Former Iranian-Owned Boeing Aircraft Successfully Returned to the United States The Department of Justice today completed enforcement of a final order for forfeiture of a U.S.-manufactured Boeing 747 cargo plane, previously owned by Mahan Air, a sanctioned Iranian airline affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp-Qods Force (IRGC-QF), a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). On Feb. 11, the government of Argentina transferred physical custody of the aircraft to the United States pursuant to the final order of forfeiture, which was issued by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on May 3, 2023, which rests all right, title, and interest in the aircraft in the United States of America. The Boeing 747 cargo plane arrived in the Southern District of Florida where it will be prepared for disposition. The seized American-built aircraft was transferred by a sanctioned Iranian airline in a transaction that violated U.S. export control laws and directly benefited the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is a designated terrorist organization, said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Departments National Security Division. The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that the full force of U.S. laws deny hostile state actors the means to engage in malign activities that threaten our national security. Mahan Air known to ferry weapons and fighters for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Hizballah violated our export restrictions by selling this airplane to a Venezuelan cargo airline. Now, its property of the United States government, said Assistant Secretary of Export Enforcements Matthew S. Axelrod. This seized airplanes arrival in the United States is a powerful example of our unceasing efforts to prevent Iran and its proxies from leveraging and profiting from U.S. technology. The United States forfeiture of the Boeing 747 cargo plane culminates over 18 months of planning, coordination, and execution by the United States government and our Argentine counterparts, said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. Bad actors both near and far are on alert that the United States will use all its tools to hold those who violate our laws to account. The successful seizure of the Boeing 747 underscores our commitment to prevent the illegal exportation of U.S. technologies and enforce U.S. export control laws. Using a whole-of-government approach, we have worked with our international partners to forfeit a plane transferred by Iranian entities in violation of U.S. sanctions and export control laws, said U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia. Foreign adversaries seeking to illegally use American-made products to further their endeavors need to know that the United States government will work with the international community to hold them accountable for their illegal conduct. The United States appreciates the collaboration with our Argentinian law enforcement and judicial partners. The transfer of this plane to U.S. custody is the final step in the long process to bring this case to its rightful conclusion, said Executive Assistant Director Larissa L. Knapp of the FBI's National Security Branch The FBI, along with our federal government and international partners, used every tool under our authorities to hold the Iranian government and their affiliates accountable for violating U.S. laws. The plane was previously detained by Argentine law enforcement. On July 19, 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a seizure warrant for the aircraft, which Argentine authorities promptly enforced. On Oct. 20, 2022, in support of its ongoing criminal investigation, the United States filed a civil forfeiture complaint alleging that the aircrafts transfer from Mahan Air to Empresa de Transporte Aereocargo del Sur, S.A. (EMTRASUR), a Venezuelan cargo airline and subsidiary of Consorcio Venezolano de Industrias Aeronauticas y Servicios Aereos, S.A (CONVIASA), a Venezuelan state-owned company, violated U.S. export control laws. As alleged, Mahan Air was subject to a Department of Commerce Temporary Denial Order, which prohibited, among other things, Mahan Air from engaging in any transactions involving any commodity exported from the United States that is subject to the Export Administration Regulations. The complaint further alleged that the unauthorized transfer of this aircraft directly benefited the IRGC-QF. According to court documents, the registered captain of the aircraft was an ex-commander for the IRGC and a shareholder and member of the board of a second sanctioned Iranian airline, Qeshm Fars Air, affiliated with the IRGC-QF. Argentinian law enforcement also recovered a Mahan Air flight log documenting the aircrafts flights after the unlawful transfer to EMTRASUR and confirmed additional violations of U.S. export control laws between February and May 2022 when EMTRASUR reexported the aircraft between Caracas, Venezuela; Tehran, Iran; and Moscow, Russia, without U.S. Government authorization. This matter is being investigated by the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Securitys Miami Field Office and the FBI Miami Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rajbir Datta for the District of Columbia, Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy R. Camacho for the Southern District of Florida, and Trial Attorney Alexander Wharton of the National Security Divisions Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are handling the seizure and investigation, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Brian Rickers and Legal Assistant Jessica McCormick. Senior Trial Attorney John Beasley and Trial Attorney Jesse Ormsby of the Justice Departments Office of International Affairs; Special Agent Adam Mastriani and Task Force Officer Robert Cunniff of the FBI Miami Field Office; the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service; and Ricardo Hernandez of the FBIs Legal Attache in Buenos Aires provided significant assistance in working with the Argentine authorities, led by Argentine Federal Judge Federico Villena and the U.S. Marshals Service to manage the difficult logistics and coordination of the physical transfer of the Boeing aircraft from Argentina to the United States. This story has been published on: 2024-02-20. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. 14 injured in Israeli drone strikes in Lebanon's southern town of Ghazieh Xinhua) 08:37, February 21, 2024 Firefighters extinguish fire caused by Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Feb. 19 (Xinhua) -- Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. Ghazieh, adjacent to the southern city of Sidon, is around 45 km from Lebanon's capital city Beirut. The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that Israeli warplanes carried out four airstrikes, including two raids targeting the industrial area behind Al-Rai private hospital and another two targeting the vicinity of a supermarket. The sources added that the two raids that targeted the industrial area destroyed a factory that manufactures and assembles electric generators. Another tire factory and ten neighboring shops were also severely damaged. The two raids in the vicinity of a supermarket destroyed an iron and aluminum manufacturing factory and damaged six commercial stores, according to the sources. The raids also damaged a house inhabited by several Syrian workers, injuring 12 of them. Meanwhile, two members of the civil defense teams were injured while extinguishing fires caused by the explosions, according to Lebanese military sources. On Monday, Israeli warplanes launched 11 raids on six targets in the border area of southern Lebanon, destroying four homes and damaging 20 others, according to Lebanese security sources. For its part, Hezbollah announced that its fighters attacked several Israeli sites, including the Al-Samaqa, Radar, and Ramtha sites, in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms, causing several casualties. The Lebanon-Israel border has been witnessing increased tension since Oct. 8, 2023, after Lebanese armed group Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets toward Israel in support of the Hamas attack on Israel the previous day, prompting Israel to respond by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. The confrontations between Hezbollah and Israel have killed 302 people on the Lebanese side, including 205 Hezbollah members and 57 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources. Smoke rises after Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) Firefighters extinguish fire caused by Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) Firefighters extinguish fire caused by Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) Firefighters extinguish fire caused by Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) Smoke rises after Israeli airstrike in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Feb. 19, 2024. Israeli warplanes on Monday afternoon hit multiple targets in the southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, injuring 14 people, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) 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 US envoy to Armenia underscores empowering women to participate meaningfully at all levels of conflict prevention RFE/RL: Armenia ready to find solutions, including in most problematic areas of Tavush Province, government says The number of Team mobile subscribers is over 1 million Over the past one year, the European Union civilian monitoring mission in Armenia (EUMA) has carried out 1,720 patrols, which contributed to peace and security in the border regions. Markus Ritter, head of the EUMA, stated this at Wednesdays event dedicated to the first anniversary of this mission. Also, Ritter expressed their deep gratitude to the EU member states for their political support, as well as to Canada for sending an expert to this mission. The recent decision to strengthen the EUMA and increase its staff to 209 reaffirms the success and determination of this mission to assist stability and peace, Ritter added. Despite the difficult operational situation, the EUMA plays an important stabilizing role in the border regions, contributing to the de-escalation of the tense situation and reducing the number of incidents, he emphasized. In addition, Ritter thanked Armenia for its generous support and constructive engagement. He stressed the professional level of his staff, noting that although they work far from their homes and families, their dedication has greatly contributed to the success of this mission. Given the current context of uncertainty, they remain committed to their mandate as an impartial payer in support of the EU's efforts towards settlement in this region, Ritter concluded. The delimitation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border should be based on the maps of the last period of the USSR. The Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, Armen Grigoryan, told this to reporters Wednesday. He reminded that the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan had agreed on October 6, 2022 in Prague to mutually recognize the territorial integrity based on the Almaty declaration of 1991. According to Grigoryan, this declaration states that at the time of the collapse of the USSR, administrative borders (actually, according to the declaration, the "existing borders," which is not the same thing) are recognized as interstate borders. "This means that there was a border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which was recognized as international by the Almaty declaration, and it should be restored based on the latest maps from the time of the USSR. This is a problem, and we want to reach an agreement with Azerbaijan on it. We are sure that it is a legal approach, it does not violate any international principle and is consistent with the normalization of relations. Discussions are ongoing, and I am confident that we will eventually reach an agreement. Historical maps are not maps from a professional point of view. And in general, the question arises: how far back in history can you go, reach the Roman Empire? Such discussions are unacceptable for us. We insist that the maps of the USSR should be used," said Grigoryan. Responding to the question about the regress in the proposals for the peace agreement, Grigoryan said that it is preserved in the latest amendments transferred from Azerbaijan. "There may be progress and regress in the process, but we are committed to the peace agenda, and in this regard, the peace agreement is a priority for us. Let's hope that the [next] meeting of foreign ministers and deputy prime ministers [of Armenia and Azerbaijan] will provide an opportunity for progress," said the secretary of the Security Council of Armenia. 08:30 The Seattle police officer who struck and killed Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula while responding to an overdose call, will not face any criminal charges due to lack of 'sufficient' evidence, authorities said. On Wednesday, the King County Prosecutor's Office said they will not move forward with criminal charges against Seattle Police Officer Kevin Dave, FOX13 Seattle reported. In a statement released Wednesday, the King County Prosecuting Attorney said, "Kandula's death is heartbreaking and impacted communities in King County and across the world." Kandula, 23, was struck by a police vehicle driven by Officer Dave when she was crossing a street in Seattle on January 23. He was driving 74 mph (more than 119 kmh) on the way to a report of a drug overdose call. Kandula was thrown 100 feet when she was struck by the speeding police patrol vehicle. In bodycam footage released by the Seattle Police Department, Officer Daniel Auderer laughed about the deadly crash and dismissed any implication Dave might be at fault or that a criminal investigation was necessary. King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion said that she believes they lack the evidence to prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt, the report added. "It is the responsibility of the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office to review all available evidence relating to the case involving Seattle Police Officer Kevin Dave and the January 2023 collision death of Jaahnavi Kandula. After staffing this case with senior deputy prosecuting attorneys and office leadership, I have determined that we lack sufficient evidence under Washington State law to prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt." The statement also said that the prosecutor's office also finds the comments made by Seattle Police Officer Daniel Auderer, recorded on his body-worn video, 'appalling and deeply troubling'. Auderer, who was not involved in the January collision, was captured in the video saying, 'But she is dead' and laughing while on the phone. "She was 26 anyway," Auderer said in the video. "She had limited value." "Officer Auderer's comments were also unprofessional and undermined the public's trust in the Seattle Police Department and law enforcement in general," said Manion. "As egregious as Officer Auderer's comments are, they do not change the PAO's legal analysis into the conduct of Officer Dave. It is the Office of Police Accountability that bears the responsibility of disciplinary investigation and proceedings relating to Officer Auderer's comment, not the PAO." Auderer was pulled from patrol in September 2023 and reassigned to a 'non-operational position'. Auderer could still be fired after the fallout of his insensitive comments captured on bodycam. Auderer's chain of command and the Office of Police Accountability (OPA) found he acted unprofessionally. For that, he faces the highest disciplinary range of nearly two weeks suspension up to termination, according to a disciplinary action report. Before a final disciplinary decision, Auderer will have the chance to meet with Police Chief Adrian Diaz to disagree. His disciplinary hearing is scheduled for March 4, K5 News reported. Seattle local media reported that speed was the cause of the collision, as the speed at which Dave was travelling did 'not allow (Kandula) or him sufficient time to detect, address and avoid a hazard that presented itself'. Dave was responding to a 'priority one' call at the request of the Seattle Fire Department, according to the Seattle Police Department. According to the police report, the officer was responding to a report of a drug overdose. The officer did not have his siren activated continuously. Instead, the officer 'chirped' his siren at the intersection. He did have his emergency lights on, according to a previous statement from the police department. In a memo to Seattle police, prosecutors wrote there was not enough evidence to prove Dave showed 'conscious disregard for others safety'. A drug recognition expert responded to the scene and found no impairment in the officer. Kandula was a graduate student at Northeastern University at the Seattle campus. The university said in January 2023 that they would award her degree posthumously and present it to her family. -- PTI Shandong strike late in Asian Champions League Zhunyi Gao scores as Shandong storm into an early lead on the night. Photo: AFP China's Shandong Taishan scored a dramatic last-minute goal to move into the Asian Champions League quarter-finals after beating Japan's Kawasaki Frontale 4-2 for a 6-5 aggregate victory on Tuesday. Brazilian Jadson hooked the ball home in the seventh minute of added time to send the Chinese side into a last-eight showdown with either Thailand's Bangkok United or Japan's Yokohama F-Marinos. Jeonbuk also advanced to the quarter-finals with a 3-1 aggregate win over fellow South Koreans Pohang Steelers after a 1-1 draw in the second leg. Jeonbuk's next opponents will be either Japan's Ventforet Kofu or another South Korean side, K-League champions Ulsan. Kawasaki beat Shandong 3-2 in last week's first leg but the Chinese side roared out of the blocks with two early goals to take control of the return fixture in Japan. Kawasaki hit back with goals either side of half-time before Brazilian Cryzan levelled the tie again with just over 15 minutes remaining. Jadson then settled a madcap game deep into injury time to send the last Chinese team still in the competition through to the last eight. (AFP) LTIMindtree, a tech consulting and digital solutions company, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Greece-based insurance company Eurolife FFH, as part of its efforts to promote widespread adoption of AI in India and Europe. The MoU, signed in the presence of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, outlines plans for Eurolife FFH to establish a generative AI and digital hub in Athens, focusing on innovative solutions for the insurance sector in Greece. LTIMindtree, a Larsen & Toubro Group company, will contribute deep domain expertise and support from its dedicated facilities in Poland and Mumbai. Under this partnership, professionals from both companies will undergo specialized training in generative AI and digital transformation to develop cutting-edge products and services. The collaboration aims to transcend borders and algorithms, shaping the future landscape of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. The multi-million-dollar partnership is expected to facilitate the widespread adoption of AI and digital solutions across various industries, including insurance, banking, shipping, and manufacturing. Eurolife FFH's CEO, Alexandros Sarrigeorgiou, sees this collaboration as a step toward a future where generative AI and digital innovation drive business success and enhance customer experiences. Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member of LTIMindtree, highlights the merging of LTIMindtrees innovation capabilities with Eurolife FFHs domain expertise, creating a platform for accelerated adoption of new technologies. The collaboration aims to address the industrys challenges and set new benchmarks in domestic and international markets. ATK New Delhi [India], February 21: The Schengen area, consisting of 27 European countries, is one of the world's most widely visited tourist destinations. Apart from the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, what makes Schengen a hot pick among travellers is the fact that these countries have abolished mutual borders. The border-free Schengen area offers tourists free movement. People planning to visit this area often question if they need travel insurance to apply for its Visa. If you have a similar question, read on to find the answer. Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa: A Must Yes, you need travel insurance for a Schengen visa. If you don't have a travel insurance policy in tune with the standards set by Schengen countries, your visa application will get rejected. Schengen countries have made travel insurance mandatory to safeguard tourists financially against any medical emergencies and untoward incidents. Requirements for Travel Insurance to Obtain a Schengen Visa Not any travel insurance can help you get a Schengen Visa. Your travel insurance policy needs to meet certain requirements. These include: * The sum insured offered by the policy should be a minimum of 30,000 euros * It should be valid in all 27 countries in the Schengen area * The validity of travel insurance should be for the entire duration of your time in Europe How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for a Schengen Visa? The cost of travel insurance for Schengen Visa isn't fixed and depends on various factors. These include: * Your age Your age is vital in determining the premium you must pay to obtain travel insurance for a Schengen Visa. The older you are, the more you need to pay for insurance and vice versa. As we age, the likelihood of experiencing health concerns rises. This translates to a higher potential for needing medical attention while travelling, which insurance companies see as a greater risk. To cover this risk, they set a high premium. * Trip duration Another essential consideration is the trip duration. Usually, insurance companies offering travel insurance for the Schengen zone calculate the cost on a daily basis. This implies that the longer your stay is, the higher the policy price. Longer stays translate to a greater window for potential mishaps, which is why your insurer charges higher premiums. Importance of Travel Insurance Besides being mandatory, travel insurance can help you in several ways during your visit to Schengen nations. These include: * Coverage for Healthcare costs Healthcare costs are high in Schengen countries. Travel insurance can help offset high medical expenses in the event of hospitalisation because of illness, accident, or injuries. Paying them from your pocket can disrupt your finances and throw your travel plans in disarray. * Emergency Assistance Services In case of an emergency, you might need services such as medical evacuation and repatriation, which can be crucial in case of serious illness or injury. This requires transportation to another medical facility or back to your home country and can be an expensive affair. A travel insurance policy can help you meet the cost of such services. * Costs for Trip Cancellation and lost baggage A travel insurance policy can reimburse you for non-refundable trip costs if your trip gets cancelled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances. That's not all. You will also be reimbursed for lost or stolen baggage and important documents such as passports. How You Can Purchase Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa? You can purchase travel insurance for Schengen Visa through: * Travel insurance providers online * Your travel agency * Local Schengen-accredited travel insurance company Irrespective of the mode of purchase, you need to remember certain things. These include: * Minimum Coverage Amount Ensure the insurance policy provides a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros for medical emergencies, including repatriation due to medical reasons. Note that this is the minimum requirement set under Schengen visa regulations. * Compare Different Travel Insurance Plans Research different insurers and compare plans based on your needs and budget. Don't simply select the cheapest option. Read online reviews and the insurer's track record before buying the policy. Familiarise yourself with the claims process to ensure smooth handling if you need to make a claim. * Read the exclusions While comparing different plans, read the exclusions. Understand what's covered in your policy and what's not. This helps avoid surprises later and unnecessary stress. If you are unsure about something, get it cleared beforehand. * Disclose pre-existing ailments While buying travel insurance for Schengen Visa, disclose any pre-existing ailments you might have. Though this may increase the premiums for your policy, it helps avoid claim rejection later. Also, if your trip extends by any chance beyond the initial policy period, find out if you can extend the policy duration. In Conclusion Remember that travel insurance for Schengen Visa is not just about fulfilling a mandatory requirement. It's also about safeguarding your trip from unforeseen circumstances. Travel insurance gives you much-needed peace of mind and allows you to enjoy your Schengen journey to the fullest. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], February 21: DUDigital Global, a specialized provider of comprehensive Visa Application Centres and Visa services, is excited to announce its debut at SATTE 2024, Asia's leading travel and tourism exhibition. The participation follows DUDigital's continuing efforts to reinforce their presence in the Indian and global market. SATTE 2024 is scheduled to be held in Greater Noida, India, from February 22 to 25, 2024. Speaking about the association, Shivaz Rai, Non-Executive Director at DUDigital Global said, "Trade events such as SATTE play a pivotal role in deepening our understanding of the intricacies within one of our primary source markets. We are thrilled that our inaugural collaboration provides us with the opportunity to highlight our exceptional visas, global company formation and PR & immigration services to the Indian market. Anticipating the chance to forge new relationships, we look forward to introducing the community to DUDigital's distinctive offerings." DUDigital Global functions as an intermediary between visa applicants and respective embassies, ensuring a seamless human interface. With over 15 years of expertise, the company has established a presence in more than 35 centers across various countries. To date, DUDigital has successfully processed over 5 million applications and envisions expanding to over 100 centers nationwide within the next two years. DUDigital specializes in comprehensive Visa Application Centres and Visa Services, streamlining processes for visa, passport, identity management, and citizen services. As a dedicated intermediary, we facilitate seamless interactions between visa applicants and embassy processing units, ensuring a smooth interface. Our commitment expands to Citizenship/Residency and PR by Investment programs, collaborating with Migrate World for exclusive opportunities across the globe. DUDigital is also a trustworthy partner for Company Formation in UAE, offering expert assistance in establishing and managing businesses. Our services cover the entire company formation process, ensuring a hassle-free experience. (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) Alia dropped a clip from the movie on her Instagram Story and wrote, "10yearsofHighway". The film starred Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda in the lead roles. Randeep played the role of a kidnapper Mahabir, who kidnaps Veera, the character played by Alia Bhatt. The film explored many themes like childhood sexual harassment and Stockholm syndrome, a psychological condition in which the victim develops strong emotional feelings for the kidnapper/abuser. The film was well-received by the audience and Imtiaz was praised for his direction and the story. The lead pair also won critical acclaim for their performances. Recently, Alia Bhatt, who is an executive producer on 'Poacher' unveiled the trailer of the upcoming crime series. Meanwhile, on the acting front, Alia is busy shooting for Vasan Bala's 'Jigra'. Apart from this, Alia will also be seen in director Farhan Akhtar's film 'Jee Le Zaraa' alongside Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif. (ANI) "We are definitely going to win more than 10 (Lok Sabha) seats in Telangana, I can say this with a full guarantee. I can say with confidence that the people of Telangana have accepted the 'Modi Guarantee' and they have trust in it too," Goa CM told reporters. Earlier on February 11, Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Telangana unit announced 'Vijaya Sankalpa Yatra 'that will cover five regions in the state ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The yatra commenced on February 20 and will culminate on March 1, the BJP said. Telangana BJP chief and Union Minister G Kishan Reddy said that through the Yatra, the party will reach one crore people. "Vijay Sankalp Yatra will pass through all 17 parliament constituencies in the state. 33 districts and more than one crore people will be outreached," Kishan Reddy told ANI. He said that the BJP will bag seats in double digits in the state in the upcoming Lok Sabha election. "We'll seek their support for our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. In Telangana, the BJP is contesting to win the election, including the Hyderabad seat of Asaduddin Owaisi. Our seats tally in Telangana will be in double digits," Reddy said. There are 17 Lok Sabha constituencies in Telangana. The 17 constituencies in Telangana are Adilabad, Bhuvanagiri, Chevella, Hyderabad, Karimnagar, Khammam, Mahabubabad, Mahabubnagar, Malkajgiri, Medak, Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda, Nizamabad, Peddapalle, Secunderabad, Warangal and Zahirabad. In the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the BRS won nine of 17 seats, while BJP and Congress bagged four and three seats respectively. The Lok Sabha polls are expected to be held in April-May this year. (ANI) Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief & Former Chief Minister, N Chandrababu Naidu Strongly condemned the attack on the Eenadu office allegedly by the (Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party) YSRCP Activists, in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, stating that Jagan Mohan Reddy is indulging in rabble-rousing. Taking to X, N Chandrababu Naidu said that this attack follows the recent barbaric act where a photographer and journalist of Andhra Jyothy and TV5 were brutally attacked causing serious injuries. "With a massive defeat looking imminent, @ysjaganis rabble-rousing his followers and instigating them to attack the Press and party workers from the Opposition. These acts of violence, or rather, government-sponsored terrorism is a last-ditch effort to create fear amongst people as the state goes for election in 50 days. Andhra Pradesh is witnessing a complete law and order breakdown that has never happened before.," wrote the former CM. Earlier, the vandals targeted the Eenadu office, breaking doors and wreaking havoc on computers and glass panels. Mirrors and furniture were not spared in the rampage. The chaos persisted for an hour before the police intervened to restore order. The Somishetti Complex, housing various shops, witnessed panic among shop owners as the situation unfolded. This attack follows the publication of an article exposing alleged land grabbing by Panyam MLA Katasani Rambhupal Reddy. Alleged YSRCP activists expressed their anger, claiming false articles are being written to tarnish the reputation of their leader. In response, journalists are calling for action against leaders who suppress the freedom of the media in a democratic society. They argue that such incidents jeopardize the principles of democracy and hinder the free flow of information. The call for accountability resonates amid concerns about the safety and freedom of the press in the region. Meanwhile, TDP National General Secretary, Nara Lokesh, strongly condemned the alleged attack by YSRCP activists on ABN Andhrajyothy photographer Srikrishna at CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's Saddam public meeting in Anantapur on Tuesday. He questioned whether it is forbidden to take photos at the Siddam meeting, calling the incident a factional attack by Jagan Reddy on the media. He stated, "As the owner of a newspaper and channel, Jagan Reddy's encouragement of such attacks puts all those working in his organization at risk." Adding to the X he wrote, "Jagan Kalakeya's army is targeting the media. Andhra Jyoti tried to kill the photographer in the Anantapur assembly. Now at the same time, Panyam MLA Katasani Rambhupal Reddy unleashed Vaikapa rowdies on the Kurnool office today. Widespread attacks on the office of a leading daily newspaper like Eenadu, which provides impartial information, is the height of the brutal regime in the state. I strongly condemn the attacks of the psycho Jagan faction on the media which is the pillar of democracy." (ANI) The Kerala High Court on Tuesday ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the suspicious death of a minor girl in Thiruvananthapuram in March last year. The Kerala HC's order comes after eight months of police inquiries that couldn't pinpoint the accused. Justice Bechu Kurian Joseph's bench ordered a CBI inquiry after the mother of the deceased approached the High Court. The 13-year-old girl was found unconscious on March 29, 2023, in the bathroom of her residence located in the police quarters. She was rushed to the Medical College for treatment but unfortunately, she died on April 1, 2023. The post-mortem report stated the cause of death as intracranial haemorrhage. It was also found that the girl had been subjected to continuous acts of sexual abuse through vaginal and anal penetrations. The case was initially investigated by the Museum Police under Section 174/CrPC. Based on the post-mortem report on April 2, 2023, another crime was registered on April 12, 2023, at the Museum Police station under Sections 376 DA, 376E, and 377 of the IPC, and Section 6 of the POCSO Act, 2012. After a brief period, the investigation was later transferred to the District Crime Branch. The petitioner, the mother of the deceased, alleged that the investigating team has not been able to make progress considering the seriousness of the crime. She filed a writ petition for a CBI probe in the Kerala High Court, alleging that higher officials are trying to cover up the case because the minor was found in the police quarters. She informed the court that the police didn't question her daughter's friends well. Considering these factors, the High Court ordered a CBI probe. (ANI) Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupendra Yadav on Wednesday said that he will visit the families of victims of recent attacks by wild elephants in Kerala's Wayanad district. "I'm going to Wayanad. We came to know that there is an animal-human conflict, especially in Wayanad and the border of Bandipur and Wayanad," Minister Yadav said while speaking to reporters outside Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. "The situation is very grave. I called senior scientists from WII, and ministry and state officials. I will go and meet the victims," he added. On providing compensation to the victims, Yadav said, "We have been releasing funds from the central ministry. We would be sympathetic towards animals and also use the technology vigilantly. We will make sure that the compensation provided by the central government reaches the victims." Earlier this week, Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi abruptly halted his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Varanasi, and left for his constituency, prompted by public protest over the deaths of residents in wild elephant attacks. He visited the homes of the families and interacted with them. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan also visited the families of the victims. During his visit, a memorandum signed by the residents and demanding protection from wild animal attacks was handed over to him. The governor has assured possible action on the same. He assured residents of Wayanad that he will take up the issue regarding frequent wild elephant attacks in the region with the state and central governments. According to Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, the incidents of attacks happened when the elephant ventured into a residential area near Mananthavady. After the incident, the Kerala government announced Rs 10 lakh in compensation and also assured a job to one of the family members of the deceased. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed officials to hold a high-level meeting to discuss the issues related to wildlife attacks in Wayanad. The situation remains tense in Wayanad as authorities grapple with the increasing frequency of wildlife-related incidents. On February 19, two persons were arrested in Pulpally following incidents of violence after three back-to-back deaths caused by wild elephant attacks. (ANI) The Delhi High Court on Tuesday issued a notice to Delhi Police on a plea filed by gangster Yogesh alias Tunda, seeking six hours of custody parole for his marriage. Tunda, a member of the Gogi Gang, is one of the accused in the murder of rival gang leader Tillu Tajpuria in the Tihar Jail in May last year. He is also accused in a case lodged under MCOCA in 2018. Justice Amit Mahajan issued notice to the Delhi Police for its response and listed the matter for further hearing on March 1. His earlier application for custody parole and subsequent interim bail was dismissed by the Special Judge (MCOCA) on January 22. Advocate Virender Mual and Deepak Kumar have moved a petition on his behalf challenging the trial court order dismissing his plea. It is stated that the order dated January 22, 2024, is illegal, perverse, arbitrary, and contrary to the fundamental rights enshrined under the articles of the Constitution of India. While dismissing the plea, Special Judge (MCOCA) Chanderjit Singh held that the right to procreation is not absolute and necessitates a contractual examination. It was also held that it is not an irrefutable right. The court had also considered the previous conduct of the accused and the status report filed by Delhi Police. The court noted that the previous conduct of the accused regarding the forging of documents for bail has also been reported. "The report also states that the accused committed a murder while in custody. Therefore, in view of the above discussion, the application seeking custody bail and consequent interim bail is dismissed," the court said in the order of January 22, 2024. It was further reported that earlier another bail application was filed by forging a COVID-positive certificate, claiming that the father of the accused had caught COVID. The Delhi police had filed a status report and stated that this crime syndicate has 60 cases against it. The members of this organized crime syndicate had a record of escaping from police custody. "Accused is one of the assailants who had committed a murder in jail as well. There is a strong apprehension that the accused can jump bail if this application is accepted," Delhi police had said. It was submitted by the counsels for accused Yogesh that the effect of fixing the marriage has been verified, which is reflected in the report. It was also submitted that custody parole for six hours is granted and after that, interim bail for whatever period the court finds fit may be granted. On the other hand, while opposing the plea, the prosecution submitted that there is a strong apprehension that the accused will flee from the process of law. It was submitted that earlier, an attempt was also made to procure interim bail by forging documents. The present application seems like another attempt in a similar vein by the accused. The application should be dismissed, argued the prosecution. The special judge (MCOCA) had said in the order that the accused was arrested in this case on August 4, 2018. It has further been reported that the mother of the girl stated that she was told about a week ago about the proposed marriage of Yogesh and her daughter. "It implies that this marriage has been fixed while the accused is in custody and was not fixed prior to his being in custody," the court said. It further said that the court is mindful of the order of the High Court of Delhi in Kundan Singh v State, wherein, the Hon'ble High Court of Delhi has adjudicated upon the aspect of convict having the right to procreate. "The said case is distinguishable from the contention raised in the present application. Firstly, the applicant in the said case was convicted, whereas, the applicant in the present case is an under-trial," the court had observed. (ANI) The Congress chief of West Bengal, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, condemned BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday for allegedly making racial comments about a Sikh IPS officer and demanded that the leader make a public apology. "The way the leaders of the BJP party in Bengal have insulted a police officer, Special Superintendent, Intelligence Branch, IPS Jaspeet Singh, by calling him a Khalistani, I strongly condemn it. Perhaps these people are not aware of the culture of Bengal, the centuries-old deep relationship between the Sikh community and the Bengali people in Bengal. I can understand the pain that IPS Jaspeet Singh must be feeling humiliated after such a comment. I understand his pain. With the police of Bengal, our Congress party, we also bring many demands and do criticize, but this does not mean that we should make any comment against a police officer taking the caste community and insulting them with it. I strongly condemn this incident and I also want to say that the way BJP leaders have spoken harshly, uttered disgusting words, he should openly apologize in front of the common people," he told ANI. West Bengal police on Tuesday claimed that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari hurled a 'Khalistani' slur at a Sikh police officer. In a series of posts on 'X', the West Bengal Police expressed outrage and labelled the comment by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari as malicious, racial, communally inciting and a criminal act. The police condemned the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual's religious identity and added that stern legal action is being initiated. "We, the West Bengal Police fraternity, are outraged to share this video, where one of our own officers was called 'Khalistani' by the state's Leader of the Opposition. His 'fault': he is both a proud Sikh, and a capable police officer who was trying to enforce the law...This comment is as much malicious and racial as it is communally inciting. It is a criminal act. We unequivocally condemn the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual's religious identity and beliefs aimed to incite people to take to violence and break the law... Stern legal action is being initiated," the police said in a series of posts on 'X'. Responding to the allegation Suvendu Adhikari has challenged the ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. "BJP LoP Suvendu Adhikari dares ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. WB Police, Mamata Banerjee's only line of defence, is crumbling. They should now retreat to their barracks," said BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya in a post on X. Meanwhile, this incident has elicited a strong reaction from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who said that BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. "The BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per BJP every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS & SISTERS, revered for their SACRIFICES and UNWAVERING DETERMINATION to our nation. We stand firm in protecting Bengal's social harmony and will take stern lawful measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt it," she said in a post on 'X'. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, too, strongly condemned the incident, saying that BJP's poison of hatred has blinded them so much that they can neither see a farmer, a jawan or respect an officer in khaki. "The poison spread by the BJP's 'cultivation of hatred' has tainted our 'political marketplace.' People who have been blinded by this poison are neither able to see the farmers, nor the soldiers, nor the respect for khaki. The nation stands with IPS Jaspreet Singh," he said in a post on 'X'. According to ADG (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar, the incident took place when a police force was deployed to enforce Section 144 in Dhamakhali this morning. The force was led by IPS Jaspeet Singh, SSP Intelligence Branch. Several MLAs, including West Bengal Opposition Leader Subhendu Adhikari, were present in Dhamakhali (and were on their way to Sandeshkhali). During an altercation with a police officer, Subhendu Adhikari referred to the officer as a Khalisthani. "As you all know we had a police force to enforce section 144 in Dhamakhali this morning. It was headed by IPS Jaspeet Singh, SSP Intelligence Branch. There are several MLAs including West Bengal Opposition Leader Subhendu Adhikari in Dhamakhali. There was an altercation with the police officer during which Subhendu Adhikari called the police officer a Khalisthani, which is never befitting of a political leader. We strongly protest against it. We will take legal action against him for this serious comment," ADG Sarkar said. The Sandeshkhali area has been witnessing unrest for over 10 days as women protestors are seeking justice against alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his aides. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari has said that the change in the result of Chandigarh Mayor Elections by the Supreme Court indicates that the democracy and Constitution are in danger in the country. The Congress leader made the remark while speaking to ANI in the state capital Bhopal on Wednesday and also raised concerns about the election system in the country. "Time has come when the patriots should worry about the election system in the country. Of those who believe in the country's constitution and democracy, 70 percent of them question EVM and the election system. I would like to thank the Supreme Court which imposed the allegation on the government murder of the country's democracy on the way the mayor's election was looted in Chandigarh. The change in the result by the Supreme Court indicates that democracy and the Constitution are in danger," Patwari said. "I request the 70 percent of the common people of the country who are expressing concern over the electoral system of democracy to come out on the streets. We all should criticise the government," he added. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra had quashed the decision by Returning Officer Anil Masih, who declared BJP candidate Manoj Kumar Sonkar as Chandigarh Mayor on January 30. The order of the apex court came as it found that the Returning Officer had deliberately defaced eight ballots that were cast in favour of Kuldeep Kumar so as to make them invalid. The Supreme Court further directed the Registrar Judicial to issue notice to Anil Masih for perjury proceedings under Section 340 CrPC for making a false statement before the court that the mark was made on eight ballots as they were defaced. The bench slammed Masih saying he had "unlawfully altered the course of the mayoral election". Meanwhile, reacting to farmers' protest, the Congress leader targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying he promised to double the minimum support price of farmers during 2014 elections but did not fulfil it. "The Prime Minister of our country had said in the 2014 elections that what mistake has the farmer made? Why should they not get the benefit of their crop? He had said that the support price of crops should be doubled. Five years passed, nothing was done. There were movements in the country several times, talks were held with the government to implement the MSP but not implemented," Patwari said. "Later, the government brought three black farm laws and a movement against it lasted for one and a half years. After that the Prime Minister of the country apologised and said that to implement the Minimum Support Price very soon. Then again, three and a half years have passed and the government and the Prime Minister have not spoken a single word. Now when the farmers say to do what promised, then the Prime Minister uses weapons on them. They prepare the battlefield and torture them. Over 700 farmers had died earlier, now the government is going to start the same serial killing again," the Congress leader alleged. (ANI) Delhi Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, Gopal Rai on Wednesday strongly condemned BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari for the alleged humiliation of a Sikh IPS officer in West Bengal by labelling him a Khalistani. He emphasised that no one should be insulted because of their caste, religion, area, or language. Rai also criticized the BJP leaders for their apparent disregard for constitutional boundaries and demanded a public apology for their actions. "The way BJP leaders humiliated an IPS officer on duty in West Bengal by calling him Khalistani is not acceptable. In the entire country, whoever believes in the unity of the country also believes that to strengthen this country, no one should be humiliated on caste, religion, region or linguistic ground...The way the BJP leader publicly humiliated him (IPS officer) shows how hate is rooted in them...They (BJP leaders) are issuing certificates to everyone and have crossed all the boundaries of the constitution... AAP condemns this act in strong words and we ask the BJP to issue a public apology," Delhi minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Gopal Rai said. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also condemned Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari for allegedly calling a Sikh IPS officer 'Khalistani ' and demanded the BJP party apologize to the Punjabis. "It is highly condemnable for a BJP leader to call a Sikh IPS officer from Bengal a traitor. Perhaps the BJP does not know that the Punjabis have made the most sacrifices to liberate the country and to maintain its freedom till date. The BJP should apologize to the Punjabis," Bhagwant Mann said in a post in 'X'. West Bengal police on Tuesday claimed that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari hurled a 'Khalistani' slur at a Sikh police officer. In a series of posts on 'X', the West Bengal Police expressed outrage and labelled the comment by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari as malicious, racial, communally inciting and a criminal act. The police condemned the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual's religious identity and added that stern legal action is being initiated. "We, the West Bengal Police fraternity, are outraged to share this video, where one of our own officers was called 'Khalistani' by the state's Leader of the Opposition. His 'fault': he is both a proud Sikh, and a capable police officer who was trying to enforce the law...This comment is as much malicious and racial as it is communally inciting. It is a criminal act. We unequivocally condemn the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual's religious identity and beliefs aimed to incite people to take to violence and break the law... Stern legal action is being initiated," the police said in a series of posts on 'X'. Responding to the allegation Suvendu Adhikari has challenged the ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. "BJP LoP Suvendu Adhikari dares ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. WB Police, Mamata Banerjee's only line of defence, is crumbling. They should now retreat to their barracks," said BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya in a post on X. Meanwhile, this incident has elicited a strong reaction from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who said that BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. "The BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per BJP every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS & SISTERS, revered for their SACRIFICES and UNWAVERING DETERMINATION to our nation. We stand firm in protecting Bengal's social harmony and will take stern lawful measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt it," she said in a post on 'X'. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, too, strongly condemned the incident, saying that BJP's poison of hatred has blinded them so much that they can neither see a farmer, a jawan or respect an officer in khaki. "The poison spread by the BJP's 'cultivation of hatred' has tainted our 'political marketplace.' People who have been blinded by this poison are neither able to see the farmers, nor the soldiers, nor the respect for khaki. The nation stands with IPS Jaspreet Singh," he said in a post on 'X'. According to ADG (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar, the incident took place when a police force was deployed to enforce Section 144 in Dhamakhali. The force was led by IPS Jaspeet Singh, SSP Intelligence Branch. Several MLAs, including West Bengal Opposition Leader Subhendu Adhikari, were present in Dhamakhali (and were on their way to Sandeshkhali). During an altercation with a police officer, Subhendu Adhikari referred to the officer as a Khalisthani. "As you all know we had a police force to enforce section 144 in Dhamakhali this morning. It was headed by IPS Jaspeet Singh, SSP Intelligence Branch. There are several MLAs including West Bengal Opposition Leader Subhendu Adhikari in Dhamakhali. There was an altercation with the police officer during which Subhendu Adhikari called the police officer a Khalisthani, which is never befitting of a political leader. We strongly protest against it. We will take legal action against him for this serious comment," ADG Sarkar said. The BJP leader, along with other BJP MLAs, were trying to enter Sandeshkhali village in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. The Sandeshkhali area has been experiencing turmoil for more than a week, with women demonstrators demanding justice for alleged abuses perpetrated by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates. (ANI) Fali Sam Nariman, one of India's most distinguished legal luminaries, breathed his last on Wednesday leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the annals of Indian jurisprudence. He was 95 years old. The passing of Fali S Nariman led to an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from countless people from the legal community and political leaders. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolence on social media platform X. "Among the wisest experts on our Constitution, he was also a globally respected jurist. He served the nation in various roles, including as a member of the Rajya Sabha, with equal dedication," President Murmu said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X, "Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace". On Wednesday, before the beginning of the court proceedings, Chief Justice of India DY Chandradhud said, "We mourn the sad demise and passing away of Fali Nariman. He was a great giant of an intellectual. It's very sad". Attorney General R Venkataramani, who was present in the courtroom, agreed with the CJI saying, "It is indeed difficult news to swallow". Justice NV Ramana, former Chief Justice of India also issued a statement expressing condolence, "Shri Nariman witnessed our nation's many a trials and tribulations, both before and after independence and fought for upholding Constitutional values till his last breath". Nariman was born on January 10, 1929, in Rangoon, Burma (now Myanmar), to Parsi parents Sam Bariyamji Nariman and Banoo Nariman. He enrolled as an advocate of the Bombay High Court in November 1950. Nariman's illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which he made significant contributions to the evolution of Indian constitutional law. In the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case, Nariman assisted Nani Palkhivala who represented the petitioner. The 1973 historic judgment by the Supreme Court propounded the Basic Structure doctrine. Nariman was appointed Additional Solicitor General of India in May 1972 but resigned from the post a day after the imposition of the Emergency in 1975 in protest against the Indira Gandhi government decision. More recently, Nariman was part of the legal team that fought against the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act, which sought to replace the Collegium System. The Supreme Court struck down the NJAC Act, upholding the Collegium System for the appointment of judges in India's higher judiciary. Beyond his courtroom prowess, Nariman was a prolific writer, with several authoritative works on constitutional law to his name. He authored 'India's Legal System: Can it be Saved?' which was published in 2006. In 2010, he published his autobiography 'Before Memory Fades... An Autobiography'. In the book he wrote, "I have lived and flourished in a secular India. In the fullness of time if God wills, I would also like to die in a secular India." He later published 'The State of the Nation' and 'God Save the Hon'ble Supreme Court'. From defending civil liberties to championing the cause of judicial independence, Nariman fearlessly fought for justice and constitutional values throughout his career. Recently in December last year, Nariman reacted sharply to the Supreme Court's verdict upholding the abrogation of Article 370 which had conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. "Politically, it is a good thing that a temporary provision in India's Constitution (Article 370) has ceased to be operative...It has facilitated a complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the Union of India. If that was all that had happened, the unanimous judgment would have been and should have been welcomed. But this is not all that happened," he said. "What was actually done by the Centre was, in my view, not according to the provisions of the Constitution, nor in accordance with well-settled principles of federalism, a basic feature of the Constitution as was held in a 1994 judgment of a Constitution Bench of nine judges," Nariman said. Nariman was awarded by the President of India in January 1991 the Padma Bhushan "in recognition of distinguished service in the field of jurisprudence." Later in 2007, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in recognition of "exceptional and distinguished services in the field of Public Affairs." Nariman is survived by his son and former Supreme Court judge Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman and daughter Anaheeta F Nariman. His wife Bapsi F Nariman passed away in 2020. (ANI) The GIDH is a WHO managed network which was unanimously adopted by all G20 countries, invited countries and international organizations and collectively launched as a key deliverable of India's G20 Presidency during the Health Ministers' Meeting in Gandhinagar, Gujarat on August 19, 2023. As a WHO Managed Network ("Network of Networks"), GIDH aims to consolidate and amplify recent and past gains in global digital health while strengthening mutual accountability, and serving as a vehicle for implementing the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020 - 2025, while enhancing the impact of future investments. Addressing the session, Minister Mandaviya said, "Our collaboration with the WHO on the GIDH is a testament of our shared commitment towards transforming the digital health ecosystem. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the New Delhi Leaders' Declaration of the G20 Summit also welcomed the establishment of GIDH within the framework of the WHO." Mandaviya said that "the GIDH will allow the democratization of digital health technologies in national digital health transformation particularly the Global South. The success of the GIDH also requires strong regional cooperation." He also urged the WHO-SEARO (Southeast Asia Region) Director to implement the GIDH in the region. The Union Health Minister highlighted "India's ground-breaking digital health transformations, particularly through the flagship Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission which promotes healthcare digitization and creates an interoperable digital ecosystem." Reiterating India's unwavering support to the GIDH for its implementation, advancement and sustainability, he urged all member countries to join hands to strengthen the global digital health framework. He said this will empower countries in their journey towards ensuring universal health coverage. GIDH is expected to do so by acting as a knowledge hub and neutral broker to align resources and efforts towards establishing digital public infrastructure for health, a critical enabler for achievement of sustainable and evidence-based national digital health transformation. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami gave appointment letters to 51 candidates selected for the post of Auditor under the Finance Department through the State Public Service Commission on Wednesday. The appointment letters were given to the candidates at an appointment letter distribution ceremony organised at the Chief Minister's residence on Wednesday. While congratulating all the newly appointed personnel, the Chief Minister said that now they are going to become a part of the Uttarakhand government and administration and said that he hopes everyone will work efficiently with dedication and hard work. Chief Minister Dhami said that our efforts to provide maximum employment opportunities to the youth of the state are slowly beginning to materialise. He expressed hope that in future more and more youth will get more employment opportunities in the state itself. Addressing the candidates, CM Dhami said, "You all are fortunate that God has allowed you to serve in a state in which there are immense possibilities for progress. Whatever work you do, do it with full honesty and dedication. Try your best to complete the work that has to be done today and never leave that work for tomorrow. Aspire to make Uttarakhand the best. Discharge your responsibility in building the state." The Chief Minister also told the candidates that out of thousands of youth of the state, they had been given this special opportunity to serve the state. "You have to set standards in your field of work. We have to aim to be disciplined and discharge our responsibilities with honesty," said CM Dhami. The Chief Minister further said that a new work culture has developed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Our government is fully committed to every section of the state and will continue to do so and expects that all of you will continue to extend your support in achieving our resolution to make Uttarakhand the best," added the Chief Minister. Meanwhile, while virtually addressing the Developed India Resolution 2024 mega exhibition program, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, "The resolution of PM Modi to make India a 'developed India' is not just a resolution but a firm belief to make India Vishva Guru." (ANI) West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar on Wednesday afternoon arrived in Sandeshkhali to take stock of the situation. The Sandeshkhali area has been witnessing unrest for over 10 days as women protestors are seeking justice against alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his aides. A large number of women in Sandeshkhali had accused Trinamool Congress strongman Sheikh Shahjahan and his supporters of "land-grab and sexually assaulting" them under coercion. Shajahan has been absconding after a mob, allegedly affiliated with him, attacked Enforcement Directorate officials who had gone to search his premises in connection with a ration scam on January 5. Meanwhile, hitting out at the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over incidents in Sandeshkhali, Union Minister of State (MoS) for Education Subhas Sarkar on Wednesday said that several Sandeshkhalis have been formed in West Bengal where human rights are being openly violated under TMC rule. Subhas Sarkar said that the incidents in Sandeshkhali have stunned the whole country. "The incident of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, has stunned everyone. The women were raped. The incident has drawn the country's attention towards West Bengal. Several such Sandeshkhalis have formed in West Bengal, where human rights are being violated," he said. Earlier, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued a notice to the West Bengal DGP directing him to submit a report within two weeks in a case where a journalist of a vernacular news channel was unlawfully detained by police in Sandeshkhali. The Commission also asked its DIG (Investigation) to find out the facts by telephone and submit his findings to the Commission within a week. The NHRC also took suo motu cognisance of a complaint that the journalist of a vernacular television news channel was unlawfully detained while covering crimes against women in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali on Monday. (ANI) Rajiv Kumar informed at a press conference in Patna on Wednesday that there are 9.26 lakh first time voters in the age group of 18-19 in the state. There are 21, 680 voters above the age of 100 years. He said out of 7.64 crore voters, there are 1.6 crore voters in the age group of 20-29. "The role of the youth is going to be very great significance in this election," the Chief Election Commissioner said. The Chief Election Commissioner also informed that there are 6.3 lakhs Persons with a disability (PWD) voters in the state. The EC also informed that there are 4 crore male crore voters while 3.6 crore voters are female. He also informed that there are 14.5 lakh senior citizen voters in the state. The CEC also informed at the press conference that the commisison held meetings with representatives of different national political parties in the run up to the general elections in the last two days. The commission said it has deleted 16.7 lakh from the electoral rolls due to death and shifting of voters to another place. "In Bihar, there are 7.64 crore voters, out of which 4 crore are male and 3.6 crore are female... 21,680 voters are above 100 years of age. 9.26 lakhs are first-time voters...," the CEC added. He also appealed people to cast their vote with out any fear at the time of voting. "I appeal to people to go to vote without any fear". The dates for the Lok Sabha elections are expected to be announced in the next month. (ANI) Coming out in support of a Sikh IPS officer who was allegedly called "Khalistani" by some BJP protestors, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said the official was just doing his duty and should not have been called 'Khalistani' just for wearing a turban. A Sikh IPS officer was deputed to Dhamakhali to prevent senior West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting restive Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district, which resulted in confrontations between protesting BJP workers and the police at Dhamakhali. "What was the fault of the officer doing his duty? Is there no Sikh regiment in the force? We respect all religions. If an officer wears a turban, how can you call him Khalistani? There are Muslim IAS, IPS, and WBCS officers; how can you call them Pakistani just because someone is a Muslim officer? I have been mocked using so many names, but I never reacted to it," the Chief Minister said. "A few people are now engaging in this. They are the biggest blot in Bengal, those who are maligning Bengal's reputation," she added. The senior police official lost his cool when some protesters allegedly called him "Khalistani." Earlier, the Chief Minister also attached a video of the verbal spat in which the police officer was seen sternly protesting against the BJP workers for labelling him "Khalistani" for wearing a turban. West Bengal police on Tuesday claimed that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari hurled a 'Khalistani' slur at a Sikh police officer. The police condemned the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual's religious identity and added that stern legal action is being initiated. In this regard, West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury also condemned BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday for allegedly making racial comments about a Sikh IPS officer and demanded that the leader make a public apology. "The way the leaders of the BJP party in Bengal have insulted a police officer, Special Superintendent, Intelligence Branch, IPS Jaspeet Singh, by calling him a Khalistani, I strongly condemn it. Perhaps these people are not aware of the culture of Bengal, the centuries-old deep relationship between the Sikh community and the Bengali people in Bengal," he said. Responding to the allegations, Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari has challenged the ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. Adhikari was also accompanied by BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who claimed that the police officer wasn't fulfilling his duties. Meanwhile, the West Bengal BJP has said that this incident is being used as a ploy to divert attention from the incidents happening in Sandeshkhali. "It is a shame that the WB Police is willing to be a political pawn in the hands of Mamata Banerjee and is dragging in religion. Here is a video and images to remind how disrespectful WB Police has been towards the Sikhs. You have pulled off turbans and dragged Sikh protestors on the streets, for taking on Mamata Banerjee's decrepit administration. So don't lecture us," West Bengal BJP posted on X. The Sandeshkhali area has been witnessing unrest for over 10 days as women protestors are seeking justice against alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his aides. (ANI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu welcomed the Supreme Court decision upholding the verdict of the High Court regarding the ownership of Hotel Wildflower Hall. Expressing satisfaction with the apex court's ruling, the Chief Minister said that it safeguarded the interests of Himachal Pradesh. Attributing the decision to the meticulous efforts undertaken by the State Government in advocating its case effectively before the Apex Court, Sukhu said, "Renowned lawyer Mukul Rohatgi was engaged to ensure comprehensive representation and safeguard the State's interests in the legal battle. The outcome of this verdict reflects the government's steadfast dedication to protect the interests of Himachal Pradesh." The Oberoi Group had held possession of the prestigious property for last many years, and now the Supreme Court has ordered them to vacate it within a year. The State Government will deliberate on the future course of action regarding the property, once it gets possession, emphasizing a decision that aligns with the best interests of Himachal, said the Chief Minister. Wildflower Hall was owned by Lord Kitchener. Hotel Wildflower Hall was being run as a hotel by HP Tourism Development Corporation but a fire gutted it in 1993. Officials said it was handed over to East India Hotel (EIH) Ltd, the flagship company of the Oberoi Group, for being run by way of a joint venture but the government terminated the agreement in 2002. (ANI) According to the Indian Army, approximately 175 vehicles with more than 500 tourists got stranded at Natu La, East Sikkim on February 21 due to sudden heavy snowfall. "Troops of Trishakti Corps braving sub-zero temperatures rushed to rescue and assisted the stranded tourists. Prompt Medicare, hot refreshments, meals and safe transportation were rendered in a timely to assist the tourists reach safety," said the army. The TriShakti Corps, Indian Army while guarding the borders in Sikkim, is always prepared to assist the civil administration and people, stated the army. Earlier on February 20, in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, CRPF jawans lent a helping hand to vehicles stranded due to heavy snowfall. The region was hit by showers and snowfall, resulting in many roads, including the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, being blocked due to precipitation-triggered landslides. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said that India will persist in its role as a "Vishwa Mitra" (a global friend), fostering significant alliances to create a genuinely interconnected and fair environment for humanity worldwide. Singh made the statement while addressing a gathering at the inaugural event of the MILAN 2024 International Seminar. MILAN 2024 is the Indian Navy's largest-ever multilateral naval exercise, commencing here in Vizag with an impressive lineup of warships from Indian and foreign navies participating in the Harbour Phase. "India will continue to play the role of a "Vishwa Mitra" (a friend of the world) in forging meaningful partnerships that make our planet, a truly connected and equitable habitat for humanity as a whole," Singh said. The Defence Minister also urged the participating foreign navies in the MILAN 2024 exercise "to make the most of this wonderful opportunity, to get to know each other as well as our vibrant country, Bharat (India)." "May you all learn from each other, and of course, have a good time in the city of destiny, Vishakhapatnam," said the Minister. "While being optimistic about the shared goodness of our human race," Singh also warned that "we are also alive to the dangers lurking in shadows", and suggested, "We prefer peace and will do the utmost for its sake, but we will not shrink from countering any threat that undermines our collective well-being, piracy and trafficking included." "For example, events of the past few months in the Western Indian Ocean have brought to the fore some extremely pressing challenges in the maritime domain, ranging from attacks on merchant shipping to piracy and hijacking attempts," the Minister reminded. He further noted that "India continues its proactive engagement and has been maintaining a sustained presence in the region to ensure the safety and security of all shipping, irrespective of the flag on the ship and the nationality of the crew." "It is our steadfast resolve to be the first responder and the preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean region, and for the peace, stability, and prosperity of the wider Indo-Pacific," stressed Singh. Taking cognizance of the current scenario across the world, the Defence Minister emphasised "positive peace". "Positive peace, that we should collectively aspire to in our age of democratic and rule-based world order, where individual countries proactively collaborate to achieve shared peace and prosperity. This concept of peace goes beyond the mere absence of direct military conflict and encompasses broader notions of security, justice, and cooperation," Singh said. According to him, positive peace is the shared peace of one and all, with the cooperation of one and all. "There is no Indian peace, Australian peace, or Japanese peace, rather, it is the shared global peace. This sentiment has also been eloquently set forth by our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, when he said, 'this is not an era of war. But it is one of dialogue and diplomacy,'" Rajnath Singh added. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also inaugurated the exhibition organised in connection with Milan 2024. (ANI) The fire was reported around 6.30 PM in the evening at the plastic furniture making factory named Vaidya Industries. Five fire tenders are on the spot. Further details awaited. (ANI) Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav on Tuesday congratulated the Congress and the Samajwadi Party on the confirmation of seat sharing in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, and excluded confidence in winning the polls. The SP leader said that the party was in support of the alliance from the beginning. From the start itself, the Samajwadi Party wanted the alliance, there was a little bit of delay because BJP is in front of us. I want to congratulate the Samajwadi Party and Congress as the alliance has reached its destination. Its results will be very good and people will support us. In the coming election, people will vote for us," Dimple Yadav told ANI. Alleging that the central government and the current state government in UP have ruined the lives of women, youth, farmers and soldiers, the SP leader said that people in the state people are angry and disappointed. "There was talk of four pillars in the country; women, youth, farmers and soldiers. But no one is happy. All of them are angry and disappointed. Earlier the children of the farmers used to join the army, and the economy was good, but the Central Government for 10 years and the Government of Uttar Pradesh for about 7 years ruined them all," she said. When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remark that he spotted youths passed out drunk on the streets of Varanasi and elsewhere in Uttar Pradesh during his ongoing 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', the Samajwadi Party leader said, "The youths are unemployed, they have no work, they are desperate, their hopes are gradually decreasing, and the government is not able to provide jobs." "Some of them got jobs in the police department but that too became a subject of investigation after the paper leak incidents. The government has badly shaken both the pillars of the country, the farmers and the soldiers," she added. Earlier, in a veiled swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday claimed that during his visit to the temple town as a part of the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay yatra, he saw people lying drunk on roads. Addressing the public in Amethi, Wayanad MP said the youths of Uttar Pradesh were on a 'trip' after boozing by night. "I went to Varanasi and I saw people lying on roads drunk. The youths of Uttar Pradesh are on a trip after consuming liquor at night. On the other hand, there is the Ram Mandir which is only visited by the likes of PM Modi, Ambani and Adani. You will see all our billionaires there but not a single person from a backward class or the Dalit community," Rahul said. Meanwhile, party chief Akhilesh Yadav confirmed an alliance with the Congress, assuring that details would be revealed soon. He stated that there was no conflict between the two parties, emphasizing that all would be clarified in due course. In Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party will contest elections on 63 seats and Congress on 17 seats. "All is well that ends well. Yes, there will be an alliance. There is no conflict. Everything will be out and clear soon," Yadav stated while speaking to reporters on Wednesday. The Samajwadi Party and the Congress are partners in the INDIA bloc. The success of the seat-sharing talks between the two is crucial, especially after the failure of such talks with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has decided to contest in her state alone. (ANI) As Sandeshkhali continued to be on the boil, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday stated that it will depute its team to ascertain facts by a "spot-enquiry" into the incidents of violence in the North 24 Parganas island, a press release from the NHRC stated. The team shall be led by a Member of the Commission who shall be assisted by officers of the Commission, the NHRC added. "The NHRC has taken suo motu cognizance of print and electronic media reports that in Sandeshkhali, North 24th Paraganas, West Bengal, innocent and impoverished women have been harassed and sexually assaulted by a group of local gang of a political person, as a result of which, for last few days, local villagers have started protesting for appropriate legal action against the perpetrators of horrific crimes indulged by various goons and anti-social elements, when the local Administration failed to take appropriate legal action against the perpetrators of crime," the release said. The rights body mentioned that it has been reported that the safety and security of the women folk as well as children and aged persons have been jeopardized. It has resulted in leaving the places of abode by the women due to torture and sexual abuse that are looming large upon them, it said. The Commission has observed that the recent incidents in Sandeshkhali, as have been reported in various print and electronic media indicate prima facie violation of human rights shocking the conscience. "Therefore, it becomes imperative for it to exercise its jurisdiction under Section 12 (a) of the PHR Act, 1993 to preserve, protect and promote human rights, and take suo motu cognizance of the reported incidents of violence," it said. The NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) seeking reports within four weeks about violence that took place, as reported, in Sandeshkhali and the action taken or proposed to be taken against the perpetrators of crime, safety and other ameliorative measures taken or proposed to be taken to inspire confidence amongst the local people, including women, compensation, if any, paid or to be paid to the victims of violence. Earlier on Tuesday, the NHRC issued a notice to the DGP directing him to submit a report within two weeks in a case where a journalist of a vernacular news channel was unlawfully detained by police in Sandeshkhali. The Commission also asked its DIG (Investigation) to find out the facts by telephone and submit his findings to the Commission within a week. (ANI) CM Revanth Reddy while addressing stated that the Telangana government's policy is to promote Telangana state to compete with other states. The government will extend all kinds of support to the investors and entrepreneurs. "Irrespective of politics, former Chief Ministers- YS Rajashekhar Reddy, Chandrababu Naidu and KCR pursued the policies for Hyderabad development. My government will not compromise on the development of Hyderabad as well as Telangana State," he said He said his government will continue the good decisions taken by the previous regimes for the development of Hyderabad City. He added his government will move forward with the support of CII in creating education and employment opportunities in Telangana. The state government is ready to develop 64 ITIs as Skill Development Centers at the cost of Rs 2000 crore. Consultations with stakeholders are in progress to set up Skill Universities. The state will set up a Dry Port in Telangana soon, he said. (ANI) Raising concerns over the withdrawal of Rs 65 crore "undemocratically" from the Congress' bank accounts by the income tax department, party leader Ajay Maken said that despite the sub judice nature of the matter, the Congress party is facing an unprecedented demand of Rs 210 crore when there is a common practice for National Political Parties to pay no income tax. Highlighting that neither the Congress nor the BJP pays income tax, Maken in a post on X, said that their hopes now lie with the Judiciary. "Yesterday, the Income Tax Department mandated banks to transfer over Rs65 crores from INC India, IYC, and NSUI accounts to the government--Rs5 crores from IYC and NSUI, and Rs60.25 crores from INC, marking a concerning move by the BJP Government," he said. "Is it common for National Political Parties to pay Income Tax? No," he added. "Does the BJP pay Income Tax? No," Ajay Maken asked. He continued to ask that why is the Congress Party facing an unprecedented demand of Rs210 crores? He pointed out that this undemocratic act poses a threat to the country's multi-party system. "This situation raises a crucial question about the state of democracy. Is it under threat?, he said in his post on X. "During today's ITAT proceedings, we presented our case. The hearing is set to continue tomorrow. The funds in question were raised through grassroots efforts, including crowdfunding and membership drives by the IYC and NSUI. This situation raises a crucial question about the state of democracy. Is it under threat? Our hope now lies with the judiciary," Maken added. The hearing on Congress complaint in Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) against recovery of the outstanding tax due of Rs 65 crore from INC's account will resume on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Income Tax Department on Wednesday submitted before the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) that they acted with responsibility and their action was fully in line with the law to obtain demand drafts of Rs 65 crore from the bank accounts of Congress party. Advocate Zoheb Hossain, the counsel for the Income Tax Department, defended the decision to recover the amount and submitted that there has been a breach of rules by Congress and, in such a scenario, the entity must be treated as a normal assesse. The counsel told the Tribunal that they were ready to give an undertaking if Congress wins the case. "We are ready to give back the amount assured," he said. He submitted that on July 6, 2021, the first notice of recovery was given. He said the Congress party filed an appeal for a complete stay on October 28, 2021, but for this, they had to deposit 20 per cent of the dues as per IT Act. He said they were requested to pay 20 per cent of the demand but it was not done. "On January 9, 2023, we sent another letter seeking payment for outstanding demand. We received an email from Congress seeking an adjournment only. Over a period of four years their conduct was not to pay," he said. In the complaint, Congress said the Income Tax Department has enforced its law by encashing some of the balances lying with the banks without waiting for the outcome of the hearing scheduled before the bench. Congress appealed that the department should not proceed further till the disposal of the stay application. (ANI) Hitting out at the opposition's INDIA bloc, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda said that the opposition group consists of individuals involved in corrupt practices. Addressing the party workers here, Nadda said, "This is the alliance of corruption group." He also took a dig at Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and said that wherever Rahul takes his yatra, it is not 'Nyay or Jodo Yatra', but it's 'Anyay and Todo yatra'. Pointing to the corruption cases during Uddhav Thackeray's rule and doging of ED summons by Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal, Nadda said, "Did corruption happened in Maharashtra or not? Corruption happened during Uddhav's rule, his Home Minister remained in jail or not. Kejriwal is avoiding ED, why is he afraid?" Nadda said. Recalling the words of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1980, Nadda quoted, "Andhera Chatega, Suraj niklega aur Kamal khilega" (the darkness will end, the sun will rise, and the lotus will blossom). He asserted that today, under the leadership of Modi ji, the lotus has indeed blossomed. "Today we can say that the lotus has blossomed under the leadership of Modi ji," he said. On the party's journey, he said, "We have seen struggles, we have seen ourselves in two numbers and today we are also seen as the largest party in the world. Our responsibilities also increase. It is very important to tell that we have come out of darkness and reached light. There was a time when we were satisfied by forming 5 to 6 governments in the state. Today we are happy that in 17 states there is NDA government, Mahayuti government, 58 percent population is led by the Bharatiya Janata Party. Within 10 years Modi ji changed the definition of politics." He also pointed out that earlier the poor were cheated, but today his government gave strength to the poor and empowered women. (ANI) The United States Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, hailed the ties between New Delhi and Washington and stressed that the two nations should work more robustly on co-development and serve as a 'model' for the world. He also said that ties betwen India and the US is not merely 'additive relationship' but instead a 'multiplicative relationship'. The US envoy was speaking at the US India Business Council event in the national capital on Tuesday. Speaking at the event, Garcetti said, "Looking at the way, we are understanding each other's culture, this is more than an additive relationship, this is not India plus the US, this is India times the US...a multiplicative relationship." Explaining the difference between co-production and co-development while emphasizing the importance of aligning needs and interests, the envoy said, "We should be clear with our terms. Co-production is not the same thing as co-development. We need to make sure, when we are looking at co-development, we are not doing for the sake of that. Something that India needs and its military, and something that America needs, and where do those circles intersect? And how quickly can we look at co-development...and become the model for the world?" He further drew references to ancient Indian texts and said that so much of what is taught today was discovered in India centuries ago. "Our goal is not to wage war. In the Rig Veda, there is Indra, the most powerful god, the god of thunder and, in many ways, the god of war too. We knew the power and you can feel the power of that kind of primal creation of the earth that came out of conflict," Garcetti said. The US envoy also elaborated upon the concept of 'war' as described in 'Mahabharata' and 'Arthshastra'. "There are two traditions in India. One that's in the Mahabharata of war being something kind of exciting, grim, but a sport, an even religious duty. We know that well. And when we were not as hopefully civilized as we are today, every culture embraced the necessity of war as places were conquered, as people suffered, histories that were never written," the Ambassador said. He added, "But there is a second school of thought, the 'Arthshastra', which clearly states that 'war is a continuation' of politics by other means, over 200 years before, we studied in our colleges, like so much discovery in India, was actually written here first." (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met former UN Ambassador, Inga Rhonda King on Tuesday in the national capital and appreciated the role of the L.69 grouping in highlighting the voice of the Global South. The EAM said that a multipolar world needs a Council that is equitably represented to maintain international peace and security Notably, the L.69 group consists of developing nations from Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific (Small Island Developing States). Inga Rhonda King, who is currently the co-chair of the L.69 grouping has also served as the former president of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. "Glad to meet the L.69 Co-Chair, Amb. Inga Rhonda King. L.69's efforts as one of the voices of the Global South in the UN had been strong and clear. It has pressed for a long overdue representation in the UN Security Council. A multipolar world needs a Council that is equitably represented to maintain international peace and security," Jaishankar posted on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1760004677805191326?s=20 Jaishankar also met co-chairs of the Intergovernmental negotiations: Kuwaiti envoy Tareq Albanai and Austrian envoy Alexander Marschik. "Pleasure to meet the co-chairs of the Intergovernmental Negotiations: Ambassador Tareq Albanai of Kuwait and Ambassador Alexander Marschik of Austria. Appreciated their assessment of the ongoing discussions on UNSC reform. The international community hopes that under their stewardship the IGN process moves forward this year," he stated. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1759942679037628745?s=20 Earlier in the day, the EAM addressed the CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave, wherein he highlighted the growing India-Europe engagement in the last decade. "Addressed the Second CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave this evening. Highlighted the growing India-Europe engagement in the last decade. More frequent visits underline a deeper partnership. Six broad elements drive world economy today: Production & Consumption; Connectivity & logistics; Technology; Demographics; Values & Comfort and Framework & promoting partnerships. Confident that India-Europe ties will collaborate well in all these areas," he posted on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1760005074762510400?s=20 Addressing the event, he said, "PM Modi has received 37 heads of European governments. I have visited Europe 29 times and I have received 36 of my colleagues during this period. I underline these numbers to emphasise how deep, sustained and how continuous the relationship has been." Expanding on human skilling and mobility, Jaishankar said India has in the last few years concluded a number of agreements on mobility with European partners. "So, it is something that fits in very neatly with the consumer requirement at the other end as well," he noted. (ANI) Australia announced its plans to build its largest navy since the Second World War, allocating more than USD 35 billion for the defence project over the next 10 years, CNN reported. The analysts have pointed out that this move is due to heightened tensions with China in the Indo-Pacific region. "The plans will see the Royal Australian Navy boost its fleet of major surface warships to 26 in total after an independent review led by a retired US Navy admiral found "the current and planned surface combatant fleet is not appropriate for the strategic environment we face," according to the government statement. The plan to bolster the fleet includes 20 destroyers and frigates, and six Large Optionally Crewed Surface Vessels (LOSVs), that can operate with sailors aboard or independently as drones. Those surface vessels will join a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines that Australia plans to build under the AUKUS pact with the United States and the United Kingdom, the first three of which are expected to be delivered early next decade, as reported by CNN. "A strong Australia relies on a strong navy, one that is equipped to conduct diplomacy in our region, deter potential adversaries, and defend our national interests when called," Australian Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond said in the statement. "The size, lethality and capabilities of the future surface combatant fleet ensures that our navy is equipped to meet the evolving strategic challenges of our region," he added. Analysts said the security environment in the region - where rival China has built up the world's largest navy and is asserting its territorial claims in disputed waters - meant Australia had to act. According to CNN, upon completion in the mid-2040s, the naval build-up would yield a fleet with the country's three current Hobart-class guided-missile destroyers, which will get upgrades to their air defence and strike systems; six new Hunter-class frigates with anti-submarine warfare as well as strike capabilities; 11 new general purpose frigates for air defence, strike and escort duties; and six of the new LOSVs, which would each have 32 Vertical Launching System (VLS) cells for missiles. An additional 25 smaller vessels will also be used for offshore patrol and maritime security duties, the government said. (ANI) The Secretary of State at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Poland, Wladyslaw T Bartoszewski, stressed on taking the India-Poland ties to the next level as there are multiple scope of cooperation between the two nations. He further said that Poland would welcome skilled and hard-working labourers from India. Speaking to ANI, Bartoszewski said, "We have had relations for 70 years, we had established it in 1954. Now, it is time to move to a different level. We have a new government and we also want to engage with India more politically." "Firstly, to have high-level political visits, as we have not had that for some years. India, being the largest democracy, we want to get India involved in world affairs because we share Indian values and we want you (India) to play a bigger role because you are not a small underdeveloped state, but a very well-developed state and fifth largest economy," he added. The Polish Secy elaborated upon the multiple areas where the two countries can collaborate, ranging from renewable energy, IT to pharmaceuticals. "We want to cooperate on specific businesses; renewable energy projects, and high-tech because 9 per cent of India's GDP comes from It and 7 per cent of Polish GDP comes from IT, transportation, agriculture, mining, and pharmaceuticals," Bartoszewski said. He added, "There is a lot of scope for cooperation, in the cultural sphere, getting more Indian tourists to move to Poland. There is a small Indian diaspora in Poland. We also want to have more frequent flights so we can get more Polish tourists in India...there are lots of things we can do together." On being asked about the Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union, he said the grouping has 27 nations, but Poland individually is engaging with India on multiple levels. "We have smaller formats. For instance, we have got Three Seas initiative, which brings thirteen countries from north of Europe, in which we are playing a big part and incorporating India's interests," he said. On the prospects of Indian workers getting the opportunity to work in Poland as skilled or unskilled labourers, the Polish Secretary of State said, "We would certainly welcome them. We need hard-working but skilled workers...Indian community certainly offers that. We also want to cooperate in this industry, and that also means an exchange of people." India and Poland share warm and friendly bilateral ties. During 'Operation Ganga', Poland helped in the evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine after the crisis broke out between Russia and Ukraine in February 2022. (ANI) The Heritage foundation, USA participated in the First BJYM-KAS India Dialogue which was successfully organised on Tuesday and discussed contemporary topics of three different continents. The BJYM-KAS India Dialogue is a unique initiative of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (the youth wing of the BJP and Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung a German political think tank. The event saw conservative or right of the centre voices from three different continents hold a vibrant & open discussion to understand each other's perspective. According to the statement, BJP Foreign Policy Department in-charge Vijay Chauthaiwale and member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister Shamika Ravi joined the discussion along with several dignitaries from Germany. BJYM-KAS India Dialogue is a unique initiative to bring together select thought leaders, young politicians, academicians, activists and media on the right of the centre spectrum from the different continents to discuss contemporary topics. Various issues like policies of BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, nationalism, Wokeism, tech-disruptions & economy were discussed. Taking to X, National Vice-President BJYM, Abhinav Prakash said, "BJP Foreign Policy Department in-charge Shri @vijai63 and member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister Dr @ShamikaRavi graced the occasion along with several dignitaries from Germany. Special thanks to BJYM National President Shri @Tejasvi_Surya for his constant support and encouragement to such engagements. Thanks to the participants for active participation in the discussions." "BJYM-KAS India Dialogue is a unique initiative of BJYM & Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung to bring together select thought leaders, young politicians, academicians, activists and media on the right of the centre spectrum from the different continents to discuss contemporary topics. Various issues like policies of BJP under Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi , nationalism, Wokeism, tech-disruptions & economy were discussed," he added. Shobhit mathur, Co-Founder, Vice Chancellor, Rishihood University who also participated in the discussion posted on X "'Conservative' politics is on the rise globally, while academic spaces are increasingly 'Liberal/Progressive'. However the definition of 'Conservative' varies on economic, social, environmental, immigration etc issues. Glad to be a part of a fascinating discussion on this." (ANI) According to the report, Pakistan foreign ministry presented data of Pakistani prisoners abroad during a meeting chaired by Waleel Iqbal. According to the data, 23,456 Pakistani citizens were imprisoned in foreign countries, including 15,587 convicts and 7,869 under-trial prisoners. The highest number of those Pakistani prisoners was in Saudi Arabia, where 12,156 were languishing in different jails. This is followed by 5,292 prisoners at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) jails. The data further showed that currently 706 Pakistanis were held in Indian jails. The ministry said that 338 Pakistanis were held in Qatar, 519 in Iraq, 450 in Bahrain, 59 in Kuwait, 308 in Turkey, 255 in Malaysia, 88 in Afghanistan, 100 in Iran and 400 in China, The Express Tribune reported. In the Europe, 811 Pakistani citizens were imprisoned in Greece, 330 in Great Britain, 330 in Italy, besides 44 in the United States. The committee also discussed the Prisoner Transfer Agreement. The Express Tribune reported that officials from the foreign ministry and the interior ministry said that Pakistan had prisoner exchange agreement with 11 countries, including Azerbaijan, China, Iran, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE and the United Kingdom. The committee directed the foreign ministry to make a uniform consular protection policy within 90 days. It also directed the ministry to release the details of the Prisoner Transfer Agreement with various countries on its website. (ANI) Taking to X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared about their arrivals saying, "More Foreign Ministers land in New Delhi for #RaisinaDialogue2024! FM @ManeeshGobin of Mauritius, FM @JMakamba of Tanzania & FM @JanainaGob of Panama arrive to a warm welcome in New Delhi." Earlier today, Foreign Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, and Liechtenstein arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday to take part in the Dialogue which will begin today. Taking to X, a Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson posted about their arrival and said, "#RaisinaDialogue2024! Warm welcome to FM @DominiqueHasler of Liechtenstein, FM @DinoKonakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina and FM @elinavaltonen of Finland." Moreover, the Foreign Minister of Hungary, Peter Szijjarto also arrived in New Delhi to participate in the CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave. Earlier, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis also arrived in New Delhi to attend the Raisina Dialogue. Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. The ninth edition of Raisina Dialogue is set to be held in Delhi from February 21-23. It is being organised by Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will be the chief guest and keynote speaker at the 9th Raisina Dialogue in Delhi. Ministers, National Security Advisors, senior officials and representatives of industry, technology, finance and other sectors from more than 100 nations will participate in the Raisina Dialogue. According to a video posted by Randhir Jaiswal on X, the thematic pillars of Raisina Dialogue are - "Tech Frontiers: Regulations and Realities, Peace with the Planet: Invest and Innovate, War and Peace: Armouries and Asymmetries, Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions and Inclusion, The Post-2030 Agenda: People and Progress." In a post on X, Randhir Jaiswal stated, "RaisinaDialogue2024 - 's premier conference on geopolitics & geoeconomics is back with its 9th edition this year. Feb 21-23, 2024 Theme - Chaturanga: Conflict / Contest | Cooperate | Create Know more about the conference." (ANI) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will visit Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday to attend the ongoing multilateral naval exercise, 'MILAN-2024,' said an official statement. During his one-day tour, Dhankhar will be the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony of the International Maritime Seminar- 'MILAN-2024'. "The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar will visit Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh on February 22, 2024. During his one-day tour, Shri Dhankhar will be the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony of the International Maritime Seminar- 'MILAN-2024,' as per an official statement. For Milan 2024, nearly 20 ships from the Indian Navy, including aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, and nearly 50 aircraft including MiG29K, LCA, Tejas and P8I are participating in the exercise. The Indian Navy welcomed the naval ships of Russia, Australia, Seychelles, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the US. The many naval ships that arrived in Visakhapatnam included: Marshal Shaposhnikov (BPK 543), a Udaloy Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; Varyag (011), a Slava Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; PS Zoroaster of Seychelles Coast Guard; IRIS Dena, a Moudge Class Frigate of the Iranian Navy; BNS Dhaleshwari, a Castle Class Missile Corvette of Bangladesh Navy and KD Lekir (FSG 26), a Kasturi Class Corvette of the Royal Malaysian Navy. Earlier, HMAS Warramunga, an Anzac-class frigate of the Royal Australian Navy, arrived in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People's Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy had also docked in Visakhapatnam to participate in the MILAN exercise. During the Harbour Phase, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at the Maritime Warfare Centre in Visakhapatnam. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the Indian Navy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief. Taking to X, Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "Harbour Phase highlights at #MILAN2024! As part of the multinational naval exercise, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at #Maritime Warfare Centre, #Visakhapatnam today. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the #IndianNavy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief. Thought-provoking discussions led to robust operational plans, fostering camaraderie and preparedness." During the Harbour Phase, the International City Parade rehearsal at RK Beach in Vishakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the Indian Navy ships and aircraft. In a post on X, the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "International City Parade rehearsal at #RKBeach #Visakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the #IndianNavy ships and aircraft. #AirDemo The display left the audience awestruck with its precision and elan. "The marching contingents of our sister services and foreign partners also lent grandeur to the event As we share some moments of the event here, we welcome you to join us live on # IndianNavy's official You Tube channel and Facebook page for the live streaming of final parade on 22 February 2024!," it added. In the press release, the Indian Navy stated, "During the sea phase from 24 to 27 Feb 2024, participating Navies will conduct advanced Air Defence, Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare drills. Gunnery shoots on aerial and surface targets, manoeuvres and underway replenishment would also be conducted." "MILAN 2024 aims to strengthen regional cooperation and maritime security, foster interoperability and understanding between participating navies and provide a platform for sharing best practices and expertise," it added. (ANI) Pakistan's apex court on Wednesday disposed off a plea seeking the Februray 8 general elections to be declared null and void after the petitioner failed to attend two consecutive hearings, as reported by Dawn. The petitioner Ali Khan filed an application last week, urging the apex court to order new elections within 30 days to be held under the direct supervision and oversight of the judiciary "to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability". He further sought a stay order to stop the formation of a new government till the case was decided. However, during the previous hearing, the Supreme Court described the filing of the petition and its subsequent withdrawal as something that led to abuse of the court process, according to Dawn. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa said, "This court will safeguard that such manipulation does not take place." He said this after it emerged that the petitioner failed to appear in court. Today, a three-member bench -- led by CJP Isa and including Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali -- resumed hearing the petition. However, the applicant was once again absent from the courtroom, Dawn reported. Subsequently, the apex court disposed of the plea and imposed a fine of Rs 500,000 on the petitioner. Moreover, the petition urged that the SC should order a "thorough and impartial investigation" into the alleged pre-poll rigging, election fraud and misconduct and hold the responsible ones accountable for undermining the democratic foundations of the nation. The petition, while putting his "utmost trust and confidence" in the judiciary", pleaded to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and democracy and redress the grievances of people over the alleged subversion of their democratic rights. It further alleged that the general elections were marred by gross violations of democratic principles, including the denial of a level-playing field to all political parties, particularly the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, according to Dawn. It added that the imprisonment of PTI founder Imran Khan over "fabricated charges" and the subsequent act of depriving the party of its electoral symbol "severely undermined the democratic process". The plea moreover stated that the subsequent revelation of widespread rigging and manipulation, which resulted in the "fraudulent" defeat of numerous PTI candidates, further undermined the election's credibility. Additionally, it said that the petitioner had pleaded that the consolidation of power by political entities with a history of alleged misgovernance, corruption, and incompetence poses a serious threat to democratic governance and national stability, as reported by Dawn. (ANI) United States Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Richard R Verma lauded the extraordinary nature of the defence partnership between the US and India, asserting that it stands apart from "any other country in the world". In an interview with ANI, Verma expressed his admiration for the robust and inspiring joint defence exercises conducted by the two nations, noting their sophistication at every level. "The US and India are major defence partners, a status we don't have with any other country in the world. We are building this incredibly kind of robust defence relationship. When I go and see the defence exercises that our two militaries do together, it's very heartening. It's very inspiring. It's very sophisticated at every level," he said. India has the largest number of military exercises with USA, which are growing in scale and complexity. Important bilateral exercises include Yudh Abhyas (Army), Vajra Prahar (Special Forces), Malabar (Navy), Cope India (Air Force), and Tiger Triumph (tri-services). Red Flag, RIMPAC, CUTLASS Express, Sea Dragon, and Milan are some multilateral exercises in which the two countries participate, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. Verma also addressed concerns about the transfer of critical defence technology, acknowledging the significant progress made over the past two decades. "When I think back to where we were in the early 2000s, we (US and India) had no defence trade, zero, between the US and India. Now the number is somewhere USD 24, USD 25 billion in defence, goods and technology that have been transferred" he said. Earlier this month, the US State Department approved the sale of 31 armed drones, missiles and other equipment to India for nearly USD 4 billion. The MQ-9B Predator drones deal was announced during PM Narendra Modi's visit to US in June 2023. Notably, India-US defence cooperation is based on "New Framework for India-US Defence Cooperation", which was renewed for ten years in 2015. In 2016, the defence relationship was designated as a Major Defence Partnership (MDP). On 30 July 2018, India was moved into the Tier-1 of the US Department of Commerce's Strategic Trade Authorisation license exception. The US Deputy Secretary of State, highlighted the current phase focused on co-production and co-development, indicating a proactive transfer of technology. "Now, we're in a whole different phase, which is about co-production and co-development, which by definition means technology is being transferred. We've reformed our export control laws very significantly," he added. In November last year, when US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin arrived in New Delhi for annual "2+2 Dialogue", India and the US announced growth on key defence deals saying they would expand their growing partnership in the face of geopolitical challenges. To address potential issues with technology proliferation, Verma underscored the substantial reforms in export control laws, stating, "We still care about where that technology ends up, where the intellectual property ends up, and we have to make sure it's protected and preserved." He expressed confidence in the assurances received from the Indian system, characterising it as a functioning and effective mechanism, stating, "So I actually see a system that's working." Verma also recalled a pivotal moment during the Bush administration, where he, alongside then Senator and current President Joe Biden, engaged in a rare classified session of the US Senate on laying the groundwork for the groundbreaking US-India civil nuclear deal. "I've worked on this relationship for a long time. And that was when a Republican administration, the Bush administration came in and briefed us on US-India civil nuclear deal. We went into a rare classified session of the US Senate, which I will never forget. And the person leading the debate on the Democratic side was then Senator Biden to say why India should have this carve out in the international nuclear framework to allow the civil nuclear deal to go forward," he said. The Indo-US nuclear agreement was initiated in July 2005, when the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visited the US. On 18th July 2005, Singh and the then US President George Bush, in a joint statement, announced their agreement to enter into a civil nuclear deal. Regarding concerns about US-Pakistan defence ties and the possible transfer of technology to China, Verma downplayed the comparison, emphasising, "We in no way, anywhere remotely close to what we're doing with India on the defence partnership. They're not even in the same category." (ANI) United States' former ambassador to India Richard R Verma has highlighted that the enduring strength of ties between the two countries is their "shared values," which has transcended mere "transactional" buyer-seller relationship and formed the bedrock. In an exclusive interview with ANI, the US Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources conveyed his optimism regarding the unique and special bond between the two nations, which is rooted in shared values that have been developed over decades. Verma, who served as the US envoy from 2014-2017, asserted that the foundation of the relationship is built on a deep history of shared ideas about post-colonial independence, justice, civil rights, equality, and democracy. "Anyone who asserts that we don't have shared values, I think, doesn't actually appreciate the history... going back decades and decades. Our great writers and philosophers over 150 years have been sharing the ideas about post-colonial independence, about the struggle for justice, about civil rights, about equality, about democracy. And that is the foundation. There's a reason why there's nearly 5 million Americans of Indian and South Asian descent in the United States," Verma said. "We are not just a transactional buyer-seller relationship. This is not just about interest," the top US official said adding, "Of course, every country has interest, and those countries pursue those interests. We are uniquely situated," he said. The former ambassador highlighted the historical connections, citing instances like Mahatma Gandhi's appreciation for Henry David Thoreau's writings and Martin Luther King Jr being influenced by Gandhi. Verma stressed that the values shared between the two nations form the bedrock and foundation of their relationship, serving as the glue that holds them together. "I could give you dozens and dozens of examples where our values form the bedrock and the foundation of this relationship, and it's evident today. That's what makes this relationship special and different. And ultimately, that's what we have to stay true to. All of the other activities on top of it are important, but we can never lose sight of that foundation. That is the glue that holds us together," Verma added. Addressing concerns about the impact of election cycles on bilateral relations, Verma sought to assure that efforts to strengthen the US-India relationship are being redoubled. General elections are scheduled within a couple of months in India and the US Presidential elections slated for November this year "We are actually redoubling our efforts on the US-India relationship and you see that in the number of activities and just the way the president talks about the relationship, of course, the state visit last year," the US Deputy Secretary of State stated. The top US official also pointed out an increase in bilateral dialogues in a diverse range of activities and initiatives, spanning defence, emerging technologies, clean energy, and healthcare. "I'm here because I wanted to let people know I've really never seen the relationship as strong and robust, as diverse as it is today," he said. "I just look at the number of bilateral dialogues we have coming up, the number of really interesting initiatives coming up from different in the defence area, from emerging technologies to clean energy, health, so much more," Verma said. Earlier this month, the US State Department approved the sale of 31 armed drones, missiles and other equipment to India for nearly USD 4 billion. The MQ-9B Predator drones deal had been announced during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the US in June 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on an official State visit to the US in June 2023, where he was accorded a ceremonial welcome by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Verma noted that records in trade, defence, and people-to-people ties have been consistently broken, and expressed confidence in the durability of the India-US relationship beyond election cycles. "We've broken every record that we keep in terms of trade and defence and people-to-people ties, visas issued. That will continue, election year or not an election year. We don't have the luxury of kind of not engaging with the rest of the world. I think the world expects our leadership, And I think this relationship is too important," Verma said. Asked about the challenges posed by critiques on the political landscape in India, Verma acknowledged the presence of differences and emphasised the importance of addressing them through dialogue. "I mean, look, we have... big noisy democracies in both capitals. I've certainly lived here and seen plenty of critiques about the United States. I've seen critiques in the United States about India. I And I also think when we have differences, we sit down and we address them. It is in our collective interest to support civil society," Verma said. He also highlighted the significance of supporting civil society, a free press, and the democratic aspirations of minority communities as shared goals that strengthen the collective interest of both nations. "It's in our collective interest to support a free press. It is in our collective interest to support democratic aspirations of minority communities and to be more inclusive. That's what our leaders talk about when they get together. That model helps, frankly, push back against the authoritarian and autocratic vision of the world, which does exist and is the counter-narrative." The former US Ambassador, who is currently on a visit to India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives underscored the need to stand together against authoritarian and autocratic visions, expressing his enthusiasm for the collaborative potential of the India-US relationship. (ANI) US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma has assured that the United States would take action against India-designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun if he or his associates crossed the line. In an interview to ANI on Tuesday, the US official said that there is a requirement to operate within the law. "I'm not going to get into specific cases, but I just kind of go back to what I said about, you know, we have to operate within the law, and we do. And when people cross that line, they will be held accountable," the US Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources said. On being asked about the difficulty of Indians to fathom as to why America doesn't crack down on Khalistani separatists, Verma said that the US government would not tolerate any kind of harassment specially that targeted against diplomats. "When people say things and we each have different rules when it comes to free speech. We have to assess where the line crosses into conduct, but we won't tolerate any violence or any kind of harassment directed at officials, and we will crack down on it where the law allows us to do it, and we have done it, and we will continue to do it," Verma stated. Verma who is a former ambassador to India, also underscored how the diplomatic security team has done a very thorough job in ensuring not only Indian diplomats, but all diplomats posted in the US are safe and secure. "Look, we've, you know, for those who engage in violence or any attacks, they're held completely accountable and are...I will say our diplomatic security team has done a very thorough and important job in ensuring not only Indian diplomats, but all those diplomats posted in the United States are safe and secure," Verma said. "And there's no higher priority for us, for the Secretary of State, and we will continue to do that," he added. In March last year, alleged pro-Khalistan elements had illegally entered the Indian consulate premises in San Francisco and attempted to set it ablaze. Another attempt at arson on the consulate was made in July last year. Pro Khalistani elements were allegedly behind this attack as well. Richard Verma, on being asked about the allegations against India over its involvement in the alleged attempt to kill Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, said the concerns were raised with the Indian government at the most senior levels. "Look, we raised the concerns with the Indian government at the most senior levels. They took it seriously. They've launched an investigation, and we look forward to continuing to hear back from the Indian authorities about what they've found, but it's a very important issue, and it's being addressed," the US Deputy Secretary of State told ANI. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is an India-designated terrorist who holds American and Canadian citizenship. As per the US Justice Department indictment, an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, who is currently in custody has been charged with murder-for-hire of Pannun. The US Justice Department had claimed that an Indian government employee, who was not identified in the indictment filed, had recruited the Indian national to hire a hitman to allegedly carry out assassination of Pannun, which was foiled by US authorities. Richard Verma said the United States was now waiting to hear from the committee of inquiry set up by India to look into the matter. "Well, as I understand, there is a committee of inquiry that's looking into this and investigating, and we would expect to hear...Here in India, we would expect to hear back as to what... has been discovered and who's been held accountable for the activities," Verma said. "This is a serious issue. It is being addressed, will be addressed. So let that proceed," he added. "But again, I'm here seeing all these incredible kinds of companies and innovators and progress in the relationship, which is also taking place at the same time. So we've got to be able to handle multiple sets of issues at the same time, some of which may be very difficult," he further stated. In December last year, US Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer acknowledged India's establishment of a Committee of Enquiry to investigate the plot to allegedly kill Pannun in the US. (ANI) The Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, were among the top dignitaries at the annual event. The foreign ministers, along with other officials from across the world enlisted the representation of several countries in the ongoing edition of the Raisina Dialogue that got underway in the national capital on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister of Mauritius Maneesh Gobin, along with his counterparts from Tanzania January Makamba and Panama's Janaina Tewaney Mencomo arrived in New Delhi. Moreover, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto, along with his counterparts from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, and Liechtenstein also arrived in India. Earlier, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis also arrived in New Delhi to attend the annual event. The ninth edition of Raisina Dialogue will conclude on February 23. The event is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), a think tank. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is the chief guest and keynote speaker at the ongoing 9th Raisina Dialogue. Ministers, National Security Advisors, senior officials and representatives of industry, technology, finance and other sectors from more than 100 nations are participating in the event this year. In a post on X earlier, the chief spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Randhir Jaiswal, stated, "RaisinaDialogue2024 - 's premier conference on geopolitics & geoeconomics is back with its 9th edition this year. Feb 21-23, 2024 Theme - Chaturanga: Conflict / Contest | Cooperate | Create Know more about the conference." In a video posted on X, Jaiswal listed the thematic pillars of Raisina Dialogue as, "Tech Frontiers: Regulations and Realities, Peace with the Planet: Invest and Innovate, War and Peace: Armouries and Asymmetries, Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions and Inclusion, The Post-2030 Agenda: People and Progress." (ANI) Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra emphasised that the alignment of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) remains unchanged, and was progressing "very strongly and robustly." Addressing a special briefing on the visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to India, Kwatra, while highlighting the status of the IMEC corridor, said that the discussions regarding the specifics of the individual sub-segments of the IMEC corridor, including segments related to shipping, railways, and logistics, has been progressing. "So far, as the alignment of the IMEC corridor is concerned, that remains unchanged as of now," he said, adding, "Discussions on the specifics of the individual sub-segments of the IMEC corridor whether these are segments relating to the railways, shipping, putting the logistics standard that will operate in the corridor, they have been progressing very strongly and robustly in the months since the launch." Noting the discussions that took place between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Foreign Secretary said that the talks were not limited to identifying the segments in which the partnership would take place. It took place in the larger context of stronger connectivity between India and Greece and to look at all possible options that would strengthen this connectivity. "India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor is one such corridor that would strengthen this connectivity and given the strategic importance Greece holds in terms of its location, its importance and the manner in which Greece could partner with IMEC corridor were discussed," he said. "It would have to focus on the ports which would form part of its connectivity with this corridor. I don't think the discussions were not in an exclusive frame of reference. It was all-encompassing with the direction being positive and comprehensive...," Kwatra said. Earlier today, PM Modi said that India welcomes Greece's active participation and positive role in the Indo-Pacific and called it a matter of happiness that Greece has decided to be part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans initiative. "In today's meeting, we also discussed many regional and international issues. We agree that all disputes and tensions should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. We welcome Greece's active participation and positive role in the Indo-Pacific," he said. The Foreign Secretary underscored the meeting held between PM Modi and the Greek PM earlier in August. Kwatra noted that both leaders agreed on regular contact and exchange of views on development across the world and regional security threats, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean as well as in the Indo-Pacific regions. "Both leaders reinforced their commitment to build in this regard the partnership in the Mediterranean Sea as well as in the Indo-Pacific. They also exchanged views on how to build our cooperation in the context of the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor," he said. Moreover, the Greek PM also conveyed the decision by Greece to join the Indo-Pacific Ocean initiatives led by India. The two leaders also exchanged their common concerns with regard to the challenge of terrorism and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. On the climate change action, the Greek PM underlined the importance of India's leadership in international solar reliance. "PM Modi also highlighted the work that India is doing and the scope of building a partnership with Greece in so far as the alliance of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) is concerned, this is the coalition on disaster resilience," he said. Besides the discussions between the two leaders, several MoUs and understandings have also been arrived, separately between the private sectors as well as between the think tanks of the two countries. "The return visit of the PM of Greece within six months of the Indian PM's visit to Greece brings forth the shared commitment of the two sides to deepen their strategic partnership and very comprehensive and rich discussions today focused on all aspects of building that strategic partnership, economic, political as well as security...," Kwatra said. Later, in the discussion regarding ports, he said that while no specific ports came up in the conversation, the idea was how exactly you enhance the strategic connection between the two economies through the IMEC Corridor. "The discussions were not limited to one particular context. While no specific ports came up in the conversation, the idea was how exactly you enhance the strategic connection between the two economies through the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor and in that context, if you have to use particular ports, what would be the framework of such cooperation in the port sector, in the logistics sector, in the shipping aspect of it? So no specific ports were discussed...," he said. Earlier today, PM Modi said he and Kyriakos Mitsotakis have decided to prepare an action plan to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Greece in 2025. Calling his discussions with Kyriakos Mitsotakis "meaningful and useful", PM Modi said that the two nations are rapidly heading towards doubling bilateral trade by 2030. He expressed happiness that India and Greece are taking steps to implement the agreements reached in this area in 2023. (ANI) Amid Pakistan's two major political parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), reaching an agreement to form a coalition government, a Pakistani Canadian broadcaster claimed the alliance did not suit either party and was just a measure to fulfill the needs of the Pakistan Army. In an interview with ANI, Tahir Aslam Gora, said it was a real struggle for the Pakistan army to hold elections in Pakistan. He said, "Look the real struggle has been that of Pakistan's Army, it needs a prime minister of its own. Otherwise, PPP and PML-N's alliance does not suit both of these parties. And such a government does not suit them." "Pakistan's economic situation is terrible, the terrorism in Pakistan is terrible. In this whole situation, it suits none of them. Even the PTI leaders do not want to form a government, because they know that after three months they will have to bear a lot of bills and that they will cry out", said the Pakistani Canadian broadcaster. Tahir praised India for its rapid development whereas Pakistan is struggling with a range of issues. "It is sad that India is the biggest democracy and the country in its neighbourhood is marred by terrorism, financial crisis, and after giving pain to its allies, has come to this stage that it is on the verge of bankruptcy. And its democracy is also facing bankruptcy." When asked if there will be a positive outcome of the new coalition in Pakistan paving a way forward to improve relations with neighbouring India, Tahir Gora said, "It's not going to be a new government. It will be the PDM 2.0 government. Everybody wants good ties with India, the two major parties there. But the army won't let it happen. The government is the army. It is the army which has been running the country and will continue to do so". He added, "The seeds of hatred that have been sowed for 76 years, won't go off overnight. I have no hope that Pakistan will have good ties with India". The Pakistani Canadian broadcaster also raised concerns over the rise of religious fundamentalism and terrorism in Pakistan. He said, "Religious fundamentalism has been nurtured by successive governments in Pakistan. The snake will always bite back. The Taliban you have supported is now saying that we don't recognize the Durand Line. The terrorists you have trained for activities in Kashmir are now carrying out attacks in your territory. The Pakistan society definitely has to face these challenges." While speaking about growing unrest and anti-Pakistan sentiments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan, Tahir Gora said, "Since after the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A on 5 August 2019, people in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan are now seeing that in Jammu and Kashmir new hospitals, roads are being constructed and peace is prevailing. The economy of Jammu and Kashmir is growing. In comparison, if anyone falls sick in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan, they are not able to find a good hospital for treatment. There is growing frustration in these territories." "Things are quite fabulous in Jammu-Kashmir, and quite horrible in PoK. This is the reason behind growing frustration and protests in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan," said Tahir. The Pakistani Canadian broadcaster also raised his concern over the grim human rights situation in Balochistan where incidents of enforced disappearances are rampant. "The new government in Pakistan will hardly touch the issues of enforced disappearances in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The protests will continue as no government in Pakistan has a mandate and power to counter the brutalities of the Pakistan Army. They can't even question the Army," said Tahir Gora. (ANI) The UK government on Wednesday announced a sanctions package targeting prison officials at the jail where Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny died. The sanctioned individuals include Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who oversaw the brutal prison camp where Navalny was kept in solitary confinement for up to 2 weeks at a time. Navalny's condition had deteriorated in his 3 years in prison. Navalny suffered from being denied medical treatment, as well as having to walk in -32C weather while being held in the prison, the UK government said in a press release. https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1760286758812446908 The UK is the first country to impose sanctions in response to the death of Navalny, a political prisoner who dedicated his life to exposing the corruption of the Russian system, calling for free and open politics, and holding the Kremlin to account. Foreign Secretary David Cameron said, "It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him. FSB operatives poisoned him with Novichok in 2020, they imprisoned him for peaceful political activities, and they sent him to an Arctic penal colony. No-one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system." "That's why we're today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months. Those responsible for Navalny's brutal treatment should be under no illusion - we will hold them accountable," he added. The following individuals are being sanctioned under the UK's Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations for their responsibility for activity that violates the right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and the right to life. Namely, they are responsible for the custody of Alexey Navalny in their positions as Head or Deputy Head of Arctic Penal Colony. Following Navalny's death on Friday, the FCDO summoned a representative of the Russian government to make clear that Alexey Navalny's death must be investigated fully and transparently, and those in the Russian regime responsible held to account. Following news that Navalny's family is being denied access to his body, the UK is also calling for the Russian authorities to release his body to them immediately. The Foreign Secretary will attend the G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting in Brazil today, where he will use the opportunity to call out Russia's aggression and its global impact directly to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. (ANI) Sharing on social media platform X, Vice President Dhankhar posted, "The Prime Minister of Greece, H.E. Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis called on the Hon'ble Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas today." Both the leaders also underlined the historic, cultural and warm people-to-people ties between India and Greece. "Both leaders underlined the historic, cultural and warm people-to-people ties between the two nations as they also underscored deepening bilateral engagement between India and Greece," the post read. https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1760283138297909635?s=20 Greek PM Mitsotakis is on a two-day State visit accompanied by a high-level official delegation and also a 60-plus strong business delegation. He arrived in the national capital on Tuesday. Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi welcomed the Greek PM at the airport. Notably, Mitsotakis is the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker at the Raisina Dialogue 2024, which is scheduled to take place from February 21-23. The Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. Mitsotakis is accompanied by senior officials and a high-powered business delegation. During his visit to India, PM Modi and his Greek counterpart, Mitsotakis will hold bilateral discussions. PM Modi will also host a lunch banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. Notably, this is the first bilateral Head of State or Head of Government level visit from Greece to India after 15 years, the last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008. PM Modi had visited Athens on 25 August 2023. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra were among the top dignitaries at the annual event. The ninth edition of Raisina Dialogue will conclude on February 23. Before concluding his visit, the Greek PM would also be visiting Mumbai before returning to his country. Earlier today PM Modi held bilateral and delegation-level talks in the national capital with the visiting Greek Prime Minister and said that both countries have agreed to double their bilateral trade by the year 2030. (ANI) Armenia is ideally positioned to offer India an alternative sea trade route, especially with Europe, Narek Mkrtchyan, the country's minister for Labor and Social Affairs, said on the sidelines of the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue in the national capital on Wednesday. "The Armenian government is committed to forming partnerships in major regional and global projects like the North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Gulf Black Sea transport, and the transit corridor and the Chabahar port development, which is a collaborative effort between India and Iran," the minister told ANI on the sidelines of the event. The Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. Further expanding on the country's offer of an alternative route for commerce, the Armenian minister said it was 'significant' at a time when many nations, including India, are looking for alternative sea routes to trade with Europe and the West, given the spate of attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea. The Houthi attacks on commercial vessels on Red Sea trade routes started in mid-November, with the group linking the disruptions to its demand for an end to Israel's offensive in Gaza and the delivery of aid to Palestinians 'under siege'. "Armenia holds a strategic position to propose to India an alternative sea trade route, particularly with Europe," Mkrtchyan said. He also stressed Armenia's commitment to partnerships in significant regional and global projects, including the North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Gulf Black Sea transport, the transit corridor, and the collaborative development of the Chabahar port with India and Iran. This proposal is significant amid the growing interest in alternative sea routes due to security concerns in traditional routes like those on the Red Sea. The minister also pitched a collaboration with India on Artificial Intelligence (AI) through a global coalition where ministers of the two countries can consult and trigger investments for AI. "There is a potential to collaborate on AI for social good to address sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation planning. We could also potentially establish a global AI innovation platform to facilitate the sharing of Solutions and Research," he added. Bilateral dialogue between India and Armenia is conducted through the mechanisms of Foreign Office Consultations and Inter-Governmental Commission on trade, economic, scientific and technological, Cultural and Educational Cooperation, and periodic high-level interactions, the Ministry of External Affairs stated in an official release earlier. The ninth edition of Raisina Dialogue began on Wednesday and is scheduled to conclude on February 23. The event is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), a think tank. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is the chief guest and keynote speaker at the 9th Raisina Dialogue. Ministers, National Security Advisors, senior officials and representatives of industry, technology, finance and other sectors from more than 100 nations are participating in the event this year. (ANI) Australian Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Robert Chipman called on Vice Chief of Army Staff Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday and discussed bilateral defence cooperation between both countries. Air Marshal Robert Chipman has been awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC) and Member of the Order of Australia (AM). Earlier on Monday, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi took over as the new Vice Chief of Army Staff. After assuming the appointment of Vice Chief of Army Staff, the General laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in Delhi. Posting on social media X, the Indian Army stated, "Air Marshal Robert Chipman, AM, CSC, Chief of The Air Force (CAF), Australia, called on #LtGenUpendraDwivedi #VCOAS and discussed issues of mutual interest including bilateral #DefenceCooperation." https://x.com/adgpi/status/1760306542874656995?s=20 Earlier today, Air Marshal Robert Chipman called on the CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari in the national capital. They both discussed issues of mutual interest and areas to enhance cooperation between both the air forces "Air Marshal Robert Chipman, Chief of Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force called on the CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari today in New Delhi. Issues of mutual interest and areas to enhance cooperation between both the Air Forces were discussed," the Indian Air Force posted on their official handle on X. https://x.com/IAF_MCC/status/1760276115476689402?s=20 India's senior-most military official, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, is scheduled to meet with top military leaders from countries of strategic importance for India, including the US, France, Australia and the UK at the Raisina Dialogue, which has begun in the national capital today. The CDS is scheduled to meet the top military officials from important partner countries such as the US, France, Australia, New Zealand and the UK during the dialogue, defence officials said. The CDS is also expected to deliver a talk on important military issues at the event along with discussions on important issues with the visiting military officials. The office of the CDS has been given the responsibility of theaterisation of the defence forces by the Narendra Modi government along with the task of increasing indigenisation and Gen Chauhan has taken multiple steps towards achieving this objective in the Indian defence forces. The Raisina Dialogue is India's premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community, with the theme 'Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create'. The Dialogue is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving heads of state, cabinet ministers and local government officials, who are joined by thought leaders from the private sector, media and academia. (ANI) Sharing on social media X, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) stated that the two discussed contemporary security challenges and issues of mutual strategic interest and bilateral defence cooperation. "General Anil Chauhan, #CDS_India interacts with Admiral John C Aquilino, Cdr US INDOPACOM. Discussions held on contemporary #securitychallenges, issues of mutual #strategicinterest and bilateral #DefenceCooperation, duly affirming stronger ties between both nations," HQ IDS posted on X. https://x.com/HQ_IDS_India/status/1760300443488706908?s=20 Earlier in the day, CDS General Anil Chauhan interacted with a delegation of Lockheed Martin, holding discussions on collaboration with the Indian Defence Industry for products and technologies in line with the 'Make In India' initiative. The delegation was led by the vice president of International Business Raymond P Piselli, the HQ IDS stated in another post on X. US Aerospace major Lockheed Martin, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, is a global security and aerospace company that is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. "General Anil Chauhan, #CDS interacted with a delegation of #LockheedMartin Pvt Ltd led by Mr Raymond P Piselli, Vice President International Business. Collaboration with Indian Defence Industry for products & technologies in line with #MakeInIndia initiatives discussed," the post stated. https://x.com/HQ_IDS_India/status/1760272509738393786?s=20 Lockheed Martin, an American multinational corporation specialising in aerospace, arms, defence, information security, and technology, has exported nearly USD 650 million worth of defence products from India to the US. Earlier in January, General Chauhan held a video call interaction with the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) head, Admiral John C. Aquilino, and discussed bilateral defence cooperation and contemporary security challenges, defence officials said. Both officials also discussed ongoing defence cooperation and strategic interests. Last December, to maintain deterrence in the Indo-Pacific and assist India in bolstering its defence modernisation plans, the US deployed cutting-edge military capabilities to its allies. (ANI) Pakistani citizens shared their perspectives on the critical challenges facing the nation, particularly amid uncertainty regarding its leadership while reflecting the concerns, hopes, and expectations of the people during this critical time. A concerned Pakistani citizen shared his apprehensions about the country's current trajectory, expressing doubt over the government's priorities and its impact on the nation. The individual articulated their frustration with a system seemingly driven by self-interest rather than a commitment to national welfare. "I cannot comprehend the mindset of these leaders who seem more interested in their businesses than the well-being of our country. It feels like they have imposed their will on us without considering the consequences for the nation," lamented the local. The conversation shifted towards the economic challenges facing Pakistan, prompting the citizen to comment on the severity of the situation. "The state of Pakistan's economy is distressing. Every other person is facing hardships, and it remains to be seen if the current government can strike a deal with the IMF that truly benefits the people," remarked the concerned citizen. When asked about the upcoming elections and potential leaders, the interviewee expressed skepticism about figures like Shahbaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari, suggesting a lack of faith in their commitment to the nation. "These politicians only seem interested in securing power for themselves. We need leaders who genuinely think about the country's future, not just their own political survival," he added. Discussing Pakistan's future, another citizen painted a grim picture, stating, "With the current political landscape, it's hard to imagine progress. We need honest individuals who prioritize the nation's growth over personal gains." Addressing financial challenges and diplomatic crises, the interviewee urged for a pragmatic approach. "The country is in crisis, both financially and diplomatically. We need leaders who can navigate these challenges and bring about positive change, not just temporary solutions," stated the concerned citizen. In a series of political meetings, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) intensified its endeavours to form a government by securing agreements with various coalition partners on Wednesday, building on a recent power-sharing deal with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), The Express Tribune reported. Representatives from the PML-N engaged in discussions with delegations from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), consolidating alliances and outlining plans for governance. It was revealed that the PML-N and MQM-P have reached an understanding to collaborate within the government framework. Key figures from both parties, including Kamran Tessori, Mustafa Kamal, and Dr. Farooq Sattar from MQM-P, and Ishaq Dar, Ayaz Sadiq, Azam Nazir Tarar, and Muhammad Ahmed Khan from PML-N, convened in Islamabad for discussions. Simultaneously, a meeting took place between coordination committees of PML-N and BAP, reaffirming their commitment to addressing the challenges facing Balochistan and the federation. Representatives from both parties, including Ishaq Dar, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Azam Nazir Tarar, and Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan from PML-N, alongside Nawabzada Khalid Hussain Magsi, Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, and Kauda Babar from BAP, reiterated their dedication to establishing strong democratic governments at federal and provincial levels. Furthermore, delegates from PML-N and JUI gathered in the federal capital, acknowledging the pressing issues faced by Balochistan province and emphasizing the urgency of a robust democratic governance structure. In a joint declaration, they emphasised the need for collaborative efforts toward the prosperity of Balochistan, confirming their mutual cooperation in achieving this shared goal, The Express Tribune reported. (ANI) Emphasising the importance of India''s role on the global stage, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Wednesday that India today is rightly regarded as a "consensus builder" when it comes to shaping the direction of global debate or addressing challenges. He also said that Greece can act as an interlocutor between India and Europe, given its geographic, cultural and strategic proximity. In his address on the inaugural day of the Raisina Dialogue, he said, "I touched a little earlier on the growing importance of India''s role on the international stage. It is the leading democracy in the Global South. When it comes to shaping the direction of the global debate and addressing the great challenges, India is often regarded as, and rightly so, as a consensus builder." Further highlighting the high growth rates in the two countries, PM Mitsotakis said that mutual investment is a major goal of the bilateral ties between India and Greece. "India is the world''s fastest-growing economy. Greece has over the past years enjoyed some of the fastest growth rates of any European country. Mutual investment is a major goal of our bilateral relations, and I''m pleased to say that we already have a number of significant Greek investments here in India in many sectors, including food processing, maritime and air transport, logistics," he further said. The Greek PM, along with Prime Minister Modi, graced the ninth Raisina Dialogue as the chief guest and keynote speaker. At the event, he stated that India is already investing ''heavily'' in Greece''s infrastructure. "The volume of our bilateral trade is on an upward trend, but we have agreed with Prime Minister Modi that we need to do much more and we need to set a target to double it by 2030..." he noted. Earlier in the day, PM Modi engaged in a "productive meeting" with the visiting Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis here on Wednesday. The discussions, spanning several crucial domains, underscored the shared commitment to enhancing bilateral ties between India and Greece. The leaders emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to bolster cooperation in vital sectors, including shipping, connectivity, and defence. The commitment to fostering technological advancements and innovation emerged as a central theme, reflecting the shared vision for mutual growth and progress. Mitsotakis, who is on a two-day visit to India, arrived in the national capital on Tuesday and was received by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakashi Lekhi. Notably, this marks the first bilateral head of state or government-level visit from Greece to India after 15 years. The last prime ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008.PM Modi, too, visited Athens on August 25, last year. (ANI) During the final stages of the battle for Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers might have been captured by Russian forces, The New York Times reported on Feb. 20, citing senior Western officials and Ukrainian military servicemembers. Two unnamed Ukrainian soldiers told the newspaper that an estimated 850 to 1,000 Ukrainian troops might have been taken prisoner or are considered missing in action during the recent withdrawal from Avdiivka. Western officials stated that these numbers "seem accurate." Read also: Some Ukrainian troops were captured during Avdiivka withdrawal The article also mentions that more detailed information on this issue may only be known after the Ukrainian forces secure new positions near Avdiivka area and entrench there. Journalists speculate that if these figures are confirmed, it could negatively impact troop morale and further complicate mobilization in Ukraine as a whole. On Feb. 17, senior Ukrainian military commanders confirmed that an unspecified number of Ukrainian military personnel were captured during the retreat from Avdiivka. On Feb. 18, the analytical portal DeepState reported that Russian invaders executed at least six captive Ukrainian soldiers Avdiivka, who had been left behind following the Ukrainian army's retreat from the town. Four of them were wounded and could not break out of the encirclement with other units. On Feb. 19, Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets noted that such actions by Russian troops constitute a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law. Read also: Russian air superiority aids offensive in Avdiivka; more aggressive frontline advances expected ISW 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 BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A woman is dead following a two-vehicle crash in east Bakersfield, and both drivers of each vehicle were arrested for DUI charges on Feb. 17. CHP officers were dispatched to a two-vehicle traffic crash near the intersection of Pioneer Drive and Dennison Lane just after 1:30 a.m. on Saturday. According to officials, a truck was heading westbound on Pioneer Drive when the driver of the truck veered to the left and crossed the double solid yellow center lines. Seconds later, the truck crashed head-on with a Honda on eastbound Pioneer Drive east of Dennison Lane at an unknown speed. Both vehicles temporarily blocked east and westbound lanes, CHP said. Man dies after crashing into tree on Old River Rd.: BPD The right front right passenger of the Honda suffered major injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to officials. The 33-year-old driver of the truck was arrested for felony gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and felony driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, CHP said. The 29-year-old man behind the wheel of the Honda was also arrested on misdemeanor charges for driving under the influence of alcohol, officials said. The other two passengers of the Honda suffered major injuries in the crash and were transported to Kern Medical. Both passengers were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision, according to CHP. This crash remains under investigation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) One person has been injured in a multi-vehicle crash involving a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus Wednesday, according to Medic and CMS. Authorities said CMS Bus No. 9 was traveling to Piedmont Middle School Wednesday morning when the bus was involved in an accident. They said the bus was stopped at the intersection of Randolph Road and Woodlark Lane when two other vehicles collided, impacting Bus No. 9. Track issues along your commute with the QCN Traffic Interactive Map The driver and three students on the school bus were not injured in the crash, CMS said. Medic confirmed with Queen City News that one person, not a student, suffered minor injuries. CMS said the students have been delayed in arriving at school Wednesday but will have breakfast once they arrive and then head to class. No word on any charges in this crash at this time. This is a developing story; check back for updates For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) A teenage boy was shot, and a teenage girl was stabbed during a fight Monday night, according to the Mobile Police Department. 2 Infirmary Health employees assaulted, 1 man arrested, says Mobile Police Officers were called to New Jersey Street, near Broad Street, for a report of a male juvenile being shot, according to an MPD news release. When they arrived, officers learned about two groups of female juveniles fighting. A 17-year-old girl allegedly stabbed a 16-year-old girl multiple times. During the fight, two males pulled guns and began shooting, according to the release. A 17-year-old boy was then reportedly hit by gunfire. Both the victims were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Toddler found alone on Daphne sidewalk: Police The 17-year-old girl was arrested and taken to Mobile Metro Jail. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. Ukrainians celebrate on Feb. 21 a decade since Ukraine's women's biathlon team clinched an electrifying victory in the Olympic relay race in Sochi. Ukraine was reeling from the tragic violence that had occurred during the Euromaidan Revolution when dozens of peaceful protesters were ruthlessly killed in late February 2014.Ukrainian athletes, eager to honor the memory of those lost on Independence square, intended to compete wearing black mourning ribbons. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), led by President Thomas Bach, banned such "political actions." In such circumstances, only a resounding victory could justify the Ukrainian athletes' decision not to boycott the Olympics further. And they delivered spectacularly. The Ukrainian women's biathlon team, featuring Olena Pidhrushna, Yuliia Dzhyma, Valya, and Vita Semerenko, outpaced Russia to win the gold medals in the relay race, allowing the Ukrainian anthem to proudly echo through Sochi. Read also: How the Maidan Negotiated tells the story of civil society defeating authoritarianism 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 This list is curated by Charlotte on the Cheap, where youll find even more free and cheap things to do every day, and detailed by Denise Casalez. Friday, Feb. 23 Illuminating the Breonna Oya Sculpture, Yoruba Symbolism, and Artivism Location: Mint Museum Uptown, 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Time: 6:30-9 p.m. Cost: Free Join Mint Museum Uptown for a moment of remembrance and activism with the Breonna Oya sculpture, created by Laolu Senbanjo and Chris Carnabuci. The program starts at the staircase and ends in the atrium. Saturday, Feb 24 African American Heritage Festival Location: Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte, NC 28215 Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Free Celebrate Black History Month with the Charlotte Museum of Historys annual African American Heritage Festival. You can expect performances, guest speakers, panels and more. Parking and shuttle services are free. Historic cooking demonstration Location: President James K. Polk Historic Site, 12031 Lancaster Hwy, Pineville, NC 28134 Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: Free Travel back in time with Susie Worcester in the Historic Kitchen House as she recreates historic foods from the North Carolina back country. You can expect her to cook food as authentic as possible however, the food is not for public consumption. The James K. Polk State Historic Site. Black History Month Celebration in Cornelius Location: Cain Center for the Arts, 21348 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031 Time: 5:30-7 p.m. Cost: Free Celebrate Black History Month with Cornelius for its Black History Month Celebration. This years program includes keynote speakers at the Smithville Community Coalition, art exhibitions, music performances and more. Sunday, Feb. 25 Free concert by Brighter Day Community Choir Location: Reeder Memorial Baptist Church, 3725 Beatties Ford Rd, Charlotte, NC 28216 Time: 4-6 p.m. Cost: Free If youre in the mood for music, the Brighter Day Community Choir is presenting a free concert at the Reeder Memorial Baptist Church. The concert features songs that inspire a spirit of renewal, and the choir invites you to come out for an evening of praise, worship and fellowship. Monday, Feb. 26 Free wings at Buffalo Wild Wings Location: Multiple Time: 2-5 p.m. Cost: Free Grab free wings at Buffalo Wild Wings celebration of the Super Bowl going into overtime for the first time since 2017. Just show up to dine in or pick up an order in person and enjoy six traditional or boneless wings. Arts at the Abbey Location: Belmont Abbey Basilica, 100 Belmont Mt Holly Rd, Belmont, NC 28012 Time: 8 p.m. Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated. Join Belmont Abbey College for its Arts at the Abbey series, where it provides free cultural opportunities for students and the community. This weeks event features Handels London 1724 with Carolina Pro Musica, where you can expect voice and 1800s instruments. Tuesday, Feb. 27 Song request night Location: Primal Brewery, 16432 Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 Time: 3-10 p.m Cost: Free entry Join Primal Brewery Huntersville for its song request night. Request your favorite tune, and check out The Smashed Patty food truck from 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28 Songwriter showcase Location: Old Town Public House, 21314 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC 28031 Time: 7:30-10 p.m. Cost: Free entry Join the Old Town Public House for its Songwriter Showcase every fourth Wednesday of the month. This is an intimate, round-robin style performance that features some of the areas top songwriters. Great Decision Lecture with UNC Charlotte Location: Dubois Center, 320 E 9th St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Time: 6:30-8 p.m. Cost: Free Head to a Great Decision Lecture with UNC Charlotte to learn something new or gain a new perspective. This weeks lecture features Climate Technology and Competition with Joshua Miller, assistant professor of the department of Political Science and Public Administration. Thursday, Feb. 29 Black History Month exhibitions Location: Historic Rosedale, 3427 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28206 Time: 10 a.m-3 p.m Cost: Free Celebrate the last day of Black History Month with Historic Rosedales Black History Month exhibitions. The days programming includes Oasis Spaces: The Green Book Project African American Travel in NC 1933-1966 and The Great Escape: The Underground Railway. Visit Charlotte on the Cheap for an expanded list of things to do in Charlotte every day. Youll find festivals, kids activities, date night ideas, art, trivia and much more. You can sign up for a daily email that will keep you in the loop. An Indiana mother is facing charges after falling asleep while breastfeeding her baby, leading to the infants death, police said. On Oct. 9, Aaliyah Lykins, of Muncie, called 911 after falling asleep in bed with her 2-week-old daughter, according to a probable cause affidavit filed Feb. 15. Upon arrival, medical personnel found the baby to be limp with no signs of breathing, court records show. The baby was taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead, authorities said. Oh no, I did it again, Lykins told EMS personnel, according to the affidavit. Aaliyah Lykins was fully aware of the danger of co-sleeping with her infant ... as she had a prior born child die while co-sleeping, the affidavit said. On Oct. 30, 2020, Lykins had a son, almost 2 months old at the time, who died from co-sleeping in a bed with her, court records show. Lykins told officers in 2020 that she should not have placed (her son) in bed with her, and that she knew it was wrong, the affidavit said. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly discourages co-sleeping, or sharing a bed with a baby. Approximately 3,500 infants die from sleep-related infant deaths annually in the United States, according to the AAP. Accidental asphyxia is a rare but possible outcome if mothers fall asleep in bed with their infants while breastfeeding, according to the National Library of Medicine. The charges filed against Lykins include reckless homicide and neglect of a dependent, according to court records. McClatchy News was unable to locate attorney information for Lykins. Muncie is about 60 miles northeast of Indianapolis. 4-month-old dies at unlicensed day care with double its allowed capacity, officials say Baby found dead in airport restroom nearly 20 years ago, cops say. Now, mom arrested Shopper strangles woman at Kroger pharmacy because he thought she cut line, IN cops say Editors Note: This story contains descriptions of graphic scenes. My brain will desperately want to forget all this, narrates journalist Mstyslav Chernov over footage he filmed of city workers adding bodies to a mass grave in Mariupol, but the camera will not let it happen. At the start of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Chernov, along with his Associated Press colleagues, photographer Evgeniy Maloletka and field producer Vasilisa Stepanenko, were the last international media left reporting from the besieged city of Mariupol. Those who remained within the city faced significant risks as Russian forces advanced. The footage they captured for the AP, including famous scenes from the aftermath of the Russian airstrike on a maternity hospital on March 9, 2022, horrified the world and arguably contributed to mobilizing international aid for Ukraine. Sign up for our newsletter Sign up The documentary film "20 Days in Mariupol" pieces together this footage in chronological order. It earned a nomination for Best Documentary Feature Film at this year's Oscars, which are scheduled to air on March 10, and there's a strong likelihood that the film will win. The Oscar nomination is a first for Ukrainian cinema and a victory for 20 Days in Mariupol would be a historic milestone for Ukrainian culture during the country's darkest hour. But many are hoping that it will also bring renewed global focus on the stark brutality of Russia's war crimes as the full-scale war enters its third year. A shot from the Ukrainian documentary 20 Days in Mariupol" which was nominated for an Academy Award. ("20 Days in Mariupol") Creeping horror Prior to the full-scale invasion, Mariupol was home to around 540,000 people and considered one of the largest cities in Ukraine, according to data in a report published by Human Rights Watch, Truth Hounds, and SITU Research this February. Mariupols residents endured relentless bombardments for eight weeks until the city fell under total Russian occupation in May 2022. The citys destruction is one of the first major war crimes committed by Russia during its all-out war against Ukraine. The authors from the report Our City Was Gone: Russias Devastation of Mariupol, Ukraine estimate that around 400,000 of the citys residents were able to flee the city by mid-May 2022. However, those who remained were left for months without basic services, including electricity, running water, and health care. The exact death toll from Russias siege on Mariupol is unknown given that the city remains under occupation. Official estimates range between 10,000 and 25,000 people, but the actual number is likely higher. Critical infrastructure was targeted by Russian forces early on in the siege, meaning that Mariupols residents were left without (widespread) access to running water, electricity, gas, heating, telecommunications, or information about what was happening around them in the city or the broader (war). A pedestrian walks amid debris in a street following the shelling in Ukraine's second-biggest city of Kharkiv on March 7, 2022. (Sergey Bobok/AFP via Getty Images) The report also incorporates testimonies from multiple survivors, giving added context to what viewers see in 20 Days in Mariupol. For example, there is the testimony of a 57-year-old English teacher who sought refuge with her husband at the citys Regional Intensive Care Hospital. The woman suffered a broken arm during the Russian shelling of her neighborhood, while her husband sustained injuries to his face, jaw, and legs, rendering him unable to eat or speak. Doctors in the city increasingly struggled to provide sufficient medical care to patients such as the couple, as the city was under a blockade, and their supplies were rapidly diminishing. They were soon compelled to conduct amputations for the more severely injured patients under improvised anesthesia. Patients moved to the basement after the Regional Intensive Care Hospital was targeted by Russian forces on March 13. There were hundreds of people in the basement. Its hard to figure out how many. The basement was packed. There were mattresses and we had some ventilation. But there was only a little light, no water, and no toilets. The hospital had a generator, so we sometimes had electricity, the woman recalled. The bodies of at least 10 people who later died from their injuries or other complications had to be removed from the basement, the woman added. Smoke rises from the Azovstal steel plant in the city of Mariupol on May 10, 2022, amid the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine. (Stringer/AFP via Getty Images) The authors of the report collected multiple testimonies of how Russian forces deliberately targeted civilians. A member of the Mariupol City Council, Halyna Morokhovska, managed a shelter for civilians that was targeted by Russian forces on March 15, 2022. There were 172 people in the building at the time of the attack. There was a lot of shelling, lots of loud explosions ... Suddenly I heard a long hum, like a uuuuuuuuuuuuu sound, and then my ears were ringing. I was later told that there was a large crater in front of the building, Morokhovska said. Then I saw (a woman) buried under bricks, with parts of her body sticking out. The right-hand side of my body, especially my leg, had been badly injured by shrapnel. My thigh and my face were bleeding, and blood was flowing into my eyes and mouth. Film how these f**kers are killing civilians 20 Days in Mariupol captures all this horror as it begins to unfold. Having previously reported on Russias attempts to take the city in 2014, Chernov and his colleagues knew that it would once again become a target and decided to return there in 2022. The first death seen on film is at a hospital on the citys outskirts, located just a few kilometers from the front line. Russian forces had not yet entered the city, but the sound of fighter jets overhead and increased shelling prompted residents to seek shelter wherever they could find it. As Chernov explains to the tense soldiers at the hospital perimeter that he has to film because it is a "historic war," their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of an ambulance. Inside, paramedics are desperately trying to save a four-year-old girl. My baby, oh God, her mother wails. Please save my child. Chernov follows them with his camera as she is transported onto a gurney and brought inside the hospital. After a few minutes, it becomes clear that the little girl cannot be saved, leading to increasing emotional distress among the doctors and nurses. Its good that the press is here, one of the doctors says angrily. Film how these f***kers are killing civilians. Thats how (Russia) saves people. The little girls name was Anhelina. Throughout the film, Chernov tries to name the victims whenever he can in his voiceover narration, so that they are not perceived by the viewer as mere statistics. The deaths of multiple children including infants are seen in the film along with the heart-wrenching sight of grieving parents struggling to come to terms with their loss. In one scene, a teary-eyed girl timidly confesses in a shelter that shes afraid and doesn't want to die. These are perhaps the most difficult scenes to sit through but they are also important as they underscore the sheer brutality of Russias war. (L-R) Vasilisa Stepanenko, Raney Aronson-Rath, Michelle Mizner, Derl McCrudden, Mstyslav Chernov and Evgeniy Maloletka of '20 Days in Mariupol' pose for a portrait at Getty Images Portrait Studio at Stacy's Roots to Rise Market on Jan. 23, 2023 in Park City, Utah. (Emily Assiran/Contour by Getty Images for Stacy's Pita Chips) While it might be viewed by some as a controversial decision, the film also chooses not to shy away from the darker moments of the siege on Mariupol. For example, a distressed woman watches helplessly as her store is looted by locals. There are also some Mariupol residents who, due to the spread of misinformation, believe that its the Ukrainian army attacking them. However, there are many more Mariupol residents who declare to the camera either through tears or anger that they dont want their city to be part of Russia. As Chernov notes in his voiceover narration, war has a way of amplifying a persons character. After the credits roll in "20 Days in Mariupol," the viewer will inevitably ponder the fate of each individual depicted in the film whether they succeeded in escaping the city, currently live under occupation, or were later killed by Russian forces. Getting the truth out Russia's war against Ukraine has been frequently called "the most documented war in history" because of the extensive footage captured since Feb. 24, 2022. But the pervasive nature of Russian propaganda has led some to still not fully grasp the horror of the violence Russia has inflicted upon Ukraine. This is a problem that 20 Days in Mariupol acknowledges, ending with footage of Russias Permanent Representative to the United Nations Vasily Nebenzya being confronted by journalists about the footage Chernov, Maloletka, and Stepanenko captured in Mariupol. Nebenzya tells reporters that there are so many fakes and complains about a so-called information war against Russia. Chernov juxtaposes this in the film with footage of Mariupol city residents navigating through a completely destroyed urban landscape, highlighting the grim reality of Russia's "liberation." Russia's global-scale information war persists as Ukrainian civilians nationwide face repeated targeting through shelling, missiles, and drone strikes. An aerial view taken on April 12, 2022, shows the city of Mariupol, during Russia's military invasion launched on Ukraine. (Andrey Borodulin /AFP via Getty Images) On Jan. 3, the Emilia Romagna Cultural Association announced an event in the Italian city of Modena focusing on the purported "rebirth" of Mariupol and Russia's claimed "rapid reconstruction" efforts in the occupied city. The Facebook post about the event, which was written in both Italian and Russian, referred to Russias liberation of Mariupol. Russian Ambassador to Italy Dmitry Shodin and Eliseo Bertolasi, an Italian journalist with pro-Kremlin leanings, were scheduled as speakers. Thanks to pushback from Ukraines Foreign Ministry and the Ukrainian community in Italy, Modena city officials revoked permission for the event on Jan. 9. But the fact that it was even approved in the first place points to the urgency of not letting the world forget about Russia's ongoing war crimes against Ukrainian civilians. Tetyana Denford and Darya Zorka, who translated the film into English for Frontline PBS, wanted to do their part to help reveal the truth about what happened in Mariupol, despite the emotional toll they knew it would take on them. Wed only recently found out about the Russian atrocities in the Kyiv region (when we got hold of the footage) and we knew that Mariupol was likely much worse, Zorka told the Kyiv Independent. However, we didnt fully understand the scale of destruction and Russian barbarism until we saw the raw footage from the city. It would sometimes take Zorka two hours to translate a two-minute segment because she couldnt stop crying. Likewise, Denford began to consult a therapist because she realized that the second-hand trauma she experienced from watching the footage was affecting her day-to-day life. But I realized how urgent this was, and I became sort of robotic in my work. I couldn't stop until I finished whatever I had on my desk that day, as long as it took, Denford said. The announcement of the film's Oscar nomination in mid-January represents a significant milestone for Ukrainian culture amid an ongoing war for the country's survival. For the two translators, its important that more people will now be talking about whats happening in Ukraine at a point when coverage of the war is dwindling from international news cycles. It just shows you that creativity, art, cinema these are ways where people can learn more of the truth, instead of just watching the news unfold. We can reach people with these ways on a much bigger scale, Denford said. You just have to be human, and believe that people have a right to tell their stories. We all just have to give each other the space and respect to tell our truth. Otherwise, we have nothing left. At the same time, this achievement comes at a great cost to Ukraine and has been followed by countless other atrocities, such as the Bucha massacre, the discovery of mass graves in liberated Izium, and the brutal Russian capture of cities like Bakhmut and Avdiivka. I would give all the Oscars in the world for the people of Mariupol to be alive and just live their lives like the rest of us, Zorka said. No Oscar can return the tens of thousands of people killed or heal the millions of those who witnessed unspeakable horrors. Note from the author: Hi, this is Kate Tsurkan, sharing an important culture-related story from Ukraine. Due to Russias ongoing genocide, most stories about Ukrainian culture will, unfortunately, be related to war for years to come. But Ukrainian culture is finding ways to persevere and it's important to share these stories. If you liked reading this article, please consider continuing to support our reporting to see more like this. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Seven hundred seventy-seven pieces of legislation were introduced during the 2024 Legislative Session in New Mexico, as lawmakers grappled over the states budget while also looking to enact policy aimed at curbing the impacts of oil and gas. Energy is always a hot topic among lawmakers when they convene each January for the annual sessions, and despite this years 30-day sessions focus on budget, many policy bills were brought forth by Democrats in attempts to regulate oil and gas and prop up new forms of energy like wind, solar and geothermal power. The majority party was successful in some of its attempted reforms, but others were either voted down or stuck in committee when the session ended Feb. 15. Here are the key energy and environment bills sponsored during the session and how they fared. More: 'Renewable' geothermal energy boosted by bill passed by New Mexico House What failed? Lujan Grishams water supply proposal blocked, for now In late 2023, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced a Strategic Water Supply proposal that would appropriate $500 million so the state could buy treated oilfield waste fluids and brackish water from the industry, then sell the water to other new industries coming to the state. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham enters the House Chambers to deliver her State of the State speech for the start of the 56th Legislature at the Capitol, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in Santa Fe, N.M. This was intended to support water-intensive industries like hydrogen power which Lujan Grisham wants to attract to New Mexico, but was opposed by environmental groups who view oil and gas wastewater, known as produced water, as a hazardous product that could never be fit for other uses. The funding was included in a capital outlay spending package but was removed toward the end of the session and introduced albeit at only $100 million in the New Mexico Senate via Senate Bill 294. More: 'Clean fuels' bill advances in New Mexico Senate, to make oil companies pay for pollution SB 294 also removed language allowing produced water to be included in the program, opting for the more general term brackish water. The bill was advanced by the Senate Conservation Committee with no recommendation and held up in the Senate Finance Committee as the session closed. Lujan Grisham signaled she would continue to champion the initiative during a press conference at the session's outset. More: It could become more expensive to drill for oil on New Mexico state land, should bill pass Oil and Gas Act reforms stalled after negotiations in the House House Bill 133 was intended to amend the Oil and Gas Act, which has governed the industry since being passed in 1935 but wasnt update in decades, to increase penalties and costs for companies to do business in New Mexico. The bill also increased bonding requirements operators pay to fund clean up of abandoned wells, added setbacks for fossil fuel facilities from homes, bodies of water and other sensitive areas and codified into law a requirement that producers capture 98 percent of natural gas generated at well sites by 2026. As HB 133 moved through the House Energy and Natural Resources and Judiciary committees, it was altered to remove the set back language and add a tiered approach to the bonding rules. This allowed smaller operators to pay less into the bonding, with the cap climbing based on how many wells a company owned in the state. More: Tax credits, rape kits & highways: Find out what bills your Eddy Co. Senators are sponsoring Despite these changes, via negotiations between lawmakers and industry, the bill was held up on the House Calendar without receiving a vote from the full chamber. Attempt to raise state land oil and gas royalty rate stuck in Senate Democrats for years called for an increase in the royalty rate oil companies pay on the value of fossil fuels they produce on State Trust land. The rate sits at 20 percent of the revenue, with lawmakers and advocates arguing it should be increased to 25 percent. More: $300M needed for New Mexico land conservation; Supporters argue for funding in budget bill A bill to do that was introduced in the New Mexico House as House Bill 48, and it was estimated to generate up to $75 million more for the Land Grant Permanent Fund, which is used to fund services like public schools and roads. The bill was supported by the New Mexico State Land Office, which oversees the fund and operations on state land, but it was blocked by inaction in the Senate Finance Committee after passing the House late in the session. What passed? Clean Fuel Standard will curb greenhouse gas from cars and trucks House Bill 41 called on the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board (EIB) to draft rules to establish a clean fuel standard for transportation fuels, likely requiring more vehicles in New Mexico have low- or zero-emission or electric motors. More: Lawmakers look to send more state funds to clean up New Mexico's abandoned oil wells HB 41, despite opposition from Republicans arguing it could increase fuel prices paid at the pump, passed the House on a narrow 36-33 vote and the Senate 26-15. Geothermal industry boosted by bill House Bill 91 will send $25 million from the States General Fund to two newly created funds to finance geothermal projects. Geothermal energy uses heat pulled from underground to the surface, generating electricity and viewed as a renewable energy and alternative to fossil fuels. HB 91 enjoyed strong, bipartisan support in passing the House 60-5 and the Senate unanimously. More: Short term state revenue loss for Hobbs passes committee, bills for Carlsbad stalled $300 million going to land conservation The centerpiece of the legislative session was House Bill 2 which detailed New Mexicos budget for the next fiscal year. The version passed by lawmakers included $300 million for the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund created by a bill last year. The money would be used statewide for wildlife and land improvements and can be used as matching funds to leverage federal grants. More: 'Fundamental disagreement' puts GOP and 'bureaucrats' in Santa Fe at odds for conservation Tax package supports renewable energy, electric vehicles A suite of tax bills was passed by lawmakers to provide credits and other benefits to those using renewable power, electric vehicles and other clean energy approaches. This included income tax credits for those buying electric vehicles, installing solar panels or using geothermal power. Industrial revenue bonds were also approved to support energy storage needed for renewable energy generation, and tax credit sunsets for taxable year 2023 were repealed. Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on the social media platform X. This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Energy reforms get mixed results in 2024 NM legislative session Kurt Prenzler Kurt Prenzler Age as of March 19, 2024: 68 Campaign website or social media page: www.kurtprenzler.com Office seeking: Madison County Board chairman Are you an incumbent? Yes Have you run for elective office before? (Please list previous offices sought.) Yes. Ran for Madison County treasurer (lost in 2006 and won in 2010 and 2014); and Madison County Board chairman (won in 2016 and 2020). Occupation: Madison County Board chairman Education: Certified public accountant with bachelors degree in economics from The Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania; and juris doctor (law) degree from University of Illinois. Please list highlights of your civic involvement: 2011, 2017 and 2018 Three times led campaigns that defeated 1% sales tax. 2013 Led collection of 23,600 signatures on petitions to defeat backdoor referendum, blocking an $18.8 bond issue and keeping the county debt-free. 2016 Led collection of 10,000 signatures on petitions to put tax cut referendum on ballot. Voters approved (4 to 1), reducing general fund tax rate from .25 to .20. 20222023 Opposed drag queen story time held June 2022 in Collinsville and Glen Carbon libraries. Led collection of signatures to put this advisory referendum on the Glen Carbon ballot: Shall tax-supported libraries and schools promote drag queen events to children? Seventy percent of Glen Carbon voters said NO. Helped elect four family-friendly library trustees in Collinsville. Who are your top three campaign contributors? Betty Steiner, Highland; John and Michele Hopkins, Edwardsville; and Erb Equipment Co., Mitchell. Why are you running? To keep fighting taxes and protecting our freedoms: a) Second Amendment, b) COVID freedom and c) Protecting us from Chicago migrant policies. I will continue to push the County Board to put PTELL (Property Tax Extension Law Limit) caps on the ballot. Board members have resisted my request four times: 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2023. (Republicans joined with Democrats to keep tax caps off the ballot.) And we need this! Taxing districts in Madison County just passed property tax hikes: 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15.4% (Collinsville Community Unit School District 10) and even 17.15% (Granite City Community Unit School District 9). COVID freedom: I led the County Board to reopen the county in May of 2020 against Gov. Pritzkers one-size-fits-all lockdown policy. I led the board to pass resolutions for mask freedom and against forced COVID shots. Second Amendment: We put a resolution on the November 2018 ballot that asked, Shall Madison County be a Second Amendment sanctuary county? Voters said yes 2 to 1. Chicago migrant policy: Chicago and Gov. Pritzker are inviting illegal migrants to Illinois. I support legal immigration, but I will not spend county money for illegal migrants. What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? Taxes. People trust me to fight taxes, because Ive done it. Reduced cost of treasurers office by 30%. In first year as County Board chairman (2017), cut the county government property tax levy by $1.8 million to $30.8 million and havent raised it. As a result, the county government tax rate went down 34% from $.73 per $100 of equalized assessed valuation in 2015 to $.48, and its going lower next year. Why should people vote for you? Because I have reduced taxes, defended our freedoms (Second Amendment and COVID freedom) and exposed and fixed corruption, helping to send Democrat Treasurer Fred Bathon to federal prison due to unethical tax sales, saving taxpayers $1 million per year. I invite anyone to call me on my personal cellphone at 618-514-2599. Chris Slusser Chris Slusser Age as of March 19, 2024: 46 Campaign website or social media page: www.voteslusser.com and Chris.Slusser on Facebook Office seeking: Madison County Board chairman Are you an incumbent? No Have you run for elective office before? (Please list previous offices sought.) Yes. Ran for Madison County Board (won in 2008 and 2016); Madison County Board chairman (lost in 2012); and Madison County treasurer (won in 2018 and 2022). Occupation: Madison County treasurer Education: Roxana High School; Lewis & Clark Community College (associate of applied science in criminal justice); and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (bachelor of science in speech communication and business administration). Please list highlights of your civic involvement: I am the past president and a current advisory board member for Riverbend Family Ministries in Wood River and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Baptist Childrens Home & Family Services. In August 2021, I was appointed to the Board of Trustees for the Illinois Metropolitan Investment Fund (IMET). I am the past president of the Board of Directors at RAVEN (Rape & Violence End Now) in St. Louis, past vice president of finance for the SIUE Alumni Association and a former trustee for the Baptist Foundation of Illinois. I previously served as both chairman (2014-2016) and treasurer (2008-2012) of the Madison County Republican Party. While on the Madison County Board, in 2010, I introduced a plan to put our countys checkbook online, so that citizens could track every single penny of county government spending. We became only the second county in Illinois to do this. I served from 2013-2014 as chairman of the former Wood River Township Hospital Board, where I oversaw the return of more than $8.5 million in refunds to taxpayers in Wood River Township once legislation was finally passed to dissolve the former taxing district. I have been involved in nearly every countywide tax referendum issue in Madison County for the past 15 years, helping lead efforts to defeat sales tax increases and needless borrowing by county government. These campaigns have saved county taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. I attend First Baptist Church in Bethalto, where I serve as a deacon, assistant church treasurer, security team member and Africa mission team member. My wife and I have been active supporters of Thrive Metro East and The Restore Network. I am a member of the National Rifle Association and the Illinois State Rifle Association. Who are your top three campaign contributors? Friends of Tom Haine; Plummer for Illinois; and Bold Enterprises. Why are you running? Property taxes and economic development. They go hand in hand. The only way to reduce our property taxes in a meaningful way is to change the way we fund schools. Period. End of story. Sixty-five to 70% of your property tax bill goes to the schools. Gimmicks like PTELL (Property Tax Extension Law Limit) will not lower your property taxes. In fact, you would see a massive increase in the first year under PTELL. Indiana built the model on property tax reform 15 years ago, and Illinois should follow it. It shifted the vast majority of school funding away from property taxes to state sales taxes. It also enacts true property tax caps, not the misleading property tax caps that the current chairman falsely claims will happen under PTELL. The Indiana model caps property taxes at 1% of your homes assessed value. When the Illinois legislature passes this reform, it will cut our property tax bills IN HALF, immediately. I have already begun to lobby legislators in Illinois to make this change. Economic Development: In my six years prior to becoming county treasurer, I worked in commercial real estate for one of the metro-easts largest developers. I have a great understanding of how economic development should work and also what doesnt work. I have built relationships with developers, real estate agents and business leaders, and I think its important that we develop a regional strategy among our communities in Madison County, so theyre not all competing against one another and just desperately throwing incentives at businesses without having a plan and engaging in property negotiations. We havent had this type of leadership in the county chairmans office, and our region has suffered as a result. Its time for our county to start reaching its full potential, and that will start under my leadership. What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? My track record as county treasurer and as a County Board member speaks for itself. As treasurer, my office came in under budget all seven years Ive been in office, and weve returned money to the general fund every year. I overhauled the countys underperforming investment portfolio. It earned just $4.5 million in interest in six years under the current chairman, and weve now earned more than $34 million under my leadership. This additional revenue has allowed the County Board to keep the countys portion of the property tax levy flat for the past seven years. I actually have a vision and a plan to restore order in our county government and focus efforts on economic development that will benefit every community in Madison County. The current chairman and I agree on 99% of the issues, but not on execution. Im involved in activism as well, but my first obligation to the taxpayers is doing the job they elect me and pay me to do first and foremost. I will actually communicate with County Board members so that they can be properly informed and on board with our agenda, and our meetings will no longer resemble a circus or a Jerry Springer episode. I plan to begin our County Board meetings with a prayer. I will also repair damaged relationships between the current chairman and the law enforcement community, including the sheriffs and states attorneys offices. This is why I have received the endorsements of the following Republican elected officials in Madison County: States Attorney Tom Haine, Sheriff Jeff Connor, Circuit Clerk Tom McRae, Auditor David Michael, Regional Superintendent of Schools Rob Werden, State Senator Jason Plummer and many others. Its time for a new generation of conservative leadership in Madison County. Dwight Kay Age as of March 19, 2024: 76 Campaign website or social media page: None Office seeking: Madison County County Board District 24 Are you an incumbent? No Have you run for elective office before? (Please list previous offices sought.) Illinois State Representative Occupation: Retired Education: Taylor University, Samford U. School of Law Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Member of the Gideons International Who are your top three campaign contributors? Self-funded Why are you running? Im running because Madison County government does not run well. Madison Countys Government is more concerned with building political power coalitions, than providing for the needs of their constituents. The County Board has no long- or short-term goals; no economic development plan; and no plan to reduce property taxes. What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? Voters have told me that property tax reduction is their top issue in this race, and I agree. I would address this critical issue by moving to zero-based budgeting to remove the fat out of the countys budget, then by using existing property tax reduction laws provided by state statute, I would offer a resolution permitting citizens to vote on property tax increases. Voters deserve a choice as provided by state law. Why should people vote for you? I listen to the people. The experience of working in the private sector for 45 years allows me to bring a vast number of management practices and organizational principles to end the malaise in Madison County government. My agenda for the board will be results driven, transparent, accountable, and driven by common sense. Fred Schulte Age as of March 19, 2024: 71 Campaign website or social media page: www.fredschulte.com Office seeking: Madison County County Board District 24 Are you an incumbent? No Have you run for elective office before? (Please list previous offices sought.) Edwardsville Township Supervisor, Edwardsville Township Clerk, Madison County Board - District 17 Occupation: Retired co-owner of Edwardsville Frozen Foods, community volunteer Education: Edwardsville High School, Lewis and Clark Community College Please list highlights of your civic involvement: Current Board member, Main Street Community Center (1 year) Current Board member and former vice president, Church Council, Trinity Lutheran Ministries (14 years) Current vice president and board member, Hamel Mutual Insurance Co. (33 years) Edwardsville Township supervisor (3 years) Edwardsville Township clerk (17 years) Retired co-owner of Edwardsville Frozen Foods (51 years) Who are your top three campaign contributors? Tom Allen, Bob Lord, John Schulte Why are you running? I want to bring my small business experience, work ethic and common sense to the Madison County Board. What is the top issue in your race, and how would you address it? Property taxes. I would work with my fellow County Board members to oppose unnecessary property tax increases. Why should people vote for you? I have more than 50 years of small business experience and volunteering in our community. I will work hard to represent the residents of Madison County. A 3-year-old boy died after California police said his mothers live-in boyfriend shot him inside their home. The shooting took place at 2:25 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, Santa Clara police said in a news release. A mother called 911 to report that her boyfriend shot her 3-year-old son, police said. Authorities did not say what led to the shooting. We heard a loud bang, Sukhraj Singh, who heard the shot while walking to a nearby store, told KNTV. And a lady ran out, crying. And after a few minutes, a lot of cops came in. Officers found the child inside the home and could not revive him, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Its shocking, neighbor Vitaly Kolonov told KPIX. Its awful because this whole area is a pretty sleepy neighborhood. A 24-year-old of Santa Clara was arrested nearby after a brief struggle, police said. He and the child are not related. We were able to apprehend the suspect who fled on foot from the apartment, Lt. Mike Crescini told KPIX. Charges are still pending, but they are believed to be murder and resisting arrest at minimum. Police ask anyone with information to contact detectives at 408-615-4814 or fhagg@santaclaraca.gov. Anonymous tips may be left at 408-615-4847. Santa Clara is about 45 miles southeast of San Francisco. 14-year-old driver fleeing police kills passenger in fiery crash, California cops say Baby found dead in airport restroom nearly 20 years ago, cops say. Now, mom arrested Sticky-fingered woman steals $1,800 in chewing gum, California police say Three percent of the students at a Weston elementary school with a measles outbreak are currently unvaccinated, said Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Peter Licata during a Broward School Board meeting Wednesday. Licata told board members that 33 out of the 1,067 students at K-5 school Manatee Bay Elementary dont have the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, known as the MMR vaccine, for various reasons that he didnt mention. The MMR vaccine is mandatory to attend all public and private childcare and K-12 schools in Florida, but some students may be eligible for medical or religious exemptions. Broward County Schools Superintendent Peter Licata is interviewed inside his office at the Kathleen C. Wright Administration Building on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Licata spoke on the record about his school district potentially repurposing schools with low student enrollment. Since last Friday, Florida Health Department officials in Broward County have identified six cases of the highly contagious disease at the school, located at 19200 Manatee Isles Drive in Weston. Since, health officials have offered several opportunities to get the vaccine, Licata said. On Wednesday, officials visited the school and planned to stay until 6 p.m. offering to vaccinate school employees, students with parental consent, and their families, he said. The vaccine is the best protection against the cold-like sickness, according to the state health officials, who say its more than 98% effective in preventing infection. RELATED: Should you worry about measles in South Florida? What to know as school cases found The schools 97% vaccinated population is higher than the state average. Overall, Florida reports an about 91% rate of vaccinations against measles, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Immunization data for the 2023-2024 school year wasnt immediately available. But in the 2021-2022 school year, about 92% of public and private kindergarten students in Broward and Miami-Dade met the immunization requirements, state data shows. The superintendent visited the Weston school this week and said it was operating normally despite several student and employee absences. The children were learning, he said. I thanked the principal and the staff for continuing to educate our children during this time. School district responding to Ladapos decisions Licata also said on Wednesday that in a memo issued Tuesday, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo allowed any Manatee Bay student to stay home for up to 21 days because of the outbreak, so the district is working to provide that. We are in the process of developing how to ensure theres continuous learning for families who exercise this option. This will not be virtual learning but will offer a bridge during the 21-day period, Licata said. READ MORE: Florida health officials investigating measles outbreak at Broward school. Heres why In his memo, Ladapo wrote: When measles is detected in a school, it is normally recommended that individuals without history of prior infection or vaccination stay home for up to 21 days. This is the period of time that the virus can be transmitted. Because of the high likelihood of infection, it is normally recommended that children stay home until the end of the infectious period, which is currently March 7, 2024. As the epidemiological investigation continues, this date could change, he added. Ladapo said that for now, state officials will allow parents to decide whether to send their kids to school or not, but that could change if more cases come up. READ MORE: Florida official defers to parents on if kids should return to school amid measles cluster Measles can be transmitted four days prior to the start of symptoms, which include a rash that often develops on the face and neck before spreading to the rest of the body, a high fever, cough, runny nose and red watery eyes. Ladapo advised all children with symptoms to avoid going to school until they fully subside without medication. To prevent further infections of the airborne disease, Licata said the school district deep cleaned and changed the air filters at the school campus and the buses in which the students traveled. In the last decade, Florida has seen 40 confirmed cases of measles, which was was largely eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 following a strong vaccination program, the Herald reported. 388th District Court candidate Joy Degenhart Age: Please describe your personal and professional background. I am the second oldest child of 5 siblings. I grew up in the North East and I was homeschooled. I was raised with strong family values and a commitment to making my community a better place. I have been a family law attorney for 7 years. I am very familiar with the Texas Family Code and the Judicial Code of Conduct, both which govern and direct the decisions of a Family Court Judge. I have experience in complex custody cases, jurisdictional issues, multi-million dollar divorces, business and property disputes, and jury trials. I have participated in all aspects of family law litigation. I have successfully settled hundreds of cases and have tried the cases that wouldnt settle. I have presented cases to both the Judge and to juries. I have handled every type of family law case that I would preside over in the 388th District Court. How do you earn a living? Do you plan to continue if elected? I have been part of the James Rey Attorney at Law team for the last 6 years. If elected, I would resign from my associate attorney position and I would work full time as the Judge of the 388th District Court. Please describe your education. Where did you get your high school diploma? What higher education degrees and certificates have you earned from where? I was homeschooled through high school. I started taking dual credit classes at EPCC when I was 16. I transferred my credits to Texas Tech University, where I graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies. I received my Juris Doctorate from Regent University School of Law in Virginia Beach, VA. What experiences in leadership do you have that qualify you for this position? I manage the daily operations of our law practice, implementing procedures, and refinancing policies. I have also been considered a leader amongst my peers. In law school, I was the Vice Chairwoman of a Trial Advocacy Board, where I helped manage a budget and coordinate nationwide competitions. Have you ever been arrested or charged with a crime? Have you ever had a civil judgment against you? Have you ever been in arrears on local, state or federal taxes? If so, please provide an explanation. No, I have not. If elected, would you have any potential conflicts of interest that you are aware of that would impair your ability to serve? Please explain what they are and how you would avoid the conflict. If elected, I would not allow my current partner, James Rey, or my associate attorney, Alexis Castillo, to practice in my court. I would recuse myself from their cases and request a transfer of their cases to a different family court. Issue related questions Why are you running for this office? Editor's note: The El Paso Times has not been able to verify the claims involving the judge's performance. I am running for this office because I believe that El Paso deserves another option than the current Judge. I do not believe that she has fulfilled her role and served the community of El Paso. I have personally conducted numerous public information requests and have compiled the statistics of how the current Judge is failing. She has not presided over the jury trials that have occurred in her court. She has substituted out over 31 weeks, or 1,240 hours of court time to visiting judges, which has cost El Paso County tax payers over $95,000. She has a history of bias and unprofessional behavior that is harming litigants. I am running because I believe that Judge Gonzalez needs to be held accountable for the position and the trust that was placed on her three years ago and because I believe that El Paso deserves a qualified, professional, and integrous option for Judge of the 388th District Court. Why are you the best candidate for this office? I have dedicated my entire legal career to not only practicing family law but to helping families. Families in need are served by amicable, expeditious, and cost effective representation. I have immersed myself in the Texas Family Code and am familiar with its application in all scenarios. I have courteous, professional, and conduct myself with integrity. But most importantly, I am strong and I am willing to make hard decisions. Another failing of the current Judge is that she allows her Associate Judge to go weeks and months without rendering a ruling, even after a hearing or trial is concluded. A Judge that is unwilling to make hard decisions causes harmful delay for litigants. The current Judge allows her court coordinator to refuse to schedule hearings based on personal bias. When families are not given court dates, families are harmed. I believe so strongly in the importance of this Court and that this Court should serve El Paso, and I am committed to ensure that El Paso is benefitted from the 388th District Court. What do you feel are the largest challenges facing the 388th District Court? What would you do to address those challenges? I would focus on rebuilding trust with litigants and attorneys. I would strive to show the difference between myself and what would be the former Judge, Judge Gonzalez, who has targeted attorneys that supported her opponent in the prior election. I would strive to create a reputation that all litigants and all attorneys will be treated with respect in the 388th District Court. What role can/should judges play to help alleviate the backlog of cases currently in El Paso? The current Judge has several prominent attorneys with recusals out of her Court which creates a backlog amongst the other family courts. Currently 10% of the cases are transferred out of the 388th because of the recusals. I would conduct myself in a manner that eliminates the need for attorneys to question my ethics and my integrity and I would strive to eliminate the recusals out of the Court. This in turn would benefit the entire El Paso family law system. The El Paso community has been upset over what they believe to be lenient sentences given to serious criminal offenders, what steps will you take to make sure justice is served? Lenient sentences are seen in family law when a parent files an enforcement action against another parent for violations of the custody order. I believe that Judges should be strong in enforcing their orders and in establishing that violations will not be tolerated. The former District Attorney did not prosecute interference with child custody, but I would support those violations to be charged as crimes, and I would in turn hold violators responsible within the enforcement action. Will you be willing to participate in treatment courts (mental health court, veteran court, drug court, etc.) to make sure defendants are getting the treatment they need and to avoid recidivism? I believe that our family courts should implement a mental health and veteran court which would provide support to suffering veterans. Our veterans suffering from substance abuse problems, and suffering from traumatic brain injuries which result in PTSD and anxiety, are often not protected through the family court system and their access to the children is decreased because of their conditions. I believe that we should provide a therapeutic approach to those custody orders, one that promotes the health and success of the veterans, in addition to ensuring the safety and welfare of the children. El Paso judges have increasingly limited media access to courtrooms, as an elected official, what will your policies be on transparency and allowing media access to court proceedings to make sure the public knows what is happening in your courtroom? I believe in open court rooms, whether the courtroom is a Zoom Room or the actual courtroom. I believe that community members who observe proceedings should conduct themselves with decorum and professionalism. The judicial system is under constant attack related to objectivity and bias, what will you do to maintain public confidence in a fair judicial system? Family law is subjective to a certain extent. There will always feel like a winner or loser, but in reality, no one wins or loses. The children are often the biggest losers, if we are going to categorize it that way. I believe that following and applying the Texas Family Code is the best way to maintain consistency. And I believe that consistency creates credibility and reduces the concern of bias. The candidates' responses are being published largely as they were submitted. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: 388th District Court candidate: Joy Degenhart A man is accused of shooting and killing his 78-year-old mother as she was celebrating her birthday in their Florida home, a sheriffs office said. On Feb. 20, a woman called her mothers neighbor to see if they could check on her mom, Joanne Turrell, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, WTVT reported. The neighbor went inside Turrells house and found her dead, the sheriffs office told the outlet. Deputies arrived at the house shortly after, around 7 p.m., and saw Turrell had been shot and then covered with a blanket, according to a Feb. 21 news release. When deputies searched the home, they found a bedroom door locked, the sheriffs office said. Inside was Douglas Turrell, Joannes 53-year-old son who lived with her in Odessa, deputies said. Douglas Turrell had a gun with him but was taken into custody, according to the sheriffs office. He is charged with second-degree murder, according to the sheriffs office, but a possible motive was not released. Our heart breaks for the friends and family of this woman whose life was not only tragically ended but done so at the hands of her son, Sheriff Chad Chronister said in the release. Joanne Turrell was celebrating her 78th birthday. A time that should have been filled with joy and beautiful memories. Instead, we are now trying to piece together what resulted in it ending in such heartbreak. The sheriffs office said the investigation was ongoing. Odessa is about 25 miles north of Tampa. Man pays tribute at grandpas funeral. Now hes charged in his death, Florida cops say Son packs his bags when mom tries to stab him, then she shoots him, Ohio cops say Mans headless body found in suitcase, Tennessee officials say. Now roommate convicted 3-year-old boy shot dead by moms boyfriend, California police say. Shocking This undated contributed photo courtesy of the Farber family shows Jennifer Farber Dulos. Gloria Farber, the 88-year-old mother of Connecticut mother-of-five Jennifer Dulos, testified at a murder conspiracy trial Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, that she has not seen or communicated with her daughter since she disappeared and was presumed by police to be murdered in 2019. (Courtesy of the Farber Family via AP) The 88-year-old mother of Connecticut mother-of-five Jennifer Dulos testified at a murder conspiracy trial Wednesday that she has not seen or communicated with her daughter since she disappeared and was presumed by police to be murdered in 2019. Dressed in a gray suit with scarfs, Gloria Farber didn't show much emotion as she told the jury that her daughter was supposed to meet her at her New York City apartment on May 24, 2019, after a doctor's appointment, but never showed up. She suggested Dulos would never abandon her children. She was always there for them," Farber testified about her daughter in the sixth week of the trial against Michelle Troconis in Stamford Superior Court in Connecticut. Ever since Dulos vanished, Farber has had custody of her five grandchildren, who at the time ranged in age from 8 to 13. All of them were in the courtroom on Wednesday. Troconis denies allegations that she helped Dulos' estranged husband, Fotis Dulos, cover up the killing of Jennifer Dulos. At the time, Troconis was dating Fotis Dulos and living with him in Farmington, after Jennifer Dulos and the children had moved out and were living about 70 miles (113 kilometers) away in New Canaan. Jennifer Dulos' body has never been found. Farber's testimony was part of the prosecution's effort to show her 50-year-old daughter was killed by Fotis Dulos in an attack at her New Canaan home on May 24, 2019. A state probate court declared Jennifer Dulos legally dead in October. Fotis Dulos died by suicide in January 2020, weeks after being charged with murdering Jennifer Dulos. He denied the allegations. At the time of her disappearance, they were battling each other in contentious divorce and child custody proceedings. Troconis has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to commit murder, hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence. The case drew widespread attention and was the subject of a made-for-TV movie, Lifetime's "Gone Mom." Jennifer Dulos was a member of a wealthy New York family whose father, the late Hilliard Farber, founded his own brokerage firm. She also was a niece by marriage of fashion designer Liz Claiborne. Fotis Dulos was a luxury home builder originally from Greece. Troconis, a dual American and Venezuelan citizen, has described herself as a co-founder of horse-riding therapy programs in different parts of the world who once had her own TV production company in Argentina and hosted a snow-sports show for ESPN South America. Prosecutors Sean McGuinness and Michelle Manning rested the state's case Wednesday morning after Farber's testimony. Troconis' lawyer, Jon Schoenhorn, immediately made a motion for an acquittal, which was denied by Judge Kevin Randolph. Schoenhorn argued there was no evidence that Troconis knew about Fotis Dulos' alleged plans for the killing beforehand, or afterward when she accompanied him on trips that prosecutors said were intended to destroy evidence in the case. McGuiness disagreed, and Randolph ruled there was enough evidence for the jury to make their own conclusions on the charges. Police alleged Fotis Dulos drove his employees pickup truck to a New Canaan park that morning, rode a bicycle to Jennifer Dulos house, attacked her in the garage and drove off with her in her Chevy Suburban, which was later found abandoned at the park. Later the same day, Troconis accompanied Fotis Dulos to Hartford, where he disposed of several garbage bags in random locations a trip partially recorded by surveillance cameras. Police found some of the bags and said they contained clothing, zip ties and other items containing Jennifer Dulos DNA. Some of the items, including a shirt and bra, had blood-like stains on them. Some items had Fotis Dulos DNA on them, and one bag tested positive for Troconis DNA, a state forensics expert testified at the trial. Schoenhorn said Troconis had no idea what was in the bags. He also said the match with Troconis' DNA was found on a microscopic sample, and Fotis Dulos could have touched her and later spread her DNA to one of the bags. Police also said Troconis helped Fotis Dulos write up a timeline of their activities to prepare for potential questioning by police. Troconis told police she only did that at the request of Fotis Dulos and his lawyer. And she also went with him when he had the employee's truck cleaned and detailed at a car wash, prosecutors said. And on the morning of Jennifer Dulos' disappearance, Troconis answered Fotis Dulos' cellphone, which he had left at his Farmington home. Prosecutors suggested that was part of the murder conspiracy to give Fotis Dulos an alibi. Schoenhorn denied the allegation. Police interviewed Troconis three times in 2019. They said she initially lied that Fotis Dulos was home the morning of May 24, but acknowledged that wasn't true in a subsequent interview and said she didn't see him that morning. Also charged in the case is Kent Mawhinney, a friend and former lawyer of Fotis Dulos. He pleaded not guilty and awaits trial on a conspiracy to commit murder charge. The defense began to present its witnesses Wednesday. Testimony in the trial is supposed to finish on Friday or Monday. MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) Police arrested nine people following an undercover investigation into rampant drug dealing in Washington Square Park, law enforcement officials said Wednesday. Police investigated the sale of psychedelic psilocybin mushrooms and cocaine around Washington Square Park, making nine arrests over the past six weeks, according to the Special Narcotics Prosecutors Office in New York. Man accused of hiding dead body in Brooklyn apartment The investigation began last July in response to complaints from the community about open drug activity in the popular Manhattan park, authorities said. Investigators determined that most of the drug dealers were associated with a loosely affiliated street crew selling psilocybin mushrooms, cocaine and crack cocaine, according to the Special Narcotics Prosecutors Office The suspects were arrested after making more than a dozen sales to undercover officers, authorities said. The aim of this investigation, which was initiated in response to community complaints about rampant drug dealing in Washington Square Park, is to ensure that this public recreational space can be enjoyed in the way its intended to be, and those who live in the surrounding area can feel comfortable in their neighborhood, Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget Brennan said in a statement. Finn Hoogensen is a digital journalist who has covered local news for more than five years. He has been with PIX11 News since 2022. See more of his work here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE - The 908th Airlift Wing held an awards banquet to honor annual award winners for the first time in four years Feb. 3, 2024, at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. The last few years the wing had decided against an in-person awards banquet in order to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. But, considering all of the preventive and mitigating steps and measures the unit has taken the past four years, leadership felt the time was right to celebrate outstanding members in person once again. The five U.S. Air Force members that earned annual awards for the 908th Airlift Wing pose for a photo at the end of the 908th AW 2023 annual awards banquet at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, Feb. 3, 2023. The event was the first in-person banquet the wing has held in four years. The former wing command team of Col. Craig Drescher, 908th AW commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Tracy Cornett, 908th AW command chief, initially came up with the idea of an in-person banquet this year, said Master Sgt. Jeffery Davis, 908th Force Support Squadron 1st Sgt. I recall one meeting where we discussed the importance of bringing back in-person events. Another factor was the remission. Once Chief Cornett departed, we had a brief hiatus on the planning phase regarding the type of awards banquet and location. Once Chief Master Sgt. Kristen Maloney [908th AW command chief] gave the go ahead for the planning of the event, The First Sergeant Council met with the Chiefs Group and the type of event was decided. As the Senior Enlisted Leader for the 908th AW, Maloney knows the secondary and tertiary effects an event like this can have on an organization and its members. An Awards banquet is an essential retention tool and ensures our Airmen feel valued, appreciated and trusted for their contributions they made towards the overall mission, explained Maloney. Recognition is another way to establish connection and inclusion with the overall intent is to keep motivation fueled and morale high. By making it in person it provides a means to enrich in our heritage, customs and courtesies reminding us why we wear the uniform and pulls on that emotional cord where youre feeling the comradery and overall pride for being part of an elite organization. With her knowing the importance, it was easy for Maloney to say yes when the 1st Sgt. Council proposed the event. Retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Owen Duke, former 908th Airlift Wing command chief, talks the audience of the 908th AW 2023 annual awards banquet at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, Feb. 3, 2023. Duke was the guest speaker for the event, which was the first in-person banquet the wing has held in four years. Our First Shirt Council recognized the timing was right to afford this experience to the wing and started planning to make it happen, explained Maloney. The silver lining in all of this is recognizing our Airmen, both the nominees and award winners. Now came the hard part, the board had to convene and review every awards package, and select winners for each category. It was not easy for the board to do this, recalls Maloney, who happens to be the head of the awards board. We have phenomenal, talented, educated, experienced and most of all passionate Airmen who are doing remarkable things. This years nominations were made up of Airmen who sought out opportunities, thought outside of the box, took action, are resourceful and creative. They found ways to make improvements and efficiencies, stepped forward and led, took initiative, worked above expected skillset and level of responsibility. The other aspect is the leaders that marked their great accomplishments and worked on getting them nominated. This sort of event and the work that leads up to it truly takes a village and a committed group of professionals that start with our nominees, their social support structure, personal or professional, to supervisors, commanders and our own private organizations Chiefs Council, Top III, and our Maxwell Club team. U.S. Air Force Col. Donna Whittaker, commander of the 908th Mission Support Group, left, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Amerika Blair, 908th Force Support Squadron noncommissioned officer and emcee for the event, middle, and Lt. Col. Tyisha Owens, commander of the 908th FSS, pose for a photo during the 908th AW 2023 annual awards banquet at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, Feb. 3, 2023. The event was the first in-person banquet the wing has held in four years. Having difficulty with institutional memory - the 908th AWs current First Sergeant Council has no members that were on the council during the last in-person awards banquet Feb. 1, 2020, - the task of making the event a success was going to be difficult. We started planning around late January, early February 2023, recalled Davis. It starts with the choice of venue, and it took us a couple of meetings to solidify the location and it was mainly selected for tradition and affordability. According to Davis, the First Sergeant Council has to start early because of all of requirements to host a successful event. Location, guest speakers, emcees, military professional traditions, tickets, programs, advertisement, coordinating with all the involved squadrons, and most of all, fundraising. The wing contributes by purchasing the awards for the banquet. In rare cases, they may receive donations from Airmens civilian employers. Fundraising is one of the biggest challenges due to the restrictions placed on how the Council chooses to raise money. We have to rely on funds from other sources to pay for the event. This year The First Sergeant Council held two fundraising events to raise much needed funds but the main source for funding comes from the tickets sales to the actual event. To Davis and the rest of the council, the value in ensuring an in-person banquet was clear. I think Covid took a lot of connection away from people and we became used to [virtual] meetings, reschedules, and Airmen forgot was it was like to feel camaraderie and pride within a unit or squadron, explained Davis. One of our biggest opportunities to boost Airmens morale is by awarding them for their great accomplishments. These are so beneficial for personal growth and mission accomplishment so, the meaning of receiving these awards can best be served with a large celebration. After all of the hard work preparing for the event, it was time to see if it would be a success. Starting with the presentation of colors and the National Anthem, there was an Invocation and then the nominees were introduced to the audience. There was a POW/MIA table ceremony prior to the buffet dinner, then came the events guest speaker, retired 908th AW Command Chief, Owen Duke, who spoke on the importance of the Air Forces core values along with discipline and trust. Following Dukes speech, the audience was ready for the main event, the announcement of the winners for each category. Airman of the Year: Senior Airman Carter Grice, 908th Civil Engineer Squadron Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Tech. Sgt. Vincent Senegar, 908th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Senior NCO of the Year: Master Sgt. Matthew Chandler, 908th AMXS Company Grade Officer of the Year: 1st Lt. Terry Ruff, 908th AMXS First Sergeant of the Year: Master Sgt. Edward Melendez, 908th Aeromedical Staging Squadron Key Spouse of the Year: Mrs. Ashley Tucker, 908th CES Civilian Category III of the Year: Ms. Katrina Lee, 908th Force Support Squadron The size and scope of an event like this can be overwhelming to some, but for it to be successful, the whole unit has to come together. When coordinating this event, I Initially thought only a few organizations were involved in the planning but as you walk through the process, I immediately discovered every squadron in our wing needed to be onboard to ensure an event created pride and feeling of patriotism, said Davis. Many Airmen in our unit only felt this in basic training and, because of Covid, it became easier to forget about our traditions. This awards banquet has given us the opportunity to recapture our why and now because of the transition, for them the who we are as well. Maloney echoed Daviss sentiment while expounding on the benefit to the wing and its members. It is an opportunity to create new relationships and connections and continue to grow and further develop existing relationships with one another, explained Maloney. The evening gifts us a moment to pause and to truly get to learn about each other and celebrate the great accomplishments achieved within the past year and recognize our top performing Airmen. By having that moment of time, it creates cohesion that generates a high-performance team and strengthens our lethality as Wing. The banquet was closed with a speech from Wing Commander, Col. Christopher Lacouture, who was grateful for all the hard work that went in to ensuring an event was had. I love this wing, said Lacouture. Im so happy that all of you are here to help celebrate these amazing wing members and all the great things we have accomplished over the last year. I know we will continue the great work as this year is an even bigger year for the 908th Airlift Wing. This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: 908th Airlift Wing holds first awards banquet in 4 years FREMONT The Sandusky County 911 system has taken a first $400,000 step in changing to a digital roving next generation system. Lisa Kuelling, director of the Sandusky County Emergency Management Agency, 911 System, and county Homeland Security. For the next year, the biggest job we will do is moving Sandusky County to the Next Gen 911 system, Kuelling said. We just got all the new Ohio Revised Codes. We are implementing everything. She said that the current E911 system still operates, nationwide, on the original concept. The state is mandating that the change be completed in five years, but Sandusky County purchased the bulk of the 911 center equipment, at a cost of $400,000. The Sandusky County 911 System, which works with the countys Computer Automated Dispatch system that is in all the cruisers, EMS squads and fire trucks, is getting a digital upgrade, that will include functions for video, picture and text. Across the country, they were built on dialing 9-1-1 from a fixed address point. E911 is going to be moving forward, as technology has moved forward, so all the counties in Ohio will be moving from E911 to Next Gen 911, which will be dialing 911 from, almost, a moving targetIts all going to be based on mapping, not house address, Kuelling said. You will be able to dial 911 from a cell phone, a laptop, your tablet. You could be moving when you dial 911. So we need to progress forward with the way technology has moved. Honestly, that is going to be the biggest thing on our docket this year. As part of the basis for the NG911 system upgrade, it will be changed from an analog system to digital. In addition to being a faster and more reliable infrastructure, it will allow the sharing of videos, images and text messages, with the 911 centers. That new OARnet digital network operating system is being built on top of new fiber optic infrastructure, for the new statewide Ohio Emergency Services IP Network (ESINet). Kuelling said that Gov. Mike DeWine authorized, and funded, the change to NG911, when he signed House Bill 33 last July. House Bill 33, put $46 million into the Next Gen 911 budget, and that is for the state to do everything they need to do on their end for NextGen911, and then run that connectivity back through the OARnet, to connect us to the state for 911, Kuelling explained. Two years ago, when we upgraded our system, we bought a NG911 compliant system, to be fiscally responsible. So, we didnt have to buy equipment twice. She said that they will likely have to buy some additional parts, as the new statewide system is rolled out, but the main system is able to be used, as its already compliant. The $400,000 upgrade, from two years ago, was done at the same time as other upgrades that will also be compliant, including a recording system, the radio consoles. Those recordings are often used by juries, prosecutors, and judges. Now that recording of radio traffic will be clear. They work together with the countys (Computer Automated Dispatch) system, which is what is in all the cruisers, EMS squads, the fire trucks. The 911 system and the CAD system all have to work together, Kuelling explained. She gave some details about how they will have to hurry up, and then wait. Full compliance is required within five years, but she said the OARnet is supposed to be done by the end of this year, and already having the compliant system will make it quicker. She is hoping to be done with the first two years, but its dependent on the OARnet system. Kuelling explained what it means to run the 911 system. Functioning to make sure 911 services are operating correctly in Sandusky County, is what we do, in a nutshell, Kuelling said. We oversee all the hardware, software, making sure were within all the standards of the Ohio Revised Code and how 911 call handling is taken care of. We also make sure all the sheriffs dispatchers have all their continuing education for the year, because they have so many hours of continuing ed they have to do each year. Public record requests, that all comes through our office. In Sandusky County, the Sheriffs dispatch system is also linked with the Fremont Police system. Most emergency service dispatch systems are not that closely linked, but Kuelling gave a bit of description and timeline for the upgrades. rlapointe@gannett.com 419-332-2674 This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Sandusky County 911 on course for digital upgrade An embryologist at work in a Virginia reproductive medicine clinic. The plaintiffs in the Alabama case had signed agreements with a fertility clinic, stipulating that unused embryos could be destroyed or used for research. (Ivan Couronne / AFP/Getty Images ) The bizarre decision handed down last week by the Alabama Supreme Court, which ruled that frozen human embryos are people too, is the reductio ad absurdum of the antiabortion movements religious worship of the union of egg and sperm. The court ruled that Alabamas Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, which was enacted in 1872, long before artificial reproductive technology let alone frozen embryos were a gleam in anyones eye, applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location. The ruling is, in a word, preposterous. And Im not the only one who thinks so. As one of the Alabama justices put it, in a partial dissent: To equate an embryo stored in a specialized freezer with a fetus inside of a mother is engaging in an exercise of result-oriented, intellectual sophistry, which I am unwilling to entertain. What, exactly, is a frozen embryo? Its a tiny blob of undifferentiated cells. Some fertility centers freeze them one day after fertilization and some wait five or six days until they become blastocysts, which may be 200- to 300-cell organisms. By any normal definition, these blobs are not children, even though that is how the Alabama Supreme Court justices described them throughout in their opinions and concurrences. The justices also cited Alabamas Sanctity of Unborn Life Act, a constitutional amendment passed overwhelmingly by the states voters in 2018. Voters correctly anticipated that the U.S. Supreme Court would soon overturn Roe vs. Wade and allow states to ban abortion. When the Supreme Court ruled on the Dobbs case in 2022, Alabama immediately criminalized abortion, with no exception for rape or incest. Today, no abortion clinics operate in the state. Read more: Op-Ed: How IVF could be derailed by abortion restrictions The case at hand involves three couples who brought a civil lawsuit against a Mobile, Ala., fertility clinic, the Center for Reproductive Medicine, after their embryos were accidentally destroyed in December 2020 by one of the clinics patients. How that came about is almost as hard to believe as the courts decision. According to court records, a patient managed to wander into the Centers fertility clinic through an unsecured doorway. The patient then entered the cryogenic nursery and removed several embryos. The subzero temperatures at which the embryos had been stored freeze-burned the patients hand causing the patient to drop the embryos on the floor, killing them. At this point, you are probably wondering, as was I, why has this errant patient not been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter? I mean, if a frozen embryo is a legally protected minor child, and all unborn life is sacred, then why on earth would the state of Alabama allow this accidental killer to stay on the loose? Read more: Change may allow scientists to grow human embryos longer In his ruling for the majority, Justice Jay Mitchell mentioned that issue but did not opine on it. He merely acknowledged that in oral arguments, the fertility center defendants argued that individuals cannot be convicted of criminal homicide for causing the death of extrauterine embryos, but since the center had not raised such issues in the lower court, we will not attempt to resolve them here. Another absurd contradiction in this case: All three families the Fondes, the LePages and the Aysennes signed contracts with the fertility center with instructions about how their frozen embryos should be handled. Their embryonic children, wrote Mitchell, were in many respects, treated as non-human property. The Fondes, he wrote, agreed to let the center automatically destroy embryos that remained frozen longer than five years. The LePages opted to donate unused embryos to medical research. The Aysennes agreed to allow any abnormal embryos to be experimented on for research purposes and then discarded. Can someone please explain to me how frozen embryos are legally people but can be experimented upon or discarded when they are no longer wanted? None of this makes any sense. Read more: Divorced couple's frozen embryos must be 'thawed and discarded,' judge rules Many rightfully fear that in vitro fertilization, where egg and sperm meet in a petri dish before implantation in a human uterus, is going to be untenable in places such as Alabama. Fertility centers will face too much legal peril and too much uncertainty. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine denounced the ruling as "profoundly misguided and dangerous." The theocratic impulses of Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Tom Parker were fully, and frighteningly, on display in this case. In a separate special concurrence, Parker sounded as if he were writing a sermon for "The 700 Club" instead of ruling on a question of law. Read more: Abcarian: Desperate abortion foes resort to new tactics while pregnant people find ways to thwart them Human life cannot be wrongfully destroyed without incurring the wrath of a holy God, who views the destruction of His image as an affront to Himself, wrote Parker. [E]ven before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory. To which one can only reply: Are you freaking kidding me? Where, in the mind of a judge like that, is the line that separates church and state? Where is the respect for differing religious beliefs, or no beliefs at all? As Alabama slides toward theocracy, just remember: It is leading the way. Other states and other courts are bound to follow suit. You only need one state to be the first out of the gate, and then the next one will feel less radical," Dana Sussman, deputy executive director of the legal advocacy organization Pregnancy Justice, told the Washington Post. "This is a cause of great concern for anyone that cares about peoples reproductive rights and abortion care. @robinkabcarian 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. Xi stresses boosting guarantee ability of land element for high-quality development of regions with competitive strengths Xinhua) 08:46, February 21, 2024 BEIJING, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, presided over the fourth meeting of the Central Commission for Comprehensively Deepening Reform on the afternoon of Feb. 19. He is also director of the commission. Several documents were reviewed and adopted at the meeting. They are the Guidelines on Reforming Land Management System to Promote the Ability to Guarantee High-quality Development of Regions with Competitive Strengths, the Guidelines on Promoting the Comprehensive Green Transition in the Economic and Social Development, the Guidelines on Further Improving the Primary-level Emergency Management Capacity, the Guidelines on Accelerating the Building of a Foundational System for All-round Innovation, the summary report of the Central Commission for Comprehensively Deepening Reform on its work in 2023, and the commission's key tasks for 2024. Xi emphasized the need to establish and improve a land management system that can more effectively dovetail with macroeconomic policies and regional development, so that the land element can be allocated more accurately and utilized with higher efficiency. Efforts should be made to promote the formation of a territorial space development pattern that imposes effective constraints on the main functions and guarantees coordinated and orderly land development. The land element's ability to guarantee high-quality development of regions that enjoy competitive strengths should also be strengthened. The green transition in all aspects of economic and social development is a fundamental solution to resource, environmental and ecological problems. It is essential to push for a comprehensive, synergetic, innovative and safe transformation. With carbon emissions peaking and carbon neutrality as the goals, concerted efforts must be made to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, expand green development and pursue economic growth, and the idea of green development must be applied in the full course and all aspects of economic and social development. It is important to beef up emergency management capabilities at the primary level, shift more management endeavors to the grassroots level, weigh guarantee policies toward the grassroots, and forward deploy guarding posts, so as to effectively prevent and defuse major safety risks, deal with disasters and accidents in a timely, forceful and efficient manner, and make sure that the line is never crossed in this regard. It is essential to zero in on prominent constraints hindering deeper integration of science and technology with the economy, keep advancing reforms by focusing on what innovation is meant for, who is supposed to organize innovation and how innovation can be incentivized and protected, and accelerate the building of a foundational system for all-round innovation. Li Qiang, Wang Huning and Cai Qi, members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and deputy heads of the Central Commission for Comprehensively Deepening Reform, attended the meeting. It was noted at the meeting that we should better coordinate the regional economic planning and the utilization of land space. Based on the unique functional roles and resource endowments of different regions, we should refine land management policies, improve the efficiency of resource development and utilization, and amplify the exemplary and leading role of regions with competitive strengths. It is essential to make sure that boundaries are not crossed as far as land space management is concerned, strictly safeguard three lines of control -- arable land and permanent basic farmland, ecological conservation and urban development boundaries, and bolster oversight during and after the implementation of policies. For some exploratory yet pressing reform measures, in-depth research must be conducted before they are taken in a cautious and steady manner. It was stressed at the meeting that to promote a holistic green shift in economic and social development, efforts must be made in pivotal sectors of economic and social growth to forge a spatial configuration characterized by green, low-carbon, and high-quality development. It is important to accelerate the green transformation in industrial structures, energy mix, transportation systems, and urban-rural construction and development, making it possible for resource conservation and environmental protection to become a mode of production and a way of life as soon as possible. It is necessary to seize the key links in promoting green transformation, promote all-round conservation, accelerate the transformation of consumption, and strengthen green technology innovation and the popularization and application of advanced green technologies. We need to improve fiscal, tax, financial, investment, and pricing policies and relevant market-oriented mechanisms to support green and low-carbon transformation, and provide policy support and institutional guarantees for green transformation. It was noted at the meeting that it is necessary to straighten up the management system, strengthen the Party's leadership over grassroots emergency management, and give full play to the comprehensive advantages of emergency management departments as well as the professional advantages of relevant departments and relevant parties. The chain of responsibility for "prevention" and "rescue" must be dovetailed, so as to improve the all-encompassing framework for safety and emergency response. It is necessary to improve the working mechanism, promote the formation of a closed-loop management featuring hidden danger detection, risk identification, monitoring and early warning, so that risks can be prevented and detected earlier, and their impact be minimized and addressed in a timely manner. It is essential to improve the guarantee mechanism, increase basic investment, and strengthen the emergency rescue force in accordance with the population size, economic scale, characteristics of disasters and accidents, and degree of safety risks in a region. It is necessary to strengthen the education and training of grassroots officials, and boost the public's awareness of risk prevention and their ability to save themselves and help each other. It was stressed at the meeting that speeding up establishing a foundational system for all-round innovation is an important measure for deepening structural scientific and technological reform and achieving greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology. It is imperative to improve the system under which the CPC Central Committee exercises centralized, unified leadership over science and technology work, and the new system for mobilizing resources nationwide to make key technological breakthroughs. To make up for institutional deficiencies, it is essential to focus on prominent issues concerning the coordination of entities, the allocation of elements, incentives and constraints as well as opening up and security. System design should be strengthened in a classified manner in accordance with the various rules for scientific research, technological development and industrial innovation, and pilot reform projects should be launched first to usher in any major reform. Systematic integration should also be strengthened, and the evaluation of the consistency of policy orientation should be conducted on newly launched measures and newly formulated institutions, so as to ensure consistent efforts to form synergies. It was noted at the meeting that over the past year, we fully implemented the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress, profoundly grasped the new requirements for comprehensively deepening reform as entailed by advancing Chinese modernization, made sound arrangements for the reform work on the new starting point, and made targeted, coordinated and continued efforts, providing vitality and impetus for the start of the new journey. We fully implemented the plans and reform tasks set forth at the 20th CPC National Congress, studied and adopted a series of significant reform documents, and pooled resources to tackle urgent challenges crucial for high-quality development as well as pressing concerns of the people. We carried out reforms of Party and state institutions, improved the Party's leadership systems, optimized the assignment of responsibilities at institutions in science and technology, finance and other key areas, and basically completed the reform at the level of central authorities. Coordinated efforts were made to promote and supervise the implementation of key reform tasks, ensuring that reforms were carried out and delivered results. This year is another important one for comprehensively deepening reform. The primary task is to make plans for further comprehensive reforms, which is not only the sequel of practice in this regard since the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee, but also represents a new chapter of advancing Chinese modernization. It is imperative to stick to the critical move -- reform and opening up to solve the problems in the course of development and tackle the risks and challenges on the way ahead. Efforts must be sustained in effectively implementing the reform measures that help expand domestic demand, optimize structure, boost confidence, safeguard people's wellbeing, and prevent and defuse risks. Concentrated efforts need to be made to solve the most crucial and pressing problems. Major measures should be soundly planned to further reform on all fronts, focusing on the systemic and institutional obstacles that hinder the smooth progress of Chinese modernization. It is essential to clarify the strategic focus, priority order, main direction, and methods for advancing the reform, emphasizing a problem-oriented approach and highlighting key reform tasks in various fields. Reform measures should be distinctly targeted, aiming to solve the most pressing issues with great intensity and high quality. It is vital to fully mobilize the enthusiasm for reform from all sides, further converge consensus on reform, and harness the strength of the entire Party and the nation to advance and implement major reform tasks. It is essential to extensively listen to opinions and suggestions from all quarters, timely summarize fresh experiences created by the general public at the primary level, and motivate Party members and officials to take responsibilities so as to create a robust reform atmosphere, in which people can engage in innovation, strive for practical outcomes, and forge ahead. Members of the Central Commission for Comprehensively Deepening Reform attended the meeting, and leading officials of central Party and state departments sat in on the meeting. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) 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 ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) An Abilene woman has allegedly admitted to sexually abusing two young children. Karon Herold was taken into custody Tuesday for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child in connection to the allegations. Court documents state one child came forward to a trusted adult in May 2023, claiming that Herolds boyfriend was sexually abusing him. When this trusted adult confronted Herold, the documents state she confessed to sexually abusing this child plus a second child, and admitted her boyfriend did as well. Both children were under the age of 5 when the alleged abuse occurred. Herold is now being held in the Taylor County Jail on a $200,000 bond. BigCountryHomepage.com is choosing to withhold the identity of her boyfriend until he is officially arrested and charged. No further information is available at this time. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. This drawing shows Abraham Lincoln on horseback as he tips his hat in front of his frame house in Springfield, Ill., where he lived and practiced law from 1835 until he became president in 1861. | Associated Press President Joe Bidens great-great-grandfather was pardoned by former President Abraham Lincoln, according to U.S. National Archives records. Historian David J. Gerleman explained in The Washington Post that the historic documents are the hidden link between the two men and between two presidents across the centuries. Gerleman wrote that the slender sheaf of 22 well-preserved pages of his trial transcript, unobtrusively squeezed among many hundreds of other routine court-martial cases in the National Archives, shares a story that has waited 160 years to be told. Related The story that links Lincoln and Biden Axios reported that Bidens great-great-grandfather had engaged in a Civil War-era brawl that saw him charged with attempted murder. These documents reportedly reveal that Bidens ancestor, Moses J. Robinette, got into a fight with a Union Army civilian employee as they were camped near Beverly Ford, Virginia, along the Rappahannock River on March 12, 1864. The other man involved in the fight, John J. Alexander, bled from knife wounds and Robinette ended up being charged with attempted murder and was incarcerated near Florida, according to Fox News. The fight was reportedly a result of Alexander rushing at Robinette after overhearing Robinette saying something about him to a cook. CBS News reported that Robinette said he thought that Alexander possibly might have injured me seriously had I not resorted to the means I did. The charges against Robinette stated that he was intoxicated and had incited a dangerous quarrel, and deemed that since a weapon was involved, there was an intent to kill on Robinettes part, according to USA Today. Related Why did Lincoln pardon Bidens great-great-grandfather? Fox News reported that three of Robinettes friends who were officers in the U.S. Army petitioned Lincoln directly to overturn Robinettes sentence. Robinette reportedly wrote a letter in an attempt to overturn the conviction with John S. Burdett, David L. Smith and Samuel R. Steel arguing that Robinettes sentence was excessive for a man defending himself and cutting with a penknife a teamster much his superior in strength and size, all under the impulse of the excitement of the moment. The petition said that Robinette was a true and faithful supporter of the Union and had opposed traitors and their schemes to destroy the government. Lincoln reportedly agreed with the request and wrote, Pardon for unexecuted part of punishment. A. Lincoln. Sep. 1. 1864. Those few pages not only fill an unknown piece of Biden family history, but also serve as a reminder of just how many Civil War stories have yet to be told, Gerleman wrote. Read the documents in full on DocumentCloud. A previous victim of the man accused of killing a Queens mom sex worker in a SoHo hotel believes that if authorities in Florida had heeded her warnings, the slain woman would be alive today. Leah Palian, 26, first met Raad Almansoori last year when the two were working at an Orlando, Fla. restaurant, she told the Daily News. Months after she says he attacked her, on the day of the SoHo hotel slaying he called her, breaking an order of protection, to ask why she had treated him so badly, she says. He would eventually commit a horrifying sexual assault against her and come close to taking her life, she said. Almansoori, whom Palian knew as Noah, was identified by police Tuesday as a suspect in the murder of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38. She was a sex worker and Queens mother who was found strangled and struck in the head with an iron inside Soho 54 hotel on Watts St. near Sixth Ave. on Feb. 8, according to police. Noah and I start working together and he was really odd, Palian said late Tuesday. Hes very socially reserved, very quiet and a lot of the other people at the restaurant didnt like him. He has poor social skills. The two worked in the kitchen together and bonded as they were isolated from the other workers in the restaurant, Palian continued. He definitely gave off serial killer vibes, she said of Almansoori. In fact, a lot of our other co-workers said that verbatim. Almansoori described his upbringing in Phoenix, Ariz., as a traumatic one, claiming to Palian that his parents abused him. I started to get a soft spot for Noah because hes been through so much, she said. He just wants somebody to care about him and he doesnt know how to get this across. In April 2023, Palian noticed Almansoori rode his bike to work, a 35 minute trip by car. I drove him home and I guess he developed a bond or attachment to me and so I start giving him rides home from work on nights we worked together, she said. One day he asked, Can you take me home and can you take me to the shop to get the car? The woman agreed but asked Almansoori if he would sleep on her couch to avoid a long drive in the morning to his home in a neighboring city. As the two shared a glass of wine, Almansoori turned into this really mean, really horrendous person, Palian recalled. He drank half a glass and hes immediately incoherent, she said. Its as if hes black-out drunk. Palian shook off the strange encounter and headed to bed, leaving Almansoori to sleep on her couch. I wake up the next day and Noah is bear hugging me in my bed, she said. And Im like, this is not OK. I tell him get off of me get out of my room. Almansoori refused to leave and the two went back and forth for about an hour before the man said he was in love with Palian, grabbed her phone and then her, she recounted. He used my face to unlock my phone, Palian said. He starts going through my phone and he had gone through and blocked men I was kind of flirting with. When he saw a text Palian had sent the night before to a friend recounting Almansooris strange behavior, he flew off the handle. He went over and closed my blinds, Palian said. It was uncomfortable but I didnt think my life was at risk here. Almansoori then locked her front door and closed off any windows and doors that exposed them to anyone outside. He got on top of me and starts strangling me with a dead look in his eyes, Palian said. He said, Scream and Ill kill you. She described Almansoori as a large, muscular man, adding that she could do nothing but lay there and hope that it stopped. He said, I hate that I have to do this, I hate that I have to kill you, Palian said. His eyes were completely black. He knew where to grab he immediately cut off my oxygen. Suddenly, Almansoori let up and Palian sat up and gasped for breath. I said, Noah, what the fk was that? Palian said. And he said, You made the devil come out of my body. I said, This is not normal, this is some serial killer st,' she added. I feared for my life. Palian tried to figure a way out of the apartment without him catching her, but she couldnt, she said. As Almansoori held her prisoner in her home, she worked to calm him down, empathizing with his childhood trauma. Hes like, youre going to tell people about this and Im like no, Im not, Palian said. Im doing anything can at this point [to calm him down]. She then noticed Almansoori had an erection and told her to move into her bedroom, where he forced her to perform oral sex on him. It was like he was so thrilled and so aroused he had just strangled someone almost to the point of death, Palian said. I kept thinking Im going to die here in my apartment. Palian eventually convinced Almansoori to let her drive him to pick up his car at the mechanic, but the suspicious man kept an eye on her as he took the keys and got in the drivers seat. He was, like, holding me hostage, Palian said. He is watching me like a hawk. Convinced Almansoori would kill her if she let him drive her out of Orlando, she pleaded with him to stop at a gas station so she could use the bathroom. I was just like, Im a girl and its embarrassing to go in front of your boyfriend or something and he bought it, Palian said. He let me go to a 7-Eleven. Palian barreled into the convenience store, locked herself in the bathroom and called 911. At the same time, Almansoori was texting her repeatedly, asking what was taking so long. He comes in and bangs on the bathroom stall, Palian said of Almansoori. The banging stops and a couple minutes [later], I hear keys jingling and someones trying to unlock the door. Noah got the manager and told him his friends not responding. Once Almansoori gained access to the bathroom, Palian told the manager he tried to kill her and that she needed help. Almansoori took off, stole Palians car and fled the 7-Eleven. The next day, police found him in her stolen car on the side of a highway two hours north or Orlando, Palian said. He even pawned my bike that was in the car, she said. I thought this would be a closed case and he would be off the street. Almansoori was first hit with a slew of charges including kidnapping, sexual assault, physical assault and attempted murder, Palian recalled. I told the state attorneys office flat out that if you give this man a slap on the wrist, he will hurt someone else and become a serial killer, Palian said. No action was taken on any of the charges except grand theft of a motor vehicle, Orange County, Fla., record show, with authorities telling Palian there was not enough evidence to pursue any of the other charges. They didnt even move forward with the stolen bike charge, she scoffed. They failed on so many levels. They let go of so many of the violent charges [against] a woman. Had they not failed me the first time, none of these things would have been able to happen, Palian added. The Florida attorney generals office did not immediately answer a News request for comment. In September,. Almansoori paid his own bail to get out of jail and stayed in Florida for several months before flying to New York Jan. 26, according to police. Between Feb. 7 and 8, he met Oleas-Arancibia in her hotel room at the SoHo 54 and killed her, cops allege. Around 8 p.m. Feb. 8, Almansoori called Palian despite the woman having an order of protection that barred him from doing so, she said. All I could think to say was, why are you calling me, Palian said. He said, I just wanted to know how you feel about what happened. I was like, when you tried to end my life? On Tuesday, detectives that handled Palians case in Florida called her to notify her that Almansoori is a suspect in Oleas-Arancibias murder. The first thing out of my mouth was, oh, my God, I told them this would happen, Palian said. I shouted that over and over. I was in a state of shock; I was in a state of disbelief, she added. I knew he was capable of doing this and no one took me seriously. It was infuriating and heartbreaking. Almansoori is being held in a Maricopa County, Ariz., jail after he followed a woman McDonalds employee into a bathroom, held her against her will and stabbed her repeatedly, according to authorities. The incident happened in the town of Surprise. Maricopa County prosecutors charged Almansoori with attempted murder, aggravated assault and theft for that stabbing, as well as robbery, assault, theft and criminal damage for a separate attack in Phoenix. The Manhattan district attorneys office will begin the extradition request to bring Almansoori back to New York a lengthy process, according to police. I just want to emphasize how badly the state of Florida failed us as women, Palian said. Not only me, but allowed these atrocities to happen when they had every opportunity to prevent it. New York Citys child welfare agency routinely uses coercive tactics to search families homes and even strip-search their children, according to a landmark class-action lawsuit filed Tuesday that aims to fundamentally transform how the city investigates reports of child abuse and neglect. The nine named plaintiffs claimed in Brooklyn federal court that caseworkers from the Administration for Childrens Services lie to parents, withhold information about their rights, and threaten to involve police or remove children to enter their homes without a court order or true emergency. The lawsuit seeks to stop those practices. When ACS comes, they treat me like a criminal in my own home, said Shavona Warmington, a Queens mom of six children and one of the plaintiffs. They give no respect to my wishes. They come banging the doors so loud that the neighbors came out wanting to know what was going on. The caseworkers dont show identification and they threaten to bring the police if I dont allow them entry. ACS conducted close to 53,000 investigations of local families last year, but sought court orders in only 222 of them, court documents show. Absent an immediate threat to their children, the families charge that caseworkers are violating their Fourth Amendment rights by pressuring them into unreasonable searches and intrusions by the government. Once they are inside, they open every cabinet, search the refrigerators, strip search my children and ask them questions when I am not present, Warmington said. That is traumatizing. The investigation was ultimately unfounded, according to the lawsuit. But before ACS closed the probe in 2021, three of Warmingtons children were strip-searched, the youngest who was 1 year old at the time. Marisa Kaufman, a spokeswoman for ACS, said the agency is expanding an initiative to inform families of their rights during child welfare probes and reduce the number of baseless reports called into the state. ACS is committed to keeping children safe and respecting parents rights, she said. We will continue to advance our efforts to achieve safety, equity, and justice by enhancing parents awareness of their rights, connecting families to critical services, providing families with alternatives to child protection investigations, and working with key systems to reduce the number of families experiencing an unnecessary child protective investigation. The majority of child welfare investigations, more than 7 in 10, are ultimately unfounded, and advocates charge stem from family poverty, not parent wrongdoing such as inadequate food, clothing or shelter. Even among those investigations that ACS does find enough evidence of child maltreatment, few lead to a case filed in family court. ACS has been operating for decades with a no harm, no foul mentality. That when they conduct an investigation, and the caseworkers dont find anything concerning, Well, we did our job,' said David Shalleck-Klein, an attorney for the plaintiffs and the founder and executive director of the Family Justice Law Center. What families that have been impacted have been saying for years now is that there is harm, and there is foul. Its not about saying ACS cant go into families homes. Of course they can. Its just that they have to do it legally: They get actual consent or theres a real emergency. Or they need to show a judge they have probable cause, he said. The lawsuit alleges that a lack of adequate training and supervision caseworkers receive about Fourth Amendment rights is a deliberate choice by ACS to encourage the widespread use of coercive tactics and to press families to let them in without a court order. In 2020, a report commissioned by ACS itself found that caseworkers felt pressured to not tell parents their rights. ACS believes that the Fourth Amendment does not apply to the agency, said another attorney for the plaintiffs, Audra Soloway of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. The lawsuit is also being brought by Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP and the NYU School of Law Family Defense Clinic. The trauma inflicted by home searches disproportionately falls on Black and Hispanic families, who each year make up the majority of cases ACS investigates. A Black child in the city has a 50-50 chance of being subjected to a child welfare probe, court documents show. Warmington, who is Black, said her family will forever be negatively impacted by ACS. It is a slap in the face, she said, when the agency assigned to help us only succeeds in doing more harm. Mecklenburg County and the state of North Carolina recognized an activist responsible for helping dozens of students across Charlotte go to college. Large anniversary donation made to local nonprofit that helps Charlotte youth John T. Crawford was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine during a surprise ceremony Tuesday night at the Mecklenburg County commissioners meeting. Thats the highest award the state can present to a civilian. Crawford founded Greater Steps Scholars back in 1983. The program provides scholarships for students who live in public housing. WSOC LINK: Black History Month This community has recognized what Ive tried to do over the years, said Crawford. Its been a lot of years. Ive tried to do things to make this community a better place and to help, especially the children of this community. Crawford said he hopes the endowment they have for students will soon reach $10 million, so they can help even more with higher education. A former friend of accused child murderer Adam Montgomery has revealed the reason why he allegedly hated his five-year-old daughter Harmony. Rebecca Maines took the stand at Montgomerys ongoing trial in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Tuesday. Montgomery is facing a charge of second-degree murder and has conceded two lesser charges of abuse of a corpse and falsifying information in Harmonys death. According to the prosecution, Montgomery beat his daughter to death after she soiled herself inside the family car in December 2019. He hid and moved her remains around for two months, before disposing of them in an unknown location in March 2020. On Tuesday, Ms Maines testified that she and Montgomery met in 2021 when they were both recovering addicts. Ms Maines called Montgomery her best friend and told the court that they had spent a lot of time travelling together before Montgomerys arrest in late 2022. During her testimmony, Ms Maines, a former nurse, recalled an instance in which Montgomery reportedly admitted to her that he hated Harmony. Did he tell you how that made him feel? prosecutor Ben Agati asked. He said he hated her, right to his core, Ms Maines answered. It reminded him of her mother. Rebecca Maines testifies during the trial of the Adam Montgomery at Hillsborough County Superior Court (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Montgomery reportedly told Ms Maines that Harmony lived with her mother in Massachusetts. Montgomery also discussed Harmonys bathroom accidents and said he would put her in the corner whenever she soiled herself, Ms Maines told jurors. He told me that he dropped [Harmony] off at her mothers, Ms Maines recalled. He said that her mother would not allow him to see her and that he had been trying for some time. When asked about the reason Montgomery gave for returning Harmony to her mother, Ms Maines said: Because she continuously s*** her pants, [he said.] ...He said it was on purpose. According to testimony from Montgomerys estranged wife Kayla Montgomery last week, he repeatedly beat Harmony in the head on 7 December 2019, killing her. He then only realised Harmony had died hours later, after driving to a fast food restaurant and buying drugs from a friend. Kayla also told jurors about the rampant abuse that Harmony endured at the hands of her father. She said Harmony was often kept under a blanket to hide her severely bruised body and bloody face from strangers. On Tuesday, the prosecution rested its case following testimony from more than two dozen witnesses, including Harmomys biological mother and her foster parents. Judge Amy Messina told jurors that deliberations could begin by the end of the week. In the movie directed by Sweden's Johan Renck ('Chernobyl'), Sandler's character Jakub embarks on an epic journey searching for the origins of the universe (Tobias SCHWARZ) Adam Sandler said Wednesday that playing a lonely astronaut hurtling through space in his latest Netflix movie convinced him of the therapeutic effects of total isolation. The US actor, at the Berlin film festival for the world premiere of his all-star sci-fi picture "Spaceman", said his hectic schedule left little room for the kind of reflection that he found at the outer reaches of the galaxy. "I don't have that much time to be alone. I get like maybe eight minutes tops and then I have to do something," Sandler told reporters. "So being alone on a spaceship -- I think I recommend that to a lot of people, to most of you, every one of you," he quipped. "Spaceman" is the latest release in a multi-picture deal Sandler signed with Netflix. It sees the popular comic and romcom hero return to the dramatic key of critical favourites like "Uncut Gems". In the movie directed by Sweden's Johan Renck ("Chernobyl"), Sandler's character Jakub embarks on an epic journey searching for the origins of the universe. But while the endeavour makes him a national hero, it estranges him from his pregnant wife back home played by British actor Carey Mulligan. As the psychological pressure mounts in the space capsule, Jakub is shocked by the sudden appearance of a giant, inquisitive spider (Paul Dano) who speaks to him and draws him out of his depression. "He basically tells me to stop running away," Sandler said of Dano's character. "You can allow yourself to keep throwing blocks up to reality and what's painful... when you have something right here that is beautiful and perfect." - 'Half mad' - Mulligan, who is nominated for an Oscar next month for her role in "Maestro", described Sandler as "the best, fun and the easiest person to act with because he's so truthful and beautiful and soulful". "What's arresting about him in the spaceship on his own is that it's like some part of his soul has been crushed," she said. "He looks half alive, or half mad, and I don't know how he did that with his eyes and his face," she said of Sandler. Mulligan said she wished "we could all have a little friendly spider... to be able to just refocus us on the things that matter". Dano ("The Fabelmans"), who lends his voice to the computer-generated arachnid, said his character was happy to help Jakub remember what he knew all along. "I think we all could use a kind shoulder, a kind set of eyes to be there for us," he said. "Spaceman" is screening out of competition at the 74th Berlin film festival, which wraps up Sunday. dlc/fec/giv Television and pictures of living things were banned under the previous Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, but a similar edict has so far not been imposed since authorities took back power in Afghanistan in 2021 (Wakil KOHSAR) A Taliban official said journalists were committing "a major sin" by taking pictures, Afghan media reported on Wednesday. Television and pictures of living things were banned under the previous Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, but a similar edict has so far not been imposed since authorities took back power in Afghanistan in 2021. "Taking pictures is a major sin," Mohammad Hashem Shaheed Wror, a senior official in the justice ministry, told a seminar for department staff in the capital Kabul on Tuesday, according to footage broadcast by several media. "Our media friends, Afghans, they are always busy in this sin and always pulled towards immorality." Officials in the Taliban birthplace of Kandahar were ordered this week not to take any images of living things, but the ban did not extend to media or the public, the spokesperson for Kandahar's governor Mahmood Azzam told AFP. Images of humans and animals are generally avoided in Islamic art, extending for some Muslims to an aversion to any images of living things. Several media outlets have refrained from using images of people and animals since the Taliban returned to power more than two years ago. However, official central government departments frequently distribute and share pictures of senior officials meeting foreign dignitaries. bur-sw/ecl/tym RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) Attorney General Jason Miyares has launched a new advertising campaign for his One Pill Can Kill initiative. Virginia AG Miyares launches One Pill Can Kill counterfeit pills public awareness campaign The campaign will include a website and a digital/social media presence along with PSAs for television. Additionally, statewide billboards are expected to go up later in February. Launched in 2022, the initiative aims to generate open, honest conversations amongst families about the extreme threat that counterfeit drugs and opioids pose. The opioid epidemic has impacted every corner of the Commonwealth. Its through education, prevention, and accessible resources that Virginians can fight back against the threat opioids and fake prescription pills present to us and to our loved ones, said Attorney General Miyares. One Pill Can Kill is the product of federal and state programs working together to combat the fentanyl and opioid crisis facing our country. It will encourage open, honest conversations amongst families to ensure the health, safety, and prosperity of all Virginians. DEA agents say they have seen a significant rise in the number of fake pills containing at least 2 mg of fentanyl. In 2023, the agency seized 74.5 million fentanyl pills exceeding 2022s total of 58 million pills. To learn more about the public awareness initiative visit onepillcankillva.org. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. A New Hampshire man is facing charges after allegedly attempting to sway a judges ruling on his ongoing divorce proceedings. Carlos Dorego, 55, of Shelburne, New Hampshire allegedly sent an unsolicited text message to the circuit court judge on February 14 attempting to influence the judge in connection with his ongoing divorce proceedings. Dorego was arrested on one class B felony county of improper influence contrary to RSA 640:3, the AGs office says. Improper influence is punishable by up to 7 years in the New Hampshire State Prison and a $4,000 fine. Dorego is scheduled to be arraigned at 8:00 a.m. on March 27, 2024, in the 1st Circuit Berlin District Division. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Ukraine's Air Force. Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine The Russians have attacked Ukraine with six missiles and 19 Shahed kamikaze drones on the night of 20-21 February. Ukraines Air Force has managed to down a missile and 13 Russian drones. Source: Ukraines Air Force on Telegram Details: The Air Force reported that the Russians launched a S-300 anti-aircraft guided missile and four Kh-22 cruise missiles from Russias Rostov Oblast, a Kh-59 guided air missile from Belgorod Oblast and 19 Shahed drones from the Russian city of Primorsko-Akhtarsk. Quote: "As a result of combat work, a Kh-59 guided air missile was destroyed in Poltava Oblast and 13 of the 19 Shahed drones [were downed] within Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk oblasts." Details: The Air Force added that some of the six unhit Russian UAVs did not reach their targets. Anti-aircraft units and mobile fire groups of the Air Force and Defence Forces, as well as electronic warfare equipment, were involved in repelling the air attack. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraines Air Force has no information on the transfer of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia that can hit targets at a distance of 300-700 kilometres. Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesman for the Air Force of Ukraine, on air during the national joint 24/7 newscast Quote: "We know [about the supply of Iranian missiles to Russia ed.] as much as open sources of information allow us to know. And, secondly, Defence Intelligence of Ukraine has already responded to this information. They said there was no confirmed data. But this does not mean that there is no such threat. We have been talking about Iranian ballistic missiles with a range of 300-700 kilometres for more than a year now. There is a possibility that Iran may conclude some kind of agreement with Russia... We are well aware that this poses a serious threat to us. But, so far, our official sources of information have no such data on the receipt of such a number of missiles." Background: On Wednesday, Reuters, with reference to six sources, reported that since the beginning of 2024, Iran had already sent several batches of its surface-to-surface ballistic missiles to Russia as part of agreements to deepen cooperation between the two countries. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian air defense units destroyed 13 of the 19 Shahed drones Russia launched overnight, and one Kh-59 guided missile, the Air Force reported on Feb. 21. The drones were launched from Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia, and the Kh-59 missile from Russia's Belgorod Oblast. Russian forces also launched an S-300 anti-aircraft missile, as well as four Kh-22 cruise missiles from Russia's Rostov Oblast. The weapons were intercepted over Poltava, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Donetsk oblasts. Mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Air Force were involved in repelling the air attacks. Drone attacks are a daily occurrence in Ukraine, affecting various regions across the country. Overnight on Feb. 20, Ukraines air defense downed 23 of 23 Russian drone launched at Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities have continuously expected Russian attacks over the course of the winter, with Moscow focusing on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and other civilian sites. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Kyiv asks UN, Red Cross to investigate execution of Ukrainian POWs in Avdiivka Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Ukrainian Air Force says it is unclear exactly when Ukraine will receive the F-16 fighter jets, but they are eagerly anticipated as soon as possible. Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, in an interview with Ukrinform Quote: "Pilots are undergoing retraining, infrastructure is adapting, temporary shelters are being constructed, and improvements are being made to the take-off and landing strip. Given the wartime conditions, we cannot build F-16 infrastructure on a large scale according to NATO country standards, but the planes can still operate from what we have. Currently, no one knows exactly when Ukraine will receive the F-16s. We are eagerly anticipating their arrival as soon as possible. I want to emphasise that Ukraine is transitioning to the F-16s in an emergency manner, unlike any other country. There is an expectation that the planes will arrive, and that's it it's victory. However, you understand that initially, a small group of pilots will arrive, and begin working in the sky, and, of course, Russia will react accordingly. But the process of training pilots and increasing their numbers in Ukraine will gradually unfold." Details: Ihnat emphasised that Ukraine will not receive 40, 70, or 120 aircraft simultaneously. Moreover, they will not be the latest modifications. However, the process is underway, pilots are already flying the fighters, conducting flights with instructors, Ihnat stressed. And all of this is also being done in an accelerated manner. Quote: "Ukrainian pilots must fully master the technology, and operate independently without instructors. Training flights are underway. They are learning tactical manoeuvres to conduct interceptions of airborne targets, primarily. Since it is a multi-role aircraft, they must also practise tasks involving ground and surface targets. Therefore, our pilots are doing this in an emergency manner, as I mentioned in an accelerated mode, because the usual retraining course takes 2 years. And we are doing it much faster. We have a clear plan of action, and according to it, the training of pilots and engineers is progressing." Support UP or become our patron! The Russian army have launched several groups of attack UAVs onto the territory of Ukraine on the evening of 21 February. Source: Air Force on Telegram; Philip Pronin, Head of Poltava Oblast Military Administration Details: In particular, as of 21:32, the military warned of several groups of UAVs between Kirovohrad and Dnipro oblasts, heading north/northeast; UAVs in Pyatikhatky district of Dnipro Oblast, heading north-east; in Novi Sanzhary district of Poltava Oblast, heading north (Poltava); on the border between Kharkiv, Sumy and Poltava oblasts, heading north-west; and in the area of the Kamianske Reservoir, heading north/northeast. At 21:53, the Air Force clarified that several groups of Shahed UAVs were moving in the southern, central and northern districts of Poltava Oblast, heading for Sumy Oblast. At 22:54, the head of the Poltava Oblast Military Administration said that the Russian occupiers had attacked Poltava Oblast with several groups of UAVs. The sounds of explosions were heard in Myrhorod district. Preliminary reports indicate that there were no casualties or damage. Support UP or become our patron! BROCKTON National Margarita Day is right around the corner. Every Feb. 22, the classic tequila-based drink is celebrated across the U.S., and what better way to brighten up a cold snowy New England winter than with a drink reminiscent of beaches, palm trees and sunshine? Created in 1938 in Mexico, the margarita typically consists of triple sec, tequila and lime juice. But at these Brockton and Taunton-area restaurants, the flavor combinations are endless. Weather you order it on the rocks, frozen or shaken, theres something here for everyone. Here are five great places to get margaritas in the Brockton and Taunton area. This margarita is topped off with fruit, served at Avocados in Stoughton, Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. Avocados Mexican Restaurant (Stoughton) At Avocados Mexican Restaurant in Stoughton, margaritas come in hefty portions. The most popular order is the special margarita, according to a staff member at the restaurant. Although flavored margaritas, including strawberry, peach, mango, blackberry and more, are also big hits. The star of the night was the blackberry margarita, wrote one reviewer on Yelp. The house tequila was smooth, and the blackberry flavoring was not too sweet or too sour. I would definitely go back! Open on Thursday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. avocadosmexicanrestaurantma.com, 809 Washington St., Stoughton, 781-436-3297 'Delicious Mexican food' Avocados serves up sizzling birria, ceviche and passion fruit margs in Stoughton Casa Vallarta (Brockton) With 15 different margarita options to choose from, Casa Vallarta in Brockton has it all. Choose from a classic house margarita or one of their eight different flavored variations including strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, kiwi, peach, mango, or banana. Enjoy your margarita with a live mariachi band on Thursdays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Open on Thursday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. casavallarta.us, 610 Oak St., Brockton, 508-857-0401 El Mariachi (Easton, Taunton) El Marlachi in Easton co-owner Roberto Arechiga makes a margarita on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. At El Mariachi in Easton and Taunton, margaritas are always a popular choice. We recommend you start with the cucumber margarita, they wrote on their website. That along with the strawberry margarita, is one of the most requested cocktails in our restaurant. The house margaritas were excellent! wrote one reviewer on Yelp. Strong, large and in charge! We had to wait a moment before driving and I didn't even drink the whole thing. Open on Thursday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. elmariachimr.com, 620 Washington St., Easton, 508-230-5900; 44 Taunton Green, Taunton, 508-821-5953 'Amazing drinks' Fruit margaritas until 1 a.m. and savory Mexican dishes spice up Easton restaurant scene Fiestas Mexican Restaurant (East Bridgewater) Looking for a healthier margarita option? Try the skinny margarita at Fiestas Mexican Restaurant in East Bridgewater. Its one of the more popular orders at the restaurant, said a staff member. Its low calorie and made with 100% blue agave tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed lime juice, organic agave and club soda. Open on Thursday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. fiestasmexican.net, 34 Bedford St., East Bridgewater, 508-350-0200 'My other family' Longtime East Bridgewater waitress surprised with trip to Cancun Stoneforge Grill (Easton) Stoneforge Grill in Easton Cant decide on just one drink flavor? Head over to Stoneforge Grill in Easton for a three-flavor margarita flight as part of their special winter drink menu. The flight comes with apple, blackberry and winter citrus margaritas made with Torada Tequila. Open on Thursday, Feb. 22, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. stoneforgegrill.com, 10 Roosevelt Cir., Easton, 508-238-0550 This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Mexican restaurants in Brockton, Taunton area with special margaritas Multi-billionaire Jeff Bezos has sold another 14 million Amazon shares, worth around $2.4bn (1.9bn). The latest sale brings the total number of shares he has sold in the firm over the last nine trading days to about 50 million, with a value of around $8.5bn. The tech giant had previously said Mr Bezos would sell up to 50 million shares by the end of January 2025. His sales of Amazon stock comes after they have risen by more than 76% in the past year. Mr Bezos, who is the firm's founder and executive chair, had previously last sold Amazon shares in 2021. He has also given away shares in Amazon as part of his philanthropy, most recently in 2022. As Mr Bezos moved to Miami in Florida from Seattle in Washington last year, he will save almost $600m in tax on the $8.5bn worth of stock he has sold. Gains above $250,000 from the sale of shares or other long term investments, are taxed at 7% in Washington state. Florida does not have state taxes on incomes or capital gains. However, he will still be liable to federal taxes as a result of selling the shares. When Mr Bezos announced his move to Florida it prompted speculation over whether it was because of a potential tax bill he would have faced in Washington after the state approved a new tax on large stock sales. Mr Bezos said in November that his parents had recently moved back to Miami where he spent some of his childhood and that he wanted to be close to them and to his Blue Origin space project, which was "increasingly shifting to Cape Canaveral". "Lauren and I love Miami," he wrote on Instagram, referring to his fiancee Lauren Sanchez. "For all that, I'm planning to return to Miami, leaving the Pacific Northwest," he added. Mr Bezos remains Amazon's biggest shareholder and is one of the richest people in the world, with an estimated fortune of more than $190bn. Amazon did not immediately respond to a BBC request for comment. A flight attendant accused of surreptitiously recording or attempting to record a teen using the bathroom on an American Airlines flight last year appeared Tuesday in Boston federal court and agreed to voluntary confinement until trial. Estes Carter Thompson III, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was arrested earlier this year and charged with one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children and one count of possession of child pornography depicting a prepubescent minor. According to the charging documents, the 36-year-old suspect allegedly concealed his iPhone on the underside of the toilet lid in an airplanes lavatory and tried to film a 14-year-old female passenger using it. The incident happened midway through an American Airlines flight from Charlotte to Boston on Sept. 2, 2023, while he was working as a flight attendant. Officials said the teen got up to use the restroom but found it was occupied. Thompson then allegedly led her to use the first-class lavatory but told her he needed to wash his hands first. He also allegedly told her the toilet seat was broken. When the teen entered the lavatory, she saw the concealed iPhone, took a photo of it, and showed it to her parents, officials said. The parents then reported the incident to the other attendants onboard the flight. Thompson was arrested after landing at Bostons Logan Airport. Even though his phone had already been restored to factory settings by then, officials said a search of his iCloud account revealed four additional instances between January and August 2023 in which Thompson had recorded a minor using the lavatory on an aircraft. Those victims were 7, 9, 11 and 14 years old, investigators said. Additionally, more than 50 images of a 9-year-old unaccompanied minor were allegedly found in Thompsons iCloud including close-up shots of her face when she was sleeping, officials added. Thompson was immediately withheld from service following the September 2023 incident, American Airlines previously said in a statement. During his initial court appearance on Tuesday, Thompson did not enter a plea. The charge of attempted sexual exploitation of children carries a sentence of at least 15 years and up to 30 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography depicting a prepubescent minor carries a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison. Both charges provide for at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 and restitution. A 33-year-old amateur ballerina with dual U.S.-Russian citizenship has been detained in Russia and is facing life in prison for allegedly donating $51 to Ukraines war effort. Russia's main domestic intelligence agency, the Federal Security Service, reported the womans arrest on charges of treason. The FSB said the woman is a resident of Los Angeles, California and accused her of collecting money for the Ukrainian military. Ksenia Karelina, pictured here in custody, is reported to be a resident of Los Angeles. "Since February 2022, she has proactively collected funds in the interests of one of the Ukrainian organizations, which were subsequently used to purchase tactical medicine, equipment, weapons and ammunition by the Ukrainian Armed Forces," the FSB said. "In addition, in the United States, this citizen repeatedly took part in public actions in support of the Kyiv regime." The independent news outlet Mediazona identified the woman as Ksenia Karelina and said that she had received U.S. citizenship after marrying an American. The outlet reported that Karelina allegedly transferred around $51 to "Razom for Ukraine," a nonprofit Ukrainian group. US VETERAN PAUL WHELAN FEELS ABANDONED AS HE REMAINS IMPRISONED IN RUSSIA: A SERIOUS BETRAYAL White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the White House and the State Department were aware of reports of the arrest and added that "we are trying to get more information and to secure some consular access to that individual." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Kirby refrained from further comment due to respect for privacy, but reiterated "our very strong warnings about the danger posed to U.S. citizens inside Russia." "If you're a U.S. citizen, including a dual national residing in or traveling in Russia, you ought to leave right now," he said. Ksenia Karelina holds dual U.S.-Russian citizenship. U.S. State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller noted that when it comes to dual citizens of the United States and Russia, Moscow "does not recognize dual citizenship, it considers them to be Russian citizens first and foremost," giving U.S. diplomats a difficult time getting consular assistance. "What happened to Ksenia Karelina is very sad. It really hits home for me as someone who fled Soviet Russia more than 30 years ago and whose daughter is a ballerina," said former DIA intelligence officer Rebekah Koffler. "But its hardly surprising. Putins regime has always used hostage diplomacy as a form of statecraft and now that the confrontation between Moscow and Washington is at its highest ever, the Kremlin is ratcheting up this tactic to the maximum. No American, especially of Russian or Slavic descent, should go to Russia," Koffler said. PUTIN DENIES US CLAIMS THAT RUSSIA HAS INTENTION TO USE NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN SPACE She added: "Moreover, no one should be holding dual US-Russian citizenship or both passports. For the Russian state -- if you are born in Russia, you are always Russian, not American, by law. Similarly, when you are born in the U.S., you are automatically a U.S. citizen, with minor exceptions, unless you renounce your citizenship. Having dual US-Russian citizenship is asking for it, asking for trouble, nowadays." Razom for Ukraine's CEO Dora Chomiak said the organization was "appalled by the reports of Karelina's arrest. "Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly shown that he holds no sovereign border, foreign nationality, or international treaty above his own narrow interest. His regime attacks civil society activists who stand up for freedom and democracy, Chomiak said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Razom calls on the U.S. government to continue to do everything in its power to demand that President Putin release all those unjustly detained by Russia and to hold Russias political and military leadership accountable for their unprovoked invasion of Ukraine." The news of Karelinas arrest comes as a Russian court ruled to keep Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in custody pending his trial on espionage charges that he denies. The Moscow City Court rejected an appeal against Gershkovich's detention filed by his lawyers, upholding an earlier ruling to keep him behind bars until the end of March. That means Gershkovich, 32, will spend at least a year behind bars in Russia after his arrest in March 2023 while on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg in the Ural Mountains. Gershkovich and the Journal have denied the espionage allegations, and the U.S. government has declared him to be wrongfully detained. Russian authorities haven't detailed any evidence to support the charges. In December, the U.S. State Department said that Russia had rejected several proposals for freeing Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan who has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government dispute. Whelan was sentenced to 16 years in prison. Some analysts have noted that Moscow may be using jailed Americans as bargaining chips after U.S.-Russian tensions soared when Russia sent troops into Ukraine. At least two U.S. citizens arrested in Russia in recent years, including WNBA star Brittney Griner, have been exchanged for Russians jailed in the U.S. Original article source: American ballerina with dual citizenship arrested in Russia, facing life in prison for donating $51 to Ukraine Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich remains in good health and spirits despite Russia extending the journalists pretrial detention on espionage charges through at least the end of March, the U.S. ambassador to Russia said on Wednesday. Gershkovich, 32, will remain held at the notorious Lefortovo Prison in Moscow until at least March 30, after a Russian court rejected his latest appeal on Tuesday. He was first detained in late March 2023 while reporting in Yekaterinburg, the fourth-largest city in Russia, and accused of espionage. "Journalism is not a crime," U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy said in a statement Wednesday after visiting Gershkovich at the prison. "We condemn the Kremlins continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing attempts to corrupt the truth." "The charges against Evan are baseless, and we call on the Russian Federation to immediately release him," the ambassador said. WALL STREET JOURNAL REPORTER EVAN GERSHKOVICH TURNS 32 WHILE WRONGFULLY DETAINED BY RUSSIA Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was denied an appeal Tuesday as he continued to be wrongly detained by Russia while facing espionage charges that the paper vehemently blasted as "categorically false." Tracy said that the journalist "is in good health and remains in good spirits, despite his circumstances," adding that the embassy will continue to support both Gershkovich and his family. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP In the same statement, the ambassador also called for the release of Paul Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan who has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government dispute. WALL STREET JOURNAL REPORTER EVAN GERSHKOVICH PASSES 300 DAYS IN RUSSIA DETAINMENT "Paul has been wrongfully detained in Russia for more than four years," Tracy said. "Both men deserve to go home to their families now." The Russian court upheld the detention of Gershkovich after Russian President Vladimir Putin recently said he was open to a prisoner exchange. In a recent interview, Putin hinted that Gershkovich could be released through such an exchange, and that discussions between the U.S. and Russia are underway. CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "There is no taboo to settle this issue. We're willing to solve it," Putin said. "But there are certain terms being discussed via special services channels. I believe an agreement can be reached." Fox News Hannah Panreck and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Original article source: American reporter Evan Gershkovich in good spirits despite Russia extending detention: US ambassador How many months and years of life would the average Idahoan give away to live a millionaire lifestyle? Compared to other states, not much. Finance and culture outlet Wealth of Geeks surveyed 3,000 U.S. adults to see what they would sacrifice for millionaire status. Apparently, Idahoans are much more content with their current lives than much of the country. The average Idahoan would give up just six months of their life to live like a millionaire, tying with North Dakota and Indiana for lowest. For context, the average amount of time a person would be willing to give up nationwide is 4 years and 11 months. People in New Hampshire are the most desperate to live the millionaire lifestyle, willing to give up a mind-boggling 7 years and 11 months. The average life expectancy in the United States is 76.4 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meaning the average person from New Hampshire is willing to forgo 10.3% of their life. In comparison, the average Idahoan is only willing to give up 0.7% of their life. The lack of commitment to becoming a millionaire from Idahoans is fairly unique among its neighbors, too. Wyoming residents were only willing to give up 10 months, but those from Oregon would give up 5 years and 6 months, and Washingtonians had the fourth-highest average of 6 years and 2 months. Created by Wealth-of-Geeks Viewlarger version What else would people give up to become a millionaire? The study from Wealth of Geeks also asked what other facets of life people would be willing to give away to become a millionaire and what appeals most to them about the lifestyle. Although a state-by-state breakdown wasnt provided, heres what else people would give up for a mountain of cash: Sacrifices beyond lifespan Career goals (23%) Quality sleep (16%) Hobbies (15%) Personal privacy (13%) Living close to family (11%) Cut ties with friends (4%) What appeals most about a millionaire lifestyle? High-end real estate (27%) Luxury goods (23%) Luxury travel (23%) Personal services (21%) Relationship impact Positive change (50%) No chance (26%) Negative chance (24%) A 31-year-old man has been sentenced to a total of 13 years in jail for killing a man in north-west London. Liban Ali, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Andre Foster, 44. He stabbed Mr Foster in the neck at Gable Lodge in Mowbray Road, Brent, on 20 December 2022. On 15 February, he was sentenced at the Old Bailey to nine years in jail for manslaughter and another three years for supplying a Class A drug. He was also ordered to serve a year in prison for unlawful wounding. Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk (FOX40.COM) The 26th annual Free Museum Weekend in Sacramento event which allows guests to explore parts of local history at no cost is scheduled to return next month. Sacramento-area museums are scheduled to collaborate for the 26th consecutive year to host a free museum experience, according to the events website. This year, more than 20 museums located throughout the greater Sacramento area are expected to present a free two-day museum weekend from March 2-3. Are there still active gold mines in California? Although the event is free, advance tickets are required because capacity is limited, according to the event page. Availability may fluctuate by museum. All guests must pre-register for free admission, otherwise, regular admission fees will apply, Sacramento Area Museums said. Free Museum Sacramento is sponsored by KTXL FOX40, Sacramento Regional Transit, Outward, and Sacramento 365. For tickets or more information visit www.sacmuseums.org. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Annunciation House director Ruben Garcia speaks at a roundtable discussion with officials from the City of El Paso, local non-profits, law enforcement officials, businesses and other stakeholders at the Emergency Migrant Operations Facility located in the recently shuttered Bassett Middle School in El Paso, Texas, on Monday, Jan 9, 2023. On Tuesday Attorney General Ken Paxton announced his office was suing the Annunciation House for failing to comply with the attorney generals demand to immediately release information about its clients. Paxton suggested the religious nonprofit was worsening illegal immigration. If a judge sides with the state, the lawsuit could prevent the Annunciation House from operating in Texas. The Annunciation House released the following statement in response to the attorney general's allegations: The Attorney General came to Annunciation House on February 7, 2024 stating that the organization had one day to turn over a broad swath of records to the Attorney General without an explanation. Annunciation House asked a Court to decide what documents the law permits the Attorney General to access. There is nothing illegal about asking a Court to decide a person's rights. The AG has now made explicit that its reaI goal is not records but to shut down the organization. It has stated that it considers it a crime for a Catholic organization to provide shelter to refugees. More: Texas AG sues El Pasos Annunciation House alleging human smuggling, operating stash house The Attorney General's illegal, immoral and anti-faith position to shut down Annunciation House is unfounded. Annunciation House has provided hospitality to hundreds of thousands of refugees for over forty-six years. It is a work recognized by the Catholic Church and is listed in the National Catholic Directory. Annunciation House has done this work of accompaniment out of the scriptural and Gospel mandate to welcome the stranger. Annunciation House's response to the stranger is no different from that of the schools who enroll children of refugees, the clinics and hospitals who care for the needs of refugees and the churches, synagogues, and mosques who welcome families to join in worship. Annunciation House's work is central to the City of El Paso. El Paso has made it a point of pride to provide humane support for people coming through our community in need. Annunciation House has kept hundreds of thousands of refugees coming through our city off the streets and given them food. The work helps serve our local businesses, our City, and immigration officials to keep people off the streets and give them a shelter while they come through our community. If the work that Annunciation House conducts is illegal - so too is the work of our local hospitals, schools, and food banks. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Annunciation House responds to AG Paxton's allegations of human smuggling A Jewish student is suing Columbia University for allegedly kicking her out of an academic program after she requested religious and safety accommodations, marking the Ivy League institution as the latest to face legal challenges over antisemitism. Mackenzie Forrest attended Columbia's School of Social Work (CSSW) starting in August 2022 and was subsequently admitted into the specialized Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Program (DBT). According to the lawsuit, Forrest a straight-A student asked her professors if she could participate in classes via Zoom meetings in the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks in Israel. The campus "devolved into a cauldron of antisemitism" leaving Forrest "feeling physically unsafe," the Lawfare Project says in the lawsuit. But instead of granting what Forrest calls a "reasonable accommodation to protect her from the threats," the administration "grew increasingly intolerant. "In a clear act of retaliation, they began fabricating allegations of her failure to meet program standards to create pretexts under which they could force her out of the DBT program," the lawsuit says. SCANDAL-PLAGUED LIBERAL COLLEGE FACES NEW PROBE OVER ANTISEMITISM, EMBRACE OF HAMAS Students participate in a protest in support of Palestine and for free speech outside of the Columbia University campus on November 15, 2023 in New York City. Brooke Goldstein, executive director of the Lawfare Project a non-profit civil rights firm who is representing Forrest in the case said the lawsuit is "to ensure consequences for unlawful discrimination" amid an alarming rise in antisemitism on college campuses. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "Jew hatred has risen to alarming heights on American college campuses, and also in k-12 schools. The problem has become systemic and the question is why," Goldstein told Fox News Digital. 'HOLD THESE PEOPLE ACCOUNTABLE': GOP REP ACCUSES HARVARD OF 'SYSTEMIC ARROGANCE' RELATED TO ANTISEMITISM PROBE Anti-Israel demonstrators protest outside Columbia University on February 2, 2024 in New York City. The lawsuit says that Forrest initially encountered antisemitism from her faculty and administration when her request for Sabbath observance accommodations within the DBT program was first met with "outright resistance" and then only begrudgingly and ungraciously "accommodated" by a resentful faculty and administration. "The vitriolic and antisemitic environment at Columbia to which Jewish students like Mackenzie have been subjected is utterly indefensible," said Ziporah Reich, litigation director of the Lawfare Project said. "Mackenzies right to an education in an environment where she feels physically safe is a fundamental, non-negotiable right protected by law. The university's refusal to provide Mackenzie with a basic accommodation to ensure her safety is not only shameful, but a dereliction of the university's moral and legal responsibilities. Such negligence demands accountability." The group is seeking injunctive relief and money damages based on federal, state, and common law claims arising out of the "pervasively hostile environment" Forrest has been subjected to, as well as Columbias retaliation against her because of her status as a Jew. A representative for the university declined to comment, citing pending litigation. Columbia is also currently in the cross hairs of House Republicans. Last week, House Education and the Workforce Committee Chair Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., sent a letter to the university asking for documents and information relevant to Congress' investigation into soaring antisemitism. The documents and information requested are said to relate to "Columbia Universitys response to antisemitism on its campus and its failure to protect Jewish students, faculty, and staff." REPUBLICAN AGS RALLY TO PROBE, PROSECUTE GROUPS WITH HAMAS TIES Last year, a Jewish architecture major at Carnegie Mellon University sued the prestigious Pittsburgh institution, alleging a " cruel campaign of antisemitic abuse " carried out by its faculty and administration. And last month, a group of City University of New York (CUNY) professors sued a teachers union that they say promotes antisemitism , waging a legal battle in which they believe the Supreme Court could be their "only hope." Earlier this month, Middlebury College, an elite liberal arts college in Vermont faced a formal complaint lodged with the Department of education by a Jewish organization who says the school "has failed egregiously to provide adequate protection for Jewish students seeking to remedy persistent antisemitic bigotry on campus." "The importance of civil rights lawsuits on behalf of the Jewish community is to ensure consequences for unlawful discrimination and to set precedents that remediate the problem," Goldstein told Fox News Digital. "Every minority community in American history has used the court system to right historical wrongs. Now is the time for a Jewish civil rights movement, with impact litigation, and grassroots mobilization used to finally end Jew hatred in our lifetime," she added. Fox News Digital's Danielle Wallace and Benjaminn Weinthal contributed to this report. Original article source: Another Ivy League institution faces legal action for devolving in 'cauldron of antisemitism' An Antarctic research facility completed in 2010 has been used by US and international scientists to study subatomic particles from space, but claims on social media that it used directed energy weapons and caused a major 2011 earthquake are false. Researchers say the facility -- known as the IceCube -- has a network of optical sensors designed to detect neutrinos for basic science, and a defense expert said it lacks the capacity to produce energy capable of penetrating the Earth. "The IceCube Neutrino Detector is not simply a passive listening device... it's the world's largest directed energy weapon system," a man identified as Eric Hecker, claiming to be a contractor for Raytheon, says in a video shared on Facebook February 11, 2024. "It is responsible for the earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2011," the man says in the video, which is from a podcast on the Shawn Ryan Show and shared on YouTube in July 2023. Hecker made similar claims in a video shared on TikTok in August 2023. The claim was amplified by popular podcast host Joe Rogan, who called it a "wacky conspiracy theory" and added "I have no idea if any of this is nonsense." Screenshot from a Facebook reel taken February 21, 2023 But the facility does not emit energy and cannot produce anything capable of triggering an earthquake, according to scientists affiliated with the center and an independent expert. "IceCube doesn't emit anything. It records particles coming from space for astronomical studies. It is a conventional particle detector made out of a cubic kilometer of natural ice," said Francis Halzan, lead scientist for IceCube and a physics professor at the University of Wisconsin, which coordinates the research of around 300 scientists from 14 countries, in a February 20 email. Ignacio Taboada, a Georgia Tech astrophysicist and spokesperson for the IceCube, told AFP in a February 20 interview that the facility is part of "basic science" without an immediate practical application and aims to get a better understanding of neutrinos, including those created by black holes. Taboada said any impact outside the facility "is not possible" and noted that the sensors are contained in the facility drilled 2.5 kilometers deep in the Antarctic ice using hot water. "In terms of disturbing the ice this is truly minimal," he said. The sensors produce "very faint LED lights" that help in the study of neutrinos, Taboada said. He said Raytheon had been a previous contractor at the facility, but he had no knowledge of Eric Hecker or any role he played. AFP contacted Raytheon, but no response was forthcoming. AFP and other news organizations have written about the IceCube research since the opening in 2010. Graphic on the IceCube neutrino observatory in Antarctica AFP Iain Boyd, a professor of aerospace engineering and director of the Center for National Security Initiatives at the University of Colorado, said the claims in the video are not plausible. "The energy detector could not simply be operated as a transmitter of energy at the flip of a switch. There would be a host of additional large-scale infrastructure needed to generate and manage the energy in the Directed Energy configuration," Boyd said in a February 21 email. "That infrastructure and the associated supplies needed to generate a beam could not be hidden from public view even in the Antarctic." Boyd added that power levels to send a beam through the Earth that could potentially generate an earthquake would be "off the charts." "The IceCube detector is so large because it is trying to detect very small particles at low levels of energy. It is not designed to handle the large amounts of energy needed for the effects that are being claimed," he added. Additionally, Boyd noted that conventional directed energy systems such as lasers and microwaves "do not penetrate through the ground," and noted that "if the claim is that some other form of energy is being used then it is still a long way from explaining how an earthquake was triggered 1,000s of miles away." The US Geological Survey says on its website (archived here) that human-induced earthquakes are rare -- generally caused by fracking -- and no large earthquakes have been attributed to human activity. New Zealand was rocked by a major 6.3 magnitude quake in February 2011, preceded by a 7.1 magnitude temblor a few months earlier. AFP has debunked other claims on Directed Energy Weapons here and here. OAKLAND, Calif. - Oakland police were investigating graffiti sprawled in an area at Lake Merritt as a hate crime. Officers were called to the lakes pergola in the 500 block of El Embarcadero on Monday, on a report of vandalism to city property. Thats where they found the walls of the structure spray-painted with words including, "End U.S. aid to Israel" and "Free Palestine." On social media, posts showed more graffiti on other locations in the area, blasting Israel with even stronger anti-Israel wording and expressing support for Hamas, including the words "Hamas," a terrorist group, circled in a red heart on the sidewalk. SEE ALSO: Protesters calling for ceasefire briefly shut down Central Freeway in San Francisco On Tuesday, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) responded to the incident, describing it as "hateful vitriol." In a statement, the group said, "This is part of a relentless trend of vandalizing both public and private property which sows fear in the Jewish community." The group went on to say it has recorded almost 600 incidents of "antisemitic vandalism" in the U.S. since Hamass attack on Israel on Oct. 7, and it will continue to call out acts that seek to perpetrate more hate and fear in communities. "Oaklands citizens deserve to live in a city free of hateful messages," said Marc Levine, the ADLs regional director of the Central Pacific office. The incident followed another act of vandalism at Lake Merritt back in December when a menorah was dismantled and thrown into the water. The Chabad Jewish Center of Oakland had set up the menorah at the Lake Merritt Amphitheater to mark Hanukkah. Oakland police designated that case as a hate crime as well. There was no word of any arrests. This weeks incident prompted investigators to call on community members to report such acts to the Oakland Police Department hate crime tipline at (510) 637-4283 or by contacting OPD's non-emergency number at (510) 777-3333. Investigators said they will remain in contact with local, state and federal law enforcement partners and assess whether there's a need to increase police presence stemming from the incident. Anti-Scientology protesters have approached Scientology properties, including the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Los Angeles, and yelled at and recorded people. (Chris Pizzello / Associated Press) For the record: 12:10 p.m. Feb. 21, 2024: An earlier version of this article said that, according to other protesters, Daniel Villeda Gonzalez used tear gas. The protesters said he used pepper spray, not tear gas. Until about a year ago, William Gude had no issues with the Church of Scientology. The self-proclaimed cop watcher and activist better known by his social media handle @FilmThePoliceLA did not understand why the L.A.-based religion started by L. Ron Hubbard got so much flak. That was until Gude tried to record video of police making an arrest last year outside one of Scientologys buildings. Gude says he was harassed by Scientology security guards who told him he could not shoot video on the public sidewalk. Although the allegation pales in comparison with others that have been made against the church , it set Gude off. I told them, Im going to end your religion, Gude said in an interview. Now, Gude and his gaggle of anti-Scientology protesters are brawling publicly with the organization. Theyve demonstrated outside Scientologys major facilities and those of businesses perceived to be cozy with it. At times, a hundred or more people show up at the protests, Gude said. They say the church has tried to stop them, calling police and sending people to harass them. The tactics of the protesters can be frustrating to their targets: They approach Scientology properties and yell at and record people though they do so on public property, which is legal. There is a war going on, Gude said. Read more: From the Archives: The Scientology Story Gudes group is the latest of many to protest the church, which has been the focus of controversy for decades , and his complaints will sound familiar to former members and other critics whove tangled with it publicly . The church disputes everything Gude and his team say and alleges that the hate group does not comprise protesters but agitators and bigoted harassers of religious people. Scientologists have been harassed and attacked. The Church and Scientologists have dealt with these religious hate-crimes in accordance with the law. We have filed police reports and have alerted the appropriate federal authorities to these threats and hate crimes, Karin Pouw, the organizations spokesperson, said in an email. Pouw said the protesters have called in bomb and fire threats, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxpayer money, denying important public services for real needs in our community, disturbing the peace and disturbing places of worship. Why is anti-religious discrimination and hate with the stated goal of closing churches and causing harm to parishioners new and old alike tolerable? Not even the Los Angeles Times would consider these actions acceptable if aimed at a synagogue or a mosque, she said. The battle culminated in the arrest Feb. 16 of three protesters outside La Poubelle, a cafe and bar on Franklin Avenue, across from the Scientology Celebrity Centre, after they clashed with people who were not even affiliated with the religion. Protesters had targeted La Poubelle because its owner, Francoise Koster, wrote a letter to a judge in support of Scientologist Danny Masterson after his conviction on multiple counts of rape. Read more: Scientology looms large as jurors to decide Danny Masterson's fate in second rape trial The letter was galling to activists because one of Mastersons victims alleged that she lost consciousness after the actor gave her a drink at La Poubelle . She regained consciousness the next morning, in pain, and Masterson told her they had had sex, according to her testimony at trial. Koster did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Protesters gathered outside La Poubelle, telling patrons not to go into the bar and suggesting that drinks might be spiked with drugs. Details from the Los Angeles Police Department about the three Feb. 16 arrests are scarce and shrouded in bureaucratic language. Police said two people came to the Hollywood station around 10:30 p.m. and reported a battery. Officers followed up on the report to the 5900 block of Franklin Avenue, where La Poubelle is located. There, officers arrested two suspects, a police news release said. While making those arrests, officers were alerted to a second physical altercation at the location and arrested a third battery suspect. The three arrested Daniel Villeda Gonzalez, Kamrin Ivone and Scott Hochstetter were booked on suspicion of conspiracy and suspicion of unlawfully using tear gas. Read more: Exclusive: Scientology head's father was spied on, police report says But other protesters said that only one of the three, Gonzalez, used a spray, and it was pepper spray, not tear gas. Gonzalez could not immediately be reached for comment. It was not clear whether he remained in police custody as of Tuesday. vone said he was shoved by a man outside the restaurant and has no idea why he was arrested. I dont raise my voice at anybody. Im the most peaceful protester. I dont assault anybody, Ivone said in an interview with The Times. I honestly dont know why I was arrested. My head was spinning. Why am I being arrested when I didnt put my hands on anybody? Video recorded at the scene shows Ivone referring to a La Poubelle patron as Motley Crue; the patron then slaps Ivones phone out of his hand. Ivone said the man then pushed his chest and pinned him against a car before security guards separated the two. Video later shows protesters yelling at police, referring to them as dirty and using profanity. Ivone says he did not assault anybody and did not have tear gas. All police found in his pockets was lip balm, a vape pen and AirPods, he said. Hochstetter could not immediately be reached for comment. Public records show he is in LAPD custody. The LAPD did not respond to a request for additional information on the three arrests. La Poubelle was the latest flashpoint in the simmering feud. Gude alleges that protesters have been attacked since they started showing up at Scientologys Hollywood information center in September. Chris Nava said he was assaulted Feb. 4 after protesting outside Scientologys blue building on Fountain Avenue in Hollywood. A man followed him to his car and beat him up, leaving him hospitalized. He required stitches to the back of the head and lost a tooth. The man took his phone, Nava said. He reported the incident to police, but no arrests have been made. Read more: Scientology feud with its critics takes to Internet Protesters said they have had tires slashed; some allege they have been attacked by a man with a dog, and others say they were spat on or had knives pulled on them. None of the attacks have been directly tied to the church, though protesters hold it responsible. Scientology has been sending people out to physically intimidate the protesters, said Aaron Smith-Levin, a Florida-based former Scientologist who has attended some of the recent protests in Los Angeles. Smith-Levin said he and Patrick Perry, 52, were detained by police Jan. 19. Smith-Levin alleges Perry attacked him. Arrest records show that Perry was booked on suspicion of battery, but the department did not provide further details. Smith-Levin was not arrested. After much consideration, only one individual was arrested for battery, the LAPD said in a statement at the time. The individual arrested has no known association with the Church of Scientology. Perry could not immediately be reached for comment. Pouw, the Scientology spokesperson, did not respond to a question about claims of retaliation against protesters. Its a constant thing, said Gude, who instructs fellow protesters to turn the other cheek. Weve preached, Guys, you just have to take it. This is not about me. Its about us, the movement. 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. Hero of Ukraine, dissident, and politician Stepan Khmara has died at the age of 86, his wife Rocksolyana Khmara reported on Facebook on Feb. 21. A few days ago, Stepan Khmara was hospitalized. His wife said, "We all did everything we could and even more." "We wanted him to be with us so much when our victory was announced," the Facebook post reads. He loved Ukraine and Ukrainians so much. He tore his heart and soul for it. Stepan Khmara was a fighter for Ukraine's independence and one of the leaders of the anti-communist resistance movement of 1970s-1980s. In 1980, the dissident was arrested by the KGB for his political and human rights activities and charged with anti-Soviet propaganda. Khmara was sentenced to seven years in a maximum security camp and five years in exile. He served his sentence in political prison camps in the Urals. Read also: The Battle of the World-orders After being released in 1987, Khmara returned to Ukraine and became one of the leaders of the Ukrainian Helsinki Union, and later a co-author of the Constitution of Ukraine. He was a member of the Ukrainian parliament of the first, second, and fourth convocations. In 2006, Khmara was awarded the title of Hero of 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 Dogs in an Indiana neighborhood were at risk of drinking antifreeze after it was discovered in their bowls, police said. The antifreeze was found two days after a dog was shot in the same neighborhood, Utica police said on Facebook. The dog was taken to a nearby hospital on Feb. 18. It is now back home with its owner and has a long road of recovery ahead, police said in a Facebook comment. On Feb. 20, police asked residents to keep their animals contained and within eyesight while outside after antifreeze was found in multiple dog bowls, according to a Facebook post. A small amount of antifreeze can be fatal to a dog if ingested, according to PetMD. If consumed, it can affect a dogs gastrointestinal tract, liver, brain and kidneys. The investigation is ongoing. We are asking everyone to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and keep a close watch on your pet, police said. Utica is in southern Indiana, about 15 miles northeast of Louisville, Kentucky. Blind pitbull found on the street is an expert snuggler. Now Stevie needs a home Freezing cat found alone in Wisconsin winter shows resiliency in recovery, shelter says Animal rescuers say they were saving pups from ruined building. They were arrested A fine issued to a lawyer who attempted to have Norfolks top prosecutor investigated by a special grand jury last year was upheld in an opinion issued Tuesday by the Court of Appeals of Virginia. A three-judge panel affirmed Norfolk Circuit Judge Everett Martins decision to dismiss a complaint submitted by attorney Amina Matheny-Willard against Commonwealths Attorney Ramin Fatehi and to fine her $500 for filing it for improper reasons. Matheny-Willard didnt immediately respond Tuesday to a message seeking comment. Martin ruled in February 2023 that Matheny-Willard who lost to Fatehi in the 2021 Democratic primary had used the filing as part of a publicity stunt to jump start a new election bid to unseat Fatehi. The appeals court agreed in a nine-page published opinion. When a litigant puts forth a claim not warranted by a good faith argument for the extension of law and interposed for an improper purpose, a circuit court must impose sanctions, the panel said in an opinion written by Judge Daniel E. Oritz. This familiar principle applies to suits brought with no precedent nor factually congruent support and those brought for political publicity. Matheny-Willard submitted the complaint in January 2023 on behalf of five Norfolk residents, including Michael Muhammad, a local activist and frequent critic of Fatehi, and four people whod been impacted by gun violence in the city in recent years. The filing came two days after Matheny-Willard announced on Facebook that she was again running for commonwealths attorney. In the post, she also sought five citizens who would agree to be plaintiffs in a claim she planned to file against Fatehi. The lawsuit attempted to use the states special grand jury statute to have Fatehi investigated as a public nuisance, claiming his office had repeatedly failed to adequately prepare for trials, handle cases competently or keep victims and witnesses properly informed. Fatehi called the filing legally baseless and frivolous and said it had been filed in bad faith. Jane Harper, jane.harper@pilotonline.com A grandstanding Arizona county prosecutor is refusing to extradite Raad Almansoori, who is accused of strangling and bludgeoning a Queens mom sex worker to death in a SoHo hotel, claiming she fears he could be back on the street under Manhattan DA Alvin Braggs watch. During a press conference with Arizona police department heads, Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said shes instructed her attorneys not to agree to any extradition for Almansoori. We are going to keep him here, said Mitchell, a Republican. Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by the Manhattan DA there, Alvin Bragg, its safer to keep him here and keep him in custody so he cant be out doing this to individuals either in our state or county or the United States. Bragg was quick to hit back. It is deeply disturbing that DA Mitchell is playing political games in a murder investigation, said Emily Tuttle, a spokeswoman for Bragg. In Manhattan, we are serious about New Yorkers safety, which is why murders are down 24% and shootings are down 38% since DA Bragg took office, Tuttle said. New Yorks murder rate is less than half that of Phoenix, Arizona, because of the hard work of the NYPD and all of our law enforcement partners. It is a slap in the face to them and to the victim in our case to refuse to allow us to seek justice and full accountability for a New Yorkers death. If Almansoori, 26, is extradited to New York, he is expected to be charged with murder and would almost certainly be ordered held without bail. The Manhattan District Attorneys Office is determining the next steps to take in Almansooris case given Mitchells stance, Tuttle said. After being arrested for two separate non-fatal stabbings of women in Arizona, Almansoori allegedly indicated to police he murdered Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, who was found strangled and struck in the head with an iron inside the hotel on Watts St. near Sixth Ave. on Feb. 8. He encouraged cops in Arizona to google the SoHo 54 Hotel to learn more about his misdeeds, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said Tuesday. NYPD detectives had identified Almansoori as a suspect with help from a Burger King receipt found in a pair of bloody mens pants in the hotel room. But the suspect had already flown to Arizona, where he allegedly attacked women in Phoenix and Surprise, Ariz. During interviews with police after his Arizona arrest, Almansoori said he intended to find and harm more individuals in our community, Scottsdale Chief of Police Jeff Walther said Wednesday. After Almansoori allegedly stabbed an 18-year-old McDonalds employee in the restaurant ladies room in Surprise on Saturday, he stole a car and fled the scene, according to cops. Using license plate readers, Scottsdale police tracked the stolen car to a parking garage at the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall on Sunday, where thousands of people were shopping, Walther said. Walther believes Almansoori was out to attack someone at the mall. Without a doubt we stopped someone from being harmed and stopped him from continuing his path of destruction, Walther said. Braggs prosecutors have been criticized by some for being supposedly soft on seeking bail and jail time for suspects facing violent offenses. Most recently, a criminal court judge released without bail four migrants charged by Braggs office in the beating of an NYPD lieutenant and officer outside a Times Square shelter, infuriating police unions. Bragg last week sought to hold without bail three of the seven suspects at their Manhattan Supreme Court arraignments two successfully and bail for the rest. The Manhattan DA routinely seeks to hold without bail extradited suspects, even those accused of offenses less serious than murder, including Alex Jean, who was extradited from Florida in April 2023, accused of kidnapping a homeless teen, and Gary Cabana, extradited from Philadelphia in January 2023 after being accused of stabbing workers at MoMA. Other suspects include Camby Wilson, who the Manhattan DA sought to hold without bail after his October 2023 extradition from Maine for an East Harlem shooting, Jason Clotter in October 2022 after his extradition from Tennessee for a fatal hit-and-run and Jose Reyes, extradited from Philadelphia for involvement in Washington Heights shooting in January 2022. Almansoori is facing charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault and theft for the Surprise stabbing, as well as robbery, assault, theft and criminal damage in the Phoenix attack. He is currently being held without bond, Mitchell said. There is no amount of money that he can post to get out of custody at this point, she said. Mitchell emphasized her decision to hold on to Almansoori isnt a slight against the NYPD. This is not aimed at the NYPD at all, she said. I know they did a hard job and a good job. PHOENIX - An Arizona man is accused of committing multiple felonies following a sexual assault incident. The incident, according to court documents, happened on the morning of Feb. 13 in Tempe. Here are the details on what happened. Who's the suspect? Court documents identified the suspect as 35-year-old Edward Cordell Brown. What happened? The incident, as stated above, happened on Feb. 13. Detectives said at around 6:30 a.m., the victim, identified as Victim 1 in court documents, was met by Brown at a carport as the victim was leaving her home in Phoenix. "Brown pointed a handgun at Victim 1, and forced her inside of her residence and into her bedroom against her will," investigators wrote. Victim 1 and Brown did not know each other. The incident, according to police, was witnessed by another person, who later called police from inside the home. "Once inside the bedroom, Brown forcefully removed victim's clothing and demanded money from her," detectives stated, after watch Brown allegedly assaulted the victim sexually. Court documents contained graphic descriptions on what happened. One of the officers who later arrived on scene, according to investigators, witnessed the suspect sexually assaulting Victim 1 through the bedroom window. Officers also gave commands for Brown to leave the home, but Brown did not comply. "Brown ran out of the bedroom where he sexually assaulted Victim 1 and into another bedroom. Brown opened a window and fired the handgun multiple times in the direction of Officer Victim 3 and Officer Victim 4. Officer Victim 3 shot back at Brown," read a portion of the court documents. The suspect, detectives said, later climbed through a window, and fled north towards an alley when another officer shot at him. Brown was later taken into custody, and transported to a hospital for treatment. What is Brown accused of? (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gustavo Castillo/Released) Brown, detectives said, is accused of committing multiple felonies. They include: Five counts of Aggravated Assault with a deadly weapon. Two counts of Kidnapping One count of 1st Degree Burglary One count of Armed Robbery Three counts of Sexual Assault One count of Possession of a Weapon by a Prohibited Person One count of Discharging a Firearm at a Residence A judge has ruled that Brown cannot be bailed out. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 26. Arizona is expanding parameters for children to get Medicaid coverage, which health care advocates say is a positive move for a state with consistently high rates of uninsured children. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs announced Tuesday that a change in state law, which got federal approval on Friday, will allow up to 10,000 more children in Arizona to qualify for Arizona's KidsCare program. Hobbs has said that expanding access to health care is one of the pillars of her administration. In order to qualify for the state's KidsCare program, annual family income limits will be rising to 225% of the federal poverty level, which works out to an annual household income of up to $70,200 for a family of four, according to a fact sheet from the governor's office. The change will take effect April 1, and newly eligible families may begin enrolling on March 1, Hobbs' office said. When kids have access to affordable health care, it means more than just a healthier life," Hobbs told reporters gathered at the Mountain Park Health Center Glendale Clinic. It means better high school and college graduation rates, it means theyre more likely to find a good paying job. KidsCare is a Medicaid program for children younger than 19 whose parents are earning too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but not enough to afford commercial insurance, including what's offered on the federal Affordable Care Act marketplace, even with subsidies. The program charges families a monthly premium ranging from $10 to $50 per month per child based on their income. The state's 2024 budget allocates $5.5 million in general fund money for KidsCare expansion, and $6.6 million for fiscal year 2025, AHCCCS officials said Tuesday. Child advocates wanted KidsCare income limit to be higher Medicaid in Arizona is called the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System and KidsCare is Arizonas version of the federal Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP. CHIP was created in 1997 with bipartisan support during the Clinton administration. Advocates from the Phoenix-based Children's Action Alliance had wanted the KidsCare threshold to increase to 300% of the federal poverty level, which would work out to a household income of up to $90,000 for a family of four. But raising the limit to 225% is a step in the right direction and a positive step for Arizona because the median income limit for children's health insurance programs across the country is 255% of the federal poverty level, Matt Jewett, health policy director for the Children's Action Alliance, said Tuesday. "So we're getting closer to that, but we're still less than the majority of states," Jewett said. "This means that 10,000 kids are going to get the care that they need, they are going to be able to get preventive care so that their asthma doesn't keep them out of school, it keeps them out of emergency rooms and it gives parents peace of mind." Jewett said the next step is providing outreach to families to let them know their children may now qualify for coverage through KidsCare. Anyone who needs assistance can go to CoverAZ.org or call 800-377-3536. AHCCCS primarily provides health coverage to low-income people typically living at about 138% or less of the federal poverty level and to people with disabilities. Traditional AHCCCS thresholds vary but are generally up to 138% of the federal poverty level, or $43,056 in annual household income for a family of four. The higher income parameters are what makes the KidsCare program different from traditional Medicaid because it opens up AHCCCS enrollment to the children of working families who have incomes that are higher than the poverty level, but still struggle to pay for essential needs like health care for their children. Federal officials with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approved Arizona's request to raise the KidsCare income limit on Feb. 16. The change stems from a bill the Arizona Legislature passed in 2023 that was later signed into law by Hobbs. Gov. Katie Hobbs announces actions Arizona is taking to stop fraud against the Medicaid system and exploitation of AHCCCS members during a news conference at the Arizona state Capitol in Phoenix on May 16, 2023. Arizona has one of the highest levels of uninsured children in the U.S. The latest state data show that KidsCare enrolls about 61,843 Arizona children under the age of 19. Most children covered by AHCCCS are on traditional AHCCCS. The program, including the KidsCare population, enrolls a total of nearly 790,000 children ages 0 to 17, which is 37% of the overall AHCCCS population. AHCCCS enrolls another 147,081 young people ages 18 to 21. The AHCCCS population has declined by 12% over the past year in part because of a trend as Medicaid programs across the country drop people from their rolls because of post-pandemic policy changes. The total AHCCCS population as of this month is 2.2 million people, down from 2.5 million people in February 2023. Whether or not all the people losing AHCCCS are getting health insurance coverage elsewhere is unclear, but the level of uninsured children in Arizona has long been a problem. As of 2022, there were 142,000 Arizona children under the age of 19 without health insurance, according to a report from Georgetown University's Center for Children and Families. The report places Arizona's rate of uninsured children at 8.4%, which is higher than the national average of 5.1% and the fifth highest in the country behind Texas, Florida, California and Georgia. Dr. Daniel Derksen, director of the Center for Rural Health at the University of Arizona, estimates that about 850,000 Arizonans lack health insurance, up from about 700,000 a year ago, mostly because of the Medicaid policy changes that disenrolled people from programs across the country. Having more people without health insurance puts added financial pressure on safety net health providers such as federally qualified health centers, which is why he said adding more children to KidsCare is progress, even if it's incremental. "It's not as much as a lot of us would like to see, but this is moving us in the right direction," he said of the KidsCare expansion. "We want kids to be healthy and have access to high quality care. ... This is good news all the way around." Arizona will now pay parents who are caregivers for minor children with disabilities, Hobbs announced In addition to announcing the expanded KidsCare parameters, Hobbs announced that Arizona recently got approved to pay parents who are caregivers for children with disabilities through the state's AHCCCS program. The changes apply to parents whose kids are minors and eligible for the Arizona Long Term Care System, known as ALTCS, which is for people with disabilities significant enough to need institutional level care, even though they may not be living in an institution. Before COVID-19, Arizona parents of minor children with intellectual and developmental disabilities had never been paid for care they provided to their kids. During the pandemic, a shortage of direct care workers, combined with stay-at-home and social distancing recommendations, led the state to ask the federal government for some flexibility in reimbursing parents for the extraordinary care that was required of them to provide throughout the course of the pandemic. Parents had asked the state to continue the program and have said Arizona's willingness to make that move shows it is "forward thinking," and supportive of family caregiving. The parents as paid caregivers program will be an ongoing state general fund cost of $133,100, an AHCCCS spokesperson wrote in an email. Hobbs said Tuesday that, despite the state's dire budget forecast of a deficit of $1.7 billion, both KidsCare and parents as caregivers program would be priorities for her to continue. She will negotiate a budget with lawmakers for the fiscal year that begins July 1. The two additions to AHCCCS "will have a direct impact on children in Arizona," Hobbs said in a written statement. "Increasing the upper income limit on KidsCare eligibility means more children will get needed health care services through their early development, creating a healthier population overall, she said. And parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities will be compensated for delivering health care services to their children." Reach health care reporter Stephanie Innes at Stephanie.Innes@gannett.com or at 602-444-8369. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @stephanieinnes. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Gov. Katie Hobbs: Changes to Arizona Medicaid program will help families A Nazi propaganda poster dubbed 'the red poster' sought to demonise the foreign Resistance fighters (-) A stateless Armenian poet who died fighting the Nazi occupation of France during World War II on Wednesday became the first non-French Resistance fighter to enter the Pantheon mausoleum for national heroes. The honour to Missak Manouchian has been seen as long-overdue recognition of the bravery of foreign communists -- many Jewish -- who fought the Nazis alongside members of the French Resistance. Members of the French foreign legion carried the coffins of Manouchian and his wife Melinee, also a member of the Resistance, draped in French flags into the secular temple. The names of 23 of his communist comrades-in-arm -- including Polish, Hungarian, Italian, Spanish and Romanian fighters -- will be added to a commemorative plaque inside the monument. "Grateful France welcomes you," President Emmanuel Macron said. - Refugee turned fighter - Manouchian arrived in France as a young man in the mid-1920s, after fleeing World-War-I-era mass killings of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire as a child to French-mandate Lebanon. He joined the French communist party's armed resistance in 1943, soon leading dozens of foreigners fighting the German occupiers in the Paris region. Under his watch they carried out sabotage, derailed trains, attacked German soldiers and assassinated a German SS colonel in charge of the forced enlistment of French workers. Manouchian was arrested in November 1943 and tortured before being shot dead by firing squad aged 37 with around 20 of his comrades in February 1944. After their death sentences, a Nazi propaganda poster showing images of ten from the group on a red background, which became known as the "red poster", sought to demonise them as members of a "criminal army". But it backfired, and later inspired a poem by French poet Louis Aragon, a song and several films. During Wednesday's ceremony, French singer Patrick Bruel read out the last letter Manouchian wrote to his wife before he was shot. "My dear Melinee, my beloved little orphan, in a few hours, I will no longer be," he had written. - Foreigners - Manouchian, who pursued poetry and literature while working in a shipyard and a factory before the war, had requested French nationality in 1933 and 1940, both times without success. He was one of many foreigners in the French Resistance. They were mostly "anti-Nazi Germans and Austrians, Spanish Republicans who had fled Francoism, anti-fascist Italians, Poles who had fled anti-Semitism, Armenians, and Jews from eastern Europe and Germany", according to the French defence ministry. It is unclear how many exactly of the 2.2 million foreigners in France at the time joined the Resistance. But of the 1,000 Resistance fighters executed by the Nazis at the Mont-Valerien fort outside Paris during the occupation, 185 were foreign, historian Denis Peschanski told AFP. That was a much higher proportion of foreigners than in the country's pre-war population of around 40 million. - 'Quiet heroism' - Under Macron, since 2017 three people have been awarded a place inside the Pantheon: writer Maurice Genevoix, women's rights icon Simone Veil, and US-born entertainer and French Resistance member Josephine Baker. Baker, the first black woman to receive the honour, had been awarded French nationality before the war. Last year, Macron said Manouchian would also receive the honour, paying tribute to his "bravery" and "quiet heroism". At the time, parliament was debating a contentious immigration bill that Macron eventually signed into law earlier this year. The roughly 2,000 people invited to Wednesday's ceremony include Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and representatives of the French Communist Party. Far-right former presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said she would also be attending, sparking controversy. The parliamentary leader of the anti-immigration National Rally party was invited, but Macron said this weekend that the far right should be "inspired not to be present". Georges Duffau-Epstein, whose Jewish immigrant father Joseph Epstein was among those being honoured, said Le Pen was "not welcome". bur-vl-ah/giv A rape and murder that took place in Ludwigsburg, Germany, in 1978 went unsolved for 45 years, but a near-impossible DNA match found in 2021 has connected a former U.S. soldier to the killing. James Patrick Dempsey, 66, who served with the Army in Germany in 1977 and 1978 before being discharged that same year, is now being extradited from his home in Oneida, New York, in connection with the murder of a woman named Barbel Gansau. He was arrested after the FBI, working with German authorities, went through Dempseys trash and found DNA that matched evidence found at the crime scene. Investigators determined that the likelihood of a match was 1 in 270 quadrillion, according to the extradition document. New technology led investigators to reopen the cold case. A fingerprint left behind on Gansaus window was found to be a match for a man in an American database, leading the FBI to Dempsey, who was put in the system after a domestic drunk driving incident in 1979. Gansau, age 35 when she died, was found on June 11, 1978, in her apartment. She was stabbed 37 times. Semen found on Gansaus body as well on her bedsheets matched the DNA found in Dempseys trash, leading to his arrest. The German investigators used DNA trace analysis on several skin and sperm samples obtained at the crime scene, the document reads. In 2022, German police investigators compared this DNA from the crime scene to the male DNA found in the trash pull from Dempseys U.S. residence. According to Army records cited in the extradition document, Dempsey had an alcohol problem while serving and had left rehab shortly before Gansaus murder. She reportedly often visited American officers clubs in the area and was friendly with some of the soldiers. The extradition sheet, however, notes there is no proof that Gansau and Dempsey engaged in any consensual activities leading up to her death. Army public affairs did not respond to a request for comment by publication. Syracuse.com reported that Dempsey has been detained at the Broome County Jail while he awaits extradition to Germany. According to the Daily Beast, German authorities said they would charge Dempsey as a young adult his age at the time of the alleged crime despite Dempsey now being in his mid-60s. Australian bishop Christopher Saunders has been charged with rape and a string of historical sex offences - some against children. The 74-year-old was arrested in Broome on Wednesday, after parallel investigations ordered by Western Australia police and the Pope. Mr Saunders has indicated he will plead not guilty to all charges against him. He is one of the most senior Catholic clerics to face charges of this nature. Mr Saunders is charged with two counts of rape, 14 counts of unlawful and indecent assault, and three counts of indecently dealing with a child as a person in authority. The alleged offending occurred in the remote West Australian towns of Broome, Kununurra and the Aboriginal community of Kalumburu between 2008 and 2014. He was released on bail on Thursday and ordered to reside at his home until his next hearing in June, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. Aside from the late Cardinal George Pell, who was jailed and then acquitted, Mr Saunders is the most senior Catholic official in the country to be charged with child sex offences. In a statement on Thursday, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference promised to cooperate with police, and said the charges against Mr Saunders were "very serious and deeply distressing, especially for those making those allegations". "It is right and proper, and indeed necessary, that all such allegations be thoroughly investigated," Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe said. First ordained in 1976, Mr Saunders has spent most of his career in the remote Kimberley region in the nation's north-west corner, and was appointed Bishop of Broome in 1996. The diocese stretches about 770,000 sq km (297,000 sq miles) - an area roughly the size of Turkey - and encompasses some of the most remote parts of the country. Well known for socialising, his advocacy work, and escorting young men on camping and fishing trips, Mr Saunders has long been a powerful figure within the local community. There is also a beer named after him. The accusations were first aired in 2020, but the initial police investigation that followed was closed without charge. He voluntarily stood down as the Bishop of Broome in 2020, but remains an emeritus bishop. However after a historic inquiry was ordered by the Pope, police began a new investigation. Only a handful of Vos Estis Lux Mundi inquiries have been undertaken around the world. Meaning "You Are the Light of the World" in Latin, Vos Estis investigations are commissioned by the pontiff and were introduced in 2019 to combat sexual abuse and take action against bishops and other high-ranking officials in the Catholic Church. The family of an Australian writer on death row in China said Wednesday that he will not appeal a suspended death sentence for spying as he has no faith in the country's judicial system and is too unwell to fight on. File Photo by Yonhap News Agency/UPI Feb. 21 (UPI) -- An Australian writer on death row in China will not appeal his suspended death sentence for spying as he has no faith in the country's judicial system and is too unwell to fight on, his family said Wednesday. Yang Hengjun's family said in a statement that despite a total lack of evidence against the 57-year-old, pursuing an appeal would be "detrimental to his welfare," because the odds of success made it pointless and would further delay him receiving badly needed medical treatment. "There are no grounds to believe that the system that enabled Yang's sustained torture and fabricated the charges against him is capable of remedying the injustice of his sentence," his family said. "Second, commencing an appeal would only delay the possibility of adequate and supervised medical care, after five years of inhumane treatment and abject medical neglect." Under Chinese law, Yang's sentence, handed down earlier this month, can be commuted to life in prison after two years of good behavior and the move to abandon the fight frees up Yang's lawyers and Australian officials to push for him to be released on medical parole. Yang is expected to be moved from a detention center in Beijing, where he has been held since being arrested at Guangzhou airport in 2019, to the prison system where it is thought he will be able to get medical treatment, visits and reading material. The decision will also heighten public demands on Canberra to ramp up its efforts to secure Yang's release. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called the decision to drop Yang's appeal "understandable" but pledged to keep pressing Beijing on his behalf. "The Australian government has advocated for Dr. Yang with China at every opportunity, and at the highest levels and we will continue to do so," the minister said. "We will continue to press for Dr. Yang's interests and well-being, and provide consular assistance to him," said Wong. Following Yang's Feb. 5 sentencing, China's Foreign Ministry insisted his trial was held "in strict accordance with the law and ensured that he fully exercised his procedural rights." The pro-democracy blogger and writer worked in counterintelligence at China's Ministry of State Security prior to moving to Australia and becoming a citizen in 2002. He is married with two children. Ana Maria Knezevich Henao, went missing on or around February 2 in Madrid after she did not meet as friend as planned, according to her brother. Photo courtesy of Spain's Interior Ministry Feb. 20 (UPI) -- A Florida woman has been reported as missing in Madrid amid suspicious circumstances and an ongoing divorce. Officials in Spain said Ana Maria Knezevich Henao, 40 and a native of Colombia, had "disappeared" on or around February 2 after she did not meet a friend as planned, according to her brother. A series of WhatsApp text messages to a friend at about the time she supposedly went missing communicated that she had met someone, USA Today has reported. "I met someone wonderful!! He has a summer house about 2h (hours) from Madrid. We are going there now and I will spend a few days there. Signal is spotty. I'll call you when I get back," read one message, according to Sanna Rameau, a friend of Knezevich Henao. Officials said security cameras were spray-painted at the entrance to the door and at the elevator in the upscale Salamanca apartment building where Knezevich Henao had been living. "The fact that the building has the cameras spray-painted ... It just makes us think it's foul play. It's not normal," her brother Felipe Henao told NewsNation. His sister and her husband, David Knezevich -- CEO of Florida-based EOX Technology Solutions who had traveled back to his native Serbia in January -- had been in the middle of a divorce, Felipe Henao said. Two operators of a Sussex County rescue group are facing animal cruelty charges after authorities allegedly found nearly 100 maltreated dogs and several dead animals on their property this week. Gizela Juric and Ronald Colgan, owners of the Angels for Animals Network, were each charged with six counts of animal cruelty following a raid of the organization's Vernon site Tuesday, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The ASPCA, along with the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and Vernon police, seized more than 90 dogs of various breeds, sizes and ages found living in their own urine and feces and exposed to high levels of ammonia. Many of the animals had dirty, severely matted coats, including one with metal nails matted into its fur, the society said. Some of the dogs were underweight and had untreated eye infections, injuries or other medical conditions. Several were living in cars, and others were found deceased on the property. Nearly 100 dogs were rescued in February 2024 from a house in Vernon leading to charges against two people. The dogs were transported to the ASPCA's cruelty recovery center, a facility that provides temporary shelter, medical care and behavioral treatment for animals rescued from suspected cruelty and neglect situations. "The ASPCA is grateful to be in a position where we can collaborate with local agencies across the country to provide critical resources and expertise to rescue at-risk animals and bring them to safety," said Teresa Ladner, the organization's senior director of investigations. "Its clear these dogs were not receiving adequate treatment despite the fact that they were under the care of a self-described animal rescue group." The Angels for Animals Facebook page features a GoFundMe link from January seeking donations to bring four stray dogs from Egypt to the rescue group. The initiative raised $1,780 of its $4,000 goal, and another post shows the dogs arrived early last week. Juric was previously charged with animal cruelty on Feb. 2 after another dog died in her care, the ASPCA said. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are pending based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the county prosecutor's office. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Vernon NJ dog rescue group faces animal cruelty charges Disclaimer: Potential spoilers ahead. Netflixs new series Avatar: The Last Airbender tackles heavy topics like war and exploitation and, according to actors in it, the showrunners didnt hesitate to depict them in a graphic way. The live-action series is a departure from the animated Nickelodeon show on which its based on, which only alluded to instances of genocide and murder. Actors Daniel Dae Kim and Paul Sun-Hyung Lee said theres a good reason for that. Lee, who plays Uncle Iroh, a former general of the fictional country called Fire Nation, explained the shows intentional display of brutality. I, as an artist whos working in it, appreciate that were not watering it down necessarily to make it more palatable for the audience, Lee said. The scope, the epicness of it, the themes that were trying to explore, I think you cant be too light-handed with it. And this is what I appreciate as a fan as well. And I think a whole generation of original fans would like that sort of change where its stepped up. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee as Iroh (Robert Falconer / Netflix) Avatar: The Last Airbender, which debuts Thursday, follows the journey of a young monk and his friends as they travel through the world to master the four elements and save the world from the militaristic Fire Nation. While the live-action adaptation honors storylines and themes of the original, creator Albert Kim told IGN the show is a remix, not a cover. Kim, who plays Fire Lord Ozai, a villain bent on conquering the world for the supremacy of his people, said the depiction of war in the series is timely. It is just a part of our history, and this show reflects a lot of things that are in our culture currently as well, Kim told NBC News. This idea of an imbalance of power, the idea that people are seeking power without the responsibility that it comes with. I think its an appropriate show for our times, Kim said. The original Avatar animated series was noted for its critique of imperialism and for capturing the devastating impact of century-long warfare on cultures, families and nature. While the eight-episode show depicts the Fire Nation attempting to conquer other nations, it also aims to explore the complexities of intra-regional politics and how differing opinions on peace and war exist within the same people. Colonialism, imperialism is not just one race against another. Its one nationality against another. Its one region against another, Kim said. If you look at the history of just Asia, how many times has Korea been conquered? How many times has China had a revolution? Even going back to dynasties, it was one dynasty overthrowing another. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The Simferopol military hospital is at full capacity due to a huge number of new wounded soldiers, the Atesh movement reported on Feb. 21. Military transport vehicles enter the hospital on Zhukovskyi Street "practically 24 hours a day," Atesh said on Telegram. Read also: 50% officer loss, 750 wounded: Avdiivka assault cripples Russian brigade ATESH Costly recent assaults on Avdiivka and near Zaporizhzhya may be the main reason for the huge influx of wounded and killed, the partisans said. The hospital is almost completely full and bodies are mostly transported in KamAZ trucks because there are too many of them to transport in medical vehicles. Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported on Feb. 17 that the Ukrainian army had withdrawn from Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, after four months of intense fighting and regular attacks by the Russian troops. This decision was made to avoid encirclement and to save the lives and health of the soldiers. Read also: Whole graveyard of Russian military equipment in war-torn region north of Avdiivka The commander of the Tavria troop grouping, Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, said that "a number" of Ukrainian soldiers were captured during the withdrawal from Avdiivka. Dmytro Lykhoviy, head of the public relations department of the Tavria grouping, said that the withdrawal of troops from Avdiivka was as successful as the circumstances allowed. The DeepState analytical portal reported that the Russian military shot six captured Ukrainian soldiers at the Museum position (formerly Zenit military unit) in Avdiivka, who remained there after the Ukrainian army retreated from the town. Four of them were wounded and unable to walk. Russians shared a video in social networks showing dead Ukrainian soldiers lying in the premises of Garage No. 1. A series of mistakes and delays in taking decisive actions led to such a tragedy, analysts complained. Read also: Russians lost tens of thousands in Avdiivka offensive, more than citys population, says Ukrainian officer Three wounded soldiers who remained at Zenit position near Avdiivka were identified by their relatives, who had watched the video, the Investigation.Info reported. Journalist Yuriy Butusov published "a list of six seriously wounded Ukrainian servicemen of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade who were left during the breakthrough from Zenit stronghold near Avdiivka on Feb. 14" on his Facebook: Pavlov, Dubnytskyi, Baranovskyi, Savosik, Zhitnik, Zinchuk (spelling of surnames has been preserved ed.). 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 Avelo Airlines will add flights to the Bay Area from Salem starting in May. Four months after commercial air service was relaunched at Salem Airport, Avelo Airlines is adding a third destination from Oregon's capital city. Starting May 3, people can fly from Salem to the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport, which serves the Bay Area and Sonoma wine country region. Starting one-way fares were listed at $62. The airport currently has routes through Avelo Airlines to Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area. After a nearly 15-year absence, commercial air service returned to Salem Airport in October. Avelo officials said when the airline began offering flights in Salem more destinations could be added in 2024. Avelo Airlines is an ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Houston. It currently serves 45 destinations in 24 states, including the Eugene Airport. For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on Twitter at @wmwoodworth This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Salem airport adds Avelo Airlines flight to Sonoma, California Former CNN Anchor John Avlon filed to run for Congress after leaving the news network two weeks ago. Avlon will be running as a Democrat in New Yorks 1st Congressional District, according to Federal Election Commission (FEC) fillings. His decision to run for the lower chamber comes after he announced on Feb. 8 his departure from CNN where was an anchor and a senior political analyst. He joins a cohort of candidates on the Democratic side that are vying to unseat Rep. Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.). LaLota is serving his first term in Congress after succeeding former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.). He was one of a dozen Republican New York freshmen who contributed to flipping the lower chamber red in 2022. Avlon, the former editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast, joined CNN in 2010 and became a full-time employee of the network in 2018. The former CNN political analyst will be running against former state Senator James Gaughran and former administrative law judge in New York City Craig Herskowitz who also worked for former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomos administration. Organic chemist Nancy Goroff is also running in the primary after losing to Zeldin in 2020 by 11 points. New Yorks 1st Congressional District covers the eastern area of Long Island and Suffolk County and is considered a purple swing seat. Puck reported on Feb. 9 Avlons intention to run for the seat. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (KRON) The Livermore Police Department is warning the public to take precautions against license plate thieves. According to a social media post from Livermore PD, thieves are stealing plates belonging to law abiding citizens in the community and placing them on vehicles being used to commit crimes to go undetected or mislead law enforcement. Were committed to keeping our community safe, and one way to do that is by preventing license plate theft from your vehicles, Livermore PD posted. Why there could soon be a hiring boom among Bay Area tech companies The department provided several tips for motorists to prevent their license plate from being stolen and being used in crimes. Tips for preventing license plate theft: Use anti-theft screws: Invest in anti-theft screws for your license plates. These specialized screws require unique tools for removal, making it much harder for thieves to steal your plates. Park in well-lit areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit areas with high foot traffic. Thieves are less likely to attempt theft in areas where they can be easily seen. Utilize surveillance cameras: Choose parking spots that are within view of security cameras or in busy areas monitored by law enforcement. This can deter thieves and aid in identifying suspects if theft occurs. Check regularly: Make it a habit to check your license plates regularly, especially after leaving your vehicle parked for extended periods. Quick inspections can help you detect any tampering or attempted theft. Report suspicious activity: If you notice anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles or attempting to tamper with license plates, dont hesitate to report it to local authorities immediately. If you notice your license plates have been stolen, Livermore PD asks that you immediately call to report the theft. By taking these precautions, you can proactively reduce the risk of license plate theft and help to maintain the safety and security of our community, Livermore PD said. Lets work together to protect your vehicles and our community! For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. A bicyclist was left in life-threatening condition after he was struck by a vehicle in downtown Boise over the weekend, according to a news release from the Boise Police Department. At around 9:45 p.m. Sunday, a man was hit at the intersection of South 9th and West River streets, police said. The vehicle was in the turn lane on River Street and heading south onto 9th Street when it struck the cyclist in the crosswalk, according to police. Two bystanders who work in health care assisted the first police officer on the scene with medical care until paramedics arrived and took the man to a hospital, the news release said. Police said the man was suffering from serious, life-threatening injuries. The Boise Police Department is investigating the crash and said no criminal charges have been filed. Last year, at least 277 people were killed in crashes, making 2023 one of the deadliest years for traffic deaths in decades in Idaho. Additionally, bicyclist deaths nearly doubled. By Trevor Hunnicutt and Jeff Mason CULVER CITY, California/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden said on Wednesday his administration is cancelling $1.2 billion worth of student loans for nearly 153,000 people who are eligible under a program used to make good on his promises to increase loan forgiveness. Biden, a Democrat, last year pledged to find other avenues for tackling debt relief after the Supreme Court in June blocked his broader plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt. Left-leaning progressive and young voters, whose support Biden needs to win re-election in November, have been vocal in advocating for student loan forgiveness on a wide scale. Republicans largely oppose such actions. "While a college degree is a ticket to a better life, that ticket is too expensive," Biden said during a trip to California that has been focused primarily on fundraising for his re-election campaign. Biden said the latest round of debt relief would be "a huge help to graduates of community college and borrowers with smaller loans, putting them back on track faster for debt forgiveness than ever before." The administration has now canceled some $138 billion in student debt for nearly 3.9 million people through executive actions, the White House said. The latest announcement applies to people enrolled in a repayment program known as Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) and covers those who borrowed $12,000 or less who have been repaying the money for at least 10 years. The SAVE plan, according to the White House, takes into account a debt holder's income and family size when setting monthly payments and makes sure balances cannot grow from unpaid interest if the borrowers are making regular payments. Recipients of the relief will receive an e-mail from Biden. "I hope this relief gives you a little more breathing room," Biden writes in the note, provided by the White House. "I've heard from countless people who have told me that relieving the burden of their student loan debt will allow them to support themselves and their families, buy their first home, start a small business, and move forward with life plans they've put on hold." (Reporting by Jeff Mason and Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Miral Fahmy and Alistair Bell) Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna of California, a surrogate for President Biden's reelection campaign, is meeting in his personal capacity with Arab American and Muslim leaders in Michigan this week to discuss U.S. policy toward Israel, amid a growing push by activists who are encouraging Democrats to cast protest votes in next week's primary. Local organizers are pushing for Michigan voters to choose the "uncommitted" option in Tuesday's election as a way to object to the Biden administration's support for Israel in its war with Hamas in Gaza. Many Arab American activists in the state have also signaled they might not vote at all in the November general election, which could harm Mr. Biden's electoral chances in a critical battleground he won by a slim margin in 2020. Khanna was an early supporter of a permanent mutual cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, where the total death toll stands at more than 29,000 since Hamas' attacks across Israel on Oct. 7, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Last week, Mr. Biden said Israel should not move forward with an offensive in southern Gaza without a "credible" plan to protect civilians, and his administration has worked to negotiate a hostage deal that would pause fighting in Gaza for at least six weeks. The U.S. vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire on Tuesday, and instead circulated its own proposal linking a cease-fire to the release of hostages. Khanna's visit to Michigan Rep. Ro Khanna during an interview on Capitol Hill on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. / Credit: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images Khanna is a member of the Biden campaign's "national advisory board," and was already planning to visit Michigan for an event with Rep. Debbie Dingell. He said he arranged meetings with community leaders himself to "show respect, to understand what their concerns are" and to talk about building support in Congress for a cease-fire, securing the release of hostages and opposing further aid to Israel. "Engagement is necessary to earn back their trust. And this is feedback I'll provide my colleagues and the administration," he said in an interview with CBS News. "It is insulting to be talking about electoral calculus when you're dealing with the kind of human tragedy [in Gaza]. I understand that. My interest is seeing what we can do to bring about a change in Congress and the White House on foreign policy," he added. On Thursday, Khanna is attending a town hall at the University of Michigan with Dingell to discuss a cease-fire in Gaza, according to a copy of his schedule shared with CBS News. He will then attend an event put on by the Michigan League of Conservation Voters with Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who was the first member of Michigan's congressional delegation to support the push to vote uncommitted in the state's primary. Khanna will also meet privately with Abdul El-Sayed, a 2018 gubernatorial candidate whom Khanna supported, and Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, who pushed for the Biden administration to call for a permanent cease-fire in Gaza. Hammoud wrote that he will be voting uncommitted in an op-ed in the New York Times on Tuesday. On Friday, Khanna will meet with two Michigan state representatives, Ranjeev Puri and Abraham Aiyash, both of whom have advocated for a mutual cease-fire. "By listening empathetically, we can hopefully win back the trust of this community that will be absolutely critical to winning Michigan, not just because of their votes, but because of the signal they will send to voters of color, young voters, progressives across Michigan and across the country," the California Democrat said. The "uncommitted" vote Organizers behind the "uncommitted" push say they're aiming to capture between at least 10% and 20% of the overall primary vote on Tuesday as a way of applying political pressure on Mr. Biden. "It's a strategic opportunity to send a signal to the president that he's got to change course," said Joseph Geevarghese, the executive director of Our Revolution, a progressive group actively lobbying their members to vote uncommitted. "What we are telling the White House is, you are risking not only your electoral future but our democracy with your insistence on this wrongheaded policy. So the onus is on them," said Wa'el Alzayat, the CEO of Emgage, a national Muslim voter organization holding phone banks in support of the uncommitted vote. Members of Emgage are expected to meet with Khanna during a community gathering on Thursday morning. Michigan Democratic officials remain optimistic, holding on to the hope that increased outreach with "uncommitted" voters will help them come around to Mr. Biden come Election Day in November. "You're hearing Michiganders express their viewpoints and an [un]committed vote is not a vote that says 'I'm not voting for Biden in November.' It's saying, 'I have concerns,'" Dingell said in a press conference last week. "It's a long time between now and November." Khanna said while he has "tremendous respect" for the push to vote uncommitted, "if I were a Michigan voter, I'd vote for President Biden." Khanna's trip comes after local leaders refused to meet with Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez-Rodriguez in late January. Local organizers also said a meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris earlier this month at the White House was postponed, due to the administration's relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Harris will be in the state on Thursday for an event on women's reproductive rights. Both Alzayat and Geevarghese touted Khanna's foreign policy credentials on Gaza and the Middle East, as well as his previous outreach to Arab American and Muslim voters, as a reason that local leaders agreed to meet with him. Khanna called the willingness from some Arab American and Muslim leaders to meet with him "constructive." In one meeting between Biden administration officials and Arab American and Muslim Michigan leaders in February, a top Biden aide admitted there were "missteps" in the communication of U.S. policy regarding Israel and Gaza. Some attendees of that meeting walked away unconvinced. "Our community is rightfully angry and will not accept future engagements or dialogues with this administration unless and until an immediate cease-fire is implemented," said Osama Siblani, the co-founder and former president of the Arab American Political Action Committee in Dearborn, Michigan. "We emphasize the need for tangible actions beyond mere rhetoric." Nikki Haley vows to continue campaign through Super Tuesday What Capital One buying Discover could mean for consumers Haley defies calls from Trump to drop out of 2024 race Its been over than a year since Republicans took over the House of Representatives and launched a series of investigations into President Joe Biden and his family. And, over the course of that year, it has become increasingly apparent that the sources of whatever dirt Republicans claim to have can all be traced back to one man: former president Donald Trump. The Republican-led impeachment inquiry into Mr Biden has been beset by pratfalls and embarrassments for the two committee chairmen most responsible for the investigation, House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer and Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan. Even as Mr Comer and Mr Jordan and their compatriots met on Wednesday for a transcribed interview with Mr Bidens brother James Biden, their justification for the sprawling investigation has been steadily falling apart as it has been exposed as little more than an errand carried out on behalf of Mr Trump and even foreign intelligence officials looking to damage the president. In his opening statement to the Republican-led committees, James Biden made clear that his brother has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in any of the businesses he has worked at during his 50-year career. The presidents brother also hit out at critics who claim his business career has benefitted from the elder Mr Bidens political career, telling the House panel that those whove accused him of being a hanger-on have been either mistaken, ill informed, or flat-out lying. James Bidens testimony largely squares with what was said under oath by a former associate of Mr Bidens son Hunter, an ex-US Navy officer called Tony Bobulinski. For anyone who paid attention to Mr Trumps shambolic efforts to smear Mr Biden during his 2020 bid, Mr Bobulinskis name should be a familar one. Just hours before Mr Trump and Mr Biden met for their final general election debate, reporters covering the debate were summoned by the presidents campaign to a hotel conference room. There, they were introduced to Mr Bobulinski, who proceeded to show them several non-functional mobile phones and claim that Mr Biden had been a co-stockholder in a failed business venture his son had explored with a Chinese energy conglomerate. But when Mr Bobulinski appeared before Mr Comer and Mr Jordans panels last week, he was unable to produce any evidence backing up his claims. He even tried to deny he had any links to Mr Trumps campaign during a session which Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin slammed as chaotic to the point of burlesque. Though Mr Bobulinski eventually admitted that he had indeed attended that 2020 debate as a guest of the former president, his appearance before the House panels presented yet another link between him and Mr Trumps campaign his lawyer. The former naval officer was represented during his House interview by Stefan Passantino, a Republican elections lawyer and former Trump White House attorney who achieved a measure of notoriety when it was revealed that hed pushed former Trump White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson to conceal testimony during the Houses investigation into the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. According to a transcript of one of Ms Hutchinsons interviews with the House January 6 select committee, she told the panel after shed obtained new counsel that Mr Passantino had advised her: The less you remember, the better. And, according to an FBI memorandum of a 2020 interview of Mr Bobulinski by FBI agents, Mr Passantino represented the former naval officer even as he was working for the Trump campaign as an attorney. And now, Mr Passantino is still on the Trump campaign payroll as the former president continues his efforts to return to the White House. Federal Election Commission reports reviewed by The Independent show Mr Passantinos firm, Elections LLC, receiving $92,500 during the last six months of 2023 from the Make America Great Again PAC, $90,000 from the MAGA Inc Super PAC, and another $150,000 from three other Trump-linked political committees during the same period of time. Not only is the Republican partys star witness against Mr Biden a witness who couldnt back up his claims conclusively linked to Mr Trump, but the FBI informant who started the entire impeachment enterprise has been shown to be both a liar and a purveyor of foreign intelligence. Last week, special prosecutor David Weiss obtained a grand jury indictment in the Central District of California against a former FBI source, Alexander Smirnov, on charges that he made false statements to federal investigators about Mr Biden and his son Hunter. Prosecutors allege that Mr Smirnov made the false allegations to agents in June 2020, when he allegedly told them about two meetings with an executive from Burisma, the Ukrainian energy company which employed Hunter as an attorney and later as a member of its corporate board. Mr Smirnov allegedly told agents that executives associated with Burisma, including Burisma Official 1, admitted to him that they hired [Hunter Biden] to protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems. He also allegedly told agents that the Burisma executives had made $5m payments to both Joe and Hunter Biden when the elder Mr Biden was vice president, so that Hunter would take care of all those issues through his dad, referring to a criminal probe involving Burisma being conducted in Ukraine. Prosecutors further alleged that Mr Smirnov told agents about a phone call with the executive, in which he claimed hed been forced to pay the alleged bribes and said it would take investigators a decade to find evidence of the payments. Those allegations have been heavily leaned on by the Republican members of Congress conducting an impeachment investigation into the president But it turns out that Mr Smirnov wasnt acting only out of some partisan animus against the Bidens. According to court documents, prosecutors believe Mr Smirnov has been actively peddling new lies he picked up from officials associated with Russian intelligence who he claimed had been involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden. Prosecutors also said Mr Smirnov has reported numerous contacts with a top Russian intelligence official they described as the son of a former high-ranking Russian government official, someone who purportedly controls two groups of individuals tasked with carrying out assassination efforts in a third-party country, a Russian representative to another country, and as someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service. The misinformation he is spreading is not confined to 2020. He is actively peddling new lies that could impact US elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials in November, they said. In 2016, Mr Trump allegedly benefited from Russias effort to interfere in the presidential election on his behalf. Based on what we now know, it certainly appears he and his allies could be banking on a repeat performance to smear the Bidens. James Biden, the presidents brother, is set to appear before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee behind closed doors Wednesday, the first of two high-profile testimonies the panel will hear this month as part of its impeachment inquiry into President Biden. Republicans leading the investigation have alleged the president was deeply involved in family business dealings including those of his younger brother that were tainted by corruption and influence peddling that hinged on the powerful Biden name. The Republicans have yet to provide clear evidence backing those claims, however, and theyre hoping the younger Bidens testimony Wednesday will yield the smoking gun theyve so far failed to dig up. His appearance comes just days after an explosive Politico investigation found James Biden invoked his brothers name in negotiations with a rural health care company, Americore Health, which would later collapse into bankruptcy an issue Oversight Republicans are vowing to broach during Wednesdays testimony. He once again has a lot to answer, Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.), a member of the Oversight and Accountability Committee, said Tuesday on Fox News. Its great to see that hes finally coming in for this interview. A year ago, I think that the administration would have denied that they would ever have Biden family members coming before the Oversight Committee as part of this impeachment inquiry. This is going to be a very important moment in this investigation, he added. Yet Republicans are facing challenges in their impeachment investigation. Wednesdays long-sought interview comes less than one week after the Justice Department indicted an FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, who was a central piece of the GOPs allegations against President Biden, undercutting the Republican effort to implicate the president directly in his familys activities. Republicans have brushed aside the significance of Smirnovs indictment and downplayed his importance to their impeachment inquiry, with Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) arguing the probe is not reliant on the information he provided. But the arrest, nonetheless, has thrown the Republicans allegations under a harsh new light, putting Comer and GOP lawmakers in the hot seat as they barrel ahead with their investigation. James Bidens testimony on Wednesday comes exactly a week before the Oversight Committee has scheduled a closed-door deposition with Hunter Biden the presidents son who has been the focus of years-long allegations that he leaned on his fathers influence to secure a series of shady business deals overseas. A good portion of Wednesdays interview with James Biden is expected to focus on the Republicans allegations that a series of loans between the brothers were part of a tangled web of payments that ultimately constituted a bribery scheme. The panel, however, has not provided information to prove those claims. Specifically, GOP lawmakers have highlighted two checks James Biden paid his brother one for $200,000 and the other for $40,000 at a time when Joe Biden was not serving in political office. The Bidens have described the $200,000 check from James Biden, which was written after he received a loan from Americore Health, as an unrelated loan repayment. James Biden allegedly told the company his name could open doors in the Middle East, but he did not end up assisting. Additionally, the loan payment does not bear any connections to foreign work. The $40,000 check was also characterized as a loan repayment. It was written after Hunter Biden landed a deal with a Chinese energy company and wired money to James Biden, some of which he used to repay President Biden. Republicans have zeroed in on that payment as part of their allegation that the president took laundered money from China. Democrats have raced to the Bidens defense, also contending that the transfer of money between the brothers just amounts to short-term loans between family members that were made when Joe Biden was out of office and a private citizen. It is an undeniable fact that Republicans allegations against President Biden have always been a tissue of lies built on conspiracy theories, Rep. Jamie Raskin (Md.), senior Democrat on the Oversight and Accountability Committee, said after Smirnovs arrest. Hes asking GOP leaders to end their impeachment investigation altogether. The high-profile appearances by James and Hunter Biden come more than two months after the House formally approved its impeachment inquiry into President Biden in a 221-212 party-line vote, a move that Republicans had hoped would give more legal weight to their probe. The vote came after then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) announced the start of the impeachment inquiry in September. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. James Biden testified on Wednesday that his older brother, President Joe Biden, had no role in any of his business venturesyet another blow to Republican lawmakers leading a flagging impeachment inquiry centered around as-yet-unproven allegations to the contrary. The younger Biden brothers assertion was part of a lengthy opening statement he gave ahead of fielding questions from the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees in a closed-door deposition. I have had a 50-year career in a variety of business ventures, he said, according to a copy of the 10-page statement obtained by The Daily Beast. Joe Biden has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities, Biden said. None. It was one of several critical points that Biden, 74, wanted to make clear in his interview, along with his intimate knowledge of the presidents personal integrity and character and his own strong ethics. Because of these factors, Biden claimed, he had always sequestered his professional life from his relationship to his brother. I never asked my brother to take any official action on behalf of me, my business associates, or anyone else, Biden said, adding, In every business venture in which I have been involved, I have relied on my own talent, judgment, skill, and personal relationshipsand never my status as Joe Bidens brother. Those who have said or thought otherwise were either mistaken, ill informed, or flat-out lying. Republicans, led by Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-OH) and Oversight Chair James Comer (R-KY), then proceeded to pepper Biden with questions over the next few hours, according to Politico, digging for dirt or any sign of a link between the president and his familys overseas business deals. During a break in the proceedings, Jordan told reporters that he wondered if Biden might have been conveniently forgetting something. I dont know, but some of his answers just dont make a whole lot of sense, the Ohioan added. Republicans have zeroed in on two checks worth $200,000 and $40,000 that Biden sent to his older brother in 2017 and 2018, circling them as a possible smoking gun. But James Biden characterized the checks in his opening statement as nothing more than short-term loans that I received from Joe when he was a private citizen, and I repaid them within weeks. The complete explanation is that Joe lent me money, and I repaid him as soon as I had the funds to do so, he said, an explanation backed up by previous reporting. Democrats reacted to Wednesdays proceedings with eye-rolls and weary frustration, as Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) called for Republicans to close their inquiry. I think its time for Chairman Comer and the Republicans to fold up the circus tent, Raskin, the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, told reporters. He also said that it felt in the interview room as though everybody was aware the investigation was fizzling out, according to The New York Times. The impeachment investigation essentially ended yesterday in substance if not in form with the explosive revelation that Mr. Smirnovs allegations about Ukrainian Burisma payments to Joe Biden were concocted along with Russian intelligence agents, Raskin said. The congressman was referring to Alexander Smirnov, a former FBI informant anduntil last Thursday, when he was charged with lying about a bribery scheme involving the Bidens to federal authoritiesa key witness in the Republicans impeachment quest. Smirnov has since told federal agents that Russian intelligence officials fed him false information about Hunter Biden, according to prosecutors. It appears like the whole thing is not only obviously false and fraudulent, Raskin added on Wednesday, but a product of Russian disinformation and propaganda. But Jordan soft-pedaled the news of Smirnovs indictment in speaking with reporters, dismissing it as insignificant in the grand scheme of the inquiry. Well, I mean, it is what it is, he said, according to The Hill. It doesn't change the fundamental facts. Hunter Biden is expected to testify before the House committees next week. 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 Biden administration announced Wednesday it is forgiving a total of $1.2 billion in student debt for roughly 153,000 borrowers. The relief comes through the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, which made changes to income-driven repayment plans in the wake of a Supreme Court decision overturning President Bidens more ambitious student loan debt cancellation plan. The first batch of loan forgiveness through the SAVE plan was planned for July, but the Education Department identified eligible borrowers sooner. This plan reflects our unapologetic commitment to deliver as much relief as possible to as many borrowers as possible, as quickly as possible, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a Tuesday call with reporters. Were providing real, immediate breathing room from an unacceptable reality where student loan payments compete with basic needs. Under the SAVE plan, those who borrowed less than $12,000 can have their debt forgiven after 10 years of payments. The Education Department will reach out next week directly to borrowers who are eligible for relief but are not currently enrolled in the SAVE plan. We have more work to do to cancel even more student debt, but today is a good day and we applaud the administration for continuing to work with us to help working families and particularly minority communities free themselves from the burden of this crushing debt, Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), who has urged Biden to be aggressive in forgiving student debt, said in a statement. The White House has in recent months been rolling out additional announcements on student debt relief as Biden seeks to deliver on his problem to wipe out what millions of Americans owe in loans. The Supreme Court last June struck down Bidens original proposal to cancel $10,000 of student loans for low- and middle-income borrowers. The administration announced last week it will seek to give student debt forgiveness to those experiencing hardship. The hardship category is one of five in Bidens new student debt relief plan that is going through the negotiated rulemaking process, where relevant stakeholders come together to discuss and revise the presidents proposals before the final plan is determined. Updated at 1:35 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Biden administration is considering a string of new executive actions and federal regulations in an effort to curb migration at the U.S. southern border, according to three people familiar with the plans. The proposals under consideration would represent a sweeping new approach to an issue that has stymied the White House since its first days in office and could potentially place the president at odds with key constituencies. Among the ideas under discussion include using a section of the Immigration and Nationality Act to bar migrants from seeking asylum in between U.S. ports of entry. The administration is also discussing tying that directive to a trigger meaning that it would only come into effect after a certain number of illegal crossings took place, said the three people, who were granted anonymity to discuss private deliberations. A trigger mechanism was part of a bipartisan Senate border deal that never reached the floor earlier this month. During the deals construction, President Joe Biden repeatedly said it would have given him the authority to shut down the border. The administration is also discussing ways to make it harder for migrants to pass the initial screening for asylum seekers, essentially raising the credible fear standard, as well as ways to quickly deport others who dont meet those elevated asylum standards. Two of the people said the policy announcements could come as soon as next week ahead of President Joe Bidens State of the Union speech on March 7. The slate of policies could allow the administration officials to fill some of the void left after congressional Republicans killed a bipartisan border deal in the Senate. But it would also open up the administration to criticism that it always had the tools at its disposal to more fully address the migrant crisis but waited to use them. No final decisions have been made about what executive actions, if any, could be taken, an administration official said, speaking about internal deliberations only on condition of anonymity. Administrations often explore a number of options, the official said, though it doesnt necessarily mean the policies will come to fruition. The consideration of new executive action comes as the White House tries to turn the border deal failure into a political advantage for the president. It also comes amid growing concern among Democrats that the southern border presents a profound election liability for the party. Officials hope that policy announcements will drive down numbers of migrants coming to the border and demonstrate to voters that theyre exhausting all options to try to solve the problem as peak migration season quickly approaches. The Administration spent months negotiating in good faith to deliver the toughest and fairest bipartisan border security bill in decades because we need Congress to make significant policy reforms and to provide additional funding to secure our border and fix our broken immigration system, said White House spokesperson Angelo Fernandez Hernandez. No executive action, no matter how aggressive, can deliver the significant policy reforms and additional resources Congress can provide and that Republicans rejected, he continued. The three people familiar with the planning cautioned that the details of proposed actions remain murky and that the impact of the policies particularly the asylum ban is also dependent on the specific language of the federal regulation, they said. For example, the Senate bill included exceptions for unaccompanied minors and people who meet the requirements of the United Nations Convention Against Torture rules. There are other complications as well. The implementation of any action from the White House would come without the funding and resources that could make implementation easier, though the administration is looking into ways to unlock additional funding. The actions would likely face legal challenges as well. The Trump administration repeatedly used Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to aggressively shape the immigration system. In late 2018, President Donald Trump signed a policy that temporarily barred migrants who tried to illegally cross into the U.S. outside of official ports of entry. It was quickly blocked by a federal judge in California. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the decision, which was then upheld by the Supreme Court. The policies, once announced, will likely be met with steep backlash from immigration advocates who will claim the president is once again walking back on his campaign promises to rebuild a humane immigration system and protect the right to asylum. The News The Biden administration is imposing new cybersecurity rules at U.S. ports that are driven in part by concerns about Chinese hacking targeting critical infrastructure. President Joe Biden will sign a new executive order Wednesday giving the Department of Homeland Security more power to address cybersecurity threats at U.S. ports, which will require vessels and maritime facilities to report cyberattacks, senior administration officials said. The Coast Guard is also proposing new cybersecurity requirements for port operators, as well as a new, secret directive specific to operators of Chinese-manufactured cranes. By design, these cranes may be controlled, serviced, and programmed from remote locations, said Rear Adm. John Vann, commander of the Coast Guard Cyber Command, which he said would make them potentially vulnerable to exploitation. Know More Chinese crane manufacturer ZPMC controls roughly 70% of the global market for cranes and an estimated 80% of ship-to-shore cranes at U.S. ports. While the administration isnt looking to rip and replace the Chinese-made cranes now, said Anne Neuberger, the White House deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, the administration plans to spend $20 billion in infrastructure funds to purchase new, trusted cranes over the next five years. As a result, the White House said that PACECO Corp., a subsidiary of the Japanese company Mitsui, would bring back its crane manufacturing to the U.S. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, dismissed assertions that Chinese-made cranes represent a security risk as entirely paranoia and accused the U.S. of overstretching the concept of national security and abusing national power to obstruct normal economic and trade cooperation. The announcements come on the heels of recent warnings about Chinese hackers targeting U.S. critical infrastructure, but Neuberger insisted the actions were driven by broader concerns that also include criminal activity. Neuberger is expected to host an event in Virginia later Wednesday focused on the new announcements. President Joe Biden on Wednesday will announce $1.2 billion of student debt relief for nearly 153,000 borrowers and hes sending emails to make sure they know whom to thank for it. The administrations latest tranche of loan forgiveness covers borrowers who are enrolled in Bidens new loan repayment program, initially borrowed $12,000 or less and have been repaying their debt for at least 10 years. Biden will tout the relief and his administrations broader efforts to cancel student loan debt for tens of millions of Americans during remarks in Los Angeles on Wednesday. The White House said the event will include some of the borrowers who will benefit from the announcement as well as those whove previously had their debts canceled by Biden. The administration says that it has now approved loan discharges totaling nearly $138 billion for nearly 3.9 million borrowers through dozens of administrative actions since coming into office. But a challenge for the Biden reelection campaign and Democratic allies is making sure that the president gets credit for canceling that debteven as the White House explores ways to further increase the number of Americans receiving loan relief. Congratulationsall or a portion of your federal student loans will be forgiven because you qualify for early loan forgiveness under my Administrations SAVE Plan, says the email message from Biden that the Education Department plans to send on Wednesday to the latest group of borrowers receiving loan forgiveness. I hope this relief gives you a little more breathing room, Biden writes in the message. The Education Department has previously sent out emails signed by Biden for some, but not all, previous rounds of debt relief. Many borrowers have posted screenshots of those emails in recent months across social media platforms. Previewing the announcement on Tuesday, a senior administration official told reporters that the emails are an important way to communicate with borrowers, to make sure emails get opened, and to raise the profile of the benefits that we're offering, and encourage more borrowers to take advantage of them. The latest tranche of loan forgiveness is part of Bidens new loan repayment program known as the SAVE plan that the administration finalized last year. It offers lower monthly payments based on borrowers income and an easier path to getting their debts ultimately canceled after years of payments. Previously, borrowers under federal income-driven repayment programs would have to make payments for 20 or 25 years before having their remaining balances forgiven. But Bidens SAVE plan reduces that timeline for many borrowers. The Education Department announced earlier this year it would implement that benefit automatically for borrowers about six months ahead of schedule. Under the plan, borrowers who originally borrowed $12,000 or less start receiving a discharge of their remaining balance after making 10 years of payments. That amount of time increases by one year for each additional $1,000 borrowed. For example, borrowers who initially borrowed $13,000 would need to repay for 11 years before receiving forgiveness, for example. Borrowers must be enrolled in the SAVE plan to receive that relief. The Education Department said it planned to reach out to borrowers theyve identified who would be eligible for loan forgiveness immediately if they sign up for the SAVE program. The department said that about 7.5 million borrowers are currently enrolled in the SAVE plan. About 4.3 million of those borrowers have income that is low enough to quality them for a $0 monthly payment. Republicans have slammed Bidens SAVE program as unfair and fiscally irresponsible, blasting the hundreds of billions of dollars the program is expected to cost. House Republicans passed legislation last year to nullify the program, though the effort fell short in the Senate. President Biden knocked former President Trump, his likely GOP rival in November, for his response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The former president, Trump, and other Republicans, refuse to hold Putin accountable for his death, Biden said in a video Tuesday. Instead, Trump said Navalnys death made him realize how bad America is. Biden, who has blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalnys death, cited that Trump didnt mention Putin in his response and instead complained about prosecutors, judges and Democrats conspiring against him. We are a nation in decline, a failing nation, Trump said in a Truth Social post, after news broke of the Russian opposition leaders death, which was confirmed by his family over the weekend. The president questioned him, asking: Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalnys death. Why cant Trump just say that? Biden said. Putins responsible; we have to stand up to Putin, he added, calling on House Republicans to pass the Senate-passed legislation to provide the funding for Ukraine. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has rejected bringing the legislation up on the House floor, and the White House has used the House recess as a political weapon to batter Republicans for going on vacation without passing the funding for Ukraine. The president, during a campaign reception in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening, again bashed Trump for his response to Navalny death. Trump fails to even condemn him. Its outrageous, he said to supporters. The White House is set to release a major sanctions package against Russia on Friday after Navalnys death. It is expected to hold Russia accountable for what happened to the opposition leader, as well as add to the sanctions against Russia since the start of the war. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The White House this month announced plans for how it will direct billions of dollars in funding toward semiconductors, marking a new phase in the implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act. The $280 billion legislation, signed into law in 2022, aims to bolster semiconductor production in the U.S. President Joe Biden's administration said Monday that it will funnel $1.5 billion to GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor manufacturing and design company, to increase its domestic output. Perhaps more significant, however, was Biden's dispatch earlier this month announcing the administration will use at least $5 billion to establish a National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), which will, among other things, support "the design, prototyping, and piloting of the latest semiconductor technologies," according to the White House. This latest effort is part of the government's expensive and protectionist public-private partnership meant to address concerns over a reliance on foreign countries, like China, for chips. "Semiconductors were invented in America and serve as the backbone of the modern economy," the White House said in a statement. "But today, the United States produces less than 10 percent of global supply and none of the most advanced chips." The NSTC will supposedly also play a crucial role in expanding the semiconductor workforce to manufacture computing chips that can complement advances in artificial intelligence and related industries. Semiconductors are projected to become a $1 trillion industry by 2030, according to McKinsey & Company. The CHIPS and Science Act has several eyebrow-raising elements, including $81 billion for the National Science Foundationdoubling the agency's budget over five years. Another $24 billion will go toward tax credits meant to subsidize and incentivize private companies to invest in semiconductors. While the legislation was likely well-intentioned, it was doomed to have protectionist ramifications. "To defeat China, the argument goes, the U.S. must adopt the tactics of the Chinese Communist Party, at least when it comes to high-end manufacturing," Reason's Eric Boehm wrote in January 2023. But that ham-handed approach to industrial policy and corporate welfare drives up the deficit and hampers economic growth at very little benefit to the taxpayer, who are forced to fund these initiatives. It's likely unsurprising that many large corporations lobbied for the CHIPS and Science Act, including Meta, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Apple, Northrop Grumman, Carrier, Trane, and General Dynamics, as well as labor unions like the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations and the Communications Workers of America. "Big government means big lobbying," wrote David Boaz, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. "When you lay out a picnic, you get ants. And today's federal budget is the biggest picnic in history." The CHIPS and Science Act passed with bipartisan support. But its detractors were also made up of strange bedfellows. Sen. Bernie Sanders (IVt.) and then-Rep. Kevin McCarthy (RCalif.) both referred to the law as "corporate welfare" and a "blank check." Sanders went as far as to call it a "bribe." "When the government adopts an industrial policy that socializes all the risk and privatizes all the profits, that is crony capitalism," Sanders said. He's not wrong. The law "is another episode of politicians granting favors to their friends in the semiconductor industry," Veronique de Rugy, a contributing editor at Reason and a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center, wrote last year. Such an approach "punishes those who aren't elite or can't organize to extract favors from politicians." Michelle Nuzzo-Kelly is an apt example. She was among the residents of Burnet Road near Syracuse, New York, who received several offers to purchase her home. But those offers didn't come from private buyers: They came from the government, as Onondaga County sought to expand a plot of land so it could attract a developer. Micron, one of the world's largest semiconductor manufacturing firms, is now set to build a facility there, thanks to lucrative taxpayer-funded subsidies from the state and federal government. "The offers to buy Nuzzo-Kelly's home were never really just offers," Boehm wrote when covering the case in November 2022. "They were demands backed by a threat to use government power to force her to sell." The post Biden Pours Out Another $6.5 Billion for the CHIPS Act's Costly Protectionism appeared first on Reason.com. WASHINGTON President Joe Biden on Tuesday called Donald Trump's recent remarks on NATO "dangerous" and questioned the former president's failure not to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. In a video clip posted on the president's X account, Biden highlighted the importance of NATO's Article 5 agreement, saying that it's not only important to the U.S., but also to the rest of the world. "The whole world knows if any adversary were to attack us, our NATO allies would have our back, and they know we would have their backs as well," Biden said. "And thats why what the former president has said is so dangerous," said Biden, who quoted Trump's recent comment saying that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to NATO countries that don't pay their share of defense. Biden said Trump's remark was "a statement heard around the world that does nothing but encourage bad behavior." The president then said he was appalled when he heard Trump hasn't blamed Putin for Navalny's death in prison last week. "Instead, Trump said Navalnys death made him realize how bad America is. He said, 'We are a nation in decline, a failing nation,'" Biden said. "Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalnys death. Why cant Trump just say that? Putin is responsible." To stand up to Putin, Biden said that the House must "act now" to pass the Senate-approved $95 billion emergency aid package that would provide desperately needed assistance to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. Trump's first public reaction to Navalny's death came on Monday, three days after Russia's prison service announced it. Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social that the Russian opposition leader's death "has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country," and he appeared to compare it to his own legal woes. The former president made a similar comment during a Fox News town hall Tuesday night and suggested that Navalny shouldn't have returned to Russia after he was poisoned in 2020. He was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away, and frankly, probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in because people thought that could happen, and it did happen, Trump said. The Biden administration is preparing to unveil major sanctions on Friday to hold Russia responsible for Navalny's death. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters Tuesday that the death of Navalny, who he said had been "killed," and Russia's capture of a town in eastern Ukraine over the weekend exemplify why Congress must pass the aid bill. "These two events are a reminder of just how high the stakes are and why we need Congress to stand up to Putin and take urgent action on this National Security Supplemental bill," he said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com MANILA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least 14 people were killed and three others critically injured after a truck fell into a cliff in Negros Oriental province in central Philippines on Wednesday. Police said the truck was traveling along a highway when the driver lost control of the vehicle in Mabinay town, causing it to overturn and roll into a ravine at around 1:30 p.m. local time. The upside-down truck pinned the passengers under the vehicle. Police and rescuers were on site to determine the cause of the fatal accident. CULVER CITY, Calif. (AP) President Joe Biden said Wednesday that while a college degree was still a ticket to a better life, that ticket is often too expensive, as he announced he was canceling federal student loans for nearly 153,000 borrowers. Biden, who is in the midst of a three-day campaign swing through California, made the announcement as part of a new repayment plan that offers a faster path to forgiveness, putting the spotlight on his debt cancellation efforts as he ramps up his reelection campaign. Too many Americans are still saddled with unsustainable debt in exchange for a college degree, he said from a local library, before he went on to campaign-related events. Loan relief helps the greater economy, he reasoned, because "when people have a student debt relief, they buy homes. They start businesses, they contribute. They engage. The administration began sending email notifications on Wednesday to some of the borrowers who will benefit from what the White House has called the SAVE program. The cancellations were originally scheduled to start in July, but last month the administration said it would be ready almost six months ahead of schedule, in February. Starting today, the first round of folks who are enrolled in our SAVE student loan repayment plan who have paid their loans for 10 years and borrowed $12,000 or less will have their debt cancelled, Biden posted on social media Wednesday. Thats 150,000 Americans and counting. And were pushing to relieve more." The first round of forgiveness from the SAVE plan will clear $1.2 billion in loans. The borrowers will get emails with a message from Biden notifying them that all or a portion of your federal student loans will be forgiven because you qualify for early loan forgiveness under my Administrations SAVE Plan. In his email to borrowers, Biden wrote he heard from countless people who have told me that relieving the burden of their student loan debt will allow them to support themselves and their families, buy their first home, start a small business, and move forward with life plans theyve put on hold. More than 7.5 million people have enrolled in the new repayment plan. He said Wednesday it was the kind of relief that can be life-changing for individuals and their families. Im proud to have been able to give borrowers like so many of you the relief you earned, he said, asking the crowd gathered for his speech how many had debt forgiven. Many raised their hands. During a quick stop at CJs Cafe before his library talk, Biden greeted customers, offering handshakes and hugs and posing for selfies. After his speech, Biden headed to San Francisco, where he was greeted by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and headed to a fundraiser at a private home, where he spoke of his efforts to combat climate change to a roomful of donors. Biden announced the new loan repayment plan last year alongside a separate plan to cancel up to $20,000 in loans for millions of Americans. The Supreme Court struck down his plan for widespread forgiveness, but the repayment plan has so far escaped that level of legal scrutiny. Unlike his proposal for mass cancellation which had never been done before the repayment plan is a twist on existing income-based plans created by Congress more than a decade ago. Biden said he remained steadfast in his commitment to fix our broken student loan system," working around the court's ruling to find other ways to get it done. Borrowers are eligible for cancellation if they are enrolled in the SAVE plan, originally borrowed $12,000 or less to attend college and have made at least 10 years of payments. Those who took out more than $12,000 will be eligible for cancellation but on a longer timeline. For each $1,000 borrowed beyond $12,000, it adds an additional year of payments on top of 10 years. The maximum repayment period is capped at 20 years for those with only undergraduate loans and 25 years for those with any graduate school loans. ___ Binkley and Long reported from Washington. U.S. President Biden boards Marine One for travel to California from Washinton, U.S. By Doina Chiacu WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday thrashed Republican rival Donald Trump's response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, asking, "Why does Trump always blame America?" After Navalny's death was reported on Friday, Biden directly blamed Russian leader Vladimir Putin, as did Trump's main rival for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Nikki Haley. Trump did not mention Navalny until a Monday post on his Truth Social platform that did not cast blame or express remorse, but alluded to his own legal problems as persecution and called the United States a nation in decline. "The former president, Trump, and other Republicans, refuse to hold Putin accountable for his death," Biden said. "Instead, Trump said Navalny's death made him realize how bad America was. "He said and I quote, 'We are a nation in decline, a failing nation.' Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" Biden said earlier Tuesday the United States will announce a major package of sanctions against Russia on Friday over the death of Navalny. Trump, the Republican frontrunner, is likely to face Democrat Biden in a rematch in November's presidential election. In an interview Tuesday with Fox News, Trump praised Navalny as "very brave" for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany, where he underwent treatment for what Western laboratory tests showed evidence of a Russian nerve agent. However, the former U.S. president also second-guessed that decision. "He probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country, as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that (death) could happen and it did happen," Trump said. During his 2017-2021 tenure in the White House, Trump drew criticism for his praise of Putin. Last week, he suggested the United States might not protect NATO allies who do not spend enough on defense from a potential Russian invasion. Biden on Tuesday called the NATO comments dangerous. "It does nothing but encourage bad behavior," Biden said. Biden folded the criticism into a video posted in Twitter in which he urged Republicans who control the House of Representatives to pass emergency security assistance for Ukraine in its war against Russia. "We have to stand up to Putin," Biden said. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Christopher Cushing) A large majority of Americans70 percent, according to the latest Gallup pollsupport marijuana legalization, and that sentiment is especially strong among younger voters. Gallup found that 79 percent of 18-to-34-year-olds thought marijuana should be legal, compared to 64 percent of adults 55 or older. Similarly, a Pew Research Center survey found that support for legalization was inversely correlated with age. It therefore makes sense that President Joe Biden, who has generated little enthusiasm among Americans of any age group, would try to motivate young voters by touting his support for "marijuana reform." The problem for Biden, a longtime drug warrior who is now presenting himself as a reformer, is that his position on marijuana falls far short of repealing federal prohibition, which is what most Americans say they want. His outreach attempts have clumsily obfuscated that point, as illustrated by a video that Vice President Kamala Harris posted on X (formerly Twitter) earlier this month. "In 2020," Harris writes in her introduction, "young voters turned out in record numbers to make a difference. Let's do it again in 2024." The video highlights "the largest investment in climate action in history," cancellation of "$132 billion in student debt," "the first major gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years," and $7 billion in subsidies for historically black colleges and universities. Then Harris says this: "We changed federal marijuana policy, because nobody should have to go to jail just for smoking weed." That gloss is misleading in several ways. Biden has not actually "changed federal marijuana policy." His two big moves in this area were a mass pardon for people convicted of simple possession under federal law and a directive that may soon result in moving marijuana from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, a category supposedly reserved for drugs with a high abuse potential and no recognized medical use that cannot be used safely even under a doctor's supervision, to Schedule III, which includes prescription drugs such as ketamine, Tylenol with codeine, and anabolic steroids. Although Harris, echoing Biden, says "nobody should have to go to jail just for smoking weed," that rarely happens. Biden's pardons, which excluded people convicted of growing or distributing marijuana, did not free a single prisoner, and they applied to a tiny fraction of possession cases, which are typically prosecuted under state law. When he announced the pardons in October 2022, Biden noted that "criminal records for marijuana possession" create "needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities." But his pardons do not remove those barriers. They do not entail expungement of marijuana records, which is currently not possible under federal law. The certificates that pardon recipients can obtain might carry weight with landlords or employers, but there is no guarantee of that. Biden's pardons also did not change federal law, which still treats simple marijuana possession as a misdemeanor punishable by a minimum $1,000 fine and up to a year in jail. So people can still be arrested for marijuana possession under federal law, even if they are unlikely to serve time for that offense (which would be true with or without Biden's pardons). The pardons that Biden announced on October 6, 2022, applied only to offenses committed "on or before the date of this proclamation." When he expanded those pardons on December 22, 2023, that became the new cutoff. Marijuana use still can disqualify people from federal housing and food assistance. Under immigration law, marijuana convictions are still a bar to admission, legal residence, and citizenship. And cannabis consumers, even if they live in states that have legalized marijuana, are still prohibited from possessing firearms under 18 USC 922(g)(3), which applies to any "unlawful user" of a "controlled substance." The Biden administration has stubbornly defended that last policy against Second Amendment challenges in federal court, where government lawyers have likened cannabis consumers to dangerous criminals and "lunatics." Worse, Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022, which increased the maximum prison sentence for marijuana users who own guns from 10 years to 15 years and created a new potential charge against them, which likewise can be punished by up to 15 years behind bars. This is the very same law that Harris touts as "the first major gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years." Biden, in short, has neither "decriminalize[d] the use of marijuana" nor "automatically expunge[d] all marijuana use convictions," as Harris promised on the campaign trail. Both of those steps would require congressional action that Biden has done little to promote. What about rescheduling? A recent poll commissioned by the Coalition for Cannabis Scheduling Reform, Marijuana Moment reports, found that "voters' impression of the president jumped a net 11 points" after they were informed about "the implications of the rescheduling review that the president initiated." That included "an 11-point favorability swing among young voters 18-25," who "will be critical to his reelection bid." But let's not get too excited. Since rescheduling has not happened yet, it is not true that Biden "changed federal marijuana policy" in this area either. And assuming that the Drug Enforcement Administration moves marijuana to Schedule III, as the Department of Health and Human Services recommended last August in response to Biden's directive, the practical impact would be limited. Rescheduling would facilitate medical research, and it would allow state-licensed marijuana suppliers to deduct business expenses when they file their federal tax returns, which is currently prohibited under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code. Even after rescheduling, however, marijuana businesses would remain criminal enterprises under federal law, which makes it hard for them to obtain financial services and exposes them to the risk of prosecution and asset forfeiture. For businesses that serve recreational consumers, prosecutorial discretion is the only protection against that risk. Cannabis consumers would still have no legally recognized right to own guns, and people who work in the cannabis industry would still face other disabilities under federal law, including life-disrupting consequences for immigrants. Rescheduling would not even make marijuana legally available as a prescription medicine, which would require approval of specific products by the Food and Drug Administration. In response to overwhelming public support for marijuana legalization, in other words, Biden has made modest moves that leave federal prohibition essentially untouched. While he does not have the authority to unilaterally deschedule marijuana, he cannot even bring himself to support legislation that would do that. Why not? During the 2020 campaign, Biden echoed seven decades of anti-pot propaganda, saying he was worried that marijuana might be a "gateway" to other, more dangerous drugs. "The truth of the matter is, there's not nearly been enough evidence that has been acquired as to whether or not it is a gateway drug," he said. "It's a debate, and I want a lot more before I legalize it nationally. I want to make sure we know a lot more about the science behind it.It is not irrational to do more scientific investigation to determine, which we have not done significantly enough, whether or not there are any things that relate to whether it's a gateway drug or not." After Biden took office, his press secretary confirmed that his thinking had not changed. "He spoke about this on the campaign," she said. "He believes in decriminalizing the use of marijuana, but his position has not changed." Biden's rationale for opposing legalization is the same line of argument that Harry J. Anslinger, who headed the Federal Bureau of Narcotics from 1930 to 1962, began pushing in the early 1950s after retreating from his oft-reiterated claim that marijuana causes murderous madness. "Over 50 percent of those young [heroin] addicts started on marijuana smoking," he told a congressional committee in 1951. "They started there and graduated to heroin; they took the needle when the thrill of marijuana was gone." Anslinger reiterated that point four years later, when he testified in favor of stricter penalties for marijuana offenses. "While we are discussing marijuana," a senator said, "the real danger there is that the use of marijuana leads many people eventually to the use of heroin." Anslinger agreed: "That is the great problem and our great concern about the use of marijuana, that eventually if used over a long period, it does lead to heroin addiction." Since then, a great deal of research has examined this issue, which is complicated by confounding variables that make the distinction between correlation and causation elusive. Biden nevertheless thinks "more scientific investigation" will reach a definitive conclusion. If he won't support legalization until we know for sure whether marijuana is a "gateway drug," he will never support legalization. The supposedly reformed drug warrior's intransigence on this issue poses an obvious challenge for Harris, a belated legalization supporter who is trying to persuade voters who take the same view that Biden is simpatico. Marijuana Moment reports that Harris' staff recently has been reaching out to marijuana pardon recipients, "seeking assurance that the Justice Department certification process is going smoothly and engaging in broader discussions about cannabis policy reform." According to Chris Goldstein, a marijuana activist who was pardoned for a 2014 possession conviction, the vice president's people get it. Goldstein was "surprised by how up to speed and nice everybody was," he told Marijuana Moment. "Her staff really did know the difference between rescheduling [and] descheduling, and they were interested to talk about it." No doubt Biden also understands the difference. The problem is that he supports the former but not the latter, which he rejects for Anslinger-esque reasons. Cheery campaign videos cannot disguise that reality. The post Biden Is Trying To Motivate Voters Who Oppose Pot Prohibition. Maybe He Should Stop Supporting It. appeared first on Reason.com. Joe Biden's brother was questioned in Congress Wednesday by Republican lawmakers leading an impeachment inquiry against the US president, who they say benefitted from illicit business. Republicans in the House of Representatives have accused Biden of engaging in corrupt business dealings during his time as vice president with his younger brother James and son Hunter -- who is also embroiled in his own, separate legal troubles. The investigation has dragged on into the 2024 election year despite it failing to produce any clear evidence of wrongdoing by the president, and Democrats have dismissed the probe as political muckraking aimed at denting Biden's campaign. James Biden, 74, was questioned about previous financial transactions and loan repayments that Republicans argue incriminate the Democratic president. "I have had a 50-year career in a variety of business ventures," James Biden said, according to a copy of his opening statement reported by The Washington Post. "Joe Biden has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities. None." Republicans have focused on the president's son Hunter Biden, saying he leveraged his father's name while he was vice president under Barack Obama to enrich himself with foreign business deals in Ukraine and China. The 54-year-old has also drawn scrutiny for his personal legal issues -- including federal gun and tax charges -- as well as problems with drug addiction. The Republicans' case against the president took another hit Tuesday when court filings revealed that a key FBI informant -- who was arrested last week on charges of lying to federal investigators -- said he received false information about Hunter Biden from Russian intelligence associates. Alexander Smirnov, 43, a dual US and Israeli national, was arrested last week and indicted for fabricating claims that Hunter Biden demanded multimillion-dollar bribes from Ukrainian firm Burisma -- on whose board he was serving at the time -- to protect it from an investigation when Biden was vice president. House Republicans are facing the prospect that they might not be able to muster their slim majority for an eventual impeachment vote. Should they prevail in the House, the subsequent trial would take place in the Democratic-led Senate, where it stands almost no chance of leading to a conviction. Democrats have accused the Republicans of trying to whip up the impeachment process as a political play ahead of the November presidential election. cjc/pno/nro/mlm/dw Rep. Mickey Dollens votes Jan. 31 during the third day of the special session of the House at the Oklahoma Capitol. Last fall, state Rep. Mickey Dollens held an interim hearing on Oklahoma's initiative and referendum process. Dollens said he was worried that other lawmakers would make the process more difficult. "I want to expose some of the tactics not only in Oklahoma, but across the country to undermine the ballot initiative process," Dollens told The Oklahoman in December. This year, Dollens' filed several measures that would expand access and, he said, better protect the process. Two measures have been assigned to committee: House Bill 3810, which would extend the deadline for gathering signatures was assigned to the Elections and Ethics Committee, while House Bill 3815, which prevents foreign contributions to ballot initiatives was originally assigned to the House Elections and Ethics Committee, then was withdrawn and assigned to the House Rules Committee. Then things changed. After the Ethics Commission expressed concern, House Bill 3815 was withdrawn from the House Rules Committee and is now being considered by the Ethics Commission as a commission rule. Since Dollens' measure created a new rule for the Ethics Commission, the commission staff asked Dollens to make the measure a rule request instead of going through the legislative process. Ethics rule would prevent foreign contributions in Oklahoma ballot initiatives "What his (Dollens) bill address was something new to the ethics rules," the commission's Executive Director Lee Anne Bruce Boone said. "And we talked to him about that and rather than going through as a law putting it through as a rule request." Dollens agreed. He withdrew the bill and filed a rule request with the Ethics Commission. "I think it's an important issue that needs to be addressed," he said. More: Oklahoma voters are at risk of losing the long-held right to override the legislature But just like the legislative process, Dollens' proposal has to clear several hurdles before it actually becomes a commission rule. Stephanie McCord, the commission's deputy director and general counsel, said once a rule is requested it has to go through a public hearing during a commission meeting. "If it's a pretty straight forward rule, we would introduce it, get a commissioner to sponsor it, research it, give our recommendations, draft the rule change and then notice it to the public," McCord said. Sometimes, she said, rules go through multiple public hearings. Once the commission adopts by a majority vote, the rules goes in front of the Oklahoma Legislature, who can approve, disapprove or alter the rule. McCord said the commission's proposed rules are normally sent to the Legislature in December. "We are required to have it done before the legislative session begins," she said. More: How a petition filed in secrecy helped move Oklahoma's capital from Guthrie to OKC For his part, Dollens said he'll push to get the rule in front of the commission and push for its adoption. "Currently, federal law prohibits foreign nationals from donating to federal, state or local candidate elections, except for ballot measures," he said. Because of that, Dollens said, different countries are attempting to influence state ballot initiatives across the United States. "Closing this loophole is needed to prevent foreign governments from interfering in our elections in any way." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: New rule would bar foreign influence on Oklahoma state questions Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to sign legislation that aims to reveal the evidence and testimony presented almost two decades ago to the South Florida grand jury that charged sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein with just one felony count of soliciting a prostitute. On Wednesday, the Florida Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 234, a companion to a bill that already passed in the House. Shortly after, DeSantis announced on the social media platform X that he will sign the bill into law. All files related to Jeffrey Epsteins criminal activity should be made public. While the federal government continues to stonewall accountability, Im glad the Legislature has taken action to release the grand jury material from the Florida state case, wrote DeSantis in his post on X. With DeSantis signature, SB 234 and HB 117 would change the current state law that keeps most grand jury proceedings a secret. Lawmakers are hoping that it will persuade a Palm Beach County judge to publicly release evidence and testimony presented to the grand jury that in 2006 weighed evidence that Epstein had lured teenage girls to his Palm Beach mansion and sexually abused them. The effort comes as Judge Luis Delgado overseeing a lawsuit brought against the Palm Beach County Clerks Office by the Palm Beach Post sorts through records to determine which of them, if any, can be made public. The public and the victims deserve to know if prosecutors steered the jury away from indicting Epstein on more severe charges, Sen. Tina Polsky, a Boca Raton Democrat and sponsor of SB 234, said during the Senate session on Wednesday. There is also a compelling public need to know if this system worked or failed. Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, R-Highland Beach, sponsored the bill that passed the House. READ the Miami Herald series Perversion of Justice In a judges hands The grand jury proceedings in Palm Beach County represent the start of how the politically-connected Epstein sex-trafficked young girls while using money and connections to shield himself from meaningful criminal liability for years. Critics of the early prosecution of Epstein question whether the state attorney at the time in Palm Beach County, Barry Krischer, soft-pedaled the case when he chose to present evidence to a grand jury rather than charge Epstein himself. The outcome so dissatisfied the Palm Beach police chief that he brought the case to the FBI. Under an agreement with the U.S. Attorney in South Florida, Epstein was allowed to take a plea deal that ultimately sent him to jail for 13 months much of which he spent in his West Palm Beach office through a work-release program. Years later, following the Miami Heralds Perversion of Justice series, which detailed lax efforts to hold Epstein to account and the stories of the girls lured into his orbit, federal prosecutors in Manhattan charged him with sex trafficking minors. He was found dead by hanging in his jail cell a month later. His death was ruled a suicide. His former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, was found guilty on various charges, including the sex-trafficking of a minor, and in 2022 she was sentenced to 20 years in prison. The legislation seeks to encourage the release of the 2006 grand jury evidence and testimony by expanding the circumstances under which such records can be made public. The proposed changes narrowly tailored to apply only to Epsteins case would ease confidentiality in cases where the subject of the grand jury inquiry is deceased, the inquiry is related to criminal or sexual activity with a person who was a minor at the time, and the testimony was previously disclosed by a court order. The legislation argues that all those circumstances should be considered when a judge is determining whether disclosure of grand jury records would be in the interest of furthering justice. Attorney Spencer Kuvin, who represented a handful of Epsteins victims, is hoping that if the legislation becomes law it will short circuit the current review of the grand jury proceedings by the Court. On behalf of the victims of Jeffrey Epstein that I represented, we are glad that the full account of what occurred can now be made public for the world to see exactly how the State Attorneys office dropped the ball in the prosecution of one of the worlds most notorious sexual predators, said Kuvin in a written statement to the Miami Herald. We eagerly await this bills signature by the Governor so that we can now get to see these proceedings. Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau staff writer Ana Ceballos contributed to this report. A bipartisan group of legislators want to relax local zoning rules that block apartments from being built in many Minnesota cities. The bill would supersede local zoning rules and require cities of 5,000 or more to legalize at least six types of homes from a menu that includes duplexes, cottage clusters, townhouses and small apartment buildings. Smaller cities would have to allow duplexes. "Now is the time to legalize more housing choices," said Rep. Mike Howard, DFL-Richfield. But zoning what kinds of buildings are legal to build and where is something cities and towns control. Local issues and resident preferences have shaped those rules, but proponents of the new bill say those local rules are too persnickety and end up excluding people from living where they want to live, in the kinds of homes they want. In cities like Oakdale, resident Kormasah Deward said, there is little space for duplexes, small apartments or even more modest houses. Most of the city's land is zoned for large single-family houses. The bill would not prevent building those, but it would make it possible to build something else, like a fourplex or cluster of cottages. Deward, an activist supporting the bill, said she would one day love to own one of the big homes with a big yard in Oakdale. "That's my dream too," Deward said. But that dream of the big house and yard is not in reach for everyone, and she said she wishes there were more housing options in her city. When she lost her apartment after the pandemic, Deward couldn't find any apartments she could afford there were just too few places. She spent a year and a half living in her car with her five children as she struggled to stay in Oakdale, near her work and the children's school. Finally she found more work and a new apartment. Already, Howard said, about a million Minnesotans live in cities where some version of these new rules exist. St. Paul passed zoning changes last year that will allow up to four units on many residential lots. City planners there did not expect overnight change but hoped for more affordable homes in the long term. Minneapolis' zoning changes, the so-called 2040 plan, have been hamstrung by a lawsuit demanding an environmental review, though city leaders are looking for a way to move forward. Where similar rules are in effect, change has been incremental. Richfield started allowing duplexes in any residential neighborhood just over a year ago. But so far, that zoning change and similar moves in Bloomington and Roseville have led to only a handful of proposals in the first year, not a tidal wave of developers buying houses to tear down. Though some city leaders support the bill, the League of Minnesota Cities, Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and other city groups have come out against the measure, which they see as stripping power from cities. The bill would also mean fewer residential developments are subject to a public comment process, with most projects subject only to review by city staff. The League of Minnesota Cities has said it worries residents' voices will be lost. Asked about public comment, Sen. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury, said she has heard from local leaders who were swayed against a project they believed in by a "loud minority" of residents. Eliminating public comment would make it easier to approve small apartments, she said, because local elected officials would not feel at political risk. With no spending attached, the duplex bill shows one way Democratic majorities could keep pushing for sweeping changes this year, even without a historic budget surplus. But legislators were quick to note that there are Republicans supporting the duplex bill in both the House and Senate. "I'm not the token Republican," said Rep. Jim Nash, R-Waconia, during a news conference Tuesday. He said urgency around affordable housing has grown, and more legislators are seeing the need for affordable homes and workforce housing in their districts across Minnesota. Housing and tenants' issues are becoming more pressing across the state, and homelessness is a growing problem, especially with Hennepin County emergency shelters housing twice as many people as they did a year ago. A rally Tuesday afternoon pressed other affordable-housing policies, and a Senate committee discussed a series of minor tenant protections, including a bill that would require developers to compensate renters if a new building was not completed by the start of a lease, such as happened to University of Minnesota students who tried to move into a Dinkytown complex last fall. For some legislators, the affordable-housing issue has become personal. Rep. Larry Kraft, DFL-St. Louis Park, said he often hears from constituents who would not be able to afford their suburban homes today, or whose children cannot live in the cities where they grew up. Nash said he hopes to see more affordable homes for his own family, "so all of my six kids could come back to the state of Minnesota." Hamas leader arrives in Cairo to hold talks on Gaza truce Xinhua) 08:52, February 21, 2024 GAZA, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday arrived in Cairo to hold talks with Egyptian officials on the Gaza truce. Hamas said in a brief statement sent to Xinhua that Haniyeh arrived in Cairo at the head of a delegation from the movement's leadership. It added that the talks will focus on the political and on-the-ground situation in light of the aggressive conflict in Gaza and the efforts made to stop the aggression, provide relief to citizens, and achieve the goals of the Palestinian people. The Hamas leader on Saturday accused Israel of impeding efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, saying that they "showed full flexibility in dealing with these issues, but it is clear so far that Israel continues to procrastinate in the negotiations." Israel has been fighting with Hamas in the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7, 2023, after the group launched a surprise attack on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people. Israel has so far killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza-based Health Ministry. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) DHAKA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- People in Bangladesh on Wednesday commemorated those who sacrificed for the language movement of Bangladesh in 1952. At one minute past midnight for the special day, Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina laid wreaths at the country's Central Shaheed Minar, a solemn and iconic monument, in capital Dhaka. A contingent of the Bangladesh Armed Forces gave a state salute, while a bugle played a dirge. After local and foreign representatives placed wreaths at the monument, it was opened to the public. People from all walks of life thronged to it to lay wreaths and bouquets of flowers to show their deep respect to those who lost their lives on Feb. 21 in 1952 to promote Bangla as a state language of then East Pakistan. In 1999, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared Feb. 21 as International Mother Language Day. Since 2000, the International Mother Language Day has been observed throughout the world every year to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. A fishing trip between two cousins turned deadly when their boat flipped, Georgia officials said. Responders received a call Sunday, Feb. 18, about a possible drowning in Ulmer Pond, according to a news conference Feb. 19 by the Valdosta Fire Department. After several hours of searching, a body was found, according to a City of Valdosta news release. Two cousins in their early 20s were out fishing on the frigid pond when their boat capsized, officials said. The pair were identified as Demarkus Mosley and CJ Johnson, WALB reported. Mosley escaped the pond with hypothermia, and rescuers immediately transported him to South Georgia Medical Center, according to the fire department. He has since been released, officials said. But Johnson was still missing when rescuers found Mosley, the department said. When officials heard how severe the situation was, they deployed drones, helicopters and sonar equipment to thoroughly investigate the area to find Johnson, the department said. Responders worked into the early morning Monday, when they temporarily paused to wait for more daylight, officials said. They restarted their search at sunrise, authorities said. Two hours after resuming their search, divers found Johnsons body, according to officials. Fishing was a way Mosley and Johnson bonded, Mosley told WALB after the accident. Sometimes, they would go out four to five times a week to just feel free, he said. But the moment when their boat flipped Sunday in Ulmer Pond haunts Mosley, WALB reported. You have thoughts ... it just a flashback continually going in my head of you know his voice, his screams, his hand coming out of the water. Its just those things right there that are continually popping up in my head, he said. Mosley did everything in his power to help his cousin, he told WALB. As he fought every odd to get me, I try to fight every odd to get him. Thats what really hurts is that I wasnt able to get him, he said. Johnsons death has left his mother, Lucky Davis, unable to imagine living without him, she wrote in a Feb. 20 Facebook post. After losing her brother in 2022 and her husband in 2023, her sons death marked a huge loss in her life, she said. What do I do now??? .... Idk how to go on without my baby! she posted. Johnsons body was sent to the Valdosta-Lowndes Regional Crime Laboratory for further examination, officials said. Valdosta is about 120 miles northwest of Jacksonville, Florida. Woman dies after slipping from cliff into ocean and getting swept away, Hawaii cops say Scuba diver found dead on shoreline weeks after vanishing in river, Oregon cops say 10 bodies pulled from Texas lake in 20 months, cops say. Now a family wants answers The leader of Boeing's troubled 737 Max programme is to leave the company, which has been under pressure since a piece of one of its jets blew out during a passenger flight in January. The departure of Ed Clark after nearly 18 years at the firm is part of a wider shake-up of the commercial airplane division announced on Wednesday. Boeing said the changes were aimed at improving its quality and safety. It comes as the firm prepares to meet with regulators. The company has been facing scrutiny since the incident on the Alaska Airline flight, which did not lead to serious injuries but forced an emergency landing. The incident revived wider questions about manufacturing processes for Boeing's popular 737 Max planes, years after crashes involving a different version of the jets in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people and led to a global grounding for 20 months. Boeing was barred last month from expanding its 737 Max output by the Federal Aviation Administration, while the authority reviewed its production line for the planes. Other less serious flaws have troubled production in recent years as Boeing ramped up manufacturing following the grounding. A preliminary investigation of what went wrong on the 737 Max 9 jet flown by Alaska Airlines found that bolts meant to fasten the door panel were missing, after being removed inside Boeing's factory in Renton Washington. Ed Clark was vice president and general manager of the 737 programme, overseeing the Renton, Washington factory that produced the plane involved in the blowout. Calls followed from safety campaigners for new leadership at the firm. He will be replaced by Katie Ringgold, currently vice president of 737 delivery operations. The company also announced it was creating a position of senior vice president for quality. In a message to staff on Wednesday, Stan Deal, the head of Boeing commercial airplanes division said the changes were aimed at "ensuring that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. Our customers demand, and deserve, nothing less". He said Mr Clark was leaving with the company's "deepest gratitude for his many significant contributions over nearly 18 years of dedicated service to Boeing". Boeing Co. fired the head of its 737 Max aircraft program Wednesday, shaking its leadership amid the fallout of a midair blowout of an Alaska Airlines door plug in January. Ed Clark, who headed the 737 Max division, will leave Boeing immediately, according to a memo from CEO Stan Deal. Deal said the leadership changes are emblematic of the companys enhanced focus on ensuring that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. Our customers demand, and deserve, nothing less. The Alaska Airlines incident resulted in an Federal Aviation Administration-mandated grounding of the 737 Max 9 aircraft and regulatory scrutiny that discovered numerous issues in the manufacturing process. The company recently announced it will completely overhaul its quality control process, especially at the Renton, Wash., factory where the 737 Max 9 aircraft are built. Inspectors discovered loose and missing bolts in multiple 737 Max 9 aircraft, including inside door plugs, the failed part that caused the Alaska Airlines incident. Nobody was injured in that case, but it sparked public backlash against the company and hurt its stock price. The companys stock has fallen about 12.5 percent since. Flights began on 737 Max 9 aircraft for the first time late last month, following intensive inspections. Clark took over the 737 Max program in 2021 after two crashes caused by a faulty autopilot system. The aircraft was grounded for nearly two years due to the crashes, which killed nearly 350 people. Ed departs with my, and our, deepest gratitude for his many significant contributions over nearly 18 years of dedicated service to Boeing, Deal wrote in the memo. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. DAMASCUS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry on Wednesday strongly criticized the United States for using its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a draft resolution demanding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. In a statement, the ministry condemned the U.S. veto as "arbitrary and disgraceful," accusing the U.S. of providing political and military cover for Israel to continue its "war crimes" against Palestinians. Moreover, the ministry accused the U.S. of being hypocritical, as it claimed to support human rights while allowed the Israeli "killing machine" to continue its attacks on Palestinian civilians. Meanwhile, the ministry called for the UN Security Council to take responsibility for stopping Israel's "crimes" and ensuring the protection of Palestinian lives and rights, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. During an emergency session of the UN Security Council held in New York on Tuesday, the U.S. vetoed a draft resolution put forward on behalf of Arab states by Algeria demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Algeria's draft resolution was backed by 13 out of the 15 Security Council members, while the United States vetoed against it and Britain abstained. It is the third time since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October of last year that the U.S. interfered to fail a draft resolution aimed to reach a ceasefire. Boeing on Wednesday replaced the head of its 737 Max program amid increased scrutiny of the aircraft manufacturer, following a frightening mid-flight incident involving a 737 Max 9 last month. Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal announced a broad leadership shakeup in an all-employee email this morning, including the departure of 18-year veteran Ed Clark, who oversaw both Max production and Boeings factory in Renton, Washington. Ed departs with my, and our, deepest gratitude for his many significant contributions over nearly 18 years of dedicated service to Boeing, Deal wrote. A person familiar with the move told the Seattle Times that Clarks departure was not voluntary. Deal also announced the creation of a new senior position at the company overseeing quality control, as part of a broader push to ensure that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. The move comes in the wake of a shocking incident last month, in which an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 blew out a door plug while nearly 16,000 feet above Oregon. A preliminary investigation found the door panel was missing four bolts. Workers at Boeings Renton facility had removed them during repair work and never put them back. Clark took over the division in 2021 after a series of incidents including two fatal crashes forced the worldwide grounding of 737 Max 8 jets in 2019 and 2020. After the FAA cleared the Max 8 to fly again, Boeing CEO David Calhoun pledged to recommit the company to the core values of safety, quality and integrity. Related... The superintendent calls it a pioneering proposal. Tuesday night, the Muscogee County School District board unanimously approved it. MCSD now is authorized to work with the Atlanta-based Rollins Center for Language and Literacy, the Georgia Department of Education and community partners to develop and implement what the administration describes in the agenda as an innovative, scientific, evidence-based literacy and numeracy acceleration center. The purpose is to help struggling students in kindergarten through second grade close their learning gaps and improve their academic achievement. The centers students will come from four of MCSDs lowest-ranked elementary schools on the state standardized tests: Brewer, Davis, Dorothy Height and Martin Luther King Jr., and it will be located at Brewer. Those schools also were chosen because of their proximity, MCSD superintendent David Lewis told the board during last weeks work session. The longest distance between them in south Columbus is 3 miles. According to the plan, a disproportionately large number of children at these schools are academically below grade level in reading and math. This situation leads to predictable frustration and low educational attainment through their school years, then reduced opportunities and limited upward mobility as adults. Eligible students MCSD will use results from the states standardized tests in the Georgia Milestones Assessment System and other data to identify students eligible for this program. In time for the start of next year school year in August, Brewer will be repurposed from an elementary school into the K-2 center. That means students who have been attending Brewer but arent selected for the center will be rezoned and assigned to another school. MCSD will provide bus transportation for selected and rezoned students if needed. Staff for the center will be chosen based on their college degrees, certification, experience and passion for and commitment to the mission and additional professional learning, the presentation says. The centers instructional and administrative staff will receive $3,000 added to their salary as compensation for the increased expectations, plus extra hourly pay for after-hours training, tutoring and conferencing. To advise the center, MCSD will establish a committee comprising outside experts, staff, parents and other community representatives. Project timeline The presentation includes the following project timeline: Feb. 21-29: Present the plan to the four school communities involved. February-March: Advertise the centers job openings, interview candidates and finalize staffing. April 22-May 31: Train the selected staff on high-yield literacy and numeracy strategies. Identify qualifying students and conduct meetings with parents. June-July: Finalize bus transportation for selected and rezoned students, then notify parents. Why this plan now? During the boards Feb. 12 work session, Lewis acknowledged the projects short timeline, but Im not willing to lose 450 more students and leave them behind. Thats why, Lewis said, Weve got to take bold action. We cannot have incremental improvement. Muscogee County School District Board chairwoman Pat Hugley Green and MCSD superintendent David Lewis participate in the Feb. 20, 2024, meeting at the Muscogee County Public Education Center. This plan stems from Lewis adamant intention to help all MCSD students. Since the board hired Lewis 11 years ago, MCSD is at all-time highs or exceeds the cohort, state or national averages in the major metrics. For example, MCSDs graduation rate has improved from 72.8% in 2013 to 93.5% in 2023, the 11th consecutive year outperforming the state average and the ninth outperforming the national average. But for the third straight year, Muscogee County surpassed the state average on only one of the 27 Georgia Milestones tests for grades 3-12 during the 2022-23 school year: eighth-graders who took high school physics. Every child, regardless of income, family structure or racial and ethnic background is capable of learning when taught and supported effectively, Lewis said, and that begins first with learning to read in order to read to learn. Lewis asserted, If predictable variability is a problem, then differentiation of resources and support is a solution. This is a relatively new way of thinking about equity. Equity does not mean equal resources; it means equal opportunity. We have a moral, ethical and economic imperative to provide a meaningful and systemic early intervention to address the needs of these children caught in this cycle. Lewis summarized the centers goal when he said, In essence, we want to equip children all children to address that gap. Close the gap and raise the bar at the same time hard work, heavy lift, not easy to do. Too often, grants and other short-term support targeted toward such students produces temporary progress, but regression sets in when the funding runs out, Lewis said. We have to have a sustained model to work with these children, he said. If we do this right and I believe we will we can set the standard for success that can be replicated across our district, the state and any place else that suffers from the same cycle that our children do in these particular schools. Monday night, Lewis thanked the board for unanimously supporting the plan on behalf of all the children wholl be served and afforded the opportunity to determine their own destiny and their own future. Estimated cost Responding to the Ledger-Enquirers questions, Lewis said the estimated start-up cost for the program is $1.2 million to hire more personnel for a student-teacher ratio at the center that will be lower than regular schools. In addition to the reallocation of current resources, the cost will be defrayed by $600,000 by leveraging available state funding, an additional $200,000 from federal entitlement funds, and other financial investments by United Way and the Georgia Department of Education, Lewis said via email. The estimated annual cost to continue the program will vary, he said, depending on the number of qualifying students. The centers enrollment also will vary, he said, depending on the number of qualifying students. Lewis didnt provide a range for either of those figures, but he did say Brewer will have an additional 11 teachers, a literacy coach, a math coach, a speech and language pathologist, a social worker and an interventionist on the staff. A video of a daring operation to eliminate an enemy position hidden in the garage of a dacha cooperative in Avdiivka was posted on Telegram by the Third Separate Assault Brigade on Feb. 21. The soldiers approached the Russian position from the rear and strategically placed explosives under the thin walls of the building, literally behind the enemy's back. Read also: Ukrainian officer on withdrawal from Avdiivka interview Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported on Feb. 17 that the Ukrainian army had withdrawn from Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, after four months of intense fighting and regular attacks by the Russian troops. This decision was made to avoid encirclement and to save the lives and health of the soldiers. Dmytro Lykhoviy, head of the public relations department of the Tavria grouping, said that the withdrawal of troops from Avdiivka was as successful as the circumstances allowed. The DeepState analytical portal reported that the Russian military shot six captured Ukrainian soldiers at the Museum position (formerly Zenit military unit) in Avdiivka, who remained there after the Ukrainian army retreated from the town. Four of them were wounded and unable to walk.. Read also: Russian air superiority aids offensive in Avdiivka; more aggressive frontline advances expected ISW The Russians posted a video on social media showing the shot bodies lying on the premises of Garage No. 1. Analysts complain that a series of mistakes and delays in taking decisive action led to this tragedy. Investigative outlet Slidstvo.info reported that the mother, wife, and sister of three Ukrainian soldiers out of six who were captured at the Zenit position identified their bodies in the video. Journalist Yuriy Butusov published a list of the names of the soldiers who remained at Zenit. During the final stages of the battle for Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers might have been captured by Russian forces, The New York Times reported on Feb. 20, citing senior Western officials and Ukrainian military. Two unnamed Ukrainian soldiers told the newspaper that an estimated 850 to 1,000 Ukrainian troops might have been taken prisoner or are considered missing in action during the recent withdrawal from Avdiivka. Western officials stated that these numbers "seem accurate." 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 A United Airlines flight traveling to Los Angeles was diverted to Chicago after a bomb threat was reported on the plane Wednesday morning. The United Flight 1533 had 202 passengers and nine crew members and took off from Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. It was diverted to OHare International Airport in Chicago after a note was found in the bathroom that the plane would blow up, CBS News reported. A bomb-sniffing K-9 found a suspicious bag, and a robot was deployed to move it away. Police are questioning the person who checked the bag, the outlet reported. United said it was diverted due to a potential security concern, but an airline source told CBS that the dog connected a scent from the note to the bag. The flight landed safely and met local law enforcement upon arrival. Customers deplaned and we expect the flight to depart for Los Angeles this afternoon, United said in an emailed statement. A passenger told CBS News that he boarded a bus with police after they were evacuated from the plane at a remote location of the airport. He said that police were taking us back to a terminal I guess they will go through bags, maybe question us. He said the passengers were forced to leave all of their belongings on the plane and have no idea what is happening next. Another passenger told CBS that the flight was rescheduled for Chicago time. The outlet reported that the FBI was investigating. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that the flight landed safely at 7:40 a.m. local time after a crew member reported the security issue. The FBIs Chicago field office said its agents responded to an incident with an aircraft at OHare Airport early Wednesday morning. There is no indication that there is an imminent threat to public safety or the facility itself at this time, it said, adding there was no further information available to release at the time. Updated: 1:53 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. KANSAS CITY, Mo. A Jackson County judge reduced the bond for a Kansas City mom accused of putting her baby in the oven, killing the 1-month-old child. Mariah Thomas appeared in court Tuesday for the second time since her arrest earlier this month. Shes charged with endangering the welfare of a child, resulting in death. Two more suspects charged in Chiefs parade shooting On Tuesday, a judge approved lowering her cash bond from $200,000 to $100,000. As of Tuesday evening, jail records show shes still in custody at the Jackson County Detention Center. Police were called to a home near E. 41st Street and Forest Avenue earlier this month for a suspicious death. Charging documents say when the police initially arrived at the scene, they noticed the baby was badly burned. Police were told the mother was putting her child down for a nap, and accidentally placed the child in the oven instead of the crib. On Wednesday, police identified the child as Zariah Thomas. A KCPD spokesperson said the 1-month-olds death will be included in the citys 2024 homicide total. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android If she meets her bond and is released, Thomas will be under house arrest with a GPS tracker. Other conditions of her bond include no contact with children, complying with medication and completing a mental evaluation. Thomas is scheduled to return to court on March 4. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo of the 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy leaves a military port in Zhanjiang, south China's Guangdong Province, Feb. 21, 2024. The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Wednesday set sail from a military port in the coastal city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province to take over an escort mission from the 45th naval fleet in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. (Photo by Yang Jie/Xinhua) GUANGZHOU, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy on Wednesday set sail from a military port in the coastal city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province to take over an escort mission from the 45th naval fleet in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. The 46th fleet includes the guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo, the missile frigate Xuchang, and the comprehensive replenishment vessel Honghu. It has over 700 officers and soldiers, including dozens of special forces personnel, and two helicopters onboard. In preparation for the mission, the fleet conducted meticulous analysis and made detailed plans. It also carried out targeted training for scenarios such as the rescue of hijacked commercial ships, the combating of terrorists and pirates, and the underway replenishment. The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy sets sail from a military port in Zhanjiang, south China's Guangdong Province, Feb. 21, 2024. The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Wednesday set sail from a military port in the coastal city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province to take over an escort mission from the 45th naval fleet in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. (Photo by Yang Jie/Xinhua) The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy sets sail from a military port in Zhanjiang, south China's Guangdong Province, Feb. 21, 2024. The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Wednesday set sail from a military port in the coastal city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province to take over an escort mission from the 45th naval fleet in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. (Photo by Yang Jie/Xinhua) The news that the most recent test firing of Britains Trident nuclear deterrent failed is cause for grave concern, particularly given that the last test conducted in 2016 also resulted in failure. The threat of a nuclear exchange with Russia has never been higher, even at the very height of the Cold War. Only on Sunday, Putins deranged attack dog and former Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Medvedev threatened to flatten London with nuclear retaliation if Moscow was forced to withdraw its forces to its 1991 borders. Given their crucial role in deterring Putin, any question hanging over the reliability of the Trident system is deeply disturbing. Their effectiveness in restraining Russian aggression relies on the perception that they will work, and will inflict a terrible cost on the country if it dares to enter a direct conflict with the West. If the Kremlin comes to believe that Trident is ineffective, it may become significantly more aggressive. The Vanguard class submarines carrying Britains continuous at sea nuclear deterrent carry 8 Trident missiles each, alongside up to 40 thermonuclear warheads. These are thought to yield around 100 kilotons five times more powerful than the bomb dropped on Nagasaki. With each missile able to deliver multiple warheads, just one would be ample to flatten the Kremlin and everything around it. We can be confident that not every missile launched would fail. Conducting tests with inert weapons can be challenging; the expense to make a dummy weapon act like the real thing can be prohibitive and the technical elements challenging, resulting in anomalies. Reassuringly, the US successfully tested this missile in October last year. But still, we must remember that with the Russian hordes steaming across Eastern Europe and the US looking to distance itself from Ukraine, it is the British and French nuclear weapons which will stall them at Natos borders. After all, it is highly likely that Russia would not have invaded Ukraine had it retained access to nuclear weapons. The greatest risk, however, is less that Russia will immediately attack the West, but that it will use our fading deterrent to deliver victory in Ukraine. Putin will ruthlessly exploit any weakness he sees, and if he thinks for even a moment that the UK was either unwilling or incapable of deploying its nuclear weapons, he may well escalate to the use of tactical weapons to drive back the Ukrainian armed forces. This, in part, is why information about failures of critical deterrent systems should not be in the public domain. Revelations about nuclear capabilities can be destabilising, dangerous, and strategically disastrous, and the Ministry of Defence and the Cabinet Office must tighten the bolts to ensure they cease. The media must also do its part. It is one thing holding politicians to account and quite another to affect the security of the country. It is also disappointing that people put up by the Government to speak on its behalf have little understanding of this complex issue, causing confusion rather than clarity. This goes to the nub of the issue of whether our politicians from across all parties are giving the full credence to defence that they should. It is the first duty of Parliament to protect this Nation, and I see no party in the run up to the general election leading on defence. This must be a wake up call. Now is not the time to take any risks with our defence capabilities. On the contrary, we need to reinvest, reequip and rearm in order to provide a credible deterrent. If we cant defend our country with nuclear and conventional weapons, then everything else vexing us could become horrifically irrelevant in a heartbeat. If Putin decides that Trident is a dud, and we do not ensure Ukraine prevails, we may find ourselves attempting to fend off a Russian invasion of the Baltics with the few tanks we still have. Our politicians must make it clear across all parties that Britain will invest in its defence, will remain a credible actor, and will stand against Russia to the last. Anything else risks utter catastrophe. 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 IK-3 penal colony in Kharp in the Yamal-Nenets region of Russia, where Alexei Navalny died - Maxim Shemetov/Reuters Britain has announced sanctions against the prison guards at the Arctic penal colony where Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, died. The UK sanctions, announced on Wednesday, come ahead of a US package of measures to be revealed on Friday. They bar six men from visiting the UK and freeze any of their assets held in Britain. Its clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him, said Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion we will hold them accountable. Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who oversaw the IK-3 Polar Wolf prison colony where Mr Navalny, who was 47, was kept in solitary confinement for weeks at a time, is among those sanctioned. Mr Navalnys mother travelled to the remote prison on Saturday, but has not been allowed to see his body. On Wednesday Lyudmila Navalnaya filed a lawsuit demanding that the body be released amid suspicions that her son was poisoned. The UK Government has called for a transparent investigation into Mr Navalnys death and for his body to be released to his family. Raindrops cover a memorial portrait of Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, placed in front of the Russian embassy in Berlin, on Wednesday - Markus Schreiber/AP Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, told the Commons at Prime Ministers Questions: The whole House will join me in sending our deepest condolences to the family of Alexei Navalny. He died for a cause to which he dedicated his whole life, freedom. Together with our allies, we are considering all options to hold Russia and Putin to account, and this morning we sanctioned those running the prison where Alexei Navalnys body still lies. Mr Sunak paid tribute to Mr Navalny, 47, who flew to Germany in 2020 for life-saving treatment after being poisoned by a Soviet-era nerve agent, but returned to Russia in 2021 to continue his fight against Vladimir Putin and was arrested. To return home knowing that Putin had already tried to have him killed was one of the most courageous acts of our time, said Mr Sunak. Last year, Mr Navalny was transferred to the special regime penal colony north of the Arctic Circle after being sentenced to 19 years on top of the almost 12 years he was already serving. At the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Rio on Wednesday and Thursday, Lord Cameron is expected to challenge Sergey Lavrov, his Russian counterpart, over Mr Navalnys death. The two will not meet, but the former prime minister is expected to use media appearances to attack the close Putin ally. At least 400 people mourning Mr Navalny have been detained in Russia since his death. On Wednesday, reports emerged of men paying tribute to the opposition leader being forced to report to the military. Speaking at Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, told MPs that Putin had stolen the future and democracy of the Russian people. Labour had called on Mr Sunak to consider sanctions against almost 8,000 people named on Mr Navalnys list of Putins cronies. The original list named 35 individuals linked to his poisoning and imprisonment but has been expanded to include 7,945 people, including those accused of being oligarchs, human rights abusers and involved in corruption. Only about 1,162 people identified by Mr Navalnys Anti-Corruption Foundation have been sanctioned by Britain, the organisation said. Only Canada sanctioned all 35 people on the original list. The UK and Australia sanctioned 29 each, the EU took action against 26 and the US 24. There was criticism that the asset freezes and travel bans did not go far enough to hurt Putins henchmen. Mark Farmaner, the director at Burma Campaign UK, said Britain had imposed similarly weak sanctions on members of the Myanmar military. There are probably no assets to freeze, he wrote on social media. The default UK response to human rights violations is basically a ban on taking holidays in the UK. The EU approved a 13th package of sanctions against Russia on Wednesday. They target nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children. Germany has demanded that Russia explains Mr Navalnys death. His widow, Yulia, gave an emotional speech to the Munich Security Conference last weekend, in which she vowed to continue her husbands work. 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. British divers retrieved an 80-pound brass bell from the only American destroyer sunk in World War I more than 100 years after the ship was torpedoed Divers retrieved a brass bell from the sunken USS Jacob Jones, a WW1-era American destroyer. The bell was recovered due to concerns about the plundering of military wreck sites. The bell will be sent to the Washington Navy Yard and held at the command's underwater archeology lab. More than a century after a German U-boat torpedoed the USS Jacob Jones off the coast of Britain during World War I, a team of divers retrieved the American destroyer's massive brass bell. On December 6, 1917 eight months after the US joined the fight the Jacob Jones was attacked by a submarine off the southwest coast of Britain. It only took eight minutes for the large ship to sink entirely, according to the US Naval Institute, killing 64 sailors in the process. The ship would languish nearly 400 feet beneath the water's surface for more than 100 years before private divers discovered the wreck site in 2022. The Naval History and Heritage Command in Washington, DC, spearheaded a diving mission to retrieve the Jacob Jones' giant brass bell from the depths earlier this year. A British government diving team was able to successfully raise the 80-pound bell and survey the wreck site in January, according to the Navy. Researchers used an underwater robot belonging to the British Defense Ministry's Salvage and Marine Operations to raise the bell, which still has the imprints of "Jacob Jones" and "1915" clearly visible in its brass, The Washington Post reported. "We flipped it upright so we could read the name and confirm the identity," Dom Robinson, one of the divers, told the newspaper. The salvage team placed a wreath and an American flag on the wreck site after retrieving the bell, according to The US Naval Institute. Archaeologists have recovered a bell of the USS Jacob Jones (DD-61), a 2022-discovered American destroyer built in New York in 1916 that sank off the Isles of Scilly in 1917, when it was hit by a torpedo en route to Queenstown, Ireland during World War I.https://t.co/9qzRwhGnG4 pic.twitter.com/95NcKGDd22 Archaeology Magazine (@archaeologymag) February 20, 2024 Military shipwrecks, which are the final resting place for sailors killed in action, typically aren't disturbed by salvaging missions. But the effort to retrieve the Jacob Jones' bell was pursued because of plundering concerns, retired Rear Adm. Sam Cox said in a statement about the mission. Most wreck sites from both World War I and World War II have been stripped of their valuable items; anything brass or bronze is gone, Cox told The Post. "We didn't want to take the chance of someone running off with the bell," he told the outlet. The bell, which is currently in England, is set to be returned to the Washington Navy Yard in the coming months where it will head to the command's underwater archeology lab, according to The Post. The Jacob Jones was the first and only US destroyer lost in the war, according to the US Naval Institute. The ship was tasked with escorting convoys and rescuing survivors whose ships had been torpedoed during the war. Read the original article on Business Insider Earlier this month, Buckingham Palace shared that King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer, news that placed the royal line of succession in the spotlight once more. Less than a year and a half earlier, Charles succeeded his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on the throne after her death on September 8, 2022. The monumental event shook up the line of succession in a major way for the first time since the births of Prince Williams and Prince Harrys children. Here are the rules behind who ascends to the British throne and a look at whos who in the line of succession, plus who can take over as regent if Charles becomes unable to handle his duties. Rules for Succession Historically, male children in the British royal family, even if they were younger than their sisters, took precedence when it came to inheriting the throne from a parent. This changed with the Succession to the Crown Act of 2013 that states gender doesnt matter for royals born after October 28, 2011. Birth order now determines which child is next in line for the crown. Royal parentage alone isnt enough to join the line of succession; a couple must have been married when their child was born. So if Charles and now-Queen Camillas love affair during the 1980s and 90s had resulted in a son or daughter, he or she would have no claim to the throne, even though Charles and Camilla wed in 2005. Being a descendant of King George Is mother, Princess Sophia, who was Electress of Hanover and a granddaughter of King James I, is another requirement to ascend to the British throne. A child adopted into the royal family wouldnt join the line of succession, though this hasnt been put to the test by any royal adoptions. In addition, the British monarch, who also serves as the supreme governor of the Church of England, cant be a Roman Catholic. That said, because the United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy, these rules could be changed via legislation. In the end, Parliament determines who can be king or queen. Whos Who in the Royal Line of Succession 1. Prince William Born in 1982 to King Charles and Princess Diana As Charles oldest child, William has been an heir-in-waiting since birth. Queen Elizabeth II helped him prepare for his future role during weekly Sunday lunches the two shared while William, now the Prince of Wales, was a student at Eton. Read More about Prince William Getty Images Born in 2013 to Prince William and Princess Kate William was second in line to the throne when he and Kate Middleton welcomed their first child. Like his father, George was born with the expectation that he, too, would one day be king. But his parents decided to wait until George was about 7 before telling him what his future had in store. George has since taken on some royal duties, including being a page of honor at his grandfather King Charles IIIs coronation in 2023. Read More about Prince George Getty Images 3. Princess Charlotte Born in 2015 to Prince William and Princess Kate The Succession to the Crown Act of 2013 altered Charlottes place in the line of succession. Prior to that legislation, her younger brother would have gone ahead of her upon his 2018 birth. Read More about Princess Charlotte Getty Images 4. Prince Louis Born in 2018 to Prince William and Princess Kate As the youngest of William and Kates children, Louis will move down the line of succession if his older brother and sister get married and have children. But it might be a good thing that his future will contain fewer royal ceremonies. He yawned during his grandfathers coronation and was overwhelmed by the volume of planes flying over Buckingham Palace during the 2022 celebration of his great-grandmothers 70 years on the throne. Read More about Prince Louis Getty Images 5. Prince Harry Born in 1984 to King Charles and Princess Diana Following years of tabloid scrutiny, Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, announced they would step back from royal duties in January 2020. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex soon agreed to no longer be working royals who participate in official engagements and now live in California. But leaving royal life didnt change the circumstances of Harrys birth, so he still has a spot in the line of succession. Read More about Prince Harry Getty Images Born in 1960 to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip If the line of succession reaches the end of one branch of the family tree, it goes back to last place the tree branched off. So if something happened to all of Charles children and grandchildren, his younger brother Andrew is next in line. When Andrew was born the existing rules of succession placed him ahead of his older sister, Princess Anne. Although he remains in the line of succession, Andrew left his royal duties in 2019 after a television interview in which he discussed his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew lost his military titles and royal patronages in January 2022, shortly before settling a civil case for sexual assault. Read More about Prince Andrew Getty Images 9. Princess Beatrice Born in 1988 to Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson Beatrice has no brothers, so as Prince Andrews older daughter she directly follows her father in the line of succession. Beatrice grew up with the title of princessher grandmother Queen Elizabeth II was reigning when she was bornbut instead of taking on royal duties and representing the queen as other royals have done, shes far enough down in the line of succession that she has had a day job, including at a tech company. Read More about Princess Beatrice Getty Images What Happens If King Charles Is Incapacitated? Among a British king or queens duties as head of state are presiding over the opening of Parliament, giving royal assent to legislation, and officially appointing government ministers, including the Prime Minister. The British sovereign is expected to serve for life, so even with his cancer diagnosis, King Charles is unlikely to abdicate, especially because he and his family remember the calamitous abdication of Edward VIII to marry divorcee Wallis Simpson in 1936. Charles has limited his public appearances as he undergoes treatment but otherwise is still working. He continues to meet with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. If the kings health worsens to the point that hes unable to fulfill his duties, the Regency Act of 1937 outlines what to do next. If the monarch is only temporarily indisposed or out of the country, two or more Counsellors of State can be appointed to step into the breach. This happened multiple times during Queen Elizabeths reign. The current Counsellors of State include the sovereigns spouse, Queen Camilla, and the first four adults over the age of 21 in the line of succession: Princes William, Harry, and Andrew, along with Princess Beatrice. However, Harry lives in California, Andrew has been sidelined from royal duties, and Beatrice has never been a working royal. Therefore, in 2022, Parliament amended the Regency Act so Charles other two siblings, Princess Anne and Prince Edward, could be Counsellors of State. Counsellors of State cant carry out all of the sovereigns dutiesone thing they cant do is appoint a prime ministerso the Regency Act also has provisions for what happens if the king or queen becomes incapable for the time being of performing the royal functions. In this situation, a regency is formed, and a regent takes over for the monarch within the United Kingdom. The only limitations on a regents power is that they cannot approve a bill to alter the line of succession, nor interfere with a law protecting the Church of Scotland within the United Kingdom. Countries that have the British sovereign as head of state would need to pass separate legislation to recognize the regent. To institute a regency, Camilla and four government officialsthe lord chancellor, the lord chief justice, the master of the rolls, and the House of Commons speakerwould need to sign a declaration of incapacity that at least three of them agree on. The declaration must be based on medical evidence. (This same group can similarly decide to end a regency.) After the declaration is made to the Privy Council, a government body that includes government ministers and opposition leaders, the regent can be sworn in. Getty Images Who Would Become Regent? An eligible regent is the next person in the line of succession who is 18 or older. This means that Prince William would become his fathers regent. If William were to become unable to serve as regent, his son Prince George couldnt take his place because hes currently too young. In that case, Prince Harry could step in, but he would need to leave his life in California and return to the United Kingdom to take the job. Getty Images You Might Also Like Nicholas Jordan's brother reportedly had a message to police: "Keep looking because you got the wrong guy." Jordan, a 25-year-old Detroit native and a student at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, allegedly shot and killed his former roommate, Samuel Knopp, 24, and Celie Montgomery, 26, in Knopp's dorm room on Friday. Since then, he was arrested and appeared in court after being booked on two counts of first-degree murder, but Jordan's brother, Brandon, came to his defense. He told Fox 2 Detroit that Nick was in school for accounting and always had good grades. "I love you bro. I love you dude. I know you didnt do it bro," he said. COLORADO UNIVERSITY DORM MURDER SUSPECT STILL POSES A THREAT, PROSECUTION WARNS JUDGE Nicholas Jordan, who was accused of killing two people in a shooting in a university dorm, stands next to his lawyer during a court appearance on Feb. 20, 2024. Brandon and Nicholas lost their younger brother, Christian, to an unsolved murder in Detroit more than a year ago, according to the local news outlet. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The loss appeared to have hit Nicholas hard, as his social media included several RIP posts in honor of his late brother. DISPATCH AUDIO FROM DEADLY COLORADO DORM SHOOTING REVEALS RESPONDERS NOT SURE IF GUNMAN WAS STILL AT LARGE Brandon described the thought of Nicholas killing two people as unbelievable, according to Fox 2 Detroit. "It's not real. It ain't real," he said. But prosecutors painted a different picture during Tuesday afternoon's court appearance, when the judge sided with the prosecution's arguments and raised Nicholas' bail from $1 million to $5 million in cash. Nicholas Jordan is accused of killing his former college roommate. "He (Nicholas Jordan) still poses a threat to witnesses and some of the other folks at UCCS campus, as well as the public in general," the prosecution told the judge during Tuesday's court appearance in El Paso County, Colorado. The prosecutor went on to say arresting officers allegedly found a gun in his car and said, "There were indications he tried to flee the state." WHO IS NICHOLAS JORDAN? SUSPECTED COLORADO DORM KILLER KNEW VICTIMS: POLICE Other than the little bit of information law enforcement and the district attorney's office said in statements on social media and in court, not much is known about Feb. 16's fatal altercation. The court sealed records, including the arrest warrant and probable cause affidavit, without an explanation. Fox News Digital requested the records after Nicholas' arrest, but was denied because of the court-ordered seal. That will be addressed during the next court appearance, which is scheduled for Friday morning. Sam Knopp was a "beloved" 24-year-old senior and musician at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs when he was fatally shot on Feb. 16, 2024. The defense told the judge they're at a disadvantage right off the bat without being able to see the documents. On top of that, Colorado is in the midst of a crisis, where there aren't enough defense lawyers and public defenders in the state, which warranted the attention of the federal government. COLORADO DORM MURDERS SUSPECT WAS STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL SAYS Elisa Overall, executive direction of the Colorado Access to Justice Commission, said 45% of the state's counties have 10 or less attorneys, according to an October report by cpr.org. "That's certainly considered a legal desert," Overall said. "Legal desert" is defined by the American Bar Association as a county with fewer than one lawyer per 1,000 people, according to Legal Evoluation, an online publication focused on the legal industry. Celie Montgomery, 26, was fatally shot in a shooting at Colorado University at Colorado Springs on Feb. 16, 2024. Nicholas' public defender, Nick Rodgers, briefly alluded to this issue in court Tuesday, as he scrambled to defend his client in a highly publicized case. He said he filed five motions in court Tuesday, but didn't elaborate further. The suspected killer was returned to El Paso County Jail on an increased cash bond after the court appearance. He didn't enter a plea yet. LISTEN TO AUDIO DISPATCH AFTER SHOTS FIRED Gunshots rang out around 6 a.m. local time on Friday in an upperclassman dorm called the Alpine Village Apartments in Colorado Springs. Responding officers found Knopp and Montgomery dead inside the dorm room, which triggered an hours-long campus lockdown, as law enforcement searched for a potential active shooter. Dispatch audio obtained by Fox News Digital revealed first responders were unsure how stable the scene was, or if a gunman was still roaming around campus. The investigation linked Nicholas to the crime, and police secured a warrant for his arrest by Friday night. Detectives searched for him over the weekend, but his name wasn't publicly released until Monday evening. He remained on the loose for most of the day Monday, and police remained tight-lipped about the shooting but reiterated it was an "isolated event." Shortly before 8 a.m. Monday, Colorado Springs Police Departments Motor Vehicle Theft Unit spotted Jordan, police said on X (formerly Twitter), and a tactical team arrested him about 30 minutes later. Original article source: Brother of Colorado dorm murders suspect breaks silence: 'Ain't real' SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) A federal lawsuit was recently filed against Brown County, the City of Brownwood, Hendrick Medical Center, a Brownwood police officer and a county jail official after a Brownwood satirical publisher lost his life when he was removed from his home for an Emergency Detention Order. A petition filed within the court system shared that 39-year-old Trenton Ray, a publisher for The Brownwood Roman Times, was engulfed in panic and depression on May 8, 2023, due to Mothers Day approaching and losing his mom one year prior. Ray, who had bipolar disorder and autism, soon began to rapidly cycle between anger, calm, despair, acceptance, rational and irrational states and started using alcohol to self-medicate later that afternoon. After reaching an inebriated state, Ray became suicidal and reached out to care providers at the Center for Life Resources of Brownwood and his co-workers for help. CFLR responded by immediately deploying a caseworker to assist Ray and requested a Brownwood police officer to the residence for a welfare check. Runnels County crash claims 2 lives Saturday afternoon Upon arrival, the CFLR case worker found Officer Holdar, who was familiar with Ray, speaking with him on the front porch. The officer soon departed to let the case worker handle the situation. According to the petition, the caseworker determined that Ray needed immediate inpatient mental health care after watching him rapidly cycle between various states. Because Ray did not meet the criteria for the CFLR center and refused to go anywhere, the caseworkers filled out an application for an Emergency Detention Order and called for Officer Holdars return to the residence. Through an EDO, patients are placed on a court-issued protective custody warrant to involuntarily commit patients to a mental hospital the document reads. Shortly after, a Justice of the Peace drove to the residence to review and sign the application for the EDO. Ray was informed it was time to go to the hospital by the caseworker. However, he refused to go and tried to re-enter his home. Officer Holdar then placed Ray in handcuffs and transported him to Hendrick Medical Center in a squad car. Before departing from the residence, Ray shared with both men how he did not want to be hospitalized and began displaying panic about being involuntarily committed to the state mental hospital system. When the caseworker arrived at Hendrick Medical Center in Brownwood, as stated by records, Officer Holdar had Ray in handcuffs. Ray escalated into a psychiatric state. After a few minutes near the ER nurses station, Ray began to calm down. Instead of taking Ray to a secure, safe environment for holding mental patients, it was determined that Ray would check in at the ER admissions desk. Officer Holdar soon left the hospital after informing Ray that he would arrest him for public intoxication if he left the hospital, despite not making sure Ray was properly admitted into the hospital, the petition states. Within seconds of Officer Holdar leaving, Ray announced he would also be leaving and headed to what he thought was the exit. Shortly after, the security officer and caseworker informed Ray he was not allowed to be in that area of the hospital and walked him back to the ER admission room. Records report that the two men, along with other hospital staff, watched as Ray left the hospital and failed to contact Officer Holdar or call for orderlies. Person of interest in Audrii Cunningham case has lengthy criminal history Both the security officer and caseworker tailed Ray in a truck that night while calling the Brownwood police dispatch to recapture and jail Ray. Within 15 minutes of leaving the hospital, Officer Holdar recaptured Ray alongside another officer, as shown in body camera footage. Officers were able to handcuff Ray without resistance or a chase. After pleading with officers to take him back to the hospital, Officer Holdar told Ray that he had his chance and was now going to jail. However, the documents stated that since the EDO was still in effect, officers were to take Ray back to Hendrick Medical Center in Brownwood. Ray began yelling at the police officers as they walked him toward the squad car. He became uncooperative, causing the two officers to propel him toward the vehicle. Another officer joined in, along with the security officer from the hospital, to grab Ray. In Officer Holdars report, he states that he pulled Rays arms upwards on his back. What the report does not state is that he did so with such force that it broke both of Trentons arms at the shoulder, the petition reads. Due to the severe pain, Ray began screaming he was injured and in pain, but the team forced him to the ground into a total body restraint that made the injuries and pain worse. Once they arrived at the Brown County Jail around 9:30 p.m., jail footage showed jail official Ty Harrell meeting with Trenton and supervising his intake with two possible trainees. These employees were told that Ray had been placed under arrest due to public intoxication and resisting arrest. However, they failed to ask why he was not taken back to the hospital despite Rays oddly dangling arms and his screams in pain. Harrell ordered employees to complete a mental health intake questionnaire and disrobe Ray for a shower. Because Ray could not use or lift his arms, Harrell and two jailers had to pull off Rays clothes and get soap from the soap dispenser on the wall. Ray was then placed into a padded cell with no toilet and put on a suicide watch, according to records. While in the cell, Ray did not receive any water and became severely dehydrated despite begging for water. The petition states This severely damaged his kidneys and worsened his shoulder injuries. It was not until 22 hours later that Ray received a pulse check and aspirin, even though multiple employees saw his injuries and observed him moaning and begging for help and water approximately every 15 minutes in the cell. Armed student prompts officer-involved shooting at Dallas area charter school At around 11:05 a.m., a chief told a morning shift officer, I think we need to send him to the ER. The petition reports that Ray was transported back to Hendrick Medical Center at 11:30 a.m. that morning. Ray was placed in the intensive care unit at Hendrick Brownwood and Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, where he underwent multiple surgeries on his arms over three months. Furthermore, the trauma and shock of his untreated injuries caused his kidney to fail, resulting in him being placed on dialysis. After five months, Ray was able to return home. The charges of public intoxication and resisting arrest were dropped. However, Rays kidney failure caused other organs to also fail. When the petition was filed, Ray was fighting for his life at Hendrick Abilene. Ray lost his life on Feb. 13, 2024. We stand with the family of Trenton Ray and the entire community of Brownwood, Texas, to demand truth and transparency from all defendants in this case: the police, the jail and the hospital. The City of Brownwood is mourning the loss of a beloved friend and neighbor, and its time for city leaders to demand a full investigation into the tragedy that occurred here, said civil rights Attorney Kevin Green. What happened to Mr. Ray wasnt just misconduct on the part of a few employees, it was the entirely predictable and preventable result of a failure to plan, train and supervise. Concho Valley Homepage staff reached out the the Brownwood Police Department but had not received a response at the time of this publication. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. [Source] BTS has surpassed the 38 billion stream mark on Spotify, reportedly marking a first for any group or Asian act. Making history: BTS crossed 38 billion total streams on Spotify this week, as per music data website Kworb. Tracks with the highest streams include Dynamite (1.8 billion), Butter (1.22 billion), My Universe (1.2 billion) and Boy With Luv (1.13 billion). BTS is reportedly the first group, first Asian act and only K-pop act to achieve the milestone, according to PinkVilla. The latest achievement happened nearly a year after the K-pop septet, which consists of J-Hope, Jimin, Jin, Jungkook, RM, Suga and V, broke their own record by achieving over 31.9 billion streams on March 3, 2023, almost doubling their April 2021 record of 16.3 billion. What ARMYs are saying: BTS fans, affectionately referred to as ARMYs, celebrated the group's achievement on social media, noting that they are the first-ever K-pop act and Asian artist to hit the streaming mark. Trending on NextShark: 240-million-year-old 'Chinese dragon' fossil discovered in southern China Blackpink, the most-streamed female group on Spotify, has accumulated a total of 12.49 billion streams, as of Tuesday. Trending on NextShark: Sriracha lovers are now buying this bottle at Costco Catch up: All seven BTS members are currently fulfilling their mandatory military duties, with RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook being the last members to begin training on Dec. 11 and 12, 2023. South Korean law requires all able-bodied men to enlist in the military for 18 to 21 months before they turn 28. Jin, the oldest of the group and the first to enlist in December 2022, is the first member expected to return in June, followed by J-Hope in September and Suga in March 2025. The group's label, Hybe, said ARMYs can expect to see the group together around 2025, likely after RM, V, Jimin and Jungkooks return in June of that year. Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! Buckeye has announced the selection of a new police chief. Bob Sanders, who previously served as the city's deputy police chief since 2014, was selected as Buckeye's new police chief, the city announced on Tuesday. He will replace Larry Hall, who announced his retirement from the Buckeye Police Department after 10 years as police chief. Hall had been working for the Buckeye Police Department since 2004 and had worked in public safety for 33 years, also serving in the New York City Police Department and Mesa Police Department. Hall is currently working as the city's interim public safety director. Bob Sanders has been selected as Buckeye's new police chief. Sanders previously was in talks with the city of Surprise after applying for its police chief position. He previously served as deputy police chief in Peoria. Sanders has a master's degree in education leadership from Northern Arizona University and a bachelor's degree in administration of justice from Arizona State University. He is also a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Policing, the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and the California Police Chiefs Executive Leadership Institute Program. Sanders also serves as an assessor with The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. Sanders will officially begin on March 3 and be sworn in on March 5. The city is in the early stages of hiring a new deputy police chief, said Buckeye spokesperson Daniel Bronis. Reach the reporter at ahardle@gannett.com or by phone at 480-259-8545. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @AlexandraHardle. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Buckeye selects deputy police chief Bob Sanders as new police chief Russia "doesn't have the strength" to conquer the two eastern Ukrainian oblasts this year, Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov told the Wall Street Journal in an interview published on Feb. 21. After the loss of Avdiivka, a front-line city in Donetsk Oblast that has resisted Russian attacks since 2014, there are growing concerns that Russia is gaining the upper hand in the war. Russian forces are reportedly trying to push forward in five directions: Avdiivka, Marinka, Kreminna, and Bakhmut in the east, as well as Roboytne in the south. According to Budanov, Russia has around 510,000 military personnel in and around Ukraine and has been able to recruit 30,000 troops monthly. Budanov noted that despite recent successes, the Russian military also faces problems. With its professional army largely destroyed in the first year of the full-scale war, Moscow resorts to using waves of untrained conscripts, he said. Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us The Russian defense industry also cannot produce as many shells as their military uses up, and most of the tanks that Russia fields are older models, Budanov commented. "They (Russia) don't have the strength" to achieve the strategic goal of capturing Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts in their entirety this year, he noted. Both regions have been partially occupied by Russia since 2014. Moscow declared control over the entire Luhansk Oblast in July 2022 after capturing Lysychansk, but a subsequent counteroffensive re-established a Ukrainian presence in the western reaches of the region. An optimal scenario for Ukraine this year would be to go on the defensive and wear down Russian forces while building up its own strength, opening up a possibility for another counteroffensive in 2025, the Wall Street Journal writes. A key condition for this strategy would be continued U.S. assistance, which is far from certain as a foreign aid bill that includes $60 billion for Kyiv remains stuck in Congress. Read also: Ukrainian soldiers recall retreat from Avdiivka on foot, leaving their wounded behind Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. ALBANY, N.Y. Western New York Republican officials have picked West Seneca Supervisor Gary Dickson to be their nominee in an April 30 special election for an open congressional seat. Dickson will face off against Democratic state Sen. Tim Kennedy. The winner will finish off the term started by Democrat Brian Higgins, who left the 26th Congressional District seat earlier this month. The seats math is very favorable for Kennedy, but not so much that its a guaranteed lock in a special election with unpredictable turnout. District resident Kathy Hochul received 57 percent of the vote within its borders in her successful 2022 gubernatorial campaign. We certainly all recognize that this is a difficult seat, said Erie County GOP Chair Michael Kracker. Its the states bluest seat outside of New York City, he noted. But Dickson has proven that he can win in blue territory with a message of delivering for taxpayers, Kracker said. Dickson, a retired FBI agent, became the first Republican to be elected supervisor of the 46,000-resident town of West Seneca in half a century in 2019. He won a second term with nearly 60 percent of the vote last year. South Buffalos Kennedy has been a state senator since 2011. He began campaigning immediately after Higgins announced in November that hed soon be ending his 19-year career in Congress to become CEO of Buffalos Sheas Performing Arts Center. The Democratic field was initially poised to be a crowded one, but Kennedy quickly rallied support and serious contenders like Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz declined to run. The Erie County Democratic Party and the Niagara County Democratic Party unanimously endorsed my campaign, Kennedy said in an interview earlier this month. Im excited about the opportunity to go serve the people of Western New York. Kennedy has spent years as one of the top fundraisers in New York politics. He raised $745,000 in the first six weeks after he entered the race in November. Republicans arent expecting to compete dollar-to-dollar with Kennedys money machine, Kracker said. But, he said there will be singular media attention on this race in an atypical late April vote. That should help the GOP get our message out locally, Kracker said. Former Grand Island supervisor Nate McMurray, the Democratic nominee in a neighboring seat on two occasions in the past decade, has been exploring an independent bid for the special election as well as a Democratic primary challenge against Kennedy for the partys nod in November. GAZA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian presidency and the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) on Wednesday condemned the United States veto of a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. In a statement released by Palestine's official news agency WAFA, the Palestinian presidency expressed its "surprise at the continued refusal of the U.S. to stop the war" that Israel is waging against the Palestinian people. "The U.S. veto, which defies the will of the international community, will give an additional green light to Israel to continue its aggression against our people in the Gaza Strip, and to carry out its bloody attack on Rafah," the statement said, adding the U.S. showed its "support and protection" for Israel by vetoing the resolution. The Palestinian presidency called on the international community to search for solutions to stop the Israeli war in the occupied Palestinian territory, especially in the Gaza Strip. Hamas said in a statement that the U.S. administration bears responsibility for obstructing efforts to end Israeli "aggression" in Gaza. The U.S. gives "a green light for Israel to kill our defenseless people through bombing, starvation, and is a partner in the war," read the Hamas statement. During an emergency session of the UN Security Council held in New York on Tuesday, the U.S. vetoed a draft resolution put forward on behalf of Arab states by Algeria demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Algeria's draft resolution was backed by 13 out of the 15 Security Council members, while the United States vetoed against it and Britain abstained. It is the third time since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October of last year that the U.S. interfered to fail a draft resolution aimed to reach a ceasefire. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Buffalo police are investigating after a man was fatally shot Tuesday night on Clinton Street. Police responded to the scene of the 400 block of Clinton Street around 11:30 p.m. where authorities said a man had been struck multiple times by gunfire while outside. Authorities said the 41-year-old victim was declared deceased at the scene. Anyone with any information is asked to call or text the Confidential TIPCALL Line at 716-847-2255. Latest Local News Emily Miller is a digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2022. See more of her work here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. FILE - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet poses for photo, along with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, not in photo, in Hanoi, Vietnam Dec. 11, 2023. Prime Minister Hun Manet arrived Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, in Thailands capital on his first official visit since becoming his countrys leader last year, seeking to renew the close ties the two countries have maintained in recent times.(AP Photo/Hau Dinh, File) PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) Six months after becoming Cambodia's new prime minister, the eldest son of the country's long-serving autocratic leader on Wednesday won approval from lawmakers to have his youngest brother take the post of deputy premier. The development is the latest in a generational change in top positions in the Southeast Asian nation that tightens control of Cambodias government by a small circle of families associated with the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party. Last August, Hun Manet, 46, the son of longtime leader Hun Sen and Cambodias military chief, became the prime minister after having engaged in foreign diplomacy more and more over the past few years. His father stepped down after 38 years in power. Hun Manet had studied at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point before serving as deputy commander-in-chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and army chief. On Wednesday, the National Assembly overwhelmingly approved his 41-year-old brother Hun Many Hun Sen's third son as deputy prime minister. All but five members of the 125-seat chamber are from the ruling party, and the 120 lawmakers who were present at Wednesday's session voted unanimously in favor of Hun Many. Speaking to lawmakers, Hun Manet, said his brother's appointment was in line with his governments policy of promoting efficiency to help Cambodia reach its goal of becoming a high-income country by 2050. While serving as deputy prime minister, Hun Many will also retain his post as civil service minister and lawmaker. Middle brother Hun Manith, 42, is a three-star army general and chief of the Defense Ministrys intelligence department. Hun Manets Cabinet includes about three quarters of replacements for his fathers ministers, mostly children or relatives of those whose places they took over. Experts have cautioned against expecting broad changes Cambodia, where under Hun Sen human rights were long under attack and dissent was suppressed. There is not a big difference between the generations in political outlook, including in terms of how open or how competitive politics should be, Astrid Noren-Nilsson, a Cambodia expert at Swedens Lund University, said after Hun Manet took power last year. The generational handover was designed to keep the power of the political-cum-business elite intact, she added. This report has been corrected to show that Hun Manet attended West Point and had been army chief, not his father Hun Sen. Campobello Mayor Jason Shamis has announced he is running for the State House District 38 seat. Shamis is running against incumbent Rep. Josiah Magnuson in the Republican Primary on June 11. Shamis said Magnuson has "lost touch" with the desires of local leaders and constituents. "Serving as Campobello mayor is a high honor, but I believe our area needs a serious conservative voice in Columbia. My commitment is to show up, 'listen local,' and deliver results," Shamis said in a Feb. 12 press statement. Campobello Mayor Jason Shamis has announced his campaign for SC State House District 38. Shamis also said it is important to consistently meet with local leaders and constituents to learn what is important to the people you represent. "It's not enough to schedule random meetings and town halls in campaign season," he said "Our current representation has lost touch with the needs and concerns of the people who sent him to Columbia. Magnuson responded to the allegation in an email to the Herald-Journal Feb. 20. "I'm embarrassed that my opponent feels family values, government reform and transparency, and American freedom are not the priorities of District 38. I was elected on a platform of courageous conservatism and have done exactly what I said I would do. My record speaks for itself," Magnuson said, citing his work toward supporting SC Department of Transportation accountability, the Heartbeat Act, and lowering state income taxes. "My time in Columbia has not changed me. Rather, our conservative reform movement is changing Columbia. I will continue to courageously fight for our district and deliver results," he said. Prior to Shamis' election as mayor in 2021, he served as a Campobello town councilman. As mayor, Shamis has focused on expanding town services and improving infrastructure. Shamis is a real estate broker and owner of Quartermaster Properties, an Upstate real estate business, and is an Air Force veteran having retired in 2019 after 23 years of service. His campaign for State House is based on providing more town hall opportunities for constituents to make their voices heard, improving state infrastructure, increasing funding to police, firefighters and emergency responders, supporting anti-abortion legislation, lowering taxes, and increasing classroom funding and teacher pay. Samantha Swann covers city news, development and culture in Spartanburg. She is a University of South Carolina Upstate and Greenville Technical College alumna. Contact her at sswann@shj.com or on Instagram at @sam_on_spartanburg. This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Campobello Mayor Jason Shamis announces for SC State House District 38 Canada is ready to support Czechias initiative to deliver tens of thousands of artillery shells to Ukraine urgently. Source: CBC News with reference to sources in the Defence Ministry of Canada; European Pravda Details: Although details are still being finalised, sources say the Canadian government could allocate up to CAD$30 million (US$22 million) to implement the plan proposed at the opening of the Munich Security Conference by Czech President Petr Pavel. Pavel said that Czechia has found up to 800,000 shells of standard NATO calibre, which can be sent to Ukraine in a few weeks if it receives funding for delivery. Bill Blair, Canadian Defence Minister, said that Ottawa is in talks with the Czechs. Quote from Blair: "I've entered into the memorandum of understanding with one of our European allies, the Czech Republic, with respect to perhaps acquiring munitions that they currently have in their possession that will enable us to ... make them available more rapidly to Ukraine as we ramp up our production." Background: Support UP or become our patron! Residents of Cape Town woke up to a pungent, sewage-like smell engulfing their neighbourhoods on Monday morning. The source? A ship from Brazil carrying 19,000 cattle had anchored in the South African port city the night before, in order to reload on animal feed. After performing an assessment on board the Al Kuwait, staff from a leading animal welfare organisation, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), said the cattle had been on board for two-and-a-half weeks and were living in a "build-up of faeces and ammonia [a gas released from urine]". Conditions were "awful" and the stench was "unimaginable", the NSPCA said in its statement. The ship has now left for Iraq but there will still be a funk in the air, campaign groups say. The Al Kuwait is heading to Iraq with 19,000 head of cattle on board The cattle are just a fraction of the millions of farm animals that endure lengthy journeys in order to be slaughtered and eaten in another country. Animal rights organisations have long complained that conditions on board these ships can be hazardous. They say that, in some cases, creatures have been trampled to death because of overcrowding, while dehydration, disease and hunger are also risks. Defenders of exporting livestock argue that the practice brings food security to importing nations and also financially benefits farming communities in countries that export. A handful of casualties have made headlines in recent years, like when more than 40 crew members and almost 6,000 cattle died after a ship sank of the Japanese coast, or when earlier this month a vessel carrying 16,000 sheep and cattle became stranded off the coast of Australia in extreme heat. Although disasters like these are horrific, "the really bad thing is just the day-to-day suffering" of exported livestock, Peter Stevenson from global animal welfare group Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) told the BBC. The 19,000 cattle that docked in South Africa are part of a much larger herd of Brazilian exports - in 2022 the South American country sent 150,000 live cattle abroad, CIWF estimates. Last year, a Brazilian judge outlawed live cattle exports from the country, citing poor welfare practices, but the ban is yet to be imposed. Australia and the European Union (EU) are also major exporters of livestock, with the latter selling around 4.5 million live farm animals to foreign countries, according to the South African chapter of animal welfare charity Four Paws. In Africa, Somalia and Sudan export the most. Sudan's authorities said the country exported more than 2.7 million cattle in 2023, despite a raging civil war, according to local media. But why do countries want to import live animals, rather than chilled or frozen meat? "There is a traditional belief in many countries... that fresh meat is in some way tastier, healthier than boxed, chilled or frozen meat," Mr Stevenson said. Some of these nations would struggle to rear animals from birth as they experience arid conditions that have only worsened with global warming. Australia's LiveCorp, an organisation serving Australia's livestock exporters, and AgForce, which represents Queensland's rural producers, argue that shipping animals contributes to food security in water-stressed regions such as the Middle East. Campaigners have long protested against the export of livestock across the world They also say the export of livestock benefits the Australian economy and farming communities, which can sell their animals for a higher price abroad than they can domestically. Nonetheless, Australia committed to "phasing out" live sheep exports in 2023. It has not set a deadline, however. Its neighbour New Zealand enforced a ban the same year. In Europe, Luxembourg has outlawed the trade and the UK is on its way to doing the same - a bill passed through its lower chamber of parliament, the House of Commons, last month. On Wednesday it will be considered by the upper chamber, the House of Lords. Four Paws notes that as well as hosting a ship full of livestock in its Cape Town port, South Africa exports farm animals itself. "There is insufficient regulation in place and raising animals in the country simply to be transported to be killed in another means that South Africa bears the harmful impacts associated with animal agriculture while the importing country does not," Fiona Miles, the charity's South Africa director, said. Not only did the cattle docked in Cape Town cause a nasty stink, they also reminded the world of the risks animals face on the long journeys to our plates. "Animals are sentient beings and feel pain and stress just like we do," Ms Miles said. You may also be interested in: TUNIS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Tunisia in 2023 intercepted more than 75,000 illegal migrants while they were attempting to enter Europe via the Mediterranean Sea route to Italy, the private radio station Mosaique FM reported on Wednesday. It is more than double the number in 2022, during which more than 35,000 undocumented immigrants were arrested while sailing to Italy off Tunisian coasts, said the report, citing Tunisia's National Guard spokesman Houcemeddine Jbabli. Over the past several months, Tunisian security has intensified the crackdown upon waves of illegal immigration destined for the Italian island of Lampedusa, extending relevant operations from the southeastern province of Sfax to other provinces. Situated about 130 km from the Tunisian coastline, the island of Lampedusa is often chosen as the first stop for migrants making illegal sea voyages to Italy. Wallbox has sold close to 40,000 electric car chargers in Britain, although it is not known how many of these are the affected model An electric vehicle charger has been pulled from sale amid warnings that foreign hackers could use it as a weapon to cause electricity blackouts. The Office for Product Safety and Standards, the consumer safety regulator, has told charger company Wallbox that its Copper SB electric car charger does not comply with cyber security laws. That means it cannot be sold because it cannot be properly secured against hackers. Critics say continued sales of the Copper SB charger, which sells for around 500, risks letting hostile nations disrupt the UKs critical national infrastructure. Wallbox has sold close to 40,000 electric car chargers in Britain, although it is not known how many of these are the affected model. Copper SB chargers already installed in homes are not being recalled. Ken Munro, of Pen Test Partners, a cyber security company, said: The electric vehicle charging industry has inadvertently created a weapon that hostile foreign powers and others could use to destabilise our power grid. A lack of appropriate cyber security has left us all exposed to blackouts. Earlier this month, GCHQs national cyber security centre warned that foreign hackers were targeting the UKs critical infrastructure, including the electricity grid. Grid could be exposed to sudden demand Despite the regulators intervention, Wallbox is allowed to carry on selling its charger until the end of June. The Copper SB charger can be connected to the internet and operated through a smartphone app, letting motorists remotely turn it on or off. But this convenient internet access can allow hackers to find a software flaw in the charger, said Mr Munro. Hackers could exploit this and use it to disrupt the National Grid by switching on thousands at the same time. Each charger can draw up to 22 kilowatts, meaning the grid could be exposed to a sudden demand for tens of megawatts the capacity of a small power station if hackers gained access to a large number of vulnerable chargers. There is no evidence that a specific flaw exists in the Copper SB product, but Wallbox has told customers the device does not comply with electric vehicle charger regulations that were passed in 2021. In a marketing email sent last month, it said: Beginning June 30, Copper SB will no longer be compliant with the current UK Smart Charging Regulations and will, therefore, not be eligible for sale. Devices can be sold until June 30 It is thought that thousands of Copper SBs have been sold to households and small businesses around the country since the product was launched in 2019. Wallbox said it has sold half a million chargers worldwide, and Companies House records show that it sold just under 40,000 in Britain between 2021 and 2022. The firm did not answer when asked how many Copper SB chargers it has sold in the UK, but said it was no longer promoting the device in Britain. A spokesman said: We have, however, received an acceptance letter from OPSS [UK Office Product Safety Standards], which allows our partners to continue selling Copper SB until June 30 upon request. The Government insists it takes mitigating factors into consideration when deciding whether to allow ongoing sales of vulnerable devices. The Department for Business and Trade did not comment, but a spokesman said the withdrawal of the Copper SB did not amount to a ban. 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 man has been charged with murder after a report of a serious assault on Sunday morning A man has been charged with murder after a 64-year-old man died following reports of a serious assault in Cardiff. Officers were called to Belmont Walk just after 09:00 GMT on Sunday. Mujeeb Rahman Hassani, 38, will appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on Thursday, charged with the murder of Ibrahim Yassin. Det Ch Insp Matt Davies said it was a "shock" to the "close-knit community" of Butetown. The senior investigating officer added "immense grief and distress" had been caused to Mr Yassin's family. "There has been a considerable police presence in Butetown this week and we wish to thank the local community for their support and understanding during our investigation," he said. South Wales Police urged anyone with information to contact them. Officers closed local roads around Cardiff Bay on Sunday and pedestrians were asked to avoid the area during the investigation. Cardinal Dolan has denounced the recent funeral for trans icon Cecilia Gentili that was held at St. Pats. More than 1,000 people attended the ceremony at the historic Manhattan cathedral on Thursday a crowd Dolan described as disrespectful. Once the funeral started is when the trouble started because of the irreverence and the disrespect of the big crowd that was there, he said Tuesday on SiriusXMs The Catholic Channel, addressing the funeral for the first time. That was very, very sad. The parish had received a call from Gentilis loved ones requesting the funeral be held at the famed site, according to Dolan. They didnt know the background of this woman who had died, the cardinal said. All they know is somebody called and said, Our dear friend died. Wed love to have the funeral at St. Patricks Cathedral.' Gentilis friends told the church she was a Catholic and that holding her Mass at the church would be a great source of consolation, Dolan said. He added that the parish does not do FBI checks on people who want to be buried and were not informed Gentili was trans. Priests made a quick decision not to hold a Mass for Gentili, an award-winning author, former sex worker and actress. I applaud our priests who made a quick decision that, uh-oh, with behavior like this we cant do a Mass, Dolan said. Well do the Liturgy of the Word, which is the readings, and the sermon and the prayers, the petition and the Our Father, and then well stop it. The Mass is not going to go on, he added. Bravo for our cathedral people who knew nothing about this that was coming up. The Catholic Church has long condemned queer and transgender people, but in October the Vatican announced trans people would be allowed to be baptized and serve as godparents in certain situations. After Gentilis funeral, outraged Catholics took to social media to decry what the believed to be scantily clad mourners and people cursing at the podium while eulogizing Gentili. Mourners also playfully dubbed the woman a saint and changed the lyrics of certain Catholic songs as a lighthearted tribute to her. The funeral moved Dolan to ask the cathedrals pastor, the Very Rev. Enrique Salvo, hold a rare Mass of Reparation to pray for forgiveness for the funeral. _____ AI was used in the creation of this article. The article was reviewed, fact-checked and edited by a content review team. We might earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links. McClatchy newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Florida isnt just about crunching numbers. Think of it as a challenge where less than half of the players (according to NASBA, under 50% on their first try) make it past the boss level: the Uniform CPA Examination. This isnt your average test; it tests your mettle in financial accounting, business law, and more. Florida throws its curveballs, requiring CPA hopefuls to rack up 150 semester hours of education with a hefty dose of accounting and business courses. And lets not forget the real-world experiencegetting your hands dirty with taxation, auditing, and financial advisory tasks is part of the deal. This guide cuts through the fluff and dives straight into what you need to know about how to become a CPA in Florida. From passing the Uniform CPA exam to applying for Florida CPA licensure, below are the Florida-specific hurdles you need to jump. Key Takeaways Eligibility and Education: Florida welcomes CPA candidates without imposing age or residency restrictions, requiring 150 semester hours of education, including specific accounting and business courses. Work Experience: Aspiring CPAs need at least one year of relevant work experience, which can be part-time or volunteer, under a licensed CPA or IQAB-recognized chartered accountant. CPA Exam Structure: The exam consists of core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) and a Discipline-specific section (BAR, ISC, TCP), allowing candidates to tailor their licensure to career goals. International Requirements: Non-residents and international candidates must have their educational credentials evaluated and meet English proficiency, with specific steps for SSN provision and work authorization. License Renewal: Licensed CPAs in Florida must complete 80 hours of CPE every two years, using a reporting tool to document compliance, ensuring their practice remains uninterrupted. General Eligibility Criteria for CPA Candidates in Florida Unlike some professions where age, residency, or citizenship might be restrictive, the CPA profession in Florida focuses more on educational achievements and professional integrity. Key Eligibility Criteria Age Requirement: Florida does not impose an age limit for CPA candidates. This inclusivity ensures individuals can pursue the CPA designation at any career stage. Social Security Number (SSN): Candidates must provide a Social Security Number as part of their application. This requirement is standard for many professional licensures in the United States, serving as a unique identifier for each applicant. Residency Requirement: Interestingly, Florida does not require CPA candidates to be state residents. This opens the door for individuals from across the country and even international candidates who meet the educational and experience requirements to pursue CPA licensure in Florida. Good Moral Character: While not a quantifiable requirement like education or experience, demonstrating good moral character is essential for CPA candidates. This includes a background free of significant criminal offenses or financial misdeeds that could question a candidates ability to uphold the professions ethical standards. Florida CPA Requirements: Education and Experience Becoming a CPA in Florida is more than just passing an exam; its about meeting specific educational and professional prerequisites. The Florida Board of Accountancy has laid out precise requirements to ensure that every CPA possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold the standards of certified public accounting. Educational Requirements 150 Semester Hours: To sit for the CPA exam in Florida, candidates must complete 150 semester hours of college education. This goes beyond the typical bachelors degree, requiring additional coursework to deepen your expertise in accounting and business. Accounting Courses: You must complete 36 semester hours in upper-division accounting courses. These arent just any accounting classes; they must cover essential topics like financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and cost accounting, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of the field. Business Courses: Besides accounting, youll need 39 semester hours in general business courses. This includes a mandatory business law course covering the Uniform Commercial Code, which is vital for any CPAs toolkit. Other courses include economics, finance, management, and marketing, providing a well-rounded business education. Real-World Experience Requirement Aspiring CPAs in Florida are required to have at least one year of relevant work experience, which can be demonstrated through various forms of employment, including part-time positions or volunteer work, as long as it is under the supervision of a licensed CPA or a chartered accountant recognized by the International Qualifications Appraisal Board (IQAB). The experience must involve applying skills in accounting, attestation, compilation, consulting, financial advisory, management advisory, and tax. It must be gained in one of several approved settings, including academia, government, industry, or public practice, ensuring that CPAs have a broad understanding of the field. The work experience can be accumulated over different time frames: a minimum of 20 hours per week for up to 104 weeks or a full-time basis of 40 hours per week for at least 42 weeks. This flexibility allows candidates to gain the necessary experience in a manner that fits their personal and professional lives. To officially document this experience, candidates must use the Verification of Work Experience form, which requires validation from their supervising CPA. International CPA License Requirements in Florida International applicants aiming for CPA licensure in Florida face unique requirements, yet the states inclusive approach allows non-residents and those without U.S. citizenship to apply. Key steps include having educational credentials evaluated by services approved by the Florida Board of Accountancy to ensure they meet the 150-semester hour requirement equivalent to U.S. standards. International candidates must also provide a Social Security Number (SSN), though alternatives may be available for those without one. Proficiency in English is essential, as the CPA exam is in English, potentially requiring proof through tests like the TOEFL. Additionally, while Florida doesnt mandate residency, visa, and work authorization are necessary for completing the required professional experience in the U.S. CPA Exam in Florida The CPA exam in Florida is meticulously structured to assess the comprehensive abilities of candidates across several critical domains of accounting and finance. This includes the following sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD): This section evaluates a candidates ability to perform audits, including understanding the process, principles, and auditing standards. It also covers attestation engagements and the ethics and independence required in auditing. Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR): FAR tests knowledge of financial accounting principles and the application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States. It includes preparing financial statements, the conceptual framework, and financial reporting for entities such as government and non-profit organizations. Regulation (REG): This section assesses understanding of business law, ethics, and federal tax procedures. It covers federal taxation of individuals, entities, and property transactions, as well as business law topics like contracts, the legal responsibilities of agents and principals, and the implications of government regulation on businesses. Discipline Section Choice Candidates must choose one of the following Discipline-specific sections, allowing them to tailor their licensure to their career goals or areas of interest: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR): Focuses on the analytical aspects of accounting and reporting. It covers advanced topics in financial accounting, including business combinations, intercompany transactions, foreign currency transactions, and strategic planning and data analysis techniques. Information Systems and Controls (ISC): This section is designed for those interested in the intersection of accounting and information technology. It covers the design, implementation, and monitoring of internal control systems and the evaluation of technologys impact on accounting processes and the protection of information assets. Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP): Ideal for those who wish to specialize in taxation, this section delves into tax compliance, tax planning strategies, and the management of tax liabilities for individuals, businesses, and other entities. It includes understanding the tax implications of complex transactions and strategic tax planning. In Florida, CPA candidates are provided with an 18-month window to pass all sections of the CPA exam, starting from the date they pass their first section. This timeframe is designed to ensure that candidates maintain a focused and timely approach to completing their licensure requirements while accommodating the comprehensive study and preparation needed to excel in each distinct area of the exam. Navigating the CPA Licensing Process in Florida After conquering the CPA exam, the journey to becoming a licensed CPA in Florida enters its crucial phase: navigating the licensing process. Submission of Official Transcripts: Your first step is to submit official transcripts to the Florida Board of Accountancy. These documents must verify that youve met the 150 semester hours requirement, including the specific accounting and business courses mandated by Florida CPA exam requirements. Verification of Experience: Alongside your educational credentials, you must provide proof of your professional experience. Florida requires CPA candidates to complete at least one year (2,000 hours) of work under the supervision of a licensed CPA. Although the licensing timeline varies, CPA applicants report that receiving a licensing answer can take 1-2 months. Detailed Fee Breakdown for CPA Candidates in Florida The overall cost to take all four sections of the CPA exam in Florida is $1,379.20. This fee is divided equally among the four sections, making the cost per section $344.80. This standardized fee structure ensures that candidates know exactly how much they need to budget for the examination phase of their CPA licensure process. When submitting your application to sit for the CPA exam in Florida, there is a non-refundable application fee of $50. Renewing Your Florida CPA License Renewing a CPA license in Florida requires attention to specific deadlines and compliance with CPE requirements. The license renewal cycle occurs every two years, with CPAs needing to submit a renewal application through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website. Additionally, CPAs must report 80 hours of CPE credits earned during the two years preceding the renewal deadline. This includes specific mandates such as 4 hours of Board-approved ethics CPE and a balance of hours in accounting, auditing, and other relevant subjects. CPAs must use a CPE reporting tool. Failure to meet these requirements by the renewal deadline, typically December 31st of the renewal year, may result in the inability to renew the license and could lead to inactive status or additional fees to reactivate the license. Comparison of Floridas CPA Requirements with Other States When considering where to pursue CPA licensure, understanding how Floridas requirements stack up against other states can provide valuable insights. Heres how Florida compares: Education Requirements Florida: Requires 150 semester hours of education, including 36 hours of upper-division accounting courses and 39 hours of general business courses. Notably, Florida mandates a business law course covering the Uniform Commercial Code. Other States: The 150-hour rule is standard across most states, but the specifics can vary. For example, Texas also requires 150 hours but specifies 30 hours of upper-division accounting courses, slightly less than Florida. Some states, like California, have unique requirements, such as ethics studies. Residency Requirement Florida: Florida does not require CPA candidates to be state residents. This open approach allows candidates from anywhere in the U.S. or internationally to obtain licensure in Florida, provided they meet other requirements. Other States: Some states, like Alabama, have residency requirements, necessitating candidates to be residents, have a place of business, or be employed in the state for a certain period before applying for the exam. Experience Requirement Florida: Candidates must complete one year (2,000 hours) of work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA. This experience can be gained in public practice, industry, government, or academia. Other States: The experience requirement is fairly consistent across states, with one to two years being common. However, the nature of the work and the settings in which it can be obtained (e.g., public accounting vs. industry) can differ. For instance, New York requires at least one year of experience but is more specific about the type of work that qualifies. Ethics Examination Florida: This state does not require passing an ethics exam, often provided by the AICPA, as part of the licensure process. Other States: The ethics exam requirement is expected but not universal. States like Missouri also require an ethics exam, but the content and provider may vary. Some states may have their own ethics exam or course requirement instead of or in addition to the AICPA exam. Then there are states like Florida that dont require it at all. Continuing Professional Education Florida: CPAs must complete 80 hours of CPE every two years, with specific requirements for accounting, auditing, and ethics CPE credits. Other States: CPE requirements vary widely. For example, Illinois requires 120 hours of CPE in three years, with no specific mandate for ethics credits, showcasing a more flexible approach compared to Floridas more structured CPE criteria. Conclusion Becoming a Certified Public Accountant in Florida is a multifaceted process transcending mere academic achievement. It is a comprehensive pathway that includes meeting stringent educational prerequisites, gaining real-world experience under seasoned professionals, and successfully navigating the Uniform CPA Examination. Floridas inclusive criteria welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds by not imposing age or residency restrictions, thereby broadening the opportunity for aspiring CPAs both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the requirement for continuous professional development ensures that CPAs in Florida maintain the highest standards of knowledge and ethics in their practice. For those ready to embark on this challenging yet rewarding career path, Florida offers a well-defined blueprint for success in the accounting profession. FAQ How long does it take to become a CPA in Florida? Becoming a CPA in Florida typically takes around eight years, encompassing the time needed to complete a bachelors degree (4 years), the additional coursework to meet the 150-semester hour requirement (1-2 years), and gaining the necessary depending on work experience (1 year). Additionally, preparing for and passing the CPA exam can add time to this journey on the individuals study schedule and success in passing the exam sections. Can international candidates become CPAs in Florida? Yes, international candidates can pursue CPA licensure in Florida. The states Board of Accountancy allows candidates outside the U.S. to apply, provided they meet the educational and experience requirements. A recognized credential evaluation service must evaluate international education, and candidates must navigate visa and residency considerations, making Florida an accessible choice for international CPA aspirants. What is the real-world experience requirement for Florida CPAs? Florida requires CPA candidates to complete at least one year (2,000 hours) of professional experience under a licensed CPAs supervision. This experience, which can be gained in public practice, industry, government, or academia, is crucial for applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Is there an ethics examination requirement for Florida CPAs? No. Florida does not require CPA candidates to pass an ethics examination as part of the licensure process. Although many states require an AICPA-administered course and exam, Florida is not one of them. What are the CPE requirements for maintaining a CPA license in Florida? Licensed CPAs in Florida must complete 80 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every two years. This requirement includes specific mandates for accounting, auditing, and ethics CPE credits, ensuring that CPAs stay current with evolving accounting standards, practices, and regulations. How much does a CPA make in Florida? CPA salaries in Florida range from $50,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization. This variation reflects differences in market demand, employer size, and individual performance. JAKARTA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Two passengers died in the Indonesian province of West Java early Wednesday after a car fatally crashed into a wall fence, local police said. The accident took place in Sukabumi, about 90 km away from Bandung, the provincial capital city, at around 2:30 a.m. local time when the driver allegedly lost control after overtaking a car on the highway, Sukabumi Traffic Police officer Yanuar Fajar told local media. The victims, he said, are a 20-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman. He continued that fire engines and personnel were also called to help evacuate the two deceased trapped in the smashed vehicle. He also said that police were still carrying out an investigation into the cause of the accident. Deadly road accidents are common in the Southeast Asian country due to overloading, poor road conditions and reckless driving. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) An auto inspector who falsely coded thousands of vehicles to pass inspection reports has been sentenced, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced Wednesday. Rodolfo Rodriguez, 43, of Charlotte, will serve ten months after pleading guilty in June of last year to conspiracy charges related to the Clean Air Act. Court records stated that from 2019 through 2022, Rodriguez was employed as an emissions inspector and later owned an auto inspection business. During that period, he coded nearly 4,000 vehicles with false information that would have otherwise failed inspections. MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS Crime & Public Safety Rodriguez received cash payments in return for the false vehicle coding. Rodriguez was also accused of underpaying the state per safety inspection. Rodriguez was also ordered to pay over $300,000 in fines and $24,000 in restitution. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. A Charlotte auto shop owner will spend 10 months in prison and pay over $300,000 in fines for violating the Clean Air Act. Action 9 previously reported 43-year-old Rodolfo Rodriguez pleaded guilty to changing the information on vehicles that would have failed emissions inspections. PREVIOUS STORIES: Investigators said he did that on more than 3,000 cars from July 2019 until November 2022. Prosecutors said when he committed the crimes, he was working at Friendly Auto Repair, and later was the owner and operator of Auto Spa Auto Inspections and More and Tiger Auto Inspections and More, Inc. Rodriguez initially faced up to seven years in prison for his charges, but a judge decided to give him 10 months and three years of supervised release. (WATCH PREVIOUS: Auto repair shop owner accused of lying about emissions tests facing charges) CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A Charlotte man who took more than $700,000 in fraudulent COVID-19 relief funds was sentenced on Wednesday, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced. Evan Perez, 35, of Charlotte, will serve two years after pleading guilty in September 2023 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He was also ordered to pay more than $720,000 in restitution. MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY Court records stated that from 2020 through 2021, Perez worked with others to fraudulently obtain COVID-19 relief funds for businesses he operated including a salon, barber school, and early learning center. He fabricated numerous pieces of information including employee headcount and payroll costs, ultimately receiving about $720,000 in relief, court records stated. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. Police in Charlotte, North Carolina, have identified the eight people arrested and released after a 10-hour "protest and standoff" that stemmed from an Eritrean "cultural event." The Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department on Tuesday released the names of those who were arrested Saturday when officers tried to disperse unlawful crowds of protesters who showed up to a private property and were spilling onto the street. Authorities said officers were attacked by people wielding sticks, rocks and other items, and crowds protesting the African nation of Eritrea's government also set a tractor-trailer on fire in North Carolina's largest city. Police said they seized two firearms over the course of several hours. Mecklenburg County Jail online records show that the eight people arrested were released from custody anywhere within less than an hour to four hours maximum afterward. Nesa Tesfay, 31, was charged with disorderly conduct and failure to disperse in connection to Saturday's standoff. She was previously arrested in May 2022 on charges of communicating threats and violating a protective order, but was released the next day, Mecklenburg County Jail records show. Tesfay was also arrested in November 2021 and again released the next day on charges of communicating threats and two counts of simple assault. The status of those cases was not immediately known, but jail records show Tesfay was arrested and released less than an hour later Saturday. CHARLOTTE PROTESTERS ATTACK OFFICERS, SET TRACTOR-TRAILER ON FIRE IN RIOT AT ERITREAN 'CULTURAL EVENT': POLICE From left, Nesa Tesfay, Haile Tsaeda, Gebrehiwot Adhanom and Luwam Tewelde are among the eight arrested in connection to a protest at an Eritrean cultural event in Charlotte, North Carolina. Haile Tsaeda, 39, was charged with assault on a government employee and injury to personal property in connection to Saturday's protest. Efrem Michael, 52, was charged with disorderly conduct and failure to disperse. From left to right, Weldegiorgis Petros, Semer Keflay, Girmay Dawit and Efrem Michael were among the eight arrested at a Charlotte protest on Saturday. Gebrehiwot Adhanom, 59, was charged with assault on a government employee and resist/delay/obstruct, police said. Luwam Tewelde, 37, was charged with carrying a concealed weapon and failure to disperse. HUNDREDS OF AFRICAN MIGRANTS GET INTO MASS BRAWL, LEADING TO BLOOD-STAINED STREETS IN ISRAEL READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Police described how when bike unit officers attempted to move protesters out of the street, several protesters threw objects and pushed back against the officers, who then deployed pepper spray. While multiple protesters and officers were treated on scene for injuries related to the pepper spray, police said a female protester struck an officer, and a firearm was seized from her person. On Saturday, police said that female protester had been charged with inciting to riot, failure to disperse, injury to personal property and assault on a government official. Charlotte police officers in riot gear responded to a protest at an Eritrean cultural event. Additionally, Weldegiorgis Petros, 29, was charged with failure to disperse; Semer Keflay, 30, was charged with failure to disperse and "going armed to the terror of the public," and Girmay Dawit, 45, was charged with carrying a concealed weapon, police said on Tuesday. Original article source: Charlotte police ID 8 arrested, released after African cultural event devolved into riot, tractor-trailer fire President Bidens reelection campaign is bashing former President Trump for his plans for handling the influx of migrants at the U.S. southern border, after a report that Trump is planning militarized mass deportations and detention camps if reelected. The Washington Post reported Wednesday that Trump, the likely GOP nominee, wanted to detain migrants on military bases and fly them on military planes in his first term and plans to complete that unfinished business if granted a second term. Lets call this plan what it is: racist, un-American, and ineffective. Its cheap politics as usual, at a time when the American people demand action from their elected officials, Maca Casado, the Biden campaigns Hispanic media director, said in a statement. Casado said the plan isnt about securing the border, and noted that Trump single-handedly stopped Republicans from passing legislation that aimed to tighten security at the border. Earlier this month, a group of senators from both parties unveiled border legislation that included aid to Ukraine and Israel, but Republicans who had been demanding that aid to Ukraine be coupled with action at the border argued the package was insufficient. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said it was dead on arrival in the House, a move that a number of lawmakers in both parties have indicated involved political calculations, given Trumps desire to run on the border as a political issue against Biden this fall. Now his friends in Congress, who claim to care so deeply about border security, are following Trumps lead again: doing nothing to address the issue and spending their recess eating well-done steak at Mar-a-Lago, Casado said. Johnson visited Trumps Palm Beach property, Mar-a-Lago, earlier this week during the House recess. The Biden campaign also called Trumps reported border agenda more extreme, more inhumane [and] more violent than his immigration policy in the first term. Donald Trump promised to rule as a dictator on his first day and now were seeing what that means: deploying combat soldiers to build mass detention camps and rounding up immigrants like cattle, once again separating families and sparking national chaos, Casado said. The border is a top issue in the 2024 election, with Republicans hitting Biden for months over the influx of migrants coming into the U.S. The president countered by criticizing Republicans for not passing legislation to help the situation. Instead of taking up the border bill, the House focused on impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, which they successfully did last week. But, the articles are not expected to move in the Democrat-controlled Senate. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A leader of the Cherokee Nation is warning Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to avoid a government shutdown, saying it would have a devastating impact on Indian Country and the Cherokee Nation in particular. A partial shutdown will begin March 2 unless Congress takes action to extend funding. Appropriations covered by the Agriculture, Energy-Water, Military Construction-Veterans Affairs, and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development bills would be the first to expire, with other appropriations running through March 8. Congress is on recess, and the House is not set to return to Washington, D.C., until just before the first deadline. As the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation the largest tribal nation in the United States with citizens living in every state across the country, including Louisiana I write to draw your attention to the devastating impact that a federal government shutdown will have not only on Cherokee Nation in particular, but also for Indian Country as a whole, Chuck Hoskin Jr., the Cherokee Nation principal chief, wrote in the letter to Johnson. The letter was addressed to Johnson on Feb. 14, ahead of the annual National Congress of American Indians in Washington. He urged Johnson to take this danger into account as the March 1 and March 8 deadlines to pass funding bills approach. Hoskin emphasized that essential tribal services such as health care, education programs and public safety that are funded by federal money will be severely curtailed if Congress fails to keep the government open. These services are not luxuries but lifelines that maintain the health, culture, and safety of our people, he wrote in the letter, first reported by The Washington Post. If the federal government were to shut down, Hoskin said more than 142,000 Cherokee Nation citizens will not be provided with groceries, nearly 13,000 people will lose access to diabetes medication and cancer treatment and more than 1,000 will not be able to continue workplace training programs. He added that detention agreements will have to be canceled, which could release 85,000 criminals before their sentences are served. Hoskin argued that if the federal government shuts down, it disrupts the Cherokee Nations ability to exercise sovereignty because it cannot fully administer the programs that are central to our self-governance. He added that the same is true for all tribal nations in the country, which will greatly feel the effects of a shutdown. I implore you, as Speaker of the House, to consider the broader implications of a government shutdown on Indian Country, he wrote. It is critical that the United States honor its commitments and responsibilities by finding a resolution that averts this crisis. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. MANILA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least 14 people were killed and three others were critically injured after a truck fell into a cliff in Negros Oriental province in central Philippines on Wednesday. Police said the truck was traveling along a highway in Mabinay town when the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn and roll into a ravine at around 1:30 p.m. local time. The upside-down truck pinned some of the passengers under the vehicle while others were thrown out, police added. Videos posted on social media showed bodies strewn around the crash site. Police and rescuers are on site to help the victims and determine the cause of the fatal accident. It was not clear how many people were on the truck. A South Side alderman is alleging a City Council colleague assaulted him, and calling for that council member to resign his leadership positions in the body. Ald. Desmon Yancy, 5th, sent a message to Black Caucus Chair Stephanie Coleman, 16th, arguing 7th Ward Ald. Greg Mitchells behavior makes him unfit for leadership, an email obtained by the Tribune shows. He told his council colleagues Mitchell had made an unprovoked assault on him. This behavior is not only an escalation of aggression towards me from Mitchell, it is part of a pattern of intimidation and violence that he has become associated with since last fall, Yancy wrote. Mitchell allegedly grabbed Yancy during an argument over an ordinance sponsored by Yancy that seeks to requires 60% of new development in the South Shore neighborhood be reserved for affordable housing. Yancy declined to comment Wednesday morning. He said he had committed to a process to resolve the controversy and would comment later Wednesday after the Black Caucus met. Yancy demanded Mitchell resign his posts as chairman of the Transportation and Public Ways Committee, vice chairman of the Housing and Real Estate Committee and vice chairman of the Black Caucus. In todays climate, political differences have devolved into name calling and violence toward elected officials, Yancy said. It is equally out of order that an elected official would resort to violence during a disagreement with a colleague. Mitchell declined comment Wednesday morning. Last weeks incident was not the only time Mitchell has been involved in a scuffle. Last fall, a man recording a TikTok video was arrested for allegedly shoving the alderman after Mitchell grabbed his phone in protest of being filmed in the lobby of City Hall. But charges were dropped in November, records show. The assault allegation is also the second claim of physical intimidation in the City Council in recent months. Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, 35th, narrowly escaped council censure in November, a week after he was accused of threatening and trying to block some fellow aldermen from entering the council chambers to debate a resolution opposed by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The aftermath saw Ramirez-Rosa resign his posts as Johnsons floor leader and Zoning chair. Its so far unclear whether Mitchell could face consequences. Coleman did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A Johnson spokesperson declined comment. ---------- (The Tribunes Alice Yin contributed.) ____ CHICAGO As the fight over the future of police discipline in Chicago carries on, attorneys for the largest Chicago police officers union have asked a county judge to extend a moratorium on more than a dozen pending disciplinary cases involving CPD officers. The motion to extend the stay on police board hearings was filed Tuesday by attorneys for the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, the union representing active rank-and-file CPD officers and detectives, as well as retirees. The union is now asking Judge Michael T. Mullen to indefinitely extend his previous order that paused all pending cases currently on the Chicago Police Boards docket until Feb. 25. The FOP argues that a handful of officers currently facing serious disciplinary charges will be irreparably injured if the Feb. 25 deadline is not extended, according to the motion presented to the judge Wednesday. Because the City Council voted once again to reject the Arbitration Award, Police Officers represented by the (the FOP) are continuing to be denied their statutory right to grievance arbitration to resolve disciplinary disputes, the union wrote in its Tuesday motion. If the Court does not continue the current stay of Police Board proceedings and instead allows it to expire on February 25th, these Officers will be irreparably injured by being forced to proceed before the Police Board. Attorneys for the city have yet to respond to the FOPs motion, and the next hearing in the case is scheduled for Feb. 26. During a hearing at the Daley Center Wednesday, Mullen said the case is among his top priorities because this is a significant issue for our entire community. Mullens initial order came earlier this month after the City Council once again voted down a provision of the proposed FOP contract that would allow the most serious CPD misconduct cases to be heard and decided behind closed doors by a third party.That potential change part of an arbitration award issued to the FOP during contract negotiations last summer would upend more than 60 years of precedent in the citys police discipline apparatus. Edwin Benn, the arbitrator who oversaw the negotiations between the city and union, said that CPD officers have the right to arbitrate discipline cases because they are public sector employees represented by a collective bargaining unit. After the City Councils last rejection, the union asked Mullen to enter an order to put the arbitration award in effect, citing the Illinois Uniform Arbitration Act. In their first response to the unions complaint, attorneys for the city said the FOP had misread state labor law. Defendants admit that the Lodge seeks the stated relief but deny that the Uniform Arbitration Act applies and deny that the Lodge is entitled to any relief, city attorneys wrote. FOP attorney Tim Grace has represented CPD officers in police board cases since 2017. In an affidavit submitted to Mullen on Tuesday, Grace said the unions latest motion only applies to 15 CPD officers currently facing disciplinary charges. Of those 15 officers, Grace said, eight remain on no-pay status, and the delay in their disciplinary proceedings has caused them great hardship. Cook County court records show that at least two of those eight officers have quit CPD in recent months. More than 20 pending cases on the police boards docket with allegations ranging from improper use of deadly force to drug use to domestic abuse have been paused while the legal fight proceeds. While the proposed contracts disciplinary provision remains up in the air, the City Council last year unanimously approved all other aspects of the contract, including a 20% raise for CPD officers over four years. _____ Angry Chicago residents railed against local leaders at a city council meeting Wednesday as tensions run high over the national illegal immigrant crisis. City and state officials have approved hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to feed, clothe and house more than 35,000 migrants who have been transported to Chicago and its suburbs in the past year and a half. The overwhelming influx of people has drained city resources and upset residents who told council members they have neglected needy American communities in favor of foreign asylum seekers. "All this asylum-seeking lie, all this about refugees no, no, no. What's happening is they're emptying out the dregs of their jails into the United States and to our communities," one Chicago resident said during public comments at Wednesday's meeting. "They're junking up our country. And yeah, we feel some kind of way about it because it's our country," the resident said. "We're going to get them out of our communities because they don't deserve to be there." COLORADO TOWN UNANIMOUSLY DECLARES NON-SANCTUARY STATUS AS NEARBY DENVER GRAPPLES WITH MIGRANTS: NO ROOM A group of migrants receives food outside the migrant landing zone during a winter storm in Chicago on Jan. 12. Another speaker demanded "not another dollar for illegals" after Illinois' Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker announced plans to allocate an additional $252 million to support Chicago's response to the migrant crisis. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "If the crisis is so bad, the city council members who are so concerned should donate their salaries to the cause like a real public servant should," the woman said. SPEAKER JOHNSON HIGHLIGHTS 100 STORIES OF DANGERS AND DESTRUCTION OF BIDEN BORDER CATASTROPHE Recently arrived migrants in a makeshift shelter operated by the city of Chicago at O'Hare International Airport on Aug. 31, 2023. Pritzker has pledged around $182 million in state funds for Chicago, while Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has committed up to $70 million more in a joint funding plan to ensure migrants sent to the city from Texas have access to wraparound services and health care. Those funds come on top of the state committing $160 million in November to illegal immigrants for "welcome, shelter, and independence." That commitment was in addition to the $478 million the state has spent since the start of the response, according to the governor's office. TEXAS HAS SPENT NEARLY $150M BUSSING MIGRANTS TO SANCTUARY CITIES: REPORT Mayor Brandon Johnson gives an update on migrant issues at City Hall in Chicago on Jan. 29. Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza has launched a public website to track state spending on the migrant crisis and provide transparency for taxpayers interested in how their hard-earned money is being spent. More than 35,000 migrants have been transported to Chicago and its suburbs over the past year and a half. Despite this influx, recent data from the city indicates a decline in the number of migrants staying at shelters, with figures dropping to their lowest point in months, according to Fox 32 Chicago. As of last week, the number of migrants in shelters has fallen below 13,000, marking a decrease from peaks observed in mid- and early January, when the count reached nearly 15,000. The joint funding announcement came after state, county and city teams estimated that around $321 million is needed to maintain shelter and services this calendar year, on top of previously committed funding. Mayor Brandon Johnson and the city of Chicago are still on the hook for about $70 million to cover costs associated with providing services for illegal immigrants. Asked about the needed funds last week, Johnson told reporters there are a "number of matters that need to be worked through," according to NBC Chicago. Fox News Digital's Michael Dorgan contributed to this report. Original article source: Chicago residents speak out against migrants welcomed by city: 'Junking up our country' The city of Chicago filed a sprawling lawsuit against six of the world's largest oil and gas companies and a leading energy industry association, accusing them of deceiving consumers in the city about the "climate dangers" posed by fossil fuels. In its nearly 200-page complaint filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County late Tuesday, Chicago listed BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, Phillips 66, Shell and the American Petroleum Institute (API) as defendants. The filing blames the companies for causing global warming broadly and a series of specific deadly weather events in the city stretching back decades. "There is no justice without accountability," Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement. "From the unprecedented poor air quality that we experienced last summer to the basement floodings that our residents on the West Side experienced, the consequences of this crisis are severe, as are the costs of surviving them. That is why we are seeking to hold these defendants accountable." "Evidence shows that these defendants intentionally misled Chicago residents about the climate change-related dangers associated with their oil and gas products. If unabated, climate change could result in catastrophic impacts on our city," added Chicago counsel Mary Richardson-Lowry. "We bring this lawsuit to ensure that the defendants who have profited from the deception campaign bear responsibility for their conduct." BILLIONAIRE-FUELED ROCKEFELLER FUND COORDINATED CLIMATE LAWSUITS WITH DEM STATE AG: INTERNAL DOCUMENTS Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson Chicago's lawsuit seeks relief in the form of hundreds of millions of dollars in compensatory and loss-of-use damages, and penalties and fines for statutory violations. It also seeks disgorgement of profits and enjoining the companies from "engaging in the deceptive and unfair acts and practices alleged in the lawsuit." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP LEFT-WING CLIMATE GROUP IS QUIETLY PREPARING JUDGES FOR GLOBAL WARMING CASES While the city did not immediately publish a copy of the complaint, a copy obtained by the Chicago Sun-Times shows that it alleges 11 counts of fraud, nuisance, conspiracy and negligence. Additionally, the complaint points to a 1995 heat wave which claimed the lives of more than 700 residents as evidence of the dangers posed by fossil fuels. It also blames the oil companies for extreme heat, increased rain and flooding. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said there is no justice without accountability after the lawsuit was filed. CONSUMER GROUP REVEALS LEFT-WING GROUPS INCREASINGLY USING COURTS TO PUSH GREEN NEW DEAL "The record of the past two decades demonstrates that the industry has achieved its goal of providing affordable, reliable American energy to U.S. consumers while substantially reducing emissions and our environmental footprint," API Senior Vice President and General Counsel Ryan Meyers told Fox News Digital in a statement. "This ongoing, coordinated campaign to wage meritless, politicized lawsuits against a foundational American industry and its workers is nothing more than a distraction from important national conversations and an enormous waste of taxpayer resources," Meyers continued. "Climate policy is for Congress to debate and decide, not a patchwork of city halls and courts." Theodore Boutrous, who serves as counsel for Chevron Corporation and is a partner at the firm Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher, added that climate change should be addressed through legislation, not piecemeal litigation filed across the country. "Addressing climate change requires a coordinated international policy response, not meritless local litigation over lawful and essential energy production," Boutrous said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "As the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit held in dismissing a similar New York City lawsuit, such a sprawling case is simply beyond the limits of state law." The complaint, meanwhile, closely mirrors similar lawsuits filed by states, cities and counties nationwide. Chicago is being represented by the California law firm Sher Edling, which has spearheaded such climate-related public nuisance lawsuits arguing that oil companies are financially responsible for global warming. TOP REPUBLICANS LAUNCH PROBE INTO LEONARDO DICAPRIO-FUNDED BLUE STATE LAWSUITS AGAINST BIG OIL The firm has filed cases on behalf of Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware, Minnesota, New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Baltimore, Honolulu and local governments across the country. In January, a judge consolidated seven of Sher Edling's local climate cases in California with the state government's case, meaning the firm effectively has a role in the deception case filed by the State of California as well. Vic Sher, a partner at law firm Sher Edling, speaks about the climate litigation he is involved in during a virtual panel in December 2021. Sher Edling is representing Chicago and other states in climate cases. Sher Edling, which was founded in 2016 with the stated goal of taking on such litigation, states on its website that its climate practice seeks to hold oil companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP and Shell accountable for their alleged "deception" about climate change . The firm has raised millions of dollars from liberal dark money nonprofits to fund its pursuits. While the entirety of Sher Edling's funding structure is unknown, the firm has for years taken donations from a pass-through fund managed by the left-wing New Venture Fund, whose individual donors are obscured from public view, meaning donors are able to remain anonymous. "Big Oil has lied to the American people for decades about the catastrophic climate risks of their products, and now Chicago and communities across the country are rightfully insisting they pay for the damage theyve caused," said Richard Wiles, the president of the Center for Climate Integrity, which has advocated for the lawsuits. "With Chicago, the nations third-largest city, joining the fray, there is no doubt that we are witnessing a historic wave of lawsuits that could finally hold Big Oil accountable for the climate crisis they knowingly caused." Original article source: Chicago sues oil companies for causing climate change, points to 1995 heat wave The city of Chicago sued six major oil companies and the primary fossil fuel lobbying group Tuesday, alleging they funded and planned a campaign of climate change denial that directly affects the citys residents. In the lawsuit, the city accused BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Exxon Mobil, Phillips 66, Shell, and the American Petroleum Institute (API) of misleading the public about the impact of their products and of contributing to the effects of climate change on Chicago. These impacts include unsafe summer temperatures, an increase in extreme weather, shoreline erosion and susceptibility to disasters such as flash flooding in basements on the citys West Side, according to the lawsuit. As a result, the city says, climate mitigation and response projects in low-income communities have cost it nearly $200 million. The complaint also singles out the API for accusations it created front groups to promote climate disinformation and advocacy from a purportedly objective source. The accusation echoes remarks made by Exxon Mobil lobbyist Keith McCoy to an activist in 2021 while being covertly recorded that the company aggressively [fought] against some of the science on climate. Exxon has disclaimed responsibility for McCoys comments and said they do not represent the view of the company. There is no justice without accountability, Mayor Brandon Johnson (D) said in a statement Tuesday. From the unprecedented poor air quality that we experienced last summer to the basement floodings that our residents on the West Side experienced, the consequences of this crisis are severe, as are the costs of surviving them. That is why we are seeking to hold these Defendants accountable. Numerous states and municipalities have filed similar lawsuits in recent years, but Chicago, the nations third-largest city, is one of the biggest individual municipalities to sue thus far. In 2021, the administration of then-New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) sued Exxon Mobil, Shell, BP and the API. The record of the past two decades demonstrates that the industry has achieved its goal of providing affordable, reliable American energy to U.S. consumers while substantially reducing emissions and our environmental footprint, API Senior Vice President and General Counsel Ryan Meyers said in a statement to The Hill. This ongoing, coordinated campaign to wage meritless, politicized lawsuits against a foundational American industry and its workers is nothing more than a distraction from important national conversations and an enormous waste of taxpayer resources. Climate policy is for Congress to debate and decide, not a patchwork of city halls and courts. The Shell Groups position on climate change has been a matter of public record for decades. We agree that action is needed now on climate change, and we fully support the need for society to transition to a lower-carbon future. As we supply vital energy the world needs today, we continue to reduce our emissions and help customers reduce theirs, Shell told The Hill in a statement. Addressing climate change requires a collaborative, society-wide approach. We do not believe the courtroom is the right venue to address climate change, but that smart policy from government and action from all sectors is the appropriate way to reach solutions and drive progress. Addressing climate change requires a coordinated international policy response, not meritless local litigation over lawful and essential energy production, Theodore J. Boutrous Jr. of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher, counsel for Chevron, said in a statement to The Hill. As the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit held in dismissing a similar New York City lawsuit, such a sprawling case is simply beyond the limits of state law. While we generally dont comment on pending litigation, we can say that efforts around energy and climate solutions are best addressed outside the courtroom, a spokesperson for Phillips 66 told The Hill in a statement. To that end, we believe a lower carbon future is better achieved by working collaboratively with government. Spokespeople for ConocoPhillips and BP told The Hill they would not comment on active litigation. The Hill has reached out to Exxon Mobil for comment. Updated at 1:00 p.m. ET For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. CHICAGO The city of Chicago is suing five oil and gas companies and a trade group that represents them over their role in contributing to climate change and its effects, arguing that the companies have misled the public about how the use of fossil fuels affects city residents well-being. The suit, filed Tuesday in Cook County Circuit Court, accuses BP, Chevron, Shell, ConocoPhillips, Exxon Mobil and the American Petroleum Institute of mounting a climate deception campaign about burning fossil fuels to protect their profits. Chicago is the latest in a slew of government bodies taking legal action against fossil fuel distributors over how climate change has affected cities and states. Cities in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, South Carolina and Puerto Rico have taken similar actions since 2017, according to a release from the Center for Climate Integrity. Chicago, represented by its own attorneys and lawyers from Chicago firm DiCello Levitt and San Francisco firm Sher Edling, is not seeking a specific sum from the defendants. However, it is demanding they reimburse the city on the costs incurred from climate change-related events such as infrastructure and property damage. Since 1980, Chicagoans have faced warmer winters, less ice coverage on Lake Michigan and other lakes, heat waves, a decrease in snow and more heavy rain events as well as climate change-related damage to the citys infrastructure and housing, attorneys argue. That damage has been greater in low-income communities and communities that have historically experienced racial, social, health, and economic inequities, the lawsuit reads. The suit also cited the finding that 2023 was the hottest year on record and points to predicted increases in extremely hot days. To prepare for those forecasts and other weather events, Chicago must build new infrastructure to withstand more intense weather and fix damage that has occurred: the city plans to invest almost $200 million to protect the citys most vulnerable areas from the results of climate change, the lawsuit said. Attorneys argued in the filing that the companies have known for decades that their products would produce atmospheric warming. The companies subsequent efforts to retain the widespread use of fossil fuels in spite of that knowledge drove up greenhouse gas emissions, accelerated global warming, and brought about devastating climate change impacts to the city of Chicago, the suit said. The lawsuit compares the companies advertising efforts to those of the tobacco industry in response to public health research about the effects of smoking. In parallel to the companies own marketing efforts, the suit argues that the American Petroleum Institute helped run campaigns meant to sow doubt about the causes of climate change, prolonging the use of fossil fuels and intensifying climate change to the detriment of Chicagoans. In statement, the institutes lawyer Ryan Meyers called the action meritless and an enormous waste of taxpayer resources, arguing climate policy was the domain of Congress, not cities. A case management hearing is set for June 20, according to court records. ____ Utah has no law requiring gun owners to buy a locking device when they purchase a weapon - AP A nine-year old child has been arrested for fatally shooting a family member in the head. Police were called to a home in Tooele, Utah 35 miles southwest of Salt Lake City, after being told a 32-year-old man was unconscious and bleeding from his head. The man was rushed to hospital, where he died of his injuries, Cpl Colbey Bentley of Tooele City Police Department said. Police have declined to disclose the relationship between the dead man and the child, or further details surrounding the shooting. The impact felt not just by the family but the community in general this is something thats such an outlier, Mr Bentley said. Were trying to figure out how to cope with it, and how to properly investigate it. One other person was understood to be in the house at the time. Police also declined to say whether the incident was being investigated as a homicide, although inquiries are continuing. In Utah the criminal age of responsibility is 14. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Unintentional injury is a leading cause of death among US children and adolescents aged 017 years and firearms are a leading method. About half of the incidents take place in the home. Last November a four year old girl in Florida was critically injured after being accidentally shot in the head by her sibling, whose age was not disclosed. And in January 2023 a six year old child was arrested for shooting and wounding an elementary school teacher in Virginia. It was unclear how the child got hold of the gun. In June last year a study in the scientific journal, Injury Epidemiology found that 90 per cent of accidental shooting deaths of children under 15 involved unsecured loaded guns. In the US 26 states and Washington DC have child access prevention and Safe Storage laws. Utah, however, is not one of them, according to Giffords Law Center to prevent gun violence. The state does require adults to make reasonable efforts to remove a firearm from a child, but has no law requiring gun owners to buy a locking device when they purchase a weapon. 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. Stormy Waters Things are heating up in the South China Sea after the Philippines claimed that Chinese fishermen are intentionally using cyanide to destroy the Scarborough Shoal, a tropical atoll that represents hotly disputed territory between the two nations, The Philippine Star reports. Philippines's Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), which lobbed the charge on Saturday, said damages from Chinese vessels could go over $17.8 million, the news outlet reports. "These Chinese fishermen use cyanide," said BFAR spokesman Nazario Briguera during a press conference attended by the Star. "[T]hey intentionally destroy Bajo de Masinloc [the Spanish name for the shoal] to prevent Filipino fishing boats to fish in the area." Adding a wrinkle to the narrative, GMA News reports that the Philippine Coast Guard aren't themselves certain who's responsible for using cyanide in the area. "We dont have any scientific study or any evidence that would suggest that cyanide fishing in Bajo de Masinloc can be attributed to the Chinese or the Vietnamese fishermen," Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine Coast Guard told GMA News. Fish Kill Scarborough Shoal is an atoll located about 124 miles away from the Philippines, providing an estimated 385,300 people with food and money from 275,520 metric tons of fish caught there per year. The reason it's emerged as a geopolitical flashpoint is two-fold. First, the atoll is rich with aquatic life and plentiful fishing stocks. And second, it has an inner lagoon that can shelter vessels during stormy weather, making it an ideal rest stop for boats. Cyanide fishing, which has been used by Filipino fishermen in the past in order to stun or kill fish, is an easy way to get the daily catch but the method also destroys coral reefs, which are endangered in the Philippines due to the destructive fishing method as well as climate change. "A square meter of reef is destroyed for every live fish caught using cyanide," International Marinelife Alliance (IMA) in Philippines biologist Sam Mamauag said to the Wold Wildlife Fund. The dispute over the Scarborough Shoal has been ongoing for years but we hope if there's any cyanide fishing, it's stopped immediately. There's no use in planting a flag in a dead place. More on ocean pollution: Oil Spill Pours Into the Gulf of Mexico King Xia, a Taiwanese tourist boat, was taking 23 passengers on a journey around Taiwans outlying Kinmen Islands just miles from Chinas southeastern coast when it was intercepted by two Chinese coast guard vessels. Six Chinese officers swooped onboard, checking the vessels route plan, certificate and the licenses of its 11 crew members in a forced inspection that lasted about half an hour, according to Taiwans coast guard, which said King Xia had veered toward the Chinese side of the water to avoid shoals. The unprecedented encounter with Chinese law enforcement at a time of heightened tension between Beijing and Taipei startled Taiwanese passengers onboard. Its super scary, a passenger told Taiwans United Daily News in a video upon returning to shore under the escort of a Taiwanese coast guard ship on Monday. (I was) so afraid that I wouldnt be able to come back to Taiwan. Kuan Bi-ling, head of Taiwans Ocean Affairs Council, said Tuesday the incident triggered panic among the Taiwanese public. For years, sightseeing boat tours between Kinmen and Xiamen, the closest city on the Chinese mainland, have offered Taiwanese tourists a chance to gaze at Chinas dazzling skyline without the hassle of border checks, with China operating similar tour boats for its citizens too. But now, the popular route has been caught up in rising tensions as Chinas coast guard ramps up patrols in the area in what analysts say is Beijings latest effort to tilt the status quo in its favor by undermining Taiwans control of the waters. The escalation came after two Chinese fishermen drowned last week when their speedboat capsized during a pursuit by Taiwans coast guard, who accused them of trespassing into prohibited waters around Kinmen. Beijing has blamed Taiwans ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for the deaths and seized on the opportunity to expand its presence in the waters. Since the weekend, Beijing has denied Taiwans designation of prohibited or restricted waters near Kinmen, while its coast guard has launched regular patrols in waters around the islands to step up law enforcement. On Tuesday morning, a Chinese coast guard vessel intruded into Taiwan-controlled waters near Kinmen for an hour, according to Taiwans coast guard, which said it dispatched a ship of its own to sail alongside the Chinese vessel and used radio and loudspeakers to drive it away. Ian Chong, a political scientist at the National University of Singapore, said the latest measures are part of Chinas gray zone tactics, referring to coercive or aggressive state actions that stop short of open warfare something Beijing has used increasingly in recent years in the East and South China Seas, as well as toward Taiwan. The inspection of a Taiwanese tour boat by Chinas coast guard, which Chong said had not happened before, was meant to provoke Taiwan and see if it would either escalate or accept this sort of behavior as given. (The Chinese coast guard) chose a tourist vessel because its high profile you would expect lots of people on the boat with cameras and phones, he said. Theyre trying to erode and contest Taiwans ability to administer those waters. Taiwans coast guard has said it would continue to enforce the law in waters it controls and flexibly adjust its operations to ensure the peace and security. Kuan, head of Taiwans Ocean Affairs Council, said Taiwan authorities would educate Taiwanese boat captains that they dont need to stop for Chinese coast guard inspections. In such instances, they should immediately notify the council for assistance, she said. The stakes are high, as the increased presence and closer proximity of Chinese and Taiwanese coast guard vessels raise the specter of miscalculations that could potentially spiral into open conflict. Speaking to reporters about the inspection by the Chinese coast guard, Taiwans Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-kcheng highlighted such risks, saying the defense ministry is very concerned about potential miscalculations. To avoid further escalating tensions, Taiwans military will not proactively intervene in the incident, he said. Taiwan's coast guard inspects a vessel that capsized during a chase off the coast of Kinmen on February 14, 2024. - Taiwan Coast Guard Administration/AP Early test for new president China has already increased pressure on Taiwan after Vice President Lai Ching-te, a staunch defender of Taiwanese identity and sovereignty, won the presidential election in January, handing the DPP a historic third consecutive term. Days after the election, Beijing poached one of Taipeis few remaining diplomatic allies, the Pacific Island nation of Nauru. Last month, Taiwan protested Chinas unilateral adjustment of a flight path that could result in civilian aircraft flying closer to the sensitive Taiwan Strait median line, adding pressure on Taipei in its aviation safety and aerial defense. The median line has long served as an informal demarcation between China and Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory. China does not formally recognize the existence of such a line but had largely respected it until recent years. Since then-US House-speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taipei in 2022, Chinese military jets have regularly flown over the median line as Beijing ramps up military pressure on the self-ruled democracy. Tian Feilong, a hardline legal scholar in Beijing, likened the increased patrol by the Chinese coast guard in waters around Kinmen to Chinas breakthrough of the median line following Pelosis visit. Its not only a declaration of sovereignty by Beijing, but also a gradual demonstration and establishment of a new normal in Chinas governance and law enforcement in the Taiwan Strait, Tian wrote in a commentary on guancha.cn, a nationalist Chinese news site. Chong, at the National University of Singapore, expects an increase in Beijings gray zone measures in the coming months, in the lead-up to Lais inauguration as Taiwans next president in May. (Its) an effort to test the incoming Lai administration to see if they will give any concessions or whether theyll make any mistakes that Beijing can capitalize on, he said. Such slow, incremental behavior makes it difficult to respond strongly to, but also, giving in would be in a way ceding ground to Beijing. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosts an event at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing BEIJING (Reuters) -China hopes France will continue a constructive role in developing healthy and stable Sino-European relations by enhancing mutual trust and promoting integration of interests, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. The minister, in meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, said China hopes to work together as a stabilising force in the world, according to a foreign ministry statement on Wednesday. "We are willing to work with France to uphold our original aspirations, maintain focus, deepen cooperation," Wang said. Wang also said China hopes France will create a fair and just business environment for Chinese companies there, and provide "positive, stable and long-term expectations". In a separate meeting between Wang and the French president's foreign affairs adviser, official news agency Xinhua said the two sides had in-depth communication on issues related to peace and security, and agreed that "multi-polarisation is indispensable for peace and stability". Both countries will continue to strengthen strategic coordination, and agreed to further cooperate in areas of climate change, biodiversity conservation, agricultural and food products, and clean energy, as well as nuclear energy research and development, Xinhua said. The meeting also mentioned increasing the frequency of direct flights between China and France. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Leslie Adler) A wave of political coups and a resurgence of Islamic terror groups in what is known as the Sahel region in Africa led to a marked increase in persecution of Christians. Despite threats, imprisonment, and displacement, however, Christians are holding on to their faith and the gospel is spreading. A report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has raised concerns about the deteriorating rights to religious freedom and belief in the Sahel region. The Commission has blamed the rise of violent extremist groups and weak governance structures that have led to the persecution of religious minorities, mostly Christians. The Sahel region consists of 10 countries spanning from Eritrea and Sudan in East Africa to Senegal and Mauritania in the West. Others include Nigeria, Niger, Chad, The Gambia, Mali and Burkina Faso. Violent insurgent groups such as the Islamic State Sahel Province (IS Sahel) and Katiba Macina perpetrate serious violations against religious minorities, often in the context of weak state security, notes Michael Ardovino, a Policy Analyst with the Commission. At least five of the ten countries in the region have experienced leadership disruptions in the form of military coups in recent years. Open Doors, a Christian advocacy organization that tracks and researches Christian persecution, ranks three Sahel countries Sudan, Eritrea and Nigeria among the top ten countries where Christians face the highest persecution. Sudan refugees coming to faith In Sudan, the conflict between government forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ended a fragile transitional government that was to usher in a civilian government. This was after the 2019 coup that ended President Omar al-Bashir 26-year rule. While there were signs of increasing religious freedom during the transitional government, sporadic attacks on Christians continued. Such instances included the arrest of Pastor Abdulla Suleiman of the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church, and the attack of an Evangelical Lutheran pastor during a church service in Gezira state, among others. The war has claimed over 10,000 lives and led to the displacement of some 7.6 million people. It has also seen the occupation and destruction of churches including a Coptic Monastery in Gezira and the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church in Omdurman State, which was bombed in November. Yet amidst deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions in Sudan, evangelism and conversions are being witnessed in some of the refugee camps such as the Wedwiel Refugee Camp that borders Sudan and South Sudan. According to reports, about 2,000 internally displaced people have converted from Islam to Christianity due to the outreach initiatives in some of the camps. Sudans Christian population is a minority and constitutes less than 6 percent of the countrys 45 million population. The refugee camps, however, have provided not just shelter from the conflict but also psycho-social support and an opportunity for Christians to share the gospel with one of the unreached people groups in the region. Mission Network News reported a missionary working in the refugee camps testifying that refugees from Sudan, who come from tribes that have no believers or only a handful of believers, have seen up to 40 people come to Christ in one weekThis is groundbreaking in evangelism amongst Sudanese Muslims. Eritrea meeting in home churches In neighbouring Eritrea, about 1,000 Christians have been imprisoned without being charged simply due to their faith in Jesus, according to Open Doors. Converts from Islam are particularly targeted by the authorities. Many have lost their jobs and been separated from their families while others have paid the ultimate price with their lives for refusing to renounce Jesus despite threats, abuse, imprisonment, and torture. The government only recognizes three Christian denominations; Lutheran, Catholic and Orthodox. Protestant and evangelical churches were shut down in 2002 and hundreds of pastors and their congregants detained without trial. According to a July 2023 op-ed by Todd Nettleton of Voice of the Martyrs, two pastors had already spent 7,000 days in prison. Yet the persecution of Christians in Eritrea, a country where the population between the two religions is evenly split, has not dampened the resolve of evangelical and Pentecostal communities who meet in home churches. Nigeria hope and resilience in hostile conditions Persecution of Christians in Africas biggest country by population, Nigeria, has accelerated over the recent past, fuelled by the growth of religious extremist groups especially in the North. In four months to January 2024, 100 Christians have been killed and others kidnapped by terrorists. The threat to Christians is not just coming from terror groups but also from emerging blasphemy and Sharia laws that have led to the death by mob justice of people accused of blasphemy against Islam and the Prophet Mohammed. Speaking during the US Foreign Affairs sub-committee hearing on the Future of Freedom in Nigeria on 14 February, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe told the committee members that the attacks on Christians in many parts of Nigeria are systematic, organized and brutal, mainly perpetrated by the militant Fulani terrorists. Between 2021 and 2023, over 100 priests and sisters were kidnapped; some have never returned despite the high ransom we paid for their release, said Bishop Anagbe. Despite the worsening conditions in the region, there have been embers of hope and resilience of persecuted Christians and the resolve of pastors to continue preaching the gospel and of new converts confessing Jesus as Lord in extremely hostile conditions. Nothing comes to us without the will of God. Through persecution I dont know why, but the church grows, said a pastor in Eritrea. (Bloomberg) -- Chinas two main stock exchanges vowed to tighten supervision of quantitative trading after freezing the accounts of a major fund for three days in an unusually harsh punishment. Most Read from Bloomberg The Shanghai and Shenzhen bourses will enhance monitoring of quant trading, especially leveraged products, according to statements late Tuesday. They will expand the scope of required reporting of such trades to offshore investors via the northbound mainland-to-Hong Kong stock connect and treat foreign and domestic funds the same. The pledges came after the exchanges imposed trading bans on Ningbo Lingjun Investment Management Partnership, which dumped a combined 2.57 billion yuan ($357 million) in shares within a minute Monday when indices fell rapidly. The moves mark an escalation in regulators efforts to tighten scrutiny of quant hedge funds following their rapid expansion in recent years, as officials seek to reverse a slump in stocks thats now entering a fourth year. Quant funds have sought to dispel concerns that they can amplify market volatility and fuel routs. While quant trading can help with market liquidity and price discovery, such trades have obvious technology, information and speed advantages over smaller investors and can amplify market volatilities at certain points, the exchanges said. Such transactions, especially high-frequency trading, are often regulated more strictly in overseas markets to prevent negative impact on market order, they added. Quant hedge funds use computer models to capture trading opportunities in markets from stocks to commodities. Chinese quants often seek to beat certain benchmarks by buying a group of stocks that are similar to members of the underlying indices, while so-called market-neutral strategies would also hedge such exposure by shorting stock index futures. Abnormal Trading Lingjun executed the sell orders starting from 9:30 a.m. as shares declined, disrupting normal trading order, the Shenzhen exchange said in a statement Tuesday. The Shanghai bourse imposed a similar freeze on the firm, which will be barred from trading stocks until Feb. 22. Lingjuns selling orders amounted to abnormal trading behavior, and the firm was warned multiple times for the same reason this year, according to the Shenzhen statement. The bourse will tighten supervision and maintain zero tolerance on any activities that harm investors legitimate rights, it said. Beijing-based Lingjun will resolutely comply with the bourses restrictions and learn its lesson, the company said in a statement posted on its WeChat page. The investment accounts under its management bought a net 187 million yuan in shares on Monday, it added. Lingjun has always been bullish and long on the Chinese equity market, and we are always close to full stock positions, the company said. It also pledged to ensure smooth and balanced transactions by improving its trading models and strictly controlling transaction processes. Lingjun is among the four-biggest quant funds in China, with more than 10 billion yuan under management. In addition to the regulatory curbs, a recent slump in small-cap stocks is posing fresh challenges for quants. Private quant funds suffered a 7.2% average loss in January, according to Shenzhen PaiPaiWang Investment & Management Co., underperforming the benchmark CSI 300 stock index. Read more: Quant Hedge Funds Suffer Rare Losses in China Stock Meltdown Quants models suffered a major impact in the two weeks preceding the Lunar New Year, as the market was seized in panic and lots of irrational trading ensued, Lingjun wrote in an investor letter seen by Bloomberg. As safety-seeking money piled into member stocks of CSI 500 and CSI 1000 exchange-traded funds in the week of Feb. 5, such shares rose significantly, prompting many fund managers to adjust their stock portfolios to mimic the underlying indices, it said. Such behavior caused a liquidity stampede away from shares not included in the rising gauges. Adjusted Model While Lingjun also adjusted its model and refocused its stock exposure to the top 1,800 listed companies by market value, its returns relative to benchmarks still suffered, according to the letter, dated Feb. 20. The company has upgraded its strategies over the holiday, and pledged to recoup its alpha as soon as possible. Chinas securities regulator made another move this week that underlines its resolve to shore up the nations $8.6 trillion stock market. The China Securities Regulatory Commission, led by new Chairman Wu Qing, will treat opinions, suggestions and criticism from all parties seriously and implement the pragmatic and feasible ones immediately, it said in a statement after holding a series of seminars with investors, listed companies and foreign institutions over the past two days. Quants have faced other regulatory impacts in recent weeks. Chinas commodities exchanges ended commission rebates on some programmed trades this year, and authorities barred quants from cutting stock positions on certain products earlier this month in a bid to stem the market rout. Various stimulus measures from Beijing have helped China stocks recover in recent days, though the CSI 300 Index is still down less than 1% for 2024, after dropping for three straight years. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. The race to build the next big large language model is on, and now a contender out of China has reportedly banked a major round of funding to catapult it to the front of the pack. Moonshot AI, an artificial intelligence startup founded less than a year ago building LLMs that can handle long inputs of text and data, has raised over $1 billion in a Series B round, according to multiple media reports out of China. If accurate, this latest injection of capital would value Moonshot AI at $2.5 billion -- the largest single funding round for Chinese LLM developers on public record. The startup -- which goes by YueZhiAnMian in China -- has been focused, like many in AI right now, on the development of large language models. Specifically, its unique selling point is that its working on being able to process long-form context and response, an area that has long outfoxed others in the field. Its been moving quickly to roll out its first efforts to address this. In March of last year -- to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyds The Dark Side of the Moon, founder Yang Zhilins favorite album and the inspiration for the startups name -- the startup launched with a 100 billion-parameter LLM. Then in October, Moonshot launched its first chatbot in China, Kimi, which claims to be able to support the processing of 200,000 Chinese characters in a single conversation -- allegedly eight times the length of what OpenAIs GPT-4-32K can achieve. We have contacted Yang Zhilin, the AI researcher and academic who founded Moonshot with Zhou Xinyu and Wu Yuxin, for comment and will update this post if and when he responds. Meanwhile, the reports say the funding is coming from a list of big-name investors that include a number of potentially interesting strategic partners. Co-leading the round are e-commerce giant Alibaba and HongShan -- the VC firm formerly known as Sequoia China, according to South China Morning Post. Others in the round included Chinese super app Meituan and Xiaohongshu (sometimes called Chinas answer to Instagram), according to Chinese tech blog LatePost. (Bloomberg reported a week after the funding news first emerged that Alibaba led the $1 billion round with Monolith Management participating.) Moonshot previously raised $200 million from HongShan and Zhen Fund in a round that valued it at $300 million, according to PitchBook Data. HongShan, contacted for comment, declined to comment on the reports. Alibaba has not responded to a request for comment. We also separately reached out to Moonshot. If accurate, HongShans involvement here would be notable. Sequoia Capital formally announced last year that it would split off its Asian operations in India and China amid rising geopolitical tensions. That process is due finally to be completed by March 24. But in the meantime, the China operation has come under scrutiny from the U.S. government for its AI deals in the U.S.; and the U.S. firm is equally being probed for ongoing activity in China. Given all this, its no surprise that the once high-profile investor may be laying low here. Significantly, the rest of the investor list thats been reported is a veritable whos who of household tech names. This underscores the ongoing retreat -- or at least pause -- among financial investors into promising Chinese startups, especially those out of the West and doing deals in U.S. dollars. But it also points to how -- just as we have seen play out in the U.S., with companies like Microsoft, Google and Amazon ploughing billions of dollars into LLM startups like OpenAI and Anthropic -- big tech companies in China are scrambling for what might be their big AI play in the months and years ahead. Having a financial foothold in a handful of promising hopefuls is one way to shortcut, or augment, whatever they may be trying to build in-house. OpenAI rules the roost right now in the U.S. and arguably everywhere else that it has expanded, but in China there is no anointed leader, so a lot of the investment activity feels like it is about spreading bets. Alibaba, to that end, is also an investor in Baichuan -- founded by Xiaochuan Wang, a pioneer in the search engine space, which raised $350 million by the end of last year, passing a $1 billion valuation in the process -- as well as Zhipu AI, another LLM upstart, and 01.AI, the LLM company founded by Kai-Fu Lee. Alibabas archrival Tencent meanwhile has backed Baichuan, Zhipu, MiniMax and Light Years Beyond. Make no mistake: Chinas internet giants have replaced those western-money VCs in backing the countrys LLM contenders. All the same, if $1 billion sounds like an awful lot of money to hand over to a startup that is less than a year old, one of the reasons big names might be willing to take big bets is because of the pedigree. Pink Floyd fan turned AI trailblazer Yang Zhilin had a long list of achievements to his credit even before starting Moonshot. He holds a computer science PhD from Carnegie Mellon University, where he was advised by Ruslan Salakhutdinov, who previously headed up AI research at Apple after the iPhone maker quietly acquired a startup he founded called Perceptual Machines -- an acquisition that seems never to have been reported but is noted in the professors LinkedIn profile and professional timeline. Prior to that, he studied at Tsinghua University, advised by Jie Tang. Hes also worked at Google Brain and Meta AI. Yang also has another AI startup in the works, Recurrent.AI, which appears to be focused specifically on technologies built to help salespeople to their jobs better (with features that sound not dissimilar to say, Gong.AI). As of 2021, Recurrent had raised some $60 million according to PitchBook. And while there hasnt been much capital activity since then, the business does appear to remain operational. Importantly for Moonshot, Yang was also a key author of Transformer-XL, a key development in LLM architecture for enabling natural language understanding beyond a fixed-length context, something that has played a significant role in the development of Moonshots platform and, arguably, wider mission. Moonshots focus on longer input and output and producing more accurate results for queries involving this lays the groundwork for the company to target text-based use cases that havent been widely tapped by existing LLMs and generative AI applications, such as legal documents, fiction writing and deeper financial analysis. Kimi Chat is trained on information up to January 2024, the chatbot says. Its not the only Chinese player working to remove the limits of long context. Baichuan back in October announced its Baichuan2-192K model, which is said to process around 350,000 Chinese characters in one context window. The market for fundraising remains constrained globally, but this round speaks to the willingness of those with deep pockets jump in, when the right opportunities come up. Yet even with the wider, global AI frenzy -- where some $200 billion is set to be invested by 2025, forecasts Goldman Sachs -- the funding landscape in China is surprisingly tepid. In 2023, China recorded around 232 investments in the AI space, a 38% decline year-over-year, according to research firm CBInsight. The total amount raised by Chinas AI firms amounted to roughly $2 billion, 70% less than the year before. A dramatic increase in Chinese illegal immigration is on track to break records at the southern border, with apprehensions from the communist country in one sector alone already eclipsing fiscal 2021 in just a few days. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) sources tell Fox News that between Saturday and Monday there were 452 Chinese nationals apprehended by Border Patrol in the San Diego Sector alone. Thats more than the 450 apprehended in fiscal 2021 altogether across the entire southwest border. The number of Chinese nationals has been increasing since fiscal 2021. In fiscal 2022, numbers increased to more than 2,000 border-wide. In fiscal 2023, that number then surged to more than 24,314. CHINESE MIGRANTS POURING ACROSS SOUTHERN BORDER SPARK NATIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS Chinese migrants attempting to cross into the U.S. from Mexico are detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the border on Nov. 11, 2023, in Jacumba, California. So far in fiscal 2024, which began in October, there have been more than 18,750 encounters by the end of January, meaning that the fiscal year is already on track to exceed last years numbers. There were nearly 6,000 encounters in December alone. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The increase in migration from China is an indicator of how global the U.S. border crisis has become. Officials previously said they have encountered migrants from more than 150 countries. Fox News witnessed migrants from countries including Brazil, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ecuador and China crossing into the U.S. at San Diego this week. Chinese nationals have quickly become the fastest-growing demographic entering the country illegally. Some officials and Republican lawmakers have raised concerns that single adults entering from the geopolitical rival could pose a national security threat. Chinese migrants speak to a Border Patrol officer before being processed after they crossed the Rio Grande into the U.S. on May 5, 2022, in Roma, Texas. Brandon Judd, the president of the National Border Patrol Council, which represents all rank-and-file Border Patrol agents nationwide, told Fox News last week that the majority of the Chinese border crossers are single adult males of military age. INFLUX OF ILLEGAL CHINESE MIGRANTS THREATENS US TERRITORY; ISLAND MUST SHOW 'STRENGTH OF THE NATION' "That is a very scary prospect. We know that China does not like us, we know that we are in the crosshairs of China," Judd said. "And they are exporting so many people to our country, and you have to really fear about that." "There have been numerous documented instances of Chinese nationals, at the direction of the CCP, engaging in espionage, stealing military and economic secrets," a group of Republican senators warned last year. Hundreds of migrants, predominantly from Venezuela, cross the Rio Grande on Dec. 5, 2023. The Republican-held House impeached DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for his handling of the migrant crisis. The articles of impeachment now go to the Senate for a trial. Overall, there have been more than 961,000 migrant encounters this fiscal year after a record-setting 2.4 million in fiscal 2023. December saw a record 301,000 encounters, followed by a sharp drop to 176,000 in January. Fox News' Aubrie Spady and Michael Dorgan contributed to this report. Original article source: Chinese illegal immigration on pace to break records at US southern border MEMPHIS, Tenn. A proposal to grant elected Memphis City Council members healthcare benefits until age 65 after they serve two terms was voted down Tuesday. Eleven council members present voted no and one abstained. It was the third and final vote on the proposal. Several residents and city employees spoke out against the proposal, sometimes tearfully describing how they couldnt afford their own health insurance. Council member Pearl Eva Walker blamed the media for incorrect information that had circulated in the public, namely that the benefits would be for a lifetime. Download the WREG App today and stay up to date with breaking news and weather. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South. But others said that distinction didnt matter to voters. For me personally, it doesnt matter whether the benefit would last two years or it would cost $2,000 or $2 million, council member Jerri Green said. The point is, its a benefit for me and not for my community, and that is not why I ran for this office. Council member Chase Carlisle said hed received thousands of emails on the proposed benefits, and he didnt think anyone in the city supported elected leaders giving themselves health insurance. If you feel so strongly about it, then we can make this a referendum question and put a vote to the public, which I assure you would go down in flames, he told fellow council members. City HR director Fonda Fouchee told the council the proposal would cost the city some $76,000 a year. That amount would increase each year and could be more for those with high claims. Former council member Martavious Jones, who proposed the benefits in his final days on council, addressed the current council and said his intention was for the previous council to approve it in December. City Council to police: Street takeovers must stop The third and final vote, however, was placed on the current councils agenda. Jones apologized to them but said he had to get the wording right first. We didnt want it to be a lifetime. We didnt want it to be perceived that it was a free benefit, Jones said. Nashville discontinued its benefits for elected officials this year after the cost increased to $1.2 million, Fouchee said. Jones said Nashville was a poor comparison for Memphis because they have more council members. In Memphis, only 60 council members would be eligible between now and 2060. He also said nothing would require council members to participate in the program. Most voters, he said, were more interested in other issues than in health benefits for council members. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) The City of Madison has announced that a second baby has been surrendered to the city through its new baby box. The city announced Wednesday that Madison Fire and Rescue received a second infant through the Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 1. According to the city, after proper assessment and care by the fire departments team, the infant was transferred to Madison Hospital by HEMSI for further evaluation. After 35 years behind the mic, Eli Gold not returning to call Alabama football games The Alabama Department of Human Resources has been notified and agencies are working for the best interest of the child, the city said. No further information is available at this time. The city said it will continue to provide emergency response to every infant placed in the Safe Haven Baby Box. Resources for mothers in crisis are available through the Safe Haven Organizations hotline at 1-866-99BABY1. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. The bruised body of a Ukrainian priest who was detained by Russian occupation forces turned up on a village street on Thursday (Feb. 15), with an unconfirmed report of a bullet wound to the head, according to watchdog group Forum 18. The Rev. Stepan Podolchak, 59, of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, disappeared on Feb. 13 in the Ukrainian village of Kalanchak after Russian occupation forces took him away for questioning in his bare feet with a bag over his head. The priest had chosen to remain with his church after Russians invaded the village in southern Skadovsk District of Kherson Region in early 2022. Podolchaks battered body was taken to the morgue after a passer-by found it, and a morgue staff member phoned his shocked wife to ask her to identify it. His family buried the priests body in Kalanchak on Sunday (Feb. 18). Today it became known that the occupiers tortured the brightest person I was lucky enough to meet in my life! noted an official from the Kalanchak village military administration in a Facebook post, now operating from Ukrainian-held territory, as reported by the Kyiv Independent. Stepan Yaroslavovych Podolchak. Faithful to God, pure in soul, honest and fair! Like an angel who came down to Earth! It is impossible to believe and we will never forgive! The Rev. Nikodim Kulygin, bishop of the Orthodox Church of Ukraines Kherson and Tavria Diocese, accused occupation forces of torturing Podolchak to death, according to Forum 18. Serhy Danilov, a Kyiv-based anthropologist who supports civil society projects in Kherson, told Forum 18 that responsibility for the priests disappearance lay with the Russian Interior Ministrys Centre for Countering Extremism. He said Podolchak may have faced incarceration in a detention center in the rural settlement of Chaplinka. Podolchaks body showed bruising and indicated he was handcuffed, Danilov told Forum 18. Fr. Stepan was someone who felt he couldnt abandon his people, Danilov reportedly said. The [Russian] police and FSB repeatedly pressured Fr. Stepan to move to the Moscow Patriarchate. He told them he couldnt betray his oath and community. Unconfirmed reports claimed a bullet wound in the head caused the priests death, but the death certificate given to the family stated he died from a heart attack. Svitlana Fomina, head of the Kalanchak village military administration, believes the priest also suffered torture. The Russians tortured him to death, Fomina told the Kyiv-based Centre for Journalistic Investigations. He was always pro-Ukrainian, conducted all services in Ukrainian, prayed for Ukraine, even under occupation. Apparently, because of this, the Russians took away the most valuable thing that a person has life. Forum 18 contacted Russian police in Kalanchak on Monday (Feb. 19) to ask for details of the murder investigation. The unnamed duty officer put the phone down after responding, For a long time this [community] hasnt existed here and wont. Forget about it. An official at the Russian Investigative Committee of Kherson Region also refused to answer Forum 18s questions about the death. Fill in the form on our website, he said. We will respond within the required 30 days. Forum 18 had asked if an investigation has begun, if a criminal case has opened and whether any arrests were made, via the recommended website. Podolchak led church services in a half-built construction at the Church of All the Holy Lands in Kalanchak after Russian officials banned his church fellowship from using a rented room in Kalanchaks House of Culture following the invasion in Spring 2022. Fr. Stepan had built the walls and was trying to complete the building, Danilov informed Forum 18. The priest and his wife had both children and grandchildren. Originally from Lviv Region in western Ukraine, Podolchak became a priest in 1998 and served the people of Kalanchak for 10 years. The killing of Podolchak is the latest incident affecting Christian ministers in the Ukrainian war zone. Forum 18 notes that Russian occupiers oppose the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and any religious communities with headquarters in Ukrainian government-held areas. Podolchak faced ongoing pressure to transfer his priesthood from the Orthodox Church of Ukraine to the Moscow Patriarchate Russian Orthodox Church before his death. He refused to comply. The [Russian] police and FSB repeatedly pressured Fr. Stepan to move to the Moscow Patriarchate, Danilov said to Forum 18. He told them he couldnt betray his oath and community. Russia is obliged to arrest any person suspected of committing torture under its obligations to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. This includes an obligation to try such suspects under criminal law, making these offenses punishable by appropriate penalties which take into account their grave nature. Forum 18 stated that this requirement is routinely ignored by Russian authorities, including when torture is reported within the countrys own internationally recognized borders. Another report by Forum 18 said that a Greek Catholic priest seized from the city of Berdyansk in Ukraine on Nov. 22 is in Russia after an illegal transfer. The Rev. Ivan Levytsky is held in Rostov Region, according to Evhen Zakharov of the Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group. His colleague and fellow priest, The Rev. Bohdan Heleta, is still held in Crimea, occupied by Russia. The priests still face alleged criminal charges concerning weapons and explosives supposedly found by occupation forces. Both men are denied contact with their families. Whenever the latest television show starring Latinos as something other than narcos, maids or immigrants you know, as just regular people gets canceled, I think of Chris Rock. In 2014, my all-time favorite stand-up comic wrote an essay for the Hollywood Reporter that remains one of the best Tinseltown take-downs I've ever read. He attacked the lack of diversity in film and television, calling it a white industry that wouldnt take chances on young Black comics and still categorized successful Black-led projects as niche efforts instead of the mainstream hits they were. Rock fired his most ruthless critique, however, at the industry's lack of Latinos in a city where we're nearly half the population. Read more: A brutally honest history of Latinos in Hollywood Youre in L.A., he wrote, youve got to try not to hire Mexicans. Rock went on to describe Los Angeles as a slave state where theres an acceptance that Mexicans are going to take care of white people that doesnt exist anywhere else. The essay holds up a decade later, even as diversity has increased in Hollywood. Black creatives such as Taraji P. Henson, Michael B. Jordan and Quinta Brunson have starred in critical and commercial smashes that highlighted their talents in front of and behind the camera. Asian American advocacy groups campaigned to ensure that productions like Fresh Off the Boat and Crazy Rich Asians started strong. And still, not enough Latinos have gotten there not for a lack of trying, either from them or the industry Rock decried. Since Rock's piece, a run of television shows has depicted Southern California Latino stories that have rarely earned Hollywoods attention. East Los High, which aired on Hulu from 2013 to 2017, was a typical high school soap opera that just happened to take place in East L.A. Netflix streamed two similar teen tales: On My Block was set on a fictional campus in South L.A. (and spawned its own spinoff, "Freeridge"), while Mr. Iglesias chose the real-life Wilson High in Long Beach for its chuckles, with Rock's comic contemporary, Gabriel Iglesias, in the title role. Two other shows, Vida and Gentefied," depicted the clashes over gentrification on the Eastside. Meanwhile, a reboot of the Norman Lear sitcom One Day at a Time told the story of a multigenerational Cuban American family in Echo Park. Rounding out the slate was This Fool, a Hulu comedy about working-class South L.A. Each series did a great job depicting the sections of the city and the communities they sought to represent. They won devoted fan bases. All shared the same, sad fate: low ratings that led to cancellation, with This Fool getting the ax last week. Its untimely end brought the same reaction as previous cancellations disappointment, hashtags (share #savethisfool with your homies, por favor) and, especially, anger that Hollywood still doesnt have enough shows starring Latinos and doesn't seem to back the few that get made. Those reactions are understandable, even righteous. Yet the guiltiest parties always seem to get a pass: the people, especially Latinos, who aren't watching. Shows with diverse casts tend to get higher ratings, and Latinos like to see themselves on television, according to data compiled in UCLAs Entertainment and Media Research Initiative annual Hollywood diversity report. The rub is how those shows depict Latino life, and how dedicated Latinos are to supporting programs that center them. Read more: Hollywood's Latino culture gap: How new and veteran creators are working to reverse a brutal history The only Latino-themed shows to rank among the top 10 most-watched programs for a non-Latino ethnic group in six years of the UCLA study were the narco-drama Queen of the South and On the Block" both favorites among Black viewers. The only Latino-themed show that appeared on the top 10 most-watched list more than once for Latinos was FXs overwrought motorcycle gang drama Mayans M.C. If we cant support our own work, how can we expect others to do the same? The UCLA reports go up only to the 2021-22 season, so it's not clear if "This Fool" gained a significant following among Latinos or other viewers. Its abrupt end, though, says enough and it's a shame that more people didn't watch. Stand-up comedian and show co-creator Chris Estrada played Julio Lopez, an uptight Mexican American millennial who takes in his formerly incarcerated cousin (a scene-stealing Frankie Quinones). Estrada is a South L.A. native, so his depiction of the area comes off as an "In Living Color" sketch made with love. A scene from "This Fool," starring Chris Estrada (right) and Frankie Quinones (center) (Martina Ibanez-Baldor / Los Angeles Times; Hulu; Getty Images ) The first season was a parody of Homeboy Industries, down to reimagining founder Father Gregory Boyle as a foul-mouthed Unitarian Universalist minister played by Michael Imperioli. The second season took aim at hipster coffee shops, palm trees (People think they make the neighborhood look nice, Estradas Black neighbor snaps when a dried-out frond nearly falls on him. But theyre killing us.), the billionaire vultures colonizing the Southlands desert communities, relations between Black and Latino residents, and car chases. The entitled culture of the LAPD gets ridiculed, too: in one episode, officers prolong a standoff so they can earn overtime, while the rookie cop a Latino who wants to save the hostages gets ostracized. As good as the other L.A. Latino-centric shows were, "This Fool" sounded and felt like the city in a way they didn't. The Spanish is paisa countrified while the English has the tough tone of someone who grew up off Vermont Avenue. In the vein of Lear's 1970s blue-collar comedies, it hailed the protagonists' common sense while not shying away from their struggles. Everyone was hustling to make it, from the homeless man who thinks he's James Bond to the elderly woman selling flowers next to him. Characters take overcrowded buses to low-paying jobs, or wake up to the neighborhood rooster crowing at the break of dawn. The Los Angeles depicted in "This Fool" was a rough-hewed paradise. The soundtrack ranged from rock en espanol to oldies-but-goodies to ska, hardcore punk, ranchera, and of course Randy Newmans I Love L.A., but this time cruising down Slauson Avenue instead of Santa Monica Boulevard. America doesnt mind a hyper-local TV series starring people of color. Reservation Dogs and Insecure, Issa Raes own ode to South L.A., became critical and ratings darlings because of cultural and regional specificity. So why didn't that happen with "This Fool" and kindred shows about Latino L.A.? Read more: Latinx Files: Why I'm writing about 'This Fool' again The most-watched programs among Latinos on broadcast, cable and digital platforms in the 2021-22 season were Chicago P.D., When Calls the Heart and Stranger Things, according to the latest UCLA report a Windy City procedural, a drama set in frontier-era Canada and a supernatural thriller. If I were a studio executive looking to grab more Latino viewers, my takeaway would be that they will watch anything but their own day-to-day lives. Estrada is a nice guy who was the guest judge at my annual KCRW Tortilla Tournament (no payment was exchanged, only tortillas). He and others who've poured so much time and care into their Hollywood projects are too polite to criticize viewers from their own community who didn't show up for them. I'm not. Hey, foos: The next time a Latino show premieres, tune in. When it gets canceled because not enough of you did, don't blame Hollywood. Blame ourselves. 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Need a laugh? Youre in luck, because the Emmy and Grammy-nominated comedian Bill Burr is making his way to Portland this week. The comedy icon is best known for his several Netflix specials as well as his recent film, Old Dads, and his animated series, F Is For Family, starring himself, Laura Dern, Justin Long and Sam Rockwell. He is also the host of the Monday Morning Podcast. Former Battle Ground bank manager sentenced for stealing from senior customers The stand-up set is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22 at the Moda Center. Tickets can be found on the Ticketmaster website. The Rose Quarter website describes Burr as a singular voice of his generation, defining his own path as a world-renown comedian, director/writer/producer/star of a #1 film on Netflix, critically-acclaimed dramatic and comedic actor, writer, producer, and a genre-defining podcaster for over 15 years. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. A Commons debate on calls for a ceasefire in Gaza descended into chaos, after the Speaker was accused of allowing it to be "hijacked" by Labour. Sir Lindsay Hoyle sparked fury from the SNP and Conservatives when he broke with convention to allow a vote on a Labour motion for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire". The Speaker later apologised, saying he had acted "with the right intentions". But the SNP said they had been "treated with complete and utter contempt". Labour's amendment went through to loud shouts of "aye" without a formal vote, after the government said it would not take part in protest. This meant there was no vote on the SNP's motion, which called for an "immediate ceasefire", and was originally meant to be the focus of the debate. The government does not have to adopt Labour's position as the vote is not binding. In extraordinary scenes, SNP MPs and some Tories walked out of the chamber over the Speaker's handling of the vote. Following calls for him to return to explain his decision, Sir Lindsay told the Commons he chose to allow a vote on the Labour motion so MPs could express their view on "the widest range of propositions". Amid shouts of resign, he said: "I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologise for how it's ended up. "I do take responsibility for my actions, and that's why I want to meet with the key players who have been involved." SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said whilst he acknowledged the Speaker's apology, Commons officials had warned the decision could lead to his party not having a vote, on a day which had been designated an SNP opposition day. Visibly furious, he said his party had been treated "with complete and utter contempt". "I will take significant convincing that your position is not now intolerable," he added. In a statement after the debate, Mr Flynn said it was "a disgrace that Sir Keir Starmer and the Speaker colluded to block Parliament voting on the SNP motion". "This should have been the chance for the UK Parliament to do the right thing and vote for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel - instead it turned into a Westminster circus," he added. Sir Lindsay returned to the chamber to apologise to MPs It came after Commons leader Penny Mordaunt said Sir Lindsay had "undermined the confidence" of the House and suggested his decision had allowed the debate to be "hijacked" by Labour. She said this had "has raised temperatures in this House on an issue where feelings are already running high". Earlier, a source close to the Speaker said the suggestion he was pressurised was "absolutely untrue". Sir Keir accused the Conservatives and SNP of "choosing political games over serious solutions". "Today was a chance for Parliament to unite and speak with one voice on the horrendous situation in Gaza and Israel," he said in a statement following the debate. Sir Lindsay was first elected as a Labour MP but after becoming Speaker he relinquished his party affiliation, as is the convention. While he said he would meet key MPs from the main parties to discuss what happened, intense pressure remains on the Speaker. More than 30 Tory and SNP MPs have declared they have no confidence in him by signing an early day motion. Very few early day motions are debated but they allow MPs to show their support for an issue. The debate took place as thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in Parliament Square. Throughout the day, a long queue had formed outside the Commons, with protesters hoping to lobby MPs in person to support a ceasefire. Sir Lindsay's decision meant Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer avoided another potential rebellion over the party's position on Gaza as Labour MPs were able to show their support for a ceasefire without voting for an SNP motion. The motion went further than Labour's by calling for an end to the "collective punishment of the Palestinian people". Labour's shadow foreign secretary David Lammy also argued it did not "lay out a path to a sustainable peace" and "appears to be one-sided". "For any ceasefire to work it must by necessity be observed by all sides," he added. Labour's own amendment noted that Israel "cannot be expected to cease fighting if Hamas continues with violence" and called for a diplomatic process to deliver "a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state". Last November Sir Keir suffered a major revolt when 56 of his MPs, including 10 frontbenchers, defied him to back an SNP motion urging an immediate ceasefire. Earlier this week, Labour shifted its position to call for "an immediate humanitarian ceasefire", following months of pressure from backbenchers and activists. The government is calling for "an immediate humanitarian pause", as well as supporting moves towards a "permanent sustainable ceasefire". Israel launched its operations in Gaza following an attack by Hamas on southern Israel on 7 October, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 240 others taken hostage. Since then, Israel's military campaign has killed more than 29,000 people in Gaza, according to the Palestinian territory's Hamas-run health ministry. CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice announced that Communities In Schools (CIS) is now fully functional in all 55 counties across West Virginia. West Virginia Senate passes PEIA drug price reform bill Nicholas and Pleasants counties were the final additions to the Communities In Schools program. Investing in our children is the best investment we can make in West Virginias future. That is why Im so incredibly proud to see Communities In Schools reach every corner of our state. From one county when I took office to all 55 today is a testament to the incredible teamwork of our dedicated site coordinators, educators, families, the Department of Education, the Legislature, and all our community partners. Governor Jim Justice I am so happy to witness the expansion of Communities In Schools to every corner of our beautiful state. This program has the power to transform lives by providing the needed support to our students. An enormous amount of credit is due to all our site coordinators who are our boots on the ground, as they play a pivotal role in identifying, connecting with, and helping the students who need the extra boost in academics and all-around basic needs. First Lady Cathy Justice Communities In Schools was started by First Lady Cathy Justice in 2018. Initially the program focused on three counties, which were Berkeley, McDowell, and Wyoming. These three counties helped the program flourish and spread to the other counties. CIS helps to bring community partnerships together to bring more resources into the schools. Communities In Schools has had a life-changing impact on thousands of students in our state. The relationships between site coordinators, schools, students, and families are at the core of this success. These students need support and structures that help them recover from setbacks and regain the confidence to believe they can do great things. Communities In Schools is essential to opening options and pathways for those needing hope and a vision for their future. Michele L. Blatt, West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools The expansion of this program is significant for Education in West Virginia. As this program continues to be successful and flourish throughout the state, it will make a life long impact and help West Virginia become more educated, while shaping the lives of young individuals who want to become prosperous and successful in their education journey. Grants approved for demolition of old buildings in Raleigh County To learn more about Communities In Schools West Virginia, click here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. ILLINOIS (WCIA) The Illinois Office of Comptrollers website now features a portal that shows spending related to the states influx of asylum seekers. Since November 2023, more than $31 million in expenditures for asylum seekers has been reported in Illinois. The portal site displays a list of individual spendings and related information, including vendors names, which agency paid them, which state fund the money came from, contract information, and the total amount paid. While the state is incurring expenses that, frankly, should be paid by the federal government, I want to make sure that taxpayers know exactly what the state is spending money on when it comes to the arrival and care of asylum seekers, Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza said. Curran says Pritzker must correct course in upcoming budget address State officials clarified that certain expenditures, such as benefits for homeless populations, may not be listed on the website even though they may involve migrants. This is because those spendings are not specifically directed at the migrant population. However, the newly-provided list includes all spending aimed toward asylum seekers, as reported by state agencies. Governor J.B. Pritzker announced last week that he is putting $182 million towards accommodating the migrants. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle is also putting $70 million in county funds towards the effort. I encourage Cook County and the city of Chicago to offer similar portals showing their spending on this important issue, Mendoza said. We especially urge the federal government, which should bear the entirety of the responsibility for this issue, to disclose all its spending. The new portal can be found at https://illinoiscomptroller.gov/asylum-seekers. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. An organisation supporting Ukrainians who fled to the UK after the outbreak of war with Russia is appealing to the UK government to give them more ways to stay long-term. The government recently announced a visa extension programme for Ukrainians, but it only offers an extra 18 months. The Sanctuary Foundation, which works closely with churches to provide support for refugees, said this "falls short of the stability that Ukrainians need to rebuild their lives". It is asking the government to offer more long-term visas and opportunities for Indefinite Leave to Remain. February 24 marks the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, but there is still no end in sight to the war. A survey by the Sanctuary Foundation found that most Ukrainians have received a warm welcome in the UK (93%), and around two thirds said they would definitely or probably like to remain in the UK - up considerably from the 30 per cent who said the same just a year ago. There have been other changes too since the Sanctuary Foundation last surveyed Ukrainian refugees when two thirds were still living with host families. Now the number is below 30 per cent and many are working full time. The Sanctuary Foundation said the figures suggest that fewer Ukrainians are planning to return to Ukraine as time goes by. Krish Kandiah, founder of the Sanctuary Foundation, is calling for more long-term clarity for Ukrainians living in the UK. "Two years after the war began, the Ukrainian people continue to show incredible ongoing courage standing up to Russian tyranny," he said. "It has been inspiring to see the hospitality of the UK public towards our dear Ukrainian friends. Our survey shows just how welcome Ukrainians feel here amongst us. "With all that is going on in the world, we must continue to support Ukrainian refugees in the UK." Originally published by Christian Today FILE - This Jan. 15, 2020, image taken from dashboard camera video released by the Connecticut State Police, shows Trooper Brian North, left, after he discharged his weapon beside a vehicle stopped in West Haven, Conn. Jury selection is scheduled to begin Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in North's trial. North has pleaded not guilty to first-degree manslaughter with a firearm in the death of Mubarak Soulemane in West Haven. (Connecticut State Police via AP, File) A Connecticut state trooper who killed a 19-year-old man while firing seven gunshots into a stopped car in 2020 is set to stand trial for manslaughter. Jury selection began Wednesday in the trial of Trooper Brian North. North has pleaded not guilty to first-degree manslaughter with a firearm in the death of Mubarak Soulemane in West Haven. A six-person jury is tentatively scheduled to begin hearing evidence on March 4. Soulemane had stolen a ride-sharing car and led officers on a high-speed chase on Interstate 95 before North opened fire into the drivers window at close range on the evening of Jan. 15, 2020, according to authorities. North told investigators he fired because Soulemane had a knife and appeared to be readying to attack other officers on the other side of the car. But Inspector General Robert Devlin, whose office investigates all uses of deadly force by police in Connecticut, concluded the shooting was not justified. At the time Trooper North fired his weapon, neither he nor any other person was in imminent danger of serious injury or death from a knife attack at the hands of Soulemane, Devlin wrote in a report. Further, any belief that persons were in such danger was not reasonable. Devlin, a former state judge, decided to charge North despite noting in his report that two experts consulted by a previous prosecutor who investigated the shooting concluded North was justified in opening fire. Soulemanes family, the NAACP and other groups said North, who is white, should not have shot Soulemane, who was Black, because police had him surrounded and he could not get away. Despite having a knife, Soulemane was inside the car by himself and police should have attempted to de-escalate the situation, they said. After four years, the family is eager for the criminal trial to finally get underway, Mark Arons, a lawyer for Soulemane's family, said in a statement. Soulemanes mother, Omo Mohammed, has said she wants to see North convicted and sent to prison. She is suing North and other officers. The inspector general's office, through a spokesperson, declined to comment on the upcoming trial and referred to Devlin's report. North's lawyer did not return a message seeking comment. Soulemane was a community college student who had schizophrenia, his family said. On the day of the shooting, Soulemane, whose mental health appeared to have deteriorated in the days before he was killed, tried unsuccessfully to steal a cellphone from a store in Norwalk and fled in a car he stole from a Lyft driver, Devlins report said. Soulemane led police on a chase of nearly 30 miles (48 kilometers) from Norwalk to West Haven that reached speeds of 100 mph (161 kph) on Interstate 95, the report said. In West Haven, state police said Soulemane took an exit, rear-ended a civilians vehicle and was immediately boxed in by police. Police said the officers ordered him out of the car, but he refused. State police body camera videos show a West Haven officer smashing out the passenger door window of the stolen car before another trooper shoots Soulemane with a stun gun, which didnt work. North then fired his handgun seven times through the drivers door window when Soulemane displayed the knife, state police said. After being charged in 2022, North was placed on paid administrative leave and his police powers were suspended. The state police union has said it disagrees with Devlin's decision to prosecute North, saying North was trying to protect the other officers. A proposed Georgia law dictating that even private schools cant teach students about gender identity or queer theory without parental approval is dividing conservatives and school choice advocates. While Republicans often tout private schools as a way to help keep the government out of a childs education, they have also been leading the charge in restricting the ways gender can be taught in public schools. Now, they are targeting private ones too in a move that could split support. I think that this is a major overreach. One of the most basic benefits of choice in education and especially of just being able to choose a private school is people with different values can choose schools based on the policies they have, and those policies can be different, said Neal McCluskey, director of the Cato Institutes Center for Educational Freedom. Georgia Senate Bill 88, which last week cleared committee and is heading to the full chamber, would require private schools to provide permission slips to parents before addressing issues of gender identity, queer theory, gender ideology, or gender transition. We have been working on this bill for 3 years. We have worked with and accepted changes from multiple groups. We took their concerns to heart, and we did not say NO to one group who came to us, state Sen. Carden Summers (R) said in an email to The Hill. We have worked in earnest to make this bill fair while still achieving our goal of making sure childrens parents are involved in these sensitive and often life changing issues. This is a Transparency bill nothing more, Summers added. The measure comes as Republicans in recent years have increasingly sought to make it easier for students to attend private schools, seeing them as a way to allow parents more choice over lesson plans and curricula. In the past two years, more than a dozen red or red-leaning states have expanded education saving accounts that make it easier for parents to choose private or homeschooling options for their students. At the same time time, states have passed laws banning the teaching of gender identity for certain ages in public schools. But combining the issues under one umbrella shows the differences between advocates on the two topics, according to Jon Valant, director of the Brown Center on Education Policy at the Brookings Institution. Theres a group that is kind of private school choice advocates, and theres a group of what I would call cultural warriors, and they dont always see eye-to-eye on all these issues, Valant said. I think what were seeing there is a conflict between that desire from one group to sort of keep government out of private schools and the conflict between that and the more cultural warrior segment of the conservatives in education right now who really arent as concerned about policy as they are about politics, he added. And so I think this particular bill has sort of brought that conflict and like that distinction between those two segments of that party into view. Both issues fall under the traditional GOP umbrella of parental rights, which legislators have said focuses on transparency in schools and what children are taught. But the bill in Georgia, opponents argue, is limiting the exact parental rights that Republicans have been fighting for. The legislation misses that some parents may think that thats the right atmosphere for their kids, [an atmosphere] where there is 100 percent trust in adults in the school and when a student tells something it wont be shared with a parent so that student will feel more free to share things that theyre struggling with, McCluskey said. If a school has a policy that doesnt share with parents or policy that it wont share what their children say about their sexuality, parents freely choose that school, especially if they know that policy, McCluskey said, arguing the move would reduce parental rights. Jonathan Butcher, the Will Skillman Senior Research Fellow in Education Policy at The Heritage Foundation, says parents should be and voters should be wary of state lawmakers looking to enact additional regulations on private schools. It is also true, though, that this issue of teaching young children especially the idea that someone can choose their gender is of great concern, Butcher said, adding that what is appropriate to legislate is medical notification. Under Georgia House Bill 1045, educators in private schools would not be allowed to tell students to withhold information about their gender from their parents or withhold information themselves about a students gender from the childs parents. Anyone who has the responsibility over the care of a child, Butcher said, should keep the parent informed about anything related to a childs medical status. I would argue even consent obtained from parents would be needed before a child is addressed by a name or a pronoun that doesnt correspond with their birth certificate, he added. Experts say both bills currently are unlikely to get replicated in other states, and that even efforts to do so would face general pushback. You have clear opposition from Democrats across the board to anything that looks like this because, again, of that targeting of LGBTQ+ students, and then throw in the mix there that I think youre going to have a lot of Republican opposition and a lot of places just based on concerns about regulation. I would be surprised if this became a popular state policy. Now if it does, I think its extremely concerning, Valant said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A courtroom sketch of former JEA CEO Aaron Zahn (far left) and CFO Ryan Wannemacher (far right). The trial of former JEA leaders Aaron Zahn and Ryan Wannemacher is the latest milestone in a saga that rocked the city of Jacksonville. Here is a timeline of key events that unfolded during the time Zahn served as CEO and Wannemacher was chief financial officer and the ensuing investigations into what happened at the city-owned utility. JEA board hires Aaron Zahn as CEO Zahn was a surprise choice by the JEA board for interim CEO in April 2018. He had been on the board for only a couple of months when he stepped down from it and applied to be CEO. JEA had just gone through a bruising consideration of whether it should pursue privatization of the utility. That option was not under active consideration by the board when it hired Zahn, who had not previously worked for a public utility. The leadership changes in JEA also resulted in the promotion of Wannemacher to the post of chief financial officer. Trial starts: How former JEA executives Aaron Zahn and Ryan Wannemacher got there Other scandals: Before Aaron Zahn's JEA trial, Jacksonville had lots of scandals in court. Remember these? Money and power: Inside the campaign to privatize JEA JEA invites bids for sale of utility The JEA board held a series of meetings from May to July 2019 that examined various scenarios for the future of the utility, which provides electric and water service to several hundred thousand customers in most of Duval County plus parts of St. Johns, Nassau and Clay counties. Before the JEA board discussed whether to put the utility up for sale, JEA executives met with outside attorneys and investment bankers who flew in for three days of meetings July 10-12 at The Club Continental, a resort hotel in Orange Park. The event used the code name "Project Freebird" for the privatization process. At a July 23, 2019 meeting, the board voted to invite bids for the potential sale of utility. The board gave a green light for exploring a potential sale after Zahn said the other option was to slash one-fourth of the workforce by laying off 574 employees. At the end of the meeting, the board also approved an employee incentive plan known as a "performance unit plan," or PUP for short, that would let employees purchase units at a price of $10 apiece and cash them out in the future based on the company's financial performance. City Council Auditor report on PUP shocks council members JEA was in the midst of months of closed-door negotiations with companies interested in purchasing the utility when the City Council Auditor's Office issued a memo that said the PUP incentive plan would deliver financial windfalls for JEA employees in the event of a sale. Jacksonville City Council member Ron Salem asks questions during a December 2019 session concerning JEA. Kyle Billy, who was City Council auditor at the time, said if JEA were sold at a price that netted a gain of $4 billion for the city, JEA employees would reap $315 million based on them putting $1 million of their own money into the performance plan. City Council member Ron Salem called it a mind-boggling concept and was among the council members who urged JEA to kill the plan. State attorney investigates matters involving JEA State Attorney Melissa Nelson said on Dec. 18, 2019, her office had been examining JEA matters. We have heard the concerns of the community over the past several months. This office is and has been looking into matters involving JEA," she said. By then, the sales process was unraveling in the face of growing City Council opposition. The board put Zahn on administrative leave on Dec. 17 at a meeting and also killed the PUP incentive plan. The board then pulled the plug on the sales process at a Dec. 24 meeting after Mayor Lenny Curry said the public had lost trust in it. Wannemacher was terminated without cause on Dec. 27 and the board decided on Jan. 28, 2020 to fire Zahn with cause. The entire JEA board then resigned. FBI investigation takes over from state attorney Nelson said on Jan. 13, 2020, that her office had initiated an investigation in 2019 of issues "related to the privatization of JEA" and she had determined the appropriate venue to continue this investigation is the federal justice system. She federal authorities would take the lead moving forward "and have the full support of this office." State Attorney Melissa Nelson, shown speaking in 2019, initiated an investigation of JEA matters and then referred it to federal authorities to take the lead. On April 23, JEA received a wide-ranging federal subpoena, the strongest sign to date of an ongoing criminal investigation. Almost a year later, a federal grand jury began hearing testimony in March 2021. City Council launches investigation of the sales process A special Jacksonville City Council committee released an extensive report in January 2021 about what happened during the sales attempt, concluding Curry wanted to sell the utility because of billions of dollars in proceeds a sale would generate, but that plan "ran afoul through Aaron Zahns greed" in coupling the JEA sale with the PUP plan. The report concluded Zahn used "intentional misrepresentations and omissions" about JEAs financial health to justify the sale. The report said Zahn and other JEA executives made "materially misleading" statements to the JEA board in order to win its support for what it called an "ill-conceived" bonus plan. An attorney for Zahn pushed back against the report's conclusions, saying Zahn "vehemently disagrees with the disparaging and defamatory inferences, innuendos, and coerced statements contained in the report. The truth around JEAs strategic planning process is complex and definitively involved" the mayor, City Council, the JEA board, the Office of General Counsel and "countless strategic advisors." Grand jury indicts Zahn and Wannemacher Federal prosecutors unsealed a 30-page indictment on March 7, 2022, that charged Zahn and Wannemacher with conspiracy and wire fraud in connection with the creation of the PUP plan. The indictment alleged they devised the bonus plan to enrich JEA employees, including themselves, if the city had sold the utility. The indictment alleges they concealed the amount of money at stake in the plan so the JEA board would approve it. Former JEA CEO Aaron Zahn with his wife Mary Branan Ennis Zahn and attorney Brian Albritton leave the federal courthouse after Zahn posted bond on March 8, 2022 Zahn and Wannemacher pleaded not guilty to all charges and filed motions that unsuccessfully tried to toss the indictment on grounds that federal prosecutors violated their constitutional rights. The trial started Wednesday morning before U.S. District Judge Brian Davis in the federal courthouse in downtown Jacksonville. This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Timeline: trial of ex-JEA executives has roots in attempted sale of JEA Feature: China's aid eases misery of quake-affected Afghans in chilly winter Xinhua) 08:53, February 21, 2024 HERAT, Afghanistan, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Surviving the devastating earthquake last October, Ghulam Reza, a resident of Gazara locality in west Afghanistan's Herat province, thanked China for sending assistance to the quake-affected families ahead of the chilly winter. "I am thankful to China for sending assistance to our area that has covered about 50 to 60 families," Reza told Xinhua recently. Around 800 families live in Gazara, according to Reza, and 90 percent of the villagers are living in poverty. A 6.3 magnitude tremor and several aftershocks struck Herat province last October, causing thousands of casualties and rendering thousands of others homeless. Many families have no floor covering to sit on and no dress to wear, Reza said. "You may know that in Afghanistan each family is made up of eight or nine members with one bread earner, who is either an old man or a widow who works and hardly can buy food and clothes to support his or her family in the chilly winter," Reza said. "There could be a catastrophe in the absence of humanitarian assistance." Mohammad, another quake-affected victim, expressed gratitude to China and anyone providing aid to the quake-affected families in Herat. "God bless China and any other country that assists us, and assists the poor people. We are thankful over (their) assistance," Mohammad, 77, told Xinhua. "I have received two blankets that keep us warm against cold spells in the winter and we are happy," the bread earner of a seven-member family said. Mohammad Musa Ashari, Herat's provincial director for the natural disaster management authority, said China is a good neighbor of Afghanistan. "China is a good and friendly neighbor that sent aid to the quake-affected families on time in the hours of need. The assistance which includes tents reached on time and was distributed to the needy people," Ashari told Xinhua. The first batch of earthquake relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived at Afghanistan's Herat International Airport on Oct. 15, 2023 and the second batch arrived on Nov. 16. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) At least 17 of the more than 100 Christians arrested for their faith in a crackdown in Iran last summer received prison sentences of between three months and five years, or fines and floggings, by the end of 2023, advocacy group Article 18 reported. The Christians were imprisoned under laws against establishing and leading a house church under Article 498 or propaganda against the state under Irans amended Article 500, Article 18 stated in its annual report. Authorities also made a significant number of arrests over the Christmas season, with 46 Christians taken into custody in Tehran, Karaj, Isfahan, Shiraz, Ahvaz, Dezful, Izeh and Khorramabad. The arbitrary nature of these arrests is illustrated by the fact that arrestees who were eventually coerced into signing commitments to refrain from Christian activities no longer faced further legal action, the report states. Among those arrested in December were Milad Goodarzi and Alireza Nourmohammadi, who had been released from prison in March, and Esmaeil Narimanpour, one of 10 converts from Islam forced to attend religious re-education sessions in 2022 after a prior arrest. A Christian convert from Afghanistan was also arrested, leading to fears he may be deported, the reported states. In three other unpublicized cases in 2023, three members of one family a husband, wife and son were sentenced to a combined nine years in prison for establishing and leading a house-church. A Christian whose named could not be revealed spent the entire year in prison following his arrest in December 2022, according to Article 18. He had been charged with propaganda against the state by promoting Christianity among Muslims and was unable to afford the bail subsequently demanded of him, which exceeded $70,000, the group reported. The 166 Christians arrested in 2023 marked a small increase over the 134 arrested the previous year. In 2023, fewer of those arrested allowed their names or photos to be publicized out of fears that doing so would hurt their legal cases, the report states. Some Christians released from prison said they were summoned days later for further questioning or were ordered to leave Iran. One said his employment was terminated at the request of intelligence agents. Most of those arrested were converts from Islam, according to Article 18. Meanwhile, a number of Christians were pardoned and released from prison in 2023, though it should be noted that the majority were already nearing the end of their sentences, the report states. Moreover, these sentences related to the peaceful practice of their faith and therefore should never have been issued in the first place. Converts from Islam account for the most Christians in Iran, but Iran does not recognize them and frequently targets them, according to the report. Unable to attend existing churches of the legally recognized Armenian and Assyrian communities, converts either meet in private homes or remain isolated from other Christians. Iran has never codified apostasy, and different interpretations of how Islamic law is to treat those who leave Islam contributes to a lack of certainty and consistency, the report notes. In late 2022, a retired Iranian judge involved in approving the penal code said, Apostasy was supposed to be included in our criminal code, but it was left out for fear of international pressure. Researchers estimate there could be as many as 800,000 Christians in Iran, based on a 2020 survey by a secular, Netherlands-based research group in which 1.5 percent of Iranians from a sample size of 50,000 self-identified as Christians. Ethnic Assyrian and Armenian Christians account for approximately 50,000-80,000, the remainder being converts from Islam, Article 18 stated. The Rev. Hossein Soodmand remains the only Iranian Christian to have been officially executed [in 1990] for his apostasy, though others have been sentenced to death or killed extra-judicially. Mistreatment of Christians from both recognized and unrecognized churches violates Irans obligations as a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Iran ratified in 1975 and is obliged to uphold, along with other international treaties to which it is a signatory, the report states. The UN Human Rights Committee in October assessed Irans compliance with the ICCPR and recommended the Islamic Republic should ensure respect for the right to freedom of religion or belief, including by ensuring that legislation and practices conform to Article 18 of the Covenant [regarding freedom or religion or belief], taking into account general comments No. 22 (1993) on the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion and No. 34 (2011) on freedoms of opinion and expressionguarantee the right of everyone to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his or her choice and to change his or her religion; [and] ensure the freedom to manifest this religion or belief, either individually or in community with others, and in public or private, without being penalized. Iran violated Article 7 of the ICCPR, which prohibits torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, as many Christians reported severe mistreatment during arrest and detention, the report states. Article 18 reported convert Ali Kazemian testifying in January 2023 that his interrogators discovered that I had a metal implant in my left leg from an historic break, and for this reason, one of the agents kicked my left leg several times. Then they put me on a chair, tied my hands together, and the interrogator said: You are now in an electric chair, then they violently punched me several times. In addition to this physical torture, they inflicted a lot of mental and emotional torture on me, and it was easier for me to endure the physical torture than the mental. They threatened me that: Well harm your wife and childrenWell bring your wife to the interrogation room and strip her naked in front of everyone, to see if you can really resist and stay quiet. Release from prison does not end the prosecuted Christians ordeal, as authorities afterward monitor and harass many while others are denied employment, the report states. Many Christians reported that they had been fired from their jobs following arrest, usually after employers bowed to pressure from Ministry of Intelligence agents. Christians will receive distressing and disturbing telephone calls from their interrogator, which remind them of the psychological torture they experienced during their detention, Article 18 reported. Often, the Christians are also summoned back to see their interrogator and give an account of their activities following their release. Elaheh Kiani, wife of Christian prisoner Touraj Shirani, told Article 18 that after her husbands release, intelligence agents still followed them, and an interrogator regularly called them from an unknown number. Every time he called, we trembled with fear and sadness, she said. And he always asked the same questions, like, Have you been in contact with anyone? And, Which of the Christians have you seen? He told us: We are watching you! Only on channel 9, its a story we first reported in August. A 6-year-old girl was killed, and her mother injured after a group of teens involved in a gang dispute shot up the wrong home. Channel 9 obtained investigative documents showing all the suspects posing with weapons before the shooting. READ: The 9-5 workday is now a myth for many workers and its affecting productivity Channel 9 also obtained 9-1-1 calls from the night the mother and her 6-year-old daughter were shot. The mother survived; the little girl did not. Callers said they heard rounds of gunshots, and said they saw someone dragging a body and that a gun was left behind. 19-year-old Isayah Wright, who was with the alleged gunmen, also died in the shooting. The Orlando Police Department arrested five people: 17-year-olds Kenny Adams, and Brandon Pickett, 18-year-old Ricky Bowery, 21-year-old Tyrik Nichols- who was found in Colorado-, and the youngest, 15-year-old Nico brown. Channel 9 obtained investigative documents showing Instagram posts made by the group before the shooting. READ: Coast Guard suspends search for four missing boaters in Florida It shows what appears to be multiple handguns and long guns. To be honest, its sad because when you think of it, these are young children, family friend Shirley Heath said. Heath knew the six-year-old girl and her mother; the pair were not the intended targets of the shooting Just 19, barely an adult and you look at some of these kids and just wonder, you wonder, Heath said. Captions on the Instagram posts included till i die, what else am I supposed to do and a comment about the get back. READ: Florida leading the country in reports of so-called moving scams, new data shows Channel 9 also obtained a map included in the investigation. It reveals a route that shows a stop at a home on Perrine Drive, then a 7-minute drive to the Southern Oaks Apartments. The third stop is the location of the shooting. The map then shows a stop at the Arium Lake View apartments before it ends at Orlando Health. Thats where the suspects are caught on camera dragging 19-year-old Isayah Wrights body out the car. As far as how these boys got their weapons, Orlando police say say it sees a lot of the weapons were obtained illegally, whether through burglaries, or other people buying them for criminals. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Today, a hearing at the Court of Appeal may define the future of civil disobedience. As a string of climate activist trials reach the courts, a defence used to acquit many of those charged could soon be cut off. That defence, that companies would consent to damage caused to their properties during eco-protests if they fully understood the effects of climate change, has been put to the Court of Appeal for clarification by Attorney General Victoria Prentis, following the case of a woman being acquitted on such grounds. If barred from being used as a defence going forward, the future of environmental activism may hang in the balance. For those who have sat in traffic for hours unable to get to hospital or work as a result of protesters lying in the road, missed flights due to airport blockades, had their Ashes viewing halted by activists running onto the pitch or a gallery visit disturbed by flying soup hurled by eco-warriors, a legal crackdown might seem welcome. Todays [Feb 21] clarification will address what the law describing destruction or damage and its circumstances really means. Of around 160 verdicts involving eco-activists since 2019, 75 per cent came back not guilty, or in hung juries, according to tracking by campaign group Plan B with many acquitted on the basis that some harms are permissible if they absolve greater ill, like breaking the window of a hot car if a dog is inside. But concern about the climate is not a licence for defendants to engage in vigilante action, explains Sally Hobson, criminal barrister at London chambers the 36 Group. Nor is it a licence for defendants to impose their own views on others under the pretext that those others would have agreed with them. Climate change is not a licence for defendants to engage in vigilante action, says criminal barrister Sally Hobson - AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali Hobson served as prosecutor in a November trial of nine Extinction Rebellion activists who had shattered windows at HSBCs European headquarters, at an estimated cost of 500,000. While the defendants accepted they had caused the damage, the broader point protesting against the banks investments in coal made them justified in so doing, they said. The jury acquitted all nine. The defence is being used for a purpose never intended or anticipated by the legislators, according to Hobson. If the Court of Appeal adopts the narrow interpretation being urged upon them by the Attorney General it should follow that there will be more convictions. Others are concerned that if the clarification does go Prentiss way, it could continue to strangle protest rights in England. Over the past two years, the Government has passed two bills limiting civil action (the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act in 2022 and the Public Order Act in 2023), granting police powers to make arrests if protesters make too much noise, for instance, and making public nuisance offences punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment. Michel Forst, United Nations special rapporteur on environmental defenders, last month described Englands growing anti-protest legislation as draconian, and of grave concern. Around 120 climate activists have been imprisoned in the UK to date, with verdicts ranging from acquittal to harsh punishment. In December, a 57-year-old father and Just Stop Oil protester was sentenced to six months in prison for participating in a march for approximately 30 minutes; a protester who scaled the Dartford crossing was given three years. Around 120 climate activists have been imprisoned in the UK to date - Adrian Dennis/AFP via Getty Images While many want to see the back of mass disruption, stopping the public from challenging bad actors would have a deleterious effect on our future, says Benjamin Franta, senior research fellow and head of the Climate Litigation Lab at the Oxford Sustainable Law Programme. The parties that are being protested against, whether thats companies or governments theyve known about climate change for a long time. And theyve failed to act, he says. Protesters have already gone through proper channels; weve waited for decades for this problem to be addressed, and its not [been]. I can understand how people would take to the streets now, because what other options do people have? A report last month from the World Economic Forum concluded that by 2050, climate change would result in $12.5 trillion of economic loss globally, and cause an additional 14.5 million deaths. That itself is enormously disruptive, Franta says. Whos enacting the violence here on a greater scale? Is it the protesters who are breaking some windows? Or is it the government ministers, who are ensuring that entire countries become uninhabitable? He adds that property damage caused by activists is, by comparison, basically insignificant. Franta has seen how protests can trigger wider change first-hand. During his time as a student at Harvard University, he became active in the fossil fuel divestment movement (pushing for the university to stop investing its multibillion dollar endowment into the likes of oil companies). He was at one stage arrested for protesting and maintains that the right to participate in these things is an essential part of a democracy; capable of moving the needle on matters from womens rights to nuclear arms, race and sexuality. And on divestment too, public pressure worked: in 2021, Harvard agreed to stop investing in the fossil fuel industry, citing the threat of climate change. Where things become murkier is the relevance of disobedient acts to the cause people are purportedly fighting for. There is no nexus between a window being broken and the climate change crisis, says Hobson rather the jury must decide whether the police and media attention that follow serve the purpose at large. Activists hit the protective glass on a painting at the National Portrait Gallery in London in November but is this a relevant act? - Just Stop Oil via AP Though verdicts have been inconsistent, preserving juries power in the justice process is paramount, barristers urge (if the clarification is made today, juries will hear limited evidence about why the damage was caused, restricting their decision-making abilities). That cases of this kind have more often than not ended in acquittals tells us something about what everyday people in society value and want, says Franta. The woman at the centre of the Attorney Generals case, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has also this week spoken out about the clarifications potential effects, describing it as an assault on the rights of juries to acquit someone having listened to the evidence I feel like the Attorney General is trying to retrospectively challenge the jurys decision. Some are sceptical about the timing of this challenge, too. In the absence of a realistic chance of success, it looks more like grandstanding in an election year than a meritorious request for clarification, says Joseph Kotrie-Monson, director at Mary Monson Solicitors. Besides, Hobson adds, even if the more restrictive interpretation is brought in, it is unlikely that the most devoted protesters would change what they do. Many are prepared to sacrifice their liberty for what they believe is the greater good, likening themselves to the Suffragettes and other protesters who resorted to damaging property to achieve their end goal. Many activists see themselves as Suffragette-like - AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth Protests and, indeed trials, can be a useful tool, she adds, facilitating martyrdom for many, as court cases allow further opportunity for concerns to be aired in full view. Yet how reasonable this destruction seems to activists now may be short-lived, Hobson thinks. I would quite like to look back in 100 years to see where we are in terms of climate change and whether, as some of the protesters assert, they are justified. 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. Smokers generally earn less, experience more ill health, and need social care up to a decade earlier than non-smokers - Zhang Rong/iStockphoto Tobacco ruins lives. It causes conditions ranging from stillbirth and asthma to dementia and cancer, leads to over 400,000 hospital admissions a year, and ultimately kills two in three lifetime smokers. Over the coming weeks, MPs will debate new laws to create a smoke-free generation, meaning no-one born on or after 1 January, 2009, can be legally sold a cigarette. This is a truly transformative piece of public health policy that could see an end to tobacco use in England. Banning sales of a product eliminates individual choice and is not a policy approach to be taken lightly. Yet, as a freely available product to people over 18, tobacco is a uniquely harmful and addictive substance that warrants a uniquely restrictive policy approach. There are no safe levels of tobacco, no safe age to smoke, and no health benefits. Addiction generally starts young; children who grow up in a household with smokers are three times more likely to start smoking themselves. And once hooked, three out of four smokers wish they had never started, yet it takes an average of 30 attempts to quit. The costs are eye-watering. Tobacco use in England is estimated to cost 49 billion annually in lost productivity, health care and social care with smokers generally earning less, experiencing more ill health, and needing social care up to a decade earlier than non-smokers. By contrast, tobacco duties in 2022-23 were less than a quarter of costs at just 10bn. The policy will see the legal age for being sold tobacco rise by one year each year from 2027. While the proposed age escalation approach is novel, we know that raising the age of purchasing works. Smoking rates dropped by 30 per cent among young people within a year when the legal age increased from 16 to 18 in 2007. The drop was closer to 40 per cent among the target age group when it was raised from 18 to 21 in the US. There are concerns among some that the new policy could drive an illicit market, but the evidence doesnt back this up. Since 2000 the illicit market for tobacco has halved from 22 per cent to 11 per cent despite raising the age of purchasing to 18, banning smoking in public places, introducing plain packaging, and continued price rises. Furthermore, the policy focuses on preventing people from taking up smoking no one who can currently buy tobacco will be unable to do so making it unlikely there will be an increased demand for illegal tobacco. And finally, there is 30m a year extra over the next five years for Border Force, HMRC and council trading standards teams to deliver a new illicit tobacco strategy and strengthen enforcement both in stores and online. There is limited precedent for this type of age-escalating legislation, so councils, enforcement officers, and the UK government will need to quickly learn about how best to work with retailers and the public over the coming years. New powers for trading standards teams to issue 100 spot fines to retailers breaching age-of-sale regulations may help, but more fundamentally, trading standards teams across England face huge challenges with recruitment and resourcing which will have to be addressed. Local government budgets have also faced a decade of severe cuts, with the current funding gap in England estimated to be as much as 4bn. Trading standards teams need long-term financial security, and it is unclear how much of the 30m for enforcement will make its way to support local officers. Online sales may also present their own challenge as the age of sale increases, with digital retailers being obliged to verify the age of customers remotely. The government is promising enhancing online age verification but it would be far simpler to ban online tobacco sales altogether, as recommended in a recent independent government review. Alongside preventing people from taking up smoking, it is also crucial that people who currently smoke get the help they need to quit. Cuts to the local government public health grant since 2015/16 has seen spending on local stop smoking services down by 45 per cent. In response, the government is doubling funding for these services to 138m, with the aim of helping 360,000 people set a quit date each year. Polling from Ipsos and the Health Foundation shows that 69 per cent of the public support the smoke-free generation policy including 74 per cent of Conservative voters and 73 per cent of Labour voters. Yet the recent experience of the incoming government reversing similar plans in New Zealand underlines how politically fragile the smoke-free generation policy can be. Ongoing evaluation of the policy will therefore be vital to maximise benefits, address any unforeseen consequences, and to build the evidence base for longstanding political support into the future. The UK government has a unique opportunity to lead the world in tackling tobacco and preventing death and disease for generations to come, an opportunity that MPs should grasp with both hands. Kate Dun-Campbell is Specialist Registrar in Public Health and Adam Briggs is Senior Policy Fellow at The Health Foundation Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security 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. Editors Note: The following arrest and incident reports were supplied by the Abilene Police Department. All information below comes from reports made by responding officers, and all suspects are considered not guilty unless determined otherwise in a court of law. Incidents 5600 block of S 1st Street Assault Pregnant Person A victim was assaulted by her boyfriend in south Abilene. 1700 block of Butternut Street Criminal Trespass A suspect was at a homeless shelter he had been warned from previously. 5200 block of Lamesa Avenue Burglary of Habitation A suspect was arrested for Burglary of Habitation. 2500 block of N 1st Street Robbery An employee of a north Abilene business reported an unknown suspect entered his store and attacked him with pepper spray during a theft attempt. 3600 block of Hari Texan Court Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse A victim filed a report for credit/debit card abuse. 800 block of Sayles Boulevard Assault Elderly/Disabled A victim contacted police to reported he was assaulted at a south Abilene business. 1200 block of Musken Road Harassment A victim reported a suspect threatened her. 3500 block of S Clack Street Theft of Property A south Abilene business discovered individuals stole several items of clothing. 3900 block of Janice Lane Criminal Mischief A known suspect is accused of throwing rocks at several vehicles, causing damage. He also injured a victim. 2300 block of Brookhollow Drive Assault Family Violence A suspect was arrested for family violence in south Abilene. 3900 block of Janice Lane Criminal Mischief A report for Criminal Mischief was taken in south Abilene. Arrests Kyle Marden Criminal Trespass Jazmyn Johnson Burglary of Habitation Nicholas Bowlin Warrant Colby Ferard Assault Family Violence Garrett Brown Assault Family Violence Dywayne Ralston Warrant, Evading Arrest, Possession of Controlled Substance x3 Timothy Marshall Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Duty to Register For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. Donald Trump trashed mail-in voting again, and people who wanted him to lose the election were all for it. At a town hall event hosted by Fox News on Tuesday in South Carolina, host Laura Ingraham asked the former president to address voter concerns about mail-in ballots. What are you going to do to make sure we dont have problems going forward? she asked. If you have mail-in voting, you automatically have fraud, Trump replied, repeating a lie hes been telling for years. OK, well, theres mail-in voting in Florida, and you won huge, Ingraham shot back, referring to Trumps 2020 victory in the state over President Joe Biden. Trump has persistently attacked mail-in voting as rife with fraud, which he falsely claims cost him the 2020 election, even though he himself has voted by mail. Following a disappointing midterm result for Republicans, party officials have amped up efforts to change voter attitudes about the process, encouraging Republican voters to request mail-in ballots and vote early. Trump has both supported and then repeatedly undermined that messaging. Way to shave off a percent or two, Donnie. Keep it up, Rick Wilson, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, posted on X. Other social media users who seemingly identified as Democrats encouraged Republicans to heed Trumps message. See a snapshot of the reactions to his remark below. Way to shave off a percent or two, Donnie. Keep it up. https://t.co/kPq43RG5Xv Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) February 21, 2024 I wholeheartedly endorse Republicans waiting until Election Day to vote. Do not vote early. Do not vote by mail. Wait wait wait. https://t.co/uRRM6bnTPt Bradley P. Moss (@BradMossEsq) February 21, 2024 He is so insane and self destructive. https://t.co/kxKgPjMsA0 Spiros Ghost (@AntiToxicPeople) February 21, 2024 Months of the RNCs early voting/Bank your vote campaign down the drain https://t.co/AQhOFLXZAZ Sophia Cai (@SophiaCai99) February 21, 2024 As a Democrat who enjoys winning a lot of elections, there are few things I love more than Trump trashing mail-in voting. https://t.co/lFM3OyIht3 TrumpsTaxes (@TrumpsTaxes) February 21, 2024 As a Democrat I hope all Republicans listen to Trump and never vote by mail. Alex Cole (@acnewsitics) February 21, 2024 Donald Trump voted by mail in the 2020 election. https://t.co/Vb5w8sF3hVhttps://t.co/9Xn83pXxyZ Frank Luntz (@FrankLuntz) February 21, 2024 Republicans are you listening? ONLY vote on Election Day. Thats it. Dont worry if you have some unforeseen emergency that day, youll be fine. Totally. Believe me. https://t.co/6N3rOpmEpS Jo (@JoJoFromJerz) February 21, 2024 Basically Republicans, if you vote by mail the Deep State is probably going to steal it. Best to wait for Election Day. Dont mind the lines. And if one of those canvassers comes to your door trying to get you to do it, good chance they work for Soros and are tricking you. https://t.co/QJBrA61ZHG Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 21, 2024 Its not talked about enough how Trump is just deeply and genuinely stupid. https://t.co/z1ESBELyM0 Matthew Rein (@MatthewARein) February 21, 2024 I hope he never stops saying this. Shut up, Laura. https://t.co/RObqN8cWD0 Josh (@JoshGreenberg27) February 21, 2024 Related... The Czech Republic on Wednesday extradited a suspect who has been charged by the Justice Department for plotting to kill a U.S.-based Iranian government critic on behalf of the Islamic Republic. Polad Omarov, who was arrested in the European country last January when the charges were announced, was handed over to U.S. authorities at Pragues airport after exhausting all of his appeal options, Reuters is reporting, citing the Czech Justice Ministry. Rafat Amirov of Iran; Omarov of the Czech Republic and Slovenia; and Khalid Mehdiyev of Yonkers, New York, were all named and arrested in connection with the plot against Masih Alinejad, a former Iranian journalist who became a U.S. citizen in 2019. "The Victim in this case was targeted for exercising the rights to which every American citizen is entitled. The Victim publicized the Iranian Government's human rights abuses; discriminatory treatment of women; suppression of democratic participation and expression; and use of arbitrary imprisonment, torture, and execution," Attorney General Merrick Garland said at the time. 3 INDIVIDUALS WITH TIES TO IRAN CHARGED IN ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT AGAINST US CITIZEN IN NEW YORK Journalist Masih Alinejad during an appearance on Fox News in October 2023. "The Department of Justice will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to undermine those protections and the rule of law upon which our democracy is based. We will not tolerate attempts by a foreign power to threaten, silence, or harm Americans," he added. "We will stop at nothing to identify, find, and bring to justice those who endanger the safety of the American people." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Officials said the assassination plot was the second attempt by Iran to target Alinejad. The FBI thwarted a 2021 kidnapping attempt by Tehran to try and forcibly bring her back to Iran. IRAN ACCUSES ISRAEL OF BLOWING UP NATURAL GAS PIPELINE IN SABOTAGE ATTACK Masih Alinejad speaks in New York City in October 2018. The three suspects are facing murder-for-hire and money laundering charges. Mehdiyev was arrested in 2022 after he was found driving around Alinejads Brooklyn neighborhood with a loaded rifle and dozens of rounds of ammunition. Alinejad told The Associated Press at the time that authorities told her the man was looking for her, and that a home security video had caught him hanging outside her front door. Attorney General Merrick Garland said Alinejad was "targeted for exercising the rights to which every American citizen is entitled." Garland said "individuals in Iran" had tasked the defendants with carrying out the plot to kill the activist. Fox News Caitlin McFall, David Spunt and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Original article source: Czech Republic extradites suspect charged in Iran-backed plot to kill US-based government critic Oscar-winning actor Christian Bale, who played Batman in the Dark Knight movie trilogy, is involved in a new project building houses and a community center as part of an initiative to protect foster siblings from being separated from one another. The 50-year-old actor met with local officials last week in Palmdale, California, in honor of the new construction a project he envisioned 16 years ago. Bale, who was born in Britain, has lived most of his life in Southern California. The idea to build a community for foster siblings came to his mind when he discovered that there was a larger percentage of foster children in Los Angeles County, and many of them were being separated. "I was stunned and mad to learn that we have more foster kids here than anywhere else in the country. I was also kicking myself for not knowing that before. So I thought, 'Well, this is it. Let's focus on this,'" Bale told The Hollywood Reporter (THR). "My wife and I decided that we were going to do everything we could in our power to change that." Arranging for a community to be built for foster children was no easy feat, according to Bale. I had a very naive idea about kind of getting a piece of land and then, bringing kids in and the brothers and sisters living together and sort of singing songs like the Von Trapp family in The Sound of Music," Bale said. "It's way more complex. These are peoples lives. And we need to be able to have them land on their feet when they age out. Theres so much involved in this. After taking a trip to Chicago and working for multiple days in meetings for children and family services, Bale said he recruited Tim McCormick, who had set up a similar program and they arranged for the organization that became known as Together California. Bale co-founded the group with UCLA Dr. Eric Esrailian. "He said we've got to do this in California," McCormick said of Bale. "To his credit, through all sorts of challenges, COVID and everything else, he never gave up." The men met with LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and other city officials to plan the community and related services for the foster siblings. Together, the group has begun work on 12 homes and a community center, which will be completed in April 2025. "With our Together California model, [the village] is something absolutely new, totally transformative, and something completely needed. Imagine the absolute pain and 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 told THR. "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 started his career from a young age starring in the films Steven Spielberg's "Empire of the Sun" and the Disney musical "Newsies." He won an Oscar for best supporting actor for the 2010 film "The Fighter." Roughly 391,000 children across the United States are in foster care, according to a 2021 report by usafacts.org. The website also states that the U.S. foster system serves more than 600,000 children annually. Originally published by The Christian Post PRAGUE (Reuters) - The Czech Republic is in talks with Germany to get 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks as a gift compensating Czech military support for Ukraine and to possibly buy 15 more from the German defence industry, the Czech Defence Ministry said on Wednesday. The Czechs had received 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany as a previous donation, and also plan to order dozens of the most modern 2A8 versions to be delivered in the coming years. The ministry said the additional 15 tanks that would be bought would cost in the low hundreds of millions of euros, and would help improve the country's capabilities amid a switch from Soviet-era equipment that it has largely donated to Ukraine. "If the current negotiations are successfully concluded, the Czech Republic will have 42 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and the recovery tanks on the same chassis," the ministry said in a statement. "After 2030, the Czech Army may have over 100 Leopard tanks of two types in active service and reserve," it added. Leopard tanks are made jointly by Germany's Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. The Czech government has been in talks to buy around 70 Leopard 2A8 tanks in a joint purchase from industry with the German government. Apart from the already-donated 15 Leopard 2A4s, the Czech army still uses 30 modernised Soviet-era T-72M4CZ tanks and some unmodernised T-72s, but most of those have been donated to Ukraine. The Czech Republic was the first country to send heavy equipment to Ukraine in 2022 and has so far provided 62 T-72 tanks, as well as 131 infantry fighting vehicles, 16 air defence systems and six helicopters from army reserves, Prime Minister Petr Fiala was quoted as saying on Wednesday by news agency CTK. More equipment has been sent through private companies. (Reporting by Jan Lopatka; Editing by Leslie Adler) Prosecutors may try for a third time to bring murder charges against the passenger in a car whose driver crashed and killed two bystanders in Modesto in 2019 while leading officers on a high-speed pursuit that reached approximately 100 mph and included the passenger shooting at two police officers. The fleeing car crashed into the outdoor seating area of the Tacos Vallarta food truck at 14th and D streets around 2 a.m. June 15, 2019, killing Melchor Leyva Fong and Pedro Gil. Three days later, prosecutors charged the driver and passenger with murder in the mens deaths. Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Nancy Leo dismissed the murder charges against the passenger, Rodney Quiros, but not against the driver, Antonio Gazo, at the conclusion of their preliminary hearing in May 2023. Prosecutors then refiled murder charges against Quiros, and his attorney filed a motion asking a judge to dismiss the charges. Superior Court Judge Dawna Reeves granted the motion last week. Authorities allege Quiros shot at two Modesto officers during the pursuit. Quiros is charged with four counts of attempted murder of a peace officer with premeditation, which carry lifetime prison sentences. So why continue to pursue murder charges against him? We believe its in the interest of justice ..., Stanislaus County Senior Deputy District Attorney Wendell Emerson said. ... He was assisting the driver evade capture, and we believe under the law, he was responsible for the two people who were killed. Prosecutors consider appeal Emerson said prosecutors are considering appealing Reeves decision to Californias 5th District Court of Appeal. It could take the court several months to issue a decision if prosecutors pursue an appeal. Quiross attorney Amy Kennedy with the alternate defenders office did not respond to a phone message seeking comment. But in asking Reeves to dismiss the murder charges, she cited Leos ruling that Quiros was not responsible for the drivers actions and his life was in as much danger as anyone elses, according to court records. Quiros, 29, also is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and the enhancement of firing a gun. Gazo, 27, also is charged with four counts of attempted murder of a peace officer with premeditation (though prosecutors do not allege he fired a gun), being a felon in possession of a firearm, hit-and-run driving causing death, evading a peace officer that resulted in death and the unauthorized use of someone elses car. Both men are in the Public Safety Center. Their next court appearance is April 4 for a case management conference. Emerson said this case has taken time to resolve because of the pandemic and having several attorneys represent the two defendants. He said each new attorney has to get up to speed on a case he called complex and with lots of evidence. County settles wrongful death lawsuit Leyva Fong and Gil were both 31 years old and each man had four children. Family and friends have described them as devoted fathers and spouses and good men. Their families filed a wrongful death lawsuit in 2020 against Modesto and Stanislaus County. The Sheriffs Department assisted in the pursuit. The pursuit started after an officer tried to stop a reportedly stolen white Toyota sedan. Police say the Toyota failed to yield and the pursuit began. The lawsuit was dismissed last year, with Stanislaus County settling it for $423,000, according to court records. Modesto did not pay anything. The plaintiffs (the two mens families) voluntarily agreed to dismiss the City of Modesto, the Department, and its police officers. The officers were properly trained on vehicle pursuits, followed their training, and did not cause the unfortunate deaths ..., according to a statement from the city. Paul Caputo, one of the attorneys who represented the families, has alleged that a so-called stop stick deployed by a sheriffs deputy deflated the Corollas front driver side tire and contributed to the driver losing control and crashing. The county did not provide a copy of the settlement. But attorney Jaime Leanos, who also represented the two mens families, said the county did not admit to wrongdoing in settling the lawsuit. Gils wife could not be reached for comment, and Leyva Fongs longtime partner and mother of his children declined to comment, according to a family member. Unfortunately, the kids lost their fathers, and the women lost their spouses, Leanos said. Money wont change anything. Its devastating. But it can help them make a fresh start. It could help them move forward. When Israeli special forces rescued two of the hostages kidnapped by Hamas, there was relief for their families and a boost for national morale. But the rescue on 12 February has left angry feelings in Gaza, where more than 70 people were reported killed on the night. Warning: Readers may find some of the details below distressing. Nawara al-Najjar was asleep in the tent that had been her family's home in Rafah for the last five weeks, just a few hundred metres away from the site of the rescue raid. Lying on the ground were Nawara, who is six months pregnant, her six children - ranging in age from 13 to four - and her husband Abed-Alrahman. They had fled from their home in Khan Younis, about 9km (six miles) north, following the instructions of the Israel Defense Forces who said Rafah was a safe area. Before falling asleep, the couple discussed what to do about two of their children who had been injured. Their son had been burned by scalding food, and their daughter was recovering from facial paralysis caused by trauma in the early stages of the war. Before they became refugees, Abed-Alrahman did whatever work he could find to support his family, often as a labourer on farms. They were a strong couple who always tried to solve problems together. "My husband was anxious, thinking about how he would find a way to treat them and where to take them," Nawara says. "Our neighbours said they wanted to take my daughter to a doctor for treatment So, we decided that he would be in charge of our son, and I would be in charge of my daughter." Then something unusual happened. Nawara usually slept surrounded by the children. But that night, Abed-Alrahman asked to change the arrangement. "Before he went to sleep, he asked me to come and sleep next to him. It was the first time he said, 'Come sleep with me'." They fell into the exhausted sleep of refugee life. Then shortly before 02:00 (00:00 GMT), Nawara woke to the sound of shooting. Abed-Alrahman said he would go out and see what was happening. Nawara says: "Our oldest son was telling him, 'Dad, please don't go out'. [Abed-Alrahman] was trying to reassure him that nothing would happen; my son was telling him not to go out, that he would die." Then she felt a searing pain in her head. Shrapnel from an explosion had ripped into the tent. Nawara started screaming. At first she could not see anything. After some minutes her vision returned in time to see Abed-Alrahman in his death throes. She remembers the "rattle" of his final breaths. "When my children first saw him, they were screaming, 'Oh, father, oh father, don't leave us, don't leave us'. I told them, 'Stay away from your father. Just pray for him'." Daughter Malak, aged 13, was hit in the eye by a splinter of shrapnel. Four other children sustained minor wounds. They also endured the trauma of what they heard and saw - the explosions and their father being carried away to hospital. Later that night, in a hospital filled with other victims, it was confirmed to Nawara that Abed-Alrahman was dead. Weeping, she asks: "What was his sin? What was his children's sin? What's my sin? I became a widow at 27. Malak says she was taken to three different hospitals to try and get treatment, but she lost her eye. "I was not treated immediately. Only after three days was my surgery performed. I was injured in the eye and I was also shot in my waist. I'm in pain, pain, pain." Then Malak became distraught, and cried out: "I lost my dad. Enough!" Malak al-Najjar, aged 13, lost an eye on the same night of the Israeli military raid According to the health ministry, run under the direction of the Hamas government in Gaza, at least 74 people were killed during the raid in the early hours of 12 February. It is not possible to say precisely how many of the dead were civilians and how many were fighters. But witnesses and medical sources suggest a high proportion of the dead were non-combatants. The independent Palestinian Centre for Human Rights, based in Gaza, using details obtained from hospital lists, says 27 children and 22 women were among those killed. Mohammed al-Zaarab, 45, a father-of-10 from Khan Younis, also fled to Rafah believing it would be safe. He remembers being woken in his tent by the intensity of the assault. "They were shelling with helicopters, with F-16 jets My son was shot in his hand. Our neighbour was shot in the head." The following day, Mohammed's elderly father felt unwell. He took him to the doctor, but soon after the old man died of a heart attack. "I buried him. Today is the third day in his grave. Why is this happening to us?" he asks. The International Medical Corps - which provides emergency aid in crisis zones around the world - runs a field hospital near the scene. Dr Javed Ali, a surgeon from Pakistan, was jolted awake by the first strikes and went to shelter in a safe room in the staff quarters near the hospital. "Aside from the air strikes, we were hearing tanks in the background, there was active exchange of fire from small firearms, as well as a helicopter gunship that was going over the hospital fighting and firing in all directions. So, it was very, very scary. We thought that this was it." Hearing the sound of ambulances, the medics decided to leave the safe room and help. Along with the wounded came women and children seeking shelter. "The hospital itself is a tent structure. So there were a lot of concerns. Obviously, if there is any strike towards the hospital it will be devastating, but we had to make a decision to save as many patients as possible." Nawara al-Najjar, sitting with some of her children, was injured by shrapnel that ripped into her tent on 12 February Many of the dead were thought to be still lying under the rubble of destroyed houses. Another doctor - from the international agency Medecins Sans Frontieres - sent a series of anguished voice messages to colleagues in London after sunrise on 12 February. She described lying across her children's bodies to protect them as shrapnel flew through the windows of the room where they were sheltering. The doctor has given the BBC permission to quote the messages but wants to remain anonymous. Her account of what she found after the raid is harrowing. "At our home when we were checking, I found pieces of human flesh. We found a whole lower limb belonging to a human that we don't know who he is. When I saw the pieces of flesh on the floor, I cried." Since the beginning of the IDF incursion into Gaza, the military has accused Hamas of using the civilian population as human shields, and using medical facilities to conceal military operations and hide hostages. The rescue of two hostages - Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Har, 70 - in Rafah this month was a rare success for the Israeli teams searching for more than 130 people, including two children, still believed to be held captive. In a statement to the BBC about the events of 12 February, an IDF spokesman said it was "committed to mitigating civilian harm" during military operations. Military lawyers advised commanders so that strikes complied with international legal obligations. The statement says: "This process is designed to ensure that senior commanders have all reasonably available information and professional advice that will ensure compliance with the Law of Armed Conflict, including by providing 'Target Cards' which facilitate an analysis that is conducted on a strike-by-strike basis, and takes into account the expected military advantage and the likely collateral civilian harm, amongst other matters. "Even where circumstances do not allow for a targeting process involving this level of deliberate pre-planning and pre-approval, IDF regulations emphasise that commanders and soldiers must still comply with the Law of Armed Conflict." Human rights organisations have previously accused Israel of using disproportionate force. In a statement on 8 February - four days before the hostage raid - Human Rights Watch warned that Israel "might be carrying out unlawfully indiscriminate attacks. When it comes to the question of whether Israel is violating the law in Gaza, there is enough smoke to suspect a fire". In December US President Joe Biden warned Israel against "indiscriminate bombing" in Gaza. Any legal deliberation on whether the raid constituted a disproportionate use of force, and therefore a war crime, must await an independent investigation. With no end to the war in sight, that process may take a long time. The anonymous MSF doctor who found body parts in her home is deeply pessimistic. "To be honest, the one who died is the one who is lucky the one who is left has been cursed and abandoned by all people around the world. It's not fair I don't know how anybody can sleep knowing that our kids are suffering for nothing. We are only civilians." Her message comes from inside the frightened, claustrophobic confines of Rafah, where 1.5 million people - six times its normal population - have sought shelter. Israel is threatening an invasion of Rafah in the next few weeks, necessary, it says, to destroy Hamas. The fear for the refugees is that the horror of 12 February will soon be overtaken by new miseries, and forgotten by the international community. "I know that this message means nothing to a lot of people," the MSF doctor says, "and will change nothing". With additional reporting by Alice Doyard, Haneen Abdeen and Gidi Kleiman. A 13-year-old girl who disappeared Tuesday morning has been located and is safe, Dallas police said Wednesday afternoon. The Dallas Police Department asked for the publics help finding the teen, who was was last seen Tuesday in the 9800 block of Brockbank Drive around 7:50 a.m. Police had said in a social media post that the 13-year-old might need medical assistance. Anyone with information about the teens whereabouts was asked to call the Dallas Police Department at 911 or 214-671-4268. Today's top stories: Crips member sentenced for murder in death of gang rival Father of innocent bystander killed in police chase sues city of Fort Worth Texas Monthly lists 2 from Fort Worth among Best New Restaurants Get free alerts when news breaks. Police have said they will take no further action against GB News presenter Dan Wootton. The New Zealand-born broadcaster said in a statement on Wednesday that he had been "completely cleared". The Metropolitan Police had examined allegations that he used fake online identities and offered money to others for explicit material of themselves. Last July, he told viewers he had made "errors of judgement" but strongly denied any criminality. GB News has not commented, but Wootton currently remains suspended because of a different matter. In a statement issued by his lawyer, Wootton said the allegations were "completely spurious - lies designed to destroy my career where complainants were actuated by malice". He continued: "While I knew this would always be the outcome, the process is now the punishment, with social media acting as the executioner. "Margaret Thatcher once said that if you ever get trial by media, or guilt by accusation, that day freedom dies. "She was right. It is high time that all of our ancient rights were once again upheld, chief among them the right to be presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law. "If it falls to me to be the champion of those rights, then so be it. It is a fight I am more than willing to take up, not just for me but for all of us." A Met Police spokesman told BBC News: "In June 2023, the Metropolitan Police was contacted with regards to allegations of sexual offences committed by a man aged in his 40s. "Officers assessed all information available to establish whether any criminal offence has taken place. "An investigation was commenced into these allegations. All parties involved have now been advised that no further action will be taken. There were no arrests during the investigation." Meanwhile, Police Scotland have informed the BBC they have concluded an investigation. A spokesperson said: "Our enquiries are now complete and no report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal at this time. "We reserve the right to review this decision in the future and should any new information become available or reported, this will be fully investigated." Former tabloid journalist Wootton is known for his work at the News of the World and the Sun newspapers, and appeared on ITV's Lorraine as showbiz correspondent before joining GB News. He was named showbiz reporter of the year at the British Press Awards on three occasions, and broke the story of the withdrawal of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex from royal duties. After leaving his job as executive editor at The Sun in January 2021, he became a regular columnist for the MailOnline and then launched his own hour-long evening programme on GB News. He was suspended from his role as a presenter on the network after a row over comments made on his show by actor-turned-politician Laurence Fox about a female journalist. Wootton also had his contract as a columnist with the Daily Mail terminated at the same time. By Isabelle Yr Carlsson COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -Denmark's farmers on Wednesday voiced concerns that plans to levy a carbon emission tax on farming as part of efforts to meet Denmark's ambitious climate goals would force them to reduce production and close farms. Denmark, a major pork and dairy exporter, could become the first country in the world to levy an emissions tax on farming, a move that has broad political backing in the country, after New Zealand last year pushed back such a tax to the end of 2025. A carbon tax on farmers could help Denmark achieve its legally-binding 2030 target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 70% from 1990 levels. But such a measure would also mean higher costs for farmers and as a consequence reduce production by as much as one-fifth, a government-commissioned group said in a report on Wednesday. A tax of 750 Danish crowns ($109) per million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted would have the biggest impact. The group also considered lower taxes of 375 crowns and 125 crowns. "These models are based on something very disappointing, namely that climate reduction can only come by reducing production," Peder Tuborgh, CEO of dairy producer Arla Foods, told Reuters. Tuborgh said new technologies had helped Arla's 9,000 farmers in Denmark, Sweden, England, Germany and Benelux reduce emissions by 1 million tons in the last two years. "There is an innovation path," he said. "We would like to continue that journey, rather than having to shut down our production." More than half of Denmark's land is farmed, with agriculture accounting for about a third of the country's carbon emissions, according to Danish climate think tank Concito. The agriculture sector has become a political battleground as the European Union strives to meet its net zero emissions target by 2050. Farmers across the bloc have been protesting for weeks, saying they are facing rising costs and taxes, red tape, and excessive environmental rules. The scenarios laid out by the government advisors would reduce agricultural production by between 6% and 15%, with cattle and pig production falling by around 20% under the harshest taxation scenario. "It will be relatively dramatic if we chose to go down that path," Jais Valeur, CEO of Europe's biggest pork producer Danish Crown, told TV2. "It's key that we encourage our best farmers to become better so that we can lead the way for a sustainable transition," he said. ($1 = 6.8948 Danish crowns) (Reporting by Isabelle Yr Carlsson, Louise Rasmussen and Stine Jacobsen; Editing by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, Kirsten Donovan and David Evans) The Russian share of the Danone company, which was seized by the country's government in 2023, is set to be sold to a Chechen businessman with close ties to the Kremlin. Source: Financial Times with reference to its sources Details: The French company Danone will sell Life & Nutrition to the Russian dairy company Vamin Tatarstan, which is owned by 29-year-old Mintimer Mingazov. Mingazov was appointed to Life & Nutrition's board this summer, shortly after the Kremlin transferred control of the company to Yakub Zakriev, Kadyrov's 33-year-old nephew, in response to Western sanctions. Airat Mukhamadeev, director of the Vamin Tatarstan, stated that it has agreed to pay RUB 17.7 billion (US$191.5 million) for control over the Russian part of Danone, with RUB 7.7 billion (US$83.2 million) going to service debt on operations in Russia and the remainder going to Danone's share of the company. According to the Kremlin's policy on Western companies exiting the Russian market, the transaction price includes a 56% discount on the market value of assets. Danone has also agreed to provide support until the end of July 2025 to ensure the "continuity" of its former Russian business, as Life & Nutrition continues to localise the production of certain ingredients, in order to maintain "the high quality of products to which Russian consumers are accustomed." The agreement must be approved by the Russian Ministry of Agriculture before being voted on by a special government subcommittee tasked with approving Western companies' exit from the market. People familiar with this process report that the sale of Danone assets to Vamin Tatarstan may not happen, the Financial Times indicates. Background: In July 2023, Russian leader Vladimir Putin transferred foreigners' shares in Baltika and Danone's subsidiary companies to the Federal Property Management Agency; previously, the companies announced the sale of their assets in the Russian Federation. Support UP or become our patron! Police have arrested Pammy Maye for the murder of 5-year-old Darnell Taylor. Three days after state and federal authorities issued an Amber Alert for Darnell Taylor prompting a statewide search for both Darnell and his legal custodian, Pammy Maye, authorities found the 5-year-old boy dead in a sewage drain in the 1000 block of Marsdale Avenue in southwest Columbus. Police arrested Maye Feb. 15 in the 4000 block of Tiedeman Road in the Cleveland suburb of Brooklyn. Police officials said they are seeking to charge the 48 year old with murder, in addition to felony kidnapping and child endangerment. Even with the resolution to Darnell's disappearance, there are still questions about whether warning signs were missed and if the system meant to protect Darnell may have failed. Here's what we know and what we don't in the investigation. Why was Darnell Taylor in Pammy Maye's custody? Maye and her husband took custody of Darnell in May 2023, according to information provided by Columbus police. The Mayes gained legal custodianship of Darnell sometime between then and the day he disappeared. Franklin County Children Services provided information to The Dispatch last week saying there was a substantiated allegation of physical abuse and/or neglect related to Darnell from March 2022, more than a year before the Mayes had custody of Darnell. A summary report from Franklin County Children Services filed on March 24, 2022, says that the department received a referral from another agency to look into the allegations of physical abuse and/or neglect. The report doesn't disclose which agency made the referral. Children Services did not provide The Dispatch any information about who had custody of Darnell in March 2022 or who may have been accused of abusing the toddler. Darnell had also been referred to several service agencies, including Nationwide Children's Hospital behavioral health and Kinship Care. Kinship Care provides services for children and families who are working through FCCS as a way to ensure smooth transitions and some material or monetary assistance, depending on eligibility. Nationwide Children's Hospital's behavioral health practices provides care and guidance for children with "emotional, behavioral or developmental problems." Darnell Taylor, a missing 5-year-old boy, was found dead days after an Amber Alert was issued Wednesday. "We continue to work with police investigators and prosecutors," Scott Varner, director of communications for Franklin County Children Services, said in an email to the Dispatch. "As such, our agency will be limited in any additional release of information about Darnells history, his family, or his custody with the Maye family. As with the fatality of any child in our community, we will fully participate in the review of this case with the Franklin County Child Fatality Review Board." Why are there not more public records available in Darnell's case? Many records from children services agencies are not public, under Ohio law, as a means of protecting the children involved in the system. Where were Darnell's biological parents? Neither of Darnell's biological parents have spoken publicly about their son. Darnell's biological family has been notified of his death. Maye remains in custody in Cuyahoga County, and it is unknown when she will make her first appearance in court in Franklin County. Darnell's paternal and maternal grandparents have each declined to speak with The Dispatch. They have provided statements to other media outlets. Shanda McGee, Darnell's maternal grandmother, told Cleveland's 19 News she had raised concerns about Maye to Darnell's caseworker on multiple occasions. Darnell's paternal grandparents, Tawanda and Anthony Barnes, told 10TV they were taking care of Darnell at some point, but caring for him became too much. They turned to Maye, a family friend for years, to help them. "Darnell's kind of rough. We couldn't handle him. I hate to say we couldn't handle him, but we didn't want him in the system," Anthony Barnes said. Darnell's biological family had not seen the toddler since July, shortly after the Mayes gained legal custody. The Barnes family told 10TV Maye used to attend birthdays, cookouts and holidays but stopped answering their phone calls."We thought maybe she was keeping him from us so he can be a part of their family first, but six months that's a long time, Anthony said. Did Pammy Maye had contact with police before? According to 911 records obtained by the Dispatch, Maye's husband placed an approximately five-and-a-half-minute call to report his wife missing on Oct. 30. Maye's husband told the dispatcher that his wife said she would be home at a certain time, but two additional hours had passed and she was not yet home. Her phone was going to voicemail when he called and other family members had not had any contact with Maye. "I'm not sure what happened, I'm not sure what's going on with her, and I just need some help trying to find her," Maye's husband said. The dispatcher determined Maye had no contact with police or wasn't involved in a traffic crash. A Columbus police officer was sent to the couple's Reeb Avenue home to take a missing persons report. However, there was no incident report taken from the call, indicating Maye likely made contact with police or her family. A prelimiary report from the incident and the 911 call made by Maye's husband make no reference to Darnell. About two weeks later, Columbus police received another call from the Maye home, involving a dispute with a neighbor over pet chickens. Again, no report was taken. On three other occasions since May 2021, police went to the home to accompany the fire department on unspecified medical issues. Pammy Maye had no criminal history prior to Feb. 14. What prompted the Amber Alert for Darnell and Pammy Maye? On the day Darnell and Maye went missing, Maye's husband called 911 at around 3 a.m. to say his wife had told him the boy was dead and he couldn't find him in the Reeb Avenue house. Pammy Maye, 48, tried to interrupt her husband's 911 call, according to a redacted 911 recording released Thursday. Maye can be heard saying she "had a plan" before she fled the home in a 2015 Jeep Cherokee with Ohio license plate JIGGZII. The vehicle was found abandoned around 6 a.m. Wednesday in the Cleveland suburb of Brooklyn. Just before 10 p.m. on Thursday, authorities found Maye in the 4000 block of Tiedeman Road in Cleveland, wandering in her nightgown. She later told investigators where they could find Darnell's body. When will Pammy Maye be brought back to Columbus? Maye is expected to be brought back to Columbus on Wednesday, Columbus police Sgt. Joe Albert said. After she is in Franklin County, a date for Maye's first court appearance will be set. bbruner@dispatch.com @bethany_bruner @ShahidMeighan smeighan@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: What we know and don't know in Darnell Taylor, Pammy Maye investigation WASHINGTON D.C. (WHTM) On February 21, 1885, hundreds of people gathered to dedicate the tallest building in the world, the Washington Monument. It took a lot of years, a lot of work, and a lot of grim times before getting to that point and there were times when it looked like that point would never be reached. When the Federal City was being laid out in the late 1700s, erecting a monument to George Washington was a forgone conclusion. But where would it be, and what would it look like? That debate dragged on for a while-over 30 years, in fact. Elevator trouble closes Washington Monument indefinitely Finally, things started to move in the 1830s, with the 100th anniversary of Washingtons birth in 1732. In 1833 came the founding of the Washington National Monument Society. This private organization planned to raise money for the monument by soliciting donations. The board included some heavy hitters, such as former President James Madison and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall. The original design for the Washington Monument by architect Robert Mills, calling for a 250 wide ,100 high colonnade, and a 600 tall obelisk (LOC) The cornerstone of the Washington Monument is laid by Benjamin French, a Masonic grand master, July 4, 1848, using the same trowel used by George Washington when he laid the cornerstone of the capital in 1793. (AP) Picture from Leslies Magazine, 1854, entitles View of Washington Monument as it now appears. (LOC) The Beef Depot-the area around the monument was used as a slaughter yard and cattle pen during the Civil War.(NPS) 1865 Stereograph showing the unfinished monument. (LOC) Setting the Capstone 1885 Washington Monument 1885, with images of White House, Capitol, President Grover Cleveland, and Vice President Thomas Hendricks (LOC) Dedication Ceremony for the Washington Monument, February 21, 1885. (AP) Washington Monument 1886 (LOC) Washington Monument, 1900 (LOC) Washington Monument 1902 (LOC) A team of engineers, from left, Dan Gach, Emma Cardini, center, and Katie Francis, harnessed to ropes , inspect the exterior of the Washington Monument for damage caused by last months earthquake, Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) A missing corner of a stone is seen in the Washington Monument at the 491-foot level of the scaffolding surrounding the monument, Sunday, June 2, 2013 in Washington. The monument has been closed since the 2011 earthquake and half of the needed repairs have been funded by a $7.5 million donation from philanthropist David Rubenstein. The Associated Press had a look at some of the worst damage and the preparations underway to begin making repairs. Stone by stone, engineers are reviewing cracks, missing pieces and broken mortar now that huge scaffolding has been built around the towering symbol of the nations capital. Once each trouble spot is identified, repairs can begin. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Work crews continue removing the scaffolding surrounding the Washington Monument in Washington, early Monday, Nov. 18, 2013. The National Park Service has announced the earthquake damaged monument will reopen in spring of 2014. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) The sun peeks through the scaffolding around the Washington Monument at dawn in Washington, Monday, March 24, 2014. The National Park Service has announced they will reopen the earthquake damaged structure in May. (AP Photo/J. David Ake) Visitors line up for tickets which are distributed at on a first-come basis at the Washington Monument in Washington, Monday, May 12, 2014, ahead of a ceremony to celebrate its re-opening. The monument, which sustained damage from an earthquake in August 2011, is reopening to the public today. (AP Photo) FILE- In this Sept. 26, 2014, photo, the monuments of Washington are silhouetted through the lifting fog over the nations capitol as seen from an overlook in Arlington, Va. From left are, the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, the Capitol, the Smithsonian Castle, and the Library of Congress. Government surveyors have determined a new height for the Washington Monument thats nearly 10 inches shorter than what has been thought for more than 130 years, officials will announce Monday, Feb. 16, 2015. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) John Lopes, playing the part of President George Washington, stands near the Washington Monument following a ribbon-cutting ceremony with first lady Melania Trump to re-open the monument, Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, in Washington. The monument has been closed to the public for renovations since August 2016. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky) The rising full moon passes behind the Martin Luther King Memorial and the Washington Monument, Tuesday evening, Dec. 29, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/J. David Ake) Get daily news, weather, breaking news and alerts straight to your inbox! Sign up for the abc27 newsletters here Within a few years, they raised over $28,000, or about $760,971 in todays currency. In 1836, the Society opened a competition for designs. Architect Robert Mills winning design called for a 600-foot high, flat-topped obelisk, and a circular building described variously as a colonnade, a rotunda, or Pantheon. But the projected price tag of over $1 million (about $27,177,555 today) forced the Society, which had only $87,000 in donations, to work on the project in stages. They would start work on the obelisk, in the hopes theyd get more donations for the rotunda when people actually saw something being built. Washington Monument could close for up to 9 months 1848 saw the cornerstone laid on the Fourth of July, in a ceremony conducted by the Freemasons. (Washington had been a member.) A number of dignitaries attended, including Washingtons step-grandson George Washington Parke Custis, President James Polk, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, Dolly Madison, Alexander Hamiltons widow, Betsey Hamilton, and some one-term congressman from Illinois named Lincoln. The start of construction did not bring the additional funding the Society hoped for. In 1854, money ran out, and construction ground to a halt. Then, just when things looked like they couldnt possibly get worse, the Know-Nothings moved in. The Native American Party, or just American Party, better known as the Know-Nothings from members practice of replying I know nothing when asked about their policies, was a virulently anti-Roman Catholic, anti-Irish, anti-immigrant-in-general organization, prone to conspiracy theories and general xenophobia. The Monument Society drew their ire as a result of asking people to contribute stones for the building. When Pope Pius IX sent a block of marble to the project, the Know-Nothings stole the Popes stone and destroyed it. (they may have thrown it into the Potomac River.) Rare document of George Washington to go up for auction in York The Know-Nothings then engineered a takeover of the entire Society in a fraudulent election. Congress, which had appropriated $200,000 for the monument, immediately canceled its contribution. During their time in charge of the Society, the Know-Nothings added 13 courses of masonry to the Monument, which turned out to be so badly done it had to be removed so the project could continue. Eventually, the Know-Nothings were forced out, but before the Society could regroup, the Civil War erupted. For the duration of the conflict, the area around the unfinished monument was a stockyard and slaughterhouse. The monument sat untouched for 22 years. But interest in finishing the job grew. During the nations Centennial of the Declaration of Independence in 1876, Congress coughed up another $200,000 to restart the project and turned the job of finishing the structure over to the Army Corps of Engineers. Things really started to move. On December 6, 1884, the capstone was set in place. Just a couple of months later, on February 21, 1885, President Chester Arthur officially dedicated the building. At 555 feet high, the Washington Monument was the tallest building in the world. Many other buildings have since surpassed it in height, but it remains the tallest free-standing stone structure in the world. In the six months after it opened, the Washington Monument saw 10,041 visitors. They had to get to the top the hard way, climbing 893 steps. Then the elevator used to carry building materials was modified for passengers, and the number of visitors increased-a lot. Today the Washington Monument has more than 800,000 visitors each year. Of course, you have to be patient, even with pre-purchased tickets, lines are long. The monument has seen some modifications and repairs. It underwent major restoration in the 1990s, reopening in 2001. On August 23, 2011, an earthquake about 85 miles from Washington damaged the monument. The repair and restoration closed the building until May 2014. In 2016 it closed yet again, to add an enhanced security screening facility and improve the elevators. It reopened in 2019 and remains open today. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. On February 21, 2019, the Japanese Space Agency's Hayabusa-2 probe, pictured, touched down on asteroid Ryugu. File Image courtesy of the DLR German Aerospace Center Feb. 21 (UPI) -- On this date in history: In 1848, The Communist Manifesto was published by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. A rare copy of the publication sold at auction for $39,600 in 1986. In 1878, the New Haven, Conn., Telephone Co. published the first phone directory. It listed 50 subscribers. In 1885, the Washington Monument, a 555-foot-high marble obelisk built in honor of America's revolutionary hero and first president, was dedicated in Washington. File Photo by Pat Benic/UPI On February 21, 1885, the Washington Monument was dedicated in Washington. File Photo by Pat Benic/UPI In 1916, Germans launched the Battle of Verdun. More than 1 million soldiers in the German and French armies were killed in nearly 10 months of fighting. It was the longest battle of World War I. In 1925, the first issue of The New Yorker was published. President Richard Nixon tries his luck at eating with chopsticks during the farewell banquet upon completion of his historic visit to China in 1972. At left is premier Chou En-Lai and at right is Communist Party Leader Chang Chung-chiao. File Photo by Dirck Halstead/UPI In 1934, Nicaraguan guerrilla leader Cesar Augusto Sandino was killed by members of the country's national guard. In 1953, Francis Crick and James D. Watson discovered the double helix structure of the DNA molecule. It took another three decades for scientists to produce a clear, direct picture of the DNA molecule. On February 21, 1934, Nicaraguan guerrilla leader Cesar Augusto Sandino was killed by members of the country's national guard. File Photo courtesy of Underwood & Underwood/Wikimedia The Francis Crick Letter titled "Secret of Life" is on display at Christie's in New York City on April 5, 2013. The letter from Francis Crick to his son dated March 19, 1953, outlines the revolutionary discovery of the structure and function of DNA. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI In 1965, Black Muslim leader Malcolm X was assassinated at a rally in New York. On February 21, 1916, Germans launched the Battle of Verdun. More than 1 million soldiers in the German and French armies were killed in nearly 10 months of fighting. It was the longest battle of World War I. File Photo courtesy Wikimedia In 1972, Richard Nixon became the first U.S. president to visit the People's Republic of China. In 1994, longtime CIA counterintelligence officer Aldrich Ames and his wife, Maria, were arrested and charged with selling information to the Soviet Union and Russia. Ames was sentenced to life in prison; his wife got a five-year term. On February 21, 1925, the first issue of The New Yorker was published. File Photo by Ezio Petersen/UPI In 1995, a Russian commission estimated up to 24,400 civilians died in a two-month uprising in the separatist republic of Chechnya. In 2007, nuclear neighbors India and Pakistan signed a treaty in New Delhi aimed at preventing the accidental use of atomic weapons. Former Bollingbrook, Ill., police Sgt. Drew Peterson leaves Will County circuit court after his arraignment on May 18, 2009, in Joliet, Ill. On February 21, 2013, Peterson, 59, was sentenced to 38 years in prison for the 2004 murder of his third wife, Kathleen Savio. File Photo by David Banks/UPI In 2014, U.S. President Barack Obama met the Dalai Lama, Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, at the White House after the Chinese government warned the meeting would damage U.S.-China relations. A White House statement said Obama "reiterated the U.S. position that Tibet is part of the People's Republic of China and that the United States does not support Tibet independence." In 2019, the Japanese Space Agency's Hayabusa-2 probe touched down on asteroid Ryugu. It was the first probe to deploy working rovers onto an asteroid. President Barack Obama meets with His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama in the Map Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 16, 2011. On February 21, 2014, Obama met the Dalai Lama, Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, at the White House after the Chinese government warned the meeting would damage U.S.-China relations. File Photo by Pete Souza/White House In 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered "peacekeeping" troops into two separatist regions of eastern Ukraine under new decrees recognizing them as independent republics. Three days later, Russia invaded Ukraine. File Photo courtesy of Kremlin Pool FRC Publishes New Edition of Hostility Against Churches Report Indicating a Doubling of Attacks NEWS PROVIDED BY Family Research Council Feb. 20, 2024 WASHINGTON, Feb. 20, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- Family Research Council (FRC) today released the newest edition of its Hostility Against Churches report, updated to include hostility incidents from calendar year 2023. The report's findings suggest that the rise in hostility against U.S. churches that were identified in FRC's inaugural December 2022 report has neither slowed nor plateaued; rather, it has accelerated rapidly. FRC identified 436 hostility incidents in 2023--more than double the number identified in 2022 and more than eight times the number identified in 2018, the first year for which FRC collected data. Notable findings in this report include, but are not limited to: Over the past six years (2018-2023), FRC has identified 915 acts of hostility against U.S. churches. The types of acts identified included vandalism, arson, gun-related incidents, bomb threats, and more. In 2023, at least 436 acts of hostility against churches occurred in the United States, more than double the number identified in 2022. In 2023, acts of hostility against churches took place in 48 states and the District of Columbia, with more occurring in states with larger populations. California had the most incidents, with 33. Texas had 28 incidents. Hawaii and Wyoming had none. Criminal acts of vandalism and destruction of church property may be symptomatic of a collapse in societal reverence and respect for houses of worship and religion. Tony Perkins, FRC president and former chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, commented on the report: "There is a common connection between the growing religious persecution abroad and the rapidly increasing hostility toward churches here at home: our government's policies. The indifference abroad to the fundamental freedom of religion is rivaled only by the increasing antagonism toward the moral absolutes taught by Bible-believing churches here in the U.S., which is fomenting this environment of hostility toward churches." Arielle Del Turco, Director of the Center for Religious Liberty at FRC and author of the report, commented: "Although the motivations for many of these acts of hostility remain unknown, the effect is unmistakable: religious intimidation. They send the message that churches are not wanted in the community or respected in general. Our culture is demonstrating a growing disdain for Christianity and core Christian beliefs, and acts of hostility against churches could be a physical manifestation of that. Regardless of the motivations of these crimes, everyone should treat churches and all houses of worship with respect and affirm the importance of religious freedom for all Americans." To access the full publication, please visit: http://frc.org/HostilityAgainstChurches SOURCE Family Research Council CONTACT: J.P. Duffy or Alice Chao, 866-FRC-NEWS or 866-372-6397 Share Tweet Under a law signed two years ago by Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, students can only use public school bathrooms that correspond with the gender designation on their birth certificate. That is why on Feb. 7, Nex Benedict, a non-binary, gender-fluid 16-year-old sophomore at Owasso High School, was in the girls bathroom with another student, who is trans. The pair encountered three older girls, and a physical altercation ensued. In a statement on Tuesday, the school said the incident lasted just two minutes before other students and a staff member intervened. By then, Nex, who used they/them pronouns, had landed on the floor, suffering a blow to the head. Nobody summoned an ambulance. The school suspended Nex for two weeks and called Nexs grandmother, Sue Benedict, who told The Independent that she arrived to see Nexs face was battered. The grandmother, who had formally adopted Nex, took them to Bailey Medical Center, where they were examined and released. The police had not even been notified of the altercation when the grandmother called them. As the grandmother told The Independent, Nex complained of a sore head and went to bed listening to music, the teens regular balm after being bullied. They got up the next morning, but suddenly collapsed. An ambulance took them back to the hospital, where they died. The state Medical Examiners Office has yet to officially determine the cause of death. We understand that people are concerned about this incident and we can assure everyone that this incident is being taken seriously and is being investigated thoroughly, the Owasso Police said in a statement on Tuesday. Detectives have, are and will be interviewing school staff and students over the course of the next two weeks and in turn will be submitting our investigation to the Tulsa County District Attorneys Office for prosecution review. A funeral was held on Feb 15. Local police and the Bikers Against Child Abuse provided an escort from the Mowery funeral home to Ridgelawn cemetery. Stitt was absent, as was Ryan Walters, the state superintendent of public schools. Governor Kevin Stitt (R-OK). Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for Concordia Summit via Getty Images Last year, Walters released a public service video in which he described being trans as an assault on the truth and said, We have injected radical gender theory and telling kids that they might be other genders. Its dangerous. It puts our girls in jeopardy. Just last month, Walters appointed Chaya Raichik, the virulently anti-trans founder of Libs of TikTok, to a state library advisory board. Chaya Raichik and I have developed a strong working relationship to rid schools of liberal, woke values, Walter said in a statement at the time. Raichik was already well known in the Owasso school system. In 2022, she accused an LGBTQ+ middle school teacher of being a groomer. The teacher, Tyler Wrynn, whom Nex and other trans kids deemed safe, resigned. Nex was very angry about it, the grandmother told the Independent. Last summer, Raichik zeroed in on a Tulsa school librarian, and several Tulsa schools received bomb threats over the next few days. Libs of TikTok targeting had similar results in various parts of the country. And in November, Raichik replaced her profile photos with one of her proudly holding a copy of USA Today with the front-page headline When Libs of TikTok posts, threats increasingly follow. Raichik, Walters and Stitt have all said that they are seeking to protect children. They certainly did nothing to protect Nex. And the grandmother says Nex had been bullied since the teens arrival at the high school in 2023. The actual priority of these three bigots is to promote themselves by making parents fear their kids will fall victim to woke indoctrination and sex-crazed groomers. Stitt is a typical right-wing politician, and Raichik is just a craven influencer. But Walters is supposed to do more than seek every opportunity to further his political ambitions. He is directly responsible for the well-being of all the kids in the states public schools. He is supposed to actually protect them. On the day Nex died, Walters said nothing at all about the loss of a bright and big-hearted student who was just what a superintendent should most want in the schools. Walters instead released a letter to U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) saying, the growing crisis at the southern border puts our kids, our families and all Oklahomans in danger. Detectives are now investigating whether a very real danger in one of his high schools left a promising sophomore dead. Walters should in the meantime instruct Owasso High School to change its Principals Honor Roll so Nex Benedict is not listed by the teens deadname. In a statement, Sue Benedict noted she had been so lost in grief that she had given the funeral home the deadname for the obituary: We are sorry for not using their name correctly and as parents we were still learning the correct forms. Please do not judge us as Nex was judged, please do not bully us for our ignorance on the subject. Nex gave us that respect and we are sorry in our grief that we overlooked them. I lost my child, the headstone will have the correct name of their choice. 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. DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) The Decatur City Council is meeting Tuesday evening, where they will vote on an ordinance for the Decatur Fire Department to start charging for lift assist services at congregate care facilities as well as discussing plans for Eldorado Street. If the ordinance is approved, the Decatur Fire Department would charge at least $500 per lift assist call to commercial facilities like assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The ordinance is to dissuade private care providers from calling the Fire Department to move people lying on the floor. Decatur City Council votes to revitalize Garfield Park, add funding to home improvement program In a memo to the mayor, City Manager Scott Wrighton and Decatur Fire Chief Jeff note responding to lift requests often takes them away from emergencies, and gives firefighters additional liability. If patients are paying for care, it should include lift-assists by the care facilities personnel, part of the memo reads. The city has experienced workers compensation claims as a direct result of lift assists. City officials noted have lift request to the fire department calls ballooned over the years, with 430 in 2014 to 1029 in 2023. Lift requests at congregate care facilities in the city have more than doubled in 10 years. Decatur starting daylighting process for water pipes Decatur City Council will also hear ideas on adding improvements to El Dorado Street between the Illinois Central Railroad crossing to 19th Street. The Illinois Department of Transportation has told city officials they will repave the street in the next five years. City staff are suggesting to reuse elements from the 2009 downtown streetscape projects like the same curb & gutter configuration, the same colored brick behind the curbs, the same street lighting, the addition of suitable ROW trees, some decorative fencing as appropriate, and wider pedestrian corridors. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. A 30-year-old man is going to prison after being sentenced in the fatal stabbing of a taxi driver last year in Oregon, officials said. In April, Portland officers arrived at the scene and found a 43-year-old man, later identified as Reese McDowell Lawhon, dead in his cab, according to a Feb. 21 news release by the Multnomah County district attorneys office. After getting the camera footage from Radio Cab taxi, officers learned Moses Lopez stabbed Lawhon in the neck, officials said. McClatchy News reached out to Radio Cab for a statement Feb. 21 and was awaiting a response, but the company described Lawhon as kind and dedicated, according to KOIN. He was a great hugger. He respected people from all walks of life. Reese never lost a friend; he just kept adding them and they never left, according to Lawhons obituary. Reese quietly walked his own path. Medical officials arrived before police and saw Lopez leaving the cab marked with blood and dropping brass knuckles with a blade attached, officials said. Lopez was arrested on the scene after he stayed in the ambulance to be treated for minor injuries, the district attorney said. Lawhon, who was described as devoted to his loving and supportive family, loved being outdoors and enjoyed taking pictures of the Northwest, according to his obituary. Lopez pleaded guilty to manslaughter and unlawful use of a weapon, officials said. He was sentenced to 22 years in prison, the district attorney said. Man leaves blood trail trying to put dead man in car, New Mexico officials say Man kills 4-year-olds mom and tells girl to hide weapon, feds say. Now hes sentenced 17-year-old fatally shot man over Louis Vuitton fanny pack, Colorado officials say For the second year in a row, Ukraine has been facing Iranian Shahed drones in Russian attacks. Defence forces have established mobile fire groups to counter this threat more effectively. The State Border Guard Service has shared insight and posted footage of them intercepting drones in the southern part of the country. Source: State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Today, mobile fire groups are operating throughout the country. Their main task is the destruction of kamikaze drones. Border guards make up a significant portion of personnel in these groups. Quote: "At first, from the forward positions, we hear about its (Shahed's) passage by sound, by air. Then we observe how the other groups operate, and move based on that. We are mobile thanks to the pickup truck. The machine gunner stays in the truck bed, while the rest move around and engage in the hunt," Bohdan, a machine gunner, describes the process of shooting down a drone. Bohdan mentions that Shahed drones are shot down with bullets of at least 12-mm calibre. Other ammunition is less effective in this case. The main task is to damage the fuel, engine, or "brain" its operating system. Otherwise, the drone may still reach its target even if it is full of holes. A border guard with the alias Zamok ("Lock") explains that the most challenging part is finding the drone. This is done using a searchlight. It can illuminate up to a kilometre. "If the weather is good, there is a small difference between the sound from the Shahed drone and the actual flyby. When the weather is windy, it can fly far, and it may sound like its behind already. It's essential to find it quickly," shares Zamok. The commander of the unit, Oleh, explains that the mushroom-shaped cloud visible after the explosion is the detonation of the explosive part of the Shahed. The drone itself disintegrates into small pieces at that moment. "Once, the drone flew very fast about 10 seconds. We had already shot it with the last rounds, turned around and there, behind us, was a fire mushroom about 50 metres in radius," recalls Oleh. If there are parts of the Shahed that can be studied, they are handed over to competent authorities. The rest is collected to confirm the downing those with the onboard number and series. Machine gunner Kostiantyn says that the biggest motivation in this work is knowing that his family and other families are safe. "That sort of thing motivates you. If you down the drone, someone's family can sleep peacefully no air-raid warnings, no running to the basement. Because we are defending the sky," he emphasises. Support UP or become our patron! CONCORD Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington, a Democrat, challenged Republican Gov. Chris Sununu on Wednesday over his recent request for $850,000 to send 15 New Hampshire National Guard troops to Texas as part of a border dispute with the federal government. Warmington, who is running for governor in 2024, raised concerns about whether the troops will take orders from Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott instead of the federal government. Governor Abbott has taken the position that Texas law supersedes federal law when it comes to border security, Warmington said. So will the New Hampshire National Guard have to follow Governor Abbotts orders even if theyre contrary to federal law? Cinde Warmington Maj. Gen. David Mikolaities, who is the adjutant general of the New Hampshire National Guard, said he would rather not answer that question, stating a military attorney could speak to that issue. Generally, he said, Guard troops follow the laws of the state they are in or the federal government, whichever supersedes. Sununu recently traveled to the border in support of Abbott, who has been clashing with the Biden administration since Texas began denying access to U.S. Border Patrol agents at a park along the Rio Grande. Sununu and governors from Montana and Georgia have stated they would send troops. Warmington brought up the issue during Wednesday's New Hampshire Executive Council meeting, when members were to vote on whether to accept and expend additional federal funds to the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services to fund the design of a new New Hampshire Services Center. Warmington criticized Sununu for exercising emergency powers to get the funding when there are six weeks before the National Guard would be deployed. You could have had time to have a public hearing on this, she said. You could have had time to bring this to the council. You chose not to do that. The state Legislature's Joint Fiscal Committee approved Sununu's request Feb. 16, voting 6-4 along party lines. Sununu responds to Warmington Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, seated center, listens as Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp speaks during a news conference along the Rio Grande to discuss Operation Lone Star and border concerns, Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Eagle Pass, Texas. Gov. Chris Sununu (third from left) was among the other Republican governors who joined the press conference, all of whom have cheered on his extraordinary showdown with the Biden administration over immigration enforcement. Sununu said the Executive Council meeting was not the time for this discussion because the troops being sent to the border wasnt an agenda item. He also accused Warmington of using the moment to campaign. This is not an opportunity to do campaigns. You can talk to the press after the council meeting, said Sununu, who is not seeking reelection. Sununu stated he does not believe Abbott said Texas law trumps federal law, adding this is not a new situation. "This is not the first time our National Guard has been under the command of potentially someone other than the National Guard," he said. "They would act as they would in any other situation." Further arguments on NH troops going to Texas Councilor Joseph D. Kenney joined the conversation, too. Were not setting precedent here, weve deployed guardsmen for different roles throughout the country at various times, Kenny said. Mikolaities confirmed this is true, stating this will be the New Hampshire National Guards third trip to the southern border after deploying in 2021 and 2023. The units in 2021 and 2023 were under control, they were at the order of the president, Warmington said. She said Abbott's rhetoric makes this situation different than previous times when New Hampshire National Guard members were deployed to other areas of the country. Material from the Associated Press is used in this report. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Warmington challenges Sununu on sending NH troops to Mexican border Last Sunday, Feb. 18, an allegedly stolen painting by Ivan Aivazovsky, dubbed "Moonlit Night," fetched around $1 million in a controversial sale held by the Moscow Auction House in Russia. The piece is believed to have been looted from the Mariupol Museum of Local Lore, a regional Ukrainian museum of history. However, the auction house denied these claims, saying that it was an entirely different piece. Contentions Behind the Aivazovsky Painting's Sale News about the auction first broke out last week, after Ukraine's former Deputy Prosecutor General, Gyunduz Mamedov, shared a statement about it on X (formerly Twitter). "Russia plans to auction Aivazovsky's painting 'Moonlight Night,'" he wrote in the post. "This painting was among 52 canvases that were illegally transferred to the Simferopol Art Museum in Crimea." Mamedov's statement was also quoted by the Ukrainian publications Kyiv Independent and Pravda, further exacerbating the controversy's spread. Tass, a Russian news agency, also confirmed that the auction did go through, as the painting sold for $995,000 against the pre-sale estimate of about $1 million. According to Mamedov, the piece was among a group of works that was moved to the Simferopol Arts Museum in Crimea back in 2014 due to violating international law. He added that the pieces were then placed by Interpol on an international wanted list in 2017, which should have prevented the Russian auction house from facilitating the 'Moonlit Night' painting's sale as per UNESCO's 1970 convention, which prohibits as much. This is not the first time Russia has come under fire for partaking in "deliberate attacks" against Ukraine's cultural identity, as one museum in Kyiv was caught in the havoc of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and was reportedly looted as well. Read Also: Accademia Gallery Director Compares Dusting Michelangelo's David to Cleaning a Bathroom History of the 'Stolen' Aivazovsky Piece As per Pravda's report, the Simferopol Art Museum and the Mariupol Museum of Local Lore's 2014 agreement involved the loaning of 52 paintings that are part of the Ukrainian Museum Fund. Under this loan, the Mariupol Museum was originally planned to receive the artworks from Crimea, to fill up the spots in the Ukrainian museum's would-be exhibition. However, in March of that year, the Simferopol Museum requested the early return of the pieces, after Russia's occupation of Crimea around the same time. The Kuindzhi Art Museum, a separate collecting institution in Mariupol, later gave back the artworks to the Crimean museum. In mid-2017, Radio Liberty first reported about the heft, where a collective of retired Crimean servicemen had looted the art pieces from the Mariupol Museum before transporting all of them to Crimea. It was the Ukrainian prosecutor's office in the occupied country that first announced the 50-some paintings' status in Interpol's record of looted art pieces. As per Pravda, the officials that were involved in the incident were consequently given prison sentences, however, they shortly received amnesty afterward. Moscow Auction House has since refuted any claims that say the Aivazovsky piece was stolen, Tass reports, as the Russian Romantic painter had made plenty of similar pieces and that the "Moonlight Night" painting it sold was a separate painting. Despite having the same title, the auction house purports that the one it auctioned off was dated 1878 and was obtained at a 2008 sale by Stockholm's Auktionsverk in Sweden. In contrast, the painting that was included in Interpol's list was dated 1882 and is still held in the Simferopol Museum until today. "There is no evidence supporting the strange claims made by this side," said Sergey Podstanitsky, Moscow Auction House's co-founder. Read More: Activists Flood British Museum's Social Media, Demanding Return of Easter Island Statue 2024 Classicalite All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Department for Transport said the daily service was used by only a "very low number" of passengers Direct rail services between Shropshire and London are to end in June. The Department for Transport (DfT) blamed poor passenger numbers for the decision. The service, operated by Avanti West Coast, was relaunched by the previous operator Virgin in 2014. An alternative operator, WSMR, is in the process of applying for permission to run a similar service. Between 40 and 60 passengers a day use the direct service, which currently consists of only one train a day in each direction. It leaves Shrewsbury at 07:04 GMT and returns at 18:16, also calling at Telford Central and Wellington. Transport bosses said services on both legs of the journey - to Birmingham and on to London - would increase. A DfT spokesperson said: "While Avanti will be withdrawing this service due to the very low number of passengers who use it, West Midlands Trains has plans to ramp up the number of trains between Shropshire towns and Birmingham. "Avanti is looking to increase fast services between Birmingham and London. This will bring greater benefits to more passengers in the West Midlands." The move was criticised by Telford & Wrekin Council, home to two of the stations on the route. Lee Carter, the councillor in charge of economic development, said it flew in the face of government levelling-up policies. "We know how important direct services are to improving the Shrewsbury to Wellington rail line and the economic benefits this could give. However it undermines any future rail investment," he added. Chequered history The history of direct trains between Shropshire and London is distinctly stop-start. Avanti and its predecessor on the West Coast Main Line, Virgin, have both introduced, reduced and withdrawn services over the years. The continuation of the service has been the subject of intense lobbying by MPs, local authorities and business leaders. Open-access operator Wrexham, Shropshire & Marylebone Railway operated its own route independent of the national franchising system between 2008 and 2011. A new company, also with the initials WSMR but independent of the former operator, is applying to run a new service. It would serve stations from Wrexham, including Gobowen, Shrewsbury and Telford, before passing through the West Midlands en-route to Euston. However, it would bypass Birmingham, with trains passing directly from Wolverhampton to Coleshill Parkway and Nuneaton. The route is subject to approval by the Office for Rail Regulation, but ministers have expressed their support in principle. Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk More on Shropshire-London trains Related internet links Lawmakers in the Florida House continue to forward two proposals that would undo key provisions of the public safety act passed in the wake of the Parkland shooting. The two bills were advanced to the House floor Wednesday, exactly one week after the six-year mark of the deadly school shooting. After the Parkland shooting, Florida lawmakers implemented mandatory three-day waiting periods for the purchase of all firearms and raised the age to purchase long guns like shotguns and rifles from 18 to 21. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The bill sponsored by State Representative Bobby Payne (R-Palatka) would lower the age to purchase long guns back down to 18. You can serve in the military, you can be adjudicated of a crime, you can be convicted of a felony, you can vote, you can sign a contract, but you cant purchase a firearm for sporting or for safety, said Payne during the bills final committee stop in the House Wednesday. Another bill sponsored by State Representative Dr. Joel Rudman (R-Navarre) would allow for gun dealers to release a firearm to a buyer as soon as the three-day waiter period expires, even if their background check hasnt come back yet. You are talking about four out of 10,000 transactions that have to be repossessed. So, again, youre talking an infinitesimally small number, said Rudman. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Katie Hathaway with Moms Demand Action argued both bills stand to make the state less safe. Repealing these safeguards is a direct slap in the face of gun violence survivors, particularly those families in Parkland and quite frankly every Floridian who deserves the freedom to be safe from gun violence, said Hathaway. While the bills are moving in the House, neither has moved in the Senate. Last week, Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples) indicated it will likely stay that way, despite the bill lowering the age to purchase a gun landing on the Florida GOPs legislative priority list. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Im not gonna, because the Republican Party of Florida has that on their platform, take it out of a committee or violate our rules, said Passidomo last Wednesday. But Hathaway said she and other gun safety advocates arent letting down their guard, knowing as a bill is never truly dead until lawmakers officially close out session. Were continuing to watch these bills and we are gonna continue showing up and making our voices heard opposing them, said Hathaway. Horse trading between chambers in the final weeks can sometimes revive bills that had previously appeared dead on arrival. Assuming lawmakers finalize the state budget on time, theyre slated to close out session in just two and a half weeks on March 8th. 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. EMS Operations Director Art Andres will head up the Consolidated Fire Agencies, or CONFIRE when the agency takes over emergency operations in San Bernardino County this fall. Art Andres will head up the Consolidated Fire Agencies, or CONFIRE when the agency takes over emergency operations in San Bernardino County this fall. In December 2023, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors voted to cut ties with American Medical Response and signed a contract with CONFIRE EMS. CONFIRE will provide emergency and non-emergency ambulance services in portions of the county beginning October 2024, the Daily Press reported. Priority Ambulance, a subsidiary of Priority OnDemand, announced the addition of Andres as director of EMS Operations for CONFIRE EMS & Mobile Health on Monday. "We are thrilled to have Art join Priority as our Director of EMS Operations, said Bryan Gibson, Priority OnDemand CEO. His extensive experience and dedication to the field of EMS within San Bernardino County make him the perfect fit to support our partnership with CONFIRE. We look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on our organization." CONFIRE EMS is a division of the CONFIRE Joint Powers Authority, a public-private partnership formed by 12 fire agencies in collaboration with Priority Ambulance. Two decades of EMS experience With a 24-year career with the Ontario Fire Department and two years as director of the CONFIRE joint powers authority, Andres brings a wealth of experience to his new role, the agency stated. Andres began his career as a paramedic in San Bernardino County for Mercy Ambulance in 1990, later serving Orange County as a firefighter. He joined the Ontario Fire Department in 1996, where he demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership, rising from firefighter/paramedic to captain, EMS coordinator, battalion chief, and ultimately senior deputy chief. Andres was instrumental in developing CONFIRE EMS, where he served as its director until his retirement in 2022. During his professional tenure, Andres worked to improve the EMS system, serving in multiple capacities on the local and state levels, including: Chair of an Emergency Medical Committee in San Bernardino County. Chair of the EMS Advisory Committee for Victor Valley Community College. Paramedic representative on California Emergency Medical Service Authoritys Emergency Medical Services for Children Technical Advisory Committee. To streamline and modernize ambulance service, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 in Dec. 2023, to cut ties with American Medical Response and to sign a contract with Consolidated Fire Agencies, or CONFIRE. An 'invaluable' addition to the team As Director of EMS Operations, Andres will provide leadership and administrative oversight, as Priority and CONFIRE EMS prepare to take on ambulance service in much of San Bernardino County. This is the first change in medical transportation services in the county in more than 40 years, the agency stated. "Art's history of leadership, expertise in EMS, and in-depth knowledge of our communities and the CONFIRE organization make him an invaluable addition to the team," said CONFIRE Executive Director Chief Nathan Cooke. "Having Art as a conduit with Priority will further strengthen our innovative delivery of services for the communities we serve." The CONFIRE EMS and Priority Ambulance partnership will bring cooperative, integrated, high-quality care and expert oversight, connecting people to the care they need, when and where they need it, agency officials added. For more information, visit priorityambulance.com, or priorityondemand.com. Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227 or RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Director Art Andres to head up CONFIRE EMS when service begins Over the weekend, hackers targeted federated social networks like Mastodon to carry out ongoing spam attacks that were organized on Discord, and conducted using Discord applications. But Discord has yet to remove the server where the attacks are facilitated, and Mastodon community leaders have been unable to reach anyone at the company. The attacks were coordinated through Discord, and the software was distributed through Discord, said Emelia Smith, a software engineer who regularly works on trust and safety issues in the fediverse, a network of decentralized social platforms built on the ActivityPub protocol. They were using bots that integrated directly with Discord, such that a user didnt even need to set up any servers or anything like that, because they could just run this bot directly from Discord in order to carry out the attack. Smith attempted to contact Discord through official channels on February 17, but still has only received form responses. She told TechCrunch that while Discord has mechanisms for reporting individual users or messages, it lacks a clear way to report whole servers. We've seen this costing server admins of Mastodon, Misskey, and others hundreds or thousands of dollars in infrastructure costs, and overall denial of service, Smith wrote to Discord Trust & Safety in an email viewed by TechCrunch. The only common link seems to be this discord server. In a statement to TechCrunch, a Discord spokesperson said, "Discords Terms of Service specifically prohibit platform abuse, which refers to activities that disrupt or alter the experience of Discord users, including spam, or sending unsolicited bulk messages or interactions." Though Discord says it is monitoring the situation, the server responsible for the spam attacks remains online. Mastodon founder and CEO Eugen Rochko said in a post that these attacks are more difficult to moderate than past ones, because they deliberately target smaller servers, which often have fewer moderation tools in place. Some of these servers offer open registration, making it possible to quickly start new accounts and post spam. And as Smith notes, these mass spam attacks can drive up server costs, leaving admins with unexpected bills. According to reports on Mastodon, this fully automated attack was sparked by a conflict between teenagers on two different Japanese language Discord servers. Its this sort of weird social behavior, where these kids are essentially acting like schoolyard bullies, Smith told TechCrunch. She thinks that they carried out the attack simply to show that they can, not because they have any ill-will toward these social networks. Theyve got technological capabilities that are well above where they are emotionally or psychologically, she said. Kevin Beaumont, a cybersecurity expert, posted on Mastodon that this incident recalls a similar, yet much larger attack from 2016, in which three college kids created a botnet to make money on Minecraft. But what they built was so powerful that it was able to take down huge swaths of the internet, including sites like Reddit and Spotify. I had to do a radio show on NPR about that one and the presenter kept asking me if it was Putin and I was like, no, its teenagers. Advanced Persistent Teenagers, Beaumont posted. As a decentralized social media network, Mastodons team is unable to intervene in moderation issues on servers that they dont own, which is a vulnerability for the fediverse. On servers that are actively maintained and moderated, Mastodon offers tools to prevent automated account registration, like CAPTCHAs. While Mastodons nonprofit, open source model gives users more ownership over their social media experiences, it also limits the companys ability to hire more developers. Most of the social network is run by volunteers, like Smith herself. I would estimate that the entire fediverse is developed off of the backs of maybe, at best, 100 engineers, she said. All of whom are either low paid, underpaid, or unpaid, who are trying to build software, and at the same time, are supporting the userbase of monthly active users in the range of 1.1 million to 7.4 million. Imagine vast plains teeming with wildlife, situated between breathtaking escarpments. Kenyas share of Africas Great Rift Valley often looks like this and is home to one of the planets largest animal migrations. But one treasure lies underground, where superheated water and steam are being harnessed at the perfect temperature and pressure to power Kenyas future with a seismic impact, according to the Guardian. By tapping into these geothermal resources, Kenya has become a world leader in renewable energy. KenGen, the countrys leading electric power generation company, operates wells and power plants by drawing steam from beneath the valley floor. Kenya sources up to 91% of its electricity from renewables 47% from geothermal alone, per the Guardian. And theres potential for much more. KenGen estimates the country could produce up to 10,000 megawatts in capacity from geothermal energy, over five times its current peak energy demand. Per the Guardian, this would help Kenya reach its goal of transitioning fully to renewable power by 2030, aligning with its national commitment to sustainability and clean energy. Several wells sit within Hells Gate National Park, a home to wildlife but also the former site of the first attempts at geothermal wells in the 1950s. Those early wells did not yield results, and interest waned, according to the Guardian. Geothermal power is clean and poses no harm to the wildlife as the animals have adapted to this system, Gastone Odhiambo, a safety officer, told the news outlet. We dont know where the country would be had the oil crisis not hastened this process, added Peketsa Mangi, KenGens head of geothermal development. The 1970s global squeeze on dirty-energy fuels refocused attention below ground, Mangi says. With renewed external support, success came in the 1980s, and Kenya never looked back. For locals working at the power plants, It is a heavy responsibility to help in generating clean energy that can go for ages, safety officer Gastone Odhiambo told the Guardian. The plants he helps run now illuminate homes across Kenya that lacked electricity just a generation ago like the one he grew up in. When you understand the process, how your tasks affect the day-to-day running of the economy, you remain humble, he added. Kenyas commitment is setting an example as Africa calls for global finance reforms enabling greater investment in renewables continent-wide. In the meantime, an extraordinary power source beneath the Great Rift Valley is lighting the way forward. When all scientific studies and financial resources are poured into the ground, a well is drilled and it discharges, that is power to the country, Mangi said. You feel the investments are well used. And such good days are many. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet. Dr Xowi Mwimbi claimed he acted in self-defence when he punched the vulnerable patient A doctor who punched a dementia patient has been found guilty of ill-treatment by a care worker. Xowi Mwimbi hit the man in the side of the head and pushed his head into a pillow during the incident at Blackpool Victoria Hospital in August 2021. Preston Crown Court heard the patient had swung his arm at Mwimbi, who had been warned not to approach him. The 66-year-old locum claimed he had acted in self-defence. The patient, who also had limited motor functions, made a racial comment as Mwimbi approached. The jury heard the patient was prone to make such comments because of his complex conditions. When the doctor failed to leave the room at the patient's request, the patient swung his arm towards him. Mwimbi reacted by punching the patient to the left temple and pressing his head into the pillow. Care staff intervened and reported the assault. In a police interview, Mwimbi said the patient had hit him and racially abused him so he had defended himself. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the incident would not have happened if Mwimbi had followed the care plan. The court heard the patient scarcely made contact with the doctor due to his lack of mobility. Following a trial, a jury concluded that the doctor was not acting in self-defence and found him guilty. Sazeeda Ismail, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West said: "Dr Xowi Mwimbi demonstrated a gross breach of his duty of care, when in anger he used excessive force against an extremely vulnerable man. "His actions traumatised those who witnessed the incident. "I would like to thank those witnesses for their quick action in intervening and reporting what they had seen." Mwimbi is due to be sentenced on 15 May. Why not follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) During this Black History Month, WAVY spoke with a local doctor who is on a mission to get more Black men interested in joining the medical field. Dr. Steven Noble is a cardiothoracic surgeon with Chesapeake Regional Healthcare. He said he fell in love with the medical field when he was just five years old. I can remember being on my grandparents living room floor just flipping through the transparency pages of the encyclopedia they had, and I was just really fascinated with the human body, Noble said. My path to medicine was just really trying to answer those questions: Why do people get old? Why do people die? Why do people get sick? Why do they go to the hospital? That fascination with the human body, why things worked, why peoples bodies broke down, really got me involved in medicine. So, I told my family that I wanted to be a doctor, and ever since then, they just really put me on that path. He chose to further his education at a HBCU. When it came time to go to college, I decided to go to Xavier University in Louisiana, as it was number one for putting Blacks in the medical school, Noble said. Going down there to Xavier was just an eye opening experience one of the best decisions I made in my life. Noble joined the Navy in 2001 and then went on to medical school at Indiana University. He graduated in 2006 and got out of the Navy in 2018 after deploying to Afghanistan from 2016-2017. Now, his focus is on diversity in the medical field. Noble said back in 2020, just before the world shut down due to COVID, he attended a conference in Chicago. It started with Sen. Dick Durbin giving a talk about someone that I was well familiar with, Noble said. He started talking about Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, and as a cardiothoracic surgeon, I was like, thats my hero. So, to hear Senator Durbin give this story about my hero, I was like, wait a minute. Not that Senator Durbin didnt do the man justice, but I just felt like being able to tell that persons story, Dr. Dans story, from a perspective of someone that is is a big fan of Dr. Dan, I feel like Id be remiss if I didnt try and especially understand that reading is kind of how I came into my love for medicine. So, Noble began to write a childrens book titled The Heart of a Hero. The Heart of a Hero really came from the notion of what an organization called Black Men in White Coats, by Dr. Dale Okorodudu, wants to do, Noble said, and that is really looking at trying to increase the numbers of Black men in medicine. Currently, we represent about 2% of individuals in medicine, and that hasnt significantly changed, and thats actually less than what it was back in 1978. Noble said his book tries to impress upon children that they are their own heroes. Other key aspects about this book is just really the trials and tribulations that we all go through, and Dr. Dan suffered some trials and tribulations, Noble said. His father passed away when he was a young kid. So being a child without a father growing up was impactful. However, he followed in his fathers footsteps in becoming a barber, and so that aspect of those trials and tribulations, we all go through challenges, but how do we recover? How do we come back from that? What do we do? How does that mold us and shape us for greater things? And then the other impact about it is that it takes a village. Dr. Dan really got inspired to pursue medicine by someone that walked into his barbershop. So, as a 17-year-old man, he was an entrepreneur and had a barbershop when a White man walked into his barbershop. It was actually a surgeon in the Union Army that fought against slavery, and it was that general, General Palmer, that really took Dr. Dan underneath his wing and saw that Dr. Dan had an interest in medicine and really cultivated that passion that he had. So Dr. Dan goes on to medical school, but perhaps one of his greatest feats is starting an interracial hospital in Chicago in the 1800s. Individual Black people did not have a hospital that they could go to, but Dr. Dan really realized that for us as a society to take care of the least of us in our society, we all need to come together. So, he got a group of White people, Black people, the whole community, to coalesce around this notion of, lets create a place of healing in which all people could go to, in particular Black people. So, this hospital was staffed by Black physicians, White physicians, the first hospital, that first training hospital for Black nurses. As we know in health care, a lot of the care gets delivered by nurses more so than the actual physicians, and so that training program for Black nurses was key and pivotal. The important thing was it took a whole community, not just Black people to do this, but Black people and White people coming together for the common good. It was some of the things that I saw when I was in the military. Its amazing what we can accomplish when we when we come together for a common good, to have people from different backgrounds, different countries really coming together for this, you know, for the sake of health care, it was really impactful. Noble said as a physician and a surgeon, he sees Dr. Dans story as not only Black history, but also American history. Thats the key thing about this book, Noble said. Although, you know, I promote and talk about it during Black history, this book is truly American history, because up until Dr. Dan, we did not have the institutions that we all are aware of today, like Chesapeake Regional, like all the other hospitals that I worked at in which we treat anybody and everybody that comes through those doors. The Heart of a Hero is a book for everyone, Noble said. I had a great illustrator that really tried to have someone in a wheelchair, all races, all colors, Noble said. So, a book for everyone, and just really, that classroom setting and really talking about what its like to be a hero, and for children to realize that although we talk about superheroes, that heart of a hero lives inside of them. Noble said he geared his book toward third graders. It was really an effort to to be intentional with the school-to-prison pipeline, Noble said. You know, theres been talk about really how reading is so impactful on the success of children as they get older. Having five kids myself, I know the impact that early education had for myself. Early education was key. Again, I made that decision when I was five, and so that just kind of set me on a path. So I think that as we understand the school-to-prison pipeline, and some of the factors and some of the things that lead to mass incarceration, I think we have to be as intentional to combat that in other ways. This is my humble attempt to be intentional to that notion and producing the book to really inspire the next generation of physicians, Black, white, or otherwise, to really pursue medicine, but in particular young Black men. Noble is excited to think about the impacts more Black physicians could have on quality of care. I think itd be tremendous, and I think not only would it be impactful for Black men and Black women, but just the country in general, Noble said. You know, I firmly believe that this country also owes a lot to the Black community, and truly the backbone of this community. I feel that just like with our own bodies, if you strengthen your back, the rest of the body is going to be helpful. So, I think that if we strengthen and improve the health of the Black community, the rest of the community is going to be impacted, and the rest of the community is going to improve because of that. As it relates to getting more Black men and Black women, again, that interaction, that communication, 90% of what we as physicians and health care providers can kind of figure out is from the history. So if there is a disconnect in the dialog that occurs because of whatever reason, language barrier or cultural barriers, prejudice or just racism, then theres going to be an issue as such that when the patient is communicating their signs and symptoms, it may not either be believed or there may just be a disconnect. So being able to have more empathetic providers, being able to have people or doctors understand the person sitting right across from them is very key, because most of the healing and what we know comes from that history, and if we struggle to have that history, if we struggle to just be able to open up in conversation with someone that doesnt look like us, that can lead to some of these barriers that we see. So the hope is that by having more Black physicians, that those barriers can be lowered, that those conversations can be had, that we dont have situations of individuals having health care diseases in which they dont communicate. If you are interested in purchasing Nobles book, click here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. The confidential source at the heart of the House GOP investigation into Hunter Biden who was charged with lying last week received the information from Russian intelligence, according to a Department of Justice filing Tuesday. Alexander Smirnov was charged Thursday with making false statements to the FBI in relation to his testimony about Hunter Biden. Smirnov, who had worked as an FBI informant since 2010, previously told the agency that both President Biden and his son Hunter received $5 million bribes from the head of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma. In a filing arguing for Smirnov to be detained pending trial, prosecutors wrote that Smirnov told investigators after his arrest that the claims originated from Russian intelligence. During his custodial interview on February 14, Smirnov admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Businessperson 1, the filing reads. Businessperson 1 is Hunter Biden. Smirnovs Burisma claims were a focus of public attention in the House GOP investigation of Hunter Biden and related impeachment inquiry into the president. Smirnovs arrest has raised concerns about the validity of other claims in the investigation, though House Oversight Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) said the committees impeachment claims are not based on Smirnovs allegations. Comer said the FBI previously refused to release an unredacted version of Smirnovs allegations, citing his privacy as a confidential source. The FBI had this form for years and it appears they did nothing to verify the troubling claims contained within the record until Congress became aware of and demanded access to them, Comer said in a statement last week. To be clear, the impeachment inquiry is not reliant on the FBIs FD-1023, he continued, referring to Smirnovs claims. DOJ prosecutors also argued that Smirnov should be detained because he previously made plans to travel outside the U.S. to meet with multiple foreign intelligence agencies that were capable of relocating him outside the U.S. They further claimed that Smirnov has access to about $6 million in funds, far beyond the $6,500 he claimed to have in pre-trial documents, which would allow him to live abroad should he not be detained. Smirnovs detention hearing was scheduled for Tuesday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ksenia Karelina had been looking forward to spending New Year's Eve with her family. Though she'd long ago chosen to settle in the USA, she'd kept in touch with her relatives back in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Instead, it appears that the 32-year-old dual citizen is confined in a Russian jail cell on charges of high treason all for allegedly sending $51.80 to a Ukrainian charity. "She's just that kind of person," Karelina's former mother-in-law Eleonara Srebroski, 56, tells The Independent. "If somebody needs help, she will be helping. Whether it's an animal, or a child, or a grown-up, she's the one who is always opening her heart and her wallet." According to Russian human rights activists, Karelina also known as Ksenia Khavana, after her first husband was arrested on public order charges in late January outside a cinema in Yekaterinburg, before being charged with treason this month. The country's notorious Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed in a statement this week that an unnamed woman, later identified by Russian media as Karelina, had been "proactively collecting funds" for the Ukrainian war effort. Now Srebroski has a stark message for the government and people of her former daughter-in-law's adopted nation. "If we do not do anything, she is going to die in jail," she says. "She does not have any hope to get out, because they do not have any justice [in Russia]. "And if we as a country do not help her to come back here, to where she is... we're going to lose a beautiful person." (Ksenia Karelina via Facebook) She is just sunshine Ksenia Karelina appeared in Srebroski's life back in 2012, when she visited the older woman's Baltimore home hand in hand with Srebroski's son Evgeny Khavana. The young woman had come to the USA from Russia on a work and travel programme, where she met Evgeny. As it happened, she and Srebroski originally came from the same region: the Ural mountains, of which Yekaterinburg is the district capital. Though Karelina and Evgeny married in 2013, the relationship didn't last, and she eventually moved to California. Still, they remained friends, and Karelina made an effort to keep in touch with Srebroski, reaching out for birthdays and other holidays. "She is the one who will never be rude to anyone. She is just sunshine; full of love, positivity, smiles, care," says Srebroski, who has lived in the US for 24 years. She refers to Karelina as "Ksyusha", the diminutive form of Ksenia. "I don't know anybody who would not like her. I'm actually the one who is supposed to dislike her, because she is my ex daughter-in-law. And I still adore her, because of her personality." Over the years, Karelina built a new life for herself out in Los Angeles. She worked at a luxury hotel spa in Beverly Hills, often posting joyful photos in Facebook. Having attended dance school as a child, she passionately pursued her hobby of ballet, and travelled keenly across the US and beyond. In 2021, she became a US citizen. "She's a very good friend," says Srebroski. "Funny, outgoing, sincere, kind. Smiling all the time, finding good in anything. "She was happy when she was selling fruit and vegetables off of a food stand here [in Baltimore] as a student... she will always be happy in any circumstances." Accused of petty hooliganism, then treason Karelina was meant to return from Russia by the beginning of February, having spent the new year with her parents, grandparents, and youngest sister. That is according to Srebroski, who has not spoken personally to Karelina in more than a year but says her son was in the loop about her travel plans. When he didn't hear from her, he was confused until the news broke about her arrest. Isabella Koretz, Karelina's boss at the Ciel Spa in Beverly Hills, gave a slightly different account of her travel plans, telling local broadcaster KTLA that her company became concerned when Karelina did not show up for work as planned in mid-January. Karalina celebrates her US citizenship in 2021 (Ksenia Karelina via Facebook/First Department) According to Russian media, Karelina was originally accused of "petty hooliganism". Court officials said she had used "coarse, obscene language in front of other citizens, and was behaving rudely and defiantly." The officials further claimed that she violently resisted arrest. On 29 January she was reportedly found guilty and sentenced to 14 days in jail. Things appeared to change after she filed a complaint about her arrest with the court. The FSB now claims that she donated money to Razom, a Ukrainian aid charity based in New York City, on the day of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The charity raises money for humanitarian aid and medical equipment, and its website says that it sometimes provides the latter to Ukrainian military units as well as civilian emergency services. Razom's chief executive Dora Chomiak told the New York Post that she was "appalled" by Karelina's arrest, and called on the US government to "do everything in its power" to secure her release, along with others who have been "unjustly detained". "Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly shown that he holds no sovereign border, foreign nationality, or international treaty above his own narrow interest. His regime attacks civil society activists who stand up for freedom and democracy," she said. If we dont help her, nobody else will Speaking to The Independent, Srebroski declines to discuss the details of Karelina's alleged donation, because she did not want to put her in danger. But she says Karelina had regularly donated to a wide range of GoFundMe pages and other charitable causes, including helping Srebroski herself when she was diagnosed with cancer 12 years ago. "She was keeping in touch with me to check how I'm doing, medically and physically, all the time, because she's just a very compassionate person. Very sincere, sympathetic," Srebroski said. Indeed, Karelina's Facebook page showed several posts linking to fundraising pages before it became inaccessible on Tuesday evening. Asked what message she would give to Karelina's captors, Srebroski says she has nothing because there is "no point". "I cannot talk to my family who are in Russia. They're brainwashed, they think we are enemies," she says. "I have a very hard time communicating with my sister and my childhood friends, because they think I'm a traitor since I myself support Ukraine. "So if I have to talk to the officials, what can I tell them that they don't already know? The whole country is covered with lies. They trust what they've been told on TV... they believe everything, even things that do not make any sense." She is scornful about American TV host Tucker Carlson's recent interview with Vladimir Putin, which even the Russian dictator criticised as too soft and whose release coincided, deliberately or otherwise, with Karelina's treason charges. The unexplained death in prison of famed opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week which supporters have blamed squarely on Putin underscores the potential consequences for those who defy the Russian government. For now, Srebroski says she wants to make as much noise as possible to bring attention to Karelina's plight. "Things are getting cruel there," she says. "I mean, it's been tough all the time, but now it's even more devastating and drastic. So I'm very concerned that she will go through a lot of physical abuse there... "If we do not help her as a country, because she's an American citizen, nobody else will." GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) Donald Trump doubled down Tuesday on comparing his criminal indictments to the circumstances of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, the top political opponent of Russias autocratic leader Vladimir Putin who died in a remote arctic prison after being jailed by the Kremlin leader. Appearing on a Fox News Channel town hall pre-taped before a live audience in Greenville, South Carolina, Trump bemoaned Navalnys death, which President Joe Biden and other Western leaders have blamed on Putin. Trump then pivoted to himself, repeating his assertions that the prosecutions against him are driven by politics despite no evidence that Biden or the White House ordered them. Navalny is a very sad situation and hes very brave, he was a very brave guy, Trump said in response to a question from Fox News Channel's Laura Ingraham. He went back, he could have stayed away, and frankly probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that could happen, and it did happen. And its a horrible thing, but its happening in our country, too, Trump continued, suggesting his criminal indictments which include two cases stemming from his efforts to overturn his 2020 defeat are proof that the U.S. is turning into a communist country in many ways. I got indicted four times ... all because of the fact that Im in politics, Trump said. They indicted me on things that are so ridiculous. He extended the comparison to his loss in a civil fraud trial last week, in which a New York judge ordered Trump to pay $355 million in penalties after finding he lied about his wealth for years. With interest, Trump owes the state about $454 million. It is a form of Navalny," Trump said. "It is a form of communism, of fascism. He did not give a clear answer when asked whether he would post a bond covering the judgment, which is one way hed be able to avoid having to pay the full amount while he appeals. Trump made no mention of Putin, part of his longstanding pattern of refusing to denounce and often complimenting the Russian leader going back to when he was in the White House. But his remarks come as House Republicans have refused to provide more funding to Ukraine in its defense against Russia's invasion and as many in the Republican Party grow more accepting of Russian expansionism. Putin recently suggested he preferred Biden in the White House to Trump. U.S. intelligence assessments of both the 2016 and 2020 elections found that Russia was behind influence operations to boost Trump at the expense of his Democratic Party opponents. Ingraham interrupted Trump at the town hall Tuesday to ask whether he believed he could become a potential political prisoner for the rest of his life like Navalny. Trump sidestepped the question. If I were losing in the polls, they wouldnt even be talking about me and I wouldnt have had any legal fees, he answered. If I were out, I think although they hate me so much, I think if I got out theyd still, lets pursue this guy, we cant stand this guy. The Fox town hall, recorded Tuesday afternoon and broadcast during Ingraham's primetime hour on the network, marked Trump's first extended remarks about Navalny since Russian officials announced his death. The town hall came four days before Trump competes against Nikki Haley in South Carolina's Republican presidential primary. Ingraham began the discussion by offering Trump, who has praised Putin for years as a strong leader, a chance to clarify his only previous public reference to Navalny's demise. In a social media post 72 hours after Russian officials confirmed Navalny had died, Trump broke his silence without mentioning Putin or Navalny's family. The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country, he wrote before blasting CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction and repeating his false claims that U.S. elections are riddled with fraud. ___ Cooper reported from Phoenix. As Donald Trumps legal troubles consume more and more of his time, theyre also consuming more of his donors moneyand theres a huge hole in the bucket. On Tuesday, Trumps Save America leadership political action committee reported raising just $8,508 from donors in the entire month of January, while spending about $3.9 million, according to a new filing with the Federal Election Commission. Inside Donald Trumps Incredible Cash Crunch Nearly $3 million of that overall spending total was used for one purpose: to pay lawyers. At the same time, the Trump campaign itself reported a net loss of more than $2.6 million for the month of January. It raised about $8.8 million while spending around $11.5 million, according to a separate filing made public on Tuesday. The filings reveal that Trump is continuing to burn through his donors funds as he struggles to feed two massive cash drainsastronomical legal bills stemming from numerous civil cases and four criminal indictments, plus the costs of a national presidential campaign. After the Trump filings were released on Tuesday evening, his sole primary challenger, Nikki Haley, flashed a sign of strength, with her campaign reporting $11.5 million in receipts last month. It is the first-ever fundraising period where Haleys campaign outraised Trump. Despite reporting almost no donations in January, the Save America PACa group Trump launched days after the 2020 election, ostensibly to fund legal challengesactually increased its bottom line by more than $1 million, ending the month with nearly $6.3 million on hand. However, that increase cant be chalked up to new donations. Its entirely due to a $5 million transfer from a different pro-Trump super PAC, which is still in the process of refunding $60 million that the former president demanded back last year, as his legal bills threatened to put Save America, his legal slush fund, into bankruptcy. The super PAC has been kicking that refund back in $5 million installments beginning late last spring, but that emergency bailout wont last, eitherthe full refund is set to be completed by June. Theres another metric for the depth of Trumps financial strain: Save America itself had to bail out yet another one of Trumps PACs, transferring $500,000 to his old campaign committee in the middle of January. That group, called Make America Great Again PAC, started the year with only about $570,000 in the bank, so the mid-month injection from the sputtering Save America suggests that MAGA PAC might very well be in danger of bottoming out too. A Trump spokesperson didnt immediately respond to a comment request. The Truth About Trumps RNC Shakeupand Why the GOP Will Suffer As he heads into his third consecutive presidential campaign, its safe to say Trumps cash apparatus is complicated. At this point, the Save America PAC exists almost exclusively to cover the former presidents legal bills, but Trump also has to fund his political campaign. He does that by raising the bulk of his money through a joint fundraising committee, which automatically splits the proceeds90 percent goes to the campaign, with Save America cleaning up the other 10 percent, according to the terms of online solicitations. Last month, however, the joint fundraising committee didnt send any money to Save America, the latest filings show, though it did transfer about $8.5 million to the Trump campaign. This suggests Save America might still have as much as $850,000 headed its way from January fundraising effortsa drop in the bucket, considering the ferocious burn rate of those legal costs. Trumps cash crunch is hitting at a terrible time. Recent weeks have seen two massive legal judgments against the former president. First came the $83.3 million sum for the writer E. Jean Carroll, whom he was found liable for sexually abusing and defaming; that was followed weeks later with a whopping $355 million fine for years of business fraud in New York. Along with interest and other costs, those two rulings alone could set Trump back as much as $600 million. While Trump is a billionaire, his choice to pass his legal costs on to his donors is threatening to derail the GOPs national fundraising efforts. Trump is now attempting a takeover of the Republican National Committee, planting MAGA loyalists and even his own daughter-in-law at the top echelons of party leadership. Trumps $50 Million Mystery Debt Looks Like Tax Evasion The Daily Beast previously reported that this self-interested maneuvering could severely constrain the RNC as the national party struggles to unify behind its beleaguered standard-bearer during a monumental election cycle. But Trump cant raise money with the party until he officially secures the nomination, which could happen as soon as March. And a breakdown of the Trump campaigns spending last month shows that the primary contest is taking its toll, even as that competition winnowed to just Haley. The campaigns biggest January line item was the nearly $4.7 million spent for placed media, which accounts for TV ad spending. Another roughly $820,000 went out the door for audio visual support at events, $602,000 for video production, nearly $550,000 in travel-related expenses, and more than $450,000 for polling services. The campaign also shelled out about $15,000 for teleprompter services, a sharp increase over recent months, as Trump held rallies to bolster support as primary voting got underway. Outside of those direct political costs, however, the campaigns biggest expense was the $830,000 it also dropped on lawyers. 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. Several surprising endorsements and the departure of a couple of candidates from the race are shaking up the election to replace retired Rep. Kevin McCarthy. Former President Donald Trump entered the fray Tuesday with an endorsement of Assemblyman Vince Fong, R-Bakersfield, in Californias 20th Congressional District, further boosting the Republican Assemblyman who has been the frontrunner in the race. Fong, 44, has also been endorsed by McCarthy, who retired in 2023 following his ousting as House Speaker. Fong served as McCarthys district director for nearly a decade before joining the Legislature. But his congressional candidacy faces a legal challenge from Californias secretary of state. Trump wrote on Truth Social, his social media site, that now is the time to unite around Vince Fong and elect a true Republican to this seat. The endorsement comes after two high-profile figures in Kern County, where Bakersfield and Fongs home base is, instead threw their support behind Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux. Two candidates on the March 5 primary ballot have also recently dropped out and endorsed Boudreaux, a Republican who has been in law enforcement in Tulare County for almost four decades. Though it is too late for their names to be removed, America First businessman David Giglio and no-party-preference businessman T.J. Esposito said last week that they would no longer run for the seat. Despite initially expressing some concerns regarding Sheriff Boudreauxs motives for entering this race, I can now say with complete certainty that he is a good man and is in this race for the right reasons, Giglio said in a statement. Another candidate for the 20th, Kern County entrepreneur Stan Ellis, endorsed Fong in December. The thinning out of the race comes after Kern Countys Sheriff Donny Youngblood and State Sen. Shannon Grove, R-Bakersfield, backed Boudreaux, 56, over Fong in a surprise twist. Kern County, where Youngblood and Grove are based, is Fongs home. Grove also worked with Fong in the Legislature, and Fong had initially left the door open for her to run, only announcing his bid for Congress after she had said she would not. The legal challenge against Fong The race is complicated by a legal challenge to Fongs candidacy by California Secretary of State Shirley Weber that could end his bid. In December, before filing under an extended deadline as a candidate in Californias 20th, Fong qualified to run for re-election to the Assembly. Weber said Fong could neither remove himself from the Assembly race nor be on the ballot for different seats under the elections code. She said he could not run in the 20th. A Sacramento County Superior Court disagreed with the secretary of states decision and granted Fongs request to run for Congress while remaining on the ballot for the Assembly. The secretary of state, up against a deadline, included Fongs name on the list of candidates for both Californias 20th and the 32nd Assembly district, which he currently represents. Weber asked an appeals court last month to erase the Sacramento judges ruling and drop Fong as a congressional candidate for the November general election by April 12. If that request is granted, Weber would block Fong from the November ballot. Who is leading the polls to replace McCarthy? Results of an Emerson College Polling survey released at the end of January had 27% of respondents voting for Fong. Boudreaux and Democrat Marisa Wood, a Bakersfield school teacher, each had 11% but 35% of respondents said they were undecided. The 20th, Californias most Republican district, takes parts of Kern, Kings, Tulare and Fresno counties. There are two elections for Californias 20th. The March 5 primary is for a full two-year term that starts in January 2025. Another primary on March 19 is for the remainder of McCarthys current term, which ends in January 2025. The secretary of states challenge to Fongs candidacy only applies to the March 5 election. Republicans Fong, Boudreaux and Fresno casino owner Kyle Kirkland are running in both, as are Democrat Wood and no-party-preference candidate Ben Dewell. Republicans only listed for the March 5 primary are Giglio, Ellis, California City Mayor Kelly Kulikoff and former fighter pilot Matt Stoll. Democrat Andy Morales, a security guard, and Esposito, who is now running as a write-in candidate for the 32nd Assembly district, are also on the ballot for the full term. Candidates listed for only the special election are Republican Anna Zoe Cohen, a high school employee, Democrat Harmesh Kumar, a clinical psychologist and businessman, and no-party-preference candidates James V. Cardoza, a real estate photographer, and David J. Fluhart, a cannabis grower. Fong, Boudreaux, Wood and Morales will debate at KGET TV studios in Bakersfield on Thursday night from 7 to 8 p.m. Donald Trump raised eyebrows with his latest brazen boast to Fox News personality Laura Ingraham on Tuesday. During a discussion on the multiple criminal and civil cases the former president is facing, the four-times-indicted Republican front-runner declared: Ive become an expert at law. The comment sparked a ripple of laughter from the friendly audience. If I didnt run, I wouldnt have any of these lawsuits, you know that, none of them, Trump added, a repetition of his baseless claim that President Joe Biden is directing the 91 criminal charges. Bidens campaign shared footage of the moment on X, formerly Twitter. Trump says his 91 felony indictments make him an expert at law, it captioned the clip, which was one of many offbeat Trump comments it posted from the televised town hall. Watch the video here: Trump says his 91 felony indictments make him an expert at law pic.twitter.com/fR8D3lmHkf Biden-Harris HQ (@BidenHQ) February 21, 2024 During the same interview, Trump likened himself to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, went off once again about water pressure and was corrected by Ingraham on a claim about mail-in voting. Bidens campaign has ramped up its attacks on Trump in recent weeks, with the president reportedly asking aides to point out the crazy shit his likely 2024 rival says in public. Critics on X, meanwhile, questioned Trumps definition of expert and suggested why he could be a specialist on legal matters but for the wrong reasons. An expert at *breaking the law. There, I fixed it. https://t.co/XzVKsukpOV Sarah Larchmont (@SarahLarchmont) February 21, 2024 Trump said hes become an expert at lawprobably because he spends the majority of his time in a damn courtroom and has had hundreds of lawyers! Emmyjo (@Road_trippn) February 21, 2024 There are at least 100,000 people in prison right now who told their lawyers the same thing while ignoring their advice. https://t.co/gehrptywzB Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) February 21, 2024 Better than law schoolget indicted 91 times https://t.co/B5RLiCTwrr Tom Matzzie (@tommatzzie) February 21, 2024 Trump isnt an expert on anything. Art Candee (@ArtCandee) February 21, 2024 Well thats good, because your lawyers sure arent experts at law. https://t.co/u5bKUyGbj7 Rosalind (not indicted) Garcia (@GarciaRosalind) February 21, 2024 Getting destroyed in court over & over makes you an expert at being a guilty loser. Totally on brand for Mr. Trump. Jeffrey (@LiftForever67) February 21, 2024 I have great law skills. Im the best at law. No one has ever known law like me. Everyone knows it. People tell me all the time. https://t.co/IUQDIz2Sza Mr Jeff (@dspatrol) February 21, 2024 Nobody would EVER confuse Donald Trump with being an expert at law. pic.twitter.com/V7qxvcLWAD Cryptid Politics (@CryptidPolitics) February 21, 2024 An expert at breaking the law perhaps https://t.co/nCc3Ut9q4c Raj Lakra (@RajLakra) February 21, 2024 The laugh track to this clip is Seinfeld-esque. https://t.co/icWRn1MVrq MaTT FLaMMaBLe (@MaTTFLaMMaBLe) February 21, 2024 Related... Dream job alert! Get paid $10,000 to capture US solar eclipse with BFF from private helicopter Dream job alert! Grab your BFF and prepare to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to capture the upcoming total solar eclipse from a private helicopter. You and your thrill-seeking bestie could also receive a shared $10,000 payday, if selected as Days Inn's newest "solar Sun-terns." The chosen "Sun and Moon duo" will experience a best-seat-in-the-house for the rare celestial spectacle on April 8. A 360-degree view of the peak total solar eclipse from a helicopter will be provided as you share your unparalleled view of the path of totality on social media. PASSENGERS SELL OUT DELTA AIR LINES FLIGHT OFFERING TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE VIEWING FLIGHT AT 30,000 FEET Members of two vacationing families observe the partial solar eclipse at through some hand-improved solar glasses at Old Orchard Beach, Maine. (Staff photo by Ben McCanna/Portland Portland Press Herald via Getty Images) "Since 2018, our Sun-ternship program has helped travel-obsessed photographers Seize the Days with once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities," Days Inn President John Henderson said. "This year, were elevating the job to new heights, giving not just one but two Sun-terns a front-row seat to capture and share the magic of the eclipse." It is estimated that between one and four million Americans will travel to see the once-in-a-generation occurrence, according to the hotel chain. The path of totality, which is the area where the solar eclipse is most visible, spans across 200 miles and crosses through five North American time zones like a celestial ribbon. The path goes through major cities such as San Antonio, Little Rock, Cleveland and Montreal, Canada. The next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S. will happen on Aug. 12, 2045. WILL WEATHER COOPERATE FOR TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN APRIL? If working side-by-side with your thrill-seeking and solar eclipse enthusiast wasn't enough, your Sun-ternship also includes professional photography classes, hotel accommodation, a travel stipend and lots of swag. One of the most important responsibilities for this job is being comfortable working at heights. WHERE YOU ARE LIKELY TO SEE THE APRIL TOTAL ECLIPSE BASED ON CLOUD COVER FORECASTS FILE - The totality stage of the solar eclipse over the U.S. on Aug. 21, 2017, in Jefferson City, Missouri. The selected duo will travel to San Antonio from April 7-9 and document their experience with photo and video content for the hotel chain's social channels. Click here to learn more and apply by March 5. Original article source: Dream job alert! Get paid $10,000 to capture US solar eclipse with BFF from private helicopter One person was killed Tuesday when two trucks crashed, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The two-vehicle collision happened at about 11:30 a.m. in Barnwell County, said Lance Cpl. Brittany Glover. A 2020 Honda Ridgeline was driving east on Poplar Road, and when it crossed the intersection with S.C. 3 the pickup truck collided with a 2005 International box truck, according to Glover. The box truck was driving north on S.C. 3, Glover said. The driver of the Honda pickup died at the scene, Glover said. The Barnwell County Coroners Office has not publicly identified the pickup driver. Glover said the box truck driver was not hurt, and no other injuries were reported. There was no word if either of the drivers were wearing seat belts. Glover did not say if the Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash. Through Saturday, 103 people had died on South Carolina roads in 2024, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Last year, 999 people died in crashes in South Carolina, DPS reported. At least three people have died in Barnwell County crashes in 2024, according to DPS data. There were five deaths reported in the county in 2023, DPS reported. A RAND Corp. study found some 125 million American adults know at least one person who died by overdose. For many, it was a devastating loss. File Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI NEW YORK, Feb. 21 (UPI) -- More than 40% of Americans know someone who died of a drug overdose, and about one-third of them say it upended their lives, a new study says. The results of the study by RAND Corp., a nonprofit research organization in Santa Monica, Calif., were published Wednesday in the American Journal of Public Health. In reviewing a national representative survey of American adults, researchers noted that the lifetime exposure to an overdose death is more common among women than men. It also is more frequent among married participants than unmarried counterparts, U.S.-born survey respondents than immigrants and people living in urban settings as opposed to those in rural areas. The rates of exposure were significantly higher in New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont) and in the East South Central region (Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee) than in other parts of the nation. Overdose bereavement is very common and often has a negative impact on well-being, said the studys lead author, Alison Athey, an associate behavioral scientist at RAND Corp. Photo courtesy of RAND Corp. "Overdose bereavement is very common and often has a negative impact on well-being," the study's lead author, Alison Athey, an associate behavioral scientist at RAND, told UPI via email. "Efforts to help people grieve overdose deaths may be an important part of overdose prevention programs and policies." So far, however, the clinical and public health response has neglected the needs of millions of overdose loss survivors, she said. The study's findings call for more research into the prevalence and consequences of overdose loss, especially among groups that are disproportionately affected. "Many grass-roots efforts to address overdose bereavement are led by people who have lost someone to overdose," Athey said. "They deserve support from researchers, health systems, public health and policy leaders." That type of support could be an important part of turning the tide of overdose deaths. Researchers asked 2,072 adults who participate in the RAND American Life Panel about whether they knew someone who had died of a drug overdose and to explain how the death affected their lives. Results were weighted based on participants' demographics, so that the findings reflect the characteristics of the U.S. adult population, Athey said, adding that "census data were used to produce estimates of the number of U.S adults who knew someone who died by overdose and of the impact of these losses." Of the respondents, 42.4% reported personally knowing at least one person who died by overdose, translating to some 125 million American adults who have encountered such a loss. The study found that 13% of those who replied had experienced a disruption in their lives from an overdose loss. More than 4% of survey respondents conveyed that the loss caused a lingering significant or devastating effect. In 2022, more than 109,000 people died from a drug overdose, and more than 1.1 million overdose deaths have been reported since 2000, according to the researchers. The researchers surveyed a relatively small number of people, making it difficult to apply the results to an entire population. But they should be commended for broaching a topic that doesn't receive much attention -- the emotional fallout on those left behind, Dr. Kevin Zacharoff, a clinical assistant professor and anesthesiologist at Stony Brook University's Renaissance School of Medicine in Stony Brook, N.Y., told UPI in a telephone interview. "More people are impacted than we might think," said Zacharoff, who directs a pain and addiction course. He cited a societal burden from overdose deaths, saying, "There's a potential for a much larger ripple effect than we might be imagining." The researchers "highlight a crucial, yet overlooked, vulnerable group -- those who have lost someone by overdose death," said Dr. Nidal Moukaddam, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Future studies should involve children dealing with the loss of an individual to overdose. "The loss can trigger further family instability in addition to personal grief," Moukaddam said. "Those factors, in turn, can promote and exacerbate intergenerational substance use." Dr. Jody Glance, an associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, said this is the first study she has seen that demonstrates "the wide-reaching effects of drug overdose on survivors on such a broad level." The study also represents "a first step toward tracking outcomes and developing interventions to support people who are dealing with this type of traumatic loss," said Glance, who also is clinical chief of addiction medicine services at UPMC Western Behavioral Health in Pittsburgh. "People who aren't family members or spouses might feel like they have to hide their grief in some ways -- that it doesn't count or isn't as bad for them as for people closer to the inner circle," she said. "But it's still extremely painful." The opioid overdose crisis is killing tens of thousands of Americans every year, with that number increasing amid a broken addiction treatment system, said Dr. Michael Barnett, an associate professor of health policy and management at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. "This addiction crisis is not someone else's problem. If not you, it's someone you know," Barnett said. "It's a problem for all of us." A methamphetamine trafficker who pleaded guilty to selling drugs has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. He was sentenced on Friday. Chrisitian Allen Meers, 45, pleaded guilty on the eve of his trial in September 2023 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, according to the DOJ. Court documents say Meers would move from hotel to hotel every few days to hide his drug trafficking operations from police, according to the DOJ. On June 14, 2023, Meers and an associate were pulled over in Fort Worth after a traffic violation. The officers found a key to a nearby La Quinta Inn and were told by the associate that there was a stash of methamphetamine in the hotel room. Officers searched the room and found a Louis Vuitton bag with plastic baggies containing what totaled to more than 4,500 grams of methamphetamine, along with two stolen guns, the DOJ said. A new challenger has entered the competition in increasing Florida's coffee consumption meet Dutch Bros Coffee. The West Coast chain is set to celebrate its first Florida location this month, opening up a location in Davenport, about 35 miles outside of Orlando. The new coffee shop will be located at 2800 Jacks Road and locally operated by Chandell Nganga, according a Orlando Business Journal report. The coffee shop is not open as of yet. Although this coffee franchise is primarily located in the western region of the country, they have expanded as far east as Tennessee and Alabama. Not sure why westerners go crazy over the chain? Here's what to know about Dutch Bros. What is Dutch Bros? Dutch Bros was founded in Oregon by two brothers Dutch Bros is a drive-through coffee chain headquartered in Grants Pass, Oregon. For those wondering, it's actually just "Dutch Bros" and not just short for Dutch Brothers. The story of Dutch Bros' begins with its founders, Dane and Travis Boersma. According to their website, the brothers started the company back in 1992 with a pushcart by the railroad tracks. They eventually left their family's dairy business to pursue coffee making full-time. They built a coffee stand in Grants Pass, Oregon, and started serving coffee, former company President Joth Ricci said on the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive last year. They did everything through the lens of service. From Day One this business was about fun, about culture, about experience. What states have Dutch Bros in them? The chain has grown to over 800 across 17 states Dutch Bros opened on James Campbell Boulevard in Columbia the week of June 22. A line wraps around the signature blue-box building on June 26, 2023. Dutch Bros is no longer a small pushcart on the side of the road. As of December 2023, there are roughly 835 Dutch Bros coffee shops located throughout in the United States. According to Nation's Restaurant News, the chain has plans to 4,000 stores within next 10 to 15 years. Their market research firm, Datassential, also put Dutch Bros behind Starbucks and Dunkin among the top U.S. coffee and bakery chains. What does Dutch Bros serve? Their most popular drink is the 'Golden Eagle Breve' Dutch Bros features an extensive menu of espressos, blended coffee, iced teas, lattes, and other standard drinks, as well as pastry items. Here's some items that will be available the upcoming Florida locations: CARAMELIZER - Carmel Mocha coffee ANNIHILATOR - Chocolate Macadamia Nut Breve coffee KICKER - Irish Cream Breve coffee COCOMO - Coconut Mocha PICTURE PERFECT - Caramel & Chocolate Drizzle blended coffee ELECTRIC BERRY - Lime & Blue Raspberry Red Bull drink SHARK ATTACK - Blue Raspberry, Coconut, Lime w/ Pomegranate Float Red Bull drink PALM BEACH - Pomegranate & Peach lemonade Strawberry, Apple, Mango and Peach smoothies Want to play it safe for your first time at the coffee chain? Try the "Golden Eagle Breve," which they list as their most popular drink. "The Golden Eagle Breve is our version of a (insert traditional drink here) a vanilla and caramel breve with caramel drizzle," Their website says. "What could be better?" Dutch Bros has gained a cult fanbase. Employees are known as 'broistas' Jason McCoy, Senior Resource Development Director with United Way of Amarillo and Canyon (left) accepts his coffee from Dutch Bros employee (right) at fundraiser benefitting United Way Friday morning at the Dutch Bros Coulter Interstate location. Once the chain makes its debut in Davenport, Floridians can finally join the "Dutch Mafia," which is what their loyal fanbase is dubbed. The chain is known, and highly praised, for its positive, laid-back culture. For example, employees are known as broistas. They are trained by more experienced broistas who are known as The Mob. The accolades and acclaim aren't for no reason. Brand Credential shares that employees are trained to prioritize creating memorable experiences for customers. "Behind the scenes, Dutch Bros invests in its employees' personal and professional growth. The company provides ongoing training and development opportunities, empowering its workforce to excel in their roles," Justin McLaughlin writes about the company's dedication to consistent and authentic customer experience. Speaking of employees, how much do they make? Here's what to expect if you apply If you want to be a member of Dutch Mafia, you can work for the beloved beverage company and become a "brorista." Glassdoor estimates the total pay range for a Barista at Dutch Bros is $18 to $24 per hour, which includes base salary and additional pay. Their website does highlight benefits one could receive if they work for the company, such as: After one year of employment, you are eligible for up to $5,250 per year toward education Every month, you can get new merchandise for free You will get 16 paid volunteer hours to use Employee discount of drinks and online shop To apply for a job at Dutch Bros, visit dutchbros.com/apply. Think you've heard of them before? They were featured on the television show Undercover Boss If you are fans of reality shows or just watched a ton of cable television in 2013, you might have gotten a snapshot of the coffee company already. Over a decade ago, Travis Boersma went on season five of the show "Undercover Boss" to learn what keeps his high-energy coffee chain brewing. Started a fundraiser in memory of co-founder who was diagnosed with ALS Dane Boersma passed away from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2009. Dutch Bros and the Boersma family started Drink One for Dane started in 2007 as a way to increase awareness of the disease, raise support for those affected and to support research to find treatments and cures for ALS. "Each year, we're so inspired by the support our customers have for Drink One for Dane," Katie Hutchison, vice president of philanthropy at Dutch Bros Coffee, said last year. "We deeply admire the work MDA does for those impacted by ALS." Is Dutch Bros coming to other parts of Florida? Coffee chain is set to take over Orlando, Clermont and St. Augustine Is Davenport the only Florida city that gets to join the Dutch Mafia? Don't worry, other cities will get to enjoy a Golden Eagle Breve. Their website lists these upcoming Florida locations: Clermont - 3064 SOUTH US HWY 27 Winter Park - 104 S SEMORAN BLVD St. Augustine - 50 MCCOY WAY There are also said to be plans for Dutch Bros in Jacksonville, Gainesville and Tampa, according to each city's permitting website. This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Dutch Bros: New location outside Orlando, 3 Florida sites coming. A steady flow of voters makes their way in to vote during the first day of early voting for the November election in Franklin County. You can still vote early in Ohio's March 19 primary election. Voters will decide on the presidential race as well as races for the U.S. Senate, Congress, Ohio House, Ohio Senate, Ohio Supreme Court and county races and local issues. To check your voter registration, go to voteohio.gov or call your county board of elections. The deadline to register to vote has passed. For the primary election, you will need to choose a Republican, Democratic or issues-only ballot. Note that some races in your precinct may not be contested. How to vote by mail in Ohio You can call your county board of elections and have an absentee ballot mailed to you or you can request one at voteohio.gov. Absentee ballot applications must be received by boards of election by 8:30 p.m. on March 12. Completed absentee ballots must be received by boards of election by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, March 19. Ballots cannot be turned in at polling places on Election Day but can be returned to county board offices in person on Election Day. Absentee ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by March 18 and received by March 23 to be counted. STAY INFORMED Sign up for our week Scoop newsletter for the latest on Ohio politics How to vote early in-person in Ohio Absentee ballots can be cast in-person at local board of elections offices or the county's designated early voting center. Feb 21, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; The main entrance to the Franklin County Board of Elections. All locations in the state have the same hours, which have been extended into the evening starting March 11: March 11: 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. March 12: 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. March 13-15: 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. March 16: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. March 17: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. New voter ID law A new state law no longer allows voters to use utility bills and other documents as identification to receive a ballot. Now, a photo ID is required for in-person voting, either on Election Day or during the early voting period at county boards of election. To cast a ballot by mail, voters can provide a copy of their photo ID, driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Free state IDs are available to residents at local Bureau of Motor Vehicles deputy registrar locations. More information can be found at bmv.ohio.gov. Voting on Election Day, March 19 If you want to wait to vote on Election Day, March 19, the polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. You can find your polling place at voteohio.gov. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: How do I vote early in Ohio? Early voting hours extended on March 11 RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) With the in-person early voting period underway in North Carolina ahead of the Mar. 5 primary, data from the NC State Board of Elections shows turnout is down slightly compared to four years ago. So far, there have been about 113,000 ballots cast in person and by mail. At the same point in 2020, there were about 120,000 ballots cast. The presidential and gubernatorial primaries are just not that competitive. So, I think that affects the overall turnout, said Meredith College political expert David McLennan. We may end up at or slightly below 2020, but thats not a bad turnout. The NCSBE says in 2020, about 31% of registered voters participated in the primary. In polling McLennan has done, he says slightly fewer people surveyed have said theyre likely to vote this time. He noted some key differences compared to other recent elections. We compare to 2022 or 2020, a lot of the campaigning is not as visible as it was. So, we dont see a lot of these big events like we saw in 2020 for example, he said. Some candidates are really kind of on social media but not doing a lot of live events. So, I think its a different kind of campaign season. And, I think thats affecting the kind of voter thats not already connected with a candidate who may just be looking around or shopping. Of the people turning out so far, 37% are registered Democrats, 35% are Republicans and 27% are unaffiliated, according to NCSBE. Catawba College political expert Michael Bitzer further analyzed the turnout data. Unaffiliated voters in North Carolina can choose in which partys primary theyd like to participate. Overall, about 53% of ballots cast have been in the Republican primary compared to the Democratic primary. Further, Baby Boomers make up 59% of all voters whove participated so far. McLennan pointed out that overall Republicans have more competitive races this time, likely prompting some unaffiliated voters to choose that ballot. The Republican-led General Assembly redrew the states Congressional districts as well as the state legislative districts last year. That resulted in more of North Carolinas U.S. House districts favoring Republicans, making the primary critical in those races as they are not likely to be competitive in November. You know, I think theres also just a lot of confusion around this election cycle because the congressional districts have been redrawn. Some of the legislative districts are different, said McLennan. Chris Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University, pointed out that about two-thirds of unaffiliated voters are choosing the Republican ballot this time, while a similar amount chose the Democratic ballot in 2020 when the presidential race was hotly contested. Its crazy early, so these patterns are interesting but not predictive, he said on X. With voting underway, advocacy groups are trying to mobilize people and boost turnout. The Poor Peoples Campaign held a press conference Tuesday, announcing a new multi-state campaign. In North Carolina, theyre urging people to rally and turn out on Mar. 2 ahead of Super Tuesday. Rob Stephens, who represents Repairers of the Breach, chastised state House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Cleveland) for saying last week that he thinks there are too many days to vote in North Carolina. Moore told CBS 17 at the time, I would think that one week of early voting should be sufficient. I like early voting. I like making it easier to vote. But, I think its just too long at three weeks. It adds a lot of cost. North Carolinas in-person early voting period runs for 17 days. Stephens said if Republicans attempt to cut early voting again, then lawsuits would likely follow, which is what happened last time they made such a move. There are competitive races in the primary that people need to pay attention to, for the Council of State, for other positions locally, Stephens said. We absolutely need to vote and vote our values and vote our demands. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. City Manager Robert Betts has applied to be executive director of the troubled East St. Louis Public Housing Authority in a hiring process that has drawn scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, according to documents and emails obtained by the BND. At one point, Betts was improperly offered the job without approval from the housing authoritys board of commissioners, but the board rescinded it after a top HUD official raised multiple questions about it, emails and records show. Betts told the BND recently that he is eminently qualified for the directors post, but added he had no knowledge that he was being considered. I know nothing about that right now, Betts said. After a reporter told Betts that the BND knew he had applied, he responded: Thats a personnel matter, I am not discussing that, and later said I am exploring some options. The senior city officials candidacy, reported here publicly for the first time, is the latest controversy involving the troubled East St. Louis Housing Authority. Among others: The authority has had four major leadership changes since mid-2023. An authority director, an acting director and an interim director, plus a former Board of Commissioners chair, have left their posts for various reasons. Now the East St. Louis Housing Board of Commissioners is looking for a new executive director, but in recent weeks its new chair, Daphne Brown Wright, has recused herself from the process after William O. Dawson III, director of the Chicago regional office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, challenged her involvement. Brown Wright did not return phone calls seeking comment for this article. Dawson declined to comment for this story. HUD official challenges hiring process Betts is one of six people who are scheduled to be interviewed for the position by authority commissioners, according to a Feb. 6 e-mail from the East St. Louis Housing Authoritys lawyer, Barney Mundorf, to Dawson. Forty-four people applied for the position. In a series of e-mails obtained by the BND, Dawson has raised questions about the the selection process and possible conflicts of interest. The first e-mail followed Betts Dec. 29 letter to Dawson asking for a waiver or exception to HUD rules governing conflicts of interest so that as a city official, Betts could be considered for the position. In his letter, Betts acknowledged that he serves as city manager for the city of East St. Louis and has applied for the job as executive director. According to HUD regulations and under federal law, certain factors associated with potential employment as a contract employee may give rise to a perceived conflict of interest and should be disclosed, Betts said. Betts also pointed out that a conflict of interest may be waived for good cause, if permitted under state and local law. Betts cited the terminations of executive and interim executives at the housing aujthority as a reason for an unnecessary delay in fulfilling the mission of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing in a severely underserved and impoverished community. He called the situation at the housing authority a crisis and stated how his hiring would be a ``good cause. My experience with the existing problems of the HA and familiarity with the city of East St. Louis demographics and ability to navigate through the challenging environment uniquely qualifies as a good cause, Betts wrote. I am a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record of strategic leadership, project management, property management, public policy government operations, and community engagement, he wrote. In a Dec. 29 e-mail responding to Betts waiver request, Dawson wrote: Unfortunately HUD may not consider this request from any other entity except the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of East St. Louis. Dawsons e-mail, quoting from HUD regulations, stated its up to the East St. Louis Housing Authority to disclose, in writing, potential conflicts of interest to HUD. The email was copied to East St. Louis City Attorney John Baricevic and Mayor Charles Powell. The two officials did not respond to calls from a BND reporter seeking comment. Later, Betts was offered the executive director position without board approval, according to information included in a Jan. 30 email Dawson sent to Wright, other board members, and Mundorf. The BND has also obtained an unsigned letter to Betts, dated Jan. 26, that states ``On behalf of the East St. Louis Housing Authority, I am pleased to extend to you the offer of employment for the Executive Director. The offer is on authority letterhead and includes a Swansea address for Betts. Heres how Dawson put it in his Jan. 30 email: On Friday, January 26, 2024, on or about 4:30 p.m., you (Ms. Brown Wright) and I spoke and I inquired as to whether the Board of Commissioners of the HAESL had extended an offer of employment to current East St. Louis City Manager Robert Betts, the senior appointed public official in the City of East St. Louis, and you stated, yes we have extended Mr. Betts an offer for the Executive Director position and he has accepted. Board chair defends her actions in hiring process Dawson went on to question why Brown Wright contradicted herself in a Jan. 29 letter. Brown Wright stated in the letter, addressed to Dawson, that Betts had not been offered the position. ``The ESLHA has not extended an offer of employment to Mr. Betts, as that can only be done at a lawfully convened board meeting, the Jan. 29 letter states. We have expressed to Mr. Betts he is our top candidate, but he has not, as of todays date, been extended an offer of employment. She stated she did send Betts a letter confirming he was the top choice for executive director, contingent on background and drug checks and a final contract, ``which must be approved by the Board of Commissioners to be a binding employment offer. Dawson also challenged Brown Wrights involvement in the selection process, stating in a Jan. 30 e-mail it has come to our attention that you (Ms. Daphne Brown Wright) are or may be a City employee of the City of East St. Louis, working in a capacity that is directly or indirectly subordinate to City Manager Robert Betts. He went on to say if that is true, she should recuse herself from the selection process and rescind any ``offer letters, letter of interest, et al sent by you germane to the recruitment of City Manager Robert Betts as the Executive Director of the HAESL, tentative or otherwise. On Feb. 5, the East St. Louis Housing Authority Board of Commissioners held a closed session to discuss the executive director hiring process. Brown Wright recused herself at the start and left the meeting, according to a Feb. 6 e-mail from Mundorf to Dawson. She will not be involved in the selection process, Mundorfs e-mail states. The remaining Commissioners agreed to send Mr. Betts a letter to confirm his offer of employment as the Executive Director was sent to him premature and is revoked, the e-mail states. As you know, only the Board of Commissioners, by a majority vote at a properly convened meeting, can employee an Executive Director. Because the Board did not meet and did not vote to extend Mr. Betts an offer of employment, the letter extending the offer of employment is not legally binding and was premature. When asked by a reporter, Mundorf would say little about the information included in the e-mails and letters obtained by the BND. I dont have any information about that, he said. I know the Board of Commissioners is continuing the search process. No one has been appointed. Eric Long and his wife Kathy are driving five hours from Eldridge today, to Minnesota on a mission theyd rather not have to fulfill. Kathy and Eric Long of Metal4Valor, at the Eldridge Volunteer Fire Department on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). They are bringing large, handcrafted metal badges (made at their company, Premier Metal Art, 1018 E. Iowa St., Eldridge), to the police and fire departments in Burnsville, outside Minneapolis, to honor two officers and a firefighter recently killed in the line of duty. Two police officers and a firefighter who responded to a domestic situation at a suburban Minneapolis home were killed early Sunday during a standoff by a heavily armed man who shot at police from the home where seven children were also inside. The suspect is dead, and another police officer was injured in the shooting in a neighborhood in Burnsville, Minn., a city of about 64,000 people near Minneapolis. St. Paul Police Officer Anthony Buckley places a badge on a police vehicle that has become one of three memorials in front of the Burnsville Police Department in Burnsville, Minn., Monday, Feb. 19, 2024. Two Burnsville police officers, Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Burnsville Fire Department first responder paramedic, Adam Finseth, were shot and killed early Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, and a third officer, Adam Medlicott, was injured at a suburban Minneapolis home in an exchange of gunfire while responding to a call involving an armed man who had barricaded himself inside with family. (Photo by Elizabeth Flores/Star Tribune via Getty Images) Eric and Kathy Long founded Metal4Valor, which became a registered nonprofit organization in December 2023. They have made 32 badges made for the families of fallen first responders (including police, fire, EMS and K-9s) in 26 states, including five of them this past weekend. Eric formerly worked for a sheriffs department in southwest Iowa, and was in the Eldridge Police Explorers group in the late 80s as a high school student. They made their first custom-fabricated metal badge in late 2021, when their now 24-year-old son whos a Scott County Sheriffs Deputy graduated from police academy. Eric Long during the Metal4Valor display Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024 in Eldridge, Iowa (photo by Jonathan Turner). Kathy her and her team make the incredible pieces that get sent all around, Eric said Wednesday morning at a press conference at the Eldridge Volunteer Fire Department. Shes the driving force behind it as well. They customize the badges with the individual names and badge numbers. We saw how many police officers and firefighters passed away in the line of duty each year, Eric said. Its really driven home the reality of the sheer number of first responders losing their lives in the line of duty. An epidemic This is almost an epidemic on a daily basis, he said. We have five pieces that are going to be delivered today, two of them shipped out tonight to Tennessee and Virginia. It was almost overwhelming to realize how often this was happening. You dont hear about it every day and when you are seeing that happen, its very humbling, Kathy Long said. You know this is happening every single day. People arent aware and this is one way to get more people to be aware, Kathy said. The family has a piece that honors their loved one. Kathy and Eric Long have a 24-year-old son (also named Eric) who is a Scott County Sheriffs Deputy (photo by Jonathan Turner). They wanted to recognize all first responders (not just law enforcement), since theyre all giving the ultimate sacrifice, she said. We just did one for a volunteer firefighter who lost his life. Thats huge to me thats someone whos volunteering their time. Premier usually takes 7-10 days to make each badge, following notification of a death. Kathy said they try to respond on a timely basis, to get them out quickly, and many are displayed by families at the heros funeral. Each one is different, is handmade. It is neat to see all the different ones, how they come out, how we make them, to exactly what they wear, she said. Thats our challenge. We enjoy doing it. Its unfortunate the reason why were doing em. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and President Joe Biden reached out to the family of fallen Loudoun County firefighter Trevor Brown, offering their heartfelt sympathies. The 45-year-old volunteer firefighter died last Friday (Feb. 16, 2024) while investigating a 500-gallon underground propane tank that was found to be leaking before it exploded. Ten other firefighters and two residents of the Sterling home were hurt. Retired Davenport police chief and Metal4Valor board member Paul Sikorski speaks at Wednesdays press conference (photo by Jonathan Turner). The sole mission of Metal4Valor is to honor first responders who make the ultimate sacrifice protecting their communities across this nation, Paul Sikorski, retired Davenport police chief and board member of Metal4Valor, said Wednesday. Supporting the fallen, as well as supporting, loving and embracing grieving family members is done so symbolically using these badges, all made here in Eldridge. We will never take for granted the sacrifices our brave men and women first responders make for us, Sikorski said. Several members of area law enforcement attended Wednesdays event, including from Scott County Sheriffs Department, and police departments from Eldridge, Bettendorf, Buffalo, and Walcott. Metal4Valor board members include retired first responders, active first responders, family members, and local business and community members. Anniversary of K.C. badge Eric Long recalled that they delivered two badges to the Kansas City Police Department a year ago, on Feb. 21, 2023, for a police officer and his K-9 killed in a traffic accident. On Feb. 15, 2023, a Kansas City officer and his K-9 partner died in a crash that also killed a pedestrian. Last year, they met the family of the fallen Kansas City officer, spending about an hour with them. The Longs worked with retired Bettendorf Police Officer Bruce Schwartz to form Metal4Valor as a nonprofit, with its own board. Premier made its first memorial badge for the Knox County Sheriffs Deputy Nicholas Weist, in April 2022. Deputy Nick Weist, 34, was killed in the line of duty April 29, 2022 (Knox County Sheriffs Office). The 34-year-old Knox County deputy was killed in the line of duty April 29, 2022, on U.S. 150 in Henry County, on his way home from a shift. Kathy Long said the badge they did for him was displayed by his family at the funeral. The number of law enforcement professionals nationwide who died in the line of duty in 2023 decreased 39% compared to the previous year, according to preliminary data provided by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), the leading authority on officer fatalities. Representatives of several area law enforcement agencies attended the Wednesday morning event in Eldridge (photo by Michael Frachalla). As reported in their official 2023 End-of-Year Preliminary Law Enforcement Officers Fatalities Report, the NLEOMF data shows that 136 federal, state, county, municipal, military, tribal, and campus officers died in the line of duty in 2023, representing a 39% drop compared to the 224 officers who died in the line of duty in 2022. Metal4Valor has made badges for an officer in Algona, Iowa (killed Sept. 13, 2023), and a fallen K-9 in Des Moines. Eric said their work has become a passion and a mission. Its not just us its every one of our board members, he said. Everyone is taking turns delivering. One note of appreciation came this past December, from a sibling of Preble County (Ohio) Sheriffs Deputy Josh Hamilton, 34, who was killed in a car crash. 10-year-old Mikaelah Hamilton, with a Metal 4 Valor badge made in honor of her father, the late sheriffs deputy Joshua Hamilton. I am just messaging to let you know how much we appreciate the absolutely beautiful star badge that you sent to us after the passing of my brother deputy Josh Hamilton! This will be a keepsake for his daughter Mikaelah for the rest of her life! the Metal4Valor website says. My parents & I greatly appreciate the love and support, no words can express what the star badge means to us! Metal4Valor is seeking donations to support the cause, and theyre hosting a trivia night March 9th at Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds Keppy Hall in Davenport. To donate, visit their website HERE. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. TOPEKA (KSNT) A newly established political party in Kansas will stay in place despite the reveal of an election fraud case involving the organization. On Monday, Feb. 19, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced that a Florida man was arrested in connection to an election fraud case in Kansas. The man was arrested for allegedly forging signatures on petitions to help make No Labels an officially recognized political party in the state of Kansas. Whitney Tempel with the Kansas Secretary of States (SOS) office told 27 News that a review was conducted on No Labels petition in December of 2023. This was completed by the SOSs office alongside county election officials. Following this process, a referral was sent to Kobachs office for investigation into fraudulent petition signatures. Flags to fly at half-staff to honor victims of Kansas City Chiefs Parade shooting The revelation regarding the election fraud case put No Labels Kansas in a precarious position in the Sunflower State. However, Tempel confirms the party will remain in place despite the recent arrest. The No Labels Kansas party submitted over 30,000 signatures. County election officials verified more valid signatures than what were required in order to verify the petition. Notwithstanding the attorney General investigation and announcement of fraudulent activity, the no labels Kansas party had sufficient signatures to be legally recognized political party No Labels Kansas remains a legally recognized as a party. Whitney Tempel, SOS No Labels Kansas became an official political party in January, 2024 following an announcement from the SOSs office. While unable to participate in the August primary election later this year, No Labels Kansas can attain the status of a major political party, later becoming entitled to nominate its general election candidates, if its governor candidate receives more than 5% of the statewide vote. Bill to create Kansas Gun Rights Preservation Act introduced in state Legislature At present, No Labels Kansas is on par, in terms of size, with Kansas Libertarian Party. The group is part of a larger national movement that opposes the current presidential candidates of President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump and wants to offer voters a third party choice. You can learn more about No Labels by visiting its website. For more Capitol Bureau 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. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. Oleksandr (L), 16, who was kept at a state boarding school in Russian-occupied Lugansk, hugs his aunt Viktoria, 47, after he crossed the border from Belarus to Ukraine (Roman PILIPEY) Eleven Ukrainian children crossed the border from Belarus to Ukraine Tuesday evening, in the latest return of children taken to Russia and occupied territories during the nearly two-year Ukraine war. Emerging from the darkness at a humanitarian crossing on the Belarus border, the children hugged family members who had been waiting for more than six hours. Oleksandr, 16, is the oldest among those returned by Moscow through a Qatar-mediated scheme. "My new life is starting," he said, smiling shyly and describing the "joy and slight nerves". The children were received by the Qatari embassy in Moscow on Monday before travelling to Belarus and walking across the one-kilometre border zone -- while some relatives were able to meet the children directly in Moscow. Two critically ill children were brought over in an ambulance and rushed to hospital. Ukraine estimates 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 group of children is the fourth and largest to have been returned with Qatar's help and included some as young as two, Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told AFP at the border. "Believe me, we will bring them all back," Lubinets assured the waiting relatives. - Reuniting families - Oleksandr's aunt Viktoria, 47, had not seen him since the war broke out. She unsuccessfully tried to collect her nephew three times and only managed to speak to him on the phone recently. Officials in Russian-occupied Lugansk sent him to a state boarding school, similar to a children's home, where they took away his documents and "psychologically pressured him to stop him leaving", she said. "Our situation seemed deadlocked." Oleksandr was sent to the school after his mother and older brother, 21, were killed by shelling of their car as they tried to flee the Lugansk region in July 2022. Sometimes Oleksandr dreams of his mother screaming as she died, his aunt added. Now she plans to take her nephew to live with her in Zhytomyr near Kyiv. "We will celebrate and show him the city." Computer developer Sergiy, 36, from Kyiv, also pulled his niece and nephew into a tight embrace as he collected them at the border. After their parents died, Lev, 13, and Zhazmin, 10, lived with a distant relative in their home city of Russian-occupied Mariupol. The relative moved them to the suburbs of Moscow as Mariupol became a fierce battlefield in the spring of 2022, before later returning to the Ukrainian city. The relative "had no desire to take care of the children" so she tried to put them in a state children's home, Sergiy said. "I thought it was almost impossible to get the kids back." Smiling, Sergiy said he was ready to become a father of two, having no children himself. "I will try to show them what it is like when they are needed and when someone can properly care of and support them." Another mother, who wished to remain anonymous, collected her 13-year-old son after she was held prisoner in Mariupol. - Qatari help - "With an intermediary... we have new approaches, and you can see the result," Lubinets said. Lubinets added that he had just returned from meeting Qatar's prime minister to discuss the return of both children and civilians. "I can't disclose the details publicly yet, but I will say that I saw the maximum interest for Qatar to take part in this." For his part, Qatari ambassador Hadi Nasser Mansour Al-Hajri told AFP that the country was ready to help bring out more people. "If there is a request from both sides, we will do it, we are eager to do it." "We are open for any possibilities: bringing prisoners of war or political prisoners... and the kids, we are open for all these things." Since July 2023, Qatar has helped bring out almost 30 children, the ambassador said. "We are almost the only country involved in the issue so we will continue." am/spb/yad/giv Twinning! X-formerly-Twitter owner Elon Musk has once again been accused of operating a fake online persona. As The Daily Dot reports, the drama started over the weekend when several X users suggested that Musk has secretly been operating an account belonging to one "Adrian Dittmann" a seeming Musk fan who tweets and speaks almost exactly like the SpaceX and Tesla CEO. Among the accusers was Twitter power user @LiamNissan, whose long-standing account was deleted shortly after the allegations started gaining some steam. This led many netizens to believe that Musk had a hand in @LiamNissan's removal from the platform, and the hashtag #FreeLiamNissan quickly took off, as did the rumor that Musk is Wizard of Oz-ing the alleged Dittmann's account. As it turns out, Musk wasn't the one who nuked @LiamNissan's account; @LiamNissan later clarified in a Bluesky post that he deleted his own X profile following an onslaught "creepy ass threats." Even so, the Dittmann theory isn't completely out of the realm of possibility especially considering that Musk was caught last spring appearing to operate what strongly looked like two separate burner accounts, one of which he allegedly used to shower himself in praise from the perspective of a young child. So there's that! Mother Maye Dittmann, who has a sizeable following, isn't a new figure. The account went somewhat viral last year when he and Musk encountered each other in a cursed X Spaces chat, shocking the crowd with their uncannily similar voices. And as far as Musk fans go, Dittmann's as committed as they come. His pinned tweet reads that "it took Boston Dynamics 30 years to achieve what Tesla achieved in one," and on one occasion, he responded to a picture of Musk with his young son, saying: "You're an amazing father, Elon. Your kids are very lucky to have you." Dittmann is also affiliated with the financial advising group "Rebellionaire," which claims to offer support to "All-In $TSLA investors." Musk and Dittmann's voices are so similar that in an X Spaces event hosted on February 19, Musk's mother, Maye Musk, could hardly tell them apart. "Whoaaaa," Maye remarked, according to a clip of the interaction shared by Dittmann. "That's a good imitation. I don't know how you do that." To be clear, unlike previous Musk burner account revelations, there doesn't seem a ton of hard evidence supporting the idea that Musk and Dittmann are the same person. And of course, at face value, the idea that the world's richest man would go so far as to jump into live chats with himself under the guise that he was appearing as two separate people seems exceedingly unlikely. Then again, this is Elon Musk expecting the unexpected is sometimes a safe bet. More on Elon Musk: Elon Musk Selling Blue Checkmarks to Literal Terrorists Elon Musk is not a fan of unions. Nor are Amazon, Starbucks, or, apparently, Trader Joes. Those four companies opened the new year by mounting a legal campaign to destroy the federal agency charged with protecting workers from unfair anti-unionization efforts and maintaining labor peace. If they succeed, they could radically tip the scales in favor of corporations and away from the workers who hope to organize their workplaces. SpaceX, the rocket company founded by Musk, asked a federal judge last month to block an imminent enforcement action against it by the National Labor Relations Board, a federal agency that monitors unfair labor practices. The company argued that the New Dealera agencys structure violates the Constitution and asked the courts to defang and dismantle it. The NLRBs current way of functioning is miles away from the traditional understanding of the separation of powers, which views [t]he accumulation of all powers legislative, executive and judiciary in the same hands as the very definition of tyranny, the company said in its complaint, quoting from the Federalist Papers. While SpaceX noted that the Supreme Court has previously upheld aspects of the agencys structure, the court has subsequently clarified that the Constitutions due process guarantee precludes an individual from serving as prosecutor and adjudicator in the same case, it claimed. The NLRB consists of a general counsel and five board members, all of whom are appointed by the president and serve four-year terms. The general counsel serves as a prosecutor of sorts, investigating complaints of labor law violations and pursuing charges for them before the agencys administrative law judges, or ALJs. In addition to other responsibilities, the five-member board reviews the ALJs rulings in labor disputes. SpaceX argued that the NLRBs structure is unconstitutional in two ways. First, it claimed that the agencys key membersthe five board members and the ALJsare unconstitutionally insulated from removal. The company says that certain provisions in federal law that only allow those civil servants to be fired for cause infringe upon the executive branchs constitutional powers. (SpaceX also argued that the agencys adjudication process violated the Seventh Amendment right to a jury trial in civil lawsuits, but well come back to that later.) The Supreme Court has been receptive to similar arguments against other federal agencies. In the 2018 case Lucia v. Securities and Exchange Commission, the justices held that the ALJs who work for the SEC are considered inferior officers under Article 2. That meant that the ALJs at that agency wield significant enough power that they must be hired by the president or a Senate-confirmed official to whom he delegates that authority. As for the five board members, the justices have also taken aim at some federal regulatory agencies whose leaders can only be fired by the president for cause. In the 2020 case Selia Law v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the justices struck down provisions that protected the CFPB director from being fired only for inefficiency, neglect, and malfeasance. At the same time, they ruled that this perceived defect did not require them to abolish the entire agency, as some parties had hoped. We therefore hold that the structure of the CFPB violates the separation of powers, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the court. We go on to hold that the CFPB Directors removal protection is severable from the other statutory provisions bearing on the CFPBs authority. The agency may therefore continue to operate, but its director, in light of our decision, must be removable by the President at will. SpaceX also argued that the NLRB itself was unconstitutional because the exercise of prosecutorial, legislative, and adjudicatory authority by the agency violates the separation of powers and due process. Its complaint focused on the process by which NLRB members can petition a federal district court for a preliminary injunction against alleged labor law violators. SpaceX argued that this internal process was insufficiently adversarial and thus violated the companys due process rights. Last week, Amazon raised similar arguments in a series of NLRB cases that it currently faces. The internet retail giant, which has its own troubled history of unfair labor practices, offered a smorgasbord of administrative law issues to fight back against the agency. It claimed the NLRB general counsels interpretation of the National Labor Relations Act implicate[s] the Major Questions Doctrinewhich has become a newfangled tool developed by the Supreme Courts conservative majority to strike down disfavored regulatory actions, as well as references to the nondelegation doctrine that some conservative justices favor. Amazon also reiterated claims made by SpaceX in its own litigation that the NLRB itself was unconstitutional. The structure of the NLRB violates the United States Constitutions separation of powers and Amazons due process rights under the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution because the NLRBs Board Members concurrently exercise legislative, executive, and judicial powers in the same administrative proceeding, the company alleged. Earlier this month, Starbucks also made similar claims in its own proceedings involving the NLRB. The massive coffee chain has spent the last few years battling complaints from workers and labor groups over a persistent pattern of anti-union practices, including shutting down branches where workers try to organize. The NLRB filed a complaint in December to reopen 23 of its stores that the agency said had been closed in violation of labor laws. A few months earlier, an NLRB administrative law judge ruled that former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz had also violated labor law by telling a worker who had raised union-related issues to him that if youre not happy at Starbucks, you can go work for another company, which was interpreted as a threat of dismissal. According to The New York Times, Schultz returned to serve a third stint as the companys CEO because he wanted to stop the unionization drive and preserve the companys image as a model employer. Musk has a long history of antipathy toward unions, and his companies have an established pattern of abusive labor practices. I disagree with the idea of unions, he said at an event in November. I just dont like anything which creates a lords and peasants sort of thing. This is the same nonsensical phrase that he used to describe Twitters verification practices before he bought the company, which he then dismantled in pursuit of monetization. Musk also claimed during the event that unions naturally try to create negativity in a company. While that assertion is questionable, unionization could imperil Musks meticulous efforts at image management and brand promotion, which have helped turn Tesla and SpaceX into multibillion-dollar companies. It would also make it harder for Musk to impose his own vision of work-life balance upon his companies workforces: He once claimed to work 16 hours a day, and Tesla workers have often faced similarly grueling schedules, even on weekends. His factories in California, Nevada, and Texas have also faced frequent complaints about unsafe labor practices. SpaceXs decision to file the lawsuit in Texas, rather than California, appeared to be a transparent bid to secure a conservative, business-friendly slate of judges to hear the case. That effort faced a major setback last week when the presiding judge ordered it transferred to federal courts in California. The events touching this district are incidental to the principal events occurring elsewhere and constitute a relatively small portion of the total body of events, Judge Rolando Olvera concluded. This action concerns a California administrative proceeding regarding the actions of a California company and its California employees in California. This action should be transferred. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals stayed that transfer pending further review on Tuesday, however, and may yet give Musk the more favorable forum that he is seeking. Whether the companies efforts to upend federal labor law succeed will depend on the willingness of the Supreme Court to eventually embrace them. The courts conservative majority is not known for its friendliness to labor unions, to say the least. In recent years, the justices have ruled against fair-share fees for public-sector unions, made it harder for California farmworkers to organize, and gave companies new latitude to sue striking workers for damages. The court is also hearing a series of cases this term that could upend how the federal government issues and enforces its own regulations. One of them, Jarkesy v. SEC, is currently challenging the for-cause provisions that protect the SECs ALJs from at-will firing. The parties in that case have also raised the same Seventh Amendment question raised by the companies in the SEC enforcement context, meaning that the justices will likely shed new light on that legal question soon. Beyond the legal implications, the legal war against the NLRB is a stark signal of how far companies have moved against the laws and regulations that ended decades of violent labor strife and set the stage for Americas postwar prosperity. If the companies prevail, most working Americans will find it harder than their parents or grandparents ever did to collectively organize for better wages and conditions. (Bloomberg) -- Republican Presidential candidate Nikki Haley said she considers frozen embryos created through in-vitro fertilization babies, siding with the Alabama Supreme Court on an issue that resonates with conservative voters three days before South Carolinas primary. Most Read from Bloomberg Embryos, to me, are babies, Haley told NBC News in an interview broadcast Wednesday. In an appearance on the CNN program King Charles on Wednesday night, she tempered those remarks. Justices on the states top court last week recognized unimplanted human embryos as children, ruling that a state law allowing parents to recover punitive damages for their childrens deaths includes the parents of unborn children, regardless of ability to survive outside the womb. The decision is seen as making it more difficult for people to conceive via fertility treatments. When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me thats a life and so I do see where thats coming from when they talk about that, Haley said in the interview. On CNN, however, she told hosts Gayle King and Charles Barkley that I didnt say that I agreed with the Alabama ruling. The question that I was asked is, Do I believe an embryo is a baby? I do think that if you look in the definition, an embryo is considered an unborn baby, and so yes, I believe from my stance that that is. Our goal is to always do what the parents want with their embryo it is theres so any physician that is in control of those embryos they owe it to those people, to make sure they protect that embryo and that they do with that embryo what those parents want done with that embryo, Haley said. The former South Carolina governor who shared that her son, now 22, was conceived via artificial insemination has previously stated that shes unapologetically pro-life. During last years Republican primary debates, Haley said states should decide their own abortion policies and downplayed the idea of a federal ban. As governor, she signed a bill that banned abortion at 20 weeks with no exceptions for rape or incest. Haley trails the GOP frontrunner former President Donald Trump by 25 percentage points in her home state, according to the RealClearPolitics polling average. The Palmetto State, where religious conservatives make up a significant portion of the electorate, holds its primary Saturday. While shes vowed to stay in the race at least through Super Tuesday on March 5, Haleys path to the nomination would be tough to chart if Trump were to win by a large margin in South Carolina, building on his decisive wins last month in Iowa and New Hampshire. Read more: Alabama Embryo Ruling Gives Abortion Foes Tool to Expand Fight Asked about the impact the Alabama decision could have on those seeking IVF treatment, Haley said on NBC, Its incredibly personal, its incredibly sensitive, and I think thats the conversation the doctor needs to have with the patient. Lets never underestimate the importance of the relationship between a doctor and patient when theyre doing any of that. --With assistance from Celine Castronuovo. (Updates with Haley comments to CNN, starting in second paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Students at F.I.R.S.T. School in Richland County are getting a jumpstart into the cosmetology field through a hands-on cosmetology initiative as part of the Ready for Hire program. Students involved in the program learn a wide scope of skills needed in the cosmetology industry. So far this year, they have learned hair styling, including updos, homecoming/prom hairstyles and different forms of braiding, manicuring and pedicuring, and nail art. Students have also practiced salon sanitation/disinfection protocols. Milliron Auto Parts marks 70th anniversary "In our cosmetology program, we strive to build a community within the classroom that allows our students to feel comfortable and confident practicing their skills that we hope will open opportunities for them in the future, both personally and professionally, said Chelsi Lohr, after school program teacher. The program is succeeding in reaching Lohrs goal. In fact, one cosmetology student said, Doing nails helps me and other students feel confident. Perhaps even more important than that, the skills students are learning are overflowing into other aspects of their lives. Practicing nail art has also been a helpful coping skill," said one student. Nail art by a student in F.I.R.S.T. School's cosmetology program. When students are not practicing in the lab, they are given opportunities to learn about career readiness including employability skills, conflict management and interview etiquette. As many of the students enrolled in the program wish to have a career in cosmetology, the program allows them to learn the vocabulary and technical skills to give them a head start once they enter the training program. F.I.R.S.T. School is a Private Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) Program funded through the Ohio Department of Education Private Residential Treatment Facility Pilot Program to operate the academic program. Mid-Ohio ESC partners with the residential treatment program administration and staff to deliver an educational program that meets the requirements of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: F.I.R.S.T. School students in Mansfield get a jumpstart in cosmetology NICOSIA (Reuters) - A top court in the European Union on Wednesday rejected an attempt to drop the protected status of Halloumi, staving off a challenge on the prized cheese that is one of Cyprus's top exports. Halloumi has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning that only approved producers from Cyprus can market the cheese under that name. But official product specifications has triggered a backlash from the Cypriot dairy industry. Authorities say the cheese should be manufactured with a blend of cow, ewe and goat milk, gradually displacing cow's milk which had in recent years been the dominant ingredient. In a judgement posted on its website, the General Court of the EU dismissed a petition to strip Halloumi of its PDO, petitioned by Cyprus cattle breeders and their affiliated dairy company. The petition had argued that Cyprus submitted erroneous specifications on Halloumi ingredients in applying for a PDO in 2014. Known for its versatility, the soft rubbery cheese can be eaten raw, grilled, boiled or fried without losing its shape. It is the island's largest export after pharmaceuticals. Halloumi won a PDO from the EU in 2021. Under product specifications, Cyprus intends to gradually increase the amount of ewe and goat's milk in the mix to equal that of cow's milk. This move has sparked fierce debate from industry stakeholders who say ewe and goat's milk is highly seasonal, and could therefore have an impact on production capacity. "We don't want our exports to fall, its one of our top exports but this (specifications) will cause problems in production," said Nicos Papakypriakou, general manager of the Cyprus Cattlebreeders Association. At present 10% ewe and goat milk goes into the mix. When authorities decreed a rise to 19% last October, cheesemakers threatened to shut their dairies as there was not enough milk available to sustain unhindered production of all dairy products. (Reporting by Michele Kambas, Editing by Timothy Heritage) In the two years since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, European demand for natural gas has dropped by 20 percent. European gas demand is now at its lowest point in a decade, according to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, as Germany, Italy, and other countries ramp up renewable power and cut energy use to cope with a shrinking supply of Russian gas. Last year, pipeline imports from Russia dropped in half, and Europe, for the first time, drew more power from wind than from natural gas. IEEFA To help disentangle itself from Russia, Europe has also begun building new terminals to import liquefied natural gas from overseas, though falling demand may render much of this new infrastructure unnecessary, analysts say. Eight import terminals have come online since Russia invaded Ukraine, and another 13 are expected to enter into service by 2030, but demand for liquefied natural gas is set to peak next year. In the last two years, Europe has transformed its energy system, said Ana Maria Jaller-Makarewicz, an analyst at IEEFA. This is the time to examine which policies worked and continue with them while putting in place new strategies that could give Europe the edge to manage risks in the future. ALSO ON YALE E360 Natural Hydrogen: A Potential Clean Energy Source Beneath Our Feet Americans in the nations capital shared the most important issues impacting their 2024 election vote, with most telling Fox News that the economy was among their top priorities. "I think people are really concerned about the economy," Sibusiso, a New Yorker, told Fox News. "Just make sure that the economy is in great shape. I think that that's what everybody needs right now." WATCH MORE FOX NEWS DIGITAL ORIGINALS HERE Over the summer, President Biden started touting Bidenomics a term created to promote his administration's work to rebuild the economy following the pandemic. But despite recent job growth numbers and cooling inflation after hitting a 40-year high in June 2022, 55% of registered voters preferred former President Trump to handle the economy compared to 33% favoring Biden, according to an NBC News poll of 1,000 registered voters published on Feb. 4. TIME THAT MAYBE HE STEP DOWN: AMERICANS GRADE BIDEN AFTER CHARLAMAGNE BRANDS HIM AN UNINSPIRING CANDIDATE Inflation is "too high, and everybody's broke," Reginald, of Los Angeles, said. "It's like we're going back to the 20s and 30s again. This is not making America great again, that's for sure." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP High costs have remained a concern for some Americans, particularly as prices rose in January, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Prices climbed 3.1% from the same time last year, and inflation remained above the Federal Reserve's 2% target. Others told Fox News women's rights, border security and climate change were among their top voting issues. "Our border is an issue," Lori, a Texas native, told Fox News. "I feel like our border is not secure, and we need to secure that." NEW YORK TWIN BROTHERS GO VIRAL ON TIKTOK FOR HILARIOUS VIDEOS ON INFLATION: YOU GOT TO WORK HARD Sarah, from Boston, said abortion access was a top factor in her voting decisions. "The most important issues are just to keep everybody's rights intact," Sue, also from Boston, said. "I think women's rights, reproductive rights, are hugely important." Voters in the nation's capital shared the top issues that could impact their 2024 election decisions. Several voters told Fox News they prioritized a functioning government when considering their 2024 election decisions. I want "sanity," Katherine, from Virginia, said. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Allie, of Washington, D.C., shared a similar sentiment. "I'm just looking for stability," she said. "We need to keep things operating and functioning." Original article source: 'Everybody's broke': Americans reveal their top issues ahead of the 2024 election Ewen MacIntosh, who has died aged 50, stole several of the classic scenes in the BBC television comedy The Office, as the roly-poly, socially inept accountant Keith. Speaking in an undeviating monotone, when not emitting disturbing snuffles or breathing heavily, Keith reminded millions of viewers of exactly the sort of awkward co-worker they were doomed to spend their waking lives alongside. Brilliantly underplayed by MacIntosh, the character like that of the appalling manager David Brent, played by the shows co-creator Ricky Gervais seemed at times almost too painfully real to be funny. In one sequence that entered the sitcom pantheon, he even managed to make viewers feel some sympathy for Brent, who is tasked with undertaking Big Keiths appraisal. MacIntosh gave a monosyllabic masterclass as a man who cannot be bothered to pretend that he has any interest in his job and answers Dont know to all questions. Under Strengths youve just put Accounts. Thats your job Is there anything else you could have put there? asks the increasingly exasperated Brent, to be met by a shrug. Under Weaknesses youve put: Eczema. In the first episode of The Office, broadcast in July 2001, MacIntosh was just one of several background workers in the Slough branch of the paper manufacturer Wernham Hogg; his character had no name in the credits (and his own name was misspelled as Ewan). In an episode of Murder in Suburbia with Lisa Faulkner, left, and Caroline Catz - Television Stills At 20 stone, the actor already stood out, however, and he was determined to make the most of his limited opportunities to impress Gervais. One of the first things I did was a scene where Ricky was introducing the new guy to everyone and I basically just stared him down, he recalled in The Independent in 2021. Ricky couldnt stop laughing and I think at that point he thought: This guys a great foil. In an ad lib during the filming of one early scene Gervais addressed him as Keith: the name stuck and as the series (which ran for 14 episodes across three years) progressed, his role was expanded. Despite acting alongside such outstanding comic performers as Gervais, Mackenzie Crook (as the gullible military enthusiast Gareth Keenan) and Ralph Ineson (as the boorish rep Finchy), MacIntosh held his own. He brought a brilliant banality to his conversations with his long-suffering co-worker Tim, played by Martin Freeman. (Keith: I watched that Peak Practice Bloody repeat. Tim: Thats annoying, innit? Keith: Not for me, I hadnt seen it.) Keith also gives Tim the benefit of his romantic advice Men get turned on by what they see, but women get turned on by what they hear. I always make sure the woman hears the right thing I very tenderly explain to them that I will guarantee them at least one orgasm before softly biting into one of his ever-present Scotch eggs, in a scene that took several takes as Freeman was reduced to helpless laughter. MacIntoshs own favourite moment came when Keith, asked for ideas for the office Christmas party, replies in front of his colleagues: Invite girls. Not girls that work here. Pretty girls. Ewen Douglas MacIntosh was born in Merionethshire, Wales, on Christmas Day 1973, the son of Ewen MacIntosh and his wife Sara. After Repton School he studied linguistics at the University of Edinburgh, where he was a founder of its comedy society, the Edinburgh Revue. He worked in market research for a time while writing and performing with a comedy troupe called Navel Gazing. In 2001 he and his Navel Gazing co-star Jamie Deeks were cast in background parts in a new show called The Office. All we were told before the first days filming was, it was a mock documentary, he recalled. The only benchmark I had was This Is Spinal Tap, which is pretty much my favourite comedy film. I thought, well, Christopher Guest, who plays Nigel Tufnel, just deadpans and chews gum, so maybe if I just deadpan and chew gum Ill get away with it. After The Office, MacIntosh concentrated on comedy scriptwriting, but popped up as a performer in TV and radio comedies such as Little Britain, Miranda, Lead Balloon and Cabin Pressure. In 2004 his performance as a cuckolded husband in Marcus Markous play Age-Sex-Location (Riverside Studios) was described by The Sunday Telegraph as brilliant just brilliant. Nevertheless, he endured lean times and declared bankruptcy in 2016. His other screen work included roles in EastEnders, Casualty (as a Pavarotti impersonator) and several nondescript British films. In 2022 he was reunited with Gervais for an episode of After Life, in which he played a man banned from an all-you-can-eat buffet for over-indulgence. The Office remains enduringly popular, spawning an American remake in which the Keith equivalent, played by Brian Baumgartner, was called Kevin. MacIntosh also toured Britain with a pub quiz inspired by The Office, hearing first-hand how much the show meant to its fans. These characters almost become peoples mates and just having it on provides comfort. Much more animated and genial than Keith, Ewen MacIntosh was well-liked by his colleagues. He is survived by his parents and his brother Colin. Ewen MacIntosh, born December 25 1973, died February 19 2024 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 former Daily Beast editor and CNN anchor John Avlon announced his candidacy for US Congress in New York as a Democrat, seeking to flip a seat on Long Island, where Republicans saw surprising gains in the 2022 midterm elections. Related: Biden comparing Trump to Herbert Hoover a cheap shot, descendant says In a video announcement, Avlon said he was running to help Democrats win back the House from Donald Trumps Maga minions. Our democracy is in danger, he said. This election is not a drill. Its up to all of us to step up and get off the sidelines. We need to build the broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump, defend our democracy and win back the House from his Maga minions who dont even seem interested in solving problems. Avlon included the incumbent congressman in the first district, the Republican Nick LaLota, among those minions, who he said were doing whatever Trump wants, including blocking a bipartisan border security deal a reference to a successful move by Senate Republicans earlier this month, while their House counterparts refuse to pass a foreign aid bill that does not also include a border element. LaLota is one of a number of New York Republicans who won in 2022 in districts where Joe Biden beat Trump in 2020. Those districts are now targets for Democrats seeking to take back the closely divided House. One was flipped last week, when the third district, previously represented by George Santos an indicted fabulist and only the sixth member ever expelled from the House was won by a Democrat. LaLotas spokesperson, Will Kiley, previewed Republican attack lines, calling Avlon a Manhattan elitist without any attachments to Long Island other than his summer home in the Hamptons, who knew nothing about Suffolk county other than Sag Harbor croquet matches and summer cocktail parties in Bridgehampton. Married to the commentator and PBS host Margaret Hoover, a great-granddaughter of the Republican president Herbert Hoover, Avlon lives in Sag Harbor, a whaling port turned desirable seaside retreat. Kiley added: It may take burning millions of his friends money for Avlon to learn NY-1 has a history of rejecting out-of-state and Manhattan elitists, from both sides of the aisle, who parachute into the district attempting to buy a seat in Congress. Savannah Viar, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, called Avlon a smug liberal hack. LaLota, 45, is a graduate of the US Naval Academy. Kiley called him the commonsense conservative voice Long Island needs at this crucial time. In his announcement, Avlon said: This district needs real leadership, not more hyper-partisanship, and I am going to hit the ground running, talking to voters across Suffolk county about the issues we all care about. Related: Lincoln and the fight for peace: John Avlon on a president in the shadow of new war He aimed, he said, to rebuild the middle class, invest in infrastructure, protect womens reproductive freedoms and combat climate change. A former volunteer for Bill Clinton and chief speechwriter to Rudy Giuliani when he was the mayor of New York City, Avlon, 51, is also the author of books on George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and contemporary US politics, including, in 2010, Wingnuts: How the Lunatic Fringe is Hijacking America. On Wednesday, he said he wore as a badge of honour Trumps decision in 2016 to blacklist outlets including the Daily Beast, the website Avlon edited for five years from 2013 before focusing on CNN, which he left this month. On social media, Avlon thanked David Axelrod, Barack Obamas chief White House strategist, who called him thoughtful, incisive and passionate about our country and its future and said he would be a great and impactful member of Congress. This article was amended on 22 February 2024 to note that the mayor of New York City that John Avlon was chief speech writer to was Rudy Giuliani. LAS VEGAS (AP) A former FBI informant charged with making up a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company had contacts with officials affiliated with Russian intelligence, prosecutors said in a court paper Tuesday. Prosecutors revealed the alleged contact as they urged a judge to keep Alexander Smirnov behind bars while he awaits trial. Hes charged with falsely reporting to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. The claim has been central to the Republican impeachment inquiry in Congress. Smirnov was due in court Tuesday in Las Vegas. He has been in custody at a facility in rural Pahrump, about an hour drive west of Las Vegas, since his arrest last week at the airport while returning from overseas. Defense attorneys David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld said in a statement ahead of the hearing that they were asking for Smirnovs release while he awaits trial so he can effectively fight the power of the government. Prosecutors said that during an interview before his arrest last week, Smirnov admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden. They said Smirnovs contacts with Russian officials were recent and extensive, and said Smirnov had planned to meet with one official during an upcoming overseas trip. They said Smirnov has had numerous contacts with a person he described as the son of a former high-ranking government official and someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service. They said there is a serious risk that Smirnov could flee overseas to avoid facing trial. The White House didnt immediately comment on the claims in Tuesdays court filing. Prosecutors say Smirnov, who holds dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship, falsely reported to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. Smirnov in fact had only routine business dealings with the company starting in 2017 and made the bribery allegations after he expressed bias against Joe Biden while he was a presidential candidate, prosecutors said in court documents. He is charged with making a false statement and creating a false and fictitious record. The charges were filed in Los Angeles, where he lived for 16 years before relocating to Las Vegas two years ago. Smirnovs claims have been central to the Republican effort in Congress to investigate the president and his family, and helped spark what is now a House impeachment inquiry into Biden. Democrats called for an end to the probe after the indictment came down last week, while Republicans distanced the inquiry from Smirnovs claims and said they would continue to follow the facts. Hunter Biden is expected to give a deposition next week. The Burisma allegations became a flashpoint in Congress as Republicans pursuing investigations of President Biden and his family demanded the FBI release the unredacted form documenting the allegations. They acknowledged they couldnt confirm if the allegations were true. Former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov, center, leaves the courthouse on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Las Vegas. Prosecutors say that Smirnov, who is charged with making up a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company, had contacts with Russian intelligence-affiliated officials. (Bizuayehu Tesfaye/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP) WASHINGTON (AP) The explosive allegations at the center of an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden were false, federal prosecutors said, and came from an ex-FBI informant who said he was in touch with Russian intelligence. The informant, Alexander Smirnov, is actively peddling new lies that could impact U.S. elections, federal prosecutors said Wednesday, as they appealed to a judge to keep him behind bars ahead of trial on charges alleging he lied to the FBI about a phony multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving the Bidens and the Ukrainian energy company Burisma. Defense attorneys have not directly addressed prosecutors claims about Russian intelligence contacts but said they look forward to defending him at trial. Republicans in Congress have distanced themselves from Smirnov's claims and resisted calls to end the impeachment inquiry. Here's a look at what's known about Smirnov, the case against him and fears about potential effects on U.S. elections: WHO IS ALEXANDER SMIRNOV? Smirnov had been an informant since 2010, growing close to an FBI handler he spoke to nearly every day," prosecutors said in court documents. He met with Burisma executives starting in the spring of 2017 because the company was interested in buying an American company and making an initial public offering on a US stock exchange, according to court documents. Prosecutors say he has access to more than $6 million, with some money held in the name of his longtime partner. His recent reports to his handler included the guest lists from parties on mega yachts with Russian oligarchs, prosecutors said. He holds dual Israeli-US citizenship and lived in Israel for more than a decade, later moving to Los Angeles and finally Las Vegas in 2022, prosecutors said. WHAT IS HE ACCUSED OF? Smirnov has been charged with falsely reporting that Burisma executives paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each around 2015 after hiring Hunter Biden to sit on its board and protect us from an investigation by the then-Ukrainian prosecutor general. The charges were filed by the Justice Department special counsel who has separately filed gun and tax charges against Hunter Biden. No evidence has emerged that Joe Biden acted corruptly or accepted bribes in his current role or previous office as vice president. Smirnov, meanwhile, had only routine business dealings with Burisma, and they did not start until 2017 after the prosecutor general was gone and when Joe Biden was unable to influence U.S. policy since he was out of office, prosecutors said. Smirnov expressed bias against Joe Biden before he made the bribery allegations in June 2020, years after they supposedly occurred, prosecutors said. An FBI field office investigated the allegations and recommended the case be closed in August 2020, according to charging documents. Smirnovs defense attorneys have said he is presumed innocent, and they successfully pushed for his release from jail ahead of trial. U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel Albregts in Las Vegas said Tuesday he was concerned about Smirnovs access to money but that federal guidelines require him to fashion the least restrictive conditions ahead of trial. Prosecutors are appealing that decision. WHAT TIES ARE THERE TO RUSSIAN INTELLIGENCE? Prosecutors laid out in court documents extensive and extremely recent, contact Smirnov said he had with people aligned with Russian intelligence. Smirnov had told his FBI handler that he had been in touch with multiple other foreign intelligence services, including officials linked to Russian intelligence, according to court documents. As recently as December, court documents state he was relaying details about meetings with Russian officials, one of whom said the country's intelligence services had intercepted calls from prominent Americans that the Russian government may use as kompromat in the 2024 election, depending on who the candidates will be," using a word for compromising material. That echoed a previous bogus story from months before when he pushed his handler to investigate whether Hunter Biden had been recorded in a Ukrainian hotel, prosecutors said. The president's son has never traveled to Ukraine, according to court documents. What this shows is that the misinformation he is spreading is not confined to 2020. He is actively peddling new lies that could impact U.S. elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials in November, prosecutors wrote in court documents. National security experts have warned for years that foreign governments primarily Russia, China and Iran want to undermine the U.S. and see elections as a way to do it. In a threat assessment late last year, Microsoft warned Russia remains the most committed and capable threat to the 2024 election, with the Kremlin seeing next years vote as a must-win political warfare battle that could determine the outcome of its war against Ukraine. WHAT ARE REPUBLICANS SAYING? Smirnov's claims have been central to the Republican effort in Congress to investigate the president and his family and helped spark what is now a House impeachment inquiry into Biden. They became a flashpoint in Congress in July as Republicans demanded the FBI release the unredacted form, a so-called FD-1023, documenting the unverified allegations. Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky had subpoenaed the form as Republicans deepened their probe ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Republicans acknowledged they couldnt confirm if the allegations were true but said they were significant in their investigation of Hunter Biden. The allegations of Russian contact with the source of those allegations should be a death knell for the impeachment inquiry, said Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland. It appears like the whole thing is not only obviously false and fraudulent but a product of Russian disinformation and propaganda," he said. Republicans, on the other hand, have downplayed the importance of Smirnov's allegations. Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, pointed to Smirnov's long track record as an FBI source but said the impeachment inquiry goes beyond his allegations. The case against him doesn't change the fundamental facts at issue in the impeachment probe, he said. ___ Associated Press writers Rio Yamat in Las Vegas, Christina A. Cassidy in Atlanta and video journalist Dan Huff in Washington contributed to this report. LAS VEGAS A former FBI informant who allegedly fed the bureau false information about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden during the 2020 presidential campaign said that some of the information he spread came from officials associated with Russian intelligence, prosecutors said in a filing Tuesday. Alexander Smirnov, a 43-year-old who had been working as a confidential human source for the FBI since 2010, was ordered released under conditions after a detention hearing in a federal courtroom in Las Vegas on Tuesday. President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden attend the annual Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn. (Drew Angerer / Getty Images file) Prosecutors said in their filing Tuesday that Smirnov is actively peddling new lies that could impact U.S. elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials in November. U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts found that the government failed to make its case that Smirnov had to be detained until trial, and ordered him released under conditions that included GPS monitoring. Smirnov was arrested last week in Las Vegas after returning on an international flight and is facing two counts in connection with lies he allegedly told his FBI handler. His defense attorneys say he is an American citizen who also holds an Israeli passport, which Albregts ordered him to surrender. Smirnov, according to prosecutors with special counsel David Weiss' office, "provided false derogatory information to the FBI" about the Bidens, including the false allegation that officials with Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company that employed Hunter Biden, had paid the Bidens $5 million each and that it would take investigators 10 years to find the fake payments. Smirnov's claims were a key part of the Republican impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, with GOP leaders citing the unverified claims of the FBI confidential human source over and over again. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, the Judiciary Committee chairman helping to lead the GOP's impeachment push, said just weeks ago that the now-debunked claims from Smirnov were the "most corroborating evidence" that Republicans had in their ongoing impeachment inquiry. House Republicans have spent the days since the indictment downplaying the impact it had on their impeachment inquiry, with House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., saying their case "is not reliant" on the false claims. Comer had threatened to hold the FBI director in contempt over the summer, ultimately convincing the bureau to show members of the Oversight Committee an "FD-1023 form" that documented the false statements Smirnov allegedly made to his FBI handler in 2020, though the bureau emphasized at the time that the existence of the form did not mean the claims were vetted. One of the Republicans who viewed the form quickly proclaimed that Joe Biden was "100% guilty" of bribery. Smirnov's attorneys, David Z. Chesnoff and Richard A. Schonfeld, said in a statement they were "pleased to be representing Mr. Smirnov" and that their client "is presumed innocent and needs to be released from custody so he can effectively fight the power of the government." In a detention memo, prosecutors said that Smirnov has "extensive foreign ties, including, most troublingly and by his own account, contact with foreign intelligence services, including Russian intelligence agencies, and has had such contacts recently." In a court filing on Tuesday that grew out of Hunter Biden's criminal case in Delaware, Hunter Biden's attorneys wrote that it "should have been obvious to everyone" that Smirnov was lying, noting that the investigation based on the lies was closed in August 2020, when then-President Donald Trump's appointees headed the Justice Department. In a court filing Tuesday, Hunter Biden's attorneys questioned why Weiss's office spent months last year reinvestigating Smirnov's claims. "The Special Counsel charged Mr. Smirnov with lying and obstruction, but the more interesting part of this story is not that Mr. Smirnov lied," Hunter Bidens attorneys wrote. "It is more remarkable that beginning in July 2023, the Special Counsels team would follow Mr. Smirnov down his rabbit hole of lies as long as it did." Fitzpatrick reported from Las Vegas. Reilly reported from Washington. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com By Luc Cohen NEW YORK (Reuters) - A New York jury on Wednesday heard clashing descriptions of former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernandez as his U.S. drugs trial opened, with prosecutors saying traffickers fueled his rise to power and the defense countering that witnesses were framing him as revenge for his crackdown on cartels. Despite his tough public stance on drugs and cooperation with the United States while in office from 2014 to 2022, prosecutor David Robles said Hernandez, 55, was actually working "hand in hand" with traffickers who paid him millions of dollars in bribes to help send tons of cocaine to the U.S. "Behind the scenes he made sure that drug traffickers who remained loyal to him were protected," Robles said at the trial in Manhattan federal court. "He abused the power of his country - the military, the police, the justice system - to protect and support those traffickers." Hernandez has pleaded not guilty. In his opening statement, defense lawyer Renato Stabile urged jurors to discount testimony from convicted criminals who were seeking revenge for Hernandez's anti-drug policies, which included laws to seize traffickers' assets and extradite them to the U.S. "It's Mr. Hernandez who signed into law all those things that put them out of business," Stabile said. He said prosecutors' cooperating witnesses were also hoping to lower their own prison sentences. "Putting murderers and drug dealers on the witness stand who have cut deals and having them point the finger at Mr. Hernandez is not proof beyond a reasonable doubt," Stabile said. Honduras received more than $50 million in U.S. anti-narcotics assistance and tens of millions more in security and military aid during Hernandez's presidency, and he won support from former President Donald Trump for cracking down on drugs and migration. "President Hernandez is working with the United States very closely," Trump said in a Dec. 7, 2019 speech. "You know what's going on on our southern border. And we're winning after years and years of losing. We're stopping drugs at a level that has never happened." Three months after Hernandez left office, however, federal prosecutors in Manhattan charged him with three counts of drug trafficking conspiracy and criminal weapons possession. Attorney General Merrick Garland said he abused his power to operate the country as a "narco-state." Among the traffickers Hernandez protected was his brother, Robles said. Hernandez's brother, former congressman Tony Hernandez, was convicted on U.S. drugs charges in 2019 and sentenced to life in prison. Stabile said Tony Hernandez may have used his brother's name in conversations with others to burnish his credentials, but there was no evidence he gave Juan Orlando Hernandez any money. Earlier in February, two co-defendants who were initially set to be tried alongside Hernandez - his cousin Mauricio Hernandez and former Honduras national police chief Juan Carlos Bonilla - pleaded guilty to drug trafficking. Hernandez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years and up to life in prison if convicted on all counts. The trial began with jury selection on Tuesday and is expected to last between two and three weeks. (Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Marguerita Choy) Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez is on trial in New York on drug trafficking charges. Prosecutors allege Hernandez worked closely with violent drug traffickers to send loads of cocaine to the US. "This is a case about power. About corruption, about massive amounts of cocaine," a prosecutor said. Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez worked "hand in hand" with violent drug traffickers to send massive loads of cocaine into the United States, a federal prosecutor said on Wednesday in his opening statements at the high-profile New York trial of the fallen political leader. "This is a case about power, about corruption, about massive amounts of cocaine, and about the one man who stood at the center of it all," Assistant US Attorney David Robles told a Manhattan federal court jury. As the trial on drug and weapons charges kicked off, Hernandez sat in the courtroom wearing a black suit. Prosecutors have alleged that for nearly 20 years, including during his two terms as the president of Honduras, Hernandez built up a "corrupt and violent" empire to smuggle tons and tons of cocaine to America. Hernandez, once considered to be a key ally to the US on anti-narcotics efforts, received millions of dollars in bribes from drug trafficking organizations including from the notorious, now-imprisoned Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman Loera and essentially transformed Honduras into a narco-state, prosecutors have alleged. In court documents, prosecutors wrote that Hernandez, who was first elected in 2013 as president of Honduras, worked for years with "violent drug traffickers to harm the United States, telling his co-conspirators that he wanted to 'stuff the drugs up the noses of the gringos.'" Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez in 2020. AP Photo/Moises Castillo, File Robles told jurors in his opening statements on Wednesday that during the trial they will hear from some witnesses who "committed significant acts of violence." "These are the people the defendant chose to work with, and because of that, they are the only people in the world who can tell us how the defendant committed his crimes," Robles said. If convicted of the charges against him, 55-year-old Hernandez who has pleaded not guilty could spend the rest of his life inside a US prison. Hernandez's defense attorney, Renato Stabile, told the jury in his opening statements that Hernandez "does not sit down with drug traffickers." "He stands up to them, and he does it at great personal risk," Stabile added. The defense attorney said that some of the government witnesses the jury will hear from during the trial are killers and "psychopaths" who "are not worthy of trust or belief." "The number of people they've killed is so high that if you look around this courtroom, the number killed is probably higher than everyone sitting here right now," said Stabile, who added, "So when the government comes to you and asks you to find the defendant guilty, please remember who and what these witnesses are." "There's gonna be a lot of talk at this trial, but not a lot of concrete evidence," Stabile continued. An accountant from the Honduran city of San Pedro Sula was the first witness to take the stand on Wednesday. Speaking in Spanish through an interpreter, Jose Sanchez told jurors of 2013 meetings between Hernandez and convicted drug trafficker Geovanny Fuentes Ramirez at the office of the company where Sanchez worked. "Mr. Juan Orlando Hernandez said, 'We're going to shove the drugs up the nose of the gringos, and they're not even going to realize it,'" Sanchez recalled. Read the original article on Business Insider DOVER The attorney for Patrick Schaeffer is seeking to dismiss felony charges alleging the former Strafford County jail guard used his position of authority to solicit sexual favors from female inmates in exchange for small amenities such as extra peanut butter. The motion to dismiss on behalf of Schaeffer, 42, is based primarily on the amount of time that has passed since the case first came to light, and also the availability of certain discovery requests. The Strafford County House of Corrections in Dover. Schaeffer was indicted October 2023 on eight felony counts by a Strafford County grand jury. Three charges are Class A aggravated felonious sexual assault felonies, carrying a potential prison time of 7.5-15 years, and the other five are Class B felonies of felonious sexual assault, carrying a potential sentence of 3.5-7 years. If convicted, the sentences can be served consecutively or concurrently at the discretion of the court. If convicted of all charges, Schaeffer faces up to 80 years in prison. Jennifer Duckworth speaking out led to charges against Schaeffer Former Strafford County inmate Jennifer Duckworth was frustrated Schaeffer wasn't facing criminal charges after allegations were made in 2019-20. Duckworth spoke out to Foster's Daily Democrat for a story published in April 2023, detailing allegations about Schaeffer's conduct. 2023 story: Woman speaks out on abuse in Strafford County jail. Officer admits sex acts, remains free. Schaeffer had been arrested in 2020 but the case against him didn't proceed. He admitted to sexual misconduct in interviews with Strafford County sheriff's investigators, according to a report by Deputy Christopher Mangum. This included Schaeffer acknowledging he exposed himself to women inmates, gave them peanut butter for showing him their breasts and that he had oral sex with women inmates, naming them. Documents show investigators followed up on the interview with Schaeffer by talking with multiple women inmates or former inmates. The women were told Schaeffer had been arrested and were asked if they would like to discuss what happened in jail with him. All of them declined at that time. The current investigation is being conducted by the Carroll County attorney's office to avoid the appearance of conflict because of Schaeffer's former employment in Strafford County. Schaeffer was living in Texas at the time Duckworth spoke in 2023. Duckworth said she hoped her speaking out would lead to more women speaking with investigators. Four more women spoke to investigators, according to the indictment. Prosecutor objects to motion to dismiss on behalf of Schaeffer Carroll County Attorney Keith Blair filed an objection to the motion to dismiss the case against Schaeffer. Attorney Sven Wiberg, representing Schaeffer declined to comment on the case. In his motion, he asked the court to dismiss the case based on the lack of a speedy indictment and a speedy trial and due process. He also questioned the process of discovery, seeking "full discovery" of materials involved in the case. According to Wiberg's motion, Schaeffer was arrested on June 9, 2020, and set for arraignment July 16, 2020. At that time discovery was requested and never received. The bail order was vacated by the court on Sept. 16, 2020 and no further word was heard from the state until the 2023 indictments, according to Wiberg. Wiberg contends the case being brought three years after the initial allegations is prejudicial against his client. He also indicates the memories of those involved are likely tainted by the time lapsed. In his objection, Blair said some of that material may no longer exist or may be items Schaeffer's attorney is not entitled to receive. Responding to claims of a lack of a speedy indictment and trial, he said that argument serves as precedent for a case that is already pending in court, which this was not until Schaeffer's recent indictment and arrest. He said the clock started with the most recent indictment in 2023, and not three years ago. Blair said the July 2020 arraignment did not take place due to the COVID pandemic. Following that he said Deputy County Attorney Steven Briden filed a notice of no complaints in September, that notice giving the state the right to bring back the original charges or to present new ones to a grand jury at any time in the future. The state's motion notes it is not uncommon for a person who is the subject of an investigation to not be kept apprised of the steps taken by the state as part of their investigation. Blair said the court could rule on the motion and the objection or it could schedule a hearing on the merits. "If the court rules in our favor, the trial schedule will continue," said Blair. "If not, and the court rules in favor of the defendant, the case would be dismissed." Currently the court schedule shows jury selection scheduled to begin on Oct. 7. This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Ex-Strafford County jail guard seeks to dismiss sex assault case FILE - The Medronic logo is reflected in a lake at the company's offices in Fridley, Minn., on Aug. 29, 2019. An executive at a medical device company has been convicted in Minnesota of insider trading for a scheme involving negotiations for the acquisition of the firm that was valued at $1.6 billion, prosecutors said Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Doron Tavlin was a vice president for business development at the Minneapolis office of Mazor Robotics in 2018 when he learned there was the potential that the company could be purchased by Israeli-based Medtronic, Inc., according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office. (AP Photo/Jim Mone, File) ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) An executive at a medical device company has been convicted in Minnesota of insider trading for a scheme involving negotiations for the acquisition of the firm that was valued at $1.6 billion, federal prosecutors said Tuesday. Doron Tavlin was a vice president for business development at the Minneapolis office of Mazor Robotics in 2018 when he learned that the company could be purchased by Israeli-based Medtronic, Inc., according to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office. Tavlin illegally told a friend, Afshin Farahan, who bought more than $1 million worth of Mazor stock in the anticipation that the value would increase, prosecutors said. Mazor specializes in robotics for spinal procedures. The morning after the acquisition was announced, Farahan immediately sold all the stock he had purchased over the preceding weeks, which resulted in a combined profit of over $500,000 for himself and one other individual, the statement said. According to evidence presented at trial, the conspiracy included an agreement that Farahan would pay money to Tavlin in exchange for the nonpublic information about the acquisition. Last week, a federal jury convicted Tavlin, 68, of one count of conspiracy to commit insider trading and 10 counts of securities fraud and aiding and abetting securities fraud. Farahan, 57, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of conspiracy to engage in insider trading. Sentencing hearings for both defendants were not immediately scheduled. Another defendant was found not guilty of conspiracy to commit insider trading and securities fraud, prosecutors said. The top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee is gearing up for a reelection campaign some of his fellow Democrats had hoped he wouldnt pursue. A growing number of colleagues have expressed alarm about Rep. David Scotts (D-Ga.) health and what they describe as his declining capacity to negotiate the $1.5 trillion farm bill, which is currently stalled in Congress. So his announcement that hell seek a 12th term representing his heavily Democratic Atlanta-area district was a surprise to many members, who had assumed the 78-year-old would retire at the end of the year. Even in private meetings, Scott frequently reads from a script and at times has trouble carrying out substantive conversations in real time about much of the food and agriculture policy that he oversees, according to more than a dozen lawmakers, congressional staff, lobbyists and agriculture advocates who have spoken with Scott in recent months and were granted anonymity to speak candidly about their concerns. Some lawmakers whove served with Scott for years note hes long been well-liked by members in both parties, but they also describe him as much sharper a decade ago. I imagine just about every person is in favor of new leadership, and if there is anyone who says otherwise, then they're not telling the truth, said one Democratic lawmaker. Scotts bid sets up a major clash over who will lead Democrats on the Agriculture panel next Congress. Notably, he is also facing stiffer competition in his upcoming primary compared to past years. And, House Democratic leadership does not appear to be ruling out a possible shakeup on the committee next Congress. David Scott is Exhibit A for term limits, the Democratic lawmaker added. He was a respected, talented member who has become diminished. And it's painful for people to watch. Scott is just one in a long line of prominent lawmakers who have sought to hold onto their seats even as age and health problems prompted calls for their retirement. He made history as the first Black chairman of the committee in 2021, but has since faced several behind-the-scenes attempts to replace him. Last year, House Democrats also created a separate task force headed by Homeland Security ranking member Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) to conduct farm bill listening sessions across the country, a job that traditionally would have been left to Scott. The policy Scott is responsible for impacts hundreds of millions of U.S. farmers and families on a daily basis, including low-income Americans who rely on nutrition benefits, which hard-right Republicans are intent on slashing. Scotts committee office, personal office and campaign did not respond to requests for comment, and he declined to comment when a POLITICO reporter asked him about his reelection bid. After POLITICO reported in 2022 about lawmakers concerns with Scotts ability to lead the Agriculture Committee, he ordered his staff not to respond to any inquiries from POLITICO, according to two people familiar with the matter. House Democratic leadership aides note Scott was uncontested in his bid for ranking member this Congress. Rank-and-file members point out the only way to replace him is if Democratic leaders intervene something theyve declined to do in recent years. A spokesperson for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries did not explicitly rule out such a move when asked about Scotts position in the next Congress, however. Leader Jeffries looks forward to his continued work with Ranking Member David Scott on reauthorization of the Farm Bill, Jeffries spokesperson Christiana Stephenson said in a statement to POLITICO. He will leave the palace intrigue and coup attempts to the Extreme MAGA Republican side of the aisle. In some private meetings, Scott at times has appeared to briefly embrace ideas that go against his partys long-held policy positions, only to be corrected by staff, according to four of the people whove spoken with Scott in recent months. Scott also frequently leaves Agriculture Committee hearings early and never returns, which is unusual for a ranking member. Former Scott aides note that he is carefully guarded by staff, and that his personal chief of staff, Catherine Harney, exerts what they view as an unusual amount of control over the workings of the Agriculture Committee minority. Some Democratic members of the committee have become frustrated that theyre often only allowed to speak to Harney about key panel issues, rather than Scott himself, according to lawmakers and former aides. Some Democrats are privately considering a different way forward for their House Agriculture Committee leadership next Congress, should Scott win another term this fall. Well see who throws their hat in the ring, said a second Democratic lawmaker. Other House Democrats, including some who arent on the committee, say theyd be surprised if there was a shake-up on the committee next Congress. Ive found him to be a very reliable leader, Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio.) said of Scott. Georgias 13th district is a safe Democratic seat and previously covered Atlantas southwest quadrant, including suburbs and rural stretches. Scott, a pro-business, moderate Democrat, has successfully held off primary challengers in the past and won his last general reelection race by more than 60 points. But he is facing stiffer competition and dramatically different terrain this cycle, which will lessen the power of his incumbency. Scotts redrawn district is part of a new congressional map passed by Georgias GOP-majority state legislature and approved by a federal judge late last year. Its still safely Democratic and majority-Black. But the territory has changed significantly since his 2022 reelection, covering more of the eastern side of Atlantas exurban reaches, while lopping off a significant rural chunk of Scotts previous district. Scott has several grueling months ahead as he tries to canvass his new district and build support among a swath of new voters, while also wrangling the politically tenuous farm bill talks on Capitol Hill. Army veteran Marcus Flowers launched a primary challenge to Scott earlier this month, after raising more than $16 million in his unsuccessful 2022 bid to unseat GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Octavia Coleman, an epidemiologist and political newcomer, is also running in the primary. Flowers, who is also a moderate Democrat, is not going to challenge Scott on ideological lines, said Andra Gillespie, an associate professor of political science at Emory University. Its more likely, Gillespie added, that Flowers is going to challenge him on fitness and age. In an interview, Flowers indicated he wasnt planning to directly take on Scott's age, but said he represented a new generation of leaders. Flowers also said that he was more eager than some other Georgia Democrats to speak up about the threat of authoritarianism and the potential of Donald Trump returning to the presidency next year, arguing theres a perception that Democrats got kid gloves on when it comes to these MAGA Republicans. It is about preserving democracy for generations. It's about alerting people to the dangers that lie ahead of us, especially in the Black community, Flowers said, adding he would campaign day and night for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reelection if he wins the primary. Political watchers say its still possible other Democrats could jump into the race to challenge Scott ahead of the May 21 primary, including state representatives from his new district. Still, a third Democratic lawmaker described Scott as a "staple in this institution," and said they were sure he has a strong coalition behind him to power his re-election bid. The lawmaker added theres a tendency to underestimate the power that is wielded by those that really are the institution. In a sign hes digging in for a reelection fight, Scott is stepping up his campaign trail appearances and his reelect committee has socked away a war chest of $747,000, significantly more than in previous years, while spending nearly $20,000 on promotional materials like coffee mugs and screen printing in recent months, according to his latest spending report. Scott has also recently shelled out more than $35,000 to Molly Allen Associates, a consulting firm that helps elect moderate and conservative-leaning Democrats. As POLITICO has reported, Scott has defied a series of private efforts by some of his colleagues to replace him as the top Democrat on the Agriculture Committee panel. The Georgia Democrat told POLITICO in January of 2022 that efforts to oust him were the actions of a bunch of wannabe chairmen who are taking advantage of his physical health challenges in order to stage a mutiny. Obviously I'm not retiring. I'm looking forward to 2022, Scott said in that interview with POLITICO. I'm as strong and vibrant as a roaring lion. Jeffries last July denied that Scotts health had anything to do with Democrats creating the new agricultural task force. And, Jeffries was unequivocal that Scott remained the top Democrat related to these issues. But amid rank-and-file concerns about the trajectory of House Democrats farm bill negotiations under Scott last fall, House Democratic leaders quickly assembled a private meeting with committee Democrats to check in with their members and steady the situation, as one House Agriculture Democrat described. Democrats have generally praised Scotts recent steps to push for their partys key priorities in the massive farm bill, following the meeting blow-up last fall. Though, thats helped to fuel the current impasse, with Scott declining to go back to the negotiating table with Republicans. For now, some House Democrats are privately arguing they need to stick together to push back on GOP plans for the farm bill. We just need to make the best of it for now, said a fourth Democratic lawmaker. Hes doing the best he can. Marissa Martinez contributed to this report. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Ahead of the Supreme Court decision on whether local governments can enforce anti-homeless camping ordinances, a healthcare organization in the city that sparked the case has launched an expose on what homelessness is like for rural Oregonians. On Monday, Grants-Pass-based organization AllCare Health uncovered Finding Home: A True Story of Life Outside. The 116-page report builds on state and national data on homelessness, but mostly features interviews with houseless people in Josephine, Curry and Jackson counties. Irresponsible and Unacceptable: Vega Pederson announces 4-point AMR plan In December, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments Annual Homeless Assessment Report revealed that Oregon had the countrys second-highest rate of unsheltered homelessness. During the Point in Time count conducted in January 2023, researchers said 20,142 Oregonians were experiencing homelessness. Of that number, 13,004 people about 64.6% of the homeless population were unsheltered. According to Julie Akins, former journalist and AllCares senior housing director who authored the report, organizations and advocates in the world of homeless services have regarded the federal data as an undercount, especially in rural areas that lack shelters where the homeless are counted. To account for this, the expose highlights interview subjects who sleep in areas that arent featured during the PIT count: abandoned buildings, rest stops, crawl spaces beneath vacant homes, etc. Dennis Quaid to portray Happy Face Killer in Paramount Plus series The report found that rural homelessness is more common for people over the age of 40, assaults are a common occurrence for the unhoused, and illnesses are worsened by chronic homelessness. AllCare Health cited Oregons lack of affordable housing as the source for these issues. The organization reported that homeless residents with housing required fewer trips to emergency rooms, fewer in-patient admissions and cheaper healthcare costs, compared to chronically homeless residents. Grants Pass chronic homeless population is at the center of a looming Supreme Court case. This spring, the federal court will determine whether the citys ban on sleeping and camping in public spaces violates the cruel and unusual punishment clause in the Constitution. Clark County Sheriffs Office: 5 deputies involved in shooting of man during welfare check Oregon should be caring for, not criminalizing, the homeless, Kelley Burnett, AllCare Healths chief medical officer, said in a statement. The Grants Pass case is a symptom of a social ill decades in the making. Taxpayers are footing the bill no matter what, and our data clearly shows that the most cost-effective way to rein in medical costs connected with caring for homeless Oregonians is to build more affordable housing now. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. When Rock Hill police arrested a 16-year-old boy Feb. 2 for an alleged armed crime spree, the only identification of the suspect detectives had was his eyes, nose, and skin tone, his defense lawyer said in court Tuesday. Prosecutors and defense lawyers debated in York County Family Court Tuesday whether those features alone were enough for Rock Hill Police Department detectives to make an arrest. Two stores and a man at an ATM were robbed at gunpoint over a four-day span in late January and early February. The Herald is not identifying the 16-year-old because of his age and a court order preventing identification of the teen. The Herald was the only media organization in court Tuesday. The 16-year-old teen was arrested Feb. 2 for armed robberies at a 7-Eleven on Jan. 28 and Budimans smoke shop on Feb. 1 in which three suspects were involved. In between those, authorities say, the teen used a gun when he robbed a man of more than $300 on Jan. 30 at an ATM on Ebenezer Road. The 16-year-old is charged as a juvenile with three armed robberies, weapons crimes and kidnapping. In one of the robberies at a smoke shop, a victim was bound with duct tape, prosecutors said. The arrested teen is on probation after a 2023 conviction as a juvenile for stealing a car, prosecutors said. The teen has not been convicted of any crime connected to the robberies, and his lawyer argued that police did not have enough evidence based on partial face features to arrest him. Are eyes, nose and skin tone enough? Visiting Family Court Judge W. Marsh Robertson of Greenville ruled police had enough probable cause to arrest the teen and the case could move forward. But Robertson said Tuesday afternoons court hearing over probable cause was not a trial. We are not here to decide if this juvenile is guilty, Robertson said. Rock Hill police detective Dustin Ochiltree said the teen was responsible for a rash of armed robberies. Police arrested the 16-year-old at a Cherokee Avenue duplex on Feb. 2 after another detective identified the teen using photos from the smoke shop robbery surveillance video, Ochiltree testified Tuesday. Victims in the cases identified the suspect as Hispanic, light-skinned or Middle Eastern, police and prosecutors said in court. However, the suspects identity was hidden each time by a mask or article of clothing over much of his face, authorities said. The smoke shop video was played in court Tuesday. It showed three masked suspects, all males, stealing from the store. A school resource officer at Northwestern High School, where the teen had been a student, also recognized the suspect, Ochiltree testified. On Feb. 2 police recovered a gun, sneakers, clothes and a mask from the duplex where the teen was arrested that match the robbery video, 16th Circuit Senior Solicitor Erin Joyner told Judge Robertson. Joyner said the teen had a gun and clothing that matched the suspect description, including the same pattern and style of pants as one suspect in the smoke shop robbery. It is illegal for anyone under age 18 to possess a handgun in South Carolina, and its unclear where that gun came from. But Arthur Hays, the teens lawyer from the 16th Circuit Public Defenders Office, argued law enforcement did not have enough probable cause to arrest the teen based only on eyes, nose and skin tone. There were no witness identifications or police line-ups and millions of people have similar clothes and Air Jordans sneakers, Hays argued. Whats more, police have not identified or arrested two others seen on robbery videos as being involved in the 7-Eleven and smoke shop robberies, Hays said. They have one officer saying I recognize that persons nose, Hays argued. All of this seems to be hanging on one officer. Judge decides if teen stays in jail After the judge ruled on probable cause, he then ruled the 16-year-old should stay jailed before a trial. Joyner, the prosecutor, argued public safety is at risk if the teen is released. He leaves home and he commits crimes, Joyner said of the 16-year-old. The 16-year-old suspect has been at a S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice jail since his arrest Feb. 2. A DJJ official said in court the agency believes the teen should stay jailed pending trial. Hays argued the teen is not a threat to the public and should be released. Judge Robertson disagreed and kept the 16-year-old in custody. It is in the best interest of both the child and the community that he remain in detention, Robertson ruled. The 16-year-old suspect was in court, but did not speak. His father was in court in the gallery but also did not speak during the hearing. The father and son embraced in court before the teen was led off to a holding cell by bailiffs. What happens next? The teen is charged as a juvenile. As the case stands now, any Family Court conviction would have a sentence that ends at age 22. Family Court cases in South Carolina do not have jury trials. A judge would determine if the teen is guilty, and any punishment if there is a guilty finding. No juvenile court trial date has been set. The investigation into the three armed robberies remains ongoing including efforts to identify the two other suspects from the 7-Eleven and smoke shop robberies, Rock Hill police Lt. Michael Chavis said after court. Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen, former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang and one of the godfathers of artificial intelligence (AI), Yoshua Bengio, were among hundreds who signed an open letter Wednesday calling for deepfake regulation. More than 400 AI experts, artists and politicians signed the letter, which urged governments to pass laws criminalizing deepfake child pornography and establishing criminal penalties for those who knowingly create or facilitate the spread of harmful deepfakes. The letter also suggested software developers and distributors be required to prevent their products from creating harmful deepfakes and be held liable if their measures are too easily circumvented. Deepfakes which the letter describes as non-consensual and grossly misleading AI-generated voices, images, or videos, that a reasonable person would mistake as real pose growing risks as AI technology has become more widely available. Deepfakes are a huge threat to human society and are already causing growing harm to individuals, communities, and the functioning of democracy, said Andrew Critch, an AI researcher at the University of California, Berkeley and lead author of the letter, in a statement. We need immediate action to combat the proliferation of deepfakes, and my colleagues and I created this letter as a way for people around the world to show their support for law-making efforts to stop deepfakes, he added. Explicit AI-generated images of pop superstar Taylor Swift went viral last month, prompting the White House to voice concerns. We are alarmed by the reports of the circulation of the false images, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at the time. While social media companies make their own independent decisions about content management, we believe they have an important role to play in enforcing their own rules to prevent the spread of misinformation and non-consensual, intimate imagery of real people, she added. Messages imitating President Biden also went out to New Hampshire voters last month, urging them not to cast their ballot in the states primary and highlighting concerns about the potential for election misinformation. Earlier this month, the Federal Communications Commission banned the use of AI-generated voices in robocalls. The Federal Trade Commission also proposed a rule last week that would prohibit the impersonation of individuals, pointing to the recent rise of AI-generated deepfakes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Claim: Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died from the COVID-19 vaccine. Rating: Rating: Unfounded Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died suddenly on Feb. 16, 2024, in an Arctic penal colony, where he was serving a 19-year prison sentence. After Navalny's death, some social media posts claimed he had died from a COVID-19 vaccine. "Alexei Navalny died from the COVID vaccine and the fact that nobody wants to admit it is shameful," said one X post that had more than 1 million views. "Why would you blame Putin for something Navalny did to himself by taking an experimental MRNA vaccine?" it continued. Another post claimed that "Navalny had 5 vaccines from Pfizer and died from a blood clot." (X user @BruinGOP) The theory that Alexei Navalny's death was caused by a COVID-19 vaccine is groundless and unsupported by factual evidence. Therefore, we have rated this claim as "Unfounded." First and foremost, as of Feb. 21, 2024, the exact cause of Alexei Navalny's death remained unknown, with autopsy results pending. Without concrete evidence or the completion of an independent investigation, attributing his death to any specific cause, including a COVID-19 vaccine, is purely speculative. Neither the statement released on the day of Navalny's death nor any other statement issued by Russian officials mentioned his death was related to a vaccine: On Feb. 16, 2024, in penal colony number 3, convict Alexei Navalny felt unwell after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness. The medical staff of the institution arrived immediately, and an ambulance team was called. All necessary resuscitation measures were carried out, which did not yield positive results. Doctors of the ambulance stated the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established. Navalny had been imprisoned in Russia since January 2021 and could not have received an mRNA vaccine the type purported to have caused his death in the viral posts as the Russian Ministry of Health did not approve that kind of inoculation. There is no evidence to confirm whether Navalny was vaccinated against COVID-19 at all. Additionally, false rumors about sudden deaths due to COVID-19 vaccinations have proliferated since the vaccines became available, without any basis in fact. Finally, although Russian prison authorities informed Navalny's mother that he suffered "sudden death syndrome," that does not indicate his death was vaccine-related, as social media users claimed. As Reuters reported, sudden death syndrome is "a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death." BBC Verify journalist Shayan Sardarizadeh underscored that the rumor claiming Navalny was killed by the vaccine was just one of many "pro-Kremlin conspiracy theories about Alexei Navalny's death." Pro-Kremlin conspiracy theories about Alexei Navalny's death are in full circle: - CIA/MI6 killed Navalny to blame Putin - Yulia Navalnaya and "her boyfriend" killed Navalny - Ukraine killed Navalny to get the $60bn US aid package - Navalny was killed by the Covid vaccine pic.twitter.com/YPXibFWvEb Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) February 19, 2024 U.S. officials have more directly called Russian President Vladimir Putin culpable for Navalny's death and promised sanctions, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby saying, "Regardless of the scientific answer, Putin's responsible for it." Navalny's spokesperson Kira Yarmysh went a step further, posting on X on Feb. 17 that "Alexey Navalny was murdered." We will update this article when new information comes to light about Navalny's cause of death. Snopes has also investigated whether Navalny's death notice was posted just two minutes after his official time of death and whether a widely shared image was the last photo of him alive. Sources: Dapcevich, Madison. "Did 45K People Die Within 3 Days of Getting COVID Vaccine?" Snopes, 22 July 2021, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/45000-people-die-covid-19-vaccine/. "EU Summons Russian Envoy, Demands Independent Investigation into Navalny's Death." Reuters, 20 Feb. 2024. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/eu-summons-russian-envoy-demands-independent-investigation-into-navalnys-death-2024-02-20/. Faulconbridge, Guy, et al. "Putin Foe Alexei Navalny Dies in Jail, West Holds Russia Responsible." Reuters, 16 Feb. 2024. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/jailed-russian-opposition-leader-navalny-dead-prison-service-2024-02-16/. Kasprak, Alex. "Did CDC Confirm That Thousands 'Died Suddenly' as a Result of COVID Vaccines?" Snopes, 20 Dec. 2022, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/cdc-died-suddenly-covid-vaccines/. Kurmanaev, Anatoly. "Here's What We Know About the Cause of Navalny's Reported Death." The New York Times, 16 Feb. 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/16/world/europe/navalny-cause-of-death.html. "Navalny's Death: The Full Russian Prison Service Statement." Reuters, 16 Feb. 2024. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russian-prison-service-statement-about-navalnys-death-2024-02-16/. Palma, Bethania. "No, There Weren't More COVID-19 Vaccine Deaths Than COVID-19 Deaths." Snopes, 22 July 2021, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/covid-vax-deaths-vs-covid-deaths/. Roth, Andrew, and Andrew Roth Moscow correspondent. "Russian Court Sentences Alexei Navalny to Further 19 Years in Prison." The Guardian, 4 Aug. 2023. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/04/russian-court-extends-alexei-navalny-sentence-in-penal-colony. "White House Promises 'Major Sanctions' on Russia in Response to Alexei Navalny's Death." AP News, 20 Feb. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/sanctions-navalny-putin-biden-ukraine-dc1a51954673398a0410f8a6320f39e8. , , , . https://covid19.rosminzdrav.ru/. Accessed 21 Feb. 2024. Hong Kong sees population increase in 2023 Xinhua) 08:59, February 21, 2024 HONG KONG, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) saw an increase in population in 2023 thanks to a net inflow of residents, official data showed Tuesday. The provisional estimate of the Hong Kong population was over 7.5 million at the end of 2023, an increase of 0.4 percent as compared with that at the end of 2022, the Census and Statistics Department of the HKSAR government said. The population increase was mainly attributable to a net inflow of 51,700 Hong Kong residents recorded during the period, with an inflow of 40,800 one-way permit holders and a net inflow of 10,800 other Hong Kong residents, the department said. Over the same period, a natural decrease of 21,200 was recorded, with 33,200 births and 54,400 deaths. A government spokesperson said the population registered an increase for the second consecutive year since normalcy resumed in Hong Kong. "Many Hong Kong residents who stayed abroad during the epidemic have returned to Hong Kong throughout 2023. In the second half of 2023, there was still considerable inflow of Hong Kong permanent residents," the spokesperson said, adding that the increase is also attributable to the successive admission of mainland and overseas persons through various schemes into Hong Kong. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Claim: Executive Order 9066, signed by U.S. President Joe Biden, provides immigrants who enter the United States illegally a cell phone, a free plane ticket to a destination of their choosing and a $5000 Visa Gift Card. Rating: Rating: False On Dec. 5, 2023, Mark Lamb, the sheriff of Pinal County, Arizona, and a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, posted a video to his X (the platform formerly known as Twitter) account claiming that upon entering the United States, migrants who cross the border illegally are given a cell phone, a domestic plane ticket to a destination of their choosing and a $5,000 Visa gift card. "That's the truth, folks. God bless!" Lamb concluded. It was not the truth. That did not stop the video from making the rounds on social media, however. On Feb. 19, 2024, the video began circulating again, this time with an oddly phrased twist. "Evil Joe Biden's Executive Order 9066 gives illegals a $5,000 VISA card to use as they wish. Joe Biden is BUYING votes! Do you agree?" one post on X read. (X user @CryptidAnalysis) There is no truthful information contained within this caption. Furthermore, Lamb's video greatly misrepresents the truth of what's happening on the U.S.-Mexico border. Here's a breakdown of these claims. Executive Order 9066 The mention of Executive Order 9066 jumped out at us immediately for two reasons: First, it is probably the most infamous executive order signed in the history of the United States; and second, it was signed in World War II and has absolutely nothing to do with U.S. President Joe Biden. Less than three months after Japan's Dec. 7, 1941, surprise attack on Pearl Harbor that led to America entering World War II, then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066. It authorized the United States military to forcibly move anyone in the country deemed a threat to national security to inland "internment camps." Over the course of 1942, over 120,000 Japanese Americans, many of them U.S. citizens, were deprived of their civil liberties, forcibly evicted and shuttled into internment camps in remote regions of the western United States. To this day, Executive Order 9066 is considered to have been one of the grossest violations of the U.S. Constitution in the nation's history. It was signed on Feb. 19, 1942. (We postulate that the posts re-sharing Lamb's video on or around Feb. 19 may have included mention of that executive order to slip them into searches and social media feeds commemorating the anniversary of Roosevelt's signing it.) The Cell Phone As reported by reliable media outlets like the The Associated Press, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has occasionally provided cell phones to migrants who have crossed into the United States. However, Lamb's video leaves out context that is vital to understanding what is actually going on here. The phrase "cell phone" is doing some heavy lifting. An ICE program called Alternatives to Detention allows migrants waiting for deportation hearings from the United States' painfully slow immigration courts to "remain in their communities contributing to their families and community organizations and, as appropriate, concluding their affairs in the U.S. as they move through immigration proceedings or prepare for departure." Individuals are considered for the program on a case-by-case basis to determine their required level of supervision. As a part of the program, many migrants download an application called SmartLink onto their cell phones, which allows ICE to monitor them with less hassle. If an immigrant eligible for the program does not have access to a smartphone, however, ICE provides them with a phone that has very limited capabilities. This phone can only connect to Wi-Fi, not cellular data, has limited calling capabilities and no messaging capabilities, and can only access the SmartLink application. The phone must be returned if its use is no longer required, for example if the immigrant acquires a personal phone or is deemed to need additional supervision. Critics have pushed back on this program as it stands, claiming that it violates rights to privacy. The Plane Ticket Claiming that migrants are given a "plane ticket to wherever they want to go in this country" is also a gross misrepresentation of the truth. First, most migrants do not receive any federal assistance towards traveling in the United States. If they do, these programs are sponsored by nonprofit organizations or local governments. Or, more recently, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's "Operation Lone Star," which has bused over 50,000 migrants to sanctuary cities like New York, Chicago and Washington, D.C. in about 18 months. According to a report from Nexstar released by Austin, Texas, NBC affiliate KXAN, Abbott's busing program has cost the state $124 million. Meanwhile, according to an October 2023 ABC report, the conditions on the buses are "disgusting and inhuman." In August 2023, a 3-year-old child died on an Operation Lone Star bus from Brownsville, Texas, to Chicago. In rare cases, nonprofit organizations and programs like Operation Lone Star have used plane tickets. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis famously sent a plane of migrants to the island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts. As Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson tightened restrictions on the rules about when buses could legally drop off migrants, Abbott's team responded by simply dropping migrants off outside the city limits or by using flights. Overall, however, we found no evidence for the claim that every migrant who entered the country was simply given a plane ticket to their final destination. The Gift Card This is just false. The Associated Press, Politifact and Verify have all cited evidence to debunk this exact claim, and Snopes has fact-checked similar claims about the federal government providing money for immigrants who enter the United States without authorization. In order to independently verify this for ourselves, we reached out to ICE and U.S. Border Patrol to ask for comment and will update this story if we hear back. Another source we used to fact-check the various parts of this claim was the work of the Gonzo journalist and documentarian Andrew Callaghan. On "Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan," his YouTube channel, Callaghan interviewed migrants who had just entered the United States, followed an Operation Lone Star bus until he was pulled over and stopped by police, and documented his illegal crossing of the Rio Grande river with two young men, called "coyotes," who guide migrants across the border for a fee. One of the X posts we noticed from Feb. 19, 2024, spreading this claim suggested that this supposed gift card was intended to be used as reimbursement for so called "coyotes" who guide migrants across the border, who reportedly charge $5,000. (X user @hshLauraJ) The coyotes Callaghan interviewed gave estimates ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per person for a border crossing. However, none of the migrants Callaghan spoke to mentioned anything about being given money or gift cards by ICE or U.S. Border Patrol. Sources: Alternatives to Detention | ICE. 20 Feb. 2024, https://www.ice.gov/features/atd. Arizona Border Crisis. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buZWVQuqx0o. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. Border Patrol Arrest. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5MxAMKmXAM. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "Deportation Agents Use Smartphone App to Monitor Immigrants." AP News, 11 Mar. 2022, https://apnews.com/article/immigration-covid-technology-business-health-2823ba115ab2c120d728881c0a7bb5e8. "Executive Order 9066: Resulting in Japanese-American Incarceration (1942)." National Archives, 22 Sept. 2021, https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/executive-order-9066. Garcia, Uriel J. "Texas Flies over 120 Immigrants to Chicago in Expansion of Gov. Greg Abbott's Busing Plan." The Texas Tribune, 20 Dec. 2023, https://www.texastribune.org/2023/12/20/texas-plane-immigrants-chicago-greg-abbott-busing/. Goodman, J. David. "Texas Has Bused 50,000 Migrants. Now It Wants to Arrest Them Instead." The New York Times, 18 Oct. 2023. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/18/us/migrants-buses-texas-abbott.html. House, The White. "Statement from President Joe Biden on the Day of Remembrance of Japanese American Incarceration." The White House, 19 Feb. 2024, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/02/19/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-the-day-of-remembrance-of-japanese-american-incarceration/. "Https://Twitter.Com/CryptidAnalysis/Status/1759650060810191179." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/CryptidAnalysis/status/1759650060810191179. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "Https://Twitter.Com/hshLauraJ/Status/1759647036486656241." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/hshLauraJ/status/1759647036486656241. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "Https://Twitter.Com/Sherifflamb1/Status/1732180656795631689." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/sherifflamb1/status/1732180656795631689. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. MacGuill, Dan. "Do 'Illegal' Refugees Receive $3,874 Per Month from the Government?" Snopes, 15 Nov. 2017, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/monthly-refugee-benefits/. "Migrant Child Dies on Gov. Abbott's Operation Lone Star Bus from Brownsville to Chicago." TPR, 12 Aug. 2023, https://www.tpr.org/border-immigration/2023-08-11/migrant-child-dies-in-gov-abbotts-operation-lone-star-bus-from-brownsville-to-chicago. Migrant Detention Camp. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dQ4-VNaG3s. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "Migrants Adults and Children Languish in Buses for Days at City 'Landing Zone.'" Chicago Sun-Times, 9 Jan. 2024, https://chicago.suntimes.com/2024/1/8/24030153/migrants-languish-buses-days-city-landing-zone. News, A. B. C. "Migrant Bus Conditions 'disgusting and Inhuman,' Says Former Veteran Who Escorted Convoys." ABC News, https://abcnews.go.com/US/migrant-bus-conditions-disgusting-inhuman-former-vet-escorted/story?id=104038204. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "No, the Government Does Not Give $5,000 Gift Cards to People Who Enter the U.S. Illegally." Verifythis.Com, 14 Dec. 2023, https://www.verifythis.com/article/news/verify/immigration/does-government-give-5000-gift-cards-plane-tickets-cell-phones-migrants-fact-check/536-92a5ed2a-5ab7-4eb2-8190-280508ae26ee. Operation Lone Star Buses Over 50,000 Migrants To Sanctuary Cities. https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/operation-lone-star-buses-over-50000-migrants-to-sanctuary-cities. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "Phones given to US Immigrants Have Limited Uses." AP News, 24 May 2023, https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-immigrant-phone-internet-texting-521577996794. Puente, Michael. "Chicago Is Tightening Restrictions on Buses Dropping off Migrants from Texas." NPR, 6 Jan. 2024. NPR, https://www.npr.org/2024/01/06/1223287116/chicago-is-tightening-restrictions-on-buses-dropping-off-migrants-from-texas. "Records: Abbott's Migrant Busing Has Cost Texas $124 Million." KXAN Austin, 2 Feb. 2024, https://www.kxan.com/investigations/records-abbotts-migrant-busing-has-cost-texas-124-million/. Sandoval, Edgar, et al. "The Story Behind DeSantis's Migrant Flights to Martha's Vineyard." The New York Times, 2 Oct. 2022. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/02/us/migrants-marthas-vineyard-desantis-texas.html. "Smartphone Monitoring." BI Incorporated, https://bi.com/mobile-monitoring/. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. Staff, Snopes. "Can 'Illegal Immigrants' Claim $24,000 'Amnesty Bonuses'?" Snopes, 13 Feb. 2015, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/irs-amnesty-bonuses/. Texas Border Crisis. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akrF8X0KgGg. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "To Trace the Origins of Busing Migrants to Chicago, Start with Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson and Ted Cruz." Chicago Sun-Times, 16 Feb. 2024, https://chicago.suntimes.com/immigration/2024/02/15/busing-migrants-chicago-texas-origins-start-donald-trump-tucker-carlson-ted-cruz. Uribe, Maria Ramirez. "PolitiFact - No, the U.S. Government Is Not Giving People Who Crossed the Border Illegally $5,000 Gift Cards." @politifact, https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2023/dec/19/mark-lamb/no-the-us-government-is-not-giving-people-who-cros/. Accessed 20 Feb. 2024. "US Senate Candidate Spreads False Claims about Migrant Aid." AP News, 13 Dec. 2023, https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-government-cell-phone-plane-gift-card-migrant-888004665809. Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, takes part in a meeting of European Union foreign ministers in Brussels LONDON (Reuters) - Yulia Navalnaya has vowed to continue the fight of her dead husband Alexei Navalny for a "free Russia" and called on supporters to oppose President Vladimir Putin with greater fury than ever. What do we know about Navalnaya? HER FAMILY AND CHILDHOOD Yulia Navalnaya was born Yulia Abrosimova on June 24, 1976, in Moscow. Her father, Boris Abrosimov, was a scientist and her mother worked in the government. A graduate of the prestigious Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Navalnaya worked for some time in a Moscow bank. FAMILY LIFE WITH NAVALNY She met her future husband, then a young lawyer, while on holiday in Turkey in 1998. He was captivated by her ability to name all of Russia's current ministers by heart, the Sobesednik newspaper wrote in a 2020 article about the couple. They married two years later and Navalnaya became a stay-at-home mother to the couple's children, Daria, born in 2001, and Zakhar, born in 2008. She and Navalny were both once members of the liberal Yabloko party. SUPPORTING HER HUSBAND Navalnaya frequently appeared beside her husband at rallies, on the campaign trail and in the courtroom during his many trials. She attended his first significant criminal trial in Kirov in 2013, sitting calmly behind him as he faced 10 years in prison for allegedly stealing from a timber firm while working for Kirov's liberal governor. "These bastards will never see our tears," she said after Navalny was handed a five-year sentence. He was unexpectedly released the next day following protests, and his sentence was later suspended. Navalnaya was by her husband's side throughout his subsequent Moscow mayoral campaign in 2013, appearing on stage in front of a crowd of thousands to urge Muscovites to vote for him. NAVALNY'S POISONING Navalnaya played a key role in her husband's evacuation in August 2020 from Russia to a German hospital, where he underwent treatment for what Western laboratory tests showed was an attempt to poison him with a nerve agent in Siberia. Navalnaya sent a letter to the Kremlin directly appealing for it to intervene and for it to grant permission for Navalny to be allowed to fly out of Russia. The Kremlin said in response that it did not receive an official request for Navalny's transfer from his representatives, but that it had heard about the message from social networks. Navalny's doctors in Omsk repeatedly delayed his transfer, citing his poor health. Two days after Navalny's hospitalisation a plane organised by a Germany-based nonprofit arrived to take him to Berlin. Asked whether the authorities intervened to prevent Navalny from reaching Germany, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "That is the decision of the attending physician." MULTIPLE ARRESTS Navalnaya has been arrested multiple times at protests related to her husband and his activist work. She was detained twice in January 2021 at Moscow rallies held in support of Navalny after he was jailed on returning to Russia. "Sorry for the poor quality. Very bad light in the paddy wagon," she captioned a selfie posted to Instagram. She was later fined 20,000 roubles ($265) by a court. EMOTIONAL TOLL The government's pressure on her husband was not always easy for Navalnaya to manage. Navalny told Reuters in 2017, ahead of his 2018 presidential run, that security services were tracking his wife and children, then aged 15 and nine. "Cars are constantly passing by. I don't even pay attention to it any more, but Yulia is really bothered by it," Navalny said. "The main feeling I had was that I shouldn't relax, show weakness," Navalnaya said in an interview conducted in Germany after her husband's poisoning. "If I fall apart, everyone will fall apart." FUTURE PLANS Navalnaya released a video message on Monday entitled "I will continue the work of Alexei Navalny". Currently living outside the country, she said she wants to "build a free Russia", but has yet to spell out her plans or to say where she will be based. (This story has been corrected to say 'he was unexpectedly released the next day following protests, and his sentence was later suspended,' instead of 'he was released several months later by a court,' in paragraph 9) (Reporting and writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Nick Macfie) Volodymyr Zelenskyy's speech in the Verkhovna Rada in May 2022 For the first time since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Volodymyr Zelenskyy will gather all parliamentarians from his political party to discuss the war and further plans on the evening of Feb. 21. The head of state will meet with his MPs in the Verkhovna Rada for the first time in two years of the full-scale invasion, NV was told by four sources in the presidential faction. Read also: President Zelenskyy vows quick measures in response to Polish border blockade According to one of the sources, the lawmakers had requested a similar meeting with the President a year ago, but it never took place. "This time, David [Arakhamia, head of the faction] pressed [the Presidents Office on the issue of a meeting with the Zelenskyy]," the source said. Arakhamia will moderate the discussion. The legislators have already sent him questions for the President. Read also: Ukrainians strongly support Zelenskyy, but number that think he should go post-war has increased According to the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, there is no set agenda for the meeting. However, the main topic of the meeting will be the two years of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. One of the "servants" told the editorial board that he expects to hear from the President about "preserving unity in Ukrainian society" and what the future plan is. Another source from the faction believes that at the meeting, "many colleagues will recall why they came [to parliament], with whom and on the back of whose popularity." 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 This article was originally published in EdNC. During the height of the pandemic, states received nearly $122 billion in Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief (ESSER III) funds to address student academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs. North Carolina received $3.6 billion, on top of previous federal Covid relief dollars. Now, districts must spend those funds by Sept. 30 a deadline coming to be known as the funding cliff. On Monday, officials from the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) presented a ESSER Funding Cliff Toolkit to state lawmakers at a House education reform meeting. The toolkit seeks to help districts with data-driven financial decision making for post-ESSER spending, per DPIs presentation. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The toolkit is built to really support leaders in public schools as they think about the end of ESSER funding, said Dr. Michael Maher, DPIs deputy state superintendent. The idea is we want districts to be able to have the toolkit to have really good conversations about how they spent their money, and whether those funds were effective or not. States received three rounds of ESSER funding during the pandemic. The first round roughly $13.2 billion largely went toward personal protective equipment and devices for students to safely reopen schools. The second and third rounds nearly $123 billion were a little more flexible, but were intended to support academic and mental health at schools as they recovered from Covid. DPIs toolkit is specifically designed to help discussions between district leaders like the superintendent (or charter school leader), chief financial officer, and administrators with budgetary responsibilities. DPI presented the toolkit to superintendents across the state last month, Maher said, and is also hosting regional sessions in February. Districts should not include any one-time expenditures in their ROI discussions, per the presentation. Interventions that might be discussed in this process include high-dosage tutoring, summer learning initiatives, and robotics programs. The expectation is that the district now really has to make a decision about whether or not to continue an intervention, Maher said. In essence, this is what were trying to do, is give them the best available data that we can to help them drive themselves to the right decision for their given school, for their given context. Here are a few strategies the presentation identified for continuing initiatives currently funded through federal relief funds: Apply for specific grant funding, from private or federal sources. Request an increase in local funding from county commissioners. Use an innovative approach of braiding or overlapping federal funds. Identify funding from within current budget. You can view DPIs full presentation here, and its full toolkit here. Check out DPIs dashboards for ESSER spending by school district here. More on remaining funds, cliff In March 2021, State Superintendent Catherine Truitt created the Office of Learning Recovery and Acceleration to help find and make evidence-based decisions regarding recovery from lost instructional time during the start of the pandemic with a large focus on how to spend ESSER funds well. The state received roughly $6 billion total in federal Covid funds for K-12 education, Maher told lawmakers. Approximately $1.3 billion of North Carolinas ESSER III funds remained to be allocated as of Oct. 31, according to a December report by The 74. Related ESSER Funds: NC Districts Played It Safe on Teacher Pay & May Avoid Fiscal Cliff DPIs toolkit includes a starting point for districts of last December through the end of this month. During this time, the presentation says, districts should convene a team to focus on evaluating ESSER spending. The toolkit presentation includes the following questions: What is the PSUs risk for a dramatic fiscal cliff post-ESSER? What initiatives/programs/expenditures will different groups of stakeholders be most interested in sustaining post-ESSER? What are the PSUs top 2-3 priorities and which expenditures most support those priorities? Districts should obligate all their funds by April or May of 2024, Maher said. This is to ensure no funds get reverted back to the federal government after the September deadline. An ERS report issued in March 2023 identified 15 states facing the most complex challenges with the cliff. North Carolina was one of them. However, a recent FutureEd analysis found that North Carolina school districts especially in rural regions generally spent more of their ESSER funds on short-term staffing fixes than long-term personnel commitments. This decision could potentially ease their fiscal pain when the funds run out, the 74 report found. On Monday, Rep. Brian Biggs, R-Randolph, asked Maher about how DPI is approaching planning for the replacement of technologies funded in the last few years through ESSER dollars. The technology, after two or three years, its just outdated. And thats my big concern with the direction were headed in right now, Biggs said. If we cant keep up with our students and our parents, theyre gonna find somewhere where they can keep up. Last month, DPI also gave a presentation to the education reform committee on student devices and home connectivity. That report showed that 114 of 115 school districts currently have one device per student. This allows students to take devices home with them to help with studying and homework. However, 89 of 115 districts have reported they do not currently have sufficient resources to sustain their refresh cycles for student devices beyond ESSER funding. Thats more than 77% of districts. Maher said that a large chunk of ESSER funds have gone toward HVAC systems, technology hardware and infrastructure, and access to broadband. He said DPI is still discussing how districts can replenish technology as it becomes, in essence, out of date. Rep. John Torbett, R-Gaston, said good data will be key to good decisions moving forward. Were going into post-Covid and those monies are running out, Torbett said. Hopefully, we have worked procedures out to help those agencies that used that money. For one time purposes should be okay, but there were some that have used the money for recurring expenses that well be probably be hearing about in the days and weeks to come. If you have additional questions about DPIs toolkit, email Rachel Wright-Junio, director of the Office of Learning Recovery & Acceleration, or Dr. Andrew Smith, the assistant state superintendent of DPIs Office of Innovation. This article first appeared on EducationNC and is republished here under a Creative Commons license. U.S. prosecutors have charged a man identified as a leader of the Japanese organized crime syndicate Yakuza with conspiring to traffic nuclear materials from Myanmar to other countries, according to a superseding indictment announced Wednesday. Authorities said they brought the charges against Takeshi Ebisawa after he and other associates in Thailand allegedly showed samples of nuclear material to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent posing as a narcotics and weapons trafficker. The Department of Justice (DOJ) said in a press release that the U.S. worked with Thai authorities to seize the nuclear samples, which were subsequently transferred to U.S. law enforcement custody. A U.S. nuclear forensic lab confirmed the samples contained uranium and weapons-grade plutonium, according to the DOJ. Federal prosecutors stressed the significance of the charges against a leader of the Yakuza, a crime syndicate that operates in multiple countries around the world. Ebisawas criminal activities have included large-scale narcotics and weapons trafficking, and his international criminal network extends through Asia, Europe, and the United States, among other places, the indictment states. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams for the Southern District of New York said in a statement its impossible to overstate the seriousness of the conduct alleged in todays Indictment. As alleged, Takeshi Ebisawa brazenly trafficked material containing uranium and weapons-grade plutonium from Burma to other countries. He allegedly did so while believing that the material was going to be used in the development of a nuclear weapons program, and the weapons-grade plutonium he trafficked, if produced in sufficient quantities, could have been used for that purpose, Williams said. Even as he allegedly attempted to sell nuclear materials, Ebisawa also negotiated for the purchase of deadly weapons, including surface-to-air missiles, Williams stated. According to the indictment, the undercover DEA agent agreed to broker the sale of the nuclear materials from Ebisawa to an associate posing as an Iranian general. Ebisawa has been charged along with another defendant who was also previously accused of international narcotics trafficking and firearm offenses in 2022. The pair will be arraigned before a judge Thursday afternoon. DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said the defendants allegedly offered the nuclear material fully expecting that Iran would use it for nuclear weapons. This is an extraordinary example of the depravity of drug traffickers who operate with total disregard for human life, Milgram said in a statement. Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen similarly warned of the potential danger if the nuclear material had actually been sold. Olsen said Ebisawa was allegedly conspiring to sell the nuclear material from Myanmar and to purchase military weaponry on behalf of an armed insurgent group. It is chilling to imagine the consequences had these efforts succeeded, and the Justice Department will hold accountable those who traffic in these materials and threaten U.S. national security and international stability, Olsen said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A humpback whale calf playing in the warm waters of Moorea in French Polynesia. Once the calves are strong enough, they will make the long journey with their mother back to the feeding grounds of Antarctica. Baleen whales , including todays blue , humpback , and fin whales rely on sounds to live in their watery world. Their songs must be able travel far in the murky, dark ocean so that they can find their kin and migrate hundreds of thousands of miles . In the more than 50 years that scientists have been studying whale song, its remained unclear what physical structures baleen whales use to make noise until now. A study published February 21 in the journal Nature finds that baleen whales evolved unique parts in their larynx that create their complex vocalizations. [Related: The planets first filter feeder could be this extinct marine reptile .] Whales are absolutely amazing creatures, they are the biggest animals to have ever lived. Theyre way bigger than the largest dinosaurs, they can dive deep, and are very social, Coen Elemans , study co-author and a voice scientist at the University of Southern Denmark, tells PopSci. Because it is so difficult to find another animal in a huge ocean, many of these behaviors are guided by sound. Thus understanding how they make sound is crucial to understand the biology of whales in general. Toothed whales vs. baleen whales Whales fall into two main groups toothed whales (Odontocetes) and baleen whales (Mysticetes). Toothed whales include, orcas , sperm whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Many of these species have visible teeth that they use to crush their prey. Baleenor whaleboneis a hard substance made up of keratin . It grows from the whales upper jaw in plates with bristle-like fringes. It works like a sieve to filter out the small fish or zooplankton that it eats. Baleen whales make sound with their larynx and toothed whales in their nose, explains Elemans. Both use the same mechanism of vibrating tissues just like human vocal folds, but with completely new structures. Evolving new vocal structures In the study , the team examined three stranded whales. Each specimen was from different baleen speciessei, common minke, and humpback whale. Whales that strand themselves on the beach can provide researchers with an opportunity to study their anatomy closer. After the larynx of each whale species was extracted, the team built a computational model of the entire whale larynx in the lab. The model included accurate 3D shapes of the muscles surrounding the larynx , which made it possible to simulate how the sound frequency is controlled by muscle movement. Adaptations in mysticete laryngeal anatomy. a, Mysticetes are one of two extant clades of cetaceans. b, Laryngeal cartilages in representative species. c, Unique mysticete adaptations in the upper respiratory tract and larynx6,16,17. d, Top, side view showing the laryngeal cartilages in an annotated CT image of the larynx of a female sei whale. Bottom, medial section showing the muscles within the TAF and CC. Arrows indicate the direction of the muscle fibre. e, Dorsal view (left) with the CC removed and associated sagittal slices (right) showing the characteristic U-shaped fused arytenoid cartilages bearing the bilateral vocalis muscle. LS, laryngeal sac. f, A 3D rendering showing the tight fit between the arytenoids and the CC. g,h, CT-based renderings of the larynx of a minke whale (g) and a humpback whale (h), showing that the latter has a more flexible configuration of arytenoids. Scale bars, 10 cm. CREDIT: Elemans et. al. 2024. They found that baleen whales evolved to produce sound with the vibrations of specific internal structures in the larynx, that toothed whales do not have. These specialized structures in baleen whales allow for sound to be produced and air recycled, while preventing the whales from inhaling water. While both types of whales can still produce sound with their larynx, baleen whales have novel structures that do this. They use cartilages called the arytenoids that are also found in the human larynx. The arytenoids change the position of human vocal folds. In baleen whales, they appear as large, long cylinders at the base of a U-shaped rigid structure that covers the full length of the larynx, instead of small cartilage. This helps keep their airway open when moving large amounts of air through their massive bodies and not choke. A painting of a humpback whale, indicating the cartilages of the larynx. CREDIT: Patricia Jaqueline Matic. The toothed and baleen whales evolved from land mammals that had a larynx serving two functions: protecting the airways and sound production, Tecumseh Fitch, a study co-author and biologist at the University of Vienna in Austria, said in a statement . However, their transition to aquatic life placed new and strict demands on the larynx to prevent choking underwater. Turn it down While the study showed how baleen whales produce low frequency vocalizations for the first time, thesound production that they have honed over millions of years of evolution is becoming threatened in an increasingly noisy ocean . They cant make sound very deep and most species cant make high frequencies, says Elemans. This limits the range of their communication. On top of that, these depths and frequencies overlap with human made noise in the oceans, such as boat traffic, and thus the whales cannot escape this noise by singing for example higher. [Related: Is it loud in the ocean? ] The authors cite the flurry of conservation and political activity in the wake of the first acoustic recordings of humpback whale song in 1970. Roger and Katy Paynes album Songs of the Humpback Whale was considered so important that selections from it were included on a record aboard the Voyager 1 spacecraft , to give any extraterrestrials who may find the spacecraft an idea of what life on Earth is like. The oceans have only gotten noisier since the 1970s, and similar conservation efforts are needed to reduce noise. We need strict regulations for such noise, because these whales are dependent on sound for communication, Elemans said in a statement. Now we show that despite their amazing physiology they literally cannot escape the noise humans make in the oceans. Mansfield Fire Department celebrated its firefighters and emergency medical technicians at its annual banquet Saturday at the Mansfield Liederkranz. Mike Blair named 2023 Firefighter of the Year Firefighter Mike Blair was awarded the 2023 Firefighter of the Year award for the Mansfield Fire Department. Mansfield Firefighter Mike Blair was awarded the 2023 Firefighter of the Year award. He has been nominated for the award for three years in a row. Blair has been nominated for this award for three years in a row and was nominated by several members this year. He is currently assigned to Station 4 on A crew and is an active member of the HazMat team. He is a vice president of Local 266 IAFF and very active in the fire department Honor Guard. He is dedicated to his profession and regularly goes above and beyond. He is very involved in training, not only for himself but also for probationary firefighters. Blair sets a good example for others through his hard work both around the station and on the fire ground, according to information provided by the fire department awards committee. Blair has been with the department for 11 years. Lt. Charlie Swank named EMT of the Year Mansfield fire Lt. Charlie Swank was chosen as EMT Award of the Year. As an officer of the department, Swank is not often assigned to the rescue. He does, however, take a very active leadership role in EMS. Swank is a member of the EMS committee and has spent countless hours reviewing and implementing new EMS protocols. He stays current with national standards and is always willing to pass on his knowledge to other department members. He regularly volunteers to assist in teaching or setting up EMS training. He is an invaluable asset in the department's EMS division. Swank always leads by example and puts the needs of his patients first, the awards committee said. Swank has been with the department for eight years. He is currently assigned to Station 4. Firefighter Brian Briggs awarded Purple Heart Firefighter Brian Briggs was awarded a Purple Heart for an injury sustained on fire run #23002866. On April 7, at 01:43 a.m., units were dispatched to a possible structure fire on Home Avenue. Engine 1 arrived on scene to find a two-story house with heavy fire on the first and second floors. Briggs entered the second floor of the structure with his crew by way of a ground ladder. While they were searching for attic access, he fell through an open stairwell from the second floor to the basement, striking another firefighter on his way down. Despite the severity of his fall, Briggs was able to walk out of the basement under his own power and miraculously only missed three weeks of work with minor injuries. Briggs truly put his life on the line in service to the community, the awards committee said. Firefighter Pete Champer awarded Purple Heart Firefighter Pete Champer was awarded a Purple Heart for an injury sustained on fire run #220007801. On August 23, 2022, at 6:09 p.m. were dispatched to U.S. 30 for an accident with injuries. Upon arrival, E-6 and R-1 found a head-on collision between an Ohio Edison truck and a dump truck. Both vehicles sustained very heavy front-end damage and both drivers were suffering from life-threatening injuries. Both drivers had to be extricated from their vehicles, with one succumbing to his injuries and the other losing his lower extremity. Due to road construction, all tools and patients had to be lifted over a five-foot concrete barrier. Units also had to deal with slippery working conditions from oil covering the roadway. At some point during this call, Champer injured his shoulder, which he would later have surgically repaired. Even though he had a significant injury, he continued to work until the scene was cleared. Champer would later miss over one year of work because of his injuries. Thus, Champer was awarded with a Purple Heart award. lwhitmir@gannett.com 419-521-7223 X (formerly Twitter):@LWhitmir This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Firefighters, EMTs lauded at annual Mansfield Fire Department banquet Firefighters on Monday night battled a two-story structure fire on Seventh Street in uptown Victorville. Flames shot into the night sky as firefighters battled a two-story structure fire in uptown Victorville. The Victorville Fire Department responded to the incident around 9 p.m. Monday at 14425 Seventh Street near Lorene Drive and St. Andrews Drive. Heavy smoke billowed as firefighters battled the blaze on the ground and from above with hosed water shooting down on the structure from extended fire ladders. The nearly 9,000 square-foot multi-tenant office building, which was built in 1974, is sandwiched between Alamilla's Taco Shop and Pep Boys. Agencies assisting at the incident included the Apple Valley Fire Protection District and the San Bernardino County Fire and Sheriffs Departments. Southwest Gas and Southern California Edison were called out to cut utilities to the building. Firefighters on Monday night battled a two-story structure fire on Seventh Street in uptown Victorville. Firefighters were still at the scene at 2 a.m. on Tuesday. Witnesses told the Daily Press the building had been abandoned. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Other uptown fires Over the years, firefighters have responded to other large structure fires near Seventh Street and St. Andrews Drive in uptown Victorville. In September 2020, a fire destroyed a vacant restaurant at 14269 Seventh Street in Victorville. City officials said during the incident, first responders found a man inside the building. He was taken to a hospital for possible smoke inhalation. The building was eventually demolished. In April 2018, firefighters battled a strip mall fire in the 14000 block of St. Andrews Drive in Victorville. Several businesses were spared while the fire damaged several vacant units. Firefighters have also responded to numerous smaller camp, vegetation, and trash fires in the area. This story is developing and further details will be added as they become available. This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Firefighters battle structure fire in uptown Victorville The first four Ukrainian pilots will complete their training on F-16 fighter jets by summer. Source: CNN, citing the Arizona National Guard Details: The pilots commenced training in mid-October with the 162nd Fighter Regiment in Tucson, Arizona. The Pentagon noted that the training process will take several months. Captain Erin Hannigan, spokesperson for the Arizona National Guard, said a second group of four pilots began training in January, and a third group of four pilots is currently attending English language courses that are required prior to undergoing training to fly the fourth-generation US fighter jets. All pilots are expected to finish their training in the period from May to August, although the exact timeline varies depending on the progress of the programme. Background: On 14 February, a meeting was held in the Ramstein format, during which Ukraine's partners reported on progress in training Ukrainian pilots and delivering Western fighter jets to Ukraine. Following the meeting, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umierov announced that "everything is going according to schedule and within the framework of all agreements with partners". The F-16s are expected to arrive in Ukraine this spring, which the head of Ukraine's mission to NATO described as realistic. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte stated that the fighter jets may be delivered "on schedule", adding that there will be at least 24 aircraft. Denmark and the Netherlands were the first countries to commit to providing Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, although this will happen after Ukrainian pilots have completed their training. Norway and Belgium have also made similar pledges. The Ukrainian government has repeatedly stated that the commitment of Western-made fighter jets to Ukraine could change the situation on the battlefield, as Russia currently has "complete air superiority" in the occupied territories. Support UP or become our patron! Humza Yousaf has lost in the courts and in politics and is leaking support, the Scottish Tories claim - Jane Barlow/PA Wire Rishi Sunak has said Humza Yousaf has very little to show for being First Minister for nearly a year. The Prime Minister argued the most memorable moments in Mr Yousafs short tenure have been Michael Matheson quitting over his 11,000 roaming charges bill and a comprehensive court defeat on Nicola Sturgeons self-ID gender laws. He attacked Mr Yousaf for focusing on independence since he succeeded Ms Sturgeon in March last year, arguing it was a distraction from his domestic responsibilities such as schools and hospitals. Writing in the programme for next weeks Scottish Tory conference in Aberdeen, Mr Sunak also lambasted the SNP and Labour for failing to support the North Sea oil and gas industry. Tens of thousands of energy workers are employed in the North East of Scotland and the Tories are hoping to make gains in the area in the upcoming general election. Industry leaders have reacted with hostility to Sir Keir Starmers plans to increase the North Sea windfall tax from 75 per cent to 78 per cent and extend it to 2029. Both the SNP and Labour have also expressed opposition to the licensing of new fields. Rishi Sunak buoys Scottish Tories ahead of their annual conference in Aberdeen - JESSICA TAYLOR/UK PARLIAMENT/AFP Douglas Ross said every single seat in the North East of Scotland would be a straight fight between the Tories and Humza Yousafs SNP. In his programme foreword, the Scottish Tory leader told his party members: With your help, we can make the difference between the SNP having a bad or terrible night and win key constituencies right across the country. Mr Matheson resigned as Health Secretary on Feb 8, three months after The Telegraph disclosed he had racked up 10,935.74 phone bill while on a family holiday in Morocco. He then claimed the money from the public purse by arguing he had been conducting constituency business. He did not apologise for his actions in his resignation letter and is eligible for 12,712 severance pay from the public purse. In December, a senior judge ruled Mr Sunaks government acted lawfully by blocking the SNPs controversial Gender Recognition Reform (GRR) Bill amid concerns it undermined UK-wide protections for women. This would have allowed Scots to change their legal gender by simply signing a statutory declaration, with no medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria, and dropped the age limit to 16. Mr Sunak said: Humza Yousaf has been in office for nearly a year and has very little to show for it a lost court case on the SNPs ill-considered gender recognition plans, a shamed former health secretary and seven new prospectus papers on independence. All a distraction from focusing on improving the schools, hospitals and roads he is responsible for. The Prime Minister also accused Labour of having no plan to deliver for Scotland either, warning that Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer will take us back to square one. He added: Neither Labour nor the SNP are prepared to back Scotlands oil and gas industry - risking jobs and our energy security. Mr Ross said the North East was Scotlands economic engine but this was being undermined by an SNP / Green government at Holyrood that is hell-bent on raising taxes. At the same time, Labour is threatening to close down the North Sea oil and gas sector if they win the next general election, despite it being such an important employer in the region, he said. Keith Brown, the SNPs depute leader, said: After 17 years of delivering for people across Scotland, a recent poll showed that the SNP remains the most trusted party on the economy, health, education and cost of living while the the Tory government is down and out - and Keir Starmers Labour Party is showing that the Westminster system is broken beyond repair. 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. Former FirstEnergy CEO Charles "Chuck" Jones, left, and former FirstEnergy Senior VP of External Affairs Michael Dowling in Summit County Court during an arraignment heating with Judge Susan Baker Ross on charges related to the FirstEnergy scandal on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Akron, Ohio. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] The first criminal charges have been filed against two former FirstEnergy executives, nearly four years after the initial arrests of former Ohio House speaker Larry Householder and others in Ohios ongoing House Bill 6 corruption scandal. The company says it has taken significant steps to move forward. Yet issues related to HB 6 continue to play a role in the companys push to raise ratepayer charges, ongoing shareholder litigation and more. A flurry of filings over the last several weeks reflects additional developments: Sam Randazzo, the former head of Ohios utilities commission, was also named in the state of Ohios indictment against former FirstEnergy executives Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling. Randazzo now faces criminal charges in both state and federal courts. Ohios consumer advocate wants to freeze a FirstEnergy grid modernization case until questions are resolved about Randazzos tenure at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. Briefing wrapped up in an Ohio regulatory case that could let FirstEnergy collect $1.4 billion or more in added rider charges over an eight-year period. FirstEnergy continues to be under fire in shareholder litigation, where opponents say it has dragged its feet on providing its internal HB 6 investigation and other disclosures. FirstEnergy has dropped its pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2030, just three years after making that commitment. Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and lobbyist Matt Borges continue to pursue appeals from their criminal sentences. Borges filed his appellate brief in January, and the governments reply is due next month. Former FirstEnergy execs Chuck Jones, Michael Dowling face charges in connection with corruption scandal surrounding Ohios 2019 nuclear and coal bailout law Former FirstEnergy CEO Charles "Chuck" Jones arrives in Summit County Court with his attorney Carole Rendon to be arraigned before Judge Susan Baker Ross on charges related to the FirstEnergy scandal on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Akron, Ohio. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] The state of Ohios Feb. 9 indictment against former FirstEnergy executives Chuck Jones and Mike Dowling marks the first time anyone from the company has been criminally charged in connection with the corruption scandal surrounding Ohios 2019 nuclear and coal bailout law. Sam Randazzo, the former chair of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, was also charged, along with two pass-through companies linked to him. The story told by the 27-count indictment centers around the three mens alleged joint enterprise to hijack Ohios regulatory structure for the benefit of FirstEnergy, Ohio Attorney General David Yost said. The charges include multiple counts of bribery, theft, money laundering, telecommunications fraud, record tampering, and a pattern of corrupt activity. The allegations relate to House Bill 6 but also include other actions reaching back more than a decade. The first criminal charges against Jones and Dowling are critical and long-overdue steps forward in bringing justice for the people of Ohio, said Rachael Belz, CEO of advocacy group Ohio Citizen Action. Federal charges against former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and others were filed nearly four years ago. Yet the states criminal prosecution seemed to be in slow gear until last spring, when the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission began looking into the matter. Ohioans continue to bear the cost of corruption, Ohio Consumers Counsel Maureen Willis said in response to the charges. She called for an immediate end to HB 6s coal plant subsidies and a refund of all amounts paid. The indictment also spurred the Ohio Environmental Council to renew its call for a full investigation into PUCO activities during Randazzos tenure. Beyond the 2019 laws nuclear and coal plant subsidies, Randazzo played a role in HB 6s gutting of Ohios clean energy standards. The charges have implications for current energy policy, too. Just this month, Ohio legislators debated allowing investor-owned utilities to own more generation under the guise of reliability, said Nolan Rutschilling, managing director of energy policy for the group. How can we justify giving our utilities more control over our energy system? The defendants have pled not guilty. Sam Randazzo charged in two criminal cases on bribery, embezzlement counts Former Public Utilities Chairman Sam Randazzo and his wife Carol Farmer leave Summit County Court after an arraignment hearing before Judge Susan Baker Ross on charges related to the FirstEnergy scandal on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Akron, Ohio. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] The states indictment means Randazzo now faces charges in two criminal cases. The federal government indicted him in December on 11 counts of bribery, embezzlement and other crimes. Its unclear whether both cases will proceed against Randazzo at the same time, or whether one case will be put on hold while the other moves ahead. A Feb. 13 notice in the states civil RICO lawsuit arising out of HB 6 told Judge Christopher Brown about the new criminal charges against Jones, Dowling, Randazzo and his companies. Its possible the court might put the civil case against those defendants on hold, but let it continue against FirstEnergy, Energy Harbor and other defendants. Just weeks before the new indictment, the Ohio Supreme Court said the Ohio Attorney Generals office could continue to freeze millions of dollars of Randazzos assets, which could be used to satisfy a judgment against him in the state case. On Feb. 9, Randazzo asked the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio to transfer his criminal case from Cincinnati to Columbus. He cited health issues and inconvenience to himself, witnesses and family members as reasons for the shift. The Feb. 9 filing also said likely witnesses in the federal case include current and former PUCO commissioners and staff, members of the Ohio executive branch, former state lawmakers, and current and representatives of FirstEnergy and Industrial Energy Users-Ohio (now called the Ohio Energy Leadership Council). The states indictment, filed that same day, alleges Randazzo told Gov. Mike DeWines chief of staff, Laurel Dawson, he got a $4.3 million payment from FirstEnergy due to a consulting agreement. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted dined with Dowling and Jones the same day the FirstEnergy executives visited with Randazzo and finalized details of that payment. FirstEnergy pushes forward on its request for roughly $1.4 billion in added rider charges Defense attorney Noah Munyer requests an arm GPS monitor for his client former FirstEnergy CEO Charles "Chuck" Jones during an arraignment hearing in Summit County Court with Judge Susan Baker Ross on charges related to the FirstEnergy scandal on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Akron, Ohio. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] Corporate spokesperson Jennifer Young said FirstEnergy cant comment on the indictment against its former executives, but added that the company has taken significant steps to move forward, including reconstituting our senior leadership team and instilling a culture of ethics, integrity and accountability at every level. FirstEnergy continues to push forward on its request for roughly $1.4 billion in added rider charges. The case now rests with the PUCO after the company and other parties filed reply briefs on Feb. 9. The case stands out because it would extend one of the riders involved in the PUCOs frozen HB 6-related cases, where a prior audit found millions of dollars of the reviewed charges were improper. The Ohio Manufacturers Association Energy Group has challenged the hearing examiners ruling to keep evidence about HB 6 out of the current case. Multiple challengers have argued the companys request for riders should be denied altogether or otherwise considered in the companys full rate case later this year. The PUCO staff urged the commission to modify some riders and shorten the length of the companys plan. The Ohio Environmental Council, Citizens Utility Board of Ohio and Environmental Law & Policy Center did support a proposed rider for energy efficiency programs. Utility-run energy efficiency programs can cut greenhouse gas emissions when designed well. However, the PUCO has generally not allowed ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs since 2020, after HB 6 took effect. HB 6 gutted Ohios prior energy efficiency standard, which had been paused and weakened by a 2014 law. FirstEnergy began pushing to suspend the standard back in 2012. In a separate proceeding, the Office of the Ohio Consumers Counsel asked the PUCO to freeze FirstEnergys case to collect more grid modernization money. The federal and state criminal cases against Randazzo include allegations that relate to a side deal in another case that gave rise to the grid modernization case. And Randazzo played a role in letting the case move ahead while he was at the PUCO. FirstEnergy shareholder litigation continues Former Public Utilities Chairman Sam Randazzo, left, and former FirstEnergy CEO Charles "Chuck" Jones in Summit County Court during an arraignment heating with Judge Susan Baker Ross on charges related to the FirstEnergy scandal on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Akron, Ohio. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] Pre-trial fact-finding remains temporarily on hold in shareholder class actions against FirstEnergy and others, as the trial court considers whether to hold such discovery in limbo while an appeals court reviews class certification issues. Lawyers for both sides presented arguments to Special Master Shawn Judge on Jan. 4. Since then, FirstEnergy has opposed a motion by plaintiffs for the court to clarify its class certification order. Class certification matters because it lets a large group of similarly situated shareholders move ahead with claims that otherwise might not merit the costs of litigation. Other filings continue FirstEnergys objections to turning over its internal investigation on HB 6, as ordered by the special master last fall. Its unclear how soon the court will rule on the stay and other issues. On Feb. 13, however, the court did overrule Energy Harbors privilege objections to providing materials the special master said it should provide to plaintiffs in response to a subpoena. FirstEnergy continuing with coal after abandoning pledge to cut greenhouse emissions FirstEnergy has abandoned its 2020 pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions 30% by 2030. FirstEnergys about-face comes as many companies operating in Ohio have stepped up work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. FirstEnergys Feb. 8 securities filing announced the change just over three years after the company made its commitment for cuts by 2030. At the time FirstEnergy had just ousted Jones, Dowling, and some other executives in the wake of the federal governments arrests of Householder, Borges and others. FirstEnergys updated website statement says the about-face is necessary so it can keep two aging coal plants in West Virginia running longer, consistent with that states coal-dependent energy policy. The company also cites resource adequacy in the PJM transmission region and changing market conditions. It claims it still plans to be carbon neutral by 2050. FirstEnergy doubled down on coal power a dozen years ago, even as the boom for fracked oil and gas was underway. Bailout efforts in Ohio led to nearly half a billion dollars in ratepayer charges. The Supreme Court of Ohio ultimately held those charges unlawful, but they were not refunded. FirstEnergy similarly spent years lobbying to make West Virginia ratepayers cover costs for coal power there. Matt Borges and Larry Householder appeals Appealing his conviction in the federal governments HB 6 criminal case, lobbyist Matt Borges filed his appellate brief on Jan. 9. Among other things, Borges took issue with the trial courts jury instructions and rulings on evidence. He also argued the evidence does not support the governments sole charge under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Appellate courts generally defer to trial courts on weighing evidence, and here jurors found Borges guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Yet some recent federal cases have tried to scale back what counts for a pattern of criminal activity under the RICO statute. Whether Borges case fits into any exceptions is unclear. The governments response in the Borges appeal is due March 8. Former Ohio House speaker Larry Householders appeal is a separate case. His brief is due Feb. 26. Borges has so far served seven-and-a-half months of his five-year sentence at a federal prison in southeastern Michigan. Householder is serving a 20-year sentence and is at a federal prison in Lisbon, Ohio. This story comes from the Ohio Capital-Journal, ohiocapitaljournal.com. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: FirstEnergy moves on as ex-execs Chuck Jones, Michael Dowling indicted Voters cast their ballots at the Masonic Center polling site Tuesday in Fond du Lac. FOND DU LAC Fond du Lac's next election is the April 2 general election, with several hopefuls running to represent their communities. Four seats are open on Fond du Lac City Council, as well as two seats on the Fond du Lac School District Board and all seats on the Fond du Lac County Board. Additionally, a few other school boards in the area and village boards will have contested races, and two state referendum questions and one town of Waupun referendum question will appear on the ballot. Here's who and what will be on the ballots in Fond du Lac County April 2. Fond du Lac City Council Four of the seven city council seats are up for re-election this year. Jane Ricchio, Thomas Schuessler and Brett Zimmerman, all originally elected in 2022, will run to keep their seats. Kenneth Cassady, also elected in 2022, filed non-candidacy and will not appear on April's ballot. Two other candidates running for council are Antonio Godfrey and Angela Luehring. Sturgeon spearing latest: Ice conditions for sturgeon spearing still vary widely by day and location. Here's where it stands for week two. Fond du Lac County Board Districts 3 and 19 on Fond du Lac County Board will be contested, with Jim Will challenging incumbent Karen Madigan for the District 3 seat and incumbent John Zorn facing Tom Herlache for District 19. The rest of the districts have incumbents running unopposed. Fond du Lac School District Board Two seats are open on school board this year, with two candidates running: incumbent Mark Henschel and newcomer Joe Lavrenz. Other Fond du Lac County contested races Two will vie for the village of Brandon trustee two-year term seat, with voters to decide between Jack Meyer and Richard L. Vollbrecht. Three seats are open for village of St. Cloud trustee, and the possible candidates include Ryan Birschbach, David B. Schry, Melissa Bink, Adam J. Puetz and Matt Householder. The Ripon Area School District Board has five candidates for four seats: Lori Machmueller, Shannon Lampe, Kelly Nielsen, Denise K. Martinez and Katie Grady. Rosendale-Brandon School District Board has two people running for the seat representing the Brandon area: Jack Meyer and Mandy Lemmenes. Both Waupun Area School District Board races are contested, with Karen Gibbs and Stephen Chene vying for the School Board Member Representing At-Large seat, and Rebecca L. Droessler Mersch and Jodi Schultz looking to win the School Board Member Representing City of Fox Lake and Towns of Fox Lake and Westford seat. The School District of Lomira Board Zone 3 seat, representing the school district area that falls in the towns of Leroy and Lomira in Dodge County and the town of Ashford in Fond du Lac County, is also contested, with Robert Wondra, Kristen Mielke and Brenda Michels on the ballot for two open seats. Two seats are also open on the School District of New Holstein Board, with Rose M. Petrie, Jodie Goebel and Craig Sesing on the ballot. Humane Society's new executive director: Fond du Lac Humane Society names new executive director Referendums Two Wisconsin referendum questions will be on the ballots this spring. The first involves use of private funds in election administration and asks, "Shall section 7 (1) of article III of the constitution be created to provide that private donations and grants may not be applied for, accepted, expended or used in connection with the conduct of any primary, election or referendum?" The other involves election officials and asks, "Shall section 7 (2) of article III of the constitution be created to provide that only election officials designated by law may perform tasks in the conduct of primaries, elections, and referendums?" Additionally, town of Waupun voters will see a referendum question on their ballots: "Shall the person holding the office of Treasurer in the Town of Waupun be appointed by the town board?" Contact Daphne Lemke at dlemke@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Fond du Lac Reporter: Fond du Lac, here's the ballot for the April 2, 2024, general election Foodwatch has accused Nestle Waters and Sources Alma of fraudulently treating water they say is 'mineral water' (JOEL SAGET) Consumer watchdog Foodwatch said it was filing a legal complaint Wednesday against food giant Nestle and another group over them allegedly fraudulently treating water for their top mineral water brands. A government probe reported by media last month said about 30 percent of mineral water sold in France had undergone purification treatment only meant to be used on tap water. Foodwatch said it was lodging its complaint with a Paris court against Nestle Waters, behind brands such as Perrier and Vittel, and the Sources Alma group, which also owns several water labels. "This is a massive fraud for which Nestle Waters, the Sources Alma group and the French government must answer," the European watchdog said. "Nobody, not even a multinational like Nestle, is above the law," Foodwatch spokeswoman Ingrid Kragl said. The NGO claimed Nestle Waters and Sources Alma had "illegally processed their bottled waters and then sold them without informing consumers". French law, based on a European Union directive, forbids such purification of mineral water, which is supposed to be of naturally high quality before bottling. French prosecutors last month said they had opened an investigation into suspected fraud by Nestle Waters after a complaint by France's ARS health regulator. They spoke after Le Monde and Radio France reported that a government investigation had concluded in 2022 that "almost 30 percent of commercial brands undergo non-compliant treatments". Nestle Waters said it put some top brands, such as Perrier and Vittel, through ultraviolet light and active carbon filters "to guarantee food safety", and had informed French authorities about this in 2021. A government source told AFP that authorities had found "no health risk" linked to the bottled water. Foodwatch said it had also written to the European Commission, denouncing "the complacency of France, which... should have alerted European authorities and the other member states importing these waters". max/spb/ah/rl Earlier this month, a Los Angeles police officer shot and killed a man who was holding a plastic fork, according to newly released body-camera footage. The victim of the police shooting has been identified as 36-year-old Jason Maccani. At 2:20 p.m. on Feb. 3, police received a call that a man, armed with a stick, like a pole, had wandered into a studio near downtown Los Angeles and was acting very aggressive. The caller, whose claim that Maccani was armed with a pole turned out to be false, suspected that the man was on drugs, according to NBC Los Angeles. When authorities arrived, the caller directed the police to Maccanis location, and informed the officers that he had access to sharp objects. Seven police officers followed the man down a hallway where they cornered him, according to security video released by the Los Angeles Police Department. One officer ordered Maccani to put his hands up and walk backwards toward them. While Macanni initially complied with the order, when the officer told him to stop walking, he turned around and continued toward them. An officer shot a foam round at Maccani, believing that he was holding a screwdriver. Another officer believed that Maccani was holding a knife, according to the video released by the LAPD. Another officer fired two bean bag shotgun rounds, but Maccani did not stop advancing. Maccani began screaming, and grabbed the barrel of the shotgun that had fired the bean bags. He was shot by one of the officers, before being tackled to the ground. As he was on the ground one of the officers asked if anyone had shot lethal, and another responded I did, adding that he had shot Maccani in the arm. The officer who shot Maccani was identified as recently hired Caleb Garcia Alamilla. The police officers began CPR as they waited for paramedics to arrive. Maccani was then taken to the hospital where he later died. The white plastic fork he was holding, which police allegedly mistook for some kind of weapon, was taken into evidence. I remain concerned about the officers decision to use deadly force, Chief Michel Moore said last week, according to NBC Los Angeles. The incident is being investigated by the California Department of Justice. 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. FILE - This Jan. 5, 2015, file photo shows a Ford logo shines on the front grille of a 2014 Ford F-150, on display at a local dealership in Hialeah, Fla. Ford Motor Co. and the United Auto Workers union have reached a tentative agreement on a local contract at the companys most profitable factory, averting the threat of a strike. The union said last week said that nearly 9,000 workers at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville would walk picket lines starting Friday if the contract dispute was not resolved. But the UAW said in a statement Wednesday that a deal had been reached, ending the strike threat. Workers still have to vote on the contract. (AP Photo/Alan Diaz, File) DETROIT (AP) Ford Motor Co. and the United Auto Workers union have reached a tentative agreement on a local contract at the company's largest and most profitable factory, averting the threat of a strike. The union said last week said that nearly 9,000 workers at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville would walk picket lines starting Friday if the contract dispute was not resolved. But the UAW said in a statement Wednesday that a deal had been reached, ending the strike threat. The tentative agreement addresses health and safety issues, ergonomics, the company's efforts to reduce the number of skilled trades workers and other issues, the union said. The plant, one of two Ford factories in Louisville, makes heavy-duty F-Series pickup trucks and the Ford Excursion and Lincoln Navigator large SUVs, all hugely profitable vehicles for the company. A strike at the sprawling plant would have been the second in the past year. In October, UAW workers shut down the plant during national contract negotiations that ended with large raises for employees. Workers have been without a local contract for five months, the UAW said. It says there are 19 other local agreements being negotiated with Ford, and several more at rivals General Motors and Stellantis. The strike threat last week came after Ford CEO Jim Farley told an analysts conference in New York that last falls contentious UAW strike changed Fords relationship with the union to the point where the automaker will think carefully about where it builds future vehicles. As if we needed more evidence that the Idaho Legislature is being run by extremists, we now find out, thanks to an article by InvestigateWest reporter Daniel Walters, that Eric Parker has been the one behind a bill that would gut Idahos domestic terrorism law. Parker told InvestigateWest that hes the key architect of the bill. You may remember Parker as the man who was photographed pointing a semiautomatic rifle at federal agents in a Nevada showdown in 2014 over Cliven Bundys refusal to pay grazing fees on federal land. In the dispute with Bundy, federal agents stood down and retreated, failing to enforce the laws of the United States because of threats of violence from people like Parker, the Bundys and their followers. One could reasonably call that domestic terrorism. The USA PATRIOT Act defines domestic terrorism as a criminal act that is dangerous to human life and appears to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence government policy by intimidation or coercion or affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination or kidnapping. Sound familiar? Parker tried to defend the bill by telling InvestigateWest that it would protect left-wing protesters as well. Parker clearly misses the point and thinks that designating someone a domestic terrorist is somehow based in ideology. Its not. If a left-wing protester were aiming an AR-15 at a federal agent in an effort to get that federal agent to back down and not enforce the law, that would be domestic terrorism, not a mere protest, no matter how you slice it. Domestic terrorism laws arent about going after the far right. But this is a universe in which many people believe that the Jan. 6 rioters were just on a normal tourist visit, that the people who have been arrested, tried and convicted are political hostages and that Donald Trump is being prosecuted to keep him out of the White House. Senate Bill 1220 was introduced by Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon, R-Burley, and approved by the Senate nearly along party lines. Even though Parker tries to distance himself from fascists and white nationalists are flocking to North Idaho, this bill would provide them safe haven. As we have written before, if passed, the bill would send a clear message to extremists and domestic terrorists: Welcome to Idaho. Parker told InvestigateWest that he really wants to get rid of the domestic terrorism law altogether, but since that might be too much to ask, he at least wanted something that would effectively nullify the law, making it moot and meaningless. At the very least, Idaho Republican legislators are being disingenuous about the bill. Supporters cited parents being targeted by the federal government as domestic terrorists, as if we were talking about a mom complaining about a snow day, when in reality, were talking about the mom who showed up at a school board meeting in Virginia and said, I will bring every gun loaded and ready if the school board didnt drop its COVID-19 mask mandate. Thats just engaging in the political process? Hardly. The Idaho bill would define terrorism as applying only to those affiliated with a foreign entity. When U.S. senators and representatives, members of the military, the vice president and members of the Cabinet take the oath of office, they say, I do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. It doesnt say, and domestic only when theyre affiliated with a foreign entity. As was pointed out during a hearing on the bill, passing it would leave folks like Unabomber Ted Kaczynski, Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh and Idahos own Aryan Nations off the list of domestic terrorists. In fact, it was in response to the Aryan Nations that the original Idaho law was introduced and passed. The bill also would exempt one of the most prolific terrorist organizations ever to attack U.S. citizens in order to achieve political aims: the Ku Klux Klan. Its bad enough that Idaho is a magnet for far-right extremists; now we find out theyre writing the laws, too. Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members Mary Rohlfing and Patricia Nilsson. Former President Donald Trump during a Tuesday night Fox News town hall compared the multi-million dollar ruling in his New York civil fraud trial to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. It is a form of Navalny. It is a form of communism or fascism, Trump said. It is a form of Navalny. Donald Trump, at a Fox News town hall Tuesday night, talking about his $400M+ fine in his New York civil fraud trial pic.twitter.com/y6VD78hBrw The Recount (@therecount) February 21, 2024 Judge Arthur Engoron, whom Trump called a "nut job," last week imposed a $355 million ruling and a three-year ban on Trump from serving as an executive at any New York company, including his own. People thought that could happen and it did happen, Trump said, speaking about Navalnys death. And its a horrible thing. As noted by Politico, earlier in the town hall, Trump called the anti-Kremlin activist a very brave guy," claiming that he probably would have been a lot better off staying away" from Russia and "talking from outside. The ex-president's Tuesday night remarks came on the heels of a Truth Social post he shared on Monday, in which he conflated Navalny's sudden passing which many have speculated was carried out by Russian President Vladimir Putin to his own legal and political woes. The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country, the former president wrote. It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction. Open Borders, Rigged Elections, and Grossly Unfair Courtroom Decisions are DESTROYING AMERICA. WE ARE A NATION IN DECLINE, A FAILING NATION. MAGA2024." The former president reiterated that message as part of his town hall appearance, alleging that the emotion surrounding Navalny's death is "happening here" and that his legal plights are all because of the fact that Im in politics. Following the airing of Trump's town hall, former South Carolina governor and Republican primary candidate Nikki Haley wrote on X/Twitter: "Donald Trump compares America to Russia again. Thats not America First. Thats the kind of garbage you hear from liberals." In a separate Fox interview on Tuesday, Haley referred to Navalny as a hero who challenged Putin, lost his life because of it, per Politico. She added, This is on the heels of Trump saying that he would encourage Putin to invade any NATO countries that didnt pull their weight. Hes gonna compare himself to Navalny, and the victim that he is in his court cases? PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A former Battle Ground bank manager has been sentenced to 42 months in prison for stealing over $1 million from elderly customers. Forty-four-year-old Brian Davie worked for the Battle Ground Wells Fargo from March 2014, up until he was fired from his position as branch manager in June 2019. Public policy organization criticizes Oregons senior property tax freeze proposals According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for Western District of Washington, the man used his role as manager to conduct fraudulent transactions using customers bank account balances and information. Officials reported that Davie concealed his crimes by repeatedly exchanging cashiers checks until they were small enough to cash without triggering banking reporting requirements. The Attorneys Office said he embezzled a total of $1,279,840 from customers, with one woman losing more than $566,000 from her retirement accounts. Authorities also reported that Davie targeted senior citizens who were less likely to monitor their account balances. Some fraud victims suffered from dementia, werent fluent in English or didnt understand bank transactions, according to officials. PBOT to pilot Rest on Red program In one instance, the former manager didnt file the paperwork to add a victims relative as a co-signer on their account. Because of this, the Attorneys Office said the relative was unable to monitor the account on the victims behalf. Davie withdrew some of the stolen funds as cash, deposited some of the money into an account he created using the name of a family members business, and wrote cashiers checks to the business with remaining funds. He had been previously charged with bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Officials reported that Wells Fargo partially reimbursed the fraud victims, but a Western District of Washington judge will decide how much restitution Davie owes on March 18. The cost keeps growing: Decades of deferred maintenance leaves Portland CityFleet garage in decay Bank fraud and aggravated identity theft cause devastating effects on their victims, Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Dillon wrote. It can often take years or even decades to undo the impact of identity theft and to untangle the impact it had on your finances and your credit score. Let alone the untold psychological damage it causes when you are unable to trust the government institutions that are designed to protect you. As a bank manager, Defendant knew better. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Former CNN anchor John Avlon announced a bid Wednesday for New Yorks 1st congressional District, claiming democracy is in danger. In a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Avlon said he was running to help preserve democracy and build a broad coalition against former President Trump, the current GOP presidential front-runner. I believe the United States is the greatest democracy the world has ever known. But right now, our democracy is in danger, the former news anchor said in the video. This election is not a drill. Its up to all of us to step up and get off the sidelines. And thats why Im running for Congress, in New Yorks 1st District. Theres just too much at stake for the country and the community that I love. We need to build the broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump, defend our democracy and win back the House from his MAGA minions who dont even seem interested in solving problems anymore, he added. Avlon also vowed to focus on rebuilding the middle class, investing in infrastructure, protecting womens reproductive rights and combatting climate change. His announcement comes just two weeks after departing CNN, which he joined in 2010 and where he became a full-time employee in 2018. He is also the former editor in chief of The Daily Beast and a founding leader of the No Labels movement. At the time of his departure from CNN, Avlon wrote in a piece, Democracies depend on citizens engaging in political debates in good faith. They depend on elevating facts over fiction. They depend on citizens getting in the arena, rather than retreating from it, especially during hard times. Avlon joins an already-crowded field of Democrats looking to unseat first-term Rep. Nick LaLota (R), who was elected as part of a wave of New York Republicans who proved instrumental in flipping the House to GOP control in the 2022 midterms. The Empire States 1st District has a Cook Partisan Voting Index of R+6. In a statement to The Hill, a spokesperson for LaLotas campaign slammed Avlon as a a Manhattan elitist without any attachments to Long Island other than his summer home in the Hamptons. Avlon knows nothing about Suffolk County other than Sag Harbor croquet matches and summer cocktail parties in Bridgehampton, Will Kiley, the congressmans campaign spokesperson, said in the statement. Kiley continued, saying it would take burning millions of his friends money for Avlon to learn the district has a history of rejecting elitists both from out-of-state and Manhattan, across the aisle, who attempt to buy a seat in Congress. To the contrary, Congressman LaLota has dedicated much of his adult life to serving the United States and Suffolk County and has been the common sense conservative voice Long Island needs at this crucial time in our great nations history, Kiley added. The Hill has reached out to Avlons campaign for comment. Avlon will be running in a crowded Democratic primary that includes former state Sen. James Gaughran; former New York City administrative law judge Craig Herskowitz, who also worked for former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomos administration; and Kyle Hill, a health care policy expert and former senior legislative aide. Organic chemist Nancy Goroff is also running in the primary after losing to former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.) by 11 points in 2020. In a statement, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) said Avlons entry into the race adds even more leftist fuel to an already crowded dumpster fire of a Democrat primary. We look forward to litigating this smug, liberal hacks past so voters can see just how Left he and the rest of the modern Democrat party have become, NRCC spokesperson Savannah Viar added. CNN commentator David Axelrod, who served as White House senior adviser under President Obama, praised Avlon for his decision to run for the seat. My old colleague @JohnAvlon would be a great and impactful member of Congress. Hes thoughtful, incisive and passionate about our country and its future, Axelrod wrote on X in response to the campaign announcement. Updated at 3:53 p.m. ET For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) A former fire medic who served in Houston and Geneva County was sentenced this week after a jury found him guilty of rape and sodomy in late 2023. Houston County Judge John Steensland sentenced Steven Hallford to 21 years in the Alabama Department of Corrections. After a three-day trial in early December 2023, Hallford was found guilty of two counts of Rape in the first degree and four counts of Sodomy in the first degree. He was arrested in October 2019 after police said he had sexually assaulted a woman confined to a wheelchair several times over the years. Prosecutors said Hallford forced the victim to perform oral sex on him and other sexual acts, but Hallfords defense claimed the sexual encounters were consensual and said when Hallford showed up at her home, she never pressed a home alert button that she had at her disposal. Hallford was a fire medic with the Dothan Fire Department when the alleged crimes occurred but worked in Slocomb in a similar position when he was arrested. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. The former location of Hedges On Broad bar in downtown Athens, Ga., on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. Former owner David Ippisch on Feb. 20, 2024, was acquitted of a rape that allegedly had taken place of the bar. The former owner of two popular bars in downtown Athens was acquitted in a jury trial Tuesday of raping a young woman more than four year ago inside one of the bars. The jury of seven men and five women returned their verdict in about an hour during a Clarke County Superior Court trial presided over by Judge Eric Norris. David Ippisch, the former owner of Hedges on Broad, where the assault was alleged, and 100 Proof, was tried for the offenses of rape and kidnapping, which was reported on Nov. 24, 2019, by a 21-year-old woman. We kind of expected it, said defense lawyer Bernard Brody, a sex crimes expertise attorney from Atlanta. I thought the case was convincing for us and pretty obvious this was a false allegation from the beginning. Ippisch, who was originally from Fannin County, did not testify in the trial, but quietly observed proceedings as he sat beside his attorneys, Brody, Ed Tolley and Spencer Tolley of Athens. The trial began with jury selection on Feb. 12 with testimony occurring over six days. The rape was alleged to have occurred on the concert stage at Hedges while a DJ played music and hundreds of people gathered below for dancing and drinking. The assault, according to the woman, occurred behind a curtain on stage where she alleged Ippisch plied her with "shots" of alcohol. More: Athens bar owner pleads not guilty to rape charge Ippisch never denied they had sex, but he told Athens-Clarke police officers that it was consensual. Brody said Ippisch had to close both bars after his arrest. His businesses went under soon after the allegations were made. He sat in jail for six months and now its been four plus years waiting for this day, he said. With all the attention it got, there was no way for Hedges to come back. The woman has also retained lawyers who sent various parties notifications of an intent to sue the bar owner and owners of the buildings. Brody said that kind of lawsuit is not normally filed until after the criminal case is resolved. Jim Power, a former prosecutor for the Western Circuit District Attorney, was retained to prosecute the charges due to his familiarity with the case. During his final argument, Power characterized the crime as a 38-year-old businessman taking advantage of an intoxicated 21-year-old woman. The evidence, he said, shows the defendant giving the woman shots of alcohol to the point she could not consent to sex. Power told the jury that if they believe she did not consent to the sex then they could find Ippisch guilty. Numerous times during his closing, Power expounded on eight drinks in 45 minutes. The trial was an example of how social media postings are frequently used today as evidence as it documents not only what is said, but when it is said. During the evening of the alleged assault, police were able to download such information showing how the victim and her friend had planned to contact Ippisch and use him to get on stage where they could stunt a photo, meaning they could share a photo showing them having fun on stage near the DJ. Brody was able to show the jury that the womans friend, who admitted she was intoxicated that evening, had actually deleted 16 of her texts regarding this plot after learning that police were going to examine her phone. Police were also able to determine that the woman making the complaint was also untruthful in terms of how many drinks she had that evening. The defense also introduced a witness, who testified he once had a relationship with the woman that included sex when they were teenagers. The woman later alleged the former boyfriend had raped her, but the man told the court, Thats false. The prosecution also presented the testimony of a former girlfriend of Ippisch, who testified she also had nonconsensual sex with him, but that later they engaged in consensual sex. During pre-trial hearings, the testimony of two other women who would allege the same behavior was not allowed by the judge. This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Downtown Athens bar owner acquitted of rape charge in jury trial Former Republican presidential candidate Asa Hutchinson on Wednesday criticized former President Trumps offensive comparison of his legal troubles to Alexei Navalnys lifelong campaign for a free and democratic Russia. Well, its offensive to me. And there should be common decency, first of all. A respect for Alexei Navalny, that gave his life for freedom and fighting against a dictator. There should be respect for that, Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, said in an interview with CNNs John Berman. And there should also be a clear understanding that Putin is responsible and that Putin is bad for Russia. Hes bad for anybody that loves freedom, and the United States should be having a clear voice on the issue, he continued. Hutchinson, who was critical of the former president during and leading up to his bid for the 2024 GOP nomination, was asked to respond to remarks Trump made during a Fox News town hall Tuesday evening. Asked by Laura Ingraham how he plans to pay for his exorbitant legal fees and fines, Trump responded by characterizing the penalties as a form of Navalny and by suggesting he faces similar persecution in the U.S. to what Navalny did in Russia. Navalny was a very sad situation, and hes a very brave, he was a very brave guy, Trump said, adding, Its a horrible thing. But its happening in our country, too. We are turning into a communist country in many ways. And if you look at it, Im the leading candidate, I get indicted I never heard of being indicted before. While President Biden and other world leaders immediately condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalnys suspicious death in prison, Trump responded with days of silence before releasing a statement that compared his situation to Navalnys without mentioning Putin at all. The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country, he wrote on Truth Social on Monday. Hutchinson warned that Trumps rhetoric should be a warning sign about what the next four years would be like if he returns to the White House. Donald Trump is offensive in his language. He cant accept the fact that Navalny gave his life for freedom. He tries to compare himself to that, which is a false comparison, and its offensive, and people need to wake up and realize this is what our foreign policy is going to be like, if he gets four years, Hutchinson said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The state has released a former Montgomery Police Department officer who in 2016 shot and killed resident Greg Gunn from prison. Attorney General Steve Marshall reached a plea deal with Aaron Cody Smith, who was convicted of manslaughter in the case. Smith changed his plea to guilty and will leave prison on time served, according to Marshall's statement. William Boyd, a community activist and friend of the Gunn family, said that justice has not been served. "The state, they undid justice today," Boyd said. "... It's another sad day that Black lives don't matter." White jurors in a white county found Smith guilty, but Boyd said that when Marshall took the case out of the hands of District Attorney Daryl Bailey he knew that it was a political ploy. Montgomery police officer A.C. Smith is escorted from the courtroom after a jury convicted him of manslaughter in the death 2016 shooting death of Greg Gunn. More: Previous Coverage 'Justice has prevailed': AL Court of Criminal Appeals upholds A.C. Smith's conviction, 14-year sentence I am happy that this convicted killer finally confessed to intentionally killing Greg Gunn," Bailey said in a statement. "If he had done that in 2016 it would have saved a lot of time and money. I am very disappointed that he is being released early, which is a privilege not afforded to most convicted killers." Marshall first took the case in 2020, according to his statement. "Despite my personal misgivings about the strength of the case against Mr. Smith, my office successfully defended the conviction in accordance with our statutory duty," Marshall said in his statement. The case then went on to the Alabama Supreme Court and back again to the trial court last year. "I firmly believe that Mr. Smith was due a new trial, but after eight years of watching this protracted litigation, I exerted my authority to bring this case to a close," Marshall said in the statement. "Mr. Smith has pleaded guilty to the offense for which he was convicted, in exchange for returning to his family. I believe that this is a fair and appropriate outcome." Greg Gunn's family said he was the "glue" and caretaker in their large family, often acting as the father figure to his siblings well into their own adulthoods. Alex Gladden is the Montgomery Advertiser's public safety reporter. She can be reached at agladden@gannett.com or on Twitter @gladlyalex. This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Ex-police officer convicted of killing Greg Gunn walks free TOLONO, Ill. (WCIA) A government official for a Champaign County village is now facing criminal charges for his actions while at work. The Attorney Generals office confirmed with WCIA Tuesday they have charged Randall Grace, the former director of the Tolono Park District, with four counts of theft of governmental property, four counts of official misconduct and one count of forgery. Randall Grace started his work as the park district director in 2014. Charging documents allege Grace misused tens of thousands of dollars from January 2015 to November 2021. Tolono announces phase one of downtown revamp In 2021, Tolono residents like Robert Kolakowski started to notice all three parks in town needed repairs, including broken lights. Its like someone walked away and hadnt touched it in years, Kolakowski said. He attended a board meeting to ask why they hadnt fixed up West Side Park. The initial response from the Park District Board to Kolakowskis query was were too broke. Unsatisfied, he started attending more meetings, asking questions, and FOIAing financial records. What he found was several credit card charges from southern Illinois. Tolono Park District Credit Card StatementsDownload He also got yearly transaction details. Tolono-Park-District-19-20-Supplies-ExpenseDownload One purchase that stood out to Kolakowski was a $8,800 lawnmower. He found it fishy as the district already contracted a lawn service. Tolono Deputy Chief John Brown confirmed he opened an investigation into Graces spending in Nov. 2021, before the Attorney General took it over. After pressure from residents, Grace resigned in Dec. 2021. The city of Tolono and Tolono Park District are independent of each other. The Park District Board now has new members, compared to when residents spoke up in 2021. Graces first day in court will be March 7. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison for the theft charges, and up to five years for official misconduct and forgery. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (WKRG) A Fort Walton Beach man is in jail Tuesday night after he allegedly threatened to shoot people at Thai Spice before leading police on a vehicle chase, according to the Fort Walton Beach Police Department. The police department received a call around noon Tuesday at Thai Spice on US Highway 98. Mobile City Council members give funds to nonprofit targeting gun violence INCIDENT LOCATION: This embedded content is not available in your region. When a police officer arrived, the man fled in a vehicle, which started a chase. Fort Walton Beach Police said the man rammed a sheriffs officer vehicle on Beal Parkway before crashing near Kohls and Hardees. The officer who was hit is OK, an Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office spokesperson confirmed. Train hits 18-wheeler filled with bananas in Gulfport (Photo courtesy of Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office) (Photo courtesy of Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office) Charles Emerson, 38, of Fort Walton Beach, was arrested. (Photo courtesy of the Okaloosa County Department of Corrections) Emerson was then taken into custody by law enforcement, and he was taken to the hospital as a precaution, but there were no significant injuries reported. A Fort Walton Beach Police Department spokesperson thanked the Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office for assisting in the vehicle chase. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo mourns beloved resident Jett, a Timberwolf Okaloosa County is charging Emerson with aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, and fleeing and eluding. Fort Walton Beach is still working on what exactly Emerson will be charged with, but they did confirm with News 5 that the charges will be felonies. The police department is investigating what happened. News 5 will provide updates as more information becomes available. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5. A woman found dead in a flooded basement in 1992 on the east side of Fort Wayne was recently identified through forensic genetic genealogy and her father's DNA, according to authorities. According to a news release from the Allen County Coroners office, the woman, identified as Tabetha Ann Murlin, of Fort Wayne, just recently got her name back after being considered a Mary Jane Doe for more than 30 years. Tabetha Ann Murlin, an Indiana found dead in 1992, was known as a Mary Jane Doe for over 30 years. She was recently identified through forensic genetic genealogy and DNA testing. Indiana crime: The 2018 killing of man in Indy turned cold. Five years later, an arrest has been made Who is Tabetha Ann Murlin? Murlin, a woman from Indiana, was found dead in 1992, and went unidentified until February of 2024. With forensic genetic genealogy and DNA testing, authorities identified the woman as Tabetha Ann Murlin, whose maiden name was Tabetha Ann Slain. In January, searches revealed Mary Jane Does father as Robert Bowers and her mother as Darlene Beasley, who died in 2013. Two aunts were also identified: Angelina Privitt (Cooper) and Norma Slain, who adopted Tabetha. Privitt (Cooper) also provided a marriage license between Tabetha and Jerry Murlin, who married on Aug. 8, 1987. On Jan. 22, Chris Meihls, chief deputy coroner with the Allen County Coroners office, met with Bowers, who volunteered a DNA sample through a cheek swab. Bowers said he last saw Tabetha in 1988, as she was leaving for Tennessee with her boyfriend, Travis. On. Feb. 2, authorities met with the husband, Jerry, who last saw Tabetha in 1989. After leaving her, Jerry lived with his parents in New Haven. Tabetha visited the property in November of 1989 and she was removed by Jerrys father, records show. Jerry said a divorce was never filed, and he never reported her missing, according to authorities. When did Tabetha Ann Murlin die? According to a timeline provided by the Allen County coroner's office, Tabethas estimated date of death was late 1991 or early 1992. A construction worker found her body, badly decomposed, floating in eight to 12 inches of water in a basement on May 15, 1992. The house was at 3512 Reynold St. on the east side of Fort Wayne. How did Tabetha Ann Murlin die? As of Feb. 21, authorities had not released additional information about Murlin's cause and manner of death. How long was Tabetha Ann Murlin classified as a Mary Jane Doe? For nearly 32 years, Tabetha was considered a Mary Jane Doe. After she was found, she was buried in Lindenwood Cemetery on May 21, 1992. The medical and dental examinations to determine her identity and cause of death were inconclusive, and she was entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as an unidentified decedent on June 29, 1992. She wasnt identified as Tabetha until Feb. 12, 2024. Others are reading: Indianapolis killings in February 2024 How was Tabetha Ann Murlin identified? In 2016, a case for Tabetha was created in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NAMUS), according to the coroner's office timeline. Her body was exhumed in March 2017, and forensic professionals completed an autopsy, dental examination and other tests. A femur bone was then sent to the University of North Texas (UNT) Center for Human Identification for DNA testing, where DNA was recovered. In October of 2017, the DNA was entered into the Combined DNA Index System, CODIS, and the National DNA Index System. Throughout 2019, facial reconstruction began and was eventually released to the media. However, the case was at a standstill until 2023, when Lisa Needler, co-founder of IGGnite DNA, contacted Meihls, offering their services for genealogy testing of the DNA retrieved by Indiana State Police. By January 2024, Intermountain Forensics had completed the bioinformatics and sequencing, helping to identify Tabethas father, Bowers. On Feb. 12, Indiana State Police revealed a strong likelihood that Bowers is Tabethas father. Statistically, one in one million is a strong likelihood, and results showed Bowers as a one in 7.5 million match. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Who was Tabetha Ann Murlin? Mary Jane Doe identified after 30 years Fox News co-host Jessica Tarlov mocked House Republicans on Wednesday for their pursuit of impeachment charges against President Biden. This is the path that theyve chosen to take, and honestly Im surprised that they have this high of a threshold for humiliation, Tarlov said during an appearance on the network. Every witness they have called has decimated their argument. Tarlovs comments come a week after an indictment of the FBI informant at the center of the GOPs allegations against Biden. The Department of Justice (DOJ) alleged that the informant, Alexander Smirnov, made up information involving the Bidens, including his claim that the then-vice president and his son, Hunter Biden, each accepted a $5 million bribe. The DOJ alleged Smirnovs claims regarding Hunter Biden came from Russian intelligence personnel. Members of the House GOP have made Hunter Bidens business dealings central to their impeachment push, which the White House has dismissed as partisan and lacking merit. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) on Wednesday told reporters on Capitol Hill that the Smirnov indictment doesnt change the fundamental facts of his caucuss case against the president. Its so embarrassing, Tarlov, who serves as a liberal panelist on the popular table talk program The Five, said. I think [Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.)] was spot on when he said this impeachment really ended yesterday, when we found out that we have a Russian asset that is foundational to this impeachment inquiry. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sat down for an interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier this week from the front lines of his countrys ongoing war with Russia. Baiers interview, which will air Thursday and Friday on Foxs nightly newscast Special Report, will signify the first time the Ukrainian leader has been interviewed on the front lines of combat since the war started in 2022. Taking place less than a mile and a half from Russian positions, Baier will speak with the president about the two-year anniversary of the war, the debate in Congress on additional funding to Ukraine and the latest developments in the ongoing conflict, the network said announcing the interview. He will also travel with the president as he receives a military briefing, presents medals to some of his troops and visits wounded soldiers in the hospital, Fox added. Baiers sit-down with Zelensky comes just days after Tucker Carlson, the networks former top-rated host, published an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin during which Putin pushed propaganda about the war and criticized the United Statess involvement in the conflict. Carlson has earned widespread rebuke from media and political observers for his capitulation to Putin and his praise of Russias infrastructure and economy. Last fall, Lachlan Murdoch, the chair of Fox Corp., accompanied reporter Benjamin Hall to meet with Zelensky as the Fox corespondent was given the countrys Order of Merit. Hall was injured during a 2022 attack that killed Fox cameraman Pierre Zakrzewski and local Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra Kuvshynova as they were covering the war. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. France has called on Rwanda to end all support for M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo and to pull its troops out of the country. This comes on the heels of demonstrations in the eastern city of Goma against both Rwanda and its Western allies. Fighting between the mostly Tutsi M23 rebellion and Congolese government forces has flared in recent days around the town of Sake, 20 kilometres from Goma in North Kivu province. The DRC, the UN and some Western countries have been saying for months that Rwanda is supporting the M23 rebels in a bid to control vast mineral resources, an allegation Kigali denies. France's foreign ministry called on Rwanda to cease all support to the M23 and to withdraw from Congolese territory. "M23 must cease fighting immediately and withdraw from all areas it occupies," it added. Flag burning Meanwhile, dozens of demonstrators turned out on Monday, some draped in the DRC flag with red bands around their heads, trampling on the flags of the United States, the European Union (EU), France and Poland. "These are the flags of countries complicit with Rwanda," organisers said. "We are in the street to denounce the crimes of which the Congolese are victims," Espoir Mwinuka, an activist with the Lucha (Struggle for Change) movement, told the French news agency AFP. "Rwanda kills us every day and is supported by the international community, which is why we burned these flags", he added. They carried placards, reading: "Stop the massacres in the DRC", "France = M23/Rwanda", "To be silent is to be an accomplice". (with newswires) Read more on RFI English Read also: DR Congo constitutional court upholds Tshisekedi election win UN peacekeepers begin long process of leaving DR Congo after 25 years Young African photographers provide new perspective on DR Congo conflict By Sybille de La Hamaide and Elizabeth Pineau PARIS (Reuters) -French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal tried to ease tensions with farmers on Wednesday by outlining the implementation of measures announced this month and promising a new law to better safeguard their income. Attal made the announcement in a speech before the annual Salon de l'Agriculture farming trade fair, which President Emmanuel Macron is due to launch on Saturday. While some local grievances vary, farmers' protests in France and other European countries have exposed tensions over the impact on farming of a European Union drive to fight climate change and the opening of the door to cheap Ukrainian imports to help Kyiv's war effort. Convoys of tractors disrupted traffic around Madrid on Wednesday as farmers protested against what they see as excessive red tape and insufficient state aid. In Greece, thousands of farmers spent the night in front of parliament to protest against rising fuel and production costs. In France, farmers largely suspended weeks of protests that included blocking highways after Attal on Feb. 1 promised new measures. But the farmers say they are not being paid enough and are choked by taxes, green rules and face unfair competition from abroad, and have been pressing the government to show the first results of the emergency measures before the trade fair. "We heard the farmers' call, we made commitments, we are keeping them," Attal told reporters. Macron and his government are wary of farmers' growing support for the far right ahead of European Parliament elections in June. NEW PRICE LAW The new Egalim law, designed to guarantee fair prices at the farm gate and strengthen the position of farmers in negotiations with retailers and consumer goods makers, will be ready by the summer, Attal said. It will aim at ensuring the price-fixing system starts from farmers, improve production cost indicators and ensure European purchasing bodies comply, he said. Controls on the application of the current Egalim law showed two European purchasing bodies had not complied and were facing sanctions of tens of millions of euros, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said. Attal announced an exemption from this year of contributions for nearly all seasonal agricultural workers, mainly used in grape and fruit picking, and said it would be easier for them to get temporary visas. A specific plan for livestock breeders, who are particularly suffering from a drop in income, will be presented at the farm show, he said. A government source said the budget for the agriculture relief plan remained 400 million euros ($431.88 million), despite the new measures. Farm unions welcomed the measures but said some requests remained unanswered. "We would be dishonest not to recognise that things are trending in the right direction," young farmers union JA President Arnaud Gaillot told reporters. Confederation Paysanne wrote on X: "Finally Gabriel Attal talks about income!" Pro-environment groups said a change in the way pesticides would be measured would skew actual levels, and some protests are still planned before and during the farm show. ($1 = 0.9262 euros) (Reporting by Sybille de La Hamaide, Dominique Vidalon, Piotr Lipinski and Elizabeth Pineau, editing by Ingrid Melander and Timothy Heritage) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken gestures on arrival at Brasilia Air Base on February 20, 2024, after landing for a three-day visit to the country (EVARISTO SA) G20 foreign ministers open a two-day meeting Wednesday in Brazil, with the outlook bleak for progress on a thorny agenda of conflicts and crises, from the Gaza and Ukraine wars to growing polarization. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are both expected in Rio de Janeiro for the first high-level G20 meeting of the year -- though not China's Wang Yi. In a world torn by conflicts and divisions, Brazil, which took over the rotating G20 presidency from India in December, has voiced hopes for what President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva calls "the forum with the greatest capacity to positively influence the international agenda." But Lula's bid to make the G20 a space for finding common ground suffered Sunday when the veteran leftist ignited a diplomatic firestorm by accusing Israel of "genocide," comparing its military campaign in the Gaza Strip to the Holocaust. The comments drew outrage in Israel, which declared him "persona non grata," and could overshadow any bid to de-escalate the conflict via the G20. "If Lula imagined he was going to propose peace resolutions on Israel or Ukraine, that just got swept off the table," international relations specialist Igor Lucena told AFP. More than four months after the Gaza war started with Hamas fighters' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which has vowed to wipe out the Islamist group in retaliation, there is little sign of progress toward peace. A new UN Security Council resolution on a ceasefire was vetoed Tuesday by the United States, which said the text would endanger ongoing negotiations, including on the release of Hamas-held hostages. The outlook is similarly downbeat on Russia's war in Ukraine, which also has G20 members divided. Despite a push from Western countries for the group to condemn President Vladimir Putin's invasion, the G20's last summit, held in New Delhi in September, ended with a watered-down statement that denounced the use of force but did not explicitly name Russia, which maintains friendly ties with fellow members like India and Brazil. Underlining the G20 stalemate, the G7 group of top economies -- Ukrainian allies Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States -- will hold its own virtual meeting on the war Saturday, the second anniversary of Russia's invasion. - 'Putting out fires' - Held at a marina on the Rio waterfront, the G20 meeting will open with a session on "addressing international tensions." The ministers will discuss global governance reform Thursday -- a favorite issue for Brazil, which wants a greater voice for the global south at institutions like the UN, IMF and World Bank. "The number and gravity of conflicts has returned to the level of the Cold War. That brings new urgency to the issue," said Brazil's top diplomat for G20 political negotiations, Mauricio Lyrio. "We need to adapt the international system to prevent new conflicts," he told journalists Tuesday. "Now, we're just putting out fires." Brazil also wants to use its G20 presidency to push the fights against poverty and climate change. There will also be space for bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the gathering -- though a Blinken-Lavrov encounter looks unlikely, given the exploding tension over Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death in prison Friday. Blinken and Lavrov last met in person at a G20 gathering in India in March 2023. - Election-year havoc - Founded in 1999, the Group of 20 brings together most of the world's biggest economies. Originally an economic forum, it has grown increasingly involved in international politics. But the prospects for major advances via the group are dim in a year when elections will be held in some 50 countries, including key G20 members such as the United States and Russia, said Lucena. "Reaching big agreements will be difficult," he said. "It's not a favorable environment for resolving conflicts. On the contrary." A Brazilian government source said that after recent G20 struggles for consensus, the hosts axed the requirement that every meeting produce a joint statement -- with the exception of the annual leaders' summit, scheduled for November in Rio. burs-jhb/bgs A G20 Brazil sign is seen in front of Rio de Janeiro's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pablo PORCIUNCULA) Brazil criticized the "paralysis" of the UN Security Council on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine as it opened a G20 meeting Wednesday where the international community's deep divisions were on display. The outlook is bleak for progress on the thorny agenda of conflicts and crises gripping the planet as foreign ministers from the world's biggest economies gather in Rio de Janeiro for the Group of 20's first high-level meeting of the year. Opening the two-day meeting, which featured US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Brazil's top diplomat, Mauro Vieira, said the explosion of global conflicts shows international institutions like the United Nations are not working. "Multilateral institutions are not properly equipped to deal with the current challenges, as has been demonstrated by the Security Council's unacceptable paralysis on the ongoing conflicts" in Gaza and Ukraine, Vieira said, adding the situation was costing "innocent lives." EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell for his part warned multilateralism "is in crisis." The Security Council has failed to act on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, held in check by Russian veto power, and has struggled to find a response to the war in Gaza, with Israel's ally the United States using its veto to block calls for a ceasefire, most recently Tuesday. Brazil, which took over the rotating G20 presidency from India in December, has voiced hopes the group could be a forum to make progress on such questions. But that likely took a hit when Lula ignited a diplomatic firestorm Sunday by accusing Israel of "genocide," comparing its military campaign in the Gaza Strip to the Holocaust. The comments drew outrage in Israel, which declared him persona non grata, and could overshadow any bid to de-escalate the conflict via the G20. Blinken, who met Lula Wednesday in Brasilia before heading to the G20, "made clear we disagree with (his) comments," a senior State Department official told journalists. The secretary of state and Brazilian leader had a "frank exchange" in their more than 90-minute meeting at the presidential palace, the official said. - Wars of words - More than four months after the Gaza war started with Hamas fighters' unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which has vowed to wipe out the Islamist group in retaliation, there is little sign of progress toward peace. The outlook is similarly grim on Russia's war in Ukraine, which also has G20 members divided as the second anniversary of President Vladimir Putin's invasion approaches. Despite a push by Western countries to condemn the invasion, the G20's last summit ended with a watered-down statement denouncing the use of force but not explicitly naming Russia, which maintains friendly ties with India and Brazil, among other members. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said he planned to use the Rio meeting to "call out Russia's aggression" directly to Lavrov, as Britain announced sanctions on six Russian officials over opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death in prison last week. Lavrov -- who will meet Lula in Brasilia Thursday, according to a Brazilian official -- meanwhile lashed out at the West for "pumping Ukraine full of arms." "Neither Kiev nor the West have shown the political will to resolve the conflict," he told Brazilian newspaper O Globo. Blinken voiced pessimism on the current chances for diplomacy on Ukraine in his meeting with Lula. "We dont see the conditions for it right now," a US official said. - Blinken-Lavrov - Brazil also wants to use its G20 presidency to push the fights against poverty and climate change. There will also be space for bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the gathering -- though a Blinken-Lavrov encounter looks unlikely, given soaring tensions. The pair last met in person at a G20 gathering in India in March 2023. Founded in 1999, the G20 brings together most of the world's biggest economies. Originally an economic forum, it has grown increasingly involved in international politics. A Brazilian government source said that after recent G20 struggles for consensus, the hosts axed the requirement that every meeting produce a joint statement -- with the exception of the annual leaders' summit, scheduled for November in Rio. burs-jhb/dw SINGAPORE General Atomics is expanding its cooperation with Japan by investing in the nuclear-energy sector, a growing relationship that executives hope will propel the companys drone-making defense business there. We plan to soon announce another partnership with a Japanese company, which I cannot yet disclose, to create a new type of communications pod for Japan that can provide assistance in part in the face of natural disasters, C. Mark Brinkley, senior director of communications at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems told Defense News at the Singapore Airshow. It would be designed to be used with our aircraft, though podded systems can often also be used with other aircraft as well, he added. In recent days, the American drone manufacturer has emphasized how committed it is to strengthening its presence in Japan. On the first day of the Airshow, organized here from Feb. 19-23, the firm announced that they are collaborating with Japanese partners to advance the development of technologies in the maritime security, nuclear energy, and rare earth elements sectors. The Japan Coast Guard and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force have been trialing the MQ-9B SeaGuardian drone for surveillance missions since last year. Japans Defense Minister Minoru Kihara said that the government plans to expand the scope of the testing period. From July to September the MQ-9B will operate from Kanoya Air Base on Japans southern tip, and a simulated surveillance crisis over the East China Sea will be conducted on three different occasions as part of the tests, he said. Brinkley said that the company welcomes the tests, suggesting the drones had been performing well. SeaGuardian is really going to open up Indo-Pacific monitoring efforts, he said. As for eventually purchasing MQ-9B drone, Brinkley said the state of negotiations was advanced. A report published last year by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies highlights that one of the thrusts of Japans Defense Buildup Plan, approved in 2022, is to broaden research and development activities and projects with international partners to boost the countrys technological base. When asked whether General Atomics new investments in the Japanese nuclear-energy and rare-earth sectors were connected to possible future defense contracts, Brinkley said that the company was interested in a holistic relationship with Tokyo. Our defense efforts certainly open doors for conversations in other areas, he said. My pip of a father, John Henneberger, walked around every day building people up: Youre doing a great job, hed tell anyone who was. Youre a great American, hed say. So it got my attention when, not long before he died in 2017, he asked the doctor who was examining him this question: My generation saved the world from the Nazis. What is your generation going to do? Naturally, the poor guy had no reply. But can we please not let the answer be, Lose the republic? Or Mess around and let Putin put the band back together? In part, Im sure, because my dad served in World War II, I look to one of historys great encouragers, Winston Churchill, as someone who could if we let him inspire greater confidence and collective action in this moment that has so much in common with the one he helped lead the world out of. Thats why this week, Im reading Erik Larsons The Splendid and the Vile. His book isnt new, even to me. But its one I returned to after Donald Trumps stupefyingly vile talk about encouraging Russia to do whatever the hell it wants against any NATO ally who doesnt pay, and, then, just six days later, Russian resistance leader Aleksei Navalnys death in a prison in the Arctic. The courage and clarity that Navalny showed was always going to live on after him, in a way that the poisoners never seem to appreciate. Listen, Ive got something very obvious to tell you. Navalny told his people in a 2022 documentary. You are not allowed to give up. If they decide to kill me, it means that we are incredibly strong. That was Churchills essential message, too: You are not allowed to give up. Ukraine never will, and we cannot let them lose everything because we did. Churchill led during WWII with heart, courage Larsons book, which pulls us into Churchills first year as prime minister, starting on May 10 of 1940, shows us a man who between his heavy drinking and many quirks would never be asked to form a government today. Just a couple of tweets sorry, Xs about that night Winnie put on some music and skipped around a room full of dinner guests in his red dressing gown, and Hitler, who tried so hard to engineer Churchills ouster, would surely have gotten his wish. (Neither, for that matter, could FDR be elected now; cant you just see Trump mocking his wheelchair?) But Churchills great gift was his ability, by showing no fear and by finding the right words, to keep his people pulling together while the lights were out and the bombs were falling. He mobilized the English language, and sent it into battle, as an adversary put it in the 2017 movie Darkest Hour. Just before France fell, he began a BBC radio broadcast this way: I speak to you for the first time as prime minister in a solemn hour for the life of our country. Larson says he explained how the Germans had broken through the French line, using a remarkable combination of aircraft and tanks. However, he said, the French had proven themselves in the past to be adept at raising counteroffensives, and this talent, in tandem with the power and skill of the British Army, could turn the situation around. The speech, Larson wrote, set a pattern that he would follow throughout the war, offering a sober appraisal of facts, tempered with reason for optimism. It would be foolish to disguise the gravity of the hour, Churchill said. It would be still more foolish to lose heart and courage. Yes and yes. Now we hear that not only is Navalny gone, but the Russian military pilot Maksim Kuzminov, who defected to Ukraine in his Mi-8 helicopter last August, and then had his life threatened on Russian state TV, has been found shot to death and run over in Spain. Putin is not subtle, and yet even as our ally Ukraine loses ground thanks to our inaction, House Speaker Mike Johnson says theres no rush on approving the aid thats already been on hold for four months. Is sacrifice for the common good still possible? Of course it is, though wed first have to agree on what that would look like. When we return now to Churchills famous speech, We shall fight on the beaches, to save what matters most, its hard not to think that we these days prefer to fight one another, more or less constantly, over the most trivial and even made-up issues. This is not made-up: If House Republicans continue to be content to let Putin keep what hes trying to steal in Ukraine, and if we keep right on giving away our own democracy a handful at a time, out of the self-hatred that spite for our fellow Americans really amounts to, those would be mistakes that we might not be able to walk back. We dont have to let either of those related calamities happen on our watch, though. Because even in this time of theyre all bad and, as one of our chief nihilists, Tucker Carson, recently put it, every leader kills people, these two things are still true: It would be foolish to disguise the gravity of the hour, and still more foolish to lose heart. Portrait of President George Washington engraving 1897 I was in college, like many people voting for the first time. What party do you want to register in? asked a person at a table on campus. I aint in no political party, I told him. Im independent. (It sounds better when you say it with my New York accent.) Two weeks later I got a letter welcoming me as a member of the Independent Party, which existed back then. I called them immediately and told them to take me off their rolls. I dont wanna join any club that wants me as a member, I said, paraphrasing Groucho Marx. Done. I dont know if the Independent Party is still out there, but thats the closest Ive ever been to being part of a political party. I prefer to say Ive never belonged to a political party and never will. Ive never understood their value, our attraction to them, or why anyone would need them to tell you how to vote in a given election. Why do we even need them at all? We dont. They do more harm than good, are more unproductive than constructive, and make it too easy for voters to make choices that are convenient and casual rather than contemplative and careful. [Partisanship] serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection... [Parties]are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people, and to usurp for themselves the reins of government; destroying afterwards the very engines, which have lifted them to unjust dominion. I didnt write those words. George Washington did more than 200 years ago, in what came to be known as his Farewell Address. It would be difficult to find a historical document in this country with a more direct and acerbic assessment of political parties. Washington, whose birthday we celebrate in February, was terrified of the formation of political parties. They were called factions in his day. He believed that individuals would become so enamored of their connection to a party and so covetous of what the party could provide them that they would put matters of party over matters of country. If you look at the current mess that is our political discourse today, and the pernicious influence of political parties in the progress and life of our nation, you understand how prescient the first president of this country was. Pundits will tell you that parties have a purpose. A very useful shortcut for voters, David Karol, a political science professor at the University of California, Berkeley, told me in a 2016 interview. If voters see a party label, he said, they instantly know a lot about that candidate, and thats very helpful for those who want to cast meaningful votes. Why? Because were unwilling to do the homework necessary to ensure we are informed as voters? The word shortcut is troublesome. We put more research time into purchasing our next automobile than electing our next elected representative. Our system of government is complex; our problems complicated, human beings, richly nuanced. Party labels are like CliffsNotes, a self-government cheat sheet that leads us to draw misinformed conclusions and make uninformed decisions about who to credit, who to blame and who to vote for. And they tell us nothing about the most important quality: how a person governs with others. But are political parties the problem? Hans Noel, a political scientist at Georgetown University and co-author of The Party Decides, echoed a common conclusion among scholars: The electorate isnt any more polarized than it was 40 years ago. But the parties are. Most people say they are moderate, Noel has argued in the Washington Post, but in fact the country is polarized around strong conservative and liberal positions. The parties simply moved in those two directions to align themselves with already-existing ideological divisions in America. That sounds more like a survival instinct than leadership. But the result is that political species like Reagan Democrats and Eisenhower Republicans are practically extinct, too moderate for todays party models. So, because they want to win which serves their needs more than ours the political parties have become more like the electorate itself, since thats who puts them in power. If the problem with our political parties isnt the parties but the partisanship, how what do we do if the electorate itself is partisan? Clearly, the parties arent offering any solutions. But is the electorate? In his Farewell Address, Washington warned of three forces that threatened the stability of the republic: the allegiance to political parties (political factionalism), interference by foreign powers in the nations domestic affairs (permanent alliances) and what he called geographical discriminations. As I noted in a recent HuffPost essay, we have been segregating politically for the last four decades. From 1948 to 1976, election results in most of the nations roughly 3,000 counties became more closely divided between Republicans and Democrats. In 1976, in more than half the states, the margin of victory in that years presidential election was less than seven percentage points. By the 2020 election, just eight states had margins of five percentage points or less. In 29 states, it was a blowout. More than 20% of the nations counties had given more than 80% of their vote to either Joe Biden or Donald Trump. Ironically, despite the vast wealth of information the digital age can offer, we have been retreating from the kind of enlightenment that comes with routine exposure to different values, ideas and opinions. As we became more mobile as a society, we chose to live in places that were more like ourselves, exacerbating the nations partisan divide. As John Kenneth White, author of The Values Divide, puts it, We have two parallel universes. Each side seeks to reinforce its thinking by associating with like-minded people. Many comments on my earlier HuffPost piece seemed to think this was okay. If you didnt like where you lived, you could move to a place that aligned more with your values. That is democracy, one reader commented. I would argue that is the opposite of democracy. If everyone thought the same way, whod need democracy? Thered be no need to vote. Wed all agree on everything, right? Yes, thats an oversimplification, but I have made a similar argument in my talk radio days. Why would you listen to me if you agreed with everything I said? If you disagree, instead of turning the radio off, thats when you should turn the radio up. The Great American Experiment calls upon us to embrace diversity, to embrace all things in humanity that differ from ourselves, be it cultural, political, racial, ethnicity, sexuality, ideology or any other -ology you can name. Give us your tired and your poor, the statue says. Why now do we seem to have more people than ever who think thats a threat? Or at least thats all we seem to hear about, including from someone running for president who not only bathes in such thinking but has followers who adore him for it. The threat isnt diversity; its the guy demanding ideological purity and uniformity of thought while calling it patriotism. That isnt America, but if we continue along our current path, that may be all well have left of America. We dont have to sit around, hold hands, drink juice boxes and sing Kumbaya. The Founding Fathers knew differences were healthy, and that they mattered. But they also knew that our common humanity mattered more, and debates over those differences should enrich our culture, not coarsen it. While herd mentality and tribalism are understandably instinctive traits hard-wired into our DNA across millennia, our power to reason allows us to rise above our instincts. If were to make decisions that best benefit our national interest, shouldnt we engage each other in a way that allows us to see different types of people and different-thinking people as human beings, not adversaries? In response to all this, the nations largest voter bloc is now the independent, decline-to-state voter, apparently disgusted with both political parties (or more precisely, the partisanship therein). But theres a consequence: The parties become more extreme because the moderate voters have left it. Its the ultimate political version of the chicken-and-egg question: Have we done to the political parties what we have done to ourselves, which, in turn, has done to us what we have done to our political parties? Or vice versa? The Human Genome Project has discovered that humans are more than 99% the same that every non-age-related difference you can see, including gender and race, is rooted somewhere in the remaining fraction of a percent of our genetic makeup. Yet, almost all of us spend about 99 percent of the time thinking about the half-percent of us thats different not only obsessing over it but even wishing it were more so. What are we losing or gaining in this process as we doggedly cling to our predetermined political ideology? What now dominates our discourse and perhaps the competitive, ratings-obsessed media landscape shares some of the blame is that there are so few on the extremes of that discourse who can see the dishonor in what America has become. They cling to their theories; they take umbrage to dissent; they think themselves worthy of praise and their dogma worthy of obedience. How can you operate a self-governing country as big as ours, as diverse as ours, if too many of us have closed our minds to vibrant political differences and debate? Or if we elect officials who have also closed their minds to vibrant political differences and debate? Heres what Washington is saying to us today: You cant sit this one out. You cant hide behind your labels or retreat into your comfort zones and cocoons. It doesnt matter what party you belong to, or what ideology you follow or dont follow. It doesnt matter what you perceive as the ideal nation. You cant afford to sit this one out and let factions rule the day. But putting an end to the partisan rancor will require us to make a painful admission: The problem isnt the people in office; its us on Main Street, out here in the electorate. Were the partisans sending partisans to the halls of government, and were the only ones who can put a stop to that. Id like to think the independent voters, or the ones who call themselves independents, can lead the way thinking not about party but who is best to govern the nation; who is more willing to work with others, to ignore the factions and, instead, collaborate and compromise. Every job ad, every job interview, asks the same questions: Are you collaborative? Do you work well with others? Thats often put at a higher premium than the skill sets themselves. With our vote, we hire these people. We are the employers. We are the government. Yet, we never seem to ask that crucial question. Analysts and pundits would say the two parties lie between us and the solution. I say, if you, the voter, are a dyed-in-the-wool supporter of one party or the other, then you, too, stand in the way of that solution. And there is no singular solution. Were a pluralistic society fraught with complexities that require a willingness to compromise and a willingness to sacrifice, so we can best satisfy the needs of as many as possible while disadvantaging as few as possible. The first political party that embraces this notion that parts company with the partisan politics and political gamesmanship dominating our discourse, and calls out those who do so, including fellow politicians in their own party and voters who might support them thats the party I seek. This is not a matter of political party or ideology or vendetta against the opposition. Its a matter of being better keepers of our country. The very challenge Washington brilliantly foresaw when he submitted his farewell address in 1796 in writing, by the way rings down through the corridors of history to us. We are now standing on the precipice of a nation in the grip of the very crisis Washington enunciated. I cant think of a time in my lifetime when the advice of Washington was more critical, more relevant, and more needed. Related... GEORGIA (WRBL) A new Emerson College Polling/The Hill survey in Georgia finds 48% of voters support former president Donald Trump in 2024, while 42% support President Joe Biden. Eleven percent are undecided. Since last months Georgia tracking survey, Trumps support has held at 48% while Bidens support has increased one point. Trumps lead is more substantial against hypothetical candidates Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom: Trump leads Harris 51% to 41%, with 8% undecided, and Newsom 51% to 32%, with 17% undecided. Biden leads among Black voters, 65% to 20%, with 16% undecided, whereas Trump leads among white voters, 63% to 30%, with 7% undecided, Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, noted. Independent voter break for President Biden, 44% to 39%, with 18% undecided. Voters under 30 are split: 42% support Trump, 41% support Biden, and 17% are undecided. Regarding President Bidens age, 60% of Georgia voters note Bidens age raises serious doubts in voting for him in 2024, while 40% say this is not a serious consideration for them. Regarding Trumps criminal indictments, 54% say this raises doubts in the mind about voting for Trump, while 46% find it not to be a serious consideration. Male voters are more concerned about Bidens age than women, 63% to 57%, whereas women are more concerned about Trumps criminal convictions, 57% to 49%. Within the top candidates own parties, Trumps convictions raise concern for 27% of Republicans, whereas Bidens age raises concern for 44% of Democrats. The economy is the top issue for 32% of voters, followed by healthcare (13%), crime (13%), housing affordability (9%), immigration (9%), education (9%), abortion access (7%), and threats to democracy (5%). Forty-percent of voters think things in Georgia are headed in the right direction, while 35% think things are on the wrong track. President Biden holds a 39% job approval among Georgia voters, while 50% disapprove of the job he is doing in office. Governor Brian Kemp holds a 52% job approval, while 29% disapprove of the job he is doing; 19% are neutral. Methodology The Emerson College Polling/The Hill Georgia survey was conducted February 14-16, 2024. The sample of registered voters, n=1,000, has a credibility interval, similar to a polls margin of error (MOE), of +/- 3 percentage points. The data sets were weighted by gender, education, race, age, party affiliation, and region based on 2024 registration modeling. Turnout modeling is based on U.S. Census parameters, and voter registration data (GA S.O.S.). It is important to remember that subsets based on demographics, such as gender, age, education, and race/ethnicity, carry with them higher credibility intervals, as the sample size is reduced. Survey results should be understood within the polls range of scores, and with a confidence interval of 95% a poll will fall outside the range of scores 1 in 20 times. Data was collected by contacting an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system of landlines and a consumer list of emails (both provided by Aristotle), and an online panel of voters provided by Alchemer. This survey was conducted by Emerson College Polling and sponsored by Nexstar Media. All questions asked in this survey with exact wording, along with full results and cross tabulations can be found under Full Results. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. Members of the state Senates Education & Youth Committee could not precisely define what a newly-introduced civics bill meant by the term upright and desirable citizenry at a public hearing Tuesday. Nevertheless, starting in the 2025-26 school year, thats the standard K-12 students in Georgia schools could be expected to uphold. The measure, Senate Bill 459, passed in committee by a narrow 5-4 margin, meaning it will now head to the Senate floor for further debate. SB 459 would mandate civics education aimed at "preserving and defending the blessings of liberty inherited from prior generations and secured by the United States Constitution. The new civics guidelines would also implement an oral history program called Portraits in Patriotism, which features first-person accounts of victims of other nations' governing philosophies. More: Georgia Senate resolution urges immigration reforms, funds for U.S.-Mexico border wall The program, which was created by the University of South Floridas College of Education and Innovative Education Studios, was fully implemented in Florida schools for the first time during this school year. It includes interviews with Florida residents who fled Communist governments in countries such as Venezuela, China, and the former Soviet Union and instructs students to compare and contrast those political systems with that of the U.S. The bills wording, including the reference to the Portraits in Patriotism program, is nearly identical to legislation passed in a few other states, namely HB 5 in Florida and HB 2008 in Arizona. Assembly Bill 898 has been introduced in the Wisconsin legislature, but has yet to pass. But at the bills hearing in Georgia, explanations for what exactly constitutes a patriotically-minded citizen remained elusive. Georgia state Senator Clint Dixon I think its pretty clear as far as upright and desirable citizenry, said state Sen. Clint Dixon (R-Gwinnett), who both authored the bill and chairs the Senates Education & Youth Committee. I dont see where anythings murky or unclear with the statement. Other legislators in support of the bill claimed that the phrase did not need a definition, arguing that the meaning was self-evident. Georgia state Senator Ed Setzler This panel and the people in this room can have a consensus about what a worthy, noble life is, and if we saw it, wed recognize it, said state Sen. Ed Setzler (R-Acworth). I do think theres certain standards of excellence and truth that we want to uphold that is essential to have a free society. However, Senate Democrats on the committee pushed back, arguing that the bills text was too open-ended and subjective, and that the language had historical implications for communities of color. Georgia state Senator Sonya Halpern I think everybody in this room, or certainly sitting up here, agrees that civics education is really important for young people, said state Sen. Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta). I think I do understand what it is you're trying to say here. But when we say things like upright and desirable citizenry, that's a hard thing, I think, for those of us like me, who for the longest time weren't part of that citizenry or considered upright or desirable. The 2024 legislative session is more than halfway over, meaning that lawmakers have limited time to pass the bill in the Senate chamber before Crossover Day, which is slated for Feb. 29. Bills that do not manage to cross over from one chamber into the other by that date cannot be signed into law. This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Georgia civics bill would emphasize patriotism, dangers of communism A police officer stands in front of a broken window pane and photographs the scene. The police have searched several buildings in a large-scale raid against people smugglers. Justin Brosch/dpa Police forces have searched properties in four German states in a major raid against suspected members of a people-smuggling gang. An Interior Ministry spokesman said the operation on Wednesday morning in North Rhine Westphalia, Hesse, Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein was aimed at executing several European arrest warrants. Police authorities in France and Belgium also participated, the German ministry said. The suspects are said to have been involved in smuggling people across the English Channel. The spokesman announced that the operation focussed on the western German state of North Rhine Westphalia. Europol confirmed that the operation involved several European countries. However, details would not be provided until the afternoon, a spokeswoman for the police authority told dpa. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) and Robert Habeck, German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, attend the meeting of the German Cabinet in the Federal Chancellery. Carsten Koall/dpa German Chancellor Olaf Scholz continues to oppose the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, a government spokesman said on Wednesday, despite growing pressure from his coalition. On Thursday, Germany's coalition parliamentary groups want to introduce a joint motion to the Bundestag, Germany's lower house of parliament, to deliver "additional, necessary long-range weapons systems and ammunition." The weapons should enable Ukraine to "enable targeted attacks on strategically relevant targets far to the rear of the Russian aggressor," the motion continues. Taurus cruise missiles would fulfil these requirements, but are not explicitly mentioned in the motion. The chancellor "wholeheartedly" supports this motion, government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said in Berlin on Wednesday. He did not even mention the word "Taurus," but said for Scholz, as far as the "delivery of a special weapon system is concerned, he is sticking to his position." Ukraine officially requested Taurus cruise missiles from the German government in May. The weapons can hit targets up to 500 kilometres away with great precision. Scholz has blocked their delivery to Ukraine, reportedly out of concern that the highly capable weapon might be used by Ukrainian forces to strike sensitive Russian targets and thereby escalate tensions between Germany and Russia. The German chancellor decided in early October not to send Ukraine the sophisticated missiles. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (R) and Robert Habeck, German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, attend the meeting of the German Cabinet in the Federal Chancellery. Carsten Koall/dpa A leading manufacturer of ghost guns will halt sales to Maryland residents under a settlement agreement reached with the city of Baltimore, the city announced Wednesday. The agreement will settle Baltimores lawsuit against Polymer80, a Nevada-based manufacturer of ghost guns and firearm parts. The suit argued the company and its firearms have created a public health crisis in the city. Ghost guns are firearms sold as do-it-yourself kits and are usually untraceable and unserialized. Baltimore accused Polymer80 of intentionally undermining various state and federal firearm laws to design, manufacture and sell ghost gun kits and parts without requiring a background check. An increasing number of ghost guns have been recovered by law enforcement in criminal investigations or in the hands of minors, prompting both state and federal efforts to curb their proliferation. The Biden administration in 2022 announced a crackdown on ghost guns, which was challenged by gun rights advocacy groups shortly afterward. Baltimores suit was filed in June 2022 in partnership with the nonprofit Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence. Around the same time, Marylands new gun law that prohibited people from pushing receiving, selling, offering to sell or transferring ghost guns went into effect. It also banned people from selling firearms that are not legally licensed. The settlement grants the city all measures of relief requested in the suit, including $1.2 million in damages, city officials said. In addition to prohibiting the sale of ghost guns to Maryland residents, the settlement also bars Polymer80 from advertising in the Old Line State and requires the manufacturer to ban dealers in nearby states from selling ghost guns to Maryland residents. City officials said the settlement marks the most expansive and strictest injunctive terms of any suit against ghost gun manufacturers in the country. Philip Bangle, Bradys senior litigation counsel, called the suit a victory for Baltimore and the right for gun industry accountability. Polymer80 fueled gun violence in the city by selling ghost guns to subvert lifesaving Brady Background Checks, Bangle wrote in a statement Wednesday, adding later, This settlement will staunch the flow of these weapons and force Polymer80 to contribute to healing the City of Baltimore for the injuries and trauma their products inflicted on the city. The Hill reached out to Polymer80 for comment. Nine out of ten homicides in Baltimore City are committed with guns, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott said. As I have promised, the City is using every tool at its disposal to address the epidemic of gun violence we face, and our comprehensive approach is finally seeing success in driving down violence. City officials said ghost guns continue to play a role in gun violence in Baltimore, adding that the citys police seized 462 ghost guns last year. As of Wednesday, police have already seized 43 ghost guns this year, the city said. The suit was also filed against Maryland gun shop Hanover Armory, which was not named in the settlement agreement. That part of the suit remains ongoing, The Associated Press reported. Polymer80 has been involved in similar litigation in other cities, including Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., the news wire added. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. With over 25 years of industry experience including previously owning two traditional dine-in restaurants John McDevitt is a restaurant expert of sorts. However, his latest creation, Paso Backdoor Cucina, is far from traditional. Operating as a ghost restaurant, Paso Backdoor Cucina offers meals exclusively for pickup and delivery. For McDevitt and his team, the ghost style restaurant has been a creative way to allow the team to adapt to the post-COVID challenges facing the restaurant industry. Each week, McDevitt and his culinary team cook up East Coast Italian food that can be picked up at their kitchen at 635 28th St. in Paso Robles just behind the Moose Lodge. The food can also be delivered via Grubhub. Executive chef John McDevitt at Paso Backdoor Cucina, a ghost kitchen serving carry out, delivery and catering only. Italian cuisine and fish all with made from scratch ingredients, as seen here on Feb. 2, 2024. David Middlecamp/dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com I grew up in New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey where there was an Italian restaurant everywhere that puts out really good food, McDevitt said in an interview with The Tribune. I couldnt find that here. I felt like any time I tried to go out to eat I was spending an awful lot of money. In addition to making high quality and affordable dishes, McDevitt said he wanted to make food like his childhood favorites. The menu boasts a wide range of Italian dishes including several different strombolis, lasagnas and East-Coast-style sandwiches. Everything served at Paso Backdoor Cucina is made from scratch, McDevitt said even the pasta. John McDevitt opened Paso Backdoor Cucina for carry out or delivery only. This is pan seared petrale sole with wild mushroom risotto wilted spinach, caper herb beurre blanc on Feb. 2, 2024. David Middlecamp/dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com In addition to high quality food, McDevitt credits the success of the kitchen to a top-notch staff. My staff is made up of a lot of really great people, McDevitt said. The food is going to be consistent whether Im here or not. McDevitt described his team as friends and family. I couldnt do any of it without them, McDevitt added. Customers interested in viewing the full menu can do so at centralcoastcuisine.com. Though the food is available via GrubHub, McDevitt said customers can cut down on delivery costs and pick the food up from the kitchen. Sous chef Robert Reves, left, with executive chef John McDevitt at Paso Backdoor Cucina, a ghost kitchen with carry out, delivery and catering only. Italian cuisine and fish all with made from scratch ingredients, as seen here on Feb. 2, 2024.. David Middlecamp/dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com For more information Paso Backdoor Cucina is open for delivery or pickup Thursday through Saturday from noon to 8:30 p.m. For more information, visit centralcoastcuisine.com/paso-backdoor-cucina. A 7-year-old girl died Tuesday after sand from a deep hole she was digging with her brother at the beach in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea collapsed in on them both. Her brother was pulled out alive, but was hospitalized. The tragedy that befell the family visiting South Florida from Indiana made international headlines given what seems like the freak nature of the accident. But, according to those who make their living saving lives at the beach, such incidents arent as uncommon as people may realize. Digging deep holes in the sand is dangerous, and as Tuesdays incident shows, potentially deadly. This happens, once, twice, three times a year, and its preventable, said Tom Gill, vice president of the United States Lifesaving Association, a nonprofit organization for professional ocean lifeguards. READ MORE: BSO identifies children in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea beach sand hole collapse A 7-year-old girl was pronounced dead at Broward Health Medical Center after Pompano Beach Fire Rescue paramedics pulled her from a sand hole at a Lauderdale-by-the-Sea beach Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 20, 2024. The average beach goer is more afraid of being killed by a shark in the ocean, but that remains an extremely rare risk, according to marine experts. But, dying in a hole from quickly cascading fine grains of sand is statistically an equal, albeit, more avoidable, danger, according to published research. Its about what you should not do, Gill said. You should not dig deep holes in the sand. In 2023, there were 36 recorded unprovoked shark attacks in the United States, but only two were fatal and most of the others were minor bites, according to the Florida Museum of Natural Historys International Shark Attack File. While exact data on how many fatal collapses occur as a result of holes dug at the beach is hard to come by, some research shows the number of people killed nationally by sharks is about on par with those killed after being trapped in sand holes dug out at the beach. Harvard study shows dangers of dry sand holes A study done by a Harvard Medical School researcher published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2007 detailed 52 cases over a 10-year period where people were buried by a collapsing dry-sand hole that had been dug out, 31 of those ending fatally. The victims ranged in age from 3 to 21 years, the study found, and the holes were generally 2 to 12 feet deep, and 2 to 15 feet in diameter. More recently, similar tragedies as happened in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea impacted families in other parts of the country. Investigators on the beach in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea take photos of the scene of a sand hole collapse on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. A 7-year-old girl died Tuesday afternoon after she and a her brother were digging a hole in the sand on the beach at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea when it collapsed on them, burying them both, a city official said. In May, a 17-year-old boy from Chesapeake, Virginia, was killed while digging a hole at the side of a sand dune at a beach in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. An adjacent dune collapsed into the hole he was trapped in, the AP reported. A year earlier, an 18-year-old man from Maine died while digging an 8- to-10-feet hole with his sister on the beach in Toms River, New Jersey. Sand unstable A hole dug in the beach is highly unstable. Once the sand starts spilling in a deep hole, theres little to nothing to do to stop it from filling in. And, when the person becomes trapped, getting them out alive is a race against time and the engineering of a rapidly suffocating environment. The bigger the hole, exponentially, the greater the danger, Gill said. As Tuesdays incident demonstrated, it doesnt matter how many people frantically try to dig the trapped person out. Its often too late. It takes experts who know how to to pull sand out properly, with the right equipment, to remove a person from the deluge of overwhelming grains. Theres nothing to keep the sand from building up all around you, and the pressure, it ultimately can kill you, Gill said. This is not to say people, especially children, shouldnt play in the sand, and even dig holes. But, theres a protocol lifeguards go by when talking to people on the beach, Gill said: Never dig deeper than the height of the knee of the youngest person in your group. Sand is not stable. Ever, he said. MIAMI - A young girl is dead and a boy is at a local hospital Tuesday night after being trapped in a sand hole in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It happened in the area of 4424 El Mar Drive. Images from Chopper 4 showed the sand hole surrounded by cones on the beach and police yellow tape. Fire Rescue officials said the boy remains at Broward General Medical Center after a six-foot deep sand hole collapsed on the children at the beach in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Authorities said it happened shortly after 3 p.m. They received a call saying that a boy and a girl approximately 9 and 7 years old were digging a hole on the beach with some adults and that a sand hole was about five to six feet deep when it collapsed. A video obtained by CBS News Miami shows good Samaritans on the beach trying to dig out the kids out of the hole. They were trying to hold on to the walls of the hole, so it would not collapse further. The boy was buried up to his chest and the little girl was completely submerged in the sand underneath him. Pompano Fire pulled both out. The boy remains at Broward General where he's in stable condition, the girl tragically was pronounced dead on arrival. The Broward Sheriff's Office is the lead agency on this investigation. Nikki Haley vows to continue campaign through Super Tuesday Historic lunar landing: U.S. spacecraft to touch down on the moon 7-year-old girl dies after beach hole collapsed on her and her brother Rudy Giuliani appealed a jurys verdict ordering him to pay $148 million to two Georgia election workers for defaming them following the 2020 election. Giuliani filed for bankruptcy days after the verdict was handed down in December, freezing the election workers case and their efforts to collect the staggering sum from the former New York City mayor, who once represented former President Trump as his personal attorney. Hours after his bankruptcy judge unfroze the defamation case and enabled Giulianis attorney to continue representing him, he formally filed his notice of appeal late Tuesday. We very much appreciate the judges expeditious consideration of this matter and look forward to proceeding accordingly, Ted Goodman, political adviser to Giuliani, said in a statement earlier in the day after the bankruptcy judges ruling. A jury comprising eight Washington, D.C., residents ordered Giuliani to pay $148 million to the two election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, after making them a focal point of the Trump campaigns baseless claims of mass voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election. Giuliani spread falsehoods that the mother-daughter duo engaged in mass voter fraud, accusations that largely revolved around video footage showing them working at Atlantas State Farm Arena on election night. The verdict followed a four-day trial at which both Freeman and Moss testified, telling the jurors at length about how their lives were turned upside down as they faced a torrent of racist and violent threats following the accusations from Giuliani and other Trump allies. Were confident Ms. Freeman and Ms. Mosss verdict will not be overturned, Freeman and Mosss lawyers said in a statement. Giuliani also renewed his motion for judgment as a matter of law Tuesday to the judge who oversaw the recent trial, insisting the statements in question were protected opinion under the First Amendment and werent made with actual malice. The judge previously rejected those assertions as well as Giulianis argument that the election workers experts testimony was inadmissible. The Court should have stricken the testimony and instructed the jury to disregard it. Based on this error, the jury returned an exorbitant damages award for reputation injury based on expert testimony that should not have been admitted, Joseph Sibley, Giulianis attorney, wrote in court filings. Alternatively, Sibley asked that his client be given a new trial. Prior to the trial, Giuliani was found liable by default in the case for failing to turn over discovery. The jury merely decided how much he must pay. The absurdity of the number really underscores the absurdity of the entire proceeding, Giuliani said after the verdict was handed down, also doubling down on his baseless claims about the two women. It remains unclear how much money the mother-daughter duo would be able to recover from Giuliani, even if his appeal fails. Freeman and Moss have the largest claim among a notable list of creditors in the ex-Trump attorneys ongoing bankruptcy case. The other creditors are largely other people and companies that have sued Giuliani. The list includes Hunter Biden, the presidents son; voting equipment companies Smartmatic and Dominion; and Giulianis ex-lawyers, who are suing him over unpaid legal bills. Giulianis appeal Tuesday came after his bankruptcy judge approved a plan for Sibley to be paid in his continued representation of the former New York City mayor. In a sworn declaration, Sibley said he agreed to be paid a flat rate of $50,000 from two third-party funds supporting Giulianis legal battles to handle the appeal. Giuliani himself is prohibited from coughing up the funds in order to preserve his assets for the election workers and the other creditors. Updated at 3:59 pm. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) The Rotary Club of Grand Junction is excited to celebrate the winners of the Winter 2024 Robin Hood Grants. This year, the committee chose a theme that reflected Rotary Internationals dedication to mental health. Winners will receive $30,000 in total, thanks to the Rotary Club of Grand Junction and their parent organization for matching the grant funds. The Robin Hood Committee selected the following groups for the grants: Western Slope Center for Children Therapy Services Center for Enriched Communications Counseling Services Orchard Mesa Elementary Schools Neurodiversity Cottage Program Regional Outreach Veteran Engagement Resources Break Stigma Program Support-A-Soldier Clearinghouse BAM! Creative Minds + Healthy Minds Project Mesa County Valley School District 51`s Councilor Training The Art Center of Wester Colorado Artability Program Rotary District 5470 matched donations made by the Grand Junction Rotary Club, which made the total amount distributed $30,000. Grand Junction Rotary Club President Steve Schultz told WesternSlopeNow the group looked for non-profits focusing on mental health to make donations to for their Winter 2024 Robin Hood Grants. We work with underserved youth and the arts and help empower through art and business mentorship with local artists. We provide a lot of resources such as art supplies, technial supplies, art shows, internships, commissions, art lessons, work shops, [and] work study programs. Tauma Lee, Executive Director Trail Lamp Youth Services & BAM! The Grand Junction Rotary Club raised money through several fundraisers throughout the year, including a portion of the Banff Film Festival Ticket Sales. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. The U.S. conducted what it called self-defense strikes on five targets in the Houthi-controlled area of Yemen after the Houthis employed an unmanned submarine for the first time since attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden began, the Pentagon said. The submarine, an unmanned underwater vessel, or UUV, shows advancing Houthi capability and a shifting strategy, ABC News national security and defense analyst Mick Mulroy, a former Pentagon official and CIA agent, said. "Unmanned surface and subsurface vessels are likely more difficult to detect and destroy than aerial drones and anti-ship missiles. The Houthis are not likely capable of manufacturing these weapons on their own, so they are probably coming from Iran," Mulroy said. In addition to the unmanned submarine hit Sunday, the U.S.military said it struck an unmanned vessel that moves on the surface, as well as anti-ship cruise missiles which have made up the bulk of U.S. targets in the Houthi arsenal. The Houthis, which the U.S. designates a global terrorist group with Iran's backing, operate out of parts of Yemen they control after a cease-fire in the Yemeni civil war. The International Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force, an arm of the Iranian regime's military forces that coordinates operations outside Iran's borders, supports the Houthis and other armed groups with weapons and financing, the U.S. says. PHOTO: Commanders of Houthis and militia groups on the 20th anniversary of the founder of Houthi Movement, Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi's assassination in Sana'a, Yemen, Feb. 6, 2024. (Anadolu via Getty Images) MORE: What it's like aboard a US warship on the front lines of the Red Sea fight: Reporter's notebook "The Houthis and the IRGC are adjusting their strategy, apparently because they haven't been successful in striking a U.S. naval vessel," Mulroy said. The Houthis have targeted American ships to no avail, while the U.S. has been increasing defensive strikes since a separate militia group, also backed by Iran, struck the U.S. base in Jordan and killed three servicemembers. MORE: US hits Houthi UAVs, ground control station in Yemen "If one or more of these weapons get through and kill U.S. sailors, Iran should expect to be held directly responsible," said Mulroy. The unmanned weapons systems are an acute threat, Mulroy said, since they could "overwhelm the ship's defenses" by attacking from multiple dimensions, a so-called "swarm attack." The U.S. Coast Guard said it intercepted a cache of weapons aboard a ship heading from Iran to Houthi-controlled Yemen on Jan. 15. Among military equipment intercepted were components for the unmanned vessels, the U.S. said the sort of vessels hit in two of Sunday's U.S. strikes. PHOTO: F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet takes off from the U.S.S. Dwight D. Eisenhower, also known as the 'IKE', in the south Red Sea, Feb. 13, 2024. (Bernat Armangue/AP) MORE: US carries out new airstrike against Houthis in Yemen As a part of U.S. preemptive offensives to Houthi aggression, a U.S. official told ABC News the U.S. conducted a cyberattack against an Iranian spy vessel, the MV Behshad, which has cruised the Red Sea and passed targeting information to the Houthis. The cyberattack was a part of the U.S. promised multi-tiered response in the days after the January 28 militia attack in Jordan. The Houthis on Monday said they conducted five strikes in the past 24 hours. Two targeted American ships in the Gulf of Aden and another targeted and sunk a British ship, the Houthis said in a statement. Unmanned Houthi submarines pose new threat to US warships in Red Sea originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The Google logo can be seen on the Internet company's pavilion at the CES technology trade fair. Andrej Sokolow/dpa Germany's top court has rejected an appeal by technology giant Google in a case concerning the disclosure of confidential information to its competitors. Germany's Cartel Office investigated whether Google is exploiting its market power in connection with infotainment systems for vehicles. According to the verdict, the competition watchdog is allowed to share part of its probe with sat-nav specialist TomTom and voice assistant provider Cerence to see if the firms believe competition concerns exist. Aside from a single verbatim quote from Google's internal documents, the company has to disclose its practices to its competitors, the court in Karlsruhe ruled. The other passages were either considered not to be business secrets or the interest of the Cartel Office to clarify the facts outweighed the company's interest in confidentiality, the verdict said. Germany's top competition authority wants to prohibit the company from engaging in various anti-competitive behaviours with its Google Automotive Services (GAS). This concerns a product bundle consisting of the Google Maps map service, a version of the Google Play app store and the Google Assistant voice assistant, which the company generally only offers to vehicle manufacturers as a bundle. Google is racing to fix its new AI-powered tool for creating pictures, after claims it was over-correcting against the risk of being racist. Users said the firm's Gemini bot supplied images depicting a variety of genders and ethnicities even when doing so was historically inaccurate. For example, a prompt seeking images of America's founding fathers turned up women and people of colour. The company said its tool was "missing the mark". "Gemini's AI image generation does generate a wide range of people. And that's generally a good thing because people around the world use it. But it's missing the mark here," Jack Krawczyk, senior director for Gemini Experiences said on Wednesday. "We're working to improve these kinds of depictions immediately," he added. "Can you generate images of the Founding Fathers?" It's a difficult question for Gemini, Google's DEI-powered AI tool. Ironically, asking for more historically accurate images made the results even more historically inaccurate. pic.twitter.com/LtbuIWsHSU Mike Wacker (@m_wacker) February 21, 2024 Google later said it would suspend the tool's ability to generate images of people while it worked on the fix. It is not the first time AI has stumbled over real-world questions about diversity. For example, Google infamously had to apologise almost a decade ago after its photos app labelled a photo of a black couple as "gorillas". Rival AI firm, OpenAI was also accused of perpetuating harmful stereotypes, after users found its Dall-E image generator responded to queries for chief executive, for example, with results dominated by pictures of white men. Google, which is under pressure to prove it is not falling behind in AI developments, released its latest version of Gemini last week. The bot creates pictures in response to written queries. It quickly drew critics, who accused the company of training the bot to be laughably woke. "It's embarrassingly hard to get Google Gemini to acknowledge that white people exist," computer scientist Debarghya Das, wrote. "Come on," Frank J Fleming, an author and humourist who writes for outlets including the right-wing PJ Media, in response to the results he received asking for an image of a Viking. The claims picked up speed in right-wing circles in the US, where many big tech platforms are already facing backlash for alleged liberal bias. Mr Krawczyk said the company took representation and bias seriously and wanted its results to reflect its global user base. "Historical contexts have more nuance to them and we will further tune to accommodate that," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, where users were sharing the dubious results they had received. "This is part of the alignment process - iteration on feedback. Thank you and keep it coming!" The increasingly-discredited star witness for the GOP-led impeachment inquiry into president Joe Biden admitted to federal authorities that he had ties to high-ranking Russian officials, according to a memo from special counsel David Weiss filed on Tuesday. [Alexander] Smirnovs contacts with Russian officials who are affiliated with Russian intelligence services are not benign, the memo said. During his custodial interview on February 14, Smirnov admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about [Hunter Biden], the memo said. During his interview with the FBI Smirnov also reported numerous meetings with a particularly dangerous-sounding character: a high-ranking Russian government official that Smirnov described as someone who controls two groups of individuals tasked with carrying out assassination efforts in a third-party country, a Russian representative to another country, and as someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service. The memo does not reveal the identity of Smirnovs contacts. Smirnov previously claimed that Hunter Biden had been given a seat on the board of a Ukrainian-based energy company Burisma for the purpose of shielding the company using his fathers political powerclaims that have yet to be proven. Last week, Smirnov was charged with making a false statement and creating a false and fictitious record in relation to his testimony. In the indictment, Weiss alleged that Smirnov lied about his meetings with Burisma, and added falsities to the stories he relayed when interviewed by the FBI in September. If convicted, Smirnov faces up to 25 years in prison. 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. Representative Andy Ogles is making headlines over flippant remarks he made regarding the harrowing conflict in Palestine, saying in a recently released clip that America should help kill em all. On Thursday, the far-right Tennessean got into a fiery spat with an activist, who pressed Ogles on his position regarding Israels atrocities in Gaza and Americas never-ending distribution of munitions to the cause. Do you know theres a genocide happening right now in Palestine? the activist asked. Over 300 health care workers have been killed. Have you called for a cease-fire? Lets be clear. Hamas raped and murdered babies, Ogles started. Ive seen the footage, and you havent. Ive seen the footage of shredded childrens bodies, the activist responded. Thats my taxpayer dollars that are going to bomb those kids. But Ogles had no mercy for the plighted people, ruthlessly advocating for the complete extermination of Palestine. You know what? So, I think we should kill em all, if that makes you feel better, Ogles, a self-described Christian, spat back. Everybody in Hamas. Do you have a heart? Do you have a family? the activist responded, flabbergasted. Hamas and the Palestinians have been attacking Israel for 20 years. And Its time to pay the piper, the lawmaker continued. Other prompts jumped out at the Republican after a small flock had gathered around him, with activists decrying Israel as an occupier that has spent decades attacking Palestine. Your naivete doesnt make it true, Ogles said, adding, Death to Hamas before descending further into the Capitol. PRO-PALESTINE ACTIVIST: Ive seen of shredded childrens bodies. Thats my tax money bombing those kids.@AndyOgles: I think we should kill em all, if that makes you feel better. ACTIVIST: Do you even have a heart? OGLES: Death to Hamas. A disturbing Ogles exchange. pic.twitter.com/Dpnjqzw43n The Tennessee Holler (@TheTNHoller) February 21, 2024 The blatant cruelty is maybe not as shocking given that Ogles seemingly doesnt care about dead children in his home state either, allegedly pocketing tens of thousands of dollars donated to build a child graveyard in Tennessee. On Tuesday, the White House vetoed a resolution at the United Nations Security Council for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza proposed by Algeria, claiming it would jeopardize talks to end the war. Examine your conscience; how will history judge you? said Amar Bendjama, Algerias U.N. diplomat. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday that Israel is bringing more than two million Palestinians to the brink of deathespecially for those living in the northern section of the enclave. Israels prevention of aid trucks from entering and its occasional targeting of the few allowed in is already resulting in the death of children, elderly, and patients due to hunger, the ministry said in a statement to Al Jazeera. The sight of thousands of children holding empty pots and standing in long lines waiting for any meal or food rations dominates life in northern Gaza. In the digital age, social media has become the hottest ticket for young people. Statistics document the sheer momentum with which social media services have become the worlds greatest phenomenon. DataReportal reports over 4.8 billion user identities on the main platforms online and 150 million accounts created annually. This profile is testimony to the sheer power of social media on the branches of our technological civilization. When the U.S. Senate conducted social media hearings on some of the most popular platforms recently, the world was able to scrutinize various security measures these companies have put into place. Full of action-packed accusations, the joint discussion was aimed at investigating various companies efforts to protect the well-being of their young users. Among those present were representatives/CEOs of mega brands such as Meta (Mark Zuckerberg), Discord (Jason Citron), Snap (Evan Spiegel), X (Linda Yaccarino) and TikTok (Shou Zi Chew). Tempers flared throughout the proceedings, with strong-worded Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley demanding that Zuckerberg directly apologize to those in the courtroom who had been negatively affected by Meta. (He did.) Families harmed by social media proved to be a driving force throughout the 3.5-hour meeting, with emotional outbursts in the ups and downs of the case. However, what really drove the proceedings to a boil were the remarks by Arkansas Republican Sen. Tom Cotton to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew. In a heated exchange regarding Chews citizenship, Cotton explicitly mentioned the growing suspicions that TikTok is an informational resource for China or, more specifically, the Chinese Communist Party. Chew repeatedly told the committee that he was Singaporean by nationality, but Cotton continued to ask about whether the CEO had Chinese citizenship or whether he had applied to become a Chinese citizen. Chew, who stated that he had served [his] military [of Singapore] for two and a half years, lives in Singapore, a free-election nation with stark differences compared to the Chinese government. Cotton then asked about the brutal 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre and again inquired whether Chew was affiliated with or a member of the Chinese Communist Party. Chew again vehemently denied that he was either by saying he was a Singaporean national. Finally, Cotton asked Chews opinion on Chinese genocide and the dictatorship of Xi Jinping. Chew declared he would not talk about any political leaders. The now viral clips on news platforms have since quite ironically blown up internationally on various social media platforms, many of which were under question recently. It has especially caught fire on Instagram and TikTok, where users have attacked Cottons remarks both his condescending actions and racist remarks. What sticks out are the several comparisons to McCarthyism, a term named for former Sen. Joseph McCarthy in the early 1950s. McCarthy, along with some other public figures, accused several other American public figures of being members of the Communist Party and indulging in unpatriotic actions, often causing the accused to lose jobs, livelihoods and social status. An eerie sense of similar dynamics pervaded the social media hearings, where senators like Cotton quickly assumed automatic guilt and painted TikTok a threat without even trying to listen to Chews words in defense of his platform. As an Asian American immigrant myself, I find this spectacle disturbing. Like all the companies in question, TikTok does need to provide truthful, accurate evidence about how their social media platforms are protecting the well-being of their users and the nation. However, I fail to see how Chews race and racial heritage have anything to do with the issue that was under discussion. It is without a doubt important to keep the United States strong in terms of its national security; however, this modern-day McCarthyism is just flat-out racist prejudice on the part of Cotton and his supporters. They focused their efforts on ad hominem attacks on Chew, barraging him with outlandish questions about his political affiliations and national origins, rather than investigating any actual wrongdoing on the part of TikTok. This is a clear case of scapegoating an Asian without solid proof. Additionally, these hearings not only stigmatize the Chinese and Chinese American communities, but also Asians in general. A clear and comprehensive procedure would focus on the various companies policies and practices in the protection of individuals privacy and data rights. Directing baseless insinuations about a CEOs alleged ties to any political party or system (despite his having no linkage to China whatsoever) was a bald-faced exercise in racist hostility. Ultimately, the phrasing used by Sen. Cotton should not be normalized in any way. The government should focus on increasing cooperation between technology companies and their users through advancing collaboration and transparency. This will lead to more effective solutions that address national security. The unfortunate exchange between Cotton and Chew just promotes misinformation, ignorance and racist prejudice. It is only through a commitment to inclusivity and the acknowledgement of diversity that we can build a society that defends individual rights all the while balancing national security concerns with regard to fairness, justice and human dignity. Alex Seojoon Kim Alex Seojoon Kim is a high school student in Stillwater. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Sen. Tom Cotton's 'modern-day McCarthyism' should not be normalized An old lighthouse stands guard over a fishing beach in the Somali capital Mogadishu (GUY PETERSON) Dancers and drummers swarmed the Saudi delegation from the moment they touched down in Somalia's capital to launch new aid projects, part of the kingdom's ramped-up outreach to the African nation. Yet as they politely applauded agreements to provide stationery for schoolchildren and watering points for livestock, some Somali officials made clear they hoped Saudi engagement would go much further, including deeper into the security sphere. Battered by decades of war and a bloody Islamist insurgency, Somalia these days "is in a process of state-building", Abdifatah Mohamed, policy and planning director at the health ministry, told AFP during the recent one-day visit. "We are building our armed forces for protection, we are rebuilding our economy. So in that regard, (the Saudis) can do more." Over the past year, through high-profile summits and humanitarian projects, Saudi officials have consistently shown a desire to "do more" in the Horn of Africa region abutting the strategically vital Red Sea. This has been most visible in Riyadh's hands-on response to the civil war that broke out last April in Sudan, which saw the Saudi navy deploy warships to rescue fleeing civilians as diplomats convened peace talks in Jeddah. Analysts say such moves reflect the kingdom's economic interest in Red Sea stability -- coastal resorts are meant to become an engine of its nascent tourism industry -- as well as a desire to push back against its rival the United Arab Emirates, which also wields intense influence in the region's affairs. "There's this sort of cat-and-mouse game between the Emiratis and the Saudis in the region right now," said Cameron Hudson of Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies. "They're leveraging their relationships with all of these regional states." - Meddling fears - Officials from Saudi Arabia's aid body, known as KSRelief, travelled to Somalia at a time of heightened concern about potential meddling by outsiders, especially the UAE. On January 1, the breakaway region of Somaliland struck a deal that would grant neighbouring Ethiopia commercial and military access to 20 kilometres (12 miles) of its coast for 50 years. In return, Somaliland officials say, landlocked Ethiopia would become the first country to recognise Somaliland as an independent nation -- a development that would infuriate the federal government in Mogadishu. Addis Ababa has not confirmed the terms. The UAE's close ties to both Ethiopia and Somaliland have fuelled suspicions of Emirati involvement in the deal -- suspicions Hudson said were well-founded even if no "smoking gun" had emerged. "The Emiratis have been, in all their relationships in the Horn, very directive," he said. Abu Dhabi, which did not respond to AFP's request for comment, has already come under fierce scrutiny in Sudan, where UN experts have accused it of funnelling "military support" to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces -- a charge the UAE has denied. Omar Mahmood, senior Eastern Africa analyst for the International Crisis Group, said he was not convinced the UAE was driving the Ethiopia-Somaliland deal because it could bring competition and other complications for the Somaliland port of Berbera, which is managed by Dubai's DP World. But he said the tensions it stirred nonetheless created opportunities for outside actors -- including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey -- to deepen ties with Mogadishu. Riyadh in January voiced "extreme concern" for Somalia's "unity" and "sovereignty" -- a position that Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre praised during the Saudi delegation's visit to Mogadishu, drawing the loudest applause of the day. - Deadly attack - Even before the Somaliland dispute erupted, Saudi Arabia was angling for a closer relationship with Somalia, having appointed its first ambassador to the country in three decades in 2021. Late last year, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sent a close adviser, Owais Haji Yusuf Ahmed, to head up the Somali mission in Riyadh -- a signal he wants to deepen ties. With an African Union peacekeeping force set to complete a drawdown by the end of the year, Somalia is expected to lean heavily on Gulf countries for help training 22,000 army troops, as mandated by the UN Security Council. Earlier this month, a Mogadishu attack killed four Emirati soldiers and one Bahraini officer tasked with training the Somali army. It was claimed by Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militants. "Somalia is also looking to import fresh weaponry following the lifting of the UN arms embargo in December, and may turn to countries in the Gulf for assistance," said Mahmood of International Crisis Group. Whichever direction the relationship heads, Saudi Arabia's Gulf neighbours will be keeping close watch, Hudson said, given Somalia's strategic significance and how it might affect the contest for influence in the wider region. The way the Gulf countries see it, he said, the Horn of Africa "is their backyard". rcb/ho/th/bp Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley is attracting thousands of donations from people who gave to President Joe Bidens 2020 campaign as she tries to cobble together a coalition of anti-Trump voters. More than 5,200 donors to Bidens 2020 campaign have backed Haley financially, including roughly 1,600 who gave more than $500,000 in January alone, according to a POLITICO analysis of Haleys most recent fundraising report, filed Tuesday night with the Federal Election Commission. That report lists donors who give at least $200 total, and Haleys campaign reported raising money from more than 55,000 such large-dollar donors in the month of January, and 123,000 in total over the course of her entire campaign. But crossover donors, who give to politicians of both parties, are generally rare in politics, making the number of donors who previously gave to Biden notable. Its especially striking because Haley is currently running in the Republican primary to be the nominee to take on Biden in November. Still, Haleys fundraising base is predominantly Republican. Over 3,000 large-dollar donors who previously gave to Trump in 2020 financially supported her campaign in January, and nearly 10,000 overall this cycle. Taken together, Haleys ability to draw from both former Biden and Trump donors illustrates the coalition she has sought to piece together, which includes moderate and independent voters who are unhappy with Biden, Trump or both. In total, Haleys campaign raised $11.5 million and spent $13.1 million last month, according to the report her campaign filed late Tuesday. That makes January the month of the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary her highest-grossing month so far as she emerged as the sole GOP challenger to Trump. Her campaign reported having just shy of $13 million in the bank as of Jan. 31, compared to more than $30 million cash on hand reported by Trumps campaign. The former U.N. ambassador has tried to attract unaffiliated voters she noted on the campaign trail recently in her home state of South Carolina that anyone who did not vote in the Democratic primary earlier this month is eligible to vote for her this Saturday and her allies have more actively courted Democrats. General election polls have repeatedly shown Haley performing better against Biden than Trump, largely based on a subset of voters who prefer her to either. But those voters are a small enough group and Trump has shown such domination of the GOP that they have not been able to pull Haley to victory in any Republican primaries so far. The financial numbers included in Haleys campaign report do not represent the entirety of her fundraising; Team Stand for America, a joint fundraising committee between Haleys campaign and other political committees she controls, does not have to file a disclosure with the Federal Election Commission until April. And it's clear that Haley is still plowing money into advertising as she tries to chase down Trump. Her campaign spent nearly $7.4 million on media production and placement, accounting for more than half of its spending. The main pro-Haley super PAC, SFA Fund Inc., also reported spending nearly $13.7 million in January alone. Thats more than the major pro-Trump super PAC MAGA Inc. spent, and more than double what the pro-Trump operation spent on efforts like television advertising or get-out-the-vote efforts. The super PAC is going for broke; it spent down to under $2 million in cash reserves at the end of the month. Cash on hand matters much less for super PACs than for campaigns because super PACs can get one or several donors to write massive checks to fund operations. But notably, SFA Fund Inc., did not receive a single seven-figure check in January. Instead, her haul was buffered by people giving five and six figures. Nikki Haley on Tuesday took swings at both President Biden and former President Trump for not normal behavior as she argues both party front-runners are too old for another term. In an appearance on NewsNations The Hill, Haley was asked about her remarks from earlier in the day, in which she said the presidency shouldnt be given to someone whos at risk of dementia. Do you believe that Donald Trump has dementia currently? Do you believe that the current President Joe Biden has dementia at this moment? NewsNations Blake Burman asked the former U.N. ambassador on The Hill on NewsNation. I think if you ask any doctor, they will tell you that when you are getting in your 80s you are prone to having that. Look, theres a reason pilots cant fly after 65. Theres a reason [in the] military, they make you retire before 65, Haley said. Haley, who is 52, said shes not seeing normal behavior from either contender. Biden is 81, the oldest president to serve in the Oval Office, while Trump is just a few years younger, at 77. We have serious issues. It is not normal to have an open border where we dont stop people from coming in. It is not normal that we focus more on gender pronouns than reading and math. That is what Joe Biden is giving us, she said of the Democratic incumbent. She then swung at the former president, her only rival in the GOP race. But look at what Donald Trumps giving us. It is not normal that you go and say youre gonna ban your opponents supporters and not- not allow them into your group. Its not normal that you mock military members, Haley said. Shes been hitting Trump heavily for his rhetoric on veterans after he made comments about her husband, who is deployed. None of that is normal behavior from either one of them, Haley told NewsNation. Haleys the last candidate standing between Trump and the GOP nod, but shes rejecting calls to get out of the race and continuing to hammer both Trump and Biden, hitting the idea of a Trump-Biden rematch and critiquing her rivals cognitive ability. On Tuesday, Haley vowed to stay in the presidential race despite her poor polling numbers. In her home state of South Carolina, which votes this weekend, Haley is trailing Trump by 30 points, according to the latest polling averages from The Hill-Decision Desk HQ. No matter what happens in the Palmetto States primary, shes said she plans to stay in at least until Super Tuesday, March 5, when more than a dozen states will hold their primaries and caucuses. The Hill and NewsNation are owned by the same parent company, Nexstar Media Group. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Scoop SFA Fund, the main pro-Nikki Haley super PAC, launched a new ad on Wednesday hitting Donald Trump on immigration that will run across South Carolina through the primary. The ad, called Donation, homes in on Trumps past donations to now-Vice President Kamala Harris in 2011 and 2013, contrasting his actions then with an immigration crackdown bill Haley signed in South Carolina that resulted in pushback from the Obama administration. It ends by urging voters to turn out for the South Carolina primary on Saturday, where Haley trails Trump in polling. Donald Trumps latest attack: A big fat lie, a voiceover in the ad, shown first to Semafor, says. The truth? Donald Trump donated to Kamala Harris when Nikki Haley was passing Americas toughest immigration law. SFA Funds ad is the latest in a battle about immigration, which has increasingly become a front-of-mind topic for voters across the country. In recent weeks, Trumps team has attacked Haley on the issue, sending out a press release this week accusing the former South Carolina governor of being weak on immigration, citing comments critical of his Muslim ban in the 2016 cycle and pushing back on labeling undocumented immigrants criminals. In a statement, SFA Fund Spokesperson Preya Samsundar accused Trump of continuing to lie about Nikki Haleys record on immigration and border security to try and sidestep his own shortcomings as president. Notable Nikki Haley pledged to remain in the race past South Carolina in an emotional speech on Tuesday in Greenville. Semafors David Weigel reports on her case to continue taking on Trump, despite little sign of hope for victory. Just days ahead of the rematch between former President Donald Trump and Nikki Haley, this time in the South Carolina Republican primary on Saturday, two of Trump's top aides say he's already well on his way to securing the Republican nomination at least by March 19. In a memo sent out to reporters on Tuesday morning, shortly before Haley gave a speech in which she vowed to continuing running against Trump, his advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles wrote that under what they consider "the most-generous model" for her, Trump is still expected to clinch the delegates needed to win the Republican nomination by March 19 -- two weeks after Super Tuesday, when 15 states vote at once. If not accounting for "the most-generous model" for Haley, the advisers said that Trump is expected to win the nomination one week earlier, by March 12. To do that, he'll need to earn 1,215 of the total 2,429 delegates available. Trump's advisers also urged the Republican National Committee to rally behind him to begin their general election campaign against President Joe Biden and Democrats, even with Haley remaining in the race. Still, Haley during her speech in South Carolina on Tuesday said she's not dropping out soon because she believes her message is important and more voters deserve to be "heard" beyond the three states to cast ballots so far. "Of course, many of the same politicians who now publicly embrace Trump privately dread him," Haley told supporters in Greenville. "They know what a disaster he's been and will continue to be for our party. They're just too afraid to say it out loud." "Well, I'm not afraid to say the hard truths out loud," Haley continued, drawing applause. "I feel no need to kiss the ring. And I have no fear of Trump's retribution. I'm not looking for anything from him. My own political future is of zero concern." PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley speaks at a campaign event, Feb. 19, 2024, in Greer, S.C. (David Yeazell/AP) Trump has already secured 63 delegates from Iowa, New Hampshire, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Nevada and Haley has just 17 delegates -- and 50 delegates are up for grabs in the upcoming South Carolina Republican primary. The following week, Trump and Haley will be competing for 189 delegates from Michigan, Idaho, Missouri, North Dakota and Washington, D.C., and on Super Tuesday on March 5, they'll compete for 874 from 16 states and U.S. territories. Trump is ahead of Haley in nearly all of these states, according to 538's polling averages, though that includes states that don't have up-to-date polls and 538 isn't tracking every state. LaCivita and Wiles in their memo claimed that under the "the most-generous model" for Haley, they expect Trump to earn 114 delegates in the week following the South Carolina primary, 773 delegates from Super Tuesday and an additional 192 delegates the two weeks after that, when primary contests in key states like Georgia, Arizona and Florida take place. The next step for the Trump campaign, they wrote, is to claim Haley is "not newsworthy" and for the RNC to become "one with the Donald J. Trump for President campaign," a position that Haley has pushed back on as anti-democratic. "We don't anoint kings in this country," she said on Tuesday. "We have elections." PHOTO: Former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures to his supporters, as he departs for his second civil trial after E. Jean Carroll accused Trump of raping her decades ago, outside a Trump Tower, Jan. 25, 2024, in New York. (Eduardo Munoz/Reuters) LaCivita and Wiles claimed the campaign and the RNC should begin coordinating "convention planning, fundraising, strategy, and state party tactics" with the other campaign arms of the national party as soon as possible. LaCivita and Wiles also attacked Haley for courting non-Republican voters in primaries where that is allowed, likening it to "hijack[ing] GOP contests." "The results of 5 elections overwhelmingly sent an unmistaken message: Nikki Haley doesn't represent Republicans any more than Joe Biden does," they wrote. ABC News' Hannah Demissie, Alexandra Hutzler and Nicholas Kerr contributed to this report. As Haley vows to fight on, Trump's team says he's weeks away from clinching Republican nomination originally appeared on abcnews.go.com BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) The Hamburg Police Department said the officer who fatally shot a Jamestown woman earlier this month after an altercation inside a residence remains on paid administrative leave while the attorney generals investigation remains ongoing. Police said the officer is a six-year veteran of the department. He fatally shot a 36-year-old Jamestown woman, who police said was burglarizing a home on McKinley Parkway around 11 a.m. on Feb. 2. She also allegedly broke into a home on Willet Road and stabbed a person in a medical van on I-90 earlier that morning. Hamburg has just not released the name of the officer who shot and killed a Jamestown woman earlier this month: pic.twitter.com/sayd55Jy3f Daniel Telvock (@DanielTelvock) February 20, 2024 All fatal police shootings trigger an automatic investigation by the New York Attorney General. Hamburg PD said all three officers who initially responded to the burglary call were interviewed by the AGs office last week. When police entered the residence, they found the woman inside the bathroom of the home, where the altercation ensued. During a Feb. 6 press conference, Hamburg police said she resisted violently when they attempted to handcuff her and she grabbed a penlight, making stabbing and slashing movements with the object and striking an officer in the leg and face. Partially due to the area being dimly lit, officers mistook the penlight for a knife. Sister of Jamestown woman fatally shot by Hamburg police arrested for alleged stabbing Latest Local News Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was killed on the set of Rust in October 2021 Jury selection has begun in the trial of armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed for the fatal 2021 shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Ms Hutchins died when a gun went off on the set of Rust, a forthcoming Western film, near Santa Fe in October 2021. Ms Gutierrez-Reed has pleaded not guilty to charges of involuntary manslaughter and tampering with evidence. She faces up to three years in prison if convicted. As the armourer, she was in charge of firearms on the film set. Ms Gutierrez-Reed has tried to have the case dismissed, but a judge ruled last week it could proceed. Opening arguments are expected to begin later this week in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In January, Alec Baldwin, the movie's star, was charged with involuntary manslaughter over Ms Hutchins' death. The fresh charge came after previous charges against him were dropped last April when New Mexico prosecutors said new information had come to light which required further investigation. Mr Baldwin was charged again after local prosecutors said "additional facts" had emerged from forensic tests on the weapon used in the shooting. The actor entered a not guilty plea on 31 January. No trial date has been scheduled in his case. An aerial view of the film set on Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe Ms Hutchins was killed when a prop gun held by Mr Baldwin went off at point-blank range as they were rehearsing a scene on the Bonanza Creek Ranch set of Rust. Mr Baldwin, 65, had been practising firing a pistol for a scene. He has maintained he did not pull the trigger of the Colt .45 pistol and only drew back its hammer. He has also argued he is not at fault for Ms Hutchins' death because he did not know the weapon contained live rounds and because no live ammunition was supposed to be on set. Actor Alec Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter last month It has not been officially established how live ammunition got on to the film set. Ms Gutierrez-Reed was first charged with manslaughter early last year, with evidence tampering charges added when she allegedly refused to provide more information about the live rounds. Rust resumed filming in early 2023 but the movie is yet to be released. Chinese-constructed cargo center helps growth of exports in Uganda Xinhua) 09:01, February 21, 2024 KAMPALA, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese-constructed cargo center at Uganda's Entebbe International Airport is aiding the growth of cargo exports from the East African country, a state-run air transport regulator said Tuesday. Vianney Luggya, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) spokesperson, told Xinhua by telephone that the new structure has a bigger space compared to the old one. "We started using the new cargo center in 2021. This is the third year of use. Definitely, it is facilitating better because it has the capacity to handle 100,000 tonnes of cargo a year," Luggya said. "Where we were, the facilities were not only old but also constrained in terms of space. In the new cargo center, we have more space and capacity," he said, adding that the old facility was handling less than 50,000 tonnes per year. Statistics shared by UCAA indicate that the cargo center handled 39,000 tonnes of export cargo in 2021 compared to more than 40,000 tonnes of export cargo handled last year. "The only part of cargo that has grown is exports. We have more exports than imports. Even the January figures show that exports have grown," Luggya said. The UCAA January report indicates that Entebbe International Airport handled 3,604 tonnes of export cargo compared to 3,555 tonnes of export cargo in December. According to the official, most of Uganda's exports are largely fresh produce, including flowers, fish, vegetables, and fruits, with Europe being the major destination. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. When it comes to pursuits and tactical vehicle interventions, or TVIs, 2023 was a record year for Arkansas State Police. Its a record that Colonel Mike Hagar is not proud of, but strongly defends. We didnt ask for any of this, Hagar said. Weve never initiated a single pursuit. Not one. We just respond to them when someone knowingly commits a felonious act. According to the most recent statistics, Arkansas state troopers were involved in a record 620 pursuits in 2023, a 53% increase compared to 2019, which had 404 pursuits. Hagar says part of the reason for the uptick is because there is a systemic problem right now in our criminal justice system. He believes suspects who flee instead of pulling over, realize they may just get away with a lesser charge or be released because there is no room in jail. There has to be a consequence for a crime and Its very frustrating, Hagar told FOX 16 News. Our guys are out there putting themselves in harms way repeatedly. Attorney who sued Arkansas State Police over PIT maneuver discusses TVI done in error He also pointed out that even though the number of pursuits has increased significantly, the ASP is doing nothing different. Instead, Hagar contends that its just that pursuits and TVIs are being seen more often especially online. Hagar explained that when it comes to pursuits, troopers are trained to focus on what is commonly referred to as the priority for life. Simply put, troopers are trained to put the lives of civilians at the top of their list, followed by the trooper and then the life of the suspect. Its our job to stop that pursuit as quickly as possible, and the best tool we have to that right now is TVI, he said. According to state police, 2023 was a record year for TVIs. In fact, statistics show that troopers performed 251 TVIs, a 202% increase compared to 2019, which had 83. The controversial tactic also comes with significant risks. For example, in 2023 six suspects who were involved in pursuits died, the most ever since 2016. According to state police, of those six deaths, two were a direct result of TVI. We are humans. We are not always going to get it right, Hagar said. People are not going to get it right and were always going to hear about it when it goes wrong and we address those, but you have to remember that there are hundreds that go right. Suspect driver dies after Arkansas State Police trooper uses Tactical Vehicle Intervention during chase Because of the heightened awareness and how high the stakes are, state police require all troopers to undergo intensive training every year at the agencys track at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock. Troopers must first get behind the wheel of a cruiser and navigate their way through a tight course of twists and turns lined with orange cones. The troopers are timed and given a passing grade if they are successful. Those who pass then head over to a 2.8-mile training track where the stakes are higher, as is the speed. The training course consists of winding roads and straightaways that are similar to what a trooper would encounter in the real world. Troopers reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour and must safely navigate and complete the course in a specific amount of time. Once they do that, they are then told to head over to the TVI Pad, where palms can get sweaty, hearts beat faster and the adrenaline kicks into overdrive. Arkansas State Police identify man killed in weekend interstate Tactical Vehicle Intervention To successfully perform a TVI, a trooper must first pull up to the right or left of the target vehicle at the same rate of speed. When the trooper feels it is safe, they hit the rear bumper or panel of the suspects vehicle. The impact is not violent, but it is enough to cause the suspects vehicles tires to break contact with the pavement, spinning the car away from the troopers cruiser. In a perfect-case scenario, the trooper would then turn around and position their patrol car to either provide cover or prevent the driver from getting away, but Hagar says that before any trooper performs a TVI, they must consider several crucial factors, including: The reason for the pursuit. Is it a simple traffic violation or is the suspect armed and wanted for a felony? The surrounding environment. Is it safe to perform a TVI? Are there any kids or hostages in the suspects car? How fast is the suspect going? They have full authority. They dont need permission from their supervisor, Hagar said. When they go to work, and theyre engaged in a pursuit, they have full authority to stop that pursuit and, in fact, theyve been instructed to stop that pursuit as fast as possible. To pass the TVI Pad test, a state trooper must successfully perform more than a dozen TVIs. If they dont, its back to square one. While performing a TVI on a training track is one thing, performing one in a real-life scenario is another, and Hagar noted that it doesnt always work. WEB EXTRA: Go behind the wheel with Kevin Kelly as he experiences a TVI The colonel points out that there have been several instances in which the troopers call off the pursuit because the dangers outweigh the risks. According to state police, troopers voluntarily ended 98 pursuits in 2023 because it was too dangerous. If were as much a danger to the community as the suspect fleeing, if we dont have a way to stop that pursuit, then we are going to disengage, Hagar said. Man dead after police chase on I-40 in Arkansas He also has a message for anyone who might want to make the decision to flee. Its absolutely not worth it. Its just not worth it. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com. A gavel sitting on the desk inside the Senate on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 at South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. Update 9 a.m.: A House committee voted Friday to table SB 13 at the request of the prime sponsors. House Majority Leader Will Mortenson in his comments said many South Dakotans wanted to vote in primary elections for attorney general and secretary of state, but he was respecting the will of the sponsors. PIERRE Despite being described as a hijacked bill in committee and an attempt to table it on the Senate floor, the Senate approved changing the process of how certain candidates can be nominated for statewide office Tuesday. Its the third time during the 2024 Legislative session, and fourth time since 2023, that a member of the legislature has attempted to change the process for nominating candidates for attorney general and secretary of state from a convention to a primary election and letting the governor pick their lieutenant governor. One bill and one resolution died in the House. The third bill, SB 13, passed the Senate with a 20-13 vote. Originally, SB 13, sponsored by Sen. Jim Mehlhaff, R-Pierre, would have had the gubernatorial candidate pick their running mate. But an amendment introduced by Sen. Lee Schoenbeck, R-Watertown, in Senate State Affairs on Feb. 14 turned the bill into the form debated Tuesday: allowing the lieutenant governor nomination process to change, and allowing primary elections for the attorney general and secretary of state of South Dakota. If a party couldnt field a candidate for the primary election, then the party could fall back on the convention process. It was a way to get Democrats on board, though none of them spoke on the bill Tuesday. More: Third time isn't the charm for primary nomination process for South Dakota AG, SOS Schoenbeck, the Senate Pro Tempore, pointed to the poor vetting during the 2022 GOP convention process, when days before, it had been revealed during the impeachment trial of former Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg that the then-head of the Department of Criminal Investigation, David Natvig, had interfered in the investigation. Two days later, those delegates at the state convention tried to nominate and throw out Marty Jackley in favor of the person we all heard was engaged in criminal conduct, interfering with a criminal investigation, Schoenbeck said. At a minimum, its not good vetting. Senators in favor of the primary election process said it was a way to return the vote to South Dakotans and trust them, over party insiders, to vet candidates. It takes some power away from the political elites and returns it back to the same exact voters that were good enough to select you on a ballot, Sen. Mike Rohl, R-Aberdeen, said, arguing against an amendment to the bill. Every single one of us got elected by these exact same voters that right now this amendment is saying are not smart enough to pick their own attorney general and secretary of state. Primary turnout among voters remains low, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center, with 21.3% of eligible voters in the nation going to the polls. More: Latest Amtrak study maps include potential routes through Sioux Falls, Rapid City But those opposed to the bill, such as Sen. John Wiik, R-Big Stone City, and GOP chairman, continued to sound the drum that the bill wasnt necessary to solve an internal problem. We have a process and its being worked through, he said. Schoenbeck noted the GOP had a chance to solve the issue over a week ago at a scheduled meeting of the central party committee but were unable to get it done. I know for a fact that there are several members of the House that have changed their position since the carnage that happened at the state central committee meeting, he said, arguing that the House should have another opportunity to vote on the bill that the body had previously killed. SB 13 now heads to the House and will be heard in the coming days after Crossover Day Wednesday. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: SD Senate hears bill on changing party nomination process to primary Feltham has concerning levels of violence and unsanitary conditions, a report said A change of culture is needed at a west London young offenders institution after concerning levels of violence were found, a prison inspector said. HM Inspectorate of Prisons said HMP Feltham B in Hounslow had "failed to make significant progress" since previous inspections in 2019 and 2023. It comes after the prison increased its capacity by 40% to accommodate a growing number of inmates nationally. The Prison Service said it was already taking action to address the concerns. The prison now not only holds sentenced young offenders aged between 18 and 21 but has also become a category C training jail, holding inmates up to the age of 30. HM Inspectorate of Prisons' report said the change was "necessary" to meet the demand of increasing prison populations, but that a "lack of planning" meant the site did not meet the needs of its new population. The report said while assaults between prisoners had dropped by 47% since the previous inspection, there was "still a concern about violence against staff". It said levels of violence were "too high and prisoners had poor perceptions of their safety". "Leaders, staff and prisoners were over-reliant on keeping prisoners apart rather than addressing underlying causes of violence. Investigations into incidents were often delayed and sometimes of poor quality," it said. The report also said toilets and sinks were "rusty and filthy" and prisoners were not routinely provided with cleaning materials to keep themselves and their cells clean. In his summary of the report Charlie Taylor, HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, said: "Local leaders will be unable to make significant progress without substantial support from HMPPS leaders. "This will need to focus on increasing the amount of work at the site, changing the culture and addressing the shortfalls in the probation service in London." A Prison Service spokesperson said "decisive action" was already being taken to address the concerns in the report, including investing in maintenance and undertaking "vital refurbishments to improve living conditions". "We are also increasing access to education and thanks to the efforts of our hard-working staff assault rates have halved," the spokesperson added. In the past 12 months the inmate population in England and Wales has increased by 2,700 to 85,000 - the UK total is expected to hit 100,000 by 2026. England and Wales has the highest imprisonment rate in Europe with 136 jailed per 100,000 people. Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk Philippine police have refuted social media posts that warned certain public landmarks in the southern Philippine city of Davao would be bombed in early February 2024 as "retaliation" for a rally held there by supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte A screenshot of what appears to be a private message written in the Visayan language was shared on Facebook on January 30, 2024. It falsely warns that various locations in Davao, the biggest city in the southern Philippines, "will be bombed this Sunday". "To all residents of Davao, this source was from a reliable friend who lived in Jolo, Sulo (sic)...Brother, please be on alert there in Davao," the text begins. It goes on to list a bank, church, market, transport terminal, and shopping malls as apparent targets for the attacks. The caption claims the bombings would be a "retaliation" for a rally held on January 28 by former president Rodrigo Duterte's supporters in his stronghold of Davao city, where he previously served as mayor (archived link). Screenshot of false post taken on February 19, 2024 AFP reported that during the rally, Duterte launched a foul-mouthed tirade against his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos, over a campaign to change the country's constitution, in the latest sign of a breakdown in relations between their powerful families. Davao City Police Office said the alleged bomb threat -- shared widely on Facebook here, here, and here -- was "false". In a statement shared on its Facebook page, the force warned that "anyone caught and traced spreading irrelevant information concerning terrorist acts and bomb threats will be held liable under Revised Penal Code Article 154 (archived link)." "We humbly request (sic) not to spread fake news or believe unreliable sources," the office added. Captain Hazel Tuazon, spokesperson for the Davao City Police Office, told AFP on February 20 that it had not received any official intelligence reports of a bomb threat in the city since the beginning of the year. "We are thankful because as of today, we have not received any security threats in Davao city," she said. Recycled message Keyword searches on Facebook found that the same message was shared in posts in September 2016, one day after a bomb tore through a bustling night market in Davao city (archived link). Tuazon said no bombing had occurred in the city since then. The blast killed at least 14 people and led to then-president Duterte imposing a "state of lawlessness" in the country (archived link). Militant attacks on buses, Catholic churches and public markets have been a feature of decades-long unrest on Mindanao island, where Davao city is situated. The misleading bomb threat message recirculated online again in December 2017 after a large fire broke out in a shopping mall, killing nearly 40 people (archived link). Hoax bombing warnings in the southern Philippines repeatedly circulate on social media and have been debunked by AFP previously. Philippine fact-checking organisation Vera Files also fact-checked the latest hoax warning here. In a win for social justice advocates in the workplace, the National Labor Relations Board ruled Wednesday that big-box retailer Home Depot broke the law by requiring workers to remove Black Lives Matter insignia from their uniforms and punishing one for refusing to do so. The boards majority wrote in their decision that employees sporting the letters BLM on their attire as they pushed management on race issues amounted to protected concerted activity, and was therefore shielded by the law. They ordered Home Depot to offer reinstatement and back pay to a worker whod resigned rather than remove their BLM marking. The NLRB enforces collective bargaining law on private-sector employers, and its five-member board in Washington serves as a high court for resolving labor disputes. (At the moment, there are only four members.) The BLM ruling falls in line with the boards more progressive reading of the law under a Democratic majority shaped by President Joe Biden. One employee was told that if they wore 'BLM' on their uniforms, then management would have to let others wear swastikas, according to trial testimony. The boards lone Republican member dissented. According to the NLRB decision, a Home Depot manager had told the workers they had to take off their BLM insignia because it conflicted with the companys dress code. One employee was told that if they wore BLM on their uniforms, then management would have to let others wear swastikas, according to trial testimony. A Home Depot spokesperson said the company disagrees with the decision. The Home Depot is fully committed to diversity and respect for all people. We dont tolerate any kind of workplace harassment or discrimination, the spokesperson said. The company declined to say whether it plans to appeal the ruling to federal court. The labor boards decision reversed an earlier ruling by an administrative law judge who heard the case and determined that the workers BLM protest wasnt protected because it wasnt specifically tied to issues at their workplace. Instead, the judge found, Black Lives Matter served as a political umbrella for societal concerns, rather than for a particular work grievance. We reject that reasoning, the board members wrote. Neither the origins of BLM messaging, nor its primary use, dictate how the BLM marking may be used or understood in a particular workplace context (or, indeed, in a broader setting). A Home Depot store is seen on Feb. 20 in Austin, Texas. A Home Depot store is seen on Feb. 20 in Austin, Texas. The Home Depot dispute arose at a store in the Minneapolis suburb of New Brighton, Minnesota, in the months following the 2020 murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police officers. Floyds death sparked Black Lives Matter protests around the country. Workers at the New Brighton store were dealing with what they said were several racist incidents at the time. One co-worker had exhibited racial bias toward customers and fellow employees, the NLRB decision states, to the point where other workers would intercept customers of color so they wouldnt have to deal with the employee in question. Black History Month displays in the store had been vandalized, and some workers felt that managers didnt sufficiently address what had happened. The worker who was unlawfully punished, Antonio Morales, pressed management on the vandalism incident and wound up getting reprimanded for wearing BLM marked on a work apron. The Home Depot case is one of several before the board involving racial justice messages at work. This was the first time that a manager or supervisor had said anything about the BLM marking even though Morales had worn it continuously for the prior 5 months, the decision states. The Home Depot case is one of several before the board involving racial justice messages at work. In December, one of the agencys administrative law judges ruled that Whole Foods did not break the law when it told workers to remove their Black Lives Matter gear, saying the protest wasnt directly tied to their working conditions. The fact that BLM may be a movement of great significance to African Americans, and that its goals are valid, does not mean that a rule prohibiting the displaying of such messages at work is racist, as some employees implied, the judge wrote. That case is on appeal before the board in Washington. Related... AFP reported that Juan Orlando Hernandez looked nervous and constantly rubbed his hands together The former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, has appeared in a New York courtroom where he stands accused of protecting drug traffickers. Prosecutors say he ran the Central American nation like a "narco-state", accepting millions of dollars in bribes from cocaine traffickers. In exchange, he allegedly tipped them off about planned raids and even ordered the army to protect them. Mr Hernandez has denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty. He is facing three charges: one of conspiring to import cocaine to the US and two of carrying weapons "in furtherance of the cocaine importation conspiracy". If convicted of all three, he could face life in prison. Mr Hernandez's fall from grace has been swift. In 2019, then President Donald Trump thanked Juan Orlando Hernandez for "working with the United States very closely". "We're stopping drugs at a level that has never happened," the US president said at an event both he and Mr Hernandez attended in Florida. Mr Hernandez in turn thanked President Trump and the American people "for the support they have given us in the firm fight against drug trafficking". "My commitment has been clear... we purged the police, we built maximum security prisons, we managed to pass many laws to strengthen the legal framework for the fight against organised crime and the results are tangible: in six years we have dropped from 87% of drug trafficking through Honduran territory to only 3%," Mr Hernandez. Just over two years later - and only weeks after he had left office - Mr Hernandez was arrested at his home in the Honduran capital, Tegucigalpa. In his indictment, he was accused by US prosecutors as having "partnered with some of the world's most prolific narcotics traffickers to build a corrupt and brutally violent empire based on the illegal trafficking of tonnes of cocaine to the United States". He was quickly extradited to New York, where he has been in held in pre-trial detention. Prosecutors allege his links with drug trafficking date back to 2004, long before he became president. Juan Orlando Hernandez was president from 2014 to 2022 They say drug traffickers paid Mr Hernandez millions of dollars in bribes to allow cocaine to be smuggled from Colombia and Venezuela through Honduras on to the US. Among the drug traffickers Juan Orlando Hernandez is accused of protecting is his younger brother Tony, who was sentenced in 2012 to life in prison by a court in the US. In one of the most eye-catching allegations made during the trial of the younger Hernandez, prosecutors alleged that Mexican drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman had given Tony Hernandez $1m (792,400) as a bribe for Juan Orlando Hernandez. The ex-president has vehemently denied the allegations, stating in a public letter he sent from prison that he is "the victim of a vendetta and a conspiracy by organised crime and political enemies". The judge in the case said the trial was likely to take two to three weeks. Tagged adult horseshoe crabs released into Tung Chung Bay, marking the initiation of the first underwater automated acoustic telemetry system for a pilot tracking study of endangered horseshoe crabs, in Hong Kong Tagged adult horseshoe crabs released into Tung Chung Bay, marking the initiation of the first underwater automated acoustic telemetry system for a pilot tracking study of endangered horseshoe crabs, in Hong Kong By Joyce Zhou HONG KONG (Reuters) - Hong Kong conservationists on Wednesday began underwater tracking of endangered horseshoe crabs, which date back to before the dinosaurs, in a bid to help them survive the perils of modern life. The spine-tailed sea creatures named for the shape of their body shells face numerous threats, including the loss of nursery beaches for baby crabs, entanglement in fishing nets and human exploitation for food. They are known as "living fossils", serving an important role in coastal ecology, the understanding of evolutionary science as well as being a major food source for wading birds. Of four species worldwide, the Chinese horseshoe crab (tachypleus tridentatus) and the mangrove horseshoe crab (carcinoscorpis rotundicauda) are found in Hong Kong coastal waters. The Ocean Park Conservation Foundation (OPCFHK) said it had initiated the first underwater automated acoustic "telemetry system" for a pilot tracking study. The team released an initial batch of tagged adult crabs into Tung Chung Bay, near the airport, on Wednesday and will track and investigate movement and breeding patterns. "Our commitment is to ensure the continuous breeding and survival of local horseshoe crabs in the wild," said Howard Chuk, foundation director of OPCFHK. The local population of juvenile horseshoe crabs is estimated to be less than 10,000, while data on the adult population is inadequate, making it difficult to accurately estimate their numbers, OPCFHK said. Rising water levels due to global warming could also exacerbate loss of habitat with Hong Kong's beaches at risk of being submerged in future, said Professor Cheung Siu-gin, associate professor at the Department of Chemistry at City University, Hong Kong. "The measurement of water temperature in this study can also indirectly monitor the situation of global warming." (Writing by Farah Master; editing by Nick Macfie) Wednesday marked five years since North Carolina Republican Mark Harris called for a new election after a ballot fraud scandal brought his down. Now, Harris is running for Congress again. And for the first time since Channel 9s Joe Bruno broke the news of the fraud, Harris sat down with him for an interview. On this day 5 years ago, Mark Harris called for a new election after an election fraud scandal brought down his. Now hes running for Congress again. For the first time since I broke the news of the fraud, hes sitting down with me for an interview. Tonight on @wsoctv at 5/6 pic.twitter.com/yEGeo9Py2D Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) February 21, 2024 Harris told Bruno that since the investigation, his feelings about what happened have changed. Do you accept that your race in 2018 was tainted to the point where a new election was necessary? Bruno asked. US House District 9 race investigation: How we got here No, Harris said. And I say no based on the fact that there were not a number of ballots. That would have changed the outcome. That excuse doesnt matter in the eyes of the law. It says the North Carolina State Board of Elections can order a new race when irregularities or improprieties occurred to such an extent that they taint the results of the entire election and cast doubt on its fairness. It was that doubt that had Harris himself calling for a new election in 2019. GF Default - Mark Harris, citing health concerns, won't run in new US House District 9 election I believe a new election should be called, he said that year. It has become clear to me that the publics confidence in the 9th Districts general election has been undermined to an extent that a new election is warranted. That call for a new race followed a public and emotional deep dive into the District 9 election fraud scandal. Our reporting showed Harris campaign employee McCrae Dowless was paying workers to pick up absentee ballots. Its a practice known as ballot harvesting, and its illegal in North Carolina. READ MORE: DA: No evidence to charge Mark Harris in NC District 9 election fraud investigation Harris own son, John, testified that he warned his father about Dowless. I thought everything McCrae Dowless was doing was illegal, and I was right, John Harris said in 2019. Bruno asked Harris about his thoughts now on his sons testimony. GF Default - Mark Harris' son claims father was warned about Bladen County political operative On the stand and under oath, you said your son was right to have concerns about McCrae Dowless. Are you saying he is wrong now? Bruno asked. No, I said in 2018 or 2019, obviously he had concerns that proved to be accurate. And I said that then. Im not saying that his concerns are wrong, Harris said. Do I wish I had listened to him? Ive said time and again, absolutely. But again, if everybody understands the facts, they understand that I was receiving recommendation from folks that lived in that county that had worked with this individual and elected officials, Harris went on to say. And so my son had never been to Bladen County, he had never met any of these folks, Harris added. And so weighing out those decisions, sure, in hindsight, I wish I had listened to him at that point. But again, that doesnt change the reality. ALSO READ: Mark Harris announces campaign for Congress following District 9 controversy I still get a sense of defense from you, though, about McCrae Dowless, Bruno said. And Im just wondering, for someone who orchestrated all this, he orchestrated the scheme that ended up bringing down your win. How can you still stand by him? I wont say that Im standing by him, Harris replied. But Joe, from the beginning, during the beginning of when all of this began to break, I began to ask, Please help me understand what happened. And I still dont think we ever got the opportunity to fully know what happened. Is the reason were hearing different answers from you now, compared to 2019, the fact that youre not under oath right now? Bruno asked. No, absolutely not. I mean, youre hearing different answers based on the fact more information came out. Thats the bottom line, Harris responded. Dowless died in April 2022 after a battle with cancer. He was 65. He denied a plea deal in November 2021 that would have required him to spend a year in prison and five years on probation. Dowless was scheduled to go on trial in the summer of 2022. Video below: It wont happen again Now, Harris is running for the Republican nomination for the U.S. House in North Carolinas 8th Congressional District. Bruno asked him about earning the trust of his district in the wake of the District 9 scandal. How can voters trust you? Bruno asked. I think voters trust me based on my life. And I think voters can trust me, based on the 35 years of experience that Ive had as a pastor and a leader, and an individual that has spent my life working with churches, Harris said. The fact that again, at the end of the day, when it was all said and done, that they did not find any reason that I was involved in any way, shape, or form. I made a bad hire, if you want to say that. The bad hire Harris is referencing is the late McCrae Dowless. He and 10 other people were charged, but Harris was not. Wake County DA Lorrin Freeman -- she praised your humility for calling for a new election. This is when she cleared you of criminal wrongdoing, Bruno said. So why not just say, Hey, listen, guys, the DA cleared me. But I recognize plenty of other people were criminally charged. I recognize that there were issues in this election. I didnt do them. I was criminally cleared. But I get it. Im sorry. And it wont happen again. Well, I can certainly say, Im sorry the whole thing happened and it wont happen again, Harris said. But I do think that its important to point out the facts that Im pointing out. And calling out the reality that was, Im very grateful to Lorrin Freeman for her statement. Are you sorry? Bruno asked. Am I sorry that we all went through that? Absolutely, Harris said. >> In the video at the top of this story, see the full, in-depth version of Harris interview. (WATCH PREVIOUS: Channel 9 uncovers similarities between absentee ballots in U.S. House District 9 race) SIGNIFICANT PAYMENTS Republicans get Biden's brother to testify in impeachment probe, using family name for profit. Continue reading FACE OFF Trump pitches challenge to Biden during Fox News town hall: 'I'll do it right now.' Continue reading EXTENSIVE CONTACTS New wrinkle unveiled in saga of FBI informant accused of lying about Biden's Ukraine ties. 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Original article source: House committee to hear testimony from James Biden, Trump challenges Biden to debate and more top headlines (Bloomberg) -- A vote on the Israel-Hamas war triggered chaos in the UKs House of Commons with the Scottish National Party walking out in protest and Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks Conservatives also refusing to cast their ballots. Most Read from Bloomberg The disarray was triggered after Speaker Lindsay Hoyle controversially allowed both Keir Starmers Labour Party and Sunaks Tories to propose changes to the SNPs call for a cease-fire in Gaza. The differences between the three parties are marginal all want an end to the fighting but with different caveats applied yet some MPs were furious at a procedural shift they saw as favoring Labour. Hoyles move meant Starmer avoided what threatened to be a destabilizing rebellion by members of his party, because it meant his MPs could back his carefully chosen wording rather than language put forward by the SNP. Starmer has been battling to keep his party united since Hamass attacks in October, as he tries to balance Labours traditionally strong support among British Muslims with a push to shed accusations of antisemitism under his predecessor and present his party as a government-in-waiting. Labour has a 20-point lead in polls ahead of a UK election expected later this year. But while his call for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire was ultimately passed by the Commons, the events late Wednesday in the chamber meant the Labour leader wont be celebrating. Instead, Conservative and SNP MPs roared accusations that Hoyle acted to spare Starmers blushes. I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologize for how its ended up, Hoyle told the House of Commons, amid calls from some SNP MPs for him to resign. As is often the case in Westminster, the furor over an arcane rule or convention that wasnt followed also masked a deeper political motive. A similar vote brought to Parliament in November by the SNP which is trying to fend off a resurgent Labour in Scotland ahead of the UK election triggered a Labour rebellion that undermined Starmers position. So ahead of Wednesdays follow-up vote, there was intense pressure on him to come up with a form of words that would keep his MPs onside. The solution was to call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, while also calling for hostages held by Hamas to be released and for the peace process to be revived. The flaw was that Starmers motion might not be put to a vote, under a convention that opposition parties cannot try to amend a proposal put forward by another opposition party if the government also tries to do so. It was the perfect scenario for the SNP and Conservatives trying to put Labour in a bind, because it meant Labour MPs who wanted to express their wishes for a cease-fire would have had to side with one of their positions. Until Hoyle stepped in. Instead of a straight vote on the SNPs position, the Speaker said MPs would first come to a decision on Starmers. In simple terms, that meant that if the House of Commons voted for Labours position, that would supersede the SNPs chance to test support for its own. It was a spat with huge political consequences that hinged on the order of the votes. Hoyle said he intervened to allow MPs to consider the widest possible range of options. He also referred to security threats facing MPs from constituents. But the SNP was furious. The partys leader in Westminster, Stephen Flynn, accused Hoyle of handing its allotted day in Parliament to Labour. I will take significant convincing that your position is not now intolerable, he said. By refusing to take part, Sunaks Conservatives also avoided the scenario where they would have to vote against a cease-fire whether Labours version or the SNPs to avoid supporting an opposition party, despite the fact that many Tory MPs expressed their desire to see an end to the fighting. Labours shadow Commons leader, Lucy Powell, accused the government of pulling its own motion because the Conservatives didnt have the numbers present to pass it. Last time I looked, the government benches had a majority in this House, she said. So perhaps we have to ask the question whether or not they do still command a majority in this House this evening, or whether they are trying to hide behind some other reason? Starmers decision to explicitly call for an immediate cease-fire for the first time this week in contrast to his previous call for a sustainable cease-fire is a slightly different emphasis compared to the governments position, which was to call for an immediate humanitarian pause. This is a moment when the whole House can come together, Labours shadow foreign secretary David Lammy had told MPs. Let us be clear, whether from the government benches or the opposition benches, that we all agree that the time for a cease-fire has come, to end the bloodshed and suffering, and to allow a sustained effort to salvage the hope of a two-state solution. Yet in the UKs pre-election politics, the smallest differences are opportunities for point-scoring, which is why during the debate on a non-binding vote on a cease-fire, some MPs lamented the bigger picture was completely overlooked. The focus must be on the bloodshed and slaughter in both Israel and Gaza, SNP MP Patricia Gibson said. Some of the antics, games and name-calling we have seen today in this chamber paint this chamber in an unedifying light. The votes came days after Israel warned it could launch an offensive in the Rafah area of Gaza where some 1.5 million Palestinian people are sheltering next month unless all hostages are released. Lammy said this would be a humanitarian disaster, a moral catastrophe and a strategic mistake. (Updates with comment from Labours Powell in 15th paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. In the wake of the mass shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade, Democrats in the Missouri House of Representatives filed 37 identical resolutions seeking the ability to enact local gun laws that supersede those at the state level. House Minority Leader Crystal Quade addressed reporters Monday to preview the resolutions, expressing her disgust with the lack of action from Republican counterparts. I don't expect the Republicans to do anything about this, Quade said. They haven't for years. The Missouri House Democratic Caucus addresses reporters about giving local municipalities the authority to regulate guns in their city. Minority House Leader Crystal Quade delivered remarks. Currently, Missouri law prohibits local municipalities from enacting gun laws tailored to individual jurisdictions. The resolutions filed would allow voters to decide whether they want cities to be able to enact their own gun laws. Republican state legislators have shown no intention of passing even the most common-sense gun safety measures in the 20-plus years they have held the majority, Quade said. As with so many issues where they have failed to show leadership, it falls to the people to make things right. Voters should have the ultimate say in giving their local leaders the power to protect their citizens when the state lawmakers in control refuse to act. There are currently initiative petitions filed that seek to accomplish the same goal, though it is unknown where those stand in respect to getting enough signatures to make the ballot this year. Members of the Missouri House Democratic Caucus line up outside the assistant clerk's office to file the Local Empowerment on Firearms Act.' Quade recognizes that the Democratic Party is in the minority in the state legislature, but she and her fellow members of the House Democratic Caucus feel that they owe it to their constituents to fight for tougher gun regulations. As a super, super-minority party, there isn't a lot we can do when it comes to policy, Quade said. We can get loud and we can draw attention to this. House Republicans, including House Speaker Dean Plocher, said on several occasions that laws dont prevent tragedies like the one that occurred in Kansas City because criminals dont obey the laws. Quade thinks that mindset would negate the very purpose of their elected positions. What the hell are we doing as lawmakers? Quade said. Why are we here at all? The Missouri House Democratic Caucus addresses reporters about giving local municipalities the authority to regulate guns in their city. Minority House Leader Crystal Quade delivered remarks. The Missouri House also decided to stop pursuing the passage of two bills expanding firearms access, including one that would have exempted guns and ammunition from state and local taxes and another that would have allowed guns on public transit and in churches, while also lowering the age to get a concealed carry permit. House Majority Leader Jonathan Patterson indicated that this decision was made after Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas expressed opposition to the bill. The thing that really struck me was that we offered the Kansas City mayor thoughts and prayers, and then how could we take up a bill that he specifically has said that Kansas City does not want? Patterson said. I just thought that it would be very disrespectful to do that. Quade, however, felt that there were other motivations for not considering the legislation. I think the real answer is that they know that if they move those bills right now that the public will freak out, Quade said. They know that we will freak out. The Missouri House Democratic Caucus addresses reporters about giving local municipalities the authority to regulate guns in their city. Minority House Leader Crystal Quade delivered remarks. During Monday afternoons full session of the Missouri House, representatives passed an omnibus public safety bill, which some Republicans called common sense gun reform. The bill contained Blairs Law, which would prohibit celebratory gunfire. Democrats thought that this public safety law didnt go far enough and spoke emotionally about their personal experiences sheltering themselves and children during the Super Bowl parade. Quade also attended the parade, and she recounted the complete terror she felt and observed as she took shelter in a bathroom. We put all the children behind us and stood in front of them while they were crying, Quade said. The look of fear that these children had is something that I will never forget. More: Gun laws in Missouri: Who can buy, own, carry and sell firearms in the state? However, Quade expects this to play out as it has in previous years when there was a tragedy related to a mass shooting. What's going to happen is we're going to stand here, and we're going to yell over the next few weeks, Quade said. We're going to cause as much chaos as we can to try to get them to draw attention to this and do something. They're going to offer thoughts and prayers, and say Now's not the time, and then move on about their day. She feels that there is only one way that things will change in that response. Whats it going to take? Quade said. It's going to take, to the question before, to elect different people who actually listen and aren't worried about their next paycheck or who's financing their campaigns, but actually listen to the voters and people who want change. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri Democrats file resolutions to allow cities to regulate guns House Oversight Democrats are pressing pharmaceutical companies on the nationwide shortages of a number of drugs in a new investigation announced Wednesday. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), the ranking member of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, led the group of Democrats in sending letters to the leaders of Pfizer, Sandoz and Teva Pharmaceuticals about the nationwide shortages affecting certain cancer drugs, the antibiotic amoxicillin and stimulant medications, including Adderall. The lawmakers are asking the companies for a briefing and more information, including about how they are planning to respond to the shortages, by March 6. In a letter to Pfizer, the lawmakers demanded more information on carboplatin, cisplatin and methotrexate, three generic drugs that are used to treat cancer. The lawmakers said Pfizer and its subsidiaries are major manufacturers of those cancer drugs and claimed there have been reports of price gouging amid the shortages. The current oncology drug shortage affects the clinical decision-making process, patient outcomes, and quality of life, and without crucial oncology drugs, cancer patients face severe gaps in their treatments and an increased risk of severe, life-threatening complications, the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Pfizer. Pfizer confirmed to The Hill that it received the letter but declined to further comment on the investigation. The House Oversight Democrats said Sandoz is one of the top manufacturers of powder amoxicillin which has faced shortages for more than a year. Parents, pediatricians, and children depend on amoxicillin to treat a variety of childhood illnesses, from the routine to life-threatening, and antibiotics like amoxicillin are 42% more likely to experience shortages than other prescription medications, the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Sandoz. When reached for comment on the letter, a spokesperson for Sandoz said they look forward to briefing committee members on the work Sandoz has done to address shortages of amoxicillin, as we have a very strong story to tell. The lawmakers noted that Teva Pharmaceuticals is one of the leading manufacturers of Adderall, which has faced shortages since October 2022, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Students in particular have faced long-term problems as they struggle to fill their Adderall prescriptions. Our constituents share story after story detailing how hard it is to fill prescriptions for Adderall and that the shortage affects every element of their lives, lawmakers wrote in the letter to Teva. For example, previously capable students are now barely able to get passing grades, and adults are forced to contact every local pharmacy in an attempt to obtain a medication that may be the difference between being productive and focused in the workplace or losing their livelihoods, they added. Other House Democrats have previously voiced their concerns about the Adderall shortage, with a group sending a letter to the FDA last year demanding answers on what is being done to address the shortage. House Republicans also launched an investigation into how the FDA is responding to the drug shortages last year. The Hill has reached out to Teva for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Footage posted to social media showed panicked scenes as passengers attempted to escape the vehicle under a torrent of water - Salvatore Laporta/INSTARimages A large sinkhole appeared on a road in Naples on Wednesday morning and swallowed two cars, one with passengers inside. The chasm appeared in the Italian citys Vomero district around 4am, engulfing a vehicle occupied by two young men who were reportedly returning from university exam celebrations. One of the men told the news site Fanpage that moments after the car plunged into the hole, a tree fell onto their vehicle and burst a pipe, causing the opening to begin filling with water. Footage posted to social media showed panicked scenes as the passengers attempted to escape the vehicle under a torrent of gushing water. Giulo Delle Donne, a local councillor, said: Its a miracle we are aliveIt could have gone much, much worse. The water pipe broke and we could have been submerged in water. The mayor of Naples said poorly maintained sewer systems in the southern city were at fault for the sinkhole - Salvatore Laporta/KONTROLAB / ip/INSTARimages The pair sustained only minor injuries after members of the Campania regiment of the Italian military came to their aid. The soldiers were stationed in the area as part of the citys new safe streets initiative and pulled the men to safety. The second car involved was parked and unoccupied at the time of the incident. Gaetano Manfredi, the mayor of Naples, said poorly maintained sewer systems were at fault for the sinkhole in the southern city, Italian newspaper outlets have reported. In a post to X, formerly Twitter, Naples City Council said local police, firemen and workers from the citys water company were attending the scene. This is not the first time a sinkhole has appeared in the southern-western city, with outlet The Local Italy reporting that a sewage pipe collapsed in the Via Manzoni area of Naples just last 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. People take part in a demonstration in the Speicherstadt called by The Verdi trade union against the sale of shares in Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) to the Italian shipping company MSC. Marcus Brandt/dpa Hundreds of people in Hamburg including port workers turned out to protest against the entry of the world's largest shipping company MSC into the Hamburg port logistics company HHLA on Wednesday. They marched from the headquarters of Hamburger Hafen und Logistik in the Speicherstadt warehouse district to the MSC branch then onwards to the economic authorities, repeatedly chanting "Our harbour, our city, smash the MSC deal." The police initially said there were around 500 participants. Some 2,500 people protested against the controversial deal in September. HHLA staff walked out in a day-long protest against the agreement in December. However, Hamburg's governing Senate has officially approved the entry of MSC into HHLA and the city parliament could approve the deal in May. Under the deal, the city of Hamburg and Geneva-based Italian Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) would run HHLA as a joint venture, with the city holding a majority stake of 50.1%. The city currently owns around 70% of HHLA, which is to remain in its current form until the end of 2026. The port of Hamburg is the largest in Germany by volume and among the most important harbours in northern Europe. People take part in a demonstration in the Speicherstadt called by The Verdi trade union against the sale of shares in Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) to the Italian shipping company MSC. Marcus Brandt/dpa People take part in a demonstration in the Speicherstadt against the sale of shares in Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) to the Italian shipping company MSC. Marcus Brandt/dpa The permanent representatives of the EU have approved the extension of current sanctions against Russia and Belarus for another six months, rejecting Hungary's attempt to exclude the names of three Russian oligarchs, namely Alisher Usmanov, Viatcheslav Kantor, and Dmitry Mazepin, from the lists. Source: Rikard Jozwiak, Brussels correspondent of Radio Liberty, on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda. Quote: "Separately, EU ambassadors also agreed on the roll-over of the sanctions on over 1900 Russian and Belarusian individuals and companies for another 6 months." Details: Jozwiak said Hungary wanted to delist Usmanov, Kantor and Mazepin Jr, but failed again. Background: In early February, the EU Court ruled that Russian-Uzbek metals and telecoms tycoon Alisher Usmanov and former Russian deputy prime minister Igor Shuvalov will remain on the EU sanctions list. On 21 February, the permanent representatives of the European Union also agreed to approve the 13th tranche of sanctions against Russia, which is expected to be formally adopted by the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine (24 February 2024). Support UP or become our patron! Hunter Biden's attorneys filed nine motions on Tuesday asking a judge to dismiss tax-related charges filed by special counsel David Weiss in a California federal court last year. "The special counsel has gone to extreme lengths to bring charges against Mr. Biden that would not have been filed against anyone else," said Hunter Bidens attorney Abbe Lowell in a statement. "Prosecutors reneged on binding agreements, bowed to political pressure to bring unprecedented charges, overreached in their authority, ignored the rules and allowed their agents to run amok, and repeatedly misstated evidence to the court to defend their conduct." In the court filings, Hunter Biden's attorneys argued that the president's son was being selectively targeted for prosecution. They also argued that the statute of limitations had expired, there were duplicative charges for the same tax year and several of the charges should be dismissed for improper venue. Hunter Biden's attorneys argue that for one of the tax charges stemming from 2019, the president's son already paid his taxes with interest and penalties. "When a taxpayer has paid all they owe under those circumstances, as Mr. Biden has, criminal tax charges simply are not brought," one of the filings said. "The fact that they were brought here highlights that Mr. Biden is being subject to a selective and vindictive prosecution." Another filing zeroed in on IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, arguing that the prosecution was "prejudiced" by their "unprecedented leaks." "In numerous acts spanning months, these agents engaged in what is best described as vigilante justice in the court of public opinion, making a public mockery of the framework within which these types of investigations should be handled," a filing said. Yet another filing hits back at the special counsel, arguing that Weiss "was unlawfully appointed as Special Counsel" and that the funding for his investigation and prosecution was not approved by Congress, which the attorneys say violates the Appropriates Clause. In a separate filing, the attorneys argued that the indictment was "littered with inflammatory characterizations and gratuitous facts" that could confuse a jury and deny Hunter Biden a fair trial, asking the judge to strike certain allegations from the indictment. President Joe Biden's son pleaded not guilty to nine tax-related charges during his arraignment in January. He had previously been indicted in the Central District of California on allegations that he failed to pay taxes. The December indictment alleged that Hunter Biden "spent millions of dollars on an extravagant lifestyle" instead of paying taxes. The president's son in December asked a federal judge in Delaware to dismiss gun-related charges against him, pointing to a previous agreement with prosecutors that his attorneys said gave him immunity. Several of the motions in Tuesday's filing largely mirrored arguments made in the gun case but were more directed to the specific charges he faces in federal court in California. NBC News has reached out to the White House and the special counsel's office for comment. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Hunter Biden lawyer says photo on his phone showed sawdust, not cocaine: prosecution is flat out wrong An attorney for Hunter Biden is disputing a picture included in a Special Counsel Filing last week, saying it is not cocaine, as was previously described, but sawdust. The picture in question was among multiple photographs the president's son allegedly took of his drug abuse. The Justice Department included the photos in a court filing last week to prove Hunter Biden was addicted to drugs when he answered "No" to drug use on a gun application, which is a violation of federal law. Photos on Hunter Biden's iPhone showed images of cocaine, crack cocaine and drug paraphanelia. Hunter Biden's lawyer said one of the photos was taken in the office of his then-psychiatrist, Dr. Keith Ablow. Ablow had received the picture, Biden's lawyer said, from a "master carpenter" who was a "coke addict." DOJ REVIEWING BIDEN, HUR INTERVIEW TO ID POTENTIAL CLASSIFIED INFORMATION IN RESPONSE TO HOUSE GOP DEMANDS The message accompanying this photo, Biden's lawyer said in the court filing, was meant to convey to the younger Biden that he too "could overcome any addiction." Biden's lawyer called the prosecution "reckless" for "making such a hyperbolic and sensational claim in a public filing," saying the move would surely "prejudice Mr. Biden in the public eye." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP DOJ DEFENDS SPECIAL COUNSEL REPORT ON BIDEN'S MEMORY: CONSISTENT WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENT, NOT GRATUITOUS "Mistaking sawdust for cocaine sounds more like a storyline from one of the 1980s Police Academy comedies than what should be expected in a high-profile prosecution by the U.S. Department of Justice," Biden's lawyer stated in the court filing. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Justice Department for comment. Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, departs a House Oversight Committee meeting at Capitol Hill on January 10, 2024, in Washington, DC. The president's son pleaded not guilty to federal gun charges in U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware in October, which accused him of lying about using drugs in October 2018 on a gun purchase form. He previously acknowledged that he struggled with a crack cocaine addiction during a period in 2018, but his attorneys said he did not break the law. Hunter Biden has since said he has stopped using drugs and has been working to turn his life around. Tuesday's court filing comes after Special Counsel David Weiss charged an FBI informant with giving false information after he alleged that Joe Biden and his son were paid millions in exchange for their help firing the Ukrainian prosecutor who was investigating the Ukrainian energy firm Burisma Holdings. Fox News David Spunt and Sarah Rumpf-Whitten contributed to this report. Original article source: Hunter Biden lawyer says photo on his phone showed sawdust, not cocaine: prosecution is flat out wrong Attorneys for Hunter Biden accused Special Counsel Davis Weiss office of mistaking lines of sawdust for cocaine in court documents alleging drug use by the first sona blunder they argued was unbecoming of the office. Mistaking sawdust for cocaine sounds more like a storyline from one of the 1980s Police Academy comedies than what should be expected in a high-profile prosecution by the U.S. Department of Justice, Bidens lawyers snarked in a new filing. While digging through his electronics, investigators executing a search warrant found photos and videos that Biden had taken of apparent cocaine, crack cocaine, and drug paraphernalia, as they described it in an exhibit filed last week as evidence that he had been lying about his drug usage when he bought a gun in Delaware in 2018. One of the images included in the filing showed three lines of a yellow-tinged, powdery substance on a plank. The prosecution is flat out wrongboth that Mr. Biden took this photograph and in claiming that it depicts cocaine. Bidens attorneys wrote on Tuesday. Multiple sources have pointed out, and a review of discovery confirms, this is actually a photo of sawdust from an expert carpenter and it was sent to Mr. Biden, not vice versa. The filing goes on to explain that the carpenterin recovery from cocaine addiction himselfset up the gag shot and sent it to Bidens then-psychiatrist, Dr. Keith Ablow. The doctor sent it on to Biden, telling him hed told the carpenter hed have to choose between his art and his drug. He sent me the photo and a message that said, Made my choice, Ablow wrote. Hope you do, too. The message was meant to inspire Biden, his lawyers wrote, letting him know that he, too, could overcome any addiction. Bidens attorneys went on to excoriate the Justice Departments prosecutors for jumping to conclusions, arguing that it had damaged the presidents sons standing. The prosecution was reckless in making such a hyperbolic and sensational claim in a public filing, which it surely realized would prejudice Mr. Biden in the public eye, they said. The Biden teams filing did not address two other images included in the Justice Departments exhibit, one showing small tools in a Hermes box and another a scale weighing grainy white rocks. Weiss office did not immediately return an after-hours request for comment on Tuesday. Biden was indicted last September on three federal charges related to the 2018 gun purchase. The indictment was handed down after a plea agreement that would have resolved any charges related to the caseas well as further tax-related charges in Californiafell apart at the last second. He faces up to 25 years behind bars on the gun charges alone. (In December, he was indicted for allegedly trying to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes between 2016 and 2019.) He has pleaded not guilty to both indictments and, in December, asked a federal judge to dismiss the gun charges, arguing the case against him is politically motivated. Weiss has denied any right-wing bias in prosecuting Biden. Stripped of its bluster, the defendants theory of vindictiveness is simply not credible, he wrote last month. Bidens Tuesday filing, which seeks to ensure prosecutors have fulfilled their discovery obligations, also references Alexander Smirnov, arguing that his recent indictment proves the case is tainted. A former FBI informant, Smirnov was charged last week with fabricating claims that Biden and his father took bribes from a Ukrainian company. It now seems clear that the Smirnov allegations infected this case as prosecutors resuscitated a baseless investigation based on Smirnovs ridiculous claims as they chased Biden, the lawyers wrote. The Special Counsel charged Mr. Smirnov with lying and obstruction, but the more interesting part of this story is not that Mr. Smirnov lied, they added. It is more remarkable that beginning in July 2023, the Special Counsels team would follow Mr. Smirnov down his rabbit hole of lies as long as it did. 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. Hunter Bidens lawyers launched a wide-ranging legal assault Tuesday on the federal tax charges he faces, accusing prosecutors of caving to political pressure, IRS investigators of illegally leaking his records and the Justice Department of improperly empowering a special counsel to pursue the case against him. The presidents son filed nine motions on Tuesday seeking to gut or dismiss the case outright, describing a campaign of outrageous and vindictive government forces arrayed against him. Biden is facing federal charges in California for allegedly failing to file tax returns, understating his income and inflating his business expenses over a three-year period. The charges followed a failed attempt to finalize a plea deal in Delaware on a federal charge of being a drug user in possession of a firearm. Bidens attorneys filed the fusillade of motions to dismiss some or all of the charges brought by special counsel David Weiss in Los Angeles federal court last December. Attorney General Merrick Garland elevated Weiss who was appointed as U.S. attorney by then-President Donald Trump to special counsel status last year. The motions argue that the case against Hunter Biden is defective for a variety of reasons, including that he is being targeted for selective and vindictive prosecution driven by politically-motivated pressure applied by extremist Republicans. Politics have tainted this prosecution, and there is no constitutional option but to dismiss this case, Hunter Bidens attorney, Abbe Lowell, wrote. Lowell pointed to what he said were several instances in which Weiss allegedly caved to GOP pressure, including when prosecutors vaulted from two tax misdemeanors to nine misdemeanors and felonies. Weiss has replied to similar motions in Delaware, denying that political concerns affected the prosecution. The charges in this case are not trumped up or because of former President Trump they are instead a result of the defendants own choices and were brought in spite of, not because of, any outside noise made by politicians, Weiss wrote. In the new filings, Lowell said the failed plea agreement on the gun charge, which he says was intended to preclude any other criminal charges against the younger Biden, should be treated as binding. But most notably, Biden and his lawyers take aim at Weiss himself and contend he was illegally appointed as special counsel because DOJ policies require special counsels to come from outside of government. Trump and his allies have made similar claims about the legitimacy of special counsels that have probed their conduct in recent years. Trump, in fact, is expected to file a similar motion later this week as he seeks to dismantle a federal case against him in Florida brought by special counsel Jack Smith. Earlier this month, Bidens attorneys asked the judge in the tax case filed in Los Angeles, Marc Scarsi, to postpone the deadlines for motions in that case and allow the judge in the Delaware gun case, Maryellen Noreika, to rule first on a parallel set of motions filed there last year. Scarsi denied Bidens request without comment. Both judges are Trump appointees. FILE - Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, speaks during a news conference outside the U.S. Capitol, Dec. 13, 2023, in Washington. Hunter Biden's lawyers say claims made by a former FBI informant charged with fabricating a bribery scheme involving the presidential family may have tainted the case against the president's son.(AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib, File) WASHINGTON (AP) Hunter Biden s lawyers suggested Tuesday that claims made by a former FBI informant charged with fabricating a bribery scheme involving the presidential family may have tainted the case against the presidents son. The gun and tax charges against Hunter Biden are separate from the claims made by the informant, Alexander Smirnov, who has been charged with making up a bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden, his son and a Ukrainian energy company. But Hunter Bidens attorneys say the chatter over the informant contributed to the collapse of the plea deal offered to Hunter Biden last summer. The filing comes as Hunter Biden continues his public offensive over claims about his professional life and drug use that have been central to congressional investigations and an impeachment inquiry that seeks to tie his business dealings to his father. The presidents son is charged with lying on a form about his drug use to buy a gun in 2018. He has pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers say one photo that prosecutors used as evidence of cocaine use was actually a photo of sawdust sent by his therapist to encourage him to stay clean. The Justice Department special counsel overseeing the case against him also filed the charges against Smirnov last week. He is accused of falsely reporting to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. But before that case was filed, the prosecution followed the informant down his rabbit hole of lies, defense attorneys said in court documents. The special counsel's office started investigating Smirnov's claims in July 2023, three years after he originally reported them to his handler. The plea deal imploded around the same time, after prosecutors indicated that an investigation into bribery allegations remained open, defense attorneys said in court documents. He has not yet entered a plea, but his defense attorneys said they successfully pushed for his release ahead of trial so he can effectively fight the power of the government. A spokesperson for special counsel David Weiss declined to comment. Prosecutors have previously said that the evidence against Hunter Biden is overwhelming, including cocaine residue found on the pouch used to hold his gun, and rejected the defense contention that the charges were politically motivated. Hunter Biden is also charged in Los Angeles, accused of failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. Both cases stem from the time when he acknowledged being addicted to drugs. Defense attorneys also pushed for dismissal of that case in a flurry of motions, including arguments his personal tax information was wrongly shared by IRS agents who alleged in congressional testimony the probe was mishandled. The cases were filed by special counsel David Weiss, who also charged Smirnov with lying to the FBI in an indictment filed last week. Smirnov's defense attorneys are pressing for his release from custody. The charges against Hunter Biden were filed after the collapse of a plea deal that would have avoided the possibility of a trial while his father is campaigning for another term as president. The deal imploded, though, during a hearing in July, around the same time prosecutors from the special counsels office started looking into the informants claims at the request of the FBI, according to court documents. ___ Associated Press writer Rio Yamat in Las Vegas contributed to this report. Former San Antonio attorney Christopher Pettit, left, walks with his attorney Michael G. Colvard into the Hipolito F. Garcia Federal Building to meet with creditors, Wednesday, July 20, 2022. Pettit is facing allegations that he stole tens of millions of dollars from his clients. Jerry Lara/Staff photographer U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia handed down Chris Pettit's sentence Wedensday. /Courtesy photo Former San Antonio attorney Chris's Pettit's operated his main law office at 11902 Rustic Lane. He bankruptcy for himself and his firm and surrendered his law license after he was accused of stealing millions from clients. He later was criminally charged in connection with the thefts. Former attorney Chris Pettit operated a law office at 13111 Huebner Road in San Antonio. Chris Pettit, who perpetrated one of the largest swindles of client money in Texas history, may spend the rest of his life in prison. U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia on Wednesday sentenced the 56-year-old disgraced attorney to 50 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to three counts each of wire fraud and money laundering in connection with stealing tens of millions of dollars from clients. About 50 of Pettits victims attended the sentencing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I will tell you all, Ive been on the bench next month will be 30 years, Garcia told them. This is the absolute worst white-collar fraud case Ive ever had. He sentenced Pettit to 15 years for each of the wire fraud charges, to be served consecutively. He also was sentenced to five years on each of the money laundering counts. Those will be served concurrently but were stacked on top of the wire fraud charges. The judge opted to go outside sentencing guidelines which called for between 19.5 and 24.5 years based on Pettits extreme conduct, the number of victims, the financial hardship caused them and his role as an attorney to build trust, which contributed to the crime. How much Pettit will owe in restitution and where hell serve his sentence have yet to be decided. Advertisement Article continues below this ad His crimes have had devastating consequences, upending dozens of his former clients lives while destroying their retirements and, in some cases, depleting fortunes they planned to pass on to heirs. Some victims have said family members died from the stress. Pettit: Heartbroken The ramifications for Pettit have been severe, as well. Not only was he locked up, his only living brother an employee of the law firm died by suicide amid the mounting scrutiny into Pettits actions. And Pettits young son, for whom he was the sole parent, went to live with his nanny in a mobile home because Pettit had no immediate surviving family members to care for the boy. HOW IT BEGAN: San Antonio attorney faces multiple lawsuits for allegedly stealing millions of dollars from clients Pettit specialized in estate planning, handled trust and probate matters, and provided financial advice to clients. In some instances, he had recommended they invest in municipal bonds that apparently didnt even exist. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Garcia had a gaunt-looking Pettit, shackled and dressed in navy blue prison garb, turn around at the podium to face his victims. To each and every one of the victims in this room, first of all, I want to apologize to you, Pettit said. I want to let you know that I am heartbroken by what youve gone through. Most of you were friends of mine. I really meant that. I know most of you dont believe that now. He vowed to them that he would do everything within my power to help them get their money back. Many of the victims have heard that before but they have yet to see much, if any, of the money they lost. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Stephenson said Pettit has not cooperated in his criminal case or in the bankruptcy cases for himself and his defunct law firm. In my mind, unless he gave the money back to each and every victim, there is no cooperation, Garcia said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pray for death The judge heard from nine of the victims before handing down the sentence. Many of them owned farm or ranch land that had been passed down from generation to generation. Among them was Loretta Persyn, whose family had been Pettit clients for nearly 20 years. He stole from our family basically three generations of farming, she told the judge. That would be 120 years and thats what he should get for his crime, and it should not be concurrent. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She added, Personally, I pray for his death and let this be the end. Robert Kintigh said Pettits actions contributed to his elderly mothers death. It just wiped our family completely out, he said. He just totally destroyed us, completely and utterly destroyed us. I just hope the court realizes just how much damage hes done. Its just evil. Mounting claims Some of Pettits clients suspected something was amiss in 2021 and early 2022, prompting many of them to sue him and his law firm. The San Antonio Express-News was first to report on a slew of lawsuits against Pettit in May 2022. In the earliest case, a judge in San Antonio ruled a physician who was a Pettit client could recover almost $2.9 million in actual damages and nearly $8.7 million in punitive damages from the lawyer. Less than two weeks after the story appeared, Pettit filed for bankruptcy protection for himself and his law firm. He listed $27.8 million in assets and $115.2 million in debts in his personal case making it one of the largest individual bankruptcies ever in San Antonio. Days later, the Texas Supreme Court accepted Pettits resignation from the State Bar of Texas. He had surrendered his law license in lieu of discipline. As his bankruptcy case unfolded over the next several months, Pettit earned a reputation as an uncooperative debtor who obfuscated when asked direct questions. He was unwilling or unable to say where his former clients money went, saying repeatedly that he was looking into it. At least some of the money went to purchase multimillion-dollar homes in San Antonio and Orlando and a collection of high-end automobiles and to pay household expenses, but most of the missing money has yet to be accounted for. READ NEXT: A prominent San Antonio Catholic high school has a Chris Pettit problem Creditors in the bankruptcy cases submitted roughly 200 claims totaling $259 million, far more than the liabilities Pettit listed. His bankruptcy lawyer has questioned the authenticity of some claims, saying creditors may be seeking more than theyre owed to the detriment of honest creditors. The bankruptcy court has yet to consider the claims. The criminal charges against Pettit relate to about $60 million in losses, a prosecutor told Garcia in October. In return for Pettits guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to drop two wire fraud charges. He could have received a maximum of 20 years on each of the wire fraud counts and 10 years on each of the money laundering charges. Behind bars Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Craig Gargotta sent Pettit to jail in September 2022 after finding him in civil contempt for violating a court order prohibiting him from transferring or disposing of any personal property. A few months later, Gargotta ordered Pettits release after finding he had cleared himself of the contempt charge. But he never regained his freedom. The day of the order, a federal grand jury indicted him on five counts of wire fraud and three counts of money laundering. He pleaded not guilty. A judge granted prosecutors request that Pettit remained locked up at the Karnes County Detention Facility. Rather than stand trial, though, Pettit cut a deal with prosecutors in September and pleaded guilty in October. He admitted running his law practice as a Ponzi-type scheme, making false promises to induce clients to entrust him with their money. He used a portion of it to enrich himself and other portions to hide his scheme by making payouts to some clients, prosecutors said. Restitution question How much hell have to return to his victims is an open question. Two weeks ago, prosecutors filed a motion to separate the punishment phase of Pettits sentencing from the restitution phase, citing the intricacies and difficulties in calculating with sufficient precision how much is owed. Thats due in part to Pettits own lack of recordkeeping, and the complexity of the scheme, prosecutors said. Pettit and his criminal defense lawyer said they preferred both matters be handled together or moved to another day. Garcia granted prosecutors request and kept Wednesdays punishment phase in place, possibly because the U.S. Attorneys Office had sent letters to victims alerting them of the sentencing date. The Mandatory Victims Restitution Act requires defendants who commit crimes by fraud or deceit to make restitution. It isnt the only avenue of recovery for victims, however. Theyve already filed proofs of claim in the bankruptcy and many have filed a breach of fiduciary duty lawsuit against various banks where Pettits firm kept accounts while in business. Gargotta, the bankruptcy judge, though, cautioned those in attendance at a Feb. 7 hearing about the three rails of recovery. I just think its important that everyone understand one recovery, the judge said, reminding lawyers that if their clients get their money back from one source they cant seek it from another. This week, the United States will ask some of the worlds largest economies to aid Haiti. We hope there is an encouraging response. The request to be posed on the sidelines of a ministerial meeting of the powerful G20 nations comes as some Republican members of Congress continue to block a request to fund the deployment of Kenyan armed police officers to the Caribbean country, and as the fate of the mission still remains up in the air. Last week, in a sign of hopeful progress, the United States, Haiti, and Kenya met in Washington, D.C., to plan the deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti as the situation continues to rapidly deteriorate amid an increase in murders, kidnappings and rapes by violent gangs. G20 nations, any help is welcomed. Time is of the essence. Haiti crisis With food and fuel shortages worsening living conditions, the international community had hoped Kenya would lead an armed intervention to restore order. However, Kenyas high court has blocked the deployment. For now, Haiti has no clear path forward to end the chaos brought by armed gangs. That chaos, already brewing under President Jovenel Moise, was worsened by his assassination in 2021. The ongoing investigation into Moises death took on a new twist this week: His widow, Martine Moise, wounded in the plot that killed her husband, has been indicted. As the Biden administration awaits congressional funding and a legal decision in Kenya, its time for the U.S. and the United Nations, maybe with an assist from G20 nations, can craft a Plan B to rescue the Haitian people from the grip of gangs, which have become the countrys de-facto government. Move to Plan B It could be time to move on without Kenyas solution, which some Haitians oppose. They want a Haitian solution to Haitis problems, which seems unlikely given the countrys under-gunned police forces. Last year, the international community stepped in, recognized the crisis, and committed to sending a non-U.N. security force. If only it had been that simple. After Canada declined to help, Kenya stepped up, but a judge on its Nairobi High Court has blocked sending 1,000 of the East African nations police officers to Haiti. Days after the U.N. Security Council approved the mission, Hamas attacked Israel. Attention shifted to that section of the world. Sending troops to Haiti and financing the mission appears to have fallen to the back burner, unfortunately. Months later, the deployment of any help to Haiti remains up in the air. Now add a resurgence in protests against Prime Minister Ariel Henry by both Haitians rightfully angry about the lack of security and economic opportunities and those seeking to take advantage of the despair. As Haitis neighbor and ally, the U.S. must show leadership and do more. But what? Lets hope this upcoming conference offers clarity. While the Biden administration has said U.S. military intervention is out of the question, some form of international security presence is urgently needed. No government can function adequately or address a humanitarian crisis under lawlessness. Restore order The goal is not to create a long-term occupation but to create a window of stability so aid delivery, economic revitalization, and political reconciliation can begin and democratic elections can happen. We in South Florida have watched as the Haitian people have suffered greatly over the years from disasters, both natural and human-made. A safe, prosperous Haiti benefits the U.S. in stemming the tide of refugees to South Florida. The situation will only worsen if the international community fails to act with urgency. Haitis people deserve peace, stability, and hope for the future. The U.S. and U.N. all Haiti has standing between chaos must do everything possible to deliver help. Lets hope the G20 nations can offer a solution before their meeting in November. By then, it could be too late for some Haitians. Click here to send the letter. A group of expert lawyers has stated that the confiscation of frozen assets belonging to the Russian Central Bank does not contradict international law due to the scale of Russias invasion of Ukraine. Source: Bloomberg Quote: "The European Union, the Group of Seven nations and Australia have frozen about 260 billion ($280 billion) in the form of securities and cash, with more than two-thirds of that immobilised in the EU. They all agree that those funds should remain off-limits from Russia unless it agrees to help with Ukraines reconstruction, but so far theyre at odds over the legality of seizing the assets outright." The letter sent out to the G7 capitals and received by the Bloomberg agency was signed by 10 international law experts and practitioners from Belgium, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, the UK and the US who seek to make the legal case for seizing the assets in question. "We have concluded that it would be lawful, under international law, for States which have frozen Russian State assets to take additional countermeasures against Russia, given its ongoing breach of the most fundamental rules of international law, in the form of transfers of Russian State assets as compensation for the damage that has resulted directly from Russias unlawful conduct," the experts wrote. Among the signees are Harold Hongju Koh, a Yale Law School professor and former dean who was also a US State Department legal adviser under the Obama administration, as well as Philip Zelikow from the Hoover Institution, a lawyer and former career diplomat who worked in government across presidencies, including as a strategic consultant for the Biden administration. Seven out of the rest of the signees are scientists and practitioners of international law from Europe, and one is from Japan. "The letter comes as G-7 nations are debating what to do with the assets in question as Ukraines financing needs remain persistently high, with the war showing no signs of abating. The EU is slowly making progress on plans to at least apply a windfall tax to the profits generated by the immobilized funds. Last year the funds enabled profits of 4.4 billion," Bloomberg adds. The UK and the US are pushing their G7 allies to complete confiscation of the Russian Central Banks assets, and Canada is open to this discussion, according to officials familiar with the course of the discussion. The European G7 members, mainly France and Germany, are currently acting against this step due to legal problems and concerns that it may harm the stability of the euro and create a dangerous precedent. Background: President Joe Biden's administration supported a bill that would allow it to seize some of the US$300 billion in frozen Russian assets to provide it to Ukraine. Russia is preparing a lawsuit to disrupt any attempts by the US or the EU to confiscate part of the Central Bank's US$300 billion in frozen assets in favour of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! JAY, Okla. A Delaware County mans journal allegedly outlined his relationship with a teenage girl saying he loved her and how she was his best friend and how they would raise a child if she were to become pregnant. Oklahoma man called repugnant, sentenced to four life terms Brent Wesley Summers Brent Wesley Summers, 24, of Colcord, is charged in Delaware County District Court in Jay with second-degree rape and forcible sodomy. He waived his right to a preliminary hearing during Tuesdays court appearance. Summers is free on $100,000 bail and is due back in court for his district court arraignment on March 28. In addition to allegedly raping the teen, he is accused of supplying rum, marijuana and vapes to the teen and her friend, according to an arrest warrant. The affidavit states that the alleged wrongdoing occurred between August through most of September 2022 when the teens mother reported the alleged rape to authorities on September 29, after being told about the pairs journals and reading them herself, the affidavit states. The teen told Delaware County investigators she didnt know if (the) sex was consensual because she was drunk, the affidavit states. Summers denied any inappropriate contact with the 14-year-old girl except only a kiss once and a short three to five-second kiss on the lips, the affidavit states. Summers told investigators They talked about when she was 18 if she was to get pregnant, the affidavit states. Court records show Summers was charged a week later. If convicted he faces up to 20 years in prison. Oklahoma man accused of using psychic messages to rape 11-year-old Andrew Enlow, Summers attorney, said during the hearing there was no plea being offered by the district attorneys office. Summers journal entries On the first page of Summers journal is a page with the title What To Expect, according to a probable cause affidavit. Summers mentions he might end up getting a few years in prison, the affidavit states. Are they gonna (sic) support our relationship or are they gonna (sic) hate to see us together? Id say (its) 50/50 which ones are gonna (sic) want to see me in prison for falling in love with my best friend, according to entries allegedly written in the journal. Well, first things first we would have to state that it was consensual and that it was agreed on by both parties. Brent Wesley Summers journal Other journal entries deal with the possibility of the teen getting pregnant, the affidavit states. The journal entries continue if Summers went to prison and him not present to raise the child, writing he doesnt want their child growing up visiting him in prison. So talking hypothetically (and) your mom does take me to court and shes gonna fight for custody of our child (and) well need to come up with valid points of why she does not deserve custody. Brent Wesley Summers journal Summers entries detail about fighting for custody of the child and (mysteriously croaking) and leaving money to the teen saying You could be financially set for a good while, the affidavit states. Summers journal concluded with him saying he loves the teen. Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact Delaware County Childrens Special Advocacy Network at (918) 253-4539 or the Childrens Advocacy Center of Ottawa County at (918) 540-1621 if they suspect any child is a victim of abuse. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. The Iowa Senate has passed a bill that Republicans say will protect religious freedom, but that Democrats have described as a "blank check to discriminate" against LGBTQ Iowans and others. The Senate voted 31-16 to pass Senate File 2095 on Tuesday. Every Republican present was in favor, while every Democrat was opposed. Republicans have consistently introduced similar religious freedom bills since taking control of the House, Senate and governor's office in 2016, but Tuesday's vote was the first time such a proposal has passed the Senate. "I believe that it is time for Iowa to add a religious freedom restoration act to our code," said Sen. Jason Schultz, R-Schleswig, the bill's floor manager. Sen. Jason Schultz, R-Schleswig, right, mingles during recess inside the Iowa Senate chamber on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, in Des Moines. Sen. Liz Bennett, D-Cedar Rapids, described the bill as an attack on the LGBTQ community. "I stand before you today as a queer woman and an Iowan and I am proud to be both," she said. "And I am sick and tired of my community being the target of mean-spirited discriminatory bills written by Republican politicians." More: Which Iowa bills are alive? AEA overhaul, defining 'man' and 'woman' survive 'funnel' week Bennett said she's been an evangelist for Iowa, encouraging people to move to the state. But she said the bill would take Iowa in the wrong direction. "If this bill had been a law when I graduated, I would have had to think about whether an employer could have asked me intrusive questions about my private life and deny me employment or even fire me," she said. "I would have had to think about whether a landlord could deny me housing or evict me." The legislation would say that state and local governments shall not "substantially burden" someone's exercise of religion unless it is in furtherance of a compelling government interest and the least restrictive means of pursuing that interest. A person, corporation, church, foundation or other entity whose exercise of religion has been burdened would have the power to go to court to seek damages or other means of redressing the harm against them. The bill defines exercise of religion as action "substantially motivated by one's sincerely held religious belief, whether or not the exercise is compulsory or central to a larger system of religious belief." Democrats raised concerns that people or businesses could use the law to circumvent civil rights laws by citing religious beliefs as justification to deny services, housing, employment or other public accommodations to LGBTQ Iowans or other minority groups. "This legislation is not about restoring religious freedom at all," said Sen. Zach Wahls, D-Coralville. "This legislation is about allowing some people to cite their religious beliefs to violate the basic civil rights protections that all Iowans benefit from. This bill is a direct assault on the basic idea of equal protection under the law." The federal government passed a "Religious Freedom Restoration Act" in 1993, and about two dozen states have their own version. In one high-profile case, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that Hobby Lobby could cite a religious belief under the federal law to refuse to cover birth control for its employees' health insurance plans. Schultz denied that Iowa's bill would enable discrimination. "This bill only does three things," he said. "It gives you a cause of action to go to court. It gives the court instructions to apply a compelling interest test, and then if there is a compelling interest then it is the least restrictive means possible." More: Iowans flock to Capitol for heated hearing on Kim Reynolds' bill defining 'man' and 'woman' Business groups have opposed similar bills in Iowa for years, and several business groups and chambers of commerce urged lawmakers not to pass this year's bill. Lobbyists registered against the bill include the Krause Group, the Technology Association of Iowa, Principal Financial Group and the Iowa Chamber Alliance. Sen. Janice Weiner, D-Iowa City, said individuals and businesses in other states have used similar laws as "a blank check to discriminate." Weiner said Iowa would lose out on economic opportunities and investments and struggle to attract workers seeking more welcoming states if the bill passes. "When were facing a historic workforce crisis, we must do things that will draw people to Iowa, not push them away," she said. Sen. Jeff Taylor, R-Sioux Center, said it seems like the bill's opponents see it as "some kind of a plot by conservative Christians to discriminate against people." But he said the legislation would benefit people of all faiths, not just conservative Christians. "This is not religion specific," he said. "This is going to benefit everybody." An identical version of the bill advanced through a committee in the Iowa House. It must still pass the full chamber before it could go to Gov. Kim Reynolds for her signature. Stephen Gruber-Miller covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. He can be reached by email at sgrubermil@registermedia.com or by phone at 515-284-8169. Follow him on Twitter at @sgrubermiller. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa Senate passes 'religious freedom' bill over Democrats' objections Bill Vahl waited until the last minute to file his claim against the Boy Scouts of America. Silent for most of his 71 years about the sexual abuse he alleges he suffered from a Dubuque adult Scout leader, Vahl said he had to think long and hard about his love for the Scouts, the crippling health issues hes coped with all his adult life, and the at least 82,000 other men who say they endured sexual abuse as children at the hands of Boy Scout volunteers who turned out to be predators. In the end, Vahl decided that becoming part of the nationwide settlement in 2020 was one way he could try to force the Scouts to better protect kids. Id like to make them get better, Vahl said. Unwittingly, they have been a big player in this sex crimes business. Theyre the ones who serve up kids to these predators. And after everything Ive read, I thought this is the only way they are going to get serious about making change. Bill Vahl, 71, seen in a visit to Eagle Point Park in his hometown of Dubuque, says he was sexually abused from ages 12 to 15 by an adult scout leader while growing up there. Vahl, who now lives in Tucson, Arizona, is in the final stages of submitting pages of documents to the Boy Scouts $2.46 billion trust. That fund, approved last March for survivors owed claims as part of a federal bankruptcy case, began distributing payments last fall to men who were abused as children by troop leaders. It's the largest fund of its kind in U.S. history to settle sexual abuse claims. But debate surrounding the settlements continues. More: Mid-Iowa Boy Scouts will pay $2.5 million in national organization's massive child sex abuse settlement On Feb. 16, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito temporarily froze the settlements to give the court more time to decide a Feb. 9 request by 144 abuse claimants to block the settlements from moving forward. They have said the settlement deal unlawfully stops them from pursuing lawsuits against organizations that are not bankrupt, such as churches that ran Scouting programs, local Boy Scout councils and insurers that provided coverage to the Boy Scouts organization, the Reuters news service reported. Vahl and several Iowa state legislators are also concerned that the roughly 300 to 350 Iowans involved in the settlement with the Boy Scouts of America will receive a fraction of awards they would be entitled to unless state legislators take action this year to change an Iowa law. Thats because the current settlement uses a matrix that factors in a mix of variables including how much abuse was suffered, how long it lasted and different states' statutes of limitations on civil abuse claims to determine how much victims get paid. Iowas statute of limitations requires victims in most instances to file civil cases in district courts by the age of 19. No other state in the U.S. sets the age so low. But the statute also allows victims to file suits within three years of when they made the connection between their abuse and their injuries. Gilion Dumas, an Oregon attorney who is one of two lawyers appealing the national settlement agreement, has represented numerous Iowans in lawsuits against the national Scouting organization. She said the matrix penalizes states with civil statutes of limitations that restrict who can file. If a victim was eligible for the maximum settlement of $2.7 million under the current agreement, the maximum claim value in Iowa would be reduced by about 60% to 70%, or to about $900,000, she said. "What they say is, if you got to bring your claim in state court, theres a really good chance the jury would throw it out because of the existing statute of limitations," she said. "Thats a pretty harsh argument. Weve never lost a case in Iowa or Oregon based on the statute of limitations. And we argue you shouldnt have to reduce the value of claims. But thats what the matrix says." In reality, she said, the settlement fund also doesn't have enough money for all the victims nationally, so what Iowans will wind up with is likely to be much less than the reduced amount. "People might be paid 10% of the value because thats how much is in the pot... thats why were appealing. Theres not enough money to pay people," she said. Spokespeople for the Boy Scouts of America, contacted Feb. 16, had not answered questions by the evening of Feb. 19 about the settlement agreement or the exact number of perpetrators and victims identified in Iowa in the bankruptcy case. Bill would have to become law by April State Sen. Janet Petersen, a Des Moines Democrat, said Iowa has one year from the effective date of the trust, or April 2024, to change state law or Iowa survivors will receive less than others around the country. Child advocacy organizations have long considered Iowas civil statute of limitations to be one of the worst in the country. Petersen said the measure she proposed again this year would have eliminated the statute of limitation to file civil claims and given victims a revival window to file them. However, the bill, Senate File 2233, didn't make it through the Feb. 16 funnel, a deadline for bills to clear committee. State Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, where similar legislation to lift the civil statute of limitations has stalled for several years, did not respond to phone calls or emails seeking comment. Brad Epperly, a lobbyist who represents Iowa's Defense Counsel Association, the only organization registered against Senate File 2233, said eliminating the state's statute of limitations altogether would make it difficult for organizations or employers to defend themselves against years-old sex abuse allegations. Under Iowa's existing law, he said, the state's statute of limitations doesn't start ticking until someone realizes they suffered sexual abuse as a minor and that abuse was the cause of their injuries. If the perpetrator and/or witnesses were dead, he said, allegations would be difficult for organizations to disprove. Epperly said his group doesn't oppose eliminating the statute of limitations in regard to perpetrators, but it does oppose eliminating it for organizations and employers. "Ultimately, it's a policy decision" for state leaders, he said. Supported by the Iowa Coalition Against Sexual Assault and the Iowa League of Women Voters, Senate File 2233 would eliminate the statute of limitations for those who suffer damages as a result of sex abuse, sex trafficking and sexual exploitation, and create a revival window for survivors outside the statute of limitations to file claims and receive 100% of damages. But at this point in the legislative session, that measure or another would likely have to be offered as a leadership bill to have any hope of passing, Epperly said. He said he doesn't fully understand the current matrix in the Boy Scouts settlement, but "that's the agreement they've made." "It's a tough one," he said. "We've always implored (legislators) to limit the statute to the perpetrators ..." Dumas, the Oregon attorney, who describes herself as a right-leaning independent, said the proposed statute change, thus far supported primarily by Democrats in Iowa, shouldn't be a partisan issue. "In addition to supporting it for all the right moral reasons, this lets people follow the rule of law and file a civil lawsuit," she said. "It should not be a party issue. It creates a path forward for a person to sue the person or organization who wronged them. Thats our way." Years of abuse, then crippling fatigue and pain Bill Vahl's hiking merit application was signed in 1967 by Kenneth Krakow, the Scout leader he says sexually abused him. Once-secret internal files kept by the Boy Scouts of America, known as the ineligible volunteer, red list or perversion" files, include more than 1,300 volunteers expelled from about 1965 to 1985 because they were suspected of abusing children. The names, including Iowa Scout leaders, were released in 2012 after the first successful lawsuit by a survivor against the national Scouting organization in Portland. That case, filed by then-38-year-old Kerry Lewis after decades of quiet settlements, put the world's largest youth organization under the national spotlight and exposed its dark history of failing to protect children from pedophiles. Those files do not include everyone who has been accused of abuse including James Hughes of Creston, a 73-year-old former troop leader who faces a trial this summer on allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with at least five victims over a decade. Hughes, a licensed physical therapist, served as the committee chair and merit badge counselor for Boy Scout Troop 63 in northeast Iowa from 2008 to 2018, according to court documents. But he wasn't charged until last summer with four counts of third-degree sexual abuse and six counts of lascivious conduct with a minor, serious misdemeanors. The victims were 13 to 16 years old at the time of the alleged offenses, court documents show. Vahl has alleged his abuser was Kenneth Krakow, assistant scoutmaster of Dubuques Troop 23 from the mid-1960s to 1970, whose name was included in the perversion files when they were released. Krakow had been a volunteer with the troop since the 1930s and had served as scoutmaster previously. Bill Vahl in his Boy Scout uniform in his mid teens. In a letter sent to the national Boy Scouts organization in December 1970, a Scout executive from the Northeast Iowa Council notified the Boy Scouts of America that Krakow, then 49, had been engaging in sexual encounters with boys in the Dubuque area, letters released in the court case show. This fact he admitted freely to me in a conference. We have taken appropriate action here, wrote Scout executive Max Burgoyne in a letter included in the released files. Vahl said Krakow, who died in 1980, groomed him for more than a year, taking him to stock car races, on extra canoe trips and to run errands. He seemed like a cool guy. When he was around us boys, he would revert back into adolescence. He talked about sex and girls and Playboy," Vahl said. "We felt comfortable around him and trusted him. Krakow, Vahl said, sexually abused him at least 14 times from when he was about 12 until he was 15. Vahl said he never was able to tell his parents, or anyone else, what happened. It was taboo, he said. My parents were pretty neurotic, religious and very conservative and straight-laced. It would have created very big problems in our house. Vahl, a civil engineer, said that after becoming a drum major in high school, he got his pilots license at 17 and graduated with honors from Iowa State University. But in his early 20s, he began experiencing crushing fatigue and pain that lasted decades. Doctors at home and at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, couldnt figure out the origins of his illness and disagreed on how the neuromuscular fatigue should be treated. Vahl said he was exhausted and, most days, felt like he had the flu. "From the time I was 24, I was overwhelmed with health problems," he said. "I was just trying to stay alive. Some days, it was minute by minute. I hate to be dramatic, but it really was like that." The ensuing years brought periods of work, a stint on disability, then a greatly reduced work schedule that meant his wife, a teacher, had to be the primary breadwinner. My life was just destroyed, he said. I lived every day on the edge of suicide. The only thing that kept me going was that I always thought I could beat it. I was also raised as a Christian and suicide was looked down upon. And I didnt want to embarrass and hurt my parents by doing that. Beginning in 2008, Vahl said, his energy slowly began to return after he built up his strength with regular long walks with his dog. His lawyer suggested he be examined recently by a forensic psychiatrist to prepare for the settlement case. He said he told a psychiatrist about the abuse he suffered. He wrote that the sort of a trauma I experienced absolutely could have caused that illness, he said. Most survivors don't report abuse for decades According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, or RAINN, a mix of studies shows it often takes decades for survivors to disclose that they were abused. A majority dont until they are over 50. Iowa state leaders in 2021 lifted the states statute of limitations for bringing criminal charges in several kinds of child sex abuse crimes. The law covers crimes including sexual abuse, incest, sexual exploitation and human trafficking. At the time she signed the bill, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said: "Iowa stands in support of survivors of sexual violence as we become the 14th state to eliminate the statute of limitations for these heinous crimes." But the law does not cover civil claims, unlike a law that went into effect last year for victims who sue in federal courts. But most victims do not sue in federal court, and there are only two federal district courts in Iowa. The federal law also opened a two-year revival window for all expired claims. Seventeen states, including Illinois, Minnesota and Nebraska, have no statute of limitations for civil lawsuits in such cases. Vahl said he believes Iowa victims should have the same right under law to hold people and organizations accountable. He points to statistics from RAINN that suggest only 6% of perpetrators of rape will ever end up in jail. There are very, very few 18-year-olds or 17-year-olds or 16-year-olds that have the maturity that it takes to walk in to a lawyers office or a police station, or (go to) their parents to explain that they were sexually molested, he said. However, later in life they often have the courage to confront the issue and file a criminal charge or initiate a civil case. Once the Boy Scouts of America was sued, he said, the bankruptcy court also required the organization to institute sweeping changes in the way troop leaders were vetted. The settlement required sex abuse training for the leaders, parents and boys. And it required more parental involvement in camping outings. These are examples of how a civil lawsuit can reform programs for the better and make huge improvements in peoples lives, Vahl said. Lee Rood staff photo, Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021. Lee Rood's Reader's Watchdog column helps Iowans get answers and accountability from public officials, the justice system, businesses and nonprofits. Reach her at lrood@registermedia.com, at 515-284-8549, on Twitter at @leerood or on Facebook at Facebook.com/readerswatchdog. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa Boy Scouts sex abuse victims could get less in national settlement Minister of Petroleum of Iran Javad Owji leaves after attending a cabinet meeting. -/Iranian Presidency/dpa Iranian Petroleum Minister Javad Owji on Wednesday blamed Israel for several recent major natural gas pipeline explosions. Owji said on the sidelines of a Cabinet meeting that the damage had been repaired and described the sabotage as "an Israeli conspiracy that was not successful." Several natural gas pipelines in Iran's interior and south were struck by blasts a week ago. Saeid Aghli, a top official with the national gas company, earlier described the incidents on state television as a "terrorist" attack but did not attribute responsibility. On Friday, the New York Times reported Israel was behind the explosions, citing two Western government officials and a military strategist affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. As usual in these cases, Israel has not commented. The New York Times said its sources described the attacks as causing relatively little damage and largely "symbolic" in nature. Instead, the blasts served as a warning of the damage Israel could inflict on Iran if it wanted. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi (C) chairs a cabinet meeting. Saeed Sajjadi/Iranian Presidency/dpa Palestinians search for bodies and survivors after Israeli air strikes in southern Gaza on Tuesday China has sharply criticised the US for vetoing a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Beijing said the move sent the "wrong message" and effectively gave a "green light to the continued slaughter". The White House said the Algerian-proposed resolution would "jeopardise" talks to end the war. The US has proposed its own temporary ceasefire resolution, which also warned Israel not to invade the city of Rafah. Algeria's resolution was backed by 13 of the 15 members of the UN Security Council - with the UK abstaining. Under the council's rules, any resolution that is vetoed by one of its five permanent members - which includes the US - is immediately thrown out. Israel launched its operations in Gaza following an attack by Hamas on southern Israel on 7 October, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 240 others taken hostage. The Israeli military campaign has left more than 29,000 people dead in Gaza, according to the Palestinian territory's Hamas-run health ministry. More than a million displaced Palestinians - about half of the Strip's population - are crammed into Rafah after being forced to seek shelter there. The southern city, which borders Egypt, was home to only 250,000 people before the war. Many of the displaced are living in makeshift shelters or tents in squalid conditions, with scarce access to safe drinking water or food. The US decision to block Algeria's resolution has been met with widespread condemnation. China's UN ambassador Zhang Jun said the claim that the motion would interfere with diplomatic negotiations was "totally untenable". "Given the situation on the ground, the continued passive avoidance of an immediate ceasefire is nothing different from giving a green light to the continued slaughter," he said. "The spillover of the conflict is destabilising the entire Middle East region, leading to rising risk of a wider war," he added. "Only by extinguishing the flames of war in Gaza can we prevent the fires of hell from engulfing the entire region." Algeria's top UN diplomat declared that "unfortunately the Security Council failed once again". "Examine your conscience, how will history judge you," Amar Bendjama added. Some US allies have also been critical of the decision to veto Algeria's proposed resolution. France's UN envoy Nicolas de Riviere expressed regret that the resolution had not been adopted "given the disastrous situation on the ground". Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Washington's ambassador to the UN, said it was not the right time to call for an immediate ceasefire while negotiations between Hamas and Israel were continuing. Her UK counterpart, Barbara Woodward, said the plan could "actually make a ceasefire less likely" by endangering talks. The alternative resolution proposed by the US, meanwhile, calls for a temporary ceasefire "as soon as practicable" and on the condition that all hostages are released, as well as urging the lifting of barriers on aid reaching Gaza. The White House previously avoided the word "ceasefire" during UN votes on the war. It is unclear if or when the Security Council will vote on the proposal. The draft also states that a major ground offensive in Rafah would result in more harm to civilians and their further displacement, including potentially into neighbouring countries - a reference to Egypt. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday he was "committed to continuing the war until we achieve all of its goals" and no pressure could change it. The UN has warned that a planned Israeli offensive in the city could lead to a "slaughter". The Israeli military has previously insisted it only targets Hamas fighters. Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz said the ground assault would be launched unless Hamas freed all hostages by 10 March. The failure of Algeria's proposed resolution comes days after Qatar, one of the countries mediating talks aimed at brokering a pause to the fighting in Gaza, said they had not been "very promising" recently. The UK has air-dropped aid into Gaza for the first time since war broke out after striking a deal with Jordan. Four tonnes of supplies including medicines, food and fuel were delivered into the strip on a Jordanian Air Force plane on Wednesday. Packages fitted with parachutes floated down to the Tal Al-Hawa Hospital in northern Gaza. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said the aid would save lives and keep the hospital running. The UK has until now only sent aid to Gaza by land and sea, but northern Gaza - a wasteland after nearly five months of war - is impossible to reach. The World Food Programme has suspended deliveries there because its convoys had endured "complete chaos and violence", the organisation said. There is a heavy Israeli military presence in the area and much of the population were forced south. However, an estimated 300,000 Palestinians remain in northern Gaza with little food or water and the UN has warned for months of a looming famine there. The British Jordanian delivery contained diesel, critical medical equipment and ration packs for patients and medical staff. As the last pallet sailed into the night sky, the Jordanian air crew saluted. It landed right on target, they said. Banking sharply over the Mediterranean sea in two passes, the Royal Jordanian Air Force Hercules aircraft dropped the four tonnes of British aid directly into northern Gaza, just after sunset. The pallets - fitted with parachutes and GPS trackers to ensure they reached the hospital - were bound for an area just to the north of a Jordanian army field hospital in Gaza City. The UK Foreign Office said it signed an agreement with Jordan earlier this week which will see 1m ($1.2m) worth of UK aid sent to Gaza. Commenting on the deal, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said: "Thousands of patients will benefit and the fuel will enable this vital hospital to continue its life saving work. "However, the situation in Gaza is desperate and significantly more aid is needed - and fast. We are calling for an immediate humanitarian pause to allow additional aid into Gaza as quickly as possible and bring hostages home." Paul Rad, right, an associate professor in computer science at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, and doctoral research assistant Paul Young discuss their generative artificial intelligence model that processes scans to help identify plaque buildup that may lead to heart attacks. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Paul Rad, right, an associate professor in computer science at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and doctoral research assistant Paul Young shown at the universitys School of Data Science downtown on Feb. 14 are working to develop an artificial intelligence algorithm capable of determining whether a patient is at risk of having a heart attack. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Paul Rad, an associate professor in computer science at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, discusses a generative artificial intelligence model that processes scans to help identify plaque buildup that may lead to heart attacks. Kaylee Greenlee Beal Paul Young, a doctoral research assistant working at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, discusses a generative artificial intelligence model that processes scans to help identify plaque buildup that may lead to heart attacks. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Paul Rad, right, an associate professor in computer science at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, and doctoral research assistant Paul Young discuss their generative artificial intelligence model that processes scans to help identify plaque buildup that may lead to heart attacks. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Paul Rad, an associate professor in computer science at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, discusses a generative artificial intelligence model that processes scans to help identify plaque buildup that may lead to heart attacks. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Decades ago, artificial intelligence was little more than science fiction. Today, a team of local researchers is working to save lives by putting AI into heart health care. An AI algorithm under development by Paul Rad, associate director of research at the University of Texas at San Antonios School of Data Science, and Dr. Marc Feldman, professor of medicine with UT Health San Antonio, would help doctors determine whether their patients with coronary heart disease are at risk of suffering a heart attack by examining the buildup of plaque in their arteries. Paul Young, a doctoral research assistant at UTSA, is working with Rad to craft the algorithm. Basically, Rad and Young are teaching the AI to detect warning signs that would be imperceptible to the human eye in high-definition optical scans of arteries, captured by inserting catheters that gather reflections of infrared light. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Feldman is supplying Rad and Young with about 2,000 scans that he and his team collected over the past five years; he believes it is the largest supply of such images in the world. The data will help the AI learn which characteristics signal an increased risk of heart attack. They hope the technique will help doctors across the U.S. make smarter treatment decisions for their patients, such as figuring out when and where to implant a stent in a patient. ALSO READ: UTSA degree program aims to train next generation of cyber defenders Computer vision technology and AI have come to a point that they can discover patterns much better than human eyes, Rad said. Thats the exciting part of this. A native of Iran, Rad studied AI as an undergraduate in the 1990s, when computers werent powerful enough to do much with it. After immigrating to the U.S., he worked for companies such as Microsoft and Dell, he said. In the latest chapter of his career as a UTSA professor, he has been able to return to his passion for AI. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He and Young recently sat to discuss recent advances in AI, the challenges of developing their algorithm and whether AI could eventually make medical decisions. The following has been edited for brevity and clarity. Q: In laymans terms, explain how youre developing this. What is the process like? Young: Youre going to need your data. Thats a critical part. Without data, you cant do anything in AI. Then youre going to need to select a model. You can test the quality and tweak different ones to see which work best with your program. You read the latest literature to determine what people have used for similar problems. Q: Your dataset would be a huge number of images, right? Are you basically feeding it the images and telling it what to look for? Young: Yeah. You do some preprocessing and stuff like that, but ultimately you have a goal and you have your input, and then you have a metric that compares what your output is to your goal. Thats how it adjusts itself to better predict what youd like it to predict. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rad: At UTSA, most of my focus is on what we call deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence that looks at learning by experience. We tell the machine what to do, provide experimental samples, and the machine uses an optimization algorithm to discover the common patterns across the images. Its similar to when we show our kids what is a cat versus a dog. Were not telling them, This is differentiating the cat from a dog; we just show them images of cats versus images of dogs, and the brain automatically makes the connections between the patterns. As a result, over time, it learns. Q: And these images are so complicated that its hard for the human eye to draw conclusions from them. Young: Its very subtle. Its not complicated like "Wheres Waldo?" Its subtle as in shades of gray. Q: How did you come to collaborate with Dr. Feldman? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rad: We got introduced through colleagues. He came to visit us at UTSA, and we had a discussion around this topic. He described his projects. In my lab, our goal is to build AI that helps humanity. Amazingly, one part that is personal to me: It was at the time that my dad passed away because of a heart attack. This is the good work that Dr. Feldman does for humanity. We got to help him see how to accelerate this effort to bring artificial intelligence, to bring this goodness, to thousands of people that may need it in the future or even myself. Q: How are the images captured? Rad: In this case, its not an ultrasound. They go inside the body of the potential patient by capturing the light from the artery, trying to construct the plaque that could be around the heart and identify the material as a result of reflection of the light. The algorithm that Paul is developing would identify those materials that could lead to bad consequences. Q: Is AI currently being used like this in other aspects of medicine? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Young: All sorts of ways. Analyzing CAT scans. A lot of segmentation-type stuff, like finding tumors. You know, you have a lot of scans, but it can be just blurry. You see these nodules, and they can really bring out what youre looking for. So tumors is a big thing. Q: How long has AI been used like this? Has it been going on for a while? Rad: In 2017, we did a study on the retina. We worked with another team in California, and we developed an algorithm that for the first time we were able to discover a pattern in an image of the back of the eyes. The algorithm was superior to the human vision. If you look at our human vision, there are other species like birds that their vision is more sensitive. They could fly and see things on Earth that we, as humans, our eyes were not designed that way. Basically, this technology now has a superhuman capability as far as understanding those patterns, helping a human expert doctor to discover things in different fields, from all types of imaging that they use in the health care system. It could be from an X-ray from our teeth, or it could be from the retinas in our eyes. Q: Why is this happening now? What brought the technology to this point? Rad: Things are getting better and better day by day due to multiple reasons. One, thanks to COVID, our systems got to thinking more about sharing data with each other, and these algorithms are very data-driven. Our health care is more going toward digital records and things like that; as a result, more accessible data between hospitals. ALSO READ: San Antonio startup seeks to streamline scheduling dental appointments The other side, computationally we are getting better. It used to be Moores law that our processors were getting (twice as capable) every 18 months. Now, we have what we call GPUs, or graphical processors. Thanks to companies such as AMD and Nvidia, these technologies are advancing very fast. As a result, it allows us computationally to process all this data and learn those patterns. Q: What steps lie ahead to put your algorithm into practice? Rad: The process, especially when it comes to health care, is very extensive. At the end of the day, we want these tools to not take over the human decision. The goal is to build a tool that is complementary and teaming with the expert to help the expert to accelerate what they are good at such as Dr. Feldman. Part of the process is to start with what we call the data collection having data that a doctor made a decision on and knows the outcome. A lot of those could be OCT images that they get from the patients. And Dr. Feldman actually had some patients that donated their heart after the disease. As a result, not only do they have images inside the body, they also have the slices of the heart after the patient donated the heart to see exactly how the formation and structure of the artery was. These two angles give a very unique perspective of how this condition evolves, which makes Dr. Feldmans data very unique compared with prior work. Well work with a lot of medical doctors. In this case, most of the effort sits on Paul working with Dr. Feldman and a network of pathologists. (They will) rate those patterns of different plaques in those images. Its a very intensive process, collecting the information and marking it and trying to have these golden images of good data. Because bad data could lead to bad decisions; good data could lead to good decisions. Q: Do you foresee a future in which AI will make medical decisions? Young: You have to realize theres degrees of decisions. Even something as simple as antilock brakes makes decisions for you, you know? So its how large-scale or small-scale decisions youre talking about. Rad: Amazingly, over the last 10 years in the AI space, weve seen a lot of advancements that are good and respectful and align AI with the human intention. It could help us to advance humanity and solve problems that were very challenging for humans in the past. If you look at humanity, where we started from inventing fire, which basically changed us and evolved us over years and years, I foresee that in 50 or 100 years, we will have AI that assists us in more advanced types of activities. But I hope we dont get to a point that we lose our control that we make sure that these AIs are very much aligned by human values. (Bloomberg) -- Italys government is considering selling a stake of up to 10% in lender Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena SpA in a bid to cut debt and facilitate consolidation in the banking sector. Most Read from Bloomberg The state, which owns about 39% of the bailed-out bank, is assessing the move through an accelerated book-building, placing shares on the market as in a previous sale, according to people familiar with the discussions. A sale could take place as soon as April, though no final decision has been made yet, the people said. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is due to present her governments latest economic targets and budget framework in early April, and a new sale of Paschi shares could help underpin those targets and improve Italys standing with the European Union as it pushes members to clean up their finances. While Italys deficit is on a downward path, its debt remains stuck at 140% of economic output. A spokesperson for the Italian government declined to comment. Meloni is weighing a new sale as the lock-up period connected with the governments previous divestment of shares in the lender has now expired, the people said, noting that a final decision has not yet been made. Italian newspaper MF previously reported that the state was weighing the sale of a further 10% by May 20. Rome remains committed to merging Paschi, considered the worlds oldest bank, with a similar-sized peer, and a relatively small stake sale now would make the remaining holding less expensive for a potential buyer, said the people, who asked not to be named discussing a confidential issue. A final decision will depend on market opportunities, the people said, adding that Paschis recent strong results could make the sale process easier. The government has said it is planning to sell off its full holding by the end of this year, as agreed with the EU. Italy last year sold about 25% of the lender for approximately 920 million ($1 billion) and it has been searching for an exit strategy for years, including a failed bid to merge it with UniCredit SpA. Founded in 1472, Paschi was first bailed out by the state 15 years ago after it was hit by souring loans and derivatives deals that backfired. In the following decade it struggled to deliver consistent profit, given limited room for maneuver under terms set by the EU. Chief Executive Luigi Lovaglio has shown considerable progress in making Paschi more appealing to investors after a turnaround and years of restructuring. The bank announced earlier this month that its planning to pay its first dividend in 13 years. --With assistance from Jeff Black. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. State lawmakers are considering legislation that would create a utility authority to oversee Jackson's beleaguered water system. The Mississippi Senate Accountability, Efficiency and Transparency Committee on Wednesday moved forward a bill for the second year in a row that would establish a water utility authority for the Jackson Water system. However, the bill already faces fierce opposition from Sen. David Blount, D-Hinds County, who said he was not even aware of the bill seeking to affect his district prior to the Wednesday meeting. Here we go again Here we go again, Blount said. This is a bill that is focused solely on where I live, where I represent, and this is my first time seeing it. There have been no conversations about this bill with anybody in the Legislature, anybody in leadership, anyone who represents the area affected by this bill. In 2022, the O.B. Curtis Water Treatment Plant, which treats water for much of Jackson and surrounding cities for drinking, bathing and cooking, completely failed after the Pearl River flooded due to heavy rainfall. The ensuing crisis caused repeated outages for the citys 150,000 residents who went days and weeks without water to drink, cook, bathe or flush toilets. Sen. David Parker, R-Olive Branch, addresses Senate members regarding a bill he authored to set up a nonprofit regional governing board for the Jackson water system at the Capitol in Jackson in 2023. Parker is now pushing for the legislation again this year. The United States Justice Department, as a result, stepped in and appointed Third Party Water Manager Ted Henifin to oversee the system and Henifin subsequently created the management organization JXN Water. Currently no concrete timeline exists on when the federal government will relinquish control of the citys water utility. In July 2023, the DOJ also gave Henifin management of the citys sewer maintenance. Read more about Jackson Water Crisis Jackson water crisis: State of emergency, governor press update, all Jackson schools go virtual During Wednesday's meeting, bill sponsor and AET Chair David Parker, R-Olive Branch, told fellow lawmakers the bill that failed in the House last year would seek to establish a public utility authority with a nine-person board, as well as a president to shadow Henifin until the federal government may agree to sell back the system over to the city or state. As this moves along, what I think is going to happen is as conditions get better, people move on, Parker said. There's less talk about (the water crisis) in the Capitol this year than there was last year. I think to not move forward and to kick the can further down the road is going to make the can harder to kick, and it's going to make it a more difficult process as we go along. Of the nine board members the legislation would create, five would be appointed by the governor, consisting of a restaurant owner, an owner of a non-healthcare business with no less than 200 employees, an employee of a local nonprofit, a clergy member who leads a group of people in faith and another person who just lives in Jackson. Another four members would be appointed by the lieutenant governor, and those members would consist of a small business owner, a healthcare business employee, an employee of a post-secondary school and another at-large resident of Jackson. The president would be appointed by the board in conjunction with approval from a federal court under DOJ. Parker said in conversations he has had with officials, it has been indicated that the federal court could sell back the water system by around 2027. Opposition to the takeover Blount, who has been representing Hinds County for 17 years, told Parker he thought his bill came far too early, and that Jackson residents are currently satisfied with JXN Water and Henifin at the helm of the citys water system for the time being. The basic effect of this bill for the next three-to-four years is nothing at all, Blount said. Judge Wingate has appointed Ted Henifin as the third-party operator, and I think he is doing a good job This bill is too early, and when it is time to come to a solution, that solution needs to come from the people who live here. Without mincing words, Parker fired back at Blount with a retort of his own, claiming the bill would do nothing but good for Jackson and surrounding areas that use the citys water utility. I am of the belief that when you move into this system," Parker said, "you have every single right that someone else has in this system that has lived here longer because when you get the water for this system every day like I do and like my daughter does in this system, we have the ability and the right to make considerations and judgments about what needs to be done. Parker said that Blount did not come to speak with him about the bill last year even after he had become aware of it. I will say that last session, there was not a time that you walked into my office to sit down and talk about this bill after I introduced it, Parker said. Last year, the bill faced large opposition from Senate Democrats, passing by a 34-15 vote before heading over to the House. Upon arrival, the bill was amended to accommodate both legislative and local opposition from City of Jackson officials, but the legislation was never brought up for full consideration. The new bill will now be taken up and considered by the full Senate. See latest Senate bill Mississippi Legislature passes bill that would require prior authorization for some prescriptions, procedures if governor signs 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: Jackson MS Water Authority bill considered by MS Senate for second time A Jacksonville City Council member is calling for limits on liquor outlets and vape shops in vulnerable parts of the city to reduce alcohol-related problems and addictions. Business owners and residents in northwest Jacksonville told Action News Jax these businesses shouldnt be in their neighborhoods. Councilwoman JuCoby Pittman said shes seeking to have alcohol and tobacco zones in her district. She said she doesnt want vape shop or liquor store to come close to buildings like a daycare or a church. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< They dont want any more liquor stores and no more tobacco stores. We have enough in district 10, which is a mega district, said Councilwoman Pittman. Councilwoman Pittman is tired of seeing these kinds of businesses come to her district. Action News Jax first told you the Jacksonville City Council was forced to buy a building slated to be a liquor store in Brentwood following community pushback. Before that, the community fought and won another battle against a liquor store headed to Soutel Drive two years ago in Northwest Jacksonville. Now, another potential liquor store or a vape shop is planned for that same area which is 20 feet away from a bookstore. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Liquor stores to use are the last thing we want in our area, said businessman Robert Rukab. Enough is enough. We do not need another liquor store in this area, agreed neighbor Leola William. Many residents dont feel comfortable having these kinds of businesses near their homes, and have expressed their displeasure numerous times. Council at Large Matt Carlucci mentioned the importance of the council knowing when to vote for the people. They dont want these kinds of establishments in their neighborhood. Its up to the council to know when to vote yes and when to vote no, said Council at Large Matt Carlucci. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] We want to have a strategic plan that we are working on with the residents in that area. The resident should detail, along with the council member, what they want in their area, said Councilwoman Pittman. Councilwoman Pittman will start holding meetings to discuss the best solutions to combat this concern. 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. Tuesday morning, an attempted strong arm robbery occurred at the Everbank off of 104 New Berlin Road. During the investigation, the suspect was identified as Michael McMillan and he was arrested. Police reports state that the original charge of attempted robbery by sudden snatching is incorrect. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< On Tuesday, patrol officers responded to the bank in reference to an attempted robbery to the business. The investigation revealed, the suspect, later identified as Michael McMillan, entered the branch earlier in the morning. After only a short time spent inside the branch, McMillan walked out and went to a neighboring business for a coffee. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] A short time later, McMillan came back to the branch. Upon entering the bank, McMillan approached the teller and told her he needed to withdraw some money. At that time, she slid a withdrawal slip to McMillan and allowed him to complete the blocks on the slip. After McMillan filled out the withdrawal slip, he slid it back to the teller. The suspect then turned around and walked out of the bank without obtaining any money. Once McMillan walked out of the bank, the teller yelled at the armed security guard, lock the door, lock the door. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Upon hearing Crenshaw make those statements, the security officer gave chase to the suspect. He stopped the suspect right in front of the branch and confronted him about the incident. He then requested to see the suspects Florida Identification, so the suspect produced the identification which showed he was Michael Sean McMillan. 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. A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company Built in 1941, the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park comes with four beds, four baths and a four-car tandem garage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The home, now available for $2.75 million, also comes with a separate guest suite for "comfort and privacy" and a "massive" covered patio. A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company "Tucked away on a private street, this Olmos Park residence epitomizes quintessential traditional architecture, offering ultimate privacy on an expansive estate-sized lot," real estate broker Jason Glast wrote in the home's description. "Versatile living spaces unfold elegantly, designed to accommodate a variety of lifestyles and needs with ease and sophistication." Advertisement Article continues below this ad More real estate: San Antonio real estate Several recent updates to the home marry the home's traditional charm with contemporary elegance, per Glast. Formal rooms allow for entertaining opportunities while the home's study allows for peaceful retreat. The primary bedroom features dual bathrooms. A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company A photo of the home at 10 Ironwood Road in Olmos Park. Jason Glast | Phyllis Browning Company Outside the home is a patio overlooking a swimming pool and heritage oaks. The garage allows for both vehicles and storage. The Bexar County Appraisal District last year determined the home's value as $1.955 million. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "This home is a rare find, combining privacy, luxury, and the epitome of classic elegance in a sublime location," Glast wrote. WASHINGTON James Biden, President Joe Bidens brother, sat down with House investigators for a closed-door interview on Wednesday as Republicans continue their monthslong impeachment investigation into the president. GOP lawmaker allege Joe Biden financially benefited from his familys foreign business dealings, but they have yet to produce evidence directly implicating him. James Biden in his prepared opening statement obtained by USA TODAY vehemently denied allegations Joe Biden was directly involved with his business ventures. The president's brother said he "has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities. None. I have nothing to hide," James Biden added, explaining that he hoped lawmakers would have "the information to conclude that the negative and destructive assumptions about me and my relationship with my brother Joe are wrong." Leaving the meeting, Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, was skeptical about whether James Biden was telling the truth Wednesday. He told reporters "he's certainly said some things that make you wonder if he's maybe conveniently forgetting something." James Biden on Wednesday told Republicans their impeachment inquiry has "no basis." Nevertheless, GOP lawmakers have promised to plow ahead with the investigation, and they're set to question the presidents son, Hunter Biden, in a deposition on Feb. 28. James Biden, brother of US President Joe Biden, arrives for a deposition before the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees on President Biden's impeachment inquiry in Washington, DC, February 21, 2024. What did James Biden tell Republicans? James Biden made it absolutely clear that there was a wall ... between him and Joe Biden in terms of his business activities, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, told reporters. Joe Biden was not an investor, he was not a partner. He just had nothing to do with the business ventures that (James) Biden was engaged in, Raskin said. In his prepared opening statement, James Biden also attacked Republicans wide-reaching allegations against his business practices and whether the president was involved in them. At no point, James Biden said in his opening statement, has he asked my brother to take any official action on behalf of me, my business associates, or anyone else. James Biden also denied any possible malicious activities in regards to a pair of checks he used to pay the president in 2017 and 2018, $40,000 and $200,000 respectively. The checks were marked as a loan repayment, but GOP investigators have expressed doubt that was their purpose. Bank records previously reviewed by USA TODAY suggest the checks were indeed repayments for loans the president previously made to his sibling. They were short-term loans that I received from Joe when he was a private citizen, and I repaid them within weeks. He had no information at all about the source of the funds I used to repay him. The complete explanation is that Joe lent me money, and I repaid him as soon as I had the funds to do so, James Bidens statement read. James Biden, the brother of President Joe Biden, center, and Attorney Paul Fishman, right, walk back into a private interview with House Republicans following a break at Thomas P. O'Neill House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024. What did Republicans ask James Biden? Walking into the Wednesday interview, Jordan told reporters Republicans planned to ask James Biden about his various business affairs and "the money, the business, the (Biden) brand." Republicans also examined whether Joe Biden as president conspired "to cover up" his alleged involvement. James Biden maintained he never sought to leverage his family name in his work, saying in his opening statement: In every business venture in which I have been involved, I have relied on my own talent, judgment, skill, and personal relationships." Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., a member of both the House Oversight Committee and House Judiciary Committee, had doubts about James Biden's statements but did not immediately cite evidence. He instead told reporters to wait for a transcript of the interview. One business dealing Republicans have been investigating is James Biden's involvement with Americore, a now-bankrupt health care startup. Carol Fox, a bankruptcy trustee that investigators interviewed last year, testified that James Biden promised he could secure funding for the company from the Middle East by leveraging his last name, but the money never came. The two parties agreed on a $350,000 settlement in an ensuing lawsuit. Republicans also have questioned James Biden's business affairs with CEFC, a now-bankrupt Chinese energy conglomerate and whether Joe Biden was improperly involved. One of Hunter Biden's former business associates, Tony Bobulinski, testified to the committee earlier this month that Joe Biden "enabled" those business affairs. James Biden, however, dismissed Bobulinski before lawmakers as someone who was "tremendously arrogant; was often disrespectful and a bad listener; acted like a stubborn bully." James Biden accused him of being aggrieved over being cut out of the family's deals. Democrats have echoed that sentiment and questioned Bobulinski's credibility as a witness since his testimony earlier this month. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, arrives for a closed-door deposition with the House Oversight Committee at the Thomas P. O'Neill Jr. Federal Building on February 21, 2024 in Washington, DC. James Bidens interview comes after key source indicted for lying James Bidens sitdown with investigators also came days after a former FBI informant was indicted on charges he lied about Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Bidens involvement with a Ukrainian energy firm, Burisma. The informant, Alexander Smirnov, was repeatedly touted by Republicans as a credible source who corroborated their allegations that Joe Biden was improperly involved with parts of Hunter Bidens work. In a court memo, prosecutors also said Smirnov admitted he was in contact with Russian intelligence officials and said Russian officials passed on the information about Joe and Hunter Biden. While prosecutors noted Smirnovs claims were not trivial, the memo does not specify whether his claims could be verified. Republican investigators have tried to downplay Smirnovs indictment and have said his charges change little to nothing about their impeachment inquiry. It is what it is, Jordan told reporters on Wednesday morning of the indictment. It doesnt change the fundamental facts. Raskin, early on in the interview, told reporters the room felt like a subdued affair. It feels to me as if everyone knows the impeachment investigation is over, Raskin said. Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., center, arrives for a private interview with James Biden, the brother of President Joe Biden, at Thomas P. O'Neill House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: James Biden denies Joe Biden was involved in foreign dealing: Takeaways James Biden says his brother 'has never had any involvement' or any 'financial interest' in business ventures FIRST ON FOX: James Biden testified Wednesday that his brother, President Biden, "has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest" in his business ventures, Fox News Digital has learned. The presidents brother arrived on Capitol Hill on Wednesday morning for a closed-door deposition before the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees. Fox News Digital obtained the first brothers opening statement. James Biden, brother of President Biden, arrives for a deposition before the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees on President Biden's impeachment inquiry in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. "I have had a 50-year career in a variety of business ventures," James Biden said in his opening statement. "Joe Biden has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities. None." James Biden went on to defend his brother, the president, saying that because of his "intimate knowledge of my brothers personal integrity and character, as well as my own strong ethics, I have always kept my professional life separate from our close personal relationship." James Biden, brother of President Biden, arrives for a deposition before the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees on President Biden's impeachment inquiry in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. "I never asked my brother to take any official action on behalf of me, my business associates, or anyone else," James Biden said. "In every business venture in which I have been involved, I have relied on my own talent, judgment, skill, and personal relationships and never my status as Joe Bidens brother." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP He added: "Those who have said or thought otherwise were either mistaken, ill informed, or flat-out lying." James Biden stressed that Joe Biden "played no role, was not involved with, and received no benefits" from his work with Chinese energy company CEFC, or the healthcare company Americore. "With my appearance here today, the Committees will have the information to conclude that the negative and destructive assumptions about me and my relationship with my brother Joe are wrong," James Biden said. House Republicans have heard testimony from a number of the first son's former business associates, like Tony Bobulinski, who testified before the committees earlier this month that Joe Biden was involved in the family's business ventures. He also testified that he personally met with him. Days before Bobulinski's testimony, another former business associate, Rob Walker, testified that Joe Biden met with the chairman of the Chinese energy firm CEFC that his brother and son did business with. After Walker's testimony, the House Oversight Committee said it was able to "now confirm Joe Biden met with nearly every foreign national who funneled money to his son." With regard to CEFC, James Biden testified that he decided to become involved with Hunter Bidens efforts to develop a business venture with the Chinese energy firm during a difficult time in his nephews life. "At the time, it was clear that Hunter was having substantial personal struggles and was in deep emotional pain dealing with Beaus death and the end of his marriage. I agreed to help, and I hoped that by staying nearby, I could provide Hunter with guidance and additional emotional support." James Biden did confirm that he worked on the structure of the joint-venture with CEFC, along with his nephew Hunter Biden and business associates Walker, Bobulinski and James Gilliar. He testified that he and Hunter "were responsible for identifying potential investment opportunities for the joint venture." "At the end of the day, CEFC was a straightforward business venture albeit less successful than we had hoped. I was involved in the project from early 2017 through 2018, a period during which my brother was a private citizen who held no office. I added substantial value and identified real opportunities," James Biden said. "There was never any effort to disguise that our joint venture was with a Chinese company. We made that fact clear to everyone with whom we spoke," he continued. "In short, my role and experience with CEFC bears no resemblance to the false narrative that some have promoted. My brother played no role, was not involved with, and received no benefits from my work with CEFC." So far in the investigation into Biden family businesses, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said he has found that Biden family members, their business associates and their "related companies" received "significant payments from individuals and companies in China, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Romania." Comer said the committee has learned throughout its investigation that the Biden family and their business associates brought in more than $24 million between 2014 and 2019 by "selling Joe Biden as the brand around the world." Republicans have also focused on a "$200,000 direct payment" in the form of a "personal check" from James Biden and Sara Biden. That check was labeled "loan repayment." "On March 1, 2018, Americore wired a $200,000 loan into James and Sara Bidens personal bank account not their business bank account," Comer continued. "And then, on the very same day, James Biden wrote a $200,000 check from this same personal bank account to Joe Biden." "Americore a distressed company loaned money to James Biden, who then sent it to Joe Biden," Comer said. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. Original article source: James Biden says his brother 'has never had any involvement' or any 'financial interest' in business ventures James Biden arrives on Capitol Hill to testify in brother's impeachment inquiry behind closed doors James Biden is expected to testify in the impeachment inquiry against his older brother, President Biden behind closed doors on Wednesday morning. The presidents brother arrived on Capitol Hill for the hearing shortly before 10:30 a.m. ET, after the start of his transcribed interview was delayed. JOE BIDEN RECEIVED $40K IN 'LAUNDERED CHINA MONEY' FROM BROTHER IN 2017, COMER SAYS James Biden, also referred to as Jim Biden, had been subpoenaed in November to appear for a deposition as part of the impeachment inquiry prior to it being formalized by the full House. James Biden arrives to testify at a congressional panel as part of the House's impeachment inquiry of his brother President Biden James Biden was involved in the Biden family business ventures with his nephew, Hunter Biden. So far, during the investigation, House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said he has found that Biden family members, their business associates and their "related companies" received "significant payments from individuals and companies in China, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Romania." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Comer said the committee has learned throughout its investigation that the Biden family and their business associates brought in more than $24 million between 2014 and 2019 by "selling Joe Biden as the brand around the world." James Biden is expected to be questioned on whether Joe Biden was involved in the family's foreign business ventures. James Biden is also expected to be questioned on "loan repayment" checks one for $200,000 and another for $40,000 that he wrote to the president. JAMES BIDEN GIVEN LOAN, DIDN'T PROVIDE SERVICES TO AMERICORE DESPITE PROMISES TO USE LAST NAME, TRUSTEE SAYS Comer said his panel had uncovered evidence that the president, in 2018, received a "$200,000 direct payment" in the form of a "personal check" from James Biden and Sara Biden. That check was labeled "loan repayment." Comer said that James Biden "received $600,000 in loans from Americore a financially distressed and failing rural hospital operator." "On March 1, 2018, Americore wired a $200,000 loan into James and Sara Bidens personal bank account not their business bank account," he continued. "And then, on the very same day, James Biden wrote a $200,000 check from this same personal bank account to Joe Biden." President Joe Biden speaks during the United Auto Workers union conference at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC, on January 24, 2024. Comer said James Biden "wrote this check to Joe Biden as a loan repayment." "Americore a distressed company loaned money to James Biden, who then sent it to Joe Biden," Comer said. The White House said the committee found that as a private citizen, the president loaned his brother his own money when his brother needed it, and after reviewing bank records, there is a record that he was repaid. Comer also said the president received another $40,000 "loan repayment" from James Biden, which the chairman described as "laundered China money." COMER RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT $200K 'DIRECT PAYMENT' FROM JAMES BIDEN TO JOE BIDEN IN 2018 Comer said the "money trail" began in July 2017 when Hunter Biden demanded a $10 million payment from a CEFC associate. In a WhatsApp message, he claimed "he was sitting with his father and that the Biden network would turn on his associate if he didnt pony up the money," Comer explained. Hunter Biden in the WhatsApp message allegedly told a Chinese business associate from Chinese energy company CEFC that he and his father would ensure "you will regret not following my direction." Hunter requested the $10 million wire for his joint-venture with CEFC called SinoHawk Holdings. US President Joe Biden sits in the golf cart while golfing at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on June 4, 2023. Biden is golfing with his brother James Biden. "I am sitting here with my father, and we would like to understand why the commitment made has not been fulfilled," Hunter Biden told Henry Zhao, the director of Chinese asset management firm Harvest Fund Management. "And, Z, if I get a call or text from anyone involved in this other than you, Zhang or the chairman, I will make certain that between the man sitting next to me and every person he knows and my ability to forever hold a grudge that you will regret not following my direction." Zhao responded, in part, "CEFC is willing to cooperate with the family." Comer, citing bank records he and his committee have obtained, said that on Aug. 8, 2017, the $5 million in funds were sent to Hudson West III, a joint-venture established by Hunter Biden and CEFC associate Gongwen Dong. The same day, Hudson West III sent $400,000 to Owasco, P.C. a separate entity controlled and owned by Hunter Biden, Comer said. BIDEN MET WITH CHAIRMAN OF CHINESE ENERGY FIRM HUNTER DID BUSINESS WITH IN 2017, EX-ASSOCIATE TESTIFIES Days later, on Aug. 14, 2017, Hunter Biden wired $150,000 to Lion Hall Group, a company owned by James Biden and his wife Sara Biden. By Aug. 28, 2017, Comer said Sara Biden withdrew $50,000 in cash from Lion Hall Group and later deposited it into her and James Bidens personal checking account. Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., arrives for the House Oversight and Accountability Committee hearing titled "Unsuitable Litigation: Oversight of Third-Party Litigation Funding" in Rayburn Building on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. "A few days later, Sara Biden cut a check to Joe Biden for $40,000," Comer said, referring to the Sept. 3, 2017, check his committee obtained. "The memo line of the check said, loan repayment." James Biden's expected testimony comes days after his former business associate Tony Bobulinski testified before the committee, telling congressional investigators that Joe Biden was involved in the family's business ventures, and testifying that he personally met with him. Days before Bobulinski's testimony, another former business associate, Rob Walker, testified that Joe Biden met with the chairman of the Chinese energy firm his brother and son did business with. After Walker's testimony, the House Oversight Committee said it was able to "now confirm Joe Biden met with nearly every foreign national who funneled money to his son." Meanwhile, the president, last week, called for the House impeachment inquiry to be dropped, calling it "an outrageous effort from the beginning." Original article source: James Biden arrives on Capitol Hill to testify in brother's impeachment inquiry behind closed doors With his trial just two weeks away, James Crumbley is fighting to block jurors from any testimony or evidence involving his teenage son's mental health, journal or text messages he sent to a friend and his mother several months before he shot up Oxford High School. Such evidence was allowed in his wife's trial, which ended with a jury convicting Jennifer Crumbley on four counts of involuntary manslaughter for the deaths of four students murdered by her son at Oxford High School on Nov. 30, 2021. James Crumbley now faces the same potential fate as his wife, as he goes to trial on identical charges for buying his son the gun the teen used in the massacre and for not disclosing that information to school officials when given the opportunity. James Crumbley, father of the Oxford High School shooter, makes his way into the Oakland County Courtroom of Judge Cheryl Matthews on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, for a procedural hearing. His lawyer, meanwhile, is fighting to keep out evidence that legal experts have argued should never have been allowed at the wife's trial specifically the shooter's journal and text messages he sent to a friend, in which he alleged that his parents ignored his mental health troubles. The shooter won't testify, so the defense can't question his messages With James Crumbley returning to court Wednesday for a hearing on his upcoming trial, his lawyer is working against time to keep out evidence that she believes could unfairly hurt her client. In a Tuesday filing, defense attorney Mariell Lehman challenged the admissibility of the shooter's texts and journal, maintaining it is wrong to let jurors see these excerpts if the defense cannot challenge them because the shooter has refused to testify. At issue for the defense is that Ethan Crumbley has opted not testify at his parents' trials, which is his right. But it also means that the defense can't challenge what the boy wrote to his friend or in his journal, including this claim: "I have zero help for my mental problems and it's causing me to shoot up the f------ school. The jury foreperson in Jennifer Crumbley's trial noted in media interviews that the journal "played a huge part" during deliberations. Multiple legal experts have argued that the shooter's journal and text messages are grounds for overturning the mother's conviction. Defense attorney Lehman just wants them kept out of her client's trial, arguing that James Crumbley has a constitutional right to confront his accuser in this case, his son. Jennifer Crumbley, sat to the left of attorney Mariell Lehman as her husband, James Crumbley sat to the right in the Oakland County courtroom of Judge Cheryl Matthews on March 22, 2022, regarding pretrial matters. James Crumbley not only never saw his son's journal and texts, Lehman argues, but was never aware of the claims the boy was making. "As someone accused of multiple crimes, Mr. Crumbley has a right to confrontation which is granted by the United States and Michigan Constitutions," Lehman wrote in her latest filing. "Admitting evidence, without Mr. Crumbley having the opportunity to cross-examine the writer, violates his constitutional rights to due process, confrontation, and to present a full and complete defense." Defense wants to admit some medical records of shooter Ethan Crumbley, who was 15 at the time of the massacre, pleaded guilty to all his crimes last year and is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole. His parents, who were charged just days after the shooting, had planned on calling him as a witness in their trials. But on the eve of his mother's trial, the shooter's new attorneys disclosed that he would be invoking his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Without the shooter on the stand, this hamstrings the defense's ability to challenge the boy's claims that his parents ignored his mental health troubles, laughed at him, and told him to "suck it up." But Lehman is still pushing for ways to challenge the shooter's allegations, even without him on the stand. Specifically, she is urging the judge to let her admit as evidence information that was discovered in December in a box of confidential medical records involving the shooter. According to court documents, Ethan Crumbley allegedly told a psychiatrist that he lied in a text to his friend when he stated that he asked his parents for help and that they ignored him. The jury in Jennifer Crumbleys trial never got to hear that because the judge didn't let it in, concluding it was confidential medical information that belongs only to the shooter, and that the shooter invoked privilege over those protected documents. The Jennifer Crumbley jury also never heard that the shooter told a psychiatrist that when he was texting a friend that he was hallucinating, he was watching horror movies at the time, according to testimony from the shooter's case. The jury also didn't see a journal excerpt in which the shooter wrote he had to find where his dad hid the gun. Storage of the gun is a key issue in this case, as the prosecution has argued the Crumbleys gave their son easy access to a gun that he used to kill people, while the Crumbleys maintain the gun at issue was hidden in an armoire, unloaded, and that the bullets were in a separate drawer hidden under some jeans. They also maintain the gun wasn't really a gift, but that their son was allowed to use it only at shooting ranges with his dad. Defense is trying to change the judge's mind The journal entries have become a sticking point for Lehman, who argues that admitting some portions of the journal but not others violates James Crumbley's rights. "Allowing some but not all relevant statements will mislead the jury," Lehman writes. "As a result, Mr. Crumbley's due process rights will be violated." Lehman also argues that if damning information is put before the jury about her client, then she should have a right to refute it with information she believes can do just that. In this case, she wants the judge to allow her to present additional evidence related to statements the shooter made to psychiatrists, which are part of his protected medical file. Oakland County Circuit Judge Cheryl Matthews has previously ruled that those medical records are off limits, but Lehman is trying to change her mind. Lehman also wants to exclude from trial text messages the shooter sent his mom eight months before the shooting, when he texted her about hallucinating and seeing demons throw bowls around the house. At her trial, Jennifer Crumbley testified that those texts were part of a family joke in which her son and husband pretended there were ghosts in the house, and that she didn't respond right away because he was "messing with us." Jennifer Crumbley stands as the jury is seated in the Oakland County courtroom before guilty verdicts were read on four counts of involuntary manslaughter on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. Lehman argues the texts with the mother have nothing to do with her client, and shouldn't be admitted at trial. "If the court is inclined to allow portions of the journal ... texts between the shooter and his friend, and texts between the shooter and his mother, despite there being no evidence that Mr. Crumbley was aware of any of them, then the court must also allow the defense to cross-examine witnesses with information learned from the protected records received in December 2023," Lehman wrote. Jury selection is scheduled to begin for James Crumbley on March 5. More: James Crumbley may come off as more sympathetic than his wife. But is it enough? The prosecution is seeking to hold him responsible for the deaths of the four students murdered by his son: Tate Myre, 16, Hana St. Juliana, 14, Madisyn Baldwin, 17, and Justin Shilling, 17. Six more students and a teacher also were wounded in the rampage. Prosecutors have long argued that the Crumbleys, more than anyone else, could have prevented the massacre had they disclosed to school officials that their son had access to a gun when they were summoned over a troubling drawing he had made on the morning before the shooting. On his geometry worksheet, the shooter had drawn a picture of a gun, a bleeding human body, and the words, "The thoughts won't stop. Help me." The parents never disclosed to school officials that just days earlier, they had gifted their son a gun. School officials determined the boy was sad, but not a threat to the school, and allowed him to return to class, concluding he would be better off with peers than home alone. His parents returned to their jobs. Two hours later, he fired his first shot. Contact Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: James Crumbley fights to keep son's journal and texts out of trial James Irven Staley III's battle to overturn his murder conviction will go before justices for oral arguments March 12 in Fort Worth as requested by the defense, court records show. While Staley serves life without parole for the murder of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel, his attorney is expected to keep pressing his argument that a search warrant was invalid and key digital evidence Wichita Falls police gathered was inadmissible. Oral arguments will be 1:30 p.m. March 12 before a panel of three justices at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center. Justice Elizabeth Kerr, Justice Dana Womack and Justice Brian Walker are slated to see the defense and prosecution face off in the Second District Appeals Court on the ninth floor. James Irven Staley III leaves an eighth-floor courtroom at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center in Fort Worth on Friday, March 3, 2023, after a day in his murder trial. He is accused of killing 2-year-old Justin Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018, at Staley's Wichita Falls home. Keith S. Hampton is calling for the appeals court to reverse Staley's conviction and grant him a new trial. Hampton contends Staley's constitutional rights protecting him from unreasonable searches and seizures were violated because the affidavit for the search warrant was too general, court records show. Hampton holds that a district judge should never have issued the warrant, and the evidence seized should never have gone before a jury. Among evidence possibly at stake are an infamous "slapping video," more disturbing videos and toxic digital messages presented to Fort Worth jurors who found Staley guilty March 13 of capital murder of a person under 10 after a three-week trial. As for prosecutors seeking to uphold Staley's conviction, they contend Texas law says that in a murder investigation stemming from a domestic relationship between a defendant and the murder victim, facts showing the nature of their relationship and the accused's state of mind toward the victim are useful evidence, and it can be seized through a warrant. At the time of Wilder's death Oct. 11, 2018, in a bedroom of Staley's Country Club area home, his mother, Amber Nichole McDaniel, was in a tumultuous relationship with the once prosperous oilman. Prosecutors say Wilder and Amber were living with Staley when the child was killed. Jason Wilder McDaniel's family members testified about missing the 2-year-old and how much he means to them. His mother, Amber Nichole McDaniel, often wept while testifying before the jury in James Irven Staley's capital murder trial about her child and his murder, her short-lived and volatile relationship with Staley, documented in disturbing electronic messages, and the aftermath of her son's killing. In addition, prosecutors contend Staley has previously forfeited most of the complaints he raised on appeal because he didn't bring them up in the trial court, according to a brief filed by Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie and Assistant DA Bryce Perry. Hampton fired back a brief in reply to the prosecution Feb. 15, saying defense attorneys did their due diligence to preserve Staley's complaints for an appeal. What's more, Hampton contends prosecutors did not provide anything in their brief that shows the appeals court should ignore Staley's allegations the warrant's affidavit did not specify what police expected to find in "never identified" devices, resulting in a too general warrant under the Fourth Amendment. More: Confined to home detention, Montague couple blames social media for Jan. 6 convictions More: Report details allegations against man for crash that killed Windthorst teen Trish Choate, enterprise watchdog reporter for the Times Record News, covers education, courts, breaking news and more. Contact Trish with news tips at tchoate@gannett.com. Read her recent work here. Her X handle is @Trishapedia. This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Battle for James Staley's appeal set for oral arguments Japan is set to introduce a six-month visa for remote workers or digital nomads who earn at least 10 million yen (53k) annually. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) announced the initiative earlier this month which is scheduled to launch by the end of March. Remote workers from 49 countries and territories are eligible under this initiative, The Japan Times reported. Eligible individuals, including the self-employed, can stay in Japan under the specified activities visa category, provided their home countries have tax treaties and visa waiver agreements with Japan, such as the US, Australia, and Singapore. The newly introduced six-month visa for digital nomads in Japan will not allow for immediate extensions after expiration. According to Travel Daily Media, individuals wishing to reapply can do so six months after they depart from Japan. Visa holders are allowed to bring their spouses and children with them to Japan. However, they must have private health insurance. Furthermore, individuals on this visa will not be issued a certificate or residence card in Japan, ISA stated. Japan has become part of an expanding group of countries and territories, including Estonia, Mexico, Portugal, and Taiwan, offering similar programs for digital nomads. The Strait Times reports that this move by Japan is aimed at drawing in more remote workers and stimulating its tourism sector as part of a wider strategy. Japan envisions that digital nomads will contribute to innovation and invigorate the nations ageing workforce. Meanwhile, the announcement of the digital nomad visa by Japan has sparked a lively discussion on Reddit, especially in the r/DigitalNomad subreddit and the r/Japan page, attracting hundreds of comments. However, many prospective digital nomads also noted that this new visa, similar to other digital nomad visas, imposes significant eligibility requirements. The Japan Digital Nomad Association has been advocating for the government to adopt a more proactive stance and formalise practices that have gained popularity since 2020. Ryo Osera, an executive officer of the association expressed support for the newly introduced digital nomad visa, according to ABC News, but is advocating for the reduction of restrictions in light of more lenient policies available in other Asian countries. Its not competitive at this moment but Japan is now a really like popular destination, Mr Osera said. We are still talking to the government. It is a really big step but its not yet enough. According to data from Nomad List, a website catering to remote workers that analysed over 300,000 check-ins in its database, Japan emerged as the top-growing destination for remote work in 2023, as reported by CNBC. They dont have wholesale, open immigration that we are used to or that we would recognise, Shiro Armstrong, director of the Australia-Japan Research Centre at Australian National University told ABC News. But there are about 2 million expats or foreigners living on various visas in Japan and 2 million is not insignificant. Theyve got such huge public debt. Government debt dwarfs anything we have ever seen, he said. They need to raise revenue. So if they bring in foreigners on [a lower tax rate], it would be pretty interesting to see how the population responds. In South Korea, digital nomad visa applicants must have an annual income exceeding 84.96 million won (52k) and be employed by a foreign company, allowing them and their families to stay for up to two years. Malaysia offers a nomad pass for up to two years to individuals earning over $32,500 (25k) annually, provided they work in digital fields such as IT and digital marketing and have health insurance. Taiwans Gold Card is not explicitly a digital nomad visa but grants unlimited entry, work, and residency rights for three years, with applicants evaluated on their professional skills. Thailands Long Term Resident Visa can accommodate digital nomads for up to 10 years. (Bloomberg) -- Japan protested to South Koreas ambassador after Japanese company funds lodged with a Seoul court were paid out as compensation over colonial-era forced labor, a step Tokyo said was a breach of a 1965 treaty. Most Read from Bloomberg Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Masataka Okano summoned Yun Dukmin Wednesday and told him the payment placed Japanese companies at an unfair disadvantage, describing it as extremely regrettable, the ministry said in a statement. The plaintiff, a relative of a deceased former laborer, received 60 million won ($45,000) in funds that Hitachi Zosen Corp. had deposited at the court during the legal battle, after the Supreme Court in December upheld an order for damages, Kyodo News said the previous day. Yonhap News said the payment was the first of its kind. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa expressed her strong regret over the courts move that inflicts unjustifiable damages and costs on the company when she met South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul on the sidelines of a Group of 20 meeting in Brazil, Japans Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Read more: South Korea Seeks Revived China-Japan Summit to Firm Up Ties (1) The dispute risks reigniting ill-feeling between the two US allies, who have recently sought to set aside a long-running disagreement over whether Japan paid sufficient compensation for its 1910-1945 colonization of the Korean Peninsula. US President Joe Biden has encouraged the rapprochement, in a bid to balance growing threats from China and North Korea. Read more: Why South Korea-Japan Ties Are Plagued by History: QuickTake Japan says agreements signed in 1965 and accompanied by $800 million (about $7.5 billion today) in grants and cheap loans settled all South Korean claims over the colonial period completely and finally. South Korean courts have found that individual laborers were not properly compensated for their suffering. The payout comes as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida prepares to travel to Seoul to meet President Yoon Suk Yeol next month, according to the Asahi newspaper and other media, amid improved sentiment between the two countries. About 44% of South Koreans had positive feelings toward Japan, according to a survey commissioned by the Japan Press Research Institute in November, the highest since the annual survey began in 2015. (Updates with statement from Japans Foreign Ministry in paragraph four.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. US authorities claim that Takeshi Ebisawa is a senior figure in a sprawling Japanese organised crime group. US prosecutors have charged an alleged member of the Japanese mafia with conspiring to traffic nuclear materials. Takeshi Ebisawa, 60, tried to sell uranium and plutonium that he believed would be transferred to Iran to build a nuclear bomb, it is alleged. Mr Ebisawa and a Thai co-defendant were previously hit with weapons and drug charges in April 2022. He faces life imprisonment if convicted of the latest charges. US authorities say Mr Ebisawa - who is being held in a Brooklyn jail - is a senior figure in the Japanese organised crime syndicate, known as the Yakuza, with operations in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and the US. The US Department of Justice said Mr Ebisawa and his "confederates showed samples of nuclear materials in Thailand" to an undercover agent from the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). The agent was posing as a drugs and weapons trafficker with links to an Iranian general. The nuclear samples - which came from Myanmar - were seized by Thai authorities and transferred to US investigators. A US laboratory confirmed the material contained uranium and weapons-grade plutonium. Prosecutors also allege that Mr Ebisawa sought to acquire large quantities of military-grade weapons on behalf of an unspecified rebel group in Myanmar. The weapons included surface-to-air missiles, assault and sniper rifles, machine guns, rockets of various calibres and a variety of tactical gear. "It is chilling to imagine the consequences had these efforts succeeded, and the justice department will hold accountable those who traffic in these materials and threaten US national security and international stability," assistant attorney general Matthew G Olden said in a statement on Wednesday. In February 2020, Mr Ebisawa allegedly contacted the DEA agent about selling nuclear materials. According to US prosecutors, he explained via encrypted communications that uranium is "not good for your health". In September that year, Mr Ebisawa allegedly emailed the undercover DEA agent a letter bearing the name of a mining company. He offered to sell 50 tonnes of uranium and thorium for $6.85m (5.4m). Prosecutors also say he sent photographs showing "a dark rocky material" with a Geiger counter, which is used to measure levels of radiation. Mr Ebisawa faces charges including conspiracy to commit international trafficking of nuclear materials, narcotics importation conspiracy, conspiracy to acquire, transfer and possess anti-aircraft missiles and money laundering. His co-conspirator in the case, 61-year-old Thai national Somphop Singhasiri, is facing drugs and weapons charges. The pair will be arraigned in a New York federal courtroom on Thursday. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO) President Tomoaki Kobayakawa, left, holds a meeting with Japan's Industry Minister Ken Saito, right, at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in Tokyo Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024. Japans industry minister summoned the president of the utility that runs the Fukushima nuclear power plant to his office Wednesday and chided him for a radioactive water leak at the plant earlier this month. (Kyodo News via AP) TOKYO (AP) Japans industry minister summoned the president of the utility that runs the Fukushima nuclear power plant to his office Wednesday and chided him for a radioactive water leak at the plant earlier this month. Mishaps related to the massive amount of contaminated water at the tsunami-damaged Fukushima Daiichi plant are especially sensitive while the government tries to get support for discharging treated wastewater into the sea a process that will take decades and has worried people inside and outside Japan. Industry Minister Ken Saito called for heightened safety awareness and preventive measures and urged company President Tomoaki Kobayakawa to take it seriously as a management issue. The move followed a series of mishaps led by human errors at the plant, where three nuclear reactors melted down after the massive 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Most recently, 1.5 metric ton of highly radioactive water escaped in early February during valve checks at a SARRY treatment machine designed to remove cesium and strontium from the contaminated water, according to the plant operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, or TEPCO. The leakage has been downgraded from an initial estimate of 5.5 tons. No one was injured and the spill did not escape the plant compound. Saito called on TEPCO to fully examine the mishaps to find whether they may have common causes, while consider using digital technology as a way of preventing human errors. The mishaps would trigger unease in the local community as well as many others in and outside Japan about the safety of the ongoing decommissioning carried out by TEPCO, the minister said. In the February incident, workers left several air valves open while they flushed the machine with filtered water a process intended to reduce radiation levels before the maintenance work. The valves should have been closed, but workers started the flushing without checking. The leaked water was 10 times more radioactive than the legally releasable limit, according to TEPCO. In another accidental leak in October, four workers were sprayed with radioactive liquid waste while cleaning a treatment facility. Two were briefly hospitalized for skin contamination, though none showed symptoms of poisoning. Kobayakawa apologized to the minister over the mishaps, which he said should not have happened from safety perspectives, and as president I take it very seriously. After the meeting with the minister, Kobayakawa told reporters that he planned to study ways to effectively prevent human errors while seeking advice from outside experts. The filtering machine involved in the mishaps are part of TEPCOs treated controversial wastewater discharges. The project has been strongly opposed by fishing groups and neighboring countries including China, which banned imports of all Japanese seafood. The Japanese government has struggled to ease concerns in and outside the country, while hoping the International Atomic Energy Agencys assistance and reviews affirming the discharges have met international safety standards would help win credibility. Renderings show Bella Vida at La Cantera, a senior housing community that is slated to be built across the highway from The Rim. Courtesy of Three and Forefront Living Renderings show Bella Vida at La Cantera, a senior housing community that is slated to be built across the highway from The Rim. Courtesy of Three and Forefront Living Renderings show Bella Vida at La Cantera, a senior housing community that is slated to be built across the highway from The Rim. Courtesy of Three and Forefront Living Renderings show Bella Vida at La Cantera, a senior housing community that is slated to be built across the highway from The Rim. Courtesy of Three and Forefront Living Renderings show Bella Vida at La Cantera, a senior housing community that is slated to be built across the highway from The Rim. Courtesy of Three and Forefront Living A faith-based nonprofit has unveiled new renderings of a senior housing complex it wants to build across the highway from The Rim shopping center between San Antonio and Boerne. On 26.5 acres near the Eilan development along Interstate 10, Forefront Living of Dallas plans to build 164 apartments and 40 villas for people 62 and older who live independently. Units will range from 820 to 2,550 square feet. The community, named Bella Vida at La Cantera, will also have 16 assisted living units with memory support care and amenities such as a salon and spa, fitness center, pickleball court, indoor pool, restaurant-style dining and wellness programming. Forefront Living declined to disclose the range of costs for various unit sizes and services. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is very much a lifestyle choice. This is really designed for seniors who want access to health care, but want an active, independent lifestyle, CEO Tim Mallad said. Forefront Living was founded in 1962 as Grace Presbyterian Ministries. It operates the Presbyterian Village North retirement community, Faith Presbyterian Hospice and T. Boone Pickens Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Dallas, and it is opening the Outlook at Windhaven senior housing community in Plano this summer. Its leader has long eyed San Antonio. It is an under-served area, and it has been decades since a nonprofit built a senior living community here, Mallad said. The location off I-10 is attractive to Forefront Living because its a short drive from shops and restaurants, as well as being atop a hill in a natural setting with trees and greenery. Bella Vida is designed by Three, a Dallas-based firm that designed Hotel Emma at Pearl. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The response from people interested in learning more about living at Bella Vida has surpassed expectations, Mallad said. More than 450 people signed up for a priority club program to receive initial information about the community, and Forefront Living opened a waiting list. The organization plans to begin construction in 2025 and open Bella Vida in late 2026. A scrutiny panel says it is "concerned" over out of date details surrounding student finance A scrutiny panel has expressed concerns over alleged student finance errors on the Government of Jersey's website. The Children, Education and Home Affairs Panel told minister Richard Vibert it was "concerned" over incorrect financial details. Panel chair Catherine Curtis said incorrect details "could impact the decision making process for young people". Ms Curtis asked for a response by 22 February. Impacts on applications In a letter to Minister for Children and Education Constable Vibert, Ms Curtis said some "out of date" information had been published on the student finance and higher education section of the website. She said out of date details concerning maintenance grants had been provided. Ms Curtis said: "Incorrect or outdated information could impact the decision-making process for young people who are calculating their finances ahead of any potential application." The panel has asked for progress on government plans to amend the Education (Grants and Allowances) (Jersey) Order 2018 (the Order). Ms Curtis has asked for updates to the order that are under consideration and urged the minister to advise how information on the government website and forms for student finance was reviewed. The panel has requested it receives a response by Thursday. Minister Vibert has been approached for a comment. Follow BBC Jersey on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. The American Jewish Committee released its report for the Annual State of Antisemitism in the United States. The results are staggering. Over a 30% increase just in two years of American Jews who say they feel less secure and the number one reason given this year was the Hamas and Israel War, Holly Huffnagle, the AJC Director For Combating Antisemitism, said. A war that is thousands of miles away has impacted Jewish people living here in Central Florida. Just last week, Rabbi Yosef Konikov with the Chabad of South Orlando said one of the members of his community told the rabbi they were attacked while walking home when someone pulled up next to the man and started yelling and throwing things at him. Read: Person discovered with gunshot wound near busy Orlando intersection He was very disturbed about that; he didnt understand what he did to them, Rabbi Konikov said. They were cursing him out and using foul language and talking about Jewish people. The AJC reports more than 9 in 10 American Jews and three-quarters of the general public believe antisemitism is a problem in the U.S. Rabbi Konikov said for the most part Central Florida is a loving and accepting community, but it isnt immune to hate. Read: FDLE investigating after woman dies while being detained by Orange County deputies There are cases of antisemitism here in Orlando, Rabbi Konikov said. He said when people experience this hate or see it first-hand, they need to speak up. There are too many good people in the world who are not speaking up, Rabbi Konikov said. They need to speak up. Let people know, your children know, let your friends know this is absolutely unacceptable and this is wrong. Read: 2 men charged in shooting at Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade The Chabad of South Orlando will be hosting a lecture by an Israeli war survivor on March 6th. Details and a link to register can be found here. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. The 2024 White House Christmas Ornament featuring former President Jimmy Carter, is seen at the White House Historical Association Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Washington. Carter is the first of the U.S. presidents to be honored with an official White House Christmas ornament while still living. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) WASHINGTON (AP) Former President Jimmy Carter has another distinction to his name. The 99-year-old is the first of the U.S. presidents to be honored with an official White House Christmas ornament while still living. The ornament was unveiled Wednesday and is the latest in an annual series that the nonprofit White House Historical Association began issuing in 1981, the year Carter left office. Carter's ornament is shaped like an anchor in a nod to his Navy service. Other aspects of the former Georgia peanut farmer's four-year term are represented by doves, a globe, a submarine and peanuts. The Democrat was elected in 1976 and denied a second term in 1980. Stewart McLaurin, president of the historical association, said the honor marks the first time in the history of our ornament program that weve been able to feature a living president. The ornament series features a different president every year in their order of service. Carter, who is 39th on the list, is the only president to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, McLaurin said. Carter married his wife, Rosalynn, after graduating in 1946, and went on to serve in the Navy for seven years before he returned to his hometown of Plains, Georgia. The rear of the ornament features an image of the USS Jimmy Carter, the last of the Seawolf class of nuclear submarines that were built for the Navy. Carter is the only president to have a nuclear submarine named for him, McLaurin said. A view of the north side of the White House on the front of the ornament features doves, symbolizing Carter's presidential peacemaking efforts. Carter helped broker the Camp David Peace Accords between Egypt and Israel in 1978. A globe on the back of the ornament speaks to Carter's commitment to the environment and his efforts as president and as a private citizen to secure peace around the world. He was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Peanuts and their blossoms adorn the bottom of the ornament, serving as a reminder of his years as a peanut farmer and businessman in Plains. Carter is in hospice care at his home. After a series of short hospital stays, Carter announced early in 2023 that he had decided to give up medical intervention and spend the rest of his time at home with his family while receiving end-of-life care. Rosalynn Carter died in November, about six months after the family disclosed that she had been diagnosed with dementia. Carter is the oldest living former president. He and his wife were married for more than 77 years, the longest marriage in U.S. presidential history. The White House Historical Association was created in 1961 by first lady Jacqueline Kennedy to help preserve the interior of the White House and educate the public. It is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that receives no government funding. It raises money mostly through private donations and sales of retail merchandise, including the annual Christmas ornament. KC India Mart is building a new, bigger space less than 2 miles from its current spot. The grocery store will move from 8542 W. 133rd St. to 8201 W. 135th St., off Hemlock Street. It will bring along the adjacent Desi Bites Indian cafe for the 13,000-plus-square-foot building, according to development plans recently approved by the city. KC India Mart will take up most of the stone, flat roof building, plans indicate. KC India Mart sells Indian food products and other goods. The store sells Indian products, produce and household goods. It will become the only Indian grocer with its own building in Johnson County. (The free-standing Pan-Asia Market sells products from India, Cambodia, China and more.) Other Indian grocers in Overland Park include Royal Spices at 8380 W. 151st St. and Ambica Foods at 9054 Metcalf Ave. KC India Marts owner could not be reached to comment on the timeline of the project. This embedded content is not available in your region. Former PM Boris Johnson claims he was going to donate any fee from Carlson to Ukrainian veterans' charities - Stanislav Ivanov/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images Boris Johnson has denied demanding a million-dollar fee for an interview with ex-Fox News host Tucker Carlson. The US presenter accused the former prime minister of requesting the payment, equivalent to around 800,000, for the booking. But Mr Johnsons team dismissed that as untrue and claimed Mr Carlson had been the one to make the offer. They said Mr Johnson initially accepted, provided the money went solely to Ukrainian veterans charities, but decided not to go ahead after the death of Alexei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, which has been widely blamed on the Kremlin. Mr Carlson, an influential voice in Right-wing US media known for his attacks on Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said he had been annoyed after Mr Johnson denounced him as a Kremlin stooge following his interview with Vladimir Putin. He claimed he put in a request for an interview with the ex-prime minister, which was initially declined. Speaking to Blaze TV, a Right-wing news channel, he said: Finally one of his advisers gets back to me and says, He will talk to you, but its going to cost you a million dollars. He wants a million dollars, in US dollars, gold or bitcoin this just happened yesterday, or two days ago. Then he will talk to you about Ukraine he will explain his position on Ukraine. It is the latest flare-up in a row between the pair after Mr Johnson used his Daily Mail column to call Mr Carlson a traitor to journalism for his interview with Putin. Mr Carlson denied supporting the Russian regime, but added: Putin didnt ask for one million dollars This whole thing is a freaking shakedown. If youre making money off a war, you know, you can deal with God on that, because thats really immoral. Mr Johnson said the presenter had betrayed viewers and listeners around the world for not taking Putin to task for the torture, the rapes, the blowing up of kindergartens in Ukraine. In the interview, the Russian leader insisted that Mr Johnson helped scupper a deal aimed at ending the war a claim that has been denied by the former premier and rubbished by senior Ukrainian figures. 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. JOLIET, Ill. - A class-action lawsuit filed Tuesday in Will County claims over 90 nurses at Ascension Saint Joseph in Joliet weren't paid wages they had been promised leading up to a lockout late last year. The suit, filed in Will County circuit court, accuses healthcare giant Ascension Health of wage theft for allegedly failing to pay nurses Kaitlynd French, Beth Corsetti and over 90 others prior to the November lockout, according to a statement from the Illinois Nurses Association (INA). The complaint claims Ascension Health agreed to pay the nurses extra to work shifts beyond their normal schedules, then refused to pay them after the shifts had been worked. The nurses union said Ascension Saint Joseph has faced staffing challenges for years and has relied on its existing nurses to pick up extra shifts beyond their normal schedule to keep the hospital running. "The silver lining of Joes being understaffed is that you can always make some extra money picking up incentive shifts," French said in a statement. Nurses at Ascension Saint Joseph - Joliet hospital will be going on strike for two days next week. (FOX 32 News) Nurses were locked out of the hospital for four days around Thanksgiving in what the union claimed was retaliation for calling a two-day strike. During the same pay period, the union said nurses were asked to pick up extra shifts for incentive pay, but were allegedly told after returning to work the following week that they wouldn't be paid at the rate Ascension had promised. "The employer agreed, both as a matter of standing policy and individually with each nurse for each shift, to pay incentive pay for shifts that nurses worked above and beyond their normal schedule," attorney Will Bloom said in a statement. "Only after the nurses had worked the agreed shifts did the employer announce that they would not pay them as agreed. Thats textbook wage theft," he added. Ascension and the nurses have been in contract negotiations since May 2023. The healthcare workers went on strike twice last year, and once again this month demanding better pay and staffing. The nurses' union said they went on two Unfair Labor Practice strikes because the company wasn't bargaining in good faith. FOX Chicago has reached out to Ascension Health for a statement, but has not yet heard back. The nurses are being represented by Despres, Schwartz and Geoghegan Ltd. The state's death penalty case against the El Paso Walmart mass shooter remains in limbo as a district court judge, for the third time, will hear if prosecutors and defense attorneys are finally ready to move forward toward a trial date. El Paso District Attorney Bill Hicks, his team of prosecutors and the gunman's attorneys will appear at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22, before Judge Sam Medrano of the 409th District Court to discuss when both sides believe they can begin handling pretrial motions and possibly be ready for trial. Accused El Paso Walmart mass shooter Patrick Crusius is arraigned Thursday, October, 10, 2019 in the 409th state District Court with Judge Sam Medrano presiding. Crusius, a 21-year-old male from Allen, Texas, stands accused of killing 22 and injuring 25 in the Aug. 3 mass shooting at an East El Paso Walmart in the seventh deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history and third deadliest in Texas. Crusius entered a not guilty plea along side his attorneys Mark Stevens and Joe Spencer. Thursday's hearing comes four years, six months and 19 days since Patrick Crusius came to El Paso and gunned down shoppers at an El Paso Walmart in a racially-motived mass shooting targeting Hispanics. The Aug. 3, 2019, mass shooting left 23 people dead and dozens more injured. The hearing will be the third in the past six months where Medrano asked state prosecutors and defense attorneys to give him an update on their progress on the case and when he could possibly schedule a trial date. Hearings in September and January both resulted in no trial date being set as both sides continue blaming the other for the delays. More: Scheduling conference reveals ongoing evidence delays in Walmart mass shooting case A frustrated Medrano ended January's hearing stating he was "no closer to scheduling or establishing a schedule." Medrano has declined to comment as the case remains pending. Medrano ordered both sides to come to court Thursday with timelines on when they believe they will be finished reviewing all evidence and a list of pretrial motions. The state prosecutors trying the case include Hicks, Rebecca Tarango, Michael Williams and John Davis. The gunman's defense attorneys are Joe Spencer, Mark Stevens and Felix Valenzuela. Hicks: 'We are ready for trial' Prosecutors plan to ask Medrano for a deadline for all pretrial motions to be filed by April 1 and hearings on the motions to be held by June 1st with a jury questionnaire ready shortly thereafter, Hicks said. "We're going to once again announce that we are ready for trial," Hicks said. "We have not filed anything new. Everything is ready to go. I anticipate that the defense is going to continue to try to delay matters. They do not want justice for the victims. They want to delay matters. So we'll sit back and wait and see what their excuses are for why they cannot go to trial. El Paso District Attorney Bill Hicks talks to the media after a court hearing regarding the Walmart shooter trial in state court on Jan. 18, 2028 at the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in El Paso, Texas. "We're fighting to get this case to trial so that hopefully an El Paso jury can make the determination of what is justice on this case. That is all." Joe Spencer, lead attorney for the gunman, said he is seeking justice as well for the El Paso community. Still, he said, a trial date this year is unlikely. "On Thursday, we can give the court enough information so that the court will know when is a feasible time to start a scheduling order and actual trial on this case and not give a false trial date that's going to get moved for many different reasons," Spencer said. "I feel for the victims and the community who (have) had to go through so much political decision-making on a case of such great importance to El Paso, that I would hope that we in El Paso are above politics and are more interested in justice and not about seeking reelection." Spencer: 'Review this case absent of politics' The guilt of the gunman has not been in question. The main argument in state court is whether the death penalty should be sought against the gunman. While the state's case has languished, the federal case against the gunman has come and gone with the U.S. Attorney's Office successfully reaching a plea agreement with the gunman and getting him sentenced to 90 consecutive life sentences in a super max federal prison. More: El Paso Walmart mass shooter ordered to pay $5 million in restitution to massacre victims Unlike the El Paso District Attorney's Office, the U.S. Attorney's Office did not seek the death penalty against the gunman. "I want a DA to handle this case in such a way that the federal government did absent of politics and based on the merits of the case," Spencer said. Federal prosecutors, who later sought the death penalty in the "Bowers case (2018 Pittsburgh synagogue shooting), as well as the New York case (Buffalo supermarket shooting)," rejected seeking the death penalty in the Walmart case, he said. "They took the politics out of the decision-making," Spencer said. "So I want a DA that's willing to have the fortitude to review this case absent of politics." Hicks has repeatedly denied the 2024 general election, during which he will seek to keep his seat as district attorney, has played any role in his handling of the case. The two district attorneys who handled the case before Hicks planned to seek the death penalty. Many family members of those killed in the horrific attack and some community leaders have called for prosecutors to seek the death penalty against the white supremacist being held in the county jail. Hicks said it is defense attorneys who are playing politics by hoping a new district attorney will be elected in November who will decide against seeking the death penalty. "How is it political for me to want to seek justice for the people of El Paso," Hicks asked. "I don't understand how they're saying it's political when all I want to do is get this case to trial. How is that political? It's not political and it's been that way from the very beginning. "The only thing I've ever said is that I want to get this case on track and to trial. How is it political for me to say that I want to take this case to trial and have a jury decide what the appropriate punishment is in the biggest case in El Paso's history?" Delays caused by massive amounts of evidence A major delay has been the large amount of evidence, known as discovery in court proceedings, in the case. Hicks said the gunman's attorneys have received all major evidence in the case. However, defense attorneys were still receiving evidence as late as January. "We haven't received any mass discovery of late and I think after the last, we're not going to," Spencer said. "I just could not understand why we kept getting stuff over and over. We haven't gotten anything else. We will probably be getting supplements that are going to be minuscule and that's not going to be any issues. We just have an enormous mess." "I was hopeful that today we could be closer to have this case resolved," 409th District Court Judge Sam Medrano said, pictured here during a hearing for the Walmart shooter at the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse in El Paso, Texas on Jan. 18, 2024. Spencer and his team are now going through thousands of pieces of evidence to prepare their case. He added the evidence turned over included a mass amount of duplication, which has slowed his team's progress. "If they're duplicates, why are we getting them? We have an obligation to look at it," Spencer said. "And I have not yet found an answer as to why he says that they had turned over duplicates. One of the things he seems to say is that, when he gets information from the agency, he just turns it over to us. So that tells me he doesn't look at it. He doesn't vet it. He doesn't see if if there's anything that's corrupted or it's got virus. He just turns it over to us. That makes no sense." Hicks countered duplicates should not be hindering the defense's preparation for trial. "They're excuses," Hicks said. "We've completed the state's discovery, one of those copies being turned over in October, one in December, and then the final one, which was the courtesy copy, in January. It took two of our attorneys one month to go through the entire federal discovery. They have 16 people plus a discovery expert. I don't understand why it's taken them so long to go through the discovery. They should be able to go to trial on this case." Aaron Martinez may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on Twitter @AMartinezEPT. This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Hearing set in death penalty case stemming from El Paso Walmart shooting The Department of Justice (DOJ) is asking a federal judge to reverse an order that released the former FBI informant who was charged last week with making false statements about President Biden and his son, Hunter Biden. In court documents filed Wednesday in the Central District of California, federal prosecutors asked District Judge Otis D. Wright to reverse a Tuesday order from Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts in the District of Nevada that released Alexander Smirnov from custody. As discussed in more detail below, the nature and circumstances of the offense, weight of the evidence, and the fact that Smirnovs ties to the community are weak establish that Smirnov should be detained, prosecutors said. Smirnov was charged last week with making false statements to the FBI in relation to his testimony about Hunter Biden. He had previously told the law enforcement agency that both the president and Hunter Biden received $5 million bribes from the head of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma a claim at the center of the ongoing House GOP probe into the Biden family. The DOJ previously argued against the release Tuesday, saying Smirnov should be detained because he previously made plans to travel outside the U.S. to meet with multiple foreign intelligence agencies who were capable of relocating him. The DOJs Tuesday filing also said Smirnov received information from Russian intelligence. The department made similar arguments in its Wednesday filing, requesting the judge reverse the order and claiming Smirnov also has access to more than $6 million in liquid funds that would allow him to live comfortably overseas for the remainder of his life. The prosecutors said Smirnov did not disclose to Pretrial Services that he had access to those funds, saying he claimed he only had $1,500 cash on hand and $5,000 in a personal checking account. The fact that Smirnov misrepresented his assets alone should cause Smirnov to be detained because it shows that, at the first opportunity, he did not provide true and complete information to Pretrial Services, prosecutors wrote. The DOJ also pointed out that as an Israeli citizen, Smirnov could obtain a new passport at the Israeli consulate in Los Angeles, which could allow him to use leave the U.S. at any time. Based on the above, this Court should conclude that no condition or combination of conditions will reasonably assure the appearance of the Smirnov as required and order him detained pending trial, the prosecutors concluded. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. San Antonio may run on breakfast tacos, but it relaxes on margaritas. In this city, you're never more than a couple minutes away from an excellent version of that classic drink made with tequila, triple sec and lime juice. The city's favorite cocktail basks in a countrywide spotlight every Feb. 22 for National Margarita Day, but here in San Antonio we don't need a holiday to celebrate. Here are 12 San Antonio bars and restaurants where you can find a great margarita regardless of the day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Coconut Margarita at Acenar on the River Walk in San Antonio combines gold tequila, orange liqueur, coconut milk and pineapple juice. Mike Sutter/Staff Acenar This downtown restaurant serves frozen and on-the-rocks margaritas that can be augmented with several flavors. Enjoy your drink with a menu of modern Mexican-inspired plates and a view of the River Walk. 146 E. Houston St., 210-222-2362, acenar.com LIKE IT HOT? Here are the Top 10 jars of salsa in San Antonio-area grocery stores Advertisement Article continues below this ad Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine on Stone Oak Parkway is known for its margaritas. Mike Sutter/Staff file photo Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine This North Side staple serves at least a dozen margarita variations ranging from a classic on-the-rocks version to drinks flavored with prickly pear, watermelon, hibiscus, jalapeno and more. This restaurant has been doing margaritas right for more than 30 years, and that experience shows in each sip. 20079 Stone Oak Parkway, 210-494-0561, aldacosrestaurants.com The prickly pear margarita at Boudro's Texas Bistro Staff file photo Boudro's Texas Bistro The frozen prickly pear margarita here is famous for a reason: it pairs perfectly with Boudro's Texas-inspired menu and front-row River Walk views. No Instagram account documenting River Walk life is complete without an image of this drink. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 421 E. Commerce St. on the River Walk level, 210-224-8484, boudros.com The Carriqui Margarita (left) and Curandero cocktails from Carriqui Paul Stephen/Staff Carriqui Nostalgia lovers will immediately fall for Carriqui, which is housed in the legendary building that once played home to Liberty Bar. And that bar's signature margarita is one of the best in the Pearl area. 239 E. Grayson St., 210-910-5547, carriquitx.com Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nuestra Margarita with blanco tequila, reposada tequila, key lime, triple sec and kosher salt from The Esquire Tavern Mike Sutter/Staff The Esquire Tavern Belly up to to what's reputedly the longest bar in Texas in this venerable downtown institution. It only offers two types of margs frozen or on the rocks and they're both textbook examples of how to do it right. 155 E. Commerce St., 210-222-2521, esquiretavern-sa.com A frozen "Award Winning Margarita" from La Fogata on Vance Jackson Road Mike Sutter/Staff file photo La Fogata It's a San Antonio right of passage to sit under the sprawling canopy of La Fogata's original Vance Jackson Road enjoying one of their "Award Winning" margaritas and a sizzling plate of queso fundido. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 2427 Vance Jackson Road, 210-340-1337, lafogata.com The Margarita de la Casa made with strawberry puree and blue curacao at La Gloria Paul Stephen/Staff La Gloria You'd have a hard time finding a bad margarita at any of noted chef Johnny Hernandez's restaurants. The original La Gloria location at the Pearl is the best place to start with a relaxed patio space and access to the Museum Reach of the River Walk. 100 E. Grayson St., 210-267-9040, lagloria.com Lisa's Mexican Restaurant offers a wide range of margaritas and happy hour specials. Paul Stephen/Staff Lisa's Mexican Restaurant Situated in a shopping center along a busy stretch of Bandera Road on the near West Side, Lisa's offers a wide range of margaritas and a bustling bar where patrons regularly gather for generous happy hour deals. 815 Bandera Road, 210-433-2531, lisasmexican.com The cocktail menu at Mixtli includes the Mixtli Margarita with prickly pear sherbet, foreground, and a Oaxacan Old Fashioned with mezcal. Mike Sutter/Staff Mixtli In its new Southtown location, this celebrated contemporary Mexican restaurant now offers a full bar a significant upgrade from its liquorless days in a converted boxcar in Olmos Park. The four margaritas on the bar's menu range from classic concoctions to modern interpretations showcasing the restaurant's high-flying culinary skills. 812 S. Alamo St., Suite 103, 210-338-0746, restaurantmixtli.com JAMES BEARD AWARDS: These San Antonio and area restaurants are among the 2024 semifinalists The Havana Margarita at Ocho is made with blanco tequila, Paula's Texas Orange Liqueur, lime and agave. Chuck Blount/Staff Ocho Like a human-sized terrarium, Ocho's glass-lined walls and ceiling bring in oodles of light to show off its polished interior accented with turquoise-painted trim and furniture. You'll look just as good as the space while sipping Ocho's take on a classic margarita. 1015 Navarro St. in Hotel Havana, 210-222-2008, havanasanantonio.com Paloma Blanca's '09 margarita is one of the best margaritas in San Antonio. William Luther/Staff photographer file photo Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine When people get into squabbles about who has the best margarita in San Antonio, Paloma Blanca's name almost always gets mentioned. With a huge selection of fine tequilas to work with, the bar serves up a whole menu dedicated to margaritas including the wildly popular '09 marg made with Patron Reposado, Cointreau, Grand Marnier and lime juice 5800 Broadway, Suite 300, 210-822-6151, palomablanca.net The Paleta Rita at Tito's Mexican Restaurant is a perfect way to cool off in Southtown. Paul Stephen/Staff Tito's Mexican Restaurant This Southtown favorite offers more than 15 types of margarita including its popular 16-ounce Double Barrel Margarita. If you're feeling whimsical, try the Paleta Rita, a frozen margarita served in a chili-rimmed goblet equipped with a pair of baby paletas dunked into the drink. OVERLAND PARK, Kan. A Kansas City, Missouri, man has pleaded guilty in a deadly Overland Park, Kansas, crash that left one woman dead. Alexander Kohrs was charged last year in the crash, and on Friday, he pled guilty to reckless second-degree murder in the death of 62-year-old Karla OMalley. Two more suspects charged in Chiefs parade shooting The deadly crash happened Oct. 30, 2022, near 95th Street and Moody Park Circle in Overland Park. OMalley was on her way home after visiting family when she was hit from behind. Police said Kohrs was going more than double the speed limit 73 mph in a 35 mph zone when he hit the back of OMalleys vehicle. A crash report said OMalleys vehicle was hit so hard the engine was on the sidewalk. OMalley was taken to the hospital where she died about 40 days later. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android The police report said the 23-year-olds blood alcohol level was .27, which is more than three times the legal limit. Kohrs is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. San Marcos City Council voted unanimously to approve a 50% sales tax rebate for a new Buc-ee's location on Interstate 35, just south of Yarrington Road. Rene Guzman / Staff The San Marcos City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved an estimated $3 million sales tax break aimed a landing a new Buc-ees store on Interstate 35. The company which has created a cult following with its giant stores and beaver mascot is proposing to build a $50 million, 74,000-square-foot gas station and store on the southbound I-35 frontage road, just south of where the interstate meets Yarrington Road in north San Marcos. Buc-ees plans to have 120 fueling stations and capacity for electric vehicle charging on the 22-acre site. The council members gave the initial OK for a 50% tax rebate over 15 years. San Marcos projects it would collect $3.2 million in sales tax over the course of the agreement, while giving back the same to the company, according to the citys estimates. The agreement requires a second, final approval for the council. That vote is scheduled for March 5. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The agreement does not include any rebates for property taxes. The city expects to collect $5.9 million in property taxes over the 15 years, and projects the county will receive $2.8 million, while Hays Consolidated Independent School District would receive $11.4 million. The agreement comes with the stipulation that if the Hays County Commissioners Court doesnt approve a similar tax break, Buc-ees can terminate the contract with the city. Hays County declined to comment on any potential agreement. The agreement with the city requires Buc-ees to fill a minimum of 175 full-time jobs with benefits, and to make an effort to hire local employees, contractors and suppliers. The company must also make a $100,000 donation to the City of San Marcos Community Fund within 100 days of opening. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Under the agreement, the company must install a rainwater reclamation system, and it will use an oil/water separator to handle runoff. The councils unanimous decision came after some residents spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting and asked the council to reconsider the agreement. Three residents questioned the citys decision to offer tax breaks to the large corporation, instead of supporting local businesses in the same way. They also raised concerns about traffic. In response, Mayor Jane Hughson asked city staff to list existing small business programs the city offers. Stan Beard, director of real estate for the company, told the council that 80% of Buc-ees customers will come from outside of San Marcos and Hays County. In response to a question about affecting local businesses, he said the companys focus is on road trip stops, not pulling local shoppers away from smaller convenience stores. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Council members and city staff praised the choice of location for the proposed store, noting that its not in an environmentally sensitive area and can be easily accessed from I-35 and the frontage road without going through intersections or stoplights. Council Member Saul Gonzales asked Beard whether the company would still consider San Marcos without the tax rebate. Whenever we approach a community, the understanding is that we believe we bring a valuable asset to a community, Beard said. Tax breaks play a huge part in the companys decisions, he said. So the short answer is we would not be having this conversation. The nearest Buc-ees to the proposed site is 20 miles south in New Braunfels. The company also has stores in Bastop, about 40 miles away, and in Ottine, near Luling, about 30 miles away. The company also is planning a $38 million store in Boerne, a plan that has been in the works since 2016. A company official told the Express-News last week that construction there could start this summer. Advertisement Article continues below this ad FILE - An orca swims past a recreational boat sailing just offshore in the Salish Sea in the San Juan Islands, Wash., July 31, 2015. The U.S. Coast Guard is embarking on one of its most unique missions yet in the Puget Sound: a pilot program to alert vessels of whale sightings. The program is an effort to keep the giant marine mammals safe from boat strikes and noise in the highly used inland waters of Washington state. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File) SEATTLE (AP) Photographer Matt McDonald had lived on Puget Sound for years, but had never seen a whale, so he was elated when he spotted a giant marine mammal just off Seattle's waterfront one evening. The excitement was short-lived. As McDonald tracked the whale in his camera's viewfinder, a state ferry that dwarfed the animal came into the frame. The next morning he saw on the news that the humpback whale had died in the collision he witnessed. I still remember the moment of when they crossed paths and my heart just sinking like, Oh my God, the ferry just ran over the whale,' he recalled of the 2019 encounter. I wish there was something I could have done. Now, five years later, there is. The U.S. Coast Guard has launched a pilot program to alert ships to whale sightings in Washington state's Salish Sea. The goal of the agency's cetacean desk is to keep the marine mammals safe from boat strikes and reduce noise in the highly transited inland seawaters by collecting sightings from civilians and mariners. The program, which began official operations in December, comes at a time when visits by humpback whales and sea mammal-hunting orcas increase as their populations rebound. Fed by the Pacific Ocean, the Salish Sea is a maze of islands and canals that make up the inland waters between Washington state and British Columbia, including Puget Sound. Two groups of orcas one that preys on salmon and the other on sea mammals as well as baleen whales have cruised these waters since time immemorial and are now often visible from Seattle's shoreline. But these waters are now also home to major American and Canadian ports, and nearly 300,000 vessels crisscrossed the area in 2023, from commercial container ships to cruise ships to ferries, according to the Coast Guard. That number doesn't include private boats. The new whale desk reduces the risk of collisions by combining sightings by mariners and civilians on whale-watching apps and data from underwater listening devices into an integrated system that will send out alerts to commercial vessels and regional ferries through a mobile app. The alerts will not go out to private or recreational boats. We're focusing on empowering the ship operators with the situational awareness ... so theyre able to slow down preemptively, perhaps give a little bit of a wider berth to an area with a recently reported whale, said Lt. Commander Margaret Woodbridge, who is managing the whale desk. The Salish Sea is an "incredible area that has a lot of a rich diversity of whale species here," Woodbridge added. And also a lot of economic activity on the waterways. And so were really trying to help both thrive. People who spot whales can download one of two apps that will feed into the Coast Guards Puget Sound Vessel Traffic Service. Mariners can use radio frequencies and a phone tip line when they spot whales. Participation in the program is voluntary for ships. The whale desk is modeled to match the Canadian Coast Guard's Marine Mammal Desk. Both American and Canadian desks are built on the backbone of the Whale Report Alert System (WRAS), a program developed by Canada-based Ocean Wise that incorporates sightings from publicly available apps and other sources, such as tracking information used by whale watching boats. Work on the four-year pilot program began years ago as state and federal agencies including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grappled with how to help the endangered population of southern resident killer whales, U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell said Wednesday. The southern residents, which number just 75, use echolocation to hunt salmon. But ship noise disrupts that. By slowing down, vessels reduce the noise they make. We kept pushing NOAA. What else can we do? What else can we do? said Cantwell, a Washington state Democrat who shepherded the legislation that created the whale desk. When we realized that vessel noise might be part of the situation, people start talking. ... The Coast Guard is already like, we know where everybody is, and were just asking them now to take on a different responsibility: where everybody, including orcas, are. Its really a bit of a watershed moment, Kevin Bartoy, who has been chief sustainability officer for Washington state ferries for about a decade, said of the alert system. The collision between the humpback whale and the ferry was shocking for Bartoy, but it underlined the need for a widely used and available alert system. He said the ferry system had already joined WRAS but it wasn't widely used in Washington then. The day of the 2019 collision there had been only one alert of a whale in the area, he said. Now the more integrated network has resulted in an exponential increase of sightings. Woodbridge, of the Coast Guard, said reports spiked by 585% when comparing December 2022 and December 2023 when the desk launched and now that WRAS has sightings from the apps. The amount of sightings now that we get on any given day is incredible, Bartoy added. We can know essentially where a whale is at any time. But work is not done. The whale desk is currently mostly based on what people can see, leaving spotting the animals at night and in inclement weather much harder. Bartoy said studies are underway in Canada and Washington to start testing land-basedthermal cameras that could potentially spot whales at night by seeking their warmth in the waters as well as a more robust underwater listening or hydrophone system to pick up whale songs. John Calambokidis, senior biologist at the Cascadia Research Collective, said baleen whales, like humpbacks, are especially susceptible to ship collisions at night because they spend twice as much time near the surface then. Another way to keep whales safe is to adjust shipping lanes where possible, said Calambokidis. Through tagging, biologists know where humpback whale routinely congregate, but shifting shipping lanes is not currently being widely discussed, he said. Late last year, a young humpback whale visited the waters off Seattle for several days and its visit provided an excellent example of what can happen when ship operators work together, said Jeff Hogan, formerly of the Soundwatch Boater Education Program. Hogan shadowed the humpback as it breached, and ferries and other boaters adjusted their routes in real time to steer clear of the young whale, he said. The fact that the Coast Guard is watching elevates everyone's behavior. It sets a standard of responsibility," Hogan said. We want these animals to be here. We have to make the space for them to go about their lives. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) predicted Tuesday that former President Trumps numerous legal challenges could be decided before Novembers election. Kemp was asked on CNNs The Source with Kaitlan Collins if he believed Trumps cases should go to trial before the elections so voters can make a decision on the outcomes of his cases. Well, listen, I think most voters probably feel the same way I do, he told Collins. I mean, were a country that was built on laws and the Constitution. And it is up to us, really as elected leaders, to be the ones that exemplify that in a lot of ways. So well see where the process plays out. I think probably they will be ruled on before the election. Trump is facing four separate criminal cases as he campaigns on his third bid for the White House. He has claimed he should have presidential immunity in the federal 2020 election interference case, but the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Trumps claim earlier this month. The three-judge panel ruled the former president is not immune from criminal prosecution as a former executive. He has since urged the Supreme Court to delay the case where he faces charges on four counts stemming from alleged efforts to overturn the election as he appeals the panels ruling. Well, listen, I dont think anybodys above the law, you know, Democrat, Republican, independent, myself or anybody else. So thats my personal opinion, Kemp told Collins when asked what he thought about Trumps immunity claims. Trump is also facing 13 charges, including making false statements; impersonating a public officer; and conspiracy and racketeering, in a separate 2020 election interference case in Georgias Fulton County. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) revealed Tuesday on CNN that he was interviewed by special counsel Jack Smiths office as part of the federal investigation into former President Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 election. CNN host Kaitlan Collins pressed Kemp on previous reports that his office was contacted by Smiths team looking into Trumps efforts to overturn the election and his actions related to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. Kemp confirmed he sat down with Smiths office but did not say exactly when the interview took place. I dont know exactly when that was. I mean, its been months ago, but really didnt last that long. And I basically told them the same thing I told the special grand juries that I followed the law and the Constitution, and answered all their questions truthfully, he said on CNNs The Source. Kemps office confirmed last July that it had been contacted by the federal special counsel but it was not previously known he participated in an interview. The former president was indicted in August related to his alleged efforts to remain in power following the 2020 election, despite President Biden winning. Trump has claimed he should have presidential immunity in the federal election interference case. The District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Trumps claim earlier this month, with the three-judge panel ruling the former president is not immune from criminal prosecution as a former executive. Trump has since urged the Supreme Court to delay the case as he appeals the panels ruling. Well, listen, I dont think anybodys above the law, you know, Democrat, Republican, independent, myself or anybody else. So thats my personal opinion, Kemp told Collins when asked what he thought about Trumps immunity claims. The federal case is separate from the Fulton County election interference case in Kemps home state, where Trump faces 13 charges including making false statements; impersonating a public officer; and conspiracy and racketeering. Smiths office declined to comment on Kemps remarks. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Migrants arrive at Annunciation House in El Paso after being released from U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody, on June 24, 2018. Credit: Ivan Pierre Aguirre for The Texas Tribune A Catholic nonprofit that operates several shelters in El Paso sued the Office of the Attorney General earlier this month to delay the release of records after the state agency demanded the immediate release of extensive documentation about the immigrant clients that it serves along the border. The Consumer Protection Division of the attorney generals office launched an investigation into Annunciation House on Feb. 7, demanding the release of documentation within one day, the small nonprofit requested an extension to review what information the organization was legally required to turn over. The state denied the extension, so the Catholic nonprofit sued the state, requesting a court rule on which documents the group must hand over to the attorney general. Additionally, to buy time, Annunciation House also requested a restraining order against the attorney general to grant the Catholic organization relief from the states immediate demands. In turn, Attorney General Ken Paxton announced his office was suing the organization for failing to comply with the demand and suggested the religious nonprofit of worsening illegal immigration. If a judge sides with the state, the lawsuit could prevent the group from operating in Texas, which its done since 1976. He's using documents as an excuse to shut down a religious organization he doesnt agree with, Jerome Wesevich, a lawyer with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid representing Annunciation House, said of Paxton. In a Tuesday evening statement, Paxton accused Annunciation House of a series of offenses, which included smuggling people across the southern border and operating a stash house. The chaos at the southern border has created an environment where NGOs, funded with taxpayer money from the Biden Administration, facilitate astonishing horrors including human smuggling, Paxton said. Wesevich said Paxton obviously disagrees with the services Annunciation House provides, which include providing shelter to refugees, but he doesnt understand why so much bluster is necessary. The tone of the papers he filed is so aggressive, these are church ladies, Wesevich said. Emails between the Office of the Attorney General and Wesevich included in court filings revealed the urgency in which the state was seeking documents. Although the statute entitles us to immediate access, we nevertheless gave your client time today to consult internally and with its attorneys regarding our Request to Examine, Levi Fuller, an assistant attorney general, wrote to Wesevich at the end of the business day on Feb. 7. Unless your client provides us access to the specified records in its possession by tomorrow, February 8, we will deem it to be in non-compliance. For nearly half a century, Annunciation House has operated several shelters in El Paso, assisting immigrants and refugees who are experiencing homelessness with various needs including housing and providing information on how to complete legal documents needed to claim asylum in the United States. The group said it has helped hundreds of thousands of refugees who have come through El Paso by giving them food and keeping them off city streets. The Attorney Generals illegal, immoral and anti-faith position to shut down Annunciation House is unfounded, Ruben Garcia, the director of Annunciation House, said in a statement. If the work that Annunciation House conducts is illegal so too is the work of our local hospitals, schools, and food banks. In court filings from last week, the state argued that because Annunciation House did not comply with the states demand for documents, the court should revoke the nonprofits Texas registration. Included in the attorney generals filing was a copy of an El Paso Matters story from January that reported on Annunciation Houses efforts to help new immigrants apply for asylum. Additionally, the filing included two sworn affidavits from Anthony Carter and William Taylor, two investigators with the Office of the Attorney General, outlining conversations they had with staff at Annunciation House and how the organization helps guests. The administrative subpoena sent to Annunciation House demanded some of the organizations documents from January 2022 until this month. The documents included referrals made on behalf of the group to legal service; identifying information about people who have received services from Annunciation House; and all applications with the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, which provides federal funding for organizations providing services to address hunger and homelessness. Paxtons office has repeatedly sued the Biden administration over its immigration policies, characterizing them as open border policies. Some of those legal cases have gone to the conservative-majority U.S. Supreme Court, which has ruled in favor of the Biden administration, reaffirming decades-long precedent that the federal government has sole authority over immigration laws. A hearing on both of the matters the request for clarification of the administrative subpoena and the request to revoke Annunciation Houses Texas registration will take place at some point before March 7 in the 205th Judicial District Court in El Paso, Wesevich said. Uriel Garcia contributed to this story. 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. When tickets go on sale this spring, Tribune members will save big. Donate to join or renew today. A Kent man has pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Seattle to buying more than 100 guns, with some of those guns ending up used in crimes. In whats known as straw purchasing, Dion Jamar Cooper pleaded guilty to buying guns, and then selling them to people legally not allowed to possess a firearm. It is not surprising that more than two dozen of the firearms have been linked to crimes, said U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. The investigation started in January 2023 when robbers assaulted and tried to rob a woman in Seattles Rainier Valley. Police found a gun her car that was dropped by one of the suspects. A background check of the firearm showed that it was bought by Cooper a few weeks before. A deeper dive into Coopers background showed he bought 107 firearms since June 2021. Of those 107 firearms, 26 of the recovered guns are linked to crimes. Agents began tracking 31-year old Cooper as he kept buying firearms and storing them at his house. Cooper pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements in connection with acquiring the firearms, one count of straw purchasing firearms and one count of trafficking in firearms. He faces up to 15 years in prison for the straw purchasing and trafficking charges, and up to 10 years in the firearms acquisition charge. Cooper is scheduled to be sentenced on May 17, 2024. Kentucky lawmakers are moving to close loopholes in the states Vintage Distilled Spirits law, which has created a thriving but legally questionable market in highly sought-after bourbons including Weller and Blantons. Legislation filed Jan. 31 passed a committee on Feb. 21 and is heading to the House floor that would, among other things, make it illegal and punishable with jail time for someone to buy or sell more than 24 packages or bottles from a single person in a year. Sign up for our LexGo Eat & Drink newsletters The latest on food, dining and bourbon delivered right to your inbox for free. See what's happening in the world of bourbon, including buying, tasting tips and more on Tuesday. Stick around for the biggest restaurant news in Central Kentucky on Thursday. Sign up here. In 2023, the Herald-Leader analyzed Vintage Distilled Spirits sales reported to the Kentucky Department of Alcohol Beverage Control and found some individuals sold hundreds of bottles to retailers over the five years since the Vintage Distilled Spirits Act was passed. One man sold five cases of Weller Special Reserve, a case of Weller Antique 107 and half a case of Weller Full Proof in May 2021 to one store in one visit. Then came back in June with four more cases of Weller Special Reserve. Bourbon CEO: Kentucky vintage law fueling secondary, smuggled & counterfeit market How to spot counterfeit Pappy and other pricey bourbons, from an expert Another sold at least 22 times in 18 months, bringing Blantons, Weller, E.H. Taylor, Eagle Rare, Old Rip Van Winkle, Pappy Van Winkle and similar brands to the same Lexington store. In a six-month stretch, he sold almost 600 bottles, including 40 bottles of Blantons in one March 2022 trip. Blantons, Weller, Pappy Van Winkle and other premium Kentucky bourbons are popular purchases with bourbon tourists, thousands of whom come to the state every year to visit distilleries and take home drinkable souvenirs. Many of those bottles come from flippers who scoop them up at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort or buy them out of state. Destined for a flip to a liquor store near you? Weller Special Reserve bottles for sale in the Buffalo Trace Distillery gift shop for $30 each. Customers can buy one bottle of each limited release every 90 days. Bottles of Weller are offered for sale at Revival Spirits in Covington, Ky., Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Revival is among the largest liquor stores buying and selling under the Kentucky Vintage Distilled Spirits law. They buy bourbons and other spirits unavailable elsewhere then sell by the drink, or by the bottle. Customers can taste a 40-year-old bourbon for $5. Stores like Bourbon Creek in Fayette Mall in Lexington do a brisk business in such bottles. Co-owner Mark Thomas told the Herald-Leader last year that the stores provide a service for a convenience fee. If you do it responsibly, then yes it can be a great opportunity for business and customers, Thomas said. But you have to take it upon yourself to comply. A lot of stores get lazy or dont do it properly, and ABC investigators have a lot bigger fish to fry. What the Kentucky Vintage Distilled Spirits bill would do to bourbon sales House Bill 439, filed by Rep. Matt Koch, R-Paris, would make it a Class A misdemeanor crime for a first offense punishable by up to a year in jail, and a Class D felony crime, punishable by up to five years in jail for each subsequent offense, to sell more than 24 bottles in a year or to buy more than 24 bottles in a year from the same seller. Koch said at a Feb. 7 hearing on the bill that the original Vintage Distilled Spirits legislation passed in 2018 created an unregulated fourth tier in the alcohol industry. ... People were selling thousands of bottles and turning this into this whole industry. So you inherited a bourbon collection. Can you sell it? Here are your legal options. How does Kentuckys vintage spirit law work for selling antique bourbons? The bill also would require retailers and bars that want to buy vintage distilled spirits to get a special license annually with a fee of $300. The purchasers would be required to submit monthly reports to the ABC with details on who they bought from and exactly what they bought. These reports would be used to track the number of purchases from individuals and make it easier for ABC to enforce the limits, which are in existing regulations, Koch said. Can the Kentucky ABC auction off seized bourbon? The bill also would allow the ABC to dispose of bottles it seizes through a public auction, with the money going into an Alcohol Wellness and Responsibility Education fund for grants to Kentucky high schools, colleges and universities to promote alcohol responsibility. Under an amendment passed on Feb. 21, the bottles would not be able to be auctioned until the appeals process had been exhausted and the case finalized. Justins House of Bourbon connection to proposed new legislation The committee also added language that would require Kentucky ABC to provide a notice of violation to a business within 14 days if bottles are seized. This issue has come up in the Justins House of Bourbon case; the vintage retailer sued the ABC in Franklin Circuit Court after the state agency took more than six months to file a notice of violations after seizing more than 600 bottles from two stores. The ABC case and the lawsuit are still pending. Koch said Wednesday that businesses deserve to know in a timely manner. ST. LOUIS On February 26, Kentucky Fried Chicken will embark on a culinary experiment that blurs the lines between fast food innovation and global gastronomic curiosity. Theyre introducing the Chizza to their menus across the United States, a mashup that places two Extra Crispy fried chicken filets beneath a layer of zesty marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and crisp pepperoni. KFC is quick to clarify: this is not pizza, its Chizzaa creation that defies traditional categories. The Chizzas journey began in 2015 in the Philippines, marking the start of a gastronomic odyssey that would see this KFC exclusive cross continents from Korea to Taiwan, India to Thailand, and Europe to Latin America. Now, its Americas turn to experience the Chizza, a product of culinary globalization served up in a fast-food context. To commemorate the Chizzas stateside debut, KFC is transforming a New York City outlet into a Chizzeria, a pop-up event at 242 E 14th St. that underscores the novelty and exclusivity of the offering. They are inviting patrons to experience this global sensation firsthand, free of charge. In 2023, KFC revisited its own history of culinary innovation by bringing back the Double Down sandwich for a limited run. This creation, which sandwiches cheese, bacon, and sauce between two fried chicken filets, mirrors the Chizzas spirit of culinary adventure. Selling over 10 million sandwiches in its debut month, the Double Downs success story sets a precedent for the Chizzas potential impact on the American fast-food scene. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. This is an excerpt from our true crime newsletter, Suspicious Circumstances, which sends the biggest unsolved mysteries, white-collar scandals and captivating cases straight to your inbox every week. Sign up here. Surveillance footage has become a crucial element of modern criminal investigations, and cases often hinge on video evidence. But several high-profile murder cases remain unsolved despite investigators finding and publicly sharing video of a prime suspect. Case in point: It seemed like a slam-dunk for investigators when they linked not only DNA of a Maryland womans alleged killer to a suspect in a Los Angeles home invasion they also had doorbell video of the suspect leaving the crime scene. Despite that video, alongside widely shared flyers about the crimes, six months have passed without a witness to identify the man suspected of killing Rachel Morin, a 37-year-old mother of five whose body was found on a hiking trail last summer. Six months after Morins killing, authorities last week released additional sketches of the suspect, hoping it will finally lead to a break in the case. But as it stands, Morins killing joins a number of baffling murder cases that remain unsolved despite video evidence of a suspect near a crime scene or even of the killing itself. Midlothian Police publicly released video and stills of the suspect in the killing of Terri Midlothian Police publicly released video and stills of the suspect in the killing of Terri "Missy" Bevers on April 18, 2016. On April 18, 2016, Terri Missy Bevers, a 45-year-old married mother of three daughters, was killed inside the North Texas church where she was scheduled to lead a 5 a.m. fitness class. Surveillance footage captured her driving into the church parking lot at 4:16 and entering the Midlothian Creekside Church at 4:20 a.m., according to a police timeline. One of her bootcamp students found her body just before 5. The person suspected of killing her, investigators said, was first captured on video at 3:50 a.m., so they had been there at least half an hour before Bevers arrived. Midlothian Police publicly released a chilling two-plus-minute video combining snippets of motion-activated security footage from inside the church that morning. In the nearly soundless footage, a person dressed in what appears to be riot gear, including a helmet, is seen wandering the halls of the church. Police can be seen in white block letters on the front and back of their tactical vest. Their movements are unhurried, almost casual, as they open various doors, peek inside, and continue on. Some rooms are locked, and a few times they try to break in, using a large hammer that they casually swing at their side while roaming the halls. Police have estimated the person in the video to be about 5 feet, 8 inches tall. They emphasized their unique walk or gait, noting that their feet point outward (more predominantly on the right), possibly due to an injury. Investigators couldnt determine the persons gender, though one search warrant described the suspect as having a feminine sway. Its unclear whether the hammer was used in the attack, because police havent shared many details about Bevers death. They revealed only that Bevers had suffered multiple puncture wounds on her head and chest, which they said were consistent with tools the suspect was carrying throughout the building. Bevers, who worked for the fitness company Camp Gladiator, posted a message on Facebook to her class the night before her killing. The class, which would normally take place in the parking lot, would be held inside because of rainy weather, she said, writing, NO EXCUSES You are Gladiators! If her killing was targeted, it pointed her killer to exactly where should be and when that morning. Investigators also released video surveillance footage of a sedan, possibly a Nissan Altima, slowly circling the parking lot of a nearby business in the early morning hours before Bevers killing. The suspect flips the cars lights off and on multiple times, briefly parks, and then leaves. Nothing from the church was stolen, and investigators found Bevers purse, iPad and guninside her pickup truck. In one search warrant, investigators claimed to have found evidence that Bevers and her husband, Brandon, were having problems with their marriage and finances, but they confirmed that Brandon was in Mississippi for an annual fishing trip at the time of her death. In a recent interview, he said that he believed his wifes killing was untargeted, which contradicts investigators theory. Nearly eight years since Bevers killing, investigators have yet to identify a person of interest or make an arrest. Elizabeth Liz Barraza was gunned down in her driveway just before sunrise on Jan. 19, 2019. The 29-year-old Houston woman was setting up for a garage sale outside her home when a person walked up and shot her four times with a revolver. Despite video of the shooting from a neighbors home security camera, the killer has not been identified. Like the Bevers case, it is unclear whether Barrazas killer was a man or woman; it was still dark and the cameras were not close enough to capture more than a shadowy figure. Also, authorities have said the killer might have been wearing a disguise: a wig, a long jacket and tall boots. The suspected shooter was driving a dark-colored four-door Nissan Frontier pickup truck, which security cameras, including the Barrazas own doorbell camera, captured driving around the neighborhood before and after the shooting. Investigators believe the driver was waiting for Sergio Barraza to leave for work. After he left, the driver parked on the street near the Barrazas home, leaving their headlights on. After firing the last shot, the shooter ran back to the truck and drove away, but authorities said the truck returned, likely to confirm that Barraza was dead. (She died the next day at the hospital.) According to investigators, Barraza said good morning to her killer before they shot her three times point-blank. She can be heard in the video footage screaming as she falls to the ground. The shooter fired a fourth round while Barraza was on her back. No motive has been identified for the killing. Sergio Barraza, who met his second wife, Amber, about a year and half after Lizs death, told KHOU-11 last year that he knows hes the prime suspect in peoples eyes, but investigators have never named him as a person of interest. He told the news station that both he and Amber had passed lie detector tests. Barrazas husband said the couple planned to use the proceeds from the garage sale for an upcoming trip to Florida to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary. The two were both Harry Potter and Star Wars fans, and Barraza often wore a Stormtrooper costume when she volunteered at local hospitals including the one where she died the day after the shooting. Security cameras captured Kris Jake-Moon, a 31-year-old Native American mother of two, leaving the Oasis Casino in Mesquite, Arizona, on Feb. 13, 1998. Hours later, authorities said, she was beaten to death. In the video, she is seen leaving with several people, including a man in a cowboy hat. He remains a person of interest in her killing but has never been located. A co-worker told investigators that he knew the man only by his first name, and that he never returned to work or collected his paycheck after Jake-Moons disappearance, ABC15 reported. Jake-Moons body was found Feb. 16, covered by a blue blanket in a brushy desert area near the Arizona-Nevada border. Mojave County Sheriffs officials said she had been struck multiple times in her head, and an autopsy concluded she had died from blunt force trauma. Investigators found no evidence to indicate she had been sexually assaulted. Relatives of Jake-Moon told USA Today that they believe that one reason Jake-Moons case remains unsolved is because of a shoddy investigation, emblematic of the uninvestigated and underreported widespread violence against Indigenous people, which the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) movement is seeking to combat. The bodies of Canadian billionaire philanthropists Barry and Honey Sherman were found in their Toronto mansion on Dec. 15, 2017. They had been dead for about 36 hours. Despite their wealth and prominence, the case remains unsolved and shrouded in mystery. Investigators are hopeful, however, that surveillance video of an unknown person walking on a sidewalk in their neighborhood on Dec. 13 might someday lead to a break in the case. The Toronto Police Service shared the video with the public in December of 2021, saying that the walkers purpose in the neighborhood is unexplained and that the timing lines up with when investigators believe the Shermans were killed. Interestingly, authorities asked people to pay attention to the suspects distinctive gait one of the things that stood out in the videos of the suspect in Missy Bevers killing. Authorities determined the person to be between about 5 feet, 6 inches, and 5 feet, 9 inches tall. Barry Sherman, 75, and his wife, 70, had been married for more than 40 years and had four children, who each stood to inherit one-quarter of the couples estate. Barry Sherman, who founded a pharmaceutical company that sold generic drugs, was worth at least $3 billion when he died, according to Forbes. The initial investigation got off to a rocky start. According to CTV News Toronto, authorities said they found no signs of a break-in and that investigators were not looking for any outstanding suspects suggesting either a murder-suicide or that the couple had both killed themselves. But according to crime scene and autopsy photos and notes obtained by the Toronto Star, the couple had been killed and their bodies were staged. They were found in a semi-seated position on the deck of their indoor pool, their necks tied to a low railing with mens leather belts. They were fully clothed, including their shoes, and Barry was wearing his glasses. The Shermans relatives hired a private investigator and paid a more experienced pathologist to conduct second autopsies. That pathologist determined that the couple had been bound at the wrists and strangled with ligatures significantly thinner than the leather belts. No bindings or ligatures matching his findings were found at the scene. On Jan. 26, 2018, authorities announced at a news conference that the Shermans deaths were a targeted double homicide. The family has originally offered a reward of $10 million (Canadian dollars) for information that could help solve the crime. In December 2022, the couples son announced that the family had added another $25 million, bringing the total reward to $35 million. No one has publicly come forward to identify the man walking in the surveillance video. More than five years after the bodies of 14-year-old Libby German and 13-year-old Abby Williams were found near a hiking trail in Delphi, Indiana, on Feb. 14, 2017, authorities announced they had arrested and charged a local man, Richard Allen, with their killings. Grainy video of a man walking on a bridge filmed by one of the alleged killers victims gained nationwide attention after it was circulated by police. But there was a problem: Nobody in Delphi recognized Allen, despite video and audio evidence recovered from Germans cellphone, in which the suspect said, Guys, down the hill. Investigators had apparently unearthed a 2017 interview Allen gave with a police officer in which he placed himself at the scene when the girls disappeared. Related... King Charles was seen back at work for the first time since revealing his cancer diagnosis. The 75-year-old monarch met with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday. Wonderful to see you looking so well, Sunak told the king, according to the BBC. Its all done with mirrors, the king joked. He said the supportive messages and cards sent to him from the public had reduced me to tears. The king also spoke about his admiration for cancer charities before a private meeting with Sunak in the Audience Room, which usually occurs every week. He is continuing duties as head of state but has pulled back from public engagements while he receives treatment for an unspecified type of cancer. Buckingham Palace made the cancer announcement in early February. During the kings recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer, it said in a statement. His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer. Prince Harry made a whirlwind trip back to the U.K. to see his father after discovering he had cancer. The younger royal told Good Morning America that he was hopeful his fathers health battle could have a reunifying effect on the family. I think any illness, any sickness brings families together, he said. The news came after an unprecedented run of royal medical drama, with Kate Middleton having been admitted to hospital for abdominal surgery and Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrews ex-wife, announcing she has skin cancer. 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. King Charles said messages of support had "reduced me to tears", as he was seen for the first time back on official duties since revealing his cancer diagnosis. He was meeting Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who said: "Wonderful to see you looking so well." "It's all done by mirrors," the King joked, lightening the mood. The King told Mr Sunak that he had been very moved by all the cards and good wishes that had been sent to him. The monarch shook hands with Mr Sunak as he arrived for the Buckingham Palace audience on Wednesday afternoon, with both doubtlessly aware of the public scrutiny of the King's health. Looking relaxed and wearing a blue pinstriped suit, the King sat down with the prime minister in the ornately decorated Audience Room, surrounded by photos of his royal relations and a painting by Canaletto of the Thames. While he receives treatment the King has stopped carrying out public visits, but he is continuing with his duties as head of state, such as this regular meeting with the prime minister. The King joked looking well was "all done by mirrors" Mr Sunak was filmed arriving and the King told him how much he had appreciated all the messages he had received and his admiration for cancer charities. "I've had so many wonderful messages and cards, it's reduced me to tears most of the time," said the King. But the rest of the meeting with the prime minister, which lasted about 45 minutes, was held in private as usual. The King has previously been seen heading to church in Sandringham and being driven to and from Clarence House in London, but this was the first sight of him in such a formal setting since his cancer diagnosis was announced more than two weeks ago. Earlier this afternoon, the King attended the monthly meeting of the Privy Council, a body of advisers to the monarch, mostly made up of senior politicians from the House of Commons and House of Lords. Since his diagnosis with an unspecified type of cancer, the King has been receiving treatment as an outpatient. He has continued with the administrative side of his role, such as dealing with government papers in their red boxes and signing documents. The King and Queen were seen attending church in Sandringham on Sunday But he has stepped back from the round of royal visits where he would usually meet the public or attend events. Wednesday's meeting with Mr Sunak was the confidential audience between the King and prime minister, usually held each week. The meeting is a traditional opportunity for the politically-neutral monarch to talk about current affairs of state with the prime minister of the day. Previous prime ministers have spoken of these meetings as a chance to talk about ideas outside the usual party political pressures. Edward Heath, Conservative prime minister in the 1970s, said of his meetings with Queen Elizabeth II: "It was always a relief to be able to discuss everything with someone, knowing full well that there was not the slightest danger of any information leaking." Labour's Harold Wilson, who was said to have got on well with the late Queen, had meetings that grew longer, stretching on occasion to two hours. Laos-China cultural tourism promotion association established Xinhua) 09:05, February 21, 2024 VIENTIANE, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Laos-China Cultural Tourism Promotion Association has been established in Laos, aiming to contribute to the tourism sector and bring more benefits and convenience to the two countries. According to Lao News Agency on Tuesday, a meeting to establish the association was held in the Lao capital Vientiane on Monday. The association will become a tool and mechanism for promotion of tourism of Laos and China, especially in the work of advertising to attract Chinese tourists to Laos. It was expected that the number of Chinese tourists to visit Laos will increase rapidly, the report said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Construction on Interstate 35 will continue as the Texas Department of Transportation tries to keep up with growth between San Antonio and Austin, TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams says. William Luther/Staff SAN MARCOS If youre hoping for a future when theres no construction work snarling traffic on Interstate 35, Texas Department of Transportation Executive Director Marc Williams has some bad news. The work will never conclude on Interstate 35, Williams said Tuesday at a regional transportation summit in San Marcos. The rapid population growth in the San Antonio-to-Austin corridor has put significant pressure on TxDOT to keep up with the ever-rising tide of traffic between San Antonio and Austin, Williams said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We add 1,300 new residents every day in Texas, an extraordinary rate of growth. The demand on us is really to keep pace, Williams said at the summit, which was hosted by the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater San Marcos Partnership. TxDOT has a record $39 billion of construction projects in the pipeline statewide, and that number is likely to exceed $40 billion soon, Williams said. It also has a record number of contracts in place and a record number of payments going out to contractors, he said. Those payments are 20% to 25% higher than a year ago, he said. That includes the I-35 Northeast Expansion project, which calls for adding elevated lanes on I-35 to make room for more traffic. The first phase, NEX Central, which consists of 9.5 miles of elevated lanes from Loop 410 North in San Antonio to FM 3009 in Schertz, is already underway. Two more phases, NEX North and South, ultimately would stretch from Loop 410 South to FM 1103, with the total project adding 15 miles of elevated lanes. Williams told the San Antonio Express-News that TxDOT will continue looking at that kind of double-decker approach in the region to add more capacity in its existing footprint. Its a definite maybe, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We have to continue to do what we can within the right-of-way, he said. Collaboration will be key to the agencys efforts to keep up with growth, he said, including working with the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, known as AAMPO, and the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, or CAMPO, which cover the I-35 corridor in Central Texas. At Tuesdays summit, elected officials from four counties between San Antonio and Austin agreed that cooperation is crucial, saying its impossible to get large transportation projects done on an individual level. We dont have the ability to do these projects by ourselves, Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher said. How can we join forces to get all of these things done? He said he expects the four-county region to continue not just planning together, but potentially working together on joint funding for certain projects. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He and Caldwell County Commissioner Ed Theriot both said another priority should be preserving and protecting rights-of-way for future transportation projects, especially as development in the region sprawls across previously rural land. Theriot said most of his constituents understand the need to preserve that land now, even when it requires planning for roads through former ranch land. More than half of Caldwell County residents commute to work outside the county, he said, making road connectivity more important. Land is selling at a rate that its never sold at before, Kutscher said. Those places are changing hands, theyre being developed, theyre being bought. If counties arent moving now to designate land for future roads, theyll end up using more taxpayer money to acquire it later and bulldoze homes to make room for roads, he said. Its an extremely delicate balance, Kutscher said. But I truly believe that one of the most important things a county can do is planning and protecting and preserving right-of-ways. Comal County Commissioner Kevin Webb pointed to Loop 337, which connects I-35 and Texas 46. The land for that project was set aside decades ago, and that same foresight is needed now to prepare for future demands, Webb said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hays County Commissioner Lon Shell said in the past, it was natural for Hays County to align itself more with Austin, while Comal and Guadalupe counties looked south to San Antonio. That was especially true when growth was coming faster in Hays County, he said. I think those days have changed, he said, as the entire region is growing and facing the same questions about traffic, property rights and maintaining individual identities. The King has said the messages and cards he has received since his cancer diagnosis have reduced him to tears as he returned to his audiences with the Prime Minister for the first time this year. He told Rishi Sunak: Ive had so many messages and cards, you cant believe it. Theyve reduced me to tears, most of them. When Mr Sunak told the monarch that it was wonderful to see you looking so well, he joked in reply that it was all done by mirrors. Photographs and footage of the first minute of the Buckingham Palace audience show the King appearing to be in good health, if a little croaky-voiced. The photographs are the first official images of the King at work since his diagnosis. He has postponed all public-facing duties, but is continuing with behind-the-scenes work on his red boxes of state papers. Usually, the meeting is held entirely in private, but the monarch and his aides are mindful of the publics interest in his health as he undergoes treatment. Shaking hands with the King before walking to sit down, Mr Sunak said: Well, were all behind you, the countrys behind you. Addressing the monarchs diagnosis, he added: Its also nice to see the spotlight that its shone on the work that charities do in this area. The King replied: I hear theres been a lot more potential interest in those wonderful cancer charities, many of which Ive been patron of for years. Rishi Sunak told the King: Were all behind you, the countrys behind you - Jonathan Brady/PA The Prime Minister was introduced into the Private Audience Room by Lieutenant Commander Will Thornton of the Fleet Air Arm, who is the Kings new equerry. The Palace does not generally permit photographs of the audience, traditionally considered a private meeting in which Prime Ministers can unburden themselves to the monarch and seek advice. The King will have had much to discuss with Mr Sunak after a long break from official audiences over Christmas and early this year. Their conversation may have covered this weeks intervention by the Prince of Wales, who called for an end to fighting in Gaza. The last in-person audience for the King and Mr Sunak was on Dec 13, which was listed in the court circular as being held at Buckingham Palace shortly after a meeting of the Privy Council. The King and Mr Sunak share a joke during their audience at Buckingham Palace - Jonathan Brady/PA Mr Sunak telephoned the King shortly after his cancer diagnosis was announced to express his sympathy and best wishes. Their official audiences had been due to resume on Wednesday, but the palace had been wary of confirming the Kings schedule too far in advance as he undergoes treatment. Aides are working on a week-by-week basis as the King, like any other patient, learns how he has responded to the treatment. Downing Street and Buckingham Palace have been keen to emphasise that official duties are continuing. On Feb 7, asked whether Mr Sunak would travel to Sandringham, in Norfolk, for his discussions with the King, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We dont in general, and we are not going to, get into the habit of commenting on the PMs conversations with the King. But we have agreed with the Palace in this specific instance to confirm that they will be speaking on the phone later. The King and Queen have been based at Sandringham since his diagnosis was made public. The King has been seen walking to church on Sundays since his illness was announced. He has also been photographed on several occasions travelling by car between Buckingham Palace and Clarence House while in London for treatment. His most recent ordinary public engagement was on Dec 14, when he attended the Royal Courts of Justice to thank those who work in the judicial system, meet students, view an exhibition on female judges and hear about the work of voluntary magistrates. Since then, he has appeared in the court circular only a handful of times, including the prizegiving for a school at Sandringham. The King is now at Windsor, where he will be close to the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three young children, who are back at Adelaide Cottage having spent time together in Norfolk over half-term. Prince Harry gave an interview with US breakfast television, intended to be about the Invictus Games, in which he said his fathers illness could lead to a reconciliation between them. 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 pacific nation of Kiribati has a population of 115,372 (2023 est.) spread over 33 islands - although only 21 of the islands are habitable (MICHAEL J. FIELD) It was too good to be true. The government of Kiribati on Wednesday said it was not responsible for a light-hearted social media smackdown that went viral, prompting laughs around the world. Earlier this week, @KiribatiGov gained notoriety when it responded to a snarky post on X -- previously Twitter -- where a user gently teased the Pacific Island nation for having place names like Poland, Paris, London and Banana. "I think Kiribati just gave up when it came time to name cities," user @VoxDocVoxDei posted, next to a map of Kiritimati Island. The response from @KiribatiGov came swiftly: "Fine. You're not invited." The post has been viewed 27 million times and was liked by almost half a million users. But despite claiming to be from "The Official Account for the Republic of Kiribati", sadly the account is not legit. "It's a fake account," senior presidential communications official Tearinibeia Enoo-Teabo told AFP. He said that X had been approached to address the issue of the unauthorised account, but "(we) still do not know who runs it". If the perpetrator is on the island, he or she may be tricky to track down among the population of roughly 130,000 people. P.S. It's pronounced "Kir-ih-bas", not "Kir-ih-bati". ryj-arb/aha KIRO 7 and the League of Women Voters of Washington Education Fund (LWVWA-EF) will be partnering up to hose a pair of candidate forums for the states upcoming gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races. KIRO 7 and the LWVWA will work together to make sure all voters have a voice. That means questions and discussion topics will be sourced from the general public, and then vetted with local nonpartisan organizations and nonprofits to make sure that the issues that matter most to our diverse communities are at the forefront of these forums. KIRO 7 remains committed to delivering greater context and understanding on the stories that impact our citizens the most, said KIRO 7 Vice President and General Manager. These races will shape our state, and our country and shape the lives of Western Washington residents for years to come. Delivering live, equal access to the candidates in these races is vital, he continued. In these forums, voters will hear directly from the candidates in real time, and gather the information they need to cast their vote. The League of Women Voters invites every eligible voter to learn about the candidates who wish to make decisions on their behalf, LWVWA President Mary Coltrane added. The League works vigorously to ensure voters have all the information they need to cast an informed ballot. Our commitment to democracy is unwavering, and we are pleased to partner with KIRO in this important work. These live forums will be hosted on-air and streaming on KIRO 7 on television, online, and the KIRO 7 News phone and TV apps. We will also be working with the Washington State Association of Broadcasters as well as local TV, radio, and newspapers to air the broadcasts across the state. KIRO 7 and the LWVWA may also expand their partnership to include more events for down-ballot races based on voter demand. The Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, where jurors heard closing arguments at the trial of David Nelson. (Los Angeles Times) One Monday evening in 2013, a gunman walked into Rigoberto Dupre's auto repair shop in South Los Angeles and shot the 54-year-old in the back. A bullet to the chest and two more in the head finished him off. Dupre died shirtless and in bluejeans, lying on the floor of the business that he dreamed of one day expanding beyond the converted house it occupied on Florence Avenue. Dupre's killing initially stumped detectives. The story, as told by the prosecution, only emerged years later and with many questions left unanswered. Dupre's business dealings set him on a "collision course" with the man accused of orchestrating his death, Deputy Dist. Atty. Paul Thompson said Tuesday at the trial of David Nelson, 50, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of murdering and conspiracy to murder Dupre. Hoping to make some money to invest in his auto repair business, Dupre got involved in a fraudulent deal with Nelson, Thompson told the jury in his closing argument. Unlike Dupre, an "unsophisticated" man who fixed cars six days a week, Nelson drove a Rolls-Royce and lived in a large home in Fontana, Thompson said. Nelson was trying to steal equity from an Inglewood apartment complex, the prosecutor said. Posing as the property owner, Dupre obtained a loan against the building's value for $375,000, which was then converted into gold coins. Nelson's attorney, Jovan Blacknell, noted there was no evidence that Nelson received any of the gold. About two years after the loan was made, investigators for the financing company confronted Dupre, who "laid it all out," Thompson said. Shown a lineup of potential suspects, Dupre picked out Nelson as the man who put him up to it, records show. Thompson argued this sealed Dupre's fate. Dupre's son would later tell detectives that Nelson showed up at his father's business and warned the son: "You know what could happen if he talks." According to prosecutors, Nelson offered an associate, Tina Alexander, $5,000 to orchestrate Dupre's murder. Alexander, 62, pleaded guilty to murder and testified against Nelson in exchange for a sentence of 15 years to life. On paper, Alexander made a living overseeing a medical billing company, but in reality, Blacknell told the jury, she was a sophisticated criminal who had been "running a crime family" for three decades. Her past included a federal bank robbery conviction in 1997. Alexander's husband and brother-in-law ran a crew that specialized in robbing check-cashing businesses by cutting holes in the roof and rappelling down from the ceiling, Blacknell said. "Tina Alexander is a fascinating character," he told the jury. "Tina could be the villain in a movie. If somebody made that movie, people might not even believe it." Prosecutors displayed text messages and phone calls that showed Alexander conducted surveillance of Dupre's shop and called the business to see what hours Dupre worked. She sent a photograph of Dupre to her husband, Byron "Kid" Alexander, whose phone was being wiretapped by Ventura County sheriff's detectives investigating the check-cashing robberies. "See if bossman there," he wrote in a text message to his wife, who then called Dupre and spoke for a minute and 10 seconds. After hanging up, Tina Alexander wrote: "Will be there in 30 mins." Their plans were derailed when Ventura County detectives moved in to arrest Byron Alexander in connection with the check-cashing robberies. "I'm in a high-speed chase with the motherfing police," he told his wife during the 10-mile pursuit, while driving the car that Tina Alexander had rented for the purpose of murdering Dupre, Thompson told the jury. Byron Alexander was found guilty of false imprisonment and second-degree robbery for a check-cashing heist, but his conviction would eventually be reversed on appeal. He was not charged in Dupre's death. After her husband's arrest, Tina Alexander asked her brother-in-law to rent another car. She parked it on 69th Street, a few blocks from Dupre's shop, and left the keys inside, the prosecutor said. That evening, a gunman walked into the shop and killed Dupre without saying a word, Thompson said. "Wallet was there, money was there," Dupre's son told ABC7 at the time, discounting robbery as a motive. "He didn't pat him down, nothing. He just shot him and left." The prosecutor said the gunman walked through the back of the shop and climbed over a fence to the alley, where he fled in the getaway car. "From start to finish, this was professional," Thompson told the jury. Blacknell urged the jury to consider the questions that prosecutors had not answered. The spoils of the fraud that set the alleged conspiracy in motion more than $300,000 in gold coins were never recovered. In all of Nelson's phone, internet and bank records, police and prosecutors did not find a record of Nelson soliciting someone to murder Dupre after Byron Alexander was arrested. And the biggest unknown of all: The shooter has never been identified, despite a $50,000 reward offer from the Los Angeles City Council to loosen the lips of potential witnesses. "When does [Nelson] hire and recruit and pay this unknown killer?" Blacknell asked. Jurors will begin deliberating Wednesday. 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. A police investigation is underway after a 16-year-old Owasso High School student died earlier this month after sustaining injuries in an altercation on school grounds. Medical examiners are still completing their investigation into what killed Nex Benedict, but police said Feb. 21 that an autopsy determined Nex did not die as a result of trauma. The news of the high school sophomore's death has generated widespread attention, in part because of the student's gender-expansive identity and claims of bullying that led up to the fight. More: Family identifies Nex Benedict as nonbinary Oklahoma teen who died after bathroom beating Authorities have disclosed some information in the last week in an attempt to dispel rumors circulating online, but many questions remain unanswered, though, including what killed the 16-year-old. What we know, and what we don't about, the death of Nex Benedict What has the Owasso Police Department said happened that day? Owasso student Nex Benedict According to the Owasso Police Department, officers were called to Bailey Medical Center at 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 7 by the parent of a 16-year-old female student from Owasso High School. Penny Hamrick, an Owasso police detective, wrote in a search warrant filed in Tulsa County courts that Nex's parent Sue Benedict wanted to report the assault and asked police to talk with school administrators about what had happened. Sue Benedict did not ask officers to pursue charges against the other students at that time, Hamrick wrote. The Owasso police said no report of the fight was made to their department before the notification at the hospital, and a school resource officer took a report at the hospital. The Owasso Police Department has released bodycam footage of a school resource officer's interview with Nex Benedict. The interview took place at an Owasso hospital about two hours after the Feb. 7 fight. Nex was later discharged from the hospital. Nex was later discharged from the hospital. But shortly before 3 p.m. the next day, Benedict called 911 to report Nex was experiencing medical issues, including shallow breathing. Sue Benedict told the 911 operator about the altercation at school and said Nex had hit their head on the bathroom floor, Hamrick wrote. Emergency medical crews performed CPR on Nex and drove them to a Tulsa hospital, where they were pronounced dead around 3:30 p.m. More: Family, friends of Nex Benedict remember Owasso teen: 'We are incredibly sad' What's happened in the Owasso police investigation so far? Lt. Nick Boatman, a spokesman for Owasso Police, said police are conducting a very active and thorough investigation and are anticipating autopsy and toxicology results. Boatman said he cannot comment on any possible charges related to the case until officers receive more information from medical examiners. We do not want to make any rash conclusions about any part of the investigation or the cause of death, he said in an email. Unfortunately, its just going to take time. In the search warrant filed in Tulsa courts by Owasso police, Hamrick said police were looking for traces of blood, as well as searching school records, including photographs, documents and attendance data. In a document indicating what officers had collected, Hamrick said police gathered 137 photos and collected two swabs from stains in a bathroom. They also obtained school records, she wrote. "Owasso police officers suspect foul play involved and need to initiate an in-depth investigation into the death," Hamrick wrote. Owasso police said they are spending several days interviewing students and teachers, then will turn over their findings to the Tulsa County district attorneys office. Officers also may bring in other agencies, such as the FBI, if they determine a major crime occurred, said Lt. Nick Boatman, a spokesman for Owasso Police. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office based in Tulsa said she could not confirm nor deny whether the office was involved in the case. Boatman said investigators are still waiting for initial autopsy results before deciding whether to recommend charges be filed in the case. The state medical examiners office said its full investigation into the students death could take four to six months. More: Police investigating death of Owasso student who died the day after school bathroom beating Nex's family plans to conduct an independent investigation, relatives confirmed in their statement issued Feb. 21. They also urged officials to "hold those responsible to account and to ensure it never happens again." What has the Owasso Public School District said? District officials had been tight-lipped about what happened. But in a statement issued Tuesday, spokesman Jordan Korphage pushed back against statements that call into question the districts commitment to student safety and security. Korphage said a fight happened in a school bathroom on the afternoon of Feb. 7. He said the students were in the bathroom for less than two minutes before other students and a school employee broke up the fight. He said a nurse checked on all students and recommended one teen seek further medical attention out of the abundance of caution. Korphage disputed claims that the teen who later died was unable to walk immediately after the fight. All students involved in the altercation walked under their own power to the assistant principals office and nurses office, he said. He declined to say how many students were involved. He also said he could not say whether any students were disciplined afterward, citing privacy laws. What are people saying about Nex Benedict on TikTok, social media Word of the student's death spread across social media platforms like TikTok the weekend after Nex's funeral was held. Many platforms have cited 2 News in Tulsa, which reported that the teen and a classmate were beaten in a school bathroom by three older students. The television station spoke with a woman who said her daughter was the other student injured in the fight. The woman, who was not named in the news report, claimed school officials did not seek emergency medical care for the student who later died. Many on social media cite right-wing rhetoric shared by Oklahoma politicians as a cause for vitriol toward nonbinary individuals. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Nex Benedict: What we know in death of Oklahoma teen NASA's thinking behind CLPS is to delegate the delivery of its lunar science hardware to the private sector, reducing costs to taxpayers as it prepares to return astronauts to the Moon under the flagship Artemis program later this decade (KARIM JAAFAR) The year 2024 promises to be a busy one for American Moon landings, all under a new partnership between NASA and the space industry. A first attempt under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative ended in disappointing failure last month, but a second, led by Houston-based Intuitive Machines, will attempt on Thursday to return the United States to Moon for the first time in five decades. NASA's thinking behind CLPS is to delegate the delivery of its science hardware to the private sector, reducing costs to taxpayers as it prepares to return astronauts to the surface under the flagship Artemis program later this decade. - Purchasing services - Established in 2018, CLPS operates on the principle of purchasing services from commercial partners, rather than buying their hardware. Joel Kearns, a senior NASA official involved with CLPS, said it would allow the agency to be more cost effective and do more frequent trips, even if "we don't know how many of the early attempts will be successful." But the space agency is offsetting that risk by contracting with multiple companies offering different technical solutions. It also hopes those companies will in turn build up their own clientele, for example research institutions and others wanting to ship gear to the Moon, creating a wider lunar economy in which NASA is just one of many customers. The approach is completely different from that used during the Apollo era, when NASA dictated its industrial contracts down to the last bolt. "When you have unlimited funds, like in the Apollo days, yes, you can do incredible things," said Trent Martin of Intuitive Machines. "Now, can we find a way to do it for a lower cost? Can we find a way to do it, where there's a marketplace that is not driven solely by government funds?" - Fledgling companies - Fourteen companies have been pre-selected to be in the running for contracts, with eight firm missions so far planned. Many of the companies involved are considered fledging, rather than legacy aerospace giants, reflecting the initiative's experimental nature. The first attempt, led by Pittsburgh-based Astrobotic, failed to reach the Moon in January after developing an in-flight fuel leak shortly after separating from its rocket. It could get another shot later this year, to carry an important water-seeking NASA rover to the south pole, but the green light will depend on the outcome of a detailed review of its first mission. Intuitive Machines, founded in 2013, is also targeting a region near the south pole. It has two more missions set for this year. Another Texas company, Firefly Aerospace, has two missions, including one in 2024, with its Blue Ghost lander. Finally, Massachusetts-based Draper, which built the computer that ran the Apollo spaceships, will attempt to land on the far side of the Moon in 2025. NASA paid both Astrobotic and Intuitive Machines around $100 million each for their respective first missions. - Lasting presence - CLPS deliveries serve the bigger goal of better understanding the environmental risks -- from radiation to lunar dust -- that face American astronauts when they touch down on the surface no sooner than 2026. Unlike during Apollo, when the United States was driven by the Cold War to act fast and chose near the equator for five short trips, NASA is now taking its time to build a "sustained presence," involving habitats, on the south pole. Here, it hopes to harvest ice for drinking water and rocket fuel, with an eye on using our cosmic neighbor as a waypoint for crewed missions to Mars. la/ia/dw South Florida rapper Kodak Black is going to be a free man, thanks to a federal judges ruling. Black, whose legal name is Bill Kapri, had been detained in a Miami federal lock-up since December for running afoul of his probation on a gun-related conviction. On Wednesday, he admitted to a technical violation that he failed to contact his probation officer on a regular basis. U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez revoked the rappers probation but then gave him a sentence of time served at the Miami Federal Detention Center paving the way for his immediate release after more than two months in the downtown lock-up. At a brief hearing, Martinez expressed concern for Black, saying he has wasted his good talent by excessively using prescription drugs. Please straighten out your act, Martinez told Kodak, 26, whose girlfriend is expecting their second child. Black had been held since mid-December on a probation violation stemming from a 2019 case in Miami federal court. Black pleaded guilty to lying on a background check form when he purchased handguns at a Hialeah weapons store, court records show. READ MORE: Kodak Black remains jailed in Miami. Is the South Florida rapper getting out anytime soon? He was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, though his term was commuted by former President Donald Trump in January 2021, shortly before he left office. The rapper, however, was still on probation for three years, with the period ending in January. Blacks defense attorneys, Bradford Cohen and Robert Buschel, said they were very happy with the outcome, calling the judges ruling fair. More legal woes Kodak, who has been treated for drug addiction, still has other legal problems related to two criminal cases in Broward County. Last week, a Broward judge ruled that he will no longer need to report to the Broward jail whenever released from federal custody in Miami. Circuit Court Judge Barbara Duffy on Friday reinstated the Blacks bond, setting his bail in a December case at $5,000. Duffy ordered that Kodak refrain from driving and surrender his drivers license to his attorney, Cohen. In December, police say they found Kodak asleep at the wheel in a Bentley with drugs on him in Plantation. The rapper was charged with oxycodone possession, evidence tampering and improperly stopping, standing or parking. In early February, Duffy dismissed the main drug possession charge but not the other offenses, writing that prosecutors could not refute or negate the fact that Blacks prescription for oxycodone was filled by a pharmacy. Cohen said Kodak argued for his release on bond in the Broward case because he has a child due soon. Court records show that Maranda Johnson, the babys mother, wrote the judge a letter stating that the couple is expecting a beautiful bundle of joy and ... would be elated to have [Kodak] home to bring a new life into this world and begin to nest. Broward prosecutor Jonathan Goodman, however, opposed Duffy reinstating Kodaks bond. Goodman pointed out that the rapper had picked up the new charges while out on bond awaiting trial in a 2022 Broward case accusing him of drug possession and trafficking. In 2022, Black was pulled over in his purple Dodge Durango by the Florida Highway Patrol. State troopers say they found 31 oxycodone tablets inside the car. READ MORE: Kodak Black is behind bars in Miami. If hes released, a Broward judge wants him in jail The disruption comes weeks after a new rule entered into force in Kosovo on February 1 (STRINGER) Long lines snaked around banks in northern Kosovo on Wednesday, as ethnic Serbs waited to receive salaries and pensions in limited tranches following a government regulation targeting Serbia's dinar currency. The disruption comes weeks after a new rule entered into force in Kosovo on February 1 that made the euro the only legal currency for payments in commercial transactions and effectively banned the use of the dinar. On Wednesday, Kosovo's Serbs working for government institutions in Serbia and pensioners were set to receive salaries in northern Kosovo, where many in the community are dependent on the payments. Worries have been mounting for days over fears that cash was running short in the area, following the blocking of two deliveries of dinars after officials stopped cars transporting the currency at the border. Serbia's central bank said the shipments were set to pay salaries, pensions, social benefits and other payments to Serbs in Kosovo. On Wednesday, account holders were only able to withdraw limited amounts of dinars, according to an AFP reporter on the ground, usually in tranches of 5,000 to 10,000 ($46 to $92). "It is most likely the dinar will be abolished because that is Pristina's position. What are we left with?" one pensioner told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity. Others said they would be forced to cross the border and travel to Serbia to collect their salary in full. "Tomorrow, I plan to go to Raska and pick up my salary there," said Milica Ivanovic, a 25-year-old working at a Serbian government institution in northern Kosovo, referring to a town in southern Serbia. "I can afford it but there are others who can't," she added. - Rising tensions - Kosovo's roughly 100,000-member Serb community has held tight to the dinar since a brutal late-1990s war between Serbia and ethnic Albanian insurgents saw Serbian troops and government personnel withdraw from the breakaway province. "I don't think there is a Serbian family in Kosovo that is not affected by this decision," Aleksandar Rapajic, who works for the Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture in Kosovo's northern city of Mitrovica, told AFP. "The only effect this decision has is to make life miserable for the Serbian community and to make it difficult to send money from Serbia," he added. The move has seen already tense relations between Serbia and Kosovo inflamed. Earlier this month, Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti sparred over the new regulation during an emergency meeting at the UN Security Council in New York. Kosovo officials have introduced a three-month transitional period, allowing time to resolve issues. Despite criticism from several Western countries, Kosovo's government has continued to defend the regulation. "Money cannot come across the border in bags, as it cannot in any democratic state, but it can come through bank accounts, withdrawn in euros," said Kurti earlier this month. Serbia has never acknowledged Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence, with the rivals regularly locked in fierce disagreements over bureaucratic matters in the former breakaway province, such as a recent spat over licence plates. Kosovo adopted the euro as its currency in 2002, despite not being a formal member of the eurozone or the European Union. The currency regulation follows a tumultuous year in Kosovo that saw an armed standoff between Serb gunmen and police at a monastery near the Serbian border in September. At least four people were killed. str-am-ds/imm Kudos to those who stood up for Jim Hewitt Feb. 16 To the Editor: I wanted to commend those who spoke out at the hearing on the citys attempt to remove Jim Hewitt from the Planning Board. The citys actions were disgraceful and, as was clearly demonstrated, unwarranted. I could not believe the spectacle I witnessed at Mondays hearing. As Mr. Eggleton, Mr. Hewitts attorney, made clear, there was no criminal activity, yet Mr. Hewitt was treated as if he were a criminal. I remind the City Council and the Planning Board that the reason Mr. Hewitt attracted so much public support is that we felt at long last we had someone on the Planning Board who represented, and cared about, the interests of the people of Portsmouth, not just the developers. Judith Castle Portsmouth Jim Hewitt, left, the Portsmouth Planning Board member facing potential removal, is seen with his attorney, Jeremy D. Eggleton, during a hearing in City Council chambers Monday, Feb. 12, 2024. National Guard should serve NH people, not politics Feb. 16 To the Editor: Governor Sununu wants the NH Legislature to appropriate our tax dollars to deploy a token NH National Guard force to the Texas border. The NH legislature should refuse to pay for this. Texass actions are quite likely unconstitutional, the claim of invasion is not supported by either facts on the ground or a legal definition. (Organized groups of immigrants are not shooting at Texans.) And certainly the claims of an invasion across the Rio Grande poses NO THREAT to the citizens of New Hampshire. This is a blatant political action by a governor I used to support. Lets keep NH National Guard funding in NH, and use it for legitimate uses such as responding to local civil emergencies like the recent flooding. David Emery (formerly CPT, NHARNG) Dover NH lawmakers once again fail to pass common sense gun bills Feb. 16 To the Editor: As we mourn the loss of life to gun violence in Kansas City, we in New Hampshire mourn the inability of our legislators to pass common sent gun control bills that would keep us, our children and our entire community safer. We are all victims to a life threatening amendment to our constitution that is clearly badly in need of being amended. We need to find the will to do this. Diane Stradling Portsmouth Public should be able to access public records Feb. 19 To the Editor: No surprise that New Hampshire Municipal Association is taking the position to oppose House Bill 1069, which reinforces open government and our right to know (RTK). The bottom line is that government does our business and we pay them to keep records for posterity and ensure transparent government. The sticking point of lengthy RTK requests appears to lie with using electronic format to do our business and when we want to inspect it to connect the dots to decisions, government gets all defensive and reclusive, using the argument that everything had to be retrieved and reviewed for redactions. Well, government was warned well in advance that this would happen if they didnt get their house in order. The NHMA warned cities and towns about using emails for government business way back in 2017 and gave a good instruction/ direction on how to do it efficiently. This NHMA bulletin, titled Government Management of E-Mail-What's in your Municipalities In-Box offered: The managers and legal counsel for School Districts and Municipalities should know what is in their government operated e-mail systems. They should ensure policy, procedure, training and compliance are in place for proper record preservation and destruction. By ignoring this warning, cities and towns are paying the price with lengthy e-mail research and redactions for RTK requests. There is so much more in the NHMA bulletin and should be read by all. Here is the linkhttps://www.nhmunicipal.org/town-city-article/government-management-e-mail--whats-your-municipalities-box In Rochester, I asked for all RTK requests for a calendar year, waited well over 30 days for the info, and the number was 61 requests in writing. Hardly an overwhelming amount. Interestingly, a letter from legal counsel stated many if not all requests are made in person and some are made over the phone, something Mr. Thorpe of the Rochester Voice was told he couldn't do over the phone. That he had to show up in person. The Rochester RTK requests were broken down as follows: 61 total requests; 13 news/media requests asking for answers to questions; 35 from people requesting answers to questions. Six of those from one person repeatedly asking for the same information which I believe she has yet to get; 9 corporate/business requests mostly dealing with zoning that could be directed to already available web site info; 4 from attorneys requesting info for possible litigation cases. The Right to Know is a right enshrined in Article 8 of our State Constitution. We have to fight to protect it because once lost, a right is hard to get back. Call your record departments and tell them to get theirrecord keeping business in order and do it now! Rep. Cliff Newton Rochester Bad politics in Strafford County Feb. 15 To the Editor: It is all a ruse. Politics is not Republican and Democrat. Politics is about getting power, keeping that power, and yes, using that power. To those of us who refuse to be polarized, I offer the current brouhaha (over redistricting) with the Strafford County Commissioners as a shining example. I have not seen nor heard anything from them other than manipulation of the rules and a clear effort at power retention and protection vs. fairness. I offer the following three arguments/questions: Why is Strafford County different? All I hear from the commissioners is a lame defense surrounded by rules, laws (not real laws but the laws of politics) or whatever they are hiding behind. It is all garbage. Answer the simple question above please. If there are rules and such that support the continued difference they should be changed now, not later and certainly not in line with the US Census. Political garbage. What are you afraid of? Have the commissioners been in power so long they have forgotten the basic concept of a fair vote? Clearly the smaller towns are unrepresented in this configuration. Too bad if some current members live in the same district. Those rules apply all the way up the ladder. If me and my good buddy Dave and I live in the same district, we both cant be elected to the state senate. Lets fix that for anything else is just political manipulation. How can we hope to fix our national politics if the weeds first grow in our backyard? Term limits. Do the current commissioners believe that over the last decade(s) they have made the best, most widely studied, politically clean, decisions? Highly unlikely. Sounds more like an old boy network and a we have always done it this way bit of cloud cover and, might I dare say, maybe some accumulated rust in the process itself. I personally believe that all levels of elected office would benefit from fresh thinking and new, maybe younger minds. How can we ever hope to get younger people involved if they keep having to vote for their elders and not their peers. This should be fixed before the next election. There would be plenty of time if logic and fairness vs bureaucracy were applied. If they can, the current commissioners should work tirelessly to make it happen. Do not stall any longer. It looks like nothing more than self-serving manipulation and politics played out in the worst possible light. You owe it to your constituents to make it right ASAP! Finally, how much money and resources have been spent on this? Is anyone keeping track? Whatever the total, could it not have been better spent on helping the county or its people and not wasted on the machine itself? Timothy E. MacKay South Berwick, Maine (formerly of Dover, NH) This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Kudos to those who stood up for Portsmouth NH's Jim Hewitt: Letters The Kentucky General Assembly is poised to pass legislation that would restrict local governments from enacting local ordinances banning landlords from discriminating against people who use federal housing vouchers. The Senate on Tuesday voted 25 to 11 to pass House Bill 18, which has already passed the House. The bill was altered in a Senate committee to mirror Senate Bill 25, which also prohibited local governments from enacting local source of income bans. The House must concur with the changes before it is passed. But housing advocates question the legality of the bill and are concerned the changes will mean landlords can discriminate against anyone who receives funding from the federal government for housing. Im still kind of in disbelief that the legislature would pass something that removes legal protections from people, just because theyre using a voucher, said Art Crosby, executive director of Lexington Fair Housing, a nonprofit that deals with housing and housing discrimination. The previous versions of the bill targeted Section 8, now known as Housing Choice, which is a type of voucher lower-income people use to pay all or portions of their rent. The revised bill goes much further and says landlords cant be forced to take payment when the persons lawful source of income to pay rent includes funding from a federal housing assistance program. Crosby said the bill is now so broad it means any landlord may be able to turn away veterans, domestic violence survivors, the mentally ill and others who depend on other types of funding to find housing. The way I read the plain language of the proposed source of income bill, it means if you have a voucher then a landlord doesnt have to rent to you ever.. No matter the reason none of the current civil rights protections would apply to voucher holders, Crosby said. That means a Black renter, a person with disabilities or a disabled veteran who uses a voucher can be denied even if that landlord then rents to a white renter with a voucher, Crosby said. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted Feb. 15 to enact a local source of income ban. The local effort to do so drove landlords to approach Rep. Ryan Dotson, R-Winchester, and Sen. Stephen West, R-Paris, to sponsor bills to stop the measure at the state level. Louisville has had a source of income ban since 2020. Local debate on source of income bans Lexingtons ban on discrimination against people who use other means besides income from employment to pay rent is set to take effect March 1. It wont take effect if and when House Bill 18 passes. Lack of landlords willing to take federal housing vouchers and other types of federal housing payments was one of the reasons why Lexington decided to enact an ordinance. Multiple social service providers have said people are waiting for several months to exit shelters and homelessness because they cant find a landlord willing to take their housing voucher. Data from the Lexington-Fayette Housing Authority also shows the majority of voucher holders are Black. Yet, recent searches of available rental properties that take federal housing vouchers show those rental properties are largely in the citys minority neighborhoods. By banning discrimination against those that have vouchers, the city will be able to undo long-standing segregation in housing, backers of the ban on source of income allege. Landlords have said they dont want to be forced to participate in a government program. Housing Choice involves inspections and other regulations. Those regulations can translate to delays and loss of income, landlords have argued. Jackson Cooper, a housing lawyer with the Kentucky Equal Justice Center, said House Bill 18 is a step in the wrong direction as the state faces a housing crisis, particularly in rural areas where new rental housing is scarce. We have acknowledged there is a housing crisis, Cooper said. We have serious issues with housing and homeless. Louisville passed a source of income discrimination ban now nearly four years ago. Its not bothered landlords. They are still allowed to choose who they rent to. Statewide, renters make up more than 30% of Kentucky residents. In other areas, including Lexington and Louisville, renters make up nearly 50% of the population, according to U.S. Census data. Its moving in the wrong direction at a time when there are many Kentuckians who cant find housing, Cooper said. Moreover, Cooper has heard from renters who have vouchers who cant get their landlords to fix persistent problems. Protecting property rights or renters? During Tuesdays debate, several senators argued the House Bill 18 would protect landlords property rights. Left-wing liberals on city councils are dictating landlords should take below market rates, said Sen. Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, who represents portions of Fayette County. Sen. David Yates, D-Louisville, said thats not what bans on sources of income do. Those bans simply say landlords cant discriminate against someone who uses a voucher to pay rent. Yates said he is also a landlord. This is about discriminatory conduct, Yates said of source of income bans. Those who voted against the bill included several Republicans, including Sen. Amanda Mays Beldsoe, R-Lexington, Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Latonia, and Sen. Whitney Westerfield, R-Hopkinsville. Did you enjoy the annular eclipse that moved across Texas skies in October? Well get ready, cause you aint seen nothing yet. On April 8, San Antonio and the Hill Country will be treated to the celestial spectacle of a total eclipse. Thats when the moon completely covers the sun, plunging everyone in the path of totality into complete, if temporary, midday darkness. Those whove experienced both an annular and a total eclipse say the former doesnt hold a candle to the latter. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On a scale of 1 to 10, a total eclipse is a 10 while an annular eclipse is only a 2, said Dave Clark, who runs the online resource NationalEclipse.com and has seen them both. To help ready you for an experience of a lifetime, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the coming eclipse: What is a solar eclipse? A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, casting its shadow, or umbra, onto the Earths surface. To those who fall under this shadow, in whats known as the path of totality, the moon appears to cover the sun completely. Those outside this path experience a partial eclipse. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When will the eclipse occur? April 8. Depending on where you are in Texas, totality will begin some time between 1:27 p.m. and 1:46 p.m. ECLIPSE AND AWE: A look back at October's annular eclipse Whats the best place to view the eclipse? The path of totality will streak across Texas from the southwest to the northeast, with a number of cities and towns near the center of its path. These include, but are not limited to, Eagle Pass, Uvalde, Bandera, Kerrville, Comfort, Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Waco, Fort Worth and Dallas. Use our interactive map (https://www.expressnews.com/projects/2024/where-to-watch-april-8-eclipse/) to see if you're in the path of the eclipse. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What about San Antonio? The Alamo City will be on the eastern edge of the moons shadow, so anything roughly west of I-35 will experience a total eclipse. But it'll last only about two minutes, compared to four minutes or longer for cities closer to the paths center. Shane Pugh, 7, of Pugh stands on the leg of his mom, Robin Pugh, to look through a telescope during the annular eclipse celebrations at Louise Hays Park on Oct. 14, 2023, in Kerrville. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Whats it like to experience an eclipse? A total solar eclipse is said to be one of natures most spectacular shows. It starts with the moon, which appears as a black disc, slowly sliding across the face of the sun, obscuring more and more until it is blocked completely. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Right before that happens, however, theres whats known as the diamond ring effect, a sparkly burst as the last bright bits of sunlight stream between the mountains of the moon. But the big show doesn't start until the sun is completely blocked and, for several mesmerizing minutes, day becomes night, birds go to roost and temperatures drop noticeably. It's during this short period of time that the suns gauzy outer atmosphere, called the corona, is also visible. What if its cloudy that day? Weathers the wild card when it comes to eclipse viewing. During the annular eclipse in October, the skies over downtown were cloudy until shortly before the eclipse started, clearing up just in time to provide an unobstructed view. No one knows what the weather will be like on April 8 this year. According to the website timeanddate.com, since 2000, the skies above San Antonio have been cloudy 55% of the time on that day. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Some say a clouded-out eclipse is still a spectacle, however, just a different kind compared to a clear-sky one. From left back, Emily White, William White-Volk, Isabel Soria-White-Volk, front left, Nikolai Domingue, 11, and Erica Sonia, 9, look a the sun during La Fiesta del Sol: Celebration of the Sun Annular Eclipse Event at the Scobee Planetarium on the campus of San Antonio College on Oct. 14, 2023. Carlos Javier Sanchez/pixelrefle What about crowds? Expect plenty of traffic leading up to and following the eclipse. Officials in the Hill Country, which will be at the center of the eclipse path, expect as many as 1.8 million celestial sightseers, a crush certain to overwhelm the areas country roads. If youre thinking about taking a day trip to the area, come prepared. During the last total eclipse in the United States in 2017, there were reports of shortages of everything from gasoline to food to ATM cash. Traffic jams stretched as far as 17 miles. With the eclipse occurring on a Monday, expect a mass exodus immediately afterward as thousands rush to get home in time for school and work the next day. To be on the safe side, be sure to have sufficient supplies of necessities, including medications, to last at least two days. Lodging is expected to be in short supply, too. As of mid-February, about 65% of rooms in the Fredericksburg area were already booked, according to the city convention and visitors bureau. As the big day nears, however, occupancy rates are expected to approach 100%, with rooms going for as much as 10 times the usual rate, and many properties requiring multiple-night minimums. In other words, if you are planning to spend the night, dont wait too long to book a room. ECLIPSE AND AWE II: A look back at the 2017 partial solar eclipse La Fiesta del Sol: Celebration of the Sun Annular Eclipse Event at the Scobee Planetarium on the campus of San Antonio College on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Carlos Javier Sanchez/pixelrefle What do I need to know about safely viewing an eclipse? Looking directly at the sun is dangerous at any time; its just that more people do so during an eclipse. Ultraviolet and infrared rays produced by the sun can damage the eyes by literally burning the retina, the tissue at the back of the eyeball thats sensitive to light. Because the retina doesnt have pain receptors, however, this damage including blurred vision and temporary or permanent blindness can occur without people realizing it. Thats why its especially important that children not look directly at an eclipse. The only way to safely view an eclipse is with solar eclipse glasses that filter out these harmful rays. Look for glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard, printed on the glass frames. To avoid counterfeits, only buy from manufacturers certified as being reputable by the American Astronomical Society. Theres a list of manufacturers, and links, on the societys website at eclipse.aas.org/resources/solar-filters. The AAS recommends against buying glasses from online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay because, according to the website, in the run-up to the 2017 eclipse these sites sold products that had not been properly tested and shown to be safe. Glasses purchased prior to the Octobers annular eclipse should still be safe to use, provided theyre not torn otherwise damaged. And while theres plenty of time to buy online from an approved manufacturer, retail stores such as H-E-B and many gas station convenience stores should also be stocking glasses. Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales, shown at a 2023 meeting, aims to speed up the review of felony cases involving violent offenders to ensure that judges dont dismiss cases due to insufficient evidence or lower a suspects bail while they wait for a criminal charge to be filed. Kaylee Greenlee Beal/Contributor Bexar County prosecutors have trimmed a backlog of the felony criminal caseload by 11% since November, when they started working overtime to tackle thousands of pending cases. They have indicted, rejected or reached plea agreements in 589 cases involving suspects who have a history of violent crime, District Attorney Joe Gonzales told Bexar County Commissioners Court on Tuesday. Most of the suspects were facing charges of felon in possession of a firearm, felony assault or felony drug offenses. This initiative has been a huge success, Gonzales said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In early November, county commissioners gave the district attorney the OK to use nearly $300,000 that had been budgeted for unfilled positions to pay prosecutors to voluntarily staff a High Risk Intake Team on evenings and weekends. The issue of violent offenders came into sharp focus in late summer, when a string of suspects with criminal records shot and injured six police officers. One of the suspects was out on bail, while another was on parole. Gonzales aims to speed up the review of felony cases involving violent offenders to ensure that judges dont dismiss cases due to insufficient evidence or lower a suspects bail while they wait for a criminal charge to be filed. Forty-five prosecutors have volunteered for the intake team. As of last week, about $38,100 had been spent on overtime pay. Gonzales told the five-member Commissioners Court that as of Feb. 15, the district attorneys office had a backlog of 5,647 felony cases, which is down 11% from the 6,330 backlogged cases at the time the court approved the intake team. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All of this work has been done even though we are still see staffing shortages, Gonzales said. There are currently 14 open prosecutor positions. The district attorney did not escape questioning Tuesday from Precinct 3 County Commissioner Grant Moody about the influence the Wren Collective, or any third-party group, has had over any of the resolved backlogged cases. The Wren Collective is an Austin-based criminal justice reform group that has provided consulting services to Gonzales and his top deputy since at least 2019. Part of the groups goal is to reduce incarceration rates. Charging decisions, specifically, are made by our office and our intake division, and made by our chiefs or myself and no one outside this office, Gonzales told Moody. Well, I hope thats the case, Moody said, adding that communications between the Wren Collective and the DA that have recently come to light have affected the publics perception of how the office decides to prosecute. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If the public believes that decisions are being made outside of Bexar County, then thats a problem, Moody said. Thats a problem for our county, thats a problem for your office. And we need to avoid the appearance of impropriety. Gonzales maintained that everything he and his staff has done has been in accordance with the law. Kahllid Al-Alim poses for a portrait in June. Al-Alim is running for a Los Angeles school board seat and is under fire for some of his past social media actions. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) Los Angeles school board front-runner Kahllid Al-Alim who is endorsed by the influential teachers union is under fire for social media activity that has prompted accusations that he agreed with antisemitic content, glamorized guns and celebrated pornographic images. A post on X (formerly Twitter) that drew particular criticism was Al-Alim's praise of an antisemitic publication from the Nation of Islam organization titled: "The Secret Relationship Between Blacks and Jews: How Jews gained control of the Black American economy." The book accuses Jews of stealing prosperity from Black people their "40 acres and a mule" and of "collaborating with and even financing such racial terrorists as the Ku Klux Klan," according to a blurb about the book on the Nation of Islam online store. In an October 2022 post, Al-Alim running for a seat that represents much of south and southwest Los Angeles said the book should be mandatory reading in L.A. schools: "We not Burning or Banning Our Future! We Not Playing," he tweeted. In a statement Tuesday, Al-Alim, 56, appeared to acknowledge all or most of the social media posts and likes, for which he expressed regret. He did not say they were from fake accounts or that his account was hacked. "I have spent my life fighting against antisemitism, anti-Arab hate, Islamophobia, and all forms of oppression," Al-Alim said. "I have spent my life fighting for the equality of all people. There is a very long history of Jewish and Black people backing each other and working in solidarity for justice. I want to continue that important work." He also appeared to acknowledge the pornographic and gun-related likes, adding: "I also apologize for my likes on social media of graphic content. It was inappropriate. I will never do that again." Al-Alim is among seven candidates running to replace George McKenna, who is retiring from the Board of Education. District 1 includes the core of historically Black Los Angeles and the largest concentration of Black students and all the candidates are Black. The district also includes a significant number of white voters and Jewish voters; a majority of students attending schools in the district are Latino. The emergence of Al-Alim's social media activity threatens to derail the campaign of a parent and longtime community activist who has gained endorsements from the influential United Teachers Los Angeles and the L.A. County Federation of Labor. Read more: Your guide to the LAUSD District 1 school board primary election In figures reported through Wednesday, the teachers union had spent more than $650,000 for an independent campaign in support of Al-Alim and is organizing field workers in his behalf. Al-Alim's own campaign had raised $24,302 as of the last reporting period. The next largest independent funding effort is $280,515 on behalf of Didi Watts, by a Sacramento-based political action committee called Kids First. The actual contributors to this campaign are shielded from immediate disclosure because they did not contribute directly to the campaign on Watts' behalf. One of the early online amplifiers of Al-Alim's social media activity has been political operative Mike Trujillo, who said he is working on behalf of Watts as well as candidates in the three other board races. But the criticism is not just from those with political motivations to oppose Al-Alim in the District 1 contest. United Teachers Los Angeles on Tuesday responded sharply to his actions online. Kahllid Al-Alim's reported social media activities are offensive and unacceptable," the union stated. "They are inconsistent with what we have seen of Kahllid as a decades-long organizer for education justice. Elected leaders should exemplify professionalism and set a positive example for those they represent. His reported social media conduct falls short of these fundamental ideals." The union left open the possibility of withdrawing its endorsement: "We have contacted Kahllid Al-Alim to make clear our position on both the content and nature of his posts. We have demanded a public response from him today. UTLA is considering our next steps. UTLA sent its statement to The Times at 12:32 p.m. Al-Alim's sweeping apology arrived eight minutes later. As of Wednesday afternoon, teachers union leaders were still discussing whether to maintain or withdraw the endorsement as well as how to go about rescinding support should leaders favor doing so. The UTLA endorsement process is typically complex, involving several steps and many individuals and groups. The County Fed had not responded as of Wednesday afternoon about whether it would withdraw its endorsement. But outside political pressure has begun to materialize, including from Assembly Democratic Caucus Chair Rick Chavez Zbur. As a gay man Ive experienced discrimination firsthand and understand the ugliness of hate in our society all too well," said Zbur. "This hate has no place in California and definitely not in our public schools. Kahllid Al-Alims antisemitic comments are sickening and reflect the opposite of the welcoming, inclusive learning environment we ought to have at LAUSD. Thats why I call on Mr. Al-Alim to withdraw from the race for LAUSD Board." In an ad in the Feb. 16 edition of the locally published Jewish Journal, the group Democrats for Israel Los Angeles designated Al-Alim as a candidate to oppose, a negative assessment that was applied to one other candidate in a long list of endorsements. Within the teachers union, the Educators Caucus for Israel, which goes by the handle @JewTLA, also has come out strongly against Al-Alim, as in this reference to the post that Al-Alim renounced on Tuesday: "Heres just a taste of the antisemitic Jew-hating crud @KahllidA posts on his personal account wacky conspiracy theories about Jews running the world and ruining it." Aside from his general apology, Al-Alim specifically retracted his boosting of the Nation of Islam book. "I want to apologize for my posts about the Farrakhan book," said Al-Alim, referring to that group's leader, Louis Farrakhan. "I was wrong. I have connected with educators and community members and have since learned about the issues. I fully rescind that post. It has no place in our schools." By early this week, Al-Alim's personal account on X had gone private, then it was deleted entirely. Critics also highlighted an image of a "like" they say they found on Al-Alim's campaign account that was posted shortly after the Oct. 7 start of the Israel-Hamas war. The tweet portrayed the Hamas attack on Israel as Palestinians rising up against occupation, apartheid and ethnic cleansing. It cannot be found at this time on that account. The original post was from J-Town Action & Solidarity, self-described as a "grassroots collective dedicated to revolutionary organizing & building community power in Little Tokyo." The image of Al-Alim's like was captured by multiple critics before it was apparently recently deleted. Except for the one example he cited, Al-Alim was not specific about any other post that the critics found. According to an internationally accepted definition, it is not necessarily antisemitic to express support for Palestinians or criticism of Israel or Zionism, the movement to establish and sustain a Jewish homeland in Israel. However, such views can cross the line into antisemitism. The unrelated, sexually oriented likes include at least one explicit image of sex and many suggestive photos. In one, a woman in a see-through halter top is holding a high-powered gun. The images began to surface over the weekend supplied by political opponents as well as Jewish critics and union members concerned about the union's support of Al-Alim. Al-Alim has a long history as a community activist, including as a founding member of Reclaim Our Schools L.A., a coalition of parents, students, educators, labor and community organizations that is closely allied with the L.A. teachers union. He also was a longtime member of the school district's task force on African American achievement and Advanced Placement and a leader on the Hyde Park Neighborhood Council. Currently a janitorial worker for the City of Los Angeles, Al-Alim also worked as an Army medic for 16 years. In a recent campaign forum for District 1, Al-Alim was the candidate who spoke most critically of the performance of Supt. Alberto Carvalho, saying the district leader merited a grade of F for his work to date. 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. The state Senate is set to continue discussing a bill Wednesday that would ban people under the age of 16 in Florida from using social media. Some state lawmakers are now proposing changes to the bill. One senator filed an amendment Tuesday that would require social media platforms to offer anonymous age-verification methods or what they call standard age-verification methods. If both methods are offered, potential users would be able to choose the method when they sign up for platforms like TikTok or Facebook. Read: Florida Senators back revised social media bill The Florida Senate has revamped a proposal aimed at keeping children off social media. After the proposed changes, the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee approved the bill, which is a priority of House Speaker Paul Renner. Watch: Daughter claims elderly mom taken for $600,000 in romance scam The bill would prevent anyone under 16 from creating social media accounts and would require social media platforms to terminate existing accounts that are reasonably known by the platforms to be held by minors. The House overwhelmingly passed the bill last month. Watch: Social media ban bill flies past another hurdle as its legality is questioned Supporters of the bill describe social media as harmful to childrens mental health. Opponents of the bill feel the legislation may not be constitutional. See more in the video above. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) Two Tennessee lawmakers want to see those who conceal their identities while committing crimes receive harsher penalties. Democratic Rep. Torrey Harris (D-Memphis) and Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) have filed a bill that would create a sentencing enhancement factor for those who commit crimes while covering their face or otherwise conceal their identities. Under current state law, enhancement factors are things allowed to be taken into consideration when judges or juries are in the sentencing phase of the judicial process. These factors can lengthen criminals prison sentences. Some enhancement factors include whether or not the defendant was the leader of two or more co-criminals, if the victim of the crime was particularly vulnerable due to their age or a physical or mental disability, if the defendant failed to comply with conditional release instructions and more. Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom There are almost 30 different enhancement factors currently written into law. Harriss bill would add another that would read: The defendant was wearing a mask or other device that concealed the defendants identity during the commission of the offense; The reason for the bill, Harris told News 2, was to ensure that criminals who try to conceal their identity through face coverings or gloves know that, when theyre caught, they will be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Simply put, we have a lot of crimes happening across the state, and it makes it a lot harder when the individual has on a face covering for us to be able to identify who that individual is, he said. Whether the crime is as simple as robbery or as heinous as murder, Harris said people who conceal who they are when they commit those offenses take away valuable resources from local law enforcement agencies. 2 extremist groups behind Nashville Nazi march, ADL says We as a state, as a community, as law enforcement have to work even harder to try to use resources that we have within our state to be able to find out who it is who committed this crime, he told News 2. Because crime is something that affects all areas of Tennessee, urban and rural alike, Harris said he hopes this bill will serve as a deterrent for those who may commit crimes. We just want to make sure that we have just one more tool that we can use in our toolbox that we can use to hold people accountable, he said. According to Harris, the bill could have even been useful during the events over the weekend that saw a group of neo-Nazis marching down Broadway in downtown Nashville. If any one of the marchers hurt anyone or any property, this bill would have applied to them, as they all wore face coverings that concealed their full identities. The law would not apply to specific individuals wearing masks or other face coverings for non-criminal purposes, Harris stressed. It would only apply to people who have committed a crime while wearing any face covering or other item to disguise their identity. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Harris said Memphis law enforcement is in full support, as are many community partners. The small negative feedback hes received has mostly been from a concern that the law would negatively impact populations of color or those in poverty more than others. Its not to target any individual, Harris stressed to those concerned about the bill. What it is, is to make sure individuals who commit a crime and, to them, think theyre going to get away with it, that we are watching; were paying attention. This will be a deterrent, for one, and it will make sure that individuals who are caught used resources that we couldve used to protect other individuals, to watch out for other situations thats going on. If passed, the law would take effect July 1. It was set for discussion on Tuesday, Feb. 20, in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, but action was deferred for one week, to Feb. 27. Hundreds of bills will be up for debate during the 113th General Assembly. Tennessee lawmakers shared their thoughts on some of the major issues up for discussion at this years legislative session. You can also find daily coverage from the session here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Should data scientists be in the business of fingering Americans for crimes they could commit, someday? Last month, a group of federal lawmakers asked the Department of Justice to stop funding such programsat least until safeguards can be built in. It's just the latest battle over a controversial field of law enforcement that seeks to peer into the future to fight crime. "We write to urge you to halt all Department of Justice (DOJ) grants for predictive policing systems until the DOJ can ensure that grant recipients will not use such systems in ways that have a discriminatory impact," reads a January letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland from U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (DOre.) and Rep. Yvette Clarke (DN.Y.), joined by Senators Jeff Merkley (DOre.), Alex Padilla, (DCalif.), Peter Welch (DVt.), John Fetterman, (DPenn.), and Ed Markey (DMass.). "Mounting evidence indicates that predictive policing technologies do not reduce crime. Instead, they worsen the unequal treatment of Americans of color by law enforcement." The letter emphasizes worries about racial discrimination, but it also raises concerns about accuracy and civil liberties that, since day one, have dogged schemes to address crimes that haven't yet occurred. Fingering Criminals-To-Be Criminal justice theorists have long dreamed of stopping crimes before they happen. Crimes prevented mean no victims, costs, or perpetrators to punish. That's led to proposals for welfare and education programs intended to deter kids from becoming predators. It's also inspired "predictive policing" efforts that assume crunching numbers can tell you who is prone to prey on others. It's an intriguing idea, if you ignore the dangers of targeting people for what they might do in the future. "For years, businesses have used data analysis to anticipate market conditions or industry trends and drive sales strategies," Beth Pearsall wrote in the Department of Justice's NIJ Journal in 2010. "Police can use a similar data analysis to help make their work more efficient. The idea is being called 'predictive policing,' and some in the field believe it has the potential to transform law enforcement by enabling police to anticipate and prevent crime instead of simply responding to it." Interesting. But marketers targeting neighborhoods for home warranty pitches only annoy people when they're wrong; policing efforts have much higher stakes when they're flawed or malicious. "The accuracy of predictive policing programs depends on the accuracy of the information they are fed," Reason's Ronald Bailey noted in 2012. "We should always keep in mind that any new technology that helps the police to better protect citizens can also be used to better oppress them." Predictive Policing in (Bad) Action People worried about the dangers of predictive policing often reference the 2002 movie Minority Report, in which a science-fiction take on the practice is abused to implicate innocent people. Recent years, though, have delivered real-life cautionary tales about misusing data science to torment people for crimes they haven't committed. "First the Sheriff's Office generates lists of people it considers likely to break the law, based on arrest histories, unspecified intelligence and arbitrary decisions by police analysts," the Tampa Bay Times reported in 2020 of Pasco County, Florida's predictive policing program. "Then it sends deputies to find and interrogate anyone whose name appears, often without probable cause, a search warrant or evidence of a specific crime." In practice, as a former deputy described the program's treatment of those it targeted: "Make their lives miserable until they move or sue." Sue they did, with many plaintiffs represented by the Institute for Justice. Last year, with legal costs mounting, the sheriff's office claimed in court documents that it discontinued predictive policing efforts. Garbage In, Garbage Out A big problem with predictive policing is that it relies heavily on honesty and dispassion in people who create algorithms and enter data. As recent arguments over biases in internet search results and artificial intelligence reveal, the results that come out of a data-driven system are only as good as what goes in. "One foundational problem with data-driven policing is that it treats information as neutral, ignoring how it can reflect over-policing and historical redlining," the Brennan Center for Justice's Angel Diaz wrote in 2021. He added that tech vendors dealing with the NYPD's predictive policing program "proposed relying on data such as educational attainment, the availability of public transportation, and the number of health facilities and liquor licenses in a given neighborhood to predict areas of the city where crime was likely to occur." Are those real predictors of criminal activity? Maybe. Or maybe they're excuses for making people's lives miserable until they move or sue, as happened in Pasco County. Forecasts Fueled by the Feds As with so many big ideas with scary potential, impetus for development and implementation comes from government funding and encouragement. "The National Institute of Justice, the DOJ's research, development and evaluation arm, regularly provides seed money for grants and pilot projects to test out ideas like predictive policing," American University law professor Andrew Guthrie Ferguson commented earlier this month. "It was a National Institute of Justice grant that funded the first predictive policing conference in 2009 that launched the idea that past crime data could be run through an algorithm to predict future criminal risk." Of course, it's not bad to seek innovation and to look for new tools that could make the public safer. But hopefully, those funding such research want it to make the world a better place, not worse. And when lawmakers asked the Justice Department in 2022 for some documentation on predictive policing, officials admitted they didn't really know how money was being spent, let alone its impact. "It remains an unanswered [question], for example, to what degree such tools are, or ever have ever been, assessed for compliance with civil rights law," Gizmodo's Dell Cameron wrote at the time. Hence the letter from Wyden and company. After years of haphazard funding and development, warnings from civil libertarians, and abuses by police, some lawmakers want the federal government to stop funding predictive policing efforts until due diligence is done and safeguards are in place. You have to wonder if predictive policing programs predicted the field's own current troubles. The post Lawmakers Want Pause on Federal Funds for Predictive Policing appeared first on Reason.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. The woman accused of posting on social media that her 5-year-old daughter had waxed nude women at her business made her first appearance in court Wednesday. Jasmine Moss is being charged with Misdemeanor Child Abuse and Child Neglect after she claimed her daughter waxed 24 women and earned over $700, reports state. Mom accused of letting child wax nude women arrested, charged with neglect WREG talked to her lawyer, Blake Ballin, who says this is a unique case. This is sort of an unusual way to charge this, Ballin said. Child abuse and neglect generally require some definite harm to a child. It usually requires injury or something like that. So, weve got our work cut out for us, but we are looking forward to representing her. The lawyer says that the next step is to prove to the court that she is a mother who was trying to do the right thing. I have not seen the actual posts. I assume they have been taken down. Its something that the state will have to turn over to us. We will see if what they can prove meets the definition of the law they charged her with. I think thats the big question here, Ballin said. Ballin tells us that despite making several headlines, Mosss state of mind is normal for anyone whose liberty is in jeopardy. We also asked about the whereabouts of her daughter. Thats not something I can comment on at this time, Ballin said. They so greedy: Thieves caught on camera loading stolen items into cars Moss told WREG that she is not ready to speak at this time. She is expected to appear back in court on March 20. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A judge has yet to decide whether statements made during a police interrogation of Chad Doerman, the man accused of fatally shooting his three young sons, should be used as evidence at trial. Doerman's lawyers have asked Clermont County Common Pleas Judge Richard Ferenc to throw out those statements, saying detectives continued to question 32-year-old Doerman for hours even after he twice requested a lawyer. It is unclear when Ferenc will make a decision, but during a hearing on Wednesday, the judge said he will take time to consider the parties' legal arguments before issuing a ruling. Assistant Clermont County Prosecutor Lara Baron-Allen said Doerman knowingly waived his right to an attorney and answered investigators questions on his own, adding that he made ambiguous statements about speaking to a lawyer. Chad Doerman appeared in Clermont County Common Pleas Court Monday on charges that he murdered his three sons in June. Baron-Allen said Doerman only muddied the waters further when detectives tried to clarify whether he was asking for an attorney. Perhaps the most consequential testimony from Wednesday's hearing came from the lead detective in Doerman's interview at the Clermont County Sheriff's Office, which happened in the hours following the June 15 shootings. Detective Michael Ross said Doerman was advised of and understood his Miranda rights before answering questions. However, Ross admitted he did not read those rights word for word, neglecting to say Doerman had the right to have a lawyer present for questioning. Ross said it wasn't until after Doerman started answering questions that he first said something about speaking with an attorney. In response to clarifying questions from police about whether Doerman had a lawyer, Ross said that Doerman wanted to speak with his father and a woman he claimed was in the CIA, neither of whom are licensed attorneys, according to Ross. During the roughly 2-hour interview, Doerman at times drifted off and had difficulty answering questions about his involvement in his sons' killings, Ross said, though he had no problems answering questions unrelated to the shootings. More: Doerman case: 41 motions filed in case of father accused of killing his 3 sons Throughout his questioning by police, Ross said, Doerman denied shooting his sons and said he didnt know why he was being detained at the sheriff's office. Doerman also claimed his wife poisoned him and made cryptic statements seemingly related to his sons' deaths. "He had made a comment that 'the Bible says you kill your firstborn, you kill your secondborn, you kill your thirdborn, but first you're supposed to kill your wife. I didn't kill my wife,'" Ross said. It wasn't until the end of the interview that Doerman allegedly confessed to his sons' killings, according to the detective's testimony. Prosecutors say Doerman lined up the boys, ages 3, 4 and 7, at their home and executed them with a rifle as part of a plan he had been thinking about for months. According to investigators, one of the boys tried to flee into a field, but Doerman "hunted" him down, brought him back to the house in Monroe Township, Ohio, and killed him. A Clermont County Sheriff's deputy testified Wednesday that first responders were still attempting life-saving measures on one of the boys when he arrived at the Laurel Lindale Road home. Doerman has remained incarcerated at the Clermont County Jail since being arrested at his house last summer. He is scheduled to go to trial in July, though it is common for murder trials to be delayed, and faces the death penalty if convicted. The funeral service for Clayton, Hunter, and Chase Doerman is taking place today at First Baptist Church in Batavia. They were killed at their home in Monroe Township on June 15. Their father, Chad Doerman has been charged. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Chad Doerman, father accused of killing sons, wants statements tossed Police say a woman accused of killing another woman with her car in LeClaire had a blood alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit. Molly Vance, 36, appeared with her attorney Tuesday in Scott County Court for her preliminary hearing. Shes charged with vehicular homicide and OWI. On Saturday after the crash, Vance had a .182 blood-alcohol level LeClaire Police Investigator Corey Hasley testified. Police allege she hit Leslie Preisser, 44, of Bettendorf, with an SUV at Riverview Roadhouse in LeClaire. Molly Vance (Scott County Jail) Under Iowa law, according to the Iowa DOT, it is unlawful to drive with an alcohol concentration of .08 or more. Hasley testified that officers at the scene said Vance was unable to maintain her balance that night after Preisser was found dead pinned between the railing and the bar. Security video shows a Cadillac Escalade strike a woman victim, he said. Leslie Preisser (contributed photos) Hasley said autopsy results are not available yet. A judge found probable cause for the case to continue March 21 in Scott County Court. Both families waited, along with other families and those appearing in court, in the hallway, where after voices were raised a deputy separated the two families. Vance was released earlier on bond. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. Thirty years ago, Herbert Tuggle was recognized as the keeper of African American history in Macon when city and county officials declared Feb. 19 as Herbert Tuggle Day. When Telegraph reporter Deb Evans asked Tuggle in 1998 how he observed the proclaimed day in his honor, his humble response was, I was at the library saying, Reference. May I help you please? As part of its ongoing centennial celebration, the Washington Memorial Library on Wednesday hosted a ceremony to honor Tuggles contributions to African American literature and representation in Macon by dedicating its African American book collection to him. This collection is much more than a mere assemblage of books. It represents decades of meticulous work on behalf of Mr. Tuggle, said Dr. Shaundra Walker, president of the Middle Georgia Regional Library Board of Trustees. As we continue to celebrate the history of our city, the Herbert Tuggle African American Collections adds a valuable contribution to our communitys story. Black History Month is swiftly drawing to a close, but its celebration will never end, especially at the library where Tuggles integral contributions will infinitely reside. After devoting nearly 40 years of his life to the library, Tuggle retired in 1996 as Middle Georgia Regional Librarys first African American head of reference. He died in 2014, but his contributions to preserve Macons Black history lives on in every library guest who chooses to browse the collection. If you missed it, you can see the dedication ceremony here. A plaque honoring The keeper of African American history in Macon. History of Tuggles contributions In 1959, he worked as the sole librarian at the Amelia Hutchins Library, Macons first library for Blacks. There, he began cultivating a specialized research collection known as the Afro American Collection when he realized the community needed more awareness of important library resources and knowledge related to Black history. I saw a terrible need to honor our unsung heroes, Tuggle told The Telegraph in 1998. During an era that did not accurately explore or depict Macons Black history, Tuggle wanted to elevate and expand peoples knowledge, said Muriel Jackson, Washington Memorial Librarys head of the Genealogical and Historical Room. Tuggle wanted to introduce the children to both general literature and African American literature, she added. When the Amelia Hutchins Library closed during the countys time of racial integration, it merged with the Washington Memorial Library. Tuggle brought his rare collection with him when he entered those new doors. Psychologist and longtime friend Maureen Walker described Tuggle as a well-respected role model back then. It was amazing to me, Walker said. One of the ironies we would talk about was how growing up as a kid, he would have never been allowed into Washington Library and then to become a reference librarian there. In 1990, the collection contained more than 9,000 volumes of magazines, photos, biographies, church bulletins and other vertical files, according to The Telegraph archives. Jackson said Tuggle was her first boss at the library, where she got to witness his impeccable customer service and ultimate influence on the community for herself. Friends of the library gather during the ceremony honoring Herbert Tuggle. It was wonderful because we had this [collection] before it became fashionable, Jackson said. A lot of places had small African American collections, but now we have whole libraries dedicated to African American history. But he wasnt just a helpful information source for Blacks, Jackson said. He was everybodys head of reference librarian. He wasnt just for the African American community. We need to get that straight, she said. He would come in and save books for people because he knew what their interests were. After staff unveiled a black and gold plaque that proudly reads Herbert Tuggle Collection, Tuggles family and community leaders highlighted his strong work ethic and kind personality. He was a great catalyst for building careers and library science and teaching us how to be librarians, said Thomas Jones, former director of Middle Georgia Regional Libraries. He was one who gave it his all. ... He taught all of us that if a person comes into the Washington Library, they are to leave with the information they [sought]. The city of Elmendorf issued a boil water notice Wednesday as crews make repairs to the main water line. Getty Images Repairs on Elmendorfs main water line spurred the city to issue a boil water notice Wednesday. According to the citys social media, customers in La Gloria, Old Corpus Christi, CR 163 and south of Loop 1604 should boil their water before using it for consumption. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its the second boil water notice in a week. The first one, issued Feb. 15, was tied to a break in the main water line. Following the repairs, the notice was lifted on Feb. 17. Todays boil water notice was issued because of continued repairs on the main water line. A local man will receive $100,000 in a settlement with Livingston County Community Mental Health after he allegedly suffered a significant delay in receiving services. LIVINGSTON COUNTY A local man will receive $100,000 in a settlement with Livingston County Community Mental Health after he allegedly suffered from a significant delay in receiving services. "CB," a 24-year-old with severe disabilities, is a Medicaid beneficiary. In his lawsuit against LCCMH, he alleges he suffered harm after the organization delayed providing medically necessary Medicaid services for roughly two years. An administrative judge in July 2022 issued a written decision in CB's favor, ordering LCCMH to provide the services. When they weren't provided within 72 hours, CB filed an action in court to (1) enforce the judge's decision and (2) obtain monetary damages to compensate for harm suffered. LCCMH complied with the order, but not before Livingston County's 44th Circuit Court dismissed the case a decision CB appealed. Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our local coverage The Michigan Court of Appeals issued a published decision in December 2023, finding CB could be eligible for monetary compensation, and remanded the case to the 44th Circuit Court. Both parties then reached a settlement. Medicaid beneficiaries must be able to enforce fair hearing decisions where medically necessary services are at stake, said Nick Gable, senior attorney at Disability Rights Michigan. The Court of Appeals decision and this settlement are important steps toward ensuring accountability and making sure the system works. The Daily left messages with LCCMH and did not immediately receive a response. Contact reporter Evan Sasiela at esasiela@livingstondaily.com. Follow him on Twitter @SalsaEvan. This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Livingston County Community Mental Health to pay $100K in settlement Digital depiction of UFO lights in the sky. Photo provided/David Wall/Getty Images Texas has the fourth-highest number of unidentified flying object reports in the country, according to the National UFO Reporting Center, a nonprofit organization based in Washington that has recorded unusual phenomena since 1974. Texas, which has more than 6,000 reports, is beat out by California at around 16,000 reports, Florida and Washington. Within Texas, Harris County has the highest number of recorded sightings, according to a map released by Axios on Feb. 8 based on National UFO Reporting Center data. The map produced by Axios, which highlights areas with the highest rates of UFO reports, found that Jeff Davis, Brewster and McMullen County had some of the highest rates of sightings in the state per 100,000 residents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Axios found that Lincoln County, Nevada, had the highest rate of sightings in the country at more than 820 per 100,000 residents. It may not be too shocking to learn that Lincoln County is home to Area 51. The Axios report said the map tracks with dark sky locations, probably because it's easier to catch glimpses of details in the night sky when its dark. A man scours the night for UFO activity. Niall Carson - PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images One report from Texas in 2023 describes a large black oval that gave off a dark orange light. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I lost all sight of the object as if it just disappeared," the report read. Anyone interested in submitting a sighting can do so on the National UFO Reporting Center's website. Before 1994, the website took in reports through the phone or mail. Texas is no stranger to reported UFO sightings. The most famous case goes back to 2005 when a Houston couple, Clayton and Donna Lee, said they had been abducted by aliens multiple times. A 2023 UFO report was tied to large circular and oval-shaped holes in a cloud formation. In that case, the sighting turned out to be fallstreak holes or hole punch clouds gaps that appear in clouds when cold, and tiny water droplets flash freeze and fall. Sam Myers Jr. has launched Place Public Affairs. He most recently was managing director at Rational 360 and previously worked in the White House for President Biden and former Presidents Obama and Clinton. I have built a substantial advocacy network all across the U.S. through my work for clients at some of the most prestigious communications agencies in the U.S., multiple White Houses, and 25 years of presidential campaigns, Myers wrote in a LinkedIn post. Im thrilled to now mobilize it through Place Public Affairs to align public policies and public sentiment closer to our clients business interests. BGR Group announced a new strategic partnership with the Nashville-based public affairs firm BHA Strategy, led by BHAs Blake Harris, former chief of staff to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R). Amanda Perl will be the next CEO of the American Society of Human Genetics. She was most recently executive director of the American Thyroid Association. Connor Murphy is joining Schagrin Associates as deputy government affairs director. He was most recently legislative director for former Rep. Bill Johnson (R-Ohio) and previously worked for Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). Joe Boddicker has joined Alston & Bird as counsel in the firms federal and international tax group. He was a tax counsel for the Senate Finance Committee and a law clerk for the U.S. Tax Court. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Lockport Township High School District 205 Board appointed Lance Thies to the board Tuesday, and hired Jacqueline Johnson, who will become the first Black woman to be principal of East Campus. Thies was sworn in to fill the vacancy following Martin Boersmas resignation in December. Thies, the director of community and economic development for Lockport, was one of eight candidates for the District 205 Board in the April 2023 election. Boersma was elected in April, but resigned in December. He was backed by We The Parents Illinois, a group that endorsed candidates for several school and library boards. Sixteen people applied for the vacancy, Superintendent Robert McBride said. The board interviewed five candidates in January, he said, and ultimately selected Thies to serve through 2025. I want to be a team player. I want to be a board member who is supportive of our staff, supportive of our administration, supportive of our taxpayers and ask good questions that our community might want to know, Thies said. Board President Ana Lopez-Caneva said Thies background in architecture and planning will benefit the board as it navigates the March referendum to renovate Central Campus. His expertise in architecture will help us as we move forward with Central Campus improvements. His community involvement will also help keep our board connected to our stakeholders, Lopez-Caneva said. East Campus principal Johnson will be principal of East Campus, where district sophomores, juniors and seniors attend, effective July 1. Principal John Greenan will replace assistant superintendent for personnel Anthony Cundari, who will retire in June, McBride said. Johnson has been the director of equity and articulation at High School District 218 since August 2020. She worked in District 218 for nearly 20 years as an English teacher, dean and director, according to the districts website. McBride said Johnsons selection included two rounds of interviews, which included panels with administrators, staff members, parents and students. Im just really excited to be here in Lockport, Johnson said. McBride said Johnson will bring expertise in teaching and learning, building and district leadership, equity and diversity in public high schools and communication with middle schools. Central Campus repairs The board heard from representatives from Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc., who completed an inspection of Central Campus ceilings following a November ceiling collapse in Room 310. When that section of Central Campus, where district freshmen attend, was built in 1929, the ceiling construction style was to nail plaster to wood frames, said Kevin Kalata of the firm. The collapse was the result of nails becoming loose over time because of fluctuations in wood moisture and past roof leakage, Kalata said. Inspectors found 14 different ceiling structures throughout the building, Kalata said. Ceilings at the northwest corner of the school had similar ceiling structures to classroom 310 and were showing early signs of failure, he said. The classrooms have a decorative ceiling that blocks the 1929 ceiling structure from view, Kalata said, so teachers, staff and students had no way of seeing potential problems. It wasnt just bluntly visible or obvious that something was going on, Kalata said. The board approved a bid for $479,000 from CCC Holdings, Inc. for the demolition of ceilings in 17 classrooms and three hallways, McBride said. Thies said he was pleased the inspection did not find significant deficiencies. He said he looks forward to using his expertise as an architectural designer as the board navigates the March referendum. The referendum and what to do with Central, whether the referendum passes or not, is of interest to me. I want to be a part of that solution whether that solution may be, Thies said. akukulka@chicagotribune.com Jonathan Tisch The Resnick-Wynn Family Business Conference will once again feature some heavy hitters. This year's keynote speaker: Jonathan Tisch, co-chairman of the board of the Loews Corp. and executive chairman of its subsidiary Loews Hotels & Co., and a co-owner of the New York Giants. He's a third-generation leader of a family business that went public, first listed in 1959 (NYSE: L). The event will be held on Feb. 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Florida Gulf Coast University's Cohen Student Union. Tickets are still on sale, but there is only a handful left. This years theme is Leading Family Businesses Through Critical Crossroads. Here's more to know about the upcoming conference: Who's behind the event? It was founded in 2022 by Naples transplants Billie and John Resnick and Michael Wynn, a Naples native and long-time business owner. The Wynn family has owned businesses in Southwest Florida since the 1930s. Michael Wynn is the chairman and president of Sunshine Ace Hardware, founded by his grandfather in 1958. He also serves as chairman of FGCU's board of trustees. Years ago, John Resnick organized similar events at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, a private Ivy League research university. What's the goal? The event is focused on "helping family businesses prosper for generations." "They are the economic engine of our community," said John Resnick, founder of The Resnick Group. Attendees can learn best practices for survival from the speakers and each other. "It's really a place for them to network and learn from each other," Resnick said. "I think that's one of the most positive aspects." John Resnick The speakers are asked to "pull back the curtains" on their experiences, good and bad, and to share how they've overcome struggles and challenges, Wynn said. "They are getting handouts and hearing real life experiences, and in some cases, step-by-step instructions that they can go back and execute on in their businesses," he said. "It's not just interesting storytelling." Who are the other speakers this year? Here are the featured speakers with ties to Southwest Florida: Elyse Lipman, CEO, Lipman Family Farms, in Immokalee Tim Cartwright, partner and co-founder, Fifth Avenue Family Office, in Naples Russell Budd, founding partner, PBS Contractors, in Naples Other speakers are: Dennis T. Jaffe, senior research fellow, BanyanGlobal Family Business Advisors, in Boston, Massachusetts John Macchia Sr., founder and board chairman, Advance Turning & Manufacturing Inc., in Jackson, Mississippi Joseph Suresky, president and dealer principal, R I Suresky & Sons Inc., in Goshen, New York This will be the third such event. The first year Steve Forbes, the chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, was the keynote speaker. He was followed by Alan Hassenfeld, Hasbro's former chairman and CEO. None of the keynote speakers have homes in Naples, or Southwest Florida, Resnick said, so they come here for the conference. "We didn't pay any of them," he said, and every one of the speakers agreed to come here because they "wanted to help us." Most attendees are local, but the event has also drawn business owners from half a dozen states, including New York, Michigan and Minnesota, since its first year. "It actually surprised us," Resnick said of the draw. A handful of students from FGCU are invited to attend for free every year. With the conference, the hope is that more family-owned businesses will stick around, for as long as possible, in the region, Wynn said, as they generally contribute more money to the local economy and get more involved in the local community. When it comes to succession statistics, they're "fairly dire," he emphasized. According to the Family Business Institute, only about 30% of family-owned businesses in America survive into the second generation. That statistic drops to 12% into the third, and 3% into the fourth generation and beyond. "We are at an inflection point with Baby Boomer businesses," Wynn said. "Many are retiring and they're closing their businesses, or selling their businesses to a private equity roll-up company because they don't have a good succession plan. By default, when you have a larger private equity interest buying up those businesses, that can change the complexion and culture of the community." Michael Wynn The U.S. Small Business Administration estimated that about 10 million Baby Boomer-owned businesses would change hands in the decade leading up to 2029. According to Forbes, Baby Boomers, born from 1946 to 1964, account for about 40% of small business, or franchise ownership. All proceeds from the regional conference go toward scholarships for FGCU students planning on joining a family business. This year, 25 entrepreneurial students have been invited to attend. For more information, or tickets, visit fgcu.edu/familybusinessconference/. This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Resnick-Wynn Family Business Conference at FGCU to feature heavy hitters The BT Tower in central London is set to be transformed into a hotel (Daniel LEAL) British telecoms giant BT Group announced Tuesday the sale of its famous BT Tower and that the building located in the heart of London will be transformed into a hotel. The London-listed company has agreed to sell the building for 275 million ($347 million) to New York-based MCR Hotels. "MCR Hotels... plan to preserve BT Tower as an iconic hotel, securing its place as a London landmark for the future," BT said in a statement. A number of operations that were traditionally provided from the listed building are now delivered instead via fixed and mobile networks. "We are proud to preserve this beloved building and will work to develop proposals to tell its story as an iconic hotel, opening its doors for generations to enjoy," said Tyler Morse, CEO and owner of MCR Hotels. The building, originally called the Post Office Tower, was completed in 1964 and officially opened one year later by then-prime minister Harold Wilson. The tower is 177 metres (580 feet) in height, or 189 metres including aerial rigging. It originally included a revolving restaurant on the top floor and a panoramic viewing gallery. However, this was closed after a bomb explosion in 1971 on the 31st floor that caused significant damage but no casualties. ode-rfj/jwp/rl A video of a Ukrainian infantryman allegedly repelling an attack by Russian paratroopers is posted online A video showing a lone Ukrainian marine heroically repelling an attack by a group of Russian paratroopers in the village of Krynky on the Dnipro Rivers occupied left bank in Kherson Oblast was posted on the 38th Separate Marine Brigades Telegram channel on Feb. 20. The exact date of the engagement is unknown. On Feb. 20, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu claimed that Russian troops had "cleared a bridgehead" on the left bank, allegedly taking control of the village of Krynky. Ukraine's southern military command denied this, insisting that its troops continue to hold their positions and inflict significant losses on the Russian invaders. The enemy tried to launch an attack in this sector only once during the day, which was unsuccessful. Read also: Over 70,000 soldiers and numerous weaponry units deployed on left bank of Dnipro Armed Forces On Feb. 2, the Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Natalia Humeniuk said that the overall strength of the Russian occupation forces on the left (eastern) bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson and Zaporizhzhya oblasts was estimated to be over 70,000 personnel with substantial weaponry and equipment. The force of Russians trying to recapture territories on the left bank is constantly changing both quantitatively and qualitatively, she said, adding that they suffer up to 70% of their personnel losses in almost every assault group. On Feb. 6, the DeepState analytical project published a video of the Ukrainian flag in the village of Krynky, which was installed by the military of the 36th separate marine brigade. Read also: Southern Defense Forces report significant losses of Russian personnel and military equipment on Dnipro Rivers left bank Ukrainian soldiers had gained a foothold in several bridgeheads on the occupied left bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast, The Armed Forces of Ukraine officially reported on Nov. 17. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote on Oct. 18, in particular, about the success of the Armed Forces and the advance on the left bank of Kherson Oblast. A breakthrough across the Dnipro River to the occupied part of the oblast in the area of the villages of the Oleshky community was also reported. Read also: Ukraines left bank foothold in Kherson Oblast expands down Dnipro River, say former Aidar Battalion company commander 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 As Ron Sutherland guides his Subaru along the roads of Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, he keeps his eyes peeled. A pair of binoculars sits in the cupholder, ready just in case he notices a red smudge dotted against the browns and tans of the refuges still-working farm fields, everything shaded by a golden sunrise. Its 44 degrees. I think a wolf could just be sitting out in the middle of a field chilling, said Sutherland, the chief scientist of the nonprofit Wildlands Network. Days before, Sutherland and researchers from N.C. State University had published a paper observing a correlation between the red wolfs decline, which accelerated around 2015, and increases in many of the animals the wolves hunt. In the peer-reviewed journal Animal Conservation, the scientists said that correlation suggests that even a small population of red wolves, like the one that persists at Alligator River and nearby Pocosin Lakes in northeastern North Carolina, can have a noticeable impact on the broader ecosystem. You kind of expect that theyre having an impact on the other species in the area but I think our research really showed that, and it really showed that not having that apex predator in the ecosystem can have a lot of ecological consequences, said Alexa Murray, an author of the study who was a masters student at N.C. State University at the time. An endangered red wolf waits in a corn field inside the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on Dec. 15, 2023. What the cameras found Using 25 camera traps, the researchers captured and counted images of various species from 2015 to 2021. From spring 2018 to spring 2021, as the wolf population declined, researchers found: Populations of deer, which red wolves hunt, remained relatively consistent, increasingly slightly. Raccoon sightings increased, from about five per 100 days to nearly 20. Possum sightings grew significantly, going from about five to more than 30. Sightings of potential competition for food like bobcats and black bears increased, slightly for bobcats and significantly for bears. A large black bear roams the edge of a corn field inside the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023. The refuge, located in eastern N.C., is home to some of the largest black bears in the world. The study is careful to note that correlation does not equal causation and expresses regret that data does not exist from 1987 to 2012, when the red wolf population was expanding. Roland Kays, the director of the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences Biodiversity Lab and an author on the study, was surprised by the results, notably the increase in both prey and competition species. That they all went up and that it all happened around the same time period was really striking, Kays said. It really suggests that this isnt just some random factor that we happened to pick up on. Concerns about reintroducing wolves The study had its roots in 2013 and 2014, when there were still about 100 red wolves in northeastern North Carolina. Landowners were raising concerns that ranged from impacts on livestock to worries that the wolves would wipe out the local deer population. A young whitetail deer buck peers through the grassy edge of a cornfield inside the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on Dec. 15, 2023. Sutherland, from the Wildlands Network, thought it was important to capture whether wolves actually were degrading the surrounding ecosystem, particularly the white-tailed deer that are prized by hunters. We thought that was a testable hypothesis: Where the wolves were, would there still be other wildlife there or would the wolves have sort of cleaned everything out? Sutherland said, adding that nobody had really tried to capture the ecological impacts of the red wolf as other researchers had done with the gray wolf in Yellowstone. What Sutherland and the other researchers didnt know was that the period they were capturing would coincide with a collapse of the regions red wolf population, with wolves dying from illegal gunshot injuries, vehicle strikes and, sometimes, natural causes. A sign on U.S. 64 outside Manteo warns motorists to watch for endangered red wolves. Today, there are an estimated 20 to 22 red wolves in the wild, around the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge with a handful in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. A coalition of animal advocacy groups reached a settlement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service last year in which the FWS agreed to release red wolves bred into captivity into the wild. That move is intended to bolster a wild population that had dwindled to as few as seven wolves in 2020. Some skepticism of the study That small population is part of why Mike Phillips, the director of the Turner Endangered Species Fund, expressed skepticism about the conclusiveness of the studys finding. From 1986 to 1994, Phillips worked as the Red Wolf Recovery Programs field coordinator in northeastern North Carolina before moving on to work on the gray wolf recovery in Yellowstone National Park. The impacts of predators, Phillips said, are clearest when the predator is abundant and persistent. Thats difficult in the case of the red wolf, which has been particularly sparse since its population peaked in 2012 and is constantly under threat. Youve got a big study area in Eastern North Carolina, and youve got about 20 red wolves scattered here and there. I just dont know that these correlations mean much, Phillips, who was not involved in the study, said in an interview. Doing the same work for about a decade in a period before wolves are reintroduced and then when the red wolf population was larger and more stable could help yield clearer results, Phillips said, pointing to similar research that has been conducted with gray wolf populations in Yellowstone. A red wolf triggers a Wildlands Network trail camera in an Eastern North Carolina wildlife refuge. The red wolf only exists in the wild in North Carolina. One clear advantage both Phillips and Sutherland noted about working in Yellowstone is that it is one of the most studied areas of wildlife in the world, with the park created in 1872. By comparison, Alligator River and Pocosin Lakes became refuges in the 1980s and have been studied much, much less. Correlations are important. They can stir our imagination. I am absolutely convinced that predation is an important ecological force and if red wolves were common enough for a long enough period of time, I think they would have ecological effects that would be understandable, Phillips said. Capturing what would happen to surrounding wildlife as the wolf population grows would be extremely valuable, agreed Murray, the papers lead author. Hopefully they can keep the cameras out and then the population will start to increase again and we can have that data and compare it to what was going on when the population crashed, said Murray, who now works at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. A red wolf wearing a tracking collar hunts in a corn field at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in eastern North Carolina. Findings about deer and quail Sutherland is hopeful that the studys findings can be used to dispel some concerns about the red wolfs return to the wild. He pointed to deer, which were detected more than 12,000 times on the teams cameras. Every camera detected deer at some point, including the ones where wolf sightings were the most common. That makes sense, Sutherland said, because wolves depend on the deer to live and are more likely to kill what they can eat rather than wiping out the entire population. Rather than being cause for alarm, by returning this native carnivore species, the red wolf perhaps helps bring the ecosystem back into balance, but we certainly havent caused any huge disruption to the system, Sutherland said. Ron Sutherland, a biologist with the Wildlands Network, searches for red wolves in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge on Dec. 14, 2023. The wild red wolf population dwindled to as few as seven wolves in the wild in recent years. He is also interested in continuing to research the wolfs impact, starting with a bird whose songs he and researchers often heard on early summer mornings when they were checking their cameras. Bobwhite quail have seen significant declines over much of the country, including in most of North Carolina. But they are thriving in Alligator River and Pocosin Lakes, leading Sutherland to question whether the red wolfs presence and tendency to prey on raccoons could be protecting the bird. The quails nest on the ground, often in farm fields like the long rectangles that are preserved at Alligator River. Raccoons and possums often eat the eggs that are tucked into those nests. Sutherland is exploring whether theres a link between the seemingly strong quail population in Alligator River and red wolves hunting the quails predators. Theres no question that the habitat is pretty ideal for quail, but that hasnt always worked in other places where theyve done habitat management but dont have this resident population of large wolves that are out there patrolling 24/7 and making life difficult for raccoons, Sutherland said. For his part, Phillips said he is grateful that the red wolfs listing under the Endangered Species Act isnt tied to the species impact on the ecosystem around it. Instead, Phillips said, It demands that red wolves be recovered at some basic fundamental level because they have a right to exist because of their own value, independent of what their ecological value might be. A sign at an entrance to the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge alerts visitors to the presence of red wolves. There are about 20 red wolves in the wild now, all in North Carolina, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service . This story was produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and Green South Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work. If you would like to help support local journalism, please consider signing up for a digital subscription, which you can do here. A still image of the aftermath of a police-involved fatal car crash that happened in the early morning hours of Aug. 14, 2023, which was taken from the dashboard-mounted camera of a Long Branch police vehicle that responded to the scene. LONG BRANCH A state grand jury has declined to indict a Long Branch police officer whose cruiser struck a BMW while he was responding to an armed burglary, killing a 38-year-year old city woman who was a front-seat passenger in that vehicle, driven by the suspect. The woman, Tracee Blount, died a few hours after the collision with Officer Lucas Brito in the early hours of Aug. 14. Shortly before 4 a.m. on that Monday, a 911 caller reported an armed break-in at his Narragansett Avenue home, according to an investigation by the state Attorney General. The resident told police he was awakened by a man armed with a gun in his living room, demanding money, authorities said. More: Teen shot in leg in Lakewood on Monday night, no report of an arrest Long Branch police officers who responded to the call in marked patrol cars, saw a white BMW fleeing the scene, authorities said. Cpl. Bienvenido Cruz ordered the driver to stop, but the driver continued. Shortly after at MacArthur and Elmwood avenues, Officer Lucas Brito's vehicle collided with the BMW carrying Blount, the Attorney Generals office said. The driver, Altonia Williams, was the suspect fleeing the area of the home break-in, authorities said. More: Middletown cop charged with shoplifting $500 in merchandise: Monmouth County Prosecutor Blount was rushed to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she was pronounced dead about 7:12 a.m. Williams, 46, also of Long Branch, was arrested and also taken to the medical center. Brito was also taken to the medical center with injuries that were not life-threatening. County and Long Branch investigators later determined that Williams' driver's license was suspended and that he was high on marijuana at the time of the crash. In November, a Monmouth County grand jury indicted Williams on 19 counts in the burglary and fatal crash, including felony murder. Evidence presented to the grand jury included witness interviews, photographs, dashboard camera footage, body-worn camera footage and autopsy results from the medical examiner. The grand jury concluded its deliberations on Feb. 5, voting against charges for Brito. Ken Serrano covers crime, breaking news and investigations. Reach him at 732-643-4029 or at kserrano@gannettnj.com. This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Long Branch: Grand jury declines to charge cop in crash death of woman Its been several months since longtime Chinese restaurant Jen Jens closed in Overland Park. Mario Candia who owns Dragon Empire Chinese Buffet in Overland Park began eyeing the vacated space near Glenwood Antique Mall soon after. He decided it would be the perfect spot to open his second Chinese restaurant and began getting the location at 9066 Metcalf Ave. ready for opening day. (Which still was an arduous process, even though he was converting one restaurant to another, Candia added.) Candias new Chinese restaurant, Sacred Wok, opened last Thursday afternoon. It offers many of the same delicacies as Jen Jens: vegetable fried rice, sweet and sour chicken, crab rangoons, etc. Candia recommended the chicken with cashew nuts for $9.25. While Candia serves Chinese cuisine, he himself is Mixtec, or indigenous Mexican. So why open a Chinese restaurant? Long story, but Candia gave the shortened version: His father, whos the chef at Sacred Wok, immigrated to the United States in the 90s and soon began working in a Chinese restaurant. Cooking at his own Chinese restaurant seemed like a natural progression. We want to have people taste our cooking, our flavor, Candia said. In the dining room, red paper lanterns hang above, and a faux cherry blossom tree sits by the entrance. Candia loves food, of course, but hes most passionate about the people who walk through his restaurant doors. Its why we work in a restaurant we can talk to customers, co-workers and that, he said. Sacred Wok is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Lose part of yourself: Mother waiting for justice 10 years after sons murder in Huntersville; killer still at-large HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) For ten years, a mother in Cornelius has never known who killed her son. Now police are hoping a $14,000 reward will give the mom the answers shes so desperate to find in the 10-year-old case of Peter Jordans murder. Peter Jordan (Huntersville Police Department) Jordans mom says she has no justice because her sons killers are still out there, but every day she has hope that theyll be caught. Previous | Reward offered in decade-old cold case homicide in Huntersville: Police He was like a baby here, said Carolyn Averill, going through pictures of her son, Jordan. Theyre all really cute pictures of so many different stages of his life. The photos represent treasured memories with her son. Peter had a big heart, and he always did things that made me feel special, said Averill. Jordan graduated from Hough High School. On February 19, 2014, Jordan was visiting a friend at the Landings at Northcross Apartments in Huntersville. I remember that day clearly because I came home from work around noon and I was in his bedroom hugging him and telling him that I loved him and at 6 oclock he was shot, said Averill. Averill says her son had stepped just outside the front door of his friends apartment, and someone came up and shot and killed him. Its been a nightmare; Ive lost both of my parents but when you lose a kid, its a different feeling; its like you lose part of yourself, said Averill. For ten years, Averill has lived with very few answers about who killed her son and why. I think by people not coming forward with information is sending the wrong message that its okay for these guys to do something like this to someone else, said Averill. It makes me feel very outraged. Charlotte brewery temporarily closing both of its locations due to death of co-owner But she keeps the faith that one day theyll know what happened to her son. Every day we think of him and every day we hope there will be good news that someone will come forward with information. Huntersville Police did not answer questions Tuesday from Queen City News about suspect or car descriptions. If you have any information, reach out to North Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers or call Detective Hardy at 704-464-5400. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) The lost goat found roaming the streets of Stafford County could head to the courtroom for possession if the owner is not found. In the meantime, the Stafford County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post that Vincent Van Goat is being taken care of by a foster family. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Stafford County Sheriffs Office looking for owner of missing goat We were amazed at the number of residents that offered to help with the care of Vincent van Goat, the post read. Vincent Van Goat was found wandering around the Seven Lakes area Sunday morning and the owner has still not yet been found as of Tuesday evening. Any information on the goats owner would be greatly appreciated, SCSO said in a previous Facebook post. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Hoping to get plans for passenger rail between San Antonio and Austin back on track, local leaders recently met with Union Pacific Railroad representatives in Washington, D.C. Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai and Travis County Judge Andy Brown held discussions with the railroad company about expanding service between the two metropolitan areas and beyond. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Feb. 12 talks focused on a possible partnership to widen passenger travel through Central Texas, South Texas and Mexico, according to the Travis County judges office. As we move forward, our priority is to continue engaging in ongoing discussions with Union Pacific and seeking solutions to address transportation challenges between Austin and San Antonio, Sakai said in a news release. Sakai and Brown teamed up in December to promote the idea of getting Spurs fans to games with passenger rail between San Antonio and Austin, which they hope to unite in a super region. In past years, Union Pacific has resisted the passenger-rail idea; it declined to share tracks with the Lone Star Rail District project in 2016. A Lufthansa passenger is suing the airline, saying he was thrown around so violently by severe turbulence that his back was fractured A Lufthansa flight from Austin to Germany encountered severe turbulence last year. A passenger sued the airline last Friday, saying he experienced a fractured lumbar and herniated disc. He says the flight crew didn't warn passengers, then instructed them to delete images upon landing. Lufthansa is being sued by a passenger who says he fractured his back when severe turbulence threw him against the ceiling of the plane during a flight in March 2023. Elwaleed Sidahmed filed a lawsuit against the German airline in a Texas District Court last Friday, which Business Insider has seen. It says he was traveling on Flight 469 from Austin to Frankfurt, Germany last March when the plane encountered "severe and violent turbulence." Around an hour into the flight, there were sudden changes in the altitude of the Airbus A330, the complaint says. The "violent aircraft jolting, shaking, and rocking," forced several passengers out of their seats, it adds. The suit says Sidahmed "violently struck the cabin ceiling and was thrown violently back down to his seat." He says this impact caused a lumbar back fracture and a herniated disc. The case against Lufthansa claims that the seatbelt sign was never illuminated, and the flight crew didn't warn anybody about the turbulence. At the time of the incident, a Lufthansa spokesperson told Business Insider in a statement the plane was hit by "brief severe turbulence." "This was so-called clear air turbulence, which can occur without visible weather phenomena or advance warning," they added. A passenger on the flight previously told BI that she thought that the plane was going to crash and that she would die. "It was one of those moments where within five-to-ten minutes of processing, you knew you were going to die and we didn't know if we were going to make it safely anywhere," Rolanda Schmidt said. The complaint says the flight continued for another hour before diverting to Washington Dulles International Airport. "Upon landing, the flight crew told passengers over the plane's speaker to delete any pictures or videos they had taken of the flight," the suit claims. '"Lufthansa issued the instruction at least twice before the passengers were able to disembark," it added. "On information and belief, Lufthansa's instructions resulted in the destruction and loss of important evidence regarding the accident on Flight 469." This was also claimed by Schmidt, who said she and fellow passengers were told to delete images from the flight, a request she declined. Some pictures have been published of the incident, showing items strewn around the cabin. Lufthansa did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider US Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at the presidential palace before a G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro later in the day (EVARISTO SA) Secretary of State Antony Blinken told President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that the United States disagrees with controversial remarks by the Brazilian leader comparing Israel's actions in Gaza to the Holocaust, a US official said Wednesday. Blinken "made clear we disagree with those comments" in a more than 90-minute meeting with Lula, a senior State Department official told journalists, saying the pair had a "frank exchange" during the sit-down at the presidential palace in Brasilia. Lula on Sunday called US ally Israel's military offensive in the Gaza Strip a "genocide," comparing it to "when Hitler decided to kill the Jews." Israel reacted furiously, declaring the Brazilian leader "persona non grata." Blinken "raised the issue and made clear we disagree with those comments," a senior State Department official told journalists traveling with the secretary. The official said the pair had also discussed "whether there is room for diplomacy" on the war in Ukraine -- another issue over which Lula has often been at loggerheads with the United States. "We don't see the conditions for (diplomacy) right now," the official said. Lula and Blinken also discussed the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, as well as Venezuela, which is locked in a territorial dispute with neighboring Guyana over the oil-rich Essequibo region. The official said Blinken thanked Brazil for "its efforts to try and reduce tensions between Venezuela and Guyana." Lula wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that he and Blinken had discussed issues including a US-Brazilian initiative on helping workers, the environment and the clean-energy transition, in addition to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. He posted a picture of himself and Blinken smiling and clasping hands. Blinken said it had been a "very, very good meeting," in brief comments to journalists as he left the presidential palace. It is Blinken's first trip to Brazil since taking office three years ago. US relations with Latin America's biggest economy warmed when Lula returned to power in January 2023, replacing Donald Trump ally Jair Bolsonaro. Lula visited Washington a month after taking office to meet with President Joe Biden. But independent-minded Lula, 78, a leading voice for the Global South, has pushed back against the United States on issues including the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Blinken arrived later Wednesday in Rio de Janeiro for a G20 foreign ministers meeting, where his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, will also be present. lb/jhb/des Most years, I visit my family in Taiwan for Lunar New Year. And each trip, since I was very small, I have found myself before a family altar, with a stick of smoking incense in my hands, wondering exactly what Im supposed to do, think or say. None of my Taiwanese relatives ever offered any instructions that I can recall. In the convoluted balancing of family needs and desires that happens on these trips back home, a 7-year-old's confusion does not carry much weight. My strategy has been to bow when everyone else does and affix an appropriately solemn expression on my face. But something clicked during this years trip to Taiwan, when I went with my aunts to light incense at the temple to honor our ancestors. And a lot of that has to do with my grandmother, who died in 2021. My grandma was the strongest person I knew. She had no schooling, but she raised four daughters and a son by herself after my grandfather suffered a car accident when my mom was young. She was a single mother and a subsistence farmer who raised chickens and grew rice and sugarcane in the fields near our family home in Hsinchu. The columnist's grandmother, grandfather, aunts and uncles in Hsinchu, Taiwan. (Frank Shyong) She did odd jobs in exchange for eggs, fruits and vegetables to feed the family, and grew cabbage in their backyard. She saved up money to start her own convenience store, and the money from the store became a boarding house for university students that now stands five stories tall. Her efforts raised our family from poverty to the middle class in Taiwan in a single generation. I never got to talk to my grandma. She spoke Taiyu, a Taiwanese dialect, and I spoke Mandarin, and we could only afford to visit once every few years, for a few days. But every time we arrived, there was a massive feast waiting with all of our favorite foods along with endless plates of cut wax apples, guavas and oranges. Even though we couldnt understand each other, she could always make me laugh. She always made an effort to talk to me anyway. I would nod and she would laugh, because I was only pretending to know. She was fierce and dominant and hilarious. She had an earthy, mischievous sense of humor and a booming voice that you could hear throughout the whole house. When she spoke, my loud, chaotic family went silent. I remember falling asleep to the sound of my aunties laughing. But she had a stroke in 2018 that took away her ability to speak. The house in Hsinchu went quiet. Just the creak-clank, creak-clank of her walker and the echoing claps of our house slippers on the tile floors. Over the dull roar of passing vehicles, I would overhear fearful whispers in Mandarin about her health and medical care, which always shifted to Taiyu when I was around. But I kept visiting. Each time, as soon as I arrived, she would say the name of my favorite dish and, using only her eyes, silently command my aunties to fetch it for me. When she passed away, none of us were ready. Her passing tore a hole in a family that had already lost too much, too soon. My uncle died young in a construction accident and we lost my grandfather before I was born. She was the star we orbited, our center of gravity, and without her, we were adrift. I had always imagined I would learn her language and surprise her one year, but now I was too late. This year, I visited Taiwan for the first time since she died. Her remains are stored in one of a series of ornate lockers in the columbarium of a Buddhist temple in Hsinchu, second from the bottom, just a few feet away from my uncle, her son. We lighted incense, then knelt in the narrow hallway and clasped our hands. Suddenly the language wasn't important. Pent-up words poured out. I thanked her for raising my mother to be strong, and I promised her I would take care of her daughter. I told her that I am here because she persevered and that Im glad she is resting now. That we miss her, and though things will never be the same without her, we will keep her memory alive and always move forward. I have never been religious or superstitious, and I'm not aware of which sect of Buddhism we identify with. But this year, I saw my grandmother. I heard her in the fond stories told to fill long silences. I recognized her in the faces of my mother and aunties. I felt her love in the strength of their devotion and the depth of their grief. When we drove by the family home, I tasted her cabbage omelet and the gong wan that she made from scratch. I remembered how her hands felt in mine, warm, deeply lined, callused from a lifetime of hard work. For children of immigrants growing up with American pressures and influences, these traditions can feel like a dusty, boring waste of time. Our parents aren't always good at explaining, because they often don't understand either. But Im writing this because I believe that a time will come when tradition will be a comfort and a release. Traditions exist because we want to honor history, but I think we keep them around because we need them. For people who were taught to never let hardship stop the work of life, the temple allows us to release grief and offers a space in which to resurrect our loved ones through memory. Grandma, I think I understand now. I light this incense in the hopes that this smoke might carry my words to you. We come here every year so that, across this bridge of tradition, we might meet again, if just for a moment, and find the strength to bear the pain of parting for one more year. I light this incense because its too hard to say goodbye, forever. Sometimes it is easier to say, see you next year. And every year after that. 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. The classic tin will retain its original illustration but the rebrand has been rolled across the rest of the product's range The rebranding of Lyles Golden Syrup has been derided as feeble and woolly by a descendant of the companys founder who insisted dont junk a classic. Alexander Linklater, whose great-great-great grandfather Abram Lyle designed the original dark green and gold packaging of a dead lion being swarmed by bees in 1883, questioned why its makers had decided to throw away 141 years of proven branding. Tate & Lyle Sugars, which owns Lyles Golden Syrup, have replaced the logo to show a rather abstract lions face with a single bee flying around its mane to try and appeal to a 21st-century audience. Lyles original artwork references the Old Testament story of Samson tearing apart an attacking lion with his bare hands. On his return, Samson finds that a swarm of bees have created a hive with honey inside the carcass, which Samson gathers for himself and his parents. The packaging features the Biblical quotation from the story Out of the strong came forth sweetness. It is the worlds oldest unchanged brand packaging, and holds a Guinness World Record, having remained almost identical since 1883. Alexander Linklater said the rebranding is 'a move away from what was a real piece of commercial history' Tate and Lyle rolled out the rebrand across the full product range, excluding the classic tin, which retains its original illustration. Mr Linklater, a 55-year-old journalist and biographer, urged the company: Dont junk a time-proven classic design. He told The Telegraph: They are changing something that is both very distinctive and familiar to something generic and woolly. It was Britains oldest brand. The rebranding is a move away from what was a real piece of commercial history. I do not think the feeble woolly-shaped lion is very good. Why throw away 140 years of proven branding? Mr Linklater disclosed how his ancestor detested his partner Henry Tate with the pair only being able to merge their companies after Lyles death. 3/ Abram was famous for his syrup while Henry Tate was known for his sugar cubes. The two men detested each other and the Tate & Lyle merger was only possible after Abrams death. Alexander Linklater (@ARLinklater) February 21, 2024 He said nothing remains today of his great-great-grandfathers original business, following the Second World War where subsequent death duties had wiped out the companys liquid assets. Lyle was a deeply religious lifelong teetotaler of frightening temper and fierce morality, Mr Linklater said, and had been brought up in poverty in the industrial town of Greenock before he moved to London. Lyle, a Presbyterian, died in 1891 from pneumonia with thousands lining the streets in Greenock at his funeral where he had been provost, Mr Linklater added. On Tuesday, Tate & Lyle Sugars faced criticism from Church of England members who claimed the rebrand eradicates the Christian messaging in its logo. Tate & Lyle Sugars apologised for the upset caused and said religion played no part in the decision to change the branding. James Whiteley, brand director for Lyles Golden Syrup, said: Were excited to unveil a fresh redesign for the Lyles Golden Syrup brand. While well continue to honour our original branding with the heritage tin, consumers need to see brands moving with the times and meeting their current needs. Our fresh, contemporary design brings Lyles into the modern day, appealing to the everyday British household while still feeling nostalgic and authentically Lyles. Were confident that the fresh new design will make it easier for consumers to discover Lyles as an affordable, everyday treat while re-establishing the brand as the go-to syrup brand for the modern UK family, featuring the same delicious taste that makes you feel Absolutely Golden. 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. An Arlington woman was arrested in December for allegedly killing her newborn baby and dumping the body inside a Phoenix airport trash can nearly 20 years ago. The Snohomish County Sheriffs Office said it arrested 51-year-old Annie Anderson on December 21 without incident and booked her into the Snohomish County Jail. Anderson is believed to have killed her one-day-old daughter, dumping the body inside a bathroom trashcan at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix, and getting a flight back to Washington in 2005. The case of Baby Skylar drew national attention as police had no leads or suspects for years. When they arrived at the scene, they found a female newborn wrapped in newspapers and a white towel, stuffed in a Marriot bag with red lettering deceased, Lt. James Hester with Phoenix Police said. Phoenix homicide detectives, along with the FBIs Violent Crimes Task Force, were able to use forensic testing called Investigative Genetic Genealogy, or IGG, to find a parental match to Baby Skylar, which led them to Anderson. Lt. Hester said these sorts of advancements in technology have helped them tremendously. Advancements in DNA and other forensic technologies in use by the Phoenix Police Crime Laboratory are getting better every year, which allows law enforcement to reevaluate evidence and find new leads that were not there previously, Lt. Hester said. KIRO 7 went to the Arlington neighborhood where Anderson was arrested. Most neighbors we spoke with say they didnt know Anderson at all and that hardly anyone living at the home she was staying in came out of the house. One new mother told KIRO 7 off-camera how gut-wrenching the news is. Im trying not to cry thinking about it, she said. I cant imagine. Anderson could be charged with first-degree murder and child abuse. She has a hearing date set for March 18. CACHE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) The Cache County School District came under heavy fire on social media Wednesday morning after choosing to hold schools on a regular school schedule after a night of heavy snow. Now, Cache County School District is admitting it made the wrong call. READ NEXT: Cache County elections worker allegedly alters document, charged with felony Northern Utah has been on the receiving end of snowfall since Tuesday night. The National Weather Service warned of one to two inches of new snow during Wednesday morning with more snow expected to accumulate into Wednesday evening. The Cache County area is under a winter advisory, warning residents of six to 12 inches of snow from the current storm. As of Wednesday morning, the Logan area had received over 7 inches of snow while the Richmond area reported over a foot of snow overnight, according to NWS data. Snow covers the ground and creates near-white-out conditions at Utah State University in Logan on Wednesday morning, Feb. 21, 2024. (Courtesy: Utah State University) Despite the adverse weather, school district officials made the decision not to delay the start of the school day or cancel class altogether. In a social media post, school district officials warned there could be adverse weather conditions and that parents are encouraged to make attendance decisions for their children based on their ability to get to school and that tardies and absences would not count against their students. The social post received nearly 100 comments within three hours, many of which were parents voicing their displeasure with the decision. Some called the choice disappointing and asked for Cache County School District to do better. My kids bus still hasnt got to the stop 50 minutes late, one commenter said Wednesday morning. The bus is stuck sideways on a road. I am now taking [the] kids to school. Whoever made this choice, should be fired. 9-year-old arrested, allegedly shot and killed family member With all due respect for making decisions for a large amount of people, this should have been an easy decision to at least delay start or cancel, another comment read. Use your resources. Do an online day. Use a snow day. Please understand that you are making decisions for a large amount of people and putting them all in possibly dangerous situations. My kids education is important but please remember their safety is more important. Following the barrage of negative comments, Cache County updated the post and admitted their mistake. Today, we made the wrong call, said Cache County District officials. Based on the conditions, we realize schools should have at least had a late start. The safety of our students and staff is very important to us and we will be doing a thorough review of our processes to determine how we can continue to improve. According to the Cache County School District website, the decision to issue a delayed start or closure of schools follows set procedures and guidelines. The districts Transportation Department uses data from the National Weather Service and other local entities and considers factors such as snow accumulation, temperature, visibility, road conditions, and wind to make the decision. The Superintendent then makes a decision on whether or not to alter the schedule by 5:30 a.m. based on the recommendation from the Transportation Department. In a statement to ABC4, a CCSD spokesperson said the decision was made at 5:30 a.m. but as the morning continued, it became apparent that the weather warranted at least a delayed start. However, at that point, buses were on the roads and staff and students were already on their way to school, said the district. An apology was issued to our community with a commitment to review our processes and determine how we can improve. We will continue to strive to make the best decisions possible to keep our students, families and staff safe in inclement weather. The school district called the decision can often be complex, especially as the district covers a large geographical area, oftentimes experiencing weather differently. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Mammoth Mountain records 10 feet of snow so far this month Skiers and snowboarders alike are enjoying the deluge of precipitation brought on by the latest round of winter storms in Southern California. Mammoth Mountain in the Eastern Sierra reports that 10 feet of snow has fallen at the resort since February began. Eleven inches fell just overnight between Monday and Tuesday, resort officials said. More could fall leading into Wednesday. Skiers and snowboarders were treated to major snowfall on Mammoth Mountain in February 2024. (Jacob Myhre, Mammoth Lakes Tourism) A Mammoth Mountain lift is seen in this photo from Mammoth Lakes Tourism. The mountain saw more than ten feet of snow in February as of Feb. 20, 2024. (Jacob Myhre, Mammoth Lakes Tourism) Heavy machinery clears a roadway at Mammoth Mountain in February 2024. (Jacob Myhre, Mammoth Lakes Tourism) Mammoth is currently operating at full capacity with all its lifts and trails open every day, weather permitting. Rain continues Tuesday for already-drenched Southern California Snow and water remain possible in the coming days, but sunshine is in the forecast for Mammoth later this week. Conditions will be excellent for those looking to enjoy all the new snow the resort has received so far this month, a spokesperson for Mammoth Lakes Tourism said. For the latest on the winter weather conditions at Mammoth, visit the resorts Winter Report on its website. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A 28-year-old Amherst man was arraigned on multiple charges for his alleged involvement in a fatal shooting in the City of Buffalos Allentown neighborhood, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced. Nigel L. Flint was arraigned Tuesday on one count of murder in the second degree and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. In September 2023, at approximately 4 a.m., police responded to the scene on the 200 block of Allen Street where a 28-year-old man had been shot, authorities said. They said Flint, allegedly, shot the victim, identified as Darnell J. Lynch, Jr., with an illegal weapon. Lynch died at the scene. At approximately 4:15 a.m. the same day, authorities said police saw a vehicle traveling in the wrong way on Mariner Street, a short distance away from the scene of the homicide investigation. Authorities said a loaded, illegal handgun was allegedly found inside the vehicle during a search and submitted into evidence. 3 arrests made after fatal Allen Street shooting, no homicide charges amid investigation In January 2024, authorities said Flint was located in Detroit, Michigan where he was taken into custody on an indictment warrant. Flint was returned to Western New York in mid-February to face prosecution. Flint is scheduled to return to court on March 4 for a pre-trial conference and was held without bail. If convicted of the highest charge, he faces a maximum of 25 years to life in prison. Latest Posts Emily Miller is a digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2022. See more of her work here. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. Detectives at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department arrested Shyhied Ivey, 18, who is accused of breaking into vehicles at parking decks around Charlotte hospitals. Inside Operation SCARLET, CMPDs task force to stop high-end car theft Ivey is facing a long list of charges including three counts of larceny of a motor vehicle, two counts of felony conspiracy, 11 counts of breaking into a motor vehicle, felony larceny, and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Update on SCARLET (Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team): CMPD detectives have arrested Shyhied Ivey (DOB: 07/03/2005) following a joint operation involving SCARLET and several divisions. Ivey was identified after he was witnessed breaking into vehicles at several pic.twitter.com/mq5mIOWV5q CMPD News (@CMPD) February 20, 2024 I think thats good, said Wayne Hancock, who works at Atrium Health Main. It should send a message that you going to be caught if you come over there, breaking in cars. Ivey is connected to more break-ins at Atrium Health Main that happened in December 2023. I think thats good, said Wayne Hancock, whos truck was parked at Atrium. It should send a message that youre going to be caught if you come over there, breaking in cars. I was in the building and my manager called and said, Someone broke in your truck. Im like, what? Hancock said. Ivey is accused of smashing out the passenger side window of Hancocks Dodge Ram. Just glass, Hancock said. Everything out of my dash. Everything out of here. My backseat was lifted up. I had stuff still on the floor. A month later, Hancock said shattered pieces of the crime still linger. Ive been kind of getting a little-bit-by-little-bit and its still stuff Im seeing, Hancock said. CMPD said Ivey and two accomplices drove into the Atrium parking deck in a stolen Infiniti Q50 and smashed the windows out of seven vehicles. They stole peoples belongings, including a stun gun. They said they seen some guys in the parking deck with gloves and masks on, Hancock said. They said they had them on camera. Channel 9 obtained warrants that say Ivey was the getaway driver and that surveillance cameras captured him with his face mask pulled down. Hancock thinks its justice that Iveys face was exposed long enough to lead to his arrest. This is what I work for, he said. This is what keeps me my job. Im still kind of tentative. Is my truck going to be broken in while Im trying to work? Police are looking for two more suspects. The joint effort involved Operation SCARLET, or Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team. SCARLET is a collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies cracking down on high-end vehicle thefts in Charlotte and surrounding areas, CMPD said. VIDEO: Inside Operation SCARLET, CMPDs task force to stop high-end car theft Prosecutors in Maricopa County and New York City tried to score political points on Wednesday over custody of a man accused of violent crimes in both areas. Rachel Mitchell, Maricopa County attorney, threw the first punch. A 26-year-old man suspected of stabbing a woman in the bathroom of a local McDonald's who also is wanted in a New York City murder would remain in custody in Arizona, she said. Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by the Manhattan DA, I think it's safer to keep him here and keep him in custody so he cannot be out doing this to individuals in our state or county or anywhere else," she said at a news briefing on Wednesday. In response to Mitchell's comments, Manhattan District Attorney spokesperson Emily Tuttle emailed The Arizona Republic. The statement read: "It is deeply disturbing that D.A. Mitchell is playing political games in a murder investigation. In Manhattan, we are serious about New Yorkers safety, which is why murders are down 24% and shootings are down 38% since D.A. (Alvin) Bragg took office. "New Yorks murder rate is less than half that of Phoenix, Arizona, because of the hard work of the NYPD and all of our law enforcement partners. It is a slap in the face to them and to the victim in our case to refuse to allow us to seek justice and full accountability for a New Yorkers death." Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell says Raad Almansoori will not be extradited to New York. The Manhattan DA's Office also emailed a chart comparing 2022 homicides per 100,000 residents between Phoenix and New York City and Manhattan. The bar graph, also shared Wednesday on X, formerly known as Twitter, Phoenix's rate at 11.6, while New York City's and Manhattan's stood at 5.4 and 5, respectively. Mitchell took to X to respond to the statement by the Manhattan DA's Office."Its great to see the @ManhattanDA finally take interest in violent crime. My job is to focus on the victims I was elected to protect," read Mitchell's post. Raad Almansoori, 26, suspected of two stabbings in the Phoenix area, was being held without bond on suspicion of attempted murder and aggravated assault, Mitchell said. Metro Phoenix police officials said Almansoori made statements that he intended to continue his crime spree in the Valley when he was found and taken into custody Sunday. Almansoori told officers after his arrest he had murdered a woman in New York City 10 days before. He would not be extradited to New York, Mitchell said. Raad Almansoori is wanted in a beating death in New York Almansoori is wanted in the beating death of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38, at a Manhattan hotel, according to the New York Times. New York City police told the Times they believe Almansoori killed Oleas-Aranciba, who was working as an escort, with an iron to the head. Her death occurred between the afternoon of Feb. 7 and 10:30 a.m. Feb. 8. at the SoHo 54 Hotel. "Google 'SoHo 54 Hotel,'" Almansoori told investigators, according to Joseph Kenny, New York Police Department chief of detectives. Kenny spoke at a Tuesday news conference, according to the Times. A prosecutor from the Manhattan DA's Office traveled to Maricopa County to arrange Almansoori's extradition to New York, according to The Times. Kenny said Almansoori told Surprise police he "hurt three additional girls in Florida," according to the Times. Woman stabbed 3 times in bathroom at Surprise McDonald's At a news briefing in Surprise Wednesday, officials provided further details of the stabbing at a McDonald's near Greenway and Reems roads and the arrest of Almansoori in Scottsdale hours later. Video surveillance showed a man following the McDonald's employee into the restaurant bathroom, where he banged on the woman's locked stall before crawling under the door. The man brandished a gun, later identified as a BB gun, and stabbed the woman at least three times in the neck after she screamed, police said. The man then fled south and stole a car near Sarival Avenue and Acoma Drive, according to Surprise police. Complete strangers and co-workers at the McDonalds chased the man as he fled, and others provided medical aid, which likely was why the woman was still alive, Surprise police spokesperson Sgt. Rick Hernandez said. Surprise police pursued the attacker. Almansoori was taken into custody after Scottsdale Police Department's automated license plate readers picked up the vehicle he was driving at several locations. Officers found him in a parking garage at Scottsdale Fashion Square, where he was reversed into a parking space, according to Scottsdale police Chief Jeff Walther. This gentleman was going to continue this string of violence, and he was going to do so there at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Walther said. Surprise police Chief Benny Pina said at the news briefing, He intended to find and harm more individuals in our community. This arrest without a doubt stopped someone, with as heinous as everything he has done so far, from continuing to that path of destruction and eroding community safety. Pina said Surprise police worked with the Department of Public Safety to use its labs to ensure Almansoori was entered into CODIS, a national DNA information repository maintained by the FBI. He may be involved with other more heinous crimes, and since he had spent many years as a resident of Arizona, we wanted to guarantee that we didnt have any open cases that we could link to him and immediately begin to investigate," Pina said. "That process is underway. All of the violent incidents tied to Almansoori appear to be random and targeted toward young women, Hernandez said, adding that investigators would be working to see if Almansoori is tied to other metro Phoenix cases. Almansoori also was suspected of a Saturday stabbing at a business near 19th and Glendale avenues in Phoenix, according to Phoenix police. Assistant police Chief Ed DeCastro said officers responded to an armed robbery call at a business and found that a woman had gone to medical urgent care for treatment after a man attempted to take the woman's car at gun- and knifepoint. The woman was stabbed and left outside the business with her vehicle after the man fled, DeCastro said. Anyone with more information is asked to call the Surprise Police Department at (623) 222-TIPS (8477). Arizona Republic reporter Perry Vandell contributed to this article. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Rachel Mitchell keeps NY murder suspect Raad Almansoori in AZ custody U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits a classroom at Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at Burbank and six other SAISD high schools. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL A $4.5 million federal grant will help high school students in the San Antonio Independent School District achieve whatever you dream about doing, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro told some of them Tuesday at Burbank High School. Find teachers and family members and others who believe in you, who will lift you up and help you get to where you want to go. This grant and everything were doing is a small part of that, the lawmaker said after dropping in on a TOK class Theory of Knowledge, a multidisciplinary course on debate, discernment and decision-making. The three-year U.S. Department of Education grant will enhance college and workforce-readiness programs at the districts seven major high schools, including dual-credit courses, work-based learning opportunities and pathways to credentials for high-wage, high-demand jobs. Castro said hell seek an extension of the grant for 2027 and beyond. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Castro also urged Burbank seniors not to get caught in a work-school tug-of-war that leads many to abandon plans for college or promising careers in order to help their families pay the bills. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits a classroom at Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at Burbank and six other SAISD high schools. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at seven SAISD high schools. Kaylee Greenlee Beal I want to make sure that you guys, whatever it is that you do, that youre always confident in yourselves, that you believe in yourself and that you surround yourself with people that believe in you, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The grant comes as SAISD and other school districts are bracing for a rough 2025 fiscal year. Federal pandemic relief funds will expire in September, and districts are expecting a shortfall in Medicaid reimbursements for services provided to special education students. There has been no substantive help from the state, and Superintendent Jaime Aquino said its shameful that despite having a $33 billion surplus, the Legislature provided no increase last year in per-pupil funding. Thank you for being the voice for San Antonio and for SAISD in particular, he told Castro. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits a classroom at Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at Burbank and six other SAISD high schools. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Adeline Cruz, a senior thinking of enrolling at Texas A&M University-San Antonio in the fall, was one of several students who met Castro at Burbanks College and Career Hub, which helped her secure scholarships and financial aid as she applied to a dozen different institutions. Ranked in the top 15% of her class, Cruz wants to study psychology and continue helping people, as she has in her role as president of Best Buddies, a club on campus that assists children in special education. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I plan to help in any way I can, to make a difference in the world, even if I dont get credit, necessarily, said Adeline, 17. If you do a good deed, not everyones going to know about it, and thats really OK. Emilio Zapata, 18, wants to earn a bachelors in business and accounting at the University of Texas at San Antonio, then enlist as an officer in the Air Force. Hed like to get a masters and save up to buy land so he can work from home, do some farming and live a peaceful life in the country. The college hub has been a real great help for me for scholarship and financial aid, Zapata said, despite repeated delays in this years rollout of the revamped Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at seven SAISD high schools. Kaylee Greenlee Beal Advertisement Article continues below this ad U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro visits a classroom at Burbank High School on Tuesday to celebrate a $4.5 million federal grant for career and college readiness resources at Burbank and six other SAISD high schools. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL Especially with the new system theyve implemented this year, its just been stressful. But coming here, they always point me in the right direction, he said. Angelica Melendez, an adviser for college-bound students at Burbank, urged Castro to do what he can to improve communications and operations of the overhauled FAFSA system. Graduates have until May 1 to decide where theyll enroll in the fall, but likely wont know what aid they qualify for until April. Some colleges have moved their commitment deadline back to June in response. Castro said his office is trying to help, communicating regularly with the Department of Education. On the larger issue of public school funding, he said his staff goes after whatever financial support it can pretty zealously. But the state of Texas also needs to step up and make sure that the kids of Texas are well served, Castro said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Although some charter schools perform well, I dont think you put charter schools out there just to re-create another school system, he said. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) A man and woman were shot in separate shootings on Tuesday, Feb. 20. The New Orleans Police Department reported the first shooting happened around 5:10 p.m. in the 8400 block of Oleander Street in Hollygrove. Man realizes hes been shot while walking in Village de LEst A 62-year-old woman was walking when the suspect started shooting at a passing vehicle. She was shot during the incident. She walked home, where she was taken by EMS to a local hospital. According to the NOPD, the second shooting happened around 10:35 p.m. in the 2300 block of South Prieur Street in Central City. Officers found that a man had been shot at least once. The victim and the suspect were arguing when the suspect fired multiple shots at the victim. Further details about the shootings werent released. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. Edward McKinley reports on Texas state government and politics from the Hearst Bureau in Austin for the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News, with a particular focus on education issues. He can be reached at edward.mckinley@houstonchronicle.com. He is a graduate of the Missouri School of Journalism and Georgetowns Masters in American Government program. He previously reported for The Albany Times Union and the Kansas City Star newspapers, and he originally hails from the great state of Minnesota. A man who was beaten by a Cathedral City police officer following a pursuit for a traffic violation in 2020 has sued the city and the since-departed officer who broke his ankle with a baton. The lawsuit filed by Jose Lenor Garcia and alleging excessive force comes weeks after four felony charges against him were dismissed by prosecutors. Then-Officer Jeffrey Aguirre beat Garcia with a baton after several other officers had removed the man from his car and were attempting to handcuff him. The Nov. 21, 2020, confrontation was captured in dash and body-worn camera footage, some of which was later posted online. Garcia, now 34, sued the city, its police department and Aguirre in United States District Court on Jan. 31, soon after most charges in his criminal case were dropped. (He remains charged with evading arrest, accused of fleeing when officers tried to pull him over.) The lawsuit asks for financial damages, alleging Garcia's civil rights were violated by Aguirre's use of excessive force and that the city is legally liable for failing to train the officer properly. Garcia's lawyers wrote in the complaint that he was clearly submitting to being arrested when Aguirre struck the unarmed man six times with his baton to "let out his frustration." Video footage from the Cathedral City Police Department shows Officer Jeffrey Aguirre hitting a suspect with a baton during their arrest on Nov. 21, 2020 . "It's sad, frankly, that a police officer would engage in this type of conduct for a person that was surrendering," Christian Contreras, one of Garcia's attorneys, said in an interview Tuesday. "And it's all on video. Obviously, the video speaks for itself, but there's clearly excessive force in this case." Aguirre was investigated by his department for striking the unarmed man multiple times, ultimately resulting in a broken ankle, when he posed no apparent threat and was in the process of being arrested. Records of the investigation obtained by The Desert Sun show that several officers involved in the short pursuit, and even Aguirre himself, ultimately said Garcia could have been arrested without being beaten. The city's police department, and City Manager Charlie McClendon, said that Aguirre was suspended and ultimately left the department. Neither would say whether he resigned or was fired. Department documents showed that Aguirre's actions were officially ruled not justified. Jose Lenor Garcia can be seen raising his hands out of his car after a pursuit with Cathedral City police officers on Nov. 21, 2020. One officer attempted to pull Garcia over at around 3 a.m. after he failed to yield near a convenience store on Avenida Maravilla and Ramon Road. But when the officer got out of his vehicle to approach, Garcia sped off. Several officers then pursued him through residential streets before he stopped at a home that later was found to belong to his parents. He again sped off and police used a spike strip to deflate his tires. Aguirre also drove over the spike strip and his tires were deflated. He swerved into the oncoming lane to avoid hitting another patrol car, when Garcia U-turned and drove into his patrol vehicle. No officers were injured during the pursuit. Footage shows one officer pull Garcia from the car and tell him to get on the ground. Aguirre can be seen jumping over the hood of another patrol car as Garcia is pulled out, getting out a baton and hitting the man on the ground repeatedly. Officer Jeffrey Aguirre jumped over the hood of Jose Lenor Garcia's car while he was being arrested on Nov. 21, 2020 and struck him with a baton about five times. A year and a half after the incident, in May 2022 the Riverside County District Attorney's Office filed five felony charges against Garcia. The DA's office did not say why that much time passed before filing charges. Four of the charges were dismissed at a preliminary hearing last month: two counts each of assault with a deadly weapon and resisting arrest. Garcia is now charged with only evading arrest. John Hall, a spokesperson for the DA's office, confirmed that his office dropped the four charges before the hearing, but did not say why. Details of the beating and the body cam footage largely remained out of the public eye until a video was posted online and began going viral in late 2022, about two years after the confrontation. McClendon told The Desert Sun that the department had reported it to the California Department of Justice, according to use of force laws, a few months after it happened. A former Cathedral City police officer, Cladiu Murzea, had gotten the video through a public records request and posted it online, later saying he believed the confrontation was not adequately being investigated by the department. The department made no attempt to report the confrontation to the public until recieving inquiries from the media after the video was posted online. Murzea also had some significant workplace conflict brewing at the time. He was criminally charged with stealing fentanyl from a crime scene and overdosing on it in the department's gym while on duty. He survived, and described the overdose as a suicide attempt, alleging he was harassed by his coworkers and bosses. Murzea pleaded guilty last year to two felony counts for making threats and one misdemeanor for destroying evidence related to the fentanyl theft. He was granted probation and ordered to seek treatment. His felony convictions mean he's barred from serving as a police officer. Aguirre has not been charged with any crime for the beating of Garcia. Hall, the DA's office spokesperson, said prosecutors determined Aguirre did not commit a crime. 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: Cathedral City police sued over beating that broke man's ankle BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WKRN) A man wanted after fleeing from a deputy last week was taken into custody in a Bowling Green apartment Wednesday morning, according to authorities. The Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force said its detectives, with some help from the Warren County Sheriffs Office and Kentucky State Police (KSP), obtained a search warrant for a home in the 200 block of Walnut Creek Court in Bowling Green. After executing the search warrant at approximately 10:20 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15, detectives and deputies said they found and seized roughly 18 pounds of crystal (Mexican) meth; 6,000 fentanyl tablets; 11 pounds of cocaine; three pounds of marijuana, 0.7 pounds of ecstasy; four handguns, one of which was stolen from Logan County; and more than $300,000 in cash. (Courtesy: Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force) According to officials, the accused had 14 prior felony drug trafficking charges and was believed to be in the South-Central Kentucky or Northern Tennessee area, possibly armed. Then, on Wednesday, Feb. 21, the drug task force announced detectives arrested 39-year-old Josha Obadiah Duncan of Bowling Green, around 10:30 a.m. at an apartment in the Traditions Subdivision, with the assistance of the KSP interdiction team. Authorities said Duncan was wanted after he fled from a deputy last Thursday, adding that they found a large quantity of illegal drugs in his home while executing last weeks search warrant. Justice for Amber billboard going up in Kentucky Officials reported Duncan was being held without bond in the Warren County Regional Jail for the following charges: Two counts of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (enhancement, Class B felony) Aggravated trafficking in fentanyl (Class B felony) Trafficking in marijuana (Class D felony) First-degree fleeing and evading law enforcement (Class D felony) Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon (Class D felony) Receiving stolen property (handgun) (Class D felony) For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Police in New York City are warning departments across the country to check for any victims of a man suspected in a killing in that city, as well as the stabbing of two women in Arizona, this month. Raad Noan Almansoori, 26, is a suspect in the killing of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38, who was found dead next to a broken iron in her room at the SoHo 54 Hotel in Manhattan on Feb. 8, New York Police Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny said. He was arrested in Scottsdale, Arizona, for allegedly driving a stolen vehicle. He is accused of stabbing two women in that state: a woman who was carjacked and stabbed in Phoenix and a McDonalds worker stabbed the next day in Surprise, police said. Kenny said that after being arrested in Arizona, Almansoori told police there that he was wanted in a New York City killing. homicide detectives nypd (NYPD via Facebook) While in the custody of Arizona law enforcement, he informs them that he is wanted for a homicide in New York City, and tells the cops that they should Google SoHo 54 Hotel, Kenny said at a Tuesday news conference. Almansoori also told Arizona cops that he hurt three additional girls in Florida, Kenny said. In two of the incidents that police know about, the victims were escorts, Kenny said. On Feb. 6, two days before Oleas-Arancibia was found dead at the hotel, Almansoori had visited an escort in Manhattan, Kenny said. Police have contacted that woman. Almansoori had been arrested in April 2023 in Florida on a charge of kidnapping and sexual assault, and he was free after posting bail in September, Kenny said. The other victims in Arizona, like I said, one is a female working at the McDonalds and one is a female just simply driving in her car that was attacked by this male, he noted. Chief NYPD spokesman Tarik Sheppard said that police wanted to inform communities to report any sighting or contact theyve had with Almansoori. "Anywhere that hes visited, there is potential that there are other victims around the country, and we want to do our due diligence and make sure that we let communities around the country know that they should be aware of who this person is," Sheppard said. In the Manhattan hotel homicide case, police were called to Room 1109 of the SoHo Hotel on Feb. 8 around 10:30 a.m. and found Oleas-Arancibia dead, police said. A broken iron was next to her. The medical examiner ruled the cause of death as blunt-force trauma to the head, Kenny said. "In our homicide, it seems there was a dispute over the time he was allowed to stay in the room, and thats what caused the outburst, which caused the attack," Kenny said. In Arizona on Saturday, Almansoori carjacked and stabbed a woman in Phoenix, and on Sunday in the nearby city of Surprise he dragged a McDonalds employee into a womens restroom at the restaurant and stabbed her several times, Kenny said. Both of those victims survived. Police in Surprise said that Almansoori is being held without bond. Surprise police said that he is charged with attempted homicide, aggravated assault and theft of means for acts in that city, as well as with robbery, assault, theft and criminal damage for crimes committed in Phoenix. Online court records in Maricopa County, Arizona, did not appear to show criminal cases related to the allegations in Phoenix and Surprise as of Tuesday night. An attorney listed as representing Almansoori in past Arizona cases did not immediately respond to a request for comment, and it was not clear if Almansoori had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. The NYPD is also reaching out to the FBI and its "violent criminal apprehension program," which has a large database of violent crimes, to see if there may be other victims across the country, Kenny said. Kenny said that police believe Almansoori has or had residences in Florida, Texas and Arizona, and that he has family in Arizona. Police believe Almansoori flew from Florida to New York City sometime between Jan. 26 and Jan. 29 and then flew from Newark to Arizona on Feb. 12, Kenny said. New York officials will seek to have Almansoori extradited to New York, and prosecutors with the Manhattan District Attorney's Office are in contact with officials in Arizona in the homicide case, Kenny said. New York police said that Almansoori had no prior history of arrests in New York, but had an extensive record of arrests outside of the state. The majority of his arrests involve domestic violence and assault, Kenny said. In the April 2023 arrest in Florida, it seems that one involved more alcohol, that he was drinking with the escort and then wouldnt let her leave, so thats where the kidnapping came in, he said. But as far as the pattern goes, thats why were reaching out to the FBI for their assistance, he said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com [Source] A now-elusive, mango-flavored ice cream that mimics the fruits look and comes in sturdy packaging has become the latest craze on TikTok, with users documenting their quests to find and finally taste it. About the ice cream: Hailing from China, the frozen treat, known as Propitious Mango ice cream, has reportedly been sold in Asian supermarkets across the U.S. for months but has only gone viral relatively recently. Described by customers as a mango-flavored, sorbet-like ice cream encased in a white chocolate shell, its appearance mimics that of the tropical fruit, adding to its aesthetic appeal. With the treat becoming more elusive, trying one has somewhat become a matter of luck. Incidentally, the word propitious from its name also means favorable or auspicious, making finding it feel even more special. Trending on NextShark: 240-million-year-old 'Chinese dragon' fossil discovered in southern China What people are saying: Videos of people trying out the treat which apparently also comes in peach flavor have gone viral on TikTok. User @laurielikesfood, who found them in a random Asian grocery shop in New York after months of searching, rated the mango ice cream 8.5 and the peach 9 out of 10, saying she liked the latter more because it tasted more peachy than a real peach. Others specifically praised the mango ice cream for its creaminess and texture, with some likening it to mango boba milk tea and mango pancakes. TikTok user @bynessa_, who is based in Sydney, said it has a super-strong flavor that isnt too sweet and reminds her of mango sorbet but creamier. Trending on NextShark: Watch: Hearts melt as senior Singapore couple reunite with daughter, grandkids for Lunar New Year Where to get it: Propitious Mango ice cream has reportedly been spotted in various Asian stores and supermarkets across the U.S., including 99 Ranch Market, San Bruno Supermarket in San Francisco and Rong Cheng Inc. in Brooklyn. In Canada, it has been seen in T&T Supermarkets, while Instagram user @bynessa said she found hers in Sydneys Gong Grocer. Prices of the treat vary, with some stores reportedly offering individual servings for around $3.29 and sets for about $11.99. Trending on NextShark: Yao Mings 13-year-old daughter towers in height in viral photos Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! 'Maniac' who brutally murdered sex worker with iron in NYC hotel arrested in Arizona: police Police in Arizona have arrested a "maniac" wanted for the brutal death of a sex worker inside a New York City hotel earlier this month where he allegedly beat her with an iron and strangled her before leaving the scene in the victims leggings. Raad Almansoori, 26, is wanted by the NYPD for the horrific killing of 38-year-old Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, a mother of two who was found dead inside the SoHo 54 Hotel on Watts Street on Feb. 8. Oleas-Arancibias body was on the floor under a blanket and bits of plastic were found embedded in her skull, police said. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide due to blunt force trauma. Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, left, and Raad Almansoori, center and right. Almansoori is accused of killing Oleas-Arancibia with an iron. FLORIDA WOMAN WHO KEPT BABY AFTER ALLEGED LYFT DRIVER SEX ATTACK SAYS 'BLESSING' CAME FROM 'DARKEST HOUR' The NYPD launched a search for the suspect who they say was seen leaving the scene wearing the same tight leggings Oleas-Arancibia had on when she checked into the hotel the day before. A pair of blood-splattered men's pants were found alongside Oleas-Arancibia's body, police say. Almansoori was nabbed in a stolen car on Sunday by police who say they were chasing him for kidnapping a female McDonalds worker whom he dragged into the ladies' restroom, held her against her will and stabbed her several times. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP He carjacked another woman a few days earlier in Phoenix and stabbed her. Both victims in Arizona survived. Almansoori was arrested on a slew of charges in Arizona including attempted homicide, robbery and two assault charges as a list of his previous alleged crimes comes to light. Police say he kidnapped another sex worker and sexually assaulted her in Sumter County, Florida, in 2023 but was released after posting bail in September. Almansoori also has an outstanding warrant in Texas. Raad Almansoori who police say is wearing Denisse Oleas-Arancibia's leggings after she was killed NYC SEX WORKERS RAMPANT IN OPEN-AIR PROSTITUTION MARKET AMID LAX ENFORCEMENT When he was taken into custody in Arizona he admitted to the McDonalds attack and the knife incident in Phoenix. He also told police to "Google the SoHo 54 hotel." Police posted a mugshot of Almansoori showing him with injuries to his nose. NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Tarik Sheppard said at a Tuesday press briefing that the force is "glad that Arizona got this maniac off the streets." NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at that news conference that police in New York are looking to extradite Almansoori to the Big Apple for the death of Oleas-Arancibia. Kenny said Almansoori was out on bail when Oleas-Arancibia was attacked and has an "extensive out-of-state arrest history." Kenny said that Almansoori told Arizona police that he hurt "three additional girls" in Florida. Denisse Oleas-Arancibia who was killed two weeks ago in a New York City hotel Kenny said Almansoori and Oleas-Arancibia got into an argument over the time he was allowed to stay in the room, "and that's what caused the outburst which caused the attack." She did not have a criminal record, Kenny said. Almansoori also visited an escort the night before the attack on Oleas-Arancibia, Kenny said. CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Oleas-Arancibia came to the United States five years ago with her 18-year-old son while she left her other son behind. Edwin Cevallos, Oleas-Arancibias son, told the New York Post that his mother had been acting nervous and worried in the days leading up to her death. She was "always working for us to give us the best life in this country," Cevallos said. Original article source: 'Maniac' who brutally murdered sex worker with iron in NYC hotel arrested in Arizona: police Mansfield City Council liked what it heard Tuesday night about the 2024 budget. So much so, in fact, that members approved the final budget on the first reading. It had been scheduled for three readings. The new administration includes Mayor Jodie Perry and Finance Director Kelly Blankenship. They laid out their plans during a finance committee meeting before the regular session. "There hasn't been significant changes as far as the underlying expenses for the city since council approved it (temporary budget) in December," Perry said. The final budget amounts to $169,308,600. Jodie Perry Perry described "small things" related to new elected officials. Dave Remy had been filling the roles of both safety-service director and public works director, for example. Police Chief Keith Porch will take over as safety-service director at the end of the month, and Louis Andres is the public works director. Budget changes included one-time capital costs "We really focused on using the carryover balance on one-time capital costs," Perry said. "Director Blankenship and I have spent a lot of time talking about our philosophy and how we want to approach this in the future." Perry said $900,000 was left unallocated, keeping with past practices of having about $1 million in reserve. "Just like your home budget, things pop up," Perry said. "The budget is our guide for spending, it's our guide for income, but things change mid-year. We can come back to you." She said most of the original capital requests for water, sewer and streets were kept the same. "Growth, infrastructure and safety, those are the priorities. That's where we're heading," Perry said. "A few things under growth, we added money so that we can have a consultant for a comprehensive plan for the city of Mansfield. "A comprehensive plan is a long process, charting a course for the city for at least 10 years. We're talking about land use, we're talking about further development." Perry said the final budget contains extra money for Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport. "There's the potential for a rather large FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) grant coming in 2025, 2026," she said. "We need to do some design work for that grant to be ready." More: Subway restaurant at Mansfield Lahm torn down to make way for Sky Club restaurant Administrators also chose to allocate an additional $100,000 to the city parks, which was getting $1.1 million in funding from the P.R.I.D.E. tax. "It is the first time the general fund has contributed to the parks since at least (the city was in) fiscal emergency," Perry said. The budget also includes $100,000 for water main replacement, a pressing need for the city. Public safety accounts for $32 million of 2024 budget Of the total budget, $32,320,424 will go to the safety forces. City police will receive an additional $341,000 for three cruisers, an unmarked vehicle, a Breathalyzer and S.W.A.T. needs. "This is one of the biggest chunks we're adding in here," Perry said. "They have more significant capital needs than that." Money also will be allocated to upgrade the fire department to have a Multi-Agency Radio Communication System. Kelly Blankenship Blankenship said most cities consider a five-year average for income tax when estimating revenue. "We haven't done that because of the COVID year and how that was an anomaly," she said. "We chose to go with the two-year average and leave the estimated revenue as it was in the temporary budget." Council members praise Perry, Blankenship Before council voted 8-0 to approve the budget on the first reading, several members praised the new administration. "It is a refreshing change to see the mayor sitting there, addressing us and telling us what the changes are, not making us dig for ourselves," Councilwoman Stephanie Zader said. "We are a team. I think it's important that we work together." Zader pointed out that she frequently asked pointed questions of the previous administration. She is holding off for now. "Let's give them the leeway to do their jobs," Zader said of the new administration. "In six months, I'll ask the hard questions if I need to." Councilman David Falquette asked his colleagues if there was any more "onion peeling" they needed to do before he proposed voting for the budget on its first reading. "We can stand in the way of that, or we can be part of it," Zader said. "It's a new team." Councilman El Akuchie agreed. "Being proactive is so refreshing," he said. "We can see where we're going." mcaudill@gannett.com 419-521-7219 X: @MarkCau32059251 This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Mansfield OH City Council unanimously passes 2024 budget GHENT, WV (WVNS) Whether you believe in it or not, Bigfoot is the name of a cryptid that many people recognize. However Bigfoot is not the only term used to refer to the creature. The wild and not-so-wonderful cryptids of West Virginia Some commonly recognized names for the supernatural creature include Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Yeti, and Skunk Ape, which is a version of bigfoot reportedly found in Florida, and the name comes from the creatures supposed smell. According to the book The United States of Cryptids: A Tour of American Myths and Monsters by J.W. Ocker on page 247, the name of the cryptid is rarely Bigfoot even though many states have had a reported Bigfoot sighting. The creatures name varies, not only from across the United States but also across the world. A few names include: the Momo in Missouri, a shortened version of Missouri Monster, Ohio has the Ohio Grassman, New Hampshires version are wood devils, Alabama has the White Thang, the Honey Island Swamp Monster in Louisiana, Knobby in North Carolina, Sasquatch around the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, and the Himalayas refer to it as the Yeti or the Abominable Snowman. Which West Virginia counties have the most Bigfoot sightings? No matter what version of the name people choose to call Bigfoot, the various versions tend to agree on a few details such as it being a large, hairy, ape-like, humanoid creature. While these might only be a few of the names that refer to the large, hairy, human-like cryptids, the name variations come from how they came to be known as Bigfoot. Journalist Andrew Genzoli reported that loggers had found massive human footprints in Bluff Creek, California in 1958. Because the only detail about what made the footprints were their size, they called the creature Bigfoot. Had a different detail been discovered about the cryptid, the term Bigfoot may not have become as widely known as it is today. These are not the only states to have reported Bigfoot sightings either. The Fouke Monster had its first reported sightings in 1971, and was a bit different than some other bigfoot sightings as the cryptid reportedly left scratches on one of the witnesses. The Fouke Monsters story was also turned into a movie The Legend of Boggy Creek, that was released in 1972 and made an estimated $25 million. One of West Virginias most unusual cryptids Oregon might not be the top state when it comes to Bigfoot sightings, however it does have something that makes it unique. The state has its very own Bigfoot trap. Built in 1974 by the (now nonexistent) North American Wildlife Research Team (NAWRT), the Bigfoot trap is around 10 feet by ten feet with a mesh door, and is secured with metal bands and anchored with telephone poles. Although Bigfoot was never caught, the trap remains. With the 1958 sightings and the addition of the term Bigfoot, the popularity of the cryptid rose until it became one of the most well-known types of cryptid, no matter the exact name. From foot casts, to photos, to videos, Bigfoots fame and popularity rose after the alleged sighting as people became increasingly interested in the cryptid and cryptozoology as a whole. So, next time you are out int the woods, make sure to keep an eye out for the many feet of Bigfoot. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. On Monday, Canada announced its plans to send over 800 drones to Ukraine, with deployment expected to begin as soon as this spring. According to a statement from the Department of National Defense, drones have become a crucial capability for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. The drones are vital for surveillance and intelligence operations, and for transporting supplies such as munitions. Ukraine to Receive 800 SkyRanger R70 Drones From Canada The price will exceed $70 million and is included in a previously disclosed $370 million military aid package for Ukraine. Teledyne manufactures the SkyRanger R70 multi-mission Unmanned Aerial Systems in Waterloo, Ontario. Per ABC News, the announcement is made just before the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Canada has generously provided Ukraine with 100 high-resolution drone cameras and has committed $1.8 billion in military aid over the last two years. Defense Minister Bill Blair mentioned that Kyiv has emphasized the urgent need for additional drones, which are now an important tool for the Ukrainian forces. He mentioned that the specific drones given to Ukraine, Teledyne's SkyRanger R70 multi-mission Unmanned Aerial Systems, provide a utility that greatly boosts their capabilities, especially with its capacity to detect and gather valuable information at certain altitudes to aid in defending their country. Last week, Blair announced that Canada would be providing an extra $60 million to support Ukraine's allies in supplying F-16 fighter jets to their military and training Ukrainian pilots. He recently came back from a series of meetings in Europe where Ukraine was a major focus, such as the U.S.-led Ukraine Defence Contract Group, NATO defense ministers, and the Munich Security Conference. During Monday's press conference, Blair also mentioned that Canada is in the process of sending additional ammunition to Ukraine. He claimed that Canada had exhausted all available resources, including using the supplies of the Canadian Armed Forces. Read Also: Putin Ally Warns of Nuclear Armageddon if Russia Forced to Relinquish Ukrainian Territories Ukraine Shoots Down 23 Russian Drones According to the Ukrainian military, Russia sent out 23 drones towards Ukraine overnight, but all of them were taken down by air defenses. Due to combat operations, all 23 drones were shot down in various regions, according to the military on the Telegram messaging app. Ukraine's prime minister on Tuesday called for the European Union and Japan to implement new economic sanctions on Russia following the passing of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Following the death of Alexei Navalny in a remote penal colony in Russia, EU nations like Germany, Lithuania, and Sweden pushed for new sanctions, while US President Joe Biden cautioned Moscow about potential consequences. According to a report from a US media outlet on Monday, the United States is ready to provide long-range tactical missiles to Ukraine pending approval of a new funding package by Congress. According to sources who chose to remain anonymous, the administration was prepared to send a version of the missiles - referred to as Atacms (army tactical missile systems) - if a new $60 billion aid package, which has been delayed by congressional Republicans, is passed by the Senate. The report coincided with Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, mentioning that Russia was taking advantage of aid delays to Ukraine. He spoke on Monday after touring the frontline in Kupiansk, an area reclaimed by Ukraine in 2022, but where Russian forces have been operating in recent months. Related Article: US Military Faces Budget Crisis as Funds Diverted to Ukraine Reach Critical Levels Brides.com predicts that 2024 will be the year of the proposal as engagements tick back up after a pandemic-driven slowdown. Meanwhile, support for marriage has found new grist in recent books, including sociologist Brad Wilcoxs Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families and Save Civilization and economist Melissa Kearneys The Two-Parent Privilege. Kearneys book was hailed by economist Tyler Cowen as possibly the most important economics and policy book of this year. This is not because it treads new ground but because, as author Kay Hymowitz writes, it breaks the supposed taboo about an honest accounting of family decline. These developments are good news for the marriage promotion movement, which for decades has claimed that marriage supports childrens well-being and combats poverty. The movement dates back at least to the U.S. Department of Labors Moynihan Report of 1965, which argued that family structure aggravated Black poverty. Forty years after the Moynihan Report, George W. Bush-era programs such as the Healthy Marriage Initiative sought to enlist churches and other community groups in an effort to channel childbearing back into marriage. These initiatives continue today, with the federally subsidized Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood programs. Still, nearly 30% of U.S. children live in single-parent homes today, compared with 10% in 1965. We are law professors who have written extensively about family structure and poverty. We, and others, have found that there is almost no evidence that federal programs that promote marriage have made a difference in encouraging two-parent households. Thats in large part because they forgo effective solutions that directly address poverty for measures that embrace the culture wars. Having a parent who has a college degree makes kids less likely to live in poverty than having parents who are married. Mayur Kakade/Moment Collection via Getty Images Marriage and social class Todays marriage promoters claim that marriage should not be just for elites. The emergence of marriage as a marker of class, they believe, is a sign of societal dysfunction. According to census data released in 2021, 9.5% of children living with two parents and 7.5% with married parents lived below the poverty level, compared with 31.7% of children living with a single parent. Kearneys argument comes down to: 1 + 1 = 2. Two parents have more resources, including money and time to spend with children, than one. She marshals extensive research designed to show that children from married couple families are more likely to graduate from high school, complete college and earn higher incomes as adults than the children of single parents. It is undoubtedly true that two parents that is, two nonviolent parents with reliable incomes and cooperative behavior have more resources for their children than one parent who has to work two jobs to pay the rent. However, this equation does not address causation. In other words, parents who have stable incomes and behaviors are more likely to stay together than parents who dont. Ethnographic studies indicate, for example, that the most common reasons unmarried women are no longer with the fathers of their children are the mens violent behavior, infidelity and substance abuse. Moreover, income volatility disproportionately affects parents who dont go to college. So while they may have more money to invest in children together than apart, when one of these parents experiences a substantial drop in income, the other parent may have to decide whether to support the partner or the children on what is often a meager income. The impact of having single parents also plays out differently by race and class. As sociologist and researcher Christina Cross explains, Living apart from a biological parent does not carry the same cost for Black youths as for their white peers, and being raised in a two-parent family is not equally beneficial. For example, Cross found that living in a single-mother family is less likely to affect high school completion rates for Black children than for white children. Also, Black families tend to be more embedded in extended family than white families, and this additional support system may help protect children from negative outcomes associated with single-parent households. Making men more marriageable Kearney, to her credit, does note that economic insecurity largely explains what is happening to working-class families, and that no parent should have to tolerate violence or substance abuse. But she doubles down on the need to restore a norm of two-parent families. Many of her policy prescriptions are sensible. She advocates for better opportunities for low-income men to make them, in the words of sociologist William Julius Wilson, marriageable. Such policies would include wage subsidies to improve their job opportunities, investment in community colleges that provide skills training, and the removal of questions about criminal histories from job applications, so that candidates who have previously been incarcerated are not immediately disqualified. A new marriage model What marriage promotion efforts overlook, however, are the underlying changes in what marriage has become both legally and practically. The new marriage model rests on three premises. The first is a moral command: Have sex if you want to, but dont have children until you are ready. While the shotgun marriage once served as the primary response to unplanned pregnancy, such marriages today often derail education and careers and are more likely to result in divorce than other marriages. Research shows that lower-income womens pregnancies are much more likely to be unplanned. The second is the ability to pick a partner who will support you and assume joint responsibility for parenting. As women have attained more economic independence, they are less in need of men to raise children, particularly if their partners are insensitive or abusive. With healthy relationships, couples pick partners based on trust, commitment and equal respect. This is more difficult to do in communities with high rates of incarceration and few opportunities for stable employment. And the third is economic and behavioral stability. Instability undermines even committed unions. Parents who wait until they find the right partner and have stable lives bring a lot more to parenting, whether they marry or not. We believe that creating opportunities for low-income parents to reach this middle-class model is likely to be the most effective marriage promotion policy. Economic support is key In relationships that fall outside of these premises, 1 + 1 often becomes 1 + -1, which equals 0. Being committed to a partner who cant pay speeding tickets, runs up credit card bills, comes home drunk or cant be relied on to pick up the children after school is not a recipe for success. Economic principles suggest that businesses with more volatile income streams need a stronger capital base to withstand the downturns. Working-class couples who face economic insecurity see commitment as similarly misguided; without a capital base, a downturn for one partner can wipe out the other. The Biden administrations child tax credit expansion included in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 helped cut the child poverty rate after accounting for government assistance to a record low that year. It did more to address child poverty than marriage promotion efforts have ever done. Researchers have described such income-support policies as the ultimate multipurpose policy instrument. They improve the economic circumstances of single-parent families and, in doing so, may also provide greater support for two-parent relationships. Policymakers know how to solve child poverty and these measures are far more effective than efforts to put two married parents in every household. The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Martha's Rule is named for Martha Mills, who died aged 13 after doctors failed to heed her parents' concerns Doctors will be forced to take notes of parents instincts about how their children are faring in hospital under Marthas Rule, NHS leaders will announce today. Under the measures, medics will also be obliged to accept any request for a second opinion if relatives believe a patients condition is worsening. Clinical staff will be told to formally record daily insights and information about a patients health given by parents and families. Medics will be told they must take account of changes in behaviour or condition as noted by those who know the patient best. The new guidance, which is being introduced to more than 100 NHS sites across the country from April, also gives families the right to a second opinion from an independent team of doctors in cases where a condition is deteriorating. It is named after Martha Mills, who died in 2021, aged 13, after doctors at Kings College Hospital in London missed signs of sepsis, having failed to heed her parents warnings that their childs condition was rapidly deteriorating. Anyone concerned can now act Victoria Atkins, the Health Secretary, says the changes aim to ensure that doctors listen to families and do not miss vital warnings. Writing for the Telegraph, she says: No parent should have to go through what they have been through. As a mother or father, you know when something isnt right with your child. Marthas Rule recognises that instinct and allows anyone concerned to act. Ms Atkins says the NHS must not be blind to its failings, adding that the changes are a step towards ensuring no family has to endure the heart-rending loss of a loved one for want of a second opinion. Ms Atkins says the NHS must not be blind to its own failings - JEFF GILBERT/JEFF GILBERT Merope Mills and Paul Laity, Marthas parents who campaigned for the changes, said the rule would mean their childs death was not entirely in vain. They said: We believe Marthas Rule will save lives. In cases of deterioration, families and carers by the bedside can be aware of changes busy clinicians cant; their knowledge should be recognised as a resource. We also look to Marthas Rule to alter medical culture: to give patients a little more power, to encourage listening on the part of medical professionals, and to normalise the idea that even the grandest of doctors should welcome being challenged. Care team on call 24/7 Families seeking a second opinion for their loved ones care will have access to a critical-care team for a rapid review 24 hours a day. The escalation service will also be advertised throughout hospitals. Under the move, an urgent clinical review would be carried out by a different team in the hospital if a patients condition was worsening rapidly and they or their family felt they were not getting the care needed. At least 100 NHS trusts are expected to bring in the rule, with the programme evaluated throughout this year and next. The plan is to then extend Marthas Rule to all acute hospitals, subject to Government funding. Merope Mills said the rule would mean their childs death was not entirely in vain. A coroner ruled that Martha would most likely have survived if doctors had identified the warning signs of her rapidly deteriorating condition and transferred her to intensive care earlier. Marthas parents repeatedly raised concerns about her health with medics, only to be brushed aside. They urged all NHS staff to listen to families, saying that this meant changing the culture in parts of the health service. They said: We call on all NHS clinicians to back the initiative: we know that the large majority do listen, are open with patients and never complacent but Marthas doctors worked in a different culture, so some situations need to change. Our daughter was quite something: fun and determined, with a vast appetite for life and so many plans and ambitions well never know what she would have achieved with all her talents. Hers was a preventable death but Marthas Rule will mean that she didnt die completely in vain. Missed opportunities in Marthas death Martha was being looked after at Kings after suffering a pancreatic injury following a fall from her bike while on a family holiday in Wales. An inquest heard there were several missed opportunities to refer Martha to intensive care. At one point, Martha began to bleed heavily through a tube inserted into her upper arm and through a drainage tube. She also developed a rash and her mother voiced concerns to staff that Martha would go into septic shock over a bank holiday weekend. The trust, which is a specialist national referral centre for children with pancreatic problems, has since apologised for mistakes in Marthas care. One of the trusts intensive care doctors told the inquest into Marthas death he would 100 per cent have admitted her if he had seen her. Ms Atkins said: I have read Meropes heart-wrenching account of the poor care Martha received, how she was ignored and how the many opportunities to save Marthas life were missed. I want to see Marthas Rule provide patients with peace of mind. Amanda Pritchard, the chief executive of the NHS, said Marthas Rule had the potential to save many lives in the future. She said: Hearing about the heartbreaking loss of Martha and the experiences of her family has had a major impact for people right across the country, with parents, patients and NHS staff welcoming her parents call for a simple process to escalate concerns when they can see a loved ones condition worsening. Rory Deighton, the director of the NHS Confederations acute network, welcomed the move and said it was right for the NHS to learn lessons from cases such as these and to take steps to try to prevent avoidable deaths. But he said questions remained about what resources hospitals would receive to deliver the new scheme. Introducing a 24/7 clinical review process will have implementation costs, and [hospital] leaders will be concerned if they are just being expected to provide the additional service without any extra resources, he said. The first stage of the rollout, to sites with existing critical care outreach, will be funded with 10million to support implementation. 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. Marvel will reportedly retitle the forthcoming Avengers movie following Jonathan Majors assault conviction. Majors, 34, previously played Kang the Conqueror in 2023s Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and the streaming series Loki. The next instalment in the multi-billion-dollar grossing Avengers franchise was set to be titled: Avengers: The Kang Dynasty. However, last December, Majors was found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend. He was convicted on one count of third-degree assault and one count of harassment, but acquitted him of another count of assault and one aggravated harassment count. In the wake of the conviction, Marvel dropped Majors. Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter, the studio has confirmed they are rewriting and will retitle the next Avengers film, which is due to be released in May 2026. Sources also told the publication that the studio was moving to minimize the character even before Majors conviction after Quantumania underperformed at the box office. Jonathan Majors as Kang in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) (MCU) It has not yet been announced what the films new title will be. The Independent has contacted Marvel for comment. The news comes during a period of reorganisation for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The studio recently announced the cast for their upcoming reboot of the Fantastic Four, which will bring those characters into the MCU for the first time. The Last of Uss Pedro Pascal will star as Reed Richards/Mr Fantastic, The Bears Ebon Moss-Bachrach has been cast as Ben Grimm/The Thing, Vanessa Kirby will portray Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman and Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things) will play Johnny Storm/The Human Torch. Victor von Doom, the franchises supervillain, has yet to be cast. Julian McMahon played the antagonist in the 2005 movie. Based on characters created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby for Marvel Comics, the first movie version featured Ioan Gruffudd as Reed, Michael Chiklis as Ben, Jessica Alba as Sue and Chris Evans as Johnny. Marvel re-acquired the rights to the Fantastic Four back in 2019 when the company merged with Fox. Fantastic Four is scheduled to release in cinemas on 25 July 2025. As for Majors, the actor was dropped by his management team when news of the allegations against him first broke, while the US Army pulled a number of advertisements featuring the actor from circulation. He was also reportedly dropped from a forthcoming adaptation of the Walter Mosley novel The Man in My Basement. Another forthcoming Majors project, Magazine Dreams, has been removed from Walt Disney Studios release calendar. The national domestic abuse helpline offers support for women on 0808 2000 247, or you can visit the Refuge website. There is a dedicated mens advice line on 0808 8010 327. Those in the US can call the domestic violence hotline on 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Other international helplines can be found via www.befrienders.org Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty plans to host a felony-level expungement clinic next week to assist those with eligible convictions with sealing their court records. The clinic will take place Feb. 28 from noon to 8 p.m. at Urban League Twin Cities, 2100 Plymouth Av. N., Minneapolis. The local nonprofit and other organizations such as the Minneapolis NAACP are working with Moriarty's office to host the event. Only those with felony convictions originating from Hennepin County are eligible for the clinic, which Moriarty said is designed to "expedite" the expungement process. "This prosecutor-initiated expungement service demonstrates a commitment to facilitating a fresh start for those seeking to rebuild their lives," Moriarty said in a statement. "When people commit crimes, it is important they are held accountable. But it is equally important that after that accountability, they have an opportunity to move beyond their past," Moriarty said in a statement. "Expungement provides an incentive for people to invest in themselves and their community." When Minnesota last year legalized adult-use recreational marijuana, it included the automatic expungement of nonviolent, low-level cannabis crimes. Some felony marijuana-related records are eligible for expungement if they apply to have their case considered by a new state expungement board. Expunged records are sealed from the general public but still accessible or re-opened for court-related matters and certain background checks for jobs in education, human services and criminal justice agencies. Minnesota has a long history with expungement dating back to at least 1977. In 2015, the state passed legislation to make it easier to expunge certain crimes, but typically the process is lengthy and costly. Last year, the Minnesota Legislature included expungement with marijuana legalization due to barriers in obtaining work and housing with convictions on their records. A Massachusetts contractor with a history of fall-related safety violations is facing thousands of dollars in fines after exposing workers to potentially fatal falls. Brothers Construction Services Inc. which also operates as Brothers Construction and Roofing and Brothers Roofing is facing $306,229 in fines after an OSHA investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor said. OSHA opened an investigation into a Framingham-based construction company at a Lexington Avenue worksite on August. 17, 2023, after a complaint that workers on the roof of a residential property were not using fall protection, the U.S. Department of Labor said. Inspectors observed multiple OSHA violations specifically that Brothers Construction Services Inc. did not: Provide fall protection for employees exposed to a 20-foot fall hazard. Train employees about fall hazards. Ensure ladders were extended at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface for stability and employees did not carry loads while using ladders. Ensure a ladder jack scaffold that lacked fall protection was erected by a competent person and the ladders supporting the scaffold were properly angled and secured. Have a competent person conduct frequent and regular inspections of the job site to identify and correct hazards. Provide employees with hard hats and eye protection. Provide inspectors with OSHA 300 illness and injury logs within four business hours. At this worksite, OSHA inspectors observed eight workers exposed to falls of up to 20 feet due to lack of fall protection, employee training, an improperly erected scaffold, and failure to have a competent person inspect the job site to identify and correct hazards, said OSHA area director James Mulligan. Brothers Construction Services Inc.s violations left its workers one slip, trip, or misstep away from a potentially fatal incident, Mulligan added OSHA cited Brothers Construction Services Inc. for eight willful, repeat, serious and other-than-serious violations, that resulted in $306,229 in fines. Falls remain the number one killer in construction work, year in and year out. Yet, this employer and too many others repeatedly fail to provide and ensure basic, commonsense, and legally required safeguards for their employees, said Mulligan. Since 2011 Brothers Construction has been cited for similar hazards in worksites in Acton, Arlington, Dedham, Framingham, Holliston, Middleboro, Wareham and Woburn, Massachusetts, and Windham, New Hampshire. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Brothers Constructions has 15 days from the receipt of its citation to comply, request an informal conference with OSHAs area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The full citations issued to Brothers Construction Services can be found here. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Brian Walshe, the Massachusetts man charged with the murder of his real estate executive wife, was sentenced on Tuesday to 37 months behind bars in a separate criminal case involving a scam he orchestrated to sell counterfeit Andy Warhol paintings. Walshe, 49, did not speak on his behalf during the sentencing hearing in Boston federal court, according to NBC Boston. His sentence is set to run concurrent to any state sentence he might face should be convicted of Ana Walshes slaying after a trial later this year. On Tuesday, Walshe was also ordered to pay $475,000 in restitution, with credit for the $95,000 hes already handed over to the government, according to the Department of Justice. Walshe was first charged in the art fraud scheme in 2018. In 2021, he pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraud, possession of converted goods, and unlawful monetary transaction. His scam kicked off in 2016, when a buyer stumbled across two Warhols for salecomplete with authentication stampson eBay, according to the Justice Department. The buyer, believing they were real, arranged to purchase both paintings, purportedly part of the pop artists 1978 Shadows series, for $80,000. The buyer only realized hed been conned after an assistant delivered the paintings, which looked suspiciously new and bore no stamps. When he compared the paintings to the photographs from the eBay listing, they did not look identical, a federal press release explained. The buyer concluded that the paintings he purchased from Walshe were not authentic. The buyer then repeatedly attempted to contact Walshe, who initially did not respond, and then made excuses for the delay in refunding the buyers money. Brian Walshe Hired PI to Tail Wife Before Murder, Prosecutor Says Walshe separately got his mitts on the real Shadow paintings at one point, tricking a friend in South Koreathe rightful ownerinto handing them over by saying that he could get them a good price. Walshe then sold the paintings to a gallery in 2011, according to authorities. They were later sold again and remain unaccounted for. The buyer, not named in the press release, is Los Angeles gallery owner Ron Rivlin, who told The Daily Beast last month that Walshe knows how to play the legal system, he knows how to play everyone and everything. Ive bought over a thousand Warhols and this is the one and only acquisition that got by me, Rivlin said. He was that good. Clever playbook and Oscar-worthy performance. On Tuesday, Rivlin told The Daily Beast in a statement that the measure of justice that Walshe was finally facing for his art fraud pales in comparison to the tragedy of Ana Walshes presumed murder. Brian was arrested on Jan. 18, 2023 in connection with the disappearance of Ana, 39, whod last been seen alive 17 days earlier. The pair had been married for about seven years and had three young sons. The true gravity of the situation lies with the sorrow of three children left orphaned, overshadowing any victory we might claim, Rivlin said Tuesday. Ron Rivlin. Tanya Barcessat Though Anas body has never been found, a police investigation turned up a broken, bloodied knife in the basement of the familys home and unsettling Google searches for, among other things, ways to dispose of a small womans body. Walshe was also captured on surveillance footage making a trip to a hardware store on Jan. 2, where he purchased $450 worth of cleaning supplies in cash, according to court documentswhich noted that Walshe had told police hed just stepped out that day to take his eldest son out for ice cream. In March, he was indicted by a grand jury on a charge of first-degree murder, as well as misleading a police investigation/obstruction of justice and improper conveyance of a human body. He has pleaded not guilty in the case. His next scheduled court appearance in the case is set for March 4, according to WCVB. 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. A Massachusetts man charged with killing his wife was sentenced to a little more than three years in prison in an unrelated case in which he sold fake Andy Warhol paintings, prosecutors said Tuesday. Brian Walshe, 49, was sentenced Tuesday to 37 months, or three years and one month, in what the U.S. Attorneys Office in Boston called a years-long, multi-faceted art fraud scheme. He pleaded guilty in 2021 to one count each of wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraud and unlawful monetary transaction, the U.S. attorneys office said. counterfeit art painting (U.S. Attorney's Office District of Mass.) Walshe in March 2023 was indicted on state counts that include first-degree murder and other charges in connection with the death of his wife Ana Walshe. Ana Walshe was last seen New Years Day of 2023, reportedly at her home in Cohasset, police have said. A criminal complaint alleges that Brian Walshe killed his wife that day and at some point disinterred, removed or conveyed her body or remains. Ana Walshe's body has never been found. The art fraud case dealt with two abstract paintings that Walshe had purported to be authentic Warhol Shadows," which he advertised on eBay in 2016. He eventually sold them, outside of the website, for $80,000, federal prosecutors said. The real Warhol Shadow paintings belonged to the family of a fellow classmate of Walshes who he met when they both attended Carnegie Mellon University in the 1990s, according to court documents. Walshe later told the former classmate that he could sell some of the paintings, and was given the two Warhol pieces along with some others, prosecutors said. Walshe never returned the Warhols, a criminal complaint says. Instead, he sold them to a gallery in 2011, according to prosecutors. The pieces sold to the buyer Walshe met through eBay were not authentic, according to the the U.S. attorneys office. The real Warhol Shadows paintings changed hands and have never been recovered, the office said. Excerpts from Walshes diary at the time he was given the art by the former classmate show that he intended to defraud them all along, prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum. One of the entries refers to that victims family and reads makes it easy for me to do them up, and that the victim and his family can eat it. Another entry refers to selling the Shadows pieces and reads, I will take all the $ then only a taste of everything else, according the sentencing memorandum. The 37-month prison sentence is what prosecutors asked the judge to impose, according to court documents. Walshe's attorneys sought time served and three years of supervised release. Attorneys for Walshe in the federal case did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday night. The state murder case is pending. Walshe has pleaded not guilty in that case. He is being held without bail. Prosecutors have said that shortly before the time Walshe told investigators he had last seen his wife, searches on the Internet included "10 ways to dispose of a dead body if you really need to and how to stop a body from decomposing." Searches the day after she was reported to have disappeared included hacksaw best tool to dismember, can you be charged with murder without a body," those officials have said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Spanish police have confirmed that the body found last week in the coastal town of Villajoyosa belongs to Russian pilot Maxim Kuzminov, who had defected to Ukraine with a Russian Mi-8 helicopter, the New York Times reported on Feb. 20. Details surrounding his stay in Spain remain murky, though it is believed that he resided in a modest apartment, a short walk from the beach. Journalists also noted that Kuzminov's activities in Spain were unclear. He lived in an area "popular among Ukrainian and Russian tourists." The news of Kuzminov's death spread rapidly on Feb. 19, fueled by Russian Telegram channels and media outlets that cited Spanish news sources. Reports indicated that he sustained five to twelve gunshot wounds, and a car believed to be connected to the incident was found nearby burned and abandoned. Read also: Russian pilot linked to helicopter hijack murdered in Spain, branded traitor by Russian official Ukrainian intelligence later confirmed the tragedy of the Russian pilot's death. Ukraine had offered Kuzminov protection, implying he would have been safer had he stayedin Ukraine, noted Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. Further reports from Spanish media suggested a violent end for Kuzminov, who was allegedly shot and subsequently run over by his own vehicle. Europa Press raised questions about the authenticity of Kuzminov's documents, prompting a deeper investigation. El Espanol, drawing on insider information, suggested the involvement of a professional group in Kuzminov's assassination, hinting at a premeditated act with several suspects possibly at play. Read also: Russian defector Kuzminov killed in Spain 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 Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) cited former President Reagan in a pitch for a national security bill in a Wednesday opinion piece. Today, much like in the Washington President Reagan faced, it has become popular in some circles to bet against American resolve and bemoan the global responsibilities that come with global power, McConnell said in the op-ed in the Northern Kentucky Tribune. Loud voices peddle the short-sighted and ahistorical notion that Americas interests do not extend beyond the waters edge, and that abandoning our friends is the price of restoring order at home. McConnell then said he and his colleagues had considered the same responsibilities, and in measuring the costs of America neglecting its leading role, the Senate chose to address the growing threats facing our nation and our closest allies around the globe. The national security bill passed in the Senate will help rebuild and modernize our military, restore our credibility on the world stage, and give the current Commander-in-Chief, as well as the next, more tools to face growing coordination among our adversaries, McConnell said. The Senate voted last week to pass a $95 million emergency defense spending bill that includes $60 billion for Ukraine amid its war with Russia, but House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has indicated it is not going to make it to a vote in the lower chamber. The bills passage in the Senate was also followed by the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. President Biden blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalnys death in Friday remarks. Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea are engaged in an active campaign to undermine the US-led order that has underpinned Western peace and prosperity for almost a century, McConnell continued in his op-ed. From Russias unprovoked invasion of Ukraine to Irans persistent proxy violence against American servicemembers and our installations to growing Chinese aggression against Taiwan and other Indo-Pacific partners, these threats are serious, and they are linked, McConnell said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The legal team of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange began their final UK legal challenge on Tuesday (Feb. 20) to prevent him from being extradited to the United States to face spying charges, arguing that his actions had exposed serious criminal acts by US authorities and that he could face a "flagrant denial of justice" if he would be extradited. The 52-year-old Australian was granted permission to come to court from Belmarsh Prison, but Assange's lead lawyer, Edward Fitzgerald, said that his client was unwell without elaborating further on the state of his health. The Associated Press reported that Assange had been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his website's publication of classified U.S. documents. American prosecutors said that Assange helped former US military intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks later published, putting lives at risk. Read Also: UK Court Approves Extradition of Wikileaks Founder Julian Assange To Face US Trial Protests Against Assange's Extradition Pro-Assange supporters took to the streets in London, Brussels, and Berlin to call on authorities to not extradite Assange from the UK to the US, arguing that the prosecution was politically motivated and that he would not get a fair trial across the pond. "We don't know what to expect, but you're here because the world is watching," Assange's wife Stella told the crowd. "They just cannot get away with this. Julian needs his freedom and we all need the truth." Stella, who married Assange in 2022, said last week that his health has deteriorated during the years of his confinement, warning that he could possibly die if he gets extradited. If the judges rule against Assange, he could ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition - though supporters worry that he could be put on a plane to the US before that happens because the British government has already signed an extradition order. "He is being prosecuted for engaging in ordinary journalistic practice of obtaining and publishing classified information, information that is both true and of obvious and important public interest," Fitzgerald told the court. Assange's chief lawyer also said in a written submission that his client and Wikileaks "were responsible for the exposure of criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale," especially Washington's alleged blunders in Iraq and Afghanistan. Assange's legal team added that he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence would likely be much shorter than that. Related Article: Julian Assange Loses US Extradition Challenge ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) Corning grad Logan McNaney continues to impress at the next level. (Photo Courtesy: umterps.com) Corning grad and standout goalie Logan McNaney was named Big Ten Specialist of the Week, for Maryland lacrosse on Tuesday. The 2022 NCAA Tournament MVP made a season-high 14 saves for the 4th ranked Terrapins, in a 13-12 overtime win against 6th ranked Syracuse. McNaneys effort kept the Orange 6 goals below their season average of 18. Since returning from injury in 2023, the All-American is 3-0, totaling 39 saves, and 6 ground balls, in over 186 minutes of playing time. McNaney and the Terrapins will look to stay perfect, when they take on the 11th ranked Princeton Tigers. The home matchup is set for 2 p.m. on Saturday, and can be found on the Big Ten Network Plus. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. On Tuesday evening, health officials confirmed a sixth case of measles at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, just hours after Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata visited the school to ease fears. Licata assured faculty that the school had been deep-cleaned, air filters had been changed over the holiday weekend, and anyone who has been vaccinated has no need for concern. Buses that take students to and from Manatee Bay also have been cleaned and the air filters have been changed. On Tuesday, more than 200 of the 1,067 Manatee Bay students were absent. Its unclear whether all six children with measles were unvaccinated for the disease that was once thought to be eradicated in the United States. The first reported case last Thursday was a third-grade student at the elementary school. About 11% of the Manatee Bay students roughly 117 students are unvaccinated, using a medical or religious exemption from the mandatory vaccine requirements. On Friday, Broward County Public School District in cooperation with local health officials held a vaccination event at Manatee Bay and on Sunday, a second vaccination event was held off-site for students throughout the same school zone. On Wednesday, the school district is holding another vaccination event from 2 to 6 p.m. for Manatee Bay Elementary students, staff and family. While the health department has not linked the first reported case to travel, infectous disease experts say it is likely he or she was in contact with someone who visited an area where measles is spreading. The U.S. Census shows nearly half the population in Weston is foreign-born and many travel internationally. DOH-Broward is continuously working with all partners including Broward County Public Schools and local hospitals to identify close contacts that are at highest risk of transmission and severe illness, the health department said in a statement. Late Tuesday, the school district shared a Department of Health letter that had been given to parents and guardians of students at Manatee Bay. The letter signed by Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo noted, When measles is detected in a school, it is normally recommended that individuals without history of prior infection or vaccination stay home for up to 21 days. This is the period of time that the virus can be transmitted. The letter also referenced the number of reportedly healthy children who are being kept home from school, and indicated that remote lessons may become necessary. Due to the high immunity rate in the community, as well as the burden on families and educational cost of healthy children missing school, DOH is deferring to parents or guardians to make decisions about school attendance, the letter reads. Broward County School District is prepared to provide continuous learning to all children at Manatee Bay Elementary School whose parents/guardians choose to keep them at home. If someone in your household contracts measles, all members of the household should consider themselves exposed and monitor symptoms. Even before the new South Florida cases, a total of 23 measles cases were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention between Dec. 1 and Jan. 23, according to a recent health alert. In addition, the World Health Organization has been warning of an alarming rise in measles cases throughout Europe. How does measles spread? Measles is highly contagious, spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. If one person has it, about 90% of people around them will also become infected if they are not protected by the vaccine or masks, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The disease can live on a surface or in an airspace for up to two hours where the infected person coughed or sneezed. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected. If you are unvaccinated for measles, your risk is much higher. Certainly if youre in a typical-sized classroom with a patient thats infected, whos coughing or sneezing, then youre at risk, said Dr. Ronald Ford, chief medical officer at Joe DiMaggio Childrens Hospital in Hollywood. If my child gets vaccinated now, how long does it take until he has immunity? The measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, or MMR, is required for students attending public schools in Florida, according to the state Department of Health. The vaccine is two doses, the first dose at 12 to 15 months and the second dose at 4 to 6 years old. One dose of MMR vaccine is 93% effective in preventing measles. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles. But parents increasingly have foregone the vaccine for their children in recent years, and as immunization rates have dropped, vaccine-preventable illness rates are on the rise. If a child gets vaccinated now, he will have some antibodies within just a few days after vaccination. It takes about two weeks to be fully protected, according to the CDC. If I am exposed, can I still transmit it even if I have been vaccinated? You can infect someone only if you have the disease. Transmission after vaccination is extremely rare, especially if you dont have symptoms. You are considered contagious four days before the measles rash appears, and for four days after the rash erupts. Usually the first thing that youre going to see is a fever, and its generally a fever thats pretty high, around 104 degrees, Ford said. Then comes respiratory symptoms such as cough, congestion, sore throat, and then comes red eyes and the rash, which typically appears the fourth or fifth day after symptoms start. Ford said the rash spreads in a unique way. It almost always starts around the hairline and behind the ears and on the face; it spreads to the trunk and then it spreads to the extremities. Not a lot of rashes spread like that. Infectous disease expert Dr. Tina Tan said measles outbreaks, particularly in school settings, are challenging to contain, particularly when theres a population of unvaccinated children. There is a 90% transmission rate in a close contact setting, said Tan, who is president-elect of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. If I am unvaccinated and exposed to measles, is it too late to get a shot? The MMR vaccine can be effective in preventing measles if its given within 72 hours of exposure, said Dr. Ford of Joe DiMaggio. Children typically dont get vaccinated with the first shot until they are older than 1. The second dose comes after age 4. If someone in the household gets infected, a baby can be given a shot as a precaution. The vast majority of moms transfer antibodies of all three measles, mumps, and rubella to fetuses. Once born, antibodies wane really quickly and are almost all gone at 6-12 months of age. If you are traveling to an area where measles outbreaks are occurring and dont know your vaccine history, there is no harm in getting a dose of the MMR vaccine, says Tan, an attending physisian at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital of Chicago. (Article continues after document.) If I was vaccinated, or had measles many decades ago, can I still get the disease? If you have had the MMR vaccine developed in 1971, youre 35 times less likely to get measles than someone with no immunity, according to Katelyn Jetelina, an epidemiologist and author of a health newsletter. But nothing is perfect. A breakthrough case is rare but possible (3 out of 100 fully vaccinated people will get infected), she notes. For the vaccinated who do get infected, the disease does tend to be milder. The CDC says if you received a live measles vaccine in the 1960s you likely still have immunity. The majority of people born before 1957 are likely to have been infected naturally and therefore are presumed to be protected against measles, mumps, and rubella, the CDC says. If you had clinical measles and youre certain that it was rubeola, which is the the measles virus, and you should have lifelong immunity, said Dr. Ford of Joe DiMaggio. We do know that theres going to be a very small number of patients who get the vaccine and can still get measles, but its generally very, very mild and you may not have all the symptoms like a full-blown case of measles. Related Articles If we are protected from measles for life, why are there booster rumors? Measles antibodies are incredibly durable, but they do wane over time, Jetelina points out in her newsletter. This isnt too concerning because we have T cell protection, too. Studies that followed people for 17 years showed the vast majority (91%) remained above the threshold needed for protection. currently, outbreaks are occurring among unvaccinated people, she says. Some countries such as Korea are discussing the possibility of a measles booster. Studies show a booster provides benefits, but they are short-lived. There has not been discussion of this type in the U.S. If I get measles, how dangerous is it? Measles most often can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications for the symptoms. However, there are several groups that are more likely to suffer from measles complications: Children younger than 5 years of age. Adults older than 20 years of age. Pregnant women. People with compromised immune systems, such as from leukemia or HIV infection. Measles can make you feel pretty lousy, Ford said. The good news is that most of the cases resolve on their own. Adults can get more of the complications, said Dr. Tan, the infectious disease expert. This is not a benign illness. About 1 in 5 people in the U.S. who get measles will be hospitalized, and there have been deaths from the disease. Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, deafness and encephalitis. When is okay to sent my child back to school if he gets measles? Ford says children are contagous for four days after the rash clears. Measles comes with a rash rather than the small bumps associated with chicken pox. What do I do if I think I or my child has measles? Hold off on going to the emergency department, unless you or your child has a complication. We have really been emphasizing to parents that the emergency department is not the place to come for measles unless you need emergency type of care because its so contagious, Ford said. The majority of these kids can be cared for at home and given comfort measures. We discourage parents from bringing them to the hospital for testing or for confirmation of the diagnosis because that increases the risk of spread in the community. Because measles was eradicated more than 20 years ago, medical students and even some doctors never have seen the disease. Early symptoms easily can be mistaken for another illness. The CDC and the Florida Department of Health have alerted providers that the disese is spreading again. How do you actually confirm that you have measles? Is it just a visual? A lab test officially can confirm measles. But Ford says most doctors rely on a clinical diagnosis. You can diagnose measles pretty conclusively based on the signs and symptoms, he said. If there is an exposure history and if the child has not been vaccinated, you can really make that diagnosis. Sun Sentinel health reporter Cindy Goodman can be reached at cgoodman@sunsentinel.com. At least six Russians arrested while attending makeshift memorials to the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in prison in Russia on Feb. 16, were given military draft notices upon their release from custody, local Russian media reported on Feb. 21. Russian authorities have reportedly arrested hundreds of people for laying flowers at memorials to Navalny or otherwise publicly mourning his death. Leaders around the world condemned Russia for Navalny's death and blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for what has been consistently characterized as a murder. Russian Telegram channels said that six people who were detained in St. Petersburg while attending makeshift memorial ceremonies were told that they "must report to the enlistment office within a few days to verify their information and register for military service." "Theyll break our fingers if we dont sign (the summonses)," one Telegram channel reported, quoting a man who was arrested and subsequently handed a draft notice. While Russia has refrained from ordering another wave of full-scale mobilization on the scale of what was seen in the fall of 2022, Ukraine's military intelligence said in January 2024 that as many as 30,000 people were being mobilized every month. Read also: Biden administration to impose major sanctions in response to Alexei Navalnys murder Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) More than half of Michiganders dont recognize the names of some of the leading candidates for the states open U.S. Senate seat although a race between two of them is a statistical tie. More than 50% (51%) of those surveyed didnt recognize the name Elissa Slotkin. The 7th District Democratic Congresswoman is considered one of the top candidates to replace Debbie Stabenow, who is stepping down after 24 years in the Senate. Poll: More than half of Michiganders support Middle East cease-fire Slotkin is running against several people for the Democratic nomination for Senate, including actor and activist Hill Harper and Detroit businessman Beydoun Nasser. Slotkin who was the only Democrat mentioned in the EPIC MRA survey has raised more than 10 times as much money as her nearest counterpart. More than 60% (61%) dont recognize the name Mike Rogers. Rogers is a former member of Congress who represented much of the same area as Slotkin (including Ingham and Livingston counties) when he served from 2001 to 2015. He faces numerous fellow Republicans, including businessman Sandy Pensler and former Congressman Peter Meijer for the Republican nomination. Through the end of December, Rogers has raised $1.8 million more than any of his competitors. Rogers was the only Republican mentioned in the survey. Mike Rogers in December 2023. Both would need to win their respective August primaries before squaring off against each other. But if they did, the poll of 600 likely Michigan voters suggests a virtual tie Slotkin has 39% support to Rogers 38% though the poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 4%. Perhaps because neither is particularly well known, almost a quarter of those asked (23%) said they were either undecided or refused to say who they would support. Poll: 1/2 of Michiganders think Trump committed a crime; most will vote for him anyway The 10% difference in the number of people who know the candidates makes up for the difference in their favorability rating. Slotkins favorable rating is 23% to Rogers 13%. Both are seen unfavorably by 11% of those asked. The race to replace Stabenow is important to the balance of power in Washington. Democrats and their independent supporters currently hold 51 seats in the Senate to the Republicans 49. The poll was conducted between February 13th and February 18th. Of those polled, 41% said they were Democrats, 41% said they were Republicans, and 14% identified as independents. The rest refused to say. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. China to tackle noise pollution at airports Xinhua) 09:09, February 21, 2024 BEIJING, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- China has released a three-year action plan for noise pollution prevention and control at civil airports, as part of its efforts to promote the green transformation of civil aviation. The plan was jointly issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the State Administration for Market Regulation. By 2025, a standard system for pollution prevention and control at airports should be basically built, and positive progress should be made on the development of key monitoring technologies, according to the action plan. Airports with an annual throughput of at least 5 million passengers should have the real-time monitoring and source tracing capability of civil aircraft noise events by 2025, it said. By 2027, the surrounding regions of airports with an annual throughput of at least 10 million passengers should enjoy better environment quality, said the action plan. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Is Oklahoma's bill banning trans students from using bathrooms that don't match their sex to blame for the death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict? The victim's mother, Sue Benedict, said that their beloved kid was bullied for being transgender. She said that they would encourage Nex (pronouns they/them) to rise above bullies. However, Sue didn't know that bullying would to Nex's eventual death. Now, their death has drawn national attention, with most concerns focusing on the violent act caused by transphobia. Nex Benedict's Death According to Independent UK's latest report, Nex Benedict began experiencing bullying in 2023, around a few months after Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt approved the bill banning trans students from using bathrooms that don't match their sex. On Feb. 7, the actions of the students bullying Nex became more violent as they brutally beat the trans teenager in a bathroom at Owasso High School. The Owasso Police Department stated that Nex suffered severe head injuries during a "physical altercation." A day after the bullying incident, Nex was pronounced dead, as confirmed by law enforcement officials. "On February 8th, 2024, the Owasso Police Department was made aware that the juvenile was rushed back to a hospital, where the student was pronounced dead," said Owasso Police Department Chief Dan Yancey. Nex's death ignited a debate regarding the safety of trans and non-binary students in schools. Now, numerous LGBTQ advocay groups and organizations are blaming lawmakers for implementing legislations targeting LGBTQ members. Read Also: Alabama Supreme Court Defines Frozen Embryos as 'Children' in Landmark Ruling Oklahoma's Bill Bans Trans Students From Bathrooms One of the LGBTQ advocacy groups criticizing Oklahoman lawmakers is Freedom Oklahoma. The organization said that lawmakers should be blamed for Nex Benedict's death since they promote "bigotry" and intolerance towards trans and non-binary students. Aside from Freedom Oklahoma, the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) also released a joint statement about Nex's death. "The assault on Nex is an inevitable result of the hateful rhetoric and discriminatory legislation targeting Oklahoma trans youth," said the union. The LGBTQ advocacy group stated that it is challenging Oklahoma's law that requires schools to "discriminate against students like Nex." "We believe every student should have the safe and affirming environment they need to thrive, and policies that put transgender students in danger make schools less safe places for all students," added the ACLU. Related Article: Michigan Transgender Woman Loses Case Against Ex -Boyfriend Over Argument on Refrigerated Testicles GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Citing an ongoing problem at the countrys southern boarder and the influx of drugs because of it, Republicans in the Michigan Senate are calling for increased penalties for manufacturing, delivery or possession of fentanyl, as well as an end to sanctuary cities in the state. Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter Township, said in a release, Joe Bidens disastrous open border policies have led to a crisis of proportions never experienced before. Given the political volatility of the issues, will they come up for a discussion? Nesbitt says he wants to have the debate on the floor of the Senate. Ive called on the leadership, the Democrat majority leadership to take up these bills and have a discussion. So well see where the bills go tomorrow, where the resolution goes tomorrow, and I think its important to have that debate, he said. Something that I think is important to make sure that local law enforcement is working with federal law enforcement, but also that we provide local law enforcement additional tools to address this fentanyl crisis happening here in Michigan, in our communities across the United States. And I dont think thats a partisan issue. At least two bills and a resolution have been or will be introduced by Republicans. It will be up to Democratic leadership as to when or if the matters come before the Senate. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Chaotic video has emerged showing a group of NYPD officers struggling to arrest a man inside the Randalls Island migrant tent shelter last week, with several rowdy residents pelting police with objects like cushions, backpacks and water bottles. The frantic scene took place at around 11 a.m. Thursday morning when police tried to eject a man from the controversial tent city, which lies between Manhattan and Queens. The sprawling 2,000-countable tent shelter was the scene of a fatal stabbing last month, while in a separate incident in January, a man was stabbed in the neck. Police were called to last weeks fracas when the suspect, who hasnt been identified, was involved in a verbal dispute with security and acting in a disorderly fashion, the NYPD told Fox News Digital. ILLEGAL MIGRANT ASKED TO 'FINISH THE JOB' IN SLAYING FELLOW MIGRANT AT NYC SHELTER: PROSECUTOR Video shows the suspect refusing to leave and then mayhem erupting as around five police officers try to forcibly remove him. Police did not reveal his age or if he is a migrant. It is unclear what led to the confrontation; the suspect was later charged with trespassing. In the video posted to TikTok by @gym_vida_sana, police can be seen grappling with the suspect who is dressed in a white T-shirt and black pants as the whistling and jeering crowd grows louder. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP At one point, a police officer can be seen pulling his baton in an effort to push back the encroaching and restless crowd. One migrant is so enraged that when he shouts at police, he jumps up into the air, wagging his finger. Left, a backpack is thrown at police; right, NYPD personnel run to the entrance while being attacked with objects. MAN STABBED IN NECK WITH 'SHARP OBJECT' AT NYC MIGRANT PROCESSING CENTER AT RANDALL'S ISLAND Another migrant flings a cushion at an officer, striking him in the face. Seconds later, a backpack flies in the direction of a female officer who has just drawn her baton. The backpack hits her on the side of her head and momentarily knocks her off balance, the footage shows. Seconds later, what appears to be a blue bottle full of water can be seen airborne, but luckily it doesnt hit any of the police officers. Some onlookers can be seen recording the scene on their phones. Security can then be seen helping the arresting police officers eventually cuff the resisting suspect. He is then lifted and hauled out of the tent as more objects are hurled in the direction of the police. No injuries were reported. The Randall's Island migrant shelter was built in 2023. CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "Two men started fighting, and when the cops tried to intervene thats when people started hurling bottles and bags," "Umayro," a migrant from Kyrgyzstan, told the New York Post. Another resident told the publication that the incident was "terrifying but normal" for the tent city, which was built last year as New York City struggled to get a grip on the influx of migrants. Mayor Eric Adams has said the illegal migrant crisis could cost the city as much as $12 billion through 2025. At least 170,000 illegal migrants have arrived in New York since spring 2022. On Jan. 6, Moises Coronado, 27, allegedly plunged a 5-inch blade into 24-year-old Dafren Canizalez at the migrant shelter after the pair got into an argument in the cafeteria. Thursday's incident comes two weeks after a group of migrants attacked two police officers in Times Square. Original article source: Migrants hurl bottles, backpacks at NYPD during shelter fracas From left, designers Glen and Bruce Proctor pose for portraits in front of their creations at the fashion hub part of the women's Fall-Winter 2024-25 collection presented in Milan, northern Italy, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni) MILAN (AP) Milan Fashion Week highlighted diversity and in a new initiative that aims to promote inclusion across the industry and the return of a showcase for underrepresented designers as five days of mostly womenswear previews for Fall-Winter 2024-25 got underway on Wednesday. An agreement signed Tuesday by the Italian fashion council, a governmental anti-discrimination office, and a nonprofit promoting African fashion seeks to trace, identify and fight discriminatory practices. The initiative will start with a broad survey to create a snapshot of the representation of women, people of color and other underrepresented groups across the industry, from fashion houses to suppliers. The president of the Italian National Fashion Chamber, Carlo Capasa, told The Associated Press that he hopes to have results in a year. Capasa said he was approached by Premier Giorgia Meloni s anti-discrimination office for the initiative to understand what can be done better, tapping the fashion industry as a closely watched agent of change in society. I dont think an association like ours can solve the (discrimination) problem, or it would be very simple to fix. I think we can try to make a small contribution," Capasa said, adding that the government's role was critical. The level of awareness has changed, which is already a step forward." The Italian fashion industry has been under pressure since the Black Lives Matters movement to be more transparent about representation of people of color in decision-making roles. But ascertaining numbers has been stymied by privacy limits that Capasa said the new survey hopes to overcome. He distinguished the initiative's focus behind-the-scenes from others promoting designers of color, such as the We Are Made in Italy, which mentors designers of color living and working in Italy, and the Black Carpet Awards, which honors diversity across sectors. FASHION HUB SHOWCASES EMERGING BLACK DESIGNERS The Fashion Hub again showcased emerging designers from underrepresented communities, featuring U.S. brands BruceGlen and anOnlyChild and British brand Sabirah. The initiative, sponsored by Blanc Magazines Teneshia Carr and the Italian fashion council, offers a space to meet buyers and the fashion community on the hunt for new brands. Bruce and Glen Proctor, the twins behind the BruceGlen brand, gave a superhero vibe in their colorful Thrills tracksuits in layered v-lapels recalling Michael Jacksons Thriller jacket. Bruce in burgundy, violet, pumpkin and umber, and Glen in bright fuchsia and eggplant with an aqua-blue base. With a collection built around a light-catching melange of rainbow colors, BruceGlen is not about staples, but spreading joy. That is our goal with BruceGlen, to design clothing that ignites joy. When I look at myself in the mirror with this outfit it makes me smile, Bruce said. Deborah Latouches latest Sabirah collection was inspired by Dominique Deveraux, the first Black fictional character featured on the 1980s TV series Dynasty. She wore head to toe monochrome, with a matching hat, matching bag and matching shoes. She was just everything, Latouche said. Definitely in the U.K. we thought, we are seeing someone who has an amazing presence on television.'" Latouche recreated the Deveraux's spirit with a liquid golden dress cascading down the figure into a train and topped with a snood, a look fit for any red carpet and in keeping with the brand's modesty ethos. Maxwell Osborne took inspiration from his Jamaican roots for his New York-based anOnlyChild collection, creating looks out of mostly deadstock fabrics that suggest an elevated repurposing of hand-me-downs. My family grew up with nothing but their uniforms for school always had to be pressed and clean. But they also had no shoes,'' said Osborne, a self-taught art student who cut his teeth at Puff Daddy's brand Sean John. There was this joy and playfulness. This was their world." Incumbent Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson cruised to a first-place finish in the mayoral primary Tuesday, advancing to the April 2 general election. Johnson won 86% of the vote Tuesday night. In a statement, Johnson said he was "filled with immense gratitude" for the results. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson moves forward to the April 2 election, when he will square off for a four-year term in office. "This victory is not just mine; it is ours," he said. It is a testament to our collective belief in the power of unity, hard work, and a relentless commitment to progress. Together, we have made significant strides in making Milwaukee a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive city. Yet, our journey is far from over. There's more work to do, more dreams to fulfill, and more challenges to overcome." Johnson will face Wisconsin God Squad founder David King, who received 10% of the vote to Ieshuh Griffin's 4%. King in a statement late Tuesday framed the race as "David D. King vs Goliath," saying he was running not just against Johnson but also forces like the Democratic Party and the "mainstream media" that he said do not cover Johnson critically. He called for solutions to the troubles at the Housing Authority of Milwaukee and for specifics on new laws Johnson would recommend to fight gun violence in the city. Johnson is seeking a full four years in office after serving the final two years on the term of former Mayor Tom Barrett, who left office in December 2021 to become ambassador to Luxembourg. His departure meant that Johnson, then Common Council president, became acting mayor until the April 2022 election to fill the remainder of the term. Unlike in 2022, when multiple candidates already in elected office jumped into the mayoral race, this year Johnson did not face anyone with previous experience in office or with a comparable campaign war chest or public platform. The same is true for County Executive David Crowley, who is also facing a challenge from Griffin. Some posited that the proven power of incumbency in Milwaukee coupled with Johnson's and Crowley's legislative accomplishments on issues such as the new local sales taxes led would-be challengers and their would-be funders to calculate that it's not worth taking on an expensive race to try to oust these incumbents. According to their latest campaign finance reports, Johnson and Crowley had $363,966 and $251,552 cash on hand, respectively. By comparison, King had $476 cash on hand. For both her city and county races, Griffin filed as exempt as the money raised for her campaign falls below the required threshold. Ieshuh Griffin Griffin is also running for Common Council District 3 against Ald. Jonathan Brostoff. Also on the primary ballot Tuesday were races for Common Council districts 5, 7 and 11 the latter two without incumbents. Alison Dirr can be reached at adirr@jrn.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson cruises to primary win The east end of the Behrens Trench of Compass Minerals connected to the Great Salt Lake is seen on Oct. 18, 2016. | Ravell Call, Deseret News Great Salt Lake Collaborative This article is published through the Great Salt Lake Collaborative, a solutions journalism initiative that partners news, education and media organizations to help inform people about the plight of the Great Salt Lake and what can be done to make a difference before it is too late. Read all of our stories at greatsaltlakenews.org. It is not without controversy, its naysayers and organizations opposed to the new tax burden it imposes on extraction industries operating on the Great Salt Lake, but a legislative measure advanced Tuesday out of a Senate legislative committee. Rep. Casey Snider, R-Paradise, said reforms contained in HB453 are badly needed if there is a common goal to restore the health of the Great Salt Lake. I want to make sure that the committee is fully aware under the current statutory framework that every drop of water that we save through conservation is available for extraction. Every drop of agricultural water that we send to the Great Salt Lake because of our efficiencies is available for extraction. Everything that a city, municipality or anyone does to save water does nothing more than set additional water aside for extraction as it sits right now, he said. Industry has the ability to take the lake to zero. Snider said there is nothing nefarious in the way the system is set up, it has simply been that way because the Great Salt Lake has had enough water over the years. Since it has dropped to historic lows and the state Legislature has spent nearly a billion dollars over the last two years to help the lake and the state with water conservation changes are necessary. The measure proposes to set up a distribution management plan, which is in place for other water bodies in the state, including Utah Lake and for water in Iron County. What this will do is make sure that there is fairness in the Great Salt Lake system for all users and it will ensure that the doctrine of prior appropriation will be instilled there and hopefully (invoke) a process which will also allow these companies to operate now, he said. Hes had pushback from some mineral extraction companies about the new rules that are proposed. Snider, who hails from a rural community and has been involved in public land issues for years, said his response has been to stress there has to be a responsibility embraced by all to arrive at solutions to the Great Salt Lakes ailing condition. And, he added, he tells them: Welcome to agriculture. Water for crops, cities and extraction Agriculture has long been the target to blame for the depletion of the Great Salt Lake, which has reached historic lows and diminished to half its size. While there has been emphasis on municipal water savings with secondary water metering, turf replacement programs and pushing for xeriscaping on new development, the extraction industries operating on the Great Salt Lake have generally been overlooked, Snider said. Lawmakers, however, have begun to take notice with House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, comparing some of the actions to the wild wild West. Related Snider said while some operators have been open to negotiations over provisions in the bill, others have not. Rhonda Anderson Lauritzen, executive vice president of Mineral Resources International, spoke to some of the inequities in mineral extraction on the lake and said she favors the bill. She said 10 companies are in the mineral extraction industry on the lake, using 703,000 acre-feet of water. Two of those companies have 700,000 acre-feet of water, while the rest are left with what remains. As is the case of the prior appropriation doctrine, senior water rights holders are the last to have to curtail that water use in years of water shortages. That leaves others not being able to put a straw in the bucket and at a perpetual disadvantage. Severance taxes, royalty rates and fairness Sniders bill also proposes to increase the severance tax for these companies from 2.6% to 7.8%, which is on top of the royalty rate already assessed. Sen. Gregg Buxton, R-Roy, said that is cause for concern, and he ultimately voted not to advance the bill. That is a pretty big hit, he said. Rusty Cannon, with the Utah Taxpayers Association, also argued against the measure due to the tax provisions. If youre trying to encourage more of something, you should tax it less this is going in exactly the opposite direction. And thats our concern. As has been mentioned, a rate somewhat tripling or whatever ends up happening, we think is detrimental to good tax policy, he added. The bill, which has already passed a House committee and received a 7-1 vote out of the Senate Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment Committee, advances to the House for additional consideration. The Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday denied the appeal of a man who committed a mass shooting inside Buffalo's Allina Health Clinic two years ago, killing a medical assistant and wounding four staffers in a brazen attack that involved gunfire and pipe bombs. Gregory Paul Ulrich, 70, is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole after a Wright County jury convicted him in 2022 of all 11 felony charges, including the premediated first-degree murder of Lindsay Overbay, 37. Ulrich argued that extensive media coverage made a fair trial impossible and that Wright County District Court abused its discretion by denying his request to strike a juror who read about the shooting and Overbay's slaying. But the Minnesota Supreme Court unanimously upheld Ulrich's convictions in a ruling Wednesday, two weeks after the two-year anniversary of the mass shooting on Feb. 9, 2021. In the 21-page ruling written by Justice G. Barry Anderson, the high court found that the district court allowed Ulrich to renew his request to change venues, which he did not do. Because of this, Ulrich forfeited his appellate review of the issue after the district court concluded "the horrific nature of the events and widespread reporting throughout Minnesota of those events made a change of venue likely ineffective." Justices also ruled that Ulrich's defense attorneys failed to use a peremptory challenge to remove the juror in question. The Supreme Court found that the juror did not express bias when asked at length whether he could set aside what he read in the news. The juror said that his mother-in-law was a nurse at the hospital where Overbay died. While he said it wouldn't be easy, the juror said he would keep an open mind. Ulrich testified at trial in his own defense, saying that he didn't intend to kill anyone. In appeal, he argued there was insufficient evidence to support premediated first-degree murder. But Anderson wrote that "it is unreasonable to conclude that Ulrich did not premeditate the murders and intend to kill the victims" when considering the circumstances and facts of the case. Less than two months before the shooting, Ulrich recorded cell phone videos with statements about how persons denied oxycodone should "kill as many nurses as you can." Ulrich had been in severe pain for more than four years after surgery on his spine and tailbone and grew angry that he couldn't get narcotic drugs to relieve his pain. Authorities suspected him of abusing opioids and cut him off. He traveled to the clinic, armed with a 9-milimeter handgun, ammunition, and four pipe bombs. On the witness stand, Ulrich said he planned on property damage by blowing up some bombs and shooting victims in the buttocks. But upon entering the clinic, he "wanted to sensationalize more" to send a louder message and "get people's attention," he testified. Anderson said Ulrich shot several victims multiple times and at close range. Despite Ulrich arguing in his appeal that he attempted to render aid because he called 911, Anderson ruled that Ulrich set off three bombs after placing that call. "...[T]he call to 911 was only after he had attempted to lure more victims into a trap by pretending that he needed help," Anderson wrote. Also wounded in the attack were clinic workers Sherry Curtis, Antonya Fransen-Pruden, Jennifer Gibson, and Tamara Schaufler. Wright County Attorney Brian Lutes said in a statement Wednesday that the Minnesota Supreme Court ruling "ensures that Ulrich will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole." "I extend my thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Lindsay Overbay, the other shooting victims, and all the medical providers and patients at the clinic on February 9, 2021, who were impacted by this horrific act of violence. I thank my law enforcement partners and paramedics who entered the clinic with extreme courage to arrest Ulrich and render care to the shooting victims. Lives were saved because of the bravery of law enforcement and paramedics." Labour has demanded an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in Gaza for the first time in an attempt to prevent what appears to be the biggest rebellion against Keir Starmer since he became party leader. The party leadership has been under pressure to support an immediate end to the fighting in Gaza, as Starmer had only previously called for a "sustainable ceasefire" or "humanitarian pauses." Labour Demands Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza Shadow foreign secretary David Lammy said the situation has evolved and is now "intolerable" since the fighting started three months ago. Lammy told broadcasters, "We have set down a motion calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. That's because the situation now in Gaza is intolerable with a dramatic loss of life, with so many people facing starvation." He said the position is in line with the UK's Five Eyes allies, including Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, which demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza last week. Labour has clarified its stance on the ceasefire, but it is unclear how this has resulted in a significant shift in opinion. When questioned about the difference between Labour's previous stance, which said that a ceasefire had to be "sustainable" with certain conditions, Lammy responded that an immediate humanitarian ceasefire requires both sides to lay down their arms. He claimed that a political solution must be outlined to demand the release of the hostages. He continued that the motion would talk about an immediate humanitarian ceasefire but also outline the conditions that must be met before that could happen. Furthermore, Lammy was informed that although Labour is forcing Israel to surrender its weapons while hostages are still being held captive, Hamas is unlikely to respond to the call. The motion is an amendment to the SNP's motion calling for an immediate ceasefire, scheduled for discussion in the Commons tomorrow. The SNP and Labour now hold quite similar positions, although Labour's amendment places more emphasis on the role of Hamas as well as Israel in achieving a lasting ceasefire. However, the speaker could not call for the amendment, and the government has now set its own wording, which could remove Labour's efforts from the order paper. The government's amendment maintains its current position, calling for an immediate humanitarian pause as the best way to stop the fighting and to get aid in and hostages out. The Prince of Wales called for a halt to the fighting in Gaza in a rare intervention, which prompted Labour to change its stance. Read Also: Ballerina Behind Bars: LA Dancer Arrested for 'High Treason' in Russia US Warns Israel Against Rafah Offensive In New York, the US has proposed a UN Security Council resolution urging for a temporary ceasefire and opposing a ground offensive in Rafah. The US has not previously used the term "ceasefire," but international pressure on Israel has increased amid concerns about an incursion in the southern Gazan city. The draft document marks the first time the US has openly supported a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, it adds that the temporary truce should start "as soon as practicable," giving the Israeli military considerable leeway. The Biden administration will provide the text as an alternative to an Algerian draft resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire scheduled for discussion on Tuesday. Related Article: Biden Pushes for UN Security Council Action, Urges Temporary Ceasefire in Israel-Gaza Conflict More than 400 workers at 21 Stabucks locations filed petitions Tuesday with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to join the Starbucks Workers United union. This was the largest single-day filing of the campaign to unionize Starbucks workers since it launched in 2021, according to a statement by the union. In a letter to Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan, the workers said a lack of resources, poor working conditions, inconsistent scheduling and ever-increasing demands motivated them to join the union. Across the country management is cutting hours, writing inconsistent and unreliable schedules, and placing more and more work on fewer and fewer partners, Starbucks lingo for employees, the workers wrote. Starbucks profit driven behavior makes doing our jobs impossible. We cannot keep up with constant promotions, dilapidated equipment, and unclean stores. Its clear to us now more than ever that this one-sided relationship is no longer working. The workers are demanding better wages, clear communication, input into decisions that impact their day-to-day work and manageable expectations. Andrew Trull, a Starbucks spokesperson, told The Hill, While we believe our direct relationship as partners is core to our culture and our continued improvements to the partner experience, we respect the rights of partners to organize and reaffirm our aim to negotiate first contracts for represented stores this year. The company also invested more than 20 percent of its profits into wages, training and equipment in 2023, Trull said, and has raised total hourly compensation for U.S. workers by nearly 50 percent since 2020. We encourage all partners at stores petitioning for representation to get the facts, make an informed choice and ensure their voice heard by voting in neutral, secret-ballot elections conducted by the National Labor Relations Board. Our aim will be to ensure the process is fair and our partners voices are heard, he added. Nearly 400 Starbucks stores in 42 states and the District of Columbia have successfully unionized since December 2021, according to the union. Since the campaign began, Starbucks has been accused of illegally harassing, intimidating and firing employees who have helped organize union efforts. NLRB labor law judges have found Starbucks guilty of illegal union-busting activity in 48 of the 49 cases theyve ruled on, Bloomberg Law reported last week. Starbucks has recently joined SpaceX, Trader Joes and Amazon companies that have also been hit with high-profile labor law violation allegations in arguing the structure of the NLRB and the removal restrictions on administrative law judges are unconstitutional. The alleged union-busting campaign has drawn ire in Washington. Last March, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee questioned former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz about alleged labor law violations. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who chairs the committee, urged workers to continue their unionization efforts. A recent third-party assessment found Starbucks has made consistent progress since organizing began, no evidence that the company has anti-union playbook, and that the company has engaged in meaningful negotiations with employees. But following the release of the report in December 2023, Starbucks Board Chair Mellody Hobson said, While Starbucks has had no intention to deviate from the principles of freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, there are things the Company can, and should, do to improve its stated commitments and its adherence to these important principles. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Doctors and Medical workers take part in a protest against a plan to admit more students to medical school, in Seoul Doctors and Medical workers take part in a protest against a plan to admit more students to medical school, in Seoul By Ju-min Park SEOUL (Reuters) -South Korea's biggest hospitals cancelled procedures and turned away patients seeking emergency care on Wednesday after thousands of trainee doctors walked off the job in protest at a government plan to boost medical school admissions. One hospital, the Asan Medical Center in Seoul, put up a sign saying its emergency unit was only handling cardiac arrest cases. The emergency departments at the other four hospitals were also on "red alert", according to a government bulletin, meaning they were running out of beds. "It is so frustrating that the resident doctors' strike is happening now," the brother of a cancer patient who had spent 10 hours looking for a hospital bed told newspaper JoongAng Ilbo. The health ministry says 7,813 doctors have left their jobs since protests began this week over a plan by the government to increase the number of medical students to boost healthcare staffing in remote areas and meet the demands of one of the world's most rapidly ageing societies. The government wants to increase the number of medical students to 5,000 from the 2025 academic year from 3,000 now, and then add 10,000 more by 2035. The protesters, however, say South Korea has enough doctors, and that the government needs to address working conditions and pay, particularly in key areas such as paediatrics and emergency medicine, before recruiting more students. South Korea's population of 52 million had 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people in 2022, far below the average of 3.7 for peers in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and polls show many Koreans support the government plan. One group participating in the protest called the plan a political ploy ahead of a general election in April. "We couldn't just sit back and watch medical policies built only for the sake of winning the general election," the Korea Interns and Residents Association said in a statement. Local media said between a third and a half of scheduled surgeries at the five major hospitals have been cancelled due to the walkout. The protests have continued despite a government order for the doctors to return to work. On Wednesday, Vice health minister Park Min-soo urged the protesters to prioritise patients over collective action. "The basic calling of medical professionals is to protect the health and lives of the people, and any group action that threatens that cannot be justified," he told reporters. Safety Minister Lee Sang-min later threatened the protest leaders with possible arrest. "The police and the prosecutors' office will consult and take measures against any group or individuals who are leading collective action, including arrest and investigation," he said. About 76% of South Koreans back the government's plan to increase the number of medical students, a Gallup Korea poll showed last week, amid concerns over staff shortages outside the greater Seoul area. (Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Miral Fahmy and Clarence Fernandez) FILE PHOTO: The logo for Morgan Stanley is seen on the trading floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in Manhattan, New York City By Kirstin Ridley LONDON (Reuters) -Morgan Stanley used an "unrealistic" and "inappropriate" near $1.0 billion margin call to force trades held by retail tycoon Mike Ashley's Frasers group off its books partly out of snobbery, London's High Court was told on Wednesday. Ashley, whose fortune is estimated by Forbes to be worth $5.2 billion, told the first day of a two-week trial that the demand for collateral by the Wall Street bank, that had spurned him as a client three years ago, had left him in "total shock". "It was like a nuclear bomb hitting Slough (a town in England)," he told the court. Frasers is suing Morgan Stanley for about 47 million euros ($51 million) over alleged costs and lost trading profits after the bank imposed the margin call - security to cover possible losses - on the retailer's trading position in German fashion group Hugo Boss in May 25, 2021. Adrian Beltrami, a lawyer for Frasers, said the bank changed the purpose of its $915 million margin call on May 28, 2021, after discovering that Frasers stood behind trades held by its client, Denmark's Saxo Bank. Frasers, which says Morgan Stanley's staff saw Ashley as an "upstart" with "zero respect to the norms of the way in which we do business", alleges the decision was capricious, in breach of market practice and designed to force it to close or move its positions and cause it harm. Morgan Stanley dismisses the claim as contrived and without merit. It says it had no contractual relationship with Frasers, only with Saxo, and alleges a margin call based on a potential 400% rise in Boss shares was designed to ensure it was properly protected from exposure to stock market bets. The bank also brushed aside allegations of any vendetta against Ashley. It said the bank staff were horrified at the size of the Boss position at a time of heightened concern about large positions in single stocks. "Holy crap ... we haven't seen anything this big for them (Saxo) before ... this is exactly the type of concentration we need to be worried about," Greg Basso, from the bank's counterparty risk division, told an internal call on May 24 - before Saxo revealed its client's identity - the court heard. Camilla Bingham, representing the bank, said Morgan Stanley could have "exercised the nuclear right" to force the Boss position to be closed out when the margin was not fully paid, but instead tried to resolve the problem with Saxo. The margin call came two months after the collapse of family office Archegos Capital, in which Morgan Stanley lost $911 million. Saxo and Frasers, which eventually transferred its trades, have settled their case separately. ($1 = 0.9264 euros) (Reporting by Kirstin RidleyEditing by Tomasz Janowski and Barbara Lewis) American media mogul Kim Kardashian is the latest celebrity to purchase the popular Tesla Cybertruck. But, she bought the electric pickup truck while many owners are concerned regarding the rusting and corroding issues. On Tuesday, Feb. 20, the reality-star-turned-mogul boasted her Tesla Cybertruck via her official Instagram Story post. She typed the caption "Cool Carpool Mom." This is the second time that Kim posted the Cybertruck. Her previous IG post was published before the Super Bowl. But, it wasn't clear if she already purchased the electric pickup truck during that time. Kim Kardashian Buys Tesla Cybertruck Despite Rusting Concerns According to Business Insider's latest report, Kim Kardashian's spokesperson hasn't confirmed if she really bought a Tesla Cybertruck of her own. But, there's a high chance that she really owns one now since the Tesla Cybertruck, which costs between $60,000 to $99,990, is not that expensive compared to the cars she has. These include Kim Kardashian's custom-painted Lamborghini Urus (more than $237,800) and her favorite Maybach Sedan (over $193,400). However, Elon Musk said that the Tesla Cybertruck is considered an exclusive EV. The Tesla CEO confirmed this after announcing that they will only sell 200,000 to 250,000 Cybertruck units yearly until 2025. As of writing, the billionaire hasn't confirmed if this yearly sales capacity will increase after 2025. Now, if Kim Kardashian really purchased a Tesla Cybertruck, will be it worth it given that the electric pickup truck is facing corroding and rusting issues? Read Also: US Senators Call for Tesla Recall Over Faulty EV Suspension Parts-Warn Automaker to Not Blame Drivers Should Kim Kardashian Worry About Cybertruck Rusting Issue? Many Tesla Cybertruck owners are complaining about the rusting and corroding issues they experienced after purchasing the electric pickup truck, as reported by CBS News. Among the Cybertruck owners who experienced these problems is Will, who documented the corrosion of his EV. He said that just 11 days after the purchase, he began noticing rust marks on his Cybertruck. Aside from Will, another Cybertruck owner named Raxar said that he experienced the same issue. "The adviser specifically mentioned the cybertrucks develop orange rust marks in the rain and that required the vehicle to be buffed out," explained Raxar. Since more and more Cybertruck owners started becoming concerned about the rusting and corrosion issues, Tesla Cybertruck engineer Wes Morrill decided to address their concerns. "Stainless is reactive and free iron that sits on it will rust. It's surface contamination only and can be cleaned off easily," said the Tesla staff. Morrill explained that the rusting is happening possibly because of the metal particles that attach to the Cybertruck units when they are being transported via railway. He added that these metal particles could also come from the factory where the Tesla Cybertruck vehicles are being manufactured. Since Morrill clarified that the rusting issue can easily be cleaned by Cybertruck owners, then Kim Kardashian has nothing to worry about. Related Article: Tesla Cybertruck Easily Corrodes Despite Being Made of Stainless Steel, Claim EV Owners Most registered voters in a new poll said they dont think President Biden has the physical or mental fitness for another term. The Quinnipiac University poll, released Wednesday, found that only 34 percent of registered voters think the president has the mental fitness to serve a second presidential term, while 64 percent of registered voters said they dont think Biden is mentally fit for another term. The poll found similar numbers when voters were asked about Bidens physical fitness for a second term, with 34 percent saying he has the physical fitness to serve a second presidential term, and 62 percent saying he doesnt. The poll also questioned registered voters on their views of former President Trump. Sixty percent of registered voters said Trump has the physical fitness for another term, while 48 percent said hes mentally fit for a return to the White House. The poll comes in the wake of a special counsel report on Bidens handling of classified documents, in which special counsel Robert Hur noted that the president had problems with recall and memory. 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. That report has added fuel to mounting worries over the presidents age. The Biden campaign has complained of media coverage focused on the issue. The publisher of The New York Times said this week that the White House has been extremely upset about how the newspaper has covered the 81-year-old presidents age. The Quinnipiac poll, conducted Feb. 15-19, featured 1,421 self-identified registered voters and had a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 2.6 percentage points. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A woman has been arrested in connection with the cold case killing of her newborn baby known as "Baby Skylar" who was found dead two decades ago in a trash can at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, police said Tuesday. The infant was found dead on Oct. 10, 2005, inside a trash can in a Terminal 4 women's restroom at the airport, the Phoenix Police Department said. The baby was wrapped in newspapers and a towel, and stuffed in a plastic bag. The child died by suffocation and the death was ruled a homicide. "The evidence on the scene indicated that the birth likely did not occur at the airport, and the bathroom is where the baby was abandoned by the suspects or the suspect," Phoenix Police Lt. James Hester said. COLD CASES CRACKED IN 2023: UNSOLVED MYSTERIES THAT FOUND RESOLUTION A composite drawing of Annie Anderson, 51, who is accused of killing her infant in 2005 and dumping the child in an airport trash can in Phoenix. The child's mother, Annie Anderson, 51, was arrested last month in Washington state, where she lives, and is being held pending extradition to Arizona. At the time of the death, Anderson was in the Phoenix area to attend a "real estate boot camp," Hester said. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Anderson allegedly admitted to being the child's mother, police said. Authorities declined to disclose what she said. ARIZONA MAN JUST RELEASED FROM PRISON STEALS TRUCK HAULING CORVETTES BECAUSE HE NEEDED A RIDE HOME: SHERIFF "We do know who the father is but based on the totality of the investigation, we have no reason to suspect he has criminal culpability," Hester said. The investigation into the infant's death went cold and was unsolved for years as authorities hoped advances in technology would assist them in finding the killer. In 2017, a tool called "Snapshot" used the child's DNA to create a composite sketch of the mother. Investigators then began using genetic genealogy, which led to a break in the case, police said. "Investigators cross-referenced the potential match with evidence originally collected at the scene and identified the probable mother of Baby Skylar," authorities said. Original article source: Mother of 'Baby Skylar' infant found dead in Phoenix airport trash can arrested in cold case killing COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) A Columbus man is facing prison time after pleading guilty to stealing identities to buy high-priced technology and vehicles. 24-year-old Siyuan Ye pleaded guilty Tuesday to mail fraud and aggravated identity theft, according to U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Kenneth L. Parker. For over a year, Ye stole identities by obtaining Ohio and Florida drivers licenses without authorization and then using the licenses to obtain credit from retailers. Report: Columbus passengers escaped explosion after Florida plane crash Court documents said that Ye stole at least 15 identities and got more than $100,000 in fraudulent credit. With the fraudulent money, Ye bought three motorcycles, including a Suzuki model in Westerville, a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, and high-priced technology. In April 2023, Ye allegedly used a stolen identity to buy nearly $8,500 worth of technology from a Micro Center that included laptops, graphics cards, and an Apple watch. As part of his plea agreement, he will pay more than $115,000 in restitution and could face up to three years in prison. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. After growing up in the US, I made the spontaneous decision to move to Dublin, Ireland. I've experienced affordable healthcare, better work-life balance, and a greater sense of safety. Traveling to nearby cities is cheap and easy, but the cost of living in Ireland isn't super low. I first fell in love with the idea of moving abroad five years ago after spending a semester in England. I met incredible people, tried new things, and focused on what I wanted most out of life while temporarily letting go of everything stressing me out at home. But after I returned to the US, the stress came back, and I realized I'd do anything to make my dream of living abroad a reality. Picking up and moving to Ireland on a spur-of-the-moment decision two years ago has presented many challenges, but I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. Read on for some of the things that surprised me when I first got to Ireland. It took me a minute to train my ear to the sounds of the Irish language From the Irish names that no one outside of Ireland can ever seem to pronounce to the varied accents that I need live subtitles to understand, it's been a real personal journey getting where I am today with Irishisms. I thought a lot of the phrases in Ireland would be similar to what I heard in the UK. But the Irish have their own national language, and it tends to bleed into everyday conversational English. For instance, the national police force is called An Garda Siochana, which translates to "Guardians of the Peace," and officers are referred to as the Gardai. To better explain the complexities of Irish slang, here's an actual conversation that occurred in my group chat when I first moved: Person 1: "Are you coming out with us tonight or not?" Person 2: "Sure look, put me down, I'll pop along. And I better not get the vid of anyone. Scooops! Also shurrup, Person 1, ya bleedin' tick." They had me in the first sentence. After that, I was frantically and unsuccessfully searching through Irish pages on Urban Dictionary. But I knew I finally adapted to the language when I found the words "thanks a million" (or "thanks a mil") and "bye bye bye bye bye bye bye" after any phone call slipping off my tongue. Day trips and weekend getaways are abundant and encouraged here a scenic landscape by the sea in ireland The whole country is absolutely beautiful.Alexis McSparren Ireland is home to RyanAir, meaning we have cheap flights to nearly any European destination at our fingertips. This results in the urge to take a weekend abroad as often as possible. Ireland itself is also packed to the brim with stunning natural landscapes. Although the Republic of Ireland is pretty small it's a little smaller than the state of Indiana its 26 counties all vary greatly from each other, leaving many wonders to explore. Trek the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher in County Clare; explore the Neolithic monument, Newgrange, in County Meath; and spend a week (or a lifetime) in my favorite part of the country, County Kerry, while driving through the spectacular Dingle Peninsula. The slower pace of life in Ireland means nothing ever runs on time The Irish pride themselves on being "great craic" (fun), but, unfortunately, this way of life often leads to losing track of time. If you find yourself perpetually late to everything, you'll feel right at home in Ireland. If not, prepare to spend long stretches of time staring at your phone while waiting for your mates. Although it's been an adjustment, unpredictability is what makes Ireland feel like things are still run by people, not by algorithms and advancement. It's precisely what makes a tremendous difference in the overall work-life balance here compared to the US, where my life constantly revolved around work schedules, promotions, and little time off. Alcohol is a big part of the culture exterior shot of the dwelling house pub in ireland There are plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs in every town.Alexis McSparren In Ireland, pubs are more than just places to have a pint of Guinness. They're more like a community center where people go to meet and catch up with old friends, have a hearty meal, sing along to live traditional music, and catch an Irish jig. At a pub, friends are also usually more likely to rotate buying rounds for each other instead of opening up individual tabs. Sharing is caring here in Ireland. I've never considered myself much of a drinker. In the US, I would go out maybe once or twice a month. But my alcohol consumption has definitely increased since living in Ireland because socializing here often happens exclusively at the pub. Although Dublin is the capital city, it has more of a small-town feel Despite being the capital city of Ireland and housing a lot of the country's population, Dublin has a small-town atmosphere. I'll never forget the first day I moved into my house. I was waiting outside in the rain with my luggage for my landlady, and my next-door neighbors ushered me in and carried my luggage into their house. After offering me several cups of tea (which I naively declined), we chatted in their sitting room until my landlady arrived. With the charming small-town feel also comes the harsh reality that shops don't stay open as late. Most businesses close at 6 p.m., with some, like post offices, often closing for lunch as well. On Sundays, most businesses close even earlier if they're open at all. Coming from the US, where one-stop supermarkets stay open 24 hours, it was a huge adjustment. But now I find the giant stores and selections a bit overwhelming during visits home. I finally understand that tea is the elixir of life a formal afternoon tea set up in ireland Everyone will offer you a cup of tea, or a cuppa, here.Alexis McSparren I'll never forget my first few weeks in Ireland when I was constantly offered tea by my coworkers and housemates. After politely declining and declaring that I'm not much of a tea drinker, they'd exclaim, "But then what do you drink?" I soon realized that they were right about how incredible tea is. Once you accept your cuppa in Ireland, there's an even more important question: "Barry's or Lyons?" Everyone has their opinions about which of the two major brands is best. I've never felt safer than I do living in Dublin Crime doesn't typically permeate the nightly news here. Ireland has pretty strict gun laws, so the rates of gun violence, and violent crime in general, are low. My Irish friends are always shocked when I explain past crime or violence I've been through in the US because it's something they've only experienced through Hollywood films. If you visit or move here, get ready to talk about the weather all the time reflection of the umbrella street art in a puddle on the streets of dublin ireland It really does rain a lot in Ireland.Alexis McSparren Small talk with strangers is the norm in Ireland, and crowd-favorite topics include the traffic, how one is keeping, how one's brother is keeping, and, the favorite of all favorites, the weather. The country is well-known for being windy, dreary, and rainy almost year-round. Although the summers are much milder, it's commonly overcast, and rain can start pouring out of a perfectly blue sky at any time. The unpredictable weather prompted the age-old Irish saying, "You can see every season in a day." Although housing and other costs of living are pricier, affordable healthcare is a plus Dublin is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, with most one-bedroom apartments going for close to $2,000 a month. There's also a lack of housing throughout the country that's forced rent prices to skyrocket. Because of the high cost of living and low wages, it's the cultural norm for many young people to live with their families until their 30s. Although housing is cheaper if you move outside of Dublin, public transportation throughout the country is also one of the most expensive in Europe. But I'm grateful for affordable healthcare. Since moving, I've found myself prioritizing my health in ways I never could've afforded to in the US. I used to go years without scheduling appointments, but now I'm able to easily and cheaply see a doctor, dentist, therapist, massage therapist, or chiropractor even without health insurance. There are so many unique traditions to discover in Ireland a fairy tree in ireland There are a lot of superstitions baked into the culture.Alexis McSparren Leprechauns may not exist, but Irish superstitions do. Whatever you do, don't cut down a lone tree standing in the middle of a field especially if there are ribbons tied to the branches or a formation of rocks around the base. In Celtic folklore, those are fairy trees, which serve as the gateway between our world and that of the wee fellas. Alas, these Irish creatures are closer to the spiteful pixies in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" than Tinker Bell. Damaging the tree is said to result in a lifetime of bad luck. The Irish take this cultural tradition very seriously, even today. An entire motorway was once built around an existing fairy tree in County Clare. Ireland also celebrates several unique rituals. For example, for more than 400 years in Killorglin, County Kerry, locals have held the Puck Fair where a wild goat is captured in the mountains, brought back to the town square, and crowned King Puck by a local schoolgirl (chosen as Queen Puck). King Puck's subjects celebrate this coronation during a festival that spans three days before he's released back into the mountains. I was glad I was living in Ireland during the pandemic lockdown alexis sitting on a beach in ireland I was able to escape to the beach and explore different parts of the country during the pandemic.Alexis McSparren Ireland takes public health very seriously, so the country remained under strict lockdown restrictions for nearly two whole years of the coronavirus pandemic. One of these restrictions meant that, for a period of time, I couldn't travel 2 kilometers, then 5 kilometers, then 20 kilometers from my home. But Dublin is sandwiched right between the sea and the mountains, meaning I was never short on beautiful scenery to explore. And because Ireland is a country steeped in ancient history, there's something to discover around every corner. This story was originally published in February 2022 and most recently updated on February 21, 2024. Read the original article on Business Insider Drive-Away Dolls is, technically speaking, made up of old parts. Its script was written two decades ago, when references to Ralph Nader and Chelsea Clintons security detail were current. Its homages are even more vintage, with trippy transitions harkening back to the acid-soaked B-movies of the 1960s. Theres a mysterious, sought-after briefcase, odd couple thugs on the hunt for it and some innocents who find themselves unwittingly entangled in the drama. It is all very familiar, and yet, in the hands of Ethan Coen and Tricia Cooke (who co-wrote), this 83-minute road trip caper feels like one of the freshest theatrical offerings of the year. Margaret Qualley and Geraldine Viswanathan star as Jamie and Marian, best friends and total opposites who are looking to escape their surroundings for a bit. The free-spirited, no-filter Jamie has been caught cheating on her cop girlfriend, Suki (Beanie Feldstein), and is looking for an adventure. The uptight Marian just wants a change and has decided that a better life awaits in Tallahassee, Florida. Both women are kind of cliches in the way that only works in the movies. Are they recognizable as people we know in real life? Not really. Do they make sense as friends? Also no. But they make for fun characters to play off of one another especially Qualley as Jamie who mines every inch of her wonderfully expressive face to embody this shameless Texas lesbian with a fondness for dive bars, a ravenous sex drive and a heart of gold. She just wants to get her friend laid on their little road trip down south. But unbeknownst to them, the drive-away car they rented for the trip (a run-down Dodge Aries that you can practically smell through the screen) contains a briefcase that some violent, dangerous people are after. Coen directed the film, his first solo narrative feature without his brother Joel Coen. The comedy and sensibilities we know so well from their shared films is still very present here, with a funny and violent start introducing the pesky silver briefcase and its owner, Santos, a short-lived but memorable Pedro Pascal. The world of Drive-Away Dolls is full of rich smaller parts. The great Bill Camp is Curlie, the stone-faced proprietor of the junky drive-away shop who is responsible for the epic mix up. He probably has less than 20 lines of dialogue, and yet every one is a keeper. The goons are Joey Slotnick and C.J. Wilson, another mismatched pair who bicker about their different ways of dealing with people of interest, while trying to track down the girls for their boss: A smooth-talking Colman Domingo. Miley Cyrus and Matt Damon, an ever-reliable comedic cameo who does not disappoint here, also factor into the mix. Its recent past setting is interesting: A time capsule that is a little clunky at times but also kind of charming when was the last time you heard a Ralph Nader joke? Its understandable why they kept their original period for a concept that might have evaporated with smartphones and dating apps mixed in. Their commitment to the bit is admirable, but it also might be one that needs a few more decades to settle into itself. It also makes you wonder about the Allison Anders version that never was. Drive-Away Dolls isnt perfect it has a bit of a main character problem in which its heroines are regularly outshone by the razor-sharp supporting players. This is perhaps a good problem to have, all things considered. But it can also lead to an unfair impatience with the leads who are still very good but perhaps a little less fun to spend time with than the others. And even with its economical runtime, it drags a bit. Still, its also one of those movies that you can imagine yourself watching (and enjoying) again, if at the very least to memorize some of its terrifically funny and quotable lines. Drive-Away Dolls, a Focus Features release in theaters Friday, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association for crude sexual content, full nudity, language and some violent content. Running time: 83 minutes. Three stars out of four. Tributes have been paid to a man who was killed when a driver careered into his stationary vehicle on a busy Birmingham road. The victim, named locally as Hizar Hanif, was in his 30s. "Our community mourns the tragic loss of Hizar Hanif," Khalid Mahmood, the MP for Perry Barr said in a statement. Mr Hanif was killed and one person was injured when an Audi driver hit a number of cars in Soho Road on Sunday. "My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," Mr Mahmood said in his statement. "As we await the outcome of the investigation, let us come together as a community to support one another in the face of this heart-breaking loss." An Audi driver crashed into a number of cars in Soho Rd on Sunday. Mr Hanif was due to be best man at a wedding this week and was the groom's best friend, Isha Weddings Event, a Birmingham-based company, told the BBC. The company said it had been hired to organise a pre-wedding event on Monday but this had been cancelled due to the crash. They did not know if the wedding was still going ahead. Mr Hanif worked at Checkpoint Tyres, a tyre dealer and repair garage with branches in Birmingham and Wolverhampton, according to several tributes to him posted on social media. Both branches posted on Facebook on Tuesday they were closed due to a family bereavement. "Hiza Hanif was my eldest brother. The best brother one could ask for," a separate Facebook post by the Wolverhampton branch of the business said. "Let my brother's death be a lesson to all drivers on [the] road that speed kills and takes away innocent precious lives which can never be replaced." Man arrested The post added Hanif had a wife and four-year-old son. "Losing you so suddenly and in a horrific way it's not fair," a Facebook post by the business' Birmingham branch said. The BBC contacted Checkpoint Tyres but they declined to comment further. West Midlands Police arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving soon after the crash. The force said he had been released under investigation while inquiries continued. A woman from another vehicle who suffered back injuries remained in hospital, police said. In a statement on Monday, the force said two people apart from the man who died were taken to hospital to be treated for injuries. Police have since said that the Audi driver was taken to hospital, but was found not to need treatment. Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands.co.uk A Mississippi Coast man will spend 30 years in prison after he pleaded guilty on Tuesday to sex crimes against a child. A judge sentenced Brandon Joseph Merrill, 40, of Moss Point on three charges: sexual battery, touching of a child for lustful purposes and exploitation of a child, the office of the District Attorney for Jackson, George and Greene counties announced Wednesday. Merrill wholly failed in his obligations as a human, Assistant District Attorney Nikki Huffman, who prosecuted the case, said in a news release. Despite being a child herself, the victim, through her unfettered bravery in coming forward about the abuse, has ensured that Merrill is now held accountable for his crimes. Merrill abused the female child for five years, between the time she was 9 and 14-years-old, the district attorneys office said in the news release. The Jackson County Sheriffs Office arrested Merrill in February 2023 after the child bravely came forward and told of the abuse, the release said. Investigators also found a digital hard drive with files that showed Merills acts of sexual abuse, the release said. Circuit Court Judge Calvin Taylor sentenced Merrill to 60 years. He will serve 30 in prison without the possibility of parole or early release. He will also be listed as a convicted sex offender. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) A healthier and tastier French fry and potato chip may be on the horizon. Researchers at Michigan State University say theyve discovered a gene that forces potatoes to convert starch into sugar when theyre growing in cold weather conditions. The researchers published their findings Feb. 20 in the journal The Plant Cell. The research reviewed how potatoes can be held at cold temperatures and still be used for a less sugary therefore, healthier chip or fry. Once potatoes are harvested, theyre stored often in cold storage systems. The cold used to keep the root vegetable from sprouting or spoiling as an unintended consequence, it triggers a gene that changes starch into sugar. As a result, the potato is less healthy because of the sugar content. That process is called cold induced sweetening or CIS. Weve identified the specific gene responsible for CIS and, more importantly, weve uncovered the regulatory element that switches it on under cold temperatures, says Jiming Jiang, professor in MSUs departments of Horticulture and Plant Biology. This discovery represents a significant advancement in our understanding of potato development and its implications for food quality and health. It has the potential to affect every single bag of potato chips around the world. Jiang has been a potato researcher for over 20 years and has dedicated his career to solving this mystery for years. He believes the new CIS-resistant potato gene could be commercially available in the near future. Michigan is the nations leading producer of potato chips, but farmers cant grow the crops year-round for a constant supply of fresh spuds to meet demands. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. The efactory at Missouri State University was recently awarded a $500,000 grant to expand academic projects and innovative partnerships that will connect students with entrepreneurs and employers. It will also allow for the expansion of Codefis Lead Labs program throughout the Southern Missouri Innovation Network, called Innovate SOMO. Last week, Missouri Technology Corporation announced the recipients of more than $3 million in grant funding through the Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) program. The efactory at Missouri State University recently received a grant to expand academic projects and connect students with employers and entrepreneurs. The funding for efactory will be for the next three years. MTC has been critical to our success, the growth of our programs and the services were able to provide to entrepreneurs and job creators," said Rachel Anderson, Executive Director, efactory at Missouri State, in a Tuesday news release. This grant award will help us roll out even more entrepreneurial training programs, open doors to real-world learning opportunities and help fill the talent pipeline. Jack Scatizzi, executive director of MTC, said the grant program is designed to expand entrepreneurial capacity within the state. "By strategically investing in entrepreneur support organizations, we aim to ensure entrepreneurs have access to the necessary resources and guidance to grow their businesses in Missouri. Scatizzi added: We are excited to provide funding to support a new student-focused training program being launched through efactory." More: Company offering software training, tech startup help sets up office in MSU's efactory James Stapleton, Codefis President & CEO, said on the biggest challenges tech startups face is attracting customers. Codefis Lead Labs program provides training to university student interns to prospect and qualify B2B leads for startups in our programs," he said, in the release. "Not only do the students learn valuable transferable skills, but they also help local early-stage companies accelerate their growth toward success. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri State efactory gets grant to expand entrepreneurial capacity South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Tuesday that South Africa will hold pivotal national elections on May 29 as polls show the ruling African National Congress may lose its majority for the time since it came to power with the fall of apartheid 30 years ago. Ramaphosa said that Africa's most developed economy faces many problems under his ANC party. South Africa Announces 2024 Elections Date Ramaphosa said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday, "The 2024 elections coincide with South Africa's celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy." The country had its first democratic elections in 1994 following the fall of the racial segregationist system of apartheid that had brutally oppressed Black and other non-white South Africans since 1948. The president claimed that beyond the fulfillment of their constitutional obligation, these upcoming elections are also a celebration of their democratic journey and a determination of the future that they all desire. The statement aligned with what he shared in his State of the Nation Address earlier this month, during which he emphasized the nation's progress over the past three decades and what role his governing party has played. Ramaphosa seeks a second presidential term in a vote that could go down in history. Opinion polls indicate that opposition parties are gaining ground over his African National Congress (ANC) in several areas. According to Al Jazeera, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are the main opposition parties. he ANC has ruled the country since 1994. However, the party is now struggling in the polls, and some analysts predict that this year will mark the first time it will receive lower than the 50% parliamentary majority it has won in previous elections. Read Also: Alabama Supreme Court Defines Frozen Embryos as 'Children' in Landmark Ruling South Africa Urges ICJ To Investigate Israel's Rafah Assault The International Court of Justice (ICJ), a World Court based in The Hague, heard the opening of South Africa's historic case against Israel for its war on Gaza on Thursday. Pretoria is accusing Israel of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention by committing the crime of genocide. The South African team, led by international law expert and attorney John Dugard, stated in a three-hour presentation to the ICJ judges the horrific situation of the Palestinian people in Gaza, who are trapped under siege, bombarded by Israeli air strikes and attacked by a deadly Israeli military ground invasion. The ICJ may take years to reach a final decision. However, the primary focus of this week's proceedings is South Africa's specific request for an emergency order to stop the ongoing killings and destruction in the Gaza Strip. Furthermore, the experts said a temporary sentence could be out in a few weeks. Adila Hassim, one of the South African counsels, noted that while the court may decide to intervene if it determines that at least part of Israel's operations fall under the convention's definition, it is not required for it to decide on the genocide allegations at this time. Related Article: Senegal Court Overturns President's Decree To Postpone Presidential Election Teachers at New Miami Local schools make, on average, $51,345 per year, according to state data. The district is among the state's 20 lowest-paying school systems. Local and national school leaders are concerned about a persistent teacher shortage spurred by mid-career resignations and an ever-dwindling pool of teaching candidates. Experts on a quest to mend the problem often scapegoat low pay, among other challenges for educators. USA TODAY: American classrooms need more educators. Can virtual teachers step in to bridge the gap? But in Cincinnati, the average pay for a public school teacher is well above the living wage. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology's living wage calculator defines a living wage as "what one full-time worker must earn on an hourly basis to help cover the cost of their familys minimum basic needs where they live while still being self-sufficient." In Hamilton County, the living wage for a single adult with no children is $18.86 per hour. For a two-adult household with two kids, if both parents work, the living wage is $25.59 per hour. Cincinnati Public Schools' teachers make, on average, more than $77,000 per year, according to state data. That converts to $37.30 an hour if teachers worked 40-hour weeks every week of the year. Of course, teachers don't work every week of the year, and have the opportunity to make additional funds over the summer by teaching summer school or working other jobs. Not every district in the region boasts high teacher pay. Teachers in southwest Ohio make between $51,000 and $90,000 per year on average, state data shows. Where a particular teacher falls on that scale depends on how long they've been in the profession, how many degrees they have and which district they work for. More: 94% of Ohios teachers are white. Could that change any time soon? Mason City Schools and Indian Hill Exempted Village School District are in the state's top 10 highest-paying school systems. New Miami Local Schools is among the state's 20 lowest-paying districts. The table below shows average teacher salaries for all public school districts in Ohio's Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren counties. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Southwest Ohio: How much is your school district paying its teachers? A landslide on Highway 150 at Bridge Road, north of Santa Paula, has closed the route since Feb. 21. Highway 150 is likely to remain fully closed for weeks north of Santa Paula due to the nature of the active mudslide blocking the route, authorities said Thursday. The stretch is closed in both directions from Steckel Park to Stonegate Road in Santa Paula. The indefinite closure started early Wednesday when a mudslide near Bridge Road, north of city limits, spilled over both lanes of the state route after the latest storm systems drenched already saturated hillsides. Michael Comeaux, a spokesman for the California Department of Transportation, or Caltrans, said Thursday removal of the slide is likely to take weeks based on its volume, the damage it caused and how it will have to be removed. The agency has no estimated reopening date for the highway, he said in an email, adding the closure would likely last "a couple of weeks" or even longer. Since the mud and debris continue to slide onto the roadway, material can't be removed from the bottom because more mud will come down the adjacent hillside, Comeaux said. Instead, material will be taken away from the top of the slide after the ground has dried out enough for work to begin. Thursday's update came after a Caltrans geologist inspected the site Wednesday for a preliminary assessment. Caltrans contractors and other technical experts also weighed in. The blockage has shut the only direct route between Santa Paula and Ojai. Now, drivers who must make the trip will need to loop around through Ventura via Highways 126, 101 and 33 to reconnect with the 150 into Ojai. On average, about 3,250 vehicles a day drive on the now-closed section, Comeaux said. The total includes all vehicles traveling in both directions. North of the closed area, local access is available along the 150 to and from the Ojai Valley. The site first started having problems Monday afternoon, Comeaux said Wednesday, as some material flowed onto the highway during stormy weather. A contractor removed debris and placed K-rail in the area. "Last night, a substantial amount of additional material flowed onto the roadway," Comeaux said Wednesday. The additional flow covered the K-rail and both traffic lanes, he said. A Caltrans photo taken before dawn Wednesday shows a large mass spreading across both lanes. A daytime shot showed mud and debris fully covering the highway at Bridge Road. Aerial photos of the site taken by Caltrans Wednesday show the massive slide had stripped away white fencing from a hillside property. Fallen utility lines are draped over part of the debris pile covering the highway. A deep gouge is visible in the hillside above. Earlier slide near creek Separately, an unrelated slide on the highway about two miles north, south of Thomas Aquinas College, has reduced the two-lane stretch to a single lane with a flagger alternating traffic. There, the northbound lane has been undermined by a sliding slope near Santa Paula Creek, which has caused problems since Friday night, when it completely closed the route for a few hours. County officials issued an evacuation warning for seven structures, primarily due to potential difficulties getting in and out, said Patrick Maynard, director of the Ventura County Office of Emergency Services, on Wednesday. The homes weren't at immediate risk from the mudflow, Maynard said. But authorities don't want anyone getting stuck if they have to get out in an emergency. Maynard said the mudslide had "severely compromised" some power poles. Caltrans crews were working to put up temporary poles, he said. On Wednesday, some 73 customers of Southern California Edison were without power due to the slide, the utility's outage map showed. On Thursday, three customers remained without power, the map showed. This story may be updated. This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Mudslide closes Highway 150 north of Santa Paula indefinitely ALLENTOWN, Pa. (WHTM) Police in Allentown are investigating a shooting that left four people injured on Tuesday evening. According to Muhlenberg College Campus Police, the shooting happened at around 8 p.m. near the campus. In response, the campus was put under lockdown until the incident was deemed complete. During the lockdown, Muhlenberg College Police Officers worked with the Allentown Police Department to respond to the incident. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest Muhlenberg College Police say there is no ongoing threat to the campus community at this time. There is no word on the condition of those who were shot at this time. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Roosevelt High School and Sitton Elementary School were broken into and vandalized with spray paint, fire extinguisher dust and shaving cream on Sunday, officials say. Portland Public Schools spokesperson Valerie Feder told KOIN 6 News that its unclear if one person or multiple people committed the crimes. The vandalism caused the North Portland schools to temporarily close specific areas and change the locations of school activities. However, class schedules were unaffected. At Roosevelt, they discharged a fire extinguisher and left graffiti on various walls, Feder said. One classroom was closed for half a day and a hallway and stairwell were closed for the day. Everything is back to normal today. At Sitton, they discharged a fire extinguisher in the library and cafeteria. Irresponsible and Unacceptable: Vega Pederson announces 4-point AMR plan Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Mike Benner told KOIN 6 News that no arrests have been made in connection to the crimes. Its unclear at this time if anything was stolen during the break-ins. Roosevelt High School Principal KD Parman issued a statement Monday saying that the damage is hurtful to the school community. We are working to get the graffiti and damage cleaned up as quickly as possible, Parman said. We are documenting everything, so there is no need for any students to take photos or videos of the graffiti or the vandalism. Incidents like this are frustrating because we know that our staff and students take pride in our community and our building. Sitton Principal Becky Berry and Assistant Principal David Martinez also issued statements saying that the elementary schools library and cafeteria remain closed because of the extensive damage. Portland Public Schools has contracted with a private company to provide deep cleaning and restoration services in the coming weeks, the statement reads. In the meantime, our school library will be closed and we will continue to serve hot lunch to students in the play court where we have set up cafeteria tables. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. A murder suspect was out on bond his daughter in the yard next to him when he saw men approaching. He put her inside, swapping her for an AK-47 rifle that he fired as a cigar hung from his mouth. He hit homes, cars and one of the men, police said. He was arrested and barely booked when he posted bond. Two months later, he was again in jail for hitting his childs mother, police say. He again quickly posted bond. In court Tuesday, though, a Charlotte judge ruled Michael Withers will go back to jail. This time, hell stay there until a jury decides his fate. Following a battle between prosecutors and his defense attorney, Superior Court Judge Carla Archie revoked Withers bond originally set at $10,000, then raised to $300,000. He was a danger to society, the judge said. Shed just heard details from the 27-year-olds case files, beginning with the 2021 murder of High Point basketball guard Haiishen McIntyre. In August 2021, 12 days after he was released from jail following an earlier domestic violence charge, Withers allegedly shot and killed McIntyre on a Huntersville basketball court, police said. McIntyres fiance, Rosemary Dunning, has been waiting for a trial ever since. Police say High Point University basketball player Haiishen McIntyre died when Michael Withers shot him on a Huntersville basketball court in 2021. Withers will stay in jail until a jury hears his case, which includes murder and multiple other assault charges, a Charlotte judge ruled in Mecklenburg County Courthouse on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Withers court date was the best Tuesday of my life, Dunning said. Because were safe. While Withers was out of jail awaiting trial, he repeatedly contacted and threatened Dunning and McIntyres family, state prosecutor Jennifer Mills told Archie. A second shooting, assault on a female charges Withers was out on bond, the murder charge still looming overhead, when he shot another man Shikese Zontae Mcentyre, 25 outside a Salisbury apartment complex in November. He told police he was defending himself and his family. Mcentryre fired first, Withers said, and it was probably related to gang affiliation. Police charged both Withers and Mcentyre with assault with a deadly weapon, shooting into two occupied dwellings, and shooting into two parked cars. State prosecutor Jennifer Mills told Archie new evidence suggested Withers shot first. Regardless, she said, no shot should have been fired. As a condition of his release, prosecutors previously said, Withers could not be around guns or people who had guns. I dont know what else needs to be shown for yall to realize hes a danger to society, Mills said. In January, police again charged Withers with assault on a female. She had a bloody nose and chest when they arrived, and Withers told her not to press charges, police said. Sent back to jail Withers defense attorney Mary Rogers on Tuesday contended that a jury not a judge should determine her clients time spent in jail. Withers hearings, Mills said, were a direct product of his actions. As an officer handcuffed Withers, leading him out the side door and into the Mecklenburg County Detention Center, he looked at the 11 people sitting in the back of the courtroom. Youre going to have to hold it down for me, he said. Dont forget me. The group filed out of the room, calling the judges ruling unfair. Outside, security waited to escort Dunning and her mother away from the courthouse. Editors Note: This story has been updated to accurately reflect the judicial outcome of Jeremiah Craters 2018 drug charges. JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) A Johnson City woman faces trial this week for the alleged 2020 murder of her 19-month-old baby, while the childs father has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in exchange for a life sentence. Photo: Sapora Walton (courtesy of the Washington County Sheriffs Office) Jury selection in Sapora Waltons trial began Tuesday. Walton, 23, is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse in Samiah Craters Feb. 21, 2020 death at Walton and Jeremiah Craters East Chestnut Street apartment. PREVIOUS: Couple charged with murder of 19-month-old have case bound over to grand jury The child, whom an affidavit claimed weighed just 12 pounds when she died of blunt force injuries, had been removed from the couples home on Aug. 2, 2018, when she was only about a month old. That occurred the day after Johnson City police arrested Crater and Walton and charged them with possessing marijuana for resale. Court records show that after being arraigned on the drug charges in May 2019, Walton had three plea deadlines set prior to Samiah Craters death in August and September 2019 and again in early January 2020. Continuances were granted in each case. Crater pleaded guilty to the schedule VI charges in the drug case and received a one-year sentence that was imposed consecutively to a one-year sentence for theft over $1,000 from an earlier offense. Both are Class E felonies. Friday, Crater pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in Samiah Craters death. The 25-year-old wont be eligible for parole for at least 51 years. Child removed from home at 4 weeks, returned 14 months later Samiah Crater was less than a month old when Johnson City police investigator Will Saulsbury knocked on the door of Jeremiah Crater and Waltons apartment in the Keystone development late the night of Aug. 1, 2018. An affidavit from Saulsbury says he was acting on a tip that a resident was selling marijuana out of the apartment. Photo: Jeremiah Crater (courtesy of the Washington County Sheriffs Office) Crater answered and reportedly told Saulsbury where he could find marijuana. He reportedly found about 2 ounces and more than $1,900 in cash. Crater and Walton were charged that night. The 2020 affidavit charging Walton with murder states that Samiah Crater was in the custody of the Department of Childrens Services (DCS) from August 02, 2018 until October 27, 2019. That document from JCPD Investigator Joe Jaynes includes records from Craters DCS custody showing she was in good health. It says Walton and Crater were the primary caregivers after October 27, 2019 and that they said at the home that there were no known issues with the baby. They never sought any type of medical care for Samiah Crater after she was placed in their care, Jaynes affidavit says, despite the fact she appeared emaciated with ribs and spine clearly visible and sunken cheeks. Up to two weeks has been set aside for Sapora Waltons trial. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. The highly-anticipated series 'Masters of the Air' has soared to unprecedented heights, surpassing all previous records for opening weekend viewership for an Apple TV+ series. According to an announcement made to Variety by Apple, the epic war miniseries, which premiered on January 26, 2024, has outperformed every other show in the platform's history. 'Masters of the Air' Soars to Success While specific viewer numbers were not disclosed by Apple, the magnitude of 'Masters of the Air's' debut surpasses that of other high-profile original titles such as 'Hijack,' 'and The Morning Show.' This remarkable accomplishment underscores the widespread appeal and impact of the series. Following its premiere, 'Masters of the Air' generated a significant increase in viewership across all of Apple TV+, with a remarkable 65% surge compared to the previous week. Executive produced by acclaimed filmmakers Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, the series has been eagerly anticipated since its announcement. Critics and viewers alike have praised the show for its authenticity and emotional depth. Variety's chief TV critic Aramide Tinubu hailed the production as "massive, beautifully rendered and a reminder that war is murderous, gruesome and horrifically human," praising its portrayal of the harsh realities of war. The ensemble cast, featuring talents such as Austin Butler, Ncuti Gatwa, Callum Turner, and Barry Keoghan, delivers powerful performances that resonate with audiences. Read Also: Netflix To Release A Pair Of Shows Focused On The Boston Red Sox 'Masters of the Air' Honors the Heroism of WWII's 100th Bomb Group Serving as a companion to the revered productions 'Band of Brothers' and 'The Pacific,' the series delves into the heroic endeavors of the 100th Bomb Group during World War II's aerial campaigns over Nazi Germany. 'Masters of the Air', adapted from Donald L. Miller's book, immerses audiences in the intense aerial warfare of WWII, showcasing the resilience and heroism and a gripping portrayal of the bravery and sacrifice of the enlisted men of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. As the series continues to unfold, anticipation for each new episode grows, with the finale scheduled to air on March 15. With its record-breaking success and critical acclaim, the show solidifies its place as a landmark achievement in television storytelling. 'Masters of the Air' is available for streaming exclusively on Apple TV+, with new episodes released weekly. Related Article: Disney Facing Potential Split As April Shareholder Meeting Approaches NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones will deliver his inaugural State of the City address on Tuesday, March 5. This years state of the city theme is Building Forward. During his address, Jones will announce a new safety initiative. Several key programs will be implemented to enhance community safety and promote youth engagement over the next year. When I ran for mayor, I asked the citizens of Newport News to Build with Me, and they gave me the incredible responsibility and privilege to serve our city, said Mayor Phillip Jones. I am proud of the projects and strategies we have implemented this year. From dynamic youth programs that are the first in our state to a vibrant arts initiative celebrating our heritage and elevating local artists, Newport News is taking a strategic and focused approach to holistic community development. The event is being coordinated by the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. As the voice of the Peninsula business community and a strong advocate for the regions economic growth, the Virginia Peninsula Chamber looks forward to hosting the Newport News State of the City each year as a forum for the Mayor to share the citys good news and plans, said Bob McKenna, President/CEO of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber. The event will be held at the Freeman Center Field House on the campus of Christopher Newport University. Registration for the event begins at 5:30 p.m. and the Mayors address starts at 6:40 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. New details are being revealed about the suspect in a deadly Colorado university dorm room shooting that left his roommate and another woman dead. In newly unsealed court records, a police detective's affidavit cites roommate disputes between one of the victims, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs senior Samuel Knopp, and the suspect, Nicholas Jordan, 25. Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez previously confirmed to NBC News that suspect Jordan, 25, was the roommate of Knopp. Knopp, 24, and Celie Rain Montgomery, a 26-year-old woman who did not attend the school, were found dead on Feb. 16 at the universitys Crestone House residence. Jordan of Detroit was arrested Feb. 19 on two counts of first-degree murder, police said in a statement. He was a student at the school, according to the university. According to the police detectives affidavit unsealed on Feb. 23, another roommate of Jordan and Knopp's said they had previously had issues with Jordan. He said Knopp had collected a bag of garbage and placed it near the defendants door in January, precipitating a death threat, according to the affidavit. Mr. Jordan threatened Mr. Knopp and told him that he would kill him and there would be consequences if Mr. Jordan was asked to take out the trash again, the affidavit said. The roommate, who reported the gunfire on Feb. 16 and hid in his locked room until police arrived, told investigators that Knopp had filed three complaints with campus police and housing officials previously about Jordan. According to the affidavit, the roommate said he and Knopp had made complaints about Jordans cleanliness, alleged that he smoked marijuana in his room and created unsafe living conditions. Jordan is being held on $5 million bond. NBC News reached out to his public defender but they did not immediately respond to a request for comment. How did the Feb. 16 University of Colorado at Colorado Springs happen? According to the affidavit, Jordan filed a request to withdraw from his classes and campus housing the day before the shooting. The following day, on Feb. 16, an unidentified man entered the dorm complex at 6 a.m., seemingly using Jordan's key card, the affidavit states. Then, 14 minutes later, someone is spotted leaving through the same door and running, according to the affidavit. An arrest warrant for Jordan was issued hours after the shooting occurred, police said. He was taken into custody "without incident" after he was located inside a vehicle around 8 a.m. on Feb. 19. Investigators had previously said they believed the two victims most likely knew the shooter, according to police. Investigative efforts so far continue to indicate this is an isolated incident between parties that were known to one another and not a random attack against the school or other students at the university, police said in a Feb. 19 statement. Police cited an El Paso County coroners office autopsy for the identities of the victims, but their official cause and manner of death have not yet been determined by the coroner's office. Knopp and Montgomery's deaths prompted an hourlong campus lockdown until it was determined there was no active shooter, and their deaths are being investigated as homicides. Here's everything we know so far about the two victims. Samuel Knopp Knopp was originally from Parker, a town about 60 miles north of the school's campus. In the immediate aftermath of the shooting and seemingly before she was made aware of her son's death, Knopp's mother took to Facebook to decry gun violence and lack of stricter firearm regulations. This hits way too close to home and it makes me want to vomit, Amy Elswick Knopp wrote in a post with a 7:46 a.m. timestamp. All the thoughts and prayers in the world mean nothing without action to back them up. Second Amendment rights should not supersede peoples right to be safe at school, in grocery stores, in movie theatres, at church or anywhere else they go. PERIOD. By the evening, comments supporting her stance had shifted to condolences. In a statement, the university's chancellor said Knopp had been a music major. Sam was a senior studying music and a beloved member of the Visual and Performing Arts department, Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet said. He was an accomplished guitar player and an extremely talented musician. A video shared to the UCCS Music Program YouTube page shows Knopp at his junior year recital. Clad in a short-sleeved dress shirt against the backdrop of an evening cityscape, Knopp played guitar alongside several other musicians. He also performed solo at times, switching from acoustic guitar to electric. UCCP senior Haden Gillespie, Knopp's best friend, told NBC News he couldn't have imagined this happening before graduation. "He was probably the most talented guitarist Ive ever met and a talent that was definitely taken from us too soon," Gillespie said. Celie Rain Montgomery Celie Montgomery (Courtesy Colorado Springs Police Department) Less is known at this time about the other victim in the shooting, Montgomery. She was not a student at the university, officials have said, and she lived in nearby Pueblo, Colorado. Her LinkedIn page says she was a health and wellness copywriter. In a statement to NBC News, Pueblo Community College confirmed that Montgomery attended the school's culinary arts program for one semester in the fall of 2020. The Pueblo Community College family extends heartfelt condolences to the family of former PCC student Celie Montgomery, as well as to the family of Samuel Knopp," the Pueblo Community College President Patty Erjavec said in a statement. "These deaths, and the ensuing unimaginable pain, are happening much too often in an environment where teaching and learning should be our only concern." The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs' chancellor also paid tribute to Montgomery in her statement. "Celie, although she was not a student, will be mourned by our campus community," Sobanet said. Classes on campus were canceled on Feb. 20, with a "healing walk" scheduled for the afternoon. CORRECTION (Feb. 27, 2024, 7:56 a.m.): An earlier version of this article misspelled Samuel Knopp's last name. This article was originally published on TODAY.com On Tuesday, a Chilean appeals court in Santiago ordered the reopening of the probe into the death of the leftist poet and Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda in 1973. In 2017, a group of foreign forensic experts suggested that Neruda did not die due to cancer and did not rule out "third parties" being involved in his death during the early days of Augusto Pinochet's 17-year dictatorship. Chile Reopens Probe Over Neruda's Death In a statement, the court said that the investigation has not been exhausted as there are detailed procedures that can be carried out to clarify the facts. Neruda was preparing to go into exile in Mexico to lead the resistance movement against the Pinochet dictatorship when he passed away in a hospital just 12 days after the coup. The government declared that Neruda had died of prostate cancer. The cause of Neruda's death was investigated in 2011 when Manuel Araya, his driver and personal assistant, claimed the poet had received a mysterious injection in his chest just before he passed away. Araya passed away at the age of 77 in June last year. Neruda's remains were reburied after three years after being dug up in 2013 to be tested for traces of poison. A scientific panel investigating Neruda's death in 2023 found that he had dangerous botulism-causing bacteria in his system, but they were unable to determine whether he had been poisoned. Hendrik and Debi Poinar, two panelists from McMaster University in Canada, told AFP they could not explain why Neruda's body had clostridium botulinum DNA. Researchers could only reconstruct a third of the bacterium's genome. However, Poinar was optimistic that it could recreate the remainder without digging up Neruda's remains again. After receiving their results, Judge Paola Plaza ordered the end of the investigation in December 2023. Furthermore, Plaza's final report was never released because Neruda's family and the Communist Party quickly appealed that ruling. Read Also: Neuschwanstein Castle Case: Man Admits to Charges of Murder, Rape of US Tourists Feminists Call Out Neruda Neruda has always been polarizing in Chile, mainly for his left-wing politics. However, he is currently being called out as a male chauvinist and sexual predator by Chile's growing feminist movement. "He's been canceled," Lieta Vivaldi, a human rights activist and member of Chile's Feminist Lawyers Association, said. The latest issue of Neruda, who was the second Chilean to win the Nobel Prize in literature in 1971, sprang up in 2018 with the rise of the #MeToo movement in Chile against sexual abuse. Activists called attention to some unsettling incidents from the poet's past and identified several of Neruda's poems as sexist. Furthermore, Neruda left his only child, Malva Marina, and her mother. His daughter passed away at the age of 8 after being born with hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain that can cause enlargement in the head. Related Article: Biden Urges To Impose New Sanctions on Russia for Alexei Navalny's Death Tricia LaBelle has worked in school kitchens near Portsmouth for years. Shes seen the struggles that accompany families applying for free or reduced-price lunch meals. But it wasnt until her son entered kindergarten that she fully grasped the challenge. I remember getting my first meal application and looking at it, as a person who would have qualified, and thinking, No way how embarrassing, she told lawmakers last month. Id have to fill out this packet and send it back in with him to give to his teacher. Tricia LaBelle, an advocate for New Hampshire Hunger Solutions, speaks in favor of Senate Bill 499, an omnibus bill to expand school meals, on Jan 3, 2024. LaBelle knew the value the application would provide. Depending on their income level, kids on free or reduced-price meal plans pay 40 cents for lunch and 30 cents for breakfast or nothing at all. The full price for lunches in New Hampshire schools can hover around $3 to $4 a day. But LaBelle faced a bigger force: shame. I was way too concerned that his teacher would then label him as a free and reduced child, she said. That was a risk that I wasnt willing to take. In most public schools, this is the only option for eligible families for the meal discounts those making up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level. If they want to save money, they must fill out a physical application and return it to school, often in the hands of an embarrassed child. And LaBelle, who is now an advocate for New Hampshire Hunger Solutions, has seen other challenges. The schools provide breakfasts, but only if the students can get them in time to make their first class. If their bus is late, some kids dont eat until noon. Advocates say there are a number of fixes the state could make to improve the picture. And this year, lawmakers are showing interest. This month, the New Hampshire Senate gave support to a wide-ranging bill to expand public school meals. Senate Bill 499 would increase the number of schools offering breakfast, help subsidize an approach to deliver breakfast between classes, incentivize healthier meals, and allow parents to more easily apply for free and reduced-price meals. The Senate voted unanimously to approve it Thursday. The legislation moves next to the Senate Finance Committee, and will need final approval by the full Senate before heading on to the House. Anti-hunger advocates say action is necessary. The U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey has found that as of October 2023, 44 percent of New Hampshire homes reported having insufficient food, a label that includes those who did not have enough food and those who had enough but not always the kind they wanted. That includes 50 percent of homes with children. Sponsored by Hopkinton Democratic Sen. Becky Whitley and Bedford Republican Sen. Denise Ricciardi, SB 499 requires all school districts to make both breakfast and lunch available at school. Currently, state statute only requires at least one meal to be served. A childs brain is built from the bottom up, with strong foundations essential to later physical, cognitive. and emotional well-being, said Ricciardi. We must ensure that early environments are working to support strong foundations. Thats why school meals are critical to young children. The bill would also help school districts implement an approach to nutrition known as breakfast after the bell. That approach allows students to get breakfast between their first class and lunch, eliminating the need to arrive at school earlier and eat it then. Under the bill, schools that want to launch that program would get reimbursement for any necessary equipment from the states Department of Education provided that at least 40 percent of their students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. SB 499 requires that all school districts participate in the National School Breakfast Program unless the district has its own breakfast program or has fewer than 10 percent of its students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The bill also requires those districts that do participate in the program to collect statistics on how many students eat them. The bill gives incentives to schools that improve the nutritional quality of their meals. Those schools that have adopted a school wellness policy, a document outlining how to promote student health, and who have met the U.S. Department of Agricultures child nutrition requirements for their meals could get reimbursement for the meals they serve from the Department of Education. The legislation also seeks to make the process of applying for free or reduced-price meals easier for parents: It would require school districts to offer both online and physical applications in an effort to give parents more flexibility. That application process has been politically contentious. During the COVID-19 pandemic, New Hampshire schools used federal funds to provide universal school meals, and lower-income parents did not need to apply. Now, families eligible for the subsidized meals once again need to apply. Republican lawmakers have opposed allowing New Hampshire to participate in Medicaid Direct Certification, a program that would let schools automatically enroll children into the program by determining their income from state Medicaid data. And the bill requires the state Department of Education to participate in the Summer EBT program, which lets families eligible for free or reduced-price meals to continue receiving benefits on an EBT card through the summer. The costs of the bill are still being worked out, Whitley said at a hearing. As currently written, the bill funds several of the initiatives with $1 a placeholder amount that allows the governor to request to draw on more funds in the future. To New Hampshire Hunger Solutions Director Laura Milliken, the states school meal supply acts like a power grid. Every school in the state provides meals, she told lawmakers last month. But not all have the best infrastructure to do it. And while the federal government has made funding available for meals for lower-income families, the actual participation in those programs in the Granite State can be low. The federal nutrition programs that exist to help people in need are poorly connected within New Hampshire, Milliken said. Other advocacy organizations have rallied behind the bill, arguing in testimony that its benefits could extend beyond the states schools. Nancy Vaughan, government relations director for the American Heart Association in New Hampshire, praised the incentives for nutritious food and said healthy eating habits benefit kids into adulthood. Dawn McKinney, policy director at New Hampshire Legal Assistance, said the organization supports any easing in applications for food benefit programs, noting that students in families who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) automatically receive free and reduced-price lunches. When Renee Berkley moved to Alstead from Utah and began volunteering in the school system, she was surprised at the amount of hardship she saw. All I kept thinking was the Aerosmith song Livin on the Edge, she told lawmakers. Theres so many families living on the edge that are barely making ends meet. Berkley pointed to other New England states, such as Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont, that surround New Hampshire and currently provide free meals to all public school students. So what message are you sending people who moved to New Hampshire like myself? she said. What is your priority? Is it live free and die? Is it live free and be poor and hungry? Or can we turn this around? This story was originally published by the New Hampshire Bulletin. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Will NH bipartisan school meals bill help prevent child hunger? Ten of Idahos 15 best public elementary schools are in the Treasure Valley, according to school-ranking site Niche. After analyzing data and reviews of the states 438 public elementary schools, Niche graded each school for its academics, diversity and teachers. The 2023 report ranked Legacy Charter School in Nampa as the best public elementary school in the state. Legacy Charter School has a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1 and earned an overall grade of A in the Niche ranking. Legacy Charter earned an A+ rating for teachers, an A in academics and a B in diversity. According to state test scores, 77% of students are at least proficient in math and 77% in reading, Niche reports. Niche grades and analyzes schools and neighborhoods throughout the U.S. using data from the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Census and FBI, plus more than 100 million reviews and survey responses from students, parents and residents to rank schools in every county and city in the country. We get deep, too, asking questions about everything from college prep to cafeteria food, Niche states on its website. Though quality data is a priority, at Niche, we know that a school is more than a collection of stats. Niche also looks at each schools academics and culture. Academic Grade: Based on state assessment proficiency and survey responses on academics from students and parents. Teacher Grade: Based on teacher salary, teacher absenteeism, state test results and survey responses on teachers from students and parents. District Grade: Based on rigorous academic and student life data analysis and millions of reviews from students and parents. Culture & Diversity Grade: Based on racial and economic diversity and survey responses from students and parents on school culture and diversity. Parent/Student Surveys Grade: Niche survey responses scored on a 1-5 scale regarding the overall experience of students and parents from the school. It is worth noting that Niche rankings are calculated using public data and reviews from the public and alumni and should not be taken as definitive rankings. Top public elementary schools in Ada County Here are the top 15 public elementary schools in Ada County, according to Niche: Legacy Charter School (1st), Liberty Charter School (3rd) and Gem Prep Online (12th) all ranked within the top 15 schools in Idaho but are not listed below because they are in Canyon County. 1 - Falcon Ridge Public Charter School Falcon Ridge Public Charter Local Education Authority 308 students, student-teacher ratio of 26 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 2 - Sage International School Boise Sage International School District 1,078 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A- Diversity: A- Teachers: A+ 3 - Highlands Elementary School Boise School District 280 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: C+ Teachers: A+ 4 - Collister Elementary School Boise School District 280 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: C+ Teachers: A+ 5 - Discovery Elementary School West Ada School District 280 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: B- Teachers: A+ 6 - Roosevelt Elementary School Boise School District 276 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 7 - Eagle Elementary School of the Arts West Ada School District 295 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 8 - Pioneer School of the Arts West Ada School District 295 students, student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B- Teachers: A+ 9 - Barbara Morgan STEM Academy West Ada School District 412 students, student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 10 - Cecil D. Andrus Elementary School West Ada School District 464 students, student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B- Teachers: A+ 11 - Galileo Magnet School West Ada School District 729 students, student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: C+ Teachers: A 12 - Adams Elementary School Boise School District 278 students, student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B- Teachers: A 13 - Pleasant View Elementary School West Ada School District 729 students, student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 14 - Eagle Hills Elementary School West Ada School District 556 students, student-teacher ratio of 20 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B Teachers: A+ 15 - Paramount Elementary School West Ada School District 497 students, student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1 Overall grade: A- Academics: A Diversity: B- Teachers: A Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley is siding with the Alabama Supreme Courts controversial ruling last week that legally equates embryos with children. Embryos, to me, are babies, the former South Carolina governor said in an interview with NBC News Ali Vitali published Wednesday. When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, thats a life. And so I do see where thats coming from when they talk about that. When Vitali asked Haley for her thoughts on the chilling effect the decision could have on access to fertility treatments, Haley said it was necessary to look at the details in the Alabama ruling and to continue to have conversations with women and doctors because its a sensitive topic. She said she hadnt seen specifics from Alabama. Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022 with the U.S. Supreme Courts decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health, reproductive rights advocateshave warned that fertility treatments could be targeted by anti-abortion conservatives who believe that life begins at conception. The Alabama Supreme Courts Friday decision, which was articulated in a ruling that referenced theological language from the states constitution, has had a swift impact. On Wednesday, the University of Alabama at Birmingham became the first IVF clinic to pause its services amid concerns that patients or physicians could face legal trouble. While Haley has been lauded as a moderate GOP primary presidential candidate, she has also backed and proposed legislation that would restrict reproductive rights, according to December 2023 reporting by NBC News. Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) criticized Haleys take on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday. Republicans call her a moderate on reproductive rights their party has been completely taken over by MAGA extremism and women will suffer as a result of their policies. https://t.co/nGTNC7Zp7S Tina Smith (@TinaSmithMN) February 21, 2024 Related... Russian President Vladimir Putin made a mockery of Ukraine's "flight" after Russia's military victory in taking the city of Avdiivka and threatened to advance his forces farther into the nation. Russia captured the frontline city last week, marking a symbolic victory for Putin's invasion before the second anniversary of the offensive. Putin Acknowledges Success Amidst Ongoing Conflict The Russian military ministry recently released a television video that showed the terrible damage done to the town of Avdiivka in the continuing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Almost every residence in the vicinity displays the remnants of conflict, as structures are etched with the ongoing struggle that has taken place on its roads. Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on the situation, stating that the Ukrainian order to withdraw from Avdiivka was issued after their troops had already begun chaotic retreats. Putin acknowledged the success in capturing the town but emphasized the need for a well-prepared development, including personnel, weapons, equipment, and ammunition. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed regret over the loss of Avdiivka, linking it to the delayed arrival of essential weapons because the US Congress has not yet approved a significant aid package. Kuleba shared his worries about Russia's lack of desire to pause or withdraw, emphasizing the pressing need for swift action. The US Senate recently passed a $95 billion aid package, including funds for Ukraine. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson has not brought it up for a vote, exacerbating the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy appointed a new commander to lead the Ukrainian military last week, as the nation grapples with Russia's continuous aggression. The conflict has seen both sides claiming significant losses, further intensifying the already dire situation, according to Reuters. Read Also: Biden Administration Promises 'Major Sanctions' on Russia Over Navalny Death Resistance Against Russian Advances in Krynky Avdiivka, also known as Avdeyevka in Russian, has been a focal point in the conflict, enduring a decade of strife. Its symbolic significance for Russia dates back to 2014 when Moscow-backed separatists briefly took control. Ukrainian forces later recaptured the town, constructing extensive fortifications. Located in the industrial Donbas region, north of Donetsk, the town is famous for being the site of one of Europe's largest Soviet-era coke plants. The town has been severely impacted by the recent violence, as evidenced by the damaged church cupola, debris-filled roads, and shattered apartment buildings. Russia's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced the control of the village of Krynky in Ukraine's southern Kherson region. However, Ukraine's southern military command reported successfully holding positions on the left bank of the River Dnipro against Russian attacks. Simultaneously, Ukraine claimed to have destroyed all 23 drones launched by Russia overnight in various regions. The military announced the successful interception of the drones in Kharkiv, Poltava, Kirovohrad, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Mykolaiv. The results of the current argument for Avdiivka are essential, as per Ukraine's military spokesperson, who reported that more than 17,000 Russian soldiers lost their lives, with an extra 30,000 sustaining injuries throughout the five-month-long conflict. If this number is correct, it exceeds the number of personnel Russia lost during a ten-year occupation of Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989. The whole community follows the conflict closely in the hopes that it will finish and that the agony of those caught in the middle of it will cease, The Independent reported. Related Article: Honduras Ex-President Faces Drug Trafficking Trial in US The number of casualties caused by the 20 February Russian attack on Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast, has increased to seven, with rescue operations underway to find a person trapped under the rubble. Source: Oleksandr Honcharenko, Mayor of Kramatorsk Quote: "As a result of yesterday's Russian missile attack on the city, there are seven casualties (six women, one man). Medical assistance is being provided to all. There is a possibility that another person is trapped under the rubble." Details: Honcharenko emphasised that the search operation is ongoing. Background: On 20 February, the Russians attacked the city of Kramatorsk in Donetsk Oblast and struck an industrial and a residential area. Six people were reported injured. Support UP or become our patron! Nvidia chief Jensen Huang says demand for chips to power artificial intelligence in datacenters and elsewhere is fierce, boding well for the Silicon Valley company (JUSTIN SULLIVAN) Nvidia on Wednesday said its profit soared to $12.3 billion in the recently ended quarter on record high revenue driven by demand for its chips to power artificial intelligence. The Silicon Valley chip titan reported profit of $12.3 billion on record revenue of $22.1 billion in the quarter than ended late January and record high revenue of $60.9 billion for the fiscal year. Profit in the same quarter a year ago was $1.4 billion, while revenue in the same three-month period a year earlier was $6 billion, the company said. "Accelerated computing and generative AI have hit the tipping point," Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said during an earnings call. "Demand is surging worldwide across companies, industries and nations." Nvidia shares shot up more than eight percent to $732.99 in after-market trade that followed the release of the earnings results. "The AI Revolution starts with Nvidia and in our view the AI party is just getting started," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said in a note to investors. Wedbush expects 60 percent or more of businesses to "head down the AI use case path" in the coming decade, spending an estimated trillion dollars on the technology, according to Ives. Money taken in by the Nvidia unit specializing in data center computing hit a record of $18.4 billion in the quarter, more than quadruple the amount from the same period a year earlier, according to Nvidia. "Our Data Center platform is powered by increasingly diverse drivers," Huang said. "Vertical industries led by auto, financial services and healthcare are now at a multibillion-dollar level." The company said it expects total revenue of $24 billion in the current quarter. - 'AI factories' - Huang said Nvidia chips are at the heart of datacenters transforming into "AI generation factories" with data a "raw material" turned into experiences such as prompt-generated videos made using OpenAI's new Sora tool. In regions outside the United States, "sovereign AI" systems are adding to demand for Nvidia chips, according to chief financial officer Colette Kress. She described sovereign AI as large language models made using regional data and supported by local research and business "ecosystems." Sovereign AI infrastructure is being bult in Canada, France, Japan and many other countries, according to Huang. "The reason for sovereign AI has to do with the fact that the language, the knowledge, the history, the culture of each region are different and it belongs to them," Huang said on the earnings call. "They would like to use their data to create their own digital intelligence." - China reset - Demand for Nvidia chips for datacenters was strong everywhere except China, where revenue dropped significantly following ramped up US export controls imposed in October of last year, according to Kress. Calls to further close the supply chain grew after the world discovered the powers of AI with the launch of ChatGPT, a tool that debuted in November 2022. Also causing alarm in Washington was news that China-owned Huawei had released a new smartphone that featured a powerful home-grown advanced chip. When announcing the beefed-up curbs, US officials insisted they were intended to close loopholes and prevent China's development of AI for military use. China said at the time that it was "strongly dissatisfied" and "firmly opposes" the curbs. Nvidia paused shipments of restricted products to China, but is exploring selling alternatives that don't require licenses, according to company executives. "We reconfigured our products in a way that is not software hackable, and that took some time," Huang said. "So we reset our product offering to China and now we're sampling to customers in China. US export control regulations aimed at China and other markets including Vietnam and parts of the Middle East were expected to continue to cause sales of Nvidia data center chip to suffer in those markets. gc/dw New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) is prepared to seize former President Trumps assets if he does not pay the nearly $355 million verdict levied against him in a civil business fraud trial last week, she told ABC News on Tuesday. If he does not have funds to pay off the judgment, then we will seek judgment enforcement mechanisms in court, and we will ask the judge to seize his assets, she told ABC News. The $355 million verdict and additional $100 million in prejudgment interest handed down Friday are the largest financial penalty levied against Trump and his companies amid his various legal cases. Legal experts have speculated that the massive penalty could require Trump to sell some of his real estate empire. Trumps attorneys have vowed to appeal the case, accusing Judge Arthur Engoron of judicial malpractice and labeling the case politically motivated. Trump attorney Alina Habba called the verdict manifest injustice and the culmination of a multi-year, politically fueled witch hunt that was designed to take down Donald Trump. James said she is confident that she will succeed in appeal, and listed Trumps 40 Wall Street tower by name as one asset that could be taken. We are prepared to make sure that the judgment is paid to New Yorkers, and yes, I look at 40 Wall Street each and every day, she said. Trump and his company were found liable for business fraud, specifically manipulating the value of assets in order to garner favorable insurance rates and loan terms. The verdict also bans Trump from working in New York real estate for three years. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The City Council moved Wednesday to join a lawsuit that seeks to force Mayor Adams to implement a set of laws designed to make it easier for low-income New Yorkers to access the citys rental assistance program. The Manhattan Supreme Court lawsuit was first filed last week by four New Yorkers at risk of homelessness whod become eligible for the voucher program, CityFHEPS, if the mayor allowed the laws to take effect. The laws would expand access to the program, which subsidizes rent on open market apartments, by increasing an income eligibility cap and eliminating a rule that requires beneficiaries to enter a homeless shelter before they can apply, among other provisions. The Council which passed the laws last summer and then overrode the mayors vetoes of them filed a motion Wednesday morning to become a plaintiff in the suit alongside the four CityFHEPS applicants. The motion, which needs to be approved by a judge, argues that by not implementing the CityFHEPS reforms the mayor is not just depriving more New Yorkers of rental vouchers but also violating the City Charter. Because the Council validly enacted the CityFHEPS reform laws, the mayor is now legally required by the Charter to implement them. But he refuses to do so, the motion states. His refusal not only deprives New Yorkers of housing benefits to which they are entitled under the law; it usurps the powers of the Council, a co-equal branch of city government, and it upends the separation of powers enshrined in the City Charter. Kayla Mamelak, a spokeswoman for the mayor, said City Hall will review the filing from the Council. The mayor has argued the laws would be too expensive, predicting theyd cost the city $17 billion over the next five years, and worsen existing CityFHEPS processing backlogs. He says that price tag is an unmanageable budgetary burden at a time that the city is under fiscal strain due to an influx of migrants. Lisa Zornberg, Adams City Hall counsel, said in a briefing Tuesday that the mayors administration also believes the reforms overstep the Councils legal authority. However well intended they were in passing the law, its our belief as a legal matter that that law goes beyond the City Councils authority and that its actually preempted by existing state law, Zornberg told reporters at City Hall. So, there are significant legal issues and they will play out in court. The Council has said the mayors price tag for the laws is exaggerated. According to a financial impact statement compiled by the Councils economists, the laws will cost $3.3 billion over five years and could actually produce savings in the long run by decreasing the local homeless shelter population. In Wednesdays motion, the Council also panned Zornbergs claim about the CityFHEPS reforms exceeding the legislative chambers authority. These arguments lack merit, the motion stated. More fundamentally, if the mayor believed that the reform laws were unlawful, he should have taken his concerns up with the courts himself. Instead, he unilaterally decided the reform laws were invalid and that he would not implement them, and in doing so, usurped the role of the judiciary. This cannot be the way that disputes between the political branches are addressed. The Legal Aid Society, which is representing the four CityFHEPS applicants who brought the lawsuit against the mayor, lauded the Council for filing this motion to intervene to help us hold Mayor Adams and his administration accountable for illegally refusing to implement the reforms. The feud over the rental voucher forms comes as the citys housing crisis is deepening. The city shelter population is at an all-time high, in large part due to the migrant influx, while rents and evictions continue to go up. A recently released study shows the citys apartment vacancy rate, meantime, is at just 1.4%, the lowest since 1968. The vacancy rate is even lower for the most affordable apartments. The Council argues thats why its critical to enact the CityFHEPS reforms, which would allow low-income New Yorkers to use a rent demand from a landlord as grounds to apply for a voucher as long as they satisfy other eligibility requirements related to income and employment. By keeping low-income New Yorkers in their homes with vouchers, the city can prevent more New Yorkers from joining the pool of those in need of housing assistance in searching and competing for a limited supply of housing, the Council said in a statement. The New York Times has published an article claiming that "hundreds of Ukrainian troops may have been captured or disappeared" during the recent withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Avdiivka. Source: The New York Times; Dmytro Lykhovii, Head of the Public Relations Department of the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group, on air during the 24/7 national joint newscast Details: The New York Times cites "two soldiers with knowledge of Ukraines retreat" as the source of this information. These two soldiers said that it could be 850-1,000 of their brothers-in-arms. "The Western officials said that range seemed accurate," the publication said. Commenting on this data, the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group said that the New York Times had spread the Russian narrative without any justification. Quote from Lykhovii: "We were unpleasantly surprised by this article because we gave our commentary on this matter, which was based on some facts and it seemed that everything should make perfect sense. But unfortunately, either deliberately or accidentally, the New York Times spread the Russian narrative without any justification. The sources they cite are completely unreliable because there are no such people and those are not facts. During the final stage of the Avdiivka defence operation, the Ukrainian Armed Forces did not hide or deny that a number of soldiers did not get in touch [with their command]. They are missing, they may be prisoners of war, but some of them end up on our side, who then get in touch and go to their units. Russian propaganda statements about hundreds and thousands of prisoners are complete disinformation, which is not confirmed by anything." Background: On 17 February, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi announced the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Avdiivka. On the same day, the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade reported that most of the Ukrainian military had left Avdiivka and there was no information about large number of Ukrainian captives. Support UP or become our patron! Components from North Korean ballistic missile remnants found in Ukraine bore marks of US and European based businesses, according to a weapons tracking group on February 20. According to the Conflict Armament Research (CAR) report, North Korea has managed to acquire Western components for its weapons despite strict sanctions. These weapons are reportedly being utilized by Moscow in the conflict with Ukraine, as per Straits Times. North Korea's US Tech Dependency The UK-based investigative organization Conflict Armament Research (CAR) has uncovered evidence of North Korea's extensive use of foreign technology, particularly components from the United States, in its missile program. The findings, based on the examination of remnants from a North Korean ballistic missile recovered in Ukraine, highlight the persistent challenge faced by the Biden administration in preventing Western-made microelectronics from being diverted to countries like North Korea, Iran, and Russia for military purposes. Upon examination of 290 components from the missile, analysts discovered that more than 75% were designed and sold by US-based companies. Furthermore, 16% of the components came from European companies, with the remaining 9% from Asian companies. The missile's navigation system, a crucial component, was mainly obtained from companies based in various countries including the US, China, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, and Taiwan. This discovery echoes CAR's previous findings that the majority of components inside Iranian-made attack drones, utilized by Russia in Ukraine, were also manufactured by US companies. Despite extensive sanctions and export controls, the Biden administration faces challenges in preventing the diversion of technology intended for civilian use to countries with military ambitions. The report does not name specific companies responsible for the components, as there is no evidence of deliberate shipment to North Korea. Instead, the components likely entered the global supply chain and were diverted at some point before reaching international distributors. CAR emphasizes working with the companies to address the issue rather than publicly shaming them, according to CNN News. Read Also: Use of 3D Printing in Construction Gets Major Boost in Dubai North Korea's Swift Missile Deployment North Korea has proven its ability to quickly produce and deploy missiles using components made between 2021 and 2023. This specific missile, which Russia deployed in Ukraine in January, indicates the difficulties of regulating the movement of commercial electronics, especially semiconductor components, throughout the intricate global supply chain. According to the report, North Korea has effectively built a strong purchase network, managing to avoid detection and bypass sanctions that have been in place for almost twenty years. The results indicate concerns about the effectiveness of existing strategies to manage the spread of military technology, as well as the obstacles faced by the US and its partners. While North Korea continues to supply missiles to Russia, the Biden administration has faced obstacles in providing new weaponry and equipment to the Ukrainian military due to a lack of approved supplemental funding from Congress. Recent missile attacks across seven regions of Ukraine have sparked concerns regarding the accuracy and impact of North Korean missiles. The strikes resulted in civilian casualties, prompting investigations into the possible use of North Korean missiles in certain cases, such as an airstrike near the town of Bucha. The broader implications of North Korea's reliance on foreign technology for its missiles extend beyond the Ukrainian theater, with South Korea and Japan keenly observing to enhance their defense capabilities. Military experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive understanding of missile capabilities, challenging the narrative presented by North Korean state media, CNN News reported. Related Article: Nuclear Win - 'Oppenheimer' Bags 7 BAFTA Nods, Including Best Picture Former President Obama disagreed with then-Vice President Biden that Russia should "pay in blood and money" after it invaded Crimea in 2014, according to a new book. An excerpt from "The Internationalists: The Fight to Restore Foreign Policy After Trump" by Politico's Alexander Ward revealed a disagreement that took place behind closed doors between Obama and Biden when Russian forces invaded Crimea and later annexed the peninsula, making it a part of Russia. "The Obama administration did little in response except to provide Ukraine with defensive weapons, sanction the Kremlin, and kick Russia out of the Group of Eight, turning the G8 into the G7," writes Ward. "The United States might have done more had Barack Obama's vice president, Joe Biden, been in charge. Russia should 'pay in blood and money' for its actions, Biden told his boss as the 2014 invasion began. Obama disagreed, but he made Biden his effective ambassador to Ukraine during the crisis." BIDEN PRIVATELY DEFIANT THAT HE DIDN'T BOTCH AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL: BOOK Former President Obama and President Biden Later, Obama told Biden not to "overpromise anything" to Ukraine, the book states. But the chasm between the two continued to widen as Biden continued to foster his alliance by further pledging his support for the Eastern European nation. As vice president, he traveled to Ukraine six times, with five visits occurring after the 2014 Maidan protests, the book notes. In Kyiv, alongside then-President Petro Poroshenko, Biden backed Ukraine's quest for independence from Russia just three days before Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20, 2017. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "Ukraine, like every country in Europe, has a right to determine its own path. Yet Russia seeks to deny that choice. And the international community must continue to stand as one against Russian aggression and coercion," Biden said. "Its no secret that Russia does not want you to succeed. Its not just about Ukraine. Its about the future we have long sought of a Europe whole, free, and at peace whole, free, and at peace something that is in the vital national interest of both the United States and all Europeans." BIDEN PRIVATELY DEFIANT THAT HE DIDN'T BOTCH AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL: BOOK In a 2014 interview with The Atlantic, Obama said he saw no benefit in the U.S. getting involved in the unfolding events in Europe related to Russia and Ukraine. "The fact is that Ukraine, which is a non-NATO country, is going to be vulnerable to military domination by Russia no matter what we do," Obama said. "This is an example of where we have to be very clear about what our core interests are and what we are willing to go to war for." Between 2014 and Dec. 27, 2023, the U.S. sent more than $47 billion in security aid to Ukraine to counter Russian aggression and improve NATO ties. The Biden administration has contributed about $44.2 billion since February 2022, according to a recent congressional report. RUSSIA ARRESTS DUAL US-RUSSIAN CITIZEN FOR ALLEGEDLY TRYING TO RAISE FUNDS FOR UKRAINE'S MILITARY: REPORT Biden has been urging Congress to pass a supplemental funding package to continue assisting Ukraine since last October. Last week, the Senate passed a $95 billion national security supplemental package to assist Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific after a tedious procedural process. The package includes $60 billion for Ukraine, $14 billion for Israel, $9 billion in humanitarian assistance for Gaza and nearly $5 billion for the Indo-Pacific. CANADA SENDING MORE THAN 800 DRONES TO UKRAINE TO SUPPORT ITS FIGHT AGAINST RUSSIA "I applaud the bipartisan coalition of Senators who came together to advance this agreement, and I urge the House to move on this with urgency. We cannot afford to wait any longer," Biden said in a statement about the bill. "The costs of inaction are rising every day, especially in Ukraine. Already, we are seeing reports of Ukrainian troops running out of ammunition on the front lines as Russian forces continue to attack and Putin continues to dream of subjugating the Ukrainian people." "There are those who say American leadership and our alliances and partnerships with countries around the world do not matter. They do. If we do not stand against tyrants who seek to conquer or carve up their neighbors' territory, the consequences for America's national security will be significant." Original article source: Obama balked at Biden's assertion that Russia should 'pay in blood and money' after 2014 invasion: book Raquel Ukeles of Israel's national library looks at a screen bearing the portraits of Israelis killed during the October 7 attack (AHMAD GHARABLI) Rockets at dawn, gunfire outside, hours of anxiety: a survivor of the October 7 attack shared his account of the day Gaza militants stormed his southern Israeli community, speaking into a video camera. Arnon Avni's story is one of several hundred witness accounts of the deadly Hamas attack being collected by Israel's national library in partnership with local and international initiatives. He was speaking recently at Nirim kibbutz, about two kilometres (a mile) from the Gaza Strip, often interrupted by the sound of nearby fighting more than four months into the Israel-Hamas war. Avni, 70, a graphic designer and caricaturist, said he had spent 10 hours hiding in a safe room with his grandchildren as militants rampaged through the small village, killing five kibbutz residents, kidnapping five others and torching homes. Three of those captives have been freed, while Nirim -- like most Israeli communities near the Gaza border -- has remained largely deserted since the devastating attack. Avni, who had spent his entire life in Nirim, chose to return more than a month ago, joining just a handful of kibbutz residents. "I'm not a hero," Avni told AFP. "It's my place here." He was sharing his story with volunteers with "Edut 710", or "Testimony October 7", one of several projects gathering witness accounts, online videos, photographs and even WhatsApp messages that tell the story of the attack. During the interview, Avni recalled a moment of joy, snapping a selfie with his granddaughter on his shoulders right after Israeli soldiers had finally rescued them. "We were smiling, because we still didn't know what had happened," he said. A few minutes later, he saw other survivors crying at the kibbutz's community centre. - 200,000 videos - The "Edut 710" project is one of several dozen initiatives feeding a "massive" database set up by the National Library of Israel, said Raquel Ukeles, the institution's head of collections. "After October 7, when we recovered from the initial shock and we realised the enormity of the catastrophe that had befallen this country, we started to collect," Ukeles told AFP. On that day, Palestinian militants breached the heavily militarised Gaza border, launching an attack that resulted in the deaths of more than 1,160 people, mostly civilians, in Israeli towns, villages, army bases, a desert rave and other sites, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. About 250 Israelis and foreigners were abducted into Gaza, of whom Israel says 130 remain in captivity including two from Nirim. Thirty are presumed dead. Israel responded with a massive military campaign in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip which has killed more than 29,000 people, most of them women and children, according to the territory's health ministry. Testimonies of the October 7 attack -- the deadliest in Israel's 75-year history -- as well as images of torture and killing captured on Hamas fighters' body cameras and phones were widely shared on social media almost instantly. Collecting the vast online material was an urgent task "because we realised that they were disappearing", said Ukeles. In the first three weeks after October 7, the library had received 200,000 video clips, she said. Ukeles expects a total of around 60 terabytes of material to be collected, analysed and archived -- a task that would take years to complete. - Battling 'denial' online - Some of the digital evidence includes messages sent by victims as the attack unfolded. One of the projects partnering with the national library, "Memorial 710", has also collated some of the frenzy of WhatsApp messages sent by panicked residents moments before they were killed in Beeri kibbutz, the hardest hit community with nearly 100 deaths. As times passes and the initial shock gradually subsides, more witnesses are willing to speak. Steven Spielberg's USC Shoah Foundation, one of the Israeli national library's international partners, has recorded the testimonies of about 400 people who had witnessed mass killings and abductions. It was "a mass atrocity", said Robert Williams, executive director of the foundation and UNESCO chair on anti-Semitism and Holocaust research. "It's the largest anti-Semitic attack since the Shoah," he said, using another term for the Holocaust. To him, it is imperative to collect evidence of the brutality of the attack, saying he was "shocked and surprised at how quickly denial of these events began to appear on social media". Ukeles said that the "massive amount of documentary evidence of what actually happened is in itself the evidence against those who deny". "If we do our work well", she added, "the people who want to make the case for history can do their work well". dms/mib/emd/cn/ami/dv HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WETM) An Odessa man has been indicted on a drug charge following an incident that occurred back in November. According to the Chemung County District Attorneys Office, Howard B. Clugstone of Odessa was indicted on the charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree by a grand jury in Chemung County Court. Elmira man indicted on drug charges, assault charge The indictment states that around Nov. 26, 2023, Clugstone had half an ounce of a substance that included meth while in the town of Horseheads. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. DESOTO COUNTY, Miss. (WREG) A suspect and a K-9 are dead after an officer-involved shooting on Highway 61 near the Desoto County/Tunica County line Wednesday afternoon, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation says. Deputies have not identified the person who was killed, but the family on the scene has identified him as 38-year-old Jamarcus Brown. He is a father to three children. The shooting happened near Highway 61 south of MS 3 in Lake Cormorant. According to MBI, deputies with the sheriffs department were involved in a vehicle pursuit when they initiated a PIT maneuver on the suspects vehicle. Download the WREG App today and stay up to date with breaking news and weather. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South. When the vehicle came to a stop, a K-9 was released and the suspect fired a shot, striking the K-9. MBI said deputies then discharged their weapons, striking and killing the suspect. The officers involved were not seriously injured. The K-9 received serious injuries and was treated at a local veterinary hospital, but later died. MBI says they are investigating the incident and will share their findings with the Attorney Generals Office. Browns mom says that this all played out on Facebook live and what the family is hearing from MBI doesnt add up. WREG is there and will provide updates as we get them. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. NEW BEDFORD Since 1993, the Mass. Education Reform Law has required public school students in the state to pass the standardized MCAS test to graduate high school. In the years since, there's been no shortage of complaints and pushback from educators and the public about the test's high-stakes nature. Now, many appear eagerly hopeful that the Thrive Act (Senate Bill S.246, House Bill H.495) currently before the Mass. Legislature's Joint Committee on Education would keep MCAS testing but eliminate its "high stakes" element, meaning it would no longer prevent students from graduating high school, nor would it subject schools to state receivership. The legislation would also form a commission that would determine how to best establish a new assessment system in the future. If the Thrive Act falls short in the legislature or otherwise fails to gain final approval by Gov. Maura Healey in spring when she's expected to make the decision, there's also a ballot question initiative afoot as a backup that if passed by voters would still eliminate MCAS as a graduation requirement. According to Dr. Cynthia Roy, co-chair of New Bedford Coalition to Save Our Schools, New Bedford ranked among the top five Mass. communities in terms of number of signatures collected in support of the ballot initiative. As outlined by Roy, if legislators take no action by the end of April, another 12,500 signatures will need to be certified by July for the ballot question to be in place for voters in the fall. New Bedford locals send messages of support While local officials' opinions hold no weight over whether or not the bill moves forward, New Bedford City Council and School Committee members decided to take a pronounced public stance in support of its passage recently, when they voted to officially declare their position on Thrive Act by resolution earlier this month. The two public bodies' resolutions puts them in line with local educators and parents who've expressed concerns with the MCAS graduation requirement over recent months, and throughout the years. Stay current: Lafrance Hospitality buys building on Bethel Street in New Bedford: What is in their plans "There are many folks who agree that testing is necessary to measure where kids are but it's the requirement for the high school diploma that we're looking to eliminate," said Lisa Lemieux, who, as its president, spoke at the February School Committee meeting on behalf of the Greater Southeastern Mass. Labor Council. According to Lemieux, there were over 135,000 signatures submitted petitioning for the MCAS graduation requirement ballot question. "More than any other ballot initiative this election cycle," she said, noting 1,782 New Bedford signatures. "As has been stated many times, this started as a trial more than 20 years ago. We are only one of eight states that still has this requirement." In addition to Greater Southeastern Mass. Labor Council, Lemieux listed off a number of other groups that support nixing the MCAS grad requirement, including the Massachusetts Teachers Association, American Federation of Teachers-Massachusetts, and the Boston Teachers Union. "I knew a lot of students that were dropping out after they failed the MCAS in 10th grade because they were like, I'm not going to graduate anyways," said first-year New Bedford High geometry teacher and 2019 graduate Taryn Padilla. "Now teaching geometry, I see everyday how the constraints and pressure of this test are not only hindering student engagement in classes but hindering teachers' ability to actually create engaging lessons.... "There are a lot more important things students should learn by the time they graduate than how to finesse the system." ELL, special education students especially vulnerable to MCAS, teachers say Throughout the public speaking portion of the School Committee meeting, a number of speakers spoke to heightened difficulties passing MCAS for students like English language learners and those in special education. "About 40% of our current student population speaks another language at home other than English," said 27-year New Bedford ESL (English as a second language) educator Irma Valerius. "As speakers of other languages, it takes about 40% of our student population about five to seven years to fully grasp academic English in the four domains of speaking, listening, reading and writing; five to seven years that are not afforded to English learners arriving in eighth grade and beyond." Keep up with the latest: There's a regional housing shortage in the SouthCoast. Here's a closer look at why. Special education teacher Kelly Murphy said the potential for MCAS to be a diploma-blocker is "especially true in supported academic classes." "This cohort of students have disabilities significant enough to make high stakes testing like the MCAS nearly impossible for them to pass," Murphy said. "These students are incredibly capable ... but after four years of effort and coming to class every single day, they might leave the school with nothing to show for it." Elimination of state receivership a welcome change Educators and officials have also spoken to the prospect of doing away with state receivership which the Thrive Act would do, but not the ballot initiative as currently written. Under current law, schools and districts deemed chronically underperforming by state standards can be put into receivership, which essentially turns control over to the commonwealth. New Bedford currently has one school Parker Elementary under that status. "They just have not been well-executed," said Mayor Jon Mitchell, ex-officio School Committee chair, on state receiverships. Hayden-McFadden Elementary School, seen here, made it out of the state's "underperforming" category earlier in the 2023-2024 school year. Mitchell who voted "yes" to the set of resolutions with exception of one urging public support for the ballot initiative said whatever happens, he'd prefer to see NBPS have "its own competency standards set by us, not by somebody in Boston." As discussed at the meeting, the Thrive Act entails that, if passed, all existing state receiverships would end within a year. Referencing the recent success story of Hayden-McFadden Elementary School's exit from the state's "underperforming" status, para educator Michelle Willis said, "Did we need state intervention to improve the education of those students? I don't think so." Get some background: Hayden McFadden School is officially out of 'underperforming' status. Read on. After all these years, why now? As to why, after decades of contention around MCAS issues, legislative and grassroots attempts at change are now taking such actionable shape, MTA Director of Training & Professional Learning Dr. Ricardo Rosa speculates that hindsight of the COVID years may have helped. "People experienced the suspension of the use of MCAS as a graduation requirement and the world didn't fall apart," Rosa said. "And now I think people are rethinking how we do education across the board in this country and it's about time." Rosa says in his view, MCAS as a graduation requirement raises issues of equity. "School systems aren't similarly funded," Rosa said, noting New Bedford's funding levels as low compared to Mass. districts like Newton or Brookline. "Teacher pay varies.... counseling and mental health supports vary, physical facilities vary. "For all these reasons, it's not equitable for us to place a high stakes standardized test as a graduation requirement; it's deeply problematic." Though it may appear an urban district like New Bedford fares well in funding compared to its suburban counterparts, Rosa says much of that money is often absorbed by MCAS-related endeavors. "It's being spent in places like New Bedford on test prep, not really quality education," he said. Westport superintendent: MCAS has proven ineffective Nearby in semi-rural Westport, Superintendent Thomas Aubin doesn't favor MCAS as a graduation requirement any more than stakeholders in New Bedford, insisting that it does not adequately perform its intended function. "When you look at the students entering college who need remediation coursework, it is tough to suggest that the test has improved post secondary performance," Aubin said. "By the same token, businesses are suggesting that they need to train employees who recently graduated because they lack the skills necessary to be successful. Check this out!: The Portuguese Kids are getting their own TV series. When and where to watch "As the educational and business world is changing exponentially, I am troubled that the current assessment may fall short in truly measuring progress and performance." *Editor's Note: This story has been edited to correct that Dr. Ricardo Rosa is no longer co-chair of New Bedford Coalition to Save Our Schools. This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: New Bedford officials support measures to strike MCAS grad requirement MANTEO, N.C. (WAVY) The shooting death of Sylvester Demetrius Selby by deputies in Manteo was determined to be reasonable under the circumstances after Selby charged at them with a knife, officials said. On Oct. 2, 2023, Dare County Sheriffs Deputy Edward Francis Glaser III and Sergeant Duwayne Gibbs were confirmed to be responding to a trespassing call on the 1300 block of Burnside Road. In previous coverage, Selbys sister, Ebony Selby, said that he was not a stranger to the property and that her family owned the property. Previous Coverage: Sheriff: Dare deputy shot, killed man who advanced with knife in Manteo According to the report from the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys, the owner of the property was John Simms, and this was at least the second time officers responded to a trespassing call at his residence. The other incident was back on Aug. 26, 2023, where Glaser and a Manteo Police Officer David Rhoads responded after Simms reported Selby entered his home without permission. During this incident, Selby lunged at Rhoads. Selby had to be restrained to a gurney, and EMS had to chemically sedate Selby while he was transported to the hospital. During the most recent incident in October, deputies were told that Selby was trespassing and tearing stuff up inside of the residence. In the body camera footage, Simms was heard saying to the deputies, he is going crazy he is not allowed to come here because he has those spasms, according to the report. Selby was asked at least three times by Gibbs to come outside. When he finally did, he was seen holding a knife with blood on the front of his torso, the report states. He did not put the knife down after being instructed to by Gibbs, and the report from the district attorneys office said that Selby started running at Gibbs with the knife in his hand. Glaser fired one shot, hitting Selby in the torso. Selby was instructed to stay down, but instead got to his feet and lunged at Glaser, the report states. Glaser fired two more rounds. The deputies requested emergency assistance, but Selby was pronounced deceased. It was later discovered the Selby had a knife wound to his chest that contributed to his death. Selbys daughter, Legacy Spencer, issued a lawsuit against Sheriff Doug Doughtie and Glaser saying that Selby was shot and killed after trying to receive medical assistance for a stab wound to the heart. The lawsuit states that Selby walked out of the house with a kitchen knife in one hand, in a non-threatening manner, and an apple in the other, and complied with officers. Previous Coverage: Daughter of man shot by officer while holding a knife in Manteo sues for $5M The district attorneys offices report had no mention of an apple. The familys lawsuit is suing for damages after saying that police were there to respond for a medical assistance call, not a trespassing call, as Selby was stabbed in the chest. As far as a criminal case, under North Carolina law, the burden of proof falls on the state to prove that the defendants did not act under self-defense beyond reasonable doubt. After an investigation of an incident, the district attorneys office found that the use of deadly force was reasonable under the circumstances. This shooting was indisputably tragic, but it was not unlawful, the district attorneys office said, in their report. Consequently, our office will not be seeking charges related to the death of Sylvester Demetrius Selby. The case was handled by Special Prosecutor, Charles Spahos with the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys as it became clear that District Attorney Jeff Cruden had a conflict of interest because he knew both parties. My biggest regret is that Mr. Selby had not received the help he obviously needed earlier, so possibly such a situation could have been avoided, Cruden said, in a release. Check with WAVY.com for updates. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. UPDATE: Officials said that the missing child has been found. SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) Authorities are responding to reports of a missing child in Smith County on Wednesday afternoon. Community parade cheers on Pine Tree student battling brain tumor According to Sgt. Larry Christian with the Smith County Sheriffs Office, a child was called in as missing in the 6000 block of FM 724 in Smith County. Christian described the child as a 4-year-old white male with blonde hair and blue eyes, wearing a grey shirt and sweatpants with a red stripe. If you have any information regarding the missing child, please contact local law enforcement. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. An Owasso high school student died earlier this month after sustaining injuries during an altercation in a school bathroom, police and school officials said. The student was identified by family as Nex Benedict Tuesday, according to a GoFundMe page which had garnered more than $56,000 in donations as of Wednesday morning. According to the statement from Sue Benedict, the money left over after Nex's burial expenses are paid will go towards "other children dealing with the right to be who they feel they are." Owasso student Nex Benedict Condolences for the family's loss of Nex and calls for accountability have poured in from state and national officials. Vice President Kamala Harris voices support for Nex Benedict's family Vice President Kamala Harris posted on social media in support of Nex Benedict's family and the LGBTQ+ community. "My heart goes out to Nex Benedicts family, friends, and their entire community," Harris said. "To the LGBTQI+ youth who are hurting and are afraid right now: President Joe Biden and I see you, we stand with you, and you are not alone." My heart goes out to Nex Benedicts family, friends, and their entire community. To the LGBTQI+ youth who are hurting and are afraid right now: President Joe Biden and I see you, we stand with you, and you are not alone. Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) February 23, 2024 Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt calls for transparency from investigators Oklahoma's governor pressed investigators and school administrators to be transparent with the public about the circumstances surrounding the death of Nex Benedict as questions and speculation circulate nationwide. "The death of any child in an Oklahoma school is a tragedy, and bullies must be held accountable," Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement. He continued by calling on officials to disclose more information about the case. As we await the results of the investigation, I urge Owasso police and Owasso Public Schools to be forthcoming and transparent with the public," Stitt said. Rep. Cyndi Munson 'disturbed' by Nex Benedict's passing House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson speaks during the House Democrats response to Gov. Kevin Stitt's State of the State address to the joint session on the first day of the Oklahoma Legislature Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. Behind Munson is Rep. Andy Fugate, left, and Rep. Trish Ranson. Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, shared condolences for Nex in a statement: I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the passing of Nex Benedict, a student at Owasso High School. I am sending condolences to their family, friends, and the Owasso Public School district. Nex deserved to be protected at school more importantly, they deserved to be embraced for who they were and all they would become. While the circumstances surrounding their death have not been fully disclosed, the current details are troubling to say the least. I am profoundly sympathetic to Nex and everyone who knew them personally. My thoughts are with Nexs family during this time. Rep. Mauree Turner on death of Nex Benedict: 'This one hurt' Rep. Mauree Turner addresses a trans rights rally during the start of the Legislature and Gov. Kevin Stitt's State of the State speech to the joint session Monday, February 6, 2023. Oklahoma Rep. Mauree Turner, who uses the pronouns they/them, said in an Instagram post of Nex's death: "This one hurt. They all really hurt. Nex deserves more trans Oklahomans deserve more." "My heart breaks for Nex Benedict," Turner added. "Everyday I get more angry that we, politicians, no matter your party affiliation are aiding in a transgenocide in Oklahoma." Freedom Oklahoma: 'Nex should still be alive' Nicole McAfee (they/she) is a queer, nonbinary person living and working in Oklahoma. They serve as the executive director of Freedom Oklahoma, an organization dedicated to building a future where all 2SLGBTQ+ folks have the safety to thrive. Freedom Oklahoma, an advocate organization for the LGBTQ+ community, released a lengthy statement on its website offering its condolences for Nex's death. "Nex should still be alive," part of the statement reads. "Nex deserved not only a safe and nurturing environment to learn, but an environment that actively disrupted anti-2STGNC+ rhetoric and worked to ensure that vulnerable students were safe. Owasso schools failed to create that environment for Nex. And we know that is the story for too many kids across our state. "We want to be clear, whether Nex died as a direct result of injuries sustained in the brutal hate-motivated attack at school or not, Nexs death is a result of being the target of physical and emotional harm because of who Nex was. This harm is absolutely related to the rhetoric and policies that are commonplace at the Oklahoma Legislature, the State Department of Education, and the Governors office, with regard to dehumanizing 2STGNC+ people." Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters 'mourns' Nex Benedict's loss State superintendent Ryan Walters speaks to the media about the teacher bonus program at the Oklahoma Capitol, Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. Oklahoma state schools superintendent Ryan Walters released a statement to The Oklahoman after Nex Benedict's death: The safety and security of our students is my top priority as well as the first responsibility of Oklahoma schools. I mourn the loss of our student in Owasso and pray for Gods comfort for the family and the entire Owasso community." ACLU, Lambda Legal release statement regarding Nex Benedict Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the ACLU of Oklahoma issued the following joint statement: We are gravely heartbroken to learn about the death of Nex Benedict and extend our overwhelming condolences to their family, their friends, and the entire transgender community across Oklahoma. The assault on Nex is an inevitable result of the hateful rhetoric and discriminatory legislation targeting Oklahoma trans youth. We challenged Oklahomas law requiring schools to discriminate against students like Nex because we believe every student should have the safe and affirming environment they need to thrive, and policies that put transgender students in danger make schools less safe places for all students. We are deeply troubled by reports the school failed to respond appropriately to the altercation that preceded Nexs death and demand a thorough, open investigation into the matter. We will never stop fighting for 2SLGBTQ+ people across Oklahoma and the country until every state is a safe place to raise every family. Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd expresses condolences to Nex Benedict's family Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd makes the motion to adjourn at the close of the 2023 Legislative session at the Capitol Friday, May 26, 2023. Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, released the following statement: This is a deeply concerning situation, and investigations are underway. I think it is extremely important to let the facts come to light, but one fact is indisputable right now a family has lost a child. At this point in time, I want to express my deepest condolences to Nexs family and all who are grieving this terrible loss. Cherokee Nation Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. offering support in Nex Benedict death investigation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr, Cherokee Nation, addresses the committee as House lawmakers begin two-day study on state-tribal compacts at the Oklahoma Capitol, Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023 While some have said that Nex was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. said a database search found no record of Nex's citizenship. "However, Nex was a child living within our reservation and deserved love, support and to be kept safe," Hoskin, Jr. said in a statement. "As a partner with all law enforcement agencies across the reservation, I have asked the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service to offer its support to the Owasso Police Department in investigating Nex's case." The First Lady and I mourn this tragedy with Nexs family, friends and the larger community. We have offered @CherokeeNation Marshal Service support to Owasso PD as it investigates Nexs death. pic.twitter.com/e0EpFlXsbZ Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. (@ChuckHoskin_Jr) February 20, 2024 Choctaw Nation Chief releases statement on Nex Benedict Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation, addresses the committee as House lawmakers begin two-day study on state-tribal compacts at the Oklahoma Capitol, Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023 Gary Batton, the chief of the Choctaw Nation in southeast Oklahoma, said that while Nex was not a citizen of the Choctaw Nation, at least one of their relatives is Choctaw. "The loss of a child is always difficult for a community and a family to accept," Batton said. "Nexs death weighs heavily on the hearts of the Choctaw people. We pray Nexs family and their loved ones will find comfort." Americans United for Separation of Church and State: 'Oklahoma officials failed this teenager' Americans United for Separation of Church and State President and CEO Rachel Laser said that though details are still being determined regarding Nex's death, "one thing is clear: Oklahoma officials failed this teenager." "Backed by Gov. Kevin Stitt, Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters has launched a crusade to force fundamentalist Christianity into the public schools, with a cruel focus on trans youth," Laser said. "Oklahoma legislators have compounded the harm by passing laws undermining LGBTQ+ rights. Oklahoma approved the nations first religious public school, which will discriminate against LGBTQ+ students, and Walters appointed Chaya Raichik of Libs of TikTok, unqualified internet bully, to ban books and oversee school safety. The hostile, Christian Nationalist environment Walters and Stitt have nurtured in Oklahoma public schools has created a permission structure for anti-LGBTQ+ persecution, and its no surprise that teens noticed. State officials have sent the message that trans/nonbinary kids have something wrong with them and do not have equal rights creating an atmosphere that empowers bullies, in this case with tragic results. We hope that Walters, Stitt and other Oklahoma officials learn from this horrific tragedy and pull back on their crusade to devalue LGBTQ+ people and destroy separation of church and state. All decent people must hold these state officials accountable for the consequences of their rhetoric and actions. The memory of Nex Benedict demands nothing less. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma student dies: Officials react to death of Nex Benedict An Ohio man is suing officers in Kentucky, claiming that he was falsely arrested after police believed he stole his own car. Henry Lee Sanders III, who is represented by The Kemper Law Office, filed the lawsuit against members of the Florence Police Department. It alleges that the officers used excessive force and brutality against him during a traffic stop. According to a complaint and his attorneys, Sanders was ordered to pull over near Burlington Pike and Utz Avenue in Boone County on Nov. 11, 2022. Officer James Wilbers is said to have believed that Sanders car was stolen. Henry Sanders III was accused of stealing his own vehicle in 2022. (The Kemper Law Office) More than three years earlier, Sanders had reported his 1996 blue Ford Crown Victoria stolen from outside of his Cincinnati home on April 18, 2019. Police found the car in the nearby suburb of Newport, Kentucky, the same day. A Cincinnati Police Department incident report shows that when Sanders recovered the car, it was missing one thing: its front license plate, Ohio GYR6482. During the 2022 traffic stop in Florence, Kentucky, Wilbers is accused of pulling out his gun, yelling loudly, and handcuffing Sanders on the side of the road, per the filing viewed by Atlanta Black Star. Three other officers, identified as Kelli Chapman, D.J. Hutcherson, and Patrick Taylor, arrived at the scene where Sanders was being detained. The Florence Police Department is composed of the individuals who failed to correct the record that the car was no longer stolen since the victim on the stolen vehicle report, Henry Sanders, was the individual driving the car, the November 2023 filing stated. When Henry complied with officers demands that he exit the vehicle, he was handcuffed and interrogated without being Mirandized. The lawsuit noted the officers went through the database, which showed that the vehicle was indeed recovered. However, the Florence police report shows he was still arrested on charges of second-degree disorderly conduct and a charge of driving with a stolen license plate Ohio plate GYR6482. Florence dispatchers had reported the plate as stolen to the officers detaining Sanders. According to a police report, Sanders was transported to the local jail, and his 1996 Ford Crown Victoria was towed. Although Boone County, Kentucky, prosecutors later dismissed all charges against Sanders, his lawyers argued that their client was wrongfully prosecuted and his civil rights were violated. The lawsuit is seeking punitive and compensatory relief. Sanders, unable to afford impound fees to recover his car, never got it back, his attorneys say. The case, which we are pushing to be tried by a jury, is a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in law enforcement. We stand firm in our belief that the officers and the police department must be held responsible for their actions, the Kemper Law Office said in a statement. An Ohio Man Was Arrested After Police Claimed He Stole His Own Vehicle. He Still Hasnt Gotten His Car Back The Chinese government criticized the United States over the decision to use its veto on a United Nations ceasefire resolution for Gaza, a development that Beijing said would send the "wrong message." China also said that the veto decision effectively gave a "green light to the continued slaughter" in the war-torn region. The remarks came after the White House said that the Algerian-proposed resolution would "jeopardize" negotiations to end the war in Gaza. China Criticizes US Veto of Ceasefire Resolution The American government has also proposed its own temporary ceasefire resolution for Gaza, which also warned Israel not to invade the city of Rafah. Many have expressed their discontent with the US decision to block Algeria's resolution as the Gaza war continues. The resolution received support from 13 of the 15 members of the United Nations Security Council, with the United Kingdom abstaining. After the veto, China's UN ambassador Zhang Jun said that the claim that the resolution would interfere with ongoing negotiations was "totally untenable," as per BBC. He added that given the situation on the ground, the continued passive avoidance of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza is the same as letting the slaughter continue. Zhang said that the spillover of the Israel-Hamas war is destabilizing the entire Middle East region, which leads to the risk of a wider war. The Chinese official noted that only by extinguishing the flames of war in the Gaza Strip can the fires of hell be prevented from engulfing the entire region. On the other hand, Algeria's top UN diplomat declared that "unfortunately, the Security Council failed once again. Amar Bendjama then told other officials to "Examine your conscience, how will history judge you." Allies of the United States were also critical of the decision to veto the ceasefire resolution. French UN envoy Nicolar de Riviere expressed regret that the measure had not been adopted given the disastrous situation on the ground. Read Also: UK Demands Immediate Humanitarian Gaza Ceasefire for First Time To Avoid Party Row Ending the Conflict in the Gaza Strip Palestine's UN envoy, Riyad Mansour said that the US veto of the resolution was a message to Israel that it can continue to get away with murder. Bendjama noted that the rejection of the UNSC ceasefire resolution in Gaza shows "approval of starvation as a means of war," according to Aljazeera. Mansour also claimed that "more babies will be murdered" due to the UNSC's failure to call for a ceasefire in Israel's continued war in Gaza against Hamas. He said that by the time the council session ends, more than 25 Palestinians will have lost their lives. UK's ambassador to the UN, Barbara Woodward, said that the ceasefire resolution could "actually make a ceasefire less likely" because it would endanger ongoing discussions. The developments come as Israel's military operations in Gaza have already resulted in the deaths of more than 29,000 people in the region. The ceasefire negotiations that the US referenced are being conducted between the US, Egypt, Israel, and Qatar. They seek to broker a pause in the conflict and the release of the hostages that the militant group has in the Gaza Strip, said the South China Morning Post. Related Article: South Africa's Ramaphosa Sets May 29 as Election Day FILE - People vote on Election Day, Nov. 7, 2023, at Knox Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati. Ohios Republican lawmakers are far from coasting through this election season despite wielding the power in both chambers of the state Legislature. The primaries in March 2024 will likely be used to wage a bitter power battle within their own party that could determine just how red the state runs. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel, File) COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) Despite wielding power in both chambers of the state Legislature, Ohios Republican lawmakers are far from coasting through this election season as incumbents face challengers from their own party in the midst of a bitter GOP power struggle. Next months primary will likely be used to further wage the infighting that's been steady in the state House since 2023, when a contentious House speaker race split the lower chamber's Republicans. Even though GOP lawmakers hold supermajorities in both chambers, the Legislature succeeded in setting a record last year for the lowest number of bills passed since the 1950s. Democrats are deciding a few contested primaries themselves, but even newly drawn Statehouse maps backed by both parties make it all but impossible for them to gain the majority in 2024. All 99 seats in the Ohio House are up for grabs this year, as are 16 of the 33 seats in the Senate. HOW IS THIS INFIGHTING AFFECTING THE ELECTION SEASON? GOP House Speaker Jason Stephens won the speakership with the vote of 32 Democrats and 21 state House Republicans in January 2023. Nearly half of those Republicans are facing opponents in the primary March 19. The rival camp, which supported Rep. Derek Merrin, a Monclova Republican, for speaker, dubbed those Republicans and Stephens, who voted for himself, the Blue 22. Those 22 have since been censured by the Ohio Republican Party, and the Merrin contingent has been drumming up support for their challengers. As the House leader, Stephens has power over what legislation comes before the full chamber. He also controls over $3 million in campaign funds for his caucus through the Ohio House Republican Alliance. Merrin and his supporters are trying to change that via an ongoing lawsuit that would wrest that control away. And while Merrin is term-limited and Stephens is unopposed in the primary, the current speaker still has a fight ahead of him. Current Senate President Matt Huffman, who is also term-limited, is running for the House and does not face a primary opponent. Huffman has openly touted his desire to be speaker if elected, which is likely given the red nature of his Allen County district. The Lima Republican has also donated to the Merrin camp incumbents, and some of Huffmans fellow conservative senators have publicly endorsed several of Stephens' supporters' challengers. If the number of Stephens supporters dwindle, he could fail to keep the coveted speaker role. For now, Stephens is sitting comfortably on the alliances millions and nearly $760,000 in his personal campaign account. Huffmans account stands at nearly $713,000. WHAT OTHER PRIMARY BATTLES ARE ON THE HORIZON? Hamilton County Republican Rep. Bill Seitz decided not to seek reelection after a decades-long career in the Legislature. Vying for his seat are Democrats Stefanie Hawk and Daniel Voynovich, and lone Republican Mike Odioso all from Cincinnati. Former GOP Rep. Bob Young's Summit County seat is also wide open following his resignation from the House last summer after he was found guilty of domestic violence against his wife in October of last year. Jack Daniels, a Republican from Akron, and Mary Stormer, a Republican from New Franklin, will face off for the GOP nominations. Jim Colopy, of Akron, is the only Democrat running for the seat. Incumbent Rep. Elliot Forhan is currently under investigation for alleged violent and erratic behavior toward lawmakers, statehouse staff and constituents. He failed to win the endorsement of Cuyahoga Countys Democratic party and has faced criticism from his community. Forhan is widely expected not to win his districts primary and is facing several challengers, including Cleveland-area Democrats Angel Washington and Eric Synenberg. Republican Joshua Malovasic is also running. Rep. Dave Dobos, a Columbus-area conservative, announced earlier this year that he would not seek reelection. Dobos came under fire when it was revealed that he had never graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as he's claimed for decades and failed to disclose over $1 million in debt as part of a business dispute back in 2014. Three Democrats are vying for Dobos' seat: Ahmet Ali and Mark Sigrist, both of Grove City, and Sarah Pomeroy, of Columbus. Two Republicans, Shafi Ahmed, of Columbus, and Brian Garvine, of Grove City, are also on the primary ballot. While the House is boasting some of the more closely watched races this year, one district in the Senate has some eyes turned to it, as it could give the minority Democrats another seat. The Dayton-area district is now leaning more blue than previous years after the bipartisan redrawing of Statehouse maps, setting up a more exciting Democratic primary fight. The incumbent, Republican Sen. Niraj Antani, is not seeking reelection and is instead running for Congress. Looking to fill the seat are Democrats Jyl Hall, of Kettering, and Jocelyn Rhynard, of Dayton, as well as current Rep. Willis Blackshear, also of Dayton. The one Republican on the primary ballot is Charlotte McGuire. ___ Samantha Hendrickson is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Former United States President Donald Trump unveiled his list of potential candidates that could become his running mate for the 2024 election. The Republican businessman suggested on Tuesday that he has at least half a dozen choices on his vice presidential shortlist. It includes South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, as well as former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Donald Trump Talks About Potential Running Mate During a town hall event hosted by Fox News, Laura Ingraham asked the former president about six potential choices for his vice president. These were DeSantis, Scott, biotech entrepreneur and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, Florida Rep. Byron Donalds, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, and Gabbard. She asked Trump if all of the people she listed were on the former president's vice presidential shortlist. In response, the Republican businessman said, "They are" and continued to say, "Honestly all of those people are good. They're all good, they're all solid." The former president is known to talk off the cuff and it would come as a surprise if he does choose the Florida governor to be his running mate. The two have spent a year savaging each other as they were rivals for the GOP presidential nomination before DeSantis dropped out of the race, as per Politico. That decision was prompted by a relatively disappointing second-place finish in the Iowa caucuses. However, the Florida governor has since given his endorsement to Trump and the latter has also stopped attacking the former and retired the "DeSanctimonious" nickname that he has been using. On Tuesday evening, the former president singled out Scott among the people on his vice presidential shortlist for the most praise. The lawmaker, who dropped out of the Republican primary last year and later endorsed Trump, has been campaigning aggressively for the former president in his home state ahead of the South Carolina primary scheduled for Feb. 24. Read Also: US Presidential Survey: Experts Place Joe Biden in 14th Spot, Donald Trump Comes in Last Preparing for the 2024 Election Trump gestured to Scott as he said, "A lot of people are talking about that gentleman right over there." The former president said that the Republican has been a great advocate, adding that he has been much better for him than he was for himself. The situation comes as the former president has had decisive victories in the first two nominating contests and has only one remaining high-profile opponent for the 2024 GOP nomination, according to CBS News. Earlier this month, Trump said that he is looking for a running mate who is "able to be a good president." The former president said that he has already been talking to a number of people, including Scott and Noem. In December last year, Trump attended a candle-lit dinner with Mar-a-Lago members where he walked around the table as the conversation turned to his running mate. That was when Rep. Elise Stefanik came up in the conversations. Stefanik is the hard-charging upstate New York Republican and she had a viral moment prior to the talks where she grilled the university presidents at a congressional hearing about antisemitism on campus, said NBC News. Related Article: Nikki Haley Remains Unbowed, Vows to Remain in Race up to Super Tuesday Learning Chinese best way to build cultural bridge, says Spanish student Xinhua) 09:14, February 21, 2024 BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Studying the Chinese language is one of the best ways to get closer to Chinese culture, a Spanish student told Xinhua on Tuesday. Albert Estrada, who has been studying at the Confucius Institute of Barcelona for five years, said: "After I first went to China in 2018, I set myself the goal of going there to live and to work soon if possible, because I love the whole culture there." Albert's trip to China was inspired by some Chinese friends. "When I got to China I saw it was a different world, and it fascinated me. It seemed a wonderful place, the people treated me well, and when I got back from that trip I began studying Chinese," he said. The huge differences between the Chinese and Spanish languages mean that Chinese people find some aspects of Spanish grammar hard, says Albert, such as conjugating verbs. However, Spanish people find the pronunciation of Chinese, and Chinese characters challenging. "I wouldn't say I speak Chinese right now, I'm a student of Chinese, which is not the same thing. But the last few times I've been to China I have been able to get by, and without resorting to English I've been able to shop, to buy food and talk to Chinese people," Albert told Xinhua. The Confucius Institute was founded in Barcelona in 2009 as part of a collaborative effort between Spanish and Chinese universities. It offers Chinese language courses at 14 different levels, as well as the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) exams, China's official test of language proficiency for non-native speakers. Albert is currently on the fourth of the six HSK exams, and is one of more than 50,000 people studying Chinese in Spain. He stressed that it is important to mix with Chinese people, both at home and in China. "Breaking the linguistic barrier is the first step, and once they see that you are learning Chinese, they feel more relaxed with you and then it is easy to form a relationship with them," he said. Albert also spent two months in China last summer, and hopes to visit for three months at the end of this year, and experience the Chinese New Year in China. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) In a bid to safeguard their territorial claims and national interests in the South China Sea, the Philippines and the United States conducted a joint air patrol on Monday as part of the third maritime cooperative effort. This joint operation comes in the wake of escalating tensions in the region over competing territorial assertions. China's military had earlier accused the Philippines of exacerbating tensions by engaging in such cooperative activities with "extraterritorial countries" and subsequently publicizing them. Joint Air Patrol to 'Protect' Territory The joint air patrol was conducted with the aim of safeguarding their territory, according to the Armed Forces Public Affairs Chief Xerxes Trinidad. "This is to enhance both armed forces' interoperability and enhance the capabilities of our air force (in) performing its mandate of protecting our territory, sovereign rights and national interests," said the military official from the Philippines. In line with this, the Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) expressed its disapproval of the joint air patrol, stating that it had closely monitored the joint drills and maintained a high level of vigilance to defend national sovereignty. The joint air patrol is part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation between the Philippines and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region. The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Air Force conducted the patrol as part of the Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. The patrol involved three FA-50 fighter jets from the Philippine Air Force and a B-52H bomber aircraft from the United States. The aircraft covered areas west of Candon, Ilocos Sur, and northwest of Lubang, Mindoro, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. "This cooperative activity aims to bolster cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and their US counterparts, thereby enhancing interoperability between its Air Forces," stated the Philippine Air Force. Read Also: Philippines, Vietnam Forge Agreement to Manage Incidents in South China Sea Rising Tensions in South China Sea The South China Sea is a strategically vital waterway, with China asserting sovereignty over nearly the entire area. This claim overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of several other nations including the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Consequently, tensions have simmered as countries seek to assert their rights and interests in the region. Last week, the Philippine fishing bureau leveled accusations against Chinese fishing vessels, alleging the use of cyanide to devastate Scarborough Shoal. Nazario Briguera, a spokesperson for the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, asserted during a press conference that Chinese fishermen deploy cyanide into the shoal. The use of cyanide in fishing is a pervasive practice that has resulted in the death of fish and the degradation of coral reefs for many years, according to the Center for Biological Diversity. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has been strengthening its defense ties with the United States while relations with China have soured. This marks a departure from the policies of the previous administration led by Rodrigo Duterte, who favored closer relations with Beijing and refrained from engaging in joint military exercises with Washington. Related Article: Filipino Bishops Condemn China's Aggressive Intrusions in South China Sea, Urge Fishermen Protection After the Gaza war ends, new Palestinian leaders are needed who could helm a future independent state, opposition figure Nasser al-Kidwa, the nephew of late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, told AFP. They should also seek a "peaceful divorce" with 88-year-old Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, who should assume a purely ceremonial role, argued Kidwa, a former Palestinian foreign minister. Kidwa, 70, said talks involving Gulf states and Western powers are seeking not just a pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas and the return of hostages, but also addressing day-after scenarios. Behind the scenes they are touching on wider post-war issues such as security, leadership reform, the creation of an independent Palestinian state and normalising Israeli-Saudi relations, he said. "How do we put all these pieces together? What comes first, what comes second, et cetera?" said Kidwa, who was kicked out of Abbas's Fatah movement after challenging the president in 2021. "It may seem confusing but in reality, the positions of the parties are getting closer and closer, not divergent -- with the exception of Israel." Talks are aiming to secure a ceasefire of about six weeks starting between now and Ramadan, which is expected to begin on March 10 or 11, to allow for exchanges of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel with hostages. During the pause, there can be an "intensification of efforts in regards to the other elements," Kidwa added. Kidwa is active behind the scenes with his ally Mohammed Dahlan, a former Fatah security chief in Gaza, to convince Arab and Western powers of the plan. Dahlan, 62, originally from Gaza's Khan Yunis refugee camp, has the ear of Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nayhan, the powerful president of the United Arab Emirates which is one of the few Arab nations to have normalised relations with Israel. Among many Palestinians, the UAE-based Dahlan is a controversial figure because of the wealth and influence he has accumulated abroad. - 'Divorce' with Abbas - In a recent interview with the New York Times, Dahlan called for new leadership of the Palestinian Authority and argued that Arab states should send troops to help keep order in post-war Gaza, where Saudi and UAE money could help fund reconstruction. Kidwa said there should be "a peaceful divorce with Mr Abbas", the head of the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank, leaving him as president but in a ceremonial capacity. A prime minister and government would be responsible for the West Bank and Gaza Strip at the same time, he added. "Hamas is not going to be annihilated as the Israelis have advocated at the beginning. This is not possible," he argued. "But it (Hamas) is going to be weakened and it's not going to govern Gaza after the war. That will most probably lead to a different Hamas. "What exactly? I can't say because it depends on the members of Hamas to decide what are their preferences, but we should be there to help and encourage this transformation." Since the start of the Gaza war, Kidwa has met Hamas leaders at the group's political office in Qatar. "I was very honest with them and I told them really what I think, including the fact that Hamas will not stay in power and will not govern Gaza at all," he said. "It was not easy to swallow but I think they do understand that reality now." Israel maintains that after the war it will retain security control over Gaza and the West Bank but not seek to be in charge in Gaza, which would instead be governed by "Palestinian entities". - 'More of the same' - Among Western powers, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for "reform" of the Palestinian Authority. Kidwa said change was the main priority "of more than 90 percent of Palestinians". "Even I have doubts about the two-state solution," Kidwa said. "I mean that the term is linked to a failed so-called peace process that led to nothing." The Oslo Accords of the 1990s, which created a limited degree of Palestinian self-rule, were designed to be an interim measure that would eventually lead to resolving the conflict. "I think that basically what the Palestinian youth is not accepting is the idea of more negotiations," added Kidwa. "They don't want to see more of the same. They are right." To him, "we should stop talking about a process, a horizon, and it should be a commitment and an acceptance right at the beginning of the final outcome." "We should define an end result with a time limit for this end result to happen," he said. "In that sense, there is no other solution except the notion of splitting the land into two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace." gl/emd/phz/jd/fz/ami Paprika, bottom, and Arun, top, are getting to know each other at the Greater Vancouver Zoo. (Submitted by the Greater Vancouver Zoo - image credit) A red panda named Paprika was introduced to her potential mate at the Greater Vancouver Zoo recently, as part of a conservation program for the endangered species. After being in quarantine since she arrived from the Toronto Zoo in December, the six-year-old red panda finally met her match, Arun, on Saturday. "I won't say that they are in love, but they are definitely enjoying being together," said Menita Prasad, director of animal care at the zoo. The hope is that the two will produce cubs as part of a species survival plan. * Paprika, pictured here, is described by her carers as curious and motivated by food. (Submitted by the Greater Vancouver Zoo) The introduction went well, Prasad said. Paprika, who is curious and food-motivated, is exploring her new surroundings and Arun is being respectful and giving her space when she indicates she needs it. According to the zoo, red pandas breed from January through March, with babies being born in the late spring. If the pair are successful in breeding, Prasad said the cubs would stay with their family for at least a year, after which they may be relocated to breed themselves. They wouldn't be Arun's first cubs the zoo brought in a red panda named Sakura in 2021. She gave birth to two cubs, Maple and Mei Mei, in June 2022. The three have been relocated to different zoos across Canada. There are between 2,500 and 10,000 red pandas left in the wild, according to Red Panda Network, a conservation group with offices in Kathmandu, Nepal and Eugene, Ore. The red panda population has been cut in half in the last 20 years and the mammals are classified as endangered. The network said the main threat to the species, which is native to the Eastern Himalayas, is habitat loss. Species survival program draws criticism The breeding effort at the Greater Vancouver Zoo is part of the species survival plan program run by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a non-profit based in Silver Spring, Md., that represents about 235 facilities. Prasad said the program ensures a sustainable number of red pandas are in captivity, in case wild populations crash. "If needed, they will be reintroduced back into the wild," Prasad said. Arun is pictured. Arun had two cubs in June 2022 with a red panda named Sakura who was brought to the Vancouver zoo in 2021. Sakura and the cubs have since been relocated to other zoos in Canada. (Greater Vancouver Zoo) But some local animal activists have raised concerns about the program, stating that it is a way for zoos to legitimize putting animals on display rather than protecting them in their natural habitats. Chantelle Archambault, communications director for the Vancouver Humane Society, said the organization is disappointed to see the zoo bringing in another red panda for breeding. "We know the program brings a lot of financial benefit to the zoo, but the cost of that is there's more animals who will spend their entire lives in captivity in a foreign and unfamiliar environment that can't meet all their needs," said Archambault. AZA's species survival plan program does not immediately benefit animals in the wild, but focuses on maintaining an animal population in captivity, she said. "Breeding exotic animals halfway around the world to be kept in a zoo their whole life is not about conservation," she said. Former United States President Donald Trump said that he is willing to have multiple debates with President Joe Biden ahead of the 2024 presidential election. The remarks come as the Republican businessman has not stepped on stage for a debate even once this election season to debate his GOP rivals. When asked about the possibility of meeting his 2020 rival face-to-face, Trump said, "We can do you, you can do anybody you want." Trump Challenges Biden to Debate The former president's comments come as he knows full well that the Democratic leader will have to respond to his supposed challenge. He added that when the final Republican and final Democrat are left in the nomination, they will have to debate regardless. Trump went full general election mode now that his nomination to become the GOP presidential candidate is all but guaranteed. He added that he does not think that Biden will accept his challenge for a debate, as per Deadline. On the other hand, Biden was in Los Angeles to participate in a deep pocket fundraiser in the evening that will be hosted by Haim and Cheryl Saban, and Casey Wasserman. During the president's last trip out West, he pulled in roughly $15 million in his up-close and personal get-togethers with Hollywood donors. He was able to raise roughly $24 million last month and the well-funded Biden/Harris campaign currently has about $130 million on hand. With Biden set to give a speech in Culver City on Wednesday before traveling to San Francisco for more fundraisers, he could break that financial milestone soon. The advanced age of both Biden and Trump has become one of the crucial points of discussion in the 2024 campaign as they have both blundered in public appearances. On Tuesday, Biden took another swipe at Biden, saying, "He's declined, but he was always sort of semi-declined." Read Also: Nikki Haley Remains Unbowed, Vows to Remain in Race up to Super Tuesday Presidential Debates in the 2024 Race Trump's debate challenge to Biden also comes as there are three presidential debates scheduled for the 2024 race, the first one in September. The former president has cited his significant polling lead to justify his decision to opt-out from attending debates handled by his own party, according to The Hill. Some pundits have suggested that the Republican businessman's decision to skip his party's primary debates could give the sitting president justification to opt out of the general election debates. In December, a Biden campaign official said that their team "will have those conversations" about debates in the future. The former president's willingness to debate Biden comes as polls have shown him having a narrow lead in several key swing states. The figures show a drastic change of tune for Trump, who has long blasted the Commission on Presidential Debates as biased. Trump had previously issued a debate challenge to Biden earlier this month, something that the Democratic president simply shrugged off. The latter claimed that his predecessor currently has nothing else to do. The exchange suggests that both parties all but believe that the two candidates will be their respective nominees despite the primary season still ongoing. Furthermore, it also reflects their debate strategy so far in the election cycle, said CNBC. Related Article: Donald Trump Lists Down Potential Candidates for VP Spot in 2024 Election HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Parents of children at a Huntersville charter school claim their students dont feel safe on campus. Some parents of students at Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy say officials arent addressing ongoing concerns about bullying and disparities in discipline for the school in its first year of operation. More than a dozen parents crowded into the conference room Tuesday night at the Poplar Tent Road campus to express concerns about bullying, student performance and discipline dipartites. Charlotte high school at center of desegregation sees flip in racial makeup as key players recount experiences Braunte Mowbray was one of several parents who signed up to speak at the meeting. She recently pulled her student out of the academy after multiple reports of bullying. There was bullying time and time again, and administrative staff didnt do anything about it, Mowbray said. Just unfair practices, me coming to the school just trying to make sure my daughter was safe, and she didnt feel safe here. During Tuesdays meeting, another parent claimed her son was assaulted and bullied last November. The parent says the student involved only received a three-day out-of-school suspension. The mother says, a few months later, her son got a two-day out-of-school suspension after a verbal altercation. Bonnie Cone opened its Leadership Academy in fall 2023 for the 7-12 grade level. Hes not even the only one, there have been other kids who have been bullied and nothing has been done, Mowbray said. Thats why you see a bunch of parents here who want to speak up who want to get things changed in the school. Their claims follow a nationwide trend of discipline disparities between students of different races. Data from the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights shows Black students in North Carolina make up 25 percent of the population and account for 34 percent of out-of-school suspensions. Meanwhile, white students make up 44 percent of the population and account for 45 percent of out-of-school suspensions. Since Bonnie Cone is a new school at the 7-12 grade level, theres not enough data available online to evaluate it. The organizations Classical Academy serves grades pre-K-6 and opened in 2019. Campus layout of North Meck makes it easier for guns to get into school, CMS leaders say Members of Bonnie Cones board of directors says they are taking a closer look at their policies. Thats one of the things were looking at in closed sessions, as an administration, said Kyle King, secretary of the Bonnie Cone Board of Directors. Were collectively working together to figure out what is the root of these causes so that we can be able to not just reprimand our students, but support them in their transition not only throughout school, but into adulthood as well. King says administration will prioritize equity, safety and student performance with measurable goals. Our number one priority is academic performance because at the end of the day, were an educational institution and our number one priority is the academics of our students, King said. After that is safety, if our students dont feel heard, if they dont feel seen, if they dont feel supported, if they feel bullied if there are physical altercations those things are unacceptable. So, how I would measure that is a decrease in incident reports and a decrease in suspensions. Administrators have rolled out a new program called Ambassadors for Compassion for seventh- and eighth-grade students as a part of the solution to bullying concerns. Mowbray hopes parents strength in numbers will help spark change at the school so she can feel comfortable sending her children to the upper school. What I feel good about tonight is that all of these parents that are here right now, Mowbray said. Even if they came just to hear, I like the parents showing tonight and I remember when it was just me by myself and [administration] didnt hear anything. Bonnie Cone is managed by Charter One, a nationwide company based in Arizona. Melody Hudson, director of Marketing and PR for Charter One sent a statement about parents concerns at the meeting, saying in part: Though we cannot discuss specific details of student discipline situations, we can confirm that all students are held to the same level of expectations and that disciplinary actions are made under a fair and equitable process, regardless of any defining factors, Hudson wrote. She continued, In regard to the allegations levied at tonights board meeting, they were provided without pertinent context and, in some cases, were factually inaccurate. We will continue to engage parents on their concerns and work to find appropriate solutions that make our school the best it can be. One of those solutions is the Ambassadors Compassion Program, which is a student-led initiative, guided in partnership with adults, to provide students with important skills to overcome common life challenges. The board of directors meets again March 19 online and in person. Parents say they will keep showing up and hope to stay involved to push for solutions for better student outcomes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. Missouri Governor Mike Parson is dispatching 200 National Guardsmen and 22 troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol to the U.S.-Mexican border. The state currently has roughly 250 Missouri National Guard members deployed to the southern border, but the governor wants more boots on the ground. Earlier this month, Parson met with governors from more than a dozen states in Eagle Pass, Texas, to get a better idea of Operation Lone Star and to offer more resources. Eagle Pass is a Texas city that has become a flashpoint in the immigration debate. The discourse started after the state and U.S. Border Patrol agents began denying entry into the county. Abbott touted the states efforts during the visit to reinforce border security, like installing additional razor wire. Tuesday, Parson announced who and what he is sending to the border. Missouri may not be physically located on the border with Mexico, but the Biden Administrations open border policies have been made this crisis a Missouri crisis, Parson said. The primary mission is to help the state of Texas in construction barriers to entry and supporting security patrols as needed. Following Parsons first trip to the border this month, where he met with Gov. Greg Abbot and several other governors, Missouri plans to send more troops to the southern border in the coming weeks. Parsons plan to send up to 200 Missouri National Guard members and 22 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers is estimated to cost the state $2.3 million. Were still refining our operational details with the Texas Department of Public Safety, but a plan right now is for us to be partnered with a Texas trooper riding with them and in their vehicles near the border and answering calls, Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Eric Olson said. Parson said hes concerned about how many people are coming across the border, blaming the high fentanyl deaths in the state on the lack of border control. In 2022, 43 Missouri children died from fentanyl exposure. It all stems from the Biden Administrations reckless, irresponsible and failing open border policy, Parson said. States can and must protect themselves against the federal government when the federal government refuses to do so. Basketball Wives star British Williams in custody of U.S. Marshals after not showing up to prison Although Missouri already has 250 National Guard members working with the Biden Administrations U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, this is a separate mission. Through the coordination that weve done with the Texas National Guard, our troops will be supporting barrier emplacements, Missouri National Guard Adjutant General Levon Cumpton said. Exactly what type of barrier, that they will decide on the ground. Missouri is joining 14 other states in deploying resources to the southern border. The mission is set to last 90 days, though it could be extended. Critics will say we have our own battles within our own Missouri borders and while that is certainly true, we would much rather do what we can to fight this fight on the southern border than let it take root in our own backyard, Parson said. Eleven Missouri Highway Patrol troopers will have boots on the ground in Texas on March 1. During the mission, its possible that up to 22 troopers could be deployed. Parson said all troopers who are being deployed volunteered for the mission. The National Guard members will follow, with the first deployment to be active in Texas on March 10. According to Parsons office, the guard members will be on a rotating basis for approximately 30 days. Democrats called Parsons meeting at the southern border political theater, saying Republicans want to run on immigration in the next election. Its a show, Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, said earlier this month. I mean, the Biden Administration put forward a plan that was broken by Republicans and Democrats together to try and solve the crisis at the border. Theres a crisis at the border and there is something that needs to be done about it. In a statement following Parsons announcement Tuesday, Missouri Democratic Party Executive Director Matthew Patterson said, Governor Parsons decision to double down his political theater at the southern border instead of urging his Republican colleagues in Congress to support the bipartisan border agreement is not surprising but is deeply shameful. Missouri Republicans have demonstrated time after time that they will always choose to play political games over doing their jobs no matter who is put at risk. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Boston was diverted to Denver on Monday after a passenger allegedly saw the wing coming apart. Just about to land in Denver with the wing coming apart on the plane, Kevin Clarke said in a video obtained by CBS News. Cant wait for this flight to be over. Photos of the damaged wing also appeared on Reddit. Sitting right on the wing and the noise after reaching altitude was much louder than normal. I opened the window to see the wing looking like this, user @octopus_hug wrote next to a photo that appeared to show a plane wing with holes in it. How panicked should I be? Do I need to tell a flight crew member? Ill be very relieved once we land, they added. The Reddit user said that another passenger alerted flight attendants to the problem before all the passengers were put on a different plane that landed in Boston early on Tuesday morning. Photo provided by Kevin Clarke shows a United Airlines plane with damage to one of its wings (AP) A United Airlines spokesperson confirmed that the Boeing 757-200 plane, which had 165 passengers on board, was diverted safely to Denver on Monday to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft. United Flight 354 diverted to Denver yesterday afternoon to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft, the spokesperson told The Independent in a statement. The flight landed safely and we arranged for another aircraft to take our customers to Boston. Boeing has been under scrutiny since a door panel on a different kind of aircraft, a 737 Max 9, blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. The plane was diverted safely to Denver (AP) Several passengers on board were injured in the incident, which grounded all Boeing 737 Max 9s and prompted investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Transportation Safety Board, into the aircraft manufacturer and Spirit AeroSystems, which made the doorplug. Reports released since have suggested the plane did not have the critical bolts it needed to keep the doorplug in place when it left the factory. Following the incident, Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, which operate 79 of the planes, said they, too, found loose bolts on some of their aircrafts. Earlier this month, the head of the FAA pledged to use more people to monitor aircraft manufacturing and hold Boeing accountable for any safety rule violations. BOSTON - A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Boston was diverted to Denver on Monday because of an issue with the plane's wing - and a worried passenger on board captured the apparent problem on video. "Just about to land in Denver with the wing coming apart on the plane," Kevin Clarke says in a video shared with CBS News. "Can't wait for this flight to be over." A United flight to Boston was forced to divert to Denver because of a wing issue. / Credit: Kevin Clarke There were 165 passengers on board the Boeing 757-200, which landed safely in Denver. Clarke said the wing issue became apparent after takeoff from San Francisco. "United flight 354 diverted to Denver yesterday afternoon to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft," a spokesperson for United told WBZ-TV in a statement. "The flight landed safely and we arranged for another aircraft to take our customers to Boston." Another passenger shared a photo of the wing on Reddit mid-flight. "Sitting right on the wing and the noise after reaching altitude was much louder than normal. I opened the window to see the wing looking like this," user octopus_hug wrote. "How panicked should I be? Do I need to tell a flight crew member? A passenger took a picture of apparent damage on the wing of a plane that was forced to divert to Denver. / Credit: Kelly Beagan The user said another passenger alerted flight attendants to the problem. "I'll be very relieved once we land," they said. The passengers were put on a different plane and landed in Boston early Tuesday morning. Boeing has been under scrutiny since a door panel on a different kind of aircraft, a 737 Max 9, blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. Earlier this month, the head of the FAA pledged to use more people to monitor aircraft manufacturing and hold Boeing accountable for any safety rule violations. What Capital One buying Discover could mean for consumers Haley defies calls from Trump to drop out of 2024 race Putin crackdown widens, Russian-American arrested and charged with treason Hashtag Receipts Another day, another freak incident on a plane and this time, there's footage. As NBC 10 Boston reports, passenger Kevin Clarke said he was "kind of sleepy" when the pilot of the Boeing 757 on which he was riding appeared near his seat about 45 minutes into their flight from San Francisco to Boston. "I wasnt paying much attention at that point," Clarke told the local news station, "but then [the pilot] goes back to the cockpit and he comes on the PA and says, 'Weve discovered we have some damage on one of the front flaps and were going to divert to Denver and put you all in a different plane.'" It was during that emergency landing that the man filmed a video of the problem, which was later shared in a public Facebook post by his wife: part of the wing had somehow been torn up and could be seen visibly flapping. https://twitter.com/ksullivannews/status/1759885603657691448 Speaking with local reporters, Clarke said he heard an "incredibly loud vibration" during takeoff and his fellow passenger, identified only by their Reddit username "octopus_hug," seems to have shared that same experience. "Sitting right on the wing and the noise after reaching altitude was much louder than normal," the user said in a post on r/UnitedAirlines that featured a photo of the wing damage mid-flight. "I opened the window to see the wing looking like this. How panicked should I be? Do I need to tell a flight crew member?" Not Again As the airline confirmed to NBC10 and other news outlets, none of the 165 passengers on the 757 were harmed during the incident, and they were rerouted on other flights back to Boston. All the same, it's still incredibly jarring especially considering that this is at least the sixth time this year, including three other incidents with Boeing aircrafts, that scary plane circumstances have made headlines. In January, Boeing came under fire first for one of its doors straight up flying off in the middle of a flight, and again when another of its planes got a crack in the cockpit window, plus when yet another straight up caught fire. In February, meanwhile, health-related incidents garnered the worst kind of attention when a man died in the air after spewing blood from his mouth and nose on one international flight and one unlucky passenger on a different intercontinental flight had maggots rain down on her from the luggage compartment. To be fair, weird and dangerous stuff happens on commercial flights all the time but with so many big stories less than two months into the year, it doesn't seem like a particularly auspicious time to fly. More on planes: Mighty Wind Propels Commercial Jets Faster Than Speed of Sound Beams and props holding up parts of the ceiling at a Norfolk hospital Disrepair in NHS buildings led to thousands of potentially-harmful incidents last year including critically-ill patients being moved when rainfall came through the ceiling. Sewage leaks, floods and failing equipment also featured in incident records obtained by the BBC under the Freedom of Information Act. Health chiefs called on the government to nearly double its capital spending. The government said "significant sums" had been invested to modernise the NHS. According to NHS data, the care of more than 2,600 acute hospital patients was disrupted last year by estates and infrastructure failure. The BBC asked 210 hospital trusts for examples, and a total of 86 trusts provided a response. Incidents included: Patients awaiting dialysis were sent home because of water supply issues Green algae growth in a hydrotherapy pool Power lost in an operating theatre Sewage leaked into a waiting area for ophthalmology Parts of a ceiling collapsed in a clinical area An operating theatre reached 29C because of a broken air conditioning unit The NHS Confederation, which represents trusts, has published a report setting out what health care leaders want the next government to prioritise. It has called on the government to increase capital spending on the health service from 7.7bn to 14.1bn. Matthew Taylor, its chief executive, said: "Put simply, a lack of capital funding can leave patients at risk." Official data shows the total repairs backlog for the NHS was 11.6bn, a rise of 13.6% on the previous year. 'A rat ran out' Rebecca, 28, and her six-year-old daughter Cleo often have to go to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn. Cleo's hypoglycaemia - a condition related to low blood sugar - means she sometimes has to stay overnight. Part of the Norfolk site was built using Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC), a material which forced 100 schools to close last year. The hospital previously had to close operating theatres because of concerns the ceiling could collapse. All theatres are now back open and the RAAC work is complete. This was one of the props in an operating theatre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital But Rebecca said staying in the children's ward during the construction was worrying. "I want to put my whole trust in the hospital," Rebecca said. "But when I'm in the children's ward and there's a massive beam that's holding the roof up, it does make me worry. "That's something you don't want to worry about when you're trying to worry about your child's health." But the roof was not Rebecca's only concern. She said that in January 2023, she saw sewage leaking on hospital grounds. "You've got a sterile area and sewage coming out of a manhole cover," she said. "There was building equipment leant up against the hospital wall and a rat ran out from under the building." A trust spokesman said it worked immediately to clear the blockage. Director of estates and facilities Paul Brooks said his team was doing its utmost to keep disruption to a minimum. He said: "We appreciate it can be disconcerting for our patients and visitors when they see building work taking place." Seriously-ill patients moved Laura - not her real name - works for Colchester Hospital, part of East Suffolk North Essex NHS Trust. She told the BBC heavy rain caused part of the ceiling on a critical care ward to swell and tiles to bulge. Laura said no one was hurt, but her colleagues had to move patients to a neighbouring part of the hospital while a clean-up was undertaken. "We're talking patients on life support, multi-organ failure - and they all had to be moved over to the other side of the unit," she said. Laura said it was the second time rainfall had come through the ceiling on the ward. She said black aspergillus mould was found, which can cause breathing difficulties. Nick Sammons, director of estates and facilities at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said keeping patients safe was the trust's "number one priority". He said: "We took the highest level of precautions and actions possible. This included safely moving patients out of the affected area, deep cleaning and a full assessment of what happened. "We are also replacing part of the roof to prevent any future incidents." Trust's 25m annual repair bill The chief analyst for health think tank The King's Fund, Siva Anandaciva, said the deteriorating condition of some NHS buildings should act as a "wake-up call" for the government. He said: "Despite pledges to build and refurbish NHS hospitals, the data clearly shows how some NHS facilities are simply not fit for the purpose of delivering modern health care." Several hospital leaders said they were struggling to maintain ageing buildings, which "predate the NHS" at some sites. Imperial College in London had the largest high-risk repair backlog in 2022-23 at more than 392m. A high-risk repair "must be urgently addressed to prevent catastrophic failure or major disruption to clinical services", according to NHS Providers. Eric Munroe, Imperial College's director of estates and infrastructure, said: "Much of our estate pre-dates the NHS - some of our buildings are nearly 180 years old." He said the trust spends 25m annually on the "highest risk maintenance issues" to keep it safe and operating. He added the only realistic way of properly addressing the maintenance backlog would be a full rebuild of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington. All three of the trust's main hospitals are included in the Government's New Hospital Programme. Other trusts also highlighted the age of their buildings. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said large parts of its sites dated "as far back as Victorian times", while Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust said it was "delivering 21st century healthcare in 20th century buildings". It faces a 2m annual bill to maintain the tower at Wycombe Hospital, which contains its intensive care unit and operating theatres. A Department of Health and Social Care spokeswoman said the government had invested "significant sums to upgrade and modernise NHS buildings" including 4.2bn this financial year. She added: "Trusts are responsible for prioritising this funding to maintain and refurbish their premises, including the renewal and replacement of equipment." Additional investment of over 20bn for the New Hospital Programme is expected, alongside nationally funded infrastructure improvements in mental health, urgent and emergency care and diagnostic capacity. Additional reporting: Paul Lynch, Jonathan Fagg and Alex Homer Patty Hearst turned 70 on Tuesday. That might not mean a great deal to some of you. But to a generation very much alive, that name should bring back some vivid memories, some images of a rifle-toting young woman who was at the center of one of the most colorful, extensively reported crimes of the last or any century. Whats she been up to? Well, she is now known as Patricia Hearst Shaw and for many years has been in the news mostly for her dogs. A couple of her French bulldogs (Tuggy and Rubi) won prizes, including some at the prestigious and televised Westminster Kennel Club dog show. What was she up to 50 years ago? You might remember that on the morning of Feb. 4, 1974, she was a 19-year-old University of California at Berkeley student when she was kidnapped from her apartment near campus. She was taken by a group of armed men and women who called themselves the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a group that was intent on starting a war against the U.S. government. This gang knew that since Hearst was from a wealthy, powerful family the granddaughter of William Randolph Hearst (see Citizen Kane) this kidnapping would make for front-page news and constant TV coverage. It sure did, day after day after day The SLA released audiotapes demanding money and food in exchange for Hearsts release and kept up the heat by releasing a wild tape on which she claimed to have joined the SLAs fight against the U.S. On tape, she denounced her family, claimed allegiance to the SLA and said that she was to be called by her new name, Tania. Days later came a film of Hearst participating in a bank robbery with the SLA in San Francisco. Hearst and her new pals kept on the run until Sept. 18, 1975, when FBI agents nabbed her and others. She was tried for robbery and other crimes, found guilty and sentenced to seven years in prison. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter commuted her sentence after she had served 22 months, and she was pardoned decades later by President Bill Clinton. She drifted off into a comfortable life of marriage to Bernard Shaw, a cop who had been a member of her security detail (he died in 2013), their two children (girls Lydia and Gillian) and her dogs. She did charity work, appeared in a couple of movies, some documentaries and even wrote a book, with Alvin Moscow, 1982s Every Secret Thing. But she never left the mind of Roger D. Rapoport, who has published a fascinating and entertaining new book titled Searching for Patty Hearst. This is not merely some rehashing of the story and there have been plenty of those (one of the best is legal analyst Jeffrey Toobins American Heiress: The Wild Saga of the Kidnapping, Crimes and Trial of Patty Hearst in 2016.) Rapoports book is a knowledgeable reimagining, cleverly plotted, stylishly told. As he writes, The facts of the Patty Hearst case have been the subject of both a legal and journalistic debate for many decades. Today the true story as presented from many points of view continues to raise just as many questions as it answers. Rapoport has been closely involved with the case since he was a young reporter and he has had contact with some of the principals, even writing his own, unpublished non-fiction version. I am reluctant to spoil the many twists and surprises of this book. Heres a small sample, set the day of the kidnapping: Patty sat, tied up and gagged in a Daly City safe house closet on Northridge Drive, just a few miles from the epicenter of the great 1906 San Francisco earthquake. A portable radio turned up full blast made it impossible for her to follow the kidnappers discussion. It is a quick and satisfying read. As Rapoport writes, I wrote this novel because I believed the American public deserved nothing but the truth. Very sorry about the delay. This book took a lot longer that I expected. Hope it was worth the wait. It was indeed. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) accused a nongovernmental organization (NGO) of facilitating illegal immigration in a new lawsuit. Paxton announced Tuesday that his office had sued the Annunciation House a Catholic NGO that operates several houses of hospitality for migrants and refugees in El Paso, Texas; and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. It describes itself as an entry point for many of its guests, which can include those looking for work in the U.S., undocumented families and those who have fled violence in their home countries. Paxtons office said it reviewed public record information that suggests the Annunciation House engaged in legal violations such as facilitating illegal entry to the United States, alien harboring, human smuggling, and operating a stash house. According to the press release, the office asked the Annunciation House for certain specified records to look into possible violations, but the NGO did not hand over any documents. In response to the offices document request, the NGO said it asked a court to decide what documents the law permits the Attorney General to access, adding there is nothing illegal about asking a Court to decide peoples rights. Paxtons office has argued it has complete and unlimited authority to examine business records to ensure that entities operating within the State are doing so lawfully. Now, Paxtons office is seeking to revoke the Annunciation Houses authorization to conduct business in Texas and is asking the district court in El Paso to appoint a receiver who will liquidate their assets. The chaos at the southern border has created an environment where NGOs, funded with taxpayer money from the Biden Administration, facilitate astonishing horrors including human smuggling, Paxton said in a statement. While the federal government perpetuates the lawlessness destroying this country, my office works day in and day out to hold these organizations responsible for worsening illegal immigration. The Annunciation House said in a press release responding to the lawsuit that its mission is no different than schools that teach the children of refugees or hospitals that treat migrants and refugees. The Attorney Generals illegal, immoral and anti-faith position to shut down Annunciation House is unfounded. Annunciation House has provided hospitality to hundreds of thousands of refugees for over forty-six years, the organization said. If the work that Annunciation House conducts is illegal so too is the work of our local hospitals, schools, and food banks, it added. The Hill has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security and the Annunciation House for further comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BOGOTA (Reuters) - Peace talks between the Colombian government and National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels are in crisis, the guerrilla group said, while the government accused the rebels of dragging out the process. The two sides restarted talks in 2022 as part of President Gustavo Petro's bid to reach "total peace" between the government and various armed groups, whose six-decade conflict has killed at least 450,000 people. The ELN said the government's participation in regional talks with communities in the province of Narino went against its agreement with the ELN to hold a national dialogue with the support of bodies like the United Nations. "Now this farce, dressed up as regional dialogue, is public, the process enters into open crisis and we are obliged to recall our delegation for consultations," the ELN said in a statement posted on its website late on Tuesday. It said the peace talks, which are between negotiating cycles, would be "frozen" until the government adjusts its position. The government has complied with all its commitments, its negotiating team said in its own statement, and is holding conversations with local communities at their request. "The decisions unilaterally taken by the ELN are their complete responsibility, and they generate unnecessary crisis that prolongs the armed confrontation and the violence that communities suffer, as well as weakening society's confidence in (the rebels') will for peace," the government delegation said in a statement early on Wednesday. The ELN will respond with force to any break in a recently-extended ceasefire with the government, leader Antonio Garcia told Reuters this week. The group, founded in 1964 by radical Catholic priests, has 5,800 members, including some 3,000 combatants, and agreed after an earlier cycle in the talks to end kidnapping for ransom. (Reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb and Luis Jaime Acosta; editing by Philippa Fletcher) Former Vice President Mike Pences political advocacy group plans to invest $20 million this year to shape the conservative agenda, an effort to directly counter what Pence had previously described as populism unmoored to conservative principles. Advancing American Freedom, which Pence launched in 2021, announced Wednesday the creation of the American Solutions Project, a three-prong effort to push more traditional conservative policy priorities during an election year likely to be dominated by former President Trump. Our nation was founded on conservative principles that have stood the test of time. The Constitution and this great American experiment must not be swayed by movements or personalities, but must hold fast to the time-honored principles that have made America strong and prosperous and free, Pence said in a statement to RealClearPolitics, which first reported on the new effort. The new project, an outline of which was obtained by The Hill, will have three main objectives. The first will be to shape political majorities by creating a policy platform for candidates to embrace and reverse the Rights drift toward populism and the Lefts embrace of socialism. The second piece is focused on championing conservative legislation and advancing Pences policy priorities, which include promoting free trade, limiting government spending, restoring U.S. leadership on the world stage, and confronting China. The third and final part of the project is aimed at protecting conservative principles, such as limited government. The $20 million investment will allow Advancing American Freedom to expand its staff, build out its infrastructure and promote its work. RealClearPolitics first reported that former Heritage Foundation President Ed Feulner will join the group, as will major conservative donor Art Pope and Catholic University board of trustees chair Victor Smith. Pence has spent the three years since leaving office advocating for more traditional conservative policy principles and pushing back against the personality driven politics that have defined the Trump years of the GOP, even as Pence was a key part of those years. Pence was an unflinchingly loyal vice president for Trump throughout his first term, until the two had a falling out over Pences refusal to reject the 2020 election results on Jan. 6, 2021. Pence ran against his old boss for the 2024 GOP nomination. The former vice president frequently warned the party against following what he called the siren song of populism and questioned whether Trump was committed to conservative policy goals. Pences campaign offered detailed policy proposals and broke with Trump on support for Ukraine in its war against Russia and on the need to reform entitlement programs. But Pence failed to catch on, dropping out of the race last October. He has yet to endorse a candidate, with Trumps team projecting hell become the presumptive nominee by mid-March. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. On Wednesday, the Green Party announced the death of the New Zealand parliamentarian and Green Party member Efeso Collins, who died during a charity event in Auckland. New Zealanders, including leaders from across the political spectrum, have expressed shock and grief over the sudden death of Collins. Collins Dies After Charity Event "It is with profound shock and sadness that we can confirm that Green Party MP Efeso Collins has died," the Green Party said in a statement. The party claimed that they are devastated as a beautiful family has lost a faithful father, husband, and community leader. Collins was elected to the parliament as a Green MP in the October 2023 general election after serving as a Labour-party affiliated councilor for Auckland's Manukau ward. He ran for mayor of Auckland in 2022 but lost to Wayne Brown. He collapsed after participating in the ChildFund Water Run, a fundraising event for the charity working to bring clean drinking water to children in the Pacific. The Greens said that this cause was close to Collins's heart. The Greens said that the on-site medical team immediately went to Collin's aid and did everything they could to revive him. They noted that they were grateful to the medical team for responding immediately. "Aotearoa and the Green party have lost one of the kindest, most dedicated champions of fairness and equality," Green Party co-leaders James Shaw and Marama Davidson said. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed his shock and sadness over Collin's passing. Luxon described Collins as a decent man who was always friendly and kind. He also said he was devoted to his Samoan and South Auckland communities. Furthermore, he extended his thoughts and deepest sympathies to Collin's family, community, and colleagues. According to Labour party's deputy leader Carmel Sepuloni, Collins was a passionate advocate for their community and a role model for the people of South Auckland and New Zealand's Pacific community. She added that many people will feel the loss of this courageous man. Auckland Council chief executive Phil Wilson claimed the city had lost a devoted and inspiring leader. Wilson continued that the local government and the Auckland Council will forever remember Collins. Furthermore, the Greens said Collins dedicated his life to helping others and changing the world. They said they will continue to aspire to the dedication and commitment Collins showed to always put the greater good above their own. Read Also: Chile To Reopen Inquiry Into Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda's 1973 Death Collins Delivers Powerful Speech According to RNZ News, Collins delivered his maiden speech to parliament less than a week ago. He talked about being the youngest of six children born in the South Auckland district of Otara to parents who arrived from Samoa in the early 1960s. Collins talked about attending local schools and living in state housing as a child. He had started learning Samoan again recently and was given the chiefly title of Fa'anana from his mother's village in Samoa. He said that if he was to inspire anyone by getting to the House and his work over the next three years, he hoped it would be the square pegs, the misfits, the forgotten, the unloved, and the invisible. He continued that the dreamers want and expect more, are impatient for change, and have this uncanny ability to stretch them further. Related Article: Daiso's Billionaire Founder Dies at 80 from Heart Failure Russian Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev said on Tuesday that Moscow has successfully shipped 200,000 tons of free grain to six African countries as part of President Vladimir Putin's promise from July last year. The shipments included 50,000 tons of free grain each to Somalia and the Central African Republic along with 25,000 tons of free grain each to Mali, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea. Russia Ships Free Grain to African Countries The Russian president had promised to deliver free grain to the six African countries during a summit with African leaders in July last year. Soon after that event, Moscow pulled from a deal that had allowed Ukraine to ship grain from its Black Sea ports despite the war that Russia has been waging on its European neighbor. The Black Sea grain initiative helped to lower the prices of grain on the global market. However, Russian President Putin argued that it was failing to get supplies to the countries in most urgent need, as per AOL. In a statement, Patrushev said that after the Russia-Africa summit, they have maintained relations with African countries and built cooperation. He noted that as a result of these efforts, they were able to deliver a large volume of wheat to the countries relatively quickly. The Russian agriculture minister also said that his country is expecting to export up to 70 million metric tons of grain in the 2023-2024 agricultural year. In the previous season, Moscow shipped 66 million tons which was worth roughly $16.5 billion, according to the Straits Timers. The situation comes after Turkish President Tayyip Recep Erdogan discussed with Putin a new mechanism to allow Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea. The meeting was held during the Russian president's visit to Ankara earlier this month. Read Also: Russia Allegedly Uses North Korean Missile Against Ukraine, Contained US, European Components Black Sea Grain Initiative During an interview, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that there are currently efforts to find "new methods" to transport Ukrainian grain to the world markets. He added that the previous grain initiative worked within a certain mechanism, adding that now it has been seen that there is a possibility of going with a different mechanism. Ankara has been seeking to persuade Russia to return to the Black Sea grain deal after the agreement was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. Kyiv said that negotiations were underway to revive the deal but Moscow said that there was no prospect of ever reinstating the agreement, said Reuters. Erdogan and Putin were said to have discussed a variety of issues during their meeting, including the relationship between their two nations as well as bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov added that the two world leaders also discussed regional issues as well as Ukraine. The trip marked the Russian president's first visit to a member state of the NATO military alliance following the start of his invasion of Kyiv. This month, Turkey also ratified Stockholm's application to join NATO after Sweden applied to become a member at the same time as Finland. The two Nordic countries ended their tradition of military neutrality soon after the start of Russia's march on Ukraine, as per RUDAW. Related Article: Philippines, US Conduct Joint Air Patrol Over South China Sea Amid Maritime Tensions The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli-Gaza conflict drove up military expenditure, which in turn boosted earnings for British weapons producer BAE Systems last year, and they anticipate this pattern to continue in 2024. In 2023, the firm had record revenues of 25.3 billion ($31.9 billion) and produced underlying profits before interest and tax of 2.7 billion ($3.4 billion), as reported by The Guardian. Amid Geopolitical Tensions In the two years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, governments reevaluated their intentions for military expenditure, leading to a boom in shares of weapons manufacturers. Tensions have also been rising in the Middle East since October 7 of last year, when the militant group Hamas, which controls Gaza, launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing many people. In response, Israel has been bombing Gaza for months, resulting in the deaths of approximately 30,000 Palestinians. Bombs, ammunition, tanks, ships, fighter planes, and nuclear submarines are all part of BAE Systems' extensive product line. In an interview, BAE CEO Charles Woodburn predicted "sustained growth in the coming years" for the weapons company. "Instability in Europe, the Middle East and other parts of the world brings into sharp focus the vital role that we play in protecting national security." See Also: Prince William Weighs In on Israel-Hamas War: 'Too Many Have Been Killed' More Sales Anticipated On Wednesday morning, February 21, BAE's share price fell almost 3% due to somewhat lower-than-expected margins. Nonetheless, the firm is still at record highs, and its market value is about 38 billion ($48 billion). The value of its shares has increased by more than 100% since February 2022. Sales were projected to increase by 10% to 12% in 2024, according to the company. A new fighter plane developed by Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom as part of the global combat air program and the Aukus accord, which included the United States, Britain, and Australia in the construction of nuclear-powered attack submarines, respectively, bolstered its long-term order book last year. BAE said the significance of autonomous technology has been brought to light by the conflict in Ukraine, which has emphasized the necessity for munitions and the maintenance of legacy capabilities. See Also: 2024 Raisina Dialogue: India's Chief of Defence Staff to Lead Major Geopolitical Talks During Conference A Trident missile misfired and crashed into the ocean and almost hit a Vanguard-class nuclear missile submarine from where it was launched in a recent launch test of the UK's nuclear deterrent. The British Ministry of Defense confirmed that the incident happened during a Jan. 30 exercise involving the HMS Vanguard while off the coast of Florida. The crew successfully completed its drill after the Trident 2 missile was propelled off the surface of the ocean by compressed gas in the launch tube. However, the missile's first-stage boosters did not ignite, causing it to splash into the ocean and sink. The missile was fitted with dummy warheads. "It left the submarine but it just went plop, right next to them," a British defense source told The Sun on the condition of anonymity. The Vanguard launched the test missile under the surface but was not hit by the missile as it plunged back into the Atlantic. It was also revealed that British Defense Minister Grant Shapps and First Sea Lord Adm. Ben Key were board the Vanguard during the failed test. Read Also: Navalny's Death Takes Center Stage at 2024 Munich Security Conference Second Time Failure A frantic probe immediately began to find out what went wrong and a search was ordered to recover the classified missile technology from the seabed off the coast of Port Canaveral in the US's Florida state. The launch test failure was the second in a row for the Royal Navy since 2016 when a Trident fired from HMS Vengeance veered off course and self-destructed. Despite the setback, British defense officials insisted that they were confident that the misfire was "event specific" and would not jeopardize the whole nuclear missile submarine fleet, which was composed of four Vanguard-class submarines, all of which have been in operation beyond its service life. Crucially, it was understood that had the firing taken place on a real patrol mission rather than under test conditions, it would have been successful. However, no further details were being made public about what went wrong on the grounds of "national security," despite calls from the opposition Labour Party to improve the development of the UK's nuclear deterrent. "HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work," a Whitehall statement shared to local media said. "The UK's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective." Related Article: US Warship Shoots Down Another Missile Fired by Houthis Over Red Sea Indian police fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse farmers participating in a protest march towards New Delhi on Wednesday (Feb. 21) after they rejected a government offer on prices for their produce, prompting another offer of fresh talks. According to Reuters, the farmers mostly came from the northern state of Punjab, and they have been demanding higher prices backed by law for their crops, forming an influential bloc of voters Prime Minister Narendra Modi could not afford to disenfranchise ahead of May's general elections. All of the farmers have used multiple radial roads leading towards Delhi, some of them bringing tractors, cranes, and excavators. However, they were stopped by police stationed at barricades on the border of Punjab state with Haryana after they fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse the farmers. "It is not right that such massive barricades have been placed to stop us," Jagjit Singh Dallewal - one of the leaders of the farmers' protest - said. "We want to march to Delhi peacefully. If not, they should accede to our demands." The chief of Haryana police ordered late Tuesday (Feb. 20) to immediately seize the farmers' heavy equipment to keep protesters from using it to destroy the barricades. Police estimated that the protesting farmers numbered about 10,000, bringing with them 1,200 tractors and wagons to the town of Shambhu on the state border. Read Also: Angry Farmers Storm Brussels to Protest EU Summit Modi's Government Urges Farmers to Negotiating Table The police action came as Modi's government made a new offer to resume talks on farmers' demand for guaranteed crop prices. "The government is ready to discuss all the issues," Indian Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. "I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace." On the other hand, another farmers' leader, Sarwan Singh Pandher, told local media that they would discuss among themselves how to respond. Earlier this week, the farmers rejected the government's previous proposal for five-year contracts and guaranteed support prices for produce like corn, cotton, and pulses. An earlier government proposal of minimum support prices to farmers who diversify their crops to grow cotton, pigeon peas, black matpe, red lentils, and corn was rejected by the protesters, who wanted additional food grain covered. Related Article: Indian Farmers Use Kites To Battle Police Drones Trying To Disperse Demonstrators Syrian military officials and state media claimed that an Israeli airstrike killed two people after a munition hit a residential building in the Kafr Sousa district in the capital, Damascus, on Wednesday (Feb. 21). A military source cited by Syrian state TV said that the strike, which allegedly happened at about 09:40 local time (06:40 UTC), also wounded a number of other people. The deceased were identified as civilians. Images published by Syrian state media showed the damage the building sustained, with the defense source saying that the "attack did not achieve its aims." Witnesses to the blast heard several back-to-back explosions, which scared children at a nearby school, while ambulances rushed to the scene. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Read Also: US Strikes Destroy Most Iranian Militia Targets in Syria and Iraq Syria's 'Little Iran' Reuters reported that Kafr Sousa - the neighborhood within the Syrian capital that hosts residential buildings, schools, Iranian cultural centers, and even a nearby heavily guarded complex used by security agencies - was previously attacked in February 2023 and killed Iranian military experts. Meanwhile, Iran's semi-official Student News Network said that no Iranian citizens were killed in the strike. The Shi'ite Muslim religious regime has been a major supporter of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad during Syria's 12-year-old civil conflict. Since Iran was supporting the current Syrian regime, as well as the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Syria has drawn regular Israeli air strikes meant to curb Tehran's extraterritorial military power. Such strikes increased after Israel retaliated against Hamas after its Oct. 7 attack, with a handful of Iranian Revolutionary Guards officers killed in suspected Israeli strikes on Syria since December. As a result, the Guards have scaled back deployment of their senior officers in Syria and have planned to rely more on allied Shi'ite militia to preserve their sway there, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters earlier this month. Related Article: US Coast Guard Foils Weapon Shipment to Houthi Militants in Arabian Sea Iran's oil minister claimed on Wednesday that a series of explosions on an Iranian natural gas pipeline was caused by an Israeli sabotage attack, further escalating tensions between the regional enemies amid Israel's war on Gaza. The comments by Iran's Oil Minister Javad Owji follow accusations blaming Israel for a series of attacks targeting Tehran's nuclear program. The "explosion of the gas pipeline was an Israeli plot," Owji said, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. "The enemy intended to disturb gas service in the provinces and put people's gas distribution at risk." He added, "The evil action and plot by the enemy was properly managed." Owji provided no evidence to support his claims. The Associated Press reported the blasts on Feb. 14 hit a natural gas pipeline running from Iran's western Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province up north to cities on the Caspian Sea. The roughly 1,270-kilometer (790-mile) pipeline begins in Asaluyeh, a hub for Iran's offshore South Pars gas field. This Is Not The First: Owji had previously compared the attack to several mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011, which happened to coincide with the anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran also marked the 45th anniversary of the revolution just days before the pipeline blasts. According to the AP, Israel has carried out attacks on Iran that have mainly targeted its nuclear program. Last week, the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog warned that Iran is "not entirely transparent" regarding its atomic program, particularly after an official who once led Tehran's program announced the Islamic Republic has all the pieces for a weapon "in our hands." Groups that Tehran is allegedly arming in the region, such as Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels, continue to launch attacks targeting Israel over their war in Gaza. Iran's nuclear program has only added to the rising concern as the Houthis prolong their strikes on commercial shipping in the region despite a month of U.S.-led airstrikes. Al Jazeera reported no casualties from the attack on the pipeline. However, an Israeli airstrike hit a neighborhood in Syria's capital, Damascus, on Wednesday. Israel has struck Syria several times as it allegedly believes members of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard are hiding there. State media reported supplies had been disrupted in the provinces of North Khorasan in the northeast, Lorestan in the west, and Zanjan in the northwest. Some state election officials have expressed disdain that Congress has yet to set forth federal money that they have come to rely on to cover the cost of securing systems from attacks, updating equipment, and staff training. Election officials are tasked with a long list of obstacles to overcome this year, including the potential for cyberattacks from foreign operatives, criminal ransomware gangs attacking computer systems, and the growing persistence of election misinformation that has only become more pervasive with the advent of artificial intelligence. Lack of Federal Election Funds Jocelyn Benson, the Secretary of State of Michigan, has said that it is "demoralizing and disappointing" that the federal government still has committed to funding portions of this year's presidential election. "We are managing federal elections that are the foundation of who has power at the federal level and trying to manage a lot of different competing risks and challenges that have only escalated in recent years," said Benson, a Democrat. "It makes us feel like we're on our own." Since the federal government decided to add voting systems to the list of critical infrastructures in 2016, Congress has sent $995 million to states for election administration and security needs. The state of Colorado has used the money to develop a system for voters to track ballots and pay for training for election officials. In Florida, officials have designated funds for increased security of the state's voter registration system. Allocating the Money Money is being used to replace voting machines and add cybersecurity staffing in other states. The majority of federal funding was dulled out ahead of the 2020 election. States used that money to sure up cybersecurity defenses and have been all but exhausted since that time. Another $400 million was required to be spent to cover pandemic-related election costs for years ago. Congress approved another $75 million in December 2022. State allocations ranged from $5.8 million for California to $1 million for Nevada. "Los Angeles elections alone cost $75 million," said Kathy Boockvar, the former chief elections official in Pennsylvania. "I don't think election officials have had expectations of $400 million. People have hoped for $75 million, and it's unclear whether even that will come." Budget negotiations on the federal level have been bogged down by partisanship, and most federal agencies are still operating on budgets and spending levels, which were approved in 2023. Congress has only been able to approve temporary funding plans that only cover a few months at a time. March 1st is the next deadline when the most recent temporary funding plan expires for some departments and a week later for others. The government is in danger of suffering a potential shutdown if funding is not approved. There's no guarantee of new money for all elections, even if a deal is reached at the last minute. Last year, House Republicans listed election security grants as "wasteful spending" and did not allocate money for the issue in the proposals. Instead, focusing on legislation that would ban private organizations from providing money to election offices. "Americans deserve to have confidence in our elections, which means elections should be free from undue private influence," U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, a Wisconsin Republican who chairs the Committee on House Administration, said at a recent hearing. Three pandas to leave Belgian animal park for China Xinhua) 09:16, February 21, 2024 Giant panda "Bao Mei" has birthday meal at the Pairi Daiza zoo in Brugelette, Belgium, Aug. 6, 2022. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Pairi Daiza, a Belgian animal park on Tuesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this autumn and a farewell event will be organized. BRUSSELS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- A Belgian animal park on Tuesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this year. Tian Bao, born in 2016, and twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019, will leave Pairi Daiza Park in Hainault in the autumn of 2024. "Our three 'baby' pandas, cherished by all since their arrival, will have to leave Pairi Daiza in 2024," the park said in a statement. "However, we have been incredibly fortunate to have them with us for over 4 years (for Bao Di and Bao Mei) and almost 8 years (for Tian Bao)." The sending of the pandas to China is part of an initial agreement between Pairi Daiza and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA). When the parents of the three pandas, Hao Hao and Xing Hui, arrived in Belgium in 2014, a 15-year loan had been agreed. Giant panda Bao Di has birthday meal at the Pairi Daiza zoo in Brugelette, Belgium, on Aug. 16, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe) This agreement also stipulated that all descendants of the panda couple born in Belgium would go to China at the age of four, to participate in breeding and conservation programs for the species. However, the process of Tian Bao's return to China has been delayed by the restrictive measures against the coronavirus pandemic. The departure of the three pandas marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Pairi Daiza and China to protect the giant panda. "The departure of the three 'little' pandas is a further step in our commitment to the conservation of this emblematic species," the park said. Pairi Daiza is encouraging visitors to come and enjoy the last few months of Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei's presence. The park will organize special events to celebrate the three pandas' birthdays and say goodbye. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) A prominent pro-war Russian blogger has reportedly died by suicide, according to an article published by The Guardian. Andrey Morozov, who went by the pseudonym 'Murz' on Telegram, was an ultra-nationalist commentator who fought alongside Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014 and participated in Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Morozov's death follows outrage over a post in which he claimed that the Russian army lost 16,000 soldiers during the capture of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. On Sunday, Morozov revealed to his 120,000 followers on Telegram that Russia had lost 16,000 personnel and 300 pieces of armor during its months-long capture of Avdiivka. The post drew heavy criticism from senior Russian propagandists, who accused the blogger of "slandering the Russian defense ministry." Russia hides its war losses as well as the casualty toll from its invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, western officials believe the war has cost the country more than 315,000 dead and injured troops. Avdiivka Falls Avdiivka, which once had a population of 32,000, fell to Russia on Saturday, giving Vladimir Putin his biggest battlefield victory since Russian forces captured the city of Bakhmut in May 2023, reported The Guardian. Morozov left a final message for his followers on Tuesday morning, announcing his suicide and attributing the decision over pressure by his superiors to delete the post detailing the number of casualties in Avdiivka. Several people close to the reporter confirmed his death, with some saying he shot himself. Triggered in part by the rebellion by then-Wagner head Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Kremlin cracked down immensely on voices such as Morozov. Morozov was once part of a loud group of ultra-nationalists who openly criticized Moscow over weaponry shortage and accused Russian military leadership of hiding the actual death toll among its forces. What about Ukraine? Ukraine has also suffered heavily during the defense of the city. Citing Western officials, the New York Times revealed hundreds of Ukrainian troops may have been captured by Russian forces during Ukraine's retreat from the city. Ukraine blames the fall of Avdiivka on the US failure to approve critical aid. "We wouldn't [have lost] Avdiivka if we had all the artillery ammunition that we needed to defend it. Russia does not intend to pause or withdraw. ... Once Avdiivka is under their control, they undoubtedly will choose another city and begin to storm it," Ukraine's foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, said. Putin announced his troops will push further into Ukraine to build upon their success on the battlefield. "As for the overall situation in Avdiivka, this is an absolute success, I congratulate you. It needs to be built on," Putin told his defense minister, Sergei Shoigu. Don Steven McDougal, the man accused of killing 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham in Livingston, Texas, was allegedly a friend of the family. On Wednesday, McDougal was charged with capital murder according to court documents filed in Polk County and obtained by CNN. McDougal, who is already in jail in connection to an unrelated case, was ordered to be held without bond. "Video footage and cell phone data places McDougal at three locations of interest," including along the Trinity River, where Audrii's body was recovered Tuesday, according to the criminal complaint. Investigators revealed McDougal, who lived on the same property as Audrii's family, had agreed to take the girl to a school bus stop on the morning that she disappeared. In the complaint, a law enforcement official said they have evidence that "McDougal lied about his whereabouts and activities on February 15, 2024." The document went on to state that Audrii was found with a large rock tied around her body when her remains were discovered. "The rope used was consistent with a rope that was observed in McDougal's vehicle on a traffic stop two days prior," the complaint states. The Story: McDougal, a friend of Audrii's father, lived in a trailer on the family's property and sometimes took the girl to catch her school bus in the neighborhood. He has been the main person of interest in her disappearance as authorities frantically searched the rural east Texas town of Livingston. Audrii's family had entrusted McDougal to take the girl to the school bus stop, but Audrii never made it onto the bus or her classroom. The only evidence linked to her at the time was a bag resembling her bright red Hello Kitty backpack that was eventually found near a local dam. McDougal joined the search efforts for Audrii before her body was located in an east Texas river, according to authorities. Throughout the search for the missing girl, McDougal made several social media comments stating that he was not guilty of Audrii's disappearance and had "done nothing wrong." "I'm not guilty," reads a comment from the account under a post on the Facebook page "True Crime Society" the day after Audrii was reported missing. "I was there and was questioned. I am not running or hiding," McDougal wrote before commenting again and saying, "I have done everything I can to help find her. I have done nothing wrong." Her remains were found in the Trinity River, downstream from the reservoir near where the backpack was tracked. It was one of several locations McDougal told investigators he had gone around the time of her disappearance, Sheriff Byron Lyons said. Using cell phone records, video analysis, and information from McDougal, law enforcement was able to locate Audrii's location. The condition of her remains has not been released, and the Harris Country Medical Examiner's Office has yet to determine the cause of death. Criminal History: McDougal has a decadeslong criminal history that dates back to at least 2003, reported CNN. In 2007, he was convicted of enticing a child in Brazoria County, Texas. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to two years in prison. He was also convicted in 2010 and 2019 for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, which led to a four-year prison sentence. 'You Are Broken, You Are Mad, You Are Empty' The loved ones of Audrii Cunningham are still coping with the agony of her death and grappling with the criminal investigation into a suspect they once considered a family friend. Audrii's mother, Cassie Matthews, said she now understands the anguish parents must feel over their missing children, whom she would only ever hear about on the news. "There's not words for it. There is not one feeling you feel. It's a roller coaster. You are broken, you are mad, you are empty. And right now, I am empty," Matthews told CNN affiliate KPRC on Friday. "She has so many opportunities ahead of her, and she deserves every right to be able to reach those opportunities." On Thanksgiving Day, a fire ripped through the Rusty Buckle BBQ Company in New Caney. It left the back side of the restaurant, including the smokehouse, in ashes. About 48 hours later, another fire gutted Helberg Barbecue just outside of Waco. Co-owner Yvette Helberg recalls seeing a bright orange ball of light her savings and countless hours of work in flames as she and her husband raced down a dark highway toward their business. Just days before that, a fire that destroyed Horn Barbecue in Oakland, Calif., made national headlines yet another popular barbecue joint in the U.S. gone up in smoke. Fires have always posed a risk for barbecue joints and their operators who rely on smokers, grills and live fires to make a living off selling fatty slices of brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs or strands of tender pulled pork. But when those same flames burn down restaurants, a not entirely uncommon occurrence, the barbecue community and its legions of fans often band together to rescue them. It can change your life instantly, said Helberg, about a week after the November fire. We went from serving and feeding people to us being the people needing help. Advertisement Article continues below this ad HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants Helberg Barbecue started as a food truck before Helberg and her husband, Phillip Helberg, opened their brick-and-mortar space in 2019 in Woodway, located on Texas 6 on the western edge of Waco. They had put out small electrical fires before, but the kitchen fire that blazed through the space and melted some beams on the Sunday after Thanksgiving left more than smoke damage. The couple lost their business and it put 28 employees out of work. It happened just hours after lunch service concluded. Within a week, a GoFundMe campaign set up by Mallory Robbins of Evie Maes BBQ in Lubbock raised over $34,000 to help Helberg Barbecue rebuild. As of mid February, the fundraiser has raised more than $87,000 of the $100,000 goal. I think as business owners, we have a hard time taking help. We work so hard to get our businesses where they are that its uncomfortable getting all this help, Yvette Helberg said. Its a painful process, but its beautiful at the same time. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Im trying to learn to accept help, she added. Helbergs email signature includes three words: Faith - Family - Barbecue. By late December, Helberg Barbecue set up a drive-thru to sell its slow-smoked brisket, thick-cut pork shoulder and pesto-stuffed turkey breasts, among other favorites. Allen Rhoden stands outside a food trailer and the fire damaged brick and mortar building of the Rusty Buckle BBQ Company on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, in New Caney. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Recovery was similar for Allen Rhodens Rusty Buckle BBQ. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Help arrived shortly after a fire, which originated in a smoker in the pit room and caused water damage to an attic and the restaurant dining room, forcing Rhoden to close his business. A GoFundMe raised roughly $13,000 and in December, the East Montgomery County Improvement District gave Rhoden grants and loans totaling $80,000, which helped him keep his eight employees on the payroll. Rhoden recently opened a food trailer in the same location where hes planning to rebuild. When an entire establishment is destroyed, thats their livelihood changed overnight, said Catarina Bill, "chief mission officer" at the Southern Smoke Foundation. (These November) fires happened when they were going into the holidays and jobs are already scarce. At Southern Smoke, Bill and her colleagues classify these cases as hazard fires and offer financial assistance. The nonprofit helped funnel just over $20,500 to Helberg Barbecue, which amounted to about $1,400 on average per employee, according to Bill. Horn Barbecue in Oakland also received aid. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE FROM BAO ONG: Owners who split with Brazos Bagel founder reopening shop near the Heights as Space City Bagels A fire damaged door sits outside the Rusty Buckle BBQ Company on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, in New Caney. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Still, the wave of support after a fire hasnt changed the risks of fires at barbecue joints. Even smaller fires can affect businesses, such as the flames from a smoker at Goode Company BBQ off the Katy Freeway in May, which caused the restaurant to briefly close. Michael Lyons, a fire prevention specialist with the Harris County Fire Marshals Office, inspects restaurants to make sure they operate safely. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Grease fires often bear a large risk for restaurants, Lyons said. The layers of grease building up over time makes a kitchen setup more flammable, especially if restaurant staff dont regularly clean their kitchens. It can spread rapidly and unexpectedly, Lyons said. While Lyons said barbecue joints are not more prone to fires than typical restaurants, he notes that smaller, independently owned businesses tend to struggle more. They dont always keep their setups up to standard compared to big chain restaurants with more employees. Over at Helberg Barbecue, Yvette Helberg said they are well aware of risks associated with grease fires. The staff deep-cleaned their smokers weekly and kept fire extinguishers in their pit room, kitchen and restaurant. In reality, you can have all the protocols in place, but accidents can happen, Yvette Helberg said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The couple could not step into their restaurant the week following the fire because their insurance company needed to first send inspectors to evaluate the damage, she added. In a Facebook post shortly after the Thanksgiving fire, Rhoden said that he had not given up hope. Bao Ong is a restaurant columnist for the Houston Chronicle. He can be reached at bao@houstonchronicle.com He previously worked on staff at Eater New York, Bon Appetit and Time Out New York. In addition to Bao's background in journalism, he also graduated from the French Culinary Institute. He moved to Houston in summer 2022 and in his first year, he won the top award in the Comment and Criticism category awarded by the Texas Managing Editors organization. Follow where he's eating and drinking on Instagram: @baohaus The Trinity River near where law enforcement found the body of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham is seen at I-69, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Livingston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Audrii Cunningham, an 11-year-old girl, went missing on Thursday, Feb. 15, in Livingston, Texas. Polk County Sheriff's Office Polk County Sheriff Bryon Lyons speaks as he and other law enforcement officials informs the public 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was found dead in Trinity River near her home in Livingston during a press conference at the Polk County Sheriffs Office & Law Enforcement Center, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Livingston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton, left, speaks alongside Sheriff Byron Lyons, far right, as she and other law enforcement officials informs the public 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was found dead in Trinity River near her home in Livingston during a press conference at the Polk County Sheriffs Office & Law Enforcement Center, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Livingston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Don Steven McDougal has been charged with capital murder in the death of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, whose body was found Tuesday in the waters of the Trinity River. The 42-year-old man who authorities believe is tied to the homicide has a decadeslong criminal history in counties across the region and had been identified as a person of interest in the girl's disappearance for several days. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Audrii's death shook the tight-knit community of roughly 6,000 residents about 75 miles northeast of Houston. Over a hundred people filled the grounds of Livingstons Texas Craft Fair on Wednesday evening to remember Audrii. Many held purple balloons and flowers or wore purple, Audriis favorite color, as speakers included the girl's mother, Cassie Matthews. She remembered Audrii for her infectious smile and ability to make friends anywhere. I am truly blessed to have given birth to such a wonderful little girl, Matthews said. Attendees lit candles and prayed for the family in a display Matthews said she hoped her daughter could see from above. Advertisement Article continues below this ad More Information Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Friends and community members are planning a candlelight memorial Wednesday to celebrate the life of Audrii Cunningham, the girl whose body was found in the Trinity River. Investigators on Tuesday found the girls body in the Trinity River after a dayslong search, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said. Houston television station ABC13 reported McDougal was a family friend living in a trailer behind their home in Livingston. A criminal history search through the Texas Department of Public Safety shows McDougal has faced at least 14 arrests on different allegations since 2001, including encounters with the Harris County Sheriff's Office, Conroe Police Department and more. In 2008, he pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a child in Brazoria County, court records show. Officials did not immediately respond to a records request for details about that plea agreement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The charge meant he did not have to register as a sex offender. Polk County District Attorney Shelly Bush-Sitton said McDougal was already in jail on an unrelated felony charge as of Tuesday. The Livingston Independent School District on Wednesday expressed condolences to the family and friends of Audrii. The school district said she was a fifth-grader and asked people to "keep Audrii's family, teachers, friends and community in your thoughts and prayers" in a statement on Facebook. "While the details of this tragedy are still unfolding, our hearts go out to the entire community during the heartbreaking loss," Livingston ISD wrote on social media. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Livingston ISD Superintendent Brent Hawkins said that Audrii enjoyed being in school with her classmates and touched the hearts of many in the school district. In one of the halls of her school is a large student project with Audrii's name on it, Hawkins said. "What happened to Audrii was nothing short of evil and she didn't deserve that," he said. "It would be a very much disrespect to her memory if those of us as her loved ones did not demand justice in her memory." After receiving the call that Audrii was missing, Hawkins said the district worked with parents and law enforcement to aid the search. The district helped direct police to Audrii's friends for interviews and review educational records that might be of help, he said. "We had a lot of educators behind the scenes that were involved in the search as well." Hawkins said Livingston ISD's technology was used to help in the search, including bus camera footage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "The depth of the relationship that Audrii had with her classmates is exemplified in the love that's there," he said. "The same love is what's going to get our students and staff through this." Livingston ISD had counselors on hand for students struggling to cope with her death. Hawkins said sister schools have also offered extra counselors in case the demand increases this week. Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton, left, speaks alongside Sheriff Byron Lyons, far right, as she and other law enforcement officials informs the public 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was found dead in Trinity River near her home in Livingston during a press conference at the Polk County Sheriffs Office & Law Enforcement Center, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Livingston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer A day after investigators found the body of the missing 11-year-old girl, Audrii Cunningham, in the waters of the Trinity River, capital murder charges have been brought against a 42-year-old man in connection with her death. Don Steven McDougal, who has a decades-long criminal history in counties across the region, had been identified as a person of interest in the girl's disappearance for several days. Investigators on Tuesday uncovered the girls body in Trinity River after a days-long search, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE ON THIS CASE: Audrii Cunningham's body found in Trinity River after disappearance, authorities say Heres everything we know about the man suspected in the girls disappearance and death: A family friend Houston television station ABC13 reported that McDougal, 42, was a family friend living in a trailer behind their home in Livingston, about 75 miles northeast of Houston. A criminal history search through the Texas Department of Public Safety shows McDougal has faced at least 14 arrests on different allegations since 2001, including encounters with the Harris County Sheriff's Office, Conroe Police Department and more. In 2008, he pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a child in Brazoria County, court records show. Officials did not immediately respond to a records request for details about that plea agreement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The charge meant he did not have to register as a sex offender. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE CASE: Audrii Cunningham's body is found. Here is what to know about the story Polk County District Attorney Shelly Bush-Sitton said McDougal was already in jail on an unrelated felony charge as of Tuesday. Detectives were working to gather evidence to secure a capital murder charge against the suspect. A person of interest Investigators had earlier identified as a person of interest in Cunninghams disappearance, but didn't offer more details. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lyons said they used cellphone records, surveillance footage and information from McDougal on where to focus their search efforts. He shifted McDougal to the "main person of interest" after determining he was the last person to see Cunningham alive. McDougal reportedly left Cunninghams family home with her while driving his 2003 dark blue Chevrolet Suburban, a truck that authorities had identified as a vehicle of interest linked to her disappearance. Lyons identified McDougal as a friend of Cunninghams father, saying he lived in a trailer behind their house. Lyons said McDougal would also take the girl to the bus stop or directly to the school if she missed the bus. The sheriff said McDougal would not say whether he dropped the girl off at her bus stop. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Awaiting more information Cunninghams cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Science. Detectives found her body in the river Tuesday, officials said. She was last seen Thursday morning in the 100 block of Lakeside Drive in Livingston as she set off for school, toting her camouflage backpack, officials said. Her family reported her missing when she failed to come home from school. Octavia Johnson is a general assignment reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at octavia.johnson@houstonchronicle.com. Before joining the Chronicle, Octavia worked as a digital content producer at WATE-TV in Knoxville, Tenn., where she became a leader in producing fast paced, audience-focused content. Octavia graduated from UNC Pembroke with a bachelor's degree in journalism before earning her master's degree in media and communications at Norfolk State University. Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles, left, and Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath, right, visit Kashmere High School, 6900 Wileyvale Rd., Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles, left, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath, and Brandon Dickerson, principal, right, speak during a visit at Kashmere High School, 6900 Wileyvale Rd., Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Nearly a year into the state takeover, appointed Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles says he has uncovered long-standing inefficiencies, wasteful spending and redundancies that he plans to fix to free up money to support his school reforms without drawing down district savings. The superintendent said the plan unveiled Tuesday will support the addition of over 100 schools to his New Education System next year, paying for higher salaries and other elements of his controversial reform program. Though Miles did not give an estimate of how much the cuts will save or how much the expansion will cost, he promised his planned corrections would keep the districts rainy-day fund above $850 million. REPORT CARD NEWSLETTER: Sign up for a weekly recap of everything happening in and outside of Houston ISDs classrooms. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Previous Superintendent Millard House IIs administration had predicted that fund would drop to about $550 million by the end of the next school year. In order to increase the salaries at NES schools, we have to find efficiencies in the rest of the system, Miles said. The increase will be offset by efficiencies. The eight-part plan released Tuesday points to corrections in wasteful purchases, unnecessary contracts and ineffective staffing practices as steps HISD can immediately take to save tens of millions of dollars moving forward. Overhauls to district transportation and maintenance services will further cut down on inefficiencies in the long run, Miles said. The superintendent said that decades worth of mismanagement had led HISD to a precarious position, and that systems were to blame rather than individuals. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If we dont fix these systems, we cant be as efficient and effective in supporting our schools, Miles said. The findings come just shy of a year of when the Texas Education Agency announced it was taking over the states largest school system, largely due to repeated academic failure at one campus. Employees, parents and students have steadily protested both the takeover and the series of reforms that have come in its aftermath. Robert Sanborn, president and CEO of the education advocacy group Children at Risk, said the report successfully illustrates the magnitude of the issues facing HISD, and that he believes in Miles' ability to correct the districts budget. But whether Miles is capable of winning over a largely distrustful public may be another story. I dont think that this guy lies. He really cares about the data and it doesnt take much to convince people theres inefficiencies at HISD, Sanborn said. The cons to this are that I feel like inherent in this report is a little bit of mistrust of their own staff, and I think that will be hard internally. Theres already a morale issue, and Im not sure if some of these things really help, and morale is not addressed in this as well. And I dont think its Miles' strength to address morale. Advertisement Article continues below this ad HISDs report chalked up many of the districts financial problems to an unaligned and ineffective budget process that resulted in a failure to prioritize limited funds, the report states. HISD added $250 million in central office employee salaries and benefits between the 2016-17 school year and the 2022-23 school year, the report states, even as student enrollment, which determines how much money HISD receives from the state, dropped by about 27,000. An undisciplined approach to the use of $1.2 billion in federal COVID money much of which was spent on recurring contracts that would necessitate funding after the money runs out in September also contributed to the looming fiscal cliff, Miles said. He pointed to last years $20 million purchase of 175 large buses, when the district already had 225 extras in its fleet, as just one example of ill-advised spending. The transportation system in general is one area in which the district identified inefficiencies, claiming that average ridership on its 520 large bus routes is just 17 students per route. Just doubling the number of students per bus would save the district approximately $25 million a year. There has been no significant change to the methodology of transporting students or to the current system of routes and stops to make the system more cost effective while improving services for students, the report said, noting that HISD has adopted new bus management software and is working to reduce inventory of unnecessary buses. Among other items, the report also identifies an overreliance on purchase services and poor management of employees' time and responsibilities as contributing to the districts $250 million budget deficit. A review of central office operations, which resulted in cuts to hundreds of jobs over the summer, found 990 people on the employment roll who hadnt worked for the district in as many as five years, a handful of whom were still being paid, Miles said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The report states that HISD has already developed an action planning and budgeting process that includes a review of federally funded programs and a realignment of department budgets to district priorities and goals. HISD will provide the budgets for the 130 NES schools, and develop a more coherent budget template for non-NES principals to use in developing their schools' budgets. The decentralization was a central recommendation of a 2019 state review, commissioned by the Board of Trustees at the time, that identified many of the same issues raised in Tuesdays review. District V Trustee Sue Diegaard, who no longer holds formal authority on the board after the Texas Education Agency appointed a Board of Managers to replace the elected trustees last March, said that disfunction among board members kept the district from ever truly addressing those concerns. Getting the board to commission the 2019 review was a struggle in and of itself, said Diegaard, who voted for the review. ** FILE ** Amber Hagerman, 9, who was murdered after being kidnapped from an Arlington, Texas, parking lot in 1996, is shown in a file photo, date unknown, with her brother, Richard, then 5. The electronic notification system that began as "Amber Alerts" in several states was named after her. (AP Photo/Dallas Morning News, File). HOUCHRON CAPTION (02/22/2004): The Amber Alert system was named for 9-year-old Amber Hagerman, who was kidnapped and killed in Arlington. AP The 11-year-old Texas girl was last seen Thursday morning in the 100 block of Lakeside Drive in Livingston. However, an AMBER Alert was issued for her after she didn't get on the bus or return home from school. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Currently, there is a regional AMBER Alert issued for Noah Mi'aani Jah-sae Johnson who hasn't been seen for more than a week. His statewide AMBER Alert was canceled but his regional alert is still active. It was believed that his mother may have him in Kansas City, Missouri. Another statewide AMBER Alert was issued Thursday for Cecilia Alvarado, 13, who was last seen on Sunshine Street in east Harris County, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. However, she was found safe during the afternoon. So far this year, at least 12 AMBER Alerts have been issued statewide, according to the Department of Public Safety. With only one remaining as of Thursday morning Noah. Gabriella Faith Caito, 15, was found safe after a regional AMBER Alert was issued Tuesday afternoon. The Galveston Police Department believed she was seen leaving the 7000 block of Seawall Blvd., in a vehicle while on vacation with her family. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Here's what to know about AMBER Alerts in Texas: What is an AMBER Alert? The AMBER Alert System was inspired by the 1996 unsolved case of Amber Hagerman, 9, who was kidnapped in Arlington while riding her bike and found dead in a nearby creek, according to the U.S. Department of Justice's website. AMBER stands for America's Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response. Through the system, authorities send out alerts with information about the child or suspect to the public for assistance in finding missing children. Other states and communities initiated their own AMBER Alerts, 82 in total. When can an AMBER Alert be issued? In order for an AMBER Alert to be issued, law enforcement has to see if the child abduction falls into the criteria provided by the Department of Justice: Advertisement Article continues below this ad The child is 17 years old and younger Law enforcement believes an abduction occurred Law enforcement believes the child could be in danger Law enforcement received enough information about the victim and the abduction The child's name, including other additional information, was entered into the National Crime Information Center system How does an AMBER Alert work? The AMBER Alert will interrupt regular programming and broadcast on radio and television, and any Department of Transportation highway signs. Some may see AMBER Alerts shown through lottery, digital billboards, Internet Ad exchanges, Internet Service Providers, Internet search engines, and wireless devices such as mobile phones, according to the Department of Justice's website. In Texas, an AMBER Alert will show the child's name, age, description, where they were last seen and who to contact if anyone has any information. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The justice department wrote that AMBER Alerts can also "serve as deterrents to those who would prey upon children." According to the department, they found some perpetrators release the abducted children after an AMBER Alert is issued. What is the Athena Alert law? How does it correlate with the AMBER Alert? Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed the "Athena Alert" bill in June 2023 in honor of Athena Strand, 7, who was kidnapped and murdered in 2022 within Wise County. The new law didn't change the name of the AMBER Alert but initiated that law enforcement could request activation of the AMBER Alert system even if the criteria were not verified and if the chief of the law enforcement agency believed the activation was warranted, according to the 2023 news release from the Texas Department of Public Safety. The activation could happen within a 100-mile radius and counties adjacent to the last location where the child was abducted. What is a multi-state AMBER Alert? How does it work? An AMBER Alert could be issued outside of the jurisdiction of the issuing law enforcement agency, according to the Department of Justice. The AMBER coordinator must contact the state AMBER coordinators to request the alert be extended into their jurisdiction, known as a multi-state AMBER Alert activation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad WHO IS DON MCDOUGAL?: What to know about the suspect in Audrii Cunningham's death How to issue a Texas State AMBER Alert The Texas Center for the Missing provided information online for the public. The Texas Department of Public Safety is managing the Texas AMBER Alert Network which has been in operation since 2003. Law enforcement will need all information regarding the child that is missing, including physical description, photos and where they were last seen. They will also need any information on possible suspects, including any vehicle or residency, and photos are helpful as well. The person will need to fill out a state form requesting a statewide AMBER Alert if needed. There are also Regional AMBER Alert coordinators in Texas for any alert to be issued immediately. Statewide AMBER Alerts can take a few hours to process, according to the Texas Center for the Missing. For more information, contact an AMBER Alert coordinator at 832-269-2553 or support@tcftm.org. What are the other alerts for missing people, such as CLEAR and Silver, and what do they mean? Since AMBER Alert is strictly for children under the age of 17, other missing person alerts were initiated for people of different demographics: Hong Kong: HK dentists most accessible: Govt As some 1,500 dentists in Hong Kong have enrolled in the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme to provide services at over 3,300 service points, local dentists are still the most accessible channel for Hong Kong elderly people seeking dental services when compared with the few service points covered by the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme, the Health Bureau said today. It made the statement in response to the Hong Kong Dental Associations concern over the recently announced bay area health voucher pilot scheme. The pilot scheme covers seven medical institutions in the bay area, five of which provide integrated services including dental services, while the other two are dental institutions. Separately, the bureau stressed that the Government adopted a robust process for selecting the bay area institutions. From last November to early February this year, the Health Bureau and the Department of Health conducted market research, sought opinions and recommendations from the Guangdong Health Commission, and paid site visits to inspect the facilities, equipment and operation of the medical institutions. Having considered key factors including service quality, experience in management and operation, as well as fee standards and level, the Government subsequently enlisted seven high-quality institutions for inclusion in the pilot scheme. In addition, to ensure the sustainability of high-quality services, the Government is now working with various medical institutions on follow-up arrangements. In particular, a training and service assurance mechanism will be established for the bay area pilot scheme, encompassing such aspects as service quality, training and operation, fee level, complaint mechanism and patients experience. The bureau noted the pilot scheme will, like the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme being implemented in Hong Kong, be equipped with a comprehensive and robust monitoring mechanism. While the Department of Health will keep a close watch under the training and service assurance mechanism, the public may also turn to the department and the pilot medical institutions for complaints. The department is keeping contact with Mainland health authorities and will solicit their assistance when necessary, it added. This story has been published on: 2024-02-21. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Armored vehicles in maneuver training exercise China Military Online) 10:42, February 21, 2024 Armored vehicles attached to a regiment under the PLA Xinjiang Military Command march in formation during a maneuver training exercise on January 27, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Liu Tao) Armored vehicles attached to a regiment under the PLA Xinjiang Military Command march in formation during a maneuver training exercise on January 27, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Liu Tao) (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Rick Perry greets guests as he joins Dade Phelan for a Feb. 15 campaign rally at Jack Brooks Airport in Beaumont. Kim Brent Rick Perry addresses the crowd during a Dade Phelan campaign rally Feb. 15 in Beaumont. Kim Brent Rick Perry talks with guests at a Dade Phelan campaign rally Feb. 15 at Jack Brooks Airport in Beaumont. Kim Brent/Staff photographer Rick Perry welcomes Dade Phelan to the stage during a Feb. 15 campaign rally in Beaumont. Kim Brent BEAUMONT Rick Perry kind of thinks the term RINO Republican in name only, that is is sexy. The former Texas governor, stumping for House Speaker Dade Phelan in his Southeast Texas district last week, made light of recent accusations that he, Phelan and several other Republicans are actually RINOs. VOTER GUIDE: A comprehensive guide to the local and national races in the 2024 Texas Primary Advertisement Article continues below this ad I think its kind of sexy, frankly, Perry told a crowd of roughly 400 people, putting his hand on his head to mimic a rhinos horn. When you think about it its one of the baddest boys on the block, right? Attendees laughed in response but then the former governor, who also served as energy secretary under former President Donald Trump, turned serious. Dade Phelan is no more a RINO than Rick Perry, he said. Most Republicans bristle at the smear that is increasingly being weaponized against elected members of the states deeply divided GOP. Perry jokingly embraced it as he makes campaign stops across the state this election cycle to boost several House Republicans facing difficult reelection campaigns because of their votes to impeach Attorney General Ken Paxton last year. Phelan, the Beaumont Republican who has led the lower chamber through two sessions, is Paxtons No. 1 target. Early voting started Tuesday for the March 5 primary. Perry also has campaigned for state Rep. Jacey Jetton of Richmond, appeared in video ads supporting Rep. Stan Gerdes of Lockhart and endorsed Rep. Jeff Leach of Plano, among others. Perry has tried to present himself as a voice of reason during an especially tense primary season. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Separately, Gov. Greg Abbott also is targeting some Republicans because they oppose his priority private school voucher plan. Perry supports private school vouchers. READ MORE: Texas GOP leadership censures House Speaker Dade Phelan ahead of the primary election In Beaumont, Perry batted down some of the common criticisms of Phelan and his allies, including the assertion that the House speaker works too closely with Democrats and appoints some of them as committee chairs. Perry noted that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, up until recently, had a Democrat chairing a committee, and Perry made the same appointments when he was lieutenant governor. During his time in Texas politics as a state lawmaker, agriculture commissioner, lieutenant governor and governor Perry said he frequently worked with Democrats on issues that transcend party lines, such as human trafficking prevention. Hes the only high-profile Republican actively campaigning for Phelan, whose leading opponent, businessman David Covey, won the endorsements of former President Donald Trump and Paxton. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A mother and her two daughters are seen embracing during a press conference on refugees at the Annunciation House Monday, February 11, 2019, in El Paso, TX. Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San Antonio Express-News Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San Yeimi (no last name given) cries as she talks about the time she was separated from her two daughters during a press conference Annunciation House Monday, February 11, 2019, in El Paso, TX. Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San Antonio Express-News Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San Roger and his 4-year-old son Roger Jr, (only first names given) stand at the entrance to the Annunciation House, Wednesday, July 11, 2018, in El Paso, Texas. After being separated by CBP in February, the two were reunited and released by ICE late last night. Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre Ivan Pierre Aguirre Roger and his 4-year-old son Roger Jr, (only first names given) embrace during a press conference at the Annunciation House, Wednesday, July 11, 2018, in El Paso, Texas. After being separated by CBP in February, the two were reunited and released by ICE late last night. Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre Ivan Pierre Aguirre Attorney General Ken Paxton addresses the crowd during a rally in support of Republican District 21 candidate David Covey, who's looking to unseat Speaker of the House Dade Phelan in the upcoming election. Kim Brent Families and staff are seen during a press conference on refugees at the Annunciation House Monday, February 11, 2019, in El Paso, TX. Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San Antonio Express-News Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Ivan Pierre Aguirre for the San WASHINGTON Attorney General Ken Paxton is seeking to shut down a Catholic nonprofit in El Paso that has helped shelter and feed asylum seekers for decades, accusing it of operating as a stash house and taking part in human smuggling. The move against El Pasos Annunciation House comes as Republicans have grown increasingly critical of nongovernmental organizations along the border that have long assisted migrants arriving in the U.S. The groups, which often receive federal funding, help border communities manage new arrivals by taking asylum seekers off the streets and helping them find transportation to other parts of the state and country. Paxton said in a statement that Annunciation Houses efforts amount to facilitating illegal entry to the United States. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The chaos at the southern border has created an environment where NGOs, funded with taxpayer money from the Biden administration, facilitate astonishing horrors including human smuggling, Paxton said. While the federal government perpetuates the lawlessness destroying this country, my office works day in and day out to hold these organizations responsible for worsening illegal immigration. Annunciation House called Paxtons stance illegal, immoral and anti-faith. In a statement, it said that if its work is against the law, then so are the efforts of hospitals, schools and food banks that also serve migrants, regardless of their immigration status. Annunciation House has done this work of accompaniment out of the scriptural and Gospel mandate to welcome the stranger, the statement said. The conflict started earlier this month when the attorney general sought records from Annunciation House related to its work with migrants. The organization said it would provide the information, but could not meet the deadline laid out by the attorney generals investigators and sued to receive a temporary restraining order. Paxton in turn filed a counterclaim, accusing it of violating state law by refusing to turn over the records. Paxton is asking a court to revoke Annunciation Houses license to operate in Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The claim says Annunciation House assists people who enter the country and evade federal immigration officials, pointing to reporting by El Paso Matters on a family from Venezuela that was receiving assistance from Annunciation House. The mother told the outlet that she, her husband and toddler had joined other migrants who avoided the Border Patrol when crossing the Rio Grande, out of fear that agents would send them back to Mexico. It also accuses the organization of human smuggling because it contracts with a local company once or twice a week to transport migrants in passenger vans. U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, an El Paso Democrat, issued a statement sounding the alarm to other NGOs and organizations helping migrants that Paxtons suit is clearly going to be a strategy for the MAGA extremists. Escobar said she met with U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland last week and asked that the Department of Justice investigate what I believe are horrific civil rights violations. If Mr. Paxton believes that Annunciation House merits investigation, he should apply that same standard to Gov. Greg Abbott, who has literally transported a similar population across state lines, Escobar said, referencing Abbotts strategy of busing migrants to Democratic-led cities. Paxtons lawsuit comes as some Republicans in Congress have sought to eliminate federal funding for NGOs helping migrants along the border. U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, a San Antonio Republican, said he believed the request for more funding was a big part of what sank the bipartisan border bill that Senate Republicans blocked earlier this month. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Members of the Northeastern Trail Ride continue down Memorial Drive on their way to Memorial Park on the final day of the trail ride, Friday, Feb. 25, 2022. The 109-mile-long Northeastern Trail Ride originates in Cheeks, and they have been riding in the Houston Rodeo trail ride for 26 years. Mark Mulligan/Staff photographer Riders with the Northeastern Trail Ride wave to people along Lyons Avenue on their final day of a seven-day-long trail ride that started near Beaumont, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Houston. Mark Mulligan/Staff photographer Northeastern Trail Riders head toward downtown Houston on the last day of a six-day journey from Beaumont to Houston to kick off the Houston Rodeo on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023. Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer A procession of horses, covered wagons, cowboys and cowgirls are making their way to the Bayou City as part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's Texas Trail Ride tradition. The journey kicked off on Sunday, Feb. 18, with riders converging from various locations around the state. What is the Texas trail ride? The tradition began in 1952, when four men rode their horses from Brenham to Houston to promote the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Today, more than 3,000 people of all ages participate in 11 trail rides with deep-rooted traditions, covering hundreds of miles on horseback, in covered wagons, and various vehicles from different starting points across southeast Texas. This year, the Mission Trail Ride is back, traveling from Mission Espiritu Santo in Goliad State Park to Houston. All the groups will gather at Memorial Park on Friday, Feb. 23, before heading downtown to kick off the Rodeo Houston parade. THE BIG RIDE: Stunning photos show historic Black trail ride to the Houston Rodeo Advertisement Article continues below this ad When is the Rodeo Houston parade? RodeoHouston downtown parade route Ken Ellis/Staff The downtown Rodeo Parade is happening Saturday, Feb. 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will showcase floats, marching bands, horseback riders and trail ride wagons. Buc-ee's CEO Arch "Beaver" Aplin III will serve as this year's grand marshal, and the parade will feature Buc-ee's iconic beaver mascot alongside "Howdy," the rodeo's own mascot. When is the best time to catch trail riders in Houston? In the past few days, camps have been spotted by residents in Tomball, Dayton, and Crosby. Inner-city residents will get their best chance to witness the riders as they start entering Houston city limits on Friday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About 75 riders and 10 wagons travel 70 miles through Montgomery as part of the Sam Houston trail ride for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on Monday, Feb. 19, 2018, along FM 149 near FM 1488 in Magnolia. Michael Minasi/Houston Chronicle Where will the trail riders be in Houston? On Friday afternoon, riders will converge into Memorial Park from various directions, with many merging at Memorial Drive and South Picnic Lane. Some will pass the Eastern Glades entrance. For optimal viewing, the recommended spot is at Memorial Drive and Memorial Loop. Find the trail map and daily schedules here for more details. Two people have been found guilty after establishing a "sophisticated scheme to defraud Apple out of millions of dollars' worth of iPhones," confirmed the U.S. Department of Justice. The U.S. Attorney's Office announced that Haotian Sun and Pengfei Xue were found guilty by a federal jury. Both were charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and mail fraud. Read Also: Apple Explicitly Tells Users to Avoid Using Uncooked Rice to Dry Wet Phones Chinese Nationals Found Guilty of iPhone Scheme In a press release, Sun, Xue, and other conspirators defrauded Apple by submitting counterfeit iPhones to Apple for repair. The fake devices used spoofed serial numbers or IMEI numbers to Apple retail stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers. According to the evidence, the operation ran from May 2017 to September 2019, wherein they would trick Apple stores into a genuine device replacement. Trial evidence showed that over 5,000 counterfeit iPhones were brought to Apple, causing the loss of more than $3 million. The report also disclosed that both Sun and Xue used various aliases during the scheme and they bought inauthentic iPhones from Hong Kong. The duo could face up to 20 years in prison and are scheduled for sentencing this June 21. Apple Keeps Experiencing iPhone Repair Scam The case of Sun and Xue is not the first iPhone repair scam in the history of Apple. In 2019, 14 people were arrested for importing fake iPhones and iPads from China that were used for the replacement scheme. Apple estimated a total loss of more than $6.1 million for over 10,000 exchanged devices under the scheme. Meanwhile, in 2022, a $1 million iPhone repair scam was busted leading to the arrest of a Chinese man. According to the reports, the Apple devices would often look real and convincing enough for a store employee. In addition, the conspirators always find a way to bypass the database and have their devices validated for warranty. Apple has been experiencing the same case over and over again each year, amounting to millions of dollars in damage. The conspirators also always share the same methods despite being caught. Related Article: Apple to Face $500 Million Fine in EU Under Antitrust Law (Photo : Unsplash/Kelly Sikkema) The IRS warns of certain red flags that might indicate a questionable Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claim, aiming to assist small businesses as a crucial March deadline approaches. The ERC program, part of the two trillion, two hundred billion dollars Cares Act, aimed to encourage employers to retain workers during the pandemic's early stages. However, fraudulent ERC claims have emerged, prompting the IRS to crack down on pop-up businesses, known as "ERC mills," that falsely market the program to ineligible employers. As of mid-September 2023, the IRS had received over 3.6 million ERC claims. However, due to a surge in fraudulent submissions, the IRS halted the processing of new claims, initiating a broader compliance effort in collaboration with the Justice Department to tackle fraud in the ERC program and crack down on promoters encouraging businesses to apply unlawfully. The alert comes as the March 22, 2024, deadline nears for the ERC Voluntary Disclosure Program for businesses that mistakenly filed claims and received payments, allowing them to repay just 80% of the claim. Some promoters encouraged more applicants, often taking a cut of the payout. Businesses should be aware of these warning signs, review their uncertain claims, and act swiftly before the special disclosure and withdrawal programs end to prevent penalties and interest. 1. Claiming ERC for All Available Quarters Some promoters have urged employers to claim the ERC for all available quarters, which might not be accurate. Employers should check if they qualify for each quarter before making a claim. READ ALSO: Common Forms You Need to Know to File Your Taxes 2. Unqualified Government Orders Promoters wrongly claim that employers can get the ERC if any government order was in place, even if their operations were not impacted or they chose to suspend operations voluntarily. This is incorrect, as per the IRS. To legitimately claim the ERC under government order rules: Government orders must have been in effect, and the order must have either fully or partially suspended the employer's operations during the claimed period. The order must be related to the COVID-19 pandemic. It must be an official government order, not just guidance or a recommendation. Some promoters wrongly claim that employers qualify for the ERC based on communications from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). However, according to the IRS, this is generally not true. For more details and examples, check the ERC frequently asked questions about OSHA communications and the 2023 legal memo on OSHA communications. Employers can find useful examples in the Qualifying Government Orders section of IRS.gov. Employers need documentation of the specific government order related to COVID-19 and how it impacted their operations. They should be cautious of promoters who provide generic narratives about government orders. 3. Too Many Employees and Wrong Calculations When claiming the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), employers must be cautious with different dollar limits and credit amounts for the tax period, as laws have changed during 2020 and 2021. Employers must meet specific rules for wages to qualify. The IRS advises employers to review calculations carefully to avoid overclaiming the credit, which can occur if the same credit amount is mistakenly used across multiple tax periods for each employee. 4. Business Declaring Supply Chain Issues The employer must confirm that their supplier's government order meets the requirements, as it is uncommon to qualify for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) based solely on a supply chain disruption. Employers should examine the rules regarding supply chain problems and review examples in the 2023 legal memo for guidance. 5. Business Claiming ERC for Excessive Tax Period Although uncommon, an employer may qualify for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) for an entire calendar quarter if a government order suspends their operations fully or partially. In such cases, the ERC can only be claimed for wages paid during the suspension period, not for the entire quarter. Employers should review their claims to ensure they have not overstated qualifying wages and maintain accurate payroll records to support their claims. 6. Business Not Paying Wages or Didn't Exist During the Eligibility Period The IRS disallows some taxpayers who claim the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) for tax periods when they did not pay wages to employees or when their business did not exist, and now works on other aspects for ERC compliance. 7. Promoter Saying There's Nothing to Lose Businesses should be cautious of ERC promoters encouraging them to claim the credit by saying they "have nothing to lose." Incorrectly claiming the ERC can lead to repayment demands, penalties, interest, audits, and potential expenses for correcting the claim or representing the business in an audit. RELATED ARTICLE: Former IRS Contractor Leaking Trump's Tax Records, Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Unsplash/Tingey Injury Law Firm) The two founders of Tully Rinckey law firm might face a 90-day suspension from practicing law, which alleges to have imposed unfair restrictions on departing lawyers and included anti-competitive provisions in employment agreements, as suggested by a professional conduct board in the District of Columbia on Tuesday. The disciplinary office's specification of charges stated that Matthew Tully and Gregory Rinckey restricted the rights of lawyers to practice after leaving the firm and that the firm's policies hindered clients from choosing to work with lawyers familiar with their cases. The 70-lawyer firm stated that the complaint primarily addressed HR practices that the firm has already changed and for which "nobody has ever before been prosecuted" in D.C. The statement clarified that the charges against Tully or Rinckey do not question the quality of work by the firm's lawyers nor allege any dishonesty or criminal acts. The firm anticipates addressing these charges in a fair and public hearing. District of Columbia Pushing for a Six-Month Suspension D.C. bar officials wanted a six-month suspension, but the Court of Appeals will decide whether to discipline the lawyers after the board proceedings end. The D.C. bar's disciplinary counsel office accused Tully and Rinckey in a 2022 ethics complaint of imposing improper restrictions on some departing employees, such as banning them from contacting clients and collaborating with firm alumni. At certain firm meetings, the report noted threats of suing departing lawyers, with Tully even laughing about the idea of ruining someone's life and bankrupting her. The conduct was oppressive to employees and affected the interests of clients and potential clients of departing lawyer-employees, stated the report from the three-member committee, now up for review by the entire board. READ ALSO: Tony Luke's Owners Sentenced for Tax Evasion Scheme After Regulators Revealed "Off the Books" Transactions Tully's and Rickey's Response Tully and Rinckey stated the report had "factual and legal errors'' and promised to challenge its conclusions. They denied any wrongdoing and emphasized that none of their clients in New York, its other U.S. offices, or overseas were harmed during their 20 years of operation. The charges resulted from a rigorous five-year investigation, docketed as 2017-D030, during which Tully and Rinckey fully cooperated. They provided thousands of documents from their law firm, responded to multiple written inquiries from the Disciplinary Counsel, willingly participated in interviews with the Disciplinary Counsel, and encouraged current and former employees and vendors of the firm to cooperate with the investigation. They called the investigation "unprecedented," citing it involved minor ethical violations related to a less-known rule, which they claimed is applied differently in other states. Both Tully and Rinckey have no prior disciplinary record. Their law firm comprises 70 lawyers and operates in various cities, including Washington, D.C., and Albany, New York. "Restrictions on Right to Practice" The committee report noted that this ethics case is the first in D.C. to apply a rule concerning "Restrictions on Right to Practice" for lawyers, which aims to ensure clients have the widest range of options when choosing legal representation. The case is titled "In the Matter of Matthew B. Tully and Gregory T. Rinckey" and has reference number No. 22-BD-025 with the District of Columbia Board on Professional Responsibility. RELATED ARTICLE: Former IRS Contractor Leaking Trump's Tax Records, Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Unsplash/Sydney Sims) When people think of burnout, they often focus on feeling helpless and cynical, but burnout can also cause physical symptoms. In a 2021 survey of 1,500 U.S. workers, over half reported feeling burned out due to job demands. What is Burnout? According to Dr. Lotte Dyrbye from the Mayo Clinic, burnout is not a medical condition but a result of long-term stress. The World Health Organization defines burnout as exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness due to workplace stress, where you may struggle to meet deadlines, feel frustrated, and become irritable with coworkers, explained Jeanette M. Bennett, a researcher from the University of North Carolina. How to Recognize Stress in Our Body? According to Dr. Bennett, stress can take a toll on the body, leading to physical symptoms that trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. These hormones can be helpful in the short term by providing energy to tackle challenges but tend to be harmful to the body over time. Here's how you can recognize burnout in your body: Insomnia Insomnia is a common symptom of burnout, says Dr. Dyrbye. During the pandemic's peak, 55% of frontline healthcare workers with burnout experienced difficulty falling asleep, and 40% had nightmares. Chronic stress disrupts the complex system regulating sleep, creating a harmful cycle, and if you are having trouble sleeping, lack of sleep can worsen the situation. Physical Exhaustion Physical exhaustion is another common sign. Dr. Gold experienced fatigue as a key symptom of burnout, noticing herself needing to sleep every day after work, which she later recognized as a sign of burnout. Changes in Eating Habits Changes in eating habits can also indicate burnout. Stress hormones can reduce hunger during times of stress and increase it when stress levels decrease. Headaches and Stomachaches Burnout can lead to headaches and stomachaches, according to Dr. Gold. In a study of individuals with exhaustion disorder, 67% reported experiencing symptoms like nausea, gas, or indigestion, while 65% had headaches. Burnout coexists with depression or anxiety, both producing physical symptoms. Depression causes muscle aches, stomachaches, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite, while anxiety causes headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. READ ALSO: Unveiling the Workplace Burnout: "It's Not Me, It's You" -Addressing the Root Causes How Can a Company's Employee Well-Being Strategy Address this Trend? Employers are now prioritizing emotional well-being. According to Aon's 2022-2023 Global Wellbeing Survey, mental health emerged as the most commonly cited concern among employees, mentioned by 41% of respondents in their top five issues. While this reflects the growing focus on mental health in recent years, burnout and languishing were the second most mentioned challenges, cited by 34% of respondents. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to reducing microstress, here are some proven strategies that can be effective: Utilize workplace assessments already in place. Engagement surveys, health risk assessments covering emotional health, and focus groups can help leaders pinpoint the factors behind micro stress and burnout. Companies can start tackling the underlying issues by examining the frequency, intensity, and duration of these factors. Take proactive steps based on the assessment results. Involve key stakeholders from various departments to tackle areas needing improvement. A proactive approach can promote a healthier and more supportive workplace culture. Give managers the authority to uphold team culture in line with company values, as they play a crucial role in promoting and enforcing well-being policies and practices. Take a data-driven approach to assess work design. This enables senior leaders to track progress and promptly address emerging issues using a structured process. RELATED ARTICLE: Ultimate Guide on How to Keep Working When You Already Feel Like Quitting 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. By Lee Gyu-lee Director Denis Villeneuve, alongside actors Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, and Stellan Skarsgard, kicked off the promotional tour for the upcoming action film "Dune: Part Two" with a press conference in Seoul on Wednesday. During the event, actors expressed their gratitude and shared insights into their experiences of being part of the fictional universe originating from Frank Herberts iconic novel. I didn't necessarily grow up with the books but I feel like I've been introduced to them through director Denis Villeneuve and had the privilege of getting to know the material through him. And knowing that his love and care for the books, how that has translated into everything you've seen and are going to see is so special, Zendaya said at Conrad Seoul in Yeouido, Seoul. When you get to unlock this whole world, then you see it everywhere. I didn't realize my whole life I was living in Dune references I just didn't know it. And that's been really, really special for me is seeing how impactful it's been (I) just feel a tremendous honor but also responsibility because you want people to feel like you're honoring something that they've held so dearly to them for so long as well. Based on the 1965 novel of the same name, the blockbuster action film series follows the journey of Paul Atreides (played by Timothee Chalamet), the heir of House Atreides, to the planet Arrakis. Here, chaos ensues as various factions vie for control of melange, a precious resource. "Part Two," set to premiere in Korea on Feb. 28, will pick up on the story of Paul and his mother settling into the Fremen, a sub-culture of humans descended from the Zensunni Wanderers. He unites with Chani (Zendaya) and seeks revenge against those who destroyed his family, facing choices between his life and the fate of the universe. Villeneuve described the film as a cautionary tale following the story of a young man. I tried to be as faithful as possible to Frank Herberts initial desires; that he wanted to make a book about a warning, about charismatic figures and a cautionary tale, he said. Dune is a story of a young man trying to find his path; if he will be able to get rid of his genetic heritage and find through his education and finally find freedom. In the second installment, we see him struggling with those big questions. Chalamet, who has already captured the hearts of Korean audiences earlier this year with "Wonka," expressed his hope that Korean moviegoers would embrace his transition from the enchanting chocolatier to a hero entangled in complex dilemmas. The 28-year-old actor also provided a glimpse of the highly anticipated film, hinting that his character is not simply a heroic protagonist, but rather possesses deeper layers and complexities. Frank Herbert was perhaps dismayed that Paul was seen as a hero when people first read the book. He felt it was more complicated than that. While at times, he's a moral center of the story, he said. He nonetheless is caught between wanting to be confirmed in how he sees himself with Chani but ultimately a bigger destiny; one that's quite dark, quite violent and also about death and destruction. Chalamet noted that he felt a profound connection with his character as he delved into studying and portraying Paul's journey and dilemmas. For me, I feel a certain closeness and gratitude for this role as Paul and the mental discipline that it requires; all sorts of ideas and things that when I read the book. I was close to being more discovered through my exploration of Paul in this world, he said. The director and cast members will hold a red carpet event, followed by a Q&A session to meet the fans, Thursday. By Anna J. Park Toss Bank has nominated Rhee Eun-mi, former CFO of DGB Daegu Bank, as the sole candidate for its next CEO for a two-year term, the internet-only bank said Wednesday. If the appointment is finalized with approval from the board of directors at the bank's regular shareholders' meeting on March 28, Rhee will become the first female CEO in the internet-only banking sector, as well as the fourth-ever female bank CEO in Korea. The digital bank said that its executive candidate nomination committee had unanimously recommended her earlier this week as the sole candidate for the CEO position, after holding a series of meetings to identify and validate candidates who can contribute to Toss Bank's continual growth, innovation and stability. "Rhee's extensive expertise and experience encompassing both domestic and international domains that resulted in organizational management skills and insight qualify her as the optimal leader for Toss Bank," the nomination recommendation committee said. The committee highly evaluated Rhee's ample experience as a bank CFO for over a decade, which has given her exceptional risk management capabilities. The committee said her serving as the CFO as well as the chief of management planning at DGB Daegu Bank had contributed significantly to the regional bank's successful transition to a national commercial bank. The internet-only bank also praised her global perspectives and cross-border management capabilities built through her work experience as the CFO of HSBC in Hong Kong, overseeing 16 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. She also worked as the deputy head at HSBC's Seoul branch, and CFO at Deutsche Bank's Seoul operation. Born in 1973, Rhee studied computer science at Sogang University. Afterward, she earned MBA degrees from Columbia University, London Business School and the University of Hong Kong. She holds licenses as a Certified Public Accountant in the U.S., Chartered Financial Analyst and Financial Risk Manager. By Yoon Ja-young Lee Myong-hwal, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute of Finance, was recommended as a new outside director for KB Financial Group, the company said Wednesday. The group's outside director candidate nomination committee said it recommended Lee and three incumbent independent directors Kwon Seon-joo, Oh Gyu-taeg and Choi Jae-hong as candidates. Following approval at the regular shareholders' meeting scheduled for March 22, Lee will start his two-year term while the other three will serve for one more year. After building up a career at the Bank of Korea, Lee joined the Korea Institute of Finance, where he has led macroeconomic and international finance research and corporate debt research. He has also been the institute's vice president. The committee noted that Lee is a macroeconomics expert, possessing extensive knowledge, insight and expertise in international finance markets. He has served as outside director at various financial institutions and provided advisory services at organizations like the Financial Services Commission and the Bank of Korea, contributing to risk management and suggesting new directions for developing the financial industry. The committee, solely consisting of outside members, recommends candidates through an independent review process. KB Financial Group said its outside director recommendation process aligns with the "best practices" on corporate governance of financial holding companies and banks, which the Financial Supervisory Service recently announced. KB Financial Group's board of directors includes three external directors who are women, promoting gender diversity and further expansion in terms of expertise, professions and age. "As uncertainty in the financial market persists, Lee, who is both a financial and economic expert with global expertise, will play a significant role on the board of directors alongside the existing members, contributing to diversity and professionalism," a committee member said. Chinas homegrown AG600M amphibious aircraft passes test in extreme coldness, proving reliability in harsh conditions Global Times) 11:10, February 21, 2024 Kunlong AG600M large amphibious aircraft Photo: AVIC China's domestically developed AG600M aircraft, a firefighting variant of the AG600 large amphibious aircraft family, has reportedly passed test under extreme cold weather, according to the aircraft developer Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). Chinese experts hailed the milestone verified the model's high reliability in harsh weather conditions, affirming its potential for a wide range of applications in the future. On Tuesday, two AG600M large amphibious airplanes completed the cold-weather flight test at an airport in Hailar of Hulunbuir in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, said AVIC, the country's leading aircraft manufacturer. The flight test lasted around two weeks in a cold environment with temperature ranging from -20 C to - 40 C, which was a challenging setting to assess the aircraft's performance under low temperatures, frost and freezing conditions. Wei Dongxu, a military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the flight test marks a significant milestone in China's aerospace technology. These tests aimed to assess the aircraft's adaptability to complex environments, particularly in regions prone to icing conditions, Wei noted. The successful deployment of the AG600M in such harsh conditions underscores its robustness and reliability, affirming its potential for a wide range of applications in the future, he said. The expert also said that, with the successful test, the AVIC continues to demonstrate its prowess in manufacturing specialized aircraft, with the AG600M serving as a testament to the quality and resilience of Chinese engineering. According to the AVIC, the recent flight tests were conducted to verify the functions and performance of the AG600M aircraft's major systems, including power, fuel, flight control and avionics, in cold environments. Additionally, the tests have evaluated the aircraft's maintainability in low temperatures. The two AG600M airplanes undertook ferry flights, traveling approximately 2,000 kilometers in six hours from Northwest China's Shaanxi Province to Hailar Airport in late January. This test marked the longest ferry flight mission completed by the aircraft and presented them with the most challenging route environment to date. AVIC said that cold-weather flight tests are crucial for obtaining airworthiness certification and gaining insights into the future operation and maintenance of the AG600M aircraft. As the aircraft proves its mettle even in the most challenging environment, it opens up new avenues for China's aerospace sector, promising broader market opportunities on both domestic and international fronts, Chinese observers said. The AG600M firefighting aircraft has entered the key phase of airworthiness compliance verification, and it is set to obtain the type certificate before the end of 2024, the developer added. China's independently developed AG600 aircraft family is being developed as vital advanced aeronautical equipment to strengthen the country's emergency-rescue capabilities. Codenamed Kunlong, or "water dragon" in Chinese, the AG600 aircraft family is being developed to serve various emergency rescue missions. It can be used in forest firefighting, maritime search and rescue, and other critical emergency rescue missions. The AG600 series amphibious aircraft features a unique configuration consisting of an integrated aircraft-shaped upper body and ship-bottom-shaped lower body. As a member of the AG600 family, the AG600M is specifically designed to combat forest fires. Its maximum take-off weight is 60 tons, with a water-carrying capacity of up to 12 tons and flight range of up to 4,500 kilometers. It can conduct low-altitude flying at low speed, enabling it to drop water accurately on fire sites, Global Times learned from the AVIC previously. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Korea and the European Union have begun the second round of talks on a bilateral digital trade agreement in an effort to seek broader partnership in the digital domain, Seoul's industry ministry said Wednesday. The negotiation kicked off in Seoul on Tuesday for a three-day run, following the initial round of talks in December last year, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. During the latest round of talks, the two sides will discuss details about online trade regulations and ways of cooperating on cyber security, the protection of personal information and data transfers, among other issues, it added. In October last year, the two sides agreed to launch negotiations on a digital trade pact that "will provide legal certainty for businesses and consumers engaged in digital trade, enhance their protection in digital transactions, and foster an open, free and fair online environment," their statement read. (Yonhap) By Lee Yeon-woo Foreign investors will be able to trade Korea-listed stocks and bonds without navigating complex foreign exchange (FX) procedures and incurring additional costs. This initiative aims to enhance convenience for foreign investors as part of efforts to improve their access to the Korean onshore capital markets, the Bank of Korea (BOK) said on Wednesday. The BOK, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Financial Services Commission, and the Financial Supervisory Service have collaboratively introduced measures aimed at improving the efficiency and stability of securities settlements and foreign exchange (FX) trading for offshore investors. These measures were developed based on feedback collected through discussions with foreign investors, including insights gathered during a recent investor relations session in London hosted by First Vice Finance Minister Kim Byoung-hwan. First, offshore investors will be permitted to utilize Korean won overdrafts to alleviate the potential burden of settlement failures. Traditionally, foreign investors have relied solely on local custodian banks for FX transactions, primarily due to complications arising from time differences and intricate interbank transfer procedures. However, under the new framework, foreign investors will have the freedom to select their preferred FX trading institution without concerns about settlement failures. They will have the option to borrow funds for securities settlements, providing reassurances in case any issues arise during the process. In addition, the government plans to enable investors to purchase securities and settle payments using International Central Securities Depository (ICSD) cash and custody accounts, eliminating the need to open personal accounts. An ICSD is a specialized financial institution that plays a crucial role in facilitating the settlement of cross-border securities transactions. Present FX regulations impose stringent restrictions on the utilization of Korean won obtained through an ICSD, posing an inconvenience for foreign investors who must exchange their Korean won holdings twice. This adjustment seeks to streamline the process and alleviate this burden for investors. Last but not least, the system will undergo updates to streamline the process for foreign investors utilizing an omnibus account under the Capital Markets Act. This enhancement will allow them to exchange currencies conveniently, eliminating the need to appoint a separate dedicated representative or open individual cash accounts for each investment. The Korean government also vowed to strengthen communication with offshore investors to clear uncertainties. "Foreign exchange and financial authorities will pursue the revision of foreign exchange transactions regulations during the first quarter to address the aforementioned issues," the BOK stated. By Lee Yeon-woo Both the ruling and opposition parties are considering virtual assets as a strategy to appeal to young voters ahead of the April 10 general elections. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) took the initiative by promising to permit investments in and trading of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The DPK unveiled a series of policies concerning virtual assets, Wednesday, centered around the theme of "Sound Market, Safe Investment, and Various Business Opportunities." These policies include allowing investments in spot Bitcoin ETFs listed on international stock markets and creating opportunities for domestic asset management firms to develop and list their own Bitcoin ETF products on the exchange. The DPK said incorporating products linked to virtual assets into the regulatory framework aligns with global trends. "The digital asset ecosystem is the essential infrastructure for realizing a new digital economy," Rep. Lee Kai-ho, who leads the DPK's policy planning committee, said at the National Assembly. "At this critical juncture, it's important to address regulatory gaps to align with global trends and to lay the groundwork for a sustainable ecosystem." In January, financial authorities banned the purchase and brokerage of Bitcoin ETFs in Korea, determining that they conflict with the current Capital Markets Act. With Bitcoin ETFs recording a total transaction volume of 6 trillion won ($4.4 billion) in the U.S. stock market on their first day alone, domestic retail investors have shown huge disappointment. For the approval, the DPK intends to first consult with the financial authorities. Should the resistance from regulatory bodies persist, they aim to revise the Capital Markets Act, thereby allowing the trading of Bitcoin ETFs. In addition to these measures, the DPK's policy package addressed several crucial issues advocated by market insiders, such as facilitating the involvement of institutional investors in the virtual asset market. Moreover, the investment deduction cap for virtual assets is slated to rise to 50 million won from the current 2.5 million won. The party's move is seen as an attempt to attract support from voters in their 20s to 40s, a group known for its significant involvement with virtual assets. The ruling People Power Party (PPP), in cooperation with financial authorities, is also adopting a positive stance on improving regulations related to virtual assets. The PPP is reportedly considering policies similar to those of the DPK, including the approval of Bitcoin ETFs and the participation of institutional investors. It intends to announce the details of its pledges within this week. "Most of the proposed bills focus on investments. Yet the truth is only a small segment of the population will be affected by the policies under consideration when investing in virtual assets," said Hong Ki-hoon, a professor at Hongik University's College of Business. "There is also a need to examine policies that can protect the public from the threats posed by blockchain-based virtual assets and their technologies." Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is planning to visit Korea at the end of this month in what would be his first visit to the country in more than 10 years, officials said Wednesday. The details of his itinerary are not yet known, but the executive chairman of Meta Platforms, Facebook's parent company, could meet with Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, as he did during his previous trip to Korea in June 2013. Meta has also requested a meeting between Zuckerberg and President Yoon Suk Yeol, and the presidential office is "positively considering" it, a presidential official told Yonhap News Agency. (Yonhap) Govt to set up memorial to honor those who died trying to escape from North Korea By Jung Min-ho Seoul seeks to designate July 14 as a national day in honor of North Korean refugees. This initiative is part of broader efforts to raise awareness of human rights issues in North Korea. Speaking at a meeting of the Presidential Committee of National Cohesion on Wednesday, Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho said the day would be celebrated as a symbolic one for the nations unity and in hopes for peaceful unification with the North. As part of the project for North Korean freedom-seekers, the ministry also plans to set up a memorial to honor those who died trying to escape the regime, Kim added. Many of the North Korean escapees we had meetings with for this project suggested the need to commemorate the victims who didnt make it, saying they were just lucky to survive, an official told reporters the previous day. If everything goes as scheduled, the ministry will finish the administrative work necessary to designate the national day in the coming months and hold public events for its inaugural celebration this summer. It plans to do so promptly through an executive order first before seeking the National Assemblys approval, which could take a long time, officials said. The announcement follows President Yoon Suk Yeol's directive about a month ago to establish a national day aimed at assisting North Korean escapees adapt to their new environment. This directive was made during a Cabinet meeting on Jan. 16. Additionally, the previous month, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un declared that he would cease pursuing peaceful unification with South Korea. Ministry officials said one of the goals of the project is to counter Kim's message by promoting that the Korean Peninsula should be united peacefully one day for the sake of all Koreans. One of the key considerations regarding the project was determining the most appropriate day to symbolize its significance. Suggestions included Feb. 5, representing the 25 million people living in the North, and Feb. 1, symbolizing the unification of two distinct entities into a single country, among others. Eventually, July 14 was selected as it was the day South Koreas first law designed to protect and support North Korean escapees came into force in 1997. Officials said they came to that conclusion after speaking with representatives of many North Korean defector groups. The official English name for the day has not been determined yet. Officials said they would consult with other ministries and rights groups on the matter before coming up with one. A foreign ministry official met with Julie Turner, the U.S. special representative for North Korean human rights, on Wednesday and discussed joint efforts to promote the human rights situation in the reclusive state, the ministry said. The meeting took place between Turner and Chun Young-hee, director general for the Korean Peninsula peace regime, as the U.S. envoy was visiting Seoul this week to attend an event marking the 10th anniversary of the release of a landmark U.N. report on North Korea's human rights abuses. At the talks, Chun called for the need to convey the reality about the outside world to the North Korean people as much as promoting the awareness of the North's human rights situations to the international community, the ministry said. Noting that a U.N. periodic review on North Korea's human rights is scheduled for November this year, Turner suggested South Korea and the U.S. continue to work together on related issues, according to the ministry's release. They agreed to continue cooperation to protect and support North Korean defectors and to resolve the issues of abductees, detainees and prisoners of war. They also agreed to push for holding the bilateral consultative meeting on North Korean human rights in the first half of this year. (Yonhap) 70% of trainee doctors submit resignations; 44% of medical students apply for leaves of absence in protest By Jun Ji-hye The government and doctors are in a fierce standoff over two pivotal questions: whether the country is experiencing a shortage of doctors, and whether the government's decision to increase the annual enrollment quota at medical schools by 2,000 slots next year is justified. Doctors groups dispute the governments assessment that the country will face a shortage of approximately 15,000 doctors by 2035. They argue that declining birthrates and readily available access to medical services contradict that prediction. The heads of medical schools suggest 350 as the more appropriate number of new slots, if the quota must be raised, saying that adding 2,000 slots at once is excessive and could adversely affect the quality of education and training. The government countered these assertions, emphasizing that the decision to raise the medical school admissions quota by 2,000 is deemed a minimal increase. Moreover, it stated that this decision is "irreversible" and essential to address shortages of doctors while enhancing public access to medical services. While both sides are heading for a collision course and showing no signs of backing down, more than 70 percent of trainee doctors have submitted their resignations to protest the governments policy. These mass resignations have led to the cancellations of planned surgeries and other significant inconveniences for patients. President Yoon Suk Yeol made it clear that the plan to increase the annual enrollment quota by 2,000 from the current 3,058 meets only the minimum requirement and still falls far short of the required number. Previous governments have failed to increase the quota by even one, Yoon said during a Cabinet meeting. We all know that the collapse of essential treatment fields in underserved areas cannot be resolved through the medical school quota hike alone. But it is obvious that the quota hike is a prerequisite for preventing such a collapse. The total admissions quota of the 40 medical schools in Korea has remained unchanged at 3,058 since 2006. When announcing the decision for the quota hike on Feb. 6, the Ministry of Health and Welfare said the country is expected to need 15,000 more doctors by 2035 due to growing demand for health care spurred by an aging population. The ministry said that 2,000 slots will be added to the annual enrollment quota next year and last at least until 2029. Through those steps, the ministry believes, the country will have 10,000 more doctors by 2035. Regarding concerns that the quota expansion would compromise the quality of medical education and training, Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo said that the number of students at Seoul National University's college of medicine, which was 260 in 1980, has almost halved to 135 at present. Similarly, the number at Pusan National Universitys School of Medicine, which was 208 in 1980, now stands at 125. On the other hand, the number of professors has increased. Educational conditions have improved a lot compared to the past," Park said. But the Korean Medical Association (KMA), the nations largest coalition of doctors, and other related groups disagree. They said the government should consider that the population decline is being caused by low birthrates and that people now have easier access to local clinics. The number of newborns is falling. Even if the government maintains the current medical school enrollment quota, the relative number of doctors will increase, said Lee Dong-wook, who heads the KMAs Gyeonggi Province branch. Moreover, Koreans utilize medical services at a rate 2.5 times higher than the OECD average, indicating an existing oversupply of medical services in the country. A pediatrician, who runs a local clinic in Seouls Dongjak District, emphasized that a more pressing priority for addressing the deepening regional disparities in medical services is to allocate doctors and patients more effectively. Additionally, improving the working environment for physicians operating under challenging conditions is crucial. I think raising the medical school quota is not an urgent priority, he said on condition of anonymity. The Korean Association of Medical Colleges (KAMC), representing deans of medical schools nationwide, has urged the government to reconsider its decision. They argue that accommodating an additional 2,000 slots in 40 medical schools within a short timeframe is unfeasible, especially given the current educational conditions. During a press conference, Monday, the association said it would be more appropriate to add 350 slots to the annual enrollment quota, instead of the full 2,000. The association, however, did not offer any explanation or justification for why 350 is a more appropriate number. Power-to-power confrontation While the government and doctors have traded barbs, concerns over public health have heightened, with a total of 8,816 trainee doctors, or 71.2 percent of all such doctors, having submitted their resignations in protest as of Tuesday. Of them, 7,813, or 63.1 percent, have left their worksites. Hospitals affected the most include the so-called big five in Seoul Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital and Seoul St. Marys Hospital that play a key role in providing medical care for critical patients. The government has ordered 6,112 trainee doctors to return to work, the second vice health minister told reporters during a media briefing, Wednesday. Despite the governments hardline stance, including a threat to revoke the medical licenses of those who participate in the walkout, trainee doctors have shown no signs of backing down. In a statement, the Korean Intern Resident Association, an association of interns and resident doctors, demanded the government go back to square one and withdraw the plan to increase the medical school enrollment quota. Medical students have also joined the collective action. According to the Ministry of Education, 7,620 students at 27 medical schools have applied for leaves of absence as of 6 p.m. Tuesday. This accounts for about 43.8 percent of the total number of medical students nationwide. Those who did not apply for a leave of absence are moving to boycott classes, according to the education ministry. By Lee Hyo-jin Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that South Korea should take its concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent luxury car gift to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to the U.N. Security Council (UNSC), in a sarcastic response to Seoul's remarks that labeled the gift as a violation of U.N. sanctions. "If Seoul has concerns about the 'adherence to U.N. sanctions' regarding North Korea, then it should address it directly at the U.N. Security Council Sanctions Committee, rather than rushing to the microphones," Moscow's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying in a statement from the Russian Embassy in Seoul, Wednesday. Zakharova was referring to remarks made by South Korean foreign ministry spokesperson Lim Soo-suk during a regular briefing the previous day. In response to a query about Putin's gifting of a car to the North Korean leader, Lim stated, "All U.N. member states have the obligation to fully comply with U.N. sanctions resolutions against North Korea," acknowledging that the shipment violates a U.N. resolution that prohibits the supply of luxury items to North Korea. The Russian president recently gifted the North Korean leader with a Russian-made Aurus Senat limousine, as confirmed by both countries on Tuesday, in the latest demonstration of the burgeoning ties between the two neighbors. According to Russia's Tass agency, the vehicle is the version that Putin is often seen to be chauffeured around in. During their summit last September at the Vostochny Space Center in Russia, Putin gave Kim a closer look at the car and offered him the opportunity to take a seat in the vehicle. In her statement, Zakharova also stated that international sanctions against Russia as causing damage to public access to food, medicine and vaccines for the Russian populace. "By the way, let's discuss with the entire committee about the 12,000 or so illegal sanctions against Russia and the West's sanction wars that undermine the nature of international law," she said. The spokeswoman said it would be interesting to know what pressure Washington is exerting on Seoul in order to hinder its legitimacy in conducting trade with other countries. Moscow's strained response to Seoul comes amid a deterioration in bilateral relations. South Korea has accused Russia of engaging in arms trade with North Korea, an allegation that Russia has denied, while Moscow has repeatedly expressed discontent regarding Seoul's potential weapons support to Ukraine. By Jon Dunbar A memorial standing near the bottom of the sloped alley in central Seoul's Itaewon has started showing signs of wear or possibly vandalism, less than three months after its installation last year. A bilingual message inscribed on the structure, which commemorates the tragic crowd disaster that claimed 159 lives on Oct. 29, 2022, is barely readable anymore as the letters have started to disappear. The memorial pedestal, standing about a meter tall, has a mirrored top surface with white letters displaying the fading commemorative message. The surface is already showing scratches, caused likely by either oblivious passersby or deliberately. It was one of many structures placed there last October in time for the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, with installation costs covered by the district office. "It is utterly disgusting that this cheap piece of crap is the plinth at the entrance to the alley where so many innocent young people died," said a British national who first noticed the damage on Jan. 11. The Yongsan District Office, which installed the memorial in cooperation with a civic group representing the bereaved families, has discussed the memorial's poor condition at meetings, but no action has been taken yet. "We are very cautious about the situation and won't make any decisions without involving the family members," a district official said. The official claimed that the family members have been difficult to contact due to their involvement in the ongoing rally, and representatives of the members who were contacted were also unwilling to make a decision on their own. "Restoration of the structure would require its full removal from the site for five to seven days ... this is just what would be needed to restore it to its original condition," the official said. But the district office believes the memorial will require fundamental changes, such as structural and material improvements, to prevent the damage from reappearing after another couple of months. The official said it is difficult to determine whether the damage was deliberate, but shared a personal opinion suggesting suspicion, particularly noting that some of the words appear to have been deliberately erased. A representative of the civic group disagreed with the notion that the damage could have been an act of vandalism. "The installation is situated in an area where local residents and businesses leave their trash for collection," she said, suggesting that the damage may be a natural consequence of its location and exposure over time. The representative confirmed that the civic group has been discussing the issue with the district office and expressed hope that the memorial will be repaired promptly. The district official added that both sides have agreed to discuss the condition of the memorial next month. But for some members of the local community, the restoration of the memorial is already taking too long, and leaving it in that state fails to show proper respect. "It needs to be replaced with something more dignified and fitting to mark that disastrous, horrible night," the British national said. Korea Times intern Ryu Su-jin contributed to this article. The United States has sounded China out about the possibility of a trilateral project to excavate and recover the remains of troops killed during the 1950-53 Korean War, a senior U.S. official said Tuesday, raising hopes for three-way humanitarian cooperation despite hardening Sino-U.S. rivalry. Speaking in a virtual press meeting, Kelly McKeague, the director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), said that he asked a visiting senior Chinese official about the matter last month, as Washington has explored areas of bilateral cooperation under an effort to "de-risk" its fraught ties with Beijing. POW and MIA stand for prisoners of war and missing in action, respectively. "When I met with the PRC senior official when they visited the Pentagon in January, I asked about the fact ... would the PLA be interested in a trilateral cooperation with MAKRI (and) with DPAA?" he said. PRC and PLA stand for China's official name and its military, the People's Republic of China and the People's Liberation Army. MAKRI is the acronym of South Korea's excavation agency, the Ministry of National Defense Agency for KIA (killed in action) Recovery and Identification. "He said we would consider it. So again, it's something in its nascent stage," the director added, stressing that the humanitarian issue should not be subject to "geopolitical tensions or the political climate." McKeague pointed out that as Washington and Beijing have reestablished bilateral cooperation, the U.S. believes there might be "some trilateral opportunities." He was referring to recent improvement in Sino-U.S. relations that emerged after U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a November summit in California, where they agreed to resume military communications that were suspended after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August in 2022. Shortly after the summit, the DPAA had a virtual dialogue with the Chinese military on recovery cooperation that led to the DPAA's field survey in China in search of three missing Americans from World War II a resumption of such engagement after pandemic-driven disruptions and political tensions, according to McKeague. "President Xi in his meeting with President Biden (in California) actually raised this issue as a means to again establish communications, rapport and more importantly people-to-people ties," he said. As cooperation with China becomes sustainable, the U.S. may ask China over the resumption of recovery cooperation with the North, the director said. Touching on North Korea, the director expressed a "strong" desire to reengage with the reclusive regime on the recovery of troop remains, while highlighting what he termed the "success" of a joint excavation between the U.S. and the North from 1996-2005. "We have a strong desire simply because there are 5,300 Americans missing inside North Korea. They've been there as you know over 70 years, and their families many of whom are aging, many of whom are daughters and sons await answers," he said. "There is a strong desire on the part of the United States to resume cooperation on this humanitarian mission." Since the last project that ended in 2005, there have been two unilateral turnovers of American troop remains to the U.S. one aided by former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson in 2007 and the other by former President Donald Trump through his summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore in 2018. But U.S. excavation staff have never been able to return to the North for onsite work since 2005, the official said. In 2018, the U.S. had two in-person meetings with the North's Korean People's Army at the inter-Korean truce village of Panmunjom, where the U.S. made a proposal for two teams to operate in the North four times a year in a joint excavation project to proceed in Unsan, North Pyongan Province and in Jangjin, South Hamgyong Province. "There was no acceptance of that proposal," he recalled. "In September of 2018, we exchanged letters, we had phone calls and then the last communication was in March of 2019." The DPAA chief pointed out that his agency sees the possibility of an opening to engage with North Korea through cooperation with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). DPAA has worked with 115 private partners, including NGOs, universities and other institutions. He also highlighted that right before COVID-19, the State Department awarded Gov. Richardson's foundation access to the North for its pursuit of a humanitarian project in the North despite biting sanctions against Pyongyang. "We believe that given the humanitarian aspect, this NGO, if allowed by DPRK, would not meet with any resistance from the Department of State or trip any sanctions or restrictions that are currently in place," he said. DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Casting Seoul's MAKRI as his agency's "most accomplished, professional and robust" partner among its 45 partners across the world, McKeague said that the South Korean agency and DPAA will co-host the "Scientific Summit" for the first time in Seoul from June 10-14. The forum is a gathering of scientists in the archeological and anthropological field from 15 nations in the Indo-Pacific region. In his closing remarks, he underscored the humanitarian nature of the excavation work, which he said when successful, would provide "great closure" to bereaved families after decades of uncertainty. "It is one that should not be subject to the whims of politics. It should not be one subject to geopolitical tensions," he said. (Yonhap) Level-IV emergency response to low temperatures activated in East, Central China Global Times) 13:10, February 21, 2024 China's Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level-IV emergency response following rain, snow and freezing conditions in East China's Anhui Province and Central China's Henan and Hubei provinces on Tuesday, as there is a high risk of serious problems during the Spring Festival travel peak, the ministry said on Tuesday. The authorities have dispatched working groups to the affected regions to guide relevant work on risk prevention and reduction. The Central Meteorological Observatory continued to issue a yellow alert for heavy snow in some regions of the country at 6 pm on Tuesday. It predicted that from Tuesday night to Wednesday, there will be heavy to blizzard snow in some areas of East China's Shandong, Anhui and Jiangsu provinces, as well as Hubei Province, and some other regions. There will be heavy blizzard snow in northwestern and southern parts of Shandong and southern Henan, with the snow reaching 20 to 25 millimeters, according to the meteorological authority. Due to recent severe weather conditions such as rain, snow, and freezing rain, some schools have decided to delay the return to campus for the sake of student safety. In Yichang, Hubei Province, the schools (excluding high schools that have already started) postponed the start of classes to February 26 due to the impact of the weather, said the local education authorities. Some other cities such as Jingzhou and Suizhou in Hubei Province have also delayed the start of school due to the weather. Multiple universities in Wuhan also delayed the start of the spring semester due to the extreme weather, with some schools postponing the return date to March 2, Wuhan authorities said on Tuesday. Some scenic spots in Wuhan have also been temporarily closed, and performances and exhibitions have been canceled, according to media reports. Some train services have been cancelled as well. In Wuhan, stations have continued to improve emergency plans for dealing with icy and snowy weather. The waiting rooms provide hot water all day and the temperatures in carriages will be kept at above 18 C. The waiting rooms at the three major railway stations in Wuhan are open 24 hours a day, Wuhan railway authorities said on Tuesday. The Traffic Management Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security issued a notice on Tuesday reminding travelers returning home after Spring Festival to try to avoid periods and areas affected by severe weather such as rain, snow, ice, fog, and dust storms, in order to avoid unnecessary delays. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) By Jung Da-hyun Local governments have set their sights on establishing international schools as a strategy to counter the challenges caused by low birthrates in the nation as people are being drawn to bigger metropolitan areas, such as Seoul and Gyeonggi Province. North Jeolla Province recently unveiled its plan to create an international school with a focus on K-pop, with both Korean and foreign students eligible to enroll. This initiative was unveiled following the North Jeolla province's transition from a province to a special self-governing state last month. The province gained the status of a special self-governing province in January and the provincial office rebranded it as Jeonbuk State in English. According to a local government official, the school will be the first foreign education institution to cater to both domestic and international students. While the current Elementary and Secondary Education Act restricts admissions to international schools to foreign nationals or domestic students who have lived abroad for more than three years, the state office has enacted an ordinance allowing domestic students with no overseas experience to enroll. The potential site for the international school will be located in an area called Saemangeum, where the 25th World Scout Jamboree took place last August. The plan is to transform Saemangeum into a global site through K-pop and international education. In addition to the K-pop school, Jeonbuk State has formalized plans for an international taekwondo high school. Muju County, renowned for its taekwondo heritage, plans to convert Mupung High School into a specialized taekwondo institution, which is set to open in 2026 with 120 students, including 20 international students. Similarly, the Busan Metropolitan City Office of Education is also planning to establish an international high school focused on K-pop, aiming to launch in March 2028. The city government plans to recruit students nationwide, including those from international backgrounds. Furthermore, Busan is set to host a branch of the Royal Russell School, sponsored by the British royal family. This institution will offer comprehensive courses starting from elementary school to high school. The school is slated to be established in Gangseo District, according to the city government. Despite these initiatives, some remain skeptical about the practical impact of attracting international schools in mitigating local population decline. Professor Seol Dong-hoon from the Department of Sociology at Jeonbuk National University argues that foreign students attending international schools are unlikely to settle in rural areas. "Since international schools cater to elementary, middle and high school students, their potential contribution to regional development is unlikely to be notably significant," he said. International students attending universities are relatively active in the region, contributing through activities such as paying rent and making local purchases. "Unlike university students, young international students enrolled in international schools tend to utilize on-campus facilities and predominantly reside in dormitories," Seol said. A civic group filed a complaint Wednesday against trainee doctors, who have collectively resigned over the planned hike in medical school enrollment quotas, and leaders of a doctors' association, asking police to investigate them for violating the medical and other laws. The group, which calls itself the People's Livelihood Countermeasures Committee, said it submitted the complaint to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency in the morning. The police agency was asked to investigate Kim Taek-woo, chief of the Korea Medical Association's emergency committee, a number of ranking KMA officials, and Park Dan, the head of the Korea Intern Resident Association, on eight counts of charges, including violation of the medical law, threats and coercion, the group said. It said a similar complaint was compiled against thousands of trainee doctors who have resigned from the five biggest general hospitals in Seoul this week. "The most important responsibility of the accused is to protect the lives and health of the people. But they neglected their responsibility, submitted letters of resignation and walked off the job for unjustifiable reasons, undermining the liberal democratic system and the rule of law," the group said in the complaint. It also accused the KMA emergency committee of having threatened and forced trainee doctors to go on strike by issuing inappropriate warnings about possible disadvantages for the strike participants. The civic group then urged the police to carry out a prompt and thorough investigation regardless of the number of trainee doctors who comply with the collective resignations. (Yonhap) Scheduled surgeries have been reduced or delayed at five major general hospitals in Seoul, with signs of strain in medical services looming, as more than 70 percent of trainee doctors submitted their resignations against a plan to boost the number of medical students. Concerns over public health have heightened as doctors and the government traded barbs over the plan to raise the medical school admission quota by 2,000 seats next year. With trainee doctors walking off the job, the five major hospitals in Seoul have reportedly canceled or delayed surgeries. The five hospitals Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul St. Mary's Hospital have played a key role in providing medical care for critical patients. As of Tuesday, a total of 8,816 trainee doctors, or 71.2 percent of the junior doctors, had submitted their resignations and 7,813 of them left their work sites, Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo told reporters. Park said the government ordered 6,112 trainee doctors to return to work. So far, the ministry has received 92 complaints in connection with the trainee doctors' collective resignations. Trainee doctors appeared to up the ante in their confrontation with the government, as about 6,400 had submitted resignations as of Monday. There are some 13,000 trainee doctors in Korea. "No country in the world has seen medical workers taking collective action while leaving critically ill and emergency patients," Park told reporters. "I am disappointed and concerned over the idea of doctors' groups believing that doctors' rights come before patients' lives." "The trainee doctors' right to take collective action cannot have precedence over people's basic right to life," Park said. To cope with a potential disruption to medical services, the government has extended operating hours at 97 public hospitals and opened emergency rooms at 12 military hospitals to the public. Despite the government's back-to-work order, trainee doctors have shown no sign of backing down. In a statement, the Korean Intern Resident Association, a major organization of trainee doctors, demanded the government withdraw the plan to increase the number of medical students. Describing the plan as "ridiculous," the association criticized the government for treating trainee doctors as "criminals by overusing extrajudicial executive orders." The government says the increase in the admission quota is needed to address a shortage of doctors, particularly in rural areas and essential medical fields, such as high-risk surgeries, pediatrics, obstetrics and emergency medicine. The number of doctors in Korea relative to the size of the population is among the lowest in the developed world, according to health authorities. But doctors have claimed that the government has not had full consultations on the matter and that the move will compromise the quality of medical education and services. (Yonhap) By Lee Hae-rin A gay couple urged Korea's Supreme Court to rule in favor of offering equal state benefits for same-sex couples and stop discrimination based on sexual orientation, Wednesday, on the first anniversary of the landmark appellate ruling in favor of non-heterosexual couples' eligibility to receive spousal health insurance benefits. "It was on this day last year that a Korean court recognized for the first time the relationships of sexual minorities who are already living together as a family," Kim Yong-min, the plaintiff, said during a press conference in front of the Supreme Court in Seoul. Kim's partner, So Sung-uk, filed an administrative lawsuit against the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in January 2021 after it canceled So's status as Kim's dependent for the state health insurance, citing an "administrative error." Kim could register So as his dependent in February 2020, and the couple received media attention a year later for being the first known same-sex couple to do so in Korea. In a landmark ruling last year, the Seoul High Court sided with the couple and ordered the NHIS to nullify its cancellation of So's dependent status. The ruling, which said the judiciary has the responsibility to protect the rights of marginalized groups in society, was Korea's first to acknowledge systemic discrimination against same-sex couples, according to the couple's attorney, Kim Ji-rim. Although the court did not recognize Kim and So as common-law partners, it said they are "essentially no different from civil marriage couples" and that it is discriminatory to exclude same-sex couples from spousal benefits given to heterosexual couples. The NHIS, however, challenged the decision and took the case to the Supreme Court, which has yet to make a ruling. "As a result, despite the high court's progressive decision, nothing has changed in our lives. We cannot register each other as dependents for health insurance and we live in constant anxiety about what may happen in the absence of a system that can protect our relationship," Kim Yong-min said. Amnesty International submitted a legal opinion to the Supreme Court on Feb. 5 and recommended granting equal social security benefits to same-sex couples, according to the group's campaign manager, Myung Hee-su. Several United Nations-affiliated organizations and international human rights groups have urged the Korean government to grant equal rights, legal protection and state benefits to same-sex couples, Myung said. Additionally, the couple and activists demanded the National Assembly pass a bill that would protect the rights of same-sex couples. As of February, 37 countries, with a total of 1.3 billion people, accounting for 17 percent of the world's population, have legalized same-sex marriage. Korea has recognized same-sex spouses of foreign diplomats since October 2019 but does not recognize same-sex spouses of Korean diplomats overseas. On bubble, Padres reliever Go Woo-suk fighting to make it to Opening Day roster on home soil Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung urged trainee doctors Wednesday to return to work as they stayed away from the job for the second day as part of a collective resignation campaign protesting the government's plan to increase medical school admissions. Lee also urged the government to come up with a compromise, stressing that the planned 65 percent hike, or 2,000 seats, in the medical school admission quota is too steep and the increase should be carried out gradually. Medical services at general hospitals across the country, including the country's five biggest hospitals in Seoul, experienced partial disruptions, such as canceled surgeries, after interns and resident doctors failed to report for work following their mass resignations. "While hoping for an immediate cessation of strikes or collective action, I also urge the government to create feasible alternatives through sufficient discussions," Lee, chairman of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, said in a party leadership meeting. According to the health ministry, more than 70 percent of trainee doctors nationwide, including interns and residents, have submitted their resignations en masse as of Wednesday. Out of over 8,800, about 7,800 did not report for work, and more junior doctors are expected to follow suit. The collective action is part of a nationwide protest against the government's decision to add 2,000 slots to the country's medical school enrollment quota next year, a significant increase from the current 3,058 seats. "It is appropriate to increase gradually and sequentially," Lee said, adding that the government's plan to increase medical student admissions should take into consideration realistic matters. On Tuesday, President Yoon Suk Yeol urged young doctors to call off their collective action, saying that the increase still falls far short of the required number and there would be no negotiation with the planned increase. Criticizing Yoon's strong stance, Lee said such remarks will not only fail to solve the current problem but will also intensify the standoff between the government and the medical community. (Yonhap) Axe throwing has come to Nelson County at Three Notchd Brewery. The Nellysford brewery has been expanding to offer new activities along with event spaces and thought axe throwing would be a good fit for the area. Many of us had gotten to go axe throwing and weve seen in it the bigger cities like Richmond become popular. But, I think it really fits the atmosphere of the area. Its a little more country and axe throwing in the city is a lot different than axe throwing in the country, Marianna Schuster, the brewerys general manager said. The sessions are spread out over 90 minutes. A group of one to eight guests can sign up and pay $100 for that 90 minutes. Once a customer arrives for their time slot, they have to sign a waiver, get a demonstration of how to throw, and they will also get a private server where they will have full access to the brewerys menu. The time slots for the sessions will vary from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m daily. Schuster told the Nelson County Times that in order to put safety first, drinking will not be allowed in the lanes. We all have a lot of experience in the industry with making sure people drink safely. With a server and manager always on property and always involved in it, we feel pretty good that it wont be an issue, Schuster said. The brewery is going to start having axe-throwing tournaments at least twice per year to involve the community in a competitive way. Saturday and Sunday have been popular for the throwing room. Three Notchd opened in July in Nelson County and this is their sixth location in Virginia. The brewery just started hosting bingo events every third Wednesday of the month and has new cocktails ready to try. This location also distills its own whiskey which has just had its third release. To to sign up for their axe throwing, visit Three Notchd Brewerys website at https://threenotchdbrewing.com/pages/axe-throwing. A special use permit request for a couple to operate an Elon home and greenhouse as a venue for weddings and photo shoots and host short-term rentals received a recommendation of denial from the Amherst County Planning Commission. The commissions vote Feb. 15 came after a public hearing where several residents raised objections with a use they said disrupts their quiet residential area on Phyllis Lea Drive in the Elon area. The applicant, Alexis Fisher and her husband, has operated without a permit, according to Tyler Creasy, the countys director of community development. This comes up a lot in our office. Individuals dont know that they need to have special permission to do these types of events and I believe that is the case here, Creasy told the commission. Fisher said the couple turned the greenhouse into a successful business and immediately fell in love with the property several years ago. We wanted to make an offer even before we entered the front door, Fisher said. The beauty here in Elon is absolutely breathtaking. The 1920s-era farmhouse would only be rented out to brides and their families and accommodates no more than six guests because of the septic capacity, Fisher said. We want to be able to offer a place for getting ready for both bridal parties and for out-of-town brides, Fisher said. There would never be more than six guests in the home so it would not be a party house. The value of the home has doubled because of renovations the couple has completed since October 2022 when they moved in and the guests who stay support the local economy and restaurants, she said. We have added value to the homes around us because of our upgrades, Fisher said. We promise to always be respectful, clean and honor the integrity of the land and our surroundings ... We are excited to hopefully continue to share the beauty with many that appreciate a unique spot for photography and micro-weddings. Fisher said sweat and tears have been put into the project that honors the beauty of Elon. In November and December more than 40 photo shoots were held there, she said. A stay-at-home mom, Fisher said she foresees moving out of the house eventually to live in a bigger home for the family, but will closely monitor its operations. Greg Freshour, a nearby resident who lives on Kimberlea Road, presented a petition from local residents who oppose the operation to the commission and said additional traffic and noise negatively affects the serene area. The disruption of music, loud speakers, karaoke machines and noise levels would be detrimental to the residents of these quiet neighborhoods, Freshour said. Residents have already experienced those issues. He expressed concern with more traffic on a private road in the area. This is agricultural and residential, not for a busy business enterprise, Freshour said. No maybe about it, neighbors will hear music and loud talking. Weve already heard it ... It would disrupt the peace and quiet area at the base of Tobacco Row Mountain. He said he moved to the area more than 20 years ago for the peace and quiet Elon offers. Im not against wedding venues ... I just dont want them sitting in my backyard or in my neighborhood, Freshour said. Plenty of other locations with mountain views that dont encroach on neighbors make sense for such a use with large acreage. Wedding venues are perfect for wide open spaces, not crammed into neighborhoods on a five-acre plot to disrupt all the other residents who surround that property. John Ledingham, a neighboring resident, raised concern the project could evolve into a regular nuisance for the area. Whitney Gregory, who lives on Phylis Lea Drive, said the five-acre site is not the right place for such an operation. This venue has been forced into our daily lives since December 2022, Gregory said. How much more would we have to endure if a permit would be granted? Gregory said the majority of residents do not want the commercial venture on a quiet, dead-end road surrounded by homes. We want to enjoy our own property at any time without having to compete with these sounds ... we want to teach our kids and grandkids how to ride bikes without having to dodge out-of-town customers, Gregory told the commission. What precedent would you be setting? Anyone could come and run a business at the detriment of nearby neighbors. Our perfect slice of Virginia would never be the same. Fisher said three weddings were held on the property to date, one in 2022 and two last year, and only one had a microphone. The site called Three Oaks Minor is not a regular short-term rental outside of wedding parties and noise, and traffic is closely monitored, she said. David Pugh, an Amherst County Board of Supervisors member who serves a liaison to the commission, said the special exception process is in place to take into account public outcry. This is a very beautiful part of the county, Pugh said. Having an Airbnb or something of that nature, I think, would step on the neighbors toes. I know the people in this area are very sentimental about their property, their views and their way of life. I dont think its the right spot for it. Creasy said county staff recommends a condition that music not be held on site after 9 p.m. A few commissioners said they had no issue with the photography side of the venture. Derin Foor, the commission chair, said he felt the wedding venue is disruptive to neighbors. Commissioner Leslie Gamble said residents in that area pay a lot of money to maintain their private road. Whats been loud and clear to me is their peace and enjoyment will be gone if this is there, Gamble said. I think its very obvious this does not fit in this neighborhood. TOKYO, Feb 21 (News On Japan) - Japan's Kanto region is experiencing a sudden drop in temperature since yesterday's highs, with caution being advised for heavy rain in Western Japan and Ishikawa Prefecture. As of 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 21, the temperature in Tokyo was 7.8C, while in Isesaki, Gunma, which experienced summery conditions on Tuesday, it was 8.3C, more than 10C lower than at the same time on Monday. The severe cold is expected to continue throughout Wednesday afternoon. In Kyushu, where a stationary front lingers, there have been thunderstorms since the early hours, and for the first time this year, extremely heavy rain exceeding 50 mm per hour has been observed nationwide. Western Japan is expected to receive more than 100 mm of heavy rain through the morning of the 22nd. In the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, there is a risk of warning-level heavy rain, necessitating caution for landslides, rising river levels, and flooding in low-lying areas. Source: ANN The ruling People Power Party (PPP) renewed its commitment Wednesday to administrative district reorganization aimed at including Gimpo and other adjacent cities in Seoul as it wooed voters in such cities ahead of April's general elections. Rep. Yun Jae-ok made the remarks in a National Assembly address as the representative of a parliamentary negotiating bloc, vowing to incorporate adjacent cities into Seoul and divide Gyeonggi Province surrounding Seoul into North Gyeonggi and South Gyeonggi provinces. "It is time to push for administrative district reorganization," Yun said during the address. "By reorganizing administrative jurisdictions, we should address the inconveniences of residents and improve their quality of life." The PPP has been working on the idea of incorporating adjacent cities into Seoul since late October 2023. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea has denounced the push as a populist policy ahead of the parliamentary elections. During the speech, Yun also pledged to speed up the construction project of the Great Train Express lines connecting Seoul with neighboring areas. He also vowed to give tax benefits to small and medium-sized companies moving their offices to state-designated business zones outside of Seoul. (Yonhap) TOKYO, Feb 21 (News On Japan) - A film director arrested for sexually assaulting a woman aspiring to be an actress under the guise of acting instruction reportedly told her that "sometimes you have to be naked to appear in movies," according to investigative sources. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department is looking into the possibility that the director exploited his position. The director has denied the allegations, claiming, "It's a false charge." Hidehiro Sakaki, a 53-year-old corporate executive and film director from Nakahara Ward, Kawasaki City, was arrested for sexually assaulting a woman in her 20s, who aspired to be an actress, at a condominium in Minato Ward, Tokyo, under the pretext of giving acting lessons in 2016, eight years ago. He was sent to the prosecutor's office on Wednesday morning, February 21. He has denied the allegations, stating, "It's a false charge." According to the investigation so far, the suspect is believed to have lured the woman, who was participating in a workshop where he was providing acting instruction, to his condominium by saying, "Let's talk more about acting." Investigative sources say he further told her, "If you're going to be in a movie, there are times when you have to be naked. Try getting naked." At the time, the woman believed she would be able to appear in a movie, but she never did. Consequently, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the possibility that the director misused his position. Moreover, as there have been multiple consultations from other potential victims with similar complaints, the police are also investigating these related cases. Source: NHK TOKYO, Feb 21 (News On Japan) - The release date for the movie "Crayon Shin-chan: My Dinosaur Diary," based on the original work by Yoshito Usui, has been set for August 9, 2024. A 90-second trailer has also been released. Viewers can get a glimpse of the movie from the trailer, which shows Shinnosuke and the Kasukabe Defense Corps, along with Ai-chan, enjoying a tour of the dinosaur-inhabited theme park DinoZoa Island. The trailer also features scenes where Shiro encounters a small dinosaur named Nana by the Kasukabe riverbank and creates many memories, as well as a scene where the Nohara family is crushed by a gigantic dinosaur. In addition, from March 1, advance tickets with a special bonus will be sold in limited quantities at theaters across Japan. The bonus includes a "Dinosaur Shin-chan Capsule Charm," which contains a plate of Shiro and Shinnosuke dressed as a dinosaur inside a capsule. The "Crayon Shin-chan" series, which started serialization in Manga Action (Futabasha) in 1990 and began airing as a TV anime in 1992, released its first 3DCG movie "Shin Dimension! Crayon Shin-chan THE MOVIE: Super-Dimensional Battle ~Fly Fly Tama-maki Sushi~" in 2023. The latest film, "My Dinosaur Diary," will be directed by Shinobu Sasaki with a screenplay by Moraru. The Crayon Shin-chan series has been a beloved fixture in Japanese pop culture, and the announcement of the 31st movie installment is eagerly anticipated by fans. The adventures of the mischievous Shinnosuke and his family have continued to capture the hearts of audiences, both young and old. The combination of comedy, family dynamics, and now a dinosaur-themed storyline is sure to provide a fresh and entertaining experience for viewers. As the movie's release date approaches, fans can look forward to more updates and promotional events that will build up the excitement for this new chapter in the Crayon Shin-chan saga. The "Crayon Shin-chan: My Dinosaur Diary" is set to roar into theaters on Friday, August 9, 2024. (c) Yoshito Usui/Futabasha, Shin-Ei, TV Asahi, ADK 2024 Source: Natalie The Council Bluffs Schools Foundation announced Bridgette Watson as its new executive director. "We are thrilled," Foundation Board of Directors Chair Erin Johnson said in a news release Tuesday. "Bridgette's proven leadership and passion for our community make her the ideal candidate to lead the foundation into its next chapter of growth and impact. We are confident that under her guidance, the foundation will continue to make a lasting difference throughout our school district." Watson previously served five years as the foundations director of development. Bridgette has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision and an ability to make meaningful connections within our community, Johnson said. Her efforts have enhanced the foundation's capacity to support educational initiatives and programs within the school district. Prior to joining the foundation in 2019, Watson worked for seven years at Iowa Western Community College in a variety of roles, including associate dean of Pottawattamie Promise. "I am deeply honored and excited to assume the role of executive director at the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation," Watson said in the release. "Having been a part of this incredible organization for the past five years, I am aware of the vital role it plays in supporting our schools and shaping the future of our community." Watson said she is looking forward "to collaborating with our dedicated team and partners to build upon our successes and ensure that all students, families and staff have the resources and support they need to thrive. Watson replaces Chris LaFerla, who resigned from the position in December to become the executive director of the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce, which now also operates The 712 Initiative. "Strong public schools are vital for a vibrant community, and the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation plays an important role of supporting children, families and staff of the district," LaFerla told the Nonpareil in a text message. "Bridgette is an outstanding leader, and the chamber stands ready to support Bridgette and her vision for the foundation. Council Bluffs Community School District Superintendent Vickie Murillo commended Watson for her instrumental contributions to the success of foundation events, including the annual Education is Everyones Business luncheon and the annual Cheers for CB Schools on the Historic 100 Block. I look forward to working closely with her and to building on the success of the Foundation's efforts to support our district staff, programs and priorities, Murillo said in the release. Watson holds a masters degree in managerial communication from Bellevue University and a bachelors degree in public relations from Northwest Missouri State University. Watson is an active volunteer in the community, serving on the Council Bluffs Planning Commission, Friends of Childrens Square Board of Directors, Council Bluffs Guild of the Omaha Symphony Board and the Council Bluffs Ambassadors. Watson was recognized by the Midlands Business Journal with 2023 40 Under 40 honors. Anywhere that brings in money can expect fraudsters to follow. Higher education is no different. Iowa Western Community College recently caught 109 so-called ghost students posing as actual Reivers in the hopes of illicitly capturing federal student aid dollars. An enrollment report from Iowa Western President Dan Kinney to the colleges Board of Trustees on Monday included a tangent discussion of the colleges success at rooting out imposters. We had a faculty member question some attendance in one of their classrooms, Kinney said. This has been an ongoing issue in higher education for years. There are people who are out there who try to fraud institutions. They get enrolled. The day that they can, they drop out, take their Pell grant and run. This semester, 109 of those students were caught by Iowa Western, preventing the disbursement of student aid money that would have otherwise been remitted back by Iowa Western, leaving the college on the hook to try to claw back those dollars. By avoiding fraud, Iowa Western saves money that would ultimately have come from taxpayers and actual students tuition. This has been going on for years, said Eddie Holtz, vice president of finance. Sometimes we catch them. Sometimes we dont. Kinney said the student aid process used to be driven by paperwork, but the shift to electronic payments coupled with the introduction of online-only classes has accelerated the opportunity for people to fradulently pose as students. The introduction of generative artificial intelligence has further complicated identifying ghost students. Instead of initial assignments being skipped or receiving one-word answers, AI allows fraudsters to better mimic actual student work while they wait to drop out. Whats happening now is kids are actually or robots or AI or someone is actually doing some of that work, so it gets a little more confusing on whether its a real student or not, Holtz said. Three or four weeks into the semester, students who arent showing up and turning in work will be identified and not provided student fee money. But Holtz said those who are registering as participating will get funds, which makes catching ghost students a priority. Holtz said one of the 109 accounts identified this semester would have had a $9,000 credit go back to them. Later, that money would have been refunded by Iowa Western to the lender or the federal government, leaving the community college carrying the likely uncollectible debt. They are trying to get the most refund possible, Holtz said. Now keep in mind, there are real kids doing this, too, or students or 45-year-old people, but theres also bots and scam rings. College officials are finding ways to keep up, Kinney said. Iowa Western is working with an outside company to compare information provided by students against suspected fraud activity and reported identity theft. The more we can do to reduce these, the better, Holtz said. I dont want to be the easiest target out there. If Im not the easiest target, theyre probably going to go somewhere else. DES MOINES Iowa House Republicans advanced a bill Tuesday to prohibit use of a planned merchant code for credit card transactions at gun retailers meant to detect suspicious firearms and ammunition sales. House File 2464 would prevent banks and credit card companies from using a merchant code that would differentiate a gun shop from a general merchandise or sporting goods store. It would also prohibit banks and credit card companies from declining a transaction based solely on a firearms code attached to the store. And it would bar state and local governmental agencies from keeping a record or registry of privately owned firearms, except for records kept during the regular course of a criminal investigation, a criminal prosecution, any court case or as otherwise required by law. The bill was amended to codify current standard practices of financial institutions to provide consumer protections, including to help detect and deter illegal or suspicious activities, and also prevent fraud by alerting customers of a suspicious purchase on their bank card or credit card. Rep. Phil Thompson, R-Boone, chair of the House Public Safety Committee, said the bill aims to prevent financial institutions from creating a de facto gun registry. Merchant category codes are used to classify different types of businesses by the types of goods and services sold. The U.S. Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network has sent guidance to financial institutions encouraging them to use new merchant category codes that would help them monitor and report suspicious activity connected to illegal firearms trafficking, money-laundering proceeds from trafficking in firearms or other criminal activity. Major credit card companies are moving to make a merchant code available for firearm and ammunition retailers to comply with a new California law that will allow banks to potentially track suspicious gun purchases and report them to law enforcement. Visa, Mastercard and American Express had paused the implementation of the new code because some Republican-led states are working to block its enactment. Supporters of the bill said the code is an infringement on privacy and Second Amendment rights. The problem is this is a huge violation of financial privacy, and this is just a back way to keep a list of privately owned firearms, Thompson said. Gun safety advocates say the code, approved by an international organization in 2022, can be used as a tool help banks and financial institutions report suspicious gun purchasing activity to law enforcement, consistent with their existing obligations to report suspicious activity related to terrorism financing and other illicit activities. It appears that there's a problem, but no problem could be defined, Rep. David Jacoby, D-Coralville, said. There's a paranoia about a registry. And there's also an accusation for our financial institutions providing coding to the private sector and the government, which is not happening at the current time. We already allow criminal investigations where needed when there's criminal prosecutions or investigations. But, I did ask the question: Does this bill do anything to prevent school shootings? It does not. The bill passed the House 68-27, with Democrats opposed. It now heads to the Senate for consideration and approval. Key terms you should know to understand the gun control debate Gun Control Act of 1968 Firearm Owners Protection Act Title II, NFA weapons Assault weapons ban Second Amendment National Rifle Association March for Our Lives Gunowners of America Assault weapon Automatic weapon Semiautomatic weapon Caliber International gun control Brady Law National Instant Criminal Background Check System Gun show loophole Strawman purchase Mass shootings Bump stocks Binary trigger Pistol grip Flash suppressor High-capacity magazine Background checks Open carry BLOOMFIELD Law enforcement officials on Wednesday identified the two people killed in a shooting at a bowling alley in Bloomfield Tuesday morning. Curt Strom, 77, and William Reffett, 49, both died of gunshot wounds sustained while they were at Curts Lanes and Dining located at 112 W. Grant St. in Bloomfield, said Capt. Dain Hicks, the state patrols Troop B commander, during a press conference Wednesday morning. Law enforcement officers were called to the bowling alley around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. At the business, the Knox County Sheriffs Office and Bloomfield Police Department located Strom and Reffett, who were pronounced dead. The police department requested assistance from the state patrol to investigate the incident. Shortly into the investigation, authorities detained multiple persons of interest, Hicks said, who were identified as Alias Reed, 25, and Kaylyne Sweazy, 27. Preliminarily, investigators believe that Reed went to the bowling alley with a shotgun Tuesday morning and initiated an argument with Reffett. Reed shot Reffett and moments later shot Strom, who was not involved in the argument, Hicks said. Reed then left the bowling alley. Investigators located the shotgun believed to be used in the shooting in a ditch along a county road several miles west of Bloomfield. Reed and Sweazy allegedly traveled to the area west of Bloomfield to dispose of the weapon. Authorities arrested Reed on suspicion of two counts of first-degree murder and Sweazy on suspicion of tampering with evidence. Hicks said Reed also would be charged with robbery, as money believed to have been stolen from the bowling alley was found by investigators. Reed is housed at the Knox County Jail in Center, and Sweazy is lodged at the Antelope County Jail in Neligh. Strom was the owner of Curts Lanes and Dining. Reffett was not an employee of the business, and authorities are still determining how the argument between Reed and Reffett ensued. Hicks said investigators are still looking into whether the shotgun was purchased and possessed legally by Reed. The possible motive behind the shootings also is still under investigation, and the connection between the suspects and the victims isnt clear, though Hicks said its his understanding that there had been acquaintances in the past. Nobody is believed to have witnessed the shooting. Others were questioned about the incident but released, he said. At this point in time, we have nobody else who we have in for questioning, but again, its an ongoing investigation, Hicks said. Knox County Sheriff Don Henery said Bloomfield Public Schools and other area schools were placed on lockdown. Bloomfield was placed in secure status by 10 a.m. Tuesday and was given the "all clear" around 1 p.m. Henery said homicides dont happen very often in Knox County, which has a population of about 8,500 people. Bloomfield, a town of about 1,000 people, is a tight-knit town, and the effect its had on us is terrible, Henery said. Anytime we do (have a homicide), to say its shocking would be an understatement, he said, because it is. Several members of the community gathered at the Bloomfield City Hall Wednesday morning, some of whom embraced and shed tears. This follows a candlelight vigil held on Tuesday night at the town's Veterans Memorial Park. Henery and Hicks expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and thanked the community for its support. Our thoughts are with the families of these two victims, as well as the entire community of Bloomfield, Hicks said. We understand that the community may desire more information about the details of this investigation, but our goal is for this to result in a successful prosecution. Hicks thanked the sheriffs office and police department for their assistance in the investigation, as well as the community for their support on Tuesday for law enforcement officials. This would be shocking for any community, especially in a town as tight-knit as Bloomfield, Hicks said. According to court records, Reed and Sweazy are at the center of a child custody case in which the Knox County Attorneys Office has requested that a newborn baby be placed into custody of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. A petition filed Feb. 10 alleges that the baby was being neglected, and that the familys home, located at 210 W. Grant St., does not have gas, heat or hot water. The petition also states that the family does not have necessary supplies to take care of a newborn baby, as there is no crib or safe sleep space for the infant. Sweazy had said she would be formula feeding the baby, but there were no bottles in the home aside from one bottle sent with the parents from the hospital. The document asks the child to be adjudicated by the court. A county court judge ordered for the newborn to be placed into DHHS care, with a further hearing scheduled for Thursday, March 7. Severe storms with probable tornadoes tore through several central U.S. states, damaging homes and businesses and killing at least three people, with more bodies likely to be discovered, authorities said. As the sun rose Friday, officials scrambled to assess the extent of the destruction wit BLOOMFIELD A Bloomfield man was arrested on suspicion of two counts of first-degree murder on Tuesday following the shooting deaths of two men at a local bowling alley, and his girlfriend was apprehended for allegedly tampering with evidence. Cody Thomas, public relations director for the Nebraska State Patrol, said Tuesday evening that law enforcement was called to Curt's Lanes and Dining at 112 W. Grant St. in Bloomfield around 9:30 a.m. At the business, the Knox County Sheriffs Office and Bloomfield Police Department located two deceased men, each with apparent gunshot wounds. The police department requested assistance from the state patrol to investigate the incident, Thomas said. Preliminary investigation led to the identification of Alias Reed, 25, of Bloomfield as a person of interest. Reed was located a short time later and taken into custody. Following further investigation, Reed was arrested on suspicion of two counts of first-degree murder, Thomas said. Reeds girlfriend, Kaylyne Sweazy, 27, was arrested on suspicion of tampering with evidence. Both suspects were located at their home. Reed was lodged at the Knox County Jail, and Sweazy was taken to the Antelope County Jail. Preliminarily, investigators believe the shooting occurred during an altercation between Reed and the victims at the bowling alley. Officials wearing investigative gear spent the afternoon going in and out of Curts Lanes and Dining and continued to work into the evening. Several uniformed patrol officers had nearby streets blocked off. Thomas said he couldnt yet release the identities of the victims, but a press conference was scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday. There is no ongoing threat to the public, he said. Some Bloomfield businesses closed for the day when they learned of the homicides, while others entered lockdown status until law enforcement announced that there was not an ongoing threat, according to employees and patrons at nearby businesses. After the shootings, at the request of the Knox County Sheriffs Office, Bloomfield Community Schools went into secure status, meaning nobody was allowed to enter or leave the building while classes went on as scheduled. The school was given the all clear shortly after 1 p.m. An employee at a business located about a block from the bowling alley spoke on the condition of anonymity, telling the Daily News, All Ill tell you is that its sad and senseless. This didnt have to happen. Alan Lemke grew up in Bloomfield, moved away for about 50 years and moved back about 20 years ago. He said he went to school with one of the victims and considered that victim a friend. Lemke said he was at Good Samaritan Society for physical therapy around 10:15 a.m. Tuesday when staff there informed him and others of what was going on. Lemke said he opted for a safer environment and went home right away. He doesnt recall anything like what happened on Tuesday occurring while hes lived in Bloomfield, calling the town a safe community to live in. But he also feels as though people have lost control, explaining that incidents like Tuesdays can happen anywhere at any time. Lemke said hed been a frequent patron of Curts Lanes and Dining, adding that he was there last week and enjoyed the food and coffee. A woman shopping at a grocery store said her family has fond memories at the bowling alley, which has been in business for decades in Bloomfield. She remembers moving to town in 1982 when her son was a kindergartner. The next year, her son took bowling lessons, learning how to play, clean the lanes and how the equipment operated. The woman, like Lemke, said she doesnt remember an event comparable to a double homicide happening in Bloomfield since shes lived here. She said she still feels safe despite the sketchy situation. This story was updated at 8:10 p.m. Tuesday with information about the suspects. The Qatar-Morocco Cultural Year 2024 kicked off on Tuesday with an exhibition of the Moroccan Royal Palaces Berber Jewelry collection at Dohas Museum of Islamic Art The exhibition of Berber silver jewelry from the Royal Palaces collection, for the first time outside of Morocco, can only be a source of pride for the Qataris, stated Shaikha Al-Nassr, the Director of the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony of the Berber jewelry exhibition. In a statement to the press Shaikha Al-Nassr expressed delight at the reception of this collection of 220 captivating works, unveiled for the first time outside the Kingdom. She expressed her gratitude to the National Museums Foundation, which provided all the appropriate conditions for the organization of this event. The Qatar-Morocco 2024 Years of Culture features a series of diverse and exciting activities and events, fostering a spirit of learning, sharing experiences, and promoting ties between the two countries. On her part, Al Jazi Khayarin, spokesperson for the Years of Culture initiative, emphasized that the choice of Morocco as Qatars partner for the 2024 Years of Culture illustrates the depth of bilateral friendship and cooperation. This event, marked by multiple activities in both countries, will rejuvenate cooperation and partnership, particularly in the cultural domain, she said. Chairman of the National Museums Foundation (FNM), Mehdi Qotbi, on his part said the exhibition highlights the depth of Moroccan-Qatari ties as the display of this collection beyond Moroccan borders symbolizes the values of fraternity, friendship, and cultural exchange between the two nations. Qotbi highlighted the cultural and aesthetic significance of this collection, which bears testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans. He emphasized that the exhibition reflects the richness of Moroccan identity, drawing from its diverse cultural heritage. President of the Spanish government, Pedro Sanchez, arrived in Morocco on Wednesday, as part of a working and friendship visit to the Kingdom. Sanchez is accompanied by Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jose Manuel Albares, during this visit, his first to the North African Kingdom since his government took office in January. The President of the Spanish Government wrote on his X account upon arrival in Rabat that relations with our neighbor, friend, and strategic partner are at their best moment in decades. This official visit gives a new impetus to our cooperation in all areas and consolidates a model of constructive neighborhood based on trust and mutual respect, he added. During his official trip to Morocco, Pedro Sanchez will hold talks with senior Moroccan officials, including his counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch. Pedro Sanchezs previous official visit to Morocco dates back to February 2, 2023, when he co-chaired with Akhannouch the 12th high-level meeting between the two countries. Sources from the Spanish government highlighted, according to the Spanish official news agency EFE, the importance of this trip, which comes at the beginning of the legislature presided over by Sanchez. The aim is to further strengthen the excellent nature of bilateral relations between the two countries. This position was expressed last December in Rabat by the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, who, during the visit of his Spanish counterpart to Rabat, stated that relations with Spain have never reached such a level of strength, solidity, and trust. This stage of the bilateral relationship was sealed during last years High-Level Meeting, which was preceded by Sanchezs meeting with King Mohammed VI in April 2022 in Rabat, following the letter sent by the Prime Minister to the Sovereign, in which the Spanish government expressed its support for the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty for the Saharan provinces. This plan was endorsed by Spain as the most serious, credible, and realistic approach to resolving the Sahara conflict. President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed Wednesday to make sweeping changes to regulations governing the use of "greenbelt" zones, or land protected from development to preserve the environment, to secure more plots to build cutting-edge industries. Yoon made the pledge during a government-public debate on livelihood issues, the 13th of its kind, which was held in Ulsan, a city known for its shipbuilding and auto industries and located 299 kilometers southeast of Seoul. "We will carry out a full-scale revision of the standardized clearance criteria, which have been a critical obstacle to undoing a greenbelt zone, for the first time in 20 years," he said during the session held at a convention center. "In the case of Ulsan and other regions, even greenbelt areas under a high level of preservation will be changed to make them easier to use if there is an economic need and a need by the people." Yoon said the plan was a fulfillment of a campaign promise he made to the people of Ulsan, and a step toward achieving his goal of balanced development across regions. He also vowed to deregulate the use of farmland, including by easing procedures to run smart farms and vertical farms, and allowing leftover farmland to be used to build schools, hospitals and libraries for the local community. He said 336 farmland use regulations are imposed by 12 ministries and local governments, and a full-scale survey will be carried out to abolish those that are outdated. The plans are led by the Office for Government Policy Coordination, the land ministry and the agriculture ministry, which jointly presented them during Wednesday's debate. The government plans to drastically relax the greenbelt regulations in noncapital areas but determine each local government's needs before deciding on the exact scale and scope. (Yonhap) Niger failed to make a debt payment of 13.4 billion CFA francs ($22 million) last week, the West African debt management agency said on Monday (19 February), bringing the total default to $519 million since a coup in July 2023 and its subsequent suspension from regional financial markets. The West African Economic Monetary Union (WAEMU) debt management agency UMOA-Titres said in a statement that Niger had been unable to meet its financial obligations on the Government securities market after it had failed to make a repayment of principal which was due on 16 February. This situation is carefully monitored by UMOA-Titres in collaboration with the institutions concerned, the statement added. Following the military coup in July 2023 that ousted a democratically elected president, Niger has been suspended from the regional financial market and the regional central bank by the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). UMOA-Titres also noted that Nigers failure to make a debt payment needs to be seen in the context of the country being subject to these punitive measures and also sanctions imposed by the ECOWAS. Other countries, including the United States and the European Union, that had provided aid for health, security and infrastructure needs, also suspended their support. But all these measures have had little or no effect on the ambition of the government, which has consolidated its hold on power while millions in Niger face growing hardship. Last week, the leading rating agency Moodys downgraded Nigers credit risk rating from Caa2 to Caa3 for the third time since the coup, citing the sanctions (that) have exacerbated economic difficulties and further hampered the governments potential ability to meet its obligations. They taught us a lesson, but they will also learn, Burkina Fasos junta leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, has warned the regional bloc ECOWAS of a possible armed conflict amid escalating tensions, stressing that the united armies of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) are prepared to take on the ECOWAS forces that had been touted to be on standby. The confrontation between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on the one side and the coup-hit Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso on the other may have just escalated. There are reportedly thousands of recorded deaths as a result of the back-and-forth between the two sides, which the Burkina Fasos junta leader blames squarely on ECOWAS. According to a tweet by the journalist Sy Marcus Herve Traore, Captain Traores grievances were expounded during his recent speech, in which he accused ECOWAS, and particularly its head, Nigerias president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, of being responsible for the the deaths of thousands of Nigerians. We are waiting for that standby force (ECOWAS). Thousands of Nigerians died on their hospital beds because of a lack of electricity or lack of medicine, Traore said. It is a crime! They are responsible for these sanctions, they are responsible for these deaths. He also noted that this, however, has not taken away the fighting spirit of the Nigerian people. Do you think there are weak men who are in Niger? There are fighters over there. The Nigerian army is warlike. They have been fighting for years. The three junta-led West African states have recently decided to form their own confederation (AES) that preceded their decision to leave the West African bloc. At this point, he also warned that Nigerian army is not an army of parade or a peacekeeping army but is ready, united with the other two AES armies, to take on the ECOWAS forces. Defense cooperation and shared security interests between Morocco and the United States were at the focus of a meeting in Rabat Wednesday between Minister in charge of National Defense Administration, Abdeltif Loudyi, and Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, AFRICOM Commander, who is visiting Morocco. Talks also discussed the potential to further strengthen Morocco-US partnership and ways to expand cooperation to other areas. The two officials expressed their satisfaction with the level of excellence achieved by military cooperation relations that were consolidated by the contributions of the 2020-2030 defense partnership roadmap, the General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) said in a statement. They praised the positive results and collaboration ties initiated and monitored by the Defense Consultative Committee, which is held alternately in Rabat and Washington, ties that are supported by the regular exchange of visits by senior military and political officials from both countries, added the statement. During the meeting, Loudyi highlighted the Royal Initiative aimed at transforming Africas Atlantic coastline into a space of shared peace, stability, and prosperity, including all the countries in the continents Atlantic band. The initiative also aims to facilitate access to the Atlantic Ocean for landlocked Sahel countries, which, according to the royal vision, will strengthen South-South cooperation, security, and peace in the region. The American general took the opportunity to express his admiration for the important role played by Morocco under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, as an actor for stability and peace in Africa, the FAR statement said. At the end of the meeting, the two officials expressed their shared ambition and desire to consolidate these exemplary relations in the future. Later, the four-star General held talks with Inspector General of FAR and Commander of the South Zone, Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid, at the FAR General Staff headquarters. Talks between FAR Inspector General and USAFRICOM Commander focused on the various aspects of bilateral military cooperation and the regional security situation, exacerbated by the collusion of terrorist groups with separatist groups and networks active in irregular migration and human trafficking. The two officials commended the excellent relations between the Royal Armed Forces and the US Armed Forces, which are reflected in intense, frequent, and regular cooperation activities. AFRICOM Chiefs visit to Morocco comes few weeks after the meeting held in Agadir to prepare for the Africa Lion 2024 military exercise. The visit also comes amid security alerts issued by the the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Australia warning against travel to Tindouf city in Southern Algeria or to Polisario-controlled Sahrawi camps due to high risks of kidnappings in these zones, rocked by growing popular uprisings and protests against Algeria and the separatist movements leadership. Moroccos Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, and his Mauritanian peer, Mohamed Aly Ould Sidi Mohamed, launched at a meeting held, in Rabat on Tuesday, a roadmap for strengthening bilateral cooperation in infrastructure and ports. The meeting examined the means to launch structuring projects which will have a positive impact in Mauritania, in particular the transport network between Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. It also focused on carrying out a technical study relating to the Nouakchott-Nouadhibou road, laying the foundations of a strong partnership between the two countries in public works, as well as participation in the construction of a number of engineering structures in Nouakchott to streamline traffic in the Mauritanian capital, the Mauritanian official told the media at the end of the meeting, that is also part of preparations for the Moroccan-Mauritanian High Joint Commission, The meeting was an opportunity to highlight the brotherly relations between the two countries and the importance to further consolidate them, through the exchange of technical expertise and the expansion of the partnership between the Moroccan Public Laboratory for Tests and Studies (LPEE) and the Mauritanian National Laboratory for Public Works (LNTP). These talks are meant to further strengthen friendly relations and boost economic cooperation between the two countries, Baraka told the media, pointing out that this meeting was an opportunity to launch a roadmap for strengthening bilateral cooperation in infrastructure and ports. King Mohammed VI hosted in Rabat on Wednesday a luncheon in honor of the President of the Spanish government, Pedro Sanchez, and his accompanying delegation that included Foreign Affairs Minister Jose Manuel Albares. Besides the Head of the Moroccan Government, Aziz Akhannouch, who presided over the luncheon, other members of the delegation accompanying Sanchez, Speaker of the House of Representatives Rachid Talbi Alami, Minister of the Interior Abdelouafi Laftit, Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita, and Moroccos Ambassador to Spain Mrs. Karima Benyaich took part in the function. The President of the Spanish government, Pedro Sanchez, arrived in Morocco earlier on Wednesday on an official visit to the Kingdom, his first to the North African Kingdom since his government took office in January. The President of the Spanish Government wrote on his X account upon arrival in Rabat that relations with our neighbor, friend, and strategic partner are at their best moment in decades. This official visit gives a new impetus to our cooperation in all areas and consolidates a model of constructive neighborhood based on trust and mutual respect, he added. During his official trip to Morocco, Pedro Sanchez will hold talks with senior Moroccan officials, including his counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch. Pedro Sanchezs previous official visit to Morocco dates back to February 2, 2023, when he co-chaired with Akhannouch the 12th high-level meeting between the two countries. Sources from the Spanish government highlighted, according to the Spanish official news agency EFE, the importance of this trip, which comes at the beginning of the legislature presided over by Sanchez. The aim is to further strengthen the excellent nature of bilateral relations between the two countries. This position was expressed last December in Rabat by the Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, who, during the visit of his Spanish counterpart to Rabat, stated that relations with Spain have never reached such a level of strength, solidity, and trust. This stage of the bilateral relationship was sealed during last years High-Level Meeting, which was preceded the previous year by Sanchezs meeting with King Mohammed VI in April 2022 in Rabat. The 2022 visit followed the letter sent by the Prime Minister to the Sovereign, in which the Spanish government expressed its support for the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty for the Saharan provinces. This plan was endorsed by Spain as the most serious, credible, and realistic approach to resolve the Sahara conflict. This meeting highlighted by the adoption of the Moroccan-Spanish Roadmap that unleashed energies in several areas of cooperation. Actually, since then, strategic and mutually advantageous relations have been continuously consolidated at all levels, making of these relations a model partnership, guided by common interests, and an exemplary cooperation based on understanding, neighborliness, and mutual respect. The new momentum in bilateral relations also boosted economic exchanges, consolidating Spains position as Moroccos leading trading partner. In 2023, the total volume of Moroccan-Spanish trade reached 17.4 billion, up +7% compared with 2022. Morocco stands as a beacon of security and cooperation in the region, U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley, AFRICOM Commander, said Wednesday in Rabat. It is an honor to have been hosted by a nation that stands as a beacon of security and cooperation in the region, the US military official told the press following his talks with officials from the Royal Armed Forces (FAR). Moroccos commitment to regional stability is exemplary, and its leadership in fostering security cooperation is unparalleled, he underlined, highlighting the robust military partnership between the United States and Morocco, which is a testament to our shared values and dedication to peace and prosperity. Through years of collaboration and joint efforts, our relationship has only strengthened, he said, underlining that the solid bond between the Moroccan military and U.S. Africa Command serves as a cornerstone for stability in the region. The US military official who recalling that Moroccos hospitality has extended to hosting major military exercises, such as African Lion, the largest joint military exercise in Africa, noted that these exercises not only enhance our military capabilities but also reinforce our shared commitment to collective security. U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley said, when tackling future cooperation prospects, he is confident that bilateral partnership will continue to thrive and grow. Together, we will work hand in hand to confront the challenges that lie ahead and to build a more secure and prosperous future for all, he said, extending his thanks to Morocco, for its unwavering commitment to peace, security and cooperation and its leadership that sets a shining example for the entire region. The four-star general held separate meetings, on Wednesday, with Minister in charge of National Defense Administration, bdeltif Loudyi, and Inspector General of FAR and Commander of the South Zone, Lieutenant General Mohammed Berrid. During the talks, which were attended by US Ambassador to Rabat, Puneet Talwar, both parties particularly noted the excellent relations between the Royal Armed Forces and the US army which are reflected in intense and regular cooperation activities. Their military cooperation has been consolidated by the contributions of the roadmap for defense cooperation 2020-2030. Great Plains Health will have to wait another year to seek partial property tax exemptions on two of its formerly private clinics, Lincoln County commissioners ruled Tuesday. The County Board, sitting as the countys board of equalization, voted 4-1 that GPH didnt show good cause for filing an exemption application after the Dec. 31 legal deadline for its recently acquired Great Plains Health Ear, Nose and Throat clinic at 801 William Ave. Commissioners made the same finding regarding Great Plains Health Urgent Care, 220 W. Leota St. They voted 5-0 against considering the hospitals second quest for a partial exemption since it bought that once-private clinic in 2021. Both exemptions would have applied to 2024 tax bills, which will be set next fall. Had they been in place for 2023, the partial tax exemptions would have been worth a combined $19,258, based on figures provided by County Assessor Julie Stenger for a recent two-part Telegraph series on GPHs exemptions. County Board Chairman Joe Hewgley voted to allow GPHs late filing for the ENT clinic but joined the rest of the five-member board in opposing the similar Urgent Care request. Commissioners expect over the next few months to review existing and newly sought tax exemptions for charitable, religious, educational or cemetery purposes. State law says full applications must be submitted in years divisible by four, with streamlined renewal applications allowed otherwise. But it also says its up to county boards to decide whether late applications can be considered. GPH officials werent present to discuss their requests, which sought an 87.2% exemption for the portion of the ENT clinic they run directly. The rest is leased to a private health care provider. Stenger told commissioners that the hospital closed Nov. 1, two months before the filing deadline, on its purchase of the ENT clinic. GPH officials in a letter cited the purchases lateness in 2023 as the reason for the tardy filing, she said. It says they initially overlooked this as a step in the process? Thats their rationale? Commissioner Chris Bruns asked. Thats just what that says, Stenger replied. I dont think theyre out of practice doing this, Bruns said. I just find it interesting that they initially overlooked this step in the process. Stenger reminded commissioners that they voted Jan. 29 to allow North Platte Opportunity Center to file a late exemption request on recently purchased real estate. But that deal closed Dec. 28, just three days before the state deadline, she added. Bruns and Commissioners Jerry Woodruff, Micaela Wuehler and Kent Weems voted against considering the late ENT exemption request. GPH leaders also asked the County Board to allow consideration of a 45.5% 2024 exemption for the Urgent Care clinic, bought by the hospital in May 2021. Commissioners that August rejected a 48% exemption application that reflected the majority of its space wasnt being directly used for GPH health services. That extra space now is being remodeled for lease to a home medical equipment firm, Stenger said. A letter with the hospitals 2024 Urgent Care application, she said, claims it was omitted when filing the rest of their applications. But GPH didnt seek an exemption for Urgent Care in either 2022 or 2023, she added. The hospital owns 22 parcels in North Platte, half of which are partly or fully exempted from property taxes. Existing exemptions were worth a minimum of $318,697 in 2023 taxes, according to The Telegraphs analysis of current or most recent known taxable values. GPH in October opened its Oak Street Medical Building on two parcels that have been fully taxable since their 2004 purchase. Hospital leaders told The Telegraph last month they would seek a full 2024 exemption on those parcels, which would be worth a total of $98,244 based on 2023 tax figures. In other business Tuesday, commissioners approved a memorandum of understanding with the Nebraska Administrative Office of the Courts to install state-purchased computer equipment upgrades in the courthouses county and district courtrooms. County Court Clerk Magistrate Annette Shafer said the improvements would allow judges, lawyers, court witnesses and even defendants to appear remotely via Zoom meetings. Members of the public potentially could watch proceedings that way as well, she added. The state court system will own the new equipment through a five-year warranty period, after which its ownership will be turned over to the county. West central Nebraska counties are among the last being upgraded statewide, Shafer said. Some commissioners expressed unhappiness with the state courts plans, noting that they had bought newer equipment as recently as the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic to help the courts keep functioning then. But Booker Boyer, the countys building and grounds supervisor, told them the state will require the upgrades within two to three years. If the county turns down the new equipment now, he added, itll have to pay for mandated upgrades later. Some of the existing county equipment will be reused in the conversion, Boyer added. Conversions of the county and district courtrooms to handle the computer upgrades will take place in May and June, Shafer said. Commissioners also: Approved a change order on the new Sutherland North River Bridge on Prairie Chase Road to use crushed asphalt instead of clay as a subbase for the approaches to the new bridge. Highway Superintendent Jason Schultz said it wont cost the county extra because the asphalt is left over from milling up the old approaches to the 1914 Sutherland State Aid Bridge. Reappointed Boyer and Deputy County Clerk Melissa Wilson as management representatives and Assessors Office employee Angie Forbes as employee representative to the countys safety committee. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images Last week, the conspiracy that Joe Biden was accepting bribes from Hunter Bidens business dealings in Ukraine collapsed when the key witness an ex-FBI informant named Alexander Smirnov was charged by federal prosecutors for making it all up and lying to federal agents. A week later, the conspiracy is completely in shambles, and Smirnov is under arrest for the second time in two days. On Thursday afternoon, Smirnov, who had been granted bail by a federal judge after his initial arrest on Tuesday, was detained once again, reportedly while at his lawyers office. JUST IN: Alexander SMIRNOV, the former FBI informant charged with feeding false info about the Bidens, has been rearrested despite a magistrate's release order. His lawyers say he was arrested while at their offices for a legal consultation. https://t.co/zrAK327yyZ pic.twitter.com/m61ZvWPn5C Kyle Cheney (@kyledcheney) February 22, 2024 It is unclear who ordered Smirnovs second arrest, which was on the same charges as the first; his lawyers are arguing for his release. On Tuesday, federal prosecutors filed a detention memo in court arguing that Smirnov, who provided intelligence on Russia to the U.S., was also being played by the Kremlin. Smirnov admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden, prosecutors said. They also claimed that Smirnov has boasted of extensive and extremely recent contact with Russian intelligence and that he had longstanding connections to Russian officials, including one who was allegedly responsible for coordinating assassination efforts abroad. Prosecutors cited these connections as one of the main reasons they believed Smirnov was a flight risk: The Russians could spirit Smirnov overseas if he were released on bail. Nevertheless, he was granted bail on the condition that he wear a GPS monitor and surrender his two passports. Smirnov was charged with lying to the FBI when he told them in 2020 that the Bidens accepted bribes. (The story went that the Ukrainian energy firm that Hunter advised years ago paid him and his father, who was then the vice-president, to pressure Kyiv into dropping an investigation into the company.) In 2023, according to prosecutors, Smirnov offered up a new story about Hunter this time furnished by people associated with Russian intelligence. He relayed to the FBI that Moscows spy services had acquired kompromat on Hunter by recording cell-phone conversations he once had while inside a Ukrainian club. (This is false, prosecutors said, because Hunter has never been in Ukraine.) Furthermore, prosecutors said Smirnov admitted to meeting with Russian intelligence as recently as December, when they supposedly kept feeding him dirt on the presidents son. What this shows is that the misinformation he is spreading is not confined to 2020, they wrote. In the filing, prosecutors also claimed that Smirnov had the intention of meeting with one of these officials on his upcoming planned overseas travel and that there was a serious risk he will flee. Smirnov is being prosecuted by the office of special counsel David Weiss, who was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland to dig into alleged crimes by the presidents son. (Hunter Biden has since been charged with crimes related to tax evasion and gun possession.) On Tuesday, Hunters attorney, Abbe Lowell, filed a memo in response to the explosive claims. Lowell argued that the Smirnov allegations infected Weisss case against Biden and accused the special counsels investigation into the presidents son of following Smirnov down his rabbit hole of lies. 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. Will the lights of the Capitol go out at long last? Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: Getty Again and again during this accursed 2024 federal fiscal year, a gridlocked Congress has come close to, but then narrowly sidestepped, a government shutdown. Enactment of the first stopgap spending bill at the very beginning of FY 2024 led directly to the removal of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who defied hard-core conservatives by negotiating the stopgap measure with Democrats and relying on their votes to pass it. McCarthys successor, Mike Johnson, got a bit of a mulligan from his fellow MAGA devotees during his own first shutdown crisis in November, and he did manage to mix things up by dividing the necessary stopgap measures into two bills, making it look a bit less like just business as usual. And he more or less stumbled into an extension of these dual stopgap bills in January with a general understanding that it was the last time the can would be kicked down the road. Unsurprisingly, given the deeply divided power centers of this Congress, all this extra time has not led to bipartisan agreement over the regular appropriations bills that are supposed to be individually enacted (though the last time it happened was in 1996) instead of being passed in batches or in one big omnibus bill, which conservatives claim to abhor even as they keep going along with the practice. So something has to give on March 1, when the first stopgap measure expires, and then on March 8, when funding for the rest of the federal government expires. According to Axios, a shutdown seems more likely than not: Behind closed doors, House Republicans have shifted from optimistically cautious to expecting a government shutdown, Axios has learned. Why it matters: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will have to choose in coming weeks between a fight with Democrats that threatens a shutdown, or a deal with Democrats that threatens his job. People are predicting a shutdown even if its just for a few days, a GOP lawmaker recently told Axios. The House Freedom Caucus types who put the gavel in Johnsons hands and control his fate have three distinct objectives in these funding fights. First, they want to avoid complicity in what they regard as runaway federal spending, which means they will virtually force Johnson to seek Democratic votes to pass anything. Second, theyre looking to obtain votes on policy riders that reflect their ideological views, particularly on hot-button issues like abortion and transgender rights. And third, they want to secure an actual reduction in nondefense spending. On this final point, theres an approaching deadline that can give them a victory claim. Under the terms of the debt-limit deal McCarthy made with Senate Democrats last year, there will be an across-the-board one percent cut in appropriations if Congress is still relying on a continuing resolution rather than regular appropriations bills to fund the federal government beyond April. That could be a lot better for conservatives than any deal they could secure with other Republicans and with Democrats. If these across-the-board cuts wind up becoming the goal for House conservatives, they could well force a shutdown in March that would be replaced with a year-long CR once the pressure for funding became intolerable. In the meantime, they would be free to posture over policy riders they know Democrats will reject in order to deflect the blame for inaction. The question we cannot answer yet is whether Johnson would go along with a shutdown followed by robo-cuts strategy, even though it would make him look feckless while alarming the swing-district House Republicans who fear a government shutdown might cook their gooses in November. He may not have a lot of choice in the matter if House Freedom Caucus folk renew their threats to take away his gavel just as they did McCarthys, as Punchbowl News reports: Johnson effectively has three choices right now to avoid a partial shutdown on March 1 He can push for a stopgap bill to give appropriators more time to craft spending bills; he can put a full-year CR on the floor; or he can try to pass compromise bills with Democrats. Two of those options a stopgap or compromise bills could cost Johnson the speakership. With Democrats very unlikely to back the full-year measure that would embrace across-the-board spending cuts, conservatives may force Johnson to wade into a shutdown that would eventually produce the results they want. These are people far less likely than Johnson to fear a shutdown, as they made clear in a recent meeting with the Speaker: [Byron] Donalds, who was particularly animated in the meeting, told Johnson he doesnt think Republicans would lose a shutdown fight with President Joe Biden because Barack Obama actually had control over the bully pulpit. Joe Biden does not. So this time around, Johnson, the Mr. Magoo of the 118th Congress, may stumble into a government shutdown with his eyes wide shut. The freshly impeached secretary of Homeland Security. Photo: Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images One of the more embarrassing incidents involving the regularly embarrassed House Speaker Mike Johnson was the fumbled impeachment of Homeland Security secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on February 7. Thanks to a botched whip count, the resolution failed initially; it was brought back up and passed by a single vote on February 14. This phony-baloney measure wound up being a sort of poisoned valentine to Joe Biden, since the only basis for Mayorkass dismissal is that he followed the administrations polices on border security. But any congressional impeachment measure triggers a Senate trial, pointless or not. So the Senates Democratic leaders are mulling what sort of contemptuous treatment they should mete out to the notion that Mayorkas should be solemnly adjudged for high crimes and misdemeanors. Its not enough for Democrats to say the resolution is dead on arrival in the Senate, since the same was pretty obviously true of the two impeachments of Donald Trump that the House passed in 2019 and 2021. But they are not obliged to give Republicans an extended high-profile forum for 2024 messaging blasting Biden for an alleged conspiracy to throw open the southern border, inviting criminals and terrorists to pour across open borders and quickly become welfare recipients and loyal Democrat voters. The most peremptory treatment Senate Democrats could give the impeachment resolution would involve a motion to dismiss the charges, requiring a simple majority vote, as Politico reports: A motion to dismiss the articles of impeachment against Mayorkas would not be without precedent. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) attempted to use a motion to dismiss at former President Donald Trumps second impeachment trial, but the vote failed. Its more likely, says Politico, that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer will observe the trappings of a trial while making sure it ends quickly: Senate Democratic leadership has already laid out some plans for the trial. Majority Leader Chuck Schumers office said House impeachment managers will present the articles of impeachment to the Senate after this weeks recess. Senators will be sworn in as jurors the next day and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) will preside over the proceedings. Schumer himself has called the Mayorkas impeachment a sham and insisted House Republicans failed to present any evidence of anything resembling an impeachable offense. Its well known that a lot of Senate Republicans are embarrassed by the whole impeachment effort. North Dakota senator Kevin Cramer went so far as to call it the worst, dumbest exercise and use of time. But unsurprisingly, there are some conservatives who view a trial as an opportunity to twist and shout on border security and perhaps even make Mitch McConnell uncomfortable, as Spectrum News noted: In a letter to McConnell on Tuesday, 13 Senate Republicans, led by Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Ted Cruz of Texas, wrote that multiple briefings by McConnells staff have also indicated that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Democratic lawmakers intend to dispense with the articles of impeachment by simply tabling both individually. We call on you to join us in our efforts to jettison this approach by Democrats to shirk their Constitutional duty, ensure that the Senate conducts a proper trial, and that every Senator, Republican and Democrat, adjudicates this matter when the Senate returns, the Republicans wrote. Lee and Cruz, Axios reported, have met with the Senate parliamentarian to press for a ruling that a full Senate trial of Mayorkas is required. No matter how this maneuvering turns out, its reasonably clear that Republicans are more confident about their border-security message than the opposition party. If Democrats really believed the border-security deal that Republicans killed on Donald Trumps orders gives Biden and the party the upper hand on this issue, youd figure theyd welcome the kind of debate a Mayorkas impeachment trial would create. Its more likely theyll provide the absolute minimum time necessary for the Senate proceedings and move on to other business, as Tim Kaine suggested to Politico: We view it as a stunt, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) said of Senate Democrats outlook on the Mayorkas impeachment. I bet the preference is going to be to spend as little time on it as possible so we can focus on [spending], the [national security aid debate] and then I think we also want to take up the Houses bipartisan tax reform bill. Nothing to see here, folks. By Nam Hyun-woo Kim Seong-jin, a former presidential secretary under the previous Moon Jae-in administration, is seeking a seat in the National Assembly in the upcoming April 10 general elections, saying President Yoon Suk Yeol's economic policies are not improving people's livelihoods. "Public livelihood is about how people are actually living their lives with the money they have, and improving public livelihood means addressing people's economic instability," Kim said in an interview with The Korea Times. "A nation should collect an appropriate amount of tax and use it for guaranteeing basic living standards for those suffering from income instability, housing insecurity and other economic difficulties. But the current Yoon administration is doing the opposite, sticking to the outdated concept of the trickle-down effect." Kim is a lawyer who spent much of his career as a pro bono attorney for major civic groups, such as People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy and Lawyers for a Democratic Society, also known as Minbyun. After serving as a presidential secretary for civil and social agenda in 2017, he focused on working for the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). Though he describes himself as an expert in economic policies and living costs, he is better known as a legal team member of the DPK's fight against the Yoon administration. He drew media attention when he applied as a DPK preliminary candidate for Seoul's Seongbuk B constituency during the past winter. During the screening process, the DPK postponed a decision on his appropriateness as a candidate three times due to suspicion that he might be underreporting his wealth. He reported having no car, no home and financial assets were deemed too small for a lawyer whose spouse is also a lawyer. "It seems that the party had doubts because a lawyer couple owned no home or car and had very little financial assets," Kim said. "I thought spending my time on making money was not what I should pursue. So I spent more time on pro bono work for Minbyun and tried to play my role in improving public livelihood within the field of politics." Kim is one of the early-stage architects of the 2012 government regulation obliging major discount chains, such as E-Mart, Lotte Mart and Homeplus, to close their stores on the second and fourth Sundays of every month to help support traditional markets and small businesses. The regulation was scrapped last month, following the government's decision citing the necessity to improve the convenience of shoppers and data showing traditional markets' sales did not improve after the regulation. However, civic groups say it is attributable to the growth of online shopping, and discount stores' sales dropped sharply during the same period. "We endorsed the program because the Distribution Industry Development Act allowed conglomerates to establish large stores without considering their impact on nearby mom-and-pop shop owners," Kim said. "Also, the regulation was aimed at guaranteeing rights to rest for workers at those discount stores." "The Yoon government is trying to undo the program, saying it is for improving public livelihood. This leaves me no option but to suspect that the government is improving conditions for conglomerates, not the general public." Kim added that helping large conglomerates is not a viable strategy to drive economic growth and eventually improve the economic status of the general public, saying, "Chaebols are not making investments because there is no innovation." "The breakthrough for the country's economic growth is innovation, and it requires policies that can accelerate it," Kim said. "So far, [past] governments had endured capital expenses as part of their policies to drive innovation, and this resulted in Korea having its current industrial status. But now the [Yoon] government is making tax cuts for the haves and large conglomerates and compensating the declining tax revenue by cutting research and development expenses," he said, referring to 4.6 trillion won of budget cuts on state-led R&D projects in the government's budget this year. The lawyer said that those economic failures could be seen as Yoon abandoning his constitutional duty as presidentand failing to address political matters. He said voters should help anti-Yoon political parties, including the DPK, to secure more than 200 out of 300 National Assembly seats in the National Assembly. "I understand how demeaning it is for hardworking individuals to struggle in a flawed system that has been neglected," he said. "Helping people to be more confident in their economic activities is the goal of policies for livelihoods. Creating an atmosphere where the economically disadvantaged feel less intimidated by the powerful in issues like income security, housing, and healthcare is what the country's politicians should strive for." Photo: Bloomberg via Getty Images In 2022, New York attorney general Letitia James alleged in a lawsuit that Donald Trump and his children knowingly inflated the value of Trumps assets in order to receive more favorable loans from banks and insurers. After Judge Arthur Engoron handed down hundreds of million dollars in penalties against the former president last week, a victorious James suggested that those same assets could now be seized if Trump is unable to pay up. If he does not have funds to pay off the judgment, then we will seek judgment-enforcement mechanisms in court, and we will ask the judge to seize his assets, James said in an interview with ABC News. James raised the possibility that some of Trumps famed properties in New York could potentially be seized in order to fulfill the ruling. We are prepared to make sure that the judgment is paid to New Yorkers, and yes, I look at 40 Wall Street each and every day, James said, referring to Trumps Financial District building, which is next door to the attorney generals own office. The threat of the potential loss of the former presidents iconic buildings like Trump Tower or 40 Wall Street is not a new one. In an earlier summary judgment, Engoron ordered the business certificates for Trumps companies be canceled, an action that couldve imperiled the future of his corporate empire and ownership of his namesake properties. But the judge ultimately declined to pursue that route in his final ruling. In an interview with NPR, Forbes senior editor Dan Alexander suggested that Trump will likely find a way to come up with the money rather than see his properties change hands. I dont think that thats a likely thing. I think that were going to see him put up the cash or secure a bond or other type of loan to do that, he said. In his ruling against Trump last week, Engoron barred the former president from running a New York corporation for three years and levied a $355 million penalty against him. Trump is also on the hook for approximately $100 million in pre-judgment interest. Then theres the matter of post-judgment interest, which will tack on $87,500 daily until the fine is paid. Trump has vowed to appeal the ruling, but has 30 days from the ruling to put up either cash or a bond while the matter is worked out in court. And those fines are on top of the penalties he is expected to pay writer E. Jean Carroll in her two cases against him. Last May, Trump was found liable for both sexual abuse and defamation against Carroll and was ordered to pay her $5 million in damages. In January, a jury ordered Trump to pay $83.3 million in damages to Carroll in a subsequent defamation case. Trump has railed against the ruling in the days after it was revealed, calling Engoron and James crooked and corrupt, respectively, on social media. In response to Trumps rhetoric, James said that he appeals to the worst in our society. During a Fox News town hall held Tuesday, the former president strangely invoked the fate of Alexey Navalny, the Russian opposition leader who recently died in a penal colony, when asked how he intends to pay the penalty in the civil fraud case. Its a form of Navalny. It is a form of communism or fascism, he said. 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. Photo: Marcus McDonald Whether Im going for a walk, dancing at a festival, or meandering through the airport, I carry a fanny pack almost every day. I love how a fanny pack allows me to carry my essentials hands-free (I can fit my phone, water bottle, keys, money, and some teeny SPF into my favorite Dagne Dover fanny pack), while also keeping a close eye on them. And its a truly versatile accessory a fanny pack can be dressed up for date night, thrown on while hiking a mountain, or even used as a hands-free diaper bag. Call it a belt bag, bum bag, or a waist pack, Ive tested many options over the past two years. The best ones will be made of a sturdy material like polyester or neoprene, and can handle being stuffed full (and a little rain) as you run errands. Theyll also have been designed with convenience and security in mind I like my fanny packs with plenty of pockets and thoughtful organization, so I can keep track of my keys and money, and not have to entirely unpack the thing just to find a piece of gum. To find the most stylish (but still functional) fanny packs, my fellow Strategist writers and I tested several on trips, walks, and hikes. I then also asked more than a dozen fashionable people, including models, photographers, stylists, for their favorite fanny packs, too. If you dont want to scroll through all the options, you can click any of the links below to jump straight to the fanny pack that sounds right for you. And if youre looking for something a bit larger, read my guide to weekender bags and carry-ons. What were looking for Material The material will help determine the functionality of your fanny pack. Water-resistant ones like nylon and polyester will ensure your things stay dry. Leather and neoprene, which can be hand-washed with light detergents, are easier to clean. Ive noted the material of each fanny pack so you can pick the one thats right for you. Closure Whether it sits above your hips or across your chest, each fanny pack has a specific way it closes. A buckle closure is typical, but a few on this list are unique in their design. Strap length Most fanny packs have adjustable straps to tighten or loosen them to fit your size or activity needs. But some have a limit on how long they go, so Ive made note of that wherever I can. Best fanny pack overall Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack $95 Material: Neoprene | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 36 inches Ive been using this fanny pack for a year its become my go-to on daily walks. And while we at the Strategist love the neoprene backpacks, carry-ons, and work totes from Dagne Dover, I especially like the small details in this fanny pack. For example, the bags key clip. Im known for scrambling around my bag, sure that this time Ive lost my keys for good only to find them wedged between my SPF and claw clip. The key clip makes my keys easy to find right inside the bum bag, which also has an equally handy back pocket for cards. I also like how it holds its shape even when Ive stuffed it full of my essentials (it has a slightly spongy exterior, so it doesnt look skew-whiff with a water bottle inside.) Strategist editor Maxine Builder uses the brands fanny pack because its logo is hidden on the backside, in relatively small print, making it more discreet than her other fanny pack, the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. It also feels a little less sporty, so its a nice going out option, she adds. Its this versatility (its a day to night fanny pack) combined with the thoughtful touches, generous capacity, and squishy comfortable fit that make this my favorite fanny pack even with its higher price point considered. $95 at Dagne Dover Buy $95 at Nordstrom Buy Best less-expensive fanny pack Jansport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack From $22 Material: Polyester | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 50 inches Jansport is a reliably good brand. I used its backpacks for several years throughout college, and its fanny packs are made from the same 600-denier polyester that carted my books around school. Although its the cheapest bag on our list, its still just as durable as bags quadruple the price. And it comes in a nice range of colors and styles (including a lilac and camo). JanSport is known for its high-quality sports bags, agrees stylist and designer Alljahni Mack. It will add a beautiful splash of color to your outfit and is compact for an active day spent hiking or working out. The bag also has one of the longest straps of all the fanny packs listed here, so its a good choice if youre plus-size or broad-shouldered. From $22 at Amazon Buy $30 at JanSport Buy Best fanny pack for travel Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack 5L $69 $69 Material: Recycled polyester | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: Not listed I cant get enough of Patagonias Black Hole range. Ive named their duffel my favorite weekender bag for two years in a row, and their waist pack has all the features that I love in a smaller package. That is not to say, however, that the Patagonia waist pack is small. My first thought after receiving it is that it felt more like a sling than a fanny pack especially on my five foot five frame. Its both waxy and cushioned, which makes it water-resistant, but not so stiff that it doesnt fit comfortably against the body. It also has a five-liter capacity, and an additional pocket to stow a water bottle on the side (so you dont have to rummage through your belongings every time you want to take a sip). Theres also two pockets, one for smaller essentials like cards and keys, and the larger back pocket. This is where Charlotte Stone keeps training treats and doggy treats in it on daily walks with her two dogs. She describes the bag as ridiculously functional. $69 at REI Buy $69 at Patagonia Buy Best fanny pack for errands Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag $38 Material: Polyester and nylon | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 41.7 inches Lululemon makes some of my favorite gym bags, and like those larger bags, this belt bag maximizes function and style. There was a time it was perennially out of stock (its very popular with tweens), but now you can regularly get your hands on one of its 14 colorways. As well as a larger, front-facing pocket, it has a discreet back pocket which is great for storing a phone, some cash, or credit cards. Inside the main pocket there is also a mesh-pocket, so everything inside is easy to see without too much jiggling around. Builder finds the Lululemon branding on the front a little embarrassing at times, but its small enough to go unnoticed. She says that it fits all of her necessities for everyday errands, including a sunglasses case, wallet, phone, and car keys, and she can easily sling it across my chest. Plus, its fairly sturdy and water-resistant, so she can wear it in a rainstorm and not worry that anything will get soaked. $38 at Lululemon Buy Best surprisingly roomy fanny pack Baggu Fanny Pack $52 $52 Material: Nylon | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: Choice of either 34 or 45 inches I was surprised by how much fits inside the Baggu fanny pack. Inside its two pockets, theres space for a 16-ounce water bottle, a book, and your other fanny-pack essentials (think phone, keys, lip gloss). Photographer Jacq Harriet even told me that this bag can hold her chunky 35-mm. camera, and is strong enough too: Its made from a sturdy nylon. It holds pretty much everything, like a Mary Poppins never-ending bag, she says. It also comes in a massive range of eighteen colors, and is definitely my favorite-looking fanny pack of any on this list. (Ive got my eyes on the limited edition Hello Kitty pattern.) $52 at Amazon Buy $52 at Urban Outfitters Buy Best leather fanny pack Clare V. Fanny Pack $295 Material: Leather | Closure: Belt closure | Strap length: 2945 inches Ive heard lots about this fanny pack from Clare V. two of the people I interviewed name-checked it, and model Brooklyn Decker even recommended it to us as one of the things she cant live without. Instead of a buckle closure (like the Dagne and Dover model, for example), it closes like a belt with a simple gold buckle. It fits your phone, keys, wallet, sunglasses, and other little essentials like lip balm or minis. Decker got it as a gift from a friend and uses it whenever shes running around or just soaking up the great outdoors. Iva Pawling, the co-founder and CEO of Richer Poorer, owns it in three different colors and wears it daily: Clares designs are everyday gear with a hint of cool and whimsy, which make them perfect. $295 at Clare V. Buy $295 at Shopbop Buy Best fanny pack for parents Paravel Fold-Up Belt Bag $35 now 40% off $21 Photo: retailer Material: Nylon | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 2134 inches Parents, allow me to point you to this belt bag, which writer Sarah Hoover uses as a minimalist diaper bag. Hoover explains that, after her first baby, she discovered that, for day-to-day excursions, a fanny pack is far superior to any proper diaper bag. At first, she would carry two diapers, a Ziploc of wipes, and an extra onesie in the bag. But as her son has grown, her load has actually gotten lighter with more space to spare for her own essentials, like a ChapStick and credit cards (which she keeps in the front pouch of the fanny pack). Paravels pack, in its austerity and attention to smart design, goes well with jeans and simple dresses, but has a price that makes me not too worried if it ends up with a little baby puke on it, Hoover says. $21 at Shopbop Buy $35 at Amazon Buy Best (faux) leather fanny pack for parents Kibou Bag $98 Material: Vegan leather | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 3349 inches After being sent this diaper bagfanny pack combo by Kibou, it has become Strategist senior writer Lauren Ros go-to. While its technically meant to act as a compact replacement for a diaper bag it has space for diapers, a waterproof pocket for wipes, plus a built-in changing mat in the back she has begun using it as her everyday bag, she says. What makes it convenient for baby use is what makes it great for everyday life: Everything you need is easily accessible, and its small enough to not get in the way, she adds. Ro says she especially likes the pocket in the front with cardholders, which lets her grab her credit card without having to dig. She also likes that its made of easily wipeable vegan leather. Its just big enough to carry the absolute minimum: The main compartment fits my wallet (which is admittedly fat), phone, keys, a small bottle of hand sanitizer, lip balm, and a mask, she says. I take it everywhere, and its convenient for when I need to be hands-free, whether thats at the grocery store, chasing my toddler around the neighborhood, or at protests. $98 at Maisonette Buy $98 at Kibou Buy Best fanny pack for running FlipBelt $34 Material: Neoprene | Closure: No closure | Strap length: Strap in SXL Most runners want a fanny pack thats as sleek as can be. This bag from FlipBelt is just that. Its slim, and made from a firm neoprene that sits snugly around your hips (and doesnt move around while youre on the go). Its the right width to fit a phone and a few essentials, but not so bulky itll be an annoyance while youre running. It can also double up as an anti-theft fanny pack, says Molly Fergus, who is the general manager of TripSavvy. Ive considered using this as a money belt when Im in crowded areas. It could easily hide underneath a baggy shirt, so your passport, cash, and CDC card perhaps the most valuable item of the three are safely hidden, she explains. $34 at Amazon Buy $34 at Amazon Buy Best larger fanny pack for running Janji Multipass Sling Bag $56 $56 Material: PU-coated ripstop | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: Not listed If you need a little bit more room, you might be better suited to this larger but still svelte sling bag from Janji. Frequent runner and Strategist writer Jeremy Rellosa told me its the best thing he bought in the whole of 2022. Its more convenient than a running vest, while still having enough space to store keys, a phone, and running essentials like a water bottle, a spare T-shirt, and some snacks. One of my favorite things to do in New York is to go on a long run with friends to some food destination, eat there, and then take the train back home. This pack is perfect for those excursions. The bag also has a hidden cross-body strap, meaning it can transform from a fanny pack to a sling worn on the back whichever way you prefer to wear it. $56 at Janji Buy Best fanny pack for festivals and raves Carhartt Waist Pack $30 Material: Polyester | Closure: Buckle closure | Strap length: 54 inches I went to three festivals last summer and a fanny pack was essential. I wanted something durable and showerproof summertime or not, I was still in Britain. This Carhartt waist pack ticked both boxes and was roomy enough for my phone, keys, money, snacks, and a little tube of sunscreen. You can hook water bottles and a packable rain jacket onto two loops sewn onto the bag, too. Its since seen me through several raves and events. Though you can cram a lot inside the waist pack, its not cumbersome on a busy dance floor and looks understated thanks to its simple slate-gray polyester shell. $30 at Amazon Buy $30 at Zappos Buy Our experts Gabby Beckford, travel writer Maxine Builder, Strategist editor Brooklyn Decker, actress and model Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe, content creator of Twenty Something Molly Fergus, general manager of TripSavvy Jacq Harriet, photographer Sarah Hoover, writer and art historian Alljahni Mack, stylist and designer Dominique Pariso, Strategist writer Iva Pawling, co-founder and CEO of Richer Poorer Lauren Ro, Strategist senior writer Jeremy Rellosa, Strategist writer Charlotte Stone, womens-footwear designer get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. 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. The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. Chemical Safety and Hazard Communication Standards for Pharmaceuticals To meet the demands of millions relying on prescription medications, the pharmaceutical industry must prioritize enhancing chemical safety and hazard communication standards to protect its workers effectively. The pharmaceutical industry supports millions of people taking prescription medications daily. It must function efficiently to keep up with demand, which starts with protecting its workers. Chemical safety and hazard communication standards for drugs can always improve. These are the primary ways people working in the sector can protect themselves and their team members. What Is the Hazard Communication Standard? OSHA created the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to ensure chemical manufacturers placed hazard labels on products and communicated protective measures to their employees. Its much easier to avoid accidents if everyone knows what theyre working with, how to handle it and what the health risks would be if exposure occurred. Ways to Improve Hazard Communications with Team Members Although OSHA regulatory compliance is mandatory, pharmaceutical leaders can always improve hazard communications with their teams. These ideas make safety information more well-known outside annual training sessions. 1. Create Updated Safety Data Sheets OSHA requires distributors and manufacturers to utilize HCS data sheets on all chemical products. They make safety standards and response strategies easily visible, but the information can become outdated if teams dont make new ones with each companywide manufacturing update. Reviewing and revising data sheets regularly can become a part of any pharmaceutical leadership teams schedule. Theyll prevent lapses in things like hazard identification after chemical handling or machinery changes. 2. Make Labels More Informative HCS labels are another opportunity for improved communication standards for pharmaceutical companies. The labels are part of OSHAs ongoing effort to make safety efforts visible to everyone in a chemical manufacturing or processing environment. Team leaders can create more informative labels by including chemical-specific response plans to go with the already pictured hazard pictograms. Individuals making products with a commonly used chemical like dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) may feel comfortable around the organic solvent. Familiarity can cause lapses in remembering safety details. Team members may take safety precautions more seriously if a corresponding HCS label for DMSO containers includes specific wording regarding the skin irritation that occurs after exposure. New Jersey Steel Fabrication Company Faces OSHA Violations The agency has proposed penalties of $348,683 to Kenric Steel LLC. Federal inspectors cite local steel company for multiple safety violations OSHA has levied fines totaling $348,683 against Kenric Steel LLC, a New Jersey-based steel fabrication company, following an investigation into the company's failure to protect employees. According to a release dated Feb. 20, OSHA's investigation launched at a facility in Millville, New Jersey, on July 26, 2023 following a complaint. Inspectors identified 11 violations, including four willful and seven serious violations. These include a failure to medically evaluate new employees required to wear respirators, conduct annual inspections of overhead cranes and ensure the proper use of welding screens. Additionally, Kenric Steel neglected to train new hires on chemical safety, ensure grounding and bonding of spray finishing processes, label containers, maintain safety data sheets for chemicals, and install the correct circuit breakers for operating lights. A few months before our inspection, Kenric Steel hired a safety consultant who identified multiple safety and health hazards at the Millville fabrication shop. However, the company failed to correct the hazards, which is unacceptable, OSHA Area Director Paula Dixon-Roderick in Marlton, New Jersey, said in a statement. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe and healthful workplace for all workers. Kenric Steel then had the option to comply with the citations, request an informal conference with OSHA, or challenge the findings. The company chose to contest the citations on Feb. 7. Back in 2022, the oil industry became the target of multiple attacks from high-ranking politicians because of the record profits Big Oil reported for that year. It was the year of Russias invasion of Ukraine, which had led to a surge in oil and gas priceswhich in turn led to a rise in Big Oil profits as the developed world got a stark reminder that energy security is not a given. It also got a stark reminder that oil and gas are still the basis for the normal functioning of any economy. President Biden accused the industry of war profiteering and threatened a windfall profit tax. The UK government and several European ones made good on their own windfall tax threats and implemented the new levy. Now, nonprofit Global Witness has tallied the profits once again, issuing a report that Big Oil made more than $250 billion since the war began. When Big Tech made massive profits during the first year of the pandemic, Big Tech got a lot of happy shareholders and zero reactions from the political world. When Big Oil made massive profits because a substantial part of the world realized it couldnt take its oil and gas supply for granted, it suddenly became a target for accusations of war profiteering. Related: Russia Loses Appeal Against $50 Billion Payout to Ex-Yukos Shareholders The five biggest oil companies in the worldBP, Shell, TotalEnergies, Exxon, and Chevrondistributed some $200 billion among its shareholders, Global Witness said in its report, finding it necessary for some reason to add in the same sentence that while they were doing this, more than 10,000 civilians died in the Ukraine war. Trying to blame Big Oil for everything has become standard practice for many nonprofit organizations. Suggesting a potentially causal link between Big Oils financial performance during the war-caused European energy crunch is taking things a bit too far. What the crunch actually brought to light was the fundamental importance of hydrocarbons for the energy security of Europe or, indeed, any other part of the world. What the crunch made clear was that despite Europes efforts in enforcing a transition from hydrocarbons to low-carbon electricity, oil and gas, even coal, were still indispensable for the continents energy system. The price surge was proof enough that these commodities remained vital despite attempts by the political elites to get rid of them. Two years later, the situation has changedand it has changed as a result of that crunch that brought Big Oils shareholders $20 billion in returns. The supply crunch and the resulting demand destruction did not go away in 2022. The demand destruction continued even as both oil and gas prices subsided to much more palatable levelsbecause Europe had to switch from pipeline gas from Russia to LNG from the Middle East and the United States. And it was discovered that LNG is a bit more expensive than pipeline gas. It also discovered expensive energy does not make for strong economic growth. Now, the biggest economy in the European Union is in a recession, and so is the UK, the worlds sixth-largest economy. In both cases, the roots of the recession can be traced back to the energy crunch that actually began before the February 2022 entry of Russian troops into eastern Ukraine. It began in the autumn of 2021 when the first signs of a tight natural gas market emerged. Big Oil made much lower profits in 2023 than it did in 2022. Nobody spoke a word about itjust like nobody said a word when the same Big Oil lost billions during the lockdown-driven oil demand slump in 2020. Apparently, Big Oil is only worth talking about when the supply and demand situation leads to stronger profits. Its either accusations of profiteering or grim warnings about stranded assets when the world moves on from oil and gas to better energy sources. It must be frustrating to see this move not happening despite all the effortand hundreds of billions of dollarsthat are being put into it. ADVERTISEMENT By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met in Munich on February 17 with the mediation of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. According to Azerbaijan's APA news agency, Scholz left the room at some point and the meeting continued in bilateral format. Afterwards, the sides expressed satisfaction with the meeting but offered few specifics on a way forward. It was the first meeting between the two leaders since last July, though they did have a brief encounter at a CIS summit in December. One of the main reasons for their failure to meet has been disagreement over who should mediate, particularly since Azerbaijan's seizure of Nagorno-Karabakh in September and the exodus of the region's Armenian population. Armenia has favored mediation by the EU and U.S. while Azerbaijan first expressed preference for authoritarian regional powers Russia and Turkey, and then began rejecting all outside mediation. The sides have met in bilateral format several times, however, to discuss border delimitation in November and agree a prisoner exchange in December. Armenia has not explicitly rejected bilateral talks on a comprehensive peace deal, though its preference for Western mediation is evident as it seeks closer ties with the EU and U.S. and attempts to move away from its traditional strategic partner Russia. The Aliyev-Pashinyan-Scholz meeting took place just four days after Azerbaijan killed four Armenian soldiers in what it called a "revenge operation" for the wounding of an Azerbaijani serviceman. And the previous day, February 16, Pashinyan had said that his government's "analysis" showed that Azerbaijan was preparing for a full-scale war. After the meeting, on February 18, Pashinyan said the two countries' foreign ministers would meet soon for peace talks. It is not clear whether or not any mediators will be present. Aliyev, meanwhile, called his meeting with Pashinyan "constructive and useful." He declared that there is "de facto peace in the region" and expressed readiness to sign a peace treaty. At the same time, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry in a February 18 statement reiterated Baku's demand that Armenia revise its constitution and other laws to remove all reference to Nagorno-Karabakh. Following the Munich meeting, Olaf Scholz stated that the sides agreed to resolve their differences "without violence." No details about any specific agreements were made public. The meeting took place within the framework of the Munich Security Conference. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Aliyev and Pashinyan separately, expressing support for the peace process. ADVERTISEMENT While the two countries' leaders maintain that the main principles of the peace treaty have been agreed, the sides voice disagreement over almost all of the parts of the deal, including the opening of the transport links and border delimitation/demarcation. The mentioned principles include Armenia and Azerbaijan recognizing each other's territorial integrity, with the latest USSR and Almaty declaration maps being used for the demarcation of the borders and opening of the regional infrastructure based on the respective country's legislation and jurisdiction. Baku, however, demands a corridor through Armenia connecting mainland Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan to be controlled by Russian border troops and without Armenian customs or border checks. Via Eurasianet.org More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: An armed group has taken control of and shut down Libyas Al-Zawiya refinery and two oil complexes, demanding unpaid salaries and other benefits, Libya media report. The armed group, the Petroleum Facilities Guard (PFG), said in a Tuesday video statement that the refinery operators have five days to comply with their requests or face more closures from other PFG members at key facilities around Libya. The Mellitah and Misrata oil complexes have also been shut down by the PFG. This latest shutdown comes only a month after the reopening of Sharara, the largest oilfield in Libya, which was shut down by protesters earlier this year. The protest come amid an ongoing test of the legitimacy of the interim prime minister of the UN-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU), Abdulhamid Dbeibah. The protesters said in the video statement that they do not belong to any political faction, and refuse to transfer the PFG members to other security services unless they are given their full legal rights. "Despite all the officials' promises which all failed, perhaps the latest of which was the instructions of the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, to consider the situation of the PFG and its members, grant them their rights, implement the decisions regarding their financial dues, and restore their full rights, there was no adherence to any of those instructions," the statement said, as reported by the Libya Update. The Mellitah oil complex is the only hub for exporting Libyan gas to Italy via the Greenstream pipeline. According to the Libyan National Oil Company (NOC), as of last year, the total capacity of all refineries in Libya is around 380,000 barrels per day. The Zawiya refinery can handle 120,000 bpd. ADVERTISEMENT On January 3, protesters shut down Libyas Sharara oilfield, forcing the NOC to declare force majeure on the 300,000-bpd field. The force majeure was lifted on January 23. Protests also closed the field down for two days in July last year following the arrest of an official who attempted to become the head of Libyas central bank. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Australias energy major Santos reported net earnings of $1.42 billion for 2024, a drop of 42% on 2022, which was a deeper one than analysts polled by Reuters had expected. The companys stock declined following the financial report, as it also said its revenues had declined substantially in 2023 as had earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, depletion, exploration, evaluation, and impairment. Cash flow was also down substantially, by 42%. A certain decline in financial performance last year was expected from the energy industry after the record-breaking 2022 that resulted from strong price rallies in both oil and gas. However, it appears that the extent of the decline in the case of Santos had investors disappointed. Despite the decline in earnings, Santos declared a higher dividend for 2023. It also said that its Barossa gas project, whose progress has been difficult after a court injunction delayed construction work. The injunction was granted following an application that demanded from Santos to revise its environmental plan for Barossa. The project is now slated to start producing in the third quarter of next year, Santos said in its earnings release. It would add 1.8 million tons to Santos annual LNG export capacity, the company also said. The gas from Barossa will be fed into the Darwin LNG facility, with more than two-thirds of the pipeline for the purpose already complete, Santos also said. The Australian company was earlier this year in talks with sector player Woodside regarding a potential tie-up. The talks broke off earlier this month, however, after the two failed to agree on the price Woodside would have to pay for Santos. The development was not unexpected, especially since some investors voiced concern that Woodside would need to pay a substantial premium for Santos to make the deal worthwhile for the company. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Canada is celebrating a milestone as oil and gas companies have now voluntarily relinquished the last remaining permits for oil and gas exploration and development off its Pacific Coast. Canada has a federal moratorium on all offshore oil and gas activities on its West Coast in place since 1972, following a provincial moratorium by British Columbia on oil and gas drilling from 1959. However, permits issued before 1972 were still valid. Now that Chevron relinquished the last remaining oil and gas development permits offshore Western Canada, the country marks a milestone in protecting its environmentally-sensitive Pacific Coast and waters, Canadas federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said on Wednesday. Earlier this month, Chevron Canada said it had decided to voluntarily relinquish its 23 offshore oil and gas permits on Canadas west coast. Chevron regularly evaluates its portfolio and has no plans to pursue development of these offshore permits, which are an estimated 5,900 square kilometres, the Canadian unit of the U.S. supermajor said in early February. Chevron remains committed to safely and responsibly developing Canadas onshore and offshore oil and gas resources, the company added. With these final permits, Natural Resources Canada has officially secured the surrender of all 227 permits in the Pacific offshore, Wilkinson said in a statement today carried by Reuters. Last year, the other U.S. supermajor, ExxonMobil, gave up nine offshore oil and gas exploration permits it had held in British Columbia for more than 50 years. Several of Chevron and Exxons permits were in now-protected marine areas, according to the Canadian government. ADVERTISEMENT Meanwhile, Canadas oil producers in Alberta plan higher output for this year and expect to earn more from their heavy crude once the long-delayed expanded Trans Mountain Pipeline enters into service. Despite the uncertainty around the start date of the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion (TMX), some of the biggest Canadian producers plan to boost production in Albertas oil sands in the short to medium term. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chesapeake Energy reported expectation-beating profits for 2023 even though the figure was lower than the net result for 2022, standing at $2.4 billion, versus $3.5 billion for 2022. The company also reported net cash from operating activities at $2.4 billion for 2023, which was a much stronger figure than the one for 2022, which stood at $1.05 billion. In production, Chesapeake reported an average daily output of 3.66 billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent. In the final quarter of the year, however, the average was lower, at 3.43 billion cubic feet of natural gas equivalent. Plans for this year also point towards production maintenance rather than strong growth. The company said it would lower spending this year, to fund the addition of a modest 2.7 billion cubic feet equivalent. "We continue to show the resilience of this organization and assets in the midst of lower commodity prices," chief executive Nick DellOsso said at the earnings presentation of the company. Chesapeake has been one of the energy majors eager to grow through acquisitions over the past year. In January, the company announced its merger with Southwestern Energy, which cost $7.4 billion in an all-stock transaction. The deal will create the biggest U.S. natural gas producer by market value and production. It was a very timely one as well, amid a precipitous drop in natural gas prices that recently dipped below $2 per million British thermal units. This price drop has prompted many gas drillers in the United States to rethink their growth plans as the benchmark dips below their breakeven levels. Chesapeake Energy, which went through bankruptcy in 2020 when oil and gas prices crashed, has been solidifying in the past year its strategic focus on its gas assets in the Marcellus shale in Appalachia and in the Haynesville shale play in Louisiana while reducing its Eagle Ford position. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: By Kim Ji-soo A lazy late Friday afternoon in Seoul is usually not the time one expects to see many moviegoers. But last week, there were many, in particular, older adults mingling at a theater in Seoul, as the surprisingly popular documentary about Koreas first president, Syngman Rhee, is currently playing in theaters. That documentary has gathered some 700,000 people so far. This column, however, is about yet another movie titled Plan 75 (2022), a thought-provoking movie by Japanese director Chie Hayakawa about a state-coerced arrangement for death for those 75 years or older. Its a fictional story where super-aged Japan crafts a plan for citizens to sign up for assisted state medicide in return for 100,000 yen ($666). The rapid shift to a super-aged society where more than 20 percent of its population is 65 or older is a hotly debated issue in Korea as well. The movie is neither pleasant nor comfortable to sit through for much of its reel time. If anyone chooses to watch it, just be forewarned. This writer went to see how the movie interpreted the dilemma and challenges faced by Japan's super-aged society. There was also the hope that the film from the fastest-aging industrialized nation would prompt Koreans to think and gain insight and ideas on managing its own aging population. Japan, by 2021, saw its citizens aged 65 or older constitute nearly 30 percent of its total population. South Korea is expected to have more than 20 percent of its population aged 65 or older by 2025. There is another element that amplifies fear. Everything moves slightly faster in and for South Korea. Statistics Koreas 2022 figures estimated that while it took 10 years for Japan and 15 years for the United States to transition from an aged society to a super-aged one, it will most likely take seven years for Korea. The movie begins with a grim shooting spree by a young man at a geriatric hospital. He kills himself in the end but seems to justify his actions with the rhetoric that the increasing number of older adults was creating financial burdens for the younger generation and that older adults, too, dont want to add to society's burden. Still, the idea of Plan 75, in which people over 75 sign up for peaceful death, is difficult to digest, even as declining birthrates and increasing life expectancy put a burden on most societies around the world. Korea, too, has its share of problems, such as abuse and violence against older adults at the hands of privately hired caretakers and, in some, in-family murders when the caretaker is another family member. The film sheds light on what voluntarily choosing death for a small amount of cash and counseling assistance would entail, mainly through two of its protagonists. One woman, a 78-year-old widow living alone and forcibly retired from her job, and a man who is a cousin of a government official carrying out the scheme. The nuanced scenes speak loudly of the protagonists inner turmoil, anguish, indecision and decisions. When the woman chooses to flee from Plan 75 at the eleventh hour, respect for human life springs up in her heart. That may have been what its director, who was recently in Seoul, intended for the viewers to feel. The fact that such a stark, odd film has emerged illustrates a sense of urgency of the crisis aging societies are feeling. Its better for Korean society to be able to openly ruminate and discuss difficult issues facing the country, where things happen quickly. Kim Ji-soo is an editorial writer at The Korea Times. The growth in coal power generation in China is beginning to slow down as regional authorities seek to redirect investments to low-carbon energy, Bloomberg reports. The report notes the continual increase in coal production and coal-powered generation in China over the past seven years, with generation reaching a record in 2023. At the same time, however, Bloomberg reports that this growth has led to a glut that has pushed down coal companies bottom lines. China has set itself 2025 as a deadline for its coal demand peak. With just a year to go, coal growth does indeed need to slow down and according to one stock broker, it will. Guosheng Securities Co. said in a note cited by Bloomberg that Chinas coal production growth this year could shrink to 1.4%. The countrys four biggest coal-producing regions have all given indications they are not bent on continuing with the explosive production growth seen over the past seven years. Instead, the authorities of these regions are betting more on wind and solar, Bloomberg wrote. The province of Shanxi, for instance, plans to boost coal production this year by 57 million tons, which is a substantial reduction from last years 100 million tons. Shanxi is the biggest coal-producing province in China, with 2023 output seen at 1.23 billion tons. While reducing production growth targets, Shanxi authorities will expand solar capacity by covering land previously used in coal mining with solar panels. Last year, China was single-handedly responsible for 96% of global coal power capacity construction, cementing its position as the biggest coal builder in the world. Per data from Global Energy Monitor China, last year also accounted for 68% of new coal generation capacity that came online last year and 81% of newly planned coal generation projects. Authorities say that most of the new capacity would be used only as a backup for wind and solar installations. ADVERTISEMENT By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The European Union on Wednesday agreed in principle on a new, 13th, package of sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, days after the death of opposition leader Alexey Navalny in a Russian prison. The EU aims to vote on the package in time for February 24, which marks the second anniversary of the war, Belgium, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said today. This package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. It will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved for the 24 February, the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU wrote in a post on X. The package adds nearly 200 individuals and entities to the sanctions list, but there are no fresh sanctions on specific industries, diplomatic sources in the EU told Reuters on Wednesday. The newly-sanctioned entities and individuals are evenly split between Russias military industry and persons involved in kidnapping and trafficking of Ukrainian children, according to Reuters sources. The 13th package also adds one North Korean and one Belarusian company to the list. This package is more focused on stricter enforcement of the current sanctions, according to Bloomberg. We must keep degrading Putin's war machine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X, commenting on the deal on the 13th package of sanctions. With 2000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones, von der Leyen said. The new sanctions were approved days after Navalny, 47, a fierce critic of Putins regime, died last week in a penal colony in Russias Arctic Circle. Ahead of the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States and the EU, together with partners, discussed last week the potential of slapping robust new sanctions on Russia, a senior U.S. official told Reuters. ADVERTISEMENT By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Germanys state-controlled firm Securing Energy for Europe (Sefe) plans to invest around $540 million (500 million euros) in repurposing some of its underground gas storage sites and gas pipelines into infrastructure fit for storing and transporting green hydrogen, Sefes CEO Egbert Laege told Reuters in an interview published on Wednesday. The exact investment calculation is not yet available, but we are talking about sums in the mid-three-digit million-euro range for converting some of our gas storage sites to hydrogen, Laege told Reuters. SEFE, wholly owned by the German government, was created in 2022 after Germany saved a former Gazprom unit it had expropriated in April 2022 with a multi-billion-euro loan. Gazprom Germania was renamed Securing Energy for Europe GmbH (Sefe), to secure energy supply to Germany and Europe, the German government said at the time. Currently, SEFE operates 5.6 billion cubic meters of gas storage caverns in Germany, or around a quarter of the countrys total gas storage capacity, according to Reuters estimates. The company is supplying natural gas to industry and gas distributors in Germany, the UK, and other European markets. SEFE has created a new hydrogen department as it looks to further expand its activities in renewable energies with the aim of decarbonizing its business model, the company said at the end of last year. In December, Sefe and Equinor signed one of the biggest-ever natural supply deals for Norways energy giant worth an estimated $54 billion (50 billion euros). The agreement also included a non-binding letter of intent with the intention that Sefe will become a long-term off-taker of giga-scale, low-carbon hydrogen supplies from Equinor starting in 2029 and continuing towards 2060. SEFE and Equinor share ambitious goals to accelerate the development of the hydrogen economy. This includes joint business opportunities related to transport and storage of hydrogen for the future, Laege said at the time. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Turkeys engineering group Kontrolmatik signed on Wednesday an agreement with a Chinese firm to build a wind farm and a 1 GWh energy storage facility in western Turkey, worth more than $600 million. Kontrolmatiks unit Progresiva Enerji Yatirimlari Ticaret signed the deal with electric power plant equipment manufacturer Harbin Electric International (HEI), a unit of Chinas Harbin Electric Co Ltd, at a ceremony in Ankara today. The investment for the 1 GWh energy storage facility is estimated in the range between $350 million and $375 million, while the investment for the 250-megawatt (MW) wind farm will be about $250 million. Of the financing of the wind plus energy storage project, $375 million is already in the pipeline for the initial phase, Turkeys Vice President Cevdet Y?lmaz told the ceremony in Ankara, as carried by Daily Sabah. About $300 million of the investment will come from China through Habin, according to the companies. In 2025, Turkeys First GWh (Gigawatt-Hour) renewable energy storage facility will be built in Tekirdag, on the north coast of the Sea of Marmara, Kontrolmatik said on social media platform X. The project will be implemented in two phases, said Sami Arslanhan, chairman of the board of Kontrolmatik. The wind farm is expected to be commissioned in 2027, according to Reuters. Chinas Harbin will be the main contractor for engineering, construction, and procurement in the project, while Kontrolmatik will be responsible for electrical works, with its subsidiary Pomega acting as a subcontractor for the purchase of batteries. This project will enhance our national capabilities, propel Turkiye into a new phase in battery technologies, and pave the way for the largest energy storage facility in Europe, the countrys Vice President Y?lmaz said. ADVERTISEMENT According to Y?lmaz, Turkey ranks first in geothermal installed capacity in Europe, second in hydroelectric capacity, seventh in wind power, and eighth in solar power installed capacity. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A day after a New York court ruling that Venezuelan law would determine the validity of bonds issued by state-run PDVSA oil company, Bloomberg reports that bonds have collapsed, slumping on questions over their validity. At stake is $2 billion in PDVSA bonds, and PDVSA notes dropped 17 cents following Tuesdays ruling, according to Bloomberg. On Tuesday, the New York State Court of Appeals ruled on the matter after Venezuelan opposition, which controls the state-run oil companys U.S. assets, said the bonds set to mature in 2020 were invalid because they had not been approved by Venezuelas National Assembly. The New York Court of Appeals ruled that validity must be determined by local law in the place of issuance. Venezuelas opposition is seeking to have the bonds invalidated because they are backed by a 50.1% stake in Citgo Holding, the holding group that gives state-run PDVSA ownership of Citgo. In turn, bond invalidation would prevent creditors from seizing Citgo, Reuters reports. In mid-October, PDVSA bonds soared after the Biden administration moved to allow U.S. investors to buy the bonds in line with a sanctions relief package for Venezuela. The removal of those restrictions led to a 10-cent jump in Venezuelan government bonds immediately, along with a doubling of the price of PDVSA bonds. Bloomberg reported. The bonds are highly attractive to U.S. investors because of their price and hedging that relations between the U.S. and Venezuela will eventually normalize. The lifting of the trading ban is likely to unleash significant pent-up demand from US persons, London-based EMFIs senior strategist, Guillermo Guerrero, wrote in a note carried by Bloomberg in October. This, alongside the general optimism that these developments will inevitably bring, guarantees a significant rise in bond prices. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Following a 4.7% month-over-month decline during January, aluminum prices fell an additional 1.9% throughout the first half of February. Despite these declines, aluminum prices continued to trade in their long-term sideways range. Meanwhile, the Midwest Premium also remains consolidated, with prices retracing to the downside following a short-lived bounce at the end of January. Overall, the Aluminum Monthly Metals Index (MMI) moved sideways, with a modest 1.8% decline from January to February. Aluminum Prices, Premium Market Shakes Off Smelter Closure Headlines were abuzz with news that the U.S. would lose nearly a third of its primary aluminum smelting capacity with the closure of New Madrid in Missouri. The smelter was the second largest in the U.S., accounting for around 30% of domestic primary aluminum production and boasting an annual capacity of 263,000 tons. While the curtailment of New Madrid saw the Midwest Premium jump over 6% during the final week of January, the premium retraced almost immediately. Source: MetalMiner, Insights Energy Prices, Chinese Output Caused New Madrid Closure While New Madrid had long reported struggles with profitability, its owner, Magnitude 7 metals, attributed the smelters closure to the combined effects of high energy prices and robust output from China. Although tariffs continue to block Chinese aluminum from markets like the U.S., the material still impacts the global supply balance. This, in turn, significantly impacts prices. According to data from the International Aluminum Institute, Chinese production rose over 3% from 2022 to 2023, repeatedly setting new monthly record highs throughout the year. While markets appeared concerned that the beginning of the dry season in Chinas hydro-rich Yunnan Province would curb the countrys output and offer support to prices, that has yet to occur. The final two months of 2023 saw Chinese production levels trend up from the same months of 2022, albeit down slightly from their all-time high in October 2023. Although energy prices sit below their previous highs, New Madrids closure suggests they remain too high to offset current demand levels. Although the Midwest Premium, a proxy for U.S. demand, appeared largely flat throughout Q4, it continued to edge lower. Indeed, by the second half of February, it reached its lowest level since March 2021. Demand Remains Muted as Alcoa Reports 2023 Decline in Aluminum Shipments While the U.S. loses capacity, global producer Alcoas financial results appeared emblematic of muted demand conditions. According to the company, the global aluminum market appeared balanced to slight surplus by the end of 2023, with aluminum shipments falling 3% from 2022. However, shipments saw a slight pickup during Q4, with a 1% quarterly rise. Aluminum production also increased during the quarter with a 2% rise from the third quarters strong output, which likely offset the impact of increased shipments. Despite Q4s increase, Alcoa does not expect a sharp market turnaround in 2024. Rather, the company anticipates global shipments to remain consistent with 2023. While the restart of some smelters will help boost supply, this will likely be offset by lower trading volumes amid current demand conditions. Aluminum Price Outlook Although New Madrid remains closed, a letter from owner Magnitude 7 stated that the company would continue to pursue investments to eventually restart the smelter. While the company might find some momentum from the ongoing reshoring movement, it remains an uphill battle amid current demand conditions. As Reuters noted, the combination of supply from Canada and rising domestic secondary supply appears enough to offset the loss of the smelter. With the market shrugging off the at least temporary loss of New Madrid, the outlook for aluminum prices appears more likely to hinge upon U.S. demand and Chinese production. Interestingly, the correlation between the Midwest Premium and LME prices rose over recent years, suggesting that U.S. demand now plays an more important role in market direction. Between 2015 to the present, the correlation between the two price points stood at just under 84%. However, between 2020 and the present, the correlation jumped to over 92%. ADVERTISEMENT Source: MetalMiner Insights, Chart & Correlation Analysis Tool The Midwest Premium currently remains consolidated with a slight downside bias. This suggests that aluminum prices will likely follow a similar trend until demand begins to experience a turnaround. From a supply perspective, Chinese production levels still have the opportunity to upset the current market balance. Meanwhile, a sharp decline from China remains a possibility, although it has yet to occur. By Nichole Bastin More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Around its west end of Bunker No.20 (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) On Okinawa, youll find many peaceful spots that offer a nice ocean view or a breath of fresh air and might not realize that these are sites immersed deep in military and war history. About a 5-minute drive from Takatsukazan is one such site, Kuganimui Hill. The hill is similar in size to Takatsukazan and there is a promenade cutting through the forest which offers visitors a peaceful place to walk. Though the site offers a respite from the heat and a brisk pathway to get in some steps, it also played an important role during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. A view of Kuganimui from the east (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Koganimui Hill was a shield for tunnels used by Haebaru Army Hospital, which treated injured soldiers of the Imperial Japanese 32nd Army. The hospital moved to the area after the original facility in Naha was air raided months before the start of the battle. With the help of Masakatsu Fujiwara, a guide with the Haebaru Town Museum, I learned more about the area on a walk through the site. Fujiwara, 82 and originally from Tokushima prefecture, has a personal tie to the war as his father died in the battle, he said. As we made our way through the grassy, tree-covered hill, Fujiwara recounted the story about how 30 to 40 tunnels were dug around the hill to guard patients and medical crew from air raids and naval guns. Inside the tunnels, surgical teams worked round the clock and consisted of 350 staff, over 200 female students, or Himeyuri Gakuto,and 18 instructors. At Haebaru Town Museum, visitors can learn more about the battle and the history that took place at Koganimui. A video at the museum described the challenges Himeyuri Gakuto faced while caring for injured soldiers in the hospital tunnels. During the battle, many troops were injured but there wasnt enough staff or medicine to care for them all. Much like the chaos of war outside, the chaos carried on inside the narrow tunnels with deteriorating conditions, suffering soldiers, dead bodies and more. Some students were tasked with delivering food along the Meshiage no Michi path which exposed them to air raids. Today, this area is a paved stone path covered in trees which Fujiwara said were planted after the war. Meshiage no MIchi (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) About a 5-minute walk from the path, there is a memorial for the hospital. Many of the bunkers and trenches that were once here during wartime are long gone, but not forgotten. We continued a little further and reached a ridgeline running north to south that then took us onto the hospital food path heading east. Soon we reached the top of the hill and though trees now reach the heavens above us, this was once a prime lookout area during the battle. The east portion of the bunker (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Rugged surface of the bunker (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Eventually we reached a paved road that led us toward Bunker 20, a must-see that requires advanced reservation for a museum guide to enter. This 70-meter-long bunker is well preserved and maintained with many portions left as they were during the battle. To enter, we donned helmets and flashlights. Near the west entrance, medicine and a pickax, which were excavated on the site, are on display. On the record, the tunnel measures 1.8 m each in height and in width, but the space was very tight even for me at my 5 5 stature. Medicines exhibited near the west entrance (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) pickax used to construct the bunker (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) During the war, the already narrow tunnels were limited in space with two-layered cots on one side and unpaved, uneven floors. Today, remnants of smoke-stained pillars to uphold the tunnels remain. Fujiwara noted that the smoky dark color of the pillars was thought to be from flamethrowers used by U.S. military. Pieces of the columns were also missing, which he said were probably removed by locals after the war for construction materials. The wall and the ceiling were very rugged, attesting to the makeshift work the Japanese had to do to get the hospital up and running after the raids in Naha. Some portions of the ceiling gleamed when lit with a flashlight, probably a sign of a pickax work. Halfway through, an intersection for bunkers 19 and 21. Bunker 19 was fenced off after the ceiling collapsed some time ago, Fujiwara said. Bunker No. 21 (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Bunker No. 19 (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) After spending about 20 minutes making our way through the bunker, we reached the exit on the east end. We circled back above ground and reached a broad grass field spreading southward from Bunker 20. Here there were a few mementos commemorating the memory of the Army Hospital and Article 9 of Japans constitution renouncing war. The view is peaceful and beautiful, but Fujiwara reminded me of the tragic events and unfathomable position hospital staff and soldiers were in here. There used to be a hole created by a naval gun in the field. Back then, corpses and severed limbs were thrown in there, he said. In 1990, the bunkers were designated a cultural heritage by Haebaru Town and in 2009, the bunker was opened to the public. Since the war, the story of the Himeyuri Gakuto has been retold several times in different movies. Kuganimui is about a 30-minute drive from Camp Foster via expressway. Map of Bunker No.20 (Photo by Shoji Kudaka) Things to know GPS Coordinates: N 26.187345, E 127.730615 (Parking lot) *To enter Bunker #20, a reservation through Haebaru Museum is required. Tel: 098-889-7399 Email: H8897399@town.haebaru.okinawa.jp Guide fee costs 300 yen. The other areas can be accessed without reservation. The office is open 9 a.m. 6 p.m. (closed on Wed) Elies Chinchorro Caribbean Bistro, in south-central Omaha, is closing its doors next week. Its last day will be Feb. 29, owner Elie Berchal said. She will continue catering and event services and hopes to reopen a restaurant sometime soon. I still want to grow in Omaha, she said in an interview. Omaha opened the door for me. I love it. She announced the closing on Facebook, telling her customers to stay tuned because we are going to be reinventing. December and January were slow months for the restaurant, and that contributed to the closing, she told The World-Herald. I am doing everything by myself, she said, adding that family members are unable to help financially. The snowstorm (in mid-January) killed me. The owners of the building have been very understanding, she said, but she felt like she needed to take action now. She said she has applied for grants and loans and is waiting for responses. The restaurant opened in fall 2022 at 3020 S. 32nd Ave. in a storefront leased from Don and Marie Losole, who also owned the nearby Lo Sole Mio restaurant, which is now Mio Italiano. Elies Chinchorro serves Puerto Rican cuisine such as mofongo, a plantain dish with veggies, shrimp, chicken or other proteins; fried chicken rind appetizers; and other dishes that arent readily available elsewhere in Omaha. It also has Caribbean cocktails such as a pina colada made from a family recipe. On Facebook, Berchal urged diners to follow her social media posts to learn whats next and said she was grateful for all the support from her customers. Thank you for so many expressions of affection. I love you so much, she said on Facebook. See you soon! Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 A deputy with the Douglas County Sheriffs Office remains on administrative leave after he was arrested on suspicion of third-degree sexual assault of a high school student. Casado Moya, 38, was cited for the misdemeanor Wednesday after consultation with the Douglas County Attorneys Office and the Omaha City Prosecutors Office, according to a press release from the Sheriffs Office. Third-degree sexual assault is a criminal offense that does not include penetration or serious personal injury to a victim. Moya, an 11-year veteran with the Sheriffs Office, had been a school resource officer for Elkhorn South High School since Aug. 14, 2023. He was relieved of duty on Feb.2 and placed on administrative leave. The Sheriffs Office said the victim is a 16-year-old female student at Elkhorn South. Witnesses were interviewed and corroborated the victims account, the press release said. The photos taken by investigators at 2716 Alberta Ave. in Bellevue on May 16, 2021, appeared to show a typical family home. Toys scattered across the living room floor. A collage of family pictures pasted on the wall. Kids artwork proudly displayed above the couch. But just feet away from the photo collage and gallery wall, the bodies of two children a 3-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl were tucked into their beds. They were fully clothed with stuffed animals tucked under their arms and comforters over their chests. The children were dead. Their father, who had custody of the kids for the week, was nowhere to be found. Jurors in Sarpy County heard this evidence and more Tuesday during the first day of trial for 38-year-old Adam Price, who faces two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his children, Emily, 5, and Theodore, 3. He is alleged to have smothered the children to death in his Bellevue home at some point between May 13 and 14 of 2021 before fleeing from the state. Attorneys offered brief opening statements on Tuesday, with prosecutors saying Price deliberately and with premeditated malice smothered his children before staging their bodies as if they were sleeping in their beds. In a preview of the states evidence of premeditation, prosecutors said Price withdrew $1,500 from his checking account and called in sick from work on May 13. Price appeared at trial wearing a dark gray suit with a blue tie and a shaved head. In opening statements, defense attorneys said law enforcement and prosecutors did not explore other possible causes of death besides asphyxia by smothering, leading to an incomplete and biased investigation. At the time of the deaths, Price and the childrens mother, Mary Nielsen, were in the midst of divorce and custody proceedings. In February 2021, Price and Nielsen were granted joint legal and physical custody of their two children, according to court documents. They were ordered to alternate custody every week, and each party was to have phone or FaceTime visitation with the children every day the children were with the other party. On May 10, 2021, Nielsen saw her children alive for the last time when she dropped them off to spend a week with their father. Nielsen was living in Illinois at the time and would meet Price at a halfway point in Iowa each week to exchange custody. But on May 13 and 14, prosecutors said, Nielsen couldnt get in touch with Price or her children. She called 911 twice to request a welfare check, but police said they didnt have probable cause to enter the home. Instead, Nielsen turned to Facebook to ask her friends if anyone had heard from Price. Morgan Clark, a close friend who had worked with Nielsen at Nebraska Medicine, responded to the post. Clark was the first witness called to testify on Tuesday. According to Clarks testimony: After talking on the phone with Nielsen on the morning of May 16, 2021, Clark decided to drive from her home in Blair to Prices home in Bellevue to check on the children. Clark also called a friend, Kashe Hall, to accompany her. Upon arriving at the Bellevue home, Clark and Hall entered through the unlocked front door and began yelling for Adam or the children to respond. Clark entered Emilys room and saw the girl unresponsive in her bed. Startled by seeing Emilys body, Clark and Hall ran out of the house and went to a neighboring home belonging to a police officer. They rang the doorbell and knocked, but received no answer. Clark called 911. A recording of the 911 call was played in court. The 911 dispatcher instructed Clark to go back into the house to check if Emily was breathing. When she arrived in the bedroom, Clark began crying and pleading for an ambulance. Please, please send an ambulance, Clark said. Shes not breathing. Shes dead. The little boy is dead too. Please, please send help. Why do you think theyre dead? The dispatcher asked. Because theyre dead, Ive seen a dead person, Clark said. Please help before their dad comes home. Photos taken by investigators and published at trial showed Emily and Theodore tucked into their beds with closed eyes and purple lips. Emily was laying under a pink comforter with a stuffed giraffe tucked under her arm. Theodore was underneath a black and red blanket. Jurors also heard from multiple first responders who were at the scene. Former Bellevue Fire Department paramedic Doug Vawter said the smell of death permeated the home. Larry Schwartz, a former Bellevue police officer who performed a welfare check just hours before Clark found the childrens bodies, testified as to why officers didnt enter the home when requested to by Nielsen on May 15 and 16. I didnt have any probable cause to believe there was anything amiss or out of the ordinary, Schwartz said. Hong Kong makes new highlights in external interactions 13:35, February 21, 2024 By Jiang Yichu ( People's Daily Photo shows a night view of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor. (People's Daily Online/Wang Gang) Since the new-term Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government took office in July 2022, a series of new measures have been taken to actively expand external interactions in various fields, injecting strong impetus into the promotion of Hong Kong's prosperity and strengthening the connectivity between China and the world. These new measures have created new highlights. Over the past year, Hong Kong's external interactions have become increasingly active, and international cooperation and communication have been continuously strengthened, revealing new features and advantages. The HKSAR government has recognized the growth potential and vast opportunities in the ASEAN and Middle East markets, making them a key focus for expanding its external interactions. Chief executive of the HKSAR John Lee led a high-level delegation to visit ASEAN countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia, as well as Middle East countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. During the visit, nearly 50 cooperation agreements were signed, promoting collaboration in areas such as finance, trade, talent, and energy. ASEAN countries have expressed clear support for Hong Kong's accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The HKSAR has established institutions like the Hong Kong-Middle East Business Chamber and hosted events like the inaugural Asia Future Investment Initiative (FII) PRIORITY Summit. It plans to open more economic and trade offices and consultancy offices in Belt and Road countries in ASEAN and the Middle East, to continuously promote opportunities in Hong Kong and foster mutually beneficial cooperation, thus creating a wave of collaboration. With advantages in both traditional and emerging sectors, Hong Kong has further expanded its scope of cooperation. It has continuously consolidated its external interactions in traditional areas of strength such as finance, shipping, and trade. Efforts have also been made to deepen institutional cooperation in financial regulation, international taxation, and shipping. Hong Kong has updated its free trade agreement (FTA) with ASEAN and pushed for FTA negotiations with countries like Peru. It has concluded investment promotion and protection agreements with Turkiye and other countries, and signed comprehensive avoidance of double taxation agreements with Croatia and others. These efforts aimed to enhance Hong Kong's international attractiveness and competitiveness. In 2022, Hong Kong attracted a total of $117.7 billion in inward direct investment, ranking fourth globally. At the same time, it has witnessed rapid development in its international cooperation in emerging fields such as technology innovation, climate change, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution. Leveraging its advantages in professional services, Hong Kong has signed memorandums of understanding with multiple countries on cooperation in intellectual property rights and legal services, introducing a number of leading high-tech companies from home and abroad. The HKSAR has also significantly promoted its policies on attracting professionals, aiming to attract global innovation and technology enterprises as well as outstanding talents to settle in Hong Kong. These efforts have yielded notable results. In addition, the HKSAR government has actively built platforms for communication and cooperation, attracting people from various sectors around the world. Hong Kong has hosted international conferences and events such as the Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit, Hong Kong's Belt and Road Summit, and the Asian Financial Forum, which enhanced its international influence. The Preparatory Office of the International Organization for Mediation was inaugurated in Hong Kong. Moreover, officials of the HKSAR government have proactively participated in conferences such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings, the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, and the United Nations Human Rights Council meetings. The Commissioner of the Independent Commission Against Corruption of the HKSAR has assumed an important position in the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities, making Hong Kong's voice louder in external exchanges and cooperation. These positive changes indicate that Hong Kong is gradually building a new pattern of high-quality external interactions. Building on its traditional strengths, Hong Kong is expanding its "circle of friends" to include developing countries and emerging economies. Cooperation areas are continuously deepening and expanding, with a stronger momentum. Hong Kong is also better integrating and aligning with major national initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area strategy. Under this new pattern, Hong Kong's external interactions are more balanced and diverse, allowing its advantages and potential to be further utilized. Its resilience is continuously improving, providing greater space and more opportunities to contribute to the overall development of China while maintaining its local prosperity and stability. With strong support from the central government and the relentless efforts of various sectors in the special administrative region, Hong Kong is emerging on the world stage with a fresh new image. Looking ahead, as a bridge connecting the Chinese mainland and the world, Hong Kong will achieve new heights in terms of international influence and competitiveness. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming) Hyundai Motor, Tesla Korea and four other carmakers will recall nearly 55,000 vehicles due to faulty components, the transport ministry said Wednesday. The six companies, including Kia, Ford Sales & Service Korea, GS Global and Bumhan Mobility, are voluntarily recalling a total of 54,792 units of 19 different models, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said in a statement. The problems that prompted the recall include rear camera software problems in Tesla's flagship SUV Model X, a faulty power transmission system in the rear wheels of Kia's all-electric EV6 model and a faulty power transmission system in the rear wheels of Hyundai's pure electric Ioniq 5 model, the statement said. Vehicle owners can check the government's homepage at www.car.go.kr or call 080-357-2500 to see if their vehicles are subject to the recall, the ministry said. (Yonhap) Nebraska schools now can receive more funding to fortify their security measures with a new statewide grant program. The Nebraska Department of Education announced the launch of a $10 million Safety and Security-Related Infrastructure Grant program on Tuesday. The funds were approved by the Legislature last year for public and private schools to upgrade security materials in order to improve student and staff safety. The grant aims to address the critical need for improved physical security measures across educational settings, allocating funds towards advanced technology, essential safety equipment and significant infrastructure enhancements, the department said in a Tuesday press release. Eligible uses for the funds include the purchase of bleeding-control kits, door-locking mechanisms, bulletproof window film, ground lighting, screening devices, visitor management systems and more. David Patton, superintendent of the Auburn Public Schools, said during a Jan. 3 public hearing about the grant program that the money will be crucial for his district to make the appropriate safety upgrades. Many of us in schools use as much of our local funds as possible to address security needs. But this approach is haphazard and fragmented, Patton said. Having additional funds will free up local funds for other district needs, such as instruction. School districts in the Omaha metro area have been upgrading security measures in the past few years, including after the 2022 mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. The Elkhorn Public Schools updated cameras and their alert system later that year. The district also installed security film, which keeps people from seeing inside, on every glass entry and egress window. Most metro districts also changed their locks in the past year, and bulletproof film is part of the Papillion La Vista bond issue that was approved in 2023. Now more schools can access funds for similar upgrades, no matter how rural or whether they are public or private. Districts are invited to submit their applications for a share of funds by March 14. Awards will be announced by April 3. The NDE strongly encourages all eligible institutions to seize this critical opportunity to augment their safety protocols and infrastructure, the department said in a statement. By working collectively, we can ensure a safer and more secure learning environment for our students and educators. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. The first federal trial over a hate crime based on gender identity began Tuesday in South Carolina, where a man faces charges that he killed a Black transgender woman and then fled to New York. The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that in August 2019, Daqua Lameek Ritter lured the woman who is referred to as Dime Doe in court documents into driving to a sparsely populated rural county in South Carolina. Ritter then shot her three times in the head with a .22 caliber handgun after they reached an isolated area near his uncle's home, according to Ben Garner, an assistant U.S. attorney for the district of South Carolina. In recent years there has been a surge in attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. For decades, transgender women of color have faced disproportionately high rates of violence and hate crimes, according to the Department of Homeland Security. In 2022, the number of gender identity-based hate crimes reported by the FBI increased by 37% compared to the previous year. And until 2009, federal hate crime laws did not account for offenses motivated by the victim's sexual orientation or gender identity. The first conviction involving a victim targeted for their gender identity came in 2017. A Mississippi man received a 49-year prison sentence as part of a plea deal after he admitted to killing a 17-year-old transgender woman. But Tuesday marks the first time that such a case has ever been brought to trial, according to Brook Andrews, an assistant U.S. attorney for the District of South Carolina. Never before has a federal jury decided whether to convict and further punish someone for a crime based on the victim's gender identity. During opening arguments, Garner portrayed Ritter as someone working vigilantly to avoid the ridicule he'd face if his secret relationship was exposed. They'd met during his teenage years when he traveled from his grandmother's Brooklyn home to visit family property in Allendale, South Carolina. The two had been close friends, according to the defense, and were related through Ritters aunt and the womans uncle. But Ritter became enraged when he learned that one of Doe's friends knew about their sexual relationship, according to Garner. Ritter threatened to beat her for sharing that information with anyone something he had repeatedly instructed her not to do, Garner said. The government has said that Ritters girlfriend learned about the affair between Ritter and Doe in the month before the killing. Prosecutors believe the revelation, which they say prompted Ritters girlfriend to hurl a homophobic slur, made Ritter extremely upset. Garner cited text messages purporting to show that Ritter complained to Doe about the mockery less than one week before her death. He killed her to silence her, Garner told the jury. They say that Ritter lied about his whereabouts in an interview with state police later that day. A nervous Ritter walked to his uncle's house about half a mile away from the crime scene and asked for a ride home, according to Garner. Prosecutors say that Ritter enlisted others to help burn his clothes, hide the weapon and mislead police about his location on the day of the murder. Ritter is said to have been splitting time between South Carolina, where he had a job and drivers license, and New York, where he lived with family and was eventually arrested. Government lawyers plan to present witness testimony about Ritter's location and text messages with the woman, in which he allegedly persuaded her to take the ride. Evidence includes video footage taken at a traffic stop around 3 p.m. on the day of Doe's death that shows Ritter's distinctive left wrist tattoo, but not his face, in the passenger seat of her car. Other evidence includes DNA from the woman's car and testimony from multiple people who say that Ritter privately confessed to them about the fatal shooting. Ritter's lawyers have emphasized that the trial is not about their sexual relationship, but whether Ritter killed Doe. Lindsey Vann, one of the defense attorneys, argued Tuesday that no physical evidence points to Ritter as the perpetrator. Notably, Vann said the State Law Enforcement Division never processed a gunshot residue test that Ritter voluntarily took the day of the killing. The defense has said it is no surprise that Ritter might have been linked to Doe's car, considering their intimate ties. Further, Vann said the traffic stop footage could have been taken as early as three hours before her death. The defense added that witnesses' claims regarding the disposal of evidence are inconsistent. Vann said Ritters friends have given conflicting interviews about details like the alleged burning of Ritters clothes while facing the threat of federal prosecution if they failed to cooperate. Any lies that Ritter told investigators were the result of his deep-seated fear of being considered a suspect and adding more fuel to the local gossip about the relationship, Vann said. Prosecutors don't plan to seek the death penalty, but Ritter could receive multiple life sentences if convicted by a jury. In addition to the hate crimes charge, Ritter faces two other counts that he committed murder with a firearm and misled investigators. States with the most anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes #43. Mississippi #42. Delaware #41. Hawaii #40. Rhode Island #39. Wyoming #38. Alaska #37. West Virginia #36. Vermont #35. Louisiana #34. Montana #33. Arkansas #32. Nebraska #31. New Hampshire #30. North Dakota #29. South Dakota #28. Idaho #27. Iowa #26. Kansas #25. Oklahoma #24. Connecticut #23. Arizona #22. Tennessee #21. South Carolina #20. Virginia #19. Indiana #18. Wisconsin #17. District of Columbia #16. Maine #15. Utah #14. Nevada #13. Alabama #12. North Carolina #11. Kentucky #10. Missouri #9. Georgia #8. Minnesota #7. Oregon #6. Michigan #5. Colorado #4. Massachusetts #3. Ohio #1. Texas WASHINGTON The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected an appeal from Sidney Powell and other lawyers allied with former President Donald Trump over $150,000 in sanctions they were ordered to pay for abusing the court system with a sham lawsuit challenging the 2020 election results in Michigan. The justices did not comment in leaving in place the sanctions against seven lawyers who were part of the lawsuit filed on behalf of six Republican voters after Joe Bidens 154,000-vote victory over Trump in the state. Among the lawyers is L. Lin Wood, whose name was on the lawsuit. Wood has insisted he had no role other than to tell Powell he would be available if she needed a seasoned litigator. The money is owed to the state and Detroit, for their costs in defending the lawsuit. The sanctions initially totaled $175,000, but a federal appeals court reduced them by about $25,000. In October, Powell pleaded guilty to state criminal charges in Georgia over her efforts to overturn Trumps loss in the state. She pleaded guilty to six misdemeanors accusing her of conspiring to intentionally interfere with the performance of election duties. Powell gained notoriety for saying in November 2020 that she would release the Kraken, invoking a mythical sea monster when talking about a lawsuit she planned to file to challenge the results of the presidential election. A midmorning shooting in a small-town bowling alley on Tuesday left two men dead and the northeast Nebraska community of Bloomfield shaken. I dont remember there being a homicide in Bloomfield for years," Knox County Sheriff Don Henery said at a Wednesday press conference. "We dont have a lot in Knox County, quite truthfully. Curt Strom, 77, and William Reffett, 49, died after being shot inside the bowling alley and restaurant Curts Lanes and Dining at 112 W. Grant St., Nebraska State Patrol Capt. Dain Hicks said at the press conference. According to Hicks, citing details from a preliminary investigation, Alias Reed, a 25-year-old Bloomfield resident, went to the bowling alley with a shotgun and initiated an argument with Reffett around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. Hicks said Reed shot Reffett and, moments later, shot Strom, who was not a party to the argument. Strom owned the bowling alley. Strom was well-respected and had owned his namesake bowling alley and restaurant for nearly 51 years, his daughter Page Hingst said. She and Bloomfield Mayor Brad Eckmann described Strom as generous and big-hearted. "He would give the shirt off his back for anybody," Hingst said. "He loved the community. The community was his pride. He wanted to serve the community and be there for the community." In addition to bowling and Bloomfield, Strom also loved fishing and his three grandchildren. He was a classic rock fan. Reffett, Hingst said, was also a good guy. She said Reffett had been working for Strom, doing some repairs. "He was so sweet and so nice," Hingst said. 'Still working on a motive' The context and substance of the argument is still under investigation, Hicks said. Were still working on motive and trying to get a better understanding of this crime, he said. Authorities found the shotgun allegedly used in the shooting in a ditch along a county road several miles west of Bloomfield, Hicks said. Investigators believe Reed and a woman, 27-year-old Kaylyne Sweazy, traveled to that location to dispose of the weapon, he said. Reed and Sweazy were found at their home shortly after the fatal shooting occurred, according to a State Patrol press release. Reed faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of robbery stemming from investigators finding money stolen from the bowling alley, according to Hicks. Hicks added Sweazy faces one count of tampering with evidence. A representative from the Knox County Attorneys Office said charges are pending. The fatal shooting stunned the town of Bloomfield, which has about 1,100 residents, Henery said. Law enforcement placed schools on lockout Tuesday and a number of businesses in Bloomfield reportedly closed following the shooting. To say its not shocking would be an understatement," Henery said, "because it is. This isnt what human nature does. Suspects had been subject of child neglect allegations Court records indicate that Reed and Sweazy have been the focus of child neglect allegations in the past, including in recent days. A State Patrol spokesman said there is no indication the allegations played any role in Tuesday's incident. On Feb. 10, the Knox County Attorney's Office petitioned to have an infant removed from the care of its parents, Reed and Sweazy, due to a "lack of support." The petition filed in Knox County District Court said the child lived in a home at 210 W. Grant St. in Bloomfield that "does not have gas, heat, or hot water." The petition said that "one bedroom of the home is heated with a space heater, which poses a potential fire hazard due to the condition of the bedroom." Any water that needs to be warmed is boiled first, the petition said. "The family does not have necessary supplies to take care of a newborn baby," the petition said. "There is no crib or safe sleep space for the infant." Sweazy allegedly told authorities that she would be feeding the baby formula. "However, there were no bottles in the home aside from one bottle sent with the parents from the hospital," the petition said. "Therefore, Petitioner asks the Court to adjudicate the child to be as alleged and enter such orders as may be warranted." The infant was placed in the custody of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, with court proceedings scheduled for March 21. In 2022, the Knox County Attorney's Office successfully petitioned to have another child removed from the care of Reed and Sweazy. The couple later relinquished parental rights to the now 5-year-old child. The Bloomfield Police Department requested assistance from the State Patrol to investigate the incident. Bloomfield is located about 167 miles northwest of Omaha and 30 miles southwest of Yankton, South Dakota. Hicks said the incident remains under investigation. The Nebraska State Patrol has arrested two people in connection with a double homicide that occurred Tuesday morning in northeast Nebraska. Local authorities received a report of a shooting in the town of Bloomfield at approximately 9:30 a.m., according to a press release from authorities. The Knox County Sheriffs Office and Bloomfield Police Department responded to Curts Lanes and Dining at 112 W. Grant St., where they found two men dead with apparent gunshot wounds, the release said. The names of the deceased were being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Alias Reed, 25, of Bloomfield, was identified as a person of interest, located a short time later and taken into custody, the release said. Following further investigation, Reed was arrested on suspicion of two counts of first-degree murder and taken to the Knox County Jail. Reeds girlfriend, 27-year-old Kaylyne Sweazy, was arrested on suspicion of tampering with evidence and taken to the Antelope County Jail. Investigators believe the shooting occurred during an altercation between Reed and the victims at the bowling alley, according to the release. Reed and Sweazy were found at their home shortly after the shooting occurred. The Bloomfield Police Department requested assistance from the State Patrol to investigate the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing. The State Patrol and Sheriffs Office plan to hold a press conference at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Bloomfield City Hall. The Katsina State Police Command says bandits have killed 47 people in early morning attacks on communities in three local government areas of the state. The commands Spokesman, SP Gambo Isah, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Katsina. He said that the bandits carried out the attacks in Dutsinma, Danmusa and Safana local government areas about 12:30am on April 18. The command spokesman did not give further details but said that police, army, Air Force, civil defence and DSS personnel had been deployed to restore normalcy in the affected communities. (NAN) Post Views: 36 President, Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday says the Saturdays presidential is all about a choice, a choice between going back or keeping the momentum of CHANGE. The president, in a nationwide broadcast, assured Nigerians that the government would do its very best to ensure that the 2019 elections take place in a secure and peaceful atmosphere. And as your president and a fellow Nigerian, I ask that you come out and queue to fulfill this important obligation you have to yourselves and your fellow citizens and to our common future. Let me at this point; reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Government to the conduct of free and fair elections in a safe and peaceful atmosphere. Just yesterday, I signed the Peace Accord alongside 72 other presidential candidates, he said. Buhari assured all Nigerians, the diplomatic community and all foreign election observers of their safety and full protection, saying that any comments or threats of intimidation from any source did not represent the position of the Federal Government of Nigeria. As Government has a critical role in maintaining the democratic traditions, so do citizens. I therefore urge you all, as good Nigerians, to take a personal interest in promoting and maintaining peace in your respective neighbourhoods during the elections. This is certainly not a time to allow personal, religious, sectional or party interests to drive us to desperation, he said. The president appealed to the youth not allows themselves to be used to cause violence and destruction, saying that the people who want to incite you are those preparing the ground for discrediting the elections. Having lost the argument, they fear losing the elections. He said when Nigerians elected him in 2015, it was essentially in consequence of his promise of CHANGE, stressing that we committed ourselves to improving security across the country, putting the economy on a sound footing and tackling rampant corruption, which had in many ways become a serious drawback to national development. Our Government spent the last 3 years and 9 months striving faithfully to keep this promise, in spite of very serious revenue shortages caused mainly by a sharp drop in international oil prices and an unexpected rise in the vandalisation of oil installations, which, mercifully have now been curtailed. According to Buhari, our choices have had consequences about employment and cost of living. In making your choice this time, please ask yourself whether, and in what ways, others will do anything different to address the issues of Agriculture, Infrastructure, Security, Good Governance and Fighting Corruption. The road to greater prosperity for Nigeria may be long, but what you can be assured of is a Leadership that is not prepared to sacrifice the future well-being of Nigerians for our own personal or material needs. You can be assured of my commitment to remain focused on working to improve the lives of all Nigerians. Yesterday, there was a shocking report of youth along Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway on rampage, setting fire all around the highways over yet another of the several killings that have happened since the elections: officers of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) shot dead an alleged Yahoo boy. Internet fraudsters are popularly known as Yahoo boys. And by law, they commit financial fraud, which is only to be tackled by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The history of the FSARS shows a that of brutality and crime against humanity than those of armed robbers they are meant to arrest and investigate. When you meet SARS field officers, you see much recklessness attached to them. Aside the fact that they brutalize both innocents and suspects, they are a bunch of extortionists. Their brutality and extortion explains why the hashtag #ENDSARS became so popular and led to mass actions that civil society were part of. And last year, the Federal government curbed the excesses of the FSARS teams and took them away from the streets. But as the new Inspector General of Police emerged, he returned SARS to the streets. While the effect of the return of the notorious police team was not felt during the elections, mainly because of the political momentum, the SARS members soon start showing their bestial nature as soon as elections round up. Students, corp members, and youths now complain of harassments, torture, and extortions. Good sense must dictate our collective response to the return of the notorious FSARS teams. We must understand, on the primal, the historical importance of the militia forces to our rulers. They serve mainly, in the late Ibadan political godfather Lamidi Adedibus words, as thuugi Ijoba. That sage of a thug himself recognized the militia forces as government thugs! Second, we must understand that youth restiveness, yahoo yahoo, and some other enormous street crimes are caused majorly by mass poverty and unemployment. Nigeria is a country that is fast shifting into the neo-liberal era that is crude in the quest for primitive accumulation. Stinking profits are placed far more than peoples lives. The fact that we believe we can win anti-state battles through advocacy and a one-off struggle is faulty when faced with the current reality of the return of the barbarians. I remember my long debate with @Segalinks stressed the fact that only system change can make us win permanent battles against the ruling class especially in the vital case of using police teams like SARS to send down mass fear into especially the army of jobless youths who might think of uniting and fighting them who are the sources of our sorrows. The way to go now is to return to the barricades. Those are the places where we can freely team up and collectively defeat the barbarians coming back. Our hash tag must be retweeted! While we all prepare for this collective battle, I recommend that we start studying the resilience of the French youths in their #Yellowvests. We must fight beyond SARS to unemployment; education underfunding; bad healthcare; VAT increments and other anti-people taxes; few and expensive housing; and many other austerity and hardships. We must alongside workers demand for the implementation of a living wage, and join the coming May with grand rallies by Left forces in the Coalition for Revolution (CORE) and some other trusted alliances. We are condemned, as a generation, out of this relative anomalies, to fulfil the missions we now find in our hands. But if we decide to wait till e reach our bones, as Fela warned; they will continue to kill us ten times before our grave!!! *** Written by Kunle Wizeman Ajayi President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday approved the appointment of Hafsat Bakari as the Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, pending her confirmation by the Senate. Bakari replaces Modibbo Tukur who was relieved of his job by Tinubu in June 2023. The appointment was contained in a statement by Tinubus Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity), Ajuri Ngelale. Bakari was described as a lawyer and financial intelligence expert with years of experience in anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and counter-proliferation financing. Before her appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, she served as Deputy Director at the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and was at different times the Head of the General Services Unit; Head of the Strategy and Reorientation Unit, and Head of the Board Secretariat of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The statement added that Tinubu, anticipates that Ms. Bakare will bring her wealth of experience and expertise to full discharge in this critical role, especially in view of his administrations war against illicit financial flows and other sharp practices currently prevalent in segments of the nations foreign exchange markets The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged residents of the Command area in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State to use alternative routes to their respective destinations due to the early morning rain that caused floods on major roads. The downpour, which started around 2 am and 5 am in some areas and spread across the state, lasted a few minutes before 10 am on Tuesday. Residents of the Command area were also cautioned against using the Command bridge because it has been submerged by the flood. Korea's No. 1 container shipper HMM said Wednesday it has clinched a "leadership score" in climate change from a global sustainable management ratings agency. Last year, HMM received an A- score from Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) in the climate change category for its better eco-friendly management, the shipping firm said. It is the second-highest on CDP's eight-level rating scale. A CDP score provides a snapshot of a company's disclosure and environmental performance. In addition, it is higher than the global average of C and the mean score of B- for the maritime transportation industry, HMM said. "The latest CDP score attests to HMM's environmentally-friendly management," a company official said. "The company will deal actively with global environmental regulations and ramp up efforts to secure future competitiveness." HMM began to participate in the CDP program in 2010. CDP scores are divided into four levels: leadership (A/A-), management (B/B-), awareness (C/C-) and disclosure (D/D-). To earn an A score from CDP, businesses and organizations must show environmental leadership, disclosing action on climate change, deforestation or water security. In January this year, HMM was named the best eco-friendly shipping company at the Green Shipping Summit 2024 held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. (Yonhap) The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, has secured the conviction and sentencing of two undergraduates of Obafemi Awolowo University, and four others to various jail terms for their involvement in internet fraud. This was disclosed in a statement on the official X handle of the EFCC on Tuesday. According to the statement, the undergraduates, Gbolahan Adesina and Perekebena Micah, were docked before Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel of the Federal High Court, Osogbo on a lone-count separate charge. The four others, Sholagbade Olanrewaju, Qudus Baba, Akinpelu Opeyemi and John Adeyemo, were arraigned before Justices O.A. Adetujoye and S.O. Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan also on a one-count separate charge. The statement disclosed that Adesinna and Micah are among the eleven undergraduates of OAU arraigned on November 6, 2023 before Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel where they all pleaded not guilty to the charges read to them, and the cases were adjourned for trial. The statement read, Upon their arraignment on November 6, 2023, they all pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them and the cases were adjourned for trial. At the resumed proceeding of the matter on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, prosecution counsel, Umar Abiso informed the court that Adesina and Micah were ready to change their pleas. Consequently, they were re-arraigned and pleaded guilty when the amended charges were read to them. Also, four other convicts pleaded guilty to the one count charge filed against them by the EFCC. After listening to the counsels, Justice Ayo-Emmanuel convicted and sentenced Adesina and Micah to one-year imprisonment each without an option of fine, while Olanrewaju, Atanda, Opeyemi, and Adeyemo bagged two weeks of community service each. The statement added that the convicts were also ordered to restitute their various victims and forfeit all items recovered from them to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The Nigeria Police Force has alerted citizens of cyber criminals using peoples NIN to register telephone numbers for cybercrime activities. The police, therefore, provided tips to secure peoples identity from being linked to crime The National Cubercrime Center of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF-NCCC), therefore, provided Cyber Security Tips. According to the NPF-NCCC, steps to secure your identity from being linked to crime include the following: * Step 1: Dial *996#. this is applicable to all networks * Step 2: MTN and GLO users, press 2 (View numbers linked to NIN and 9Mobile users, press 4 (View linked numbers); AIRTEL users, press 3 (View linked numbers) * Step 3: An sms will be sent with all numbers linked to your NIN. * Any phone number, linked to your NIN that you do not recognize should be blocked or deleted; visit the office of your network provider for deactivation. * report to the Nigeria Police National Cybercrime center. The police further provided telephone numbers and email for reports. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced plans to distribute seized food items to Nigerians to curb the worsening hardship being witnessed in the country. Recall that many Nigerians had taken to the streets in some parts of the country to protest the current hardship and the high cost of food items. Responding to the critical challenges of food security and the soaring costs of essential food items in Nigeria, Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, in a statement issued by the service National Public Relations, CSC Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed readiness to dispose of food items forfeited to the Federal Government. The Comptroller General said the distribution will be done after all the food items have been certified fit for human consumption. According to him, the commitment is deeply rooted in the Service core mandate of serving Nigerias best interests and fostering economic stability. He said the urgent imperative fuels the need for a proactive stance to safeguard food availability within Nigeria and alleviate the detrimental effects of scarcity on citizens. He added, Furthermore, to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians and improve access to essential food items, the Nigeria Customs Service will facilitate the direct disposal of food items forfeited to the Federal Government. These items will be certified fit for consumption by relevant agencies and made available to ordinary Nigerians nationwide through equitable distribution in our Areas of Operations. The modalities for the disposal will be communicated through NCS formations nationwide, with a firm commitment to transparency, fairness, and public safety. It is our pledge that this exercise will be managed diligently to ensure that the benefits reach those most in need. The NCS remains resolute in its dedication to safeguarding the nations food security and advancing the economic well-being of all Nigerians. With the unwavering support and cooperation of the public, we will surmount these challenges and pave the way for a more prosperous future for our beloved nation. The federal government has explained why it summoned a meeting with cement manufacturers. It said the reason is because of the surging price of cement nationwide. The meeting was held on Monday. The governments apprehension stems from its efforts to enhance the cement sub-sector, aimed at reducing reliance on imported cement and achieving self-sufficiency, possibly leading to becoming a net exporter, which now appear to be jeopardized. The Minister of Works, David Umahi and the Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite separately invited the main manufacturers, Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc and Lafarge Africa Plc to a meeting to discuss the issues involved with a view of finding an enduring solution to the surging prices. The two meetings were collapsed into one that was held at the Works Ministers office where the position and concerns of the government were laid bare before the manufacturers. The three manufacturers as well as the Chairman of the Cement Manufacturing Association were strongly represented at the meeting which took three hours of extensive deliberation. Umahi, in his opening remarks expressed shock at the turn of event after being assured by the manufacturers that his alternative to road construction will be hugely supported by price-friendly cement availability. The Industry, Trade and Investment Minister, on the other hand was perturbed that the Backward Integration Program (BIP), to which the cement sub-sector was a beneficiary seems to be of little effect despite governments huge investment in the scheme. Umahi said: The essence of this meeting is the concern of the public and also the fact that this Ministry since the month of August, 2023 has been preaching on how we can utilize our local context in the construction of our roads. Its been a National discourse and a subject that stirred a lot of controversy. At a time we thought we were winning. We now have this jump and I think some of the people that fought us will be laughing at us. You said the concrete route is going to be cheaper than asphalt and you said because there are a lot of factors that make the increase in asphalt cost to be geometric and that of concrete to be arithmetic. But now its the other way around. So, we have called for this meeting to find out why and from security report, the X factory price, though increased to a point of concern, still has a very wide margin to that of the market prices. So, we like to find out what are the X factory prices before this sudden increase and what are the market prices as at now and whether you have control of the market prices. And also, to find out, what can we do, today (Monday) and going forward. Uzoka-Anite expressed the concern of the government about what could be responsible for the seeming lack of BIP effect on the prevailing cement price situation despite huge commitment to the scheme by the government. While calling for honest intervention in reducing the price of cement and secure the future of Nigeria, she said: Just like the Honorable Minister said, we are very concerned about the surging prices in everything, including cement. And for us, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment regulates the development of cement. You were one of the Backward Integration Programme (BIP) pilot schemes that was initiated by the Ministry and we think that the cement sector is actually a success story of the BIP. But to our own also shock, we saw that despite the cement, most of the components being sourced are produced locally, we are seeing your prices going up and even surging. Its not going up small small, its actually leaping and sometimes even doubling. And it was also important for us to call you back to the table to understand from different points of view. One, why this surging? Given the fact that the whole idea of having cement and giving the BIP the push in cement production was to ensure that we could manage prices and manage the development of the sector. And then secondly, from the consumer protection standpoint to also understand also the price imputes into your pricing mechanism. And basically, also look at the competition issues, whether we have an issue of collusion because you guys are just the three producers. And usually when you have an oligopoly you have competition issues and you have collusion amongst the participants and all of those issues are of keen interest to the Ministry. In addition to the concern that the Minister of Works has his input or his key input to the sector and to the vision that he has for the construction industry. So, its a very important area and a very important sector for us. Cement, as you know, is the backbone for anything construction, that is infrastructure development, which we have a deficit in and which we really, really need to support development and bridge the infrastructure gap or to affordable housing to just name it. Its so critical that we cant afford to close our eyes and not intervene in the sector. The purpose of government meeting is when we understand what your challenges are. If there are bottlenecks that we can remove to support them, we would. And if there are conversations that we need to have that we are not even privy to, that is peculiar to your industry that has come up since BIP took off those conversations, we can have them now and with a view to resolving all the issues and ensuring that we maintain steady pricing, bring down the price if we can, because we dont want to be forced to come and start doing your price metrics to understand the cost of your input and all of that. We have a common understanding of what we need to do as joint stakeholders and partners in the development of this country and then forge one common front forward as participants and as well as stakeholders in the industrialization and development of the country. So basically, this is also the reason why we are participating in the meeting. We can even reinforce and strengthen our voice as government and then listen to the same, its the same common problem, its the same common solutions that we also come up with here. Among other resolutions, the manufacturers agreed to peg the price of a 50kg bag of cement at between N70,000 and N80,000 depending on the location nationwide. A price control mechanism was also agreed to be put in place by the manufacturers to prevent unilateral manipulation of the new price regime. It was also decided that the price would undergo further downward review once the government fulfills its commitment to resolving the challenges encountered by the manufacturers. Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, confirmed that the National Universities Commission, (NUC), has approved the establishment of three more faculties for the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro. Governor Oborevwori announced the NUCs approval for the establishment of the Faculties of Basic Medical Sciences, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences, when he received on a solidarity and congratulatory visit, a delegation of leaders and traditional rulers from Isoko nation, at Government House, Asaba. The Governor thanked the Isoko nation for their support and for being worthy in-laws, assuring that his administration would continue to do everything within its powers to develop all parts of the state. I appreciate this visit because it is long overdue. I know the support that you people gave to me and I made some promises that I am still keeping till today. The Chief of Staff was the first person I appointed from Isoko nation. I have given key appointments to the Isoko nation. I am happy that you have come to congratulate me on our victory at the Supreme Court. You have also come with some requests. I have taken note of all the requests you made. Like I promised, I am going to be Governor for all Deltans and I am doing just that. We are doing our best. If you drive through the Oleh Roundabout, you will smile because it has changed. We need unity and peace in Delta State. Governor Oborevwori assured that he would not do anything to undermine the Isoko people, especially in the area of education. He said the three new faculties approved by the NUC for the University reflected his desire to ensure that Isoko nation continued to enjoy a pride of place in the delivery of his administrations MORE Agenda. READ ALSO: NUC releases list of 58 fake universities operating in Nigeria (Full list) He said he had also resolved the issues surrounding the Isoko Development Union (IDU) Youth Wing. Earlier, the President of the Isoko Development Union, IDU, Professor Chris Akpotu, said the delegation visited to congratulate the Governor on his victory at the Supreme Court and to also discuss further areas for Isoko development. We are here to visit you as our very great in-law and to congratulate you on your tortuous journey from the election to the tribunal and up to the Supreme Court. We appreciate your political benevolence in appointing our illustrious sons and daughters into political positions, Akpotu said. He commended Governor Oborovweri for the ongoing works on the Ughelli Asaba road and urged him to facilitate the completion of the Isoko Circular road, particularly the Ofagbe Ovrode Road and the reconstruction of Uzere Asaba-Ase Road and Olomoro Igbide Road. Speaking to journalists shortly after the visit, Professor Akpotu said that many issues were discussed in relation to the present concerns in Isoko nation and everything is in the right shape; its an ongoing discussion. Also speaking, the member representing Isoko North, Isoko South Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, said he would collaborate with the State Government to provide a conducive environment for teaching and learning. The bandits in large numbers, invaded the village around 9pm on Monday, February 19, 2024, while shooting indiscriminately to scare away residents. Nine persons have been killed while 27 others were kidnapped as bandits stormed Makera village of Talata-Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State. An indigene of the area, Mohammed Garba, told the Punch on Tuesday that the bandits in large number, invaded the village around 9pm on Monday, February 19, 2024, while shooting indiscriminately to scare away residents. According to Garba, the bandits were in the village for several hours where they went from house to house and abducted 53 people. He stressed that nine people who tried to escape the abduction were killed on the spot. We were about to go to bed when the bandits entered into our village and began to shoot indiscriminately as a result of which, many people escaped to the forest, he said. Others who did not run to the forest hid in their houses but unfortunately, the bandits went from house to house and abducted 53 people according to the head count we conducted. Similarly, the bandits also shot to death, nine people who wanted to run away or who refused to be abducted. Garba maintained that his four children were among those abducted by the bandits. He said that the bandits have yet to reach out to the community for ransom. He expressed disgust over the issue, calling on the state government to do something urgent to protect the lives and property of the people of the area. According to him, residents of the community were trying their best to protect themselves, lamenting that, the bandits came to the village in large numbers. We were overpowered by the bandits who were in large numbers. We tried our best to chase away the bandits but because they came in hundreds, we were not able to defeat them. The victims were laid to rest on Wednesday. Aloma DMW Davidos former aide, Aloma DMW, has said that most Nigerians are not supporting the Tinubu-led administration because their candidate did not emerge victorious in the 2023 polls. He claimed that this is the reason for some of the problems being faced in the country. He believes that Nigerias problems date back to 60 years ago and it cannot be solved in only eight months. Even though he admits the problems are too much, he asks that Nigerians come together to assist the government in tackling them. He wrote; Part of the problem were facing in this country is if our favorite did not win were going to find a way not to support the government just to prove a point. Either you like it or not this country will work out and will be great you dont expect to fix 60 years+ problem in 8month. Truth be told the suffering is too much but well need to find a way out together and help the government. Nigeria belongs to all of us. See Post Below; Muhammadu Buhari The immediate-past president, Muhammadu Buhari has denied reports that he approved a settlement agreement with Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited over the Mambilla hydroelectric power project. This revelation follows a similar denial by former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, who also refuted claims of authorising a build, operate and transfer contract with Sunrise Power in 2003. The dispute over the Mambilla project, intended to construct a 3,050MW plant in Taraba State, escalated when Sunrise Power initiated arbitration against Nigeria at the ICC International Court of Arbitration in Paris, France, on October 10, 2017. The company sought a $2.354 billion award for an alleged breach of contract related to the 2003 agreement. In defense, the Nigerian government accused the award of the contract of being marred by fraud and corruption. Efforts to resolve the matter led to a settlement agreement in January 2020, orchestrated by then Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. The agreement committed the federal government to pay Sunrise Power $200 million within 14 days, with a penalty clause of 10 percent for any default, in addition to reinstating Sunrise as the local content partner for the project. However, internal communications revealed that Buhari refused to sanction the $200 million payment to Sunrise Power, citing financial constraints. FG does not have USD 200 million to pay SPTCL, Buhari reportedly responded to Malamis request for approval. Malamis subsequent efforts to renegotiate the settlement were attributed to the economic fallout from the global pandemic. Despite an apparent out-of-court settlement agreement reached to halt the arbitration, the proceedings were not terminated. Buharis recent communication with the current AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, as seen by TheCable, underscores his stance that he never authorised any form of settlement with Sunrise Power. Buhari wrote in a letter to the AGF, The Mambilla project was one of the key projects that I wanted to complete under my administration, but the project was bedevilled by a myriad of issues, mostly inherited. While I understood that my ministers of justice, power and water resources were approached by Sunrise and were engaging with various stakeholders that were involved in the project to resolve the issues blocking the projects implementation, at no time did I specifically instruct them to enter into and conclude any settlement agreement with Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited. Indeed, when the proposed settlement agreement and addendum were presented to me for my consideration and approval on 20th April 2020, I refused to approve the settlement deal because I was convinced that there was no basis for Sunrises claim. Three suspected cable thieves, Babatunde Murutu, Segun Lawal, and Adebayo Iyanu, have been arrested by the police in the Ojodu area of Lagos state. Police spokesman in the state, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest on his verified X handle, @benHundeyin, on Wednesday. Hundeyin said that the police arrested the trio during a stop-and-search operation. At about 3:20 a.m., officers of Ojodu Division on midnight patrol stopped the three men from searching for the contents of their bags. They found cables, screwdrivers, and scissors. Further interrogation and investigation revealed that they had just stolen the cables from a building in the neighbourhood, he said. According to the image maker, the suspects are to be arraigned at the conclusion of investigation. (NAN) Pastor Tomi Arayomi UK-based Nigerian Pastor, Tomi Arayomi has said that what is happening to the Tinubu-led administration is what happens when one gets into medical school by stealing someone elses exam papers. Commenting on the current hardship experienced in Nigeria, Pastor Tomi attached his 2023 prophecy which went viral before the presidential election of that year. He warned against election theft during the prophecy, saying that whoever steals the election will watch Nigeria feel like sand in their hands. According to him, there would be frustration in the land and this would lead to nationwide protests. See Video Below; By Lee Hyo-sik Musinsa, Korea's largest online fashion shopping platform, hosted its second Tokyo showroom event from Feb. 13 to 16, featuring seven brands Glowny, Kijun, Rockfish Weatherwear, Rest and Recreation, Standoil and Cost per kilo, company officials said Wednesday. This initiative aimed to introduce K-fashion brands to the Japanese market and foster partnerships with distributors there. The showroom, located in the upscale Minami-Aoyama area, known for its luxury boutiques and global fashion brand shops, attracted over 150 buyers from diverse distribution channels. They include renowned fashion select shops like GR8, Beams and United Arrows to major department stores such as Isetan and Hankyu. More than 70 percent of the buyers who attended the showroom had also come to the spring and summer season Tokyo showroom last July, which suggests there is a growing interest in Korean fashion products. More than half of these returning buyers made purchases during the event. "Through this showroom [event], we once again realized that the uniqueness of K-fashion brands is competitive enough for the Japanese market. We remain committed to actively supporting our brands' expansion into Japan through various distribution channels," a company official said. Buyers showed keen interest in potential collaborations with brands, including launching pop-up stores and beauty products. Some even inquired about partnerships with brands that did not participate in the event. A buyer from Beams, a prominent Japanese fashion select shop, said, "As Musinsa is a leading fashion vertical platform in South Korea, there were high expectations for the brands presented at [its] Tokyo showroom. It was a great opportunity to see K-fashion brands with sufficient competitiveness in the Japanese market and gain insights into the current fashion trends in Korea." Press Statement At a recent media appearance, the suspended LP National Treasurer, Ms. Oluchi Oparah, alleged that the LP National Chairman Mr Julius Abure, while on a fundraising tour in the United States in August 2023, Mr. Abure and his cronies raised hundreds of thousands of dollars from the partys diaspora community. To date, he has not declared a single dollar to me or the NWC, essentially stealing donations meant for the partys development. Indeed, not a single cent from donations received was ever paid into any of the partys accounts,.The Labour Party (LP) USA Chapter categorically refutes this allegation as baseless and uninformed. Mr Abures visit to the United States was to acquaint and debrief with LP faithful and Obidients, and not for fundraising. It is important to clarify that funds raised by the diaspora, during Mr. Abures visit were strictly designated for logistical purposes, including local travels, conferences, receptions, accommodations, and related expenses, and was entirely managed by the planning committee. Mr Abure neither asked for nor received any funds from the LP USA Chapter. The Labour Party USA Chapter remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct. We call upon all stakeholders to refrain from spreading false information and instead focus on advancing our shared objectives of serving the interests of the Nigerian people. In conclusion, we affirm our unwavering support for our Presidential candidate Mr Peter Obi and his call for an independent audit of Labour Partys finances and ascertain her true financial health. Until then, we urge the public to disregard the false narrative being peddled by individuals with vested interests and remain steadfast in our commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria. Best Regards Professor Eddie Oparaoji, Chairman Related The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially confirmed the arrest of Julius Abure, the National Chairman of the Labour Party. Abures arrest occurred on Wednesday afternoon in Benin City, the capital of Edo State. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday evening, Tijani Momoh, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force Zone 5, disclosed that Abure was detained on charges of attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, and associated offenses. Momoh elaborated that Abure and four others were apprehended based on a petition filed against them by an undisclosed petitioner. As Momoh stated, There are video clips, recordings of the petitioner being assaulted, being beaten when he came home last year to conduct ward matters. It is a case of attempted murder, conspiracy, illegal possession of arms and other related offences. The police spokesperson highlighted that during the arrest, the individuals were found in possession of firearms, specifically a short gun and three rounds of ammunition. He concluded by affirming that investigations are currently underway, with further details to be provided in due course. Four prominent Edo All Progressives Congress governorship contenders have expressed their disapproval of Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as Chairman of the Elections Committee. Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Chief Lucky Imasuen, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and General Charles Airhiavbere (retd.) voiced their lack of confidence in his ability to oversee a fair and transparent election, citing concerns stemming from the controversy surrounding the previous poll. Their stance emerged just 24 hours ahead of the scheduled rerun of the governorship primary in the state, following the inconclusive nature of the initial election announced by the APC after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Tuesday. The first poll, held on February 17, saw conflicting declarations of winners, with Uzodimma announcing Dennis Idahosa as the winner, while Stanley Ugboaja, the returning officer, declared Monday Okpebholo as the winner. Another declaration by Ojo Babatunde named Anamero Dekeri as the winner, claiming to represent the returning officers from all local governments. In a joint statement reacting to the rerun, the four aspirants emphasized their loss of faith in Uzodimmas committee to conduct a credible election. They argued that his actions did not align with the electoral laws and the APC Constitutions provisions, calling for his replacement by a more respected party member. Their statement conveyed their plea to the President, Bola Tinubu, to intervene, urging him to appoint a chairman who would uphold the law, preserve internal democracy, and safeguard the partys integrity and reputation. They concluded by expressing confidence in the Presidents commitment to justice and fairness, trusting that he would ensure a transparent process in selecting the partys gubernatorial candidate for Edo State and securing victory in the forthcoming September 2024 governorship election. President Yemi Osinbajo has distanced its office from claims by the Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria that his office is in charge of the controversial Ruga Settlement intiative for Fulani herdsmen across the country. In a tweet by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice-President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande on Friday, he explained that the programme being handled by Osinbajo was different from the one being referred to by Miyetti Allah. Recall that the General Secretary of MACBAN, Baba Uthman Ngelzarma, had said Osinbajos office was in charge of implementing the programme nationwide. He had said, This Ruga settlement model is a component part of the livestock development and transformation plan that is being implemented under the Office of the Vice-President. It is a component part of it. But Akande clarified that the National Livestock Transformation Plan, which had been endorsed by the National Economic Council, was different from the Ruga programme. He tweeted, Contrary to claims reported in sections of the media, Ruga settlements are not being supervised by the Office of the Vice President. Ruga is different from the National Livestock Transformation Plan approved by state governors under the auspices of the National Economic Council. On the National Livestock Transformation Plan, 13 States are already in the process of implementation of a plan to transform the livestock production system in Nigeria along market-oriented value chain while ensuring an atmosphere of peace and justice. The states are Adamawa, Benue, Kaduna, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Kogi, Kwara, Ondo, and Edo. These states are at different stages in the process but have indicated readiness to implement the plan. Truth is: this Federal Government will not impose on any state government regarding its land. NEC okayed the plan based on the recommendation of a technical committee of the council chaired by Ebonyi State Governor Umahi. Other state governors who were on the committee and working group are Adamawa, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Oyo and Zamfara-mostly the frontline states. Olayinka Omigbodun Olayinka Omigbodun is the immediate-past Head of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and an honorary consultant in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to the University College Hospital, Ibadan. The pioneering director at the universitys Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, which started with funding from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, tells ALEXANDER OKERE about motivation, career and family For how long have you been a professor and how would you describe your experience as an academic? I became a professor on October 1, 2008; that was 11 years ago. I actually qualified as a psychiatrist in 1991 but the university would not give me a job. Fortunately, my husband got a fellowship position in the United States in 1993, so I travelled to the US with the family. I did not take up an academic position with the university until I returned in 1997. It has been very eventful since I started working at the University of Ibadan. I started my career in child and adolescent psychiatry in 1986 as a resident under the tutelage of (the late) Prof Michael Oludare Olatawura and did part of my residency in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Were you educated in Nigeria? I started nursery school in Lagos at the Adrao International School, Victoria Island, Lagos. I was living with my parents at that time in Lagos. My father was in the army at the time and my mother was a housewife. My mother was a Sierra Leonean and my father was a Nigerian. We left for Sierra Leone a day before the civil war broke out. In Sierra Leone, I attended the Holy Rosary Primary School, Kenema, about 300 miles from Freetown. I was there for two years before we moved to Freetown, where I attended St. Annes Primary School for one year. When the war ended in 1970, we returned with my mum to Nigeria and I attended the Staff School, University of Ibadan. I spent three years at the school before I moved to St. Louis Grammar School, Mokola, Ibadan. Then I had my advanced levels for two years at the International School, University of Ibadan, and gained admission to UI through direct entry to study Medicine and Surgery in 1980. In 1990, one of my senior professors, Olabisi Odejide, asked me whether I would like to have some exposure abroad; that was when I moved to England. I lived in Lancaster and worked at the Lancaster Moor Hospital. I was also at the Queens Park Hospital, in Blackburn. I obtained a diploma in Psychiatry from the Victorian University of Manchester in 1992. While I was in the UK, I flew into Nigeria for my final fellowship examinations in the West African College of Physicians in the Faculty of Psychiatry and the National Postgraduate College of Medicine in Psychiatry in 1991. By 1993, I was in the US at the Department of Family Studies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, training and working as a family and relationship therapist. I also did some research in the Bipolar Disorders Unit. I must say that having training exposure on three continents really enriched me. Was it a personal decision to study Psychiatry? Yes. When I got to medical school, I thought I would do paediatrics. However, on the first day of my rotation at the paediatrics ward, I decided that I could not do it anymore because seeing sick children was too traumatic for me and I didnt think I would be able to handle them. So, I took my mind of that specialty until I got to the Psychiatry rotation; it was wonderful. I was fascinated by patients who had mental health conditions; some of them heard the voices of people they could not see while some were very depressed. I remember meeting a man who was partially paralysed because he had fallen from a three-storey building when he was depressed and had attempted suicide. I met interesting patients with different stories. I also found that in psychiatry, we dont just deal with a part of the body but with the whole patient, with their family and community and work; in psychiatry, we learned to carry out holistic assessments of patients and their families and I found this very interesting. It was in-depth work. That was why I decided to do Psychiatry. I am grateful to my mother, Mrs Taiwo Joyce Banjo (nee George), who passed on over 20 years ago. I had a lot of opposition in my choice of Psychiatry. Many of my uncles told me to look for a more respectful specialty, like Obstetrics and Gynaecology or Paediatrics, but my mother told me to do what I was going to be comfortable with because I would live with myself for the rest of my life. She encouraged me to get into Psychiatry and Ive never looked back. Did you face any opposition when you choose your area of specialisation? A lot of people, including medical doctors, said I might lose my mind while working with people with mental health challenges. They didnt understand. My husband, who was my fiance then, also expressed concern about my decision. I had a lot of people discouraging me not to do Psychiatry but I held on to my dream and Ive had no regrets since then. What was childhood like for you? I was born in 1963. My parents met each other while they were studying in the UK. My father, the late Lieutenant Colonel Victor Banjo, was from Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. He joined the army in 1953 and was the 16th Nigerian to be commissioned an officer. He met my mother while he was training at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, UK. They had their first two children in the UK and returned to Nigeria. I was born at the UCH, Ibadan, even though my parents lived in Lagos. My early childhood was spent in Lagos but it was short-lived. My father was arrested on January 17, 1966, and he never came back home. Our lives were never the same again, so we left for Sierra Leone; we suffered a drop in our socioeconomic status and it was quite difficult, especially for my mother. My father was executed sometime in September 1967 and so my mother had to care for us on her own. She gave us the very best childhood we could ever have within her means. Financially, it was a big struggle. Before my fathers arrest, she was a stay-at-home mum and had four children. I must add that my father was arrested unjustly because, up till now, nobody has accused him of anything. He was just arrested; we were told that he participated in the January 1966 coup. But everybody knows that is not true because those who participated in the coup came out to say he was not among them. It was a lot of suffering for my mum to look after us, especially because she had never worked out of the home. But she gave us love and security and these are what children really need. How did you hear about his death? After my father was arrested in 1966, he was kept in Kirikiri Prison for a short while and transferred to a prison at Ikot Ekpene (Akwa Ibom State). From there, he was taken to another prison in Enugu State. I have the evidence because I have all the letters he wrote to my mum some were censored and some were not. My mother wrote several letters to the then Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon (retd.), pleading with him to release my father. My father was in Enugu when the war broke out. He and (the late Chief Odumegwu) Ojukwu were friends; in many of his letters, he mentioned Ojukwu as someone he cared for. I was made to understand that my father fought in the Biafran army for one Nigeria; he felt a certain part of the country had dominated the other parts of the country and he was quite clear about it even in his letters. He wanted to put an end to the dominance of one part of Nigeria over the others. I was made to understand that, unfortunately, he led an army that did not have many resources and he was used as a scapegoat when the Biafran army was about to collapse. His friend the late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu ordered his execution. We were told that Enugu was overrun by the federal army 24 hours after my father was executed. Up till now, we dont have any specific communication from his employer about where he is and whether he was killed or not. The people who executed him appeared to have been made heroes; (Nigeria is) a very interesting country. Do you think career women find it difficult combining their jobs with homemaking? I actually disagree with that. I think an intelligent woman will be able to balance her life. Studies have shown that the intelligence of children is closely linked to that of their mothers. More importantly, an intelligent woman is better able to create a positive environment for her family. She will know when to slow down and when to pick up. My husband finished his training as an obstetrician and gynaecologist in 1987 and I qualified as a psychiatrist four years later. He became a professor in 1997 and I became a professor 11 years after. It was not because I was less brilliant but because I had to make decisions for the family. There is time for everything. What are the administrative positions you have held as a psychiatrist? Between 2010 and 2014, I was President, International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions; I am the first and only African to hold that position in the 82-year history of the global body with member organisations from over 65 countries. I was the pioneer president of the African Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health between 2007 and 2014. I was a chief examiner for the Faculty of Psychiatry in the West African College of Physicians from 2012 to 2016. I was also the pioneering Head, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, UCH, Ibadan, from 2009 to 2017. What motivates you to work hard? What motivates me is the belief that I am not working for man but for God and that God wants me to be excellent in all I do; He rewards excellence, so I am striving to be a better person each day. In the areas that God has given me, I make sure that I do the very best. The other motivation is my belief in Nigeria. Despite the way past governments have treated my family I dont think they have treated us well, especially the way my dad was cast aside I still believe in this country and invest my time doing things that will make it better. What was your most challenging moment? My most challenging moment was when my mother died in 1997. I was, somehow, shattered because my mother had been a widow for many years and suffered a lot. Just as we were beginning to be able to make her comfortable, she died. What is your sweetest experience so far? Having two wonderful children is my sweetest experience. They are high-fliers and both have a strong faith in Jesus Christ. Our children have made us proud. I also have a son-in-law, also a high-flier with a strong faith in Christ. How easy or difficult was it for you to be convinced that your husband was suitable for you? I had liked my husband even before he noticed me. I was a medical student and he was a resident doctor; I always admired him from a distance. He was a decent guy and very handsome. I had a distant crush on him and we have similar names his name is Akinyinka and I am Olayinka. I felt very privileged when he asked me to be his wife. How did your mum react to his proposal? My mother liked him. I wouldnt marry a man my mother didnt like. I was very close to my mother; so, if she didnt like a man, that man was out. *** Source: Saturday Punch David Lyon The Supreme Court has dismissed an application for review of the judgment which sacked the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa state, David Lyon and his deputy, Senator Biobarakuma Degi-Eremienyo. Giving its ruling on Wednesday, Justice Amina Augie said the application lacked merit and the decisions of the court are final. She added that the applicants failed to point out errors, stating that the judgment is final for all ages. The apex court judge said the judgment is final in the real sense and no court on earth can review the judgment. There must be an end to litigation even if we review this judgment, every disaffected litigant will bring similar applications and the finality of Supreme Court judgments will be lost. She added that the applications are frivolous and vexatious, and awarded the cost of N10 million against the applicants to be personally paid by their counsel. Justice Augie added that the counsels of the APC and Mr Lyon are to each pay Governor Douye Diri, his deputy Mr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and the PDP the same N10 million. Details later Ogun State has continued to record rising numbers of suspected cases of Coronavirus from 28 to 39, leading to the quarantine of identified persons who had contacts the Italian victim who arrived Nigeria a week ago. The state government, however, said that the suspected persons are in stable condition, insisting that they will be isolated for 14 days. The Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, Tomi Coker, disclosed that the state government has received kits from the National Centre for Disease Control, adding that Ogun State is ready to procure more personal protective equipment for health workers on duty. The commissioner reiterated that all identified contacts with the Italian have been isolated, saying that necessary committees have been put in place. The Ogun State government has told residents of Ajegunle Egbado Ewekoro and other parts of the not to panic but understand how to protect themselves from the spread of the Virus. PV: 0 The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in Nigeria has postponed the 2020 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) indefinitely as a result of coronavirus pandemic. This was made known in a statement issued by the WAEC Nigerias Head of National Office, Mr. Patrick Areghan, on Friday, March 20, 2020. Areghan said the timetable for the examination which was earlier scheduled to commence on April 6, 2020, would be reviewed after the coronavirus pandemic situation improves. The statement reads: The West African Examinations Council in Nigeria, nay, the West African sub-region, has decided to put on hold the conduct of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for School Candidates, 2020, earlier scheduled to commence on April 6, 2020. This is as a result of the impact of the novel and deadly Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) and the serious implications it has for the conduct of the WASSCE for school candidates, 2020, coupled with the anxieties it has generated among the populace. This decision is a demonstration of the organisations concern and support for the various protocols being put in place by the Federal and State Governments of Nigeria and the governments of the other member countries to check the spread of the disease. KanyiDaily had reported that the Federal Government of Nigeria ordered the closure of all schools nationwide in a to curb the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus in the country. EFCC, on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, arraigned a banker, one Ogunleye Bamidele Ayodele before Justice Hussaini Baba Yusuf of Federal Capital Territory, FCT High Court, Maitama Abuja, for allegedly obtaining the sum of N74, 760,000 (Seventy-Four Million, Seven-Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira only), under false pretence from one Auwal A Danyaro, Chief Executive Officer, Triple-A Multi-Concept Global Ventures. The arraignment of the accused who is facing a nine-count charge, bordering on obtaining money under false pretence, followed a petition to EFCC, by the complainant who alleged that the accused, a Staff and his account officer at First City Monument Bank Plc; approached him with a bait to help him get United States Dollars from the Central Bank of Nigeria at a lower exchange rate. According to the complainant, he parted with his companys Triple-A Multi-Concept Global Ventures N74, 760,000 (Seventy-Four Million, Seven-Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira only), to the accused without the defendant buying the alleged Dollars nor refund his money. Count one of the charge reads: That you, Ogunleye Bamidele Ayodele on or about the 21st of November, 2017 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud did obtain the sum of often Million Naira only (10,000,000.000) from one Auwal A Danyaro, the Chief Executive Officer Of Triple-A multi Concept Global ventures being money transferred from his companys account number 3905025021 with First City Monument Bank Plc to one Ajayi Adeniyi Joshuas account number 4668460010 with first monument bank based on your instruction as part payment of a total sum of 74,760,000 (Seventy Four Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira only) under the false pretence that you were going to give him United State Dollars from the Central Bank of Nigeria, a fact which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offense contrary to section 1(1) (a) and punishable under section 1 (3) of the advance fee fraud and other fraud-related offenses act 2006. The defendant pleaded not guilty to all the charges and the prosecution counsel, Iwebafa Gift Odibo, asked for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant in prison custody pending a hearing. However, the defense counsel, Osuji Udoka Geraldine, told the court about a pending application for bail on behalf of her client. Justice Hussaini Baba ordered the defendant to be remanded in Kuje Prison and adjourned the matter to May 15, 2019, for bail application and May 30, 2019, for hearing. Share this: Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, on Tuesday said that the workers in the state civil service were currently being owed N57billion as arrears of unpaid salaries and emoluments. The Governor said this at a meeting he had with the civil servants as well as a cross-section of labour leaders at the Government House, Ado Ekiti. He said that his administration was making frantic efforts to defray the backlogs which he said would be done in phases. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Fayemi claimed the trend was caused by irregular payments of salaries and pensions by the immediate past administration of Mr Ayodele Fayose. He said the arrears covered outstanding salaries, pensions, promotion arrears, leave bonuses and other emoluments from 2014 till October 2018 when he assumed office. The governor also said he was not part of the people that were opposed to local government autonomy. He said the local governments in the state were currently being given unfettered access to administer their own funds without interference from his government. He said he would honour his earlier pledge to pay all the outstanding workers benefits. He clarified that some would be given immediate attention, while some would be defrayed by instalmental. Fayemi said, It is sad to reel out such a homongous figure, because it can create panic for you and I. But let me say that we cannot pay everything in one fell swoop, but the 2019 promotion arrears will be given immediate attention while others will be defrayed by installment. It becomes difficult to pay once because Ekiti gets a little above N5billion monthly, with the state getting like N3billion, while the local governments receive little above N2billion monthly , he said. On the issue of local government autonomy, Fayemi said he was never opposed to the idea of giving financial independence to the third tier of government, being the closest to the grassroots. I am not opposed to it. Since I came back as governor, not even one naira of the local government money was being administered by me. I have allowed the council to manage whatever comes to them. Some of the other labour union leaders in the state that attended the meeting include: Kolapo Olatunde of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Sola Adigun of the Trade Union Congress (TUC). They also pleaded that issues that had to do with the benefits of workers must be given utmost priority. They urged the governor to use his connection as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum to fast track the implementation of the new minimum wage for workers. Dear Cathy, I was appalled to read that you support spaying puppies as young as three months old to avoid accidental litters. That is not a good reason. Early spaying can hinder a female dog's healthy development. Preventing unwanted litters can be achieved by keeping intact female dogs away from intact males. I live with a large-dog breeder who has two intact males who have not fathered any unexpected litters. This breeder separates males from females in heat in different parts of the home/yard. I do likewise. Similarly, I have managed my female dog through her heats using dog diapers. Now that she has completed her second heat, I plan to have her spayed, ensuring her body has benefited from optimal hormonal development. My vet agrees. Check out AKC.org. Terry, Castle Rock, WA Dear Terry, Pediatric spaying and neutering, a practice that has gained significant traction over the past two decades, involves the surgical sterilization of puppies and kittens at a very young age, typically before they reach sexual maturity. This procedure has become commonplace in animal shelters and spay-neuter clinics across the United States. The development of safe techniques and advancements in anesthesia have made pediatric spaying and neutering a viable option for pet owners. The procedure is also performed by highly trained veterinary surgeons. Contrary to common misconceptions, surgical complications for animals in this age group appear no more frequently than those sterilized at the traditional age of five to seven months. Furthermore, veterinarians trained to do these surgical procedures say they can often perform them more efficiently, resulting in shorter surgery times and reduced recovery periods for the animals. Numerous studies and papers support the safety and efficacy of pediatric spay-neuter, which has been supported by reputable organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The question of whether pediatric spaying and neutering can stunt an animal's growth has been debated among veterinarians and researchers for many years. While there isn't conclusive evidence to definitively state this, the American Kennel Club suggests dogs not be fixed until after sexual maturity and states that "different breeds and different sized dogs mature at different ages, which means that early spay/neuter may not be bad for all dogs." I havent seen any health issues or stunted growth from my 65- to 100-pound dogs who were all neutered at three months old. Research has shown that pediatric spaying and neutering can also reduce the chances of certain types of cancer, especially when female dogs are spayed before their first heat cycle. In addressing your belief that people can easily prevent their dogs and cats from getting pregnant, I haven't seen evidence of that in my three decades of animal welfare work. Most dogs and cats get pregnant before the pet owner even realizes their pet is in heat. When male dogs get out of their houses and yards for a day, their owners arent making the connection that their intact dog was looking for a female in heat. Ultimately, when to spay or neuter a dog or cat should be made in consultation with ones veterinarian. If the veterinarian recommends holding off for a particular reason, then that is between the pet owner and the veterinarian. However, many veterinary clinics and animal welfare organizations promote and provide pediatric spay/neuter services as part of their efforts to promote responsible pet ownership and control animal populations. It's a safe and effective solution for reducing unwanted litters and the euthanasia of healthy pets. Dear Cathy, You recently said, Veterinarians generally recommend that dogs and cats be fixed at around six months old. Its way past time to drop that ridiculous term fixed, the implication being that something is broken. And yes, its also time to stop using the words spay and neuter together. Why are people afraid to use the C word? Females are spayed. Males are castrated. Dogs and cats of both sexes are neutered. Sue, Harwinton, Connecticut Dear Sue, I agree with you on the term fixed. Its been in my vocabulary for 30 years, so occasionally it slips out. I will try to do better. Spay and neuter," however, is a phrase used by animal groups to promote pet sterilizations. Neuter is a synonym for castrate. Some male pet owners hesitate to neuter their dogs due to concerns about the procedure's implications for their own masculinity or discomfort with the idea of castration. Using "castrate" in place of neuter would likely deter even more men from neutering their dogs. So, spay and neuter are good terms to use. _____ _____ (Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.) BLOOMINGTON A 21-year-old Bloomington man faces multiple weapon and drug charges after authorities say he was caught with two handguns, one of which was converted to a machine gun. Drederick D. Person is charged with two counts of armed violence and one count of unlawful use of weapons, Class X felonies. Person is also charged with one count of unlawful possession of cannabis with the intent to deliver, a Class 3 felony, and two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon without a Firearm Owner's Identification Card, Class 4 felonies. Assistant State's Attorney David Fitt filed a petition to deny pretrial release, arguing Person's dangerousness. Fitt said a Bloomington police officer stopped Person in a vehicle without a front license plate at 8:40 p.m. on Feb. 14. The officer then noticed Person had not been issued a valid driver's license and had an odor of cannabis coming from the vehicle. Person denied having any cannabis inside the vehicle but exited the vehicle after police requested to search it. Fitte said he repeatedly grabbed towards his waistband after he was out of the vehicle. The police searched Person and found a loaded .45-caliber handgun in his pants and a loaded .40-caliber handgun with an extended magazine and a switch device, Fitt said. The switch device converts a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic machine gun. Fitt said Person also possessed $1,272, and the police located a black colored bag on the rear floorboard of the vehicle that contained spare magazines for the firearms and 17 individual baggies contained approximately 150 grams of cannabis. The prosecutor noted Person had no prior criminal history. Fitt argued the evidence indicates Person was attempting to sell cannabis illegally and possessing two loaded firearms, one of which was converted to a machine gun, carries the implication that Person wanted to cause harm to others. Assistant Public Defender Vi-Vi Phan argued there were no allegations of violence from Person and he had no prior criminal history or failures to appear within the court, meaning he would comply with any court orders implemented. Phan said Person has lived in McLean County for most of his life and is on track to graduate from college in May. His attorney also noted he was shot in the head seven years ago and suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and insomnia. Phan said the vehicle belonged to Person's girlfriend whose driver's license was suspended at the time and it has not been proved that the firearms or cannabis belonged to him. Phan added there was no evidence regarding whether the firearms were used in a violent capacity or if the cannabis was obtained unlawfully. Judge Scott Kording determined the state provided clear and convincing evidence that Peron's release would pose a danger to others and ordered that he be held in custody pretrial. Although Person lacked any prior criminal history, no other combination of pretrial release could mitigate the danger he poses to the community and prevent him from obtaining another firearm, Kording said. An arraignment hearing for Person is scheduled for 9 a.m. March 1. It's all about the tofu donuts...and networking: Photos from Lifelong Access Business After Hours Brian Wipperman, Andy and Kathleen Shirk, Charlie Moore Anna Billingsley, Tracy Patkunas, Samantha Mlot, Brad Glenn (being photobombed by Brian Plath, Meghan O'Neal-Rogozinski, Annie Swanson) Sonja Reece, Tony Coletta, Charlie Moore Jeannine and Troy Tomlinson, Leni Kuntz Noah Lamb, HCC President Keith Cornille, Mike Fogle, Annie Swanson, Jhun Medina Billy Tyus, Ken Myszka Zach Farner, Nick Lurkins Tentac Team Karen Hanson, Aggie Hedin, Vicki Varney Brian Plath, Meghan O'Neal-Rogozinski, Nanam and Ken Myszka Suzi Nafziger, Shelleigh Birlingmair Crystal Larkin, Matt and Amy Edwards Leah Bohlmann, Cathy and Tim Hohulin, Nick Hibbs Coleen Moore, Robyn Walter Dr. Tom Nielsen, Dr. Kathy Bohn, Dax Schnaser Scott Stuart, Cedrick Fry Nicole and Trey Rogers, Bill DeProspero Shelleigh Birlingmair, Tony Coletta Kathleen Lorenz, Brad Glenn, Leni Kuntz Annie Swanson, Tracy Patkunas Marc Poirier, Ryan and Valerie Hypke, Felicia and Chuck Jiardina Chamber President/CEO Charlie Moore Lifelong Access CEO Brian Wipperman Greg Meyer, Matt Burgess Don Everhart, Nick Hibbs Crystal Larkin, Shannon McKay Troy Tomlinson, Aggie Hedin Linda Healy, Donna Sauer, Jeannine Tomlinson Bob Tennis, Shannon McKay, Charlie Farner Jay and Natalie Wendelin Leni Kuntz, Ashley Zobrist Melanie Snively, Jonell Kehias, Ashley Zobrist Troy and Jeannine Tomlinson Brian Wipperman, Ryan Fiala BLOOMINGTON A Bloomington man had been detained pending charges for possessing stolen vehicles and other charges. James L. Walden, 26, appeared in court Tuesday and is charged with two counts of possession of a stolen motor vehicle, Class 2 felonies, and driving with a license that was expired for more than a year, a Class B misdemeanor. These offenses are considered non-detainable under the Pretrial Fairness Act. Walden was previously indicted with similar charges in October 2023 and was allowed pretrial release. He is scheduled to appear in court for that case on March 6. Assistant State's Attorney David Fitt sought to revoke Walden's pretrial release for this case after he was charged in a new case, a pending, unrelated domestic violence charge. Judge Jason Chambers ruled that Walden had violated the terms of pretrial release for both of the stolen vehicle felony cases because of the unrelated domestic violence case. He ordered Walden's pretrial release be revoked and remanded him to the custody of the McLean County Detention Facility. Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson Davis, Micah S Livingston, Joshua D. Kevin L. Ewen Emmanuel K. Mpay Ahmad S. Manns Dylan R Mann Tony L. Jackson William R. Linden Zadek U. Moen Zachary T. Willis Cecily M. Sexton Tonisha A. Jackson James A. McConnaughay Jessica M. Longberry Barry D. Guyton Keon E. Spiller Melina Aguilar Carlos D. Cregan Wayne M. Damron Terrance L. Ford Stanley M. Miller Darryl R. Vinson Jarvis K. Heads Wesley M. Noonan Brad Carter Brian K. Burnett Kenneth D. Downey Kenyon J. Bones Brittany N. Greiner Maylon Tate III Maylon Tate IV BLOOMINGTON The City of Bloomington and the Illinois Department of Transportation will hold a community presentation on upcoming transportation projects Monday, Feb. 26. The presentation will be held 4-5 p.m. in Room 400 of the Government Center at 115 E. Washington St. The information session will provide residents insight on several projects, including developments on Market St. and U.S. Route 51, the work on U.S. Route 150 and Morrisey Drive that will be bid over the next several years, the work on state Route 9 and Locust St. that will be done in five construction phases over multiple years. These projects are to enhance the city's transportation infrastructure, which includes a focus on bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. The total cost is not finalized, but the overall investment is expected to exceed $100 million. Residents and business owners are encouraged to attend. Who was there? Dobski Big Game Party Cindy Segobiano, Interim ISU President Aondover Tarhule, Rose Tarhule, Mary Ann Louderback, Julie Dobski, Carla Wheeler Guests enjoying some pre-game refreshment Bob Dobski, John Burns Michael and Carla Wheeler Chuck Erickson, Cat Woods Debi and Jim Grossman (seated), Debra and Tim Leighton (standing) Don Everhart, Jr., Chuck Erickson Mary Jo Fowler chats with host Julie Dobski Mary Jo Fowler, Julie Dobski Sonja Reece, Drs. Mark and Holly Houska Melissa Isenburg Tremper, Mark Tremper Donna and Bob Day The kitchen table was a great gathering place for those guests more interested in socializing that game watching. Paula Weiland, Bob Dobski, Molly Hartrup Paula Weiland and Molly Hartrup were rooting for Taylor Swift (and her boyfriend) Fred Basolo, Julie Dobski, Marcia Basolo Julie Dobski, Nancy Brady, Aimee and Brock Spack Andrea Arduini, Leann Seal The serious football fans post up in the basement in front of the projection TV Laura and John Pritts Bernie Wright, Mike OGrady, Kevin Killian, John Burns, Jim Fruin Dan and Terri Brady, Don Everhart, Jr. Vicki and Robert Varney Cindy Myers, Paula Weiland, Jan Francois Cindy Segobiano, Jay Groves, Karen DeAngelis Cheryl Magnuson, Sherri Chinski Harlan and Brenda Geiser, Mary Jo and Mike Fowler Mary Burns, Mary Ann Louderback Rose Tarhule and ISU Interim President Aondover Tarhule enjoy a few laughs with host Bob Dobski. Micah Quinn, Annie Knapp, Jennifer Deighan, Charlie Knapp, Carla Wheeler, Don Knapp, Michael Wheeler Laura Pritts, Cat Woods, Chuck Erickson Fred and Jan Render Ed Voegele, Cheryl Magnuson, Cindy Segobiano, Judy Buchanan, Karen DeAngelis Julie Dobski, Steve Lyczak, Jodi Hallsten Lyczak CHICAGO The man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more, including children, at a Fourth of July parade in suburban Chicago in 2022 will stand trial next February, a judge ruled Wednesday. Robert Crimo III is charged with 21 counts of first-degree murder, 48 counts of attempted murder and 48 counts of aggravated battery for the shooting in Highland Park. Judge Victoria Rossetti on Wednesday scheduled his trial to begin Feb. 24, 2025. Crimo would face a mandatory sentence of life without parole if convicted of first-degree murder. Authorities have said Crimo, 23, confessed to police in the days after he opened fire from a rooftop in Highland Park, terrifying parade participants and spectators. Authorities have said he initially fled to the Madison, Wisconsin, area and contemplated a second shooting at a parade there but returned to Chicago's northern suburbs. Wednesday's scheduling decision followed several months of uncertainty about a timeline for the accused gunman's trial. Crimo fired his public defense attorneys in December, telling Judge Victoria Rossetti that he would represent himself. He also demanded an earlier trial date. But a few weeks later, he asked the judge to reinstate his attorneys. Lake County prosecutors said Wednesday that they could be prepared for an earlier start this fall. Rossetti declined, saying both sides had agreed to a February 2025 start date before Crimo's brief insistence on representing himself. Rossetti scheduled a hearing for April 24 to discuss attorneys' progress preparing for trial. The West African Examinations Council has released provisional results of 37,825 candidates who sat for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates, 2023 - Second Series. The entry figure, it said, comprised 17,389 males and 20,725 females. The figure also included 16 visually impaired candidates. A statement issued in Accra and signed by the Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi said a total of 1,231 candidates who registered for the examination were absent. The results of 289 candidates alleged to have been involved in various cases of examination malpractice have been withheld, pending the conclusion of investigations into the cases of malpractice. These malpractices include collusion, impersonation, bringing foreign materials, including mobile phones, into the examination hall and seeking external assistance among others. The withheld results of candidates will be released or cancelled based on the outcome of investigations, it said. Caution The statement also cautioned the public to be wary of scammers who contact candidates and promise to upgrade their results for a fee payable through mobile money transfers. Candidates are to note that WAEC's results database is well-secured and all results can be authenticated. Institutions and organisations are therefore advised to confirm or verify results presented to them directly from WAEC, access the confirmation/verification service online at the WAEC website or download the WAEC QR Code, it said. The Council also expressed its gratitude to all heads of school who provided accommodation for the examination, supervisors, invigilators, examiners and indeed, all partners who in various ways supported it in the successful conduct of the examination and release of results. Source: graphic.com.gh 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 InterCity State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, has commended Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his tap and go initiative. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia launched this digital initiative on Monday, February 19, at the Head Office of Metro Mass Limited. It is aimed at facilitating intra- and inter-city transport services. The Tap and Go transport service is a digital platform for multiple public transport services, including a digital card preloaded with cash that can be used to pay transport fares by tapping the card on a fixed machine on a bus or rail. It also has a virtual card option on mobile phones, which can be selected through the Tap and Go app for those who dont wish to use a physical card. Nana Akomea was super-excited for this massive boost in the services that the public transport buses provide to society. To him, this system, which is beginning with the Metro Mass buses, will eliminate the rampant conflicts over money in buses, ensure a cashless system, and provide ease in accessing transport services in Ghana. "With the combination of electric buses or battery buses and this electronic payment, Tap and Go, there will be advancement in public transport services," he extolled the programme during Peace FMs Kokrokoo morning show on Tuesday, February 20. Nana Akomea appealed to all and sundry, especially those on the political divide, to embrace this initiative, stressing it is a transformative drive in the transport sector. "It has nothing to do with elections. It has everything to do with progress," he admonished those who want to politicize the initiative. Watch video below Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/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 Professor Kofi Agyekum, popularly known as Opanyin Agyekum, has issued a caution to politicians during the campaign season as the December 2024 general elections approach. According to the former Head of the Linguistics Department, politicians must be measured in the things they say during their campaign period. Reacting to the New Patriotic Party's Campaign team inaugurated by the National Execurive Council (NEC), Opanyin Agyekum noted that, "there is nothing wrong" with having the incumbent President, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo and the former President John Agyekum Kufuor as Campaign Advisors, considering the loads of experience they will bring on board. "All persons who have been named as Campaing Team officials must be committed to the work. It is not enough to be recognised as a campaign team member. Your goal is to win Power''. ''Nonetheless, be measured in your utterenaces. One word can destroy the entire campaign. It is more painful to see your hardwork go down the drain," he added. 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 A former National Organizer of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress, Yaw Boateng Gyan, believes the 2024 General Elections is there for the taking and is for former President John Dramani Mahama's to lose. According to him, Mr. Mahama stands a better chance of winning this year's election, and he should not mess it up. Speaking on Okay FM's 'Ade Akye Abia' programme, he explained that Ghanaians will not forgive the former president if he is unable to win the election. "There is no doubt that Ghanaians are suffering, and everything points in the direction of the National Democratic Congress winning this year's general election, and I believe that if the NDC and its flagbearer, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, do things right, then I can assure you that the NDC will win the 2024 elections," he said. He added further that this is the time the NDC needs to bring in more experienced hands on board to help with the campaign process. "Everyone needs to get involved; there are people who are ready to assist John Mahama to win the elections, but I don't think they will automatically turn themselves in if you don't invite them to help in the campaign," he added. "2024 is a must-win for the NDC, and there is no way the NDC and its leader should screw this up," he added. Bawumia's Campaign Team Mr. Boateng Gyan was, however, impressed with the campaign team list of the New Patriotic Party. According to him, the list seems to bring everybody who matters in the NPP on board, and he believes that the NDC should take a cue from that and put out a decent campaign team that will help them achieve its ultimate aim. Watch Video Below Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has questioned Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's commitment to his pledge to reduce the size of his government if elected President. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, outlining his vision to Ghanaians weeks ago, stated emphatically that the number of Ministers he will appoint won't exceed fifty (50). To him, this number is feasible to work with in achieving his vision and policies for the nation. I would have not more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers, he emphasized in an address at UPSA on Wednesday, February 7. Following this pledge, the Vice President and flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially launched and announced his campaign team. The team includes former General Secretary of the party and former Local Government Minister, Dan Botwe as Chairman and STC Chief Executive Officer, Nana Akomea, together with a former First Vice Chairman of the party, Fred Oware, as Deputies. Other names are Dr. Gideon Boako, Tano North parliamentary candidate for the NPP, who is the Spokesperson and Dennis Miracles Aboagye serves as Communications Director of the team. There are other various names serving in different capacities to advance Dr. Bawumia's vision of winning the December presidential elections. Kwesi Pratt, commenting on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", raised an issue with the size of the campaign team. Mr. Pratt noted that the campaign team members amount to 40 in number, therefore purportedly casting doubts on the NPP flagbearer's promise to use only 50 Ministers. "Those who do the actual campaign in their thousands. Some will just wear T-shirts, others will advise and there are others who would take the materials somewhere; they are a lot, so not everyone's name appears on the list. There wouldn't be any paper to contain the names. Therefore, we sift them and list only the key figures who can do the campaign. What Dr. Bawumia and his team did yesterday, if they had done it differently, it would have been better. It's not every person's name that should be mentioned in the list", he said. He queried Dr. Bawumia saying "you said those you would work with in your government are 50 but your campaign team is 40, why?" 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 By Lee Min-hyung AliExpress is facing yet another round of public backlash for selling illegal goods and products that are potentially harmful to consumers here. This has prompted the Chinese e-commerce platform to reevaluate and strengthen its internal monitoring system, as reported by an industry official on Wednesday. Industry experts express concerns that AliExpress's business practices could undermine the fair competition ecosystem within the nations e-commerce industry. Additionally, they warn that customers may suffer adverse consequences for purchasing potentially life-threatening and unsafe items from their platform. For instance, the Chinese platform faced significant criticism for selling melatonin capsules, despite the fact that the sleep supplement is classified as a prescription-based medicine, and its importation is also prohibited in the country. Coupang, a rival online retailer in Korea, for instance, said it sells sleep supplements that do not contain melatonin even though it uses the word in its branding of some products. Officials from the e-commerce industry attributed AliExpress's weak product monitoring system to the latest controversy. They added that it seems unlikely that Korean authorities will impose heavy sanctions on such large overseas e-commerce firms, citing concerns over potential trade conflicts with China, the worlds second-largest economy. AliExpress already pledged to step up monitoring of its platform during the National Assemblys annual audit last year, but it appears that little progress has since been made, an official at a major e-commerce firm here said. According to the official, authorities in Korea, including the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, should adopt a more stringent stance against such violations of the law. This is necessary to prevent similar overseas platform firms from engaging in similar sales activities in the future. But the government remains reluctant to do so amid fears of potential trade retaliation from such big economies abroad, he said. Under the harsh reality, it will be very tough for Korea to create a level playing field across the e-commerce industry, and local firms will end up losing more ground. Against this backdrop, a spokesperson for AliExpress' operations in Korea announced plans to intensify monitoring of sales involving such products. We are still monitoring problematic products in real-time and take immediate action when finding such items on sale, the official from a public relations agency for AliExpress here said. AliExpress will take steps to more thoroughly monitor the items by improving our internal search monitoring system. AliExpress acknowledges the current situation and is committed to enhancing its services while tailoring them to the Korean market. We respect the Korean market and the industry here, so AliExpress will garner best efforts to resolve such problems down the road, the official said. The flag bearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, says the objective behind his proposed 24-hour economy initiative is to enable businesses to operate three shifts per day. To achieve this goal, he says the government and private sector will collaborate. "The 24-hour economy is designed to create new employment opportunities, particularly for young people, address unemployment, and enhance living standards in Ghana." In a social media post, the NDC flag bearer, said his government will enact new laws to support businesses operating a 24 hour system in seven days (24/7), including labour laws and tax incentives. "To assist companies, there will be favourable tax policies, stimulus packages and financial assistance available for specific industries including agro-processing and manufacturing," Mr Mahama posted. The former President also said, "Buying local products and services will be government's top priority, and measures will be implemented to ensure the smooth operation of the 24-hour economy." "My objective is to create a 24-hour economy in Ghana by enabling businesses to operate in three shifts. This will help Ghana become self-sufficient and focus on export-oriented growth. "To achieve this goal, the government and private sector will collaborate. The 24-hour economy is designed to create new employment opportunities, particularly for young people, address unemployment, and enhance living standards in Ghana. "My government will enact new laws to support businesses operating 24/7, including labour laws and tax incentives. To assist companies, there will be favourable tax policies, stimulus packages and financial assistance available for specific industries including agro-processing and manufacturing. "Buying local products and services will be government's top priority, and measures will be implemented to ensure the smooth operation of the 24-hour economy. "Security, sanitation, cleaning, and environmental protection will be critical components of the 24-hour economy. Financial services at the ports will be operational 24/7, reducing delays and congestion. "The initiative aims to benefit various sectors, create jobs, improve living standards, increase productivity, and provide convenience for citizens." Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Ghanaian fashion designer Sedinam Hemade, CEO of Hemade Worldwide, emerges as a beacon of creativity, innovation, and advocacy. With seven years of operation under her belt, Sedinam's journey from a passionate fashion enthusiast to a respected industry leader is a testament to her unwavering dedication and vision. Sedinam's love affair with fashion began in childhood, nurtured by her mother's gift of a baby doll and a basket filled with colorful threads. This early exposure ignited a spark that would later evolve into a full-fledged passion. After completing a certificate course at Joyce Ababio and gaining invaluable experience at Voc Style, Sedinam embarked on a transformative journey to France, where she pursued a degree in Fashion Design and Technology at the prestigious International Fashion Academy (IFA). During her time in Paris, Sedinam had the privilege of working alongside renowned global designers like Imani Ayissi and Luisa via Roma, immersing herself in the world of luxury fashion. Her experiences at IFA and her collaborations with industry giants enriched her understanding of fabric, construction, and design aesthetics, shaping her into the visionary designer she is today. Upon returning to Ghana, Sedinam founded Hemade Worldwide with a mission to redefine Ghanaian fashion and promote collaboration within the industry. Drawing inspiration from brands like Pistis and Urban Giant, Sedinam believes in the power of unity to propel Ghanaian designers onto the global stage. "Sometimes we need to foster unity in the fashion industry because its still growing in Ghana," Sedinam emphasizes. "Doing collaborations will help designers maximize consumers because, at the end, it benefits all of us." At the heart of Hemade Worldwide lies a commitment to sustainability and empowerment. Sedinam's dedication to minimizing waste is reflected in her approach to design, where she repurposes leftover fabrics to create stunning pieces that embody elegance and environmental consciousness. "I havent made myself a sustainable designer because I dont waste fabrics," Sedinam explains. "These pieces I dont like to go to waste to promote sustainability and help with the environment." As CEO of Hemade Worldwide, Sedinam leads by example, nurturing talent within her team and creating a supportive working environment where creativity flourishes. Her dedication to training and empowering individuals underscores her belief in the transformative power of education and mentorship. For Sedinam, fashion is more than just clothingit's a lifestyle. Her designs are a reflection of her ethos, blending timeless elegance with comfort and individuality. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Sedinam continues to push the boundaries of creativity, inspiring others to join her in shaping the future of Ghanaian fashion. As she continues to advocate for collaboration and sustainability, Sedinam Hemade stands as a true visionary, leading the charge towards a brighter, more inclusive future for the Ghanaian fashion industry. "We have to use a fabric that is adaptable to our kind of weather," Sedinam asserts. "Fashion is about originality, and everyone has a different silhouette. We have to suit their body type and be able to trick the eye." In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, Sedinam Hemade is a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a more vibrant, sustainable, and collaborative future. Source: Peacefmonline 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 Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido on Tuesday announced that he will donate 300m Naira ($197,000; 156,000) to orphanages in his country. "I and my foundation pledge the sum of 300 million Naira to orphanages around Nigeria...as my yearly contribution to the nation..details of disbursement tomorrow," Davido shared in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday. Davido, real name David Adedeji Adeleke, has in recent years endeared himself to his fans for philanthropic efforts. In 2021, he ended up collecting 200m naira from his friends and fans after he shared a series of posts on X, then Twitter, asking people to send him money so he could clear his Rolls Royce from the port. Davido then topped up 50m naira of his own, and donated the total 250m naira to various orphanages in Nigeria. He went on to create the David Adeleke Foundation the following year. Since then, Davido and his foundation have donated money to orphanages in Nigeria annually. Several Nigerians online have commended about the pledge, saying it is timely and could help the recipient orphanages to cope with the aggravating cost-of-living crisis. 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 origins of the plumed serpent Quetzalcoatl's worship trace back to the pre-Columbian civilizations of Central Mexico, particularly among the Aztecs and the Maya. The name "Quetzalcoatl" itself is derived from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, combining "quetzal," referring to the colorful bird renowned for its beautiful plumage, and "coatl," meaning serpent. This amalgamation reflects the duality in Quetzalcoatl's nature as both a feathered creature and a snake. The Maya used the name Kukulkan to refer to the same feathered serpent god. Advertisement According to Aztec tradition, Quetzalcoatl was one of the creator deities responsible for shaping the world and humanity. His association with the morning star and evening star (the planet Venus) further underscored his significance as a celestial and terrestrial force. The motif of the plumed serpent became ubiquitous in Mesoamerican art and icononography, including for both the Aztec and the Maya peoples. Many archaeological sites and sacred sites related to ancient Mesoamerica feature this classic Maya serpent iconography alongside symbols related to the people's rituals and ceremonies. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain In the blink of an eye, the unruly, superheated plasma that drives a fusion reaction can lose its stability and escape the strong magnetic fields confining it within the donut-shaped fusion reactor. These getaways frequently spell the end of the reaction, posing a core challenge to developing fusion as a non-polluting, virtually limitless energy source. But a Princeton-led team composed of engineers, physicists, and data scientists from the University and the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to predictand then avoidthe formation of a specific plasma problem in real time. In experiments at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility in San Diego, the researchers demonstrated their model, trained only on past experimental data, could forecast potential plasma instabilities known as tearing mode instabilities up to 300 milliseconds in advance. While that leaves no more than enough time for a slow blink in humans, it was plenty of time for the AI controller to change certain operating parameters to avoid what would have developed into a tear within the plasma's magnetic field lines, upsetting its equilibrium and opening the door for a reaction-ending escape. "By learning from past experiments, rather than incorporating information from physics-based models, the AI could develop a final control policy that supported a stable, high-powered plasma regime in real time, at a real reactor," said research leader Egemen Kolemen, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, as well as staff research physicist at PPPL. The research opens the door for more dynamic control of a fusion reaction than current approaches, and it provides a foundation for using artificial intelligence to solve a broad range of plasma instabilities, which have long been obstacles to achieving a sustained fusion reaction. The team published their findings in Nature on February 21. "Previous studies have generally focused on either suppressing or mitigating the effects of these tearing instabilities after they occur in the plasma," said first author Jaemin Seo, an assistant professor of physics at Chung-Ang University in South Korea who performed much of the work while a postdoctoral researcher in Kolemen's group. "But our approach allows us to predict and avoid those instabilities before they ever appear." Superheated plasma swirling in a donut-shaped device Fusion takes place when two atomsusually light atoms like hydrogencome together to form one heavier atom, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. The process powers the sun, and, by extension, makes life on Earth possible. However, getting the two atoms to fuse is tricky, as it takes massive amounts of pressure and energy for the two atoms to overcome their mutual repulsion. Fortunately for the sun, its massive gravitational pull and extremely high pressures at its core allow fusion reactions to proceed. To replicate a similar process on the Earth, scientists instead use extremely hot plasma and extremely strong magnets. In donut-shaped devices known as tokamakssometimes referred to as "stars in jars"magnetic fields struggle to contain plasmas that reach above 100 million degrees Celsius, hotter than the center of the sun. While there are many types of plasma instabilities that can terminate the reaction, the Princeton team concentrated on solving tearing mode instabilities, a disturbance in which the magnetic field lines within a plasma actually break and create an opportunity for the plasma's subsequent escape. "Tearing mode instabilities are one of the major causes of plasma disruption, and they will become even more prominent as we try to run fusion reactions at the high powers required to produce enough energy," said Seo. "They are an important challenge for us to solve." Fusing artificial intelligence and plasma physics Since tearing mode instabilities can form and derail a fusion reaction in milliseconds, the researchers turned to artificial intelligence for its ability to quickly process and act in response to new data. But the process to develop an effective AI controller was not as simple as trying out a few things on a tokamak, where time is limited, and the stakes are high. Co-author Azarakhsh Jalalvand, a research scholar in Kolemen's group, compared teaching an algorithm to run a fusion reaction in a tokamak to teaching someone how to fly a plane. "You wouldn't teach someone by handing them a set of keys and telling them to try their best," Jalalvand said. "Instead, you'd have them practice on a very intricate flight simulator until they've learned enough to try out the real thing." Like developing a flight simulator, the Princeton team used data from past experiments at the DIII-D tokamak to construct a deep neural network capable of predicting the likelihood of a future tearing instability based on real-time plasma characteristics. They used that neural network to train a reinforcement learning algorithm. Like a pilot trainee, the reinforcement learning algorithm could try out different strategies for controlling plasma, learning through trial and error which strategies worked and which did not within the safety of a simulated environment. "We don't teach the reinforcement learning model all of the complex physics of a fusion reaction," Jalalvand said. "We tell it what the goal isto maintain a high-powered reactionwhat to avoida tearing mode instabilityand the knobs it can turn to achieve those outcomes. Over time, it learns the optimal pathway for achieving the goal of high power while avoiding the punishment of an instability." While the model went through countless simulated fusion experiments, trying to find ways to maintain high power levels while avoiding instabilities, co-author SangKyeun Kim could observe and refine its actions. "In the background, we can see the intentions of the model," said Kim, a staff research scientist at PPPL and former postdoctoral researcher in Kolemen's group. "Some of the changes that the model wants are too rapid, so we work to smooth and calm the model. As humans, we arbitrate between what the AI wants to do and what the tokamak can accommodate." Once they were confident in the AI controller's abilities, they tested it during an actual fusion experiment at the D-III D tokamak, observing as the controller made real-time changes to certain tokamak parameters to avoid the onset of an instability. These parameters included changing the shape of the plasma and the strength of the beams inputting power into the reaction. "Being able to predict instabilities ahead of time can make it easier to run these reactions than current approaches, which are more passive," said Kim. "We no longer have to wait for the instabilities to occur and then take quick corrective action before the plasma becomes disrupted." Powering into the future While the researchers said the work is a promising proof-of-concept demonstrating how artificial intelligence can effectively control fusion reactions, it is only one of many next steps already ongoing in Kolemen's group to advance the field of fusion research. The first step is to get more evidence of the AI controller in action at the DIII-D tokamak, and then expand the controller to function at other tokamaks. "We have strong evidence that the controller works quite well at DIII-D, but we need more data to show that it can work in a number of different situations," said first author Seo. "We want to work toward something more universal." A second line of research involves expanding the algorithm to handle many different control problems at the same time. While the current model uses a limited number of diagnostics to avoid one specific type of instability, the researchers could provide data on other types of instabilities and give access to more knobs for the AI controller to tune. "You could imagine one large reward function that turns many different knobs to simultaneously control for several types of instabilities," said co-author Ricardo Shousha, a postdoc at PPPL and former graduate student in Kolemen's group who provided support for the experiments at DIII-D. And on the route to developing better AI controllers for fusion reactions, researchers might also gain more understanding of the underlying physics. By studying the AI controller's decisions as it attempts to contain the plasma, which can be radically different than what traditional approaches might prescribe, artificial intelligence may be not only a tool to control fusion reactions but also a teaching resource. "Eventually, it may be more than just a one-way interaction of scientists developing and deploying these AI models," said Kolemen. "By studying them in more detail, they may have certain things that they can teach us too." More information: Egemen Kolemen, Avoiding tearing instability in fusion plasma using deep reinforcement learning, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07024-9. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07024-9 Journal information: Nature 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: Defining 32 Merian elements. Credit: Nature Ecology & Evolution (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02329-4 The most extensive analysis of its kind reveals how butterfly and moth chromosomes have remained largely unchanged since their last common ancestor over 250 million years ago. This stability exists despite the incredible diversity seen today in wing patterns, sizes, and caterpillar forms across over 160,000 species globally. Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and their collaborators at the University of Edinburgh analyzed and compared over 200 high-quality chromosome-level genomes across butterflies and moths to better understand their evolutionary history. They further uncovered rare groups of species that broke these genetic norms and underwent genetic rearrangements, including chromosome fusionswhere two chromosomes mergeand fissionswhere a chromosome splits. The findings, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, shed light on the tight constraints governing genome evolution in these ecologically vital insects. They also offer insights into factors that have enabled select species to defy these rules of evolution. These insights can inform and enhance conservation efforts by guiding targeted strategies, monitoring ecosystem health, adapting to climate change, and incorporating genetic information into broader conservation initiatives. The work is part of the Darwin Tree of Life Project, aiming to sequence all 70,000 species in Britain and Ireland, and contributes to the larger Earth BioGenome Project to sequence all 1.6 million named species on Earth. The study raises broader questions about how chromosomal changes shape biodiversity over time. The researchers will continue focused efforts to sequence all 11,000 European butterfly and moth species as part of the newly launched Project Psyche. Butterflies and mothscollectively called Lepidopterarepresent 10% of all described animal species and are hugely important pollinators and herbivores in many ecosystems. In this new study, researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and their collaborators set out to understand the processes that drive the evolution of chromosomes of this highly diverse group. They identified 32 ancestral chromosome building blocks, named "Merian elements" after the pioneering 17th century entomologist Maria Sibylla Merian, that have stayed intact across most butterfly and moth species since their last common ancestor over 250 million years ago. With the exception of a single ancient fusion event between two chromosomes that led to the 31 chromosomes seen in most species today, chromosomes of most current species directly correspond to these ancestral Merian elements. The team found not only were chromosomes incredibly stable, but the order of genes within them was too. The team found some species with minor changes, mainly involving fusions of small autosomes and the sex chromosome. This highlights the role of chromosome length as a driver of evolutionary change. However, researchers uncovered a rare subset of species such as the blue butterfliesLysandraand the group containing cabbage white butterfliesPieristhat have defied these genome structure constraints. These groups underwent extensive chromosome reshuffling, including breakage of chromosomes, and large scale reshuffling through fission and fusion. The work increases understanding of factors that lead to genetic diversity within these insects. This can guide efforts to protect and preserve specific species facing unique challenges and environmental changes tied to climate change. Charlotte Wright, first author of the study at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said, "The chromosomes of most butterflies and moths living today can be traced directly back to the 32 ancestral Merian elements that were present 250 million years ago. It is striking that despite species diversifying extensively, their chromosomes have remained remarkably intact." "This challenges the idea that stable chromosomes may limit species diversification. Indeed, this feature might be a base for building diversity. We hope to find clues in rare groups that have evaded these rules." Professor Mark Blaxter, senior author of the study and Head of the Tree of Life program at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said, "Studies like this, which allow us to delve into these evolutionary processes, are only possible with initiatives like the Darwin Tree of Life project generating high-quality, publicly available genome assemblies. We are amplifying these efforts in Project Psyche, aiming to sequence all 11,000 butterfly and moth species in Europe with collaborators across the continent." "As vital pollinators, herbivores, and food sources of various ecosystems, as well as powerful indicators of ecosystem health, a deeper understanding of butterfly and moth biology through Project Psyche will inform future studies on adaptation and speciation for biodiversity conservation." More information: Charlotte J. Wright et al, Comparative genomics reveals the dynamics of chromosome evolution in Lepidoptera, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02329-4 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: Geographical distribution of rabbit population and lagovirus-positive samples from January 2015 to December 2022 in Australia. Rabbit population distribution was determined from a previous study and is depicted as a dark gray area in the map [61]. Colors refer to the respective variants detected. Other refers to samples that tested negative for RHDV but positive for myxomavirus, Pasteurella multocida, or Eimeria spp. NSWNew South Wales, VICVictoria, QLDQueensland, NTNorthern Territory, WAWestern Australia, SASouth Australia, ACTAustralian Capital Territory, TASTasmania. Credit: Viruses (2023). DOI: 10.3390/v15122348 Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, is calling on rural and regional Australians to join in the longest-running citizen science survey of rabbit diseases in the world, to help keep the invasive pest in check. Feral rabbits are one of the most destructive invasive pest species in Australia. They compete with native animals, cause plant biodiversity loss, reduce crop yields and cost the agricultural industry around $239 million per year. Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), also known as rabbit calicivirus or lagovirus, is used as a biocontrol agent to manage rabbit populations at the landscape scale in Australia. It only affects rabbits and hares, and vaccination is available for domestic (pet) rabbits. New research shows the success of the nine-year disease monitoring program, which relies on members of the public taking tissue samples from dead rabbits found in their area using free sample kits provided by CSIRO. The paper is published in the journal Viruses. Samples can be taken from deceased wild or domestic rabbits. CSIRO scientist Dr. Maria Jenckel said the samples provided since 2015 have helped paint a better picture of the viruses circulating in wild rabbit populations. "We encourage community members from across Australia, particularly in rural and regional areas, to contribute samples for testing so we can get the widest possible coverage across Australia," Dr. Jenckel said. "Citizen science has expanded rabbit virus tracking from fewer than 30 samples tested annually to an average of 345 samples tested annually from 2015. The program allows researchers to track the prevalence of rabbit virus RHDV, with samples arriving every week." CSIRO virologist Dr. Nias Peng said the huge increase in citizen collected samples has allowed scientists to work on a much wider geographic spread as researchers don't need to collect the specimens directly. "A citizen science project such as this contributes directly to research on rabbit biocontrol, which has long term benefits for Australia's biosecurity, native species conservation and ecosystem health," Dr. Peng said. "It is therefore critical to sustain such programs for the long term to monitor for emergence of new RHDV incursions and/or recombinant variants which may affect wild and domestic rabbit populations." More information: Nias Y. G. Peng et al, Utilizing Molecular Epidemiology and Citizen Science for the Surveillance of Lagoviruses in Australia, Viruses (2023). DOI: 10.3390/v15122348 To request a free test kit, email the research team at rabbitcalicivirus@csiro.au with your postal address. Provided by CSIRO 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: In Beijing, where temperatures hovered around freezing on Wednesday, residents awoke to find the capital blanketed in snow. Severe weather warnings were in place across swathes of China on Wednesday as temperatures plummeted across the south and Beijing shivered in snowy conditions. Authorities renewed an orange alertthe highest in the country's three-tier systemwarning that average temperatures could fall by six to 12 degrees Celsius by Friday in the south, where they are currently around zero degrees C (32 degrees Fahrenheit). In some areas, temperatures could plunge by more than 20 degrees C, the National Meteorological Center (NMC) said on social media. State news agency Xinhua said the NMC had "called on local governments to take precautions against the cold weather, advised the public to keep warm, and called for necessary measures to protect crops and aquatic products". In Beijing, where temperatures hovered around freezing on Wednesday, residents awoke to find the capital blanketed in white following overnight snowfall. Traffic slowed to a crawl on the city's highways, while snow-dusted pavements proved treacherous for commuters and cyclists. Municipal authorities said up to 4.1 centimeters (1.6 inches) of snow had fallen in some suburban areas and issued a warning over icy roads. Severe weather warnings were in place across swathes of China on Wednesday as temperatures plummeted across the south and Beijing shivered in snowy conditions. "It is recommended that residents... stagger their travel, use public buses and subways, drive their own cars slowly and pay attention to safety," the city government said in an online statement Tuesday evening. Braving the cold temperatures in the capital's historic Forbidden City, visitorssome in traditional costumesmarveled at the picturesque snowfall. "I am very happy to be here. This snow scene and the dragon lanterns give me a sense of prosperity," Long Yan, a 55-year-old tourist from southwestern Sichuan province, told AFP. "Auspicious snow signifies a bountiful year. This snow is a beautiful omen," she said. 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: CC0 Public Domain In March and August 2018, up to a year before he attacked two Christchurch mosques, Brenton Tarrant posted publicly online that he planned to do so. Until now, these statements have not been identified. In fact, for four years before his attack, Tarrant had been posting anonymously but publicly on the online message board 4chan about the need to attack people of color in locations of "significance", including places of worship. In its final report in 2020, the royal commission of inquiry into the terror attacks wrote: "The individual claimed that he was not a frequent commenter on extreme right-wing sites and that YouTube was, for him, a far more significant source of information and inspiration. Although he did frequent extreme right-wing discussion boards such as those on 4chan and 8chan, the evidence we have seen is indicative of more substantial use of YouTube and is therefore consistent with what he told us." Given the importance of online environments in radicalizing lone-actor terrorists, we questioned this and set out to investigate whether right-wing websites were important in Tarrant's radicalization. What we found overturns a great deal of what we thought we knew about him. It also raises serious questions, not only about why this posting was not detected before the attack but also why it has not been discovered in the five years since the March 15 attacks. Beyond the manifesto Having the opportunity to see Tarrant interact candidly with his online community, we see that much of what he stated in his manifesto was propaganda. When he wrote in his manifesto that he was driven to violence by the lack of a political solutiona realization that came to him in 2017we now know he had been calling for attacks against civilians at least as early as 2015. Where he claimed he was not driven by antisemitism, we found hatred and conspiratorial distrust of Jews were central to his entire worldview. Although he claimed in his manifesto that he carried out his attack to preserve diversity and respect for all cultures, the violent racism and Islamophobia in his posting sets him apart, even in the darkest corners of 4chan. We will be publishing more about Tarrant's online history, including what radicalized him and what lessons can be learned. Here we introduce some of our initial findings. Among other revelations, we show that there were numerous opportunities for the public and New Zealand and Australian security services to observe him making very threatening statements online. We've chosen to repeat only a small number of Tarrant's statements, given their highly offensive nature. However, we still advise caution before reading further. How we found the posts Because 4chan posts are anonymous, we used a combination of indicators to identify Tarrant. 4chan's "politically incorrect" boardreferred to as /pol/provides the time, date and location of each post, allowing us to match this against Tarrant's travel to numerous countries over five years. Tarrant also frequently provided personal information in his posts, and he used the same distinctive language. In some cases, he repeated points we know he made elsewhere. He openly and proudly stated his Australian identity, even as he called for violence. He also often made specific grammatical errors which make his posting stand out. He uses this style in online writing samples as early as 2011, in his 2019 manifesto, and in a great deal of online posting in between. In combination, these indicators identify Tarrant. Our team of four researchers reviewed thousands of anonymous posts and hundreds of threads on /pol/. We used the platform's search function for particular words, phrases and images. As a team we carefully evaluated all posts which included several of the above indicators. We maintained a very high evidence threshold for including posts in our analysis. We excluded some important statements that were almost certainly written by him, but for which only one or two of the above indicators were present. What we found By 2015, Tarrant was calling for mass violence against people of color. Inspired by Dylann Roof's massacre of nine Black worshippers in a church in Charleston, South Carolina, Tarrant excitedly claimed "violence is the last resort of a cornered animal", and "it was always going to come to this". It was here Tarrant made clear that white nationalist extremists should target innocent victims in locations of "significance", such as places of worship. When other posters claimed Roof should have targeted a "ghetto", Tarrant became frustrated. He explained that attacking unarmed people in a church is a "very simple tactic" necessary to provoke people of color into retaliating. He used a highly racist phrase common on the /pol/ board to refer to this strategy. For at least four years, then, Tarrant contemplated and planned on killing people in a location of emotional importance such as a school or place of worship. In fact, he glorified a wide range of violence, including school and public shootings, the perpetrators of which were driven by psychological or other motives rather than white nationalist ideology. He advocated for and praised the sadistic and brutal killing of innocent civilians. The key for Tarrant was that this violence was perpetrated by white men. For him, any white violence might trigger the race war and segregation he desired. As he traveled the world between 2014 and 2018, Tarrant became increasingly focused on Muslims. His hatred persisted after arriving in New Zealand. Sometimes it spiraled into unhinged tirades. In one thread, he claimed he would form and fund an armed band of 4chan users to conduct ethnic cleansing in the Balkans. Some of his posting is unusually violent even within the extremism of /pol/. With hindsight at least, it suggests potential opportunities for detection, most obviously by Australian authorities. For example, in that same thread, he identified himself as Australian four times, and brazenly wrote there was nothing the Australian government could do to stop him. At the moment of this violent fantasy, he emailed a gun club in Dunedin stating his plans to move to New Zealand. In the same week, he made donations to international far-right leaders. Operational Security? The royal commission into the Christchurch terror attacks concluded Tarrant made only "limited lapses" in operational security during his time in New Zealand between late 2017 and March 2019. This is not the case. He posted regularly on /pol/, which is freely and publicly accessible. His posting was visible to numerous others whose identities he could not possibly know. Two threads in March and August of 2018 in particular show his hatred of and plans to attack the Muslim community. As such, they presented opportunities for his detection. In these threads, Tarrant and other users posted angrily about the spread of immigrants in New Zealand, and particularly the presence of mosques in small towns. Very soon, a group of anonymous posters, including Tarrant, discussed violence against the buildings (and the communities that gather in them). When another user posted an image of a box of matches in reference to the mosques, Tarrant wrote "Soon". Revealing he was in Dunedin, Tarrant expressed his anger at the presence of mosques in that city, and in Christchurch and Ashburton to the north, using highly abusive language. When other users called on him to act, he wrote: "I have a plan to stop it. Just hold on." Far from maintaining tight operational security as he planned his attack, Tarrant openly (albeit anonymously) discussed violence against mosques in the South Island while in New Zealand. Preventing it happening again The 4chan community was crucial in Tarrant's radicalisation (and the examples given here are just a portion of what we have found). Given what we know about the importance of online environments in the radicalisation of other white nationalist terrorists, it is disturbing this aspect of Tarrant's path to March 15 has not been investigated more thoroughly. After all, his final words before the attack were released on the imageboard 8chan, but also intended for 4chan: "It's been a long ride [] you are all top blokes and the best bunch of cobbers a man could ask for". It is hard to imagine a clearer signpost that the real nature of his radicalisation could be found on those forums. Five years later, it seems we are only beginning to understand why he committed the atrocity, what might have been done to stop it, and how government agencies can work together with specialist extremism researchers to prevent it happening again. More information about our study will be released at heiaglobal.com. Our research was approved by the University of Auckland Human Participant Ethics Committee. A paper based on this study has been submitted for peer review and publication. 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: In response to climate change, bowhead whales are changing their migratory patterns. That could put them at higher risk of ship strikes as sea-ice extent continues to decline and shipping traffic increases, according to new research in Geophysical Research Letters. Credit: NOAA The population of bowhead whales that migrates between the Bering and Beaufort Seas each year is a conservation success story, with today's population nearingif not exceedingpre-commercial whaling numbers. But climate change is shifting the whales' feeding grounds and migration patterns, potentially pushing them to spend more time in the paths of oncoming ships, according to a new study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. Researchers used more than a decade of acoustic data to monitor bowhead whales' movements between their usual overwintering grounds in the Bering Sea and summer feeding grounds in the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. The whales departed the summer feeding grounds about six weeks later in 2022 than in 2008, based on the acoustic data. Some are also spending winter farther north in the Chukchi Sea, where commercial traffic in particular has been increasing. That means they could be lingering longer in shipping lanes, which grow busier as sea ice shrinks. "A shift like this may not necessarily be a bad thing for the whales, but any time we see more overlap with whales and shipping traffic, we should be concerned," said Angela Szesciorka, a marine scientist at Oregon State University's Marine Mammal Institute who led the study. "There will be winners and losers, but only time will tell." Whales on the move Historically, the population of bowhead whales that Szesciorka studies has spent their winters in the Bering Sea. In April, they'd head north through the Chukchi Sea and into the Beaufort Sea off the Canadian and Alaska coasts, head west to the Russian Chukotka Peninsula, and finally go back south around mid-November. During the 2008-2009 International Polar Year, researchers put an underwater microphone called a hydrophone at the Chukchi Plateau for the first time and were surprised to hear bowhead whales in late spring and summer, much farther north than their previously understood migratory paths. Traditional knowledge held in Indigenous Arctic communities has suggested the whales' migration patterns are changing in recent years, and data from a handful of satellite-tagged whales has reflected that. As temperatures warm the waters and sea-ice extent drops, the whole Arctic ecological web is forced to change, from tiny plankton and krill up to whales. Scientists wondered if climate change was behind the shift in bowhead whale migration patterns, but they needed more information on the whales' migration patterns over time to figure it out. Szesciorka and her co-authors had previously monitored bowhead whale movements through the Bering Strait using data from hydrophones. They used hydrophones to monitor bowhead whales in the western Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Plateau from 2008 to 2022. "Bowhead whales are highly vocal," Szesciorka said. "Males sing pretty much twenty-four-seven from fall through spring, so you know when they're there." The recordings revealed that the whales shifted their winter departure time from the western Beaufort Sea 45 days later in 2022 than they had in 2008. They also spent more time in the summer in the Chukchi Sea, and some appeared to entirely forgo migrating back to the Bering Sea as they normally would. Bowhead whales migrate from their usual overwintering spot in the Bering Sea, north through the Bering Strait, to summer feeding grounds in the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. Recently, theyve begun leaving the summer feeding grounds weeks later, with some whales not bothering to return to the Bering Sea winter spot, the GRL study finds. Credit: Geophysical Research Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1029/2023GL106416 Some of these changes are most likely due to increased food availability in the Chukchi Sea as a result of warmer waters and declining sea ice, the study suggests. But scientists will need to do more research to know for sure. "The changes we are seeing in migration patterns lead to many questions," Szesciorka said. "How many whales are going to the Chukchi Sea in the summer? What are they feeding on? Do the same individuals return each year? We're essentially learning on the fly how whales are responding to changing climate." There's also concern that Indigenous harvests of bowhead whales could be impacted. Bowhead whales could end up abandoning parts of their historic ranges, leaving some tribes with no access to this traditional food and cultural resource. Having tribal involvement in whale management is critical, Szesciorka said. Seasonal shifts and ship strikes Spending more time farther north, where commercial shipping traffic is increasing as sea-ice extent drops, could put the whales at increased risk of hazardous encounters with vessels. "With this general northward shift paired with an increase in vessels and shipping, the threat of ship strikes will probably increase," Szesciorka said. Shipping in the western Chukchi Sea has increased about 13% since 2009; however, there hasn't yet been an increase in bowhead ship-strikes "that we know of," she emphasized. Ship strikes can only be confirmed during harvests; other whales may die and wash ashore undetected. But Szesciorka sees opportunity. "Right now, the Arctic is kind of the wild west," she said. "As sea ice continues to decline, shipping, especially large commercial vessels that go much faster than smaller fishing boats, is only going to increase. It's better to start thinking about this sooner rather than later so we can prevent problems rather than try to respond to them." One solution would be to establish speed limits in bowhead whale seasonal habitat, reducing the risk of ship strikes and noise pollution, she said. The shift in bowhead whales' seasonal movements is happening quickly, apace with the other rapid changes in the Arctic. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. The whales might be nimble enough to keep up with the changes, Szesciorka said. "We saw these changes in migration patterns in just nine years," she said. "For a species that can live to 200, that's pretty stark. That shows they can adapt to their changing environments for now. But will there be a point where they can't adapt anymore? We have to wait and see." More information: Angela R. Szesciorka et al, BasinWide Shift in Bowhead Whale Migration in the Pacific Arctic, Geophysical Research Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1029/2023GL106416 By Park Jae-hyuk POSCO Group announced its decision on Wednesday to replace the CEOs of major affiliates as the nations fifth-largest business group prepares to appoint a new chairman following the upcoming regular general meeting of its holding firms shareholders on March 21. Lee Si-woo, who previously served as a co-CEO of the groups steelmaking unit, POSCO, alongside Vice Chairman Kim Hag-dong, will now assume sole leadership of the steelmaker. This follows the announcement that Kim will step down from his position. Lee brings extensive experience to the role, having worked at POSCO's steel mills both domestically and overseas since joining the company in 1985. Former POSCO Holdings President Chon Jung-son, who was included on the shortlist of chairman candidates, was nominated as the CEO of POSCO E&C, the groups construction arm. He has worked for POSCO since 1987. Lee Kye-in, currently the chief officer of POSCO International's global business unit, will assume leadership of the group's trading and energy affiliate. Additionally, he has been promoted to the position of president from vice president. Lee brings extensive experience to this role, having joined Daewoo in 1989 and subsequently transitioning to POSCO Group after its acquisition of the now-defunct conglomerate's trading unit in 2010. POSCO Holdings Vice President Yoo Byung-ok, who joined the steelmaker in 1989, was nominated as the CEO of POSCO Future M, the groups chemical subsidiary specializing in battery materials. Incumbent POSCO Future M CEO Kim Jun-hyung will be transferred to the groups holding firm. The official appointment of the CEO nominees will take place after general meetings of each companys shareholders. POSCO Group announced the planned executive reshuffle two weeks after selecting former POSCO President Chang In-hwa as the next chairman to lead the steelmaker and the groups other affiliates over the next three years. Last December, POSCO Group promoted only executives who do not lead its affiliates, as the process to select the next chairman was still ongoing. At that time, the company was anticipated to nominate the new heads of its affiliates in February. Following the selection of the 68-year-old as the next chairman, there were expectations that the company might not pursue generational shifts in the leadership of its affiliates. Chang, who joined the POSCO-funded Research Institute of Industrial Science & Technology in 1988, is two years older than the outgoing Chairman Choi Jeong-woo. However, the incumbent heads of POSCO, POSCO E&C and POSCO International, all of whom are younger than the incoming chairman, will step down after the planned executive reshuffle. Some of them will serve as advisers for POSCO Group for a while, as other former senior executives did. 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 fractional quantum Hall effect has generally been seen under very high magnetic fields, but MIT physicists have now observed it in simple graphene. In a five-layer graphene/ hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) moire superlattice, electrons (blue ball) interact with each other strongly and behave as if they are broken into fractional charges. Credit: Sampson Wilcox, RLE The electron is the basic unit of electricity, as it carries a single negative charge. This is what we're taught in high school physics, and it is overwhelmingly the case in most materials in nature. But in very special states of matter, electrons can splinter into fractions of their whole. This phenomenon, known as "fractional charge," is exceedingly rare, and if it can be corralled and controlled, the exotic electronic state could help to build resilient, fault-tolerant quantum computers. To date, this effect, known to physicists as the "fractional quantum Hall effect," has been observed a handful of times, and mostly under very high, carefully maintained magnetic fields. Only recently have scientists seen the effect in a material that did not require such powerful magnetic manipulation. Now, MIT physicists have observed the elusive fractional charge effect, this time in a simpler material: five layers of graphenean atom-thin layer of carbon that stems from graphite and common pencil lead. They report their results in Nature. They found that when five sheets of graphene are stacked like steps on a staircase, the resulting structure inherently provides just the right conditions for electrons to pass through as fractions of their total charge, with no need for any external magnetic field. The results are the first evidence of the "fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect" (the term "anomalous" refers to the absence of a magnetic field) in crystalline graphene, a material that physicists did not expect to exhibit this effect. "This five-layer graphene is a material system where many good surprises happen," says study author Long Ju, assistant professor of physics at MIT. "Fractional charge is just so exotic, and now we can realize this effect with a much simpler system and without a magnetic field. That in itself is important for fundamental physics. And it could enable the possibility for a type of quantum computing that is more robust against perturbation." Ju's MIT co-authors are lead author Zhengguang Lu, Tonghang Han, Yuxuan Yao, Aidan Reddy, Jixiang Yang, Junseok Seo, and Liang Fu, along with Kenji Watanabe and Takashi Taniguchi at the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan. A bizarre state The fractional quantum Hall effect is an example of the weird phenomena that can arise when particles shift from behaving as individual units to acting together as a whole. This collective "correlated" behavior emerges in special states, for instance when electrons are slowed from their normally frenetic pace to a crawl that enables the particles to sense each other and interact. These interactions can produce rare electronic states, such as the seemingly unorthodox splitting of an electron's charge. In 1982, scientists discovered the fractional quantum Hall effect in heterostructures of gallium arsenide, where a gas of electrons confined in a two-dimensional plane is placed under high magnetic fields. The discovery later won the group a Nobel Prize in Physics. "[The discovery] was a very big deal, because these unit charges interacting in a way to give something like fractional charge was very, very bizarre," Ju says. "At the time, there were no theory predictions, and the experiments surprised everyone." Those researchers achieved their groundbreaking results using magnetic fields to slow down the material's electrons enough for them to interact. The fields they worked with were about 10 times stronger than what typically powers an MRI machine. In August 2023, scientists at the University of Washington reported the first evidence of fractional charge without a magnetic field. They observed this "anomalous" version of the effect, in a twisted semiconductor called molybdenum ditelluride. The group prepared the material in a specific configuration, which theorists predicted would give the material an inherent magnetic field, enough to encourage electrons to fractionalize without any external magnetic control. The "no magnets" result opened a promising route to topological quantum computinga more secure form of quantum computing, in which the added ingredient of topology (a property that remains unchanged in the face of weak deformation or disturbance) gives a qubit added protection when carrying out a computation. This computation scheme is based on a combination of fractional quantum Hall effect and a superconductor. It used to be almost impossible to realize: One needs a strong magnetic field to get fractional charge, while the same magnetic field will usually kill the superconductor. In this case the fractional charges would serve as a qubit (the basic unit of a quantum computer). A photo of the team. From left to right: Long Ju, Postdoc Zhengguang Lu, visiting undergraduate Yuxuan Yao, graduate student Tonghang Hang. Credit: Jixiang Yang Making steps That same month, Ju and his team happened to also observe signs of anomalous fractional charge in graphenea material for which there had been no predictions for exhibiting such an effect. Ju's group has been exploring electronic behavior in graphene, which by itself has exhibited exceptional properties. Most recently, Ju's group has looked into pentalayer graphenea structure of five graphene sheets, each stacked slightly off from the other, like steps on a staircase. Such pentalayer graphene structure is embedded in graphite and can be obtained by exfoliation using Scotch tape. When placed in a refrigerator at ultracold temperatures, the structure's electrons slow to a crawl and interact in ways they normally wouldn't when whizzing around at higher temperatures. In their new work, the researchers did some calculations and found that electrons might interact with each other even more strongly if the pentalayer structure were aligned with hexagonal boron nitride (hBN)a material that has a similar atomic structure to that of graphene, but with slightly different dimensions. In combination, the two materials should produce a moire superlatticean intricate, scaffold-like atomic structure that could slow electrons down in ways that mimic a magnetic field. "We did these calculations, then thought, let's go for it," says Ju, who happened to install a new dilution refrigerator in his MIT lab last summer, which the team planned to use to cool materials down to ultra-low temperatures, to study exotic electronic behavior. The researchers fabricated two samples of the hybrid graphene structure by first exfoliating graphene layers from a block of graphite, then using optical tools to identify five-layered flakes in the steplike configuration. They then stamped the graphene flake onto an hBN flake and placed a second hBN flake over the graphene structure. Finally, they attached electrodes to the structure and placed it in the refrigerator, set to near absolute zero. As they applied a current to the material and measured the voltage output, they started to see signatures of fractional charge, where the voltage equals the current multiplied by a fractional number and some fundamental physics constants. "The day we saw it, we didn't recognize it at first," says first author Lu. "Then we started to shout as we realized, this was really big. It was a completely surprising moment." "This was probably the first serious samples we put in the new fridge," adds co-first author Han. "Once we calmed down, we looked in detail to make sure that what we were seeing was real." With further analysis, the team confirmed that the graphene structure indeed exhibited the fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect. It is the first time the effect has been seen in graphene. "Graphene can also be a superconductor," Ju says. "So, you could have two totally different effects in the same material, right next to each other. If you use graphene to talk to graphene, it avoids a lot of unwanted effects when bridging graphene with other materials." For now, the group is continuing to explore multilayer graphene for other rare electronic states. "We are diving in to explore many fundamental physics ideas and applications," he says. "We know there will be more to come." More information: Long Ju, Fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect in multilayer graphene, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-07010-7. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-07010-7 Journal information: Nature This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching. 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, XRD patterns of bulk ceramics prepared under different SPS conditions. In some patterns, details of the circled regions are shown with intensity magnified by a factor of 3. Inset shows the interlayer spacing of prepared ceramics as a function of synthesis condition. b, Microstructure of the ceramic sintered at 1,600 C for 5 min, showing randomly oriented nanoplates. Inset shows the corresponding SAED pattern, with hBN diffraction signals labeled. Extra diffraction halos and spots are present that do not belong to hBN. c, Differential phase contrast image of an edge-on nanoplate showing parallel nanoslices with different colors, indicating a laminated structure of BN nanoplates with parallel-stacked multiple BN nanoslices. d, HAADF-STEM image showing alternating regions of striped (I, III and V) and atomic (II and IV) resolution, evidencing differently twisted BN nanoslices in a laminated nanoplate. e, TEM image showing a moire superlattice. The inset shows a fast Fourier transform pattern from the box region, where the rotational angle between two sets of diffraction spots (marked in red and blue, respectively) is 27.8. Scale bars, 400 nm (b), 50 nm (c), 4 nm (d,e), 5 nm1 (b,e, inset). Credit: Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07036-5 In just the first few months of 2024, the journal Nature has published two scientific papers co-authored by Kun Luo, an Iowa State University postdoctoral research associate in materials science and engineering. "My research aims to unravel the fundamental mechanisms governing the behavior of diverse materials," Ken Luo wrote in a brief biography, "paving the way for developing innovative and high-performance materials across various industries." Luo has a background in experimental science, studying superhard materials using techniques in high-pressure physics. He also has expertise in theoretical simulations using machine learning tools to discover the microstructures within materials. "Throughout my career, I recognized the importance of theoretical simulation in explaining the atomic mechanisms behind the macroscopic behaviors of materials," he said. At Iowa State, he's working "to continue exploring the mechanisms behind material behaviors." For these two Nature studies (and another Nature paper published in July 2022, for which he was the first author, "Coherent interfaces govern direct transformation from graphite to diamond"), Luo used the same tools and techniques to contribute findings. He started with real atomic arrangements using the best electron microscope data available, which provided two-dimensional images. Luo used those images to construct three-dimensional atomic models with computer software manually. "Currently, experiments cannot observe the evolution of these microstructures in situ during phase transitions, movements, or deformation processes," Luo said. "Therefore, effective computational simulations can provide us with a solid theoretical basis to uncover the mechanisms behind these phenomena, ultimately leading to convincing conclusions." Luo said the study described in the 2022 Nature paper about the direct transformation from graphite to diamond resulted in the discovery of a new material called Gradia, a material that has been patented in the United States. Gradia has mechanical and electrical propertiessuch as super-hardness and conductivitythat Luo said could be applied to new technologies. He said the latest Nature paper about ceramic materials that can be shaped and molded like metals could have applications as heat-resistant or insulating structural materials. Luo's atomic structure models "are indeed tools of basic science for uncovering novel materials," he said, "and at the same time, they open the gates to more practical applications." More information: Yongjun Tian, Twisted-layer boron nitride ceramic with high deformability and strength, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07036-5. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07036-5 Ke Tong et al, Structural transition and migration of incoherent twin boundary in diamond, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06908-6 www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06908-6 Journal information: Nature 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: Keira Burton from Pexels Rumormongers, blabbermouths, busybodiesno matter what you call them, gossipers get a bad rap. But new theoretical research conducted by University of Maryland and Stanford University researchers argues that gossipers aren't all that bad. In fact, they might even be good for social circles. Gossipingdefined as the exchange of personal information about absent third partiescan provide a "social benefit," according to the researchers. Their study revealed that gossip is good at disseminating information about people's reputations, which can help recipients of these tips connect with cooperative people while avoiding selfish ones. "When people are interested in knowing if someone is a good person to interact with, if they can get information from gossipingassuming the information is honestthat can be a very useful thing to have," said study co-author Dana Nau, a retired professor in UMD's Department of Computer Science and Institute for Systems Research. In their study published February 20, 2024, in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers used a computer simulation to help solve a long-standing mystery in social psychology: How did gossiping evolve into such a popular pastime that transcends gender, age, culture and socioeconomic background? "One previous study shows that on average, a person spends an hour per day talking about others, so this takes a lot of time out of our daily life," said the study's first author Xinyue Pan, Ph. D., who published part of this research in her master's thesis. "That's why it's important to study it." Previous theories suggested that gossip can bond large groups of people and foster cooperation, but it was unclear what individual gossipers would gain from these interactions. "This has been a real puzzle," said study co-author Michele Gelfand, a professor at Stanford Business School and a professor emeritus in UMD's Department of Psychology. "It's unclear why gossiping, which requires considerable time and energy, evolved as an adaptive strategy at all." Why gossip recipients were so willing to lend a sympathetic ear to gossipers or behave differently in their presence also remained unexplained. To better understand the complex webs of gossip, the research team used an evolutionary game theory model that mimics human decision-making. By combining tenets of evolutionary biology and game theory, the researchers could watch how their agents, or virtual study subjects, interacted with each other and altered their strategies to receive rewards. In this case, the researchers wanted to find out whether agents would use gossip to protect themselves or to exploit others. Agents could cooperate with gossipers or defect; they could become gossipers themselves; and they could change their strategies after observing the consequences or rewards of other agents' decisions. By the end of the simulation, 90% of the agents had become gossipers. The researchers argued that people are more likely to cooperate in the presence of a known gossiper because they want to protect their own reputation and avoid falling victim to the rumor mill. For gossipers, receiving another person's cooperation can be a reward in itself. This figure from the researchers' paper shows the evolutionary cycle of gossip. Credit: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2214160121 "If other people are going to be on their best behavior because they know that you gossip, then they're more likely to cooperate with you on things," Nau explained. "The fact that you gossip ends up providing a benefit to you as a gossiper. That then inspires others to gossip because they can see that it provides a reward." The researchers argue that gossip proliferates because sharing information about people's reputations can have a "selfishness deterrence" effect on gossip recipients. In other words, gossip recipients condition their behavior on others' reputations, and because they don't want to be the subject of future gossip, this deters them from acting selfishly. Thanks to their ability to influence the behavior of others and encourage cooperation, gossipers have an "evolutionary advantage" that perpetuates the cycle of gossip and provides a useful service to listeners. Though gossip has a negative connotation, Pan stressed that the information gossipers share can be complimentary. Regardless of its content, gossip has a useful function. "Positive and negative gossip are both important because gossip plays an important role in sharing information about people's reputations," said Pan, who is now an assistant professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen. "Once people have this information, cooperative people can find other good people to cooperate with, and this is actually beneficial for the group. So gossiping is not always a bad thing. It can be a positive thing." Their simulation also considered different factors that help or hinder the spread of gossip, ultimately confirming what past research has shown: Small-town gossipers aren't just a movie trope. "The model highlights contexts in which we can expect more gossipers to evolve, particularly when social networks have high connectivity and mobility is low, consistent with research on rural areas," Gelfand said. "It gives clues to contexts where gossiping may be more or less likely to flourish." Nau explained that their research does not encompass the full scope of human complexity nor can it replace behavioral studies. However, computer simulations can yield new theories that inspire follow-up research involving human subjects. "People are very complicated and we can't come up with a simulation that does everything that people do, nor would we want to," Nau said. "Since it's an oversimplification, you can't say conclusively that this is how people behave, but you can develop insights. Those can then lead to scientific hypotheses that you can try to investigate through studies that involve human participants." The researchers hope to pursue a follow-up study to test one of their simulation's predictions on human participants: the idea that gossip is effective when people don't have other methods of gathering information about people's reputations. "That, for me, is one of the really exciting parts of this," Nau said. "If we can come up with hypotheses and verify the predictions of those models on human studies, then that's what makes this kind of thing useful." There is one thing the researchers can already say with confidence: Based on the overwhelming number of gossipers in their simulation and in real life, gossiping is unlikely to go away anytime soon. More information: Xinyue Pan et al, Explaining the evolution of gossip, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2214160121 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 Researchers at Colorado State University are exploring how non-verbal communication could be leveraged by faculty to reach educational goals and support individual learning around abstract math concepts. The work is led by Professor Hortensia Soto and described in a new paper published in Problems, Resources, and Issues in Mathematics Undergraduate Studies (PRIMUS). The paper showcases how gestures and body language can be used to explain abstract algebraic ideas that may be difficult for students to engage with through formal teaching methods. The work expands Soto's research into embodied cognition in mathematics educationusing physical gestures along with speech to support students in developing and communicating meaning. To explore that concept in the paper, Soto and her team studied the ways teachers and undergraduate students interacted in an abstract algebra classroom setting that prioritized two-way participation and non-verbal communication. The paper studies how the resulting organic interactions across the classroom focused attention on key concepts while also promoting equity and supporting different learning needs. "Part of this experiment was giving students space to feel free to comment with gesturesnot just in writing or speaking but through their bodies," said Soto, who is part of the Department of Mathematics. "That was already happening in an organic way, but this work shows how teachers can interact with and re-enforce that instinct in students to support learning through multiple senses." To illustrate this concept, Soto noted that many children are often taught that counting on their fingers is not the "right" way to do math. However, using fingers or other types of body movement can reduce the cognitive load required to learn something new, and it benefits students, teachers and even mathematicians. Similarly, incorporating physical materials into lessons can provide students with another medium that helps them express difficult to verbalize ideas. The paper documents and explores these types of activities as the instructor invited students to participate through gestures or re-used a student's organic body language to help further the lesson. Soto said there is no single "right way" to integrate these kinds of activities into the classroom, but that they can be powerful tools to support learning and to communicate concepts. "We convey information to others through the body before we speak. It is not until much later that we get symbols to write our thoughts and words out," she said. "Too often we start with a very formal way of teaching these concepts because that is how we were taught, and students may not be ready for it." Soto said students that learn under this approach may or may not have a better understanding of the material in an assessment setting. Instead, she said the goal of this kind of approach was to support fluency around abstract concepts and to better prepare students to engage with the formal definitions, theorems and proofs that follow. Alissa Romero, a co-author on the paper and graduate student at CSU, said the work held practical implications for teachers at any grade level and was not limited to just gestures. "A teacher might also frame a mathematical idea in terms of everyday experiences before introducing a formal mathematical definition or theorem for example," she said. Jessi Lajos is also a co-author on the paper and an assistant professor at Utah State University. Lajos said the instructor's attention to and use of embodiment in the classroom activities not only supported the student's ability to think abstractly, but also brought play and joy into the classroom. Soto said the research shows that evidence of learning in the classroom doesn't have to look like something procedural or formal. "Not everyone is ready for formalism, and teachers can create activities in their own ways that nurture what students are saying with their bodies," she said. "It requires creativity and re-thinking around how we teach abstract math concepts, but you can start by letting them know that 'your gesture just told me something about what you understood.'" More information: Hortensia Soto et al, Teaching Abstract Algebra Concretely via Embodiment, PRIMUS (2024). DOI: 10.1080/10511970.2024.2310235 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 Remember when COVID-19 hit, and suddenly everyone was working from home? Well, a team of researchers in Montreal and Paris decided to dig deeper into how this shift affected office workers during the pandemic. Led by Universite de Montreal industrial-relations professor Marie-Colombe Afota, they followed 716 employees of a large global financial company in the U.S. and Europe over six months, from September 2020 to March 2021. Published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, the study surveyed people who worked at home at least three days a week and for whom such "high-intensity telecommuting" was something new. Afota and her colleagues were particularly interested in examining the impact of intensive remote work on workers' sense of belonging over time, as well as how fluctuations in feelings of connectedness with colleagues influenced workers' psychological well-being and their perception of the meaningfulness of their work. They found that, sure enough, as time went on, the office workers started feeling less connected to each other. The feeling of being part of a team and being able to shoot the breeze by the water coolerall that started to fade as people spent more time away from their office. "One important finding of the research is that while technologies and telecommuters' devices can facilitate seamless virtual interactions, physical encounters remain essential for cultivating a robust sense of belonging, a fundamental inner human need crucial for overall well-being," said Afota, describing what the participants reported. "And we found that declines in belongingness over time correlate with diminishing perceptions of meaningfulness, highlighting the pivotal role of relationships in shaping people's perceptions of the worth and value of their job," said Afota, who did the study with colleagues in psychology and management at Universite du Quebec a Montreal and the ESCP Business School, in France. Burnout also an issue All this disconnect and questioning led to another big issue for those in the study: emotional exhaustion, a core component of burnout. "Our findings suggest that as people felt more and more disconnected, they also started feeling more tired and worn out," said Afota. "The emotional toll of being away from the office and missing out on those personal connections increasingly weighed on them." Perhaps not surprisingly, employees who especially enjoyed the company of their coworkers before the pandemic struggled more with working remotely. "It's like they were trying so hard to keep those connections alive virtually, but it just wasn't the same," Afota said. "So they ended up feeling even more isolated and disconnected." What can companies learn from all this? First they need to make sure their employees still feel like they're part of a team, even when they're working from their kitchen table, the researchers argue. That might mean setting up virtual hangouts or finding ways for people to get together in person once in a while. And companies also need to keep an eye on how their staff are doing emotionally. If people are feeling disconnected and worn out, it's going to impact their work in the long run, the researchers point out. "Overall, our research suggests that workers don't acclimate to intensive remote work," said Afota." Therefore, organizations should likely consider adopting hybrid remote work approaches and prioritize preserving workers' sense of belonging." More information: MarieColombe Afota et al, Changes in belongingness, meaningful work, and emotional exhaustion among new highintensity telecommuters: Insights from pandemic remote workers, Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1111/joop.12494 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 bright spheres symbolize bound charge carriers (negative and positive) in the material. The light beam separates these charges, which are then deflected in different ways in the applied magnetic field. With the CLIMAT method, around 14 different parameters of the transport properties in semiconductors can be measured with a single measurement, for example, density, lifetime, diffusion lengths, and mobility. Credit: Laura Canil (www.canilvisuals.com) via Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres An HZB physicist has developed a new method for the comprehensive characterization of semiconductors in a single measurement. The "Constant Light-Induced Magneto-Transport (CLIMAT)" is based on the Hall effect and allows the recording of 14 different parameters of transport properties of negative and positive charge carriers. The method has been tested now on twelve different semiconductor materials and will save valuable time in assessing new materials for optoelectronic applications such as solar cells. Solar cells, transistors, detectors, sensors, and LEDs all have one thing in common: they are made of semiconductor materials whose charge carriers are only released when they are hit by light (photons). The photons knock electrons (negative charge carriers) out of their orbits, which move through the material until they are captured again after a certain time. Simultaneously, holes are created in the places where the electrons are missingthese holes behave like positively charged charge carriers and are also important for the performance of the respective application. The behavior of negative and positive charge carriers in semiconductors often differs by orders of magnitude in terms of mobility, diffusion lengths, and lifetime. Until now, the parameters of the transport properties had to be determined separately for each type of charge, using different measurement methods. Single measurement As part of his Maria Skodowska Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship, HZB physicist Dr. Artem Musiienko has now developed a new method that can record all 14 parameters of positive and negative charge carriers in a single measurement. The "Constant Light-Induced Magneto-Transport (CLIMAT)" uses a magnetic field vertically through the sample and a constant light source for charge separation. The charge carriers move along an electric field and are deflected by the magnetic field perpendicular to their direction of movement (Hall effect) according to their mass, mobility, and other properties. A total of 14 different properties can be determined from the signals and, in particular, the differences between the signals of the different charge carriers, Musiienko showed with a neat little system of equations. Positive and negative charge carriers "CLIMAT thus provides a comprehensive insight into the complicated mechanisms of charge transport, both positive and negative charge carriers, with a single measurement. This enables us to evaluate new types of semiconductor materials much more quickly, for example, for their suitability as solar cells or for other applications," says Musiienko. To demonstrate the broad applicability of the new method, research teams at HZB, the University of Potsdam, and other institutions in the U.S., Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine have now used it to characterize a total of twelve very different semiconductor materials, including silicon, halide perovskite films, organic semiconductors such as Y6, semi-insulators, self-assembled monolayers, and nanoparticles. The results have now been published in Nature Communications. Independent experts such as Prof Vitaly Podzorov from Rutgers University, U.S., awarded the CLIMAT method 15 out of 16 points in Nature Electronics and consider the new method to be groundbreaking. In particular, CLIMAT eliminates many of the steps previously required for different measurements, thus saving valuable time. In early 2024, the CLIMAT method was approved for patenting by the European Patent Office under the number EP23173681.0. "Negotiations are currently underway with companies about licensing our method," says Musiienko. The goal is a compact measuring device, about the size of a notebook. More information: Artem Musiienko et al, Resolving electron and hole transport properties in semiconductor materials by constant light-induced magneto transport, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44418-1 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: Atomic Bomb Dome. Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Collective memory is one way to ensure that past mistakes in the evolution of science systems are not repeated after a crisis, disaster or conflict according to a University of Tokyo historian who has contributed to the International Science Council's latest report: "Protecting Science in Times of Crisis." The paper, released today, reflects on the current era of many and varied crises from violent conflicts to natural disasters, and suggests a way forward to develop support systems that will help to prevent the loss of scientists, their work and invaluable research archives and infrastructure. In 2022, the number of people forced to flee due to persecution, conflict, violence and human rights violations reached more than 100 million (UNHCR, 2022). Among those fleeing were scientists, scholars, doctors, engineers, professors and university students. Co-author of the International Science Council's "Protecting Science in Times of Crisis," Dr. Vivi Stavrou said as knowledge brokers, scientists were often the first to be affected, imprisoned and exiled in times of crises yet few people realize the impact the loss of science knowledge and infrastructure has on their country and future generations. "There is currently no shared understanding of how the global scientific community can respond to crises that affect science and scientists, or of how it can coordinate the rebuilding of science systems affected by crises," Dr. Stavrou said. Professor Sayaka Oki from the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Education contributed to the paper with learnings from the Fukushima earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster in 2011 and the post-World War II recovery effort. "Fukushima was a paradigm shift for us because we had never experienced anything like this before. As global negotiations started to happen to respond to the crisis, more information became available than would normally have been released. For example, data on radioactivity became more visible after this incident and people became more aware of the issue," Professor Oki said. "At first, scientists seemed to be really shocked by the tsunami. Firstly, that level of seismic activity hadn't occurred in 1,000 years, which really challenged our construction technologies that are normally based on a 200300-year time scale. The differences of opinion that followed on how to mitigate the risk caused conflict within and outside the science community. "Some science and technology scientists were probably communicating and coordinating a response through their networks, but it seemed rather sporadic. There was no strong single voice which united scientists and that meant communication was left open to rumor and misinformation." Professor Oki says technological and engineering sciences were in demand at the time of both the Fukushima and World War II crises but the lack of support for social sciences was a missed opportunity. "In the immediate aftermath of a disaster it is difficult to have inclusive, comprehensive and reasoned discussions, so we had a real dilemma. A democratic society should have free discussion but in reality, especially for several days after an incident, it can be really difficult to have considered and consistent messaging. So that is when a single voice is needed, but at the same time it needs to be transparent and clear," Professor Oki explained. The report recommends that in times of crises external collaborations can help to bridge the gap of instability and protect the integrity of research. Professor Oki says during WWII science and technology advances were a closely guarded secret but from 1947 a major shift (called "reverse course") occurred in response to the emerging global Cold War that saw the United States and its allies become more interested in promoting Japan's economic and technological development. "Japan received a lot of help, especially from the United States and some countries in Europe, and it really helped to rebuild the academic community at the time. Similarly with Fukushima, Japan needed help with developing some of the robotic technology that was needed to deal with the nuclear power plant. I think both cases revealed that collaboration is critically important and it is possible in times of crisis." When it comes to advice on rebuilding science systems or collaborations, every case is different according to Professor Oki but the Japanese experience has shown that keeping the collective memory active can open pathways to new and more encompassing ways to protect scientists and research in times of crisis. "Unfortunately, during times of conflict libraries and many data were destroyed. People do try to save this kind of infrastructure and memory and that's important to give people the motivation to rebuild their society," Professor Oki said. "For example, cities like Hiroshima and Nagasaki lost many important artifacts and archives and in the process of recovering from such a catastrophic incident, we have tried to unite memories, an effort that is ongoing even today." More information: Report: Protecting Science in Times of Crisis Provided by International Science Council Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific 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: Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.5194/nhess-24-47-2024 Scientists have successfully applied a pair of advanced computer models to simulate last year's wildfire that devastated the Hawaiian town of Lahaina. The development could lay the groundwork for more detailed predictions of wildfires that advance into towns and cities, eventually helping with firefighting efforts and safer evacuations as well as the design of wildfire-resistant communities. The study, led by the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR), brought together a cross-disciplinary team of meteorologists with structural and environmental engineers. Their combined expertise enabled them to simulate how intense winds whipped up a brushfire and drove the flames in various directions through neighborhoods and commercial districts, igniting and destroying a variety of structures amid chaotic evacuations. The study was published in Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences,. Although scientists for years have worked to improve predictions of fires that burn through forests and grasslands in various terrains, they have only recently turned to the even more difficult challenge of predicting how a fire will behave once it encounters populated areas. Such events have become more frequent in the past decade, often with tragic consequences. "It's such a complex situation when fires move from outlying areas into a town, but this study shows that we'll have the capability in the not-too-distant future to predict fire spread within minutes of knowing the location and timing of fire ignition," said NSF NCAR scientist Timothy Juliano, the lead author of the new study. "Our approach can serve as a basis going forward to understanding how extreme weather conditions can affect fire behavior in various types of built environments and ultimately better protect vulnerable communities." Juliano himself witnessed the need for improved prediction when he had to evacuate his house in Louisville, Colorado, during the 2021 Marshall Fire that destroyed more than 1,000 structures. The research team included experts from the University of Buffalo, the University of Nevada Reno, and the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder. Fast-moving wildfires in recent years have devastated communities in such far-flung locations as Superior and Louisville, Colorado; Talent and Phoenix, Oregon; Paradise, California; and Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The Lahaina Fire of August 89, 2023, was especially tragic, killing 100 people and destroying more than 2,200 structures. It was the deadliest U.S. fire in more than a century. In each of these cases, the flames swept from vegetated areas into subdivisions and strip malls during extreme wind events, overwhelming firefighting efforts and inflicting major damage within 12 hours of ignition. Scientists are working to better understand such events, which require painstaking analysis of local atmospheric conditions as well as a determination of how a fire can blaze through woodlands or grasslands and then, once in town, ignite one structure after another. To gain a detailed picture of the Lahaina Fire, the research team paired two computer models with different capabilities. One, the NSF NCARbased Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, was used to simulate the downslope windstorm that erupted on the day of the fire, generating gusts up to 80 miles per hour. The high-resolution model could show the turbulent wind flows around Lahaina and a "hydraulic jump"an event in which winds rushing downhill abruptly rise when they collide with winds flowing in the other direction, setting off chaotic and powerful motions of air. The wind fields from the WRF simulation were fed into the second model, Streamlined Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Tracing (SWUIFT). This model can simulate the spread of flames in a developed area, capturing the ways that extreme heat and shooting embers can set structures ablaze. The simulations captured strong winds on the morning of August 8 flowing down the mountainous slopes of Pu'u Kukui east of Lahaina. These winds encountered a reverse flow, creating a hydraulic jump that would gradually move offshore. By mid-afternoon, the strongest winds were buffeting areas just east of downtown Lahaina, where the fire is believed to have started in dry grass. In the early evening, the hydraulic jump began to move back to the east toward Lahaina and then partially up the slope of Pu'u Kukui. This enveloped the city in especially treacherous wind fields, known as turbulent rotors, with mean winds reversing and flowing from the west to east in contrast with the earlier strong flow of east to west during the ignition. The changes in wind direction proved fateful. The simulation showed that the initial fire spread from about 3:304:30 p.m., moving from vegetation to structures in a narrow path in the same direction as the wind and reaching historic areas by the oceanfront. The fire front then slowly widened and, beginning around 7:30 p.m., accelerated as the change in winds drove the flames in all directions, reaching structures in the southern portion of Lahaina while also continuing to expand northward. "The subsequent, and rather abrupt, shift in the winds to onshore (westerly) and extreme variability was particularly insidious in that it allowed continued fire spread in all directions, and thus, those fleeing the initial east-to-west run did not have a safe haven apart from the ocean," the paper states. "In other words, it was not a simple situation of moving out of the path of the fire." Tracking with witness reports, videos The results from the simulation results generally tracked well with witness reports and recorded videos for the fire spread. The authors noted that, in addition to the unusually strong and turbulent wind fields, multiple factors affected the death toll. They said further research is needed into the role of building construction types, evacuation planning and orders, blocked egress, and population demographics (many of the fire's victims were elderly). Still, even in such a complex situation, Juliano and his co-authors concluded that advanced computer modeling can make a difference when a community is threatened by a fast-moving fire. Their research shows it should be possible to develop new technologies that can run computer simulations in faster than real time to help with firefighting and evacuations. Such technologies can also help guide planning to reduce fire risk long before a conflagration ignites. "I was surprised by how well the simulation came out," Juliano said. "This study demonstrates the potential to develop an active-fire decision support system that can revolutionize the response to fires in the built environment and empower a future in which society coexists with wildfires." More information: Timothy W. Juliano et al, Brief communication: The Lahaina Fire disasterhow models can be used to understand and predict wildfires, Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.5194/nhess-24-47-2024 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 SpaceX is set to send up the 11th launch from the Space Coast this afternoon with a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Base. Liftoff is slated for 3:11 p.m. during a two-hour window from Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 40. The rocket's payload is the Merah Putih 2 satellite for Telkom Indonesia, which is headed for a geosynchronous transfer orbit. A backup opportunity is available Wednesday with a four-hour window opening at 12:53 p.m. Space Launch Delta 45's weather squadron forecasts a greater than 95% chance for good conditions. This is the 17th launch of the first stage booster, and SpaceX will attempt its recovery landing downrange on the Just Read the Instructions droneship in the Atlantic Ocean. One of the most flown of SpaceX's boosters, it previously launched the Crew-3 and Crew-4 human spaceflight missions among others. SpaceX has flown all but one of the launches from the Space Coast so far in 2023 with United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur having flown the other. Elon Musk's company has also flown six missions from California so far this year, so this flight will make it 16 across its three launch pads on both coasts as part of a year that could see as many as 150 launches, according to Musk. That doesn't include test launches from Texas of its in-development Starship and Super Heavy, which is gearing up for its third attempt at a successful suborbital launch as early as next month. 2024 Orlando Sentinel. 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: Anne Heggli inside a snowpit at the Central Sierra Snow Lab on Donner Pass. Credit: Anne Heggli/DRI At the dawn of the new year in 1997, the Truckee River transformed. The winter season had thus far been great for snow, but when a subtropical storm from near the Hawaiian Islands rolled in, it carried with it unseasonably warm rain. The warm rainfall combined with snowmelt to swell the rivers, with the Truckee burying much of downtown Reno under water. Two people were killed amidst the nearly $1 billion disaster, and it wasn't the first nor the last time that warm rains triggered severe flooding in the area. These types of storms, called "rain-on-snow" storms, can produce river flows 50-80% higher than typical spring snowmelt. Nevada cities nestled against the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains are at particularly high risk from these storms: Reno and Carson City have records of flooding linked to these storms as early as 1862 and as recent as 2017. Despite the repeated challenge, predicting when these storms will occur and the risk of flooding remains challenging for scientists. Anne Heggli, Ph.D., of the Desert Research Institute (DRI), is on a mission to change that. Heggli's focus on rain-on-snow began early in her Ph.D. studies after she was approached by a water manager who told her that when it came to these warm storms, they felt like they were flying blind. "They had no idea how the snowpack was going to respond," Heggli said. Understanding how to predict when flooding will or won't occur isn't just important for public safety, but for water conservation as well. This is because water managers will remove water from reservoirs when flooding is expected, releasing it downstream to make room for the incoming flows. When water managers expect a flood that never arrives, the released water isn't replenished, leaving less available for communities to draw from in the long dry season ahead. This is especially problematic for Nevada, the driest state in the nation. With all this in mind, Heggli had the focus of her doctoral dissertation: to identify the weather and snowpack conditions that lead to flooding during rain-on-snow storms. Advancing scientific understanding of rain-on-snow storms Heggli's idea centered on using the existing Snow Telemetry (SNOTEL) Network to monitor real-time conditions in the mountains. This network has more than 800 automated weather stations scattered throughout high-elevation mountains in the Western U.S. Each station monitors the snowpack, precipitation, temperature, and soil conditions in order to help forecast water supply, as mountain snowpacks serve as some of the most critical water reservoirs in this part of the world. Anne and colleague Bjoern Bingham at the Central Sierra Snow Lab's SNOTEL weather station. Credit: Anne Heggli/DRI Each of these stations, Heggli thought, had untapped potential. The measurements taken were being used on a daily timescale, but they were actually collecting hourly data, and it was this information that could help forecast potential floods. "We really use the daily data, but the hourly data has not been applied," Heggli said. "And I felt like there was a great opportunity to analyze it to shave away at some of the uncertainty about how the snowpack responds to rain and help inform the people who are managing our water in the Sierra Nevada." The SNOTEL stations in the Sierra Nevada mountains have included soil moisture sensors since 2006, which Heggli believed could provide insight into how the snowpack is contributing to runoff. "When a rain-on-snow event occurs and the rainfall makes its way through the snowpack, there are these really prominent signals in the soil moisture data, so it's a way to actually verify if the snowpack is releasing rainwater or snowmelt," she says. "The soil moisture data is key for my research because I can identify when the snowpack is releasing water, and then look at the snow density, air temperature, and precipitation," she continued. "That way I can identify the patterns that are present every time the soil moisture has these really dramatic responses to find the ingredients that produce more impactful runoff rain-on-snow events." Heggli's work is helping fill gaps in what scientists know about rain-on-snow storms, such as where the soil moisture is coming from: rainfall, melting snow, or some combination of the two? "It's really about trying to tease out whether the runoff during rain-on-snow events comes from melting snow, or is it just rainfall and increased runoff efficiency?" she says. "What exactly is producing the runoff and why is it so hazardous? What are the ingredients of a perfect storm for those major rain-on-snow flood events?" Heggli's measured the amount of standing water at the base of the snowpack during a December 2022 storm. Credit: Anne Heggli/DRI To help answer these questions, Heggli would head to the Central Sierra Snow Lab during storms. Here, she could dig snow pits that allowed her to see how water was flowing through the snowpack. During one visit, she measured 9 cm of water at the base, which grew to 13 cm by the time she was leaving. "It just really shows that the water is not able to move through the soil anymore and enter the streams that wayit's now making its way over the surface," she says. "And that is something that can really cause a lot of flooding, because it just moves so much quicker." "Anne's work investigating rain-on-snow events is an exciting application of SNOTEL data," said Jeff Anderson, Nevada Water Supply Specialist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). "The SNOTEL weather station network exists so the NRCS can forecast seasonal runoff in the western United States. To accomplish this goal, the NRCS relies on quality-checked daily data from the SNOTEL network." "Rain-on-snow events have produced our region's most impactful floods," he continued. "Anne methodically quality checks and integrates hourly SNOTEL data from a variety of sensors to predict when conditions could result in flooding. This is an important operational advancement in flood prediction, and it is exciting to see how NRCS SNOTEL data can be applied in new ways to benefit the public." Partnerships that produce actionable science Heggli's work is notable not only for the scientific advancements, but also for how she has approached it. She partnered with the National Weather Service early on to ensure she was developing a useful tool for predicting rain-on-snow to help decision makers and emergency managers on the ground. Through an educational partnership program called COMET that promotes university partnerships with NWS offices, she worked with hydrologist Tim Bardsley to co-develop a decision support tool that his own office would ultimately be using to monitor flood risk. This was key, Heggli says, to establishing a productive working relationship that focused on producing research for the stakeholders. When rain falls on snow, it leaves patterns showing the flow of water through the snowpack, what hydrologists refer to as "preferential flow paths." Credit: Anne Heggli/DRI "Anne's work has broadened our understanding of rain on snow, and just how rapidly rain can move through even deep and cold snowpacks to impact soil moisture, stream response and flood risk," Bardsley says. "The tools Anne has developed help us at NWS Reno and the California Nevada River Forecast Center (CNRFC) quickly visualize near real-time data to highlight areas where rain is likely moving through the snowpack. This can help us better understand where and when our models are performing well, or not so well." The result is a tool that produces a map with a color-coded risk scale showing the potential for flooding in real time. For now, the tool is shared with Heggli's partners at the NWS and NDOT so that they can make decisions about how to communicate flood risk to the public and water managers, and prepare emergency resources. "They're the ones that have to respond to flooding and help the communities out," she says. The map currently covers California and Nevada, but Heggli plans to expand it to include all of the SNOTEL stations across the Western U.S. She also has plans to make the tool publicly accessible and interactive through an online portal with DRI's Western Regional Climate Center. "Right now, the tool is showing what's happening on the mountain as it's happening," she says. "But if we can start to bring in probabilistic forecast information, we can see the spread of rainfall and air temperature at the different stations, and then start to communicate 'Okay, we have an 80% chance that rain-on-snow runoff will happen at these lower elevations and a 20% chance at the mid elevations.' It will help shave off uncertainty and forecast what might happen a few days out, which will help optimize water releases in reservoirs without increasing flood risk." Heggli emphasizes that this tool is the only real way that scientists can get information about flooding potential during storms, because satellite data doesn't work with cloud cover and predictive models often omit outlier events"but in the Sierra Nevada, those outliers are the events that impact us the most," she says. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken landed in Brazil on Tuesday for his first trip to the South American nation, arriving amid a diplomatic spat after President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva enraged Washington ally Israel by comparing its Gaza campaign to the Holocaust. Blinken will start his visit in Brasilia, and also go to Rio de Janeiro for a Group of 20 summit, followed by a stop in Argentina, where he will confer with the new President Javier Milei. For the top U.S. diplomat, the belated first trip to the Latin American powers had been seen as an opportunity to build ties with two key leaders, in a break from his exhaustive trips to the Middle East. But the turmoil engulfing that region has unexpectedly followed him. Over the weekend, the 78-year-old veteran leftist Lula, on a trip to Ethiopia for an African Union summit, said that what was happening in the Gaza Strip "isn't a war, it's a genocide." "What's happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people hasn't happened at any other moment in history. Actually, it has happened: when Hitler decided to kill the Jews," Lula said. He received backing Tuesday from the presidents of Colombia and Bolivia, two fellow South American countries to have criticized Israel. The comparison outraged Israel, which declared Lula persona non grata and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Brazilian president had "crossed a red line." State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said of Lula's remarks, "Obviously we disagree with those comments." "We have been quite clear that we do not believe that genocide has occurred in Gaza," Miller told reporters Tuesday. In tit-for-tat escalation, Brazil and Israel have each summoned the other's ambassador, with Brazil recalling its envoy for consultations. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called Lula's comparisons "delusional," and was himself called a liar by his Brazilian counterpart. The war started Oct. 7, when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack that left about 1,160 people dead in southern Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures. Hamas militants also took about 250 hostages 130 of whom remain in Gaza, including 30 presumed dead, according to Israel. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed more than 29,092 people, mostly women and children, according to the latest count by the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. President Joe Biden has been Israel's key backer, with the United States on Tuesday again vetoing a ceasefire call at the Security Council, even as Biden voices concern over the toll on civilians and presses Israel to let in more aid. Outspoken Brazilian leaders The potentially awkward encounter with Lula comes after hopes of a new start in U.S.-Brazil relations. Blinken's first trip as secretary of state to Brazil comes more than three years into his tenure, an unusually long wait to visit the Western Hemisphere's second most populous nation. But the Biden administration had limited interest in dealing with Lula's predecessor, the far-right Jair Bolsonaro, an ally of former president Donald Trump who similarly scoffed at climate action and is under investigation for an alleged attempt to overturn a democratic election. Lula, who previously served as president from 2003 to 2010, traveled to Washington and met with Biden after returning to power early last year. The two veteran politicians found common cause on prioritizing climate change, labor rights and democratic values. But Lula has already shown his divergence with the United States on the international stage with his stance on Ukraine. He has charged that both Ukraine and its Western backers bear partial responsibility for the war, not just Russia, which invaded almost exactly two years ago. The G20 meeting of foreign ministers in Rio de Janeiro will also mark a rare occasion since the war in which Blinken will be in the same room as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. At the last G20 foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi in March 2023, Blinken held his only one-on-one in-person meeting, albeit briefly, with Lavrov since the war. No meeting has been announced in Rio, and Washington is moving to take more punitive steps toward Russia after the death in prison of Alexei Navalny, the top opponent of President Vladimir Putin. Blinken will head after Rio to Argentina to see Milei, who took office in December on a libertarian, anti-establishment platform. In a sharp contrast with Lula, Milei is one of the most vocal international supporters of Israel. Milei has promised to move Argentina's embassy to Jerusalem, a step taken only by the United States and four small countries. (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: CC0 Public Domain One in three police homicides could have been avoided without endangering police or the public, according to a study published in PNAS Nexus. Eight percent of all homicides of adult men in the United States are committed by police. Using data from 20082017 from the National Officer-Involved Homicide Database, Josh Leung-Gagne compared police homicide rates across the 711 local police departments serving 50,000 or more residents in the United States. One explanation for differing rates of police killings is that some jurisdictions are riskier than others, which necessitates more force to keep the public and officers safe. Leung-Gagne compared police homicide rates among departments with similar levels of risk and projected what each department's rate would have been under average risk conditions, which he quantified using data on violence against officers and officer exposure to violent and other crimes. Leung-Gagne also controlled for differing likelihoods of surviving uses of deadly force, by factoring in access to a trauma care facility. Comparing adjusted rates, Leung-Gagne finds police departments facing similar risks kill at substantially different rates. The deadliest departments kill 6.91 times more frequently than the least deadly departments. If no police departments killed more people than their average peer who faces similar risks, then there would be about a third fewer police homicides overall. Leung-Gagne interprets the data to suggest that at least one in three police homicides by mid-to-large local police departments are excess police homicides, unnecessary to maintain officer or public safety. According to Leung-Gagne, police homicides can be reduced without reducing officer safety and effectiveness. More information: Josh Leung-Gagne, The deadliest local police departments kill 6.91 times more frequently than the least deadly departments, net of risk, in the United States, PNAS Nexus (2024). DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae026. academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/art /3/2/pgae026/7611023 Journal information: PNAS Nexus Provided by PNAS Nexus This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Map of Europe and the Mediterranean Sea locating regions affected by drought from February 1-10, 2024, according to the European Drought Observatory. Drought plaguing the Mediterranean has failed to recede over winter months that brought below-average rainfall, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service has reported, prompting water restrictions and state of emergency declarations. Just over 45 percent of southern Europe suffered from soil drought, with 2.8 percent reaching the highest "alert" level, over the first 10 days of February, according to the latest data from the European Drought Observatory (EDO) analysed by AFP. Meanwhile a quarter of all Europe and northern Africa is under drought conditions, according to Copernicus, with 19.3 percent of the region's soil at a "warning" level, meaning a moisture deficit is underway. An alert level is impacting 2.5 percent of the region, meaning vegetation is growing abnormally due to the advanced stage of the drought, according to calculations by AFP. The situation has worsened since the end of January, but has slightly improved compared with the same period last year that saw 31.3 percent of the territory under drought. The western Mediterranean region has been particularly hard-hit, including southern Italy, Spain, northern Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. Warmer than usual seasonal temperatures are the culprit. Last month was the warmest January on record globally, according to Copernicus, combined with a lack of precipitation that in some regions has lasted months, and even years. Water levels at the Sau reservoir in Catalonia, one of the main ones providing water to Barcelona, at below 4,06% after three years of drought. Faced with "its worst drought in a century", according to Catalonia regional president Pere Aragones, a state of emergency was issued including new restrictions on water. The regions reservoirs had fallen below the level of 16 percent. Figures by Copernicus relate to soil dryness, visible by satellites, and not groundwater. In France, the southern Pyrenees-Orientales region to the south faced "very worrying" levels of groundwater, its main reserve for drinking water, according to the organisation that monitors it. The Italian island of Sicily declared a drought emergency at the beginning of February, while in Sardinia, farmers were slapped with restrictions on water use. Morocco, where temperatures recently approached 37 degrees Celsius (98 degrees Fahrenheit), is experiencing its sixth consecutive year of drought. The climate situation may not get any better. The EDO has forecasted spring 2024 to be warmer than usual for Europe and the Mediterranean, which will compound a shortfall in snow over several mountain ranges that are responsible for recharging rivers over the coming months. 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: Knud Bergslien's painting "Birkebeinerne" (1869) shows the Birkebeiners Torstein Skevla and Skjervald Skrukka fleeing from the Baglers with the little Hakon Hakonsson, the king's son, to the Birkebeiner's "capital" Nidaros in 1206. The Birkebeiners were a rebellious party in Norway, formed in 1174 around the pretender to the Norwegian throne Eystein Meyla. The name, which means birch legs in Norwegian, comes from the idea that they used birch bark to make their shoes. Hakon Hakonsson son was Magnus VI, who introduced the Code of the Realm, which continues to have influence in Norway today. Credit: The Ski Museum. Holmenkollen, Oslo, Norway. In 1274, King Magnus VI, the Law Mender, united the entire Norwegian kingdom under one common law. The Norwegian Code of the Realm remained in force for over 400 years, and in it lie the seeds that would grow into Norway's rule of law and the idea of popular co-determination. The Norwegian Code of the Realm is one of the most important historical documents we have in Norway. Some 750 years ago, Norway established a law that applied to the whole country, making it one of the first kingdoms in Europe with such a law. Only Sicily and Castile in Spain introduced similar laws earlier, but they were not as successful as the Norwegian Code of the Realm. Norway became a pioneering country in this area, not least because the law worked so well and was in use for so long. Towns were classed as separate legislative areas and received a separate Code of the Towns in 1276. The Birkebeiners ascended to the throne after a hundred years of civil war The background to King Magnus VI uniting Norway under one common law was 100 years of power struggles and civil war. The Birkebeiners and the Baglers fought each other in the final phase of the dispute over the right to and control of the throne. The Birkebeiners had to flee with the young son of King Haakon Haakonsson from Eastern Norway to Nidaros in order to bring him to safety, and the dramatic escape took place on skis. Haakon Haakonsson eventually gained power in Norway as the sole king and began a phase in Norwegian medieval history that saw the kingdom's power and position considerably strengthened. His son, Magnus VI, continued to develop and strengthen the monarchy, and he became known as Magnus the Law Mender because of the Code of the Realm he introduced, in which he 'mended' the laws. 'Law mender' refers to the fact that he implemented the most comprehensive legislative reform ever carried out in Norway. Not only was this a comprehensive undertaking, but the content of the Code also inspired confidence and trust in the lawa legacy that still permeates Norwegian society today. "Norwegian society is a society governed by law, with a long legal tradition. We generally have a high level of trust in the law and public administration, and an important reason for this lies in Norway's history and Magnus VI's Code of the Realm," says Erik Opsahl, Professor of Medieval History and head of the Centre for Medieval Studies at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Important for Norwegian identity Magnus VI's Norwegian Code of the Realm has also been important in creating and maintaining a common Norwegian identity and awareness of Norwegian society during the long union with Denmark, which lasted for 400 years. The Norwegian Code of the Realm helped to maintain Norway as a separate legislative area within the union. "For many hundreds of years, we were part of a larger political system, and the Norwegian Code of the Realm was an important foundation for Norwegian values during the union years." "The Norwegian Code of the Realm is an important institution in Norwegian history, and although Norway was strongly influenced by Danish law and administration in the union, Norwegian law was nevertheless the starting point for the rule of the union monarchs in Norway," says Opsahl. A humane law that safeguarded the vulnerable The new law abolished revenge killings, and it was no longer permitted to carry out vendettas. Previously, it had been expected that family and relatives would avenge murder with murder. The new law also restricted the practice of taking the law into one's own hands. "This breaks with old traditions and marks a step towards a modern mindset where individual responsibility is more evident. The Code also shows great awareness of society's duty to take extra care of vulnerable individuals," says Erik Opsahl. For example, the poor were not to be punished if they stole food to feed themselves or their family members. They were classed as 'the worthy needy'. "The law was perceived as fair, and it provided predictability and security. It was clearly not perceived as an instrument used by the elite to protect their own rights and interests. If the Norwegian Code of the Realm had been perceived as bad and unfair, it would not have become as firmly rooted as it did," says Erik Opsahl. Laymen took on the role of lay judges Previously, the country had been divided into four legislative areas, each with its own assembly that functioned as a court: Frostating, Gulating, Eidsivating, and Borgarting. The four assemblies remained important meeting places and courts, but they fell under a common law in 1274 and became more closely aligned with the nationwide royal administrative apparatus. Next to the judge, the 'law speaker', there were laymen who took on the role of lay judges in the assembly. "Although there are obvious risks in drawing long historical lines, it can be claimed that traces of Magnus VI's Code of the Realm can still be found in today's Norwegian legal system, with a large proportion of lay people in the courts and with a simpler and more directly hierarchical court system than in many other countries," says Opsahl. This magnificent example of Magnus VI's Norwegian Code of the Realm belongs to the Royal Danish Library in Copenhagen. It is currently on loan to the National Library of Norway in Oslo and exhibited there together with other books from the Middle Ages. Credit: Photo: Gorm K. Gaare, National Library of Norway Use of discretion One of the reasons the Norwegian Code of the Realm gained such a firm foothold was that it was established locally. The Code states that "only a fool keeps to the letter of the law if the law is too strict or too lenient." Instead, the Code was to be used to pass fair judgment, and the text was intended as a starting point that could then be adapted locally. The way it worked was that law speakers appointed by the King traveled around and collaborated with local lay judges to pass judgments. In other words, the Norwegian Code of the Realm facilitated the use of discretion. "And when the law facilitates the use of discretion, it also facilitates dialogue," says Erik Opsahl. The Norwegian Code of the Realm laid the foundation for trust in the judicial system. "Then there is a discussion about whether this trust can sometimes result in people being a little naive towards the government and politicians. Corruption, in one form or another, seems to be more prevalent in Norway than we like to think. It also seems that Norwegians sometimes have problems fully understanding impartiality," says Opsahl. A model for other countries The Norwegian Code of the Realm most likely served as a model for the Swedish Code of the Realm that was introduced around 1350. The various parts of the Norwegian monarchs' kingdom in the High Middle Ages, popularly called the 'Norwegian Realm', were either directly governed by the Norwegian Code of the Realm, such as Shetland and the Faroe Islands, or received their own variant, such as Iceland. Iceland turned to Norway and King Magnus VI for help in drafting an Icelandic law that could restore law and order after a period of unrest in the country. The power of the church and the King Magnus IV's Norwegian Code of the Realm became a unifying Norwegian symbol over time. During the Middle Ages, what we today call state power was divided between the monarchy and the church. In the 13th century, the church and the king operated side by side, where both had the power and authority to be both legislative and judicial. The Law of the Realm did not clarify where the boundary between these two powers should be. King Magnus then entered into an agreement with the church, the Sttargjerden (settlement), in 1273 and 1277. The agreement appeared to be a compromise, but Magnus' successors refused to approve the agreement because it was perceived as giving the church too much power. Only in 1458 was it approved by Kristian 1, the union king. The Danish era Magnus IV's Norwegian Code of the Realm w had an important place in Norwegian society from the time it was introduced until 1687. Even when Norway became subject to Denmark as a sovereign during the Reformation in 1537, the Norwegian law continued to apply. When the Danish "coup maker" Christian III sent his son Fredrik (later Fredrik II) to Norway as a representative of his father and himself to be honored, the Danish king Christian instructed his son that he should promise on behalf of his father and himself to rule the Norwegians by "the laws of Saint Olav and the Kingdom of Norway." A unique and well-used copy There are 42 surviving copies of Magnus VI's Norwegian Code of the Realm. Three of them are in Norwegian ownership, and one of them is located in the Gunnerus Library in Trondheim. This is a copy that was meant for everyday use, more like a pocket law book that law speakers could easily carry around on their travels when visiting the local courts. The copy is from the latter half of the 14th century and bears signs of frequent use. "This copy of Magnus VI's Norwegian Code of the Realm is one of the most important items we have in our collection. It is one of the few surviving books we have in Norway written in Old Norse. As the Danish era progressed, the Norse language disappeared, so this law book represents an important element in Norwegian history and identity," says Per-Olav Broback Rasch, historian and Research Librarian at NTNU University Library's Special Collections. When Norway left the union with Denmark, anything that referred to Norwegian identity, culture, and history became very important. This unique copy of Magnus VI's Norwegian Code of the Realm is part of that heritage. Per-Olav Broback Rasch says that it has been owned by Christoffer Hammer. Hammer was a government official, author, and collector. In 1804, his extensive library (2000 volumes), a collection of natural rarities, and 20,000 coins were bequeathed to the Royal Norwegian Society of Sciences and Letters (DKNVS) in Trondheim. Hammer's legacy enabled DKNVS to function as a research council, which was of great importance in the 1800s as research funding was difficult to obtain. NTNU now has responsibility for DKNVS's historic collections, which are conserved as part of the university library's special collections. Firefighters from Queensbury Central Volunteer Fire Company responded to an alarm at Daves Hot Chicken in the Queensbury Plaza at the intersection of Route 9 and Quaker Road Wednesday morning Feb. 21. Second Assistant Chief Bill St. John, said Weve got our guys in there just investigating what happened. Generally a drop in water pressure inside the sprinkler system will set-off the alarm. It could have been a frozen and broken pipe, or some other drop in pressure. There was nothing going on inside the store that we know of. The low temperature early Wednesday morning was in the teens. The New York Racing Association, Inc. will host a job fair to support the historic Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course. The job fair will be held on the first floor of the 1863 Club. Applicants should enter through the Wright Street entrance (Gate 8) with parking available in the 1863 Club lot. Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2 to 6 p.m. Highlighted by the 156th edition of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 8, the 2024 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival begins Thursday, June 6 and continues through Sunday, June 9. The Festival will be held at Saratoga Race Course to allow for the uninterrupted construction of a new and reimagined Belmont Park, the Long Island home of the third leg of the Triple Crown. Employment opportunities for the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will be available with the following NYRA partners: All Pro, Integrated Staffing, Levy Restaurants, Mazzone Hospitality and Union Square Events. Positions will include restaurant staff, mutuel clerks, cashiers, cleaners, merchandise clerks and others. Applicants must be at least 15 years of age and have New York State Certified Working Papers. Prospective security guards, cashiers and betting clerks must be at least 18 years of age to apply; security guards must have a high school diploma or GED. All applicants must present a photo ID and Social Security card or I-9 alternative. For additional information about the 2024 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course, visit BelmontStakes.com. 1863 Club Saratoga Race Course 267 Union Ave. Saratoga Springs, N.Y. ATLANTIC CITY A new concert stage in front of the Island Waterpark at the Showboat Resort Atlantic City will host the Allman Brothers-themed Peach at the Beach concert July 13. Joe Russos Almost Dead will headline the event, joined by Dogs in a Pile, Karina Rykman, Mykal Rose of Black Uhuru and Trouble No More, who will perform the Allman Brothers Band album Eat a Peach in its entirety. The Peach Music Festival began in 2012 as the first-ever Allman Brothers Band-inspired festival. Traditionally held at the Pavilion at Montage Mountain and Montage Mountain Ski Resort in Scranton, Pennsylvania, it is adored by music enthusiasts nationwide, according to a news release. This is going to be a lot of fun, said Ike Richman, a spokesperson for concert promoter LiveNation. Were really looking forward to it. LiveNation is producing Peach at the Beach in partnership with the Allman Brothers Band. LiveNation has produced various beach concerts and festivals in the resort, including Phish and the TidalWave and Adjacent music festivals. Tickets can be purchased at livenation.com. An early bird sale will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday ahead of the general on-sale at 10 a.m. Friday. A Super VIP package, which includes access to a Friday night pre-party set, a Saturday late night set and passes to the waterpark Saturday, will be available for purchase. VIP and general admission tickets will include passes to the waterpark Saturday with additional amenities. For more information, follow Peach at the Beach on social media at @PeachMusicFest. 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. GLASSBORO The Sweeney Center for Public Policy will host its third energy conference, Moving Forward on Offshore Wind: New Challenges, New Competition, on Wednesday at Rowan University. New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Christine Guhl-Sadovy and Economic Development Authority CEO Tim Sullivan will be the opening speakers. The conference comes in the wake of two major events last month: the BPUs award of contracts to Leading Light Wind and Attentive Energy to generate 3.7 gigawatts of offshore wind with turbines using monopiles and towers manufactured in New Jersey, and the operational launch of the nations first commercial-scale offshore wind farm, Vineyard Wind, off Massachusetts. The conference will be held from 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Rowans Business Hall, Conference Room 104, 201 Mullica Hill Road. To view the conference online, visit youtube.com/live/M9q58JCx1Bo?feature=share. rsteds decision to pull out of its Ocean Wind projects in New Jersey was a serious setback and followed the cancellation of three New England projects, said Mark Magyar, Sweeney Center director, in a statement. However, the latest round of BPU awards not only reinvigorated New Jerseys offshore wind initiative, but also guaranteed that those turbines will be built on monopiles and towers manufactured in New Jersey. In addition to Guhl-Sadovy and Sullivan, speakers at the conference will include: Clean Ocean Action to host public hearing on offshore wind Clean Ocean Action will hold a public hearing Tuesday on expansion of offshore wind development off the coast. Wes Jacobs, project director, Leading Light Wind Damian Bednarz, managing director, Attentive Energy Terence Kelly, head of external affairs, Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind Dan Kent, labor relations manager, Vineyard Offshore Anne Reynolds, vice president of offshore wind, American Clean Power Association Dan Fatton, director, offshore wind sector, New Jersey Economic Development Authority Paulina OConnor, executive director, New Jersey Offshore Wind Alliance Vineyard Wind proved that industrial-scale offshore wind development on the Atlantic Seaboard is achievable and offers a roadmap for New Jersey to follow, said Magyar, who authored a report, "Benchmarking New Jersey on Offshore Wind," last May. New York State awarded contracts to generate 4.1 gigawatts from offshore wind in October, and the federal government awarded final approvals last month for Virginias 2.5-gigawatt Dominion Wind. Despite the setbacks, offshore wind development is moving forward. President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Russia was against the deployment of nuclear weapons in space, and his defence minister flatly denied U.S. claims that Russia was developing a nuclear capability for space. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that Washington believes Moscow is developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon whose detonation could disrupt everything from military communications to phone-based ride services. "Our position is clear and transparent: We have always been categorically against and are now against the deployment of nuclear weapons in space," Putin told Sergei Shoigu, his defence minister. "We urge not only compliance with all agreements that exist in this area, but also offered to strengthen this joint work many times," Putin said. He added that Russia's activities in space did not differ from those of other countries, including the United States. The clearest public sign that Washington thinks Moscow is working on a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon was a White House spokesperson's comment on Thursday that the system being developed would violate the Outer Space Treaty. The 1967 treaty bars signatories including Russia and the United States from placing "in orbit around the earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction." The New York Times has reported that the U.S. intelligence was related to Russias attempts to develop a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon. 'No such projects' Commenting on the U.S. allegation, Shoigu said there were no plans of the kind outlined by the unidentified sources in the United States. "Firstly, there are no such projects - nuclear weapons in space. Secondly, the United States knows that this does not exist," Shoigu told Putin. He accused the White House of trying to scare U.S. lawmakers into allocating more funds for Ukraine as part of Washington's plan to inflict what he said was a strategic defeat on Russia. He said the second reason for the leaked information about the alleged Russian weapon was to encourage Russia to engage in a dialogue about strategic stability. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has led to the most serious confrontation between Moscow and the West since the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, and the post-Cold War arms control architecture has crumbled. Putin said Russia had never been against discussions about strategic stability, but he said it was impossible to divide what he said was the West's aim to defeat Russia and talks about strategic security. "If they seek to inflict a strategic defeat on us, then we must think about what strategic stability means for our country," Putin said. "Therefore, we do not reject anything, we do not give up anything, but we need to figure out what they want. They usually want to achieve unilateral advantages. That's not going to happen." Putin did not rule out talks at defence and foreign ministry level with the United States on strategic stability. (Reuters) Street Cop, the police training company under investigation for a controversial conference it hosted in Atlantic City in 2021, has declared bankruptcy. Owner Dennis Benigno filed the petition late last month, one day after he said the state Attorney Generals Office warned him it would seek monetary penalties as part of its probe into a Street Cop conference the state Comptrollers Office said glorified violence, encouraged insubordination and promoted unconstitutional policing tactics. The state investigations capped a rocky year for the company, attorney Daniel Velasquez wrote. It was already suffering from a $210,000 wrongful termination lawsuit and a $500,000 software failure when the comptrollers report dropped in December, Velasquez said. That bombshell report drove several Street Cop instructors to resign and at least nine states New Jersey, Maryland, California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada and Oregon to prohibit their law enforcement agencies from attending Street Cop training, according to the filing. Rather than subject the Debtors depleted staff to additional harassment from the State of New Jersey, Street Cop Training elected to pursue Chapter 11 relief to restructure its financial affairs, dispute claims, and preserve its going concern value for the ultimate benefit of its creditors and estate, Velasquez wrote. Chapter 11 cases, known as reorganization bankruptcies, allow debtors to continue operating their business, retain their assets, and even borrow new money, with court approval, while they restructure their finances. Creditors also are required to hold off on collecting what theyre owed. Benigno listed about 20 creditors who are owed almost $420,000, including the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, where Street Cop is set to host a five-day, $699-per-attendee convention starting April 28. Its unclear if the bankruptcy will impact that conference. Benigno founded Street Cop in 2012 after stints as an officer in the Woodbridge Police Department, Middlesex County Department of Corrections and U.S. Park Police. Within a decade, it became one of the busiest police training firms nationally. In court paperwork, the firm says it trains more than 25,000 officers a year throughout the U.S. But one of the 1,000 people who attended its October 2021 conference at an Atlantic City casino shared recordings with a Washington Post reporter, who used the conference to illustrate the alarming lessons officers learn in an industry that largely operates without oversight. In court filings this month, Benigno cited as his reasons for filing bankruptcy the Posts politically motivated hit piece, other media coverage and the comptrollers investigation. Benigno sued in state court to fight the comptrollers subpoenas for his testimony and records relating to the conference, complaining that the state wasnt scrutinizing other police training firms and accusing state officials of overreach and political motivations. He lost that case but sued again in federal court, accusing the comptrollers office of harassment and retaliation. Last week, a federal judge tossed the federal case. Benignos attorney, Jonathan Cohen, told the New Jersey Monitor Tuesday they would not appeal that decision because the fight is now moot. Benigno submitted to the comptrollers interview in October, he noted. Whatever his troubles now, Benignos bankruptcy filings show his work has been lucrative. The firm had gross revenue of $3.5 million in 2021 and $3.75 million in 2022. He reported he had about $209,000 in cash on hand, audio and visual equipment worth about $7,000, and branded items and apparel. The company has 12 independent instructors who work as needed and six employees tasked with booking trainings, marketing, selling merchandise and facilitating state education credits for its courses, according to filings. It listed $211,000 in unsecured debt obligations. Benigno filed for bankruptcy Jan. 31 in Florida, listing a luxury apartment complex in Melbourne, Florida, as his business address. Street Cops website, though, lists two different New Jersey addresses for its corporate headquarters and mailing address. Officers hit the streets in Atlantic City for new community policing program ATLANTIC CITY Officer Nick Grasso pointed to four small bullet holes in the front of a row Sharon Lauchaire, a spokeswoman for New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, said Tuesday that 240 officers from New Jersey agencies attended Street Cops 2021 conference, and all would be retrained next month. Among the local agencies from which officers attended were Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Brigantine, Hamilton Township, Pleasantville, Millville and Vineland. After the comptrollers office tipped Platkins office to its findings in March 2023, Platkin ordered State Police to stop any involvement with Street Cop and suspended reimbursements, Lauchaire added. He also directed the Police Training Commission last year to consider statewide guidelines for acceptable police training provided by outside vendors, she said. A new state law requiring officers to be licensed also requires that commission to develop mandatory training, and the commission now is expanding its curriculum staff to establish continuing education standards and devise uniform training for all officers, she said. The civil rights division in Platkins office also is investigating, she added. Instruction and comments at Street Cops conference were deeply troubling, potentially unconstitutional, and certainly unacceptable and inconsistent with the States commitment to fair, just, and safe policing, Lauchaire said. Criminal defense attorneys have warned that cases involving officers who attended the training could collapse in court. Pam Kruger, a spokeswoman for the comptrollers office, said their investigation isnt over. The Office of the State Comptrollers report showed that Street Cops training promoted likely illegal tactics, glorified violence, and demeaned women and minorities. New Jersey should not pay for that kind of police training, and its not surprising that other states came to that same conclusion, Kruger said. OSCs investigation is ongoing as there is more work to do. This story first appeared on the New Jersey Monitor. ATLANTIC CITY City Council will consider a resolution Wednesday night to share the cost of 12 new police officers with the Board of Education, to provide security in city schools. If passed, the agreement will allow the city to move ahead in hiring 30 new police officers using a $3.75 million federal grant that will cover about half of the cost of the officers for three years. The board has agreed to fund half of the unfunded cost of up to 10 school resource officers, as well as two Class III special law enforcement officers, according to the resolution. The federal Community Oriented Policing (COPS) grant covers about half of the cost of hiring 30 officers for three years, police Chief James Sarkos has said. The matching funds for the other 18 officers will be provided by the city. They will be assigned to a traffic unit and other duties, officials have said. Class III officers are authorized to exercise the full powers and duties of a police officer for schools but may not be assigned to non-school duties, according to state law. They must be retired full-time law enforcement officers and meet other requirements. The federal grant was awarded in November, and in January the citys police union urged the city to move quickly to hire additional officers after the new year started with five homicides in the span of a month, compared with seven in the entirety of 2023. Atlantic City faces a myriad of issues as State of the City approaches Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. has said he will make some big announcements at this year's State of the City address. But will they be big enough to draw attention away from lingering problems and create new optimism for the city? There also is an ordinance up for a final vote on council's agenda that would expand the city's Green Zone, where cannabis businesses are allowed, to include Kentucky Avenue from Atlantic to Arctic avenues. A provision that would have also included much of Albany Avenue west of the bridge has been removed from the ordinance. An ordinance up for introduction would increase the set rates for rolling chair rides. The least expensive ride of up to five blocks would increase from $5 to $10, and the cost of 22 to 32 blocks would increase from $20 to $1 per block. Another ordinance setting tram fees would increase the cost of one-way adult tram fares from $4 to $5, but would also eliminate all requirements on who can be a tram operator. In the past, tram operators had to get a special city license and pay a $100 fee for the initial license and a $60 renewal fee. They also had to provide proof of citizenship and submit to drug testing and fingerprints for a criminal background check. Those requirements would be eliminated under the new ordinance. Tram operators will still have to have a valid New Jersey commercial driver's license under the new ordinance. There will be a noticeable difference in riverboat visitors to the Quad-Cities this summer. American Queen Voyages, a popular riverboat cruise company, has shut down indefinitely. The company made the announcement on its website, citing an inability to rebound from the effects of the pandemic. The closure stems from parent company Hornblower Group, announcing it has been acquired. As part of the restructuring, AQV was shut down due to its "underperformance." "The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable," the announcement reads. "We are therefore shutting down the business, and all future AQV cruises have been cancelled." The company's Mississippi River cruises made stops in Muscatine and Bettendorf last summer. It operated multiple riverboats along the Mississippi, including the American Queen, American Duchess and American Countess. It also offered cruises along other rivers in the Midwest and in the Pacific Northwest. In 2023 alone, American Queen brought in 2,165 visitors to the Quad-Cities region, said Dave Herrell, CEO of Visit Quad Cities, who called the decision "disappointing." Their presence, alongside all our river cruise partners, contributes significantly to enriching our regional destination with vibrant tourism experiences and exploration of the Mississippi River. Visit Quad Cities will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates to stakeholders who may be affected," he said. In its statement, the company said it was appreciative and proud of its crew. "We are deeply proud of our crew and the outstanding travel experiences and service we have provided to our guests. As we reflect on the journey we have shared over the years, we are filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving our guests, partners and agents and for being part of our incredible local communities," it said. Refunds will be issued, the company stated. Claims can be filed online. This story may be updated as more information becomes available. The American Queen cruise ship docks in Bettendorf on its river voyage DES MOINES Iowa Senate lawmakers passed a bill on Tuesday that would repeal requirements that Iowas boards and commissions have an equal number of men and women. Supporters of the Senate File 2096 said the gender balance rules are an unfair quota and members of boards and commissions should be selected only by their merit and qualifications. Opponents said it rolls back a landmark achievement toward gender equity in the state. Iowas laws requiring a gender balance on its administrative boards, which were passed to address a lack of women and gender discrimination on the boards, have been in place since 1987. The mandate was extended to city and county boards in 2012. According to research from Iowa State Universitys Carrie Chapman Catt Center, Iowa was the first state to require gender-balanced boards and commissions, and it is the only state to require gender balance for all levels of government. The bill passed the chamber 32-15, with support from Republicans and opposition from nearly all Democrats. It would need to pass in the House and be signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds before becoming law. Senate Democrats, who largely opposed the bill, used debate time on Tuesday to point out areas where they see gender discrimination persisting today. Sen. Janet Petersen, D-Des Moines, said that women are often not treated the same as men in medical decisions and women must pay more for products and services. We need to be intentional to be inclusive, she said. Gender balance doesnt just magically happen overnight, and weve seen, even with Iowa being first in the country for gender balance, we still havent gotten there. Sen. Annette Sweeney, a Republican from Iowa Falls, acknowledged women still face barriers in the state, but she said the current system means women end up on the boards only to fill a quota. She said she does not want women on boards to be a token female. I want to be there because I earned it, she said. I want to be there because Ive done my homework, and I know why Im on this board. Rep. Herman Quirmbach of Ames was the sole Democrat to vote in favor of axing the gender balance requirements during debate. He pointed to women graduating college at a higher rate than men and said women are going into the workforce well qualified to compete on their merits without a balance being mandated by law. A federal judge this year struck down the gender balance requirement for the State Judicial Nominating Commission, arguing it violates the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. House OKs bill allowing teens to work unsupervised for brief periods in some child care settings Iowa 16- and 17-year-olds would be allowed to care for younger children unsupervised for brief periods at child care centers. House File 2305 passed the Iowa House on a 55-36 vote, with Democrats largely opposed. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration, where it will need to win approval before being sent to the governor to be signed into law. The bill states teenage child care workers would be allowed to watch children under the age of 5 by themselves to cover brief absences of an adult staff member for no more than five minutes, during nap times or other breaks. Proponents said the bill will help short-staffed child care centers have more flexibility. The original bill would have required the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to amend its administrative rules to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to care for infants and toddlers up to age 5 at child care centers, without additional supervision, provided that at least two adults employed by the center were present. Lawmakers in 2022 passed and Gov. Kim Reynolds signed legislation allowing child care centers the ability to hire 16- and 17-year-olds to work or substitute in their facilities without adult supervision, as long as they're caring for school-aged children. Previously, child care workers had to be 18 to work unsupervised. Having been brought this piece of legislation by child care providers in our state and knowing that we have young people in our state that have a passion for learning more about early childhood development and education, I am happy to move this bill forward, Rep. Devon Wood, R-New Market, said on the House floor. Rep. Austin Baeth, D-Des Moines, said hes heard from child workers and providers who are concerned the bill may leave open a window of opportunity in which those periods of time, based on the letter of this bill, that whats construed as brief may go longer and face unsafe situations where you have children watching children. Penalties for swatting Increased penalties for swatting the term for when an individual calls public safety agencies with fake warnings of criminal or violent activity in order to draw a response from law enforcement passed unanimously in the Iowa Senate. Under Senate File 2161, swatting would become a Class D felony in Iowa, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine between $750 and $7,500. Any swatting incident that resulted injury or death would be a Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine between $1,000 and $10,000. With its passage out of the Senate, Senate File 2161 is eligible for consideration in the Iowa House. Left-lane driving ban Driving in the left lane of traffic without passing would be illegal, and punishable by a $135 fine, under legislation approved by the Iowa Senate. Senate File 2116 would require drivers, when there are two or more lanes of traffic moving in the same direction, to use the left lane only for passing other vehicles. The bill passed the Senate with bipartisan support, on a 38-8 vote, and is now eligible for consideration in the Iowa House. Correction: The number of lanes to qualify for Senate File 2116 has been corrected. It's that time of the year when I have to file my taxes and I have to say that I'm not looking forward to it. If it were any sort of normal year, maybe it wouldn't be a problem. Maybe I'd even be looking forward to marking it off my checklist. But I tell you what, figuring out taxes is especially difficult this year because in 2023, I lived in four states across three time zones and worked six different jobs. If I hear the word W-2 or 1099 one more time I'm going to lose it. Some stability would be welcome in 2024, a goal that's already been reflected in my typically volatile music listening habits. Last year, I darted from Arizona to Minnesota to Nevada to the Q-C and listened to just about everything. This year, I'm moving at a slower pace. Sure, I'm still a music fanatic listening to a relative ton of new records, but I'm being more deliberate. I'm sitting with the new albums that mean the most to me, building a home within their walls, reflecting on why it is that I enjoy them. I think there's value in that. So as I procrastinate wrangling a half-dozen pesky tax forms, I thought I'd share the albums that have resonated the most so far. Here are my favorite records of 2024, as of mid-February. Liquid Mike - Paul Bunyan's Slingshot The way I see it, this is the new year's first album of the year candidate. I enjoyed Liquid Mike's 2023 full-length "S/T," but "Paul Bunyan's Slingshot" has the Michigan emo band operating on another plane. The hooks alone on this record are some of the best I've seen out of a DIY band in a long time. Sonically, it's written with the infectiousness of late-90s pop alternative and the urgency of a hardcore house show. "Mouse Trap" is a standout, an earwormy critique of the American dream that conjures memories of early Everclear and Sum 41. I fully expect "Paul Bunyan's Slingshot" to stand the test of time and be a year-defining record for the genre. I'm driving to Wisconsin this weekend just to see them at Burn Bright MKE, a two-day emo festival in Cudahy. NewDad - MADRA I knew nothing about NewDad before this year but I'm glad I'm familiar, now. The Irish alt-pop four-piece released their debut album in January, and it's hard. "Now I'm nauseous and I don't even like you," vocalist Julie Dawson sings on "Sickly Sweet," one of the razor-sharp lyrical knives tossed from this record's many addictive hooks. "You're careless like a father, cruel like a mother," goes another. "MADRA" is grungy, but not in the performative way that many referential bands have gone as of late. It's more like if beabadoobee came up in Seattle in 1993. Anthemic and gritty with killer one-liners. It's probably my most-listened to new record this year. 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE - hella Compilation rap records are hit or miss. Earlier this year, Lyrical Lemonade released one with features by a boatload of rappers I love, but it wasn't for me. Though "hella," from music company 88rising's new hip-hop collective 1999 WRITE THE FUTURE, is outstanding. It's a 24-song heater with little time for breath. There are appearances by genre legends like Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross and Ghostface Killah. There's even a shoegaze track, "rUN tHE FaDE," a stoner anthem that sounds like dynamite in a Tabasco bottle. Its music video has an appearance from comedian Tim Robinson of "I Think You Should Leave," and if you're familiar with that show, trust me when I say that this project hits harder than a new shirt from Dan's Flashes. Tapir! - The Pilgrim, Their God and The King Of My Decrepit Mountain The first three records on this list are pretty heavy, either thematically or instrumentally. But then there's Tapir!, a British alt-folk band that has seriously caught my attention this year. Their new three-part concept album "The Pilgrim, Their God and The King Of My Decrepit Mountain" is a musical kite. To ride its wave is to flutter in a cerulean sky, blissfully unaware of any brooding clouds in the distance. With their conceptual whimsy, Tapir! sounds like a modern Harry Nilsson. And this record is like if Edvard Grieg had a Bandcamp account and a love for Fleet Foxes when he wrote "In The Hall of the Mountain King." Seriously, it's that good. Runnner - starsdust Runnner is a songwriter I've come to really love over the years for his lush acoustic guitar tones and dense lyricism. But that's all out the window, because his newest full-length, "starsdust," is a mostly-electronic instrumental record. Still, it's somehow just as provocative as his earlier, wordier work. Each song is numbered "one" through "twelve," and the whole thing plays cohesively like the soundtrack for a never-ending video game menu. Though not for a video game with flashy cutscenes and neon loot packages. It's more of an open-world dystopia where your avatar has to drudge through another planet's dense, black forest to find little reasons to keep going. The final boss is your own self-doubt, and you only beat him by befriending him. Hold on, I'm sending a few ideas to Ubisoft. Danielle Durack - Escape Artist I'll always have a soft spot for Danielle Durack. I was a college kid in Durack's hometown of Phoenix when she released 2021's "No Place," a catchy indie album that soundtracked many of my walks to and from campus. She was the subject of the first music feature I ever wrote, and in our interview then, she told me she wanted to take her music career to the moon. Three years later, Durack is closer. She's got an astronaut helmet on the "Escape Artist" cover, and the outro is even an aptly titled "Moon Song." While Durack is now based in Nashville, this still sounds like a piece of Phoenix to me. Her songwriting savvy hasn't waned, layered with an honesty and self-deprecating wit that puts her somewhere spiritually between Lucy Dacus and Sara Bareilles. On This Daytrotter: Wild Pink on Feb. 21, 2018 There is a series of fantastic shows coming to the Quad-Cities in the next few months. I'm already looking ahead to March 24, when dreamy indie acts Wild Pink and Sun June play the Raccoon Motel with opener Sinai Vessel. Wild Pink was here for a Daytrotter session six years ago. On it, you can hear four songs from their slowcore self-titled debut album, and it absolutely rocks. This is the early frontrunner for my favorite local concert of 2024, and I just wanted to warn you now. Concert of The Week: Glixen & she's green at Raccoon Motel Speaking of killer tripleheaders at the Motel, shoegaze bands Glixen, she's green and Blist Her are playing there next Wednesday, Feb. 28. (I know, that's pushing the boundaries of the "Of The Week" part of this segment, but I'm excited, okay?) Tickets are $12, the doors open at 6 p.m. and the show is presented by local goth collective Void Church. On a personal note, this concert is going to feel like a grand finale to my cross-country 2023. The script is perfect: Glixen is from Phoenix, she's green is from Minneapolis and Blist Her is from right here in Iowa, three places I've called home in the last 12 months. Five men have been arrested on multiple charges stemming from a car theft in October in which they allegedly threw a woman from her vehicle and drove away in it. Two vehicles the men left behind allegedly contained marijuana and guns. The robbery occurred at 5:44 a.m. on Oct. 17, 2023, at the Pilot gasoline station located at 2975 N. Plainview Road, Walcott, according to the arrest affidavits filed by Scott County Sheriffs Deputy Alex Gries. Yovani Alfanzo-Rivas, 32; Anyel Jose Marron Segora, 19; Carlos Albento, 26; Carlos Gomez, 19; and Jordan Medina, 26; each is charged in Scott County District Court with one count each of first-degree theft and second-degree robbery. Each of those charges is a Class C felony under Iowa law that carry a prison sentence of 10 years. Each of the men also are charged with possession with the intent to deliver marijuana and violating Iowas drug tax stamp law. Those charges are Class D felonies that carry a prison sentence of five years. The men are each charged with being a person ineligible to carry weapons, a serious misdemeanor that carries a jail sentence of up to one year. Gomez also is charged with giving false information to police. The men are listed as homeless out of Chicago in Scott County District Court documents. According to the Gries arrest affidavits, at 5:44 a.m. on Oct. 17, the men stole a womans Nissan Versa by dragging her out of the vehicle. The woman was in the vehicle at the Pilot gasoline station in Walcott. A search warrant was conducted on two other vehicles that the men had been in. Those vehicles were impounded by the Iowa State Patrol. According to Gries affidavit, he seized from these vehicles 2 pounds of marijuana that was packaged in separate bags. He also seized a Ruger .380-caliber pistol, and a Sundance Industries .25-caliber pistol. The men were taken into custody in Nebraska and returned to the Scott County Jail on Tuesday. During a first appearance on the charges Wednesday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Stephen Wing scheduled a preliminary hearing in each of the men's cases for March 1. Each of the men was being held Wednesday night in the Scott County Jail on a cash-only bond of $50,000. Eldridge's new police chief, Andrew Lellig, was sworn in at Monday night's city council meeting. Lellig had been interim police chief since his predecessor, Joe Sisler, was forced to retire at the end of the year after controversy erupted over how he handled accusations that one of his officers was sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. In 2022, Eldridge Police Officer Andrew DeNoyer was sentenced to 10 years in prison on three counts of sexual abuse. The parents of the girl then filed a lawsuit against Sisler and the City of Eldridge in August 2023 alleging Sisler knew of the sexual abuse allegations against DeNoyer and failed to investigate or report his officer for months. Sisler has said that he followed the law. That lawsuit is still ongoing. Lellig was chosen from six candidates for the chief position. The city council approved his selection unanimously earlier this month, agreeing to hire Lellig at a salary of $99,665 effective Feb. 1. Before his interim role, Lellig served as deputy chief. He's worked for the Eldridge Police Department since 2016, after a stint at the Scott County Sheriff's Office and then as part of the Secret Service working at the White House during the Obama administration. Lellig said new policies and procedures have been put in place at the Eldridge Police Department to require that "any complaint that comes in is investigated fully." "There have been new policies and procedures put in place to prevent what happened in that situation," Lellig said. "Those are already in place, those are already working." Asked for an example, Lellig said: "New requirements for investigations, making it a standard....Any complaint that comes in is investigated fully." Lellig said his immediate goals for the police department is to continue keeping it well staffed. The department is authorized at 11 officers, but has eight right now, Lellig said. He also said he hopes to rebuild connections in the community. "I would love to do a kind of community planning session," Lellig said. "And with that, we would write members of the community, business owners, and community organizations for a morning presentation with that to show different aspects of the police department...And the most important aspect of that is to listen to the people and show that we value their opinion." Photos: Mississippi Athletic Conference wrestlers at North Scott High School Jan. 27 G20 foreign ministers open a two-day meeting Wednesday in Brazil, with the outlook bleak for progress on a thorny agenda of conflicts and crises, from the Gaza and Ukraine wars to growing polarization. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are both expected in Rio de Janeiro for the first high-level G20 meeting of the year though not China's Wang Yi. In a world torn by conflicts and divisions, Brazil, which took over the rotating G20 presidency from India in December 2023, has voiced hopes for what President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva calls "the forum with the greatest capacity to positively influence the international agenda." But Lula's bid to make the G20 a space for finding common ground suffered Sunday when the veteran leftist ignited a diplomatic firestorm by accusing Israel of "genocide," comparing its military campaign in the Gaza Strip to the Holocaust. The comments drew outrage in Israel, which declared him "persona non grata," and could overshadow any bid to de-escalate the conflict via the G20. "If Lula imagined he was going to propose peace resolutions on Israel or Ukraine, that just got swept off the table," international relations specialist Igor Lucena told AFP. More than four months after the Gaza war started with Hamas fighters' unprecedented Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which has vowed to wipe out the Islamist group in retaliation, there is little sign of progress toward peace. A new U.N. Security Council resolution on a ceasefire was vetoed Tuesday by the United States, which said the text would endanger ongoing negotiations, including on the release of Hamas-held hostages. The outlook is similarly downbeat on Russia's war in Ukraine, which also has G20 members divided. Despite a push from Western countries for the group to condemn President Vladimir Putin's invasion, the G20's last summit, held in New Delhi in September 2023, ended with a watered-down statement that denounced the use of force but did not explicitly name Russia, which maintains friendly ties with fellow members like India and Brazil. Underlining the G20 stalemate, the G7 group of top economies Ukrainian allies Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States will hold its own virtual meeting on the war Saturday, the second anniversary of Russia's invasion. 'Putting out fires' Held at a marina on the Rio waterfront, the G20 meeting will open with a session on "addressing international tensions." The ministers will discuss global governance reform Thursday a favorite issue for Brazil, which wants a greater voice for the global south at institutions like the U.N., International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. "The number and gravity of conflicts has returned to the level of the Cold War. That brings new urgency to the issue," said Brazil's top diplomat for G20 political negotiations, Mauricio Lyrio. "We need to adapt the international system to prevent new conflicts," he told journalists Tuesday. "Now, we're just putting out fires." Brazil also wants to use its G20 presidency to push the fights against poverty and climate change. There will also be space for bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the gathering though a Blinken-Lavrov encounter looks unlikely, given the exploding tension over Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death in prison Friday. Blinken and Lavrov last met in person at a G20 gathering in India in March 2023. Election-year havoc Founded in 1999, the Group of 20 brings together most of the world's biggest economies. Originally an economic forum, it has grown increasingly involved in international politics. But the prospects for major advances via the group are dim in a year when elections will be held in some 50 countries, including key G20 members such as the United States and Russia, said Lucena. "Reaching big agreements will be difficult," he said. "It's not a favorable environment for resolving conflicts. On the contrary." A Brazilian government source said that after recent G20 struggles for consensus, the hosts axed the requirement that every meeting produce a joint statement with the exception of the annual leaders' summit, scheduled for November in Rio. (AFP) DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Despite a month of U.S.-led airstrikes, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they seriously damaged a ship in a crucial strait and apparently downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. The continued assaults by the Houthis on shipping through the crucial Red Sea corridor the Bab el-Mandeb Strait against the backdrop of Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip underscore the challenges in trying to stop the guerrilla-style attacks they have used to hold onto Yemen's capital and much of the war-ravaged country's north since 2014. The campaign has boosted the rebels' standing in the Arab world, despite their human rights abuses in a yearslong stalemated war with several of America's allies in the region. Analysts warn that the longer the Houthis' attacks go on, the greater the risk that disruptions to international shipping will begin to weigh on the global economy. On Monday, both the Houthis and Western officials acknowledged one of the most serious attacks on shipping launched by the rebels. The Houthis targeted the Belize-flagged bulk carrier Rubymar with two anti-ship ballistic missiles, and one struck the vessel, the U.S. military's Central Command said. The Rubymar, which reported problems with its propulsion in November, apparently became inoperable, forcing her crew to abandon the vessel. Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree claimed on Monday night that the Rubymar sank. However, satellite images from Planet Labs PBC analyzed by The Associated Press showed the Rubymar still afloat at 2 p.m. local time Tuesday just north of the Bab el-Mandeb. A large oil slick trailed the vessel. The Rubymar attack marked one of a few direct, serious hits by the Houthi rebels on shipping. In late January, another direct hit set a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker ablaze for hours. Meanwhile, the Houthis early Tuesday released footage of what they described as a surface-to-air missile bringing down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone off the coast of Hodeida, a Yemeni port city they hold on the Red Sea. The footage included a video of men dragging pieces of debris from the water onto a beach. Images of the debris, which included writing in English and what seemed to be electrical equipment, appeared to correspond to known pieces of the Reaper, usually used in attack missions and surveillance flights. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told journalists in a briefing the Houthis shot down the drone. In November, the Pentagon acknowledged the loss of an MQ-9, also shot down by the rebels over the Red Sea. Since the Houthis seized the countrys north and its capital of Sanaa in 2014, the U.S. military has lost at least four drones to shootdowns by the rebels in 2017, 2019 and this year. Meanwhile, the Houthis claimed an attack on the Sea Champion, a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier bound for Aden, Yemen, carrying grain from Argentina. Central Command said the carrier has delivered humanitarian aid to Yemen 11 times in the past five years as the country remains on the edge of famine amid the war there. The rebels separately claimed an attack on the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Navis Fortuna, a ship that had been broadcasting its destination as Italy with an all Chinese crew to avoid being targeted. Private security firm Ambrey reported that the vessel sustained minor damage in a drone attack. The U.S. shot down 10 bomb-carrying Houthi drones, as well as a cruise missile heading toward the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Laboon over the last day, Central Command said Tuesday. The U.S. military also conducted strikes targeting a Houthi surface-to-air missile launcher and a drone prior to its launch. The Houthis acknowledged the drone attacks and claimed other assaults not immediately acknowledged by the West. Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and surrounding waters over Israels war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. 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. Those vessels have included at least one with cargo for Iran, the Houthis' main benefactor. The European Union has launched its own campaign to protect shipping, with member France saying on Tuesday that it shot down two Houthi drones overnight in the Red Sea. So far, no U.S. sailor or pilot has been wounded by the Houthis since America launched its airstrikes targeting the rebels in January. However, the U.S. continues to lose drones worth tens of millions of dollars and fire million-dollar cruise missiles to counter the Houthis, who are using far cheaper weapons that experts believe largely have been supplied by Iran. Based on U.S. military statements, American and allied forces have destroyed at least 73 missiles of different types before they were launched, as well as 17 drones, 13 bomb-laden drone boats and one underwater explosive drone over their monthlong campaign, according to an AP tally. Those figures don't include the initial Jan. 11 joint U.S.-U.K. strikes that began the campaign. The American military also has shot down dozens of missiles and drones already airborne since November. How Houthi attacks crimp global trade Why are Houthis attacking ships? Why is the Red Sea important? How are Houthi attacks affecting trade? What does it mean for oil prices? How is the world responding? Black Hills State University students and staff took home 16 Gold and Silver ADDYs at the 2024 American Advertising Federation Black Hills American Advertising Awards Feb. 16. Gold ADDYs in the student category were awarded to BHSU students Ashley Beguin, Hope Schumacker and Noah Westergaard. BHSU student Silver ADDY recipients included Beguin, Rylan Bruns, Katelyn Lueth, Bridget Schneller, Schumacker, Westergaard and Sienna Williams. In addition to her ADDYs, Beguin won Judges Choice Awards for her still photography entry entitled Simply Orange and for her book design entry 2023 Contemporary Issues Catalog. Best in Show for the student category was awarded to Westergaard for his logo design Sports Branding Campaign. Westergaard, along with Bruns and Schumacker, are currently student workers for the BHSU Office of Marketing & Communications. In the Professional Awards category, the BHSU Office of Marketing & Communications received a Silver Addy for their 2023 Spring Alumni Magazine issue. Our students once again proudly represented BHSU at the AAF Black Hills Awards Gala. Their achievements are a result of hard work and talent combined with the outstanding education and opportunities provided by the dedicated BHSU faculty and staff, said Becca Walters, senior director of marketing and communications at BHSU. The BHSU marketing and communications team felt honored to have our work showcased and awarded as well," she added. "AAF Black Hills is always in awe of the talent of our local students who consistently deliver professional-grade work in our competition. These budding creatives are the future of our industry, and showcasing their work is a huge part of the American Advertising Awards," said Allie Geier-Barlow, chair of the AAF Black Hills American Advertising Awards. "We're optimistic that student winners from our local American Advertising Awards will be recognized in the next round of the competition." All Gold ADDY winners will be entered into the American Advertising Awards District 8 competition which will include entries from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. In August 2015, a 14-year-old girl did something thousands of Native American children have done over the past 133 years. She left her home and walked through the doors of a federally funded boarding school called the Pierre Indian Learning Center. Learn about this project Read more about why we pursued this three-part series on student welfare within the Bureau of Indian Education by clicking on the headline. But this girl never walked out. She is one of at least four students who have died as a result of injuries sustained at federally funded and, in some cases, operated Bureau of Indian Education schools over the past two decades, according to previous news stories and lawsuits. But the total number of such deaths is not known. The bureau declined to provide a complete count, and the BIEs FOIA office claimed to have no record that was responsive to a public records request for a count of deaths on BIE property. The girl who died at Pierre Indian Learning Center had long struggled with her emotional well-being and had been involuntarily committed twice to South Dakota hospitals because of suicidal ideation in 2014, the year before she started at the boarding school, according to a lawsuit filed by her guardian and later settled by the U.S. government. Two months after she moved in, that lawsuit says, she died by suicide in the boarding schools Big Girls dorm. The death of this young teen, who is identified only by her initials in the lawsuit, was a tragedy in its own right, one that Superintendent Veronica Morley and the school community are still mourning, she said. This was somebodys child, Morley said. This was a member of our family. And its not something that was taken lightly. And we do everything in our power to ensure it does not happen again. Morley said no other deaths have occurred in her 29-year-career at the tribally operated school in South Dakotas capital city. But the death did not represent the first or the last time a students safety has been compromised in the Bureau of Indian Education. Thousands of reports of abuse at BIE schools A Lee Enterprises Public Service Team investigation found that thousands of reports designated for abuse, neglect, life-threatening incidents and death have been filed at the 55 Bureau of Indian Education-operated schools since 2008, though not all incidents occurred on campus. And a string of government investigations, a smattering of lawsuits and previous reporting provide further insight into long-held concerns about student safety in the BIEs 55 bureau-operated and 128 tribally controlled elementary schools, secondary schools and residential facilities, which serve some 45,000 Native American students. Nationwide, the BIE system serves a small fraction of Native American students, about 90% of whom attend traditional public schools, according to previous reporting. Investigators from the Government Accountability Office and the Department of the Interiors Office of Inspector General have identified issues that may have put BIE student health and safety at risk. In 2018, for example, the GAO found the BIE left students vulnerable by not ensuring that required background checks for individuals who work with children at Indian education facilities are complete. In 2022, the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that the BIEs overall staff vacancy rate is about 33 percent and that BIEs School Operations Division, which provides vital administrative support to schools, has a vacancy rate now of about 45 percent. We believe that high staff vacancy rates significantly inhibit BIEs capacity to support and oversee schools. In 2014, a group formed by the secretaries of the U.S. Department of Education and Department of the Interior, where the BIE is housed, produced a report that described the bureau as the legacy of the Indian boarding schools established in the 19th century and argued the BIE system remained a stain on our nations history. During a 2019 congressional hearing, Deb Haaland, the secretary of the Interior Department and the first Native American to serve as a Cabinet secretary, offered a harsh critique of the bureau she now oversees. It is no secret that the BIE schools have historically under-performed, although it is the nations most expensive educational system that is failing 183 schools for Native American children in 23 states, she said, according to a transcript of the hearing. This is a department that continues to fail our children so substantially that a 2015 Politico article stated, BIE students performed worse than every major urban district in the country except Detroit. This is a failure of the federal government and completely unacceptable. During her time leading the Interior Department, Haaland has pushed for an investigation into and a reckoning with the history of the federal Native American boarding school system during the 19th and 20th centuries. The results have included publication in 2022 of the first volume of a report that laid bare the appalling treatment of students in those schools as well as a series of visits from Haaland herself to hear from survivors of that system and from their descendants. Mandy Smoker Broaddus, a member of the National Advisory Council on Indian Education who emphasized she was not speaking in her capacity as a board member, said Haalands work to deal with the harmful history of federal schools for Native children is important, but that the conditions at federal Indian schools still in operation should be probed further. Everybody primarily focuses on the historical context, said Smoker Broaddus, who is a member of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes from the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Those issues are really important, but we have problems going on in schools right now that we should talk about. Its difficult to know the exact scope and nature of those problems in a school system that spans 23 states and includes a mix of day schools, boarding schools and dormitories operated by an opaque federal agency and a large number of tribes. But allegations and reports of abuse, neglect and even death at BIE schools have emerged over the past two decades. Sexual misconduct, exploitation by school leaders alleged In April 2022, for example, the BIE responded to a request from tribal officials on the Wind River Indian Reservation, which is home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, to investigate Frank No Runner. He had been the superintendent of the then tribally operated, K-12 St. Stephens Indian School in St. Stephens, Wyoming, since 2015. The result was a lengthy report that documented a wide range of allegations against No Runner and other school officials, including claims that: No Runner asked a student to have sex with him for money. No Runner solicited underage girls for nude photographs and sex. A student was dancing topless and being encouraged by the adults in the room during a party at No Runners house and that this was so traumatic for (a witness) that it contributed to her deteriorated emotional state, and she was considering suicide. No Runner solicited nude photos and sex from students and former students. No Runner offered to pay students to attend parties at his house. No Runner smoked marijuana with some boys outside the (school) gym. The BIEs investigation concluded that No Runner and other school officials engaged in a wide range of misconduct, including sexual misconduct that may have harmed Indian children, sexual harassment, bullying of parents and staff, and consuming alcohol and marijuana on school grounds. The investigators believe the preponderance of evidence and testimony support that No Runner more likely than not had or attempted to have sexual relationships with students of SSIS, the report said. The report led to the dismissal of No Runner, who did not offer comment when reached as part of the reporting of this story. It also led to the dismissal of two principals, other school officials and the entire St. Stephens school board. As a result, the Wind River Intertribal Council relinquished tribal control of the school. The FBI also investigated the allegations at St. Stephens but did not pursue charges, said Vikki Migoya, public affairs officer for the FBI Denver Field Office. "After a comprehensive investigation, and in consultation with federal partners, the FBI determined that any misconduct in this case did not rise to the level of a federal crime, Migoya wrote in an email response. Multiple BIE schools allegedly compromised student welfare St. Stephens is not the only BIE school where student welfare has allegedly been compromised. In 2017, students at the bureau-operated Havasupai Elementary School successfully sued the BIE over a range of alleged failures, including claims of student mistreatment at the K-8 school, which is located on the floor of the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona. Among those allegations were claims that an 11-year-old student at the school was prosecuted in federal court for pulling the cord out of the back of a computer monitor and that a 10-year-old was forcibly restrained in a classroom by a teacher who sat and laid down on the student while he cried out and yelled, I cant breathe. Get off of me, youre hurting me. The lawsuit, which the BIE and Interior Department settled, also alleges that the BIEs failure to maintain adequate staffing levels has contributed to student harm. The lack of adequate staffing also leads to dangerous conditions at the school when children are routinely left unsupervised, the suit reads. Recently, two children accessed a supply cabinet at the school during the school day and drank hand sanitizer. One child was airlifted out of the canyon for medical treatment, and the other was handcuffed and taken to the local medical clinic." Similarly, the suit, which uses pseudonyms for students, continues, Plaintiff Taylor P. was recently pushed against a wall and choked by another student while her kindergarten teacher was not watching. In her first semester at the school, Taylor P. was also sexually assaulted and penetrated by another student on the playground. In neither situation was Taylor P.s mother, Billie P., informed by the school of what had happened. In 2019, the U.S. House of Representatives held a hearing on the Health and Safety Risks of Native Children at Boarding Schools in response to an expansive reporting project from Oregon Public Broadcasting that examined student deaths, academic problems, allegations that administrators bullied staff, questionable hiring practices and a culture of secrecy at the BIE-operated Chemawa Indian School. During that hearing, a former Chemawa teacher named Joy ORenick told committee members that (s)tudents who experience harm while under Chemawas care are treated with indifference. ORenick said that a special education student reported to her that she had been raped on campus but that administrators had not provided her counseling or medical treatment, had not separated her from her alleged attacker, and stated that they were not giving credibility to her report because she was special education and probably confused. The principal and counselor at the time quickly put her and her alleged attacker on planes back to their respective reservations rather than investigating or supporting the students, denying the young lady nearly a year of education because she had reported being assaulted, and ensuring that the young man faced no accountability if he had raped her. This incident, ORenick said, was one of countless examples of student harm at Chemawa. Celeste Karzon, another former Chemawa teacher, told House members her concern for the well-being and safety of students at Chemawa went unaddressed, including instances where students were filming fights in the dorms and posting them on YouTube without consequence. In an emailed statement, Amanda Ward, Chemawas superintendent, declined to speak to specific incidents but wrote that the school is dedicated to supporting the overall well-being of students and offers therapy to students. She also said that all reported incidents at Chemawa are investigated, and if the claims are substantiated then appropriate action is taken. Continued deaths at schools for Native students Within the past two decades, two students have died at Chemawa: a 16-year-old who died of alcohol poisoning in 2003, and an 18-year-old who died of heart failure in 2014. A year later and 1,400 miles away, another BIE student died: the 14-year-old girl who died by suicide at the Pierre Indian Learning Center in 2015. A lawsuit filed by the girls guardian alleged that PILC and its employees breached their duty to provide adequate supervision of (the girl) to prevent her from engaging in self-harming behavior, to document and report her suicidal comments, to follow its admissions policies and to provide her with adequate mental health care. The lawsuit, which the federal government ultimately settled for nearly $35,000 without admitting fault, also noted that her mental-health challenges began before she arrived on campus. The suit says she was involuntarily committed twice to South Dakota hospitals because of suicidal ideation in 2014, the year before she moved into the boarding school. Because of this history and incomplete documentation in her enrollment application, the lawsuit contended, the girl never should have been admitted to a school that wasnt equipped to address her issues. It is PILC policy that a history of suicidal ideation or attempt will preclude a child from admission to PILC, the lawsuit states. PILC does not accept students who have histories of suicidal behavior because it is not a treatment center and does not have the resources to care for or provide adequate supervision for such children. PILC settlement and complaint Read the full settlement and complaint court documents involving PILC and Little Elk. The suit alleged that PILC administrators and staff didnt provide adequate supervision for the girl and acted with carelessness and negligence during her brief stay. Soon after she moved into the staff-supervised dormitory, the lawsuit says, she was found crying and told staff that another student had hit her. Days later, she was visibly upset after she was further bullied by a fellow student. When staff found her engaging in fighting behavior with another student, she told counselors that she fought because she was frustrated. She was also upset when, a month after she moved in, a fellow dorm resident and friend attempted suicide. Not all of her discussions about suicide occurred with staff, the lawsuit says. She also talked to other students about suicide and made self-harm attempts that were not discovered by PILC supervisory staff. That suit says protocol at Pierre Indian Learning Center includes a requirement that school staff immediately fill out a Critical Incident Report, provide it to the school superintendent and school dorm supervisor, and contact local law enforcement. But staff at the tribally run Pierre Indian Learning Center did not follow this protocol after the girl who died discussed suicide multiple times or even after the suicide attempt that led to her death, according to the lawsuit. The suit also says that a staff member who worked with the 14-year-old who died admitted that she does not always pass on her self-harm risk assessment documents to supervisors, and she does not always document her risk assessment of the students risk of self-harm despite PILC policies. Long-troubled school in North Dakota Three years later, a student at another tribally operated BIE school died: a 13-year-old who committed suicide at Circle of Nations, a BIE boarding school in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Soon after, a local television station, KVLY, reported that several former employees of the school told the station they tried to do something about lack of protection for kids at what some have called a long-troubled school. Some of these employees reportedly claimed they lost their jobs (because they were) trying to get more supervision for the children. A lawsuit filed on behalf of a student who was allegedly raped at Circle of Nations in 2017, one year before the 13-year-olds death, made similar accusations, claiming the BIE was negligent in failing to ensure students were adequately supervised at the school and failing to provide a safe environment for students. Circle of Nations complaint and dismissal Read the full complaint and dismissal court filings involving Circle of Nations. The plaintiff in the case also charged that the BIE knew, or should have known, of the many other incidents occurring upon the Circle of Nations campus, and of which the perpetrators were a part, that involved similar, sexual behavior and reports indicating the perpetrators have accosted other students in the past. A judge ultimately dismissed the suit over a lack of jurisdiction. In May 2018, during a hearing on safety and security at BIE-funded and -operated schools, North Dakotas then Sen. Heidi Heitkamp brought up the death at Circle of Nations as well as reports of child abuse at the school. Heitkamp noted, though, that she and others had a difficult time even figuring out who had jurisdiction over that school and who could come in and do an investigation. Heitkamp indicated the North Dakota Office of the Attorney General ultimately pursued an investigation just because no one else was stepping up, but efforts to reach Heitkamp and the attorney generals office for information about the outcome of that investigation were unsuccessful. Tanner Rabbithead, CEO of Circle of Nations School, said such allegations were unfounded, that the school has experienced no other student deaths in the years since, and that he knew of no allegations of child abuse on campus. He claimed that the teachers who made accusations to the local TV station were disgruntled. As for the lawsuit, Rabbithead said it was an illegitimate claim filed by the students guardian, whom Rabbithead claims was looking to make a quick dollar on the schools account. Rabbithead said the school works hard to ensure students are safe: Thats our main priority: the care, welfare, safety and security of the student. A planned mixed-use development in eastern Henrico County is looking to combine affordable housing and retail with an affordable childcare facility. The project by the Maggie Walker Community Land Trust calls for up to 45 units of affordable housing, a 15,000-square-foot Sprout School location and 10,000 square feet of commercial space. The design is anticipated to create an affordable community in which residents can have a significant portion of their needs met within a small area. The nonprofits leading the project are betting on this combination of uses helping people have achievable costs of living. The cost of housing has been on the rise in the Richmond region over the past decade, even pricing working class families out of some areas. Virginia has also been grappling with a childcare crisis rendering the essential service for many families as unaffordable. The project is planned at North Airport Drive and East Washington Street in Highland Springs. The trust is a nonprofit real estate developer specializing in low and moderate-income housing. The Sprout School RVA is an early education program that offers financial aid. Half of the nearly 7-acre property will be retained by the trust for around 21 affordable townhomes. CEO Erica Sims said townhomes will sell for around $190,000 in current dollars. The development wont finish for at least another two years. The second half of that acreage will be owned and operated by YWCA Richmond which runs the Sprout School and Childrens Home Society of Virginia, which runs adoption and foster care services, including helping children aging out of foster care. The YWCAs main focus is helping women escape from domestic violence. Housing affordability was becoming a bigger and bigger constraint in (YWCAs) work, Sims said. When they have an emergency and a family is fleeing a violent situation, they can put them into an apartment. Because rents are getting so expensive, they were losing units and it was becoming a bigger and bigger problem. These two organizations doing social services were kind of forced into doing real estate development. And ,thats the type of partnership we really want because we specialize in real estate development and affordable home ownership. The remaining residential units will be owned under the partnership between YWCA and Childrens Homes Society of Virginia. Some of those units are expected to be available for emergency housing while the rest could be targeted toward Sprout School employees and other low to moderate-income residents. The commercial space is planned to be limited to daycare, educational, office, recreational and civic uses. The project was approved the county Planning Commission last week and requires Board of Supervisors approval. Henrico County has pitched in by selling the land to the trust for $1. Sims said there is a possibility that the county continues to help move the project forward through help with grant dollars. The project was largely planned in eastern Henrico because the land was available but the spot is also helpful in a part of the county that has need for reasonable housing prices. Its definitely a place where the county is losing a lot of affordability but this particular site is amazing, Sims said. Maggie Walker Community Land Trust has also partnered with two nonprofits in Chesterfield to propose an agrihood, an affordable housing community that pairs itself with farming. From the Archives: Jackson Ward in the 1970s and 80s The Richmond School Board approved a $534.5 million budget for fiscal year 2025 at its Tuesday evening meeting a $1.8 million increase from the superintendents initial proposed budget. Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras last month proposed a budget that includes 3% raises for nearly all of its employees. The revised budget includes a 22% raise for some school-based office associates, a 20% raise for maintenance staff, a 10% raise for transportation staff, and an 8% raise for another tier of school-based office associates. Kamras initial proposal had a $36.2 million expenditure increase, while the revised budget approved by the board Tuesday has a $38 million expenditure increase. When Kamras put together his budget proposal, he budgeted for $3 million more than what RPS would receive under Gov. Glenn Youngkins proposal. Budget proposals that the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee released Sunday would provide RPS with $10 million more or $14 million more, respectively. We encourage everyone to continue to advocate both at the city level and at the state level to ensure that we get every last one of those 38 million additional dollars, if not more, Kamras said Tuesday evening. The approved RPS budget continues funding the districts attendance efforts, increases the districts allocation for school maintenance, and includes more training and mental health professionals in light of last summers fatal shooting following the Huguenot High School graduation. The board approved the revised budget on a 6-3 vote, with dissenting votes from 2nd District representative Mariah White, 4th District representative Jonathan Young and 6th District representative Shonda Harris-Muhammed. Now that the School Board has approved a budget, Mayor Levar Stoney will incorporate it into his budget proposal to the City Council, which considers the mayors proposal and makes adjustments. The City Council adopts a budget in May. If the citys adopted budget has more or less RPS funding than was anticipated when the School Board approves its budget this month, Kamras will propose changes for the boards consideration. The School Board will adopt a final budget in June. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War If my heart stopped beating right now, ask yourself: Would you be able to save me? That was the question posed by Cayden Shipley, 7, of Chesapeake, who on Tuesday spoke at a news conference to promote Virginia Senate Bill 181: legislation that would require Virginias public elementary and secondary schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs) to address cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Cayden was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which is a congenital heart defect characterized by a severely underdeveloped left ventricle, he said. He underwent his first open-heart surgery when he was only four days old and has had two additional operations since. Kids like me are at a higher risk of suffering from sudden cardiac arrest, Cayden said. (But) all kids deserve the opportunity for a full, fun, heart-healthy life. When seconds matter The news conference, which coincided with Virginias annual CPR Awareness Day, was hosted by Sen. Aaron Rouse, D-Virginia Beach; Sen. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico; and representatives of the American Heart Association. Rouse in January introduced SB 181, which unanimously passed the Virginia Senate on Feb. 5 and was referred to the Virginia House Committee on Education. If passed by the House, the bill would direct Virginia elementary and public schools to have a plan in place to address cardiac emergencies and provide critical care when seconds matter, Rouse said. Rouse said each schools CERP would establish clear and specific steps for responding to cardiac arrest, which in turn would reduce deaths from cardiac arrests among Virginias 1.2 million enrolled public school students and 400,000 faculty and staff members. Currently, Virginia schools are required to have accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs) as well as CPR-certified nurses and other faculty members, said Nichole Wescott, Virginia government relations director for the American Heart Association. But existing state law does not address the need to have school- and personnel-specific guidelines in place for cardiac emergencies, Wescott said. Cardiac events can be sudden and induce panic, Wescott said, so having a detailed procedure with decisive steps and clearly defined roles can help streamline the response and ultimately save lives. An actual emergency plan (outlines) exactly what to do (and) whos doing what, Wescott said, which allows school staff to get the CPR and aid to individuals as quickly as possible. That rapid reaction is vital, Wescott said, because for every minute a person experiencing cardiac arrest goes without CPR, his or her chances of survival decrease between 7 and 10%. So knowing immediately what person is assigned what role who is calling 911, who is locating an AED, who is performing CPR can be the difference between life and death. SB 181 also would establish a grant to assist schools in acquiring necessary equipment and developing and implementing CERPs, and would require review, training and practice on the part of school staff. Its one thing to have a plan on the shelf, Wescott said, but if no one ever practices that plan, its efficacy is drastically weakened. It totally upends your life The measure is now before the House of Delegates for consideration. Rouse said he is hopeful the bill will clear the House and be signed into law. This is not a partisan issue, Rouse said. Its a bipartisan issue. Both sides of the aisle understand its about saving our youth and providing values and skills that can save lives. So Im optimistic. For the Shipley family, the passage of SB 181 would provide relief in the midst of trying circumstances. Caydens father, Taylor Shipley, said the family found out about Caydens condition 20 weeks into the pregnancy. (Cayden) was in the hospital for 45 days after his first surgery, 10 days for his second and 12 days for his third, Taylor said. It totally upends your life, Shipley said. Normal kid stuff isnt normal for him. Im always, in the back of my mind, kind of worried about him. (So) knowing that the school will be trained, that there will be a team thats prepared for a (cardiac) event definitely provides comfort. As for Cayden? He tackles his condition with a resolve that is far bigger than his 7-year-old frame. It doesnt hurt at all, Cayden said. It feels like a normal heart. How 3 factors impact CPR survival rates 3 factors that impact CPR survival rates Bystander versus EMS CPR Whether the cardiac arrest was witnessed by anyone Location where CPR was performed Richmond Councilmember Andreas Addison formally launched his campaign for Richmond mayor Wednesday morning with a platform that touts good governance and more reliable services. The announcement comes months into the race with several candidates vying for the position. Addison has represented the 1st District, which includes the Museum District and the West End, since 2017. In his announcement, he said his experience within local government will help him make future decisions if elected. Before serving on the council, Addison worked for the city developing internal programs to modernize the city. We have so much potential to solve critical issues, especially in City Hall, but its going to take strong, focused leadership, Addison said. We need a leader committed to doing the hard work, implementing progressive policies to move us forward, governing for the sustainable growth of Richmond, focusing on meeting the basic needs of residents and preventing displacement. While serving on council, Addison has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including updating the citys zoning policies to be more inclusive, as well as moving the city closer to more equitable and accessible transit. Addison was the one leading the charge against mandatory parking minimums and pushed for Safe Streets for All, a federal initiative that brings dollars to equitable transit. Additionally, he helped create the resident-led participatory budgeting commission, which launched this year and will see residents in each district weigh in on specific capital projects in their neighborhoods. Currently, Addison owns and operates a gym in Scotts Addition and is an adjunct professor at the University of Virginia teaching students about social enterprise, which is an approach to business that seeks to maximize social impact as well as profits. As I tell my students, we must see people beyond the numbers on paper, Addison said. Honestly, the decisions the mayor should be making need to be transformational to improve access to employment, services and other needs for low-income households. Addison is not the only councilmember to join the race. This election cycle sees two other former council representatives throwing their hat in the ring. This includes former 3rd District council representative Chris Hilbert as well as former 9th District representative Michelle Mosby. Community activists Maurice Neblett and Garrett Sawyer have also launched campaigns. To date, Mosby has raised the most in campaign funds with $104,913. Sawyer trails with $100,302. Mosby, who announced her campaign earlier this year, began collecting funds early last year. Addison has not yet reported his campaign donations in this race; however, in the 2020 council race, he tallied roughly $71,000 and secured the position with nearly half the votes, according to the Virginia Department of Elections. Following his announcement, Addison said he plans to host a launch event and discuss his policy priorities in the next couple of weeks. As mayor, I look forward to working with community leaders, City Council, city staff, business owners, advocates and everyday Richmonders to ensure our city reaches its full potential and no one is left behind, Addison said. From the Archives: Old Richmond buildings The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday let stand the revised admissions policy at the prestigious Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Fairfax County, a change meant to boost Black and Latino enrollment. The revised policy resulted in fewer Asian Americans being admitted, which prompted a parent group to file lawsuit against the school district, alleging that the new admissions policy discriminates against those students. The court refused to hear a challenge to the revised policy, and two conservative Justices, Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Clarence Thomas, issued a strongly worded dissent. The parent group, Coalition for TJ, claimed that changes in the schools admissions requirements violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution and alleged that the changes were made to discriminate against Asian American applicants. The race-neutral competitive process historically produced classes with a high percentage of Asian American students. The first class admitted under the new policy saw an increase in Black and Latino enrollment, while the percentage of Asian American students dropped from 73% to about 54%. The school scrapped its difficult admissions test and now gives weight toward students who are economically disadvantaged or still learning English. The process does not take race into account, the school said. Last year, a divided 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel in Richmond sided with the Fairfax school and held that the plaintiffs' claim failed because the changes did not reduce the percentage of Asian American admittees below the percentage of Asian American students in the schools in the jurisdictions served by the magnet school. "What the Fourth Circuit majority held, in essence, is that intentional racial discrimination is constitutional so long as it is not too severe," Alito and Thomas wrote in their dissent. "This reasoning is indefensible, and it cries out for correction." Gov. Glenn Youngkin in 2022 appointed Suparna Dutta, co-founder of the Coalition for TJ, to the state Board of Education. But last year, Senate Democrats blocked Duttas appointment on a party-line vote. Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, who is also of South Asian descent, raised concerns about Duttas views on the role of racism and slavery in American history. Dutta had pushed efforts to move forward on versions of the states K-12 history standards, which were developed under the Youngkin administration and which critics have characterized as an undermining of the histories of people of color. Dutta said Tuesday that the outcome at the Supreme Court is "incredibly disheartening." "Since June 2020, we've poured our hearts and souls into this fight, and it's profoundly disappointing to see the justices end our legal battle... While this may mark the end of our case, the battle continues against discrimination. We remain steadfast in our resolve," Dutta said. "Our commitment to this cause remains unwavering, and we will continue to stand by your side for equality and the American Dream." In Richmond last year, the city School Board voted to revise admissions processes for three of Richmonds selective schools, including the prestigious Maggie L. Walker Governors School. The first classes admitted under the new policies will join the schools this fall. For 20 years, white students have been accepted into Maggie Walker at a rate nearly four times higher than Black students. Richmond Public Schools leaders said they wanted to change that, and set out to create recommendations that would make the districts selective schools better reflect the percentage of students in RPS who are categorized as economically disadvantaged, which is about 70%. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War More than 3,000 abortion opponents gathered at Virginias Capitol on Wednesday for the annual Virginia March For Life where Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears was among featured speakers and Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Attorney General Jason Miyares walked with the crowd. Resilience was a theme as many speakers stressed that they would not give up trying to change peoples minds on abortion and to elect lawmakers who would champion anti-abortion legislation. The Division of Capitol Police estimated the crowd at 3,000 to 3,500 people. Abortion is currently legal in Virginia for any reason until 26 weeks of gestation, and three physicians must attest that continuing a pregnancy further would threaten the life of the pregnant person or irremediably impair their mental health. Many neighboring states have earlier benchmarks or near-total bans on the procedure. Ahead of Novembers legislative elections, Youngkin had championed a proposal to bar most abortions after 15 weeks with exceptions for rape, incest or threat to life of the pregnant person. There were no exceptions for severe fetal anomalies. Meanwhile, Democrats united in supporting abortion access, were able to hold their majority in the Senate and flip the House of Delegates back to their control. I think that the governor had rational ideas towards abortion, said Sarah, a Virginia March For Life attendee Wednesday who declined to share her last name. And I think that its unbelievable that there is no middle ground. Once a teenage mother, Sarah said that her daughter has since grown up to earn a law degree. Carl Jackson, who lives in the Colonial Beach area, said that his first-born was not planned, but that hes been proud to watch her grow up and start a family of her own. At one point during the event, he stood atop stairs and played a trumpet as the marchers proceeded. Earle-Sears told the crowd at the rally before the march: It is life in the womb ... so I say to you, let us do the right thing. While speaking at the event Del. Nick Freitas, R-Culpeper, stressed that he would keep urging his fellow lawmakers to oppose abortions. He also shared that his own life was not the result of a planned pregnancy. He said that his mother instilled in him a responsibility to protect life and urged others to have conversations with their families. What do your children, what do your grandchildren believe about this issue? That is ultimately what is going to decide what is believed in that building over there, Freitas said as he pointed to the state Capitol. We have a battle legislatively. We have a bigger battle culturally. Democrat says voters sent a message In an interview Wednesday after the march, Del. Candi Mundon King, D-Prince William, said The voters of Virginia sent a message in the November elections in which Democrats gained control of the House of Delegates and maintained control of the state Senate. Virginia is now the least restrictive Southern state for abortion access and providers have noted an uptick in out-of-state patients in the year and a half since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, removing federal abortion protections and sending the issue back to the states. Your health care and your ability to live or survive or traumatic birth should not be dictated based on where you live, Mundon King said. It is actually sad that women have to come to Virginia. During last years elections, Youngkin said Virginians could come together around his proposal and his political action committee invested $1.4 million in advertisements on the matter. During this years session Youngkin has not pushed the proposal for a 15-week limit on abortions. The few proposals for abortion restrictions in the session have been defeated in the Democratic-controlled legislature. They included one from Del. Tim Griffin, R-Bedford, would have prohibited state funding from going to clinics or hospitals. It also sought to repeal portions of state code that allow for cases of rape, incest and when a doctor certifies that a fetus will have a totally incapacitating abnormality. At Wednesdays event, Family Foundation president Victoria Cobb appeared to reference rape and fetal anomalies when she said that abortion ends when women believe that a child entering the world even as the result of heartbreaking circumstances is the beautiful phoenix rising from the ashes not a burden. She added that abortion ends when the tough in utero diagnosis is no longer treated like a plague that needs to be taken out. The Family Foundation opposes abortion and lobbies the legislature on that and various other issues. It has also been involved in organizing the Virginia March For Life events. Next year Democrats plan to begin a multi-year effort to enshrine access into the states constitution. Democrats currently are advancing proposals that would ban the use of search warrants to obtain menstrual health data and to protect from extradition someone who comes to Virginia for an abortion from a state where it is illegal. Opponents urge Youngkin to veto the bills. The General Assembly is working on their process now, and I will review every bill, Youngkin told members of the press Wednesday before joining the march. Thats my job, and I will give everyone a thorough review. A video posted to X Wednesday reportedly showed a counter protester accosting student marchers and knocking down some signs. BREAKING: Protestor with trans flag assaults some of our @StudentsforLife students marching at the Virginia March for Life in Richmond. Will he be held accountable? pic.twitter.com/m1ffG11hel Kristan Hawkins (@KristanHawkins) February 21, 2024 Capitol police said there were no arrests stemming from the march. Today in history: Feb. 21 1885: Washington Monument 1964: U.S. Wheat 1965: Malcolm X 1972: Richard M. Nixon 1975: Watergate 1992: Kristi Yamaguchi 1995: Steve Fossett 2017: Milo Yiannopoulos 2018: Rev. Billy Graham 2019: Oakland Teacher Strike 2020: Taliban 2021: Novak Djokovic A nonprofit that aims to help homeless people and those with disabilities live independently is planning to add 83 more apartments in Richmonds Highland Park area to its supportive housing portfolio. Virginia Supportive Housing is proposing a four-story, L-shaped building on vacant land at 2900 Rady St. The tract is part of a zoning district that includes Richmond Behavioral Health Authoritys north campus and a special needs school. Permanent supportive housing is the evidence-based solution for ending chronic homelessness, 94% of our supportive housing residents remain permanently housed, said Allison Bogdanovic, Virginia Supportive House executive director. We estimate that people experiencing chronic homelessness have a life expectancy that is more than 10 years shorter than those who are housed, she said. Supportive housing is a key service in Virginias efforts to improve its behavioral health system. The idea is to provide a place to live with a range of services from check-ins with case managers to visits from nurses to help with shopping or getting to and from programs or work that help people live on their own. Virginia Supportive Housings efforts begin with building trust, Bogdanovic said. Its services include developing basic living skills everything from budgeting to cooking. The agency helps with things they need for their apartment, from cleaning supplies to groceries, and with connecting them to medical care. People come together for events and activities, from haircuts and food giveaways to bingo nights and birthday parties, she said. The ultimate goal of services is to help those we serve to regain stability and independence, she said. In addition to the 83 units in the building, Virginia Supportive Housing plans an outdoor amenity area, an indoor community and no more than 30 parking spaces. The citys planning department staff said the plan takes a major step toward Richmonds goal of adding 300 supportive housing units. While it will be taller than the 2- or 3-story institutional buildings across Rady Street, it will have a similar density of housing units to a recently approved 52-unit building on the parcel next door, at 2906 5th Avenue. In the citys Richmond 300 Master Plan, Rady Street itself is designated as a major residential street that is, one that would carry high volumes of vehicle traffic, as well as bicycles and pedestrians The project is nearly as big as Virginia Supportive Housings Cool Lane Commons development, a $23 million renovation of a vacant assisted living facility on the citys border with Henrico County. There, the agency is offering 86 units of affordable housing with on-site supportive services, to serve formerly homeless and low-income individuals earning 50% or less of the area median income. Virginia Supportive Housing opened the states first permanent supportive housing community in Richmonds Carver neighborhood in 1992, converting the former Home Brewing property into what is now an 80-unit home for homeless and low-income adults earning 50% or less of the Area Median Income. In 1996, the agency opened its second supportive residence in the Richmond area, renovating a Budget Motel in South Richmond into a 39-unit home for formerly homeless single adults. It opened its 21-unit Studios at South Richmond for formerly homeless adults with disabilities in 2011. In addition, the agency has converted two other properties into a total of 14 units for people with traumatic brain injuries. Supportive services there include help gaining access to basic human needs, re-learning skills and gaining employment. Residents pay 30% of their individual monthly income in rent. The remaining rent is subsidized. Its 14-unit James River Apartments for individuals with disabilities offers affordable and fully accessible apartments. In the late-1990s, the agency renovated apartment buildings in Richmonds South Barton Heights, Highland Park and Cary Street neighborhoods to provide affordable housing and services for 16 families with children transitioning from homelessness. Virginia Supportive Housing also provides housing and services in Hampton Roads and Charlottesville. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War Israeli strikes across Gaza killed at least 67 Palestinians overnight and into Wednesday, including in areas where civilians have been told to seek refuge. The Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir al-Balah says it received 44 bodies after multiple strikes in central Gaza. Associated Press reporters saw the bodies arriving in ambulances and private vehicles. Also Wednesday, the aid group Doctors Without Borders said that two people were killed when a shelter housing staff in the Gaza Strip was struck during an Israeli operation in an area where Palestinians have been told to seek shelter. While details are still emerging, ambulance crews have now reached the site, where at least two family members of our colleagues have been killed and six people wounded. We are horrified by what has taken place," the group said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. (AP) Burned body found inside Cancun home Cancun, Q.R. Cancun firemen located the burned body of a homes occupant Tuesday in relation to the report of a fire. Residents in SM 512 called emergency services for help after seeing flames inside the home. Firemen arrived and spent around 30 minutes extinguishing the fire, at which time they located the burned body of a man. The body of the unidentified man was found alongside a mattress inside the home. Paramedics were at the scene who confirmed the mans death. An investigation into the fire is underway. A new book offers solutions to the legal, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers to enhanced creativity, prosperity, and everyday freedom. But how realistic are they given our everyday inertia and self-seeking? I once took a public sector job where I had oversight (though not formal supervisory responsibilities) over several personnel who had more years experience than I had. One such employee was approaching retirement. Not herself a manager, she nevertheless thought of herself as the leader of her fellow employees. She would take credit for others ideas, give directives I would later reverse, and was entirely impervious, even hostile, to professional feedback. Everyone despised her. As far as our office went, the woman was dead weight. And though my managers (and hers) knew she was useless, and despite more than two years of my petitioning leadership to remove her, the woman kept her job. It would be, my bosses told me, a lot of work to fire this woman, and shed be gone soon anyway. Though they never said as much, my bosses feared hershe presumably knew where a few bodies were buried and might have sued for wrongful termination. Later, after I left that job, I heard she had retired with full benefits. I imagine Im not the only person with a professional story like this, defined by aggravating inertia. Powerlessness has become a defining fixture of modern society, writes Philip K. Howard in his new book, Everyday Freedom: Designing the Framework for a Flourishing Society. Americans at all levels of responsibility feel powerless to do what they think is needed. Whether we are talking about teachers, medical professionals, government officials, or businessmen, all have been restrained by legal constraints, real or feared. Theres a reason for that, Howard argues, and it has to do with a significant legal (and subsequently cultural) transformation that happened in the United States beginning with the 1960s rights revolution. According to this narrative, Americas legal framework was rebuilt to defeat the social evils of racism and sexism and promote equality through the exercise of three new legal mechanisms intended to shield people from those in authority. The first of these were prescriptive rulebooks, which dictate a single correct way to do things, ensuring safety and fairness and reducing the risk of human fallibility. Brookings scholar Herbert Kaufman championed this approach: Only precise, specific guidelines can assure common treatment of like cases. The second was the creation of formal procedures to force people, especially government officials, to provide evidence for the correctness of their decisions. The legal process movement, promoted by law professors such as Henry Hart and Albert Sachs, urged an agreeable procedure for getting acceptable answers. This is the reason why, for example, procuring permits for infrastructure modernization or disciplining public employees in the 21st century has become so onerous, often requiring years to navigate byzantine bureaucracy. The third was a new litmus test of individual rights, which empowered individuals to file lawsuits for anything portrayed as an adverse life event. Ordinary accidents transformed into calamities that provoked outrage and demanded recompense, encouraged by a system prejudiced in favor of tort litigation. According to a recent survey, the vast majority of physicians reported practicing defensive medicine, or [altering] clinical behavior because of the threat of malpractice liability, a phenomenon that wastes about $200 billion every year. Howard notes that one casualty of these developments is the harm to the common gooda nation obsessively on guard against the violation of rights fosters a more distrustful society in which citizens view each other as adversaries. That certainly seems in keeping with Tocquevilles assessment in Democracy in America: It is especially dangerous to enslave men in the minor details of life. For my own part, I should be inclined to think freedom less necessary in great things than in little ones, if it were possible to be secure of the one without possessing the other. Subjection in minor affairs breaks out every day and is felt by the whole community indiscriminately. It does not drive men to resistance, but it crosses them at every turn, till they are led to surrender the exercise of their own will. Thus their spirit is gradually broken and their character enervated. As Tocqueville elsewhere warned, another result of this new legal paradigm is the creation of new anxieties and risks. Some manifestations of this are employers fearful of giving honest feedback, or institutions diverting massive chunks of their budgets to address legal compliance. Thus we have a system that is patently confusing and disempowering. Howard cites a study of Illinois nursing home regulations that found that inspectors typically only enforced about 10% of rules. Alternatively, regulations intended to help the environment do the opposite, because they prolong bottlenecks and double the cost of projects. And more than 99% of federal employees are rated fully successful. (As a manager friend of mine in federal service explains, rather than discipline bad employees, supervisors play pass the trash.) Much academic research confirms the problems here. Sociological research on management and business overwhelmingly recognizes that human initiative and creativity, typically by those with deep expertise and the freedom to experiment, rather than strict adherence to bureaucratic processes, are the best means of achieving success. Intuition, not regulatory frameworks, is the origin of the best professional decisions. And studies have shown, ironically, that trying too hard to purge bias from workforces or classrooms paradoxically reaffirms or causes more bias. In response to our enervating regulatory system, Howard offers a legal structure with three key components: (1) laws should define boundaries that protect against unreasonable acts and encourage an open field of freedom; (2) those legal boundaries should be marked by broad principles, rather than detailed regulations that dictate correct choices; and (3) law should ensure clear lines of authority to interpret and enforce those legal principles. In Howards favor is that the U.S. Constitution consists of principles rather than precise rules. More broadly, he urges a re-empowerment of Americans in their everyday choices, what he calls everyday freedom to act in a manner they assess to be appropriate, constrained only by the boundaries of law and by norms set by the employer or other institution. These principles are all well and good and could perhaps, depending on how they are articulated, enjoy bipartisanship support. Yet practically speaking, what can be done? Howard cites as examples of his approach in action Operation Warp Speed, the multibillion-dollar research project that discovered COVID vaccines in six months, and Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiros 2023 decision to suspend regulations that would prevent or hinder the reopening of a section of I-95 that had collapsed, enabling the highway to process traffic again after just 12 days instead of months. Judges, officials, school principals, supervisors, and others with institutional authority must assert and enforce values of whats right and reasonable, writes Howard. But whose values? In answer to that question, Howard offers an appeal to moderate, widely accepted norms, which is perhaps better than current practice but also seems too nebulous a criterion to effectuate the dramatic changes the author believes necessary. Howard also recommends a reinvigoration of mutual trust, the lubricant of social interaction, in the face of a society in which many Americans no longer believe in America. Yet in this respect, our increasing societal diversity is an impediment to increasing mutual trust, for the more diverse a society is, and the less that society has a shared understanding of a common history and what constitutes the good lifewhat we might call its mythos and telosthe harder it is to maintain that social trust, and the more isolated and partisan we become, as Tim Carney has well cataloged in Alienated America. To wit, our culture no longer even agrees as to how to define male and female. Howard encourages Americans to limit or abandon social media and its toxic tendency to reinforce loneliness and hyper-partisanship. (A great idea, but easier said than done, given social medias remarkably lucrative powers.) He recommends the reinforcement of mediating institutions between citizens and the government, adding that wherever practical, government should delegate services and provide resources to credible local groups, and provide block grants conditioned on performance. This includes religious organizations, such as churches and synagogues, since the benefits of local ownership outweigh the potential threat posed by religious communities imposing their beliefs on some citizens. (Though also a great idea, this also seems implausible, given the unprecedented rise of the religious unaffiliated.) Howard believes the only practical mechanism for designing new frameworks is for Congress to delegate the design of structures, area by area, to independent recodification commissions. Yet Congress seems far too weak and self-serving to do this, evidenced by the GOPs recent unwillingness to negotiate on the border crisis because its an election year. In sum, Howard has done an excellent job diagnosing the problem and offering a paradigmatic solution to our maddening distemper. Yet many of his suggestions, no matter how excellent, seem improbable given our current political climate. (Perhaps one exception is his recommendation, borrowed from the Danes, to adopt a flexicurity program in which terminated employees collect up to two years of income support as a means to address the problem of retaining bad employees out of fear.) The impetus for big change must be overwhelming public demand, writes Howard. Frustratingly, and certainly no fault of Howards, it seems we are still far from reaching that critical threshold. After weighing donations to this years Local Office on Aging Soup for Seniors food drive, the organization reports that the community donated a grand total of 49,271 pounds of shelf-stable food for over 2,800 seniors in need. That surpassed the goal by more than 4,000 pounds, which allowed LOA to serve 132 more seniors this year, according to a news release from the organization. Thank you to everyone who held their own canned food drives to donate to Soup for Seniors including the local churches, schools, and businesses and all who donated food, time, or dollars to help, said Ron Boyd, LOA President & CEO. The successful Soup for Seniors would not have been possible without the dozens of volunteers who inspected and packed thousands of cans, according to the release. Volunteers packed and delivered 2,882 bags full of nutritious soups and other foods to seniors in need. Many are Meals on Wheels recipients; Diners Club participants; older adults receiving LOAs transportation, case management, and in-home care services; as well as residents of low-income, independent senior housing, according to the release. LOA partners include AARP Virginia, which supplies a large contingent of volunteers each year, media sponsor WFJX 910 AM & 104.3 FM, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Sams Club and Security Scale. The Roanoke County Sheriffs Office was also picked up loads of soup from county schools, and making deliveries. Drop-off site locations included: First Bank, Vistar Eye Center, Black Dog Salvage, APRIA Healthcare, Evergreen Burial Park, Mountain View Cemetery, Salem Public Library, South County Library, and the Vinton Library. Though Soup for Seniors is over for this year, the need continues throughout the year, according to the release. Items can be dropped off Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at LOAs main office, located at 4932 Frontage Road NW in Roanoke. LOA staff members are happy to help unload donations, and donors can reach them when they arrive, at (540) 345-0451, according to the release. The Montgomery County School Board voted Tuesday to approve its first-ever collective bargaining agreement with the county Education Association. The agreement, which is retroactive to Jan. 1 and lasts through 2025, does not contain anything about pay. Instead, it sets rules for staff schedules, evaluations and for other matters. The new agreement involves teachers and certain other school system employees. Among the provisions of the agreement are 7-hour workdays for teachers with up to three hours of meetings per month outside the regular work hours though the agreement allows additional meeting hours in emergencies. A caveat in the agreement is that it might not be fully implemented if the school board receives insufficient appropriation or funding from county supervisors or other agencies. If school board members determine that there is not enough money to pay for the agreements provisions, there may additional negotiation to decide whats next, the agreement said. It was unclear what the specific costs would be based on Tuesday nights discussion. When the Montgomery County board decided last year to begin bargaining with the education association, it was thought to be one of the first in Southwest Virginia to do so. Collective bargaining was permitted by legislation that the General Assembly approved in 2020. Tuesdays vote came with no discussion of the agreement. School board member Dana Partin cast the boards lone vote against it. CHRISTIANSBURG Montgomery County schools will ask the county for increased funding of about $6.8 million for the coming fiscal year. At a meeting Tuesday, school board members voted 6-1 to approve a $147.5 million budget proposal for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The county is being asked to fund about 44% of the overall operating budget for the schools, up about 1% from the countys share of the present budget. Superintendent Bernard Bragen is scheduled to present the schools proposal to county supervisors on Monday. Supervisors plan to work on the overall county budget, including money for the schools, for more than a month after that before setting property tax rates and adopting a spending plan. The supervisors budget schedule includes a March 4 presentation of a proposed county budget, continued discussion at work sessions and meetings, an April 4 public hearing, and scheduled votes to approve tax rates and the budget on April 15. The usual practice in Montgomery County, as in many Virginia localities, has been for supervisors to give the schools something less than all the school board asks for initiallyand then the school board to revise its budget proposal. The proposal that the school board approved Tuesday is for operating expenses. Capital costs, such as school construction or replacement of major building systems, are considered separately. Board member Derek Rountree said that in order to make long-term financial plans for the county, supervisors need to know what the school board wants to do with replacing or renovating schools. Rountree asked board members to move a staff report on facilities needs to the boards next meeting instead of waiting to discuss it at a later board retreat. Rountrees motion to direct staff to give a report at the next meeting failed, however, with only board member Penny Franklin supporting him. The schools operating budget proposal asks the county to increase its contribution from $58.4 million to $65.2 million. The proposed schools budget also projects a $5.5 million increase in state funding to $76.5 million and $307,521 more in federal money to about $5 million. The overall 9.3% increase in the schools plan is driven by an almost $8 million jump in instruction costs. There are also increases of almost $2.4 million for operations and maintenance; $1.1. million for administration, attendance and health; and about $1.1 million for transportation. Most staff would see a 5% pay increase under the proposal, with certain groups of workers seeing larger raises. Teachers of homebound students, for example, would go from $25.13 per hour to $40 per hour as part time positions, a jump that staff said was meant to attract more applicants. We cannot find people to do that job, Bragen said. The proposal also moves all employees to at least $15 per hour. The pay for groundskeeping, maintenance and food service positions, some of whom were making less than that, has been a recurring subject for board discussion. Franklin, who took part in Tuesdays meeting by a remote link, voted against the budget proposal after expressing concerns about not doing more to raise the salaries of the lowest-paid employees, and about the budget process as a whole. In a related decision Tuesday, The Montgomery County School Board voted Tuesday to approve its first-ever collective bargaining agreement with the Montgomery County Education Association. The agreement, which is retroactive to Jan. 1 and lasts through 2025, does not contain anything about pay. Instead, it sets rules for staff schedules, evaluations and for other matters. The county educations membership also has to vote to approve the agreement, and is scheduled to decide later this week. Among the provisions of the agreement are 7-hour workdays for teachers with up to three hours of meetings per month outside the regular work hours though the agreement allows additional meeting hours in emergencies. A caveat in the agreement is that it might not be fully implemented if the school board receives insufficient appropriation or funding from county supervisors or other agencies. If school board members determine that there is not enough money to pay for the agreements provisions, there may additional negotiation to decide whats next, the agreement said. There were no specifics discussed about what the costs would be on Tuesday. When the Montgomery County board decided last year to begin bargaining with the education association, it was thought to be one of the first in Southwest Virginia to do so. Collective bargaining was permitted by legislation that the General Assembly approved in 2020. Tuesdays vote came with no discussion of the agreement. School board member Dana Partin cast the boards lone vote against the agreement. Also Tuesday, the school board approved a calendar for the 2024-25 school year that sets Aug. 13 as the first day of school, includes a Nov. 27-29 break for Thanksgiving, a Dec. 23-Jan. 1 winter break, a March 10-14 spring break, and an April 18-21 Spring Weekend. The last day of school is May 23 and graduation weekend is May 23-25. Board members Partin, Franklin and Jamie Bond voted against the calendar. Roanoke is confiscating more blighted properties, this time in view of traffic on Bullitt Avenue Southeast. Tuesday was the second time the city council used a 2022 state law to seize control of land on which a backlog of taxes and other fees are owed, said City Manager Bob Cowell. The first land claimed through the process was a small wooded site along Airport Road, north of Hershberger Road, where homeless people congregated. Its the same situation for the properties on Bullitt Avenue. These are the infamous three properties adjacent to the Citgo gas station in Southeast, Cowell said. That have been the site of citation after citation, cleanup after cleanup. The land was previously owned by Germilus Beneche, whose name also appears online with a New York address. The same name is listed as owner of a house on Bullitt Avenue beside the now-seized property, as well as a house at Eleventh Street Northwest. Like we did at the property near the airport, it allows us to maintain control of the property, Cowell said. Were no longer relying on someone who owns property from out of state to actually keep people off of the property. The three parcels the city seized total less than an acre, and are bisected by Bullitt and Jamison Avenues, according to city tax maps. Tents, litter and other signs of occupancy are often visible to drivers traveling between downtown and southeast. Its land that has been the topic of complaint from southeast residents, including some who voiced concerns to the council during a meeting earlier in February. Residents said illegal drug use, petty larceny and other crimes have gotten bad in southeast, and requested help from the city. Roanoke's council voted unanimously and without discussion to acquire the properties during a meeting Tuesday afternoon. In some ways it will become a management struggle, Cowell said. But at least we have the ability to manage it now, where we didnt when it was under private control. Also on Tuesday, the city council heard an annual report from Roanoke Regional Partnership Executive Director John Hull. Hull said 2023 was the biggest year yet for the economic development engine in its 40-year history helping to improve the region. The partnership is a four-part strategy: economic growth and innovation, placemaking and livability, talent strategies, and real estate strategies, Hull said. 2023 was in fact a record year for the partnership and the region, in a couple respects. Business projects announced last year total a record annual economic impact of $387 million, he said. Thats a higher total than 2022 and 2021 combined. Economic impact represents a projects contribution to the regions Gross Metropolitan Product, Hull said. Thats the value of all goods and services produced in the region. This encompasses the economic activity of a new company, its purchases from regional suppliers, as well as the spending of wages earned by employees. Last year saw the announcement of 1,439 jobs between seven companies investing $145 million into the region. Wells Fargo, Altec and New Belgium Brewing are among the businesses contributing to that statistic, Hull said. Mayor Sherman Lea said the numbers will further improve in years to come with more regional collaboration. Local governments, businesses, schools and other community entities fund and otherwise support the initiative. The Roanoke Times is listed as an investor on the Roanoke Regional Partnership website. Success is when you have Salem, Roanoke County and Roanoke City sign a document saying were going to do this together, Lea said. That wasnt an easy thing to do, but we did it. Also Tuesday, the city council passed a resolution memorializing former city councilman and public accountant Bill White, who died in January, at age 76, recognizing his community service to the Roanoke Valley. For people who are also looking to serve, Lea says during every meeting to contact the city clerks office and inquire about vacancies on various city boards and commissions. The council filled several such vacancies on Tuesday, and is seeking applicants for three upcoming school board terms, with a March 11 deadline to apply. We encourage citizens who want to serve to step forward, Lea said. We are looking for people who want to serve their city in some capacity. By Cate McCurry, PA The head of the States independent electoral commission said he is encouraged by how social media companies plan to tackle misinformation and disinformation ahead of the European elections. Art OLeary, chief executive of An Coimisiun Toghchain, told the Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Union Affairs that he is very happy with the level of engagement from major tech companies over its plans to remove damaging material during elections. In June, Ireland and other EU member countries will take to the polls to elect politicians to the European Parliament. Mr OLeary said he has held meetings with Meta, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Google and Technology Ireland about online issues, adding they have a good working relationship. Art OLeary, chief executive of An Coimisiun Toghchain, discussed the upcoming European elections, voting rights and combating disinformation. Photo: PA He told committee members that the electoral commission has been given safe channels to social media giants in order to deal with urgent matters. I am encouraged by the level of responsibility they have shown in relation to how theyre going to deal with that [misinformation and disinformation]. Theyre very, very conscious that their platforms are a place where quite serious damage can be done to democracy, Mr OLeary said. I have been pleased by the attitude and respect that they have shown to us and to the process as part of that conversation. These are not easy meetings for any of us because we have particular requirements but Im very, very happy with the level of engagement. I asked them what are their plans and arrangements for dealing with mis- and disinformation on the platform in an electoral context. And they have all laid out their procedures, their processes, how they engage and investigate allegations of mis and disinformation. I also asked for a safe, clean passage into the organisations quickly if we need speed to be able to do something. He also said he raised issues around algorithms. Interestingly, if there is something that theyre not clear about, if any issue was being investigated for mis- and disinformation, they can reset the algorithms to make sure that the post doesnt appear on peoples timelines or appears so far down as to be unreadable. There are many ways of dealing with this. Sinn Feins Ruairi O Murchu said there is a huge body of work to do to ensure the spread of misinformation and disinformation is contained. He added: Weve all entered into a world where anyone can post whatever has entered their head at 12 oclock at night after a couple of bottles of beer, possibly a couple of bottles of wine. But then you have you have other players that are not so benign, and they can be state-actors and they can be non-state-actors. They can be absolutely disorganised, just that theres a lot of them, so that is a particular problem. Mr OLeary said his biggest concern is around misinformation about the electoral process. Its the [allegations] that the electoral register is rigged, that your vote wont count because all those ballot boxes will be taken away and put in the boot of a car because they all know theyre voting for somebody, you must write on the ballot paper, etc, etc, he added. Thats the bit where we can make a real impact because that tends to be much more black and white. He urged the public to treat each day like it is April Fools Day and question who is passing on the information, how do you know if it is true and whether it is a trusted source. Mr OLeary said that while the body has been given extensive powers in the Electoral Reform Act 2022 in relation to misinformation and disinformation, the powers have not yet been commenced by the Minister for Housing, Darragh OBrien. He said that the Electoral Commission currently has no regulatory investigative or sanctioning powers in the area of misinformation and disinformation. What we do have is the obligation to inform citizens about the elections. And one is the electoral process information, Mr OLeary added. We are very conscious of the right to freedom of expression in this country and this is a constitutional right, but were also conscious that we have an obligation that our citizens and the electorate have the right to be informed properly as well. The way that misinformation/disinformation is leaked into the environment now is becoming increasingly sophisticated and increasingly complex. Art OLeary and Tim Carey, head of electoral operations, arrive at Leinster House. Photo: PA We have to be ready to be able to deal with that. So we are building an organisation right now from scratch, which is versatile, which is flexible, which is responsive and aware of developments in the area. There are currently 25 people working in the organisation, across three sections, including electoral operations, electoral integrity, and corporate services. Mr OLeary said their ambition is to double staff numbers by the end of the year. [We] have a huge role in relation to monitoring and correcting and labelling and responding to any myths or disinformation that we see, particularly around electoral process information. So, such and such a polling station has burnt down, if you write your name on a ballot paper you win a prize this kind of stuff is easily corrected. Media literacy is important here to explain to people about trusted sources of information, but we also have a big job to do and we also have the collaboration of a number of stakeholders in this country as well. Following the commissions campaign to boost electoral registration numbers, Mr OLeary said that 100,000 people have registered for the first time, while a further 100,000 people updated their details in the last five months. By Cillian Sherlock, PA The Government is setting itself up for failure on child homelessness, according to the leader of the Social Democrats. Holly Cairns accused the Government of engaging in constant spin rather than providing solutions to the housing crisis. It comes after the Childrens Rights Alliance issued its 2024 report card on the commitments of the programme for Government. In particular, Ms Cairns highlighted that the Government had been given a D- on the commitment to reduce the number of homeless families. Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns (Brian Lawless/PA) The Childrens Rights Alliance described this as a barely acceptable performance with little or no positive impact on children. Ms Cairns told the Dail on Tuesday that child homelessness was up 55 per cent in the lifetime of the Government, with nearly 4,000 children in emergency accommodation. She added that there had been a 20 per cent increase in family homelessness in the past year alone. Ms Cairns asked the Taoiseach: How, four years into this government, are we still seeing so many lives devastated by homelessness? How is solving this crisis not the primary focus of your Government? Mr Varadkar defended the Governments record on children by saying the Childrens Rights Alliance had not decreased its grade on any of the 16 categories year-on-year. This includes receiving the D- grade on family homelessness for two years in a row. During Leaders Questions, Mr Varadkar said the Government had received an improved grade in the four areas of childcare reform, free school books, special education and food poverty. He added: Overall, if you look at that objectively, its a story of progress and not a story of going backwards. Ms Cairns had also called for a rent freeze, a return for the no-fault eviction ban and a tax on vacant properties. However, Mr Varadkar said this would not address the main cause of homelessness in the country which he added was not primarily driven by evictions in the private rental sector. He said: The main cause of homelessness in Ireland unfortunately is family breakdown. And no matter whos in Government, its very hard to reduce the number of families that are breaking down at any given time. The Taoiseach said the Governments objective is to make sure that homelessness is rare, short-lived and not repeated. He added: But I absolutely appreciate that a few months can be a very long time in a childs life, and stick with them forever. And thats why we redoubled our efforts in particular to reduce family homelessness. Weve increased resources for prevention in particular, and thats really important. Ms Cairns said this was further spin and added: A large part of the problem in relation to housing is obviously that the targets have set us up for failure. So for a start theyre too low. And then youre failing to meet them and so theyre nowhere near what we need to meet demand. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. CALmatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how California's state Capitol works and why it matters. Dan Walters has been a journalist for nearly 60 years, spending all but a few of those years working for California newspapers. China sends new naval fleet for escort mission in Gulf of Aden Xinhua) 16:07, February 21, 2024 GUANGZHOU, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The 46th fleet of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy on Wednesday set sail from a military port in the coastal city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province to take over an escort mission from the 45th naval fleet in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. The 46th fleet includes the guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo, the missile frigate Xuchang, and the comprehensive replenishment vessel Honghu. It has over 700 officers and soldiers, including dozens of special forces personnel, and two helicopters onboard. In preparation for the mission, the fleet conducted meticulous analysis and made detailed plans. It also carried out targeted training for scenarios such as the rescue of hijacked commercial ships, the combating of terrorists and pirates, and the underway replenishment. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) FLORENCE, S.C. Francis Marion University will host the 12th annual South Carolina Chamber Music Festival at the FMU Performing Arts Centers Black Box Theatre Monday through Thursday. This years program will include four performances featuring internationally acclaimed artists: violinists Susanna Klein and Micah Gangwer, pianists Paolo Andre Gualdi and Chee-Hang See, cellist Eunice Koh, and the Balkan Quartet. The South Carolina Chamber Music Festival was created over a decade ago by FMU professor of music and piano virtuoso Paolo Andre Gualdi. This years festival includes a fantastic lineup of internationally-acclaimed artists, Gualdi says. It is so special and exciting to host musicians of such a high caliber at our university. The first performance will be held on Monday at 7:30 p.m. and features violinists Susanna Klein and Micah Gangwer as well as Gualdi in Dueling Violins. On Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., cellist Eunice Koh and pianist Chee-Hang See will perform Memos of Heritage: from Schumann to Rachmaninoff and Beyond. On Wednesday at 7 p.m., the Balkan Quartet will conduct a live recording of a new work by FMU music professor Brandon Goff. Admission is free but with limited seating. The festival will conclude on Thursday with a 7:30 p.m. recital in the Steven F. Gately Gallery by the Balkan Quartet titled Music of Serbia and the Balkans. Tickets are $10 for the general public and are available at the FMU PAC Ticket Office at 201 South Dargan Street, Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m., or by calling 843-661-4444. FMU students, faculty, and staff are admitted at no charge upon showing an FMU ID. For more information on the artists or individual performances, visit https://www.facebook.com/SCCMF/ It was one of the Civil Wars most technologically advanced weapons. The H.L. Hunley was a 40-foot submarine built out of iron and powered by a hand-cranked screw propeller. Hunley This 2015 photo of the Hunley shows restoration efforts in action. In 1995, the sub was found buried under silt in about 30 feet of water four The Confederate vessel secured its place in history on Feb. 17, 1864, when it set off 135 pounds of black powder along the hull of the USS Housatonic and became the first submarine to sink an enemy ship in battle. The Hunley and its eight crew members were lost to the waters off the coast of Sullivans Island that cold night, and five from the Housatonic were also killed. On the 160th anniversary of those events in 2024, the sub that transformed naval warfare is back at the forefront of technological innovation, but in a way that none of its 19th-century creators could have predicted. The H.L. Hunley has been the center of a multi-agency, conservation-and-education effort since it was raised from the depths in August 2000 and moved to the Warren Lasch Conservation Center in North Charleston. Warren Lasch Conservation Center Students Patricia Ploehn, left, and Melissa Allen use cutting-edge technology to study the H.L. Hunley submarine, which is housed at the the W Clemson University conservation scientists, archaeologists, conservators, and historic preservationists are playing a central role by leading the scientific work that is telling the story of the Hunley and its crew while conserving the vessel and its artifacts for posterity. Stephanie Crette, the centers director, said its affiliation with the University gives researchers unique access to state-of-the-art technology, including scanning-electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-radiography and 3D laser scanners. With their expertise and sophisticated equipment, the centers researchers have pioneered new conservation methods, including a subcritical technique to desalinate metal, especially iron. The cherry on top is that we are in Charleston, where history and preservation developed early on, so we have a good network of collaborators, Crette said. Our technologically advanced facilities and partnerships with multiple agencies are what make us unique. When a submarine sinks and is found For 131 years after the Housatonics sinking, the Hunleys whereabouts remained a mystery. Its location was verified in 1995, when a team led by author and explorer Clive Cussler found the sub buried under silt in about 30 feet of water four miles off Sullivans Island. The Hunley, secure at the center 24 years after its raising, is again submerged. But this time its in a tank of sodium hydroxide, a solution that pulls salt and chlorides out of the iron. While the solution does its job, researchers are branching out beyond the Hunley to apply their expertise to other artifacts. They include a 4,000-year-old Native American dugout canoe and the International African-American Museum collection. Those efforts and future collaborations will give Clemson researchers plenty to do long after their work with Hunley is completed. But researchers said their job with the sub is far from over. Michael Scafuri, senior archaeologist, likened the Clemson teams work to crime-scene investigation. We process a site or scene and collect evidence and try and see what it tells us, he said. What were trying to do is get as close as we can to understanding this event in the past. Were trying to understand what these people did and why they did it, their motivations and what came out of it. Johanna Rivera, senior conservator, has been working to protect the Hunleys artifacts. They include, for example, the silver suspenders, gold pocket watch and binoculars believed to have belonged to its captain, George E. Dixon. We are trying to bring things back to their state before the sinking event bringing objects back to life, if you will, Rivera said. That challenge to try and work with the material and to try to reverse time a little bit is the best part about my job. An aerial view of the H.L. Hunley submarine surrounded by framing and covered in rust while people in blue uniforms work on it. History and stories of people recovered Nicholas DeLong, a maritime archaeologist, has focused on personal artifacts, specifically the crews shoes, as well as clothing, textiles, and buttons. What they were wearing can tell us about the crew members themselves and how that plays into the bigger, overarching time period of the Civil War in Charleston, DeLong said. What they were wearing can also tell us a little bit about how they perceived their actions, what kind of unit they were, their cohesion. To understand cohesion in efforts to restore the Hunley, one need look no further than Clemsons partnership with Friends of the Hunley. The University and the nonprofit share the Warren Lasch Conservation Center. Friends of the Hunley runs an exhibit that tells the subs story and displays some of its restored artifacts. The nonprofit offers weekend tours that allow the public a glimpse of the sub in its tank. Collaborations with partners such as Clemson University are critical to illuminating an important piece of our nations rich naval heritage, said Kellen Butler, president and executive director of Friends of the Hunley. We look forward to continuing to work with Clemson to conserve the Hunley and its artifacts for future generations. Millions of farm animals endure long ocean voyages every year Residents of Cape Town woke up to a pungent, sewage-like smell engulfing their neighbourhoods on Monday morning. The source? A ship from Brazil carrying 19,000 cattle had anchored in the South African port city the night before, in order to reload on animal feed. After performing an assessment on board the Al Kuwait, staff from a leading animal welfare organisation, the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), said the cattle had been on board for two-and-a-half weeks and were living in a "build-up of faeces and ammonia [a gas released from urine]". Conditions were "awful" and the stench was "unimaginable", the NSPCA said in its statement. The ship has now left for Iraq but there will still be a funk in the air, campaign groups say. The Al Kuwait is heading to Iraq with 19,000 head of cattle on board The cattle are just a fraction of the millions of farm animals that endure lengthy journeys in order to be slaughtered and eaten in another country. Animal rights organisations have long complained that conditions on board these ships can be hazardous. They say that, in some cases, creatures have been trampled to death because of overcrowding, while dehydration, disease and hunger are also risks. Defenders of exporting livestock argue that the practice brings food security to importing nations and also financially benefits farming communities in countries that export. A handful of casualties have made headlines in recent years, like when more than 40 crew members and almost 6,000 cattle died after a ship sank of the Japanese coast, or when earlier this month a vessel carrying 16,000 sheep and cattle became stranded off the coast of Australia in extreme heat. Although disasters like these are horrific, "the really bad thing is just the day-to-day suffering" of exported livestock, Peter Stevenson from global animal welfare group Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) told the BBC. The 19,000 cattle that docked in South Africa are part of a much larger herd of Brazilian exports - in 2022 the South American country sent 150,000 live cattle abroad, CIWF estimates. Story continues Last year, a Brazilian judge outlawed live cattle exports from the country, citing poor welfare practices, but the ban is yet to be imposed. Australia and the European Union (EU) are also major exporters of livestock, with the latter selling around 4.5 million live farm animals to foreign countries, according to the South African chapter of animal welfare charity Four Paws. In Africa, Somalia and Sudan export the most. Sudan's authorities said the country exported more than 2.7 million cattle in 2023, despite a raging civil war, according to local media. But why do countries want to import live animals, rather than chilled or frozen meat? "There is a traditional belief in many countries... that fresh meat is in some way tastier, healthier than boxed, chilled or frozen meat," Mr Stevenson said. Some of these nations would struggle to rear animals from birth as they experience arid conditions that have only worsened with global warming. Australia's LiveCorp, an organisation serving Australia's livestock exporters, and AgForce, which represents Queensland's rural producers, argue that shipping animals contributes to food security in water-stressed regions such as the Middle East. Campaigners have long protested against the export of livestock across the world They also say the export of livestock benefits the Australian economy and farming communities, which can sell their animals for a higher price abroad than they can domestically. Nonetheless, Australia committed to "phasing out" live sheep exports in 2023. It has not set a deadline, however. Its neighbour New Zealand enforced a ban the same year. In Europe, Luxembourg has outlawed the trade and the UK is on its way to doing the same - a bill passed through its lower chamber of parliament, the House of Commons, last month. On Wednesday it will be considered by the upper chamber, the House of Lords. Four Paws notes that as well as hosting a ship full of livestock in its Cape Town port, South Africa exports farm animals itself. "There is insufficient regulation in place and raising animals in the country simply to be transported to be killed in another means that South Africa bears the harmful impacts associated with animal agriculture while the importing country does not," Fiona Miles, the charity's South Africa director, said. Not only did the cattle docked in Cape Town cause a nasty stink, they also reminded the world of the risks animals face on the long journeys to our plates. "Animals are sentient beings and feel pain and stress just like we do," Ms Miles said. You may also be interested in: Takeshi Ebisawa boasted to an undercover officer he had access to large quantities of nuclear materials that he sought to sell, providing photographs of materials alongside Geiger counters registering radiation (Philip FONG) US authorities said Wednesday they had charged a member of the Japanese yakuza criminal underworld with handling nuclear material sourced from Myanmar and seeking to sell it to fund an illicit arms deal. According to a superseding indictment unsealed in a Manhattan court, yakuza leader Takeshi Ebisawa and co-defendant Somphop Singhasiri had previously been charged in April 2022 with drug trafficking and firearms offenses, and both were remanded. "The defendant stands accused of conspiring to sell weapons grade nuclear material and lethal narcotics from Burma (Myanmar), and to purchase military weaponry on behalf of an armed insurgent group," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "It is chilling to imagine the consequences had these efforts succeeded and the Justice Department will hold accountable those who traffic in these materials and threaten US national security and international stability." The military weaponry to be part of the arms deal included surface-to-air missiles, the indictment alleges. Prosecutors allege that Ebisawa "brazenly" moved material containing uranium and weapons-grade plutonium, alongside drugs, from Myanmar. From 2020, Ebisawa boasted to an undercover officer he had access to large quantities of nuclear materials that he sought to sell, providing photographs of materials alongside Geiger counters registering radiation. During a sting operation including undercover agents, Thai authorities assisted US investigators to seize two powdery yellow substances which the defendant described as "yellowcake." "The (US) laboratory determined that the isotope composition of the plutonium found in the Nuclear Samples is weapons-grade, meaning that the plutonium, if produced in sufficient quantities, would be suitable for use in a nuclear weapon," the Justice Department said in its statement. Story continues One of Ebisawa's co-conspirators claimed they "had available more than 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) of Thorium-232 and more than 100 kilograms of uranium in the compound U3O8 -- referring to a compound of uranium commonly found in the uranium concentrate powder known as 'yellowcake'." The indictment claims Ebisawa had suggested using the proceeds of the sale of nuclear material to fund weapons purchases on behalf of an unnamed ethnic insurgent group in Myanmar. Ebisawa faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison for seeking to acquire surface-to-air missiles, and up to 20 years imprisonment for the trafficking of nuclear materials internationally. Prosecutors describe Ebisawa as a "leader of the Yakuza organized crime syndicate, a highly organized, transnational Japanese criminal network that operates around the world (and whose) criminal activities have included large-scale narcotics and weapons trafficking." No date was given for trial. gw/mlm DES MOINES Whether proposed legislation would strengthen protections for religious expression in Iowa or provide legal cover for discrimination was at the heart of an expansive and passionate debate Tuesday by state lawmakers at the Iowa Capitol. The proposed legislation, Senate File 2095, is called by supporters the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Under it, the government would have to prove there is a compelling state interest in pursuing legal action against individuals who claim their actions were an expression of religious freedom, and then that any legal remedy against them must be narrowly tailored. Supporters say the bill is needed because, in their view, U.S. Supreme Court rulings have eroded religious freedom protections that were passed into federal law in 1993. The federal law applies only to the federal government, but at least two dozen states have passed state-level versions of the legislation. The Iowa Senate debated the proposed legislation for nearly 90 minutes Tuesday before approving it, with all Republicans voting in favor and all Democrats voting against. This is a defensive measure, said Sen. Jeff Taylor, a Republican from Sioux Center. The courts have eaten away at religious freedom nationally, and that applies to our state as well. This is a defensive mechanism saying we need to prioritize the First Amendment. During debate, Democrats warned that such a law would give individuals legal cover to discriminate against others, especially minority religions and LGBTQ people, using religious freedom as a defense. Religious freedom is important. Those of us who are members of minority religious communities are particularly cognizant of that, said Sen. Janice Weiner, a Democrat from Iowa City who is Jewish. The rule of law is also important. We cannot create exemptions that encourage people to pick and choose which laws they will follow. Weiner introduced an amendment that would have inserted into the bill protections against discrimination as prescribed in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. That proposed amendment was defeated along party lines. The amendment would clarify that RFRA is intended to protect religious freedom, and at the same time avoid RFRA from being used to discriminate or to impose one persons or groups religious beliefs on others and thereby sidestep non-discrimination laws, Weiner said. It would restore the original intent of the RFRA laws, ensuring that religious freedom is used as a shield, not a sword. Sen. Jason Schultz, a Republican from Schleswig who managed the bill in the Senate, said the measure is needed because he believes in the original intent of the 1993 federal law which was passed by a Democrat-majority Congress and signed by Democratic President Bill Clinton. He said the Democratic Partys motivations have changed in the three decades since that law was passed. Schultz also pushed back at Democrats arguments that the legislation would lead to state-sanctioned discrimination, calling some of the arguments during debate drama soup. He also asserted there has never been a case of a similar religious freedom law being used to target LGBT and whatever else is accepted anymore. Its never been that. Its never been used for that, Schultz said. Were restoring the original intent of the First Amendment as interpreted by the Supreme Court. Versions of Iowa Republicans religious freedom bill have been introduced in the Senate annually since at least 2018. This is the first time the bill passed out of the chamber. With its passage out of the Senate, SF 2095 is eligible for consideration in the House. Public funding for church-managed programs Counties and townships would be allowed to devote money to religious organizations for public services under a bill that passed out of the House with bipartisan support. The bill, House File 2264, would allow church-managed organizations to receive public money if it is for a project that benefits the public and does not require any religious or secular services, educational programs, or participation requirements. Rep. Anne Osmundson, a Republican from Volga, said the bill would allow public support for projects like food pantries and homeless shelters. The bill passed Tuesday near-unanimously in the House, with a vote of 93-2. Democratic Reps. Elinor Levin of Iowa City and Megan Srinivas of Des Moines voted against the bill. This is a good bill. Its also going to be able to help individual nonprofits, said Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad, a Democrat from Des Moines. Its also going to be able to bring cities and nonprofits together to make sure that theyre serving the people. The bill now heads to the Iowa Senate, where it will need to pass and be signed by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds before becoming law. IDA GROVE, Iowa -- A Battle Creek, Iowa, man who was scheduled to stand trial Tuesday for attempted murder instead entered a plea to a lesser charge. Derek Mefferd, 44, entered an Alford plea to charges of willful injury causing bodily injury, interference with official acts while displaying a dangerous weapon or while armed with a firearm and reckless use of a firearm causing property damage. In an Alford plea, the defendant admits no guilt, but a judge enters a guilty plea into the record. District Judge Steven Andreasen accepted Mefferd's plea and scheduled sentencing for April 29 in Ida County District Court. Mefferd had been charged with attempted murder, a Class B felony that carries a 25-year prison sentence. Two of the charges he pleaded to are Class D felonies, both punishable with five-year prison sentences, and the third is an aggravated misdemeanor that carries a two-year sentence. According to court documents, Mefferd and Darin Fritz were fighting over a woman on March 20, 2022, in a home in the 600 block of Sixth Street in Battle Creek. The woman pulled Fritz off of Mefferd, who then produced a handgun and fired at least one shot into an upstairs wall. The fight resumed, and Mefferd shot Fritz once in the lower right leg. Mefferd fired at least four more times into the floor around Fritz and hit him in the head with the gun, court documents said. One of the rounds traveled through a window, went through a neighbor's carport and into the house, striking and destroying a television. Fritz was hospitalized in Sioux City for treatment of the gunshot wound. Prior to the scheduled trial, Mefferd's attorney had filed notice that he would claim self-defense, defense of another and necessity as defenses for the shooting. SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City man is facing a felony arson charge, after police say he intentionally set a garage on fire Wednesday at a mobile home park. Mario Alexander Arias, 31, was arrested at Evergreen Village, 5309 Highway 75 North, on charges of first-degree arson, reckless driving, crossing an unprotected fire hose and driving with a barred license. At roughly 10:30 a.m., Sioux City police received a report of a disturbance at the mobile home park, which is on the city's northeast side. "He is a resident of the house and it appears he set his own garage on fire," Sioux City Police Sgt. Jeremy McClure said of Arias, whom he didn't name, at the scene of the fire. McClure said a woman and two children were present at the time of the fire, but no one was injured. He said the only property that appears to have been damaged is the garage. The Sioux City Police Department said in a statement released Wednesday afternoon that firefighters encountered a detached garage that was fully engulfed in flames. As they began putting out the fire, the statement said Arias attempted to flee in a vehicle and drove over unprotected fire hoses. He was stopped by officers and apprehended. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sioux City Police Department at 712-279-6440 or Crime Stoppers at 712-258-8477. SIOUX CITY -- A Le Mars, Iowa, woman has been sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison for stealing guns. Tresa Fiedler, 24, pleaded guilty in September in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to conspiracy to possess stolen firearms and possession of stolen firearms. She was sentenced Tuesday to 87 months in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Fiedler and Ian Bigler broke into a home on Oct. 1, 2021, and stole 10 guns. Four days later, Fiedler bought a car for $5,500 cash in an attempt to leave town. Bigler later fled from police in a pickup truck while in possession of one of the stolen guns. On Oct. 15, 2021, Bigler, dressed in a bullet-proof vest and armed with a stolen handgun and a shortened shotgun, hid from law enforcement in a North Sioux City home and held another person against their will. Bigler, 34, of Sioux City, was sentenced in July to 15 years in prison. SAC CITY, Iowa -- The mother of a teenage boy who had a sexual relationship with an East Sac County High School teacher has sued the school district and former administrators for failing to adequately supervise the teacher and investigate rumors of her affair with the boy. The mother said in the lawsuit that the mishandling of the situation by former superintendent Jeffrey Kruse and principal Kevin Litterer, both of whom are no longer with the district, denied him of his constitutional equal protection rights, resulting in severe emotional distress for the boy and his mother. Former East Sac special education teacher Stefanie Kelsey had sex with the boy one to three times a week from December 2021 until March 4, 2022, when the boy, identified in the lawsuit as John Doe, was a freshman and age 14 and 15, according to the lawsuit. Kelsey, now 36, was arrested on March 11, 2022, and later pleaded guilty in Sac County District Court to single counts of third-degree sexual abuse and sexual exploitation by a school employee. She was sentenced in April to 10 years in prison and is currently housed at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women in Mitchellville. According to the lawsuit, filed earlier this month in Sac County District Court, Doe was often absent from his classes. When teachers called his home, his mother told them he was at school. Some of those times he was absent, he was in Kelsey's classroom. No teachers or administrators ever searched for him when he was absent or followed up with him about his whereabouts. Students in Kelsey's classroom witnessed Kelsey put her head on Doe's shoulder and have lengthy hugs with him. Though he was not in special education, Doe would get extra help with his assignments from Kelsey and, according to the suit, he felt obligated to have sex with her or she might not help him if he didn't meet her sexual demands. Kelsey sent the boy dozens of nude and partially nude photos of herself, sometimes several in a day, and he shared them with friends. Kelsey would invite Doe to her classroom alone during school hours, lock the door and have sex with him, the lawsuit said. She kept a record on her desk calendar of every time the two had sex, marking the day with a heart. At least two parents called school officials to report rumors of the sexual relationship and nude photos, but no investigation was done. A teacher's aide and police officer, both mandatory reporters of sexual abuse, did not inform anyone when told about the rumors. Kruse and Litterer spoke to Kelsey in January or February 2022 about the rumors, which she denied. Doe was never interviewed, and his mother was not contacted. On March 9, 2022, another mother texted Doe's mother about a message from Litterer about their sons leaving school during lunch and about Kelsey sending nude photos to students. The mother told Doe's mother that Kruse and Litterer had called her to ask what she knew about the rumors. Doe's mother had not been contacted, and she emailed Litterer. Later that day, Litterer left a voicemail for Doe's mother, telling her Doe would not be permitted to go to Kelsey's classroom and said, "we know Stefanie and (Doe) had a special relationship," indicating he had knowledge about their relationship, the lawsuit said. The other mother was searching her son's phone later that day and found text messages from Doe that indicated he had been having sex with Kelsey. She sent screenshots of them to Doe's mother, who then showed them to Sac County Sheriff Ken McClure. In an interview on March 11, Doe told McClure he and Kelsey had had sex numerous times. During the interview, while they were looking at Doe's Snapchat account, Kelsey sent him a photo of herself with the caption, "I love you." During an interview with authorities, Kelsey admitted having sex with Doe and was arrested. Since then, the lawsuit said, community member have made slanderous statements about Doe and his family and have harassed them. Doe, now age 17, quit attending school in person the day Kelsey was arrested and finished his education home schooling, graduating in May. As a result of the school's negligence and failure to investigate the rumors of Kelsey's sexual relationship with Doe, the lawsuit said, he and his mother have suffered emotional pain and anguish, humiliation, embarrassment, anxiety and loss of enjoyment of life and have incurred medical and counseling costs. They have requested a jury trial and award of a judgment against the district, Kruse and Litterer to compensate them for those damages. STORM LAKE, Iowa -- A man who escaped Storm Lake police while handcuffed Monday is back in custody. The Storm Lake Police Department said in an updated Facebook post Tuesday that 26-year-old Luis Rodriguez Garcia "has been located and is in custody." Rodriguez Garcia escaped from police Monday evening after being taken to Buena Vista Regional Medical Center's emergency room for a pre-incarnation screening. Earlier Monday evening, Storm Lake officers were called to a residence in the 500 block of Hudson St. for a trespassing incident. When they arrived on the scene, they found Rodriguez Garcia inside the home and took him into custody, according to a statement released by Assistant Police Chief Patrick Diekman. At 9:15 p.m., as a Storm Lake officer was escorting Rodriguez Garcia back to a patrol vehicle, he allegedly broke free from custody and fled from the officer on foot, a statement released Tuesday by Assistant Police Chief Patrick Diekman said. Rodriguez Garcia was last seen in the 1500 block of Shoreway Road. "Police searched the area throughout the evening but were unable to locate Rodriguez," the statement said. At 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sac County deputies were called to Schaller, Iowa, for a reported sighting of a man matching Rodriguez Garcia's description. Members of the Sac County Sheriff's Office, Buena Vista County Sheriff's Office and the Storm Lake Police Department responded and found Rodriguez Garcia in the area of Cory Avenue and 210th Street. He was taken into custody without incident, according to a statement released Wednesday by Diekman. After Rodriguez Garcia escaped from police custody, at 3:00 a.m., he allegedly entered an unlocked vehicle in the 1000 block of Seneca St. The statement said he took the vehicle and drove to Schaller, where the vehicle ran out of gas. He remained in Schaller until citizens in the area reported him to police. Rodriguez was taken to the Buena Vista County Jail where he was charged with first-degree theft, a class C felony, and misdemeanor charges of escape from custody, fourth-degree criminal mischief, interference with official acts, fifth-degree theft and trespassing -- second offense. SIOUX CITY The Woodbury County Sheriff's Office is purchasing an armored vehicle. After a shooting at a farm near Hornick, Iowa, resulted in the use of multiple armored vehicles from other entities, Woodbury County Sheriff Chad Sheehan started the process of purchasing an armored vehicle for the county. The Woodbury County Board of Supervisors approved funds for the purchase on Tuesday. At Tuesday's meeting, the supervisors discussed funding mechanisms to pay for the $385,000 vehicle. Budget Director Dennis Butler suggested the sheriff's office seek out donations and grants to decrease the county's financial obligation. The vehicle has been ordered, and Sheehan said it takes approximately 10 to 12 months for the vehicle to be built. In November, Sheehan told the board the deputies have been requesting an armored vehicle for years and they have been held at bay. On Oct. 29, officers received a 911 call, reporting a shooting that occurred on Old Highway 141, near Hornick. When tactical teams attempted to approach the situation, the suspect fired at them. Sheehan said without the support of nearby law enforcement agencies and their willingness to lend their armored vehicles, there would have been multiple law enforcement casualties. After that situation occurred, Sheehan said the department was going to look into what they needed and how to get the county's own armored vehicle. Sheehan said this would likely not be the last time a situation like this occurred. Sheehan said when he approached the board in November proposing the idea, he got a quote from the manufacturer of the vehicles. He said with the delay in the opening of the new county jail, the sheriff's office has room in their current budget to purchase the vehicle. When he reached out to the manufacturer days after receiving the quote, Sheehan said they wanted to increase the quote by around $25,000 or $50,000. Eventually, they agreed to honor the original quote. "At that point, I just said 'order it now,' so that we're locked in and it doesn't cost us any more money going forward," he said. A discussion was had on where the funding will come from. Some of the funding will come from capital improvement funds and unspent American Rescue Plan Act funds, totaling $315,398. The board decided to wait until the vehicle is delivered in September to determine how to cover the remaining $69,602. Originally, the idea was to use Missouri River Historic Development money and donations. "I think we can cover it any way we splice it, it's just how we want to do that is what we got to nail down I think," Supervisor Mark Nelson said. WASHINGTON The White House said Tuesday it is preparing additional "major sanctions" on Russia in response to opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death last week in an Arctic penal colony. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said the sanctions, on the eve of the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, "will be a substantial package covering a range of different elements of the Russian defense industrial base, and sources of revenue for the Russian economy that power Russia's war machine, that power Russia's aggression, and that power Russia's repression." National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the U.S. has not determined how Navalny died, but insisted that the ultimate responsibility lay with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Regardless of the scientific answer, Putin's responsible for it," he told reporters. Russian authorities say the cause of Navalny's death is still unknown and refused to release his body for the next two weeks as the preliminary inquest continues, members of his team said. Navalnys mother appealed Tuesday directly to Putin to intervene and turn her sons body over to her so she can bury him with dignity. Lyudmila Navalnaya, who has been trying to get his body since Saturday, appeared in a video outside the Arctic penal colony where Navalny died Friday. For the fifth day, I have been unable to see him. They wouldnt release his body to me. And theyre not even telling me where he is," a black-clad Navalnaya said in the video, with the barbed wire of Penal Colony No. 3 in Kharp, about 1,200 miles northeast of Moscow. "Im reaching out to you, Vladimir Putin. The resolution of this matter depends solely on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexeis body is released immediately, so that I can bury him like a human being, she said in the video, which was posted to social media by Navalny's team. They accused the government of stalling to try to hide evidence. On Monday, Navalnys widow, Yulia, released a video accusing Putin of killing her husband and alleged the refusal to release his body was part of a cover-up. They are cowardly and meanly hiding his body, refusing to give it to his mother and lying miserably, she said. The Treasury Department declined to comment on the details of the upcoming sanctions. Brian Nelson, the department's Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, is in Europe this week to continue working on Russia sanctions ahead of the invasion's two-year anniversary. So far, the U.S. and its allies have sanctioned thousands of Russian people and firms, frozen Russian Central Bank funds, banned certain Russian goods, restricted Russian banks' access to SWIFT the dominant system for global financial transactions and imposed a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian oil and diesel, among other measures. Policy experts have advanced an array of proposals meant to further starve Russia of the money it needs to continue its invasion from seizing the nation's Central Bank funds housed largely in Europe to lowering the Group of Seven price cap in Russian oil. A February working paper from the International Working Group on Russian Sanctions at Stanford University calls for heavier sanctions in Russia's energy market from lowering the current $60 price cap on Russian-produced oil to $30, as well as completing the EU and G7 ban on Russian hydrocarbons. Asked about more sanctions on Russia during a Council on Foreign Relations media briefing Tuesday, Stephen Sestanovich, a senior fellow for Russian and Eurasian studies at the organization, said "the choices are rather limited but it's not zero." Sestanovich said it is also possible that the U.S. and allies could lower the price cap on Russian oil, since it is an area where "the U.S. and EU have not been particularly aggressive." "They could try to go lower and put the squeeze on and force the Russians to sell more oil at a discount," he said, adding that he anticipates the U.S. to impose more personal sanctions on Russian officials. Charles Kupchan, also a CFR senior fellow and professor of international affairs at Georgetown University said, "sanctions are always in the quiver, but they're not going to matter that much because let's be honest, the sanctions have not had a huge impact on the Russian economy." "What will make a big difference is military and economic assistance to Ukraine, full stop," Kupchan said. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War GAYVILLE, S.D. -- Authorities have released the name of a driver killed this past weekend in a two-vehicle collision in Yankton County. A South Dakota Department of Public Safety news release said Michael Myers, 45, of Sioux Falls, was eastbound in the westbound lanes on South Dakota Highway 50 near Gayville at 8:49 p.m. Saturday, when his Ford van collided head on with a westbound Chevrolet Tahoe. Myers, who was not wearing a seat belt, was killed. The driver of the Tahoe, Alex Heine, 29, of Fordyce, Nebraska, who was wearing a seat belt, was flown by helicopter to a Sioux Falls hospital with life-threatening injuries. His passenger, Emily Heine, 28, of Fordyce, was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. She was wearing a seat belt. We dont get to see much of Miles Archer (Walter Long), business partner to detective Sam Spade (Humphrey Bogart) in John Hustons 1941 classic The Maltese Falcon. Archer shows up in the first scene, lanky and flashily dressed, foolishly ogling a potential client who is actually Brigid OShaughnessy (Mary Astor), the ultimate femme fatale, using a fake name. In the next scene, hes shot dead. Nevertheless, Archer plays a key role in the storys denouement. After figuring out that Brigid killed Archer, and despite having fallen for her himself, Spade turns her over to the cops. When a mans partner is killed, he explains, hes supposed to do something about it. It doesnt make any difference what you thought of him. He was your partner. Thats partly Spades personal moral code speaking, but its also an abiding theme in crime fiction: the transcendent, almost mystical bond between detective partners. The latest season of True Detective ends with a shot of Ennis Police Chief Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) sipping coffee on the deck of a lakeside cabin while her onetime partner Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis) can be glimpsed through a window, smiling at the other end of the deck. Since Navarro has been shown earlier succumbing to her familys strange propensity for walking out onto the Arctic ice and into oblivion, this communion is arguably supernatural. Thats how strong the connection gets between detective partners: It can even defy death. Advertisement Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, the OG sleuth pairing, set the pattern. Watson initially served as a handy device for Holmes creator: a conventional man of action able to narrate the exploits of an eccentric hero whod never bother to write them down himself. Together, Holmes and Watson turned 221B Baker St. into the site of a perpetual Boys Own adventure yarn, interrupted only by Watsons brief marriage and the three-year period during which Holmes pretended to be dead. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wanted to be rid of both of them. Desire brought Holmes and Watson back to their Baker Street idyll, but not the kind of desire certain fans like to imagine kindling between the roommates. Instead, it was the publics unquenchable longing to see the two men reunited and suspended in late-Victorian amber, ever ready to interview a new client or dash out together on a fresh case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement American television may be known for its maverick loner detectives, but its duos are just as iconic. In Britain, partnered detectives are even more central to crime series, where the generational succession resembles that of English monarchs. Through 24 seasons of Midsomer Murders, two successive Detective Chief Inspector BarnabysTom (John Nettles), followed by his cousin John (Neil Dudgeon)have run through a string of five detective sergeants, each keenly mourned by fans. These are partnerships that never end, even if the principals change a bit. What we want from our detective duos is something eternal. According to hoary formula, detective partners must have contrasting but complementary qualities and temperamentstwo incomplete individuals who form a balanced whole, the better to solve crimes. A sensitive intellectual must be teamed with an earthy pragmatist, a player with a family man, and so on. In American TV, the pairing is often cross-racial: Crockett (Don Johnson) and Tubbs (Philip Michael Thomas) in Miami Vice, McNulty (Dominic West) and Bunk (Wendell Pierce) in The Wire, Briscoe (Jerry Orbach) and Curtis (Benjamin Bratt) in Law & Order. The utopian dream embedded in such combos holds that a shared commitment to the job can bridge the great chasm of American social life. In the second season of NYPD Blue, the scruffy, bigoted Andy Sipowicz (Dennis Franz) initially bridles when paired with the elegant, racially ambiguous Bobby Simone (Jimmy Smits), but Simone soon wins his respect and eventually his friendship, and Sipowicz asks Simone to be best man in his wedding. By that time, the 1993 pilot of Homicide: Life on the Street had already treated this racist-detective character arc as a cliche in need of tweaking by having Black detective Meldrick Lewis (Clark Johnson) call his Italian-American partner Steve Crosetti (Jon Polito) a salami brain, prompting Crosetti to draft a mock discrimination complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Cagney & Lacey, the story of two seemingly incompatible detectives becoming close friends had acquired another twist: The two women (an ambitious single woman and a less-driven wife and mother) have to circumvent the smirking sexism of their lieutenant, who in the first episode insists that they spend their shifts undercover posing as streetwalkers. Instead of the blustering, obliquely defensive way that male detectives typically have it out with each other on TV, the first episode of Cagney & Lacey offered the astonishing spectacle of two people straightforwardly addressing their feelings. Lacey (Tyne Daly) accuses Cagney (Meg Foster), who has nearly gotten herself killed working solo on a serial killer case, of disregarding both teamwork and friendship. You want to be a star, she says angrily. In response, Cagney sheepishly admits that Lacey is right. What could they be but inseparable? Advertisement Cross-gender partnerships inevitably stir up intimations of romance. Not that some fans havent fantasized about same-sex canoodling, going all the way back to Holmes and Watson and flaring up extravagantly in the fandom of Sherlock, Steven Moffats stylized, information-age update of the franchise, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. A few malefemale partners seem more immune to innuendo: The traumatic cases dealt with by Elliot Stabler (Christopher Meloni) and Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, for example, would make that tasteless. But even the most clueless viewers had to wonder about Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) in Bones and Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson). Flirtation and slow-burn consummation were baked into the premises of Moonlighting and Remington Steele, and viewers only moderately intrigued by the whodunits stuck around to see the central pair get together at last. But I cant be the only one who appreciated how long Bones put off the crowd-pleasing collapse of Brennan and Booths platonic partnership into the inevitable, banal love affair. For a while there, the series refusal to give in was the best thing about the show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate True Detective: Night Country Is One of the Best Examples of a Very Particular Kind of Horror Read More As for Mulder and Scully, well, theres a reason The X-Files spawned a juggernaut of fan fiction. A friend who once wrote X-Files fic told me that before the pair finally did become a couple, members of the fandom believed that if they could just cobble together enough clips of shared glances and other hints at romantic yearning between Mulder and Scully, they would finally prove that love is real. But love is real, even when its not romantic. As Issa Lopez, the showrunner for True Detective: Night Country, told Slates Rebecca Onion when asked about viewers whod like to see Danvers and Navarro couple up, There are definitely loves that are deeper than romantic love. And Im a firm believer in this, and I believe these women love each other to a level and to a depth that goes beyond romance. Advertisement Shippers are gonna ship, and by all means let a million fics bloom, but in truth, their fantasy isnt about wanting to see a detective partnership (of whatever gender mix) turn into something more. There isnt anything more. Instead, the fantasy is that a romance could ever be as indestructible as a detective partnership. Cupid should be so lucky. Romantic love is heady but volatile and typically ephemeral. People cheat, get bored, fall out of love, realize they dont like each other that much anymore. But as Sam Spade observed, it doesnt make any difference what you think of your detective partner: You stick to him and up for him all the same. While partnership has been an abiding theme of the whole True Detective serieslets just pass over the rudderless second season as an exception that proves the rulethe humorlessness of the series original creator, Nic Pizzolatto, has kept it from doing full justice to the subject. The true apotheosis of TV detective partnerships is Homicide: Life on the Street, a cornucopia of workplace banter and bonding to which the numerous murder cases handled by the Baltimore PD often take a back seat. In Season 2, Detective John Munch (Richard Belzer) strolls into the teams favorite bar, announcing that his life has been ruined. His partner, Stanley Bolander (Ned Beatty), has been suspended for refusing to attend a mandatory counseling session. Munch announces to the room that, having lost his partner, he doesnt want to be a detective anymore. Ive considered the other possible partners, but none of them works out for me, he explains. Theres none of them who can insult the way I dress, the way I drive, the way I eat, my politics, my handwriting, my posture, my health, my brand of toothpaste. Advertisement Advertisement A detective partnership is an impossible matcha match made in hellthat in the crucible of shared purpose becomes rock-solid. The partners come to love each other in spite of having nothing else in common besides their quest for the truth. Who wouldnt be humbled by this loves ability to transcend all the mundane friction in a relationship until finally the friction itselfthe insults Munch misses so muchbecomes something you love? It runs contrary to everything we think we know about why people care for one another, which is why it feels so much like grace. When Sipowicz finally realizes that Simone is that kind of partner, his opposite and his complement, he offers to accompany Simone on an unpleasant errand for a friend. Who do you think you are, the Lone Ranger? Sipowicz says, as if hed never doubted the other man. Cmon, Ill ride along with you. The Supreme Courts 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade immediately diminished the quality of health care provided to pregnant patients in states that ban abortion. Suddenly, obstetricians could no longer adhere to basic standards of care, and were instead forced by law to provide inferiorand often life-threateningmedical treatment to patients. Fridays shock decision from the Alabama Supreme Court declaring that embryos are legally people will have a similarly devastating impact on the standard of care afforded to women struggling with infertility. The decision takes dead aim at IVF as its currently practiced, subjecting providers to ruinous damages (at best) and criminal prosecution (at worst). IVF clinics simply cannot operate under the draconian new constraints imposed by the court unless they adopt new, experimental techniques that are vastly more onerous and painful for patients. Judges are once again playing doctor, to the extreme detriment of women trying to build families. Fridays ruling involves an Alabama law called the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, though its implications stretch far beyond this one statute. The act allows the parent of a deceased child to collect punitive damages against a party who causes the death of a minor child through negligence. Here, the plaintiffswho already conceived several children through IVFaccused a fertility center of violating the act by failing to secure their unused embryos. They alleged that a patient accessed the embryos without authorization, dropping and killing them. The plaintiffs claimed that the fertility center is liable under the act because their embryos qualified as children. Advertisement By a 72 vote, the Alabama Supreme Court agreed. The majority declared that the natural, ordinary, commonly understood meaning of the word child includes embryos (which the opinion dubbed extrauterine children). Incredibly, the majority said this was true when the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act was passed in 1872. Thats because, according to the majority, state lawmakers of the 1870s believed that the unborn qualified as full legal persons no matter their physical locationthat is, inside a biological uterus or a cryogenic nursery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This holding on its own has terrifying implications for IVF in Alabama. It means that a medical professional who inadvertently damages or destroys a microscopic embryo has maimed or killed a legal person and is on the hook for punitive damages that could run into the millions. Clinics simply cannot bear this crushing liability. Any accidental damage to an embryo, and even a failed thawing or transfer, could trigger a calamitous wrongful death suit. And what about unused embryos? The Alabama Supreme Courts decision suggests that if patients refuse to pay for their storage, the clinic must simply preserve them for free, forever, lest it get slapped with a suit. Yet another unthinkable cost that no clinic could bear. Advertisement But the courts reasoning went far beyond this one statute. The majority also cited a provision of the Alabama Constitution referred to as the Sanctity of Life Amendment, which acknowledges, declares, and affirms that it is the public policy of this state to ensure the protection of the rights of the unborn child in all manners and measures lawful and appropriate. According to the majority, this amendment requires courts to interpret the rights of the unborn child equally with the rights of born children. In practice, that appears to mean that every state law involving children must be extended to embryosincluding criminal laws, up to and including homicide. Does the destruction of an embryo, intentional or not, now constitute murder in Alabama? The majority ominously reserved this question for a future case. Advertisement Advertisement In a concurrence, however, Chief Justice Tom Parker spelled out the implications. The people of Alabama, he declared, have adopted the theologically based view that life cannot be wrongfully destroyed without incurring the wrath of a holy God. (If the U.S. Supreme Court hadnt demolished the establishment clause, this opinion would surely violate it.) As a result, Parker continued, the courts have an affirmative duty to protect the unborn, including embryos. Any law that risks the deaths of these little people is constitutionally suspect. Courts may not engage in the business of carving out an exception for the people in this case, small as they were. This reasoning, on its own terms, applies to criminal laws with the exact same force as civil laws. And it means, Parker added, that even if the Alabama Legislature wanted to legalize IVF as its currently practiced, the state constitution would prohibit it from doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Not to worry, Parker assured Alabamians: IVF can still go on. But courts, not legislators or medical professionals, must dictate how it is performed so they can ensure that it avoids incurring the wrath of a holy God. Parker, who has no medical degree, then laid out an alternative method of IVF that would, he alleged, comply with the Alabama Constitution (and Gods will, as interpreted by the chief justice). Advertisement Advertisement Before diving into the gratuitous, anti-scientific cruelty of Parkers method, its important to understand how IVF is actually practiced. Doctors retrieve eggs, then fertilize them with sperm. They create as many embryos as possible, then freeze them. The embryos are rated for quality. Higher-quality embryos are thawed and transferred into the uterus. Multiple embryos are often transferred during each cycle in the hopes that at least one will result in a live birth. Advertisement This is the standard of care for IVF, and has been for decades. Barbara Collura, president of the National Infertility Association (known as RESOLVE), told me that the mainstream medical establishment universally agrees that this method is in the best interest of the patient. It has the highest likelihood of success and requires the least amount of pain. Related From Slate Sam Alito Is to Blame for the Alabama Supreme Courts Devastating Anti-IVF Ruling Read More But according to Parker, this method is unconstitutional, because it does not sufficiently protect embryos from being killed. (Although the majority is subtler, thats the clear implication of its opinion too.) So Parker laid out his alternative: Doctors must create just one embryo at a time. Each embryo, no matter how poor its quality, must be transferred. Only one embryo may be transferred at a time. If the cycle fails, the whole process must start all over again. Advertisement Advertisement Parker noted that Italy enshrined a similarly restrictive approach into law in 2004. Curiously, though, he failed to note that the country overturned the law five years later because it was a miserable medical failure. It has never been widely practiced in the United States for the same reason. Collura told me that Parkers approach would radically reduce the quality of Alabama patients treatment while increasing the cost exponentially. Why? IVF patients would have to accept the transfer of a single low-quality embryo that is certain to failand to do so one embryo at a time. Each transfer requires months worth of expensive medication, including injectable, both before and after the procedure. And each failed cycle requires the patient to start all over again. Most states (including Alabama) do not require insurance to cover IVF, and each cycle can cost up to $30,000. So Parkers method would force patientsthe ones who can afford itto undergo doomed, single-embryo transfers, one by one. All out of respect for a clump of cells that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Advertisement Advertisement There is a direct link between this judicial revision of IVF and the new, inferior standards of care that abortion bans inflict on obstetricians. Doctors in states like Texas (and Alabama) can no longer terminate pregnancies when, in their view, they pose a significant threat to the patients health. Instead, doctors must wait until a failing pregnancy poses a clear risk to the patients life, as defined under narrow state law. They must stand by as their patient faces sepsis, hemorrhaging, and other medical horrors, waiting to act until their life is in indisputable jeopardy. When in doubt, doctors must await a courts permission to perform a lifesaving abortion. Just as abortion bans compel obstetricians to value the hypothetical interests of a fetus over the needs of a real, live patient, Parkers IVF regime would force fertility clinics to value the hypothetical interests of an embryo over a patients desire to receive appropriate treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This connection should be no surprise. The anti-abortion movement has long opposed IVF, seeing no moral distinction between the destruction of an embryo, a fetus, or a living child. Most Americans disagree with this view: IVF was entirely legal in every state until the Alabama Supreme Courts decision. With that ruling, the dog has caught the car, and we have entered a new era of the post-Roe assault on reproductive rights, with judges openly limiting patients ability to undergo fertility treatment. As Collura told me, a decision like this was inevitable after Roes reversal, given how the anti-choice movement views embryos. The attack of IVF was just on the back burner. On Friday, to the detriment of untold thousands, it abruptly moved to the front. The Alabama Supreme Court ruled on Friday that frozen embryos are people. If the court follows its own reasoning to its logical conclusion, in vitro fertilization will end in that state, because these children cannot be destroyed by anyoneincluding not only the clinics, but even those who decide to store their embryos with them. The courts unprecedented decision was reached in a case alleging that embryos stored in a cryogenic nursery were negligently secured, and that the facility was not properly monitored. The complaint states that the defendant, the Center for Reproductive Medicine, allowed a hospital patient to enter the fertility clinic, remove several embryos, and then drop them, causing their destruction. The plaintiffs are former patients at the clinic who had become parents through successful implantation of other embryos they had helped to create, but who had opted to leave the remaining ones in cold storage. Those embryos are the ones the hospital patient allegedly dropped. The court construed the states wrongful death statute to apply not only to embryos and fetuses in utero, but also to embryos at a few days of gestation that had never been implanted in anyone. As the dissenting opinion points out, this bizarre conclusion misreads the states own wrongful death law. Worse, if applied consistently, the decision would fundamentally expand the reach of wrongful death statutes, with serious and unanticipated consequences. A short history of wrongful death laws will help situate this discussion. These laws have always occupied a strange place in tort law. For reasons that remain speculative and unclear, until the latter part of the 19th century the civil law provided no remedy against a defendant whose wrongful conduct caused the death of another person. Causing serious injury, by contrast, could lead to a negligence claim, and a substantial award of damages, in favor of the injured plaintiff. You read that right: It was better, financially speaking, to cause someones death than to cause them serious injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This anomalous state of affairs changed during the late 19th century. But it was state legislatures, not common law courts, that brought about this much-needed reform. Thus, unlike most of tort law, wrongful death cases depend on statutory interpretation rather than on judge-made, common law evolution. Moreover, they have always differed from personal injury cases in one crucial way: While the injured party is the one who recovers damages in a negligence case, the damages in a wrongful death cases are awarded to surviving family members, and are primarily based on the financial losses they endure because of the death. From the beginning, they were mostly brought by surviving wives and children who were left without their principal means of financial support. Understanding the purposes of wrongful death law turns out to be crucial to seeing one of the reasons why the Alabama courts decision is so wrongheaded. Advertisement For a number of reasons, wrongful death cases have long been an imperfect vehicle for compensating parents whose children are negligently killed. Since the losses generally center around the financial impact of the death, kids are (with rare exceptions) not exactly income generators for the family. Quite the opposite; financially speaking, they are a drain, not an asset. Therefore, some statutes now expressly permit recovery for loss of the companionship of a child, while some courts have generously interpreted more limited language in their state statutes to achieve that same result. Of course, such damages are difficult to assess. Advertisement The difficulties of proving loss multiply in several ways when the question moves to whether a family can recover damages for the death of unborn children, to use the Alabamas court repeated description. And, like other wrongful death statutes enacted more than a century ago, Alabamas made no provision for zygotes, embryos, or fetuses. The law, enacted in 1872, provides for recovery for the death of a minor child. As the dissent points out, a child is a person who is born, and whose life is then ended by someones wrongful act. And as the dissent also demonstrates, Alabama courts consistently applied that definition in a series of cases spanning many decades. In recent years, though, the court discovered that the language of the wrongful death law now applied to fetusesand at any stage of development. Advertisement Advertisement In fairness to the Alabama court, other states have also been inconsistent in these cases. Many courts now allow wrongful death claims where the fetus was viable. Whatever the problems with the viability standard in abortion cases, it makes sense in wrongful death suits. If fetal development has progressed to the point where survival outside the womb is possible, its easier to argue that an independent life was ended. Push too far back in embryonic development, though, and the argument weakens quickly. Many courts still balk at allowing wrongful death claims in these cases, in part because its impossible to determine whether the pregnancy would have resulted in the birth of a live child. (Consider the prevalence of miscarriage during the first trimester.) Too, there are no actual economic damages, and even the loss of companionship is entirely speculative. Nonetheless, a few courts have permitted recovery in these cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Alabamas Assault on IVF Is Even Worse Than It Sounds Read More But until this Alabama decision, no court had permitted a wrongful death claim in the case of a negligently destroyed frozen embryo, even though the theory has been tried in other states. No conclusion other than rejecting liability is tenable. Consider the facts in the very case the court decided. As the court summed up the defendants position during oral argument, the three sets of parents had contracted as follows: to destroy any embryos that had remained frozen longer than five years, or to donate them to researchers whose projects would result in the destruction of the embryos, or to allow any abnormal embryos to be experimented on and then discarded. This language, by the way, comes from the majority decision, not from the dissent. But the majority allowed the case to move forward anyway, saying that these issues could be resolved at a later point in the litigation. Advertisement Advertisement That makes no sense at all. The agreements the courts referred to are quite typical, and they underscore the obvious point that even the parents of these embryos think of them as their property, to be negotiated about and treated as any other property they own and can dispose of as they wish. Theres an argument to be made against allowing the creation, implantation, and destruction of embryosbut thats an argument for bioethicists concerned about what they view as commodification of human beings, not an excuse to warp the wrongful death law to convert the embryos into something they plainly are not. Advertisement There are two possible consequences here, and we should hope that the illogical one prevails. If the court believes that these embryos are in fact unborn children protected by the wrongful death law, then none of these alleged agreements are legally valid under standard principles of contract law. To state the obvious: You cant contract for the death of human beings. But perhaps the court will ignore or try to sidestep this embarrassing point when the case returns to the justices, and somehow try to square the circle by holding that these embryos are somehow not yet people when such agreements are initially made. (I said it didnt make sense.) Meanwhile, what is a trial court supposed to do with this inconsistency in the meantime, now that the case has been sent back for further proceedings? Advertisement The more cataclysmic outcome would ensue if the court follows its own logic: If these embryos are in fact people, then their destruction would be, in a word, murder, as that term is commonly understood: The intentional taking of another human life. The court dips a toe into this whirlpool by stating that the patient killed (rather than destroyed) the embryos. Currently, those killings could not be prosecuted under the states criminal law (which does consider killing a woman while shes pregnant a double homicide), but they would certainly amount to causing a wrongful death, and the court would then need to appoint a guardian to represent the interests of the wrongfully destroyed embryo. The logic of this decision would be that the wrongful death suit would then be appropriate against both the clinic and those who decided to freeze their embryos. Its hard to say whether the court will go this far, but thats where the analysis leads. At least for now, both of those groups should be worried about suits brought on behalf of these embryoswhich would likely come from the very same groups that led the charge against the right to terminate a pregnancy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if the court doesnt go that far, IVF treatment will effectively and soon become financially out of reach for some people. No clinic will freeze unused embryosat least not without a strong waiver of liability, the enforceability of which is now unclear. And for fear that the waiver will be declared unenforceable, clinics will beef up security, and pass that cost on to hopeful future parents. Im not even done. Yet another problem is that the categories of damages that are awarded in wrongful death laws simply do not fit the frozen embryo cases. Financial loss to surviving family members? Forget that. And loss of companionship? Heres the chain of causation that would be needed for that to work: First, the couple would have to show that they planned to implant the embryos at some future date. Even if that could be established, theyd then have to show that: 1) the embryos would have been successfully implanted; 2) they were viable; and 3) they would have survived the pregnancy and been born alive. Given the low percentage of success of IVF treatments, such a combination of showings would border on the impossible, and vividly illustrates why no other court agrees with Alabama. Advertisement Im not arguing that these couples should be without remedy. But that remedy lies in negligence, for the loss of property. And evaluating the cost of that loss need not be limited to out-of-pocket losses. Alabama is among a number of states that allow recovery for the true value of the lost property to the plaintiffs. The principle was established in a 1918 case involving the wrongful destruction of the plaintiffs photographs, and is routinely invoked in cases involving pets, which are what I might call property-plus. The same approach could lead to a fair outcome here: If the negligence case is proven, the defendants should be made to pay, even if the embryos would have been destroyed in any case. Its one thing to imagine them going to science; its quite another to imagine them dashed to the floor, an episode likely to cause people like these plaintiffs to experience a true sense of loss. These embryos are property, legally speaking, but a lot can still be done to protect real interests. Twisting wrongful death law into a pretzel isnt the way to do that. I would like to thank my colleague, Brendan Conner, who is an assistant professor of law at Delaware Law School , and my torts students for their helpful insights. This is Totally Normal Quote of the Day, a feature highlighting a statement from the news that exemplifies just how extremely normal everything has become. Its a form of Navalny. Donald Trump, speaking of his own legal troubles on Tuesday It took Donald Trump three long days to respond to the news of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalnys death. When he did, he didnt accuse President Vladimir Putin of murder. Instead, he described the episode as a warning sign of autocracyin the U.S. As Trump wrote on Truth Social on Monday: The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country. It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction. Open Borders, Rigged Elections, and Grossly Unfair Courtroom Decisions are DESTROYING AMERICA. WE ARE A NATION IN DECLINE, A FAILING NATION! MAGA2024 He didnt elaborate as to how, exactly, Navalnys death in a remote Arctic prison colony made him more aware of what is happening in our Country, given that Putins silencing of dissidents seems much more motivated by Russias domestic politics than Americas. Luckily, the next day, Trump offered some more clarity. During a town hall in South Carolina on Tuesday, Fox News host Laura Ingraham asked Trump how he was going to pay off the $355 million he now owes in damages from his New York civil fraud trial. Advertisement Its a form of Navalny, Trump replied. It is a form of communism or fascism. While it was a bit of a muddled answer, what he meant was that he, Donald Trump, was a Navalny-like figure facing political persecution. He argued that his various legal troubleshe still faces four separate criminal casesshould be seen as a president abusing his power to quash his rival. We are turning into a communist country in many ways, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Biden has no control over the cases against Trump. But that hasnt stopped Trump and his supporters from making the former president into a heroic opposition figure, facing tyrannical show trials. On The Ingraham Angle Monday, Ingraham floated the idea that Trump was at risk of being Americas first real political prisoner. Advertisement Related From Slate It Wasnt Just Courage That Kept Alexei Navalny Fighting Read More Trumps claim of kinship with Navalny would be strange enough on its own, given that the American here encouraged an anti-democratic insurrection, publicly claimed to want to be a temporary dictator, and has repeatedly praised strongman rulers such as Hungarys Viktor Orban for their political dominance. But its made all the more bizarre by Trumps history of cozying up to Putin. Trump has repeatedly bragged about his relationship with the Russian leader, arguing that he would have been able to avert the war with Ukraine. He has defended Putins extrajudicial killings (You think our country is so innocent?); praised him, ahead of the Ukraine invasion, for being smart; and said he would encourage Russia to do whatever the hell they want to any American ally in NATO that he thought was not spending enough on defense. Advertisement So what are we supposed to conclude about Trumps position on Putin and Navalny? Does he think that Putins suppression and assassination attempts against Navalny were astute moves by a strong leader? Or does he think Navalny was as unworthy of poisoning, imprisonment, and death as he, the innocent Donald Trump, is of his punishments? Expecting logical consistency from Trump during a campaign cycle is pointless. His policy positions are based on whatever he feels at any given moment, and what he feels right now, under serious legal threat for his actions, is persecuted. In his conversation with Ingraham on Tuesday, Trump did call Navalnys death sad, but his anguish on behalf of Putins most powerful domestic critic came across as rather limited. Navalny, Trump said, was very bravebut would have been better served by staying away and talking from outside of the country. Keeping up with Donald Trumps court schedule is a dizzying task, since he faces two federal trials, a criminal trial in Georgia, and two separate civil and criminal trials in New York. (Oh, and hes running for president.) To make it easier to follow along, each Monday well be looking back on all the Trump trial-related developments you might have missed the previous week. Last week was a blockbuster one for the Trump trials, starting with a New York judge setting March 25 as the trial date for the hush money case. Trumps New York civil fraud trial also came to a conclusion, with Justice Arthur Engoron deciding that the former president must pay $355 million and cannot lead the Trump Organization for the next three years. And down in Georgia, a two-day evidentiary hearing quickly turned dramatic and messy as Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis fought against misconduct allegations that could get her kicked off her own case. The Hush Money Case Is Going to Trial Next Month Trumps first criminal trial will happen in March after all, and its not what many expected. After a series of setbacks, special counsel Jack Smiths March 4 election interference trial was taken off the calendar earlier this month. Now Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs hush money case has been issued a March 25 trial date. Bragg has charged Trump with 34 felony counts for making at least three separate payments during his 2016 presidential campaign to suppress information about his alleged extramarital affairs with adult film star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, plus one payment to a former Trump Tower doorman who claimed he had intel about a child Trump had out of wedlock. (Trump has denied these affairs and payments.) The indictment also mentions a familiar name, Michael Cohen, Trumps former personal fixer, who paid off Daniels, helped facilitate the McDougal payoff, and was later reimbursed by the former president. Cohen was not charged in Braggs indictment; he testified in front of a grand jury and became a critical witness in the DAs investigation. Bragg argues that the alleged payments amount to falsifying business records, a felony offense in New York, and constitute a violation of election law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though some believe that this case is considered the weakest of the four outstanding indictments from an evidentiary perspective, as former federal prosecutor Robert Katzberg recently wrote for Slate, having this trial move forward means that Trump could conceivably be convicted before the presidential election in November. (If he were to be convicted and win the election, Trump wouldnt be able to pardon himself in this state case.) Trumps lawyers did try to have Braggs indictment thrown out, describing it as a zombie case that was brought six years too late in an attempt to jeopardize Trumps 2024 presidential campaign, an attempt Justice Juan Merchan rejected. During a pretrial hearing last week, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche insisted that the March 25 trial date put Trump in an impossible position, referencing Smiths federal election interference case, which was supposed to go to trial March 4but Smiths trial is now indefinitely postponed while Trump pursues a claim that hes protected by presidential immunity all the way to the Supreme Court. Advertisement Merchan did confirm that Trump would not be put through two trials at the same time, but that his attorneys should be prepared to move forward on March 25. You know about this case. I had made clear this was a date certain, you proceeded at our own peril, said Merchan. Trump Must Pay New York $355 Million (and Then Some) The former president can no longer lead his namesake business empireat least for a few years. On Friday, New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron announced that Trump cannot serve as an officer in any New York corporation for the next three years, cannot apply for any loans from a financial institution in New York, and must pay a $355 million fine, with interest, to the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision marks a dramatic end to New York Attorney General Letitia James civil fraud lawsuit, which accused Trump of overinflating his assets in order to earn tax incentives and secure loans and better insurance premiums. Engoron had issued a pretrial ruling that found that Trump had committed fraud; the eight-week-long trial was held to zero in on the extent of the fraud committed. During the trial, Trump took the witness stand himself to defend the Trump Organization operations, along with his three children Eric, Donald Trump Jr., and Ivanka. Cohen also took the stand. In the end, Engoron ruled pretty decisively against the Trump family. Defendants are incapable of admitting the error of their ways. Instead they adopted a See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil posture that the evidence belies. Engoron also said that their refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing during the trial suggests that they will engage in [fraud] going forward unless judicially restrained. Engorons decision also referenced his court-appointed monitor for the Trump Organization, whose report found that the companys operations still raise some red flags. Advertisement Slates Alexander Sammon and Mark Joseph Stern did some back-of-the-envelope math and found that Trumps current financial situation is pretty grim. In addition to Engorons $355 million fine, just last month a court ordered Trump to pay $83 million to writer E. Jean Carroll after losing a defamation lawsuit against her, on top of the $5 million that he was ordered to pay Carroll last year for sexually assaulting and defaming her. Trumps recent legal penalties add up to a whopping $438 million, while his cash holdings are reportedly sitting at $425 million. Advertisement Advertisement Then again, Trump might have a backup plan already in place. The former presidents social media site Truth Social is merging with a special acquisition company, and the deal awards him over 78 million shares that, at current prices, would be worth roughly $4 billion. And over the weekend, Trump debuted $399 Never Surrender sneakers, advertised as bold, gold and tough, just like President Trump. A Georgia Courtroom Was in a Sparring Match Over Misconduct Allegations Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis burst into a Georgia courtroom last week and demanded to testify under oath, to the surprise of basically everyone in the room. She wanted to personally address the allegations that she improperly engaged in a romantic relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade, whom she hired to work on her election interference case. (Willis indictment charges Trump and 18 others for interfering in Georgias 2022 election.) Advertisement Advertisement The misconduct allegations were brought by Ashleigh Merchant, a lawyer representing co-defendant Mike Roman. Merchant is accusing Willis of hiring Wade because the two were engaged in a romantic relationship and that the couple have a conflict of interest in prosecuting this case, since Wade paid for vacations for the couple through funds he received for his work for Fulton County. In response to Merchants allegations, both Willis and Wade filed a motion admitting they were dating, and Judge Scott McAfee held an evidentiary hearing to understand what both sides had to say about it. Advertisement Wade took the witness stand before Willis and testified that the DA paid him back in cash for travel they took together and that the couple did not start dating until early 2022. (Willis started her investigation in 2020 and hired Wade in 2021.) When Willis took the witness stand, she also said that she paid Wade back in cash for trips they took together. The cash transaction was something Merchant fiercely questioned since it was a large sum of money with no paper trail. John Floyd, Willis father, also took the witness to defend his daughters use of cash, saying that as a child he told his daughter to keep six months of cash, always. He added, Maybeand excuse me, Your Honor, Im not trying to be racistbut its a Black thing. Advertisement Willis also testified that as of 2024, she is no longer in a romantic relationship with Wadeand the hearing had a distinct post-breakup vibe, as Willis remarked that Wade had once said that the only thing a woman can do for him is make him a sandwich. Amid all the heated exchanges, McAfee repeatedly interjected in an attempt to differentiate questions that were relevant to Willis ability to prosecute her case and ones that were obviously salacious and had no bearing on the case. The two-day hearing was nothing short of messy but made one thing very clear: The optics for Willis and Wade are not good. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McAfee is now deciding whether to grant Merchants motion to have her clients charges dismissed and to have Willis and Wade disqualified from prosecuting this case. The bar to remove a prosecutor from their own case is high, as Slates Mark Joseph Stern and Jeremy Stahl recently explained. The defendants need to prove that Willis benefited personally from prosecuting them, or can be reasonably seen to have done so, in a way that will prejudice the case against Trump and his co-defendants. Jack Smith Asks the Supreme Court to Deny Trumps Immunity Appeal For the second time in the past three months, Smith filed a motion to the Supreme Court urging the justices to act quickly in order to let Trumps election interference trial move forward. In the motion, filed last week, Smith asked the justices to reject Trumps attempts to block a recent appeals court decision that found that he cannot claim absolute immunity from prosecution. Advertisement Trump has been continuously trying to have Smiths indictment thrown out, arguing that hes protected from prosecution for actions he took while he was president. After Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is tasked with overseeing Smiths trial, rejected Trumps presidential immunity motion, Trump appealed her decision. Smith tried petitioning the Supreme Court to bypass the federal appeals court and hear Trumps presidential immunity appeal directly in order to maintain his March 4 trial date, but the court refusedand the three-judge panel ended up flat-out rejecting Trumps immunity defense. Advertisement Now the former president is expected to appeal once more, and last week he asked the Supreme Court to grant a staykeeping Smiths case on pausewhile he prepares to appeal. Last week, Smith filed a response motion with the high court and argued, Any executive immunity that may have protected [Trump] while he served as President no longer protects him against this prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement The special counsel also argued that if Trumps claim to immunity is accepted, it would upend understandings about Presidential accountability that have prevailed throughout history while undermining democracy and the rule of law. Trump has also argued that if he is prosecuted, it would open the door for future presidents to be targeted for their actions, something Smith says blatantly overlooks the unprecedented scale, nature, and seriousness of his alleged crimesa fraudulent effort to stay in office in defiance of the will of the electorate. So far, the Supreme Court has not yet weighed in on Trumps request for a stay order. This is Totally Normal Quote of the Day, a feature highlighting a statement from the news that exemplifies just how extremely normal everything has become. Ive heard more about a discharge petition in the last two days from foreign leadersat the highest levelsthan in my prior 11 years in office combined. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, at the Munich Security Conference With Congress on recess, both the House and Senate sent sizable delegations to the annual Munich Security Conference to schmooze with world leaders about the pressing global issues of the day. It just happened to be the case that during this years gathering, an acute international security matter is pending in the House of Representatives. The world is waiting to see whether the U.S. will extend its commitment to Ukraines defense against the Russian invasion. As Russia gains territory and Ukraine runs low on ammunition, Speaker Mike Johnson is sitting on a Senate-passed bill containing $60 billion in assistance for the Ukrainian defense effort. (Another bipartisan group in the House has put forward a separate measure offering around $47.7 billion for Ukraine assistance, paired with some border security measures. The endless legislative loop continues apace.) Johnson, whom Republican hard-liners could seek to defenestrate should he allow a vote on Ukraine assistance, has thrown cold water on the Senate bill, saying that the House will have to continue to work its own will on these important matters and that America deserves better than the Senates status quo. The question in Munich, thenand its quite a questionwas whether the United States would really abandon its role as a guarantor of Europes security, and what domines could fall should that scenario come to pass. (Thanks for playing, Taiwan?) Its interesting thenand, frankly, embarrassingto see other world leaders having to dig through byzantine congressional processes to see if theres a way to circumvent Speaker Johnson. What about a discharge petition?a process by which a majority of members can force a vote on a particular billis a recurring question from Hill reporters about a process that almost never comes to pass, and useful fodder for news explainers whenever a critical bill is stalled in the House. The fact that other world leaders are apparently peppering the House Democratic leader about this, too, makes for a sad state of affairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But anyway to force a vote on the Senates foreign assistance bill, what about a discharge petition? One common problem with discharge petitions is that the process is cumbersome and requires long waiting periodsalthough Democrats believe that one broadly written discharge petition they had filed last year as a last-ditch measure to avoid debt default could be used here. Still, there are various finicky rules surrounding discharge petitions that dont make them the most time-sensitive option. And Democrats would need to get a substantial number of Republicans to break ranks with their own leadership, since a decent chunk of Democrats would remove their names from the discharge petition in opposition to the bills assistance for Israel. Discharge petitions arent hot anymore, anyway. The trendier speaker-circumvention method under discussion these days is defeating the previous question. Thats a process in which a majority defeats a common procedural vote and briefly hijacks control of the floor. We encourage Volodymyr Zelensky or Olaf Scholz, or whoever these muckety-mucks were (Kate Middleton?), to pepper Jeffries about defeating the PQ to pass foreign assistance. Alternately, they could just pressure the hell out of Mike Johnson to pass Ukraine aid on conventional grounds. Kickstarter is a way to fund a creative project. Its mission is to bring these types of campaigns to life, and create a project with a funding goal and project deadline. Then Kickstarter backers can pledge cash. Basically, this is a crowdfunding platform for entrepreneurs looking for alternative funding. Youll need to follow some steps and there are some payment processing fees for the raised money. What Is Kickstarter? There are lots of different sites that raise funds. Kickstarter is different from other crowdfunding platforms. This one is dedicated to supporting the creative ecosystem. They are a community of people like poets, painters musicians, and writers as well as gamers and others. It started out in 2009 and has become a Public Benefit Corporation since then. Kickstarter is an independent company with around 80 people that work together. The most winning Kickstarter projects that have been funded have won Grammys and Oscars. They are transparent about how their cookies collect information. Here are some cookies settings that reject info from Google. How Does Kickstarter Work? This is different from other crowdfunding campaign sites. A successful campaign will raise money for an individual project. Heres how. A campaign creator sets both the deadline and the funding goals. These campaigns look for donors. The platform has been called crowdfunding because each project or idea looks for donations from a large number of people. Kickstarter funds come from people who enjoy creative efforts. Kickstarter creators who miss their deadline dont get any of the money raised. A projects success depends on a community effort. Thats the ingredient for most successful projects. What Creative Projects Can Be Launched with Kickstarter? Kickstarter-funded projects number in the hundreds of thousands. Project creators work in a variety of different fields from tech and design to illustration and comics. Here are some of the better projects. Slow Rise Bakehouse Expansion This is a bakery in Forest Grove, Oregon thats looking to expand. They use different types of whole grains in their products and partner with farms nearby. The Smart Belt This Kickstarter project comes from Wilmington, DE. This is another one of the Kickstarter campaigns that has surpassed its funding goal. The product page contains a link designed to drive in more backers. Domestic Duffel // Your Roadtrip Companion The travel bag comes from a business owner with specific funding goals. This is one of the small businesses that offer several pledge options. Potential backers can go through a list of Add ons. Scroll down on the project page. Black Coffins #2 A projects success depends on creativity. This business idea is a good example. This is the second part of a supernatural western horror story. Some successful campaigns use the Kickstarter platform for comic books. Like this one. It has an interesting project page. Capsule Gravity: Your Futuristic Efficiency Booster This is a multifunctional timer with an excellent success rate on the site. It has reached and exceeded its fundraising goals. Its one of the most successful campaigns on Kickstarter and a testament to their creative services. READ MORE: Kickstarted Launches Designed by Artist Can You Use Kickstarter for Business? Raising money for a business is one of the options. This is an excellent platform for businesses and startups. Its a great platform because you dont give up equity or go into debt. If youre a new business consider this crowdfunding site. It has helped over 224,973 projects with 82,311,041 pledges. Kickstarter works without the need for a business loan. There are even some experts you can draw on for paid advertising. You can even use the default settings to change the currency you view your campaign in. Does It Cost Money to Start a Kickstarter? This funding platform charges 5% for the funds that are collected on any project. Your small business will also need to pay 3-5% as a payment processing fee. The platform fee and other transactions are processed through Stripe. Kickstarter funding is based on the all-or-nothing funding model. That includes a set number of days to reach your goal. How to Start a Successful Kickstarter Campaign You will need many donors to reach the fundraising goal. Here is some advice on how to put together a winning project. You need to set a realistic starting point. Based on the amount of money that youre going to need. The idea is to cover costs Decide on the channels that youre going to use for your campaign. Social media sites work well. Decide on the type of backer rewards youre going to give out. Kickstarter has things they prohibit like financial returns. You cant offer revenue-sharing. And you cant offer equity. Or solicit business loans. Its a good idea to create a buzz with the landing page before your product launch. Here are a few tips on getting that right. Take advantage of what the platform offers. Kickstarter offers some tools to get you started. Theres a Projects We Love badge, A Recommended section, and others. There are a number of different factors that influence how these work. However, one of the big ones is how much momentum you gain by putting together visitors and backers. Aspect Description Setting Realistic Starting Point Begin with a funding goal that realistically covers your project costs. Calculate the minimum funds needed to execute your idea successfully. Choosing Campaign Channels Select effective channels to promote your campaign. Leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Designing Backer Rewards Offer enticing rewards to backers, keeping in mind Kickstarter's restrictions. Avoid financial returns, equity offers, or business loan solicitations. Creating Pre-launch Buzz Build anticipation with a well-designed landing page before your campaign launch. Use captivating visuals, engaging content, and a clear call to action. Utilizing Kickstarter Tools Take advantage of Kickstarter's built-in tools. Aim for a "Projects We Love" badge and inclusion in the "Recommended" section. Build momentum by attracting visitors and backers to your campaign. The Unique Value of Kickstarter for Creative Ventures Kickstarters Distinct Focus on Creativity Unlike other crowdfunding platforms, Kickstarter is specifically designed to support creative projects, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of artists, writers, musicians, and innovators. Established in 2009, Kickstarters mission is to empower creators to transform their ideas into reality by connecting them with a community of backers who share their passion. Diverse Creative Fields Kickstarter accommodates a wide array of creative endeavors, from tech innovations and design projects to illustration, comics, and more. This diversity is reflected in the hundreds of thousands of successfully funded projects spanning various domains. Community-Centric Approach The platform operates on a community-driven model, where individuals contribute to projects they believe in, enabling creators to bring their artistic visions to life. Kickstarters success stories include projects that have earned prestigious awards like Grammys and Oscars, showcasing its impact on the creative landscape. Crafting a Successful Kickstarter Campaign: Key Steps and Considerations Setting the Stage for Success A compelling campaign begins with setting realistic funding goals and deadlines, ensuring that the projects financial needs are covered. Creators must determine the channels they will leverage for campaign promotion, with social media platforms proving effective in reaching a wider audience. Creative Backer Rewards Backer rewards play a pivotal role in enticing support. Kickstarter prohibits offering financial returns, equity, or business loans, but allows for creative rewards such as exclusive merchandise, early access, or personalized experiences. Creating Pre-Launch Buzz Building anticipation is crucial. Creators can create a landing page and generate excitement through teasers and updates before the official campaign launch. Kickstarters built-in tools, such as the Projects We Love badge and the Recommended section, can provide additional visibility and momentum. Harnessing Kickstarters Tools Utilizing Kickstarters tools like badges and recommendations can boost a projects visibility and engagement, driving more visitors and backers to the campaign. Kickstarters Financial Framework: Costs, Benefits, and Accountability Fees and Financial Structure Kickstarter charges a 5% platform fee on funds collected from successful campaigns, supporting the platforms operations. Additionally, payment processing fees ranging from 3% to 5% are applied to contributions, with Stripe handling transactions securely. All-or-Nothing Funding Model Kickstarter employs an all-or-nothing funding model, where campaigns must reach their set funding goal within a specified timeframe to receive any funds. This model encourages accountability and motivates creators to rally their communities in support. Enhancing Engagement Through Storytelling on Kickstarter Crafting a compelling narrative for your Kickstarter campaign can significantly enhance engagement and support from the community. Storytelling is a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, create a connection, and build trust with potential backers. Heres how to weave a captivating story that aligns with your projects goals and resonates with your audience. Narrative Structure : Begin with the inspiration behind your project, the challenges youve faced, and the journey to overcome them. This structure helps backers understand the purpose and passion driving your project. : Begin with the inspiration behind your project, the challenges youve faced, and the journey to overcome them. This structure helps backers understand the purpose and passion driving your project. Authenticity and Transparency : Share genuine stories and experiences related to your project. Authenticity fosters trust and can motivate backers to support your vision. : Share genuine stories and experiences related to your project. Authenticity fosters trust and can motivate backers to support your vision. Visual and Emotional Appeal : Incorporate visuals such as images, sketches, and videos that complement your story. Emotional appeal can be a significant motivator for backing a project, so highlight the impact your project could have on individuals or communities. : Incorporate visuals such as images, sketches, and videos that complement your story. Emotional appeal can be a significant motivator for backing a project, so highlight the impact your project could have on individuals or communities. Update and Engage: Keep your backers and potential supporters updated with progress, setbacks, and stories along the way. Engagement through updates encourages a sense of community and ongoing support. Kickstarter Campaign Analytics Understanding and analyzing your Kickstarter campaigns performance is crucial for achieving your funding goals. Traffic and Engagement Metrics : Track the number of visitors to your campaign page, where they come from, and their engagement level. Use this data to understand which promotional channels are most effective. : Track the number of visitors to your campaign page, where they come from, and their engagement level. Use this data to understand which promotional channels are most effective. Conversion Rates : Measure the percentage of visitors who become backers. A low conversion rate may indicate the need to improve your campaigns messaging or rewards. : Measure the percentage of visitors who become backers. A low conversion rate may indicate the need to improve your campaigns messaging or rewards. Backer Demographics : Analyze the demographics of your backers to tailor your communication and marketing efforts. Understanding your audience can help you reach more like-minded individuals. : Analyze the demographics of your backers to tailor your communication and marketing efforts. Understanding your audience can help you reach more like-minded individuals. Funding Trends: Monitor your campaigns funding progress over time. Identify patterns or periods of increased activity to replicate successful strategies or address slow periods. Leveraging Community and Partnerships on Kickstarter Collaboration can play a vital role in the success of a Kickstarter campaign. Partnering with other creators, influencers, or organizations can broaden your reach and add credibility to your project. Here are some strategies for building partnerships and fostering a supportive community around your campaign: Cross-Promotion with Creators : Partner with other Kickstarter creators for cross-promotion. Sharing each others campaigns can tap into new audiences and mutual support. : Partner with other Kickstarter creators for cross-promotion. Sharing each others campaigns can tap into new audiences and mutual support. Influencer Partnerships : Collaborate with influencers who align with your projects values and audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost visibility and credibility. : Collaborate with influencers who align with your projects values and audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost visibility and credibility. Community Engagement : Build a community around your project by actively engaging with backers and potential supporters on social media, forums, and Kickstarters comments section. A strong community can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and additional promotion through word-of-mouth. : Build a community around your project by actively engaging with backers and potential supporters on social media, forums, and Kickstarters comments section. A strong community can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and additional promotion through word-of-mouth. Partnerships with Organizations: Seek partnerships with organizations or companies that can offer support, resources, or exposure for your campaign. These collaborations can provide a solid foundation for your projects success. Navigating Success and Challenges on Kickstarter Project Success and Ownership Successfully funded projects grant creators full ownership of their work, allowing them to retain creative control and independence. While financial gains cannot be directly solicited, Kickstarter serves as a platform to fund artistic endeavors without relinquishing equity or incurring debt. Addressing Project Failures In cases where a project falls short of its funding goal, backers are not charged, and the project does not proceed. Unfulfilled pledges are dropped after seven days, ensuring transparency and accountability. Kickstarters Legal Landscape Any legal matters arising from Kickstarter campaigns are governed by New York State law, providing a clear framework for resolving disputes and ensuring accountability. Is Kickstarter Right for You? Ideal for Small Businesses and Startups Small businesses and startups can benefit from Kickstarters platform, leveraging it as an alternative source of funding without giving up equity or taking on debt. Over 224,973 projects have been helped by 82,311,041 pledges, showcasing the positive impact on entrepreneurial ventures. Considerations for Nonprofits Nonprofit organizations seeking to overcome fundraising challenges can explore Kickstarters potential, adhering to specific guidelines and rules tailored to their missions. Bank Account Requirement Creators need a bank account to effectively utilize Kickstarters features and facilitate fund disbursement, ensuring a seamless experience for both creators and backers. What Happens If a Kickstarter Project Fails? A project can fall below its funding goal when it ends. Sometimes, a Kickstarter campaign has pledges you cant collect on. Those get dropped after seven days. Youre Kickstarter account still gets the balance less fees when the campaign ends. Can You Make Money on Kickstarter? When youre a project creator, 100% of the ownership of your work stays with you. However, you cant use the platform for financial returns, to solicit loans or equity offers. If youre wondering about any possible legal action from using Kickstarter, follow this link. Any disputes are covered by New York State law. Is It a Good Idea to Start a Kickstarter Campaign? A successfully funded campaign works wonders for small businesses and startups. Nonprofit organizations that have issues raising enough money should consider the platform. But there are specific rules to follow. Remember youll need a bank account to make the site work for you. Kickstarter is reliable and credible. Its even funded by venture capitalists. If youve still got questions about this platform, check out their recent articles. Thousands of Indian dockworkers are refusing to assist in the transporting of Israeli arms. This tremendous example of working-class solidarity must be repeated across the world to effectively resist Israels slaughter! On 14 February, the Water Transport Workers Federation of India (WTWFI) representing 3,500 workers in 11 of Indias 12 major ports published a statement in solidarity with Palestine, refusing to load or unload weaponized cargoes from Israel or any other country which could handle military equipment and its allied cargo for war in Palestine. The Water Transport Workers Federation of India, affiliated with CITU, representing workers at 11 major Indian ports refuses to load or unload weapons to Israel. This is in solidarity with a call by Palestinian trade unions. The power of the working class pic.twitter.com/jNtkS9daU6 Jorge Martin (@marxistJorge) February 19, 2024 In doing so, they have joined a handful of other unions in enforcing a workers boycott on Israeli arms. The Organizacion Estibadores Portuarios de Barcelona (OEPB), representing 1,200 dockworkers in Barcelona, as well as several Belgian transport unions took similar action in November last year in solidarity with Palestine. This is the way forward for the Palestine solidarity movement: marshalling the collective power of the working class to isolate the Israeli war machine. Notably, all of the above initiatives emerged from below, and involve relatively small sections of the labour movement. Shamefully, the leaders of the main trade unions have been conspicuously absent in the Palestine solidarity struggle, preventing the workers might from being brought to bear against Israels ethnic cleansing in Gaza. In November, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) denounced a labor export agreement signed between the Modi government and Israel, to transfer up to 100,000 Indian workers to Israel. However, they took no concrete action to oppose it, nor have the national leaders said anything about the dockworkers boycott, even though the WTWFI is affiliated with CITU. Indias main trade union confederations, including the CITU, called a national day-long strike against Modis reactionary labour law on 16 February, just two days after the dockworkers took their stand, involving 200 million people! The millions on the streets last week represent the real forces of the Indian working class, who could easily have been linked up with the dockworkers to strike blows against the reactionary Modi government that has assisted the bloodbath in Gaza, at the same time as it drains the blood of Indian workers and the poor. The two struggles are one and the same, and should be consciously linked. Blood money India and Israel have a long history of trading arms. The Adani Group, led by Modis long-standing partner in crime, Gautam Adani, is in a joint venture with Israels Elbit systems to manufacture and export Hermes 900 missiles from India to Israel for use against the Palestinians. In terms of imports, Israel was the third largest arms supplier to India from 2016 to 2020 and this is only expected to increase in the next five years. Modis government took two key Israeli arms companies Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd. off of its blacklist in April 2018. They had not previously been blacklisted in response to Israels crimes against the Palestinians, but for alleged corruption, which is a real joke coming from the grift-ridden Modi government. This allowed Aerospace Industries to sell India $2 billion worth of missiles. India and Israel have a long history of trading arms / Image: eutrophicationhypoxia, Flickr Modi also has interests in the region, with the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) programme that aims to compete with Chinas Belt and Road Initiative for influence in the area. The successful expansion of Indias sphere of influence is dependent on staying in Israels good books, as its port in Haifa would be used to connect southern and western Europe to the Middle East. Moreover, Modi and his gang of Hindu nationalists are using Israels slaughter of the Palestinians as an opportunity to ratchet up anti-Muslim sectarianism. Modi was one of the first world leaders to state solidarity with Israel after 7 October and denounce terrorism; and India abstained on a UN resolution for a truce in November. In the months since, BJP-affiliated news and social media networks have been spewing bile about Islamic terror. Instead of attempting to appeal to the goodwill and moral conscience of Modi and his Hindutva cabal, workers like those in the WTWFI are taking the initiative to mobilise their power as a class. They are expressing the internationalist spirit that binds workers in all countries, setting an example, and also demonstrating the global, collective power the workers have in their possession. Our class is responsible for everything that makes society function. Not a wheel turns nor a lightbulb shines without the kind permission of the working class. With fighting leadership, workers everywhere could bring society grinding to a halt, and prevent their imperialist leaders from facilitating the IDFs murderous actions in Gaza. In this boycott, we see a small glimpse of this potential. Spread the action Alongside the WTWFI, there are three other national federations of port and dock workers that organise workers in Indias ports. As long as this action is pursued by only one section of the workers, the bosses can make use of other sections of the workforce to ship arms. Therefore, it is necessary to spread this initiative to the workers in the other federations. The Indian dockers can look to the example of workers at the Rolls-Royce factory in East Kilbride in the 1970s, who for five years refused to work on fighter jets intended for Pinochets regime in Chile. Dockworkers and engineers in other cities were inspired to participate in the workers boycott, and unemployed sailors even refused work on ships going to Chile. Spreading the dockworkers struggle requires a bold campaign across all of Indias ports, with the workers leafleting, agitating and picketing to explain why their fellow dockers should take part. This would be a beacon of inspiration to the masses around the world, who are marching in solidarity with Palestine, but lack a militant leadership showing the way forward. Ultimately, the liberation of the Palestinian people demands an end to the rotten capitalist, imperialist system that is drowning the Middle East in blood. Workers and youth around the globe must follow the example of these courageous layers of workers, in India and elsewhere, who are already taking a stand. We need a global campaign of strikes and workers embargoes at ports, factories and other workplaces critical to Israels war on Gaza. Beyond that, we must bring down the system that perpetually keeps the Palestinians and oppressed people of the world enslaved. The task of communists everywhere is to build revolutionary communist parties that can connect with the most advanced layers of workers and youth, and fight their own ruling classes, who aid and abet Israeli terror in Gaza. Intifada until victory! Revolution until victory! What is WordPress? WordPress powers businesses all over the world. It is one of the most popular website building platforms, and it allows you to create a website or blog from scratch or improve an existing website. There are many notable brands, celebrities and companies that use it too. This article discusses what WordPress is and how it can benefit your business. By the end of this post, you should definitely know the answer to the question, What is WordPress? What is a WordPress Website? If you ever did an internet search for What is WordPress? youd likely find out more than 1 in 4 websites use the website platform to power their own website (by the way, the term WordPress is searched for nearly 3 million times a month!). Thats all well and good, but it doesnt really answer the question, What is WordPress? right? Simply put, WordPress is a content management system (CMS) created in 2003 by WordPress experts Matt Mullenweg and Mike Little. The duo designed it as a tool to make it easy for people without any coding experience to create a website or blog from scratch. It is a free, open-source software system licensed under GPLv2 (or later), meaning any user can use, modify or contribute to its codebase. In addition, WordPresss open-source software system has end-to-end encryption that can be used on your own web server or by a hosting company. Its functionality and ease of use have resulted in a large community of WordPress users and WordPress developers who have created and utilized themes, plugins, and other tools to quickly and easily build anything from huge online stores to a simple blog. 10 Useful WordPress Statistics If you need further help convincing yourselves or others that WordPress is the best CMS system for your business, be sure to check out the following WordPress statistics: It is currently the most popular content management system on the web. People visit WordPress more than the social media giant Twitter, which has a whopping 156 million unique visitors a month. With a WordPress theme-builder like seedprod, even users who arent very technically skilled can easily create a custom WordPress theme from scratch. Over 400 million people visit a WordPress website each month. 661 WordPress sites and nearly 300 new WooCommerce stores appear on average each day. There are over 59,000 free plugins available in the WordPress plugin directory. Over 187 countries have at least one active WordPress installation. The WordPress.org website receives over two billion page views per month. The WordPress app has been downloaded over two million times. Out of 1.3 billion websites on the web, more than 455 million sites use WordPress to power their own website. What is WordPress used for? The question closely following What is WordPress? is probably Why do I need to use a WordPress website for my business, anyway, and is WordPress good for small business websites? Firstly, when you install WordPress and set everything up, youll find that it can be used for developing anything from a small business site to an eCommerce storefront and blog. In fact, some of the most popular websites in the world are powered by WordPress, including Samsung, Forbes, The Guardian and the New York Times. Additionally, small business sites like ours also use WordPress. Secondly, WordPress has many versatile features, and they are coming up with more unique features each day. But versatility isnt the only thing that makes WordPress so popular; it also has a number of features that make it an ideal platform for businesses. Here are just a few examples of what you can do with the king of content management systems: Create website content such as custom pages and posts. Easily integrate it with social media platforms. Help your site rank higher in search engine results through SEO capabilities. Track your websites traffic and performance with analytics tools. Design a website or blog from scratch. Improve an existing website by adding WordPress functionality. Develop membership sites, chatrooms, directories, wikis, galleries and online courses. Support all media types, such as audio, video, images and information-related data. How does WordPress Work? Now that you know a little more about what WordPress is lets take a look at how it works. The working process of WordPress software is a comprehensive procedure that works by combining some core files, a database, files that you add or install, and a dashboard to let you manage the whole thing. There are also many components such as themes, plugins and widgets that work together to give your website the look and functionality you desire. WordPress core Installing core files is the first procedure in WordPress you will do. When you install WordPress (the WordPress core), you get access to two websites: the WordPress dashboard and your website. The WordPress dashboard is where you manage your websiteadd posts and pages, change settings, install plugins and themes, etc. The database This place is where all your data and website files are stored. If you are using manual WordPress, you need to install the database. If you are using an auto-installer, it will automatically do the installation process. Extra files Extra files are in the forms of plugins, themes and uploads for WordPress, and they help to make your website or blog look unique by allowing you to customize aspects. WordPress dashboard or admin screen To create a website or blog with WordPress, you first need to install it on a web server. You can do this yourself by downloading the software and installing it on your own web server, or you can have a hosting company do it for you. Once WordPress is installed, you can log in to the WordPress dashboard and start creating content. You can add posts and pages, change settings, install plugins and themes, etc. Publishing When youre ready to launch your website or blog, you simply need to publish it by clicking on the Publish button in the WordPress dashboard. After that, your website will be live and accessible to the world. You can also use the WordPress dashboard to track your websites traffic and performance and see how your visitors are accessing your content. Customization, themes and plugins Themes control the appearance of your site; plugins add features and widgets put all the pieces together. When you install WordPress, it comes with a core set of themes and plugins that provide the basic structure for your website. You can then install additional themes and plugins from the WordPress.org plugin directory or other sources to add features like a blog, contact form, social media integration, and more. You can also customize your sites appearance by editing the CSS code for your theme or using child themes to make changes without affecting the original code. And if you need help with any of this, there are plenty of WordPress tutorials and support forums to help you out. Summary Component Description WordPress Core Initial files you install. Grants access to the WordPress dashboard (for site management) and your actual website. Database Storage for all website data and files. Manual WordPress requires manual installation, while auto-installs handle this automatically. Extra Files (Plugins, Themes) Customization tools to give a unique look to the site. They can be plugins, themes, or uploads. WordPress Dashboard Once WordPress is installed on a server, you can manage content through the dashboard by adding posts/pages, changing settings, and more. Publishing Launch your website/blog by clicking the "Publish" button in the dashboard. This action makes your site live to the world. Customization, Themes, Plugins Themes dictate the site's look; plugins add features; widgets integrate various elements. WordPress comes with a basic structure, but additional features can be added from various sources. WordPress.org Vs. WordPress.com There are two versions of WordPress: WordPress.org and WordPress.com. WordPress.org is the self-hosted version of WordPress that you install on your own web server, while WordPress.com is a hosted version where all the hosting and maintenance is taken care of for you. Why You Should Consider WordPress for Your Business WordPress.com allows you to set up your blog for free, but it has several disadvantages. For instance, you can only create a site under a subdomain, and you cant remove the ads. Here are a few other ways the two stack up against one another. Ease of Use WordPress.org is a little more difficult to use than WordPress.com, as you need to install it on your own web server and manage all the aspects of your website yourself. With WordPress.com, everything is taken care of for you, and getting started is fairly straightforward. WordPress themes WordPress themes make your website look brilliant, and WordPress.org has full WordPress theme support where you can use custom commercial themes and all the other free themes. The .org version of WordPress also lets you use premium WordPress themes to customize, modify or do pretty much anything you like with your website. WordPress.com doesnt let you customize themes and only has limited theme support where you are limited to the WordPress themes that exist in their repository. WordPress plugins You will likely need WordPress plugins, and the WordPress.org plugin repository is enormous and has a plugin for just about anything you can imagine. In addition, you can find all types of WordPress pluginsfrom social media to security plugins. Unfortunely, the WordPress.com plugin library only has about 100 free WordPress plugins, which might not be enough for your needs. Domain name Your domain name, or your websites URL, is what takes your visitors to your website. With WordPress.org, you have full control over your domain name and can use any domain you want. WordPress.com limits you to the .wordpress.com subdomain unless you upgrade to a paid plan that gives you a custom domain name. Web hosting account The cost of hosting for your WordPress website is included in the price when you install WordPress.org on your web server. However, WordPress.org does charge a monthly fee for web hosting, which starts at an estimated $46-$100/yr. WordPress.com is free for up to 3GB of storage space, but you have to deal with their ads splashed across your pages. That might not be a big deal for a personal blog, but it might be a deal-breaker for a small business trying to establish its brand. eCommerce With WordPress.org, you can install any eCommerce plugin you want and create an eCommerce site, giving you a full-blown online store. On the other hand, with WordPress.com, you are limited to the basic Shopify eCommerce platform that has some restrictions on what you can sell. Monetization You can monetize your website with WordPress.org by adding ads, selling products or accepting donations. Meanwhile, you cannot monetize your site on WordPress.com without upgrading to a paid plan that gives you more features. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) This feature is essential since it helps your business site to reach the top Google rank in search results. WordPress.org comes with all the SEO features you need to optimize your website for search engines. With free WordPress.com, you dont have much control over your website SEO since you cant install the required plugins. Business plan users can install 3rd-party SEO plugins for about $300/yr. Help and support from the WordPress community WordPress.org has a support community with millions of users who are happy to help you out with any issue you might have. You can also get WordPress assistance through the help and support feature. The WordPress Help Team has helped many entrepreneurs build their business websites and do other tasks. That being said, the .com version of WordPress has much less support and is not as active in the support forums. Free software WordPress.com is free and has many features available if you are looking for an easy way to get started. If you want to use WordPress for your small business, the .org version is probably the best option and will cost anywhere from $46 to $100/year. Of course, it isnt free, but you get more features and control of your WordPress websites. Google Analytics integration Google Analytics helps you increase your website traffic and also helps convert visitors into leads. WordPress.org offers powerful Google Analytics tracking built-in so you can see how your website is performing and where your visitors are coming from. In contrast, WordPress.com does not offer this feature. Website security There are different types of website security in WordPress, such as backdoors, pharma hacks, malicious redirects, denial of service and many more. WordPress.org gives you the ability to install a good security plugin and harden the security of your WordPress site with only a few clicks. WordPress.com doesnt give you this feature. WordPress site customization WordPress.org WordPress.org is the go-to choice for users seeking a more customized digital presence. This platform grants extensive freedom, allowing for profound modifications in website design and functionality. One of the highlights of WordPress.org is its flexibility to allow direct CSS edits, which means webmasters can tweak the visual appearance down to the smallest detail. Additionally, for those wanting a more sustainable and advanced customization without affecting the primary theme, creating child themes is a beneficial option. A child theme inherits the features and appearance of its parent theme but allows for modifications without affecting the original theme, making it an invaluable tool for developers and designers. WordPress.com: In contrast, WordPress.com is more restrictive when it comes to customization. Users are limited to basic theme alterations, which means direct modifications to CSS or the creation of child themes are off the table. While its simpler and more user-friendly, especially for beginners, those with a distinct vision for their website might find it limiting. This platform is ideal for individuals who prefer ready-to-use templates without the intricacies of intricate design modifications. Mobile-Friendly features Both WordPress.org and WordPress.com are mobile-friendly, meaning they can be used on a PC, tablet or mobile phone. However, WordPress.org has more features that make it easier for your website to look good on mobiles devices and screen sizes. Speed WordPress.org is faster than WordPress.com because you are in control of all the aspects of your website and can optimize it for speed. Sowhich version of WordPress should you choose? If you want more control over your WordPress website and dont mind managing the technical aspects yourself, then WordPress.org is the better option. If youre looking for an easy way to get started with a blog or dont need all the features that WordPress.org offers, then WordPress.com is a good choice. Also importantly, if youre looking for a business-grade WordPress site, its probably going to be best to go with WordPress.org rather than WordPress.com. Business Growth with WordPress: Capabilities and Strategies WordPress is not just a platform for creating websites; its a comprehensive ecosystem that can significantly enhance business growth and online presence. Here are some new sections that can add value to the article on What is WordPress? and how it can benefit businesses further: WordPress for E-commerce Expansion WordPress, coupled with WooCommerce, offers a robust solution for businesses looking to enter or expand in the e-commerce space. WooCommerce is a powerful WordPress plugin that transforms a website into a fully functional online store. With features such as product listings, a shopping cart, checkout processes, and secure payment gateways, WordPress and WooCommerce together provide a seamless shopping experience for users. Leveraging WordPress for SEO One of the key strengths of WordPress is its SEO-friendly nature. With plugins like Yoast SEO, businesses can easily optimize their content for search engines right from the WordPress dashboard. This includes editing meta tags, generating sitemaps, and ensuring content readability all essential factors for improving search engine rankings and attracting more organic traffic. WordPress and Mobile Optimization With the increasing prevalence of mobile internet usage, having a mobile-optimized website is crucial. WordPress themes are responsive by default, meaning they automatically adjust to the screen size of various devices, ensuring your site looks great and functions well on desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This responsiveness not only enhances user experience but also contributes positively to SEO. WordPress Customization and Flexibility WordPress offers unparalleled customization through thousands of themes and plugins, allowing businesses to tailor their sites to their exact needs and branding. From custom contact forms and appointment booking systems to integrated social media feeds and customer testimonials, the possibilities with WordPress are virtually limitless. This flexibility enables businesses to evolve their websites as they grow, without the need for a complete overhaul. WordPress Community and Support The vast WordPress community is one of its greatest assets. From forums and blogs to WordCamps and meetups, the community offers extensive support, resources, and networking opportunities. Whether youre looking for advice on theme customization, plugin recommendations, or troubleshooting technical issues, theres always someone willing to help. WordPress for Content Marketing Content is king in the digital marketing world, and WordPress is the crown jewel for content management. Its intuitive editor, Gutenberg, allows for easy creation and formatting of content, enabling businesses to implement a robust content marketing strategy. With features like scheduling posts, categorizing content, and tagging for SEO, WordPress makes it simple to manage a dynamic content calendar. WordPress Security Measures While WordPress is a secure platform, the vast array of themes and plugins can introduce vulnerabilities if not properly managed. However, WordPress continuously updates its software to patch security flaws, and there are numerous security plugins available to safeguard your site further. Regular updates, secure hosting, and best practices in password management can ensure your WordPress site remains safe from threats. Integrating WordPress with Marketing Tools WordPress seamlessly integrates with a plethora of marketing tools and platforms, from email marketing services like Mailchimp to CRM systems like Salesforce. This integration capability enables businesses to streamline their marketing efforts, automate workflows, and measure the effectiveness of their campaigns directly from their WordPress dashboard. How to Start Using WordPress Installing WordPress for your blog or any business is an easy task. Compared to other website builders, the installation of WordPress is user-friendly and can be done faster. The following illustrates the steps for installing WordPress: Step 1: Download and open the WordPress software Download and open the WordPress software Step 2: Establish a WordPress database on your web application and a MySQL user with full access and modification capabilities. Establish a WordPress database on your web application and a MySQL user with full access and modification capabilities. Step 3: Locate and change wp-config-sample.php to wp-config.php, then modify the document to include your database information. Locate and change wp-config-sample.php to wp-config.php, then modify the document to include your database information. Step 4: Upload the WordPress files to your web servers preferred location Upload the WordPress files to your web servers preferred location Step 5: Access the URL in a web browser to run the WordPress installation script. This should have been the location in which the WordPress files were published. If you are using WordPress.com, you can install almost any WordPress plugin and launch a custom domain for your business site. Access the URL in a web browser to run the WordPress installation script. This should have been the location in which the WordPress files were published. If you are using WordPress.com, you can install almost any WordPress plugin and launch a custom domain for your business site. Step 6: At this step, you can use WordPress. Here, you begin hosting your site, and if you are the WordPress editor, you can start publishing things like WordPress posts and WordPress pages. At this step, you can use WordPress. Here, you begin hosting your site, and if you are the WordPress editor, you can start publishing things like WordPress posts and WordPress pages. Step 7: WordPress currently comes with three themes. The current default theme is named Twenty Twenty-One, and thats the first theme you see after logging into your website platform. You can change this to any other theme by going to Appearance > Themes or downloading a new one from the WordPress.org Theme Directory WordPress Tips The following tips and ideas can help you create a WordPress website: Always make sure to decrease your image size to speed up your website. Dont forget to insert title tags and ALT texts. There will be some posts that you dont want ads to appear between them. Therefore, youll need to hide ads for individual posts. Always edit your permalinks. Add a footer widget to your blog site or business site. Dont forget to use an SEO plugin. WordPress offers a powerful, flexible, and scalable solution for businesses looking to establish or enhance their online presence. Its ease of use, coupled with extensive customization options and a supportive community, makes it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. By leveraging WordPresss capabilities, businesses can create engaging, SEO-friendly, and secure websites that drive growth and success in the digital age. Is WordPress Good for Beginners? Yes, its surprisingly easy to use for such a powerful website builder. And although there is a little bit of work to installing and publishing your WordPress website, it is about as simple as using Microsoft Word once you get everything going. In brief, whether you are a beginner or an expert, its user-friendly right from the start to use WordPress. What are the Disadvantages of WordPress? One of the major disadvantages of WordPress is that more plugins are required for additional features. Also, WordPress websites can go down for no apparent reason and in a way that is difficult to troubleshoot. If you dont manage your website correctly, it can also tend to be slow and full of spam. Finally, the codebase is not as intuitive as it could be, so some developers find it difficult to work with WordPress compared to other frameworks. And if these issues are a deal-breaker, you can look at the best WordPress alternatives to get your site underway. What Type of Website is WordPress Good For? The following are the types of websites where WordPress is good to use: A blog Ecommerce websites Business website Portfolio website Online community Multilingual websites Frequently asked questions: Is WordPress a web server? Yes, and its a web server that handles the majority of high-traffic sites and runs the show. Thats why its the webserver of choice for many high-end hosting providers and leading WordPress companies. Can I install WordPress on my personal computer? Yes, you can install WordPress on a PC. What language is WordPress written in? WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) software written in the PHP language associated with a MySQL or MariaDB database. Are multilingual sites allowed in WordPress? Yes, multilingual sites are allowed in WordPress. For example, the popular blogging tool is multilingual, meaning it can be used in different languages. It is also available in 196 languages. Workspace as a Service, or WaaS for short, is a type of virtual desktop that gives employees access to their office applications and data from anywhere at any time regardless of geography using the device of their choice (i.e., desktop computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones). What is Workspace as a Service? What is Workspace as a Service? It represents the latest step in the evolution of office applications from on-premise (i.e., servers, workstations, software) to cloud-based as a service solutions. WaaS platforms come with everything thats needed for a person to take care of office-related tasks. That includes things like anti-virus software, backup capabilities, productivity apps such as Office 365, accounting software and much more. (CloudJumper, a WaaS provider, has more than 2,200 applications in its solution, for example.) WaaS is especially ideal for a small business that cant afford the internal resources and infrastructure to manage IT services on their own. According to Max Pruger, chief sales officer at CloudJumper, who spoke with Small Business Trends via telephone, the technology is particularly attractive to companies that have elastic demand for labor or that use a remote workforce. Accounting firms, for example, balloon in size during tax season hiring freelancers, many of who work remotely, he said. Firms shrink down to normal size afterwards, and we can turn off access to these remote staff immediately. What are the Business Benefits to Using WaaS? The number of benefits associated with WaaS use is impressive and includes: Increased Employee Productivity Enhanced Work-life Balance Consistency of Environment Lowered Cost BYOD Support Eliminated IT Hassles Better Security Simplified File Storage Increased Employee Productivity WaaS solutions enable employees to be more productive and capable of accessing critical applications and data regardless of their geographic location. Enhanced Work-life Balance Employees can work from home periodically or when the need arises (to take care of a sick child for instance) without suffering from inferior technology. WaaS providers keep software updated, and the user experience is the same. Consistency of Environment Each employee has access to the same applications as everyone else, whether they are new or have been with the company 20 years, Pruger said. Lowered Cost The cost to support devices from the end user perspective is almost nil, Pruger said. WaaS providers do all the management on the backend and virtual desktops dont build up as much junk as the physical machine. He added that companies should never have to buy a server again, only to have it depreciate in 3-5 years year or become obsolete even sooner. Most companies want to move from capital expenditure to operational expenditure, he said, and use of WaaS supports that goal. Now companies have predictable, fixed IT expenses per employee. BYOD Support WaaS services complement corporate strategies for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), an approach that is heavily in demand by employees, especially Millennials. Employees can bring any device they want because all its going to be is a conduit to their desktop in the cloud, Pruger said. He mentioned that CloudJumper clients affected by the recent floods in Texas benefited from BYOD and remote access. Thanks to WaaS, employees who were unable to get to their offices could work from home using their computers, he said. Eliminated IT Hassles WaaS brings all the companys desktops to the cloud, eliminating IT hassles. This includes: Cloud storage; Backup and offsite replication; Dedicated business servers; MS Office 365 support; 24/7 Support. WaaS offloads all software application and network management so IT can focus on deploying new technologies and systems. Better Security WaaS solutions lock down the desktop, storing data in state-of-the-art, SSAE 16 certified Tier 4 data centers and supports disaster recovery, backups on daily and weekly intervals and built-in protection from hackers and viruses. Simplified File Storage No longer will businesses be faced with multiple file servers housed in disparate locations, making it difficult to share data or applications. WaaS houses everything in one place. Benefits of Using WaaS Description Increased Employee Productivity WaaS solutions boost employee productivity by granting access to critical applications and data from any location, transcending geographical limitations. Enhanced Work-life Balance Employees can achieve a better work-life balance by working from home when necessary, without compromising technology quality. WaaS providers ensure consistent software updates and user experiences. Consistency of Environment WaaS guarantees that all employees, regardless of their tenure, have access to the same set of applications, fostering a uniform work environment that facilitates collaboration. Lowered Cost WaaS reduces the cost of supporting end-user devices significantly. Backend management by WaaS providers minimizes the accumulation of unnecessary data and eliminates the need to invest in servers that quickly depreciate. BYOD Support WaaS complements Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategies, enabling employees to use their preferred devices as conduits to access their desktops in the cloud. Eliminated IT Hassles WaaS relocates all company desktops to the cloud, eliminating IT hassles and responsibilities. This includes cloud storage, backup, offsite replication, dedicated business servers, MS Office 365 support, and 24/7 support. Better Security WaaS solutions enhance data security by locking down desktops, storing data in secure Tier 4 data centers, and providing robust disaster recovery, daily and weekly backups, and protection against hackers and viruses. Simplified File Storage WaaS consolidates file storage in one centralized location, eliminating the complexity of managing multiple file servers in disparate locations. This promotes streamlined data sharing and accessibility. How Does WaaS Work? From an employee standpoint, use of WaaS is straightforward. Employees log into the WaaS providers service from their device using a remote desktop client and are presented with a virtual desktop environment that looks and works just like their computer at the office. For service providers, configuring WaaS isnt complicated and takes as little as a few minutes per workstation or device. Cost to Use WaaS Although prices vary, Pruger said that small businesses could expect to pay, on average, $100 $150 per month per employee from the MSP. Typically, that also includes management of the physical devices. Once they use the virtual workspace, their costs for management of the physical machine drops to almost nothing, Pruger said. Also, because the price for WaaS solutions is so low, MSPs can scale their business without having to dramatically increase resource allocations to hire new employees. And they dont have to be experts in all of the apps available within the WaaS environment either. Growth of WaaS Growth in the use of WaaS is on the rise. Transparency Market Research (TMR), a market research and consulting firm, stated in a recent report that the global WaaS market will expand at a high 12.10 percent CAGR over the period between 2015 and 2022. TMR expects expansion in the education and health care sectors to be even higher, at 13 percent and 12.9 percent respectively. The rising use of industry-specific virtualized applications in these industries will drive the demand for WaaS solutions, the report said. TMR also indicated that the market, which had a valuation of $7.4 billion (USD) in 2014, is expected to rise to $18.3 billion by 2022. How Do I Get Started Using WaaS? Several WaaS providers dot the landscape, though none predominate. Most do not work directly with the end user, however, but partner with managed services providers who perform that service. Its best to contact an MSP in your area. If none exist or dont offer WaaS solutions, then call one of the companies below. Perhaps they can direct you to an MSP who can help. Artisan Infrastructure; CloudJumper; IndependenceIT; RapidScale; The Sixth Flag; EaseTechnologies, Inc. IT services, MSP, telecom or ISVs can also contact these firms to learn more about the benefits of offering white-label WaaS solutions to their clients. CloudJumper, in particular, is actively recruiting managed service providers to either resell or white-label a WaaS environment. The Shaping of Modern Workspaces with WaaS Workspace as a Service (WaaS) is revolutionizing the way businesses operate in an increasingly digital world. Here, we delve into the dynamic landscape of WaaS and its transformative impact: Defining WaaS: Workspace as a Service (WaaS) is a virtual desktop solution that liberates employees, granting them access to office applications and data from any device, anywhere. This flexibility transcends geographical limitations, enabling users to choose between desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Workspace as a Service (WaaS) is a virtual desktop solution that liberates employees, granting them access to office applications and data from any device, anywhere. This flexibility transcends geographical limitations, enabling users to choose between desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Cloud-Powered Transition: WaaS marks the pinnacle of office application evolution, transitioning from on-premise setups to cloud-based as a service solutions. This migration empowers organizations with scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. WaaS marks the pinnacle of office application evolution, transitioning from on-premise setups to cloud-based as a service solutions. This migration empowers organizations with scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. Comprehensive WaaS Ecosystem: WaaS platforms offer comprehensive toolsets, encompassing antivirus software, backup solutions, productivity suites like Office 365, accounting software, and a rich repository of over 2,200 applications in the case of CloudJumper. WaaS platforms offer comprehensive toolsets, encompassing antivirus software, backup solutions, productivity suites like Office 365, accounting software, and a rich repository of over 2,200 applications in the case of CloudJumper. Small Business Advantage: WaaS is a lifeline for small businesses lacking the internal resources and infrastructure to manage IT services independently. It offers enterprise-level technology without the complexity and costs. WaaS is a lifeline for small businesses lacking the internal resources and infrastructure to manage IT services independently. It offers enterprise-level technology without the complexity and costs. Flexibility for Dynamic Labor Needs: WaaS accommodates businesses with fluctuating labor demands and remote workforces. For instance, accounting firms can scale up during tax season with freelancers working remotely, all seamlessly supported by WaaS. Aspect of WaaS Description Defining WaaS Workspace as a Service (WaaS) provides employees with access to office applications and data from any device, transcending geographical boundaries. It caters to desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, offering unprecedented flexibility. Cloud-Powered Transition WaaS represents the evolution of office applications from traditional on-premise setups to cloud-based "as a service" solutions. This transition unlocks scalability, accessibility, and cost-efficiency, redefining how organizations operate in a digital era. Comprehensive WaaS Ecosystem WaaS platforms offer a comprehensive ecosystem, including antivirus software, backup solutions, productivity suites like Office 365, accounting software, and a vast library of over 2,200 applications, exemplified by CloudJumper. Small Business Advantage Small businesses benefit immensely from WaaS, gaining access to enterprise-level technology without the need for extensive internal resources and infrastructure. This affordability and simplicity level the playing field for smaller enterprises. Flexibility for Dynamic Labor WaaS's flexibility suits businesses with dynamic labor needs, such as accounting firms that expand their workforce during peak tax seasons, utilizing remote freelancers. This adaptability supports efficient scaling and remote work arrangements. The Soaring Growth of WaaS WaaS adoption is soaring: Transparency Market Research (TMR) anticipates a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.10% in the global WaaS market from 2015 to 2022. Sectors like education and healthcare are poised for even more remarkable growth, with projected CAGRs of 13% and 12.9%, respectively. Valued at $7.4 billion (USD) in 2014, the market is projected to surge to $18.3 billion by 2022. Integration with Emerging Technologies Workspace as a Service (WaaS) is rapidly evolving, embracing emerging technologies to deliver more intelligent, efficient, and responsive virtual workspaces. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront, automating routine tasks and providing predictive analytics to optimize IT management. This integration allows for adaptive resource allocation, ensuring that virtual desktop environments are always at peak performance without manual intervention. Furthermore, the Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming integral to WaaS environments, enabling seamless interaction between virtual workspaces and physical devices. This convergence enhances user experience, offering personalized workspace settings that adjust to individual preferences and work habits. By leveraging these technologies, WaaS providers are crafting future-proof platforms that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future workspace needs. Cybersecurity on WaaS platforms In todays digital age, cybersecurity is a paramount concern for businesses transitioning to virtual workspaces. WaaS providers have responded by incorporating advanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity. Next-generation firewalls and intrusion detection systems are now standard, offering robust defense mechanisms against external threats. AI-driven threat intelligence further bolsters security, enabling real-time monitoring and proactive threat hunting to identify and neutralize potential risks before they can cause harm. Additionally, WaaS platforms are designed with built-in compliance features, supporting businesses in adhering to stringent data protection regulations such as GDPR and CCPA. Data encryption, both at rest and in transit, ensures that all information within the virtual workspace is secure from unauthorized access, making WaaS a reliable choice for businesses prioritizing cybersecurity. Enhanced Collaboration Tools Collaboration is the lifeblood of modern businesses, and WaaS platforms are enhancing their offerings with advanced collaboration tools to support dynamic team environments. Real-time communication features, such as video conferencing and instant messaging, are integrated directly into virtual workspaces, facilitating seamless interaction among team members regardless of their physical locations. Project management tools and file-sharing capabilities are also embedded within WaaS environments, enabling teams to collaborate on projects efficiently, track progress, and share resources without leaving their virtual desktop. Moreover, WaaS providers are forming strategic partnerships with leading collaboration platforms, offering users a unified experience that combines the flexibility of virtual desktops with the power of comprehensive collaboration suites. This holistic approach to collaboration within WaaS not only boosts productivity but also enhances team cohesion, driving innovation and success in the digital workplace. Navigating WaaS in Modern Workspaces Workspace as a Service (WaaS) continues to redefine the workplace, offering flexibility and efficiency. Here, we explore further aspects of WaaS and its impact on the modern business ecosystem: Scalability for Growing Businesses: WaaS is a boon for expanding businesses, as it adapts effortlessly to shifting workforce demands. Whether your organization is onboarding new employees or downsizing after peak seasons, WaaS scales to meet your needs without major infrastructure overhauls. WaaS is a boon for expanding businesses, as it adapts effortlessly to shifting workforce demands. Whether your organization is onboarding new employees or downsizing after peak seasons, WaaS scales to meet your needs without major infrastructure overhauls. Global Accessibility: In our interconnected world, WaaS transcends geographical boundaries. Employees worldwide can access their virtual workspaces with ease, fostering global collaboration and eliminating geographical constraints. In our interconnected world, WaaS transcends geographical boundaries. Employees worldwide can access their virtual workspaces with ease, fostering global collaboration and eliminating geographical constraints. Resource Allocation Efficiency: WaaS optimizes resource allocation by minimizing the need for on-site IT hardware and personnel. Companies can direct their resources toward strategic initiatives and innovation rather than routine maintenance. WaaS optimizes resource allocation by minimizing the need for on-site IT hardware and personnel. Companies can direct their resources toward strategic initiatives and innovation rather than routine maintenance. Adaptive Business Models: Businesses with varying labor requirements throughout the year, such as tax preparation firms, find WaaS indispensable. It enables swift adaptation to workforce fluctuations, ensuring operational efficiency during busy and lean periods. WaaS: A Future-Proof Approach to Modern Work Environments Workspace as a Service (WaaS) stands at the forefront of modern work environments, providing a glimpse into the future of work. As we delve deeper into the realm of WaaS, we uncover additional facets that illuminate its transformative potential: By dint of huge effort, I managed to make up for my bad behaviour - with everyone but the ball organiser, that is. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Soon after arriving at our first ball (ples, from plesat, to enjoy oneself) together in Slovakia, my wife and I found ourselves in a crush around the wine bar (pri vinovom pulte). We clutched our tiny tester glasses of riesling above the shoulders of the throng and grimaced at familiar faces in the crowd. I had a cigarette going, but as there were neither ashtrays provided nor any way of reaching one had I wanted, I surreptitiously ground the butt (spak, ohorok) out on the polished floor - just as the organiser of the gathering squeezed by. "No jasne, jasne" he said with cutting irony (but of course, of course), indicating disgust with my boorish (sedlacke) behaviour. Not the best start to a social evening (spolocensky vecer), but then I've never been good at these things. I own only one suit (oblek) that still fits me, and refuse to buy a dinner jacket (smoking) for the very good reason that I won't wear it enough to justify the expense. And I look like a fraud in a bow-tie (motylik, lit. butterfly). I also have a penchant for spilling (obliat) vino on guests and food (jedlo) on myself. I don't dance (tancovat) and I'm rotten at making conversation (udrziavat konverzaciu). Move aims to protect pedestrians and prevent pavement damage. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share New regulations on car entry to the historic centre of Bratislava are to be brought in as authorities look to ensure pedestrian safety and limit potential damages to pavements in the area. The Old Town borough plans to launch a new intelligent entrance management system in the summer with stricter regulations on auto traffic and stays in the very centre of the city. The current system is not automated and cannot handle the onslaught of the morning rush hour, Veronika Gubkova, spokesperson for the Old Town mayors office, told the TASR newswire. It also does not provide us with sufficient data needed to adjust rules of entry and safety in the pedestrian zone. Cars are not generally permitted in the very historical centre of Bratislava, although residents and companies can apply, for a fee, to local authorities for a permit to drive in the area. Once approved, the vehicles registration number is entered into a system shared with the metropolitan police, with a camera system used to manually recognise the cars number plates controlling entry at three designated points on Zidovska and Klobucnicka Streets and Hviezdoslavovo Square. The new system will be automated and control traffic lights, number plate recognition cameras, view cameras, hydraulically extend bollards and LED information boards. Authorities will also provide an intuitive web interface, which can be used on for mobiles, for registration, applications for permits can still be made in person at the Citizens Service Centre. A joint statement by editors-in-chief. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Six years ago, our colleague Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova were murdered. He was killed because he wrote about the corruption and fraud committed by people who had protection from the state led by Robert Fico. The journalist's murder shook all of society. People understood that an attack on a journalist is an attack on everyone. Robert Fico had to leave and it seemed that his era was over. Today he is back and attacking journalists again. In the six years since the murder, he hasn't learned his lesson. Quite the opposite. He's hardening his position towards journalists. He describes critical journalists as enemies of the state. He refuses to answer their questions and prefers disinformation circles. He wants to build a propaganda empire, similar to the one Viktor Orban built. He is once again making targets of journalists and turning the anger of his voters on them. Fico did not order the murder of Jan Kuciak, but he is politically responsible for the environment in which someone thought that they could get away with murdering a journalist; that people like Marian Kocner enjoyed immunity and could rob, blackmail, bribe, threaten and eventually probably order a murder. This would not have been possible without Fico's system of mafia rule. Today, Fico is strengthening protection for his people, he wants to control the police, influence the prosecutor's office and the courts. His new Penal Code downplays corruption, harms victims and grants amnesties to Fico's people. We are journalists and our job is not to fight politicians. But we have to write about their failures, lies and crimes. This is not a sign of hostility. This is our service to the public, the effort to find the truth and the commitment we also have towards Jan Kuciak, Martina Kusnirova and their families. Six years have passed since the murders, but it seems like yesterday. We will never back down. We will never be silent. Beata Balogova, SME Peter Bardy. Aktuality.sk Matus Kostolny, Dennik N Lukas Diko, ICJK Stefan Hrib, tyzden Filip Minich, Refresher Marcela Simkova, Hospodarske noviny Martin Dargaj, SITA Miroslava Kernova, O mediach Jaroslav Vrabel, Korzar Lucia Oksova, Forbes Peter Dlhopolec, The Slovak Spectator Lucia Yar, Euractiv Radoslav Blazek, MY Zoltan Szalay, Napunk Igor Gressner, Sport Csaba Nyerges, Uj Szo Smer keeps up attacks on journalists. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share video //www.youtube.com/embed/KqBS4BrpwXo Six years have passed since the murders of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova, who were killed on February 21 at their home in Velka Maca, western Slovakia. However, journalists in Slovakia continue to face attacks from politicians. "Even after all this time, threats to journalists haven't stopped, we see various attacks on civil society, we hear words about ruling with a firm hand," said President Zuzana Caputova on Wednesday. For instance, TV personality and influencer Veronika Cifrova Ostrihonova was called 'a Progresivne Slovensko agent' by Smer MP Lubos Blaha after the opposition party Progresivne Slovensko revealed on Tuesday she would appear on its slate for this year's European Parliament elections in June. This came just days after the main governing coalition party Smer filed a criminal complaint against the Dennik N daily's commentator, Martin M. Simecka, for comments he made calling Slovaks a nation of cowards. The party also refuses to communicate with media which are critical of it. The head of state honoured the memory of the murdered couple on the SNP Square in downtown Bratislava on Wednesday, while in the evening, a public gathering took place at Freedom Square (Namestie Slobody). Unlike the opposition-led protests witnessed in recent months, this gathering was organised by the initiative For a Decent Slovakia. Kuciak's and Kusnirova's parents opened the event. "First of all, I want to thank you for helping us fight for justice for our children," said Jozef Kuciak, the late journalist's father. About 7,000 people gathered in Bratislava, chanting "Fico to jail" and "Shame". Journalists, media and anti-corruption watchdogs, and artists all appeared on stage to support the work of journalists, demand justice for the murdered couple and their families, and express their wish for a better Slovakia. Diplomats came to the Kuciak monument in the capital on Wednesday, too. Events similar to the one in Bratislava took place in almost 40 towns and cities in the country and abroad. For example, more than 70 people gathered in Brussels. Secretary General of the European Federation of Journalists Ricardo Gutierrez also supported the event in Belgium's capital. The Federation is closely following the actions of the Slovak government, which, in Gutierrez's view, is committing acts of intimidation against journalists and spreading hate speech against media representatives, the TASR news agency wrote. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola marked the sixth anniversary on the social media platform X. "We'll never forget," 200 people shouted in the popular Slovak spa town of Piestany. In Roznava, activist Katarina Cibikova asked people to not give up. "Evil wins when good people do nothing," she said. On Wednesday, people also said a prayer in several towns. A letter written by the Kuciaks and the Kusnirs was read out loud everywhere. Matovic: People have forgotten about Kuciak In addition to the Slovak president and diplomats, opposition parties also marked the anniversary by visiting the Bratislava monument to the murdered couple, and on social media and in parliament. "The government coalition trampled on their memory with a mafia amendment to the Penal Code, where many of the criminal activities that Jan Kuciak wrote about will be statute-barred," noted Za Ludi chair and MP Veronika Remisova, as quoted by TASR. The changes will abolish the Special Prosecutor's Office, reduce penalties for a number of crimes, including corruption. Many rape cases may go unpunished once the law becomes effective. The opposition and the president have turned to the Constitutional Court to suspend the adopted extensive amendment and rule whether it is in line with the constitution. However, the new Penal Code is yet to be published on the country's statute book, nor will it be in the coming days, Justice Minister Boris Susko (Smer) has said. The ministry is responsible for publishing laws in the statute book. However, the minister has said that the Penal Code is yet to be delivered to the ministry. Some argue that the court may reject the submissions if the law is not published in the statute book. Therefore, it is currently unclear if the court will deal with the them. To prevent the law from coming into force, the court has to agree with the arguments presented by the president and the opposition parties. Also, its decision has to be published in the statute book before March 15 when the law should come into force. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, ex-premier and Slovensko party leader Igor Matovic criticised people, including journalists, for forgetting about "Kuciak's sacrifice", pointing to Smer's win in elections last year. "A journalist should always seek the truth, should not pretend to be its owner and should not manipulate people," the former prime minister said. Matovic called on PM Robert Fico (Smer) to "finally" say who masterminded the killings of the pair. "At a protest in Nitra in 2022, in front of a few thousand people, he said that the whole of Slovakia will be very surprised when they [Smer] unveil who is the real mastermind behind the murder." Three men - Miroslav Marcek, Zoltan Andrusko, Tomas Szabo - are serving jail sentences over the murders. But businessman Marian Kocner has been acquitted twice in the case, although a close contact, Alena Zsuzsova, has been convicted for the killings. The Supreme Court is expected to hear an appeal over the acquittal later this year. Around 100 people gathered outside the Slovak embassy in Prague to mark the Kuciak anniversary on February 21, 2024. (Source: TASR) Smer feels it is being targeted While Slovakia honoured Kuciak and Kusnirova, the government did not see the anniversary as a priority. There was no minute of silence in today's government meeting, and some ministers complained that the Kuciak case has been largely politicised. When Finance Minister Ladislav Kamenicky (Smer) was asked why Smer continues to attack journalists, he took offence. "I think that the targets here are mainly politicians and Smer. Actually, Smer representatives have always been the biggest target of the media here," he said. Smer was in power when Kuciak and Kusnirova were killed in 2018. Many blame the party for the tragedy, at least politically. After their murders, Fico was ousted from the PM's chair. At the same time, he began to suspect billionaire George Soros of financing anti-government protests in Slovakia. Peter Pellegrini, a popular Smer official at that time, replaced Fico. Today, Pellegrini leads his own party, Hlas, sits in the coalition with Fico (and SNS leader Andrej Danko), holds the office of the speaker of parliament, and is hoping to win the presidential election in the spring. Although Fico and Pellegrini are Slovakia's top officials (together with the president), they didn't publish any statement regarding the anniversary during the day. Instead, Pellegrini shared a video to tell people how the state will help people with their energy bills in the future. At night, Fico shared a post on Facebook in which he accused the media, the opposition and NGOs of turning Kuciak and Kusnirova into "May 1 posters that they pull out when it suits them". He claimed that the Wednesday gatherings had taken place to boost the support for ex-foreign minister Ivan Korcok, Pellegrini's only relevant opponent in the presidential race. Fico also blamed the opposition for the murder of Kuciak. "[PS leader Michal] Simecka, [KDH leader Milan] Majersky, [SaS leader Richard] Sulik, Matovic and your superiors, think about who was interested in murdering the journalist and his girlfriend in 2018 so that my third government would fall. It was not me," Fico posted on Wednesday night. Date for hearing yet to be set. Marian Kocner during the Kuciak trial in May 2022. (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share That day, the bitter aftertaste and the expectation of death dominated the defendants conversation in Marian Kocners Threema [chat application], claim prosecutors from the Special Prosecutors Office. The day the prosecutors are referring to was February 21, 2018, the day journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova were murdered. Kocners message 50 (soon) skull is, yes, perhaps a less careful encryption, but a logical outcome of this atmosphere of expectation, the prosecutors write in their appeal against a ruling by the Specialised Criminal Court in May last year which acquitted Kocner for the second time over involvement in the murders. The court did, however, found his alleged accomplice, Alena Zsuzsova, guilty of ordering the murders of Kuciak, as well as of prosecutors Maros Zilinka and Peter Sufliarsky, and a 21-year sentence she was handed in another case was increased to a total sentence of 25 years in prison. Wednesday marks six years since the murders. From the 115-page appeal sent by the prosecutors to the Supreme Court it is clear that the Special Prosecutors Office is using new arguments in the trial. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/euromaidan-was-part-of-wests-proxy-war-against-russia--cia-veteran-1116894202.html Euromaidan Was Part of West's Proxy War Against Russia CIA Veteran Euromaidan Was Part of West's Proxy War Against Russia CIA Veteran Sputnik International Exactly ten years ago then-President Viktor Yanukovich signed an agreement to resolve the political crisis in Ukraine with the Euromaidan opposition. The very next day the opposition trashed the accords and took power by force. 2024-02-21T05:00+0000 2024-02-21T05:00+0000 2024-02-25T13:44+0000 world 10th anniversary of euromaidan coup in ukraine europe larry johnson arseniy yatsenyuk ukraine russia kiev nato cia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107824/95/1078249512_0:115:2808:1695_1920x0_80_0_0_e2c7b03617074a34c702024c6d24e313.jpg Months of Euromaidan riots ended with Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych agreeing to reform the constitution, form a "government of national unity," and hold early elections in December 2014. The then-Ukrainian president also agreed to pardon rioters and launch investigations into violent acts by law enforcement officials.How West & Ukrainian Opposition Derailed Peace AccordsThe February 21 agreements to end the political crisis in Ukraine were signed by Yanukovych and opposition leaders Vitaly Klitschko (Udar Party), Arseniy Yatsenyuk (Batkivshchyna), and Oleh Tyahnybok (ultranationalist Svoboda Party*) in the presence of German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, and Eric Fournier, director of the Continental Europe Department at the French Foreign Ministry.Although the agreement guaranteed by the EU powers appeared to be solid, it barely lasted 24 hours: on February 22, 2014, the buildings of the presidential administration, the Verkhovna Rada, and the Cabinet of Ministers were seized by violent protesters. The Maidan leaders appointed Oleksandr Turchynov as head of the Verkhovna Rada in violation of the country's constitution, effectively ousting Yanukovych.Yanukovych went on the air from Kharkiv on February 22, 2014, and insisted that he would not resign: "I am a legally elected president. What is happening is fragrant vandalism and banditry and a coup d'etat," he said.Nonetheless, EU leaders openly signaled that they would work with the "new government" of Ukraine, thus destroying the agreements they had previously supported.Real Puppeteers Were American Policy-MakersIn early February 2014, a conversation between individuals believed to be then-US Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland and then-US Ambassador to Ukraine Geoffrey Pyatt discussing the future composition of the Ukrainian government was leaked online. They talked about bringing opposition leader Arseniy Yatsenyuk to power, while keeping Tyahnybok and Klitchko "outside". In a passage that caused embarrassment to Washington, Nuland was heard to dismiss European partners with the phrase "F**k the EU."Russia Was the TargetIn the wake of the coup, the Ukrainian junta resorted to brutal persecution of their political opponents, promoting an openly Russophobic agenda, and launched nothing short of a war on Donbass civilians who did not accept the illegitimate ouster of Yanukovych.However, the real target of the US-backed regime change in Kiev was Russia, according to Larry Johnson, a retired CIA intelligence officer and State Department official.The CIA veteran drew attention to the fact that the Euromaidan coup d'etat "ignited a civil war in Ukraine" and "ended up elevating Ukraine into a frontline priority" for the West."So prior to 2014, you didn't get a lot of NATO exercises, featuring Ukraine. After 2014 Ukraine, even though it was not a formal member of NATO, was regularly featured in these joint annual exercises and that meant that Ukraine then became a proxy for a Cold War," Johnson said.For its part, Russia made efforts to stop the bloodshed in Donbass through the 2014 and 2015 Minsk Agreements. The accords envisaged cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of heavy weapons from the front line, release of prisoners of war, and a constitutional reform in Ukraine to grant self-governance to breakaway Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics.However, in 2022 former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and ex-French President Francois Hollande admitted that the Minsk Agreements were seen by the West as an opportunity to arm and train the Ukrainian Army. For his part, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged in an interview with Spiegel in February 2023 that he actually had not been intended to observe the Minsk accords and informed his European counterparts about that. So, the accords were thrown down the drain in the same manner the Ukrainian opposition and the West shredded agreements with Yanukovych on February 22, 2014.Hostilities Could be Stopped Many Times, West Just Didn't Want to Do ItThere were plenty of opportunities to avoid armed conflicts in Ukraine, highlighted Johnson.Russia has always been open to negotiations, President Vladimir Putin told the press on February 20, during a meeting with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.Moscow maintained dialogue with the governments of Poroshenko and Zelensky to implement the Minsk Agreements in order to respect the rights of Ukraine's Russian-speakers while at the same time preserving the nation's territorial integrity.It remains neglected by the Western mainstream press that before launching the special military operation to demilitarize and de-Nazify Ukraine Moscow sought to conclude agreements with the US and NATO to ensure common European security. The draft agreements which envisaged NATO's guarantees of eastward non-expansion and Ukraine's neutral status were snubbed by Washington, Brussels and NATO leadership.Just a month after the beginning of the special military operation, Russian and Ukrainian representatives inked preliminary peace agreements in Istanbul in March 2022. Davyd Arakhamia, who headed the Ukrainian delegation during the March 2022 Istanbul talks with Russia, told Ukrainian broadcaster 1+1 in November 2023 that Moscow was ready to end the conflict if Ukraine committed to neutrality and refused to join NATO. However, it was then-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who encouraged President Volodymyr Zelensky to pick the battle and fight to the bitter end, the Ukrainian politician said."When we returned from Istanbul, Boris Johnson came to Kiev and said: 'We wont sign anything with them at all, and lets just fight'," Arakhamia recalled.However, ex-PM Johnson was not alone in derailing the deal. "This war will be won on the battlefield," European Union top diplomat Josep Borrell tweeted in April 2022, pledging hundreds of millions of euros for Kiev.The same month, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin claimed that Washington wanted to see "Russia weakened to the degree that it cant do the kinds of things that it has done" in launching the special military operation. The US has spent over $100 billion in support for Ukraine's military effort since then."The Western governments don't want anything good to happen to Russia. They're not willing to do anything to improve the lives of the Russian people. In my view, it's genuine evil. And I'm watching this horrific policy that's implemented by my government and there's going to be an accounting someday. This is wrong," the CIA veteran said.*Svoboda Party is an extremist organization banned in Russia. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/watch-in-full-president-putins-interview-to-tucker-carlson-1116683752.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240218/russophobic-us-elite-sought-to-weaken-russia-with-euromaidan-but-failed---ex-mep-1116842866.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240219/how-euromaidan-triggered-ukraines-nine-year-war-on-donbass-1116864693.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230712/nato-spent-years-preparing-for-proxy-war-with-russia-in-ukraine-1111838638.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240111/baltic-states-join-ukraine-in-seeking-to-draw-nato-into-open-conflict-with-russia-1116121396.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20220109/ex-pentagon-officer-biden-should-accept-russias-draft-security-agreements-as-basis-for-yalta-20-1092128161.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20231126/just-bojos-fault-zelensky--west-equally-responsible-for-killing-peace-deal-unleashing-bloodshed-1115219479.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230713/blood-on-the-walls-inside-ukraines-torture-chambers-1111796712.html ukraine russia kiev Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova 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 Ekaterina Blinova euromaidan, february 2014 coup d'etat, revolution of dignity, viktor yanukovych, victoria nuland, vladimir putin, tucker carlson, 10th anniversary of maidan coup d'etat, kiev's anti-terrorist operation against donbass, donbass breakaway republics, neo-nazi ukrainians, us proxy war against russia in ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/ex-un-expert-if-assange-is-extradited-to-us-no-journalist-in-world-will-be-safe-1116904070.html Ex-UN Expert: If Assange is Extradited to US No Journalist in World Will Be Safe Ex-UN Expert: If Assange is Extradited to US No Journalist in World Will Be Safe Sputnik International WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange may be extradited to the US in the wake of the two-day hearing at London's High Court. What would that mean for freedom of speech? 2024-02-21T10:25+0000 2024-02-21T10:25+0000 2024-02-21T10:25+0000 opinion julian assange chelsea manning geneva united kingdom (uk) sweden the united nations (un) wikileaks alfred de zayas freedom of speech https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/09/1080407322_0:26:2737:1566_1920x0_80_0_0_cef485f9f04d1c4b8460448020c6bb2d.jpg A legal team of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is fighting to prevent his extradition to the US where he will face 17 counts of espionage and one charge of computer misuse. Assange, who made classified data provided to him by Chelsea (born Bradley) Manning in 2010 public, shedding light on the US' alleged war crimes during its invasions and occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq, could receive a prison term of up to 175 years.De Zayas explained that this principle, known as "non-refoulement", is customary international law and its violation would entail breaches not only of the Geneva Refugee Convention but also of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the UN Convention against Torture (Article 3) and the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.Furthermore, Assange's extradition "would be the culmination of 14 years of vicious lawfare, of the destruction of the rule of law in the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden and Ecuador, all complicit in this scandal and all too public," argued de Zayas.The retired UN expert highlighted that his colleague, the UN Special Rapporteur on torture Professor Nils Melzer, visited Assange in the UK's Belmarsh prison and called his detention "torture," and urged the WikiLeaks founder's immediate release.De Zayas pointed out that the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention examined the case and determined that Assange's detention "constituted a violation of article 9 of the ICCPR and demanded his release."In his capacity as UN independent expert on international order, de Zayas personally met Assange in 2015 at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and similarly demanded his release. The then UN expert also called for the adoption of a Charter of the Rights of Whistleblowers that should protect them from prosecution and ensure that the public is not kept in the dark about crucial matters. https://sputnikglobe.com/20210629/ex-un-official-if-assange-were-found-dead-id-suspect-extrajudicial-execution-cia-is-known-for-1083268080.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/assanges-extradition-will-show-whether-freedom-exists-in-west-1116891306.html geneva united kingdom (uk) sweden Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova 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 Ekaterina Blinova julian assange, wikileaks founder, assange's extradition to the us, us accused assange of espionage, freedom of speech, freedom of press, if assange is extradited no journalist in the world would be safe https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/failed-trident-missile-launch-casts-doubt-on-us-and-uk-nuclear-capability-1116908317.html Failed Trident Missile Launch Casts Doubt on US and UK Nuclear Capability Failed Trident Missile Launch Casts Doubt on US and UK Nuclear Capability Sputnik International The UK's test on a Trident II missile with a dummy warhead has ended in ridicule after the ICBM crashed in the sea right next to the submarine that launched it after the missiles first-stage boosters apparently failed to ignite. 2024-02-21T17:58+0000 2024-02-21T17:58+0000 2024-02-21T17:58+0000 analysis military & intelligence alexei leonkov trident ii (d5) missile nuclear weapons https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101591/75/1015917568_0:385:2486:1783_1920x0_80_0_0_19443e73e1d1159bc034c5c16440146d.jpg The UK's test on a Trident II missile with a dummy warhead has ended in ridicule after the ICBM crashed in the sea right next to the submarine that launched it after the missiles first-stage boosters apparently failed to ignite.The UK Defense Ministry promptly claimed that the British nuclear deterrent (comprised solely of the Trident II missiles) remains effective and attributed the launch failure to an anomaly of some sort.Commenting on this development, military analyst and editor of Arsenal Otechestva (Arsenal of the Fatherland) media outlet Alexei Leonkov pointed out that Trident II missiles are made in the United States, not in Britain.After the 2016 Trident II test launch when the missile ended up flying in the wrong direction, the UK invested considerable money and effort into rectifying the problems with these ICBS, all in vain if the 2024 test is any indication, Leonkov pointed out.He also observed that the US laboratory that was supposed to develop a new warhead for Trident II is yet to do so.He did note, however, that London may rectify this situation somewhat by deploying tactical nuclear weapons namely, the US-made B61-12 nuclear bombs that could be delivered via the F-35 jets Britain bought from the United States.Meanwhile, the Russian nuclear arsenal has undergone significant upgrades since the end of the Cold War era, now featuring advanced weapons such as RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missiles, Avangard hypersonic gliders and Bulava-M submarine-based ballistic missiles, to name a few.Noting that China, North Korea and India are working on improving their respective nuclear arsenals, Leonkov pointed out that Beijing, like Russia, also already has its own hypersonic gliding vehicle whereas neither the US nor UK can boast of any such success.As far as NATO is concerned, only France has a relatively modern nuclear arsenal since 2015, he added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/russia-always-against-deployment-of-nuclear-weapons-in-space---putin-1116893379.html 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 trident missile launch failure, uk nuclear weapons, us nuclear weapons https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/how-avdeyevka-was-liberated-and-what-comes-next-1116895814.html How Avdeyevka Was Liberated and What Comes Next How Avdeyevka Was Liberated and What Comes Next Sputnik International International relations and security expert Mark Sleboda spoke with Radio Sputnik to explain how Russia liberated Avdeyevka and what he thinks comes next in the Special Operation. 2024-02-21T01:20+0000 2024-02-21T01:20+0000 2024-02-21T07:38+0000 analysis mark sleboda volodymyr zelensky sergei shoigu ukraine avdeyevka russia armed forces of ukraine starlink https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/14/1116888970_0:150:3107:1898_1920x0_80_0_0_ec7c98670e841d46829384c77044de1b.jpg The operation had been months in the making, progressing gradually before quickly accelerating as Ukrainian defenses crumbled in the South and North. This collapse led to the encirclement of the remaining Ukrainian forces stuck in the middle.It was a rout, Sleboda emphasized. The order to retreat was only given two days after the Kiev regime troops en masse were abandoning their positions.Sleboda explained that there were five major reasons why Ukraine lost what has been described by some military experts as the most heavily fortified location on Earth.Sleboda noted that this was the first operation in Ukraine where Russian soldiers actually outnumbered the enemy. It wasnt [the standard military rule of thumb for an offensive] six to one advantage in this conflict, but there definitely was a somewhat larger number of Russians, he said, noting that the Russians were also of better quality. Theres a lot of Kiev regime forces that were thrown in, especially at the end as attempted reinforcements that were territorial defense had been mobilized, forcibly conscripted just two weeks ago.Sleboda said that there was also a lack of communication between Ukrainian commanders and the front line, possibly brought on by unconfirmed reports that Russian electronic warfare efforts cut Ukrainian soldiers off from Starlink services, which Ukraine uses to communicate over large distances. Sleboda called the reports very credible and that it resulted in a lot of troops in the city [having] no idea what was going on at the end.The fourth and fifth factors contributing to Avdeyevkas liberation are interconnected, Sleboda said. They include Kiev's lack of air defenses and Russias heavy use of guided FAB long-range bombs.Those factors combined shattered the morale of Ukrainian troops, Sleboda said, noting that Kiev only gave the order to retreat to save face after troops were already abandoning their position.Sleboda said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was extremely angry that Avdeyevka collapsed while he was at the Munich Security Conference. He was extremely embarrassed, Sleboda claimed, saying that Zelensky wanted to hold the city at least until the conference ended, if not the Russian Presidential elections next month.Asked whats coming next, Sleboda noted that Russia does not like to advertise its war plans.Still, Sleboda predicts that Russian forces will soon move past Avdeyevka and capture the villages behind it, presumably referring to Orlovka, Severnoye, Tonenkoye and Stepovoye but possibly as far as the Karlovka Reservoir, the first significant natural barrier Ukraine could use for defense. [Ukraine] did not build fortifications past Avdeyevka. In that direction there's no clear fortified line for the Kiev regime forces to retreat to, he added, specifically saying that Novomikhailovka to the south of Avdeyevka should fall soon, noting that Russian soldiers are already in the eastern and southern parts of the town.Sleboda mentioned Ugledar as a possible goal, which he said the Russians could try to cut the supply lines to the very tough, fortified position that the Ukrainians have built there.So this is going to lead to, at least locally, a cascading collapse over the next two months, Sleboda predicted. He also speculated that Russia may work to erase the meager gains Ukraine made last year during its failed counteroffensive on other front lines, specifically pointing to Rabotino as a focus in the Zaporozhye direction where he said a big force has gathered. That force could push as far as Orekhov, from which the [Ukrainian counteroffensive] was staged and maybe even Zaporozhye City," which is about 35 miles from Rabotino and 25 miles from the current frontline in Kamenskoye.Ivanovskoye and Chasov Yar, just outside of Artemovsk (fka Bakhmut) are also in danger of falling, Sleboda said. Operations in Ivanovskoye have been a focus in recent months, according to most military mappers, with Russian forces making gains in the town's North and West.Ultimately, Sleboda predicts that nothing will save Ukraine from eventual capitulation, even if its Western benefactors eventually provide their long-promised aid. The US lacks the military-industrial capacity [to keep up with Russian production] and throwing a few tens of billions more dollars at the problem is not going to solve it in three to five years, Sleboda explained. Instead, the bill being debated in the US Congress, which includes roughly $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, would only enable the Zelensky regime To seize more people, more resources, more press gangs abducting [people] off the streets, because no one is volunteering [Ukraines recruits are] all unwilling civilians at this point. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/russian-general-staff-carried-out-operation-to-take-control-of-avdeyevka-with-minimal-losses-shoigu-1116891879.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/us-house-lawmakers-urge-colleagues-to-back-ukraine-aid--border-security-bill-1116885482.html ukraine avdeyevka russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ian DeMartino Ian DeMartino News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ian DeMartino avdeyevka liberation, how did avdiivka fall? mark sleboda on ukraine, what happened in avdeyevka, ukrainian retreated from avdeyevka why, ukraine military disaster https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/only-west-can-undermine-zelenskys-position-not-loss-of-avdeyevka---medvedchuk-1116899592.html Only West Can Undermine Zelensky, Not Loss of Avdeyevka - Ukrainian Opposition Politician Only West Can Undermine Zelensky, Not Loss of Avdeyevka - Ukrainian Opposition Politician Sputnik International The fact that Russian military took control of Avdeyevka cannot undermine the position of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, only Western countries can do this, Ukrainian opposition politician Viktor Medvedchuk told Sputnik 2024-02-21T07:32+0000 2024-02-21T07:32+0000 2024-02-21T10:33+0000 world viktor medvedchuk volodymyr zelensky russia avdeyevka ukraine russian defense ministry commonwealth of independent states https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/13/1116870360_2:0:1271:714_1920x0_80_0_0_79ec573604d612d5b7068451cda6ee6d.jpg On February 17, Oleksandr Syrsky, Ukrainian commander-in-chief, announced the decision to withdraw units from the city of Avdeyevka. The Russian Defense Ministry, in turn, said that the Russian military had taken full control of the city. Medvedchuk also told Sputnik that the Ukrainian economy can be restored only in cooperation with Russia.Medvedchuk added that it is "necessary to restore the realization of our exports, it is necessary to increase production and industrial capacities." https://sputnikglobe.com/20240218/avdeyevkas-liberation-shows-ukrainian-front-has-begun-to-crack-1116862066.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240219/how-euromaidan-triggered-ukraines-nine-year-war-on-donbass-1116864693.html russia avdeyevka 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 maidan, what happened during maidan, maidan unrest in ukraine, 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/20240221/pro-assange-rally-continuing-outside-high-court-in-london-for-2nd-day-in-row-1116906660.html Pro-Assange Rally Continuing Outside High Court in London for 2nd Day in Row Pro-Assange Rally Continuing Outside High Court in London for 2nd Day in Row Sputnik International A rally in support of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is going on for the second consecutive day outside the High Court of Justice in London, according to a live broadcast by Sky News 2024-02-21T13:10+0000 2024-02-21T13:10+0000 2024-02-21T13:10+0000 world julian assange london united kingdom (uk) paris wikileaks sputnik https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/15/1116906499_0:6:3622:2043_1920x0_80_0_0_a11bce5e05b8879f52437a68d7b9a6d6.jpg Earlier this week, the UK government published a list of cases for the two-day hearing, which started on Tuesday. The court will decide whether Assange will have further opportunities to fight extradition to the United States before UK courts. The demonstrators are holding up posters calling for Assange's release and his non-extradition to the US. On Tuesday, several hundred people also held a rally in support of the jailed journalist in Paris, a Sputnik correspondent reported. One of the last means of preventing his transfer to the US may be an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. Assange lost his previous appeal at the UK High Court last June. WikiLeaks was founded by Assange in 2006 but rose to prominence in 2010 when it began publishing large-scale leaks of classified government information, including from the US. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/ex-un-expert-if-assange-is-extradited-to-us-no-journalist-in-world-will-be-safe-1116904070.html london united kingdom (uk) paris 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 julian assange rally, pro-assange rally, wiki leaks and assange, what did assange do, where is assange https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/russias-lavrov-arrives-in-brazil-to-participate-in-g20-foreign-ministers-meeting-1116897693.html Russian FM Lavrov Arrives in Brazil to Meet With G20 Top Diplomats Russian FM Lavrov Arrives in Brazil to Meet With G20 Top Diplomats Sputnik International Russian FM Sergey Lavrov has arrived in Brazil to participate in the meeting of the G20 foreign ministers, taking place from February 21-22, a Sputnik correspondent reported. 2024-02-21T04:14+0000 2024-02-21T04:14+0000 2024-02-21T09:45+0000 world russia brazil rio de janeiro sergey lavrov maria zakharova russian foreign ministry g20 g20 ministerial meeting https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/15/1116897839_0:0:1280:721_1920x0_80_0_0_cad84e8d1b644c5505f48adbe7340b50.jpg The Russian Foreign Ministry said earlier that the first meeting under Brazil's chairmanship would be devoted to the issues pertaining to the modern international agenda, "with a focus on resolving geopolitical contradictions and reforming global economic institutions." Lavrov, in his address, will talk about Russia's assessment of the challenges facing the international community, their internal causes and dynamics, as well as the steps needed to effectively overcome these issues, the ministry said.Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said earlier that Lavrov would note the importance of using all available diplomatic tools, means of peacefully settling disputes, mutually respectful dialogue and cooperation to ensure indivisible and sustainable security. The Russian top diplomat is going to meet with several of his counterparts from emerging market countries on the meeting's sidelines, Zakharova noted.Last week, Assistant US Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs Ramin Toloui stated that there were no scheduled bilateral meetings between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Lavrov. Additionally, he clarified that Brazil had not requested the G20 foreign ministers to draft a joint statement on the situation in Ukraine.The Russian Foreign Ministry announced that at the scheduled meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Rio de Janeiro on February 21-22, Moscow would emphasize the importance of avoiding any politicization of the forum. The G20 is meant to address social and economic challenges, and Russia aims to call attention to this core focus.The ministry added that the G20 should not be considered an alternative to the United Nations Security Council, which has exclusive prerogatives to maintain international peace and security. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/lavrov-russia-considers-promising-cooperation-with-venezuela-on-peaceful-atom-1116897209.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/lavrov-top-cuban-diplomat-to-visit-russia-in-2024-1116884517.html russia brazil rio de janeiro 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 g20 foreign ministers meeting, g20 meeting, lavrov has arrived in brazil, lavrov latin america tour, lavrov in rio de janeiro https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/scott-ritter-on-avdeyevka-ukrainian-forces-failed-to-hold-their-own-on-battlefield-1116903184.html Scott Ritter on Avdeyevka: Ukrainian Forces Failed to 'Hold Their Own on Battlefield Scott Ritter on Avdeyevka: Ukrainian Forces Failed to 'Hold Their Own on Battlefield Sputnik International Ukrainian troops failed to "stabilize the battlefield" in Avdeyevka due to scanty fire support, former US Marine Corps intelligence officer Scott Ritter told Sputnik. 2024-02-21T10:32+0000 2024-02-21T10:32+0000 2024-02-21T10:32+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine avdeyevka battle liberation troops support capture https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/15/1116903728_0:0:2000:1125_1920x0_80_0_0_23548b9d484ad39b7229a813cb510894.jpg Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin earlier this week that an operation to take control of Avdeyevka was carried out with minimal losses. According to Shoigu, an area of 31.75 square kilometers has been freed as a result of the capture of the town from Ukrainian nationalists.Speaking to Sputnik, former US Marine Corps intelligence officer Scott Ritter said that Ukraine lost the battle of Avdeyevka for several reasons, the most dominant of which is that they simply don't have the firepower necessary to stabilize the battlefield.When it comes to the unmanned aerial vehicles, "even when Ukrainian soldiers use the drones because they can't stop the Russian air power, the drone operators are targeted and eliminated," according to Ritter.The former US Marine Corps intelligence officer underlined that when freeing the town, the Russians didn't suffer the heavy casualties that the Ukrainians claimed. But the notion that the Russians lost everybody, there's nothing left, is absurd. Russian strength grows every day. Not only are they not suffering horrific losses on the battlefield, but they're getting stronger, Ritter emphasized.He suggested that the liberation of Avdeyevka could be "the beginning of the end of the Ukrainian combat cohesion along their entire front line."The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) earlier said in a statement that the liberation of Avdeyevka "made it possible to push the front line away from Donetsk, significantly securing the city from terrorist strikes by the criminal Kiev regime." The MoD added that the Russian militarys Tsentr (Center) Battlegroup continues offensive operations to further liberate the Donetsk People's Republic from Ukrainian nationalists. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/how-avdeyevka-was-liberated-and-what-comes-next-1116895814.html russia ukraine avdeyevka Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg liberation of avdeyevka by russian forces, tsentr battlegroup's offensive operations to further liberate the donetsk people's republic from ukrainian nationalists, scott ritrer's standpoint on liberation of avdeyevka https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/sweden-struggling-to-replenish-weapons-after-ukraine-expenditures--reports-1116906320.html Sweden Struggling to Replenish Weapons After Ukraine Expenditures Reports Sweden Struggling to Replenish Weapons After Ukraine Expenditures Reports Sputnik International Sweden, along with many other European nations, has supplied several packages of military support to the Kiev regime, including heavy equipment such as artillery, tanks and combat vehicles, as well as ammunition. It has now become evident that this has had an adverse effect on its own defense capabilities 2024-02-21T13:30+0000 2024-02-21T13:30+0000 2024-02-21T13:30+0000 military europe sweden kiev stockholm foreign aid foreign military aid military support https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/104022/27/1040222729_0:110:2049:1262_1920x0_80_0_0_d42fa3c03a7a16d4f6537462e6289bfb.jpg Extra funding granted to the Swedish defense industry is not enough to replace everything that has been sent to Ukraine, Swedish broadcaster SVT reports, highlighting soaring prices in the sector.Jonny Lindfors, commander of the Swedish army, admitted that the financial compensation allocated to the armed forces is not enough to replace every missing unit.According to the media, it was initially assumed that the donated equipment would be quickly replaced with new units. However, the defense industry has since seen a serious price jump, even doubling in some cases. The commander acknowledged that this situation has led to weaker combat readiness in the country.According to Swedish media, the recently announced military package would be the largest one yet. In total, Stockholm has allocated $2.9 billion to fund the Kiev regime. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240219/how-eurobonds-to-arm-ukraine-may-strip-eu-members-of-sovereignty-1116880328.html sweden kiev stockholm 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 military aid for ukraine, is us giving more money to ukraine, why is us giving more money to kiev, whats happening to money given to kiev, will us give more money to kiev, how much money does ukraine get, how much money us gives to ukraine, how much money eu gives to ukraine, how much money europe gives to ukraine, what weapons does ukraine receive, does us give ukraine new weapons https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/third-times-a-genocide-1116909807.html Third Time's a Genocide Third Time's a Genocide Sputnik International The US vetoed a UN ceasefire resolution for Gaza for the third time, the only country to vote against the resolution. But who benefits the most from the continued slaughter in Gaza? 2024-02-21T21:28+0000 2024-02-21T21:28+0000 2024-02-21T21:28+0000 americas lockheed martin un security council (unsc) us department of defense (dod) rafah israel palestinians israel-gaza conflict palestine-israel conflict ted rall https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/15/1116909481_0:121:2001:1246_1920x0_80_0_0_eda1899ee8859fbe10686a13514c48cd.jpg The latest move marked the third ceasefire resolution vetoed by the United States and comes after Israel bombed the last remaining refuge in Gaza, the city of Rafah, where 1.4 million Gazans are currently sheltering.The United States was the only UN Security Council member to vote against any of the three ceasefire resolutions, though the United Kingdom partially joined the US by abstaining from the votes.The US support of Israel has not improved US security, with the US State Department issuing a worldwide caution warning for all American citizens traveling abroad as a result of the conflict. It also has not improved Israels security, which is now facing increasingly hostile and unified neighbors.But American support has been good for business, especially within the defense industry. For just one example, Lockheed Martin and its subsidiaries have been awarded at least $28.8 million in taxpayer money through the modification of contracts by the US Department of Defense to support weapon systems previously provided to Israel. The company's stock price also jumped nearly 9% the day after the October 7 attack, the company's largest single-day jump of 2023.When and if the US foreign aid package that is being debated in Congress passes, which includes $14 billion for Israel, there are sure to be more contracts in the pipeline for Lockheed Martin and its competitors. But a ceasefire would lessen the urgency in Washington to fund military aid. Peace, unfortunately, has a pesky habit of getting in the way of war profiteering. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/israeli-parliament-approves-resolution-rejecting-unilateral-recognition-of-palestine-1116909068.html americas rafah israel 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 political cartoons, ted rall, ceasefire in gaza, us vetoes ceasefire, lockheed martin war profits, war sponsoring https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/tucker-carlson-says-boris-johnson-wants-1mln-to-discuss-ukraine-conflict-1116896550.html Tucker Carlson Says Boris Johnson Wants $1Mln to Discuss Ukraine Conflict Tucker Carlson Says Boris Johnson Wants $1Mln to Discuss Ukraine Conflict Sputnik International Tucker Carlson said that former UK PM Boris Johnson wants $1mln from him to talk about the Ukraine conflict in the wake of Carlsons recent interview with Russian President Putin. 2024-02-21T02:19+0000 2024-02-21T02:19+0000 2024-02-21T02:19+0000 world boris johnson tucker carlson vladimir putin putins interview with tucker carlson https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0a/15/1102500268_0:0:3001:1688_1920x0_80_0_0_6c80ef518755b0df1f8a65cc395012b7.jpg "It gets out that were doing it [interviewing Putin], and Im immediately denounced by this guy called Boris Johnson So I put in a request for an interview with Boris Johnson," Carlson said in an interview with TheBlaze. "Finally, one of his advisers gets back to me and says, He will talk to you, but its going to cost you a million dollars. He wants a million dollars."Johnsons adviser said the former prime minister would be willing to explain his position on Ukraine for the six-figure fee, Carlson said. In November 2023, Ukraines former chief negotiator with Russia, David Arakhamia, said Johnson talked Kiev out of signing an agreement with Moscow to end the conflict in spring 2022. Johnson has previously denied the accusations.Johnson could not have traveled to Ukraine without consulting the United States, Putin said earlier this month. Putin did not request $1 million to participate in an interview, Carlson noted, adding that Johnson is "a lot sleazier" than Putin. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240209/watch-in-full-president-putins-interview-to-tucker-carlson-1116683752.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230709/uks-boris-johnson-splurged-800000-to-brand-pms-jet-with-union-flag-1111773737.html 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 boris johnson interview, how rich poor is boris johnson, boris johnson estimated wealth, carlson interview putin, carlson interview johnson https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/uk-navy-carries-out-unsuccessful-launch-of-trident-ii-ballistic-missile-1116898840.html UK Navy Carries Out Unsuccessful Launch of Trident II Ballistic Missile UK Navy Carries Out Unsuccessful Launch of Trident II Ballistic Missile Sputnik International The navy of the United Kingdom has carried out an unsuccessful launch of a Trident II intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from the HMS Vanguard ballistic missile-armed submarine while UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps was on board, The Sun reported on Tuesday, citing sources and the UK Ministry of Defense. 2024-02-21T06:39+0000 2024-02-21T06:39+0000 2024-02-21T06:39+0000 military grant shapps united kingdom (uk) london atlantic ocean trident ii (d5) missile uk ministry of defense trident https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107840/39/1078403908_0:273:848:750_1920x0_80_0_0_03163539b98e6ec39e6fb2fb5aab387d.jpg The report said the missile dramatically misfired and crashed into the water just feet from the submarine that launched it. The missile was launched into the air, but the first-stage boosters did not ignite, and the missile carrying dummy warheads splashed into the water and sank, the report read. The newspaper reported that the incident occurred on January 30 off the coast of the US state of Florida. A probe into the circumstances of the incident was immediately launched, and a search was ordered to recover the top-secret missile technology from the seabed, the report said. The UK Ministry of Defense said in a statement issued to the newspaper that an "anomaly occurred" during the launch but assured that London's nuclear deterrent remains "effective." "HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UKs Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UKs nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence. During the test an anomaly occurred. As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this, however we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile. The UKs nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective," the report quoted the ministry as saying. The newspaper reported earlier that the UK Navy was preparing to carry out the first launch of a Trident II ICBM for the first time since 2016 in the Atlantic Ocean. The missile was planned to fly over 6,000 kilometers (3,700 miles) before splashing between Brazil and West Africa. The previous launch of a Trident II ICBM from a UK submarine in 2016 also failed. The missile was planned to fly 9,000 kilometers from the Florida coast to a target southeast of Ascension Island, but it reportedly veered off course toward the United States and self-destructed. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230131/britains-royal-navy-faces-sticky-situation-as-superglued-bolts-found-in-reactor-of-trident-nuke-sub-1106864641.html united kingdom (uk) london atlantic ocean 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 trident missile, uk, uk defense https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/ukraines-bloody-maidan-coup-see-how-it-started-1116905208.html Ukraines Bloody Maidan Coup: See How It Started Ukraines Bloody Maidan Coup: See How It Started Sputnik International This February marks the 10th anniversary of the Maidan coup that shook Ukraine to the core and sparked a chain of dramatic events throughout the country 2024-02-21T12:26+0000 2024-02-21T12:26+0000 2024-02-25T12:29+0000 world viktor yanukovych ukraine kiev european union (eu) verkhovna rada lugansk peoples republic donetsk people's republic crimea 10th anniversary of euromaidan coup in ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/15/1116905050_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_32392374cc0dbce47ab8c27e0e5e2888.jpg What started as social unrest in late 2013 due to the then-presidents decision to delay a trade agreement between Ukraine and the EU eventually erupted into massive political demonstrations backed by the US and the EU calling for closer ties with Europe.Amid the bloody developments in the streets of Kiev, political upheaval was brewing in Ukraines Verkhovna Rada parliament. Radicals soon declared the government as illegitimate, thus resulting in putschists seizing power in direct violation of Ukraines Constitution.The protests quickly grew increasingly violent and ultimately led to full-fledged armed clashes with Ukrainian law enforcement. Pressured by the opposition, President Viktor Yanukovych fled Ukraine, effectively abandoning the country amid a profound crisis.The new Kiev government took political measures infringing on the rights of Russian-speaking citizens of Ukraine. This prompted people in Eastern Ukraine to take to the streets to oppose the new authorities.The deep social and political rift within the Ukrainian society sparked the beginning of the ongoing Ukrainian crisis. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240217/how-fake-heavenly-hundred-was-used-to-legitimize-bloodbath--coup-detat-in-ukraine-1116827558.html ukraine kiev 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 Ukraines bloody Maidan coup: see how it started Sputnik International Ukraines bloody Maidan coup: see how it started 2024-02-21T12:26+0000 true PT1M28S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International maidan, maidan 10 year anniversary, what happened during maidan, 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/20240221/up-to-1000-ukrainian-troops-believed-to-be-captured-in-retreat-from-avdeyevka---reports-1116897430.html Up to 1,000 Ukrainian Troops Believed to Be Captured in Retreat From Avdeyevka - Reports Up to 1,000 Ukrainian Troops Believed to Be Captured in Retreat From Avdeyevka - Reports Sputnik International Between 850 and 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers appear to have been captured or are unaccounted for during the Ukrainian retreat from Avdeyevka, The New York Times reported. 2024-02-21T03:37+0000 2024-02-21T03:37+0000 2024-02-21T03:37+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine avdeyevka the new york times ukrainian armed forces pow https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/0b/1116118376_0:323:3065:2047_1920x0_80_0_0_fa5a25b65ecf456565f52f25915e3cd1.jpg The newspaper cited senior Western officials and soldiers fighting in Ukraine as saying that the retreat of Ukrainian troops from Avdeyevka is a devastating loss that could deal a blow to already weakening morale and may be more significant than it initially seemed. The report also cited officials as saying that the Ukrainian withdrawal was ill-planned and began too late, but American officials told the newspaper that the loss of Avdeyevka was not a significant strategic setback.However, the report said, American officials believe that morale among Ukrainian soldiers was already eroding against the background of a failed counteroffensive in 2023 and the removal of Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi, which may further complicate Kiev's efforts to recruit soldiers. On Saturday, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi announced the decision to withdraw troops from Avdeyevka, a northern suburb of Donetsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the decision to pull out the troops had been made to "save people's lives." Later, the Russian Defense Ministry said that the Russian military had taken full control of the city of Avdeyevka. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/how-avdeyevka-was-liberated-and-what-comes-next-1116895814.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240220/russian-general-staff-carried-out-operation-to-take-control-of-avdeyevka-with-minimal-losses-shoigu-1116891879.html russia ukraine avdeyevka 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 ukrainian pow, how many men did ukraine loos in avdeyevka, ukraine army, ukrainian failed counteroffensive, ukrainian forces retreat https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/we-own-the-truth-how-freedom-of-speech-has-become-wests-nemesis-1116907345.html 'We Own the Truth': How Freedom of Speech Has Become West's Nemesis 'We Own the Truth': How Freedom of Speech Has Become West's Nemesis Sputnik International Persecution of Julian Assange and Edward Snowden has already had a chilling effect on global journalism and whistleblowers' activity, retired UN expert Alfred de Zayas told Sputnik. 2024-02-21T15:50+0000 2024-02-21T15:50+0000 2024-02-21T15:50+0000 julian assange edward snowden tucker carlson ukraine russia sweden ukrainian security service (sbu) nord stream nsa opinion https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/01/05/1081652381_0:0:3562:2004_1920x0_80_0_0_a2ebd4e85b4210de5b552e9f4e0c8ebd.jpg Following bombshell revelations by WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and ex-National Security Agency (NSA) contractor Edward Snowden, the world has not seen any more exposures of a similar scale and scope.Assange, who has been held in a UK high-security prison since 2019, had been hiding for almost seven years in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London after he was granted political asylum by Quito in 2012. At the time, then Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa shielded Assange from possible extradition to the US over exposure of the Afghan and Iraq "war logs" shedding light on Washington's alleged war crimes in Central Asia and the Middle East.While residing in the embassy, Assange made several important revelations, including concerning the CIA's global hacking activities as well as the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Hillary Clinton's apparent corruption. It was rumored that Assange knew exactly who was behind the DNC and Clinton campaign leaks and could end Team Clinton's speculations about the "Russia hacking" hoax. In April 2019, Correa's successor, Lenin Moreno, revoked asylum for Assange, thus allowing the British police to arrest the WikiLeaks founder. Assange will face up to 175 years in US prison if extradited.For his part, former NSA contractor Edward Snowden revealed in 2013 that the NSA had direct access to the systems of Google, Apple, and some other tech giants. The NSA's secret program, codenamed Prism, allowed the US intelligence community to collect vast amounts of data on Americans, Washington's allies and foreign citizens alike. Prism was launched in 2007 in the wake of the passage of the Protect America Act under the George W. Bush administration. Snowden, who is facing US charges that could land him in prison for up to 30 years, was granted political asylum in Russia.Sy Hersh and Gonzalo Lira: US Gov't Canceling and Silencing TruthAnother journalist exposing the US government's apparent crime is Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, who dropped a bombshell about the September 26, 2022, sabotage attack on Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. On February 8, 2023, Hersh described an apparent plot by Team Biden and the US intelligence community to blast the Nord Stream pipelines with the help of Norway. Remarkably, he named Biden's National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan (a former Clinton campaign operative who peddled the Trump-Russia hoax), as the one who assembled a "dream-team" to blow the pipelines up.Western governments and mainstream media opted to black out Hersh's expose. To date, none of the Western countries involved in the subsequent investigation have presented explanations of what happened or named a culprit."What strikes me is how Germany allowed a terrorist act to be committed against its pipelines and that it did not insist on participating in the investigations. Of course the US, UK, Norway, Sweden and Poland know exactly what happened, and they owe it to the world to come clean. The UN General Assembly should have demanded from Sweden to make its investigation public. The fact that Sweden has stonewalled speaks volumes. The mainstream media is complicit in burying this war act by the US against its NATO ally Germany. History will not judge Olaf Scholz lightly."Meanwhile, US journalist Gonzalo Lira - who covered the Ukraine conflict on YouTube, Telegram, and Twitter, subjecting the Kiev regime to sharp criticism and busting the Western mainstream media narrative about the conflict - faced a terrible fate. Lira was twice grabbed by the infamous Ukrainian Security Service (SBU). In January it turned out that he died in Ukrainian custody.By neglecting Lira's case, the Biden administration set a dangerous precedent, Wall Street analyst Charles Ortel warned in an interview with Sputnik on January 15. One could only guess why the US government decided not to save an American citizen unveiling inconvenient truths about the US proxy war in Ukraine.'Canceling' Tucker Carlson's Interview With PutinMost recently, independent journalist Tucker Carlson has been subjected to harsh criticism and even accused of "treason" for carrying out an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin on what is going on in Ukraine.Under these circumstances, it was quite logical that an American journalist sought to find out what Moscow thinks about the causes and potential consequences of the conflict. Moreover, it appears that people worldwide were also interested given that the Carlson-Putin interview has received about one billion views, according to some estimates.Needless to say, US establishment politicians and pundits denounced Carlson's show as a "pack of lies" before it was aired."Western elites are desperately trying to control the media and are misusing law in order to suppress dissent," continued the ex-UN expert. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/ex-un-expert-if-assange-is-extradited-to-us-no-journalist-in-world-will-be-safe-1116904070.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230225/sy-hersh-on-us-proxy-war-on-russia-snowdens-expose--nord-stream-sabotage-1107779243.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230209/whos-jake-sullivan-the-man-who-reportedly-assembled-dream-team-to-destroy-nord-stream-1107273707.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240115/death-of-us-journo-lira-means-biden-jeopardizes-american-lives-from-ukraine-to-mideast-1116171260.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240211/carlsons-interview-putin-and-trump-seen-as-threat-by-davos-globalists--wall-street-analyst-1116731246.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240216/tucker-carlson-dont-believe-your-lying-eyes--1116820122.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240215/us-sanctions-against-journalist-carlson-would-show-true-face-of-dictatorship-in-us---putin-1116789243.html ukraine russia sweden Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ekaterina Blinova Ekaterina Blinova 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 Ekaterina Blinova julian assange, wikileaks founder, extradition of julian assange, us whistleblower chelsea manning, nsa contractor edward snowden, us spying program prism, us journalist gonzalo lira died in ukrainian custody, tucker carlson's interview with vladimir putin, sanctions against tucker carlson, carlson accused of treason, seymour hersh's nord stream bombshell ignored by us press, freedom of speech RICHMONDInmates and their loved ones will not have free prison phone calls anytime soon, but lawmakers are working on legislation to keep rates low. Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, sponsored House Bill 801, which passed 56-41 with some Republican support. It passed on the final day a bill could be heard in its respective chamber. The bill originally proposed for the Virginia Department of Corrections to provide free telephone and video calls to inmates, and make a minimum of one telephone available for every 10 inmates per housing unit. Instead, the bill was amended with language that VADOC be required to use the lowest rate. Lawmakers also eliminated language that would have added more telephones per inmate. Rasoul did not respond to a phone request. Prison telephone and video systems are outsourced through third-party companies. A phone call costs an inmate just over 4 cents per minute and a video call costs 20 cents per minute, according to the bills fiscal impact statement. VADOC reported the cost has remained the same since 2015. It would cost approximately $14.4 million to provide the proposed free phone and video calls, VADOC estimated. Del. Tony Wilt, R-Harrisonburg, criticized the bills cost, and simply stated nothings free during the bills committee hearing. Del. Holly Seibold, D-Fairfax, argued the bill is the best bang for our buck. I would love to see those who reenter society in a great mental state so that they are able to get a job, reemerge into society and connect with their family, Seibold said. If we know this is the best way to do so, I think this is a great way to spend part of our $1.5 billion budget. VADOC also has an active request for proposals to implement a new system utilizing tablets and an independent Wi-Fi network, according to Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax, who sponsored the Senate version of the bill. Boyskos bill was continued to next year for budgetary reasons. Legislators have tried to make prison phone calls free for the past two sessions. Boysko sponsored a similar bill last year, after she was part of a work group to make recommendations about the reduction or elimination of inmate fees. The group cited research that people are less likely to become repeat offenders if they have increased access to communication. There could also be decreases in prison misconduct, good order in facilities and stronger parent-child relationships. Such access to free phone calls could be considered a rehabilitative program, rather than a service. They're already removed in person, but to remove their ability to just connect with their children, with their husbands or wives and their parents, it's an additional hard, difficult situation for them, Boysko said. Boysko worked in 2020 to reform the earned sentence-crediting system and decided there is a lot of reform that needs to be done regarding incarceration in the country. People who are incarcerated might need to be prepared and connected to the community when they do get to go home, Boysko said. I want them to be law-abiding, successful members of society instead of coming out and having absolutely no connections with people and not really having a grounded understanding of what is expected of them, Boysko said. I think that we're all safer when their support system is there to help them to navigate life after incarceration. Paulettra James is a founder of The Sistas in Prison Reform, which describes itself as a group that believes in redemption, rehabilitation, and remorse. James husband has been incarcerated for robbery for over two decades. It is hard to stay in contact with her incarcerated loved ones because the phone bills can range between $300 and $400 a month, she said. She also pays the bill for her husband to talk to his parents, who cannot afford it with their fixed-income. It's very important for him to be able to maintain contact with them, James said. Her husbands nephew died three years ago before they had a chance to meet in person, according to James. The only way they could talk was over the phone. Its moments like that, that you realize how crucial and how critical it is for them to keep that communication, James said. Incarceration should not take away the status of inmates as human beings, even if they made bad choices, James said. Before anything, they are a person, they are a husband, they are a son, theyre an uncle, theyre a nephew, theyre a brother, theyre a sister, theyre a mother, James said. They are loved as people, James said. Capital News Service is a program of Virginia Commonwealth University's Robertson School of Media and Culture. Students in the program provide state government coverage for a variety of media outlets in Virginia. Leaders with the Platte Institute say that the proposed EPIC Option isnt a viable solution to Nebraskas tax woes. Twin Cities Development hosted a third presentation on the EPIC Option, a proposed tax initiative that would repeal Nebraskas property, income, inheritance and sales taxes and replace them with a consumption tax. The third presentation was delivered over Zoom by members of the Platte Institute, an Omaha-based conservative policy institute. Presenters included institute CEO Jim Vokal and Chief Strategy Officer and former state legislator Jim Smith. While Vokal and Smith explained that the Platte Institute leaders feel that Nebraskas current tax system is flawed and places too high a burden on taxpayers, the EPIC Option is not a valid solution. They made four points that they thought could be potential problems. I have to disagree with Senator Erdman in this particular approach, Smith said. While a consumption tax is not new, something of this scale has never been attempted at the state level. Smith said his first concern with the ballot initiative and proposed legislation was that it would have a regressive effect on the stability and diversity of Nebraskas tax base. He pointed to his time working with the Nebraska Public Power District as an example saying that the company always made sure to have a diverse portfolio of energy sources so it was never too reliant on one particular source. Because we have that diverse portfolio of revenues, it helps to create a stable environment for meeting the critical needs of government, Smith said. With the consumption tax, he said, all state services would have to be funded from one source, without any recourse if those funds came up short. Secondly, he addressed concerns that while a consumption tax is not a novel idea, it has never been attempted at a large scale at the state level. Although he contended that it could work at the federal level to supplant income taxes, it would significantly decrease local tax revenues by depriving entities of their property tax bases. We like to think of ourselves on the leading edge, but this would put us on the bleeding edge, Smith said. While some proponents of the EPIC Option have said that the proposal would not impact local control on their tax bases, Smith disagreed with this position. Under the proposed legislation, LB 79, that accompanies the ballot initiative, revenues from the consumption tax would be divided by regional officials appointed by county commissioners. Local municipalities would send their budgets up the chain to counties and these regional officials who would appropriate funds. Since the tax would be collected centrally, Smith said, there was no other way for the funds to be dispersed and questioned what the process would be if regional and local officials disagreed. Who would be that new state bureaucracy that would review local budgets and make a determination if the budget submitted by Scottsbluff is appropriate or if it needed to be trimmed back? Smith asked. Finally, Smith said there are concerns that the EPIC Option would make Nebraska less competitive compared to neighboring states like Wyoming and South Dakota. Neither of those states impose an income tax and the proposed 7.5% rate under the ballot initiative would place Nebraskas consumption tax rate above Iowas sales tax rate of 6%. Smith and Vokal also pointed to several pieces of legislation currently proposed that they thought would be more effective tax relief for Nebraskans. The first of these proposed bills discussed by Vokal was LB 1414, proposed by state Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of District 39, which would place a limit on the property taxes that a municipality can collect in a year. Another, LB 1241, proposed by Sen. Brad von Gillern of District 4, would force municipalities to lower their levy rates to offset any increases in valuation. They said they felt that both of these options would be more effective tax reform than the EPIC Option. The EPIC Option comprises of two ballot initiatives that would amend the state constitution. The first would prohibit the state from assessing any property, income, inheritance or sales taxes. The second would implement a 7.5% consumption tax on all new goods purchased in the state with an exception for groceries purchased for off-premises consumption. Proponents of the EPIC Option are circulating petitions to place the two amendments on the ballot for the general election in November. For them to succeed, they must gather signatures from 10% of the registered voters in the state, that 10% must comprise of 5% of the registered voters from at least 38 of Nebraskas 93 counties. Proponents of the amendments have until July 5, four months before the Nov. 5 election, to reach those thresholds. Twin Cities Development has hosted forums on the EPIC Tax Option, though TCD Executive Director Jordan Diedrich has reiterated that the organization has no stance and has only hosted the presentations to educate the public on the issue. For Star-Herald coverage of each of the forums, visit starherald.com. A review by the United States Postal Service has led to concerns among Panhandle residents and businesses about another move for the processing of mail. On Jan. 10, USPS officials released a letter expressing its intent to conduct a mail processing facility review of the North Platte Processing and Distribution Center. The review is a part of the Postal Services larger Delivering for America plan, a 10-year, $40 billion strategic plan that postal officials say will improve efficiency and the financial state of the service. That plan was signed into law under the Postal Service Reform Act in April 2022. The letter of intent says the purpose of the review is to inform the best allocation of resources and strategies to improve customer service and to achieve significant cost savings through operational precision and efficiency. The letter states three points the review will focus on trying to meet these goals: First, the review would examine if the larger postal service could be increased by transferring services conducted at the North Platte facility to a larger processing and distribution center in Denver. Second, a look at improvements that can be made to the North Platte facility regardless of where services are conducted to increase efficiency. Third, whether those services could be improved by adding the functions of a sorting and delivery center. Under the plan, a number of facilities would be converted into sorting and delivery facilities where mail can be consolidated and sorted before being sent to larger regional distribution centers. No matter the results of the review, officials state in the letter, the North Platte facility will not be closed and there will be no layoffs associated with the review. It also says it is highly likely, that following the review, the North Platte facility will be repurposed as a sorting and delivery center or local processing center, or both. According to the USPS, local processing centers sort letters and flats to individual mail carrier routes in the regional area. Regardless of these assurances, Rep. Adrian Smith released a letter to USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy on Feb. 6 expressing his displeasure with what he sees as the continued consolidation of USPS services in western Nebraska. Smiths letter can be found on his website, adriansmith.house.gov. In that letter he referenced previous restructuring plans of the postal service that saw the closure and consolidation of services from facilities in Grand Island and Norfolk to Omaha in 2013 and the consolidation of the Alliance facility to North Platte. In an interview with the Star-Herald, Smith said that he felt the previous changes had the opposite of their intended effect on his constituents. My underlying concern is, the previous changes at the postal service centers that (were) made in the interest of efficiency, have not delivered efficiency, Smith said. He said he has heard complaints from constituents that they have seen longer delivery times on their mail. He cited an example using letters sent from Gering to Alliance as an example. He also cited the postal services on statistics to show that delivery times are taking longer. In a USPS report issued in the second quarter of fiscal year 2024, the on-time rate for mail in the Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota region was 72.6%, nearly a 20% decrease from the national rate of 91% in fiscal 2022. Smith expressed some frustration at the decisions being made at the postal service. While officials may suggest the changes lead to more efficiency at the national level, he said, they would have a negative impact on rural areas like western Nebraska. The plan does not align with the needs of smaller communities that may not benefit from the centralization of services. I think pursuing more flexibilities would enable post offices to identify how they can be more efficient rather than centralizing every single decision, Smith said. In a similar review of the Cheyenne Processing and Distribution Center in November of last year, the Postal Services initial findings indicated that they would repurpose the facility as a local processing center and transfer the larger processing and distribution services to the facility in Denver. According to USPS, the findings of the review should be publicized roughly a month or two after the review is conducted. If the findings of the review support the move of services a summary of the review will be available online at about.usps.com at least one week before a notice for a public input meeting on the findings. In the meantime, local community members can submit their comments through an online survey at surveymonkey.com/r/mpfr-north-platte-ne. The Star-Herald reached out to postmasters at local post offices, as well as local postal union representatives, but was declined comment. GREELEY, Neb. Better to walk out than get thrown out. And with that, Robert Bernt, an organic farmer in central Nebraska, turned and left the old school gymnasium where the county zoning board was evaluating a proposed wind farm. Silver-tongued and corrupt were some of the allegations hed leveled at the Greeley County officials in that tense June meeting. The project was being sought by area farmers who viewed it as a way to shore up their family incomes and feed tax revenue into local schools and government. Most of the several dozen people in attendance shared Bernts anger. They accused local officials of aiding China, a major player in renewables, and jeopardizing neighbors health and property values. And they disputed the projects promised economic benefits. One opponent called on the group to join him in prayer as he beseeched God to steer officials away from the plan. Most stood with him. An epic and consequential battle is unfolding in Nebraska over renewable energy. From the Panhandle to the states eastern edge, people have packed local meetings, filed lawsuits and flexed political power. Its a high-stakes fight, with property rights, the character and economic well-being of rural Nebraska and health of the planet all at play. Beyond those other concerns, opponents have long worried about the changes turbines bring to the states scenic skies and the intermittent nature of renewable energy. My bottom line, the alliances bottom line, is to protect public safety, Bernt said by phone, referencing the Facebook group he is a member of, the Greeley County Alliance for Wise Energy. Scientists say fossil fuels must be replaced quickly because human activity has increased the amount of heat-trapping gasses in Earths atmosphere to their highest levels in at least 3 million years. Waiting for the consequences of that hotter, more energetic atmosphere to fully play out before acting will be devastating, they say. Since the 1980s, Nebraska has seen a six-fold increase in $1 billion-plus weather disasters that affect the state, according to federal weather data. Worsening disasters lie ahead, the states own scientists have said. Billions of federal dollars are available to assist with the nationwide energy transition, and Nebraska communities are well poised to tap that money, said John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union. Nationally, the state ranks in the top five for wind power potential and top 15 for solar potential. Instead, a half dozen Nebraska counties have enacted some of the nations strictest zoning regulations, said Matthew Eisenson, an attorney in the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at New Yorks Columbia University. Most of those are targeted at wind, which has seen the most growth in the state and now provides almost one-third of Nebraskas electricity. (The Omaha Public Power District credited wind energy with helping keep the lights on when Januarys bitter cold forced it to shut down its coal plants.) Stanton County has effectively banned wind turbines in its regulations, according to the Sabin Center. Wheeler and Buffalo counties have a 5-mile distance or setback between turbines and certain types of property. Dawson and Thomas counties have added a 3-mile setback. Using 3 miles as an example, Eisenson said a farmer who wants to erect a wind turbine would need more than 36 square miles of land an area more than twice the size of Kearney to create that buffer zone. You need to have massive tracts of land to even install a single turbine, he said. The restrictions and similar actions appear to have derailed some wind projects, including in Dawson, Gage and Butler counties. NextEra Energy Resources, the worlds largest developer of wind and solar projects, said it has already invested about $814 million in Nebraska and remains committed to continuing despite the opposition. That includes in Greeley County, where its developing the proposed wind farm. We believe that well-sited projects can provide significant benefits to the counties where they are built, NextEra told the Flatwater Free Press. Industrial scale solar projects are moving forward despite opposition in Cass, Saunders and Lancaster counties. In some communities, opposition has led to lawsuits, including in Lancaster, Saline and Webster counties. A Cherry County case filed by opponents of a wind project went all the way to the Nebraska Supreme Court before being thrown out. George Johnson, the Cherry County planning board chairman who found himself and family at the center of the controversy said he resigned over the vitriol. It got so out of hand, he said. There were just one or two people who were, pardon my language, bat**** crazy. They would not listen to facts. Hansen said the issue has become so fraught that Nebraska communities are losing their ability to compromise. We are no longer having people of good will coming together to protect our public health and safety, he said. The goal of the opposition is to come up with regulations that will kill projects. By doing so, they take away their neighbors rights. Meetings in Greeley County became so crowded and so combative that the county moved them from a small room at the courthouse to an old school gymnasium. (Opponents) were very angry and were using physical closeness and aggression, Greeley County Attorney Cindy Bassett said. We had people shouting and screaming, coming up to the table. They were in county governmental personnels faces. Advocates of the Greeley project, including local landowners, had worked 15 years to bring it to fruition. They talked at that June meeting about how they hoped the revenue would help their local schools, keep the center pivots running and make farming more sustainable. We ought to be able to market this product just as any other person markets a product they grow on their land, landowner Brian Gydesen said. County officials worked for about three years to craft regulations to govern renewable energy, Bassett said. Those meetings were publicized and open to the public. Not a single person showed up ever, she said. The project only became contentious in the last year or so after the zoning rules were written and the planning commission recommended NextEras application to the county board. Much of the oppositions concerns mirrored arguments made in other communities. Bernt and others said they believe there are health effects from the noise, vibrations and flickering shadows generated by wind turbines, and environmental risks from the concrete bases and decommissioned blades. Some asked if turbines could change the weather or would harm endangered species. They worried the turbines would lower property values and affect farm income by limiting aerial spraying. They also worried about damage to roads and taxpayers being left to pay decommissioning costs if the developer abandoned the turbines. Studies have found that the impact on health and property values tends to correlate to local attitudes. The more opposed a community is to wind, for example, the more likely property values are affected. Likewise, the severity of health effects seem to correlate to a persons feelings about wind turbines along with their ability to see and hear them. China also has become an argument, with opponents keying in on the countrys dominance in renewables manufacturing, its own dirty energy practices and even the possibility it would use turbines to spy on America. Whats to stop Red China from putting monitoring devices, and devices to disrupt communications, atop the towers? Mike Conley asked at the Greeley County meeting. Absolutely nothing. The backlash to renewable energy comes at a cost, Hansen said. Renewable energy is poised to become the largest source of good paying jobs in rural Nebraska while generating income for some landowners and building a new tax base. Opportunity only knocks at the door so many times. ... All we have to do is say yes. Based on public and private data, he estimates that commercial scale wind power already generates more than $17 million in landowner income and $17 million in tax revenue in Nebraska. Those projects, he said, have added $6.1 billion to the states tax base, slightly more than ethanol plants. These folks are thumbing their noses at their childs future, Hansen said of the opposition. Nebraska isnt an outlier. Across the U.S. and in other countries the transition to cleaner energy is being met with increasing pushback. Some supporters of renewable energy suspect that outside interests are driving the local opposition. They point to articles by national opponents posted on local Facebook pages, local opposition groups appearing at meetings in matching T-shirts, opponents traveling across the state to encourage opposition and some national figures coming to Nebraska. Its money, its resources, all in the background, its in the dark, said David Levy, an Omaha-based attorney for renewable energy developers. Nobody is admitting that they are getting resources, getting encouraged or being paid by groups, but I believe thats whats happening. Bernt and others, like Emily Haxby, a Gage County supervisor who worked to enact strict zoning rules in her county, dismiss those claims. There was no outside influence here, Haxby said. Our community just came together. Haxby said its not fair for one property owner to make money off a wind or solar farm if their neighbor experiences harm without being included in the process. We need to have regulations that allow community decisions, she said. Opponents have used social media, notably Facebook, to form local groups to fight projects, including: Stop K-Junction Solar, Stop Hallam Wind, Our Voices Count, Nebraska Wind Watchers and McCool Junction Responsible Solar. Nationally, opposition to renewable energy is fueled by a mix of disinformation and vested interests trying to block progress, said David Anderson, a spokesman for the Energy and Policy Institute, a renewable energy watchdog organization. Some of that information, he said, originates from national blogs, state groups and media outlets. Some of it is organic. Its not unusual, he said, to see groups that cut and paste reports that exaggerate the cost of renewable energy policies. Two national advocates of fossil fuels brought their message to Nebraska last year: Daniel Turner and Robert Bryce. Both have had ties to think tanks that receive funding from the oil industry. A third national figure, John Droz Jr., an outspoken opponent of renewable energy, contributed heavily to an analysis opposing a wind project in Jefferson County. Turner, executive director of Power The Future, spoke in Greeley County after being recruited by resident Trevor Nekoliczak, who heard Turner on a podcast. Nekoliczak said he wanted a counterpoint to the wind developers. You can find a lot of information, its just whether you trust that information. Who to trust that has been a long journey for me, Nekoliczak said. Its still up in the air, trust no one, and verify everything. Turner told the Flatwater Free Press that he traveled to Nebraska at the expense of his organization. He said he encouraged people to know their rights before signing a lease. People are longing for clarity and I offer clarity, he said. Ultimately, opposition didnt stop the NextEra project in Greeley County. Still, Bernt takes pride in what he sees as precedent-setting conditions: the wind developer must provide decommissioning and road repair funds upfront. Bassett, the county attorney, said NextEra will have to put $12 million for decommissioning and $5 million for road repairs into an escrow account. Any interest will accrue to the county. It was the strong conviction of the county commission that we didnt want to be left holding the bag if something happens, she said. Greeley County, like several other Nebraska counties, has instituted a moratorium on all new renewable energy projects while it revisits its zoning regulations. NextEra says the project outside of Greeley will include up to 41 turbines, and generate $19 million in tax revenue and $27 million in landowner income over its 30-year lifespan. Bassett said she believes Nebraskans need to take a breather and figure out how to work through divisive issues. Other forms of energy will become flash points at the local level, including nuclear power, hydro and geothermal, she said. Ive been doing this 25 years and Ive never seen anything like this, Bassett said. We absolutely need a better way of talking about this because more conflict lies ahead. Syria's Cham Wings recently chartered an Airbus A320 from the United Arab Emirates through a shell airline to circumvent Western sanctions. Syrias Cham Wings recently chartered an Airbus A320 from the United Arab Emirates through a shell airline to circumvent Western sanctions. Cham Wings breached European and U.S. sanctions by utilizing Queens Air, a shell airline that registered the aircraft under its name in Kyrgyzstan with the designation Ex-32012 before its transfer to the UAE and subsequent lease to Cham Wings. Cham Wings manipulated the original aircraft codes and data, changing them from Ex-32012 to YK-BAA, an outdated code associated with a Cham Wings-owned aircraft that had been decommissioned due to maintenance issues. Aircraft and airline ownership tracking databases have documented the ownership history of the aircraft since its initial release in 2005, tracing back to its first ownership by Taca Airlines in the Republic of El Salvador until 2013. Ownership of the aircraft then transferred to Ftai in the United States until 2019, followed by Sky One in the UAE until January 2023, before ultimately being acquired by the unidentified Queens Air. The aircraft conducted its inaugural flight from the UAE to Minsk, Belarus in January, subsequently arriving in Damascus on February 13 and commencing operations under the Cham Wings banner, serving routes between Damascus, Baghdad, Erbil, Kuwait, and Muscat. On January 22, the European Union imposed sanctions on Syrian individuals and entities suspected of aiding the Syrian regime, which included Cham Wings Company, owned by the Shammout Trading Group, for its alleged involvement in the transportation of Syrian mercenaries, arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and money laundering. 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. Al-Watan newspaper, known for its alignment with the Syrian regime, refuted claims on Tuesday regarding official plans for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's prospective visit to Damascus. Al-Watan newspaper, known for its alignment with the Syrian regime, refuted claims on Tuesday regarding official plans for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans prospective visit to Damascus. The newspaper cited an insider source stating that there are no official arrangements for a potential visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Syria. Contrarily, Rai al-Youm, led by Palestinian journalist and supporter of the Syrian regime, Abdul Bari Atwan, reported, based on undisclosed sources, that the Saudi crown prince intends to visit Damascus in the near future, aiming to convene a summit with President Bashar al-Assad. The report suggested that the timing of the visit may coincide with the conclusion of the Israeli war in Gaza or following the implementation of a ceasefire between Hamas and Tel Aviv. It speculated that the anticipated visit of the Saudi crown prince to Damascus could mark a significant milestone in bilateral relations between the two nations. Additionally, it could potentially influence the Syrian regimes efforts to restore its Arab relations and address the ongoing economic challenges in Syria. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. A key advisor to the International Coalition underscored the commitment to bolstering the alliance with the SDF, according to Athr Press. On February 20, 2024, a significant meeting took place between commanders from the Marine forces of the International Coalition and officials from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Hajin Military Council. The gathering was aimed at discussing the prevailing security challenges in the region and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation. The Hajin Military Council, through a Facebook post on Monday, revealed that the meeting led to the formulation of new strategies for collaboration, focusing on addressing security risks and strengthening the partnership between the Coalition and the SDF. A key advisor to the International Coalition underscored the commitment to bolstering the alliance with the SDF, including plans for joint patrols, training, and maneuvers designed to improve the combat efficiency of the fighters. This was reported by the Kurdish media outlet North. Simultaneously, in Hasakah, Athar Press correspondents reported on American forces conducting joint military exercises with the SDF at the Kharab al-Jir airport base, situated in the northeastern countryside of al-Yarubiyah. These exercises are part of the ongoing efforts to solidify military cooperation. This meeting occurs amidst ongoing tensions in eastern Syria, with Arab clans launching attacks against SDF positions. In response, the International Coalitions Inspector General, Robert Strausch, highlighted a strategic redeployment of SDF forces and equipment to the Deir-ez-Zor Governorate to counter these threats. Moreover, the United States has reiterated its commitment to maintaining its military presence in Syria. Acting US Deputy Secretary of State, Victoria Nuland, firmly stated on February 1 that the US has no plans for withdrawal. This stance was echoed by SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi, who, in early February, received assurances from Washington about the continued support and presence of American forces in Syria. These assurances were conveyed through various channels, including the US State Department, the White House, and the Pentagon. Former American ambassador to Syria, Robert Ford, also confirmed the Biden administrations determination to support the SDF as a vital local partner and maintain American forces in eastern Syria. Currently, approximately 900 American soldiers are stationed across several bases in Syria, which have been the target of numerous attacks since October 17th, as a reaction to the US military support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. 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-Iraqi Joint Economic Committee commenced its meetings in Baghdad, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation, al-Baath reports. On February 20, 2024, the Syrian-Iraqi Joint Economic Committee commenced its meetings in Baghdad, marking a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation between Syria and Iraq. The committee, co-chaired by Mohammad Samer al-Khalil, Syrias Minister of Economy and Trade, and Atheer Daoud Al-Ghurairi, Iraqs Minister of Commerce, aims to fortify the already strong ties between the two nations, emphasizing mutual benefits and integration. During the event, Minister al-Khalil highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between Syria and Iraq, founded on mutual interests and collective benefits for both peoples. He expressed Syrias eagerness to expand and diversify bilateral trade, focusing on increasing the levels of imports and exports with Iraq. Echoing this sentiment, Minister Al-Ghurairi articulated the Iraqi governments commitment to establishing balanced regional relationships and fostering sustainable development. He underscored the importance of enhancing economic ties, boosting trade volumes, and overcoming existing barriers to trade between the two countries. Al-Ghurairi further noted the Iraqi governments efforts to improve economic performance, create a favourable environment for foreign trade, and stimulate investment. He emphasized the aim of establishing joint industrial and commercial ventures to elevate trade exchange rates with Syria, thereby serving the mutual interests of both countries. 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. Ahmed Katie, a Syrian activist and businessman known for advocating for Syrian refugees in Turkey, has been arrested by a Turkish court on charges of espionage for the French intelligence agency, DGSE. The allegations, according to Middle east Eye, claim Katie was engaged in disseminating false information about Turkeys treatment of Syrian refugees and its immigration policies to French officials, purportedly to undermine Turkeys position in Europe. Katie, who has been a vocal critic of the Syrian regime and a refugee in Turkey for nearly a decade, was taken into custody in mid-December after being missing for over two weeks. Despite his contributions to the Syrian diaspora community in Turkey, Katie sought asylum in France due to growing anti-refugee sentiments in Turkey, fearing for his and his familys safety. His lawyer, Halim Yilmaz, has denied the espionage charges and plans to contest them in court. Katies arrest and the charges against him have raised concerns about the targeting of human rights activists and refugees in Turkey, especially those connected to foreign organizations. The US Recovered Over $600 Million in ISIS-Linked Funds They Should Go to Syrian and Iraqi Victims JustSecurity.org reports the recovery of over $600 million in ISIS-linked funds by the United States, suggesting that these funds should be directed to the victims of ISIS and ANF (Al-Nusrah Front) in Syria and Iraq. This recommendation comes in the context of a federal lawsuit filed by over 400 Yazidi Americans against the French cement company Lafarge S.A. and its Syrian subsidiary for allegedly aiding ISIS and ANF. The article highlights the historical plea agreement with Lafarge, where the company admitted to providing material support to terrorism and agreed to pay a significant fine and forfeiture. Despite this, the direct compensation to victims from such proceedings remains complex and limited, raising questions about how best to utilize seized assets to benefit victims of terrorism. The authors advocate for the U.S. Department of Justice to use its discretion to allocate a portion of the forfeited funds to non-U.S. victims of ISIS and ANF, emphasizing the need for a transparent and victim-centered approach to asset forfeiture linked to atrocity crimes. 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 family of Syrian refugee opposition figure Yassin Mohammed al-Atar, 31, announced their son's commencement of a hunger strike to protest his continued unjustified detention by Lebanese General Security. A week ago, the family of Syrian refugee opposition figure Yassin Mohammed al-Atar, 31, announced their sons commencement of a hunger strike to protest his continued unjustified detention by Lebanese General Security. Earlier this month, General Security had initiated deportation proceedings to Syria, only to reverse course following media and human rights pressure, rescinding their decision against the opposition figure wanted by the Assad regime, without providing any legal basis. Atars decision to embark on an open hunger strike coincided with General Securitys decision to detain him until his scheduled hearing in May, as per a referral from Public Prosecutor of Cassation Ghassan Oueidat, citing support for Article 17 of the Public Security Law. Lawyer Muhammad Sablouh, representing Atar and serving as director of the Cedar Center for Legal Studies, emphasized to Al-Modon that the decision to detain him in Public Security facilities is entirely unlawful, given that his hearing is scheduled three months later (subject to postponement). Sablouh stated, We exerted significant media and human rights pressure to halt Atars deportation, and the arrest decision serves as evidence that judicial and security authorities recognized the risk of kidnapping, torture, and even death that he faces if deported. Previous reports in Al-Modon have highlighted the courts decision to prohibit Atar from travelling, aligning with his status in Syria as an opposition activist involved in the Syrian revolution. He Hails from an opposition family in the city of al-Qusayr, Homs Governorate, and is sought by the Syrian regime. Atars father, Muhammad Atar, remains forcibly disappeared and detained by the regime, enduring torture and a judicial sentence. Crime of unlawful detention? Accordingly, Sablouh added, Yassin Atar has already posted the 300 million Syrian pounds bail for his release, following a ruling by the Military Court of Cassation in December 2023, after serving a 10-year prison sentence, of which he completed seven. So why detain him until now? Today, we are deeply concerned about his health condition, especially after his hunger strike, as General Security has allowed us to visit him only once. Despite our persistent efforts to advocate for his release within the bounds of the law, our pleas have fallen on deaf ears among those responsible, who have inflicted grave injustice upon Atar, from the moment of the deportation decision until now. We fear that his situation will further deteriorate as his uncertainty persists, compounded by the ongoing mistreatment of detainees facing deportation by General Security. Sablouh concluded by emphasizing that what has befallen refugee Yassin Atarsets a dangerous precedent and constitutes a crime of unlawful detention. He pledged to continue collaborating with human rights defenders until al-Eters release and justice are secured for him. The case of Syrian young man Yassin Atar, along with all its surrounding circumstances from his arrest on charges of involvement in terrorist organizations to the issuance of the deportation order, is not an isolated incident. Dozens of young Syrians find themselves arbitrarily detained in Lebanese prisons without any criminal charges (misdemeanor or felony) on Lebanese soil. Similar to Atar, they are often accused of belonging to terrorist organizations, despite some having only engaged in peaceful opposition activities. These individuals sought refuge in Lebanon to escape the oppression of the Syrian regime, which levies similar charges against them, ultimately leading to their silent deportation. 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 Kelso High School commons is set to be transformed into a mattress showroom next month to raise money for the schools music programs. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 2 people can select from more than 25 mattress styles on display and priced below retail, including brands like Simmons Beautyrest. The mattresses will include warranties, be made to order and available up to three weeks after the event, according to a press release from the Kelso Music Boosters, parents who help fund the high schools music and guard programs. Pillows, bed frames and mattress protectors will also be for sale, and delivery and financing will be available. If you go What: Kelso High School Music Mattress Fundraiser. When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., March 2. Where: Kelso High School commons, 1904 Allen St., Kelso. Info: www.facebook.com/CFSportland The event is in conjunction with Custom Fundraising Solutions, a company that helps thousands of schools across the country with similar fundraisers, the press release says. Kelso Music Boosters plans to host the new event annually. Oregon senators considered the question of whether to move the state to permanent standard time, but did not draw a final conclusion Tuesday. After a spirited debate and a tied vote, the Senate will likely get a chance to reconsider whether or not Oregon should ditch daylight saving time after new language is added to the bill. Senate Bill 1548, the bill that was up for a vote Tuesday, is Oregons most recent attempt to stop biannual time changes in the state. The bill would end daylight saving time in the part of the state in the Pacific Time Zone for good. The Oregon Legislature passed permanent daylight saving time in 2019, but that effort requires an act of Congress and has effectively stalled. Advocacy groups also pushed back on the idea of a permanent daylight saving time, pointing out that in the past switches to that time were unpopular and increased a variety of problems, including deaths of children who were hit by vehicles walking to school in the dark. While most senators who spoke Tuesday seemed to support the idea of ditching the switch in theory, some were concerned that Oregon making the change before neighboring states could cause chaos at the border. For two-thirds of the year, said Sen. Michael Dembrow, a Portland Democrat, Portland will be an hour different from Vancouver and southwest Washington. Commuters across the Columbia River, he said, will need to change their watches two times a day. Sen. Kim Thatcher, a Keizer Republican who is a chief sponsor of the bill, disagreed that that difference would be more than quirky at best and annoying at worst. Three-quarters of the folks who have written to me in my email support this change to standard time, Thatcher said. That also bears out in the testimony. Thatcher also noted that while this bill doesnt require buy-in from neighboring states, Idaho, Washington and California are all working on similar measures. She said that if there is a lag time between when Oregon adopts the change and other states do, it wont be very long. Sen. Elizabeth Steiner, a Portland Democrat, supported Thatcher, adding that as a doctor, she believes permanent standard time has many health benefits, both physical and mental. I hear the concerns about switching and the challenges of the borders that we face, Steiner said. But, she added, People are capable of doing this. The problem, she said, is that all the West Coast states are similarly scared to go first. This is a big game of chicken, she said. Nobody wants to be the first state to do this. But she, like Thatcher, believes that once Oregon commits to the change, neighboring states will follow. The initial vote came out in a tie. As typically happens in those cases, Thatcher changed her vote to a no so she could be on the prevailing side and thus able to ask that the bill be reconsidered. Now, the bill will move to the Senate Rules Committee, Thatcher said. There, a trigger clause could be added to restrict Oregon from officially ending daylight saving time until neighboring states do as well, Thatcher said. If that were to happen, the Senate would have another chance to vote on it. If senators pass it, it will move on to the House. Regardless of what happens with the bill, this year, daylight saving time begins 2 a.m. on March 10. February 21, 2024 14:10 Apple is developing a smart ring and a foldable iPhone. The first device is clearly being created to compete with the Samsung Galaxy Ring, while the second will help the company penetrate the rapidly growing foldable device market. Smart ring The ring, according to MacRumors, will be similar to a fitness tracker and will be able to collect information about the users health. With its help, it is expected to be possible to measure heart rate, monitor ECG and track sleep. It is possible that the smart ring will also receive functions for controlling other devices and the possibility of contactless NFC payments. According to the publication, Apple has been working on the concept of a smart ring for several years, as evidenced by several patents registered by the company. It is possible that the development of the device was accelerated by the announcement of the Galaxy Ring from Samsung. Like MacRumors, the company is now keeping a close eye on the market to see if Samsung's Smart Ring could become a more convenient and energy-efficient watch alternative. The Galaxy Ring is expected to go into mass production in the second half of 2024. It is still unknown when a similar ring from Apple will appear. No matter how much Apple is in a hurry now, it is unlikely to be able to release a smart ring faster than its competitor. Foldable iPhone Apple is also actively developing a foldable iPhone. According to GizmoChina, the company plans to release a new product in the next two years. According to a report from South Korean source Alpha Biz, cited by GizmoChina, the foldable iPhone could arrive as early as September 2026. The company hopes to sell 50 million devices in the first year, which indicates Apple's confidence in the new product, since this goal is significantly higher than the current size of the foldable device market. To speed up development, Apple brought in some of the employees who had previously designed the Vision Pro mixed reality headset to the project. Perhaps the company hopes to achieve a durable flexible display with the help of people who were able to solve some rather complex technical problems when developing the headset. According to Alpha Biz, company employees are now working with two prototypes of a folding iPhone: one of them is similar to the Galaxy Z Flip, the second is similar to the Galaxy Z Fold. Apple is most likely leaning towards the second option, since the large and thick case allows the device to use more durable mechanisms. Pure Storage announced the appointment of Fredy Cheung as Area Vice President for Asia, covering ASEAN, Greater China, India and Korea. Based in Hong Kong, Cheung will take charge of sales operations in the region, working closely with Pure Storages growing customer base to utilise the companys innovative and sustainable all-flash solutions that can be consumed as-a-service for business advantage. Artificial intelligence (AI), data center modernisation, environmental sustainability and data protection are some of the biggest issues facing organisations in Asia and driving growth in the storage market. According to IDC Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Storage Systems Tracker 2023 Q3 Forecast (December 2023 Release), the external OEM storage market in Asia (Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Peoples Republic of China, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand) is expected to grow from US$9.4 billion in 2024 to US$10.9 billion in 2027. IDCs data also showed Pure Storage registering the fastest year-on-year growth of 46.6% in calendar Q3 last year across those same markets. Cheungs long experience helping customers in the region solve their business challenges with technology will be critical as Pure Storage builds on its growth momentum in the region. Cheung joins Pure Storage with over 20 years in leadership roles in technology companies such as Cisco and 3Com covering most parts of Asia. His strong track record in building high-performing teams, guiding end-user organisations on their digital transformation journeys and nurturing highly motivated channel partners have earned him wide respect in the industry. Nathan Hall, Vice President, Asia Pacific & Japan, Pure Storage, said, Im delighted to welcome Fredy to Pure Storages senior leadership team in the Asia Pacific and Japan region. Hes a proven leader in the regions technology space and will help us take our growth in Asia to the next level. Pure Storage is the only enterprise storage vendor today that can deliver environmentally sustainable true all-flash storage solutions for every workload across the entire range of the price and performance spectrum. This is a unique position to be in and I cant think of a better leader than Fredy to help us take this message to organisations throughout Asia. Fredy Cheung, Area Vice President, Asia, Pure Storage, said, The Asia region has tremendous potential for growth with many organisations investing in technologies to transform their businesses. Im excited to take on this challenge of bringing Pure Storages cutting-edge all-flash solutions to these enterprises and help them through priorities such as AI, environmental sustainability, data centre modernisation and data protection. Cynthia Ho, Associate Research Director, Enterprise Infrastructure, IDC Asia Pacific, said, Though the external storage market decelerated, showing slowness in 2023, IDC remains confident to see a rebound in Asia Pacific (excluding Japan and ANZ) in the next 12 to 24 months. Enterprises are gearing up their digital efforts to survive in todays increasingly competitive market landscape resulting in ever-escalating growth of data and greater needs for data protection boosting demand for agile and resilient storage infrastructure. 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 message on LockBit's site said law envorcement agencies had taken it over. An international operation led by UK and US law enforcement has severely disrupted "the world's most harmful cybercrime group", the Russian-linked ransomware specialist LockBit, officials announced Tuesday. LockBit and its affiliates have targeted governments, major companies, schools and hospitals, causing billions of dollars of damage and extracting tens of millions in ransoms from victims. Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA), working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Europol and agencies from nine other countries in Operation Cronos, said it had infiltrated LockBit's network and taken control of its services. "We have hacked the hackers, we have taken control of their infrastructure, seized their source code, and obtained keys that will help victims decrypt their systems," NCA director general Graeme Biggar told reporters in London. LockBit's websiteselling services that allow people to organize cyber attacks and hold data until a ransom is paid appearswas taken over on Monday evening. A message appeared on the site stating that it was "now under control of law enforcement". "As of today LockBit is effectively redundant, LockBit has been locked out," Biggar said. The US Justice Department (DOJ) said the agencies had seized control of "numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization's infrastructure" and taken control of servers used by LockBit administrators. The NCA added that it had obtained more than 1,000 decryption keys and will be contacting UK-based victims in the coming days and weeks to offer support and help them recover encrypted data. Biggar said the network had been behind 25 percent of all cyber attacks in the past year. LockBit has targeted over 2,000 victims and received more than $120 million in ransom payments since it formed four years ago, according to the DOJ. Those targeted have included Britain's Royal Mail, US aircraft manufacturer Boeing, and a Canadian children's hospital. In January 2023, US law enforcers shut down the Hive ransomware operation which extorted some $100 million from more than 1,500 victims worldwide. Since then, LockBit has been seen as the biggest current threat. Dark Web Hive and LockBit are part of what cybersecurity experts call a "ransomware as a service" style, or RaaSa business that leases its software and methods to others to use in extorting money. Ariel Ropek, director of cyber threat intelligence at cybersecurity firm Avertium, told AFP last year that this structure makes it possible for criminals with minimal computer fluency to get into ransomware by paying others for their expertise. On the so-called dark web, providers of ransomware services pitch their products openly. At one end are the initial access brokers, who specialize in breaking into corporate or institutional computer systems. They then sell that access to the hacker, or ransomware operator. But the operator depends on RaaS developers like Hive or LockBit, which have the programming skills to create the malware needed to carry out the operation. Typically, their programsonce inserted by the ransomware operator into a target's IT systemsare manipulated to freeze, via encryption, the target's files and data. RaaS developers offer a full service to the operators, for a large share of the ransom paid out, said Ropek. When the ransomware is planted and activated, the target receives a message telling them how much to pay to get their data unencrypted. That ransom can run from thousands to millions of dollars. On Tuesday, the US unsealed an indictment against two Russian nationals, bringing to five the number of Russians it has charged in connection with LockBit. In a separate notice, the US Treasury Department said it is imposing sanctions on the pair, affiliates of LockBit, who "actively engaged" in ransomware attacks. Biggar said a "large concentration" of the cyber criminals are in Russia and are Russian-speaking, but law enforcement agencies have not seen any direct support for LockBit from the Russian state. "There is clearly some tolerance of cyber criminality within Russia," he added. 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 message on LockBit's site said law envorcement agencies had taken it over. Criminals have overtaken your computer network, they are threatening to leak your most sensitive secrets and your share price is tumbling. It's time to call in the negotiators. They might not wear capes, but this new breed of mediatorwho often has had prior careers in law enforcement and intelligenceis increasingly on hand to help in such a nightmare scenario. Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) and law enforcement partners from several other countries announced Tuesday that they had smashed the cybercrime giant LockBit, whose ransomware attacks have caused billions of dollars of damage and stolen tens of millions from victims. The gang had targeted governments, major companies, schools and hospitals since 2020. Institutions of all shapes and sizes are still prey to the growing criminal threat, though. In a ransomware attack, gangssometimes state-backedhack into networks and demand payment either to unlock the system or prevent the release of top-secret data. While cybercrime may conjure up images of lawless bandits operating in a world of anarchy, they are usually rational actors, according to Ram Elboim, CEO of US-based cybersecurity company Sygnia. "It's not the Wild West, where people just shoot everywhere. Ransomware is a business. It's a huge economy," he told AFP during a London visit. Elboim's company responds to desperate requests from clients under attack, often Fortune 500 companies, by setting up a team and jetting in to take on the criminals. 'Gun to your business' Integral to this team are the negotiators, who use their experience of dealing with "real-world" criminals to act as a go-between with online crooks, either helping foil the attack, or working out a price if all else fails. In a ransomware attack, gangs, sometimes linked to the state, hack into networks and demand payment either to unlock the system or prevent the release of top-secret data. "Usually we get a call, usually it happens on a weekend or the middle of the night. This is the time where organizations let down their awareness," said Elboim. The first tasks are to understand the nature of the attack, how the attacker got into the network, what systems are down, how to contain the spread and recover any lost data. "Then there is a negotiation piece," said Elboim, a former member of Israel's military intelligence unit known as "8200". "You're talking with a criminalit's not a criminal who pulls a gun to your head, but there's a criminal holding a gun to your business. "Usually, we advise you to start negotiations as soon as possible. "If your only goal is to reduce the price from $50 million to $48 million then... just a good salesperson can do that. "But usually attackers have some kind of a deadline, pay within 72 hours. The goal of the negotiation is to allow yourself more time to recover." Another goal is to understand what the attackers are looking for and if you can attribute the attack to a specific group. This is when the negotiators' expertise comes to the fore, setting up a channel of communicationusually via a chat app or emailand squeezing information from the criminals. "It's not as if the attacker will give you information freely," said Elboim. In the worst-case ranswomware scenario, when the system appears lost and with crucial data about to be leaked, many institutions have to decide whether to pay the criminals. Great reward In the best-case scenario, "we drag on the negotiations" for long enough and glean enough information to kick out the attackers and retrieve the data. "After a few days of this game, the organization can just... tell the hacker 'I'm not paying, do whatever you want'." In the worst case, when the system appears lost and with crucial data about to be leaked, many institutions then have to decide whether to pay. "Some organizations do not want to pay on principal. In some cases, the organization is willing to pay but not willing to pay so much," with negotiators then haggling over a price. Even if they pay the ransom and the network is decrypted, it is not plain sailing but rather the beginning of a long recovery process. Attackers may promise not to attack again for a certain period of time, but there is no guarantee that the network is safe. "We even had one case where we had a discussion with one attacker and he says 'okay, I move away' and then another came in and it's for sure they exchanged information, they knew everything the first one did," recalled Elboim. But the rewards for a successful mission are great, he added. "We had an attack... and the entire company was out, and this is a multinational organization." After repelling the attackers, "one of the guards at the entrance stopped us and said, 'Thank you for rescuing my work, now, I will not be hungry'. "This is one of the most satisfying moments you can have." 2024 AFP Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF (BATS:GVI Free Report) by 1.2% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 9,946 shares of the companys stock after selling 125 shares during the period. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLCs holdings in iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF were worth $1,008,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its position in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF by 4.4% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 454,235 shares of the companys stock worth $46,028,000 after purchasing an additional 19,295 shares in the last quarter. United Capital Financial Advisers LLC increased its position in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF by 73.0% during the 4th quarter. United Capital Financial Advisers LLC now owns 256,185 shares of the companys stock worth $26,249,000 after purchasing an additional 108,130 shares in the last quarter. SVB Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF by 48.4% during the 3rd quarter. SVB Wealth LLC now owns 219,645 shares of the companys stock worth $22,257,000 after purchasing an additional 71,609 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its position in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF by 13.9% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 98,301 shares of the companys stock worth $10,271,000 after purchasing an additional 11,992 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Greenleaf Trust raised its stake in shares of iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF by 24.0% in the third quarter. Greenleaf Trust now owns 91,384 shares of the companys stock worth $9,260,000 after acquiring an additional 17,699 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF alerts: iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF Stock Up 0.2 % Shares of BATS GVI opened at $103.62 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $104.30 and a 200-day moving average of $102.66. iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF Company Profile The iShares Intermediate Government\u002FCredit Bond ETF (GVI) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of US Treasury, agency and investment-grade corporate bonds with remaining maturities of 1-10 years. GVI was launched on Jan 5, 2007 and is managed by BlackRock. See Also Receive News & Ratings for iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Intermediate Government/Credit Bond ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CAE Inc. (NYSE:CAE Free Report) (TSE:CAE) Equities researchers at National Bank Financial lifted their FY2024 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of CAE in a report released on Wednesday, February 14th. National Bank Financial analyst C. Doerksen now anticipates that the aerospace company will post earnings per share of $0.87 for the year, up from their previous estimate of $0.86. The consensus estimate for CAEs current full-year earnings is $0.88 per share. National Bank Financial also issued estimates for CAEs Q4 2024 earnings at $0.32 EPS. Get CAE alerts: Several other research analysts also recently commented on the company. Bank of America downgraded CAE from a neutral rating to an underperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price target on CAE from $37.00 to $34.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 15th. StockNews.com upgraded CAE from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday. Finally, Scotiabank downgraded CAE from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, CAE has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $35.00. CAE Stock Up 1.4 % CAE stock opened at $19.28 on Monday. CAE has a 1-year low of $18.26 and a 1-year high of $25.04. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $20.67 and a 200 day simple moving average of $21.78. The company has a current ratio of 0.90, a quick ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.13, a P/E/G ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 1.61. Institutional Investors Weigh In On CAE Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Stonehage Fleming Financial Services Holdings Ltd bought a new position in shares of CAE during the third quarter valued at $29,000. Hillsdale Investment Management Inc. raised its stake in CAE by 45.5% during the 4th quarter. Hillsdale Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,600 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $35,000 after purchasing an additional 500 shares during the period. Allworth Financial LP increased its stake in CAE by 678.3% in the 3rd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 1,541 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 1,343 shares during the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC increased its stake in CAE by 85.5% in the 3rd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,029 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $47,000 after acquiring an additional 935 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in CAE in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $55,000. 64.34% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. CAE Company Profile (Get Free Report) CAE Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides simulation training and critical operations support solutions in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Oceania and Africa, and Rest of Americas. It operates through three segments: Civil Aviation, Defense and Security, and Healthcare. Read More Receive News & Ratings for CAE Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CAE and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) (OTCMKTS:DHOXY Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $0.00 and traded as high as $0.42. Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) shares last traded at $0.39, with a volume of 51,600 shares traded. Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) Price Performance The companys fifty day simple moving average is $0.39. Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) Company Profile (Get Free Report) Desarrolladora Homex, SAB. de C.V. (Homex) is a vertically integrated home development company. The Company is engaged in the development, construction and sale of entry-level housing in Mexico. The Company is engaged in the development, construction and sale of middle-income housing in Mexico. Homex operates in Mexico. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Desarrolladora Homex (DHOXY) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. FactSet Research Systems Inc. (NYSE:FDS Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Reduce from the ten brokerages that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $434.25. Several equities research analysts recently commented on FDS shares. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating and set a $480.00 target price (up from $471.00) on shares of FactSet Research Systems in a report on Friday, December 8th. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating and set a $464.00 price target on shares of FactSet Research Systems in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of FactSet Research Systems from $436.00 to $447.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price target on shares of FactSet Research Systems from $436.00 to $469.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. Get FactSet Research Systems alerts: Get Our Latest Report on FactSet Research Systems FactSet Research Systems Stock Performance FactSet Research Systems stock opened at $456.86 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91, a current ratio of 1.68 and a quick ratio of 1.68. FactSet Research Systems has a 12 month low of $377.89 and a 12 month high of $487.79. The company has a market cap of $17.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 36.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.82 and a beta of 0.75. The stocks 50-day moving average is $466.75 and its 200-day moving average is $449.17. FactSet Research Systems (NYSE:FDS Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, December 19th. The business services provider reported $4.12 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $4.10 by $0.02. FactSet Research Systems had a net margin of 22.60% and a return on equity of 34.47%. The business had revenue of $542.20 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $540.34 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $3.99 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts anticipate that FactSet Research Systems will post 15.76 earnings per share for the current year. FactSet Research Systems Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 21st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be given a $0.98 dividend. This represents a $3.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.86%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 28th. FactSet Research Systemss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 31.72%. Insider Transactions at FactSet Research Systems In other news, CEO Frederick Philip Snow sold 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $476.02, for a total value of $1,428,060.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 12,915 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,147,798.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, CEO Frederick Philip Snow sold 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $476.02, for a total transaction of $1,428,060.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 12,915 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,147,798.30. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Christopher R. Ellis sold 9,291 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $450.76, for a total transaction of $4,188,011.16. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 23,433 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,562,659.08. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 17,805 shares of company stock valued at $8,164,021. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On FactSet Research Systems Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. boosted its stake in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 12.6% during the 3rd quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. now owns 2,118 shares of the business services providers stock worth $926,000 after acquiring an additional 237 shares in the last quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 2.7% in the second quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 5,477 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,194,000 after buying an additional 146 shares during the period. Nordea Investment Management AB boosted its holdings in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 45.1% in the third quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 185,103 shares of the business services providers stock worth $81,723,000 after buying an additional 57,502 shares during the period. Fiera Capital Corp boosted its holdings in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 1.6% in the third quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 441,046 shares of the business services providers stock worth $192,852,000 after buying an additional 6,960 shares during the period. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC boosted its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 820.0% in the third quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 92 shares of the business services providers stock worth $40,000 after buying an additional 82 shares during the period. 89.50% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. FactSet Research Systems Company Profile (Get Free Report FactSet Research Systems Inc, a financial data company, provides integrated financial information and analytical applications to the investment community in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company delivers insight and information through the workflow solutions of research, analytics and trading, content and technology solutions, and wealth. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for FactSet Research Systems Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for FactSet Research Systems and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Barrick Gold Corp (NYSE:GOLD Free Report) (TSE:ABX) Equities researchers at Cormark decreased their FY2024 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Barrick Gold in a note issued to investors on Thursday, February 15th. Cormark analyst R. Gray now forecasts that the gold and copper producer will earn $0.68 per share for the year, down from their prior estimate of $1.08. The consensus estimate for Barrick Golds current full-year earnings is $0.92 per share. Cormark also issued estimates for Barrick Golds FY2025 earnings at $0.81 EPS. Get Barrick Gold alerts: A number of other research analysts have also recently commented on the company. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price target on Barrick Gold from $17.00 to $15.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Raymond James reduced their price objective on Barrick Gold from $24.00 to $23.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. StockNews.com upgraded Barrick Gold from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. CIBC reduced their price objective on Barrick Gold from $27.00 to $23.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein cut Barrick Gold from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, January 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $21.71. Barrick Gold Stock Up 0.6 % NYSE:GOLD opened at $14.74 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 2.40, a current ratio of 3.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The stocks fifty day moving average is $16.43 and its two-hundred day moving average is $16.17. Barrick Gold has a 52 week low of $13.76 and a 52 week high of $20.75. The stock has a market capitalization of $25.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.47, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.12 and a beta of 0.58. Barrick Gold (NYSE:GOLD Get Free Report) (TSE:ABX) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 14th. The gold and copper producer reported $0.27 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.21 by $0.06. Barrick Gold had a return on equity of 4.64% and a net margin of 11.16%. The firm had revenue of $3.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.13 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.13 earnings per share. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Barrick Gold A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Cheyne Capital Management UK LLP bought a new stake in shares of Barrick Gold during the 3rd quarter valued at about $2,910,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its position in Barrick Gold by 53.6% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 524,618 shares of the gold and copper producers stock worth $7,633,000 after purchasing an additional 183,076 shares during the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its position in Barrick Gold by 10.9% in the 3rd quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 17,995,217 shares of the gold and copper producers stock worth $255,406,000 after purchasing an additional 1,769,110 shares during the last quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. grew its position in Barrick Gold by 7.8% in the 3rd quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. now owns 5,047,402 shares of the gold and copper producers stock worth $73,519,000 after purchasing an additional 367,307 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fox Run Management L.L.C. bought a new position in Barrick Gold in the 3rd quarter worth about $880,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.20% of the companys stock. Barrick Gold Cuts Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be issued a $0.074 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 28th. This represents a $0.30 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.01%. Barrick Golds dividend payout ratio is currently 55.56%. About Barrick Gold (Get Free Report) Barrick Gold Corporation is a sector-leading gold and copper producer. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol GOLD and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ABX. In January 2019 Barrick merged with Randgold Resources and in July that year it combined its gold mines in Nevada, USA, with those of Newmont Corporation in a joint venture, Nevada Gold Mines, which is majority-owned and operated by Barrick. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Barrick Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barrick Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Gold Fields (NYSE:GFI Get Free Report) is set to release its 12/31/2023 earnings data before the market opens on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect Gold Fields to post earnings of $0.15 per share for the quarter. Persons that are interested in participating in the companys earnings conference call can do so using this link. Gold Fields Stock Up 0.4 % Shares of Gold Fields stock opened at $13.63 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $14.07 and a 200 day moving average of $13.33. Gold Fields has a fifty-two week low of $8.89 and a fifty-two week high of $17.78. Get Gold Fields alerts: Institutional Investors Weigh In On Gold Fields Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Engineers Gate Manager LP acquired a new position in Gold Fields during the 4th quarter worth approximately $162,000. Cetera Investment Advisers acquired a new position in Gold Fields during the 1st quarter worth approximately $155,000. Quantinno Capital Management LP acquired a new position in Gold Fields during the 4th quarter worth approximately $149,000. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC grew its holdings in Gold Fields by 45.0% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 15,580 shares of the companys stock worth $142,000 after acquiring an additional 4,834 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Gold Fields by 18.0% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 10,674 shares of the companys stock worth $142,000 after acquiring an additional 1,629 shares in the last quarter. 20.99% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts recently weighed in on GFI shares. BMO Capital Markets downgraded shares of Gold Fields from a market perform rating to an underperform rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $14.00 to $12.00 in a report on Friday, February 2nd. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Gold Fields from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, February 3rd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and four have issued a hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Gold Fields presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $14.00. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Gold Fields About Gold Fields (Get Free Report) Gold Fields Limited operates as a gold producer with reserves and resources in Chile, South Africa, Ghana, West Africa, Australia, and Peru. The company also explores for copper deposits. It holds interests in nine operating mines, as well as gold mineral reserves and mineral resources. The company was founded in 1887 and is based in Sandton, South Africa. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Gold Fields Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Gold Fields and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Hexcel Co. (NYSE:HXL Free Report) Analysts at Zacks Research reduced their FY2024 earnings per share estimates for Hexcel in a report released on Wednesday, February 14th. Zacks Research analyst R. Department now expects that the aerospace company will earn $2.26 per share for the year, down from their prior forecast of $2.39. The consensus estimate for Hexcels current full-year earnings is $2.24 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Hexcels Q4 2024 earnings at $0.70 EPS, Q3 2025 earnings at $0.74 EPS, Q4 2025 earnings at $0.79 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $2.99 EPS. Get Hexcel alerts: A number of other analysts have also recently commented on HXL. BMO Capital Markets cut their price target on shares of Hexcel from $78.00 to $69.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, January 29th. Northcoast Research initiated coverage on shares of Hexcel in a research report on Tuesday, November 28th. They set a buy rating and a $80.00 price target on the stock. Truist Financial raised shares of Hexcel from a hold rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $62.00 to $96.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Hexcel from $80.00 to $75.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on shares of Hexcel from $81.00 to $89.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, February 16th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $77.23. Hexcel Stock Performance NYSE HXL opened at $72.39 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.68, a current ratio of 2.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41. The company has a market capitalization of $6.11 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 58.38, a PEG ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 1.22. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $71.49 and a 200 day simple moving average of $69.01. Hexcel has a twelve month low of $58.81 and a twelve month high of $79.08. Hexcel (NYSE:HXL Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 25th. The aerospace company reported $0.43 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by ($0.06). The company had revenue of $457.50 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $474.01 million. Hexcel had a net margin of 5.91% and a return on equity of 9.31%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $0.40 earnings per share. Hexcel Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 16th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th were paid a $0.15 dividend. This is a positive change from Hexcels previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.83%. Hexcels dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 48.39%. Insider Buying and Selling at Hexcel In other Hexcel news, insider Thierry Merlot sold 4,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.63, for a total value of $322,335.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 50,371 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,608,074.73. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other news, insider Thierry Merlot sold 4,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.63, for a total transaction of $322,335.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 50,371 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,608,074.73. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Gina Fitzsimons sold 864 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $72.10, for a total transaction of $62,294.40. Following the sale, the insider now owns 3,375 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $243,337.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 1.70% of the companys stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Hexcel Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of HXL. Cetera Trust Company N.A bought a new position in Hexcel in the 4th quarter worth approximately $30,000. Point72 Asset Management L.P. bought a new position in Hexcel in the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Farther Finance Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Hexcel by 100.0% in the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 412 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 206 shares during the period. CENTRAL TRUST Co boosted its holdings in Hexcel by 68.1% in the 3rd quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co now owns 442 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 179 shares during the period. Finally, Kistler Tiffany Companies LLC bought a new position in Hexcel in the 2nd quarter valued at $35,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.71% of the companys stock. About Hexcel (Get Free Report) Hexcel Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets carbon fibers, structural reinforcements, honeycomb structures, resins, and composite materials and parts for use in commercial aerospace, space and defense, and industrial applications. It operates through two segments, Composite Materials and Engineered Products. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Hexcel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Hexcel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kahn Brothers Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report) by 5.3% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,000 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 100 shares during the quarter. Kahn Brothers Group Inc.s holdings in Procter & Gamble were worth $292,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Procter & Gamble by 96,526.4% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 38,535,557 shares of the companys stock worth $5,840,449,000 after purchasing an additional 38,495,676 shares during the period. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of Procter & Gamble during the 4th quarter worth approximately $3,752,321,000. Morgan Stanley grew its stake in shares of Procter & Gamble by 12.6% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 44,320,700 shares of the companys stock worth $6,717,246,000 after purchasing an additional 4,959,527 shares during the period. Fisher Asset Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Procter & Gamble by 742.9% during the 2nd quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 4,862,949 shares of the companys stock worth $737,904,000 after purchasing an additional 4,285,986 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new stake in shares of Procter & Gamble during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $685,677,000. 63.43% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Procter & Gamble alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of brokerages have recently commented on PG. StockNews.com raised shares of Procter & Gamble from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Sunday, January 28th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $156.00 to $157.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $172.00 to $178.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $169.00 to $162.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Procter & Gamble currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $167.50. Insider Activity In other Procter & Gamble news, CEO R. Alexandra Keith sold 6,575 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.47, for a total value of $1,009,065.25. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 5,620 shares of the companys stock, valued at $862,501.40. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In other Procter & Gamble news, COO Shailesh Jejurikar sold 31,275 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $154.90, for a total value of $4,844,497.50. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 9,623 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,490,602.70. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CEO R. Alexandra Keith sold 6,575 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.47, for a total transaction of $1,009,065.25. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 5,620 shares in the company, valued at approximately $862,501.40. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 258,997 shares of company stock valued at $39,904,358. 0.17% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Procter & Gamble Trading Up 0.8 % Shares of PG stock traded up $1.20 on Wednesday, hitting $159.71. 4,004,592 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,715,583. The firms 50-day moving average price is $151.45 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $150.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a current ratio of 0.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $375.80 billion, a PE ratio of 26.73, a PEG ratio of 3.21 and a beta of 0.45. The Procter & Gamble Company has a twelve month low of $136.10 and a twelve month high of $160.34. Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The company reported $1.84 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.70 by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $21.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $21.48 billion. Procter & Gamble had a net margin of 17.60% and a return on equity of 34.04%. The companys revenue was up 3.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.59 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that The Procter & Gamble Company will post 6.45 EPS for the current year. Procter & Gamble Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, January 19th were given a dividend of $0.9407 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, January 18th. This represents a $3.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.36%. Procter & Gambles payout ratio is 62.98%. Procter & Gamble Profile (Free Report) The Procter & Gamble Company provides branded consumer packaged goods worldwide. It operates through five segments: Beauty; Grooming; Health Care; Fabric & Home Care; and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. The Beauty segment offers conditioners, shampoos, styling aids, and treatments under the Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences, Pantene, and Rejoice brands; and antiperspirants and deodorants, personal cleansing, and skin care products under the Olay, Old Spice, Safeguard, Secret, and SK-II brands. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Procter & Gamble Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Procter & Gamble and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Manulife Financial Co. (TSE:MFC Free Report) (NYSE:MFC) Investment analysts at Desjardins issued their Q1 2024 earnings per share estimates for shares of Manulife Financial in a note issued to investors on Thursday, February 15th. Desjardins analyst D. Young forecasts that the financial services provider will earn $0.93 per share for the quarter. Desjardins has a Buy rating and a $36.00 price objective on the stock. The consensus estimate for Manulife Financials current full-year earnings is $3.60 per share. Desjardins also issued estimates for Manulife Financials Q2 2024 earnings at $0.90 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $0.95 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.92 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $3.70 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $4.05 EPS. Get Manulife Financial alerts: Other equities research analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. National Bankshares boosted their price objective on shares of Manulife Financial from C$29.00 to C$33.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. Scotiabank lifted their target price on Manulife Financial from C$35.00 to C$40.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 16th. Cormark raised Manulife Financial from a market perform rating to a buy rating and lifted their target price for the company from C$33.00 to C$36.00 in a research report on Friday, February 16th. TD Securities raised their target price on shares of Manulife Financial from C$34.00 to C$35.00 and gave the company an action list buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets raised shares of Manulife Financial from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and raised their target price for the company from C$31.00 to C$35.00 in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Manulife Financial has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$35.60. Manulife Financial Price Performance Manulife Financial stock opened at C$32.99 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of C$59.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 4.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 11.85 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 56.70, a current ratio of 22.91 and a quick ratio of 2.58. Manulife Financial has a 1 year low of C$23.69 and a 1 year high of C$33.59. The firm has a 50-day moving average of C$29.52 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$26.86. Manulife Financial Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 19th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, February 28th will be paid a dividend of $0.40 per share. This is an increase from Manulife Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.37. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.85%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, February 27th. Manulife Financials payout ratio is presently 20.83%. Manulife Financial Company Profile (Get Free Report) Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in Asia, Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; and Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment offers investment advice and solutions to retirement, retail, and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels, including agents and brokers affiliated with the company, independent securities brokerage firms and financial advisors pension plan consultants, and banks. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Manulife Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manulife Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mirabella Financial Services LLP purchased a new stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor purchased 1,481 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $202,000. Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Clear Street Markets LLC raised its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 93.8% in the first quarter. Clear Street Markets LLC now owns 250 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 121 shares during the period. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC raised its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 47.7% in the second quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 254 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 82 shares during the period. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 210.5% in the second quarter. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 295 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 200 shares during the period. Park Place Capital Corp increased its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 473.9% during the third quarter. Park Place Capital Corp now owns 264 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 218 shares during the period. Finally, Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC bought a new position in shares of Jacobs Solutions during the third quarter worth approximately $42,000. 84.77% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Jacobs Solutions alerts: Jacobs Solutions Price Performance Jacobs Solutions stock opened at $145.32 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $134.28 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $133.44. Jacobs Solutions Inc. has a one year low of $109.00 and a one year high of $149.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.37. The firm has a market cap of $18.26 billion, a PE ratio of 25.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 0.73. Jacobs Solutions Increases Dividend Jacobs Solutions ( NYSE:J Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.02 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.56 by $0.46. Jacobs Solutions had a return on equity of 14.57% and a net margin of 4.20%. The firm had revenue of $4.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.02 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.67 EPS. The companys revenue was up 10.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that Jacobs Solutions Inc. will post 8.06 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm 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. This represents a $1.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.80%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. This is an increase from Jacobs Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. Jacobs Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 18.57%. Insider Buying and Selling at Jacobs Solutions In other Jacobs Solutions news, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total value of $194,250.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 28,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, insider Steven J. Demetriou sold 6,666 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $127.75, for a total transaction of $851,581.50. Following the sale, the insider now owns 581,138 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $74,240,379.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total value of $194,250.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 28,150 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 19,018 shares of company stock valued at $2,475,578. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Benchmark reiterated a buy rating and set a $160.00 target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Raymond James lowered Jacobs Solutions from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Royal Bank of Canada increased their target price on Jacobs Solutions from $151.00 to $161.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and set a $150.00 target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Tuesday, November 21st. Finally, KeyCorp assumed coverage on Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. They set a sector weight rating on the stock. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $152.11. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Jacobs Solutions About Jacobs Solutions (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. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding J? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report). 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. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board lifted its position in The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG Free Report) by 35.4% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 43,991 shares of the insurance providers stock after purchasing an additional 11,508 shares during the quarter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Boards holdings in The Hartford Financial Services Group were worth $3,119,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. raised its position in The Hartford Financial Services Group by 7.2% during the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 17,704 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,271,000 after buying an additional 1,185 shares during the last quarter. D.A. Davidson & CO. raised its position in shares of The Hartford Financial Services Group by 9.1% during the 1st quarter. D.A. Davidson & CO. now owns 3,952 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $284,000 after buying an additional 330 shares during the period. Prudential PLC purchased a new position in shares of The Hartford Financial Services Group during the first quarter worth $674,000. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its position in shares of The Hartford Financial Services Group by 88.6% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 11,238 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $807,000 after acquiring an additional 5,278 shares during the period. Finally, Zions Bancorporation N.A. increased its holdings in The Hartford Financial Services Group by 235.4% in the first quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 1,070 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $77,000 after buying an additional 751 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 90.81% of the companys stock. Get The Hartford Financial Services Group alerts: Insider Activity In related news, CEO Christopher Swift sold 69,248 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $78.09, for a total transaction of $5,407,576.32. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 170,180 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,289,356.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CEO Christopher Swift sold 69,248 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $78.09, for a total value of $5,407,576.32. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 170,180 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,289,356.20. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Allison G. Niderno sold 1,332 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $89.74, for a total transaction of $119,533.68. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 630 shares in the company, valued at approximately $56,536.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 339,050 shares of company stock valued at $28,069,037. 2.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on shares of The Hartford Financial Services Group from $97.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded shares of The Hartford Financial Services Group from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $94.00 to $91.00 in a research note on Monday, January 8th. UBS Group increased their target price on The Hartford Financial Services Group from $100.00 to $107.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Raymond James boosted their price target on The Hartford Financial Services Group from $90.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, February 5th. Finally, Roth Mkm raised their price target on The Hartford Financial Services Group from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, The Hartford Financial Services Group currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $90.60. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on HIG The Hartford Financial Services Group Stock Up 0.6 % Shares of HIG traded up $0.52 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $93.95. The company had a trading volume of 282,279 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,721,595. The stock has a market capitalization of $28.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.75, a P/E/G ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 0.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 0.31 and a current ratio of 0.32. The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $64.25 and a 52-week high of $94.19. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $84.83 and a 200-day moving average price of $77.44. The Hartford Financial Services Group (NYSE:HIG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The insurance provider reported $3.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.44 by $0.62. The business had revenue of $6.40 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.84 billion. The Hartford Financial Services Group had a return on equity of 19.82% and a net margin of 10.21%. The businesss revenue was up 6.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.31 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. will post 9.99 EPS for the current fiscal year. About The Hartford Financial Services Group (Free Report) The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc provides insurance and financial services to individual and business customers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. Its Commercial Lines segment offers insurance coverages, including workers' compensation, property, automobile, general and professional liability, package business, umbrella, fidelity and surety, marine, livestock, and reinsurance through regional offices, branches, sales and policyholder service centers, independent retail agents and brokers, wholesale agents, and reinsurance brokers. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding HIG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Hartford Financial Services Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Hartford Financial Services Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cedar Fair, L.P. (NYSE:FUN Free Report) Investment analysts at B. Riley reduced their Q2 2024 earnings estimates for Cedar Fair in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday, February 15th. B. Riley analyst E. Wold now forecasts that the company will earn $1.37 per share for the quarter, down from their previous forecast of $1.38. B. Riley has a Buy rating and a $52.00 price target on the stock. The consensus estimate for Cedar Fairs current full-year earnings is $3.52 per share. B. Riley also issued estimates for Cedar Fairs Q3 2024 earnings at $3.96 EPS, Q2 2025 earnings at $1.79 EPS, Q3 2025 earnings at $4.21 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $3.82 EPS. Get Cedar Fair alerts: Several other research analysts also recently weighed in on FUN. KeyCorp upped their price objective on shares of Cedar Fair from $49.00 to $52.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 16th. Truist Financial upped their price target on Cedar Fair from $46.00 to $48.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, February 16th. Citigroup raised shares of Cedar Fair from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $40.00 to $46.00 in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Oppenheimer began coverage on shares of Cedar Fair in a report on Thursday, February 8th. They issued an outperform rating and a $49.00 target price for the company. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus raised their price target on shares of Cedar Fair from $49.00 to $52.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, February 16th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $49.20. Cedar Fair Stock Performance FUN stock opened at $40.60 on Monday. Cedar Fair has a fifty-two week low of $34.04 and a fifty-two week high of $47.95. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $39.70 and its 200 day simple moving average is $38.78. The company has a market cap of $2.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.57 and a beta of 1.42. Cedar Fair Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, March 20th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 6th will be issued a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.96%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, March 5th. Cedar Fairs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 48.98%. Institutional Trading of Cedar Fair Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Weiss Multi Strategy Advisers LLC purchased a new position in Cedar Fair in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $659,000. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC lifted its holdings in Cedar Fair by 201.4% during the 4th quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 841 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 562 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Cedar Fair by 15.5% during the 4th quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 4,008,868 shares of the companys stock worth $159,553,000 after purchasing an additional 539,352 shares in the last quarter. UBS Group AG boosted its stake in Cedar Fair by 313.7% in the 4th quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 3,047,096 shares of the companys stock worth $121,274,000 after purchasing an additional 2,310,565 shares during the period. Finally, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its holdings in Cedar Fair by 10.0% during the 4th quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 3,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $131,000 after buying an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. 61.81% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Cedar Fair Company Profile (Get Free Report) Cedar Fair, L.P. owns and operates amusement and water parks, as well as complementary resort facilities. Its amusement parks include Cedar Point located on Lake Erie between Cleveland and Toledo in Sandusky, Ohio; Knott's Berry Farm near Los Angeles, California; Canada's Wonderland near Toronto, Ontario; Kings Island near Cincinnati, Ohio; Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina; Kings Dominion situated near Richmond, Virginia; California's Great America located in Santa Clara, California; Dorney Park in Pennsylvania; Worlds of Fun located in Kansas City, Missouri; Valleyfair situated near Minneapolis/St. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Cedar Fair Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cedar Fair and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:WST Free Report) Equities research analysts at William Blair reduced their Q3 2024 earnings per share estimates for West Pharmaceutical Services in a report issued on Friday, February 16th. William Blair analyst M. Larew now expects that the medical instruments supplier will post earnings per share of $2.06 for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $2.29. The consensus estimate for West Pharmaceutical Services current full-year earnings is $8.88 per share. William Blair also issued estimates for West Pharmaceutical Services Q4 2024 earnings at $2.15 EPS. Get West Pharmaceutical Services alerts: A number of other brokerages have also weighed in on WST. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded West Pharmaceutical Services from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $323.00 to $536.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. UBS Group dropped their price target on West Pharmaceutical Services from $400.00 to $375.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, February 16th. StockNews.com lowered West Pharmaceutical Services from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, February 16th. Stephens dropped their price target on West Pharmaceutical Services from $420.00 to $390.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 27th. Finally, KeyCorp upped their target price on West Pharmaceutical Services from $440.00 to $470.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 13th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $411.00. West Pharmaceutical Services Price Performance WST opened at $350.18 on Monday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $362.67 and its two-hundred day moving average is $368.03. West Pharmaceutical Services has a 1 year low of $303.79 and a 1 year high of $415.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05, a current ratio of 3.70 and a quick ratio of 2.89. The firm has a market capitalization of $25.91 billion, a PE ratio of 44.44, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.53 and a beta of 1.05. West Pharmaceutical Services (NYSE:WST Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 15th. The medical instruments supplier reported $1.83 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.78 by $0.05. West Pharmaceutical Services had a return on equity of 21.77% and a net margin of 20.12%. The firm had revenue of $732.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $740.43 million. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.77 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 3.3% on a year-over-year basis. West Pharmaceutical Services Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, February 7th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, January 31st were issued a $0.20 dividend. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.23%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, January 30th. West Pharmaceutical Servicess payout ratio is presently 10.15%. Insider Buying and Selling at West Pharmaceutical Services In other news, CAO Chad Winters sold 1,013 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $349.00, for a total transaction of $353,537.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 1,270 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $443,230. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. 1.13% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in WST. Norges Bank acquired a new position in West Pharmaceutical Services in the 4th quarter valued at $237,367,000. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership raised its stake in West Pharmaceutical Services by 57.2% in the 3rd quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 1,591,271 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $597,061,000 after purchasing an additional 578,796 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA acquired a new position in West Pharmaceutical Services in the 3rd quarter valued at $215,011,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its stake in West Pharmaceutical Services by 73.2% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 849,266 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $294,246,000 after purchasing an additional 359,021 shares during the last quarter. Finally, APG Asset Management US Inc. acquired a new position in West Pharmaceutical Services in the 4th quarter valued at $88,227,000. 91.23% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. West Pharmaceutical Services Company Profile (Get Free Report) West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc designs, manufactures, and sells containment and delivery systems for injectable drugs and healthcare products in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates in two segments, Proprietary Products and Contract-Manufactured Products. See Also Receive News & Ratings for West Pharmaceutical Services Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for West Pharmaceutical Services and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Robert Half Inc. (NYSE:RHI Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Tuesday, February 13th, RTT News reports. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a dividend of 0.53 per share by the business services provider on Friday, March 15th. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.65%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. This is a boost from Robert Halfs previous quarterly dividend of $0.48. Robert Half has raised its dividend by an average of 20.8% per year over the last three years and has raised its dividend annually for the last 20 consecutive years. Robert Half has a payout ratio of 43.1% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Robert Half to earn $4.47 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.92 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 43.0%. Get Robert Half alerts: Robert Half Stock Performance Shares of NYSE RHI opened at $80.03 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $82.86 and a 200 day moving average price of $78.59. Robert Half has a 52 week low of $64.65 and a 52 week high of $88.39. The stock has a market capitalization of $8.47 billion, a PE ratio of 20.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 19.94 and a beta of 1.28. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Robert Half ( NYSE:RHI Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The business services provider reported $0.83 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.82 by $0.01. Robert Half had a return on equity of 25.73% and a net margin of 6.43%. The firm had revenue of $1.47 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.47 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.37 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts forecast that Robert Half will post 3.38 EPS for the current year. Several analysts have issued reports on RHI shares. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price objective on Robert Half from $85.00 to $80.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Truist Financial upped their price objective on Robert Half from $66.00 to $72.00 and gave the company a sell rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Finally, UBS Group started coverage on Robert Half in a research note on Tuesday, November 7th. They issued a sell rating and a $60.00 price objective on the stock. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $68.57. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on RHI Hedge Funds Weigh In On Robert Half A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in RHI. Quarry LP bought a new position in Robert Half during the 4th quarter worth $25,000. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC bought a new position in Robert Half during the 4th quarter worth $27,000. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC bought a new position in Robert Half during the 4th quarter worth $28,000. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. bought a new position in Robert Half during the 2nd quarter worth $28,000. Finally, Point72 Asset Management L.P. bought a new position in Robert Half during the 2nd quarter worth $43,000. Institutional investors own 91.63% of the companys stock. Robert Half Company Profile (Get Free Report) Robert Half Inc provides talent solutions and business consulting services in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The company operates through three segments: Contract Talent Solutions, Permanent Placement Talent Solutions, and Protiviti. The Contract Talent Solutions segment provides contract engagement professionals in the fields of finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal and administrative, and customer support. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Robert Half Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Robert Half and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Superior Industries International, Inc. (NYSE:SUP Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $3.11 and traded as high as $3.55. Superior Industries International shares last traded at $3.35, with a volume of 44,100 shares changing hands. Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, StockNews.com lowered Superior Industries International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, November 2nd. Get Superior Industries International alerts: Get Our Latest Research Report on SUP Superior Industries International Stock Performance Institutional Inflows and Outflows The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 25.43, a quick ratio of 1.49 and a current ratio of 2.20. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $3.17 and a 200-day moving average price of $3.10. A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Legato Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Superior Industries International by 35.9% in the 2nd quarter. Legato Capital Management LLC now owns 326,269 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $1,175,000 after purchasing an additional 86,193 shares in the last quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC lifted its holdings in Superior Industries International by 10.3% in the 2nd quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 40,329 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $145,000 after purchasing an additional 3,765 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Superior Industries International in the 1st quarter valued at $69,000. PEAK6 Investments LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Superior Industries International in the 4th quarter worth $67,000. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP raised its holdings in shares of Superior Industries International by 33.9% during the 4th quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 14,216 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $60,000 after acquiring an additional 3,600 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 43.80% of the companys stock. Superior Industries International Company Profile (Get Free Report) Superior Industries International, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and sells aluminum wheels to the original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket distributors in North America and Europe. It offers its products under the ATS, RIAL, ALUTEC, and ANZIO brand names. The company was founded in 1957 and is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Superior Industries International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Superior Industries International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP Free Report) Equities research analysts at Zacks Research raised their Q1 2025 EPS estimates for Union Pacific in a research note issued on Thursday, February 15th. Zacks Research analyst M. Basu now anticipates that the railroad operator will post earnings of $2.77 per share for the quarter, up from their previous forecast of $2.63. The consensus estimate for Union Pacifics current full-year earnings is $10.92 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Union Pacifics Q3 2025 earnings at $2.90 EPS. Get Union Pacific alerts: UNP has been the topic of several other research reports. Sanford C. Bernstein raised shares of Union Pacific from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $280.00 target price on the stock in a report on Monday, January 22nd. TD Cowen upped their price target on shares of Union Pacific from $228.00 to $251.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Benchmark reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $260.00 price target on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Friday, January 26th. UBS Group upped their price target on shares of Union Pacific from $235.00 to $248.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of Union Pacific from $270.00 to $275.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Union Pacific currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $249.67. Union Pacific Price Performance UNP stock opened at $247.22 on Monday. Union Pacific has a one year low of $183.69 and a one year high of $251.65. The companys fifty day moving average price is $243.33 and its 200-day moving average price is $225.74. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.11, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a current ratio of 0.81. The company has a market capitalization of $150.75 billion, a PE ratio of 23.63, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.69 and a beta of 1.08. Union Pacific (NYSE:UNP Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The railroad operator reported $2.71 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.56 by $0.15. Union Pacific had a net margin of 26.45% and a return on equity of 46.87%. The business had revenue of $6.16 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.05 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $2.67 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down .3% on a year-over-year basis. Union Pacific Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Investors of record on Thursday, February 29th will be given a $1.30 dividend. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.10%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 28th. Union Pacifics payout ratio is currently 49.71%. Insider Activity at Union Pacific In related news, CFO Jennifer L. Hamann sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $235.00, for a total value of $235,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 98,297 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $23,099,795. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, President Elizabeth F. Whited sold 3,750 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.00, for a total transaction of $937,500.00. Following the sale, the president now owns 56,682 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $14,170,500. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO Jennifer L. Hamann sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $235.00, for a total transaction of $235,000.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 98,297 shares in the company, valued at approximately $23,099,795. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.30% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Union Pacific A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. OLD Point Trust & Financial Services N A acquired a new stake in Union Pacific in the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. Valued Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Union Pacific in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. BluePath Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Union Pacific in the 3rd quarter valued at $25,000. Meitav Investment House Ltd. purchased a new position in Union Pacific in the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. Finally, Power Corp of Canada purchased a new position in Union Pacific in the 1st quarter valued at $40,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.36% of the companys stock. Union Pacific Company Profile (Get Free Report) Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, and other agricultural users; petroleum, and liquid petroleum gases; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Union Pacific Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Union Pacific and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Visionary Wealth Advisors raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:EFAV Free Report) by 12.6% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 45,890 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 5,146 shares during the quarter. Visionary Wealth Advisors holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $2,993,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EFAV. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the third quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Coastal Investment Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $41,000. Almanack Investment Partners LLC. acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the third quarter valued at approximately $48,000. Sheets Smith Wealth Management acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the third quarter valued at approximately $49,000. Finally, First Capital Advisors Group LLC. acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $50,000. Get iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Price Performance Shares of BATS:EFAV traded up $0.73 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $69.42. The company had a trading volume of 409,636 shares. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $68.88 and its 200-day moving average price is $67.13. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.01 and a beta of 0.60. iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF has a one year low of $64.68 and a one year high of $76.51. iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (EFAV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI EAFE Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of developed-market equities, ex-US and Canada, selected and weighted to create a low volatility portfolio subject to constraints including sector exposure. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EFAV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:EFAV Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nebraska First Lady Suzanne Pillen visited several Grand Island elementary schools with the goal to ensure children in Nebraska know where their food, fiber and fuel come from. During her time as Nebraskas First Lady, it is one of Pillens missions to share accurate agriculture books with students in Nebraska, according to a release. Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom helped to create Bushels of Stories to connect students with agriculture through story. Books are interactive and require kids to think. I am passionate about helping kids think about how agriculture is a part of their everyday life, Pillen said in the release. I hope that by reading accurate agriculture books to students, we can help more students understand how their food starts on a farm and ends up on their plate. On Monday, Pillen visited more than 220 students at Engleman Elementary, Howard Elementary, Seedling Mile Elementary and Wasmer Elementary. We are incredibly grateful to have Nebraskas First Lady sharing the power of reading with us at Grand Island Public Schools, district Superintendent Matt Fisher said in the release. Expanding horizons about the importance of agriculture in our state is a wonderful way to support early childhood literacy for our 4th graders. Thank you to Suzanne Pillen for supporting us, our students and our community. Agriculture is a uniquely important educational topic for Nebraskans as it is the driver of Nebraskas economy. Agriculture impacts all Nebraskans each time they eat, put fuel in their vehicles, turn on their lights or put on clothes, the release said. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation manages the Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom Program (AITC). Learn more at nefbfoundation.org/bushel-ofstories. HYOGO, Feb 22 (News On Japan) - A controversy has arisen over the practice of bringing furikake (a Japanese rice seasoning) to school lunches at a middle school in Hyogo Prefecture. Many students leave rice uneaten... A request to "bring furikake" emerges During lunchtime, students are seen sprinkling furikake on their white rice. At a middle school in Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture, bringing furikake for school lunches has been allowed since the second term of last year. Kawanishi City stated, "We started this practice in response to requests from students who wanted to bring furikake to their school lunches." Since September of the year before last, when school lunches started in middle schools in Kawanishi City, many students have been leaving their rice uneaten. As a result, the city solicited opinions from students on how to improve the situation, and the request to "bring furikake" emerged. The city agreed to allow it, with conditions such as limiting it to one individually packaged serving and prohibiting exchanges between students. Some city council members question the decision: "Isn't this too hasty?" However, some city council members have raised questions. Kawanishi City Council Member Michi Kuroda said, "School lunches are managed with a thorough nutritional balance and hygiene, and precautions are taken to prevent accidents like food poisoning. The fact that food from home can be brought in so smoothly to this environment is a crisis and a threat to me." The Director of Education Promotion in Kawanishi City responded, "We started this after thoroughly discussing safety and hygiene internally." Kuroda further questioned, "But is furikake really the solution to reducing food waste?" Additionally, the council member pointed out issues beyond nutrition and hygiene. Kuroda argued, "Eliminating white rice = commercial furikake seems too hasty. If we're really considering SDGs, should we be increasing the waste from furikake packets?" 40% of students who bring furikake say "they leave less rice uneaten" People in the city commented on the practice of bringing furikake to school lunches: A person in their 70s said, "I think it's good. If it helps them eat more rice. When I was hospitalized, I couldn't eat white rice, but I could eat it with furikake." A person in their 50s mentioned, "If furikake is okay, then what about bringing soy sauce to put on side dishes, or adding salt? It might lead to that." In a survey, only 7.4% of students said they "bring furikake almost every day," while 77% said they "have never brought it." However, nearly 40% of students who answered that they "bring furikake" reported that "they leave less rice uneaten." The city plans to continue monitoring the situation and maintain the practice for the time being. Source: ANN A 35-year-old Carter Lake man is being held in the Douglas County Jail after he was accused of being impaired in a two-vehicle crash that killed one person and injured three others near Bennington. The crash occurred shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday when a northbound Chevrolet Silverado, allegedly driven by Joshua E. Kuhl along 168th Street, failed to stop at a stop sign at the Nebraska Highway 36 intersection, according to the Douglas County Sheriffs Office. Authorities said a westbound Subaru Outback SUV collided with Kuhls pickup. The four people inside the SUV were taken by ambulance to the Nebraska Medical Center for treatment. One of those people died at the hospital. Their names are being withheld pending notification of their families. Kuhl was taken to the Douglas County Jail on suspicion of motor vehicle homicide due to driving under the influence, driving under the influence with a blood-alcohol content of greater than 0.15 and two counts of driving under the influence and causing serious injury. Under state law, anyone with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 is too impaired to drive. The Sheriffs Office said Kuhl has been convicted twice of driving under the influence. In 2020, Kuhls second DUI conviction resulted in probation and his drivers license being revoked for one year. Honeywell, local firm to cooperate in Vietnams first green hydrogen plant By Tri Duc Wed, February 21, 2024 | 4:10 pm GMT+7 Honeywell, a U.S. multi-sector conglomerate, will cooperate with Ho Chi Minh City-based The Green Solutions in implementing the Tra Vinh Green Hydrogen plant, the first such facility in Vietnam. In a Wednesday announcement, Honeywell said the two sides have signed a memorandum of understanding under which it will provide the project with project automation design and management as well as management for energy transition, including battery energy storage systems (BESS). The cooperation aims to enable the Vietnamese side to have the plant run on renewable energy sources, it added. The Green Solutions kicks off construction of Vietnams first green hydrogen project in Tra Vinh province, southern Vietnam, March 30, 2023. Photo courtesy of EVN. In addition to BESS, Honeywell will provide solutions and expertise covering the entire hydrogen value chain to help The Green Solutions operate safely, profitably and meet its renewable energy production goals. Ramanathan Valliyappan, regional general manager of Honeywell Process Solutions, said the company BESS will play a key enabling role in the project. "It will extend renewable energy from The Green Solutions solar farms beyond sunlight time as well as extend wind power when the winds are calm, he elaborated. The Green Solutions started construction of the project last March at a total estimated cost of VND8 trillion ($341 million). The firm expects to put the 21-hectare factory site online after two years, initially producing 24,000 tons of green hydrogen and 195,000 tons of oxygen a year, and providing direct jobs for 300-500 local residents. Under the national hydrogen strategy approved by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, Vietnam plans to build hydrogen storage, distribution and usage facilities with an annual capacity of 10-20 million tons by 2050. Another target is to develop distribution systems for the transport sector across the country, in line with global developments, by 2050. KinderWorld wins land auction to develop international school in Hai Phong city By Minh Hue Wed, February 21, 2024 | 2:59 pm GMT+7 Singapore education firm KinderWorld has won an auction for 3.04 hectares of land to build an international school in Le Chan district, the northern Vietnam city of Hai Phong. The winning of the auction, organized by Hai Phong city and Le Chan district authorities on January 12, 2024, marked KinderWorlds official entry into the third largest city in Vietnam. KinderWorld representatives at the land auction in Hai Phong city, northern Vietnam in January 2024. Photo courtesy of KinderWorld Vietnam. According to a decision issued by the municipal Peoples Committee on February 1, 2024, KinderWorld Vietnam was recognized as the legal winner of the land auction for a multilevel school site with VND9.15 billion ($373,000) per year in land rental. Upon completion, SIS @ Le Chan will offer through-train education programs from preschool to high school, with an expected capacity of 1,500 students. It will be one of the flagship international school campuses of KinderWorld in Vietnam, featuring a smart campus with world-class facilities catered to a future-ready learning environment. Earlier, Ricky Tan, chairman of KinderWorld International Group - the holding company of KinderWorld Vietnam JSC, met with Le Tien Chau, Secretary of the Hai Phong Party Committee on July 31, 2023, to propose the potential education investment in the city. Le Tien Chau, Secretary of the Hai Phong Party Committee, and representatives from KinderWorld Vietnam in July 2023. Photo courtesy of KinderWorld Vietnam. At the meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed between KinderWorld and Hai Phong authorities, highlighting the groups vision to develop up to four international school campuses, a comprehensive vocational training center, and an outdoor education and ecotourism site in the city. KinderWorld International Group (KinderWorld) started its first childcare center in Singapore in 1986. At present, KinderWorld is the largest owner-operator of foreign-invested international schools in Vietnam, offering educational programs from preschool to high school and university foundation. As part of its through-train approach to education, KinderWorld also operates higher education arms, namely SISH Institute (Singapore) and Pegasus International College (Vietnam). It also has a partnership with Outward Bound Vietnam for outdoor experiential learning programs. In Vietnam, KinderWorld International Group has a presence in eight localities. There are three preschool facilities named KinderWorld International Kindergarten (KIK) and three international primary schools called Singapore International School (SIS) in Hanoi; one SIS in Ha Long town, the northern province of Quang Ninh; one SIS in the central city of Danang; one SIS in the southern industrial province of Binh Duong; one SIS in HCMC; one SIS in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau; and one KIK; and one SIS in the southern city of Can Tho. The group ventured into the multi-level school sector with a Singapore Vietnam International School (SVIS) in the central coastal province of Khanh Hoa in 2014. 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 Zip Code Jimmie Haddock still loves the freedom, fresh air and feel of the wind against his face that he gets from riding his beloved motorcycle. The 89-year-old doesn't move as swiftly as he used to, but the motorcycle moves just fast enough for him to still enjoy the ride. When you're out there cruising down the road in the fresh air, you ain't got nothing bothering you. You're just as free as a bird, said Haddock, who will celebrate his 90th birthday on Feb. 27. The Orangeburg native, who now lives in Cameron, has a 750 Honda Shadow that he still cruises on with a group of friends. He is not picky about their destinations, which usually involve a good meal. It's wherever the guys want to go ride to. One hundred to 200 miles would be the limit. I can't take those 400- to 500-mile days anymore, Haddock said. He worked in the automotive business for more than 40 years, including with NAPA Auto Parts in Orangeburg. I worked the counter and then I finally ended up running the automotive machine shop. I ended up retiring from Jumper Auto Parts. After the last 15 years, I worked in the machine shop, Haddock said. The friends he has ridden with over the years include Wilbur Bair, Andy Wittington, Hank Lacons, Billy Allread and John Robb. They have all enjoyed the camaraderie that they share while riding. Me and Hank worked together in the auto parts business, and Billy Allread ran the NAPA store in St. Matthews. I got to know him back when I was with NAPA back in the 60s when we used to have to go to those yearly company things. I got to know Wilbur more or less from him coming in the store buying stuff and all, Haddock said. Haddock and his late wife, Mamie, were both motorcycle enthusiasts who were part of the Holiday Motorcycle Club of Orangeburg. The couple shared four children: Kathy, Debbie, Helen and a son who passed away. Debbie said her father has always had the need for speed, but is learning to realize his limitations. He got him a trike a couple of years back, but he didn't like it because it didn't have the sway. He is starting to look for another trike. I don't know that he'll like it, though, she said. Debbie said her parents would enjoy trips to motorcycle functions in Daytona Beach, Florida as part of the Holiday Motorcycle Club. A bunch of them would go to Daytona for the motorcycle races down there every February. Mama rode with him up until she was 80 and got sick. I called my parents the Hell's Angels, she said, laughing. Haddock said, We went every year for a long time. I've been once or either twice since my wife passed, but I ain't been in the past three or four years. Debbie said her parents had their share of spills, but the two enjoyed being together. I'm not even sure if he and mama were married yet when you dumped her there on Belleville Road, she said. Haddock said they were not yet. They was building I-26 through there, and the trucks had come up on that road and had clay all over the road. With that rain, we were riding along there and the next thing I know, we found ourselves on the ground, he said. Haddock misses his wife and cherishes the times they shared. She helped me in every kind of way I needed help. When Id be working on something at night and needed a hand, she'd help me. She went with me wherever I wanted to go. Of course, I returned the favor. We was real close, he said. Haddock has always driven or ridden something over the course of his life. Before motorcycles, he was a fixture at the Orangeburg Speedway as one of its premiere stock car racers. I started following NASCAR in 1958, going to the races here, there and yonder. Then whenever they started up that little thing out there at the fairgrounds, at the time I was working at Horne Motors. A friend of mine had a brother that was in the racing business up around Greenville, and he wanted to get one. A bunch of us got an old jalopy and made it into a race car and started, he said. Debbie said, He was one of the premier drivers at the track out there. There's articles everywhere on that. They would go to Moncks Corner, Sumter. He also finished the Figure 8 track in Edmund, which is outside of Columbia. Papa finished the race backwards one night. I've had my thrills and spills. Everything wrong with me I caused myself, Haddock said. Debbie said, "He was coming home from church one night about 10 years ago right there on Cameron Highway. It was raining and he hit the curb and wrecked the motorcycle. We took him to the emergency room, and the emergency personnel was just shocked that he was 80 years old and riding his motorcycle. She said her mom told her father that it was time to stop stock car racing after he severely injured his back during a race in Sumter. His doctor warned him that he could one day be paralyzed. Haddock said he's had a heavy foot since he was a child. I got my driver's license at 14. So I guess I started driving when I was about 13. I got my driver's license in a Model T Ford, he said. I think we have a picture of him in that car, Debbie said. Haddock thanks God for being able to still ride his motorcycle and be in relatively good health despite occasional mobility issues. The good Lord is taking care of me. I have to thank him every morning I wake up, he said. How long will he keep riding? I don't know. I'm winding down, I know that. As long as I can go on is all I can say, Haddock said. As a native of a low-income West African nation, Dr. Cynthia NDede Hourizene knows the value of digging deep into the dynamics of an agrarian economy. As an assistant professor of economics at South Carolina State University, NDede Hourizene applies that curiosity to both research and instruction. Hailing from Cote d'Ivoire (the Ivory Coast), she earned her Master of Science in Agricultural Economics in 2009 and her Ph.D. in applied economics in 2016, both from Auburn University in Alabama. After joining SC State in 2017 as a research associate in the Department of Economics, she taught at the adjunct level and eventually rose to the rank of assistant professor. University Relations recently asked NDede Hourizene a series of questions about her path toward becoming the 2023-24 Professor of the Year for SC States College of Business and Information Systems. Q: What has inspired you during your journey as an academic? NDede Hourizene: One of my biggest inspirations in academia has always been Dr. Curtis Jolly, Professor Emeritus of Economics at Auburn University. First, he is an excellent teacher. I am always impressed by his ability to break down very difficult concepts into small, digestible bites of knowledge with the use of very relatable examples. Second, he is an active researcher with over 150 publications (many of which are in prestigious journals) and 6000+ citations. Dr. Jolly has always been a guiding light for me in life and in academia. Q: What led you to choose your field of study? NDede Hourizene: Economics is a part of everyday life and the access to the future. Coming from a low-income country, where the agriculture sector is a pillar of the economy, I have always wanted to learn more, bring about innovation in it and be an agent of economic development. I found that studying economics could help me achieve this goal. Q: How would you describe your teaching philosophy? NDede Hourizene: I believe that one of the best ways to make courses relevant is the inclusion of current events in class discussions whenever possible. This allows students to see how what they learn in class is in operation in the real world. In addition, providing a classroom environment where there is student-to-student interaction and student-teacher interaction is important to me. I like a classroom where students enjoy their learning experience; they feel integrated; they are encouraged to express themselves, their own ideas and enjoy their learning experience. Many students are grateful to be in a class where they feel as they are part of a big family, and where everyones idea is listened and discussed respectfully, equally. Q: What drives you as a teacher and/or researcher? NDede Hourizene: Economics is ultimately a very hands-on and practical field. The concepts taught in it are seen and experienced everyday. Being able to lead my students to the understanding that economics, although dreaded by most, is essentially a discipline of what they already know using formal tools such as mathematics provides me with great fulfillment. I am truly passionate about taking my student to light bulb moments as I teach them. With regards to research, I find it thrilling to engage in the process of formulating relevant research questions and empirically finding appropriate answers. This is especially true because economics is very practical as aforementioned. This means that economic research has the potential impact lives (on the micro and macro levels) for the better. Q: What in your career are you most proud of? NDede Hourizene: Getting the Ph.D. in Economics is one of the proudest moments in my career. I come from a family of educated individuals; however, I am the first person (and only so far) to have obtained a terminal degree. The pride I feel for this achievement is mostly due to my parents who have worked tirelessly to send me to school in order to give me a future. In a nutshell, I am proud to have made them proud. Q: What has been your most exciting or valuable experience in your career at SC State? NDede Hourizene: I first came to SC State as a member of the research team led by Dr. David Karemera for a $400,000+ grant funded by USDA/NIFA. As a fresh graduate, I had never worked on such grant prior to this. The few years of collaboration with Dr. Karemera were very valuable in terms of experience and personal growth. I was able to learn a lot by his side and deepen my understanding of the topics we did research on. South Carolina State University leaders plan to stress the importance of the university as the state studies the higher education landscape. S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster has ordered the study to determine whether there are too many public universities in the state, S.C. State President Alexander Conyers told university trustees earlier this month. The study is being conducted in light of concerns that declining birth rates will affect enrollment, Conyers said. We need to know that there was a recent article in the paper that questioned South Carolina State's existence, whether HBCUs should still exist, and we need to be able to push back on that, Conyers said. We need to be able to educate them. Conyers said he uses The Citadel as an example of S.C. States importance. You can close The Citadel technically, but you can still commission officers for the military at Clemson, South Carolina, Lander, Winthrop, South Carolina State, he said. You don't need a military school to commission officers. So when they talk Do we need South Carolina State University? My question is, Do we still need the Citadel? Conyers said. I say yes to both because the Citadel is a niche institution for the military. South Carolina State University is a niche institution for African American students, for underrepresented students, for first-generation college students and for so many more. We have to make sure that we aren't giving anyone any reason to try to disadvantage us, Conyers said. We must ensure we are all pulling on the same end of the rope here. I am not saying that people want to shut us down, ... but I will say that we are being scrutinized at every angle, at everything we are doing, Conyers said. There are some people who think our growth in student enrollment is adding to their demise. It is an open and fair market. There are currently 33 public four- and two-year colleges in South Carolina. This does not include private universities. The study will seek to determine: Does South Carolina need 33 public colleges? Are the current colleges in the best locations? Would South Carolina be better served by one board of regents rather than each college being served by individual boards? The structure is used in several states, Conyers said. Should certain two-year colleges merge with four-year colleges, for example Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College merging with S.C. State? Do certain colleges have enough full-time students to sustain operations? Are schools preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow or are they preparing students for the jobs of the past? Is there a duplication of programs? We know that there are duplication of programs, Conyers said. We know your common courses will be at every school. We may say, Well, we can't close it ... because it is important, but the General Assembly will say No, you can close it because you can go to Columbia for that course or Florence or anywhere else. This is about enrollment and the number of students, Conyers said. This study may very well tell us what to do. In 2022, S.C. State offered 50 academic programs with an enrollment of 2,292. The average number of students per program was 42. If you are averaging 42, then obviously you have some programs with a couple hundred people in it, so that means you have some programs in them with almost none, Conyers said. We need to know we are scrutinized. It is my job to fight every single day for South Carolina State students first and foremost. The S.C. State board has recently discussed eliminating some programs due to low enrollment and graduation rates. Some programs discussed include bachelors degrees in art education, history, social studies, special education and professional land surveying. The board has yet to cut programs so that it can research the impact on faculty and staff. Conyers said the university has hired Hope Blackley as a new, full-time government liaison to help educate Columbia lawmakers about the importance of S.C. State's role in higher education in the state. Conyers has asked Blackley, who has over 30 years of experience in the public sector, to help guide the board on how to participate in the study. Nagakute, Feb 22 (News On Japan) - Aichi Medical University has announced that due to a computer error during the admissions process using the results of the unified university entrance examination, 80 applicants who should have progressed to the second stage of the medical school entrance examination were mistakenly deemed ineligible. The university has informed all 80 individuals that they are qualified to take the second-stage examination scheduled for the 22nd, and is considering providing an alternative date, such as the 25th of this month, for those who are unable to take the exam on the designated day. According to Aichi Medical University, located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, a computer operation error occurred during the medical school admissions process, which utilizes the unified university entrance examination results. The error led to the mistaken determination that 80 applicants, who were actually eligible for the second-stage examination, did not qualify. The eligible candidates for the second-stage examination were announced on the 8th of this month, but subsequent posts on social media raised questions, with some students stating, "According to my self-scoring, I had a higher score than a friend who passed, so why was I deemed ineligible?" Upon investigation prompted by these concerns, the university discovered on the 19th that there had been an error when inputting applicants' scores, provided by the National Center for University Entrance Examinations, into the university's designated format. The university contacted the affected students on the 20th to inform them of the error. The university has conveyed to the affected students that they are eligible to take the second-stage examination on the 22nd and is considering options for those who cannot take the exam on that date, including the possibility of taking it on the 25th of this month. Aichi Medical University has issued an apology to the examinees for the inconvenience caused and has stated its intention to review and improve its checking system to prevent such errors from occurring again in the future. Source: NHK (TBTCO) - Sang nay, gia vang the gioi chua co bien ong moi. Cac chuyen gia cho rang, quan iem va quyet inh lai suat cua cac ngan hang trung uong se tac ong en huong i cua vang tuan nay. Trong nuoc, tai thoi iem 6h30, vang SJC tai Ha Noi van uoc niem yet o moc 81,72 trieu ong/luong o chieu ban ra. at hon gia vang the gioi 15,684 trieu ong/luong. 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). A new camera system is being installed along this countrys roadways with the aim of tackling traffic congestion and reducing the countrys crime. This was said yesterday by Minister of Works and Transport Rohan Sinanan, who spoke with the media at the intersection of the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway and Golden Grove Road in Piarco. With ten people murdered between Thursday and Saturday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley took to Facebook yesterday to assure citizens that State agencies will not give up the fight to rid our streets and other places of the evil that is now widespread as a gun culture in Trinidad and Tobago. And in a voice note to the media, Commissioner of Police Erla Christopher said, We are determined to dismantle criminal gangs and make a difference in transforming impacted communities. U.S., British warplanes strike Houthi targets in Yemen's Hodeidah Xinhua) 16:33, February 21, 2024 SANAA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- U.S. and British warplanes launched four airstrikes overnight on Houthi sites in Yemen's port city of Hodeidah, the group's al-Masirah TV said on Wednesday. The airstrikes hit areas in the north of the city, where residents reported hearing loud explosions and seeing jets flying overhead. No casualties were reported. The Houthis on Monday fired two anti-ship ballistic missiles at M/V Sea Champion, a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier bound for the port of Aden in Yemen, the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on social media X, formerly Twitter. The Houthis have stepped up their attacks on international shipping since mid-November last year, saying they were in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza who faced intense Israeli attacks. The U.S.-British forces have responded with dozens of airstrikes on Houthi targets, including mobile missile launchers and underwater drones, but have failed to deter the group from launching more attacks. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) TOKYO, Feb 22 (News On Japan) - "Debt Completely Forgiven!? such advertisements, implying that anyone can reduce their debt, are familiar to many. The term "debt restructuring" refers to a system designed to help rebuild the lives of those with multiple debts. However, there have been increasing reports of individuals who, despite seeking help from lawyers or judicial scriveners, have ended up with even more challenging financial situations. A woman in her 40s, who sought legal help after seeing an online ad promising debt reduction, had borrowed 650,000 yen from consumer finance companies for living expenses and was struggling with repayments. In March 2023, while watching a video streaming service on her smartphone, she came across a video ad featuring testimonials like "I reduced my debt!" and clicked on it out of curiosity. She was directed to a website offering a free debt reduction diagnosis and entered her debt amount and contact information, which led to a call from a law firm in Tokyo. After communicating with the law firm's staff via LINE and email, she was instructed to transfer a monthly deposit. Since the amount was about 1,000 yen less than her previous monthly repayments, she decided to proceed and paid approximately 130,000 yen over eight months. However, in December, she was told that the settlement with the consumer finance company amounted to 760,000 yen, including delayed interest her debt had not decreased. Doubting this, she consulted with a consumer affairs center run by her local government and was informed that she should have pursued bankruptcy proceedings. She canceled her contract with the law firm through a judicial scrivener from a support organization, but the money she had paid, believing it to be a deposit, was not returned as it was considered a retainer fee. 40-year-old woman: "I believed the video ad with happy testimonials about debt reduction, and I only received a very simple explanation about the payments. I thought it must be legitimate since it was coming from a lawyer. I had a strong desire to reduce my debt as quickly as possible..." "Beware of Fraudulent Online Ads" Shinichi Niikawa, a judicial scrivener and deputy secretary-general of the "National Association of Consumer Credit and Life Debt Victim Liaison Council," a support group for multiple debtors, says that if the woman's financial situation had been properly assessed, debt negotiation would have been inappropriate. Judicial Scrivener Shinichi Niikawa: "Despite knowing that long-term debt negotiation would not reduce the individual's debt, the law firm seems to have created a business model that deliberately leads to settlements and fees. Among the online ads used to attract a large number of clients, there are some that border on fraud, and the industry must take collective action." "Countermeasures Against Online Ads" Leads to New Organization In response to such concerns, a new organization is being formed to advance countermeasures. The "National Conference on Secondary Damage Prevention for Debt Restructuring by Mass Advertising Firms" is scheduled to be established in March, comprising lawyers, judicial scriveners, and supporters of multiple debtors. At a preparatory meeting held online on February 17, about 20 participants, including lawyers, judicial scriveners, and supporters of multiple debtors, gathered. A man in his 30s, who had requested debt restructuring from two law firms based on internet ads, shared his painful experience. Man in his 30s: "The fees for hiring a law firm for one case were so high that my payment amount increased, leading to the absurd situation of borrowing money from illegal lenders to cover the costs, which only made my life harder." What Exactly is "Debt Restructuring"? Debt restructuring methods include "debt negotiation," where you negotiate with creditors to pay an affordable amount each month, and "bankruptcy proceedings," conducted in court to have debts forgiven. Lawyers and judicial scriveners tasked with these cases are expected to provide support tailored to the debtor's living situation. However, a 2022 survey of multiple debtor support organizations nationwide revealed that 37 individuals had sought legal assistance through online ads and, despite needing to file for bankruptcy, were guided towards debt negotiation, which only increased their burden. Among the consultations, there were 18 cases where the debtor's debt did not decrease and 14 cases where they incurred new debts due to payments to the law firm. Additionally, 30 out of the 37 individuals proceeded with their cases online without ever meeting a lawyer or judicial scrivener in person. The support organization launching next month plans to offer free phone consultations to assist multiple debtors and aims to grasp the extent of the damage. Lawyer Mikami Rii at the preparatory meeting: "We want to consult with people who sought help from lawyers through online ads without proper interviews or explanations and ended up without a resolution or in a worsened situation. With misleading terms like 'government-approved debt relief program' flooding the internet, we also want to address the nature of online advertising." Disciplinary Actions Over Exaggerated Advertising Cases have arisen where lawyers' exaggerated advertising has been deemed worthy of disciplinary action. The Chiba Bar Association is reviewing a case involving a lawyer in his 70s who advertised victim relief for investment and romance scams with claims like "Leave everything to us, and we'll solve it completely" and used logos of the Consumer Affairs Agency and the Financial Services Agency in online ads. In June 2023, the lawyer was judged to have potentially violated the Japan Federation of Bar Associations' regulations against "exaggerated advertising or advertising that creates excessive expectations," and the content of the disciplinary action is under review. The Japan Advertising Review Organization (JARO) also reports that it has received approximately 200 complaints each year for the past three years about advertisements for consultation services from law firms, including those with misleading expressions suggesting the possibility of money being returned. Where to Consult? For those struggling with debt, there are various consultation services available, such as free legal advice from the Legal Support Center (Houterasu) and free consultation sessions organized by local bar associations. However, it has been noted that fewer people are attending these consultation sessions recently. Lawyers interviewed for this report expressed concern that the number of people who seek debt restructuring through online ads and end up in greater hardship may be increasing. Consultation services for multiple debts are available through bar associations and judicial scrivener associations in each prefecture, consumer affairs centers run by local governments, and the Japan Federation of Bar Associations' Sunflower Hotline. Japan Federation of Bar Associations Sunflower Hotline: 0570-001-240 (Weekdays 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM) The support organization advises individuals to first consult these available services. Source: NHK The U.S. Constitution doesn't mention Christianity or any specific religion. The Declaration of Independence famously proclaims that people's rights come from a "Creator" and "Nature's God" but doesn't specify who that is. Yet large numbers of Americans believe the founders intended the U.S. to be a Christian nation, and many believe it should be one. Such views are especially strong among Republicans and their white evangelical base. Already such views are being voiced by supporters of Donald Trump amid his bid to recapture the presidency. Pollsters found a wide circle of Americans who hold general God-and-country sentiments. Within that is a smaller, hardcore group who also check other boxes in surveys such as that the U.S. Constitution was inspired by God and that the federal government should declare the U.S. a Christian nation, advocate Christian values or stop enforcing the separation of church and state. Those embracing that package of beliefs are more likely they'll have unfavorable views toward immigrants, dismiss or downplay the impact of anti-Black discrimination and believe Trump was a good or great president, according to a 2021 Pew Research Center survey. This latter group reflects a movement widely called Christian nationalism, which fuses American and Christian values, symbols and identity and seeks to privilege Christianity in public life. The idea of Christian nationhood fills Americans' need for an origin story, a belief that "we've come here for something special, and that we're here for God's work," said Eric McDaniel, an associate professor of government at the University of Texas. It creates a sense of "national innocence," so adherents resist confronting uglier parts of U.S. history, he said. The belief connects to other beliefs past and present, from the Manifest Destiny doctrine that justified continental conquest to Trump's America First and Make America Great Again slogans, said McDaniel, a co-author of "The Everyday Crusade: Christian Nationalism in American Politics." Trump echoed some of these ideas, vowing to bar immigrants who "don't like our religion." Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., proclaimed that America is and was founded as a Christian nation and that Thomas Jefferson was "divinely inspired" in writing the Declaration of Independence, according to a 2015 sermon. WallBuilders, an organization Johnson credits for its "profound influence" on him, spread materials claiming that "revisionist" historians downplayed America's Christian origins, but the group has been widely criticized for historically dubious claims. Recent Texas, Oklahoma and Kentucky Republican Party platforms proclaim the country was founded on "Judeo-Christian" principles. The Rev. Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church of Dallas, said he doesn't identify as a Christian nationalist, but does believe America was founded as a Christian nation. "I'm not claiming that all of our founders were Christians," he said in an interview. "Some were deists, some were atheists, but the majority were Christians. I'm also not saying that non-Christians shouldn't have the same rights as Christians in our country." But he said "there's a case to be made that the Judeo-Christian faith was the foundation for our laws and many of our principles." He cited founder John Jay the first Supreme Court chief justice asserting it was Americans' duty "in our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." Anthea Butler, chair of religious studies at the University of Pennsylvania, said history precludes any idea of a Christian nation. "It doesn't mean that Christians weren't a part of the founding of this nation," said Butler, a historian of African American and American religion. "What it does mean is that if you believe that America is a Christian nation and you happen to subscribe to Christian nationalism as a part of that, you're buying into a myth." That America-as-a-Christian-nation idea is "a trope of exclusion," she said, centering American history on white Anglo-Saxon Protestants as "the ones that are willing and should be running the country both then and now." That justifies viewing others as "heathens," including the enslaved Black people and the Native Americans whose land was taken. Those arguing for a Christian America are generally not historians and not really talking about history they're talking politics, said John Fea, author of the 2011 book "Was America Founded as a Christian Nation?" "They appeal to a false view of the founding, or at least a partial view of the founding, to advance political agendas of the present," said Fea, a history professor at Messiah University, a Christian university in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. "These agendas are built on a very weak historical foundation." Six in 10 U.S. adults said the founders intended America to be a Christian nation, according to a 2022 Pew Research Center survey. About 45% said the U.S. should be a Christian nation. Four in five white evangelical Protestants agreed with each assertion. One-third of U.S. adults surveyed in 2023 said God intended America to be a promised land for European Christians to set an example to the world, according to a Public Religion Research Institute/Brookings report. Such surveys have found a smaller, more ardent group of believers in Christian nationhood. In another survey, PRRI identified about 10% of Americans as the most committed adherents. The Constitution prohibits any religious test for office, and its First Amendment guarantees free exercise of religion while barring congressional establishment of any religion. Close 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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. 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) 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) In northwest Sonora, an armed attack on three vehicles transporting Central and South American migrants to the U.S.-Mexico border resulted in the deaths of two women and a 4-year-old boy last week, Sonoran officials say, but migrant advocates believe the death toll could be higher. Sonoras attorney general confirmed to Sonoran media that three migrants died in Thursdays attack in Saric, Sonora, about an hour south of the border with Arizona, and said three or four additional victims were hospitalized in Caborca. Gustavo Romulo Salas Chavez, attorney general of Sonora, said in a Monday press conference that the Mexican Army had arrested a criminal cell of eight people with long guns in the area who may have been involved in the attack. Southern Arizona aid workers told the Arizona Daily Star that on Friday, they encountered and rendered aid to survivors of Thursday nights attack. The migrants crossed the border through a gap in the border wall nearly 20 miles east of Sasabe, Arizona, before border agents picked them up later that day, volunteers say. One victim was a woman from Peru with a bullet graze wound that a volunteer nurse treated on site, said Randy Mayer, pastor and co-founder of the Green Valley Samaritans. Also among the survivors was a young man from Ecuador who was devastated by what he reported was the death of his 10-year-old sister in the attack, he said. The people were really filled with fear and were so thankful to be out of control of the cartel, Mayer said. The official report from Sonoran officials did not mention a 10-year-old victim. But a New York-based law firm that advocates for Ecuadorian immigrants questioned the official death tally during a Tuesday interview with Sonoran media outlet Proyecto Puente. The firm, 1800 Migrante, was assisting one of the Peruvian survivors in his search for a missing relative following the attack, and found his sister was among the three confirmed deaths. The other female victim was from Honduras and the 4-year-old victim was from Ecuador. The law firm has demanded more transparency from Mexican authorities, who didnt release any statement on the incident until the Sonoran attorney general spoke to Sonoran reporters on Monday. We are convinced there are more than three deaths and the authorities dont want to say it, William Murillo, director of 1800 Migrante, told Hermosillo-based Proyecto Puente. Murillo said about 50 migrants were traveling in the three vehicles that came under fire, while Sonoras attorney general said it was between 11 and 14. On Friday, aid workers in Arizona witnessed an armed human smuggler directing the survivors through a gap in the border wall east of Sasabe. The smuggler whom aid workers heard apologizing for the attack migrants had experienced took a photograph of each person and logged their name, likely to prove each person had crossed and to get payment for each, Mayer said. Mayer said aid workers brought the survivors to a make-shift encampment along the border wall that volunteers have established in the remote area. We made some soup and coffee, and only then did it feel like they were calming down and started talking, he said. They just said they were crammed in these vehicles and the shooting started happening, and they were trapped. The survivors reported that the cartel-affiliated smuggling group that was transporting them tried to protect them from the other criminal groups who attacked the vehicles, he said. After the shooting, the smugglers who had brought the migrants to Saric were able to transport them the rest of the way to the border, east of Sasabe. The injured Peruvian woman was inconsolable, said Gail Kocourek of the Tucson Samaritans, who arrived at the border wall shortly after the survivors did. She started telling us her story and she was crying and crying. It was just heartbreaking, she said. Violence against migrants constant The small town of Saric, where Thursdays attack occurred, has been a way-station for migrants seeking to reach the Sonora-Arizona border, and locals say it's largely controlled and tightly surveilled by criminal groups. Last weeks violent attack highlights the grave dangers facing migrants on their journey through Mexico. The risks have escalated in Sonora in recent months, as a violent battle between factions of criminal gangs in the state has resulted in an exodus of residents from the small border town of Sasabe, Sonora. While this latest incident made the news, violence against migrants is all-too common, said Dora Rodriguez, a Tucson migrant-rights advocate and co-founder of Salvavision. In 2021, the binational nonprofit established a migrant resource center in Sasabe, Sonora, currently shuttered due to the areas violent conflict, which has forced all but about 100 residents to flee the town. Migrants not only face the risk of targeted attacks, but increasingly they risk being caught in the cross-fire of conflicts between criminal groups, who are fighting for control of the massively profitable human-smuggling routes in the region, Rodriguez said. Mexican authorities have failed to protect the vulnerable migrants traversing the country, she said. There is no protection from the authorities, she said. This is not new. These criminal acts are happening every day. But in small numbers, it doesnt make the news. People constantly are getting kidnapped and getting killed. U.S. policymakers are debating proposals such as a return to something similar to the pandemic-era Title 42 policy that allowed border agents to return arriving migrants to Mexico without giving them a chance to request asylum. That policy resulted in large numbers of migrants trying over and over to cross the border, further increasing the profits of the human smugglers taking advantage of the policys implications, migrant advocates say. The now-defunct Remain in Mexico policy, established in the Trump administration, forced asylum seekers to await their court date in Mexico and resulted in human rights abuses, particularly kidnappings, against vulnerable migrants waiting in camps along the border. Human rights advocates have documented instances of kidnapping, physical and sexual assault, robbery and extortion of migrants subject to the policy, both at the hands of criminal actors and corrupt law enforcement or immigration officials in Mexico. The possibility of a return to policies that return migrants to imminent danger has advocates in Arizona worried. Its easy for us as a country to say, All right, well shut the borders. Well wash our hands of it and you are not our problem, said Rodriguez, who said shes talked to migrant women who were raped and men who have been tortured while waiting in Mexico. Its closing your eyes to the reality of these hundreds of thousands of people being exposed to more criminal activity. Those who get desperate enough inevitably turn to human smugglers to get them across the border, because regular pathways to request asylum at ports of entry are inaccessible for most, she said. With these policies, were increasing the business of these (smuggling) groups, Rodriguez said. Its totally wrong. Its not the way to do it. U.S. politicians are prioritizing photo ops at the border, rather than creating legislation to deal with the reality here, Mayer said. The easiest thing to do is throw money at the Border Patrol and say, Theyre going to solve our problems, he said. But the problems are much deeper than what the Border Patrol can solve. Theyre being asked to do a horrible job in horrible conditions and they dont have the training for it. They dont have training to take of 3-year-old babies. GLENDALE Nearly 10,000 more Arizona children will soon be eligible for subsidized health care. The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has approved a bid by the state to expand eligibility for its Kids Care program to 225% of the federal poverty level, up from 200%. That translates out to $58,895 for a family of three and $70,200 for a family of four, with higher levels for larger families. With the new eligibility standards, that should boost enrollment to close to 72,000 youngsters. Kids Care provides subsidized health insurance to the children of families who earn too much to qualify for the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. Traditional AHCCCS covers families earning up to 138% of the poverty level about $36,000 for a family of three. What that leaves are those who either are working at jobs without insurance or do not earn enough to purchase private coverage, even for their children. This is a win for 10,000 kids and teens in Arizona who can now see a doctor when they have asthma, who can see a nurse when they are not feeling well, or a dentist when they have a toothache, said January Contreras. She is the chief executive officer of the Childrens Action Alliance. Contreras said the move also is long overdue. Until now, only two states covered less families than we do in terms of income level, she said. At a news conference Tuesday, Gov. Katie Hobbs said she demanded an increase in the eligibility level as part of the deal with the Republican-controlled Legislature on the state budget. But it could not take effect until the feds agreed to provide their share, which comes down to about $3 for every dollar of state funds. Still, the expansion is expected to cost Arizona taxpayers $5.5 million for the current budget year and $6.6 million next year. Applications will be available on March 1, with coverage beginning a month after that. This is a monumental step towards protecting our children, promoting a healthier future for Arizonans, and building an Arizona where every child has the chance to thrive, the governor said. And she said this is about more than the immediate care that will be available. It means better high school and college graduation rates, Hobbs said. It means theyre more likely to find a good-paying job, she continued. And it means they can grow up to reach their full potential without having to rely on Medicaid as an adult. In a separate announcement Tuesday, AHCCCS said it was going to make permanent a program to provide finances to families with disabled children. Carmen Heredia who heads the agency said this actually was started during the COVID pandemic which resulted in severe workforce shortages of people able to provide that care. She said some of those shortages still persist. Reimbursing parents as paid caregivers is a step in the right direction and the right thing to do for these children who need these critical services from those they feel the most comfortable with their parents, Heredia said. Kids Care actually dates back to 1998 when Republican Gov. Jane Hull convinced lawmakers that the program was a good deal, with that 3-1 federal match. But enrollment has from time to time been frozen as the state was dealing with its own budget shortfalls, creating waiting lists. Those lists are gone, but the care is not free. Premiums range from $10 a month for one child in a household at the lower income range to up to $70 for multiple children in households with earnings near the cap. PHOENIX Saying the federal government has failed Arizona, state lawmakers voted Wednesday to let police here start arresting people who have entered the country illegally. The Senate voted 16-13 along party lines to make it a state crime to enter the U.S. at any place other than a port of entry. The measure makes it a misdemeanor. But the real teeth in SB 1231 are in a provision that allows a state judge, dealing with someone who was arrested by local police, to instead essentially order the person deported. House Republicans followed suit a short time later, giving their approval to HB 2821 and HB 2748 which are similar to the Senate bill, preliminary approval on voice votes. All that came over unanimous opposition from legislative Democrats But the entire exercise and floor speeches may prove to be little more than political theater allowing both sides to express their views on border security, the role of the state and what many on both sides of the political aisle say is the failure of the Biden administration to staunch the flow of migrants. Gov. Katie Hobbs made it clear in her first State of the State address last year that the problems at the border are a federal issue, Christian Slater, the governors press aide, said Wednesday. And he said Hobbs has taken actions on her own to improve border security and address the flow of fentanyl. And what does Hobbs think of the latest effort led by Republican lawmakers? SB 1231 is unconstitutional, will not secure the border and will drive away businesses and jobs from Arizona, Slater said. She will not sign it. Rep. Alexander Kolodin, R-Scottsdale, may have foreseen her arguments and her response. The Constitution reserves to the states the right of self-defense when Congress cannot act expeditiously in the face of an invasion, he said. And, make no mistake, it is an invasion. But Kolodin, in his floor speech earlier in the day, acknowledged that Hobbs gets the last word. At the end of the day, Arizonans depend on the occupant of the ninth floor to protect them, he said, referring to where Hobbs has her office in the Executive Tower. And I want to know; will Katie Hobbs protect us? Nothing about that anticipated veto, however, curtailed the extensive debate about the issue. Democrats argued that it will lead to racial profiling, particularly in cases where police have not actually seen someone come through or over the border fence. And Sen. Janae Shamp, R-Surprise, the sponsor of SB 1231, acknowledged under questioning that the legislation is designed to allow police to use probable cause to arrest someone. How will any member of law enforcement know if you have crossed the border legally or illegally other than by profiling you based on your skin color? asked Sen. Priya Sundareshan, D-Tucson. This gives any law enforcement officer who want to the license to harass people of color, detain them and make them prove their citizenship or that they are here lawfully. Sen. Rosanna Gabaldon, D-Green Valley, shared her experience of what occurred in 2010 after the Legislature approved SB 1070 which, like this, was designed to empower state and local police to stop, question and arrest people who they believe are not in this country legally. Within 12 months, I was pulled over more than 10 times by law enforcement, she recalled. And when I asked why they pulled me over, they said, You dont belong here, you are here illegally, I need you to prove your citizenship. But Sen. Anthony Kern, R-Glendale, had a different take on the need for the legislation. The racist card is null and void when it comes to protecting our citizens of all colors and all nationalities, he said. And Rep. Teresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande, said it would be wrong to see what is going on along the border as a simple matter of people coming to this country to seek a better life. These are not poor immigrants coming across from Mexico or Honduras or El Salvador, she said. These are violent people coming from China, from Russia, from Iraq, from Egypt. Underlying much of the debate is the question of whether the state even has the right to do this. Arizona fought this legal battle before with SB 1070 which went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. In a divided decision, the justices voided several provisions including one that would have allowed police to make warrantless arrests if they believe a person is violating federal immigration law. Justice Anthony Kennedy, writing the majority decision, said that conflicts with federal law, allowing the state to decide, without input from the federal government, whether an arrest is warranted. This is not the system Congress created, the justice wrote. He said only when the attorney general has granted enforcement authority to local police can they decide that someone is here illegally. Shamp, for her part, argued that allowing police to arrest border crossers is legally different. But there are other complications. By its very terms, the legislation debated Wednesday says it is a defense against prosecution if someone actually has been granted legal asylum. But it does not grant the same protections for those who have only applied for that status something that most border crossers now routinely do even though the U.S. Department of Justice says that even an application for asylum will stop deportation and allow someone to remain. Separately, Sen. David Gowan, R-Sierra Vista, pointed out that the Supreme Court did not void all of SB 1070. Officers can ask and dig to see if somebody driving is here illegally, he said. Thats legal, he said, calling that the meat of the bill. That, however, does not tell the whole story. What is known as the papers, please provision of SB 1070 does require that police officers, when possible, check the immigration status of those they believe are not in the country legally. But that can occur only when someone has already been pulled over for any other reason. It does not permit traffic stops to check legal presence. And the Supreme Court never said such questioning was legal. Instead, the justices said they didnt have enough information about how it would be enforced to make a decision, sending the case back to a federal judge in Phoenix. Before that could be decided, however, the challengers agreed to drop the case in exchange for some state-issued guidance on how police could enforce it. Most notably, that tells officers they cannot detain anyone for longer than necessary for the original reason they were stopped. That means no delay while waiting for a radioed response from federal immigration agencies about whether the person is legally entitled to be in this country. And it also means that even if the person is not here legally, police cannot keep them from leaving while awaiting an immigration officer to come and take custody unless they are under arrest for some state offense. Sen. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, a former police officer, said he sees nothing wrong with having local police pick up those who are not here legally. Cooperation between local and state law enforcement and federal law enforcement goes back hundreds of years, he said. And Kavanagh said the legislation is justified. When you have a situation like you have today, when the federal government has created a policy where they are not enforcing federal immigration law that negatively impacts all the states, especially border states like Arizona, when you have a situation where the federal government has turned the Border Patrol into a welcome wagon that actually encourages more illegal immigration, that is the time that states must step up and do their part, he said. And what of the ruling on SB 1070? If we have to go back to the Supreme Court, we will, Kavanagh said, noting that its makeup is far different now than it was in 2012 when it issued its original ruling. Frankly, I think that this Supreme Court will back the protection of the borders of the United States. Not all the arguments were about profiling, discrimination or crime. This bill is likely to put our economy at risk, said Senate Minority Leader Mitzi Epstein. The Tempe Democrat said the fallout from the publicity Arizona was the target of boycotts, costing the state $147 million in revenues. But Senate Majority Leader Sonny Borrelli, R-Lake Havasu City, said the flip side is that people here illegally suppress wages. PHOENIX A judge whose brother made comments about an Arizona elections-related case that wound up before him has agreed to step away following a motion to have him disqualified. Judge Timothy Ryan made no comment about his decision Wednesday. The move means the lawsuit filed by Republican legislative leaders against Democratic Secretary of State Adrian Fontes will be handled by another, yet-to-be-named judge. The process works, said attorney Kory Langhofer who is representing Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Ben Toma. Attorney Tom Ryan, whose social media posts started the whole fuss, had no comment. Senate Republicans, however, were not content to let the issue drop, issuing a statement calling Tom Ryan a liberal attorney who plagues social media with his contempt for the Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature with an incessant number of juvenile posts. There is no way anyone who has witnessed the antics of Judge Ryans brother, which included case-specific criticisms and commentary, can credibly believe that Judge Ryan could give the Legislature a fair trial, the GOP statement read. Langhofer sought to remove Judge Ryan after his older brother, Tom, called the two GOP leaders Yahoos, described their lawsuit against Fontes as cowpie and predicted their case was so flawed it would be dismissed. Tom Ryan said in an interview days before the recusal that the comments came before the case had been assigned to his younger brother. And he told Capitol Media Services then that he never spoke with his brother about the case, and that the judge doesnt even have a social media account where he could have read his posts. Langhofer, however, said that doesnt matter, saying that, if nothing else, disqualification is necessary to avoid the public perception that the proceedings would not be carried out in a fair manner. In the underlying lawsuit, Petersen and Toma contend that Fontes included several illegal provisions in the newest version of the Elections Procedures manual he crafted. It serves as a guide for local officials on how to conduct voter registration and elections. The GOP lawmakers took particular issue with Fontes saying that if counties dont certify their election results on time, the state is allowed to go ahead with its own formal canvass without those numbers. They said that would allow Fontes to disenfranchise the voters of an entire county. They also complained about what Fontes wrote about when county election officials have to investigate reports that someone who is registered to vote is not a citizen. All that led to the elder Ryan posting before the case was assigned to his brother that the lawsuit was frivolous and performance litigation to destroy and undermine Arizona citizens confidence in Arizona elections. No matter how much whipped cream you put on a cowpie, its never going to be delectable, he wrote. And he then asked where is the proof that the Senate and House authorized these two Yahoos to sue on their behalf. Despite Wednesdays action on this case, Judge Ryan will continue to preside over a separate lawsuit filed by Petersen and Toma challenging Proposition 211. Attorney Brett Johnson, who represents the pair in that case, did not ask the judge to step aside. That measure, adopted by voters in 2022 by a 3-1 margin, is designed to uncover dark money in political campaigns by requiring that the true sources be disclosed, not simply the name of the committee through which those dollars were run. Petersen and Toma said that measure, which empowers the Citizens Clean Elections Commission to enforce, illegally takes away the rights of the Legislature. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: Politics is the difficult art of compromise. Our country is presently floundering because the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, is bonded with a group of MAGA fanatics (e.g., Marjorie Taylor Greene, Matt Gaetz, Lauren Boebert) who explicitly reject compromise. Johnson is abetted by muted self-described centrists such as Juan Ciscomani, who seem to believe that governance means winning an election, versus writing legislation, holding hearings, compromising, and finally, at the end of an exhausting process, obtaining approval from the House, the Senate, the President and (often) the Supreme Court. This is not the time to flit from one election to the next. Congress should have passed a budget last year. They have failed multiple times, and they will probably fail again at the end of this month. Congress should have passed aid for Ukraine months ago. This failure has caused enormous damage. Legislation recently passed in the Senate, and this is supported by Representatives McCaul, Turner and Rogers, the Republican chairpersons of the committees on foreign affairs, services and intelligence, respectively. Mike Johnson refuses to give the legislation a hearing, let alone a vote. This is a lifeline for Vladimir Putin, who just liquidated his main opponent, Aleksei Navalny. The House is out of session. This is unconscionable. Congress needs to address the situation at the border. Ciscomani routinely claims he has done his job because the House passed legislation last year. Earth to Ciscomani: the legislation is meaningless unless it is also passed by the Senate, signed by the President and (likely) approved by the Supreme Court. This is the crux of governing, finding common ground. In the case of immigration, common ground is scarce. On the one hand, progressives have to acknowledge that immigration is a massive burden for schools, housing and public services. On the other hand, Republicans have to appreciate that immigration buttresses the economy. In the background, climate change is superheating the tropics, creating off-the-scale hurricanes (such as the Acapulco tropical storm which morphed into a category 5 hurricane in hours), massive flooding (such as the 2022 floods which inundated Feb. 3 of Pakistan), months-long wet bulb temperatures exceeding human limits, to mention a few items, all of which are triggering human suffering and migrations that will overwhelm the highest wall and deepest alligator infested moat that Trump can imagine. We are dealing with an intractable problem that cannot be managed with platitudes. Meanwhile, Mike Johnson is content to do nothing because he wants to preserve border chaos as an issue which Donald Trump can exploit for the next election. This is disgusting. Congress needs to focus on accomplishing something right now. Forget about the next election. There is a way forward. House Republicans should acknowledge that their control of the floor depends on MAGA fanatics, and hence they cannot effectively govern. Johnson should be removed; he is an impediment. There is a potential governing block consisting of House Democrats and a group of Republicans who are committed to constructive governance. One of these Republicans will have to run for Speaker and openly court Democratic support. It is a sad fact that this person will be putting their job on the line, similar to Liz Cheney in the last legislative session. However, there are multiple Republicans in leadership positions who are retiring this term; one of these should step forward. Alex Bohon was destined to be in the restaurant business. Both of his parents were restaurateurs and he grew up working in the kitchen. Out of all his siblings, he was the only one who took a liking to cooking, continuing to work with his father, Otto Ramon Bohon. He later went to the city of angels to study and train under a few chefs, working in various restaurants around Los Angeles. He even spent time in Ensenada, Mexico and Rosarito, Mexico, where he learned the ins and outs of higher-end Mexican cuisine. After mastering his cooking skills, he came back to Tucson to help his father out at his beloved restaurant, Taqueria La Esquina. Now, Alex is ready to follow in his parents footsteps, opening a new Mexican spot on Broadway that will feature fun drinks, food and great atmosphere. This one is a 50-50 partnership between me and my father and I'm pretty excited about it, Alex said. It's like bohemian-Sonoran style with a full agave bar. When it came to cooking, Alex said he mostly taught himself, gaining more and more knowledge with every kitchen he worked in. He learned from the best in Mexico, describing his experience as intense, saying there was less room for mistakes. It is super high pressure, whereas I tried to create a pretty low pressure environment, so everyone is happy, Alex said. Alex later helped run the Taqueria La Esquina truck, which is how the south-side brick-and-mortar got its start. He and the manager would work until 4 a.m. on the weekends, putting up the tarp, tables and salsa bars in the morning and taking it all down by the end of the night. Around four years ago, Taqueria La Esquina opened a brick-and-mortar at 4876 S. Sixth Ave. Papel picado banners hang from the ceiling while two skeletons in sombreros are painted on one of the walls. Tripa, pork belly, birria, tripa, toritos, Sonoran dogs and cheesy papas locas are all on the menu. One of their most Instagram-worthy dishes is their concha French toast. Slices of French toast cover the plate, topped with powdered sugar, blueberries and strawberries. I took a lot of the things that I learned in Rosarito and LA and I saw all the innovations they're creating, Alex said. I basically just go to the local bakeries and look at breads, think of ingredients or eat different cuisines that aren't necessarily Mexican cuisine and be like, oh, there's a way I can incorporate this into our menu. Then we take a full-staff approach at it where we give full creativity to as much of our staff as we want. Everybody gets a chance to make anything they want add to the menu, as long as we all taste and say, yeah, that's awesome. With so many different tacos on the menu, Alex said the key to perfection starts with the tortillas. The marinade and quality of meat are also important factors, but you have to have a good, homemade tortilla to really bring it home. Register for more free articles. Log in Sign up With the popularity of Taqueria La Esquina, it only made sense to expand. Alex said he and his father began toying with the idea of looking for a new spot and started to scout out places in downtown Tucson. Because of high real estate prizes, they decided to stop looking and focus on their current location. But opening a new spot was in their fate. They eventually heard about a vacant spot at 5340 E. Broadway, which once housed now-closed eatery The Dutch. They met at the building one morning and decided to give the realtor a call. Before you know it, they were the new owners of the place. The empty building will soon be home to Copal, which means amber, Alex said. This is the first time we've actually had a professional team in our entire life, Alex said. Everything that we've done has been by ourselves with our own hands, like if you go to La Esquina, the speakers are handmade. I'm really excited to work with a professional team and have this place look like as good as it possibly can. Copal will be twice the size of Taqueria La Esquina, with a large dining area, full agave bar and three patios. The restaurant will have a bohemian feel, getting inspiration from some of the decorations seen on Dia De Los Muertos and the colorful patterns on ballet folkorico dresses. My dad is in Guadalajara and hes FaceTiming me every hour. Hes like, look at these chairs, how about these aprons? Alex said. There's a big event right now that happens once a year down there for restaurants. So it [the decor] is all going to be authentic from Mexico. The menu will feature some of the Taqueria La Esquina classics, like the tacos and Sonoran dogs. They will also add higher-end meals, like pastor trompos that will be brought to the table so customers can cut their own meat. Parrillada, which is like a Mexican barbecue feast featuring meat like carne asada, pork belly and chorizo, is also slated to be on the menu, along with vegan dishes. Since the kitchen is big enough, they are even planning to have a little tortilla factory where they make and package the tortillas themselves. Every taco will be wrapped in delicious homemade tortillas. We'll have a team dedicated to just making and packaging tortillas, we'll probably be selling them as well, Alex said. There's a few things that we'll also have here, like we're going to sell our aprons, hats and non-slip shoes. We're going to sell our own products out of this location that are dedicated to people in the service industry that are as well stylish. In addition to the yummy food, Copal will also have a full agave bar where they will serve drinks like sotol, bacanora and mezcal. One of their drinks is a take on a mezcalita, featuring guajillo syrup, Ancho Reyes liqueur, mezcal, jamaica and jamaica reduction with lime juice. Its then garnished with black salt and edible gold. Right now, Alex is busy upgrading the building to make it better fit their vibe and aesthetic. He hopes to open Copals doors in mid-April, bringing a little bit of Mexico to Broadway. It's a new challenge, Alex said. Even coming from a family of restaurateurs, this is a scope that neither one of us has ever done. I mean, I've worked in kitchens like this, but I've never managed a place or been in charge of anything like this. I'm just mostly excited to see it function, see people eat and watching the way people react to a concept that I think is pretty new here. James D. Watts Jr. Tulsa World Scene Writer Follow James D. Watts Jr. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today The cafe space at the Philbrook Museum of Art, 2727 S. Rockford Road, is now an outpost of Elote, the downtown Mexican restaurant owned by Libby Billings, known as much for its hosting of events such as "Lucha Libre" matches as for its puffy tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas made with local products. The pop-up cafe is located in the museum's main lobby, next door to the Patti Johnson Wilson Theatre and not far from the entrance to the museum's main exhibit space, which presently is hosting "Collidoscope," an exhibit of surrealist mixed-media creations by acclaimed Mexican-American artists the de la Torre Brothers. The menu includes puffy tacos; elote soup, made with creamed sweet corn, a chili-citrus aioli, queso fresco and lime; an avocado Caesar salad; and chips with salsa, guacamole and queso; along with several hot and cold beverages, and sweets such as cakes and cookies. Hours for Elote at Philbrook are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Each Friday, Elote will host Margarita Night at Philbrook from 5 to 9 p.m., when general admission to the museum is only $5, and patrons may enjoy tacos and margaritas indoors or as a picnic on the Philbrook grounds. Half-priced margaritas at En Fuego If you're looking for a place to celebrate National Margarita Day, which happens to be today, Feb. 22, it might behoove one to head to Guthrie Green, 111 Reconciliation Way, and check out En Fuego. En Fuego will offer its house margarita at half price on Thursday, Feb. 22, and with temperatures forecast to be in the 70s, expect the restaurant's walls to be open to enjoy a summer night in the middle of winter. enfuegotulsa.com. Carrabbas Trios for a Cure Carrabba's Italian Grill, 11021 E. 71st St., will be donating a portion of proceeds from sales of four multi-course dishes to the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. The event will take place Sunday, March 3. Carrabba's will pledge $3 from every sale of one of its Trio dishes, featuring three signature recipes on one plate, purchased on March 3 to the foundation. In addition, the restaurant chain will match each donation to help fund critical research. The Trios for a Cure dishes include: Classic Combinations appetizer of hand-breaded calamari, mozzarella marinara and four-cheese stuffed mushrooms, served with marinara sauce. The Chicken Trio, with chicken Bryan, chicken Pollo Rosa and chicken Marsala. The Johnny Trio, with chicken Bryan, mezzaluna pasta and choice of a 7-oz. or 10-oz. Tuscan grilled sirloin Marsala. Carrabbas Italian Classic Trio, with chicken Parmesan, lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo Carrabbas Italian Grill has a longstanding tradition of supporting the community through our Carrabbas Cares program." said Pat Hafner, president of Carrabbas Italian Grill. "We are honored and humbled to bring greater awareness to the devastating disease of breast cancer that is affecting our local communities and impacting our team. Triple negative breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer in which all three receptor tests come back negative. It differs from other types of invasive breast cancer in that it tends to grow and spread faster, has fewer treatment options and tends to have a worse prognosis. One hundred percent of the donations received from Trios for a Cure will help fund triple negative breast cancer research. Go fish at Metro Diner Metro Diner is offering a trio of pescatarian specials that will be available through March 31. The specials include: Teriyaki Salmon Bowl: grilled salmon drizzled with a sweet teriyaki, topped with scallions over seasoned white rice and a veggie mix of shredded carrots, red cabbage, corn, green peppers and onion. Shrimp Platter: 10 shrimp battered and fried, served with cocktail sauce, coleslaw and seasoned fries. Fish & Chips: Crispy beer battered and fried white fish served with tartar sauce, coleslaw and seasoned fries. The Tulsa location of Metro Diner is located at 7474 S. Olympia Ave. in the Tulsa Hills center. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. James D. Watts Jr. Tulsa World Scene Writer Follow James D. Watts Jr. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today My companion and I were among the first people to experience Solaire Food & Wine, the new fine dining restaurant that officially opened Feb. 14 in west Tulsa's Silo Event Center. It was a trip that sparked a slight sense of deja vu exactly one year earlier, we had been among the first diners at Sans Murs, the chef-driven pop-up restaurant operated by the late Paul Wilson at the center. That had been one of the most if not the most memorable meals we had last year. Following Wilson's tragic death in June, the center's owner, Hugo Gutierrez, brought in two young chefs to help fulfill some of the venue's commitments, and that led ultimately to Solaire Food & Wine. Chefs Gabe Lazarde and Jeremiah Rankin oversee the restaurant, which occupies a small wing formerly known as the "sun room" (hence the name "Solaire") at the back of the event center. The chefs plan on alternating roles throughout the year, with one creating the menu and running the kitchen while the other is in charge of hospitality in the front of the house. For the Valentine's Day opening, Lazarde created the five-course menu ($65 per person), which drew from his Venezuelan heritage, as well as from the Spanish and Italian cuisines that are evident in some of the food of Venezuela, while Rankin, who is working toward becoming a certified specialist of wine, came up with the wine pairings that were available for each course ($35 per person). Lazarde and Rankin will continue in these roles for the next few weeks, so there are opportunities to experience this menu for oneself. And you should, because the food we had was exceptional. In an earlier conversation, Lazarde said his goal was to take flavors and ingredients that were for him "very homey and traditional and comfortable," and finding ways to elevate them into something special. Goal achieved. What was most impressive is that, while each dish displayed a great deal of artfulness and technique, everything on each artfully designed plate was there to enhance and augment the natural flavor of the main ingredient. The meal began with a scallop crudo, a slightly seared scallop topped with a fruit salsa and served with a grapefruit reduction and crisp chips of thinly sliced cassava. The thin slices of scallop had a buttery texture and a clean, slightly briny flavor that the salsa and the grapefruit reduction balanced perfectly. It left one wanting more. The scallop came on a single plate for sharing, as was the second course, which was fried plantains with chunks of braised pork belly, served with dollops of whipped goat cheese. I've had numerous preparations of pork belly over the years, most of which were disappointing in one way or another. But this version was just about perfect. The requisite fat had been well-rendered, so that the taste of the meat was at the forefront. The lightly battered ripe plantains brought the sweetness, while the goat cheese added a necessary tanginess. Ube, a purple yam that has its origins in the Philippines and other Pacific regions, was the base for the third course, gnocchi topped with a parsley pesto and house-made sun-dried tomatoes, with a drizzle of olive oil and shavings of Parmesan cheese. The starchiness of the ube gave the gnocchi a chewier than normal texture, but the flavor was intriguingly earthy and sweet. The tomatoes gave a burst of acidic sweetness, while the pesto was floral and nutty. The main course was a braised short rib topped with a red bell pepper gastrique and served with a saffron risotto. The meat was fork-tender and unctuous to the point that one almost didn't need to chew; it practically melted in the mouth. The gastrique added a sweet-sour touch, and while I didn't detect a great deal of saffron flavor, the risotto was exceptionally creamy and flavorful. Dessert was a Basque-style cheesecake, a baked form of this dessert that usually ends up being described as "burnt." Solaire's very definitely has a dark crust that gave a bitter note to the not overly sweet cake, much as the salted rum caramel sauce played with bitter and sweet tastes, with the additional crunch of salt crystals. Any restaurant on its very first night of service is going to have some challenges to overcome, especially when trying to accommodate three mostly sold-out seatings in one night. However, Rankin and his front of the house team made sure the meal was well-paced, and while we did not have the wine pairings with our meal, we could overhear him describe the various offerings to others in a way that was unpretentious and enlightening. Solaire Food & Wine has seating for about 30 at the two- and four-top tables that fill the dining area; there are also a few seats at the bar area. It is an intimate space, but not claustrophobia-inducing, with enough room for servers and patrons to move around easily. Lazarde's menu will be offered through March 29. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. We understand that people are concerned, ... and we can assure everyone that this incident is being taken seriously and is being investigated Owasso police say the death of a local high school student was not the result of trauma as they investigate threats made against the school district, one of which the FBI has deemed credible. Nex Benedict, 16, who identified as nonbinary and used gender-neutral pronouns, died Feb. 8, one day after they were involved in a fight at Owasso High School, police say. While the investigation continues into the altercation, preliminary information from the medical examiners office is that a complete autopsy was performed and indicated that the decedent did not die as a result of trauma, police said in a statement Wednesday afternoon. At this time, any further comments on the cause of death are currently pending until toxicology results and other ancillary testing results are received. The official autopsy report will be available at a later date. Benedict has also been referred to as Dagny, a name their family continued to use at the 16-year-olds funeral and on a GoFundMe campaign page. In a statement released by its attorneys, the Benedict family called on all school, local, state and national officials to join forces to determine why this happened, to hold those responsible to account and to ensure it never happens again. Many of the questions posed by friends, family, media and other concerned citizens are also top of mind for those left to honor Nexs memory, the familys statement reads. While various investigations are still pending, the facts currently known by the family, some of which have been released to the public, are troubling at best. We urge those tasked with investigating and prosecuting all potentially liable parties to do so fully, fairly and expediently. Notwithstanding, the family is independently interviewing witnesses and collecting all available evidence. The Benedict family also asked that any threats, or acts, of violence, against students, employees and personnel, or any other persons associated with the Owasso Public Schools, cease immediately. Owasso Police Lt. Nick Boatman told the Owasso Reporter on Wednesday that the Owasso Police Department received information from the district the previous morning about a serious threat made against a school administrator. The FBI has identified this threat as credible. It was a specific threat against a specific school official, Boatman said. Since then, there have been many more vague threats against the school system, school officials, schools themselves. The Owasso Police Department, in partnership with the FBI and the Oklahoma Counter Terrorism Intelligence Center, is investigating around 10 to 20 overall message threats that had been sent to the school district within the last two days. Boatman said the circumstances surrounding the threats have led police to believe they are targeted toward the districts secondary schools, but they have units stationed across the districts 15 elementary schools, as well. It has caused us to increase our police presence at all of our campuses, Boatman said. Our Patrol Division is now at as many drive-throughs, drive-bys, walk-throughs, sit-and-patrols, directed patrols, at all of the different schools. Owasso Public Schools said in a letter to parents on Wednesday: We are taking every threat seriously and are working diligently with agencies to determine the credibility of each threat. Each of our schools are continuing with operations as normally as possible. We did not want parents to be alarmed should they see increased security at our buildings. We will continue to provide parents with updated information. Edmond Public Schools Superintendent Angela Grunewald and the districts attorney, Andy Fugitt, on Tuesday announce a lawsuit against the Oklahoma State Board of Education after threats over the districts accreditation because The Glass Castle and The Kite Runner are in the libraries of the districts three high schools. 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 Artificial intelligence may be a reality, but for most Oklahomans its probably more like a real puzzle. Which is why some legislators want to get a regulatory handle on it. Artificial intelligence isnt just coming. Its here, state Rep. Jeff Boatman, R-Tulsa, said Tuesday. With that in mind, Boatman and a few other House members began sketching the outline of state AI regulations with an Oklahoma House of Representatives committee meeting devoted to AI in both the public and private sector. The meeting included passage of Boatmans admittedly preliminary draft of an Oklahoma Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights and several other measures. As is often the case with emerging technologies and industries, controlling AI without chasing it away is a difficult task. Some in the business want free rein, others fear the dangers of AIs potential, and still others want to use regulation to further their endeavors while handicapping others. While we dont, in any way, want to put up any barriers or hindrances on innovation and development, we do want to make sure our citizens understand what rights they do have, Boatman said. As now written, Boatmans HB 3353 is a fairly simple four-page document that defines artificial intelligence and real people and lists eight basic rights, all of which have to do with making those real people aware of interactions with AI. Boatman, who has a technology background, said hes already received pushback about a provision guaranteeing individuals the right to know when their data is being used in an artificial intelligence model and to opt out of it. According to Boatman, that boat may have already sailed. Data mining and AI are already so entwined in society that extracting an individual from the system may already be unfeasible. Also adopted at Tuesdays committee meeting were AI measures by Rep. Arturo Alonso Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City, a recent mechanical engineering graduate of the University of Oklahoma, and Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton. Paes bill, HB 3577, would require insurers to disclose to patients and providers the use of AI algorithms in utilization decisions that is, whether to approve treatments or claims. Pae cited a Pro Publica report that over a period of two months in 2022, Cigna doctors denied more than 300,000 claims as part of a review process that used artificial intelligence, with Cigna doctors spending an average of 1.2 seconds on each case. Alonso Sandovals HB 3825 bans the use of synthetic media in political campaigns without the subjects consent or a prominent disclosure. The bill defines synthetic media as an image, an audio recording, or a video recording of an individuals appearance, speech, or conduct that has been created or intentionally manipulated with the use of generative adversarial network techniques or other digital technology in a manner to create a realistic but false image, audio, or video. State Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, asked if Alonso Sandovals bill would have applied to a mailer against her in the last election that depicted her sitting on the presidents lap. Yes. Unless you consented to it, Alonso Sandoval replied. Alonso Sandovals second measure, HB 3828, requires state agencies to inventory and make public their use of artificial intelligence systems. All four bills are now eligible to be heard by the full House. 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 Sex education and classroom discussions of just about any related topic would be much more complicated and restricted by legislation narrowly advanced from an Oklahoma House of Representatives committee on Tuesday. Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole told the House General Government Committee his House Bill 3120 is intended to get parents more involved in their childrens education by changing the current opt-out requirement for sex ed instruction to opt-in. The provisions of HB 3120, however, extend beyond the simple parental consent mentioned in its title. HB 3120 tightly dictates what Oklahoma K-12 classrooms can and cannot discuss regarding sex and gender or prohibits schools from giving any consideration to nonbinary or transgender identity. And, for reasons Williams could not explain, the bill deletes statutory language that requires teaching students the meaning of consent as it pertains to physical contact. As the father of a 3-year-old girl, the notion of consent is very important to me, said Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, who joined with the committees two Democrats in voting against HB 3120. Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman, said he didnt understand why teaching kids not to rape each other would be considered objectionable. The measure passed 4-3 after Williams promised to reconsider his position on the consent language. That section was not the only matter of controversy, however. A section Williams described as protecting school personnel from lawsuits for refusing to use students preferred names and pronouns is actually a stern admonition to adhere to traditional binary definitions of male and female. It shall be the policy of every public school or charter school that is provided or authorized by the Oklahoma Constitution and state laws that a persons sex is an immutable biological trait and that it is false to ascribe to a person a pronoun that does not correspond to the persons sex, the bill says. Later, it enumerates a long list of dos and donts for sex education, including: Do teach that sexual identity and sexual expression is within the binary concept of male and female. Dont teach consent and negotiation skills for sexual activity. Dont present abortion as a safe, reproductive health care choice and right. Do emphasize the risks or potential side effects of other contraceptives. Dont encourage students to seek help from other than parents or guardians. Dont involve health departments in sex education. Not mentioned in Tuesdays meeting was the possibility that districts now teaching sex education, which is not mandated, might decide it is no longer worth the effort should HB 3210 become law. But that would seem to suit Williams. At 74 the oldest member of the Legislature, Williams said no one talked about these things when he was in school and he believes everyone was better for it. Deck noted that the states teen pregnancy rate is significantly lower now than it was then, but Williams said he doesnt believe there is a correlation between that and sex education. It could be just circumstances, he said. No explanation was given for why a bill dealing with common education instruction was not assigned to the Common Education Committee, but General Government Chairman Kevin West, R-Moore, has carried several bills in the same vein as HB 3120 himself. HB 3120 is now eligible to be heard by the full House. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Cam Ranh International Airport in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam will follow international management and operation standards which are similar to those at Changi Airport in Singapore. With such a big change, the local airport is moving toward increasing its capacity to 8-10 million passengers a year from the current 6.8 million. The application of Singaporean standards at Cam Ranh International Airport is part of a deal signed on Tuesday between Changi Airports International (CAI) and Cam Ranh International Terminal JSC. Pursuant to the agreement, Cam Ranh International Airport will gradually go digital, such as applying check-in technology and refunding value-added tax automatically, as Changi Airport does. CAI, a leading consultant, manager, and investor in the global aviation market, has cooperated with over 60 airports in 20 countries, especially Singapores Changi Airport. Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, Cam Ranh International Airport catered to nearly 6.8 million passengers and hosted operations for over 30 airlines. The airport was linked to more than 80 destinations worldwide then. Johnathan Hanh Nguyen (L, third), investor of Cam Ranh International Airport in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam, discusses the operation model at Changi Airport in Singapore with some partners. Photo: C.R. / Tuoi Tre In early 2024, the airport cooperated with three air carriers to open new routes and turn the province into a new destination for tourists from Europe and Asia. Changi Airport is renowned for modern amenities and services, as well as a duty-free shopping center with a variety of professional stores in which all products from clothes and gifts to electronic items are available. The Singaporean airport also houses lounges, video-game rooms, cinemas, libraries, spas, and cuisine spaces. Apart from automated check-in technology and entry registration services via smartphones, the airport is adopting biometric authentication systems and utilizing artificial intelligence to transport luggage, making it luxurious and more convenient for passengers. Changi Airport has been the best airport in the world for several decades. The collaboration between the Vietnamese firm and CAI is anticipated to boost Vietnam's tourism and enhance cooperation between nations in the region, said Johnathan Hanh Nguyen, a significant shareholder in Cam Ranh International Airport. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! BERLIN -- Germany will earmark up to 3.53 billion euros ($3.8 billion) of public funds to procure green hydrogen and its derivatives between 2027 and 2036, the economy ministry said on Tuesday, as Berlin bets on the fuel to help decarbonize Europe's biggest economy. "The aim of the funding measure is to bring together supply and demand, both in terms of quantities and prices," the ministry said in a statement, adding that money will come from the government's Climate and Transformation Fund. Germany is seeking to expand reliance on hydrogen as a future energy source to cut greenhouse gas emissions for highly polluting industrial sectors that cannot be electrified such as steel and chemicals and reduce dependency on imported fossil fuel. Berlin will have to import up to 70 percent of its hydrogen needs in the future as Europe's largest economy aims to become climate-neutral by 2045, according to the government's updated hydrogen strategy published last summer. The earmarked funds will be used to compensate for the difference between supply and demand prices, the ministry said, adding that it was discussing the details of the use of the new funding with the European Commission. In an effort to speed up the global market ramp-up of green hydrogen and boost investments, the government launched the H2Global project in 2021 by using a "double auction". Under the scheme, hydrogen or hydrogen derivatives are bought cheaply on the world market and sold to the highest bidder. "It's a start. No more, no less," Helge Barlen, a hydrogen expert at AFRY Management Consulting said, adding whether this sum would be sufficient to boost Germany's hydrogen economy would depend on how large the difference between bid and ask prices would evolve. To give an idea of dimensions, Barlen said that with a hypothetical price difference of the 4 euros per kilogram of hydrogen that was the cap in the first H2Global funding tranche, this funding amount would support close to one million metric tons over 10 years. This could serve to decarbonize about five per cent of the German steel industry at its current annual output for example, he added. David Wenger, a hydrogen projects developer, said Tuesday's announcement showed the government's "infinite optimism" regarding the volumes of green hydrogen produced globally in the near future and how quickly output will be scaled up. "The reality is different to what politicians are currently imagining. The industry still has a lot of homework to do to reduce the cost and improve the technology, so I don't think that we will see the announced quantities in 2030," Wenger said. ($1 = 0.9244 euros) A delegation from the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense led by Lieutenant General Pham Truong Son, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam Peoples Army, is attending Asias biggest air show, hosted by Singapore from Tuesday to Sunday this week. The biennial commercial and defense-focused Singapore Airshow gathers more than 900 companies from 45 countries and territories, according to the show organizer. The Vietnamese delegation has explored booths featuring products from global corporations, observed flight displays by air force teams from Singapore, India, the U.S., South Korea, Australia, and China, along with performances by international commercial aircraft corporations. The delegation also met with some partners to discuss issues of mutual concern and bilateral cooperation. During a meeting with Deputy Minister of Defense of the Czech Republic Daniel Blazkovec, Lieutenant General Son extended his thanks to the people of Czechoslovakia, a former state of central Europe comprising the Czech Republic and Slovakia, for their support to Vietnam during the latters struggle for national independence and development. Lieutenant General Son spoke highly of outstanding outcomes of the defense cooperation between Vietnam and the Czech Republic over the past years, hoping that the two nations will expand their collaboration in more fields, such as delegation exchanges and training. During a meeting with Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Air Force Andrew Hunter, Son highlighted the continued success of Vietnam-U.S. bilateral relations. The delegation proposed enhancing cooperation in various areas, emphasizing training programs, rescue operations, military medicine, UN peacekeeping missions, and addressing the consequences of war in Southeast Asia. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Read what is in the news in Vietnam today: Politics -- A delegation of the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence, led by Lieutenant General Pham Truong Son, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam Peoples Army, is attending the Singapore Airshow 2024, the biggest air show held biennially in Asia, from Tuesday to Sunday. Society -- The Peoples Committee of Tra Vinh Province on Tuesday announced that the prime minister has recently endorsed a project constructing a coastal corridor route in the Mekong Delta province, totaling over VND9 trillion (US$366.8 million), with approximately 90 percent of the funding sourced from the Asian Development Bank. -- Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has recently announced that in 2023, they detected and prevented over 29.6 million online attacks in Vietnam, marking a 29-percent decrease from 2022, with the rate of Vietnamese users infected by web threats recorded at 34 percent, positioning Vietnam at 67th place globally in terms of web surfing risks. -- The Peoples Committee of Thua Thien-Hue Province in central Vietnam is going to collect public input between February 26 and March 2 into a plan to turn the province into a centrally-run city. -- Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday reported the successful treatment of a woman who experienced a severe injury, wherein her entire scalp was torn off by a yarn winding machine. -- The Ho Chi Minh City Road Traffic Infrastructure Management Center has proposed that the municipal Department of Transport spend approximately VND14.5 billion ($591,000) on the replacement of 16 traffic lights with synchronized signals in the vicinity of Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The new system is set to be remotely controlled to alleviate congestion around the busy airport. -- As of Tuesday evening, Lao Cai Province in northern Vietnam had effectively controlled a forest fire that spanned approximately 30 hectares in Hoang Lien National Park. The authorities successfully prevented the fire from spreading into the primary forest area by deploying around 860 personnel for firefighting efforts. Business -- The Vietnam Stock Exchange reported a total revenue of VND1.92 trillion ($78.2 million), marking a decrease of nearly 44 percent from 2022, while its total profit after tax amounted to VND1.88 trillion ($76.6 million), down approximately 10 percent compared to the previous year. -- Nearly 459,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Singapore in 2023, according to the Singapore Tourism Board. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday reported the successful treatment of a woman who experienced a severe injury, wherein her entire scalp was torn off by a yarn winding machine. The hospital admitted the patient, K.O., 28, from Tay Ninh Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, on January 18 when her entire scalp was torn off, her helix was broken, and her skull was exposed. She was pulled into a yarn winding machine because she was not wearing a protective suit. She was immediately rushed to the medical center in Go Dau District, Tay Ninh Province before being transferred to Xuyen A General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and then Cho Ray Hospital. Her co-workers took O.s torn-off scalp out of the yarn winding machine, put it in a plastic bag, preserved it with ice, and brought it to the hospital. Doctors at Cho Ray Hospital performed a surgical operation to reconnect her scalp. The surgery lasted for 4.5 hours. The patients scalp has recovered spectacularly. Photo: Thu Hien / Tuoi Tre A month after the surgery, the patient has recovered spectacularly and her hair is growing again. Doctor Ngo Duc Hiep, head of Cho Ray Hospitals department of burns and plastic surgery, said this was the first time the hospital had admitted a patient whose entire scalp was torn off in a labor accident and had successfully treated the case. During the surgery, doctors were divided into two teams with one looking for blood vessels in her scalp and the other seeking blood vessels in the patients head. They had to use microscopes to perform the medical operation. The surgery's success was attributed to swift action in reattaching the patient's scalp, the proper preservation of the detached scalp by the patient's coworkers, and the accurate treatment provided by lower-level medical centers, Dr. Hiep said. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A man from Phu Quoc City, a popular island destination off Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam, was fined VND1 million (US$41) for disposing of household garbage at an old airfield in Duong Dong Ward, a local official confirmed on Wednesday. Aside from receiving an administrative fine, Tran Quoc V. was required to take remedial action to clean up the waste, said Tran My Hiep, chairwoman of the Duong Dong administration. Tran Duy T., the owner of a business facility in Duong Dong, was also fined VND1 million for asking his employee, V., to get rid of the garbage. Following their wrongdoings, both V. and T. promised to discard waste in the right place to help protect the environment on the island. On Tuesday, security camera footage posted on a social media platform showed V. transporting the household garbage, including foam boxes and plastic bags, on a homemade vehicle with a trailer on the back for dumping at the airfield. The video clip aroused widespread discontent among netizens who said his action would leave a negative impact on the environment and the landscape of the island city. Early in December last year, the Phu Quoc administration teamed up with the World Wide Fund for Nature-Vietnam to launch a surveillance camera initiative in Duong Dong. As per the initiative, six surveillance cameras were installed in key areas such as the old airfield, the new international airport, markets, and the Duong Dong River to deter improper disposal of household waste. Violators will face fines ranging from VND100,000 ($4) to VND2 million ($82) for leaving trash in unauthorized locations, and from VND2 million to VND1 billion ($40,922) for the illegal burial of solid waste. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Vietnamese government has approved a project to build a coastal corridor in Tra Vinh Province, located in the Mekong Delta region, at a cost of nearly US$377 million, most of which will be financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), local authorities said. On Tuesday, the Tra Vinh administration announced that Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh had issued a decision to approve the project for constructing a coastal corridor in the province. The total estimated cost for the project is nearly VND9.2 trillion ($377 million). About 90 percent of the cost will be covered by a loan from the ADB and the rest will be paid by the provinces budget. With an expected length of 60.7km, the two-lane corridor will connect Tra Vinh with Ben Tre and Soc Trang Provinces. The decision stipulates that as the project investor, the Tra Vinh authorities bear the responsibility for managing and utilizing the ADB loan. The PM assigned the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MoIT) to inform the ADB of the project's approval and to submit any required proposals essential for its implementation. The contractor has yet to be announced. The Tra Vinh administration is required to join the ADB in preparing a pre-feasibility study report for the corridor to form a basis for the next steps of the project. Upon completion and commencement of operations, the road is expected to enhance the socio-economic development of the localities along the corridor. This, in turn, will contribute to the economic restructuring towards a green, sustainable economy, Tra Vinh Online reported. Chairman of the Tra Vinh Peoples Committee Le Van Han underlined the corridor's crucial role in fostering socio-economic development in Tra Vinh and the entire delta region, Vietnam Economic Times magazine reported. This specific project is part of the larger $1.76 billion initiative approved by the prime minister in September 2021. The comprehensive plan aims to establish a 740km coastal route connecting Ho Chi Minh City with seven provinces in the Mekong Delta region, namely Tien Giang, Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, and Kien Giang, according to MoIT. The additional six localities in the region include Can Tho City and the provinces of Long An, Vinh Long, Hau Giang, Dong Thap, and An Giang. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! After playing a role in the Vietnamese movie Dao, Pho, and Piano,' Oraiden Manuel Sabonete, a 24-year-old Mozambican junior at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology, became famous both on social media and at his university. He portrayed a French soldier in the smash hit movie, which premiered at the National Cinema Center in Hanoi during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday, celebrated from February 8 to 14. The movie was first screened at 18 Beta Medias cinemas from Wednesday, local media reported. It is expected to hit screens nationwide as soon as possible, according to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Sabonete recounted that he was called Duc in Vietnamese by his teachers and friends after he arrived in the Southeast Asian nation as a Vietnamese government scholarship recipient. Duc, which means virtue, is a beautiful and meaningful name, he said. Oraiden Manuel Sabonete (C), an African student, is surprised to become famous after playing a role in the Dao, Pho and Piano movie. Photo: Nguyen Bao / Tuoi Tre Sabonete expressed his surprise to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Tuesday afternoon, noting that his photos depicting his role in the movie 'Dao, Pho and Piano' had unexpectedly gone viral. Many strangers added me as a friend [on social media], while my friends texted and phoned me to congratulate me on my performance in this movie," he shared. Some of them expressed their regrets about failing to book a movie ticket. I am so glad to get the attention and love from Vietnamese people. I am proud of being an African and a Mozambican, and playing a part in a movie about Vietnamese history." Sabonete recalled that he spent five days filming with the crew in 2022 and 2023. Oraiden Manuel Sabonete (C) in a scene of the Dao, Pho and Piano movie. Photo: Supplied He attributed the success of the movie to the determination and dedication of the directors, actors, producers, and staff, along with their close collaboration, he said. He explained that his decision to come to Vietnam for study was influenced by a history class he took in eighth grade. The lesson on global history left a lasting impression on him, particularly highlighting Vietnam as a resilient nation with unyielding and friendly people, he remarked. When he was 19 years old, Sabonete made a decision to stop studying computer engineering at Lurio University, one of the leading universities of engineering and natural science in Mozambique, to secure a scholarship from the Vietnamese government. When I decided to come to Vietnam to study, my relatives and friends prevented me as they thought that a war was taking place in Vietnam," he recalled. However, I explained to them that the war was over and was in the past. Vietnam is now safe." Upon arriving in Vietnam, the African student enrolled in a Vietnamese language course at the Thai Nguyen University of Education in northern Thai Nguyen Province, completing a one-year program. Achieving a perfect score of 10 in a language speaking test, Sabonete opted to pursue a major in electrical engineering at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. He believes that knowledge about the major will help him contribute to developing the energy industry in Mozambique. When he has trouble with new Vietnamese vocabularies and terms, Sabonete always asks for help from his teachers and friends. He spends three or four hours a day self-learning to catch up with his classmates. Studying at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology is a challenge. When I feel dispirited, I always call my father to tell him about my studies," he said. Every time I wanted to give up, I surfed Facebook and saw my friends in the homeland express their admiration for me and consider me an exemplar. "As such, I was again determined to pursue my learning at the university." Overcoming all obstacles related to the language, he got the maximum scores for some courses, such as Marxist - Leninist Political Economy, which is difficult even for many Vietnamese students. During his second school year, Sabonete and his friends conducted a scientific study on the economic relationship between Vietnam and Mozambique to compete in a contest for universities, and won the first prize. In 2023, Sabonete and his lecturer Nguyen Thi Phuong Dung created two works to participate in a contest on protecting the Communist Party of Vietnams ideological foundation, and bagged the first prize for the magazine category and the second prize for the video one. He and his two Lao and Cambodian friends joined a Vietnamese Speaking Contest in October last year, and received a consolation prize. Oraiden Manuel Sabonete revealed that he would return to Mozambique to help develop his country. Photo: Nguyen Bao / Tuoi Tre Dao, Pho and Piano is among the movies financed by Vietnam's national budget. Directed by Phi Tien Son, the movie is inspired by a 60-day-and-night fight to defend Hanoi in late 1946 and early 1947. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! In the days following the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival, which occurred from February 8 to 14, Nam O Beach in Da Nang City, the capital of central Vietnam, has become a popular destination for visitors from both near and far. Enthusiasts flock to the beach to marvel at rocks adorned with lush moss, creating a picturesque and captivating sight. Many locals and tourists crowded the reef off the beach in Hoa Hiep Ward, Lien Chieu District on Tuesday morning to check out the pristine landscape. When it is sunny, moss-blanketed rocks turn the reef green and sparkling in the midst of crystal clear blue waters. Some locals said that the optimal time to visit the moss-covered rock reef is during the spring, immediately after the Tet festival. The moss undergoes a growth period of over half a month, creating a vibrant and enchanting display on the rocks. Moss-coated rocks make Nam O Beach in Da Nang City more captivating in the spring. Photo: Le Trung / Tuoi Tre Visitors are recommended to travel to the beach at sunrise or sunset, when tides ebb as the moss-blanketed rocks appear and make the reef look like a vast green carpet on the surface of the water. Phan Thi Mai Phuong, a 32-year-old resident of Thua Thien-Hue Province, a neighbor of Da Nang, said that many images of the charming moss-coated rock reef that went viral on social media urged her and her friends to tour Nam O Beach. It is really wonderful to admire these moss-covered rocks, while taking photos with the sea, the reef, and the green carpet, said Phuong. Visitors take a wefie with the reef of moss-covered rocks in Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Le Trung / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Sabir Pirzada, Alice Bell, Noora Niasari, Danny Philippou Australians in Film and Screen Australia have opened applications for its Untapped Masterclasses from March to June 2024. Untapped, which has been running for the past four years, is Australias premier artist development program for undiscovered and historically excluded Australian writers and directors to create career pathways into the LA market. Speakers include co-writer and co-director of the global breakout hit, A24s Talk to Me, Danny Philippou; executive producer and writer of Amazons Expats, Alice Bell; writer and director of indie feature Shayda, Noora Niasari; and writer of Star Wars: The Bad Batch and Person of Interest, Sabir Pirzada. Up to six recipients will be selected to participate in anonline Development Lab between August and November 2024, with each receiving individualized mentorship, story consultation, creative feedback and professional development support. First Nations Australians; people who are culturally and linguistically diverse, living with disability, LGBTQIA+ and/or who are living in regional and remote locations are encouraged to apply. Peter Ritchie, Executive Director of Australians in Film, said: We are absolutely thrilled that Danny, Alice, Noora and Sabir have agreed to be our Masterclass speakers for Untapped 2024. Craft and skill are the very foundation of telling a successful story, and each of our Masterclass speakers will bring a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to Australian artists wanting to tell their unique stories to the world. Enormous thanks to everyone at Screen Australia and all our partners who continue to keep the doors open for Australias best emerging writers and directors. Deirdre Brennan, CEO of Screen Australia, said: Were looking forward to finding another talented cohort of emerging and diverse Australian storytellers for Untapped 2024. This unique program ensures they will have the skills, project direction and global insights needed to navigate the US market. Danny, Alice, Noora and Sabir will each play a pivotal role in guiding participants offering their wealth of experience and expertise. Were incredibly excited to have them on board. Writer Miranda Aguilar, an Untapped 2023 participant, said: Breaking into the industry can be an incredibly daunting, opaque process. Programs like Untapped are critical to bringing in new talented voices that might otherwise be dissuaded from trying to enter this line of work. I genuinely appreciated how AiF and Untapped really cared about setting us on the right path forward in order for us to courageously forge our way through. Untapped applications are open untilMarch 15 at 11:59 p.m. (AEDT). australiansinfilm.org/untapped The Bells have been hauling their carnival rides and workers across Australia for six generations -but now battle to keep the show alive. 8:40pm Thursday on SBS. Avatar: The Last Airbender Gogglebox The Front Bar Grand Designs Transformations Emergency Woolworths chief executive Brad Banducci is retiring after 8 years, just days after a Four Corners interview in which he was seen walking out. The supermarket giant has announced on the ASX that it is promoting Amanda Bardwell to the top job, after an extensive international search process. Ms Bardwell has worked for the company for 23 years and is currently heading up its sub-division, WooliesX. The announcement comes as Woolworths releases its latest profit results and as the company faces ongoing allegations of price gouging and unfair practices with suppliers. Just this week, ABCs Four Corners aired footage of the departing CEO walking out of an interview. The interview delved into how the countrys biggest supermarket chains profit off rising prices. Dressed in an employee uniform, Banducci spoke to ABC reporter Angus Grigg, who said the walkout followed a pretty basic line of questioning about competition law. Grigg had asked: Rod Sims, the former head of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), says that we have one of the most concentrated supermarkets [sectors] in the world, is he lying? Banducci claimed: Its not true before listing how other supermarkets operate close to Woolworths stores. Grigg interjected, saying: The former head of the ACCC says before being cut off himself by Banducci. Retired by the way, Banducci said. Grigg then said: I dont think you would impugn his integrity and his understanding of competition law. He retired 18 months ago. Flustered, Banducci asked if that part of the interview can be removed. I shouldnt have said that, he told Grigg. Were on the record, youve said it lets just move on, Grigg responded. This then prompted Banducci to stand up, telling Grigg I think Im done. As he gets ready to walk off, he can be heard saying I do this with good intent. I dont do this with bad intent. Youre walking out, really? Grigg asked. Banducci later returned to finish the interview, with a startled-looking Grigg saying: Lets keep going. Source; ABC 1news Colombia's leftist ELN rebels pulled out of peace talks with the government on Tuesday, accusing it of violating ground rules set up when the negotiations began in 2022. The National Liberation Army said in a statement that these sixth-round talks being held in Cuba were "frozen" until the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro keeps its promises. The ELN complained that while the talks are supposed to be at the national level, the government of southeast Narino department has announced its own separate talks with ELN fighters there next month. The ELN has a centralised command but its units have a degree of autonomy, which makes negotiating with the guerrilla army difficult. The ELN statement said that because of these regional talks "the process has gone into crisis." Since his election in 2022, Petro has sought to put an end to six decades of conflict between the country's security forces, guerrillas, right-wing paramilitaries and drug gangs. One of the guerrilla groups consists of renegade forces from the FARC rebel army that rejected a peace accord reached in 2016. However, the president's "total peace" process has faced multiple setbacks with the guerrillas, who are linked to drug trafficking and are accused by rights groups of taking advantage of various ceasefires to expand their influence, seize more territory and recruit new members. The ELN boasts an estimated 5,800 fighters and has been fighting the Colombian state since the guerrilla army was founded in 1964 in the wake of the Cuban revolution. (AFP) Read more on FRANCE 24 English Read also: Colombia's ELN guerrilla group frees father of Liverpool striker Luis Diaz Colombia deadliest country for green activists in 2022, says report Colombian drug lord 'Otoniel' sentenced to 45 years in US prison EU members approved a 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia on Wednesday, banning nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children. "EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russia's aggression against Ukraine," Belgium, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said on social media platform X, calling it "one of the broadest approved by the EU". The new package will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from traveling to the EU or doing business there, but no fresh measures against specific economic sectors, EU diplomatic sources said. The sources said the focus of the listings is roughly split between entities and individuals that are part of Russia's military industrial complex and those involved in trafficking and kidnapping Ukrainian children. One North Korean and one Belarusian firm were also added, the sources said. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said last March that Russia had transferred "at least hundreds" of children from orphanages and care homes in occupied regions of Ukraine, and "many" have been given up for adoption. The companies added are mostly Russian and include three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company, the sources said. "We are also further cutting Russias access to drones." (REUTERS) Read more on FRANCE 24 English Read also: Western sanctions on Russian diamonds set to disrupt a global industry EU hopes to crack down on loophole exports to Russia in new sanctions package EU agrees ban on 'more than two thirds' of Russian oil imports (Getty Images) Slow clap for former prime minister Liz Truss, who is in Washington tomorrow to deliver a speech on Taking back our parties at the 2024 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). The conference is often a raucous affair, but this weeks jamboree in the US capital will be a full-on Make America Great Again (MAGA) fiesta. Perhaps it has escaped Trusss notice that the Trumpists have no need to take back their party. It is already theirs. The foreign visitor with the most political stardust will be the chainsaw-wielding Argentinian president Javier Milei, who will be sharing the limelight with Donald Trump on Saturday. While they will be addressing plans to sink the deep state, Truss has already been sunk by it. Her talk will be followed by an afternoon session called, Putting ones head in a gas stove (a reference to how the Democrats are going to force Americans to buy electric cookers). The carnival barker is CPAC chairman Matt Schlapp, who faces allegations of sexually assaulting a former Republican male staffer. No need to worry, though, given Trumps multiple lawsuits. With Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner keeping their distance, Trump has recently decreed his daughter-in-law Lara Trump wife of second son Eric should become co-chair of the Republican Party so she, too, has been given a speaking slot tomorrow. This weeks Conservative Political Action Conference will be a full-on Make America Great Again fiesta Now that Trump has all but wrapped up the Republican presidential nomination, all eyes at the conference will be on the vice-presidential contenders jostling for position. As Schlapp announced on X: The speaker who performs the best under pressure and has the best charisma at CPAC might just be the person picked by Donald Trump to be his vice-president. It is the political equivalent of the Hunger Games. I used to think Nikki Haley, the former US ambassador to the United Nations, would be a shrewd pick, given her ability to reach suburban female voters and upstage vice-president Kamala Harris on foreign affairs and their shared South Asian heritage. But things have turned nasty on the campaign trail. Story continues Haley has accused 77-year-old Trump of being unhinged while he has implied her husband Michael, a major in the South Carolina national guard, is only serving his country in Djibouti, on the horn of Africa, to escape his wife. Haley will be hard-pressed to stay in the race beyond Super Tuesday on March 5, when the largest US states hold their primaries, but she has vowed to go down fighting. I feel no need to kiss the ring. I have no fear of Trumps retribution. I am not looking for anything from him, she said yesterday. My own political future is of zero concern. If this is the case, Haley will be in a category of one. A spokesman for Trump predicted crudely that she would drop down and kiss ass once she quits the race. The vice-president Veepstakes have turned the most high-profile Republican contenders into world-class flatterers and contortionists in a bid to please Trump. Of course it is possible that he will pick a relatively unknown running mate, who is no threat to him in the popularity stakes, much like Mike Pence in 2016, but after he refused to overturn the 2020 election, ostentatious displays of fealty are at a premium. A CPAC favourite, Kristi Noem, 52, the South Dakota governor, hired a sculptor in 2020 to put Trumps face on a replica of the granite monument, Mount Rushmore, alongside George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Trump was thrilled. Noem also boasted to the National Rifle Association last spring that her two-year-old grand-daughter already owns several guns. Noem will be speaking on Friday lunchtime, shortly before Nigel Farage takes the stage (eat your heart out, Liz). On Friday night, Vivek Ramaswamy, 38, the Harvard-and-Yale-educated pharmaceutical muti-millionaire, will be bashing the elites and touting America First policies at the big ticket Ronald Reagan dinner. (At $395 a head, it is not too late to apply.) Ramaswamy has belittled Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenksy as a comedian in cargo pants and this week compared the death of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny in an Arctic gulag to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange being held in a foreign prison in Britain. Does anybody doubt that if Trump were to criticise Vladimir Putin, his would-be Veeps would join in the chorus of condemnation? Their whataboutism brings to mind a tribute to Reagan in 1999 by the father of modern conservatism, William Buckley, called, When Character Counted. Today, not so much. At a Fox News town hall event in South Carolina last night Trump bemoaned his own legal problems as a form of Navalny. For all intents and purposes, this is now the official Republican position. The Veepstakes have turned the most high-profile Republican contenders into world-class flatterers in a bid to please Trump JD Vance, 39, the ambitious Ohio senator with his sights on the vice-presidency, refused to meet Zelensky at the Munich security conference a few days ago on the grounds that he would not learn anything new. Kari Lake, a former TV presenter turned CPAC star, who is vying to become a senator for Arizona if she does not make VP, insisted the Ukraine war was lost. Its not salvageable, she said bluntly. On Monday Lake, 54, tried to reach out to admirers of John McCain, the late senator for Arizona and 2008 Republican presidential candidate, after losing her bid for Arizona governor in 2022 for being too MAGA. At the time, she had called the former Vietnam POW a loser. Lake claimed she had only been joking, a familiar Trumpist trope. McCains daughter Megan, herself a TV personality, responded unforgivingly on X: No peace, bitch. We see you for who you are and are repulsed by it. This is the circus Truss has joined. It makes Democratic grumbles about Harriss presence as Joe Bidens vice-president look laughably mild. Her performance has improved recently but White House aides are still reluctant to let her loose on the public. They will have to let her show she is capable of leading the country, if necessary. Even Navalny could see in the faraway Polar Wolf penal colony the fate of the US cant rest purely on an 81-year-olds shoulders. In one of his last letters, Navalny wrote: Trumps agenda and plans look truly scary. What a nightmare. And its clear that if during the course of the campaign Bidens health fails, he can forget something etc, then Trump will become president. Surely that obvious thing must worry the Democrats? It does. But not as much as it should. 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You are here: Home Views & Analysis Indian Muslims need the likes of Madhura Swaminathan, not Zahir Kazis Let me tell you, Dr Zahir Kazi, with all due respect. You failed the Muslim students. You failed me and my community, your community. Read More Thursday February 22, 2024 12:20 PM , Aleem Faizee, ummid.com Lets begin from here. If you are in the field of social and community work, you will meet various types of people. The best and most committed among them all are those who render their services without caring if their contributions are acknowledged and rewarded for or not. The next lot of people is of those who are committed to social cause but they expect rewards and acknowledgements to keep going. Not that worst anyway as long as the actual aim is not compromised. But, the worst are the people, who somehow or by chance, get themselves involved in social and community projects, most of the time initiated by others, and start claiming all credits in their name. They will resort to cheap publicity stunts, seek regular media coverage come what way, and lobby for awards, if not prestigious, will be ready to pay for the sponsored ones. These are the people who will, in most cases, demean and degrade their colleagues so as to lift their own status. Unfortunately, the last category of the people has dominated todays world, especially the Muslim society, as never before. Ironically, the Narendra Modi government, to score some cheap brownie points, took this ugly race for awards and credit war to their lowest level. True, the erstwhile government awardees too were of one or the other political leanings. Yet, the government awards till 2014 were not decided on the basis of political interests and were never a sell-out. The best example is that of Fali S Nariman the renowned jurist who died today. He had resigned as Additional Solicitor General of India in 1975 protesting against Emergency imposed in the country by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Nevertheless, the UPA government led by the Congress Party awarded him Padma Vibhushan in 2007 when Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister and Padma Bhushan in 1991 when PV Narismha Rao was the PM. Same cannot be said for the BJP government in New Delhi which is led by Narendra Modi as Prime Minister. The Modi government in the last month announced Bharat Ratna to five Indians LK Advani, PV Narsimha Rao , Choudhary Charan Singh, M S Swaminathan and Karpoori Thakur . The National Awards are traditionally announced by the Rashtrapati Bhavan. But, here Modi himself announced the awards that too on social media. Besides Bharat Ratna, the government also announced other national awards that included Padma Shri to Dr Zahir Kazi. Dr Zahir Kazi, the President of 150-year-old Anjuman-I-Islam Mumbai since the last 13 years, has been conferred the fourth-highest civilian awards in the Literature and Education category in recognition of his work in promoting Education, especially among the Minorities. The conferment of a National Award on someone from their own should be a proud moment for any community. And, for me, Dr Zahir Kazi, you deserve a bigger award than the Padma. For, the Integrated Technical Campus the Anjuman has established in Panvel under your leadership is a masterpiece, infrastructure-wise as well as in terms of quality education. I would be mean if I dont acknowledged this as my own son has graduated from there and today he is a successful Architect . The governments decision to confer Bharat Ratna on five Indian nationals highest in a year and the manner they were announced, are being questioned. But, more than the number and the manner the awards were announced bypassing the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the political observers are calling out the Modi government for demeaning the highest civilian award of the country and exploiting it for political mileage. It is now no longer a secret that the Bharat Ratna was conferred on Karpoori Thakur and Choudhary Charan Singh so as to lure Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RLD leader Jayant Choudhary back to the BJP fold, and M S Swaminathan was chosen for the award to please angry farmers. The reasons why the Modi government thought LK Advani deserves the highest national award of the country are obvious to everyone. The idea to lure Nitish Kumar and Jayant Choudhary back to the BJP worked well and as planned. However, Bharat Ratna to M S Swaminathan a distinguished Agronomist, Agricultural Scientist, Plant Geneticist, Administrator, and Humanitarian who is also billed as the Main Architect of Green Revolution in India, in a sheer bad luck for the Modi government, boomeranged. Far from pleasing the farmers, the Modi government found itself in an embarrassing situation when M.S. Swaminathans daughter, Madhura Swaminathan, called out in public the present regimes aggressive and anti-farmer position that too at an event held to celebrate the conferment of Bharat Ratna to her father. Addressing the event, Madhura Swaminathan not only slammed the Modi government for laying nails and barricades to block the protesting farmers, but without mincing words, she also said that the farmers are not criminals and they must be taken along. The farmers of Punjab today are marching to Delhi. I believe, according to the newspaper reports, there are jails being prepared for them in Haryana, there are barricades, there are all kinds of things being done to prevent them. These are farmers, they are not criminals. Don't treat our farmers like they are criminals. - Dr. Madhura Swaminathan, Economist and Daughter of Prof. MS Swaminathan, during the celebration of the Bharat Ratna awarded to her father.#FarmerProtest2024 #FarmersProtest #DelhiChalo pic.twitter.com/UqpilSHQU8 Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) February 14, 2024 I think if we have to continue and honour M S Swaminathan we have to take the farmers with us in whatever strategy were planning for the future, Madhura, herself an Economist who is the Head of Economic Analysis Unit at the Indian Statistical Institute (Bengaluru), said. It is said that Modi government does not give anything without getting something bigger in return. But, unlike the motives behind the Bharat Ratna to five Indian nationals listed above, it is not clear why Dr Zahir Kazi was chosen for the National Award as there are many others in India, and also among the Minorities, who have similar, if not better, records of working and promoting Education, especially among the Minorities. I also chose to ignore the question, which others are asking, whether it was appropriate for Dr Zahir Kazi to accept this award at the time when the community is facing immense challenges because of the attitude of the present dispensation towards the Muslims in India. I wont also agree in the absence of any credible evidence that Dr Zahir Kazi lobbied for the award as claimed by his critics, based on the reports, along with the photos and videos that emerged in the last few years, showing him doing everything to remain close to the power corridors and please the present rulers, and also hobnobbing with known Muslim haters. My contention, Dr Zahir Kazi, is this. An event - similar to the one organised to celebrate the conferment of Bharat Ratna to Dr MS Swaminathan, was organised by the General Council of Anjuman I Islam at Alma Latifi Hall, M H Saboo Siddik Complex in Mumbai on Feb 19, 2024 in your honour. The media focus was on this event as, besides other dignitaries, Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais was also present. At this event, I wished, Dr Zahir Kazi, to be like Madhura Swaminathan. I had expected Dr Zahir Kazi to bluntly say to the government - like Madhura Swaminathan did, enough is enough, and it must now put a stop on the atrocities committed against the Muslims in India. You, Dr Zahir Kazi, should have made it clear to the present dispensation that the Muslims too are Indian citizens, it should take them along and must stop treating them like criminals. Dr Zahir Kazi, it was the most appropriate occasion in the present situation, for you to ask the government to put breaks on the bulldozers that - without any accountability and mocking all international and humanitarian laws, are demolishing the homes of poor Muslims. It was the moment for you, Dr Zahir Kazi, to urge the government to stop the Hindus from claiming the Muslim places of worship. It was also the moment for you to remind the government that round-the-clock hate speeches and anti-Muslim rhetoric broadcasted live on the National Televisions and in public rallies addressed by the leaders affiliated to the government have crossed all limits and the government must act against such nuisances. Dr Zahir Kazi, you must have been aware, how the majority of Muslims, especially the poor and weak, have become vulnerable in ten years of Modi rule. Travelling in trains and on roads with exposed Muslim identities has become extremely dangerous. Muslim traders and businesses are facing boycott in various parts of the country. Muslims face arrest I wished you had used the moment to say to the government without mincing words that there is an urgent need for course correction and make Muslims feel safe in the country. Dr Zahir Kazi you have been awarded for your contributions in the field of Education. You should have mustered the courage to tell the government to restart the discontinued Scholarships and Fellowships for the Muslim students. But let me tell you, Dr Zahir Kazi, with all due respect. You failed the Muslim students. You failed me and my community, your community. Sycophants surrounding you are hailing you as a Hero. But you missed the opportunity to be a LEADER. Alas, the Indian Muslims have quite a few Zahir Kazis in their rank, but not one Madhura Swaminathan. [The writer, Aleem Faizee, is Founder Editor ummid.com and Chairman SEWA. He can be reached at aleem.faizee@gmail.com] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home India Protest over 'Lioness Sita' and 'Lion Akbar' caged in same enclosure The Hindu group is demanding that the lioness named 'Sita' should be separated from the 'lion Akbar'. Read More Wednesday February 21, 2024 9:35 AM , Syed Ali Mujtaba [Representation] Chennai: The Calcutta High Court is hearing a petition filed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) cadres as to why a zoo in Siliguri, West Bengal has put a lioness named 'Sita' in the same enclosure with a lion that shares the name with the 'Mughal Emperor Akbar'. The Hindu group is demanding that the lioness named 'Sita' should be separated from the 'lion Akbar'. They should not share the same enclosure as the two animals belonging to different religious faiths and as such smack love jihad, which is sacrilegious, the VHP said. The petition in the court filed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) says such a misdemeanor has hurt Hindu religious sensibilities and the animals should be separated. Sita cannot stay with Akbar, VHP leader Anup Mondal told reporters in Kolkata. Such naming of animals after the name of religious deities is very much sacrilegious and tantamount to blasphemy, media reports quoted Mondal as saying. In its petition, the VHP has also demanded action against the officials of the zoo in Siliguri where the two animals male and female are put in the same cage. Alarmed by the VHP protest, the zoo officials separated the two lions and transferred them to the zoo in Tripura. The protests by the VHP have sparked concerns in India about the rising intolerance by the Hindu hardliner groups. And, this is cited as yet another example of how Hindu extremist groups are raising the Spector of Intolerance and setting an example of how their actions and words may inspire the coming generation. [Syed Ali Mujtaba is a journalist. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home India Renowned Jurist Fali S Nariman no more Renowned Jurist and Constitutional Lawyer Fali S Nariman passed away Wednesday February 21, 2024. Read More Wednesday February 21, 2024 12:51 PM , ummid.com News Network New Delhi: Renowned Jurist and Constitutional Lawyer Fali S Nariman passed away Wednesday February 21, 2024. He was 95. A strong supporter of Civil Liberties and Secularism, Nariman was a distinguished public voice whose critical opinions about judicial developments carried much weight. Landmark Cases Fali S Nariman had been associated with several landmark cases, including the famous National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) verdict, during his long career as a lawyer. Fali Nariman also appeared in the important Supreme Court Advocates on Record (AoR) Association vs Union of India, 1993 case - which ultimately led to the intorduction of collegium system, T.M.A. Pai case relating to the scope of minority rights under Article 30 and others. Nariman was also one from the few among the legal fraternity who had criticised the SC Judgement on Article 370 case. The State of Jammu and Kashmir was granted Special Status under the Article 370. The Narendra Modi abolished it in August 2019 . The governments decision was challenged in the Supreme Court. The SC however upheld the governments decision. A Long Career Fali S Nariman was born on January 10, 1929 in Rangoon to Parsi parents Sam Bariyamji Nariman and Banoo Nariman. Fali did early schooling in Shimla and completed graduation from Government Law College, Mumbai. He started practice as a lawyer at the Bombay High Court. He was appointed as a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India in 1971. His son, Rohinton Nariman, was a judge of the Supreme Court. In June 1975, he resigned as the Additional Solicitor General of India to protest against the decision of the Indira Gandhi government to declare Emergency. Fali S Nariman was awarded Padma Bhushan in 1991 and Padma Vibhushan in 2007 and Gruber Prize for Justice (2002). He was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Indian Parliament, from 19992005. Condolence messages Condolence messages are pouring in after the demise of Fali S Nariman. Prime Minister Modi called Fali S Nariman 'one among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals' and said he is pained by his death. "Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers", he wrote in his condolence message. In his condolence message, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge termed Fali Nariman's death "a huge loss to the legal system". "The passing away of eminent jurist, senior advocate, and a fierce votary of Constitutional Civil Liberties, Fali S Nariman is a huge loss to the legal system. A Padma Vibhushan recipient, his unwavering commitment to his principles remained steadfast and admirable. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and compatriots. May his soul rest in peace", Kharge wrote. Senior Congress leader and Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi remembered the contributions of Fali S Nariman following his death and also said he was an inspiration for jurists. "His contributions have not only shaped landmark cases, but have also inspired generations of jurists to uphold the sanctity of our Constitution and civil liberties. May his commitment to justice and fairness continue to guide us, even in his absence", Rahul wrote. Condoling the death of Fali Nariman, Faizan Mustafa, academic and legal scholar, wrote: "Nations legendary conscience keeper Fali Nariman who had resigned as ASG on the imposition of emergency in 1975 is no more with us. He never hesitated in criticising even the SC. It is a huge loss for the legal fraternity. May God rest his soul in peace." In his condolence message, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote: "Shocked to learn that eminent jurist and distinguished constitutional lawyer Shri Fali Nariman has passed away. His wisdom was one of the building blocks of our nation's legal system. His demise is a huge loss, but his legacy will remain immortalised in the hearts and minds of all Indians. His works will continue to inspire us." According to senior SC Lawyer Prashnat Bhushan, Nariman was active till he breathed his last. Bhushan also shared on social media Nariman had sent to him just five days ago. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. New Delhi, Feb 21 (UNI) In the wake of farmers' protest, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued advisory to the Punjab Government asking it to maintain law and order, sources said here on Wednesday. According to sources, the Punjab government has been asked to take strict action against those involved in any disruptive activities under the guise of protest. The advisory was issued after, the farmers decided to move ahead to Delhi. It may be mentioned that Sanyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which is leading the farmers' protest in North India had rejected the central government's proposal for 5-year contracts on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for five food crops. UNI RBE CS1424 Phnom Penh, Feb 21 (UNI) Cambodia's National Assembly on Wednesday endorsed Civil Service Minister Hun Many as a new deputy prime minister. Hun Many, who became the minister of the Ministry of Civil Service last August, is a younger brother of current Prime Minister Hun Manet and the youngest son of former Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen. Some 120 lawmakers in attendance, including Hun Manet, unanimously gave Hun Many their vote of confidence. "Based on the result of the vote, I would like to declare that Hun Many won the National Assembly's confidence vote as the deputy prime minister," National Assembly President Khuon Sudary announced at the end of the session. At the event, the parliament also approved the appointments of Sry Thamarong and Pen Vibol, currently ministers attached to the prime minister, as senior ministers in charge of special mission. Speaking before the voting session, Hun Manet said the fresh appointments were made in response to "the necessary need for promoting the most efficient implementation of the political programs of the government in the seventh legislature of the National Assembly". With the latest appointments, the number of deputy prime ministers in the Southeast Asian country has increased to 11, and the number of senior ministers has risen to 23. The National Assembly is made up of 125 lawmakers, including 120 from the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and five from the royalist Funcinpec Party. UNI/XINHUA ARN HA NOI Viet Nam's export of agricultural products recorded impressive growth in the first month of 2024 and is expected to see a breakthrough in the whole year. In January, the export turnover hit US$5.14 billion, up 79.2 per cent year-on-year, with increases reported in almost all commodity groups. According to Deputy General Director of Vina T & T Co Ltd Nguyen inh Muoi, 2024 could be a breakthrough year for the fruit sector now that various products have received good signals from major markets such as Japan, the US, Australia, China, and the EU. It is noteworthy that the potential of most of these markets is very large, and their doors are wide open for Vietnamese fruits, he added. Similarly, rice is also forecast to have a successful year. Right from the beginning of 2024, many rice exporters have received orders. Chairman of the Board of Directors of Trung An High-Tech Agriculture Joint Stock Company Pham Thai Binh said that the price of Viet Nam's 5 per cent broken rice is currently no less than $700 per tonne. According to the Vietnam Food Association, the rice export prices are likely to be pushed up in the coming time, as many countries begin to increase imports and India continues to maintain its ban on exporting certain types of rice. Meanwhile, information from the National Agro-Forestry-Fisheries Quality Assurance Department reveals that the global rice production could near 520 million tonnes this year, while consumption is approaching 525 million tonnes, indicating a potential shortage. Therefore, rice processing and exporting enterprises need to closely monitor the market to efficiently execute existing and new contracts, considering both price and quality. In 2024, the country's rice export volume may be at least the same as in 2023, but the value is certainly 15 to 20 per cent higher. Therefore, the export turnover may surpass $5 billion this year, higher than the $4.8 billion recorded last year, said Binh. Nguyen Viet Anh, General Director of the ORIENT Rice Co. Ltd, said he believes that given the market fluctuations, the adaptability index of enterprises is extremely important because each year brings new scenarios and there are no lessons learned from the previous year that can be effectively applied to the next. Rice remains an essential commodity globally as well as in Viet Nam, so in the near future, there are significant opportunities for production and business in this field, Viet Anh added. He said it is essential for exporting enterprises to enhance their adaptability and flexibility to capitalise on the chances. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung uc Tien stated that the sector has set a target of earning $54-55 billion from agricultural exports this year. To promote the export of agricultural products and maintain a strong and sustainable position in import markets, the ministry will work with businesses to well monitor and manage the production process, issue planting area codes, and take measures to meet requirements of major markets. It will also analyse the market to have specific strategies for each period and each industry, and closely follow major import markets, such as China, the US, Japan, and the EU to promote exports and exploit new and potential markets like Islamic countries, the Middle East, and Africa, Tien emphasised. First batches of agricultural products exported The Mekong Delta province of An Giang on Monday exported 13 tonnes of flat-seeded mango to the Republic of Korea (RoK). This is the first batch under an export contract signed between the GAP Cu Lao Gieng Cooperative in Cho Moi District and the Hoang Phat Fruit Ltd. Co. This is an important event marking the cooperation in production and sales between the cooperative and fruit exporting companies in An Giang and other localities, thus promoting the connection between production and consumption of mango products in a value chain. The same day, the first container of pickled daikon in 2024 from the northern province of Ha Giang was exported to Japan within the cooperation of the Vietnam Misaki Co Ltd. Secretary of the Xin Man District Party Committee Hoang Nhi Son said that the locality has focused on developing typical agricultural products along with the value chain of high-quality goods in order to help ethnic people there tap their agricultural economic potential while increasing incomes for the locals and bringing the provinces agricultural product brand to the world. Hoang Thi Lap, director of the Vietnam Misaki Co Ltd, revealed that in 2024, the company will continue to develop and expand raw material areas, invest in more modern machinery and equipment, and expand the production to meet the increasing quantity and quality requirements. The company has provided farmers with high-quality seeds and fertiliser. Under the co-operative programme, exports include pickled onion, daikon, ginger, and bamboo shoot. The Japanese side has also completed the preliminary processing facilities for daikon with a production scale of 1,000 tonnes per year. VNS HA NOI Viet Nams export-import turnover reached US$1.41 billion during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday which lasted from February 8 - 14, according to the General Department of Vietnam Customs. The agency reported that over 1,000 businesses nationwide engaged in import and export activities during the seven-day period. Meanwhile, nearly 10,000 customs declarations were processed in the reviewed period. During the holiday, Viet Nam earned $730 million from exports, while spending $680 million on imports. The commodity group of phones and components was the largest earner with $282.8 million, making up 38.7% of the total export value during Tet. It was followed by electronic products and components ($263.6 million) and machinery and equipment ($54.4 million), accounting for 36.1% and 7.5%, respectively. Viet Nam imported from the Republic of Korea goods with total value of nearly $239 million, accounting for 35.2% of the total import value during Tet. The department said the import-export value of the country totaled $82.56 billion from January 1-February 14, up 17.1% compared to the same period last year. Of the figure, export revenues hit $43.83 billion, while imports were valued at $38.73 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of over $5.1 billion. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam's rice exports are expected to continue their upward trajectory this year, toward a milestone of US$5 billion in turnover. The year marks a period of anticipated volatility in the global rice market, encompassing fluctuations in production and demand, as well as in related policies from leading exporting nations. Hence, innovation in production and flexible export management are crucial conditions for the Vietnamese rice industry to achieve its growth targets. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, despite a trend of narrowing the rice cultivation area nationwide, the farming sector strives to maintain a stable plantation of 7.1 million hectares in 2024. The output of the grain is projected to exceed 43 million tonnes, with about eight million tonnes for export. This years forecast also suggests that the prices of agricultural input materials will remain high, with potential risks of crop disease outbreaks as well as El Nino-induced severe droughts and water shortages. Therefore, the agricultural sector is set to instruct localities to adjust production plans and structure suitable crop seasons to stabilise the rice supply, especially high-quality sources serving export. Engaging in innovative production activities, many enterprises are focusing on developing varieties and providing scientifically sustainable farming solutions for farmers. On the early days of February, Viet Nam's 5 per cent broken rice was sold overseas for $638 per tonne, surpassing Thai rice of the same grade by $10 per tonne. According to the Viet Nam Food Association, the export prices are likely to be pushed up in the coming time, as many countries begin to increase imports and India continues to maintain its ban on exporting certain types of rice. Meanwhile, information from the National Agro-Forestry-Fisheries Quality Assurance Department reveals that the global rice production could near 520 million tonnes this year, while consumption is approaching 525 million tonnes, indicating a potential shortage. Therefore, rice processing and exporting enterprises need to closely monitor the market to efficiently perform existing and new contracts, considering both price and quality. Nguyen Viet Anh, General Director of the ORIENT Rice Co Ltd, said he believes that given the market fluctuations, the adaptability index of enterprises is extremely important because each year brings new scenarios and there are no lessons learned from the previous year that can be effectively applied to the next. Rice remains an essential commodity globally as well as in Viet Nam, so in the near future, there are significant opportunities for production and business in this field. It is essential for exporting enterprises to enhance their adaptability and flexibility to capitalise on the chances. VNS HA NOI The Peoples Committee of Tay Ho District, Ha Noi, has organised a sticky rice festival and a ceremony to announce the craft of cooking sticky rice in Phu Thuong Village as a national intangible cultural heritage. Phu Thuong, formally known as Ga Village, is famous for its flavoursome, delicious steamed sticky rice. The craft of cooking sticky rice in the village does not have a clear origin but thanks to the water of the Hong River and its fertile silt, the village is endowed with vast fields of premium quality sticky rice - the main ingredient for its culinary specialty. To make a delicious sticky rice dish, Phu Thuong villagers put in a great deal of effort and dedication. Currently, there are three master artisans and around 600 households engaged in the craft in Phu Thuong. The villagers have established their brand, introduced their sticky rice in various markets, festivals and events throughout the country. The Phu Thuong Sticky Rice Festival annually takes place for three days on the 8th, 9th, and 10th days of the first lunar month, which falls on February 17, 18 and 19 this year. During the festival, local residents hold the New Rice Ceremony, offering their homemade sticky rice dishes to the village's patron saint as a gesture of gratitude and seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest. Families also prepare che ba cot (a traditional sweet rice cake) to offer on the ancestral altar at home, expressing gratitude to their ancestors and wishing for good health and prosperity. A sticky-rice-cooking contest and display are held afterwards, showcasing various kinds of sticky rice for visitors from all over the country to enjoy. According to Bui Thi Lan Phuong, deputy chairwoman of the People's Committee of Tay Ho, the district has created favourable conditions to support the development of Phu Thuong Village in recent years with the aim to preserve the traditional craft and improve local livelihood. The village was officially recognized by the city's People's Committee as the traditional sticky rice village on December 30, 2016. Phu Thuong sticky rice was selected as one of the 12 speciality dishes served at the Media Centre during the US-North Korea Summit in Ha Noi in 2018. The district has also focused on upgrading the infrastructure of the village. In the near future, Phu Thuong sticky rice will not only be a famous culinary delight enjoyed throughout the country, but the village will also become an attractive destination for visitors from both within and outside the country. This will contribute to improving the material and spiritual lives of the local residents," Phuong said. Additionally, it will actively promote the image of Tay Ho District, its captivating tourist destinations, traditional festivals, intangible cultural heritage, and culinary cultural products." VNS HA NOI Vietnamese contestants have triumphed over 1,000 counterparts from around the world to win five top prizes of the 18th ZhongSin International Music Competition 2024. After the regional round held in Viet Nam in November 2023, the Organising Committee identified 31 eligible contestants to enter the final round of the international music competition, which recently took place over five days in Singapore. The Vietnamese contestants are students from both professional and non-professional art training institutions such as the Vietnam National Academy of Music, HCM City Conservatory of Music, CIS International School - HCM City, Alexandre Yersin French High School Ha Noi and Dewey School system Ha Noi, among others. The final artistic council of the competition comprised 532 professors, lecturers and experts from renowned art schools, leading music training institutions, as well as professional artists from around the world. The closing and award ceremony of the competition were held at the Star Performing Arts Centre in Singapore, with the participation of nearly 4,000 parents and contestants. Pianist Nguyen Le Thuyen Ha, Head of the Organising Committee for the preliminary round in Viet Nam of this music competition, is the first Vietnamese artist to appear on the Final Round judging panel in Singapore. According to her, competing against over 1,000 contestants from various countries worldwide, the Vietnamese contestants achieved remarkable results, bringing honour and pride to Viet Nam on the international artistic stage. Vietnamese contestants won three first prizes in the Amateur category across different age groups, Piano discipline, and two first prizes in the discipline of vocal music and traditional musical instrument - bamboo flute. They also secured one second prize in the Open category in the Composition discipline; 10 second prizes in the Amateur category across different age groups, in the disciplines of Piano, Vocal Music, Jazz Drum, and Violin; as well as 13 third prizes in the Amateur category across different age groups, in the discipline of Piano. In addition, the Vietnamese delegation also achieved a Top 5 ranking in the Open category in the discipline of Piano; and one Best Performance Award in the Professional category, in the discipline of Vocal Music. This years event is the first time a traditional Vietnamese musical instrument, the H'mong flute, has appeared. Ly Minh Cuong, a young man from the northern province of Ha Giang, won the first prize in the Traditional Musical Instrument category. "The final round of the ZhongSin International Music Competition 2024 held in Singapore was organised professionally. International contestants demonstrated meticulousness in their attire and performances. For the first time, the Vietnamese delegation included a traditional Vietnamese musical instrument in the competition and achieved the highest result, Ha said. In my role as the head of the delegation, I am proud to see Vietnamese contestants have the opportunity to shine on the international artistic stage and be recognised." The first Zhongsin International Music Competition was held in Singapore back in 2007. The competition aims to be one of the most professional, all-encompassing international music competitions of its kind. Upon its founding, this competition received tremendous support from the National Arts Council of Singapore and the Singapore Chinese Music Association. The contest includes preliminary and final rounds, with the preliminary qualifiers having over 50,000 entrants, while 1,000 finalists attend the competition every year. Competitors come from different countries around the world and compete against each other in categories such as piano, voice, strings, guitar, winds, electronic organ, accordion, percussion and folk instruments. VNS By Le Huong At first sight, with their humble appearance, Prof. Jurgen W. Simon and his wife may look like a retired couple spending their leisure time in Viet Nam. Only few people know that Prof. Simon has actively helped train law scholars in Ha Noi Law University, where he has been working as a lecturer since 2015. Before that, in 1991, Prof. Simon had worked with Viet Nams Ministry of Justice. As soon as the German Law Centre was established at the university, Prof. Simon was invited to give lessons there on insurance law, the new generation of Free Trade Agreements and investment law in Viet Nam, public law and civil law, and intellectual property law. Prof. Simon said he has had good relationships with his students, such as Nguyen Minh Nhat, who has co-written some academic papers with him, such as Viet Nam's approach to Covid-19 treatment. Nhat was trained as a lawyer and then went to Germany and worked for a law firm specialising in intellectual property, earning a very good income. Prof. Simon is also close with his student Linh Chi, with whom he published, "Legal aspects of nanotechnology vs. Covid-19" and "Overview of gestational surrogacy in Viet Nam" in a global journal and other articles in Germany. I got along well with the two of them, but also with other students who showed great interest in the lessons and whom I occasionally invited for dinner, he said. I am still in contact with some of them. He had been a tenured full professor of Civil Law, Economic Law and Environmental Law at Leuphana University in Lower-Saxony, Germany. He has published about 250 books and articles in ten languages including Vietnamese. Getting things in return Simon has recently been given the Honourable Medal For the Cause of Vietnamese Justice from the Minister of Justice at a solemn ceremony in the Embassy of Viet Nam in Berlin as the first German Professor making a significant contribution to the co-operation between the justice sectors of the two countries and to justice training in Viet Nam. I was very delighted to receive the medal from the Minister of Justice, he said. I felt very honoured to have it. It is highly appreciated that Viet Nam honoured me for having done something for the country. Simon said his life in Ha Noi was wonderful. I felt like I was at home here, he said. First, I had my intensive life at the HLU. Then, I did a lot of cultural events in Ha Noi with my wife and had some flights to other cities in Viet Nam. Simon especially likes Hoan Kiem Lake and its surroundings. The streets with their trees are marvelous, he said. But the traffic is now very heavy. He said in 1991, he could easily cross the road amid many wonderful bikes at that time. Simon said local customs are very different from Germany. For example, weddings and funerals are totally different, he said. In Vietnamese houses, the first floors are always for the motorbikes or cars and the families work there, they eat, watch TV or sing songs. Wonderful, I like it very much. Simon said he often starts everyday with pho ga (chicken noodle). Then, he works with his students and finally he goes home to eat his dinner. We had a lot of neighbours and friends, also from the university, he said. And then we travelled all over Viet Nam, as far as Phu Quoc, HCM City, Hue, Sa Pa, Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay. Experiencing history In 1991, he was asked to visit Viet Nam and teach there. Since this time, Viet Nam has not left my heart, until today, he said. He admitted that his life experiences have been significantly shaped by Viet Nam's different culture and customs. I experienced the history of Viet Nam, but also its modern habits, he said. Prof. Simon is fond of Vietnamese painting and poetry, from Nguyen Du with his masterpiece "The Tale Kieu", to Ho Xuan Huong and Bao Ngoc. - VNS HCM CITY International medical cooperation in HCM City has generated positive outcomes in recent years, contributing to improving the quality of medical services, protection, and care of people's health. Cooperation among countries can strengthen prevention and treatment capacity, patient treatment and care, and hospital management. Cooperation with French partners is one of the highlights of the citys international medical cooperation. During the 50 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations, the French Cooperation Agency has supported training in postgraduate programmes lectured by French and Vietnamese professors and doctors who are lecturers at medical universities in Ha Noi, HCM City, Hue and Hai Phong. In addition to providing medical treatment, a team of French and Vietnamese doctors and nurses at the French Medical Centre in HCM City exchange and share experiences in various fields, especially in training human resources and fostering skilled doctors and nurses. Emmanuelle Pavillon-Grosser, French Consul General to HCM City, said more than 3,000 Vietnamese doctors and nurses have been sent to French hospitals for training and they are taking charge of management in universities and hospitals in Viet Nam. More and more young French people are studying in Viet Nam, she said. The United States is also one of the countries with many important medical cooperation projects with HCM City. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has coordinated with Vietnamese medical workers to save the lives of many patients over the past 25 years by providing prevention and treatment services for people living with HIV. From 2013, the Vietnamese-German Faculty of Medicine at the HCM City-based Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine has trained medical students according to international standards. This training programme is the first of its kind to train Vietnamese medical doctors following international standards and the first graduates can continue pursuing their postgraduate programmes while simultaneously practising medicine in Germany. The university is also the first unit in Viet Nam to have a training programme whose quality is equivalent to the European level. Nguyen Thanh Hiep, the universitys principal, said so far 70 excellent doctors have graduated from the school, and 349 other students have enrolled in this joint training programme. They will be the doctors of the golden generation of medicine in the coming time, he said. The training programme is a breakthrough in the field of training medical workers with high quality, he said. Tang Chi Thuong, director of the citys Department of Health, said the city aims to become a healthcare centre in the ASEAN region. It is necessary to promote cooperation with medically advanced countries to help increase the health sectors medical examination and treatment capacity, he said. That not only meets Vietnamese patients rising demand but also attracts foreign patients, contributing to raising the position of Vietnamese healthcare, he said. VNS HCM CITY Coastal localities in the southern region have been stepping up measures to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and help persuade the European Commission (EC) to lift the yellow card warning that has affected seafood imports from Viet Nam into the EU market. Following the latest trip in October 2023, an EC delegation is scheduled to visit Viet Nam for another inspection this April. Given this, the national steering committee for IUU fishing combat has set certain requirements for relevant parties so as to have the EC yellow card warning lifted after the coming inspection. Kien Giang is home to the largest fleet of fishing vessels in the Mekong Delta while its coastal waters attract a large number of vessels from other Vietnamese localities. The province has licensed more than 7,000 fishing vessels. Among them, over 3,600 vehicles that are 15 metres long and over, have been licensed and equipped with vessel monitoring systems (VMS), reported its Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Deputy Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Le Quoc Anh said fighting IUU fishing is meant to thoroughly deal with violations in foreign waters. Under the leadership of the provincial Party Committee and Peoples Committee, the local steering committee has boosted communications and education, and applied strict punishments to discourage illegal fishing. Under a directive of the Kien Giang Province Peoples Committee, local authorities are boosting the settlement of violating vessels with a view to controlling unverified, unregistered, and unlicensed boats by April. Assistance will also be given to the fishermen facing livelihood difficulties in the time ahead, he continued. Authorities have enhanced examination of vessels arriving at and departing from local fishery ports, as well as patrols at sea and settlement of violations, the official added. Anh elaborated that departments and sectors have worked with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the border guard force, and Naval Squadron 28 to deal with 472 violations involving 547 vessels with fines of over VN13 billion (US$529,800). They have also fined vessels more than VN21 billion for breaking rules on VMS installation. Other southern provinces like Ca Mau, Bac Lieu, Ben Tre, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau have also been working hard to help with the yellow card removal. Pham Thi Na, deputy director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, said her province has exerted efforts to fight illegal fishing. As a result, the number of violation cases has gradually decreased, and the vessels losing VMS signals for over 10 days fell by 65 per cent in 2023 compared to the previous year. Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Nguyen Van Tho noted that the administration has ordered the agriculture department give timely notifications so that district-level authorities can work with vessel owners to handle outstanding problems. They have also asked law enforcement forces at sea to hold patrols and deal with violating vessels, and update data about all local fishing vessels on the national fisheries database (VNFishbase). Na said Ba Ria-Vung Tau has installed VMS on 96.4 per cent of local fishing vessels, arranged stations to monitor activities of those vehicles around the clock, and informed other coastal localities nationwide about the vessels of Ba Ria-Vung Tau that do not have VMS and not operate in the provinces waters. Sen. Lt. Col. Nguyen Hung Son, chief commander of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Border Guard, said its force will push ahead with various measures, including increasing communications among fishermen and coordinating with other units to handle violations. The EC issued a yellow card warning for Viet Nam in this regard in 2017. It can be followed by a "green card" if the problem is resolved or a "red card" if it is not. A red card may lead to a complete ban on aquatic exports to the EU. VNS HA NOI Many technology talents have been returning to Viet Nam after studying abroad, helping fuel not only domestic electronics supply chains but also the fast-growing digital economy. Nikkei Asia reported that Vietnam has long sent far more students overseas than its neighbours, and these students gain skills and networks that prove valuable upon return. More than two decades of study-abroad programmes is bearing fruit. Early cohorts have had time to graduate and go to work often in foreign countries and now bring that experience to bear in Viet Nam at a mature point in their careers. During that time, the country has worked to become a more attractive destination. High-tech goods as a share of exports, for example, hit 42% in 2020, up from 13% in 2010, the Japan-based news magazine wrote. UNESCO data show that Viet Nam tops Southeast Asian countries in the number of overseas students, followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Meanwhile, it has ranked among the top 10 sources of international students in the US for more than a decade. The number of Vietnamese students at US universities and colleges increased 5.7% to 21,900 in the 2022 - 2023 school year. Vietnam remains in the fifth place among the top sources of international students in the North American nation. Science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), along with business/administration are still the programmes Vietnamese students enroll in most, respectively at 47.6% and 24.7%, according to the USs Open Doors Report 2023 of the Institute of International Education (IIE). The Vietnam Education Foundation (VEF), launched in the US by its Congress, has granted hundreds of scholarships to Vietnamese students and scholars. Nikkei Asia cited an investor and Stanford alum as saying that the fund is a key example of investments now paying off as alumni have come of age and established themselves in Viet Nam's economy. VEF scholars have gone on to found startups such as the machine-learning vendor Palexy and Zalo, which is more popular in Vietnam than Facebook. More generally, many graduates of Harvard and Cambridge have come home to lead all manner of tech companies, including Tap Tap a rewards platform, Uber Vietnam and the logistics startup Abivin. However, there remain a lot of challenges to the workforce and the economy. In several ways, performance has not kept up with potential. Besides, suppliers for Apple say they can't find enough engineers. The country has yet to generate a startup that, like Indonesia's Gojek or Singapore's Shopee, truly can take its brand across borders, Nikkei Asia reported. VNA/VNS HA NOI Ha Noi on February 20 announced the 2023 Public Administration Reform (PAR) Index of its departments, department-level agencies, and Peoples Committees of districts and Son Tay township, with the Department of Home Affairs and ong a district taking the lead. Specifically, the 2023 PAR Index of departments and department-level agencies averaged at 88.4%, up 2.7% against the previous year. With 94%, the Department of Home Affairs ranked first, followed by the Department of Finance (93.89%) and the Department of Science and Technology (93%). The city Inspectorate reported the lowest index, at 63.9%. Meanwhile, the average index of localities was 94%, up 1.26% year-on-year. Dong Da district came first with 96.3%, followed by Nam Tu Liem and Hoan Kiem, both 95.7%, and Cau Giay (95.22%). Phu Xuyen district had the lowest index, at 91.61%. VNA/VNS HCMC Former Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long and Phan Quoc Viet, the general director of Viet A Technology Corporation, have filed appeals against their initial imprisonment sentences related to their involvement in the Viet A test kit price gouging case. Since the Ha Noi Peoples Court issued sentences against 38 defendants in the case over a month ago, it has received appeals from 12 individuals. Long and Viet are seeking reductions in their penalties, while Vu inh Hiep, Viet A's deputy general director, has requested a reconsideration of his case. Other defendants, including Trinh Thanh Hung, former deputy head of the Department of Science and Technology; Pham Duy Tuyen, former director of the Center for Disease Control in Hai Duong Province; Nguyen Nam Lien, former head of the health ministrys Financial Planning Department; Tran Thi Hong, a Viet A employee; and Le Thi Hong Xuyen, a former employee of Binh Duong CDC, are also seeking mitigations of their sentences. The Ha Noi court handed down sentences against 38 defendants in the Viet A case on January 12. Nguyen Thanh Long received an 18-year jail sentence for accepting bribes, while Phan Quoc Viet was sentenced to 29 years behind bars for bribery and violating bidding regulations. Vu inh Hiep was sentenced to 15 years in prison for violating bidding regulations and bribery, while Trinh Thanh Hung received a 14-year prison term for bribery. Other defendants faced sentences for various charges, including bribery, abuse of authority, violating bidding regulations, and leveraging influence for personal gain. VNS LAO CAI A wildfire that burned approximately 30 hectares of forestland in Hoang Lien Son National Park in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai has been brought under control, the provincial authorities said on Wednesday afternoon. The authorities stated that currently, there are only a few small scattered fire points remaining. According to preliminary statistics, about 30 hectares have been damaged, including four hectares of replanted forest and the remaining 26 hectares of primarily natural forest with low reserves, shrubs, grasses, and ground cover vegetation. The largest and most challenging fire point was in the Na Hang area towards the Den Thang Village in Ta Van Commune, as it was located on a steep rocky mountain slope with virtually vertical incline, and a deep ravine below, consisting entirely of shrubs, regenerating trees, and dense ground cover vegetation, making it inaccessible for direct firefighting. Throughout the night of Tuesday to the early morning of Wednesday, the fire was still smouldering on the high rocky mountain slopes in the Den Thang Village area a location posing a risk of spreading into the core forest area of Hoang Lien Son National Park. Firefighting forces from the province and Sa Pa Town had established firebreaks around the fire area and deployed personnel to stand guard and monitor the fire throughout the night, reporting to the provincial command every hour to ensure the fire did not spread into the core area of Hoang Lien Son National Park. Early on Wednesday morning, the firefighting forces divided into two teams to extinguish the fire points. Team 1, led by Colonel Nguyen Van o, deputy chief of staff of the Provincial Military Command, and Nguyen Quang Vinh, deputy director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, moved towards the Den Thang Village to address the main fire point. Team 2, led by Forest Protection Teams from Ban Ho and Ta Van communes, moved along the route from the Seo My Ty kindergarten to re-treat the smouldering tree stumps and remaining ashes. At 9 am on the same day, the authorities had controlled the last fire point in Hoang Lien Son National Park. Previously, on Tuesday evening, two out of three major fire points in the park had been controlled, including the fire point towards the residential area of Seo Mi Ty village in Ta Van Commune and the fire point in the Na Hang area towards the Hang and San 1 villages in Hoang Lien Commune. According to Chairman of the People's Committee of Sa Pa town To Ngoc Lien, the cause of the fire remains unidentified, and the loss has not been assessed yet. VNS The acquisition will complement ABBs Electrification Service offering, bringing significant additional expertise to customers in the areas of predictive, preventive and corrective maintenance, electrical safety, renewables, and asset management advisory services. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and expected to close in the third quarter of this year, with financial terms yet to be disclosed. SEAM Group offers a suite of services including strategic advisory, custom training, advanced technology, and data management solutions to help clients improve safety and operational performance by securing asset uptime and improving productivity. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of this year, and financial terms are yet to be disclosed. The company has nearly 250 employees and supports more than one million energised assets for over 800 active clients operating across 50 US states, as well as in the Americas, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Asia. With its presence at around 3,000 customer sites and a strong foothold in fast-growing segments such as commercial buildings, data centres, healthcare, manufacturing and renewables, including EV charging infrastructure, SEAM Group is expected to complement ABBs low- and medium-voltage services where reliable and available power is critical. For many industries, every minute of production time counts. Proactive asset management is now a priority for industrial companies to guarantee peak performance of electrical systems and overall operational efficiency, safety and sustainability, said Stuart Thompson, division president at ABB Electrification Service. This acquisition is part of our ongoing strategy to create a new force in electrification service, broadening our offering and footprint in the United States. By sharpening our approach in one of our key markets, we will be able to offer customers complete asset lifecycle management services, while expanding our field service coverage across North America. Colin Duncan, CEO of SEAM Group, said, The synergies between SEAM Group and ABB are clear. From our shared values of customer focus, collaboration and enabling a more sustainable future, to our complementary portfolios, together we will deliver new levels of operational performance while supporting companies in their energy transition. We look forward to becoming part of ABB and the opportunity to bring the best of SEAM Group and ABB to our customers. One Capital Hospitality to acquire stake in Tin Phat Ice cream One Capital Hospitality (OCH), the proprietor of the renowned Trang Tien ice cream brand, approved a decision to acquire nearly 149,800 shares at VND100,000 VND ($4.22) per share from Tin Phat Ice cream on December 4. This transaction is expected to be completed this year or next, NIC runs on ABB smart building tech The new National Innovation Centre (NIC) in Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, Hanoi is playing a key role in connecting the countrys domestic technology ecosystem with global networks, helping accelerate the countrys position as a regional innovation destination. Salumeh Companieh, chief information and data officer, Cushman & Wakefield said that the company was committed to seamlessly integrating its people with the right technology and processes to enhance service offerings to the clients. Todays launch of the use of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Copilot for Microsoft 365 at Cushman & Wakefield demonstrates our ability to pair robust technologies with market intelligence and expertise, said Companieh. Cushman & Wakefield has been focused on aligning business, data, and operations since 2018. Results to date range from an 80 per cent material reduction in operational cycle time, to a reduction of client supply chain costs via proprietary supply chain network optimisation capabilities. With this next generation of AI, we have a unique opportunity to accelerate innovation across commercial real estate. Were collaborating with Cushman & Wakefield to bring together AI advances that benefit from Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Copilot for Microsoft 365 to empower the firms professionals with the latest AI-powered tools, said Laura Craig, general manager, Data and AI, Microsoft. Azure OpenAI Service is a cloud-based generative AI solution that offers customers a range of capabilities, including access to cutting-edge AI models, backed by the power of Azure. With Azure OpenAI Service, Cushman & Wakefield can benefit from the power of cloud computing, data analytics, and AI to deliver innovative solutions for its clients and stakeholders. The platform enables developers to build, deploy, and manage AI solutions for various scenarios and domains. Some of the features of Azure OpenAI Service include machine learning, cognitive services, bot framework, computer vision, natural language processing, speech recognition, and more. Microsoft Technology Centres are facilities that provide immersive experiences in over 50 locations around the world. Their architects collaborate with partners in academia, industry, and government to advance state-of-the-art AI. The Microsoft Technology Centre is providing Cushman & Wakefield with access to cutting-edge research, tools, and the firm's top specialists to develop powerful and adaptable applications. It also provides insight into various areas that require AI solutions, with learning and improvement through feedback and advice. Meanwhile, Copilot for Microsoft 365 brings the power of next-generation AI, grounded in the user and companys data, to Microsofts workplace productivity tools like Teams, Outlook, and Word. It works alongside users to provide suggestions and summaries, while generating, analysing, and exploring data in documents, presentations, spreadsheets, notes, chats, email, meetings, and more. Ensuring the safety and security of interactions with Generative AI is a crucial value driver for Cushman & Wakefield. Copilot for Microsoft 365 offers a high level of security as the firm leverages GPT models, providing clients with confidence that their data will not be exposed nor leave the companys ecosystem. Get ready for a massive AI shift There is no doubt 2023 was the year of AI. We are no longer just talking about AI innovation in the abstract, we are instead seeing real product-making, deployment, and productivity gains. And as 2023 has ended, I am proud to see how Microsoft empowers individuals and organisations in Vietnam by applying AI to make a real difference in every aspect of our daily life. Microsoft says to invest 3.2 bn euros in AI in Germany Microsoft said Thursday it would invest 3.2 billion euros ($3.4 billion) in Germany through 2025, with the bulk going to expand the tech giant's efforts in artificial intelligence. Dense fog forces flights at Vinh airport to delay, reroute, Illustrative image (Source: BNEWS/VNA) Nghe An Bad weather conditions with dense fog have forced many flights from/to Vinh International Airport in the central province of Nghe An to change their routes on February 19-20. Nghiem Manh Tuan, Director of the airport, said that from February 19 morning to February 20 morning, seven flights have had to change their routes, affecting 1,300 passengers. Of this, five flights were guided to land at Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang city, while the remaining two had to land at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Tuan said that right after the weather improves, relevant agencies will resume the operation of flights at the airport. Earlier on February 5, dense fog and unsafe conditions also caused the cancellation of 16 flights and the rerouting of four others at Vinh International Airport. Nghe An woos five foreign-led projects worth $311 million At a conference on December 13 to announce Nghe An province's planning for the period towards 2030, six new projects in Southeast Nghe An Economic Zone worth a combined $390 million were granted investment policy decisions and registration certificates. The decision included five foreign-invested projects valued at $311 million. In 2024, Vietnam's GDP growth rate is expected to reach 6-6.5%, thanks to stable foreign direct investment (FDI) and the Governments efforts to address real estate challenges, increase public investment, and implement growth stimulation policies in a timely manner. (Photo: VNA) HCM City Experts from top real estate consulting companies in Vietnam have expressed optimism about development prospects of the real estate market, particularly regarding the office and industrial segments. According to Savills Vietnam, despite numerous challenges, the interest of foreign investors in the Vietnamese market in general and real estate in particular continues to expand. Fitch Ratings recently upgraded the countrys long-term national credit rating from BB to BB , with a "stable" outlook. In 2024, Vietnam's GDP growth rate is expected to reach 6-6.5 per cent, thanks to stable foreign direct investment (FDI) and the Governments efforts to address real estate challenges, increase public investment, and implement growth stimulation policies in a timely manner. About 85 per cent of the rapidly growing companies in Vietnam are committed to the environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) standard, creating an increase in demand for green-standard office space in the market. By 2026, Ho Chi Minh City is expected to provide 300,000 more square meters of new Grade A office space, such as The Nexus project or VP Bank Saigon Tower. Moreover, over 80% of the future Grade A and Grade B office supply in the southern economic hub will meet green standards. Meanwhile, between now and 2026, Hanoi will see 15 new projects offering over 389,770 square meters of working space, with Grade A offices expected to account for 86 per cent of the future supply. Green space is projected to constitute 18 per cent of the future office floor area in the capital. In recent times, many legal regulations have been passed, such as the amended real estate business law, amended housing law, and amended land law. The head of the Hanoi and Danang offices at Savills Vietnam, Matthew Powell, described the passage of these laws as a positive signal for investment in the real estate market this year, boosting investor confidence. Managing Director at Knight Frank Vietnam Alex Crane also called the amended land law a step forward for the market in the long term that contributes to the improvement of related legal regulations. Highlighting the bright future prospects of the industrial real estate, Crane noted that the supply of ready-built factory space for lease has tripled since 2016. Players display positivity for real estate A range of amendments to laws on housing, real estate, and land is expected to make the market more stable. Reforms essential for industrial M&As The industrial property market in 2024 in terms of mergers and acquisitions faces optimism this year, with new rules likely to boost progress. Brand recognition enhancements Imexpharm Pharmaceutical JSC has recently opened a representative office in Ho Chi Minh City, signifying an important growth milestone and increasing its brand recognition in major cities to serve and care for customers, partners, and investors. Located on the 24th floor of Flemington Tower at 184 Le Dai Hanh street in District 11, the representative office boasts a trendy and luxurious open modern space. It is equipped with modern IT systems and work rooms allowing employees to interact better and create a dynamic and cohesive working environment. Imexpharm's Board of Directors hosted a ceremony to officially open the new office Tran Thi Dao, general director of Imexpharm, said, "As a long-term partner with a history of attachment and development over the past 45 years in the Mekong Deltas Dong Thap province, Imexpharm is proud to have become a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer in Vietnam. With a strategy of developing and expanding its network, Imexpharm officially opened the Ho Chi Minh City office to increase its brand recognition in major cities and to better serve customers, partners, and investors." The office opening is an important milestone marking our transition to a new growth cycle after a period of in-depth investment in modern production technologies, Dao said. Despite the ongoing challenges, we are steadfast in our belief about the steady growth of Vietnams economy. This is a driving force helping us believe more in the sustainable development journey that the company has outlined." Tran Thi Dao, general director of Imexpharm, delivered a speech during the inauguration ceremony of the company's new representative office in Ho Chi Minh City Imexpharms new Ho Chi Minh City office is expected to foster an environment that encourages creativity and the exchange of ideas between employees, while strengthening relationships with external partners and businesses to promote the companys growth momentum. In 2023, Imexpharm maintained double-digit growth for the year, with total gross revenue reaching VND2.11 trillion ($86.34 million) for approximately 26 per cent growth compared to the overall market average of 8 per cent. New growth cycle awaits Imexpharm is ranked Number 1 in antibiotics in Vietnam. It currently owns four factory clusters, including three EU-GMP clusters with eleven production lines that meet EU-GMP standards. This gives Imexpharm the largest such cluster and largest EU-GMP chain. Moreover, Imexpharm registered eleven more EU MAs (European Product Registration Numbers) for six products in 2023, including Ampicillin / Sulbactam, which are difficult to produce and distribute. This brings the total number of EU MAs to 27 for eleven products. Regarding the 2024 plan, Imexpharm will continue to invest in and implement initiatives to boost the productivity of existing lines and factories. It is also researching and evaluating the feasibility of a number of investment projects in new factories and lines to meet growing domestic and foreign needs. Imexpharm will expand its network to the northern region to help provide high-quality healthcare products at reasonable cost to hospitals, pharmacies, and people, Dao said. Not only meeting domestic healthcare demand, Imexpharm has also set a goal of setting foot in new markets of potential. At the beginning of 2024, we successfully exported our first shipment of antibiotics to Mongolia by air. Imexpharm has built a wide network throughout Vietnam from the north to the south, with 20 sales branches. There are two branch offices in Ho Chi Minh City and two warehouses in the southern city and Dong Thap province. Operating a modern representative office affirms the management philosophy of Imexpharm, that people are the source of all success. This has been the driving force helping the company rise from a small factory in Dong Thap to continuous achievements since its model transformation began in 2001. Imexpharm currently has a team of human resources of more than a thousand people. Its stable growth has been attributed to an excellent management system, and this has been recognised by numerous awards, such as a top 50 Vietnamese enterprise for attractive recruitment, top 5 excellent Board of Directors, and a top 5 company with the best working environment in Vietnam in the pharmaceutical industry, especially for medium-sized enterprises producing medical equipment and supplying healthcare services. The general director believes Imexpharm's achievements are the result of a long process of upgrading its working environment by harmoniously combining cultural identity and international management standards with people as the core element. With the expansion of sales branches around the country, Imexpharm is also actively promoting personnel training and community activities. Notably, over the years, it has been recognised for many initiatives to encourage health check-ups and provide medicine for people living in difficult circumstances nationwide. This emphasises its dedication to having a positive impact on the modern healthcare industry as well as Vietnamese society. Imexpharm honoured as top 5 company with best working environment in Vietnam Imexpharm Pharmaceutical JSC has been named in the top 5 companies with the best working environment in Vietnam for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and healthcare companies in the medium-sized enterprise category. Imexpharm clinches top honours in corporate annual reporting Imexpharm, outstripping its 2023 financial targets, underscores its ascent with top honours in corporate governance, affirming its stature in Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector. According to Decision No.332, issued by the Haiphong Peoples Committee on February 1, KinderWorld Vietnam has been recognised as the legal winner of the land auction for a multilevel school site. The auction was organised by Haiphong city and Le Chan district authorities and marks KinderWorld Vietnam's first project in Vietnam's third-largest city. KinderWorld delegates at the auction in Haiphong on January 12 The site was acquired with a 50-year land lease agreement of VND9.15 billion ($373,120) per annum, reflecting the competitive nature of the auction for such a prime location. Upon completion, the school will offer educational programmes from preschool to high school, with an expected capacity of 1,500 students. It will be one of KinderWorld's flagship international school campuses in Vietnam, featuring a smart campus with world-class facilities catered for a future-ready learning environment. Ricky Tan, chairman of KinderWorld International Group met with Le Tien Chau, party secretary of Haiphong in July last year to propose potential education investments in the city. Notable attendees at this meeting included Le Khac Nam, vice chairman of the Haiphong Peoples Committee, and various other directors and representatives from different departments and agencies. Le Tien Chau, Secretary of Haiphong Party Committee, met with KinderWorld Vietnam in July 2023 Following that meeting, an MoU was signed between KinderWorld and Haiphong authorities, highlighting the groups vision to develop up to four international school campuses, a comprehensive vocational training centre, and an outdoor education and ecotourism site in the city. Two meaningful decades for KinderWorld across Vietnam As it marks 20 years of operations in Vietnam, Singaporean education group KinderWorld has contributed to set up a new level for international education in the country. KinderWorld the essence of Singaporean education Developed as one of the worlds most notable hubs for trade, finance, and education, Singapore through the state-of-the-art performance of KinderWorld International Group has demonstrated its prestige in Vietnam and beyond. Malaysia is striving to become an EV manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia. (Illustrative source: Reuters/VNA) Hanoi - Malaysia aims to attract more electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers as it is striving to establish itself as an EV manufacturing hub for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), an official has said. Addressing an event of the automotive industry in Kuala Lumpur on February 20, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz highlighted favourable conditions making his country highly conducive to support multinationals' regional hub ambitions. Apart from its strategic location, good infrastructure, and rule of law, the country also has a highly-established electrical and electronics industry which has been reliably feeding other industries like aerospace, renewable energy and EVs, he noted. The official added that the regional EV market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 33% from around 500 million USD in 2021 to 2.7 billion USD by 2027. Malaysia becomes most visited country in Southeast Asia As of mid-November, Malaysia had welcomed 26 million international arrivals, making it the most popular destination in Southeast Asia this year. Malaysia floods force over 9,000 to evacuate As of December 25, over 9,900 people in Malaysia had been evacuated due to flooding following prolonged rains. RoK's E1 and Vietnam's Venus Gas plan to build an LPG terminal in Bac Tien Phong industrial complex in Quang Ninh (Photo:e1.co.kr) Seoul E1, an importer and distributor of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) under the Republic of Koreas LS Group. announced on February 21 that it has signed a joint contract with Venus Gas, the largest LPG importer in northern Vietnam, to build an LPG terminal in Bac Tien Phong industrial complex in Vietnam's northern coastal province of Quang Ninh. The facility will have a capacity of 50,000 tonnes of propane and 30,000 tonnes of butane. Construction on the project is expected to kick off in the first half of this year for the warehouse to be put into operate commercially in 2025. E1 plans to supply more than 1 million tonnes of LPG annually to the Vietnamese market. Previously, the Korean company bought 50% stake of Yen Hung Petrochemical Joint Venture in September 2022 to prepare for the construction of the Bac Tien Phong LPG gas storage facility. E1 has also announced a decision to grant a new debt guarantee worth about 256.7 billion KRW (over 192.3 million USD) to Yen Hung Petrochemical Joint Stock Company. This equates to 16.99% of equity. Debt guarantee facilitates the raising of capital by allowing the parent company to assist when the subsidiary encounters difficulties in repaying debts. Recently, the Vietnamese government has announced plans to expand crude oil and petroleum product storage capacity nationwide to stabilise commercial oil infrastructure. This is expected to increase the demand for LPG imports. An executive from E1 said that the Southeast Asia region has a huge demand for LPG but it lacks large-scale storage terminals. Therefore, E1 will apply its expertise and know-how accumulated in its four decades of experience to carry out this project. Vietnam to expand petroleum stockpiles to 75-80 days of net imports Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has said the $11.5 billion investment capital needed to establish a petroleum reserve infrastructure system by 2030 will see the majority of the funding come from outside the federal budget. Bae Seung Jun, general director of Shinhan Life Vietnam, shares the company's direction and strategy in 2024 The service, known as FC Channel, is located in Ho Chi Minh City's CII Tower, a professional workspace for personal insurance agents. Additionally, it serves as a customer service centre in Ho Chi Minh City, directly catering to customers from the southern region. Since entering the Vietnamese market, Shinhan Life has consistently expanded its business activities with a diverse product portfolio and distribution channels, focusing on specific customer segments. A representative of Shinhan Life Vietnam receives the flag of strength and spirit from Shinhan Life Korea Bae Seung Jun, general director of Shinhan Life Vietnam, shared his thoughts on the occasion. We firmly believe that the life insurance market will soon recover and continue to thrive. FC Channel is an opportunity for us to mark a new phase of growth. Accordingly, Shinhan Life will focus on quality rather than quantity, aiming to recruit and train a professional and well-grounded team. Shinhan Life hopes that by enhancing the FC Channel alongside existing distribution channels, the company will swiftly expand its business operations. I am confident that, only when thoroughly advised by a team of qualified financial consultants and with a clear understanding of insurance products, can customers feel secure with the most suitable financial solution. Therefore, the true value of life insurance will be promoted, instilling confidence in the humane values of insurance, he said. Shinhan Life has consistently endeavoured to differentiate itself in Vietnam by concentrating on its insurance product portfolio, operating model, and distribution channels. This expansion is expected to create numerous career opportunities for candidates and provide the best protection solutions for customers, contributing collectively to Vietnams socioeconomic development. Shinhan Life Insurance Vietnam Co., Ltd. has initial charter capital of VND2.32 trillion ($97.8 million), with its entire investment capital funded by Shinhan Life Insurance Corporation, Korea. The company provides products and services in life insurance, health insurance, and financial investment. Woori Bank Vietnam partners with Samsung Vina Insurance to offer property insurance services Woori Bank Vietnam and Samsung Vina Insurance have forged a strategic alliance to enhance property insurance operations, offering more options to new insurance services for corporate clients while strengthening Woori Bank's competitive position. Shinhan Life promotes sustainable development for future generation of Vietnam With the vision of Enhancing the Quality of Life through Innovation, over nearly two years of operation, Shinhan Life has been actively engaged in corporate social responsibility activities, working together to build a sustainable future for the next generation in Vietnam. Specifically, CPN Global Vietnam will engage in real estate management in Vietnam to develop future projects on behalf of Central Pattana. The Vietnamese subsidiary has registered capital of VND20 billion ($815,245) and is a limited liability company with one member, whereby issuing common shares is not required. CPN Global Co., Ltd. holds 100 per cent of CPN Global Vietnam's shares, and Chanavat Uahwatanasakul has been appointed director of the Vietnamese operation. Over the past 40 years, Central Pattana has evolved into Thailand's largest and most sophisticated developer of retail property. The company currently owns and manages 38 premium shopping centres, 10 office buildings, five hotels, and 28 residential buildings. With a total leasable area exceeding 2.3 million square metres, Central Pattana is undoubtedly the industry leader in Thailand, holding more than double the area of its closest competitor. Central Pattana's long-term strategy includes the development of its trademark shopping centres in well-identified locations, offering potentially high returns in Bangkok and other major cities throughout Thailand. Its next challenge is to move overseas, exporting its retail property expertise to neighbouring countries through the development of innovative world-class shopping centres in strategic markets. Central Pattana is owned by the billionaire Chirathivat family. Its parent company Central Group started operations in Vietnam in 2012, and the group has secured a strong foothold in the local market through its subsidiary Central Retail. Central Retail plans to invest $1.45 billion in Vietnam within the next five years from 2023 to 2027. The group said it is seeking to reach a sales target of $4.33 billion by 2027 and nearly double the number of its stores here to 600. Vietnam to contribute a quarter of Central Group susidiary's revenue In the next five years, Vietnam's contribution could grow to 25 per cent of the revenue of Central Retail, a Central Group subsidiary which has just conducted a successful $8.1 billion IPO. Central Group spends over $100 million on full takeover of Nguyen Kim In its latest financial statement, Thailand's Central Group has announced spending VND2.66 trillion ($115.65 million) to complete the acquisition of Nguyen Kim, after five years of holding a 49 per cent stake in the electronics retailer. Vietnam is becoming an increasingly well-known tourist destination, famous for its diverse attractions ranging from beaches and historical attractions to cultural destinations. The country aims to develop tourism into a key economic engine, targeting at least 18 million foreign and 130 million domestic tourists by 2025, and 35 million foreign and 160 million domestic tourists by 2030. The report pointed out that receipts from foreign and local visitors climbed nearly 8-fold over 2010 to 2019. In 2023, receipts amounted to VND678 trillion ($28 billion), just 10 per cent shy of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The tourism sectors economic share tripled to 10 per cent of GDP in 2019, and recovered to about 6.6 per cent of GDP in 2023 following the country's reopening. Hospitality and food and beverage (F&B) headcount (2.7 million) rose to 5.3 per cent of total employment in 2022 (vs. 3.5 per cent in 2010). But revenue per tourist remained relatively modest due to limited nightlife, shopping options and paid sightseeing activities. International visitors spent an average of $1,015 per trip pre-pandemic in 2019, lower than in Thailand ($1,562) and Singapore ($1,062). Vietnam's international arrival numbers have overtaken Indonesia and are closing in on Singapore, but are still far behind Malaysia and Thailand. Foreign visitors more than tripled from the previous year to 12.6 million in 2023, surpassing government targets. Tourist arrivals exceeded pre-pandemic levels in January 2024 for the first time. Hotel occupancy in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City performed better than coastal cities in the second half of 2023, partly due to oversupply in the latter. At 70 million, tourist arrivals were ahead of the Philippines in 2023 and broadly in line with the rest of ASEAN. The return of Chinese tourists to Vietnam in 2023 (30 per cent of 2019 levels) has been the second slowest in ASEAN. Korea has replaced China as the top tourist source. India became the 9th largest source of tourists in 2023, with arrivals more than doubling from pre-pandemic levels. Russia, which was among the top spenders, dropped out of the top 10. Domestic tourism has slowed as spending was impacted by the economic slowdown and soaring domestic airfares led to local tour package prices surpassing outbound tour prices to nearby countries. Buoyant arrivals during Tet suggest local demand could be recovering. In 2024, the Vietnamese government is targeting 17-18 million foreign visitors, 110 million domestic visitors, and VND840 trillion ($34.2 billion) in tourism revenue, about 11 per cent higher than in 2019. Maybank's analysts think 110 million domestic tourists will be achievable, as it represents only a modest year-on-year increase. However, domestic tourism faces competition from overseas destinations, elevated domestic airfares, and still-cautious consumer sentiment. Maybank's analysts project 16 million foreign tourists this year, which implies growth of about 27 per cent growth year-on-year and equates to 89 per cent of 2019 levels. Positives include easier visa policies, greater international awareness of local destinations, and a ramp-up in flight capacity. Citizens from 13 visa-exempt countries were allowed to stay 45 days (vs. 15 days before) from August 2023. That said, visa-free entry is granted to only 25 countries, lagging behind ASEAN peers. Visa waivers for China and India have yet to be granted, unlike Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. In addition, Vietnam is not a top choice for Chinese tourists, whilst its ability to attract return tourists from other countries is constrained by a lack of developed infrastructure, tourist-friendly services and environmental management. Moving forward, local authorities are seeking a shift towards premium tourism, aiming to draw high-spending and longer-staying tourists. This entails providing high-quality services, such as more 4 and 5-star hotels, high-end shopping malls, recreational zones and event venues. For instance, Koreas Lotte Duty Free signed an agreement with Modetour in January to expand its duty free stores in Vietnam. Sales at its outlets in the country surged 351 per cent year-on-year in 2023. Japans AEON Mall plans to open 20 more shopping centres nationwide in the coming years. A rising post-pandemic trend is music tourism, which entails visiting a location to attend a concert - and visiting tourist attractions as a by-product. Vietnam was host to several high-profile concerts in 2023, including BlackPink in July (Hanoi), Charlie Puth (Nha Trang) and Westlife in November (Ho Chi Minh City). Many famous Vietnamese artists choose tourist destinations like Dalat, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to hold concerts, where any scenic backdrop can be transformed into a stage. The focus will be on ramping up manpower training given the deficiency in hospitality personnel. Meanwhile, business travel will be on the rise, given an influx of foreign investment and companies relocating to Vietnam. Tourism is expected to make a breakthrough in 2024 Challenges need to be resolved to accelerate the full recovery process of tourism, and confidently compete with emerging markets in the region. Nguyen Trung Khanh, chairman of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, discussed with VIRs Tra My the growth drivers for the industry in 2024. Best places to visit in 2024 Through the eyes of hoteliers, there are various destinations in Vietnam you should not miss in 2024. FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) A Republican lawmaker on Tuesday promoted his ambitious plan to bolster early childhood education as a way to head off a looming crisis once pandemic-era federal aid dries up for the childcare sector. Kentucky state Sen. Danny Carroll pitched his legislation at a Senate committee meeting as lawmakers delved into an issue that he says carries short- and long-term implications. A lack of childcare keeps some parents from working, contributing to low workforce participation rates. Reinforcing early childhood education builds a strong foundation that contributes to student success later in life, Carroll said. We must take advantage of this crisis that were about to face and we must transform the way that we think about early childhood education and the meaning of this," Carroll told the committee. "Its not babysitting. Its not childcare. Its not daycare. Its education. The Senate Families and Children Committee took no vote Tuesday on the sweeping measure a week after Carroll unveiled the proposal. Carroll, who chairs the committee, said he hoped a committee vote could come next week. Much of the discussion, he said, revolves around the bill's price tag currently pegged at $300 million over the next two fiscal years. You look at the totality of this issue, it's worth the investment, Carroll told reporters after the meeting. Senators are currently reviewing the two-year state spending plan approved by the House and will eventually present their own version. The final budget details will be hashed out in a conference committee of House and Senate leaders. The GOP has supermajorities in both chambers. Republican state Sen. Julie Raque Adams said she was impressed by the bill's comprehensive approach, pointing to its potential impact on getting more Kentuckians into the workforce. You hear from every sector of society that they have workforce challenges, she said. And we're never going to fix those workforce challenges until we solve this critical piece of childcare. The bill comes amid uncertain times nationwide for childcare providers and parents. The $24 billion of pandemic aid that Congress passed in 2021 for childcare businesses is drying up. Republican state lawmakers across the country have responded by embracing plans to support child care. Still, the largest investments in child care have come from Democratic lawmakers. In New Mexico, the state is covering childcare for most children under 5 using a trust funded by oil and natural gas production. In Vermont, Democratic lawmakers overrode the GOP governors veto to pass a payroll tax hike to fund child care subsidies. Kentucky has lost about half of its childcare providers in the past decade and risks losing more once the federal aid evaporates, necessitating the need for the state to step in with help, Carroll said. For once, I want Kentucky to be the one that gets out in front and sets the example for this entire nation, he told the committee. And we have an opportunity to do that. Carrolls bill has drawn praise from advocates for business and children. His measure, dubbed the Horizons Act, would include state support for childcare centers and families struggling to afford childcare. It would create funds meant to help increase the availability of early childhood education services and to foster innovations in early childhood education. As part of the initiative, the state community and technical college system would offer an associate degree in early childhood education entrepreneurship, to prepare more people to operate childcare centers. Carroll's early childhood proposal stands in contrast to one championed by Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear. The governor has proposed providing preschool for every 4-year-old in Kentucky. His budget plan included $172 million each year of the two-year budget to accomplish that. The program would extend preschool education to an estimated 34,000 additional 4-year-olds, freeing up space for more younger children in childcare centers, he said. His proposals have made no headway in the GOP-dominated legislature. On Tuesday, state Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander, a key member of Beshear's administration, touted the governor's universal pre-K plan at the committee hearing while also praising lawmakers for focusing on the issue of early childhood education. Investing in these kids is exactly what we should be doing as a commonwealth, he said. The legislation is Senate Bill 203. MADISON, Wis. (AP) The Republican-controlled Wisconsin Senate voted Tuesday to reject four of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers' appointees, including a member of the state's natural resources policy board and a former lieutenant governor who was to serve on a hospital governing board. That brings to 13 the number of Evers appointees that the Senate has rejected, which has the effect of firing them. Evers immediately named replacements while slamming the Republican votes as petty, partisan politics. The Senate also sent Evers a massive tax cut package, while the Assembly passed a constitutional amendment that would curb the veto powers of Wisconsins governor, which are the broadest in the country. That proposal would ultimately need to be approved by voters statewide. The moves come as the Assembly was planning to finish its work for the session on Thursday, with the Senate wrapping up next month. Lawmakers will then quickly turn to campaigning for the fall election under new maps Evers signed into law on Monday. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos urged the Senate to pass a bill that would allow for absentee ballots to be processed the day before Election Day, a bipartisan measure that is languishing in the Senate. His comments came after Republican Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu said on WISN-TV that the measure was likely dead. I have no idea why senators would not want to solve the problem of these late-night ballot dumps, Vos said at a news conference. The Senate voted along party lines to reject the appointment of Todd Ambs to the states Natural Resources Board. Ambs was the only one of four Evers appointees rejected by a GOP-controlled Senate committee following a tense public hearing last year. All four appointees were forwarded by Evers after the Senate in September rejected four DNR board appointees. The Senate has yet to confirm any of Evers' appointees to the board. Ambs served as deputy secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources before retiring in December 2021. Ambs was questioned by GOP lawmakers at a December hearing about his online criticism of the Republican Party. Ambs said at that hearing that he would make no apologies for speaking out against former President Donald Trump. Republican Sen. Mary Felzkowski said members of the board needed to show that they could work with both Republicans and Democrats. Ambs rejected the notion that he cant work with Republicans, saying in a statement after the vote that he has spent more than four decades working with both parties on a variety of conservation issues. He accused Republicans of making a mockery of the confirmation process. I know how to work in a bipartisan manner, Ambs said. The majority party in the Wisconsin State Legislature does not. The Senate also rejected the appointment of former Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton and former state Rep. Sondy Pope, both Democrats, and Candice Owley to the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Authority Board. Democrats assailed the votes as unwarranted partisan attacks. Just don't do this, Democratic Sen. Mark Spreitzer said. Back off. The vote to reject Lawton was 19-13, with three Republicans joining all Democrats against it. The Senate voted 20-12 to reject Pope, with two Republicans joining all Democrats against. Owley was rejected on a party line vote. The Senate had previously rejected nine of Evers appointees since he took office in 2019. More than 180 of Evers appointees to lead state agencies and serve on a variety of boards and commissions have yet to be confirmed. The Senate gave final approval to a package of bills opposed by Democrats that would cut taxes by about $2 billion in the first year and $1.4 billion every year after that. Evers has not said whether he will sign the package, or veto it like he has other similar Republican-backed tax cut proposals. LeMahieu said Republicans were giving Evers another chance to sign meaningful tax relief to hardworking families in Wisconsin. The centerpiece of the package is a measure that would expand the state's second 4.4% income tax bracket so more income would be subject to a lower rate. Other measures would increase the income tax credit for married couples, expand the states child care tax credit and increase the amount of retirees income exempt from the state income tax. Meanwhile, the Assembly approved a Republican-authored constitutional amendment that would prohibit the governor from using his partial veto powers to create or increase taxes or fees. Wisconsin governors have the broadest partial veto power in the country. State laws allow them to strike almost any part of a budget bill. Evers last summer struck a hyphen and 20 from language in the state budget to change the end date for a $325 per-student spending increase from 2025 to 2425, locking the increase in place each year for 400 years. The move left GOP legislators outraged. The bottom line is the governor is not a legislator and should not be abusing the partial veto to act as a legislator, said the amendment's lead author Rep. Amanda Nedweski. It's time that we are the ones to have the courage to restore true representation in taxation. The Assembly also was set to approve a bill that would raise bow and crossbow license fees for out-of-state deer hunters for the second time in less than a year in an attempt to shrink a gaping deficit in the state's wildlife management account. The Republican-authored proposal would raise out-of-state fees for bow and crossbow licenses from $165 to $200, the current cost of a nonresident gun deer license. The $35 increase is projected to generate an additional $409,000 for the account annually, according to DNR estimates. UNITED NATIONS The United States vetoed a widely supported U.N. resolution Tuesday demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war in the embattled Gaza Strip, saying it would interfere with negotiations on a deal to free hostages abducted in Israel. The vote in the 15-member Security Council was 13-1 with the United Kingdom abstaining, reflecting the strong support from countries around the globe for ending the war, which started when Hamas militants invaded southern Israel on Oct. 7. Since then, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's military offensive, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which says the vast majority were women and children. It was the third U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution demanding a cease-fire in Gaza and came a day after the United States circulated a rival resolution that would support a temporary cease-fire linked to the release of all hostages. Virtually every council member including the United States expressed concern at the impending catastrophe in Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where some 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge, if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu goes ahead with his plan to evacuate civilians and move Israel's military offensive to the area bordering Egypt, where Israel says Hamas fighters are hiding. Before the vote, Algeria's U.N. Ambassador Amar Bendjama, the Arab representative on the council, said: "A vote in favor of this draft resolution is a support to the Palestinians' right to life. Conversely, voting against it implies an endorsement of the brutal violence and collective punishment inflicted against them." U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United States understands the desire for urgent action but believes the resolution would "negatively impact" sensitive negotiations on a hostage deal and a pause in fighting for at least six weeks. If that happens, "we can take the time to build a more enduring peace," she said. The proposed U.S. resolution, she said, "would do what this text does not pressure Hamas to take the hostage deal that is on the table and help secure a pause that allows humanitarian assistance to reach Palestinian civilians in desperate need." Aid halts The World Food Program said Tuesday it paused deliveries of food to isolated northern Gaza because of increasing chaos across the territory, hiking fears of potential starvation. A study by the U.N. childrens agency warned that one in six children in the north are acutely malnourished. Entry of aid trucks into the besieged territory declined by more than half the past two weeks, according to U.N. figures. Overwhelmed U.N. and relief workers said intake of trucks and distribution are crippled by Israeli failure to ensure convoys safety amid its bombardment and ground offensive and by a breakdown in security, with hungry Palestinians frequently overwhelming trucks to take food. The weakening of the aid operation threatens to deepen misery across the territory, where Israels air and ground offensive has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, obliterated entire neighborhoods and displaced more than 80% of the population of 2.3 million. The north, including Gaza City, has been isolated since Israeli troops first moved into it in late October. Large swaths of the city have been reduced to rubble, but several hundred thousand Palestinians remain largely cut off from aid. They describe famine-like conditions, in which families limit themselves to one meal a day and often resort to mixing animal and bird fodder with grains to bake bread. The situation is beyond your imagination, said Soad Abu Hussein, a widow and mother of five children sheltering in a school in Jabaliya refugee camp. Cease-fire proposal Israel's U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the word cease-fire is used in the Security Council, the General Assembly and by U.N. officials "as if it is a silver bullet, a magical solution to all of the region's problems." He called that "an absurd notion," warning that a cease-fire in Gaza would enable Hamas to rearm and regroup and "their next attempted genocide against Israelis will only be a question of when, not if." Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, shot back that the "message given today to Israel with this veto is that it can continue to get away with murder." He warned that more babies will be killed and orphaned, more children will die of hunger, cold and disease, more families will be threatened with further forced displacement, and Gaza's entire 2.3 million population will be left without food, water, medicine and shelter. In a sharply critical message to the United States, Israel's closest ally, Mansour said: "It means that human lives that could have been saved are instead being forsaken to Israel's genocidal war machine, deliberately, knowingly, by those who oppose a cease-fire." Next steps What happens next remains to be seen. The 22-nation Arab Group could take its resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, which includes all 193 U.N. member nations, where it is virtually certain to be approved. But unlike Security Council resolutions, assembly resolutions are not legally binding. The Arab-backed resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire to be respected by all parties, which implies an end to the war. By contrast, the U.S. draft resolution would support a temporary cease-fire "as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released," and call for "lifting all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale." It is the first time the U.S. has used the word "cease-fire," as opposed to cessation of hostilities. SANTA BARBARA, Calif. A judge has declared that Kevin Costner and his wife of nearly two decades, Christine Baumgartner, are now legally divorced, according to court records filed Tuesday. The couple's marriage ended, and both became single, on Friday, nine months after she filed for divorce, a judgment entered in Santa Barbara County court showed. In the first months after their split, Costner And Baumgartner fought in court over child custody and support payments and appeared to be headed for a contentious trial. But they reached a settlement agreement in September that allowed them to avoid it. The two will have joint custody of their sons, ages 16 and 15, and daughter, age 13. A judge in September ordered Costner to pay about $63,000 per month in child support, after she had sought about $175,000 per month. Costner, 69, and Baumgartner, 48, a model and handbag designer, began dating in 1998 and married at his Colorado ranch in 2004. It was the second marriage for Costner, the Oscar and Emmy-winning star of TVs Yellowstone and films including Dances With Wolves, The Bodyguard and Bull Durham. He also has four adult children from previous relationships. The Hall County Attorneys Office has dropped the criminal case against a former Grand Island teacher who lost his job last year as a result of the sexual assault allegations. Philip Zlomke, 41, had denied the accusations. At a two-day trial in October in Hall County District Court, the jury found Zlomke not guilty of two counts of first-degree sexual assault alleged to have occurred in October 2021 involving an adult woman, according to his attorney, Jon Hendricks. Hendricks said after he and co-counsel, Robert Alexander, got discovery in the second case, where Zlomke was accused of two counts of sexual assault of a minor, prosecutors agreed to file a motion to dismiss it last week. The case since has been sealed. When the allegations came out, Zlomke had been a teacher at a middle school in Grand Island, though the allegations didnt involve Grand Island Public School students, according to the district. Last summer, he had asked the Grand Island Public Schools Board of Education to maintain his contract until his court case was resolved, but the board unanimously voted to end his contract effective immediately. On Friday, Hendricks called it a sad deal all around. While Zlomke got his life back and got justice in his case, hes no longer working in the career he loves, he said. Grand Island lost a great teacher, Hendricks said. He said Zlomke had been voted teacher of the year several times and earned a masters degree in teaching while the case was pending. CEDAR FALLS Authorities have added charges against a former University of Northern Iowa student accused of harassing school officials and threatening to shoot a university employee. The latest charges allege Aisha Ahamad Nyala, 25, recently of Altoona, used an Instagram social media page titled UNI Yoga Club to harass Allyson Rafanello, the dean of students, and Heather Harbach, UNIs vice president of student life. On Monday, Nyala was arrested for 11 counts of stalking by use of a technological device, one count of misdemeanor first-degree harassment and 11 counts of misdemeanor third-degree harassment. Bond was set at $112,000. The UNI Yoga Club Instagram page says the club is a place for students to come together to increase their knowledge and skills in yoga. Posts on the account started in 2021 with yoga-related content but then shifted in July 2023 to focus on posts critical of the universitys handling of sexual assault complaints. In court records, investigators singled out posts that named UNI staff and called them dishonest and abusive, claimed they support racism, compared them to slave owners and featured photos of them with their families. In investigating the case, Cedar Falls police noticed Nyala had linked her personal Instagram account to the yoga account, records state. Mondays arrest was the latest in charges against Nyala. In January, police arrested Nyala after she allegedly placed a phone call to the Iowa Board of Regents about a complaint she had filed and allegedly threatened to shoot someone in the head if something wasnt done. In early February, she was arrested again, this time for alleged harassment of UNI officials over the Facebook social media platform. Female Gamers on The Rise Despite Rampant Misogyny The Truth About Who Games Misogyny Runs Rampant in Gaming Ensuring Gaming Is Safe for Everyone We Need a Cultural Shift CEDAR FALLS The world has changed dramatically over the last 50 years, but until recently one thing had remained consistent: the look of the University of Northern Iowa Industrial Technology Center. But that now has changed. Renamed the Applied Engineering Building, it has been transformed by a much-needed facelift and expansion. The facility is getting ready to welcome back students. On Tuesday, UNI officials showed off the $44.7 million renovation project, $40 million of which was funded with state dollars. The building has grown from 64,000 square feet to 109,000 square feet since ground was broken in June 2022. Originally built in 1974 to educate shop teachers, the remodeled building is different, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that bathe rooms in natural light. The expanded facility will give students the space required for computer classrooms and laboratories while allowing them to work on real-world projects with industry-standard technology. We really wanted the entire building to look and feel like a classroom, explained Mike Zwanziger, UNI assistant vice president and director of facilities, while pointing up at the ceiling. We have a lot of wiring throughout the building that is labeled so the students can see how everything is put together. We also wanted to take into consideration the technologies of tomorrow by having the 3-D printer and other tools. Lisa Riedle, head of the department of applied engineering and technical management, said the entire building at 2900 Campus St. highlights the work the college does. Before the renovation, a lot of people didnt know where we were. Now we have these large windows throughout the building. These buildings and the sidewalks around the facility give us the opportunity to better showcase our work. Once we get the printers and everything in here Im sure people will be interested, Riedle said. The department of applied engineering and technical management houses a variety of programs training students for the highest-need job sectors in Iowa. Majors include technical project management, manufacturing, engineering technology, construction management, graphics and technology education fields. Its often hard to recruit quality applicants who are able to keep up with emerging technologies. Nate Bryant, assistant project manager at the UNI Metal Casting Center & Foundry 4.0 Center, said the new facility can prepare students for what is ahead in their field. Weve gone through the fourth Industrial Revolution recently, which is tied to automation and using control systems to automate previously manual tasks. We are now teaching students to interface with the digital world instead of the analog world, Bryant said. We are planning to have classes operating in this space the Monday after spring break. Movers will start to move the equipment out of the back labs and into the classrooms, and then we will get everything connected, Zwanziger said. UNI students will be completely moved into the new space by December. Photos: UNI men's basketball vs. Bradley, Feb. 18 CEDAR FALLS The City Council gave early consent Monday to a tax rate for its proposed fiscal year 2025 budget that would lead overall property tax collections to soar by 8.8% over last year. Collections would total $25.9 million compared with the $23.8 million approved last year, according to Finance and Business Operations Director Jennifer Rodenbeck. The committee meeting marked the first time the council publicly reviewed its draft budget. While there were challenges developing the $98.3 million budget (or $114.8 million if certain transfers are included), Rodenbeck said the city would not see any dramatic changes to city services or personnel if approved as presented. The proposal is based on previous requests by city departments and conversations with elected officials. It would support new expenses, as well, like a second school resource officer and construction of a roundabout at the Prairie Parkway and Viking Road intersection. The collections calculation is based on a proposed tax rate of $11.93 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. Thats viewed as the maximum possible rate for the new budget beginning July 1 and may be lowered by councilmembers as the process unfolds before the April 30 deadline. The $11.93 rate is 4.65% higher than the $11.40 approved last year after rounds of discussions, but is touted as being one of the lower tax rates among the top 20 most populous cities in Iowa. Right now, individual homeowners would see a 6.49% increase on average in the city portion of their property tax bill after factoring in the county property revaluation of 20%, another average, and the dip in the state rollback from 54.65% in the current fiscal year to 46.34%. That drop in the rollback, the percentage of a propertys value that can be taxed, limits how much the city could receive from property valuations increasing by $748 million, or 19.67%, of which $562 million was driven by residential properties. Councilmember Daryl Kruse, who was at the center of the push last year to bring that average individual increase down to zero, advocated Monday for reducing the starting rate earlier in the process than a lot of his colleagues. Councilmember Dustin Ganfield supported him by motioning for an $11.90 rate, but the proposition was defeated by a 5-2 vote. I'd like to see a little lower number for our max levy rate because it forces us into finding some places to compromise, Ganfield said. The early reduction would have seen a rarely used programs funding cut in half. It offers assistance to those interested in converting rentals into owner-occupied housing. Ganfield also went as far as to suggest using general fund savings to help fund the program and lowering the tax burden even more. This way we keep the rental conversion and it allows us to have that conversation about how to massage it into efficacy, he said. I did have some conversations with some Realtors around town, and they say our rental market is in good shape and were not going to endanger them by deconverting some rentals. Opponents wanted to see budget revisions discussed during a future public hearing, when residents can weigh in. Others councilmembers also want to explore creating a more successful rental program at the current funding level of about $100,000. Were talking about a reduction in the budget as we have it right now, so something has to be cut in order to get that number lower, said Councilmember Aaron Hawbaker. Whether its the rental conversion or something else, it doesnt matter. I think we need to have public input. There seems to be interest on the council in lowering the rate at some point. But Kruse suggested the overall flavor of the council is not to debate which items to cut this early in the process. Im not fundamentally opposed to reducing the overall number, but I also dont want to paint us into a corner, said Councilmember Chris Latta. I do think Councilmember Kruses point is well served that (the rental conversion program) does seem to have been an underutilized program. That said, I would appreciate some more public input before we move forward. House File 718, a bill thats gotten attention because of its impact on local government, changed the budget process this year and beyond. Cities will send a letter March 5 to all taxpayers with the rate and further breakdown on the impact, though Rodenbeck is worried about the presentation being a bit confusing. One reason is its not personalized to each individual situation. A special hearing, outside a regular council meeting, will be held on the rate on April 1. The budget itself must be approved by April 30. The bill brings about another notable change. Thats the consolidation of the citys library and band levies underneath its general operations levy, known as the $8.10 levy, though theyre being phased out and the full extent of the impact wont be felt until fiscal year 2029. Rodenbeck also noted how the impact wont be solely felt by the library and band. What we like to make sure people understand is it doesnt just affect those two, she said. When you take a piece of pie and you are having to bring more pieces in there, the pie doesnt get bigger, its just something else has to shrink. Thats why weve been having meetings with departments and letting them know that this isnt just about library, this could have an effect on everybody. Photos: State Wrestling Quarterfinals at Wells Fargo Arena Thursday, Feb.15 CEDAR FALLS A well-known figure called out Councilmember Daryl Kruse during the City Council's public comment time Monday for his arguably unmaintained rental properties around the University of Northern Iowa campus. The resident went as far as to ask Kruse to resign if he does not choose to be more honest and ethical with his comments as an elected official who does not report the College Hill properties on his conflict of interest statement. The longest-serving councilmember wrote none known on the latest rendition of the disclosures that were accepted unanimously Jan. 2 by the council and addressed by the resident, Bob Manning. Kruse said in a telephone interview he has no plans to resign and strongly dismissed Manning's characterization of him while acknowledging he had some work to do on the properties. Manning referenced several properties -- three of which sit across the street from UNI President Mark Nooks house on College Street. The Courier confirmed they are owned by Kruse under his name, not a separate LLC, and have rental permits, per city and county databases. They include: 2510, 2516 and 2522 College St.; and 813, 808, 802-804 and 801-803 W. 28th St. Manning spoke on behalf of himself not the Cedar Valley Homebuilders Association where he serves as the executive officer, any group, or even his wife, a retired city official whom he jokingly said after the meeting is someone who does not like controversy. Perhaps this is why he so firmly lobbies against the College Hill visioning plan as this could boil over into requiring his properties to be fined or repaired, Manning told the council in his prepared remarks. We understand that the council is looking into revising (how the) conflict of interest statement (is handled). We applaud them for that," he said. "But this is not Washington, D.C. This is Cedar Falls, Iowa, where we dont think we have to legislate to the nth degree. We agree that's necessary because personal ethics should play a big part in how our council operates. "But, alas, it appears we do have to legislate this when one individual tries to sweep things under the rug. Manning vowed to take up the manner with the city attorney and code enforcement office. Its not the first time Manning has been vocal and direct on an issue, nor is it the first time hes had a beef with Kruse. In one instance, Manning publicly criticized the Planning & Zoning Commission for voting against the revised and controversial Autumn Ridge housing plans because of the need for more places for people to live. He also reached out to The Courier with objections to how Kruse handled his unsuccessful push at the 11th hour for a roundabout at the Sixth and Main streets intersection as part of massive reconstruction plans. College Hill has been of great interest to landlords when it comes to the visioning document that was recently readopted by the council to guide the areas revitalization. Several months ago, attorney Eashaan Vajpeyi spoke to the council on behalf of the Concerned Citizens of College Hill, a group of primarily landlords, against the visioning document. They, along with Kruse, fear the area will promote dense housing and not enough places to park if controversial zoning is adopted as some feel is a given with the vision document. Neither Kruse nor any other councilmembers offered up a public response to Mannings comments Monday. "I actively do maintenance on all my properties, abide by all the rental codes. The properties always and consistently pass rental inspections as well as insurance company inspections," said Kruse in a statement. "In no way shape or form am I a slumlord. Slumlords refuse to improve their properties. I've put many thousands of dollars into improvements over the years at my properties." Kruse noted over the phone a thought the attack was tied to his recent pushback against the controversial zoning known as "form-based zoning" and his contention it takes away property rights. "I've filed the form for several years and this has never been a problem," he added. Mannings comment also marked the second time that the conflict of interest form was the focus of dissatisfaction in the council chambers. Last year was the first time the disclosures were intentionally made public as part of a meeting agenda, though anyone could request them as an official public record. Former Mayor Rob Green previously called out former Councilmember Dave Sires for being the only one not to fill one out. I make my disclosure to the City Council, not to the administrator or the city attorney, because it is the City Council that is the decision making body for the city, Sires said at the time. Sires' rationale was a reflection of how he felt the city's bureaucrats were in charge of the city and not those elected to office. Photos: Wartburg wrestling in National Duals at UNI-Dome, Jan. 6 National Duals 14 National Duals 12 National Duals 13 National Duals 15 National Duals 10 National Duals 11 India-China hold fresh round of talks, agree to maintain 'peace', 'tranquility' India and China have agreed to maintain "peace" and "tranquility" on the ground in eastern Ladakh during 21st round of Corps Commander level meeting on Chushul-Moldo border. The meeting was held on Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday. The MEA said: "The discussions built on the previous rounds sought complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas. The two sides shared their perspectives on this in the talks held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. "The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. They also committed to maintaining peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas in the interim." According to the defence experts, the two sides agreed to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. WATERLOO The City Council may take a ceremonial approach to denounce atrocities in the Israel-Hamas war, even after residents pleaded for approval of a cease-fire resolution. The council held its second work session Monday regarding a resolution calling for a cease-fire as well as affirming opposition to Islamophobic, anti-Arab and antisemitic actions. Mayor Quentin Hart said the issue will be on the March 5 council agenda. How the topic will be presented is unclear. Some councilmembers brought forth the idea of reading a proclamation and not approving a resolution. A proclamation would highlight the issue, but no governmental action would be taken. A resolution is a formal statement of policy or an order for action. The proposed resolution from the citys human rights commission condemns the killings of civilians in Gaza and the West Bank by the state of Israel. It also affirms support for local residents to live without intimidation, coercion or the threat of violence based on their political stances. The resolution will be updated to include the condemnation of killings perpetuated by Hamas. If read as a proclamation, one part of the resolution would become moot. It says the signed resolution would be sent to the Legislature, Gov. Kim Reynolds, Iowas congressional delegation and President Joe Biden. Seven residents pushing for the resolution spoke during public comment session at the council meeting about why a proclamation isnt the direction the city should take. This is not nearly a symbolic gesture, its a matter of life and death, Whitney Rissi said. Passing this local resolution will exert pressure on our state and federal governments, urging them to align with a majority of Americans who are calling for a cease-fire. A November poll from Reuters/Ipsos found that 68% of more than 1,000 respondents believe Israel should call for a cease-fire and try to negotiate with Hamas. At-large Councilmember Steve Simon, Ward 2 Councilmember Dave Boesen and Ward 1 Councilmember John Chiles believe asking for a cease-fire is not city business. Simon said hes talked to hundreds of people who say the issue is not the purview of the council. Nobody thinks that we should be involved in this (and) that a small municipality in the center of the United States isnt going to make a difference, he said. Sorry to say, I know we want to throw our voice in behind something else, but you cant take a Waterloo voice if were not all with the same voice. He, along with Chiles, said passing a resolution would not send a big enough message to anyone. I dont believe that we have the impact even with intention, Chiles said. I still have not been pushed to see how this will positively change anything in that situation for the people that are here. But supporters of the resolution said passage would show the city is listening to members of the community who have connections in Israel and Palestine. Resident Amelia Gotera said during a panel led by the human rights commission that she talked to a man whose father recently left Gaza. According to her, the man said the city passing a resolution would show support and make people like him feel like a part of the community. It matters so much to the people within our community who are going through this; these painful throes every night to wake up and wonder if your family members have made it through the night, she said. Ward 4 Councilmember Belinda Creighton-Smith said passing a resolution would show the city realizes the significance of serving all of our constituents. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War ALLISON -- Iowa House Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, of House District 57 will host a public forum from 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 23, in the meeting room of the Allison Public Library, 412 Third St. CEDAR FALLS -- Sons of Norway will meet at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Cedar Falls Women's Club. Brunch will be served. The program will be given by Kenneth Lyftogt, professor emeritus in the department of history at the University of Northern Iowa. He will share information from his award-winning three volume history on Iowa and the Civil War. The Biden administration is wading into a contentious debate about whether the most powerful artificial intelligence systems should be "open-source" or closed. MESQUITE, Texas At a bustling construction site outside of Dallas, there are hopes that Congress can finally pass nearly $95 billion in foreign aid including funding for Ukraine because factory jobs in the United States depend on that money. Aerospace and defense company General Dynamics new factory in the Dallas suburb of Mesquite is expected to initially employ 150 people to produce munitions. Set to open in June, construction is nearing completion, with newly planted trees and shrubs already in place at the complex overlooking one of the areas busiest interstates. We want to increase our wages and increase our skill levels and job opportunities, said Kim Buttram, Mesquite's director of economic development, who added that the factory is expected to have over 300 jobs when its at full production. As President Joe Biden pushes House Republicans to pass needed aid, he wants voters to understand that nearly two-thirds or nearly $40 billion of the money for Ukraine would actually go to U.S. factories spread out across the country including plants in Lima, Ohio, and Scranton, Pennsylvania, as well as Mesquite. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has refused to put the bill up for a vote on the House floor on the premise that it does not meet the needs of the American public. The supplemental spending measure contains a total of $95 billion in foreign aid, including money for Ukraine, Israel and other countries. Of the $60.7 billion for Ukraine, $38.8 billion would go to U.S. factories that make missiles, munitions and other gear, according to figures provided to The Associated Press by the Biden administration. While this bill sends military equipment to Ukraine, Biden said Tuesday, it spends the money right here in the United States of America in places like Arizona, where the Patriot missiles are built; and Alabama, where the Javelin missiles are built; and Pennsylvania, Ohio and Texas, where artillery shells are made. The president's argument challenges criticism by some Republican lawmakers that the federal government should be spending more money at home instead of supporting overseas wars. In this case, most of the money goes to U.S. companies and workers, funding assembly lines to refill depleted stockpiles of weapons and gear that have already gone to Ukraine. The Democratic president is openly channeling Franklin Delano Roosevelt and resurrecting the World War II-era concept that America is the arsenal of democracy. His sales pitch to the public is that his foreign policy is also about jobs for the U.S. middle class. But Biden is brushing up against opposition from former President Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner who ascended to the White House in 2016 on the promise of reviving U.S. manufacturing. Trump opposes the U.S. package to help Ukraine and has openly expressed a willingness to let Russia invade NATO allies who do not spend enough of their own budgets on defense. Many Republicans in Congress have taken their lead from Trump, with the party's right flank increasingly questioning the value of U.S. interventions around the world and long-standing alliances built in the aftermath of World War II. Johnson has refused to bring the foreign aid bill up for a vote because it also lacks provisions to secure the U.S. southern border where immigrants are crossing illegally. But he previously rejected a bipartisan Senate bill that did provide funding to address immigration challenges, saying that the border measures would not solve the problem in the way that he wanted. The Republican-led House will not be jammed or forced into passing a foreign aid bill that was opposed by most Republican senators, Johnson said at a news conference last week. It's time for Washington to start showing some love to Americans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, in contrast, has repeatedly implored his colleagues to understand that the funds from the package are for historic investments right here in America. This is about rebuilding the arsenal of democracy, McConnell, R-Kentucky, said in a floor speech during the long days of debate, and demonstrating to our allies and adversaries alike that were serious about exercising American strength. The Mesquite factory sits in the congressional district of Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, who told Fox Business News in a December interview that he couldn't tell his constituents that he voted for money for Ukraine without also getting money to secure the U.S. southern border. I will never support any funding for Ukraine that does not include major measures of security at our own southern border, said Gooden. His office did not respond to questions sent over email from The Associated Press for this story. U.S. factories shipped out nearly $162 billion worth of military goods last year, according to the Census Bureau. The shipments increased 8.1% compared to 2022. The supplemental funding could further drive factory production upward this year. But defense manufacturing can be volatile. Spending declined between 2010 and 2015. It then grew over the next four years, only to dip in 2021 and then climb again after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. But on Friday, after news of the death of imprisoned Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, Biden again pushed House Republicans to pass aid to Ukraine and take a stand against Russian leader Vladimir Putin. But the House had gone into recess on Thursday afternoon. Its about time they step up dont you think? instead of going on a two-week vacation, Biden said. What are they thinking? My God, this is bizarre. The fate of several county ordinances that restrict the placement of carbon dioxide pipelines in Iowa might hinge on the federal court appeals of two lawsuits. Shelby and Story counties were the first of five counties sued by Summit Carbon Solutions over their ordinances that require the pipelines to be located minimum distances from houses, schools, medical facilities and other places where people and livestock congregate. Those first lawsuits were filed in November 2022, and a federal judge decided in December 2023 that the county restrictions are overruled by the authority of state and federal regulators and, as such, cannot be enforced. Since the early lawsuits were filed, a further three counties have passed their own similar ordinances including two since the judges decisions despite the threat of litigation from Summit. The company promptly sued them, too, seeking permanent injunctions to bar enforcement of the ordinances. The other counties are Emmet, Kossuth and Palo Alto. All three of those lawsuits will likely be paused until the appeals are decided, court records show. Dickinson County is also considering its own ordinance. Summit wants to build an $8 billion, five-state pipeline system that would connect to about 50 ethanol plants, half of which are in Iowa. It would transport captured carbon dioxide to North Dakota for underground storage through about 2,400 miles of pipe. The ordinances reflect the fears of residents about what might happen if the system suffers a catastrophic breach. Under certain conditions, pipeline breaks can release a thick plume of carbon dioxide that stays close to the ground and can travel significant distances. That was the case in Satartia, Mississippi, in 2020, although federal regulators have said that incident which sickened dozens of people was an outlier. Summit has said the county ordinances will disrupt its route and potentially block its project entirely. The company prevailed earlier this month over county ordinances in North Dakota, but it has been stymied by them in South Dakota. South Dakota lawmakers are considering new legislation to bar their counties from restricting the pipelines. The bill cleared an initial vote last week. The appeals Chief Judge Stephanie Rose, of the federal Southern District of Iowa, sided with Summit in two of its lawsuits in December. The challenged restrictions impose severe limitations that will lead to a situation where the (Iowa Utilities Board) may grant a permit to construct a pipeline and Summit is unable to do so, Rose wrote. Shelby and Story counties appealed the decisions later that month. Those appeals have been consolidated into one set of proceedings, and an initial brief from the counties is due March 8, court records show. Its unclear when the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals might issue a final decision. Summits lawsuit against Emmet County the third it filed, in March 2023 was recently paused, pending the appeals. Given the similarities between the ordinances and preemption claims at issue in the cases, the county expects that the Eight Circuits resolution of the Shelby County and Story County appeals will be significant to or even possibly dispositive of the resolution of the issues in this case, wrote Jason Craig, a Des Moines attorney who represents the counties, in a request for the stay of proceedings regarding Emmet. The newest lawsuits against Kossuth and Palo Alto counties were filed in January, and requests to pause those proceedings until the appeals court rules are pending. The IUB is poised to issue its decision on whether to grant or deny Summit a hazardous liquid pipeline permit in Iowa. The company has said it aims to have the pipeline system operational in 2026. The Post Office Act of 1792 is the most important piece of legislation youve never heard of. It turned the postal network into a marketplace of ideas rather than a means for generating revenue. Today, our primary channels for the spread of ideas -- social media platforms -- are steered by profit rather than the publics interest. If that status quo persists, you can expect our democracy to continue to deteriorate. Thats why weve got to study and learn from the Post Office Act, Congress postal power and the expectations of the Founders. A quick historical review suggests the government not only has the authority to intervene in the marketplace of ideas but actually has an affirmative duty to do so. Our democracy will fail if people dont have access to timely, accurate and actionable news. That's why the Founders established and expanded a postal network. Thanks to the Post Office Act, the 69 post offices in 1788 became 13,000 by 1840. Whats more, the law subsidized the spread of democratic information by lowering the postage rate for newspapers and eliminating postage for the exchange of news between printers. Over the course of a few decades, Congress made sure that Americans in every nook and cranny of the country could read about current affairs in quality newspapers. Danielle Coffey: Big Tech is threat to your local news Readers lose when Meta and Google control access to vital information online Two centuries later, it appears Congress has forgotten its obligation to maintain a primary channel for the distribution of democratic knowledge. That obligation is baked into Article I, Section 8, Clause 7 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to establish post offices and post roads. Given that no alternative channels for mass communication were around when the Constitution was written, this clause should be interpreted as a grant of authority to develop a robust marketplace of ideas. You might ask why the Founders didnt instead grant Congress the power to ensure widespread access to information on current affairs. But thats akin to asking why we didnt have ChatGPT policies in 2004. You cant regulate what hasnt been invented. When the Founders authorized congressional control over the postal network, they were authorizing government intervention in the only channel of mass communication that had ever been known. Congress postal power should be read in a technologically neutral way -- any other interpretation would render much of Congress other enumerated powers pointless. A quick thought exercise proves my point. Article I, Section 8, Clause 13 empowers Congress to "provide and maintain a Navy." The Navy in 1790 looked a lot different than todays Navy. If this clause wasnt read in an instrumental fashion -- to permit Congress to maintain a functioning Navy -- then one could argue that Congress should only fund 36-gun frigates even though technological advances have since made those ships obsolete. Media executives urge Congress to enact legislation to prevent AI models from training on stolen goods (CNN) A group of media executives urged lawmakers on Wednesday to enact new legislation that would force artificial intelligence developers to pay publishers for use of their content to train their computer models. Today, the postal network is no longer the primary channel for the distribution of news. That title belongs to social media platforms. Dont take my word for it. Heres what the Supreme Court had to say in 2017: Cyberspace hosts the most important places for the exchange of views. Yet, in the same way our postal network used to be perceived solely as a money-maker, we have been lured into accepting a narrow conception of social media platforms as economic entities rather than essential and irreplaceable channels of communication. The Post Office Act, viewed in the political and technological context of the times, should remind us that the Founders would have vigorously contested the primary channels of communication being exclusively operated by private entities and, for all intents and purposes, solely in the interest of profit. Thomas Jefferson noted that the success of a democracy hinges on the people having "full information of their affairs through the channel of the public papers." That's why he called for a communications network that ensured "those papers ... penetrate the whole mass of the people." Jefferson went so far as to say, "were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter." George Washington likewise stressed the "importance of facilitating the circulation of political intelligence and information." A democracy requires a primary channel for distributing news about current affairs. If that channel had been in the hands of a few merchants with insufficient concern about our collective democratic health, do you think these revolutionaries would have accepted that untenable status quo? The only rational answer is 'no.' So lets learn from our Founders demand a reconception of our information ecosystem that serves people rather than profit. In particular, scholars and policymakers should explore a new interpretation of Congresss postal power to unleash a long overdue reconfiguration of our marketplace of ideas. Bank of Ireland has appointed Alan Durcan as Director of Distribution Channels in its Retail Ireland division. Mr Durcan will lead Bank of Irelands Branch Network, which includes over 1,600 colleagues supporting customers financial needs across a broad range of products and services, in-branch, remotely and at their place of work. The Mayo native joined Bank of Ireland in 2008 and has held a number of senior roles within the Group. He has extensive experience across a diverse range of areas including personal and business banking, branch operations, customer and colleague engagement, and wealth management. Susan Russell, CEO, Bank of Ireland Retail Ireland, commented: I am delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Durcan as Director of Distribution Channels for our Retail Ireland division. Alan brings vast experience to the role having delivered strongly in a range of previous positions within the company. Our distribution channels includes 169 branches nationwide and support thousands of customers every day. Alan and his team will be central to this vitally important work, ensuring we are there when our customers need us and that we continue to support their financial wellbeing. Bank of Irelands Retail Ireland customers have access to a range of channels to fulfil their banking requirements including branches, 24/7 ATMs, digital, contact centre, and Bank of Irelands post office partnership for day-to-day banking services. The Bank recently announced an investment of more than 60 million in branch improvements, including its largest single investment in ATMs in the last decade. Share this post or pin it for later! Pinterest Facebook Email WhatsApp Is there anything better than a day spent snorkeling Oahu? I love planning excursions when vacationing in Hawaii, and snorkeling is at the top of my list. Friends told me about some of the best snorkeling spots in Oahu, and I was determined to experience them in person. With warm waters and vibrant coral reefs, Oahu is a fantastic area of the Hawaiian islands for snorkelingI saw magnificent fish and marine animals! This snorkeling Oahu guide has everything from beginner snorkeler spots to intermediate areas. Book fun Oahu activities below through GetYourGuide: Snorkeling Oahu: 13 Otherworldly Spots 1. Three Tables When arriving at Three Tables, wear your goggles and snorkeling gear and prepare for an unforgettable experience. This area earned its nickname from the three tabular reefs along the shoreline. With many healthy corals and aquatic life, most visitors see green sea turtles and eagle rays from the furthest reef. Three Tables offers a secluded, peaceful escape from other overcrowded snorkeling Oahu spots. The small stretch of sand is perfect for a chill beach day or sandcastle-building, while the surrounding trees provide shade. Families with young children will enjoy snorkeling hereremember there is no supervision or lifeguard service. Be careful if you visit during winter when the waves are strong. Three Tables is part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, home to native species like monk seals and endangered Hawaiian creatures. Fishing is strictly forbidden here so the aquatic ecosystems can flourish. 2. Sunset Beach Park Escape to Oahus North Shore paradise to discover Sunset Beach Park, famous for its majestic views, tranquil crystal clear waters, and picturesque palms. Sunset Beach is an oasis for snorkelers and surfers, making it an excellent option for the whole group. From the beautiful beach, marvel at an array of vibrant marine life and coralfurther out, the waters become increasingly deep with sandbanks. Be cautious when swimming close to the reefs to avoid getting cut. Snorkeling at Sunset Beach Park isnt recommended in winter due to its massive swells, which are fun for surfing but dangerous to snorkel. 3. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is a fantastic experience that water lovers must try. Located 20 minutes from Honolulu is the beautiful Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, famous for its mild waves, shallow entry point, and picturesque aquamarine waters. Hanauma Bay is home to many marine species, making it an ideal destination for a day of salt, sun, and sea! The bay allows snorkelers to explore multiple locations with varying difficulty levels. From colorful coral formations to sea turtles in their natural habitat, theres something special here for everyone. Along the curved bay, visitors will find various snorkeling sites perfect for beginnersdont forget you can jump in from the shore. The shoreline features sandbanks and rocky reefs, which create stunning miniature tidal pools. Local conservation efforts protect this remarkable ecosystem, and youll need to make reservations ahead of time and pay a fee to enter. 4. Kuilima Cove Kuilima Cove, behind Turtle Bay Resort, is the perfect destination for snorkeling, especially with young children. Calm, crystal-clear waters make this cove ideal for exploring the underwater world. The bay area lies in a naturally protected cove surrounded by land, so expect a vast soft sand beach with easy ocean access. Stay mindful while entering the wateravoid stepping on rocks near the shoreline, as they can be sharp. Kuilima Cove, often called Turtle Bay Beach, is the perfect snorkeling Oahu spot for sea turtles. Visit early in the morning for your best chance to spot the creatures in their natural environment. 5. Waimea Bay Waimea Bay is highly regarded for its fantastic visibility, pristine beach, and one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience. Entering the water from shore is effortless, and it feels like youre swimming in a giant pool because the waters are incredibly tranquil. The Rock, a colossal ocean boulder in the center of Waimea Bay, is one of its most distinctive features. This formation is excellent for lounging with friends and boasts thrilling rock jumping and climbing activities. Underwater tunnels lie beneath The Rock, where you can swim alongside schools of fishventure to the far ends of the beach for incredible coral formations! Many sea turtles live here in addition to dolphins, creating a postcard-worthy scene. Image via Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources 6. Kaena Point State Park Go snorkeling at western Oahus Kaena Point State Park for a taste of paradise. This stunning beach park is brimming with local history and folklore storiessome believe souls venture here when they depart from this world. Aside from the captivating tales, its also famous for breathtaking scenery above and below the water, perfect for snorkeling. While traveling to the main beaches, youll encounter vast fields, dunes, and friendly seals. Once arriving at the destination, take a moment to admire the beachs rocks, shady palms, and smooth sand. Head to the north side of Mokuleia, with fewer boulders, or go west to Keawaula for a sunset snorkel. Both beaches require walking from the parking lot, but the snorkeling is worth the effort. 7. Laniakea Beach Laniakea Beach is the snorkeling Oahu spot to beat for close encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles. Nicknamed turtle beach, this area boasts natural coves ideal for snorkeling thanks to the soft sand and swaying palm trees. On sunny days, the ocean begins to sparklesnorkeling isnt ideal during choppy conditions when visibility is low. Keep your distance from sea turtles on shore, as they easily blend in with the environment and can be mistaken for rocks. Respect these majestic creatures by allowing them the necessary space for relaxation without disruption or disturbance. 8. Sans Souci Beach Sans Souci Beach is another excellent spot for snorkeling in Oahu, along the islands famous North Shore. This beach is a calm, beginner-friendly destination with shallow waters and minimal waves. The entry point here is straightforward, as you can walk directly into the ocean. Sans Souci Beachs water quality is pristine, and visibility is excellent, making it a great choice for first-time snorkelers. The ocean bed beneath this area features stunning coral formations and fishtheres something new to discover every time. 9. Turtle Canyons Swim among Hawaiis majestic green sea turtles at Turtle Canyons, one of Oahus best snorkeling spots. Unlike other locations, Turtle Canyons can only be accessed by taking a boat tour from Kahanamoku Beach in Waikiki, which lasts around three hours. Shallow waters surround the Ko Olina Lagoons, which are suitable for all experience levels. Jump from the boat and head to Turtle Canyons, where you can marvel at sea turtles while snorkeling. While exploring the ocean depths, watch for other creatures, like octopuses and humpback whales, from December until April. 10. Waialua Bay At Waialua Bay, rocks of all shapes and sizes form an enormous tidal pool perfect for snorkeling. The shallow depths and shelter the surrounding boulders provide make it ideal for beginners, families with children, and casual snorkelers. Scuba diving is also popular off this coast due to the abundant marine life, including tropical fish and a coral reef teeming with Hawaiian sea turtles. For a more challenging snorkeling experience, head to Haleiwa Beach, a five-minute drive from Waialua Bay. Once you arrive, expect turtles to swim unbelievably close to shoremaintain your distance per safety regulations so everyone can enjoy this exquisite area. Be careful navigating areas with sea urchins and reefs to avoid damaging the ecosystem. 11. Sharks Cove Sharks Coves beach boulders and rocks along the shoreline offer idyllic sightseeing and snorkeling opportunities. Dont worry about the namethere are no sharks here! This beautiful area got its nickname because of its shape, which looks like a shark outline. While there isnt much beach area here, crowds play in the tidal pools while exploring hidden corners and crevices. The cove is also home to many crabs, tropical fish, eels, and crustaceans swimming peacefully through the calm water. The main tidal pool is brimming with activity, but head to the righthand side of the beach (where theres no rocky wall) for larger waves and plentiful marine life. Oahus three Marine Life Conservation Districts provide remarkable opportunities to spot graceful schools of fish swimming by. Sharks Cove is the perfect snorkeling Oahu spot during summer but can be risky in winter due to rough conditions and strong currents. For your safety, wear aquatic shoesthere are many rocks at Sharks Cove. 12. Kahe Point Beach Park Kahe Point Beach Park, or Electric Beach, gets its name from the offshore power plant. The warm waters make this spot ideal for spotting aquatic animalswhile the beach is small, youll find turtles and fish under the water. Experienced snorkelers must take advantage of Kahe Point, situated on the south side of the beach. You can find reefs up to 45 feet deep a short swim from the shore. I suggest avoiding this beach park during winter, even for advanced swimmers, as the surf gets rough. 13. Makaha Beach Park Makaha Beach Park offers an extraordinary snorkeling experience with friendly turtles and dolphins. Step onto the soft, white sand, dive into the calm waters and prepare to be awestruck. Note the rocky areas with living reefs, so wear aquatic shoes if you plan to explore here. Swim away from shore for your best chance of sighting spectacular sea life. I especially love visiting this area during summer, when you can lounge in the sun for hours. Snorkeling Oahu is one of the best ways to experience Hawaiis natural beauty and wildlife! If you plan a trip to Hawaii, check out my other Honolulu guides. 14 Epic Hikes to Waterfalls in Oahu Hiking Oahu: The Best Trails Things to Do in Honolulu, Hawaii FAQs Is Oahu suitable for snorkeling? Oahu offers some of the worlds best snorkeling spots! When is the best time of year to visit Oahu? Theres no wrong time to visit Oahu, but spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. What are the best Oahu snorkeling locations? I recommend Hanauma Bay. Share this post or pin it for later! Pinterest Facebook Email WhatsApp After landing in Hawaii, I had three things on my mind: sun, sand, and enjoying a tropical cocktail at one of the best Waikiki beach bars. Waikiki, a Honolulu neighborhood on the island of Oahu, is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, with iconic beaches and stunning ocean views. Its easy to see why many visitors dont want to leave Waikiki once they visit! Grab your swimsuit and sunscreen, and visit these ten cant-miss Waikiki beach bars during your next trip to Hawaii. Book my favorite Waikiki Beach activities below through GetYourGuide: 10 Best Waikiki Beach Bars Image via Dukes Waikiki 1. Dukes Waikiki Barefoot Bar Everyone loves Dukes Waikiki, a beachfront icon in the heart of Waikiki with a perfect view of Diamond Head. The beachside Dukes Waikiki is famous for its laid-back dress code, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and constant flow of locals and visitors. The restaurant honors the Hawaiian surfing legend and Olympic swimmer George Duke Kahanamoku. Dukes is the best beach day hang outstrut up to the beach bar in your swimsuit, grab an original Mai Tai cocktail, and chill out before returning to the ocean. This bar offers endless beach vibes, an extensive tropical drink list, and top-notch food. Image via Halekulani Hotel 2. House Without a Key When the sun peaks over Waikiki Beach, House Without a Key is the place to be. This is one of the best Waikiki beach bars to watch surfers catch waves while sipping a refreshing drink. Seats quickly fill up as the sun begins to set, so arrive early to relax and enjoy the nightly live Hawaiian music and hula performances. I highly recommend the classic Mai Taithe dark rum, lime, orange, and pineapple recipe is perfect to end your day and start your night in Waikiki. Image via @arnoldsbeachbar 3. Arnolds Beach Bar When Im in a tropical place, I want my drinks to come with an umbrella, which Arnolds Beach Bar is all aboutfrom the second you walk in, youll feel like youve entered a tiki paradise. Lush greenery and colorful decor adorn this beachfront grill and bar, famous for its reasonably priced drinks and lively atmosphere. Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking ocean sights at this beachside restaurant and bar. Arnolds is a local favorite that packs a punch despite its small size. Image via Edge Waikiki 4. Edge Waikiki For the ultimate afternoon in paradise, head to Edge Waikiki, the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resorts infinity pool that extends to the beachs edge. This adult-only bar is paradise, to say the leastenjoy a handcrafted cocktail as you watch boats, surfers, and tourists. Bar access is open to the public, but only Sheraton Waikiki guests can use the pool. Shame, I know, but this hotel is worth staying for a night. The Edge has some of the tastiest classic cocktails on the island, including the famous Mai Tai, Lava Flow, and Pina Colada, which pairs excellently with the idyllic views. Image via Royal Hawaiian Hotel 5. Mai Tai Bar One of my favorite Waikiki beach bars is the Mai Tai Bar in the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, also known as The Pink Palace. This spot is credited with inventing the original Mai Tai! With its giant tiki poles, tropical motifs, and wide selection of cocktails and local craft beer, this bar is a favorite among locals and tourists. The Mai Tai Bar serves many creative drinks, such as their signature Royal Hawaiian Mai Tai, and popular beverages, like the Kula Cooler and Wailua Iced Tea. The Mai Tai Bar atmosphere is always fun and welcoming, regardless of your favorite drink. Image via RumFire 6. RumFire Few things pair better than the beach and rumRumFire does it best! By day, RumFire serves classic Spanish tapas and an afternoon tea bar with spiked beverage options. At night, this place becomes one of the top Waikiki nightlife spots with live music and DJs, illuminated by flickering tiki torches that glow warmly across the beach. The place is frequented by locals and tourists who fill the indoor and outdoor seating areas for happy hour or a night out within walking distance of the beach. Image via Kona Brewing Company 7. Kona Brewing Company Kona Brewing Company is the perfect spot for delicious grub and a draft beer, like the Big Wave Golden Ale, Koko Brown Ale, or Castaway IPA. Located on Koko Marina, this pub is a unique restaurant and bar accessible by boat. Watch people windsurfing, parasailing, and paddleboarding on the horizon while savoring your beer. Its also family-friendly, making it the perfect option for the kids. Watch people windsurfing, parasailing, and paddleboarding on the horizon while savoring your beer at this kid-friendly spot. Finish your night here with Kona Brewing Companys tasty wings, shrimp tacos, burgers, or Loco Moco. Image via Halekoa Hotel 8. Koa Oasis Booze Shack Elevate your day-drinking experience at the Koa Oasis Booze Shack, one of the top beach bars steps away from the shore. Enjoy all-day bliss with a shaded umbrellaperfect for a quick drink before or after spending time in the sand. The Booze Shock is a fun and affordable experience in Waikikis paradise, which rarely happens. Their self-proclaimed Best Mai Tai on the Beach is less than $10, and the bartenders are generous with their pours. Image via Tikis Grill & Bar 9. Tikis Grill & Bar Tikis Grill, located in the Twin Fin Hotel, is an upscale yet cozy bar overlooking Waikiki Beach. The whole family will enjoy the bars fun, exciting vibe and the picturesque ocean views that dont require getting your feet wet. After a day of adventure, this is the perfect place to treat yourself and relax to ocean sounds. They have delicious tiki cocktails and local beers to quench your thirst, which you can enjoy while listening to live music at the seaside. Image via The Beach Bar 10. The Beach Bar The Beach Bar at the Moana Surfrider Westin Resort & Spa is a fabulous seaside bar to watch the sunset. Dont be fooled by the premium hotel propertythe Beach Bar is a casual, welcoming spot for tropical drinks and small bites. Listen to the sounds of live music and ocean waves while dancing beneath an over 100-year-old banyan tree. From the idyllic location to the tasty menu, the Beach Bar is a cant-miss. Save this roundup of Waikiki beach bars before your next Hawaiian vacation! Traveling to Hawaii? Check out my other Honolulu content. 9 Unforgettable Waikiki Restaurants With a View 17 Best Places to Eat in Waikiki Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Waikiki FAQs Does Waikiki have good nightlife? Waikiki has many fun rooftop bar and nightclub options for dancing and karaoke nights, like SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar. Check out my recommendations for the best rooftop bars in Waikiki if youre in a party mood! What makes Waikiki Beach unique? Waikiki Beach is world-renowned for its picturesque beauty. What are the best Waikiki Beach bars? I recommend Dukes Waikiki and the Mai Tai Bar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi (File photo) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation, lay the foundation stone and initiate work commencement of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 48,000 crore in Gujarat on Thursday, according to a PMO statement on Wednesday. The Prime Minister will reach Ahmedabad in the forenoon and will participate in the Golden Jubilee celebration of Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) which will be attended by more than 1.25 lakh farmers at Narendra Modi Stadium in the city. At around 12:45 p.m., the Prime Minister will reach Mehsana and perform 'puja' and have 'darshan' at Valinath Mahadev Temple. PM Modi will then participate in two public functions at Mahesana and Navsari, at which he will dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 25,850 crore. The projects will encompass important sectors like road, rail, energy, health, Internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism, etc., in districts like Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Anand, Mahesana, Kachchh, Kheda, Bharuch, Tapi, Vadodara, Surat, Navsari, Panchmahal, Valsad, and Narmada. The Prime Minister will also visit the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station in the state and dedicate to the nation two new Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). Built by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), at a cost of more than Rs 22,500 crore, the KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 projects have a cumulative capacity of 1400 (700x2) MW and are the largest indigenous PHWRs. http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/73506 The situation in Avdeyevka is apparently a success that needs to be expanded. But it must be well prepared with the proper number of personnel and the appropriate amount of weaponry, military hardware and munitions. All the military units and service personnel that were engaged in taking Avdeyevka acted heroically and deserve top decorations, awards and words of gratitude. The liberation of the village of Krynki on Dniepers left bank is also a job well-done. We have always acted and should act with regard to POWs in strict compliance with international law and conventions. As for the deployment of nuclear weapons in outer space that the West has been talking about lately, our position is clear and transparent: we have always categorically opposed this. We urge all parties to honour all nuclear weapons agreements; we have repeatedly suggested stepping up this joint work. We have never been against holding talks. This is true for both Ukraine and for strategic stability in the world. We do not rule anything out, and we will not give away anything, but we have to sort out what the Western nations actually want. They generally want unilateral advantage, but they wont get it. WtR The state has stepped in to help fund projects to combat hunger in Juneau County and promote purchasing food from local farmers. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, or DATCP, committed $180,000 to the countys Aging and Disability Resource Center, or ADRC, as part of a $1.5 million series of nine statewide grants to address food insecurity. Grant-funded food will be distributed through Juneau Countys home-delivered meal program for seniors, as well as community events. DATCPs recent series of grants is called the Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance Program, which is designed to support local food producers along with addressing hunger. The grant will be used to strengthen local food systems, support Wisconsin Farmers and distribute fresh nutritious foods to underserved rural communities which includes all of the communities of Juneau County, Gina Laack, the county ADRC director, said in an email. There will be pop-up events held throughout the county in the upcoming months that will also distribute the local produce to community members. Grant funding will help add fresh vegetables, meats and fruits to meals delivered to homebound seniors through the countys Senior Nutrition Program, Laack added, along with supporting local farmers through area food sourcing. The Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance Program was developed during the fall of 2022 as a nearly $3 million cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agricultures Agricultural Marketing Service, according to the DATCP website. A release announcing the nine grants said the program is designed to support the purchase of Wisconsin grown, raised, or minimally processed food and distribute it at no cost to underserved communities in Wisconsin. 1974 After a vacancy for more than a year the members of the First United Presbyterian Church of Columbus welcomed their new pastor, the Rev. David Black, who relocated from Iowa. Wisconsin Synod Lutheran Schools sent their Pioneer Boys groups to participate in a Klondike Derby of outdoor events at Zion Lutheran School. 1984 Acting Mayor Peter Kaland was appointed as Columbus Mayor and served until the April elections in 1985. Kaland began his duties at the same time Donald Yecke assumed the position of city administrator. Volunteers at the Columbus Fire Department in 1983 responded to 35 alarms in the city and 26 in the rural area according to Fire Chief Jim Boness. 1994 The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce held a First Dollar presentation at Maloneys Jewelry Store at 127 W. James St. Kelly Maloney, reopened the family business that had closed several years ago upon his fathers retirement. The Columbus Downtown Development Corporation received a special mention for the public-private-financed downtown street lighting project on Ludington Street at the Main Street Awards Reception. Main Street coordinator Heidi Poser said the project was done in conjunction with the 1993 reconstruction of the downtown streets. 2004 A portion of the proceeds from the movie Broke was donated to the Columbus Relay for Life/American Cancer Society. The movie was filmed in Columbus and featured Columbus actors and local businesses. The directors of the film were Andy Basler, Craig Sauer, and Mitch Dhein, all three local residents. The Columbus newspaper was first published in 1855, called the Columbus Journal. It became the Columbus Transcript in November 1864 and on Sept. 10, 1868, the Columbus Democrat. On Jan. 7, 1938, the name was changed back to the Columbus Journal. Less than two years later it became the Columbus Journal-Republican when the Columbus Journal and the Columbus Republican consolidated, the Columbus Republican beginning publication in 1968. In January 1994 the name changed back to the Columbus Journal. Follow on Facebook at Columbus, WI Historical Society, email columbuswiareahistory.com or visit columbuswiareahistory.com. The Columbus WI Area Historical Society is looking for a home for its museum. If anyone has ideas on where to locate, contact David Komarck-Bennett, society president. UW-Madison must accept all Wisconsin high school students who finish in the top 5% of their class, and other UW system colleges must admit students who finish in the top 10% of their class under legislation Gov. Tony Evers signed Tuesday. The new law is one of several required under a deal brokered between legislative Republicans and UW system President Jay Rothman that authorizes about $800 million for the UW system in exchange for the reclassification of several diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, positions. In a statement, Evers said the new law will help bolster the states workforce and that to make sure it can meet the needs of the 21st Century means working to keep our states homegrown talent right here in Wisconsin. Our UW System is a critical partner in this work as a major economic driver and a critical resource for building our states next-generation workforce by helping train and retain the talented students we already have here in Wisconsin, Evers said. The UW systems Board of Regents in December approved the deal, which raises wages for about 35,000 UW system staff and funds several construction projects, including a new engineering building for UW-Madison. In addition to reclassifying 43 DEI staff as student success employees, other concessions include the UW system instituting a three-year hiring moratorium on new administrators and DEI employees, and eliminating from admissions applications any diversity statements, which often serve as an opportunity to describe an applicants experience and understanding of diversity and equity issues. The deal hinges on lawmakers approving many provisions that require approval by the Legislature and governor, including the law Evers signed Tuesday. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War Senate Republicans rejected four of Gov. Tony Evers appointments to the UW Hospital Board and state natural resources board Tuesday, leading the Democratic governor to promptly appoint four replacements. Unfortunately, with these legislative Republicans, bipartisanship and common sense always seem to take two steps forward and two steps back, and that trend continued today when Senate Republicans took up yet another group of exceptionally qualified citizen appointees and fired them for simply doing their jobs, Evers said in a statement. The Senate rejected former Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton, former Rep. Sondy Pope of Mount Horeb, and former Wisconsin Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals president Candice Owley, appointees to the UW Hospital Board, known formally as the UW Hospital and Clinics Authority. The chamber also rejected Evers appointment of Todd Ambs to the states natural resources policy board. GOP lawmakers did not offer a reason for rejecting the UW Hospital Board appointees, but Republican members of the Senate Health Committee last year questioned the appointees about their views on abortion policy. Ambs served as deputy secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources before retiring in December 2021. He was appointed by Evers to fill one of the seats left vacant after Senate Republicans fired four members of the board in October. Republicans have taken aim at Ambs for online criticism he made in the past of the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump. We are asking (Evers) to send us appointees who are willing to work with all, Sen. Mary Felzkowski, R-Irma, said before the vote to reject Ambs appointment. In a statement, Ambs said the argument that he cannot work with Republicans is patently false. I know how to work in a bipartisan manner, Ambs said. The majority party in the Wisconsin State Legislature does not. In fact, they seem to think that bipartisan is some sort of lethal virus because they avoid it like the plague. Appointments for Owley and Ambs were rejected along party lines. Felzkowski and Sens. Rob Cowles, R-Green Bay, and Joan Ballweg, R-Markesan, joined Democratic lawmakers in voting against firing Lawton. Sen. John Jagler, R-Watertown, and Cowles voted against rejecting Popes appointment. Senate Republicans have now fired 13 of Evers appointees. Evers said the efforts to oppose his appointees upend basic functions of democracy, obstruct the peaceful and respectful transfer of power, and threaten, intimidate, and even baselessly fire individuals who may not share their political beliefs or who dare to publicly disagree with them. Shortly after Tuesdays vote, Evers appointed former Port Washington High School teacher Deb Dassow to the natural resources board. He also appointed Ryan Neibauer, political director with IBEW Local 494, and former state Reps. Deb Kolste and Donna Seidel to the UW Hospital Board. While todays decision is a disappointment, I know that the individuals who are taking up these positions will similarly perform to the highest standards of public service Wisconsinites expect, Evers said. Today in history: Feb. 20 1907: Theodore Roosevelt 1938: Anthony Eden 1962: John Glenn 1998:Tara Lipinski 2005: Sandra Dee 2012: Dmitry Medvedev 2012: John Glenn 2021: Naomi Osaka 2021: United Airlines 2022: Russia Ukraine War We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form FILE - Duane "Keffe D" Davis, who is accused of orchestrating the 1996 slaying of hip-hop music icon Tupac Shakur, appears in court for a hearing at the Regional Justice Center in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. The former Los Angeles-area gang leader Davis has hired a private attorney to represent him ahead of his murder trial scheduled this summer. Davis dismissed court-appointed lawyers and hired criminal defense attorney Carl Arnold, according to a court filing posted Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (Rachel Aston/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP, Pool, File) A woman holds a mask depicting the faces of Shiri Bibas and her sons Kfir and Ariel, Israelis who are being held hostage in the Gaza Strip by the Hamas militant group, during a protest demanding the release of the hostages from Hamas captivity, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024. The activists participated in a performance called "Sorry we were kidnapped," Participants wore masks with the faces of hostages in a desperate plea to return the approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty) Jordan Parker is a breaking news reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. He graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2022 with a degree in journalism. During his time there, he spent three years as a reporter and editor for the university's award-winning student newspaper, The State Hornet. He spent his senior year of college serving as The Hornet's first Black editor in chief, leading the organization to two Pacemaker awards and several other national honors from the Associated Collegiate Press. When he's not chasing down a story, he likes watching movies, traveling and trying new restaurants. He can be reached at Jordan.Parker@sfchronicle.com. This undated photo released by the Texas Dept. of Public Safety shows Audrii Cunningham. Texas authorities said Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, they were planning to give the public significant updates in the search for 11-year-old Cunningham, who has been missing since she failed to get on a bus for school last week. Cityside CEO and co-founder Lance Knobel stands inside the Berkeleyside office in Berkeley on Feb. 12. Berkeleyside is one of a number of nonprofit newsrooms that got a grant from OpenAI to study how to use artificial intelligence technology in journalism. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle AI will destroy journalism. AI will bring journalism into a new era. In truth, it may do a bit of both. When the New York Times sued OpenAI instead of accepting a check to license its archives to train future versions of ChatGPT, it was a different tactic than other companies had taken. After all, publishers including the Associated Press and Politico owner Axel Springer had struck licensing deals with the company without much fuss. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The New York Times sued OpenAI and its largest investor, Microsoft, in December, saying their use of its copyrighted material to train chatbots threatened its livelihood and revenue streams and that of an already struggling journalism industry. Some technologists, outlets and journalists are still experimenting with the technology and its uncanny ability to summarize, rewrite and produce content. But some longtime journalists disdain the practice, fearful in part that it will further damage a struggling industry and its finances while undermining the already eroded notion of news articles as sources of fact. Artificial intelligence giants like OpenAI have portrayed their technology, and cash, as potential saviors for an industry wracked by seemingly endless layoffs. But at stake in the battle between publishers and AI companies may be the future of the industry itself. In a response to the lawsuit, OpenAI said in a blog post that its chatbots help with time-intensive journalistic work, such as analyzing public records or translating stories into other languages, among other benefits. But the Times lawsuit and other legal actions, including a proposed class action brought against Google and its AI technology over similar copyright issues, make it clear that there could be significant legal restraints preventing those companies from immediately disrupting the news industry. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At least for now. Journalists like longtime Los Angeles Times crime reporter Jill Leovy, who is a plaintiff in the suit against Google brought by the Clarkson Law Firm, see the copyright issue as a fundamental violation of the reporter-source covenant. I feel that copyright protects a process that can only happen through human exchanges, Leovy, whose 2015 book Ghettoside was the culmination of years of reporting and source building in Los Angeles most violent neighborhoods. The lawsuit alleges her book was used as training data by Google for its AI programs without permission. I feel like its a violation of my sources who are vulnerable people, Leovy said. Its a violation of the living work that I put in. The days and nights of my life for years on end. Google General Counsel Halimah DeLaine Prado said in a statement the lawsuit was without merit, claiming the companys AI models are trained on public data. Advertisement Article continues below this ad American law supports using public information to create new beneficial uses and we will continue to create innovative and helpful products, DeLaine Prado said. Google has also released tools for reporters, such as Pinpoint, which uses AI and search technologies to parse large quantities of text, audio, image and video files. The company said it was in the early stages of building tools for reporters aimed at supporting their work not replacing them. Still, the technology could completely change how journalism is produced and consumed in the coming years, said David Caswell, who previously ran the BBCs News Lab. The changes are likely to become so significant that the entire information ecosystem of which journalism is a part becomes something else, Caswell said, comparing those changes to the disruptions wrought on the news industry by social media, or the internet itself. Sometimes called generative search, the technology is already convincing some tech columnists of its usefulness by using AI to summarize existing news articles, images, videos and more to produce a one-time summation of all that information to answer a specific question. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Google and some startups are already testing versions of the technology. Hearst Communications, which own the Chronicle and other newspapers, is already experimenting with generative AI to enhance its journalism, including using the technology to improve search engine and keyword optimization for news articles, grammar and style editing, and some summarization and research tasks, among others. No content is published without human review. AI-powered search that overtakes old-fashioned reporting and writing is likely years away, if it materializes at all, said Caswell. In the immediate future, he sees AI changing how news is gathered, with programs culling and transcribing every hearing and event into easily searchable databases among other tools that will make reporting less time consuming. Summarizing, drafting, editing and rewriting stories using AI will also continually become part of how journalists work, he said. That is partly how Microsoft, which has sunk billions into OpenAI, said in February it plans to collaborate with news site Semafor and other organizations. Microsoft said it would work with the site to help its journalists with tasks like research, finding sources and translation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad OpenAI said it would also work with journalism nonprofits and graduate schools to study how to integrate AI into their work and to train journalists on the technology. OpenAI gave $5 million to the American Journalism Project and made the same amount available in credits to use its software. One local purveyor of nonprofit news, Cityside the parent company of Oaklandside, Berkeleyside and Richmondside is looking into other ways of using the grant money disbursed from the American Journalism Project from OpenAI to fuel its mission. There are lots of people that are working on how generative AI can be applied to some journalism programs, said Lance Knobel, the CEO and co-founder of Cityside. Some terrible things are going to emerge. Some good things are going to come out of it. Knoble said the organization is sketching out how to use the $25,000 grant from AJP to help with learning more about donors to boost fundraising. ChatGPT could then be used to craft a personalized email reaching out to that person, without that being creepy, he added. That would help us and help our field a lot. Other functions, like writing and distributing newsletters to bump up subscriber engagement, could also be done by smaller organizations without the people power to do so, said Trei Brundrett, a senior adviser working with the American Journalism Project. The way that most media organizations are thinking about this is what its potential use cases are across the entire organization to boost fundraising, membership and email newsletters, he said. Research help and newsletters aside, Leovy, the Ghettoside author, said using the tech to produce journalism is a simplistic view of what the work actually entails. IP Survey Indicates Significant Ni-Cu-PGE Upside Potential Perth, Feb 21, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Raiden Resources Limited ( ASX:RDN ) ( YM4:FRA ) is pleased to update shareholders on the results of the Induced Polarisation orientation survey completed by First Quantum Minerals in December 2023, over the B2 Ni-Cu-PGE deposit area on the Mt Sholl Project. Highlights - First Quantum Minerals funded geophysical Induced Polarisation ("IP") survey indicates mineralisation extends to depth east of the B2 deposit - The IP survey anomalies correlate with Raiden's modelled JORC Exploration Target mineralisation extensions1 - Anomalies defined through this survey have not been drill tested and represent a significant potential for definition of further mineralisation - IP data confirms 1km long Induced Polarisation (IP) chargeability anomaly, which correlates with modelled SW plunge of B2 mineralisation o Southern cross-section identifies chargeability anomaly within 150m of surface with no previous drilling in this area o Northern cross-section chargeability anomaly under explored, only shallow drilling to date over the defined anomaly - The limits of the survey cover only a small portion of the Mt Sholl intrusion. Further work is planned to evaluate the entire intrusion, including B1 and A1 deposit areas Mr Dusko Ljubojevic, Managing Director of Raiden commented: "The recent geophysical orientation survey carried out by First Quantum has indicated a significant potential for further mineralisation over the B2 deposit on the Mt Sholl project. What is of significance is that the geophysical survey indicates that the mineralisation extends to depth, which the Raiden team previously modelled and which was the basis for our JORC Exploration target released along with the maiden JORC resource in 2023. We hope that further geophysical surveys will confirm and extend the potential mineralisation throughout the entire deposit and drill testing will confirm that the Mt Sholl project is a strategic base metal asset in the Pilbara." First Quantum Minerals Program and Results First Quantum completed the IP survey over the northern extent of the Mt Sholl B2 Ni-CuPGE deposit utilising a gradient array method and then following up on the defined anomalous zone with two dipole-dipole sections. The aim of this IP survey was to trial the method over the known mineralisation to define the potential response within the disseminated style of mineralisation. The results from the initial 3.8km2 gradient array grid survey outlined a 1,000m x 200m chargeability anomaly which is offset to the east of the currently drill defined B2 Ni-CuPGE mineral resource area1 (Figure 1*). This chargeability response is hypothesised to define a potential zone of disseminated mineralisation, but drill testing will be required to prove this in the future. Following on from the definition of this anomalous zone, First Quantum used the dipole - dipole IP survey method across two sections, Line_2000N & Line_2950N, to further define the chargeability response. These two follow up dipole-dipole IP sections have defined chargeability responses that appear to correlate well with the interpreted SW plunge of the B2 mineralisation. The southern dipole-dipole section identified an anomalously chargeable feature located within 150m of the surface (Figure 2*). It should be noted that while there is historical drilling collared over the northern part of this chargeability, it was all terminated at very shallow depths and has not tested the shallowly plunging chargeability anomaly. Likewise in the southern zone of the chargeability anomaly no drilling has tested this new target area. First Quantum are currently planning additional work over the Mt Sholl Ni-Cu-PGE deposits, and which may include a ground electromagnetic ("EM") survey. The objective of the EM survey is to define further potential zones of massive sulphide mineralisation which are know to be hosted within the lower tenor disseminated mineralisation zones on the Mt Sholl deposits. *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/F6345XVY About Raiden Resources Limited Raiden Resources Limited (ASX:RDN) (DAX:YM4) is a dual listed exploration and development company which is advancing the Mt Sholl Nickel-Copper-Cobalt-Palladium deposit in the Pilbara. The Company's portfolio host metals and commodities considered critical for the energy and electrification revolution. Related Companies Encouraging Iron Ore Samples up to 58% Fe in Pilbara Perth, Feb 21, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - QX Resources Limited ( ASX:QXR ) is pleased to announce that a detailed sampling program has been planned for the Company's Western Shaw iron ore project, in the Pilbara iron ore province of Western Australia. At Western Shaw, previous reconnaissance rock chip samples have returned up to 58.5% Fe from outcrop, which extends over a 4km distance. A Banded Iron Formation (BIF) with chert horizons was sampled over 4.4km but extends over 8km within the Western Shaw leases (E45/6107, E45/4960), with southern extensions held by the FMG group and Rio Tinto (E45/5589, E45/6326). QXR has undertaken a comprehensive review of prior exploration over Western Shaw with the iron ore potential only having been recently assessed as the area had been targeted for pegmatites by QXR. Potential exists for enriched surface iron ore over BIF sequences. The Pilbara has been an exploration target for enriched iron ore as DSO (Direct Shipping Ore). A new sampling program of 250m spaced rockchip traverses over the outcropping BIF sequence is planned over the full 8km outcrops in the coming quarter, followed by costeans to better identify drilling targets. Previous work had been conducted by Atlas Iron over 15 years ago with rockchip results up to 62.3%Fe+ (Table 2*). However recent sampling indicates further untested potential to the south. Atlas had previously intersected up to 57.4% Fe in RC drilling (0-2m, WSRC016) + (Table 2*) within strongly oxidized goethitic ironstone but Atlas' planned reconnaissance drill program was never completed, according to their WA mines dept reports. QXR's rock chip samples display 3km of untested strike length to the south of previous drilling and rockchip sampling. QXR Managing Director, Stephen Promnitz, said: "Iron ore rockchip sample results with grades above 57% Fe are rare to locate this past decade and may lead to DSO potential if results continue to show promise. It's an exciting opportunity within our leases surrounded by majors in the sector. New work could show the potential for something significant, so we are excited to get this detailed sampling program underway." *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/E4NGD6I5 About QX Resources Ltd QX Resources Limited (ASX:QXR) is focused on exploration and development of battery minerals, with hard rock lithium assets in a prime location of Western Australia (WA), and gold assets in Queensland. The aim is to connect end users (battery, cathode and car makers) with QXR, an experienced explorer/developer of battery minerals, with an expanding mineral exploration project portfolio and solid financial support. Lithium portfolio: QXR's lithium strategy is centred around WA's prolific Pilbara province, where it has acquired a controlling interest in four projects through targeted M&A - all of which sit in strategic proximity to some of Australia's largest lithium deposits and mines. Across the Pilbara, QXR's regional lithium tenement package (both granted or under application) now spans more than 350 km2. Gold portfolio: QXR is also developing two Central Queensland gold projects - Lucky Break and Belyando - through an earn-in agreement with Zamia Resources Pty Ltd. Both gold projects are strategically located within the Drummond Basin, a region that has a >6.5moz gold endowment. Related Companies Melbourne, Feb 21, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Lithium Universe Limited ( ASX:LU7 ) ( ESMAF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce that as part of its strategy to address the Lithium conversion capacity gap in the North American market, the company has successfully executed an option agreement (Option Agreement) to acquire a commercial property strategically located within the Becancour Waterfront Industrial Park (BWIP). The site is Lot 22 of the Parc industriel et portuaire de Becancour, Becancour, Quebec, Canada, with an area estimated to be 276,423 square metres (the Site). Video summary of the Company's proposed Becancour Lithium Refinery location: https://investorhub.lithiumuniverse.com/link/XyMO4r Closing the Lithium Conversion Gap The East Coast of North America is set to witness a substantial surge in battery manufacturing, with over 20 major battery manufacturers planning to deploy an estimated 900GW of battery capacity by 2028. By 2030, Georgia, Kentucky, and Michigan are poised to dominate electric vehicle (EV) battery production in the United States, joined by key players such as Kansas, North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee. These states aim to collectively manufacture between 97 and 136 gigawatt hours of EV batteries annually. To meet the escalating demand for EVs, North America's EV battery manufacturing capacity will skyrocket from 55 gigawatt-hours in 2021 to nearly 1,000 gigawatt-hours by 2030, requiring an investment exceeding $40 billion. This strategic expansion is expected to support the production of 10 to 13 million all-electric vehicles annually by 2030, positioning the U.S. as a formidable global EV competitor. Additionally, Canada's recent focus on investing in battery plants, backed by collabo rations with Volkswagen, Stellantis, LG Energy Solution, and Northvolt, aims to safeguard its auto sector, potentially creating 250,000 jobs and contributing $48 billion annually to the economy by 2030. The industry encounters a significant challenge in establishing a reliable supply chain, especially due to limited access to lithium converters in North America. The region seeks to decrease dependence on China and Chinese companies, aligning with both commercial and national security goals. Presently, Chinese companies dominate the global market for lithium converters and refining capacity. Similarly, Canada, acknowledging the significance of energy security, has intensified efforts to reduce Chinese involvement in the sector as part of a "decoupling" or "de-risking" strategy, mirroring the actions taken by the United States. The issue lies in the scarcity of independent lithium converters planned for construction in North America, potentially stemming from a lack of expertise or a series of recent failures and delayed startups in the sector. A significant gap in lithium conversion and processing looms in North America. Assuming the planned battery manufacturing capacity of 900 GW by 2028, using a ratio of 850g lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) per KWh, the Company estimates that 800,000t of LCE per annum will be required to satisfy demand in North America. The Lithium Universe strategy is to bridge this gap by leveraging a proven track record in constructing such converters, with the Lithium Dream team being crucial to the success of this strategy. Option Agreement The execution of the Option Agreement follows from the Company's announcement that Hatch Ltd (Hatch) has been appointed to undertake an engineering study for the design of a multi-purpose battery-grade lithium carbonate refinery, which will form part of the Company Quebec Lithium Processing Hub (QLPH) strategy. The BWIP is the preferred site for the Company's 16,000 tpa Lithium Carbonate Refinery, validated through a comprehensive location option study conducted by Hatch. Investissement Quebec has played an integral role in supporting the Company in its objective to secure this strategic location for the Company's QLPH strategy. The execution of the Option Agreement for the Site is another important step in the Company's fast-tracking strategy to become a producer of lithium in Quebec, Canada. The land acquisition hinges on securing project finance for the Lithium Refinery Project. The Company isn't required to raise funds specifically for buying the land. If the project finance for the Lithium Refinery Project falls through, the Company retains the option to withdraw from the agreement. About the Site The Company's Site is strategically situated in Becancour, just south of Trois-Rivieres, and is optimally positioned between Montreal and Quebec City. Positioned near a major highway, the site seamlessly connects to the extensive North American highway network. Additionally, the facility benefits from daily service by the Canadian National Railway (CN), enabling cross-continental transportation from east to west and north to south, linking key ports on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The Port of Becancour, operational all year-round, boasts a water depth of 10.67 meters, accommodating vessels of varying sizes. It features a pier extending 1,130 meters into the St. Lawrence River, equipped with 5 berths and a roll-on/roll-off ramp, further solidifying its strategic fit as the location for the Company's proposed Lithium Carbonate Refinery due to its ability to easily access international spodumene supply whilst the Canadian internal spodumene supply develops. The Site stands at the intersection of hydro-electrical distribution networks, making the BWIP a highly reliable centre for low-cost hydroelectric power in Quebec. In addition, the park features a co-generation plant generating 550 MW, reinforcing its appeal to the Company. Additionally, the BWIP benefits from a robust infrastructure, including a 2400 kPa high-pressure line and an underground distribution network, ensuring a seamless supply to user companies. Moreover, the park offers access to both potable and industrial water, as well as advanced industrial waste facilities. Furthermore, the Becancour Facility hosts the General Motors (GM) and Korea-based POSCO Chemicals' new CAD$500 million cathode active material (CAM) factory forecasted for first production in 2025. In addition, the CAD$1.2 billion Ford/EcoPro BM Cathode factory with a proposed production of 45,000 tonnes of CAM per year and slated to start production in 2026 also is located within the BWIP. Both CAM factories have commenced construction mid-2023 are within 1km of the Company's proposed Lithium Refinery location. Only 140km southwest of Becancour and more recently, Swedish battery developer and manufacturer Northvolt is set to build a wholly integrated lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery gigafactory in Quebec, Canada. This facility will have an annual cell manufacturing capacity of 60 gigawatt hours (GWh). Proposed Use of the Site The intended use of the Site will be to host the Company's proposed lithium carbonate refinery. As previously outlined under the Company's QLPH strategy, a lithium carbonate refinery, rather than lithium hydroxide refinery, has been selected due to the widespread use of the concentrate in the fast-growing Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. LFP batteries are increasingly used in EV applications due to their lower costs, longer shelf life and superior stability compared with lithium hydroxide. In addition, having regard to the Lithium Universe Board and management expertise in lithium carbonate processing, the Site is considered to have the necessary attributes to be a success of the Company's proposed facilities. Figure 2* shows the layout of the first 16,000 tpa lithium carbonate refinery. The site is large enough to cater for future expansions, with a further two trains of 16,000 tpa being able to fit on the site, See Figure 5*. Key Terms of the Option Agreement The Option Agreement is with the Societe du Parc Industriel et Portuaire de Becancour (SPIPB), a company incorporated in Quebec, pursuant to which SPIPB has granted the Company an exclusive and irrevocable right under the Option Agreement to acquire the Site. The key terms and conditions of the Option Agreement are set out below: - it is subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals; - the expected purchase price is $CAD 12.6 million (Purchase Price). The final price is subject to a survey; - the Purchase Price is to be increased by the cost of any infrastructure works; - option term of 36 months from the date of signing of the Option Agreement; - the first option fee of $CAD 63,135 per month (Option Fee) for a period of 30 months from July 2024. The Option Fee reduces the Purchase Price. Chairman Iggy Tan said "This is just another positive step forward for the Company as we secure this key landholding in the most attractive emerging battery-focussed jurisdiction. Quebec's low-cost hydroelectricity, high environmental standards, and educated workforce, as well as the location's logistical advantages, including a deepwater port and easy rail access to the rest of North America, were key factors in the decision. One of the reasons we like the site is that it gives us the opportunity to expand. We have the ability to do that if necessary." *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/SG7K9538 To Watch the Video Interview, please visit: https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/P9030UD9 About Lithium Universe Ltd Lithium Universe Ltd (ASX:LU7) (OTCMKTS:ESMAF), headed by industry trail blazer, Iggy Tan, and the Lithium Universe team has a proven track record of fast-tracking lithium projects, demonstrated by the successful development of the Mt Cattlin spodumene project for Galaxy Resources Limited. Instead of exploring for the sake of exploration, Lithium Universe's mission is to quickly obtain a resource and construct a spodumene-producing mine in Quebec, Canada. Unlike many other Lithium exploration companies, Lithium Universe possesses the essential expertise and skills to develop and construct profitable projects. Related Companies A stretch of recreational vehicles with people living inside are parked on Bernal Heights Boulevard in San Francisco earlier this month. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle When neighbors started complaining about the vans and trailers that park more or less permanently on a swooping road atop San Franciscos Bernal Hill, city officials scrambled to find a solution. It turned out they already had one. Twenty-seven years ago, the city banned overnight parking along most of the south side of Bernal Heights Boulevard, a curb now packed with scruffy recreational vehicles. But parking control officers rarely, if ever, enforced it, having apparently forgotten the ban existed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Decades of lenience will soon come to an end, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breeds office said, when crews put up signs to restrict people from parking and squatting for long periods. The road, flanked by houses on one side and a grassy hill on the other, now harbors more than a dozen RVs. All appear to have people living inside. Theyre an eyesore, said Eric Burgos, a Bernal resident who parked his Toyota at the base of the boulevard on a recent afternoon. Leaning against his car, Burgos gazed up at the row of dilapidated campers and shook his head in resignation. Bernal Heights is but one battleground in a city and a region where RVs have become hulking symbols of the homelessness crisis, dominating stretches of uninterrupted curb space. Vehicle encampments have spread along roads near Ocean Beach, Lake Merced and industrial pockets of the Bayview, aggravating residents who say van inhabitants dump sewage and illegally plug into the electrical grid. Many call the oversized vehicles a blight; others consider them the byproduct of a city with too much free parking and scarce affordable housing. For years, San Francisco officials have responded by combining parking restrictions with a softer approach: city-run lots equipped with showers, Port-a-Potties, electrical charging stations and homelessness case managers. Ultimately, the goal was to shepherd participants into supportive housing. And the sites helped a lot of people make that transition, said Sam Dodge, director of street response coordination for the Department of Emergency Management. But San Francisco also encountered problems, ranging from community opposition when the city tried to open new vehicle triage centers, to space limitations as the lots quickly filled. And some people living in mobile homes on public roads simply decline the help. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Armando Bravo Martinez sits outside his RV to have his morning coffee with his dog, Audrey, as people pass by near Bernal Hill in San Francisco on Feb. 13. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle A lot of them arent interested, said Breeds spokesperson, Jeff Cretan. He acknowledged many people living in RVs do not consider themselves homeless, even though San Francisco includes them in its annual homeless count. The city cant compel anyone to accept help, Cretan noted. Officials can, however, use parking enforcement to clear the curbs. As a result, RVs rousted from one neighborhood merely gravitate to another. The ones on Bernal Heights Boulevard appeared during the pandemic, residents said, roughly a year after the city opened its first triage center near the Balboa BART Station and after the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency restricted parking of oversize vehicles next to a reservoir in Portola, which borders Bernal Heights to the southeast. Around that time, more and more people were purchasing campers at auctions, considering them a last line of defense against street homelessness. They were never here before, but now its become an RV park, said Ken Baker, who was jogging up Bernal Heights Boulevard on a bright February afternoon. Baker and his partner, Eric Chen, are fed up with the vans, saying occupants allow their dogs to roam unleashed and launch home improvement projects that spill onto the sidewalk. A few of the vans are up on blocks, implying theyre not likely to move anytime soon. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Once the parking signs go up on Bernal Heights Boulevard, the city will allow a grace period before citing or towing the RVs, Cretan said. Outreach workers will offer services and parking at Candlestick Point Recreation Area, a triage center that opened in 2022, after the one at Balboa BART closed to make way for an affordable-housing development. City staff have made this pitch to the occupants of Bernal Heights Boulevard before and encountered resistance. You feel like youre being forced into a refugee camp, said Armando Bravo Martinez, describing the Candlestick Point center as a great idea for policymakers, but not for those who have to live there. Martinez has lived on the boulevard for two years, in a boxy Ford van with stained glass window film and a bronze nameplate: Aristocrat Miniliner. He bought the Miniliner from a friend after losing his job in 2022, and he said it had all the amenities he needed. Inside the cramped space, Martinez cooks with an air fryer, checks his email on a fold-out desk and uses his sleeping berth as a shelf. He locks his door with a latch and bungee cord, creating a safer and more insulated shelter than a tent on the sidewalk. I saw it as a way of not becoming homeless, said Martinez, who lived on the streets in the early 2000s and has tried to avoid slipping back. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Other RV dwellers in Bernal Heights said they had jobs but didnt make quite enough to afford rent in San Francisco. One fled a bad roommate situation; another returned from a long hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, during which he decided to live in a van. Martinez was stunned to hear that San Francisco leaders had suddenly uncovered a long unenforced parking law that was tailored to boot him out. I guess I would have to move, he said. I dont want to break any laws. On the west side of the city, officials are trying to disperse oversized vehicles from Lower Great Highway another thoroughfare overrun by RV sprawl by reconfiguring the roadway. Last month, board directors for the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency approved a design that converted all the curb space on Lower Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Kirkham Street from parallel to angled parking. Bulky trucks and campers would no longer fit. There were signs posted for about 15 years on Lower Great Highway to ban vehicles of a certain size, but the whole stretch was still filled with (large) vehicles parked there permanently, said Supervisor Joel Engardio, who represents the area and advocated for the redesign. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It became a turnover issue, Engardio continued. People need to park there on weekends for activities like senior yoga, and they couldnt. The road has to be shared equally it cant just be monopolized by someone who wants to live there in their RV. Residents of Bernal Heights say they welcome the newly revived parking restrictions on Bernal Hill. Most dont expect inconvenience from the overnight ban, since their homes have garages and driveways, in addition to ample parking on side streets. And any difficulty caused by the time limit would be outweighed, they said, by the benefit of not having to live next to a trailer campground. I think the overriding reaction is that we dont want to see these people hurt, or evicted, or disadvantaged, said Tom Donald, who lives in the area and takes morning walks up Bernal Hill. But this affects our quality of life, he added. Donald admitted hes somewhat skeptical that the RV dwellers will leave, given that several of the campers are on blocks and appear to be inoperable. Those that can drive away have limited places to go, he said. Cretan said there are spots available at the Candlestick Point lot, along with another safe parking and cabin site opening this year at 2177 Jerrold Ave. in the Bayview. Armando Bravo Martinez holds his dog, Audrey, in his RV on Bernal Heights Boulevard in San Francisco on Feb. 13. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle Safe parking sites do work, said Supervisor Hillary Ronen, whose district includes Bernal. Theyre just expensive, she added, and we dont have enough of them. She believes the only real solution for people living in vehicles or any other form of temporary dwelling is for the federal government to intervene and build subsidized public housing. Despite the citys pledges to help, Martinez said hes reluctant to give up the freedom he enjoys living on Bernal Hill, in a hermitage within a small mobile home community. Theres a certain way of life that goes along with this, said Martinez, who has a well-established breakfast routine with a man who lives in the camper next door. The neighbor brings Mexican sweet bread while Martinez brews coffee, his pet Chihuahua yapping at his heels. BlackZone Mobiles, Indias leading mobile and wearables manufacturer has announced its strategic alliance with the popular Indian Bollywood actress, Mouni Roy, who will represent Blackzones feature phones and smartwatches categories as its distinguished brand ambassador. This partnership aims to enhance BlackZone's market presence, celebrated for its innovative designs, cutting-edge technology, and strategic pricing. Mouni Roy will play a pivotal role in BlackZone's advertising campaigns, branding endeavours, and social media activities over the coming year. Karan Thukral, Chairman of BlackZone Mobiles, stated, "It is with great pride that we announce our collaboration with Bollywood Icon Mouni Roy, an actor par excellence of todays times. Ms. Roy's vibrant personality and influential social media footprint are perfectly aligned with our mission to forge a deeper connection with audiences across India. Her grace and sophistication perfectly encapsulate our brand ethos. A proud participant in the "Make in India" initiative, BlackZone is dedicated to expanding its reach beyond urban centers, making inroads into smaller cities and towns across the country. Kannav Thukral, Managing Director of BlackZone Mobiles, remarked, Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our sleek designs and the advanced features of our products. Each BlackZone product stands out for its uniqueness. As a 'Make in India' advocate, we are focused on creating exceptional mobile devices that combine superior quality with affordability, ranging from our budget-friendly 4G feature phones to our stylish and practical smartwatches, all of which showcase the pinnacle of Indian manufacturing prowess. Situated in Sonipat, Haryana, BlackZone's expansive manufacturing facility highlights its dedication to promoting local employment and propelling technological innovation within the region. The domestic production of feature phones and smartwatches is a reflection of BlackZone's ambition to spearhead India's tech revolution. BlackZone is more than just a brand to me; it epitomizes style itself. Each mobile offers an array of vibrant colours, features distinctive characteristics, shared Mouni Roy. The partnership between Mouni Roy and BlackZone signifies a pivotal moment in the brand's evolution, emphasizing the critical role of nurturing indigenous talent and innovation in shaping the future. Collective Consulting is proud to launch Invcent.com (pronounced INCENT - the V is silent), a global marketplace SSSP (self-serve supply platform), which shall fulfil the TV inventory buying needs of agencies and clients. Speaking on the platform launch, Founder- Alok Rakshit, We are at the cusp of several transformative shifts that are happening in the ever-dynamic media space. With the help of INVCENT.COM, linear mediums can experience a rapid digitalization process, leading to accelerated growth. This inventory central platform will assist media buyers and clients in discovering new publishers, in existing as well as media-dark or unrepresented markets. Due to sheer number of TV channels in India (over 800 plus), media buyers, planners and clients face the challenge of effectively reaching out to these channels or markets. Publishers in search of new clients encounter similar obstacles in both local and international markets. INVCENT.COM simplifies access to the daily inventory and impact properties of publishers and channels. Invcent.com seamlessly integrates with both internal and external APIs of publishers in their respective mediums. It is a secure and transparent platform which shall appeal and aid the buyers and sellers alike, maintaining utmost privacy. The platform would extend itself to digitalise other linear mediums such as radio, print, out-of-home and digitally streaming mediums. The core founding team consists of industry expert Joydeep Ghosh who has pioneered the digitization process for TV commercials delivery in India and is ably supported by Sagar Gholap who has worked extensively with leading media houses. FCB India, part of the FCB Group agencies in India, today announces new creative leadership for its Delhi office. Udayan Chakravorty and Anusheela Saha, ECDs at FCB India, have been promoted to National Creative Directors. Anusheela will also take on the additional role of Head of Design at the agency. With his exceptional creativity and strategic insight, Udayan has delivered work for brands such as Google and Horlicks. Anusheela's passion for design innovation has shaped FCB India's design capabilities on brands such as Horlicks, Uber, Bata, Royal Stag and many more. In their new capacity as National Creative Directors, Udayan and Anusheela will be responsible for driving creative strategy and execution, working closely with the senior management team. As Head of Design, Anusheela will also oversee the implementation of design initiatives across all client projects, ensuring a cohesive and visually compelling brand experience. In addition to this announcement, Swati Bhattacharya will step down from her role as Creative Chairperson for FCB India to take some personal time. Since joining the agency in 2016, Swati's tenure at FCB Group India has been marked by significant contributions that have propelled the agency to new heights. She played a crucial role in shaping the agency's creative reputation and bringing international recognition through path-breaking campaigns, while her keen insights and bold approach to storytelling have left an indelible mark on the organisation, inspiring creativity and pushing boundaries. Swati will remain at the agency until the end of March. Commenting on the announcement, Dheeraj Sinha, Group CEO of FCB Group India and South Asia, said: "It's always a pleasure to see our leaders moving up and taking on greater challenges. Udayan and Anusheela are two creative leaders who have amazing talent and energy, and have continually demonstrated a future-thinking approach. With their enthusiasm and passion for creating globally competitive work for our clients, I am convinced they will help write a new future for FCB India and the FCB Group overall. "We are grateful to Swati, who has played a pivotal role in shaping FCB India's creative direction and fostering a culture of creativity and excellence. She helped put the agency on the global creative map, and we wish her the very best in her future endeavours," Dheeraj continued. GS Caltex India, a leading premium lubricant company, marked its 14th Anniversary in India by launching the 3rd edition of the #GaadiKeDoctor campaign. This campaign, dedicated to the unsung heroes behind the wheel and beneath the hoods, celebrates the invaluable contribution of vehicle mechanics. In recognizing the significance of mechanics in our daily lives, GS Caltex India celebrates 2nd February as 'National Mechanics Day,' to coincide with its 14th anniversary. The company acknowledges and honors mechanics for their pivotal role in ensuring roadworthy and safe vehicles for all. GS Caltex has gained prominence in India for its premium lubricants, catering to both B2B and B2C segments. #YOUTUBE-P0QscQQeE1A# To commemorate this occasion, GS Caltex has released a campaign ad film on Mechanics Day across digital platforms. The campaign emotionally connects with mechanics, portraying their understanding of automobiles as living entities and positioning them as 'Gaadi Ke Doctor.' This campaign serves as an ode to the dedication, resilience, and expertise of mechanics. It recognizes that every turned bolt and diagnosis reflects their skill and unwavering commitment to keeping our wheels turning at all hours. Mechanics, in the eyes of GS Caltex, are not just fixers of machines but architects of reliability, creators of safety, and custodians of memories. As GS Caltex completes 14 years in India, the company wishes to express gratitude to every mechanic in the country. This is the 3rd consecutive year that GS Caltex is celebrating February 2nd, which is their Foundation Day as National Mechanics Day, a day dedicated to appreciating and recognizing the vital role mechanics play in our lives. K Madhu Mohan, General Manager - Marketing, GS Caltex India, shared, Completing 14 years is a glorious feat for any brand. With GS Caltex nearing that milestone, we wanted to celebrate it with grandeur and give back to the mechanic community that makes us who we are. Mechanic's Day is more than a celebration; it's the recognition that mechanics deserve, and GS Caltex is proud to be the pioneer of this movement. So, here's to the grease-streaked hands that work tirelessly, the eyes that keenly inspect, and the hearts that beat for the smooth purr of a finely tuned engine. In every rattle they silence, every engine they revive, they weave a story of reliability, dependability, and trust. The film pays tribute to mechanics' extraordinary dedication, showcasing their commitment around the clock, even during odd hours and emergencies. It captures scenes of mechanics responding to breakdowns, working tirelessly in dimly lit garages, and swiftly coming to the rescue. The narrative emphasizes their commendable nature as guardians of safe travels, ready to address any issue. The film highlights instances where mechanics showcase expertise, restoring vehicles in various challenging situations. Emotional moments underscore the relief and gratitude of those whose journeys are saved by these dedicated professionals. Through powerful visuals and testimonials, the film conveys that mechanics are essential partners in ensuring the safety and reliability of every journey, transcending their role as mere service providers. Jaro Education, India's pioneering Edtech company, once the first mover and now the most trusted in the industry, is set to be prominently featured on Disney+ Hotstar, India's largest premium streaming platform, in the documentary series 'The Indian EdTech Story,' produced by Edstead. The series, now available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, shines a spotlight on the significant impact and achievements of Jaro Education in revolutionizing the educational landscape and transforming the careers of millions of students and professionals across India. The docu-series sheds light on how the education sector is gaining prominence amidst the disruptive influence of technology, which is both powerful and accessible, emphasizing the sector's pivotal role in reshaping the learning landscape and inspiring millions while impacting billions of learners. Ms Ranjita Raman, CEO of Jaro Education, said, Our mission has always been to democratize education and create an ecosystem for lifelong learners, providing them access not only to quality education but also facilitating connections with alumni, thereby expanding their network. Furthermore, our commitment to delivering high-quality education entails embracing the latest and most advanced technologies, such as AI and gamified learning, to enhance the effectiveness of the learning experience. 'The Indian EdTech Story' will enlighten the audience about the evolving nature of education and how individuals can optimize it for their growth and development. Amid the increased media attention throughout the growth and, in some cases, the decline of the Indian EdTech journey, many found themselves prominently featured in popular media. While some were negatively highlighted within the growing community, a determined few chose to work quietly, avoiding the spotlight while consistently focusing on achieving enduring impact and outcomes. The Indian EdTech Story is not merely a documentary series but a proud moment for all EdTech Entrepreneurs who believed in EdTech as an industry. This moment will further evolve EdTech as a sector, achieving many more milestones and significantly impacting the lives of various stakeholders associated with the industry, leading it on a path of glory. Commenting on the release, Shekhar Bhattacharjee, Founder of Edstead, expressed, "The entire objective behind producing this series was to illuminate the transformation of education into an affordable and accessible realm for millions. The series captures the highs and lows of the Edtech sector and underscores its ongoing commitment to creating a positive impact." Jaro Educations remarkable journey, prominently featured in the documentary, bears testimony to the organizations unwavering dedication to providing quality education and leaving a lasting impact on the educational landscape in India. Moreover, the evolution of Jaro Education over time, achieving year-on-year growth and profitability as a bootstrapped organization, is portrayed in the series. This series encapsulates the vision set by visionary entrepreneur Dr. Sanjay Salunkhe and his successful navigation through challenges, being the first-gen entrepreneur to build the empire he dreamt of. Throughout this journey, the employees stood as assets, supporting him through thick and thin. The higher EdTech firm now provides industry-relevant programs in collaboration with the globes finest universities and institutes, including IITs, IIMs, and Ivy League institutions. With a strong focus on delivering high-quality education, Jaro Education has consistently been at the forefront of revolutionizing online learning. Dr. Sanjay Salunkhe, Founder of Jaro Education, expresses, My vision is for everyone in this country to have access to quality education, as I once struggled to attain it, particularly in areas like Tier 2 or 3 cities or villages where many lack access. I believe in the philosophy of consistency over speed and focus on creating value over valuations, maintaining our employees as assets even during tough times. 'The Indian EdTech Story' depicts the untold journey of Jaro Education. The EdTech pioneer believes that the Indian Edtech Story will illuminate the future perception of education, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and the necessity of building an ecosystem for all enthusiastic learners and professionals seeking continuous skill updates to broaden their growth trajectory. In todays digital landscape, the influence of Connected TV (CTV) cannot be overstated. As traditional television viewership evolves and consumers increasingly turn to streaming platforms, the significance of CTV is clear. To disregard its inimitable power is to ignore a pivotal force shaping the future of media consumption. In this two-part series, Adgully explores the inimitable advantages offered by CTV, and the kind of strategies media planners should prioritize to leverage the opportunities presented by the surge in CTV usage. Gen Z and millennials CTV indeed presents a transformative opportunity for brands to engage with audiences in India. And what should Media planners do? They need to delve into the nuances of CTV advertising strategies, and its profound impact on media planning and campaign execution. Media planners must recognise the importance of incorporating TV into their campaign strategies, says Prabhvir Sahmey, Senior Director, Samsung Ads, India. According to him, media planners face a significant learning curve in understanding the unique characteristics of TV compared to other mediums they typically plan for, especially digital media platforms. Engagement can be measured using industry standard and acceptable practices of Lift Studies and cross device conversion tracking, says Sahmey. CTV has cemented its place among GenZ and millennials as the primary screen for content consumption at home, points out Nikhil Kumar, Chief Growth Officer, Mediasmart, an Affle company. He reckons that these audience groups prefer the on-demand viewing flexibility offered by CTV as against the fixed schedule programming on linear television. According to him, advertisers have access to a wealth of high-quality exclusive content that can be leveraged to create compelling ad campaigns. He stresses the importance of recognizing that GenZ and millennials are driven by authentic brand connections. To effectively engage with this target audience, he adds, media planners should focus on both the storytelling and creative aspect as well as harness the power of data-driven technology and insights to drive brand goals - whether it is creating awareness, recall, or driving purchase. Today, consumer journeys are no longer limited to a single device. Any advertising effort, therefore, must speak to the same consumer who exists across devices and re-engage them. Technologies on CTV such as Mediasmarts Household Sync present advertisers with the right tools to target users within a single household with personalized ads, measure results, and even drive them to the nearest store or take actions on websites/ apps. By targeting users on CTV and re-engaging them on mobile, advertisers can drive the possible experience across all screens and devices. Media planners can adopt a holistic, multi-channel approach to maximize reach and engagement by integrating CTV campaigns across multiple screens like mobile and DOOH and create a strong brand impact, says Nikhil Kumar. Experts are certain about the immense potential India as a market offers. India is one of the fastest-growing advertising markets in the world, with increasing video consumption, diverse content, and over 65% of its population below the age of 35, says Siddharth Dabhade, Managing Director - South Asia, MiQ, a global marketing intelligence firm. India is projected to have about 30-35 million connected TV households by the end of 2023. This number is projected to grow by 4x to 80 million households by the end of 2025. Media planners must gain a thorough understanding of how GenZ and Millennials consume content on CTV platforms. This involves delving into their preferred genres, viewing habits, peak times for engagement, and device usage patterns, he adds. GenZ spends a lot of time on OTT platforms and social media handles, so marketers need to collaborate with OTT platforms, content creators, and brands to access premium inventory, exclusive content, and advanced targeting capabilities. Marketers need to utilise data analytics and audience insights to inform media planning decisions. This includes demographic data, viewing patterns, and ad performance metrics to optimise targeting and messaging. GenZ prefers customised ad experiences, so marketers need to plan content for individual viewers based on their preferences, behaviours, and demographics. 42% of respondents prioritise price over content when choosing streaming platforms, revealing a crucial factor for advertisers to consider. Second-screening could be the perfect opportunity for mobile retargeting and competitive conquest. Advertisers need to integrate CTV advertising with other digital channels and traditional media to create cohesive and complementary campaigns. This ensures a broader reach and consistent messaging across platforms. Marketers need to develop innovative and interactive ad formats specifically designed for CTV platforms. This could include interactive overlays, shoppable ads, and immersive experiences to captivate viewers and drive engagement. Weve seen that 81% of advertisers in China and India intend to increase their spends on ATV. From this, we may draw a parallel to the higher level of second-screen activity in those regions. This suggests the advertisers that get it right would be the ones that choose marketing approaches that allow them to reach both of those screens. In Western markets, where viewing tends to be more passive, a reach- and frequency-focused approach across fragmented viewing options may prove more effective, says Dabhade. Media planners should focus on personalised targeting as GenZ and Millennials are diverse groups with distinct interests, says Krishna Menon, Chief Operating Officer, QYOU Media India. Extending beyond basic demographics and harnessing data to pinpoint specific cohorts within these generations, considering their viewing habits, content preferences, and online behaviours, will prove pivotal. Given the notably short attention spans of GenZ and Millennials, prioritize concise and impactful ad formats like short-form videos or interactive elements. Authentic and relatable storytelling resonates strongly with these demographics; so leverage data insights to guide creative decisions, ensuring your ads strike a chord with the intended audience, Menon adds. The CTV advantage Advertisers can leverage the unique advantages offered by CTV, such as addressable media and immersive ad experiences, compared to traditional TV advertising. CTV enables advertisers to deliver highly targeted ads to specific households or individual viewers based on data such as demographics, interests, and behaviours. This level of precision ensures that ads are relevant and personalised, increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversion. Unlike traditional TV, CTV allows for more interactive and engaging ad experiences. CTV advertising provides access to real-time analytics and performance metrics, allowing advertisers to track key metrics such as ad impressions, completion rates, and conversions. These insights enable advertisers to optimize their campaigns in real-time, ensuring maximum ROI and effectiveness. CTV advertising also enables advertisers to reach audiences across multiple devices. This cross-device targeting ensures broader reach and allows advertisers to engage with viewers across various touchpoints throughout their consumer journey. Brands have typically used advertising on television for awareness, recall and purchase, but the traditional advertising on television has lacked precision targeting, points out Nikhil Kumar. He further reckons that it was also not tailored to the viewers interests nor was there a way to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns. With CTV, Nikhil Kumar adds, brands can do so much more to reach their target audience effectively and go beyond traditional targeting. According to him, the prime advantages of CTV lies in the programmatic ability to target and reach specific audience groups, and further segment them based on screen size, location, and interests. The programmatic technology on CTV also makes real-time optimisation possible to improve efficiency. Also, what makes CTV advertising immersive is the variety of creative formats that are catered to screen sizes. Advertisers can use formats such as in-stream ads where an ad is linked to the content being watched, or use interactive ads that prompt viewers to actively engage with the ad content. Another interactive format designed to improve a users engagement is through QR code feature that allows viewers to quickly scan and access the app store for increased conversion opportunities. Using a combination of these techniques, brands can craft highly targeted ads and ultimately drive re-directions on mobile app or to the nearest store to boost purchase, states Nikhil Kumar. Advertisers have a strong advantage of engaging with their audiences more effectively via interactive ad formats offered by CTV, and the best part is that these ads can also be integrated seamlessly with other marketing channels like social media and online advertising, creating a more cohesive brand experience, says Krishna Menon. According to him, these advanced ad formats bring a fresh approach for the brands and also increase engagement and recall value compared to passive TV commercials. Multiple innovations in content and ad delivery have emerged in recent times with the affordability of smart TV devices and internet connectivity, says Siddharth Dabhade. CTV gives advertisers the best of the consumer ad experience and immersion with the TV screen while offering the addressable media and content capability we have become accustomed to in the rest of the digital ecosystem. According to Dabhade: CTV provides advertisers with the opportunity to create interactive and immersive ad experiences that engage viewers on a deeper level. Ad formats such as interactive overlays, shoppable ads, and augmented reality experiences can enhance brand storytelling and drive higher levels of engagement and interaction. CTV enables advertisers to dynamically optimise ad creatives in real-time based on viewer data and behaviour. By leveraging DCO technology, advertisers can deliver personalised ad experiences tailored to individual viewers, increasing relevance and effectiveness. CTV allows advertisers to seamlessly integrate their ad campaigns across multiple screens and devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, mobile devices, and desktop computers. This cross-screen approach ensures consistent messaging and maximises reach and frequency across various touchpoints. CTV provides advertisers with valuable audience insights and data analytics capabilities, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of viewer behaviour, preferences, and interests. By leveraging these insights, advertisers can refine their targeting strategies, optimise ad creatives, and tailor their messaging to resonate with their target audience more effectively. Advertisers can leverage advanced targeting options for their connected TV advertising campaigns by segmenting audiences based on age and gender criteria, activity across CTV platforms, interaction with a product or an ad, interests, and used devices. Contextual targeting on the CTV is a game-changer that brings targeting opportunities to the next level, as the ads are served based on the streaming content without applying demographic, location, or other types of data. Prabhvir Sahmey says that at Samsung, they have been able to bring unique insights from the TV advertising ecosystem. Being a hardware player in this value chain, we are able to provide relevant TV signals like what content/ programme people are watching to how long they are engaged with his content. And, if they are running traditional TV advertising - with the power of ACR (Automatic Content Recognition) - we are also able to help them identify if Samsung TVs across India did see their brands ad. Secondly, a big shift of how CTV works is on demand, which means your ads only run when the TVs are on; and a specific application is opened on the device. This changes the classical TV buying analogy. While this is true for VOD, it is not the same for live events. As viewers evolve, we'll see changes in how these ads play and execute on the TV. Interactive and shoppable Ads seem to be on the horizon. Adding more interesting metrics to track for the advertiser, says Sahmey. (Tomorrow Part 2 of this report will uncover the advancements in CTV analytics and measurement tools and potential challenges such as fragmentation.) Amidst widespread support from customers, merchants, and the startup community for Paytm, one of India's top fintech firms, Pine Labs issued a promotional tweet that subtly criticized Paytm's newspaper ads, that were aimed at reassuring users about the reliability of its devices. However, the move by Pine Labs, backfired, sparking a flurry of backlash against them. People called it out saying it was an unclassy and distasteful approach. Paytms front page ads in regional newspapers went on to assure its merchant partners that Paytm QR, Soundbox, and Card machine will continue to work as always even beyond March 15, following regulatory clarity. In response, the Pine Labs Posted on Social media platform X saying Front- page ads can be bought. Trust cannot. But that seems to have backfired for them. The promoted Twitter post by Pine Labs taking a dig at fellow #Fintech Paytm is below the belt. Vijay Sir is the pioneer of #Fintech revolution in #Indian #startup ecosystem, Satya Mehta, founder and CBO of a food tech startup MealPe, wrote on LinkedIn. Another, Karthik Srinivasan, a LinkedIn top voice and ex-communications specialist of Ogilvy, Flipkart, understanding the competitive nature of the business world, highlighted that even in such an aggressive environment, it's possible to address competitor's setbacks in a dignified manner. I fully understand that we are in a cut-throat, dog-eat-dog world. But even in such a world, there are perfectly civil ways to use a rival's misfortune (brought upon by itself) without alluding directly to the rival, Srinavasan wrote. I hold no brief for Paytm and believe the RBI action, after multiple warnings, is appropriate, for taking compliance so casually. But this below-the-belt jab from Pine Labs seems unwarranted, he added. Many pointed out the irony of Pine Labs using a promoted tweet on Twitter to mudsling. This approach also sparked a debate on the ethics of corporate competition, with industry observers and insiders calling for a more supportive ecosystem among startups. Amit Gupta, business consultant wrote on Linkedin, calling out Pine Labs, for not appreciating Paytms resilience and its founder Vijay Shekhar Sharmas who built the ecosystem from scratch. Not good Pine Labs - Trolling Paytm with a sponsored post yourselves? Who runs your creative team Amrish Rau?, his post read. Don't wish to support - don't. But why this pettiness? Same with Phonepe CEO being so upbeat on grabbing 'market share proportionately. Guptas reference to PhonePe came at the backdrop of its CEO claiming in an interview they will grab market share proportionately after RBI clampdown on Paytm. Amit Veer, CEO of Coffeee.io, criticized Pine Labs for mocking Paytm, highlighting the irony of Pine Labs previously hiring Paytm's employees without interviews due to their valuable skills. He reminded Pine Labs of the potential repercussions of such actions and sought to maintain integrity in business practices. Classless and reeks of the scarcity mindset ( you have to lose for me to win) so ingrained in most of us. There are better ways to promote your brand without demeaning your competitor, Arindam Paul, CBO of Atomberg Tech, tweeted. Paytm is fighting a wave of misinformation, exacerbated by unfair marketing tactics from rivals even as it embarks on a social media blitz to clarify that their services remain unaffected by a recent regulatory directive. New Jerseys film-friendly environment is making waves on the world stage. The Producers Guild of India (PGI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the state of New Jersey in an effort to facilitate the shooting of Indian films in New Jersey. The MOU was signed between PGI, Choose New Jersey, and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority during Choose New Jerseys economic mission to India in December. The MOU opens communication channels for idea sharing and information on best practices for film production and promotion. It will also assist PGI with location scouting in New Jersey. The Indian film industrys boom coincides with New Jerseys rise as a premier destination to shoot and produce film and television in the United States. As Indian filmmakers have increasingly considered New Jersey as a shooting location for projects, this MOU strengthens the relationship between the Indian film industry and New Jersey. There has been a quantum increase in the number of Indian productions filming internationally, said Shibasish Sarkar, President of the Producers Guild of India. Traditionally, international shoots were restricted to a handful of destinations and were almost exclusively the domain of a very few mega-budget productions. However, todays Indian filmmaker is not averse to shooting pretty much anywhere in the world, irrespective of the scale of their productions. New Jersey is an attractive destination for Indian films for a host of reasons, and we look forward to working closely with our counterparts in New Jersey to realize the immense potential for collaboration. New Jersey offers one of the nations most attractive incentive programs for filmmakers, featuring a 30% or 35% tax credit and a 2% or 4% diversity bonus. The state also offers a pro-film environment with cooperative counties and municipalities, an extensive transportation system, and a breathtaking variety of locations and landscapes. The New York-New Jersey metro area has the highest concentration of creative and technical professionals outside of California, including a strong network of support services and vendors. New Jersey is fast becoming one of the countrys most sought-after locations for film and TV production, said Wesley Mathews, President and CEO of Choose New Jersey. As Indias vibrant film industry seeks more international filming options, we welcome the opportunity to proudly display all New Jersey has to offer, not only in investments and incentives but also in unparalleled locations and talent pool. Throughout his tenure, Governor Phil Murphy has fostered an engaging relationship with India, solidifying New Jersey as a top destination for Indian business investment, said Tim Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. New Jerseys film sector has exploded over recent years, leading to major productions setting up shop in the state and record-breaking spending. We are thrilled to welcome Indias film industry, which will expand film production in the state, create jobs, and generate greater economic activity. India is a vital business partner and cultural ally for New Jersey. Their shared economies are advancing in pharmaceuticals and health, technology, food and beverage, film and digital media, and manufacturing, making our business relationship a natural fit. Indian filmmakers will find community and dynamic places to shoot in New Jersey towns like Edison, Iselin, and Jersey City, which have some of the highest populations of Indian residents in the United States. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviours, the media landscape is undergoing profound transformations. Against this backdrop, Prasanth Kumar, CEO, GroupM South Asia, offers nuanced insights into the intricate dynamics shaping media consumption, advertising trends, and the future trajectory of the industry. Impact of Elections on Media Consumption Elections serve as significant milestones in the Indian media landscape, influencing advertising spends across various platforms. Kumar elucidates that elections typically account for approximately 1% to 1.5% of advertising spends, with a notable emphasis on local media channels. Moreover, he highlights the increasing relevance of digital platforms in election campaigns, driven by their ability to target diverse constituencies effectively. Overall, were seeing about 1% to one and a half percent of the AdEx playing out in the elections. Digital stands to benefit, Im assuming. Obviously, we see the skew being on digital, but each election is placed onto different states, different constituencies. Local media is equally important there, explains Kumar. Television Advertising Trends: Linear TV versus Connected TV The traditional paradigm of linear television advertising is witnessing a gradual evolution, spurred by the rise of connected TV (CTV). Kumar notes a decline in linear TV spends, particularly in non-event periods. However, he remains optimistic about the growth potential of linear TV, particularly during marquee events like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Spends on linear TV are seeing a downturn, especially with the rise of connected TV. But when it comes to events like the IPL, we see a different story unfolding. The momentum is palpable, with increased brand participation and early planning indicating positive growth potential for linear TV advertising, remarks Kumar. Digital Medias Ascendancy and Market Penetration The digital realm continues to assert its dominance, driven by innovations in targeting, personalisation, and content delivery. Kumar underscores the pivotal role of tier two and tier three markets in propelling digital growth, fueled by the widespread adoption of smart TVs and the expansion of broadband infrastructure in non-metro areas. The growth is coming from the tier two, tier three markets. Whether its connected TV and OTT is directly linked to connected TV. In India, we hardly manufacture non-smart TVs. Everything has just moved on, observes Kumar. Startup Sector Outlook: Opportunities and Challenges Amidst the evolving media landscape, the startup sector emerges as a burgeoning player in the advertising ecosystem. Kumar reflects on the momentum building within the startup sector, highlighting increased activity and spending. However, he underscores the importance of strategic planning and cautious spending, considering factors such as seasonality, competition, and geopolitical uncertainties. The startup sector is witnessing a resurgence, with more players becoming active in advertising. However, prudent planning and strategic allocation of resources are imperative, especially amidst uncertainties like seasonality and geopolitical tensions, advises Kumar. Future of Media Consumption: Personalization and Innovation Looking ahead, Kumar envisages a future characterized by personalized content and targeted advertising across multiple platforms. He emphasizes the pivotal role of technology in enabling enhanced targeting, engagement, and measurement capabilities across the media spectrum. Innovations such as gamification, interactivity, and commerce integration are reshaping the advertising landscape, offering new avenues for brands to connect with consumers. As we move forward, the key lies in leveraging technology to deliver personalised experiences that resonate with audiences, asserts Kumar. The Federal Council Bern, 21.02.2024 - Switzerland is to ban Hamas. The Federal Council decided at its meeting on 21 February to open the consultation on the necessary legal basis. The ban will also include Hamas cover and successor organisations as well as organisations that act on its behalf or in its name. On 7 October, Hamas gunmen launched an attack on Israel, killing almost 1,200 people from Israel and other countries, including two Swiss nationals. The attack deliberately targeted the civilian population. In addition to those killed, almost 250 men, women and children were abducted: around 130 hostages are still being held by the organisation. In response to this unprecedentedly brutal attack, the Federal Council decided on 11 October 2023 to designate Hamas a terrorist organisation. In December 2023, the National Council and the Council of States each adopted an identical motion calling for a ban on the organisation. Under the new Federal Act on the Proscription of Hamas and Associated Organisations', Hamas and cover or successor organisations as well as organisations or groups that act on its behalf or in its name are to be banned. The Federal Council may also designate organisations and groups as terrorist organisations if they have a particular affinity with Hamas or share its objectives, leadership or resources. Ban to create legal certainty and have preventative effect The ban aims at having both a preventative and repressive impact on Hamas, in particular by: reducing the risk of Hamas and associated organisations using Switzerland as a safe haven or carrying out terrorist activities on Swiss territory; enabling law enforcement services to impose preventative police measures such as entry bans or expulsion orders more easily and effectively; creating clarity and greater legal certainty for law enforcement services when presenting criminal evidence and enabling them to take more targeted action against Hamas supporters; providing legal certainty for financial intermediaries in combating terrorist financing and allowing the Money Laundering Reporting Office Switzerland (MROS) to exchange information more easily with foreign partner authorities on financial flows with suspected links to terrorist financing; designating Hamas and associated organisations as terrorist organisations in accordance with Article 260ter of the Swiss Criminal Code (SCC), thereby making acts of support punishable by a custodial sentence not exceeding 10 years or 20 years if the person has considerable influence in the organisation. Ban limited to five years - extension by Parliament possible The Hamas ban has far-reaching consequences for the organisations, groups and individuals concerned. For this reason, the law is limited to five years. Parliament has the option of extending it by means of the ordinary legislative procedure. The consultation procedure lasts until 28 May 2024. Address for enquiries Federal Office of Police fedpol, T +41 58 463 13 10 Publisher The Federal Council https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html Federal Department of Justice and Police http://www.ejpd.admin.ch Federal Office of Police http://www.fedpol.admin.ch/fedpol/en/home.html General Secretariat DDPS https://www.vbs.admin.ch/ Federal intelligence service http://www.ndb.admin.ch Annie is a reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. She previously was a digital producer for The Chronicles Datebook section. She graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2017 with a degree in journalism. During her time there, she spearheaded a culture column, produced radio pieces for NPR-affiliate station KCBX, and was a DJ and writer for KCPR, the campus radio station. Before joining the Chronicle, she was an associate producer at SFGATE and interned at VICE and Flood Magazine. Shes particularly interested in communities and scenes that are often misunderstood. She can be reached at avainshtein@sfchronicle.com. The Federal Council Bern, 21.02.2024 - On 21 February the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the free trade agreement between the EFTA countries and Moldova. The dispatch will now be referred to Parliament for approval. Moldova is the first partner country with which EFTA has agreed a comprehensive chapter on e-commerce and incorporated its new model chapter on trade and sustainable development. The new free trade agreement with Moldova is modern and far-reaching. It is consistent with EFTA's more recent free trade agreements with third countries and covers a broad range of sectors. It includes provisions on trade in industrial goods, processed and unprocessed agricultural products, technical barriers to trade, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade in services, investment, intellectual property protection, competition, public procurement and dispute settlement. Moldova is also the first partner country with which EFTA has agreed a comprehensive chapter on e-commerce and incorporated its new model chapter on trade and sustainable development. A trading partner with potential The bilateral trade volume between Switzerland and Moldova is worth some CHF 50 million (2022) and has further growth potential. The new free trade agreement opens up broad market access and improves the legal framework and predictability for economic players. The free trade agreement between the EFTA member states (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) and Moldova was signed in Schaan, Liechtenstein, on 27 June 2023. Address for enquiries Communication GS-EAER info@gs-wbf.admin.ch, +41 58 462 20 07 Publisher The Federal Council https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research http://www.wbf.admin.ch Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena | Image :ANI The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the seven BJP MLAs, suspended from the Delhi assembly for repeatedly interrupting Lieutenant Governors V K Saxenas address at the start of the Budget session, to meet the speaker after it was informed that the LG has accepted their apology. The counsel for the MLAs told the court they would meet Speaker Ram Niwas Goel during the day. When Justice Subramonium Prasad asked the MLAs to meet the speaker, their counsel said, As legislators, I dont think we should have any difficulty in meeting the speaker. However, what we are concerned and aggrieved about is our continued suspension. Senior advocate Jayant Mehta, appearing for the MLAs, said they have submitted a letter of apology to Saxena who accepted it. He said a letter was also sent to Speaker Goel. Though we dont think we did anything wrong, it was meant as an apology, he submitted. The high court was hearing the pleas by seven BJP MLAs Mohan Singh Bisht, Ajay Mahawar, O P Sharma, Abhay Verma, Anil Bajpai, Jitender Mahajan and Vijender Gupta challenging their indefinite suspension from the assembly. During the hearing, the MLAs counsel said, Although the court was told that it (their suspension) wasnt political, we felt otherwise. We wrote a letter to the LG. The LG accepted it. However, there are two developments. Political comments are being made political messages are floating Initially, Mehta said since the legislators have been barred, they cannot go inside the assembly premises. Senior advocate Sudhir Nandrajog, representing the legislative assembly, however, said the suspended MLAs can go and meet the speaker in his office but they cannot enter the legislative chamber. As the lawyer suggested that the MLAs should go and meet the speaker with a letter of apology, the judge said he will not say anything on the nature of the proposed meeting but the legislators should go and meet Goel. I am not interested in the nature of the meeting. I am not interested in what transpires in the meeting. I am only saying go and meet the speaker, the judge said, adding the court is not a political platform. The court said it deals with law, and if an issue can be resolved outside the court, an attempt should be made. The court listed the matter for further hearing on Thursday. It had on Tuesday asked the seven BJP MLAs if they were willing to apologise to the LG. The court had asked the senior counsel appearing for the suspended legislators to take instructions on this aspect after the senior lawyer for the assembly said a similar approach was adopted in the Supreme Court in the case of AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha. The MLAs counsel had said there was no difficulty in apologising to the LG. The MLAs had contended their suspension till the conclusion of the proceedings before the privileges committee was in violation of the applicable rules. The BJP lawmakers had interrupted Saxena multiple times during his address on February 15 as he highlighted the achievements of the AAP government, while they attacked the Arvind Kejriwal government on a range of issues. Production has started at Toyota Alabama in Huntsville on the automakers i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbo engine line, the first fruit of a $222 million expansion. The project, launched back in 2021 at the Huntsville engine plant, will provide powertrains for the all-new Tacoma pickup. Its the plants sixth building expansion. In all, Toyota has invested about $1.5 billion into its Alabama motor plant, which produces about a third of the Toyota engines in the U.S. Last year, the factory produced a record 777,000 engines. It opened in 2003. Huntsville is Toyotas only plant to build four-cylinder, V-6 and twin-turbo engines in one location. Toyota Alabama President Jason Puckett called the start of production a significant milestone for Toyota Alabama and further supports job stability for our 2,000 employees. Now, with Tacoma offering a hybrid option, every line at our plant includes engines for hybrid vehicles, he said. Its our team and their skills that have paved the way for this plant to play a critical role in Toyotas efficient and electrified future. Alabama Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, said Toyota Alabama has an extensive track record of success, and were proud of the workforce in Huntsville that has helped make all of that possible. The police account of what happened on the night a Birmingham officer shot and killed a man nearly five years ago appears to conflict with newly released body camera footage made public through a $4.5 million federal lawsuit. The footage shows Birmingham police officer Aric Mitchell fire four shots into the driver side window of a Toyota Camry on the night of June 15, 2019. The shooting killed the driver Jamarcus Moore and injured passenger Samantha Hardin, who are both Black. Officer Mitchell, who is also Black, said in a recorded interview with an internal affairs investigator, that he shot and killed Moore because he saw him reaching for a gun on the floorboard as they struggled through the driver side window. The gunfire also hit Hardin and broke her leg. The video appears to show Mitchell get out of his patrol car and immediately fire four shots at the vehicle from several feet away. What he said happened, as opposed to what actually happened, was glaringly inconsistent, said Johnathan Austin, an attorney for Moores family and Hardin. It was just a blatant lie. Mitchell still works for the city as a patrol officer. A federal jury watched the videos and reviewed other evidence during a four-day trial and decided on Feb. 1 that the city and Mitchell owe nearly $4.5 million to Hardin and Moores family for the use of excessive force. Rick Journey, spokesperson for Birmingham, said the city plans to appeal the case. The deadline to file any motions is Thursday, per court records. AL.com obtained Officer Mitchells body cam footage and another officers body and dash cam footage through a public records request in federal court last week. Lawyers for Birmingham and for Mitchell filed an emergency request to keep the recordings secret. But U.S. District Judge Anna M. Manasco said the public has a right to see the videos. They are part of the public record in this case and are not and have never been sealed, Judge Manasco wrote in an order on Friday. In response, city attorneys withdrew the request. The city did not respond to questions from AL.com for this article but instead provided an edited version of police footage, which they say shows someone in the Camry firing a gun during a chase along Interstate 59/20, southbound. The audio and images in the video do not clearly depict what happened. The city said that popping sounds heard on the video are gunfire. AL.com obtained and reviewed camera footage from two police officers, as well as Moores autopsy report, depositions and affidavits filed by three officers and Hardin, and other documents filed in court records. The court also released the recording of Mitchells internal affairs investigation interview. Mitchell said the ordeal began when he was patrolling in Ensley just before midnight on June 15, 2019. In that internal affairs interview, he said he smelled marijuana. He suspected the scent might be coming from a passing Toyota Camry. When I came out the alley at the intersection, I noticed, I think, a blue SUV and a gold Toyota come by me, he said. As we was traveling, I smelled marijuana in the area, which was not unusual being in that area. He said the smell got stronger once the SUV pulled away, so he assumed it was coming from the Camry. I noticed the driver kept looking back at me, looking out the windows. He cut his dome light on, looking around, making real overt movements, he said in the interview. That got my suspicions going. The city on Friday instead said Mitchell attempted to stop the Camry for a tag violation. Moore drove off. Mitchell turned on his body camera. In the video, his patrol car lights and sirens come on and he asks a dispatcher to run the tag on the Camry. Mitchell tried to pull him over, but said that the Camry drove off. The scene in the early hours of June 16, 2019, after Officer Aric Mitchell shot Jamarcus Moore and Samantha Hardin after a 20-minute car chase. (Carol Robinson / AL.com) The footage shows a 20-minute chase that wound through Birmingham, Bessemer and into Hueytown. A report filed by Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says that as police chased the Camry along the interstate, someone fired gunshots from the passenger window, not at police but at other cars traveling on the highway. The report also notes that no one ever came forward to report being shot at and that police never identified or found the people allegedly fired on. Flashes of light, consistent with that of muzzle flash, appeared to have been recorded via video recordings from in-car cameras of BPD police vehicles regarding gunshots fired by an occupant of the Toyota Camry, says the state report from August 2019. Although the gunfire from the Toyota Camry had been heard and reported by multiple BPD officers the report reads, no information was found to exist or show that any person had seen or could identify (eyewitness) which occupant of the Toyota Camry (Moore or Hardin) had fired the gunshots. Birmingham Police Officers Michaela Hood and Shantara Foster said in signed sworn statements to the court that they heard gunfire during the pursuit. Radio, I think hes shooting, I think hes shooting, Hood says in her bodycam video. Other officers start repeating the report of shots fired over the radio and Mitchell calls for backup. The Toyota Camry that Jamarcus Moore was driving and Samantha Hardin was a passenger in on the night of June 15, 2019. (Carol Robinson / AL.com) According to time stamps on the video, the chase went on for about six more minutes after that report of gunfire before Officer Mitchells patrol car crashed into the Camry. Within seconds of colliding with the Camry, Mitchell started shooting at Moore and Hardin, the video shows. The officer just ran up to the driver side of the car where Jamarcus was sitting and started shooting. I was shocked and terrified. I was just sitting there in shock, Hardin said in her affidavit, adding that the officer did not give a warning. Jamarcus was just sitting there too. We were not moving or attempting leave. In his interview with internal affairs, Mitchell said he approached the driver side. He said that Moore was trying to start the car again, so he reached into the car through the window and tried to pull Moore toward it and to get the door open. As Im pulling on him towards the window, hes, with his left hand, hes reached down, hes reaching down between the steering column and the floorboard, Mitchell said. I noticed the handgun that was on the floor, and he actually reached over the gun and was, you know, feeling, moving his hand back toward it. Thats when I let him go, drew my weapon and discharged my gun, he added. The video footage shows Mitchell shoot first and approach the window after, as Moore is slumped in his seat. Officer Hood said in a sworn statement in court records that she heard Mitchell tell Moore and Hardin to put their hands up before shooting. But the video does not appear to show Mitchell giving any warning. And the autopsy noted no evidence of close range fire was seen. After shooting into the vehicle, Mitchell walked away from the car and called for medics on his radio, per the bodycam video. I got one shot, I got two shot, he said. Then, Hoods body camera footage shows her approaching the Camry. Another officer opens the driver side door, and Moore falls to the left, still buckled into his seat. Officers pull him onto the ground. A woman, believed to be Hardin, can be heard on the video, screaming, crying, and saying, my leg and please. The video shows Hood walk away. Someone on her radio says, Theyre running on foot. Theyre not on foot, Hood responds. Shots fired. Start the medics. Police reported finding a gun on the driver side floorboard of the Toyota Camry, according to the state investigation and autopsy reports. The state police report said that the gun, a Taurus TH9C pistol, had the capacity for 18 bullets, but only 14 bullets were in the magazine. But Hardin, the passenger, and her lawyers said neither her nor Moore ever fired shots. The autopsy report found no gunshot residue on Moores clothes or arms. That night, police first told news reporters that officers twice exchanged gunfire with the people inside the Camry, once as they chased the car along Interstate 59/20 and again after the chase ended when an officers patrol vehicle crashed into the car. Police, in statements to the press and in interviews, described a shootout. In his interview with internal affairs two months after the shooting, Officer Mitchell said he was three or four car lengths behind the Toyota Camry, behind two other officers, when he reported gunfire from the car. He just start shooting, just start shooting, he told internal affairs investigators. An officer hangs up crime scene tape on Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive after the car crash and shooting. (Carol Robinson / AL.com) Per the autopsy report, the bullets struck Moores heart and lungs, as well as his right forearm. The window on the driver side of the car was shattered, and a bullet hole was identified on the top center of the drivers door. In 2020, long before a federal jury watched the footage, the Birmingham Police Department decided the shooting complied with its policy. Mitchell was cleared of any wrongdoing by Birminghams internal investigation, District Attorney Lynneice Washington in the Bessemer division, as well as one conducted by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency/State Bureau of Investigation, the city said in court records. The Birmingham Police Department assigned Mitchell to train other officers the next year, he said in his April 2022 deposition. Hes now a patrol officer without training responsibilities, the city told AL.com. Richard Rice, one of the attorneys for Moore and Hardin, pointed out that Black people are more likely to be subjected to excessive force by police than others. With the racial makeup of the city as it is, this is an issue that hits close to home, Rice said. The city has really been outspoken on some of the national issues, and obviously we didnt see that same thing on something that happened at home. Attorneys for Moore and Hardin say Moore ran from the police that night because he had a warrant and did not want to miss the upcoming birth of his child. State court records show Moore had warrants for failure to appear in court on charges of drug possession, attempting to elude police and possession of drug paraphernalia. Hardin said in her signed sworn statement to the court that none of the police officers attempted to provide medical attention as Moore lay dying on the ground next to the car. In Hoods body camera footage, officers are seen sometimes standing around or walking away from Moores body. Officer Foster said in her affidavit that she saw two officers giving Moore chest compressions before medics arrived. When paramedics from Hueytown Fire & Rescue arrived at the scene, they found Moore lying on his back on Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive, with his hands cuffed behind his back, per the autopsy report. They pronounced him dead at 12:11 a.m. on June 16. After the shooting, Hardin was taken to UABs hospital, where she said she was handcuffed to a bed alone for six hours, per her affidavit. A Birmingham police officer questioned her, but never charged her with any crime, she said. Two Alabama Department of Corrections officers have been indicted for first degree assault in connection with an inmate. Samuel Adam Dial, 32, of Hillsboro, and Jesse Ray Cobb, 35, of Harvest, were both arrested on Feb. 16. According to court documents, the two are accused of assaulting William L. Rhinesmith, 75, an inmate in Limestone Correctional Facility, with a broom handle. Rhinesmith is serving a five-year sentence for display of obscene matter. He began serving the sentence last year. Rhinesmith is currently listed as being incarcerated at Kilby Infirmary. Both Dial and Cobb were released from the Limestone County Jail on $10,000 bond. The Alabama Department of Corrections said the two have been reassigned to non-contact posts, pending an investigation, according to WHNT. A bill that would ban diversity and inclusion efforts in Alabama schools and colleges is moving quickly through the state legislature. SB129 would prohibit government institutions, including state agencies, public schools and colleges, from funding a diversity, equity and inclusion office and from sponsoring DEI programs or any program that advocates for a divisive concept. At least eight of the states 14 public four-year universities have a specific office devoted to diversity and inclusion efforts. Sen. Will Barfoot, RPike Road, filed the bill Tuesday afternoon and a committee voted 7-3 Wednesday to move it to the Senate floor with an amendment. The bill has more than 20 Republican co-sponsors. The reason that this bill is so difficult is because what others see as problems or potential problems, I dont see that, Barfoot said on the stand Wednesday, after a lengthy public comment and impassioned speeches from Senate Democrats. Its certainly not the intent. Barfoots bill is the first to specifically ban DEI programs, and also includes a bathroom bill element that would prohibit higher education institutions from allowing individuals to use a restroom that is different from their biological sex. Any employees who violate the act could be disciplined or fired. Last spring, lawmakers sent a funding request to college presidents, asking them to report how much they spend on DEI efforts. AL.com found that much of the spending went toward anti-discrimination programs and other federally mandated services. The legislation lists nine so-called divisive concepts, with most covering topics related to race, ethnicity, sex, religion and national origin. Among the banned concepts: That individuals should feel guilty about or feel the need to apologize on the basis of their identity; that meritocracy and hard work ethics are racist or sexist traits, and that slavery and racism are aligned with the founding principles of the United States. This legislation just offends me deeply, said Sen. Kirk Hatcher, one of the three Democrats who opposed the bill. Im trying to see where theres a need for that this barrage of legislation that Ive seen that seeks to exacerbate divisions rather than nurture and build on our rich diversity. In a last-minute public hearing, educators and advocates questioned the bills intent and compared the legislation to Gov. George Wallaces stand in the schoolhouse door and Nazi book burnings. A college student worried it would dampen their experience by putting multicultural organizations at risk. Jerome Dees of the Southern Poverty Law Center asked if the bill would prevent teachers from talking about the founding fathers views on slavery, or about policy issues like housing discrimination. Some called the bill itself divisive. You fund Confederate monuments. You fund plantations, Camille Bennett, founder of Project Say Something, told legislators Wednesday. Divisive concepts are subjective. You dont have the power to define them. So I humbly ask you to call it both ways, or the people will call it both ways. Supporters, all of whom were white, said they believed todays students cant discuss issues freely, and were being forced to accept ideologies they didnt agree with. Becky Gerritson, of the Alabama Eagle Forum, claimed colleges increased spending on DEI was having an inverse effect. Were spending millions of dollars in the state of Alabama on programs that divide us, on programs that dehumanize us, and I would like to see that stopped, she said. Origins of the bill Divisive concepts bills first emerged after a 2020 Executive Order from former President Donald Trump, which targeted diversity trainings in government institutions and took aim at critical race theory, a 50-year-old legal concept typically taught in law school classes. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, at least 22 states have introduced legislation targeting college diversity and inclusion efforts as of July 2023. Oklahoma, Florida and Texas have now prohibited state funding toward such programs. Alabama lawmakers filed similar legislation during the last two legislative sessions, but those bills never made it to final passage. Officials and educators have repeatedly countered the legislation, saying that the prohibited concepts are not taught in schools. The Constitution said it: We arent perfect as we built this, and we want you to always continue to improve our governance as we move along, Jim Purcell, director of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, said last March, during a discussion on the upcoming legislation. And we need to have these real conversations about what it means to be an American, and what it means to live in a society and be respectful of each other. Barfoot, whose mother was a history teacher, said the ban would not apply to instruction, so long as topics are taught in a historically accurate context. Theres so many things, the good, the bad and the ugly, that happened in the state of Alabama, the U.S., that we dont talk enough about, he said on the stand Wednesday. The bill also says it will not impede federal reporting requirements or support services, prohibit housing or organizations that are segregated by sex, or affect student group activities or certain circumstances relating to accreditation. Students or staff may host a DEI program or event, it added, but must not use state money to fund it. An amendment to the bill, approved Wednesday, would ensure that the legislation doesnt conflict with laws that require state boards to be diverse. Other amendments regarding grant activities and language around government offices were not approved. A bill filed by Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, would have required K-12 history instruction to be fact-based and inclusive. That bill has stalled. Barfoot told lawmakers that he hopes to see SB129 on the Senate floor as early as Thursday. An Alabama Supreme Court decision legally recognizing frozen embryos as children has reignited concerns and confusion about the future of fertility treatments including in vitro fertilization, with both sides recognizing the broader impact of the case. The court on Friday ruled that frozen embryos which are used in IVF are considered unborn children. Alabama voters amended their state constitution in 2018 to give personhood rights to fetuses, and the court decision clarified that that language extends to frozen embryos. The ruling could have an impact well beyond abortion. One thing is certain: this ruling has profound implications far beyond Alabamas borders, said RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association in a statement, saying the new decision may make it impossible to offer services like IVF. Abortion rights advocates warned that access to in vitro fertilization, or IVF, could be impacted after the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022 given state efforts to change the legal definitions of when pregnancy begins and efforts to enshrine personhood protections that start at conception. Experts typically define pregnancy as beginning when a fertilized egg has implanted itself in the uterine wall. But several state laws now define pregnancy as beginning at fertilization. We dont have a real, federal definition of pregnancy, said Kami Geoffray, president of Geoffray Strategies, a Texas-based health care consultancy. These laws are not written with scientifically accurate language. Last week, the Kansas Senate held a hearing on a bill that would allow women to seek child support at any point after conception. Oklahoma lawmakers also held a hearing on legislation last week that would define pregnancy as beginning at conception as well. Liberty Counsel, a Christian law firm, cited the Alabama decision Monday in a brief in a separate Florida case. The group has challenged the wording of a proposed ballot initiative in Florida that would seek to protect access to abortion. This important ruling has far-reaching implications, said Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver, whose organization is arguing Floridas own laws routinely recognize that an unborn child has the legally protected rights of a person. Federal policy Democrats have sought to protect access to assisted reproductive technology like IVF on a federal level in an effort to head off state changes. In December 2022, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., called for the chamber to take up her bill that would prohibit restrictions on accessing assisted reproductive technology. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., objected at the time. Duckworth, who has spoken publicly about her experience with the procedure, called again on Tuesday for the Senate to take up bills that would establish a right to access IVF. Various Republican-led state changes, she said, have left people like her who relied on IVF to start and grow our own families worried about whether access to these important technologies could be next. No one looking to start or grow their family, in any state, deserves to be criminalized, said Duckworth, adding the Alabama decision shows that she was right to be worried. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., called the Alabama decision an outrageous attack on personal freedoms. They want to dictate the terms of how you get pregnant, when you give birth, and whether you become a parent, she tweeted Tuesday. Last year, the Office of Personnel Management announced an expansion of assisted reproductive technology benefits for Federal Employee Health Benefits beneficiaries. The Department of Veterans Affairs also announced last month as part of a court filing that it plans to expand its current coverage for IVF for veterans to align with the Defense Department. ___ 2024 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Visit cqrollcall.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A bill to potentially increase the financial penalties that local governments would face for violating a 2017 law that blocks moving or changing historical monuments, buildings, and streets was delayed Tuesday after several people spoke against it at a public hearing. The bill, SB51 by Sen. Gerald Allen, R-Cottondale, would amend the law the Legislature passed seven years ago to protect Confederate monuments, the Alabama Memorial Preservation Act of 2017. The law says, no architecturally significant building, memorial building, memorial street, or monument which is located on public property and has been so situated for 40 or more years may be relocated, removed, altered, renamed, or otherwise disturbed. Those same structures in place for at least 20 years but less than 40 can only be relocated, removed, altered, or renamed if the entity that controls the public property receives a waiver from the Committee on Alabama Monument protection. Under the current law, local governments that violate the law face a fine of $25,000. Allens bill would change that to $5,000 per day for each day that the entity controlling the property failed to take restorative action. The bill would allow the attorney general to commence a civil action to ask a court to block a threatened or continuing violation of the law. The bill said the attorney general could stay the fine if the local government submits documentation that it has started restoration. Also, under current law, if a local government applies for a waiver from the Committee on Alabama Monument Protection, and the committee fails to act on it within 90 days, the request is deemed granted. Allens bill would change that to say that if the committee fails to act in 90 days, the request would be deemed denied. David Gespass, an attorney who spoke against the bill, questioned that change. At the very least, the committee should be required to explain why its denying an application that a government entity feels is necessary, Gespass said. Camille Bennett, founder and executive director of Project Say Something, which has worked to remove a Confederate monument from the Lauderdale County Courthouse in Florence, was the first to speak in opposition to Allens bill. She said Allen had told her that the law would also protect monuments honoring Martin Luther King Jr., but she challenged that argument. Thats a false equivalency, said Bennett, who said she has received death threats for her stance. Martin Luther King won a Nobel Peace Prize. Theres no reason to remove his name from anything. Bennett said a speaker at the dedication of the Lauderdale County monument in 1903 referred to Black people as a mongrel race. Several members of the Senate County and Municipal Government Committee, which held the public hearing, spoke against the bill. Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham, said she was opposed to the Memorial Preservation Act when it passed in 2017 because it was punitive on local governments. Coleman-Madison said she was not opposed to Confederate statues but that the history needs to be presented in its full context. I believe history should be told and you should tell the truth about it, Coleman-Madison said. The good, the bad, and the ugly. That was a war against the United States, and this is something that we still want to uphold? Coleman-Madison said. Sen. Kirk Hatcher, D-Montgomery, echoed Colemans comments and said the restrictions of the Memorial Preservation Act violate free speech. Sonny Brasfield, executive director of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama, questioned the provision that automatically denies a waiver request if the committee fails to take action on a request within 90 days. He said the ACCA supports adding the provision for the attorney general to seek an injunction but opposed increasing the fine to $5,000 a day. After the public hearing, Sen. Chris Elliott, a Republican from Baldwin County and chair of the County and Municipal Government Committee, said Allens bill did not have the votes to get out of committee in its current form. Elliott postponed a vote on the bill. Thats right, the bar has been moved again, Desi Lydec said Tuesday on The Daily Show. From now on in Alabama, life begins when a man notices his first cousin is hot. As the Comedy Central program tackled a recent Alabama Supreme Court decision giving fertilized eggs the same legal status as children in civil cases, Lydec and fellow correspondent Ronny Chieng found plenty of absurdity to play with. Lydec also noted real-world worries that the ruling could disrupt use of in vitro fertilization techniques that many couples have relied upon to become parents. Just to clarify whats happening here, tens of thousands of women have children using IVF every year, said Lydec. And since its not possible to do that without creating some excess embryos, the state of Alabama has now ruled that starting a family is basically murder. You know, pro-life. Last time I checked, youre not allowed to store kids in the freezer, she said. And yeah, I have checked, and now Im on some kind of CPS watch list. Chieng weighed in from a supposed Alabama IVF clinic, brandishing a test tube. Turns out, Im a father now. Thats right, say hello to little Ronny Jr. Look, hes got his dads eyes. This is not a scam, he said, in response to an accusation from Lydec. This is a legal child in the state of Alabama. That means I get all the benefits of being a dad without having to be a dad. I get to claim you on my taxes, I get paternity leave, I can hang out in the McDonaldss ball pit without getting hassled. Given the fact that the Alabama ruling came in a case that started with someone dropping frozen embryos in a Mobile hospital, its no great surprise what comes next. The whole segment can be found on YouTube. The full episode can be found at Comedy Centrals website. A proposal for a sober living facility at 935 Kearny St., on the border of Chinatown and North Beach, was scrapped by Mayor London Breed. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle San Francisco Mayor London Breed on Tuesday scrapped a plan for a sober living facility on the edge of Chinatown for people recovering from addiction after vigorous opposition from local advocates and merchants. The proposal to transform the 150-unit hotel at 935 Kearny St. was the latest push by Breed to fight the drug crisis that caused record overdose deaths in the city last year and sparked anger over open-air drug dealing and use. The facility would have provided housing as well as onsite supportive services for homeless individuals who want to refrain from drug and alcohol use. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Breed wrote in a statement first released to Chinese-language media that she remains committed to establishing the new sober housing program, the first of its kind funded by the city, at an alternative location. For this critical new program to be successful, its important for it to have support from the surrounding community. It became clear from my conversations with many in the area that this support was not there, she wrote. Breed, who is facing a tough re-election this year against three main challengers, is hoping to capture the support of residents and businesses in Chinatown as she tries to assemble a winning coalition. When she announced the project on Feb. 8, Chinatown advocates and merchants reacted with outrage, saying they were surprised by her proposal and had not received any prior notice about the citys plan. They said they should have a say in whether a sober living facility opens on the edge of Chinatown. Opposition to the project was growing as Breed nixed the plan. The Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, a Chinatown community advocacy organization, had planned to hold a news conference Wednesday rallying North Beach and Chinatown groups, but it was canceled. Edward Siu, president of the Chinatown Merchants United Association, who owns a travel agency in Chinatown, told the Chronicle on Tuesday that he thinks Breed learned her lesson from this episode. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its like they listened now because I believe the Chinese community unified together had a voice, Siu said. The mayor, good thing, listened, and made a good choice and changed it. Siu said he believed the sober living hotel would have caused businesses in Chinatown and North Beach to lose customers by affecting the atmosphere. Eva Lee, president of the Chinatown Merchants Association, said she opposed the project because Chinatown business owners have been struggling and it was unclear whether the facility would be properly managed. Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, whose district includes Chinatown, told the Chronicle that the Breed administration did not treat the Chinatown community as partners and lacked proper outreach before announcing the project, which he called disrespectful. Had they done so, he said, the community might have embraced the idea. Mason Lee, a Breed spokesperson, said that the mayor sat down with members, leaders and merchants of the Chinatown community to discuss their concerns and hear directly from them last week and that the Feb. 8 announcement did not mean the facility was a done deal. Lee added that Breed has always valued her partnership with Chinatown. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is not about creating divisions, but about listening and working towards solutions, Lee said. Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic, which was slated to operate the site, said it is unfortunate that the city is going to lose 150 permanent supportive sober units in two neighborhoods that desperately need more affordable housing North Beach and Chinatown. Five candidates seeking the Democratic nomination in Alabamas redrawn 2nd Congressional District took part in a 90-minute forum Tuesday night at the Southern Poverty Law Centers Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery. Rep. Napoleon Bracy of Saraland, Sen. Merika Coleman of Pleasant Grove, former Justice Department official Shomari Figures of Mobile, Rep. Juandalynn Givan of Birmingham, and Rep. Jeremy Gray of Russell County fielded questions about health care, voting laws, education, attracting good jobs to the district, and child poverty. The moderators, SPLC State Director Tafeni English, and Tiffany Johnson Cole, an attorney and municipal judge in Tuskegee, also asked the candidates the importance of whether they live in the district. The Constitution does not require U.S. House members to live in the district they represent, only in the state, and some of the candidates in the redrawn 2nd District live in other parts of Alabama. There are 11 Democratic candidates in the 2nd District race. The SPLC Action Fund, a tax-exempt organization that says its mission is to be a catalyst for racial justice, organized the forum and invited six of the 11 Democratic candidates to take part. The invitations were based on the top six rankings in a poll and whether the candidates had raised at $10,000 in campaign funds or received contributions from at least 20 donors. Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville, who was among the six invited, did not participate. There are also seven Republican candidates in the race. The primary is March 5. The stakes are high. A federal court approved a map redrawing the district in October, changing it from a safe Republican district to one where voters could elect the second Democrat and second Black representative in Alabamas seven-member Congressional delegation. English and Cole asked six questions and gave the candidates 70 seconds to respond and 35 seconds to give rebuttals. Candidates also made brief opening and closing statements. Alabama is one of only 10 states that has not expanded Medicaid as allowed under the Affordable Care Act, President Obamas signature legislature. Expansion would provide health insurance to several hundred thousand Alabamians, mostly low-income working families. Alabamas Republican lawmakers and governors have opposed expansion, saying it would be too costly to the state, although some analyses show the benefits, including better access to care for those in rural areas and support for hospitals, would outweigh the cost. The five candidates all voiced support for Medicaid expansion and said they would promote legislation in Congress to increase the federal funding Alabama and other non-expansion states could receive, a proposal initially sponsored by former Sen. Doug Jones. Alabamas Democratic state lawmakers have advocated for Medicaid expansion for more than a decade. Figures, who worked in the Obama administration, said if Alabama declines to expand Medicaid even with an enhanced federal funding rate, it would be time to seek other solutions. In the event that Alabama still refuses, I think we need to explore ways to get federal funding directly to some of the counties to provide healthcare services to the people, Figures said. He said those who need help fall into a coverage gap, making too much money to qualify for Medicaid currently but not enough to reasonably afford health insurance on the open marketplace. Figures said those people do not deserve to be victimized by a failure of leadership on one side of the aisle here in Montgomery. Their lives are too precious, and we can do better, he said. The five candidates were asked what they would to overcome opposition to the Freedom to Vote Act, a bill that would guarantee that states provide more early voting opportunities, which are now limited to absentee voting in Alabama. They said they supported that as well as a voting bill named after civil rights icon John Lewis that is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham. The John Lewis bill would restore a section of the Voting Rights Act that required some states to receive preclearance for election law changes. We need to pass the John Lewis act in addition to the Freedom to Vote Act, Coleman said. But how do we do that? We have to win this seat. We have to flip the House of Representatives to get the majority, and as a majority member, if the people of Congressional District 2 elect me, I will be excited to vote for both of these bills. And also to vote for Hakeem Jeffries as the first African American speaker of the House. Jeffries, a congressman from New York, is the House minority leader. But we also have to keep the Senate, Coleman said. We have to keep the Senate majority, and we have to re-elect Joe Biden. Givan said she was concerned about low voter participation. Weve got to get people to the polls to vote, Givan said. Weve got people registered to vote, but theyre not voting. Im going to get out here in these streets and Im going to try to do my best to figure out why people are not voting, Givan said. Give them a reason to go vote. Support the John Lewis voting rights act, and continue to impress upon individuals the freedoms that they have when they do exercise their right to vote. Givan and several of the other candidates mentioned a bill pending in the Alabama Legislature that would make it a crime under certain circumstances to help people with absentee voting. Republicans support that bill, known as SB1. The candidates said the bill is an example of attacks on voting rights. The candidates were asked what they would do to bring good-paying jobs to the 2nd District, career opportunities that provided a way to build generational wealth. Bracy said lack of those opportunities is driving some people out of the district. When I talk to parents and they send their kids off to college and they drop their kids off, the one thing that they just about all know is that none of their kids are coming home because they dont have opportunities at home, Bracy said. Theyre moving to other communities where they can thrive. We need to make sure if our children leave our communities its because they want to leave. Its not because they have to leave. Bracy said public officials have a responsibility to ensure the states use of taxpayer dollars to recruit industry produces the intended results. We offer incentives for these companies to locate in our communities and we need to make sure that theyre providing opportunities for the citizens of those communities, Bracy said. The moderators noted that about one-fourth of Alabama children live in poverty. They asked the candidates what they would do about food insecurity and other issues affecting the health and well-being of children. Gray said tackling those problems starts with providing opportunities and affordable housing for parents. We understand that the wellness of the child also depends on the mother and the father, making sure theyre well, Gray said. Being able to have a good job. Being able to have adequate housing. And we can do things like affordable housing through HUD to make sure that we subsidize housing for people of low incomes. Theres many people who have cars that are going to work each and every day but they dont have a home, Gray said. Theyre homeless. We have a population who are functioning but they are homeless. Theyre driving, theyre working. Sometimes theyre bathing at recreational centers and outdoor facilities. So how do we create a home for those people? The candidates were generally in agreement on most of the questions and issues. The biggest differences emerged on the question about the importance of whether a candidate lives in the district and whether the residency issue has received too much attention or not enough. Figures said he was proud to be born and raised in Mobile, part of the district. He said voters will ultimately decide the importance of the residency issue. I think being from the district and being raised in the district, educated in the district, growing up in church in the district, I think it matters, Figures said. I think its something that voters do certainly care about significantly. Bracy, who grew up in Prichard, which is in the district, and served on the Prichard city council before his election to the Legislature in 2010, said the redrawn district is an opportunity for better representation for areas that he said have been overlooked in Washington. They never did anything for us, Bracy said. And I feel like this district is made up of a lot of communities that were struggling that needed somebody when we never had anybody. It was just like taxation without representation. We never had an opportunity to have federal representation. Now we finally do. So is it (residency) important? Yes, I think its important because we have people thats been on the ground in the good times and the bad times thats been right here in this community for a long time. Twenty years working in the community. Now we finally have an opportunity to have a seat at the table to have someone represent the communities that have been overlooked. Coleman, who is from Jefferson County, which is outside the district, said voters mainly want a representative who has shown they can be effective. As I have traveled the district, not one citizen has actually asked me that question (about residency), Coleman said. Its only been politicos. Im the one, as I do my listening sessions, I put it out there. What folks have said to me is they want somebody with experience and that has a track record of production for Congressional District 2. And as a 22-year member of the Legislature, my footprint is all over Congressional District 2. And I will continue to fight for congressional district 2, whether Im elected or not, just like I have for the past 22 years, Coleman said. Givan, who represents a Birmingham district in the House, said she would move to the 2nd District if elected. Givan said there are sound reasons why there is not a district residency requirement for members of Congress. We deal in the United States Congress on issues that are universal, Givan said. That is why there is no residency requirement for a man to represent the United States as its president because he will represent all 50 states. No one expects him to live in all 50 states. But he will live at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue to represent the people throughout the 50 states. I believe that I can represent the people of this congressional district because Ive already been fighting for the people in all of these 13 counties throughout this congressional district. And I will continue to do so. Gray said he thinks it is important that he has represented Russell County, which is in the district, for six years, and has relationships with local officials and people in the community. When we think about someone that has invested in the community, essentially thats the person should be an advocate for that community as a congressperson, Gray said. Were going to go around the district making promises, at the end of the day. And when its all said and done, one person is going to win. And at the end of the day, whether its me or someone else, Ill still represent Russell County, Ill still be bringing resources to District 2. Grays legislative district, House District 83, also includes Lee County, which is not in District 2. He said he moved his permanent residence from Opelika, in Lee County, to Phenix City, in Russell County, to run for the congressional seat. He said he promised from the beginning of the campaign that he would move into the district and that it is important that he can vote in the district. Ive kept that promise to the people of the 2nd Congressional District while still keeping my promises to the people of the 83rd and Im grateful to be able to do so and be in service to each one, Gray said. This story was edited at 12:12 p.m. to say that Napoleon Bracy lives in Saraland and that Jeremy Gray moved from Opelika to Phenix City. This story was edited on Feb. 23 to say that there are seven Republican candidates in the race, not eight, as the story said previously. A white former Montgomery police officer convicted in the 2016 shooting death of a Black man will soon be getting out of prison. A Dale County jury in 2019 convicted Aaron Cody Smith, 31, of manslaughter in the death of 59-year-old Gregory Gunn after an encounter in a Montgomery neighborhood on Feb. 25, 2016. A judge sentenced Smith to 14 years in prison. Smith is incarcerated at Limestone Correctional Facility. The Alabama Supreme Court in 2022 rejected Smiths appeal, and he filed a Rule 32 petition challenging his conviction. Earlier this month, The Alabama Attorney Generals Office took over the case from the Montgomery County District Attorneys Office with no explanation. Smiths Rule 32 petition was granted on Wednesday, and Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced he had reached a plea agreement with Smith. Mr. Smith pleaded to manslaughter and will now be released from prison on time served, according to Marshalls press release. It was not immediately clear when Smith will be released. Montgomery County District Attorney Daryl Bailey issued this statement following todays plea. I am happy that this convicted killer finally confessed to intentionally killing Greg Gunn. If he had done that in 2016 it would have saved a lot of time and money. I am very disappointed that he is being released early, which is a privilege not afforded to most convicted killers. Marshall said the case first came to his office on appeal in 2020. Despite my personal misgivings about the strength of the case against Mr. Smith, my office successfully defended the conviction in accordance with our statutory duty, he said. I then watched as the case went on to the Alabama Supreme Court and back again to the trial court late last year. Marshall said he believed Smith should get a new trial. But after eight years of watching this protracted litigation, I exerted my authority to bring this case to a close, he said. Mr. Smith has pleaded guilty to the offense for which he was convicted, in exchange for returning to his family. I believe that this is a fair and appropriate outcome. Marshall said he spent time last week with the Gunn family. I am acutely aware of the pain and suffering theyve experienced with the loss of their brother, the attorney general said. My heart goes out to them. I hope that they are able to find some closure and healing with this matter finally resolved. My heart also goes out to the Smith family, Marshall said. Mr. Smith chose an honorable career of protecting the public and his life was shattered in an instant a reality that all law enforcement officers today live in fear of. He has paid a high price. It is time for him to go home. Montgomery police officer Aaron Cody Smith, center, arrives at a court hearing in Montgomery in March 2016. According to the Court of Criminal Appeals account summarized in one of the Supreme Court justices written opinions, Gunn was on patrol in a high-crime neighborhood about 3 a.m. when he encountered Gunn, 58, who was walking. Smith stopped Gunn for a pat-down. Gunn initially complied but broke away and ran. Smith called for backup and tried unsuccessfully to stop Gunn with his Taser and his baton. Gunn ran onto the front porch of a home. When Smith pursued, Gunn charged at Smith with a painters pole. Smith shot and killed Gunn. An autopsy showed Gunn was shot at least seven times, including three in the chest. A Montgomery County grand jury indicted Smith for murder. His trial was moved to Dale County because of pretrial publicity. Smiths lawyers argued during the trial that Smith shot Gunn in self-defense and in the line of duty as a police officer. Prosecutors said the evidence did not support the claim that Gunn posed a deadly threat to Smith. Though indicted on a murder charge, the jury found Smith guilty on the lesser charge of manslaughter. Scottsboro police say an Austell, Ga. woman is being held in the Jackson County Jail on $35,000 bond after she posed as a deputy as part of a fraud. And investigators believe the case is tied to others in Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Lt. Ryan Putman of Scottsboro police said a victim reported on Dec. 8 last year that they had been contacted by someone identifying themselves as a deputy sheriff from a nearby county agency. The victim was told to bring $3,500 in cash to meet a bondsman at the Jackson County Courthouse square or face arrest. The victim met a woman in the square and paid the money. The victim came to Scottsboro Police shortly after and filed a report, Putman said. The woman who met with the victim was later identified as Ciara Cachay Gay, Putman said. She has been charged with first degree property theft and impersonating a police officer. Putman said the woman has been charged with similar crimes in Georgia and Florida, and Scottsboro investigators are still being contacted by other agencies in connection with the crime. When its all said and done, this is going to be extensive, Putman said. The House County and Municipal Government Committee approved a bill that makes removing local public library members easier -- with an amendment to ensure cause for removal. After public comment and discussion among committee members, the committee passed an amended version of Sen. Chris Elliotts (R-Baldwin County) SB10 bill. Rep. Sam Jones (D-Mobile) added an amendment that a library board member must be removed with cause. Public comment took up most of the meeting, with nine people speaking. Most were opposed to the bill or urged caution from lawmakers in considering it. Librarian Jessica Hayes spoke on behalf of the hundreds of public library employees who couldnt attend this hearing. Some are busy keeping your districts libraries open, ensuring your voters have access to Wi-Fi, job placement training, technological equipment, tutoring services and childrens programming. Others cant attend because they have been intimidated into silence. Hayes said the bill will force library boards to align with a governing bodys political agenda. Hayes also opposed the removal of staggered terms from the bill, which would disrupt library operations as it removes experience, institutional knowledge, which is important and vital to the library operations. Lee Farrow, chair of Auburn University at Montgomerys history and world cultures department, warned the committee the bill would politicize and threaten the autonomy of library boards. The argument that if people want to access certain books, they can buy them themselves is a fallacious argument, Farrow said. Not everyone can afford to buy all the books that they want their children to read. And this is why we have public libraries in the first place. Autauga-Prattville library director Andrew Foster said there have been inaccuracies in the perception of libraries. Prattville is at the center of book challenges statewide. The majority of the board resigned in the last few months due to how the county commission appointed members without the boards approval and new policies banning minors access to LGBTQ books. Foster said this lack of continuity has hurt the library and caused many problems as staff educate the new board on library basics and the librarys purpose. When considering this bill, and considering all this legislation, please reach out to your local libraries, go speak to the directors, the boards, the employees, and communicate with them about both what is already being done to address these things that were having conversations about right now, Foster said. Adam Rotenberry spoke against the bill. I found it pitifully ironic that the party of small government is always trying to inject itself into places that it doesnt agree with, Rotenberry said. He said this bill is a way to fight off this evil, imaginary foe with the woke agenda.To tell people that the library is secretly indoctrinating children or perverting their minds is a slap in the face to people with common sense. Prattville resident Lori Herring with Eagle Forum spoke in favor of the bill. This bill is not about the books that are present or not present in the library. It is not about the philosophy clash about what is censorship or isnt censorship. Herring said. It deals with the powers of the local governments to be able to control their own appointments to their own boards. Herring said that without this accountability, unelected members can carry out any kind of indoctrination policies with impunity. The local appointing body has the right and responsibility to discern, determine who has the best qualities to become their librarians. This should not be handed down from on high because not every person fits the cookie cutter mold that the colleges send out. There are a lot of us with life experiences that also matter a whole lot. After discussing the bill section that removed staggered terms, Jones brought up the issue of removing board members without cause. As a former Mobile mayor, he said he wouldnt just fire people for no reason. Elliott was concerned adding cause to the bill could bring up potential litigation. Rep. Danny Crawford (R-Limestone County) said he was surprised that having a cause to remove a board member wasnt already in the legislation. The amendment passed with several committee members giving a dissenting vote. The second amendment passed unanimously and added that the annual report of actions taken by the board also be sent to the respective appointing authorities. Angie Hayden of the group Read Freely Alabama, who also spoke against the bill, said the amendment is the best we could hope for. The bill will move to the full House. The school board president in Huntsville says the Alabama Ethics Commission declined to investigate allegations that he violated state law by voting to change the school districts nepotism statute in 2021. Ryan Renaud, the board president, released a statement today saying that the Alabama Ethics Commission closed the case without opening an investigation because the complaint did not constitute a violation of Alabamas ethics laws for public officials. AL.com has requested comments from Tom Albritton, the director of the Ethics Commission. In the news release, Renaud described the complaint, which was filed against him in December by former school district employee Keith Ward, as a distraction. In the complaint, Ward alleged that Renaud should not have voted to change the school districts policy because he stood to personally benefit from the change. The board voted 4-1 to approve the change, which allows board members to have immediate family members employed by the district. At the time, Renaud was engaged to a teacher in the district. And under the old nepotism policy, board members couldnt have immediate family members employed by the school district. Renauds wedding occurred three months after his vote, Ward said in the complaint. At the time the complaint was led, I had stated that Keith Wards assertions were baseless and without merit, Renaud said in the release. This was a distraction by Mr. Ward and another individual to keep us from doing our number one job, providing our children with a world-class education. I am pleased to put this issue behind us. Reacting to the Ethics Commissions decision, Ward, who was the school districts communications director for over 20 years before he retired in 2019, told AL.com hes disappointed there wont be accountability. My thing is, people who are elected or appointed in positions to serve really need to keep one fundamental thing in mind, and thats to do what is right, Ward told AL.com. The Alabama Supreme Court reached the correct decision when it ruled that frozen embryos are children, according to Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley. Embryos, to me, are babies, the former South Carolina governor told NBC News in a story published Wednesday. When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about to me, thats a life. The 8-1 decision finding that frozen embryos are people under the states Wrongful Death of a Minor Act sent shock waves across the country when the all-Republican court ruled that three couples can sue for wrongful death when their embryos were destroyed by an Alabama hospital patient. Advocates for in vitro fertilization warned that the ruling has dire consequences for the procedures future in Alabama. On the heels of the ruling, UAB Hospital paused IVF treatments amid concerns over being prosecuted. Haley, who had her son through artificial insemination, said the impact on IVF treatments is something that needs to be looked at. I think that we have to have those conversations. Thats incredibly personal, its incredibly sensitive, and I think thats a conversation the doctor needs to have with the patient, she said. Never underestimate the importance of the relationship between doctor and patient when theyre doing any of that. Some $1.2 billion in student loans held by almost 153,000 borrowers are being dismissed through a program for people who have been making payments for at least a decade, the White House announces today. The dismissals cover people enrolled in Saving on a Valuable Education plan that covers those who borrowed $12,000 or less and have been making payments for at least 10 years. Some 7.5 million borrowers are now enrolled in SAVE, 4.3 million of whom have monthly payments of zero, according to a release from the Department of Education. With todays announcement, we are once again sending a clear message to borrowers who had low balances: if youve been paying for a decade, youve done your part, and you deserve relief, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said. READ MORE: Student loan forgiveness: Parents would have billion in loan debt forgiven under new proposal For borrowers to be eligible for forgiveness, they must be enrolled in the SAVE Plan, have been making at least 10 years of payments and have originally taken out $12,000 or less for college. For every $1,000 borrowed above $12,000, a borrower can receive forgiveness after an additional year of payments and all those on the SAVE plan can receive forgiveness after 20 or 25 years, depending on whether the loans were for an undergraduate or graduate degree. The administration began sending emails today to those who are approved for forgiveness and do not need to take further action. In the future, borrowers who meet the criteria for forgiveness under SAVE will have their loans automatically discharged. You can sign up for SAVE here. Looking for a good time -- a cocktail at a reasonable price, bars that stay open late, hotels that dont require taking out a 401K loan? Weve got just the place. And it isnt Alamogordo, New Mexico. No, according to a recent study, the best party city in the U.S. is Atlantic City, N.J. -- but an Alabama city isnt too far behind. BonusFinder.com, a website with a focus on casinos, collected data on more than 100 U.S. cities across 11 different categories, including bars, music events, cost of hotel rooms, average drink price and more. The number of bars, hotels, nightclubs, casinos, strip clubs and late night food venues were calculated per 10,000 residents. Unsurprisingly, nine Florida cities made their way into the top 50, including the usual suspects Miami Beach, Key West and Miami. New Orleans, Atlanta and Baton Rouge all made the top 20, as well. But the city at #16 might be a surprise: Mobile, Alabama. The Port City got high marks for average drink prices and average price of hotel rooms, as well as last call at the bar -- reflective of how late bars stay open. On a 10-point scale, Mobile graded out at 7.4, just behind Newark, N.J., but just ahead of Tampa, Fla. (Note: each city started with a score of 5.0 in each category). Heres how Mobile scored across the 11 categories: Music events: 5.05 Bars: 5.06 Hotels: 5.32 Nightclubs: 5.11 Average price of a drink: 8.82 Average price of a hotel room: 9.45 Casinos: 5.00 Late night food venues: 5.14 Strip clubs: 5.36 Average cost of a ride from the airport to city center: 7.54 Last call at the bar: 10 Mobile wasnt the only Alabama city to make the top 100. Birmingham placed 41st on the list, with an overall score of 6.9, just behind Tulsa, Okla., and just ahead of Flagstaff, Ariz. Like Mobile, Birmingham scored well for average drink price and average hotel room cost, but fared less well for last call. Heres how Birmingham scored across the 11 categories: Music events: 6.9 Bars: 5.21 Hotels: 5.38 Nightclubs: 5.06 Average price of a drink: 7.46 Average price of a hotel room: 9.8 Casinos: 5.0 Late night food venues: 5.3 Strip clubs: 5.4 Average cost of a ride from airport to city center: 9.41 Last call at bar: 6.0 As noted, Atlantic City took the top spot as the best party city, followed by Miami Beach. The rest of the top 10: Hoboken, N.J.; Key West, Fla.; Miami, Fla.; Las Vegas, N.V.; Baton Rouge, La.; New Orleans, La.; Reno, Nev.; Shreveport, La. One other fun fact: Coming in dead last, at #101, was New York City. The University of Alabama at Birmingham health system has paused in vitro fertilization procedures following an Alabama Supreme Court decision due to fear of criminal prosecution and lawsuits, a spokeswoman said. A statement emailed by UAB spokeswoman Hannah Echols said they are saddened for patients who want to have babies through IVF. She said patients can continue the process up through egg retrieval, but fertilization and embryo development is paused for now. The process, which involves fertilizing eggs outside the body and then transferring embryos to the womb, accounts for about 2 percent of births in the United States, according to RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association. The UAB Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility made the move after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos had the same status as children in wrongful death lawsuits. We must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments, Echols wrote in the email. A majority of justices on the Alabama Supreme Court, in a decision released Friday, ruled that fertilized eggs and embryos have the same status as children. The opinion referred to embryos, which are often stored in cryogenic freezers, as extrauterine children. There are many reasons families turn to IVF treatment. Some women may have blocked fallopian tubes that wont allow fertilized eggs to travel to the uterus. In other cases, families can carry genes that cause fatal diseases and may want to create embryos that can be tested. In those cases, families will transfer healthy embryos and may discard or donate those that carry genetic diseases. Medical experts warned the decision could limit access to IVF in Alabama. UAB is the first clinic to announce that it is pausing the procedure while officials evaluate potential legal consequences. We are absolutely heartbroken for the Alabama family building community, said Barbara Collura, President and CEO of RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, in a statement. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) health system the largest healthcare system in the state has been forced to make an impossible decision: pause IVF procedures for those hoping to build their families, or put their patients and doctors at risk of prosecution. The decision came less than a week after the Alabama Supreme Court released its ruling. This cruel ruling, and the subsequent decision by UABs health system, are horrifying signals of whats to come across the country, Collura said. We will continue to fight to maintain and increase access to care for the 1 in 6 adults nationwide who struggle with infertility. The case came about after three families in Mobile sued a fertility clinic and hospital in 2020. All three families had frozen embryos that were destroyed when a patient from the hospital walked into the storage area, removed them from a cryogenic freezer and dropped them on the ground. A circuit court judge dismissed claims of wrongful death because he said the statute did not apply to frozen embryos. The Medical Association of the State of Alabama had filed a brief in the case saying that ruling that embryos could be considered children in wrongful deaths suits could severely limit access to fertility treatment. After UABs announcement, the association released a statement. The ruling has already forced UAB, the largest healthcare system in the State of Alabama, to stop providing IVF services to Alabama couples,the statement said. Others will likely do the same, leaving little to no alternatives for reproductive assistance. IVF is oftentimes the only option for couples wanting to conceive. In closing, we ask that the Alabama Supreme Court stay or revisit their ruling to ensure continued access to IVF care in Alabama. Eight judges on the Alabama Supreme Court overturned that ruling. The Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location, wrote Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell. [T]he Wrongful Death of a Minor Act is sweeping and unqualified. It applies to all children, born and unborn, without limitation. It is not the role of this Court to craft a new limitation based on our own view of what is or is not wise public policy. That is especially true where, as here, the People of this State have adopted a Constitutional amendment directly aimed at stopping courts from excluding unborn life from legal protection. The executive board of the United Auto Workers (UAW) is pumping $40 million over the next two years to fund its organizing push among non-union auto and electric battery workers, concentrating some of the money in the South. In a statement, the union said it will spend the money in response to an explosion in organizing activity among non-union auto and battery workers, in order to meet the moment and grow the labor movement. The announcement signals a significant commitment not just to traditional auto manufacturing, but the growing electric vehicle market. Earlier this year, UAW announced significant union membership at Mercedes-Benzs Tuscaloosa County plant in Vance, and at Hyundais Montgomery plant. The union also announced it has signed a majority of employees at Volkswagen AGs Tennessee plant in Chattanooga. According to the union, about 10,000 people have joined at several auto plants as part of its ongoing drive. In the next few years, the electric vehicle battery industry is slated to add tens of thousands of jobs across the country, and new standards are being set as the industry comes online, the union said in a statement. These jobs will supplement, and in some cases largely replace, existing powertrain jobs in the auto industry. Through a massive new organizing effort, workers will fight to maintain and raise the standard in the emerging battery industry. The organizing effort has come in Southern states which have traditionally resisted organizing efforts, and has not gone unnoticed by state and business leaders. Last month, Gov. Kay Ivey said the union push by the UAW means that Alabamas model for economic success is under attack. This week, Alabamas commerce secretary, Ellen McNair, said the unionization drive places our states main economic driver in the crosshairs. The CEO of the Business Council of Alabama CEO Helena Duncan announced a website, Alabama Strong, online advertisements, and a campaign to provide Alabamians with a full and thorough picture of the economic dangers that unionization presents, as Duncan stated in an op-ed. Angel Perez paints a golden dragon for the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade on Tuesday while inside a warehouse at Pier 54. The annual parade will include 19 floats, with contractor the Parade Guys creating 18 of them. Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle Past float decorations for the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade are stored inside a warehouse at Pier 54. Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle Organizers of the largest Chinese New Year parade outside of Asia offered a glimpse Tuesday of some of the 19 floats that will ring in the Year of the Dragon alongside grand marshal Awkwafina in San Francisco on Saturday. The citys annual Lunar New Year parade, organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of San Francisco, is the largest of its kind outside of Asia, say organizers. The approximately 5,000 tickets for the parade, which range from $41 to $70, have sold out. Lunar New Year 2024: Celebrate the Year of the Dragon in the Bay Area Advertisement Article continues below this ad A dragon design for the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade is seen inside a warehouse at Pier 54 on Tuesday. The parade will be held Saturday in San Francisco. Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle With it being the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese Zodiac calendar, the dragon theme carries throughout the parades design. The highlight will be a 288-foot dragon puppet that will be animated by dozens of performers from Leungs White Crane Dragon and Lion Dance Association, said parade director Harlan Wong. The Chinese New Year parade and related festivities are a way to recognize the impact that the Chinese American community has had on the city, William Gee, a parade spokesperson, said in a news release. San Francisco-based contractor the Parade Guys designed 18 of the 19 floats. Owner and director Stephanie Mufson, in charge of the show for nearly a decade, said that while the actual parade production typically begins in November, the planning begins months earlier. Flo Korkames of the Parade Guys varnishes the Salesforce float for the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade on Tuesday. The Parade Guys is creating 18 of the 19 floats. Yalonda M. James/San Francisco Chronicle There are people who are literally working year-round on this, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mufson noted that the dragon, in Asian culture, is a symbol of peace and harmony. Its not like in European lore its mean and its scary, its angry, its breathing fire, its like something to be afraid of, she said. These guys are harbingers of goodness. This is a guest opinion column In a recent column, John Archibald wrongly recommends fighting de facto segregated schools in Alabama by keeping Black, brown, and low-income students trapped in them. Instead, as advocates for empowering families and ensuring equitable access to quality education, we believe its time to address the pressing need for school choice options. Mr. Archibald highlights the demographic shift in Birmingham City Schools, where only 1% of students are White. This statistic underscores a harsh reality: those with means, typically White families, have already sought alternatives through suburban or private schools. Meanwhile, remaining Black, brown, and low-income students, whose parents cannot afford such options, are left behind in underperforming schools. Students in these schools deserve more than a plan that simply doubles down on the same systems that failed these same students in the first place. It is essential to recognize, first, that the desire for school choice is not limited to a particular political ideology. In fact, 73 percent of Black Democrats support school choice. Black mothers, in particular, are growing tired of waiting for change. They want the best for their children, and they are rightfully demanding options that meet their childrens unique needs. Moreover, the demographics of students benefiting from school choice programs nationwide are telling. Seventy percent of students in public charter schools are Black, and Black families represent the fastest-growing group within the homeschooling movement. In Alabama the limited school choice options we do have are used primarily by minority students. Its clear that Black and brown families are embracing school choice as a means to access a quality education that they feel traditional public schools are all too often failing to provide. Throughout history, Black school founders have been instrumental in providing educational opportunities where traditional systems fell short. Their actions exemplify self- determination, creating pathways for Black students to achieve academic success despite systemic barriers. This legacy underscores the value of diverse options within education, ensuring that every child has a chance to thrive, regardless of their background. And, more options are needed, especially since less than half of Birmingham third grade students are expected to pass the states reading assessment. Rather than perpetuating the racist legacies of redlining and white flight, we must prioritize solutions that ensure all children have access to the same opportunities. School choice programs, like the CHOOSE Act currently being debated in the Alabama Legislature, offer a lifeline to families trapped in schools that simply are not providing a chance at a better life. Contrary to bogus claims repeated by Mr. Archibald that ESAs drain state budgets, evidence from states like Arizona actually shows a budget surplus. The financial support provided by ESAs is only a portion of the amount the state would spend to keep a child in public school, even as it empowers parents to choose the educational environment best suited for their childs needs. Evidence from other states, like Florida, where Denisha resides, shows that a rising tide raises all boats; Florida has seen remarkable improvements in student outcomes and teacher pay since implementing statewide school choice initiatives. Critics may argue against school choice, but their privileged positions often betray their true beliefs. Mr. Archibald himself chose not to enroll his children in Birmingham City High Schools, indicating a lack of confidence in the very system he defends. Our experiences, both as mothers and advocates, drive us to fight for increased education options for all children, just like Mr. Archibald had, regardless of race or socioeconomic status. After her own life-changing experience benefitting from Floridas school choice programs, Denisha founded and now leads Black Minds Matter, which underscores the importance of celebrating Black excellence and advocates for high-quality educational opportunities. As a mom residing in Birmingham, questions about education quality and safety hit close to home for Elizabeth. Her upbringing, being homeschooled before attending a small rural public school then moving five hours from home to attend high school at a selective enrollment public school, mirrors the choices many families seek today. School choice is not a luxury but a necessity for Black, brown, and low-income students striving for academic success. Its time to prioritize empowerment over perpetuating failing systems. Lets heed the voices of parents demanding better for their children and embrace policies that promote equity, excellence, and opportunity for all. Elizabeth Beshears is the National Director of Communications Strategy for the American Federation for Children and the AFC Growth Fund. Denisha Allen is a Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children and Founder of Black Minds Matter. I am old enough to remember when it was considered a disgrace to even countenance the idea American could lose a war. Under Joe Biden, losing a war is a regular occurrence. Vlad Putin took a victory lap in our latest defeat, the Ukraine War, by ruthlessly killing one of his few living Russian opponents -- Alexei Navalny. Joe Biden promised there would be reprisals if Navalny died back in 2021, but of course, that was an empty threat. Instead, buoyed by cynical regimes from China to India to North Korea willing to break international sanctions, Putins terror state keeps on humming. Ukraines year-long offensive ran out of steam in the fall, just as I predicted. The Biden administration got way behind on weapon deliveries to Ukraine. There was already a huge ammo problem this summer when funds were supposedly in place. All Bidens people have now is the ridiculous supplemental military aid package. This has billions of dollars more in humanitarian aid for Palestine as the price for helping Israel. No actions to secure our own borders, and just enough money to keep Ukraine fighting, but not defeating Russia, for another year. Long-requested weapons that once might have made a difference, from F-16 jets to ATACMS missiles, are still nowhere to be found. In other words, our strategy is to fight another no-win war, much as the Democrats ran the Korean and Vietnam wars of the 20th century, or later, the Afghanistan War. Back in 2019, Donald Trump was impeached for wanting answers from Ukraines new president about the corrupt payoffs to Joe Bidens family and briefly held up lethal military aid, to further this effort. Volodymyr Zelensky tried to play it both ways; saying he had no problem with Trump, who unlike his predecessor Obama, was sending him massive amounts of weaponry to defend his country. But otherwise, not engaging on the issue. In 2020, when the whole Hunter Biden laptop scandal broke, showing the scale of the Biden crime familys foreign payday racket, Zelensky was conspicuously silent. Had he stepped up back then and started talking about how Biden blackmailed Ukraine to fire Viktor Shokin, the highly-regarded man investigating Burisma, it would have destroyed Old Joes presidential run. Instead, he kept his mouth shut while Biden was elected, leaving Biden to resume Obamas policy of delaying weapons shipments, encouraging Putin to think he could invade Ukraine with impunity, especially after Bidens insane comments about a minor incursion. That didnt work out so well for any of them. Zelensky lost big chunks of his country; Putins incompetent soldiers were shot to pieces, once U.S. aid belatedly arrived; and Biden had yet another fiasco to go with his growing collection. Recently, Speaker Mike Johnson took my advice on further military appropriations -- trade Ukraine money for real border security. This was absolutely the right strategy. Biden and his people have complete contempt for our country and cannot be allowed to simply wave along tens of millions of foreign freeloaders into our nation, as part of their Make America Lousy Again policy. Their bluff called, though, it looks like keeping the border open is all Democrats really care about. They wont compromise on that, even for their no-win war in Ukraine. The Europeans, who could easily fund Ukraine if they wanted, are not coming through either. The lefties all cheered when Polands Law and Justice party was defeated last year. But it still hasnt dawned on any of them that the conservative Poles were the best European allies Ukraine has. Under the current European alignment, Ukraine will now get plenty of lip service, but very little military support. One hopes that sensible D.C. Republicans, if there are any left, are explaining to Zelensky, as distasteful as this is, that its time to make a deal with Putin. Not a long-term one, nor one that recognizes border changes. Just some kind of cease-fire in place. Ordinary Ukrainians have fought and suffered enough. They dont have the manpower nor weapons to keep going. Putin is ruthlessly using human-wave attacks of his conscripts to gain ground. This human cannon fodder is not unlimited, but when alternated with Putins regular army attacks, it can wear down the Ukraine lines, such as was done at Avdiivka. What worries me most now is not the lost war in Ukraine, nor a possible Putin move against NATO. His army is an empty shell; losses in men and equipment are staggering. His economy is a joke, as anyone who can do so is leaving, in an enormous brain drain. Nikki Haley can relax -- Russia has launched its last war of aggression for decades to come. What ought to concern everyone is the next war Old Joe is in the process of confecting and then losing, in the Middle East. Joe, along with Tony Blinken and company, think the best policy there is to keep appeasing Iran. Part of this is due to all the Iranian spies working for the administration. But most of it is due to the fact that these are the stupidest people to ever hold power in our national government. Just last month they made a show of reversing the terrorist designation for the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, but not to worry, U.S. taxpayer aid to Yemen keeps flowing through NGOs. The same switcheroo Hamas has pulled for years in Gaza. Iran, through its missile shipments to Russia, has made Putin its junior partner in terror. Biden ended Trumps sanctions on Iran immediately after taking office and predictably, work on nuclear weapons has resumed in earnest. If serious sanctions cannot be imposed quickly or some kind of limited strike is not made on Irans nuclear facilities this year, then the next real shooting war between Iran on one side, and the Gulf States and Israel on the other, will go atomic. Lets pray Team Biden is not around for another four years to lose that war. Frank Friday is an attorney in Louisville, KY. Image: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service Years ago, Jay Leno hosted the Tonight Show. Some of the funniest videos were those when he questioned random people on the street about a topic. On several occasions, they asked people simple geography questions, and many couldnt name the country to our immediate north (Its Canada, for you Rush people in Rio Linda.) or to our south. Undoubtedly, Leno didnt show every response of those questioned but those he did were hilarious. Many people couldnt name the continents much less any country, not even the United States. More recently, Jimmy Kimmel has taken up the quest to find ignorant Americans. In reality, their answers arent funny. That lack of knowledge helps explain much of why people think as they do -- theyre ignorant on most topics. That said, we can learn a great deal from maps. Assuming you can read maps, we immediately see that Asia is a very large landmass, the same with Africa. Also, most of the earths surface is water (70%), and the Pacific Ocean is huge. Consider the world map produced by the European Intelligence Unit (EIU) in 2023, that shows authoritarian countries. The EIUs map color codes countries by their level of authoritarianism, the darker the color, the more its a dictatorship/authoritarian. The lighter the color, the more freedom it enjoys. Not surprising, all Middle East (ME) countries, except one, are very dark, meaning that they are authoritarian/dictatorships, Iran being one of the worst. The exception is Israel, the lone ME country that enjoys Western-type freedoms. Now, guess which countries our American Dems and leftists support? Thats correct overwhelmingly, they support authoritarian countries, especially the Muslim countries. Biden left billions in military equipment when he surrendered Afghanistan. Now, Biden is working hard to give $$$ billions to Iran to fund terrorism, and 31 Harvard student groups openly support Palestinian Muslims in their efforts to destroy Israel. Additionally, China is extremely authoritarian and Biden (along with Hunter) has cozied up to them. T he LGBTQ+@- crowd votes exclusively Democrat and completely supports every leftist policy without question to include abortion on demand, transgenderism advanced to all ages, gay/lesbian books in childrens libraries, etc. Also, Dems and their LGBTQ+ minions openly support Palestinians against Jews and Israel. It just so happens that the ILGA (International Lesbian, Gay Association) produced a map. Their map indicates countries where the government discriminates against, executes, prosecutes, and/or persecutes lesbians, gays, transgenders, etc. Guess which countries are most likely to persecute gays, lesbians, etc.? Thats correct, far and away, Islamic countries target homosexuals. From Morocco to Gaza to Bangladesh, Muslim countries prosecute gays and lesbians. Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Iran, Somalia, and Mauritania (Muslim countries all) execute gays. Gays live harmoniously in Israel, yet are subject to arrest (10-year sentence) in Gaza. Queer Muslims in Gaza actually flee to Israel for sanctuary. This makes you question the sanity of gays/lesbians who support Palestinians knowing Muslims would likely arrest them if they ever visited Gaza. Repeat after me, liberalism is a mental illness." Next consider the world map that shows female oppression and treatment of women. You name the oppressive practice against women from female genital mutilation, to female child marriages (forcing girls as young as eight-years old to marry men decades their senior), lack of female property rights, legal status of polygamy (men allowed to marry multiple women, not the other way around), differences in male-female life expectancy, required dress codes for women, domestic violence against women, and on and on; guess what countries are at the bottom of almost every category that measures female quality of life? Again, the 12 worst countries for women are Muslim. Actually, every ME and African country, except one, is at the bottom of almost every category. The lone exception is Israel. Now, what ME country are many Democrat lawmakers against? If you guessed Israel, give yourself a gold star. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Cori Bush (D-MO), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), OAC (D-NY) and many other prominent Democrats have openly sided with Palestinian Muslims (and all Muslims for that matter) over Israel. Consider two final world maps - maps of religious persecution. First is the map of countries that persecute Christians. Persecution involves oppression, often imprisonment in Gulags, and targeting with violence and death by terrorist groups and government officials. North Korea is the most brutal and oppressive country towards Christians. The next nine are the Muslim countries of Somalia, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Sudan, Iran, Pakistan, Eritrea, and Nigeria. Considering that the United States has spent trillions of dollars and thousands of American lives trying to help many of those Christian-hating countries (Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan come to mind) makes me question why we give a single dime to any Arab/Muslim/Islamic country. As for countries that persecute Jews, its even worse; the top-10 anti-Semitic counties are all Islamic. Eighty years ago, most Muslim countries had tens of thousands of Jews. Today, most Islamic countries, you can count the Jews on your fingers. Those countries have committed genocide against Jews. Now, guess the countries that routinely hold large rallies where they chant death to America, where they call the United States the great Satan, and Israel little Satan. Thats correct, many Middle East countries hold such rallies while happily accepting $$$billions in foreign aid. Yes, our Washington politicians are that stupid. Islamic countries are the most authoritarian, oppressive countries in the world. So why do our Biden and Dems adamantly support Muslims over Israel -- the lone westernized country in the Middle East? Could it be the Dems support authoritarian regimes because they strive to that end? Image: Michael Weinold On Thursday, February 15, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters that Russia is developing space-based attack capability using nuclear weapons. Putin has been intimating the development of just such a weapon since at least 2007. Yet it is only recently that U.S. national security officials and lawmakers have grown concerned. Based on recent news reports, Kirby suspects that this is related to some Russian anti-satellite capability being developed. Kirby insists that we are not talking about a weapon that can be used to ... cause physical destruction here on Earth. Yet back in the aughts, Kremlin publications commissioned by Vladimir Putin described just such a weapon, conceived specifically to disable and destroy American smart weapons and cyber-electronics. In this article, I will revisit an admittedly fictional account, but one that appears to incorporate a description of orbiting satellite weapons that are actually under development. Mikhail Yuryev is an author whom Putin often taps to write propaganda. Yuryevs book, Tretiya Imperiya (The Third Empire, Saint Petersburg: Konstantin Tublin Publishing House, 2007) is styled as political fiction, describing an alternate universe in which Soviet Russia is reborn in the twenty-first century as a world empire under Vladimir II the Restorer a thinly veiled reference to President Vladimir Putin. Basically, this novel describes Putins desired future world, in which he ascends to the throne as Emperor Gabriel I the Great, ruler of an autocratic, theocratic world empire, after first defeating the United States and then going on to conquer Europe. In Yuryevs novel, total war between Russia and the United States, called the Twelve-Day War, begins with a distraction campaign that includes the firing of missiles, in which U.S. forces are lured to the Indian Ocean. It is a trap. In the novel, ten Russian satellites equipped with powerful GMDV (electromagnetic pulse) generators are secretly in constant orbit, including one over the Bay of Bengal. It is of deep concern that GMDV bombs are included in this fictional Russian attack, for they apparently exist. According to Yuri Zaitsev, an academic adviser at the Russian Academy of Engineering Sciences, a group of Russian scientists from Tomsk, Yekaterinburg, Nizhny Novgorod, and Moscow has developed a series of unique, compact electromagnetic radiation generators capable of producing high-energy pulses of thousands of megawatts. These impulses can be generated as a product of a nuclear explosion with very high frequency in a matter of nanoseconds. Zaitsev claims that these electromagnetic pulses or EMPs are capable of putting out of action even those electronic control systems that have withstood the initial shockwave, reducing smart weapons to scrap metal. He explains their destructive effects: They induce voltage changes ranging from 100 volts to 10,000 volts in circuit networks and terminals of radio electronic equipment. The ensuing massive sparking ... [plus] breakdowns in connectors put the equipment out of action and lead to fires and explosions. The United States is said to be the first country to have used EMP generators in combat, in Afghanistan the typical manner in which the Russians give themselves permission to pursue the use of a particular weapon or strategy. In Yuryevs account, a coded signal leaves for Moscow. A second later, Moscow signals the satellite hovering overhead. The pulse fired from the satellite fries all electronics for tens of thousands of square miles, so that none of the American missiles hits its target. The obvious question is, how come, in the novel, the Russian weaponry continues to function after the EMPs are generated? The pulse is, after all, said to fry all electronics for tens of thousands of square miles. The answer may lurk in two innocuous published physics research articles. A candidate in physics and mathematics at South Ural State University, Aleksey Trukhanov, also a senior research fellow at the SUSU Nanotechnologies Research and Education Center, is studying electrolytic films in order to develop electromagnetic and magnetic shields capable of neutralizing electromagnetic pulses. He mentions two different articles, both published in the Journal of Alloys and Compounds: Correlation of the Synthesis Conditions and Microstructure for Bi-Based Electron Shields Production and a previous article, Electrochemical Deposition Regimes and Critical Influence of Organic Additives on the Structure of Bi Films. Both articles consider the use of Bismuth films in the production of materials capable of being used for protective shields against EMPs. As of September 2018, the electrolytic production of bismuth films had been optimized, and research was underway on the phase composition and microstructure parameters of these films; higher-density films were observed to be of more practical use. Commenting during a press conference on this fictional surprise attack in the novel, that is the commander-in-chief of the Russian Navy, Boris Fetisov, declares, We do not intend to declare war let the Americans announce it themselves, for the war between us has been going on for more than seventy years already. That sentiment is demonstrably Putins, for he has never acknowledged Russias defeat in the Cold War. Putin insists that we remain at war; he refuses to concede the Cold War to the West. As stated in his national ideology of Project Russia (Proyekt Rossiya, Moscow: EKSMO Press, 2006), Mammon [i.e., the consumerist United States] once again stands on the threshold ... [but] a new force will arise again, combining in itself all the good from the Soviet Union and the Empire. This force will be able to once again repel the enemy Mammon. In Yuryevs novel, on the very next day, thirty-six Russian Topol missiles of various modifications are launched against targets all over the United States. Gabriel the Great, AKA Putin, gives the U.S. president seven hours to surrender, which he does. The first phase of the Russian occupation of America is completed in a week. A month later, the major powers of Europe surrender without a fight all except for Germany. Upon Americas surrender, Germany congratulates Russia on its victory. By the time the other leaders of NATO are summoned to Moscow to surrender, Germany and Russia are allies. The launching of the thirty-six Russian Topol missiles against the United States in Yuryevs novel appears related to Putins 2000 doctrine, Nuclear De-Escalation. There exists a 1999 Russian military white paper, released under Putin as secretary of the R.F. Security Council. According to this study, nuclear de-escalation would entail the use of long-range nuclear weapons in the continental theater, including nuclear strikes by missile forces and artillery, aviation, and the use of nuclear engineering mines. It is worrisome that the authors proceed to admit, Nuclear strikes are divided into single, group, and massive, but it is very difficult to draw a clear line between them. The advice that follows in the white paper recalls the unprovoked strikes against stateside American naval bases, as envisioned by Mikhail Yuryev occurring during the fictional Twelve-Day War in his novel The Third Empire: Under certain conditions, de-escalation of hostilities may require single, grouped nuclear strikes against enemy targets located outside the zone of direct hostilities ... frightening the enemy with our willingness to go to mutual destruction [and] testing the strength of their nerve. ... [T]he fear of MAD will prevent the enemy from switching to using strategic offensive forces, forcing him to back off. Lynn Corum is a translator who studies developments in the press that affect Americas national interests. She has been researching and writing on Putins stated plans since 2009 and is a world expert on Project Russia, the Kremlins published state ideology. Image via Public Domain Pictures. February 21, 2024 is the 59th anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X. His life, political rhetoric, and death remain a growing source of misunderstanding about Black/White relations in the U.S. and even the global community. In recent years, much has been made of how two of the men convicted of his murder have been exonerated of the crime. The struggle to interpret this assassination 59 years later goes to the heart of an ideological battle between afro-pessmist and afro-idealist intellectual forces. Since the 1970s, afro-pessimist academics that construe Black people as victims have dominated American public discourse. The original beloved community espoused by leaders such as MLK and James Farmer Jr. has largely been pushed aside in favor of a more cynical discourse on race and even economic life in America. Thomas Hagan has never denied his role in killing Malcolm X. He played a role in exonerating the other two men convicted of the killing. After serving more than 40 years for the murder, Hagan was released from a New York jail in 2010 that was now located on Malcolm X Boulevard. Malcolm X has come to represent the new pessimist path forward on race relations imagining that his aspirations for a more militant political praxis were the untried solution to anti-Black discrimination. In reality, Malcolm X was assassinated because of his conscious and deliberate movement away from the violent rhetoric of the Nation of Islam and toward a more moderate view of race struggle comparable to the mainstream movements like those embodied by King and Farmer. Malcolm Xs longtime friend and debate sparring partner James Farmer Jr. discussed this reality in a 1987 lecture at Mary Washington University. Farmer explains that as a Muslim, Xs pilgrimage to Mecca revealed to him the outrageous falsehoods taught to him by Elijah Muhammad within the confines of the Nation of Islam. Malcolm X sent two postcards from Mecca to his friend James Farmer Jr., explaining his epiphany at uncovering the false teaching that only Black people worshipped at Mecca. The discovery that this was plainly untrue caused him in 1964 to become more deliberate in divorcing himself from the Nation of Islam. One week before his assassination and in one of his last public speeches on February 14 in Detroit, Malcolm X explained that he no longer believed in racial segregation and the radical ideology of NOI. Farmer had alerted him in 1962 that the Nation of Islam was activity conspiring with the American Nazi party to encourage racial segregation. Malcolm Xs effort to construct a moderate Muslim alternative to NOI remains important today. In January 2022, President Biden deliberately conflated the killing of Capitol police officer Billy Evans on April 2, 2021 with violence at the Capitol building on January 6, 2021. The killer of Officer Evans, Noah Green, also went by an alias of Noah X -- in deference to the false hagiography of Malcolm X. Green was profoundly inspired by the ongoing contemporary rhetoric of Nation of Islam under its radical and antisemitic leader, Louis Farrakhan. In Greens social media posts mere hours before the killing of the officer, he included videos from Farrakhan titled: The U.S. Government is the #1 enemy of Black people! along with other similarly themed videos from NOI. The anniversary of Malcolm Xs death increasingly regurgitates a false story about his assassination being a secret killing conducted by the federal government. Five years earlier, a killer named Micah Johnson was similarly inspired to kill five Dallas police officers in the summer of 2016. Studying rhetoric from the New Black Panther party, he came to conclude that assassinations were the best step forward for the Black community. These conspiracy theories are recycled even though Malcolm Xs killer is still alive and freed from prison. Hagan continues to warn the public about the dangers of groups like the Nation of Islam. The American public is increasingly encouraged to believe that more violent personal confrontations with police and policies of defunding the police will make Black lives matter more. The history of Black Americans is told with a faulty rhetorical posture of cynicism suggesting that King, Meredith, Farmer, and other conventional civil rights leaders largely failed in their efforts to fight anti-Black discrimination. On Christmas Eve 1964, Malcolm X confided to his friend, James Farmer Jr., that he was afraid to publicly admit that he was no longer in agreement with the Nation of Islam. He told Farmer that he was confident that members of the NOI were going to kill him soon. The week before his assassination, his house was burned down and in his speech at Detroit he clarified his separation from the Black Muslim movement. Those words undoubtedly added to the motive of men like Thomas Hagan to kill him a week later. As Americans we need to see beyond the clever political distinctions of Right and Left and recognize the problem obvious to the political rivals of Farmer and X, the opposed extremists of the American Nazi party and the Nation of Islam were cooperating to tear the nation apart in the name of permanently achieving racial segregation for their respective cynical political interests. The anniversary of Malcolm Xs assassination alongside Black history month should be an ongoing opportunity to reinvigorate our commitment to the ethic of love and a repudiation of violence shared by leaders such as James Farmer Jr., James Meredith, MLK, and Malcolm X. We should not imbibe faulty conspiracy theories in order to nurture hateful violent political grudges. Dr. Ben Voth is a professor of rhetoric and director of debate at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. In 2017, Professor Voth wrote a rhetorical history -- James Farmer Jr.: The Great Debater, detailing the relationship between Malcolm X and civil rights leader James Farmer. Image: National Archives My title refers to The Sting, the movie, and the piano ragtime classic, The Entertainer. Eight months ago, President Trump claimed he could settle the Russia/Ukraine war in 24 hours. The crowd cheered (even on CNN). Deep-state mouthpiece CNN and Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky sneered. How could Trump do it? Simple. Give the Zelensky administration a choice: (1) The new Trump admin traces the aid money flows and brings to justice any corrupt Ukrainian officials (no matter how high up they are) or (2) the war stops. Zelensky would immediately agree to end the war. Russia's president, Vladimir Putin, would also agree because it would end a war in which the enemies (Ukraine, the E.U., and Biden America) have had a secondary (primary?) goal of breaking up Russia. Carbon-rich Russia still needs several years to regroup and rebuild before hitting back at save-the-world-from-carbon Europe. The Ukrainian entertainer About a month ago Zelensky met with reporters from the Baltics (watch with Google translate; note that Raschist (Russian fascist) is incorrectly translated as racist). The only hardball question was the last one about Republican concerns about Ukrainian theft of foreign aid in the last two minutes of the video. Zelensky gave a bizarre, rambling, Biden-style response, ending with the promise that when Ron DeSantis retires, Zelensky will help him financially. The question about the foreign aid "sting" (or con job as the word was used in the movie) obviously rattled the entertainer to the core. No wonder Putin often mockingly referred to pre-war Zelensky as merely a good entertainer and actor. He quickly ended the press conference and left. Not a word about corruption. Putin, the beloved leader of the Russian majority, is a cold-blooded killer, which is one of the few things Biden ever got right. But he is nobodys fool. Fools (especially naive or senile ones) get you into trouble. Just after he became president, Zelensky wanted to talk man-to-man with Vlad. What an idiot. Weakness or civility are no bargaining chips with cold-blooded killers. The naive, foolish, and reckless behavior of the entertainer, and NATO, the EU, and the Biden administration, helped start the war that could have been avoided. What is this so-called Ukrainian freedom Zelensky loves to talk about? A Brit in a wild Hawaii shirt exposed it for the fantasy it is, better than any think tank intellectual ever could. Freedom from Russia? Yeah, right, tell that to Ukraines atomic energy boss who wants to spend $600 million to buy Russian nuclear reactors (just another Ukraine government official taking Russian bribes). Zelensky wont talk about corruption because it exposes the scam, the sting, the fantasy world in which third world Ukraine teams up with the dictatorial E.U. and the corrupt Biden admin against Republican America. I lived and worked for years in Russia, China, and Germany. In each country, I spent years learning the language, after which I could no longer listen to the filthy official narratives of the state-run media. Germanys incessant, sick comparisons of Trump to Hitler in 2016 was the worst. The vast majority of Germans were (are) like (Austrian) Schwarzenegger, an entertainer and accomplished athlete (mental gymnast), who (on CNN of course) suggests that Trump is a source of Nazi-style hate while totally absolving his own for-real Nazi father from any guilt (my father and so many other millions of men were sucked into a hate system). Those poor master race sheep. A lot of Americans get in on the act too. Timothy Snyder, Ukraines beloved Yale historian, for whom Ukraine can do no wrong, gets on a lot of junkets to Kyiv for his reliably pro-Ukraine, anti-Trump mental gymnastics. But there is a small minority of Germans (usually older Germans who experienced Hitler Germany firsthand) who admit the truth about their history. And in Ukraine, there is a very small private sector deplorable YouTube press (that publishes only in Ukrainian) that is not afraid of exposing the truth about their homeland (although they all still hate or disapprove of Trump). Ukraines war against its deplorables A deplorable Ukrainian reporter recently discussed the Ukrainian governments decades-long war against Ukrainian journalists and the private sector. A war not unlike FDRs New Deal against private sector America. But during World War II, FDR let private sector America breathe (because he needed them). Ukraines private sector has gotten no war-time reprieve. About 100,000 Ukrainian siloviki (government enforcers, such as customs, tax police, etc.) and rights protectors (law enforcement agencies), rather than going to the front lines, wage a war of attrition against all of 30,000 systemic Ukrainian businesses. In another video, he talks about Zelensky demanding that EU countries send Ukrainians back to Ukraine to serve in and help finance the war. But Zelensky never talks about creating the conditions that would make them want to come back. This is all possible because Ukrainians have a very limited cultural heritage of freedom (Ukraine is not Argentina). They all still firmly believe in a government-run economy that they themselves know leads to massive corruption. The war-time free-for-all Alexander Savchenko, a former Ukrainian central bank official, explains how billions of dollars disappear from Ukrainian banks and nobody goes to jail (not unlike American bank bailouts). Oligarchs own judges, prosecutors, and politicians at the highest levels. Only an outside supersystem such as the E.U. or U.S.A. can stop this. He sums up the beauty of war: In extreme situations no conditions are made for financial assistance. No-war Trump really would annoy quite a few higher ups in Ukraine (and America). Even the Ukrainian manager of the VOA office for Eastern Europe says that Trump supporters (half of the Americans funding the VOA) blindly follow Trump and his constant rhetoric about no wars during his presidency. The end is near When the Western oligarchs backing this war realize they wont get to buy up Ukraine (or a broken-up Russia) on the cheap, it will all end. And just like that the war ended and everyone went home, as Forrest would say. Zelenskys inner circle will all move to posh homes in southern France. The borders will open for E.U./American-style population replacement. Ukraine will seek refuge from its endemic corruption and from future Russia harassment/invasion by joining the socialist E.U. and NATO. And maybe, just maybe, thanks to Trump forcing the E.U. socialists to grow up (note the defaced American flag), the 540 million E.U. citizens with a combined GDP eight times (!) that of Russia might decide to spend maybe 1% more of GDP to protect themselves from Russia. Maybe the only way to get Ukraine to grow up, to become something like Taiwan or Israel (the Davids that deal successfully with their Goliaths), is for Trump to do the same for Ukraine, to cut off the corruption lifeline? After all, for the Zelensky and Biden governments, isnt the massively profitable rampant corruption the real goal? In any case the new Russia, enjoying more private sector freedom and national unity thanks to the war, will take any measures against any future threats to its hegemony over all of Russian territory. Just like Washington, DC and its sister Democratic metropolises will take any measures against the deplorable American heartland (flyover territory that they dont fly over). Once comrade breadlines Bernie Sanders Peoples Democratic Party can get 51% of the vote count, the war will be over. And that could happen any time (as Forrest would say And just like that there were 20 million new voters!). The EU (with its unelected leaders) and the Ukrainians would welcome a one-party American state led by the Sanderistas (search for Bernie Sanders in that article). The Russians would shake their heads in disbelief at how the once mighty America (that obviously learned nothing from Russias own collapse) rotted from within. Image: Screen shot from VisualPolitik EN video, via YouTube Waymo, which operates a vast fleet of autonomous vehicles in a few cities, wants to expand its operations into the South Bay and Los Angeles. Ash Ponders/Special to The Chronicle The California Public Utilities Commission will hold off on deciding whether to allow Waymos driverless ride-hailing expansion to the Peninsula and Los Angeles County until at least mid-June. The commissions Consumer Protection and Enforcement Division issued the 120-day suspension of Waymos expansion request on Tuesday, meaning the state regulator wont vote on the issue until after June 19 at the earliest. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A CPUC spokesperson said the commission held the suspension to continue our staff review of Waymos application, though it did not elaborate. The commission approved Waymos commercial expansion in San Francisco in August. That application process had a timeline similar to the Alphabet-owned companys potential expansion to the Peninsula. It took about eight months for the CPUC to approve Waymos San Francisco expansion request, and the commission twice delayed its decision amid opposition from city officials. If commissioners sign off on Waymos request, the company will expand its driverless ride-hailing to 22 cities in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, with its service area spanning from San Francisco to Sunnyvale. Waymos expansion plans face resistance from officials in the Peninsula and Los Angeles County similar to San Franciscos opposition. Officials in those proposed expansion areas say theyre wary of the technologys impacts on local roads and want more local control. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Last week, San Mateo County supervisors endorsed a state bill that would give cities more control over how autonomous vehicles expand their services in their jurisdictions. Im not opposed to this technology. Driverless vehicles will likely be a big part of all of our futures, said David Canepa, a San Mateo County supervisor. Im just advocating for local control, because its the people living and working in their own communities who know the roads best. San Mateo officials said they were caught off guard when Waymo submitted its expansion request to the CPUC, which the company disputes. Waymo said it met with officials in 12 cities, as well as three county supervisors and emergency response agencies on the Peninsula before it filed its request. Waymo pushed back against local officials calls for delays and more input, arguing to the CPUC that their protests constitute impermissible attempts to relitigate issues the Commission has already decided and shouldnt carry influence in the regulators decision. Uh oh, the ailing octogenarian resident seen shuffing around the White House lawn from time to time finds himself in a bit of a quandary, thanks to the wokesters he hired to staff the federal bureaucracy. According to a new report out at The Washington Free Beacon on Monday, when the Bidenites intervened to block seven oil and gas leases in Alaska last year, they cited several reasons, but one in particular seems problematic: When the Biden administration stepped in last year to block seven oil and gas leases in Alaska, it said it was doing so in part to recognize the Indigenous Knowledge of the Native Americans who originally inhabited the land. [W]hen Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced on Sept. 6 2023, that the entire United States Arctic Ocean was off limits to new oil and gas leasing, and canceled seven oil and gas leases issued by former president Donald Trump after a review, she cited a recognition of the Indigenous Knowledge of the original stewards of this area. If Im correct, Joe Biden owns a home in Rehoboth Beach, and in Wilmington, and unfortunately, if guided by the Democrats most virtuous precept of making sure stolen land isnt exploited Yikes, it looks like he has to hand those properties over to their rightful owners, out of recognition for those original stewards of course! I mean, hes not a hypocrite now is he?! From the website of the City of Rehoboth Beach: The earliest settlers in this area were Native Americans who traveled to the beach in summer months to enjoy the cool breezes and abundant seafood. Between 1650 and 1675, English and Dutch settlers put down roots here as the area became home to farmers and members of William Penn's earliest legislatures. I wonder how many gas stoves Biden and the Bidenites use, in official government buildings/residences as well as personal ones? Do Bidens several homes use liquefied natural gas to heat? Does his staff ever cook for him over a propane grill? Im sorry, what kind of fuel does Air Force One use? How about Marine One? The Beast? With spinelessness, or what the left likes to envision as tolerance, virtue, or progressivism, comes wild hypocrisy and outlandish inconsistency. Add another precept to the Democrats book of legalism: Land confiscation for thee, but not for me. Image: DonkeyHotey, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. Now that President Trump has the GOP nomination all sewn up and Nikki Hailey is about to go out screaming and shriveling like Rumplestiltskin, the talk has shifted to who Trump's vice presidential nominee will be. Pundits dominate that talk, but the more interesting take comes from voters. Pollster TIPP asked that question of the GOP voters with this methodology: To find out whos potentially strongest as a vice presidential candidate, I&I/TIPPs national online poll, taken by 587 registered Republican primary voters from Jan. 31-Feb. 2, asked two questions: If Trump wins the Republican nomination, who would be your top choice for his Vice President? and, If Trump wins the Republican nomination, who would be your second choice for his Vice President? ...and got this response: Out of 14 possible names for the question about the top choice for vice president, only three reach double-digits: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (16%), entrepreneur, author and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy (14%), and former United Nations Ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley (11%). All the rest get single-digit support, from South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott (8%) to Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance (1%). But one remaining name still looms large: Not sure, which takes 20% of the vote, more than any individual candidate received. So people are still making up their minds. Image: TIPP // by permission Yay, baby! Who's better qualified for the job than the ultra-successful, ultra-popular, and ultra-competent, governor of Florida? He'd certainly be a top pick of mine. Most, other than Haley, who has yet to show the common sense to pull out of the race and would probably spend her vice presidency plotting and leaking against Trump in a bid to topple him, are good choices. No, thanks, Nikki. If I were one of the voters asked in the poll, I probably would have given the last response, which is "not sure." That's not because I'm not sure of what I want, but because I think there are a lot of good candidates. Ron DeSantis would be number one, Ben Carson would be number two, and Sarah Huckabee Sanders might be number three, all faithful and reliable Republicans who won't plot with the deep state or go RINO on us. Vivek is a little glib, but if Trump picked him, I'd be fine with it, Tim Scott has a bit of a RINO streak, Kristi Noem has that love-affairs problem, Tucker Carlson is not a pol, Kari Lake has not won high office, Mike Flynn I am not sure about though I'd be happy to see him in a top cabinet position, Elise Stefanik is impressive but not enough public support, as with the others. Trump could even go with someone very unconventional, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (who'd be a stretch as he's got some very Democrat views) or as he's mentioned on his short list, former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard: Former President Donald Trump acknowledged Tuesday that at least five high-profile Republicans and one former Democrat are on his shortlist for potential running mates in the general election including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and onetime Democratic presidential primary candidate Tulsi Gabbard. The GOP presidential front-runner confirmed his shortlist after Fox News host Laura Ingraham rattled off a list of names at a town hall event in Greenville, SC, which she said audience members deemed good choices for him to tap for the vice presidency. The names included Gabbard, DeSantis, Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem. It sounds like Gabbard, who could help him with independents, and DeSantis, are the tippy-top of the top picks since he named them first. Gabbard has been on Fox News a lot and doesn't sound left-wing at all. If she keeps talking like this, she can call her politics whatever she wants, based on her statements, she's One of Us. Gabbard has the added plus of being a beautiful woman, which, yeah, Trump likes, and we all know it's a Trump thing. But DeSantis could be quite an asset on the ticket, muscling through and bulldozing the deep state to help Trump destroy them. That would mean real change for the better. And as a bonus, he'd be right where we want him to be in an incumbent position to take the reins after Trump serves one term. Most of us would gladly take two terms of President DeSantis. Whomever Trump chooses, he's got a plethora of good options. And Trump's final opponent, doddering Joe Biden? He's stuck with Kamala Harris no matter how much he doesn't want this giggling idiot at his side. His focus on identity politics means he can't get rid of her. What an amazing contrast. Trump should pick the one he wants for their value to the ticket and capacity to govern within office, and enjoy this part of the presidential race show. Most voters are going to be happy, so he can hardly lose. Image: TIPPInsights, by permission The recent judgement for fraud against Donald Trump in a New York City Court, in a dollar amount higher than the GNP of some countries despite no one being defrauded, has revealed something many Americans didnt know: New York State is driving out its most productive, tax-producing citizens and businesses. What happens to a state that, for leftist political reasons, purposely destroys its tax base? What happens to that self-defunding state when its federal Democrat/socialist/communist (D/s/c/) allies open the borders and send tens, even hundreds, of thousands of illegal immigrants to take advantage of the states self-imposed sanctuary? New York is finding out, and isnt much liking it. New England, since before the founding of the republic, was Americans primary gun-producing region. No longer: The Remington gun factory nestled in New Yorks Mohawk Valley is ready to shutter its doors and move to Georgia after more than 200 years in the Empire State. "Two hundred and eight years of history. Gone, gone," Ilion, New York, Mayor John P. Stephens told the New York Times. "Ilion is Remington. Remington is Ilion." Remington is the nations oldest gun manufacturer and told union officials late last year that company chiefs at RemArms, the current version of Remington Arms, made the decision to end its New York manufacturing come March. The remaining operations located in Ilion will move to Georgia, where company leaders say the firearms industry is supported and welcomed. Even after the Supreme Courts Bruen decision, New York D/s/cs, who control every lever of power, have continued to write blatantly unconstitutional anti-liberty/gun laws. Some have been quickly struck downthere are some New York judges who follow the Constitution--but others are working their way to the Supreme Court. D/s/c states do this to inconvenience law-abiding normal Americans, knowing it will take years to strike down their unconstitutional mandates. In the meantime, they can virtue signal, and even bankrupt and imprison Americans daring to exercise their Second Amendment rights. "When Remington leaves, its not going to be like a facility leaving, its going to be like part of your family has moved off," Jim Conover, a retired Remington employee who began his career there in 1964, told The Associated Press. A furnace operator and technician at the factory, Frank "Rusty" Brown, told the outlet that he and generations of his family worked at the facility and noted he and his wife will be out of jobs. "My mom worked there. My dad worked there. My wife works there with me now. My daughter works there with me now. My second daughter works there with me now. And my son-in-law works there," Brown said. "So its a double-hit for me and my wife: two of us out of a job." Graphic: Screenshot, Remington on Twitter (X) Many gun and accessory makers have fled their traditional New England Homes. Among them, Smith and Wesson moved to Tennessee, Kimber to Alabama, Winchester moved ammunition operation s to Mississippi, Stag Arms and Weatherby have moved to Wyoming. Remington already has facilities in Arkansas. The closure of the New York location will result in about 300 people losing their jobs in a town of roughly 7,600. The mayor of Ilion told the Daily Mail that the village is expected to lose $1 million in revenue due to the move, in addition to other local businesses taking a financial hit. Like other gun, ammo and accessory makers, Remingtons decision to move is not only financial. The anti-liberty/gun political climate is a major factor. U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik and state Sen. Mark Walczyk both previously blamed New Yorks restrictive gun laws for the move. "Hochul must stop her unconstitutional assault on the Second Amendment now," Stefanik said in December, according to the Times Union. Walczyk pinned blame on New Yorks Gun Industry Liability Law for pushing the company out of the state. The law, which was signed by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in 2021, allows gun makers to be sued if they "knowingly or recklessly create, maintain or contribute" to violence. "We are very excited to come to Georgia, a state that not only welcomes business but enthusiastically supports and welcomes companies in the firearms industry," RemArms CEO Ken D'Arcy said in a statement. "Everyone involved in this process has shown how important business is to the state and how welcoming they are to all business, including the firearms industry." Remingtons move is part of a continuing trend of necessary and productive businesses moving to blue states that not only support, but embrace business, the Constitution and the rule of law, adding to their manufacturing and tax bases. More and more, red states are producers, while blue states are takers. Remington, setting up shop in a state with a more than willing labor pool, continues the American tradition New York has rejected. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. The Athos peninsula in northeastern Greece, that juts into the Aegean Sea for some 50 kilometers, was once bisected by a canal a hundred feet wide. The canal was built by king Xerxes I of Persia in the 5th century BC as part of the preparations for his intended invasion of Greece in 480 BC. The motivation behind this monumental earth-moving project stemmed from the disastrous experience of Persian commander Mardonios, who, twelve years earlier, attempted to navigate his fleet around the perilous cliffs of the Athos peninsula during the First Persian invasion of Greece. The peninsula's treacherous waters claimed a considerable portion of King Darius's fleetsome 300 ships and 20,000 menduring a storm. The Xerxes canal as it would have appeared if it still existed. Image credit: Konstantinos Tamateas/Wikimedia Commons In a bid to avoid a similar catastrophe, Xerxes tasked his engineer Artachaees with constructing a canal across the narrowest stretch of the peninsula. Over three years, forced laborers toiled to create a canal spanning two kilometers (1.2 miles) in length and 100 feet in width, allowing passage for two triremes simultaneously. The canal's design featured inward-sloping sides, narrowing to roughly 50 feet at the bottom and lying approximately 45 feet beneath the surface. Upon the successful passage of the Persian fleet through the canal en route to the Battle of Artemisium, Xerxes made little effort to preserve the canal as a permanent waterway. Over time, the canal fell into disuse and became filled with silt. Remnants of this engineering marvel can still be observed on the isthmus between Nea Roda to the north and Tripiti to the south, marking the narrowest point of the Athos peninsula. This canal not only stands as a remarkable testament to Persia's brief dominion over northern Greece but also represents one of the earliest examples of marine engineering in history. The primary source documenting the construction and existence of the canal is the ancient Greek historian Herodotus, who wrote: I will now describe how the canal was cut. A line was drawn across the isthmus from Sane and the ground divided into sections for the men of the various nationalities to work on. When the trench reached a certain depth, the laborers at the bottom carried on with the digging and passed the soil up to others above them, who stood on ladders and passed in on to another lot, still higher up, until it reached the men at the top, who carried it away and dumped it. Most of the men engaged in the work made the cutting the same width at the top as it was intended to be at the bottom, with the inevitable result that the sides kept falling in, and so doubled their labor. Indeed they all made this mistake except the Phoenicians, who in this - as in all practical matters - gave a signal example of their skill. They, in the section allotted to them, took out a trench double the width prescribed for the actual finished canal, and by digging at a slope gradually contracted it as they got further down, until at the bottom their section was the same width as the rest. In a meadow near by the workmen had their meeting place and market, and grain ready ground was brought over in great quantity from Asia. Herodotus believed that Xerxes constructed the canal not only to facilitate an attack upon Greece but also to show his might: ...it was mere ostentation that made Xerxes have the canal dug - he wanted to show his power and to leave something to be remembered by. There would have been no difficulty at all in getting the ships hauled across the isthmus on land; yet he ordered the construction of a channel for the sea broad enough for two ships to be rowed abreast. The canal was mentioned again in passing by Thucidydes in The History of the Peloponnesian War written about eighty years after the war: After the taking of Amphipolis, Brasidas and his allies marched to the so-called Acte, or coastland, which runs out from the canal made by the Persian King and extends into the peninsula; it ends in Athos, a high mountain projecting into the Aegean sea. Demetrius of Scepsis also stated based on first-hand information that there had, indeed, been a canal there, but he could not trace all of it. While historical records affirm King Xerxes's commissioning of a canal, historians have debated whether the famed Canal of Xerxes was really dug all the way from coast to coast. Some skeptics have cast doubt on its existence altogether, citing geological challenges such as a rocky plateau that they argue would have rendered construction implausible with the technology available at the time. At least three separate modern land surveys, conducted by the Frenchman M. Choiseul-Gouffier in the 18th century, by T. Spratt of England in 1838, and by the German A. Struck in 1901, all found evidence of the canal in the central part of the isthmus. But as late as 1990 the length and width of the canal was in dispute, as was the question of whether the canal reached all the way across the isthmus or if ships were dragged through parts of it. Map of Athos peninsula showing the location of Xerxes canal. This map appeared on the report by T. Spratt. It wasn't until thirty years ago that a collaborative effort between British and Greek researchers conducted a groundbreaking geophysical investigation, unearthing conclusive evidence of the canal's existence. Utilizing geological data collected from beneath the earth's surface, where the structure now lies buried, these scientists meticulously mapped out the canal's dimensions and course. Their findings corroborate the descriptions provided by Herodotus, which some scholars have long regarded with skepticism. From the analysis of sediments in the canal, we know that it probably had a short lifetime, said Dr. Richard Jones, the lead researcher on the project and an archaeologist at the University of Glasgow. The Persians did not think of it as a monument that would remain for centuries. Once their ships were through, that was the end. It was a colossal enterprise," added Dr. Ben Isserlin, an archaeologist at the University of Leeds who started the canal exploration project in the early 1990s. There were no pulleys. So the workers had to shovel earth into baskets and pass them along, from one person to the next, all the way to the top. After completion of the canal, the the Persian fleet made it safely to the Aegean Sea, where it was joined by the troops that had traversed the land route from the north, thus forming a formidable force poised to advance into Greek territory. Xerxes's soldiers then launched an assault on the Greek coast, penetrating deep into their territory and inflicting significant damage, including the destruction of Athens. Despite their initial successes, the Persians ultimately faced defeat at the hands of the Athenians in a decisive battle, marking the end of their fleeting imperial presence in Europe. As the tides of history shifted and empires rose and fell, the canal that played a crucial role in facilitating Xerxes's ambitious campaign gradually faded into obscurity. Over time, it got buried in silt and forgotten. References: # The Canal of Xerxes: Summary of Investigations 1991-2001, The Annual of the British School at Athens # Xerxes' Canal across the Athos, Livius.org # Persian Canal Discovery Is Testament to Ancient Engineering Skills, The New York Times The smart wearables market continues to grow as technology advances and consumers seek new ways to track their health and activities. While the smartwatch has been the dominant form factor for some time now, it seems that other areas are starting to gain traction including the smart ring. As Samsung prepares to launch its new Galaxy Ring later this year, sources (via Electronic Times) indicate that Apple is accelerating the development of its own smart ring device. The tech giant has been keeping a close eye on the wearable category. And it reportedly sees a ring as a viable option to complement its existing Apple Watch lineup. Advertisement Advertisement Apple may soon enter the smart ring industry Apple is said to have been exploring a smart ring concept for several years through numerous patent applications. Now, however, the market seems to be maturing. Just as Samsung is about to publicly unveil its take on the product. This could be an incentive for Apple to finally bring its vision of a finger-worn wearable to fruition in the near future. If developed, Apples smart ring would likely focus on health tracking. Much like its competitors. It would monitor key biometrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and even body temperature directly from the finger. Sleep tracking would also be a priority since people often wear rings while sleeping. Convenience features such as contactless payments using NFC technology could allow users to tap to pay on the go. Tight integration with iOS and other Apple devices would be expected, of course. Data collected by the ring would sync seamlessly with Apple Health. Also, a multi-day battery is critical for a wearable that is meant to stay on the finger at all times. Advertisement On the other hand, Samsung seems poised to establish itself as an early mover in the smart ring market with its Galaxy Ring. The device is said to include features such as blood flow monitoring and ECG readings. Sleep tracking and wireless device control/payment capabilities could be present too. According to an earlier report, Samsung will begin mass production of the device in the second quarter. The company plans to unveil it at an Unpacked event in the second half of July. This is when Samsung is expected to host the second Unpacked of the year. The report suggests that Apple is coordinating the timing of a potential Smart Ring launch to follow the consumer reception of Samsungs unveiling. Waiting to not be first fits with Apple CEO Tim Cooks strategy. Only time will tell if Apple makes its smart ring dreams a reality in the near future. Apple has faced scrutiny from European Union regulators, and it is gearing up for compliance with the EUs Digital Markets Act. However, the EU is set to fine Apple 500 million (or $539 million) in a prior dispute over anti-competitive practices relating to music streaming services. The Verge first reported that the EU determined early last year that Apple had broke antitrust law, but that a final ruling and potential fines were still pending. Now, almost a year later, the Financial Times reports that the EU is preparing to issue Apple a $539 million fine for the dispute. Spotify, the music streaming service that competes with Apple Music, argued that Apple used unfair practices to bolster its own streaming service. Spotify issued a complaint to the EU in 2019, and the regulatory body opened up an investigation the following year. Apple previously used anti-steering practices in iOS and the App Store, which caused the dispute. These policies prevented streaming apps like Spotify from linking to their own payment systems. By doing so, apps could avoid Apples 30% fee on in-app purchases and subscriptions. Advertisement Advertisement Apple has since shifted its stance on anti-steering policies. The change, in part, was due to pressure from regulators like Japan and the EU. However, the EU still found that Apple broke antitrust law before the change. As such, the governmental body has been mulling its options. According to multiple reports, it will end with a $539 million fine being sent Apples way. What Apple is saying about the EUs $539 million fine Apple declined to comment in response to an inquiry from The Verge about the news. A spokesperson, Emma Wilson, said Apple is not commenting on speculation. However, Apple has commented on the investigation in the past. Were pleased that the Commission has narrowed its case and is no longer challenging Apples right to collect a commission for digital goods and require the use of the In-App Payment systems users trust, said Apple spokesperson Hannah Smith in a Feb. 2023 statement to The Verge. The App Store has helped Spotify become the top music streaming service across Europe and we hope the European Commission will end its pursuit of a complaint that has no merit. Despite the companys claim that the case has no merit, it looks like the EU will still fine Apple a total of $539 million. However, its still easy to see this as a win for Apple. As the companys representative Smith explained, the EU dropped a few other aspects of the complaint, focusing on anti-steering instead. Plus, for a company the size of Apple, $539 million isnt all that much. It does continue Apples constant legal struggles in the region, though. Facebook is again facing a major legal battle in the UK. It is being sued for 3 billion pounds ($3.77 billion) over allegations of mass data collection. The lawsuit, which legal academic Liza Lovdahl Gormsen filed, accuses the social media giant of unlawfully collecting and monetizing the personal data of 45 million users. The lawsuit alleges that Facebook has significant access to the users data on non-Facebook platforms like Instagram. The plaintiff is now requesting the company compensate for the data collected from 45 million users in the United Kingdom. Lawyers claim Facebook is using its dominance in the market to get away with compensation. Advertisement Advertisement A legal academic in the UK files a lawsuit against Facebook over collecting users data and not paying for it In response, Meta refused the allegations and referred them as entirely without merit. The company also said it would vigorously defend against the claims. Additionally, Meta noted the lawyers have forgotten the economic value Facebook provides users. We are committed to giving people meaningful control of what information they share on our platforms and who with, and already invest heavily to create tools that allow them to do so, Meta said. As the lawsuit claims, Facebook has caused its UK users to suffer loss and damage, in particular because they have not been adequately compensated for the commercial value of their data collected and monetized by Facebook concerning their activities off Facebooks social media site. Last year, The Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) dismissed the allegations against Meta. However, on Thursday, the CAT ruled that Gormsens lawyers have proposed a revised claim. And it proceeds to a new trial against the social media giant. Judge Marcus Smith said the case could be heard in the first half of 2026 at the latest. A huge compensation is demanded The plaintiffs demand compensation between $2.6 3.9 (2.07 3.1) billion. If the court rules against Facebook, anyone in the UK with a Facebook account between February 2016 and October 2023 will get a portion of the money. This could be one of the biggest lawsuits against Meta, and the tech firm could lose a pile of money in a data collection case. Similarly, in 2022, Facebook agreed to pay $725 million to settle the Cambridge Analytica scandal case. Google Gemini has been touted as a useful tool for individuals looking to inject some generative AI into their lives. However, generative AI has a ton of potential to help business owners. Because of this, Google unveiled some new plans for Gemini that will greatly benefit business and enterprise customers. These, of course, are our Gemini Business and Gemini Enterprise. If this sounds familiar, we covered a few rumors about these plans very recently. Now, on the same day that Google unveiled Gemma, the company is rolling out these new plans. Advertisement Advertisement As a quick rundown of what Gemma is, Gemma is Googles new family of AI models that are small and efficient enough to fit on your computer. Look at the link above to learn more about Gemma and how it can supercharge your AI development. Google unveils new Business and Enterprise plans for Gemini The potential for AI to positively affect businesses is immense. So, Google has some very useful plans for people looking to get even more out of Gemini. Firstly, Duet AI for Google Workspace is now called Gemini for Google Workspace. This is the umbrella that the two plans are going to be under. With any of these plans, youll get features like better data protection. This means that the conversations you have with Gemini will not be shared with advertisers or used to train the models. Also, your conversations will not be reviewed by humans or shared with other organizations. Advertisement This is extremely important, as many businesses are going to be using Gemini for Workspace, and theyre going to be sharing some rather sensitive information. This is information that companies do not want to have shared with other organizations. Plan details The first plan is called Gemini Business. This is the more affordable of the two plans, and it extends these features and protections to teams and organizations of all sizes. Its powerful enough to bring useful AI to companies that are getting started off with AI. So, if your company is newer, or if its just getting started with generative AI, this is the plan to get. It cost $20/month. Next up, we have Gemini Enterprise. This replaces duet AI for workspace Enterprise. This is a plan thats for larger companies like multi-million dollar Enterprises. It offers the most powerful version of Gemini available and can facilitate many more users. So, if you have a major brand, and you want to add serious generative AI power to it, then this is the plant again. This plan costs $30/month. Protestors Natalie Conrad and Debi Davis try to engage with people walking by during a Vote No on Prop. 1 protest on the west steps of the Capitol on Feb. 1, 2024. Photo by Fred Greaves for CalMatters Fred Greaves/Fred Greaves for CalMatters Supporters of Prop. 1 march at the state Capitol in Sacramento on Jan. 31, 2024. Photo by Jose Luis Villegas for CalMatters Jose Luis Villegas Framers with Roberts Obayashi contacting, and mechanical and plumbing trades, work to build the Ruby Street apartments in Castro Valley on Tuesday, February. 6, 2024. The project will be the first affordable housing in the Castro Valley after 2 decades, and is serving a varied population, including the formerly homeless, veterans, people with disabilities, and families. Of the 6 acres of land, 60% of the plot will be left as green space for the residents, including a bike trail. The construction project is funded by the No Place Like Home bond, which passed in 2016 to create affordable housing for homeless residents with mental health issues. Photo by Camille Cohen for CalMatters Camille Cohen/Camille Cohen for CalMatters In the fall of 2018, Californias voters were determined to make a dent in the states rapidly escalating homelessness crisis. By a wide margin, they supported a ballot measure sold as No Place Like Home, which promised to use taxpayer money earmarked for mental health treatment to pay for a $2 billion housing bond. Voters who read the description by advocates of the measure that November saw a bold promise: 20,000 new units of permanent supportive housing. More than five years later, the state has completed just 1,797 No Place Like Home units. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As Californians prepare to vote next month on Proposition 1, which includes another multibillion-dollar plan to build affordable housing with intensive services attached, the story of No Place Like Home may serve as something of a cautionary tale. Its a case study of big promises, good intentions and urgent need caught in a tangle of NIMBYism and red tape. Projects that would be funded by Prop. 1 which, among other things, would issue $6.4 billion in bonds to pay for 4,350 units of supportive housing and 6,800 mental health treatment beds could face some of the same hurdles that have delayed the construction of No Place Like Home units, developers and local officials say. Voters happy to agree with the concept of housing homeless people have killed proposals to build such housing in their own neighborhoods. Complicated financing rules and restrictions have delayed other projects, sometimes for years. Meanwhile, since No Place Like Home passed, the states unhoused population has shot up by 40%, and is now estimated to include more than 181,000 Californians. Look whats happening; were losing, said Dr. Jonathan Sherin, former Los Angeles County director of mental health. Im not disparaging the people or their intentions, he said. The systems are antiquated. Theyre archaic. Theyre impossible to move quickly. Molly Weedn, a spokesperson for the Yes On Prop. 1 campaign, said in an email that the new measure would inject money into proven, successful housing programs and that there were provisions in the measure to speed up development. Advertisement Article continues below this ad No Place Like Home units are specifically for people with serious mental illnesses who are homeless; as part of the law, counties are required to provide the residents of these units with mental health and substance use treatment for a minimum of 20 years. The pledge to use bond money to build 20,000 supportive housing units can be traced to a 2018 Legislative Analysts Office report, which estimated half of the units would likely be completed within five years. An analyst told CalMatters that estimate included other sources of affordable housing money, not just the $2 billion proposed by No Place Like Home. Key supporters of the measure who circulated the number widely in 2018 and cited it in their arguments in the states official voter guide did not return requests for comment. The California Department of Housing and Community Development, which administers the bond revenue, refused to make someone available for an on-the-record interview. Christina DiFrancesco, a program specialist for the department, said via email that the department developed an estimate for the number of units only after the ballot measure passed. That estimate is in line with the departments current forecast that No Place Like Home money will wind up funding a total of 7,702 such units. The developments that house these units are paid for with No Place Like Home funding and other types of federal, state and local funding. They generally contain a mix of No Place Like Home units and other sorts of affordable housing. So far, in addition to the permanent supportive housing units, No Place Like Home has indirectly supported the construction of an additional 2,332 affordable-housing units, though these do not necessarily have services attached. The department defines completed units as ones that have been occupied for at least 90 days. Some units have opened in the past three months and are not yet reflected in state data. Advertisement Article continues below this ad DiFrancesco said the department provides incentives to developers to start construction as soon as possible, and sets deadlines for lining up financing and for leasing units. All of the No Place Like Home funds have been disbursed to counties since 2022, department representatives said, and construction is picking up pace. People who have been housed as a result of No Place Like Home have had their lives transformed. But the urgency with which dollars have been turned into housing simply doesnt match the reality of the pain and suffering of people living on the streets with severe mental illnesses, said Kevin de Leon, who carried the original No Place Like Home legislation when he served as the states Senate president pro tem. I feel that weve moved at a snails pace, said de Leon, now a Los Angeles City Council member. We have to raise the bar because people are dying on the streets as we speak. A fateful trip to Skid Row De Leon and Darrell Steinberg, who focused on mental health policy during his years in the Legislature and is now mayor of Sacramento, dreamed up No Place Like Home after a visit to Skid Row in 2015. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Their heads spinning after meeting with advocates, service providers and city officials, the two legislative powerhouses sat down in a cafe. They started sketching out a vision on a napkin: Could unspent state mental health revenue be used to construct and rehabilitate housing for people with severe mental illnesses? Steinberg had co-authored the Mental Health Services Act, a 1% tax on income over $1 million that voters passed in 2004 to improve the states struggling mental health system. He had been trying, unsuccessfully, for a decade to use some of that money for a housing bond, he said. In essence, the state would ask investors to loan the money upfront, then would use the Mental Health Services Act money to pay it off over time. The proposal he and de Leon dreamed up in the cafe would prove controversial once they introduced it in early 2016 some counties and mental health advocates opposed the idea of paying off a housing bond with funds designated for mental health services. The Legislature that year was just awakening to the growing crisis on the streets, said Craig Cornett, the budget and finance director for the state Senate at the time, who helped craft the proposal to bring many early opponents on board. With strong bipartisan support, the Legislature passed No Place Like Home and then-Gov. Jerry Brown signed it in 2016. We will no longer turn a blind eye to the needless suffering that is so clearly displayed on our streets, Steinberg said at the time. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That November, attorney Mary Ann Bernard filed a lawsuit to stop the legislation, arguing that it would be illegal to divert the money to housing from treatment programs. To avoid litigation, Brown and legislators put No Place Like Home on the ballot. In November 2018, 63% of voters marked yes. How to pay for mental health housing Today, Steinberg is measured in his critique of the rollout of the policy. He describes it as successful, the right initiative and the right policy. But he agrees that speed obviously matters. The consistent frustration is the amount of time it takes to go from bold policy vision and new ideas to implementation, he said. We all want it to go faster. I certainly do. What, exactly, has taken so long? The pandemic which hit a little over a year after voters passed No Place Like Home certainly didnt help. But many of the issues afflicting No Place Like Home predate the ballot measure. The problem isnt No Place Like Home. The problem is how we finance and build affordable housing, said Carolina Reid, faculty research adviser at the UC Berkeley Terner Center for Housing Innovation. Its not as simple as handing out cash: Lining up financing can take years. No Place Like Home awards make up a fraction, sometimes just 10%, of the total cost to build an affordable housing project, developers say. That means a developer often needs to come up with another half-dozen funding sources from different city, county, state and federal programs Complicating the issue further: the various funding streams arent always in sync, with different deadlines, different requirements, even different definitions of homelessness. It takes way too long, and its heartbreaking when youre seeing people who are living in such horrible conditions, said Andrea Osgood, chief of real estate development for Eden Housing. Eden won $6 million from No Place Like Home in June 2022 to build a 72-unit affordable housing development in Castro Valley, south of Oakland. That was just 9% of the projects total cost of $66 million. The developer had to compile the rest from six other sources. Construction started in June 2023; it is expected to be complete in early 2025. Another challenge, Osgood notes: The cost of construction has gone up, sometimes jumping as much as 20% in a year. Insurance rates are climbing as well. As these costs increase, No Place Like Home funds get stretched thinner and can build fewer homes. Even if Prop. 1 passes, a yawning $38 billion state budget deficit may create new problems, as proposed cuts to other affordable-housing funding sources, such as the Multifamily Housing Program, could leave new financial holes. That might translate into even longer construction delays, Osgood said: All of us are worried in the industry right now. Where to build new housing But finances arent the only problem. Developers and county officials say they frequently run into resistance when they try to find a place to build permanent supportive housing units. In part, developers blame Californias Environmental Quality Act, an environmental law that allows concerned citizens to sue to delay or even stop proposed housing developments. Two of the 10 No Place Like Home projects proposed by Eden Housing were hit with such lawsuits, Osgood said. One, in downtown Livermore, won nearly $6.5 million from No Place Like Home back in June 2022. Litigation is ongoing; the project still hasnt broken ground. Plain old NIMBYism the acronym for Not In My Backyard has sunk other projects. It was just local community concerns about the kinds of clients that we serve, said Michelle Cabrera, executive director of the County Behavioral Health Directors Association. The question, of course, is not whether such housing is valuable, but how California can build it faster. The state is trying. Legislators have passed bills to speed up approval and remove land use and parking restrictions for certain apartment buildings that include low-income units. Californians should start to see No Place Like Home projects move more quickly as those laws take effect, said Michael Lane, state policy director at the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association. You need to have the land, you need to have the financing, but then you also have to have the political will to approve the projects, he said. Weve made a lot of progress over the last few years, and well begin to see the results of that. Sen. Susan Eggman, a Democrat from Stockton who authored part of Prop. 1, said the state has learned valuable lessons from No Place Like Home. She said Prop. 1 includes exemptions to Californias Environmental Quality Act to facilitate the development of supportive housing. It also requires more transparency: Counties will have to submit annual reports to the state outlining how money is spent. With No Place Like Home there wasnt a lot of accountability from the communities, Eggman said. Now there will be measurements and outcomes to really be able to see what the community needs, what they have and what their plan is to make sure those resources are there. Should Prop. 1 pass, the Department of Health Care Services will split responsibility for distributing bond money with the state housing department. A representative of the health care services department said in an unsigned email that the initiative would authorize them to require corrective action plans or levy fines against counties that do not meet capacity and other annual performance goals. Farrah McDaid Ting, the director of member engagement for the California State Association of Counties, said she was initially skeptical about No Place Like Home when she was a lobbyist for the organization. At the time, assuming it would pass regardless, she decided to help craft a legislative package that she and the counties she worked with could support. She considers the construction of more than 1,600 units so far a huge achievement, one she doubted would happen back when de Leon and Steinberg first floated their idea in 2016. But when it comes to getting housing built faster, she said, none of us not governors, not Senate leaders, not countless others nobody has been able to figure out how to make this stuff happen. Lawsuits and complaints against Pixel series devices have no end. In the most recent case, a Pixel 6 Pro owner has filed a lawsuit due to overheating issues. The plaintiff, Jennifer Hyatt, alleged that the phone becomes too hot during everyday use. As Law360 reports, the lawsuit filed with a California court by Hyatt states that the Pixel 6 Pro overheats to the point that it becomes too hot to hold. It also adds the plaintiff bought the $900 phone from a Verizon Wireless store in December 2021. Advertisement Advertisement The customer reportedly selected the Pixel 6 Pro because the Products were advertised as being normal, usable phones and labeled as the smartest, fastest, and most secure Pixel phones. Google Pixel 6 Pro reportedly has considerable overheating issues However, right after buying the phone, Hyatt was supposedly shocked to discover that it had become too hot to hold. The lawsuit notes that the Pixel 6 Pro shut down features or stopped working due to overheating. The plaintiff complains the device was advertised as a functional working phone. But the overheating defect made it functionally useless and unreliable. The customer has also requested numerous replacement phones from Verizon. But all the phones had the same issue. The case now alleges that Hyatt is financially damaged as she didnt receive the product she was expecting and paid for. Googles false advertisements for Pixel 6 Pro could be a violation of Californias Consumers Legal Remedies Act, False Advertising Law, Unfair Competition Law, and the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act. Advertisement Moreover, the lawsuit accuses Google of sweeping the issue under the rug before selling the phone and proceeding with selling defective devices without notifying customers. It would be interesting to learn if Sundar Pichai has ever encountered the issue while using his 20 phones. The plaintiff now demands Google to recall all defective Pixel 6 Pro devices. She also wants the company to compensate for damages it caused to buyers. Google has not yet commented on the matter. Meanwhile, this is not the first time a Pixel series phones has encountered overheating issues. The owners of the Google Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, and Pixel 7 series have all reported similar problems. It should be obvious by now that pretty much every company is going all in on AI. Companies like Google have been focusing on it for years, but since the whole generative AI boom, all notable tech brands have been working on the technology. Now, Oppo is going all in on generative AI, and its going to bring some powerful tools to its Reno series later this year. Oppo is a major Chinese tech firm, and its joined at the hip with OnePlus. In fact, OnePlus co-founder, Pete Lau, is the chief product officer of Oppo. The company has its popular Find N series of foldables. It also sells its Find X and Reno series of phones. Advertisement Advertisement Oppo is going to bring generative AI tools to its Reno phones later this year So far, weve already seen some of the impressive things that phones can do with on-device AI. Weve seen the Pixel 8 Pro (Review) use some powerful generative AI tools. However, its really the Galaxy S24 series of phones that showcase some impressive on-device generative AI. Samsung announced Galaxy AI, and the company unveiled a bunch of AI features that are all done right on the device like text generation and translation. Now, Oppo is looking to do much the same. According to the company, it has established a large R&D Center for AI research. The center will help research and develop powerful AI tools for Oppos products. Since Oppo and OnePlus are so closely integrated, we wont be surprised if some of these tools make it to future OnePlus devices as well. Advertisement Oppo developed its own AI model called AndesGPT. The company plans on releasing some new AI tools to its Reno devices in the second half of the year. Were not quite sure how many tools are coming or what theyre going to be. However, the company did mention that the intelligent object removal in photos and phone conversation summary will be making it to these phones later this year. These tools first landed on the Oppo Find X7. This shows Oppos commitment to AI It looks like Oppo is the next company to really hammer down on its AI capabilities. The company outlined four major defensive characteristics of AI smartphones: -AI Smartphones must efficiently utilize computing resources to meet the computational needs of generative AI in the AI era. AI Smartphones should be aware of the real world in time through sensors, understanding the complex information of users and the environment. AI Smartphones also need to possess powerful self-learning capabilities. AI Smartphones will have multimodal content generation abilities, providing users with continuous inspiration and knowledge support. So, the company is going to use these for its future AI phones going forward. Water levels drop Tuesday at Copco Lake, which is being drained to make way for the removal of Copco 1 Dam in Siskiyou County. As a result of the continuing dam-removal project, the Klamath River cuts through a century of accumulated sediment in its historical path. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle The nations largest dam-removal project, the dismantling of four hydroelectric dams near the remote California-Oregon border this year, may be the end of one story. But its the beginning of another. The native Shasta people, who were exiled from the banks of the Klamath River more than a century ago, in part because of dam construction, are expected to acquire a stretch of ancestral land that is emerging along the river as the dams come out and the reservoirs behind them dry up. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Tribal members envision a revival of their age-old community on the property, which the state is looking to hand over as acknowledgement of their enduring hardship. The displaced Shasta people never found a place to regroup after the forced diaspora. Many of their descendants, now scattered across California and beyond, hope to come live, work and worship on the riverfront they still call home. We really need to be back, said Connie Collins, a Southern California resident and council secretary for the roughly 300-member Shasta Indian Nation, the tribe that traces its lineage to the rugged hills and valleys where the dams were built. My family is from there. Weve longed for the return to our homelands for such a long time, and now we finally have hope. The removal of the dams on the Klamath River is the product of a decades-long push by Native Americans, environmentalists and fishing groups to restore the natural flow of the 250-mile waterway, which runs from southern Oregons lofty Cascades to the thick forests of Californias North Coast. The first of the dams, about a six-hour drive from San Francisco, was torn down last year. The three others were breached In January, to drain the water behind them, in anticipation of razing them by fall. Supporters of the project want a free-flowing river, most fundamentally, to rejuvenate salmon. The rivers salmon population was once the third-largest on the West Coast but collapsed partly because the dams blocked fish habitat. For Indigenous groups in the Klamath Basin, including the Shasta people, salmon were not only food but a spiritual and cultural staple. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Another major benefit of the project, for Native Americans, is the transfer of land. As part of the deal for dam removal, the states of California and Oregon, which helped negotiate the deconstruction, will receive about 8,000 acres that the utility, PacifiCorp, unloaded alongside the aging power facilities. The company got rid of its assets because of the maintenance expense. Its now covering the roughly $500 million cost of taking out the dams, aided by some California bond money. The lands submerged by the reservoirs, as they resurface with the project, are already being tended to by contracted planting crews in hopes of returning them to grasslands and forest. More than 17 billion seeds are slated for planting, representing 97 species of grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees. In many areas, the restoration work will continue for years. California officials told the Chronicle this month theyre in talks with Native American groups to co-develop a plan for the ownership and stewardship of project lands. Officials declined to provide details, wanting discussions to be private. However, planning documents indicate the state is looking to transfer property in Siskiyou County to the Shasta Indian Nation, and perhaps other tribes, as a small measure of compensation for disturbances caused by the dams and their removal. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The transfers come amid growing interest by the state and other land managers in seeing Indigenous groups administer and protect Californias wildlands. Last year, the Newsom administration counted more than 12,000 acres that the state and various conservation groups helped return to Native Americans. The lands alongside the Klamath River would be a significant addition. Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corp., the nonprofit established to carry out the dam removal, doesnt make the decision about transfers, but he has knowledge of the process and said, The tribe has a very compelling case. A forced exodus The discovery of gold in Californias far north marked the beginning of the Shasta peoples forced exodus from their land. After inhabiting villages in the Klamath Basin for at least 8,000 years, subsisting chiefly on fish, deer and acorns, according to archeological records, the Indigenous residents were viewed by newly arriving Europeans as an obstacle to mining. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In the mid-1800s, settlers shot and killed many of those living along the river, burning their wooden plank houses, sweat lodges and assembly buildings, historical documents show. Other tribal members were relocated to reservations. Those who stayed homesteaded, with some able to purchase newly privatized lots. A Shasta chief named Bogus Tom Smith was one of the foremost figures in the drive to hold onto ancestral land, using a variety of methods. He promoted the Ghost Dance, a ritual believed to invoke spirits to fight off colonizers, and called on Indigenous women to intermarry with the white residents to preserve property rights. There was a sacrifice to try to keep their land base, said Brian Daniels, an archeologist and director of research and programs at the University of Pennsylvanias Penn Cultural Heritage Center. He has long worked with the Shasta Indian Nation and documented its history. Its a really tragic story. With the development of the Klamath Hydroelectric Project in the early 1900s, the Shasta peoples attempts to remain in the area stalled. Most of what they owned or controlled was seized for power generation. Over the next 60 years, five dams went up on the main stem of the river, three in California and two in Oregon, putting both new and old pieces of the Indian community under water. One of the dams in Oregon as well as the federally run Link River Dam on Oregons Upper Klamath Lake are not part of the demolition. Both are equipped with fish ladders that allow salmon to pass. None of the project dams and reservoirs were designed for flood control or to store irrigation or drinking water. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Larry R. Leonard, a member of the Shasta Indian Nation, looks at what remains of Copco Lake in Siskiyou County as it continues to drain. Some of the land that is emerging with the Klamath River dam-removal project is expected to be transferred to his tribe. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle They forced my family to leave their ranch, said Larry R. Leonard, a member of the Shasta Indian Nation. Leonard lives in Sacramento but has regularly visited the power project over the years to see his homeland, if only from the window of a car or nearby park. He is a direct descendent of Kitty Ward, one of the last Shasta people to leave the land and a legend in the tribal community for her resistance. Shes said to have snubbed orders to vacate, only to be tricked into leaving her cabin briefly for the nearby town of Hornbrook, where she died. Leonards affinity for the Klamath Basin was shaped by his grandfather, who took him fishing in the creeks and walking in the hills, long after his ancestors were gone. My grandfather knew the place. He would say thats my great-great-aunts friends house over there, Leonard recalled. But really its just a field. While the loss of the tribal community is old history, many in the Shasta Indian Nation worry that dam removal could bring a new round of upheaval to their ancestral home. They fear that the drawdown of reservoirs and a free-flowing river will wash away remnants of Shasta settlement and further erode their connection to the area. We dont want our cultural resources disturbed, said Sami Jo Difuntorum, culture preservation officer for the tribe. But weve come to reconcile that disruption is inevitable again. The Shasta Indian Nation is somewhat an outlier among Native American groups because of its mixed feelings about dam removal instead of wholehearted support. In light of the tribes continuing concerns, Difuntorum expects the Klamath River Renewal Corporation to protect cultural resources as the dams and reservoirs disappear, and she hopes ultimately the area will be returned to her people to safeguard. Restoring the community On a recent afternoon, Difuntorum watched the newly freed Klamath River splash downstream from what was once one of the biggest reservoirs in the hydroelectric project, Copco Lake. The rivers flow was swift and muddy, cascading from a hole that had been blasted in the cement Copco 1 Dam to forever empty the lake water behind it. A smaller diversion dam a short distance downstream was removed last year, allowing the river to pour through a canyon that hadnt seen much water since the dam was completed in the 1920s. Its powerful. The river is powerful. The sound is powerful, Difuntorum said. Its almost like you can hear and sense that the rocks are welcoming the water back again. A double rainbow appears along the banks of the Klamath River on Monday as the waterway cuts through a century of accumulated sediment in what was recently Copco Lake in Siskiyou County. The lake is being drained as part of the dam-removal project on the river. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle This segment of river, named Wards Canyon in memory of Kitty Ward, is among the acreage that the Shasta Indian Nation is hoping to acquire a little less than a third of the total 8,000 acres that the two states will receive. The broader area is known as Kikaceki to the Shasta people and considered sacred, holding the center of their spiritual world. It was historically the site of one of the largest Shasta villages as well as smaller villages, fishing hubs and ceremony sites. While much of this land was under water before Copco Lake began to drain, not all of it was. Some of the property is where PacifiCorp ran its operations, with roads and buildings, including a small schoolhouse, storage complex, old powerhouse and handful of homes. Other parts are wilderness. Tribal members say they hope to rebuild their lost community on the property by repurposing existing structures as well as adding more homes and other essentials such as a fish processing station and smokehouse. Public access would be granted on much of the land. A visitor-friendly reassembled traditional village and trails are being discussed, tribal members say. The existing powerhouse could be turned into an interpretive center, some have suggested. Although the property transfer is probably years off, coming after the dams are down and the restoration of the land is firmly underway, the Shasta peoples return is already being warmly received. One unexpected welcoming came from the Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors. The board, which has long opposed the dam removal, said the tribal members would make good neighbors in a recent letter to the state endorsing the property transfer. For Daniels, the archeologist at the University of Pennsylvania, transferring land to the tribe would be a fitting end to the project. Theres a big victory thats being celebrated in so many ways about the dams being removed, but what happens next? he said. For me, thats really the interesting part of the story. Collins, the tribal secretary for the Shasta Indian Nation, describes the transfer as almost essential for her people. Julian Assange allegedly put lives at risk with the release of unredacted classified documents, the High Court has been told by lawyers for the United States. The WikiLeaks founder faces prosecution in the US over an alleged conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information following the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. In a January 2021 ruling, then-district judge Vanessa Baraitser said that Assange should not be sent to the US, citing a real and oppressive risk of suicide, while ruling against him on all other issues. Stella Assange arrives at the Royal Courts of Justice in London, ahead of a hearing in the extradition case of her husband (James Manning/PA) But later that year, US authorities won their High Court bid to overturn this block, paving the way towards Assanges extradition. Lawyers for the 52-year-old are now asking for the go-ahead to challenge the original judges dismissal of other parts of his case to prevent his extradition. However, US authorities are opposing Assanges bid for an appeal, telling the court his case is unarguable and should not be allowed to proceed to a full hearing. At the start of the arguments on behalf of the US on Wednesday, Clair Dobbin KC said the plans to extradite and prosecute Assange are based on his alleged actions, not his political opinions. She told the High Court in London that Assange faces allegations he encouraged and assisted Chelsea Manning in obtaining classified documents, including around 400,000 Iraq war-related activity reports and 250,000 US State Department cables, before publishing many of them through WikiLeaks. Julian Assange speaking in 2011: "The goal is to use Afghanistan to wash money out of the tax bases of the US and Europe through Afghanistan and back into the hands of a transnational security elite. The goal is an endless war, not a successful war" #FreeAssangeNOW pic.twitter.com/GoaaCrCTPS WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) February 21, 2024 Ms Dobbin said there were profound consequences, with some of the named sources in the documents, who had provided information to the US, facing arrest, the loss of assets, threats and harassment. This wasnt a slip, or an error, this was the publication of a vast amount of material unredacted, she said. In written submissions, Ms Dobbin and James Lewis KC described the leak as one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the United States. They continued: It is specifically alleged against the appellant that by publishing this information on the WikiLeaks website, he created a grave and imminent risk that the human sources named therein would suffer serious physical harm. The US authorities have denied that the decision to extradite or prosecute Assange is due to his political opinions. Ms Dobbin said: The administration in the US of course changed during these proceedings but nonetheless the prosecution of the appellant remains in foot. Because it is based on law and evidence, not political inspiration. Assange is fighting extradition to the United States (James Manning/PA) The barrister later said that the original judge rejected outright that Assange should be treated like a journalist or what he did could fall under the ambit of responsible journalism. During the first day of the hearing on Tuesday, Mark Summers KC argued the US prosecution of Assange would be retribution for his political opinions, meaning it would be unlawful to extradite him under UK law. He said: This is a paradigm example of state retaliation for the expression of political opinion. The district judge did not address it had she done so, it would have been fatal to her decision. Mr Summers later told the court that the US authorities had allegedly developed a breathtaking plan to either kill or kidnap Assange while he was in the Ecuadorian embassy, where he remained for around seven years. The barrister later said the plan only fell apart when the UK authorities werent very keen on the thought of rendition, or a shootout, in the streets of London. Edward Fitzgerald KC, also for Assange, later said he is being prosecuted for an ordinary journalistic practice. The hearing before Dame Victoria Sharp and Mr Justice Johnson is due to conclude on Wednesday with their decision on whether Assange can bring the appeal expected at a later date. Kemi Badenoch said she had engaged extensively with LGBT groups when she had not even met them, a Labour former cabinet minister has claimed in the Commons. Ben Bradshaw questioned if the Business Secretary and equalities minister has a problem with the truth and was critical of the Conservatives approach to transgender issues. An ally of Ms Badenoch told the PA news agency she had meetings with the campaign groups Transgender Trend and Sex Matters, and exchanged multiple emails and letters with other LGBT groups. It comes in a week when her statements on two unrelated issues her sacking of the Post Office chairman and her claims trade talks had been ongoing with Canada have both been publicly questioned. Mr Bradshaw was speaking at Prime Ministers Questions and referenced comments Ms Badenoch made last year. The Labour MP said: In December, the Cabinet minister for equalities told this House that she had engaged, and I quote, extensively with LGBT organisations since her appointment 18 months ago. A freedom-of-information answer published this week reveals that in fact the minister hasnt met a single LGBT organisation, but has met two fringe groups that actively campaign against transgender rights. What is the problem the Prime Minister, and a section of his party, have with trans people, and his equalities minister has with the truth? Prime Minister Rishi Sunak responded: This Government has a proud track record of supporting those in the LGBT community and will continue to do so. Ive also always said that those who are questioning their gender and identity should be treated with the upmost dignity and compassion and sensitivity as they consider those questions. But it is completely reasonable alongside that to highlight the importance of biological sex when it comes to those questions. Nobody should be stigmatised or demonised for pointing out that fact. In December, Ms Badenoch was speaking in the Commons about issues related to gender recognition and told the House: We have engaged with numerous LGBT groups. She then posted on social media platform X the same day: I have engaged extensively with LGBT groups in my role as minister for women and equalities. Mr Bradshaws remarks appear to refer to information published by PinkNews. Too many people do not understand the law when it comes to self-ID. I have engaged extensively with LGBT groups in my role as Minister for Women & Equalities. But many of these groups support self-ID, which is not Govt policy. Stonewall do not decide the law of this country. pic.twitter.com/zYjS5ZnW1Z Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) December 6, 2023 The outlet reported in December that Ms Badenoch had not had meetings with any of the UKs largest LGBTQ+ organisations since taking on her role as minister for women and equalities, citing information provided by Mermaids, Gendered Intelligence, the Kaleidoscope Trust and Stonewall. PinkNews reported on Tuesday that Ms Badenoch did not attend any events related to LGBT Pride in an official capacity last year, citing information released under the freedom of information act. An ally of Ms Badenoch told the PA news agency: As well as her meetings with Transgender Trend and Sex Matters, Kemi has exchanged multiple emails and letters with other LGBT groups. This all counts as engagement and supports her tweet. But the truth is that Ben Bradshaw really just wants her to meet the likes of Stonewall and Mermaids, who support self-ID something that Kemi does not support and is not Government policy. Ms Badenoch has clashed with Henry Staunton this week, with each providing differing accounts of a conversation in which she dismissed him as chairman of the Post Office. Labour chairman of the Business and Trade Committee Liam Byrne has also said Ms Badenoch has questions to answer over remarks she made in relation to trade negotiations with Canada. The Business and Trade Committees X account said on the social media site that the Canadian High Commissioner refutes the claim made by Ms Badenoch in January that trade negotiations on cheese and rules of origin are ongoing. A Government source said: The Business and Trade Secretary told the House she was having multiple discussions, these are very different to the formal negotiations or technical discussions that were ruled out by the Canadian High Commissioner. Badenoch has remained in contact with her Canadian counterpart and next week she will be travelling to WTO MC13 (World Trade Organisations 13th Ministerial Conference) in Abu Dhabi where among her meetings she will be continuing discussions with her Canadian counterpart regarding the cheese and rules of origin issues. The director of BBC Film has raised concerns about the battered British film industry seeing an exodus of experienced filmmakers. Eva Yates, head of the feature film-making arm of the BBC, appeared in front of a Wednesday session of the Culture, Media and Sport Committees inquiry into British film and high-end TV. She said: I think the tax credit could have a transformative effect, I think were sort of at the point where we are at risk of losing a huge number of really talented people from the industry. Today, as part of our inquiry into British film and High-end TV, we'll be questioning: 'One Life' Director, James Hawes Rebecca O'Brien, producer of films by @KenLoachSixteen @BBCFilm @Film4 Watch live https://t.co/9bZaL6u2NY pic.twitter.com/VYkLmHuYQ0 Culture, Media and Sport Committee (@CommonsCMS) February 21, 2024 And I think theres both an immediacy to that as a possible solution but theres also an opportunity to bring some confidence back into an industry which has really been battered in the last few years between the strikes, the effects of Covid and massive changes to the structure of the marketplace. She also said that it was frustrating to be training lots of new people, when theres actually brilliant, experienced people who could be doing these jobs, but not choosing to stay in the industry. Ms Yates, whose company has had the recent releases romantic drama Rye Lane, biopic One Life, family drama Aftersun and Oscar-nominated Triangle Of Sadness, also told MPs that the amount of resources needed to make a film was increasing. I now go to film festivals and spend the whole time meeting other financiers so that I can try and bring those introductions into the British industry and to those independent producers, she said. I dont get to watch films anymore. Its completely different. Ms Yates also said the very modest budget for BBC Film at 11 million had not increased in a decade, amid rising inflation during that period. We make about 15 films a year with that money, and we also make short films, but we do that always in partnership with other people so we dont have the financial ability to solely finance anything that we do, she added. Film4 director Ollie Madden has said that his company, involved in Oscar-nominated films Poor Things and The Zone Of Interest, was making fewer movies than the studio would like. We make a minimum of four every year, but we would like to make more, he added. And it has become harder, finding absolutely private money, commercial money to make first-time features because they are very risky. He also said: Producers and production companies being able to earn a fair fee for their work and not having to defer their fees, and allowing them to build much more sustainable businesses, because too often you see producers having to defer (fees) so much that feels unsustainable, and they struggle to make their next film, or even stay in the industry, because its too hard to build a business. Mr Madden also said that if there were changes to tax relief then producers could get more revenue through rights distribution. Film4 director Ollie Madden said his company was making fewer movies than the studio would like (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Independent film can be commercially successful by holding back the rights of films, particularly in North America, which is one of the biggest markets, he added. Ms Yates agreed there was an ongoing issue around producers deferring their fees, causing them to reach the crisis point where they cant make the cost of their film meet the budget that they managed to raise. We have had to substantially raise our investment in a number of films over the last few years in order to get them to the point where theyve been makable, she added. But its quite difficult for us to continue to do that, without starting to lose the overall amount of films that were able to make in any given year. The cast of Triangle Of Sadness (Doug Peters/PA) Rebecca OBrien, a producer at Sixteen Films, who made the Irish civil war film The Wind That Shakes The Barley, starring Cillian Murphy, and Bafta-nominated The Old Oak, also warned that without fiscal support the industry would die. She also said there was market failure because of streaming giants, higher-end TV and Hollywood coming in and taking a lot of our investors away. Im chatting up a Turkish TV station at the moment, Ms OBrien said. Im not desperate, Im very, very happy to work with Turks, but its like, really, am I doing that to close the funding on my film at the moment. Lord David Cameron said there was a partnership of values between the UK and Paraguay as he became the first foreign secretary to visit the South American nation. He praised the countrys support for Ukraine as an example of how the UK and Paraguay could work together. Paraguays president Santiago Pena has given his support to Ukraine in a previous meeting with Kyivs leader Volodymyr Zelensky. At a joint appearance with Paraguays foreign minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano, Lord Cameron said: Partnerships only work if they are partnerships of values. I admire so much the stance your country has taken on Russias illegal invasion of Ukraine. Thats just one example of where we share values then we can work together. The UK and Paraguay are working together to unlock green growth and prosperity for both our people. We remain firmly committed to supporting Ukraine and upholding democracy and human rights worldwide. Muchas gracias por su bienvenida Presidente @SantiPenap. pic.twitter.com/a6SlldatjG David Cameron (@David_Cameron) February 21, 2024 He apologised for the delay in a foreign secretary visiting a country with which the UK has had diplomatic ties since 1853. Im sorry its taken so long, he said during his visit to the presidential palace in Asuncion. His Paraguayan counterpart said the pair and president Pena had discussed the global context including the situations in Ukraine and Gaza The talks also covered green energy and trade. Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron walks around Port Stanley on the Falkland Islands (Stefan Rousseau/PA) After his meetings in Paraguay the Foreign Secretary will attend a summit of G20 counterparts including Russias Sergei Lavrov in Brazil on Wednesday. Russias actions in Ukraine will also be the subject of a United Nations session in New York later in the week. The visit to Asuncion is the latest leg of the Foreign Secretarys tour of the Americas, which began in the Falkland Islands and will continue on to Brazil and the United States. On Tuesday morning, Lord Cameron began his day with a swim in the cold South Atlantic before seeing some of the Falkland Islands penguins. He chatted to children involved in a local conservation group, who persuaded him to try a piece of edible grass growing along the coast. It tastes like celery, the Foreign Secretary said before offering the stem to the youngsters to try they all declined. Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, center, speaks at a news conference announcing that the city received a state grant of around $3.5 million to hire more street ambassadors. Thaos news conference was disrupted by a group seeking to recall her from office. David Hernandez/The Chronicle A group of demonstrators supporting a campaign to recall Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao on Wednesday disrupted a news conference at which Thao announced that the city was awarded a $3.5 million state grant to put more safety ambassadors on the streets. Oakland police officers arrived just after 10 a.m. at Latham Square after demonstrators got into heated arguments with Thaos supporters. The mayor left in the middle of the news conference, which was held on her first day back to work after her mother died last week. The grant from the California Department of Social Services will allow the city to deploy at least six safety ambassadors in downtown Oakland and Chinatown, city officials said. Safety ambassadors already work in Chinatown and other areas, responding to nonemergency issues that dont require a police presence, officials said, adding that the effort allows police officers, paramedics and dispatchers to handle other incidents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Not every situation needs a police response, especially since we want to make sure officers are available for serious crimes, Thao said. She and other speakers said the ambassadors identifiable by their green vests de-escalate situations that involve the citys homeless population and offer them trauma-informed care. This is one more tool in our toolbox to say we are completely dedicated, 110%, to keeping our community safe, and were looking forward to expanding this program, City Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas said. A group seeking to recall Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao disrupted a news conference in which Thao announced the citys plan to hire more street ambassadors with money secured from a state grant. San Francisco Chronicle Wendy Hui, who owns R&S Healthy, a medicine shop in Chinatown, said street ambassadors have been able to respond more quickly than police officers when problems have arisen outside her store. Ambassadors, she said, have cleaned up trash and debris and have calmed down people experiencing apparent mental health crises. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We really need them, because they help us immediately, Hui said during the news conference. The city was awarded the grant under a $9.5 million state pilot program intended to support community-based crisis response programs. There were three other recipients: Marin County was awarded $1.3 million, Sacramento County received $2 million and Santa Cruz County was awarded $2.5 million. The Oakland City Councils Community and Economic Development Committee is expected to consider accepting the grant at a meeting on Tuesday. The city plans to work with Family Bridges to deploy the ambassadors under the grant program. Family Bridges runs the program in Chinatown. City officials said the six additional ambassadors would hit the streets as soon as the city executes a contract with Family Bridges, but they did not provide a date. The city will plan to add more ambassadors to other areas, including Jack London Square, Little Saigon and Lake Merritt. Supporters of the recall campaign against Thao began collecting signatures in hopes of forcing a recall election in November. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The group of demonstrators about a dozen of them showed up as the news conference was about to begin. They held signs that read, Failed mayor and Failed policies. The mayors staff moved a podium a short distance away, but the demonstrators followed and stood behind the mayor as she began to speak. After the news conference, one of the demonstrators, Oakland resident Tuan Ngo, criticized Thao in an interview for previously failing to secure a separate state grant to curb retail theft. Im just tired of the city getting worse and worse every year, Ngo said. su The UK is poised to set out its response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, with Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron telling Vladimir Putin: We match our words with actions. Lord Cameron will also condemn Russias war in Ukraine and stress the need for nations to adhere to the rules-based international order when he speaks at a meeting of foreign ministers from the G20 nations in Rio on Wednesday. The former prime minister will also use his appearance at the summit to reiterate his call for an immediate pause in fighting in Gaza to get more aid to the beleaguered population who have suffered under Israels military onslaught and to allow the release of the hostages seized by Hamas. The Foreign Secretary and counterparts from other major countries will highlight what they view as an assault on international norms, ranging from Russia to the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The US has promised its own major sanctions package on Friday in response to Mr Navalnys death. Lord Cameron is expected to set out the consequences Russia will face from the UK on Wednesday as he also takes aim at what he sees as a litany of hypocrisy from the Kremlin over Ukraine. Floral tributes outside the Russian Embassy in London for Alexei Navalny (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The Foreign Secretary said: We need to adapt international rules and institutions to the challenges we face today. This means reforming the rules-based international order, not shattering it. The Kremlin pays lip service to concepts like sovereignty, while openly undermining them. Unlike Russia, we match our words with actions. This week marks two years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the death of Mr Navalny which Foreign Office minister Leo Docherty has described as murder has added to international outrage about Mr Putins regime. The Kremlin has dismissed suggestions it is to blame for the death of Mr Navalny in an Arctic penal colony. Mr Navalnys death deprived the Russian opposition of an influential figure less than a month before an election that is all but certain to give Mr Putin another six years in power. Lord Camerons Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov is expected to be among the foreign ministers at the G20 gathering. As well as the crises in Russia and the Middle East, Lord Cameron will also use his time at the G20 to push for greater international trade. He said: In conflicts around the world, we seek the fastest route to lasting peace consistent with the UN Charter. And we are pushing for fairer and more effective systems for development, trade and multilateral governance. The summit in Rio comes after Lord Cameron visited the Falkland Islands and Paraguay on Monday and Tuesday. He will also head to New York for a United Nations session on Ukraine on Friday. A witness of the Clapham alkali attack said it is sad that justice isnt coming to alleged attacker Abdul Ezedi after his suspected body was found in the River Thames. The Metropolitan Police announced on Tuesday that they believe his body had been recovered after a major search. Sophie Todd, 24, witnessed the attack while on a run in south-west London and said she would have liked to see him go to court. She told the PA news agency: Just for me, I know that I would want to have my opportunity in court if I had been them. Its hard to walk in their (the victims) shoes, but I would have liked to see him go to court. And theres so many witnesses that justice would have been served in my eyes hopefully. I just think its sad that administrative justice isnt coming to him. Ms Todd, who lives in south-west London, said it was harrowing to walk down the street in Clapham where the attack occurred on January 31. She said it was horrific to witness, adding that she had found it difficult to sleep since the attack. Ms Todd, who works in recruitment, said: He picked out what was quite clearly a child and threw them up and down. It was like how youd throw a medicine ball in the gym with that much force and energy. It was almost as if it was a rag doll you couldnt have thought that was a real human. She said of the aftermath of the attack: You didnt know what was going on. It was very traumatic and the kids and the mother were screaming. It was horrific. Ms Todd said that the police were really quick off the mark to speak to her as a witness. Police believe Ezedi, who was from the Newcastle area, threw a burning chemical over his former girlfriend in the attack on her and her young children, aged eight and three. He then fled the scene, and initially used his bank card to travel on the Tube before walking a route that broadly hugged the banks of the River Thames in the following hours. (PA Graphics) During a massive manhunt investigators had to piece together CCTV footage to establish that he had jumped in the Thames. At around 4pm on Monday the crew of a passing boat reported they had seen a body in the water near Tower Bridge at Tower Pier. The body was recovered by the Metropolitan Polices Marine Policing Unit, with support from London Fire Brigade, and has been viewed by detectives working on the investigation. Friends who are fundraising for the family said the woman, who is now no longer under sedation in hospital, is desperate to be reunited with her two daughters. They said in a statement given to PA: Mums still in critical care and desperate to be reunited with her girls. We know mums lost her sight in one eye, and were praying that it returns fully in the other. Our friend is a phenomenal mum and the strongest, most independent person we know. Shes already making so much progress and is determined to get out of hospital as quickly as possible. More than 44,000 has been raised so far for the woman and her two children in the wake of the attack last month. An Edinburgh charity founder who has personally delivered aid to decimated frontline villages in Ukraine and helped thousands of civilians has urged Britons to continue to care for ordinary people impacted by war in the country. Oleg Dmitriev, 43, told the PA news agency he was compelled by the feeling of injustice and the catastrophe to start helping deliver aid to Ukraine two weeks after Russias full-scale invasion began on February 24 2022. Since then he has established his own charity, Sunflower Scotland, which has helped more than 11,700 people in Ukraines frontline villages, people in liberated areas and hospitals. Oleg Dmitriev has delivered aid to 16 frontline towns and villages (Oleg Dmitriev/PA) Almost two years on, Mr Dmitriev has travelled to at least 16 frontline villages and towns to deliver aid to people living in the most dangerous and impoverished circumstances. He first visited the city of Kharkiv, which he said was a heartbreaking experience. At that time, the city was half-encircled by Russians and each day after dark, they started shelling it, and you just drive or walk through Kharkiv and a big part of buildings in the city centre had no windows and had cracks in the walls from the bombs, and it was dreadful, Mr Dmitriev said. On the main square there was an unexploded missile right in the centre of it. It felt like there was like a dark cloud over the city everyone was very depressed and everyone was scared. Oleg Dmitriev in Prikolotne, Kharkiv Oblast, as he carried out aid work (Oleg Dmitriev/PA) From there, he drove through numerous frontline villages. He said: I drove through villages after villages after villages that were decimated and its actually a road from Kupyansk to Izyum that impressed me so much in the most terrible way. All the villages were just decimated and you could see the houses with roofs broken and everything and you could see the sheer scale of destruction. Death was everywhere. He said one of the worst things about aid distribution work is when the volunteers do not have enough for everyone who needs it. Oleg Dmitriev saw numerous destroyed towns and villages as he travelled to distribute aid (Oleg Dmitriev/PA) After hours of driving through the land of death, you arrive at a village with people and they form a queue to receive aid but you dont have enough for everyone, he said. When youre starting, everything is nice. Everyone is cheerful because food came and then you see that you only have a few bags left and then you say, people, please dont queue up, we only have enough left for 10 people, and then five people, one. Then they always come, oh, can you please give me an extra one for my neighbour, she is very old, shes ill, shes injured, she cannot come, please. Its actually very hard for the volunteers to go through this because you basically have to turn down people. After this, you drive in silence for some time. This experience always sticks with him. Oleg Dmitriev experienced one of the most most devastating moments in my life when he encountered a destroyed nursery in Kharkiv (Oleg Dmitriev/PA) I always find it very hard when I have dust from the roads on my shoes and my hands are still shaking, and I have to wait to be seated in a restaurant somewhere in the safe area, he said. He experienced one of the most most devastating moments in my life when he encountered a destroyed nursery in Saltivka, a district of the city of Kharkiv. The structure, the frame remained of the building, but some of the walls were cracked and destroyed, and then most windows had no glass and all the furniture inside was broken, and it was a mixture of rubble, broken furniture, toys and snow, he said. I have two kids and as a father, obviously, I take those things very personally. After a few minutes, something suddenly cracked and I started crying and I couldnt stop crying for about 10 minutes. Thinking what happened to those children was very hard. Oleg Dmitriev saw destroyed buildings in Kharkiv (Oleg Dmitriev/PA) There was a sleeping room where kids slept on their beds. The windows were broken but the beds were intact, and on two of the beds there were flowers, so you could imagine the parents whose kids were there had brought flowers to their beds. Mr Dmitrievs experience has been captured in a documentary, Sunflowers In The Rain, directed by Aaron MacCarley, which follows the stories of 10 Ukrainian and foreign volunteers. Mr Dmitriev believes the documentary will shed light on the experiences of ordinary Ukrainians suffering because of the war as it shows how their lives changed, what they go through. He now plans on returning to the front line and urges others to continue to care about the ordinary people affected by the war. He said: I think, as a society, we moved on and its very hard to explain this to people who need help, because people need to eat every day and they are getting injured every day. We would like our donors not to give a one-off donation but to make space in their heart to support people for a longer term. Sunflowers In The Rain is premiering at Edinburgh City Chambers on February 23. The Government has promised to publish the 15 reports prepared by the sacked borders and immigration watchdog, but did not set a deadline for doing so. David Neal was fired on Tuesday after he breached the terms of his appointment and lost the confidence of the Home Secretary. It is understood he was delivered the news by a senior civil servant over Zoom. The Home Office had previously been criticised for delays in publishing reports submitted by Mr Neal and his predecessors, with 15 reports dating back to April 2023 still unpublished when he was dismissed. David Neal was sacked as chief inspector of borders and immigration after he breached the terms of his appointment (ICIBI Corporate Services/PA) In a written statement to Parliament on Wednesday, Home Secretary James Cleverly said his department was committed to publishing the reports submitted by Mr Neal and would provide responses in due course. Labour branded the move total Tory chaos on borders and immigrations. Mr Neal issued a staunch defence in the wake of his dismissal, telling The Times: Ive spent all my working life protecting this country, Ive identified a security failing and Ive brought it back to the Home Office. Theres a strong public interest here and thats why Ive done what Ive done. The border is there to keep us safe, its critical that there are clear auditable risk decisions made to protect every one of us in the country. This is not something Ive done lightly. But Ive been forced into this because my reports arent being published. Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said a series of Conservative home secretaries have sought to bury uncomfortable truths revealed by the chief inspector about our broken borders, and shockingly they are still sitting on 15 unpublished reports stretching back to April last year, adding: The Home Secretary must now publish those reports in full. The Conservatives have lost control of our borders, are seeking to hide the truth, and are putting border security at risk. Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman Alistair Carmichael said it was a desperate move from a Conservative government terrified of proper scrutiny of their record of failure on borders and immigration. Earlier on Tuesday, immigration minister Tom Pursglove told the Commons the Home Office categorically rejects claims high-risk flights landed in the UK without security checks. Mr Pursglove disputed warnings made by Mr Neal, whom the Daily Mail reported had received Home Office data showing UK Border Force failed to check the occupants of hundreds of private jets arriving at London City airport. He insisted Border Force performed checks on 100% of scheduled passengers arriving in the UK and risk-based intelligence-led checks on general aviation, But he appeared to confirm one of Mr Neals reported concerns, that not all of the checks were being carried out in person. Mr Pursglove added: Its deeply disturbing that information which has no basis in fact was leaked by the independent chief inspector to a national newspaper before the Home Office had the chance to respond. We are urgently investigating this breach of confidential information in full in the normal way. Although the Home Office disputed the accuracy of the data provided to Mr Neal, the department has not provided alternative figures. The Home Office disputed the accuracy of the data provided to Mr Neal (Kirsty OConnor/PA) Mr Neals departure from the role comes in the wake of a series of critical inspection findings where he frequently took the department to task over its performance in the areas he inspected. During his tenure, Mr Neal has repeatedly raised concerns that the department was too slow to publish his reports and has questioned why his three-year contract was not renewed for a second term, as was customary with his predecessors. Earlier this week, he reportedly branded it scandalous that his role could be left vacant for between six and nine months while a successor was appointed during which time the Government was trying to get Rwanda flights off the ground, meaning there would be no independent scrutiny of the deportation plan. The Home Secretary said the recruitment process for Mr Neals replacement was in progress and a new chief inspector of borders and immigration would be appointed after a robust competition. Mr Neal is understood to have been due to give evidence to a Lords committee next week but it is now unclear whether the session will take place. The Government will publish terms of reference for an independent inquiry into the Omagh bomb atrocity later on Wednesday, Lord Caine has said. The Northern Ireland Office minister, speaking during a visit to a shared education campus in Limavady, said he was very pleased the Government was able to take the step. His remarks came as Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he did not think it made sense to have public inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the Irish border. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the independent inquiry into the 1998 Omagh bombing last year in response to a court judgment that directed the Government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the judge directing the state to act. Lord Caine was speaking during a visit to Limavady (Jacob King/PA) The dissident republican bomb exploded in the Co Tyrone town on August 15 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Hundreds more were injured. Lord Caine said: On the Omagh terms of reference, they are being published today. I am very pleased we have been able to take this forward as a Government and deliver a public inquiry in response to the Gallagher judgment. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic of Ireland. Lord Caine said: As far as the Irish government are concerned, I did raise this with them directly at the last meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. It is something we will keep raising with them for sure. First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. Tanaiste Micheal Martin during a visit to Ulster University in Belfast (Niall Carson/PA) Speaking during a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin denied that his Government had not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. He said: There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic. The Gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of Government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. Heathrow has returned to profit for the first time since the pandemic thanks to a bounce-back in international travel. The owners of the UK airport reported underlying pre-tax profits of 38 million in 2023, against losses of 684 million the previous year and marking the first time it has made a profit since 2019. It saw a 28.6% jump in passengers travelling through its terminals, to 79.2 million, capped off by a strong end to the year, with the group having cheered its busiest-ever December. And Heathrow forecast that a record number of passengers would use the airport this year, pencilling in a rise to 81.4 million in 2024. The airports current busiest year was 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic, when passenger numbers reached 80.9 million. Heathrow is continuing to develop its plan to build a third runway, which has been delayed by legal challenges and the coronavirus pandemic. Thomas Woldbye, Heathrows recently appointed chief executive, said the expected growth in passenger numbers firms up the business case for building a third runway, and the project will absolutely be something the airport will focus on this year. Mr Woldbye told the PA news agency the airport will publish a revised strategy in the coming weeks, which will include plans for expansion and increasing capacity by alternative methods. He said: We need to not only focus on the third runway of course which needs to be updated so we have the right facts for that decision, were going to make that a reality in the right way but also what kind of capacity can we create within the current boundaries of Heathrow to make sure that we can serve our passengers as best as possible. Asked if he is confident a third runway can be built, Mr Woldbye replied: This is a huge project of huge significance to the UK, to our airlines, to the passengers, but also all the people around Heathrow. Were very aware of our responsibility in that regard and making sure that we come up with the right decision. At the current time I cant be sure of that much, but that is exactly the process we are going to go into, to make sure we have the right basis to take the right kind of decision for all the people and all the stakeholders that are involved. Heathrow said it was being hampered by the huge cost challenge set by the UK aviation regulator, having been a vocal critic of the Civil Aviation Authoritys move not to allow it to raise its landing fees further. Mr Woldbye said: 2023 was a good year for Heathrow from a challenging start to a great finish. A global rebound in air travel following the pandemic has boosted figures (Steve Parsons/PA) We delivered much improved service for our customers, and managed to turn a small profit after three consecutive years of losses. Thats a great platform to build on, although in 2024 we are expected to deliver even further improved service to more passengers, but with airport charges cut by 20% in real terms. We will have to pull every lever to become more efficient and make tough choices on where we spend and invest our money to overcome the huge cost challenge set by the CAA and remain profitable over the next three years. The CAA reduced the cap on Heathrows average charge per passenger from 31.57 for 2022 and 2023 to 25.43 over the following three years. Heathrow figures show 63.4% of flights departed within 15 minutes of the schedule last year, up from 59.0% during the previous 12 months. The results come less than two months after Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth fund agreed to buy a 10% stake in Heathrow Airport. Spanish infrastructure giant Ferrovial sold its 25% share in Europes busiest airport to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) and to French firm Ardian, which secured a 15% stake. Ferrovial had been the airports largest shareholder since 2006 before the sale. The House of Commons endured a day of acrimony and descended into chaos, concluding with more than an hour of claims and criticism about Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyles handling of the Gaza ceasefire debate. The SNP opted to use one of its allocated Opposition Day Debates to press for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages held by Hamas and an end to the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Labour responded by tabling an amendment to the motion calling for an immediate ceasefire, emphasising this involves both sides agreeing to lay down their arms and the return of all hostages taken by Hamas, and calling for a diplomatic process for achieving a two-state solution and a lasting peace. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said Labour appeared to have difficulties in supporting the SNPs motion because it said there has been collective punishment of the Palestinian people. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn criticised the Speaker (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) A Government amendment called for an immediate humanitarian pause in the fighting before supporting moves towards a permanent sustainable ceasefire that involves Hamas freeing all hostages and relinquishing control of Gaza, and international efforts to create a two-state solution. Here the PA news agency takes a look at what happened on one of the chambers most heated days since the Brexit debates of 2016 to 2020. What was expected to happen on Wednesday? This might not be the most exciting place to start but the first stop is to look at the standing orders, which are the written rules which regulate the proceedings of the Commons. Section 31 (2) explains that when the Government tables an amendment to an Opposition Day Debate motion, the original words of the motion will be voted upon first and if rejected then the Governments alternative wording will be put to a vote. The expectation therefore was that the Government amendment to the SNP motion would be selected for debate with both being voted on. What did the Speaker do? Sir Lindsay said he wanted MPs to consider the widest possible range of options and announced at the start of Wednesdays debates that he would be selecting both the Labour amendment and the Government amendment. He acknowledged this was an exceptional move and this provoked uproar in the chamber, with Conservative former minister Sir Desmond Swayne lampooning the Speaker by shouting bring back Bercow! a nod to the previous Speaker John Bercow, whose controversial tenure concluded with the Brexit wars. Sir Lindsay also faced shouts of resign and shame from the SNP and Conservative benches. Why was the Speakers decision an issue for many MPs? The SNP have up to three days on which, as the second largest opposition party, they can lead debates. The selection of the amendments by the Speaker led them to argue they were being denied an opportunity to have a vote on their motion given that Labours amendment would be voted on first and sought to change its content. Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle announces he has selected amendments tabled by Labour and the Government to the SNPs Gaza ceasefire motion (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Claims also circulated that Sir Lindsay had bowed to pressure from Labour to select their amendment, something that was denied. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt accused Sir Lindsay of having hijacked the debate and said it had become a political row within the Labour Party, adding: Regrettably Mr Speaker has inserted himself into that row with todays decision and undermined the confidence of this House in being able to rely on its long-established standing orders to govern its debates. Did anyone else question the decision? Sir Lindsay was warned by House of Commons Clerk Tom Goldsmith about the unprecedented nature of his decision ahead of the clash with MPs, with the senior official saying he felt compelled to point out that long-established conventions are not being followed in this case. The clerk is the chief adviser to the House on matters of parliamentary procedure, privilege and broader constitutional issues. What happened next? Once tempers had calmed after the Speakers initial decision, an actual debate took place in the House of Commons. Shortly after 6pm and after the SNP frontbench had finished their speech to wind up the debate, Ms Mordaunt made a point of order on behalf of the Government. It was at this point she attacked the Speakers handling of the matter and suggested the Government would take no part in votes linked to the motion. As Deputy Speaker Dame Rosie Winterton tried to move towards holding the votes, further points of order were raised during heated exchanges. Mr Flynn repeatedly demanded to know the whereabouts of the Speaker before SNP MPs and several Conservative MPs walked out of the chamber in an apparent protest at the handling of matters. It was understood that SNP MPs headed to the voting lobby in anticipation of voting in favour of calls for a ceasefire. So they had a vote? Further points of order continued to be raised, with Conservative MP William Wragg asking if ministers could sign his no confidence motion in the Speaker and Dame Rosie denying claims that Sir Lindsay selected Labours amendment amid threats from the party that they would bring him down should they win the election. A vote then took place when Mr Wragg rose to ask that the House sat in private. This was defeated but was interpreted by some as a time-wasting ruse in the belief that if the clock ticked past 7pm the moment of interruption for the day that no other votes could take place. Deputy Speaker Dame Rosie Winterton reads out the vote result (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Deputy Speaker Dame Rosie later said advice had been taken and the vote on the Labour amendment was required to take place regardless of the timing. If MPs had decided the House should sit in private, the galleries would have been cleared and the broadcast feed would have ceased. OK, so at this point there was a vote on the actual debate? Yes. Labours amendment pushing for an immediate Gaza ceasefire was approved by the Commons without a formal vote being called. The Deputy Speaker ruled that it had been approved on the shouts of MPs. Conservative former minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg later challenged this ruling and said: It is absolutely extraordinary that that noise level was deemed to be aye. Some MPs were left frustrated that a formal vote did not take place, with many wanting to place on record their decision and show their constituents they had supported a ceasefire. And how did the Speaker respond to events? Sir Lindsay returned to the chair once Labours amendment had been approved. He apologised to the Commons amid shouts of resign from some MPs. He said he was very, very concerned about the security of all MPs, adding: I wanted all to ensure they could express their views and all sides of the House could vote. As it was, in particular the SNP were ultimately unable to vote on their proposition. I am, and I regret with my sadness, that its ended up in this position. That was never my intention for it to end like this. I was absolutely convinced that the decision was done with the right intentions. I recognise the strength of feeling of members on this issue. Sir Lindsay also denied meeting Labour adviser Sue Gray on Wednesday. How did MPs respond to the apology? The SNPs Mr Flynn said he would take significant convincing that the Speakers position was not now intolerable and claimed his party had been treated with contempt. Sir Lindsay has offered to meet Mr Flynn and other key players to discuss the matter. What is the impact of Labours amendment being agreed? Opposition Day Debate motions are non-binding on the Government. But on matters such as this they at least signal the feeling of the House of Commons. What was clear from the debate is MPs from all sides want to see an end to the violence in the Hamas-Israel conflict, although they disagree on how best to achieve this. What happens next? It is unlikely the Speaker has heard the last of Wednesdays events and business questions on Thursday may be another occasion when Ms Mordaunt and others consider the matter further. The veterans minister has been warned by the chairman of the independent inquiry into alleged murders by special forces in Afghanistan of potentially serious legal consequences after he refused to disclose names to the investigation. Sir Charles Haddon-Cave told Johnny Mercer his decision to refuse to answer legitimate questions at a public inquiry were disappointing surprising and completely unacceptable. On Tuesday, Mr Mercer repeatedly refused to hand over names of multiple officers who told him about allegations of murder and a cover-up during his time as a backbench MP, while giving evidence to the inquiry at the Royal Courts of Justice. He told counsel to the inquiry Oliver Glasgow KC: The one thing you can hold on to is your integrity and I will be doing that with these individuals. Mr Mercer added: The simple reality at this stage is, Im not prepared to burn them not when, in my judgment, you are already speaking to people who have far greater knowledge of what was going on. On Wednesday, the chairman told Mr Mercer you need to decide which side you are really on as he criticised the ministers approach as a misguided understanding of the term integrity and an inappropriate sense of loyalty. Addressing Mr Mercer before he concluded his evidence, Sir Charles said: As youll appreciate, this is not the end of your evidence or indeed your attendance before me because, as Mr Glasgow has had to say, the plain fact of the matter is that you have, at least for the moment, refused to answer legitimate questions by leading counsel at a public inquiry in particular what are the names of people whove spoken to you about these matters? Im bound to say, this is frankly very disappointing and surprising for someone in your position and, Im bound to say, completely unacceptable. It gives rise to potentially serious legal consequences which may need to be put in train. Sir Charles continued: I have, Im afraid, very significant powers under the Inquiries Act 2005 which I would prefer not to have to use. But you can be assured Mr Mercer that I will, if necessary. My patience is not inexhaustible because I have a public inquiry to run and pursue as quickly as possible in the public interest and the interest of all those who have had allegations made against them or who have a dark cloud sitting over them, their families and their careers. After asking the minister to reflect on what he had said, the chairman added: Id like this matter addressed very soon and I mean, very soon. To use a phrase you objected to this morning Mr Mercer, and to put it starkly but I think fairly and correctly, you need to decide which side you are really on, Mr Mercer. Is it assisting the inquiry fully as Mr Glasgow has said, and the public interest and the national interest in getting to the truth of these allegations quickly, for everyones sake, or being part of what is, in effect a wall of silence and this wall of silence is obstructing the inquiry and access to the truth. And doing so because of, if I may say so, a misguided understanding of the term integrity and an inappropriate sense of loyalty. So Id like you to reflect on all those matters and my legal team will be in touch. People in the UK sometimes dont know how to focus their help for Ukraine, Dame Joanna Lumley has suggested as she read a poem at a theatre event to mark the second anniversary of Russias invasion of the country. The 77-year-old joined more than 1,000 others at Londons Palace Theatre for an evening which featured performances by Ukrainian poets, a ballerina and musicians in a show of support for the war-torn country as it continues to fight Russian President Vladimir Putins army. The actress read the English translation of a poem by Ukrainian poet and medic Yuliia Paievska, who was imprisoned by Russian soldiers between March and June 2022. The Absolutely Fabulous star told the PA news agency afterwards: The house was packed, it was extraordinary, there was a great feeling of unity. Dame Joanna Lumley and Ukrainian medic Yuliia Paievska read a poem during the United With Ukraine show, an event for the Ukrainian refugee community in London, to mark two years since the Russian invasion, at the Palace Theatre in London (Aaron Chown/PA) I think the important thing about the world, which is very fragmented, is that if you see how strong people are together, it weakens the opposition. When asked if Britons were doing enough to support Ukraine, she said: If somebody said collect milk bottles or something like that, or collect tin cans, we would all do it all the time, but sometimes its too nebulous and people dont know how to focus their aid. I know that this country stands absolutely behind Ukraine and we long for what will happen. Ms Paievska told PA: Before we went on stage, she (Dame Joanna) told me that she is with Ukraine with her whole heart. Its a big honour for me to do this with Joanna and the reason for that is that Joanna is a symbol of Britain and a symbol of classic Britain, and everything that Britain stands for. Its been an absolutely fantastic event and its fantastic because its very honest and beautiful, and its proven the unity of three nations. I am often asked if our friends in the West have gotten tired of what is happening in Ukraine and supporting us, and this is proof to the fact that they have not. Actor Brian Cox appeared earlier in the show, where he read Poem About a Crow by Victoria Amelina a poet, novelist, essayist and human rights activist who died aged 37 from injuries sustained in a Russian missile strike on Kramatorsk and then told Mr Putin to f*** off after the reading. Brian Cox reads a poem during the United With Ukraine show (Aaron Chown/PA) US ambassador to the UK Jane Hartley said in her opening remarks that Mr Putins Russia cannot go unpunished in the aftermath of opposition leader Alexei Navalnys death in a prison north of the Arctic Circle. Speaking to PA before the performances, Ms Hartley insisted the narrative about the Wests continued support for Ukraine is much too negative and that the US can provide totally reliable support. She added: I think the US is totally relied on in terms of Ukrainian support. Weve given 75 billion dollars in support of them, and President Biden has made it very clear that he is supporting Ukraine to the end. Hes made it very clear that he thinks Ukraine can win. Sometimes I think the narrative gets much too negative. We have seen what they have done, weve seen what they did in the Black Sea just last week, weve seen the number of casualties on the Russian side. The Ukrainians are brave, theyre courageous and theyre tough. Were going to support them, the world is supporting them, our allies are supporting them and this fight will go on, Im an optimist. You guys (the UK) have been a fantastic ally, and we have worked together on everything. It really is the special relationship. The evening also featured a speech by Attorney General Victoria Prentis, whose daughter lived in Kyiv before the war, and who took in one of her friends as a refugee. Ukrainian rock star Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, Songs for Ukraine and the Royal Opera House quartet perform the Ukrainian national anthem during the United With Ukraine show (Aaron Chown/PA) She said: Thats why we are determined to ensure that we and our allies will support Ukraine for as long as it takes. Ukrainian rock star Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, who has recently returned from performing for soldiers on the front line, told PA following his performance that Britons are friends of his country not only in their words but also in actions. He added: There are a lot of countries, there are a lot of people around the world who express their support but very few of them prove it not only with words but also with deeds. The UK and British people are among those who are friends not only in their words but also in actions. The war in Ukraine is still taking place and we dont see the light at the end of the tunnel, so its important to continue spreading the word about Ukraine, raise awareness, remind people that its not over. The fact that Ukraine probably is not the main headline news as it was two years ago doesnt mean that everything is over. I can cite here the famous saying of the legendary Winston Churchill, and I think thats the situation that we can describe in Ukraine. Its not the end, its not the end of the beginning but its probably the beginning of the end. The King has held his first face-to-face official duties an audience with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and a Privy Council since being diagnosed with cancer. Charles met Mr Sunak at Buckingham Palace late on Wednesday afternoon, marking the restart of their weekly encounters to discuss matters of Government. Beforehand, the monarch held an in-person Privy Council at the royal residence, where attendees included Lord President of the Council Penny Mordaunt and a selection of other ministers who are Privy Counsellors. The King with Rishi Sunak in the Private Audience Room (Jonathan Brady/PA) It is the first time the 75-year-old King, who was pictured with the Prime Minister, has been filmed carrying out official duties since his shock diagnosis, and since the start of the year, but the head of state remains away from public engagements. Mr Sunak told the King the whole country was behind him, while the monarch spoke of being reduced to tears by the kindness of the messages and card he had received. Charles, wearing a suit and tie, was seen shaking hands warmly with Mr Sunak, and greeting him with a broad smile. Mr Sunak said: Good evening Your Majesty. Very nice to see you. The King replied: A gap. The pair chat at Buckingham Palace (Jonathan Brady/PA) Mr Sunak said: A bit. Wonderful to see you looking so well. Charles joked: Its all done by mirrors, prompting hearty laughter from Mr Sunak. The Prime Minister added: Were all behind you. The country is all behind you. Charles replied: Ive had so many wonderful messages and cards. Its reduced me to tears most of time. Mr Sunak said: Well I can imagine. They discussed the spotlight that has been shone on cancer charities, with the King describing the organisations as wonderful. The King, who has been dealing with his red boxes of state papers behind the scenes, started outpatient treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer just over two weeks ago. The audience on Wednesday (Jonathan Brady/PA) Mr Sunak was introduced into the Private Audience Room by the Kings new equerry, Lieutenant Commander Will Thornton of the Fleet Air Arm, who was making his formal debut in the role. His popular and trusted predecessor, Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Thompson, has been promoted to senior equerry to the King and Queen a more executive and less public-facing role. Mr Sunak, who previously revealed the Kings illness had been caught early, telephoned Charles at Sandringham to wish him well two days after his health condition was announced to the nation. It was a busy afternoon for the King on Wednesday, with the Privy Council the oldest form of legislative assembly still functioning in the UK beginning at 4.30pm. Traditionally, the King and Privy Counsellors stand throughout a custom initiated by Queen Victoria after the death of Prince Albert when she wanted to speed up proceedings and reduce her public duties. The PM and the King seated for the audience (Jonathan Brady/PA) Buckingham Palace has yet to comment on whether the King stood for the meeting. The Privy Council website reads: Etiquette does not allow sitting while the Sovereign is standing. To this day even The King stands at a PC meeting. At each gathering which usually takes place monthly, the Council, which is held in private, obtains the Kings formal approval to orders which have already been discussed and approved by ministers. He also approves proclamations which are formal notices covering issues such as the summoning of a new parliament, coinage and the dates of certain bank holidays. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak departing 10 Downing Street, London, to attend Prime Ministers Questions at the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday (Jordan Pettitt/PA) At 5.45pm, the King met Mr Sunak, following Prime Ministers Questions in the House of Commons, as is tradition. There will have been much to discuss during the private one-to one, which came a day after the Kings son and heir the Prince of Wales risked controversy by issuing a strongly worded plea for peace in Gaza. Charles, who only acceded to the throne 17 months ago, has faced a difficult start to 2024, with a three-night hospital stay for a procedure on an enlarged prostate, during which time his cancer not prostate cancer was discovered. Meanwhile, his daughter-in-law the Princess of Wales is recovering after major abdominal surgery, but is not expected to be back on official duties until after Easter. Last year following the Christmas break, the King held his first audiences of the year with Mr Sunak on January 31. In October 2022, the King famously welcomed the then-prime minister Liz Truss to an audience with the words: Back again? Dear oh dear. The audience can take place over the phone, with Charles and Mr Sunak speaking on February 22 last year while the Prime Minister was dealing with post-Brexit negotiations on the Northern Ireland Protocol. Queen Elizabeth II switched to telephone calls with Boris Johnson during the Covid pandemic. The Queen held her weekly Audience with the Prime Minister today by telephone. Her Majesty pictured this evening at Windsor Castle has held a weekly Audience with her Prime Minister throughout her reign. pic.twitter.com/9rYoLTfkO4 The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 25, 2020 In a 1992 documentary filmed to mark her 40th year on the throne, the late Queen gave her view on the importance of the meetings with her PMs. They unburden themselves or tell me what is going on or if they have any problems, and sometimes I can help in some way as well, she said. They know I can be impartial and it is rather nice to feel one is a sponge. Occasionally one can put ones point of view and perhaps they have not seen it from that angle. As head of state, the King must be politically neutral and act on the advice of his Government in political matters, but he can advise and warn his ministers including the PM. A slice of A16 La Palas Roman-style pizza topped with braised escarole, anchovies, fior di latte and onion cream. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle San Franciscos A16 has long been known for executing Italian classics well, and its newest restaurant is no different. A16 La Pala, a casual spinoff that serves Roman-style pizza, focaccia sandwiches and pastries, opened at the Ferry Building earlier this month. There, a glass case is set with thin, rectangular slices of pizza al taglio ($8-$11) with toppings like roasted cherry tomatoes, soppressata or braised escarole. Even in the Bay Areas rich pizza scene, Roman-style spots remain few and far between and one of the best, Pollara Pizzeria in Berkeley, closed last year. La Palas paninis ($14) are similarly simple, filled with cured meats and cheeses on fresh focaccia. (If youre lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a whole pan of the golden dimpled bread emerging from the oven). Shelves throughout the space bring a dream Italian pantry to life, stocked with dried pasta, imported olive oils and jars of spicy Calabrian chile paste. There are also Italian sweets, like cannoli and lemon granita. Soon, La Pala will serve beer and wine. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Inside the newly opened A16 La Pala at the Ferry Building. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle There are three tables and one high counter in the small space, which was once the longtime home of Cowgirl Creamery (and until recently, a temporary A16 pop-up). Or, take your warm pizza to go and find a waterfront bench on the Embarcadero. A16 opened in San Francisco in 2004 and became a destination for wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and Italian wine. Owner and wine director Shelley Lindgren later expanded A16 to Oakland and Tokyo. La Pala joins a bevy of new places to eat at the Ferry Building; its next to Arab bakery Reems and steps away from a Cambodian noodle bar coming this spring from the owner of Oaklands acclaimed Nyum Bai. Here are four of the best things to try at La Pala. Marinara pizza al taglio Advertisement Article continues below this ad Marinara pizza al taglio from La Pala, an A16 spinoff at the Ferry Building in San Francisco. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle Sometimes, simple is best. La Palas marinara pizza is topped with just enough tomato sauce, oregano and thin shards of garlic. Its the most stripped-down way to enjoy the thin, crispy-bottomed dough. Ramini panino al taglio Panino with proscuitto, stracciatella cheese and pesto from A16 La Pala in San Francisco. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle The Ramini panino is one of La Palas bestsellers so far, and for good reason. Its a classic combination of salty prosciutto, creamy stracciatella cheese and basil pesto on that spongy focaccia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Escarola pizza al taglio This is a super creamy pizza, thanks to fior di latte mozzarella and crema di cipolla (onion cream). It gets a little bitterness from tender, braised escarole and slivers of salinity from anchovies. Anything in the pantry San Franciscos A16 La Pala is stocked with Italian goods, from pasta to olive oils. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle Make any Italian home-cooking project infinitely better by raiding La Palas pantry. Theres pasta, sauces, condiments and cookbooks. Grab chubby paccheri pasta; anchovy paste from Rizzoli, a fifth-generation fish preserving company in Parma; and a can of D.O.P. San Marzano tomatoes. Or splurge on a $40 bottle of balsamic vinegar from Massimo Bottura, the chef of the famed three-Michelin-star Osteria Francescana in Modena. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Labours amendment calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza has been approved in the House of Commons amid chaotic scenes. SNP MPs and some Conservatives walked out of the chamber in protest at Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyles handling of the Gaza ceasefire debate. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt pulled the Governments participation, claiming Sir Lindsay had hijacked the debate and undermined the confidence of the House in its long-standing rules by selecting Labours bid to amend the SNP motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The developments meant Sir Keir Starmer avoided another damaging revolt over the Middle East issue. It had been expected that Sir Lindsay would select just the Governments amendment seeking an immediate humanitarian pause to the Israel-Hamas conflict, which could pave the way for a more permanent stop in fighting. But instead, he decided that the Commons would first vote on Labours calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire before moving on to further votes on the SNPs original motion, and then the Governments proposals if either of the first two were to fail to garner enough support. Today should have been about a ceasefire in Gaza. Its why the SNP brought forward our motion. Westminster blocked our chance at a straight vote due to the actions of the Speaker and Labour Party. We will continue to speak up for those suffering as a result of this conflict. Stephen Flynn MP (@StephenFlynnSNP) February 21, 2024 The move sparked fury from the Conservative and SNP benches. Sir Lindsay, who was first elected as a Labour MP but followed tradition following his election as Speaker by relinquishing his party affiliation, was accused of upending long-standing parliamentary conventions under which rival opposition amendments to an Opposition Day debate are not usually chosen alongside Government amendments. More than 30 MPs have declared no confidence in him by signing an early day motion outlining their opposition to him remaining in post. Conservative MP William Wragg, who called for the Speaker to resign, later tried to make the House of Commons sit in private but MPs rejected the proposal. Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle apologised to the Commons amid shouts of resign from some MPs (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Sir Lindsay apologised to the Commons, telling MPs amid shouts of resign: I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologise for how its ended up. He said he took the decision to allow all sides to express their views and that he was very, very concerned about the security of all members. Sir Lindsay also expressed regret that SNP MPs were ultimately unable to vote on their proposition. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said he would take significant convincing that the Speakers position was not now intolerable and claimed his party had been treated with complete and utter contempt. He told the PA news agency he was disappointed that a pantomime in the Commons is detracting from the crisis in Gaza. Mr Flynn also called for an investigation as he appeared to suggest Sir Keir and Labour chief whip Alan Campbell exerted pressure on the Speaker ahead of his decision to pick Labours amendment. Labours amendment was approved without any division to be voted on. Had the Speaker not chosen Labours amendment for debate, Labour MPs in favour of a ceasefire could have been pushed to back the Scottish nationalists motion, in a repeat of a major rebellion over the Middle East issue in November. Then, 56 Labour MPs and 10 shadow ministers and parliamentary aides broke ranks to back an SNP motion. In an apparent attempt to prevent Wednesdays vote from reopening divisions in the party, the Labour leadership on Tuesday put forward its own wording, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. After the debate, Labour leader Sir Keir hit out at the Tories and SNP for choosing political games over serious solutions, saying only his party will put country over party and silly political games in order to deliver. Labours motion emphasises that this involves both sides agreeing to lay down their arms and the return of all hostages taken by Hamas militants, and calls for a diplomatic process for achieving a two-state solution and a lasting peace. The original SNP motion is shorter, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages held by Hamas and an end to the collective punishment of the Palestinian people following Hamass October 7 attacks. The Commons debate took place as thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators took part in a rally in Parliament Square. The Israel-Hamas conflict has now been raging for more than four months (AP) The commotion in Parliament drew widespread criticism, with Palestinian ambassador to the UK Husam Zomlot telling LBC: Its very disgraceful. Today we have seen British politics at its worst. ActionAid UKs chief executive Halima Begum said: We are extremely disappointed to see the utter paralysis in Parliament this evening. Democracy is a precious commodity and should be treated as such. A great disservice has been done to the British people, who expected their political parties and elected representatives to conduct a meaningful debate concerning an issue on which depends the lives of over a hundred Israeli hostages, and hundreds of thousands of Gazans suffering one of the most acute humanitarian crises we have seen in recent times. Care International UKs chief Helen McEachern said: I am dismayed by the political theatrics we are witnessing in the House of Commons. Arguments over parliamentary procedure do nothing to assist the people of Gaza. With nowhere to go, they live without dignity or safety, dying from bombs and disease in their thousands. The war began when Hamas-led militants rampaged into southern Israel on October 7, killing some 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage. The Palestinian militant group officially still holds around 130 captives but about a quarter of those are believed to be dead. Israel has laid waste to much of the Palestinian territory during its retaliation. Gazas Hamas-run health ministry estimates more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed during the conflict. Getting 'sloshed' or 'mashed' on a night out is part of Britain's drinking culture. (Getty Images) (Getty Images) Brits have always had a way with words. Theres no limit to the creativity: from the inspiring literary works of Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and George Orwell, to coming up with hundreds of different words to say someone is drunk. Yes, thats right; Britons have designated 546 words that can be used to describe being in a state of drunkenness - dubbed drunkonyms. According to a study carried out by German researchers, the UKs long-standing drinking culture and dry sense of humour has contributed to such a long list of words. The report, published in the Yearbook of German Cognitive Linguistics Association, found that Brits have been building up a wealth of terms for states of drunkenness for a long time. We have shown that there are (at least until recently) productive patterns of creating new words meaning drunk, or rather pissed, the authors said. We can say that the wide range of words observed in the already existing lists of drunkonyms seems to support the view that there is a large amount of words that one could potentially use to creatively express drunkenness in English. Cheers to getting 'gazeboed'. (Getty Images) (Getty Images/iStockphoto) Comedian Michael McIntyre previously observed that Brits could use just about any word to confer drunkenness by simply adding -ed to the end, and saying, I got completely at the start of a sentence. Linguists Professor Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer of Chemnitz University of Technology and Peter Uhrig of Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, decided to test the theory that any word could be used, and found it to be somewhat accurate. The extensive list of examples included words like trolleyed, gazeboed, cabbaged, and bladdered. Prof Sanchez-Stockhammer told The Times that the ability to use completely unrelated words in this way is unique to the British. This humorous modifying of words is only possible because of the way sentences are constructed in English and because the British really enjoy witty wordplay. For example, it would not work in German, she said. Gazeboed and carparked are funny because there is no direct relation between the base word and the meaning drunk. Joe McGowan, a linguist expert and CEO of McGowan Transcriptions, who was not involved in the study, said the findings were both fascinating and hilarious. As a nation known for its pub culture and penchant for revelry, the English language has evolved to accommodate the various nuances and degrees of intoxication, he said. From the casual 'tipsy' to the downright obscure 'steam-pigged,' each word carries its connotations and imagery, allowing for precise communication about one's state of drunkenness. As to why Brits have been able to be so creative with drunkonyms, McGowan explains: Humans have a natural inclination to play with words, whether for comedic effect, social bonding, or sheer linguistic experimentation. The phenomenon of creating new words and expressions, especially in informal contexts like slang or colloquial speech, is a testament to our innate creativity and adaptability. Top 10 words for drunk Bladdered Langered Legless Mashed Merry Mullered Pickled Pie-eyed Plastered Sloshed Watch: Why Alcohol Can Disrupt Healthy Sleep Alcohol: Read more A minister has told an inquiry he was angry with former defence secretary Ben Wallace after discovering UK special forces officers knew about Afghanistan death squad allegations before he described them as untrue in the House of Commons. Johnny Mercer wrote to Ben Wallace in August 2020 shortly after emails surfaced in The Sunday Times which showed senior special forces officers expressed serious concerns about the killings of 33 people in 11 night raids in the war-torn nation in 2011. The letter, shown to the Afghanistan Inquiry on Wednesday, detailed how he told Mr Wallace it was completely unacceptable he had been allowed to make statements to the Commons in January 2020 when people knew them to be incorrect. Mr Mercer said he was angry that the director of special forces, the chief of the general staff and the defence secretary had not done their job that was incumbent upon them with their rank and privileges in those organisations. Johnny Mercer said his time under Ben Wallace was very difficult (James Manning/PA) He described his time working under Mr Wallace as very difficult, adding: I did not enjoy it and it placed me in a number of very, very uncomfortable positions. The inquiry will examine whether a special forces unit, known to the probe as UKSF1, had a policy of executing males of fighting age who posed no threat in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. Afghan families have accused UK special forces of conducting a campaign of murder against civilians, while senior officers and personnel at the Ministry of Defence sought to prevent adequate investigation. In his letter to Mr Wallace in August 2020, Mr Mercer said: That I have been allowed to read out statements to the House of Commons that individuals in strategic appointments in the department knew to be incorrect is completely unacceptable. These were clearly not complaints by a small number of individuals within the investigations team but widespread. I have continually down-played these allegations in public too to support UKSF1 and the department. That was clearly a mistake. Mr Mercer told the then defence secretary that he wanted to formally request an opportunity to correct the record in the House of Commons. Ending the letter, Mr Mercer said: Finally, this whole episode makes me very sad. I like you have dedicated my political career to improving the lot of those who serve both currently and veterans. I repeatedly warned against the outcome, and yet it has happened, and I have suffered significant reputational damage in my pursuit of ending vexatious claims that have ruined the lives of so many of our finest people. I will continue in this pursuit, but this boil must be lanced, and I can never be put in this position again. Asked by counsel to the inquiry Oliver Glasgow KC what the boil that must be lanced was, the minister said: The allegations concerned with this inquiry. Mr Mercer said he raised his concerns about being kept in the dark with Mr Wallace and the chief of the defence staff on the phone while away on holiday in France. He told the probe: So there were two issues one was it was completely unacceptable that Id asked to see this information and the first I read about it was in The Sunday Times. Secondarily, I was very cross that I had been allowed to make a statement in the House of Commons in January that year that was clearly incorrect when faced with the evidence that existed within my own department and for me that was a kind of red line being crossed, in terms of were not on the same side here. Mr Glasgow then asked: So in effect, the concerns as you explained them you were, would it be fair to say angry that you had not been told the true picture? Mr Mercer replied: Mr Glasgow, I dont disguise the fact that I am angry with these people. The fact Im sat here today going through this is because they have not done their job that was incumbent upon them with their rank and privileges in those organisations and yes, Im angry about that. Mr Glasgow continued: And when you say them, can you tell us who those individuals are? Mr Mercer said: Senior leaders within the Ministry of Defence and within UKSF. The minister went on to confirm two of the individuals were the director of special forces and the chief of the general staff. Mr Glasgow went on: Secretary of state? Mr Mercer said: Yeah, my time in that department was very difficult, I did not enjoy it and it placed me in a number of very, very uncomfortable positions. Two Royal Military Police investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the inquiry. No charges were brought under Operation Northmoor a 10 million investigation which was set up in 2014 to examine allegations of executions by special forces, including those of children. Operation Cestro saw three soldiers referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority, but none of them were prosecuted. The inquiry continues. A dog owners decomposing body was discovered in his home shortly after a burglary suspect told police he was asked to break in and take his labradoodle for a walk, a court heard. Donald Patience, 45, was found underneath a duvet cover by officers who responded to reports of a burglary at his end terrace house in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, on the morning of August 22 last year. Ian Connell, 39, is on trial at Manchester Crown Court accused of murdering Mr Patience by strangling him at the address at some time from August 19 onwards. The court previously heard a postman called 999 when he saw a male figure climbing through a rear window of the property in Ainsworth Road and heard a noise like someone trying to force entry. The same male later emerged from the back garden with a medium-sized, fluffy white dog on a lead, jurors were told. Police officers outside Donald Patiences property in Ainsworth Road, Radcliffe (Peter Byrne/PA) Connell was still at the scene with the labradoodle when police arrived to investigate. When officers approached he gave his name, date of birth and said he was of no fixed abode. In a statement read to the court, Pc Alex Lythgoe said: I asked who did the dog belong to and he said it was his mate Donalds, who he worked for. He said Donald had multiple properties but was currently in Scotland and he had spoken to Donald on the phone and was asked to enter the house and get his dog out. Connell went on to explain to the officer that he had a key to the property but it snapped in the door lock, jurors heard. Pc Lythgoe said: He said he phoned Donald back who told him to break in and claimed he was taking the dog for a walk when we stopped him. The defendant was found to be in possession of a wallet containing Mr Patiences driving licence and library card, as well as four latex gloves. Connell was taken into custody on suspicion of burglary before other officers conducted a thorough search of the unkempt property and found Mr Patiences concealed body at the bottom of his staircase. Opening the prosecution case on Tuesday, Michael Hayton KC told jurors that Mr Patience was an educated man who had roots in Scotland. Mr Patience, more commonly known by his middle name Prentice, had access to family money from property, said the prosecutor. He said Mr Patiences access to money and also perhaps his good nature led to others taking advantage of him, abusing his generosity and using his access to funds. The Crown say one such person who sought to take advantage in this way was Ian Connell, and money was central to many of the communications between the two men in the lead-up to Mr Patiences death. The only possible explanation for Mr Patiences death is that pressure was applied to his neck until he was dead. He was strangled to death. The most likely explanation is that it followed an argument of some sort about money. Mr Patience was pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic shortly after midday as police later took his labradoodle to a local animal sanctuary. Connell, of Duke Street, Bolton, denies the murder of Mr Patience who he later told detectives he loved like a brother. He has also pleaded not guilty to an alternative count of manslaughter. Campaigners are expected to protest against the conviction of an asylum seeker for the manslaughter of his fellow migrants who drowned trying to cross the English Channel. Ibrahima Bah, who is over 18, was found guilty of killing four migrants while seeking passage from France to the UK in an unseaworthy dinghy he piloted on December 14 2022. During a retrial at Canterbury Crown Court, Bah said smugglers threatened to kill him if he did not pilot the boat, but the prosecution said he was not telling the truth and he owed his fellow passengers a duty of care as their pilot. Jurors reached a majority verdict of 10 to two in what is believed to be the first conviction of its kind. The Senegalese national will be sentenced on Friday. Following the verdict on Monday, Captain Support UK, a solidarity platform for those accused of driving boats to Europe, said Bahs conviction was a violent escalation in the persecution of migrants to Stop the Boats. Posting on X, the group said: Join us to protest the unjust conviction of Ibrahima Bah, the teenage survivor of the 2022 channel shipwreck, and to stand in solidarity with all those incarcerated and criminalised for seeking freedom of movement. Supporters of Bah will attend the sentencing at Canterbury Crown Court at 2pm, followed by a demonstration planned outside the Home Office in London at 6pm. National charity the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants also encouraged people to take part in the call to action. The refugee and migrants justice campaigners said on X: We stand in solidarity and rage with Ibrahima Bah. Instead of condemning this young man, the blame for deaths in the Channel should be placed squarely where it lies with this governments hateful policies that make it impossible for people to come to this country safely. Bah was also found unanimously guilty of facilitating illegal entry to the UK. Reacting to the verdicts, illegal immigration minister Michael Tomlinson posted on X: Ibrahima Bah put dozens of lives in extreme danger by taking charge of a perilous and illegal small boat crossing. It is right that he has been brought to justice today. Once you get into a small boat, criminal gangs dont care whether you live or die. The conviction comes as a French refugee charity announced it was taking legal action against the British Coastguard and other French agencies over the response to the sinking dinghy on December 14 2022. Utopia 56 said it has filed the complaint of involuntary manslaughter and failure to provide assistance by French and British emergency services to the Boulogne-sur-Mer public prosecutors office in France. In a statement on February 6, spokesperson Nikolai Posner said: The authorities are constantly seeking to clear customs, while these tragedies, like the existence of mafia networks, are the direct consequences of public action at the border. If we file a complaint today, it is with the hope of never having to do so again. The charity said it has submitted allegations against the maritime prefect of the Channel and North Sea and directors of His Majestys Coastguard and Cross de Gris-Nez. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency does not routinely comment on legal matters. A spokesperson said: Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of those who were lost on December 14 2022. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch report into the events of that tragic incident is yet to be published and it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time. The Queen paid tribute to a Grenadier Guardsman posthumously awarded a Victoria Cross when she met military families supported by the regiments charity. Camilla praised the bravery of Lance Corporal James Ashworth as she chatted to his parents, Duane and Caroline Ashworth, telling them Im just full of admiration. She is Colonel of the Grenadier Guards and welcomed former soldiers and their families to Clarence House for a reception, her first engagement as patron of the Colonels Fund. The Queen poses with fund members and beneficiaries during The Colonels Fund event at Clarence House (John Stillwell/PA) Speaking about L/Cpl Ashworths actions, recognised with the British armed forces highest military decoration, she told his parents: You must be so proud, for somebody to be awarded the Victoria Cross is something else. Its unbelievable, I read his citation and couldnt believe it. L/Cpl Ashworth, 23, from Corby in Northamptonshire, was killed during an operation to eliminate a group of insurgent sharpshooters in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province, Afghanistan, in June 2012. During the firefight the soldier and his team pressed the insurgents and in the final moments L/Cpl Ashworth moved from behind a wall to get better aim to throw a grenade, exposing himself to fire and was fatally shot. His citation read: Despite the ferocity of the insurgents resistance, Ashworth refused to be beaten. His total disregard for his own safety in ensuring that the last grenade was posted accurately was the gallant last action of a soldier who had willingly placed himself in the line of fire on numerous occasions earlier in the attack. This supremely courageous and inspiring action deserves the highest recognition. Camilla talks to Lance Sergeant Markus Strydom (John Stillwell/PA) The Colonels Fund was established in 2007 and provides help with mobility aid, home improvements, employment training and counselling. Matt Elmer, a retired Grenadier Guards Colour Sergeant who serves as Regimental Casualty Officer, delivers services to those in need. He said about the veterans whom he helps: The key thing is they know Im there. We want to get people back on their feet, so to speak. They might be fine but then they might have a dip but all they have to do is pick up the phone and I am there. A satellite that has been in orbit for nearly 30 years has fallen back down through the Earths atmosphere, the European Space Agency (Esa) has said. The ERS-2 satellite fell in the North Pacific Ocean somewhere between Alaska and Hawaii at around 5.17pm GMT on Wednesday, bringing to an end a nearly three-decade-long orbit. The satellite was launched in 1995 following on from its sister satellite, ERS-1, which had launched four years earlier. And, last but not least, the official report. Goodnight everyone. Goodnight ERS-2.https://t.co/IHGEMFQ7Ze#ERS2reentry ESA Operations (@esaoperations) February 21, 2024 At the time, they were both the most sophisticated Earth observation satellites ever developed. In 2011, Esa retired the still-functioning ERS-2 and began the process of deorbiting. Throughout its working life, ERS-2 collected data on the Earths diminishing polar ice, changing land surfaces, rising sea levels, warming oceans, and atmospheric chemistry. ERS-2 was also called upon to monitor natural disasters, such as severe floods and earthquakes, in remote parts of the world. Vanderpump Rules star Tom Sandoval has apologised for comparing the firestorm over his affair with co-star Raquel Leviss to the murder of George Floyd. The affair, commonly referred to as Scandoval, was a pop culture phenomenon when it was exposed last year. In an interview with the New York Times Magazine, under the headline How Tom Sandoval became the most hated man in America, the reality star was asked why he thought it had captured the public imagination. He replied: Im not a pop culture historian really, but I witnessed the OJ Simpson thing and George Floyd and all these big things, which is really weird to compare this to that, I think, but do you think in a weird way its a little bit of the same? The journalist he was speaking to, Irina Aleksander, attempted to provide context, noting: He was trying to express the oddity of becoming the symbolic centre of a nationwide discussion and a major news story; what he communicated instead was something more honest, which is just how much the experience had made him lose perspective. However, his comments quickly went viral. He has since apologised, writing on Instagram: My intentions behind the comments I made in New York Times magazine were to explain the level of national media attention my affair received. The comparison was inappropriate and ignorant. Im incredibly sorry and embarrassed. The news that Sandoval had been cheating on his long-term partner Ariana Madix first broke in March 2023. The pair were both stars of US reality show Vanderpump Rules, which follows the servers and bartenders of restaurateur Lisa Vanderpumps West Hollywood restaurant SUR (Sexy Unique Restaurant). They first confirmed they were in a relationship in February 2014, during a Vanderpump Rules reunion. It later emerged that their relationship overlapped with Sandovals relationship with cast member Kristen Doute. Since their high-profile split, Madix has been cast in the role of Roxie Hart in Chicago on Broadway. She was cheered on by a number of her Vanderpump co-stars on her opening night. Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules is currently airing on streaming service Hayu. The heads of the Arctic penal colony where Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny was detained and killed will be banned from the UK and see their assets frozen under new measures announced by Lord David Cameron. Britain is the first country to impose sanctions in response to the politicians death, which has been widely blamed on the Kremlin, the Foreign Office said. Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who allegedly oversaw the brutal prison camp where Mr Navalny was kept in solitary confinement for up to two weeks at a time, is among those targeted, according to a statement from the department on Wednesday. Five others have also been sanctioned for activity that violates the right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and the right to life, the Government said. Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, who will later renew condemnation of Russias war in Ukraine when he speaks at a meeting of foreign ministers from the G20 nations in Rio, said no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian regime. But Conservative chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Alicia Kearns MP, said Britain needs to go a lot further. Those targeted have been identified as: Colonel Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin head of the IK-3 Arctic colony nicknamed Polar Wolf Lieutenant Colonel Sergey Nikolaevich Korzhov deputy head Lieutenant Colonel Vasily Alexandrovich Vydrin deputy head Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir Ivanovich Pilipchik deputy head Lieutenant Colonel Aleksandr Vladimirovich Golyakov deputy head Colonel Aleksandr Valerievich Obraztsov deputy head Lord Cameron said: Its clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him. FSB operatives poisoned him with Novichok in 2020, they imprisoned him for peaceful political activities, and they sent him to an Arctic penal colony. No-one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system. Thats why were today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion we will hold them accountable. Responding to the announcement, Ms Kearns said in a tweet on X: We need to go further than this. A lot further. At a summit later on Wednesday, the Foreign Secretary and counterparts from other major countries will highlight what they view as an assault on international norms, ranging from Russia to the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The US has promised its own major sanctions package on Friday in response to Mr Navalnys death. We need to go further than this. A lot further. https://t.co/jS2QvlBZXw Alicia Kearns MP (@aliciakearns) February 21, 2024 Lord Cameron is expected to set out the consequences Russia will face from the UK later as he also takes aim at what he sees as a litany of hypocrisy from the Kremlin over Ukraine. His Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, is expected to be among the ministers at the G20 gathering. This week marks two years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the death of Mr Navalny, which Foreign Office minister Leo Docherty has described as murder, has added to international outrage about the regime in Moscow. His death deprived the Russian opposition of an influential figure less than a month before an election that is all but certain to give Mr Putin another six years in power. The Kremlin has dismissed suggestions it is to blame. The summit in Rio de Janeiro comes after Lord Cameron visited the Falkland Islands and Paraguay on Monday and Tuesday. He will also head to New York for a United Nations session on Ukraine on Friday. Mr Navalny was one of the most prominent and persistent critics of the Kremlin, remaining a thorn in Mr Putins side even while behind bars via scathing attacks that his associates continued to post on social media. He had been transferred in December to the town of Kharp, in the remote Yamalo-Nenets region notorious for its long and severe winters, in a move decried by his supporters as yet another attempt to silence him. The politicians family has since been denied access to his body as Moscow continues to deny allegations of a cover-up. On Wednesday, Rishi Sunak told the Commons that the UK and its allies were considering all options to respond to the death of Mr Navalny. The Prime Minister said: The whole House will join me in sending our deepest condolences to the family of Alexei Navalny. He died for a cause to which he dedicated his whole life, freedom. And to return home knowing that (Vladimir) Putin had already tried to have him killed was one of the most courageous acts of our time. Together with our allies we are considering all options to hold Russia and Putin to account and this morning we sanctioned those running the prison where Alexei Navalnys body still lies. The Welsh Governments new farm subsidy scheme will decimate farming communities in Wales, Rishi Sunak has warned. Farmers will have to commit to planting trees on 10% of their land and allocate another 10% for wildlife habitats, as part of the Labour-run governments proposals. The Sustainable Farming Scheme, which is set to replace farming subsidies after Brexit, has prompted protests by farmers in Wales. On Wednesday, the Prime Minister said the plans were the opposite of what is needed. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during Prime Ministers Questions in the Commons on Wednesday (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) He told the Commons: On this side of the House we are supporting farmers with more money to grow more British food, in contrast to the plans that she highlighted which would decimate farming communities in Wales. It is the opposite of what is needed. While we will always back our rural communities across the UK, it is Labour that would take them back to square one. This came in response to Conservative MP Virginia Crosbie who called for the agricultural budget to be ringfenced during Prime Ministers Questions. The Ynys Mon MP said: Does the Prime Minister agree with me and Welsh farmers like Gareth Wyn Jones that our farmers and food security are vital and that the agricultural budget should be ringfenced? Unlike the Welsh Labour government propped up by Plaid (Cymru), which is determined to force our farmers out of business with its approach to nitrate vulnerable zones, TB (tuberculosis) and its new Sustainable Farming Scheme, which using Welsh Governments own analysis is forecast to result in 5,500 job losses and a 200 million hit to the Welsh economy. Elsewhere in the session, Labour MP Chris Elmore accused the Government of making a grubby deal with steel giant Tata steel and failing to protect the industry. Hundreds of people have protested in Port Talbot and Newport against Tatas plans to shut down blast furnaces as it switches to a more environmentally friendly way of producing steel. The MP for Ogmore said: On the weekend the people of south Wales marched in support of their steel industry. Following the Governments grubby deal with Tata it is now placing thousands of jobs at risk in Port Talbot and beyond. The Prime Minister is failing to protect our steel industry because he failed to place a red line on protecting jobs at the plant. So the Prime Minister now has a choice work with the unions, Tata and the workforce to protect the industry and the jobs with investment or to walk away and do what Tories always do and abandon south Wales communities yet again. Workers from Tatas Port Talbot steelworks gather in Westminster following the announcement that Tata was planning to close blast furnaces at the countrys biggest steel plant in South Wales (Lucy North/PA) Mr Sunak replied: This Government has worked hard to secure a long-term sustainable future for Welsh steel making and to grow the legacy of this important industry, thats why in the pandemic we stepped in to support Celsa, which he knows, safeguarding over 1,000 jobs and ensuring that that plant was sustainable. Its why we agreed one of the largest cash grants of a half a billion to Tata Steel to safeguard at least 5,000 jobs which would otherwise have been lost. And perhaps he might want to ask why the Welsh Labour Government did not put a penny in to support that deal. Around 2,800 jobs would be at risk if Tatas plans go ahead. The firm has said it will invest 750 million in an electric arc furnace, alongside funding for a support package for the employees expected to be made redundant during the transition. The UK Government has committed to investing 500 million at the site. A substance use disorder treatment bed at Walden House, a drug rehabilitation center in San Francisco. A shortage of treatment options for people who use drugs could stymie a measure on the March ballot. Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle 2022 Regarding Endorsement: San Franciscos Proposition F has too many question marks to support (Editorial, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 17): I note the editorial boards position on Proposition F does not express opposition to the policy that County Adult Assistance Program recipients who suffer from addiction should be required to engage in treatment to remain eligible to receive cash assistance. Rather, the editorial board opposes the initiative because it is skeptical that the San Francisco Human Services Agency can successfully implement it. I take extreme exception to this notion. In support of the boards argument, anonymous sources are cited who claim the department is already too short-staffed to ensure that all of its Medi-Cal eligible clients are enrolled in the state insurance program. This statement is grossly inaccurate and not at all supported by the departments monthly data reports showing that since January 2021, about 97% of current assistance clients on Medi-Cal. Undoubtedly, the implementation of Prop. F will be complex and will require extensive planning and program development within the Human Services Agency and in conjunction with the Department of Public Health and the nonprofit treatment providers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad However, skepticism that the Human Services Agency can pull off the implementation of a complex program is a specious reason to oppose the initiative. Trent Rhorer, executive director, San Francisco Human Services Agency Porter stance illogical Regarding Endorsement: Katie Porter deserves to make her case for Senate to California voters in November (Editorial, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 17): In the first paragraph of your endorsement, you make the important point that California needs a senator with a deep understanding of our disparate needs and the ability to secure billions of federal dollars for our state. Why then would you endorse Rep. Katie Porter, the only one of the three leading Democratic candidates who has essentially staked her candidacy on opposing earmarks? Advertisement Article continues below this ad This logical disconnect is perplexing, as is your acknowledgment that her debate performance was the worst of the three (agreed), but that we should trust you that she was great in a private interview. Were lucky in California that we can still have civil candidate debates. Id rather trust what I saw and heard from each candidate than your poorly reasoned endorsement. Peter Yedidia, San Francisco Theres no connection Regarding Annual S.F. Day of Remembrance event shifts focus to Palestinians displacement (Bay Area, SFChronicle.com, Feb. 17): Once again two unrelated and dissimilar tragedies are conflated. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The disgraceful incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II by the United States has nothing in common with the current crisis in the Middle East. Japanese Americans peacefully living in the United States did not rape and murder anyone. Hamas did and continues to do so. Hamas started this crisis on Oct. 7 with its ruthless and barbaric attack on Israeli civilians. Hamas still holds more than 100 Israeli hostages, many of whom are women. As released captives have reported sexual abuse in captivity, we must assume those being held are suffering the same fate intensifying the urgency to secure their release. This crisis is over the day Hamas releases all of the hostages. Why has it not done so? Anyone can see how holding them has so greatly served Hamas politically at the expense of the Palestinian people. Louise Kimball, Berkeley Conflicting goals Regarding Netanyahu vows to finish the job in Gaza (Nation & World, Feb. 19): Albert Einstein said, You cannot simultaneously prevent and prepare for war. Yet there it is in two succeeding paragraphs of the story about the assault on Gaza: The United States, Israels top ally, says it still hopes to broker a cease-fire followed immediately by The U.S. also says it will veto another draft U.N. resolution calling for a cease-fire. Advertisement Article continues below this ad So the Biden administration says to stop bombing while sending more bombs and encourages humanitarian aid while cutting off funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, which is providing that aid. Its sort of like sending thoughts and prayers after a mass shooting. WASHINGTON Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito attempted an I told you so on Tuesday when he criticized a judges dismissal of potential jurors in a workplace discrimination case because they believed homosexuality is a sin. Alito said thats exactly the type of outcome he warned against when, against his objections, the Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage. Alito said hed anticipated that Americans would be labeled as bigots unless they hid their traditional religious beliefs about homosexual conduct. The court had made clear the gay marriage decision should not be used in that way, Alito said, but I am afraid this admonition is not being heeded by our society. Alito was writing about the Supreme Courts rejection of an appeal of a workplace bias lawsuit against the Missouri Department of Corrections by an employee, Jean Finney, who is a lesbian. While Alito agreed with his colleagues that the appeal should be rejected because of other factors, he criticized the trial judges decision to reject some jurors for their religious beliefs. When a court, a quintessential state actor, finds that a person is ineligible to serve on a jury because of his or her religious beliefs, that decision implicates fundamental rights, he wrote. The Missouri Court of Appeals said the questions asked of jurors appropriately focused on whether they had strong feelings about homosexuality because Finneys sexual orientation was at the heart of her claim that shed been harassed and mistreated. Other prospective jurors who identified as religious or Christian but did not express strong views on homosexuality were not eliminated. The Missouri Department of Corrections did not raise objections during the trial to dismissing the potential jurors so could not do so later, the appeals court said. Thats also the reason Alito said he reluctantly agreed that the correction departments appeal should be denied. Supreme Court Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr. Still, thirteen states had urged the high court to take the case to protect jurors from religious discrimination in the jury box. The religious rights group Alliance Defending Freedom which has filed several successful religious appeals at the Supreme Court in recent years, had also asked the Supreme Court to weigh in. In the majority opinion on same-sex marriage authored by Justice Anthony Kennedy in 2015, he emphasized that religions, and those who adhere to religious doctrines, may continue to advocate with utmost, sincere conviction that, by divine precepts, same-sex marriage should not be condoned. The First Amendment ensures that religious organizations and persons are given proper protection as they seek to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so central to their lives and faiths, and to their own deep aspirations to continue the family structure they have long revered, Kennedy wrote. But in his dissent one of four written by justices Alito express skepticism that would be allowed to happen. We will soon see whether this proves to be true, he wrote. I assume that those who cling to old beliefs will be able to whisper their thoughts in the recesses of their homes, but if they repeat those views in public, they will risk being labeled as bigots and treated as such by governments, employers, and schools. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alito criticizes dismissal of jurors who believe homosexuality is a sin Multiple people on an American Airlines flight pulled a fellow passenger to the floor after he tried to open one of the emergency exits, forcing the plane to return to Albuquerque, New Mexico, shortly after takeoff, according to multiple passengers. Flight 1219 to Chicago returned to ABQ shortly after takeoff due to a disturbance in the cabin involving a disruptive customer, an American Airlines spokesperson said in a statement. The flight landed safely and the aircraft was met by local law enforcement upon arrival. The incident is just one in a series of recent passenger disruptions on flights that have left some travelers on high alert. As of Sunday, there have been more than 250 unruly passenger incidents reported to the FAA by flight crews this year, according to the agency. The number of reports spiked to nearly 6,000 in 2021, according to FAA data, as more passengers returned to air travel following a decline during the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 2,000 unruly passenger reports were made in both 2022 and 2023, the data shows. The incident Tuesday began about twenty minutes into the flight, passenger Zach Etkind told CNN. I heard people yelling in the back I thought guys were fighting but it was a man trying to open the door. The man, who was sitting at the emergency exit, cracked open the window that was protecting the handle on the door, passenger Emma Ritz told CNN affiliate KOAT. He ripped down the handle where it exposed some of the emergency exit and all the wind came rushing down, Ritz said. Blaze Ward, who says he was among a group of passengers that intervened, told KOAT the man had the safety mechanism down, with both hands on the lever and he was yanking it. He had it pretty well pulled I could hear the actual difference in pressure there was a whistling, Ward said. Multiple passengers got the man to the ground and flight attendants restrained him with duct tape and flexi cuffs, Etkind said. He took video on the plane that shows a scuffle on the aisle floor while several men are subduing someone. Once we landed, we all got off and people could see the police pull up to the plane. We could watch from the terminal, Etkind said. Another video from the incident shows four police officers escorting someone from the plane. Its not clear whether there was an arrest or if any charges are pending. The flight took off at 1:54 p.m. and landed safely back at the airport at 2:45 p.m., a spokesperson for Albuquerque International Sunport said. The FAA and the Albuquerque Division of the FBI are investigating, according to statements from each agency. Video from the incident shows four police officers escorting someone from the plane. Its not clear whether there was an arrest or if any charges are pending. - Layzdubz Unruly passengers have also caused disruptions in international travel. Earlier this month, a Canadian man was arrested in Thailand after allegedly opening a planes door on a flight that was waiting to take off, causing the evacuation slide to deploy. In May, a man who opened the door of a plane as it was landing in South Korea told police he felt suffocated and wanted to get off the plane quickly. And in November, a man on a Southwest Airlines flight opened an emergency exit door and climbed onto the planes wing while the aircraft was at a gate in New Orleans. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com An Arizona prosecutor said Wednesday that her office will not extradite the man accused of killing a woman in a New York City hotel, calling out Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's "treatment of violent criminals." Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell told reporters in Arizona that she's ordered her staff not to cooperate in any efforts to send Raad Noan Almansoori, 26, back to New York where he's wanted in connection to the slaying of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38. "This is not aimed the New York Police Department at all. I know they did a hard job, they did a good job, but we will not be agreeing to extradition," Mitchell said. "I've instructed my extradition attorneys not to agree to that. We're going to keep him here." Almansoori is being held without bail in Arizona, where he's been accused of stabbing two women. Raad Noan Almansoori in white leggings New York City. (via NBC New York) "Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by the Manhattan DA there, Alvin Bragg," Mitchell said, "I think it's safer to keep him here and keep him in custody so that he cannot be out doing this to individuals either in our state, county or anywhere in the United States." Emily Tuttle, a representative for Bragg, said it's "deeply disturbing that" Mitchell is "playing political games in a murder investigation." The Arizona prosecutor's actions are offensive to the "NYPD and all of our law enforcement partners," Tuttle added. "It is a slap in the face to them and to the victim in our case to refuse to allow us to seek justice and full accountability for a New Yorkers death," Tuttle said in a statement. The Manhattan DA's Office cited data that appeared to show murders being more common in Phoenix, the largest city in Maricopa County, as compared to New York City, in which Manhattan is one of five boroughs. In Manhattan, we are serious about New Yorkers safety, Tuttle said. New Yorks murder rate is less than half that of Phoenix. There were 198 murders in Phoenix, with about 1.6 million residents, last year as opposed to 386 in New York City, where 8.3 million people live, in 2023, according records in both cities. Bragg's office says that equals a homicide rate, per 100,000 residents, of 11.6 for Phoenix and 5 for Manhattan. Mitchell, a Republican, didn't cite any particular case or complaint she had with Bragg, a Democrat, who became Manhattans first Black district attorney in 2022 after he was elected in November 2021. Mitchell is no stranger to high profile political battles, having been hired by Senate Republicans to lead the questioning in the Supreme Court nomination fight that ended with Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation in 2018. On her Maricopa County profile page, Mitchell credits her work for the GOP in the highly publicized Kavanaugh hearings with helping her rise "to national prominence" Bragg was elected on a progressive platform aimed at re-prioritizing what the District Attorney's Office would pursue and backing away from prosecuting some misdemeanors. He and other progressive prosecutors have come under fire from traditional law enforcement groups. Almansoori was arrested in the parking garage of a Scottsdale shopping mall after automated license plate readers traced him there, officials said. "This gentlemen was going to continue this string of violence," Scottsdale Police Chief Jeff Walther said. "He was going to do so there, at the Scottsdale Fashion Square." In the New York City slaying, Oleas-Arancibia was found dead in her room at the SoHo 54 Hotel in Manhattan on Feb. 8, the NYPD has said. Officers were called to Room 1109 around 10:30 a.m. and found Oleas-Arancibia with a broken iron next to her, police said. The womans death was ruled a homicide by the medical examiner, from blunt force trauma to the head, officials said. In Arizona, Almansoori is accused of stabbing two women, one during a carjacking in Phoenix and the other, a McDonalds employee, in the restaurant's women's room in Surprise, officials said. WASHINGTON The Biden administration is considering taking unilateral action without Congress to make it harder for migrants to pass the initial screening for asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border and quickly deport recently arrived migrants who dont meet the criteria, say three U.S. officials with knowledge of the deliberations. The actions, which are still weeks away from finalization, are an effort to lower the number of migrants crossing the southern border illegally as immigration remains a top issue for voters heading into the 2024 presidential election. Under the new policies, asylum officers would be instructed to raise the standards they use in their credible fear interviews, the first screening given to asylum-seekers who are trying to avoid deportation for crossing the border illegally. And Immigration and Customs Enforcement would be told to prioritize recently arrived migrants for deportation, in a last in, first out policy, the officials said. Hundreds of migrants arrive in Ciudad Juarez to cross into the United States before Title 42 ends (David Peinado Romero / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images file) A congressional aide with knowledge of the deliberations said the Biden administration has yet to make a decision, but raising the bar on asylum and deporting more newly arrived migrants are considered low hanging fruit and actions that can be taken quickly. The three U.S. officials said it is unclear whether the policies would be achieved through executive order or a new federal regulation, which could take months to implement. Making it harder to claim asylum and fast-tracking migrants for deportation are not new ideas, but they are being considered more seriously as the Biden administration looks for ways to tamp down chaos at the border after Republicans blocked border security provisions in the National Security Supplemental bill earlier this month. Without the bill, any action the president takes unilaterally will be limited in scope because the Department of Homeland Security is short on funding. ICE is currently facing a budget shortfall of more than $500 million and may have to start cutting key services by May without more money from Congress, sources told NBC News last week. One DHS official expressed skepticism over the last in, first out policy because it would leave millions of migrants already in the U.S., including thousands of homeless migrants in major cities, in a long legal limbo as their immigration cases are pushed to the back of the line. A spokesperson for DHS emphasized that Congress should still act to avoid compromising border enforcement. If Congress once again refuses to provide the critical funding needed to support DHSs vital missions, they would be harming DHSs efforts to deliver tough and timely consequences to those who do not have a legal basis to remain in the country, the spokesperson said. There are real limits to what we can do given current funding because Congress has failed to pass a budget or respond to the Presidents two supplemental budget requests. We again call on Congress to act and provide the funding and tools our frontline personnel need. Boeing announced Wednesday that the head of the company's 737 Max program is leaving the company in a management shake-up in the wake of a January mishap that has damaged the aircraft manufacturer's reputation and cost it billions of dollars in value. Boeing Executive Vice President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes Stanley A. Deal announced several leadership changes in an email to employees Wednesday, including that Ed Clark, the head of the company's Boeings 737 Max program, has been replaced. Ed departs with my, and our, deepest gratitude for his many significant contributions over nearly 18 years of dedicated service to Boeing, Deal said. On January 5, a Boeing-manufactured Alaska Airlines plane door panel blew out midair over Portland, forcing an emergency landing. The incident prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to temporarily ground of all Boeing 737 Max 9 airplanes operating in the U.S. and subsequently increase oversight over Boeing aircraft production. Deal said the changes are part of the companys enhanced focus on ensuring that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. Our customers demand, and deserve, nothing less, he added. Problems with Boeing's Max planes predate this year's mid-air blowout. In 2018 and 2019, two Max 8 passenger jets crashed as a result of problems with a flight stabilization feature on the aircraft, killing a total of 346 people. Boeing 737 Max airplanes were subsequently grounded worldwide from March 2019 to November 2020. Airlines worldwide have been operating Max 9s, the version of the 737 Max that succeeded the Max 8, without a major incident since it entered service in 2018. However, the FAA suspended all Boeing Max production expansion in the wake of the January incident. While Alaska and United Airlines, the two U.S. carriers that operate Max 9s, have since returned them to service, Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci indicated in an interview with NBC News that his airline's future with Boeing Max planes, especially newer Max 10s, was now uncertain. Those doubts were echoed in separate comments made by United CEO Scott Kirby. BuzzFeed on Wednesday sold Complex to NTWRK, an e-commerce company specializing in collectible items rooted in street culture, in a deal that further shrinks the struggling Jonah Peretti-led digital media empire that was once synonymous with virality and the social media age. The $108.6 million sale of much of Complex Networks, which BuzzFeed purchased three years ago for $300 million, came as the company announced it would lay off 16% of its staff ahead of a planned strategic restructuring next week to enhance the companys profitability and reduce centralized costs. BuzzFeed will retain the First We Feast food-centric brand which produces the YouTube series Hot Ones, and will operate it independently along with the companys other brands BuzzFeed, HuffPost and Tasty. The sale of Complex represents an important strategic step for BuzzFeed, Inc. as we adapt our business to be more profitable, more nimble, and more innovative, said Peretti, the chief executive of BuzzFeed. This is also an opportunity to unlock greater value for the Complex brand by combining it with NTWRKs expansive, commerce-driven business. The uniting of NTWRK and Complex is, indeed, something of a natural marriage. NTWRK serves as a marketplace for many of the items that Complex covers, such as sneakers. Combined, NTWRK said it hopes to create the definitive cultural commerce, content, and experiential platform. While NTWRKs acquisition of Complex unites two similar companies that could complement each other from a business standpoint, BuzzFeeds willingness to part ways with Complex reflects a retreat for the once high-flying digital publisher that sought to redefine the internet. Digital publishers have struggled in recent years as they navigate brutal industry headwinds, a soft advertising market, plummeting social media referral traffic, and the looming threat of artificial intelligence. BuzzFeed has been something of an avatar for such struggles among digital publishers. After launching an initial public offering in 2021, the companys share price has fallen a staggering 98%, trading Wednesday at a perilously low 21 cents. The collapse of BuzzFeeds digital empire has veered sharply into public view in recent years as the company has undergone several rounds of cost-cutting and layoffs. In April, BuzzFeed shut down BuzzFeed News, its award-winning news division that once boasted hundreds of employees and bureaus around the world. The outlet was not shy about its aim to upend legacy news organizations, such as The New York Times and CNN, which had been slow to transition to the digital age. Recent reports indicate the cost-cutting at BuzzFeed is not over. Reuters reported last week that The Independent is in talks to take control of the companys UK operations. BuzzFeed said that selling Complex will allow it to take meaningful steps toward strengthening its balance sheet and improving liquidity. The changes we announced today will enable an exciting next stage for our company, with increased focus on our iconic brands BuzzFeed, HuffPost, First We Feast and Hot Ones, and Tasty; a more efficient cost structure and operational model; and the ability to accelerate innovation powered by AI and interactive content formats, Peretti said. I look forward to sharing more in the coming months. Investors in the NTWRK-Complex deal include Universal Music Group, record executive Jimmy Iovine, Goldman Sachs, and Main Street Advisors. Universal Music Group will also serve as a strategic partner, working to identify ways in which the new platform can offer unprecedented opportunities for both music superfans and artists. The partnership, which signals Universal Music Group is looking for new platforms to collaborate with, is particularly notable given the companys recent public breakup with TikTok. Editors Note: This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Getty Images (2) Camila Mendes is opening up about working with ex-boyfriend Charles Melton on Riverdale and having the added challenge of playing each others love interests post-split. Obviously, right when [a breakup] happens, its hard and its emotional, Mendes, 29, shared during the Monday, February 19, episode of Dax Shepard and Monica Padmans Armchair Expert podcast. Its the worst. But its hard because the timing of the show. Anytime we started to hook up off set and knew that something was brewing, our characters would start dating. But they didnt know. No one knew. The writers would just naturally make it happen. Mendes and Melton, 33, met during season 2 of Riverdale. Melton was cast as the second version of Reggie Mantle after Ross Butler was unable to return due to other filming obligations. Mendes character, Veronica, eventually found herself falling for new Reggie in between her relationships with Archie (KJ Apa), and the pair dated on and off during seasons 3 through 6. Mendes recalled her real-life on-again, off-again relationship with Melton making things more difficult, as their characters would often still be dating even though they had called it quits off screen. Mendes noted that the CW series, known for its racy moments, would sometimes call for steamy makeout sessions between Reggie and Veronica right after Mendes and Melton had split. Riverdale' Cast's Dating History Through the Years We dated for a year and then broke up for about a year and then got back together for about a year, she explained, crediting the coronavirus pandemic as a catalyst for why they gave things another shot. After the show took a long hiatus between seasons 5 and 6, Mendes said that she and Melton both found new love with other partners but were ultimately drawn back together when they returned to Vancouver, Canada, for filming. When we came back we were both in other relationships, she continued. But then, naturally, the two of us got out of our own relationships not knowing the other did. And were in lockdown [because of COVID-19], we cant leave Vancouver. And its, like, maybe second times a charm. Maybe this time it will be different. Justine Yeung/The CW The pair mutually called it quits for good ahead of Riverdales final season and were able to put their emotions aside and enjoy their final year on the show. There was another break between [season 6 and season 7] and when we came back for the last season, there was a definite air of, zen, were past it, and we worked together a lot as well but not in a romantic capacity, she explained, adding that their characters had also split on screen. It went super smoothly last season. I think the whole last season felt different. Mendes said that the cast as a whole came together for season 7, knowing it was their last year on set. Its like, this is the last time were all going to be together in this room, she said. Who knows when something like this will happen again. Despite the ups and downs of dating a costar, Mendes found love again when Rudy Mancuso cast her in Prime Videos Musica. The twosome fell for each other while filming the movie in which Mancuso serves as director, writer and star and quietly confirmed their romance in November 2022 after production wrapped. Charles Meltons Dating History: From Camila Mendes to Chase Sui Wonders The couple have since shared tidbits of their romance via social media, with Mendes sharing a sweet tribute for Mancuso on Valentines Day earlier this month. (Mancuso was previously linked to Maia Mitchell from 2016 to 2022.) My valentine as soon as he wrapped musica, he flew all the way to the UK to support me while filming upgraded. edited all of musica remotely from our little hotel room in leeds, Mendes wrote via Instagram. He visited me on set almost every day just to give me a kiss and watch me do my thing. i love you @rudymancuso thanks for showing up in the most meaningful ways. lucky to be your valentine . svetikd / iStock.com Investing in 2024 has already been an adventure, and thats likely to continue. The market is at an all-time high and shows no signs of slowing down. Wheres the best place to put your money to take advantage? One investment to look at is emerging markets ETFs. Check Out: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000 What Are Emerging Markets? Emerging markets are those countries that are in the process of moving from developing economies into developed economies. There is typically a lot of room for growth in these economies, but there can also be considerable volatility. There is some debate about which countries are considered emerging markets, and the group can change. The MSCI Emerging Markets index includes two dozen countries, including China, India and Taiwan, among others. The Best Emerging Markets ETFs Emerging markets ETFs can include investments from some or all of the emerging market countries, or they may include investments from only one country. Here are some emerging markets ETFs to consider for 2024: SPDR S&P Emerging Markets Dividend ETF (EDIV) Franklin FTSE India ETF (FLIN) Global X MSCI Argentina ETF (ARGT) Franklin FTSE Taiwan ETF (FLTW) iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG) SPDR Portfolio Emerging Markets ETF (SPEM) Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) 1. SPDR S&P Emerging Markets Dividend ETF (EDIV) SPDR S&P Emerging Markets Dividend ETF tracks the index of 100 high-yielding emerging market common stocks. These are dividend-paying, or value, stocks. Top holdings include Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd., Hero MotoCorp Ltd., NTPC Ltd. and Malayan Banking Berhad. SPDR S&P Emerging Markets Dividend ETF has returned 34.28% in the last 12 months, compared to the benchmark for the category of 0.35%. 2. Franklin FTSE India ETF (FLIN) Franklin FTSE India ETF tracks the FTSE India Capped Index, which is based on the FTSE India Index and measures the performance of large- and mid-cap stocks in India. FLIN has returned 30.58% in the past 12 months, slightly better than the category benchmark of 28.35%. FLIN is less dependent on a single company than some emerging markets ETFs, as it invests less than 8% in any single stock. Its top holdings include Reliance Industries Ltd. (7.98%), HDFC Bank Ltd. (5.74%), Infosys Ltd. (4.88%), Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. (3.27%) and Bharti Airtel Ltd. (12.27%). It has significant investments in the financial services (21.42%), technology (13.31%) and energy (12.45%) sectors. 3. Global X MSCI Argentina ETF (ARGT) Global X MSCI Argentina ETF is a large-cap growth fund, based on the MSCI All Argentina 25/50 index. It holds investments in Argentinian companies in the consumer cyclical (32.73%), financial services (15.37%), basic materials (11.87%) and energy (11.38%) sectors, among others. Its largest holding is MercadoLibre Inc., which makes up 22.95% of the fund, followed by YPF Sociedad Anonima at 7.19% and Grupo Financiero Galicia S.A. at 7.11%. ARGT has returned 27.73% in the past 12 months. 4. Franklin FTSE Taiwan ETF (FLTW) Taiwan is one of the bright lights in Asia at the moment, and the Franklin FTSE Taiwan ETF has returned 17.35%, vs. a China region category benchmark of -29.50%. This fund tracks the FTSE Taiwan Capped Index. The largest holding in FLTW is Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. at 21.72%, followed by MediaTek Inc. (5.29%), Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (4.50%) and Quanta Computer Inc. (2.49%). The technology sector dominates this fund at 63.42% of holdings, followed by financial services (17.46%) and basic materials (5.63%). Other sectors represent less than 5% of holdings each. 5. iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG) IShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has returned 5.01% in the past 12 months. This fund tracks the MSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market Index. It includes investments in technology (21.65%), financial services (20.54%), consumer cyclical (12.11%) and other sectors. Top holdings include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Tencent Holdings Ltd., Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Reliance Industries Ltd. 6. SPDR Portfolio Emerging Markets ETF (SPEM) SPDR Portfolio Emerging Markets ETF is very broad, as it tracks a float-adjusted market cap weighted index of the total investable universe of publicly traded companies in emerging markets. SPEM has returned 4.79% in the past 12 months, compared to 0.35% returned by the diversified emerging markets category. SPEMs top holdings include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Tencent Holdings Ltd., Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Reliance Industries Ltd. and HDFC Bank Ltd. The top sectors in this fund include financial services (22.77%), technology (18.09%) and consumer cyclical (11.41%). Other sectors make up less than 10% of investments each. 7. Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF samples the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index. This means that the fund approximates the index by holding a broadly diversified collection of securities. Over the past year, VWO has returned 3.76%, compared to the category benchmark of 0.35%. The funds top holdings include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (5.85%), Tencent Holdings Ltd. (2.91%), Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (2.05%), Reliance Industries Ltd. (1.55%) and HDFC Bank Ltd. (1.11%). The fund has 21.90% invested in financial services, 18.18% in technology and 11.83% in the consumer cyclical sector. What Are ETFs? Exchange-traded funds are baskets of securities, like mutual funds, meaning that they include the securities of many different companies. Investors buy a share in the fund, effectively buying proportional shares in each of the underlying companies. Some ETFs are professionally managed by investment advisors, who buy and sell positions within the fund according to how they think those companies will perform. Other ETFs are passively managed, which means they track to an index of stocks. These funds will perform roughly the same way the index does and often have lower fees. ETFs trade like stocks, which means that the price is determined by how much someone will pay for it, and they are priced throughout the trading day. Mutual funds, on the other hand, are priced at the end of the day. How To Invest In Emerging Markets ETFs Exchange-traded funds are traded on exchanges like stocks. To buy and sell them, youll need a brokerage account where you can purchase ETFs. Since these ETFs are traded on U.S. stock exchanges, theyre available on most brokerage platforms. Identify those you are interested in and compare their asset mixes to your other investments. As is the case with any investment, past performance is not indicative of future results, and this is particularly true with emerging markets investments. When investing in emerging markets, whether youre buying ETFs or American depositary receipts (ADRs, or certificates that represent shares in a foreign company that are traded on U.S. stock exchanges), its important to pay attention to what is happening in the countries where youre invested. This means, in addition to watching the movement of the fund itself, its wise to pay attention to what is going on in the countries youre invested in from a geopolitical standpoint. This is particularly true if youre buying a single-country ETF or one in which the positions are concentrated in a single region, such as Asia. FAQ What is the best value emerging markets ETF? SPDR S&P Emerging Markets Dividend ETF (EDIV) is a solid performer in the world of emerging markets value ETFs. In the past year, investors in this ETF have earned a 34.28% return. Does Vanguard have an emerging markets ETF? Yes. The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) invests in emerging markets, including China, Brazil, Taiwan and South Africa. It's an index fund that tracks the performance of the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index. Which is better: VXUS or VWO? The Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) and the Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO) track different indices and have different objectives, so which one is better for you will depend on your objectives and the other investments in your portfolio. VXUS invests in the stock of companies outside the United States, in developed and developing countries, while VWO invests in emerging markets only. Data is accurate as of Feb. 19, 2024, and is subject to change. Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article. This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Best Emerging Markets ETFs for 2024 Angela Kotsell / Getty Images/iStockphoto If someone were to ask you what the largest dollar bill in the U.S. was what would you say? Many might answer that the largest bill is the $100. However, while that is the largest bill currently being printed in the U.S., the U.S. treasury has printed a variety of larger denominations at different times in the past. Its good to know what to look for, because finding one can be like striking gold. Some of these bills, such as the rare $10,000 bill, can sell at auction for much more than their nominal value. Read: Pocket an Extra $400 a Month With This Simple Hack Is There a $10,000 Dollar Bill in the United States? The U.S. Treasury printed $10,000 bills multiple times during the 20th century. The $10,000 bill featured the portrait of Salmon P. Chase, the Treasury Secretary to Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Chase had a large role in the introduction of modern banknotes and was involved in the design of the first $1 bill. These $10,000 bills were used for interbank transactions and large-scale transfers. The last printing of the $10,000 dollar bill was in 1945, and they were officially discontinued by the U.S. Treasury in 1969 due to lack of use. Despite their discontinuation, $10,000 bills are still considered legal tender in the United States. This means that if you ever found a genuine $10,000 bill you could go to your bank and deposit it into your account. However, if you do ever find one, hold on to it it could be worth much more than its face value. $10,000 bills are extremely rare and have thus become valuable collectors items. For example, no more than 336 of the 1928 and 1934 series $10,000 Federal Reserve notes are known to have survived. Prices for notes in poor condition can start at $30,000 [6]. Recently one 1934 $10,000 note was sold at auction for $480,000. What Determines The Price of a Rare Dollar Bill? The number of bills in circulation and the bills condition both affect its value. Bills in pristine condition (uncirculated or with minimal handling) fetch higher prices. The grading system, ranging from 1 (poor) to 70 (perfect), assesses the bills condition based on factors like folds, creases, tears and printing quality. The $10,000 bill from 1934 which recently sold for $480,000 at auction, had been graded Uncirculated 64 with Exceptional Paper Quality. How Do You Know if A $10,000 Bill Is Authentic? Authenticating a $10,000 bill requires careful examination because older banknotes like the $10,000 bill do not have modern security features. Each series of older banknotes has unique design elements that can help in authentication. For example, $10,000 notes from 1918 feature a blue seal, while later printings have a green seal. For certain series of $10,000 bills, specific serial numbers are known to be held in museums and are not in circulation. For example, if you have a $10,000 bill from 1918 with serial numbers like B1A, B420A, D1A, L204, or L1957A, its a counterfeit, as these are known to be held in museums. Additionally, bills like the $10,000 bill from 1878 are fakes, as all authentic examples of this series have been redeemed. If you are unsure about the authenticity of a bill, the best course of action is to consult a professional. You may be able to take the bill to a Treasury building or financial institution for an expert evaluation. Currency dealers and auction houses that specialize in rare and valuable currency may also provide authentication services. Given the rarity and value of the $10,000 bill, it is highly advisable to seek professional assistance in authenticating it. FAQ Is there a $1 million dollar note? No, the U.S. Treasury has never issued a $1 million dollar note. The highest denomination ever printed was the $100,000 gold certificate, which was used to transfer funds between Federal Reserve banks. Any $1 million dollar bills you may see are likely novelty items or props, not legal tender. How rare is a $2 dollar bill? Unlike the $10,000 bill, $2 bills are still being actively printed by the U.S. Treasury. According to the Treasury, there were 1.2 billion $2 notes in circulation as of 2017. However, while a regular $2 bill isn't rare, some printings do sell for a premium. For example, some $2 bills printed before 1917 can sell for over $1,000. This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Much Would You Spend on a Rare $10,000 Bill? IDF officer inside the hospital One of Gaza's largest and last remaining hospitals is no longer functional days after the Israel Defense Forces besieged and subsequently raided it last week. A medical team from the World Health Organization was finally allowed to enter Nasser Hospital this week after the IDF previously barred the group from entering the facility to check on patients. Doctors who saw the inside of the hospital called it a "death zone." "We were shocked what we actually saw in Nasser Medical Complex," said Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO's representative in the occupied Palestinian territory. "There's waste everywhere. Electricity was, was not working. Not working. Parts of the hospital are damaged, and some severely damaged." The IDF said one of the goals of their operations in and around the hospital in recent days was to keep it functioning. In a video statement, IDF Spokesperson Daniel Hagari said, "A key objective as defined by our military mission is to ensure that Nasser Hospital continues its important function of treating Gazan patients. We communicated this in a number of conversations we had with the hospital staff over the last few days. We emphasized that there is no obligation for patients or staff to evacuate the hospital." SEE MORE: Chicago doctor describes heartbreaking scenes in Rafah, vows to return The IDF raided the hospital after it said it received intelligence that hostages kidnapped on Oct. 7 were previously held there. The military also claimed Hamas was operating from the hospital. The only evidence of this shared by the IDF so far are videos from after they raided the hospital showing medicine meant for hostages and two vehicles they say were connected with the Oct. 7 attacks. Nasser Hospital and the surrounding area were flooded with internally displaced people from northern Gaza as the war put more and more pressure on people to flee their homes or risk being killed. Satellite imagery from Planet Labs, a commercial satellite company, showed the hospital and surrounding schools fill up with temporary structures. As IDF operations moved south, many people left, but not everyone could especially patients in critical condition at the hospital. Eventually, the hospital came under siege, and doctors there started sharing videos on social media of IDF armored vehicles and bulldozers on the outskirts. Videos showed multiple attempts by the IDF to get people to evacuate, even apparently using a small quadcopter. Another attempt was made to get people to leave when an IDF prisoner was sent into the hospital complex to order an evacuation. At least 130 patients and 15 doctors and nurses remain in Nasser Hospital. It's not clear how or when they'll be evacuated, but the timing may become important as Israel considers expanding its operations in southern Gaza to the city of Rafah. Assembly Member Vince Fong, R-Bakersfield, won a legal challenge to run to replace Kevin McCarthy in Congress and has been endorsed by Donald Trump. Andri Tambunan/Special to the Chronicle 2023 Rep. Kevin McCarthys announcement that he would retire from Congress came after an embarrassing and unprecedented campaign that ultimately ousted him from the speakership. J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press 2023 Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux has been gaining support in the race to replace Rep. Kevin McCarthy. Tulare County Sheriffs Office 2023 When former Rep. Kevin McCarthy announced he would retire from Congress at the end of 2023, it came after an embarrassing and unprecedented campaign that ultimately ousted him from the speakership. Now, the race to replace McCarthy in Congress has become just as chaotic as his exit, with a court fight over who can appear on the ballot, surprising endorsements and Donald Trump weighing in on the same side as the former speaker. When the presumed front-runner to replace McCarthy in the deep red Central Valley district, conservative state Sen. Shannon Grove, said she wouldnt run for the House, it set off a messy chain of events. Less than 24 hours after McCarthy made his announcement, Assembly Member Vince Fong, R-Bakersfield, said he wouldnt run. But when Grove announced she also wouldnt, Fong quickly reversed course and said he would. But it wasnt a guarantee that he could. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fong had already filed to run for reelection to his Assembly seat, and Secretary of State Shirley Weber a Democrat who previously served alongside Fong in the Assembly said she therefore could not legally include him on the official list of candidates in the House race. But Sacramento Superior Court Judge Shelleyanne W.L. Chang ruled Fong could run for both offices at once. Weber said she would appeal the ruling; the 3rd District Court of Appeal has requested briefing documents from both parties by March 11, according to a court filing. There have been other surprises, too. Republicans had been expected to largely coalesce around McCarthys mentee and chosen candidate, Fong, but Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux has been gaining support, including an endorsement on Feb. 14 from Grove. Fong has somewhat of an upper hand over Boudreaux, having entered the race a few weeks earlier which could be critical for gaining support and fundraising in such a condensed timeline. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fong is ahead in polling, having received the support of 27% of likely voters surveyed to Boudreauxs 11%, according to an Inside California Politics/Emerson College Polling January survey. He also gained a key endorsement for any Republican running this cycle Trump. The two are unlikely allies; Trump refused to come to McCarthys aid when far-right Republicans started working to oust him, according to the Washington Post. There are 11 candidates running in this Jungle Primary (including a wonderful man who recently withdrew), but now is the time to unite around Vince Fong and elect a true Republican to this seat, Trump wrote Tuesday on his social media network Truth Social. Boudreaux has swept up the endorsements of many local city and county officials and of former U.S. Ambassador Ric Grenell, a Californian who served under Trump, and former Trump Deputy Director of National Intelligence Kash Patel. Boudreaux has outraised Fong thus far, with $152,000 cash on hand at the end of the year to Fongs $105,747. A significant portion of Fongs fundraising $44,300 has come from Republican members of Congress, including McCarthy ally Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina. McCarthy has also gotten involved in the race via a super PAC called the Central Valley Values PAC, according to new FEC filings. The group can raise unlimited amounts of money to spend in support of or in opposition to a political candidate. Central Valley Values has raised $500,000 half from McCarthy's own leadership PAC and half from another super PAC, Conservatives for American Excellence Inc. (which reportedly received $250,000 from a Bakersfield philanthropist, among other donors). Central Valley Values has spent about $439,000 in support of Fong and in opposition to Boudreaux and Democratic candidate Marissa Wood. Advertisement Article continues below this ad BEIJING (AP) Heavy snow has blanketed northern and central China, disrupting travel and forcing schools to cancel classes. One person was killed on Wednesday in a roof collapse at a supermarket in Hebei province, state broadcaster CCTV said. Flights and intercity trains on which many of Chinas commuters rely were delayed or canceled. Authorities in several provinces issued severe weather warnings. Tens of thousands of workers with brooms and shovels were deployed, assisted by snowplows in the hardest-hit regions. About 5 centimeters (2 inches) of snow fell overnight in the capital, Beijing, which hosted the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. The severe weather started in western China last weekend, with snowstorms and sandstorms closing roads and stranding drivers, many returning home at the end of a weeklong Lunar New Year holiday. In neighboring Mongolia, more than 650,000 livestock have been killed by extreme winter weather, China's Xinhua News Agency reported earlier this week, citing the Mongolian emergency management agency. Heavy snow and severe cold have struck across much of of northeast Asia this winter. Heavy snow disrupted trains and grounded more than 100 flights in the Tokyo area earlier this month, and snow and freezing rain trapped thousands of motorists in central China as they headed home ahead of Lunar New Year. Last month, tourists were evacuated from a ski resort in western China after avalanches trapped more than 1,000 people for a week. You'd never guess what it is. In a world where fast food chains are constantly releasing new innovations that seem to be a little outside their original lane, theres one brand that will always stand by its OG menu item. Because what does KFC know better than fried chicken? Sure, theres no better way to showcase the Colonels famous recipe than with a bucket of the iconic chicken, but were still always looking forward to the next new mouthwatering rendition. A year after KFC brought back its hilariously wacky Double Down sandwich, which featured two pieces of fried chicken in place of a bun with bacon, cheese, and mayo or spicy sauce, the chicken chain is up to its menu antics again. This time, Kentucky Fried Chicken is turning to a different kind of mashupone thats been a bestseller at its global chains since 2015. Adobe Stock/Allrecipes KFC Brings Chizza to the U.S. KFC On Feb. 26, KFC will introduce its fan-favorite Chizza to U.S. menus for the first time ever. Yep, you guessed it, its a fried chicken-pizza mashup. But, just like the Double Down, theres no bread. Instead, the fried chicken acts as the crust thats topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. KFCs Chizza debuted in the Philippines in 2015 and has since traveled around the world to join menus in Germany, India, Korea, Mexico, Spain, Taiwan, and Thailand. Now, the Chizza (pronounced cheet-za) has finally come stateside for a limited time. Fried chicken and pizza collaborated to create something even better the Chizza, said Nick Chavez, KFCs CMO. The fan-favorite mashup is finally available in the U.S. after making its way around the world try it while you can! The Chizza will be available nationwide beginning Feb. 26, but fans in New York City who are too excited to wait will be able to try the new offering early. On Feb. 23 and 24, KFCs restaurant at 242 East 14th Street will be transformed into the first-ever Chizzeria. The pop-up, which will open from 1-9 p.m. EST, will only serve the hot and fresh Chizza for fans to try for free before the official menu launch. But, once it hits menus on the 26th, the Chizza can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a combo meal with fries and a medium drink. Additionally, KFC is bringing back its Blackberry Lemonade to join the Chizza on its limited-time run. Is KFC about to become our favorite fast food pizza place? Only time will tell. Read the original article on All Recipes. When youre on vacation near the coast, or if youre lucky enough to live close to the sea, theres nothing better than finding a nice spot to relax at a local cove. However, there are stretches of sand that you should probably avoid for your own safety. So on that note, weve compiled a list detailing 20 of the most hazardous beaches on the planet. What you learn here could prompt a change in holiday plans. Fraser Island, Australia Located roughly 500km north of Brisbane off the coast of Queensland, Australia, Fraser Island holds the distinction of being the largest sand island on Earth. But its also earned an ominous nickname down the years thanks to the numerous perils visitors stumble across. Indeed, Escape.com.au dubbed it Danger Island, with the wildlife posing a real threat. undefined Adventure playground Yet even if the tourists don't fall foul of jellyfish and dingoes, they cant forget about the terrain either. As emergency worker Rod Macdonald told website Escape in August 2014, Its young people, its the young adventurous. Theyll run down sand dunes, fall, break bones, dislocate shoulders, sprains, strains. People treat Fraser Island like an adventure playground. Ive seen firsthand what can go wrong. undefined Reunion Island, Indian Ocean If youre a keen surfer, youve no doubt heard of Reunion Island. This picturesque location, which can be found in the Indian Ocean, boasts beautiful stretches of sand and enticing water conditions. However, as per British newspaper The Daily Telegraph, the holiday destination is referred to as the worlds most deadly island too. undefined Shark heaven This is due to a steep climb in the number of people being bitten by sharks in the last few years. Incredibly, from 2011 onwards, more than 20 incidents have been recorded on Reunion Island. And according to the MSN website, eight of those people went on to lose their lives. As a result of that, the site noted that theres been a significant drop in visitors. undefined Praia do Norte, Portugal When the summer months roll around, Nazare, Portugal, becomes one of the go-to destinations for locals and tourists alike. The area also features a stretch of sand called Praia do Norte, which attracts surfers from far and wide. For you see, massive waves are generated as the tide reaches the shore. undefined Some of the biggest waves on Earth Thanks to an underwater ravine near the beach, the walls of water can hit heights of more than 100 feet, according to the Planet Deadly website. With that in mind, you should probably avoid taking a dip in the ocean around Praia do Norte. Even an accomplished surfer might feel nervous about facing the conditions. undefined Girgaum Chowpatty Beach, India If youve ever visited Mumbai, India, theres a good chance that you caught sight of Girgaum Chowpatty Beach. However, for the sake of your health, a fleeting glimpse is probably all you need, preferably from a distance. As reported by the MSN website, its one of the planets most polluted beaches. undefined Still a popular site The site noted that Mumbais waste is released into the sea close to its coast. As a result of that, harmful germs are lurking in the beachs waves and on the shore itself. Surprisingly, though, visitors continue to flock to the area, especially in September. Each year, the Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations draw people to Girgaum Chowpatty. undefined Copacabana Beach, Brazil When visiting Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, youll be immediately drawn to one of its star attractions. Of course were referring to the Copacabana Beach, a stretch of sand that spans well over two miles. But while the areas usually jam-packed full of people, you must be cautious for a couple of reasons. undefined Tourist trap As reported by MSN, harmful germs can be found in the surrounding sea, which then get brought on to the beach itself. Furthermore, the website suggests that you run the risk of getting robbed on the Copacabana as well. And taking into account the advice on the U.K.s government website, it seems incidences like these are particularly rife when the sun goes down. undefined Bolsa Chica State Beach, California At first glance, Bolsa Chica State Beach might just seem like any other stretch of sand in California. But in December 2015 the Surfrider Foundation made a terrifying discovery. During that period, a worker spotted the body of a poisonous sea snake that sported a yellow stomach. It turned out to be a Pelamis platura. undefined Keep watch for this one That particular snake usually stays in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, according to the NBC Los Angeles website. However, following a heatwave, its believed that the reptile was attracted to the waters near Bolsa Chica State Beach. While this was only the third documented case of such a creature reaching Californias shores, sunbathers should still keep their eyes out. The Red Triangle, California If you love surfing, California is the perfect place to test out your skills. But itd be wise to avoid the area between Big Sur and Bodega Bay.This huge area, which extends for about 200 miles, is referred to as the Red Triangle. And as per MSN, a significant number of great white sharks call the area home. undefined Shark statistics Unfortunately, people havent heeded the warnings down the years, leading to some shocking statistics. According to Business Insider, more than 33 percent of Americas great white shark attacks happen off of those shores. To break things down even further, its also responsible for 11 percent of such attacks across the globe. undefined Hout Bay Beach, South Africa Located in South Africa, Hout Bay Beach is fairly dangerous at the best of times thanks to the sharks that roam its waters. But in 2014 a jogger named Janice Wagner encountered another terrifying creature in the area. Incredibly, she caught sight of a Cape cobra making its way through the tide. Just leave them alone! Cape cobras are massive and can reach nearly 5 feet in size. Yet the snake on Hout Bay Beach measured in at over 6 feet, according to the Mirror newspaper. Speaking to another publication called 567 CapeTalk, animal specialist Shaun Macleod said, The only time itd be dangerous is if you physically tamper with it, 98 percent of people who are bitten by snakes are bitten because of self-infliction. So be very careful! Skeleton Coast Beach, Namibia Of all the different beaches scattered across the planet, Skeleton Coast Beach is arguably unique. Located in Namibia, this patch of land houses the bones of countless sea creatures, including whales. If youre wondering why the shore is a makeshift graveyard, whaling vessels were previously active in the area, as per the BBC website. undefined Ocean graveyard With that in mind, old boat wrecks can be found across the beach as well. So given the various pieces of debris, visitors have to be mindful of their footing, as one wrong move could result in injury. Meanwhile, the misty conditions also earned Skeleton Coast Beach a number of chilling nicknames, including The Gates of Hell. undefined Sheerness Beach, England While it might not be the most picturesque beach in the world, the seaside area of Sheerness still has its own unique charms. Situated in Kent, the shore is covered with pebbles; it's where the River Thames, which winds its way through London, England's capital city, ends its journey to the sea. Shockingly, though, this community could be on the brink of a major disaster. undefined Potential explosion Back in 1944 the S.S. Richard Montgomery was transporting 1,500 tons-worth of munitions. Unfortunately, the U.S. vessel sank just outside Sheerness with the explosives still in place. Planet Deadly reported that a few of them were salvaged, yet most stayed on the ship. Should they go off, the website claimed it would be one of the largest non-nuclear explosions of all time. undefined Northern Territory Beaches, Australia While Australia is known to play host to several dangerous animals, the countrys Northern Territory beaches take the biscuit. For instance, Planet Deadly revealed that the Top End and Arnhem Land areas are both teeming with crocodiles. But it could be argued that the biggest threat is hiding below the waters surface. undefined Dangerous syndromes Indeed, the website reports that the Irukandji and box jellyfish can be found in the Northern Territory's coastal waters. The latter boasts poisonous tentacles that span over six feet, and its sting could potentially leave you at deaths door. The formers just as dangerous, while its toxins can spark something called Irukandji syndrome as well. This ailment leaves sufferers in a state of heightened anxiety for a few days. undefined Hanakapiai Beach, Hawaii In Hawaii, youd be hard-pressed to name a more beautiful spot than Hanakapiai Beach. Hidden away along the Kalalau Trail, this sandy stretch boasts a gorgeous view of the ocean, enticing tourists to take a dip. However, you need to avoid the water at all costs, as a simple soak could end in tragedy. undefined Underwater currents According to website MSN, the waters surrounding Hanakapiai Beach hide deadly undersea currents. From 1970 onwards more than 29 individuals have reportedly lost their lives beneath the waves. Yet according to a sign close to the shore, the number might actually be a lot higher than that, with the written figure standing at over 80. undefined Amazon River Beaches, Brazil Unsurprisingly, the Amazon River continues to attract visitors from far and wide, as people look to get a glimpse of the stunning surroundings. But if you ever find yourself on one of its beaches, you must not venture into the water. Beneath the surface, all manner of nightmarish creatures await. undefined Razor-sharp teeth Indeed, MSN noted that electric eels and anacondas both live in the Amazon River. In addition to that, piranhas are known to patrol the area as well, sporting razor-sharp teeth. Yet the candiru might be the worst of the bunch. As a parasite, this fish isnt afraid of getting too close to a person. In fact, its known to enter your body through whatever orifice it finds. undefined New Smyrna Beach, Florida When you go to Florida, youve got a huge number of beaches from which to choose. Just outside Orlando, youll find New Smyrna Beach, which attracts surfers from far and wide. But while this might appear to be the perfect spot to pull out your board, you should probably think twice. undefined Capital of shark attacks By 2013 MSN reported that just under 240 shark incidents had taken place at New Smyrna. Given that the attackers in question are normally bull or black-tip reef species, the vast majority of cases dont result in death. Yet people continue to be bitten when they venture into the water. According to the ISAF, for instance, this beach is actually the shark attack capital of the world. undefined Kilauea Beach, Hawaii The beaches in Hawaii are some of the most beautiful in the world, but Kilauea Beach is one you should probably avoid. Unlike a number of other seaside areas, its extremely close to a smoldering volcano. The craters been firing out lava for close to 40 years now, with the first eruption taking place in 1983. undefined Too hot to handle Due to the volcanos position, its lava can apparently spread across a radius of around six-and-a-half miles. The scorchingly hot substance then mixes with the water that washes ashore on Kilauea Beach. It eventually simmers down in the end, yet sunbathers need to steer clear of the bubbling tide. undefined Bikini Atoll, U.S. Marshall Islands At first glance, the Bikini Atoll is a beautiful spot that boasts picturesque conditions. However, the islands have a checkered past: over 20 nuclear weapons were detonated there from 1946 to 1958. Close to 40 years later, experts claimed that it was finally okay to go back, but The Daily Telegraph reported that locals opted to stay away. undefined High radiation warning Meanwhile, due to the lingering radiation, crops found on the Bikini Atoll must be swerved at all costs. And if that wasnt enough, schools of sharks have since made the surrounding waters their home down the years too, with fishermen avoiding the spot. Nowadays, however, keen aquatic explorers are known to scope the islands, watching out for fish and sunken ships, according to the The Daily Telegraph. undefined Gansbaai Beach, South Africa Located just outside Cape Town, South Africa, Gansbaai Beach is the last place you want to be if you harbor a fear of sharks. Indeed, MSN reports that its the nearest spot to Shark Alley. That area can be found in the middle of Geyser Rock and Dyer Island and as its name suggests, swathes of the formidable sea predators can generally be found there. undefined Close calls Specifically, great white sharks are known to mull around the area. The Daily Telegraph noted that theyre drawn to the thousands of fur seals that swim in the aquatic alley. In addition to that, the influx of human visitors has been credited as another reason for their presence. Indeed, according to the Daily Mirror newspaper, in one incident a shark came incredibly close to breaking through a diving cage in 2014. undefined Shenzhen Beach, China Depending on the time of year, beaches can get incredibly crowded. However, itd be difficult to name a busier shore than that of Shenzhen Beach in China. This area is a hotspot for tourists and locals alike, especially when the warmer weather comes in. But as a result of that, its become quite hazardous. undefined Just too crowded As per the British newspaper The Telegraph, plenty of people get hurt on Shenzhen Beach, yet kids face the biggest risk. The website reports that several youngsters have drowned there down the years, which ties into an eye-opening statistic. From the ages of one to 14, no other cause of death is higher in China. undefined Virginia Beach, Virginia Under normal circumstances, a fox sighting shouldnt pose too much of a threat to your safety. However, the same cant be said about the wild foxes that roam Virginia Beach. Thanks to those creatures, the Zoover World travel blog categorized the area as the ninth most dangerous shoreline on the planet in 2013. undefined Sneaky opportunists The Zoover World blog post read, With wild foxes around you arent able to relax completely. Always make sure you do not fall asleep on the beach. If that wasnt enough, it seems that the menacing foxes would zone in on other animals as well, particularly those that belonged to sunbathers. undefined Acapulco Beach, Mexico In the 1970s, youd be hard-pressed to name a more popular vacation spot than Acapulco Beach in Mexico. But in the time since then, the surrounding area has undergone a radical change. Shockingly, over 2,300 people were killed in cold blood across the year in 2017, according to Planet Deadly. undefined Not the safest place The website reported that Acapulco was the backdrop to a violent feud involving drug gangs. At the time, the U.S. State Department claimed that car theft, murder and kidnapping were rife in the city. And even though the beach itself is still a picturesque spot, Planet Deadly noted that 12 people were killed in the area each day in 2019. undefined Maho Beach, Sint Maarten In the Caribbean, there are a host of different beaches that allow you to relax and soak in the sun. However, you should probably give Maho Beach a miss in Sint Maarten. While it might seem okay at first glance, this tiny stretch of sand is actually very dangerous for a surprising reason. undefined Just steps off the runway Indeed, Maho Beach is situated right next to an airport, with planes coming dangerously close to onlookers. Regardless of the warnings, people continue to visit the beach to catch a glimpse of them. In the end, though, that led to the death of a lady from New Zealand in 2017. Time magazine reported that the wind from an engine blew her off her feet. Lord Cameron has arrived in Paraguay, becoming the first UK foreign secretary to visit the South American nation. While in Asuncion he will hold talks with president Santiago Pena and foreign minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano. The former prime minister is expected to discuss co-operation on trade, the environment, education and human rights issues with the Paraguayan leadership. It is the latest leg of the Foreign Secretarys tour, which began in the Falkland Islands and will continue on to Brazil and the United States. Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron walks around Port Stanley on the Falkland Islands (Stefan Rousseau/PA) On Tuesday morning, Lord Cameron began his day with a swim in the cold South Atlantic before seeing some of the Falkland Islands penguins. On a walk around Gypsy Cove, the Foreign Secretary saw a small group of Magellanic penguins in the dunes and a pod of dolphins swimming in the waters below the windswept footpath. He chatted to children involved in a local conservation group, who persuaded him to try a piece of edible grass growing along the coast. Lord Cameron tries eating some edible grass with local school children at Gypsy Cove (Stefan Rousseau/PA) It tastes like celery, the Foreign Secretary said before offering the stem to the youngsters to try they all declined. During his visit he also met members of a Zimbabwean demining team who had helped make the area safe by clearing munitions left over from the 1982 war. The Foreign Secretary also spoke to military personnel and their families based at Mount Pleasant airbase before departing for Paraguay. Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron meets locals on the Falkland Islands (Stefan Rousseau/PA) The former prime ministers visit to the Falkland Islands is the first by a foreign secretary since 1994 and the first by any Cabinet minister since 2016. Speaking in the Falklands capital Stanley on Monday night following a wreath-laying ceremony to honour those killed in the 1982 war, he played down suggestions from the Argentinian President Javier Milei that there could be a negotiation on the future of the UK overseas territory. Lord Cameron said: Let me be absolutely clear: as far as we are concerned, as long as the Falkland Islands want to be part of the UK family they are absolutely welcome to be part of that family and we will support them and back them and help protect and defend them absolutely, as far as Im concerned, for as long as they want. And I hope thats for a very, very long time, possibly forever. The Foreign Secretary took part in a wreath laying ceremony (Stefan Rousseau/PA) The shadow of the Falklands War hangs over UK-Argentine relations, but Lord Cameron and Mr Milei had a warm and cordial meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January, although on the issue of the islands, the Foreign Office said they would agree to disagree, and do so politely. Lord Cameron told reporters in Stanley: Now of course we want to have good relations with Buenos Aires, with the Argentine government. The new government, I think, have taken some positive steps and well have good relations with them, but it will never be at the expense of the wishes of the Falkland Islanders, who in our view absolutely come first in this manner. After his meetings in Paraguay the Foreign Secretary will attend a summit of G20 counterparts including Russias Sergei Lavrov in Brazil on Wednesday. Russias actions in Ukraine will also be the subject of a United Nations session in New York later in the week which Lord Cameron will attend. Psilocybin mushrooms stand ready for harvest in a humidified "fruiting chamber" in the basement of a private home on July 28, 2023 in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Psychedelic mushrooms are emerging again as a popular drug choice for some people including some who struggle with anxiety and depression. The burst in interest in psilocybin mushrooms coincides with the plants becoming decriminalized or legalized in some cities or states, with more legislation on the legal horizon in others (though not Ohio). Drug seizures in the past year show that even the Cincinnati area and Ohio appear to be experiencing a resurgence of use of the drug that hippies once embraced as a cure for existential anxiety and just plain wonder. It is also a drug that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration placed on a list of dangerous substances in 1970. Recently, the National Institute on Drug Abuse pointed to new research it funded that shows a dramatic rise in law enforcement seizures across the United States and particularly in the Midwest of psilocybin mushrooms. The Enquirer wanted to know, are they here? How prevalent are they? And what makes magic mushrooms a thing again? We asked experts in substance-use health, research and harm reduction. Heres who they are: Dr. Marc Fishman, medical director of Maryland Treatment Centers; researcher in the treatment of adolescent opioid dependence. Brian Pace, a psychedelics researcher who teaches psychedelic studies at Ohio State University. Joseph Palamar, author of the new study and associate professor of population health at New York University Langone Health. Josh Zak, a resident of Cincinnati's Walnut Hills neighborhood and harm reduction specialist. Psilocybin mushrooms that are ready for distribution are shown at Uptown Fungus lab in Springfield, Ore. What are psilocybin mushrooms and what do they do? They are called magic mushrooms, shrooms or just mushrooms. They are fungi that contain psilocybin, which turns into psilocin a naturally occurring psychedelic drug when ingested. They may bring on hallucinations, sometimes reported by those who use them as spiritual experiences. They can cause euphoria, an altered sense of time, and depersonalization among other symptoms. They act on seratonin receptors, and recent research shows they may be helpful to people with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, and maybe other mental health conditions. The science is in its early stages, researchers say. What do law enforcement seizures of mushrooms look like here? And what does that mean? Law enforcement is increasingly finding psilocybin mushrooms in the mix of drugs in the Cincinnati area, Ohio, Kentucky and across the nation. But the overall numbers of seizures are low. The Cincinnati area's influx of items containing psilocybin mushrooms went from 14 to 153 in the past six years, Hamilton County Crime Laboratory records show. We are seeing a large influx in hallucinogenic cases in general, with mushrooms being the most prominent, said Laura Kimble, chief drug analyst for the lab, which serves about 46 police agencies in Hamilton, Clermont, Butler, and Montgomery counties. Psilocybin mushroom seizures jumped statewide in Ohio, Kentucky and across the nation from 2017 to 2022, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse study, which compared the number of mushroom seizures made by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area law enforcement. Ohio's count went from 25 to 107 seizures during the period. Kentucky's, 8 to 48. The U.S. from 402 to 1,396. Author Palamar said the seizures are used as one indicator of increasing use of the drug. "I believe more people are using shrooms, but were lacking data that shows increasing trends in use, largely because most drug surveys used don't specifically ask about shroom use," Palamar said. National surveys either don't ask about psychedelics overall or dont ask about recent use. He did research in nightclubs and festivals in New York City that showed an upswing in magic mushrooms use, but he said this population is known for high rates of drug use, which may or may not translate to use among other groups. Still, it's apparent through social media and studies that more people are using them. Mushroom use in a 'hype cycle' says OSU psychedelics expert The use of plant-based hallucinogens in ceremonies is centuries old. Recreational use of mushrooms is nothing new, either. And research in its use for mental health and substance use was popular in the mid-20th century but stopped after it was deemed a Schedule I, illicit drug. So why is it popular again now? Fishman and Pace think it's because the information about new studies of psilocybin mushroom mental health treatment possibilities is widespread. And the more mainstream the idea becomes that hallucinogenic mushrooms are promising new treatments for depression and anxiety, the more likely people will feel comfortable trying it on their own. "When you decrease the perception of harm (and) you increase the access, people will use more," Fishman said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration made psilocybin mushrooms a breakthrough therapy in 2018. New research is indicating that it may help people with depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. Science also points to mushrooms reducing specific depression and anxiety for people who are facing a diagnosis of death, and promising indications it can help treat addiction. For the general public, though? Its faddish, Fishman said. Pace agrees: "Psychedelics are amidst a hype cycle right now and that, coupled with recent decriminalization efforts, are likely behind the increase reported by NIDA (the National Institute on Drug Abuse)." Restrictions on psilocybin mushroom use have dropped over the past few years, and Zak, the Cincinnati harm reduction specialist, said it's easy to access them, online and elsewhere. It can also be intriguing to do so, he said. "It almost resembles the gray market on weed," Zak said. "Not just in mushroom form. Theres a lot of packaging and marketing going on." That commodification of mushrooms brings in consumers, he said. A vendor bags psilocybin mushrooms in a pop-up cannabis market in Los Angeles. Are there risks to using magic mushrooms? Mushrooms are not addictive, but Pace said some people may become "obsessed" with using them. A small minority of people who've used them have reported "bad trips," experiencing mental confusion, anxiety, psychotic episodes or paranoia. The setting in which they are consumed is important, Zak said. Fishman cautions, "Buyer beware." He said that the science of mushroom use for mental health and more is "good science," but he added, regarding the general population, "we tend to get ahead of ourselves." "If it's in the medicine cabinet, it must be OK, seems to be the American thought process, Fishman said, pointing to prescription painkiller misuse as an example. "There is no magic bullet," Pace said. He warned that those who have a bad time while taking mushrooms can have a "very bad" time and urged education among anyone who uses them or is around someone who does. "It's why I teach psychedelic studies," Pace said, "both to combat stigma and misinformation as much as to temper the expectations of those subjected to hype about them." Harm reduction recommendations include having a safe, or comfortable space, having time and using only with people you trust, Zak said. He also said it's best to use smaller amounts because content and concentration can vary, even among two individual mushrooms in the same batch. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Magic psilocybin mushrooms are making a national comeback. Why? A New York man has been sentenced almost three years after he was accused of violently attacking an Asian American woman in Times Square. Brandon Elliot, 41, was sentenced Wednesday to 15 years in state prison. He had pleaded guilty to one count of assault in the first degree as a hate crime, and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. In 2021, Elliot attacked Vilma Kari, then 65 years old, when she was on her way to church. Elliot shouted expletives at Kari, telling her, You dont belong here, before toppling her and stomping on her head and body repeatedly. Elliots attorney, Jamie Niskanen-Singer, said in a statement shared with NBC News that his client had "expressed remorse" for what Kari had gone through. "Mr. Elliot has long suffered from serious and well-documented mental health diagnoses, which was a contributing factor but by no means a blanket excuse," Niskanen-Singer said in the statement. "He has accepted responsibility for his actions and sought to spare Ms. Kari of having to relive the ordeal at a trial." Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg Jr. said in a statement that he hoped the sentencing would send a message to the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Vilma Kari, right, with her daughter Elizabeth. (Courtesy Vilma Kari) Brandon Elliot assaulted a 65-year-old woman because of her Filipino descent, Bragg said. I hope the closure of this case will allow the victim to continue healing and moving forward, while also sending a strong message that we will seek full accountability for anyone who commits violence against their fellow New Yorkers because of their race or ethnicity. Elliot, who had been on lifetime parole for murdering his mother in 2002, approached the victim, whos Filipino American, on the sidewalk. In addition to yelling racial insults, Elliot kicked her in the torso and knocked her to the ground before kicking and stomping on her head and body, according to a news release from the Manhattan District Attorneys Office. At one point, a bystander attempted to intervene, according to the release, but Elliot threatened the man with a knife and fled the scene. Kari, who was taken to the hospital, was diagnosed with a fractured pelvis, forehead contusions and contusions across her body. Elliot was arrested two days later. Video that captured the attack quickly went viral, prompting outcry from the Asian American community against anti-Asian attacks. The attack left Kari in shock, she previously told NBC News in 2021 via email, but continued to call for greater attention to violence against people of Asian descent. I feel that there is now more awareness and consciousness that has developed after my attack, she wrote. But there needs to be more support and education about what the AAPI community is facing at this moment, especially since there are cases that have not been reported and classified as hate crimes. For more from NBC Asian America, sign up for our weekly newsletter. I've been blown away by the beauty of the Irish countryside. Alexis McSparren After growing up in the US, I made the spontaneous decision to move to Dublin, Ireland. I've experienced affordable healthcare, better work-life balance, and a greater sense of safety. Traveling to nearby cities is cheap and easy, but the cost of living in Ireland isn't super low. I first fell in love with the idea of moving abroad five years ago after spending a semester in England. I met incredible people, tried new things, and focused on what I wanted most out of life while temporarily letting go of everything stressing me out at home. But after I returned to the US, the stress came back, and I realized I'd do anything to make my dream of living abroad a reality. Picking up and moving to Ireland on a spur-of-the-moment decision two years ago has presented many challenges, but I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. Read on for some of the things that surprised me when I first got to Ireland. It took me a minute to train my ear to the sounds of the Irish language From the Irish names that no one outside of Ireland can ever seem to pronounce to the varied accents that I need live subtitles to understand, it's been a real personal journey getting where I am today with Irishisms. I thought a lot of the phrases in Ireland would be similar to what I heard in the UK. But the Irish have their own national language, and it tends to bleed into everyday conversational English. For instance, the national police force is called An Garda Siochana, which translates to "Guardians of the Peace," and officers are referred to as the Gardai. To better explain the complexities of Irish slang, here's an actual conversation that occurred in my group chat when I first moved: Person 1: "Are you coming out with us tonight or not?" Person 2: "Sure look, put me down, I'll pop along. And I better not get the vid of anyone. Scooops! Also shurrup, Person 1, ya bleedin' tick." They had me in the first sentence. After that, I was frantically and unsuccessfully searching through Irish pages on Urban Dictionary. But I knew I finally adapted to the language when I found the words "thanks a million" (or "thanks a mil") and "bye bye bye bye bye bye bye" after any phone call slipping off my tongue. Day trips and weekend getaways are abundant and encouraged here a scenic landscape by the sea in ireland The whole country is absolutely beautiful.Alexis McSparren Ireland is home to RyanAir, meaning we have cheap flights to nearly any European destination at our fingertips. This results in the urge to take a weekend abroad as often as possible. Ireland itself is also packed to the brim with stunning natural landscapes. Although the Republic of Ireland is pretty small it's a little smaller than the state of Indiana its 26 counties all vary greatly from each other, leaving many wonders to explore. Trek the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher in County Clare; explore the Neolithic monument, Newgrange, in County Meath; and spend a week (or a lifetime) in my favorite part of the country, County Kerry, while driving through the spectacular Dingle Peninsula. The slower pace of life in Ireland means nothing ever runs on time The Irish pride themselves on being "great craic" (fun), but, unfortunately, this way of life often leads to losing track of time. If you find yourself perpetually late to everything, you'll feel right at home in Ireland. If not, prepare to spend long stretches of time staring at your phone while waiting for your mates. Although it's been an adjustment, unpredictability is what makes Ireland feel like things are still run by people, not by algorithms and advancement. It's precisely what makes a tremendous difference in the overall work-life balance here compared to the US, where my life constantly revolved around work schedules, promotions, and little time off. Alcohol is a big part of the culture exterior shot of the dwelling house pub in ireland There are plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs in every town.Alexis McSparren In Ireland, pubs are more than just places to have a pint of Guinness. They're more like a community center where people go to meet and catch up with old friends, have a hearty meal, sing along to live traditional music, and catch an Irish jig. At a pub, friends are also usually more likely to rotate buying rounds for each other instead of opening up individual tabs. Sharing is caring here in Ireland. I've never considered myself much of a drinker. In the US, I would go out maybe once or twice a month. But my alcohol consumption has definitely increased since living in Ireland because socializing here often happens exclusively at the pub. Although Dublin is the capital city, it has more of a small-town feel Despite being the capital city of Ireland and housing a lot of the country's population, Dublin has a small-town atmosphere. I'll never forget the first day I moved into my house. I was waiting outside in the rain with my luggage for my landlady, and my next-door neighbors ushered me in and carried my luggage into their house. After offering me several cups of tea (which I naively declined), we chatted in their sitting room until my landlady arrived. With the charming small-town feel also comes the harsh reality that shops don't stay open as late. Most businesses close at 6 p.m., with some, like post offices, often closing for lunch as well. On Sundays, most businesses close even earlier if they're open at all. Coming from the US, where one-stop supermarkets stay open 24 hours, it was a huge adjustment. But now I find the giant stores and selections a bit overwhelming during visits home. I finally understand that tea is the elixir of life a formal afternoon tea set up in ireland Everyone will offer you a cup of tea, or a cuppa, here.Alexis McSparren I'll never forget my first few weeks in Ireland when I was constantly offered tea by my coworkers and housemates. After politely declining and declaring that I'm not much of a tea drinker, they'd exclaim, "But then what do you drink?" I soon realized that they were right about how incredible tea is. Once you accept your cuppa in Ireland, there's an even more important question: "Barry's or Lyons?" Everyone has their opinions about which of the two major brands is best. I've never felt safer than I do living in Dublin Crime doesn't typically permeate the nightly news here. Ireland has pretty strict gun laws, so the rates of gun violence, and violent crime in general, are low. My Irish friends are always shocked when I explain past crime or violence I've been through in the US because it's something they've only experienced through Hollywood films. If you visit or move here, get ready to talk about the weather all the time reflection of the umbrella street art in a puddle on the streets of dublin ireland It really does rain a lot in Ireland.Alexis McSparren Small talk with strangers is the norm in Ireland, and crowd-favorite topics include the traffic, how one is keeping, how one's brother is keeping, and, the favorite of all favorites, the weather. The country is well-known for being windy, dreary, and rainy almost year-round. Although the summers are much milder, it's commonly overcast, and rain can start pouring out of a perfectly blue sky at any time. The unpredictable weather prompted the age-old Irish saying, "You can see every season in a day." Although housing and other costs of living are pricier, affordable healthcare is a plus Dublin is one of the most expensive cities in Europe, with most one-bedroom apartments going for close to $2,000 a month. There's also a lack of housing throughout the country that's forced rent prices to skyrocket. Because of the high cost of living and low wages, it's the cultural norm for many young people to live with their families until their 30s. Although housing is cheaper if you move outside of Dublin, public transportation throughout the country is also one of the most expensive in Europe. But I'm grateful for affordable healthcare. Since moving, I've found myself prioritizing my health in ways I never could've afforded to in the US. I used to go years without scheduling appointments, but now I'm able to easily and cheaply see a doctor, dentist, therapist, massage therapist, or chiropractor even without health insurance. There are so many unique traditions to discover in Ireland a fairy tree in ireland There are a lot of superstitions baked into the culture.Alexis McSparren Leprechauns may not exist, but Irish superstitions do. Whatever you do, don't cut down a lone tree standing in the middle of a field especially if there are ribbons tied to the branches or a formation of rocks around the base. In Celtic folklore, those are fairy trees, which serve as the gateway between our world and that of the wee fellas. Alas, these Irish creatures are closer to the spiteful pixies in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" than Tinker Bell. Damaging the tree is said to result in a lifetime of bad luck. The Irish take this cultural tradition very seriously, even today. An entire motorway was once built around an existing fairy tree in County Clare. Ireland also celebrates several unique rituals. For example, for more than 400 years in Killorglin, County Kerry, locals have held the Puck Fair where a wild goat is captured in the mountains, brought back to the town square, and crowned King Puck by a local schoolgirl (chosen as Queen Puck). King Puck's subjects celebrate this coronation during a festival that spans three days before he's released back into the mountains. I was glad I was living in Ireland during the pandemic lockdown alexis sitting on a beach in ireland I was able to escape to the beach and explore different parts of the country during the pandemic.Alexis McSparren Ireland takes public health very seriously, so the country remained under strict lockdown restrictions for nearly two whole years of the coronavirus pandemic. One of these restrictions meant that, for a period of time, I couldn't travel 2 kilometers, then 5 kilometers, then 20 kilometers from my home. But Dublin is sandwiched right between the sea and the mountains, meaning I was never short on beautiful scenery to explore. And because Ireland is a country steeped in ancient history, there's something to discover around every corner. This story was originally published in February 2022 and most recently updated on February 21, 2024. Read the original article on Business Insider President Joe Biden (left) with his son, Hunter, photographed in 2010 An ex-FBI informant accused of lying about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter has high-level ties with Russian intelligence, US prosecutors say. The allegations against Alexander Smirnov, 43, were outlined in new Department of Justice filings in the case on Tuesday. Mr Smirnov is accused of lying when he claimed bribes were paid to the Bidens via a Ukrainian energy firm, Burisma. He was charged last week with giving false statements to the FBI. Mr Smirnov's claims were part of an ongoing effort by Republicans to impeach President Biden. He was arrested in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Thursday after returning from an overseas flight, the justice department said. Prosecutors had asked for Mr Smirnov, a dual US-Israeli citizen, to be held without bail, arguing that he has no ties to Las Vegas, but does have contacts with Russian intelligence agencies. But on Tuesday US Magistrate judge Daniel Albregts allowed the defendant to be released from custody and be monitored by GPS until his trial. He must remain in Nevada's Clarke County and is banned from applying for a new passport. Mr Smirnov - who had been held at a jail in Pahrump, about an hour from Las Vegas, since his arrest - did not speak to journalists as he left court. The justice department says that he disclosed his intelligence contacts to his FBI handler, saying he could use those connections - which prosecutors described as " extensive and extremely recent" - to leave the US. In court documents filed Tuesday, prosecutors also alleged that Mr Smirnov told authorities he had only $1,500 in cash and $5,000 in a bank account, when in reality he had access to about $6m in "liquid funds". "The fact that Smirnov misrepresented his assets alone should cause Smirnov to be detained because it shows that, at the first opportunity, he did not provide true and complete information to pretrial services," the filing says. In December 2023, the legal filing says, Mr Smirnov attended an overseas meeting with "a high-ranking member of a specific Russian foreign intelligence service". Mr Smirnov told his FBI handler that he learned Russian intelligence had intercepted "several" phone calls made at a certain hotel by prominent US people, according to the justice department. Neither the hotel nor its location is specified. Mr Smirnov allegedly said the eavesdropped recordings could be used as "kompromat" (compromising material) during the 2024 election campaign. He was charged by Special Counsel David Weiss - who has overseen the investigation of Hunter Biden - with providing "false derogatory information" to the FBI about the president and his son in June 2020. Prosecutors allege that Mr Smirnov was motivated by his dislike of the president. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 25 years in prison. In a separate court filing on Tuesday, Hunter Biden's attorneys sought to have federal tax charges dismissed, arguing that he was the victim of politically motivated "selective and vindictive prosecution". Additionally, the filings argue that the prosecutors' assertions that the younger Mr Biden lived a "lavish" and "extravagant" lifestyle were "irrelevant and prejudicial" to the case. By Doina Chiacu WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday thrashed Republican rival Donald Trump's response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, asking, "Why does Trump always blame America?" After Navalny's death was reported on Friday, Biden directly blamed Russian leader Vladimir Putin, as did Trump's main rival for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Nikki Haley. Trump did not mention Navalny until a Monday post on his Truth Social platform that did not cast blame or express remorse, but alluded to his own legal problems as persecution and called the United States a nation in decline. "The former president, Trump, and other Republicans, refuse to hold Putin accountable for his death," Biden said. "Instead, Trump said Navalny's death made him realize how bad America was. "He said and I quote, 'We are a nation in decline, a failing nation.' Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" Biden said earlier Tuesday the United States will announce a major package of sanctions against Russia on Friday over the death of Navalny. Trump, the Republican frontrunner, is likely to face Democrat Biden in a rematch in November's presidential election. In an interview Tuesday with Fox News, Trump praised Navalny as "very brave" for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany, where he underwent treatment for what Western laboratory tests showed evidence of a Russian nerve agent. However, the former U.S. president also second-guessed that decision. "He probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country, as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that (death) could happen and it did happen," Trump said. During his 2017-2021 tenure in the White House, Trump drew criticism for his praise of Putin. Last week, he suggested the United States might not protect NATO allies who do not spend enough on defense from a potential Russian invasion. Biden on Tuesday called the NATO comments dangerous. "It does nothing but encourage bad behavior," Biden said. Biden folded the criticism into a video posted in Twitter in which he urged Republicans who control the House of Representatives to pass emergency security assistance for Ukraine in its war against Russia. "We have to stand up to Putin," Biden said. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Christopher Cushing) Mayor London Breed promotes Proposition F during a news conference at the Winton Hotel in San Francisco on Jan. 18. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Proposition F, Mayor London Breeds proposal to require welfare recipients in San Francisco to undergo drug testing and treatment in order to keep their benefits, will remain on the March 5 ballot despite a unions arguments that the city was required to negotiate over the measures impact on overstressed workers. But if the measure passes, the courts will be asked to block it and may well do so until city officials hold good-faith meetings with the union. That was what happened in San Diego in 2018, after the citys mayor promoted a privately sponsored ballot measure cutting employees pension benefits. A union argued, and the state Supreme Court unanimously agreed, that state law required the city to meet and confer with the union before reducing anyones benefits. There are differences between the two cases. The San Diego measure directly affected union members by reducing their pensions, while Prop. Fs direct impact would be on the low-income adults under 65 who receive cash benefits from the city. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But Service Employees International Union Local 1021 says its members who work for the city would be affected in many ways: Already understaffed and regularly working overtime, they would have to work longer hours, get additional training, undergo increased stress and even face threats from people whose benefits are denied because they are unable to stop using drugs. Who will administer abuse checks? The nurses who will have to do more work to make sure of compliance? said Jennifer Esteen, a San Francisco public health nurse for 14 years and a chapter president for nurses in the union. What happens when somebody tests positive? Will they be put out immediately? ... Theres a cascade of impacts, and our working conditions are the trigger. If we need to suddenly provide a new service and dont have the time, whos going to provide it? Because the measure would have a reasonably foreseeable significant and adverse effect on working conditions, San Francisco, under a 1968 state law, had a duty to provide prior notice and opportunity to bargain over its decision to place Proposition F on the ballot, the union contended in a letter Tuesday to City Attorney David Chius office. In response, Jen Kwart, a spokesperson for Chiu, said only that the office had received the letter and as always, we will respond to our labor partners on any concerns they have. In the San Diego case, the city said it had no duty to meet with the union on the proposed pension cuts because they were in an initiative circulated by private citizens. But the court said the citys mayor, Jerry Sanders, was clearly the sponsor of the initiative and couldnt use a private sponsor as a straw man to avoid responsibility. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Meyers-Milias-Brown Act, a 1968 law that authorized collective bargaining by public employees in California, aims to foster full communication between public employers and employees and improve employer-employee relations, and must be interpreted to achieve that goal, the court said. There is no such dispute about San Franciscos responsibility for Prop. F, which was placed on the ballot by Breed after its approval by city supervisors. Voting has begun on Prop. F, and it cant be removed from the March 5 ballot. That was also the situation in San Diego by the time the case reached the state Supreme Court. After voters approved the ballot measure, a state appeals court ordered the city to meet with the union and, during those negotiations, to reimburse union members for their losses in pension benefits, plus interest. In the San Francisco case, said Kerianne Steele, a lawyer for the union, if Prop. F passes, the states Public Employment Relations Board can prohibit the city from enforcing the measure until it completes good-faith meet and confer sessions with Local 1021. Because the potential impact on San Francisco employees isnt as direct as the pension reductions for San Diego city workers, the outcome of a future court case isnt completely clear, said Catherine Fisk, a labor law professor at UC Berkeley. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But she said that under federal labor law, a government employer would be required to meet with a union about the effects of a policy change, even if it had no duty to negotiate over the new policy before adopting it. Because California law is similar to federal labor law, Fisk said, I would imagine that the public entities would have a duty to bargain about effects of this new drug-testing mandate even if they dont have a duty (to negotiate) about whether to adopt the mandate. The tug-of-war between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the nonpartisan Legislative Analysts Office over the states projected budget deficit took a new turn Tuesday, when the LAO announced a revised shortfall of $73 billion $15 billion more than previously forecast, and significantly more than the $38 billion gap that Newsom has estimated. The LAO reported that recent revenue collection data reflect even further weakness for the states financial outcome. All else equal, this means the budget problem is likely to be higher when the governor gives his revised projection of the states finances in May, the LAO said in a Tuesday update. The LAO said that the actual budget shortfall will depend on a variety of factors, such as mandatory Proposition 98 spending on schools and community colleges. Roughly, a $24 billion erosion in revenues corresponds to a $15 billion increase in the budget problem. This would expand the $58 billion estimated deficit to $73 billion under our updated revenue forecast, the LAO report read. That means lawmakers are going to have to find new budget solutions to ensure a balanced budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The LAO said solutions could include increasing revenue, reducing either or both one-time and ongoing spending, and exploring the possibility of cost shifts or dipping into reserves. The LAO listed several areas of one-time and temporary spending where cuts can be made, totaling nearly $16 billion. Categories of cuts include business and labor, criminal justice, education, health and human services, housing and homelessness, resources and environment and transportation. H.D. Palmer, a spokesman for Newsoms Department of Finance, emphasized the state is still forecast to see more than $51 billion in income and corporate tax receipts. No one can say today with certainty how those numbers may change the budget estimate of a $38 billion shortfall, Palmer said in a statement. A responsible step would be for the Legislature to act now on the early action budget measures needed for $8 billion in solutions to help close this gap. Newsom during his January budget presentation suggested this move, which would mean opening up last years budget to make changes to the existing funding plan. Department of Finance director Joe Stephenshaw said in January one early action item would involve increasing the managed care organization tax by $1.5 billion to help fund a Medi-Cal expansion for undocumented immigrants. Health insurers pay the MCO tax, and the federal government must approve any increases. Senate Republicans on Tuesday afternoon released a statement expressing concern about how Newsom and the Democratic-controlled Legislature are handling the budget. Democratic legislators and the governors continued fiscal irresponsibility is troubling, as evidenced by their unchecked spending and the alarming growth of the states budget problem, said Sen. Roger Niello, R-Fair Oaks, in a statement. Niello vice-chairs the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee. He called for a course correction and a renewed commitment to a responsible budget. Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, R-Santee, blasted Newsom for trying to fool the public that the deficit is $38 billion. How are we supposed to balance the budget when our governor cant even admit the true size of the deficit his administration racked up? Jones said in a statement. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, D-Hollister, said during a Tuesday press conference the budget gap is his biggest concern. The Assembly Democratic Caucus has been meeting to develop strategies to deal with the spending shortfall, and Rivas emphasized budget negotiations are still in their early stages. Cynthia Moreno, Rivass press secretary, later said conversations about early legislative budget action are already underway. The governors budget has been more optimistic than the LAO, Rivas said. And I sure hope that the governor is right. We would all like to be wrong when it comes to the deficit. And thats why I firmly believe that its always better to plan for the worst. BEIJING (Reuters) -China hopes France will continue a constructive role in developing healthy and stable Sino-European relations by enhancing mutual trust and promoting integration of interests, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. The minister, in meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday, said China hopes to work together as a stabilising force in the world, according to a foreign ministry statement on Wednesday. "We are willing to work with France to uphold our original aspirations, maintain focus, deepen cooperation," Wang said. Wang also said China hopes France will create a fair and just business environment for Chinese companies there, and provide "positive, stable and long-term expectations". In a separate meeting between Wang and the French president's foreign affairs adviser, official news agency Xinhua said the two sides had in-depth communication on issues related to peace and security, and agreed that "multi-polarisation is indispensable for peace and stability". Both countries will continue to strengthen strategic coordination, and agreed to further cooperate in areas of climate change, biodiversity conservation, agricultural and food products, and clean energy, as well as nuclear energy research and development, Xinhua said. The meeting also mentioned increasing the frequency of direct flights between China and France. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Leslie Adler) Former President Donald Trump is gearing up to fight a massive fine in the New York business fraud case that threatens to erase most of the cash he says he has on hand. But first, he has to secure a bond and that might not be so easy. Trump on Friday was ordered to pay about $355 million in penalties, plus more than $98 million in interest after a judge found the former president liable for fraud for manipulating financial statements given to lenders. Every day, the accruing interest adds $87,502 to Trumps bill. Unless he wants to pay the entire penalty while his expected appeal is considered, Trump will need to post an appeal bond. This is typically up to 120% of the judgment plus the current interest. At that rate, Trumps original ruling with interest would indicate he will need to secure a bond worth more than $540 million. But its unlikely that the real estate baron will be able to use his properties as collateral. Its not very attractive to take real estate as collateral, said Neil Pedersen, owner of New York-based surety bond agency Pedersen & Sons. Trump could have to liquidate some assets in order to secure a bond, said Pedersen. The bond company will also charge a fee that could total millions of dollars. An appeal of Judge Arthur Engorons ruling could take years to play out. Another complicating factor: Trumps status as a presidential frontrunner. Its an unprecedented situation for a potential bond company to commit to, Pedersen said. No ones ever had to enforce an indemnity agreement against what could very well be the next U.S. president, he said. Trump has vowed to appeal Engorons ruling, which threatens not just his bottom line, but his entire persona as a mega-rich business genius, one that he has carefully cultivated for decades. But bond agents may have reservations about working with Trump, whose business practices and claims about his wealth have been successfully challenged in court. Appeal bonds are used to ensure that a person ordered to pay a judgment cannot misuse the courts to delay or avoid making that payment. Who ever is going to bond [Trump] is committing that theyre going to make good on that judgment, said New York business attorney David Slarskey. Whos going to do that? Trump, who said in a deposition last year that he had substantially in excess of $400 million in cash, could technically deposit the full judgment against him, plus interest, as he challenges the judgment. But his lawyer has already said that he will secure a bond. We have to post the bond, which is the full amount and some, Trump attorney Alina Habba told Fox News on Monday. We will be prepared to do that, she said. Habba said she expects to post a roughly $400 million bond within a 30-day window to file a notice of appeal, which begins after a court clerk enters Engorons final judgment. Engoron also barred Trump for three years from running a business in New York or applying for loans from financial institutions registered with the state. Habba also appeared to dismiss a question about whether Trump will have to sell off his New York real estate assets as his legal troubles mount. But Pedersen warned that doing so could cause its own headache. Those assets are not liquid, so if Trump loses the appeal, the process of converting them to cash could be difficult perhaps even more so in a case that was centered around disputes about the value of Trumps properties. Habba did not immediately respond to questions from CNBC about the process of securing an appeal bond. Engorons judgment in Manhattan Supreme Court came weeks after a jury in a separate civil case in New York federal court ordered Trump to pay $83.3 million for defaming writer E. Jean Carroll. Thats on top of the $5 million that Trump has already been ordered to pay in a separate defamation case brought by Carroll. After that case was adjudicated, the former president took the unusual step of setting aside a cash deposit of $5.6 million while he pursued an appeal. Trump critic and attorney George Conway, suggested that Trump was unable to secure an appeal bond from a third party. Trumps lawyers denied this, saying he merely wanted to avoid additional fees that would be charged by a bond company. But as Trumps legal penalties soar past the half-billion-dollar mark, Slarskey and others have predicted that Trump may soon declare bankruptcy. Forbes estimated Trumps net worth to be roughly $2.6 billion as of February. Welcome to the online version of From the Politics Desk, an evening newsletter that brings you the NBC News Politics teams latest reporting and analysis from the on the campaign trail, the White House and Capitol Hill. Todays edition features an exclusive interview from NBC News senior national political reporter Natasha Korecki with Nevada Republican Senate candidate Sam Brown and his wife, plus a breakdown of the deep divisions roiling the GOP from NBC News chief political analyst Chuck Todd. Abortion politics are personal for this GOP Senate candidate By Natasha Korecki As Republicans nationally search for their message on abortion, the wife of one of the partys top U.S. Senate candidates has stepped forward with an intensely personal story: Amy Brown, who is married to Nevada Republican Sam Brown, described in an exclusive interview with NBC News how she had an abortion in 2008, before she met her husband. Im sharing my story today so that I can provide awareness for what its like to live in my shoes, for women who have chosen to have abortions. And also just to provide awareness to women that they can take a break, they can take a minute, they can process and hopefully know that they have options, Amy Brown said, as she spoke publicly for the first time about her abortion. Do you have a news tip for our politics team? Let us know Its a complicated message: The Browns say there are many reasons theyre sharing her story, including Sam Brown fearing he would be made into a caricature of a Republican who didnt care about women and their choices. The couple wanted to convey to Nevadans that they understand the position women can face before or after an abortion, even though they support some restrictions on the procedure. Weve got to lead with compassion. And this is not just a policy issue, said Sam Brown, who is vying to take on Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen this fall. Were talking about peoples lives. I would love to see the conversation take that into account a lot more. Opposing a federal abortion ban: In the backdrop of the interview, a broader climate is playing out in Sam Browns party. Republicans in many cases are trying to balance their partys values with their states realities, and this is a dynamic thats likely to play out again and again in the run-up to the November election. Sam Brown said in the interview that he would close the door on supporting a federal abortion ban, adding it should be a state issue. Politics at home: In Nevada, a key state in the race for president and the Senate majority, there is broad support for abortion rights. Abortion is legal for up to 24 weeks and beyond when there are exceptions, a law Sam Brown repeatedly said he had no intention of attempting to undo. When Brown lived in Texas and ran for a state legislative seat in 2014, he supported the states 20-week abortion ban, which at the time allowed some exceptions but not for rape and incest. Asked about that today, he said he personally supports exceptions for rape, incest and the life and health of a mother. Read the full story here Are Republicans too divided to win? Analysis by Chuck Todd In politics, as well as sports, the team thats more divided often loses. And while there are some notable rifts within the Democratic Party, especially on Gaza, the Republican Party as an institution is riven with an overwhelming number of deep divisions. Donald Trump-inspired drama is roiling the GOP from Capitol Hill to many battleground states. Heres just a sampling: House Republicans: They are on their second speaker in less than a year, and if you told me a third speaker would serve before November, I wouldnt be shocked. The key problem: The House majority believes they wouldnt be there without Trump voters, but of the 220 Republicans in the chamber, 17 reside in Biden districts and cant win without swing voters. Senate Republicans: For much of Trumps White House tenure, the Senate GOP was the closest thing the party had to an internal resistance to the Trump movement. But the Republican revolt on the recent border-national security bill appeared to cement a doomed future for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and his wing of the party in the chamber. Michigan: The state GOP has two different people claiming the chairmanship, a confusing situation thats so bad theres talk of two competing state conventions next month. Arizona: The partys leading Senate candidate Kari Lake weaponized a secret recording of a conversation with the now-former state GOP chair. Forget the substance and realize what that says about the depth of the paranoia inside the GOP. And there are plenty of other examples, like in Texas, where state Attorney General Ken Paxton hid behind Trump-style legal conspiracy theories to survive his impeachment and where Trump took the bait and made Paxtons cause his own. If the GOP comes up short in 2024, its not going to be hard to pinpoint what went wrong: The party is likely too divided to win, until Republicans can agree on an ideology that unifies and on a character that unifies. Read the full story here Thats all from The Politics Desk for now. If you have feedback likes or dislikes email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com. And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here. ATHENS (Reuters) -Greek farmers drove their tractors out of central Athens on Wednesday after spending the night in front of parliament to protest against rising fuel and production costs. At least 8,000 farmers, beekeepers and livestock breeders joined the protest on Syntagma Square on Tuesday, echoing grievances at similar demonstrations across Europe, where farmers say they face higher costs and taxes, red tape, excessive environmental rules and competition from cheap imports. Many Greek farmers spent the night on the square before driving out on Wednesday. "We made the move and now we are waiting for the result," said farmer Konstantinos Kyriakopoulos, 34, from the southern Greek region of Messinia. The farmers also say they have been hurt by climate change, with unpredictable flooding, extreme heat and wildfires making their work ever more hazardous. They have briefly blockaded roads and border crossings for weeks while their unions have negotiated with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' conservative government for financial relief. The government has so far offered discounts on power bills and an extension of a tax rebate for agricultural diesel to the end of 2024. It has also said it is willing to discuss a more permanent tax rebate scheme, but that there is no chance of further concessions this year. Farmers have vowed to push for more and were expected to decide later this week on their next moves. "Our decision is to leave Athens now and we will decide by tomorrow our further steps," Rizos Maroudas, head of the farmers union in the agricultural city of Larissa of central Greece told Reuters. While some local grievances vary, farmers' protests have exposed tensions over the impact on farming of the EU's drive to tackle climate change, as well of opening the door to cheap Ukrainian imports to help Kyiv's war effort. Farmers outside Europe are also protesting. In India, police fired tear gas on Wednesday to scatter thousands of farmers as they sought to resume a march to Delhi after rejecting a government offer on prices for their produce. (Reporting by Louisa Gouliamaki, Stamos Prousalis and Lefteris Papadimas; Writing by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Nick Macfie, Alexandra Hudson) (Reuters) -Fresenius reported a 13% jump in fourth-quarter operating profit on Wednesday, above market expectations, citing good earnings development across its businesses and progress in the operational turnaround at its hospital project development unit Vamed. The diversified healthcare group reported quarterly earnings before interests and taxes, and before special items, of 634 million euros ($685 million), 7% above analysts' expectations of 591 million in a poll compiled by Vara Research. The company's strong result echoes the performance of its former dialysis unit Fresenius Medical Care, which on Tuesday reported upbeat quarterly results and gave a higher 2024 guidance. Fresenius CEO Michael Sen, who took the helm a year ago, has been restructuring the group to cut costs and debt, after it was hit by a decline in earnings at FMC. The group last year ceded control of the kidney dialysis business, and is looking into selling smaller non-core businesses to focus on its generic drugs unit Kabi and hospital operator Helios. The restructuring plan will bring Fresenius Kabi, a maker of generic hospital drugs, and Helios with its German and Spanish hospital chains to the forefront. The Hessian-based group reported a slightly lower net debt to core earnings ratio of 3.76 times at the end of 2023, and targets a ratio of between 3.0 and 3.5 by the end of this year. It also forecast organic revenue growth of between 3% and 6% for 2024, compared with analysts' expectations of 5.1%, and operating profit growth of 4% to 8%. ($1 = 0.9250 euros) (Reporting by Tristan Veyet in Gdansk; editing by Milla Nissi) WASHINGTON House Judiciary Committee chair Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, subpoenaed Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra on Tuesday, calling for Becerra to provide case files for unaccompanied child migrants who have been charged with crimes in the U.S. after being released by HHS. In the letter informing Becerra of the subpoena, Jordan details previous requests his committee has issued for case files, arguing that the administration's response has been "woefully inadequate." The committee asked for the files as part of oversight into "mismanagement of the placement of unaccompanied alien children," which Jordan says resulted in some children "committing heinous criminal acts against Americans." Jordan cited his own previous letters to Becerra multiple times. A November letter from Jordan cited media reports about allegations of murders and assaults, where the committee requested case files for the alleged perpetrators. In his February letter, Jordan said that HHS has previously "noted its concern for the privacy interests of criminal aliens and asserted that the Committee lacked a legitimate oversight purpose to obtain the case files." Jordan said that his committee agreed to review HHS documents in private "as an accommodation" but also alleged that documents provided by HHS included "pervasive redactions." An HHS spokesperson in a statement pushed back on Jordan's subpoena, arguing that House Republicans appeared to be "offering a false pretense for a subpoena while still refusing to take action on immigration reform and border security." "As much as we realize that House Judiciary Republicans would like to build a narrative of stonewalling, the facts remain clear: HHS already voluntarily shared the documents in question to the Committee weeks ago," the spokesperson said. "The sole information sought by the Committee is the personally identifiable information, medical records, and protected health information of children." The spokesperson added that it was "unclear" what purpose "such personalized information" would serve. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday evening. Jordan, a staunch critic of Becerra and the Biden administration, also served the HHS secretary with a subpoena in January. CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - A "death ship" carrying thousands of cattle whose foul smell caused a stink in top tourist city Cape Town is expected to continue its voyage to Iraq later on Tuesday, port officials said. The ship, en route from Brazil and carrying an estimated 19,000 cattle, docked in Cape Town on Sunday, bringing with it a nauseating odour that permeated the city centre. Some residents thought a large nearby sewerage works had conked out or their nostrils were being assailed by domestic plumbing problems, a Reuters witness said. A local city councillor, however, confirmed on Monday that the smell was indeed from the "Al Kuwait" vessel, which was immediately boarded by inspectors from the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) on Sunday evening. "According to the latest update from the vessel agent and the terminal operator, the estimated departure of the vessel remains 20 February 2024," port operator Transnet said in a statement on Tuesday. Transnet said the vessel docked for animal feed, vessel stores, bunkers and medical assessments on the bovines. The NSPCA, which campaigns against the live transport of animals, dubbed the vessel a "Kuwaiti death ship" and attributed the smell to the awful conditions animals endured, having spent two and a half weeks on board, with a build-up of faeces and ammonia. "The faeces that the cattle were standing is already basically up to the top of their hooves in some pens," Grace le Grange, a senior inspector who boarded the vessel, told Reuters. "In general the cattle themselves were not in a physically bad condition in terms of weight-wise, but our concern is what happens when they get back onto the ocean," she said. Le Grange said several animals had to be euthanised due to injuries. (Reporting by Wendell Roelf; Editing by Leslie Adler) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis told backers of his unsuccessful presidential bid Wednesday that former President Donald Trump should not play identity politics when picking a 2024 running mate. Now we have a diverse Republican Party. I want everybody in the fold, dont get me wrong. But I dont want people representing 10, 15% of the party being in the drivers seat, DeSantis said on a call with supporters, including those who had committed to serving as delegates for him at this years Republican National Convention, according to audio obtained by NBC News. So I would want somebody that, if something happened, the people that voted us in would have been pleased to know that theyre going to continue the mission, DeSantis added. Im not sure that those are going to necessarily be the criteria that Donald Trump uses. I have heard that theyre looking more in identity politics. I think thats a mistake. I think you should just focus on who the best person for the job would be, and then do that accordingly. More than 200 people joined the video call with DeSantis, according to one source who attended. The 34-minute chat, organized by DeSantis political allies, was notable for how candid and, at times, critical the governor was in sharing concerns about Trump, whom he endorsed for the GOP nomination immediately upon suspending his own campaign last month. Ron DeSantis failed miserably in his presidential campaign and does not have a voice in selecting the next vice president of the United States, Trump spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in response. Rather than throw cheap shots from afar, Ron should focus on what he can do to fire [President] Joe Biden and Make America Great Again. A spokesperson for DeSantis declined to comment. One Republican on the call wondered if DeSantis might be keeping options open for 2024, if Trumps front-running campaign falls apart before the convention this summer in Milwaukee. The timing of this ostensibly thank you call to influential state-level Republicans the DeSantis campaign recruited to be delegates to the 2024 convention is odd, said the Republican, who requested anonymity to share thoughts on a private call. A month ago, sure, but now? It really seems like the governor is trying to keep the door open in the event something happens between now and Milwaukee that creates an opportunity for him to have his name put into nomination from the floor. Asked at one point about Trumps intensely negative focus on him as a candidate, DeSantis seemed to blame Susie Wiles, who helped steer his successful 2018 run for governor before being cast off and eventually resurfacing as a senior adviser to the former president. I think hes got people in his inner circle who were part of our orbit years ago that we fired, and I think some of that is they just have an ax to grind, DeSantis replied. DeSantis also expressed concern about who Trump would surround himself with if he wins another term this fall. I think that how he staffs the White House, how he staffs the administration, will be really, really significant, DeSantis said. I think he likely is going to find people that are going to be more kind of yes men, rather than folks that are going to be pushing back. DeSantis then segued to a point he argued in the final weeks of his presidential campaign that conservative media would provide no checks and balances on Trump. I think they have made the decision that their business model just doesnt work if they offer any criticism of Trump, DeSantis said. I dont see the accountability being in place right now for the balance of this campaign and then, if hes able to win, to go into the White House and actually implement some of these policies. I mean, he said at some point he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and not lose a vote, DeSantis added. Well, I think he could shoot someone on Fifth Avenue and the conservative media wouldnt even report on it that it had happened. While assessing Trumps vice presidential prospects, DeSantis denied any interest in being chosen. In response to another question, he acknowledged he might run for president again in 2028. Oh, I havent ruled anything out, DeSantis said. I mean were still in this election cycle. So its presumptuous to say, you know, this or that. I think a lot happens in politics. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury Assistant Secretary Brent Neiman is holding meetings with government officials and private sector leaders in Ecuador this week as the South American country seeks U.S. financial support amid escalating violence. The visit by Neiman, Treasury's top official on international finance, is the latest by U.S. officials to Ecuador as Washington works to boost bilateral cooperation after the election of President Daniel Noboa, a 36-year old businessman who started his term in November. Neiman began the previously unreported meetings in Quito on Tuesday and will continue discussions on Wednesday, before traveling on to Peru from Feb. 21-25, Treasury said. Neiman will discuss Noboa's economic policies with international financial institutions and review recent Treasury technical assistance, including on government finance, banking and financial services and payment systems, Treasury said. In Lima, Neiman will meet with government and private sector officials to discuss bilateral economic relations, and then travel to Arequipa for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) finance-track deputies meeting, Treasury said. Noboa last month said he was seeking financial support from the U.S. and Europe, as well as extending output from an oil block that was voted to be shut down, as he looks to free up funds to fight organized crime. Ecuador has seen escalating violence, with gunmen storming a live TV broadcast last month, even as the economy is struggling to meet its domestic debt obligations, limiting its ability to borrow from overseas. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Nick Macfie) The site of the closed New Asia restaurant, at 772 Pacific Ave., in San Franciscos Chinatown, could sprout a housing tower. If its approved, the development would also revive the New Asia banquet hall. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Even before the pandemic, Chinatowns traditional banquet halls were at risk of extinction in what, for the better part of the past decade, had been a rapidly gentrifying city. San Franciscos Chinatown is the oldest in the country, and in 2012, the culturally rich neighborhood boasted five of these landmark, large-scale dining and event spaces. Historically, banquet halls have been the gathering spaces for the neighborhoods many family associations and civic organizations. Theyve provided new immigrants with starter jobs and are used for weddings, fundraisers, outreach to local politicians and everything in between. But with business and community vanishing to the suburbs, only one banquet hall remains operational today the Far East Cafe at 631 Grant Ave. That could change in coming years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A proposal is shaping up for a 15-story affordable housing tower at the site of the New Asia restaurant at 772 Pacific Ave., and the projects developers say they intend to revive the defunct banquet hall. It is going to be a challenge, but its one that we are absolutely committed to, said Malcolm Yeung, executive director of the Chinatown Community Development Center. Since it closed, the New Asia restaurant in San Franciscos Chinatown has been repurposed as a market. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Late last month, the Chinatown-based affordable-housing developer signaled its intent to move forward on a long-standing vision to redevelop the single-story New Asia building and an adjacent property at 758 Pacific Ave. into 175 affordable apartments serving the neighborhoods senior population. As currently envisioned, a dim sum restaurant and banquet hall would span its ground and second floors. At 150 feet tall, the new building would surpass the sites 65-foot height limit, though a formal application has yet to be submitted to the citys planning department. Advertisement Article continues below this ad New Asia, which opened in 1987, operated as a pushcart-style dim sum restaurant by day. It could hold some 100 tables for big events, making it the largest banquet hall to operate in Chinatown in the past two decades. However, as banquets were canceled in response to the pandemic, the space was converted into a grocery store in 2020. Yeung said the project is as exciting as it is nerve-wracking. The buildings proposed height would be slightly taller than the 12-story Ping Yuen North Apartments, a public housing property that CCDC operates roughly a block north of 772 Pacific, and would likely require rezoning of the site in the form of a special use district, which can provide relief from certain land use restrictions. But its not necessarily the typical objections from community members about height and affordability that the developer is anxious about. The New Asia building was acquired by the city for $5 million when it came to market in 2017, for the purpose of keeping the banquet hall in place and adding affordable housing a plan that was spearheaded by the late political activist Rose Pak, who died in 2016. At the time, however, the thought was that the New Asia site alone could accommodate between 50 and 80 apartments. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Financing affordable-housing projects is never easy, but at least there is a blueprint for it, said Yeung. For 772 Pacific, CCDC is eyeing tax credit investment and is banking on the passage of a $300 million affordable-housing bond that will come before San Francisco voters in March. But bringing in a major commercial space that is community-serving is unchartered territory for CCDC. I dont know if anyone has done anything like this before an infill redevelopment with an existing business thats also a critical cultural asset, Yeung said. Were not just bringing in new housing, so I think the challenge will be figuring out how to finance it. According to Yeung, the biggest asset of the New Asia banquet hall was a certain level of affordability that it managed to maintain over the years. Ensuring that the redeveloped banquet hall remains accessible to the larger community is key, but will require a lot of partnerships, he said. The goal is for the revived banquet hall to be big enough for at least 60 tables. CCDC is slated to host a community meeting to review the proposal in Chinatown on Tuesday evening and, as the response to another recently proposed housing development on the edge of the neighborhood shows, community buy-in is key. Earlier this month, news of a city-led plan to convert Hotel North Beach at 935 Kearny St. roughly two blocks from the New Asia site into a 150-unit sober living facility for formerly homeless people and those recovering from drug addiction caught the Chinatown community by surprise and caused much uproar. The plan has since been scrapped. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Yeung, CCDC has already conducted more than two dozen meetings about the New Asia project with community stakeholders. The building at 758 Pacific Ave. in San Franciscos Chinatown would be combined with the property next door at 772 Pacific Ave., left, to be remade into an affordable-housing tower. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Weve done a lot of outreach on a project that we think the community is already on board with, but we are not taking that for granted, he said. Yeung said one thing is clear: We know that from a community perspective, not having a replacement for that banquet space is a nonstarter. Bringing New Asia back in a meaningful way is also critical to Chinatowns economic recovery, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Because of the lack of banquet space in Chinatown, there are so many banquets that have moved down to the Peninsula, and thats bad for our economy, he said. Thats also bad for Chinatown residents who arent able to find the transportation to get down to the Peninsula to celebrate cultural events. The proposal comes as Chinatown leaders last year began exploring potential tweaks to a nearly 40-year-old zoning plan that has helped to preserve the neighborhoods cultural identity and affordability, in an effort to revitalize the neighborhoods commercial and cultural assets. Moreover, the proposed housing fills a critical need in the Chinatown community. The New Asia redevelopment would be the first low-income senior housing building to open in the neighborhood since the International Hotel at 848 Kearny St. in 2005. Yeung said that at the time there were 10,000 applicants for just over 100 units. Another industrial slaughterhouse cleaner has been accused by the U.S. Labor Department of illegally employing children as young as 13 to clean dangerous equipment on overnight shifts, according to a temporary restraining order filed in federal court Wednesday. The Labor Department said that Tennessee-based Fayette Janitorial LLC illegally employed 15 children to clean a Perdue Farms poultry plant in Virginia and nine to clean a Seaboard Triumph Foods pork processing plant in Iowa. They cleaned such equipment as head splitters and meat bandsaws. Fayette has 600 employees in 30 states, according to the companys website. Image of an adult Fayette Janitorial worker scooping up animal parts at a processing plant taken by the U.S. Department of Labor during the course of its investigation of Fayette Janitorial Service. (U.S. Department of Labor) Children under the age of 18 are not allowed to work in slaughterhouses because the work is considered by the federal government to be too dangerous. Last summer, a 16-year-old migrant was killed at a Mississippi slaughterhouse when he was sucked into a machine that he was cleaning. Federal laws were established decades ago to prevent employers from profiting from the employment of children in dangerous jobs, yet we continue to find employers exploiting children. said Jessica Looman, administrator of the Labor Departments Wage and Hour Division. As weve unfortunately seen in this case, employers violations of federal child labor laws have real consequences on childrens lives. Our actions to stop these violations will help ensure that more children are not hurt in the future. Fayette did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In a statement, a Perdue Farms spokesperson said, "We terminated our contract with Fayette prior to this court filing. Underage labor has no place in our business or our industry. Perdue has strong safeguards in place to ensure that all associates are legally eligible to work in our facilities and we expect the same of our vendors." NBC News was the first to report that in October, FBI agents discovered dozens of children working at a Kidron, Ohio, chicken plant called Gerbers Poultry that had contracted with Fayette for sanitation. Most of the children are from Guatemala. child labor (Google Maps) At the time, Gerbers Poultry said in a statement, We were surprised to learn that our Kidron, Ohio, plant is the subject of inquiry from federal law enforcement regarding the composition of our employees and some third-party contract employees. We are fully cooperating with that investigation. While we have confidence in our process to ensure we comply with all federal regulations to verify eligibility for employment, we are actively reviewing our policies to ensure compliance at every level and will continue to review our relationships with third party vendors and their policies in similar fashion. Fayette has also been scrutinized for serious safety violations by the Labor Departments Occupational Safety and Health Administration, including an incident at Gerbers Poultry in July 2022 when a worker became trapped in a conveyor belt. OSHA cited Fayette Janitorial for failing to ensure its employees followed proper procedures by making sure machines were turned off. Fayette paid a $13,052 penalty, according to the OSHA enforcement page. The agency lists the accident as an amputation incident on its website. Fayette is the second large slaughterhouse cleaner found by the Labor Department to have employed children. In 2023, the Labor Department found the national company Packers Sanitation Services Inc. had hired more than 100 children in 13 locations. The company paid a $1.5 million civil penalty. In response to the Labor Department investigation, PSSI said in a statement, PSSI has an absolute zero-tolerance policy against employing anyone under the age of 18 and is fully committed to ensuring it is enforced at all local plants. Overall, the Labor Department reports a 152% increase in children illegally employed by companies since 2018. Many of them are Central Americans who came to the U.S. as unaccompanied minors. More than 300,000 children, most from Guatemala and Honduras, have entered the U.S. by themselves in the past three years, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. By Jody Godoy (Reuters) -A Texas cryptocurrency company and an industry group sued the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday, saying the regulator has overstepped its authority and asking a judge to rule that digital assets traded on exchanges are not securities. Fort Worth-based crypto company Lejilex and lobbying group Crypto Freedom Alliance of Texas (CFAT) claim the SEC has asserted jurisdiction over the industry without a "clear statutory mandate." Lejilex says it seeks to run a cryptocurrency platform called Legit.Exchange. The company formed last year said it plans to list digital assets including those the SEC has deemed securities in lawsuits against Coinbase, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S., and Binance, the world's largest crypto exchange. Lejilex wants the court to rule that listing pre-existing tokens will not violate securities laws. "We wish we were launching our business instead of filing a lawsuit, but here we are," Lejilex co-founder Mike Wawszczak said in a statement. A spokesperson for the SEC did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Both Coinbase and Binance have denied the SEC's allegations. CFAT asked the court to block the SEC from suing its members, and said the agency's assertion of jurisdiction over digital assets has made it harder to convince Texas lawmakers to embrace "sensible policies." The group launched last year and counts Coinbase and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz's a16z crypto fund as members. CFAT and Lejilex argue the SEC is wrong to classify digital assets as "investment contracts" because they create no ongoing commitment between creator and purchaser. They also asked the court to apply the "major questions" doctrine, which lets judges invalidate executive agency actions of "vast economic and political significance" unless Congress clearly authorized them. The once-rare doctrine has gained traction among regulatory opponents, as the conservative-leaning U.S. Supreme Court has applied it in a couple of recent cases. Crypto companies fighting SEC enforcement actions, including Coinbase and Binance, have made the same arguments in the other cases, so far without success. A judge in July rejected the argument that an ongoing commitment is required to make an asset a security in the SEC's case against Ripple Labs. Another judge overseeing the regulator's lawsuit against Terraform Labs found the "major questions" doctrine does not apply to the cryptocurrency industry. Both of those cases were brought in New York. The new lawsuit filed in federal court in Fort Worth brings the industry's fight with the regulator under the jurisdiction of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. More than two thirds of the judges on the appeals court were appointed by Republican presidents, making it the favored venue for challenges to the SEC under the Biden administration. The case was assigned to Judge Reed O'Connor, an appointee of Republican former President George W. Bush with a track record of ruling in favor of conservative litigants challenging laws and regulations governing guns, LGBTQ rights and healthcare. Paul Clement, former U.S. Solicitor General under President George W. Bush, represents the plaintiffs. (Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Editing by Andrea Ricci) By Lucy Craymer WELLINGTON (Reuters) -New Zealand parliamentarian and Green Party member Efeso Collins died during a charity event in Auckland on Wednesday, the Green Party said in a statement. Collins, 49, was participating in a ChildFund Water Run to raise money to bring clean drinking water to countries in the Pacific when he collapsed and died. Aotearoa (New Zealand) and the Green Party have lost one of the kindest, most dedicated champions of fairness and equality, Green Party co-leaders James Shaw and Marama Davidson said in a statement. Efeso devoted his life to serving and making a difference to the lives of those he met, including his constituents, colleagues, friends, and family. He held the deepest respect of the members of all political parties and communities, they said. New Zealand's Parliament will sit this afternoon for political party leaders to make brief comments and then it will adjourn until Feb. 27 as a mark of respect. Collins, who was born in Auckland, New Zealand, and was of Tokelauan and Samoan heritage, served three terms on the Auckland Council. He was elected to parliament as a member of the Green Party in the 2023 election. He held the Samoan alii chief title of Faanana from the village of Satufia, Satupaitea in Savaii. Collins was married and had two children. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a statement he was saddened by the news of Collins' sudden death. "Efeso was a good man, always friendly and kind, and a true champion and advocate for his Samoan and South Auckland communities," he said. (Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by Josie Kao) Nikki Haley speaks in Greenville, South Carolina, on 20 February. Photograph: Julia Nikhinson/AFP/Getty Images The Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has spoken in response to the recent supreme court ruling out of Alabama, revealing that she believes embryos created through in vitro fertilization, or IVF, are babies. In a new interview with NBC, the former UN ambassador expressed support for the Friday ruling by Alabamas supreme court that deemed that frozen embryos are children. Related: Alabama university pauses IVF care after frozen embryos deemed children I had artificial insemination. That is how I had my son One thing is to save sperm or to save eggs but when you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, that is a life. And so I do see where that is coming from when they talk about that, Haley said. Haleys comments come after Alabamas supreme court allowed two wrongful death lawsuits against a Mobile fertility clinic to proceed. The lawsuits stem from an incident in 2020 when a patient removed several embryos from the clinics cryogenic storage. According to the lawsuit, the subzero temperatures at which the embryos had been stored freeze-burned the patients hand, causing the patient to drop the embryos on the floor, killing them. A statement released by the Alabama supreme court justice Jay Mitchell said: The central question presented in these consolidated appeals, which involve the death of embryos kept in a cryogenic nursery, is whether the act contains an unwritten exception to that rule for extrauterine children that is, unborn children who are located outside of a biological uterus at the time they are killed. Mitchell added: Under existing black-letter law, the answer to that question is no: the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location. Asked whether she has any concerns on how the courts ruling could hurt people seeking IVF treatment, Haley said: I think that we have to have those conversations Lets never underestimate the relationship between a doctor and a patient. This is one where we need to be incredibly respectful and sensitive about it, she said, adding: I know that when my doctor came in, we knew what was possible and what wasnt Every woman needs to know, with her partner, what she is looking at. And then when you look at that, then you make the decision thats best for your family. After news broke of Haleys remarks, the Planned Parenthood Votes executive director Jenny Lawson issued a statement lambasting Haley. After months of trying to paint herself as moderate on reproductive rights, Nikki Haley has finally shown us her true colors. She said the quiet part out loud. When Nikki Haley says Embryos, to me, are babies, shes telling us they wont stop at 15 or 16 weeks. Republicans were never going to stop with overturning Roe v Wade. They want to ban all abortions nationwide, throw doctors in jail, and come for other essential reproductive health care like birth control and IVF, Lawson said. Politicians like Nikki Haley and Donald Trump do not care what happens to our families they only care about eliminating our reproductive freedom. Voters should be outraged at this attack on their freedom. The only way to stop these attacks is to ensure that neither Nikki Haley nor Donald Trump set foot in the White House. Haley, who is currently trailing behind Donald Trump in the 2024 Republican presidential contest, has previously downplayed the federal abortion ban. Instead, the former South Carolina governor has said that it was up to each state to determine their limits on abortion. During her time as governor, Haley signed a bill into law that bans abortion at 20 weeks and does not provide exceptions for rape or incest. This article was amended on 22 February 2024 to correct the year a patient removed several embryos from cryogenic storage at a clinic in Mobile, Alabama. An earlier version said the year was 2021, rather than 2020. NEW YORK Paul Giamatti cant stop thinking about the Roman Empire. Its a lifelong fascination that found its way into The Holdovers, for which he earned a best actor Oscar nomination playing a cantankerous ancient history teacher. So when we meet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on a recent frosty morning, the beloved star is eager to peruse the Greek and Roman galleries. He marvels at a serpentine bronze strigil a fourth-century skin care tool and stops to point out a flinty marble bust from the Julio-Claudian period. This one is really cool. The guys very real-looking! says Giamatti, winding through a labyrinth of headless statues and terracotta vases. Growing up, I was always interested in this stuff. Sometimes I wonder if thats one of the reasons why (my character loves) Rome in the film. Paul Giamatti loves his "Holdovers" character's many insults, which range from "really elevated" to "very low-rent." As we eyeball a set of sea-green armor, a stranger cuts in to share her rave review of The Holdovers. You were amazing. I hope you win the Oscar! she tells Giamatti, who graciously accepts the compliment. Hes had many of these interactions since the heartfelt dramedy was released in theaters and on Peacock, picking up five Oscar nods including best picture and best supporting actress (DaVine Joy Randolph). Its nice, he says. Its funny, you never know whats going to strike a chord. Paul Giamatti recalls feeling 'guilt' over 'Sideways' Oscar snub Paul Giamatti, left, and Dominic Sessa in "The Holdovers." Giamatti modeled his character on his 10th grade biology teacher, from the bushy mustache to the tweed hat and toggle coat. Set at an all-boys boarding school over Christmas 1970, the movie traces the unlikely bond thats forged between the caustic Paul Hunham (Giamatti), his mutinous pupil (Dominic Sessa) and the schools head cook (Randolph). It was a familiar world to Giamatti, 56, whose dad was president of Yale University in the late 70s and 80s. Although, this guys a bit more eccentric than my father was, Giamatti says. The project reunites him with director Alexander Payne, two decades after their 2004 hit Sideways." Giamatti sees parallels between Paul and Miles, his merlot-hating curmudgeon in the wine comedy. Their smug obsessions were funny to me, Giamatti says. I play a lot of guys who dont fit in very well. I think over the years, its increased my sympathy and empathy for people. He brings up a moment in The Holdovers, when Paul tells a bowling alley Santa that his costume is historically inaccurate. I remember thinking it was the weirdest thing, like, Whats the point of this scene? Giamatti says. But then, he came to understand that Pauls pleasure in his own intelligence is also his biggest trap. He doesnt even realize that hes being completely awkward. "Sideways" star Paul Giamatti posing for a USA TODAY portrait in Los Angeles in 2004. "The Holdovers" marks Giamatti's first Oscar nomination for best actor, after a supporting actor nod for the 2005 drama "Cinderella Man." He was surprisingly snubbed for "Sideways," despite nods for his co-stars, but humbly insists that he didn't expect one. The harder thing to deal with was other peoples disappointment and my own sense of guilt. My agents and managers felt pretty sure something was going to happen, so I felt bad for them. Going into Saturday's Screen Actors Guild Awards, he's neck and neck with Cillian Murphy ("Oppenheimer") to win the Oscar, having taken best actor at the Golden Globe, Critics Choice and National Board of Review awards. I hope people (in Hollywood) finally realize what a star he is and that he is, in fact, a leading man, Payne says. Theres nobody like him; people want to see him. Hes a household name, for Petes sake. 'The Holdovers' star credits 'strange optimism' for his 30-year career "It's had this weird, lasting staying power," Paul Giamatti says of 2002's satirical "Big Fat Liar." After snaking through Ancient Egypt and the French Renaissance, we eventually wander to a secluded wing of the museum devoted to British artwork. Walking across a creaky wooden floor, we take a seat in the sparsely lit room, where plaster casts of Greek figures Dionysus and Apoxyomenos loom over us. In all my years of going to this place, there are still new things I find, says Giamatti, a native of New Haven, Connecticut, who now resides in Brooklyn with his girlfriend, actress Clara Wong. After graduating from Yale in 1989, he moved to Seattle and cut his teeth as a theater actor, periodically booking roles in TV movies like Shell Take Romance. (I was Heckler No. 2, he recalls.) He eventually broke out in Howard Sterns 1997 film Private Parts, juggling broad family comedies like Big Fat Liar with artier fare such as American Splendor. The sense of play is greater for some of them, Giamatti explains, but he strives to approach everything with the same full-throttle commitment. Its why he sat in the makeup chair for three hours to shoot a 15-second TV ad in which he reprised his Planet of the Apes character, Limbo. Why not? It was great! Giamatti exclaims. A Japanese Pepsi commercial in ape makeup? That was one of the most interesting things Ive ever done. The Emmy winner has worked steadily for the last three decades, in genres spanning superheroes ("The Amazing Spider-Man 2"), musicals ("Rock of Ages") and historical dramas (HBO's "John Adams"). But he worries at times that hes too old to play certain roles now, including a private detective in a hoped-for project with Payne. Its brutal, Giamatti says. I keep having these horrifying realizations, like, Oh, no, Im approaching 60, so that would have to be a thing in the movie, you know what I mean? That was a shock. Theres stuff thats gone that I wont be able to do and things that passed I wish Id done. "I can look back at that and go, 'I think I'm a better actor now,' " says Paul Giamatti, who comes full circle with "Sideways" and "The Holdovers." Hes thought about pursuing things outside of acting, such as drawing or animation. (But frankly, he admits, I dont think I know how to do anything else at this point.) He's grateful for the warm embrace of "Holdovers" from critics and audiences, even as he tries to figure out where exactly he "fits" in Hollywood. I still dont know! Giamatti says with a laugh. Sometimes Im just like, Huh, what a funny career Ive had. Every actor has that: There are tough times where youre not getting much stuff, and you wonder if its still worth doing. But then I would get something I enjoyed, and its enough to keep you going until the next one. Theres a strange optimism and hope underneath it all. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Paul Giamatti on aging, Oscar nominations and 'The Holdovers' movie Previously unseen photographs showing the Rolling Stones at their decadent peak are going on display at a London art gallery. The images were taken by photographer Spanish Tony Sanchez, who lived and worked with the band as both friend and fixer for a time, and were thought to have been lost, according to a statement from the organizers of the exhibition. Mick Jagger sings at the "Rock and Roll Circus" show of 1968, a concert that saw the final performance by guitarist Brian Jones. - Spanish Tony Media/Bayliss Rare Books These recently rediscovered prints stand as one of the most important photographic records of The Rolling Stones to come to the market in years, the statement reads. The show, titled Elegantly Wasted, will feature photos of the Stones taken at their decadent peak, according to the statement from Bayliss Rare Books and Spanish Tony Media. Tony had unprecedented access to the band, it reads. These photos are the most idiosyncratic shots of the band a collector could hope for. Sanchez took this shot during a photo shoot for the "Beggars Banquet" album cover at Swarkestone Hall Pavilion in Derbyshire, England. - Spanish Tony Media/Bayliss Rare Books The exhibition will run from February 28 to March 5 at J/M Gallery in London, and limited edition prints will be available to buy through Bayliss Rare Books. I couldnt be happier to be involved in this project. I spent months trawling through Tonys archive thousands of negatives and contact sheets and am blown away by Tonys unique eye and the quality of these images, said Oliver Bayliss, owner and founder of Bayliss Rare Books. Fans and collectors alike are in for a real treat. Sanchez, who died in 2000, was a British photographer of Spanish descent who worked as Stones guitarist Keith Richards assistant. A contact sheet shows photographs taken at the Stones' legendary free concert in Hyde Park, London, in the summer of 1969. - Spanish Tony Media/Bayliss Rare Books Spanish Tony was a hard man. Biff bang! One of those. He ran a gambling casino for Spanish waiters, after hours, Richards told Life magazine in a 2010 interview. He was a dope dealer with a Mark 10 Jaguar, two-tone, all done up pimp-style. The Rolling Stones are soon to embark on a tour of the US and Canada, starting in Houston on April 28 and finishing up in Santa Clara, California, on July 17. The tour will include classic hits as well as music from their latest album, Hackney Diamonds, released in October last year. Composed of 12 tracks, the album is the bands first new music in 18 years, and their first since the death of drummer Charlie Watts in 2021, though he plays on two tracks they recorded two years earlier, according to front man Mick Jagger. The video for the albums lead single, Angry, stars White Lotus actor Sydney Sweeney. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Maxim Kuzminov, a Russian pilot who dramatically defected to Ukraine by flying his helicopter across the border, is dead, according to Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR). The news comes after the Spanish Civil Guard in Alicante province told CNN that a man had been shot to death on February 13 inside the parking garage of an apartment building in Villajoyosa, a seaside resort on the Mediterranean Sea. Initially, the Civil Guard said the victim was a 33-year-old Ukrainian but later said the identity of the body was still to be determined and part of an investigation, which had been sealed by a judge. A source at Ukraines GUR confirmed to CNN the body of the man found in Spain was that of Kuzminov, but would not comment on how he had died. The remains of the man shot inside the garage are thought to still be in Alicante province under the supervision of forensic examiners. The shooting took place in a neighborhood where some Russian and Ukrainian expatriates have settled since the war began, according to the Villajoyosa city hall press office. Asked Tuesday whether Russia had any knowledge of the death, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had no information on the matter. Russian Foreign Intelligence Director Sergey Naryshkin would also not comment directly on Kuzminovs death, but told reporters the defector had become a moral corpse the moment he began planning his dirty and terrible crime, Russias RIA Novosti reported. Shortly after Kuzminovs defection, Russian TV aired a segment about him on the Vesti Nedeli program, which carried a clear threat to the defectors life. In the program, a reporter said that Russias own military intelligence agency had already received their order with regard to Kuzminov, adding that, its fulfillment is only a matter of time. Kuzminov's body was reportedly found in a garage in Spain. - Rafa Arjones/Informacion/Reuters Later in the segment, a man in a military uniform, whose face is shown covered, says: We cant let such a thing go, we will punish him for such actions. The Freedom for Russia Legion a group associated with Ukraines GUR made up of Russian nationals fighting for Ukraine - expressed their condolences to family and friends of Kuzminov, saying he was a real warrior and honest man. Ukraine fulfilled all its obligations to Maxim, he received the promised monetary reward for the delivered equipment and had the opportunity to choose to stay in Ukraine and live in peace, continue serving in one of the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, or go to the EU, the Legion said in a statement. Lets give it a try Kuzminov defected in August after Kyiv got his family out of Russia undetected, the head of the GUR, Kyrolo Budanov, told Radio Liberty last year. Budanov said it was the first successful operation of its kind. When Kuzminov flew into Ukraine, the two other Russian service members on board the Mi-8 helicopter with him did not know what was happening. The pair were killed while trying to escape after they realized they had landed in Ukraine. We would prefer (to take) them alive, but it is what it is, Budanov said at the time. In an interview published by the GUR in September, Kuzminov recounted the defection. He told reporters he fled Russia because he was opposed to the war. I contacted representatives of Ukrainian intelligence, explained my situation, to which they offered this option: Come on, we guarantee your safety, guarantee new documents, guarantee monetary compensation, a reward, the pilot said. His defection seemingly came last minute during a flight near the border. After relaying his location, he said lets give it a try, Im not that far away. Having made a final decision, I flew at an extremely low altitude in radio silence mode. No one understood what was going on with me at all, Kuzminov said. CNNs Victoria Butenko and Andrew Carey reported from Kyiv, Ukraine, and Al Goodman from Madrid For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has vowed to remain in the race, regardless of the outcome of Saturday's South Carolina primary, where she is badly trailing Donald Trump. Difficult polls in her home state - on top of three consecutive losses to Mr Trump - have fuelled speculation that Ms Haley may drop out of the race soon. "I'm not," she said in Greenville, South Carolina. "Far from it." She pledged to at least finish the 16 races on Super Tuesday - 5 March. "I refuse to quit," Ms Haley said to applause. "South Carolina will vote on Saturday. But on Sunday, I'll still be running for president. I'm not going anywhere." Mr Trump is spending time in South Carolina to ensure he wins by a large margin and further cements his position as the Republican frontrunner. He and Ms Haley have been in a head-to-head contest for the Republican nomination since Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign in January. At a town hall event on Tuesday night also in Greenville, Mr Trump said he believed Ms Haley did not know "how to get out" of the race. "She just can't get herself to get out," Mr Trump said. "If she was doing well, I'd understand it. But she's doing very poorly." But Ms Haley, the former South Carolina governor, has been unable to catch Mr Trump. Recent polls from South Carolina show she is some 30 points behind the former president. Nationally, that margin is even wider. Still, Ms Haley has continued her campaign in earnest, scheduling a flurry of events across the country. She has gone so far as to announce campaign teams in Texas, Georgia, Vermont and California. The former governor embraced her underdog position during her remarks in Greenville on Tuesday, dismissing the "political elites and party bosses" who have discounted her campaign. She again cast herself as the younger, more stable alternative to both Mr Trump and President Joe Biden - calling them two "old men" on Tuesday. And the former UN Ambassador who served under Mr Trump continued to sharpen her critiques of her former boss, calling him a "disaster", and assessing that he is "more unstable and more unhinged" than he was during his first turn in the White House. "He's completely distracted," she said, alluding to his many legal problems. "And everything is about him." Ms Haley's long-shot bid has been fuelled by hefty donations from deep-pocketed donors. Campaign officials said earlier this month that she had raised $16.5m (13m) in January. "We are going to have the resources to go the distance," Betsy Ankney, Ms Haley's campaign manager, told reporters last month. But Saturday's vote could be the last chance for Ms Haley to prove to prospective voters that she can go the distance and truly challenge Mr Trump, even if she is committed to seeing the results on Super Tuesday. If she is unable to rally support in her home state, the narrow path to a nomination will narrow even further. There will be 16 contests on Super Tuesday - 5 March - that account for 874 Republican delegates. That's more than a third of the 2,429 total delegates to be awarded this year. A candidate must win half that total to become the Republican nominee. Thus far, Ms Haley has won 17 delegates. Despite the long odds, Ms Haley remained committed to the process and said the US is not holding "a Soviet style election where there's only one candidate and he gets 99% of the vote". "We don't anoint kings in this country," she added. "We have elections and Donald Trump of all people should know, we don't rig elections." More on the US election Picture the scene: you just got to work, and you yawn as you walk through the parking lot. It's early, and you can't help but imagine yourself snuggled in bed at home. Suddenly, the early morning silence is interrupted by an unusual sound. It's a muffled yelping noise, and in an instant, you realize two things: there's a dog trapped inside one of the cars in the parking lot... and judging by the volume and the persistence of the pooch's yelps, it's in distress. This is exactly what happened to a woman named Carrie Gillaspie. The "craziest thing" All too often, people on social media stretch the truth in hopes of going viral. But when Carrie Gillaspie heard those scared barks that day in the parking lot, she knew she had a very serious and very real story on her hands. A digital reporter for the Kansas City Royals, Gillaspie first revealed her story on social media in the spring of 2023. She began by telling her followers, The absolute craziest thing happened to me today. And what Gillaspie said next proved that she wasnt exaggerating, either. The mysterious vanishing puppy "The absolute craziest thing" started when Gillaspie drove her car into her workplaces nearby parking lot. It wasn't until she was walking through the parking lot that she first heard the muffled cries of a dog. Gillaspie initially thought shed discovered the source of all the barking. But when she got down on her hands and knees to look under one particular vehicle, all she saw was the pavement no dog. And yet, the barking continued, and it sounded like it was coming from that very spot. "It's coming from inside this car" In an interview with Inside Edition Gillaspie explained, There was no dog under the car but I could still hear the whimpering and Im like, Its coming from inside this car. But when Gillaspie peered into the car's windows, all she saw were empty seats. The canine wasnt simply in the passenger seat, and he wasn't in the backseat, either. No, Gillaspie had to think outside the box in order to find the source of the panicked barks. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/stressed-woman-calling-for-help-on-phone-with-car-royalty-free-image/609037406?phrase=opening+car+hood&adppopup=true Only one other possibility And when Gillaspie put her ear to the trunk of the car, she didn't hear anything. This meant that the barks had to be coming from somewhere else in the car... but where? That's when Gillaspie's heart sank. You see, if the dog wasn't under the car or inside the car, then there was only one other place to check: under the hood. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/young-woman-driving-car-in-parking-garage-royalty-free-image/200173820-001?phrase=woman+in+parking+lot&adppopup=true "Don't leave me!" Sure enough, when Gillaspie popped the hood of the car, she was greeted by two terrified eyes and a loud, piercing bark. Yes, it was here that a puppy aged just four months had somehow got herself trapped! Gillaspie added, It stopped barking or whimpering cause it could hear me there. As soon as I stopped talking it went right back to whimpering as if to say, Dont leave me, Im here. https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/may-2021-baden-wuerttemberg-stuttgart-a-police-officer-news-photo/1233244740 The owner of the car So where exactly did the poor dog come from? And who did it belong to? Well, it certainly wasnt the owner of the vehicle whose hood she was found trapped inside. In fact, Ashley Newman, a charity coordinator, was just as stunned to learn about the canine as Gillaspie. After all, it isn't every day that a tiny furry friend somehow ends up in the engine compartment of your car... and survives! "In my car?" Newman works for the Royal Charities organization designed to help a whole host of Kansas City communities; clearly, she knows a thing or two about helping the less fortunate out of difficult situations. But it's safe to say that Newman had never encountered a situation like this before! On first hearing about her surprise stowaway, the charity coordinator responded by saying, Oh my goodness! In my car? Urgent circumstances As she revealed in an interview with Fox, Newman was busy at work when she was told to head for the parking lot. The coordinator said, Im getting a call from one of my coworkers, and honestly, I sent him to voicemail. Im in a meeting. And hes like, This is pretty urgent. If there was ever a time to skip out on a meeting, it was then. The last thing Newman expected to see when she got to her car was a crowd of people and a furry animal stuck in her engine. How can they save it? Newman disclosed what she saw when the hood of her car was finally lifted up. The charity worker said, Two eyeballs just looking right up at us. She was in there pretty good. Obviously, the question of how they'd safely get the pooch out of the car was on everyone's minds. She'd also somehow survived a trip inside a hot engine compartment; the pup's health was top priority. Finally freed Of course, if the pup was able to shimmy her way into the engine, then there had to be a way for her to shimmy out. And thanks to some assistance from various other Kansas City Royals co-workers, the pooch was eventually freed via the underside of the vehicle. The rescue wasn't over yet, mind you. Newman expressed her concern for the puppy's well being as soon as it was freed from the engine. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/march-2022-poland-medyka-a-woman-holds-a-rescued-puppy-on-news-photo/1239179775?adppopup=true A long, dangerous commute During her interview, Newman talked about how astonished she was that the dog was still alive. After all, her commute to work isnt just down the road. Yes, the poor canine had been stuck in the engine for a whole half hour. Newman hails from the town of Olathe, which is miles away from the Royals Kauffman Stadium. Animals that sneak into engine compartments often suffer serious burns as a result if they survive at all. Dehydrated and exhausted Needless to say, the crowd surrounding the newly-freed pup held their breaths as they inspected her for injuries. Gillaspie revealed how the poor pooch reacted after being rescued from the car engine. As you would expect, the puppy was fairly shaken by the whole ordeal. The reporter said, She was dehydrated, she was so exhausted. She drank a whole bowl of water and then she just kind of fell over. An impossible feat Given the pup's shaky condition, it was imperative that they find her owner. Meanwhile, Newman was at a loss as to how the canine had gotten into her car's engine compartment in the first place. She told Fox Weather, I know shes a little thing so Im sure theres a way. She obviously finagled her way in there but youd almost think it was impossible." No doubt that the dogs owners were just as bewildered when they learned what happened. Facebook to the rescue It was later discovered that the canine's name was BonBon, a Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix who had gone missing a whole four days before Gillaspie came to the rescue. And thanks to the power of Facebook, Newman was able to reunite the pup with her owner, Thatiana Chavez. You see, Chavez had been desperate to find the missing pup, and she'd posted about BonBon's disappearance on a lost pets Facebook page. https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/news-photo/poster-taped-to-a-concrete-wall-for-a-beloved-missing-pet-news-photo/929322098 Bawling her eyes out Newman was proud of how quickly they were able to find Chavez. I think it is a testament of how quick we come together and just make things happen, she told Fox Weather. Chavez also opened up about the moment she got the call that BonBon was okay. She said, I was worried about her for the four days that she went missing. And when I got a call from Ashley I literally almost bawled both my eyes out because I couldnt believe that she was still alive and breathing. GoFundMe campaign A GoFundMe campaign was subsequently set up by Chavez to help with the handful of injuries that BonBon sustained during her ordeal. Yes, sadly the inquisitive dog didnt emerge from the hood of Newmans car entirely unscathed. An engine compartment can be hundreds of degrees, so it would've been a miracle if BonBon hadn't had any injuries. Plus, no one knows how long she'd been inside the car, or what she'd gotten into on the other days she'd been missing. Injured paw Her owner explained the full extent of BonBon's injuries on the fundraising page. Chavez wrote, Were not sure how her paw and tail got injured. But I took her to see a veterinarian and they gave us some news and said they would have to amputate her tail. And as of right now theyre trying to figure out if they can save her toes. BonBon has a long road to recovery, but there's one part of her that hasn't been injured: her personality. https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/photo/veterinarian-checking-shih-tzu-puppys-ears-with-royalty-free-image/1308561777?phrase=+Shih+Tzu+vet "Sweetest girl" BonBon was described as the sweetest girl, playful, and a very clingy little puppy by Chavez in her GoFundMe introduction. Its clear that the pooch was missed during her time away. Chavez also opened up about her own limitations as a dog owner: At just 18 years old, she simply didnt have the money herself to pay for all of her pets vet bills. She and BonBon needed more help from their community if the pup was going to make a full recovery. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/khloe-royalty-free-image/1421380670?phrase=+Pomeranian+Shih+Tzu&adppopup=true Giving thanks Chavez went on to add, Ive already been through so much with her since I found out about her. So its been a struggle for me and BonBon lately and any donation will help. Thank you all and God bless. She concluded the emotional post with a heart-shaped emoji. Clearly, Chavez didn't only mean the world to BonBon; the love went both ways. With the pure love between a puppy and her owner on display, people knew they had to help. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/sweet-dog-so-cute-mixed-breed-with-shih-tzu-royalty-free-image/866175314?phrase=+Pomeranian+Shih+Tzu&adppopup=true Surpassing the goal The GoFundMe campaign soon racked up over $1,000 in donations from members of the public touched by BonBons predicament. But that figure more than doubled once the remarkable story was covered on the likes of Inside Edition and by People magazine. In fact, its now surpassed the goal of $2500 needed to pay BonBons vet bills. Pamela Myers-Lewis was just one of the many generous individuals who pledged money to the campaign. Very fortunate pup Myers-Lewis wrote in the comments section, Bonbon is adorable and, all things considered, one, very fortunate pup! Prayers for her complete recovery. Thankfully, after being kept at the veterinarians for several days BonBon was able to head home to fully recuperate. The dedication people like Gillaspie, Newton, and the other rescuers had to saving BonBon was inspiring to see, especially since the "rescuing" is often the other way around. woman using phone and laptop Who rescues who? Although some dogs are considered to be "rescue" dogs or dogs that were rescued from a shelter or from life as a stray others literally end up rescuing their owners from dangerous, or even deadly, situations. Like BonBon, a woman named Annette Poitras once discovered she was trapped. The difference between her story and BonBon's? Annette had three dogs for company. https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/attendees-cuddle-with-puppies-from-a-local-rescue-paw-works-news-photo/503928198?adppopup=true A beloved figure A resident of British Columbia, Canada, Annette was part of a loving family back home. She had a husband, Marcel Poitras, as well as a daughter. Plus the mom was well regarded in her community thanks to her love of dog walking. She even made a career out of it. Knowing the area So Annette was pretty familiar with the nearby hiking trails, seeing that she often traversed them with local pooches. The paths around Coquitlams Eagle Mountain were no different. But as winter closed in toward the end of 2017, the dog walkers knowledge of that particular area went out the window. How the drama started On the afternoon of November 20, 2017, Annette headed out to Eagle Mountain with three dogs. The first of those was Chloe, her pet collie. As for the other two, Bubba the puggle and Roxy the boxer belonged to different owners, who had handed them over to the canine walker. They trusted Annette to watch over their dogs; little did they know, the dogs would soon be watching over Annette instead! The pivotal moment Everything appeared to be well as the quartet traversed the paths, with Annette keeping a close eye on the animals. At that stage, it looked like a pretty standard stroll for the dog walker. Yet everything changed when a member of the group suddenly broke away from the beaten track. Giving chase Hey, it can happen, right? As any dog owner will tell you, they dont always stick to the paths! So Annette gave chase to the boisterous canine, hoping to get the walk back on track. Unfortunately, though, her plans quickly fell by the wayside... and we mean that figuratively and literally. A costly fall You see, Annette lost her balance during the pursuit and suffered a nasty fall. The impact of the landing left the mom with an injured back and a sore side. But thats not all. On top of that, her phone went missing after she hit the ground as well. Talk about bad luck! Time to leave... Thankfully, Annette was still able to move around a bit despite her injuries, but one thing became quite clear: this walk was over. She needed to leave the woodland and get those scrapes checked out pronto. On that note, the British Columbia resident rounded up the three dogs for the return trip. Here comes the rain Heres where it all started to unravel, though. Coupled with Annettes injuries, the weather took a turn for the worse after her tumble too. Yes, rain pelted the path relentlessly, making it a lot more hazardous than usual. Due to that, the dog walker couldnt go back the way she came. Hunkering down So Annette was essentially stuck. There was no way she could take a chance walking the now-treacherous trails given her less than stellar condition. With that in mind, the mother stayed put in the area where she suffered her fall. The three pooches also sat with her as evening started to draw in. Concern Meanwhile, away from the wilderness, concern about Annette and the dogs well-being began to ramp up. With her phone gone, Marcel nor anybody else could get in touch with her. We can only imagine how they were feeling at that stage, especially as it got darker. Where might she be? The search begins Marcel eventually contacted the authorities later that day when there was still no sign of Annette. From there, a plan was put together by the likes of Coquitlam Search and Rescue and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. With the tools at their disposal, they hoped to locate the missing dog walker as soon as possible. A helping hand But it wouldnt be easy after all, where could you start? Well, the authorities were given a helping hand by a guy named Marc Herr. Just before Annette left the trail to pursue the runaway dog, he noticed her from his car. He was taking a smoke break at the time. How fortunate! Speaking up Speaking to the CTV News website in November 2017, Herr recalled the moment when he was made aware of the search for Annette. He said, I saw it on the news and [thought], Oh my God. Id seen her and the dogs. After that, he quickly contacted those in charge of finding the mom. Challenges Thanks to Herr, the search parties now had a specific section of the woodland to comb through. Make no mistake, though locating Annette would still have its challenges, given how vast and dangerous the terrain was. Plus she didnt stay in the same spot on her second day out there. On the move You see, after sleeping under the stars on that first evening, Annette noticed that she was down a dog again. So the walker had to summon a lot of energy and grit to pick herself up off the ground. Just like people were out searching for her, she now needed to follow suit to find the missing canine. A lucky break Off Annette went then, hobbling across the tricky terrain with her two other furry pals. Could she locate the dog? Luckily, the group headed in the right direction, as they approached some power lines. The pooch soon reappeared, much to her relief. Her stress levels mustve been off the charts! Out of time Mind you, whatever positivity Annette was feeling during that spell quickly evaporated. Why? Simple after making her group whole once more, she couldnt continue mapping out a potential escape route. Time had defeated them, meaning another evening out in the Canadian wilderness was on the cards. Home was still a long way away. No headway And the mood outside of the woods couldnt have been much better. Despite sending out a pair of helicopters, several all-terrain vehicles, drones, and a search party of over 100 people, the authorities struggled to pinpoint Annettes location. The weather was an additional problem as well, bringing things to a standstill for a while. Hunger and thirst We wouldnt have blamed Marcel for feeling downhearted at that point. After all, his missing wife wasnt just battling the elements, she had no food or drink to keep her strength up either. Along with her injuries, that was an incredibly bad mix. So time was very much of the essence. An unexpected lesson Yet as the authorities and search parties continued to press ahead against the awful conditions, Annette did receive some unexpected help when night drew in. Who from? The dogs, of course! Yes, she realized that her canine pals were doing something that she could replicate while hunkering down to rest. Digging a hole Marcel went into more detail on that front during an interview with Global News in November 2017. He informed the Canadian station, [Annette] happened to notice one of the dogs was digging a hole to sleep in. [The undergrowth] is very spongy; it soaks up a lot of water. Learned from the dogs So [Annette] started sweeping away all the brush and everything to get down into the dirt, and kind of made herself a little well to sleep in, Marcel continued. She learned from the dogs. Wow! Talk about teamwork. The animals really stepped up here, even if they werent fully aware of it. Lifesaving? It mightve even saved Annettes life. Hey, thats not as bold a claim as it sounds. Think about it by staying dry across the night, she gave herself a better chance of avoiding issues such as hypothermia. And on top of that, Marcel also noted that it hadnt been as cold in the freshly dug holes. A breakthrough! Anyway, lets switch our focus to the third day of the search now. Even though Annette and the dogs were still hanging in there, they realistically couldnt spend much more time out in the woods. Something had to give, and soon. On that note, at around 11:00 a.m. on November 22, 2017, the breakthrough was finally made. https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/detail/photo/male-pilot-flying-helicopter-royalty-free-image/157389594?phrase=rescue+team+forest&adppopup=true Successful sound sweep Yes, as a sound sweep was being conducted with whistles and cries along the trail, Annette overheard the commotion. The relief mustve been palpable. Her nightmare was ending! To shed some light on what happened next, Michael Coyle spoke to CTV News. He was the boss of Coquitlam Search and Rescue. Very chatty and very happy Coyle said, At the end of one of those segments, [a search party] heard [Annette] replying and they heard the dogs barking joyfully. She was very chatty and very happy to see the searchers, but very wet and in a lot of stress from being out in the cold that long. The rescue From there, Annette and the dogs had to wait a little while longer before they could be lifted out of the woods. The mom was up first, as she got attached to a harness hanging from a helicopter. Once she was unloaded by a medical team, her furry pals then took the same trip. How was Annette? It was quite a sight for the surrounding onlookers. But thats got us wondering what kind of state was Annette in after the dramatic rescue? Marcel offered some insight about that while chatting to CTV News, providing a vivid description of his wife before she got to the nearby hospital. White as a ghost Marcel said, [Annette] was white as a ghost. [The medics] couldnt find any veins to give her any intravenous in the van. They needed to get her warmed up a little bit more. But shes doing great. As for her injuries, Annette luckily didnt break any bones from the earlier fall. A miracle? Its fair to say that things couldve been a lot worse for the dog walker! Al Hurley certainly thought so, as Coquitlam Search and Rescues search manager spoke to CBC in November 2017. He said, Its a miracle to me that she seems in pretty good shape. Hurley also explained how the helicopters managed to miss Annette before she was rescued. Obscured Hurley continued, It was extremely wet and slippery [in the woods], with very thick underbrush. The [infrared sensor] was out with the helicopter yesterday and didnt pick up any body heat, so thats how thick the brush is. What about Annette, though? Did she spot the aerial support from the ground? So near, yet so far According to Marcel, the answer to that is an emphatic yes. You see, Annette apparently noticed one of the helicopters on her first night in the wilderness. Yet as Hurley just noted, the tree coverage was so thick that she couldnt catch their attention. That mustve felt like a gut punch, right? The importance of Annettes phone Still, Annette wasnt too disheartened by that early setback. But the loss of her cell phone really made things difficult as the hours rolled on. As Marcel told Global News, She knew [the search parties] were out there. She had no phone on her. She had no way of telling the time. She doesnt have a watch; she just uses her phone. Im spending another night out here Yesterday just before [Annette] was found, she didnt know what time it was, Marcel said. [And] her thoughts were, Im spending another night out here. She had been positive at that point, [but] that was really starting to crush her. You can hardly blame her for that! Wed be much the same. Getting the dogs home Thankfully for Annette and the three dogs, though, that didnt happen. Sticking with the canines, they also made it out of the woods unscathed, as their relieved families embraced them. We cant forget about the torment those folks went through during this ordeal. Imagine losing a pet in that manner! Unbridled praise Anyway, off the back of the rescue, Marcel was desperate to hail the work of the search parties as well. Annettes husband said, They would drop anything to give me an update, show me what was going on. Communications were great. The people in the field, its obvious you love what you do. Support them These people are doing this on their own time, Marcel added. Theyre leaving their job, what they get paid to do to pay their mortgage, to come out and help people who need their help. Support them, they deserve it, and thank you. The mayor of Coquitlam praised those guys in a heartfelt social media message too. This could happen to anyone So were left with just one question now: what happened to Annette once she recovered? Well, the dog walker had a book written about her ordeal in 2018, titled Three Dog Nights: The Search and Rescue of Annette Poitras. Speaking after its release, she told Canadian newspaper Tri-City News, This could happen to anyone. Many people can learn from my experience and be better prepared in the back country. 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. Valencia Streets bike lanes will remain in the center of the San Francisco corridor for now, with changes unlikely to happen this year. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Valencia Streets controversial center-running bikeway will remain in place likely through the rest of 2024, and the citys transportation board will decide by the end of this year whether to pivot the boulevards bicycle lane to the side of the street. The rough timeline approved Tuesday by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agencys Board of Directors ensures the likelihood that no major changes will come to Valencia Street, home to the citys first-ever center bike lane, until at least next year. The Valencia center bikeway that runs between 15th and 23rd streets has stirred much divisiveness among the corridors cyclists, with some saying its made biking safer and others arguing that it has done the opposite. A group of Valencia merchants, meanwhile, is threatening to sue the city, claiming the center bikeway and the attendant reduction in parking spaces has caused disastrous financial impact to their businesses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ongoing criticism of the center bikeway prompted the transportation agency to announce last month that it was considering a major change to side-running lanes. The SFMTA board didnt set a firm date on when it would decide whether to keep the center lanes or switch to a side-running configuration, only that the decision would come before the end of the year. The board also wont vote until after the transportation agency publishes more data on how the project is faring, as it did Tuesday for the first three months of the pilot program. Despite criticism, the city maintains that the center bicycle lanes on Valencia Street have reduced bicycling accidents on the San Francisco corridor. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle If board directors decide to change course on Valencia, it will take about seven months after their vote a timeline that consists of engineering, public feedback and construction for major street changes to take effect, according to agency officials. SFMTA officials hoped the center bikeway would be the solution to make biking safer on vibrant Valencia Street the citys most important north-south bike route that connects to Market Street. The Mission District corridor saw an average of two crashes per month when bike lanes were sandwiched between side parking spaces and parklets and the traffic. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Most of those crashes involved cyclists getting hit or doored by vehicles, and agency officials are adamant that they wont go back to that setup. Despite vocal criticism, the agency says the center bikeway has made it safer to bike on Valencia because it removed conflict points with cars. Some cyclists spoke out in favor of the current design at Tuesdays meeting. The corridor, though, saw 11 crashes between cyclists and cars between August and October, according to a three-month evaluation of the center bikeway. The center lane also led to a 26% drop in car volume on Valencia, with negligible changes in cyclist and pedestrian activity. SFMTA Director Jeffrey Tumlin said that the agency is working on two simultaneous Valencia projects continuing to refine and iterate on the current design, and coming up with a side-running design for the board to consider. Side-running lanes could take two different shapes, depending on where parklets on Valencia are positioned. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One concept features floating parklets like the bike lanes on Oaklands Telegraph Avenue with bike lanes snaking inward toward the sidewalk. Another design could keep parklets curbside with bike lanes snaking around them. Both concepts would likely result in fewer parking spaces compared with the center bikeway design. Tumlin said agency staff are currently getting feedback from individual merchants. Even if the center bikeway stays, it might not be the last major change to the popular corridor. The transportation agency is also studying a long-term configuration for the Valencia corridor, which could mean taking cars completely off the street or converting it to one-way traffic for vehicles. However, those ambitious changes, which would likely be more contentious than the center bikeway, are at least five years from becoming reality, according to agency officials. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Sunshine and a few clouds. High 76F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 50F. Winds light and variable. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS. Azeri national Kamil Zeynalli, who has been arrested by Russian police in Moscow, is wanted by Armenia, police confirmed to Armenpress. Zeynalli is on Armenias interstate wanted list, Ministry of Internal Affairs spokesperson Narek Sargsyan told Armenpress. He did not elaborate. The mentioned individual is on the interstate wanted list on a murder charge, he said. Zeynalli, who is apparently a former Azeri serviceman, claimed on social media that Russian police told him that he has been arrested pursuant to an international arrest warrant issued by Armenia. The Azeri national is scheduled to make a court appearance in Moscow on February 21, according to the reports. Zeynalli claims that he could be extradited to Armenia. He was placed under arrest at the Domodedovo airport and then booked at a police station. The general prosecution of Armenia, however, told Armenpress that they dont have any official information about Zeynallis arrest in Moscow. According to unconfirmed media reports, Kamil Zeynalli is suspected of war crimes committed during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war when he fought from the Azeri side against Armenian forces, particularly of killing and beheading an elderly civilian hostage. According to the media reports Zeynalli is a recipient of Azeri medals for his military service. According to the reports, the man is now a 'blogger' and a fitness trainer. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and French President Emmanuel Macron made statements for media representatives before the meeting at the Elysee Palace. According to the readout issued by the Prime Ministers office, the French President said in his speech. "Mr. Prime Minister, Ladies and Gentlemen Ministers, Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank dear Nikol for being in Paris on this important day. February 21 is the day when Missak Manouchian and his comrades of the resistance movement were killed for the freedom of France, and the motherland fully recognized them and they will rest in the Pantheon. Missak Manouchian and his wife Melinee will rest in the Pantheon, where France enshrines its great people. It is also the gratitude of France for the struggle for freedom. Your presence today is very important to all of us. I once again want to tell you, to reiterate, that you can count on France's support for Armenia, its independence, territorial integrity, democratic process and peaceful aspirations. I would also like to salute, dear Nikol, your personal courage and determination to move forward on this path. Armenia's membership in the International Criminal Court is also a shining example of this commitment. At this moment, as we commemorate Missak and Melinee Manouchians, war crimes continue on the continent of Europe, and the fight for freedom, more than ever, requires a fight against impunity. During our meeting we will be able to talk about the discussions aimed at the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The recent incidents in Syunik prove that the danger of escalation remains real. France regrets that an Azerbaijani was wounded as a result of the shooting on February 12, which was also accepted by the Armenian leadership with full transparency, but France expresses regret for the disproportionate retaliatory strike by Azerbaijan, as a result of which the Armenian side suffered four deaths and one wounded. France will continue to support efforts towards a just and lasting peace. We are convinced that this can only be achieved by respecting international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders. At the Prague meeting in 2022, you and Aliyev reaffirmed your commitment to the Alma-Ata Declaration, and it is necessary for Azerbaijan to dispel ambiguities. I think it is more than necessary for Azerbaijan to dispel any ambiguity regarding the territorial integrity of Armenia, as far as maps are concerned, then conscientious work should be done for border delimitation and demarcation, which will serve as a basis for the withdrawal of forces from both sides of the border. We also call for the implementation of the decision of the International Court of Justice of November 17, 2023. According to this decision, Azerbaijan must ensure that persons who have left Nagorno-Karabakh since September 19, 2023 and who wish to return can do so safely, unhindered and quickly. We want the South Caucasus to be a region of peace, integration and cooperation, and it is necessary for communication channels to be factors assisting integration and not division. I have visited Central Asia and I want communication links between Central Asia, the South Caucasus and the European Union to develop. And I welcome your "Crossroads of Peace" initiative in this shared ambition. We will also discuss issues aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation. France will continue to support infrastructure development in Armenia with the participation of our companies. We will also continue to develop cooperation in the field of defense. France has given its consent for the delivery of defense military equipment. And in this area France will continue in the spirit of responsibility, not wanting any escalation. France also continues its humanitarian commitment to the refugees of Nagorno-Karabakh, providing 29 million euros in aid in 2023. France will continue to resolutely support the development of relations between the European Union and Armenia. Here, too, we are making progress in favor of sovereignty and our common strategic interests. The observation mission of the European Union has been strengthened. It aims to contribute to stability, delivering unbiased information to the international community and the security of vulnerable populations in military contact zones. Armenia should also take advantage of the European instruments of peace. The European Union and Armenia want a timetable for a new partnership. These are the few aspects I wished to remind. And you know that beyond words, France stands by Armenia because justice, freedom and international law are important to us. Once again, I want to salute the courage and on the occasion of this special day, I reaffirm France's support to Armenia and all Armenians." In turn, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan noted. "Thank you, honorable Mr. President, dear Emmanuel. First of all, I want to thank you for today's invitation and for making me and the delegation of the Republic of Armenia a participant in this truly historic and emotional event. Today we will be present at the ceremony of enshrining the remains of one of the heroes of the French Resistance, our compatriot Missak Manouchian, in the Pantheon of the greatest French citizens, and it is a great honor for us to be present at today's event and ceremony. I think today's event also shows the depth of existing relations between our countries and peoples, because they are not only political, economic, human, cultural ties, but I think we are connected by a deep, emotional connection. And I also want to thank you for the decision you made, because, indeed, this once again emphasizes not only our friendship and the depth of our relations, but is also a unique and special appreciation to the Armenians who contributed to the accomplishment of France, which is an honor and a great pride for us. I want to express my gratitude for highlighting that contribution. With your permission, I should also emphasize that this year we have a similar event with a very deep context. This year is the 100th anniversary of Charles Aznavour, and I hope that in September in Yerevan we will participate together in the gala concert dedicated to Aznavour's 100th anniversary. And I want, Mr. President, to emphasize once again my invitation to you to visit the Republic of Armenia on a state visit. I should also note that the relations between Armenia and France are at an exceptional dynamic stage. And here, of course, you have a special personal role, Mr. President, and I want to emphasize that, and thank you for your approach to the development and deepening of our relations. Our ties are deepening in the field of economy, our ties are deepening politically. And I must also emphasize your contribution to creating a favorable environment around Armenia. You mentioned the quadrilateral meeting in Prague on October 6, 2022, where, in fact, cornerstone principles of regional peace and stability were highlighted. I am sure that if these principles are adhered to, peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is indeed achievable and realistic. And once again I emphasize our committment to the agreements reached. Mr. President, I specially want to thank you for your support in the resilience of Armenia. You emphasized that in the field of defense, in fact, we have established new relations, which is essential for ensuring security and stability in the region. In that regard, it is known that there are criticisms, and I want to emphasize that the Republic of Armenia, as I said, recognizes the territorial integrity of all its neighbors. And in this sense, the development of the defense capabilities of the Republic of Armenia cannot cause worries for anyone, because our only task is to form the right balance in the region and only to protect the legitimate, sovereign, internationally recognized territory, borders, territorial integrity, and independence of the Republic of Armenia and increasing the resilience of our country. I also want to to express my special thanks to you for your support to the democratic reforms of Armenia. In this context, we are indeed entering a new dynamic phase in our relations with the European Union. And here I must emphasize the support of France and personally you, because the European Union is also of key importance for the implementation of democratic reforms and development of institutional capacities of our country. Of course, today I will also have the opportunity to share with you thoughts about our region and the international situation. The last time we had a discussion was in Granada, and during this time some developments have taken place. Also, I would like to share some information with you about the meeting and other discussions that took place in Munich a few days ago. And of course, there are many issues on our agenda and, fortunately, our agenda of bilateral relations and our cooperation on international platforms is very positive, very extensive. And it is important to have this opportunity here, although we do not forget that our main mission today is to honor the memory of all the heroes who sacrificed their lives and contributed to the independence and statehood of France. Thank you". Next, the meeting of the Prime Minister of Armenia and the French President took place, during which the consistent development and strengthening of multi-sectoral cooperation between Armenia and France, the processes taking place in the South Caucasus region, and other topics of mutual interest were discussed. This move comes amidst a dispute over outstanding tax dues totaling Rs 115 crore New Delhi: The Congress took legal action by approaching the Income-Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) following the recovery of Rs 65 crore from the account of the Indian National Congress (INC) by the Income-Tax Department. This move comes amidst a dispute over outstanding tax dues totaling Rs 115 crore. On Tuesday, the Income-Tax Department recovered Rs 65 crore from the Congress account, which it claimed was part of the total outstanding tax dues. Party treasurer Ajay Maken expressed concern over the situation, emphasising the need for checks and balances to prevent unchecked actions by probe agencies. He reiterated the Congress's trust in the judiciary. Taking to Twitter, Maken detailed the developments, stating, "Yesterday, the Income-Tax Department mandated banks to transfer over 65 crore from @INCIndia, IYC, and NSUI accounts to the government." He questioned the fairness of the demand, highlighting the discrepancy in treatment compared to other political parties. The Congress has contested the Income-Tax department's claim of Rs 210 crore, arguing that discrepancies in previous tax returns have been challenged and that the matter is still sub judice. Despite this, the tax authorities proceeded with what the party deems as "undemocratic action" by withdrawing funds from their accounts. Maken further revealed that a lien of Rs 115 crore has been placed on the party's accounts by the tribunal, allowing the Congress to spend over and above that amount. Party leader Vivek Tankha, representing the Congress before the tribunal, emphasised the potential impact on the party's participation in upcoming elections if the accounts remain frozen. The ongoing proceedings before the ITAT signal a tense standoff between the Congress and the Income Tax authorities, with the hearing set to continue on Wednesday as the party seeks resolution to the dispute. Both nations agree to double trade by 2030 New Delhi: After talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis here on Wednesday that focused on all aspects of strategic ties in the economic, political and security spheres, the two countries decided to link their defence industries and agreed to continue with the goal of doubling trade by 2030. They also decided to soon sign a migration and mobility agreement that will also enable young Indian professionals to work in Greece. Both leaders discussed cooperation in several areas, including defence and maritime security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, shipping, connectivity, agriculture, pharma, technology, innovation, medical devices, skill development, renewable energy, infrastructure and space. Both countries also agreed to work out an action plan to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties that falls next year. In his remarks, Mr Modi hailed the two and half millennia-old ties between two great and ancient civilisations and commended Greeces decision both to join the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative and participate in the India-Middle East-Europe (MEC) connectivity project. The Greek PM hailed the ties between the worlds oldest democracy and the worlds largest democracy, and described his country as Indias gateway to Europe. Expressing his eagerness to learn from the Indian miracle in information technology, the Greek PM hailed Mr Modi as a visionary, principled leader and true friend. Foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra said later at a special MEA briefing that Mr Modi held talks both at the delegation level as well as restricted format with the Greek PM, which also included how Greece would participate in the IMEC connectivity corridor, including through ports and shipping that would include enabling provisions signed both between governments and in the private sector. The foreign secretary also made it clear in response to a query that the alignment of the IMEC had not changed despite the Gaza conflict. He also said the national security advisers of the two countries met (recently) and discussed security cooperation and the interests of the two nations in the Eastern Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions. The foreign secretary said Mr Modi and the Greek PM at their talks had discussed the situation in the Red Sea and the impact on shipping lanes as well as how these challenges in shipping can be mitigated. In his remarks, Mr Modi said the Greek PMs visit shows the strengthening of bilateral ties, elevated to a strategic partnership last year. He said that apart from bilateral ties, they had also discussed regional and global issues and flagged dialogue and diplomacy as the way to resolve conflicts raging in the world today. Mr Modi also said both countries had discussed the menace of terrorism. The Greek PM, in his remarks, said the two leaders had also discussed issues such as the Ukraine conflict, climate change and energy security. It is an embarrassing fact that there is no credible Opposition to the Narendra Modi government and the ruling BJP-NDA even after it has been in power for 10 years. There is no serious challenge from the political Opposition even after Mr Modi has been in office for a decade. The farmers from Punjab, who had protested in 2020-21 and forced the government to withdraw three controversial laws after a year-long agitation, are once again challenging the government in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections. The farmers stand on their own, and no party is able to take up their cause. They have refused to be co-opted by the Opposition parties. Yet, they are no dummy Opposition. The BJP-NDA government is in an embarrassing situation at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already declared victory even before the election dates are announced, and he is backed to the hilt by his Bharatiya Janata Party. But the farmers from Punjab have shown that it possible to put the undisputed leader of the country in the dock. There is the possibility of cynics saying that the farmers are putting up a weak opposition to the Modi government because when it comes to voting, they are not willing to vote against Mr Modi and the BJP. This could be clearly seen in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections of 2022, when the discontented farmers of western Uttar Pradesh meekly voted for the BJP. The government, in a tactical retreat, had withdrawn the three farm bills in November 2021, in the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. In Punjab, the vote went for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), but the BJP was not a player to reckon with in the state. How will the Delhi Chalo agitation of the farmers play out this time? Will the Modi government strike a compromise with the agitating farmers to ensure victory in the elections? The farmers protest is now confined to Punjab. The Haryana and western UP farmers said they are watching the situation, and they would take a decision on joining the protests. That will make the situation embarrassing for the Prime Minister and the BJP. The much-vaunted Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, which guarantees Rs 6,000 per year, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, the two major schemes for the farming sector, have failed to protect the government from the farmers protests. It only shows that the cosmetic welfare measures have not helped the farmers much. The other question that crops up is whether the demands of the Punjab farmers, who are considered to be the agricultural elite of the country because of their record foodgrain output, are born out of a pressing grievance or is it a political show of farmers power. Farmers from other parts of the country are comparatively poor, and they have enough reasons to demand things from the government, but they remain quiet, and they even vote for Mr Modi and the BJP. The governments claim that it has done more than enough for farmers through various welfare measures, apart from the Minimum Support Price (MSP) it offers, is as questionable as everything else that it claims to have done. It is not that the Punjab farmers are not beneficiaries of the Modi governments welfare measures. And it is not the case that they are so greedy that they want more of the goodies that the government is offering. There is some logic to their demands, though it is not necessary to concede that government should accept all of them because there are limitations even for a party with a huge majority that the BJP has in the outgoing Lok Sabha. The negotiations between the farmers leader and the governments ministerial team is on a collision course, with the farmers refusing the governments offer of ensuring MSP for five crops, including the three dals, tuwar or toor, urad, moong, maize and cotton. The farmers representative bodies, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KSM), are not willing to compromise on their demand for a legally guaranteed MSP for 23 crops. Both the experts and the government have argued that MSP cannot be guaranteed for all the 23 crops because it would mean the government would have to allocate Rs 11 lakh crores for MSP alone. The SKM has argued that legally guaranteed MSP does not mean that the government will have to procure them, but that this ensure that private sector players who buy the foodgrains in the market cannot buy it at a cheaper price than the prescribed MSP. It is a reasonable claim, but the private sector buyers of foodgrains do not find it attractive to pay the MSP. How will the Narendra Modi government wriggle its way out this time? In 2021, all that needed to be done was to withdraw the three farm bills. This time around there is no buffer. The government will have to accept the farmers demands or persuade them to back off. The farmers are not willing to step back. The farmers can spoil the party for the Prime Minister and the BJP because they have already proclaimed their victory even before the elections date is announced. The farmers have managed to keep all political parties out of the protests. The BJP cannot claim that the Opposition is playing with the lives and livelihoods of the farmers for political gain. There is no political factor in the collision between the farmers and the government. Will the farmers vote against the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections if there is no resolution of the issues that have been raised. The government is indeed in a tight corner. They cannot agree to the farmers demands, nor can they turn their back on them. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is acutely aware of the threat the protests pose to his image. Will he manage to come up with a magic formula that would satisfy the farmers and without the government giving away too much? This is a classical political tussle between two clearly-defined groups: the ruling party on one side and the farmers on another. If the farmers consolidate as a bloc that is arrayed against the government, it should indirectly help the Opposition parties. When there has been a general lament that that there is no real opposition to the government, the farmers have now walked into that vacant space. Swedens Crown Princess Victoria, center, and Prince Daniel meet with Mayor London Breed on a balcony at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle Tuesdays heavy afternoon rain in San Francisco let up just in time for the blue-and-yellow flag of Sweden to be raised on the Mayors Balcony, as Crown Princess Victoria exited a Volvo and entered City Hall for the purpose of introducing the first official representation of her nation in California in 17 years. That representation came in the form of the grand opening of a Swedish Consulate General office in a Market Street tower. The office replaces a smaller, homier consulate on Sansome Street that was presided over by an honorary consul, a local and usually volunteer position. In order for a consulate to become official it must be presided over by a career diplomat, newly-appointed Anna Lekvall, who arrived with the Crown Princess and her husband, Prince Daniel. Princess Victoria, 46, was not available for comment during a reception, held appropriately in the International Room. But Lekvall, who is 55 and spent part of her childhood in Los Angeles, said, We have so much in common, San Francisco and Sweden. We used to have a presence in California and we miss the link. We share a lot of values and we want to work together. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Princess Victoria is the heir apparent as the eldest child of King Carl XVI Gustaf. If she succeeds her father to the throne, she will be the fourth Queen of Sweden and the first since 1720. Swedens Crown Princess Victoria, center, and Prince Daniel meet Mayor London Breed outside City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle Princess Victoria is the first royal figure to visit San Francisco since Queen Maxima of the Netherlands came in 2022, and the first that Chief of Protocol Maryam Muduroglu has met since she succeeded the late Charlotte Shultz in the job. Im very excited to meet her Royal Highness, said Muduroglu, who had been briefed that she did not have to curtsy upon doing so. She noted that San Francisco has 70 foreign consulates but had had only 40 overseen by a consul general. Sweden makes it 41. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Anytime we place San Francisco on the world stage we elevate our city and the partnerships we have with other countries, Muduroglu said. Swedens Crown Princess Victoria, center, and Prince Daniel, left, pause for a photograph together with Mayor London Breed outside City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle The Swedish entourage included Urban Ahlin, Swedish ambassador to the United States, Erik Ramanathan, United States ambassador to Sweden, Lekvall, the new Swedish consul general in San Francisco, and Barbro Osher, former honorary consul of Sweden. As a warm-up, the royal couple was in Sacramento on Tuesday morning to sign a renewed climate partnership between California and Sweden, as guests of Gov. Gavin Newsom and first partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. According to the Daily Mail, which follows royals, the couple visited a Swedish school on Monday and then the Golden Gate Bridge, after a quick change of attire that was documented in detail: Victoria perfectly matched her accessories with the tones of her silk, knee-length Saloni skirt opting for some orange suede heels and a matching clutch bag. The mother of two styled her long brown hair into a low bun and completed her look with a pair of orange dangly earrings. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria examines flowers at City Hall after meeting with Mayor London Breed in San Francisco on Tuesday. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle On Tuesday, Princess Victoria wore red but it should be noted that Mayor London Breed was there to greet her at the top of the City Hall steps in the precise blue color of the Swedish flag. I wore the blue to show the love for our visiting dignitaries, Breed said, noting that the City Hall dome would be lighted in the same color. After entering City Hall, the group headed to the rotunda with plans to climb the grand staircase to the mayors office. But it was slick so they reversed order and headed for the elevator. As it opened, two wedding parties piled out, oblivious that they were in the presence of royalty. by Steve Suwannarat The Thai government wants to avoid a diplomatic row with Myanmars military regime. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently announced that illegal migrants will be dealt with in accordance with the law, a possible sign of coming expulsions and pushback if migratory flows pick up. Bangkok (AsiaNews) The Thai government is concerned about the flow of Myanmar nationals following the decision by Myanmars ruling military junta to enforce the countrys conscription law for men aged 18 to 35 and women aged 18 to 27 as of 1 April. As the deadline approaches, the exodus of people from Myanmar is likely to increase, and Thailand is already grappling with hard choices regarding people fleeing its neighbours civil war. Some estimate that more than two million people might come across the more porous border with Thailand, in the eastern part of the country, but the flows may also pick up elsewhere in the coming months. Faced with the prospect of a wave of young people fleeing Myanmars military, Thai authorities are imposing greater selectivity and quotas for work visas, fearful that many applicants might become fugitives from their country. As a preventive measure, and to avoid a diplomatic row, the two countries have signed an agreement to block the flow of Myanmar workers to Thailand. The daily flow into Thailand of some 700-800 Myanmar migrants has been interrupted, making the situation even more complicated for many families who, after the coup of 1 February 2021, found themselves in economic difficulty. But these decisions are also a direct consequence of a substantial inability of regional powers and organisations to mediate between the parties in Myanmars internal conflict. In the past, Thailand was relatively liberal with respect to migrants, but it has been increasingly cracking down recently, relying on the fact that it is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees. This has rekindled domestic discussions about the best response to humanitarian crises. Some fear that as time goes by and flows rise, the Thai government might start expelling people. This appears to be the orientation taken by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin who a few days ago stated that illegal migrants will be dealt with through the law, while raids against migrants will continue in the regions near the Myanmar border. by Nirmala Carvalho The courts ruling states that adoption is not a fundamental right under Article 21 of the constitution nor do prospective parents have a right to choose the child. Parents with two biological children cannot apply for normal children. About 98 per cent of children at home run by the Sisters of Charity have special needs, nun says. Delhi (AsiaNews) The right to adopt a child is not a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution and would-be adoptive parents cannot claim the right to choose who they want to adopt, the Delhi High Court (DHC) ruled recently. The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) chose this policy to ensure that children with special needs are adopted, DHC Justice Subramonium Prasad said. According to CARA, which regulates the adoption process, adoptive parents must register directly under a single national waiting list drawn up by CARA itself. The latter also maintains a national list of available children, and prospective parents whose backgrounds have been approved can be matched with a child at any agency across the country. The DHC was called to settle a dispute over the right to adopt of parents who already have two children, regardless of the date of registration. According to the court, the couple in question could not adopt a normal child under the Adoption Regulations, 2022, but could only opt for a child with special needs. Stressing that adoption is not a basic right and that there is no longer a choice, the court upheld the principle that the entire process operates primarily for the well-being of the children, not of the adult couples who wish to adopt. The court also noted that the waiting list is long, and many childless or single-child couples wish to welcome another child. In addition, the aim of the regulations is to encourage the adoption of children with special needs and favour a "balanced approach" that meets the actual needs of children. Several parents with two biological children who want a third child have filed a petition to adopt. During the pendency of their applications, the new adoption rules were approved in 2022, replacing the Adoption Regulations, 2017. Now couples with two or more children can only opt for hard-to-place children or children with special needs, unless they are relatives or stepchildren. Speaking to AsiaNews, a member of the Missionaries of Charity of Mother Teresa praised the decision, which put to a stop practises that excluded or relegated the most unfortunate to the margins. In my many, many years as a Missionary of Charity Sister, there have been very few requests for special needs children," she said, although most of our children, 98 per cent, are special needs children. In Mumbai, the Childrens Home (Shishu Bhavan) run by the Missionaries of Mother Teresa has 104 children with special needs under the age of 18, some of whom are HIV-positive, with cerebral palsy, mentally or physically challenged. Going by the nickname Plato, he posted in November an hour-and-17-minute video on YouTube titled "Urumqi Middle Road," named after the street where protesters gathered. The events in the video began spontaneously, but soon turned into a wider protest movement against the Chinese government. Beijing (AsiaNews) The director who produced a documentary on white paper protests in Shanghai was arrested on 5 January for provoking trouble" and taken to the Prosecutor's Office last Sunday. Going by the nickname of Plato, he uploaded an hour-and-17-minute video on YouTube in November last year, on the first anniversary of the demonstrations, titled "Urumqi Middle Road", named after the street in Shanghai where protesters gathered. The video documents the course of the protests, which was sparked by an incident in the city of Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang autonomous region. On 24 November 2022, a fire broke out in a building, but people inside were not allowed to escape because of the "zero covid" policy still in force, causing the death of at least 10 people. Protests broke out shortly after, morphing into a wider movement against the Chinese regime. In one case, a man called Peng Lifa (who went missing thereafter) displayed a series of banners critical of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Plato said he saw events firsthand in Shanghai on 26 November 2026. This is the first time I've participated in a political event in China," he added. His video, which has been censored in China, contains "personal content shot that day" and footage shot before and after the protests, to show how Beijing's crackdown has left people increasingly resentful. The director also sought, through the film, to document my personal experience and feelings during the protest" as well as understand the dynamics of internal conflicts in China. The answer is clear to everyone," he explained; the more the government misleads, forgets and blocks, the more we have to speak out, remind, and remember. by Santosh Digal According to UNICEF Philippines, 95 children die every day from malnutrition, while 27 out of 1,000 never reach the age of five. Reversing course is a huge undertaking that also starts with the Fast to Feed campaign organised by the Philippine Church to provide a meal to malnourished children during Lent via Pondo ng Pinoy. Manila (AsiaNews) Several Philippine dioceses have started the "Fast to Feed" campaign during Lent to help hungry and malnourished children with the Pondo ng Pinoy, an NGO located at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila. Created by Card Gaudencio Borbon Rosales, former archbishop of Manila, Pondo ng Pinoy", which literally means funds for Filipinos", raises money for the Catholic Church to be used in its mission of evangelisation and against child poverty. Pondo ng Pinoys aim is to fight poverty and nurture a culture of solidarity and help others through a donation of as little as 25 centavos a day. Feeding a hungry child requires only 15.00 (US$ 0.27) per day. People who fast during Lent can donate the money they save to feed the countrys malnourished children. Peoples sacrifice today will sow the seeds of hope and nourishment for a brighter tomorrow, says Bishop Gerardo Alimane Alminaza of San Carlos. This is to express our love for God through our love of neighbour, he added. Proceeds will also be used to provide food support to malnourished and pregnant women. According to a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted in mid-2023, at least 10.4 per cent of Philippine households ran out of food at least once in the previous three months. In addition, according to data from UNICEF[*] Philippines, 95 Philippine children die every day from malnutrition while 27 out of 1,000 children do not survive beyond the age of five. In the Philippines, one child in three is underweight or stunted from lack of food; this entails physical and mental development, and makes children more prone to illness and missing school. According to the World Bank, stunting in the first 1,000 days is associated with poorer performance in school." The Philippines ranks seventh in the world among nations in East Asia and the Pacific region for the number of stunted children. For its part, to effectively address the dual problem of hunger and malnutrition, the Philippine Congress passed a law in 2018 Republic Act 11148, or First 1,000 Days Law aimed at supporting children in their first 1,000 days, but reversing course is a huge undertaking that needs everyone's effort, like the Philippine Church's solidarity project "Fast to Feed campaign through Pondo ng Pinoy. [*] United Nations Children's Fund. 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. This may imply that there is scope for long wars in the Subcontinent as well which only time will tell. by Rahul K Bhonsle War historians seem to be reviewing possibility of a return to a phase of long wars. This comes as the War in Ukraine which Russia continues to call as Special Military Operation will enter the third year this month. There are expectations that fighting may spill over to 2025 given the hurting stalemate prevailing due to organisational, operational and logistics limitations preventing ascendancy by the adversaries. Railway lines in eastern Ukraine have been destroyed in the fighting While it is believed that Russia has mustered resources for launching a major offensive this year, will the Russian Armed Forces be able to achieve the objectives set for them by President Vladimir Putin remains to be seen as these are far too expansive to be realised in the near term. Even though there is a turmoil in the Ukrainian command but determination of Kyiv to sustain the war despite an increasingly limited support evident from the US going ahead implies that Ukrainian collapse is unlikely in 2024. There are concerns that an imminent change in the US Presidency if it comes about in favour of Mr Donald Trump may lead to depletion of resource grant to Ukraine. Yet there is a greater determination in Europe to support Kyiv with German Chancellor Olaf Schulz leading the way. NATO is also preparing to deter if not fight an escalation by Russia in the case of debility or fall of Ukraine with the ongoing Exercise Steadfast Defender 2024. The next in line is believed to be former Soviet Republics who are presently NATO members with the alliance having expanded to include Finland and Sweden now, a possibility dismissed by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as absurd. The overall fear is the possibility of a long war in Europe if not also in West Asia [Middle East] as the superior fire and military power of Israel has not been able to achieve the goals of total elimination of the Hamas in the last five months or so. How long the conflict will extend is unclear but the goals set for success of Israels Operation Swords of Iron indicate that this is not likely to be a short haul. The main indicator of long war is ability of the belligerents to wage the same in terms of international support particularly in the UN Security Council implying that either side is either a permanent member with veto powers as Russia or is a close ally of one as Israel of the United States. The other factor is resources. Russia has the military industrial complex and manpower which from the outset indicate the possibility of waging a long war. Ukraine supported by the West too has the same except for perhaps as large a manpower pool. In similar vein, Israel supported by the United States can continue with the war determined in period by a hawkish war cabinet with the objective of overcoming the ignominy imposed by Hamas on October 7. In other hotspots say the Korean Peninsula or Taiwan possibly similar circumstances could be obtained and wars in case these do break out may extend. On the other hand, in the context of say India, given recognition of resource constraint of a developing country with just 13% plus spared for the armed forces in the last five years government expenditure though the defence budget figures in the top five in the World, sustaining a war has definite costs. Yet it appears that the No War No Peace posture also called as faceoffs with China and Pakistan on the Line of Actual Control [LAC] and Line of Control [LoC] respectively indicates that the two sides are willing to enforce their writ for territorial control and enforcing sovereignty. While these are logistically expensive in terms of fuel, special clothing, rations and so on, the pressure on ammunition and personnel casualties is limited thus cannot in classic terms be called a long war. Yet independent Indias first war in 1947-48 extended over 15 months at a time when both nations India and Pakistan had just discarded the yoke of British rule and could not have sustained the fighting economically. In contrast the 1962 India China War, the 1965 India Pakistan War and the 1971 War of Liberation of Bangladesh were relatively short. The last named 1971 war remained brief due to several factors from selection of the time to innovative military strategy. This may imply that there is scope for long wars in the Subcontinent as well which only time will tell. Importantly learning from lessons of the War in Ukraine and Gaza, provisioning for these needs to be made given the extensive material and human resources that have been expended by each side in these. India may not lack manpower with the large youth which motivated to serve on the frontline witness the surge for recruitment for the Agnipath scheme despite the same only assuring short term employment for three fourths of those who join. As per Oryx the Dutch open-source intelligence defence and warfare research group which has documented losses in the War in Ukraine for both sides, Russia lost 14483 numbers of destroyed vehicles and equipment of which photo or videographic evidence is available of which destroyed were 10124, damaged 664, abandoned: 760 and captured: 2935. Comparatively losses of Ukraine are recorded at 5193, of which: destroyed: 3598, damaged: 433, abandoned: 197, captured: 965. These figures were accessed on February 21. In terms of use of artillery which has been extensive in the War in Ukraine, there are varied estimates from 5000 rounds per day to 20,000 the latter mostly by the Russian Army. This would imply a huge requirement of build of stocks of munitions for the guns. On the record, for the War in Gaza, as per Breaking Defence, Israeli Air Force attacked 31,000 targets since the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas including the Northern front against the Hezbollah. This comes to 228 targets struck every day and in each target multiple rounds of munitions including bombs and missiles are likely to have been used. Thus, the requirement of munitions is huge. Artillery which was also extensively used are not included in these figures thus adding to the requirement of munitions. As per a report in the Times of India, quoting the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), China based on the lessons from the War in Ukraine is preparing for a protracted war in the Indo Pacific. Chinese tenacity in sustaining the standoff in Ladakh on the Line of Actual Control which enters the fifth year in May this year is a testimony of willingness to endure a long No War No Peace posture. With experience from Ukraine, China could well be prepared for a long war as well. In recent years, India has reduced the scale of war wastage reserves [WWR] which is a measure for stocking of munitions and stores for conflict to 10 days (I) WWR from 40 days. In 1999, it was brought down to 20 days and further reduced to 10 days. Post the May 2020 standoff it is believed that these stocks have now been increased to 20 Days. Clearly an overall review will have to be carried out by the military to be prepared for a protracted collusive war with China and Pakistan. Brigadier (Retired) Rahul K Bhonsle, MSc, MPhil, MBA is an Indian army military veteran with 30 years active field experience in counter militancy and terrorism operations. He is presently Director of Sasia Security-Risks.com, a South Asian security risk and knowledge management consultancy which specializes in future scenarios, military capacity building and conflict trends in South Asia. SUV EV kWh WLTP Dacia, a Romanian brand belonging to France's Renault Group since 1999, has come a long way since its days as a remnant of the Communist era today, even when Renault's deliveries are on a negative trend, nothing can stop Dacia's rise in sales across Europe. For example, in January 2024, the Renault Group was third across the continent but slipped a little (-2.1%) whereas Dacia rose by 7.7% compared to the same period of 2023.Of course, it's only natural Dacia has a new corporate image that makes it one of the freshest automakers in the region. It also launched the third generation of the popular Duster, and its Sandero series remains one of the best-selling nameplates across the Old Continent. We can easily project that Dacia will continue to ascension this year because, alongside the all-new crossover, they recently updated the rest of the lineup (Sandero, Logan, Stepway, Jogger) aligned to the new GSR II safety regulations and also got a ton of new features.However, there was one glaring exception the little Dacia Spring all-electric city car, a rebadged import version of the Renault City K-ZE was missing in action. No worries, the company had bigger plans for it, and now we know all the juicy details. It should become more appealing than ever, thanks mainly to its fresh exterior styling and interior upgrades it's not just cheap anymore; it's also a funky. Naturally, the design aligns with the new styling philosophy and this is the second facelift since its launch on the European markets in 2021.It also received a more powerful 65-horsepower engine last year for the Spring Extreme version, and now the city car looks more like a tiny crossover sibling of the Duster SUV rather than a regular hatchback with lots of plastic body cladding and squared wheel arches. The cabin welcomes future buyers with an all-new dashboard that finally makes everyone forget the cheap EV looked like something from the 1990s or older. There's a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch central touchscreen, cheerful colors, and redesigned details all over the place including on the steering wheel.It's also easy to notice the new gear selector, and the cockpit is now quite akin to a rugged CUV, too. Other than that, Dacia promises that its little Spring EV is "more convenient than ever, with the best loading capacity in its segment and many nifty features," retains the same "best value for money" across Europe, and is just as efficient as ever thanks to the 65-hp engine, with a fuel economy of 14.6/100 km on the mixedcycle. EV HVAC Fueled by China's continued love for traditional four-door saloon models, Cadillac's best-selling nameplate was the CT5. Even at home in America, where deliveries rose 9%, the CT5 jumped no less than 17%, and the company also registered record sales for the V-Series and Blackwing models. Of course, it also had the best Lyriq deliveries since the's launch.As such, it is no surprise that Cadillac combines the push for more EVs - Lyriq and Celestiq, plus the upcoming Escalade IQ, Optiq, and Vistiq with some additional love for the passenger car roster. After first premiering the refreshed CT5, the mid-size executive sedan was also recently updated for the 2025 model with its high-performance CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing models.The two performance sedans debuted at the Rolex 24 at Daytona race on January 27 and 28, where the 2025 CT5-V Blackwing acted as the Official Safety Car, and both will be manufactured at GM's Lansing Grand River Assembly facility in Michigan starting this summer. However, a company footnote also said the Blackwing will be available in "extremely limited" quantities.The updates include a new visage, quad trapezoidal exhaust tips, three new colors (Drift Metallic, Deep Space Metallic, Typhoon Metallic), an upgraded Carbon Fiber Package for the Blackwing, plus a massive 33-inch LED touchscreen display inside, redesignedcontrols, and more. There were no alterations to the powertrains, though, so they still feature the 360-hp twin-turbo V6 or 668 horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8.So, how do you make them stand out in a crowd? Well, if you ask the imaginative realm of digital car content creators, at least the Blackwing considered by many a Corvette Z06 with four doors could easily look even better with some widebody attire. For example, this virtual artist, better known as c_zr1 on social media, gives us CGI food for thought in the form of a widebody Blackwing that also comes with a wing snatched from the Corvette.Interestingly, this isn't a bad idea at all. Consider this. Not long ago, if you wanted a muscle sedan, the easiest option was from the Mopar department a Dodge Charger and it even came with an OEM widebody option. But the L-body Charger ceased production in December 2023, so if Cadillac were to offer these kinds of aerodynamic enhancements, it would immediately fill a niche without having to worry about any sort of competition. Also, that hypothetical crimson interior looks precisely spot on together with the light blue exterior hue, right? In November 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation opened a preliminary evaluation into complaints from 2019 model year Ford Expedition owners alleging the inadvertent deployment of the front seatbelt pretensioners. Of the 10 complaints identified at the time, one resulted in an injury. NHTSA Photo: Ford HVAC Three months after the federal watchdog started looking into this matter, the Ford Motor Company issued a safety recall for both the Explorer and its Lincoln-branded sibling. An estimated 77,574 vehicles need to be inspected, namely truck-based SUVs produced for the 2018 through 2020 model years at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville.Based on the F-150 pickup truck's frame, suspect vehicles were assembled between October 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. As per the chronology of events published on the's site, FoMoCo started investigating the inadvertent deployment of the front seatbelt pretensioners in September 2021.Back then, Ford was aware of four reports that occurred between July 2021 and September 2021 in Middle Eastern markets. Supplied by ZF, the front seatbelt retractor pretensioners were found to feature corrosion on the squib pins where the bridge wire is welded. Even if the retractor pretensioner doesn't fire correctly, CAE analysis determined that the system would meet regulatory requirements.Ford's engineers singled out two primary causal factors for the corroded squib pins, beginning with high moisture content sealed in the squibs. In December 2023, the American manufacturer reviewed a drain seal change that occurred at the start of production in 2019. More specifically, the drain seal on the right front floor may increase humidity when MAX A/C is used for extended periods of time, contributing to the corrosion.Another hypothesis is partial separation at the weld due to an undefined supplier manufacturing issue. Whatever the root cause may be, inadvertent deployment of the front seatbelt pretensioners would result in locked seatbelts that cannot be retracted or extended by the front occupants.At the moment of reporting, the Dearborn-based automaker is aware of 140 reports of inadvertent deployment (spread between 119 vehicles), of which six reports alleged unspecified injuries. You can further add to those five additional NHTSA vehicle owner questionnaires alleging injuries.Dealers have already been instructed to have the seatbelt retractors inspected for suspect production date codes. Any pretensioner assembly found to be suspect will be replaced with assemblies manufactured outside of the suspect window. Dealers will also inspect for the presence of andrain tube elbow and if not present install one at no charge to the vehicle's owner.Ford-branded envelopes will be mailed to known owners in the period between March 4 and March 8. In the meantime, 2018 to 2020 model year Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator owners can easily determine whether their sport utility vehicles are recalled or not by entering the 17-character VIN on Ford's, Lincoln's, or the agency's website. As the saying goes, it's better late than never. Smuggling in a luxury vehicle, in defiance of international sanctions, as Putin is accused of doing, is bound to take time. Photo: Aurus On Sunday, February 18, Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, took delivery of a new ride, which also happens to be a gift from Russian President Vladimir Putin. It's an Aurus Senat limo , the kind that Putin himself uses on Presidential and personal business, and in which he took Jong Un for a ride when he visited Russia last September.During a tour of the Vostochny cosmodrome, Putin invited the North Korean leader to have a look inside his Presidential limo and then hop in the back seat for a ride. According to a Kremlin spokesperson cited by The Guardian, Jong Un loved the ride, so much so that Putin considered a Senat a right gift of appreciation.As for the delay of said gift, it could be explained by the existence of international sanctions against North Korea for its nuclear weapons program. Among other things, the UN bars the import of luxury vehicles in the country, a move that Russia initially supported but is clearly not anymore.The gift is more than confirmation of the budding bromance between the two leaders: it's confirmation of their agreement and mutual support on a variety of issues, including weapons tech, which North Korea is believed to be giving Russia in its war against Ukraine. The Senat gift is also seen as confirmation that Putin is expected to visit North Korea soon.Politics aside, and whatever intent behind the gesture, the Senat will be in fine company in Jong Un's impressive fleet of cars. He's a passionate car collector with a soft spot for Mercedes-Maybachs and other luxury brands, and the Senat is designed as their equal, especially in fully loaded spec. We're assuming that that's what Putin sent over to North Korea because this is not the kind of occasion you cheap out.Dubbed a Rolls-Royce copycat, the Senat limo is made by the state-backed company Aurus, founded in 2018 with the goal of providing rides for the country's most influential and richest men, Putin included.Power comes from a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine developed with help from Porsche and an electric engine developing a total of 600 hp, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Top speed is 250 kph (155 mph), and the highest spec brings safety features that render it indestructible These features include an armored fuel tank, armored underside, ballistic body protection, and bullet-proof windows, wheels that remain functional even if all tires are punctured, an intercom system, air filtration in case of gas poisoning, and a fire extinguishing system. Supposedly, all these and many more are also found in Putin's limo(s) AMG Photo: Instagram | Vossen kW Can't tell whats new, besides that pink look that is likely a wrap? That would be the alloy set. The wheels came from Vossen , and they're called the HF-5. They're available from 19 to 24 inches in diameter, with respective widths of 8.5-12 inches, and can be finished in different hues.The Y-spoke alloys send Lambo vibes and measure 20 inches on the pictured Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. They have a black look that goes in hand with the similarly-finished components all around, come with a matching spare attached to the tailgate, and were wrapped in chunky tires that do not affect the truck's off-roading prowess.Want to know how much the alloys cost? That would be at least $699 per wheel in the 20-inch size and $100 less for the smallest offering. The largest starts at $899 per wheel. Mind you, the HF-5 is not necessarily limited to high-riders, as it can also be found on various other models, including the Audi e-tron, Tesla Model 3, Mercedes-GT, Ford Mustang, McLaren 570S, BMW M8, Acura Integra, etc.This Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 may retain its original firepower, as Vossen hasn't mentioned the engine in the social media post shared below. That means a 6.4L naturally aspirated V8. According to the official spec sheet, the engine steams out 470 horsepower (476 ps/350) and 470 pound-foot (637 Nm) of torque.The V8, which is anything but impressive when compared to the whining Hellcat-powered beasts, works in concert with four-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox. The American automaker based in Toledo, Ohio, claims that the Wrangler Rubicon 392 takes 4.6 seconds to 62 mph (100 kph), adding that the quarter-mile is a 13-second affair.Pricing for the 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 starts at $92,140. However, you may want to place an order soon if you really want one, as the company is rumored to pull the plug on it. An alleged leaked dealer document speaks about the model driving off into the sunset sometime this year, yet only after being celebrated with a special derivative that might be called the Final Edition.Only a handful of dealers will reportedly get the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition , and we have no idea how it will stand out from the crowd. It might get a few special touches inside and out while retaining the original firepower, or that's what we think anyway. Still, it could all turn out to be false, so we'd take it with a pinch of salt for now. Viral videos or stories would have you believe that a full DIY (do-it-yourself) project can be a successful one even without prior experience or any type of professional help: you just watch a bunch of YouTube videos, and you're set to finish in record time. That may be the case with some projects, but The Dragons Nest is the exception. Photo: TheDragonsNest Photo: TheDragonsNest Photo: TheDragonsNest Photo: TheDragonsNest Unlike most DIY tiny house projects that make the news, The Dragons Nest was neither a smooth nor a very short process. But itone of the most visually striking tinies you're likely to see, inspired by 19th-century Vardo wagons, packed with art and antiques, yet still very modern for the creature comforts it offers, and completely off the grid.As Carol, the owner and builder of this tiny house , says in the video interview available at the bottom of the page, The Dragons Nest might not be to everyone's liking, but that's ok. Only she has to live in it, andloves it.The Dragons Nest is a full DIY build, with Carol explaining on her own page that it had spent more than a decade in gestation even before she started seriously considering building it in 2012. Always fascinated with fairy tales (Carol prefers the old spelling of "faery"), she used to dream of living in a Castle. Then, she first came in contact with the Roma communities in Greece and Ireland and got to see their wagons.A Vardo wagon is often considered the original tiny house, with the difference that it was less into minimalism and more into artsy convenience, and was drawn by horses. Today's Roma wagons are mostly English horseboxes converted into mobile homes for multi-generational families, but they retain the same styling as the old ones.That same styling sets The Dragons Nest apart from other tiny homes. Carol built it because she had to consider alternative housing after her divorce when living in a rented home while she paid off debts became a financial burden. She downsized first in 2016, moving from a large home into a bungalow, but she'd already started looking for materials for her Vardo She bought a dual-axle commercial flat deck large equipment hauler in 2018 and, in 2019, started the build by first stripping the damaged decking and replacing it. By the time construction had to really pick up speed with the framing, the international health crisis of 2020 happened, and Carol was forced to choose between waiting it out or forging ahead on her own. The former wasn't really an option because she needed a home.So she worked on the Vardo herself, with the notable exception of having a female friend help her install two of the larger windows and the bathtub. By the time she was done, she was physically and emotionally drained, but she had the home of her dreams: 320 square feet (30 square meters) of space in a layout that suited her taste and physical condition, with just the features she needed, and the art and antiques she'd gathered over the years.Because Carol took the time to plan, The Dragons Nest is in accordance with the local building code, so when tiny houses become legal in Canada, it'll be legal, too. Now, she has it parked in Vancouver Island, on rented land where living full-time in a tiny house is in a gray legal zone.Also because she took the time to plan, The Dragons Nest has a functional yet beautiful layout , with everything on the ground floor.There's a Great Room with a lounge and dining area, the latter doubling as an office space; there's a full kitchen divided into the Bakers Cabinet (kitchen, sink, and storage hidden inside a cabinet) and Working Corner (cooker, microwave, and even more storage); there's a large bathroom with a standalone tub, a composting toilet hidden in an antique chair , and a sink that matches the chair; and there's a bedroom with a bednook and a very cozy vibe.In fact, everything about The Dragons Nest is meant to make the home feel extra cozy but with an artful spin. For example, the ceiling in the Great Room is made of pressed Victorian stainless steel plates, while the painting on the wall is Carol's own work: three dragons hatching from their eggs. Even her beekeeper's outfit is a replica of a 19th-century one, and she made it herself.Carol keeps livestock by the house as well. She has three miniature carriage horses, two goats, chickens, and bees, which live in a beehive that's painted to match the Vardo theme of the home.As much as she loves antiques and the Roma culture, Carol made sure to future-proof the home and not just in the sense that the entire build process is documented so it can become legal when Canada legalizes living in tiny houses.The Dragons Nest is fully off-grid, relying on 10 solar cells and a Titan system for electricity (4 hours of sunlight are enough to charge the battery, which gives the home a 3-day autonomy), and large water tanks that Carol has to fill up. There's a graywater pond at the back of the home, and the toilet is a composting one.The extended building period of The Dragons Nest and Carol's choice (more or less willingly) to use repurposed, recycled, or only materials she could afford, but without skimping on quality, helped to keep the budget down. This tiny home cost just $20,000, including the trailer but obviously not including Carol's work.The Dragons Nest makes for a far more inspiring tiny house tale than anything an intrepid YouTuber can come up with. An Audi driver from Massachusetts found a hell of a way to park, damaging his car and two others in the process. He squeezed between two stationary vehicles, ending up sandwiched between the two. Initial investigation shows that the driver pressed the acceleration pedal instead of braking. Video from the unusual crash at 184 Linden Street today. One person had minor injuries. Crash is under investigation. pic.twitter.com/NT8NfGZFpg Wellesley Police (@WellesleyPolice) February 19, 2024 Looking for a parking spot in the parking lot of a grocery store is quite a race. You have to scan the area in search of a space big enough for your car, as other drivers are doing the exact same thing at the exact same time.On Monday, at around 11:30Police received multiple calls informing them that a car was lodged between two others in the parking lot of a grocery store. The car had gone airborne before landing on the hood of a BMW X5, then falling between it and a Chevrolet Equinox.In his attempt to find a place where to leave his car, he did this: parked sideways, right between two cars already parked in Wellesley, Massachusetts, in a ' You cant park there, Sir !' kind of crash.The Wellesley Police shared a video from the parking lot, showing the Audi A4 driver's bizarre parking manner on former Twitter/current X. People gathered around to see the three cars in a gathering.The incident took place outside the Roche Brothers supermarket. The Audi A4 ended up between a BMW X5 and a Chevrolet Equinox. The airbags of the Audi were deployed. Squashed between the airbags and with the car leaning on one side, the driver was stuck in his car. He needed assistance from the rescue team to get out.The crash gave the fire department quite a headache as they tried to un-sandwhich the cars. To set the three vehicles free, the Wellesley Fire Department tied the wheels of the Audi while reversing the BMW X5 from underneath it. Afterward, they managed to bring the Audi with all four wheels back on the ground.The driver of the Audi suffered no visible injuries but was transported to Newton Wellesley Hospital to be evaluated. They are going to have to do a lot of explaining in their conversation with the insurance agent.Luckily, the drivers of the other two vehicles were not on board and there were no pedestrians around at the moment of the crash.The cars were towed away. The BMW X5 ended up with a crumpled hood and a broken windshield, while the kidney grille was ripped off and lying on the grass in front of the car. Both the BMW and the Chevrolet suffered serious damage on the side.The incident is under investigation by Wellesley Police Officers. Those who saw the incident claim that it might be a case of pedal confusion. 21 February 2024 15:44 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more I remembered the saying "Azerbaijan's place is east" mentioned by the famous Azerbaijani writer of Jewish origin, Lev Simbaum (Kurban Said), in his work "Ali and Nino" a hundred years ago. In his addendum, he said that we should not lean towards the west but stay in the east. Even after the last anti-terrorist operation, PACE also showed who or what it was by tearing its mask. In the words of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, we saw that there is no one waiting for us in the EU. Therefore, we should not hurry to Europe anymore. We should return to our roots. Our roots are in Central Asia, we need to strengthen our relations with the states located there, especially among the Turkic States. What do the Central Asian states offer us? The Central Asian states do not give way to the European Union today. However, the population of the countries in the European Union is 448,387,873, with a GDP of nineteen trillion. The population of the states in the Turkic Council is approximately one hundred and fifty-seven million, with a GDP of two trillion. Let's take a look at the economy and GDP of the countries included in the Turkic states. Recently, the first country that caught my attention with its GDP was Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan has a GDP of $290.994 billion and an annual growth rate of 4.5 percent. Per capita, Kazakhstan's GDP stands at $14,395. Agriculture accounts for approximately 5 percent of Kazakhstan's GDP. Grain, potatoes, grapes, vegetables, melons, and livestock are the most important agricultural commodities. The chief livestock products are dairy products, leather, meat, and wool. The country's major crops include wheat, barley, cotton, and rice. Wheat exports, a major source of hard currency, rank among the leading commodities in Kazakhstan's export trade. Kazakhstan has a significant agricultural sector due to its vast land area and diverse climatic conditions. The country is known for its production of grains, particularly wheat, barley, and maize. Other important crops include potatoes, vegetables, fruits, and cotton. Livestock farming is also a crucial component of Kazakhstan's agricultural industry, with cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and poultry being raised for meat, dairy, and other products. The country has vast pasturelands suitable for grazing, which supports its livestock sector. Kazakhstan has been working to modernise its agricultural sector, improve infrastructure, and increase efficiency through various government initiatives and investments. Additionally, the country has been focusing on sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing food security. Turkiye has one of the largest economies in the world, ranking among the top 20 economies by GDP size. Its GDP is typically measured in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP) due to currency fluctuations. According to the World Bank, Turkey's GDP was around $1.154 trillion in 2023. Turkiye has a diverse economy with key sectors including manufacturing, services, agriculture, and tourism. The country has successfully diversified its economy over the years, reducing its reliance on agriculture and expanding into the industrial and service sectors. Turkey has a robust manufacturing sector, producing a wide range of goods including automobiles, electronics, textiles, and machinery. The country is known for its competitive manufacturing industry and has been able to export its products to various markets around the world. The services sector is a significant contributor to Turkey's economy, encompassing finance, telecommunications, tourism, and real estate. Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, is a major financial hub and attracts investments in various service industries. Although the contribution of agriculture to Turkey's GDP has decreased over the years, it still plays an important role in the economy, especially in rural areas. Turkey is a leading producer of agricultural products such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and livestock. Turkey is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the country's economy, attracting millions of visitors each year. Kyrgyzstan has a relatively small economy compared to other countries, but it plays an important role in Central Asia. Its GDP is primarily driven by sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. In recent years, the country's GDP has experienced moderate growth, $37 billion. Kyrgyzstan's market success depends on various factors, including government policies, investment climate, regional stability, and global economic conditions. The country has been working to attract foreign investment and promote economic diversification to enhance its market competitiveness. Agriculture is a significant sector in Kyrgyzstan, employing a large portion of the population and contributing to both GDP and exports. The country produces crops such as wheat, barley, potatoes, and vegetables, as well as raising livestock. Additionally, mining, particularly of gold, is an important contributor to Kyrgyzstan's economy. Kyrgyzstan's trade is influenced by its geographical location in Central Asia. The country has trade relationships with neighbouring countries as well as international partners. Efforts to improve trade infrastructure and simplify trade procedures can enhance market success. Uzbekistan has been undergoing economic transformation and diversification, resulting in strong GDP growth rates in recent years. The country has implemented structural reforms to liberalise its economy, attract foreign investment, and promote private sector development. Uzbekistan has embarked on an ambitious reform agenda aimed at modernising its economy and improving the business environment. Reforms include liberalising currency exchange rates, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and privatising state-owned enterprises. Uzbekistan has a GDP of $100 billion. Uzbekistan's economy is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and services. The country is known for its production of cotton, gold, natural gas, and agricultural products. Efforts to modernise and expand these sectors have contributed to economic growth and market success. Uzbekistan has been actively seeking foreign investment to support its economic development goals. The government has implemented measures to improve the investment climate, including offering incentives to foreign investors, streamlining regulations, and enhancing infrastructure. Uzbekistan's strategic location in Central Asia positions it as a key player in regional trade and connectivity initiatives. The country has been strengthening its ties with neighbouring countries and participating in regional organisations to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation. Turkmenistan has a relatively large GDP ($81.822 billion) compared to its population size, primarily due to its significant natural gas reserves. The country's GDP is heavily reliant on revenues from the energy sector, particularly natural gas exports. Turkmenistan is one of the world's leading natural gas producers, with vast reserves located primarily in the country's eastern regions. The government controls the energy sector, and revenues from natural gas exports play a crucial role in the economy. Turkmenistan has invested in infrastructure development projects, including transportation networks, energy infrastructure, and industrial facilities. These investments are aimed at modernising the economy and supporting economic growth. Finally, we will look at the situation in Azerbaijan. The country's GDP is $77.392 billion for this year. Azerbaijan has a relatively large GDP compared to other countries in the region, primarily due to its significant oil and gas reserves. Azerbaijan's economy is heavily reliant on its oil and gas sector, which accounts for a significant portion of government revenue and exports. The country's oil and gas reserves, particularly from the Caspian Sea, have driven economic growth and development over the past few decades. In recent years, Azerbaijan has made efforts to diversify its economy away from dependence on oil and gas. The government has invested in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, transportation, and telecommunications to reduce vulnerability to fluctuations in global oil prices. Azerbaijan has invested in infrastructure projects to support economic development and improve connectivity within the region. Projects such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway have enhanced Azerbaijan's role as a transit hub for energy and goods. Azerbaijan has actively sought foreign investment to support economic diversification and development. The government has implemented reforms to improve the business environment, attract foreign capital, and promote private sector growth. Azerbaijan's economic success is influenced by its relationships with neighboring countries and regional organizations. The country has sought to strengthen ties with both Western and Eastern partners to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The population of Central Asia is young and rapidly growing, while in the European Union, the population consists mostly of older generations. This demographic difference is one of the factors that will give Central Asia an advantage over the European Union. The Turkic states are developing countries, including Turkiye and Kazakhstan, which are classified as NIC (newly industrialised countries). This indicates their rapid development. The majority of these countries maintain a positive balance in foreign trade. For instance, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan all have a positive trade balance. Turkiye also maintains a positive trade balance, except for fuel and gold. The only notable difference for Turkiye is the absence of significant oil and gas resources. Turkic states are also strategically located in the area between China and Europe, and this gives them an advantage as a corridor between east and west. An analysis reveals that the potential of the Central Asian states surpasses that of the European Union. Because, one of the main reasons for this is the rapid growth of the population in the east and the positive effects of increasing consumer demand on the dynamics of the economy. At the same time, as President Ilham Aliyev noted at the swearing-in ceremony, Azerbaijan will continue its efforts within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States. "We have fraternal relations with all countries that are members of the Organisation of Turkic States, and our policy is to strengthen the Organisation of Turkic States. It is a large geography, a large territory, a large military power, a large economy, natural resources, transportation routes, a young and growing population, and peoples from the same roots," the president said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more On February 17, President Ilham Aliyev held a joint meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister of the Armenia Republic Nikol Pashinyan at the initiative of the German Chancellor. During the meeting, they exchanged views on bilateral relations. After the meeting, the Armenian PM met with representatives of the Armenian community in Munich. Within the framework of the meeting, Pashinyan told Armenian community representatives about the conference and the "difficulties" facing Armenia. Pashinyan noted that Garabagh's right to self-determination is not supported by the international community, which is why Armenia waged this conflict not only against Azerbaijan but against the whole world. Shahla Jalilzade, research fellow International Relations Specialist commenting on the subject for Azernews, said that Azerbaijans victory in Garabagh is difficult to accept for the Armenian community. She added that Pashinyan is trying to inform them that there is no other way. It seems that it is too difficult for the Armenian community to understand and accept Azerbaijan's victory in Garabagh, and Pashinyan trying to explain to them that there is no other way, Expert drew attention to the so-called Artsakh Republic, an unrecognized or de facto state, that Armenia tried to create in Azerbaijan's territories. She said Pashinyan himself reminded that no country in the world had supported the independence of the so-called regime when he declared that there was no international community support in Garabagh. When Nikol Pashinyan declares that "Garabaghs right of self-determination" is not supported by the international community, he means that no country in the world has supported the "independence" of the so-called regime so far and will not support it in the future, Shahla Jalilzade reminded that several states have called on the countries of the world to recognize this regime. But she added none of them had taken any steps in this direction because everyone knew that this would be against international law. We know that the French Parliament called on the government to recognize the so-called "Republic of Artsakh". However, governments have never dared to take a real step in this direction, because it would mean a clear violation of international law, The expert also reminded that one of the questions addressed to Nikol Pashinyan about his resignation. She said the Armenian diaspora sees the Prime Minister as the cause of Garabagh. At the meeting with the Armenian community within the conference one of the questions addressed to Pashinyan was: "You have lost Karabakh too, when will you leave power?" It means that the global Armenian network considers Pashinyan and his political line as the cause of the loss of Garabagh, and draws strategic plans and projects to restore the so-called regime, but in the background of all this, Pashinyan, who is a pragmatic politician, dictates the realities to them, Shahla Jalilzade added that the Armenian Prime Minister trying to implement President Ilham Aliyevs thoughts on the normalization process between 2 countries. Pashinyan implements the formula that Ilham Aliyev announced in his swearing-in speech - the normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations should be out of the agenda, She noted that Azerbaijan and Armenian work on peace agreement suggests new regional projects in upcoming years. The emphasis placed on continuing the work on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty at the tripartite meeting held within the framework of the conference suggests that new regional projects and global initiatives will be on the agenda in the upcoming period, Expert touched on the COP29 which will be held in Baku. She added that if the relations normalize, Pashinyan also participate in the event, because the Armenian President participated in COP28. As we all know COP-29 will be held in Baku. Armenia's agreement to it, Ilham Aliyev's meeting with the US President's special representative in Munich and inviting him to the event in Baku, create speculation that if relations normalize, maybe Pashinyan also will participate in COP-29 in Baku. I reminded that the President of Armenia participated in COP-28, Shahla Jalilzade also stated that in terms of regional communications, this year would be decisive. She added that opinions expressed at the Munich conference were the real proof of international support for Azerbaijan. We can say that 2024 will be decisive in terms of regional communications and demarcation of borders because this is also necessary for the world powers. The meetings and opinions expressed at the Munich conference were an expression of global support for Azerbaijan's superior position in all these directions, Shahla Jalilzade said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 19:45 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more Azerbaijan continues to enhance its military power and diversify its exports through the defence industry. In this regard, Baku has cooperated with several countries, such as Israel, Bulgaria, Turkiye, South Africa, and so on. In his speeches, President Ilham Aliyev repeatedly emphasised the importance he attaches to this sector. In his last visit to Turkiye, the President heralded that Azerbaijan will broaden its achievements in the defence industry. The President pointed out that new opportunities emerged, discussions have been held in this regard, and there are concrete plans for joint production with Turkiye. However, he did not clarify what specific products the joint production covers. In a comment to Azernews on the issue, Turkish Reserve General Yucel Karauz noted that there is a broad field in the defence sector in which Azerbaijan and Turkiye can cooperate and conduct joint production. The Turkish General pointed out that Azerbaijan can conduct joint production with private and state companies, which will be more economical and profitable. He exemplified the UAVs and UCAVs produced by Bayraktar Makina and TAI, communications tools produced by ASELSAN, surface-to-air and air-to-surface missiles produced by ROKETSAN, wheeled and tracked armoured vehicles, and research and development activities in the fields of mine clearance. Turkish ASELSAN has already had a facility in Azerbaijan for 15 years, and ROKETSAN is constructing a plant in Baku. Besides, Baykar Makina and ASELSAN are making preparations in this regard as well. In addition to these factories, studies are ongoing on the joint production of the Kaan National Combat Aircraft, the production of some parts of it in Azerbaijan, and the production of some parts of the Kzlelma plane in Azerbaijan. It has been considered set up, both for the production of all factory systems and the production of certain parts of certain products in Azerbaijan. Now, even the USA does not produce the entire product. For example, the parts of the F35 are manufactured in approximately 20-25 countries and assembled in the USA. In other words, there is no need to make all of a product in one country, the general noted. As for the importance of this partnership for the region, the General emphasised that it will provide the modernization of old Russian weapon systems in the former Soviet Union countries. Besides, the Turkic states, which President Ilham Aliyev and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have referred to as a family, use common defence industry products of the 300 million-strong Turkic world and carry out R&D activities together, preventing the repetition of some already known works and thus reducing R&D costs. It will make Azerbaijan not only a country purchasing defence industry products but also increase the export of more technological and sophisticated defence industry products. The general pointed out that, at the same time, it will make Azerbaijan a centre in the defence industry of all of Central Asia and the Caucasus. This is a very important opportunity. The activities, together with the Shusha declaration made by Turkiye and Azerbaijan, can bring courage to these countries, especially Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, and, as I mentioned earlier, the supply and integration of these manufactured defence products to other Turkic states and Hungary can be ensured. Later, these products can be exported to other countries around the world. In the past, wars were fought with the strength of muscles. Whoever shot the arrow well and used the sword well won wars. Afterward, horses entered the scene, and those who had good and many horses won wars. Then, with the invention of firearms, tanks, and cannons, those who had more bullets, gunfire, and logistics won wars. Currently, states that have a good defence industry, have low foreign dependency, are smart, and invest in modern systems are winning wars. Therefore, these activities carried out in the defence industry will provide profit to every country within the framework of the win-win formula. At the same time, it will become a country that can put its fist on the table with its modernity and independence, and speak out in terms of conventional and electronic warfare as well as its soft power. This also enables the transition to the Turkish army model that President Ilham Aliyev expressed in his speech and provides a strong army. Because a strong army means a strong state, if you have a strong state, you will live independently forever, Y. Karauz underlined. --- Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 11:17 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more Azerbaijan and the United States discussed increasing gas supply to Europe Azernews reports, citing the post shared by Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan Energy Minister, on his official X account. "At the White House, we discussed the development of the SGC, the increase of gas supplies to Europe, the Green Energy export, and the reduction of methane emissions in a meeting with Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate and Energy," the minister said. At the White House, we discussed the development of the SGC, the increase of gas supplies to Europe, the #GreenEnergy export, and the reduction of methane emissions in a meeting with Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate and Energy. pic.twitter.com/wGEZHhsMhx Parviz Shahbazov (@ParvizShahbazov) February 21, 2024 Note that Azerbaijans Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov has participated in the discussions organised by the Atlantic Council, one of the influential analytical centres operating in Washington, USA. The discussions were held in the format of a business lunch moderated by Landon Derentz, senior director at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Centre. The Azerbaijani minister highlighted the strategic role of Azerbaijan, which is located in an important geopolitical position, in the security of energy supplies to Europe, especially through the Southern Gas Corridor. The participants reviewed the policy of Azerbaijan, a host country of COP29, on accelerating the energy transition at the national and global levels, decarbonisation, reducing methane emissions, climate financing, and its course on the development of renewable energy. Minister Parviz Shahbazov noted that the state policy of President Ilham Aliyev prioritising the development of Azerbaijan as a country of green growth by 2030 gave a powerful impetus to the transformation of the energy sector. Moreover, Azerbaijan's Ambassador to the United States, Khazar Ibrahim, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy in the Bureau of Energy Resources, Laura Lochman, state officials on energy and climate issues, and representatives of international energy companies and organisations attended the meeting. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 12:51 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more To decarbonise the Sangachal terminal, 8 industrial-scale power plants will be put into operation by 2027. According to Azernews, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said this in a meeting with Rick Duke, the deputy special representative of the US President on climate at the State Department. Azerbaijan's course to accelerate the Green Energy transition during the COP29 presidency, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and cooperation with the United States on the Green Energy corridor were discussed at the meeting. To achieve Azerbaijan's "green development", the issues of creating a new legislative framework in the field of energy, and increasing the share of renewable energy in electricity and oil and gas operations were discussed. It was also noted that the Green Energy Corridor, covering Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary, was implemented to export "green electricity" and "green gas" based on the 157 GW wind energy potential of the Caspian Sea. Opportunities for cooperation with the US on this energy corridor were considered. In addition, the goals of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) to join the Oil & Gas Decarbonisation Charter (OGDC), to reduce flaring to zero, and to reach zero methane were evaluated as indicators of Azerbaijan's commitment to measures to combat climate change. The main topic of discussion was the development of infrastructure diversifying energy supply, such as the Southern Gas Corridor, in the context of modern energy security challenges in the meeting with US Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt. It is worth noting that Azerbaijan currently supplies gas to 8 countries, and additional gas supply requires increasing the transmission capacity of the Ring of Solidarity along with the Southern Gas Corridor. As in the first phase of the Southern Gas Corridor, it was agreed to cooperate in the direction of US support for the expansion process. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 16:23 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more The countries of the European Union (EU) imported about 260.7 thousand tons of methanol from Azerbaijan in 2023, which is 0.4% less than in 2022, Azernews reports, citing the Statistical Office of the EU (Eurostat). Access to paid information is limited Find the plan that suits you best. The University of Glasgow Azerbaijan Alumni Association (UGAAA) has hosted Burns Night event at the Shirvanshah Hotel. This special event was dedicated to commemorating the great Scottish poet, Robert Burns, Azernews reports. Speaking at the opening ceremony, UGAAA President Farid Nasirli noted that the University of Glasgow Azerbaijan Alumni Association (UGAAA) was founded in 2023 with the endorsement of the University of Glasgow. The UGAAA proudly stands as a prominent global alumni association of the university. Its primary mission is to cultivate a strong sense of community among University of Glasgow alumni and Azerbaijani alumni affiliated with UK institutions. Additionally, the association is dedicated to building a robust network among its alumni, facilitating meaningful connections during events. The guests of the event were informed about the history and culture of the University of Glasgow. The importance of Burns Night was highlighted as well. Furthermore, poetess and writer Ulviya Akhundova as well as poetess and writer, laureate of the international prize Leili Salaeva recited poems by Scottish poet Robert Burns and Mirza Shafi Vazeh, an outstanding Azerbaijani poet who lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. The event was held in one breath, all the guests were all captured by the warm atmosphere. The guests of the event, including representatives from the British Embassy, UK alumni and members of different organizations were able to network, enjoy a buffet dinner and learn more about Scottish culture together. Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz The Azerbaijan Cultural Centre in Uzbekistan has presented a photo exhibition, "The Sun Rising Again in Garabagh". Director of the Azerbaijan Cultural Centre, Samir Abbasov, addressed the opening ceremony of the exhibition, Azernews reports. In his speech, Samir Abbasov said that thanks to the successful policy of President Ilham Aliyev and the bravery of the Azerbaijani Army, the Azerbaijani territories were liberated from almost thirty years of Armenian occupation. The diplomat stated that every year, with the organisation of the Azerbaijan Cultural Centre in Tashkent, Uzbek journalists and cameramen organise media tours to Azerbaijan and districts freed from occupation. "During the past years, the journalists of the brotherly country who have been on a media tour in Azerbaijan have written dozens of articles for television and radio programs, newspapers, and websites about our country. Uzbekistan's well-known photographer Husniddin Atoyev also took part in the media tour and took rare photographs of Azerbaijan's territories liberated from occupation, said Samir Abbasov. The Azerbaijani Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Huseyn Guliyev, spoke about the historical friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, noting that the cooperation has been developing along a rising line in recent years. He also spoke about Armenia's historical policy of aggression against the Azerbaijani people and gave information about the massacres carried out by Armenians in Central Asia as well as the Caucasus. The author of the photos displayed in the exhibition, the well-known Uzbek photojournalist Husniddin Atoyev, said that he was amazed when he visited Azerbaijan's liberated territories. "I visited Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Shusha, and I saw the destruction of cities and villages created by the Azerbaijani people over thousands of years in these areas. The photos on display are part of the pictures taken. In the future, together with the Azerbaijan Cultural Centre, I plan to hold new exhibitions based on photographs taken on the subject of Azerbaijan, including Garabagh," he added. In the end, the participants visited the Garabagh corner created in the Turan library. The corner was presented with an encyclopaedic book "Shusha - the Cultural Capital of the Turkic world" in five languages and a postage stamp made in Uzbekistan. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 10:01 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more A joint certificate program dedicated to Sustainable Horticulture Systems has been launched at ADA University, Azernews reports. The program, held with the support of MacFrut Academy in cooperation with the University of Bologna within the Italy-Azerbaijan University project, consists of three modules. It serves as a dialogue platform between various institutions operating in the agricultural and food sectors of Azerbaijan and Italy. The first module will last five days on February 19-23, 2024 at ADA University in Baku. In this training, which will be held for professionals working in the relevant sector, representatives of industry, government, and academic circles will come together and exchange ideas to find solutions to the current problems and challenges of local small and medium enterprises. During the program, participants will be trained to draw lessons from current global trends and best international practices and adapt them to the local context to seek modern solutions to problems. During the program, seminars with researchers and international experts, business meetings between producers specializing in horticulture in Azerbaijan and Italy, including professional seminars will be held. On February 23-the last day of the module, the Italian-Azerbaijani Horticulture exhibition will be held, in which Azerbaijani and Italian companies will join with the partnership MacFrut exhibition, Caspian Agro and the support of Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO). The next modules of the program will be held in April and May. During the second online module, the participants will get acquainted with theoretical knowledge, as well as materials on the most advanced technology and experience in the field of agro-food prepared by the MacFrut exhibition. The last module, the Bologna module, will be held on the same dates as the MacFrut exhibition in Italy. On the last two days of the module, program participants will have access to this exhibition and will benefit from a special program prepared for them within the framework of the exhibition. This cooperation with MacFrut is an opportunity to establish useful business relations, as well as to improve the products and services of companies in the agricultural sector. It is worth noting that one of the activities of the new Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences jointly founded by ADA University and the University of Bologna is the organization of short-term courses for professionals working in this sector. The Sustainable Horticultural Systems program, which started operating today, is the second program in this direction. It should be noted that the first program in this direction was organized last year under the theme Management of Agriculture and Food System. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 20 February 2024 18:59 (UTC+04:00) Antonella Bassani, World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, 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 Azerbaijan. It has been a pleasure to work with you and your government during these past years. The World Bank Group remains committed to supporting you in the implementation of the key strategic priorities reflected in the country's 2022-2026 Socio-Economic Development Strategy. We stand ready to share our global knowledge to assist the government in the design and implementation of policies and investments that benefit all citizens of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan has achieved significant development results over the past decade. I appreciate your commitment to implement comprehensive reforms to diversify the national economy and reduce the country`s dependence on oil and gas. I also congratulate you for Azerbaijan hosting COP29 and thus demonstrating your readiness to help shape the global discourse on climate action. I wish you success in your new mandate as President and look forward to continuing our collaboration. Sincerely Antonella Bassani World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 10:40 (UTC+04:00) As a result of step-by-step and coordinated measures taken by the government of the Azerbaijan Republic, on February 20, 2024, 7 citizens of Azerbaijan, including 5 children and 2 women, who were detained in camps located in the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, were repatriated to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. It was reported that, first of all, the location, identity, and citizenship of Azerbaijan were determined, and then their transition to the territory of the Republic of Turkiye was organized. Representatives of the relevant state institutions responsible for the repatriation of Azerbaijani citizens from Iraq and Syria were sent to the Turkish Republic, and preliminary medical and psychological examination of the repatriates was ensured. Azerbaijan citizens were provided with certificates of return to the Azerbaijani Republic and brought to the country by the Embassy of the Azerbaijan Republic in the Republic of Turkiye. It is planned to implement relevant measures in the direction of social rehabilitation and reintegration of repatriates into society. The government of the Republic of Azerbaijan will continue to take necessary measures for the repatriation of citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan who have become victims of armed conflict on the territory of foreign countries. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 11:59 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more The Chairman of the Agency, Fuad Nagiyev, signed a new decision in this regard, Azernews reports. The Collegium of the State Tourism Agency approved the "Procedure for the issuance and form of the Confirmation Document" to provide interest subsidies on loans in manat obtained from resident banks and non-bank credit organizations (NBCOs) by entrepreneurs for projects related to COP29, the 19th session of the Conference of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol, and the 6th session of the Conference of the Parties to the Paris Agreement, to be held in Azerbaijan in November of this year. According to the decision, entrepreneurs need to submit the project's implementation plan (business plan) and expenditure estimate to qualify for subsidies. The president of the agency will create a commission to examine applications, determine whether the confirming document should be issued or not, and define its composition. A commission, led by the agency's president or an acting person in their absence, will be created to review applications and decide on the issuance of the confirmation document within 5 business days. If the decision is positive, the confirmation document will be prepared within 2 business days and sent to the address provided by the entrepreneur by mail. If the Agency obtains information based on substantiated facts that the project for which the Confirmation Document was issued violates the requirements of the Regulation, and when these violations cannot be rectified, the Agency will make a decision to revoke the Confirmation Document and inform the entrepreneur and the Fund for the Development of Entrepreneurship under the Ministry of Economy within 1 business day. The Legal Sector of the Agency is tasked with submitting this decision to the Ministry of Justice for inclusion in the State Register of Legal Acts within 3 days. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 11:01 (UTC+04:00) Alar Karis, President of the Republic of Estonia has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, Please accept my congratulations on the occasion of your re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. During this challenging period in history, stability and good relationships are of the greatest value. I am pleased to admit, that the relations between Estonia and Azerbaijan are established on a firm foundation of mutual understanding and respect for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of our countries. I look very much forward to further strengthening friendly relations between Estonia and Azerbaijan in the years ahead. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration. Yours sincerely, Alar Karis President of the Republic of Estonia" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 15:21 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more The USA Stirling Foundation is closely involved in demining operations in de-occupied areas and supports them. According to Azernews, this was announced in a meeting between the Acting Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Associations, Seyyad Salahli, and Edward Rowe, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of the United States representative, executive director of the Stirling Foundation. Seyyad Salahli emphasised that the support of the foundation is highly appreciated in Azerbaijan. At the meeting, he spoke about the tolerance, traditions, and multiculturalism of the Azerbaijani people and the importance that President Ilham Aliyev attaches to the principle of interreligious harmony and equality among religious denominations. The deputy chairman of the State Committee noted that consistent measures are being taken to support the activities of 994 religious communities, 37 of which are non-Islamic. All denominations are taken into account without distinction in the construction, reconstruction, and repair of religious places of worship, in addition to providing financial assistance to religious communities in Azerbaijan. He emphasized that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, headed by President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, pays special attention to the restoration of churches and temples, along with historical and religious monuments and mosques, which were vandalized by Armenia. The representative of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints of the USA, the executive director of the Stirling Foundation, Edward Roe, said that interreligious dialogue and cooperation in Azerbaijan are very valuable. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 13:24 (UTC+04:00) Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President of the Republic of Suriname has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Excellency, I express sincere congratulations on the occasion of your historic re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This victory is a clear reflection of the dynamic and great leadership throughout your term as President, not only in Azerbaijan but also globally. The Republic of Suriname appreciates the bilateral and multilateral relations and looks forward to join efforts in advancing our partnership in areas of mutual interest, for the benefit of our countries and our peoples. In this respect, I am convinced that Azerbaijan, as host of the upcoming COP29, is diligently laying the groundwork needed, to deliver a successful Conference. On behalf of the Government and the People of the Republic of Suriname, allow me to extend best wishes and success, along with good health, as you embark on your new term as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem and consideration. Chandrikapersad Santokhi President of the Republic of Suriname" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 13:41 (UTC+04:00) Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, On behalf of the Republic of Indonesia and my own behalf, I am extending to you my warm greetings and sincere congratulations on your re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Your appointment to this esteemed responsibility exemplifies the profound respect and unwavering confidence bestowed upon you by the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan. I have full confidence in your prominent career and vast experience which shall undoubtedly guide the country towards greater prosperity. Availing myself of this fine opportunity, I am confident that under your continued leadership, we will be able to witness an expansion of bilateral ties and cooperation between our esteems nations which has been thrived for more than three decades. I am delighted to note that we have an excellent opportunity to enhance our cooperative efforts across various sectors and broaden them to cover areas of shared endeavor for the benefit of our people. Wishing Your Excellency and the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan robust health, happiness, and prosperity, please accept the assurances of my highest consideration. Joko Widodo President of the Republic of Indonesia" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 16:46 (UTC+04:00) Fatime Letifova Read more A meeting of the Executive Council of the institution is being held in Baku on February 21 within the framework of the 14th plenary session of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), Azernews reports. The parliamentary delegation of about 40 countries, including speakers from about 10 countries, is participating in the event dedicated to the theme of Strengthening Regional Cooperation for the Sake of Sustainable Development in Asia. The meeting agenda includes issues such as the election of the Bureau of APA, listening to the report of the chairman of the Executive Council, the speech of the General Secretary of APA, the election and approval of the vice-presidents of APA for 2024, and the approval of the agenda of the 14th plenary session of the Assembly. The composition of the APA's standing committees on economic and sustainable development, budget and planning, social and cultural issues, and political issues will also be confirmed at the meeting. Within the framework of the event, meetings of the institution's Executive Council, plenary sessions, political, economic, budget, social, and cultural committees will be held, relevant issues will be discussed, and several organisational issues will be considered. At the end of the session, the Baku Declaration and the final report of the APA will be adopted. The plenary session will finish its work on February 24. It is worth noting that in November 2023, at the meeting of the Executive Council of APA held in Antalya, Turkey, Azerbaijan was elected the chairman of the organisation for 2024-2025. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 17:55 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Azerbaijan's famous composer Fikrat Amirov's ballet "One Thousand and One Nights" keeps captivating ballet lovers worldwide. The ballet's new version was staged by the artistic director of the ballet company of the Primorsky Stage, Russian Honored Art Worker Eldar Aliyev. The Mariinsky Theatre's Primorsky Stage presented the ballet in St. Petersburg as part of its traditional winter tour. The theatre showed a legendary ballet under the baton of the principal conductor and musical director of the Azerbaijani State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, Honoured Artist Ayyub Guliyev. "Since 2020, Fikrat Amirov's ballet One Thousand and One Nights has been successfully staged by the troupe of the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. I am very proud that this masterpiece by one of the most outstanding Azerbaijani composers is highly appreciated by ballet lovers. One Thousand and One Nights is always a great success. Each performance gives great joy to all ballet troupe artists and spectators. All four ballet performances in St. Petersburg were sold out. This once again shows that ballet is in great demand," the conductor told AZERNEWS. Ayyub Guliyev expressed his gratitude to the artistic director and general director of the Mariinsky Theatre, Valery Gergiev, who always pays special attention to the ballet production. "Staged by the artistic director of the ballet company of the Primorsky Stage, Russian Honoured Art Worker Eldar Aliyev, the ballet is distinguished with its stunning choreography, bright costumes and scenery, lighting effects, and wonderful music. The ballet involved the troupe of the Primorsky Stage, including Sergei Umanets, Arina Nagasake, Saki Nishida, and others, as well as the leading artists of the Mariinsky Theatre, Renata Shakirova, Teymur Asgarov, who brilliantly performed under Eldar Aliyev's leadership. The ballet was sold out. The Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra's musicians, Ramin Azimov and Nadezhda Medvedeva, also left the audience in awe with their magnificent tar performance," the conductor said. "Valery Gergiev congratulated us with a magnificent performance. Many public and cultural figures, as well as the Consul General of Azerbaijan in St. Petersburg, Sultan Gasimov, attended the event," he added. The renowned conductor also recalled the premiere of "One Thousand and One Nights" in Qatar. "The ballet has been successfully traveling around the world for many years, captivating audiences around the world. In 2023, the Qatari public welcomed the ballet with great interest. The skill of the ballet artists, who demonstrated the oriental tales through magnificent dances, left the audience in awe," said Ayyub Guliyev. He expressed his confidence that Fikrat Amirov's ballet "One Thousand and One Nights" will further continue to mesmerise the audience worldwide. "I am very proud that One Thousand and One Nights has caused a huge success. I can say that Azerbaijani ballets like One Thousand and One Nights, Love Legend, and Seven Beauties have taken an honourable place among world ballet masterpieces. Fikrat Amirov's ballet One Thousand and One Nights has been successfully staged in Russia, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Qatar, etc. It is also planned to demonstrate the ballet in China and Arab countries. Follow the news, there are a lot of interesting things ahead," he concluded. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 16:00 (UTC+04:00) Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al Burhan Abdelrahman, President of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of the Republic of Sudan has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan On my own behalf and that of the Sudanese people, I am pleased to extend to Your Excellency my heartfelt congratulations on your re-election as President for a new term. I wish you all success in achieving the aspirations and hopes of your friendly people. I seize this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation for the existing relations between our two countries, reiterating my firm keenness to work with the Republic of Azerbaijan to develop our bilateral relations in various fields. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration. Let. Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al Burhan Abdelrahman President of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of the Republic of the Sudan" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 22:25 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva Tesla has lost its status as the most expensive automaker, giving the leadership to Mercedes-Benz, Azernews reports, citing foreign media outlets. The decrease in Tesla's value occurred against the background of the scandals surrounding Elon Musk, which affected the reputation of the electric car manufacturer and the value of its brand. The price of the American company decreased by 12%, to 58.3 billion dollars, which allowed Mercedes-Benz to become a leader - the value of the German brand increased by 1%, to 59.4 billion dollars. The third place in the ranking remained for Toyota, which is estimated at 52.7 billion dollars. Analysts of the Brand Finance consulting company have also identified the strongest car brand in the world, which has become the Italian brand Ferrari. BYD was recognized as the most valuable Chinese automaker, whose value increased by 20% to $ 12.1 billion. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 21:20 (UTC+04:00) Diplomats of Uzbekistans embassy in Seoul held talks with officials from the Ministry of Interior and Safety of the Republic of Korea as well as Kyungpook National University, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz news agency. The conversation centered around strengthening cooperation and sharing experiences with the Ministry of Interior of Uzbekistan in applying artificial intelligence and information technology to combat crime. It was noted that there is a stable and positive trend in the development of cooperation between law enforcement agencies of the two countries. Video conferences and meetings of experts from both countries are held on a regular basis. The South Korean side regularly conducts seminars and workshops for colleagues from Uzbekistan on cybercrime prevention and the use of modern information technology in public safety. 21 February 2024 20:40 (UTC+04:00) The ambassador of Uzbekistan to the UK, Ravshan Usmonov, held talks with the director of the British company Stephen Simon Limited, Biyi Oloko, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz news agency. At the meeting, Biyi Oloko remarked that he had visited Uzbekistan several times in recent years, where reforms in the telecommunications sector and a stable investment climate in the republic sparked his interest in implementing projects in the country, Dunyo reported. He remarked that his company intends to establish a new commercial system in the communications market through the privatization of existing mobile towers owned by Uztelecom and is ready to invest $10 million. Following the negotiations, Biyi Oloko expressed his desire to participate in the "Offshore Outsourcing Tour" event, which will be held in Tashkent and Samarkand from March 18-20, as well as the Tashkent International Investment Forum on May 2. "Stephen Simeon," a consulting and technology company, was founded in 2001 and is located in the high-tech park "Thames Valley Park." The park is home to over 8,000 tech companies, ranging from large enterprises to startups. The company specializes in telecommunications, IT solutions and business services, business transformation, and corporate governance. "Stephen Simeon Limited" conducts projects in countries across Africa and Europe, the USA, and the UK. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 February 2024 20:15 (UTC+04:00) Around 200 influencers from the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Poland, Spain and other countries visited Tbilisi for the ninth edition of the Traverse digital conference, hosted for the first time in the Georgian capital city this month, the Georgian National Tourism Administration said on Wednesday, Azernews reports, citing Agenda. Hosted by Traverse, a London-based agency with tens of thousands of digital influencers and content creators, the event brought together bloggers, YouTubers, Instagrammers, podcasters, videographers and photographers to the city. Maia Omiadze, the Head of the Administration, said she hoped the coverage of Georgia on social media and other platforms would be effective following the event. In European countries [and] on various platforms, articles and posts about Georgia [were shared on] social networks. We hope that similar measures will yield results. We think that Georgia's awareness of similar activities in these countries and in the world in general is constantly increasing, she noted. Linda Lime, a blogger from Austria with 1.6 million followers on social media, praised Georgia's hospitality and friendship, as well as its amazing food and beautiful places, during the visit. We have snowy mountains in Austria, but I really liked Kazbegi, Gudauri. I will share with my Austrian, German and Swiss subscribers the impressions I got here and tell them how beautiful Georgia is, she said. Beside Tbilisi, the influencers were hosted in the highland town of Mestia in the north-west, the ski resort of Gudauri and other destinations to explore visitor attractions, local cuisine and wine, the Administration said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 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? Utah's governor has signed into state law the Utah Sovereignty Act setting up a process where the state legislature can declare that federal directrives violate Utah's state sovereignty and order them not to be enforced in the state. It is the first US state since the South Carolian Nullification Crisis of 1832-3 to stand up for state sovereignty. In that crisis, the South Carolina legislature passed laws nullifying a new and much larger federal tariff and ordered it not to be collected n the state. They stood strong against President Andrew Jackson's threat to march federal troops into the state, and the federal government eventually backed down and agreed to a more reasonable level of tariffs for the entire country. Last year, the ruling Conservatives in the Canadian province of Alberta, its oil rich province, adopted the Alberta Sovereignty Act that set up a process where the provincial parliament can declare federal Canadian laws and rules violate Alberta's sovereignty and are null and void in the province. That law also allows local governments within Alberta to also declare federal rules and laws violate their sovereignty and therefore are null and void. The Alberta Sovereignty Act has already been formally invoked once to declare that when pending federal environmental rules on oil production / green energy come into force, they will be null and void in Alberta. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/utahs-new-sovereignty-act-will-overrule-federal-government-constitutional Canadian federal officials responded to the passage of the Alberta Sovereignty Act with a threat to take the province to court. Alberta's leaders countered that Quebec's secession referendum several decades ago established a precedent for such referenda within Canada, and the federal government trying to play the judicial card could lead to provincial authorities playing the secession referendum card. Federal officials then went quiet about taking them to court. https://www.beaufortcountynow.com/post/74604/alberta-invokes-sovereignty-act-to-nullify-canadian-green-energy-regs.html Several Canadian provinces, including Alberta, also flatly refused to enforce Trudeau's new federal gun control law last year. Johnson & Johnson is eliminating 51 positions at its consumer health spinoff Kenvue through the first half of the year, according to a WARN notice filed with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Positions are being eliminated from Kenvue's temporary base in Skillman, N.J., according to a Feb. 20 report from NJBiz. It is not clear what types of roles will be impacted. Kenvue did not respond to NJBiz's request for comment. Kenvue also expects to cut 84 jobs following the planned closure of its Los Angeles location in April, according to a WARN notice. Kenvue completed its separation from Johnson & Johnson's core pharmaceutical business in August, with its brand portfolio including Band-Aid, Tylenol and more. The company recently signed a lease for 290,000 square feet of space for its global headquarters in Summit, N.J., and plans to relocate through 2026. This is just one of several health and medtech layoffs that have impacted the industry so far in 2024. Austin, Texas-based St. David's HealthCare has earned planning commission approval to nearly quadruple the size of its medical office building in the city, according to a Feb. 21 report from the Austin Monitor. The two-story building is 58,205 square feet, but St. David's plans to add 136,000 square feet. St. David's owns 51% of the property, which houses several specialists, including the Southwest Regional Cancer Center and Texas Heart and Vascular. While commissioners unanimously approved the expansion, some community residents have raised concerns. Neighbors are concerned the facility might discharge more homeless patients into nearby neighborhoods, as the facility provides respite care for homeless patients at below-market rents in the office building, the report said. In 2022, St. David's announced that it plans to spend $1 billion on renovations in and around Austin. Darlington, Wis.-based Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County is undergoing a rebrand, which will give the hospital a new name and an updated logo. Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County will go by the name Lafayette Hospital + Clinics starting in January 2025, according to a Feb. 20 news release from the hospital. The hospital will begin bearing the name at the grand opening of their new location, which is expected to be completed in November 2024. In addition to this, the hospital will also get an updated logo that will incorporate more vibrant colors. As Massachusetts lawmakers continue to express their concerns over Dallas-based Steward Health Care's financial troubles, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has written a new letter to the health system's CEO, Ralph de la Torre, MD, pushing for financial documents to be disclosed. "You and your team have not been forthcoming, truthful or responsive about whats happening with your financial status, operating plans, and contingency strategies," Ms. Healey said in the letter. "Navigating this acute crisis, which is of your making, without complete transparency and real-time information, harms our ability to protect patients, our workforce and our state." The governor's recent letter comes after state lawmakers sent a letter to Cerberus Capital Management, a private equity firm that founded Steward, demanding answers to their questions related to the health system's troubles no later than Feb. 28. The letter was signed by the entire all-Democratic delegation. Ms. Healey's recent letter ordered Steward to share its financial statements by Feb. 23 for the state to review to check if any crimes have occurred, the publication reported. "We don't have enough to know what they've done, whether it's criminal or illegal, but to me it really smells, it raises a lot of questions," Ms. Healey told The Boston Globe. Ms. Healey declined to comment on the consequences that Steward would face if it did not comply with her request for answers. She also reiterated to the Globe that the state would not give Steward "a dime to fix the problem they created." Along with falling $50 million behind on year-end rent to Medical Properties Trust, the largest hospital landlord in the U.S., there have been concerns over the potential sale of four of Steward's Massachusetts hospitals. While the health system recently shared that it now has the ability to put a financial safety net around all of them, Steward is looking to sell one or more of its hospitals to other operators. "The time has come to move past our many months of discussions and begin executing a safe, orderly transition of your seven licensed facilities in Massachusetts to new operators as soon as possible," Ms. Healey said in the letter. Amid news that the health system's hospitals are struggling with staffing and supplies, Ms. Healey wrote to Dr. de la Torre, "we will take all actions necessary in consultation with hospital leadership to protect patients, including freezing admissions, closing beds, canceling procedures, and transferring patients to other hospitals." Steward's struggles in Massachusetts also come as three separate Utah lawsuits are seeking a combined $40 million in damages from the health system after investors allege the health system took funding from five of its state hospitals to pay bills it had acquired across other states. Becker's has reached out to Steward for comment regarding the letter and will update this story as able. UPMC is placing new leaders at the top of its cancer and international divisions as longtime leader, Chuck Bogosta, plans to step down. Mr. Bogosta will retire from his three roles as executive vice president of UPMC, president of UPMC International, and vice chair of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at the end of June. Mr. Bogosta has been with the academic health system for 25 years, leading UPMC's international ventures and driving the domestic and global growth of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center network. UPMC International covers partnerships and locations in Italy, Ireland, China, Croatia and Kazakhstan. These agreements include management and advisory services, construction of new hospitals or centers, and clinical and treatment collaborations. In 2013, in its early days of international ventures, Mr. Bogosta told Becker's Hospital Review few health systems had moved toward the global market with a strategy like UPMC's rather than bringing people back to Pittsburgh for care, the health system looked to stand up partnerships and facilities overseas. "Nobody else is really jumping in the way we did," he said at the time. The academic health system is promoting two leaders to take on new responsibilities amid Mr. Bogosta's departure. Joel Nelson, MD, CMO of UPMC International, will become president of UPMC International. Dr. Nelson has chaired the department of urology at University of Pittsburgh's School of Medicine since 1999 and will continue to serve in his role as chief clinical officer and executive vice president of UPMC. Beth Wild, president of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, will assume full leadership of the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center network, which includes the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in the region and more than 70 treatment locations throughout Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland with clinical collaborations in Ireland, Italy and Croatia. Tom Manion is wrapping up his time as president and CEO of New London (N.H.) Hospital. The hospital's parent company, Dartmouth Health, has transferred Mr. Manion to the chief operating officer position at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. Mr. Manion succeeds Jeff O'Brien, who retired as Dartmouth Hitchcock's COO in October, according to a Feb. 20 news release from the health system. "Under [Mr. Manion's] guidance, NLH achieved significant milestones and accomplishments including executing a multi-million-dollar financial turnaround plan, and spearheading outstanding employee retention efforts and improving employee engagement," Patrick Jordan III, COO of Dartmouth Health, said in the news release. "After an extensive national search, we believe he is the right person at the right time for Dartmouth Health's academic medical center," he added. Mr. Manion will assume his new role April 8, and New London Hospital will appoint an interim president and begin its search for a successor. Emily Mastaler is stepping down as CEO of River Hospital in Alexandria Bay, N.Y. Ms. Mastaler has led the 24-bed critical access hospital since 2019. Her resignation takes effect in May, according to a Feb. 21 news release from the hospital; she will remain CEO for the next few months as the board finalizes an interim plan. "The next couple of months will focus on a smooth transition, ensuring the incredible gains we have made over the last several years will continue," Ms. Mastaler said in the release. She has accepted a new role as chief administrative officer of the 124-bed Stony Brook Southampton (N.Y.) Hospital, per a Feb. 21 news release from Stony Brook Medicine. Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems has sold a number of hospitals over the past several years and is evaluating interest for sales that could yield more than $1 billion in additional proceeds, CEO Tim Hingtgen said on the company's Feb. 21 earnings call. "We have modeled several attractive scenarios, but will remain extremely disciplined in our decision-making as it relates to divestitures, acquisitions and ensuring that our core portfolio is strong and positioned for long-term success," Mr. Hingtgen said, according to a transcript from Seeking Alpha. CHS CFO Kevin Hammons said on the call that the system anticipates one or more of these transactions could close within the calendar year, "providing substantial capital for the company to redeploy." Mr. Hingtgen said proceeds from divestitures "enable a variety of positive activities such as targeted investments in core markets, funding potential future acquisitions and increased flexibility in debt management." In 2023, CHS sold hospitals in West Virginia, Arkansas and Florida. The system also had plans to sell two of its North Carolina hospitals to Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Novant Health, but the Federal Trade Commission in January sued to block the move. "The case will now move to federal court for final determination," Mr. Hingtgen said. The 71-hospital, for-profit system reported $957 million in operating income in 2023, improving on the $821 million gain posted in 2022. Members of the New York State Nurses Association and Northwell Health's Long Island Jewish Valley Stream (N.Y.) have reached a tentative labor contract, averting a looming strike. The tentative agreement, reached Feb. 18, includes staffing improvements, addition of new nurse positions in the emergency department holding area, improved benefits including pension improvements, and pay increases, according to a union news release shared with Becker's. The union plans to release additional details about the agreement pending a Feb. 20 ratification vote. The deal follows a tentative agreement reached earlier this month between the NYSNA and Northwell's Peconic Bay Medical Center in Riverhead, N.Y. The union previously announced plans to strike at Peconic and LIJ Valley Stream beginning Feb. 21 unless tentative contracts could be reached beforehand. Sandra Armstrong, RN, a veteran nurse leader at LIJ Valley Stream, said in the union release, "Nurses put our lives on the line because we care about our patients. That's why I became a nurse, and that's why we were ready to do whatever it takes to achieve safe staffing and fair wages to retain nurses and provide excellent care for our Valley Stream community. I'm proud of our nurses for remaining united and ready to fight until Northwell agreed to a fair contract." Northwell shared the following statement with Becker's: "LIJ Valley Stream Hospital is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement with NYSNA. This announcement also accompanies NYSNA's withdrawing its advance strike notice. From the start of negotiations, our sole focus remained on ensuring that our patients continue to receive world-class care and our dedicated nurses can continue to provide that care in the best environment. The agreement provides competitive compensation and benefits and reaffirms our commitment to our team members and patients." Over the past few weeks, arbitrators have ordered New York City-based Mount Sinai Health System to pay more than $2 million in fines for understaffing nurses in units at three of its hospitals, the New York State Nurses Association said in a Feb. 20 news release. On Feb. 2, an arbitrator found "persistent understaffing" of shifts in the emergency department at Mount Sinai Morningside, the union said. The hospital was first cited for the issue last June, and the arbitrator ruled it did not hire enough new nurses to improve staffing practices over the past six months. Morningside was fined nearly $934,000 and was also ordered to hire up to 94 full-time employees. Mount Sinai West was also fined $957,050 after an arbitrator cited similar staffing issues in a Feb. 9 ruling. Mount Sinai Hospital was fined $240,000 for "persistent staffing violations" in its oncology unit. The arbitration awards will be paid out to nurses who worked understaffed shifts, the union said. This marks the eighth time the health system has been fined for staffing policies since a new contract for NYSNA nurses was approved in January 2023. A spokesperson for the health system sent the following statement to Becker's: "Hospitals everywhere have grappled with nursing and other healthcare worker shortages, and these are not challenges unique to any health care provider and have been well documented across the city, state and country. We are confident that Mount Sinai is appropriately resourced to provide excellent care as we continue to recruit top caregiver talent and maintain the highest standards of clinical quality for our patients." Nurses at UChicago Medicine voted Feb. 20 to authorize a strike if negotiations between management and the nurses' union fail to reach an agreement. Registered nurses voted 97% in favor of authorizing the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United bargaining committee to call a one-day strike at any time if management does not address their staffing concerns. No actual strike has been announced. The union represents 2,800 nurses at UChicago Medicine, which includes the flagship 811-bed University of Chicago Medical Center. Management and nurses have been in contract negotiations since September 2023; the nurses' contract expired in November 2023. The University of Chicago Medical Center has engaged in 20 bargaining sessions with NNU as of Feb. 21, according to a Feb. 21 statement shared with Becker's. The system said it has reached "roughly two dozen tentative agreements on a number of topics seven during the last bargaining session alone." "With at least three more bargaining sessions scheduled in February and March, we remain optimistic that both sides will reach an agreement that allows us to continue to retain and attract the high caliber of nurses who so meaningfully contribute to our reputation for providing excellent care," the University of Chicago Medical Center's statement reads. Nurses are calling on the university to address nurse staffing levels, training and resources, as well as demanding management respond to workplace violence prevention proposals. The union is calling for the health system to revise or add provisions to their contract that they say will support nurse retention, such as charge nurses not having patient assignments to support other nurses. More than 2,000 University of Chicago Medical Center nurses held a strike in September 2019 the first nursing strike for the organization after their contracts expired in April. An agreement was reached in November 2019, narrowly avoiding a second strike. Nurses at Ascension Saint Joseph-Joliet (Ill.), who are members of the Illinois Nurses Association, have filed a lawsuit on behalf of themselves and more than 90 of their co-workers who they say were not paid wages they earned for the extra shifts worked by them during the last two-week pay period of November 2023, according to court documents shared with Becker's. The lawsuit, filed Feb. 20 in the Circuit Court of Will County, alleges that the hospital's parent organization, St. Louis-based Ascension, agreed to pay nurses Kaitlynd French, Beth Corsetti and more than 90 of their co-workers for extra shifts and then refused to pay them the incentive pay at the rate promised to them in writing. Union members went on strike Nov. 21 and Nov. 22, marking the second of three strikes that have occurred at the Joliet facility over the last year. The nurses were temporarily replaced starting the first day of the strike and returned to work after the hospital's four-day commitment for the replacement workers ended. During the pay period that included these four days, nurses were encouraged to work incentive shifts and were informed when they returned to work the following week that they would not be paid at the rate they had been promised, the union contends. The nurses' lawsuit claims that Ascension violated the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act and seeks to recover unpaid wages and penalties from their employer. "The employer agreed, both as a matter of standing policy and individually with each nurse for each shift, to pay incentive pay for shifts that nurses worked above and beyond their normal schedule," Will Bloom, an attorney representing the nurses, said in a news release shared with Becker's. "Only after the nurses had worked the agreed shifts did the employer announce that they would not pay them as agreed. That's textbook wage theft." According to the court documents, Ascension claims it doesn't need to honor the incentive pay rate because the nurses did not work their full regular schedule due to the strike. Ascension shared the following statement with Becker's: "Illinois Nurses Association continues to attempt to move the focus away from the work Ascension Saint Joseph-Joliet has done to implement our last, best and final offer, pay our nurses a competitive wage, hire more nurses to support our care teams and recognize our nurses for the quality care they provide our patients. "INA represented nurses were paid pursuant to the terms of the union's negotiated collective bargaining agreement. This lawsuit has no merit, and we will be seeking its dismissal. "We continue to work through issues with INA at the bargaining table. We are ready to move forward together to provide the Joliet community with the quality healthcare they deserve. We hope INA will get serious about working toward a resolution." In the midst of staff shortages, health systems and healthcare groups have become more creative and focused on retention strategies. From listening to nurses to providing more well-being and flexibility options to improving patient safety, here are the top retention strategies that leaders said have decreased turnover rates: Dianne Aroh, MSN, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (Seattle): Listening to our teams is the single most important retention strategy for any organization. Competitive compensation, bonuses, benefits and initiatives will attract people into our organization; however, our culture and how we treat people is ultimately what will keep them. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we constantly seek to understand our nurses' needs and jointly develop solutions to address them. As a result of this collaboration, we're implementing virtual nursing as an innovative staffing model. Virtually Integrated Care allows us to provide an additional layer of care so we can better support our bedside nurses and patients. It also offers nurses a more flexible alternative to the physically demanding role at the bedside while maximizing the application of their experience and wisdom. Kim Blanton, DNP, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital (Lexington, Ky.): I would reiterate the importance of focusing on nursing well-being and assuring a safe workplace environment. The other important aspect is helping to reduce the job duties that take the nurse away from the bedside. Improving workflows such as documentation allows more time at the bedside and less time at the computer. Our nursing team, in collaboration with IT, has been working to reduce the number of clicks and different screens in our electronic documentation system. This allows the nurse to have a more streamlined documentation workflow and ultimately spend more time at the bedside with the patient. These workflow changes help improve the nurses' satisfaction with the job. Sarah Brown, MSN, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at UnityPoint Health (Cedars Fall, Iowa): If we can empower our nurses to create and deliver the healthcare experience they'd wish for their own loved ones, recruitment will be less of a challenge. At UnityPoint Health, we continue to prioritize being a place where our nurses and team members can do this. We're engaging our nursing leaders and empowering team members to give back, to lead and to develop a positive professional practice environment that is committed to continuous improvement and exceptional care. We believe doing this allows our nurses to practice with more autonomy, and our patients and communities will reap the benefits. Lauren Cutter, DNP, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at Jackson Memorial Hospital (Miami): We have established a strategy and process where nurses have regular touch points from the nurse manager level to the senior leader level to ensure that we are all aligned with each nurse and employee's specific goals. With these touch points, leadership works to facilitate those goals and visions, whether it be moving to a unit with a higher level of care, joining a committee or being part of a project that provides exposure to the community. We strive to create an environment where our nurses and employees can grow. Vicki Good, DNP, RN. Chief Clinical Officer at the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses: Nurses continue to use their voices advocating for the work environment to be addressed. The health of the work environment is one of the primary reasons nurses cite when leaving an organization. Now, the AACN is supporting interprofessional teams advocating for HWEs. the AACN is working tirelessly with hospitals and health systems across the United States to bring interprofessional teams together to move the AACN Healthy Work Environment Standards from paper to implementation. Nurses who work in units that are actively working on implementing any of the six AACN Standards for Establishing and Sustaining Healthy Work Environments reported higher satisfaction with their job and the profession, better quality of care, more shifts with appropriate staffing and less intent to leave their current positions. Kathy Isaacs, PhD, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at Kentucky Children's Hospital (Lexington): Starting a career in nursing requires a solid foundation right from the beginning. One critical strategy to enhance retention is to ensure new nursing graduates successfully transition from being a student to being a full-time nurse. Our Nurse Residency Program is structured as a one-year support and educational program for new graduate nurses who serve in a bedside role. Participants work with expert nurses on improving a number of skills, including critical thinking, leadership and communication. It also offers an opportunity for new nurses to learn more about evidence-based practice and patient safety. Rosalie Mainous, PhD, APRN. Dean of the University of Kentucky College of Nursing (Lexington): Enculturation of each student in a College of Nursing to the norms and the culture of the profession are critical to the success of those who remain in the profession over time. Building soft skills, resiliency and offering peer mentors facilitates the development of the role and who we are as nurses. Partnerships with our academic-practice partners to aid the transition to practice and diminish the stress of the new nurses as they enter the profession is fundamental to retention. Veronica Martin, DNP, RN. Chief Nursing Officer of South Region of CommonSpirit Health (Chicago): If I have to narrow it down to a single most important strategy, it would be shared decision-making. Allowing nurses to collaborate with each other and their supervisors about scheduling decisions empowers team members. It gives nurses a voice and an opportunity to be heard and taken seriously about their work-life balance needs. Gwen Moreland, DNP, RN. Chief Nurse Executive at UK HealthCare (Lexington, Ky.): I think the most important strategy we are doing to retain nurses is investing in our people. We invest in our people by supporting professional governance, nurse well-being and workplace safety. We offer benefits to support their professional development through certification, advancement and advanced education. Additionally, our culture is one of learning and providing care in a collaborative, compassionate model which encourages all team members to ask questions, escalate concerns and utilize the expertise of your team. Tiffany Murdock, PhD, MSN, RN. Senior Vice President and System Chief Nursing Officer at Ochsner Health (New Orleans): We are focused on embedding a culture of empowerment and implementing clear structures to listen to our nurses, hear their feedback and take action on their concerns, and their ideas and opportunities for improvement. We want our nurses to have a seat at the table, to help define our practice model and create the nursing voice. By really listening to our nurses, we are committed to identifying opportunities to uplift and invest in our bedside nurses, which we believe is a large component of nursing recruitment and retention. Carol Porter, DNP, RN. Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston): One of the most important strategies to retain nurses is to recognize and respect that every nurse is an individual with personal needs and professional goals. At MD Anderson, we lead with an innovative and inspiring environment that supports growth and empowers nurses. In November, we announced the establishment of the Meyers Institute for Oncology Nursing. Providing wellness, educational and professional resources tailored to oncology nurses and nurse scientists, the institute will elevate nursing practice as they achieve their individual goals. We are also launching the Nurse Leadership Academy, an internal effort to advance our nurses' leadership capabilities and create programs to support nurses throughout their careers. These forward-looking efforts will help nurses realize their fullest potential in every aspect of the excellent care they provide and will inspire the next generation of top talent to pursue careers in oncology nursing. Carolyn Santora, MSN, RN. Chief Nursing Officer and Chief of Regulatory Affairs at Stony Brook (N.Y.) University Hospital: The most important strategy for the retention of nurses is to acknowledge and recognize nurses for the critical role they play in healthcare within hospitals, as well as identify the impact that they make on society as a whole. The organization must understand and appreciate nurses for their leadership skills, clinical knowledge and compassion and connection to patients. Proactively, Stony Brook University Hospital has worked on all these elements: recognition, appreciation, creating professional work environments, listening to the voice of their staff nurse, creating environments to support respite and prevent burnout, compensation, and appropriate nursing workload. This has led to decreased turnover (below the national average) and a greatly reduced vacancy rate. Bryan Sisk, DNP, RN. Chief Nursing Executive at Memorial Hermann Health System (Houston): I believe that our most effective strategy at Memorial Hermann for retaining nurses is a robust focus on their well-being. This encompasses a comprehensive suite of wellness resources aimed at promoting physical and mental health, recognizing that a nurse's well-being is foundational to job satisfaction and retention. The organization supports this by integrating work-life balance through flexible scheduling options, ensuring nurses can manage personal and professional commitments effectively. While innovative care models and opportunities for professional development are part of Memorial Hermann's approach, the emphasis on well-being through health resources, schedule flexibility and a supportive culture is central. This focus on the nurses' health and happiness is identified as the single most important factor in retaining nursing staff, underpinning all other retention strategies. Jennifer Shull, DNP, RN. Chief Nursing Officer at Kettering (Ohio) Health: We have involved our nurses in creating a work environment that ensures they can find joy in their work, including removing barriers, working on processes that are redundant, offering shared governance, allow nurses to work at the top of their license and ensuring nurses have a voice in the processes we create. We as nursing leaders need to ensure we're creating work environments where nurses feel they are able to do a good job and find joy in what they do. How we structured nursing care models today will not sustain us in the future, so we've got to get creative in how we support nurses so we can retain them. As 2 in 5 hospitals report shortages of clinical pharmacists, the American Hospital Association on Feb. 20 urged the Labor Department to simplify the hiring process for immigrant pharmacists. In a letter to the department's Office of Foreign Labor Certification, the AHA said the Schedule A Shortage Occupation List should be expanded to include physicians and pharmacists. The Schedule A list was created in 1965 to simplify the process of hiring international workers through allowing immigrants with sponsored work visas to forgo permanent labor certifications. Schedule A accelerates the immigrant visa process for occupations with persistent shortages, according to the letter. The list has not been updated since 2004, and it still includes only nurses and physical therapists. Multiple forecasts show a downturn in available pharmacists and physicians over the next few years. By 2034, the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates a shortage of between 37,800 and 124,000 physicians in the U.S. Also, there has been a downturn in applications for pharmacy schools and residency programs as hospital pharmacy departments already struggle to hire enough staff. Immigrant healthcare workers are highly qualified and are more likely to work longer hours, work at night and live in medically underserved communities than U.S.-born workers, the AHA said, suggesting that add-ons to the Schedule A list can improve healthcare outcomes. Read more about the shortages in hospital pharmacy teams here. Patients triaged and assigned a nurse within 10 minutes of ED arrival. Lab orders collected within 30 minutes. These are among the policies HCA Mission Hospital in Asheville, N.C., has enacted as part of its plan of correction to address serious deficiencies the facility was cited for in January, according to internal documents obtained by The Asheville Watchdog. On Feb. 1, CMS sent a letter to the hospital, notifying leadership that the 815-bed facility is in immediate jeopardy and must take action to avert the loss of federal funding. The agency had set a Feb. 6 deadline for Mission Hospital to submit a plan of correction indicating how it will come back into compliance; the hospital met that deadline. CMS previously told Becker's that submitting the correction plan initiates a multistep process to ensure the hospital has the opportunity to come into compliance and that if accepted, inspectors with the North Carolina Department of Public Health would conduct another survey to evaluate whether immediate jeopardy conditions have been removed. Two sources at Mission Hospital told the Watchdog that surveyors visited the facility Feb. 20, which the health department also confirmed, but added it "cannot comment on ongoing investigations." One of the hospital documents obtained by the publication laid out 10 action items to address deficiencies related to its ED care. Those policies included ensuring patients are assigned a nurse within 10 minutes; enhanced communication procedures; and ensuring patients experiencing alcohol withdrawal have a special assessment completed within an hour of arrival to reduce severity of withdrawal symptoms. The changes referenced were all related to deficiencies CMS had identified in its report on what led to the immediate jeopardy sanction, including long wait times, delays in lab work and other issues that allegedly led to the deaths of four patients, according to the Watchdog, which also obtained the CMS report. "We are pleased that CMS accepted our Plan of Correction and we will continue to collaborate with the surveyors through this process," a spokesperson for the hospital told the news outlet. Late last year, the state health department conducted inspections at the hospital on behalf of CMS and recommended it be placed in immediate jeopardy, noting nine deficiencies related to incidents that occurred between April 2022 and November 2023. Officials at Mission Hospital previously said they had started taking steps to address issues when they received the initial findings from the health department in January, including bringing in more staff to work in the ED. Once surveyors with the state's health department determine that immediate jeopardy conditions are removed, the hospital will have 90 days to complete specific corrective actions and regain compliance with regulations, according to CMS. Earlier this month, the hospital's chief medical officer, Anthony Spensieri, MD, announced in an email to staff that he is "stepping away" from the role. He has led the hospital's medical staff as CMO since November 2019. Legislation introduced in Oregon aims to address violence against hospital workers, according to The Lund Report. \The legislation, House Bill 4088, would make it a third-degree felony to knowingly cause physical injury to a hospital worker while the worker is performing their job duties. The penalty already applies to assaulting a bus driver, emergency medical crew members, taxi drivers and highway flaggers, state Rep. Shelly Boshart Davis said during a Feb. 15 hearing, according to The Lund Report. Under the proposed bill, a felony charge would also apply to hospital workers, with a potential punishment of up to five years in prison and a $125,000 fine for violators. A similar effort failed to pass the Legislature in 2022 amid concerns about criminalizing people experiencing mental illness, according to The Lund Report. The new bill, as initially introduced, stated that a person may not be charged if the person is experiencing an intellectual disability, developmental disability, delirium, dementia, traumatic brain injury, or severe and persistent mental illness. However, earlier this month, the House Judiciary Committee approved an amendment removing those exceptions while leaving a narrower shield for disabled or mentally ill individuals, according to The Lund Report. The bill is supported by groups including the Oregon Nurses Association, the Oregon Emergency Nurses Association, the Hospital Association of Oregon, and the Oregon District Attorneys Association, the publication reported. It is opposed by groups including Disability Rights Oregon, the Oregon Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the ACLU of Oregon, and the National Council on Severe Autism. It would start with a message online. Can I tell you a secret? would flash up on a womans computer or phone screen, before the sender proceeded to make a troubling, strangely personal claim about her life: a faux-pally warning that she was being cheated on, or a hint that she was getting too close to a friends boyfriend. This was just the beginning. Fake accounts might spring up, using the womans photos to engage in explicit conversations. Their friends and family would be bombarded with disturbing messages, which featured false rumours that could turn the victims life upside down. And then there were the countless menacing phone calls, which theyd pick up only to hear the perpetrator breathing down the phone. That perpetrator was Matthew Hardy, an unemployed man from Northwich in Cheshire who is thought to be the UKs most prolific cyberstalker. Over more than a decade, he terrorised his victims by creating hundreds of fake accounts and using them to destroy relationships and reputations. Finally, in 2022, Hardy was sentenced to nine years in prison for five counts of stalking (later reduced to eight years on appeal). Now the Netflix documentary Can I Tell You a Secret? is exploring the stories of the women Hardy targeted, unravelling why it took so long to bring him to justice. A two-part series from Louis Therouxs production company Mindhouse, it is based on The Guardians 2022 podcast about the Hardy case. I was really struck by the power of the womens stories and their bravery, says series director Liza Williams. They had huge amounts of agency in how the perpetrator was caught, and had to take the matter into their own hands, to a degree. The documentary features interviews with Hardys victims, punctuated with real screenshots of messages, along with disconcerting, even eerie visuals designed to make the psychological impact very clear, Williams says. It took a long time to build up relationships with the interviewees, she explains: thanks to their past experiences. If they get a call from somebody they dont know, that can be really affecting. Some decided to speak to the filmmakers off-camera, to help with research, while others found the interview process cathartic, she says. Hardy, now 32, started harassing his classmates online when he was a secondary school pupil, back in the late 2000s when Facebook was in its infancy. Despite being given two restraining orders after targeting two local women, he carried on stalking. He would later turn his focus to women who lived in totally different parts of the UK, to whom he had no links at all. Many had a big following on social media; they shared frequent snapshots from their full lives online. One of them was Zoe Jade Hallam, a model from Lincolnshire, who appears in Can I Tell You a Secret? Initially, Hardy messaged her pretending to be a photographer, feigning interest in working with her; soon, he had started setting up fake accounts, using her images, to send pernicious messages. At one point, the 33-year-old tells me, he made a fake account of my partners father, whos a doctor, and started inappropriate conversations with young girls. Boutique owner Lia Hamblys experience followed a similar pattern. After sending an initial message to Hambly, who is now 25, Hardy would call her hundreds of times; he also impersonated her online, bombarding others with sexual messages. Youd block one account and then hed make another one, she says. Or then he wouldnt be contacting me, hed be contacting a family friend, their boyfriend or their husband. Years later, she still feel[s] embarrassed to be around some of the people that Hardy spoke to using those catfish accounts. I think that will stay forever. I dont think that will ever go away. Even when I watched the documentary, it still makes me emotional. It brings back that feeling of: why have you done this to me? She was also consumed with worry about her personal safety, believing that her stalker was tracking her. On one night out, she told a bouncer about what was going on, and he advised her not to go to the toilet on her own. You should be having a good time with your friends, why should you be worried about that? [Hardys] hundreds of miles away behind this computer screen, but hes making out hes watching me. Hambly became so wary of everyone that I met if someone asked her a question, shed immediately think, Oh, is it you? Hardys attacks were so targeted and personal that they made her assume that the culprit was someone very close It almost makes you feel like youve gone a bit mad. Hallam, meanwhile, became scared to go to the gym, because Matthew knew which gym I went to, what time I went to my class. There [was] nothing stopping him getting in a car and driving down and being outside. Hardys intricate online web of fake accounts was creating real world consequences for all the people [the victims] knew, as director Williams puts it. It was destroying their family, their relationships and friendships. In the documentary, performer Abby Furness, 24, reveals how the chaos wrought by Hardy broke up her and her boyfriend (who had received messages falsely claiming she had cheated on him); at one point, Hardy sent intimate photos of Furness to her boss. Another anonymous victim had her wedding day sabotaged, when she was sent messages alleging that her fiance had been unfaithful. But despite all this, Hardys victims struggled to be taken seriously by the police. Hambly reported her experiences soon after she started being targeted, but was essentially told: Until something happens to you physically, then well look into it. But until then, come off your social media and basically dont go out. Of course, she had already found out that blocking Hardys accounts didnt deter him. Hallam had a very similar experience with a different police force. The second you put the word cyber next to anything, so cyberstalking, cyberharassment, cyberbullying, its never taken as seriously as if its physical, she says. But the way that the internet works, now social media is so integrated into our lives, its not the case that you turn your phone off and you dont get hassled any more. Hallam, who used social media as a platform for her modelling work, remembers showing her account to an officer and feeling judged. Even just his expression the whole thing was like, well, you deserve it, youre asking for it, because I decided to have photos that were a little bit more posey than what he would accept. It wasnt even just from the police other people were like, Youre bringing this on yourself a little bit. Even some of her friends thought she was being dramatic. It was always like, Oh god, Zoe, its always you. No one seemed to really understand the magnitude. Williams describes the general response to the victims as classic victim blaming, and its hard not to agree: the onus was always on the women to change their behaviour. During one home visit from the police, Hambly says she learned that one of Hardys phone numbers had been previously searched hundreds of times and realised that she wasnt his only target. At this point, she started compiling a bundle of evidence, much like the ones she had put together during her stint working as a paralegal; it comprised screenshots of every interaction and every fake account (its huge, as I see when she consults it during our Zoom call). I remember going to the police station with this file, in tears, and begging them saying, Please, can you help me? I dont know what to do, she says. Sometimes, Hardy used his own account to send messages; at one point, he even confessed to Furness. Some victims passed on his name to the police. But it wasnt until PC Kevin Anderson, an officer with the Cheshire constabulary, started to investigate a different stalking complaint against Hardy that things actually started to progress. Looking into police records, Anderson discovered more than 100 reports about Hardy, from 62 victims; hed also been arrested 10 times. He started to reach out to women from other areas whod reported Hardy, including Hallam, Hambly and many more. In the conversation with him, he wasnt just ticking boxes, he wasnt just going through the process of asking the questions, telling me to get security lights, says Hallam. He cared, you could tell by his whole demeanour [...] There was relief that, god, finally someones doing something. Eventually, Hardy pled guilty to five counts of stalking; only he knows just how many people were impacted by his behaviour. His defence barrister argued that Hardys autism and mental health issues had left him isolated, prompting him to seek connection online and lash out if those approaches were rejected. Williams felt it was important to place this in context in the documentary. We spoke to charities and organisations run by autistic people and their main fear was thered be an assumption that this was typical behaviour of an autistic person, which clearly it isnt, she says. The vast majority of autistic people dont display these types of behaviours ... but its also important to talk about the fact that Matthew was diagnosed with autism late, and that meant he was very socially isolated as a young person. And that is a factor in why he became so obsessive and so glued to his social media. I think the film did have to discuss that: its absolutely not an excuse for his behaviour, and it doesnt explain the harm he caused, but it is an important thing to explore. Both Hallam and Hambly hope that the documentary removes any misconception that cyber stalking is somehow a less serious offence than so-called traditional stalking. We want to raise awareness, we want to put pressure on social media platforms to stop the ability to make so many accounts in such a short space of time, Hallam says. She still finds the disparity between the dismissive response to her first complaint and the weight of Hardys eventual sentence quite difficult to compute. It was such a vast difference: from no one caring, to were taking this seriously, and this is the punishment we think it deserves, she says. I wish I could tell the girl at the beginning what was going to happen. Just to give her a bit more strength. Because strength comes with support, and in the beginning, I didnt feel like I had any. But by the end I felt like I had an army. Can I Tell You a Secret? is out now on Netflix Paralympian Jason Smyth: I strive to be the best I can be, and hopefully my children see that The Belfast-based athlete discusses adapting as a parent, the impact of his Mormon faith on family life, and his most memorable sporting moments Jason Smyth with wife Elise and daughters Lottie and Evie Catriona Doherty Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 08:02 The worlds fastest Paralympic sprinter Jason Smyth is currently being put through his paces on RTEs Dancing With The Stars. MBABANE A woman who appeared before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry yesterday alleged that a Masters Office officer told her that they were afraid of then lawyer, Andreas Lukhele. Lukhele is now a judge of the Industrial Court of Appeal. The master said Lukhele used to represent the girlfriend of Phineas Makama, who died in 1997, Lizzy Nkambule. However, Gugu Makama had informed the commission that her father died in 2006. Lukhele, according to Gugu, was the executor in the estate of her father and the master said she was not sure how he was appointed as the executor. Gugu alleged that at the Masters Office, her family was forced to work with Lukhele, despite that they did not want to work with him. Gugu, who appeared before the commission with her sister, Xolile Makama, stated that her father had a girlfriend, Nkambule, and was initially appointed the executrix of her fathers estate. According to Gugu, they did not know who appointed Nkambule at the Masters Office, as she was not present. Gugu said the master called them to her offices and informed them that Nkambule was the executrix and they were surprised how, because she was their fathers girlfriend. She said their father owned three motor vehicles, a home at Nkwalini Zone 4, plot at Ngwane Park and a policy at Liberty Life worth E88 000. She told the commission that they were shocked by the appointment of Nkambule as executrix, yet she was not a Makama. Gugu alleged that their fathers plot at Ngwane Park was sold at an amount they had not agreed upon. She submitted that the plot had been advertised for sale in the newspapers for outstanding rates. They told us to evaluate it. We requested that they should remove Lizzy (Nkambule) and Andreas because we did not know them. They removed Lizzy and left Andreas to continue, but we stated that we could not continue with him, because he had not given us the policy money. What if he sold the plot and we then failed to locate him? Gugu alleged. Gugu told the commission that she was appointed executrix after Nkambule had been removed. She alleged that the plot at Ngwane Park was sold a month after her appointment and she did not know about the sale. Cheque I was shown a cheque of E86 000 and thought it was money from the policy at Liberty Life, but they said it was proceeds from the sale of the plot. I enquired why this was not the amount we had agreed upon and I was told to ask Lukhele. The plot was valued at E220 000. We were told that the E86 000 cheque had been received from Andreas, said Gugu. She told the commission that Lukhele said he did not sell the plot. The complainant told the commission that she wrote to Lukhele, enquiring about the sale of the plot at a lesser amount. Judge Mzwandile Fakudze, reading from a document, told Gugu that the plot was sold at E130 000 and E30 000 was paid to the municipal council and E40 000 for attorneys, that was probably why they received a cheque of E86 000. Gugu said the issue was that the plot was evaluated to E220 000 and I dont know who sold it. At the Masters Office, we were forced to continue with Andreas, yet we did not want him. They said he would not do anything without involving me. He went on to sell it. Judge Majahenkhaba Dlamini enquired if the plot was not sold by Nkambule and she said that was possible. The judge also asked Gugu what became of the policy and she alleged that they did not receive anything from it. Gugu said the master told her to claim at the bank and she was told at Nedbank that she had no right to claim it as the executrix, because it was under attorneys. She stated that the bank did not put that in writing. Judge Maxine Langwenya asked who the attorneys were and she said they said it was Andreas. Gugu submitted that the motor vehicles were sold, except for one that was non-running. Judge Langwenya also enquired from Gugu as to what she had done as the executrix. Policy She narrated that she was informed at the Masters Office that her duties included collecting what had been collected and she brought the issue of Liberty Life policy to the attention of the master and the homestead at Nkwalini Zone 4. I did not collect anything. I requested that the file be closed but I was told that Andreas had to be written to. They ended up telling me that they are afraid of Andreas and he was not responding to letters written to him, alleged Gugu. Judge Lorraine Hlophe asked who had said that and Gugu told the commission that she did not know because officers in the Masters Office did not introduce themselves. Judge Hlophe said the officers should consider wearing name tags. Judge President Sifiso Nsibande asked what happened to the deceaseds Will and she said it was given to the family elders. Master of the High Court Phumzile Thomo said one of the siblings, who are all sisters, complained that Gugu did not want them at the Zone 4 homestead and she was renting out the property. Gugu, however, denied that. She said there was a three-bedroom house as well as her two-room house, which she was occupying. She is alleged to be residing in the Republic of South Africa. The master said E80 000 was paid from Liberty Life to Dunseith Attorneys and there was a letter from Liberty Life dated May 12, 1998 to that effect. She also told the commission that the master had consented to the sale of the plot at Ngwane Park for E130 000 and that Dunseith Attorneys drew up a distribution account, reflecting the policy and plot. Gugu maintained that they received nothing from the estate. Thomo said proceeds of the sale were deposited at the Masters Office and the money was still there. Delays over providing a lifeguard at a Co Down beach are set to continue despite the tragic death of a sea swimmer and well-known businessman in Newcastle. Newry, Mourne and Down District Councils (NMDDC) active and healthy communities committee had previously agreed to provide a lifeguard at the pier in Newcastle during the summer period. Businessman Paul Bradley, the owner of the popular Cafe Fish in south Belfast, lost his life after getting into difficulty swimming in Newcastle last October. However, the chamber was told this week that the provision of a lifeguard may now need to be included in the Newcastle Harbour Regeneration Programme, which has faced criticism from councillors over its slow progress since a review in 2022. Mourne SDLP councillor Laura Devlin said: About the sea swimming issue, I think it was last Augusts committee meeting, we discussed the possibility of a task and finish group, as well as a lifeguard at the Newcastle Harbour. I know that it is due to go through ERT (enterprise, regeneration and tourism), but I wanted to know has there been much development in this regard and will that now need to go through the sustainability and environment committee? In terms of guidance it would be good to know. I am conscious that the better evenings are approaching now and obviously some of the harbour is still really, really popular and I am sure come the summer even more so. So it will be good if we can get some movement on that. A council officer responded: We did outline that we will bring a report back to the queries that were previously raised on this matter. We do know there is a transition happening over who has responsibility for Newcastle Harbour. We are also aware of the Newcastle Harbour Regeneration Programme and we could tie all this in potentially to that programme. We plan to bring a report back to discuss this further. Mr Bradley, who was in his early 60s, had run sit-in restaurant and takeaway Cafe Fish on Belfasts Lisburn Road with wife Gabby McDowell for more than two decades, although he was in the hospitality industry for around 40 years. Police had responded to a report of a man in the water at the South Promenade area of Newcastle last October. Despite attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Public transport workers have staged a number of strikes in the region in recent months (Liam McBurney/PA) Transport staff have warned Translink they will strike for another three days next week unless a deal is struck on pay. The Unite, GMB and Siptu unions said Translink had been notified of 72-hour strike action. In a statement, a Translink spokesperson said: While we have received formal notification of industrial action next week on 27th, 28th and 29th February, we continue to engage with our Trade Union colleagues regarding this proposed action. Services are scheduled to operate as normal at present. Any updates will be added to our website: www.translink.co.uk/industrialaction It's after unions said no pay offers have so far been made. They said the strike would go ahead unless an acceptable offer was made. Speaking to the BBC, hospitality chief Colin Neill appealed to workers to remain around the table. "We think Translink people are entitled to a pay rise but that has to be through a negotiated process," he said. "The damage to other industries will be severe. People can't get to us. It will be another body blow, our industry is strained to the hilt," he said. "Please think beyond the damage you will do if you pull strikes like this before proper negotiations have taken place." Meanwhile, the GMB union said school staff are also likely to strike. They met Education Minister Paul Givan on Tuesday - who previously said the public sector budget was not sufficient to make a pay offer. Further strike action which was originally scheduled by February had been suspended to give the Executive time to "make an improved pay offer". It's after they walked out over a number of days in December and January. Meanwhile, earlier this week junior doctors in Northern Ireland confirmed they would strike for the first time when they take part in a 24-hour walkout on March 6-7. The British Medical Association (BMA) said they had no other choice after 97.6% of junior doctors backed the strike action. Dr Fiona Griffin, chair of BMAs Northern Ireland junior doctors committee, said they owe it to themselves to act. She said: "We have had 16 years of pay erosion which now amounts to over 30% loss of pay, yet in this time our workload and burnout levels have risen. It comes just weeks after a massive strike in Northern Ireland, which saw 16 trade unions and tens of thousands of public sector workers take part. A 3.3bn package is due to be released by the Government now that Stormont has been restored. About 580m of that is to settle public-sector pay claims. DUP MP Ian Paisley has been criticised for his heated contribution to the Gaza ceasefire debate in Westminster, prompting a warning from the Deputy Speaker. The House of Commons later descended into chaos as the Government and SNP condemned Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle for his handling of the debate. Labours amendment pushing for an immediate Gaza ceasefire was approved by the Commons. Earlier, SNP MPs and some Conservatives walked out of the chamber in an apparent protest at the state of affairs as the debate reached its conclusion. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt claimed Sir Lindsay had hijacked the debate and undermined the confidence of the House in its longstanding rules by selecting Labours bid to amend the SNP motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. It had been expected that Sir Lindsay would select just the Governments amendment seeking an immediate humanitarian pause to the Israel-Hamas conflict, which could pave the way for a more permanent stop in fighting. But instead, he decided that the Commons would first vote on Labours calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire before moving on to further votes on the SNPs original motion, and then the Governments proposals if either of the first two were to fail to garner enough support. Conservative MP William Wragg, who called for Sir Lindsay to resign, later tried to make the House of Commons sit in private. SNP MPs were understood to have headed to the voting lobby after the walkout from the chamber. The debate sparked passions on all sides. DUP MP Mr Paisley recalled a recent meeting with Adi Efrat, who was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7 after her house was scorched to the ground. The 51-year-old was taken from Kibbutz Beeri where 120 neighbours including men, women and children were killed during the murderous rampage. Mr Paisley branded the motion which he said doesnt contain a single word about the rape of women and murder of children as vile. Its as if, Mr Deputy Speaker, it didnt happen, he said. Its as if it was invisible. Its as if like other people in the 20th century who denied what happened. It is utterly vile. The North Antrim representative said the awful war in Gaza is a consequence of the unjustifiable attack on Israelis and Jews on October 7. Mr Paisley insisted moral responsibility lies with Hamas as he warned Israel is already facing enemies on eight fronts. The SNP wants us to open up another front, that is the Parliamentary front, against Israel, he said. Following his remarks, SNP MP Steven Bonner appealed to the Deputy Speaker to intervene. Ive just been called [an] antisemite by the honourable member from the north of Ireland, the SNP member said. Its an absolute disgrace that that is where he is bringing this debate today. The Deputy Speaker, who said he didnt hear the comment, instructed MPs to use temperate language. SDLP MP Claire Hanna, who previously worked for a relief and development agency, told the Commons she has never encountered a humanitarian crisis as hellish as what the people of Gaza are facing. Our constituents are watching in devastation and distress and feel powerless to the point of complicity, she said. While stressing that she stood in full solidarity with the Israeli victims of the Hamas attack, the South Belfast MP said the scenes coming from Gaza filled people with dread. I feel that way, she continued. I look at my six-year-old sweet, smiling innocent daughter, and I see a six year old trapped in car for days with nobody listening to her cries and the bodies of all the people she loved those scenes will never leave people. Ms Hanna objected to the slurs and distortions put on those who show empathy as she branded the October 7 massacre as wicked and vile. She described Hamas as a cynical organisation and said she believes in Israels right to exist. Comparisons between the Middle East and NI are shallow, she added. But the one [lesson] that can be learned is the first step is stopping the killing... if we dont support a ceasefire now, when will we? Later, Sir Lindsay apologised to the Commons amid shouts of resign from some MPs. Sir Lindsay told the Commons: I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologise for how its ended up. I do take responsibility for my actions, and thats why I want to meet with the key players who have been involved. Shouts of resign could be heard from both sides of the House. Additional reporting by Press Association Israeli ambassador Dana Erlich said that Israel is portrayed as the only villain in Ireland (Norma Burke/PA) A claim from Israels ambassador to Ireland that Irish people have a one-sided view of the Middle East conflict has been dismissed as unfair by Tanaiste Micheal Martin. Irelands deputy premier said that Irish people were motivated by their shock at the catastrophic number of deaths and destruction in the Gaza Strip. Ambassador Dana Erlich said on Wednesday that Israel is portrayed as the only villain in Ireland, and that the actions of Hamas militants should be condemned more often. I ask the Irish people listening right now: When you criticise Israel, just raise more questions about the actions of Hamas, and think what can be done inside Gaza by the UN agencies in order to actually help the Palestinian people, Ms Erlich told Newstalk on Wednesday. When you call out in the streets of Dublin, why are you not calling out for the release of the Israeli kidnapped civilians? Asked about the comments during a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin said that Irish people were on the side of humanity and were motivated by the horrific humanitarian situation in the enclave. We have been very clear in terms of our condemnation of the Hamas attack of October 7, and indeed of Hamas itself as an organisation, and weve called on Hamas to lay down its arms, and the vast majority of the Irish people support that position, the foreign affairs minister said. Its not fair to say there is a one-sided position. I think the Irish people are on the side of humanity and the Irish people are shocked at the level of death and civilian causalities within Gaza. One hundred thousand people are either dead, injured or maimed and that is shocking; 17,000 children unaccompanied in Gaza now and that is horrific. Micheal Martin said Irish people were on the side of humanity (Niall Carson/PA) That is what motivates the Irish people. We want an immediate humanitarian ceasefire on that basis. Gaza has been levelled. The humanitarian situation is catastrophic. Israels air and ground offensive, launched in response to the October 7 attack, is reported to have killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, obliterated entire neighbourhoods and displaced more than 80% of the population of 2.3 million. More than 69,000 Palestinians have been wounded, according to the regions authorities. The Israeli operation was launched after Hamas-led militants rampaged across communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 hostage. The militants still hold some 130 captives, around a fourth of whom are believed to be dead. Mr Martin said the Government had received a UN briefing on the dire situation within Gaza, adding: That is what motivates the Irish people and Irish Government. The mother of murdered Libby Squire has called for tougher sentences for crimes such as voyeurism and indecent exposure to stop would-be rapists and killers in their tracks (House of Commons/PA) The mother of murdered Libby Squire has called for tougher sentences for crimes such as voyeurism and indecent exposure to stop would-be rapists and killers in their tracks. Lisa Squire said lower level crimes, defined as non-contact sexual offences, should be seen as red flags and need to be taken more seriously to prevent emerging sexual predators from escalating to rape and murder. Her 21-year-old university student daughter was abducted, raped and murdered while walking home from a club in Hull in 2019 and she has been campaigning for earlier intervention and harsher punishments ever since. Married father-of-two Pawel Relowicz was arrested after police launched a large-scale manhunt in the wake of Libbys disappearance. He was jailed for life with a minimum term of 27 years after being found guilty of her rape and murder. The 28-year-old had dumped the philosophy students dead or dying body in the River Hull, hoping it would never be found, Sheffield Crown Court heard as the sentencing judge described him as very dangerous and being emboldened because he had not been stopped. Relowicz, a Polish butcher, had been carrying out a campaign of sexually motivated crimes in the student area of Hull, peering through windows to watch young women and breaking into their homes to steal intimate items. Mrs Squire told MPs on Wednesday sentencing needs to be harsher and the Government needed to do more to raise awareness of the widespread crimes. Speaking to the Commons Home Affairs Committee, she said Relowicz had a long history of non-contact sexual offences running from voyeurism, to household burglaries, to exposure. While she never questioned why police had not caught him because his offending was very different on each occasion she said she could see a link between his offending and then the eventual rape or murder of my daughter. In the 18 months prior to Libbys death, he had escalated massively and nobody seemed to know anything about it, MPs heard. University student Libby Squire was raped and murdered in 2019 while walking home from a night out (Family handout/Humberside Police/PA) He was out on the streets looking for a second victim within two hours of killing her daughter, Mrs Squire said as she called for murderers to be banished to prison for life and warned he will come out and do it again if released from jail. Mrs Squire said lower-level sex crimes were often downplayed and dismissed but they were incredibly serious. If we can stop it here, then were going to save women and girls from the absolute trauma of being raped, she added. Police she worked with all want to stop it but can see how difficult it is mainly because victims do not report incidents and so the escalation in offending is not recorded. Women and girls do not report non-contact sexual offences very frequently, she told MPs. The problem is very widespread and estimated out of a group of 30 girls aged 20, around 75% would have experienced this sort of incident. She said: I have a huge circle of friends and each and every one of us has been a victim of non-contact sexual offence. Mrs Squire previously said she believed Relowicz had exposed himself to her daughter weeks before the murder, although his identity was not known at the time. Recalling the incident to MPs, she said it left Libby feeling absolutely furious, but she talked her down, adding: I didnt think to tell her to report it. I didnt know better then, I know better now. She said she believes some victims have not reported incidents because they did not think it would be taken seriously by police but also that society has been conditioned over the years to think its just something that happens, but thats not OK. While someone may not have been hurt physically, emotionally, its very traumatising, she added. Committee member Tim Loughton said Mrs Squire should be applauded for trying to get something done about this because its just not on the radar and asked where the biggest problem lay in trying to bring about change and shift attitudes. Mrs Squire said it was embarrassing for young women and victims did not want to waste police time or had little faith the offender would be caught, adding: Weve got to change the whole narrative around it. But I do think theres a lot of embarrassment. A very obvious campaign could help, she said, adding: I think we need to have a lot of Government pushing of this is a criminal act and sentencing needs to be harsher. Its a slap on the wrist for the majority of people if theyre caught. So it needs to be taken as the really serious offence it is throw the book at them because Im a bit like that. But a short, sharp slap is not going to work, it needs to be serious. Those convicted of such crimes should be placed on the sex offenders register for life and efforts to change attitudes have to start in schools, teaching boys this is not normal behaviour and encourage girls to report incidents if they become a victim, she added. Submarines are seen alongside the jetty at the Royal Navys submarine base at Faslane, Scotland (PA) The UK has tested Trident missiles 12 times since the weapons entered service in 1994, with each missile costing 17 million. The most recent missile tested by HMS Vanguard on January 30 is reported to have misfired and landed back in the ocean, just metres away from the submarine with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Kay onboard. Downing Street was previously accused of covering up a reported malfunction in a Trident missile launched from HMS Vengeance off the coast of Florida in June 2016. The missile is said to have veered off course towards the US before automatically self-destructing. What is Trident? Trident refers to the UKs nuclear deterrent, which consists of four Vanguard-class nuclear submarines that first went on patrol in 1994, with one of the vessels continually at sea. (PA Graphics) At any time since 1969, one Royal Navy submarine has been on patrol, another resting after returning from duty, one preparing to be sent out and one under maintenance. The decision to replace the original Polaris missile system with Trident was taken by Margaret Thatcher in 1980, and debate over the next update to Britains continuous at sea deterrence (CASD) has been fraught. Parliament approved the replacement of submarines in 2007 but only approved their construction in 2016, with the first replacement submarine expected to enter service in the early 2030s. What is Trident capable of? The Vanguard-class submarine, measuring 150 metres in length and 15,900 tonnes (15,900,000kg) in displacement, travels at more than 25 knots at depths in excess of 250 metres, according to the Royal Navy. Powered by a Rolls-Royce PWR 2 nuclear reactor that converts water into steam to drive the engines and generate electricity, the submarines range is only limited by the amount of food stockpiled for its 132 crew members. HMS Vanguard, HMS Vengeance, HMS Victorious, and HMS Vigilant can each carry up to 16 American-built Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBM), each capable of delivering 12 independently targeted nuclear warheads, according to the House of Commons Library. HMS Vigilant at HM Naval Base Clyde, Faslane (James Glossop/The Times/PA) This means each vessel is technically capable of carrying 192 warheads, individually possessing the destructive power of eight Hiroshimas, but successive UK governments have limited the submarines to deploying with eight operational missiles and no more than 40 nuclear warheads. A Trident missile can be fired at targets up to 4,000 miles away and can travel at more than 13,000 miles an hour, according to the Royal Navy. The missiles are 13 metres long, weigh 130,000lb (58,500kg) and are ejected from the submarine by high-pressure gas before igniting as they reach the surface of the water. How would Trident be used? The launch of nuclear weapons can only be authorised by the Prime Minister, at which point the coded order would be sent down a command chain to the submarine. Each submarine also holds a letter of last resort with instructions from the Prime Minister, to be read in the event of a catastrophic attack on Westminster. On the appointment of a new Prime Minister, the previous letters must be destroyed unopened. To fire the missiles there is no red button, but rather a trigger fashioned after the handgrip on a Colt Peacemaker pistol. Where is Trident based? HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland, commonly known as Faslane, has been home to the UKs submarine service since the 1960s. Faslane naval base, known officially as HM Naval Base Clyde (Danny Lawson/PA) The Royal Naval Armaments Depot at Coulport on Loch Long, eight miles from Faslane, is responsible for the storage, processing, maintenance and armament of the Trident missile system. Submarine construction takes place at the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, while the nuclear propulsion systems are manufactured by Rolls-Royce in Derby. Babcock International maintains in-service submarines at the naval bases in Faslane and Plymouth. Why do we have Trident? Trident exists to deter a nuclear attack on the UK, for it preserves the potential for a retaliatory strike on an aggressor should Britains domestic defence capabilities be destroyed. Where nations refrain from initiating a nuclear strike knowing it would invariably cause their own annihilation, this concept is referred to as mutually assured destruction (MAD). The UK is one of nine countries known to have nuclear weapons, also including the US, Russia, France, China, India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea. How much does Trident cost the UK? Total acquisition expenditure on the Trident programme in the 1980s was 12.52 billion, which equates to approximately 21 billion in 2022/23 prices, according to figures from the House of Commons Library. Annual in-service costs of the UKs nuclear deterrence are currently estimated at around 6% of the defence budget, which is forecast to be 3 billion for 2023-24. Between 31 billion and 41 billion has been earmarked for replacing the Vanguard-class submarines with the new Dreadnought-class. Why is Trident contentious? Campaigners and politicians have raised concerns over the cost of Trident during a cost-of-living crisis, with the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) claiming the cost of maintaining and replacing the Trident system over its lifespan could reach 205 billion. Jeremy Corbyn said he would refuse to press the nuclear button (Victoria Jones/PA) The Scottish National Party has been a long-standing opponent of Trident, branding the programme immoral, ineffective and expensive. Campaigners have argued that the rise of underwater drones hampers the second-strike reasoning for Trident and funds would be better spent on weapons for conventional warfare such as those needed in Ukraine. The UKs nuclear deterrent has also been criticised on ethical grounds by figures such as Jeremy Corbyn, who as Labour leader said he would refuse to press the nuclear button. Instead, campaigners have called on Britain to set an example by promulgating unilateral nuclear disarmament and pointed to countries such as Canada, Australia and Spain which seem to cope without nuclear weapons. One of Belfasts finest exports is making a sort-of homecoming with a significant exhibition of his work. More than 70 pieces by Sir John Lavery will go on display in the city where he was born in 1859 before he went on to distinguish himself as a painter. Lavery On Location goes on display at the Ulster Museum later this week as a result of a partnership between National Gallery of Ireland and National Galleries of Scotland. In 1929, Lavery gave 34 of his paintings, representing all periods of his career, to the then newly opened Belfast Museum and Art Gallery now the Ulster Museum which included some of his finest portraits, as well as work painted during his time in Morocco, France and America. The exhibition will open later this week (National Museums Northern Ireland/PA) Lavery On Location highlights the artists impressions of the people and places he encountered during a life filled with travel, featuring realistic portraits, genre scenes and landscapes from as far afield as Morocco and Palm Springs to Lough Derg in Co Donegal. The exhibition includes Windy Day described as an example of Sir Johns skill using delicate brushstrokes to convey a sense of movement and energy, reflecting the changing atmosphere of the weather. In addition to his artistic achievements, Sir John also holds a unique place in history as the only Irishman to receive the freedom of both Belfast and Dublin in the inter-war period. Anne Stewart, senior curator of art at National Museums NI, said: Hosting Lavery On Location at the Ulster Museum is a landmark moment for Belfast and holds special significance considering our connection with Lavery, who generously donated a carefully chosen collection of paintings, from all periods of his career, to our museum. The exhibition also celebrates Laverys connection to Belfast, offering visitors new insights and a fresh perspective on his work by bringing together an array of his most notable paintings, including loans from the Musee Rodin and the Musee dOrsay in Paris, and many works from private collections not usually seen by the public. We are thrilled to provide visitors to the Ulster Museum with the opportunity to access these artworks. Kathryn Thomson, chief executive of National Museums NI, said: Lavery On Location is a collaborative masterpiece, thanks to our valued partnerships with National Gallery of Ireland and National Galleries of Scotland. This exhibition pays homage to Sir John Laverys enduring legacy in Belfast and beyond by showcasing an array of his art, including exclusive pieces from private collectors. I look forward to welcoming visitors to Ulster Museum to celebrate and experience this wonderful exhibition for themselves. Lavery On Location will be on display at the Ulster Museum from February 23 until June 9 and is a charging exhibition. For more information and ticket prices visit www.ulstermuseum.org/whats-on/lavery-location. A China-born Australian democracy blogger will not appeal his suspended death sentence imposed by a Beijing court, with his family saying on Wednesday a legal challenge would be detrimental to his welfare. Yang Hengjun was found guilty of espionage following a closed trial and sentenced to death two weeks ago with a two-year reprieve. Such sentences are often commuted to life in prison after two years. A statement from Dr Yangs family and close friends said they strongly supported the 58-year-olds decision to waive his right to appeal. There are two practical reasons why an appeal would be detrimental to Yangs welfare, the statement said. First, there were no grounds to believe the judicial system would remedy his unjust sentence, it said. And second, an appeal would only delay the possibility of Dr Yang receiving adequate medical care after five years of inhumane treatment and neglect in custody, the statement added. Dr Yangs supporters urge Australia to pressure China to release him from prison on medical parole or to transfer him to Australia. Australian foreign minister Penny Wong said her government respected the difficult decision Dr Yang had made to waive his appeal rights and would continue to advocate for him at every opportunity and at the highest levels. I acknowledge the strength that Dr Yangs family and friends have demonstrated through this period, Ms Wong said in a statement. All Australians want to see Dr Yang reunited with his loved ones, Ms Wong added. Dr Yang, a former Chinese diplomat and state security agent who became a political commentator and writer of spy novels in Australia, was detained in January 2019 on arrival in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on a flight from New York with his wife and teenage stepdaughter. He was tried in Beijing in May 2021. The details of his case have not been disclosed. Dr Yang, who became an Australian citizen in 2002, has denied working as a spy for Australia or the United States. In a letter to his sons in August last year, Dr Yang said he had not experienced direct sunlight in more than four years. He told his family he feared he would die in detention after being diagnosed with a kidney cyst, prompting supporters to demand his release for medical treatment. In October last year, Australian journalist Cheng Lei was freed after more than three years in detention in China for breaking an embargo with a television broadcast on a state-run TV network. The plights of Dr Yang and Ms Cheng have frequently been on the agendas of high-level meetings between the countries in recent years. A resident looks for belongings in an apartment building destroyed during fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces in Borodyanka, Ukraine (Vadim Ghirda/AP) EU countries have agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia to target individuals and businesses suspected of assisting Moscow in its war against Ukraine, including Chinese companies. The decision on Wednesday coincides with the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion, which began on February 24 2022, and comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Belgium, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, said the package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. The decision comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny (Kin Cheung/AP) According to several diplomats, EU ambassadors from all member countries agreed to impose sanctions on about 200 companies and individuals. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorised to disclose details about the sanctions, which have yet to be formally adopted. They said several Chinese companies, which are believed to have provided help to Russia, have been sanctioned. Details of the entities targeted will be revealed when the sanctions are published in the EUs legal journal. The EU has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia since President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine. The measures have targeted the energy sector, banks, the worlds biggest diamond mining company, businesses and markets, and made Russian officials subject to asset freezes and travel bans. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said the sanctions would keep the pressure high on the Kremlin (Markus Screiber/AP) The new sanctions will further enhance trade restrictions against entities linked to the Russian military-industrial complex, diplomats said. Additional bans on exports to Russia of highly technical components for drone production were adopted. I welcome the agreement on our 13th sanctions package against Russia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. We must keep degrading Putins war machine. With 2,000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones. Belgium said the package will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved on Saturday, which marks the second anniversary of the war. Nextracker, a global provider of intelligent solar tracker and software solutions, has been chosen by ACWA Power and Larsen & Toubro to provide its all-terrain tracker NX Horizon-XTR for a 1.17 GW installation at Al Kahfah Solar Power Plant in Saudi Arabia. Al Kahfah is one of the three major solar PV Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects being led by Badeel and ACWA Power. This solar plant will provide clean energy to the Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC) as part of the renewable energy projects essential to meet the targets of Vision 2030 and the Ministry of Energys National Renewable Energy Program to increase renewables in the nations energy mix to 50 per cent by 2030. Global construction giant L&T has also been awarded the engineering, procurement, and construction contract for the Al Kahfah Solar Power Plant. The Al Kahfah project will deploy Nextrackers NX Horizon-XTR smart solar tracker systems. The area the solar plant will occupy is dominated by a hilly, hard-soil land surface that would typically require a combination of explosives and grading machines to flatten the land the new solar tracking system will cover. First delivered in 2018 and proven on dozens of utility scale projects successfully operating around the world, Nextrackers all-terrain solar tracker system can conform to the natural terrain to reduce the need for costly land grading while significantly reducing environmental impact. The Al Kahfah project in Saudi Arabia represents Nextrackers largest deployment of its NX Horizon-XTR solar tracker technology in a single order to date. This planned Al Kahfah installation has also contributed to Nextracker achieving a significant milestone in the growing Middle East, India, and Africa (MEIA) solar energy market. This 1.17 GW order further reinforces Nextrackers commitment to this market, having over 10 GW of smart solar trackers either operational or under fulfilment across the region. As part of its support to ACWA Power and the Al Kahfah project, Nextracker has extended its domestic content and capacity development program in the Kingdom. Nextracker has engaged a range of local partners in providing raw material and manufacturing support for its trackers at plants across the region. Nextracker previously partnered with ACWA Power and L&T on the Sudair Solar PV Plant (906 MW) to provide its intelligent solar trackers boosting energy generation for these plants. Dan Shugar, Nextracker founder and CEO said: We are honored to partner again with both ACWA Power and Larsen & Toubro Ltd for another significant project in the region. Our partnership with these two industry leaders has contributed greatly to Nextrackers local commitment with over 10 GW of solar trackers already installed or under fulfilment across the MEIA regions rapidly expanding solar energy market. We are confident that Nextracker will contribute greatly to the Al Kahfah plantyet another example of Saudi government leadership in the energy transition and to the dominance of solar technology driving the transition to renewables in the region. Marco Arcelli, ACWA Power CEO, added: We are looking forward to a successful commissioning of this important new plant to ensure ongoing delivery of reliable, low-cost clean energy for families and businesses. Our partnerships with technology providers such as Nextracker are essential in supporting our role in Saudi Arabias ambitious National Renewable Energy Plan to increase the share of renewables in the countrys energy mix to 50 per cent by 2030. Bharathi Kumar, General Manager (Renewable International) of Larsen & Toubro Construction said: Nextrackers solutions offer great flexibility to configure solar tracking systems at project sites for premium performance. The pre-assembled components, single-row architecture and robotic cleaning compatibility ensure efficient operations and management over the lifecycle of every project. Nextrackers robust design with keen emphasis on wind engineering make its trackers most suitable for the region. --OGN/TradeArabia News Service Former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernandez has appeared in a New York courtroom facing drug trafficking and weapons charges. Hernandez was described by a prosecutor at the start of his trial as a corrupt politician who let his countrys biggest drug traffickers fuel his rise to power. However, he was portrayed by his defence lawyer as a heroic leader who worked with US authorities to fight the drug trade. Hernandez went on trial in a Manhattan federal court two years after his arrest and extradition to the US to face drug trafficking and weapons charges after he had served as president of the Central American nation from 2014 to 2022. During two terms, he was often viewed by Democratic and Republican administrations as beneficial to American interests in the region. Assistant US attorney David Robles briefly pointed at Hernandez, seated in a suit at the defence table, as he claimed that the former president sold himself to drug traffickers in return for their help in securing his political success. For years, he worked hand in hand with some of the largest and most violent drug traffickers in Honduras to send tonne after tonne of cocaine here to the United States, traffickers who fuelled his rise to power with millions of dollars in bribes, Mr Robles said, citing the powerful Sinaloa cartel in Mexico among Hernandezs allies. In return, the prosecutor said, he abused his power to enlist the Honduras military, its police and its justice system to protect and support drug traffickers. At one point, Hernandez even boasted at a meeting with drug dealers that together they were going to shove the drugs right up the noses of the gringos, of the Americans, Mr Robles said. In this courtroom sketch, former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernandez, seated left at the defence table, looks at prospective jurors who are waiting to speak with Judge P Kevin Castel (Elizabeth Williams via AP) Defence lawyer Renato Stabile, though, said Hernandez first ran as a congressman representing his rural home province in western Honduras because he wanted to rid his country of the scourge of the drug trade. He became president of the National Congress before he became president. Mr Stabile warned jurors to be wary of government witnesses, particularly several men who had killed dozens of individuals and are hoping their evidence will win them leniency at sentencing. If you look around this courtroom, the number of people they have killed is probably more than everyone sitting here right now, he told jurors in the packed courtroom, saying some witnesses they will see had tortured people and killed children. These are depraved people. These are psychopaths. These are people not worthy of your trust and belief, Mr Stabile said. The lawyer said Honduras was the murder capital of the world a year before Hernandez became president and reduced the murder rate by more than 50% as he stood up to gangs and drug cartels. Mr Stabile said his client agreed to extradite two dozen individuals to the US to face criminal charges, though three people escaped. Mr Hernandez doesnt sit down with drug dealers. He stood up to drug dealers, the lawyer said of a married man with four children who has a masters degree from the State University of New York at Albany. The defence lawyer told jurors they will hear a lot during the trial about the ex-presidents brother, Juan Antonio Tony Hernandez, a former Honduran congressman who was sentenced in 2021 in Manhattan federal court to life in prison for his own conviction on drug charges. Prosecutors say Tony Hernandez secured and distributed millions of dollars in bribes from 2004 to 2019 from drug dealers for his countrys politicians, including 1 million dollars from notorious Mexican capo Joaquin El Chapo Guzman for Juan Orlando Hernandez. The former president was arrested at his home in Tegucigalpa, the Honduran capital, in February 2022 just three months after leaving office and was extradited to the US in April of that year. Two men look at flames after a natural gas pipeline explodes outside the city of Boroujen in Iran (Reza Kamali Dehkordi/AP) An Israeli sabotage attack on an Iranian natural gas pipeline caused multiple explosions that struck it a week ago, Irans oil minister has claimed, further raising tensions amid Israels war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The comments by Irans oil minister Javad Owji come as Israel has been blamed for a series of attacks targeting Tehrans nuclear program. The explosion of the gas pipeline was an Israeli plot, Mr Owji said, according to Irans state-run IRNA news agency. Flames leap into the air after a natural gas pipeline explodes outside the city of Boroujen in Iran (Reza Kamali Dehkordi/AP) He added: The enemy intended to disturb gas service in the provinces and put peoples gas distribution at risk. The evil action and plot by the enemy was properly managed. Mr Owji provided no evidence to support his claims. Israel has not acknowledged carrying out the attack, though the country rarely claims its espionage missions abroad. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet responded to a request for comment. The blasts on February 14 hit a natural gas pipeline running from Irans western Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province up north to cities on the Caspian Sea. The roughly 1,270-kilometre (790 mile) pipeline begins in Asaluyeh, a hub for Irans offshore South Pars gas field. Mr Owji earlier compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 including around the anniversary of Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tensions over Irans nuclear program come as groups that Tehran is arming in the region Lebanons militant group Hezbollah and Yemens Houthi rebels have launched attacks targeting Israel over the war in Gaza. The Houthis continue to attack commercial shipping in the region, sparking repeated airstrikes from the US and the UK. Despite a month of US-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they seriously damaged a ship in a crucial strait and downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. On Wednesday, ships in the Red Sea off the Houthi-held port city of Hodeida in Yemen reported seeing an explosion, though all vessels in the area were said to be safe, according to the British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centres. The UKMTO earlier reported heavy drone activity in the area. Meanwhile, a suspected Israeli strike killed two people in a neighbourhood in Syrias capital, Damascus, on Wednesday, an area where other likely Israeli strikes have targeted members of Irans paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. A liberal Russian politician has lost another appeal against election officials decision to bar him from running in next months presidential vote. Boris Nadezhdin had made a call for halting the conflict in Ukraine his main campaign slogan and authorities refusal to register him for the race underlined the Kremlins repugnance of any public opposition to its action. Wednesdays court verdict that turned down Mr Nadezhdins appeal follows Fridays death of chief Kremlin foe Alexei Navalny in a remote Arctic prison that caused global outrage and dealt a heavy blow to the beleaguered Russian opposition. Mr Nadezhdin had made ending the fighting in Ukraine his chief campaign pledge (AP Photo, File) After a day of deliberations, Russias Supreme Court ruled to reject Mr Nadezhdins appeal against the Central Election Commissions decision to bar him from the March 15-17 presidential election. The court previously turned down his two other appeals related to technical aspects of the commissions move. Mr Nadezhdin said he would appeal the ruling. Thousands of Russians across the country signed petitions in support of Mr Nadezhdins candidacy, an unusual show of support in the rigidly controlled political landscape. Mr Nadezhdin, a local legislator from a town near Moscow, submitted 105,000 signatures to the Central Election Commission to qualify for the race. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to win the election in March (Alexander Zemlianichenko, Pool/AP) The commission declared earlier this month that more than 9,000 signatures submitted by Mr Nadezhdins campaign were invalid enough to disqualify him. Russias election rules say potential candidates can have no more than 5% of their submitted signatures thrown out. Russian President Vladimir Putin, 71, who is running as an independent candidate, relies on a tight control over Russias political system that he has established during 24 years in power. With prominent critics who could challenge him either jailed or living abroad and most independent media banned, Mr Putins re-election is all but assured. He faces a token opposition from three other candidates nominated by Kremlin-friendly parties represented in parliament. Israeli air strikes hit a neighbourhood in the Syrian capital on Wednesday morning, killing two people and causing material damage, Syrias state TV said. There was no confirmation of the strikes from Israel. In neighbouring Lebanon, state media and security officials said an Israeli air strike killed two people, including a young girl, triggering a rocket attack on a village in northern Israel by the militant Hezbollah group. Syrian state TV reported that several missiles hit the western neighbourhood of Kfar Sousseh but did not elaborate or say who were the people killed. The pro-government Sham FM radio station said the strike hit a building near an Iranian school. Sana, the state news agency, quoted an unnamed military official as saying that the missiles were fired from the direction of Syrias Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and hit a building, killing two civilians and wounding another. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based opposition war monitor, said the two killed were inside an apartment but did not give any clues about their identities. He added that the strike was similar to last months killing in Beirut of Saleh Arouri, a top official with the militant Palestinian Hamas group. A man sweeps rubble near a residential building after a reported Israeli attack on Syria (Omar Sanadiki/AP) According to The Associated Press reporter on site, the strike damaged the fourth floor of a 10-storey building, shattered window glass on nearby buildings and also damaged dozens of cars parked in the area. An empty parked bus for the nearby Al-Bawader Private School was also damaged and people were seen rushing to the school to take their children. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of war-torn Syria in recent years. It rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria but has previously said it targets bases of Iran-allied militant groups, such as Lebanons Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assads forces. Last month, an Israeli strike on the Syrian capitals western neighbourhood of Mazzeh destroyed a building used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, killing at least five Iranians. In December, an Israeli air strike on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Seyed Razi Mousavi, a long-time adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria. Israel has also targeted Palestinian and Lebanese operatives in Syria over the past years. Lebanons state-run National News Agency said an Israeli air strike on the southern village of Majdal Zoun killed on Wednesday a woman and her daughter. A girl looks out from a window of a residential building after a reported Israeli attack on Syria (Omar Sanadiki/AP) This came after a series of strikes overnight, including one on Safi Mountain in the Hezbollah stronghold of Apple Province and another near the southern town of Khiam. NNA identified the woman killed as Khadija Salman, 40. Security officials speaking on condition of anonymity, in line with regulations, identified her seven-year-old daughter who later succumbed to her wounds, as Amal al-Dur. Hezbollah said in the afternoon that its fighters attacked with rockets the northern Israeli village of Matsuva in retaliation. The Iran-backed Hezbollah has been striking at Israeli posts along the border since the Israel-Hamas war broke out following the October 7 attack by Palestinian militants on southern Israel. More than 200 people, the vast majority of them Hezbollah fighters, have been killed in Lebanon since the latest round of violence broke out more than four months ago. The dead include more than 30 civilians. On Wednesday as well, Lebanons foreign minister Abdallah Bouhabib held a meeting in Beirut with US senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Coons. He said: We ask that Israel gives peace a chance rather than going on with the policy of war. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by head of LucidTalk Bill White, Political commentator Alex Kane, and Belfast Telegraph reporter Allison Morris For some, constitutional change is now in sight but for others it is as far away as ever but whats the truth of it? The results of the latest Belfast Telegraph LucidTalk polls have fanned the flames of the debate over a United Ireland. For some its now in sight but for others it is as far away as ever. So whats the truth of it? In terms of party support, the DUP is down 4 points to 24% following Jeffrey Donaldson steering the party back in to the executive - 25% of DUP voters believe that a Stormont return was the wrong decision. First Minister Michelle ONeills popularity sits at an all-time high, with 54% of voters giving her a Good/Great rating. And Alliance has seen a dip in support with 14% of voters now saying they support the party. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by head of LucidTalk Bill White, political commentator Alex Kane, and Belfast Telegraph reporter Allison Morris. Wiki Commons Anxiety afflicts countless people and is one most common and distressing causes of suffering. Christians are not immune to it. Proverbs 12:25 mentions anxiety directly, Anxiety in the heart of man causes anxiety, but a good word makes it glad. Those suffering from anxiety can experience intense feelings of sadness, anger, hopelessness, fatigue, and various other symptoms. Anxiety is often triggered by life circumstances and can pull you into the pit. There are numerous biblical references to anxiety. Scripture describes the struggles of people who suffered from anxiety, even though they were faithful servants of God. These men did not suffer because they were sinners. They suffered because they were human and were susceptible to severe pressures. The first humans to express anxiety likely were Adam and Eve after they sinned against God. Fortunately, many Christians suffering from anxiety can find hope in biblical foundations. Here are six biblical figures who struggled with anxiety. Martha Martha is a significant New Testament figure, a friend of Jesus, and someone many women can identify. She is mentioned in Scripture three times. She lived in Bethany with her sister, Mary, and her brother, Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead. The story she is commonly associated with is one referenced in Luke 10. She is in Bethany, a small town near Jerusalem, where she is hosting Jesus and the disciples. Jesus was known to Martha and her siblings. On the day that Jesus visited, Martha was focused on being a good hostess, for Jesus sake. Her sister, Mary, however, was taking the time to listen to Jesus. This brought Martha great anxiety, which many of us can relate to. Luke 10:40-42 says, Martha, burdened with much serving, came to Him and said, Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me. The Lord said to her in reply, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken from here. In Marthas life, we see the importance of balancing service with worship. Job Job suffered from anxiety after many personal losses. First, he lost his material possessions, then all of his children. Then he was devastated by a grievous physical affliction. He broke out in painful boils. The Bible tells us, Job opens his mouth and cursed the day of his birthWhy did I not die at birth, come forth from the womb, and expire?... Why is light given to him who suffers, and life to the bitter soul, who long for death, but there is note...[they] exalt when they find grace. I am not at ease, nor am I quiet, and I am not at rest, but turmoil comes (Job 2:1,11,20-22,26). Job is in a battle in which he does not understand why God is permitting his suffering. He accuses God of being the cause of it. Yet, Jobs endurance glorified God for it answered Satans challenge and showed the unseen spirits, as well as men, then and throughout the ages, that Gods people serve Him, not a mere return for spiritual benefits but because of who He is. Jonah Possibly the reason for this was because Assyria was a continual threat to Israels existence, and the prophet hoped that this threat would disappear in their destruction. This is seen in Jonahs words, Therefore now O Lord, take, I pray thee, my life from me for it is better for me to die than to live (Jonah 4:3). The truth is, Jonah could have rejoiced in the forgiveness extended to the Ninevites, but his self-pity blinded his eyes to the mercy of God. King David Even kings suffer with anxiety. King David was a man after Gods own heart (Acts 13:22). Israels most illustrious kind a giant killer from his youth and here was also a man given to anxiety amid his suffering. As related in some of the Psalms, the anxieties of David stem from any of several probable causes. If you have ever been anxious, you know the symptoms: faintness of heart, endless days, sleepless nights, tears, obsessive fear, and numbness, to name a few. As you read the Psalms, you realize that King David experienced many of the same anxiety symptoms. Yet, even during his anxiety, David is still able to sing praises to God. Elijah Elijah grew anxious when he was rebuked while he was anticipating a moment of triumph. His lofty hopes were crushed; he became sick at heart. Up until this point, Elijah had been the epitome of spiritual courage. He now collapses, runs away when Israel most needs his leadership, possibly missing the chance for national repentance, and turns suicidal. He suffered from spiritual anxiety a specific kind of anxiety that is related to commitment to God. Elijahs anxiety, along with many other biblical characters, alerts us that being committed to God, does not necessarily exempt us from being anxious. Moses Moses was worn out. He was weary. He had a lot on him. Think about it. God had come to him in the desert in a burning bush that was not consumed and had told Moses to go get the children of Israel and bring them out of Egypt. Moses tried to tell God that he was not the man for the job. He just knew that God was mistaken. Then God went ahead and insisted. Moses obeyed God and returned to Egypt, he had won the support of his people and confronted Pharaoh on their behalf in the Lords name, and He had done everything right, to the very best of his ability. Then, it all went wrong. At that point, Moses cried out in hopelessness and despair, filled with feelings of futility. He felt that God had let them down. But the truth is, Moses whole ministry would never have come into being if he had not cried out to God from within his earlier anxiety. We can learn a lot from these six biblical figures who struggled with anxiety. Though they suffered, these men recovered and went on with their lives, serving God. Those who are anxious spend a lot of time sleeping and, in the darkness, rather than the light. Gods Word encourages us to come out of the darkness and concentrate on Him. When we do this, we can find true peace and joy in Him. Lesli White is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth with a Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and a concentration in print and online journalism. In college, she took a number of religious studies courses and harnessed her talent for storytelling. White has a rich faith background. Her father, a Lutheran pastor and life coach was a big influence in her faith life, helping her to see the value of sharing the message of Christ with others. She has served in the church from an early age. Some of these roles include assisting ministry, mutual ministry, worship and music ministry and church council. Environmental activists Jhed Tamano (left) and Jonila Castro (right) arrive at the Commission on Human Rights headquarters 17 days after they were allegedly kidnapped by the military, in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Sept. 19, 2023. The Philippine governments top lawyer has requested the Supreme Court to withdraw a protection order it granted two environmentalists who last year accused the military of abducting them. The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) told the court that the protection order prevented the police from serving arrest warrants for alleged oral defamation on the green activists, Jhed Tamano, 21, and Jonila Castro, 22, according to a motion dated Feb. 20 and released Wednesday. The court last week had granted the activists request for two protective writs and the subsequent temporary protection order, saying the duo had successfully showed there were threats to their life and security A literal interpretation of the TPO [the protection order] ostensibly restricts all Philippine National Police personnel from accessing areas within a one-kilometer radius of the Petitioners and their families, according to the OSGs motion. This place[s] the law enforcers in the precarious situation of defying one judicial order in deference to another judicial order, it added, referring to a municipal court order to issue arrest warrants against the activists. These developments relate to a case from last September, when the activists Tamano and Castro claimed that troops in Bataan province had kidnapped them and accused them of being linked to leftist insurgents. The two, who are university students, had been protesting China-backed reclamation projects in Manila Bay, but went missing in the first week of September. They also accused the military of forcing them to sign statements saying they were communist rebels. The army had immediately denied these accusations, saying the two had voluntarily sought the militarys protection and signed affidavits claiming they wanted to leave the communist movement. The duo spoke out at a press meet organized by the anti-communist task force, whose members were taken by surprise at the accusations. The governments National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) had expected that the activists would disprove leftist groups accusations that they had been abducted. The task force said it stood by the militarys report that Castro and Tamano surrendered. The military then filed oral defamation charges against the activists for showing the Philippine military in a bad light. Our just fight On Wednesday, Tamano and Castro alleged that they were being persecuted by the government for causing embarrassment to the security forces. The only criminals here are the AFP and the NTF-ELCAC, the two said in a statement, referring to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The NTF-ELCAC is an inter-agency body meant to encourage communist guerrillas to surrender but has been accused in recent years of falsely accusing government critics of being insurgents. The crime here is the suppression of the publics rights, the activists said. We should continue to assert our rights while advocating for our just fight. The women had earlier explained that they were part of a consortium opposing reclamation projects because fishermen could lose their livelihoods. Jerusalem, Feb 21 (UNI) At least two people died and six wounded in an Israeli attack on a Gaza shelter housing Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres, MSF) staff and their families, the organisation said on Wednesday. "Tonight Israeli forces conducted an operation in Al Mawasi, Khan Younis, #Gaza, where a shelter hosting MSF staff and their families was shelled. While details are still emerging, ambulance crews have now reached the site, where at least two family members of our colleagues have been killed and six people wounded. We are horrified by what has taken place," the organisation wrote on X. In early January, the MSF said its shelter in Khan Yunis, housing more than 100 staff and their families, was hit by an airstrike, injuring four people. On October 7, 2023, the Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip and breached the border, killing 1,200 people and abducting around 240 others. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. At least 29,000 people have been killed so far in the Gaza Strip, local authorities said. On November 24, Qatar mediated a deal between Israel and Hamas on a temporary truce and the exchange of some of the prisoners and hostages, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza. UNI/SPUTNIK XC SY Erawan bombing suspects Adem Karadag (center) and Yusufu Mieraili (behind Karadag) are escorted by prison officers to a military court in Bangkok, Feb. 16, 2016. A judge on Wednesday ordered Thailands corrections system to provide two Uyghur terrorism suspects with the Halal food they have been requesting for years, as the pair appeared in court visibly emaciated and in wheelchairs. Defendants Adem Karadag and Yusufu Mieraili are accused of carrying out the Aug. 17, 2015, bombing at the Erawan Shrine in central Bangkok that killed 20 people and injured scores more, just weeks after Thai authorities forcibly sent almost 100 Uyghur Muslims to China. They have been in custody since their arrests within two weeks of the attack. Mieraili shared that he, at 35, and Karadag, at 39, have significantly deteriorated in health, losing over 10 kg [22 pounds] due to stomach pains and chronic bloating caused by poor living conditions and inconvenient meal arrangements. The pair the only two inmates housed at a temporary detention center within a military zone would skip some meals because they were not provided Halal food as per Islamic principles. For three years, they didnt provide us Halal food. We told them we dont eat pork, yet they still served it to us, claiming there was no pork. When we ate, we found minced pork and chicken blood. We cant eat that. We wanted them to arrange proper meals for us, Mieraili told the judge. His statement proved effective. The court will instruct the Department of Corrections to ensure that prisoners are provided food according to their religious rights. Religion is a delicate matter, and a letter will be sent to the prison to arrange Halal food for the defendants as they are entitled, the judge ruled. Karadag and Mieraili made similar requests for Halal food during court appearances in January 2022 and again in August 2023 the last time they appeared in court. They returned to the Bangkok court on Tuesday and are expected to attend hearings through Friday. Since being taken into custody, Mieraili has become fluent in Thai and is able to communicate with his lawyer and interact with prison officials. In court, he served as an interpreter for Karadag who is less proficient in Thai. Karadag had to have seven teeth extracted recently and now wears dentures. He has been unable to walk for over six months due to lack of strength, experiencing dizziness upon standing. I had to undergo hernia surgery last week and have been advised by the hospital to remain for another two weeks. Currently, Adem is the only one in the temporary military prison, Mieraili told BenarNews before the court session began. On Wednesday, defense lawyer Choochat Kanphai said the pair wanted to be transferred from the temporary detention center to the Bangkok Special Prison because they thought living conditions and food would be better, but he was told that such requests were beyond the courts jurisdiction. Before court, the attorney spoke to BenarNews about the slow pace of the trial. With 50 witnesses already examined out of a list of approximately 100, we expect the verdict could be read next year, Choochat said. A man prays at the Erawan Shrine at the Rajprasong intersection, the scene of a deadly bombing, in Bangkok a week earlier, Aug. 24, 2015. [Sakchai Lalit/AP] Trial history Following their arrests, Karadag and Mieraili saw their trial begin in a military court only to have the case transferred to the Southern Bangkok Criminal Court. This shift occurred after Prayuth Chan-o-cha, the army general who became prime minister after leading a military coup in 2014, was formally elected into office in 2019. The defendants, who identified as Uyghurs from Urumqi in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) in China, pleaded not guilty in both the military and civilian courts. They could face execution if convicted of charges, which include premeditated killing and possession of explosives. Chalida Tajaroensuk, director of the Peoples Empowerment Foundation, has been monitoring the case over the years and said the likelihood of reaching a verdict in the near future had improved. The case has made progress, and it seems that the court is genuinely intent on concluding the case promptly. Orders were given for the prosecution and defense to eliminate unnecessary witnesses, Chalida said. The defenses rigorous questioning aimed at proving discrepancies between actual physical evidence and passport information has raised hopes that both defendants could be acquitted. However, everything ultimately depends on the courts judgment. She expressed her hope for increased attention from civil society and the international community regarding the future of the two if they are acquitted. The concern is what happens next for them if they are released. If China seeks their repatriation, it becomes problematic given their decade-long struggle, she said. We need to collectively consider how to handle this situation, including the possibility of another country offering them asylum, which could ensure their safety. Up to 1,000 Ukrainian troops believed to be captured in retreat from Avdiivka Moscow, Feb 21 (UNI) Between 850 and 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers appear to have been captured or are unaccounted for during the Ukrainian retreat from Avdiivka, a former Ukrainian stronghold north of the city of Donetsk, The New York Times reported on Tuesday, citing two Ukrainian soldiers. The newspaper cited senior Western officials and soldiers fighting in Ukraine as saying that the retreat of Ukrainian troops from Avdiivka is a devastating loss that could deal a blow to already weakening morale and may be more significant than it initially seemed. The report also cited officials as saying that the Ukrainian withdrawal was ill-planned and began too late, but American officials told the newspaper that the loss of Avdiivka was not a significant strategic setback. Bennington, VT (05201) Today Cloudy. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High around 40F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Occasional snow showers. Low 28F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. BENNINGTON Southwestern Vermont Medical Center has launched a comprehensive health assessment of the communities it serves in three states, seeking feedback through a short, anonymous survey, open to all. SVMC is encouraging residents in Bennington and Windham counties of Vermont, eastern Rensselaer and Washington counties of New York and northern Berkshire County in Massachusetts to take the brief survey, now available at SVMC.org. In addition to the digital survey, SVMC will be conducting in-person community outreach to collect responses. The voices of our patients and community at large help set SVMCs priorities over the next three years, said Pamela Duchene, the medical centers chief nursing officer and vice president of Patient Care Services. Thats why it is vitally important we hear from all community members, at every level, to ensure we understand the challenges they are facing and the ways our health system can make an impact. The online survey includes questions about the persons general health, the reasons someone might not be able to access health care when needed; issues in affording adequate food or paying for utilities; access to transportation and opportunities for physical activity; whether the person feels save, lonely or anxious, or is struggling with addiction; has access to health insurance; their level or education or training; and whether the person is employed full- or part-time or self-employed. Every three years Conducted every three years, the institutions Community Health Needs Assessment process allows SVMC, a member of Dartmouth Health, to understand the current health needs of its region, assess the services available to residents, and identify where and how improvements can be made. Community leaders throughout SVMCs tri-state region will also receive a Leadership Scan, requesting insight on the needs of populations these leaders work with and serve. The health assessment will be open through early spring 2024. 2022 assessment In a report on the most recent needs assessment survey in 2021-22, the medical center collected community health and wellness data, gathered from a variety of sources, including a digital survey, a series of community forums and secondary data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The survey process from that assessment identified the following priority health needs categories, to be addressed over the next three years: Mental Health Supports; Promotion of Healthy Behaviors and Primary Prevention Activities; Accessibility of High-Quality, Convenient, and Affordable Care, and Substance Use Prevention, Harm Reduction, Treatment, and Recovery Resources. Assessment results in the prior report revealed that some populations are more likely to face negative outcomes relating to the social, environmental, economic determinants of health. The data clearly indicated that people of color, individuals aged 13 to 34 years old, and the LGBTQ+ population are facing modifiable health disparities relating to all four of the priority health needs, a hospital spokesperson said in 2022. Our efforts to meet those needs in the coming years, while broadly focused across our entire service area, will additionally seek to address the unique challenges experienced by minority, marginalized, and vulnerable populations. SVMC includes Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center, the SVHC Foundation, as well as 25 primary and specialty care practices. WILLIAMSTOWN With its first overnight guests staying last weekend, Mezze Guesthouse brings back a historic use to the building that houses Mezze Bistro + Bar. Mezze Hospitality Group co-owner Nancy Thomas said it was always the intention to rent out rooms above Mezze Bistro + Bar after the restaurant relocated from Water Street to the 777 Cold Spring Road venue in 2011. Now, the tradition set by Le Jardin, which operated as both an inn and restaurant in the same space years ago, continues. At the front door, which is adjacent to restaurant, the entrance and upstairs underwent a yearlong overhaul, a gut that went down to the studs. Each decision was made in a collaboration that Thomas led with an eye toward mid-century modern architecture and design. Patrick McBride, creative director of Tillett Textiles of Sheffield, termed the process a workshop. She has a beautiful sense of aesthetic, McBride said of Thomas. She has a pretty keen discerning eye for quality. The hallway is covered in white-on-white Aurora wallpaper designed by McBrides grandmother, D.D. Tillett, who with her husband Leslie, founded the company. The pattern, dating to the early 1960s, calls to mind shells. In guest suites, theres a blue and white floral wallpaper designed by Leslie Tillett. D.D. Tilletts artistry can be seen in the suites. Framed prints of her line drawings of nudes are in the bedrooms. Original abstract and colorful geometric paintings by New York City artist Noah Post also hang in the suites. One has a sculpture by the late North Adams artist Vaal London-Kane. The guesthouse interior was designed by Williamstown architect Ann McCallum of Burr & McCallum Architects. Chris Lloyd oversaw the year-long construction for Moresi & Associates of North Adams. There are cotton afghans on the beds made in Scotland and woolen rugs on the floors, both adding dashes of color to an otherwise muted palette. Peter Thorne of West Stockbridge carved the rounded headboards, calling to mind the curves in the Aurora wallpaper of the hallway. Bathrooms are tiled in white with a blush patch in the shower. We want the space to be calm and comfortable, Thomas said. The kitchenettes in each of the five units are stocked with Bola Granola made in Great Barrington and Gammelgarden Skyr made in Pownal, Vt. Taking a page from the post-pandemic world where a guest might prefer to come and go without meeting a host the guesthouse has contactless lodging. By design there is no face-to-face interaction with staff. Enter technology. Guests of the boutique guesthouse will get a text with their passcode to punch into the keypad outside the locked front door. They will lug their own bags up a flight of carpeted stairs. Guests who want additional towels will communicate that, or any other need, again by text. There is no room service and nor does the five-room guesthouse have an elevator or handicap access. Bo Peabody, co-owner of Mezze Hospitality Group, spoke of his experience as a guest in a contactless setting. I'm in a hotel right now, as we speak, called The Blake in New Mexico, Peabody told The Eagle. It's all via text. And so it's really nice, right? It's just easier for me. It's easier for them. He feels comfortable coming and going without worrying that hell inconvenience or wake anyone. Still, Peabody notes that at Mezze Guesthouse, staff may be able to offer a bit more contact particularly for guests who book the entire guesthouse for an event. Research prior to opening included a consultation with the owner of Reclaimed Motel in Red Hook, N.Y., who has found success using a contactless model. Peabody said he feels this guesthouse will complement the lodging offerings available in Williamstown. Rooms start at $250 per night and go up to $1,200 for the full takeover of all five rooms. He identified four potential markets: people connected to Williams College, tourists interested in the arts or outdoor recreation and those drawn to Mezze Bistro + Bar as a culinary destination, who wish to stay overnight on site following their prix fixe dinner. Mezze Hospitality Group includes 28-year-old Mezze Bistro + Bar, Bluebird & Co in Hancock, which opened in 2023, and Mezze Events, which offers full-service events. At the height of the summer, the group can employ as many as 300 on a heavy weekend. Lodging is really the only place that we can grow because it doesnt require as much staff as the other two, Peabody said. That's really the issue in northern Berkshires: Finding qualified hospitality staff is a challenge. Lodging gives us the ability to have a business line that we can put some scale into that doesn't require the number of people. It requires a bigger capital investment, but it doesn't require the number of people on a day-to-day basis. This is like a pilot, Thomas said of the guesthouse. To have these five rooms was a no-brainer, but if we're good at it, we'd like to look at more lodging in the future. Darrel Galorenzo is led into Berkshire Superior Court for a hearing after his arrest last April. Berkshire District Attorney Timothy Shugrue recommended up to 15 years in prison for the Readsboro, Vt., man accused of manslaughter in the 2023 death of his son. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Sanaa, Feb 21 (UNI) Yemen's Houthi group said on Tuesday that they had launched a missile attack against "an Israeli ship" in the Gulf of Aden. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement that the targeted ship is called "MSC Silver," and his group hit it with several missiles. Sarea added his group fired several bomb-laden drones toward Israel's southern city of Eilat as well as several U.S. warships in the Red Sea. There are no immediate comments from either the U.S. or the Israeli side. The Houthis have stepped up their attacks on international shipping since mid-November last year, saying they were in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza who faced intense Israeli attacks. The U.S.-British forces have responded with dozens of airstrikes on Houthi targets, including mobile missile launchers and underwater drones, but have failed to deter the group from launching more attacks. UNI/XINHUA ARN Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter NORTH ADAMS Cultural institutions and the like often throw around phrases like "being community partners. But thanks to a recent $1 million grant, the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art has the means to turn that phrase into reality. This effort puts those words into action, North Adams Mayor Jennifer Macksey said Tuesday. The museum announced last week that a Boston-based arts organization, the Barr Foundation, had awarded the money so that the institution can contribute to ongoing local efforts regarding infrastructure, housing and other issues. In a news release, Mass MoCA Director Kristy Edmunds noted reflected back on the museum's charter, drafted 25 years ago, which envisioned direct economic impact through the creative economy and cultural tourism" as part of the institution's mission. "Mass MoCA has grown to become an anchor institution for the city, region and state," she said. "We actively participate in both our local communities civic aspirations and in identifying solutions to challenges, which require continuous engagement, mutual innovation and dedicated investment. More specifically, the money will go toward staff dedicated to working with the city, as well as research consultant expertise on major infrastructure projects, such as the Hoosic River Revival/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study on the citys aging flood control system. Because of its close proximity or relation to other infrastructure projects, the museum will have an active role in as a coordinator or participant. Those projects include an exploration of possibilities for the Route 2 overpass, the design and routing of the planned Williamstown-North Adams Adventure Bike Trail, and public advocacy for the ailing Hoosic River flood chutes. This opportunity presents an excellent opportunity for Mass MoCA and the city to partner on many important projects such as the bike path, overpass and community relations, Macksey said. I applaud Kristy Edmunds and her team for pursuing this application, and look forward to seeing how this will benefit the community at large. The Route 2 overpass, also known as the Veterans Memorial Bridge, flies over Marshall Street, and cuts between Mass MoCA and much of downtown. A $750,000 federal grant awarded last year has been looking at whether removing it or redesigning it could help better connect the two areas. The state Department of Transportation recently designated the bridge as structurally deficient. Mass MoCAs residency programs will also benefit from the money, as the museum would like to expand and think differently about its on-site artist housing and studio spaces. The grant will also be spent on reducing its environmental impact and generally supporting economic development. The museum has long offered spaces for tenants, usually small businesses or organizations, on its campus. With the grant in hand, the museum is assessing design upgrades with the intention of adding benefit to current and future tenants through a diverse creative campus strategy, including mission-aligned creative businesses that facilitate connection and collaboration. A housing forum hosted by Queer Men of the Berkshires on Feb. 25 highlighted county issues with affordable housing and saw a number of the group's members brainstorming creative solutions to the problem. Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! 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Advertisement A company representing Amber Note Unlimited Co, the parent firm which constituted the Davy Group, claimed BoI failed to make a post-completion (of the sale) payment first due in January 2023. As a result, that company, Ailmount Investments Ltd, which held the legal interest in Amber Note on behalf of 722 investors, sued Bank of Ireland Nominee 1 Ltd and that firm's guarantor of the payment, the Governor and Company of BoI. As part of its preparation for the hearing, Ailmount sought discovery of certain documents from the BoI defendants which were refused. Advertisement Mr Justice Michael Twomey was asked to adjudicate on the discovery dispute and, on Wednesday, ordered BoI to provide the documents sought. Advertisement The judge said the Davy Group was sold under the terms of a share purchase agreement between Ailmount and the two BoI defendants. The question to be determined at the main trial will come down to a question of contractual interpretation of a clause in the purchase agreement, he said. 'Uplift' The judge said the agreement provides for the possibility of an increase in the purchase price, based on the fact that around the time of the sale of the Davy Group, there was a change in the law regarding investment firms. This change meant that there was likely to be a reduction in the capital requirements of Davy, known as the Consolidated Capital Resources Requirement (CCRR). Advertisement If those new regulations led to a reduction in capital requirements for Davy, then Ailmount would be paid an "uplift" on the purchase price. Ailmount pleads that it understands that Davy submitted its capital requirements to the Central Bank in the sum of some 47.5 million. Applying the formula in the relevant clause, it was then owed some 19.7 million, it said. BoI argues that the amount payable by it to Ailmount under the clause in the purchase agreement is zero. Advertisement In particular, BoI claims that it never received any confirmation in writing from the Central Bank on or before December 31st, 2022, of the capital requirements/CCRR of the Davy Group, and so it does not have to pay Ailmount any money. Advertisement In its discovery application, Ailmount sought copies of all regulatory capital returns filed by Davy for 2022. It also sought any other documents evidencing or recording the amount of, or the calculation of, or the means of calculation, of the 2022 CCRR amount or the Consolidated Capital Resources Requirement. Discovery It also sought any communications, recording, and/or evidence discussing the Davy Group capital resource requirements or the Davy Groups regulatory capital returns. BoI opposed the application. Advertisement Mr Justice Twomey ordered BoI make discovery of the documents sought by Ailmount subject to the temporal limits sought by it. He said it was clear that engagement by the Davy Group with third parties, including the Central Bank, regarding, in particular, the CCRR, was at the heart of the dispute. Yet, thus far, he said, BoI has refused to disclose the nature of the confirmation, if any, it sought from the Central Bank regarding the CCRR. It did so on the basis that it felt that the question did not "arise from the matters pleaded", he said. It was, he said, important to bear in mind that the basic purpose of discovery is to ensure as far as possible that justice on full information may be done, combined with the fact that the capital requirements of the Davy Group is clearly an issue in dispute. It was also important to bear in mind that there can be a public interest involved in discovery orders being granted, namely the efficient use of court resources, he said. Sir Sam Mendes will direct four films about The Beatles, each told from the perspective of a different band member. The project marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Ringo Starr, and the families of John Lennon and George Harrison have granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film. Advertisement Sir Sam said: Im honoured to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies. Sir Sam Mendes. Photo: Ian West/PA. The 1917 director will also produce the films under his Neal Street Productions banner alongside its co-founder Dame Pippa Harris, the former chair of Bafta, and Julie Pastor. Advertisement The films will be financed and distributed worldwide by Sony Pictures with full cinema releases in 2027. Advertisement Sony said the information about the dating of the releases, which will be announced closer to the time, will be innovative and groundbreaking. Dame Pippa said: We intend this to be a uniquely thrilling, and epic cinematic experience: four films, told from four different perspectives, which tell a single story about the most celebrated band of all time. Advertisement Dame Pippa Harris. Photo: Ian West/PA. To have The Beatles and Apple Corps blessing to do this is an immense privilege. From our first meeting with Tom Rothman and Elizabeth Gabler (of Sony), it was clear that they shared both our passion and ambition for this project, and we cant think of a more perfect home than Sony Pictures. Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures motion picture group, added: I know I speak for our CEO Tony Vinciquerra, who was instrumental in making this happen, and every Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group colleague around the world, when I say: Yeah, yeah, yeah! Advertisement Theatrical movie events today must be culturally seismic. Sams daring, large-scale idea is that, and then some. Pairing his premier filmmaking team, with the music and the stories of four young men who changed the world, will rock audiences all over the globe. We are deeply grateful to all parties and look forward ourselves to breaking some rules with Sams uniquely artistic vision. TV presenter Dan Wootton has said two police forces will take no further action after investigations into criminal allegations against him. The New Zealand-born broadcaster said in a statement that he had been completely cleared after the investigations by London's Metropolitan Police and Police Scotland. Advertisement In a statement issued by his lawyer, he said: I have now been completely cleared in two investigations by the Metropolitan and Scottish Police, who have confirmed they will be taking no further action. While I knew this would always be the outcome, the process is now the punishment, with social media acting as the executioner. Advertisement Margaret Thatcher once said that if you ever get trial by media, or guilt by accusation, that day freedom dies. She was right. It is high time that all of our ancient rights were once again upheld, chief among them the right to be presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law. Advertisement If it falls to me to be the champion of those rights, then so be it. It is a fight I am more than willing to take up, not just for me but for all of us. Advertisement Former tabloid journalist Wootton is known for his role in breaking the story of the withdrawal of Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties, and was named showbiz reporter of the year at the British Press Awards on three occasions. He was previously showbiz editor at the News Of The World and appeared on ITVs Lorraine as showbiz correspondent. Wootton announced in January 2021 that he would be leaving his job as executive editor at The Sun, where he previously edited the papers Bizarre column, and subsequently became a regular columnist for the MailOnline. He was suspended from his role as a presenter on GB News after a row over comments made by actor-turned-politician Laurence Fox about a female journalist. Advertisement Wootton also had his contract as a columnist with the Daily Mail terminated at the same time. Elon Musk has backed calls by former UFC champion Conor McGregor to vote no-no in the upcoming referendums on care and the definition of family. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, posted on his social media platform that Conor is right in reference to the Dublin-born fighters position on the votes, due to take place on March 8th. Advertisement On Tuesday, Mr McGregor posted Vote NO/NO! to his 10.4 million followers about the proposed constitutional change on care and the definition of the family. Conor is right https://t.co/PpzhR7SIds Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 21, 2024 Advertisement An upcoming referendum proposes deleting Article 41.2.1 and 41.2.2 of the Constitution, which make reference to a womans role and duties in the home, and replace it with a new article, 42B, that acknowledges family carers. Advertisement The second referendum proposes amending Article 41 of the Constitution to extend the meaning of family beyond one defined by marriage and include those based on durable relationships. Advertisement It comes months after the tech billionaire backed Mr McGregor to run for President of Ireland, after the mixed martial arts fighter said he was considering a career change. On Wednesday, Mr Musk replied that would be epic, to a post calling for Mr McGregor to become the States next president. An independent inquiry into the Omagh bombing will examine alleged security failings that led a High Court judge in the North to conclude the outrage could plausibly have been prevented. The UK government has outlined its terms of reference for the independent probe, which will be chaired by Lord Turnbull. Advertisement The dissident republican bomb exploded in Tyrone town on August 15th, 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. UK Northern Ireland secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the statutory inquiry into the attack last year in response to a court judgment that directed the UK government to establish some form of investigation. Advertisement Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the Belfast High Court judge directing the state to act. Mr Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement on Wednesday. Advertisement In his 2021 judgment, Mr Justice Horner directly recommended that the UK government carry out an investigation into alleged security failings in the lead-up to the atrocity. Advertisement While having no jurisdiction to order the Irish Government to act on the matter, the judge urged authorities there to establish their own probe in light of his findings. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic. Mr Heaton-Harris has also pressed the Irish Government to act. On a visit to Belfast on Wednesday, Tanaiste Micheal Martin, pledged to co-operate with the UK inquiry, but said he did not think it made sense to have two inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the Border. Advertisement Chris Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement. Photo: PA. The inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005 with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath. In his statement, Mr Heaton-Harris said: I want to first again express my deepest sympathy for all of those affected by the Omagh bombing in August 1998. It was a cruel atrocity carried out, not just on the people of Omagh, but on all those in Northern Ireland who supported the peace process. Advertisement Following the announcement of the inquiry in February 2023, and the appointment of Lord Turnbull as chair in June 2023, I have now agreed with Lord Turnbull the terms of reference for the inquiry. These are focused on the four grounds identified by the Northern Ireland High Court as giving rise to plausible arguments that the bombing could have been prevented. Advertisement With the terms of reference now agreed, the inquiry can press ahead with its work to comply with the judgment of the High Court, demonstrating the UK governments ongoing commitment to taking proper action on legacy-related matters. The inquiry chairman will now undertake a setting-up exercise to design the inquiry as he sees fit, and he will announce further detail about the inquiry in due course. The inquiry will examine the adequacy of the measures taken by UK state authorities, including the police, security forces and intelligence and security agencies, to disrupt dissident republicans who had been involved in attacks from December 1997 up to and including the Omagh bombing. It will assess whether that approach changed following the Good Friday Agreement of April 1998. It will also probe alleged intelligence-sharing failures between the UK and Irish authorities in the year-and-a-half leading up to the bombing. Advertisement It will further test an allegation made by former senior police officer Norman Baxter that detectives investigating previous dissident attacks were not given access to full intelligence information on suspects. It will also examine claims around information allegedly passed to the security forces by a state agent known as Kevin Fulton in the months prior to the Omagh attack. The inquiry will also look at intelligence said to have been obtained by the UK governments Communication Headquarters (GCHQ) from alleged vehicle and telephone monitoring of dissident republicans involved in the planning, preparation and conduct of the Omagh bombing and other earlier attacks. The subsequent analysis and handling of the GCHQ intelligence by the state authorities will also be investigated. The inquiry will also examine the extent and adequacy of steps taken by UK authorities to track and analyse the mobile telephone usage by those suspected to be involved in dissident republican terror attacks before the Omagh bombing and whether that data may have aided efforts to disrupt the atrocity in Omagh. Mr Turnbull said he was confident the terms of reference would allow him to conduct a thorough and robust investigation. The first thing to stress is that the inquiry is an entirely independent body, he said. Advertisement I and my team will decide which are the relevant and important issues to explore and which witnesses will be called. We will do so in a manner which is entirely free of influence from the Government, or any of the United Kingdom authorities and agencies. The inquiry is established under the provisions of the Inquiries Act of 2005, which means that I will have the power to require the production of documents and the attendance of witnesses. I shall make use of those powers to any extent necessary. Mr Turnbull said the voice of the victims will be heard. Whilst I have not yet defined the exact procedure the inquiry will follow, it is my intention to invite families and survivors to commemorative hearings in Omagh at some point this year, so I can hear directly from those most affected by the bombing, he said. I recognise that for some, however, revisiting events of the past would be too traumatic and that they may have no wish to return to such a difficult time in their lives and the lives of their own loved ones. I will fully respect that view, and the inquiry will recognise your privacy if this is your wish. Advertisement The first phase of the inquiry will involve gathering information and materials. The second phase will be the evidential hearings and Mr Turnbull said he intended for those to be held in public and broadcast live, unless it was necessary in the public interest for reasons of national security that they are held in private. He acknowledged it could take some time before he was in a position to produce a final report and said he would consider whether to issue an interim report ahead of the inquirys conclusion. Tanaiste Micheal Martin during a visit to Ulster University in Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA. Mr Heaton-Harris reiterated his call for the Irish Government to set up its own inquiry. I urge the Irish Government to now explain what consideration it has given to the setting up of an investigation in Ireland to discharge its obligations under article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, in line with the clear direction of the High Court, he said. However, speaking during his visit to Ulster University in Belfast, Mr Martin questioned the merit of having two separate inquiries. He also denied that the Government haw not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic, he said in clear reference to the UKs contentious legacy laws. The Gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. Stormonts leaders were also asked about the probe on a visit to Limavady on Wednesday morning. First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago, and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. The UK government will publish terms of reference for an independent inquiry into the Omagh bomb atrocity later on Wednesday, a British minister has said. Jonathan Caine, speaking during a visit to a shared education campus in Limavady, said he was very pleased the UK government was able to take the step. Advertisement His remarks came as Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he did not think it made sense to have public inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the border. Northern Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the independent inquiry into the 1998 Omagh bombing last year in response to a court judgment that directed the UK government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the judge directing the state to act. Advertisement Advertisement Lord Caine was speaking during a visit to Limavady. Photo: Jacob King/PA. The dissident republican bomb exploded in the Co Tyrone town on August 15th 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Hundreds more were injured. Mr Caine said: On the Omagh terms of reference, they are being published today. Advertisement I am very pleased we have been able to take this forward as a government and deliver a public inquiry in response to the Gallagher judgment. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic. Mr Caine said: As far as the Irish Government are concerned, I did raise this with them directly at the last meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. Advertisement It is something we will keep raising with them for sure. Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. Advertisement I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish Government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. Advertisement Tanaiste Micheal Martin during a visit to Ulster University in Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA. Speaking during a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin denied that the Government had not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. He said: There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic. The gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of Government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. An 800 million plus funding package from the Irish Government is not intended as a political statement, a Minister has insisted. Minister for Finance Michael McGrath was speaking as he visited Belfast following the major funding announcement by the Government. Advertisement The bulk of the funding is earmarked for the proposed upgrade of the A5 road, while there are also allocations for the rebuilding of Casement Park and for cross-border Narrow Water Bridge. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed the funding (Liam McBurney/PA) DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed the funding from the Irish Government, but stressed it is not the job or the responsibility of the Republics Government to provide financial support for the provision of public services and general Northern Ireland infrastructure. Advertisement Mr McGrath visited Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Tuesday, as well as the City Life Centre on the peace line between the predominantly Catholic/Nationalist Falls Road and predominantly Protestant/Unionist Shankill Road. Advertisement During his visit to Stormont, he had his first meeting with the new Stormont Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald. Speaking to media, Mr McGrath said he was there to demonstrate the commitment of the Irish Government to working in co operation in areas of common interest. There are so many areas where we can co operate and I look forward to developing a working relationship with you, he said. Advertisement Stormont Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald and Minister for Finance Michael McGrath spoke to media in the Great Hall at Parliament Buildings, Stormont (Rebecca Black/PA) I look forward to an early meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council where we can develop areas of co-operation into the future. Mr McGrath added that he hopes everyone in Northern Ireland will welcome this investment by the Irish Government, insisting it is not a political statement. Advertisement My experience as a minister and as a member of parliament in the Republic is people want to see things get done, he said. They want projects to be delivered, and if you take the A5 for example, I dont believe it is in question that the benefits of that project proceeding transcend politics, transcend borders, will result in improved road safety, will save lives and will enhance the development of the economy both north and south. I think it will be welcomed generally and its not intended as any kind of political statement. It is a demonstration of our support and our practical support and our financial support to get projects done that benefit everyone on the island, in particular the people of Northern Ireland. Advertisement Ms Archibald described a great day, adding that as finance minister she will be grabbing on to with both hands the funding from the Irish Government. Advertisement Certainly weve had our issues with the Treasury and the financial package, and thats something that Ill continue to work with them on in terms of achieving further clarity and obviously keen to address the underfunding but for today I am really focused on the funding package that has been announced and that really positive news story that that presents, she said. The Tanaiste has said there is no question that the Russian state killed Alexei Navalny. Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin said that Ireland has a duty to communicate in the strongest possible manner its condemnation of the death of Russias opposition leader. Advertisement The Russian prison service announced that Mr Navalny died during his detention at an Arctic penal colony on Friday. The Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary General met the Russian Ambassador on Tuesday, where Irelands outrage was conveyed to the Russian diplomat. It was relayed to Yury Filatov that the ultimate responsibility for (Navalnys) death rests with Russian leadership. The department also called for a full, independent and transparent investigation into his death. Advertisement .@dfatirl summoned the Russian Ambassador yesterday to express outrage at the death in prison of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, reiterate that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership, & call for a full, independent & transparent investigation. https://t.co/cNKA76JSq5 Advertisement Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) February 21, 2024 Advertisement Mr Martin, who met Mr Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday, said her husbands treatment in detention was chilling and ruthless. Asked if he agreed with her that the Russian state killed Mr Navalny, he said: Theres no question about that. Im not just referring to the actual immediate situation at the weekend but rather the progressive, savage treatment of him in terms of his imprisonment and his movement to the Arctic Circle. Advertisement There are some harrowing accounts of the latter stages of his detention in terms of freezing cold in the cells, the limited exercise. On a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin said the treatment and death of Mr Navalny was reflective of the oppressive regime in Moscow. It reflects a regime that is suppressing freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, opposition, dissent, and we communicated that to him, and also weve communicated to the ambassador repeatedly that Russia should pull back and withdraw out of Ukraine because of the misery that has been inflicted on so many Ukrainians, and the war is quite shocking also, he said. We want good relations with countries, but when the UN charter is so flagrantly violated, we have to communicate in the strongest possible manner our view, and the view of the Irish people, to such acts. Advertisement Advertisement Asked why Dana Erlich, the Israeli ambassador to Ireland, had not been summoned to answer questions over her countrys actions in Gaza, Mr Martin said I have communicated directly to the Israeli government. I met (former) foreign minister (Eli) Cohen, and weve communicated directly from government to government our position in respect of the war on Gaza and the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, and the need for unimpeded access of humanitarian aid and support. We will continue to do that, and we also communicate, and we have communicated, with the Israeli ambassador also. The Department of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Russian ambassador to Ireland to express outrage at the death of key opposition figure Alexei Navalny. The department said it summoned Yury Filatov on Tuesday and reiterated that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership. Advertisement The Russian prison service announced that Mr Navalny, a major opposition leader, died during his detention at an Arctic penal colony on Friday. The department also called for a full, independent and transparent investigation into his death. .@dfatirl summoned the Russian Ambassador yesterday to express outrage at the death in prison of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, reiterate that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership, & call for a full, independent & transparent investigation. https://t.co/cNKA76JSq5 Advertisement Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) February 21, 2024 Earlier this week, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said Mr Navalnys death was a reminder of the repressive and oppressive Russian regime. Advertisement Advertisement He said: President (Vladimir) Putin has ruthlessly put down any opposition and suppressed any dissent, freedom of speech, freedom of the right to gather. He added: Its quite shocking when you stand back and just reflect on the degree to which the fundamental spirit of the human being is being suppressed in Russia. Tributes have been paid to two young men killed and two others who were injured in a road crash in Co Limerick on Tuesday night. The four men, aged in their late teens and early 20s, were students in an agricultural course run jointly by Technical University of the Shannon (TUS) and Salesian Agricultural College in Pallaskenry. Advertisement They had been travelling in a car that struck a wall on the N69 at Ballyengland, near Askeaton, at around 7.25pm on Tuesday night. Two of the men, Darragh Dullea, (20), from Clonakilty, Co Cork, and Cillian Kirwan, (19), from Piltown, Co Kilkenny, who were passengers in the car, were killed in the incident. The two other men, including the driver, from Charleville, Co Cork, and Birr, Co Offaly, were taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick, where they were treated for non-life threatening injuries. Advertisement The four young men had been in their final year of their two-year course in agricultural mechanisation, gaining qualifications for working with farm machinery. Advertisement I would like to send my condolences to the families of the two students that have tragically lost their lives, and our thoughts and prayers are with their families and their friends and classmates, and I also wish the two students who are in hospital a speedy recovery, Salesians College principal Derek ODonoghue said. Mr ODonoghue added the four men returned to Pallaskenry in January after eight months' placement, so they are really just five weeks back here in college. Its very unfortunate, he said. Exemplary students Paying tribute, Mr ODonoghue described the four men as exemplary students, hardworking [and] diligent. Advertisement Mr ODonoghue said staff from TUS were providing counselling and other psychological supports to students. The four occupants of the car were all on the same course together, and they were all residential students here in Pallaskenry, he explained. Adam Teskey a local Fine Gael councillor, offered his sympathies to the four mens families and said the local community was left absolutely stunned and in a total state of shock after this immense tragedy. Two families have suffered the ultimate loss of life and for that I want to express my sincere sympathies to them. Cllr Teskey described the N69 as a dangerous road that is no stranger to fatal road collisions. The road was closed throughout Tuesday night and into Wednesday while a forensic examination of the scene was carried out. Gardai have appealed for witnesses of the crash to contact Askeaton Garda station 061-601 630 or any Garda station. Two lead challenges to the Minister for Justices designation of the UK as a safe third country have failed to specify the point at which they say the designation should have been revoked, counsel for the State have told the High Court. The designation, made by Helen McEntee in December 2020 in response to Brexit, enables a finding that an international protection application is inadmissible if the applicant has arrived from the UK and certain criteria are met. Advertisement The person can be returned to the UK, as a safe non-EU country, for their asylum application or situation to be determined there. A relatively similar process exists among EU member states under the Dublin III Regulation. The court heard these two cases, brought by international protection applicants who travelled to Ireland from the UK, have been selected from a large group of judicial review actions alleging the designation of the UK as a safe third country is unlawful due to the risks arising from potential onward transfer to Rwanda. Rwanda plan Advertisement David Conlan Smyth SC, for the State, submitted on Tuesday that the UKs proposal to fly certain asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing is in a constant state of flux. Advertisement The High Court is being asked to condemn the Minister for Justice for the difficulties in reacting to a constantly evolving situation, he said. As a matter of law, he said, there is currently no Rwanda policy, as the UK's Supreme Court found last November it was unlawful due to leaving deportees open to human rights breaches. He noted the UK parliament is currently considering the Safety of Rwanda Bill, which seeks to overcome legal obstacles. However, he said, this has not been enacted, and it cannot be said that it applies to the two applicants in these cases. One of the men, who was refused asylum status in the UK, seeks to quash the Ministers decision to return him after she found he would not be subjected to refoulement in the UK. Advertisement Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan said she will decide later on the States application seeking to add to its defence that he is not entitled to reliefs sought because he did not disclose that he was convicted of a sexual offence in England. Advertisement Mr Conlan Smyth said applicants have a is a duty of candour, yet he did not mention his 2018 conviction as part of his case or report it to the Garda protection services, as he is required to do. Failure to report this to gardai is an arrestable offence, counsel added. Lawyers for the man said they need to take instructions, but submitted the conviction is not relevant to the legal issues in the case. The court heard the second challenger spent some months in the UK on a student visa before travelling to the Republic of Ireland. Advertisement He wants to overturn the International Protection Appeals Tribunals finding that his application for protection here was inadmissible due to the designation of the UK as a safe third country. 'Constitutional difficulties' Mr Conlan Smyth said there are constitutional difficulties with the two cases, which effectively ask the court to step into the shoes of the executive. He further submitted that the applicants lack the standing to bring their challenges, as they are simply not governed by the policy that is, anyway, no longer in force, given the British Supreme Court's decision. He pointed to a UK Home Office document which said the Rwanda proposal would apply to asylum seekers who arrived in the UK after a particular date, and whose journey could be considered dangerous, such as arriving on a small boat or clandestinely in a lorry. Advertisement It appears the applicants here do not meet that criteria, and they cannot ask the court to condemn the safe third country designation based on what might happen to other applicants, he said. Previously, Hugh Southey KC, with Eamonn Dornan BL, submitted on behalf of the applicants that Ireland must consider the ultimate destination of asylum seekers which are returned to the UK. There is a real risk the UK will soon have a provision that permits the removal of asylum seekers to Rwanda, he submitted. The Minister for Justice has not formally reviewed her designation decision since the end of 2020, yet clearly the asylum system there is very significantly different now, he said. The case continues on Thursday. Mexico's Sinaloa drugs cartel creating an Irish network, a shortage of gardai tackling drugs, and a hike in broadband prices are among the stories that feature on Wednesday's front pages. Gardai believe Mexicos notorious Sinaloa drugs cartel have quietly established a network of agents and enablers in the Republic, according to The Irish Times. Advertisement There is a shortage of gardai targeting drug dealers in Cork, the Irish Examiner reports. The Irish Independent's lead story looks at potential broadband price hikes. Advertisement A public ownership motion for the Cork Event Centre has been defeated, The Echo reports. An All-Ireland winner has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a 12-year-old boy, the Irish Daily Mail reports. Advertisement Don't miss all the country's best news, features and sport in Wednesday's Irish Daily Mail. pic.twitter.com/6AyBFXRcv0 Advertisement The Irish Daily Mail (@irishdailymail) February 21, 2024 The Herald and Irish Daily Star lead with stories on a murder in the Hutch-Kinahan feud. Advertisement Wednesday's front page pic.twitter.com/YwZESKYeFi Irish Daily Star (@isfearranstar) February 21, 2024 Advertisement In the North, the Belfast Telegraph and The Irish News lead with stories on funding for the redevelopment of Casement Park. Good Morning. Today's front page As Irish government is leading the way UK to follow on Casement? Woman killed in crash was 6 months pregnant pic.twitter.com/lJSNb2QULd The Irish News (@irish_news) February 21, 2024 The continued attack on Gaza leads Wednesdays UK papers, with the Prince of Wales leading calls to end the war. William issued a public call to end to the fighting as soon as possible, with the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mail, the Independent and The Times leading with his strongly-worded comments on the Israel-Gaza conflict. The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph: 'William: Fighting in Gaza must be brought to an end'#TomorrowsPapersToday Sign up for the Front Page newsletterhttps://t.co/x8AV4OoUh6 pic.twitter.com/uQgDM96TAj The Telegraph (@Telegraph) February 20, 2024 Introducing #TomorrowsPapersToday from:#DailyMail Jewish couple receive birth certificate with the word Israel scrubbed out For a comprehensive collection of newspapers, explore: https://t.co/NNc1XQqHEw Don't forget to support journalism #buyanewspaper or #buyapaper pic.twitter.com/95kZ3t99Vg Advertisement #TomorrowsPapersToday - The Press Room (@channel_tsc) February 20, 2024 Here is tomorrow's (21/2/24) front-page from The Independent: pic.twitter.com/NHrUFIHmW3 The Independent (@Independent) February 20, 2024 Introducing #TomorrowsPapersToday from:#TheTimes Prince issues Gaza plea for permanent peace For a comprehensive collection of newspapers, explore: https://t.co/NNc1XQqHEw Don't forget to support journalism #buyanewspaper or #buyapaper for the latest updates! pic.twitter.com/KCXxqg5iZS #TomorrowsPapersToday - The Press Room (@channel_tsc) February 20, 2024 The Guardian also splashes with Gaza, opting to run with Sir Keir Starmers attempt to head off a party rebellion on the issue despite finally calling for an immediate ceasefire in the region. Introducing #TomorrowsPapersToday from:#TheGuardian NHS adopts Marthas rule in 100 hospitals For a comprehensive collection of newspapers, explore: https://t.co/NNc1XQqHEw Don't forget to support journalism #buyanewspaper or #buyapaper for the latest updates! pic.twitter.com/pwYZ95ixYc #TomorrowsPapersToday - The Press Room (@channel_tsc) February 20, 2024 The Daily Express runs with a piece on the UK prime ministers Rwanda plan, with Rishi Sunak saying: If you come here illegally, you just cant stay. Front Page - PM: Completely ridiculous for illegal migrants to jump the queue#TomorrowsPapersTodayhttps://t.co/OqbTMaIAjN pic.twitter.com/TzJFQvh0xT Advertisement Daily Express (@Daily_Express) February 20, 2024 The Sun runs with a story on the nuclear missile misfire by a Trident submarine with the UK defence secretary on board. On tomorrow's front page: British nuclear sub missile launch FAILS as Trident misfires and plops into sea just yards away with Shapps on boardhttps://t.co/njWlKgUScs pic.twitter.com/872rduGZp1 The Sun (@TheSun) February 20, 2024 The Daily Mirror leads with Russian president Vladimir Putins British hit list. Financial Times reports on Barclays and its plans to go on a major cost-cutting drive. Just published: front page of the Financial Times, UK edition, Wednesday 21 February https://t.co/9upcMHOL5q pic.twitter.com/ScNspq3KHl Financial Times (@FT) February 20, 2024 The Metro reports on the Post Office scandal, with a piece that alleges David Camerons government was aware of measures that may have helped the falsely accused back in 2016. Tomorrow's Paper Today 'Cam's Govt knew' Ministers 'told in 2016 how investigation that could have helped thousands was ditched' #tomorrowspapertoday pic.twitter.com/y5auvYZOiS Metro (@MetroUK) February 20, 2024 And lastly, the Daily Star splashes with a piece on a rather hungry black hole that is busy out there gobbling up things in space. Advertisement The New York Times leads with a story on a school in Virginia being allowed to keep a diversity policy in place following a court case. A story on the United States' failure to call for a Gaza truce also makes the front page. A claim from Israels ambassador to Ireland that Irish people have a one-sided view of the Middle East conflict has been dismissed as unfair by Tanaiste Micheal Martin. The Minister for Foreign Affairs said Irish people were motivated by their shock at the catastrophic number of deaths and destruction in the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Ambassador Dana Erlich said on Wednesday that Israel is portrayed as the only villain in Ireland, and that the actions of Hamas militants should be condemned more often. Advertisement I ask the Irish people listening right now: When you criticise Israel, just raise more questions about the actions of Hamas, and think what can be done inside Gaza by the UN agencies in order to actually help the Palestinian people, Ms Erlich told Newstalk on Wednesday. Advertisement When you call out in the streets of Dublin, why are you not calling out for the release of the Israeli kidnapped civilians? Asked about the comments during a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin said Irish people were on the side of humanity and were motivated by the horrific humanitarian situation in the enclave. We have been very clear in terms of our condemnation of the Hamas attack of October 7th, and indeed of Hamas itself as an organisation, and weve called on Hamas to lay down its arms, and the vast majority of the Irish people support that position, the foreign affairs minister said. Advertisement Its not fair to say there is a one-sided position. I think the Irish people are on the side of humanity and the Irish people are shocked at the level of death and civilian causalities within Gaza. One hundred thousand people are either dead, injured or maimed and that is shocking; 17,000 children unaccompanied in Gaza now and that is horrific. Micheal Martin said Irish people were on the side of humanity. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Advertisement That is what motivates the Irish people. We want an immediate humanitarian ceasefire on that basis. Gaza has been levelled. The humanitarian situation is catastrophic. Israels air and ground offensive, launched in response to the October 7th attack, is reported to have killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, obliterated entire neighbourhoods and displaced more than 80 per cent of the population of 2.3 million. Advertisement More than 69,000 Palestinians have been wounded, according to the regions authorities. The Israeli operation was launched after Hamas-led militants rampaged across communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 hostage. Advertisement The militants still hold some 130 captives, around a fourth of whom are believed to be dead. Mr Martin said the Government had received a UN briefing on the dire situation within Gaza, adding: That is what motivates the Irish people and Irish Government. Labour MP Chris Bryant has written a powerful historical account about homosexuality in the time of Charles Dickens Fiction 1. The List Of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey is published in hardback by Hutchinson Heinemann. Available now Advertisement I SAW MY BOOK IN THE BOOKSHOP I WORK IN IRL! (This deserves shouty caps!) @waterstonestaun #TheListofSuspiciousThings #booktwitter pic.twitter.com/EnVcr44kzl Jennie Godfrey (@jennieg_author) February 12, 2024 Advertisement The List Of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey is her debut novel and is based on her childhood in West Yorkshire in the 1970s. Its a beautifully written story about friendship, family and the untold secrets hidden beneath the surface. Miv has her own family issues her mother has stopped speaking, her Aunty Jean has moved in and her dad is clearly stressed. Not to mention the Yorkshire Ripper murders. A move down South is discussed and this fires Mivs drive to solve the case of the disappearing women stopping the need to move. Miv and her friend Sharon decide to make a list of all the suspicious people within their community and their search for the truth reveals more secrets than they thought possible. This coming-of-age novel touches on a number of themes; family, friendship, love, suicide, mental health, betrayal, heartbreak, loss and murder. This is a touching novel that will have you in tears, shock, laughter and horror allowing you to connect to your childhood and coming-of-age in a way that will bring back lots of memories. 9/10 (Review by Amanda De-Beer) Advertisement 2. Every Smile You Fake by Dorothy Koomson is published in hardback by Headline Review. Available now Advertisement Can we ever trust what we see online? Venturing into the increasingly murky world of deep fakes and the dangers of social media, #EverySmileYouFake is Dorothy's most topical #thriller to date Happy publication day @DorothyKoomson!https://t.co/0yjnd9Y0P3 pic.twitter.com/LHgemZHuhK ed public relations (@ed_pr) February 15, 2024 Advertisement At the centre of Every Smile You Fake is profiler and therapist Kez Lanyon and its clear theres a whole other layer to her as the book goes on. She finds a baby in her car and she suspects the mother is Brandee, a social media star who has gone into hiding, removing herself from the online world. Kez begins her search for Brandee and gets pulled back into a world she hoped she had left forever. Dorothy Koomson has written a twisty tale that taps into child exploitation, the church of online influencers, pseudo psychology and radicalisation and it doesnt seem too far-fetched, as in the last year, similar stories have been in the news. Each chapter is more addictive than the last, as the backgrounds of the characters are unpicked as their lives unravel, with Koomson shining a light on the darker side of living life online. 9/10 (Review by Rachel Howdle) Advertisement 3. The Trials Of Lila Dalton by L. J. Shepherd is published in hardback by Pushkin Vertigo. Available now A very good friend of mine has written a novel! Published by @PushkinPress, it's a courtroom thriller called The Trials of Lila Dalton and is a Sunday Times pick of the month. Follow @LJShepherdwords for more info and updates. pic.twitter.com/2wnIPR2vgS Advertisement Sophie Maddison (@sophiejmaddison) February 13, 2024 The Trials Of Lila Dalton is an incredibly inventive debut from barrister L.J. Shepherd. She draws upon her day job to write a new type of courtroom drama, one with a dystopian slant. Lila Dalton suddenly wakes up and finds shes leading the defence of a man accused of something horrific but she doesnt know how she got there and cant remember anything from two seconds earlier. Luckily, her brain seems to have retained information of how to actually be a lawyer but then the real mystery begins, as she tries to find out who she is and why shes in this courthouse on a strange island, with her phone tapped and death threats slid under her door. Its a gripping read thats incredibly well paced youll race through the chapters, desperate to find out the truth. While the ending perhaps tries too many things and gets a bit overcomplicated, its still a brilliant read and a satisfying finale. 8/10 (Review by Prudence Wade) Non-fiction Advertisement 4. James And John: A True Story Of Prejudice And Murder by Chris Bryant is published in hardback by Bloomsbury Publishing. Available now Happy Publication Day to the following : James & John by Chris Bryant @RhonddaBryant is published by @bloomsburybooks "A BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week" Links to preorder:https://t.co/LXOmrOYrtghttps://t.co/vxUKaQhRv9https://t.co/8r4mcB5EQZ pic.twitter.com/aU3HI7E6F8 United Agents Books (@UA_Books) February 15, 2024 James Pratt and John Smith were sent to the gallows in the 1830s for engaging in an offence deemed so unnatural that it could not even be mentioned. Historian, author and MP Chris Bryant examines why, unlike other countries at the time, Britain was so vehemently against gay sex that it was a capital offence. His forensic post-mortem of the James and John case strips this great reforming era back to reveal underlying hypocrisy, social injustice and deep-seated homophobic prejudice. The fleshy visceral heart of Bryants social history set in the teeming streets of Charles Dickens London has been brilliantly stitched together from archives, records and correspondence. There are many intriguing and amusing nuggets to be found in this rich patchwork of a story, putting into ever more painfully sharp relief the horror of what happened to these two men. This is an astonishing piece of work. 8/10 (Review by Emily Pennink) Childrens book of the week Advertisement 5. Dim Sum Palace by X. Fang is published in hardback by Pushkin Childrens Books. Available now For bedtime books & tea we read DIM SUM PALACE by X. Fang. A deliciously fun read!#amreading #kidlit #BookRecommendation pic.twitter.com/AcITxUdCts Laura Smetana (@SmetanaLaura) January 19, 2024 Sometimes childrens books dont need to have a teachable lesson behind it all sometimes they can just be joyfully silly, as is the case with Dim Sum Palace. Visual artist X. Fang has dreamed up a captivating debut picture book, telling the story of Liddy whos so excited to eat at the Dim Sum Palace tomorrow that she cant sleep. So when a delicious smell travels into her room, Liddy obviously follows it straight into a kitchen, where she somehow finds herself folded into a dumpling. Its surreal in an incredibly fun way and this, coupled with the sensory overload of the food, is reminiscent of the iconic food scene in Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away. The illustrations are unlike most of the other childrens books out there, making for a unique read that will go down a storm at bedtime. 8/10 (Review by Prudence Wade) BOOK CHARTS FOR THE WEEK ENDING FEBRUARY 17th Advertisement HARDBACK (FICTION) 1. Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner 2. The Fury by Alex Michaelides 3. House Of Flame And Shadow by Sarah J. Maas 4. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros 5. The Island Swimmer by Lorraine Kelly 6. Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde 7. Faebound by Saara El-Arifi 8. The List Of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey 9. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 10. Fourteen Days by Margaret Atwood et al (Compiled by Waterstones) HARDBACK (NON-FICTION) 1. Bored Of Lunch Healthy Slow Cooker: Even Easier by Nathan Anthony 2. How AI Thinks by Nigel Toon 3. Politics On The Edge by Rory Stewart 4. Empireworld by Sathnam Sanghera 5. Charles III by Robert Hardman 6. How They Broke Britain by James OBrien 7. Pinch Of Nom Express: Fast, Delicious Food by Kay Allinson & Kate Allinson 8. My Mother And I by Ingrid Seward 9. The Diary Of A CEO by Steven Bartlett 10. The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World by Bettany Hughes (Compiled by Waterstones) AUDIOBOOKS (FICTION AND NON-FICTION) 1. Atomic Habits by James Clear 2. Unruly by David Mitchell 3. The Island Swimmer by Lorraine Kelly 4. None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell 5. A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes 6. The Diary Of A CEO by Steven Bartlett 7. The Fellowship Of The Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien 8. Ultra-Processed People by Chris van Tulleken 9. How They Broke Britain by James OBrien 10. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman (Compiled by Audible) US president Joe Biden on Tuesday thrashed Republican rival Donald Trump's response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, asking: "Why does Trump always blame America?" After Mr Navalny's death was reported on Friday, Mr Biden directly blamed Russian leader Vladimir Putin, as did Mr Trump's main rival for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Nikki Haley. Advertisement Mr Trump did not mention Mr Navalny until a Monday post on his Truth Social platform that did not cast blame or express remorse, but alluded to his own legal problems as persecution and called the United States a nation in decline. "The former president, Trump, and other Republicans, refuse to hold Putin accountable for his death," Mr Biden said. "Instead, Trump said Navalny's death made him realize how bad America was. "He said and I quote, 'We are a nation in decline, a failing nation.' Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" Advertisement Mr Trump, the Republican frontrunner, is likely to face Democrat Biden in a rematch in November's presidential election. Advertisement During his 2017-2021 tenure in the White House, Mr Trump drew criticism for his praise of Putin. Last week, he suggested the United States might not protect Nato allies who do not spend enough on defence from a potential Russian invasion. Mr Biden on Tuesday called the Nato comments dangerous. "It does nothing but encourage bad behaviour," Mr Biden said. Mr Biden folded the criticism into a video posted in Twitter in which he urged Republicans who control the US House of Representatives to pass emergency security assistance for Ukraine in its war against Russia. "We have to stand up to Putin," Mr Biden said. US president Joe Biden has announced he is cancelling federal student loans for nearly 153,000 borrowers. Mr Biden, who is in the midst of a three-day campaign swing through California, made the announcement as part of a new repayment plan that offers a faster path to forgiveness, putting the spotlight on his debt cancellation efforts in his re-election campaign. Advertisement Too many Americans are still saddled with unsustainable debt in exchange for a college degree, he said from a local library, before he went on to campaign-related events. Loan relief helps the greater economy, he reasoned, because when people have a student debt relief, they buy homes. They start businesses, they contribute. They engage. Starting today, the first round of folks who are enrolled in our SAVE student loan repayment plan who have paid their loans for 10 years and borrowed $12,000 or less will have their debt cancelled. Thats 150,000 Americans and counting. And were pushing to relieve more. Advertisement Advertisement President Biden (@POTUS) February 21, 2024 The administration began sending email notifications on Wednesday to some of the borrowers who will benefit from what the White House has called the Save programme. Advertisement The cancellations were originally scheduled to start in July, but last month the administration said it would be ready almost six months ahead of schedule, in February. Starting today, the first round of folks who are enrolled in our Save student loan repayment plan who have paid their loans for 10 years and borrowed $12,000 or less will have their debt cancelled, Mr Biden posted on social media on Wednesday. Thats 150,000 Americans and counting. And were pushing to relieve more. The first round of forgiveness from the Save plan will clear $1.2 billion in loans. The borrowers will get emails with a message from Mr Biden notifying them that all or a portion of your federal student loans will be forgiven because you qualify for early loan forgiveness under my Administrations Save Plan. Advertisement In his email to borrowers, Mr Biden wrote he heard from countless people who have told me that relieving the burden of their student loan debt will allow them to support themselves and their families, buy their first home, start a small business, and move forward with life plans theyve put on hold. Advertisement President Joe Biden speaks at Culver City Julian Dixon Library in California (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) More than 7.5 million people have enrolled in the new repayment plan. Advertisement He said on Wednesday it was the kind of relief that can be life-changing for individuals and their families. Im proud to have been able to give borrowers like so many of you the relief you earned, he said, asking the crowd gathered for his speech how many had debt forgiven. Many raised their hands. The president, during a campaign fundraiser in Beverly Hills on Tuesday night, highlighted his efforts to help middle-class Americans and warned that a win in November by former US president Donald Trump, the Republican presidential front-runner, could lead to a nationwide abortion ban, more Republican efforts to undo the health insurance programme started in the Biden administration and policies that would disproportionately help the wealthy. He asked his supporters to help win a second term so that he could finish the job in enacting an agenda that benefits American workers. After his speech, Mr Biden was heading to another fundraiser and campaign event. During a quick stop at a local restaurant, CJs Cafe, before his library talk, Mr Biden greeted customers, offering handshakes and hugs and posing for selfies. US president Joe Biden takes a photo as he visits CJs Cafe in Los Angeles (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) Borrowers are eligible for cancellation if they are enrolled in the Save plan, originally borrowed $12,000 or less to attend college and have made at least 10 years of payments. Advertisement Those who took out more than $12,000 will be eligible for cancellation but on a longer timeline. For each $1,000 borrowed beyond 12,000, it adds an additional year of payments on top of 10 years. The maximum repayment period is capped at 20 years for those with only undergraduate loans and 25 years for those with any graduate school loans. Mr Biden announced the new repayment plan last year alongside a separate plan to cancel up to $20,000 in loans for millions of Americans. The Supreme Court struck down his plan for widespread forgiveness, but the repayment plan has so far escaped that level of legal scrutiny. Unlike his proposal for mass cancellation which had never been done before the repayment plan is a twist on existing income-based plans created by Congress more than a decade ago. Mr Biden said he remained steadfast in his commitment to fix our broken student loan system, working around the courts ruling to find other ways to get it done. Boris Johnson has disputed Tucker Carlsons claim that he demanded $1 million (925,000) for agreeing to an interview with the former Fox News host. A spokesperson for the former UK prime minister dismissed as untrue accusations levelled at him by Mr Carlson in an extended attack during an appearance on right-wing news channel Blaze TV. Advertisement The US presenter said he had been annoyed after Mr Johnson denounced him as a Kremlin stooge following his interview with Russian president Vladimir Putin. He claimed he asked the former Tory MP for a talk and a member of Mr Johnsons team said its going to cost you $1 million and then he will explain his position on Ukraine. Mr Carlson denied supporting Mr Putins regime, but added: Im not defending Putin, but Putin didnt ask for $1 million This whole thing is a freaking shakedown. Advertisement He said: If youre making money, money off a war, you know, you can deal with God on that, because thats really immoral. Advertisement Mr Carlson interviewed the Russian president in Moscow (Sputnik, Kremlin, pool via AP) A spokesperson for Mr Johnson said: This account is untrue. The former UK prime ministers team said Mr Carlson, an influential voice in right-wing US media known for having launched scathing attacks against Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy, had offered $1 million for an interview on his channel. Advertisement Mr Johnson initially accepted, provided the money went solely to Ukrainian veteran charities, but decided not to go ahead with it after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, which has been widely blamed on the Kremlin, they said. It is the latest flare-up in a row between the pair after Mr Johnson used his Daily Mail column to brand Mr Carlson a traitor to journalism for his interview with the Russian president. Mr Johnson said the presenter had betrayed viewers and listeners around the world for not taking Mr Putin to task for the torture, the rapes, the blowing up of kindergartens in Ukraine. The interview had seen the Moscow leader insist Mr Johnson helped scupper a deal aimed at ending the war a claim that has been denied by the former MP and rubbished by senior Ukrainian figures. A protester has died as thousands of Indian farmers resumed their march to New Delhi after talks with the government failed to end an impasse over their demands for guaranteed crop prices. The farmers began their protest march last week but were stopped some 200 kilometres (125 miles) from the capital as police fired rounds of teargas. Advertisement The 21-year-old farmer, identified as Subhkaran Singh, died from a head injury, medical superintendent HS Rekhi told the Press Trust of India (PTI). Advertisement He said two other people had been injured and were in stable condition. Mr Singh died after clashes between security forces and farmers erupted in Khanauri, a town in the state of Punjab, reported PTI. Haryana police in a post on X, formerly Twitter, said 12 officers were injured after protesters attacked them with sticks and pelted them with stones. Advertisement The post added that protesters used chili powder to set stubble on fire, making it difficult for officers to breathe. Advertisement The farmers are demanding legislation guaranteeing minimum prices for 23 crops, loan wavers and the doubling of the money they can make. The protests come at a crucial time for India, where national elections are due in the coming months and Prime Minister Narendra Modis party is widely expected to secure a third successive term in office. The protesting farmers began their march last week, but their efforts to reach New Delhi were blocked by authorities (Altaf Qadri/AP) Advertisement Authorities are set on containing the protest, which has renewed the movement from over two years ago when tens of thousands of farmers camped out on the outskirts of the city for over a year. At the time, the farmers pitched tents, bought food supplies and held out in the sit-in until they forced Mr Modi to repeal new agriculture laws in a major reversal for his government. On Wednesday, authorities barricaded the highways into New Delhi with cement blocks, metal containers, barbed wire and iron spikes to prevent the farmers from entering. The farmers arrived at the barricades with bulldozers and excavators to try and push through. Advertisement Advertisement Jagjit Singh Dallewal, one of the farmers leading the march, said they did not want any violence, but condemned the government over massive security measures. It is our request that we want to go to Delhi in a peaceful manner. The government should remove the barricades, he said. Protesting farmers run away from tear gas shells used by the police near Shambhu border, India (Altaf Qadri/AP) Last week, the farmers had paused their protest and hunkered down near the town of Shambhu, close to the border between Punjab and Haryana states, as farmers unions engaged in discussions with government ministers. They rejected a proposal from the government that offered them five-year contracts of guaranteed prices on a set of certain crops, including maize, grain legumes and cotton, before the farmers resumed their march on Wednesday. The protest organisers say the farmers are seeking a new legislation that would guarantee minimum prices for 23 crops. The government protects agricultural producers against sharp falls in farm prices by setting a minimum purchase price for certain essential crops, a system that was introduced in the 1960s to help shore up food reserves and prevent shortages. The system can apply up to 23 crops, but the government usually offers the minimum price only for rice and wheat. Advertisement The farmers say guaranteed minimum support price for all 23 crops would stabilise their income. They are also pressing the government to follow through on promises to waive loans and withdraw legal cases brought against them during the earlier 2021 protests. Several talks so far have failed to break the deadlock. Armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed is set to go on trial for the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021. Prosecutors are pursuing accountability for the death of Ms Hutchins who was shot by actor Alec Baldwin during a rehearsal for the Western movie Rust. Advertisement Jury selection begins on Wednesday in Gutierrez-Reeds trial, which will take place in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The weapons supervisors lawyers argue she is not too blame for the death of Ms Hutchins. Prosecutors, however, say Gutierrez-Reed unwittingly introduced live ammunition to the set in a series of negligent actions. The evidence has implications for Baldwin, who is charged in a separate case with involuntary manslaughter. Advertisement No trial date has been set for Baldwin yet. Donald Trump fell further behind US president Joe Biden last month in fundraising ahead of the November presidential election after spending more money on ads and expenses than it received from donors, according to financial disclosures filed on Tuesday. Mr Trump's cash holdings fell to just over $30 million (27 million) at the close of last month as he waged successful campaigns for Republican primary contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, down from around $33 million (30 million) a month earlier, his campaign said in a report to the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Advertisement Mr Biden, who is facing a less competitive process for his Democratic Party's nomination, said in a separate disclosure to the FEC that his campaign ended January with about $56 million (51 million) in cash, up from $46 million (42 million) in December. Mr Trump is closing in on the Republican nomination to face Mr Biden, but he has trailed the incumbent in fundraising while also spending aggressively on primary contests. Advertisement Mr Trump's campaign said it raised $8.8 million in January and spent more than $11 million, with outlays including more than $5 million on ads and mailings as he easily won his party's first presidential nomination contests. Mr Biden's campaign reported raising more than $15 million last month while spending under $6 million. When adding together his campaign accounts with those of his Democratic Party allies, Mr Biden's re-election effort had $130 million in cash, his campaign said earlier on Tuesday. Advertisement Close polls To be sure, Mr Trump has shown he can win elections when rivals have outspent him, as he defeated Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016. Mr Trump and Mr Biden are neck-and-neck in many national public opinion polls and a close race in November is expected. Mr Trump's remaining rival for the Republican nomination, former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, outraised him last month by taking in more than $11 million, according to a separate disclosure from her campaign. Still, Mr Trump is expected to best her in her home state's Republican primary on Saturday. Advertisement Legal expenses Separately, the biggest super PAC supporting Mr Trump, known as MAGA Inc, reported raising $7 million last month, enough to offset the $5 million refund it issued to a separate Trump political action committee (PAC) that is paying the candidate's legal expenses as he battles dozens of criminal charges. The Trump group that received the money, Save America, reported spending close to $3 million on legal expenses during the month, adding to the more than $47 million it spent last year on legal expenses. Most of MAGA Inc's fundraising in January came from a $5 million contribution from Timothy Mellon, heir to the Mellon banking fortune, who is also funding a super PAC backing independent presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr. By comparison, the SFA Fund, a super PAC supporting Ms Haley's campaign, reported taking in $12 million, including contributions of more than $2 million following her loss to Mr Trump in the January 24th New Hampshire primary. Ukraines president has invited Polish leaders to meet him at their shared border to resolve a blockade by Polish farmers protesting against Ukrainian food imports. Volodymyr Zelenskiy says the blockade is hampering the shipment of weapons to Ukrainian soldiers. Advertisement Meanwhile, Polish authorities voiced concern after slogans appeared at the protests praising Russian president Vladimir Putin and his war against Ukraine. Polish farmers drive tractors in a convoy during a protest in Minsk Mazowiecki, Poland (Czarek Sokolowski/AP) Mr Zelenskiy said on social media he hoped the proposed border meeting for him, Polish prime minister Donald Tusk and a European Union representative could happen before the two-year anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine on Saturday. Advertisement This is national security, Mr Zelenskiy said. I am ready to be at the border with our government. There was no immediate reaction from the Polish government. Poland, a member of Nato and the European Union, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion on February 24th, 2022, accepting unlimited numbers of refugees and providing Ukraine with weaponary. Advertisement Poles, with past oppression by Moscow rooted deeply in generational memory, are largely supportive of Ukraine. But tensions have been growing as Polish farmers blame imports of Ukrainian grain and other food for pushing down prices and harming their livelihoods. Advertisement Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who are protesting against competition from Ukraine as well as EU environmental policies, which they say will increase their production costs. Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who are protesting EU environmental policies along with competition from Ukraine (Czarek Sokolowski/AP) Earlier on Wednesday, Polands Foreign Ministry said it believed that extreme groups were trying to take over the protest movement perhaps under the influence of Russian agents. It noted with the greatest concern the appearance of anti-Ukrainian slogans and slogans praising Vladimir Putin and the war he is waging. Advertisement On Tuesday, a tractor at a protest in the southern Polish region of Silesia carried a Soviet flag and a banner that said: Putin, put things in order with Ukraine, Brussels, and our rulers. A photograph was published by the Gazeta Wyborcza daily. Interior minister Marcin Kierwinski called the banner scandalous and said it was immediately secured by police, and prosecutors were investigating. There will be no consent to such criminal activities, he said. The public promotion of a totalitarian system can be punished with up to three years in prison under Polish law. Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Ministry called on protest organisers to identify and eliminate from their movement the initiators, arguing it was necessary for Polands interest. The current situation of Polish farmers is the result of Vladimir Putins aggression against Ukraine and the disruption of the global economy, not because Ukrainians are defending themselves against the aggression, the ministry said. On Tuesday, some protesting farmers at the border spilt Ukrainian grain. Mr Zelenskiy called it grain that our farmers grow with great difficulty despite all the difficulties associated with ruthless Russian aggression. John Witfield at Aeon Magazine: It is a familiar story: a small group of animals living in a wooded grassland begin, against all odds, to populate Earth. At first, they occupy a specific ecological place in the landscape, kept in check by other species. Then something changes. The animals find a way to travel to new places. They learn to cope with unpredictability. They adapt to new kinds of food and shelter. They are clever. And they are aggressive. In the new places, the old limits are missing. As their population grows and their reach expands, the animals lay claim to more territories, reshaping the relationships in each new landscape by eliminating some species and nurturing others. Over time, they create the largest animal societies, in terms of numbers of individuals, that the planet has ever known. And at the borders of those societies, they fight the most destructive within-species conflicts, in terms of individual fatalities, that the planet has ever known. This might sound like our story: the story of a hominin species, living in tropical Africa a few million years ago, becoming global. Instead, it is the story of a group of ant species, living in Central and South America a few hundred years ago, who spread across the planet by weaving themselves into European networks of exploration, trade, colonisation and war some even stowed away on the 16th-century Spanish galleons that carried silver across the Pacific from Acapulco to Manila. more here. 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 People drawn into the charismatic orbit of Ballarat-born artist Josh Muir were delighted by his bright, bold works and the stories behind them. His ability to see positivity during dark times was well-known and when he showed his art works urban and contemporary, with a rich layering of Indigenous design viewers were intrigued. Muir was 30 and working on a new exhibition when he died unexpectedly in February 2022. His loss was felt deeply and extensively: he had a young family, was hitting his stride in the visual arts, and was much admired for his artworks, warmth, humour and commitment to mentoring others. A Yorta Yorta, Gunditjmara and Barkindji man, Muir would undoubtedly have been thrilled by the upcoming retrospective of his work, JXSH MVIR: Forever I Live, at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Federation Square. Taking in the dozen years during which he made an extraordinary number of artworks, it is both a survey and a tribute to a man who was greatly loved and candid about his own vulnerabilities. Josh Muir in 2016. We are still here and growing stronger with each generation, he once said. Credit: James Henry It was at the trust, in 2013, that Muir had one of his early successes as part of The Ballarat Four exhibition. CEO Tom Mosby was told about this young kid from Ballarat working in an urban street style. He was still, at that stage, exploring his style, Mosby recalls. It was a very different style from what he eventually became known for, but you can see where he would head. Josh Muirs Still Here projected onto the NGV for White Night 2016. Credit: Courtesy of the NGV Muir entered several of the trusts Koorie Art Show exhibitions over subsequent years and he and Mosby became friends. Muir went on to great success; his animated work Still Here was a popular projection on the facade of the National Gallery of Victoria during 2016s White Night; a solo show, Josh X Muir, followed at the trust in 2018. Advertisement His work dealt with themes related to Country, culture, identity, colonisation, mental health, generational trauma, addiction, loss and grief. He wanted his work and life as an artist to act as a sort of therapeutic measure for issues around mental health and grief. Over the years, he mentored many young people on the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression. Muirs partner, Shanaya Sheridan, says the artists mental health significantly declined in the aftermath of his brothers death in 2016. But he never gave up. Whenever he fell off the horse, he would get back up, dust himself off and try again one of the many reasons I fell in love with him was his persistence. Josh Muir, JXSH (detail), 2017, digital print on aluminium. Credit: Christian Capurro Sheridan who met Muir in a homework group when they were children, reconnecting in 2017 speaks movingly about losing him and the impact on her and their two young children, who were his world. She also celebrates the legacy of his creativity. Loading There were a lot of ups and downs with the art, she says. Hed spend hours and hours in front of the computer some days, creating a piece until hed exhaust himself; then he would have to have a break from it. Hed always come back to it. He couldnt settle for a [regular] job because he was an artist and not just in terms of digital prints: he was a writer, he wrote poems and songs, he collaborated with others. He used to say he couldnt go a day without creating. He was talented at it all. Advertisement Josh Muir, Forever I Live, 2015 digital print on aluminium. In the Forever I Live catalogue, curator Travis Curtin writes of how Muir pushed his work technically and formally. Starting in painting, he soon moved into digital processes and worked across a range of media including video, projection and animation. Known mainly for his digital prints on aluminium, Muir gravitated towards vibrant colours and bold black outlines, with geometric patterns, lines and meaningfully layered imagery. This layering took in a personal iconography that Curtin describes as a suite of symbolic images from which he regularly sampled: crowns, thrones, wings, roses, dingoes, astronauts, faces (including self-portraits), birds, the colours of the Aboriginal flag, and symbols such as the peace sign, dollar sign and crosses. Josh Muir, Foreign Mindset, 2015, digital print on aluminium. Credit: Christian Capurro Much of this was strongly centred on exploring his cultural identity. Curtin points to works such as SOS Blak Australia (2015), We Will Survive (2015) and Coolamon Shield (2019) as examples of the ways in which he examined his heritage. As Muir once explained, Life has changed, we have struggled, been treated badly. But we are still here and growing stronger with each generation. This is our story, a story of unity and survival. Josh Muir, We Will Survive, 2015, digital print on aluminium. Sheridan and Muirs mother, Justine Berg, helped curate Forever I Live and embarked on the complex task, along with the trusts curatorial staff, of tracking down works to give a full picture of his achievements. I didnt know he had done so much work, Sheridan says. Hed speak about it, but having it all there now, I see what he was talking about. Advertisement 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 You could be forgiven for thinking Lonnie Holley is a fictional character, perhaps one dreamed up by Colson Whitehead, the author of The Nickel Boys and The Underground Railroad. His backstory is jaw-dropping. Born in Alabama in 1950, the seventh of 27 children, he says he was traded for a bottle of whiskey at the age of four; at nine he was hit by a car, dragged for a couple of blocks and spent almost three months in a coma; at 11 he was incarcerated in the Alabama Industrial School for Negro Children, a juvenile correctional facility that was nothing more than a slave camp, where the children were sent to do back-breaking work in the cotton fields all day and routinely beaten and abused. Lonnie Holley: his manner of speaking is somewhere between a preacher and a poet Credit: The fact Holley is still alive at the age of 73 is astounding. The fact he became a renowned artist whose sculptures and paintings have been shown at the Smithsonian Institution, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the White House, is even more remarkable. On top of this, last year he released his seventh album, Oh Me Oh My, a visceral and revealing collection of songs about his nightmarish past and his optimism and hope for the future, produced by Jacknife Lee (U2, The Killers, R.E.M.) and featuring guest appearances from high-profile fans including Justin Vernon (Bon Iver), Michael Stipe and Sharon Van Etten. Thumbs up to the universe! Holley exclaims in his trademark greeting, speaking from his managers home in Atlanta, Georgia. Advertisement His left hand is a mass of bangles and rings, which he says protect him when using the tools of his trade while making sculptures from found objects and detritus. He has greying dreadlocks, a hangdog face and large, soulful eyes. His manner of speaking is somewhere between a preacher and a poet, and his answers can wander into discursive asides about the human condition as he talks about planting seeds, seeking water and becoming like the branches of a tree. Of one thing hes sure his art saved him. And it started from a deeply personal and tragic place in his 20s, when he carved gravestones for a niece and nephew who died in a house fire. He went on to obsessively create sculptures from found objects, and in the mid-1980s his work eventually caught the attention of Bill Arnett, a keen collector and outspoken promoter of the work of African-American artists from the US south. Visual artist and experimental musician Lonnie Holley: The way I make music is I simplify. Credit: David Raccuglia Other people saw what I was doing as picking up a bunch of junk and putting it together, Holley says. Bill came along and saw the stories behind it and what I was trying to do. He understood. Arnett died in 2020. My dad was fighting for the world to understand and appreciate black art from the region we come from, says Arnetts son Matt, who manages Holley. He was trying to change museum systems to force this art into those places that had never welcomed it before, or had stereotyped it as a second-class thing. I watched my dad be a champion for those artists my whole life, and Lonnie was one of them. Advertisement For years Matt had been astounded by the music Holley made for himself on home-made cassettes, but I was a child of Tower Records, where there were all these categories like rock and folk and soul and jazz, and although I loved Lonnies music I didnt know exactly what it was or where it would fit in a record store. Seven albums later, it seems the answer is that Holley doesnt fit in anywhere, and thats exactly the appeal of what he does. Critics have drawn comparisons with the spoken word/proto-rap of Gil Scott-Heron, the experimental jazz of Sun Ra, or the work of so-called outsider artists like Daniel Johnston. But ask Holley about his music and hes direct. The way I make music is I simplify, he says. I dont want to dress it up in a suit and tie and shiny shoes like a dignitary. I want to celebrate my grandmammy and grandpappy and those who lived before, and tell our stories. I want to tell people what Ive learned and what I know. I try to tell it how it is. Loading On his latest album Holley really tells it like it is on the central track Mount Meigs, a frenetic and powerful song about his time at the Alabama Industrial School for Negro Children. Over whirring strings, rattling drums and frazzled shards of electric guitar that suggest the early work of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, he builds his story to a climax with the words: Nobody taught us anything. Got no education. Nobody let us have no wisdom. They beat the curiosity out of me! They beat it out of me! They whooped it! They knocked it! They banged it! Slammed it! Damned it! At the end he softly repeats the words Picture me being there. And you cant help but do so. Despite the bad memories, Holley remains surprisingly positive about his life. I went through trials and tribulations as a child but I grew through it, he says. I was like a big ball of air thrown out onto the water, and the water pushed and rolled and tumbled me. Everything is a test, but you have to realise that youve been blessed with life and you have to heal yourself. And then, boom! Youre blossoming, youre branching out, like a tree. Advertisement In the burgeoning true crime industry, documentaries about con artists are known as no body stories. Theres nothing gory as the galvanising event, no murdered victim whose case must be solved, and the suspect doesnt have blood on their hands. The rationale is that viewers can enjoy the investigation about the misdeed without feeling like morbid onlookers. Conman Hamish McLaren was jailed in June 2019 after stealing $7.66 million from 15 victims over a six-year period. Credit: Seven Network But as veteran Australian factual television producer Jackie Munro discovered, theres no shortage of pain and lasting trauma involved in what some may pass off as a scammers game. In putting together King Con, the story of now jailed Sydney conman Hamish McLaren, Munro sat opposite those taken in by the financial fraudster, who inveigled his way into the lives of victims as a friend or even a lover before ruthlessly pocketing their money through fake investment schemes. It was the cruellest of betrayals: callous and systematic. Hearing their personal stories was just so devastating this has changed their lives forever, theyll never be the same again, Munro says. It might sound like youve only lost some money, or even a lot of money, but its still only money. But what he did to them on a personal level, pretending to be their friend and help them, was such a deep betrayal of trust. Its horrendous to think about. McLaren was jailed by the NSW District Court in June 2019 for a minimum non-parole period of 12 years (this was reduced on appeal in 2021), having been arrested in July 2017 and charged with stealing $7.66 million from 15 victims over a six-year period. The private company charged with running Northern Beaches Hospital will come under the scrutiny of NSW auditors after the state government abandoned a plan to build a specialist mental health unit, saying the company could not fulfil the commitment despite being awarded millions of dollars in taxpayer funds. Following a community campaign led by the family of 14-year-old Joshua Gill, who died just days after being discharged from mental health treatment at the hospital in 2021, the former Coalition government committed $7.5 million towards building a four-bed adolescent mental health, drug and alcohol unit at Northern Beaches Hospital. Andrew Gills son Josh died in horrific circumstances two years ago after failures, his father says, by the Northern Beaches Hospital to treat his mental health issues. Credit: Steven Siewert The funding was announced before the state election, but a change of government and almost two years later, the plan has been shelved. Instead, Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson will on Thursday unveil an alternative plan, including a $500,000 safe haven at Brookvale Community Health Centre, a mental health first responder program, and a liaison service for young people with serious mental health, drug and alcohol issues across the Northern Sydney Local Health District. A Broome bishop has been charged with a string of alleged historical sex offences. Following the acquittal of Cardinal George Pell by the High Court in 2020, Bishop Christopher Saunders on Thursday became the most senior Catholic in the country accused of sex crime offences after police arrested him at his West Australian home. Bishop Christopher Saunders has been arrested overnight. Credit: AAP The 74-year-old spent the night in custody and will appear in Broome Magistrates Court on Thursday, charged with two counts of sexual penetration without consent, 14 counts of unlawful and indecent assault and three counts of indecently dealing with a child as a person of authority. The events over which charges have been laid allegedly occurred in Broome and Kununurra, in WAs north-west, between 2008 and 2013. Airlines must now give reasons for flight cancellations and delays in regular, published audits instigated by the federal government in a crackdown on anticompetitive behaviour that threatens court action against carriers who dont comply. Transport Minister Catherine King announced the transparency overhaul on Wednesday morning in a bid to prevent major carriers from slot-hoarding to muscle out other airlines following longstanding and widespread calls from the industry for change. Transport Minister Catherine King is cracking down on slot-hoarding. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Its a signal to the airlines that the slots are not your property. They are the Australian travelling publics property, King said during a press conference at Sydney International Airport. We obviously need to make changes to the compliance regime ... we want to make sure that we have strong capacity at Sydney Airport for slots to be used not pretended to be used. A skills shortage could derail the federal governments ambitious plan to modernise the navy by building a fleet of frigates and uncrewed drone boats in Perth, the managing director of one of the countrys biggest defence companies has warned. BAE Systems Australia maritime managing director Craig Lockhart, who oversees naval shipyards in Perth and Adelaide, said finding shipbuilders and other workers was significantly more difficult in Western Australia because of the states low unemployment rate and competition from the high-paying resources sector. British shipbuilder BAE Systems will build six Hunter-class frigates for the navy, down from a planned nine. Western Australia was the big winner from the governments $11 billion naval overhaul, with the government announcing it would build up to eight general-purpose frigates at Perths Henderson shipyards after buying three ships from overseas. The government will select a winner from existing designs submitted by German, Spanish, South Korean and Japanese companies. The outgoing head of the Australian Taxation Office, Chris Jordan, says the agency needs police-like powers so it can chase down tax criminals amid a surge in illegal activity including the creation of 30,000 superannuation accounts by bots started on the dark web. Jordan, in his final public address before retiring after 11 years heading the ATO, also revealed on Wednesday that the Tax Office had discovered trickery within the self-managed superannuation sector with more than $600 million illegally accessed from funds. Outgoing ATO boss Chris Jordan says the agency needs stronger powers to deal with the rise in criminal activities. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Jordan was the first person from outside the ATO appointed to head the organisation which last financial year collected $730 billion in tax. The Tax Office was instrumental in the Morrison governments COVID-stimulus rollout while it has been world-leading in its approach to collecting tax from multinational corporations. In an address to the National Press Club, Jordan said one ongoing problem for the ATO was its lack of policing powers. Born in London in 1921, Tony Epstein studied medicine at Cambridge and the Middlesex Hospital, London. He specialised as a virologist and pathologist, studying the ways in which viruses cause disease. While still a research assistant, he worked on the so-called Rous Sarcoma virus from an unusual cancer that affects chickens, becoming very aware that viruses could cause cancer in animals. In 1961 Tony attended a lecture by Denis Burkitt, a doctor working in Uganda. Burkitt described a peculiar cancer that he had observed. Tony spent the next couple of years trying to find a virus in the samples of these tumours, which was subsequently named "Burkitts Lymphoma". He and his newly appointed PhD student, Yvonne Barr, struggled fruitlessly with nothing to show for all their hard work. The deadlock was broken when a biopsy-bearing flight from Kampala had to be diverted to Manchester because of fog. By the time the sample reached Tony, it had gone cloudy usually a sign of bacterial contamination that would consign it to the bin. Tony did not throw it away but examined it carefully. He discovered, to his surprise, that the cloudiness was due to lymphoid tumour cells that had been shaken off the biopsy in transit and were now floating merrily in suspension. Tony exploited this chance finding to grow cell lines, derived from the tumour, in culture. He showed that these stayed alive indefinitely. Tonys Eureka moment soon followed. He put one of the cell lines under the electron microscope for the first time, and almost immediately saw a round blob that others would have dismissed as an artefact, but which he recognised instantly as a virus. He took a photograph that proved his hypothesis and made his name, and indeed that of the virus. Epstein, Barr and their colleague Bert Achong reported their discovery in the Lancet, three years and one week after Tonys meeting with Burkitt. The paper is now a citation classic the scientific equivalent of an Oscar. The significance of the discovery lay in the first-hand evidence that a virus could cause a human cancer. The Epstein-Barr virus, or EBV, is now known to cause malignancies other than glandular fever and Burkitts Lymphoma notably cancers at the back of the nose, especially in China, and tumours that develop in people who are immunosuppressed, either through AIDS or by treatment to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Aside from his scientific excellence, Tony was a true leader. During his career, he was Professor of Pathology at Bristol for 17 years, from 1968 to 1985, and Head of the Department of Pathology for the first 15 of those years. During his time as Head of Pathology, Tony transformed what had been a modest department, largely committed to NHS diagnostic functions and teaching, to one with a broader range of activities involving human and veterinary pathology and a broad spectrum of research enlivened by frequent departmental seminars and lectures. The department became Pathology and Microbiology in 1983 and still thrives as the current School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine with world-class virology research still very much front and centre of the schools mission to "turn science into medicine". Tony will be remembered at Bristol not only for the Epstein-Barr virus but for his leadership in a wide range of excellent research and teaching. Our annual lecture named in his honour will take on extra significance this year as we look to celebrate his outstanding contributions to science and to our University. A charity worker who spent her life fighting to end meningitis has received an honorary degree from the University of Bristol. Linda Glennie helped bring in one of the earliest meningitis vaccines, guided investment into scores of critically important research projects and helped to martial the World Health Organisations global roadmap to defeat the disease by 2030. When Linda joined the charity Meningitis Research Foundation in 1996, she had no idea she would spend 26 years there, helping to save countless lives as its Director of Research, Evidence and Policy. At the time meningitis cases were spiking, with high-profile outbreaks among children and students leading to hearing loss, sight loss, epilepsy, amputations and death. Linda recalled: Cases of meningitis were hugely increasing. Its a cyclical disease that has peaks and troughs and it was something that was suddenly very much in the public eye. People were very worried about it, and at that time, we didnt have vaccines. Global impact From a tiny office in the town of Thornbury, north of Bristol, Meningitis Research Foundation had a global impact. The team fundraised and commissioned 19 million-worth of research into meningitis, brought real life stories from affected families to the fore, built the worlds first meningitis genome library, spearheaded campaigns for vaccines, organised conferences with experts from around the world and educated healthcare workers on how to diagnose and treat it. Linda said that between 1997 and 2010, MRFs investment in meningitis research exceeded that of the Medical Research Council and Department of Health. So important was Lindas role in this, that in retirement she continues to advise health leaders, including as a member of the UKs National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) meningitis guidelines committee. Beyond any call of duty She received an honorary Doctor of Science degree. Introducing her to the graduating students and their loved ones, James Stuart, an honorary professor at the University of Bristols medical school, said that Linda was in constant demand beyond any call of duty. He added: Those who know Linda recognise her modesty, her sense of humour and her timeless energy. She was well regarded by academics across the field of meningitis research and her collaborative style of working was recognised as exceptional. Linda's meticulous attention to detail has led to Meningitis Research Foundations undoubted reputation as a highly trusted source of information, both to scientists working in this field and to the public wanting to know more about meningitis. Her unrelenting quest for answers was much appreciated by families. Taking the stand, Linda said: It has been a huge privilege to work with countless brave individuals who overcome their own personal pain in so many ways to help put an end to the disease that affected them. Ive had the opportunity to work with some of the greatest minds in infectious diseases. I thought it was a scam Meningitis Research Foundation is now based in Bristol and has strong links with the University of Bristol. Linda worked at the University before joining the charity. She had this advice for students: One thing my story shows is that there isnt just one way to find a hugely satisfying and worthwhile career. After finishing my MSc in Canada, teaching in Malawi for a couple of years, travelling around Africa and working at the University, I seemed to be interested in everything but not sufficiently focussed on anything to pursue an academic career, and yet managed to find an all-consuming, vastly fulfilling thing to do with my life: working for Meningitis Research Foundation. After the ceremony, she said she was flabbergasted to be offered an honorary degree from Bristol. I almost deleted the email because I thought it was a scam, she said. Fortunately I didnt delete it and Im really amazed and grateful to be here. Im not used to wearing a robe and hat! Crucial role Vinny Smith, Chief Executive at Meningitis Research Foundation, expressed his delight at Linda receiving an honorary degree, saying: Linda is a star of the meningitis field. During her time at Meningitis Research Foundation, cases and deaths from meningitis fell significantly in the UK and Linda played a crucial role in making that happen. There are people walking around today who dont know Linda but who owe their lives to her work. In the years ahead, her work on the World Health Organizations Global Road Map to Defeat Meningitis by 2030 will spread that impact around the world. And on top of this, she was a joy to work with. Few colleagues have a coffee tin in the fridge with antidote written on it, but that is Linda all over. Serious about research, serious about coffee, silly and fun about all the stuff that should be silly and fun. We are in conversations to close some critical brokers and support staff. The entire team will be up and running by July 1 for FY25, said Bates. The best brokerages are a collection of individuals all striving and supporting each other to be the best they can be and live the lives they wish for. Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) meets with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un in Vladivostok, Russia April 25, 2019. (Photo: Sputnik/Alexei Nikolsky/Kremlin via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY.) Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended a gesture of diplomacy and personal camaraderie by gifting a Russian-made limousine to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, a move that underscores the strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea amid geopolitical tensions. The luxury vehicle, delivered to Pyongyang by a Russian delegation, symbolizes the "special personal relations" between the two leaders, as noted by Kim's sister, Kim Yo-jong, in a statement released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The gift follows Kim Jong Un's expressed admiration for Putin's Aurus Senat Limousine during a visit to Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome last year, where Putin personally showcased the vehicle to the North Korean leader. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the exchange, highlighting Kim's favorable impression of the limousine and reiterating Russia's commitment to fostering relations with its neighboring countries, including North Korea. This development comes as Russia and North Korea draw closer in the wake of the Russian engagement in Ukraine, with Kim Jong Un vocalizing support for Russia's actions. The North Korean leader's visit to Russia and his correspondence with Putin, expressing solidarity against what he termed the "imperialists' anti-Russia scheme," reflect the deepening political alliance between the two nations. The reopening of North Korea's borders to international tourists, including a recent influx of Russian visitors, further indicates a warming of relations and increased cooperation in various sectors, despite the global pandemic and ongoing sanctions imposed by the United Nations. These sanctions, aimed at curbing North Korea's nuclear ambitions, prohibit the sale of luxury goods, including high-end vehicles, to the isolated nation. However, Pyongyang has historically circumvented these restrictions to acquire luxury items for its leadership, as evidenced by previous reports of Kim Jong Un purchasing armored Mercedes vehicles and showcasing similar limousines during military parades. The limousine gift from Putin to Kim Jong Un not only reflects the personal rapport between the two leaders but also serves as a tangible symbol of the strategic partnership evolving between Russia and North Korea. As both countries navigate their respective challenges on the international stage, such gestures of goodwill and mutual support underscore the complex dynamics shaping the global political landscape. The owner of the marijuana farm said he was growing the plants for industrial purposes. (Photo: Image by Stay Regular from Pixabay ) As marijuana legalization spreads across the United States, with 24 states having legalized it for recreational use by 2023, the assumption that legal means safe is being challenged by emerging health concerns. Users like Anne Hassel from Chicopee, Massachusetts, have experienced alarming symptoms, including twitching muscles and nausea, leading to discoveries of heavy metals like nickel, lead, and cadmium in their systems. This narrative disrupts the prevailing notion that legalized cannabis guarantees a risk-free experience. Despite the widespread use of marijuana, estimated by Gallup to engage 17% of Americans, the safety of these products is under scrutiny. The bioaccumulative nature of cannabis plants makes them susceptible to absorbing harmful substances such as heavy metals and pesticides from the soil, alongside fungi, posing significant health risks to consumers. High-profile incidents, like the recall of the "Grim Reefer" strain in Arizona due to contamination with the dangerous Aspergillus fungus, underscore the potential threats lurking within even legal cannabis products. The rise in cannabis-related calls to poison control centers between 2017 and 2019 indicates a growing concern over the safety of these products. Michelle Peace, a professor and forensic toxicologist at Virginia Commonwealth University, highlights a "horror story" where consumers, misled by the presence of cannabis products on store shelves, assume an unwarranted level of safety. This issue is compounded by the lack of standardized testing and regulations across states, leading to a "buyer beware" landscape as noted by Kevin Sabet, a former adviser to three U.S. presidential administrations. While some states enforce stringent guidelines for contaminant testing, others lag behind, leaving consumers vulnerable to the hazards of unregulated products. The health implications of marijuana use extend beyond contamination issues. Recent studies have linked heavy marijuana consumption to a range of adverse outcomes, including heart and lung diseases, and potential impacts on mental health, particularly among adolescents and pregnant women. Despite these risks, marijuana also offers therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief and alleviation of chemotherapy-induced nausea, though the efficacy and safety of these treatments remain subjects of ongoing research. Advocates like Steph Sherer, head of Americans for Safe Access, are calling for increased oversight and consumer safety measures to address these concerns. The call for more standardized federal testing echoes among growers and researchers, who recognize the need for uniform safety protocols to protect consumers without pushing them towards the unregulated black market. This complex landscape underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of marijuana's risks and benefits. As legalization continues to expand, so too must efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers, through rigorous testing, regulation, and education, to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving market. United Auto Workers, Aramark workers, carry strike signs outside the General Motors Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. September 15, 2019. (Photo: REUTERS/Rebecca Cook) The United Auto Workers (UAW) has taken a bold step forward in its efforts to expand its reach and influence within the non-union automobile and electric vehicle (EV) battery sectors in the United States. With a substantial commitment of $40 million over the next two years, the UAW aims to organize workers across a range of companies, from established automakers like Toyota and Mercedes-Benz to newer industry players such as Tesla and Rivian. This strategic initiative follows on the heels of successful labor negotiations with the Detroit Three automakers, which resulted in record new contracts for workers. UAW President Shawn Fain is not only targeting traditional automobile manufacturers but also advocating for the unionization of workers in the burgeoning EV battery industry, which is expected to see a significant increase in job opportunities nationwide. The union's decision to allocate such a significant sum underscores its dedication to not only maintaining but also enhancing labor standards in the face of an evolving automotive landscape. This move comes at a time when the auto industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the shift towards electric mobility and the construction of new battery plants across the country. Particularly in the South, where many of these new facilities are being established, the UAW sees an opportunity to make inroads and ensure that the jobs created in this sector provide fair wages and working conditions. This includes efforts to organize workers at joint venture battery plants associated with major automakers like Ford, which has embarked on significant projects in Tennessee and Kentucky in partnership with SK On Co. Ltd. The UAW's commitment is seen as a testament to its resolve to adapt to industry changes and fight for workers' rights in new and emerging sectors. Art Wheaton, an automotive industry specialist at Cornell University, views the $40 million investment as a clear signal of the UAW's serious intent to organize effectively and responsibly. The UAW's organizing drive has already shown signs of momentum, with more than 10,000 non-union autoworkers across 14 targeted automakers expressing their support for union representation. Notably, a majority of workers at Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tennessee plant have signed authorization cards, marking a significant milestone in the UAW's campaign. As the UAW pushes forward with its ambitious organizing efforts, the automotive industry and labor movement watchers will be keenly observing the impact of this substantial financial commitment. The success of these initiatives could reshape the labor landscape in the auto and EV battery sectors, setting new standards for worker representation and collective bargaining in an era of technological innovation and environmental sustainability. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das during the Financial Stability and Development Council meet in New Delhi on Wednesday The Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC), an apex-level body constituted by the government, met here on Wednesday to discuss formulating a strategy to simplify and digitalise Know Your Customer (KYC) process in the financial sector. The meeting assumed greater significance amid the heightened regulatory scrutiny of the financial sector, especially the clampdown on Paytm Payments Bank for persistent non-compliance of KYC and other norms. Chairing the 28th FSDC meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also asked financial sector regulators to take further measures to check the spread of unauthorised lending through online apps and its harmful effects, according to a statement issued by the ministry. The FSDC considered the domestic and global macro-financial situation and emphasised that the members need to maintain constant vigilance and continue their proactive efforts towards detecting emerging financial stability risks and taking necessary measures to maintain the resilience of the sector, the statement said. The FSDC, which acts like a super regulator with heads of financial regulators as its members, deals with issues relating to financial stability, inter-regulatory coordination and macro prudential supervision of the economy among other things. Besides the action on Paytm Payments Bank, the central bank had also recently imposed restrictions on a card network for commercial transactions routed through intermediaries. The RBI had not named the network. The meeting deliberated on the ways of prescribing uniform KYC norms and inter-usability of KYC records across the financial sector. The ongoing inter-regulatory issues to support GIFT IFSC in its strategic role in facilitating foreign capital and financial services for the domestic economy also came up. The meeting also focused on various issues related to formulation of strategy to implement decisions of the FSDC and the Union Budget announcements, besides exchanging views on kickstarting fund-raising by social enterprises through social stock exchanges. RBI governor Shaktikanta Das, Securities and Exchange Board of India chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India chairman Debasish Panda, chief economic adviser V Anantha Nageswaran and other finance ministry bureaucrats attended the meeting. To allay the fears of the fintech industry in the backdrop of the recent RBI actions, Sitharaman has called a meeting of top executives of the sector on February 26. The meeting is expected to discuss both regulatory compliance as well as promoting innovation in the sector. The Election Commission of India on Wednesday asserted that low voter turnout was a cause for concern in Bihar, known as the land that gave birth to democracy and still inhabited by politically aware citizens. Chief Election Commissioner Rajeev Kumar made the averment at a press conference here, before concluding his three-day tour of the state for reviewing preparedness ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. "Bihar is known as the mother of democracy," said Kumar, in an apparent reference to the ancient republic of Vaishali. Even though people of the state are known to be politically aware, the voter turnout here has been "poor", he said. "In 2019, it was not just below the national average, but second lowest in the country. Only Jammu and Kashmir had registered a lower voting percentage," Kumar said. The CEC said several steps were being taken to ensure improvement in turnout with a special focus on those segments where this was particularly low. "We have noted that the voting percentage in 2019 was lower in the urban areas. The state has 16 assembly segments which are predominantly urban. In 12 of these, which is 75 per cent of the total, the turnout was lower than the state average of 57.33 per cent," the CEC disclosed. In addition, the commission has identified 14 per cent polling booths with voter turnout of less than 47 per cent, which is more than 10 per cent lower than the state average, he said. "In nine districts, 31 assembly segments have been marked out for a substantially lower turnout of female voters", Kumar said. District electoral officers have been asked to ensure better turnout by making use of messaging, in local dialects, on platforms like FM radio channels and social media, he said. The chief election commissioner also expressed hope that a significant rise in the number of young voters would lead to a substantial improvement in the overall turnout this time. "As of now, Bihar has roughly 7.64 crore voters, of whom more than two crore are under the age of 30 years. While 9.26 lakh people are in the age group of 18-19 years and will be exercising their franchise for the first time, another 1.6 crore are aged between 20 and 29 years", he said. The CEC also said that since 2019, the state has added 31.09 lakh female voters of whom 4.5 lakh are in the age group of 18-19 years. The overall electoral gender ratio has risen steadily since 2014, when it was 877, increased to 892 and now stands at 909. Of the state's 243 assembly segments, the ratio in 117 was higher than the state average. The overall strength of female voters was 3.64 crore while transgender voters were 2,290 in number. There were 6.30 lakh people with disabilities while 14.50 lakh fell in the category of very senior citizens, 21,680 of them centenarians. For the elderly and the disabled, arrangements like wheelchairs will be made at the polling booths. "In the Bihar assembly polls of 2020, held in the midst of the COVID pandemic, we had for the first time offered the facility of sending polling officials to the homes of senior citizens with disabilities so that they could cast their votes there. This facility will continue", the chief election commissioner said. With the proposal to quash the Urban Land Ceiling Act by the West Bengal government, the investment opportunities in the state will jump significantly, realtors said Motilal Oswal Alternates (MO Alts), the alternative investments arm of Motilal Oswal Financial Services, on Wednesday said it has successfully closed the first tranche of its sixth real estate fund, India Realty Excellence Fund VI (IREF VI) and has secured commitments of approximately Rs 1,250 crore in this first close. The company said it is a significant milestone for MO Alts, achieving the largest and fastest first close for any of their real estate funds to date. The fund will scout for opportunities in real estate in Kolkata and seven other top cities of India including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Pune, Bangalore and Chennai. IREF VI strategically focuses on early-stage investments, primarily targeting mid-income/affordable residential projects across India's top eight cities. "This successful fundraising, even amidst a buoyant equity market, underscores the unwavering trust our investors have placed in our capabilities," MO Alts, MD & CEO, Vishal Tulsyan said. MO Alts said it boasts a strong track record, having invested in over 150 real estate projects, funding Rs 7,500 crore across 50 developers, and successfully exited over 85 investments with an impressive return exceeding 20 per cent over pre-approval bets. The fund, structured as an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF Category-II) the first close (which is commonly referred to as an initial offer) saw participation from high net-worth individuals, non-resident Indians, and family offices/corporates. With the proposal to quash the Urban Land Ceiling Act by the West Bengal government, the investment opportunities in the state will jump significantly, realtors said. Saurabh Rathi, Co-Head (Real Estate) at MO Alts said, "The Indian real estate market has shown remarkable resilience and growth in recent years. The residential sector is witnessing decadal high demand, and the office market is experiencing strong absorption, nearing pre-pandemic peaks. With indicators suggesting continued momentum, the demand for early-stage capital is increasing significantly. By Preeti Singh and Anup Roy For Indian regulators seeking to crack down on potential fraud in the financial sector, Paytm may just be the beginning. India stunned investors last month by abruptly suspending most activities of the banking affiliate of Paytm, a once high-flying fintech star that had attracted backing from Warren Buffett and SoftBank Group Corp. While the Paytm case was an extreme example of lapses in customer verification it allegedly used a single identity document to open thousands of accounts the crackdown signals growing impatience from authorities. Hardly a day passes when a bank or fintech firm isnt fined for failing to properly vet its customers, ensnaring top lenders from State Bank of India to Citigroup Inc. Fed up with the persistent shortcomings, the Reserve Bank of India is likely to get even tougher before Governor Shaktikanta Das steps down this year. RBI has enough tools and a penalty is just the beginning, said Prakash Agarwal, founder of Gefion Capital Advisors. He said the fines serve as a symbolic warning for more dire measures to come, such as a sledgehammer action taken against Paytm bank. Regulatory concerns are rising as lenders rush to open more accounts and mop up deposits to meet the soaring demand for loans in the fastest-growing major economy. Most banks typically outsource the last mile of customer verification to third-party firms or so-called runners, and leakages occur at many points in that largely paper process, according to Ashok Hariharan, chief executive officer of IDfy, which provides client vetting services to banks and fintechs firms in India. While big banks can do more, its a challenge dealing with firms that dont have strict fraud and risk teams, he said. RBI Governor Das has repeatedly warned about the need to strengthen risk management in banks and shadow lenders. Even though bad debts are at a more than decade low, these lapses in customer verification have been among major concerns for the central bank. The interest of depositors and customers is of prime importance, Das said in a post-monetary policy briefing this month. Financial stability is of prime importance. While Indian banks have boosted spending on technology to detect potential money laundering and prevent fraud, the cases are rising. The number of reported frauds of more than 100,000 rupees ($1,205) rose 68 per cent to more than 14,000 from April to September last year, almost triple the rate for the previous six-month period, according to an RBI report. The sharpest increase of fraud cases was in credit cards, online transactions and deposits, the data show. RBI, which can levy a maximum penalty of 50 million rupees for violations, imposed fines of 400 million rupees in the fiscal year that ended in March, down from 650.3 million rupees the prior year. Still, in the current fiscal year, the frequency of such fines has increased sharply, as can be parsed from the central banks website. RBI getting stricter on KYC is the right thing to do, and people are going to get serious about it now, said IDfys Hariharan. In many instances, there is a frivolous attitude toward KYC. Customer data in the country has been misused, according to Hariharan. In a typical set-up, fraudsters pay runners who collect so-called Know-Your-Customer documents for bank customers and offer them as little as 500 rupees for the data, he said. This allows fraudsters to operate multiple bank accounts from the identity theft, and they collect money in these accounts by duping customers largely through phishing calls, he added. Crackdown In addition to its crackdown on banks, RBI ordered Visa Inc. this month to immediately stop a payments service where cards were used to transact with merchants who werent allowed to accept such payments. Yet no recent case has drawn as much attention as Paytm, controlled by billionaire Vijay Shekhar Sharma. The firm burst onto Indias equity markets in 2021 with a $2.5 billion initial public offering, the largest ever in the country and attracted a whos who of global investors. Masayoshi Sons SoftBank was on board, as was China fintech giant Ant Group Co. and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Its affiliate company, which takes deposits and offers payment services much like PayPal Holdings Inc., has been in the regulators crosshairs. On Jan. 31, Indias central bank barred Paytm Payments Bank Ltd. from accepting fresh credits in its customer accounts or mobile wallets after Feb. 29. Bloomberg News has reported that hundreds of thousands of customers didnt submit their KYC documentation. The RBI move dealt a big blow to Paytm and sent its stock tumbling. Regulators last week extended that deadline to March 15, and Paytm is in talks with other banks to clear merchant payments. Compliance and accountability are big challenges for the financial system, which now includes a lot of links among banks, fintechs and others, according to K.V. Karthik, who leads the financial services sector for Deloitte in India. With such a sharp growth in so many small fintech firms in the ecosystem, RBI probably wants to put out a stern and clear message that everyone must follow rules very seriously, said Gefion Capitals Agarwal. Japan plans to launch a digital nomad visa by the end of March 2024, which would enable a person to legally live and work remotely from anywhere in the country for six months. The visa caters to those with an annual income of 10 million ($68,300) or more. The visa will allow citizens of 49 countries to stay in the nation for up to six months and India is not on this list of countries. These eligible nations have signed a tax treaty with the country or are visa-exempt when visiting Japan. The list of eligible nations includes all EU countries, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Monaco, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom, reported Euronews. However, as of now, India is not on the list. Click here to follow our WhatsApp channel A digital nomad is a person who works remotely but only stays in one place for a short or mid-term period. For example, if you are a freelance graphic designer with clients based in the United States, then you can apply for Croatias digital nomad visa. However, you cannot then be hired by a Croatian company or take on a Croatian client during your visa term. This visa allows you to legally reside in a foreign country without changing your job. Applicants must hold a private health policy and this visa extends to spouses and children of the applicant too. One must work for an employer or corporation outside of the host nation or own a business that can be managed from anywhere in the world to be eligible for this visa. The visa mainly targets IT professionals as well as highly skilled professionals. This visa extends to self-employed and freelancing individuals, meaning applicants need not be employed by a separate company. It is also expected to apply to YouTubers as well as those who make revenue from overseas advertisers. "The authorities do not permit the visa holder to apply for a residence certificate in Japan. Though India is not on the list of the 49 countries like US , Europe and others, but sooner or later India will make it to the list," said Alay Razvi, Partner ( Accord Juris LLP, Hyderabad). The visa cannot be renewed and must be reapplied for, with this only possible six months after leaving the country. More than 50 countries currently issue digital nomad visas but the length of the period of stay differs: For example, South Korea allows stays of up to two years, while Taiwan allows three years, after which those eligible can even apply for permanent residency. " Even countries with relatively strict immigration policies are seeing the advantages of attracting individuals who work remotely and have disposable income, to stimulate their economies. The digital nomad visa is not restricted to individuals and can be enjoyed by the visa holders family as well. However, after the expiry of six months, there would be no renewal for a cooling off period of 6 months from the expiry of the initial visa. The visa holders would have to purchase individual health insurance policy," said Vipul Jai, Partner, PSL Advocates & Solicitors Nomadlist.com a website that tracks tens of thousands of digital nomads estimates there are around 35 million digital nomads around the world, with the majority of them coming from North America and Europe. "This kind of Visa would be advantageous to the visitors as well as the host in the sense that the visitor would be able to legally live and work from anywhere in the country, which would in turn help the economy of host country," said Shashank Agarwal, Advocate, Delhi High Court. Eminent jurist and senior advocate Fali S Nariman has passed away at the age of 95. He served as the president of the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010 and was awarded the Padma Bhushan (1991) and Padma Vibhushan (2007), among India's highest civilian honours, for his contributions to the field of law. Nariman was born on January 10, 1929, in Rangoon, Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar). He completed his education in law at the Government Law College in Mumbai and started his legal career in the early 1950s. Nariman quickly gained recognition for his exceptional legal acumen and advocacy skills. Click here to follow our WhatsApp channel Throughout his career, Nariman held various prestigious positions, including serving as Additional Solicitor General of India (1972-1975) and as a Rajya Sabha member (1999-2005). He had been associated with several legal bodies and institutions, including the International Commission of Jurists and the Indian Law Institute. In June 1975, he resigned as the additional solicitor general of India to protest against the Indira Gandhi government's decision to declare an emergency. Nariman was the father of Rohinton Nariman, who served as a judge of the Supreme Court. Fali Nariman was involved in several landmark judgments in India. Kesavananda Bharati v State of Kerala (1973): Nariman assisted Nani Palkhivala in arguing against the government's attempt to amend the Indian Constitution to curtail fundamental rights. This case resulted in the "Basic Structure Doctrine," which limits Parliament's power to amend certain core principles of the Constitution. Maneka Gandhi v Union of India (1978): Nariman represented Maneka Gandhi in this case, which expanded the scope of the right to personal liberty and laid down important principles regarding due process and procedural fairness. SR Bommai v Union of India (1994): Nariman represented the State of Karnataka in this case, which dealt with the issue of imposition of President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court laid down guidelines to prevent arbitrary use of Article 356. Naz Foundation v Government of NCT of Delhi (2009): Nariman argued against the constitutionality of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexual acts. Although he wasn't directly involved in the judgment, his arguments laid the groundwork for subsequent legal challenges leading to the decriminalization of homosexuality in India. In addition to his legal career, Nariman was also a respected public intellectual, frequently expressing his views on constitutional matters, human rights, and legal reforms through articles, lectures, and public appearances. Farmers take cover inside a container as police fire tear gas during a protest, as farmers march towards New Delhi at Shambhu barrier, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states, India, February 21, 2024. REUTERS/Adnan Abidi The protesting farmers on Wednesday suspended their 'Delhi Chalo march' for two days and will decide the next course of action on Friday after a protestor was killed and several others were injured in clashes on the Punjab-Haryana border. Farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa identified the dead farmer as Subhkaran Singh (21). A resident of Baloke village in Punjab's Bathinda district, Subhkaran died at Khanauri border point on the Sangrur-Jind border. Punjab farmers at Khanauri and Shambhu resumed their agitation early in the morning after the fourth round of talks on Sunday night with a panel of three Union ministers in an attempt to break the deadlock. Earlier in the morning, agriculture minister Arjun Munda offered to sit with protesting farmers for a fifth round of talks on all outstanding issues including the vexed issue of Minimum Support Price (MSP), while appealing to the farmers to maintain peace. "After four rounds of talks, the government is ready for the fifth round of discussions on all issues like MSP, diversification of crops, stubble burning and pending cases. I invite all the farmer leaders for another round of talks. We need to maintain peace," Munda said in a statement. To press the Centre to accept their demands, thousands of farmers will remain camped at the two border points during the pause in the agitation. The farmers have been camping at the border points since February 13 along with their tractor-trolleys, mini-vans and pickup trucks. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were also seen at the protest sites, with police cautioning that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. In a post on X, the Haryana Police asked owners of excavators to withdraw their machines from the protest sites, saying they may be used to cause harm to security forces. "It is a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable," police said. The Haryana Police on Tuesday had urged its Punjab police to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border points, saying protesters might use these to break barricades. These could pose a threat to security forces, Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapoor said in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart Gaurav Yadav. During the last round of talks, which ended past midnight on Sunday, the panel of three Union ministers had proposed buying five crops - moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton - from farmers at MSP for five years through central agencies. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the government to accept the farmers' demands. Talks between the farmer leaders and three Union ministers - Piyush Goyal, Munda and Nityananad Rai - were held on February 8, 12, 15 and 18. The farmers are also demanding the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and "justice" for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. The 21st round of the India-China corps commander level meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on February 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said | Representative image India and China agreed to maintain "peace and tranquillity" on the ground in border areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh during a fresh round of high-level military talks earlier this week. However, there was no clear forward movement at Monday's talks in resolution of the more than three-and-half-year lingering row in a number of friction points, people familiar with the matter said. The 21st round of the India-China corps commander level meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on February 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "The discussions built on the previous rounds, seeking complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas," it said in a statement. The MEA said the two sides shared their perspectives on the matter in the talks held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. "The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms," it said. "They also committed to maintain peace and tranquillity on the ground in the border areas in the interim," the MEA added. The attack took place in Muwasi, a sandy, mostly undeveloped strip of land along the coast that has been transformed into a sprawling tent camp with little in the way of basic services photo: reuters Israeli strikes across Gaza killed at least 67 Palestinians overnight and into Wednesday, including in areas where civilians have been told to seek refuge. The Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir al-Balah says it received 44 bodies after multiple strikes in central Gaza. Associated Press reporters saw the bodies arriving in ambulances and private vehicles. Also Wednesday, the aid group Doctors Without Borders said that two people were killed when a shelter housing staff in the Gaza Strip was struck during an Israeli operation in an area where Palestinians have been told to seek shelter. While details are still emerging, ambulance crews have now reached the site, where at least two family members of our colleagues have been killed and six people wounded. We are horrified by what has taken place," the group said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The attack took place in Muwasi, a sandy, mostly undeveloped strip of land along the coast that has been transformed into a sprawling tent camp with little in the way of basic services. The war began when Hamas-led militants rampaged into southern Israel on Oct 7, killing some 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage. About a fourth of some 130 captives still being held are believed to be dead. Israel has laid waste to much of the Palestinian territory in response. Gaza's Health Ministry estimates more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed. To address these concerns, companies should adopt actions like setting clear expectations, managing workloads efficiently, investing in training, and providing regular feedback A significant percentage of recruiters believe cultivating a positive work environment and rewards and recognition are essential to boost employees' productivity as against traditional time-based metrics, according to a survey. In contrast to the traditional approaches of evaluating employees based on time and attendance tracking, 7 out of 10 employers prioritise quality work and key performance indicators like targets and project completion rate as the primary indicator of productivity. The survey by jobs and professional networking platform apna.co said that the move towards quality work and target completion as against traditional time-based metrics marks a major shift in productivity assessment approaches. As per the survey, 77 per cent of recruiters believe cultivating a positive work environment and rewards and recognition are essential to boost employees' productivity. Moreover, 5 out of 10 recruiters preferred training and development and regular feedback to minimise distractions and enhance focus during work hours. The survey involved over 5,000 employers to delve into the evolving dynamics of productivity assessment in the workplace. "In today's fast-paced work environment, effective workplace communication and a positive work environment are paramount for fostering productivity. "Our survey also observed a fundamental change in the perspective of employers who are addressing productivity killers and embracing strategies to foster a positive and efficient work culture by focusing on high-quality work instead of mere time-punching, encouraging breaks and leaves," Nirmit Parikh, Founder & CEO of apna.co said. The survey noted that poor communication and an unhealthy work environment affect productivity in an organisation. To address these concerns, companies should adopt actions like setting clear expectations, managing workloads efficiently, investing in training, and providing regular feedback. The cement manufacturer informed that it proposes to establish a cement grinding unit with an investment of Rs 1000 crore in Motia Village of Jharkhand with a capacity of 4 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). The company already operates two cement plants in Jharkhand with a combined capacity of 6 MTPA. It added that the proposed expansion demonstrates Ambuja Cements' confidence in the region's potential for growth and development. Ajay Kapur, CEO, Cement Business, said, "With our proposed investment in this new cement grinding unit, we intend to achieve a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding our presence and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. We believe that Jharkhand holds immense potential in terms of resources, infrastructure, and skilled manpower, making it an ideal location for this project. We look forward to working closely with the state to ensure the successful implementation of this project. Ambuja Cements is proud to be a part of Jharkhand's growth story, and we remain committed to creating value for our shareholders, customers, employees, and the community at large. Ambuja Cements is engaged in the business to manufacture and market cement and cement related products. The companys consolidated net profit surged 89.5% to Rs 823.05 crore on 2.8% increased in revenue from operation to Rs 8,128.80 crore in Q3 FY24 over Q3 FY23. The scrip shed 0.59% to Rs 585.30 on the BSE. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content The unit will generate direct and indirect employment for over 2,500 individuals, significantly contributing to the economic and social progress of the state, stated the cement maker. For a residential and resort project in Chennai Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content Brigade Group has announced expansion plans in the residential and hospitality sectors in Chennai. The company has signed a joint development agreement with PVP Ventures to develop 2.5 million square feet, high- rise residential project, spread across 16 acres in the bustling neighbourhood of Perambur, Chennai with a revenue potential of about Rs 2000 crore. Brigade has also signed a 45-year lease agreement to build a 250-room resort on East Coast Road (ECR), and is in talks with leading hoteliers for management of operations. HFCL added 1.49% to Rs 112.40 after the company's board approved to the strategic expansion into Europe with the setting up of optical fiber cable (OFC) manufacturing facility in Poland, Europe. The existing capacity is 25.00 mfkm/pa, the current ongoing expansion is up to 10.00 mfkm/pa and the proposed further capacity addition by 3.25 mfkm/pa. The proposed manufacturing facility in Poland will be constructed with an initial capacity of 3.25 mfkm p.a. with a capital outlay up to Rs 144 crore through debts and internal accruals financing mode. This facility is scalable up to 7 mfkm p.a. The proposed capacity is expected to be added by February 2025. The company said that it aims to ramp up share of exports in its OFC vertical revenue from the current 30% to 70% within the next 4-5 years. Mahendra Nahata, managing director, HFCL, said, Our decision to set up a manufacturing unit in Poland underscores our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers. With Europe expected to remain a key market for optical fiber cable led communication, our foray into Poland not only ensures unfettered access to this growing European market but also helps improve the agility and responsiveness in catering to increasing optical fiber cable demands of our customers. With this strategic expansion, we are poised to align with Europe's vision, which anticipates gigabit connectivity as a cornerstone of its future. Our commitment to Europe's digital future is based on the unique approach of superior quality, customised solutions and innovative solutions in fastest turnaround time. HFCL is a leading technology company specializing in creating digital networks for telcos, enterprises, and governments. Over the years, HFCL has emerged as a trusted partner offering sustainable high-tech solutions with a commitment to providing the latest technology products to its customers. HFCLs strong R&D expertise coupled with its global system integration services and decades of experience in fiber optics enable it to deliver innovative digital network solutions required for the most advanced networks. The company's consolidated net profit declined 14.44% to Rs 82.24 crore on 4.92% fall in revenue from operations to Rs 1,032.31 crore in Q3 FY24 over Q3 FY23. The scrip hit a 52 week high at Rs 115.70 in intraday today. Powered by Capital Market - Live News Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content The establishment of the manufacturing facility in Poland will be facilitated through the incorporation of a new stepdown subsidiary in Poland under HFCL B.V., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company in the Netherlands. He claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to the Rajya Sabha for only 20 minutes when the issues of common people are discussed and policy decisions taken during Parliament sessions. Senior politician Sharad Pawar has claimed fundamental rights are under attack in the country and the government is not bothered about progressive ideology. A united stand should be taken against "regressive" powers, he said addressing a function on Tuesday after unveiling the memorial of slain Leftist leader Govind Pansare in Maharashtra's Kolhapur city. "Today, power is being misused, free voice suppressed, restrictions are brought on free writing, and news channels are being blocked. This means those in power are not bothered about the attacks on fundamental rights," Pawar alleged. While "regressive" powers are rising in the country, rulers are not at all bothered about the progressive ideology, the NCP Sharadchandra Pawar chief said. He claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to the Rajya Sabha for only 20 minutes when the issues of common people are discussed and policy decisions taken during Parliament sessions. "At the start of the session, (Prime Minister) bows down at the door of Parliament. This is theatrics," the former Union minister claimed. He listed incidents like the arrest of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, the attack on organisers of 'Nirbhay Bano' event in Pune, and "harassment" of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to allege growing intolerance. Senior journalist Nikhil Wagle's car was recently attacked when he was headed for the 'Nirbhay Bano' event in Pune. "In Jharkhand, fake cases were foisted against a tribal chief minister and he was arrested. Arvind Kejriwal is being harassed by putting his ministers in jail," said Pawar. He alleged that central agencies like the ED are being misused and different yardsticks are being applied for the people who take a different stand and those who are genuinely corrupt. The fight is not restricted to elections but a vow should be taken to support those people who have been oppressed, and for that, all the like-minded progressive powers need to come together, Pawar said. He said fighting regressive tendencies would be the real tribute to Pansare. CPI leader Govind Pansare was fired upon on February 16, 2015, in Kolhapur by some unidentified men. He succumbed to his injuries four days later. Pawar also recalled the murders of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar and Kannada scholar MM Kalburgi. "The attackers think that they will destroy progressive powers. But the ideological fight needs to be fought with ideology. However, the tendencies without any ideology take law in their hands and commit such acts," he said. CPI leader D Raja recalled his association with the late Pansare. "Currently, the primary responsibility of all the people is to save India. People should vote against the communal forces and defeat the BJP," he said. At a bustling construction site outside of Dallas, there are hopes that Congress can finally pass nearly $95 billion in foreign aid including funding for Ukraine because factory jobs in the United States depend on that money. Aerospace and defence company General Dynamics' new factory in the Dallas suburb of Mesquite is expected to initially employ 150 people to produce munitions. Set to open in June, construction is nearing completion, with newly planted trees and shrubs already in place at the complex overlooking one of the area's busiest interstates. We want to increase our wages and increase our skill levels and job opportunities, said Kim Buttram, Mesquite's director of economic development, who added that the factory is expected to have over 300 jobs when it's at full production. As President Joe Biden pushes House Republicans to pass needed aid, he wants voters to understand that nearly two-thirds or nearly $40 billion of the money for Ukraine would actually go to US factories spread out across the country including plants in Lima, Ohio and Scranton, Pennsylvania as well as Mesquite. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has refused to put the bill up for a vote on the House floor on the premise that it does not meet the needs of the American public. The supplemental spending measure contains a total of $95 billion in foreign aid, including money for Ukraine, Israel and other countries. Of the $60.7 billion for Ukraine, $38.8 billion would go to US factories that make missiles, munitions and other gear, according to figures provided to The Associated Press by the Biden administration. While this bill sends military equipment to Ukraine, Biden said Tuesday, it spends the money right here in the United States of America in places like Arizona, where the Patriot missiles are built; and Alabama, where the Javelin missiles are built; and Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas, where artillery shells are made. The president's argument challenges criticism by some Republican lawmakers that the federal government should be spending more money at home instead of supporting overseas wars. In this case, most of the money goes to US companies and workers, funding assembly lines to refill depleted stockpiles of weapons and gear that have already gone to Ukraine. The Democratic president is openly channeling Franklin Delano Roosevelt and resurrecting the World War II-era concept that America is the arsenal of democracy. His sales pitch to the public is that his foreign policy is also about jobs for the US middle class. But Biden is brushing up against opposition from former President Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner who ascended to the White House in 2016 on the promise of reviving US manufacturing. Trump opposes the US package to help Ukraine and has openly expressed a willingness to let Russia invade NATO allies who do not spend enough of their own budgets on defence. Many Republicans in Congress have taken their lead from Trump, with the party's right flank increasingly questioning the value of US interventions around the world and long-standing alliances built in the aftermath of World War II. Johnson has refused to bring the foreign aid bill up for a vote because it also lacks provisions to secure the US southern border where immigrants are crossing illegally. But he previously rejected a bipartisan Senate bill that did provide funding to address immigration challenges, saying that the border measures would not solve the problem in the way that he wanted. The Republican-led House will not be jammed or forced into passing a foreign aid bill that was opposed by most Republican senators, Johnson said at a news conference last week. It's time for Washington to start showing some love to Americans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, in contrast, has repeatedly implored his colleagues to understand that the funds from the package are for historic investments right here in America. This is about rebuilding the arsenal of democracy, McConnell, R-Kentucky, said in a floor speech during the long days of debate, and demonstrating to our allies and adversaries alike that we're serious about exercising American strength. The Mesquite factory sits in the congressional district of Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, who told Fox Business News in a December interview that he couldn't tell his constituents that he voted for money for Ukraine without also getting money to secure the US southern border. I will never support any funding for Ukraine that does not include major measures of security at our own southern border, said Gooden. His office did not respond to questions sent over email from The Associated Press for this story. US factories shipped out nearly $162 billion worth of military goods last year, according to the Census Bureau. The shipments increased 8.1 per cent compared to 2022. The supplemental funding could further drive factory production upward this year. But defence manufacturing can be volatile. Spending declined between 2010 and 2015. It then grew over the next four years, only to dip in 2021 and then climb again after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Biden administration has made an increase in the manufacturing capacity of defence contractors a priority, with a plan to increase the production of 155-millimeter artillery shells six-fold over three years. The supplemental bill stalled in the House would expand these efforts by making new investments in production lines for weapons and revitalizing the industrial base for submarine production, according to the White House. But on Friday, after news of the death of imprisoned Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, Biden again pushed House Republicans to pass aid to Ukraine and take a stand against Russian leader Vladimir Putin. But the House had gone into recess on Thursday afternoon. It's about time they step up don't you think? instead of going on a two-week vacation, Biden said. What are they thinking? My God, this is bizarre. The deal was the first agreement between Israel and the militant group since a weeklong cease-fire in November, but there was no evidence that the medications had arrived | Photo: Shutterstock The Qatari Foreign Ministry said that Hamas has started delivering medication for the approximately 100 hostages held in Gaza, a month after the medications arrived in Gaza. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Dr. Majed Al-Ansari said on Tuesday evening that Hamas confirmed they had begun to deliver the medications to the hostages in exchange for medicines and humanitarian aid for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. France and Qatar mediated a deal in January for the shipment of medicine for dozens of hostages held by Hamas arrived in Gaza. The deal was the first agreement between Israel and the militant group since a weeklong cease-fire in November, but there was no evidence that the medications had arrived. France said it took months to organise the shipment of the medicines. Qatar, which has long served as a mediator with Hamas, helped broker the deal that will provide three months' worth of medication for chronic illnesses for 45 of the hostages, as well as other medicine and vitamins. Several older men are among the remaining hostages. An Israeli sabotage attack on an Iranian natural gas pipeline caused the multiple explosions that struck it a week ago, Iran's oil minister alleged on Wednesday, further raising tensions between the regional archenemies amid Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The comments by Iran's Oil Minister Javad Owji come as Israel has been blamed for a series of attacks targeting Tehran's nuclear programme. The explosion of the gas pipeline was an Israeli plot, Owji said, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. The enemy intended to disturb gas service in the provinces and put people's gas distribution at risk. He added: The evil action and plot by the enemy was properly managed. Owji provided no evidence to support his claims. Israel has not acknowledged carrying out the attack, though it rarely claims its espionage missions abroad. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a longtime foe of Iran, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The blasts on February 14 hit a natural gas pipeline running from Iran's western Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province up north to cities on the Caspian Sea. The roughly 1,270-kilometre pipeline begins in Asaluyeh, a hub for Iran's offshore South Pars gas field. Owji earlier compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 including around the anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran marked the 45th anniversary of the revolution just days before the pipeline blasts. Israel has carried out attacks in Iran that have predominantly targeted its nuclear programme. Last week, the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog warned that Iran is not entirely transparent regarding its atomic programme, particularly after an official who once led Tehran's programme announced the Islamic Republic has all the pieces for a weapon in our hands. Tensions over Iran's nuclear program comes as groups that Tehran is arming in the region Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels have launched attacks targeting Israel over the war in Gaza. The Houthis continue to attack commercial shipping in the region, sparking repeated airstrikes from the United States and the United Kingdom. Despite a month of US-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they seriously damaged a ship in a crucial strait and downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. Meanwhile on Wednesday, a suspected Israeli strike hit a neighbourhood in Syria's capital, Damascus, where other likely Israeli strikes have targeted members of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. Israeli strikes hit a neighbourhood of the Syrian capital on Wednesday morning, killing two people and causing material damage, Syria's state TV said. There was no confirmation of the strikes from Israel. The Syrian state TV reported that several missiles hit the western neighbourhood of Kfar Sousseh but did not elaborate or say who were the people killed. The pro-government Sham FM radio station said the strike hit a building near an Iranian school. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based opposition war monitor, said the two killed were inside an apartment but did not give any clues about their identities. He added that the strike was similar to last month's killing in Beirut of Saleh Arouri, a top official with the militant Palestinian Hamas group. The strike damaged the fourth floor of a 10-story building, shattered window glass on nearby buildings and also damaged dozens of cars parked in the area. An empty parked bus for the nearby Al-Bawader Private School was also damaged and people were seen rushing to the school to take their children. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of war-torn Syria in recent years. Israel rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria, but it has said that it targets bases of Iran-allied militant groups, such as Lebanon's Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces. Last month, an Israeli strike on the Syrian capital's western neighbourhood of Mazzeh destroyed a building used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, killing at least five Iranians. In December, an Israeli airstrike on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Seyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria. Israel has also targeted Palestinian and Lebanese operatives in Syria over the past years. Mavenir, the cloud-native network infrastructure provider building the future of networks, and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a leader enabling intelligent computing everywhere, today announce the latest developments in the technology leaders strategic collaboration to deliver energy-efficient solutions for high-density cell site configurations that will drive enhanced 5G coverage and capacity in urban areas. The ongoing collaboration is leveraging the Qualcomm X100 5G RAN Accelerator Card and Mavenirs Open virtualised Radio Access Network (Open vRAN) solution to accelerate operator deployment of cloud-native, virtualised Open 5G networks designed to enable enhanced scalability, sustainability, capacity, and efficiency. Mavenir and Qualcomm Technologies solution optimises Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for operators by substantially reducing CPU/core usage and energy consumption requirements through improved power efficiency. This delivers an ideal solution for delivery at scale, including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) deployments where an extensive network rollout is required to provide robust coverage and connectivity. Moreover, the joint solution offers more fronthaul port capacity. The collaboration has already successfully demonstrated the integration of in-line acceleration, with the Qualcomm X100 5G RAN accelerator card and Mavenirs cloud-native virtualised Distributed Unit (vDU) software solution in a live massive MIMO use case, achieving a capacity of 3Gbps in a multi-user environment. The Qualcomm X100 5G RAN acceleration card is a PCIe-based solution that offloads compute-intensive tasks from the CPU to the card, designed to enhance the performance and capacity of vRAN deployments. The solution integrates through a standards-based FAPI interface, enabling more seamless interoperability and compatibility. BG Kumar, President, Access Networks, Platforms and Digital Enablement at Mavenir, said: Mavenir is excited to grow its collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies to accelerate the adoption of open and disaggregated vRAN architectures and innovate high-density solutions for 5G networks. Combining the strengths of Mavenir's Open vRAN solution with Qualcomm Technologies-powered in-line acceleration with Qualcomm X100 5G RAN accelerator card allows operators to benefit from a sustainable 5G RAN infrastructure and deploy 5G networks with unprecedented flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency. As a global technology leader in 5G, Qualcomm Technologies is pleased to collaborate with Mavenir to further the enablement and adoption of open and virtualised RAN, said Gerardo Giaretta, Vice President, Product Management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Harnessing inline acceleration with the Qualcomm X100 5G RAN Accelerator Card, together with Mavenirs cloud-native vDU solution, we are evolving performance, efficiency and scalability for modern networks. Notes to editors: About Mavenir Mavenir is building the future of networks today with cloud-native, AI-enabled solutions which are green by design, empowering operators to realize the benefits of 5G and achieve intelligent, automated, programmable networks. As the pioneer of Open RAN and a proven industry disruptor, Mavenirs award-winning solutions are delivering automation and monetization across mobile networks globally, accelerating software network transformation for 300+ Communications Service Providers in over 120 countries, which serve more than 50% of the worlds subscribers. For more information, please visit www.mavenir.com Meet Mavenir at Mobile World Congress 2024 (Barcelona, Feb 26 29 2024) To explore our latest innovations, MWC show announcements and learn more about how Mavenir is delivering the Future of Networks Today, visit our team in Hall 2 (Stand 2H60). Qualcomm is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221727374/en/ 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... The Niigata International Animation Festival will launch its second edition on March 15, featuring an expanded competition lineup, a legendary guest speaker, and loads of special screenings. This years NIAFF has invited writer and director Yoshiyuki Tomino, best known for creating the Gundam anime franchise, to be its guest of honor and will screen his 1988 classic Mobile Suit Gundam: Chars Counterattack. Tomino will attend the festival and host a keynote speech. Tomino began his animation career at Mushi Productions in 1964 as a production assistant. He rose through the ranks, working as a storyboarder and screenwriter for Astro Boy before he left the studio to be a freelance artist. Over the past six decades, Tomino has worked on numerous iconic franchise titles, including Triton of the Sea, Invincible Super Man Zambot 3, Mobile Suit Gundam, and Space Runaway Ideon. His most recent work was as a writer on Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Freedom, released in Japanese theaters earlier this year. NIAFF was launched last year as an annual event dedicated to elevating animated features from around the world in Japan. This years competition lineup is indicative of that goal and includes the following 12 titles: Bizarre Fish from the Abyssal Zone, Marcelo Marao (Brazil) Four Souls of Coyote, Aron Gauder(Hungary) Kensukes Kingdom, Neil Boyle, Kirk Hendry (U.K.) KURAYUKABA, Shigeyoshi Tsukahara (Japan) Maboroshi, Mari Okada (Japan) Mantra Warrior: The Legend of the Eight Moons, Veerapatra Jinanavin (Thailand) Mars Express, Jeremie Perin (France) On the Bridge, Sam Guillaume, Fred Guillaume (Switzerland / France) Sultanas Dream, Isabel Herguera (Spain) The Inventor, Jim Capobianco, Pierre-Luc Granjon (U.S.) The Other Shape, Diego Felipe Guzman (Columbia) When Adam Changes, Joel Vaudreuil (Canada) The 12 films were selected from 49 submissions. Thats a significant increase from last year, when 10 features were screened from 21 submissions. The jury that curated this years selection included Yoshihiko Yatabe (former Tokyo International Film Festival programming director), Ryota Fujitsu (anime critic), Akiko Sugawa (Yokohama National University professor / Japan Society for Animation Studies president), and Homami Yano (director, Honekami). The years festival competition jury will include Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (The Breadwinner), Michael Fukushima (producer, Affairs of the Art), and Yuichiro Saito (producer, Mirai). NIAFF program director Naoshi Sudo said of this years lineup: The entries were more diverse than last year, not only in terms of culture but also in terms of methods of production and expression. Some works did not fit into the conventional concept of animation, which led to the selection committee engaging in lively debates about the question of What is animation? The competition specializes in feature-length films, and the selection committee was committed to the festivals goals of excellence in images, excellence in storytelling, and achieving diversity. Although we were able to expand the competition selection to 12 from last years 10, there were many works that the selection committee was heartbroken that they could not include. These films have been carefully selected, and NIAFF is very proud to present them. We are confident that if you come to Niigata, you will be able to see a snapshot of the current state of animation production around the world. More details, including the full non-competition screening lineup, are available on the festivals website. Islamabad [Pakistan]: Over 23,000 Pakistani nationals have been jailed in foreign prisons including 15,587 convicts, Pakistan's Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights was informed on Tuesday, The Express Tribune reported. According to the report, Pakistan's foreign ministry presented data on Pakistani prisoners abroad during a meeting chaired by Waleel Iqbal. Scope of Imprisonment According to the data, 23,456 Pakistani citizens were imprisoned in foreign countries, including 15,587 convicts and 7,869 under-trial prisoners. Country-wise Breakdown The highest number of Pakistani prisoners was in Saudi Arabia, where 12,156 were languishing in different jails. This is followed by 5,292 prisoners in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) jails. The data further showed that currently 706 Pakistanis were held in Indian jails. Discussion on the Prisoner Transfer Agreement During the committee meeting, discussions centred around the Prisoner Transfer Agreement. According to The Express Tribune, officials from the foreign ministry and the interior ministry disclosed that Pakistan had a prisoner exchange agreement with 11 countries, including Azerbaijan, China, Iran, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, and the United Kingdom. Consular Protection Policy and Transparency Directive The committee issued directives to the foreign ministry, instructing them to formulate a uniform consular protection policy within 90 days. Simultaneously, the ministry was also directed to disclose the details of the Prisoner Transfer Agreement with various countries on its official website. (With ANI inputs) Pakistans cement industry exports exhibit mixed trends 21 February 2024 Pakistans cement industry has registered significant growth in the first seven months of FY23-24 (July 2023-January 2024) due to the continued good exchange rate of the Pakistani rupee against foreign currency and other factors. AKD Research believes that the recent decline in international coal prices, dropping to US$92/t following reduced winter demand from Europe, presents a favourable development for the cement industry for local and exports. Pakistans cement and clinker exports increased by 49.7 per cent in the 7MFY23-24 to US$150.65m (3.896Mt), compared to US$100.63m (2.061Mt) in the 7MFY22-23, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) said. In Pakistani rupee terms, export revenue saw a significant growth of 89 per cent to PKR43.2bn during this export period, sustained by the local currencys competitive rates against the US dollar. In terms of volumes, exports increased by 89 per cent YoY in the same period. However, the export trend was reversed in January 2024 alone. The data on exports and imports released by PBS revealed that cement and clinker exports registered a fall of 32.8 per cent MoM in terms of value in January 2024 to US$14.72m (390,553t) from US$21.92m (572,568t) in December 2023. Volumes saw a contraction of 33.5 per cent on an MoM. The YoY cement export data depicts a mixed picture, increasing by two per cent in value but volume falling by 12.1 per cent compared to data from January 2023 (US$15.02m at 348,424t). Published under Morning Pointe Senior Living will break ground on the new The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimers Center of Excellence at East Hamilton on Friday, March 22 at 11:30 a.m.The event will take place at the property at 1775 Generations Way in Ooltewah, next door to the current Morning Pointe of East Hamilton Assisted Living and Memory Care. The Lantern will be Phase II of the senior living campus, offering a continuum of care services along with Morning Pointe of East Hamilton, which will transition to an assisted living-only community.The Lantern is anticipated to open in early 2025.At the groundbreaking, the East Hamilton High School Choir will provide the opening song and the schools JROTC will lead out in a flag ceremony and pledge of allegiance.Morning Pointe Senior Living Co-Founders Greg A.Vital (president of the company) and Franklin Farrow (CEO), will share their vision for the expanding senior living campus. Other speakers at the event will include Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp, Hamilton County Commissioner Chair for District 10 Jeff Everson, Hamilton County Trustee Bill Hullander, Tennessee State Representative for District 30 Esther Helton, and Manager of Programs and Education for the Alzheimers Association Amy French.The Lantern at Morning Pointe of East Hamilton will be the 41st Morning Pointe Senior Living community and the 25th in Tennessee. Other Hamilton County campuses are located in Chattanooga, Collegedale and Hixson. The single-level memory care community will be an estimated 45,000 square feet and feature 60 apartments. These will encompass two levels of care Lamplight for early stages of Alzheimers and other dementias, and Lantern for the more advanced stages.The campus is located close to the new Publix super market at the Shops at Enclave, as well as East Hamilton High School and Westview Elementary School.Programming at the new building will adhere to Morning Pointes strong focus on clinical care, with physical and occupational therapies, life enrichment and wellness offerings, and intergenerational activities. It will also feature Morning Pointes Farm to Table program with local, farm-fresh and seasonal ingredients.East Tennessee, and especially Hamilton County, is a robust and growing part of the U.S., said Mr. Vital. Its a wonderful place to live, and not only has the general population grown in the last few years, but the senior population has grown right along with it. We are excited to be adding a new Alzheimers Center of Excellence, and expanding our existing assisted living services here where the need is growing and close to our Morning Pointe headquarters.The new Lantern at Morning Pointe of East Hamilton will create approximately 60 permanent healthcare positions and is estimated to have a positive economic impact of more than $25 million annually, considering payroll, property taxes and local purchase of goods and services, officials said. Transport Enterprise Leasing has donated $6,000 in support of Prison Prevention Ministries programs that are helping turn around the lives of inmates and youth, said Jeff Berger, chief information officer of TEL. The company gave an initial $3,000 contribution, followed by another $3,000 gift.Weve seen the positive impact that Prison Prevention Ministries is having on prisoners and their families, as well as at-risk youth and our community, Mr. Berger said. Their faith-based programs are changing hearts and minds and are providing practical support to help people become productive citizens, he added. The Christmas Angel program they have for the children of incarcerated parents is one of the most impactful events I have been involved in.Officials said, "Many inmates in American prisons and jails become repeat offenders.In Tennessee, an estimated 29.6 percent of individuals released from a state prison in 2019 were re-arrested, re-convicted or returned to prison within three years, according to the Tennessee Department of Correction. Recidivism rates appear to be even higher for jail inmates, based on department reports."The mission of Prison Prevention Ministries is simple, yet profound: to prevent inmates from returning to prison and youth from going to prison by encouraging them to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ."Programs for prisoners include weekly Bible-based life skill seminars at the Hamilton County Jail, Bradley County Jail, Hamilton County Juvenile Detention Center, The Next Door Womens State Pre-Release Facility, the Salvation Army Men & Women Federal Pre-Release Facility, Silverdale CCA and Walker State Prison. Programs for at-risk youth include InZone, located in Hixson, which provides boys ages 10-14 with Christian guidance, academic tutoring and fellowship through dinners and other activities. Prison Prevention Ministries also holds an annual Christmas Angel party for children with incarcerated parents.If it werent for folks like Transport Enterprise Leasing, we would not be able to do the ministries we do, said Joe Smith, executive director of the charity. We are so appreciative for the support of the good folks at Transport Enterprise Leasing.To donate or volunteer with Prison Prevention Ministries, visit prisonprevention.org. During its quarterly meeting last Friday, the State Board of Education released outcomes for the 2023 charter school authorizer evaluations.Officials said, "These bi-annual evaluations are designed to ensure the effective operation of all authorizers and assess authorizer quality."The State Board was charged with conducting periodic charter school authorizer evaluations by the Tennessee General Assembly during the 2019 legislative session. Under the statutory requirement, the State Board developed an evaluation system based on Policy 6.111 - Quality Charter Authorizing Standards and Tennessee became the fourth state to adopt an authorizer evaluation process, and was the fourth state to adopt an authorizer evaluation process."Quality charter school authorization is essential for ensuring charters schools, and their authorizers, are operating according to state standards and with transparency," said Dr.Sara Morrison, executive director of the State Board of Education. The State Board believes these evaluations give authorizers valuable feedback that can increase the quality of oversight and support for their charter schools.Officials said, "Each charter school authorizer evaluation begins with the formation of an evaluation team and an examination of the authorizers performance based on state standards. After the evaluation, authorizers receive a final report detailing specific feedback, scores on the rubrics standards, an overall rating and follow-up actions. Authorizers can earn an overall rating on a scale from zero to four, with score ranges indicating unsatisfactory/incomplete, approaching satisfactory, satisfactory, commendable and exemplary designations."This is our second cycle of evaluations, and results show significant progress being made by our charter school authorizers. We are proud to see them continue to raise the bar to better serve Tennessees students," said Ali Reid, director of engagement and accountability for the State Board.Tennessees charter authorizer evaluation cycle is conducted over a two-year period. The 2023 evaluations assessed the authorizing practices of Hamilton County Schools, Knox County Schools and Memphis-Shelby County Schools.2023 Evaluation Outcomes: Hamilton County Schools Satisfactory with a score of 2.3 out of 4 Knox County Schools Commendable with a score of 3.1 out of 4 Memphis-Shelby County Schools Exemplary with a score of 3.5 out of 4Additional information, including the full charter authorizer evaluation reports, can be found on the State Board of Educations website Following a national search, Baylor School has named Rev. Matthew Farr 03 the schools new chaplain. What excites me most about this opportunity to return to my alma mater is that as Baylor's chaplain, I am entrusted with the care and keeping of the spiritual well-being of all who live, learn, and work together in this special place, said Mr. Farr. It is the honor of a lifetime to be invited to return as Baylor's next chaplain. Since 2018, Mr. Farr has served as the school chaplain for The Episcopal School of Knoxville, a coeducational school for children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. In addition to his role as Chaplain, Farr plans and teaches weekly religion classes for all grade levels at ESK. He was the Curate for the Southeastern Tennessee Episcopal Ministry in Franklin County, Tn. from 2017-18 and has served as a chaplain in the U.S. Naval Reserves since 2022. I am excited for the student body and the entire Baylor community to have not only a chaplain of Matts caliber but also someone who is returning to his alma mater, said Head of School Chris Angel 89 in the announcement. Following graduation from Baylor, Mr. Farr earned a B.A. from Sewanee, The University of the South in 2007. In 2010 he joined Sewanees development office and served in various roles before being named the associate director of Annual Giving in 2014. He went on to earn a Master of Divinity from Sewanees School of Theology in 2017 and recently completed the requirements for a Certificate of Graduate Study from Sewanee. Mr. Farr replaces Rev. Alex Gallimore, who recently accepted the senior pastor position at Heritage Baptist Church in Cartersville, Ga. Peggy Ann McCullough, a resident of Lookout Mountain, Ga., passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024. She was 67 years old. A Graveside Service to honor Peggy's life will be held on Thursday, Feb. 22, at Payne's Chapel Cemetery on Lookout Mountain at 3 p.m. Friends and loved ones are welcome to pay their respects at the funeral home on Thursday from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Peggy's commitment to her family was the cornerstone of her life. As a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, she found immense joy in these roles. Beyond her family circle, Peggy touched many lives through her work as a caregiver. Her passion for painting led her to create beautiful works of art and culinary delights that brought happiness to those around her. Born on August 21, 1956, Peggy was the cherished daughter of the late Jesse "Jess" and Virginia Keith Reeves. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in her children, Kenneth "Kenny" McCullough Jr. and Hallie McCullough; sister Ima Yates; adored grandchildren Amberly Garrett, Whitney Stephens, Jeff West, Sydnie Hester, and Hannah McCullough; along with extended family and numerous friends. Peggy now joins her beloved husband Kenneth Frank McCullough Sr. in eternal peace. For those who wish to offer condolences or view Peggy's memorial tribute, please visit www.MooreFHS.com. The arrangements for Peggy have been entrusted to the compassionate care of Moore Funeral Home in Trenton, Ga. Cleveland State Community College will host the 20th annual Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss Celebration on Saturday, March 2. The event will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. in Cleveland States Library and is sponsored by the Early Childhood Education program and the CSCC Library.This years event will honor the book Theres a Wocket in My Pocket. Originally published in 1974, the story features a little boy talking about the strange creatures that live in his house. Children attending will be able to participate in both active and artistic activities related to the feature story as well as Dr.Seusss most popular books. Special guests will include Dr. Seusss most well-known characters, the Cat in the Hat, Thing One and Thing Two from the Cat in the Hat and the Grinch from The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss is free to children of all ages; however, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Each child will receive a goody bag, a hardback Dr. Seuss book and may participate in literacy-related activities assisted by Cleveland State students. Other activities will include face painting, hat making, egg decorating, chalk art, fishing, digging for worms and music and movement. Refreshments and door prizes will also be part of the celebration.The event is sponsored by the United Way of the Ocoee Region, Wacker Polysilicon and the Kiwanis Club of Cleveland. Members of the Kiwanis Club will give a free Dr. Seuss book to every child that attends. There will be hardback books for preschoolers, board books for infants and toddlers, and books in Spanish.A representative from Dolly Partons Imagination Library will be on hand. The Imagination Library is a nonprofit organization that promotes early childhood literacy by giving free age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five around the country.The celebration is organized by students in the ECED 2380 Language and Literacy and ECED 2365 Final Practicum classes. The Early Childhood Education Program at Cleveland State began in 1999 out of an initiative from the Tennessee Board of Regents requiring that all community colleges in the state have an early childhood program. The program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Cleveland State has transfer agreements with many area colleges that allow students to transfer and complete their degree to teach pre-K through third grade. The Early Childhood Education program provides a foundation and degrees for future teachers interested in teaching birth through grade 12.We look forward to another great event with our community families in celebrating literacy and education with our children through a fun and exciting event at the Cleveland State library, said Dr. Ryan Thompson, dean of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences.Those interested in more information about the Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss event or the Education Career Community should contact Margaret Horten at 423-473-2371 or mhorten@clevelandstatecc.edu. photo by Joel Sartore Tennessee Aquarium Animal Care Facility Lead Adam Johnson and Senior Aquarist Kyle McPheeters, from left, help photograph a Port Jackson Shark during a past visit to the Aquarium by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore, right. photo by Doug Strickland photo by Joel Sartore photo by Joel Sartore photo by Joel Sartore Previous Next When it comes to their names, some animals could use a better publicist because, to the unfamiliar ear,theres little about River Chub or Least Rasbora that spurs the imagination or sparks a desire to protect them. Thats where award-winning National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore comes in. The chub and rasbora both freshwater fish species are two of the dozens of animals Sartore has visited the Tennessee Aquarium to photograph as part of the Photo Ark, his attempt to document all species in human care at zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries around the world. Through this 17-year (and counting) effort, Sartore has archived stunning portraiture of more than 15,000 species across more than 50,000 images. He estimates completing the archive could take another seven to eight years. More than merely ticking each and every box on an exhaustively ambitious list, Sartore hopes these images inspire wonder and a sense of urgency to protect all life on Earth. Presented on plain black or white backgrounds, Photo Ark viewers are given no choice but to consider each animals unique qualities in isolation and, hopefully, feel moved to safeguard them. The Photo Ark is really my last-ditch, desperate effort to get people to care about nature, Sartore explains in the introduction to a documentary about the project. Beginning March 1 and continuing through the end of the year, the Aquarium will exhibit two dozen images from the Photo Ark throughout its campus. As they explore the Ocean Journey and River Journey buildings or take in a screening at the IMAX 3D Theater, guests will see Sartores incredible photographs on enormous banners, graphics and video projections. Some of the Photo Ark images on display, including the southern flying squirrel and four-eyed turtle, were created during Sartores eight previous visits to the Aquarium. Others, such as the red-eyed tree frog or African elephant, highlight interesting and at-risk species that arent part of the Aquariums living collection. Regardless of the setting in which the images were made, the Photo Ark aims to level the playing field and inspire an equal sense of wonder and importance for all animals whether big or small, world-beloved or largely unknown. The black and white backgrounds are a great equalizer, Sartore said. It shows the beauty, the grace and power in a mouse. Hes no less important than a Polar Bear. That tiger is no more important than a tiger beetle. We must, must, must get people to care [about these species]. Its absolutely critical. Presented at the grand scale at which guests will encounter them during their Aquarium visit, the Photo Ark images bring details to the fore that would be easy to miss in motion. Up close and frozen in time, guests can appreciate the rough textured skin of a Short-tail Nurse Shark or the slick, glossy sheen on a Spotted Salamander. Weaving Photo Arks images and messaging into the guest experience dovetails naturally with the Aquariums call in 2024 for visitors to get closer, look deeper and enjoy the wows along the way. Taking a more deliberate pace while exploring brings minuscule, easily overlooked details into focus, such as the trailing bubbles that appear in the wake of a diving penguin, the flecked gold eyes of an American alligator or the gem-like coloration of native darters and shiners. The National Geographic Joel Sartore Photo Ark exhibition is presented locally by the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation with additional support from First Horizon, and Yamaha Rightwaters. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is proud to support this special exhibition, says Amy Katcher, TDEC-Materials Management Program Manager. Sartores images help people experience nature with fresh eyes, inspiring them to seek ways to protect water and wildlife. Yamaha Rightwaters applauds the Tennessee Aquariums commitment to environmental education, particularly as it relates to freshwater, says Joshua Grier, Sustainability Program Manager for Yamaha Marine. Viewing Sartores wildlife images while immersed in the Aquarium experience reinforces the idea that protecting water and wildlife begins on land. First Horizon has been proudly supporting the Aquariums mission for more than 30 years, says Jay Dale, First Horizon Market President, Southeast Tennessee. This exciting new exhibition is thrilling to see, but it will also cause Aquarium guests to pause and think about the fragility of nature and our obligation to protect it for future generations. To launch the Photo Ark exhibition at the Aquarium, Sartore and his son and Photo Ark Curator Cole will visit Chattanooga on Thursday, Feb. 29. There, they will discuss the origins of the archive and the harrowing and funny backstories to creating its images. Sartores presentation will take place 6-6:30 p.m. in the River Journey auditorium, after which audience members can tour the Aquarium and see how Photo Ark imagery is integrated into the guest experience. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served before and after the presentation. Tickets are $45 for Members and $50 for non-Members. To register in advance for the evening event with Joel Sartore, visit community.tnaqua.org/events/ 2024-events/joel-sartore- photo-exhibit- More details about the Photo Ark are available at joelsartore.com/photo-ark/ The Duke of Sussex may want his two children with Meghan Markle to reconnect with their royal roots and establish a relationship with their grandfather. Prince Harry has several trips to the United Kingdom scheduled for 2024. Could a reunion between King Charles and his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, be on the horizon? A PR person who specializes in royal commentary believes so. Prince Harry and King Charles may reconnect along with the monarchs grandchildren The Mirror reported that a PR guru and royal commentator Lynn Carratt from Press Box PR claims that Prince Harry will likely decide he wants to visit the UK with his children this year. These are her reasons. Since King Charles cancer diagnosis and Harrys quick dash across the pond, I think it has hit home with Harry just how important family is to him. I suspect hell want to bring his children, Lilibet and Archie, to the UK to visit their grandad, Carratt believes. King Charles only met Lilibet once at the Platinum Jubilee in 2022, and Archie left the UK when he was a baby, so his meetings with the King have been sparse. The children dont have a relationship with their maternal grandfather, so I suspect Harry would like to grow their relationship with King Charles, she concludes. Prince Harry will want the children to connect to their royal heritage in some way Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie in a screenshot from Netflixs Harry and Meghan docuseries | Netflix Now that Prince Harry and King Charles have reconnected after Harry flew to England after learning of his fathers cancer diagnosis, father and son can reestablish their relationship. Lynn Carratt believes that as his children grow older, Harry will want Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to somehow connect to their royal background. Now the kids are a little bit older; I am certain Archie and Lilibet will be making more frequent visits to the UK, Carratt explained. There is also hope that their fathers illness will bring Harry and William closer together in the future and allow Archie and Lilibet to become closer to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. But this will take time. In an interview with Good Morning America during a visit to Canada to promote the 2025 Invictus Games, Prince Harry gave royal followers a rare update on his children with Meghan Markle, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet. The kids are doing great, Harry revealed. The kids are growing up like all kids do, very fast. He continued, Theyve both got an incredible sense of humor and make us laugh and keep us grounded every single day, like most kids do. Im just grateful to be a dad. Prince Harry last saw King Charles on Feb. 7. He traveled to the United Kingdom from California to speak with his father after his cancer diagnosis. General Motors (GM) recently finalized a significant battery material supply contract worth $19 billion with South Korea's LG Chem, marking a major milestone in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Under the agreement, LG Chem will supply cathode active materials until 2035, sufficient to power up to five million cars produced by GM. This collaboration exemplifies the substantial commercial value that high-value innovators in electrode active materials have been achieving in recent times, as highlighted by Technology Foresights, a proprietary framework developed by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. The significance of cathode active materials, and more broadly, electrode active materials, cannot be overstated in the realm of high-performance EV batteries. Nickel, magnesium, and other metals constitute the active materials, playing a pivotal role in the electrochemical reactions throughout the charging and discharging processes. The increasing adoption of EVs over the past decade has fuelled a heightened need for electrode materials that exhibit superior efficiency and extended lifespan. Sourabh Nyalkalkar, Practice Head of Innovation Products at GlobalData, comments: Within the landscape of EV technologies, there has been a steady growth in innovation pertaining to electrode active materials. Notably, the landscape of innovation in this domain is primarily shaped by prominent corporations in Southeast Asia, dominated by companies with heavy R&D investments in advanced materials and specialty chemicals manufacturing. An interesting observation from the innovation leadership map on the Technology Foresights platform is the strategic efforts made by a few automotive giants, including Toyota, Hyundai, and BYD. These companies are internally enhancing their capabilities for the development of electrode materials and various other components crucial to battery technology. LG Chem's leadership in over thirty innovations related to EV and battery technology solidifies its position as a key collaborator for EV manufacturers. However, the Technology Foresights platform highlights numerous other significant players who are also establishing partnerships with automotive companies to supply electrode active materials for their EV product lines. For example, Umicore formed a joint venture with PowerCo, a unit of Volkswagen, in October 2023 to supply sustainable cathode electrode materials in Europe. Toshiba, another major player in this field, secured an agreement with EVage to provide electrode active materials for lithium-ion batteries, powering up to 10,000 EV vans. Also, Sony, having previously sold its battery technology assets to Murata Manufacturing, is now collaborating with Honda Motors to develop EV charging infrastructure. artificial intelligence and automated laboratory infrastructure are massively accelerating the development of new chemical catalysts. With these tools, researchers at ETH Zurich are developing catalysts for efficiently and cost-effectively synthesising the energy source Methanol from CO 2 . Catalysts are chemistrys hard-working little helpers. They accelerate reactions and reduce the energy required for a reaction to take place. The more specific and effective a catalyst is, the more effectively any undesirable side reactions are suppressed. In nature, enzymes have the job of specifically boosting the required metabolic processes from among the almost infinite reaction possibilities of the chemical soup within cells. In chemical plants, metal catalysts are usually employed to increase product yield. The researchers working on the Swiss Cat+ technology platform at ETH Zurich, led by Paco Laveille, have now developed a fully digitalised and automated method that enables them to find new and better metal catalysts much faster than before. Their process consists of a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) for calculating promising catalyst compositions and an automated synthesis and test laboratory. With this infrastructure, it took the team less than six weeks to successfully develop around 150 catalysts compositions for producing methanol from CO 2 . The best catalysts are cost-effective and exhibit high conversion rates with a low proportion of byproducts. This new method saves a huge amount of time, Laveille says. With a conventional approach, our experiments would have taken years. Methanol is regarded as one of the key elements for a sustainable hydrocarbon economy. A close chemical relative of ethanol (i.e. drinking alcohol), the substance can be used both as a fuel and as a raw material for the production of organic compounds such as medicines, plastics or paints. Because it is a liquid, methanol is much easier to transport and store than gaseous hydrogen and methane, two other sources of energy. Whats more, using methanol in the existing supply infrastructure and engines of todays petrol technology requires only minor modifications. Narrowing down the possibilities through clever preselection In the search for optimum catalysts for methanol production, theres one big problem: theoretically, atoms can be combined in an almost infinite number of ways to form a catalyst. The chemical space in which were searching for catalysts comprises around 1020 possibilities thats one hundred billion billion. So were literally looking for a needle in the chemical haystack, explains Christophe Coperet, a professor at the Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry at ETH Zurich and co-initiator of the Swiss Cat+ project. To narrow down the huge range of possibilities, the researchers made a preselection based on experience and economic requirements. A catalyst that can be used on a large scale needs to be not only effective but also inexpensive. For that reason, the main active ingredients for the catalyst were limited to three comparatively cheap metals: iron, copper and cobalt. In addition to these main metals, the researchers considered three elements that are traditionally added to catalysts in small quantities for the purposes of doping, as well as potassium, which is also contained in many catalysts. As to carrier materials, the researchers limited themselves to four typical metal oxides. Multiplied by the different mixing ratios, this still resulted in 20 million possible combinations. Taking iterative steps with AI-supported statistics At this point, the researchers brought an AI algorithm into play that uses what is known as Bayesian optimisation to find the best possible solutions. This special form of statistics is particularly suitable when only a small amount of data is available. Unlike in classical statistics, the probability doesnt derive from the relative frequency as calculated from numerous experiments. Instead, the calculation takes into account the probability that can be expected based on the current state of knowledge. In the initial round, the algorithm randomly selected 24 catalyst compositions that met the specifications drawn up for the purposes of limiting the complexity. These catalysts were produced directly using the Swiss Cat+ automated laboratory infrastructure and then tested. Delivering lots of highly reliable results quickly The results of this initial selection served the researchers as the starting point for an AI prediction; the catalyst compositions thus predicted were in turn automatically synthesised and tested. For this first demonstration test, the scientists had their integrated system complete a total of six such rounds. The fact that the results improved between rounds not in a linear fashion, but rather by leaps and bounds, was entirely intentional: not only does the algorithm optimise the results of earlier rounds, it also includes an exploratory component that feeds completely new compositions into each round and learns about the chemical space. This is how the researchers prevented the calculations from getting stuck in an optimisation dead end amongst all the possibilities. Around 35,000 years ago, Neanderthals living in Central Europe suffered from tuberculosis. The new finding has left scientists wondering whether the disease played a part in the extinction of the species. It was also the first time tuberculosis had ever been identified in Neanderthals. In December 2023, researchers analyzed the prehistoric bones of two Neanderthals, testing them for the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, which is called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The skeletons were found in a cave in Hungary in 1932. Subalyuk Cave is located in the Bukk Mountains of northern Hungary. Over the centuries, it was used as a place of shelter by many humans and animals. It is considered to be a significant archaeological site from the Middle to Late Paleolithic Era. The skeletons were excavated near the caves entrance. They belonged to a female adult and a child who was three to four years old at the time of death. Carbon dating showed that the adult had died around 37,000 to 38,000 years ago, while the child died around 33,000 to 34,000 years ago. Due to the mix of Neanderthal and human features on their bones, researchers concluded that they were among the last Neanderthals to exist in Central Europe. Neanderthals also began going extinct around the time of their deaths. In addition, evidence of skeletal infection was discovered in both Neanderthals. According to a team of researchers led by Gyorgy Palfi at the University of Szeged in Hungary, bony lesions were found along the adults spine and on the interior of the childs skull. These skeletal changes are known as lytic lesions. They are areas where bone has been destroyed, leaving holes in the bones. Lytic lesions can be the result of a number of diseases, such as cancer. However, their positioning and patterning within the bones of the Subalyuk Neanderthals point to a diagnosis of tuberculosis. A second research team led by Oona Lee from the University of Birmingham in the U.K. extracted bone samples from the two skeletons and examined them for the presence of M. tuberculosis. They both tested positive. The researchers also utilized two other techniques to reach their conclusion. One of them was called spoligotyping, a method that detects gene sequences of tuberculosis. The other was lipid biomarker analysis, which is used to determine the source of organic matter in a sample. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. This piece was adapted from Russell Moores newsletter. Subscribe here. Russian president Vladimir Putin murdered another Christian this week. It was just another day in Putins supposed project of protecting the Christian West from godlessness. After all, they tell me, one cant create a Christian nationalist empire without killing some people. Before the world forgets the corpse of Alexei Navalny in the subzero environs of an Arctic penal colony, we ought to look at himespecially those of us who follow Jesus Christto see what moral courage actually is. Navalny was perhaps the most-recognized anti-Putin dissident in the world, and he is now one of many Putin enemies to end up suddenly dead. He survived poisoning in 2020, recuperated in Europe, and ultimately went back to his homeland despite knowing what he would face. Speaking of his dissent and his willingness to bear its consequences, Navalny repeatedly referenced his profession of Christian faith. My Christianity Today colleague Emily Belz discovered a 2021 trial transcript at Meduza, in which Navalny explains, in strikingly biblical terms, what it means to suffer for ones beliefs. The fact is that I am a Christian, which usually sets me up as an example for constant ridicule in the Anti-Corruption Foundation, because mostly our people are atheists, and I was once quite a militant atheist myself, Navalny said (as rendered by Google Translate). But now I am a believer, and that helps me a lot in my activities because everything becomes much, much easier. There are fewer dilemmas in my life, because there is a book in which, in general, it is more or less clearly written what action to take in every situation, he explained. Its not always easy to follow this book, of course, but I am actually trying. Specifically, Navalny said, he was motivated by the words of Jesus: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied (Matt. 5:6, NASB). Ive always thought that this particular commandment is more or less an instruction to activity, Navalny said. And so, while certainly not really enjoying the place where I am, I have no regrets about coming back or about what Im doing. Its fine, because I did the right thing. On the contrary, I feel a real kind of satisfaction, he said. Because at some difficult moment I did as required by the instructions and did not betray the commandment. Article continues below These words may seem a bit too easy. After all, an unbeliever might respond, most of the people in the pro-democracy, anti-tyranny movement of which Navalny was a part did not, in fact, believe the instructions of Scripture. And Putin himself is backed by key leaders of the Russian Orthodox Church, where some are as willing as any court prophets ever were to baptize his murder in the language of Christian virtue and Christian civilization. (Though there are examples of faithful dissidence too.) But that response would miss Navalnys point. He was not saying that Christians are courageous while unbelievers are not. There is ample evidence to the contraryin Russia and other places tooto put such notions to flight. Navalny recognized, though, that the allure of moral cowardice when standing in courage means standing alone. A conscience can always reassure itself that being quiet right now is the right thing. Navalny recognized the terror in the thought of being left outside a field of belongingbeing branded as a traitor by fellow countrymen and a heretic by fellow churchmen. To resist the pull of that mob requires a different motive than a better-than-even chance of political success. Navalny recognized that one must, as the evangelical missionary Jim Elliot once put it, embrace strangerhood. For a modern person this whole commandmentblessed, thirsty, hungry for righteousness, for they shall be satisfiedit sounds, of course, very pompous, Navalny said. Sounds a little strange, to be honest. Well, people who say such things are supposed, frankly speaking, to look crazy, he recognized. Crazy, strange people, sitting there with disheveled hair in their cell and trying to cheer themselves up with something, although they are lonely, they are loners, because no one needs them. And this is the most important thing that our government and the entire system are trying to tell such people: You are alone, he continued. You are a loner. First, it is important to intimidate, and then, prove that you are alone. In this, Navalny not only identified his own motives for conscientious strangenesshe also contradicted the very nature of the Putinist conception of Christianity. To be Christian, in such a regime, is to be a Russian (or whatever the local blood-and-soil equivalent is). To be Christian is to be a regular personunwilling to step out of line, to expose ones conscience to any thought that might bring hardship. Article continues below After Navalnys killing, The Free Press published letters between Navalny and the famed former Soviet dissident Natan Sharansky, who served time in the same Artic penal colony during some of the most dangerous years of the Communist regime. Biblical passages are quoted throughout, including Navalny joking about where else to spend Holy Week than in the prison complex the older man called his alma mater. This was the root, I believe, of Navalnys moral courage, his willingness to stand alone, his willingness to die. Its not just that he knew Bible verses; the pro-Putin patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church no doubt knows more. Its the way he seemed to know Scripture. He seemed to recognize not just the bare instructions from Jesus about hungering and thirsting for righteousness, about being blessed in persecution, but also the story behind and around them. He knew these words seem strange. He knew they sound crazy. In the introduction to his collection of poems on joy, the poet Christian Wiman notes that early audiences of the New Testament message, offended by the strangeness of what they heard, might very well have made their way home past rows of crucified corpses designed specially to eradicate all cause for any insurrectionist hope or joy. The strangeness was the point. No one can actually hear what Jesus is saying when he calls the forgotten, the persecuted, the poor, and the reviled blessed unless we feel why his own family thought he was insane (Mark 3:21). This is probably why Navalny recognized so clearly the Putin regimes methods of making dissenters feel strange and crazy and alone: Navalny had seen it before, in a Roman Empire that did the same thing with crosses. Those of moral courage of all faiths and no faith have all kinds of motivations for their convictions. Butwhatever the motivationone cannot maintain moral courage if one is unwilling to be sent away from whatever one calls my home, from whomever one calls my people. Thats the joyful irony: One never stands alone when one is part of a bigger story, when one belongs to a bigger body. Article continues below The cloud of witnesses includes Elijah and Jeremiah, Peter and Paul, Maximus and Bonhoeffer, and countless others who died seemingly abandoned, who seemed crazy in their day (Heb. 12:1). Its people like thisnot from the German Christian Reich bishops or the Putin-cheering Orthodox patriarchatefrom whom the next generation of our faith is born. The very point of hungering and thirsting is that one is prompted to see that somethings missingthat the satisfactions on offer arent enough. The very appetite for such things is a sign that what one is hungering for, thirsting for, is really out there. A person can see that, sometimes, even from a gulag. Thats strange. Thats crazy. But thats what at least one Person I know would call blessed. Russell Moore is the editor in chief at Christianity Today and leads its Public Theology Project. [ This article is also available in Portugues, Francais, , and . ] In the 1940s, following a missiological vision of Back to Jerusalem, a group of visionary Chinese Christians set out with a heart for evangelizing Muslims, aspiring to traverse Chinas northwestern provinces and neighboring countries. He Enzheng and her future husband Zhao Maijia (Mecca Zhao) were among this group of pioneers. Their goal was to bring the gospel to Xinjiang, the autonomous region in China where the Uyghurs are the dominant ethnic group. Their efforts planted seeds that continue to shape the spiritual heritage of the Chinese church, motivating Christians to carry on their mission. Born in rural Hebei province in October 1917, He grew up in the church in Tianjin and experienced spiritual rebirth at a revival meeting at age 15. At 17, she felt called to distant mission fields and pursued this vision at a Bible college. After she graduated in 1937, no opportunity for mission to unreached areas materialized, leading her to serve locally while seeking Gods direction. In time, He joined the mission of the Northwest Bible College in Fengxiang, Shaanxi, teaching the Bible while caring for female students. The school was established in 1940 by Dai Yongmian (the Chinese name of James Hudson Taylor II, grandson of Hudson Taylor), with a focus on evangelizing the Muslim regions of northwest China. The college played a key role in training preachers and evangelists who served in that area. On Easter 1943, Ma Ke, the vice president of the college, along with He and 13 others, received a vision to evangelize Xinjiang, a large region in the northwest. They formed the Chinese Back to Jerusalem Evangelistic Band, a groundbreaking, interdenominational Chinese organization free from foreign missionary leadership and financial dependence. Its formation was a pivotal moment in Chinese church history, and five out of seven of its members were women. In 1947, He, Zhao, and other members of the Evangelistic Band embarked on a mission to Shule, Xinjiangs westernmost region, from Xining, the capital of Qinghai province. Whereas other northwestern provinces including Shaanxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, and Gansu had established churches, Xinjiang was still unreached. The journey from Xining to Shule was around 3,000 kilometers (about 1,800 miles). Despite the arduous journey and their awareness of potential dangers, the band moved forward in faith, supporting churches along the way and sometimes stopping to assist local ministries. They persevered through challenges, including bandit attacks, sustained by their faith and Gods provision. Article continues below However, their journey ended abruptly when troops sent by Qinghai provinces Muslim warlord governor Ma Bufang, who opposed Christian missions in the northwest, stopped them. All but Zhao, who stayed to handle the camels and goods, were turned back to Xining. Despite this setback, He remained undeterred. She returned to Lanzhou, Gansu, continuing her service and learning Arabic to prepare for future missions. In spring 1948, Zhao ventured from Gansu to the city of Hami, becoming the first Han Chinese missionary in the southern part of Xinjiang. That same year, He Enzheng also made her way to Xinjiang, finally reaching Urumqi and serving in its only church. In 1953, after the Communist Party took over the power to rule China, He and Zhao decided to marry in southern Xinjiang. When He was preparing to go to Shule to join Zhao, some tried to dissuade her, saying, The situation is tense now, and many have been imprisoned. Zhao might face forced labor, if not death. Its enough for him to suffer; why should you also take the burden? She replied, The door to southern Xinjiang has just opened, and a church has been established. If Zhao dies, what will happen to the church? He has committed himself there; if he is not afraid to die, how can I be afraid? If he is sent to forced labor, I can bring him food; if he dies, I can continue his work. After marrying in Shule, the couple served in Shache and Kashgar, where they encountered resistance to their evangelistic work from Muslim leaders. Moreover, the local Communist government suspected them of being counterrevolutionaries or spies for Western countries and continuously pressured them to confess. Amid these harsh conditions, He explained, Wherever we went, people were kind to us, but we couldnt evangelize openly, which was hard for us. The situation grew more precarious. The churches they had established were forced to close, and there was no longer a place for them to serve, so they had to take other jobs. Zhao took an accounting position, while his wife found work in a garment factory and a kindergarten. Although they couldnt preach openly, they served the people with a heart for God wherever they were, earning respect from the locals. In 1966, on the eve of the Cultural Revolution, He, guided by divine revelation, left Xinjiang with her two sons. They returned to Shanxi and Beijing for two years, avoiding the severe persecution in Xinjiang. However, Zhao stayed in Shache. He was labeled a spy, traitor, and counterrevolutionary, enduring harsh criticism and struggle. After the Cultural Revolution ended in 1976, Zhao remained in the region and continued his accounting work until his retirement in 1987. Article continues below After the Cultural Revolution ended, He Enzheng returned to the Xinjiang region with her children and was finally reunited with her husband. Both served faithfully in their workplaces. In 1989, Zhao suffered a stroke, which severely limited his ability to walk and speak. However, until his death in 2007, he was always moved to tears whenever he heard the words Back to Jerusalem Evangelistic Band. He Enzheng continued to diligently share the gospel in southern Xinjiang until she passed away in 2014 at age 97. With regard to the ambitions of the Evangelistic Band, He said: Sixty years ago, we joyfully embarked on this path. We are still here now, not seeing much fruit but I firmly believe that he who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion. Zhao Maijia and I will die here. We never planned to return alive, but we see that others will follow. I pray that the Lord will continue to call more brothers and sisters with the same Spirit who called us, to complete this work together. Though Zhao and He did not witness the complete fulfillment of their original vision, their faith and sacrifices have inspired many Chinese Christians to devote their lives to mission. Today the mission of bringing the gospel back to Jerusalem through the Xinjiang and Muslim regions in middle Asia continues in various forms within both Chinese and Western churches. Editors note: The Chinese version of this article is reposted with permission from Remarkable Women in Church History, published by Overseas Campus Ministries. The author met and interviewed multiple past coworkers in the Back to Jerusalem Evangelistic Band as well as pastors Dai Shaozeng (James Hudson Taylor III) and Thomas Wang, who personally heard the testimonies told by He Enzheng herself. Edwin Su is founder and trustee board chairman of Overseas Campus Ministries (OCM) and an expert in Chinese church history. Ding Yijia s a student at Logos Theological Seminary in California and is engaged in full-time student ministry in Pennsylvania with her husband. Translated to English by Ariel Bi [ This article is also available in and . ] By now, two years after the initial conflict, many Americans have largely forgotten about Ukraine. As often happens after a global crisis, we eventually become too distracted, irritated, or entertained by other news and media. Of course, there have been other more recent international conflicts as well, which also deserve our attention and prayers. In early 2022, Ukraine began receiving widespread global attention during Russias invasion, but much of the initial aid has since diminished. Not only has general financial, material, and moral support been greatly reduced, but in some circles, Ukraine has become a political pawn for someespecially with the US presidential elections fast approaching. When the conflict in eastern Ukraine began a decade ago in 2014, the global community knew Russia was likely preparing for more aggressive actions. But nothing could have prepared me for the morning of February 24, 2022, when I was shaken to my core as images of explosions and armored vehicles began filling the news and internet. Im a pastor in Lynchburg, Virginia, but I was born in Ukraine and have many friends and relatives who still live there. As the initial shock wore off and I was able to communicate with my loved ones, something was awakened in me. By the second month of Russias invasion, when millions of people were struggling to leave Ukraine, I traveled there to encourage and serve those affected by the conflict. I have visited Ukraine four times over the past two yearsand have witnessed firsthand the ongoing devastation of war. In my most recent trips, it has been disheartening to meet with fellow brothers and sisters who have felt neglected or forgotten by the global church. Today, with our short attention spans and so many ongoing global crises, it is difficult to center our hearts on individual stories of devastation. Yet I believe it is vital for us as believers to consistently remember the suffering of our siblings in Christand to cultivate this remembrance as a habitual practice in our busy and distracted lives. Whenever I think about Ukraine, I cant get the words of Hebrews 13:3 out of my mind. The author implores followers of Jesus Christ to continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering (emphasis mine). As citizens of Gods kingdom, we are called to pay special attention to the needs of the most vulnerable among us (Prov. 31:89, 1 John 3:1718, James 1:27). We are connected within one body, the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:12), and our local churches are micro-expressions of a global church designed to function in unity. Just as we would never ignore a part of our own body if it were suffering, Christs bodythe churchfunctions in a similar way. As Paul says, If one part suffers, every part suffers with it (v. 26). Neglecting or forgetting a member that is suffering can cause harm to the whole body. Article continues below We are called to share in the burdens of others by allowing ourselves to press into their pain. Doing so reflects the character of Jesus, who entered time and space to join us in our mortal afflictions. Scripture assures us that our Savior is a man of suffering, and familiar with pain (Is. 53:3) who knew both sorrow and grief (Matt. 26:38, Heb. 5:7). And because of this, he knows how to help those who are suffering (Heb. 2:18). The more we share our heartfelt prayers, presence, and resources with the suffering, the more we behave like Jesus. More than that, continuing to remember the suffering of others prepares us for our own potential suffering. Nobody wants to suffer, but we are guaranteed to go through it at one point in our livesfor Scripture promises that in this world you will have trouble (John 16:33). No person, community, or nation is immune from conflict and tragedy. Fellow Christians in places like Ukraine can teach us about resilience and courageand the power of the gospel amid calamity and heartbreak. We need them as much as they need us! Lastly, and equally importantly, we can use our voices and share our resources. We tend to be great ambassadors for the things we love, and we instinctively want to share them with others. I often cant wait to tell people about a new restaurant or movie I enjoyed. If we really love our suffering brothers and sisters, why wouldnt we tell others about their plight? This includes amplifying the voices and stories of those who are in need as well as gathering and sharing our resourcesincluding partnering with organizations on the ground to provide life-sustaining necessities like food, water, and medical supplies. God can use the different resources we have in our lives, as well as our spheres of influence, to meet specific felt needs. For instance, I started The Renewal Initiative to connect people and resources with vulnerable individuals worldwide, and this spring we are partnering with a group of mental health professionals to provide encouragement and support for relief workers in Ukraine. Article continues below One of the ways we fulfill the law of Christ is by carrying the burdens of others (Gal. 6:2), but we cant share this burden alonenor were we meant to. No one individual could meet all the needs of those who were suffering. No one organization has all the resources that are necessary to care for those who are in need. But as individuals and organizations come together, the burden gets lighter, and many needs can be met. To be sustainable, we need others to help us bear the burden of continuing to remember those who are suffering. But perhaps our most powerful weapon is to carry this burden before the Lord in prayer. Never underestimate the power of prayer or how the Holy Spirit can use our specific prayers to bless and encourage those in need. Not everyone is able to go and serve in Ukraine, but all of us can make room in our spiritual rhythms to pray for our brothers and sisters there and in other vulnerable communities around the world. I wish you could see the look on peoples faces in Ukraine when I tell them that my friends in the West are praying for them. Their response is usually, Thank you! Please tell everyone thank you for praying for us, and please dont stop. On one of my first trips back to Ukraine, I met a pastor who stayed to serve his church during Russias initial invasioneven after more than 60 percent of his congregation had left the area. Hundreds of refugees showed up from other parts of Ukraine requiring special care. And yet one of the things he said, which will always stick with me, is that he did not feel alone in his efforts because of the sustained prayers of saints around the world. On the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion, lets continue to remember our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. This act of obedience will both bless them and enrich our spiritual walks. For as we draw close to the suffering of others, our hearts can expand to better reflect Gods love for the world at large. Jesus is still at work amid the suffering of men, women, and children in Ukraine, and we can partner in that labor by continuing to remember them. Andrew Moroz is a Ukrainian American pastor and founder of The Renewal Initiative. You can also join the 10,700 readers who follow CT on Telegram: Editors note: CT offers select articles translated into Ukrainian and Russian You can also join the 10,700 readers who follow CT on Telegram: @ctmagazine (also available in Russian and Chinese ). [ This article is also available in Portugues. ] A years-long fight over leadership styles and decision-making processes at historic Park Street Church in Boston has boiled over into accusations of abusing spiritual authority and authoritarianism. There are petitions calling for a congregational review of the leaderships decision to fire a popular former minister, an open letter defending the current senior minister, public statements about escalating difficulties, and overt campaigning for rival slates of elder candidates ahead of the churchs annual meeting. People on both sides of the division say the congregation is besieged by spiritual warfare. The conflict will come to a head on Sunday with the regularly scheduled vote on elders and budgets, which has become a referendum on the current leadership, according to a letter that the chair of the board of elders sent to the congregation on February 11. At the 220-year-old church, once led by a founding father of modern evangelicalism, members are being asked to end the turmoil by voting to affirm the calling of its current senior minister, Mark Booker. We are a church in conflict, Booker said in a video message to the church. A yes vote on this would not mean that somehow I am a perfect leader or that I am doing everything just right. But it is a way to say, I believe this church will be better off, Park Street will be better off, with Mark in the role of senior minister in the future. CT spoke to 15 current and former church leaders and members about the turmoil at Park Street. Most spoke on condition of anonymity, saying they were afraid of being fired or otherwise punishedeven kicked out of the churchif their names appeared in print. They described a conflict that started out as a fairly common clash in the life of a congregation. A new leader wanted to make changes. He butted heads with existing staffpartly because of what he wanted to do, but more because of how he led and made decisions. The friction might have smoothed out with time. Instead, it grew worse. The senior minister made more decisions with less input, his critics say, and strong-armed people into agreeing with him or remaining silent. Factions formed, opposing and defending those decisions. Many current and former ministers, elders, lay leaders, and longtime members do not believe the church is better off with Booker, who took the helm in 2020. They say hes the source of the problem. Mark shows patterns of behavior revealing a heart that is not conforming to the role of pastor, associate pastor Michael Balboni wrote in a letter to the elders before he was fired in August. This has led to hurt, harm, and scattering of our flock (Ezekiel 34:16). The current term for this is spiritual abuse, but the Scripture calls it ruling the flock with force and harshness (Ezekiel 34:4) and spiritual domination (1 Peter 5:3). One elder, John Knight, wrote that he thought Booker was preoccupied with sole power and control, demanding secrecy, deceiving those around him, and curtailing all possibility of disagreement, in a document obtained by CT. I have found him to target anyone who disagrees with him, Knight wrote. I believe it is in the best interest of the [senior minister] and Park Street Church to place him on an immediate, indefinite leave of absence for a minimum of 12 months. Knight was placed on leave and not renominated for a second term. Cindy Cutlip, another elder in the church, also resigned last year. I lost confidence in the leadership of Park Street Church, she wrote in a letter explaining the decision. I could no longer be complicit and stand with a group who collectively did not seek godly wisdom nor pursue accountability to the congregation. Park Street is not an especially big church. It currently has about 900 members, down from around 1,500 a decade ago. But it has played an outsized role in the history of American evangelicalism. The Boston congregation defended Trinitarianism in the early 1800s, when many of the descendants of Puritans were rejecting orthodox Christianity. It helped launch the abolitionist movement and encouraged revivalist brimstone preaching. In the mid-20th century, senior minister Harold J. Ockenga worked closely with evangelist Billy Graham to build the institutions that would create and sustain a robust evangelical movement: Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Fuller Theological Seminary, the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), World Relief, and Christianity Today. Ockenga served on the board of CT from 1956 to 1981. Timothy Dalrymple, the current president of CT, attended Park Street when he lived in Boston. Walter Kim, head of the NAE, was previously a minister at Park Street. Clergy at the church have worked on the translation of the New American Standard Bible, the New International Version, and the English Standard Version. The current conflict has deeply divided the congregation. Many fear it has irreparably damaged the churchs ability to proclaim the gospel in Boston and throughout New England. The conflict has also strained the congregational model of governance long prized at Park Streetand may have actually broken it. I hope this is a warning to congregational churches: You are vulnerable, said one current staff member who spoke to CT on the condition that he not be named for fear he would lose his job. You trust the senior minister will not take advantage of the authority of the position. But what happens when they do? I dont think there are adequate checks and balances. Park Street once listed congregationalism as one of its three essential characteristics, along with Trinitarianism and evangelicalism. Members must covenant to continue in the congregational form of church government to join. In a history of the church, former minister Gordon Hugenberger wrote he was proud Park Street had maintained this core commitment for more than 200 years. He said Park Street teaches that Christ has vested the authority of His Church not in a hierarchy of professionals or bishops, who may live far away, or even in one or two local clergy, but in the members of the local congregation itself. In practice, this means the congregation votes to call the senior minister, approve annual budgets, and appoint elders. The day-to-day business of leading the church is run by the elders, but according to the bylaws, all their decisions are subject to review and modification at any duly convened business meeting of the congregation. Any 25 members may call a meeting with a written petition presented to the clerk, which is an elected position at Park Street. Some members dont care about the congregationalism at Park Street and dont bother to vote. One woman who recently left the church told CT that she attended one business meeting in 20 years, though she now regrets that she wasnt more involved. For other members, congregationalism is very important. It was part of the reason they chose to join the church. That sounded like what we wanted, said one lay leader who started attending Park Street in the 1990s. Not authoritarian. Not top-down. But something where we were a church familythe people help with the decision-making process and have more ownership. When Booker was hired as the senior minister in 2020, however, he had no experience working in a congregationalist setting. He was ordained as a priest in the Anglican Church in North America and had always submitted to a bishop. According to people familiar with the discussions in the search committee, the question of congregationalism was not a focus. The churchs first search for a new minister failed, and the second committee, set up in 2019, was under a lot of pressure to succeed. Both put an emphasis on preachingand hoped they might even be able to attract a star. Thats what we asked for. Thats what we prayed for, a church member told CT. I think perhaps because of Marks Anglican background, hes more authoritarian and more used to top-down decisions. Its a bad fit for us, but we didnt screen it out. It wasnt that unusual for Park Street to have a minister who wasnt previously a congregationalist, though. Several previous pastors, including Ockenga, were Presbyterians. But some of those who worked closely with Booker say his approach to leadership was different. He came in and he had a need for control, said one member of the church staff. I think the accurate term is authoritarianism. Booker decided he would preach at all three weekly services. He put his name on a church devotional, even though he hadnt written it. He marginalized the ministers with the most experience and pushed out associate minister Kris Perkins, who had worked for the church for 24 years. Booker presented the departure as Perkinss idea, but it later came out hed told Perkins he had to leave. According to his critics, Booker made it clear that he could fire anyone who disagreed with him, creating a culture of fear as staff members worried about who might be next. Not everyone who worked under Booker agrees with this assessment. I loved working with Mark Bookeras does the majority of the staff, Caitlin Lubinski, former communications director, told CT. He is grounded in the Word of God, has devoted his life to the ministry and sacrificial care of others, and is deeply thoughtful in how he goes about doing that. Bookers supporters, inside and outside the church, say hes done the best he could, faced with an impossible task. He had to take leadership of a historic church with deeply entrenched ways of doing thingsnot all of them healthy. Some senior staff members didnt want Booker to be there, they say, and resisted him every step of the way. Three different people who are not members of the church but are friends of Bookers told CT that the problem at Park Street is a dissident group stirring up opposition to his leadership. Those people should have had the decency to step aside, they argue, and given the minister a chance to make changes and implement his vision for Park Street. An open letter signed by more than 200 people echoes this sentiment. The letter blames reactions by some in the congregation for the intense division and painful situation which we now face." Booker, for his part, told the congregation that he has struggled with the opposition of a sustained resistance movement. He denies the charges of authoritarianism. While he wasnt previously congregational, Booker says he has chosen to embrace the congregationalist polity. He told CT he discerned a call from God to serve at the church and was happy to accept the governance structure. I embraced this new context and was received as an ordained minister in the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference (of which Park Street is a member church), he said in an email. We are committed to discerning Gods will together as a congregation through the means prescribed by our polity. Bookers critics point out, however, that he started making changes to the churchs decision-making process almost as soon as he took charge. One of his first moves was to end a senior leadership team. Under the interim minister before Booker, longtime staff members including Michael Balboni, Kris Perkins, and Julian Linnell had worked together with the senior minister to navigate major ministry issues and the regular weekly schedule of events. Booker discontinued these meetings. He replaced them with a larger meeting, including all the full-time staff, and dubbed it the Ministry Leadership Team. But the Ministry Leadership Team did not actually have any leadership responsibilities, according to multiple people who participated. The staff did not make major decisions, nor were they asked for more than minor input. Mostly, Booker gave them updates on decisions he had already made. Ministers on staff were also told to stop attending elder meetings. Booker disinvited them, according to several people on staff, saying all communication would flow through him. This became an issue in late 2022, when the senior minister told the staff he planned to recommend to the elders that the church discontinue a Sunday afternoon service held at 4 p.m. Booker said it would improve the unity of the church, bringing these very different services together, and make better use of Park Streets resources. He did not ask for the input of any ministers involved with that service or any church leaders who attended. A number of the staff objected. The 4 p.m. service served a congregation that wouldnt likely attend a more traditional service in the morning. The afternoon worship attracted students, immigrants, and people coming into the church through the homeless ministryabout 150 to 200 people on average. The staff said there was no good reason to shut it down. Booker didnt accept the pushback. He pulled staff into four successive meetings, lasting a total of 10 to 12 hours, pressuring them to agree to cancel the service, according to several people who were in the meeting. One described it as getting pummeled for hours. The staff say they were also told they couldnt get input or advice from anyone who attended the afternoon service or the elders because the discussion was confidential. He made us throw away the handouts he gave us, one staff member told CT. He taped up the windows so people couldnt see slides on the screen as they walked by. He told us, You cant tell anybody. When staff members raised specific objections, Booker insisted they supported his plan but just wanted to make tweaks. You know me, one of them said sarcastically, according to someone who was there, Mr. Tweaky. Another told Booker, I dont know about this proposal, but Im supportive of you. The senior minister then took the plan to the board of elders for approval. When the elders asked how the staff felt about the change, Booker said the staff supported it but wanted to make a few changestweaks. He didnt accurately represent the views in the room, a church leader said. He has a vision for the church, and any discussion is opposition and any opposition is neutralized. The elders voted to approve the cancellation of the 4 p.m. service in May 2023. The decision caused an uproarand raised heated questions about the process. About a month later, in June 2023, the elders reversed the decision. We realize that this process caused unnecessary pain, the elders wrote to the congregation. We apologize to you for the process we followed, and we understand that the church would have benefited from us seeking wider input. The elders, however, did not invite ministers back to their meetings. Nor did they object to Bookers new rule that they not attend staff meetings either. Nor did they intervene when Booker adjusted the hiring process for a new city engagement minister in a way that gave Booker more control and limited congregational involvement. The city engagement minister at Park Street reports to the missions minister and is paid out of the missions budget. In June 2023, however, Booker decided that the missions committee wouldnt be involved in interviewing prospective candidates. Instead, according to documents obtained by CT, a smaller search committee would do preliminary interviews and send the best candidates to Booker. He would then do interviews and pick two candidates to visit the church. The candidates would meet with several groups during their visit, which might include members of the missions committee, but might not. Those groups would send their assessments of gifting, qualifications, and fit to the search committeewho would give them to the senior minister. Booker would then make his recommendation to the personnel committee for approval and, finally, to the elders. The missions committee, as a committee, had no vote in the revised process. They would never get to interview candidates. The senior minister, on the other hand, controlled several critical steps. Booker told an elder that Park Street needed to learn that there was only one person who makes decisions, according to several people. When some members of the missions committee objected to the new process, the search was put on pause. The position remains vacant today. That same summer, associate pastor Michael Balboni wrote a 17-page memo to the elders outlining serious concerns I have regarding Marks spiritual leadership due to patterns at variance with the biblical qualifications for the senior minister role. Balboni told the elders he was especially concerned with the way Booker tried to get information out of him and other ministers, without apparent concern for pastoral confidentiality. At the same time, Balboni charged, Booker was increasingly declaring things confidential and warning staff not to share information or discuss things with others in the churcheven elders. This gagging of speech has suffocated staff morale, Balboni wrote, and made it clear that alternative voices are not just unwelcome, but can cause the person to be labeled disloyal and can result in negative repercussions (loss of ones position being a major concern). Some of the conflicts Balboni outlined were small. He noted one time when Booker rebuked him for not putting candles on the Communion table at the 4 p.m. service. But those small things added up, Balboni said. Mark shows basic lack of empathy toward his fellow ministers, the associate minister wrote. Leadership that leads through fear, control, and suppression of others ideas not only destroys staff morale, it impacts the entire church community. The memo was reviewed by a subcommittee of five elders. They interviewed Balboni and Booker. After two weeks, the subcommittee gave the memo to the rest of the elders, and then the board voted to affirm Booker. They said they found no evidence of disqualifying sins. In October 2023, Booker informed Park Street that Balboni had been removed from ministry and was no longer working for the church. Ministry together was no longer feasible, Booker said, because Balboni did not accept the elders decision about his qualifications for ministry. Some members of the church have been pushing for a congregational meeting to review Balbonis charges against Booker and his subsequent dismissal. According to the bylaws, 25 members can call a special meeting if they put the request in writing specifying the purpose of the meeting. The first petition was deemed improper, however, because its stated purpose was to require members of the personnel committee, elders, and ministers to answer questions. Members have no authority to demand to hear from or to interrogate any particular members, employees, or staff of the Church, wrote the Park Street parliamentarian, a church officer who interprets the bylaws for the clerk. Accordingly, the stated purpose of the Special Meeting called for in the Petition is invalid. A second petition was submitted. Fifty Park Street members signed it, asking for a meeting to seek a vote modifying the Board of Elders decision not to do any further investigation into the charges against Booker and to commission an independent investigation. That petition was also rejected. The Members do not have such powers under the Churchs governing documents, the parliamentarian wrote. That same month, the church held a meeting to discuss Balbonis departure. At the meeting, an elder explained there was a change happening in the leadership style at Park Street. That the church was moving away from consensus seeking, the elder said. Park Street was, instead, going to adopt a guidance giving model of leadership under Booker. The announced change upset some Park Street members, who pointed out they had covenanted to a congregationalist form of church government when they joined. Guidance giving leadership didnt sound congregational to them. This style does not include the input of the congregation as these decisions are being made. This practice, as one can see, is then completely antithetical to the principle of congregational consent, wrote Ruth and Joel Luna, longtime members and former deacons, in a letter of protest they sent to the elders. People are supposed to submit to church leaders, but in a congregationalist church, the Lunas explained, submission is predicated on consent. The church has turned away from such practices, they wrote, with leadership expecting submission without providing for the real opportunity to first obtain consent. A third petition for a meeting to review and possibly modify and/or rescind the decision of the Board of Elders who rejected as unsubstantiated the allegations against Booker and decisions of the Board of Elders arising from that rejection was submitted with signatures from more than 60 members. They were told that it too was improper, since it is not valid to call a meeting to review and seek to modify unspecified decisions of the Board. A modified petition for a special meetingthe right of the members, according to the bylawswas resubmitted in early February. A special meeting for part of the petition has been scheduled for April. The churchs clerk, Debbie Gallagher, told CT that despite the bylaws about special meetings, there had never been a petition to have one until this group filed theirs last year. In my experience, Park Street has always been a church promoting healthy dialogue, Gallagher wrote in an email. We frequently hold town halls and have other forums where the congregation can discuss and ask questions. A special meeting should not and will not be held if the stated purpose is for the congregation to do something that is either unlawful or is not permitted by our bylaws. Others, however, say the failure of the petitions is clear evidence that congregational governance at Park Street is broken. There is no real possibility for congregational review, despite what the bylaws say. The democratic promise of the polity was just a mirage. In order for the congregational system to work, youve got to follow the bylaws, said one former minister. You cant change the bylaws. You cant have a parliamentarian, who is not mentioned in the bylaws, come up with new conditions. The bylaws of the church have checks and balances, but what good are they? A current member of the church recalled how excited he was when he first read about Park Streets congregationalist model. I was really enthusiastic, he told CT. I thought it meant the congregation ruled, that the congregation did what the Lord was calling them to do by majority vote. But thats not how it turned out. In the meantime, the clerk and the church leadership have planned the annual meeting, where the congregation votes to approve a budget and select officers and elders. This year, there are seven proposed amendments to the bylaws. Several would change the way meetings are held and what the congregation can do in meetings. Another would give the congregation more access to records, including minutes of meetings and church policies. One proposal would limit the senior ministers ability to make staffing decisions. There are also two opposed slates of candidates going to the congregation for a vote on Sunday. One slate was chosen, in the normal fashion, by the nominating committee, with input from the elders and the senior minister. A second slate has been nominated by petition. On the official list of candidates provided to the congregation by the nominating committee, theres an asterisk after the name of each candidate-by-petition. Five different footnotes say the candidates have not been vetted and cannot be endorsed by the committee. Two say the nominating committee found this person did not best exemplify the qualities required for the position. Some church leaders have also spoken out to condemn the alternative candidates. We cannot let our church turn into a two-party system each year, family minister Adam Herndon wrote in a church newsletter. I would ask that you please trust the work of the Nominating Committee. The chair of the elders, Jason Abraham, said the alternative slate was a referendum on Mark and current leadership, though only indirectly. The elders approved the nonbinding vote to affirm Bookers leadership to force the issue. Abraham told CT he is confident the congregation will vote decisively. I believe Mark Booker, our senior pastor, enjoys the trust and support of the vast majority of our congregation, staff, and leadership, Abraham said in an email. It is important to note for your story that our commitment to congregationalism remains unwavering. The week before the vote, staff members at the church were asked to sign a letter of support affirming Bookers leadership. Five refused. We feel it important that we communicate clearly and honestly, Julian Linnell, Raymond Kam, Damian Long, Tim Leary, and Tammy McLeod wrote in an email they sent to church staff, deacons, and elders. We as ministers of this congregation are deeply distressed by the direction that the church has taken, and by the leadership style that has been adopted, under which we are also subject. Two elders also released a video on behalf of the board, telling the congregation about the meeting on Sunday, expressing regret over the divisions, confessing they had fallen short of their shepherding responsibilities, and promising that the elders and the senior minister would grow. We encourage each of you to do your own self reflection, especially in this season of Lent, said elder John Liu. All our annual meetings are important, but this one will have an extraordinary impact on the future of our church. Park Streets annual business meeting will be held on Sunday in the sanctuary at 12:45 p.m. This article has been edited to clarify John Knights departure from the board of elders, the creation of the senior leadership team, and the framing of an elders comments about the shift from consensus-seeking to guidance-giving leadership. Correction: An earlier version of this article said the petititonerss were still waiting to hear if a special meeting would be scheduled. A meeting for part of the revised petition has been scheduled for April 7. Home News Atlanta church honors DA Fani Willis as she faces scrutiny amid Trump prosecution The Georgia district attorney who is prosecuting former President Donald Trump embraced the negative publicity she has faced as "weapons" ordained by God to make her "stronger." In remarks shared on X by the account Woke Preacher Clips Monday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis addressed the congregation at Atlanta's Berean Church Sunday. Willis has been in the headlines a lot over the past year as her office brought charges against Trump, who remains the frontrunner to receive the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election. 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 Last summer, a Fulton County grand jury indicted Trump on a variety of charges, including racketeering, conspiracy to commit forgery in the first degree, conspiracy to commit false statements and writings as well as conspiracy to commit filing false documents in connection with a phone call he made to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger shortly after the 2020 presidential election asking him to "find 11,780 votes." President Joe Biden won the state election with 11,779 votes, and the former president insists that voter fraud affected the outcome of the election in the state. Critics of the president believe his actions amounted to election interference. Amid the indictment in Fulton County, Willis has faced media attention and scrutiny. One of the co-defendants in the case sought to have Willis disqualified after allegations that she was in a romantic relationship with Special Prosecutor Nathan Wade, whom she appointed to work on the case. Willis and Wade have dismissed all allegations of wrongdoing and improper behavior. As she addressed the congregation at the Seventh-day Adventist church, Willis expressed gratitude for people who have sent her Scripture passages as a show of support. "Different people from all different walks of life keep sending me this one Scripture, and I don't think I ever really heard it till maybe two days ago," she said. "The Scripture they keep sending me is 'no weapon formed against you shall prosper,'" Willis noted. The passage in question comes from Isaiah 54:17. As the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, Willis stressed that "they did not say the weapons will not form, and that's the part I didn't hear until recently." She added, "just because they won't prosper, it doesn't mean that they won't form." "Even if you feel like everything you are doing in your life is the right thing and you're making mistakes all along the way, but you are trying, you should not think that those weapons will not form," she said. "The other lesson that I've learned in these three years is God ordains those weapons. He puts those weapons in your life to form against you and if you really understand Him, you become in your maturity to understand He does it for a reason and it's to grow you and it's to make you stronger and it is to prepare you." After describing her job as "really hard" and acknowledging that she is an "imperfect human being," Willis remarked, "I can literally feel the people who loves me's prayers." She urged the congregation to "throw my name in a prayer" because "God hears his children." As Berean Church Pastor Sherwin Jack explained before introducing Willis, the prosecutor has direct ties to the house of worship. "Her daughter went to our school just across the way," he noted. Willis was on stage to accept a "Black History Achievement Award" from the church "in appreciation for outstanding service rendered to our church and to our community." The congregation also gave her the Conflict of the Ages book series written by Seventh-day Adventist Church co-founder Ellen White in addition to flowers in appreciation for being a "beautiful person." A member of church leadership prayed for Willis, asking God "to be with Sister Willis" and to "cover her from her head to her toe" in addition to expressing hope that "your power that's above any other power will reside not just around her but in her." "We ask, Lord, that you'll open up the windows of Heaven and pour out a blessing that is so mighty and so bold and so brave and so precise that she could not help but to say 'my help cometh from the Lord.' Lord, we pray in a real way that tomorrow will be better than yesterday, that Lord she will stand and give You the due honor and praise for You're a God that inhabits the praises of Your people." In a court filing earlier this month, Willis described the motion filed by one of Trump's co-defendants as an attempt to "cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade's appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney." The court document states that "District Attorney Willis and Special Prosecutor Wade have been professional associates and friends since 2019, there was no personal relationship between them in November 2021 at the time of Special Prosecutor Wade's appointment." Additionally, it insists that "any relationship between members of the prosecution team does not amount to a disqualifying conflict of interest or otherwise harm a criminal defendant." The court filing pushes back on allegations that Willis and Wade have "any financial interest in the conviction of any defendant" and rejected the notion that "payment of earned compensation to Special Prosecutor Willis" has benefitted Wade. The document came in response to a request from Trump's co-defendant Michael Roman to dismiss Willis, citing concerns that both she and Wade lied about the timeline surrounding their intimate relationship. Home News Christian man sentenced to life in prison for blasphemy over Facebook post using his stolen phone LAHORE, Pakistan A judge sentenced a Christian man to life in prison under Pakistans blasphemy statutes for a social media message that relatives say was posted using a phone stolen from him, sources said. Fanson Shahid, 56, sustained beatings in his home in Lahore when he was arrested in March 2022 and tortured into confessing after he was accused of posting a derogatory remark about the prophet of Islam in a comment on a post that another Christian had shared, his wife said. The phone on which the Facebook comment was made had been stolen from him in 2019, she said. 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 Justice Zafar Yab Chadhar of the Additional Sessions Court Gujranwala District, Punjab Province, handed down the sentence on Jan. 24, but the family did not disclose it until now. We were praying for Shahids acquittal because hes innocent, but the verdict has shattered our hopes for justice, his sister, Sonia Shahid, told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Investigators found Fanson Shahids Facebook account was logged on in the new phone they recovered in 2022 and presented that as evidence that he had made the comment. His wife, Safia Shahid, said at that time, We believe that the lost phone was misused by someone to post the blasphemous comment, because my husband did not use a passcode for its security, and his Facebook account was also logged in. Fanson Shahid was convicted under Section 295-C of Pakistans blasphemy statutes, which calls for a mandatory death sentence for derogatory comments about Muhammad, but Chadhar cited as a mitigating circumstance that the comment was posted only once. If a single doubt or ground is available creating reasonable doubt in the mind of the court/judge to award even death penalty or life imprisonment, it would be sufficient circumstance to adopt alternative course by awarding life imprisonment instead of death sentence, Chadhar wrote in the verdict. He also handed Fanson Shahid a fine of 100,000 rupees (USD $358). Shahid was also convicted under Section 295-A, which prohibits hurting religious sentiments, and sentenced to three years in prison. He was also convicted under Section 153-A, which prohibits causing communal unrest, and sentenced to one year in prison and a fine of 50,000 rupees (USD $179). The judge also sentenced Shahid to three years in prison under Section 11 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which prohibits promoting religious hatred on social media. The sentences are to run concurrently, the courts verdict stated. Sonia Shahid said the verdict shocked the family, members of the Full Gospel Assemblies Church. Fanson Shahid has two children, and his family has been forced to relocate from their house due to fears for their security. Prominent Christian lawyer Lazar Allah Rakha said the verdict showed the court had disregarded the defenses arguments without giving a reason for doing so. Moreover, there are glaring contradictions in the statements of the prosecution witnesses which discredit the entire prosecution evidence, Rakha told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. The court blindly relied on the prosecutions evidence instead of viewing both the prosecution and defenses versions. Rakha said Shahid was entitled to acquittal as prosecutors failed to prove their case without any shadow of doubt. Sonia Shahid said the family was scrambling for support to file an appeal in the Lahore High Court. The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the verdict, and with less than a week left to submit it, the family has yet to find able legal representation. Fanson Shahid worked as a purchase officer at Pakistan Railways in Lahore and was due to retire in eight years when he was arrested on blasphemy charges in 2022. 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. Home News Dems upset Mike Johnson selected Pastor Jack Hibbs to serve as guest chaplain A group of Democratic lawmakers have expressed outrage that a prominent megachurch pastor they claim is a "Christian nationalist" was allowed to serve as a guest chaplain in the U.S. House of Representatives. In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and House Chaplain Rev. Margaret Grun Kibben published Thursday, 26 House Democrats outlined their concerns about the speaker's decision to sponsor Pastor Jack Hibbs as a guest chaplain for the chamber. Hibbs, who serves as the pastor of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in California, delivered an opening prayer in the House on Jan. 30. 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 Led by Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., the signatories contend that "Hibbs is a radical Christian nationalist who helped fuel the January 6th insurrection and has a long record of spewing hateful vitriol towards non-Christians, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQ community." The Democrats insisted that "he should never have been granted the right to deliver the House's opening prayer on January 30, 2024." The Christian Post reached out to Calvary Chapel Chino Hills seeking comment from Hibbs on the letter. A response was not received by press time. The other signatories to the letter were Reps. Jamie Raskin, D-Md.; Mark Pocan, D-Wis.; Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash.; Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill.; Sean Casten, D-Ill.; Susan Wild, D-Pa.; Hank Johnson, D-Ga.; Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y.; Mark Takano, D-Calif.; Robert Garcia, D-Calif.; Dan Goldman, D-N.Y.; Becca Balint, D-Vt.; Delia Ramirez, D-Ill.; Katie Porter, D-Calif.; Kevin Mullin, D-Calif.; John Garamendi, D-Calif.; Ilhan Omar, D-Minn.; Raul Ruiz, D-Calif.; Barbara Lee, D-Calif.; Jim McGovern, D-Mass.; Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.; Julia Brownley, D-Calif.; Summer Lee, D-Pa.; and Gerry Connolly, D-Va. Eleanor Holmes Norton, a nonvoting delegate from the District of Columbia, also signed the letter. "In the days leading up to the [Jan. 6, 2021] attack on the [U.S.] Capitol, Hibbs echoed Donald Trump's election fraud lies and inflamed his followers by preaching that January 6th would go down in history alongside the War of Independence and the War of 1812," they wrote. "By preaching that God had anointed the Trump administration and could still intercede to save Trump's presidency on January 6th, Hibbs advanced a religious permission structure that led to violence by those who believed any means were justified to carry out what they viewed as God's plan." The lawmakers noted that Hibbs attended the "Stop the Steal" rally at the Ellipse in Washington that preceded the storming of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters later that day. In an appearance on Family Research Council President Tony Perkins' "Washington Watch" program on Jan. 7, 2021, Hibbs declared: "This is what you get when you eject God from the courts and from the schools" and teach children they are "evolutionary byproducts." The lawmakers lamented his comments during the opening prayer as guest chaplain. They took issue with Hibbs' use of the terms "holy fear," "repentance" and "national sins," describing them as "allusions to the militant and fanatical agenda he preaches about the LGBTQ+ community, Jews, Muslims, and anyone who conflicts with his 'biblical worldview.'" They cited his referral to trans-identified people as a "sexually perverted cult" who are "in violation of the word and will of God" as well as part of an "anti-God, anti-Christ plan of none other than Satan himself" as examples of what they called "hateful and divisive" views. "He claims that same-sex marriage has 'crucified God's word' and that homosexuality and acceptance of LGBTQ+ people is evidence that humanity is living in the 'last days.' He champions discredited 'conversion therapy' and has rallied opposition to a California law to reduce LGBTQ+ bullying in schools," they added. The lawmakers condemned Hibbs' characterization of Islam as a "death cult" and his assertion that Judaism "cannot save you." "Hibbs also embraces the false and exclusionary Christian nationalist narrative that the United States was established as a 'Christian nation,' and he has repeatedly flouted separation of church and state by working to institutionalize Christian prayer and bible readings at local school board meetings, among other things," the letter states. The lawmakers maintain that Hibbs' presence in the House on Jan. 30 ran afoul of established guidelines for guest chaplains. "Hibbs is not from the district of Speaker Johnson (i.e. the sponsoring member), Speaker Johnson did not deliver a welcoming speech, the prayer was not delivered on the last legislative day of the week, and Hibbs was Speaker Johnson's second sponsored Guest Chaplain in the span of just a couple months, even though Members are limited to one request per Congress." The letter asserted that Hibbs does not meet the requirements that guest chaplains deliver a prayer that is "mindful of diversity," "transcends petty differences" and "expresses a common aspiration to a just and peaceful society." The lawmakers concluded that Johnson "decided to flout the Chaplaincy guidelines and use the platform of the Guest Chaplain to lend the imprimatur of Congress to an ill-qualified hate preacher who shares the Speaker's Christian nationalist agenda and his overriding antipathy toward church-state separation." The lawmakers requested "a complete explanation of the process by which Pastor Hibbs was recommended, vetted, and approved, including the reason(s) why the Chaplain waived basic requirements of the Guest Chaplain program for Hibbs, of all people" as well as a vow that the House leadership will "prevent someone with a hateful and divisive record from delivering the opening prayer and to ensure that people of all faiths and values are equitably represented as Guest Chaplains." Pairi Daiza, a Belgian animal park on Tuesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this autumn and a farewell event will be organized. BRUSSELS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- A Belgian animal park on Tuesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this year. Tian Bao, born in 2016, and twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019, will leave Pairi Daiza Park in Hainault in the autumn of 2024. "Our three 'baby' pandas, cherished by all since their arrival, will have to leave Pairi Daiza in 2024," the park said in a statement. "However, we have been incredibly fortunate to have them with us for over 4 years (for Bao Di and Bao Mei) and almost 8 years (for Tian Bao)." The sending of the pandas to China is part of an initial agreement between Pairi Daiza and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA). When the parents of the three pandas, Hao Hao and Xing Hui, arrived in Belgium in 2014, a 15-year loan had been agreed. This agreement also stipulated that all descendants of the panda couple born in Belgium would go to China at the age of four, to participate in breeding and conservation programs for the species. However, the process of Tian Bao's return to China has been delayed by the restrictive measures against the coronavirus pandemic. The departure of the three pandas marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Pairi Daiza and China to protect the giant panda. "The departure of the three 'little' pandas is a further step in our commitment to the conservation of this emblematic species," the park said. Pairi Daiza is encouraging visitors to come and enjoy the last few months of Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei's presence. The park will organize special events to celebrate the three pandas' birthdays and say goodbye. Home News Supreme Court urged to allow Idaho's ban on sex change surgeries for minors to take effect Idaho is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to allow the state's law banning hormonal and surgical gender interventions for minors to take effect after a lower court blocked the measure. Idaho's Republican Attorney General Raul Labrador filed an emergency motion in conjunction with the law firms Alliance Defending Freedom and Cooper & Kirk, his office announced Monday. The motion asks the Supreme Court to narrow an order from the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho preventing the Vulnerable Child Protection Act from taking effect to cover only the challengers. 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 Passed in April 2023, the legislation prohibits the performance of gender transition procedures on youth with gender dysphoria, including body-altering surgeries and use of hormone-blocking drugs and cross-sex hormones. The parents of two trans-identified youths sued to get the law struck down. Labrador insisted in the statement that "the state has a duty to protect and support all children" from "the devastating consequences of drugs and procedures used on children with gender dysphoria." "I'm proud to defend Idaho's law that ensures children are not subjected to these life-altering drugs and procedures," he said. "Those suffering gender dysphoria deserve love, support, and medical care rooted in biological reality. Denying the basic truth that boys and girls are biologically different hurts our kids. No one has the right to harm children, and thankfully, we as the state have the power and duty to protect them." District Judge B. Lynn Winmill, a Clinton appointee, issued a preliminary injunction late last year striking down the law as litigation against it continues. "As matters currently stand, doctors decide based on a widely accepted standard of care whether puberty blockers, hormones, and other treatments are appropriate for any particular patient," wrote Winmill. "[The Act] would not only prevent doctors from acting in accordance with that standard of care; it would subject them to felony charges and a potential 10-year prison sentence. Again, that does not serve the State's interest in protecting Idaho's youth; it harms them." The state unsuccessfully asked the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to allow the law to take effect as legal proceedings continue. The American College of Pediatricians contends that gender transition procedures, which may include the use of puberty-blocking drugs or cross-sex hormones, can present "harm" to minors. The group lists "osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment" and sterility as possible side effects of puberty blockers. As for cross-sex hormones, also given to trans-identified youth, potential long-term implications include "an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan." In 2022, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Physicians, the American Osteopathic Association and the American Psychiatric Association released a joint statement denouncing state-level efforts to "criminalize gender-affirming care" for young people. "Patients, including youth, must be able to discuss gender-affirming care with their trusted physician to determine together what care is best for them. All patients must have access to evidence-based health care, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation," they stated. Idaho is one of 23 states that have enacted bans on some or all forms of gender transition procedures for minors. The others are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia. A whistleblower who formerly worked at a clinic that provided gender transition procedures for minors recounted last year how an underage girl prescribed testosterone experienced severe bleeding and a vaginal laceration while another girl had her clitoris transform into a "tiny penis" that "chafed and rubbed painfully in her jeans." The long-term effects of gender transition surgeries, which result in the removal of healthy body parts that align with an individual's biological sex and the creation of synthetic body parts that correspond with their stated gender identity, have also received particular attention in recent years. Chloe Cole, a detransitioner who once identified as a boy and underwent gender transition procedures as a minor, filed a lawsuit in February 2023 against medical providers involved in her surgical intervention. She alleges that the double mastectomy she underwent as a teenager caused her to experience suicidal thoughts and left her with "deep physical and emotional wounds, severe regrets, and distrust of the medical system." Home News St. Patrick's Cathedral conducts Mass of Reparation after trans activist funeral stokes outrage: 'Sacrilegious fiasco' The pastor of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City performed a Mass of Reparation over the weekend after a funeral for a trans activist prompted outrage from Catholics for its sacrilegious antics. More than 1,000 people packed the pews of the iconic midtown Manhattan cathedral last Thursday to celebrate the life of Cecilia Gentili, a trans-identifying man who was born in Argentina and lived in the U.S. illegally for a decade until being granted asylum in 2011 and becoming a citizen in 2022. Gentili died Feb. 6 at age 52. A former prostitute who was once was addicted to drugs and jailed at Rikers Island, Gentili appeared on TV, performed Off Broadway, and became a well-known advocate for the transgender community, sex workers, and HIV/AIDS patients, according to The New York Times. Gentili reportedly had a strained relationship with religion and identified as an atheist. 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 According to footage of Gentili's funeral that circulated on social media, raucous applause erupted throughout the service as eulogists repeatedly referred to Gentili as "Saint Cecilia, mother of whores," cross-dressing actor Billy Porter sang a song by Whitney Houston, a reader prayed for transgender healthcare, and an attendee danced down around the casket and down the aisle. Father Edward Dougherty, who noted that the funeral drew an Easter-size audience, also used feminine pronouns to refer to Gentili and called him "our sister." The event prompted fierce backlash from conservative Catholic organizations. CatholicVote called the ceremony "unbelievable and sick" and "a mockery of the Christian faith. The Rev. Nicholas Gregoris of the Priestly Society of Saint John Henry Cardinal Newman condemned it as a "blasphemous & sacrilegious fiasco" that was "a deplorable desecration of Americas most famous Catholic Church." On Sunday, Catholic author and Fox News contributor Raymond Arroyo blasted the antics at the funeral as a "catastrophe" for Catholics and "an outrage" that demands answers. "Not everybody can get married at St. Patrick's, or get a funeral at St. Patrick's," he said. "There are requirements." Noting how Canon Law forbids ecclesiastical funerals for "manifest sinners" whose funeral would cause "public scandal of the faithful," Arroyo said, "It's not 'come as you are.' This is not a Broadway theater. This is not a club. This is a house of worship, you must come on the terms of the Church." "FOR CATHOLICS, THIS IS A CATASTROPHE": A funeral for a self-proclaimed atheist trans activist was held at St. Patricks Cathedral in New York City. @RaymondArroyo sounds off the scandalous and sacrilegious behavior condemned by the New York archdiocese pic.twitter.com/MkkQfbqdfd The Big Weekend Show (@BigWeekendShow) February 19, 2024 Amid the outrage, Father Enrique Salvo said in a statement released by the Archdiocese of New York on Saturday that church leaders were unaware of Gentili's identity and how irreverent the service would be. "Thanks to so many who have let us know they share our outrage over the scandalous behavior at a funeral here at St. Patricks Cathedral earlier this week," Salvo wrote. "The Cathedral only knew that family and friends were requesting a funeral Mass for a Catholic, and had no idea our welcome and prayer would be degraded in such a sacrilegious and deceptive way." "That such a scandal occurred at 'Americas Parish Church' makes it worse; that it took place as Lent was beginning, the annual 40-day struggle with the forces of sin and darkness, is a potent reminder of how much we need the prayer, reparation, repentance, grace, and mercy to which this holy season invites us," Salvo continued. Salvo added that a Mass of Reparation had been performed in the cathedral Saturday at the direction of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who has not publicly commented on the situation. The funeral was organized by Ceyenne Doroshow, another trans-identifying man, who maintained that they kept Gentili's trans identity "under wraps" from the archdiocese, according to the Times. Doroshow said Gentili's family wanted a funeral in St. Patrick's because "it is an icon, just like [him]," and blasted the archdiocese for "hypocrisy and anti-trans hatred" in the wake of their statement. Gentili's funeral marks the second time in recent months a Mass of Reparation at a New York City church has made headlines. In November, Bishop Robert Brennan of the Diocese of Brooklyn performed a Mass of Reparation to cleanse the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Williamsburg after pop star Sabrina Carpenter used it as the setting for a lewd, violent music video. The parish reportedly maintained to the diocese at the time that Carpenter's production company had been misleading about the content of the video they intended to film, but the diocese demoted its pastor and said "a review of the documents presented to the parish in advance of the production, while failing to depict the entirety of the scenes, clearly portray inappropriate behavior unsuitable for a church sanctuary." Home Opinion Will your Judgment Day end badly? America in many ways is like Disneyland, especially if you compare our nation to countries like North Korea, Syria, Saudi Arabia and China. Freedom abounds in the United States, and materialistic distractions are everywhere. We are a land of lattes, live streaming and liposuction. And it is extremely easy to get lost in the glitter and lose sight of what really matters. If it was all taken away and you were left with nothing, you would still have your immortal soul. The real you consists of your thoughts, decisions, hopes, fears, dreams, desires, emotions, experiences and cognitive ability. Even if you were to lose an arm or a leg in an accident, your soul would remain fully intact. Right now, you might be completely absorbed in a career, or health concerns, or the pursuit of more material possessions. But what is your endgame? That is to say, are you prepared to meet your Maker when you die? You might respond, I have no plans to die anytime soon. Fair enough. But what if Gods timeline for your life on Earth is different than your own? 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 When a young person dies, it catches everyone completely off guard. Life is fragile and can be snuffed out in a moment without any advance notice. The Bible describes it this way: What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (James 4:14). You see, your brief tour of America is just a layover before catching your flight to your eternal destination. When your body expires, your soul is transported to one of two places. Bestselling author John Burke wrote, Imagine Heaven, in which he compares over 100 stories of near-death experiences to what Scripture teaches on the subject. Doctors, college professors, bank presidents, people of all ages and cultures, and even blind people point to the exhilarating picture of Heaven promised in the Bible. And of course, some of their experiences were hellish rather than heavenly. If you are not willing to take God at His Word concerning Heaven and Hell, will you at least consider what some people have experienced when coming within a whisker of permanently leaving their earthly body? If you have no interest in what happens to your soul when you die, then I am sorry to say that your American dream is going to suffer a violent collision one of these days. You can still avoid this cataclysmic collision. But you will need to repent. Jesus said, But unless you repent, you too will all perish (Luke 13:3). Right now, you might feel like there is safety in numbers. Perhaps you assume that just because most of your friends are unbelievers, you are safely tucked away deep within their ranks. After all, the numbers are on your side, right? But what if those numbers do not provide you with safety after all? Imagine standing in a line of 100 people waiting to meet the Judge of the living and the dead. Do you honestly think God is going to allow you into Heaven simply because the majority of those in line also chose to reject Jesus? A numbers advantage will do nothing to save your soul. When you stand before God on Judgment Day, you will either be forgiven or unforgiven. Forgiven sinners enter Heaven, and unforgiven sinners are thrown into Hell (see Daniel 12:2; Matthew 7:13-14; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 20:15). Why should you believe it? Because it is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18). Repentance and faith in Jesus is the only way to escape Hell and enter Heaven. Perhaps you assume that if you keep yourself busy enough and dont think about Judgment Day, it wont ever reach you. Nothing could be further from the truth my friend. You have a divine appointment with your Creator, just like everyone else. Your appointment in Gods courtroom is an absolute certainty. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10). Unless you repent, you will receive the punishment you deserve for all the sins you have committed against God. Therefore, turn from your sins and ask Jesus to forgive you. He will gladly do so. After all, this is why Christ suffered and died on the cross in the first place. The Lord wants to forgive you so that you can live with Him forever in Heaven. But if you refuse to come to Christ in repentance and faith, your appointment in Gods courtroom will not go well for you. Will you take God at His Word, or will you charge down the path that results in you being punished for your sins? You dont have to let the American dream turn into a never-ending nightmare. The clock is ticking. Will you repent before your tour of America concludes? One of these days you will board the flight to your final destination. Your brief layover in the United States will soon be nothing more than a memory. So, will your layover in America end badly, or will you be welcomed into Paradise when you die? (see Luke 23:32-43). Laughing it off or ignoring this issue is the biggest mistake you could ever make. Multitudes of people now know from firsthand experience that Hell is real. But there is nothing they can do to change their situation. There are no planes, trains, helicopters or transportation of any kind leaving Hell. The only flights to Heaven and Hell are one way. Can you imagine Heaven? Can you imagine Hell? Dont make the tragic mistake so many others have made. Come to Christ in this holy moment. Gods desire for you to be saved is a million times greater (see 1 Timothy 2:4-6; John 3:16-18; 2 Peter 3:9). As much as I would love for you to know Jesus personally, God wants it much more. Home News 2 Americans accused of preaching, conversions at Baptist hospital in India Reports of arrest and detention are false, superintendent of police says Authorities in India fined two American citizens for allegedly violating the conditions of their tourist visa by preaching and carrying out conversions a claim their host refutes. Local media outlets were notified by the Superintendent of Police of the Sonitpur district of Assam state that James Michael Flinchum, 73, and Matthew Jon Boone, 64, had been taken into custody from the Baptist Christian Hospital at Tezpur's Mission Chariali. Their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) papers permitted Flinchum admission beginning in October 2023 and multiple entries to Boone beginning in December 2023. They were allowed to engage in "Recreation/Sight-Seeing" activities under their tourist visa, which Assam state police alleged were illegal. 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 They were charged with engaging in religious activities at several locations by the government. On Jan. 31, the two men went to the Baptist Mission Complex in Tezpur for the opening of the North Bank Baptist Christian Association. After that, on Feb. 2, they were taken into custody at the hospital and fined. While media reports claimed the duo were arrested, Sushanta Biswa Sharma, the Superintendent of Police of Sonitpur District, told media outlets that the police hadn't arrested the two foreign nationals but had detained and fined them $500 each. Sharma also alleged that the two men had deliberately violated their visa terms and so the police had been following up with authorities to blacklist them. Speaking to Christian Today, the general secretary of North Bank Baptist Christian Association (NBBCA), Chowaram Daimari denied the detention of the two visitors. They were neither detained nor deported but were fined. After the fine was paid, they were asked to carry-on their tourism freely as planned, said Daimari. The allegation of conversion Flinchum and Boone has stayed at the Baptist Christian Hospital campus upon their arrival to Tezpur on Jan. 31. Flinchum was the ex-associate director of Baptist General Conference (BGC), the organization that founded the Baptist Christian Hospital, Tezpur in 1954. Daimari from the NBBCA told Christian Today that he refuted accusations by authorities that the two men had led conversions at the hospital compound. The Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) of Sonitpur district, Madhurima Das, was quoted by media outlets as claiming: A Baptist association had held a building inauguration function in Tezpur and Baptist leaders from different parts of Assam had gathered there. The two U.S. nationals were also present there. The building itself is incomplete, it is half-done, so we have to say that they had come for conversion activities. Since they were in the country on tourist visas, they cannot participate in any religious meet. Daimari explained that the proposed office of the NBBCA is in the hospital compound, and as Flinchum and Boone were staying on the campus, they attended the inauguration function, which was held on Feb. 1. Flinchum was once closely associated with the hospital, hence we requested him to pray and share his thought on the building, said Daimari. There is no question of conversion activities taking place as stated by some media outlets, since all the participants attending the inauguration function were Christians, he added. Furthermore, he told Christian Today that the building's construction is 90% complete and that the contract was given nine months ago. It is wrong to say that the building is half-done. It is fully complete inside and only some painting portions remain outside. The contractor had agreed to finish the paint job before the inauguration which he could not finish. We had already sent all our invitations for the inauguration and thus we did not change the date, clarified Daimari. The NBBCA, in co-operation with the Baptist General Conference, released a press statement on Feb. 10, that said: After the function was over, two men came from the police station and asked about the function. I (Daimari) explained to them what was happening. On the next day, Feb. 2, while they (two Americans) were visiting Kaziranga National Park, the same police personnel asked for photos of the inauguration function. After receiving the photos they came and met the tourists at hospital when they arrived from the national park. Their passports and visas were checked. After some time they were informed that they needed to pay $500 each for violating tourist visa norms. There was no detention or deportation. Flinchum and Boone left Tezpur on Feb. 3 for Guwahati and left India about three days later, according to Daimari. The Assam government in October 2022 had instructed all the districts in that state to monitor foreigners who arrive and keep a close check on them if they indulge in conversion activities, which is in violation of visa norms. They were also instructed to monitor religious gatherings and check the travel documents of the foreigners who are found attending any religious gatherings. Shocked at the inauguration function being called a religious gathering, Daimari concluded, Praying in a building inauguration does not make it a religious function. I feel that they are interpreting the law according to their understanding. Originally published by Christian Today India Home News George Barna: The US needs a 'spiritual awakening' to achieve 'unity' A prominent Christian researcher is insisting that with the 2024 presidential election less than a year away, the United States needs a spiritual awakening to resolve the pervasive division and polarization that has come to define American politics. The Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University released its fifth annual American Worldview Inventory on Monday. Based on interviews with 2,000 U.S. adults conducted in January, the survey examined the prevalence of 14 different worldviews among the population. The research identified syncretism, defined as a fusion of disparate ideologies, beliefs, behaviors, and principles culled from a variety of competing worldviews into a customized blend, as the dominant worldview in American society. Ninety-two percent of those surveyed embrace syncretism. 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 second-most common worldview, biblical theism, is adhered to by 4% of U.S. adults. The Cultural Research Center defines biblical theism, also known as the biblical worldview, as a means of experiencing, interpreting, and responding to reality in light of biblical perspectives. The Cultural Research Center measures adherence to a biblical worldview based on responses to survey questions asking about the Bible, truth and morals, faith practices, family and the value of life, God, creation and history, human character and nature, lifestyle, behavior and relationships, purpose and calling as well as sin, salvation and God relationship. Support for four additional worldviews was recorded at 1% each: Mormonism, nihilism, postmodernism and secular humanism. The remaining worldviews, animism, Eastern mysticism, Islam, Judaism, Marxism, moralistic therapeutic deism, satanism and Wicca each had less than 0.5% adherence. Additionally, the survey found that adherence to Syncretism extends across multiple religious denominations. Syncetrism is embraced by 92% of Christians, who constitute 66% of the population. By contrast, just 6% of Christians subscribe to a biblical worldview. Within Christianity, syncretism was most pronounced among Catholics (98%), who make up 17% of the population. Just 1% of Catholics adhere to the biblical worldview. Eighty-eight percent of Protestants and 96% of Christians who subscribe to a different faith tradition also embrace syncretism. On the other hand, only 9% of Protestants and 4% of other Christians have a biblical worldview. Protestants and other Christians account for 36% and 11% of the population, respectively. Mormons had the smallest share of adherents embracing syncretism (74%), with the remaining 26% subscribing to Mormonism. Eighty-nine percent of those who do not belong to any particular religion adhere to syncretism, with 5% of the non-religious living in accordance with secular humanism. George Barna, the director of the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University and a well-known pollster, elaborated on the results of this years American Worldview Inventory and their implications for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. People have become so self-focused and their beliefs are so self-serving that no politician elected in 2024 can reasonably be expected to restore common purpose and shared vision to the nation without a serious reshaping of peoples worldviews, he said. Barna identified the only true hope for America at this point as a period of spiritual renewal that restores a widespread understanding and basis of truth, individual purpose, and personal responsibility within a community context. According to Barna, Placing the burden of uniting this divided a country on the shoulders of a president or political party is unrealistic. Only a spiritual awakening can usher in the required tidal wave of spiritual wisdom and commitment, and that kind of renewal does not happen overnight or randomly. It must become an intentional and long-term commitment, he added. In addition to examining the prevalence of certain worldviews in American society, the latest research found that a majority of adults possess the same points of view in relation to less than one-third of the 53 unique worldview indicators in the Inventory. Barna identified nine of the 53 items as beliefs or behaviors that would be helpful in building a national consensus for moving the country forward in unity. The survey found that most Americans view the Bible as an authoritative and trustworthy guidebook for life and see Jesus Christ as an important guide for ones life. At the same time, a majority of Americans agree that hatred and aggression are not necessary for personal survival and thought it was important to thank, praise, and worship God at least once during the week. Most Americans also agreed that not attempting to cast a spell on other people and rejected the philosophy that you can do whatever you want to do as long as it does not harm other people. The ideas that people should repay any money that [they] borrow from someone else and that people should have the option not to personally participate in abortion, regardless of their belief about the permissibility of other people having an abortion also received majority support. The American Worldview Inventory also singled out some of the areas where Americans could not seem to come to an agreement: the basis of truth, whether other people deserve to be respected, the importance of the God of Israel as an authority source and guide for life, belief about the value of human life, acceptance of the existence of absolute moral truths and the existence of Satan. Americans also had a hard time agreeing on the means to happiness in life, the morality of intentionally deceiving other people, the morality of premarital sex, personal commitment to discerning and doing Gods will and the appropriate relationship to and treatment of animals. Home News Groups warn against Biden's 'twisted attempt' to cut federal funding for pro-life pregnancy centers Pro-lifers are alarmed by a proposed Biden administration rule that could potentially end federal funding for pregnancy resource centers and other organizations that provide free resources and counseling services to pregnant women in need. In October, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed tightening regulations for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, a national resource for low-income families. The program rules outlined the purposes of TANF, which include preventing and reducing out-of-wedlock pregnancies. The proposed rule claims that the link between pro-life pregnancy centers and preventing or reducing out-of-wedlock pregnancies is tenuous or non-existent, noting that these centers counsel women who are already pregnant. The suggested rule would require states that provide funding for pregnancy centers and similar programs to demonstrate that they accomplish the TANF purpose. 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 If pregnancy prevention programming is a part of an ongoing program, such as year-round after-school programming, only those costs associated with delivery of pregnancy prevention should be cost allocated and non-TANF funds used to fund other activities, the rule states. Kristi Hamrick, vice president of media and policy for Students for Life of America and Students for Life Action, questioned why Planned Parenthood continues to receive taxpayer funding without issue compared to pregnancy resource centers. It seems a violation of the regulations along with the letter and spirit of the law to cut out groups serving pregnant and parenting mothers while supporting those who want to make sure that your parenthood plans include zero children, Hamrick told The Christian Post about the proposed rule. Especially as young families are struggling in Biden's economy, the many hundreds of pregnancy care centers set up in communities across America need to be utilized to provide support. The pro-life advocate argued that the Biden administrations opposition to funding pregnancy resource centers is indicative of what Hamrick described as abortion bias among the Democratic Partys leadership. She also asserted that abortion appears to be the only choice that the Biden administration supports. In response to the proposed rule change, U.S. Sens. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, and Tim Scott, R-S.C., introduced the "Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act" earlier this month. The act would prohibit the secretary of Health and Human Services from restricting funding for pregnancy centers. As Risch noted in his press release announcing the legislation, there are more than 2,700 pregnancy centers throughout the United States. According to a December 2023 report released by the pro-life Charlotte Lozier Institute, pregnancy centers provided more than $350 million worth of services and goods in 2022. The national pro-life group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America joined multiple advocacy groups in supporting the legislation introduced by Risch and Scott. Kelsey Pritchard, SBA Pro-Life Americas director of state public affairs, told CP the proposed rule change to TANF under the Biden administration is not surprising. It's really a twisted attempt on their part to hinder pregnancy centers' ability to serve women who may experience an unplanned pregnancy, Pritchard said. And it really demonstrates that the Biden administration is not pro-choice; they are pro-abortion. After the U.S. Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade in June 2022, a decision that restored regulatory authority over abortion to the states, Pritchard said she noticed an increase in political attacks against pregnancy resource centers. Last October, U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., held a press conference outside one pregnancy center, vowing that he would shut down these brainwashing cult clinics. Pregnancy centers in Pennsylvania also faced a new challenge after Gov. Josh Shapiro announced in August an end to a contract with Real Alternatives, an organization that distributed funds to pregnancy resource centers. Pritchard believes there is some good news, however, citing a poll CP reviewed in 2022 that found 74% of Americans surveyed support the public funding of pro-life pregnancy centers after learning about their services. Forty-two percent of 1,600 likely voters said they strongly support the public funding of pro-life pregnancy centers, and an additional 32% said they somewhat support the idea. People value these pregnancy centers and what they offer to our communities and how they help women, Pritchard said. And so, I think it's a matter of people being more vocal in that support, in expressing their opposition to this extremism that we're seeing from Biden and the other Democrats. Home News Democrat Party omits Jimmy Carter in Presidents Day tweet as he passes 1 year in hospice care The Democrat Party's official handle on X, formerly known as Twitter, deleted a Presidents Day tweet that omitted 99-year-old former president Jimmy Carter, whose grandson says is still strong in spirit even after being in hospice for over a year. On Monday, conservative talk radio personality Jason Rantz retweeted a post by the official Democrats handle, which stated "Happy Presidents Day" and included images of living Democratic Presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, but not Carter. "In celebrating living Democrat presidents, the Democrat Party forgot Jimmy Carter," Rantz commented, with the Democrat Party tweet being deleted shortly afterward. 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 devout Baptist who was elected president in 1976 and served one term in office, Carter entered at-home hospice care in February 2023 after a series of hospital stays rather than continue treatments for cancer. Carter recently marked the one-year anniversary of when he entered into hospice care. "After a year in hospice, on a daily basis, we have no expectations for his body, but we know that his spirit is as strong as ever," stated Jason Carter, Jimmy Carter's grandson, on "CBS Sunday Morning." Over the weekend, the Carter family released a statement explaining that they are "grateful for the many expressions of love they have received and the continued respect for their privacy during this time." "The family is pleased that his decision last year to enter hospice care has sparked so many family discussions across the country on an important subject," the Carter family added. Last November, Carter's wife, Rosalynn, died at the age of 96, months after being diagnosed with dementia. The couple was married for 77 years, and she was known for her humanitarian work. A longtime Sunday school teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church, Carter left the Southern Baptist Convention in 2000 due to his objections over the denomination's views on women holding church leadership roles. "My grandfather, my father and I have always been Southern Baptists, and for 21 years, since the first political division took place in the Southern Baptist Convention, I have maintained that relationship. I feel I can no longer in good conscience do that," he stated at the time. Home News Episcopal Church-affiliated historically black university launches fund to preserve accreditation A historically African American university in North Carolina affiliated with The Episcopal Church has launched a fund aimed at helping to preserve its official accreditation. Saint Augustines University, which was chartered by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina in 1867 and is based in Raleigh, announced the launch of the Falcon Pride Initiative Fundraising Campaign earlier this month. The goal of the campaign, according to SAU, is to demonstrate financial solvency for preserving its accreditation by rallying the support of internal stakeholders, alums, friends, neighbors, and the [historically black colleges and universities] community. 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 campaign seeks to raise $5 million from supporters, coming in response to a decision by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to remove SAU from its membership. The Falcon Pride Initiative Fund represents our unwavering commitment to the future of Saint Augustines University, said SAU President Marcus H. Burgess, as quoted in the announcement. Our goal is to raise the necessary funds to preserve our accreditation and reassert our position as a leader in higher education. We fully dedicate ourselves to maintaining our accreditation and fostering an environment of academic excellence and opportunity for our students. Last December, the SACSCOC Board of Trustees voted at their annual meeting to remove SAU from its list of member academic institutions, with the university being put on probation during the appeal process. According to a document released in December, the SACSCOC explained that they voted to remove SAU from membership as an accredited institution due to financial concerns. Specifically, the board cited failure to comply with requirements centered on financial resources, financial documents and financial responsibility, among other stated reasons. The standards require a member academic institution to have a governing board that exercises fiduciary oversight of the institution and to have sound financial resources and a demonstrated, stable financial base to support the mission of the institution and the scope of its programs and services. In response to the December vote, SAU Board of Trustees Chairman James E.C. Perry stated that the university community will stop at nothing to ensure that SAU maintains its accreditation. We are experiencing one of the most important moments in the institutions history, Perry added. Our charge to everyone associated with the university is to comply with all policies and procedures, advance the institutions mission and vision, and work collectively to place SAU back in good standing with SACSCOC. The accreditation situation came as SAU was facing litigation from former President Christine Johnson McPhail, who filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission last December, accusing the institution of creating a hostile work environment. Home News Fans celebrate DJ Black Coffee accepting altar call after video goes viral Grammy Award-winning South African DJ Black Coffee is making international headlines after a video showing him responding to an altar call at a church service went viral. On Feb. 9, days before video of him accepting the altar call went viral, the 47 year old, whose real name is Nkosinathi Maphumulo, shared a message with fans on Instagram after he sustained injuries during a flight en route to Mar Del Plata, Argentina, where he was scheduled to perform a show. Thank you for respecting my privacy during an intimate and enlightening moment in my life. Ive taken this time to recover and take some much-needed time off at home, healing with my family by my side, he wrote. Its been rejuvenating on a handful of levels. I cant wait to be back on the dance floor with you all very, very soon. Im thankful to the merciful God for giving me yet another chance. 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 On Feb. 19, one commenter on X who responded to the DJ accepting the altar call wrote: "May the Good Lord Jesus Christ Fetch them One By One!" Others speculated that the recent spate of celebrities rededicating their lives to Christ or getting baptized (Kat Von D and Hulk Hogan, among others) might have something to do with the "end of days." While some expressed happiness about his re-dedication of faith, others expressed skepticism. Something weird is going on. Celebrities dedicating themselves to God on camera. I am not buying any of this. None!, said one X user. According to The Citizen, another person questioned why the personal nature and sensitivity of an altar call was broadcast on social media: Altar call was supposed to be a moment between him and God, yet someone saw it befitting to do this in that moment? ... People are celebrating a soul for God and you thought let me capture a celebrity? Strange behavior while in Spirit.'" In 1990, while he was part of a street party celebrating the release of Nelson Mandela from prison, a driver ran into Maphumulo and other pedestrians. The injury left him unable to use his left arm. In more recent years, Black Coffee has made headlines for his divorce, marital affairs, and an accusation of assault by his ex-wife, Enhle Mbali, which he denied. Home News Rob Reiner's 'God and Country' is a schizophrenic, partisan broadside against conservative Christians (review) Film suggests 'Christian nationalists' are thirsting for political violence "God and Country," the new documentary produced by archliberal Rob Reiner that hit theaters last week, is a partisan broadside that deceptively conflates so-called Christian nationalism with positions held by a large swath of conservative Christians. The premise of the film is schizophrenic, demonizing Christians with inflammatory insinuations that invoke the Third Reich, while at the same time deriding them for having a persecution complex because they fear a growing cultural hostility. Of the 18 expert talking heads recruited to opine on "the implications of Christian nationalism and how it distorts not only the constitutional republic, but Christianity itself," none are especially sympathetic to the movement, which is broadly defined in the film as "basically the idea that America was founded as a so-called Christian nation, and that our law should be based on the Bible." 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 By stringing together disjointed, out-of-context clips that lump together John MacArthur and Billy Graham with obvious charlatans and screeching fringe preachers, the filmmakers reveal either their profound ignorance or their cynical desire to assign the pejorative Christian nationalist label as widely as possible. Rob Boston, a senior adviser at Americans United for Separation of Church and State, at one point lists political positions common among conservative Christians to describe his idea of the Christian nationalism that supposedly poses such a danger to the republic. "Christian nationalists don't like feminism, they want to roll that back," he says. "They are appalled at the idea of LGBTQ rights; they want to roll those back. They do not like legal abortion, they want to end that in all 50 states. They do not like the idea that we have a secular public school system." Also rolled into the Christian nationalist movement are those who oppose Critical Race Theory and pornographic books in schools, as well as those Evangelicals who seek political change by mobilizing the electorate to vote for candidates who reflect their worldview. Entities like The Heritage Foundation, Turning Point USA and Hillsdale College that contribute to such an effort are maligned as "Christian nationalist organizations." The film suggests that adhering to conservative Christian views is bad enough, but any attempt at securing political representation to enact them is presumably dangerous and even idolatrous, evincing what Russell Moore describes as "a valorization of power itself." Former President Donald Trump, therefore, is the main villain of the documentary, who supposedly played on the racism and lust for power simmering in the Christian nationalist heart. His appearance prompts ominous music and tired accusations that Christians who support him have "abandoned their core principles." Though figures such as David French and Skye Jethani speak dismissively in the film of the concern many Christians feel regarding what they perceive as a rising tide of antipathy, "God and Country" will do little to allay such fears with its incendiary alarmism. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Ph.D., a professor of history and gender studies at Calvin University, wrings her hands over the "more muscular Jesus" and "warrior Christ" she claims has emerged among Evangelicals in recent years, laying the groundwork for Christian nationalists to believe political violence is acceptable. Moore likewise warns of "people who will translate spiritual warfare categories into literal political violence," and former pro-life activist Rob Schenck laments the pastors he knows who arm themselves during services. After implying that Christian nationalists are thirsting for bloodshed, the film draws a through line from Trump to Charlottesville to January 6, an event laid at the feet of Christian nationalism and presented as the most disastrous of its endeavors. Coming in a close second is the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a cause the movie spuriously claims was taken up by the Christian Right only because they failed in their original agenda of opposing school desegregation. The film goes on to dial the rhetoric up to a fever pitch by reflecting on how Christians in Germany allowed Adolf Hitler to assume power, insidiously implying that a parallel scenario is playing out among Christians who support the former president. "This threat of what I no longer even pretend is Evangelicalism this white religious nationalism may present one of the greatest dangers ever to our democratic experiment," Schenck says. "It's an ugly exercise to try to imagine what America might do as a fascist state." "Christian nationalism uses Christianity as a means to an end," says Moore. "That end being some form of authoritarianism." As the film concludes, voices use religious language to admonish the audience regarding what it means to be a true Christian in the political realm, making clear that they are not free of the Evangelical impulse they scorn. "The biggest sin, if you will, of Christian nationalism, is that it sees pluralism as a weakness, and not what it is: the foundation of what it means to be American," says Reza Aslan, who abandoned Christianity for Islam and once proved his own radical devotion to multiculturalism by eating a cooked human brain with a fringe Hindu sect on CNN. "Everywhere you look, when the church has been at its best, it protects people regardless of their race, their creed, and their sexuality," minister and progressive social activist William Barber II says amid footage of a pride parade in the closing scene. The clear takeaway is that for many on the Left, Christian nationalism is simply any form of Christianity that seeks political representation without first bowing the knee to their progressive orthodoxy. Many factions vie for their place in the rough-and-tumble of the public square, but conservative Christians seem to be the only ones expected to give up the battle, even by those within their own ranks. Home News IVF embryos are protected children under state law, Alabama Supreme Court rules The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that embryos created through in vitro fertilization and kept frozen are protected by state law, overturning a lower court decision. In a decision released last Friday in the case of James LePage and Emily LePage, et al v. The Center for Reproductive Medicine, the high court determined that frozen embryos were protected by Alabama's Wrongful Death of a Minor Act. Associate Justice Jay Mitchell authored the majority opinion, concluding that "the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location." 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 "All parties to these cases, like all members of this Court, agree that an unborn child is a genetically unique human being whose life begins at fertilization and ends at death," wrote Mitchell. "The question on which the parties disagree is whether there exists an unwritten exception to that rule for unborn children who are not physically located 'in utero' that is, inside a biological uterus at the time they are killed." Mitchell wrote that the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, first enacted in 1872, "applies to all children, born and unborn, without limitation" and that it was "not the role of this Court to craft a new limitation based on our own view of what is or is not wise public policy." Associate Justice William B. Sellers authored an opinion that concurred in part and dissented in part to the majority, arguing that the claim that a frozen embryo was tantamount to a baby in the womb was "clearly contrary to the intent of the legislature." "To equate an embryo stored in a specialized freezer with a fetus inside of a mother is engaging in an exercise of result-oriented, intellectual sophistry, which I am unwilling to entertain," wrote Sellers. "Should the legislature wish to include in vitro embryos in the definition of 'minor child,' it may easily do so. Absent any specific legislative directive, however, we should not read more into a legislative act than the legislature did so itself. Thus, as to the majority opinion's conclusion regarding the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, I respectfully dissent." Pro-life activists like Lila Rose, who serves as founder and president of the group Live Action, celebrated the Alabama Supreme Court decision as a victory for life. "Proud of the Alabama Supreme Court for acknowledging the science and using basic reason and fairness to decide that a baby conceived via IVF should have the same legal protections as a baby conceived naturally," she tweeted Tuesday. Pro-choice advocates like Ruth Marcus, associate editor and columnist with The Washington Post, denounced the decision as "dangerous on two levels." "The imminent danger is to the availability of IVF in Alabama. As the clinic and the Alabama Medical Association argued, if embryos are unborn children protected by the wrongful-death law, creating and storing embryos will be unduly risky," wrote Marcus. "The longer-term danger indeed the apparent longer-term goal is to raise and expand the definition of unborn personhood, to go after birth control methods and reproductive technologies that involve fertilized eggs. Will fertility clinics be permitted to dispose of unused frozen embryos? Could states prohibit in vitro fertilization altogether? Will IUDs, birth control pills or the morning-after pill be banned?" According to a 2021 survey of over 5,500 biologists from more than 1,000 different academic institutions, 96% of respondents believed that human life "begins at fertilization." Home News NHS trust says milk from men 'comparable' to women's breast milk for babies A National Health Service trust in the United Kingdom defended the practice of men who identify as female breastfeeding babies by using drugs to induce lactation, claiming that the milk from men is as healthy for babies as breast milk from a woman. In a leaked letter, Dr. Rachel James, the medical director of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, explained how trans-identifying biological men take medication that can simulate breastfeeding. According to The Times, the conservative group Policy Exchange disclosed the letter after it was sent in August to Children of Transitioners after the group complained about the Trust's policies. As The Daily Mail initially reported Saturday, the University Hospitals Sussex Trust is a member of the pro-LGBT group Stonewall's diversity champions program and was the first NHS trust to use language such as "chestfeeding" and "birthing parent" for its maternity services. 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 the leaked letter, James referred to "human milk" as the "ideal food for infants," adding that the term is meant to be "neutral" and not "gender-biased." "Medications are sometimes used to induce lactation, similar to the natural hormones which encourage lactation to develop when the baby is newly born although occasionally some people are able to induce lactation without hormonal treatment," James wrote. "The evidence which is available demonstrates that the milk is comparable to that produced following the birth of a baby." The trust cited several studies to support its assertions, including a 2022 study that found an infant who received "milk testosterone concentrations" under 1% had "no observable side effects." Researchers acknowledged in the report that the study was the first of its kind, highlighting the "limited safety data regarding use of testosterone during lactation." The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment. In a statement published by The Daily Mail, the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust stands by "the facts of the letter and the cited evidence supporting them." In response to the letter, Labour MP Rosie Duffield accused the NHS trust of using babies as "guinea pigs for someone else's lifestyle choice." Duffield also expressed concern regarding the "ethics of untested chemicals in children." "When a man has not and cannot grow a baby, why on earth are we pandering to this?" she asked in an interview with The Daily Mail. "Who does it benefit? Not the children. We wouldn't do any other medical experiments on babies. Breast milk made by a baby's biological mother is tailor-made for that baby." The leaked document also prompted a response from Katy Faust, the founder of Them Before Us, a nonprofit that advocates for a child's right to a mother and father. In a Sunday X post, Faust wrote: "Children [are] forced to sacrifice their legitimate nutritional needs to validate a man's identity." A similar discussion occurred last summer in the United States after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published advice for trans-identified and non-binary individuals on how to breastfeed their infants. The CDC referred to this action as "chestfeeding." "An individual does not need to have given birth to breastfeed or chestfeed," the CDC website states. "Some families may have other preferred terminology for how they feed their babies, such as nursing, chestfeeding, or bodyfeeding." Another section on the CDC's website stated that trans individuals who underwent surgery to remove their breasts can still breastfeed or "chestfeed" an infant. The health agency noted that families in these cases may need help "suppressing lactation" if they have "chosen not to breastfeed or chestfeed." In a July statement, U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, who delivered over 5,000 babies during his time as an OB-GYN, declared that the CDC's advice on "chestfeeding" was "irresponsible" and "defies science and safety." "In my opinion, the CDC has lost all credibility and is in direct conflict with the FDA for marketing a non-FDA approved drug," Marshall said. "A biological male filled with hormones and a concoction of other drugs that have not been studied that could harm a baby should NEVER be encouraged." Home News Pastor saves worshipers life with Heimlich after she chokes on mint A Georgia pastor whose sermon on spiritual warfare at a revival service in Alabama was interrupted by an older adult congregant choking on a mint quickly responded by saving her life with the Heimlich maneuver last Thursday, and it was all caught on video. The pastor, Brandon Stewart of New Hope Fellowship Full Gospel Ministries in Taylorsville, was serving as a guest speaker at Mount Zion Church in Gordon, Alabama, when parishioner, Lois Adams, began coughing around 2 hours and 19 minutes into the service, according to a Facebook Live broadcast. As Stewart continues recounting his encounter with a demon-possessed young woman, a few congregants sitting at the front on the church moved to Adams aid and asked him to help her as she gasped for air. 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 Stewart quickly stepped in and applied the Heimlich maneuver to Adams, and once he was certain that she was OK, he declared, You aint going nowhere Ms. Lois. In an interview with WTVY, Stewart explained that he initially thought Adams was just wrestling with a cold or allergies. In the middle of the message and we were just kind of going, and we were getting ready to close, I heard coughing. I know its allergy season and colds were running around so I was like, it could be just that, he said. We were about to lay hands on her and heal her in the name of Jesus in a minute. Once he realized what was happening, Stewart knew exactly what he needed to do. I picked her up off the ground. We jump in and Pastor Derrick comes up because he is back up. Hes like, here we go. Hes a first responder also, and a great pastor of this church. And doing that once she was clear and could talk, we all made a joke, Stewart recalled. While she didnt explain what kind of mint she had in her mouth during the sermon, Adams said she was trying to keep her mouth from getting dry. I was praising the Lord like everybody else, but I had a piece of mint in my mouth because I get a dry mouth. I got choked on it, Adams said. I went to coughing and a little piece of it, [I] reckon, went down my throat and I couldnt breathe. Next thing I know somebody has me in the air. The disruption of the service didnt last very long. Members gave Adams water and in less than three minutes Stewart was back to his sermon. We dealt with that demon. That demon came out that night. You may think youve gone so deep into darkness that you cant come back, but you can. Jesus always pulls you back, he told the congregants as he urged them to keep reading Scripture. We did the business, now its time to get back to business, he told WTVY. Im honored and humbled that He used me in this position to be able to spread His Gospel and save Miss Lois. Home News Pastor says 'promptings of the Holy Spirit' saved him from KC Chiefs parade shooting A Kansas City-area pastor claims the Holy Spirit prompted him to leave the Chiefs' Super Bowl parade last Wednesday, which might have saved him and his family from being hurt when shots broke out, killing one person and injuring 22 others. The pastor of River Church Family in Raytown, Missouri, Timmy Hensel said in an interview with CBN News that he and his family attended the rally outside Union Station to celebrate the Chiefs' victory over the San Francisco 49ers that previous Sunday. "We were sitting there and listening to the rally go on [and were] super excited to be celebrating, feeling just this community, camaraderie, and joy," said Hensel, who is also the Central Southeast Regional pastor for the Foursquare Church. 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 pastor said he and his family began to have a strange feeling inside. Just minutes before bullets were fired, they felt a nudging of the Holy Spirit telling them to leave the event. "We just get this prompting that it's time to leave, like before our favorite players [were] about to speak," Hensel said. "I'm like, 'We're here. This doesn't happen very often,'" he continued as he choked up with emotions during the interview. He said he and his wife, Tisha, encountered the same inner desire urging them to leave. His wife began asking if it was time for the family to leave the event. "[We] just felt that sense to go and so we started walking back," Hensel said. "And, all of a sudden, in a little bit, we're getting texts, 'Are you OK?'" Hensel said he later looked at aerial shots and saw blood on the ground where had been standing. He said he is grateful for the "promptings of the Holy Spirit" and his ability to "recognize [God's] voice and tone." "It's not just Sunday," Hensel said. "It's every moment. ... He is speaking all the time and [we need] to train ourselves to know the tone of the Shepherd's voice, to know that He is speaking, He is guiding, and I'm really grateful for that." "I would encourage others to practice listening. We do a lot of talking. We do a lot of praying, which is good, but listening is just as important, because He has something to say," he continued. Since that day, Hensel said he not only thanks God for keeping him and his family safe, but he has also pleaded with God on behalf of others who were victims of the incident and others who may experience trauma. "We were there for a joint celebration, and my city is hurting right now," he said. "They're scared and angry, and [asking], 'Why do things like this keep happening?" On Tuesday, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said that two male adults, Dominic Miller and Lyndell Mays, have been charged in connection with the shooting, which resulted in the death of local radio host Lisa Lopez-Galvan. The prosecutor said Lopez-Galvan was struck by a bullet from Miller's gun. During a news conference Tuesday, Baker said Mays got into a "verbal argument" with someone he had not previously known. When Mays pulled out his weapon, investigators said others pulled out their firearms, including Miller. Both men sustained injuries in the shooting. Two juveniles were also taken into custody for gun charges. Home News SBC disfellowships 4 more churches, including 2 that support women pastors The Southern Baptist Convention has disfellowshiped four more churches deemed not to be in friendly cooperation with the denomination's regulations, including one for having a female senior pastor and another that allows women in church leadership. The two other churches were ousted for issues related to sexual abuse and the retention of a "biblically disqualified" pastor. Acting on the recommendations of the SBC Credentials Committee, the Executive Committee of the nation's largest Protestant denomination voted in Nashville on Tuesday to remove Immanuel Baptist Church in Paducah, Kentucky, from fellowship, reports the SBC's official news service Baptist Press. 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 church, which hired Rev. Katie McKown as its senior pastor in 2023, was deemed to have a "faith and practice that does not closely identify with the Conventions adopted statement of faith, as demonstrated by the church having a female lead pastor functioning in the office of pastor." New Hope Baptist Church in Gastonia, North Carolina, was formally disfellowshipped over a "lack of reported financial participation for at least the last five (5) years and its lack of intent to cooperate to resolve a question of faith and practice." Although the church doesn't list any females as part of its pastoral staff, New Hope's website states, "We believe in equality in ministry and we do not discriminate between genders." "There are more than 250 Baptist churches in Gaston County and New Hope Baptist Church is one of four churches that ordain women into ministry as deacons and pastors," the church website explains. "We believe in equality in ministry, and we do not discriminate between genders. We want our children growing up knowing that there is neither 'Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for we are all one in Christ Jesus' (Galatians 3:28)." Grove Road Baptist Church in Greenville, South Carolina, and West Hendersonville Baptist Church in Hendersonville, North Carolina, were both disfellowshipped in connection with concerns related to sexual abuse. The SBC EC said in a statement that Grove Road Baptist followed "a lack of intent to cooperate in resolving a concern regarding the pastor's mishandling of an allegation of sexual abuse." According to BP, Grove Road Baptist is a congregation of about 20 people, which averaged 12 people in Sunday worship in 2021. The church is led by Pastor Terry Greene. West Hendersonville Baptist Church is accused of acting "inconsistent with the Conventions beliefs regarding sexual abuse" by retaining Pastor Jerry Mullinax, who the Credentials Committee contends has been "biblically disqualified." He was hired in 2020 on a part-time basis, BP notes, adding that his teaching license was revoked in 2004 for sending "improper emails" to a student. Reacting to the SBC's decision Tuesday, Immanuel Baptist Church defended its decision to call McKown as senior pastor. "Today we learned the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) removed Immanuel Baptist Church (Immanuel) from membership because we called Reverend Katie McKown in February 2023 to serve as Immanuel's Senior Minister," the church said in a statement on Facebook. "The life of Immanuel is informed by the Baptist tenets of the autonomy of the church and the priesthood of all believers. We share our affirmation and support of the decision to call Rev. Katie McKown to serve with and among us," the statement continued. "We pray the SBC may be blessed with wisdom and discernment as it moves forward." Brandon McKoy, New Hope Baptist Church's senior pastor, told BP that he believed the church had already been disfellowshipped long before the Credentials Committee sent his team an inquiry letter. "We haven't considered ourselves Southern Baptist since really Southern Baptists started removing women from the pulpit," McKoy said. "We haven't been Southern Baptist for a long, long time." Since the revamping of the SBC Credentials Committee in June 2019, a total of 18 churches have been disfellowshipped, according to The Tennessean. A year ago, the denomination expelled Saddleback Church, one of America's largest churches previously led by popular Pastor Rick Warren, and four others. Saddleback had hired Stacie Wood to serve as the congregation's teaching pastor. During SBC's 2023 Annual Meeting, messengers advanced a resolution that would prevent women from serving as a "pastor of any kind" as the denomination was brought one step closer to solidifying the rule as a constitutional amendment. About 80% of the 12,000 messengers approved the resolution to establish a condition for churches to affiliate with SBC that no woman may be permitted to hold the title of pastor. To enshrine the resolution into the SBC constitution, the measure must pass at the 2024 SBC Annual Meeting. After Saddleback Church ordained three women pastors in 2021, Chuck Kelley, Al Mohler and Richard Land, theologians who wrote the study guide for the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message Confession, published a statement clarifying the definition of the word "pastor," which they say means "one who fulfills the pastoral office and carries out the pastor's functions." They wrote that Article VI of The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 states that the office of pastor is "limited to men as qualified by Scripture." Mohler, the president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, believes hiring women as pastors violates Scripture. "This is no longer a point of tension and debate. These moves represent an attempt to redefine and reformulate the convictional foundation of Southern Baptist faith and cooperative ministry," Mohler said. "The theological issues have not changed since the year 2000 when Southern Baptists spoke clearly and precisely in the Baptist Faith & Message. More importantly, the Holy Scriptures have not changed and cannot change." Home Opinion Finding intellectual fulfillment: Christian faith vs. atheism Part of intellectual fulfillment is the exercise of unfettered curiosity. Also, wonder can provide inclinations that should make one think freely. Christian faith provides wonder that continues to draw people into conversation. Atheism also experiences wonder but compels itself to think about it within strictly material references. Its curiosity is thus limited to a strict methodology or even undermined altogether. Can such a thinking approach achieve ultimate intellectual fulfillment? I am convinced that personally knowing God achieves intellectual fulfillment, whereas atheism is intellectually trapped. Look at the starry night, look at the precision of our solar system, look at the fascinating functions of our cells, and look at athletes excelling in their sport, these observations should create wonder in the minds of the curious. Ever wonder how the Earth can zoom around the Sun at 67,000 miles per hour while spinning around at 1,000 miles per hour, and its surface maintains the perfect level of gravity for constant human stability? Its utterly amazing. Ever wonder how an athlete can focus and run a flawless 100-meter hurdles with a speed of about 12 or 13 seconds? Its so elegant and inspirational. To answer that such phenomena are explained by materialism reveals not only intellectual smugness and a lack of wonder but also enormous incuriosity. 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 Richard Dawkins famously quipped that Darwin made it possible to be an intellectually fulfilled atheist. Does this mean that by material agencies Darwin accounted for all living organisms and so disbelief in God is justified? Even if a Darwinian world were true, how can matter alone generate curiosity, wonder, and reason toward intellectual fulfillment? If matter is what began life, and if matter is all that there is, or ever will be, curiosity, wonder and the experience of beauty cannot be calibrated. In materialism, then, how can the mind evaluate what is wonderful, beautiful, and appreciate remarkable achievements? Even if a curious atheist would ask these questions, there can be no fulfilling answers in a strictly material world. By extension, atheism cannot provide intellectual fulfillment. Our human experience contradicts the restricted thinking of materialism. The mind is always inclined to explore what is beyond the material, as attested to by the research scientists at SETI. Does this mean that adherents to atheism cannot be genuinely curious or experience wonder? Not at all. What it does mean is that such inclinations do not come from atheism. They come from a realm that evidently is other than material. A Christian also studies, comprehends, and engages with the realities of the material world, but claims that in Christ are hidden all the treasurers of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3). The experience of Gods grace opens up beauty and wonder about the material universe. The laws of science reveal magnificent structures of design, fine-tuning, and constants that are part of a cumulative warrant of His wisdom and knowledge. Likewise moral law and justice are part of lifes tapestry and take on profound meaning in a Christian worldview. Materialism cannot provide the objective reference of morality that we all experience. Christian faith thus provides a personal knowingness of the ultimate ground of our existence, thereby providing real intellectual fulfillment. Now if its true that God created us and the material world, and Christ the Savior can be personally known to reveal the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, wouldnt that be the ultimate in intellectual fulfillment? An open-minded thinker would have to agree that if the Christian faith were true, then the answer would be yes. If no, then why not loosen up and display curiosity about something that is evidently part of humanitys experience? Why insist adamantly that the material world only appears designed but is not actually designed? Why fabricate our moral order as something that emerged from cultural agreements? Why accuse Christians of embracing mythology? Why leave the intellect trapped in a material world? Atheisms main pushback is that with time and scientific methodologies we may discover what we do not know now, and so positing God is a gap filler (I have addressed this elsewhere). Nevertheless, if so, atheism reveals its intellectual dissatisfaction, for how can one make such concessions of ignorance and claim to be intellectually fulfilled? Now lets be frank here. Atheism is concerned with not conceding its autonomy to think and behave as it wishes. Do atheists experience inner convictions of transgression? Of course they do, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). So atheism must cleave to materialism and avoid any path that could lead to a personal surrender to God. This is whats really going on. Debates, contentions, denials, theories to support appearance, denouncements of actuality, and philosophical mumbo jumbo, are all intended to maintain freedom from God. Yet Christian faith remains compelling. A recent podcast noted that the most Googled questions are does life have a purpose and is Christianity true? People are dissatisfied and searching for fulfillment. Of utmost importance is for people to do justice to their own thinking by exercising curiosity and genuine open-mindedness; otherwise, the mind is not being used to its full potential. The Cross is a well-documented historical fact. There begins a wonderful journey that will satisfy a believers heart and intellect. The once famous former atheist, C. S. Lewis, articulated it this way: I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. This should resonate with all curiously minded people, and prompt genuine free-thinking towards real intellectual fulfillment. Home Opinion Pastors, dont tie your reputation to a political leader As leaders in the Body of Christ, nothing is more important than your personal testimony your hard-earned reputation for soundness in life, faith, and practice. You are a representative of Jesus in a formal and public way, with believers looking to you for guidance and unbelievers looking at you, scrutinizing you for godliness. Thats why it is so important that we dont hitch our wagons to political leaders lest their misbehavior tarnishes our reputations. And even if they dont misbehave if they dont lie or sell out or act in some duplicitous way if we become more associated with them than we are with the gospel, we dilute, if not destroy, our witness. Back in 2015, I endorsed Ted Cruz for president. I did this at the personal request of his father, Rafael, and I even brought a gospel-related message at a couple of his campaign stops in North Carolina. 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 But I quickly realized there was a price to pay for my endorsement, and not because of anything that Sen. Cruz had said or done. In that regard, he did not disappoint me. Rather, I was no longer seen as objective when talking about political candidates on my daily radio show or in writing. Instead, I was perceived as a Cruz guy and therefore biased. This compromised my ability to be an uncompromised, unbiased voice, which is an essential part of my own ministry calling. And thats why I quickly realized that I could never again endorse a political candidate. (Im not saying others cannot; Im simply relating my own experience here.) In the months that followed, I did make clear that I would be voting for Trump, explaining why I preferred his policies to those of Hillary Clinton. I also challenged Christian voters on the issues themselves, asking how they could cast a vote for someone who advocated for the legal slaughter of the unborn. But like a broken record (and to the perpetual consternation of Trump supporters), I added caveats regarding his behavior, making clear that I regretted some of his statements and actions. I also did my best to shout to the world at the top of my lungs, JESUS IS MY SAVIOR AND LORD, TO WHOM I OWE EVERYTHING AND FOR WHOM I LIVE AND WILL DIE. Then, in very small print (or softly and quietly when speaking), And Trump gets my vote for president. There could be no confusion between the two issues. We have one Savior and Lord who is infinitely higher than us. We have an endless stream of political leaders, all of whom are deeply flawed human beings, like the rest of us, and none of whom are worthy of our adoration. Theyre just people some better people than others, and some more gifted than others and nothing more. We cannot hitch our wagons to them. We cannot put our hopes in them. We cannot look to them to save our nation. And we dare not tie our personal testimonies to them. To do so is to risk defaming the Lord and degrading our high calling as representatives of Jesus. Its one thing for pastors and Christian leaders to educate their constituencies about candidates and issues. This is very important to do during election seasons, especially since our elections have massive implications for our day-to-day lives, not to mention for the fate of the world. The elections can affect whats taught in our childrens schools. They can affect whether a baby in the womb can be protected. They can affect how much money we bring home to feed our families. They can affect our national security. They can affect our religious liberties. Need I say more? Here in America, it is our sacred privilege to vote and to participate in the electoral process, and pastors and Christian leaders do well to equip their flocks to vote in the most informed and righteous ways possible. But, to repeat, as Christian leaders, we dare not hitch our reputations, our ministries, our churches, our denominations, or our organizations to a political candidate. The moment we do, we are guilty of mixing politics with faith, joining the perfect to the imperfect, and also risking the tarnishing of our own reputations in the process. Thats because every time that candidate speaks or acts, people will associate us with him (or her). If they say something stupid, we now have to answer for it. If they are vulgar or nasty or if theyre caught in a lie, that now reflects on us. And this means that the name of Jesus gets tarnished and our witness to the world becomes compromised. Nothing in this world and I mean nothing, from political power to boatloads of money to social media influence is worth that. Nothing. So, do not kiss the ring. Do not get seduced by the media spotlight. And do not let anything defile, degrade, or diminish you. As an old man of God used to urge me (citing the words of Jesus in Revelation 3:11), let no one steal your crown. Home Opinion Should we worry about Biden's, Trump's vision for America? "Where there is no vision, the people perish," says Proverbs 29:18. A more literal version reads that where there is no vision, the people (a nation or social group) "cast off restraint." We now have from Donald Trump and Joe Biden plenty of displays of their personal ambition in the current race for the White House, but a lack of comprehensive vision based on the most important of concerns. 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 Trump's MAGA is a vision of sorts, but blurred at the edges: Is the MAGA quest a reaction to contemporary attempts to re-order the world, a competitive response to China and other nations who see themselves potentially as the core of world order through military, technical, and other means of dominance? While Trump and Biden focus on the disability and ineptitude of the other in contrast to their own noble dreams and aspirations, vision for the nation is lacking in what may be the most dangerous moment in its history. Perhaps the avoidance of vision is because of what the presidential candidates themselves see and hesitate to discuss. Like the elder George Bush, perhaps they struggle with that "vision thing." Apparently, so do Trump and Biden. Or maybe Biden does have a national vision similar to that of a left-socialist state, a new version of Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society." Meanwhile, is Trump envisioning a Theodore Roosevelt big stick bully America? Are we electing the czar of a new socialist system or the potentate of a swaggering empire? We must understand how the two men see themselves, and each other. We need to know their grand visions before we cast our ballots so that we see what we are getting ourselves, our families, and our country into, especially in consideration of the literal words of Proverbs 29:18-19 that business about the citizens casting off "restraint." Chillingly, that word is from the Hebrew terms seen first in Genesis: "tohu-bohu," "formless and void." The term infers chaos and disintegration, incoherence of thought and expression. A perfect description of contemporary political and social displays. The Bible tells us that without a certain quality of vision, everything falls apart. Vision, as spoken here, means seeing things as they really are, bad as well as good, and the positive possibilities as well as negative threats and obstacles the whole dream rather than only the big-ticket illusion that could bring about the collapse of the whole nation. Most importantly, vision as described in the Bible sees and considers the transcendence of God and accountability to Him, otherwise, ambitious leaders view themselves as God. That is the most terrifying possibility of all. Tohu-bohu take over when God is ignored, and removed from the center, leaving only the fallen human being a finite ruler in charge. What do Trump and Biden really think about the Transcendent One and their relationship to Him? That is the most important question if we are to avoid the horrors of chaos. So, Joe Biden and Donald Trump, tell us your vision of the kind of nation you want to lead us to be in this perilous age and show by your lifestyle the way you see God in your role as leader. Lyle's Golden Syrup rebrand to drop biblical references Lyle's Golden Syrup is being rebranded to remove a reference to an Old Testament story. Traditional tin packaging for the much-loved baking product shows the picture of a dead lion surrounded by a swarm of bees in a reference to Judges 14 and the story of Samson and the lion. In the story, Samson kills the lion with his bare hands and later sees bees swarming around it making honey. He takes some of the honey and eats it. The design for the tins goes back nearly 150 years to founder Abram Lyle, who was a devout Christian. The image of the lion and bees was accompanied by part of a riddle containing the words, "Out of the strong came forth sweetness." The tins have been redesigned to show only a lion's head and remove the line from Lyle's riddle. They are being rolled out from this month. "Our fresh, contemporary design brings Lyle's into the modern day, appealing to the everyday British household while still feeling nostalgic and authentically Lyle's," said the company's brand director, James Whiteley. Helen Edwards, who teaches at London Business School, told the BBC the revised design would be less "exclusionary". "The story of it coming from religious belief could put the brand in an exclusionary space, especially if it was to go viral on X or TikTok," she said. Pakistani Christian sentenced to life in prison for blasphemy A judge sentenced a Christian to life in prison under Pakistan's blasphemy statutes for a social media message that relatives say was posted using a phone stolen from him, sources said. Fanson Shahid, 56, had been beaten in his home in Lahore when arrested in March 2022 and tortured into confessing after he was accused of posting a derogatory remark about the prophet of Islam in a comment on a post that another Christian had shared, his wife said. The phone on which the Facebook comment was made had been stolen from him in 2019, she said. Justice Zafar Yab Chadhar of the Additional Sessions Court Gujranwala District, Punjab Province, handed down the sentence on Jan. 24, but the family did not disclose it until now. "We were praying for Shahid's acquittal because he's innocent, but the verdict has shattered our hopes for justice," his sister, Sonia Shahid, told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Investigators found Fanson Shahid's Facebook account was logged on in the new phone they recovered in 2022 and presented that as evidence that he had made the comment. His wife, Safia Shahid, said at that time, "We believe that the lost phone was misused by someone to post the blasphemous comment, because my husband did not use a passcode for its security, and his Facebook account was also logged in." Fanson Shahid was convicted under Section 295-C of Pakistan's blasphemy statutes, which calls for a mandatory death sentence for derogatory comments about Muhammad, but Chadhar cited as a "mitigating circumstance" that the comment was posted "only once." "If a single doubt or ground is available creating reasonable doubt in the mind of the court/judge to award even death penalty or life imprisonment, it would be sufficient circumstance to adopt alternative course by awarding life imprisonment instead of death sentence," Chadhar wrote in the verdict. He also handed Fanson Shahid a fine of 100,000 rupees (USD 358). Shahid was also convicted under Section 295-A, which prohibits hurting religious sentiments, and sentenced to three years in prison. He was also convicted under Section 153-A, which prohibits causing communal unrest, and sentenced to one year in prison and a fine of 50,000 rupees (USD 179). The judge also sentenced Shahid to three years in prison under Section 11 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which prohibits promoting religious hatred on social media. The sentences are to run concurrently, the court's verdict stated. Sonia Shahid said the verdict shocked the family, members of the Full Gospel Assemblies church. Fanson Shahid has two children, and his family has been forced to relocate from their house due to fears for their security. Prominent Christian lawyer Lazar Allah Rakha said the verdict showed the court had disregarded the defense's arguments without giving a reason for doing so. "Moreover, there are glaring contradictions in the statements of the prosecution witnesses which discredit the entire prosecution evidence," Rakha told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. "The court blindly relied on the prosecution's evidence instead of viewing both the prosecution and defense's versions." Rakha said Shahid was entitled to acquittal as prosecutors failed to prove their case without any shadow of doubt. Sonia Shahid said the family was scrambling for support to file an appeal in the Lahore High Court. The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the verdict, and with less than a week left to submit it, the family has yet to find able legal representation. Fanson Shahid worked as a purchase officer at Pakistan Railways in Lahore and was due to retire in eight years when he was arrested on blasphemy charges in 2022. 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. 2024 Christian Daily International-Morning Star News 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 The National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) has moved its London office into NCVOs Society Building near Kings Cross station. NLCF has downsized from its previous London office in Westminster, where it had been based since moving from Plough Place near Chancery Lane after a 20-year stint in 2021. Its new building is smaller and will ensure a substantial saving on annual lease costs for our organisation, an NLCF spokesperson told Civil Society. The grantmaker said it wanted to reduce its carbon footprint with the move, stating in its most recent accounts that occupancy rates in its offices had remained low as its staff continued to work from home. NLCF also said it hoped to embed its London office, which it will share with Bond, Refugee Action and the Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales, within the voluntary sector. The funders Birmingham office, located in Apex House, Edgbaston is its registered address and central base. Aim for net zero by 2030 NLCF chief executive David Knott said the London office move will help it to achieve its mission of becoming net zero by 2030. He said that NLCFs values align with those of NCVO, which has also been working to reduce its environmental impact by energy and waste reduction. Knott said: We will continue to prioritise flexible working, allowing our teams the chance to come together and connect while prioritising the ways in which we can continue reducing our footprint further. NLCF has reduced its carbon footprint by 52% since 2020, Knott said. Sarah Vibert, chief executive of umbrella body NCVO, said: Were delighted that NLCF has joined the other amazing organisations working in our voluntary sector hub at Society Building. "We work hard to support and foster greater collaboration and partnership across the voluntary sector, so its fantastic to hear about the steps the National Lottery Community Fund is taking to get closer and more responsive to communities. Were also very proud of the fact that our commitment to sustainability at Society Building is helping others to achieve their goals. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Civil Society Media has published its latest podcast, an interview with Arthritis Action interim CEO Noha Al Afifi. Al Afifi offered some key insights for charity professionals around impact measurements, investing for long term growth and using emotion in fundraising campaigns. You can listen to the interview here: An AI-generated transcript is available to read below: Transcript 0:00 Rob Preston: Hello and welcome to another podcast from Civil Society Media. Today's show is an Elevate fundraising conference special. Featuring an interview with Arthritis Action interim CEO Noha Al Afifi. For those of you unaware, Elevate is a new one-day charity, fundraising and technology events we're launching this year in London. Tickets are selling like hotcakes, but there are a few remaining at the time of recording and you can receive a discount if you buy one before 1 March. I enjoyed speaking to Noha very much. We talked about her career in marketing, communications and fundraising which began in her native Qatar before she moved to the UK in 2011. She offered some key insights for charity professionals around impact measurements, investing for long term growth and using emotion in fundraising campaigns. I hope you enjoy this one. And I'll speak to you again at the end. 0:52 Rob Preston: Alright, so Noha, great to speak to you. Thank you so much for speaking to us for this podcast. And it's great to have you speaking at our upcoming event. Elevate. Are you looking forward to the event? 1:07 Noha Al Afifi: Yeah, very much so. Exciting programme, and especially looking forward to my panel in the afternoon. Excellent. 1:13 Rob Preston: Okay. We'll talk a bit more about that later. But first of all, it'd be great to chat to you a bit about your professional background. So you've got a background in communications in marketing and PR. You've got various accolades in that time. And you worked in Doha in Qatar for a few years for many years before moving over to the UK. So first of all, I wanted to ask you, with your, considering your background in marketing and communications, how good do you think UK charities are generally at communications? 1:50 Noha Al Afifi: I think it varies. And they say this because charity is coming on sizes. And typically the challenge with smaller Charities is that they don't have as much resource and money to spend on comms campaigns and activities. You typically would have a part time comms person or someone who does various different activities, fundraising and comms professionals. But as the charities get larger, there is more opportunity to spend a bit more on kind of agency work and outsourcing comms or having a bigger comms team. And with that comes obviously a lot more capacity and creativity to do excellent campaigns. So I do think it varies personally. But also, I think there's a misconception that charities kind of skills within the charity sector are not basically as professional as the corporate world, and that we are lagging behind, but I don't think that's true. I think we have brilliant talent and the charity sector, it's just different priorities. And obviously, you're restricted with the resources and funding that you've got. 2:56 Rob Preston: Yeah, yeah, absolutely. Just going back to your background, so I mean, you were listed a few years ago, I think, in the PR Week UK Power book. How was that an accolade to have? And has that been useful for your career at all, personally, think 3:14 Noha Al Afifi: I think it's been brilliant, because it does give you that kind of rubber stamp that you're, you're you're actually good at what you do. But also, it's great, as part of expanding my networks, and I say this kind of in my capacity within my role, is that you get to attend lots of different events, you get to raise the profile for the organisation that you're representing, that opens doors with also the media journalists, it gives you that added kind of level of credibility. 3:44 Rob Preston: Yeah. Okay. So you previously worked in Doha in communications roles for various organisations the Qatar marine festival Organising Committee, the world Innovation Summit for health, New Horizons computer learning centres, and at Carnegie Mellon University. And then you moved to Arthritis Action in the UK in 2015 as communications and marketing director. 4:16 Noha Al Afifi: 2015, but I did come to the UK in 2011. So my role with the World Innovation Summit for Health, was a partnership between Qatar Foundation and the Imperial College global health care team. So I did come to the UK around that time when I started working for Wish. So it was a nice hybrid role that had a mix between kind of policy influencing in the UK and globally, but I was based in the UK within the Imperial College healthcare team. 4:43 Rob Preston: Okay, how did you find that switch then moving to a different city? Were there sort of different rules that apply to how to work in communications and those two environments? 4:55 Noha Al Afifi: Yes and no, because that role was more focused on medium policy influencing, I would say the UK climate is a lot different from any other country really, because that role in particular was global in nature. So how you do things in the Middle East and influence government is a lot different from policy influencing activity in the UK, and also, in working directly with journalists and getting the message out. The processes are different, but I enjoyed it, because it was a varied role, and you get to experience different perspectives, you get to go to different governments in parliament and try to pitch your case and get support. 5:32 Rob Preston: Okay, interesting. And moving to the charity sector. So when you did join Arthritis Action, how was that? Did you always want to work in the charity sector? Was that something that you had always planned to do? 5:44 Noha Al Afifi: I always wanted to work for a healthcare organisation, non-profit or charity. So my next step from Wish was really actively looking for opportunities in a healthcare setting. So Arthritis Action was one of the options that was available to me, I wanted to look at all different health conditions, because my previous role looked at a variety of health conditions affecting people globally. Things like cancer, diabetes, affordable care, etc. So that felt like a natural transition from that room. 6:18 Rob Preston: Was there anything particular about arthritis in particular, that you that that made you think this is a cause you wanted to work on? 6:24 Noha Al Afifi: I mean, I'll be honest, it wasn't an obvious cause to me. And I knew that there would be challenges in relation to communication and fundraising. Because it's not, it wasn't at the time, one of the big health conditions in the UK in particular, it wasn't the big five. Right now, it is finally one of the major conditions within the major conditions strategy. But it wasn't the case eight or nine years ago. So I knew I would be facing a new challenge. And that was a big part of my motivation for wanting to work with Arthritis Action is actually taking on a new challenge and trying to cut through the noise and trying to increase understanding of a condition that a lot of people dismiss as an older person's disease. So I liked that challenge. 7:09 Rob Preston: Okay, that's interesting. Yeah. And so the roles are really sorry, initially, you were marketing communications director, but then you moved into overseeing the fundraising department as well. How was that as a switch? And was fundraising something you thought about previously? Or did the opportunity just kind of present itself while you were at the charity? 7:31 Noha Al Afifi: So, yes, and no. Again, just going back to my previous role I transitioned from policy forms into partnerships, so especially corporate partnerships, and seeking sponsorships for the various activities that the initiative had organised. And I had great success. And I realised the reason behind that was because I applied all the skills that I've got all the writing of the copywriting, in particular, the pitching skills of putting proposals together, very similar to how you kind of sell a press release, you know, for a PR, different audience, but you still need that skill. You need to understand your audience and tailor approaches and the messaging. And I thought, and I did really well in that role. So I felt maybe I could do the same for Arthritis Action. We have had fundraisers that we managed, but we needed someone with more kind of a strategic look, how do we bring it all together? And that's a skill that I had as well. So that's how the transition really happened into looking at different income streams and tying that into comms activity, so the teams could work hand in hand, you can't have a good fundraising campaign without the columns and the narrative, a strong narrative behind it. 8:46 Rob Preston: Do you think it's really important for charities to have those different functions working kind of in sync with each other? I suppose with Arthritis Action, it's relatively small or medium-sized charity. So perhaps at really big charities there, they work with a bit more separately. 9:02 Noha Al Afifi: Exactly. But I think because we're smaller, as you say, the fundraisers lean on the comms team, to kind of put it's basically the language putting the right language together to put a campaign together. And I will use an example later in our conversation where it was just, it was a nice exercise that brought them together to produce a fundraising campaign that's actually out there right now. 9:26 Rob Preston: Okay, great. Yeah. I look forward to hearing more about that. So you, one of the things you led on at or you have led on Arthritis Action is setting up the charities measurement and surface evaluation processes, which has led to its annual impact report that it does now. How important is measuring impact to your charity and charities in general? 9:49 Noha Al Afifi: I think it's fundamental that charities demonstrate the difference that they make with their audiences and kind of society as a whole and their service users for many reasons, a) it increases credibility, you can't be saying we're doing amazing things without showing it. I think for funding, it's vital. Because if you're not able to demonstrate the difference you're making, then why would a funder consider giving you money, you need to make the case for funding, if something has worked really well, you need to measure and you need to track and you need to report that effectively. Also, I think linked to credibility is reputation. If you want to maintain a kind of high standard, and a really positive reputation amongst your audiences, need to routinely measure and report on impact. And I think a really obvious one is, you know, as charities, in particular, we have a responsibility towards our stakeholders. They're entrusting us with their money, so every penny counts. So I do think we have a responsibility towards everyone that we're here for, to show them where every penny has been spent. 11:02 Rob Preston: So it's obviously an important thing for charities to do from what you've said, but is it a challenging thing to implement? And are there some things that are quite difficult to measure, I suppose in terms of an outcome that a charity's achieved? 11:15 Noha Al Afifi: Yes. And also, the other challenge is, sometimes that requires money, investment into proper monitoring programmes, monitoring evaluation programmes. So I think we always have these chats in the office, I think, for qualitative outcomes, that that's easier. You can track how many people attended an event, or how many people listed the website. But actually, what's harder is what the behaviour change, what have people done, as a response to attending your event or going to your website. And that's a lot harder to measure. There are methods that can be deployed, we have done some of that, but again, we're cautious that some of that costs a lot of money if you want to do that regularly. So we preserve it for campaigns, or maybe bigger programmes. So for example, you could do perception surveys and awareness surveys and use a sample audience, right. And you could say, if it's an awareness raising activity, you could say, have you heard of Arthritis Action? And then you measure kind of the percentage and whether that's grown over time? Or how do you know what arthritis is? Or do you know, what age group impacts more, it's things like that. And you can measure kind of wider responses from your, from your audiences, basically consumer surveys, etc. So that sort of stuff you can you can get, but it requires more cost attached to it. So yes, I would say it's challenging to get into kind of the meaty outcomes sometimes, as opposed to kind of easier metrics and some simpler metrics. 13:01 Rob Preston: Have you seen an increase in kind of awareness of arthritis in the time you've been there? And if you've been able to kind of report that in an effective way? 13:09 Noha Al Afifi: Yes. So that is one thing that we look at every two or three years, we do a YouGov survey. So that looks at the state of play, and the impact of arthritis on daily life. So we look at all sorts of things. But then there's an element that looks at charity brand awareness, and also arthritis awareness. So in terms of charity awareness, I think in 2018, it was 10% and up to 25%. In 2022. Wow. Okay. Yeah. So we were very pleased with that. So that's our benchmark now. So every two or three years, we'll be asking the same question, obviously, wouldn't be the same people, but it's the same sample size, so about 2500 people. 13:56 Rob Preston: And you mentioned that, when you ask people for money, sort of how can you do that without showing the outcomes that you have? Have you received feedback from either individual donors or corporates? Or institutional funders who've said, Oh, it's, it's great that you've got this impact report. It gives us confidence that we're giving you money and you're doing something useful with it. 14:18 Noha Al Afifi: 100%, we've heard that from partners, we've heard that from kind of trust funders as well. And I think and they do regularly request it, especially not just the impact report, kind of a report of following on from the completion of a project as well as the more detailed stuff as well. 14:40 Rob Preston: Excellent, OK. So you became the interim CEO at Arthritis Action in November. How has it been so far in the first few months? How have you found the step up? And has it been an interesting journey, I suppose from being a comms person originally and kind of writing, perhaps, scripts and things for spokespeople and then sort of being the spokesperson yourself now. 15:06 Noha Al Afifi: It's very different from my previous role. And I think that that's exciting. But also it comes with a set of challenges. So the exciting bit for me has always been the external facing activity, raising profile networking, with government, networking with partners, corporate funders, etc, and that's still part of my role. And I very much still enjoy that. I think that the challenges are associated with being responsible for more areas across the business. So it's not just fundraising communications. Now, I'm responsible for finance for operations for service delivery, obviously, on an exec level, but I didn't have that in my previous role. So there's a bit of a learning curve there. But kind of going back to your earlier points on measurement and impact measurement, that's something that I've set up. So I always had some sort of oversight on how well we're doing across all areas. But for me, it's managing those functions as well, that that that's new to me, but it's great, I think the other challenging elements, which is no surprises governance, so navigating that we have five new trustees, and, and they only joined two months ago, three months ago. And we've got, right now we've got nine board members, so the majority are new. So it's about just, yeah, understanding more about the board expectations from the chief exec. I'm a board member for two different organisations, so national voices and CIP er, but I've ever been on the other side, if that makes sense. So that's a learning curve for me as well. 16:40 Rob Preston: Has it changed your perspective as a trustee at those other organisations. Now, you've seen it from the chief execs point of view? Noha Al Afifi: 100%. Yes. Rob Preston: Well, it sounds like you've been enjoying it. I don't know if you'll be able to comment on this. But it's are you thinking about trying to be the permanent CEO? Are there any plans for that at all? In your future? 16:59 Noha Al Afifi: No, I'm happy to talk about that. So it's interim, because the substantive CEO is on maternity leave. So depends on what she decides to do. Closer to the time, I think the plan for her is probably around December time to return. So it will all depend on what she would like to do next. In terms of me, I think it's early days, so far, I'm enjoying it, there is challenge, but it might I might have a better idea closer to that time anyway, whether this is something I would permanently like to do or, you know, go back to the income generation comms activity, which I very much enjoy. 17:38 Rob Preston: Excellent. Okay. Great. So let's talk a bit about Elevate, our first ever Elevate Conference, which is taking place on the 20th of March. Yeah, so it's a tough time for fundraisers, would you say, are you looking forward to being able to address a lot of fundraisers in the room and to be able to kind of discuss some of the issues they might be facing? 18:03 Noha Al Afifi: 100%, I think we've gone from Covid to the cost-of-living crisis into a recession. It never gets easier. There are global wars, competing causes, there's a lot going on. And it's hard for a lot of fundraisers, to cut through the noise. Because there's, there's so much information out there. You know, I'm just looking from a consumer perspective, there's a lot going on, a lot of messaging going around. And I think if you don't have the loyalty from the donor side and the profile, it will be very difficult for many fundraisers at the moment. 18:45 Rob Preston: Absolutely. And your closing panel in which you're speaking is about using emotion in fundraising campaigns. And that's something that I think has perhaps changed in the last few years. Is that Is it a more difficult balance to strike now for charities? Because they don't want to be accused of shock tactics or poverty porn, as it's sometimes called, called, when they're appealing to supporters? And yet they also, I mean, now more than ever want to be able to generate that response from members of the public. So yeah, is it more of a challenge these days, would you say? 19:21 Noha Al Afifi: I think so. And I think it's because that tactic isn't new. You want to instil some sort of emotional response. I mean, that's how people react to things right and you want a positive reaction. Sometimes they may not be if it's such a sad image and sad messaging, and actually, it may not lead a person to support the organisation just might make them really sad. But I do think there's a lot of that at the moment, which is why I don't want to say people become numb to it, but they almost do, when they're surrounded by sad news all the time. You need to be really creative, I think, to get the message out, not rely on those tactics alone. I think that the shock element is important. And I'll give the example of our current fundraising and comms campaign. So Clear Channel has very kindly donated space for us all over the country, they've only started using the posters Monday, actually. And literally, it's all over the UK. And that, the messaging behind that is very simple. So we used human stories, so real people. And we thought we'd focus on younger people, because arthritis is always associated with older age. So we have a couple of young ambassadors who are in their 20s. And the one that's being used a lot more I can see is Tanya who is a 23-year-old. And the message is, I hadn't lived the day without pain since I was 12. It's a message and created that almost shock and surprise elements. Oh, you know, anyone thinking it's an older person's disease, probably, we would have changed that perception. And then there's like a very simple support message. So that's the theme of the of the campaign. And I think it's quite timely now. Because I will be presenting at Elevate. I do think it's about finding the right balance, and finding very simple messaging and trying to be innovative, and not repeating what everyone's seeing everywhere. 21:23 Rob Preston: Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. I was gonna ask you this earlier, but I will move back to it now. So you've, one of the things that are happening at your charity, and this does link to fundraising as you're making an investment in the fundraising side of Arthritis Action. So you're planning from your new strategy, you're planning to not see a return immediately, you're planning to see a deficit for the next few years. So how, how was that as a decision to make that we're actually we're going to, we're trying to invest in the long term now. At a difficult time for, the charity, and also to try and get the trustees, as you mentioned, working with trustees is a challenge as a CEO, how is it getting their buy-in? I suppose that, yeah, we need to, we need to look to the long term here. 22:17 Noha Al Afifi: What you've said, I think, with the board and kind of their support is vital in this and their understanding of the climate that we're working in. We have been traditionally relying on legacies for many years, I think they form two-thirds of our income. And they've always known, our board has always known that we need to diversify. Like I say fundraising is such a volatile area. And we can certainly rely on that year on year. So the decision on diversifying income was implemented or kind of decided upon a couple of years ago. The next three years are about honing in on the areas that we think will be the most lucrative and effective for us. And these are major donors, trusts, corporates and government funding. So we previously didn't seek or receive government funding, but because like I mentioned earlier, arthritis is now kind of part of the major condition strategy. Actually, government can prioritise some funding and allocated towards projects that help people with arthritis and bone and joint conditions. So that's a new kind of exciting opportunity for us that we finally have that avenue. So, all those areas are new to us. And that's why it's not an immediate solution. It's not medium term plans. We're making all the kind of the efforts now and the investments now so that we can see the full impact of that in the next two or three years. 23:55 Rob Preston: Yeah, that's interesting. Yeah. I mean, major donors are quite a big topic at the moment in the sector. I think we've seen government figures and, and members of the Charity Commission as well, talking about the need for philanthropy to kind of increase in this country. So yeah, that's quite significant potential avenue of fundraising for you. 24:17 Noha Al Afifi: And we have, you know, our boards, some of them are quite connected, in the City of London, and this is based in London. So we are talking about maybe regional approaches and networks. And then from there, hopefully, we can get into some major donor opportunities. 24:34 Rob Preston: Yeah, as they're less likely to be as keenly affected by the cost of living crisis, I suppose on their ability to donate. 24:43 Noha Al Afifi: Yeah, but what we are finding is they really need that personal connection to the cause. That's what we found has been the underlying kind of theme. For example, the Clear Channel partnership that came about because the person who's in charge of those programmes lives with arthritis. So we think that is the most effective approach into corporate or major donor funding. 25:07 Rob Preston: Okay, that's interesting. Well, thank you so much for speaking to us now. And it's just finally, I want to ask, are there any other further tips you could give to fundraisers or charity professionals listening to this? 25:22 Noha Al Afifi: I mean, there are some key things that might be useful, I think, to implement an effective fundraising campaign or get the message out there. I think finding your niche is really important. And for us, that was people who either have arthritis or are affected or have a family member. So it's not, I think, if the goal is public funding, or public understanding, that's too broad. And the reality is, there will be people who will be motivated or interested in particular topics more than others. So it's really about finding your niche, identifying the audiences, and really drilling down on who your main personas are. For different types of activity. I think that's really important as well. Keep the message simple. And do your research. I think it's important to and that, and I think, because a lot of the time, you know, charity workers are so busy in the day to day, you don't have the time to look at the researching companies or individuals or campaigns. But I think that is so useful to just allocate some time towards that, and trying to be creative and then implementing the activities. 26:33 Rob Preston: So, take a step back and do the research. Yeah. Excellent. Great, thank you so much. And it's so I'm really looking forward to hearing you talk at our Elevate conference very soon. 26:43 Noha Al Afifi: Thank you. I'm looking forward to it. 26:44 Rob Preston: Thank you for listening to this podcast episode and thank you to know her for being such a great guest. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe as we hope to do more later this year. Until then, I hope you stay safe and well. And thanks again for listening. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, New strike dates have been announced at the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), over an ongoing pay dispute. RSA workers went on strike in September last year, before taking further industrial action in October and November, after failing to negotiate pay terms. The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) this week announced that its members will take part in three further days of strike action on 26, 27, and 28 February outside RSA House, with timings yet to be announced. This comes as IWGB members are also asking members of the public, fellows of the RSA, politicians and universities not to attend RSA events or participate in research with the charity until their ongoing industrial dispute is resolved. Speakers including wildlife broadcaster Chris Packham and former Greece finance minister Yanis Varoufakis pulled out of engagements at the RSA earlier this month in support of the charitys staff. This week, actors union Equity announced a boycott in support of striking staff. Paul Fleming, general secratary , expressed unreserved solidarity with workers, and said Equity would continue attending as many protests and pickets as possible. Well continue to strike and #boycottRSA until were able to reach a resolution where @theRSAorg workers are paid fairly and treated with respect please join us outside RSA House next week! (timings tba) pic.twitter.com/vsBsGfWXWO RSA Union (@RsaUnion) February 20, 2024 An IWGB spokesperson said: Though RSA management claim publicly that negotiations with the union are ongoing, the reality of the situation is very different. We are still yet to hear when we can meet to resolve the dispute and there is still no serious pay offer on the table after a year of this dispute dragging on. We were disappointed that management chose not to avoid strike action next week by putting an offer on the table, and if all the RSA can muster up is paying lip service to potential future meetings that may or may not happen, or alluding to ongoing negotiations through vague online statements, then the RSA boycott and strike action will continue. The RSA told Civil Society it is having ongoing discussions this month to try to conciliate. In a statement published earlier in the month , the charity said: We have been in a period of negotiation with IWGB for the across-the-board pay award for this financial year for the group of staff they represent (the bargaining unit). We have not reached agreement at this stage. Our aim is to do the very best we can to support our staff team and their wellbeing, while at the same time ensuring the financial sustainability of the RSA both of which are essential to our success. We must comply too with our legal obligations as a charity. On the boycotts, a spokesperson for the charity said last week it was disappointed that a couple of speakers have pulled out of the events. Editor's Note: This article was updated with comment from IWGB and information from the RSA. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, A year ago, we wrote in this newsletter about the ongoing threat to journalists posed by Pegasus, a highly sophisticated spyware tool made by the Israeli cyber firm NSO Group. NSO has claimed that it sells its product to state actors only for the purposes of investigating crimes and preventing terrorism, but researchers have found that the software has also been used to covertly monitor journalists, activists, and politicians. Since we wrote a year ago, Pegasus has been detected on the cellphones of journalists in the Dominican Republic, India, Jordan, Armenia, and Togo. It was also placed on the phone of Galina Timchenko, the founder of the exiled Russian outlet Meduza, perhaps by an EU member state. In the same period, discussions around the regulation of Pegasus and similar spyware have intensified in some parts of the world. Earlier this month, the Biden administration announced a new policy that will restrict access to US visas for foreign individuals who are found to have misused commercial spyware. Such conduct, Antony Blinken, the secretary of state, said, threatens privacy and freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, and has been linked to arbitrary detentions, forced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings in the most egregious of cases. The Citizen Lab, a research center based in the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto, began tracking the use of NSO spyware against journalists and other civil-society actors after a discovery by senior researcher Bill Marczak in 2015. According to John Scott-Railton, a researcher in the lab who has been involved in the work, companies like NSO Group do not want to limit the sale of their product to the small number of democratic countries where enough oversight exists to ensure it is not leveraged to target dissidents. As a result, Scott-Railton said, the abuse problem is baked into the business model. Scott-Railton is optimistic about the recent steps taken by the Biden administration. But he wants others, including the European Union, to do more. Last week, I spoke with him about how the Citizen Lab discovers new infections, why regimes use spyware to target journalists, and the efforts to rein in the problem. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity. YTRG: Earlier this month, the Biden administration announced a policy that will impose visa restrictions on people who misuse commercial spyware. What impact do you think that will have on the viability of the sort of mercenary attacks that you investigate at the Citizen Lab? JSR: Its extremely welcome. For years, weve seen the US administration trying to pump the brakes on spyware proliferation. Theyve done this by focusing on companies using entity listings, which prevent US companies from doing business with a foreign company on the list. Theyve also used an executive order which prevents the federal government from doing business with companies engaged in bad behavior. This [new policy] focusing on individuals is like the third leg to this stool, and I think its critically important. Spyware companies often use corporate registrations and shell structures as flags of conveniencenot so different from an oil tanker in China using a flag of a landlocked nation. Corporate structures can fold up their tents and disappear overnight, but the people and their desires to see Disney World or have their kids go to a US college, those things remain constant. Also, if investors see this business as something that could potentially directly impact [their ability to get a US visa], I think that it will help chill the investment interest that has fueled the proliferation problem. Sign up for CJR 's daily email I remember when the Biden administration effectively blacklisted NSO Group in 2021. Did that have any noticeable impact on the proliferation of spyware? If we take a look at NSO Group, our reports had some effect on them. But the thing that really caused a precipitous drop in [the companys] debt valuation was the entity listing [by the US government], and that was the first sign that focusing on the financial underpinnings might make sense. Where I feel like more needs to happen is Europe, which has had more than its fair share of spyware scandals and still is struggling to do basic accountability work. Europe is the place for privacy protection and I am astonished by how little progress is happening there around accountability for spyware. This has a lot to do with the fact that the European Parliament is limited in talking about matters that states consider to be [questions of] national security, which is used as a fig leaf to cover a lot of abuses. The problem extends to the targeting of media in Europe. Access Now, in collaboration with the Citizen Lab, published a critical piece last year on the targeting of the director of a Russian independent media house whos based in Europe. I think that is really the tip of the iceberg of the problem. And if Europe doesnt deal with this, its going to become an increasingly less safe place to be a journalist. One thing that Im quite excited about is that in the last week, its become clear that the current Polish government is heading toward a serious national inquiry into the Pegasus spyware abuses that happened under the past government. Im quite optimistic about where that will take us. What about operating systems? Have they taken steps to prevent the abuse of spyware? Im excited about some of the steps that different device manufacturers and operating system developers have taken. Apple, for example, had been doing a cat-and-mouse game with technical control measures against spyware like Pegasus. When they would find [vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware], they would patch them. They also turned to the courts and sued NSO Group. But they did more than that. They also released lockdown mode, which [disables riskier features like message attachments and] has been incredibly impactful in blocking attacks. One of the other big things that Apple, Meta, and Google have been doing is notifying victims [when their devices have been targeted]. When I think about the big scandals that have started to lead toward accountability since late 2021, when Apple did its first round of notifications, that contribution is huge. Thailand, Poland, and so many more [countries] have had their governments bad behavior with spyware first detected through the receipt of those notifications. This shows that big tech companies are leaning on a holistic approach and the recognition that making a more secure device is not going to be enough to stop the spyware industry alone. And thats partly an indication of just how much interest and financial incentive there is to keep finding new holes in operating systems and new ways to hack people. The desire is always there. How does the Citizen Lab find out about individual cases where spyware is being misused? Our research was broadly driven two ways. One is through internet scale analysis: that there might be infections in a particular country, for example, and then we would go and start working with people in civil society who we suspect might be likely targets, like journalists, high-profile dissidents, and other government critics. The other way is people would come knocking on our digital door and say, Hey, I think somethings going on; maybe were being targeted. The notifications [that Apple and others send out] added a whole host of cases where people would see these things land and then they might come to usor to organizations like Access Now, Reporters Without Borders, and Amnesty Internationaland say, Hey, I got this notification. What does it mean? Should I be concerned? If you get such a notification, you should absolutely be concerned. This really changed the balance: the notifications mean that not every case has to be first surfaced through this incredibly long, ground-up search for victims. It really helps laser in on places where there may be bad things going on. It also imposes real costs on NSO Group in some other interesting ways. Of course this triggers our investigations and leads to public revelations. But also, if youre a customer of a company like NSO, your ability to keep your operations secret depends on every other customer not getting caught because the technology and infrastructure are shared across the whole customer base. If, say, Togo is a particularly reckless and abusive user and it gets caught, that discovery may lead to the winding up of everybody whos using that particular exploit, that particular version of Pegasus. And so it imposes this very dramatic cost that is directly related to the problems of proliferationif NSO wasnt selling to so many countries, they wouldnt get caught as much. The idea is that because theres a lot of attention to this, its less commercially viable, less appealing to customers. Mercenary spyware has been widely used to target journalists. Earlier this month, for example, Access Now published a paper on your collaborative investigation into a series of attacks on journalists in Jordan. What do malicious actors hope to achieve by targeting journalists in particular? Targeting journalists does a couple of things. Journalists seek out sources, even in the government, who are morally appalled by whats going on and are talking about it. It helps governments find the people who are criticalfind the anonymous voices, and bring consequences to them. The problem, though, goes beyond that. Weve seen extremely troubling cases in Mexico where family members of journalists get targeted for hacking after cartel assassinations, for example, and other cases where journalists [were found to have been targeted] before they were killed. This speaks broadly to the fact that the complete breakfast of threats is now going to include digital targeting, with potentially disastrous consequences. For most journalists, their phone is an extension of their hand. It shows who theyre talking to, what theyre talking about, where theyre going, the kinds of things theyre searching for. States will spend a lot of money to gain access to those things. Its also why we encourage any journalist thats doing high-risk work not only to be in touch with organizations that help them secure themselves, but to experiment with lockdown mode on iOS. It profoundly increases their security. As many societies slide toward authoritarianism, the role of journalists couldnt be more important. They may uncover facts that are threatening to autocratic regimes. Autocrats around the world live in fear of independent journalism. Have you seen any significant changes in how attacks unfold during your time working on this issue? When we first started looking into mercenary spyware on phones, it took us a long time to find the first cases. Now we seem to find them wherever we scratch. Were in a period of profound reckoning and accountability around the mercenary spyware industry. Were also in the heyday of spyware abuses. It means, at this point, that people doing journalism should consider themselves potential targets who need to take the same kind of steps that they would take if they were worried that a government were surveilling their physical meetings. Fortunately, over the past ten years, newsrooms have really come to see digital security as an important thing. The next step is personal device security and the protection of phones, which doesnt always get addressed by newsrooms, especially because many journalists use a mixture of personal and work devices in their reporting. Then there are freelancers and others who dont have the benefit of a big newsroom behind them, but who face the same threats, just with many fewer resources to mitigate them. Ive read that companies like NSO Group have gone to some extreme lengths to thwart your investigations. Can you tell me about that? In 2019, the Citizen Lab was targeted by [an intelligence agency called] Black Cube, according to reporting by Ronan Farrow in The New Yorker. They appear to have been seeking out information about our investigative work on NSO Group. We dont know for sure who commissioned Black Cube to do that but its pretty clear that their interest was focused around our work on NSO Group, trying to get secrets and trying to discredit us. After that report became public, it was clear that other entities that had done investigative work or represented spyware victims had also been targeted, either with NSOs Pegasus spyware themselves, or with this sort of shady, in-person, mercenary surveillance operation. I think what is very clear is that companies like NSO Group really dont want to be exposed to accountability and consequences. Thats why were in such an important moment, because various sectors, beyond just the familiar human-rights organizations and researchers and even tech companies, are recognizing that this is a problem. Thats why recent actions by the Biden administration have been so welcome. Other notable stories: New from CJR: Why Drill Rap Is a Form of Journalism Yona TR Golding is a CJR fellow. A surprisingly robust winter storm blanketed New York City with snow at the start of the long holiday weekend, leaving streets slippery and coated with powder and delaying air travel for the second time in a week. Residents of Brooklyn and Staten Island woke up Saturday to seven inches of snow, the citys sanitation department said, far more than the 2 inches (5 centimeters) forecast. By 10 a.m. some neighborhoods had logged more than 10 inches. Crews were out overnight to plow roads, while homeowners and landlords grabbed their shovels and salt spreaders to clear slippery sidewalks. Local officials urged people to be cautious or avoid travel if possible. Subways and commuter train service on the Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North and New Jersey Transit were reporting scattered delays. In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, snow totals in some areas exceeded 12 inches, a surprise, apparently, even to the National Weather Service. These are some serious snowfall rates! A heavy snow band has developed from Berks County and portions of the Lehigh Valley east to Raritan Bay. Weve received reports of 2 to 4 per hour snowfall rates with this band. Travel is discouraged tonight as roads become snow covered! https://t.co/A0QkOioL7f NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) February 17, 2024 The fast-moving storm came in from the US Midwest, meeting cold air already in place along the Mid-Atlantic region, dropping snow from Virginia to Connecticut, according to AccuWeather. It followed a larger and longer storm system early in the week that gave New York its first significant snowfall in two years. The storm also snarled travel plans for some hoping to get away for the long Presidents Day weekend. JFK had 185 flights delays as of early Saturday. Newark had more than 100 delays. Despite the slushy start, some sun is expected to peek out starting Saturday afternoon, but freezing overnight temperatures will lead to re-icing, AccuWeather said. Top photo: A resident walks a dog through a snow-covered park across the river from the lower Manhattan skyline, in Hoboken, New Jersey, on Saturday. Photographer: Gary Hershorn/Corbis News/Getty Images. Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Alfa Insurance, one of the largest property/casualty insurers in Alabama, did not discriminate against an employee with multiple sclerosis and did not violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, a federal appeals court affirmed. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals underlined a distinction between the ADA and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which requires that plaintiffs show only that a disability was a motivating factor in a workers termination, not the chief cause. If Congress intended to retain, clarify, or add the motivating-factor standard to the ADA, it could have simply added that language, like it did in its 1991 amendments to Title VII, appeals court Judge Frank Hull wrote for the three-judge panel last week. We presume this choice was intentional, and we decline to add language to the ADA that Congress chose not to include. Plaintiff Jennifer Akridge filed suit under the ADA in 2017, arguing that she was illicitly fired so that the self-insured Alfa could avoid paying medical treatment costs for her MS and severe migraines, which topped $10,000 a month. Alfa countered that Akridges work duties had been automated, her position was no longer needed, and the company had no direct knowledge of her medical costs, which were administered by BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama. The District Court for Middle Alabama sided with the insurance company and the 11th Circuit upheld the ruling. Akridge began work for Montgomery-based Alfa in 1989. Four years later, she was diagnosed with MS and migraines, the appeals court explained. But she kept working and by 2015, she was in Alfas auto insurance underwriting department, assisting agents to identify profitable policies. She also devised underwriting manuals, verified proof of insurance for lawsuits, assisted with rate filings and generally excelled at her job, the judges wrote. In one year, she estimated that she had reduced Alfas losses by $2 million. In the mid-2010s, Alfa began implementing and using the Guidewire software, which automated a number of company processes and is widely used in the industry today. Notably, it allowed agents and managers to access strategic underwriting information that Akridge had previously compiled, the court said. With the system, Alfa did not have enough spare responsibilities to keep Akridges position, P/C operations Vice President Beth Chancey testified. The new software also had cost the carrier almost twice what was expected as much as $160 million and the company needed to save money, the court explained. Akridge argued in the litigation that the carrier had told employees to see doctors only when necessary and that health care costs were rising. She acknowledged in court, however, that she did not know if a human resources officer was aware of her specific medical costs, but gave examples of times when company documents had highlighted some workers health coverage expenses. She also pointed to other employees in similar roles, who had no disabilities, but who were not terminated. The lower court found that Akridges comparisons were not similar enough to her situation: Some of the workers were in homeowners insurance underwriting, which was not as automated. She also failed to prove that Alfa officials knew of her large medical expenses. The appellate judges upheld the district courts summary judgment in favor of Alfa. The judges also noted that the Americans with Disabilities Act carries an imposing but-for causation standard: Plaintiffs must show that the adverse employment action would not have happened but for the workers disability. That standard was softened somewhat in 2008, when Congress amended the law to bar discrimination on the basis of disability instead of because of a disability. But the 11th Circuit concluded that the change in wording did not negate the ADAs but-for standard. The problem for Akridge is that the employee-friendly, motivating-factor standard does not apply to ADA claims, as this standard is drawn directly from the text of Title VII of the civil rights law, the circuit judges said. And when Congress added the motivating factor wording to the Civil Rights Act in 1991, it also amended the ADA but did not add that standard to the disabilities statute. The appeals court said that Akridge failed to show that Alfa officials had offered false information about the reasons for her termination, noting that she had worked there for many years with large health expenses before she was let go. Alfa also continued her COBRA coverage for nine months after her termination. Appellate Judge Nancy Abudu dissented slightly, writing that the ADA does, in fact, allow a motivating-factor standard, but Akridge had failed to meet even that hurdle. Congress, through the ADAs motivating factor standard, recognized the reality that many employees with disabilities facethat an employer may have or (may) manufacture multiple reasons to fire someone, but if one of those reasons is related to a persons disability, the employers behavior is unlawful, Abudu said. Nevertheless, Akridges ADA claim still cannot survive. Jeff Bezos attends at "The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power" World Premiere in August, 2022. Amazon founder and executive chairman Jeff Bezos unloaded more than 14 million shares of his company valued at roughly $2.4 billion, bringing the total sold since the start of the month to 50 million. The sales began late last week and continued through Tuesday, according to a securities filing. In total, Bezos sold 14,006,906 shares in the company for about $2.37 billion, the filing states. The sales were executed under a prearranged trading plan that Bezos adopted in November and disclosed earlier this month, which said he could sell up to 50 million Amazon shares before Jan. 31, 2025. Bezos sold about 12 million Amazon shares, worth approximately $2.03 billion, last week, in addition to another tranche of 12 million shares just days before. He unloaded another 12 million shares the week before that. Bezos hadn't sold Amazon's stock since May 2021, the year he stepped down as Amazon's CEO, prior to the latest flurry of sales. He gifted about $240 million worth of Amazon shares last year. Bezos' stock sales have accelerated since he announced last November he would leave Seattle and move to Miami, allowing him to be closer to fiancee Lauren Sanchez and his parents, as well as Blue Origin's operations. Clarification: This story has been updated to reflect that Bezos unloaded around $2.4 billion in stock Uber announced Tuesday that its Uber Eats business is partnering with Mitsubishi Electric and delivery robotics company Cartken to begin transporting food using self-driving robots in Japan. The sidewalk robot deliveries are set to start by the end of March in a select area of Tokyo, according to the companies. Uber Eats said Japan will be the first international site of its autonomous delivery operations, which have so far been limited to a few cities in the United States. Cartken was founded in Oakland, California, in 2019 by former Google employees. Its "Model C" robot, which uses artificial intelligence to navigate its surroundings and can approach human walking speed, will make up the fleet of robot couriers in Japan. Mitsubishi Electric will supervise the operations, the companies said. "This collaboration signifies a leap forward in redefining the future of food delivery, making it more accessible and sustainable to consumers in Japan," Anjali Jindal Naik, Cartken's cofounder and COO, said in a statement. The news out of Japan marks the latest joint effort by Uber Eats and Cartken, which already offer sidewalk robot deliveries in Miami and in Fairfax, Virginia. Uber Eats has also partnered with robotics companies Motional, Nuro and Serve Robotics to pilot autonomous deliveries in other U.S. cities. President Joe Biden and his administration are clearing $1.2 billion in student debt balances for 153,000 borrowers. Borrowers on the Saving on a Valuable Education income-driven repayment plan who originally took out $12,000 or less in loans at least 10 years ago have started being notified that their debt is forgiven, the administration announced Wednesday. "I hope this relief gives you a little more breathing room," the email from President Biden to qualifying borrowers reads. "I've heard from countless people who have told me that relieving the burden of their student loan debt will allow them to support themselves and their families, buy their first home, start a small business, and move forward with life plans they've put on hold." The SAVE plan rolled out in summer 2023, with the administration touting it as the "most affordable" repayment plan available to borrowers. The opportunity for low-balance borrowers to have their loans forgiven after 10 years of payments was initially slated to go into effect this upcoming summer, but the administration announced in January it would move that timeline up. Now, qualifying borrowers have started receiving emails notifying them their loans have been forgiven. "Congratulationsall or a portion of your federal student loans will be forgiven because you qualify for early loan forgiveness under my Administration's SAVE Plan," the emails read. Those affected do not need to take any additional steps to receive relief, the administration says. Next week, the Department of Education will begin contacting borrowers whose loans are eligible for forgiveness, but who have not enrolled in the SAVE plan yet. All borrowers on the SAVE plan are eligible to have their remaining balances forgiven after 20 years of repayment for undergraduate borrowers or 25 years for those with graduate school loans, regardless of how much they initially borrowed. Those who borrowed $12,000 or less only need to make payments for 10 years before becoming eligible for forgiveness on the SAVE plan, or an additional year for every $1,000 borrowed above $12,000. That means anyone who took out $21,000 or less in undergraduate loans can have their debt forgiven on a shorter timeline than the standard 20-year term. The Biden administration is announcing a series of actions on Wednesday to strengthen the cybersecurity of U.S. ports, the main point of entry for trade, which employ 31 million people and generate over $5.4 trillion for the U.S. economy. An executive order to be signed by President Biden will bolster maritime cybersecurity by making sure all critical port infrastructure that is owned and operated adheres to international and industry recognized safety regulations. In addition to port land infrastructure, the actions require reporting of maritime cyber attacks to Coast Guard Cyber Command. The Coast Guard, which helps to control the movement of vessels that could pose a threat to national security, will share reports with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and other government agencies covering specific regulated facilities and vessels. A new maritime security director will also be announced. "We are taking the cyber threat posed to critical infrastructure as a whole of department approach," a senior administration official explained to CNBC in a briefing ahead of the formal announcement. The Biden official said that the new Supply Chain Resilience Center, announced last November, will be included in efforts to enhance port security. In addition to the new rules and regulations, $20 billion will be used to strengthen U.S. port infrastructure through the Investing in America Agenda. "With over $5.4 trillion in economic activity and over 90% of overseas trade moved through our ports, a cyberattack could cause a cascading impact to both our domestic and global supply chains," the senior administration official said. One area of focus in the new port security actions is equipment that moves cargo containers off of vessels, known as remote ship-to-shore cranes. Senior administration officials cited data that estimates 80 percent of the cranes moving trade at U.S. ports are made in China and use Chinese software, leading to concern that the cranes could be used in Chinese surveillance. There are over 200 of these cranes, which include sophisticated sensors that could track container information. The Coast Guard has evaluated 92 of more than 200 cranes. These cranes have been a focus of debate among national security experts and port officials in recent years. In early 2023, U.S. defense officials said they were worried that Chinese ship-to-shore crane manufacturer Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. (ZPMC) could be used by Beijing as a possible spying tool, leading to more pressure on the administration from Capitol Hill. China said at the time that the concerns were "paranoia-driven." ZPMC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Over the long term, senior Biden administration officials said they would like to invest in the onshoring of port crane manufacturing. In its 2022 "Made and Moved in America: Cranes and U.S. Port Equipment Port Equipment Reshoring Initiative" report, the American Association of Port Authorities stated that the most dominant manufacturers of these cranes are based in China, Japan, Austria, Finland, and Germany. Senior administration officials say while China is one key threat covered by this executive order, criminal cybersecurity concerns are also a major factor, citing Japan's Port of Nagoya, which in July of last year was disrupted after a ransomware attack. A person walks past an unpainted Boeing 737-8 MAX parked at Renton Municipal Airport adjacent to Boeing's factory in Renton, Washington on January 25, 2024. Boeing is replacing the head of its 737 Max program less than two months after a panel blew out on one of the jet models during an Alaska Airlines flight, prompting a brief federal grounding of the aircraft type and heightened scrutiny of the plane maker's operations. The company's 737 program head, Ed Clark, is leaving the company, Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing's commercial airplane unit, said in memo to employees. Katie Ringgold will become president and general manager of the program and the company's Renton, Washington, site, Deal said. "I am announcing several leadership changes as we continue driving BCA's enhanced focus on ensuring that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. Our customers demand, and deserve, nothing less," Deal said. Boeing named Elizabeth Lund to a newly created position of senior vice president of quality for the commercial airplane unit, Deal said in the note. Lund will continue to report to him, it added. The leadership changes are effective immediately. "Ed departs with my, and our, deepest gratitude for his many significant contributions over nearly 18 years of dedicated service to Boeing," Deal said. The Jan. 5 accident aboard the Alaska Airlines flight is the latest crisis for Boeing that has been trying to find its footing after fatal crashes of its Boeing 737 Max 8 in 2018 and 2019 that killed all 346 people on board the flights. It is also the latest and most serious in a string of quality flaws on Boeing planes that have delayed deliveries to customers. A month after the Alaska Airlines flight, Boeing said misdrilled holes on some Max planes would delay handovers of the aircraft to airlines. CEOs including those of Alaska and United have publicly expressed frustration with Boeing as they await new planes to capitalize on a boom in post-pandemic travel. The door plug that blew out of the almost brand-new 737 Max 9 used for Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 has already brought increased scrutiny and restrictions from federal regulators. The bolts on that panel, which plugs an unused emergency exit, appeared not to be reinstalled before it was handed over to Alaska Airlines last year, a preliminary investigation from the National Transportation Safety Board found. The Federal Aviation Administration has said it's stepped up direct inspections of Boeing's Max production lines and said it would prohibit the manufacturer from increasing output until the agency is satisfied with its quality controls. As Boeing struggles to fix flaws along its production line, rival Airbus has ramped up both production and deliveries of new planes. Don't miss these stories from CNBC PRO: China is tightening regulatory restrictions on its rapidly booming quant trading industry, after freezing the accounts of a major player in the sector for three days in a rare crackdown. The stock exchanges of key financial hubs Shanghai and Shenzhen issued notices late Tuesday announcing they will deepen their scrutiny of market trades conducted by quant funds which use advanced computer-driven automated analysis and algorithms to catch opportunities in stocks and commodities especially of leveraged quantitative products, according to separate Google-translated statements. The bourses will strengthen and expand the scope of reporting of such trades and improve the monitoring standards for "abnormal" transactions. The Shenzhen stock exchange also noted that "quantitative trading, especially high-frequency trading, has obvious technical, information and speed advantages over small and medium-sized investors." The announcements come after both exchanges implemented a three-day trading ban on one of China's largest quant funds, Lingjun Investment, which the Shanghai bourse accused of "affecting the security of the Exchange's system or normal trading order" with a flurry of transactions executed between 09:30 a.m. and 09:31 a.m. local time, according to a Google-translated statement. The DOJ alleges that a high-ranking member of the Yakuza, Takeshi Ebisawa, was the central figure in a plot to funnel American weapons to ethnic militias in Myanmar in exchange for heroin and meth. Ebisawa is charged with narcotics importation, money laundering and conspiracy to acquire surface to air missiles. Federal prosecutors in New York on Wednesday said they charged a Japanese Yakuza leader with conspiring to traffic nuclear materials from Burma to other countries in the belief that they would be used by Iran to make a nuclear weapon. The accused gangster, Takeshi Ebisawa, "and his confederates showed samples of nuclear materials in Thailand" to an undercover agent from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration who was posing as a narcotics and weapons trafficker with access to an Iranian general, prosecutors said. "With the assistance of Thai authorities, the nuclear samples were seized and subsequently transferred to the custody of U.S. law enforcement," the U.S. Attorney's Office in Manhattan said in a statement announcing a superseding indictment against Ebisawa and another man. "A U.S. nuclear forensic laboratory later analyzed the samples and confirmed that the samples contain uranium and weapons-grade plutonium," the statement said. The indictment says that in September 2020, Ebisawa emailed the undercover DEA agent a letter in the name of a mining company offering to sell 50 metric tons of uranium and thorium for $6.85 million. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said, "It is impossible to overstate the seriousness of the conduct alleged in today's indictment." Williams said Ebisawa "brazenly trafficked" the nuclear material while believing it would be used to develop a nuclear weapons program." The top prosecutor also said that even as he tried to sell the nuclear materials, the Yakuza leader "also negotiated for the purchase of deadly weapons, including surface-to-air missiles," M60 machine guns, AK-47s and armor-piercing ammunition. Ford Super Duty trucks are seen at the Kentucky Truck assembly plant in Louisville, Kentucky, on April 27, 2023. Ford and a United Auto Workers local union, UAW Local 62, reached a tentative deal on Wednesday to avert a strike at the automaker's most profitable plant. The UAW had threatened that nearly 9,000 workers at Ford's Kentucky truck plant would strike on Friday if local union demands were not resolved. The UAW said Tuesday that the deal addresses local issues related to skilled trades, ergonomics and health and safety. Ford said in a statement that it was "pleased to have reached a tentative agreement." The Louisville plant is Ford's largest in terms of employment and revenue. Workers at the plant produce Ford Super Duty pickups as well as Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigator SUVs. Dozens of local contracts across the Big Three automakers Ford, General Motors and Stellantis remain in negotiations, according to the UAW. Local contracts differ from the national agreements that the UAW ratified in late 2023 and deal with plant-specific issues. CNBC's Michael Wayland contributed to this report. Don't miss these stories from CNBC PRO: China and the U.S. have a complicated economic relationship: competitive but codependent. But as tensions between Beijing and Washington rise, U.S. companies targeting China for future growth are facing strong headwinds. Just consider three core holdings in the portfolio: Apple , Starbucks , and Nvidia . All three companies maintain strong ties to the world's second-largest economy. Nvidia generates 21% of its overall revenue from Mainland China, while Apple gets 19%, and Starbucks 9%. More importantly, all view China's growing middle class as a still relatively untapped market for its products. And in the case of Apple, the place where most of its products are now made. But there's no denying the in-country competition is heating up a trend that has been intensified by the leaders of both countries. Trump-era export controls, tariffs on Chinese goods, and President Joe Biden's focus on tech, specifically restricting certain U.S. investment in Chinese entities like semiconductors and restricting the export of cutting-edge AI chips, have all contributed. Meanwhile, Xi Jinping, president of the People's Republic, continues to push for China's economic independence especially when it comes to tech. A sluggish economic recovery from the Covid pandemic lockdowns has also made local brands more attractive to deal-hungry consumers. Competition for the iPhone heats up For Apple, that has meant a more saturated smartphone market, with domestic players like Huawei spin-off Honor, Oppo and Vivo offering cheaper alternatives to its flagship iPhone. Sales for the iPhone dropped 30% year over year in early 2024, according to Jefferies last month. Sales for rivals such as Huawei have "remained much stronger," the analysts wrote. In Apple's December quarter , China was the weak spot, down 13% and coming in short of expectations. At the state level, media reports of Chinese government iPhone bans emerged last year. Although Chinese officials have denied these claims, the mega-cap stock shed a whopping $200 billion in market value amid a two-day sell-off in early September. Shares have since pared these losses. To be clear, Apple is still winning in China . The International Data Corporation (IDC) recently said that the iPhone captured a record market share of 17.3% in 2023, but Chinese providers are catching up fast. Honor, for example, came in an extremely close second at 17.1% last year. Apple management is adapting. That includes expanding its business into India, where it opened two retail stores last year. CEO Tim Cook previously told CNBC that the world's most populous country was a "huge opportunity" for the firm. Plus, manufacturers of the iPhone like Foxconn have started operations in India as well. The shift not only allows Apple to grab more users in a less saturated market but also diversifies its supply chain. We maintain our conviction that you need to own Apple and not trade it, given the company's stellar fundamentals. Starbucks vs Luckin Coffee China is Starbucks' second largest market after the U.S., with more than 6,500 stores and 60,000 staff in the mainland region. Chinese consumers have recently turned away from international players for lower-priced options. Xiamen-based Luckin Coffee, for example, overtook Starbucks in market share in China during 2023, with double the retail locations there. Starbucks still posted a 10% increase in comparable store sales for China. But that missed analysts' estimates of a 17% gain. CEO Laxman Narasimhan chalked the performance up to a "more cautious consumer," given the country's slower-than-expected economic recovery. Starbucks remains committed though. Management said in September that the company would spend $220 million on a new Chinese coffee manufacturing facility, making it Starbucks' largest international investment to date. The company is also making clear strides to turn around the business overseas, with various initiatives to draw Chinese consumers back in. As a result, we maintained our 1, or buy-equivalent rating, on shares but cut our price target to $115 from $125 apiece. New pressure on Nvidia? In the last two years, Washington has issued export controls that limit the ability of Chinese companies to buy advanced tech, such as certain kinds of semiconductor chips, from U.S. businesses. This was in a bid to keep China's military from gaining access to our high-end tech. China is also trying to win market share in the semiconductor sector. Huawei, in particular, sees a window open to do so as the U.S. curbs sales of Nvidia's high-performance AI chips. China is also reportedly slated to launch a new state-backed $40 billion investment fund for the chip industry. Tech behemoths Alibaba and Tencent said they'd order far fewer of Nvidia's more expensive chips in 2024. However, Nvidia still dominates the AI chip market in China, and it's difficult to see its rivals catching up anytime soon. The company has twice re-engineered chips for the Chinese market to comply with U.S. rules. Even without China, however, demand is great elsewhere. Massive tech players like Meta Platforms are willing to spend billions on Nvidia's GPUs. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long AAPL, META, NVDA, SBUX. 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. BEIJING -- All 271 proposals submitted by Chinese lawmakers during the annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC) in March 2023, have been deliberated by nine special committees of the NPC. In addition, a total of 8,314 suggestions made by national lawmakers during the same period were referred to and handled by 204 organizations, with deputies receiving feedback. Out of these suggestions, 19 were selected as key recommendations and processed under the supervision of NPC special committees. Around 46.5 percent of all suggestions focused on accelerating the creation of a new development pattern and pursuing high-quality development, approximately 15.9 percent were about improving people's well-being and 11.9 percent were related to invigorating China through science and education and developing a strong workforce for the modernization drive. In his suggestion, Pan Jiaofeng, an NPC deputy and President of the Institutes of Science and Development under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, had proposed initiating work on autonomous driving standards ahead of schedule. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) together with the National Development and Reform Commission later processed the suggestion. Joint efforts were made by the two departments to study the suggestion, actively communicate with the deputy and brief him about its progress, seek opinions on the resolution, and provide very detailed written responses. "During the process of handling the suggestion, we fully incorporated and drew insights from the proposed suggestions put forward by the deputy," said Guo Shougang, an official with the MIIT. Guo noted that China has released a standard system for intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs), as well as regulations on production access for such vehicles and piloting on-road driving, which will accelerate the industrialization process of ICVs. Bridgit Mendler's path from Disney Channel star to space startup CEO started with quite literally an accident. The 31-year-old is the CEO and co-founder of Northwood Space, a company based in El Segundo, California that aims to mass-produce ground stations otherwise known as the antennae that communicate with space satellites. It's a far cry from her youth spent as a child actor and recording artist, known for roles in Disney Channel shows and films like "Good Luck Charlie" and "Lemonade Mouth." "While everybody else was making their sourdough starters [during the Covid-19 pandemic], we were building antennas out of random crap we could find at Home Depot ... and receiving data from [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] satellites," Mendler told CNBC on Monday while announcing her startup. Mendler was still acting on screen as recently as 2019 but her new career path began more than a decade ago, when she unintentionally marked a box on her University of Southern California college application. "I'm studying anthropology," Mendler told ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" in 2015. "But it was an accident ... I was doing the application all on my own. I think I didn't really understand how it worked. I put down like five different things that I would potentially want to be in as a major, and I got my acceptance letter, and it's like, 'You're in anthropology.'" The educational field resonated with her: Despite dropping out of USC in 2016, she later pursued a master's degree in humanity and technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, according to her LinkedIn profile. She's now working to complete PhD and juris doctor programs, she wrote in a post on social media platform X on March 7, after this story was first published. According to her LinkedIn profile, those programs are respectively at the MIT Media Lab and Harvard Law School, where she said she served as co-president of the Harvard Space Law Society between 2022 and 2023. "I have two engineer parents," Mendler said at an Atlantic Live event in 2018. "My mom's an architect and my dad designs car engines. So there was a lot of math-y science-y talk when I was a kid." Her off-screen experiences lend credence to Northwood, which she co-founded with her husband, CTO Griffin Cleverly, and head of software Shaurya Luthra whom she referred to as her "two favorite ground nerds" in a LinkedIn post. The startup is already on the radar of several venture capital investors, raking in $6.3 million in initial funding from firms like Founders Fund, Andreessen Horowitz, Also Capital and Humba Ventures. Some of Northwood's early employees have track records at Elon Musk's SpaceX, Peter Thiel's Palantir Technologies and aerospace technology company Northrop Grumman, Mendler noted in her LinkedIn post. "At Northwood, we're rethinking infrastructure for satellite backhaul from the ground up. We have our sights on building a data highway between earth and space," she wrote, adding: "We have a lot of work ahead of us but that's the fun part. Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that Mendler dropped out of USC in 2016, and include her statement on social media platform X that she has not yet completed her PhD or juris doctor studies. 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. LONDON British telecoms group BT said Wednesday it had agreed to sell London's iconic BT Tower once an important piece of network infrastructure to developer MCR Hotels for 275 million ($346.6 million). The 189-meter (620-foot) structure has loomed over the capital city's central Fitzrovia neighborhood since 1965, when it opened as the Post Office Tower. It carried telecommunications signals from London to the rest of the country, but its microwave aerials were made redundant more than a decade ago by the transition to fixed and mobile networks. The tower was also known for a revolving restaurant on its 34th floor, which took 22 minutes to complete a rotation. Now, it is set to become the latest London landmark converted into a hotel, joining the likes of the Old War Office and the former Metropolitan Police Headquarters. U.S. development giant MCR owns and operates 150 properties, including the TWA Hotel located in the former TWA Flight Center at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. Tyler Morse, CEO of MCR Hotels, said the group would "preserve this beloved building and will work to develop proposals to tell its story as an iconic hotel." BT, the U.K.'s largest broadband and mobile services provider, is undergoing a massive cost-cutting program that will slash up to 55,000 jobs by 2030. Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, arrives for the Inaugural AI Insight Forum in the Russell Building on Capitol Hill on Sept. 13, 2023. Nvidia reported fourth fiscal quarter earnings that beat Wall Street's forecast for earnings and sales, and said revenue during the current quarter would be better than expected, even against elevated expectations for massive growth. Nvidia shares rose about 10% in extended trading. Here's what the company reported compared with what Wall Street was expecting for the quarter ending in January, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG, formerly known as Refinitiv: Earnings per share: $5.16 adjusted vs. $4.64 expected $5.16 adjusted vs. $4.64 expected Revenue: $22.10 billion vs. $20.62 billion expected Nvidia said it expected $24.0 billion in sales in the current quarter. Analysts polled by LSEG were looking for $5.00 per share on $22.17 billion in sales. Nvidia has been the primary beneficiary of the recent technology industry obsession with large artificial intelligence models, which are developed on the company's pricey graphics processors for servers. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang addressed investor fears that the company may not be able to keep up this growth or level of sales for the whole year on a call with analysts. "Fundamentally, the conditions are excellent for continued growth" in 2025 and beyond, Huang told analysts. He says demand for the company's GPUs will remain high due to generative AI and an industry-wide shift away from central processors to the accelerators that Nvidia makes. Nvidia reported $12.29 billion in net income during the quarter, or $4.93 per share, up 769% versus last years $1.41 billion or 57 cents per share. Nvidia's total revenue rose 265% from a year ago, based on strong sales for AI chips for servers, particularly the company's "Hopper" chips such as the H100, it said. "Strong demand was driven by enterprise software and consumer internet applications, and multiple industry verticals including automotive, financial services and health care," the company said in commentary provided to investors. A laptop keyboard, a binary code reflected and Nvidia logo are displayed on a phone screen in this photo taken in Krakow, Poland, on Jan. 2, 2024. Shares of two critical chip firms TSMC and ASML fell ahead of U.S.-based artificial intelligence chip designer Nvidia's earnings report. Nvidia is set to report its fourth-quarter earnings after the U.S. market closes Wednesday. Wall Street will parse commentary from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang for an indication of how long the company's massive growth can last. Shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company dropped more than 1% on Wednesday morning. TSMC, which is the world's largest producer of advanced processors, manufactures chips for companies such as Nvidia and Apple . Nasdaq-listed shares of Dutch semiconductor equipment maker ASML closed 2.09% lower on Tuesday. ASML supplies the likes of TSMC with machines that are critical to manufacturing chips. That includes the extreme ultraviolet lithography machine which is used to make the most advanced chips in the world, like the ones that go into an Apple iPhone. Other Taiwanese semiconductor companies United Microelectronics Corp . and MediaTek slipped 0.91% and 0.31% respectively on Wednesday. Globally, the skincare market was valued at $146.7 billion in 2021, according to Allied Market Research. That number is expected to nearly double by 2031 to $273.3 billion. When it comes to skincare, the list of products that you use every day can either be lengthy or boiled down to a simple three-step process, depending on what works for your skin. And let's face it, skincare products aren't always the most affordable. But there is one skincare product that Hamdan Abdullah Hamed, a board-certified dermatologist, thinks everyone should invest in and use daily for optimal skin health. No. 1 skincare product you should use every single day: Sunscreen "I think considering its benefits, sunscreen lands on top," Abdullah Hamed says. "It should always be used by any skin type of all ages." Sunscreen is vital for skin health because it protects your skin from sun exposure, according to Abdullah Hamed. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can "cause sunburn, premature aging, and even [increase] skin cancer risk," he notes. And the potential for UV rays to penetrate layers of your skin isn't just limited to a sunny day at the beach; the danger is still present even on cloudy days, he says, which is why you should use sunscreen every day, no matter the weather. Some additional skin health benefits of using sunscreen daily, according to Abdullah Hamed, include: Prevention of hyperpigmentation, sun spots and melasma, which are brown patches on a person's face Maintenance of an even skin tone Reduction in the risk of developing long-term skin damage For anti-aging purposes, using sunscreen daily helps you avoid drying out your skin and negatively affecting skin cells that can alter the appearance of your skin and indicate premature aging, he notes. "Extreme sun exposure will cause the skin to become less elastic, turning it into a leathery texture. Once it becomes dry, you will look older than your age," Abdullah Hamed says. Too much "sun exposure depletes collagen, which is responsible for maintaining the skin's smooth texture." Not using sunscreen can also "make you prone to turning existing scars into darker ones, making them more visible" and "worsen issues of blistering and peeling, which can become scarred if not addressed," he says. 'When should I apply sunscreen?' Now that you know just how important sunscreen actually is, you may be wondering when, and how often, you should be using it. "You should apply sunscreen evenly on all exposed areas about 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure," according to Abdullah Hamed. "During sunny days, or during the day, reapply it every two hours." He also suggests applying sunscreen more frequently if you're sweating a lot or in between laps in the pool "to maintain its effectiveness." Additionally, even if your makeup has SPF in it, Abdullah Hamed encourages you to put on a layer of your normal sunscreen under your makeup, especially on days that you'll be in the sun for longer periods of time. 'What makes a good sunscreen?' President of Turkey Recep Erdogan addresses journalists during the final national press conference during the high level NATO summit in Litexpo Conference Centre in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 12, 2023. Turkey spent nearly two years along with Hungary holding up Sweden's accession to NATO. It's bought powerful Russian weapons systems and its outspoken president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, openly lambastes leaders of allied Western countries. Relations between Turkey and the West have been strained, to say the least. But with the decision to allow Sweden into NATO in late January a move that required unanimous approval by all 31 members of the alliance it's as if a switch has been flipped. Within hours of Ankara's decision, the U.S. approved a $23 billion sale for F-16 fighter jets to Turkey that had been delayed since 2021. The State Department's Victoria Nuland said that Turkey would immediately begin receiving modernization kits for its F-16s, and that Washington would be "delighted" to welcome Turkey back into the F-35 program for NATO's most advanced fighter jet, as soon as the allies resolved the issue of Turkey's Russian weapons system purchases. It's worth noting that Hungary has yet to approve Sweden's NATO bid, and remains the only member of the alliance standing in the way of the Nordic country's accession. "No country within the western orbit has taken so many problematic steps only to be welcomed back with open arms," David Lepeska, a Turkish and Eastern Mediterranean affairs columnist wrote for UAE outlet The National. Turkey seemingly has a unique position that allows it to push the envelope and cross lines with its NATO allies. And it's also welcomed back with open arms after a single change in position, despite calls for stricter accountability by some U.S. lawmakers. "My approval of Turkey's request to purchase F-16 aircraft has been contingent on Turkish approval of Sweden's NATO membership. But make no mistake: This was not a decision I came to lightly," Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin of Maryland, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said in a statement. Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two U.S.-sanctioned countries. Iran's provision of around 400 missiles includes many from the Fateh-110 family of short-range ballistic weapons, such as the Zolfaghar, three Iranian sources said. This road-mobile missile is capable of striking targets at a distance of between 300 and 700 km (186 and 435 miles), experts say. Iran's defense ministry and the Revolutionary Guards - an elite force that oversees Iran's ballistic missile programme - declined to comment. Russia's defense ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The shipments began in early January after a deal was finalised in meetings late last year between Iranian and Russian military and security officials that took place in Tehran and Moscow, one of the Iranian sources said. An Iranian military official - who, like the other sources, asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the information - said there had been at least four shipments of missiles and there would be more in the coming weeks. He declined to provide further details. Another senior Iranian official said some of the missiles were sent to Russia by ship via the Caspian Sea, while others were transported by plane. "There will be more shipments," the second Iranian official said. "There is no reason to hide it. We are allowed to export weapons to any country that we wish to." Reuters Bangladesh will open a visa centre in Silchar city, the headquarters of the Cachar district in Assam, said Assistant High Commissioner of the neighbouring country at Guwahati, Ruhul Amin. The decision was taken following demand from people in three districts in Assam's Barak valley, Amin added. A Bangladesh visa centre will be opened in Silchar) soon, following considerable demand from people of the districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi. "The date of opening the facility is yet to be finalised, but it will be done soon. Our government always emphasises on maintaining a good relationship with India. Applications will be received and visas for a trip to Bangladesh will be issued from here," Amin told PTI. He highlighted that a proposal to start a border market at Harinagar part II of Katigorah will be examined, and hopefully, there will be a positive outcome. The market was proposed to be set up on 500 bighas of land on the bank of the Surma river at Katigorah in Cachar district. Also read: On February 17, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and appreciated her guidance in taking the 'India-Bangladesh Maitri' forward. This was Jaishankar's first meeting with Hasina after she returned to a record fifth term in January. The two leaders were meeting on the sidelines of the 60th edition of the Munich Security Conference. "Honoured to call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. Congratulated her on the renewed mandate. Appreciated her guidance for taking India Bangladesh Maitri forward, Jaishankar posted on X along with a photograph. Honored to call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh. Congratulated her on the renewed mandate. Appreciated her guidance for taking India Bangladesh Maitri forward. #MSC2024 pic.twitter.com/gS2PjOjlj6 Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 17, 2024 Deliveries of the remains of the 115 decomposing bodies discovered at the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose, Colorado, have started arriving at the El Paso County Coroners Office in Colorado Springs, Colorado on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023. Authorities talk inside the enclosure after one of the drop-offs. Temporary structures and refrigerated trucks filled a parking lot next to the office where they will be beginning the massive task of trying to identify the remains. (Photo by Jerilee Bennett, The Gazette) 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. Are you a current print subscriber to Columbia Gorge News? If so, you qualify for free access to all content on columbiagorgenews.com. Simply verify with your subscriber id to receive free access. Your subscriber id may be found on your bill or mailing label. 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. Microsofts $20-per-month Copilot Pro subscription gives you access to Microsofts Copilot AI assistant in Office. That means Copilot can help you write Word documents, work with Excel spreadsheets, create PowerPoint presentations, put together Outlook emails, lay out notes in OneNote, and answer questions about whatever file you have open. Thats the hallmark feature of Copilot Pro: AI built into Office, finally available to anyone not just businesses. But Copilot Pro offers a lot more, and Microsoft will soon be pushing it to everyone via ads: The company is already experimenting with Copilot Pro ads in Windows 11s Settings app. So what exactly can Copilot Pro do, how good is it and should you subscribe? Looking for the ultimate Windows PC newsletter? My free Windows Intelligence newsletter delivers all the best Windows tips straight to your inbox. Plus, youll get free copies of Paul Thurrotts Windows 11 and Windows 10 Field Guides (a $10 value) just for subscribing! Copilot vs. Copilot Pro vs. Copilot for Microsoft 365 Copilot is the name of Microsofts genrative AI-based chatbot. Think of it like Microsofts ChatGPT it uses the same underlying technology as ChatGPT. (Microsoft originally launched it as Bing Chat in 2023, but the company later renamed it Copilot, minimizing that Bing branding.) There are three different Copilots to be aware of: Copilot : The standard Microsoft Copilot is free. Its built into Windows 11, and Microsoft is in the process of adding it to Windows 10. You can access Copilot on the web and via the Copilot apps for Android and iPhone. : The standard Microsoft Copilot is free. Its built into Windows 11, and Microsoft is in the process of adding it to Windows 10. You can access Copilot on the web and via the Copilot apps for Android and iPhone. Copilot Pro : This adds extra features to Copilot, including the ability to use Copilot in Microsoft Office apps like Word something users of the free version of Copilot cant do. Its a paid subscription, and its intended for consumers or individual professionals not businesses. : This adds extra features to Copilot, including the ability to use Copilot in Microsoft Office apps like Word something users of the free version of Copilot cant do. Its a paid subscription, and its intended for consumers or individual professionals not businesses. Copilot for Microsoft 365: This is the version of Copilot intended for businesses. Its more expensive than Copilot Pro, and its not just integrated into Office apps with Microsoft Graph, it can tap into all of a businesss data so you can have it write a Word document based on the contents of an email, for example, or ask it for insights that might involve looking up information in a variety of documents. Chris Hoffman, IDG Microsoft Designer generated this image when I asked it to create a surrealist painting of a boost in an AI art generation application. Copilot Pro: Price and availability Microsoft charges $20 per month for Copilot Pro. That gets you an individual subscription. Since Microsoft doesnt offer a free trial, youll have to commit to at least one month to try it. To use the Copilot Pro features in apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, youll need a Microsoft 365 subscription ($100 per year for a family of up to six people or $70 per year for an individual) on top of the Copilot Pro price. That $20 per month cost matches the monthly price of ChatGPT Plus. In a lot of ways, Copilot Pro is Microsofts answer to ChatGPT Plus and the most compelling aspect is integration in Office apps. Microsoft charges businesses $30 per user per month for access to Copilot for Microsoft 365, so Copilot Pro sits in the middle, between Microsofts free consumer Copilot and its more expensive Copilot for Microsoft 365 product. Like Copilot itself, Copilot Pro isnt yet available worldwide. As of now, Microsoft says its available in Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, France, United Kingdom, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and the United States. Microsoft plans to launch Copilot Pro in more countries soon. Copilot Pro: Features Microsoft advertises the following features as part of Copilot Pro: Copilot in Microsoft 365 apps : Youll get access to Copilot integration in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. This isnt just a chat sidebar you can ask Copilot to create a document for you, or you can request it make changes to the current document. : Youll get access to Copilot integration in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote. This isnt just a chat sidebar you can ask Copilot to create a document for you, or you can request it make changes to the current document. Priority access : Microsoft says youll get priority access to the GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo large language models (LLMs) during peak times. If you already use Copilot, this priority access will ensure you spend less time waiting for a response and more time getting things done. : Microsoft says youll get priority access to the GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo large language models (LLMs) during peak times. If you already use Copilot, this priority access will ensure you spend less time waiting for a response and more time getting things done. AI image creation boosts: Microsoft Designer lets you generate AI images with OpenAIs DALL-E 3 image generation model. You can create and edit images even faster with 100 boosts per day for Designer. Microsoft also announced Copilot Pro will include a Copilot GPT Builder that will let you build your own Copilot GPT a customized Copilot tailored to a specific topic. It sounds similar to ChatGPTs upcoming memory feature. However, this feature isnt available at launch. These features are all cross-platform: You also get priority access to Copilot in the Copilot mobile apps and on the Copilot website, for example not just in Copilot in Windows. Copilot features are also available in Microsoft 365 apps for Windows, Mac, and iPad. The value proposition here is straightforward. Faster access to Copilots normal chat experience and speedier AI image creation are nice, and youll know whether you want them based on how much you use the features and how often you find yourself waiting. So, how well does the Copilot integration work in Office apps? Thats the trillion-dollar question. Chris Hoffman, IDG I asked Copilot write from the perspective of an AI assistant proud of its Word skills. Heres the document it created from that short prompt. How Copilot Pro works in Microsoft 365 (a.k.a. Office) apps Copilot is well integrated into Office its much better than the Copilot integration in Windows! For example, heres how it works in Word: When you start a new document, youll see a Draft with Copilot box asking you what you want to create. On each new line of text, youll see a Copilot icon you can click to have Copilot start writing for you. The ribbon bar has a Copilot button right next to the Editor button, letting you open a Copilot sidebar that lets you work with the current document. You can ask it to write for you, summarize the current document, or change things perhaps you want to quickly change the formatting or style of the document. You can right-click some text and select Copilot > Rewrite with Copilot in the context menu to rewrite text. While the Copilot sidebar built into Windows 11 is limited in how much it can integrate with Windows it cant do much beyond change a few settings Copilot is much better at working with Office documents. It can put together PowerPoint presentations and even generate AI images for them via Microsoft Designer. It can write and format documents. It can reach into an existing document and change the style or formatting however you like. Chris Hoffman, IDG Copilot Pro will jump in ready to help whenever you create a new document. How useful is Copilot Pro in Office? Copilot Pro is the same fundamentally strange chatbot you might be familiar with: Its gone by the name Bing Chat, and its the same underlying model as ChatGPT. Its the Copilot you already know but integrated into Office. And the Office integration is well done! But how useful will that be? As a journalist, I write as a human for humans Im not going to hand over my writing to Copilot anytime soon. Believe me, if Copilot were writing this review, youd notice it not being up to the same quality! Still, I've found Copilot Pro useful at times. I had to go through a fairly long, dense Word document recently, for instance. I was able to ask Copilot questions in the sidebar about what the document said, and it was faster than using Ctrl+F to search and try to guess where things were buried in it. Likewise, Ive used Copilot to change formatting quickly, eliminating some tedium. Chris Hoffman, IDG The Copilot sidebar gives you a convenient way to find information and gather insights from the current document. In the past, Ive had a great experience using AI tools like this for more standard formal writing. Do you need to write a standard complaint letter, inquiry, or something similar with all the formal boilerplate? Copilot would be great for that. You can have Copilot Pro make a PowerPoint presentation for you, too but should you? Copilot Pro will do better when you give it more detailed instructions, going back and forth, asking for changes, and having it work on small tedious things that would take time. Its work probably wont be up to snuff if you give it a one-sentence prompt and expect it to create a business-ready document or email. Chris Hoffman, IDG Microsoft Copilot created this presentation to show off its PowerPoint skills, complete with AI-generated art. Once again, this was created from a single short prompt. Copilot Pro is, however, very disconnected compared to the way Microsoft has shown off Copilot for Microsoft 365 in the past. Youre working with your current Office document. You cant have it gather information from multiple documents and emails, as you can with the business-focused Copilot for Microsoft 365. Free alternatives to Copilot Pro Its worth noting that you can do a lot of what Copilot offers for free, if you like: The Copilot chat experience is free for everyone. You access Copilot in the built-in Copilot sidebar in Windows, online and via mobile apps, as noted earlier. Microsoft Designer offers free AI image generation for everyone with a Microsoft account. You can ask questions about a PDF by opening it in Microsoft Edge. Use the Copilot sidebar in Edge to ask questions about the open PDF document or the current web page you have open. Microsoft Edges Copilot sidebar also has a convenient Compose pane that will help you draft emails, paragraphs, idea lists, and entire blog posts. You can use this tool for free and paste the content into an Outlook email or Office document. You can do a lot with the free version of Copilot. The benefit of Copilot Pro is in speeding everything up, with priority access to the chatbot and faster image generation, along with integration into the Office apps you use. Chris Hoffman, IDG The Copilot sidebar in Microsoft Edge has some convenient text-writing tools anyone can access for free. Is Copilot Pro worth it? At $20 per month, Copilot Pro is the same price as ChatGPT Plus. It uses the same underlying technology. You get AI image generation tools with the DALL-E 3 model in both. The Microsoft Office integration will be a killer feature for many people, who should seriously consider switching from ChatGPT Plus to Copilot Pro. Whether its worth it for you is for you to decide. How much do you use AI chatbots? Would you benefit from an AI chatbot integrated into Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote? If youre not sure, you can find out for $20 for the first month. If you spend a lot of time performing repetitive tasks, digging for data in Office documents, or putting together boilerplate documents, Copilot Pro could be a huge productivity boost and time-saver. But Copilot Pro isnt going to write the next great American novel or my next Windows Intelligence newsletter. Still, it shines when integrated with Office this is the most useful Ive ever seen it. If the Windows team at Microsoft takes pointers from the Office team, the AI integration in a future version of Windows will be impressive. Get even more Windows insights, tips, and tricks with my Windows Intelligence newsletter three things to try every Friday. Plus, get free copies of Paul Thurrotts Windows 11 and Windows 10 Field Guides (a $10 value) for signing up. A civil tribunal in Canada has ordered Air Canada to pay for a mistake made by a customer-service chatbot, highlighting the need for companies to better train and monitor their artificial intelligence (AI) tools. British Columbia resident Jake Moffatt visited Air Canadas website in November 2022 to book a flight for his grandmothers funeral in Ontario. The websites chatbot told him he could be refunded a portion of the next-day ticket and the return ticket, if he applied for the discount within 90 days. That information was incorrect; Air Canadas policy, available on its website, is to provide bereavement discounts if the customer applies in advance. After Air Canada refused to provide the discount, a Canadian tribunal ordered the airline to pay about $600 in bereavement refunds and tribunal costs about half of what Moffatt paid for the tickets. Companies using chatbots and other generative AI (genAI) tools must invest in monitoring efforts in order to save money from chatbot productivity gains, said Avivah Litan, a distinguished vice president analyst focused on AI at Gartner. Otherwise, they will end up spending more on legal fees and fines than they earn from productivity gains. In the Air Canada case, Christopher Rivers, a member of the British Columbia Civil Resolution Tribunal, sided with Moffatt and rejected the airlines assertion that the chatbot is a separate legal entity that is responsible for its own actions. Air Canada could not explain why the information on bereavement discounts on its website was more reliable than what was provided by the chatbot, Rivers wrote in his Feb. 14 ruling. Air Canada owed Mr. Moffatt a duty of care, he added. "Generally, the applicable standard of care requires a company to take reasonable care to ensure their representations are accurate and not misleading. Three analysts who focus on the AI market agreed that companies using chatbots and other AI tools need to check their output. About 30% of genAI answers are fictional, an output called a hallucination, Litan said. Companies using chatbots must use guardrails that highlight output anomalies such as hallucinations, inaccurate, and illegal information and set up human review operations that investigate and block or approve these outputs before they are disseminated, she said. They must ensure that outputs, especially in customer-facing applications, are accurate and that they do not steer customers or the organization managing the chatbot down the wrong path." GenAI chatbots arent ready for customer-service interactions unless companies using them invest in reliability, security, and safety controls, she argued. Companies using chatbots should set up new operations to manually review unanticipated responses highlighted by anomaly detection tools. Cases where chatbots provide the wrong information highlight the need for companies to focus on responsible AI, said Hayley Sutherland, research manager for knowledge discovery and conversational AI at IDC. Companies need to invest in testing and training the AI tools they use, she recommended. Regardless of what format or UI [AI is] delivered in, companies tend to be held responsible for the information they provide to customers, so its wise to proceed with caution, she said. Sutherland recommended that companies eyeing chatbots and other AI tools first use them for less sensitive internal cases, such as employee knowledge assistance, instead of jumping straight into customer service. AI hallucinations can be plausible sounding, even while they provide incorrect information, she noted. To combat the problem, generative AI systems should include a human in the loop and other mechanisms to bound, ground, and validate chatbot output during the training phase, as well as with continuous testing, Sutherland said. Another problem is that current chatbots can only handle a few simple tasks, said David Truog, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. Unfortunately, companies deploying chatbots are often overconfident in bots effectiveness, he said. They underestimate the complexity of creating an effective bot; the thing they most often and disastrously neglect is much-needed expertise in human-centered design and in conversation design. Companies shouldnt expect chatbots to get a special legal status, he said. Chatbots are software, just like the rest of a companys website or app, Truog said. And any organization that deploys software to interact with its customers on its behalf is responsible for whatever that software does. Its common for customers to anthropomorphize chatbots somewhat since they use human languages, but thats no excuse for companies to do the same to the point of washing their hands of any responsibility when their bot misbehaves. As a normal part of the healing process, scars can appear on the skin after a traumatic event like a cut, surgery, or scrape. Many people look for ways to lessen the visibility and pain of scars, even if they may diminish on their own. Scar creams and gels are examples of topical therapies that could be useful. Scar creams and gels formulated with silicone are suitable for direct application to scars. These products do more than just hydrate the skin; they also form a protective barrier that helps alleviate scar redness, inflammation, and pain. Further research has demonstrated that scar gels or lotions can help scars flatten and soften, which in turn reduces their visibility. In consideration of your time and needs, we have curated a selection of the top five scar treatment options available today. The MURASAKI Silicone Scar Gel boasts a crystalline texture that feels lightweight and non-greasy upon application, swiftly melding into the skin to effectively target scars. Its universally compatible formula caters to all skin types, delivering age-defying results. This gel's distinctive texture facilitates effortless absorption, leaving no residual traces behind. Its non-oily consistency renders it suitable for application on both facial and bodily areas, offering a versatile solution for a wide range of scar types. Whether addressing acne scars, surgical marks, or stretch marks, the MURASAKI Silicone Scar Gel diligently works to diminish their visibility, fostering a smoother, rejuvenated skin appearance. Furthermore, this silicone scar gel has undergone rigorous clinical testing across various applications, including post-operative recovery, wound healing, burn treatment, acne management, hypertrophic scars, and keloids, as well as aiding in the rehabilitation of wounds, sprains, and C-sections, among others. Burn specialists, dermatologists, and cosmetic surgeons nationwide rely on this medical-grade silicone scar gel sheeting. Suitable for individuals of all skin types and ages, it accelerates the healing process following HF surgery. Cross polymer, a substance that doctors frequently recommend in the United States for the treatment of scars resulting from various causes like acne, C-sections, pregnancy, and other traumatic events, is a crucial component of this formulation. The Heal Fast Scar Prevention Cream represents a groundbreaking solution with a multitude of advantages for scar prevention and healing. Distinguished by its exclusive blend of 30 milliliters of nutrient-rich proprietary Ovasome Technology, it stands out among the other scar creams available. This formulation leverages the potency of vitamins, minerals, and proteins to deliver essential nourishment, fostering skin repair and restoring a natural appearance. Final thoughts Whether addressing scars in visible areas or on challenging-to-reach regions of the body or face, this versatile self-drying solution is crafted to be effective across all scenarios. Furthermore, its formulation is free from parabens, artificial colors, and fragrances, ensuring a gentle and safe experience for your skin. While it's noteworthy that this product has undergone animal testing, it's essential to consider its overall effectiveness and the potential benefits it offers for scar management. Disclosure Counsel & Heal writes about stuff we think you'll like. We have affiliate partnerships and may earn commission from any sale resulting from this page. An international research team has documented the psychological toll of war on the general populace. In a study, researchers found a global decline in well-being coinciding with the war's outbreak, regardless of age, gender, or political affiliation. An analysis indicated heightened mental stress surpassing that of previous crises such as the Fukushima disaster and the COVID-19 lockdown. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has not only sparked global concern for humanitarian, economic, and ecological ramifications but has also significantly impacted the psychological well-being of individuals across Europe. The study, conducted from October 2021 to August 2022, encompassed 17 European countries and involved over 1,300 participants. Through a rigorous experience-sampling methodology, researchers tracked the well-being of individuals before, during, and after the war in Ukraine. The findings reveal a striking decline in well-being across Europe coinciding with the day of the Russian invasion. Personality traits vs. demographics Despite the varied demographics of participants, including age, gender, and political affiliation, the decline in well-being was universally observed. Interestingly, recovery from this initial shock was found to be influenced by individual personality traits rather than demographic factors. The study also highlighted the detrimental impact of war-related social media coverage on daily well-being. The role of support and availability of interventions The researchers emphasize the critical need to consider the psychological dimensions of war alongside its tangible consequences. By understanding how individuals respond to such crises, individuals in need can get better support and inform targeted interventions. The study not only contributes to the understanding of the psychological effects of the Russo-Ukrainian war but also showcases the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. Moving forward, initiatives aimed at promoting mental health awareness and providing accessible support services will be crucial in managing the long-term impact of such conflicts on societal well-being. *Senior Fellow, Council on Foreign Relations/Associate Professor of International Relations, Boston University. Source: The Conversation --- Between 1884 and 1919, Namibia was a German colony , with some communities systematically dispossessed of their traditional lands. In 1904, one of these communities, the Herero , rebelled, followed in 1905 by the Nama. In response, German troops slaughtered thousands in a bloodbath that is today widely acknowledged to be a genocide . Survivors, including women and children, were herded into horrific concentration camps and subjected to forced labor and medical experiments.The struggle to hold Germany accountable began decades ago, with individuals from the Herero and Nama communities calling for accountability and reparations. Germany rebuffed them repeatedly, precisely because the Namibian government did not take up their call. Only in 2015, after the Namibian government officially requested redress, did Germany acquiesce.In May 2021, Germany finally agreed to recognize the genocide , apologize and establish a fund of US$1.35 billion toward reconstruction and development projects in Herero- and Nama-dominated areas.Why did it take so long? For the Herero and Nama, the genocide and loss of traditional lands were always forefront. But for others in Namibia notably, the dominant political party, the South West Africa Peoples Organization, or SWAPO, which consists largely of members of the Ovambo ethnic community uniting Namibians to come together in a national, anti-colonial struggle for independence was deemed more important than focusing on the wrongs suffered by any one community.After independence, the ruling SWAPO prioritized nation-building and unity and cultivated ties with the German government, hoping for foreign aid and economic development. Complicating matters, the Ovambo had not lost their own traditional lands to colonialism in the same way as the Herero and Nama.For years, government-approved school history textbooks used in Namibian schools reflected the SWAPO narrative. One Ovambo former school history teacher told me that Namibian children learned about the war of national resistance and how exploitative colonialism had necessitated that war. But the word genocide was never used, and there were no mentions of the suffering of affected communities.Around 2010, Namibian activists, NGO workers and government officials from all communities began to search for common ground to reconcile the different narratives. Some attempts failed. A 2014 museum exhibition on the genocide collapsed after its financier, the Finnish embassy, withdrew funding allegedly under pressure, one Namibian expert told me, from the German government. But others succeeded. The National Archives of Namibia launched a project to collect academic papers on divergent narratives of the liberation struggle and colonial history.As reconciling narratives progressed, history textbooks were revised to honor not just SWAPOs version of history, but also highlight the brutalities suffered by the Herero and Nama. They included frank discussions of genocide and colonial atrocities. Against this backdrop, the Namibian government officially initiated a request for redress from Germany. Both governments appointed teams to find a resolution, resulting in the 2021 reparation fund.Redress between countries is rare. Successful redress even more so. But the example of Namibia shows that it can be done when the governments of victim countries initiate redress. By focusing only on perpetrator states, we miss an opportunity to examine their victims as agents of change, and thereby perpetuate redress as an unusual phenomenon. There are times when a civilization, in service of the population, the gods or some combination of the two, undertakes the construction of a monument meant to stand the test of time. Something that unlimited generations will look to as an example of the human spirit and the triumph of civilization. They can step back, dust off their hands (or instruct their slaves to) and breathe a contented sigh, knowing theyve made their mark on history. Now, they just have to hope that theres never a war near there. Unfortunately, thats not always the case. Here are nine incredible structures that got blown up, smashed or something even worse 9 The Bamiyan Buddhas Public Domain In the vein of the still-standing Sphinx, the Bamiyan Buddhas were massive works that were achievements in art as much as they were construction. They were created in the 6th century to mark a holy Buddhist site along the Silk Road. In 2001, the Afghani landmarks were destroyed by the Taliban as part of an effort to rid the area of pre-Islamic monuments. I have to say, I cant think of anything that will give you worse karma than blowing up a giant Buddha. 8 The Porcelain Tower Public Domain You would think that the idea of a porcelain tower was just a poetic turn of phrase. Shockingly, the name was literal, as the Porcelain Tower of Nanjing was a roughly 260-foot tall tower whose sides were built with bricks of actual white porcelain. It must have been an unimaginably beautiful sight, one that remains unimaginable thanks to the destruction of the tower in 1856 during the Taiping Rebellion. It wasnt even an unfortunate accident: It was simply viewed as a very dangerous bit of high ground. A tragedy, though Murphy's Law wouldnt ever give good odds to a tower made of porcelain. Advertisement 7 Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Oasis.54515 The Kashi Vishwanath Mandir was a temple devoted to worship of the lord Shiva in Ayodha, India. Unfortunately, in the early 1500s, it was under the purview of the emperor Aurangzeb, and theres two things you should know about Aurangzeb. First of all, he took the throne by imprisoning his father and murdering his older brother, so he wasnt a particularly chill guy. The second is that he was very serious about Islam, a religion in which Shiva is notably not a part of. The temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb, who didnt want people worshipping what he considered the wrong god right in front of him. Advertisement 6 Hwangnyongsa Rachel Advertisement The temple site of Hwangnyongsa in Korea included a massive, nine-story pagoda. It was constructed in the year 553 A.D. and remained the largest temple in Korea for many centuries. Unfortunately, in 1238, the Mongols arrived. Things went as they usually did when that happens, and the temple was burned to the ground. 5 The Library of Leuven Theedi As we get into more modern times, even in active war, theres some emphasis placed on maintaining historic sites and especially information. If you dont want to be the bad guys, I would recommend you avoid destroying libraries. Something that was written into the Hague Convention of 1907, saying, All necessary steps must be taken to spare, as far as possible, buildings dedicated to religion, art, science or charitable purposes. Something the Germans signed, and then completely ignored less than 10 years later in World War I as they burned down the library of the University of Leuven in what is now Belgium. Advertisement 4 Vijecnica of Sarajevo Public Domain The Vijecnica in Sarajevo didnt only serve as city hall, but also as the national library. The kind of place thatll really spark some outrage if destroyed, something that the Bosnian Serbs truly did not give a fuck about while in the process of one of the most horrific sieges in modern history. They targeted the building directly in August 1992, and the building, unsurprisingly, suffered heavy damage from their artillery. A disgusting little cherry on top was added when they then shot at the firefighters who came to try to save the building. Great way to get yourself a one-way ticket to the Hague. Advertisement Advertisement 3 Hirschholm Palace Public Domain The Hirschholm Palace was the palatial summer retreat of Danish monarchy. What makes it unique among the buildings of history is that its a structure that was destroyed because of how embarrassing it became. It was the site of a nationally humiliating affair between a doctor and the Queen of Denmark, and once the doctor in question was beheaded, and things set back to the preference of the ruling class, they let the palace fall into ruin as to not ever have to think about that little whoopsie again. 2 The Parthenon Jim Killock Advertisement The Parthenon met its fate through a combination of enemy aggression and sheer military stupidity. During the Great Turkish War, the Turkish Army occupied Athens, including the Parthenon. They apparently saw it as the perfect place to store all their gunpowder, which is kind of like letting your cat live in the bottom of your china cabinet. In a move so obvious it feels pulled from a Call of Duty tutorial, Venetian Captain-General Francesco Morosini fired a single shot directly into the Turks carefully arranged pile of explosive material, and it, along with much of the Parthenon, exploded. Jon Stewart, aka Bizarro Garfield, continues to host The Daily Show on Mondays only. This week, the embattled comedian began his second episode of 2024 by responding to the controversy surrounding last weeks show, in which he dared to criticize President Joe Biden by airing footage of Biden being the president. Stewart also literally compared Trumps campaign to the Barbarian invasion of Rome during that same segment, but, sure, he was clearly saying that both sides are equally bad. The bulk of this weeks show was devoted to ridiculing Tucker Carlsons interview with Vladimir Putin, so pretty much the Daily Show equivalent of unloading a shotgun on a barrelful of fish. Stewart mocked his old adversarys lack of critical thinking, willingness to parrot Russian propaganda and borderline horniness for basic grocery store technology. One moment that Stewart singled out in particular: When Putin suggested that Poland forced Hitler to start World War II and received zero pushback from Carlson. Why would a country whose navy has submarines with screen doors want to instigate a war? Stewart questioned. After dropping this random, 1950s joke book-tier line, Stewart paused for a Historical Context segment. Quick history lesson, he told the audience, years ago, for reasons nobody is really sure of, a stereotype emerged that Polish people were inept in various ways. He went on to explain that Polish people are as smart as anyone, and certainly did not deserve to be invaded by the Germans, who of course accomplished that by marching backwards so the Poles thought they were leaving. Play Advertisement Advertisement Yeah, he ended the bit with another Polish joke. Stewart admitted that this was the dumb portion of the monologue, but its arguably a bit worse than that. Contrary to Stewarts claim that nobody is really sure of where jokes about Polish incompetence came from, some have argued that the modern Polish joke can be traced back to the Nazis. As Readers Digest notes, Hitler pushed the racist dumb Polack stereotype so the rest of Europe wouldnt sympathize with the countrys fate. The Nazis spread false stories of Polish military ineptitude following the invasion, such as how their army tried to attack German tanks with swords and horses. That being said, some German-created Polish jokes did exist prior to World War II in border regions such as Silesia. And even in the 19th century, German states had very aggressive anti-Polish policies that went along with their plans to annex Polish territory which included perpetuating the image of a dumb Pole whose only ability is to work in the field. This trend was then revived when Germany turned into Nazi Germany. Advertisement Theres no concrete evidence that the 20th centurys wave of anti-Polish humor in the U.S. directly grew out of German propaganda, but even in the 1960s, these jokes were still very much tied to lampooning military failures, such as when Laugh-In declared that Poland had invaded itself. So this context seems pretty important. Stewarts premise may have been a knowing bit of winking-at-the-audience tomfoolery, but the fact that his segment about unchecked dictatorial propaganda paused to rehash historical dictatorial propaganda seems not so great. That would be like performing a monologue about how Taco Bell gives you diarrhea, then taking a moment to extol the virtues of the Dorito Crunchwrap Supreme. You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this). Youd better not joke about Florida censoring speech that goes against their preferred narrative, or else Florida newspapers will censor your joke. For 53 years, Garry Trudeaus comic strip Doonesbury has graced the funny pages of local and national newspapers, bringing dry, informed political satire to readers across the country six-to-eight panels at a time. Since starting the strip, the Yale graduate and Pulitzer Prize-winner has ruffled the feathers of the rich and powerful on many occasions, earning the ire of politicians like President George H.W. Bush and House Speaker Tip O'Neill over their portrayal in the political parody cartoon. With Doonesbury, Trudeau takes aim at the reckless and influential regardless of their party affiliation, making few friends in the process besides the papers that carry his comic strip well, some of them, anyways. This past Sunday, many readers whose regional newspapers are owned by the multi-billion dollar, conservative-leaning mass media holding company Gannett flipped to the funny pages to find that Doonesbury was conspicuously missing from its usual position in the printing. Former Iowa State Representative and president of the Veterans National Recovery Center Bob Krause noticed that absence and made sure to show Twitter what Gannett hid from them. Advertisement Gannett owns almost 400 newspapers in the United States, including the national publication USA Today and local papers in 44 states, among which is Krause's Iowa, where the Des Moines Register followed company protocol and cut out the above strip from circulation. Apparently, Gannett didn't want its readers knowing that seven of the states in the U.S. Confederacy explicitly cited the issue of slavery in their declarations of secession. Gannett also doesn't want comic strip fans learning about how almost 100,000 white southerners chose loyalty to their country over preserving slavery as they fought for the Union during the Civil War. Many conservative-dominated states have passed legislation designed to prevent education about historical topics such as slavery and civil rights, but the state that Trudeau name-drops in Sunday's censored Doonesbury strip has drawn the most attention for how hilariously absurd its lengthy ban list stretches a school district in Florida even made national headlines this past summer for banning an Arthur book from the school library. Advertisement Somewhere at the Gannett headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, some lone employee must have noticed the grim irony of a massive, powerful news media company censoring a comic strip for educating readers about topically relevant facts and joking about being censored. The cognitive dissonance required to strike such a strip from publication proves the importance of the information Trudeau was trying to communicate as the hypocrisy of the conservative media continues to demonstrate that there is no greater enemy to their agenda than an informed populace. God forbid Gannett decides to shill for the anti-sledding lobby Calvin and Hobbes could be next on the chopping block. Youd think that once you reach the top of the business world, youd be perfectly happy to stay as ignorant as possible. However, like a despised king willingly descending his ivory tower to waltz through the town square, some CEOs insist on chopping it up on social media like theyre normal people. Usually, its just annoying, but in some glorious moments, something horrible slips out, and we all get to watch their public shaming. Here are six times CEOs said a little too much on social media 6 Bezos Happy Earth Day Seattle City Council Would a man killing the earth have this many plants behind him? For most of us, the statement Happy Earth Day is as unobjectionable as they come. Even among holiday greetings, its not the most controversial. Thats a privilege we enjoy because we arent personally responsible for a good piece of the destruction of said earth. So when Jeff Bezos, owner of a company that pumps out the carbon dioxide equivalent of 80 billion pounds of coal yearly, starts getting teary about the environment, it rings a little hollow. Did he think all those shoddy foreign cellphone chargers were changing the world for the better? 5 Tech CEO Goes Off on the Homeless Sympathy for the homeless is hard to ascribe to people who own multiple houses, but theyre not supposed to say it out loud. Or on Facebook, like CEO Greg Gopman of AngelHack, who decided the homeless of San Francisco, or as he calls them, the lower part of society needed the straight dope about how they dont add the smallest iota of value" and how there is nothing gained from having them so close to us. Buddy, youre welcome to set them up with a house in the burbs. He also said they sell small trinkets like he lived above some sort of fantastical bazaar. 4 Ice Cream CEO Makes An Ill-Advised Assumption Social media manager is a go-to non-job to make fun of, but sometimes, a little personal touch on social media is enough to show exactly why you need someone with a normal brain to handle it. When a customer posted on Wilcoxsons Ice Creams Facebook page, he was seeking simple information. He noticed that their cookies-and-cream flavor listed gelatin as an ingredient, and, being Muslim, wanted to know if that included pork. The acceptable answers here would be yes, no or let me look into it. Instead, the CEO fired off the reply, We dont deliver outside of Montana, certainly not Pakistan. As you might guess from the fact were talking about it, the man in question wasn't from Pakistan, but Wyoming. 3 Makeup CEO Photobombed By An Unfortunate Cake Reddit If that sticker had just been a bit to the left Even as a simple cog in our great machine, I generally try to make sure anything I post to social media doesnt have any unpleasantry or private information hiding in the background. Nobody wants to realize a picture of their new TV has their reflection ass-naked floating in the middle of it. So, especially when a companys stock price is tied to your behavior, youd think to scan the margins, but the CEO of makeup brand Too Faced forgot to do this when posting a Instagram Story of him and his husband, with an unwelcome guest in the bottom left corner: a cake decorated with the phrase Rich Lives Matter. Thats a gaffe almost designed in a laboratory to piss off the most possible people in three words. 2 Ryanair CEO s Uncomfortably Horny Q&A The CEO of budget airline Ryanair, Michael OLeary, is known for being a bit of an, as theyd say, arsehole. So much so that it basically became part of the brand. Which is a good strategy, I suppose, if youre stuck with an impulsive, banter-heavy guy as the face of your company. Even with everyone expecting the worst, he still occasionally managed to cross the line, like he did during a completely voluntary Twitter Q&A. He opened up a hashtag called #GrillMOL and invited people to ask questions, and when the FIRST QUESTION apparently came from someone whose profile picture he was a fan of, he replied, possibly not fully knowing replies on Twitter are public, Nice Pic. Phwoaaarr! Phwoaaarr, I assume, being some sort of sexual exhortation, even though it sounds like someones best attempt to spell a pterodactyls cry. If you wear suspenders, do you need a belt? If you have one parachute, do you need a reserve? Many CISOs, security teams, and cryptographers are asking a similar question about encryption algorithms when they choose the next generation of protocols. Do users need multiple layers of encryption? Do they want the complexity and cost, too? What is hybrid encryption? Many discussions of hybrid encryption begin with some debate about just what this means. Hybrid encryption in general refers to the combined use of public-key (asymmetric) cryptography with symmetric encryption. Systems that combine multiple algorithms are common and mathematicians have been marrying different algorithms to leverage their advantages for some time. For instance, many public-key systems use the public-key algorithms only to scramble a symmetric key that is then used to encrypt the data. Symmetric algorithms like AES are generally dramatically faster, and the hybrid approach captures these benefits. The topic is receiving plenty of attention now because of the rollout of the post-quantum algorithms developed through NISTs post-quantum cryptography (PQC) competition. Some wonder if the new approaches are trustworthy, and theyre hoping that some kind of hybrid approach will bring more assurance during any transition. Adding layers is not a new solution. When Stuart Haber and Scott Stornetta designed a time-stamping service that became the company Surety, they used two different hash functions in parallel. They also designed the protocols so that newer, better hash functions could be added later. In the face of unexpected algorithmic advances in cryptanalysis, we wrestled with the problem of how best to swap in a new hash function in an existing widely deployed authentication system, Haber tells CSO. We didnt want to stake everything on just one algorithm. Google is already proceeding down the path of using hybrid algorithms. Last year, Chrome and some servers started negotiating session keys using a combination of two algorithms: X25519 A common choice of TLS that uses elliptic curves Kyber-768 a quantum-resistant key encapsulation method and NISTs PQC winner In a recent announcement, Devon OBrien, technical program manager for Chrome security, said that the extra Kyber-encapsulated key material added about 1,000 bytes to each TLS ClientHello message, an overhead that was not an issue for the vast majority of users. Research offers this startling statistic: One in 14 children in the United States has a parent who either is or has been behind bars. If that number astonishes you, it's because these young people have learned by experience to keep their truths close to the vest, lest they be stigmatized and judged. There is, however, a club at Culver City High School where every week these teens have an opportunity to be seen, heard, and understood. They are members of a club known as POPS the Club. Founded as a nonprofit in Los Angeles over a decade ago, last year The Pathfinder Network based in Portland, Oregon took over club operations to continue to provide and expand support for youth across the country whose lives have been impacted in any way by incarceration, detention and deportation. Each year they release a book collection published by Out of the Woods Press that features writing and artwork created by the club members. Their award-winning books reflect the words and wisdom of youth who possess a perspective too seldom heard, seen, or understood, and the wisdom, resilience and talent to teach us all. On February 13, 2024, their newest collection, ADVICE TO 9TH GRADERS: Stories, Poetry, Art & Other Wisdom (Out of the Woods Press) will be published. The impetus behind this collection was the opportunity for slightly older young people to teach those who are first stepping over the threshold of adulthood as they enter high school. The poetry, stories, and artwork in this volume speak, however, to everyone. As Kirkus Reviews points out, the work is "poignant and encouraging cheerleading from the trenches," with young people offering tender, deeply honest, and hard-won perspectives on everything from love to loss, from looking in the mirror to understanding the world everywhere around us. The Los Angeles community is invited on March 2 at 2 p.m. to join some of the creators in celebration of the release at Downtown LA's Public Library in their Teen Room. Here the creators will officially launch Advice to 9th Graders, and many of the writers and artists will be reading aloud from their work. The editor, Amy Friedman, will also be there to answer any questions, and participants will be invited to contribute their own advice to 9th graders; these missives will be included in The Library's Zine Collection. When discussing the impact both of the club and their powerful books, Leticia Longoria-Navarro, Executive Director of The Pathfinder Network, put it this way: "Hearing your experiences reflected in the stories of others, especially the hard ones, can lessen the impact of stigma, shame and adversity. Feeling like you are not alone in your experiences can create powerful shifts and open the door to meaning, healing and power." Those unable to attend the launch are invited to purchase a copy of the book for their teens, for themselves, and for their local libraries and schools. Photo-Illustration: Curbed; Photos: Alamy, Curbed Even by the standards of the Manhattan real-estate industry a field long associated with money laundering, organized crime, and Trumps Nir Meirs alleged crimes stand out for their breadth and brazenness. Meir, the former managing director of the luxury developer HFZ Capital Group, will be arraigned today before a judge in lower Manhattan, following his arrest in Miami earlier this month. Hes facing a raft of charges, including grand larceny, conspiracy, and forgery, that are the result of a three-year joint investigation by the district attorney and the New York State Police Special Investigation Unit. Two of Meirs colleagues at HFZ and three employees of Omnibuild, a construction management firm, were arraigned two weeks ago. As HFZs managing director, Meir, 49, was second-in-command to the firms founder, Ziel Feldman. Fifteen years older than Meir, Feldman was something of a ruler in absentia, happy to let his protege manage the firms day-to-day operations. Prosecutors have focused on three projects led by Meir, including HFZs flagship, a pair of spiraling towers designed by Bjarke Ingels at 76 11th Avenue called the XI. Nir Meir, after being arrested in South Beach on an out-of-state fugitive warrant. Photo: Miami-Dade County Corrections and Rehabilitation In 2015, HFZ spent $870 million for the empty lot along the High Line an ungodly sum for dirt and contracted Omnibuild to oversee the XI building process. The same year, HFZ created an entity called 76 Eleventh Property Owner LLC to manage the hundreds of millions of dollars the firm raised to finance construction. HFZ and Omnibuild would use the LLC to pay dozens of contractors who, for example, poured concrete, installed windows, or put up Sheetrock. Prosecutors are now alleging that Meir transferred more than $253 million to other LLCs controlled by HFZ. From there, the government says, money improperly went to other company projects and into HFZ executives personal accounts. Prosecutors also allege that Meir and Omnibuild employees deceived the projects lender into releasing new rounds of funding, with Meir instructing accountants to forge bank statements. A second project that has drawn investigators scrutiny involves a long-coveted piece of land on 30th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues owned by Marble Collegiate Church. HFZ tapped Bjarke Ingels to design an office building there and enlisted Pavarini McGovern, another large firm, to oversee construction. Prosecutors allege that just as he had with the XI, Meir unlawfully moved $107 million out of the projects LLC. In both cases, according to the government, Meir returned much of the money but came up short by tens of millions of dollars. He also allegedly forged documents and sent bogus wire-transfer information to Pavarini. A third scheme described by the government is smaller but, if proved, might be the most shameless. In early 2017, an investor called Arica Development lent HFZ $5 million to acquire and develop a property on Folsom Street in San Francisco. Prosecutors say that just $400,000 of the money went toward HFZs attempt to acquire the building, while $4.6 million was diverted to other HFZ projects. Meir then allegedly spent years lying to Arica, claiming the project was moving forward when, in fact, HFZ had failed to even close the deal to buy the building. Again, Meir allegedly sent fake documents and permits that made it seem like everything was proceeding as planned. During this period, colleagues at HFZ described Meir as indefatigable, a savant with numbers and a master at finding and maintaining relationships with elite investors around the globe. He was always working, whether he was at pricey restaurants or exclusive clubs or hosting parties at his beachside mansion in the Hamptons. At the office, his authority couldnt be questioned. As one former employee told me in 2022, You cant say no to Nir. If he asks you to transfer money to cover his AmEx, you have to pay it. If you dont pay it, youre going to get fired. As Meir dug HFZ into holes, he seems to have relied on increasingly desperate ploys to keep stakeholders at bay. In addition to allegedly lying to investors and forging documents, a lawsuit brought by Feldman in 2021 accused Meir of getting someone to pose as an investor during a conference call. As the real-estate newsletter The Promote recently described Meir, Think of Adam Sandlers Howie in Uncut Gems. Crank up the sketch, and you get close to the feeling. Investors and lenders werent the only ones Meir was allegedly bilking. Smaller contractors staked the future of their businesses on big HFZ jobs. One was Jan Efraimsen, who owned a millwork company in Yorktown Heights that HFZ contracted to work on a project on the Upper West Side. In early 2020, Efraimsen sent frenzied emails to an HFZ project manager demanding the firm pay an outstanding balance. I am desperate for money right now anything will work, he wrote. This is killing me, he added. But the HFZ project manager didnt have any answers. I dont want to string you along. Promises have been made before and not kept, the HFZ employee eventually wrote back. Efraimsen has since retired. When I spoke to him in 2022, he told me he was forced to lay off three of his carpenters because HFZ hadnt paid for the work his company performed. In recent days, I called a handful of former HFZ employees to get their reactions to Meirs arrest. None were surprised, but they did wonder why other top executives, like Feldman, had escaped indictment. (An attorney for Feldman and HFZ did not return a request for comment.) And one former employee questioned why prosecutors had chosen to focus on only three HFZ projects when, the employee suggested, they could have found evidence of wrongdoing in almost any of them. - Reviewed by James Stanley, Nov. 24, 2021 The Bullish Hammer Candlestick Pattern: Main Talking Points The bullish hammer candlestick pattern is frequently observed in financial markets and, like many Japanese candlesticks, provides important insight into market momentum. In particular, the bullish hammer can help to validate a charts reversal point. Traders can exploit the detection of a bullish hammer candle with a proper understanding of its foundations. This article will outline the following: What is a bullish hammer? Using a Bullish Hammer Candlestick Pattern in Trading Further Reading on Trading with Candlestick Patterns Recommended by Warren Venketas Forex for Beginners Get My Guide What is a bullish hammer? A bullish hammer is a single candle found within a price chart indicating a bullish reversal. It differs from other candlestick patterns due to its single candle hinting at a turn during an established downtrend. Pictured below the hammer is interpreted by understanding a candles particular open, low high and close levels. To create a hammer, price must first significantly sell off to create a new low for a currency pair. However, after this decline, prices must significantly rally causing prices to have a small body and close near its opening price. Its important to remember that bullish hammers should have long wicks at least twice the length of the candle body. In addition, the candle itself can either be red or green depending on the strength of the reversal. Often the bullish hammer is confused with a bearish hanging man candle. The misrepresentation is logical because both candles look identical. The difference between these two candles lies in their placement in a trending market. The hanging man has a small body and long wick but is found hanging at the end of an uptrend. Bullish hammers have small bodies and long wicks also but are only seen at the end of a downtrend. How to spot a Bullish Hammer pattern: Candle with a short body and long wick (at least 2x the size of the body) Occurs at the bottom of a downward trend Confirmation from other indicators as mentioned below What does it indicate: Trend reversal to the upside (bullish reversal) Price rejection at a certain key level Value to traders: Indicates potential price reversals which could lead to entering a long position at the start of an upward swing capitalize on the full upward movement Easy to identify Recommended by Warren Venketas Building Confidence in Trading Get My Guide Using a Bullish Hammer Candlestick Pattern in Trading Bullish hammer candlestick in the forex market Bullish hammer candles can be found on a variety of charts and time frames. Depicted above is an example of the hammer on the AUD/USD daily chart. From 20 April through to 31 May the AUD/USD fell as much as 892 pips. This downtrend was concluded with a bullish hammer candle, and price has subsequently rallied a total of 792 pips through todays price action. AUD/USD Bullish Hammer candlestick: As the strength of a hammer depends on its placement on the graph, normally traders use this candle in conjuncture with other indications of price support. This includes using tools such as Fibonacci retracements, pivot points and psychological whole numbers. In an ideal scenario, the wick of the hammer will penetrate a support level, but the body will close above support on renewed buying sentiment. With a new buying opportunity presented, traders may then choose to place stops under the created wick below support. Bullish hammer candlestick in the equity market The bullish hammer candle is interpreted the same way in all financial markets (indices, forex, commodities and stocks) however, stock analysis requires further data as confirmation. It is important to note that brokers generally show internal volume figures for the other financial markets including forex which is why the volume indicator is not reliable for an overall market volume estimate. The chart below shows a bullish hammer candle on a Barclays PLC chart. In conjunction with the bullish hammer, there is a subsequent relative increase in volume traded as highlighted. This emphasizes institutional activity for this period due to the large volume retail traders will not be able to affect such large volumes. This denial by bulls (traders taking long positions) after the recent swing low displays price rejection at that level. This level may be a key level whereby buy order are triggered. With the bullish hammer and the volume exhibit this relationship, traders can have some form of validation to place a long trade. As always, the principals of risk management should apply to all trades. Barclays PLC Bullish Hammer: Further Reading on Trading with Candlestick Patterns The bullish hammer candle is one of many bullish price patterns that can assist traders when entering a trade. Other bullish patterns traders should be aware of, include: morning star and the inverse head and shoulders among others. Day traders, however, incorporate the use of indicators and key levels of support and resistance, alongside candlesticks, to substantiate trades before entering. Other aides you can use to improve your trading include our free trading guides and for those just getting started, take a look at our New to FX guide. SCHENECTADY Maureen Neufeld had a decorated career in development for a host of historic local theaters when she decided to take on the lead SCHENECTADY Maureen Neufeld had a decorated career in development for a host of historic local theaters when she decided to take on the lead role in the ongoing revitalization efforts in downtown Schenectady. The former director of development at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall became the new executive director of the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC) in February, taking the reins from interim director Carney McGuire after former director Jim Salengo exited DSIC last August after 15 years. Neufeld, a Niskayuna resident, said the ability to connect directly to the local community in Schenectady drew her to accept her new post. Its been such an exciting place to be for the last several years, Neufeld said. More and more businesses are popping up, and I visit downtown pretty regularly. Im always looking to try new restaurants or to walk around and poke my head into shops. Its really been an exciting place to be for several years, and even in just the weeks that Ive been here Im finding more and more that I hadnt had a chance to visit before. Theres really a lot to do down here and everyones been so welcoming. Neufeld said she believes her previous experience as director of development at Park Playhouse [which manages Cohoes Music Hall] and the education coordinator at Albanys Palace Theatre will be beneficial in her new position in Schenectady. One of my favorite parts of each of those roles has been my relationship building, she said. A lot of those relationships can now continue in an entirely new capacity in this new role with DSIC. Having had touchpoints with different businesses, some which are located down here, there are so many local folks who want to invest in the community and want to see this region be as strong and powerful and vibrant as it can be, and I just love that. DSIC leads the efforts to beautify the downtown business district. The group opened the new Jay Square park last October across from City Hall. The public greenspace is located on the former site of 100-104 Jay St., where a fatal fire swept through two apartment buildings a decade ago, claiming the lives of four city residents. The organization organizes the annual Soup Stroll and Wing Walk culinary events, and is currently preparing to host the citys Restaurant Week from Feb. 26 to March 3, with the yearly event set to highlight local eateries by offering residents multicourse meals at a fixed price. Neufeld said her priority as DSIC director is to ensure that she is a community resource. I want to be here as a resource for business owners and property owners to help keep everything safe and beautiful and exciting downtown, she said. The DSIC has such an important role in elevating the position of the community, both through events that might bring some extra eyes to the downtown area for people that may not have spent a lot of time down here previously, but also to keep everything safe and fresh and beautiful to make sure that as youre walking around, you want to come back and visit. The new DSIC leader said she foresees a strong outlook for businesses downtown. I think downtown Schenectady is poised to be a great cultural destination and a hot spot for all different types of business and regional tourism and local tourism alike, Neufeld said. Id like downtown to be the point for book clubs and happy hours and all sorts of innovative business to think of bringing different branches. I think theres a lot on the horizon and the potential is really, really strong. Neufeld said that in her two decades of business experience, which began with a role in development at the Manhattan Theatre Club in 2006, she has learned that the key to success is listening to her peers and collaborators. I always try to listen before I talk, Neufeld said. I tend to have a lot of ideas about things and my brain gets very excited about new possibilities, but its so important to listen first and hear what people are actually saying, and to hear what folks actually need and to hear the history of whats happened before. I think its so important to prioritize listening over speaking, and formulating a plan from there. SCOTIA Despite his familys generational ties to 1st National Bank of Scotia, John Buhrmaster never thought hed spend his career in banking. He instead planned to enter the computer programming field after graduating Syracuse University in 1986, and even had a job lined up for the fall of that year. But while he waited to start his career, Buhrmaster took a part-time job as a teller at 1st National to tide him over. He never left. It wasnt what I expected, Buhrmaster said. In college you learn about banking from the macroeconomic perspective. ... But community banking is about relationships. It's about helping people at the best times of their life and the worst times of their life, or just a regular day. And it's about making people's lives better. I found that attractive. Today, Buhrmaster, 59, is president and CEO of 1st National Bank of Scotia, a position previously held by his father Louis, grandfather Kenneth and great-grandfather John, whom hes named after. Its a family legacy that can be traced to the 1930s the worst period of economic hardship in the countrys history and extends through an untold number of economic ups and downs in the nearly 10 decades since. The bank was founded in 1923 and celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. The Buhrmaster family remains majority owner of the bank, but answers to more than 300 shareholders who own a stake of the business. "The community has given our family everything we have in being able to raise our children in a wonderful place," Buhrmaster said. But there was a period when Buhrmaster didnt believe the bank would survive, let alone grow to the more than 35,000 customers across the country and roughly $660 million in total assets it has today. General Electric had begun pulling out of Schenectady in the 1970s, which brought tremendous losses for 1st National by the early 1980s, recalled Buhrmaster, who was a high school student at the time. His father worked to right the ship through a storm that included more than 1,900 cease-and-desist orders, a seemingly insurmountable challenge to most. At one point, 1st National was labeled a bank most likely to fail by some local media outlets. We are the only bank to make it through that, Buhrmaster said. My dad was going through that at the time I was in high school and college. He naturally was not encouraging me to come into the business. But while talking recently in his office atop the banks headquarters along Mohawk Avenue, Buhrmaster fondly recalled his nearly 40 years at the bank, a period that has seen him serve in every position from branch manager to the head of the banks credit, loan and collections departments. Hes done everything from helping to construct the banks former Albany Street branch in Schenectady in the 1990s, to helping digitize bank records, to implementing 1st Nationals online banking program in the 2000s. By his mid-30s Buhrmaster was tapped to be the banks vice president, a role that gave him a greater share of responsibility and ability to make decisions. I was far from the youngest person that had been promoted to that role. There were a number of folks around here over the years who have achieved that title at a younger age, he said. But it was the responsibility. Buhrmaster worked with his grandfather for a portion of his career and continues to work alongside his father, who chairs the banks board of directors an experience Buhrmaster said he wouldnt trade for the world. Ive been blessed, he said. Besides my wife, my dads my best friend. Hes been my mentor and role model. He and I dont agree on everything, yet he has been amazingly supportive in what I do. Buhrmasters daughter currently serves as a branch manager for the banks Niskayuna location a position he himself held in the early days of his career. Over the decades the Buhrmaster family has made a name for itself beyond 1st National. The family has served in roles with the Schenectady County Legislature and on school boards throughout the county, and continues to operate the Buhrmaster Energy Group established in 1913. Buhrmaster has made a name for himself outside the Capital Region, serving in various leadership roles with banking organizations throughout the country, including the Independent Bankers Association of New York State and Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus Community Bank Advisory Council. Last year he was elected the Class A director of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, a position Buhrmaster said was not something I was looking for, but which has allowed him a greater voice on issues relating to small businesses. He also spends hours mentoring other bankers and has worked for years trying to make financial literacy a graduation requirement in New York. Despite the busy schedule, Buhrmaster said he continues to maintain relationships with customers locally. My biggest takeaway is the value of being in a community that supports each other, Buhrmaster said. Ive been blessed. By the numbers $3.1 billion The amount of federal funding the company is expected to receive from an agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce, with $1.5 billion coming from CHIPS and Science Act funding and $1.6 billion in loans. $575 million In New York State Green CHIPS tax credits. $60 million The amount GlobalFoundries needs to invest in workforce development as part of its agreement with New York state. $30 million Infrastructure investment from New York state. $25 million The maximum invested between Empire State Development and federal workforce development training and related activities. 385,000-square-feet The size of the new Malta manufacturing facility. 9,000 Construction jobs created over the next decade. 1,500 Manufacturing jobs with the company created. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer holds up a silicon wafer used to produce chips at GlobalFoundries in Malta during an announcement of the first the first CHIPS award in New York, $1.5 billion, funded through his CHIPS & Science Law, Tuesday, Feb. 20 2024 at GlobalFoundries in Malta. On the afternoon of February 19th, at the banks of the Hengjiang River beneath Qiyun Mountain in Xiuning County, the Huangshan City Government Press Office held the third press conference for "Celebrating the Chinese New Year in Huizhou," where they excitedly announced 55 folk events to liven up the Lantern Festival. To highlight the unique local customs, intangible cultural heritage, and the traditional charm of the Lantern Festival, Huangshan City will host 55 distinctive and lively folk events during the Lantern Festival period, centered around the "five small beauties" concept: small exquisite items, quaint lodgings, delicious foods, delightful experiences, and beautiful sceneries. Among the 55 events, there will be a jubilant fireworks display by the Xin'an River and the much-anticipated Wangmantian fish lantern show, offering citizens and tourists an extraordinary Lantern Festival atmosphere. From January 18th (Laba Festival) to March 11th (the second day of the second lunar month), centered around themes "Our Festival - Joyfully Celebrating the Chinese New Year" and "Chinese New Year, Huizhou Flavor, Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Huizhou", Huangshan City planned around 200 cultural and tourism events such as climbing and playing in the snow, traditional festive performances, intangible cultural heritage experiences, New Year culinary delights, village gala, lantern fairs, and fireworks shows. As of February 18th, a total of 345 events had actually been held. It is understood that during the recent Spring Festival holiday, Huangshan City welcomed 5.8508 million visitors and achieved a total tourism revenue of 4.64 billion yuan, representing year-on-year increases of 50.02% and 89.5%, respectively. The rich variety of themed activities and tourism products have given Huangshan's culture and tourism industry a strong start to the year. Source: anhuinews.com King Charles II proclaimed in the Articles of War of 1661 that It is upon the Navy, under the good Providence of God, that the Wealth, Prosperity and Peace of these Islands depend. And he was absolutely right. In a rather moving moment in the 1958 film Dunkirk (so much better than the recent version), the camera lingers on these words, displayed in a Naval station, as weekend sailors, about to take part in the famous rescue of the British Army from the beaches of France, formally accept the authority of the Senior Service. For, while much is rightly made of the RAFs role in the Battle of Britain in 1940, it was in fact the Navy which saved the country from disaster, over and over again. The sea, our greatest defence, is worth perhaps 60 armoured divisions and saves us from maintaining a vast army like those of continental nations. But it is only a moat if we have a fleet to control it. Otherwise, the moat becomes an open door. Royal Navy destroyers smashed their German counterparts at Narvik in April 1940, with the superior seamanship, discipline and gunnery which had been maintained afloat during the long inter-war years while most people were asleep. Mortally wounded on the bridge of HMS Hardy, Captain Bernard Warburton-Lee tersely signalled to his fellow commanders Continue to engage the enemy before expiring without fuss, in the tradition of the service. But after that encounter, Hitlers fleet was no longer capable of escorting an invasion across the Channel, as it proved. They never even tried. In fact the Germans did not build a single landing craft. They knew that Operation Sealion would almost certainly be torn to pieces before it ever drew near the English coast. Destroyers were once again crucial at Dunkirk. The Little Ships did what they could, but it was the vulnerable workhorses of the Navy which made the evacuation possible. It was a near thing. Of the 176 destroyers with which Britain had started the Second World War, only 68 were still fit for service in home waters after the evacuation. Hence Churchills reluctant decision to cede bases to the USA (our first handover of national territory to the Americans since 1776) in return for 50 obsolete American warships. The rocket was successfully expelled from HMS Vanguards launch tube with a blast of gas and steam but the engines failed to ignite and it plopped embarrassingly into the Atlantic The rundown of the force in the years since has been deeply shocking, made worse by the embarrassing habit that our ships have developed of breaking down It would not be long before they were fully engaged in the Battle of the Atlantic, the merciless war against the U-boats which we so nearly lost that it was the only thing that kept Churchill awake with worry. I should mention here (because it is why I care so much about this subject) the Russian convoys in which my late father took part, which helped to ensure victory on the Eastern Front and which have rightly been described as the worst journey in the world. He wouldnt talk about it, except the brief, exhilarating moment when his ship was involved in the sinking of the German raider Scharnhorst. Even then he remembered with misgivings just how few of the German ships sailors they managed to rescue from the freezing sea. But note that above I say that only 68 destroyers remained fit for service by the summer of 1940. We now possess fewer than 20 comparable ships. You might say that we cannot possibly expect to have a Navy as big as we had in the days of Empire, and this is true. On D-Day in 1944, the Royal Navy managed to muster 900 British warships in the Channel, to support the invasion. That peak will obviously never be reached again. But the decline has gone far beyond what is justified by economy or common sense. Until the 1980s, when I worked as a defence reporter, it was a set rule that this country always maintained about 50 frigates and destroyers. The rundown of the force in the years since has been deeply shocking, made worse by the embarrassing habit that our ships have developed of breaking down. In 2016, expensive new destroyers failed because their engines could not cope with the warm waters of the Persian Gulf. Perhaps it was lucky that only six of the intended 12 were ever built. As we ceaselessly learn, they are not alone. The embarrassing repeated failures of the two vast new aircraft carriers are close to becoming a national joke and what are they for anyway? When they do put to sea they must borrow aircraft from the RAF and (even more troubling) from the US Marines. We lack the necessary vessels to escort and guard them. In a real war they would be targets rather than assets. And no serious effort is being made any more to keep a significant warship near the Falklands to deter another Argentine attack. If we lost the islands to a surprise invasion again, we simply do not possess the ships necessary to retake them. We are also losing the men and women without whom warships must be (and sometimes are) laid up uselessly in harbour. The problem is familiar to all our Armed Forces. Experienced people leave and are not replaced. The burden increases on those who remain, and so more of them quit. So the vital core of knowledge and discipline, on which the Navy would have to build in an emergency, is so small that it may not be able to cope. This foolish failure to prepare has been as bad among the Tories as it has in the Labour Party. Always short of money, they have preferred to spend the nations cash on almost anything else, and they will get away with it until the day when it is far too late. Now, not next year, is the time to address this. As Rudyard Kipling put it in another time Do ye wait for the spattered shrapnel ere ye learn how a gun is laid? For the low, red glare to southward when the raided coast-towns burn? (Light ye shall have on that lesson, but little time to learn.) And here we come to real difficulty. How can we pay for proper Armed Forces, good enough to deter any attacker, strong enough to defend us and keep our sea-lanes open if bad times come again? And the answer was provided on January 30 when for the second time in recent years, the launch of an American Trident missile from a British submarine failed. In June 2016, the missile veered off in the wrong direction and had to be destroyed. In the more recent episode, the rocket was successfully expelled from HMS Vanguards launch tube with a blast of gas and steam but the engines failed to ignite and it plopped embarrassingly into the Atlantic. Back in May 1994, I watched the first such (successful) launch from a nearby US Navy vessel off Cape Canaveral and was struck by the continued dependence of this country on the USA. I recalled a furious explosion of wrath from Mrs Thatcher some years before when an unwise civil servant told reporters (including me) that the missiles were in effect, leased from Washington, though the boats and warheads were ours. But the other problem is the gigantic cost of maintaining and renewing a system designed for a Cold War superpower. As leading military figures, such as the late Field Marshal Edwin Bramall, argued, the spending sucks the rest of the Defence budget dry. And in return for what? Israel, a country in much more danger than us, maintains a modest but effective nuclear deterrent without such a vast outlay. And I expect the Israeli weapons work. Do ours? It looks questionable. And can we continue to keep these delicate vessels at sea all the time? We only have one on patrol. It only takes one accident, and our fabled deterrent ceases to exist. Such an accident took place in February 2009, when HMS Vanguard bumped (at low speed) into a French nuclear missile submarine, Le Triomphant, while both were nosing silently around the surprisingly small area of the Eastern Atlantic where these boats generally lurk. Both subs returned to port, for major, costly repairs. Id prefer a proper navy that could frighten off a foe to this fantasy of global power that is probably unusable even if they can get the rockets to ignite. Just days from now, Wikileaks boss Julian Assange could be standing shackled on a British airfield preparing to board a plane to the US. Once he disembarks and the sound-proofed door of a supermax prison cell closes behind him, the man whos made himself Americas most wanted will finally be silenced. Lawyers fear the 52-year-old could be confined alone in a concrete coffin, a 12ft by 7ft chamber with a window 3ft high but just four inches wide, designed to ensure that the inmate has no view other than sky or wall. Inside it, his bed, desk and stool will be made of poured concrete too. Under this regime, meals are passed through a slot in the door and inmates use a stainless steel sink, toilet and shower inside their cell, meaning they dont even leave to eat or wash. Once every 24 hours, they are allowed out for an hour to exercise in a small, individually caged space, often sunken, like an empty swimming pool, to prevent them getting any sense of their bearings within the prison complex. A US 'supermax' jail like the one Assange could be held in Julian Assange is wanted in America for trial on 17 charges under the Espionage Act and one of conspiracy to commit computer intrusion A 2012 class-action lawsuit brought against Americas Federal Bureau of Prisons revealed how a sentence in this sort of facility tests the sanity of the toughest inmates. They interminably wail, scream and bang on the walls of their cells. Some mutilate their bodies with razors, shards of glass, sharpened chicken bones, writing utensils, and whatever other objects they can obtain. A number swallow razor blades, nail clippers, parts of radios and televisions, broken glass, and other dangerous objects. Security is, of course paramount. Both prisoners and their cells, which are constantly monitored by CCTV, are searched frequently. Outside, 12ft high walls topped with razor wire, turreted guard towers, floodlights, motion censors and dog patrols mean the likelihood of escape is minute. Most notorious of all is ADX Florence, an institution in Colorado nicknamed the Alcatraz of the Rockies, which was memorably described by one former warden as a clean version of hell. It was the possibility of Assange being entombed there, under what are known as special administrative measures (solitary confinement and the severest restrictions), that temporarily halted his extradition back in 2020. Now its back on and in its endgame following two climactic days of hearings in Londons High Court this week. Two judges, Dame Victoria Sharpe and Mr Justice Johnson, yesterday reserved their judgment pending further submissions from both sides. They are expected to rule on whether the extradition, originally agreed by former home secretary Priti Patel in 2022, can go ahead, or whether Assange has the right to another appeal, some time next month. Assange's wife Stella, centre, is the mother of his children, Gabriel, six, and Max, five If he loses, his lawyers could try to take his case to the European Court of Human Rights. In theory however, it would be possible for the British Government to facilitate his handover to America before the ECHR is able to order any stay on his extradition. Assange is wanted in America for trial on 17 charges under the Espionage Act and one of conspiracy to commit computer intrusion for publishing hundreds of thousands of confidential military documents and exposing multiple atrocities committed by American service people during the course of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. If convicted, he could face up to 175 years in prison a living death sentence, according to his wife Stella, the mother of his two youngest children, Gabriel, six, and Max, five. It would be catastrophic, she said yesterday. Our children are British, they are in school, their stability is here. Our contact with Julian would be severely restricted, potentially to one 15-minute call once a month. He would face barbaric conditions even before trial. He will not survive extradition to this kind of torture. This is the first time the 1917 Act has been used against a publisher or a journalist, turning the Assange case into a litmus test of press freedom in the 21st century. The publishers supporters also believe it poses serious questions about British sovereignty. His prosecution, they say, is politically motivated, and should not therefore be subject to the terms of the UK-US extradition treaty. Currently, Britain is only acting as jailer for the Americans, holding Assange in Londons maximum security prison Belmarsh. He was locked up there in 2019 after spending seven years in the Ecuadorian Embassy, where he had been granted asylum by the countrys Left-wing then-president Rafael Correa. (He entered the embassy in 2012 after being accused of sex crimes, including rape, by two women in Sweden. He denied the allegations and always believed the bid to prosecute him in Stockholm was a part of a US plot to secure an early extradition. Swedish prosecutors dropped the case for the third time in 2019.) I was the first journalist invited into the embassy for an interview to mark his first 100 days inside. I would return several times over the years and, when Assange and Stella wanted to reveal their engagement and the existence of their two secret sons, they asked me to break the story. Supporters of Julian Assange protest against his extradition to the United States at the Royal Courts of Justice in London The day I met him in 2012 he was wearing an embroidered Ecuadorian shirt and eating a celebratory lunch of ceviche (raw fish cured by lime juice and chilli) with embassy staff. He likened his life to living in a space station and joked about the bookmaker Paddy Power offering odds of 100-1 on him escaping with a jetpack, like some Bond villain. But his world was already closing in. By the time I went to see him ahead of the second anniversary of his asylum in 2014, he was clearly finding life harder. He had grown a snowy beard to help people mark the passage of time, he said, but under it he looked pale and weary. By then his distance vision was failing, he had a chronic lung condition exacerbated by the permanently air conditioned atmosphere, heart problems and soaring blood pressure. He had rigged up a blue sky lamp, which shone on to his ceiling and worked on a timer. Like a battery hen, he said. He longed to see sunshine and feel grass under his feet but I cant even keep a pot plant alive in here. When Metropolitan Police officers finally dragged him out in 2019, Assange looked wild-eyed, desperate and dishevelled. The extraordinary TV images which captured the moment were beneficial to the White House and the CIA because they kept the world firmly focussed on one polarising individual, not the principles of free speech and British sovereignty. He bore little resemblance to the cyber-world superstar who once told me how, in a bid to stop looking so pale beneath his ice-white hair during his embassy appearances, hed tried to tan his face with a UV lamp. Hed emerged beetroot and had to borrow a female friends make-up so that I didnt look like a Chernobyl victim, hed said, laughing at himself and his new and peculiar circumstances. In Belmarsh, he is locked in a 9 square metre cell for up to 23 hours a day. During one cold snap, he was reduced to boiling his kettle continuously to keep warm. He has been given a computer but without internet access and with most of its keyboard glued down. His only interaction with nature has been his practice of feeding breadcrumbs to a pair of mallard ducks nesting beneath his window. While inside, hes suffered a stroke and got married to Stella. Apart from that, he might as well have been tasered, hes been so incapacitated. During one of our early embassy interviews, I asked him how he would like to be remembered. He said: I wouldnt. Its more important to get things done than to be remembered for having done them. For the past five years his only achievement has been to survive and now, Stella believes, the next step, extradition, will kill him. America has countered global fears about inhumane treatment of Assange with diplomatic assurances that he would not be held in ADX Florence or placed in special administrative measures. However, since it caveated this by saying it reserved the right to row back on these assurances in future, the UNs special rapporteur on torture, Alice Jill Edwards, has joined Stella in speaking out in alarm from Geneva. There is no arguing with the necessity of an extradition treaty between nations which are allies and friends. But this case is about American hegemony and Wikileaks revealing hundreds of thousands of Americas dirty secrets. As the court heard on Tuesday from Mark Summers KC, the US has a track record of preparedness to use criminal prosecutions as a means of retaliation. It was 2010-2011 when Wikileaks released 700,000 documents provided by US defence intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning online. The cache of material exposed war crimes, torture and assassinations, including footage from the gunsight of US Apache helicopter Crazy Horse 1-8 which killed 11 people, civilians and journalists, in Baghdad in July 2007. The kill order heard on camera, Light em all up, led to carnage and caused global outrage. The US wants a supervillain locked up. But Assange is not the person who committed those crimes and it shouldnt be him who faces the possibility of life behind bars. Ex-BBC correspondent Jon Sopel mocks PM Rishi Sunak's speech to the National Farmers' Union in particular his decision to quote President Eisenhower's remark: 'Farming looks mighty easy when your plough is a pencil and you're a thousand miles from the corn field.' Eisenhower's words are the first to pop up on popular website BrainyQuote's list of farming quotes, Sopel gleefully suggests on his podcast: 'So someone at Downing Street has said, "What are we going to say about bloody farming? I know, go on BrainyQuote! First quote, Dwight D Eisenhower that'll do!"' Rishi Sunak addresses delegates during the National Farmers Union's annual conference yesterday Former BBC correspondent Jon Sopel pictured attending Global's Make Some Noise charity gala in November 2023 Prince William is thought to want substantial changes made to the accession process, the coronation and the role of monarchy. He has consulted 'relevant parties' and has been advised to wait until after a general election before putting them on a formal footing with, potentially, a new prime minister. Change is in the air but the pace won't be as leisurely as anticipated a few weeks ago. Apropos Prince William, while he usually keeps his political views under wraps some will suspect after his Gaza remarks that he harbours Leftish sentiments. On the other hand he was suspected of Tory bias by not inviting ex-Labour PMs Tony Blair and Gordon Brown to his 2011 wedding but including ex-Tory premier John Major, pictured above. He is said to have been angry that Sir Tony had recounted in a 2010 memoir a 1990s conversation in which Wills said he hated the 'prison walls' of his destiny. They're closing in as his hour approaches. Prince William, pictured at the British Red Cross HQ in London yesterday, has released an impassioned statement in which he says 'too many' have been killed' in the Gaza conflict Defending WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, Aussie-born London socialite Kathy Lette announces: 'Bring him home to Oz. As convict stock, we instinctively admire people who have the courage of their convictions.' Name-dropping Kathy says she and her lawyer ex-spouse Geoffrey Robertson remember 'hiding Assange in our attic' in their north London home, adding: 'I often visited him in the Ecuadorian embassy. I took along Ruby Wax and Pamela Stephenson.' Sarah Ferguson, former wife of the Duke of York, is co-chairman of the Global Citizen action NOW summit in Melbourne on March 4 to 6, with the aim of ending extreme poverty and climate issues. 'All my life I have lived and loved being outside enjoying every moment,' Fergie said. 'I'm coming to Global Citizen NOW: Melbourne to participate in vital intergenerational conversations with young leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region,' Isn't life grand? Sarah Ferguson , former wife of the Duke of York, is co-chairman of the Global Citizen action NOW summit in Melbourne on March 4 to 6 Pop is largely created on computers now apparently but veteran drummer Brian Bennett provides a flavour of the 1960s band scene. He says he regrets being enticed to join The Shadows, recalling: 'We ended 1964 in panto Aladdin at the Palladium. I got pushed through a mangle by (comic) Arthur Askey (b1900) twice a day. I hadn't signed up for that! Later we played the working men's clubs horrible places. Some guy would get up and say, "Here we are, then. They're not my cup of tea, but I hope you like them The Shadows!"' Taylor Swift never has to endure this kind of treatment I'm sure. A mother has revealed her anger at being told her son, nine, isn't allowed to get changed alongside her in the female changing rooms at his private swim school. Speaking to MailOnline anonymously in a bid to highlight a scenario she says many women with young sons face, she says she was shocked to be told that her son would have to use the male changing rooms alone. She claims when she responded that she wasn't comfortable with her Year 5 son getting undressed away from her, she was told to 'bring a man' to accompany him in future. Before the incident at the weekend, the parent, who was married to her son's father but is now in a same-sex relationship, would regularly take her son to 14-a-session lessons, which take place at a school with separate male and female changing rooms. She says the swimming lessons provider in Hertfordshire won't allow boys in the female changing area after they turn eight The furious mother told MailOnline that a manager told her and her son that he would no longer be allowed to use the female changing room at the Hertfordshire swim school because he was 'over eight' CHANGING ROOMS: WHAT ARE THE RULES? Last year, Britain's equality watchdog ruled that schools are legally obliged to provide separate changing rooms according to biological sex Many swimming and leisure facilities across the UK have increasingly opted for mixed changing areas in recent decades to allow parents with young children to stay together when getting changed. However, parents attending leisure activities at school facilities will often only find changing rooms that are designated male or female. Britain's equality watchdog ruled in September 2023 that schools are legally obliged to provide separate changing rooms according to biological sex. Ahead of a review on how schools should deal with transgender pupils, the Equality and Human Rights Commission said teachers who allow children to use toilets and changing rooms according to their chosen 'gender identity' rather than their biological sex risk breaching the law and could face legal action. Advertisement 'We were told that under no circumstances was my son allowed into the female changing area, and when we suggested one of us would take him into the male changing area, that wasn't allowed either,' she explained. The mother told MailOnline that it's the first time she's faced the issue and that she's never had a problem elsewhere including using public toilets. She said UK swimming and leisure providers should provide alternative facilities if they don't want boys in the female changing areas. Reading past stories about children being sexually assaulted or raped in changing rooms because they were unsupervised has made her determined that her son would remain by her side in such instances, she added. 'I'm not prepared to let any of my sons go unattended in a changing room where I can't see them when they're getting undressed. Anyone can walk into the grounds, and into the changing rooms.' When asked if alternative facilities could be provided, the swim school manager said there weren't any - and that the two women would have to 'bring a male' next time. The mother told MailOnline: 'He's nine, he's not into girls or gawping. As much as we want to, he just wants to get dried and dressed and out of the changing rooms. 'He's not a confident, outgoing boy and he still heavily relies on his parents. Of course, he can get himself dried and changed but I don't want him doing that in front of a load of strangers without us.' The family have now terminated their nine-year-old's swimming contract as a result - but face not also being able to take their other younger sons to the same venue, because the nine-year-old would have to wait outside. She says having strictly segregated changing rooms for men and women feels outdated, saying: 'It's a common problem nationwide, and it needs to be addressed'. Many leisure facilities have increasingly opted for mixed changing areas in recent years to tackle such issues - but swimming schools that use school facilities often only provide changing rooms designated male or female. Britain's equality watchdog, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), ruled in September that schools are legally obliged to provide separate changing rooms according to biological sex. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said that teachers that allow children to use toilets and changing rooms according to their chosen 'gender identity' rather than their biological sex risk breaching the law and could face legal action. The issue of segregated toilets in schools remains a hot topic: in August last year, five teenage girls wrote to the Prime Minister urging him to keep single-sex toilets in schools to guarantee female pupils' safety and dignity. (File image) In August last year, five teenage girls wrote to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak urging him to keep single-sex toilets in schools to guarantee female pupils' safety and dignity. In an open letter, the students who are aged between 13 and 15 called on Rishi Sunak to tackle the issue head on when the Government issues its long-awaited transgender guidance to schools. The girls who used only their first names to sign their letter for fear of a backlash from trans activists said single-sex facilities were an 'essential safeguarding feature' of schools. Groups of TikTokers self-titled as 'therians' are hosting meet-ups across the UK for those who identify as animals. The term therian refers to people who identify as non-human animals on a deep level and engage in behaviours associated with their animal identity. They differ from furries, who see their animal persona as a character, while therians innately feel animal characteristics. Teenagers have been filming themselves coming home from school and finding relief at being able to express their 'real' animal persona again, while others have posted guides to 'coming out' to parents. Some therians even claim they experience 'shift' impulses to behave like their animal selves, where they temporarily get taken over by their instincts, and post videos of themselves on all fours or connecting with nature. One therian on TikTok posted a video of themselves 'shifting' as they claimed to behave like their 'animal self' One TikTok account, called @.fern_.the.therian, shows a group of therians running through fields of grass and throwing their masks and tails in the air. Another, based in Reading in the UK, posted a video of themselves leaping onto a chair, while wearing a fluffy tail and animal mask. They said: 'I caught a shift! It's my first time since my therian awakening two to three years ago, and even this one was tiny! 'This was the animalistic behaviours I was experiencing, I knew where I was and that I was filming but I couldn't control it much. Shift incoming!' Therians have been hosting meet-ups throughout the UK, where they can meet like-minded souls, advertising where they live on TikTok. The groups have even put their own spin on 'day in the life' videos, showing them collecting rainwater overnight, reading books about nature and watering plants - all while wearing an animal mask. Some TikTok users express their identities by adopting a cat mask or wolf mask, depending on which animal they feel an affinity with. But there are also 'polytherians' who identify as multiple species, while 'paleotherians' even identify as extinct animals. Therians usually wear a mask of the animal they identify with and a tail, and feel they are especially attuned to nature They adopt animal-like movements, including leaping through the air and showing off their walk, trots and canters Therians have been hosting meet-ups throughout the UK after finding each other and posting adverts on TikTok Schools have seen a rise of children identifying as 'therians', as they identify as animals among their classmates The therian community insist they are different from furries, as they identify as the animal, rather than seeing it as a character TikTok commenters seemed divided between identifying with the therians or found the concept strange Therians are a subculture of Otherkins, who identify as partially or entirely human. They say they feel especially attuned to nature, while others identify using the term 'transspecies'. Commenting on one video of a therian meet-up, one social media user couldn't help exclaiming: 'I WANT THERIAN FRIENDS SO BAD!' while another admitted: 'This is how I feel I just don't know how to tell anyone'. But others said they needed 'therapy' and noted 'This isn't normal.' One commented: 'Maybe in another universe humans wouldn't think they're animals,' while another said: 'What has our generation come to oh my god.' In June last year, Britain's toughest headteacher Katharaine Birbalsingh warned that children identifying as cats were wearing 'tails and ears' in class. She cautioned that adult authority over pupils was 'long gone' as more and more children were allowed to identify as animals at school. She said: Do you know that some kids identify as 'furries'? Therians on TikTok have revealed their parents' reactions to being told about their true identity One therian was even amazed at finding animal masks in Poundland, to help adopt the animal identity Britain's toughest headteacher Katharine Birbalsingh claimed in June there were more cases of children identifying as animals in schools Elon Musk is correct - you all have no idea just how bad things are in schools and you ignore the vital and crucial roles schools play in shaping our societys culture. There are kids right now, in some schools, with tails and ears pinned to their heads and bottoms. This isnt fancy dress, they identify as cats, you see. Kids arent allowed to wear trainers to school but they are allowed to wear ears and tails because thats their chosen identity. Thats how they feel they belong. Adult authority is long gone. Meanwhile others have been allowed to identify as cats, horses and dinosaurs, with teachers 'failing to question them'. That month, a 13-year-old girl was also branded 'despicable' by her teacher for rejecting her classmate's claim that she identified as a cat. At a state secondary school in Wales, one student was said to 'meow' when asked questions by a teacher, rather than answering in English, the Telegraph reported. In other schools, one apparently insisted on being addressed as a dinosaur, one claimed to identify as a horse while another was said to wear a cape and demanded to be acknowledged as a moon. Boots has come under fire after a shopper snapped a picture of its clothing range for toddler boys, featuring mostly shades of blue. Sophie Bartlett, a parent and primary school teacher shared a picture of the Mothercare range in the Cheltenham branch on social media. In the line, labelled as 'toddler', the store lacked much variety in the colours on offer, apart from some orange shorts. In addition, designs focused purely on dinosaurs, trucks and diggers. Sophie wrote: 'To whoever designs the toddler boy clothes for @mothercareuk in @bootsuk - you do realise there at least 37 other colours that exist???????' Sophie Bartlett, a parent and primary school teacher from the UK, sparked debate after posting a picture of Boots' Mothercare toddler range on social media She added: 'Yes I know there are other shops. Yes I know I could buy from the girls section. Yes I know there are also issues with girls clothes. Sometimes were allowed to focus on one problem at a time.' Clothing stores have increasingly shied away from traditional colours of 'pink for girls' and 'blue for boys' in recent years, as shoppers seek to make more diverse choices for clothing. Mothercare launched a gender-neutral clothing range for children back in 2017, before the babywear chain was sold in Boots stores when it fell into administration in 2019. Sophie's picture sparked debate and racked up more than 5,000 likes, and while some were unhappy at the limited range, others argued there are plenty more places to shop for more diverse options. One Twitter user said: 'Why are they still doing girl and boy clothes? Girls like diggers and dinosaurs, boys like glitter and rainbows. No? However another pointed out: 'They seem to just be labelled "toddler". Not denying pushing harmful gender stereotypes from a young age exists and is bad, but what's stopping you buying these for a girl?'' Clare Willett, who runs the business Not Only Pink And Blue, which is all about gender stereotypes, told FEMAIL about changing perceptions around colour and clothing. She said: 'There is a real mix when it comes to pink and blue. Its still the default when you look at gender reveal parties but when it comes to nurseries parents are looking more neutral. Sophie sparked debate online, as one social media user asked: 'Why are they still doing girl and boy clothes?' 'The high streets are still very pink/blue (or pastel/darker colours) driven if you look at their clothing for babies and children. 'We find that people are looking for bright fun colours in kids clothes which they find hard to get on either side of the aisle. 'Parents are getting more frustrated with not being able to find the type of clothes, illustrations, and colours their children love in the relevant section of the shop. 'Even young children know the cues for the boys/girls side of the shop and often dont want clothes that they know arent "for" them.' Meanwhile Lisa Ingram, who owns organic cotton business Little Leaf Organic, said she only designed gender neutral clothes when it launched seven years ago, in part due to the trend away from the use of stereotypical colours for girls and boys. On its website, although Mothercare still divides its clothing into 'boys clothes' and 'girls clothes', there is a much wider range of colours and designs. Health, beauty and pharmacy chain Boots began to stock Mothercare products in 2019. 'In Boots, another much-loved British heritage brand, we believe that Mothercare has found the right home in the UK,' said chief executive Mark Newton-Jones at the time. In 2017, Mothercare launched a 'gender neutral' clothing line (pictured) fronted by Myleene Klass In 2017, Mothercare launched a gender-neutral clothing line for boys and girls designed by Myleene Klass. Items in the unisex collection featured pandas, slogan T-shirts and were designed to be worn by all genders. It mainly featured black, white, grey and yellow shades - avoiding the traditional colours of pink and blue. Louise Duncum, a personal stylist at Weiz Styles, told FEMAIL: 'Blue only became known as a colour for boys after clever marketing, and was used as a way to sell more clothes during the baby boom at the end of World War II. 'In the same way, pink became associated with girls because of the rise in popularity of Barbie and other such toys of the time. So, this perception of colour can surely be changed again! 'Many parents have more than one child, so it is much more valuable and sustainable to re-use the same kidswear for each child they have. The impact of feeling a need to only buy blue for boys and pink for girls doesnt serve this and ends up becoming a financial burden and very unsustainable too. 'In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift away from traditional gender-specific colours, like blue for boys and pink for girls, in the realm of fashion and retail, as well as consumer purchasing decisions. This change is part of a wider movement towards breaking down traditional gender norms and encouraging more inclusivity. 'Pink and blue are now being used for both genders, in order to provide greater inclusivity in clothing options for all individuals, regardless of gender. This isn't just seen in kidswear, but also mens and womens clothing options too.' A Boots spokesperson said: 'The Mothercare range of boys clothing stocked at Boots comes in a variety of colours, however we accept that this store display does not demonstrate the full assortment of colours available. 'We will work harder to ensure our store displays show a broader colour choice. Customers can also shop the full range online at boots.com.' Another form is 'bed rotting' but involves spending longer stretches in bed Shorter bursts of lounging in bed are known as 'hurkle durkle' Experts in sleep and neurology have come forward with recommendations for how long it's acceptable to lay in bed after waking up in the morning. A trio of doctors spoke to The New York Times about the newly christened phenomenon of 'bed rotting' - when one spends an excessive amount of time lying in, usually on one's phone. For shorter bursts of lounging in bed, the behavior is also known as 'hurkle durkle' - a Scottish term that's gone viral on TikTok as a way to characterize the tendency of idling between the sheets for varying stretches of time after one's alarm goes off. According to Dr. Eleanor McGlinchey, a sleep psychologist at Manhattan Therapy Collective and associate professor of psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University, staying in bed lends a feeling of 'agency' in the face of a hectic schedule. A trio of experts spoke to The New York Times about the pros and cons of 'bed rotting' - lying in for extended periods - and indulging in 'hurkle durkle'-style lounging post-alarm But there's a limit to what actually feels relaxing. 'For some people, picking up their phones and scrolling email or turning on the news while in bed makes them more stressed,' Dr. McGlinchey told the Times. 'So now you've lazed around in bed and feel worse.' She went on to stress that people should move through their actions, or lack thereof, with 'purpose.' 'I tell people to do whatever they are going to do on purpose,' the doctor elaborated. 'Don't be at the mercy of notifications that come in overnight. Be intentional with the time.' It's also important for those who struggle with insomnia to avoiding training their body to lie in bed awake, according to Dr. Alcibiades J. Rodriguez, a neurologist and medical director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center-Sleep Center at NYU Langone Health. Dr. Marjorie Soltis, a sleep medicine specialist and an assistant professor of neurology at Duke University School of Medicine, also chimed in. Dr. Marjorie Soltis encourages readers to above all 'listen to your body' 'If you wake up and feel good and this is part of your routine, you don't have to stop,' she said, adding the disclaimed: 'But I think 30 minutes is a good threshold.' She further encouraged people to 'listen to your body If you feel better after resting a bit, you may be getting some benefit, even though it's not the same as sleep.' For bed rotting more generally, Dr. McGlinchey deemed it an acceptable way to cope with burnout - in moderation, that is. 'If you want to stay in bed for the day because you are feeling burnout, do it, and don't feel bad about it,' she offered. 'But if it starts to make you feel depressed or anxious or leads you to call out of work and become less functional, then you need to pull back.' Overall, Dr. Rodriguez emphasized, 'enjoying your bed is a good thing.' Last week, DailyMail.com did a deep dive into the 'hurkle durkle' trend, the hashtag for which has racked up millions of views on TikTok. As one commenter put it, 'Adding this to my list of hobbies.' And, in May of last year, DailyMail.com explored how 'bed rotting' is becoming the internet's preferred method of 'self care.' A former Mormon couple has opened up about how they maintained their marriage after the husband came out as a transgender woman - despite admitting that they lost several friends from within the strict religion as a result. Amanda and Shaye Scott, from Utah, both grew up in Mormon families and began their romance when they were just 15 years old. However, while their dedication to one another has only grown stronger since Shaye, 39, came out as trans, they admit that her decision prompted them to quit the ultra-strict religion, revealing how it triggered a 'faith deconstruction'. Although happily married and a parent to three kids, Shaye, 39, said she's known she was transgender since she was three. However, she had never been able to properly articulate how she truly felt - until coming across the phrase 'gender dysphoria' online in 2019. Shaye Scott, 39, began HRT in 2023. The 39-year-old says she has known she's transgender since she was three Amanda and Shaye (pictured on their wedding day) have been together since they were 15-year-old - and continue to love each other Instantly, she knew it described exactly how she felt - despite hesitation around how it would affect her three children and her wife. However, knowing that she couldn't hide her true self, she chose to be honest with her wife, and was overjoyed when Amanda voiced her full support, with the pair deciding to pursue their marriage in a new way. Shaye adopted she and her pronouns and started hormone replacement therapy - HRT - to help alleviate her gender dysphoria. 'After coming out in 2019 it started out with doing nothing and then I eventually decided to do hormone replacement therapy, but I had no intention of socially transitioning,' Shaye recalled. 'But throughout therapy and talking to Amanda we decided to schedule a date with a surgeon for a year later.' In 2023, Shaye decided to undergo social transition and have facial feminization surgery. Amanda, who works as an English teacher, added that she finds Shaye presenting as a female is 'beautiful', noting that she has become more 'fluid' in her attractions since her partner came out. Shaye adopted she and her pronouns and started on hormone replacement therapy -HRT - to help alleviate her gender dysphoria After Shaye came out to her, Amanda decided to stay with her long-term partner - and says she has become more 'fluid' in what she's attracted to Shaye decided it was time to tell Amanda how she felt, and was thrilled when Amanda was supportive if her news- embarking on their new relationship 'It's been a journey of discovery for both of us,' she admitted. 'The narrative around having a spouse come out like this is people think it's deceptive but a lot of the time people just don't have the language to express themselves,' she pointed out. Shaye agreed, saying they've become closer as a couple, despite being such a 'raw and difficult' situation - but says it was never a question of if they'd stay together. 'We've known each other since we were kids and she's my person,' Shaye said fondly. 'I wouldn't want to do anything to hurt her and vice versa,' she continued. 'One of the biggest things for me throughout this was the emphasis put on attraction - would Amanda still be attracted to me?' However, while the pair's relationship has gone from strength-to-strength, they admit that Shaye coming out prompted them to rethink their connection to the Mormon Church, with the pair ultimately deciding to quit the religion. 'Coming to terms with being transgender started a faith deconstruction for us,' they explained. The couple eventually decided to tell their kids about Shaye's transition and Amanda says their eldest began using Shaye's pronouns without being asked. '0ur daughter started using she/her pronouns without asking,' Amanda said proudly. 'Our two youngest, our boys, have been amazing with it. And they talk about it so comfortably because they're so comfortable with Shaye.' The couple eventually decided to tell their kids about Shaye's transition and Amanda says their eldest began using Shaye's pronouns without being asked (Shaye Scott pictured before having facial feminization surgery in April 2023) Shaye and Amanda said they've become closer as a couple, despite being such a 'raw and difficult' situation - but says it was never a question of if they'd stay together 'The kids have been amazing.' Amanda gushed. 'They love people for people and we've tried to be very sensitive to their feelings.' The couple says they think they've been 'so strong' because they have felt secure that their family unit would be okay. 'All [the kids] got was a more authentic person of me, they haven't lost anything,' Shaye shared, adding their therapist said they're kids will be fine as long as as they're told what's going on. However, their Mormon background means they have lost friends along the way but say their families have mostly been supportive. 'The tenets of these religions are about doing good to others but for whatever policy reasons that doesn't always extend to all,' Amanda reflected sadly. 'There's also so many religious people who chose the people first thing. 'That's the crux of sometimes what is unfortunate about religion. 'Goodness is put in a box and looks a certain way. 'Change is hard for people and it's been a process but I think we're in a pretty good place with our families at the moment,' Amanda shared. 'It was challenging for them at the start but as time has gone on they've become more loving and accepting,' Shayne added. Amanda also acknowledged that not everyone could stay together like she and Shaye did - but she loves her regardless of her gender. 'It doesn't work that way for everybody and that's totally acceptable but for me, Shaye is my person and every marriage has challenges but when you have that love and commitment to each other then it works,' Amanda said simply. Starbucks has released a new pork latte to mark Lunar New Year, complete with a savoury sauce and a chunk of meat resting on top. The drink, available in about 25 Starbucks brances in China, mixes espresso and steamed milk with Dongpo braised pork sauce. The unusual combination is garnished with a square slice of pork and has an 'interesting flavour' according to the coffee chain. The drink, which retails at around 68 yuan (7.50), is dubbed the 'Abundant Year Savory Latte.' Braised pork is considered a staple food during Lunar New Year celebrations. Pork is representative of 'a rich, prosperous life', 'wealth', 'strength', and 'abundant blessings'. US coffee chain Starbucks has released its new pork latte to mark the Lunar New Year in China Dongpo rou is a popular dish that often shows up on dinner tables during Chinese New Year festivities in southern China. It's made from braised pork belly, rock sugar, soy sauce, yellow wine and other seasonings, and is named after the ancient poet, painter and statesman Su Dongpo. Promotional images posted on Chinese social media platform Weibo by the Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery, showed a drizzle of dark red sauce on the latte foam with a square slice of pork on a skewer resting on the mug rim. 'Eating meat means prosperity in the coming year,' the Starbucks captioned the post ahead of the Lunar New Year. Starbucks Reserve stores across China have vowed to bring 'traditional New Year customs into coffee', according to The Telegraph. The popular coffee chain also reportedly unveiled plans to sell a Red Date Rice Flavor Macchiato, a Fortune Almond Macchiato and a Black Sesame Latte as part of their Chinese New Year menu. China has the biggest branded coffee shop market in the world, according to a report released by World Coffee Portal, having overtaken the United States last year. The drink, available in about 25 Starbucks across China, mixes espresso and steamed milk with Dongpo braised pork sauce The report stated that China has long been one of the most important growth drivers for Starbucks and the US coffee chain is targeting 9,000 stores in the country by 2025. According to Chinese tradition, 2024 will celebrate the Wood Dragon, which is said to foster progress, growth and abundance. In Chinese culture, the Dragon symbolises talent, power and excellence meaning 2024 is forecast to be a year for change, opportunity and challenges. The date of Lunar New Year varies slightly from year to year, this year kicking off on February 10. The dragon is the fifth of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac, which includes the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and the pig. The unusual combination is garnished with a square slice of pork, and has an 'interesting flavour' according to the coffee chain The celebration happens throughout Asia, and is a national holiday in South Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, North Korea and Taiwan. Unlike the Roman calendar new year, the lunar new year changes, although it usually falls between January 21 and February 20. Those celebrating Chinese New Year mark the occasion by buying presents, clothing, food and decorations embracing popular themes such as wealth, happiness and good fortune. Each of the 15 days has a particular role, and often those taking part in celebrations will abide by the traditional beliefs according to each day. The first day is often set aside for people to honour the elders within their families, whereas the third day is generally accepted as a bad day to socialise with relatives or friends. The final day of the Chinese New Year is traditionally marked by a Lantern Festival when people walk through the streets carrying lanterns and light candles outside their homes. It is tradition to cleanse a house of all ill-fortune and to try to reconcile with others, removing negativity from your life. Observers of Chinese New Year traditionally decorate with the colour red, as it is thought to be lucky. People often send red envelopes to their nears and dears and it is one of the most cultural significant celebrations for China. It has been estimated that over two billion people celebrate the festival, which is also called Lunar New Year, worldwide. London has the largest Chinese New Year festivities outside of Asia and thousands of revellers come to admire the colourful processions. A new BBC Three drama set in a prestigious private school is gearing to shock viewers. New show Boarders, which aired last night, follows the lives of five Black scholarship students from London who attend St Gilbert's - portrayed as an ostentatious school filled with outdated traditions. Jaheim, Leah, Omar, Femi and Toby are forced to endure microaggressions, stereotypes and bizarre initiation ceremonies typically associated with elite institutions as part of the school's PR move to appear more progressive - after a group of pupils caused scandal when they filmed themselves pouring champagne over a sleeping homeless man. And the first episode alone is filled with wild scenes, including a baffling initiation dubbed 'the running of the balls', rumours of a secret society worshipping a satirical cartoonist and swathes of people asking the main characters if they sell drugs. The programme also doesn't hold back on biting dialogue to exemplify how archaic and cliche St Gilbert's is. WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AT PRIVATE SCHOOL? EMAIL EIRIAN.PROSSER@DAILYMAIL.CO.UK A new BBC Three drama set in a prestigious private school is gearing to shock viewers. Pictured: Pupils in the show readying for a naked running initiation ceremony On the way to the school, charismatic class clown Toby, played by Sekou Diaby, jokingly declares: 'You have not lived the full private school experience if you don't came back with an STI and a coke habit.' Elsewhere in the first few minutes of the show, antagonist and bully Rupert (Harry Gilby) - who was behind the horrific homeless man video - dismissively greets the group as 'the scholarships'. The episode also sees the teens in conflict with the Head Master over a racist painting of the school's founder, which he is unwilling to take down. Another storyline sees obliviously ignorant students asking the school's new Black pupils if they sell drugs, and asking for a 'gram' of 'creps' - which they mistake for narcotics, instead of being London slang for shoes. Femi - played by Aruna Jalloh - is also encouraged to join the 'Rah'scals' and take part in an initiation ceremony that sees him and other boys running naked along the corridors. Elsewhere, talented artist Omar (Myles Kamwendo) rummages through rubbish in attempt to join a secret society dedicated to a satire cartoonist. Jaheim, played by Josh Tedeku, is at one point also attacked by Rupert, as another student films the bully kick him and then urinate over his face. In its review of the series, James Jackson, for The Times, wrote: 'The Bullingdon Club has nothing on St Gilbert's, a place that, when it's not being abysmally toxic, is presented as just a bit ridiculous with its arcane traditions... and contrived 'diversity days'.' Elsewhere in the first few minutes of the show, antagonist and bully Rupert (Harry Gilby) - who was behind the horrific homeless man video (portrayed in the show) - dismissively greeting the group as 'the scholarships' Elsewhere talented artist Omar (Myles Kamwendo) rummages through rubbish in attempt to join a secret society dedicated to a satire cartoonist Another storyline sees obliviously ignorant students asking the school's new Black pupils if they sell drugs, and asking for a 'gram' of 'creps' - which they mistake for narcotics, instead of being London slang for shoes Jaheim, played by Josh Tedeku, is at one point also attacked by Rupert, as another student films the bully kick him and then urinate over his face The programme also doesn't hold back on biting dialogue to exemplify how archaic and cliche St Gilbert's is He also references other parts of the show - including a scene in episode two where, in order to go to a party instead of studying, Femi's roommate encourages him to buy an essay online - written by 'boffins on the other side of the globe who are trying to feed their families. Bless'. The show's writer, Daniel Lawrence Taylor - who is also behind the BAFTA-nominated Timewasters - told the BBC that his depiction of St Gilbert's was inspired by conversations he had with friends who had attended private schools. 'It was the kind of thing that you'd imagine - the kind of microaggressions and incidents - but the main one was code switching and learning how to survive in that environment,' he told the outlet. Jaheim, Leah, Omar, Femi and Toby are forced to endure microaggressions, stereotypes and bizarre initiation ceremonies typically associated with elite institutions. Pictured from left to right: Aruna Jalloh as Femi, Jodie Campbell as Leah, Myles Kamwendo as Omar and Sekou Diaby as Toby Daniel - who also plays Gus, the teenagers' mentor - said they 'never shy away' from difficult moments in the show. Omar and Toby pictured in class 'I think there'll be a universal appeal to the show because we all have to code switch in some way, shape or form, to survive in life.' He also revealed that the narrative of the series was in part shaped by his own time as a student at Royal Holloway, University of London, which was 'predominantly white, predominantly middle class and it was like a proper culture shock'. Daniel - who also plays Gus, the teenagers' mentor - said they 'never shy away' from difficult moments in the show, especially depicting how places like St Gilbert's can be as academically rewarding as they are challenging socially. Daniel also revealed that the narrative of the series was in part shaped by his own time as a student at Royal Holloway, University of London. Femi pictured in his room The show's writer, Daniel Lawrence Taylor - who is also behind the BAFTA-nominated Timewasters - told the BBC that his depiction of St Gilbert's was inspired by conversations he had with friends who had attended private schools. Pictured: Josh Tedeku as Jaheim Audiences have already been impressed by the series, and are already demanding more on social media Jodie Campbell, who plays Leah - the only woman in the scholarship group - told the Radio Times that she feels it's 'an important watch'. 'Showing the education system where institutionalised racism is really there, to depict that for people who haven't experienced it in a way that's not too 'in your face', it's not like it's preaching to you, it's more palatable,' she explained. 'But it's still being very serious about the issues. 'I feel like Boarders is a piece of art that can make people aware so they can make these institutions change in the future, hopefully. Visibility is so important.' Audiences have already been impressed by the series, and are already demanding more. 'Ok I need more people to get onto #Boarders on BBC3/iplayer please and thank you. I need a second season like next month.' '#Boarders on BBC is pretty good,' another added. 'Toby is my fave, exceptional acting.' A third penned: 'Watched #Boarders on BBC last night and it highlights the pretence of elite schools and breeding people to be future leaders through a childhood detached from real life and responsibility.' Some viewers have even admitted that it's 'triggering' to see a 'visceral' portrayal of their own experiences in academic institutions. A TikTok star has revealed she is quitting being a full-time influencer to apply for corporate jobs after realising she had become 'self-obsessed'. Ana Wolfermann, who is currently based in New York, began posting on social media in 2020 and turned it into her full-time career after graduating from the University of Notre Dame in May 2023. The influencer, 22, has now racked up almost one million followers on her TikTok account, posting lifestyle, travel and advice videos. She even recently attended a Galentine's Day slumber party with Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown and is often gifted brand trips. But after nearly a year of being a full-time 'influencer', Ana has revealed that her dream has not lived up to expectations and she has started to write cover letters for corporate jobs. TikToker Ana Wolfermann revealed why is quitting her full-time job as an influencer to become a 'corporate girly' Posting on TikTok, Ana told her followers in a video: 'Let's talk about why, I'm kind of nervous today, I made the decision that I don't want to be a full-time influencer. 'Number one, Im tired of making everything about myself. My job requires me to look at myself, talk about myself, post myself, and reply to comments about myself. It is way too much of a self-obsessive job. 'Number two, I don't feel like I'm learning anything new or that I'm being challenged. Yes you learn how to get better at strategy and marketing... but I feel like that gets a little bit repetitive. 'I feel like since I graduated and I've been doing this full time, I haven't done anything with my brain. 'Number three, having this as my full-time job has made me much more superficial. On TikTok, you have to talk in short sentences. Ive learned to not elaborate on my idea, which for years of my academic life, I was taught to elaborate on points. 'I'm spending all of my time talking about myself and taking pictures of myself and editing myself. That's not the life I want to live.' Ana went on to explain that she would still be posting online, but would be doing so alongside getting a full-time job as a 'corporate girly'. Despite social media providing her main source of income, she said she hopes to become a more well-rounded person by taking on a regular job. @anawolfermann im about to become a corporate america girly who also does social media purrrrr original sound - Ana Wolfermann Ana, 22, explained that constantly thinking about herself for social media had left her becoming 'self-obsessed' She later posted an update video on Monday, which was captioned: 'Deromanticising your dream of being a full-time influencer because there are SO many better ways to use your time.' The Venezuelan-American social media star said she had spent the weekend writing cover letters, and had even landed her first interview. Ana realised how much influencing had been impacting her life after taking a three-day trip to Chicago in which she didn't post on social media for the first time in three years. She explained: 'That was the first time in three years I was able to go on a vacation and not feel anxious that I wasn't being productive. 'It was liberating. Usually my time is divided between me existing and then me posting about my existence. On this trip, I lived.' She added that she had even finished reading Normal People by Sally Rooney in just two days, saying: 'I liked it! I can see why people do the whole reading thing.' Her video 'three reasons why I'm quitting being a full-time influencer' has now attracted 1.6 million views on TikTok. Many of her fans were positive about seeing a different perspective from usual from an influencer, as one commented: 'As a consumer of content, I think influencers are so much more relatable to me when they have a job outside of their content!' Many of Ana's fans were supportive, but others doubted how she would hold up in the corporate world A second added: 'This is so self-aware', while a third said: 'Ive never heard another content creator talk about this.' Others were more doubtful about how Ana would react once she actually landed a job. One TikTok commenter added: 'Girl I promise this job is so much better than corporate america. youll understand once you start a real job.' And one said on Twitter: 'Would be interested to see her thoughts after a year of a 9-5 (if she makes it that long) lol.' The Gen2 Tritan Renew Bottles are available in new shades Lavender Purple and Cobalt Blueberry AirUp has launched three leak-proof bottles featuring a straw and a new mouthpiece for instant flavour activation - to the delight of fans. AirUp rose to stardom last year with its unique bottles that can be filled with still or sparkling water, but trick the brain into thinking its contents are flavoured, thanks to aroma pods. And yesterday, the German company launched its latest Gen2 Tritan Renew Bottle in two new colours, Lavender Purple and Cobalt Blueberry, alongside the signature Charcoal Grey hue. They feature a new ActiveOn Mouthpiece, saving the need to manually activate the pod - unlike the original design - and prices range from 36.99 for a 600ml bottle to 46.99 for the 1 litre size. The news immediately sent fans into a frenzy, with one commenting: 'Got my new bottle today and I was amazed by the results'. AirUp has launched three new leak-proof bottles featuring instant flavour activation and straws - to the delight of fans The new AirUp launch immediately sent fans on Instagram into a frenzy While AirUp was introduced to the UK in 2021, its popularity reached new heights amongst gym-goers and students alike last year, with one teacher estimating he had '300 worth' of the bottles brought to class daily. Announcing the new products on Instagram yesterday, AirUp wrote: 'The bottle that solves hydration and flavour means you dont have to make tough decisions on choices that best balance health and taste anymore - you can have both!' The bottles are sold as bundles with three pods, which flavour 15 litres of water and last approximately 10 days (based on an average consumption of 1.5 litres per day). While the aromas are produced in Germany, the bottles are made in Austria using 100 per cent renewable energy - and the company plants a tree for every order. AirUp has launched Gen2 Tritan Renew Bottles (pictured in the shade Lavender Purple) The Gen2 Tritan Renew Bottles are available in the signature Charcoal Grey (pictured), along with two new colours: Lavender Purple and Cobalt Blueberry The Gen2 Tritan Renew Bottle features a silicone mouthpiece and straw The pods come in a range of flavours, including virgin mojito The product can be filled with still or sparkling water, but tricks the brain into thinking its contents are flavoured, thanks to aroma pods. How does retronasal smell work? AirUp's scented pods trick your brain into thinking the water is flavoured, thanks to a concept known as retronasal smell. AirUp explained: 'This is the technical term for a simple process - tasting with your nose. 'When you smell something, it passes through the throat to the olfactory centre in the nose and manifests in the brain as taste. Simple. Genius. Mind-blowing. '80 per cent of the tastes you experience are actually things you are smelling. The tongue may talk the talk, but it's the nose that walks the walk when it comes to taste.' Advertisement The pods release scents up the nose as you sip, passing through the throat to the brain where they manifest as taste. The pods come in a range of flavours, including passionfruit, elderflower, coffee, virgin mojito and cola. AirUp was founded by Lena Jungst and Tim Jager, and arrived in the UK in 2021. German entrepreneur Jungst says the bottles invite 'people to experiment a bit with flavour. It's a new way of perceiving flavour - nothing like this has existed before'. The product itself has been widely praised by parents who struggle to get their children to drink water regularly - NHS guidelines suggest children should drink six to eight cups of water a day - because the flavour encourages them to hydrate more. A number of thrilled customers flocked to share their thoughts, with one penning 'I have bought one and I love mine', while another said 'I'm getting the new blueberry one'. Elsewhere, a mother mentioned that the bottles are still popular with school children, saying: 'It's a must among W's classmates'. Fans who use the bottles at the gym also appeared delighted by the new launch, with one writing: 'Gym grind with AirUp all day'. Meanwhile, the AirUp website has received hundreds of raving reviews from customers, with the bottles boasting an overall rating of 4.54. Queen Camilla has occupied a spot in the limelight for almost three decades, and even more so since her husband King Charles' succession to the throne in 2023. Having married King Charles in 2005, the Queen Consort is more than familiar with a life of royalty within the walls of Buckingham Palace - but her own family's royal blood and link to the historic landmark may come as a surprise to some. Ever since the reign of Queen Victoria began in 1837, Buckingham Palace has served as the official home of the sovereign, and, today, it is the administrative headquarters for The King and several members of his family. The building, which is currently undergoing essential maintenance work, has 775 rooms, including 19 State rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. Although the palace has remained largely unchanged for several years, there was one adaptation after Queen Victoria's wedding in 1840 that provides a special link between the history of the famous building and Queen Camilla. Having married King Charles (R) in 2003, the Queen Consort (L) is more than familiar with Buckingham Palace - but her own link to the historic landmark may come as a surprise to some Although distant, the first link to Buckingham Palace comes from Camilla's royal blood - stretching as far back as three generations. The Queen Consort's maternal great-great-grandfather, Lieutenant Colonel William Coutts Keppel, was born in 1832. The distinguished military figure was the 7th Earl of Albermarle, and through Charles Lennox, he was sixth in the direct line of ascent from Charles II, who reigned over Scotland, England and Ireland in the late 1600s. Camilla's mother, Rosalind Maud Cubitt, was also the great-great granddaughter of Thomas Cubitt, who came from modest beginnings in Norfolk and was the son of a carpenter. However, Cubitt went on to become an accomplished master builder, who made his fortune while travelling to India and Australia as a carpenter in the late 1700s. Having set up his own building firm on the Gray's Inn Road, London, Cubitt became responsible for iconic buildings such as the London Institute and Belgravia Square - as well as personally building nearly a kilometre of the Thames Embankment. Camilla's royal connection to Buckingham Palace comes in following Thomas Cubitt's arguably most impressive accomplishment - his work on the landmark itself. Cubitt built the east front of the palace in 1847, including the famous balcony where Camilla stood to commemorate her crowning as Queen Consort in 2023, and now stands to greet crowds on important occasions. Camilla's great-great-great grandfather, Thomas Cubitt, was an accomplished builder who was responsible for building part of Buckingham Palace in 1847 The Queen Consort 's maternal great-great-grandfather, Lieutenant Colonel William Coutts Keppel was the 7th Earl of Albermarle and sixth in line to the throne in the 1600s A map of Gray's Inn Road in 1677, around 130 years before Thomas Cubitt set up shop The Thomas Cubitt Statue in Pimlico, which was built following Cubitt's work on iconic buildings such as the London Institute and Belgravia Square, and others in Pimlico and Bloomsbury After Cubitt's death in 1855, Queen Victoria said: 'In his sphere of life, with the immense business he had in hand, he is a real national loss. A better, kind-hearted or more simple, unassuming man never breathed.' In 2022, FEMAIL revealed the various career pursuits of royal relatives - and the boost you can get from ties to the monarchy. Princess Eugenie's husband, Jack Brooksbank, scored a job in Portugal, where he is doing marketing, sales and promotion for property developer Michael Meldman's Discovery Land Company. Meanwhile, Princess Beatrice's husband Edo Mapelli Mozzi expanded his multi-million pound property company Banda Property into Australia, with a series of projects in Sydney. Even the mother of the Princess of Wales, Carole Middleton, has seen her business, Party Pieces, flourish thanks to her royal seal of approval, sending out 4,000 orders weekly and expanding her business to the U.S. in October 2022. Princess Madeleine of Sweden has shared an adorable photo of her daughter Princess Leonore in celebration of her 10th birthday. Madeleine, who is the younger sister of Crown Princess Victoria, wrote on Instagram: Happy Birthday to our funny and adventurous girl! Never stop climbing all the trees that you love and dreaming about what fun things lay ahead! We love you!!' In the sweet snap, a beaming Leonore is pictured wearing a floral embroidered dress while sitting in a tree. Princess Madeleine, 41, shares three children with her financier husband, Christopher O'Neill, 49: Leonore, ten, Nicolas, eight, and Princess Adrienne, five. The royal family-of-five currently live in Miami, Florida, but plan to return to Sweden later this year. Princess Madeleine of Sweden has shared an adorable photo of her daughter Princess Leonore in celebration of her 10th birthday Princess Madeleine and British-American financier Christopher tied the knot on June 8, 2013 at the Royal Chapel, Stockholm Palace. Christopher made the decision not to become a Swedish citizen or accept any titles so that he could continue as a businessman without royal duties. After living in London and New York, they relocated to Florida in 2018. Leonore, who is currently eighth in the line of succession to the Swedish throne, was born at the Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York on February 20, 2014. Whereas her siblings, Nicolas and Adrienne, were both born in Stockhom, Sweden. In 2019, King Carl XVI Gustaf announced that the three children would no longer hold His or Her Royal Highness titles nor be official royal house members. (L-R) Princess Leonore, Princess Adrienne, Christopher O'Neill, Prince Nicolas and Princess Madeleine in 2020 Princess Madeleine poses with her daughters Princess Leonore (left) and Princess Adrienne on December 4, 2023 Leonore, Nicolas and Adrienne are not expected to carry out full-time public duties in future. The same rule was applied to their cousins, Prince Alexander and Prince Gabriel. However, the royal status of Crown Princess Victoria's children remained untouched. The monarch, 77, has slowly reduced the size of the royal family during his 51-year reign. King Carl XVI Gustaf acceded to the throne on September 15, 1973, when he was just 27-years-old. Crown Princess Victoria, 46, is the heir apparent to the Swedish throne and would be the country's fourth queen regnant. She is followed by her daughter, Princess Estelle, 11, and son, Prince Oscar, seven. Princess Victoria is currently touring San Francisco with her husband Prince Daniel. The Swedish royal family pictured after Princess Leonore's christening ceremony in the Drottningholm Palace church, outside Stockholm, Sweden, on June 8, 2014 (L-R) Princess Leonore, Prince Nicolas, Princess Adrienne and Princess Madeleine of Sweden in 2019 The royal couple - who have been married for almost 14 years - kicked off the tour by visiting the Scandinavian School and Cultural Centre before later travelling to the Golden Gate Bridge. For their first engagement, the future European Queen looked effortlessly glamorous in a white silk shirt and floral skirt by Saloni. The school was founded in 2002 by a group of mothers who wanted their children to learn the languages of Scandinavia. It now teaches children aged 5-15 and also offers language lessons for adult students. Following this, Victoria and Daniel then made the 25-minute journey to the Marine Mammal Centre. This local organisation helps rehabilitate animals and protect local areas of natural beauty through education and research. Victoria changed into a more casual outfit for this engagement, which involved a tour of the premises and meeting some of the rescues. The pair then happily posed for photos by San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge - which is just a 10-minute drive from the centre. Diane von Furstenberg and her billionaire husband, Barry Diller, have been seen enjoying a night of culture in New York City just days after her former sister-in-law passed away. The 77-year-old Belgian-born fashion designer, who invented and popularized the wrap dress, was snapped walking out of the Joyce Theater on Tuesday night with Barry, who she wed in 2001. Her public appearance comes just days after the death of her former sister-in-law, model and socialite Ira von Furstenberg, who was considered one of the earliest 'It girls.' Ira died aged 83 in Rome on Sunday, according to Italian media outlets. Diane von Furstenberg and her billionaire husband, Barry Diller, have been seen enjoying a night of culture in New York City The 77-year-old Belgian-born fashion designer, who invented the wrap dress, was snapped walking out of the Joyce Theater on Tuesday night with Barry, who she wed in 2001 Her brother, Prince Eduard Egon von und zu Furstenberg (known as Egon), was the first husband of Diane, with the pair married from 1969 to 1983. Despite their split, they remained close until his death in 2004 aged 57. On Tuesday, Diane and Barry, 82, stepped out for a date night to see a dance performance choreographed by Twyla Tharp at the Joyce Theater. For the occasion, the couple opted for more low-key outfits to protect themselves from the cold temperatures of Manhattan. Diane went makeup free and her hair was loose as she rocked a green top with a black cardigan thrown over the top. Around her neck, she wrapped up warm with a black-and-white striped scarf. The look was completed with a pair of black pants and shoes to match. In her hands, she was seen clutching a program from the performance. Meanwhile her partner, Barry, who is a senior executive and chairman of IAC (which he also founded) and chairman of Expedia Group, struck a casual figure in a polka-dot button-up shirt, blue jeans and a gray hoodie paired with sneakers. Her public appearance comes just days after the reported death of her former sister-in-law, model and socialite Ira von Furstenberg, who was considered one of the earliest 'It girls' On Tuesday, Diane and Barry stepped out for a date night to see a dance performance choreographed by Twyla Tharp at the Joyce Theater Ira died aged 83 in Rome on Sunday, according to Italian media outlets. She's pictured with husband Prince Alfonso in 1957 Her brother, Prince Eduard Egon von und zu Furstenberg (known as Egon), was the first husband of Diane, with the pair married from 1969 to 1983. The siblings are pictured in the 80s Despite their split, Diane and Egon remained close until his death in 2004 aged 57. Pictured in the 70s Diane posted two photos on Instagram from the night on Wednesday morning, with the caption: 'The joy and talent of NYC!' One photo was of a promotional poster for Twyla Tharp Dance and the other was an image of the choreographer herself. The theater's website describes Twyla as a 'boundary-breaking creative vision, revolutionary choreographer.' The run features 'two world premieres' with music from composer Simeon ten Holt whose 'signature minimalist style intermingles with Vivaldi's Baroque scores in The Ballet Master, a new work characterized by technical precision and joyful ease.' 'In Brel, an homage to the Belgian vocalist Jacques Brel, Tharp's command of wit and musicality shine in this new solo work. Her company, Twyla Tharp Dance, also offers a revival of Ocean's Motion (1975), featuring music by rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry,' the website continues. 'The star-studded cast includes Gibney Company's Miriam Gittens and Jake Tribus, L.A. Dance Project's Daisy Jacobson, American Ballet Theatre's Cassandra Trenary, New York City Ballet's Daniel Ulbricht, and longtime collaborators Skye Mattox, John Selya, and Reed Tankersley, with guest performances by Herman Cornejo.' Prince Egon and Diane shared two children together, Alexander and Tatiana, and wed after meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland at a birthday party when they were both 18 years old despite her admitting there was no attraction at first. The pair split after they were profiled in New York Magazine in 1973 that was headlined: 'The Couple That Has Everything. Is Everything Enough?' In it the couple were portrayed as 'both promiscuous and passion-devoid,' according to InStyle. 'The result was shocking and it destroyed our marriage,' Diane would later pen in her memoir, The Woman I Wanted To Be, published in 2014. 'Reading the magazine and seeing our lives exposed under a magnifying glass, I realized that that couple was not who I was. I didn't want to be a European Park Avenue princess with a pretend decadent life.' Infidelities on both parts and her career also contributed to the couple's split. Their divorce was finalized in 1983. She was by her ex-husband's side when he died in 2004. Prince Egon's sister Ira was born in Rome on April 17, 1940, and was raised in Venice at the Villa Furstenberg. Egon and Diane shared two children together, Alexander and Tatiana. Pictured in the 70s Ira is pictured here in 1955 playing with her two brothers, Egon and Sebastian During her incredibly colorful life, the socialite worked as a model and is thought to be one of the first ever 'It girls,' starred in several films and even became a published author. At 15 years old, she attracted the eyes of the world when she married Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, who was 30 at the time. Life magazine described their now-controversial union as the 'Wedding of the Year' while Paris Match put her on its cover as the teenager was catapulted into the limelight. After capturing people's attention, she was photographed by Cecil Beaton on her 15th birthday, while Salvador Dali made no secret of the fact he was desperate to paint her. In 2019, she revealed his repeated requests to paint her nude never tempted her. 'I was a little girl who just got married and was still in the honeymoon stage,' she said. After having two sons, Ira divorced her husband after five years of marriage. She went on to marry Brazilian businessman Francisco Pignatari from 1961 until 1964. Following the breakdown of her second marriage, she did not remarry but continued to circulate in high society groups and became incredibly well-connected. Among her close friends were Princess Margaret and Prince Rainier of Monaco - with rumors flying in the 1980s that she was in a relationship with the Monegasque premier. It was widely reported that, in response to the rumors, Princess Margaret reportedly made the cruel quip: 'Such a big girl for such a small country.' As she rose to stardom in her modelling and acting career she also became friends with some influential figures in the fashion industry, including Karl Lagerfeld. Although she had a successful fashion career, the socialite previously hinted that her true passion was acting. Speaking to the Financial Times just last year, she said 'in another life' she would have continued to pursue acting. She revealed that, when her first acting gig Matchless was released, her father 'reacted very badly' because she was 'undressed on screen'. She said: 'I had to explain to him that my acting did not have the same power to make people flock to the cinema as my body.' The Fosters star Maia Mitchell has revealed why she traded the glitz and glam of Hollywood for a slow farm lifestyle in Australia - and why Los Angeles was not the place for her. The 30-year-old Aussie actress took her talents to California at the age of 18. It was in the Golden State that Maia became a household name after nabbing star roles in hit shows like The Fosters and Good Trouble. However, more than a decade later, Maia decided to go back to her roots in a bid to be closer to her family after the COVID-19 pandemic made her fearful she wouldn't be able to get to her loved ones if they got sick. Maia got candid about her reasons for relocating to her native country while speaking to Zach Sang on the Zach Sang Show as she lifted the lid on the moment she knew she needed to leave California and her new life for back home. Maia has revealed why she traded the glitz and glam of Hollywood for a slow farm lifestyle in Australia - and why Los Angeles was not the place for her The 30-year-old actress took her talents to California at the age of 18. It was in the Golden State that Maia became a household name after nabbing a star role in The Fosters (seen) Maia (seen at her Australia farm) decided to go back to her roots in a bid to be closer to her family after COVID-19 made her fearful she wouldn't be able to get to her loved ones When asked why she moved back to Byron Bay, Australia, Maia explained: 'I just wanted to be home. I think COVID was just really hard for everyone in different ways, it was hard being so far from everyone. 'If anything happened, I couldn't get there.' She noted that the thought of moving back home had been on her mind 'for a while' even before the pandemic hit and she floated the idea with producers of The Fosters. The actress also said that while she appreciated her time in California, she knew it wasn't for her. 'LA isn't for me. It's not my favorite city. I love coming to visit but I'm a small town girl. I'm a country girl. I just wanted to be home and be close to family,' she added. The actress joked that although she had to dodge a few 'ground snakes,' it was 'fine.' She added that she had never even planned to move to America, but her role on The Fosters was 'such a dream job' that she just stayed. Maia then lifted the lid on her relaxing lifestyle in Australia. She noted that the thought of moving back home had been on her mind 'for a while' even before the pandemic hit and she floated the idea with producers of The Fosters Maia's The Fosters costar Cierra Ramirez was also present and said that although she had yet to visit her pal in Australia, she was hoping to this year The 30-year-old added that although she has been running around Europe filming her latest project the last few months, when she is at her farm, she does 'nothing' (seen in Australia) 'I live on farm, I'm on a 20-acre farm, and I just hang out there by myself. It couldn't be more opposite to my life [in LA], which is fantastic,' she said. The 30-year-old added that although she has been running around Europe filming her latest project the last few months, when she is at her farm, she does 'nothing.' In 2022, Maia spoke to People about her decision to move back to her native country. She told the outlet: 'The pandemic was really hard for me. I know I'm so privileged and I was so lucky to be able to work, but it also meant that I was separated from my family for 18 months. 'And there was something about not being able to see them if something happened, just the knowledge that you couldn't get on a plane and see each other, was really hard. I just had to be with them. 'Australia's always felt like home to me and I always had wanted to move back eventually. Obviously, it was such a heartbreaking decision to make because I found community on that show. They've been my family in America. It's kept me going through my homesickness. It was a really, really tough decision. 'I sat with it for a really long time trying to talk myself out of it. But I had to be closer to my family.' Maia's The Fosters costar Cierra Ramirez was also present and said that although she had yet to visit her pal in Australia, she was hoping to this year. In 2022, Maia (seen in Australia) spoke to People about her decision to move back to her native country Maia (seen in 2022) rose to stardom in 2013 when she starred in Disney Channel's Teen Beach Movie Maia is now starring in The Artful Dodger alongside actor Thomas Brodie-Sangster Maia rose to stardom in 2013 when she starred in Disney Channel's Teen Beach Movie. From there she took her talents to the States and garnered major roles outside of the Disney Channel. She also showed off her skills in fan-favorite movies like The Last Summer, which also stars KJ Apa, and Hot Summer Nights, which features Timothee Chalamet. In March 2022, Maia told her fans that she would be moving on from The Fosters to return home to be closer to her 'nearest and dearest.' Maia is now starring in The Artful Dodger alongside actor Thomas Brodie-Sangster. Perhaps a hot drink might help relax me, I think, after checking into my hotel room. But theres no kettle, only its base lying haphazardly on the bedside table. Oh, thats a shame, the disinterested receptionist retorts sarcastically down the phone, before refusing my request to have one sent up. Use the sink. How will water from a tap make a cup of tea, I ask? Use your imagination, she barks, before hanging up. Amid a staffing crisis in the hospitality industry, you might think I am being berated by a rogue employee who has slipped through the interview net. In fact, she is employed specifically to offend, because I am in a hotel that proudly describes itself as the worst in the world, where customer service is non-existent, condiments are hurled during dinner, and hotel basics towels, toilet rolls, etc are conspicuous only in their absence. Antonia Hoyle, centre, visits Karens Hotel in Barnet, north London, which opened last month Karens Hotel in Barnet, north London, opened last month as an offshoot of Karens Diner, a restaurant chain famous for insulting its customers. First launched in Australia in 2021, it arrived in Britain the following year. The name Karen has become a byword on the internet for the sort of midlife woman who complains about everything and routinely asks to speak to the manager. So charging people to be pilloried while eating in a diner bearing that name sounds like a suspect business plan. But the brand has so far amassed 1.6million followers and its videos have had 3billion views on TikTok, where children, parents and grandparents alike flock to upload pictures of themselves being told to f*** off by waiting staff known as Karens. There are seven UK branches, and celebrity fans include broadcaster Davina McCall, who described being called a stupid b*tch at the Manchester branch last year as hilarious. So perhaps it was only a matter of time before Karens broadened its business to overnight stays. But who on earth will this masochistic mayhem appeal to? Anyone who not only wants to be roasted during the day but feels a need to be roasted all night too, says Paul Levin of Karens Diner. By roasted he means comically abused, a form of escapism which he sees as the underlying appeal of Karens. The only prerequisites for guests? Thick skin and a sense of humour. I have neither, alas. Sensitive, socially awkward and conflict-averse, I dont banter and rarely understand jokes. Being heckled is my idea of a nightmare. But could facing my fears head on be the solution? Might my 189 overnight Karen Experience, which includes dinner, finally toughen me up and teach me to laugh at myself more? My heart hammers furiously as I arrive at reception. After several minutes of waiting, a sullen girl with corkscrew curls, wearing baggy trousers, a scowl, a red apron with Farah scrawled on the front, and dirty trainers, eventually emerges. I venture into the bathroom and scream theres a huge spider perched on the soap dish in the shower and fluffy legs line the shower tray My room looks like it has been upended by a five-year-old on a sugar high One of three Karens who will be looking after me during my stay, she ushers me to my room with a grunt. Move, Grandma! she barks as I struggle up the stairs with my luggage, before asking: You want help? I nod hopefully. I dont f**ing care, she says, barging past to open my door. Inside, my room looks like it has been upended by a five-year-old on a sugar high. The lamps are knocked over and milk and coffee sachets have been thrown across an unmade bed. Loo roll is flung over the mirror and a hideous brown blanket imprinted with a Karen emoji (graduated blonde bob not dissimilar to my own, I realise with horror) has been thrown on the floor. I venture into the bathroom and scream theres a huge spider perched on the soap dish in the shower, its long black legs not immediately obvious as fake. Fluffy hair (from the fake tarantula, I hope) lines the shower tray, along with empty bottles of shampoo. The toilet seat is up, a cardboard toilet roll tube has been thrown into the bowl and soap smeared over the taps. Im picking the tube out when the phone rings. Its Farah, with, of all things, a knock-knock joke. Um, whos there? I ask. A zoo with only dogs in it. Whats it called? My mind goes blank as she hollers a Shih Tzu, and before my stressed brain understands the punchline she hollers, F***ING LAUGH. Nervously, I blurt out that I dont have a sense of humour. I can tell. You have a face like a slapped arse, she says. As I get ready for dinner there is a barrage of further calls, that include a joke about me being in a care home and a request for me to have a shower because theres a stink of fish and weve got customers. Is this funny? Im not sure. Its becoming clear I will be targeted for my gender, age (45, dementia is already kicking in) and class (posh t***') when theres a banging on the door so loud I jump out of my skin. This time Farah has brought a sidekick, Ashley, snarky in black crop top, leggings and Crocs. The pair leer at me from my doorway apparently here solely to say I need my roots doing. Guests certainly receive no shortage of attention here, but in an age of narcissism and non-existent customer service, maybe it is better to be trolled than ignored, even if George, my third Karen, does call me a perv when I accidentally touch his elbow and hurls my requested toilet roll across the room. There is, of course, a fine line between banter and abuse, as the franchise has found to its cost. Last year, Karens Diner apologised to an Australian family after a waiter called a father eating at the restaurant a paedophile and asked if his 14-year-old daughter, who they called a tart, had an account on the porn site OnlyFans. Walking into the neon pink and purple, 1950s-style diner, I am told my frilly red dress looks like a cabbage Swearing might be rife but is not encouraged in excess, insists Levin, who admits, however, that nervous young Karens swear too much to get a laugh. If theyre doing it a lot we pull them up. Despite the foul language, he says families comprise 40 per cent of customers and that if youve got young kids and as parents think its responsible, well thats up to you. Body shaming is forbidden, but fashion sense and personal grooming choices are fair game. Walking into the neon pink and purple, 1950s-style diner, replete with alternative slogans (Vegan? Get a Life Do Not Ask About Our Day. We Dont Give A S**t About Yours) I am told my frilly red dress looks like a cabbage, while the 13.95 Karens Pathetic Single a burger served with fries is dropped unceremoniously in front of me, along with sachets of ketchup that land on my head. Customers are made to eat in customised paper hats mine reads Birth Certificate says Expired and after Ive finished my (admittedly tasty) burger Im told to crayon in a picture of a Karen an activity I find reassuringly calming until Ashley takes it off me and rips it up. At your old arse age you cant colour in properly, she screams. Youve been on this earth for about 100 years. I later find out Ashley is 17, and Farah 19. Little wonder they think Im ancient. I become increasingly desensitised to the insults, however, and when cleaners Chantelle and Louise, both 43, and Mary arrive at the restaurant to celebrate Marys 60th birthday, my mood lifts at fellow female company, especially as Mary is now the designated oldest b**ch. When she jokes that the perfectly lovely long blonde haircut she is being insulted for is a midlife crisis, Ashley says, Its not midlife. Its end of life. Louise good-naturedly replies that Mary is, in fact, a cool gangsta granny. She sells drugs outside the council estate, does she? Farah wisecracks unprepared, perhaps, for Marys comeback: We all are actually recovering addicts. Were from Cocaine Anonymous. Having established theyre not joking it is, after all, that type of place I learn Mary, now nearly three years clean, once had just six months to live. End of life indeed. The insults might cut close to the bone, but that only makes the womens laughter more raucous. As we are corralled into performing a makeshift catwalk fashion show I am made to strut to St Winifreds School Choirs Grandma We Love You I realise however ageist, sexist, immature and wildly inappropriate the digs are, they have broken down stuffy social boundaries and created a sense of intimacy. I am, against all expectation, having fun. Or was I return to my room to discover my pillows have gone missing, an iron in their place to keep me warm and more fake spiders everywhere. At 9pm theres an almighty banging at the door that procures my biggest scream yet. Its Farah and Ashley with a personalised drawing of me as Anton replete with grey hair and a Karen cut. Perhaps I have Stockholm Syndrome, but I feel strangely touched. Exhausted from hours of insults, I get rid of the remaining milk cartons and coffee sachets from under the duvet and eventually fall into a fitful sleep, wondering whether I might be thicker skinned than I thought after all. As I check out the following morning, theres no sign of my trio of tormentors, my Karen Experience apparently cut off at dawn. I hand back my key, and when the receptionist in their place tells me to have a lovely day, I feel slightly disappointed. He has admitted that he prefers dating abroad and refuses to go back In addition to traveling the world, Evan made many new romantic connections An American man who has been living abroad has revealed why he has sworn off dating in the United States after finding that romance was much more alive in places like Spain and France. Evan Lambert moved from New York in 2021 to live a life of adventure abroad, and has now realized why his love life was going downhill in the States. In addition to sightseeing, Evan made many personal and romantic connections while abroad and even discovered why dating in the U.S. was 'dull', laying bare the details of his love life transformation in a story for Business Insider. The traveler has lifted the lid on how his views about romance transformed when he moved and why it helped him reevaluate the meaning of connections in America. Evan Lambert moved from New York in 2021 to live a life of adventure abroad, and has now realized why his love life was going downhill in the States He has revealed why he has sworn off dating in the United States - after finding that romance was much more alive in places like Spain and France 'Before the pandemic, I was living in the United States, drifting through an endless stream of first dates,' he explained. 'Either I'd ghost them, or they'd ghost me, and even if neither of us ended up ghosting, I still never felt excited enough to go on a second date.' However, after moving abroad and starting a new chapter of his love life, Evan realized that he had been searching in the wrong places. His first stop was Switzerland, it was there that he learned that 'even one-night stands can be romantic.' 'The men were just as effusive when it came to dating. It was not rare for a Scottish man to call me "bonnie" five times before admitting he wanted to rip open my shirt even if he only had me for a night,' he explained. 'It felt like I was being swept off my feet; often, my hookups in America went from a handshake to full sex in 60 seconds without even an exchange of names.' Evan noted that prior to moving, he associated one-night stands with a lack of intimacy, but he soon realized that getting tangled up in the sheets with someone for even an evening could be romantic. In addition to sightseeing, Evan made many personal and romantic connections while abroad and even discovered why dating in the U.S. was 'dull' It was in Spain that he learned to let go of any expectations and live spontaneously, which led him to meet his now-partner, who is from Peru After learning that one-night stands were romantic in Switzerland, he set his sights on France. He noticed that men in France were much more present than any of the guys he had ever been on dates with in the U.S.. 'I noticed that other Europeans, not just Frenchmen, were more attentive during sex and dating than Americans, no matter the length of our courtship,' Evan told Business Insider. Evan explained that his time in Europe made him realize how important it was to focus on our relationships. Next up, the jet-setter headed to Spain, where he discovered that dates didn't have to be so official and learned how to let go. Evan noted that while living in America, he planned dates down to the very minute - admitting that he once even scheduled a Google Calendar appointment for a walk in Central Park with a man. It was in Spain that he learned to let go of any expectations and live spontaneously, which led him to meet his now-partner, who is from Peru. Lance Corporal James Ashworth was killed during an operation in Afghanistan The Queen paid tribute to a Grenadier Guardsman posthumously awarded a Victoria Cross when she met military families supported by the regiment's charity. Camilla, 76, praised the bravery of Lance Corporal James Ashworth as she chatted to his parents, Duane and Caroline Ashworth, telling them 'I'm just full of admiration'. She is Colonel of the Grenadier Guards and welcomed former soldiers and their families to Clarence House for a reception, her first engagement as patron of the Colonel's Fund. Speaking about L/Cpl Ashworth's actions, recognised with the British armed forces' highest military decoration, she told his parents: 'You must be so proud, for somebody to be awarded the Victoria Cross is something else. It's unbelievable, I read his citation and couldn't believe it.' L/Cpl Ashworth, 23, from Corby in Northamptonshire, was killed during an operation to eliminate a group of insurgent sharpshooters in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province, Afghanistan, in June 2012. The Queen met with Lance Corporal James Ashworth's parents, Duane and Caroline Ashworth (pictured), and told them: 'I'm just full of admiration' regarding their son's bravery During the firefight the soldier and his team pressed the insurgents and in the final moments L/Cpl Ashworth moved from behind a wall to get better aim to throw a grenade, exposing himself to fire and was fatally shot. His citation read: 'Despite the ferocity of the insurgent's resistance, Ashworth refused to be beaten. 'His total disregard for his own safety in ensuring that the last grenade was posted accurately was the gallant last action of a soldier who had willingly placed himself in the line of fire on numerous occasions earlier in the attack. This supremely courageous and inspiring action deserves the highest recognition.' The Colonel's Fund was established in 2007 and provides help with mobility aid, home improvements, employment training and counselling. Matt Elmer, a retired Grenadier Guards Colour Sergeant who serves as Regimental Casualty Officer, delivers services to those in need. He said about the veterans whom he helps: 'The key thing is they know I'm there. We want to get people back on their feet, so to speak. 'They might be fine but then they might have a dip but all they have to do is pick up the phone and I am there.' Meanwhile, King Charles III appeared in good spirits as he was seen publicly undertaking royal duties for the first time since it was announced that he has been diagnosed with cancer. Camilla today recognised the bravery of Lance Corporal James Ashworth (pictured), who was killed during an operation to eliminate a group of insurgent sharpshooters in Afghanistan In her first engagement as patron of the Colonel's Fund, Camilla also chatted with Lance Corporal Scott Blaney (left) Lance Sgt Markus Strydom MC (left) appeared animated as he chatted with the Queen at today's event The 76-year-old looked pleased to talk with Sgt (retired) Carl Shadrake and his family at Clarence House today His Majesty, 75, beamed as he met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at Buckingham Palace today, having previously carried out audiences with him remotely from Sandringham. The monarch told Mr Sunak that he has received 'so many wonderful messages and cards' since his shock diagnosis that he has been 'reduced me to tears most of the time'. The prime minister reportedly told the King that it was 'very nice to see you', to which Charles responded: 'A bit of a gap... I'm afraid.' Mr Sunak also said it was 'wonderful to see you looking so well,' to which the King jokingly replied: 'Well, it's all done by mirrors, really.' Before the pair's private discussion, the King also met with members of the Privy Council in person on Tuesday evening. The Colonel's Fund event allowed Camilla to meet with fund members and beneficiaries, including Sgt (retired) Carl Shadrake (pictured) Dressed in a red dress, Her Majesty appeared in high spirts as she chatted with Mandy Bainbridge (pictured left) Meanwhile, King Charles met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at Buckingham Palace today, with the pair seen smiling during their first face-to-face meeting since the monarch's cancer diagnosis Charles' profound sense of duty and strong work-ethic has seen him continue working privately through treatment, but this is the first time the King has been pictured carrying out royal duties. The monarch is pausing public engagements as he undergoes treatment for an unspecified form of cancer. It was discovered by doctors while Charles was treated for an enlarged prostate in late January. His diagnosis was announced by Buckingham Palace just days later as it was confirmed doctors had noticed a 'separate issue of concern'. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reassured the nation when he previously said that King Charles' disease had been 'caught early'. The monarch is now spending much of his time at his Norfolk retreat in Sandringham, although sources say he is well enough to continue a small number of face-to-face meetings. He will also be carrying out some duties remotely. Among the work he will continue to carry out is his daily perusal of his red boxes of paperwork, containing all his documents of state. In a letter released shortly a week after the news was announced, King Charles thanked the British public for their 'many messages of support and good wishes'. He continued: 'As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement. 'It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organisations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world. 'My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.' Members of the Royal family have rallied around the King, with Prince William returning to duties after spending time caring for his wife Princess Kate. In a separate health scare, the Princess of Wales had been admitted to The London Clinic for planned abdominal surgery, and she will not be able to perform any royal engagements until at least Easter. Taylor Swift was snapped out and about in Sydney on Tuesday night wearing a black corset top from an affordable designer and an upside-down 'T' necklace. The megastar left the Surry Hills trattoria Pellegrino 2000 wearing the Chicca black top from cult favourite brand House of CB. She paired the stylish top with a brown belted pleated skirt and a T-bar necklace from jewellery designer Tilly Sveaas. Taylor Swift style-watchers better be quick if they want to get their hands on the buys as anything the superstar wears sells out in a matter of hours. Despite her $1billion net worth, Taylor had no qualms sporting the Chicca black top, which is an affordable $169. Taylor Swift was snapped wearing a black corset top from House of CB for less than $200 while out for dinner in Sydney on Monday night The superstar wore House of CB's Chicca black top (left) which is priced at $160 as well as a T-bar necklace from British jewellery designer Tilly Sveaas (right) The top has threaded ties along the bust that meet in the middle and front-clasping hook and eye fasteners so you can adjust it to be as loose or fitted as you please. It's available in XS to L+ in either A-C cup or D-E cup sizes. Besides the black, the top comes in white with two floral colour ways; ditsy red roses or sweet blue blooms. Australian customers can order Chicca online through House of Cb with free shipping or find it at Myer or David Jones in-store or online for $176. Around her neck, Taylor added a touch of gold with British brand Tilly Sveaas' Gold T-Bar Curb Link Necklace. The accessory is priced at $590 with a 40cm chain and $695 with a 50cm chain; some fans say the 'T' style is likely a subtle tribute to her Superbowl-winning boyfriend Travis Kelce. Tilly Sveaas' T-bar collection features a range of similar necklaces with varying chain lengths and widths. Taylor Swift super fans are in hysterics over the possibility of severe weather cancelling her upcoming shows in Sydney. Rumours have been swirling ahead of the second leg of Taylor's Australian tour after the Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm warning. Heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones are expected for much of NSW on Friday and Saturday, placing a question mark above Taylor's first and second Sydney shows. However, Taylor has only cancelled two shows in the history of her 16-year career - once in 2011 when she had bronchitis, and another time in 2014 due to the military coup in Thailand. Taylor is no stranger to rain shows, and several performances on her Eras Tour went ahead during storms; a small delay is the most likely outcome. Fans are worried Taylor Swift's Sydney shows may be cancelled due to the city's wild weather this week (Pictured: Swift performing in the rain in Sydney, November 2018) TAYLOR SWIFT: SYDNEY CONCERT WEATHER GUIDE CONCERT ONE: Friday February 23 Showers - 90 per cent chance of rain in afternoon and evening. Possible storm in afternoon and evening. Min 23 Max 34 CONCERT TWO: Saturday February 24 Shower or two. 70 per chance of rain, most likely in the morning. Chance of a thunderstorm. Min 19 Max 24 CONCERT THREE: Partly cloudy. Slight chance of showers. Min 18 Max 27 CONCERT FOUR: Mostly sunny. Slight chance of showers. Min 18 Max 27 Source: Bureau of Meteorology Advertisement The worst case scenario is Sydney's Friday and Saturday night concerts being rescheduled. Accor Stadium has stated that events will go ahead despite rain, hail, or shine unless there is a safety risk to the performer. However, a November 2023 show in Buenos Aires was rescheduled because of a severe thunderstorm. 'I love a rain show but I'm never going to endanger my fans or my fellow performers and crew,' Taylor wrote on social media the day of the show. 'Due to the weather being so truly chaotic it would be unsafe to try and put on this concert. Good news is I get to stay in Argentina longer!!' Sydney's Accor Stadium is partially covered depending on where your seat is. While umbrellas may be brought into the stadium, you cannot use them in your seats because you might inconvenience those around you. Doctors have discovered nearly 60 common drug combinations that could be putting millions of Americans at risk of deadly complications. Taking popular medicines like the blood thinner warfarin with some antibiotics, or pairing blood pressure pills with turmeric supplements, could render life-saving drugs ineffective or result in a dangerous unintentional overdose. It means at least 20 million Americans who rely on these heart disease meds could be unwittingly putting themselves at risk of a deadly heart attack, stroke or major bleed. The study, by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, discovered a striking 2 million potentially-harmful interactions 58 of which had not previously been documented. Scientists warned that the antibiotic doxycycline, available on prescription, could interact with the drugs warfarin - a blood thinner - and tacrolimus - an immune system suppressor (stock) Interactions detected included the antibiotic doxycycline, or Periostat, used to treat pneumonia and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and warfarin - prescribed to around 14million Americans with heart disease every year. Avoid mixing these drugs, researchers say: Avoid taking these drugs at the same time, the researchers say: Ibuprofen (painkiller) Warfarin (prevent blood clots, for heart disease patients) Verelan, drug name Verapamil (for high blood pressure) Quinine (malaria medication) Ergomar or Cafergot (Ergotamine D-tartrate, used for migraines) Ranitidine (to reduce stomach acid) Carbamazepine (epilepsy patients) Atorvastatin (lower cholesterol) Levetiracetam (antiseizure drug) Tacrolimus (immunosuppressant) Doxycycline (antibiotic) And these: Turmeric supplements Warfarin (prevent blood clots, for heart disease patients) Quinine (malaria medication) Doxycycline (antibiotic) Ergomar or Cafergot (Ergotamine D-tartrate, used for migraines) Ranitide (to reduce stomach acid) Curatil, Tegretol or Carbamazepine (epilepsy treatment) Nadolol (high blood pressure drug) ...And these: Atrovastatin (to lower cholesterol) Lasix or Furosemide (treat high blood pressure) Ergomar or Cafergot (Ergotamine D-tartrate, used for migraines) Ranitidine (to reduce stomach acid) Migranal, DHE or Di-hydroergotamine (for migraines) Doxycycline (antibiotic) Digoxin (a heart failure medication) The drugs have been split by which transporter protein in the gut that they use to enter the body. Advertisement Combinations of the heart failure medication digoxin, the anti-seizure drug levetiracetam and immunosuppresant tacrolimus were also found to be risky. Specifically, either a drug is super-metabolized, meaning patients receive a higher dose than they need, or it is under-metabolized, meaning they get too little. The researchers explained that the problem lies wih the way in which the drugs are processed by the body. All oral medication is metabolized via one of just a few specialist transporter proteins in the intestines. Sometimes, medications compete for the same transporter proteins so patients receive too little of a drug. In some cases, this means patients receive too high a dose. For the study, published in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering, researchers looked at 23 commonly used prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as 28 drugs less commonly used medicines - and more than a thousand experimental drugs. They exposed each of the drugs to cells from a pig's intestine, to simulate how the medicine would be metabolized in the human body. They blocked one of three transporter proteins in the cells, and monitored how much of the drug remained in the tissue. If very little of the drug was detected, this revealed the transporter protein that it used. The researchers fed the data into a machine-learning model to compute which drugs would likely be using the same transporter. It predicted nearly 2 million interactions, including 58 that were previously unknown. In a second part of the study, researchers examined blood test data from 50 patients who were prescribed doxycycline. Each had previously been taking warfarin, digoxin, levetiracetam or tacrolimus. The results showed that patients on warfarin got a 'super dose' of the drug when it was given alongside doxycycline. Too much warfarin can stop the blood being able to clot, raising the risk of gastrointestinal bleeds, nosebleeds and bleeds under the skin. Dr Traverso added: 'These are drugs that are commonly used, and we are the first to predict this interaction using this accelerated in silico and in vitro model. 'This kind of approach gives you the ability to understand the potential safety implications of giving these drugs together.' Dr Giovanni Traverso, a gastroenterologist who was involved in the study, said: 'One of the challenges in modeling absorption is that drugs are subject to different transporters. 'This study is all about how we can model those interactions, which could help us make drugs safer and more efficacious [work better]. '[It could also help us to] predict potential toxicities that may have been difficult to predict until now.' Experts suggest that patients should wait several hours typically four to six hours between taking the above medications to reduce the risk of interactions. An experimental pacemaker-like device that sends a steady stream of electric shocks to the brain offers a beacon of hope for millions of Americans with severe depression. The device controls the amount of electrical stimulation sent to an area of the brain that regulates emotions called the subcallosal cingulate. The electrical device helped Emily Hollenbeck of New York, who has lived in a black hole of depression for years, feel better immediately. Doctors believe that deep brain stimulation (DBS) works for depression because it communicates with the brain in a way it understands. Our brains use both electricity and chemicals to send messages between nerve cells, called neurons. Emily Hollenbeck, a deep brain stimulation patient being treated for depression, said she felt better soon after the surgery to implant the pacemaker device and electrodes in her brain Emily Hollenbeck is pictured wearing an EEG device that records brain activity as she reacts to short videos at Mount Sinai's 'Q-Lab' in New York Ms Hollenbeck suffered from depression symptoms as a child growing up in poverty and occasional homelessness. But her first major bout happened in college, after her fathers suicide in 2009. Another hit during a Teach for America stint, leaving her almost immobilized and worried shed lose her classroom job and sink into poverty again. She landed in the hospital. She said: I ended up having sort of an on-and-off pattern. After responding to medication for a while, she'd relapse. She managed to earn a doctorate in psychology, even after losing her mom in her last year of grad school. But the black hole always returned to pull her in. At times, she said, she thought about ending her life. She likened her depression to a black hole, where gravity felt so strong and her limbs so heavy she could barely move. Knowing the condition could kill her both her parents died by suicide she endeavored to try the innovative treatment not yet fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration. She said she'd exhausted all options, including electroconvulsive therapy when a doctor told her about DBS three years ago. At first I was blown away because the concept of it seems so intense. Like, its brain surgery. You have wires embedded in your brain, said Ms Hollenbeck, who is part of ongoing research at Mount Sinai West in New York City. She added: But I also felt like at that point I tried everything, and I was desperate for an answer. Nothing else was working. She became one of only a few hundred treated with DBS for depression. Ms Hollenbeck is one of more than three million Americans with treatment-resistant depression who could be eligible for DBS if it were approved for that purpose. The innovative treatment has so far only been approved for Parkinsons disease, but the FDA has agreed to speed up its review of Abbott Laboratories request to use its DBS devices for treatment-resistant depression. Sedated but awake, Ms Hollenbeck underwent the surgery. Emily Hollenbeck is pictured demonstarting how she makes circles in the air with her arms that are interpreted and projected as light on an interactive wall at the lab. She moves her arms faster now that she's doing better Pictured is a sample pacemaker-like device, used for deep brain stimulation therapy, and its electrodes which are implanted into a specific site in the brain involved in emotion regulation Dr Brian Kopell, director of Mount Sinai's Center for Neuromodulation, placed thin metal electrodes in a region of her brain called the subcallosal cingulate cortex. The electrodes are connected by an internal wire to a device placed under the skin in her chest, which controls a steady flow of low-voltage pulses. Hollenbeck calls it continous Prozac. In normal brains, Dr Kopell said, electrical activity reverberates unimpeded in all areas, in a sort of dance. In depression, the dancers get stuck within the brains emotional circuitry. DBS seems to 'unstick the circuit,' he said, allowing the brain to do what it normally would. A growing body of recent research is promising, with more underway - although two large studies that showed no advantage to using DBS for depression temporarily halted progress, and some scientists continue to raise concerns. Hollenbeck felt better as soon as the surgery was over. Dr Martijn Figee, her psychiatrist, said: The first day after surgery, she started feeling a lifting of that negative mood, of the heaviness. I remember her telling me that she was able to enjoy Vietnamese takeout for the first time in years and really taste the food. She started to decorate her home, which had been completely empty since she moved to New York. For Hollenbeck, the most profound change was finding pleasure in music again. She said: When I was depressed, I couldnt listen to music. It sounded and felt like I was listening to radio static. Then on a sunny day in the summer, I was walking down the street listening to a song. I just felt this buoyancy, this, Oh, I want to walk more, I want to go and do things! And I realized Im getting better. She only wishes the therapy had been there for her parents. Emily Hollenbeck stands for a portrait at the American Museum of Natural History's Rose Center in New York on Jan. 12, 2024 This brain scan image provided by Mount Sinai in 2024 shows the targeted sites for electrodes implanted in patient Emily Hollenbeck for use with deep brain stimulation therapy The road to this treatment stretches back two decades, when neurologist Dr. Helen Mayberg led promising early research. But setbacks followed. Large studies launched over a dozen years ago showed no significant difference in response rates for treated and untreated groups. Dr. Katherine Scangos, a psychiatrist at the University of California, San Francisco, also researching DBS and depression, cited a couple of reasons: The treatment wasnt personalized, and researchers looked at outcomes over a matter of weeks. Later research that followed patients over years, not weeks, showed that they achieved stable, long-term relief from their depression. According to one study published in 2022, DBS for depression is associated with average response rates of 60 percent. Today, treatments being tested by various teams are much more tailored to individuals. Mount Sinai's team is one of the most prominent researching DBS for depression in the US. There, a neuroimaging expert uses brain images to locate the exact spot for Dr Kopell to place electrodes. Dr Mayberg, a pioneer in DBS research and founding director of The Nash Family Center for Advanced Circuit Therapeutics at Mount Sinai, said: We have a template, a blueprint of exactly where were going to go. Everybodys brain is a little different, just like peoples eyes are a little further apart or a nose is a little bigger or smaller. Other research teams also tailor treatment to patients, although their methods are slightly different. Dr Scangos and her colleagues are studying various targets in the brain and delivering stimulation only when needed for severe symptoms. She said the best therapy may end up being a combination of approaches. As teams keep working, Abbott is launching a major clinical trial this year ahead of a potential FDA decision. The field is advancing quite quickly, Dr Scangos said. Im hoping we will have approval within a short time. Dr Helen Mayberg [pictured], founding director of The Nash Family Center for Advanced Circuit Therapeutics, speaks to patient Emily Hollenbeck in her office. Recent research by Dr Mayberg and others published in the journal Nature showed it's possible to provide a "readout" of how someone is doing at any given time However, some doctors are skeptical, pointing to potential complications such as bleeding, stroke, or infection after surgery. Dr Stanley Caroff, an emeritus professor of psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, said scientists still do not fully understand the exact pathways or mechanisms in the brain that produce depression, which makes it hard to pick a site to stimulate. It's also tough to select the right patients for DBS, he said, and approved, successful treatments for depression are available. Dr Caroff said: I believe from a psychiatric point of view, the science is not there. Ms Hollenbeck acknowledges DBS hasn't been a cure-all; she still takes medicines for depression and needs ongoing care. She recently visited Dr Mayberg in her office and discussed recovery. Dr Mayberg told her patient: Its not about being happy all the time. Its about making progress. Thats what researchers are studying now - how to track progress. Recent research by Dr Mayberg and others in the journal Nature showed its possible to provide a readout of how someone is doing at any given time. Analyzing the brain activity of DBS patients, researchers found a unique pattern that reflects the recovery process. This gives them an objective way to observe how people get better and distinguish between impending depression and typical mood fluctuations. Scientists are confirming those findings using newer DBS devices in a group of patients that includes Hollenbeck. Emily Hollenbeck said: 'When I was depressed, I couldn't listen to music. It sounded and felt like I was listening to radio static... Then on a sunny day in the summer, I was walking down the street listening to a song. I just felt this buoyancy... And I realized I'm getting better' This series of PET brain scan images provided by Mount Sinai in 2024 shows changes in patient Emily Hollenbeck with deep brain stimulation therapy. Analyzing the brain activity of DBS patients, researchers found a unique pattern that reflects the recovery process. (Mount Sinai via AP) She and other participants do their part largely at home. Ms Hollenbeck gives researchers regular brain recordings by logging onto a tablet, putting a remote above the pacemaker-like device in her chest and sending the data. She answers questions that pop up about how she feels. Then she records a video that will be analyzed for things such as facial expression and speech. Occasionally, she goes into Mount Sinais Q-Lab, an immersive environment where scientists do quantitative research collecting all sorts of data, including how she moves in a virtual forest or makes circles in the air with her arms. Like many other patients, she moves her arms faster now that shes doing better. Data from recordings and visits are combined with other information, such as life events, to chart how she's doing. This helps guide doctors decisions, such as whether to increase her dose of electricity - which they did once. On a recent morning, Hollenbeck moved her collar and brushed her hair aside to reveal scars on her chest and head from her DBS surgery. To her, they're signs of how far shes come. She makes her way around the city, taking walks in the park and going to libraries, which were a refuge in childhood. She no longer worries that normal life challenges will trigger a crushing depression. The stress is pretty extreme at times, but Im able to see and remember, even on a bodily level, that Im going to be OK, she said. If I hadnt had DBS, Im pretty sure I would not be alive today. Men and women really are wired differently, a fascinating study revealed this week. Differences in brain activity that hadn't yet been spotted by scientists was detected by artificial intelligence, revealing 'hotspots' that can be used to tell the sexes apart. The findings suggest there are key differences in the 'default mode network', a brain system that helps us process the idea of 'self', and the striatum and limbic network, which are involved in learning and how people respond to rewards. The researchers, from Stanford University, said the study helps resolve a long-term controversy over whether there are sex differences in the brain. However, previous studies had already pointed to differences in how men and women think, with women proving to have stronger memory and language skills, while men are found to be funnier and have better direction skills. Additionally, it was already known that men's brains were around a tenth bigger, clocking in at 1.37kg compared to women's 1.27kg, on average. However, researchers have long cautioned that this doesn't align with intelligence, pointing to sperm whales, which have brains weighing nearly 8kg but are not known for being smart. Previous studies have pointed to differences in how men and women think, with women proving to have stronger memory and language skills, while men are found to be funnier and have better direction skills. Additionally, it was already known that men's brains were around a tenth bigger, clocking in at 1.37kg compared to women's 1.27kg, on average, research suggests Humour While still fewer than men, the number of female comedians doing stand-up and featuring on panel shows has skyrocketed in recent years, perhaps inspired by the likes of Katherine Ryan and Sara Pascoe. But, incredibly controversially, researchers claim that men are typically funnier. In 2019, psychologists at Aberystwyth University and the University of North Carolina reviewed around two dozen studies, each of which measured participants' humour. For example, in some, volunteers were shown cartoons and then asked to write a funny caption. Judges then ranked the responses on funniness out of five. Results, published Journal of Research in Personality, showed that men were rated 63 per cent above the average humour ability of women, which the researchers said is a 'small to medium difference'. This does not mean that every man is funnier than every woman, they emphasised. The team suggested the finding could be a result of evolution, with women valuing men with a great sense of humour, as it is a sign of intelligence crucial for survival when humans were primarily hunter-gatherers. However, female comedians dismissed the study as 'unnecessary' and said the research could put women off going into comedy. Other studies have suggested that, rather than men actually being funnier, the idea that they are may just be a stereotype. Rationality Despite women historically being labelled as less rational, it is, in fact, men who science suggests are less logical, as they are more likely to make extreme decisions. Researchers in Australia looked at 97 studies involving more than 50,000 people. All were offered a hypothetical sum of money and asked how much they wanted immediately and how much they would take later, with interest, as well as what sum they wanted to invest in a risky lottery and how much they would give to charity. They were also asked how much they would give to another person, who would then triple the sum and have the option of returning the cash. Men were more likely to make extreme choices than women, according to the results published in PNAS in 2021. They were more likely to invest more money in the risky lottery, donate none of the money to charity and either share either none or more than 60 per cent of their cash with the person who could triple the sum. Study author Professor Stefan Volk, head of discipline international business at the University of Sydney Business School, said: 'We found men were much more likely than women to be at the extreme ends of the behavioural spectrum. '[For example,] either acting very selfishly or very altruistically, very trusting or very distrusting, very fair or very unfair, very risky or very risk averse and were either very short-term or very long-term focused.' He pointed to parental investment theory as an explanation, which suggests men are less selective of their partner choice and compete more for sexual partners. Under this evolutionary idea, men may have had to 'deviate from the average to stand out' and attract women, while women could attract partners without varying from norms, Professor Volk said. Directions Navigating is a skill that's generally best performed by men, or so the long-held sexist trope goes. However, according to studies, there is some truth to claims that men slightly outperform women on spatial navigations tasks. This includes one by a team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which was published last month. To find out why, the researchers collected data on spatial navigation abilities and distance travelled from home among humans and 20 other species. If evolution was at play, the sex that travelled further from home would have better navigational skills, according to the researchers. Navigating is a skill that's generally best performed by men, or so the long-held sexist trope goes But the results, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, suggest that in all species, including humans, males were better at navigating than females, even though some females travelled further from home. This led the team to conclude that the finding is instead down to boys being encouraged to play outside more than girls, making them better at mapping their surroundings. However, a separate study by University College London researchers suggested the gap in navigational skills between men and women is tiny in countries where there is high equality between men and women. Memory In the battle of the sexes, women have long argued that their memory is better. And research suggests they're right, with women outperforming men on all tests. Scientists at the North American Menopause Society recruited 212 people aged 45 to 55 and assessed their episodic memory, the ability to recall everyday events, and executive function, which are the skills needed to plan, focus and remember tasks, as well as other markers of cognition. Findings, shared in the journal Menopause in 2016, show that women scored better than men in every test. However, the difference in scores reduced between men and women who had gone through the menopause. The team put this down to 'the change' causing a drop in levels of the hormone oestradiol, which is thought to be important for connections in the memory centre of the brain. However, a team at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that men are better at recalling images and remembering their way back from one location to another in a 2019 review. Languages Women are also, if you believe the research, more likely to know their ciao from their bonjour. Fascinating studies have consistently shown women are better at picking up foreign languages than men. Data from the British Council in 2020 revealed that girls are more than twice as likely than boys to achieve a pass in their GCSE language exams, with researchers warning that they 'remain far behind on performance'. Data from the British Council in 2020 revealed that girls are more than twice as likely than boys to achieve a pass in their GCSE language exams, with researchers warning that they 'remain far behind on performance' However, researchers have suggested that this may be a cultural problem. A team at Dublin City University in 2020 said parents and teachers may be subtly putting boys off languages through statements such as 'girls are good at language subjects', which may be interpreted as 'languages aren't for boys'. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that women and girls are naturally better at languages than boys or men, they said. Other research has suggested the difference in performance is down to how boys learn and that they need to be taught a language through a textbook and in a classroom, while girls can pick it up using either of those methods. Emotions When it comes to emotions, women have long been considered to be most expressive sex. On the other hand, men have been typically painted as emotionally unaware of how others feel. While these ideas are sweeping generalisations, studies suggest there is some truth in them. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania scanned the brains of nearly 1,000 people aged eight to 22 and analysed their cortex, the area involved in thought, perception and language, and the cerebellum, which coordinates movement. Results, published in the journal PNAS, suggested that the cortex was much more connected between the left and right sides of the brain in women. This link up would encourage communication between parts of the organ involved in analytical and verbal tasks, according to the researchers. This may, they claimed in 2013, make it easier for women to process emotions and understand other people's intentions. Meanwhile, men had more links between their cerebellum and the cortex on the opposite side of the brain, which may make it easier for men to coordinate movement. Experts say fully black ink can make it harder to spot early signs of skin cancer Dermatologists warn black out tattoos can cause 'bumps and plaques' on skin Black ink tattoos which cover large sections of skin can cause infections and even make it harder to spot early signs of skin cancer, experts warned today. Machine Gun Kelly shocked fans yesterday when he revealed his dramatic blackout tattoo covering his entire upper torso. The 33-year-old Bloody Valentine hitmaker, engaged to Megan Fox, took to his Instagram to show off the tattoo which envelops his upper body and required '44 needles' to complete. But dermatologists cautioned that full body tattoos, which can also be seen on the likes of Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers, are not only more painful than standard tattoos but increase the risk of suffering an infection. They can also cause 'bumps, plaques or scaly patches on the skin', skin to itch in response to sunlight and make it more difficult to spot cancerous skin growths. Machine Gun Kelly, 33, shocked fans when he revealed his dramatic blackout tattoo on Instagram 'Complications from tattooing are not uncommon and the larger the area of tattooing, the more potential for side effect,' Dr Emma Wedgeworth, a London-based consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, told MailOnline. All tattoos are uncomfortable and cause some pain, but large blackout artworks can make this 'more extreme', said Dr Wedgeworth. When getting new ink, it's always important to remember that an infection could occur as a result of contaminated ink or non-sterile needles. Allergy and hypersensitivity reactions can also occur to the skin in response to any tattoo but the risk is even higher for dark or black tattoos, Dr Wedgeworth said. 'These can manifest as bumps, plaques or scaly patches on the skin over the area of the tattoo,' she said. The Bloody Valentine hitmaker, 33 - whose fiancee Megan Fox showed off a dramatic new look at the People's Choice Awards - took to his Instagram to debut a blackout tattoo covering his entire upper torso; MGK in 2023 His tattoo artist still has some work to go on the musician, and said the project is 'one of the biggest she's done in such a short time'; pictured in 2020 Another knock-on effect of covering up large sections of skin with a tattoo is that it can become harder to watch out for potential skin cancer signs, such as moles and changes to the skin, she warned. It also puts you at a great risk of 'sun-related itching and swelling' in comparison to small and less dark tattoos, according to Dr Wedgeworth. Dr Radmila Lukian, a dermatologist and founder of Lucia Clinic in Dubai, also warned that 'inking a large portion of skin comes with various risks'. 'These tattoos cause significant skin trauma, possibly leading to protracted healing and heightened scarring risk,' she told MailOnline. Plus, removing black ink can be difficult due to the deep, dense black ink making it a 'long-term commitment', she warned. Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers and MMA fighter also drastically changed his look and covered his upper body in black ink Research has also shown that tattoo ink can make its way into your lymph nodes, the body's centre for fighting infection and disease. In 2019, researchers from the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in France, found that nickel and chromium, which are allergens, are shed from tattoo needles when ink contains titanium dioxide a white pigment often mixed into bright colours including blue, green and red. 'Certain tattoo pigments can migrate from the skin into the bloodstream and lymphatic system, potentially collecting in nearby lymph nodes,' Dr Lukian said. 'This could lead to inflammation, immune reactions, or other effects over time. 'Additionally, certain tattoo pigments may contain harmful substances, such as heavy metals or carcinogens, which could pose health risks if they migrate into the body.' Black tattoo ink can also contain substances that are classified as cancer-causing chemicals, warns Dr Wedgeworth. 'The main ingredient in black tattoos is carbon black with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. 'These substances are classified as carcinogens and therefore we don't want high levels of them in our body,' she said. But Dr Wedgeworth noted that there is no good evidence to link tattoos to an increased risk of cancer. Those looking to get inked should ensure they turn to a professional. 'Tattooing is becoming more regulated and there are now rules to limit certain substances being used in tattoo inks,' said Dr Wedgeworth. 'Reputable tattoo practitioners require a licence, so it's important to have any tattoo done by a professional,' she added. Hotels included the Venetian, where rooms go for above $1,200 per night Las Vegas is in the midst of a bed bug outbreak, with four of its biggest hotels reporting the blood-sucking critters in recent months. Reports began coming in late last summer of guests leaving Sin City covered in bites, prompting an investigation by the Southern Nevada Health District. Officials found four hotels including the $1,200-a-night Venetian and Mirage had suffered from bed bug outbreaks over the last five months. It comes as bed bug infestations appear to be becoming more common, after Paris was rocked by one last year and the insects were also detected crawling around on the London Underground. Experts say the outbreaks may be driven by a harder-to-kill species that has recently migrated north from tropical areas. In the US, it has already been confirmed in Florida and Hawaii although experts fear it may have traveled further north. The above shows the four Las Vegas hotels reporting bed bugs in the past five months One guest @wilkinz posted pictures of the aftermath an encounter with unwanted room mates at the Paris Las Vegas Bed bugs have become an almost routine hazard for Las Vegas hotel guests, claim some, while Pete Rob (right) said he was only offered a change of room following the attack on him at the Horseshoe Hotel and Casino The health department launched investigations after receiving reports from members of the public. In their first investigation, revealed in the records release, officials contacted the Venetian after receiving a report of bed bugs at their hotel. The Venetian confirmed that a guest had been moved suite and had all their clothes laundered after they reported bed bugs in their room. Pest control experts were also called who confirmed bed bugs and treated the room with insecticide. It opened to the public five days after the bed bugs were first detected. In October, a guest staying at The Mirage also reported bed bugs to local health officials saying they had been bitten during their stay. Their complaint read: 'Hi there, I just returned from staying at The Mirage in Las Vegas, where I was bitten by bed bugs. 'The hotel inspected the room, confirmed the presence of the bugs, and refunded my money.' An inspection report showed pest control experts had found the insects hiding in the bed frame which were quickly killed using insecticides. In December, inspectors also received a complaint from a guest who stayed at Encore and said she found bed bugs in her room. Do you think the right is a cockroach? Can remove. Pictured above are images of bed bugs at two major Las Vegas Resorts which were posted on social media The hotel quickly sent in a bed bug sniffer dog which found one live bug, the report shows. The room was treated with insecticides by staff. And at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino, two complaints of bed bugs were received in December and January. In the complaint from January, the individual wrote: 'I found bed bugs in my hotel room. I filed a claim with the hotel management and they conducted an investigation. They emailed me stating that their inspection... yielded positive results for bed bugs.' And for the complaint in December, an individual alleged they had been left with 'bites all over' once they got home. In both cases, the rooms were investigated and cleared of bed bugs by officials. The Nevada Resort Association said in a statement: 'The minute number of incidents reflects the comprehensive and proactive health and safety measures and pest-control procedures Las Vegas resorts have in place to prevent and address issues. 'Unfortunately, these pests can be transported anywhere unwittingly in luggage and clothing.' They added: 'While incredibly rare, when reported, our members take swift action in accordance with health and safety requirements.' It was not clear how the insects got into the rooms, but Las Vegas welcomes more than 38.8million people every year both from within and outside the US. With rising numbers of infestations globally, this raises the risk of guests arriving with the bugs possibly hitching a ride on their clothing which then infest the rooms. Furious guests have previously taken to social media to report infestations in their rooms in Las Vegas. They included an un-named individual who stayed at the Paris Vegas, who posted pictures online of bed bug bites on their legs. 'Had the worst stay at the Paris Vegas Hotel,' they wrote. 'Room was full of dust and gave me allergia on the first night. Then my room mate got bitten by bed bugs! 'Hotel did not give any compensation or anything!' Another video from 2022 shows bed bugs running around on the floor at the Circus Circus hotel in Las Vegas. Chicago, New York and Philadelphia residents should inspect their mattresses as experts report their cities ranked first, second and third for bed bugs in 2023. The new findings were built off economic data from both residential and commercial bed bug treatments Bedbugs are not disease carriers, but being bitten by one causes itchy red welts on the skin similar to poison ivy Over the previous two years, bed bugs have been reported at seven different hotels within Las Vegas. Circus Circus which was finishing up a major three-year renovation reported two infestations within six months in 2022, records showed. And Caesar's Palace, where rooms can top out at $40,000 per night, also fell victim to the unwanted guests, along with Planet Hollywood, Palazzo, Tropicana, the MGM Grand and Sahara. Bed bugs are small insects that are up to a quarter of an inch long. During the day, they may hide in nooks and crevices within rooms including plugs, under the bed and small gaps in the headboard. But at night they emerge, attracted by the heat from human bodies, and suck on guests blood. The insects can leave large and red bumps on people's skin, indicating where they bit someone which often tend to be in a line. In more serious cases, they can cause skin infections and there are concerns that they could transfer infectious diseases just like mosquitoes although this is rarely reported. Infestations are notoriously hard to treat because the insects have become resistant to most insecticides used. This is often because they have evolved to have thicker armour which the chemicals cannot penetrate. Dr Phil has a PhD in psychology but has not been licensed to practice since 2006 The TV doctor said rushing into gender-affirming treatment is harmful to kids Dr Phil, America's controversial prime-time TV psychologist, slammed the medical community this week for rushing to put gender-confused children on hormonal therapy or give them reassignment surgery. Appearing on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Dr Phillip McGraw, 73, said he was shocked that America's leading child doctor group had endorsed the treatments despite countries like the UK and swathes of Europe restricting them due to fears about long-term side effects. He said: 'It's interesting they choose words like gender-affirming care. That's interesting that they call it that but really what they're talking about is hormonal therapy or sex reassignment surgery on children. 'All of the major American medical associations have signed off on this... and I have never seen those organizations sign off on anything with less information as to whether or not it does long-term harm of anything in my life.' Data shows that roughly 3,600 children as young as 12 received gender-affirming surgery between 2016 and 2020 in the US - which includes breast removal, genital reassignments and facial tweaks. The American Medical Association (AMA) supports gender-affirming care, which includes hormone therapy and has written to politicians expressing opposition to legislation that limits the options physicians and families have when making decisions for gender-diverse pediatric patients. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports gender-related treatments for children and Dr Brittany Allen, a member of the AAP's LGBTQ Executive Committee said doctors should consider puberty blockers and hormone therapy at appropriate ages for trans youth. Guidelines from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) recommends hormone therapy for adolescent patients with misaligned gender identity for more than six months who have undergo mental health counseling and 'have the capacity to make medical decisions.' Dr Phil, who holds a PhD in psychology but has not been licensed to practice since 2006, went on to say that by rushing children into hormone therapy or gender reassignment surgery, doctors were causing the youths harm. He added: 'I thought the deal was first do no harm. We cannot say in good conscious that this does no harm because it does [do] harm.' The number of children identifying as trans has increased, with gender dysphoria diagnoses rising and the number of children on hormone therapy also increasing. A 2022 report from the Williams Institute using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found 1.6million Americans 13 years and older identify as transgender - including 1.3million adults and 300,000 youths. Of all 13- to 17-year-olds, 1.4 percent identify as trans - the highest percentage among five different age groups ranging from 13 to 65 years old. Across the United States, the most teens identify as trans in New York (three percent) and the least identify as trans in Wyoming (0.6 percent). A separate 2022 report from Kimodo Health found the number of gender dysphoria diagnoses among patients six to 17 years old nearly tripled between 2017 to 2021, rising from 15,170 to 42,160. The above chart shows the number of insurance claims for diagnoses of gender dysphoria in the US The above chart shows the number of insurance claims for puberty blockers in the US Similarly, the number of kids diagnosed with gender dysphoria on puberty blockers rose from 633 in 2017 to 1,400 in 2021. Hormone therapy was used in 4,200 children aged six to 17 years old who had previously been diagnosed with gender dysphoria, an increase from 1,900 in 2017. Another 2023 study found that the number of gender reaffirmed surgeries (GAS) has increased substantially in the US, with breast and chest surgery the most common. The number of genital surgeries increased with increasing age. The study found 3,600 children between 12 and 18 years old underwent GAS yearly in 2020. The TV doctor blamed social media and the internet for the rise of children identifying as transgender, claiming that being exposed to content on the topic leads kids to want to 'distinguish' themselves. Dr Phil said: 'I think a lot of it is owing to social media platforms and the internet... You read about it. You see it on social media. And, you think, well, I can distinguish myself in this way. 'There is a social contagion effect. So people can jump on the bandwagon. But they've done things that can't be reversed. I think that's really tragic.' Dr Phil continued, saying teachers who support or try to help children struggling with their gender identity are not qualified and may hide the situation from a child's parents. The host of the podcast, Joe Rogan, added: 'These people that are teaching these kids, do we even known them? You don't know them... They could be insane. It's not like the threshold for teachers is so high.' 'You see a lot of these weird people teaching classes and you don't necessarily want them giving advice to children about decisions for the rest of their life.' He also added that young children are impressionable and may be subject to suggestion. Mr Rogan said: 'And here's an important point that people need to really take into consideration. There's a reason they have little kids become suicide bombers - because you can talk kids into almost anything. You talk them into believing in Santa Claus. 'You talk kids into believing in all kinds of ridiculous s*** because they're really young. You can easily convince them in one way or another that they're anything - that they're queer, that they're trans. 'You can 100 percent convince some kids of all kinds of things.' She 'drew a picture of [myself] making a cure for cancer' in second grade Dr Wu's obsession with the immune system began after she watched bone marrow transplants as a medical intern When asked by her second grade teacher what she wanted to be when she grew up, Catherine Wu drew a picture of herself 'making a cure for cancer.' While that is the dream for many doctors who get into oncology, it is becoming a reality for the New Yorker, who runs a lab at Boston's Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr Wu has pioneered the research behind a new frontier of 'personalized cancer vaccines' that are producing unprecedented results in clinical trials. Everyone's cancer is genetically unique to them, and Dr Wu and her team discovered how to identify these mutations and harness the body to fight them. By taking this genetic data and programming it into vaccines, they found the body can be turned into a powerful cancer-killing machine. Early stage trial results show vaccines are becoming increasingly promising for difficult to treat cancers such as pancreatic cancer, and could be used for many of the 200 forms of the disease. Her work has already won the Sjoberg Prize 2024 for her 'decisive contributions' to the field. Dr Catherine Wu, an oncologist at Bostons Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, has paved the way for the development of cancer vaccines specific to individual's tumors The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which chooses laureates in chemistry and physics, awarded Dr Wu its Sjoberg Prize last week for her work Born in New York, Dr Wu's obsession with the immune system began after she watched bone marrow transplants as a medical intern and saw firsthand how they regenerated the blood and immune system to tackle cancer. 'I had had really formative academic experiences that made me quite interested in the power of immunology,' she told CNN. 'There in front of my eyes were people who are being cured of their leukemia because of the mobilization of immune response.' The notion of a cancer vaccine has been around for tens of years, but many have failed in the past because the right target has not been found. Dr Wu was able to unearth the key to making cancer vaccines work. Along with her team, she discovered how to identify tumor's unique neoantigens. These are proteins that form on cancer cells when mutations occur. These tumor neoantigens can be identified by the immune system's T cells as foreign, and then attacked. Dr Wu identified patients' neoantigens by sequencing DNA from healthy cells and cancer cells. Copies of the neoantigens were then inserted into a customized vaccine to trigger the immune system to attack the cancer cells. Dr Wu was determined to test the technology in advanced melanoma patients in a trial. But the suggestion that each patient in the trial would receive a personalized vaccine was tricky for the FDA to understand, as they would usually demand that the vaccine was tested in animals first. Dr Wu said: 'That room was packed. It was the first [trial] of its kind, and there were people from many different offices. Our argument was, "This is personalized, whatever we do in an animal doesnt really match the human so why even go that route?"' Once they had secured FDA approval, six advanced melanoma patients were vaccinated with a seven-shot course of individualized neoantigen vaccines. The groundbreaking results, published in Nature in 2017, showed that some of the patients' immune cells had been activated and their tumor cells targeted. Four years later, a follow-up in 2021 demonstrated that the immune responses had worked to keep the cancer cells at bay. Dr Wu said: 'Im grateful for all the patients that participated in our trial because they are active partners. 'Its hard enough to go through treatment, but then to go through treatment that is of unknown benefit, and to be able to be willing to come in for all the extras that we need to do this type of research. There are more tests, there are more blood draws, there are more biopsies.' Dr Wu and her team, as well as other big pharma companies like Merck and Moderna, have delved further into cancer vaccine research. Trials are now in motion for pancreatic and lung cancer. Dr Wu said: 'My belief is that there are many roads to Rome. I think theres many different delivery modalities, but each delivery approach can be optimized with different bells and whistles. 'There has to be investment in and how to make that delivery approach work the best. And right now theres a huge appetite for mRNA you know, fed by our pandemic.' mRNA vaccines deliver instructions to cells to create the right proteins and contain a small piece of a protein from the cancer cell. Meanwhile, a new therapy class has been hailed as a breakthrough in cancer treatment. Similarly to cancer vaccines, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) uses immune cells from a patient's tumors to kickstart a long-term defense. Last week, the FDA approved a TIL for advanced melanoma called Amtagvi. It is given as an infusion into a vein in the hospital. The medicine works by extracting and then replicating a type of white blood cell called T cells taken from a patient's tumor. Patrick Hwu, CEO of Moffitt Cancer Center, told Axios: 'This is the tip of the iceberg of what TIL can bring to the future of medicine.' More than 90 percent of doctors in America report feeling burnt out on a regular basis, while 60 percent say they have considered leaving the profession entirely. That's according to a survey conducted by health company Athenahealth, which interviewed 1,000 doctors nationwide late last year, publishing their results today. Many doctors said excessive paperwork and patient demands were leading to their burn out, and they needed to work an extra 15 hours per week on average just to stay on top of their workload. Burn out has surged among doctors in recent years, linked to staffing shortages in healthcare. An estimated 250,000 jobs as doctors or nurses are currently unfilled in the US. The above data is from an Athenahealth survey conducted late last year on doctors The report was commissioned by Athenahealth and is the latest in their Physician Sentiment Survey (PSS), which reveals feelings among staff. Of the doctors, 750 were primary care physicians and 253 were specialists. They were interviewed over 12 to 13 minutes over two weeks in late October and early November last year. At this time, the US health system was beginning to struggle against a 'triple-demic' of Covid, flu and RSV for the second year in a row. At the tripledemic's peak, many children's hospitals were reportedly overwhelmed with patients. The survey also found that 60 percent of doctors believed they were not able to spend enough time with each patient. And 75 percent said they felt overwhelmed by patient's 'excessive communication demands' such as frequent texts, calls and emails outside of scheduled visits. Dr Nele Jessel, chief medical officer at Athenahealth, said that technology could help to alleviate workload for doctors. In particular, she pointed to AI which she suggested could help them with responding to patient requests. 'If we get this right,' she said, 'we'll be using the technology to reduce administrative work and increase efficiencies in ways that allow physicians to refocus on their patients.' The previous survey, which was carried out in January 2022, found that 49 percent of doctors who were interviewed said they were burnt out. A total of 63 percent also said they were overwhelmed, while 68 percent said they did not have enough time to spend with patients. It comes as experts warn of a crisis 'of huge proportions' hitting the country's health service with too few roles going filled. There were about 193,000 job openings for nurses in the US over 2023, estimates suggest, and about 60,000 openings for doctors. Many hospital systems were also rocked by staff strikes in recent months, amid disputes over pay and working conditions. The Alabama Supreme Courts ruling that frozen embryos are children under state law sent shockwaves across the country and left many wondering which states could be next. In the wake of the state courts ruling, which means people could theoretically be sued for destroying an embryo, Alabama doctors have been fielding calls from nervous patients like Gabby Goidel, 26, who chose to try in vitro fertilization after several miscarriages due to unexplained genetic infertility. She opted for IVF because the process allows doctors to test embryos for abnormalities and Ms Goidel believes it wouldn't be fair on her or a child to carry an unviable fetus that could miscarry or be born with severe health issues. Already the University of Alabama hospitals has halted IVF treatments over fears doctors will be prosecuted. Auburn, Alabama-native Gabby Goidel opted for IVF because of an unexplained genetic fertility problem. But she is now concerned about the impact that the Alabama ruling will have on her chances of getting pregnant The highlighted states have laws on the books stipulating that life begins at the moment of fertilization. In Louisiana, the intentional disposal or destruction of a human embryo is illegal UAB spokeswoman Hannah Echols said: We must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments. The unprecedented ruling by Alabama's Supreme Court is the first to endow full human rights to an organism so soon after fertilization and opens the door to similar rulings in other states. Ms Goidel said she was filled with dread when she heard the news. She told NBC News: Most of our embryos are not going to be genetically normal. My hope would be that we could let those embryos naturally pass, but now its, Do we have to save them? I dont necessarily want to implant a child that I know is going to miscarry. The ruling could open the door to wrongful death lawsuits in all cases where embryos do not survive being thawed and transferred to the uterus, potentially sending doctors in the state fleeing elsewhere to practice medicine. IVF advocates have warned for years that restrictions on IVF were a possible repercussion of the 2022 Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Barbara Collura, CEO of Resolve: The National Infertility Association, said: This is exactly what we have been fearful of and worried about where it was heading. We are extremely concerned that this is now going to happen in other states. Ms Collura added that the suit did not declare IVF illegal, But it did say the embryos that are handled in an IVF process are children. Are people. And that begs the question: Can we freeze a human? And if we freeze a human, who is liable for that? The ruling is limited to Alabama, but reproductive rights advocates have warned of a potential domino effect elsewhere. Kelly Baden, Vice President for Public Policy at the abortion rights group Guttmacher Institute, told DailyMail.com: This radical concept of personhood has long been championed by the anti-abortion movement and is now one step closer to becoming reality. The potential impacts are vastyour ability to build a family, continue a healthy pregnancy, or choose abortion are all connected; judicial and legislative attacks on one impact all. Which state will come next remains to be seen. A handful of others, including Louisiana, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Missouri, have laws on the books that say human life begins at the moment of fertilization and give those embryos the same rights as a person. Ms Goidel and her husband In Louisiana, it is illegal to dispose of embryos, which are called juridical persons. In Kansas, lawmakers introduced a bill last year that would establish a new crime of unlawful destruction of a fertilized embryo. An estimated 1.5 million embryos currently sit in cryogenic nurseries across the US. A lawsuit alleging wrongful death in the case of a discarded embryo could reach the courts in those states, forcing judges to make a similarly impactful ruling. Or, state legislatures would have to pass and enact a law barring the disposal of embryos and potentially penalizing those who do it. IVF is a process in which eggs retrieved from the womans ovaries are fertilized outside of the womb and implanted in the womans uterus. Doctors typically fertilize as many healthy eggs as possible to give the woman the best chance of having a baby; unused fertilized eggs are frozen and stored. Eventually, the unused embryos are discarded, though when depends on the clinic and what the patient needs. With possible consequences for discarding the unused embryos, doctors may be barred from fertilizing eggs that wont end up being implanted. This winnows down a womans chances of getting pregnant. Doctors typically fertilize as many eggs as they can retrieve during a cycle of IVF but, under possible civil penalty, may only feel comfortable fertilizing a couple of eggs, forcing women to undergo several rounds of costly egg retrievals to achieve the same pregnancy rate that they were trying to achieve with one retrieval. Providers may also be forced to leave the state for fear of being sued or because of the high cost of storing excess embryos. IVF patients also have to pay fees to store embryos, in amounts ranging from $350 to $1,000 per year. Around one in five American women are unable to get pregnant, and roughly a third have either turned to fertility treatments themselves or know someone who has. For women younger than 35 years old, IVF is successful about 47 percent of time. The landscape in Alabama has made the Goidels reconsider staying there. Gabby said: Were this very traditional family that just wants to have a kid, so I didnt realize ever that this was going to be a question of morality. We really envisioned starting a life here and probably retiring here. Were very much questioning whether or not we want to leave. Dominic Raab has been hired as a 'senior strategic adviser' at a Pall Mall-based private equity firm focused on mining sector investments. Appian Capital Advisory has appointed the former deputy prime minister and foreign secretary as a senior strategic advisor on global affairs. Raab announced plans in May to leave parliament at the next election, having originally won his Esher seat back in 2010. It has been reported that the Tory MP will be paid 118,000 a year for the role at Appian. New job: Dominic Raab has been hired as a 'senior strategic adviser' at a Pall Mall-based private equity firm Raab will chair a new partnership between Appian and SAFE, a US-based mineral supply chain think-tank, which will 'leverage Appians leading global expertise in green commodities investment'. SAFEs Center for Critical Minerals Strategy is a US-based operation which advises the US government on mineral supply chains. Raab will be 'supporting Appian on geopolitical strategy and risk, building on his significant international experience in UK government', Appian said. Raab previously oversaw Project Defend whilst in government, which focused on identifying key economic vulnerabilities in UK supply chains. In statement, Raab, said: 'I am excited to join the dynamic team at Appian to further the company's strategic objectives in critical minerals. 'I look forward to helping Appian expand international partnerships between investors and governments, so we can better navigate the geopolitical risks and secure the supply chains our economies need for the twenty-first century. 'The SAFE-Appian partnership will bring in private sector investors with the expertise and track record to reinforce the supply chain resilience of the US and her allies.' Last month, it was revealed that former chancellor George Osborne has been hired by US-based cryptocurrency exchange operator Coinbase. The former Chancellor was appointed to its advisory council, which would be 'relying on his insights and experiences as we grow Coinbase around the world.' Osborne has had a string of jobs since leaving government in 2016. At one point, Osborne had nine jobs. The head of UK weapons maker BAE Systems said it had been boosted by investors casting aside ESG worries to recognise the importance of the defence sector in upholding democracy. As the company delivered a bumper set of annual results, Charles Woodburn said that in the past BAEs value was marked down due to environmental, social and governance concerns. But those anxieties are starting to be overtaken by the acknowledgement of the key role of arms makers in protecting the West and democracy from aggressors such as Russia. Woodburn told the Mail: Theres been more balance brought back into that debate. What its led to is a more sensible debate around the importance of defence and security as a national priority. Spoils of war: BAE has benefited from rising global defence spending in the wake of Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine while demand has also been stoked by conflict in the Middle East Its the first role of government and often people say that but it hasnt always been reflected either in national priorities or investor sentiment. That balance has now got into a much more reasonable place. BAE has benefited from rising global defence spending in the wake of Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine while demand has also been stoked by conflict in the Middle East and US-China tensions. Meanwhile, BAE is also building new frigates for the Royal Navy, leading a fighter jet programme in which Britain is collaborating with Italy and Japan, and working at the heart of a submarine project bringing together Australia, UK and the US. In an update to the stock market yesterday, BAE posted a 9 per cent increase in underlying profits for 2023 to 2.7billion as sales rose by 9 per cent to 25.2billion and new orders hit a record 37.7billion. The results come almost two years to the day since Putin rolled his tanks into Ukraine. BAEs share price has since doubled. Woodburn said that the elevated threat environment has driven defence spending up the list of national priorities for many countries. Israels war on Gaza, in response to atrocities and kidnappings by terrorist group Hamas, has added to tensions. But amid the deaths of thousands of Palestinians and a humanitarian crisis, Western support for Israel has proved far more controversial than backing for Ukraine. BAE does not sell military equipment directly to the Israeli government but has been targeted by campaigners because it is a supplier to Lockheeds F-35 combat aircraft, which are used by Israel. Woodburn said: It is a very complicated situation and we, like many others, would like to see an end to the violence as soon as possible. The controversy has not stopped BAEs share price advance and Woodburn said that the company has gone a long way to closing the valuation gap with US defence sector peers, whose shares have for years attracted better prices than their UK counterparts. He said that has been helped by a reappraisement of the ESG debate. Woodburn said: Sadly, prior to the conflict, we were finding ourselves on the wrong side of that debate. And particularly our involvement in the UKs nuclear deterrent, categorised by a number of ESG funds in the same category as chemical weapons, meant that we were facing quite significant headwind there. Woodburn said BAE was entirely supportive of aspects of ESG such as being a good employer and contributing to the communities where it operates. But we also have long believed that defence and security is the foundation of the things that we take for granted in the West freedom of speech, democracy. BAE shares fell 0.9 per cent, or 11.5p, to 1241.5p on the results, as it forecast slightly slower earnings growth for 2024. Vauxhall owner Stellantis will start making electric vans at its Luton plant next year. In a major boost for the UK motor industry, the company will today outline plans to start production in spring 2025. Stellantis, one of the biggest carmakers in the world, said it was a sign of 'confidence' in the plant's future. It comes after it made its Ellesmere Port factory its first site globally to produce only electric cars. But the Citroen and Peugeot maker urged the Government to do more to stimulate demand. Concerns over insufficient charging infrastructure and the cost-of-living crisis have dampened demand. Production drive: Vauxhall owner Stellantis announced it will start making electric vans at its Luton plant from Spring 2025 This month, the British arm of electric car firm Arrival collapsed into administration, putting nearly 200 jobs at risk. Electric lorry firm Volta filed for bankruptcy in October, affecting 600 British jobs. It said it was unable to produce as many trucks as it expected after the collapse of battery maker Proterra, a key supplier. And Elon Musk's Tesla and Chinese giant BYD have been in a price war to win customers. Last year BYD overtook Tesla as the biggest maker of zero-emission cars in the world. In January there were 60,517 new electric vans on UK roads since 2018. Electric models accounted for 5.9 per cent of the van market in 2023 expected to grow to 9.4 per cent this year Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders data showed, as it added that lack of charging points 'remains the biggest barrier to faster rollout'. Stellantis UK group managing director Maria Grazia Davino said: 'While this decision demonstrates Stellantis' confidence in the plant, this first step in its redevelopment towards a fully electric future requires the UK government to stimulate more demand in the electric vehicle market and support manufacturers that invest in the UK for a sustainable transition.' Work to prepare the plant in Bedfordshire, which opened in 1905, will start this year. The site will produce medium-sized electric vans for Vauxhall, Citroen, Peugeot and Fiat Professional. The company will continue to make petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles at Luton. It will manufacture mainly for the UK, and make left-hand drive vans for Europe. Stellantis had a 47.9 per cent electric van market share in 2023, it said. A senior MP branded the IMF infuriating, just weeks after it waded into UK politics by advising Jeremy Hunt not to cut taxes The International Monetary Fund (IMF) was last night accused of dodging scrutiny as it sits on its perch in Washington to criticise the UK. A senior MP who chairs the Treasury select committee branded it infuriating, just weeks after the IMF waded into UK politics by advising Chancellor Jeremy Hunt not to cut taxes in the Budget next month and increase public spending. The Washington-based fund also intervened after the mini-Budget in 2022. Critics contend its gloomy forecasting record on the UK is lamentable. Against this backdrop, the Treasury committee invited the IMF and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to give evidence to MPs ahead of the Budget. Both refused. But while Conservative MP Harriet Baldwin, who chairs the committee, said that she was heartened by the positive intent and engagement shown by the OECD during our discussions, she added: The IMFs outright refusal to let us scrutinise their forecasts of the UK economy in public is infuriating. Yet they continue to utter public pronouncements about the UK from their perch in Washington. As the IMF is a public body partly funded by the UK as a shareholder, I find this incredible. A British mother-of-two has been left fearing for her children's safety after they were allegedly abducted by their father and taken to Syria. Alaa Azzam, 33, did not know when she dropped Kamal, eight, and Kefah, 10, off at Church Stretton train station in Shropshire on Valentine's Day, that it would be the start of a living 'nightmare'. It was agreed by Ms Azzam and the children's father that they could spend part of the half-term holiday with him. But just two days later, she received a call from a relative to say her husband had been seen in Jordan, sparking fears her children had been abducted. Detectives are now investigating the incident, with the children - who have dual British-Jordanian citizenship - being treated as 'high-risk missing people'. Ms Azzam has flown to Jordan in a bid to find them, but has since been told by her solicitor they have been taken to Syria, 'where there are no laws and no courts'. Alaa Azzam (pictured front) with her two children Kefah, 10, and Kamal, eight Alaa Azzam (pictured right) with her two young children. They relocated to Shropshire two years ago Speaking to MailOnline, Ms Azzam said: 'I am a mother, I will take any risk to get my children home safely. My children are my life. There is nothing more I can do than go to Jordan and save them.' 'My solicitors will start a High Court application but I can't wait until then. I don't know how my kids are feeling.' A court order is in place that states Ms Azzam's children cannot be taken out of the country without the consent of the parent responsible for them or the court's permission, MailOnline understands. Ms Azzam believes her husband has taken the children as a form of 'punishment', and admitted she has 'never been apart' from them. She fears the children were taken to Jordan because the Middle Eastern country has not signed the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed they are assisting a British woman following a situation in Jordan. Ms Azzam pictured with her two young children, who have British-Jordanian citizenship Ms Azzam left her former home in Swansea two years ago, after her ex-husband of eight years 'wanted them to move abroad to Jordan to live with his family,' she claimed. The relationship had allegedly been abusive before she relocated to Shropshire and moved into a refuge with the help of police. When asked about her husband, Ms Azzam said: 'He never allowed me to have any surroundings or community around me. I didn't have any friends until I came to Shropshire. For eight years, he was my life. She added: 'He was very controlling of my daughter. She had very long hair, so she said to me, "mommy, I want to donate my hair to Cancer Research. I said to her, "it's totally up to you. It's your hair. And you can do whatever you want my lovely". 'She raised 250 for the community. When her father saw her hair that short he said to her "it is not up to you to do that to your hair".' Ms Azzam claimed her husband abducted the children as a form of 'punishment'. Pictured: The family together In August last year, the court granted Ms Azzam custody of her children, while their father was granted access to see them on a fortnightly basis and on school holidays. Her husband, who is an A&E consultant, allegedly returned to Jordan after 20 years in the UK last year. Ms Azzam received a message from him in January 2024 to say that he was returning to the UK and wanted to continue with court procedures. 'I did not want to go back to court,' Ms Azaam explained, 'I didn't want to have this again. I'd had enough, and I just wanted to live in peace with my children.' Ms Azzam agreed to let her husband see their children and it was arranged for the end of February, during the half-term holiday. Kamal and Kefah (pictured) just before Christmas with a friend dressed as The Grinch. The pair are now being treated as high-risk missing people. 'On February 12 he sent me a message saying to me that on the 14th he'll be coming and picking up the children, I said to him, "okay, that's fine with me". 'My daughter starts crying, and she says to me, "I don't want to go back to Daddy. I don't want to go, and I don't want to see him". 'And then I say to her, please try and enjoy your time with dad and that "we have agreed that you need to build a relationship with him". 'Now I feel that I have let down my daughter, and I handed her to him.' Ms Azzam explained: 'I went back home and on Friday, my cousin who lives in Jordan and is his parents' neighbour, she called me and she said to me "Alla, where are the children?" I said to her "the kids are with their father having their half holiday". She said to me the father is in Jordan." Ms Azzam started frantically calling her husband, asking to speak to her children, to which he allegedly responded with: 'the children will speak to you in an hour'. 'My concern started rising again that there is something not good. I called him again, and I said "where are the kids?" and he said "shut up and listen to me carefully". 'And then I started shouting and screaming at him at the phone, and when I hung up the phone I called the solicitor. I called the police.' A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: 'On Friday February 16, we received a report that two children from Shropshire had been illegally taken abroad by a family member. 'An investigation has been launched and the children, aged 10 and 8, are being treated as high-risk missing people. Extensive enquiries are underway to locate them and ensure they are safe. 'The Foreign and Commonwealth Office are supporting their family.' Do YOU have a story to be investigated? Email megan.howe@mailonline.co.uk. A grandmother who has lived in Australia for 40 years but is facing deportation back to Britain is launching a last-ditch bid to stay Down Under. Mary Philomena Ellis, 74, also risks penalties of up to ten years in prison after a bombshell MailOnline investigation poked holes in her story. Ms Ellis went on television and begged the Department of Home Affairs to let her stay in Australia after she was threatened with deportation following claims she had misrepresented her continuous residence in the country since arriving from Britain. She said Home Affairs' claims that she left Australia three times under an alias between 1983 and 1986 were untrue, as were allegations her late husband Martin Ellis was really a man named Trevor Warren. According to her own account, Ms Ellis first arrived in Australia in December 1981 in the wake of a marriage breakdown, and began a relationship with Martin Ellis. Ms Ellis said she was 'terrified' of going back to Britain as she 'didn't know a soul' there, declaring 'I'm an Aussie'. She said she had paid taxes in Australia, and held a Medicare card, pension card and an Australian driver's licence. Daily Mail Australia understands there are no 'compassionate grounds on which the Immigration Minister could intervene in Marys bid to attain an 'absorbed person' visa. However, under the Migration Act, the minister could decide to intervene in Mary's case if he thinks 'it is in the public interest'. Ms Ellis or her migration agent Stan Shneider could request in writing for the minister to intervene, and Mr Shneider has now said he would do so. In a statement, the Department of Home Affairs said: 'Non-citizens who do not have the right to remain in Australia are expected to depart.' Mary Ellis will make an appeal to the minister after bombshell evidence which means she would not be entitled to absorbed citizenship because she re-entered Australia after 1984 Mary was born in England and has 10 siblings still living in the UK, but she wants to stay in Australia and says she is an Aussie after 40 years living and working here It comes after MailOnline used genealogical research to track down Mary's ten siblings who live in the UK, and her estranged daughter Angela who effectively torpedoed Mary's claims, saying her mum had flown to the UK in 1986 to sell her house in Croydon, Surrey. The bombshell evidence means Mary would not be entitled to 'absorbed citizenship' because she re-entered Australia after 1984. The crucial qualification for absorbed citizenship is that Ms Ellis would only be eligible if she was in Australia from April 2, 1984, and had not left the country since. Ms Ellis shared 'proof' she had been working in Australia between 1983 and 1986 and denied all Angela's assertions, including that she had ever lived in Croydon, or owned a sweet shop with Trevor Warren at Catford in London. She said she had never heard of Catford, known anyone called Trevor Warren, and when presented with the idea that she was Facebook friends with many of her 10 siblings, said they didn't live in Britain 'but in other countries around the world'. 'It's all rubbish, ' Ms Ellis told Daily Mail Australia, and called back to say, 'I don't remember anything from before I came to Australia'. Mary's estranged daughter Angela Potter (above) said her mother last visited the UK in 1986 and she and partner Trevor Warren had run a sweet shop in Catford - but Mary doesn't agree Mary had been married to UK soldier Sean McHugo, but the marriage failed and Mr McHugo (above, marrying his second wife June in 1988) has since died The Australian Federal Police told Daily Mail Australia it did not comment on individual cases but had 'a range of charges for persons who allegedly attempted to use wrong or misleading details to enter or leave Australia'. Penalties can include prison sentences of between 12 months and 10 years. According to MailOnline's research, Mary Philomena Walker was born in in Croydon, in 1949, the eldest of 11 siblings. Mary (left) in the Aussie sunshine loves the lifestyle here and says it is her home, but will now have to appeal to Immigration Minister Andrew Giles (right) to intervene in her case She was only 19 when she married soldier Sean McHugo in Lambeth, south London in 1968, and the following year their daughter Angela was born in the same area. It is believed that Angelas brother David McHugo was born in 1971, though no record of his birth could be found in England and Wales. Ms Ellis claims the marriage broke down and she began a relationship with Martin Ellis a name which the Australian government now say was actually an alias. His real name was Trevor Warren, which her daughter, now Angela Potter, appeared to confirm, saying under that name he and her mother ran a sweet shop in Catford. Mary is friends on Facebook with her brother, Roman Catholic Deacon Mike Walker, 67, from Caversham, Reading. Angela Potter said she hadn't seen her 74-year-old mother since 1986, when Mary came home to sell her house and then make the final move back to Australia to live Angela Potter (right) came out to Australia with brother David to live with their mother, but as a teen 'absolutely hated it' and returned to England to live until this day Recalling the circumstances in which her mother left the UK with her two children and partner Trevor Warren who later changed his name to Martin Ellis, Angela said: 'I havent seen my mum since I was 17. 'She and Trevor, her partner at the time, had always wanted to go to Australia. Trevor had at least one sister living there, perhaps two. 'Mum and Trevor went over to Australia first as a test-run. Then we all went out as a family. 'But my brother and I hated it out there. Absolutely hated it. I was only there for about eight months. 'I was about 15 years old at the time and I came home to the UK and lived with an aunt. My brother came back and joined the British Army. 'The first I knew of the fact she may be being kicked out of Australia was when my brother - who now lives in Australia despite hating it first time - sent me a Whatsapp with a link to the story. 'We haven't spoken but my brother keeps in touch still.' Mary is a popular figure in her community due to the time she spends volunteering and raising money for The Salvation Army, as well as having worked in home care Stan Shneider represented Mary pro bono (above, the two of them) and intends to apply in writing to the minister to have him intervene in her case Requests to Federal Immigration Minister Andrew Giles asking he exercise his powers to intervene in Mary Ellis's case must address specific grounds for doing so and state why it would be in the public interest. Ms Ellis' case is the latest controversy for the department, after it was caught unprepared by a High Court decision to release more than 140 asylum seekers - many of whom had been jailed for murder or child sex offences - wearing satellite tracking anklets into the community. Under the Migration Act, the minister can exercise discretionary powers to vary processes on character grounds. Mary is a popular figure in her community due to the time she spends volunteering and raising money for The Salvation Army - a charity that supports the needy. She has worked with Aboriginal people in home care and takes a deep interest in Australian politics, culture and current affairs. 'This is my home; I want an Australian passport. Even then I wouldn't go back and visit the UK, I love it here,' she said. 'I'm a good person, I've paid my taxes. I believe the minister is a good person but... yes, I am anxious.' An Aussie mum expressed outrage over an 'unsafe' hospital parking rule at Campbelltown Hospital. A sign outlining the rule states: 'No stopping. Vehicles setting down and picking up passengers excepted. Driver must remain with vehicle. (Fines apply)'. However, Sydney mother Kathleen Mallia has highlighted a significant problem with the rule: Patients are prohibited from leaving the hospital without an escort, and hospital staff are unable to fulfill this role. That means that anyone picking up a patient from the hospital could face a $92 fine for leaving their car unattended while assisting the patient. An Aussie mum expressed outrage over an 'unsafe' hospital parking rule at Campbelltown Hospital Mrs Mallia aimed to highlight the unfairness of the rule after her daughter faced the threat of a fine from a 'intimidating' parking inspector when she went to pick up her husband from the hospital. 'To make our situation worse, on that day my hubby was unwell, it was raining and he couldn't be left alone on a seat while the car was retrieved from the open air car park, so he had to walk to the car in the rain,' she told Yahoo! News. 'That in itself was very unsafe. 'I get people abuse the pick-up area, but for those who genuinely need it, it's not ideal. There just needs to be a better system and the higher ups at the hospital need to sort it out, because $92 is a lot if you don't have it.' Campbelltown Hospital (pictured) gives out $92 fines for people who get out of their car to help a patient from the allocated drop-off/pick-up spots A spokesperson from Campbelltown Hospital told Daily Mail Australia that they need strict parking rules in the drop-off and pick-up zones. 'Restricted parking is necessary in these drop-off/pick-up zones to allow for the high volume of vehicles and ensure a smooth flow of traffic. 'As a result, fines may apply in these restricted parking zones. 'We encourage anyone who has difficulty picking up a patient with frailty or mobility issues to speak to the ward's nurse unit manager so arrangements can be made.' Dr Anthony Brown, who works for Health Consumers NSW, told Yahoo that they're getting complaints from people all over New South Wales about how hard and expensive it is to park at hospitals. He explained that some people are dropping off their loved ones and then parking elsewhere to avoid getting fined. Dr Brown said this situation can really affect a patient's well-being, especially if their family members are stressed about parking costs or can't be there with them because they can't find a spot. Russian flags have been planted in the ruins of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, marking the biggest victory for the Kremlin since its forces took Bakhmut last May in one of the bloodiest battles of the war. But redrawing the battle lines has come at a huge cost for Vladimir Putin's forces, with tens of thousands of casualties recorded as Russia threw body after body into the arena to try to grind Ukraine down. The months-long assault was launched in the days following October 7, as Moscow hoped the world would be distracted from its ill-fated offensive by Israel's conflict with Hamas, experts claim. While Putin may wish to cast Avdiivka as a major victory, former US Army Colonel Jonathan Sweet is among those who argues that the price paid in Russian blood negates the symbolic success. And though Ukraine continues to lay waste to Russia's huge conscript army, Kyiv's failure to secure significant territorial gains has seen funding fatigue set in among its Western allies as the war nears its two-year mark. With support for Ukraine coming under increasing strain, Putin continuing to brutally silence domestic criticism and NATO facing mounting scrutiny, a Ukrainian victory and a Russian defeat continue to appear distant prospects. Both sides continue to lose, Col Sweet and foreign policy expert Mark Toth argue here, and the only way out is for the US and UK to ramp up support for Ukraine and deal Putin a deadly blow. The scars of war: A Ukrainian serviceman with his wounded head wrapped in bloodied bandages arrives for treatment after returning from the Avdiivka battlefield on Tuesday Russian forces have taken complete control of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. This photo taken from video released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Monday, February 19, 2024, shows an aerial view of the Avdiivka Coke and Chemical Plant The withdrawal follows months of fierce Russian attacks and marks the biggest change on the front lines since Moscow troops captured Bakhmut in May last year Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his generals' decision to withdraw from Avdiivka is not a Russian victory. Rather, it was a Pyrrhic defeat for all involved Ukraine, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States and NATO. Ukraine lost a tactically valuable position. Russian president Vladimir Putin lost a devastating number of troops, munitions and weapons ahead of Russia's forthcoming presidential elections in March. And the United States and its NATO allies lost an opportunity to put Putin down for the count in Ukraine. It is often said war is Hell and it was in Avdiivka. Putin's willingness to continue plowing as many Russian teenagers, old men, ethnic minorities, prisoners, foreign fighters and mercenaries as needed into the Kremlin's relentless 'meat assaults' against Ukraine was matched by Kyiv's willingness to kill them in what has become a modern-day version of World War I's trench warfare. The Russian 'meat grinder' counterattack into Avdiivka began two days after the Hamas terrorist attack in Israel on October 7. Coincidence? Hardly. The Kremlin needed the Middle East distraction to launch the attack on October 9, virtually without any western media coverage all eyes were on Israel. In moving on Avdiivka, a United Kingdom Ministry of Defence intelligence update estimated in late October 2023, that Russia likely 'committed elements of up to eight brigades' to the sector where it initiated a 'major offensive effort.' Now, four and a half months later, the cost for Putin measured in lives for this strategically diminished piece of terrain is well over 100,000 Russian soldiers eliminated. According to the Ukraine Ministry of Defense, total Russian casualties on October 9 were 282,630; on February 17 they were reported to be 401,350. Two soldiers of the Russian military engineering units walk after eliminating the mine danger in the city of Avdiivka, eastern Ukraine Intense fighting is continuing in Ukraine. In this undated image, Kyiv's forces destroy an armoured vehicle in an unspecified area of the frontline Beyond Avdiivka, by just about every metric, Ukrainian ground forces are winning the overall fight, except for the one that matters most retaining terrain. They have become adept in killing Russians, but the Kremlin has become equally fiendish in finding more bodies to replace them, then leaving them on the battlefield to die or be captured. Ukraine going forward can no longer afford a repeat of Bakhmut or Avdiivka. The close fight the one in the trenches, the streets and abandoned buildings in and around Avdiivka is not where Ukraine needs to be killing Russians. Nonetheless, it is where they have been relegated to do so by US and NATO restraints on the weapons provided to them. Washington's continued fear of escalation put into their heads by Putin is culminating into reversals of misfortune on the frontline battlefields of Ukraine and now competing requirements including the southern border, the Israel-Hamas war, shipping lanes in the Red Sea/Gulf of Aden, U.S. bases under attack by Iranian proxies together with a U.S. Presidential Election, are making war aid decisions harder. The US Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is the best example of constraining Ukraine. Arguably, the turning point in the war occurred when the US delivered 20 of these systems to Ukraine in June 2022, allowing Zelensky and his generals to take the fight to Russia forces. Kyiv did just that recovering most of the terrain lost to Russia during the opening months of the invasion.But, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal, the 'U.S. secretly modified the advanced HIMARS rocket launchers it gave Ukraine so they can't be used to fire long-range missiles into Russia, U.S. officials said, a precaution the Biden administration says is necessary to reduce the risk of a wider war with Moscow.' The missiles provided the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System, have a range of 50 miles. The modifications affected the ability of HIMARS to fire the US's Army Tactical Missile System rockets (ATACMS), which has a range of approximately 190 miles. Once Russia figured this out and it was not difficult since the modifications were made public, they simply stepped back their assets beyond the 50-mile range, or across the Russian border. They were given sanctuary and took advantage of it. Absent the requirement for sustained ammunition for their artillery, Ukraine is exceptional in the close fight. But for Ukraine to win the war they must be able to interdict Russian forces deep behind enemy lines by conducting deep strikes into the Russian interior and Crimea. It is the only effective way of disrupting Russia's ability to wage war and the only way to stop Putin from intentionally targeting and killing Ukrainian civilians with missiles and drones. A Russian military vehicle drives past residential buildings damaged in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict in the town of Avdiivka in the Donetsk Region, in this image taken from video released by Russian on February 20, 2024 It is also the only way to render the Crimean Peninsula untenable. US military doctrine is clear in this regard. Joint Publication 3-03 defines interdiction as 'an action to divert, disrupt, delay, or destroy the enemy's military surface capability before it can be used effectively against friendly forces or to achieve enemy objectives.' Army Field Manual 3-0 defines deep operations as 'Tactical actions against enemy forces, typically out of direct contact with friendly forces, intended to shape future close operations and protect rear operations. The tactics to do so are elemental in US doctrine; the willingness to unleash them have been restrained by the White House. The resulting cost has been measured in Ukrainian lives. This has been a reality for the better part of the past year, culminating now in the loss of Avdiivka. Many of the gains made during the Ukrainian counteroffensive are being slowly lost now essentially bringing us back to the start point of the second phase of the war twelve months ago: Bakhmut. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, then Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, oversaw that tactical Ukrainian withdrawal and now as the overall commander of the AFU, he has overseen removing Kyiv's forces from Avdiivka. A local civilian chops wood for making fire in the downtown of Ocheretyne, a village under heavy shelling in the vicinity of Avdiivka district, recently claimed by Russian troops in Donbas, Ukraine, on February 19, 2024 The West's 'just enough,' trickle down logistics and sustainment, and not what is needed to win, has proven not enough, and today in Washington, we are trying to play catch-up. Instead of developing solutions, Washington has turned inward on itself, pointing fingers and casting blame. Somewhere in Moscow, likely a command bunker deep within the bowels of the Kremlin, Putin is smiling while he sips on his glass of champagne gifted to him by Capitol Hill. What he and his military could not accomplish on the battlefield, he has through disinformation and the threat of nuclear escalation. Moreover, Putin is only getting started. Retired Navy Seal Chuck Pfarrer reports on his Indications and Warnings X feed that Russian forces have massed as many as 15,000 troops in the vicinity of Zenith and Avdiivka, and along the Kupiansk-Kreminna front. They launched attacks on Krynky, Verbove, Robotyne, Synkivka and Ivanivka, and fired North Korean 23 ballistic missiles at the capital city of Kyiv. The Russians are not going away. The Pyrrhic 'win' at Avdiivka solidifies Putin's mindset to conquer Ukraine at whatever the cost. Ukraine needs offensive weapons to stem the flow of soldiers and equipment to the front lines, air defense weapons to protect their population centers, and conventional 155mm artillery and cluster munitions for the close fight. The recent employment of Ground Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) and the new Precision Strike Missile (PSM) are a step in the right direction. Defensive weapons namely air defense systems, are a necessity, but they are not a plan to win the war; rather, a reaction to Russia's plan to annihilate Ukraine. Smoke rises above areas off the town of Avdiivka in the Russian-controlled part of the Donetsk region on February 19, 2024 The killing stops when Russia's ability to wage war is defeated and that requires winning the close fight, but also interdicting reinforcements and logistics sustainment with deep strikes. Washington, London and NATO need a comprehensive plan to decisively win in Ukraine. Until such time, everyone will continue to lose and yet, in a dystopian twist, Putin nonetheless will edge closer to winning a war his troops are losing by most measures. It does not have to be this way. Ukraine can win Downing Street and the White House can do what General Ben Hodges urges: body slam Putin. Lidl and Aldi are locked in a battle of the budget shops over opening new stores in a quaint market town, MailOnline can reveal. The budget rivals are battling to build a new store in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, a town of around 7,000 people in court. Aldi says the new store will create around 40 jobs and the equivalent of 5 million invested into the local economy when it opens its doors. But Lidl has lodged plans for a rival store on the site of a service station, about one mile away in the south of the town. The budget supermarket argues the new store will generate 40 full time jobs. Jonathan Neale, managing director of Aldi UK's National Real Estate department, accused Lidl of attempting to delay their opening. This comes after MailOnline revealed how Tesco is also fighting to stop new Aldi supermarkets from being built across from their own. Britain's biggest supermarket chain is taking legal action against the construction of two new stores in March, Cambridgeshire and Perth, Scotland - and is objecting to a third one in Diss, Norfolk. Tesco have six stores in or around the three towns whilst Aldi have two in Perth and one in Diss. In March, Aldi was granted planning permission for the store on Hostmoor Avenue last year. It will sit less than 100 yards opposite a rival Tesco superstore. Location of the proposed Aldi and Lidl stores in Hornchurch, Lincolnshire Tesco has opposed plans for three new Aldi stores in England and Scotland The two stores (pictured above) are within 1km of each other in Horncastle, Lincolnshire The opening dates of the Aldi stores has now been pushed back amid the legal challenges Lidl has been granted permission for a judicial review of East Lindsey District Council's decision for a new store East Lindsey District Council approved the new Aldi store last year but construction has been delayed after Lidl launched a judicial review on the grounds that the council did not consider its planning application at the same time. In a court hearing to determine whether to accept Lidl's application for a judicial review, the budget supermarket argued that it was told the council intended to take both applications to the same planning committee meeting in November 2022. But Lidl then amended its application to reduce the proposed floorspace, which meant further consultation was required, and so the Lidl proposal was not ready for the relevant planning committee meeting. East Lindsey council argued in the High Court that Lidl had withdrawn its application and there was no clear planning objection to the Aldi scheme being considered on its own merits. High court judges ruled in Lidl's favour that there was 'an argument that it was procedurally unfair to determine the Aldi application' and should have been 'considered together [with the Lidl application].' Deputy High Court judge Karen Ridge said: 'It is arguable that if both schemes were considered together, there is a real possibility that the outcome may have been different'. Artist impression of the proposed Aldi in Horncastle, Lincolnshire which has been approved by local councillors Plans for the proposed Lidl store at Boston Road service station in Horncastle, Lincolnshire Jonathan Neale, managing director of Aldi UK's National Real Estate department, told MailOnline: 'Our public consultation showed that the people of Horncastle really want an Aldi store. And having recently been confirmed by Which? as the UK's Cheapest Supermarket for the third year running, we can see why. 'This legal challenge goes against those wishes in the hope of delaying our opening for as long as possible. 'Those residents who told us how much they wanted to see an Aldi in Horncastle can be reassured that we remain committed to delivering on our plans and will work to bring our unbeatable value and award-winning quality to local shoppers as soon as we can.' A Lidl spokesperson said: 'East Lindsey District Council have an obligation to ensure that proper due diligence is carried out to ensure applications are determined equally. We look forward to receiving the decision from the courts in due course.' It comes just months after Aldi challenged Lidl over their plans to store on the Isle of Sheppey. Planning permission was granted in July last year by Swale Council for a new Lidl store to be built in Queensborough. The new Aldi store on Hostmoor Avenue in March will sit less than 100 yards opposite a rival Tesco superstore. (Pictured: Artist impression of the store) Tesco in March. The supermarket objected to Aldi's plans citing concerns over road safety, traffic impact and pedestrian safety But Aldi began legal proceedings in a bid to block the store being built whilst Tesco warned smaller shops would be affected and spending in nearby Sheerness town centre could fall by 25 percent. Lidl responded by saying: 'Unfortunately, since then (July 20), Swale council has received legal challenges. 'This means we are now prevented from implementing our plans, while we await the results of the legal process Swale council must now enter into. 'There is absolutely nothing we can do to avoid this frustrating delay as it is completely outside of our control, but I wanted to take the opportunity to confirm that we remain committed to delivering a food store on the Isle of Sheppey. 'We are preparing for our proposals to be reconsidered at another planning committee as soon as possible.' Meanwhile, residents in March, Cambridgeshire where Tesco are challenging the opening of a new Aldi store have accused the supermarket of being 'greedy'. Aldi was granted planning permission for the store on Hostmoor Avenue in March last year. It will sit less than 100 yards opposite a rival Tesco superstore. Tesco objected to the plans citing concerns over traffic impact, road safety and the safety of pedestrians and have launched a judicial review against the decision. Jan Grayson, 80, said she thought Tesco didn't have any right to object to the new Aldi store. She said: 'I think it's a good idea to open a new Aldi - it will give Tesco some more competition. Jan Grayson (pictured), 80, said she thought Tesco didn't have any right to object to the new Aldi store Jay Skoulding (pictured), 25, said he 'wouldn't be opposed' to the new Aldi store opening 'We already have an Aldi in Chatteris which is the next town down and we travel there to shop so having one in March would help. 'I wouldn't want the new one to be detrimental to the Chatteris shop - they don't have a lot down there.' Mrs Grayson, who has lived in March for six years, said March was 'pretty well served' in terms of supermarkets. She added: 'I'd like to see more shops on Broad Street which is our high street. 'They're digging up the town centre but all the shops along here are leaving.' Jay Skoulding, 25, said he 'wouldn't be opposed' to the new Aldi store opening. He was lived in March all his life and wasn't aware the new shop was opening. Mr Skoulding, an administrator for a property loan company, said: 'There's enough in the town for the moment but I'd like to see another drive-through takeaway. 'Tesco don't really have any place to say whether Aldi can open or not. 'That Tesco has been there for as long as I've been here and I don't know Aldi would ever put them out of business.' Carol Knowles, 66, said she doesn't shop at Aldi but one opening close to Tesco might persuade her to give it a go. Carol Knowles (pictured), 66, said an Aldi opening close to Tesco might persuade her to give it a go She said there aren't enough shops in the town centre of March which is a problem for those who don't own a car like herself. The retired cleaner said: 'I don't want to be horrible but Tesco are getting a bit greedy. 'They shouldn't be allowed to have a say whether another shop can open next to them. 'High streets in towns will have hairdressers back to back and none of them complain.' Ms Knowles, who lives in a retirement village, said her neighbours were really happy to hear about the news. She added: 'We have a mini-bus that comes and takes us up to Tesco every Thursday so having an Aldi there would be ideal. 'Everyone always says good things about Aldi - it has such a good reputation for fresh fruit and vegetables as well as the bakery. 'From what I've heard of it, it's the old way of shopping that we've lost in recent years.' Martin Ayres, 49, lives down Orchard Road in March and was born and raised here. Martin Ayres (pictured), 49, said: 'Tesco just want an easy life but it's inevitable that another business is going to open' He said: 'I think an Aldi opening would be really good for town. More competition is good for the other supermarkets, including Tesco - it's not like they're a struggling local business. 'Tesco just want an easy life but it's inevitable that another business is going to open somewhere close by them. 'They shouldn't have any say in something that's not directly about one of their shops.' Mr Ayres, a self-employed metal work engineer, said: 'The size of March means that one more shop isn't going to have much of an impact on anybody else.' Perpetua Mukize, 32, disagreed and said she understood where Tesco was coming from. She said: 'Personally, I think it's a bit tricky - I can see why Tesco might be against it as it's going to be so close. If it was on the other side of town, I think that would be better.' Ms Mukize lives in Mildenhall but comes to March regularly for her job as a care worker. Perpetua Mukize (pictured), 32, said: 'If it was on the other side of town, I think that would be better' She added: 'If I can't find something in Tesco I would pop into Aldi anyway - and I do look for Aldi price match in Tesco to keep the cost down.' Stephen Bartlett, 68, has lived in March for the last 35 years and already regularly uses the Aldi in nearby town Chatteris. He said: 'I'm pleased that Aldi is going to be opening as it's a lot cheaper than Tesco. 'Who do they think they are complaining? It's alright when they rule the roost. 'If Tesco are as good as they say they are then they'll survive, no problem.' Mr Bartlett, who has recently retired, said the addition of an Aldi would round off a 'nice amount' of supermarkets in March. He said: 'There's nothing much to do in March anymore - all this work is happening on Broad Street but none of us asked for it. View of the planned site for the Aldi in March which Tesco is fighting to stop being opened 'We could do with a retail park which was talked about a few years back - a McDonald's, Marks and Spencer's, that kind of thing.' A Fenland District Council spokesperson said: 'There is no third party right of appeal so Tesco cannot appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. 'They have, however, indicated that they will be submitting a legal challenge to the decision to grant permission that will be a matter to be determined through the courts.' March is also home to another Tesco store, a Tesco Express in the market town centre which is home to 21,354 people. The market town is already home to Sainsbury's, Iceland, Co-Op and a Lidl. MailOnline understands Tesco do not typically object to a planning application on a loss of trade basis or to delay a competitors plans. Now one of their ex-husband's is allegedly involved The pair have been trading insults for several months A vicious war of words between two feminist authors has escalated after one boasted of speaking to the other's much younger ex-husband in an alleged attempt to dig up dirt - with some of her followers then allegedly repeating a vile slur. Celebrity blogger Clementine Ford, 43, has been locked in a mud-slinging match with Antonella Gambotto-Burke ever since the Italian-Australian writer wrote a scathing review of her latest book in December last year. Since then, both women have hurled insults at one another, with Ford labelling her London-based adversary 'Gamblotto-nobody', while Gambotto-Burke has dubbed Ford a 'mullet Barbie'. Gambotto-Burke, 58, has also been working on an investigation about Ford for The Australian newspaper, due to be published soon. But the embittered pair's brutal broadsides have never strayed beyond the realms of the printed press or social media - until now. Celebrity blogger Clementine Ford (pictured), 43, has been locked in a mud-slinging match with Antonella Gambotto-Burke (pictured below) ever since the Italian-Australian writer wrote an excoriating review of her latest book in December last year Antonella Gambotto-Burke, above Ford, who has gained notoriety in recent weeks for helping expose the personal information of 600-odd Jewish creatives, claimed in a cryptic message on Instagram that she has spoken with Gambotto-Burke's ex-husband, Alex Burke, who allegedly has 'a lot to say'. The pair married in 2005 when Gambotto-Burke was 39 and Mr Burke was just 18 years old. They shared a daughter together before divorcing in acrimonious circumstances 10 years later. Gambotto-Burke claims she signed a gagging order with Mr Burke's family, preventing her from discussing many aspects of their relationship. The apparent escalation in Ford and Gambotto-Burke's feud emerged after Ford responded to an Instagram account with the name of 'Kat Fogel'. Ford and some of her followers have repeatedly accused 'Kat Fogel' of being a sock puppet account run by Gambotto-Burke. Daily Mail Australia has spoken to the woman who owns the account and has verified that she is not Gambotto-Burke, but rather a Jewish housewife living in Melbourne's south-east. Gambotto-Burke married her ex-husband, Alex Burke, in 2005 when she was 39 and he was 18 (the pair are pictured together on their wedding day. Gambotto-Burke was pregnant with their daughter) The couple divorced acrimoniously ten years later (pictured after their ceremony) The apparent escalation in Ford and Gambotto-Burke's feud emerged after Ford responded to an Instagram account with the name of 'Kat Fogel' (pictured) In response to a comment 'Kat Fogel' left underneath a picture of Ford, Ford said: 'Hi AGB [Antonella Gambotto-Burke] looking forward to having your ex husband at one of my Conversations With Men soon! He sure has a lot to say. Conversations With Men, a panel discussion moderated by Ford, 'invites five men to speak to the boys they used to be about the men they learned to become', according to the event's description. Daily Mail Australia approached Ford for comment about whether she has actually spoken to Gambotto-Burke's ex-husband. Mr Burke, through his lawyer, declined to say whether he had spoken to Ford but is 'working hard to move on from the pain he suffered in those and subsequent years' from his marriage to Gambotto-Burke. 'He does not want to do anything to trigger further suffering and harm to his reputation and mental well-being, and that of his supportive family and friends, all of whom have suffered enough,' his lawyer said. There is no suggestion Mr Burke has spoken with Ford beyond her own public comments. But Gambotto-Burke is convinced that her ex-husband has made contact with her arch-enemy because some of Ford's followers are now accusing her of a 'very specific criminal slur' her husband allegedly levelled at her during their bitter divorce proceedings. Daily Mail Australia has chosen not to repeat the criminal allegation. Gambotto-Burke is convinced that her ex-husband, Alex Burke (pictured) has spoken with her arch-enemy because some of Ford's followers are now accusing her of a 'very specific criminal slur' her husband allegedly levelled at her during their bitter divorce proceedings (pictured below) Gambotto-Burke claims she is applying to have a gagging order she signed after their marriage overturned. The author and journalist, who labelled Ford a 'hypocrite with a putrid nature' whose 'dominant characteristics are cruelty, hatred and vindictiveness', accused her ex-husband of 'malice that is off the charts'. 'In (allegedly) aligning himself with a woman identified as a digital terrorist, hate-monger and antisemite in order to hurt me and damage my reputation, my former husband has left me no option but to apply to have the gag order I elected to sign revoked,' Gambotto-Burke told Daily Mail Australia. 'Since I have been investigating Ford, I have been receiving various threats involving a very serious lie with which, curiously, my former husband had threatened me. 'This lie has been disseminated by Clementine Ford's malicious allies, whose social media reach is terrifying.' In an Instagram response to one of Antonella Gambotto-Burke's posts, Clementine Ford mocked the author for 'bragging about her boyfriend's massive c***' The feud has continued with Ford posting a clip of Gambotto-Burke singing and dancing with the caption: 'And here she is in one of the most embarrassing things I've ever seen in my life' Gambotto-Burke savaged Ford's book I Don't: The Case Against Marriage in a piece for The Weekend Australian in mid-December last year. She wrote that Ford 'displays a deep, sustained, and ugly rage against men, which she justifies as an appropriate reaction to misogyny... ' 'While there is no question that some of the points she makes in I Don't: The Case Against Marriage are accurate, the degree of disgust she expresses for men is more than disturbing; it should be illegal.' The pair also traded repeated blows over their views on the Israel-Palestine conflict. But the insults have also been more puerile in nature, with Ford mocking the freelance writer and musician's dance moves and Gambotto-Burke jokingly referring to her love for her own partner's 'massive c***'. A little over two weeks ago, while in South Africa Robin Windsor made a tearful call to a friend. I dont want to come home, the former Strictly Come Dancing star confessed. I want to stay for a few more days. Robins friend, who has spoken exclusively to the Mail, sensed that the dancer, then 8,000 miles from his home in London, was deeply distressed. However, the true extent of the stars torment became clear only yesterday morning, when it emerged he had died aged 44. Robin travelled to Africa in January to perform on a Fred Olsen cruise. The trip was a particular relief to him, the Mail can reveal, given that he suffered a troubling incident over the New Year. Susanna Reid and Robin Windsor performing on Strictly for Children in Need in 2011 He kept saying that something had happened over New Year but he wouldnt say what it was, the friend said. He sounded absolutely traumatised whatever had happened must have been truly awful. In the coming days, Robin did, however, return to London, the Mail understands, where he was found dead in a hotel. Instagram photos posted just weeks earlier show Robin enjoying a safari as well as the sunny beaches of Cape Town. But the dancers smiles belied his emotional anguish. On January 14, Robin wrote online: Remember, when something goes wrong in the circus, they send in the clowns to distract the audience. Well, something has gone very wrong with this circus and the clowns are everywhere. More recently on Facebook, he thanked those who had reached out to him, admitting that it had been a trying time but insisting: Things are looking up. While the cause of Robins death has yet to be confirmed, his close friend and former Strictly co-star Kristina Rihanoff hinted that he may have taken his own life. She wrote online: There are no words to express the pain. Robin wasnt just my dance partner, he was a friend and together we shared endless experiences from our career highlights to hitting rock bottom of rejection. Many of you, who went to see his farewell tour, know perfectly well that he spoke very openly about his mental health struggles and thoughts of suicide. Im sure it was devastating for anyone who loves Robin to hear that, but those thoughts were in his head for many years... Too much pain, too much disappointment, too much neglect. Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden's mother with Robin Yesterday, the Strictly team and viewers were left similarly devastated at Robins death. Burn the Floor, a dance company with which he performed, said Robin Bobby Windsors dancing started from a young age and never stopped. He lit up any room he walked into, he was a nurturing soul, full of fun. He brought so much happiness to anyone who saw him dance... Robin was a strong advocate for mental health. The dance world has lost some of its sparkle today. However, friends say Robins sparkle diminished some time ago. For a decade, he was said to have been plagued by mental health issues, which began when he was forced out of Strictly after slipping a disc in 2013. He sustained the spinal injury at an after-show party in Blackpool, falling heavily on a marble floor while trying some lifts, friends said. He underwent an operation and for months had injections to numb the pain, but he suffered an agonising trapped nerve and sciatica. BBC bosses decided they couldnt have him back, leaving him absolutely distraught. He never got over it, says one long-standing pal. He was a really nice guy who absolutely loved Strictly and was heartbroken. Robin always lived in hope that he might get invited back to be a professional on the programme, but sadly that wasnt to be. He kept in touch with the dancers and fed stories about the show to the Press. He never wanted money and the stories were always positive, the friend claimed. The star struggled to get out of bed, a friend said, and rarely left his home When Strictly was taken from him, he never really recovered. His entire purpose for being was blown apart. It was all so very tragic. The friend added that Robin was a gentle, fragile man in quite an aggressive world and was never really cut out for the gossipy and hard-nosed mentality of TV. Robin, who first appeared on the show in 2010, revealed his torment on the My Time Capsule podcast in January 2022, saying: It was the worst thing thats ever happened to me... I loved being on Strictly Come Dancing. It was the best job in the world. I think I loved being on that show more than any other person that was there. Describing his brutal sacking, he said: I got a phone call saying: Thank you for all your hard work on the show. We wont be needing you anymore. And that was all that I got. It hurt more than anything in the world. After all of the work that Id put in, how much I loved it, what Id been through with the injury... to be just pushed to the side, with no real thanks or anything, was heartbreaking. But, at the same time, thats showbusiness, right? Then I went on a downward spiral. It is thought Robins mental state worsened when his relationship with his fiance Davide Cini ended in 2014. He had proposed to Davide, a former communications director, on a romantic helicopter ride over New York. Robin had also been hit with a 100,000 tax bill, following his Strictly exit. The star struggled to get out of bed, a friend said, and rarely left his home. In 2018, Robin admitted as far as everyone was concerned, I was happy Robin except to the people I lived with. His torment came to a head not long after, when he checked himself into a hotel with the intent to take his own life. He wrote farewell letters to friends, and one source said that he had enough drugs with him to kill a herd of elephants. But his phone rang before he could carry out his plan. A source said the caller was someone with whom he had a love-hate relationship, and their conversation was enough to save Robin from killing himself. READ MORE: Katie Hind: Why ITV execs chose Cat Deeley to replace Holly Willoughby on This Morning Advertisement He began to seek help from the mental health charity Sane, but his recovery was far from smooth, and one friend said Robin hit one dark patch after another, finding spells of happiness in between. Robin was born in Ipswich, Suffolk, in 1979 and moved to London aged 15 to pursue a career in dance, studying the ballroom and Latin styles. Such was his talent that he represented England in international competitions. Wider recognition came in 2010 when he was invited on to Strictly. The first celebrity he was paired with was actress Patsy Kensit (formerly married to Oasiss Liam Gallagher), with whom he finished in seventh place. He went on to dance with Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, as well as Dragons Den judge Deborah Meaden and ex-EastEnder Anita Dobson. Away from the show, he dated X Factor runner-up Marcus Collins until 2015. Yesterday, it fell to Susanna Reid, who danced with Robin for the Strictly Children In Need special in 2011, to break the news of his death on ITVs breakfast programme Good Morning Britain. She choked back tears, admitting she was unable to continue presenting, and handed over to her co-host, Ed Balls. Later, Susanna described Robin as larger than life. She added: I fell in love with him and I fell in love with dancing when I danced with him. He was a remarkable dancer, incredible, strong, so creative... I just adored him. Lisa Riley, his partner on the 2012 series of Strictly, also told of her heartbreak. Sharing photographs of the pair together on Instagram, she wrote: My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel... now our forever Angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart... my very broken heart, I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven. Shine in peace. The Samaritans can be called 24 hours a day, for free on 116 123 Best friends Shearer and Dobson, who were both traveling from Kentucky on a Carnival cruise ship, claim they were drugged and sexually assaulted by the two resort workers Advertisement Strolling arm in arm along the powder-white sand, they look like a typical couple enjoying a tropical getaway in the Bahamas. But the two people seen in this exclusive DailyMail.com image are cruise ship passenger Amber Shearer, 31, and the resort worker she accuses of drugging and brutally raping her. Shearer claims that by the time this CCTV frame was taken she was steadily falling under the spell of a potent mix of sedatives slipped into her rum punch cocktail. DailyMail.com can identify the man she is walking with as Bahamian Warren Adderley, who once lived in Nashville according to his social media. Shearer and her best friend Dongayla Dobson, 31, have accused Adderley and Spencer Parker, another worker at Pirates Cove Zipline & Waterpark, of sexually assaulting them. The two friends had already posed for a selfie with smiling stranger Adderley after meeting him at the resort when their Carnival ship docked in Grand Bahama on February 4. DailyMail.com can reveal the selfie in which Amber Shearer and Dongalya Dobson, both 31, are seen posing with smiling stranger Warren Adderley after meeting him at Pirates Cove Zipline & Waterpark on Grand Bahama on February 4 Warren Adderley, 40, and Spencer Parker, 54, are pictured and identified here for the first time since they were accused of raping Amber Shearer and Dongayla Dobson, both 31, in Grand Bahama on February 4 CCTV footage shows Shearer, who has accused Adderley of drugging and raping her, walking off with him arm-in-arm to a secluded area off the beach around 10:09am, moments after the selfie was taken, while Dobson (not seen) trailed behind Time stamps from the CCTV video show the two women holding hands together as they returned to the beach without Adderley about 40 minutes later. At one point Shearer (in the peach swimsuit) appears to be extending her arm to take a selfie with her friend The beach at Pirates Cove where Amber Shearer and Dongayla Dobson say Warren Adderley and Spencer Parker sexually assaulted them But as they followed Adderley offsite to a secluded patch of woodland Shearer wearing a distinctive peach swimsuit and Dobson ambling along behind, just out of shot events were to take a shocking turn. The Kentucky moms say that in the 40 minutes they spent beyond the range of the resort's cameras Adderley was joined by Parker and both men proceeded to rape them as they drifted in and out of consciousness. Parker, 54, told DailyMail.com on a WhatsApp call that he was eager to give his side but declined to speak further after consulting an attorney. Adderley, 40, maintains his innocence, a family member told DailyMail.com, and insists that the two Americans were willing participants in a consensual encounter. The two women who live in Danville, Kentucky, have recalled their alleged ordeal in multiple TV interviews, blasting local police for not taking them seriously, and accusing Carnival of failing to pass on dire US State Department warnings about soaring crime in the Bahamas. But their accounts have not gone unchallenged with Carnival, Pirates Cove, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force all issuing statements disputing some aspects of their troubling story. Parker, is the half-brother of Pirates Cove manager David Wallace, a well-known Bahamian businessman and former politician who said he couldn't comment on an active police investigation. Among the trove of images obtained by DailyMail.com is a shot of the two Americans walking through the main entrance at 8:25am, Shearer in denim shorts and a blue hoodie and Dobson wearing a pink beach dress The two Kentucky moms have spoken publicly since the February 4 ordeal, and say that in the 40 minutes they spent beyond the range of the resort's cameras they were ambushed by Parker and sexually assaulted by both men as they drifted in and out of consciousness The pair returned to the sand and went inside a restroom where, moments later, they indicated to a female attendant that they felt unwell and claimed to have been drugged DailyMail.com can reveal that the two men arrested in the wake of the alleged rapes were fired from their jobs for fraternizing with guests but were released from police custody without charge, 'pending further inquiries'. Within days of the alleged attacks, Pirates Cove released a statement stating that the resort had 'time-stamped surveillance video' that 'conflicts' with the two women's version of events. DailyMail.com understands that management at the popular attraction, which boasts tropical-themed bars, a zip line, and water slides, hired an outside security firm to conduct interviews and comb through footage from 16 different cameras. They quickly zeroed in on interactions between Shearer and Adderley, a vendor who was on site that morning to set up a 360-degree selfie booth. Among the trove of images obtained by DailyMail.com is a shot of the two Americans walking through the main entrance at 8:25am, Shearer in denim shorts and a blue hoodie and Dobson wearing a pink beach dress. Carnival sells a Pirates Cove Beach Getaway package to passengers for $57 but has released a statement insisting the pair were on an 'independent shore excursion'. It's understood the gal pals had opted instead to pay the $16 cover fee but their lawyer, Nicholas Gerson, insists they read about the attraction in Carnival's promotional materials and traveled there on a bus with other passengers from their ship, the Ovation. The two women met the two resort workers at Pirates Cove Zipline & Waterpark when their Carnival ship docked in Grand Bahama on February 4 In interviews with US media, the tearful friends said their four-day cruise turned into a nightmare when a hospitality worker offered them a two-for-one deal on the resort's signature cocktails, which are mixed in front of guests and served from coconut shells and hollowed out pineapples The two women followed Parker offsite to a secluded patch of woodland (pictured) beyond the range of the resort's cameras where things took a shocking turn Locals took DailyMail.com to the area where they pointed out a discarded Sands Light beer bottle which they claim was the one that Adderley was drinking The timeline prepared by the resort's investigators says Adderley was seen interacting with Shearer and Dobson at 9:50am, according to a well-placed source. The trio posed for a selfie which Adderley posted to his Snapchat account before he was seen on CCTV heading towards the western end of the resort at 10:08am, Shearer walking beside him. She appeared to be linking arms with Adderley, who is seen wearing a lime green shirt, dark pants, and clutching what looks like a beer bottle in his right hand. Dobson is said to have collected her bag and gone after the pair, who were headed towards an overgrown area just beyond the Pirates Cove perimeter when they vanished from sight. Locals took DailyMail.com to the secluded spot this week where they pointed out a discarded Sands Light beer bottle which they claim was the same one Adderley was drinking from. Dobson and Shearer were spotted again on CCTV at 10:49am, holding hands as they walked back across the resort without him. Shearer appeared to have her free hand outstretched, leading investigators to speculate that she was using her phone to take a picture or selfie. The two women went inside a restroom where, moments later, they indicated to a female attendant that they felt unwell and claimed to have been drugged. They were then taken to the manager's office where they broke down and reported being raped by the two employees. When DailyMail.com visited Pirates Cove, there were several security guards on patrol and multiple CCTV cameras were dotted around the beachfront property which was teeming with staff Carnival sells a Pirates Cove Beach Getaway package to passengers for $57 but has released a statement insisting the pair were on an 'independent shore excursion' In interviews with US media, the tearful friends said their four-day cruise turned into a nightmare when a hospitality worker offered them a two-for-one deal on the resort's signature cocktails, which are mixed in front of guests and served from coconut shells and hollowed out pineapples. They noticed the drinks were especially strong so decided not to have any more, opting instead to go hunting for conch shells to take back to their kids. 'The man who raped me, he was the one who directed me to where to go to find the shells. I came to in the process of my rape,' Shearer told NewsNation's Chris Cuomo earlier this month. Dobson added: 'We were just conscious enough to have, or just aware enough, to know that they were in uniforms.' Shearer and Dobson, who grew up together in Danville, slammed the treatment they received from Bahamian police, claiming they were 'treated as criminals' and refused rape kits. They said these were eventually provided by Carnival staff when they got back on board their ship in the early afternoon to sail back to Jacksonville, Florida. The two moms also claim to have undergone toxicology tests on their journey home which identified cocaine, opiates and benzodiazepines a type of sedative in their blood, but very little alcohol. Ladonna Batty, a nurse practitioner and fellow passenger who comforted the pair, said she was '100 percent' certain they were telling the truth. 'Out of my 20-odd years of practicing, it was the worst scene that I had ever had to work. It was a horrible situation for both girls,' Batty told LEX 18 News. 'Something happened to them that they will carry for the rest of their lives.' The two friends claim that within 15 minutes of receiving their 'spiked' drinks, they were barely able to stand The four-day Carnival cruise on the Carnival Elation called at Nassau and Grand Bahama The pair are pictured on a Bahamian beach shortly before their ordeal began The Royal Bahamas Police Force insists its officers treated the alleged rapes 'with the highest level of professionalism, privacy and sensitivity'. 'Emergency Medical Services offered medical assistance to the victims, which they declined, signing a waiver and then leaving for their cruise ship in a private vehicle,' the force said in a statement. 'Recognizing the gravity of the incident, our officers boarded the cruise ship, providing a sexual assault kit and hospital form to the ship's medical doctor and obtained signed statements from the victims.' When DailyMail.com visited Pirates Cove this week, employees were extending the perimeter fence to stop guests wandering off towards the wooded area. There were several security guards on patrol and multiple CCTV cameras were dotted around the beachfront property which was teeming with staff. Tourists trickling in from a Margaritaville at Sea cruise were lapping up the sun and reggae music while paying little heed to a recent US travel advisory warning of a surge in home invasions, armed robberies and sexual assaults in the Bahamas. The pair say they were handed 'spiked' cocktails before being lured away and raped by resort staff at Pirates Cove on Grand Bahama The women say their ordeal only worsened with the arrival of Bahamian police who they say minimized their attacks and refused to give them rape kits Locals scoffed at the notion that visitors were unsafe in Grand Bahama, insisting the violence was gang-related and confined to the capital, Nassau, which is on a separate island some 130 miles south. 'It's a smear on the entire Bahamas,' bristled a restaurant owner as he fired up the grill at his beachfront club. Another local, giving his name as Reo, added: 'The security are always going back and forth and they even have undercover police. 'People walk up and down this beach every day, all day. Does it look unsafe to you? No way.' Gerson insisted however that Carnival Cruises had a legal obligation to warn his clients of the dangers they faced when heading ashore. He said the accused resort workers should come forward and give on-the-record testimony if they claim the women are lying. 'My clients don't dispute that they were lured away while they were intoxicated by these men,' Gerson told DailyMail.com. 'If the men are taking the position that it is consensual, are they willing to sit for a deposition in United States Federal Court?' Alex Salmond was at the Scottish affairs committee for almost three hours. In all that time he uttered the name Nicola Sturgeon not once. MPs kept mentioning her but the old bruin himself would not spit out the dread syllables. Actors fear a hex if they say Macbeth. Harry Potter characters avoid mentioning the dark lord Voldemort. Maybe Mr Salmond feared something similar; or perhaps, despite posing as a great statesman de nos jours, Big Eck is still gnawed by small-town hatred for Mr Sturgeon, the one-time deputy who in 2014 succeeded him as Scotlands first minister and proceeded to disown him. I wandered down the corridor just behind Mr Salmond and his small retinue arriving for this 10am meeting. He has acquired the gait of a corpulent penguin, feet splayed at ten-to-two, his jacket (possibly not Savile Row) bulging at the hems. The entourage trailed clouds of musky pomade. A Commons orderly, seeing all this waddling grandeur, shot me a wink and laughed. A jowly Salmond announced he had flown in from Berlin, having the previous evening supped with former UN chief Ban Ki-Moon, Bob Geldof and Sharon Stone. One hopes Ban, Bob and Sharon got their share of the boiled potatoes. Mr Salmond explained they had been at an international peace conference. Alex Salmond at the Scottish affairs committee yesterday Yes, one of the punchiest parliamentarians of our age has become a peacemaker. Pete Wishart (SNP, Perth) countered glumly: And I had dinner with Alan Brown. Mr Brown (SNP, Kilmarnock) has an impenetrable accent. He makes Mr Wishart sound like Donald Sinden. If you dine with Mr Brown and he orders soup, you might want to wear a macintosh. The committee was looking at intergovernmental relations, chiefly between London and Edinburgh. Mr Salmond disclosed that when he became first minister he heard nothing from Sir Anthony Blair, then PM. Once Gordon Brown took over, things improved. David Cameron was even warmer. Sir Anthony was just upset, really miffed that Labour had lost the 2007 Scottish elections. Scotland's former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon Mr Salmond was equipped with one small sheet of notepaper, possibly from his Berlin hotel bedroom. Behind him sat two aides: Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, a former MP who has become his inseparable amanuensis, and a thickset chap in the sort of three-piece suit seen at point-to-points. This fellow wore, on the fourth finger of his right hand, an enormous knuckleduster. When Mr Salmond came under brisk interrogation from Douglas Ross (Con, Moray), Mr Knuckleduster started grunting in a menacing way. Yet his master was in playful, expansive mood, eager to portray himself the wise elder, a grandee of power-politics. Mr Salmond dispensed advice, did slightly too much chuckling and merely toyed with Mr Rosss barbs. His enormous hams rested full-square on a chair that creaked. He twiddled his stubby thumbs. With round, sad eyes and two black beetles for eyebrows, he had about him something of poor Tony Hancock, had he only lived. We heard of Mr Salmonds personal friendship with Chinas ex premier Li and of the time he was admitted into the leadership compound in Beijing. (The SNP has something similar in Edinburghs Oxgangs, one gathers.) Mr Salmond yarned about the days hed chat to Hillary Clinton and to the president of the European Commission and a whole variety of other leaders, back when politics was big. It was only a little unfortunate, perhaps, that Michael Shanks (Lab, Rutherglen) reminded him that these days he now scratches a few bob working for the national TV channel of lovely Mr Erdogans Turkey. Talking of which dictator, we returned to Ms Sturgeon. Mr Salmond, still refusing to speak her name, rubbished her leadership skills, kebabed her former chief of staff and let the possibility float thats for them to clarify - that Ms Sturgeon and her deputy John Swinney may have lied to the Covid inquiry while on oath. Asked if he had advice for tomorrows leaders, he concluded: Dont rely on your old chums. Your enemies sometimes sit alongside you. Handcuffed and with a hood over his head, Adam Gamal could hear the sound of explosions around him. At just 5ft tall, he was at the mercy of a bearded interrogator almost twice his size. The giant hit him so many times he thought he was going to die. He was bombarded with questions and other Americans around him were begging for the torment to stop. But he wasnt in a war zone and the blast sounds were only simulations. Gamal was at the beginning of the brutal process of being selected for the most secretive fighting force in the U.S. military. It's so classified, it doesn't even have an official name. Adam Gamal, with his face obscured to protect his identity, was part of an elite U.S. special operations team so secret it didn't have a name He spent three weeks getting constantly smacked during interrogations, walking miles in deserts and training until he was so exhausted he couldn't move. It was all part of the hellish program to qualify for a unit of intelligence operatives who track down the biggest threats to the United States - while operating almost completely in the shadows. He found terrorists so he could pass on coordinates for missile strikes and gathered information on targets who had evaded American forces for years. The Navy SEALs and Green Berets are well known for some of the most historic and dangerous missions in history. From the raid that killed Osama Bin Laden to the capture of Panamas military leader Manuel Noriega, their names are etched in military folklore. But Gamal's elite team is so clandestine it is only known unofficially as The Unit or The Activity. The Department of Veterans Affairs doesnt keep any records and members cant ever discuss any details of the work they are involved in. Adam (right) and his boss prepare to go out on a mission. The location is classified and the details have never been revealed Adam (left as a boy scout) grew up as a Muslim in Alexandria, Egypt. The smallest student in his class, he gained an understanding of an array of modern cultures thanks to the citys metropolitan surroundings After going through hell, Gamal was selected and would embark on deployments to fight U.S. enemies in the most dangerous places on the planet. Arriving through the doors of a grim East African hospital after getting shot in the stomach, he fully expected he was going to die and never see his wife or daughter again. He tracked the head of the Somali branch of Al Qaeda and passed his location to the U.S. Navy, so they could take him out with a payload of guided missiles. Operators serving with him would dress as tourists to follow members of terrorist cells in cities around the world. When deployed he would be constantly under surveillance, and would come back to his hotel room to find the contents of his suitcase dumped on the floor. The story of his life - The Unit: My Life Fighting Terrorists as One of Americas Most Secret Military Operatives - is the first inside look at the highly-classified unit and serves as a message to the modern U.S. military When he asked staff if anyone had been in his room, they simply shrugged their shoulders and looked at him with the same suspicion of those following him. He has been to the most volatile parts of the Horn of Africa and has tracked down the globes most wanted terrorists. Al Qaeda and the Taliban were among his targets, but only he and those he served with will know the full extent of his sacrifice. Adam Gamal is a pseudonym because he cant reveal his real name. He even uses a voice changer to speak to DailyMail.com from where he lives, which he also cannot tell us. And despite the fact that his career finished years ago, he is sworn to silence about the full extent of his work. The story of his life - The Unit: My Life Fighting Terrorists as One of Americas Most Secret Military Operatives - is the first inside look at the highly-classified unit and serves as a message to the modern U.S. military. The book had to be screened by the Pentagon and approved before publication. Parts of the final version are still redacted. Gamal grew up in a Muslim household in Alexandria, Egypt. The smallest student in his class, he gained an understanding of an array of modern cultures thanks to the citys metropolitan surroundings - something that would serve him well when he was on assignment overseas. But he didnt yet know that his hours spent running along the sandy beaches was actually preparing him for missions in Bosnia. He also couldnt have known that his strict father - who insisted he come home between prayers at the mosque and forbade him from hanging out with certain bad influences at school - would protect him from the growing influence of the extremist Islamic factions which sprouted the militants he would later take on in his decorated military career. While growing up, the Muslim Brotherhood was in local mosques and schools sharing the propaganda and teachings that formed the foundations of the likes of Al Qaeda, Al-Shabab and the Taliban. His emigration to the United States at the age of 20 was the turning point - even though, fresh off the boat, he was barely able to speak any English. The elite team that is so clandestine it doesnt have an official name - and is only known as The Unit or The Activity Adam poses with his wife and daughter, he has never been able to share some the details of the sacrifices he made chasing down the world's most wanted terrorists It was his first time out of Egypt and when he touched down in New York, a cop had to show him how to use a subway turnstile. After a few years sleeping in spare roomsin New Jersey and taking jobs that got him just enough money to buy food, he signed up to the military. A few years in, he received an invitation to sign up to the secretive unit. At the first briefing he was told: We cant tell you who we are. We cant tell you what youll be doing. Those who werent interested in the covert position were told to leave. He was still struggling with his English, and learned with the help of a book he was given by an Irish-American comrade. None of his deployments were the same. For four years he hunted Aden Hasii Ayro, the leader of the Somali branch of Al Qaeda. Every time The Unit found the location of the terrorist trained in Afghanistan, he disappeared. The advertisement for recruits in the highly-secretive Unit But in the middle of a May night in 2008, Gamal had eyes on Ayro and coordinated an airstrike with $5million worth of missiles from a US Navy ship off the coast of Africa. On another assignment, while working in an embassy in an undisclosed location in East Africa, he walked into his office and suddenly heard an explosion. He was back on duty after being shot in the intestines in an ambush on the way back from dinner. His daughter was three years old and his wife, still in her twenties and unaware of most of the work he was doing, was too young to be a widow. If he died she would be p***ed, he thought. I think out of the fear of my wife, I didn't die, he said. After weeks in hospital and still taking painkillers, he returned to work and was back in the firing line. The blast outside the embassy made him shout to the staff crawling under the desks around him: This is not a f***ing drill. He heard a second explosion, and needed to get American diplomats out and away from the neighborhood that had five or six embassies. Terrorists had two vehicles outside, including one filled with propane tanks. One of the men grabbed an AK-47 and started firing at random from behind the car. Local security working at the embassy ended up killing the militants and blowing up one of the vehicles when they fired at the propane tank. Gamal hoped that his wife wasnt watching the news, seeing an attack on a random-a** embassy she didnt even know he was stationed at. But, looking back, he recognizes that his upbringing and the color of his skin meant he was an ideal fit for The Unit. He could blend into communities under the guise that he was either Arab-American or Hispanic. It also meant he was stopped at TSA check-in lines for screenings and Marines asking him whether his U.S. passport was stolen. As Americas military faces a potentially catastrophic recruitment problem, he believes hiring more recruits with an ethnic background could fix it. I wanted to show the American public what special operations do, and how it could benefit from diversity, he told DailyMail.com. Most of the books on special operations are written by, for the lack of a better term, your average white American from the Midwest, he added. America is a country of immigrants. Without the strong immigrant community, I think we would be missing out big time. So rather than demeaning immigrants, I think we should embrace them. He also says that immigrants who arrive in America thinking they are going to be Uber drivers or pizza delivery guys can have an impact by joining the military. Gamal also wants better care for veterans. Even in the Special Forces community, those he served alongside have suffered at the hands of PTSD. Too many, he says, get to the point of no return and take their own lives. I would've never gone that far in my life without being in the military, he told DailyMail.com. The Unit took me to a different level. But what I want to leave everybody with is,we are losing a lot of veterans to suicide. On surveillance missions, operatives in The Unit would pose as tourists to track down members of Al Qaeda Adam and members of his team prepare their equipment in their quarters while deployed Green Berets of the 3rd Special Forces Group get ready to complete a freefall over North Carolina The Bronze Star Adam gave to his daughter for her services when he retired in 2006 We are not doing a good job of taking care of our veterans. They dont just need medical care. They need social care When they leave the military they lose camaraderie they used to have. He believes support for the special operations is even more critical. When Americans tell elite soldiers thank you for your service, many dont know what they have done. They cant even talk about what they have done, and we need a platform where we can help them. When it comes to what The Unit is doing now, he believes they are everywhere and evolving constantly as one of the deadliest forces in the world. And even if he knew where they were and who was involved, he wouldnt tell us. The Unit: My Life Fighting Terrorists as One of America's Most Secret Military Operatives by Adam Gamal and Kelly Kennedy is available online and in most bookstores A man claiming half his ex-girlfriend's 1million Lotto scratch card winnings is facing trial for beating up another former lover, MailOnline can reveal. Michael Cartlidge, 39, is to appear in court accused of attacking Crystal Neary-Phillips and smashing up her iPhone 12 during a row last year. He denies two charges, assault by beating and criminal damage, and will appear before Lincoln Magistrates Court on April 18. The incident is said to have happened on April 15 last year - six months before he claimed to have scooped a joint jackpot with new girlfriend, Charlotte Cox. Mr Cartlidge is now embroiled in a legal war with Ms Cox, 37, after claiming they bought a winning Lotto scratchcard together only for her to dump him weeks later and claim the prize for herself. He admits that Ms Cox paid for and scratched the ticket but claims that he suggested the idea to buy one and later transferred her the cash to cover the purchase. Michael Cartlidge, 39, (left) is to appear in court accused of attacking Crystal Neary-Phillips (right) and smashing up her iPhone 12 during a row last year Cartlidge and former girlfriend Charlotte Cox, 37 (pictured) are at war over a 1million Lotto ticket after supposedly buying the ticket 'together' before splitting up weeks later He denies two charges, assault by beating and criminal damage, and will appear before Lincoln Magistrates Court on April 18 He says that the mother-of-one initially agreed to share the money, but after walking out on him changed her mind. Lottery chiefs Camelot previously launched an investigation which included viewing CCTV footage from a Nisa supermarket in Spalding, Lincolnshire, where the winning scratch card was bought. Mr Cartlidge had been hopeful that the money would be split but new Lottery owners Allwyn have now ruled that Ms Cox is the rightful claimant. Security engineer Mr Cartlidge maintains he has a right to half the cash and is considering launching legal action. He told The Sun: 'I am in shock. I can openly admit that we wouldn't have got that ticket without Charlotte, but she wouldn't have got it without me either. 'I know it was her bank account that paid for it, but it should go 50-50 morally.' Ms Cox, however, has hit back at the 'rubbish' claims with a friend saying: 'You can't believe a word that man says.' Meanwhile, last night, the shop assistant who sold the warring exes the card weighed in on the debate - saying the jackpot should be split 50/50. The Nisa worker said she clearly recalled regulars Mr Cartildge and Ms Cox, coming in and buying two cards. And she claimed the shop's CCTV picked up Mr Cartlidge showing her his phone, backing his claim that he tried to transfer cash to cover the purchase. She said: 'I'm on no one's side. I like them both. But I honestly believe that the money should be both of theirs.' Ranjit Khela, who had served couple that day, told MailOnline: We are now known as the lucky-unlucky shop! Diplomatically and not wanting to be drawn into who was entitled to win and who not, he said: Its a difficult situation. I knew the couple, both as local residents and customers, who have since split up. I recall them coming into the shop together, and this has since become a matter of contention for Camelot. I knew then as regulars and they seemed a friendly couple, and since all this they still come in separately. Mr Khela, whose customers have been discussing the bitter-win in store, said: A 1million plus amount is an excellent amount to win and I am happy the ticket was bought in my shop. But for one it was lucky, for the pother not so we are the lucky-unlucky shop. The store boss recalled serving the couple - with their purchase captured on CCTV - telling our website: They came in. together and made a few purchases and bought some scratch cards. But I do not recall who made the purchase and paid for it ,and whether by card or cash, we are so busy here at times and it was a weekend night. Meanwhile in Ms Cox's local pub regulars say she has told them her ex won't receive a penny. They told MailOnline that she has already been to a car dealership and has her eye on a brand new BMW. One said: Charlottes had a hard time, and shes struggled like many of us, and were chuffed to bits thats shes won a million. It may not be much to some people but for her it is a life changing amount - It won't change her as a person but it will change her lifestyle for the better, and good luck to her. She deserves it! She was so excited when we all saw her in here yesterday, She had been to a nearby BWM dealership in either Boston or Peterborough and had just bought outright a luxury brand new BMW. She was showing us pictures and was saying I cant believe Im going to be owning a spanking new top of the range car and we were genuinely so happy for her. Ms Cox had been with her ex for three months before the Lotto drama started. On the night of the win last November, Mr Cartlidge had been living at Ms Cox's house in Spalding and they decided to pop to their local Lidl to buy duck pancakes for dinner. He then claims he suggested to go to the Nisa next door to buy a couple of 5 scratchcards. According to Mr Cartlidge, his former partner paid for two scratchcards as he had no cash on him. The incident is said to have happened on April 15 last year - six months before he claimed to have scooped a joint jackpot with new girlfriend, Charlotte Cox He says that the mother-of-one initially agreed to share the cash, but after walking out on him weeks later, claimed to be the sole winner He tried to send her money for the scratch cards in the shop via a bank transfer app but the signal was bad and the payment did not go through immediately. To their amazement when they scratched off the cards back at home, one landed them the 1million jackpot. Forty minutes later, Mr Cartlidge said his money transfer went through. The couple celebrated their win with a trip to the seaside. They had multiple plans in the works such as buying a house together and purchasing a car. The ticket was put in Ms Cox's name, but said the money was due to go into a joint account. But three weeks later, 'out of the blue', Mr Cartlidge received a call via one of her friends telling him to leave the house. He did just that but fearing Ms Cox was up to something, he took the winning scratchcard with him to go and stay at his mother's house nearby. Upon returning home, Ms Cox realised the card had been taken and got in touch with Camelot to get help with the situation. Following some mediation, in which representatives from Camelot travelled to Lincolnshire to interview the pair separately about the dispute, they were able to get the ticket back. Mr Cartlidge said that he spent Christmas Eve at Ms Cox's house dressed up as Father Christmas, believing the pair had put the dispute behind them. On January 25, a Camelot official sent a message to the former couple saying that the legal team were still deciding what to do but that a draft was being prepared regarding the sharing of the prize. Ms Cox claimed her former partner had 'no right' to the jackpot Yet on February 10, less than two weeks since new owner Allwyn took over the running of the National Lottery, Mr Cartlidge was sent a letter saying he was not entitled to any money. According to Allwyn's rules, only the name written on the back of the ticket can claim the prize. In a statement, the company said: 'The National Lottery Rules for Scratchcard Games make clear that only one person can be the owner of a ticket and that only the person whose name and address is written on the back of a winning scratchcard can claim a prize. 'This means that a prize can only be paid to one person and this is always communicated clearly to prize claimants. 'Where a claimant agrees to share a prize with other parties (for example, players in a syndicate) after the prize has been paid, we always recommend that a legal agreement is drawn up between the interested parties. 'If there is no agreement in place, any dispute between the parties needs to be resolved between themselves.' Anthony Albanese has shot down rumours he will hold an early election after internal messages from his government were leaked. The Prime Minister's chief of staff Tim Gartrell sent a message to his team saying veteran Labor staffer David Epstein was joining as principal private secretary. The message explained the hire had been made as 'we enter the election year'. The next federal election is slated for 2025, however the text raised speculation it could be held as early as this year. Mr Albanese quickly poured cold water on the rumour labelling it a 'beat-up'. Speculation has risen that an early election may be called after a leaked text message from Anthony Albanese's chief of staff Mr Gatrell sent the encrypted message to staff on Monday saying Mr Epstein would be joining the office on March 4. 'I just want to give you a heads up on a new addition to the PMO,' it read. 'David Epstein will be joining the leadership of the office in the role of Principal Private Secretary (PPS). 'This is a role many PMOs have had and, in short, it's a senior person on high level matters. 'This is an important role as we enter the election year and David is well-qualified for the role, having worked for Labor in a range of senior roles over five successive governments and opposition.' Mr Gartrell described Mr Epstein as 'one of the most experienced advisers around' with the Labor veteran the former chief of staff for ex-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. The messages were leaked to the public on Tuesday and raised confusion among many Australians. Mr Albanese had said earlier in the month governments should serve their full term, publicly indicating voters wouldn't take to the polls until at least 2025. The Prime Minister was forced to reassure Australians this was still the case. 'If you look at the memo that came from my Chief of Staff, it's about someone joining my staff, in March,' Mr Albanese told ABC Radio Sydney on Wednesday. The Prime Minister's chief of staff Tim Gartrell announced to the team that veteran Labor staffer David Epstein was joining the office as principal private secretary 'And the term ends in May next year.' Mr Albanese's time in office has not been easy including the recent fallout from the failure of the Voice to Parliament referendum. The referendum asked Australians to vote on whether they wanted to the Constitution to change to recognise First Nations people. Every state except the ACT voted no on October 14. Mr Albanese was also given the nickname 'Airbus Albo' for notching up more than 30 overseas trips since stepping into the top job in May, 2022. His trips have drawn outrage from Aussies in the past who have accused the prime minister of neglecting issues close to home. The Albanese government has also faced criticism following the release of detainees in November after the High Court found indefinite detention to be unlawful. Documents tendered to the senate last week, revealed that among the 149 released detainees are 37 sex offenders, 72 convicted of violent offending, kidnapping or armed robbery, and seven convicted of either murder or attempted murder. The government's delayed attempts to put the detainees back behind bars has led to calls for Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to be axed. Mr Epstein is heavily well-regarded in Labor circles, having served as Director of the Ministerial Media Group and National Media Liaison for Bob Hawke and Paul Keating. Mr Epstein (right) is heavily well-regarded in Labor circles, having served as Director of the Ministerial Media Group and National Media Liaison for Bob Hawke and Paul Keating. He was also the chief of staff for Opposition leader Kim Beazley in 1997 to 1999. Mr Epstein also served as Kevin Rudd's chief of staff, helping Labor to victory in the 2007 election. Mr Albanese had earlier said the three-year parliamentary terms were 'too short'. 'Our view, our long-term policy, and we've put it to the Australian people, is for four-year terms, but I don't anticipate that happening any time soon and I think that's unfortunate,' he said. Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil appeared on Sunrise on Wednesday morning and said 'we shouldn't overblow' something as simple as a text message. 'Something the prime minister has talked a lot about to me and to the public is that we have had far too much instability in Australian politics for a long time, and we are running a government that has stability and good government at the heart of everything we do,' she said. 'I know the prime minister is keen to run a full term. That finishes in May 2025. That's when I'm expecting the election will be.' When grilled by Nat Barr if she was 'surprised', by the text, Ms O'Neil repeatedly downplayed the message. 'I'm just saying the prime minister has talked about the fact he wants to run a full term and I don't think a text message really interrupts that,' she said. A severe heatwave is set to scorch large parts of Australia while residents along the west coast have been warned to prepare for a cyclone. The coast of Western Australia could see its first cyclone this weekend with the threat of ex-tropical Cyclone Lincoln redeveloping as it continues to track west. Meanwhile, low to severe intensity heatwave conditions have been forecast over northwestern and interior parts of WA. Low intensity heatwave conditions are expected over the southwestern region of the Northern Territory, far northwestern South Australia and far southeast Queensland. It will also affect parts of eastern New South Wales and parts of Victoria and Tasmania - including Hobart. Thunderstorms are forecast for Sydney adding to a week of heavy rain, flash flooding and power outages, while showers will develop later in the week in Brisbane. A severe heatwave is set to scorch large parts of Australia while residents along the west coast have been warned to prepare for a cyclone Ex-cyclone Lincoln is forecast to redevelop and make landfall (pictured) with Western Australia's coast on Saturday Perth Sunny skies are set to stay over Perth with temperatures steadily rising through to Saturday. A top of 30C is forecast for Wednesday, followed by 34C on Thursday and 38C on Friday. Meanwhile in the state's north, ex-tropical cyclone Lincoln is slowly tracking west across the Kimberley, bringing heavy rainfall to areas near its path. The system weakened as it moved over inland Western Australia and, earlier this week, the Northern Territory. However, it could re-intensify into a tropical cyclone as it moves off the western coast. 'The system will reach the waters west of the Kimberley Wednesday and slowly develop on Thursday,' the Bureau of Meteorology said. 'There is a moderate risk it could redevelop into a tropical cyclone. 'The risk of redevelopment increases to high on Friday and Saturday.' The system is expected to make landfall on the Pilbara coast on Saturday and weaken as it moves inland. It will be the first cyclone to affect WA's coast this season. Weatherzone meteorologist Ashleigh Lange warned the system has already brought widespread heavy rainfall, flooding and strong winds to several regions. A low-intensity to severe heatwave (forecast pictured) will affect parts of Western Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales this week 'The ex-tropical cyclone has dumped hundreds of millimetres of rainfall in its track and continued to bring the risk of heavy rain and flooding to parts of the Gregory and Tanami districts in the NT and the Kimberley in WA on Tuesday,' she said. 'There is a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall in these districts, where six hourly rainfall total could be between 60 to 100mm and 24 hour totals up to 200mm are possible.' A severe weather warning for heavy rainfall was issued for parts of the Kimberley district on Wednesday. As of Wednesday morning, ex-tropical cyclone Lincoln was located northwest of Halls Creek. The small town of Halls Creek was the wettest place in Australia at 5.30am AWST with 120.6mm recorded from 9am on Tuesday. Regions to be affected by the severe weather include Halls Creek, Kununurra, Wyndham, Mount Barnett, Troughton Island and Warmun. 'Six-hourly rainfall totals between 50 to 80mm and 24-hourly rainfall totals between 80 to 120mm are likely. Isolated 24 hour falls reaching up to 200mm are possible,' the Bureau said. A flood watch has been issued for East, West and North Kimberley and Fitzroy Rivers and Sturt Creek. 'Many roads, and possibly primary and secondary highways may be affected. Some communities and homesteads may become isolated,' the Bureau warned. Perth could see some grey skies and showers from the system over the weekend with rain most likely to fall on Sunday. The small town of Halls Creek was the wettest place in Australia at 5.30am AWST with 120.6mm recorded from 9am on Tuesday (pictured, flooding at Halls Creek) Several parts of the state are also battling a heatwave. A severe heatwave warning was issued for the Pilbara, Gascoyne, Goldfields, Eucla, South Interior, Central West, Lower West, South West, South Coastal, South East Coastal, Great Southern and Central Wheat Belt districts. 'A prolonged period of severe heatwave is continuing for much of WA,' the Bureau said. 'Heatwave conditions are currently at or near their peak and will begin to ease from the southwest from mid week and be largely confined to the interior by the weekend.' Very hot, dry and fresh winds have also increased the fire danger to high and extreme in the Lakes, Fitzgerald Coast, Fitzgerald Inland, Esperance Coast and Esperance Inland fire districts. Brisbane Brisbane is looking at a hot and humid Wednesday with a top of 30C coupled with a medium chance of showers and light winds. Grey skies over the city are set to partially clear on Thursday ahead of a sunny Friday. However, showers will redevelop from Saturday afternoon with the chance of a late thunderstorm. Heavy rainfall through Queensland has led to flooding in several areas. A major flood warning was issued for the Flinders and Nicholson Rivers. The Bureau issued moderate flood warnings for Eyre Creek and the Diamantina River. Minor flood warnings remain active for the Georgina River, Barcoo River, Bokhara River, Bulloo River, Norman River, Paroo River and Cooper Creek. A severe weather warning was issued for parts of the Kimberley district (pictured) on Wednesday Sydney Cloudy skies over Sydney on Wednesday have a high chance of developing into showers in the morning and afternoon with a small chance of a thunderstorm. The rain is forecast to ease for a cloudy Thursday before storms move over the city on Friday. High temperatures of 30C and 34C on Wednesday and Thursday are forecast to drop from Friday with a top of just 24C. Recent rainfall across parts of the Paroo River in Queensland and New South Wales has caused the river level rises across several catchments. The Bureau has issued a minor flood warning for Willara Crossing and Wanaaring, in the state's north. 'Showers and thunderstorms are possible for the Paroo River catchment over the next few days, however rainfall totals are not expected to further impact river levels,' the Bureau said. The city was lashed by a flurry of severe thunderstorms on Monday, causing heavy rain and more than 75,000 lightning strikes, with the wet conditions continuing into Tuesday. Canberra Canberra could see showers or a possible thunderstorm on Wednesday afternoon or early evening. Thursday is looking similarly grey with partially cloudy skies and the chance of a thunderstorm in the late afternoon and evening. Friday's forecast has a higher chance of showers and could also see a thunderstorm develop. Maximum temperatures in the city are expected to stay in the high 20Cs through to the end of the week. The city was lashed by a flurry of severe thunderstorms on Monday, causing heavy rain and more than 75,000 lightning strikes, with the wet conditions continuing into Tuesday (pictured, flooding in Alexandria on Tuesday) Ex-cyclone Lincoln is forecast to redevelop and make landfall on the Pilbara coast - it will be the first cyclone to affect WA's coast this season Melbourne Temperatures over Melbourne are forecast to stay high on Wednesday and Thursday with respective tops of 33C and 36C. However, a cool change is set to move over the city from Thursday with high temperatures dropping to the low 20Cs for the rest of the week. Partially cloudy conditions on Wednesday and Thursday are expected to develop into showers for Friday and Saturday. Adelaide Adelaide is forecast to see a sunny Wednesday with a top of 35C and winds picking up to 25km/h in the early afternoon. Thursday is also looking sunny ahead of a cloudy Friday. Temperatures in the city are forecast to drop from Friday with a maximum of just 22C. The Innamincka causeway in South Australia's northeast is currently impassable due to flooding from Cooper Creek. A moderate flood warning has been issued for the Diamantina River at Birdsville. 'Floodwaters may cut roads and access tracks, and in particular river crossings, impacting travel in the region,' the Bureau said. Darwin Darwin is still in the thick of its wet season with showers forecast through to next week and a possible thunderstorm on Thursday. The Bureau's warning for minor flooding at the Daly River Police Station remains current with rainfall totals up to 35mm recorded across the catchment over 24 hours on Monday and Tuesday. 'The catchments are wet, and many river and creek levels remain elevated,' it said. 'Showers and storms are forecast for the next few days, which may cause some isolated renewed river level rises.' A minor flood warning was also issued for the Lower Daly River. Heavy rainfall fuelled by ex-cyclone Lincoln could cause flooding in the Upper Victoria River, Victoria River below Kalkarindji, Fitzmaurice River, Tanami Desert, Barkly, East Kimberley Rivers and Sturt Creek District. Rain is forecast in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Darwin in the coming days Hobart The outlook for Hobart on Wednesday is mostly sunny with a slight chance of a shower in the afternoon and early evening. Hobart is set to see very windy conditions on Thursday with wind speeds reaching up to 45km/h. Cloudy conditions forecast over the city on Friday will partially clear over the weekend. Several parts of Tasmania have been issued a severe heatwave warning, including the East Coast, South East, Western and North West Coast Districts. Maximum temperatures are forecast to sit in the mid 20Cs to low 30Cs, increasing to the high 20Cs in the northwest and mid 30Cs in the southeast on Thursday. A cool change will move over Tasmania overnight on Thursday with milder temperatures forecast for Friday. Meanwhile, the Bureau advised severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall developed on Wednesday morning. 'A moist unstable atmosphere has triggered thunderstorms this morning in the northeast of the state,' the Bureau said. 'Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. 'Locations which may be affected include St Helens and Scamander.' Police have arrested a suspended Lib Dem councillor on suspicion of 'stirring up racial hatred' after she called Jewish people 'evil', 'vile' and 'horrendous' in a string of anti-Semitic tweets. Pat Marsh, who has served under the North Yorkshire Liberal Democrats for 33 years, is being investigated by the party after dozens of remarks, including one where she said it was 'no wonder people are becoming anti-Jewish', emerged. In one post, the grandmother-of-six said 'the world is silent, the Jews pay for that' while in another she wrote 'I hope you Jews out there feel proud of yourselves. For a so-called Religious Group you are evil'. North Yorkshire Police launched an investigation into the anti-Semitic comments shared on X. The force later arrested Marsh on suspicion of displaying threatening, abusive or insulting written material with intent or likely to stir up racial hatred. The Harrogate councillor, who posted the comments between January 22 and February 18, remains in custody. She was later suspended from the Lib Dems and removed from the council group. Liberal Democrat councillor Pat Marsh has been suspended from the party and arrested by police following a series of anti-Semitic tweets The grandmother-of-six called Jewish people 'evil', 'vile' and 'horrendous' in a string of anti-Semitic tweets The former Harrogate borough mayor was arrested by North Yorkshire police yesterday on suspicion of displaying threatening, abusive or insulting written material with intent or likely to stir up racial hatred The comments, which have now been removed, were made in light of the war in the Middle East between Hamas and Israel following the terrorist organisation's unprovoked attack. In one Tweet Ms Marsh said: 'Money speaks louder than words. I totally agree Israel owns the USA.' In another she wrote: 'the Jews are vile showing they have no care other than for themselves'. In a third the councillor, who was Lib Dem leader in Harrogate and Knaresborough, said: 'This is a Holocaust, don't the Jews remember when it was done to them?' Carl Les, the Conservative leader of North Yorkshire Council, told MailOnline: 'Her numerous tweets were disgraceful. She should resign as her views are completely unacceptable to this council which prides itself on its values. 'Her political colleagues need to explain why she was able to publish such views for so long without challenge.' MailOnline reached out to Ms Marsh for comment. Responding to allegations of anti-Semitism and calls for her to resign the councillor denied to the BBC that she was anti-Semitic. She told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: 'I am against what they are doing to the Gazan people. I'm just trying to be a human being. I'm not anti-Semitic.' Ms Marsh has served as a Liberal Democrat in Harrogate for more than three decades The councillor was still listed as a member of the Lib Dems on Friday night, however The Lib Dems have since suspended the councillor from the local party and national party In another set of Tweets, the councillor said that 'Israel owns the USA' and 'the Jews are vile' She went on to refuse to step down, telling locals she would continue to hold office as an independent. Councillor Marsh said: 'I do not intend to resign I will complete this term of office as an Independent. I am receiving quite a few emails of support from my residents asking me to remain as their independent councillor. 'I have worked for my residents and the wider community for 33 years and will continue to do so until my term of office ends.' Despite her denial, she was removed from the Lib Dems at a local and national level, with her profile on the North Yorkshire Council website now reading that she is an independent. A Lib Dem spokesperson said: 'The minute we were aware, she was reported and suspended from the party and removed from the council group. This matter now rests with the police.' A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: 'We are pleased the the police are investigating these allegations regarding Pat Marsh. 'These alleged posts, which include the claim the "Jews are horrendous" and "evil" as well as several disgusting references to blood libel, serve as a troubling reminder of how deep-rooted prejudiced views like these still are.' People attend a Campaign Against Antisemitism rally outside New Scotland Yard in central London, seeking police action amid a rise in anti-Semitic incidents Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Nicola Colbourne, of Harrogate Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: 'North Yorkshire Police takes hate crime extremely seriously and we are committed to identifying those responsible. 'We are following all available lines of enquiry and would ask anyone who has any information that could support our investigation, other than seeing the tweets, to please come forward.' The incident comes a week after a report published by The Community Security Trust revealed the number of anti-Semitic incidents recording in Britain had jumped 147 per cent in the past year. A huge surge is said to have taken place in the wake of the October 7 attacks and subsequent war in Gaza. The charity recorded 4,103 instances of anti-Semitism in Britain, up from 1,662 in 2022. It included 266 violent assaults on Jews, up 96 per cent year-on-year and the highest figure since the CST started gathering data 40 years ago. For the first time, it recorded at least one anti-Semitic incident for every police force in the UK, with the majority more than 2,400 in London, including some at vigils for Hamas's Israeli hostages. Texan voters overwhelmingly back tough anti-migrant measures on the southern border, from a military deployment to more walls, arrests, barbed wire, and busing arrivals out of the Lone Star state. A University of Texas at Austin survey found voters by wide margins call the migrant surge a 'crisis' or 'serious problem.' They want to make it harder for those fleeing violence in their home countries to seek asylum in the US. The survey came after border guards tallied a record 249,785 arrests along the southern border in December, exposing a growing vulnerability for President Joe Biden as he seeks a second term in the White House. Pollster Joshua Blank of the Texas Politics Project, which was involved in the survey, said immigration had long been a worry for Republicans but had 'crossed some kind of threshold' with many Democrats now expressing alarm. Voters support the anti-immigrant policies touted by GOP hardliners 'After decades of inaction by both parties, the border is forcing itself to the center of the national conversation,' said Blank. 'That is going to be impossible for elected officials to ignore.' Researchers found that voters support many of the anti-immigrant policies touted by such Republican hardliners as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and former President Donald Trump, Biden's expected challenger in November. Abbot has spent $148 million busing migrants out of Texas, mostly to Democrat-run cities. He's also deployed buoys, razor wire and troops to the frontier, putting him at odds with the federal government. If reelected, Trump has vowed to build more wall, make asylum seekers 'remain in Mexico' as they await for court hearings, ban travelers from some countries, and deport millions of people living in the US illegally. The poll shows that all these policies are all winners in conservative-leaning Texas. Nearly half of Texas voters surveyed said the number of migrants seeking to cross the US-Mexico border amounted to a 'crisis,' while another 23 percent said it was a 'very serious problem, but not a crisis.' Texas Gov Greg Abbot has reportedly spent $148 million busing migrants out of the state Texas voters by wide margins call the migrant surge a 'crisis' or 'serious problem' Texans want more troops and guards at the border, like this patrol boat in Eagle Pass Voters by a wide margin supported making it harder for migrants to seek asylum in the US with 59 percent wanting tighter rules, including three quarters of Republicans and nearly half of Democrats. Specific anti-migrant measures were also overwhelmingly popular. Two thirds of respondents said they wanted to see police or the military deployed to guard the border and for construction and repairs to the barrier wall. Voters supported a Texas state law to criminalize the presence of undocumented migrants in the state. They also favored buoys and barbed wire along the frontier, and buses to take migrants out of the state. More than seven million migrants have managed to make their way across the southern border since Biden took the White House in January 2021, according to new US Customs and Border Protection figures. Arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico reached an all-time high in December, authorities said last month, exposing a growing vulnerability for Biden in his campaign for a second term. The Border Patrol tallied 249,785 arrests on the Mexican border in December, up 31 percent from 191,112 in November and up 13 percent from 222,018 in December 2022, the previous all-time high. Immigrants trying to cross the Texan border despite heightened security measures in Eagle Pass Voters want to make it harder for those fleeing violence in their home countries to seek asylum in the US Border Patrol agents guard migrants in Eagle Pass as they wait to be picked up for processing Arrests fell more than half in early January, in line with historic migrant trends. The University of Texas at Austin poll also found that a worrying 60 percent of Texas voters expect there to be violence following the November election, which looks set to be a rerun of the 2020 Biden-Trump contest. 'Dark attitudes from the 2020 election and violent reactions to its outcome among Trump supporters continue to lurk in Texas public opinion,' researchers found. The poll asked registered voters an open-ended question 'How likely do you think it is that there will be political violence in the US in response to the 2024 election results?' rather than the more-targeted queries in other surveys about the prospect of violence by the losing side. In the UT poll, 24 percent said such an outcome was 'very likely,' while 36 percent considered it 'somewhat likely.' By contrast, 21 percent said it was 'not too likely,' and only 5 percent said it was 'not at all likely.' Another 14 percent said they were not sure. The survey comes more than three years after supporters of then-president Trump stormed the US Capitol on the day Congress was set to ratify his defeat in the 2020 election. Some 750 individuals have been convicted of various offenses, and Trump himself faces federal prosecution. Alexei Navalny's death is a test of American will and resolve. So far, we are failing miserably. Look no further than Tucker Carlson. Fresh from his disgraceful 'interview' with Vladimir Putin a visibly cowed Carlson serving as lapdog rather than seasoned journalist the former Fox News darling went on Glenn Beck's show, laughing about Navalny and, yet again, defending the monster that is Putin. 'People who say Putin killed [Navalny] are idiots', Carlson said. So world leaders of democracies, from Germany to Israel, to Great Britain and the United States to name a few are all idiots, per one Tucker Carlson. He also framed justifiable outrage over Navalny's death as purely a concern of the left, then guffawed at the notion that he, as a very important person thousands of miles from home, should have known or cared what happened to Russia's most famous political prisoner. A prisoner who died one week after Carlson sat down in Russia with Putin. Fresh from his disgraceful 'interview' with Vladimir Putin, former Fox News darling Tucker Carlson went on Glenn Beck's show, laughing about Navalny and, yet again, defending the monster that is Putin. You can't claim to be a star commentator, analyst and interviewer the best of the best while also making excuses for not knowing or caring about one of the biggest, most consequential stories developing. But Carlson is trying despite exclusively giving DailyMail.com a contradictory statement the very day Navalny died. 'It's horrifying what happened to Navalny,' he said on Friday. 'The whole thing is barbaric and awful. No decent person would defend it.' Yet in a display of spectacular indecency, Carlson did just that on Beck's show these two former network news stars and self-proclaimed champions of free speech reduced to basement-dwelling conspiracy theorists, defending and minimizing Putin's murderous regime. 'The one thing [the left] is really good at is occupying the moral high ground in an unjustified way', Carlson told Beck. Moral high ground? I'm sorry: Isn't indignation at the death of Navalny apolitical? Whether you're left, right or center, what befell Navalny is not simply an affront to democracy everywhere it's a warning shot. But here were Carlson and Beck laughing it up and making the absurd equivalence of Navalny's martyrdom to wait for it what's happening to Donald Trump. Beck to Carlson: 'While the left has a problem with [the death of] Navalny they don't see the connection on what we're doing here [in the US], what we're doing with Donald Trump'. Trump thinks so too. Aside from praising Putin in the past as 'savvy' and 'genius' and this was in response to his invasion of Ukraine Trump finally addressed Navalny's death at a Fox News town hall Tuesday night. Grotesquely, he made a comparison with the recent $355 million ruling against him in New York. 'It is a form of Navalny,' Trump said. 'It is a form of communism or fascism'. Tell that to Navalny's widow, who still doesn't have his remains if she ever will. President Biden is no better. If ever there was a hinge moment for the GOP and Democrats to dump their respective nominees, this is it. Aside from praising Putin in the past as 'savvy' and 'genius', Trump finally addressed Navalny's death at a Fox News town hall Tuesday night. Grotesquely, he made a comparison with the recent $355 million ruling against him in New York. President Biden is no better. If ever there was a hinge moment for the GOP and Democrats to dump their respective nominees, this is it. Just days after Navalny's death, the arrest and brutal detainment of a 32-year-old dual Russian-American ballerina, announced on Tuesday, is Putin's latest provocation. Ksenia Karelina, whose social media is full of American pride pirouetting on the Brooklyn Bridge, beaming at Rockefeller Center, proudly holding her citizenship papers in front of two American flags was initially taken on charges of swearing outside a movie theatre in the southern city of Yekaterinburg. For this offense, Karelina was blindfolded and filmed being cuffed, marched down flights of stairs into what passes for a Russian court of law. This young woman, married to an American citizen, now faces 20 years to life in jail. For swearing in public. An additional charge of donating $51.80 to a Ukrainian charity has been added. Putin is laughing at us. He is stealing American lives with sadistic ruthlessness, secure in the belief that America will do nothing. After all, when President Biden met with Putin in Geneva nearly three years ago, he warned of 'devastating consequences' should Navalny die in prison. As to those consequences? The world is still waiting. And as for Karelina? The media quickly learned more than the Biden White House. Karelina's friend and boss Isabella Koretz told the Mail that she has been jailed for seven weeks, was arrested as soon as she deplaned on January 2 on a trip to visit her parents and little sister and was then interrogated 'for thirteen hours' before being thrown in a freezing cell with two other women. Koretz said that she and Karelina's supporters have been in contact with the US Embassy, which has been of zero help. 'They said off the books that they are aware of the case, but they told us that they don't have anybody to trade her with', Koretz said. 'We're trying' was the message from the White House on Tuesday morning only after the press pushed on kidnapped Karelina's status. Try harder. Biden has yet to make any public statement. And so it is yet another alarming example of his administration being asleep at the wheel. The inevitable death of Navalny. The snatching of US citizens. Retaliation for these gravest of offenses should have been on Biden's desk ready to go. Just days after Navalny's death, the arrest and brutal detainment of 32-year-old dual Russian-American ballerina Ksenia Karelina, announced on Tuesday, is Putin's latest provocation. Putin is laughing at us. He is stealing American lives with sadistic ruthlessness, secure in the belief that America will do nothing. 'We're trying' was the message from the White House on Tuesday morning - only after the press pushed on kidnapped Karelina's status. Try harder. Biden has yet to make any public statement. Alas, our slumbering president's slow-motion responses echo then-President Obama's warning of a 'red line' should Syria's Bashar al-Assad use chemical weapons on his own people. In 2013, Assad went ahead, and Obama did nothing. One year later, Obama warned Putin 'there will be costs' if he made any move to invade Ukraine. 'You could hear the laughter emanating from the Kremlin', wrote Marc Thiessen, former speechwriter to George W. Bush. '"Costs?" Vladmir Putin must have thought. Just like the "costs" Obama imposed on the Assad regime in Syria?' Now Putin is dealing with Obama's former VP, one whose senility is so pronounced that even prominent Dems and the New York Times are sounding the alarm. It is not speculation, but fact, to say that Putin looks to our President and fears nothing. Returning to that other stain on our national reputation the Kremlin's useful idiot Tucker Carlon Karelina was arrested on the very same day that Putin gave Carlson his interview. And, it's worth adding, in the very same city from which Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, now 32, was taken. Yet in Moscow, Carlson filmed himself in a supermarket and marveled at prices, proclaiming the experience superior to American markets you know, our Whole Foods and spacious suburban grocery stores and our economic safety nets for the poor. It was so awe-inspiring, in fact, that Carlson said it had turned him against US leadership. 'Coming to a Russian grocery store the heart of evil and seeing what things cost and how people live, it will radicalize you against our leaders,' Carlson said. 'That's how I feel, anyway radicalized.' This was after Carlson's mortifying two-hour sit-down with Putin during which Carlson looked totally lost and, frankly, afraid at points. Even Putin was underwhelmed. 'To be honest, I thought that he would behave aggressively and ask so-called 'sharp' questions,' Putin told state-run TV. 'Frankly, I did not get full satisfaction from this interview'. Not since Jimmy Carter has America looked so weak on the world stage, so feeble, so cowed by authoritarian regimes. And not since Joe Kennedy Sr., as ambassador to the UK, expressed sympathies toward Adolf Hitler have we seen such treasonous cozying-up to homicidal strongmen. Not since Jimmy Carter has America looked so weak on the world stage, so feeble, so cowed by authoritarian regimes. And not since Joe Kennedy Sr., as ambassador to the UK, expressed sympathies toward Adolf Hitler have we seen such treasonous cozying-up to homicidal strongmen. Biden is beyond ineffective and our enemies know it. Trump is just as bad. Yet, as we all too painfully know, he seems a lock for the Republican nomination. This despite not just a cognitive decline almost as noteworthy Biden's but more consequentially his dangerous isolationism. Its been said before that America deserves better than this terrible twosome. We deserve better than the insane rantings of Carlson and his ilk, defaming Navalny's ultimate sacrifice while defending his murderer. But Putins actions have made it clear that we now need better before things get irrevocably worse. Navalny himself knew it. In a letter just two months before his death, he decried the sad state of US politics. Please name one current politician you admire, he wrote, warning of a Trump-Biden rematch. A second Trump presidential term, he said, would be 'really scary' and Biden, at such an advanced age, was putting America at risk by running again. 'Trump will become president' if Bidens health declines, he wrote. 'Doesnt this obvious thing concern the Democrats?' Neither Trump nor Biden should be nominated. The only question is: Will either party have the guts to finally admit it? Veterans' Minister Johnny Mercer said 'multiple sources' warned him that unarmed Afghans were shot by the SAS during the war. Giving evidence to the Afghanistan public inquiry, the former army officer said he was aware of a 'pallor and odour' that the elite unit was suspected of carrying out unlawful killings and covering up their crimes. Mr Mercer said he had not wanted to believe the claims at first but the more he looked into them 'the worse' it got. He said he suspected a cover-up after internal investigations found there was no video recordings from a number of operations which he found to be 'implausible'. Giving evidence to the Afghanistan public inquiry, the former army officer said he was aware of a 'pallor and odour' that the elite unit was suspected of carrying out unlawful killings and covering up their crimes. Pictured: Veterans' Minister Johnny Mercer Mr Mercer said he had not wanted to believe the claims at first but the more he looked into them 'the worse' it got (Stock Image) The inquiry is examining whether special forces had a policy of executing males of 'fighting age' who posed no threat in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. Afghan families have accused the unit of conducting a 'campaign of murder' against civilians, amid claims of a cover-up. Speaking yesterday, Mr Mercer said he raised his suspicion's with the then Secretary of State telling him 'something stinks' but said Ben Wallace failed to understand the 'gravity' of the situation. Of the lack of footage recorded via drones, he told the hearing it was a 'significant concern for me...it was implausible that FMV (full motion video) did not exist.' He told the inquiry that he simply 'did not believe' the director of special forces and the chief of general staff when they told him there were no recordings for 10 randomly selected operations. Mr Mercer said he reported his concerns to Ben Wallace after being asked to 'get to the bottom' of the allegations. 'The secretary of state is a busy man. I don't think that he understood the gravity of that,' he said. Mr Mercer said that while he had tried to trust the the system he had 'little faith that the MOD had the ability to hold itself to account'. 'I always knew I would be sat here one day,' he added. The 42-year-old said he was first came across the allegations while training to become a member of the special forces during his third tour of Afghanistan in 2010. He said he first considered the claims to be rumours or gossip but the allegations came to his attention again when he became an MP. Afghan families have accused the unit of conducting a 'campaign of murder' against civilians, amid claims of a cover-up (Stock Image) 'There was a general sort pallor or odour around the switchover organisation from 2009-2010...but no one really said anything to me personally because it wasn't within my remit,' he said. During his time as a member of the Defence Select Committee, he said a friend told him that he had been asked to carry a 'dropped weapon' - an untraceable firearm which could be planted on the body of an unarmed Afghan. But during a tense exchange, Mr Mercer repeatedly refused to hand over the name of officer and 'multiple' others who told him about the unlawful shootings. When accused by counsel Oliver Glasgow of refusing to help the inquiry, Mr Mercer said he was not 'prepared to burn' his contacts and wanted to keep his 'integrity'. The inquiry continues. Horrific images of an exploded butt-lift operation gone wrong were shown to a Los Angeles court on Tuesday as a mother and daughter's murder trial got underway. Libby Adame, 53, and her daughter Alicia Galaz are facing murder charges for allegedly causing the death of their client, Karissa Rajpaul, 26, in October 2019. Prosecutors argued in opening statements on Tuesday that the mother and daughter knowingly injected 'toxic' chemicals into clients during amateurish operations in the Lynwood, California area. They claimed this ultimately led aspiring porn star Rajpaul to suffer a heart attack during her third surgery with the duo in a hotel room. The illegal surgery ring allegedly lured in a number of women into painful procedures, as prosecutors also cited a woman who allegedly died following another of their butt lift operations in 2018, which they were not charged over. Grim images exclusively obtained by DailyMail.com show the autopsy photos of two women who died after having the procedure - including Rajpaul. A woman who died earlier was shown with a huge angry rupture on one of her buttocks. Libby Adame, 53, (pictured) is facing murder charges alongside her daughter after allegedly running an illegal plastic surgery ring that led to the death of a client in October 2019 Alicia Galaz (pictured) seen Tuesday in Los Angeles Superior Court, where prosecutors said in opening statements that she and her mom gave numerous surgeries despite having no medical training The two are charged with the murder of aspiring porn star Karissa Rajpaul, 26, (pictured), who underwent three butt augmentation procedures and died immediately after the third in October of 2019 A grim photo displayed in court Tuesday showed a butt that had burst open after an unsuccessful lifting procedure involving silicone Horrific images of Rajpaul's surgery (center) were shown to the court as the trial began Tuesday. The court was also shown images of a previous client who died in 2018 (left), which they were not charged over, and allegedly 'toxic' material (right) that was used in injections Another exhibit shared in court Tuesday shows what prosecutors say is a butt lift procedure gone wrong The mother and daughter allegedly offered makeshift surgeries alongside two other women, who have not been charged, as they would provide a cut-price option to expensive operations. It was claimed that they would offer in-house buttocks augmentation procedures in hotel suites and in their homes, while recklessly ignoring safety procedures. Images of brown bottles were shown to the court, which Adame and Galaz injected into their clients despite allegedly knowing of the material's toxicity. Both women were also allegedly operating without any proper medical training, and did not hold appropriate certification allowing them to practice plastic surgery. However, their defense attorney J. Michael Flanagan claimed in his opening statement that Adame trained in Mexico and was licensed there, and said the supposedly 'toxic' materials were typical in Mexico. At earlier hearings, Flanagan argued that their murder charges were inappropriate as the count required an 'intent to kill', claiming there was 'certainly no intent to kill.' While a separate procedure was raised on Tuesday, the operation that led to their arrest came on October 15, 2019 - when they gave surgery to Rajpaul for the third time. Rajpaul shared images from one of her earlier surgeries (pictured), where four women, allegedly including Adame and Galaz, and a man stood around her - none of whom were wearing surgical clothing A number of grisly images of Brazilian butt lifts gone-wrong were shown as the trial got underway on Tuesday Prosecutors alleged that the mother and daughter knowingly injected 'toxic' materials (pictured) into their clients when giving them silicone implants Their illegal surgery ring was said to have been carried out in the Lynwood, California area The mother and daughter (pictured together at an earlier hearing in September 2022) are facing felony counts of practicing medicine without certification, alongside their murder charges An aspiring porn star, Rajpaul had moved from South Africa to California for her work, and had previously shared a clip of herself during one of the operations. An image of the earlier procedure was produced in court Tuesday, showing a smiling Rajpaul laying on an operating table while four women, allegedly including Adame and Galaz, and a man stood around her, none of whom were wearing surgical clothing. She suffered from acute cardiopulmonary dysfunction while on the operating table for the third time, and the mother and daughter then allegedly fled the scene while Rajpaul was rushed to hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. When the two were ordered to stand trial in March 2023, Deputy District Attorney Lee Cernok said: 'This is something that's being done by two people without a medical license... To say this is clandestine is an understatement.' Grisly images of another fatal procedure allegedly carried out by the pair was also shown to the court - although they were not charged in that case, it was likely raised as investigators feared there were other victims of the lawless procedures. At the time of their arrest, Detective Bob Dinlocker said chemicals found in the illegal materials they were injecting aren't even intended to be used in humans and can attack your heart, brain or kidneys. 'As we looked into this investigation, we did find that it is occurring a lot,' he said. 'The internet is filled with these horror stories where they're cutting the medical grade silicone with the stuff that you would caulk your windows with. He claimed Adame and Galaz would take supplies to private houses with no regard to typical standards and practices. If anything went wrong, Dinlocker alleged that the suspects would disappear, leaving paramedics to arrive to an unknown medical emergency - in the same manner that prosecutors said they left Rajpaul. Defense Attorney J. Michael Flanagan (pictured) claimed in his opening statement that the materials used by the mother and daughter were typically used in Mexico, where he alleged that Adame had been medically trained Rajpaul shared a video of herself to social media during one of her the operations, which was meant to help her with her work in the adult film industry after moving to California from South Africa Her treatment was performed by Adame and Galaz without any prior medical training or licensing It was claimed that they would lure clients by slashing their prices compared to their competitors. Adame and Galaz charged Rajpaul $3,500 to $4,000 for her operation, whereas a board-certified butt lift would run her anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000, according to NBC4. Brazilian butt lifts are among the most dangerous plastic surgery procedures around and have the highest mortality rates, but continue to grow in popularity. The operations increased in America around 77 percent between 2015 to 2019, according to a survey from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed an 'anomaly occurred' during an exercise that took place on January 30 onboard the nuclear-powered submarine HMS Vanguard. The Trident 2 successfully 'left the submarine', but its first stage boosters did not ignite and the 58-ton missile 'just went plop' into the ocean next to the vessel and sank, an anonymous source told The Sun. Officials said they could not say any more because the incident relates to national security. But they said there remained 'absolute confidence' in Britain's constant at-sea nuclear deterrent and that it continues to be 'secure and effective'. The incident marks the second failed launch in a row after a Trident missile launched from sister sub HMS Vengeance misfired during a test in 2016. Labour has now called for assurances over the effectiveness of Britain's nuclear deterrent after 'concerning' reports about the test failure. Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile launched from HMS Vanguard (pictured) 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. Pictured: A test launch of a Trident nuclear missile (file photo) HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was on-board the 150 metre vessel at the time of the incident. The Trident missile was expected to travel some 3,500 miles before splashing into the Atlantic Ocean, somewhere between West Africa and Brazil. But instead it landed next to the submarine. HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30 with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (pictured) reportedly onboard The Sun reported that a dummy Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in its launch tube, but that its so-called first stage boosters did not ignite. HMS Vanguard was under the surface and hovering at launch depth during the test, but was not hit as the 44ft missile plunged into the water. The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. A probe has been ordered to determine the cause of the failure and a search will be carried out to recover the Trident 2 from the ocean. Details of the misfire are not being made public due to 'national security' matters. However, officials are 'confident' the incident was 'event specific' and that 'there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile'. A written ministerial statement on Britain's nuclear deterrent is expected to be laid in the House of Commons by Mr Shapps, according to Wednesday's order paper. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also present at the time to mark what was the final exercise for Vanguard and its crew after undergoing a refit that took more than seven years, an MoD spokesman said. The missiles are designed to blast to the edge of space and track their position against the stars, before re-entering the atmosphere (hence exoatmospheric), plummeting to earth and raining warheads down on its target. The maximum range of the missile is 12,000km (7,400 miles), which is roughly the distance from London to Indonesia one way, or Hawaii the other. The test was understood to be the final hurdle that the 4billion submarine must clear in order to re-enter service as part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force. Shadow defence secretary John Healey has now called for assurances, saying: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. 'The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' An MoD spokesperson said: 'HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. 'The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK's nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence. 'During the test an anomaly occurred. As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this, however we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile. The UK's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.' HMS Vanguard has undergone a seven-year refit in Plymouth since then, and is now set to fire an unnamed missile, The Sun reports. Pictured: Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits HMS Vengeance, a sister sub to HMS Vanguard Pictured: A trident missile test firing off Cape Canaveral, Florida from HMS Vanguard in October 2005 HMS Vanguard is one of four of the so-called Vanguard-class nuclear submarines that first went on patrol in 1994, with one of the vessels continually at sea. They carry the American-built Trident 2 D5 nuclear missiles, the mainstay of Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent. A Trident missile can be fired at targets up to 4,000 miles away and at its fastest can travel at more than 13,000 miles an hour, according to the Royal Navy. They are 13 metres long, weigh 130,000lb (58,500kg) and are ejected from the submarine by high-pressured gas before they fire as they reach the surface of the water. Each Vanguard-class submarine can hold up to 16 intercontinental ballistic missiles, but will only carry up to eight Trident rockets and up to 40 nuclear warheads. The V-class is due to be replaced by the bigger Dreadnought-class submarines in the 2030s. Between 31billion and 41billion has been set aside for the wider programme of replacing the Vanguard-class submarines, according to figures from the House of Commons Library. HMS Vanguard left Plymouth last year after its 500million overhaul, three years past the initial scheduled end-date. It was after a similar refurbishment that HMS Vengeance had a Trident missile misfire, which veered dangerously off course and self-destructed. Britain's then-Prime Minister was accused of covering up the incident ahead of a vote to decide whether or not to renew Britain's nuclear deterrent. The failed test is latest embarrassment for the Royal Navay, which earlier this month was branded a Royal Navy was branded a laughing stock after its flagship aircraft carrier was pulled out of a NATO exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. HMS Queen Elizabeth was due to set sail from Portsmouth to help lead the western military alliance's biggest exercise since the Cold War. But the 3.5billion, 65,000-ton ship was pulled out at the 11th hour after rust was discovered on the affected part leaving it at risk of it breaking down at sea. MPs, at the time, described the development as 'excruciatingly embarrassing'. The Queen Elizabeth's sister carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, broke down near the Isle of Wight after setting sail for America just 18 months ago also due to a faulty propeller shaft. A team of Royal Navy service personnel in the control room of HMS Vigilant, one of Britain's nuclear subs, in January 2016 Crew from HMS Vengeance look out from the conning tower as they return along the Clyde river to the Faslane naval base near Glasgow, Scotland on December 4, 2006 The naval mishaps come at a time of high global tension, with rising fears that Britain and her allies could be pulled into a conflict in the coming years. 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. Leaked German intelligence documents suggest Berlin expects Russia to launch another wave of attacks to overwhelm Ukraine, and is scrambling to come up with contingency plans in the event Russian troops march westward from Belarus. The Israel-Hamas conflict threatens to spread violence across the Middle East, with Iran's so-called 'Axis of Resistance' - including Lebanon's Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels - increasing their attacks on Israel and commercial shipping routes, prompting the UK and US to launch a series of devastating strikes by air and sea. Further East, Taiwan's election of a new democracy-loving president has angered Beijing even further, with a Chinese invasion of the island nation in the coming years looking ever more likely. And all the while, Kim Jong Un stands by with his fist clenching the keys to North Korea's nuclear arsenal, ready to plunge his foes into radioactive winter. The Biden administration forgave a further $1.2 billion in student debts for more than 150,000 borrowers on Wednesday as part of the White House's aggressive push to help Americans paying back their loans. The move means Biden has cancelled nearly $138 billion for nearly 3.9 million borrowers since he took office, despite the Supreme Court killing his plan to wipe the debts seven months ago. Republicans and critics claim the plan is putting a huge burden on taxpayers, is unfair to the millions of Americans who didn't get a college education and is an overreach of his authority. Wednesdays announcement marks the first group of borrowers to be approved for student loan relief under the Saving on A Valuable Education (SAVE) plans shortened repayment period and comes six months earlier than previously anticipated. The Biden administration launched the SAVE plan after the Supreme Court last year blocked the presidents original $400 billion student loan cancelation plan in June. It is one of several alternative efforts the administration is working on to cancel student loan debt. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona standing alongside President Biden at the White House after the Supreme Court blocked the president's original $400 billion plan to cancel student loan debt Protesters gathered outside the Supreme Court as the court blocked President Biden's previous student loan relief plan last June The SAVE plan is an income driven repayment plan for borrowers who have been making payments for at least ten years and had originally taken out $12,000 or less for college. For every $1,000 borrowed above that, borrowers can receive forgiveness after an additional year of payments. All borrowers under the SAVE plan receive forgiveness after 20 or 25 years depending on whether they have loans for graduate school. President Biden is expected to address the latest student loan debt cancellation during a stop in Los Angeles on Wednesday where he will be joined by some of those benefiting from the plan. Borrowers who have been approved for relief will begin receiving emails from Biden on Wednesday informing them and letting them know they do not need to take any further action. To date, more than 7.5 million borrowers have now enrolled in the SAVE plan, with more than 4.3 million having $0 in monthly payments. The Biden administration has touted it as the most affordable income driven repayment plan in history. This is truly a lifeline for borrowers, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said of the latest round of student loan debt forgiveness. The people getting the debt relief announced today have sacrificed and saved for a decade or more to make their student loan payments. He claimed many SAVE plan recipients come from lower and middle income backgrounds. The Biden administration has been working on several approaches to cancel student loan debt after the Supreme Court blocked the previous plan including launching the SAVE plan and going through the rulemaking process For those who have been approved, borrowers will see it reflected in their accounts as student loan servicers begin to process the debt cancellation in the coming days. Moving forward, the Education Department will continue to identify and cancel student loan debt under the plan on a regular basis. Starting next week, the department will also start emailing borrowers who can become eligible for forgiveness if they switch into the SAVE program. To date, the Biden administration has canceled nearly $138 billion in student loan debt as Americans hold more than $1.7 trillion in student loans. Some of the steps the White House has taken include changes to the public service loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment programs. They have also canceled debt for more than a million borrowers found to have been defrauded by their schools and for more than half a million borrowers with permanent disabilities. But while President Biden has vowed to fight for more student loan debt to be canceled, his efforts have not come without criticism. Some critics have slammed the move to cancel student loan debt arguing it comes at the burden of taxpayers who chose not to take out student loans or pursue expensive college degrees. Labour is facing fresh questions over its plans for Britain's farmers after receiving large donations from a billionaire who wants to 'rewild' the country. The party's environment spokesman Steve Reed is receiving 155,200 this year from Tetra Pak heiress Lisbet Rausing. His register of financial interests states that the cash, paid in monthly instalments, will 'cover staffing and related costs for my frontbench role'. It comes after The Mail on Sunday revealed in December that Ed Miliband is receiving 233,600 this year from Ms Rausing to support his role as Labour's climate change and net zero spokesman. It has raised fears a Labour government may adopt Ms Rausing's plan to 'rewild' Britain turning farmland into forests and bringing back predators such as the lynx. The party's environment spokesman Steve Reed is receiving 155,200 this year from Tetra Pak heiress Lisbet Rausing It has raised fears a Labour government may adopt Ms Rausing's plan to 'rewild' Britain. She is pictured in 2007 Ms Rausing has told of her attempts to restore nature to her Corrour estate near Fort William, including getting rid of sheep to 'rest the land'. In 2022 one of her funds, Arcadia, gave nearly 4million to an organisation called Rewilding Europe, while last year her Ecological Restoration Fund donated 6million to The Wildlife Trusts for rewilding projects. In 2019 a scheme to restore swathes of Mid Wales, funded by 3.4million from a Rausing charity, led to a backlash which forced partner Rewilding Britain to pull out. It comes after the Mail told how the Labour government in Wales is facing protests over a scheme that will force farmers to set aside 20 per cent of their fields for trees and wildlife. Labour is facing fresh questions over its plans for Britain's farmers after receiving large donations from a billionaire who wants to 'rewild' the country Last night a Tory source said: 'The shadow environment secretary claims they would back British farming, but is funded by those who want to force farmers out of business.' Labour sources pointed out that the Rausing family had also made donations to the Conservative Party. A spokesman said Labour 'will boost food production while protecting Britain's precious countryside'. Labour's divisions over the Israel-Gaza conflict could deepen further today as a Government amendment may force MPs to back the SNP if they want to support an immediate ceasefire. Sir Keir Starmer's party had appeared to quell a potential backbench rebellion by laying down an amendment calling for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' ahead of a vote on a similar SNP motion. While the wording of the amendment is slightly different from the SNP's original proposal it does not accuse Israel of 'the collective punishment of the Palestinian people' the move represents a significant shift in Labour's position. But the Government last night tabled their own amendment, which only goes as far as to call for an 'immediate humanitarian pause' followed by a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire'. Sir Keir Starmer's party had appeared to quell a potential backbench rebellion by laying down an amendment calling for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' ahead of a vote on a similar SNP motion While the wording of the amendment is slightly different from the SNP's original proposal it does not accuse Israel of 'the collective punishment of the Palestinian people' the move represents a significant shift in Labour's position. Pictured: David Lammy Commons rules indicate that, if called, the Labour amendment would be voted on first, followed by the SNP's motion, and then finally the Government's amendment. There is no limit to how many amendments can be selected by the Speaker, but constitutional experts last night suggested he may not select Labour's amendment if the Government table a similar one. In November, 56 Labour MPs defied Sir Keir to vote for the SNP's previous call for a ceasefire, including ten frontbenchers who were forced to stand down. Foreign affairs spokesman David Lammy said Labour had shifted its position because the situation in Gaza had 'evolved'. A party spokesman said: 'Our amendment calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, in line with our allies. 'We need the hostages released and returned. We need the fighting to stop now. We need a massive humanitarian aid programme for Gaza. ' And any military action in Rafah cannot go ahead.' Last night the SNP accused Labour of only doing the right thing after months of internal pressure. The party's Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said: 'I welcome this long-overdue U-turn from Sir Keir Starmer who now appears to support the SNP's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. But the Government last night tabled their own amendment, which only goes as far as to call for an 'immediate humanitarian pause' followed by a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire'. Pictured: Gaza City Last night the SNP accused Labour of only doing the right thing after months of internal pressure. Pictured: A photo taken from southern Israel along the border with the Gaza strip 'However, the plain truth is Sir Keir was forced into this position through public pressure and, in particular, by the SNP. 'It's telling that it took the SNP to insert a backbone into the Labour Party and act as Westminster's conscience on this conflict. 'Questions will naturally arise as to why it's taken Sir Keir so long to change his mind, what his long months of prevarication achieved, and whether he will reinstate the MPs he sacked in November for supporting the same position he finally holds too. 'Since Westminster rejected a ceasefire in November, more than 29,000 Palestinian children, women and men have been killed. It's vital MPs don't make the same mistake again.' There was also a mixed response from Labour MPs to the attempt to overwrite the SNP motion, according to party insiders. 'Some MPs are still annoyed about the wording of the amendment, even though it calls for an immediate ceasefire,' one source said. 'But they'll vote for all of it - it's the best we're going to get.' An adviser said: 'Whilst a call for an immediate ceasefire is welcome, the motion is too little, too late. 'Catastrophic humanitarian consequences have already taken place. Keir should've heeded the warnings by human rights organisations such as UNICEF and Action Aid.' Former Labour minister Diane Abbott, who sits as an independent, said the amendment was 'drafted to give cover to Labour MPs but still stay in lockstep with the US.' Mish Rahman, who sits on the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party, said the motion was equivalent to 'playing politics with people's lives'. Former Labour minister Diane Abbott (pictured), who sits as an independent, said the amendment was 'drafted to give cover to Labour MPs but still stay in lockstep with the US' He added: 'The SNP motion is significantly stronger than Labour's mealy-mouthed watered-down version which ignores Israel's collective punishment of Palestinians. Starmer is trying to have his cake and eat it too.' But senior Labour MP Clive Betts, who voted with the SNP in November, said he hoped the party would unite behind the amendment. 'It's really important that we want to work for a two-state solution, which Netanyahu has rejected,' he said. 'That's a really firm, strong statement, which I think the party will unite behind absolutely. I think many, many people will see that as a really strong commitment from Labour.' The Liberal Democrats confirmed they will be voting for the SNP motion but lambasted the party's 'game playing' and lack of reference to a two-state solution. They will also table an amendment. The mother of a man charged with murder over the Kansas City Super Bowl parade shooting set has up a GoFundMe for him - as his sister insists he's not a monster. Teneal Burnside set up the cash appeal for her alleged killer son Lyndell Mays, 23, complete with a photo of him seriously-ill in his hospital bed. He was among those shot at the celebration on February 14 - and was blasted nine times. Prosecutors now say Mays was one of the two men to blame for the horrific bloodbath, although his unnamed sister insists he was just trying to protect her. Pleading for cash, Burnside said Mays was going through a 'tragic time', adding: 'He is in ICU fighting for a recovery from several surgeries, from going to the Chiefs' Super Bowl celebration parade with his older sister. 'Getting shot multiple times at a time that was ment (sic) to bring so much joy to many has bought (sic) pain and sadness to all that was attending.' On Tuesday, Mays was charged with second-degree murder over last week's shooting which killed DJ Lisa Lopez-Galvan. The fundraiser collected $100 before being taken down. Mays remains in a stable condition in hospital and is being held under armed guard, with bail set at $1m. Facebook photos seen by DailyMail.com show him posing a with huge wads of cash. Prosecutors say the other man charged, 18 year-old Dominic Miller, was the one who fired the fatal shot. The family of 23 year-old Lyndell Mays set up this GoFundMe for him before he was charged over the Kansas City Super Bowl parade shooting, which killed one Mays was blasted nine times. Also charged is Dominic Miller, 18, who prosecutors say fired the shot which killed the one person killed - DJ Lisa Lopez Galvan Mays is pictured prior to the shooting. His sister insists he's 'not a monster' and is innocent of the second-degree murder charges Mays pulled out his gun first during the February 14 shooting, prosecutors say, with 25 struck by bullets in the ensuing violence Mays and his fellow murder suspect Dominic Miller are both being treated at this Kansas City hospital Mays has now been charged with murder They've charged Mays over claims he pulled his gun first during an argument which turned deadly and that he too fired shots during the ensuing carnage, which prosecutors say injured 25. Those allegations were refuted by his sister, who told DailyMail.com that Mays was 'innocent' and 'protecting her.' The sibling, who asked to remain anonymous, said: For them to make my brother out to be a monster, it really hurts me inside because he was only trying to protect us. He doesnt deserve to be thrown in it like that. My brother is tall and broad, hes hefty. They were young kids and little guys, trying to prove a point. Lisa Lopez-Galvan was fatally shot on Wednesday while celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory in Kansas City, Missouri One juvenile in a red hooded sweater is seen hastily pulling his backpack off him as if he is reaching for something within it during the fracas Eye witnesses claimed that this man seen holding a bloodied hand over his mouth had been shot in the face during the fight They had been looking at him, and they approached us, they walked closer they had been staring at him. We can see that they have guns in their pockets. We never walked up to them, they walked up to us.' 'One boy I asked how old he was, and he said he was 15. I tried to say were here to celebrate, were not here to fight or start violence. Mays has also been charged with armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon following the shooting on Valentines Day at the Super Bowl LVIII. People flee after shots were fired near the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII victory parade on February 14, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri A woman with a large cut on her face was seen being stretchered away from the scene His sister added: They had been looking at him, and they approached us, they walked closer they had been staring at him. We can see that they have guns in their pockets. We never walked up to them, they walked up to us. One boy I asked how old he was, and he said he was 15. I tried to say were here to celebrate, were not here to fight or start violence. At least 30 people were injured in the shooting, which saw one person killed and 25 suffering gunshot wounds. Police confirmed those injured range in age from eight to 47, half of them under the age of 16. Investigators say that Mays pulled his weapon but did not fire first, with his sister claiming that she tried to get her brother to leave. She added that the ringleader of the group said you better get him to his friends, before she tried to calm the situation. I turned around and I heard the gunshots, and it was in slow motion, she told DailyMail.com. Everything was happening and I was trying to get out of harms way but I do see my brother shooting back. The bullets were flying at him, he wasnt shooting at them he was just shooting. I see him fall to the ground. There was a nurse who helped us, and saved his life. Police have confirmed that Mays gun was not the weapon which killed DJ Lisa Lopez-Galvan, but say he pulled out his firearm first. Dominic Miller, 19, is facing the same charges, with authorities saying that he is believed to have fired the fatal shot. Both men remain in hospital with injuries following the shooting and are being guarded 24/7 by officers, prosecutor Jean Peters Baker confirmed. If found guilty, the two could face life behind bars and are being held on a $1,000,000 bond. Mays family accept that he should face charges relating to possession of a weapon and shooting into a crowd but hit out at prosecutors for charging him with murder. He didnt murder that lady. The bullet of the other guy killed her. Why has he been charged with that?, his sister added. The other charges fine, we understand that. We just want our voices to be heard and his, its not fair to paint him as a monster. What if they come and try to finish the job? My brother is a homeboy, hes not in the streets. He stays in the house with his girlfriend and cuddles. He is not a bad person. But at the same time who is going to be a protector for us. People dont understand what I witnessed, and I saw, however they released it they turned everything around and it makes me so angry. His family have hit out at prosecutors for failing to tell them they were releasing Mays name and charging him with murder, saying its f***ed up, and added they dont care for their safety. They set up a GoFundMe for Mays before he was charged by police and have since removed the fundraiser over fear of retribution. His father added: What was he supposed to do with those guys coming up to him with semi-automatic weapons. It wasnt his gun that killed the woman. We arent safe, the hate theyve been giving the other guy, that was innocent, he was receiving death threats. What do you think we are going to get. Its a nightmare. Our son is not that kind of guy, hes a kindhearted guy who got caught up in a bad situation. He got scared because of those guns. He knew they had guns, what was he supposed to do did they just want him to get shot down dead. He didnt even shoot first. Mays and Miller are not the two juveniles that had been charged with gun-related offenses and resisting arrest last week. Baker added that Jackson County Prosecutors Office was 'not done yet' and that a number of other suspects who were involved in the shooting are being sought. Tributes have poured in for mother-of-two Lisa, who passed away during emergency surgery in hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Her devastated family thanked Jackson County Prosecutors office and Kansas City Police in a new statement on Tuesday following the charges. They added: The effort and dedicated hours spent to expeditiously investigate this senseless act of violence is extremely commendable. It is reassuring for our family and the entire community to know that this joint team effort has resulted in the identification of the suspects involved. Though it does not bring back our beloved Lisa, it is comforting to know that the Jackson County Prosecutors Office and the KCPD made it a top priority to seek justice for Lisa, the other shooting victims, those who had to witness this tragedy unfold and the Kansas City community. Counselling sessions have been set up on Wednesday for those affected by the shooting, with police urging anyone injured in the shooting, including those who were trampled, to contact police to assist with enquiries. A road divided between two councils which was resurfaced with new tarmac on only one side has been slammed by locals as 'bureaucracy gone mad'. The bizarre photo of Poath Road in Melbourne's south-east shows one half of the street freshly resurfaced but the other side worn and untouched. The 2km road cuts through the suburbs of Hughesdale and Murrumbeena but the midway point of the street is the borderline between two separate councils. Hughesdale sits in the City of Monash Council while Murrumbeena is overseen by the City of Glen Eira council. The western side of the road, for which Monash Council is responsible, was repaved two weeks ago. Poath Road in Melbourne (pictured), which is divided between two different council areas, has only been repaved on one side but not the other The eastern side of the road, managed by City of Glen Eira, is yet to be resurfaced despite needing an upgrade, with potholes appearing in parts of the street. The owners of businesses located on the busy thoroughfare have been left in disbelief over the half-done job. George Xylourgidis who runs Ciccio's Pizzeria on Poath Rd said he couldn't understand why both sides of the road were not repaved at the same time. 'We pay our rates as businesses and it's just an easy task that should have been done,' he told A Current Affair. Local resident Danny, who lives in the Glen Eira area, said the job had been made unnecessarily complicated. 'It's bureaucracy gone mad,' he said. 'Why wouldn't they do both sides?' George Xylourgidis (pictured) who runs Ciccio's Pizzeria on Poath Rd said he struggled to understand why both parts of the road were not paved at the same time Another resident, Wayne, slammed both councils and said it was 'ridiculous' they couldn't work together to ensure the whole road was improved at the same time. Rebecca McKenzie, chief executive of Glen Eira Council, told Daily Mail Australia in a statement that the council will repave the eastern side of Poath Rd once other building works are completed. 'Glen Eira Council has a long-term renewal program that prioritises resurfacing works in terms of road condition and road safety,' she said. 'There are a number of significant building developments underway and planned for the Glen Eira side of Poath Road and it makes more sense for us to plan our own resurfacing works once those developments are complete'. 'This reduces the need for unnecessary re-work'. Daily Mail Australia contacted Monash council for comment. A beloved auto shop owner has been gunned down in his Oakland business, as the District Attorney and Mayor face calls to resign over soaring violence. Grandfather Aristeo Zambrano, 68, was nearing retirement when he was shot and killed in his auto shop, Bay City Alternators, in Oakland, on February 3. His death was the tenth homicide in the city this year - with two others reported since then - as District Attorney Pamela Price and Mayor Sheng Thao face pressure to resign over record violence and crime rates. Critics say violent crime has spiraled under their watch, up by almost 20 percent in 2023 compared to 2019, with businesses including In-N-Out shuttering in the city. Since Zambrano's murder, there have been two further homicides in the city, Wai Tsui - who was allegedly beaten to death by a neighbor - and an unidentified man according to Mercury News, taking the total to 12. Zambrano, 68, was a beloved grandfather and pillar of the community, he was just about to retire before his murder Zambrano was shot dead at his repair shop Bay City Alternators, he started the shop in the 1990s Zambrano had been told multiple times by his family that they were concerned for his safety in the crime-ridden neighborhood. The 68-year-old was a former farmworker, known for his work alongside Cesar Chavez in the United Farm Workers movement, turned auto shop owner. He moved to Oakland from Michoacan, Mexico in the 1970s and became a pillar of the community, running his repair shop for three decades. His daughter, Maria Ayala told SFist: 'Its not fair that he worked so hard all his life, he never hurt anyone.' He is survived by three daughters and six grandchildren. Author Miriam Pawel wrote on X: 'Rest in power Aristeo Zambrano, one of the heroes of the farmworker movement in the late 1970s, when worker leaders were at their strongest. Oaklands tenth homicide of the year.' The motives behind the shooting remain unclear, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Critics of District Attorney Price and Mayor Tao have launched recall campaigns for them both, pointing to the record homicide rates in their calls for them to resign. Mayor Sheng Thao is facing calls to resign over the high crime rates in the city Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Y. Price is facing calls to resign over the high crime rates in the county Price has been accused of allowing violent crime to run rampant in Alameda County by pushing liberal policies such as lower jail terms in a bid to boost 'equity.' Preliminary reports from Oakland indicate that in 2023, violent crime rose 21 percent, robbery increased 38 percent, and vehicle theft increased 45 percent. Videos of violent carjackings have become commonplace. Last summer horrific video emerged of a woman being pistol-whipped and dragged across gravel by two thugs as part of a car jacking. The attack on International Boulevard left the unidentified woman with severe injuries, police investigating in the East Bay city said at the time. Last month Oakland's only In-N-Out Burger restaurant announced it is set to close after 18 years, despite still turning a healthy profit, as customers and staff are 'unsafe' due to soaring crime rates, the business said. It is the only In-N-Out burger to close in the chain's 72 year history, with its departure heaping even more pressure on Oakland officials including Mayor Sheng Thao, a progressive who previously voted to defund the police. Crime has continued to spiral on Price's watch, up by almost 20 percent in 2023 compared to 2019 Price was elected DA in 2022 on a progressive platform pledging to seek shorter prison sentences, more lenient criminal charges, and a refusal to charge juveniles as adults. A leaked memo at the start of 2023 detailed how she was seeking to fulfil her campaign promise. The directive said that probation should be the 'presumptive offer' during plea negotiations, and that low-end prison terms should be offered in cases that aren't eligible for probation although nearly every crime in the California penal code is eligible for probation. Price herself was subjected to a robbery from her car back in October when thieves made off with her laptop. Earlier this month, 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. The state of California has been experiencing one of its wettest Februarys on record as flood, mudslide, and new storm warnings continue to be issued for this week. The Golden State continues to be under the threat of flooding as an atmospheric river moving through the region is pounding the coast with landslides and floods. Significant damage is expected this week as heavy rains are forecast to douse much of northern California today and southern California into Wednesday. Predictions of another storm occurring on either Saturday night, Sunday or Monday have also been made. The Golden State continues to be under the threat of flooding as an atmospheric river moving through the region pounds the coast with landslides and floods Predictions of another storm occurring on either Saturday night or likely Sunday have also been made Los Angeles County could receive three to five inches of rain in the mountains and foothills by the end of tomorrow's storm, the National Weather Service said. As of now, downtown Los Angeles has already received 12 inches of downpour this month itself, which is three inches more than the area's average for a full year. The new storm is expected to bring in another half an inch of rain to the area. Ventura County is forecasted to receive two to four inches of rain while Santa Barbara County could receive one to two inches in the mountains and foothills by Wednesday. Wind gusts are predicted to reach 30 to 50 mph in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The NWS has also issued flood watches for the Bay Area, Sacramento, Fresno and San Diego for this week. Officials have also said that flooding and landslides remain a concern and debris flows are possible over areas recently burned by wildfires. Significant damage is expected this week as heavy rains are forecast to douse much of northern California today and southern California into Wednesday A distressed Californian recorded a TikTok of the downpour in Los Angeles The new storm is expected to bring in another half an inch of rain to Los Angeles The NWS has also issued flood watches for the Bay Area, Sacramento, Fresno and San Diego for this week San Marcos Pass received over 10 inches of rainfall, Porter Ranch, Bel Air, Leo Carrillo and Beverly Hills all received over two inches of rainfall on Monday. Pictured: flooding in Montecito Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard explained: 'This is one of the wetter Februarys on record. It's been an incredibly wet month. 'In normal winters where we haven't had as much rain, this type of rainfall doesn't cause that much [of an] issue because the ground can still absorb water. 'But once the ground becomes completely saturated, flooding can occur really easily and the earth can start to move, either with mud or rockslides.' Today's storm has already knocked down trees, wiped away cars and put hundreds of homes at risk of destruction in Rancho Palos Verdes as the rain and mudslides cracked the road open as the hillside is shifting at a rapid rate. Mayor John Cruikshank has asked Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency specifically for Rancho Palos Verdes. 'You can definitely see the cracks getting deeper very quickly,' resident Stephanie Streisand told KTLA about the crumbling roads in the area. 'I've been traveling over this road for over 55 years, since I was a young child, and I've never seen it like this. In particular in the last few months.' @calistreetshots The rain is back in Los Angeles. I feel like its been raining every other couple of days out here in southern california lately, whats going on with that? It definitely makes you appreciate the sunshine that much more. Tony toni tone needs to have that it never rains in southern california somg remade - to it always rains oit here now. Hope you enjoy some slow rainy visuals around downtown los angeles. Its for sure a different type of vibe when it rains out here. I just know the grass will be glowing and the city will have a cleanse type feeling again in the next few days after the rain. Itll be raining for the next few days, make sure to find your umbrella, rain boots and be safe out there. I Think I Like When It Rains - WILLIS Significant damage is still possible as heavy rains are forecast to douse the Golden State into Wednesday. Pictured: flood water rushes in Montecitio Work crews clean up a beach front road after ocean waves caused by a winter storm pushed up beach rocks in Oceanside, California, on Tuesday In Santa Barbara, evacuation warnings remain in place for properties along waterways associated with the Alisal burn area, properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek and properties in the vicinity of Mission Creek Waves break against the pilings of the Huntington Beach Pier in Huntington Beach as another storm brought rough surf, rain, winds and cool temperatures to Southern California Visitors pose for a photo south of the Huntington Beach Pier as a storm brought strong winds, rain and rough surf to the Beach In Santa Barbara, evacuation warnings remain in place for properties along waterways associated with the Alisal burn area, properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek and properties in the vicinity of Mission Creek, according to the county. There were flooded roads, mudslides, trees falling on cars and the Santa Barbara airport shut down for the day on Monday. San Marcos Pass received over 10 inches of rainfall, Porter Ranch, Bel Air, Leo Carrillo and Beverly Hills all received over two inches of rainfall. Gusty winds knocked out power for more than 11,000 customers, according to PowerOutage.us. A rockslide was reported on U.S. 101 near Gaviota, in Santa Barbara County and a mudslide was reported near Santa Monica, blocking some lanes on the Pacific Coast Highway, according to The Weather Channel. There have been over 130 reports of flash flooding, landslides or rockslides across California since February 17. This is the moment police hunting for chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi pulled a body from the Thames, as police say they are 'confident' the corpse is him. The Afghan-born asylum seeker was wanted for attacking his former lover and her two young children in Clapham, south London, where he doused them in alkaline. Officers on a police boat can be seen at the back of the craft working with lifeboat crews as they remove him from the water. And witnesses to the dramatic scene described the panic in their faces as they heard a body had been found in the water. Billy Kilter was on an Uber Boat near Tower Bridge when officers boarded it for random checks at around 4pm on Monday. 'They were just walking about looking at people, making sure everyone was okay,' he told Sky News. JANUARY 31: That last CCTV image of Clapham acid attack suspect Abdul Ezedi (pictured) who is believed to have been found dead in the River Thames Officers on a police boat can be seen at the back of the craft working with lifeboat crews as they remove him from the water Witnesses to the dramatic scene described the panic in their faces as they heard a body had been found in the water Ezedi (circled) was last pictured near Chelsea Bridge in a black jacket following the attack 'Then the radio went for the boat, saying 'We can't stop there is someone in the water' 'The police radios started going, police boats, the search and rescue pulled up next to us and the police hopped on [another boat]. [There was] panic on their faces.' Convicted sex offender Ezedi carried out his horrific onslaught on January 31 before fleeing, having appeared to have also burnt his own face in the assault. He was last seen alive on CCTV later that evening leaning over London's Chelsea Bridge. Yesterday, a passing boat reported seeing a body in the water near Tower Pier - four miles from Ezedi's last known position. Police have since recovered the remains, which they believe to be the 35-year-old's. Investigators said the identification was based on 'distinctive clothing' he was wearing at the time of the attack and the 'property found on his body'. His former girlfriend, a mother-of-two who was doused with a corrosive chemical thought to be oven cleaner in a harrowing attack on her and her young children, is now no longer under sedation in hospital. But friends say she has been left blinded. 'We know mum's lost her sight in one eye, and we're praying that it returns fully in the other,' they said in a statement today, adding she was still in 'critical care' and 'desperate to be reunited with her girls'. FEBRUARY 1: The Metropolitan Police released this photo of Ezedi as they continued their hunt Ezedi's body was found near Tower Pier (pictured) on the River Thames on Thursday afternoon Abdul Ezedi's last known steps Wednesday, January 31: 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. 21:10 He gets off at Victoria Tube Station and heads towards the district line. 21:16 Ezedi boards an eastbound District Line train. 21:33 Ezedi exits Tower Hill Tube Station. 21:47 - He is seen on Allhallows Lane, EC3. He travels through a passage to Cousin Lane. Then he turns right, walking towards Upper Thames Street. 21:51 - He then turns left onto Upper Thames Street (image released today) 21:54 He travels along Upper Thames Street 21:59 Ezedi passes the City of London School on Pauls Walk EC4, heading towards Blackfriars Bridge. He passes the riverboat pier. 22:04 He then passes the Unilever building and heads towards Victoria Embankment. 22:06 Ezedi passes Carmelite House, junction with Carmelite Street towards Temple. 22:28 - He passes Westminster Pier, goes up steps and continues towards Westminster. 22:33 - Ezedi seen walking south on Westminster bridge 22:36 He walks across Westminster Bridge, down steps on the London Eye side towards Lambeth 22:42 Ezedi seen walking west on south Thames Path towards Lambeth Bridge 22:55 He travels along the Albert Embankment approaching Vauxhall Bridge 23:00 Ezedi crosses Vauxhall Bridge towards stairs (Houses of Parliament side of the river) 23:03 - He crosses Vauxhall Bridge Road, into Grosvenor Road. 23:10 Ezedi walks west bound past the Shell petrol station 23:19 - He passes the Thames Water Building, Grosvenor Road, heading towards Chelsea Bridge 23:25 He crosses over Chelsea Bridge and enters Battersea Park. 23:27 - He crosses back over Chelsea Bridge towards the north side. Monday, February 19: 16:00 - Sailors spot a body near Tower Pier in east London. Tuesday, February 20: 11:35 - The Met Police confirms they have recovered the body which they believe to be that of Ezedi Advertisement The body was recovered by the Met's Marine Policing Unit and has been viewed by detectives working on the investigation. Commander Jon Savell said: '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. 'As you may expect after a considerable period of time in the strong current of the Thames, formal identification is not possible visually, nor from fingerprints. We will work with the coroner on other ways to complete formal identification, such as DNA testing and dental records. That may take some time. 'Our enquiries continue into the attack. I am pleased to say the condition of the 31-year-old woman has improved. She remains in hospital but she is in a stable condition and no longer sedated. We have still not been able to speak to her but hope to as soon as she is well enough. 'Again, I thank all those hundreds of members of the public who called us with information during the hunt for Ezedi. The public support for our investigation was overwhelming and every piece of information provided was followed up.' Ezedi had not been seen since he allegedly poured the chemical on the woman and her two children, aged three and eight. The mother-of-two was left in a critical condition sedated in hospital with police revealing she is still 'too poorly to speak' due to her 'significant injuries'. Her daughters, aged eight and three, were discharged from hospital after doctors confirmed their injuries were less severe than first thought. In a fresh statement today, friends of the woman said she was 'determined to get out of hospital as quickly as possible'. More than 44,000 has been raised so far for the woman and her two children in the wake of the horror attack. 'Physically and mentally, there is a very, very long road ahead for her and the girls,' friends added in their statement. 'Like so many of us, the family were really struggling to make ends meet before the attack, so we just want their recovery to not be compounded by financial fears. 'We know times are tough and the level of support so far means the world. Every donation helps, and sends a powerful message against this evil attack. 'We kindly ask anyone reading this to consider donating even the cost of a coffee to show Mum and the girls that the wider community has their back and they can feel safe again.' Following the attack, which took place on a leafy street in south west London, Ezedi fled the scene, with his movements on that night being captured on CCTV across the capital. The chemical attacker was seen in Caledonian Road, King's Cross Station, Victoria Station and Tower Hill tube station in the four hour period after the attack on Lesser Avenue. The Met said he then walked more than four miles 'with purpose' from the Tower Hill area to Chelsea Bridge. He entered Battersea Park for a brief period before crossing back over the bridge. Ezedi was last seen alive at 11.27pm on January 31 at Chelsea Bridge. The suspect was never seen leaving the bridge area. In a briefing at Scotland Yard earlier this month, Commander 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.' When asked if police were willing to say that Ezedi was dead, Detective Superintendent Rick Sewart said: 'I'm prepared to say that he's gone into the water and if he's gone into the water then that's the most probable outcome.' The woman had been in a relationship with Ezedi, with the breakdown of the relationship a possible motive for the attack. A police boat is seen on the Thames on February 10 as officers search for the body of Ezedi CCTV footage shows Abdul Ezedi shortly after the attack on January 31. In the images, he appears to have a large wound to his face, believed to have been a chemical burn Other footage shows Ezedi (circled) walking south on Westminster bridge on January 31 The nation-wide hunt for Ezedi saw two homes raided in Newcastle in the early hours. The focus in the hunt for Ezedi switched to the River Thames on Friday, February 9, when detectives revealed that they believed he went into the water some four hours after the alkaline attack nine days earlier. Officers from the Marine Policing Unit carried out several low tide searches in the area surrounding Chelsea Bridge in the following days. They had continued routine searches as part of their daily work before the body was recovered yesterday. Ezedi came to the UK hidden in a lorry in 2016, and was turned down twice for asylum before successfully appealing against the Home Office rejection by claiming he had converted to Christianity. He was convicted of two sexual offences in 2018 but was allowed to stay in the UK because his crimes were not serious enough to meet the threshold for deportation. A tribunal judge is understood to have ruled in favour of his asylum claim in 2020 after a retired Baptist church minister confirmed he had converted to Christianity, reportedly describing Ezedi as 'wholly committed' to his new religion. During the manhunt, relatives of the pizza shop worker had appealed for him to turn himself in. One family member described Ezedi as a 'quiet' and 'caring' person when they were growing up in Afghanistan. He believes the attack is out of character. Ezedi was convicted of a sexual assault/exposure offence at Newcastle Crown Court in 2018 and handed a suspended sentence and an unpaid work order, which was completed two years later. He was also put on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years. He was later granted asylum after a priest confirmed he had converted to Christianity - despite friends revealing he was a 'good Muslim'. Referencing the sex offence, the close relative said he didn't 'believe he would do that kind of thing'. It comes after Ezedi's brother Sebaghallah Ezedi, 22, also urged him to give himself up to police. Police revealed the motive behind the 'brutal' attack appears to be the breakdown of a relationship. He is seen with injuries here in a Tesco supermarket after the attack Forensic police at the scene on January 31 night near Clapham following the attack Around 500 people across the county called police with information about Ezedi and his possible whereabouts since the incident happened. 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.' Police said Ezedi left Newcastle in the early hours of January 31 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. Ezedi was caught on CCTV at Tesco Express at 8.42pm before he caught a Victoria Line train south at King's Cross at 9pm. 16 minutes later he left Victoria on an eastbound District Line train. At 9.33pm, Ezedi is seen leaving Tower Hill station and an hour later CCTV has him heading south on Westminster Bridge. At 11pm, he was spotted heading north across Vauxhall Bridge. And at 11.25, police released CCTV of Ezedi entering Battersea Park before crossing Chelsea Bridge. He was not seen leaving after this. Police say three members of the public who came to the aid of the family during the attack, two aged in their 30s and one in her 50s, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns. Commander Savell thanked all the public for their support in the investigation. As a little girl, Tanya Plibersek had just two 'special' dresses: one was a hand-me-down from her cousin, who she idolised, and the other was made by her aunt. Now, she's one of the most fashion-forward women in Canberra, hard to miss in the halls of Parliament House in her colourful, two-piece pantsuits. Speaking at eBay's Circular Fashion Fund showcase on Wednesday morning, the Minister for Environment confessed she's far from perfect when it comes to her fashion choices but said all consumers, along with businesses and governments, have a role to play in promoting sustainable fashion. 'The scenario, you've all seen it - and occasionally done it - you're scrolling social media, you see an outfit worn by an influencer. You buy it with the click of a button,' she said. 'It becomes one of 56 items of clothing that the average Australian buys in a year. You wear it maybe once or twice before it loses its shape, or you decide it doesn't look good on you.' Speaking at eBay's Circular Fashion Fund showcase on Wednesday, Tanya Plibersek confessed she's far from perfect when it comes to her fashion choices but said all consumers, along with businesses and governments, have a role to play in promoting sustainable fashion choices Tanya Plibersek's passion for fashion began as a little girl (pictured in her favourite dress) Ms Plibersek told the crowd most Aussies try to do the right thing from this point onward. They bag it up with all the other unwanted clothes and take it to a charity bin. 'But, like most Australian charities at the moment, it is overwhelmed by the volume of low quality fast fashion they end up with. There's not a market for it, and it ends up in landfill.' Ms Plibersek shared her own personal relationship with fashion growing up. In stark contrast to many of the children of today, she had two good dresses which 'made her feel like a princess'. One was a hand-me-down and the other hand-made. 'Those really special things that you love and treasure,' she said. 'Back then, clothing was high quality and the expectation was that it would last for years or decades.' In fact, Ms Plibersek said that even today, in 2024, she still owns, wears and looks after clothes she purchased in the 1980s, 40 years ago. She noted bike shorts and slip dresses have circled back to being in vogue, and that the biggest difference between the fashion now and in the '80s is 'the extraordinary acceleration in production and consumption'. Now, she's one of the most fashion-forward women in Canberra, hard to miss in the halls of Parliament House in her colourful, two-piece pantsuits 'Improved affordability of clothing is a good thing' Ms Plibersek has no issue with the downward pressure placed on clothing prices - which is, in part, in response to the wide range of options now available on the market. 'Parents shouldn't have to choose between paying the electricity bill and buying a new pair of school shoes,' she said. The problem, she argued, is with the promotion of 'throwaway culture'. It's the marketing strategies which tell us we must buy a new outfit for every event, that we must have the latest trend to be fashionable, which is the root cause of the problems facing the industry. 'We're not talking about someone who buys a cheap t-shirt that their kids wear to school again and again. That is fine,' she said. 'There is certainly, unequivocally a place for that. 'I'm talking about a system where people are buying something, wearing it once, and it ends up in landfill. There is too much of that.' Poisoning the world with good intentions Australian charities are forking out millions of dollars each year, sorting through and dealing with donations they receive which aren't fit for purpose. Ms Plibersek said consumers often have the best of intentions when they take their used clothes to donation stores, but the reality is, many can't keep up with the sheer amount of clothing they're receiving. 'This is money those charities should be spending on helping needy Australians,' she said. 'Not dealing with our guilt of parting with our one-wear item.' To put it into perspective, Ms Plibersek told the crowd products made from synthetic fibres will take 500 years to decompose. 'Those yoga pants made from carbon fuels will outlive you by many centuries. 'Our beautiful, natural world has become a dumping ground for clothes we can't even call pre-loved anymore, because the relationship with that item was so brief, you can hardly call it love.' Ms Plibersek said consumers often have the best of intentions when they take their used clothes to donation stores, but the reality is, many can't keep up with the sheer amount of clothing they're receiving and they end up in landfill Ms Plibersek told the crowd products made from synthetic fibres will take 500 years to decompose eBay's solution and the way forward On Wednesday, eBay dished out $200,000 in prize money to three businesses who are committed to promoting and improving circularity in the fashion industry. The first prize recipient, Dempstah, recycles Australian textile waste into newly spun yarn, giving it a new lease on life. This yarn can then be turned into knitwear, homewares and furniture. Founder Guy said he hopes to establish a mill in Tasmania to encourage local production and create more local textile - and environmentally friendly - jobs. Ms Plibersek said: 'If we can extend the lifecycle of clothing, if we can repair it, on-sell it or repurpose it, that is great. The first prize recipient, Dempstah, recycles Australian textile waste into newly spun yarn, giving it a new lease on life Founder Guy said he hopes to establish a mill in Tasmania to encourage local production and create more local textile - and environmentally friendly - jobs 'Can we swap clothes? Can we rent them? Can we embrace thrifting, as my kids have.' The Environment Minister said increasing the lifespan of a shirt by a factor of three - from an average of 20 wears to 60 - reduces the water and carbon footprint of that piece by 66 per cent. 'As someone who is still wearing things that I bought in the 1980s, that makes me very happy,' she said. 'The fashion industry that makes the profits has to be responsible for doing something better for the environment... We should not have to rely on consumer preferences alone to change the way we consume fashion.' An Australian state's euthanasia scheme has come under scrutiny after a widower struggling with grief took a substance that was meant for his wife. A Queensland man in his 80s, known only as ABC,took a lethal substance meant for wife who had terminal cancer in May 2023. An inquest which began in Brisbane on Tuesday heard ABC was responsible for the safekeeping of the lethal medication. His wife chose to self-administer the drugs under Queensland's voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws as she was in her final stage of the disease. The inquest heard the woman's husband of nearly 60 years was the nominated contact person - a role which requires someone to return any unused VAD substances within 14 days of a patient choosing to euthanise. A Queensland man his 80s took his wife's euthanasia substance after she died in hospital. An inquest into the man's death said 'improvements' to the scheme could be made If a patient changes their mind to self-administer the lethal drugs, the same 14-day rule applies. The inquest was told a specialist VAD team from Brisbane drove to a hospital in the regional town where the couple lived to deliver the lethal substance, The Courier Mail reported. The couple's daughter said during the handover, the VAD team were 'very concise' and checked with her mother if she wanted to continue. It was then the team also explained to the husband his responsibilities as contact person. The couple's daughter said her father took the substance home - where her mother wanted to die - and locked it up. 'He took the fact it was a controlled substance quite seriously in regards to safekeeping it. (He was) by the book, always has been,' she said. However, ABC's wife had to be admitted to hospital due to her cancer symptoms progressing - which also meant she was physically unable to take anything orally. To make matters worse, the cancer patient contracted Covid-19 in hospital. ABC's wife took back her decision to self-administer the VAD substance. The 14-day period began once she changed her mind and the husband was told to take the VAD substance to a pharmacy. However, ABC also contracted Covid and was frustrated he could not visit his wife. Sadly, his wife died in hospital which caused ABC to struggle with both his grief and Covid. It was during this time the VAD team called multiple times and told ABC how important it was for him to return the substance. The daughter told the inquest that she and her father had decided to take the substance to a pharmacy when he went to collect a script. The day before their trip was scheduled, the daughter left her dad to do some errands. When she returned, she found him dead in a chair with the VAD substance box next to him. 'I thought he was asleep in the chair. I put my arms around him. He was cold', she said. The woman told the court that even though she was '200 per cent behind' the VAD scheme, she believed some details in the information booklet could be highlighted. 'I think because of the heightened emotion you tend to miss things,' she said. She said an example is she didn't think to ask whether she could be the person to return the deadly substance. Coroner David OConnell, who is investigating the mans death, told the couples daughter improvements could be made. Queensland's voluntary assisted dying scheme began in January 2023 and accepted 245 patients within its first six months. Just over half of those people had elected to have a life-ending substance administered by a medical practitioner and the balance chose self-administration. The inquest heard that, since ABC's death, processes and monitoring had changed within the VAD scheme. The inquest has raised the issue of who in the community should have access to end-of-life-drugs and how closely it should be A witness who works in the VAD scheme said broadening the amount of people who can return the lethal substance was a possibility. The inquest also heard that patients can hold onto the VAD substance for up to a year. 'I think the tension is the Act was designed so that someone could have that substance to take at the timing and manner of their choosing,' she said. 'And I think that inherently has a risk, no one would argue that, those substances are in the community.' The witness said patients often have other strong medication in their homes that are not monitored and this case is the only one where someone else had taken the lethal substance that was meant for a terminally ill person. The inquest also heard that background and mental health checks were not carried out on the contact people in the scheme. In fact, they don't even have to show a driver's licence. 'Do you accept that there is greater security to get into a nightclub in Brisbane than to become a contact person?' Mr OConnell asked the witness. 'Yes,' she said. However the witness said the scheme should be careful who it should preclude from becoming a contact person. Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyondblue 1300 224 636 Carers Australia 1800 242 636 Grief line 1300 845 745 Donald Trump again compared his $355 million New York fraud fine to the death of Alexei Navalny as Letitia James threatened to seize all of his buildings if he didn't pay up. The former president said that the lawsuits against him are a 'form' of politically-motivated attacks invoking the recent death of Russian President Vladimir Putin's political prisoner and rival Alexei Navalny. 'It is a form of Navalny. It is a form of communism or fascism,' Trump told Fox News host Laura Ingraham during a town hall in Greenville, South Carolina on Tuesday evening. Trump didn't say whether he is getting ready to put up the bond while he appeals the decision, but did say despite the large funds in his bank account, Judge Arthur Engoron and Democrats 'can't take it.' Meanwhile, James said she is prepared to seize Trump's assets if he can't find the funds to cover the fine. She made the threat despite Trump having 25 days to pay around the $35million bond to hold over the case. 'If he does not have funds to pay off the judgment, then we will seek judgment enforcement mechanisms in court, and we will ask the judge to seize his assets,' James told ABC News. She mentioned his 40 Wall Street skyscraper as one of the potential targets. His New York real estate is worth $690 million, according to Forbes, and could have to liquidate some of the properties to pay the fine. Donald Trump said during a Fox News town hall in South Carolina on Tuesday that lawsuits against him are like politically-motivated murder. 'It is a form of Navalny. It is a form of communism or fascism' Trump compared needing to pay upwards of $450 million and facing multiple lawsuits that he claims are politically motivated to reports Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the murder of political rival Alexei Navalny (pictured) Trump called Engoron, who made the costly ruling last week, a 'sick judge' during his town hall in the next and final early primary contest state of South Carolina. 'We have a lot of cash, but that doesn't mean he can take it,' Trump lamented. 'I mean, you know what he did, I think he looked at my cash and said, 'Well, we'll take all of his cash.' 'This is all coming out of the White House,' he insisted. Trump is involved in several lawsuits, which includes 91 felony charges against the ex-president. He says they are all efforts of election interference against him. Trump compared the latest ruling to reports that Putin ordered the murder of political rival Navalny after his death last week. New York Attorney General Letitia James says she is prepares to seize Trump's assets if he doesn't fork over the $355M ordered in the civil case last week Besides the $354.9 million Judge Engoron ordered Trump to fork over, he also is levied with nearly $100 million in prejudgment interest and will build more interest daily until he puts up the cash. The case involved Trump, his family and his associates allegedly inflating the value of his properties for financial gain for his real estate empire the Trump Organization. 'Everything that's coming out this is all election interference,' Trump said. 'They're trying to damage me so they can win another election.' Trump is the far frontrunner in the Republican presidential primary, where his only remaining contender is former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, who made a speech earlier on Tuesday insisting she is not dropping out of the race any time soon. President Joe Biden and Trump are so far set for a rematch in 2024. A Taekwando master lived a normal suburban life with his wife and two children before he allegedly killed a mother, her husband and a young child. Kwang Kyung Yoo, 49 - who owns Lion's Taekwondo in North Parramatta and is also known as 'Master Lion' - is under arrest in connection with the alleged triple murder of Min Cho, 41, her husband Steven, 39, and a 7-year-old boy. Police will allege he strangled the woman and boy to death at his Taekwando studio on Monday night before driving her white BMW X5 to her home in Baulkham Hills. Yoo is accused of fatally stabbing her husband during an 'altercation' at the home. He then allegedly drove to Sydney's Westmead Hospital covered in blood, where he was treated for knife wounds to his chest, arms and stomach. He underwent surgery before being arrested by police late last night, with charges expected to be laid later today. Detectives were seen scouring the neighbourhood around Yoo's home in North Kellyville, in Sydney's north-west, as the investigation into the tragedy continued on Wednesday. Kwang Kyung Yoo, 49, lived a normal suburban life with his wife and two children before he allegedly killed a mother, her husband and a young child The taekwando master is under arrest in connection with the alleged triple murder of Min Cho, 41, her husband Steven, 39, (pictured) and a 7-year-old boy. Police will allege Yoo fatally assaulted the woman and boy at his taekwando studio (pictured) on Monday night A shocked neighbour said Yoo, his wife and their children - a girl, 12, and boy, 8 - seemed like a 'normal family'. The last time he saw Yoo was on Saturday when the Taekwando master was outside mowing his lawn. Kwang Kyung Yoo (pictured) 'They are very quiet, but very nice,' he said. 'He seemed quiet and usually kept to himself. 'But overall, there was no fighting, no noise, nothing.' The neighbour said Yoo had recently claimed to have begun working as a professor at Macquarie University around seven months ago, while his wife is a stay-at-home mum and the kids go to private school. But in a bizarre twist, the university has denied Yoo's claims, which he had also repeated on his Facebook profile. The university - based in Sydney's north - say it has 'no record of him' working for them. Yoo continued to run his popular Taekwando studio at night, but the neighbour revealed that Yoo had admitted that the business was struggling financially. 'The business was shutting down,' he said. 'He told me that it was difficult. During Covid, it was really bad, but afterwards it was struggling a little bit. After allegedly killing Min Cho and the child, Yoo is said to have driven her white BMW X5 to her home in Baulkham Hills (pictured) where he is accused of killing her husband, Steven Cho One neighbour revealed Yoo had admitted his martial arts business (pictured) was struggling financially and he was talking about closing it down A neighbour said the last time he saw Yoo was when the taekwondo expert was mowing his lawn as normal on Saturday at the family home in North Kellyville (pictured) 'He has been talking about closing it for the past year.' Police spent Tuesday morning knocking on the doors of houses in the area, asking for any CCTV footage that might be available. The neighbour said yesterday was one of the very few times he has ever seen visitors at Yoo's home. 'There were some people out the front talking to police. I think they were their relatives,' he said. 'The police were here most of the day, from mid-morning until 3pm.' A woman has been charged with not having smoke alarms installed after a devastating blaze killed five young children and their father on Russell Island last year. Wayne Godinet, 34, died along with his four-year-old twins Kyza and Koa, his three-year-old son Nicky, and his stepsons Zack, 11, and Harry, 10, in an inferno at their home on Russell Island, south east of Brisbane, in August last year. The childrens mother, Samantha Stephenson, 28, and her sister were able to escape the fire. The family's landlord, 61-year-old Donna Rose Beadel, has been issued a notice to appear at Cleveland Magistrates Court on March 26 over the property's alleged lack of compliant smoke alarms. Father Wayne Godinet, 34, and his five sons (pictured) perished after they were trapped in a deadly fire on Queensland's Russell Island The blaze was so intense firefighters were only able to pick through the remains of the house in the late afternoon on Sunday after battling it from 6.18am Ms Beadel, who lives in Tweed Heads, was not present when the fire occurred and has not been charged with any offence in relation to the deaths of Mr Godinet and his children. There is no suggestion she engaged in other wrongdoing. 'Detectives continue to investigate the fire and a final report is expected to be submitted to the Coroner in the near future,' a spokesperson for Queensland Police said. The blaze was so intense it burned the property to the ground and destroyed two other adjoining properties. Mr Godinet returned to the burning building in a bid to rescue the children but perished inside when the second storey collapsed. Roses and gerberas were left against a charred piece of masonry at the site of the tragedy Neighbours recalled seeing Ms Stephenson running outside screaming 'my children, my children' as her partner raced back into the inferno to rescue the five boys sleeping upstairs. A heartbroken Ms Stephenson previously urged every parent to 'check your smoke alarms and hold your babies'. One of her sisters later attended the site to lay three roses and three gerberas against a charred piece of masonry in memory of the victims. Dozens of Mr Godinet's family members travelled from New Zealand to pay tribute to the victims with a powerful Haka. The Labour leader lived above a brothel when he was younger and often 'shared a joke' with the women downstairs, his biography claims. Sir Keir Starmer described the flat in north London as 'grotty' and the father of one of his friends is said to have been concerned about being seen entering a brothel. Keir Starmer: The Biography details the more colourful parts of the leader's life, which may alter his critics' perception of him being 'boring'. The property, located in Archway, was inhabited by the future politician and his friends in the 1980s after he graduated from Leeds University and Oxford University as he moved to the capital to pursue law. The biography claims the group of friends didn't pay rent for two years when the women downstairs disappeared - leaving only a grand piano and circular bed behind, Eventually, the flat was declared unfit for human habitation and Sir Keir and his friends moved out. The Labour leader lived above a brothel when he was younger and often 'shared a joke' with the women downstairs, his biography claims. Pictured: Keir Starmer's graduation picture Keir Starmer sitting on a beer crate while camping in 1984 aged 22 Sir Keir Starmer described the flat in north London as 'grotty' and the father of one of his friends is said to have been concerned about being seen entering a brothel According to The Telegraph, Sir Keir is quoted in the biography as saying: 'The flat was really grotty but it was cheap. I was with mates, we were young and having a good time.' But below their flat was a sauna and massage parlour - owned by a landlord who was jailed after he was found guilty of living off the earnings of prostitution, the book claims. The Labour leader is quoted as saying: 'We didn't have the kind of neighbours who would complain too much about the floors shaking or people arriving, or leaving late at night.' He said he got to know the women working downstairs and knew their names. In the book he says: 'They had tough lives and deserved to be treated with respect.' The future lawyer went on to live in other rented accommodation in Brondesbury Park and Islington, before settling down in a 1.75 million home in Camden, Kentish Town. Sir Keir said his father, Rod (right), never revealed how proud he was of him. Pictured: Starmer with wife Victoria, mother Jo and father Rod Keir Starmer: The Biography details the more colourful parts of the leader's life, which may alter his critics' perception of him being 'boring' The father of one of his friends is also said to have been concerned about being photographed entering the building when visiting his son due to the brothel. Other revelations in the biography include the admission of his strained relationship he had with his late father. The leader of the opposition said his father, Rod, never revealed how proud he was of him. Starmer only found out about how he really felt after he passed away in 2018. When he was clearing out his family home, the 61-year-old found a scrapbook hidden in the back of a cupboard that was full of newspaper cuttings. 'Dad was proud of me and loved me, even if he couldn't tell me to my face. 'And it's now too late for me to tell him to his face that I was proud of him, that I loved him too.' The Labour leader said his father was heartbroken by the death of his mother, Jo, in 2015, three years before he passed away. Jo had Still's disease, a type of arthritis that can cause the immune system to attack the body. The new biography, written by journalist Tom Baldwin, also recalled the moment that Starmer regretted not hugging Rod when he was on his deathbed. 'We hadn't hugged each other for years. Not since I was a kid,' he said, choosing to walk away instead. 'I knew he was dying and I didn't turn around to go back and tell him what I thought. And I should have done.' These were all different points of Starmer's career, from his time as Director of Public Prosecutions to when he became an MP. Rod had written dates underneath each article. 'I didn't really know what to think about it, why he had taken all that trouble, then hidden it,' he said. Soldiers who are transitioning from men to women can live in female-only barracks as soon as their transition process begins, official Government guidance states. The 'determining issue' for allocating a transgender soldier's living accommodations is their 'affirmed gender', according to defence document JSP 889, which provides guidance to the recruitment and management of trans personnel in the military. The guidance, which was reviewed by MailOnline, states a trans person should be 'provided with accommodation that is appropriate to their affirmed gender' from the date of transition. Military members should have access to 'toilet and changing room facilities appropriate to their affirmed gender' as soon as their transition begins, according to the guidance. It also states that 'under no circumstances' should a transgender person be expected to use the facilities of their 'assigned gender' after transitioning. But some experts, including Tory MP Sarah Atherton - who oversaw a report examining sexual assault and harassment in the military - have voiced concerns that the policy could put female military members at risk. Soldiers who are transitioning from men to women can live in female-only barracks as soon as their transition process begins, official Government guidance states. Pictured: File photo of Deepcut barracks in Surrey Tory MP Sarah Atherton (pictured) - who oversaw a report examining sexual assault and harassment in the military - criticised the policy for being 'unclear' and argued the guidance 'allows predatory men to misuse the policy to continue this abhorrent behaviour' Ms Atherton, who believes the Ministry of Defence 'haven't thought this through properly', criticised the policy for being 'unclear'. She argued the guidance 'allows predatory men to misuse the policy to continue this abhorrent behaviour', The Telegraph reported. 'Having done extensive work around women in the Armed Forces, I am fully aware of the extent of sexual abuse that has gone on and continues to go on,' she told the newspaper. She added that women need to have 'secure accommodation' and 'safe spaces' because of the 'poor sexual behaviour and misuse of power in the military'. 'Women need to have secure accommodation where they feel safe.' Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is understood to be examining the policy as part of his review into the military's diversity and inclusion policies. His wide-range review was launched after concerns were raised that the military was becoming too 'woke'. Defences sources told the Telegraph that the 'majority' of single-sex living accommodations have 'lockable' rooms with en-suites. They added it is 'rare' for people of the opposite sex to share washing facilities. It is also understood that military members who feel 'uncomfortable' can raise their 'concerns', which will then be 'considered by the chain of command'. MailOnline has approached the Ministry of Defence for comment. Former President Donald Trump has confirmed that six Republicans are on his shortlist for a potential running mate and vice president at a town hall on Monday. In his first hint at who could be his Vice President if he wins the election in November, Trump's list included two former opponents and an ex-Democrat. Trump, 77, confirmed Florida Governor and one-time foil Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina are all among the ex-rivals being considered. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, Florida Republican Byron Donalds, and former Democrat Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard are on his shortlist. Former President Donald Trump confirmed six Republicans are on his shortlist for a potential running mate and vice president at a town hall on Monday, including two former opponents and an ex-Democrat A DailyMail.com poll in New Hampshire found Ramasmway is the top choice to be running mate, followed by Scott in second and Tucker Carlson and Ben Carson in joint third. 'All of those people are good. They're all solid,' Trump told Laura Ingraham Monday night. Trump said, however, that deciding on a running mate might not be the biggest decision of his campaign. 'The one thing that always surprises me is that the VP choice always has no impact,' he said. Trump noted that 2008 Republican VP nominee Sarah Palin did have an enormous impact, but faced attacks unlike anyone ever had before. He then attempted to make his case for what qualities he felt his running mate should bring to the ticket. 'It's a very important position. You would like to get somebody who could help you from the voters' standpoint,' Trump said - but noted he wanted someone with 'common sense.' DeSantis became a target of Trump's notorious mockery during the primary, though the Florida governor dropped out and endorsed him. Gabbard, who served several terms in the House of Representatives and ran for president in 2020 as a Democrat, has since left the party and become a regular in conservative media. Scott and Ramaswamy both dropped out of the race after the early contests to endorse Trump. Trump confirmed Florida Governor and one-time foil Ron DeSantis is among his ex-opponents in the running for the VP nomination Former Democrat Congresswoman from Hawaii Tulsi Gabbard is also on the former president's VP list Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy was praising Trump even when they ran against one another in the primaries Noem and Donalds have both been staunch allies of the president and were early endorsers in 2024. In January, DailyMail.com broke down what Trump is looking for in a candidate and who are the top contenders. The key choice facing Trump will be whether he wants to elevate total loyalty, prowess on the stump, or an ability to appeal to independents and moderates in a closely-divided election. His prior vice president, Mike Pence, isn't even in the mix, after Trump blamed him for lacking 'courage' on January 6 and his own presidential campaign flamed out. Trump goosed the gossip when he said at a Fox News town hall in Iowa this month that 'I know who it's going to be,' although comments from aides at the time suggested Trump may have jumped the gun a bit. Now, just a few weeks later, informal advisors are passing on names. 'I think it would be good for a vice presidential pick to check several boxes: Who helps solidify the base? Who can go into suburban areas and expand support by speaking to these moms in kind compassionate ways?' Hogan Gidley, a former Trump White House press aide who still consults with the former president told DailyMail.com. 'Who can take the America first policies that so many people a vast major of people in his country support and not just implement, but continue to grow those out over not the next four years but the next 12? 'As an added benefit, it would be nice if that person could talk to the press, understand Trump world, understood the president himself, was a fighter, was unflappable.' South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was also listed as a potential candidate Sen. Tim Scott could bring stature and diversity to a Trump ticket, but critics accused him of fawning over the candidate when Trump told him he must 'hate' Nikki Haley Rep. Byron Donalds has been a staunch ally of the president and an early endorser in 2024 Advisors are already suggesting names to former President Donald Trump on potential running mates, as he contends with Nikki Haley's continued challenge following his victories in Iowa and New Hampshire. Trump must decide whether to prioritize MAGA loyalty or look to expand his appeal on the margins while leading Joe Biden in polls. Other names DailyMail.com suggested could be candidates: Representative Elise Stefanik of New York, still-running ex-UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, Kari Lake, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Carson and Carlson. Sen. J.D. Vance, whose 'Hillbilly Eligy' helped explain the Trump phenomenon, and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo were also named. The mother of the 15-year-old New York boy who died while subway surfing last year has now launched a lawsuit against the city's subway network, TikTok and Meta. Norma Nazario's son Zackery Nazario died while subway surfing on a Brooklyn-bound J train over the Williamsburg Bridge on February 20, 2023. A low beam struck the teenager in the head, causing him to fall between the subway cars and before he could get away, a train ran over him. A year after his death, Norma has filed a lawsuit against the MTA and the social media platforms, claiming that the apps 'goaded' her child into the deadly stunt by recommending similar videos. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages from TikTok, Meta and the MTA. Norma Nazario's son Zackery Nazario died while subway surfing on a Brooklyn-bound J train over the Williamsburg Bridge on February 20, 2023 A year after his death, Norma has filed a lawsuit against the MTA and the social media platforms claiming that the apps 'goaded' her child into the deadly stunt by recommending similar videos Furthermore, Norma is suing the public transportation company for not locking the subway doors According to Norma, she had found multiple videos of people subway surfing after she started checking his social media accounts. The distressed mother also claims that Zackery had received an advert for a ski mask, which is commonly used by surfers to hide their identities. Apart from damages, the lawsuit also demands tech companies to 'change their dangerous recommendations technology' that provokes others to join in on such life-threatening trends. Furthermore, Norma is suing the public transportation company for not locking the subway doors. She told the New York Post: 'They could give me a billion dollars, and I'm not going to stop. I'm not going to stop until the MTA and these social media companies start taking responsibility and stop killing our children.' But MTA President Richard Daley has hit back and told Eyewitness News: 'We've said it over and over - do not climb on top of trains because that won't end well, and we implore parents to tell their children, and friends to warn friends - avoid tragedy by riding inside.' According to Norma, she had found multiple videos of people subway surfing after she started checking his social media accounts But MTA President Richard Daley has hit back and said: 'We've said it over and over - do not climb on top of trains because that won't end well, and we implore parents to tell their children, and friends to warn friends - avoid tragedy by riding inside' Matthew Bergman, Norma's lawyer said that the youngster was addicted to the apps by 'design' and was 'directed' towards videos that encourages subway surfing Social media platforms have also long claimed that legal protection from content posted by users through the 1996 law known as Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Section 230 provides federal immunity to online computer services with respect to third-party content generated by its users. But Matthew Bergman, Norma's lawyer told ABC that the youngster was addicted to the apps by 'design' and was 'directed' towards videos that encourages subway surfing. 'Zackery was addicted to social media by design and affirmatively directed to challenge videos encouraging subway surfing. 'Zackery has some responsibility too. No one is saying that there was not shared fault here, but what we are saying is that this didn't have to happen.' Talking about the MTA, the lawyer said: 'Given the profusion of subway surfing that was going on, they did not take efforts to prevent it.' A video of some people attempting the 'Subway Surfers Challenge' shows them imitating the main character of the namesake game and jumping over moving subway trains. A video of some people attempting the 'Subway Surfers Challenge' shows them imitating the main character of the namesake game and jumping over moving subway trains Last month, Alam Reyes, 14, fell off a Coney Island bound F Train in Brooklyn while subway surfing and died at the scene. His heartbroken half-brother later revealed the teenager followed multiple accounts that posted pictures and videos of subway surfing around the city and that he hoped they had checked his social media before the incident. 'Now that you go to his social media, you see who he's following, who's his friends,' Diego Tinoco, told the Daily News. 'You see the videos people post of subway surfing, you realize now it's too late.' 'I spoke to him the day he died,' Tinoco, 32, revealed, 'I just said good morning because I was going to work.' 'He was a nice kid, he had a lot of friends, he just hung out in the wrong circle.' Alam Reyes, 14, fell off a Coney Island bound F Train in Brooklyn on Friday Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, the boy was pronounced dead at the scene Tinoco said his brother ditched class at Landmark High School in Chelsea and went subway surfing with a friend. The friend continued on to the next stop after Reyes fell at the elevated Avenue N station in Midwood above McDonald Avenue. People on McDonald Avenue saw blood in the street and then saw a sneaker fall from the tracks overhead, Ernesto Galindo, who works at Vinnie's Pizza told the channel. Last year four other teens including Jay Thirunarayanapuram, 15, died while surfing a subway. City officials have been battling the rise of the dangerous trend and last year, the MTA and the mayor's office launched a campaign aimed at youths. In 2022 the MTA reported 928 instances of people riding outside, on top of, or in between trains - compared to just 206 in 2021. The NYPD has also begun deploying drones to catch subway surfers in real time. A shocking new probe into the Delphi murders has raised doubts over the suspect charged with the brutal double-slaying - and claims Libby German, 14, was 'almost decapitated' when she was killed alongside her friend Abby Williams, 13. Few details of the girls' cause of death have been released in the six years since their murders in February 2017, until a new CrimeNation documentary this week included claims Libby was almost beheaded 'out of rage.' The admission was seen in texts from someone on the scene that later leaked online, also claiming 'whoever did it targeted Libby for sure', and that the 14-year-old 'fought like hell.' In October 2022, cops made their first major breakthrough with the arrest of Richard Allen, 50. However, the new documentary instead pointed to a new killer, the man who owned the property where the girls were discovered, Ron Logan, in chilling new claims from his ex-girlfriend. A new documentary has claimed Libby German (left) was 'almost decapitated' when she was killed while on a walk alongside her friend Abby Williams (right) Ron Logan, who owned the property where the teen girls were found, is claimed to be the true killer in the new documentary by his ex-girlfriend. He died from Covid-19 in January 2022 Richard Allen, 50, was charged with the double murder in October 2023. He has pleaded not guilty Logan, who died in January 2022 from Covid-19, was one of the first suspects investigators looked into, and he made several media appearances in the aftermath of the murders as they gained national attention. After key pieces of evidence emerged - a picture of the killer and a recording of his voice taken by Libby on her phone - Logan appeared on Inside Edition to claim he didn't recognize the person or the voice from anyone he'd seen on his property. But his ex-girlfriend Connie Dillman has claimed she is in no doubt it was Logan in the clips, and said she insisted to authorities her ex is the killer. 'That's your voice,' she said of Logan. 'I heard the voice of 'down the hill' thousands of times. It's Ron Logan.' Dillman said she began her six-year relationship with Logan after meeting him in a bar in Delphi, Indiana, and they quickly bonded over their love of horses and the outdoors. But she said their relationship went downhill before long, as he began controlling her everyday life and treating her like a 'sex tool.' 'When I didn't want to have sex, he forced it on me,' she said. 'I was helpless.' She claimed one time that she tried to leave, he struck her across the head with a wrench, leaving her with seven stitches. Shortly after ending their relationship, the murders of the two teen girls rocked the Delphi community and made national headlines - leading Dillman to be sure her former lover was the killer when she saw him on TV. The last video taken on Libby's cellphone showed a man in a blue Carhartt jacket and jeans approaching the two teens Logan was one of the first suspects to land on cops' radar following the murders, and his ex-girlfriend said he was physically and sexually violent with her Logan's ex-girlfriend Connie Dillman (pictured) said after seeing her former lover on TV following the murders, she was left with no doubt that he was the true killer Shocking text messages leaked after the murders, claiming Libby (left) was 'targeted' in the slaying After the murders captured national attention, law enforcement came under fire for not releasing details of the crime, a factor they cited in wanting to keep control over the investigation and not release information only the killer would have known. Amid the frustration for information, lurid text messages leaked online from someone at the crime scene, which the documentary claimed were shared by Abby's uncle, David Erskin. The text read: 'Me and my other sisters boyfriend are the ones who found the girls Tuesday. Coroner's report stated everything was over by 3:30. No rape. Abby was dressed. Libby was nude. 'Libby's top half was covered with leafs (sic) and sticks, almost like they were trying to cover her. 'The only DNA would be from Libby's fingernails. She fought like hell. Whoever did it targeted Libby for sure and knew what they were doing with Abby. It was personal with Libby.' An expert in the case added that there was 'talk of Libby almost being decapitated, which looks like it was done out of rage.' Scrutiny has fallen on the investigation and arrest of Allen following his arrest, particularly due to the evidence produced in Allen's probable cause affidavit. In November 2022, the affidavit cited just a single piece of evidence linking Allen to the murders, an unspent shell casing from the scene. The .40 round was found unfired within two feet of the girls, and analysis of the round found it was a match to Allen's firearm. It is unclear how the round would have been cycled into the gun, never fired, then ended up between the two bodies. Two weeks later, DailyMail.com exclusively revealed that, shortly after Allen's arrest, one of his neighbors saw police digging in his yard to exhume his family's dead cat. The feline's hair also proved to be a match to samples found on one of the victims. The bombshell report also revealed investigators were looking into whether the girls were victims of a botched kidnapping plot by a local pedophile ring. Sources close to the investigation claimed that Allen was acting with at least two other men and was involved in a child sex ring, and Carroll County Prosecutor Nicholas McLeland openly stated that he believes 'Allen is not the only actor involved in this.' A burial plot has been advertised for more than a house deposit at one of Australia's most iconic cemeteries. Secondhand burial plots are now being sold for $100,000 at Waverley Cemetery, in Sydney's ritzy eastern suburbs. A double burial plot at the cemetery was listed on Facebook Marketplace with the whopping six figure price tag. The advertisement list the condition of the plot as 'used like new' and noted it is available 'in perpetuity'. At a cemetery in Waverley secondhand burial plots are now being sold for $100,000. It also stated it had been used once, in 1911, and has transfer fees involved. As a sweetener, the burial plot was advertised as having 'ocean views' in a 'quiet neighbourhood'. Another plot at the same cemetery was listed for $55,000, discounted from $70,000. Ben Kelly, from the Australasian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association, told A Current Affair cost-of-living pressures were a factor even in the graveyard industry. He said the cost of land and maintaining cemeteries have all gone up. 'Waverley Cemetery is a beautiful, historic cemetery with extremely limited capacity left,' Mr Kelly said. 'As the population grows these cemeteries are filling up and they are creating new ones but they are further and further away. 'So when the spots do come available they are obviously of a premium.' Waverley Cemetery, which first opened in Bronte in 1877, is full of impressive Victorian and Edwardian monuments and memorials. Waverley Cemetery, which first opened in Bronte in 1877, is full of impressive Victorian and Edwardian monuments and memorials. Competition to get into the cemetery is so fierce that new plots with perpetual rights are no longer available. Residents who wish to bury their loved ones at the site must purchase renewable internment rights from Waverley Council for a period of 25 years, and pay ongoing fees. One passer-by said they thought the price of the plot was 'ridiculous'. A second said that paying six figures for a grave 'makes no sense'. 'Regardless of where it is, that sounds disgraceful,' they said. Upset over clip of Brittany Higgins interview on the Logies EXCLUSIVE Emails reveal Brittany Higgins' former boss threatened to sue Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson for a staggering six-figure sum over an excerpt of a Project interview that was played at the Logies. Daily Mail Australia has obtained a series of emails sent to Channel 10's lawyers that show Fiona Brown - Ms Higgins' and Bruce Lehrmann's old boss at Parliament House - threatening to sue the network and Wilkinson. Ms Brown took exception to a Logies segment showcasing Wilkinson's award-winning The Project story, originally broadcast in February 2021, revealing Ms Higgins' allegations that she was allegedly raped by Mr Lehrmann two years prior. Mr Lehrmann has always denied the allegations. Her solicitor fired off a legal letter, claiming Ms Brown could hope to get $443,000 in damages from Network Ten if the case went to trial - but that she would settle for a payment of $150,000. It was Wilkinson's second legal headache from the June 2022 awards night - the first being that her silver Logies victory speech for her interview with Ms Higgins delayed Mr Lehrmann's criminal trial. An email from Wilkinson to Ten's senior litigator Tasha Smithies shows The Project host blasting Ms Brown's complaint as 'utterly ridiculous'. Fiona Brown is pictured outside court in December, during Bruce Lehrmann's defamation trial against Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson Lisa Wilkinson is pictured during her Logies acceptance speech in 2022 EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Never-before-seen emails reveal how Lisa Wilkinson argued about one particular word in her Logies speech Lisa Wilkinson outside the Federal Court last week during her case against Network Ten Advertisement 'Thanks for letting me know Tasha,' she wrote on January 17, 2023. 'The whole premise of her complaint is utterly ridiculous ... and the Logies stuff is just palpably untrue.' Ms Brown complained that neither Wilkinson or Ten asked the Logies not to broadcast the segment - a claim that was dismissed by Ten's lawyers. In her response to Wilkinson, Ms Smithies wrote: 'Hopefully this is the last we hear from Fiona Brown.' Ms Brown was the chief-of-staff for former defence industry minister Linda Reynolds in 2019 when Ms Higgins alleges she was raped. During her The Project interview, Ms Higgins claimed Ms Brown didn't support her when she first disclosed her alleged rape, and made her choose between pursuing her complaint with police and keeping her job. Ms Brown has long-maintained those claims were untrue and that she only ever tried to support Ms Higgins after she first disclosed the alleged rape to her, even offering to take her to Australian Federal Police to make a formal complaint. At the Logies - which were broadcast on Channel Nine, rather than Ten - a clip of the program played before the winner was announced. Lisa Wilkinson is pictured interviewing Brittany Higgins for The Project episode in February 2021 Brittany Higgins is pictured with her fiance David Sharaz in France, where they now live That clip included various statements Ms Higgins' made against Ms Brown, which weren't made clear in the correspondence obtained. A week after the Logies, Ms Brown's solicitor Walter MacCallum sent a concerns notice - the first step in defamation proceedings - to Thomson Geer, the law firm used by Network Ten. In another letter on December 22, 2022, Mr MacCallum said Ms Brown would settle for $150,000 in damages and an apology to be broadcast on The Project, and signed apologies from Wilkinson and Network Ten respectively. 'Network Ten and Ms Wilkinson will together pay to our client the total sum of $150,000 in lieu of damages,' the letter read. 'Network Ten and Ms Wilkinson will pay our clients legal costs incurred before this offer was made and our clients legal costs of any further negotiations or settling of the terms of any required documentation, on a solicitor/client basis.' In response, the network tried to argue that Ms Brown had left it too late to lodge defamation proceedings because there is a one-year time limit, and the concerns notice was sent 16 months after The Project interview went to air. The limitation period can be extended if the plaintiff - Ms Brown, in this case - successfully argues it was unreasonable to launch proceedings any earlier, which Mr MacCallum said he would be willing to do. Bruce Lehrmann is pictured outside the Federal Court in Sydney last week Ten also argued was not involved in the broadcast of that particular clip at the award ceremony on Channel Nine. However, Mr MacCallum pointed out that the concerns notice after the Logies was the second the network received regarding the way Ms Brown was portrayed in the original Project interview in February 2021. He said the network knew about Ms Brown's concerns with the original Project broadcast and asked why it didn't anticipate that parts of the interview could be re-broadcast at the Logies. Mr MacCallum also asked why the network didn't ask for the clip to be taken off Nine's website after the interview was re-broadcast, and took aim at the acceptance speech Wilkinson made after the clip had been shown. During the acceptance speech, Wilkinson appeared to side with Ms Higgins and refer to her as a proven rape victim rather than an alleged rape victim. At the time, Mr Lehrmann's criminal trial was just days away. Network Ten's senior litigator Tasha Smithies is pictured outside the Federal Court last week The ACT Chief Justice moved the hearing as a direct result of the speech over fears it may have biased a jury against Mr Lehrmann, destroying his chance at a fair trial. In his letter to Thomson Geer, Mr MacCallum wrote: 'Neither Ms Wilkinsons speech, the interview footage nor the Logies presentation is, or was, an expression of opinion based on true facts, or otherwise.' He said the combination of the interview excerpt and Wilkinson's speech were problematic because, together, they implied Ms Higgins' allegations against Mr Lehrmann, and her claims against Ms Brown, were correct. Ten rejected Ms Brown's claim. 'Our clients maintain that any defamation action by your client would be hopeless and be bound to fail,' lawyer Marlia Saunders said. 'While our clients wish your client no ill, they will vigorously defend any proceedings brought against them.' It was unclear what, if anything, happened next. A dozen fire trucks and more than 40 firefighters were called to North Parramatta in western Sydney at 2am on Wednesday after a fire started on the ground floor of a three-storey complex. The fire threatened to spread through the ceiling space between levels and the intense smoke prevented occupants in higher storeys escaping, forcing them to seek shelter on balconies. Fire and Rescue NSW crews used ladders to rescue the six residents and another four people escaped via a different stairwell. Six people had to be rescued from their balconies due to the intense smoke and flames. Another four people escaped via a stairwell Forty firefighters were onsite to fight the blaze and are still looking into the cause of the fire, which put four people in hospital with smoke inhalation The fire was extinguished in about an hour. The building suffered extensive smoke damage, requiring multiple residents to be given temporary accommodation until repairs are done. Four residents were taken to hospital with smoke inhalation. Investigators found the fire started in a garage that had been converted into a unit but have yet to determine the cause. A seven-year-old girl has died after the sand hole she was digging collapsed on top of her, with the moment frantic passersby tried to rescue her caught on camera. Her nine-year-old brother was also trapped in the hole on the beach at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, when it collapsed but he survived. Witnesses said the children were digging the hole and playing inside of it when the ground gave way. Cell phone footage show the moment a crowd of desperate beachgoers started trying to dig them out before firefighters arrived. Other children stood and watched as the dreadful scene unfolded before their eyes. They were both rushed to hospital but the girl was declared dead on arrival. Their identities have not yet been released. It is also unclear who was looking after them at the time of the tragedy. Spokesperson for Pompano Beach Fire, Sandra King, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that the adults who were with the children were too distraught to provide additional details at the scene. She said the hole was about five to six feet deep when it collapsed leaving the boy buried up to his chest with the girl completely buried beneath him. Frantic passersby got on their knees and dug with their hands in a desperate attempt to reach the girl Moments later, a group of adults was seen rushing one of the two children off the beach for medical attention, while other youngsters watched the horror unfold Discarded buckets and toys could be seen in the aftermath of the desperate rescue attempt A crowd gathered to help try to dig the children out until the authorities arrived King told the Florida Sun Sentinel that she didn't know how long they were buried but that when the girl was dug up, she didn't have a pulse. She said: 'We were conducting life-saving techniques to try to bring her pulse back, and it never did recover and she was pronounced dead at the hospital.' 'The boy was three or four feet down but at that point, his head was above the sand. I guess his sister was beside him and she was down further. They tried to dig her out, the more the sand collapsed,' witness David Davies told WSVN. 'They tried putting boards to try and keep the sand from falling in She was down for quite awhile.' The girl was rushed to Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale where tragically she was declared dead. The boy's parents put him in a sheriff's car and he was also taken to the hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. It wasn't immediately clear if any adults were helping the children dig the hole or were playing in it with them. King said she does not know if the family is local or were visiting. She said the Sheriff's Office is investigating. Broward Sheriff's deputies and paramedics rushed to the beach at 3.16pm on Tuesday to the 4400 block of El Mar Drive. In the aftermath of the collapse a crowd of people could be seen standing around the massive pit. Hauntingly, two buckets could be seen nearby. It's unclear if these belonged to the children caught up in the collapse. Bystanders recorded the moments after the collapse showing people on their knees digging with their hands through the sand. Some tried to hold the walls back to stop more sand from collapsing in on the children. Aerial shots showed how wide the hole was after it collapsed on Tuesday afternoon Authorities cordoned off the hole while the children were rushed to hospital Others used shovels and beach toys to scrape sand away from the hole. 'I mean you saw grown men digging with shovels and buckets and nobody could find her 'I guess when the wall caved in she may have been laying flat and so maybe it just kind of pancaked her. The dad was able to pull his son out but the daughter was still underneath the sand,' a witness told Local10 News. When authorities arrived they cordoned off the beach leaving the giant hole still half filled with discarded children's buckets and spades lying by. Scanner traffic saw a dispatcher describe a scene involving '20 people digging to find the child' to responding officers. The dispatcher calls the child 'about 8-years-old.' Although sand hole deaths are very rare, they are not unheard of and there have been studies and warnings published about them. Last week at Jersey Shore Beach, a toddler became trapped after a hole he was playing in collapsed and buried him. After an initial panic, the boys father was able to save him. Last May, a 17-year-old boy died in the small resort town of Frisco, on the Outer Banks in Virginia after he became trapped in a hole that was dug in a back-dune area behind the beachs primary dune along the Atlantic Ocean. The teenager was buried under several feet of sand after an adjacent dune apparently collapsed into the hole. After his death, a property management and vacation home company in the Outer Banks Seaside Vacations wrote a blog after a fatal sand collapse in the area about the dangers of digging holes at the beach. They said: 'Sand is, by nature, structurally unstable. Beach erosion, storms, and the removal of sand can weaken the area, potentially causing issues even after the hole has been filled back in.' They recommended never digging deeper than knee height, particularly not in an area with dunes. A young girl was pronounced dead on arrival but the young boy survived and is in a stable condition Sand hole deaths are rare but there have been a few in recent years In 2022, Levi Caverly, 18, died after he and his 17-year-old sister became trapped when the sand collapsed on them inside a deep hole they were digging at the beach in Toms River. Levi died in the collapse while his sister was rescued alive. In 2012, another teen died after being trapped under a collapsed sand dune at Snow Canyon State Park, about 50 miles northwest of where Levi died. Also in 2022, a 35-year-old man was found dead with his feet sticking out of the sand along the Treasure Coast where he had leant on some sand before it collapsed on top of him. There were 52 deadly and non-deadly sand hole incidents between 1997 and 2007, according to a 2007 study in the New England Journal of Medicine. The study said it was an uncommon and underrecognized hazard. It said: 'Typically, victims became completely submerged in the sand when the walls of the hole unexpectedly collapsed, leaving virtually no evidence of the hole or the location of the victim. 'Collapse was inadvertently triggered by a variety of circumstances, including digging, tunneling, jumping, or falling into the hole.' The rising popularity of computerized appliances has made them more prone to accidents and much more expensive to repair New American homeowners have already begun facing expensive problems as reports of smart kitchen appliances breaking down much faster their 1990s counterparts have emerged. The rising popularity of computerized appliances has made them more prone to accidents and much more expensive to repair, according to technicians. According to Yelp data, Americans have requested 58 percent more repair quotes from thousands of businesses last month than they did in January 2022. Data from Euromonitor International shows that North American households are spending 43 percent more on home appliances in 2023 than a decade ago. But while spending has nearly increased by half, prices of kitchen appliances have only declined 12 percent in the past ten years, according to the Labor Department. The discrepancy has owners now wishing they still had their '90s appliances - which were free from technology and seemingly more durable. The rising popularity of computerized appliances has made them more prone to accidents and much more expensive to repair, according to technicians The discrepancy has owners now wishing they still had their 90s appliances - free of technology and durable A homeowner named Sharon Swan notably spent $7,000 on a Bosch gas range and smart refrigerator. Her 'smart' refrigerator's ice-maker has broken three times in under two years A homeowner named Sharon Swan notably spent $7,000 on a Bosch gas range and smart refrigerator, expecting that the reputed brand's products would last her till she decided to sell her Virginia house. But she was severely mistaken as the first time she used the broiler, the oven caught fire and she had to call 911. Her 'smart' refrigerator's ice-maker has broken three times in under two years. While Bosch covered the first two repairs, Swan had incur charges for the third one - a staggering amount of $250, plus parts. 'I feel like I wasted my money,' the 65-year-old consultant for trade associations told the Wall Street Journal. The first time Swan used the broiler, the oven caught fire and she had to call 911. San Diego's Kevin and Kellene (pictured) Dinino wish they still had their 90s dishwasher after spending tens of thousands on repairs of their new GE one The couple had bought a $800 stainless steel interior dishwasher but within three years, they discovered a hidden leak - causing them over $35,000 worth of damage Similar complaints have been made by San Diego's Kevin and Kellene Dinino, who wish they still had their 90s dishwasher after spending tens of thousands on repairs of their new GE one. The couple had bought a $800 stainless steel interior dishwasher but within three years, they discovered a hidden leak - causing them over $35,000 worth of damage. The couple had to file for flood insurance which included replacing the hardwood down to the subfloor and all their bottom cabinetry. While the claim was accepted, it kicked Dininos off their policy and left them without access to their kitchen for months. 'This was a $60 pump that was broken. What the hell happened?' Kevin, 45, who runs a financial public-relations firm told the publication. As a solution and for durability, Frontdoor virtual appliance tech Jim Zaccone recommends people to buy devices with few features 'Spending a lot of money on something doesnt guarantee you more reliability,' the expert said As a solution and for durability, Frontdoor virtual appliance tech Jim Zaccone recommends people to buy devices with few features. The technician, who has been in the business for 21 years, said he just bought a bottom-of-the-line dishwasher model from a mass-market brand with cheap and readily available parts. 'Consumers are wising up to the failures that are happening and going, "Do I really need my oven to preheat while Im at the grocery store?" 'Spending a lot of money on something doesnt guarantee you more reliability,' the expert said. Georgia's Republican Governor Brian Kemp revealed that he's been interviewed by Special Counsel Jack Smith over claims former President Donald Trump tried to overturn 2020 election results. Smith has brought federal charges alleging Trump 'made knowingly false claims that there had been outcome-determinative fraud in the 2020 presidential election.' Kemp previously testified before a grand jury as part of a separate investigation by Georgia prosecutors about Trump's efforts to overturn that state's results. Trump has claimed he is innocent in both cases. The governor, a conservative who Trump failed to oust in 2022 by endorsing his opponent, confirmed to CNN that he'd spoken to Smith 'months ago.' 'I basically told them the same thing I told the special grand juries: that I follow the law and the Constitution and answered all their questions truthfully,' Kemp said of the meeting, one that 'really didn't last that long.' Georgia's Republican Governor Brian Kemp revealed that he's been interviewed by Special Counsel Jack Smith over claims former President Donald Trump tried to overturn the state's 2020 election results Kemp was also asked by CNN's Kaitlan Collins about Trump's attempt to claim immunity from prosecution. 'Well, listen, I don't think anybody's above the law, you know, Democrat or Republican, independent myself or anybody else,' he said. The governor also admitted he felt the case could go either way. 'I definitely think he can win,' he said. 'You know, I definitely think he could lose.' He also refused to say whether he felt controversial Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis should be taken off the case. 'I would just tell you that six months, eight months ago, I never thought this case would go to trial before the election then. And I think most people think that's the case now,' Kemp said. 'As far as I'm concerned, I don't think voters should get too distracted on all of this and just stay focused on what's at hand going into November.' It isn't clear whether Smith was speaking to Kemp about the federal case or the charges in Georgia, which Kemp provided testimony for in 2022 to a special grand jury. Trump last week filed an emergency motion, asking the Supreme Court to put a hold on the federal case that had been set to begin in March. Kemp, a conservative who Trump failed to oust in 2022 by endorsing his opponent, confirmed to CNN that he'd spoken to Smith 'months ago.' The governor also admitted he felt Trump's case could go either way. 'I definitely think he can win,' he said. 'You know, I definitely think he could lose.' 'I basically told them the same thing I told the special grand juries: that I follow the law and the Constitution and answered all their questions truthfully,' Kemp said of the meeting with Smith (pictured), one that 'really didn't last that long' That timetable now appears shot, but Trump could still go on trial before the November elections, depending in part on what the high court decides to do. Trump wants to keep the trial frozen while he seeks an en banc review by the entire U.S. Court of Appeals. Trump was hit with federal criminal charges last August over his attempts to cling to power after losing the 2020 election, with a grand jury indictment accusing him of spreading 'lies' and 'sham' investigations while stoking an 'angry' mob on January 6. He is facing four counts including conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government and obstruct the electoral count for trying to overturn the 2020 election. The 45-page indictment says he was 'determined to remain in power' despite 'having lost.' Special Counsel Jack Smith said in a televised public statement following the release of the indictment that the attack on the Capitol was 'fueled by lies' made by Trump 'targeted at obstructing the bedrock function of the U.S. government - the nation's process of collecting, counting and certifying the results of the presidential election.' He pledged that his office will conduct a 'speedy' trial. The former president, who is facing a maximum of 55 years in prison on the four counts, has been summoned to appear in court on Thursday in Washington, D.C. His case was assigned to U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan - an Obama appointee who has a track record of being the 'toughest punisher' of Jan 6 rioters. Trump and his six unnamed co-conspirators 'used knowingly false claims of election fraud' to try to 'subvert the legitimate election results and change electoral votes' to take down Joe Biden, according to the indictment. In brief remarks outside an event in Philadelphia following the indictment, Attorney General Merrick Garland said that career employees of the Justice Department 'engaged in what has become the largest investigation in our history.' Trump was hit with federal criminal charges last August over his attempts to cling to power after losing the 2020 election, with a grand jury indictment accusing him of spreading 'lies' and 'sham' investigations while stoking an 'angry' mob on January 6 Special Counsel Jack Smith said in a televised public statement following the release of the indictment that the attack on the Capitol was 'fueled by lies' made by Trump 'targeted at obstructing the bedrock function of the U.S. government' The former president, who is facing a maximum of 55 years in prison on the four counts, has been summoned to appear in court on Thursday in Washington, D.C. His case was assigned to U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan - an Obama appointee who has a track record of being the 'toughest punisher' of Jan 6 rioters 'In order to underline the department's commitment to accountability and independence, Mr. Smith and his team of experienced principled career agents and prosecutors have followed the facts and the law wherever they lead,' Garland, who appointed Jack Smith as special counsel in November, told reporters. 'Any questions about this matter will have to be answered by the filings made.' The criminal cases have plunged the country into uncharted legal and political territory, as Trump accuses prosecutors of trying to derail his election campaign. The latest indictment comes amid a slew of investigations into the events of January 6, 2021, when Trump supporters clashed with police and overran the U.S. Capitol, and the way the then-president tried to overturn the result. The Trump campaign put out a statement calling the indictment another 'witch hunt' and comparing the U.S. to Nazi Germany. The January 6 indictment is 'nothing more than the latest corrupt chapter in the continued pathetic attempt by the Biden Crime Family and their weaponized Department of Justice to interfere with the 2024 Presidential Election, in which President Trump is the undisputed frontrunner, and leading by substantial margins' read the statement. 'The lawlessness of these persecutions of President Trump and his supporters is reminiscent of Nazi Germany in the 1930s, the former Soviet Union, and other authoritarian, dictatorial regimes,' the campaign statement continues. 'President Trump has always followed the law and the Constitution, with advice from many highly accomplished attorneys.' 'These un-American witch hunts will fail and President Trump will be re-elected to the White House so he can save our Country from the abuse, incompetence, and corruption that is running through the veins of our Country at levels never seen before.' Trump's new legal filing, which had been expected, come has he continues to argue that he must be immune from prosecution for actions he took as president. He has been charged with plotting to overturn his 2020 loss and interfering with an official proceeding when Congress met to count the electoral votes for president. He has pleaded not guilty. The case accuses Trump of pressuring officials not to certify Joe Biden's 2020 election win during the run-up to the Jan 6. attack on the U.S. Capitol The Supreme Court could decide to take up an appeal and weigh in on Trump's immunity claim. Or, it could take a pass and let a unanimous three-judge panel's ruling stand, which would start the clock ticking toward Trump's criminal trial The three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit comprised from left to right: Karen LeCraft Henderson (appointed by President George H.W. Bush), Michelle Childs and Florence Pan (both appointed by President Joe Biden) His lawyers filed an emergency appeal with the court last week, just four days after the justices heard Trump's separate appeal to remain on the presidential ballot despite attempts to kick him off because of his efforts following his election loss in 2020. In that case, even liberal justices asked skeptical questions about what might happen if a state were allow to deny a major party candidate's position on the ballot. Trump's latest gambit is to let the appeals process play out, with time to ask for the entire Appeals Court circuit to hear the case. That was an outcome that a three-judge panel that ruled against Trump appeared eager to avoid by imposing its own deadline. 'Allowing President Trump to pursue en banc review in the D.C. Circuit will provide an opportunity for similar thoughtful consideration in the lower court before this Court addresses the novel, complex, and momentous issues at stake in this appeal,' Trump's lawyers wrote in their request for a stay. Both cases put the high court at the center of the action in 2024. The Supreme Court's decision on what to do, and how quickly it acts, could determine whether the Republican presidential primary frontrunner stands trial in the case before the November. There is no timetable for the court to act, but special counsel Jack Smiths team has strongly pushed for the trial to take place this year. Trump, meanwhile, has repeatedly sought to delay the case. If Trump were to defeat President Joe Biden, he could potentially try to use his position as head of the executive branch to order a new attorney general to dismiss the federal cases he faces or even seek a pardon for himself. The Supreme Courts options include rejecting the emergency appeal, which would enable U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan to restart the trial proceedings in Washington's federal court. The court also could extend the delay while it hears arguments on the immunity issue. In that event, the schedule the justices might set could determine how soon a trial might begin, if indeed they agree with lower court rulings that Trump is not immune from prosecution. Five justices on the 6-3 conservative court could put in place such a stay, which would put the Trump trial on ice. Four justices would be enough to hear the case. Trump appointed three of the justices on the Court. The former president is also deep into the Georgia case which has been caught up in controversy over Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' personal life. READ MORE: Model and actress accused of unlawful sex with a teenage boy Will spend at least nine months behind bars A former IT employee at a prestigious Sydney girls school searched the term 'teen jailbait' on the dark web to find child abuse material depicting girls between the ages of 10 and 15, a court has been told. Michael Mowbray was working as an IT officer at North Sydney Girls High School around the time he was charged with possessing child abuse material in November 2022. He initially sought to fight the charges but reversed the plea and pleaded guilty to three counts of possessing child abuse material. Dressed in a blue suit, Mowbray faced Manly Local Court on Wednesday where a police prosecutor revealed the 30-year-old had searched 'teen jailbait' to find the material. The prosecutor argued the former IT worker was 'cognisant' of his criminality through his searches. Michael Mowbray (right) has pleaded guilty to possessing of using the dark web to find child abuse material while working North Sydney Girls High School READ MORE: Terence Kelly appeals his sentence over kidnapping Cleo Smith as lawyers brand it 'excessive' and claim the judge did not adequately take into account his childhood trauma Advertisement After searching for the images on the dark web through using the TOR browser, the court was told he then uploaded three images to his OneDrive account, which he accessed on his work computer at the school. The remainder of the 198 images and 103 videos were located on his bedroom computer and on a four terabyte encrypted hard drive. The court was told Mowbray named one of the files 'extreme teenie video collection' and another folder 'shy British amateur teens home alone f**k yay'. The police prosecutor said the nature and content of the material was concerning, as it depicted girls as young as 10 who are not easily mistaken for adults. Mowbray was caught while he was working as an IT support specialist for the prestigious school, working out of a 'help desk office' in the library offering support services. The court was told he had a password protected computer at the school which was accessed by a new administrator on November 22, 2022 who found the folder on the computer in Mowbray's personal OneDrive account. The principal was notified and contacted police immediately. A search warrant was conducted at his home two days later, where the remainder of the material was found. The court heard that Mowbray had uploaded three of the 198 images containing child abuse to a cloud drive to access from a password-protected computer at the school (pictured Magistrate Robyn Denes said the material depicted 'very clearly vulnerable children'. She said it was clear Mowbray knew what he was doing because he was accessing the dark web, which she said is an 'indication' it is something which 'will not be readily accepted in the community'. 'He clearly wanted a particular type of image,' the magistrate said. 'I accept it wasn't entirely sophisticated ... some was on OneDrive ... the majority of the material was encrypted, there is a level of sophistication. 'Possessing child pornography is a callous and predatory crime.'The magistrate also noted the offence is not victimless as it creates a market for the continued exploitation and abuse of children. Ms Denes said once the images are online they are 'there forever'. 'These children can never escape these images ... imagine going through life knowing ... your children may come across these images of you as a child,' she told the court. 'It's horrendous ... it's not victimless.' Mowbray sat in the public gallery holding a book and some chewing gum as the magistrate told the court his crimes were so serious there was no alternative to a prison sentence. The remaining images and a further 103 videos were located on Mowbray's bedroom computer and on a four terabyte encrypted hard drive He did not react as Ms Denes sentenced him to 18 months behind bars for the protection of the community and children. She gave him a non-parole period of nine months, meaning he will be eligible for parole on November 20. Mowbray was walked from the court by Sheriffs officers and taken into the cells. The magistrate also ordered the devices with the material be destroyed. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison with a non-parole period of nine months, however he applied for bail shortly after his defence indicated Mowbray will appeal the sentence His defence lawyer George Costantine indicated he would be appealing the sentence and applied for bail on Wednesday afternoon. Mr Costantine told Magistrate Robert Williams he was confident his client would see 'possible' success in the appeal. 'I say any District Court judge may come to a different view with respect to the sentence exercise in relation to his prospects of rehabilitation and offending,' he argued. He told the court his client had a supportive partner in the community, and a job. 'Your honour would find he could comply with bail and bail could be granted,' Mr Costantine said. After assessing all the information, Mr Williams found there was no other alternative to a full-time custodial sentence. He rejected the bail application. The appeal will be heard in the District Court in April. NCA NewsWire revealed last year Mowbray's employment at the school ended shortly before his arrest, with a source saying staff were asked to hand in their school-issued laptops to the IT department in the following days. At the time, a Department of Education spokesman told NCA NewsWire the safety and wellbeing of students and staff was its top priority. Britain is bracing for more heavy rain today after the Met Office issued a fresh yellow warning for downpours. The forecaster has warned that up to 3inches of rain could fall across the country - sparking flooding and travel chaos fears. The South West and Wales will be the the worst affected, with downpours likely to bring flooding to homes and businesses as well as interruptions to power supplies - meaning there could be powercuts. There could also be travel disruption in the worst affected areas, with delays expected on roads and rail services. The yellow warning is in place from midnight until 12pm today. Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst said: 'We could see quite widely across western parts of the UK 0.4 to 0.8in of rain. But over those higher ground spots of parts of Wales, south-west England in particular, we could see 1.5 to 1.96in and then locally 2.36 to 2.75in of rain.' The yellow weather warning is in place from the early hours of this morning to midday The summer seems an age away as shoppers in Bournemouth walk past a sunny advertisement Sunshine is expected in the afternoon following a very wet morning A car is stuck in the Buttsbury Wash near Billericay in Essex, which is famous for flooding There is a risk of longer journey times on roads due to excess water The flooded road between Whittlesey and Thorney, near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, which has been closed to traffic Massive flooding in Cambridgeshire results in a closed road as a man walks to the water's edge Due to the heavy rainfall throughout February, the meteorologist added that the rain could easily lead to flooding. 'This falling on the back of what has been a wet winter, wet month... we could see some flooding develop as we move through tomorrow morning,' he said. The yellow weather warning read: 'Heavy rain may result in some flooding and disruption on Wednesday morning.' The Met Office also warned: 'Spray and flooding on roads will make journey times longer. Some interruption to power supplies and other services. 'A few homes and businesses could be flooded. Bus and train services affected with journeys taking longer' A map of all the areas in England and Wales which have been issued with a flood warning Commuters try to stay dry in the wet weather following the yellow warning from the Met Office A commuter takes shelter under an umbrella during wet weather at Maze Hill Station in Greenwich, London There was flooding in some areas yesterday before the yellow weather warning came into place today Picture shows flooding on the High Street and fields in Holywell in Cambridgeshire yesterday The weather is set to improve in the afternoon, however, when the rain is set to subside to sunny spells. Greg Dewhurst added: 'It becomes much brighter into the afternoon through Wednesday with sunny spells. 'It takes time to clear across some central southern parts of the UK so it might stay cloudy here and then some parts of southern England may continue to see rain through the day.' Temperatures are set to range between 12C and 14C throughout the day. Julian Assange could be sent to the US to face espionage charges within weeks, campaigners said yesterday as he began a final court battle to block his extradition. Lawyers for the Wikileaks founder told the High Court that he faced a politically motivated prosecution in America which would amount to a 'flagrant denial of justice'. They claimed the espionage charges against him were an unprecedented attempt by Washington to 'criminalise journalism', in retaliation for Wikileaks' publication of thousands of leaked documents relating to US conduct in Iraq and Afghanistan. Assange could face a 'grossly disproportionate' possible 175-year jail sentence if convicted, and could even face the death penalty if further charges were brought, his lawyers said. Donald Trump's White House previously considered plans to kidnap or even murder the Wikileaks founder after a senior security official accused him of 'waging cyber-war on the United States', the court heard. Assange, 52, is fighting extradition to the US where he faces charges of espionage and computer hacking over an alleged conspiracy to obtain and publish hundreds of thousands of leaked documents and diplomatic cables related to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. His lawyers said it had exposed 'criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale', including torture and war crimes, and claimed the US prosecution was effectively 'state retaliation'. This week's appeal to the High Court is Assange's final chance to convince the British courts to block the extradition. Julian Assange gestures to the media from a police vehicle on his arrival at Westminster Magistrates' Court on April 11, 2019 Stella Assange, the wife of Julian Assange, addresses supporters outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London Supporters of Julian Assange demonstrate outside the Royal Courts of Justice on the first day of Assange's final appeal hearing If it fails he will be extradited within a month, unless his legal team can convince the European Court of Human Rights to intervene. Australian-born Assange was given special permission to attend the two-day hearing, but his lawyers said he was too unwell to be in court, or even to watch proceedings via a video link. He has been held in high-security Belmarsh prison for almost five years and previously spent seven years living inside the Ecuadorian embassy in Knightsbridge, West London. His wife Stella Assange said his health had deteriorated during his time in prison. She addressed crowds of his supporters who gathered outside the High Court building, chanting 'Free Julian Assange'. She told them: 'You're here because the world is watching. They just cannot get away with this. Julian needs his freedom and we all need the truth.' Referring to the Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny, who died in prison last week, she said: 'What happened to Navalny can happen to Julian, and will happen to Julian if he is extradited.' Lawyers for Assange told the court that Britain's treaty with America meant it did not extradite people accused of political offences. Edward Fitzgerald KC, for Assange, said: 'We submit that the prosecution is politically motivated. Mr Assange was exposing serious state criminality and such exposure is a protected activity.' He went on: 'Mr Assange, we say, is being prosecuted for engaging in the ordinary journalistic practice of obtaining and publishing classified information, information that is both true and of obvious and important public interest.' Police stand by as protesters in London demand Assange's release Mr Fitzgerald said senior US officials had previously claimed Assange's alleged activities amounted to treason, which can carry the death penalty. Assange's legal team asked judges to consider an alleged plot by the CIA to kidnap or kill Assange while he was inside the Ecuadorian embassy, which was allegedly overseen by 'the highest levels' of the Trump administration in 2017. Mr Fitzgerald said the possible return of a Trump administration meant there was a renewed risk of 'extrajudicial attack' against Assange. The Wikileaks founder could not have a fair trial in the US because of public comments about him by Mr Trump and other senior officials which meant any jurors would be 'prejudiced irretrievably by public denunciations of him [Assange] made by the President downwards', he told the court. Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded WikiLeaks 'a non-state hostile intelligence service', and Mr Trump has previously called for Assange to face the death penalty. Assange has been fighting extradition for more than a decade. A district judge previously ruled he should not be sent to the US because of the risk he would commit suicide, but her decision was successfully challenged by US authorities. They argue that he should stand trial in America over the Wikileaks publication of leaked documents in 2010, which they claim jeopardised 'the strategic and national security interests of the US and put the safety of individuals at serious risk'. The hearing continues. Locals of a tiny Cumbria town in the grips of a housing shortage have reacted with fury to plans to use eight homes to house asylum seekers - as police increase patrols after the accommodation was vandalised. The properties in the remote seaside town of Millom - where a terraced house can be bought for below 100,000 - are set to be converted into Houses Of Multiple Occupancy (HMOs). Under the plans, the homes will be used to put up around 40 newcomers from overseas, with developers apparently in line for annual returns of up to 15% on their investment costs. Earlier this week, graffiti appeared on the side of one of the houses under renovation which read, not welcome scum, in large black letters. This sparked increased police patrols in the area and the council to issue a call for calm in the area. The furore began in January with the posting of a video on social media by developers BH Property Investments, which has close links to leading asylum accommodation providers Serco and Mears. The proposals are opposed by the local council and mayor as well as many local residents on the basis there is already a shortage of homes and infrastructure for existing residents. Angry locals say there isn't the infrastructure to house asylum seekers, with the local police station shut down and public services stretched to the brink. Opponents to the developments say no one was consulted as properties were bought up en masse by developers who then sought lucrative Government-backed contracts to redevelop them. One of the terrace houses which is planned to house asylum seekers The side of one of the terrace houses marked for development to house asylum seekers was spray painted with the message: 'Not welcome scum' This map shows the locations of the houses that will be turned into housing for asylum seekers in Millom, a small seaside town in Cumbria Town Mayor Simone Faulkner (left) said the nature of the developments only came to light when locals asked builders about the works Concerned resident Hazel O'Malley (right) said: It feels like going back in time when you come to Millom In Millom, patients struggle to get appointments at the doctor - and there are no dentists The area is deprived and struggling with residents saying they simply do not have the infrastructure for asylum seekers in the town The town of Millom in Cumbria - with a population of 5,700 - is in the grips of a housing shortage They point out that residents already struggle to book GP appointments, there are no dentists, the nearest fully manned police station is 45 minutes away in Whitehaven, hospitals are at least 40 minutes away and 112 local families are on the waiting list for rented accommodation. One local said: Its already virtually impossible to get a dental appointment in Millom. The only dentist in town isnt taking new NHS patients and has a long waiting for private patients. Its also a struggle to get an appointment at the GP, you have to be quick to get in and its a case of queuing on the phone and hoping youll be able to see a doctor that date and often you cant. People are having to travel to Barrow and Whitehaven for basic health provision so were already at breaking point. These arent small distances, I think people in bigger towns are shocked when they discover the reality of living somewhere this isolated. In a wave of ensuing anger after the plans emerged, anti-asylum graffiti began appearing on houses earmarked for conversion, bricks were hurled through windows in some properties and builders found tyres slashed on their vans. The property company's investment video showed the developer giving a tour around the property whilst saying: We are going to convert this house into a six bedroom social HMO. Once ready we will receive a long term lease, guaranteed income, no maintenance and no voids. Locals who saw BH Property Investments' video formed a group called Millom Community Action Group to oppose the scheme on the basis that the towns infrastructure couldn't cope with the influx - and demanding action is taken to stop it. When MailOnline visited the town on Friday, a public meeting was being held in the chapel for anxious elderly residents. Police went from table to table to try to reassure worried pensioners that if the anticipated influx were to happen, they would still be safe in their homes. Safety adviser Dean Myers, 49, the figurehead of the action group, was also on hand to assure people everything possible was being done to stop the plans. He said: I've been accused of being racist for standing up against this, but nothing could be further from the truth. This is not about race or prejudice, that isn't what Millom is about and the action group has been really disappointed by the graffiti and vandalism. We appreciate that feelings are running high, the town is a tinderbox, but that kind of action solves nothing and we don't want to see it. Dean Myers and Simone Faulkner outside the public meeting aimed at addressing the concerns of locals former postmaster Ged McGrath, 64, said that many more homes could have been affected as more than 20 applications for HMO conversions being made The terraced how which had anti-asylum seeker graffiti spray painted on its side The tiny town of Millom could be set to house asylum seekers in eight different run-down properties This movement to stop asylum seekers being housed here is purely about MIllom not having the amenities and infrastructure to support them. We have local families desperate for somewhere to live and the available properties are being snapped up by property developers because they know they can make big profits from contracts with the likes of Serco. And all this has been happening without any consultation whatsoever, local people found out by accident through word of mouth and now we have houses across the town with teams of builders in them. In 2022 the former Copeland Council specifically mentioned Millom to Serco and the police as being an unsuitable place to house asylum seekers because of its location and lack of services. And here we are two years later with that advice completely ignored and the people of town in a state of anxiety. I've had an elderly lady tell me she has walked to see her friend in a neighbouring village for years but won't now dare set foot outside her house. Another elderly resident is blocking holes in her walls with Brillo pads to stop rats coming in and she can't find new housing because the available property is being snapped up and turned into HMOs. No thought or consideration has been given to this and Serco haven't spoken to anyone in Millom to our knowledge, not even the town council. Millom Town Council appealed for local people not to take the law into their own hands. In a statement they said: We urge local people to uphold the law and let this be dealt with through the correct channels. The council added: Millom Town Council would ask the community for this behaviour to cease whilst we progress this through the correct channels, with the support of MP Trudy Harrison, Cumberland Council and Cumbria police. We have identified several of the property companies involved and made representations to them as to why Millom is unsuitable and that the council will not support this unplanned approach and will do all it can to stop these developments until proper planning and consultation with the community has taken place. The chairman of the council, former postmaster Ged McGrath, 64, said that many more homes could have been affected as more than 20 applications for HMO conversions being made. He said: The council managed to persuade many developers to change their mind but there is still a significant number of properties in various stages of conversion and I understand why people are concerned. Property here is cheap and developers know if they get a lease from Serco they can return yields of 12-13-14% It's become a very good investment and it's driven by the money machine. This is all part of Government policy not to house asylum seekers in hotels and they are trying to disperse them fairly across the country. Another one of the properties that has been earmarked to house asylum seekers Safety adviser Dean Myers, 49, is the figurehead of the action group But they have to choose carefully where they place people and towns like MIllom are simply not suitable. Despite the anxiety, the local council has written to the action group to say it is powerless to intervene. Concerned resident Hazel O'Malley said: It feels like going back in time when you come to Millom, it's the sort of community that used to exist in a different era where people look out for each other - people don't lock their doors, it's that safe. But it's completely unsuitable for dozens of young men to be housed here, not just from the town's point of view but also from theirs. What will they do? There's nothing here for them to do. If these were families fleeing war or persecution they would be welcomed with open arms, because that's what Millom does, but it's the wrong place for these places that house 5 or 6 men in separate rooms. Town Mayor Simone Faulkner said: This only came to light because people started talking to the contractors working on the houses and it was them that warned people that asylum seekers would be living there. We've heard nothing from the companies with contracts to house asylum seekers, that has all happened without any kind of consultation. In a letter to Mr Myers, Rob Cartner, Cumberland Council's Resettlement Programme Manager, writes: The council has limited involvement and influence on the procurement of of properties by Serco, however we have raised our concerns about the potential number of asylum seekers who may be placed in Millom, given its location and limited access to services. We recognise known pressures around GPs and dentists, however, this is an issue nationally and Serco may choose to continue with procurement in line with their contract despite the concerns we have raised. The council cannot veto locations or properties, but we have worked with Serco and Cumbria Police to suggest areas in Cumberland that are avoided due to crime rates, antisocial behaviour, hate crime etc in line with Serco's contract with the Home Office. A Cumberland Council spokesman said: 'Cumberland Council are aware that Serco have made plans to open a number of properties to asylum seekers in Millom. 'We have raised concerns with Serco and the Home Office - and Serco have paused procurement of properties in Millom while these concerns are being considered. 'The council have received complaints from local residents about this proposal. Serco is contracted by the Home Office for delivery of Asylum Dispersal within the North West, including the Cumberland area. 'Serco procure properties for the purpose of Asylum Dispersal and Cumberland Council has limited involvement in that process. 'Where the Council has concerns regarding area, access to services, crime rates, or transport links, we are able to raise these with Serco. However, Serco can still choose to continue with procurement. A Home Office spokesperson said: We condemn any vandalism in the strongest possible terms. We have always been upfront about the unprecedented pressure being put on our asylum system, brought about by a significant increase in dangerous and illegal journeys into the country over recent years. The Home Office has a duty to provide safe and secure housing for asylum seekers and we are continuing to work closely with local authorities in Millom, to manage any impact in the area and address the local communities concerns. Serco didn't respond to requests for comment. Prince William called for an end to the fighting in Gaza last night in an unprecedented royal intervention. In an extraordinary and symbolic statement, the future king spoke about the 'terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack'. The Prince of Wales also highlighted the desperate need for more humanitarian support for the civilians of Gaza and, notably, called on Hamas to release its remaining Israeli hostages. MailOnline can now reveal what Prince William said, and what he meant, in this historic royal statement. Prince William last night called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement the future king said the 'terrible human cost' of the conflict had seen 'too many killed' What he said: 'I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7. Too many have been killed.' What it means: Prince William reminds us that he and his wife have already voiced their 'profound distress' at the horrors inflicted by Hamas's terrorist attack' last year. The new statement makes the simple humanitarian case that the cost of the conflict to civilians on both sides has been too high. What he said: 'I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It's critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released.' What it means: The prince calls for an end to fighting 'as soon as possible' but pointedly stops short of calling for an immediate ceasefire demanded by the Left, which critics warn could allow Hamas to re-arm. In a balanced statement he underlines the desperate need to relieve human suffering in Gaza while also calling on Hamas to release the remaining hostages. What he said: 'Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home.' What it means: Again, the prince makes the humanitarian case that the enormity of the crisis demands that the world make a renewed effort to find a lasting solution to the decades-old Middle East crisis. He makes no explicit reference to the idea of a two-state solution, which is now opposed by Israel's prime minster Benjamin Netanyahu, but stresses the importance of 'permanent peace', which suggests a long-term settlement between Israel and the Palestinian territories. What he said: 'Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that.' What it means: The prince appears to have thought long and hard about whether to intervene in such strong terms. But, possibly because of his own experience as the first royal to visit Israel and the West Bank in 2018, and because the hour is so dark, he has decided the potential benefits outweigh the risk of being accused of overstepping his constitutional role. Israel is 'dismayed' by Prince William's call for an end to the fighting in Gaza but do not want to risk entering a public row with the future King following his unprecedented royal intervention, it was claimed last night. In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement, the heir to the throne said the 'terrible human cost' of the Israel-Hamas conflict had seen 'too many killed'. 'I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible,' said William, 41. He also highlighted the desperate need for more humanitarian aid for the civilians of Gaza and, notably, called on Hamas to release its remaining Israeli hostages. The prince's carefully-chosen words are the strongest yet by a senior royal in response to Israel's devastating military action in Gaza following the sickening terror attacks of October 7. Israeli chiefs are understood to have been caught off by the prince's intervention and The Telegraph reports they consider his public statement to be naive. The newspaper claims they are 'dismayed' but do not want to risk clashing with Britain's future King. It comes ahead of a crunch vote in the Commons today on a second SNP-led motion for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Prince William last night called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement the future king said the 'terrible human cost' of the conflict had seen 'too many killed' Palestinians search for bodies and survivors among the rubble following Israeli airstrikes on the west of Al Nusairat refugee camp (February 20) Last night, the UK Government put forward an amendment to counter the SNP's ceasefire motion in a move that could expose Labour splits over conflict. Labour had looked to avoid another possible rebellion over the Israel-Hamas war by tabling its own amendment to the SNP motion. Sir Keir Starmer's party yesterday publicly shifted its stance to back a call for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire', giving MPs who were unhappy with the leadership's previous handling of the issue a wording to rally behind. But the Government's decision to table its own counter-amendment to the motion increases the likelihood that the Commons Speaker will not choose the Labour amendment for debate today. It could leave Labour MPs with the choice between voting for the Government's position, which does not go as far as calling for an immediate ceasefire, and the SNP's stance. The debate will be going on as thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators are expected to take part in a rally in Parliament Square on Wednesday. Lisa Nandy, shadow international development minister, said Labour's proposal for a ceasefire differs from the SNP's by emphasising that it must be 'two-sided'. She told Good Morning Britain: 'On the question of immediate ceasefire, there's no difference. We have used the language of our international 'Five Eyes' partners Australia, Canada and New Zealand who over the last few days have called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. So far, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry, almost 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza and a further 1.7million displaced. Pictured: Palestinians search for bodies and survivors (Feburary 20) 'We think that adds weight to those calls, that the world is speaking with one voice as the ground invasion of Rafah is imminent and it must be averted. 'But there are significant differences between our proposition and the SNP's. We are clear that any ceasefire by definition must be two-sided, that Israel can't be expected to lay down its weapons if Hamas doesn't observe the terms of that ceasefire. 'The SNP motion is vague, whether deliberately or otherwise, on that point and we think it's extremely important that we send that message.' She added that Labour's amendment also included a 'political horizon and a pathway to peace' in the long-term, which the SNP motion did not. Prince William's public statement also came ahead of a visit by the Prince of Wales to the British Red Cross in London to discuss the spiralling humanitarian crisis in Gaza and beyond. His statement was issued with the knowledge of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and welcomed by Downing Street, which said his 'measured' call for an end to the fighting was in line with the Government's position. Royal aides emphasised that it was the 'extent of the human suffering that is on display which had led him to make the statement he has today'. They would not confirm whether it had the backing of the King. But father and son did meet in Norfolk at the weekend, where Charles is recuperating from cancer treatment. However, the statement also puts the heir to the throne at risk of accusations of meddling. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted calls to halt his military action, making clear that he will not stop until Hamas, which is classed as a terror organisation by the UK Government, is destroyed and Gaza is demilitarised. He is now planning to invade the city of Rafah, a move which the United States has condemned. And today sees a contentious, and highly emotive, debate in Parliament over the conflict. Last night some Tory MPs criticised William, with suggestions that he risked undermining 'the underlying principle of our constitutional monarchy'. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said today's intervention was evidence that William was following elements of his father Charles' 'outspoken' approach to issues of the day. Pictured: The King attends this Sunday's service Israel's government spokesman Eylon Levy issued a more diplomatic response to the Prince's intervention, saying: 'Israelis of course want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible, and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the 7 October atrocities is dismantled. 'We appreciate the Prince of Wales' call for Hamas to free the hostages. We also recall with gratitude his statement from 11 October condemning Hamas's terror attacks and reaffirming Israel's right of self-defence against them.' Sources close to the heir to the throne acknowledged that the issues surrounding the crisis are highly politicised. But they stressed that having undertaken a well-received visit to both Israel and the West Bank in 2018, William had been following events closely. Veteran diplomat who is advising heir to the throne Senior diplomat David Hunt accompanied the Prince of Wales on a visit to the headquarters of the British Red Cross yesterday. Mr Hunt joined Prince William's team last summer as a special adviser on foreign affairs from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The married father-of-two has more than 20 years of international experience. He joined the Foreign Office in 2001 from the private sector. His experience includes a three-year stint as the ambassador to Lithuania and he was the consul general to the Kurdistan region of Iraq for over a year, according to his LinkedIn profile. Prior to these roles, Mr Hunt was the consul general in Washington and worked for two years as a deputy director at the Foreign Office. Advertisement They said he had thought 'long and hard' about whether to say anything, but felt the overwhelming humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region required him to speak out. So far, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry, almost 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza and a further 1.7million displaced, out of a population of two million. Hamas murdered almost 1,200 Israeli and foreign nationals on October 7, and took almost 250 hostages. Royal aides insisted that William's words should not be taken as a call for an immediate ceasefire or a comment on the issue of a 'two state' solution, but as an instinctive reaction to monumental loss of life both as a human being and 'as a father'. Many royal insiders see the statement as an example of William's distinct vision for the monarchy and his desire to speak his mind on the issues that matter. Sources close to the prince have long told the Mail that he believes the institution 'needs to better explain its own thinking, particularly in terms of its place in the world'. The Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis shared William's statement online and wrote: 'Since his visit to the region in 2018, the Prince of Wales has shown a deep concern for the well-being of all those affected by the conflict in the Middle East and his words of compassion today, which I welcome, are yet further evidence of this' However, Tory peer Stewart Jackson described the Prince's intervention as 'ill-timed and ill-judged'. Conservative MP Andrew Percy, vice-chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on anti-Semitism, said: 'The underlying principle of our constitutional monarchy is that members of the Royal Family do not engage in contentious political issues of the day on which there are divergent and strongly held beliefs in this country.' Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage said on X, formerly Twitter: 'I'm not sure that our future King should be doing this. He should stick to the Baftas.' William's visit to the Red Cross was one of two engagements the other to a synagogue next week designed to recognise 'human suffering' from all sides as a result of the current conflict. The Prince of Wales listened today to Pascal Hundt, senior crisis manager with the International Committee of the Red Cross, dialling in from Gaza 'Their Royal Highnesses hold all the victims, their families and their friends in their hearts and minds,' a spokesperson previously said on behalf of William and Kate, pictured During the visit William spoke via video link to Pascal Hundt, senior crisis manager with the International Committee of the Red Cross, who is currently in Gaza. As he left the building there were two cries of 'free Palestine' from an otherwise enthusiastic crowd. No 10 was informed in advance of the prince's statement, and the Prime Minister is said to have told colleagues that the points made by William reflected his own views. A Whitehall source said the prince's comments would add momentum to the search for peace. 'Whenever the Royals speak, people listen,' the source said. Russian forces were hit by one of the single most devastating blows of the war when a Ukrainian HIMARS missile strike wiped out 65 soldiers ordered to line up in formation by a blundering commander. Harrowing footage taken by horrified survivors showed how dozens of bodies were left strewn across a pockmarked, charred field in the aftermath of the strike. The soldiers and officers were killed en masse - with more wounded - because they had been ordered to line up for an impromptu inspection by leading war commander Major-General Oleg Moiseev, 49. Ukraine plainly had intelligence about the gathering with disciplinarian Moiseev, commander of the 29th Army of the Eastern Military District and a hero of pro-Putin propagandists. The pinpoint HIMARS attack is reported by Russian sources to have struck moments before the major-general reached the spot, devastating his company and leaving dozens more injured. Russia's air force also suffered a setback today with Ukraine claiming to have shot down another Russian Su-34 fighter jet, according to Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk - the seventh enemy warplane in a week. Harrowing footage taken by horrified survivors shows how dozens of bodies were left strewn across a pockmarked, charred field in the aftermath of the strike At least 65 Russian soldiers standing in formation were killed The dead soldiers are lined up as comrades prepare body bags Ukraine plainly had intelligence about the gathering with disciplinarian Moiseev, commander of the 29th Army of the Eastern Military District and a hero of pro-Putin propagandists Russian military war-bloggers reacted with fury to the folly of Moiseev's inspection of the 4th, 5th and 6th companies of the 36th Guards Motorised Rifle Brigade in Trudivske, occupied Donetsk region. One furious comment stated: 'One can only be surprised at the lack of learning of [commanders] in the second year of [the war].' There was personal blame for Major-General Moiseev - a commander with three orders of courage who was the subject of a cloying propaganda film by Putin's favourite TV cheerleader Vladimir Solovyov. Another channel hit out: 'He set up this formation. He killed these men.' War reporter Andrey Rudenko lambasted commanders like Moiseev for lining up their troops close to the frontline 'to simply show your importance'. He posted sarcastically: 'There is a very high probability of receiving a HIMARS MLRS rocket in what is called your head. 'Therefore, take care of yourself and your subordinates!' Prominent pro-Kremlin politician Vladimir Rogov hit out at the 'criminal practice' of parading soldiers in front of commanders in 'missile-ridden terrain'. Many of the dead troops were from the TransBaikal region of Siberia. The authorities there today sought to stop dissemination of reports about the carnage suffered by the soldiers. The Highly Mobile Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) are self-propelled launchers, equipped with a missile pod that can fire a range of different weapons. They can fire six missiles in succession, enabling Ukraine to strike deep into Russian held territory and spread the damage over a large blast radius. War reporter Andrey Rudenko lambasted commanders like Moiseev for lining up their troops close to the frontline 'to simply show your importance' Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu is seen briefing Putin about Russian victory in Avdiivka HIMARS launchers can fire a number of different rockets The costly blunder came as Putin sought to bask in the glory of his troops' minor advance in Avdiivka, following a tactical retreat by the Ukrainian army. The dictator told his defence minister Sergei Shoigu: 'As for the overall situation in Avdiivka, this is an absolute success. 'I congratulate you. It needs to be built on.' Shoigu boasted: 'The operation for the liberation of Avdiivka will be included in textbooks and studied in all educational institutions of the [Russian] Defence Ministry.' Seeking to impress, he reportedly also lied to Putin over the capture of another strategically significant Ukrainian village Krynki, in Kherson region, which remains in Ukrainian hands according to military bloggers and war observers. 'It is indeed true Krynki has been cleared [of Ukrainians],' Shoigu told his boss. Russian Telegram channel Thirteenth reported: 'How many more fantastic versions will be reported to the top [Putin]? 'This is not positive propaganda, this is an outright lie [by Shoigu].' READ MORE: Tragedy as AFP officer takes his own life at Perth headquarters Call Lifeline 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 if you need support A police officer aged in her 20s has taken her own life in regional Western Australia. The female constable, who has not yet been named, was found dead at her home in Albany, 418km south-east of Perth, on Wednesday The WA Police Union is providing support to the officer's heartbroken family, colleagues and friends. 'It is with overwhelming sadness that we mourn the loss of a member of the blue family today,' a statement read. 'A serving police constable passed away this morning. 'The WA Police Union extend our sincerest condolences to the constable's family, friends and colleagues during this time.' A female police officer in her 20s has died after taking her own life in regional Western Australia. A WA police vehicle is pictured EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Victorian cop found dead at Glen Waverley police station after taking his own life Glen Waverley Police Station is pictured Advertisement In a message to police officers, Acting WA Police Commissioner Kylie Whiteley said the officer's passing was a tragedy. 'Family members and staff within the Great Southern Police District are in the process of being provided with support during this tragic time,' she wrote. 'I ask you to reach out if you need help ... keep an eye on those around you and offer your personal support where needed.' The death of the young officer is not being treated as suspicious. A report will be prepared for the coroner. Several WA Police officers have taken their own lives in recent years, the West Australian reported. In 2019, 53-year-old Senior Constable Dave Curtis took his own life. Two years later, in mid-2021, two officers, including a sergeant who ran his own station, committed suicide within two weeks of each other. One of those was Constable Cameron Fyfe, who was 27. An inquest into his death held in 2023 heard that Const Fyfe hid his mental health problems from his bosses because he feared there would be repercussions if he spoke about it. His death, and that of Sergeant Randall Moulden, led to then-police commissioner Chris Dawson to convene the first-ever police mental health forum in WA. If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636. The vast majority of Europeans would push for a peace deal to end the fighting Roughly 90 per cent of Europeans believe Ukraine can't win the war, a poll finds Just one in ten Europeans think Ukraine can still defeat Russia and a 'compromise settlement' is seen as the most likely outcome, poll has found. Of the 12 countries surveyed, ten believe Russia has a greater chance of winning the war, the YouGov study found. The two that have faith in Ukraine being victorious are Poland and Portugal - with the former only very marginally backing their geographical neighbour over Russia. The country that has the least faith in Ukraine is Greece with only a tiny proportion of respondents saying that the country will win the war. Hungary, which also borders the war-torn nation, isn't far behind, according to the EU-wide poll called Wars and Elections: How European leaders can maintain public support for Ukraine. It is said that Europeans' commitment to preventing a Russian victory had not moved Europeans might not be as in touch with their moral loyalty to Ukraine as they once were According to the poll, Hungary believes more than any other of the 12 countries that Russia will come out on top. Poll Can Ukraine defeat Russia? Yes No Can Ukraine defeat Russia? Yes 70 votes No 68 votes Now share your opinion As reported by the Guardian, the authors of the poll report found that on the second anniversary of Russia'a invasion of Ukraine, Europeans are not in a 'heroic mood', or even optimistic about the situation. Despite this, it is said that Europeans' commitment to preventing a Russian victory had not moved. However, another poll suggests that Europeans might not be as in touch with their moral loyalty to Ukraine as they once were. The vast majority of people surveyed in the 12-country poll believe that the war-locked countries should come to a peace deal - rather than Ukraine pushing for victory. Co-author of the report, Mark Leonard, of the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), which commissioned the poll, told the Guardian that most Europeans are 'desperate to prevent a Russian victory' but would push for merely providing aid as they doubt Ukraine's military capability. The vast majority of people surveyed in the 12-country poll believe that the war-locked countries should come to a peace deal This is in stark contrast to the general notion around Europe at the beginning of the war, when countries such as the UK were so adamant on stopping Putin in his tracks, they were prepared to boycott Russian exports. Another YouGov poll on the same European countries but this time on the topic of Donald Trump getting elected in the upcoming US elections, shows a very strong correlation between the countries that believe Ukraine should settle and the countries that back the presidential candidate. This is unsurprising due to the promises Trump has made over the course of the war. Last year, Trump was asked for his specific plan to bring the war to an end in an interview with Fox News host Maria Bartiromo. He said that it would boil down to his good relationships with Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin. Many Europeans believe continuing to provide aid will help the countries reach a settlement Donald Trump has previously said he could end the war in 24 hours if he got into power Trump said: 'I know Zelensky very well, I know Putin very well - even better - and I had a very good relationship with both of them.' The presidential hopeful said he would tell Zelensky: 'No more, you gotta make a deal.' He said he would then tell Putin: 'If you dont make a deal, were gonna give them a lot. Were gonna give more than they ever got.' There is also a strong correlation between the European countries that believe Ukraine has a fighting chance to outright win the war and those who support Trump. On the whole, the less faith the country has in Ukraine, the more support they have for Trump - and presumably, his war-ending promises. Gender rights campaigners have warned that allowing trans women born as men to live in female-only British Army accommodation is a 'court case waiting to happen'. Top brass are alleged to have dismissed soldiers' concerns by insisting: 'It's not an issue as you can tell who are predators.' But there has been a backlash after it was revealed government guidance is giving the go-ahead for soldiers to transfer to female-only barracks as soon as they begin their transition. Worried MPs have urged Defence Secretary Grant Shapps to reconsider, raising concerns that female military members could be put at risk - and gender critical author Helen Joyce accused the MoD of threatening women's privacy and safety. Defence document JSP 889, which provides guidance for the recruitment and management of trans military personnel, says the 'determining issue' when arranging accommodation is a soldier's 'affirmed' gender - rather than that assigned at birth. Soldiers who are transitioning from men to women can live in female-only barracks, official Government guidance states. Pictured: File photo of army recruits preparing for a day of training in a four-man room at Alexander Barracks in Pirbright, Surrey Gender critical author Helen Joyce has called the guidance 'a court case waiting to happen' It stipulates military member should have access to 'toilet and changing room facilities appropriate to their affirmed gender' as soon as their transition starts. And 'under no circumstances' should a transgender person be expected to use facilities for their 'assigned gender' after transitioning, it adds. Ms Joyce, author of the book Trans: When Ideology Meets Reality, posted today on X, formerly Twitter: 'This is a court case waiting to happen. 'I hope a claimant comes forward - a woman denied safety and privacy by the prioritisation of men's identity claims over women's rights.' One serving member of personnel told The Telegraph her concerns about a transgender member of the forces joining her squadron - with a manager telling her not to worry and claiming: 'It's not an issue as you can tell you are predators.' And a woman in the RAF who recently returned from an overseas secondment sharing washing facilities with men and women said: 'Military bases at home are compromised if female spaces are not managed appropriately.' Conservative MP Sarah Atherton, who oversaw a report examining sexual assault and harassment in the military, criticised the policy for being 'unclear' - and suggested the Ministry of Defence 'haven't thought this through properly'. She argued the guidance 'allows predatory men to misuse the policy to continue this abhorrent behaviour'. Ms Atherton, who served in the Intelligence Corps, said: 'Having done extensive work around women in the Armed Forces, I am fully aware of the extent of sexual abuse that has gone on and continues to go on.' She called for women to have 'secure accommodation' and 'safe spaces' due to 'poor sexual behaviour and misuse of power in the military', adding: 'Women need to have secure accommodation where they feel safe.' Mr Shapps is understood to be examining the policy as part of a new review he has ordered into all the military's diversity and inclusion policies. Defence sources said the 'majority' of single-sex living accommodations have 'lockable' rooms with en-suites, insisting it was 'rare' for people of the opposite sex to share washing facilities. They also told MailOnline there had only been a 'small number' of transgender Service personnel asking accommodation of their affirmed gender, which had been 'managed locally and on a case-by-case basis'. Tory MP Sarah Atherton (pictured), who oversaw a report examining sexual assault and harassment in the military, criticised the policy for being 'unclear' Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has ordered a review of MoD diversity and inclusion policy READ MORE: Army moves hundreds of troops from front line to recruitment offices because force is shrinking too quickly after falling by more than 3,000 troops in last year Advertisement It was also said military members who feel 'uncomfortable' can raise their 'concerns', to then be 'considered by the chain of command'. The official document states: 'As soon as the transition process begins the person should be provided with accommodation that is appropriate to their affirmed gender. 'From the date of transition, the person should also have use of the toilet and changing room facilities appropriate to their affirmed gender. 'Under no circumstances should a transgender person be expected, after transitioning, to use the facilities of their assigned gender.' MailOnline has approached the Ministry of Defence for comment. The MoD previously published a new Inclusive Language Guide warning members of the Armed Forces that using the words 'woman' and 'female' interchangeably 'erases' members of the trans community. It states: 'Referring to women as females is perceived by many as reducing a woman to her reproductive parts and abilities. 'Not all women are biologically female, and the conflation of "female" to "woman" erases gender nonconforming people and members of the trans community.' Earlier this month Mr Shapps ordered a review of what has been dubbed the British Army's 'woke nonsense' inclusion policy earlier this month, after reports it wants to relax security checks for overseas recruits to boost diversity. The Defence Secretary said there would be no 'lowering of security clearance requirements on my watch' after a leaked internal policy document outlined a series of measures aimed at boosting falling personnel numbers. MoD guidance states 'under no circumstances' must transgender troops use the facilities of their 'assigned gender' after transitioning. Pictured: File photo of Deepcut barracks in Surrey MoD figures show recruitment targets have been consistently missed in recent years He said: 'We want people from all backgrounds to serve in our military but some policies appear to be more about a political agenda than practically improving the lives of our dedicated soldiers and military personnel. 'There will certainly not be any lowering of security clearance requirements on my watch. 'And no-one should be offended by having religion as part of remembrance services. You don't have to be Christian to appreciate and respect the history and traditions of the United Kingdom.' Based on current trends, the army will have just 52,000 troops in 10 years - and in a one year period up to September last year, the army's strength plummeted from 79,139 to 75,983 as more soldiers left than started. This is the moment a thief snatched a large wad of cash from a woman using an ATM before fleeing from the scene in broad daylight in the middle of a busy shopping street. Footage captured a man loitering behind his victim before pushing in and grabbing the money at a Lloyds cashpoint just off Oxford Street in central London on Monday. But a Good Samaritan intervened and chased the robber from the scene, causing him to drop most of the cash which was then returned to the shopper. The theft occurred on Binney Street at around 12:20pm, with dozens of passersby in the vicinity. The woman, who was seen clutching a Selfridges bag, appeared somewhat confused as she stood at the cashpoint as the man, dressed all in black, stood behind her. Did YOU witness the incident? Email elizabeth.haigh@mailonline.co.uk The victim of the crime was approached by the man (left) before a passerby intervened (right) The passerby was then seen collecting the cash which was returned to the victim He then pushed in front of her and the pair appeared to exchange words before the man began jabbing at buttons on the ATM. As the money was dispensed, he is seen grabbing it before suddenly darting away up the street and shoving aside pedestrians. But as he had been standing at the cashpoint, a kind stranger appeared to realise something was amiss and approached the woman, before giving chase up the street after the thief. He appears to have caught him, causing him to drop most of the cash, as later footage shows him gathering up notes which had been dropped on the floor in a small nearby park. The brazen theft was reported to police. A spokesperson for the Met Police said: 'Police were called to Oxford Street at the junction of Binney Street, W1C at about 12:29pm on Monday, 19 February following reports of a robbery. 'It was alleged that a man pushed a woman before stealing cash she had withdrawn from a cash point at the location. The suspect ran off, dropping the money as he left. The man snatched the cash and then fled, knocking pedestrians out of his way as he did so The incident occurred at a Lloyds cashpoint on Binney Street at the junction with Oxford Street The thief pushed in front of the woman before grabbing the cash dispensed by the ATM 'The cash was returned to the victim by a member of staff from a local shop, who then reported the incident to police. 'An investigation has been launched and enquiries are ongoing to trace the victim.' The area around Oxford Street is a known hotspot for thieves, with a similarly daring crook attempting a theft just days ago. Video showed the woman catching up with her victim as she walked down a street near the shopping district. She then tried to unzip the woman's backpack to steal her purse and other valuables - but the shocked victim felt it and turned around, preventing the theft. It comes as the rate of pickpocketing in London rises, with Westminster the borough with the most recorded incidents in the past year. Westminster had a staggering 20,871, with Camden second at 5,301, and Southwark third at 4,287. Kensington & Chelsea came fourth on 2,962, Islington fifth with 2,820 and Harrington sixth on 3,160. Did YOU see the incident? Email elizabeth.haigh@mailonline.co.uk Grant Shapps is under pressure to explain a humiliating Trident nuclear missile test failure that saw the multi-million-pound weapons system go 'plop' in the ocean. The Royal Navy has confirmed 'an anomaly' occurred during an exercise involving HMS Vanguard off the Florida coast last month - when the Defence Secretary was aboard the ballistic missile submarine. The US-made Trident 2 - with a dummy warhead - successfully 'left the submarine', but its first stage boosters did not ignite and the 58-ton missile sack next to the vessel, The Sun reported. The incident marks the second failed launch in a row after a Trident missile launched from sister sub HMS Vengeance misfired during a test in 2016. It is the latest embarrassment for the UK's Armed Forces, which have been plagued by equipment failures and manpower problems for years. Earlier this month the Royal Navy flagship, the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth pulled out of a Nato exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. It followed similar problems with her sister ship HMS Prince of Wales two years ago, and previous engine problems which saw many of the Type 45 Daring Class destroyers stuck in harbour. There are also ongoing concerns over manpower shortages affecting the Royal Navy and the British Army. Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UKs deterrent operations.' Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile launched from HMS Vanguard (pictured) 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. Pictured: A test launch of a Trident nuclear missile (file photo) HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30 with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (pictured) reportedly onboard Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UKs deterrent operations.' But Lord West, the former First Sea Lord, told MailOnline that while the test failure was 'bloody embarrassing' the problem that caused it would not affect a real launch. 'We dont need to go overboard, the system still works perfectly. It is bloody embarrassing, let's face it,' he said. 'Every single bit on the submarine worked perfectly, thank goodness. We have just had a seven-year refit which was ridiculously long. That is good news because it shows that these old submarines, when refitted can still do the business. 'The problem has not affected the operation capability of Trident at all, it is related totally to the test firing.' Officials said they could not say any more because the incident relates to national security. But they said there remained 'absolute confidence' in Britain's constant at-sea nuclear deterrent and that it continues to be 'secure and effective'. HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also present at the time to mark what was the final exercise for Vanguard and its crew after undergoing a refit that took more than seven years, an MoD spokesman said. The Trident missile was expected to travel some 3,500 miles before splashing harmlessly into the Atlantic between West Africa and Brazil. But instead it landed next to the submarine. Britain's military crisis The trident test failure is the latest humiliation to hit the UK Armed Forces, with service chiefs and ministers facing major questions over Britain's ability to fight a major conflict. Aircraft carriers Earlier this month the Royal Navy flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth was pulled out of a Nato exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. She was due to set sail from Portsmouth to help lead the western military alliance's biggest exercise since the Cold War. But the 3.5billion, 65,000-ton ship was pulled out at the 11th hour after rust was discovered on the affected part leaving it at risk of it breaking down at sea. The Queen Elizabeth's sister carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, took its place. But it also faced similar problems, breaking down near the Isle of Wight after setting sail for America just 18 months ago also due to a faulty propeller shaft. There was also an embarrassment in 2021 when an F35 jet fell off the end of QE during an aborted take-off. Destroyers In 2016 it was revealed Britain's cutting-edge 1billion air defence warships broke down in the Persian Gulf because they were not designed for the heat. The six 8,000-ton Daring Class Type 45 Destroyers were built with engines which kept cutting out in the middle of the warm sea, leaving servicemen stranded for hours in total darkness. They underwent expensive refits which solved the problem, but in the intervening period they spent a lot of time tied up in Portsmouth. Two of the cutting-edge warships, HMS Dauntless and HMS Defender, did not go to sea at all during 2017 which was hailed by officials and ministers as 'the year of the Navy'. Soldiers Last month the outgoing head of the British Army said a citizens army might be needed in future because of cuts to full-time strength.General Sir Patrick Sanders, the outgoing Chief of the General Staff, said even that would be 'not enough' as he pointed to allies in eastern and northern Europe 'laying the foundations for national mobilisation'. In a speech today, the general - who has been openly critical of staff shortages in the military - said boosting Army numbers in preparation for a potential conflict would need to be a 'whole-of-nation undertaking'. But Downing Street later hit back at the suggestion, insisting there were no plans for conscription. Sailors Last month it was reported that a drastic shortage of sailors had forced the Royal Navy to decommission two of its warships early. Frigates HMS Westminster and HMS Argyll were allegedly retired so their crews could transfer to the service's new Type 26 ships. The news came as UK sailors were sent to the Red Sea to protect merchant vessels from Houthi rebels. The retirement of HMS Westminster would be controversial as it underwent expensive repairs in 2017 and only recently returned to service. Ajax A disastrous defence procurement programme has seen just 44 of an ordered 589 armoured fighting vehicles delivered to the MoD - a decade after bosses signed the 5.5bn contract. Over 4bn has so far been spent on the ill-fated Ajax project - 70 per cent of the contract cost - but just seven per cent of the vehicles have been accepted by the Army. The Mail has revealed a litany of errors with the 38-tonne machines, being built by defence contractor General Dynamics, with trials paused three years ago after troops suffered hearing loss due to excess noise and vibration. The machines also struggled to fire on the move and left troops feeling sick. Hundreds of personnel required medical assessment after taking part in trials of the vehicle, which was due to enter service in 2020. Advertisement The Sun reported that a dummy Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in its launch tube, but that its so-called first stage boosters did not ignite. HMS Vanguard was under the surface and hovering at launch depth during the test, but was not hit as the 44ft missile plunged into the water. The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. A probe has been ordered to determine the cause of the failure and a search will be carried out to recover the Trident 2 from the ocean. Details of the misfire are not being made public due to 'national security' matters. However, officials are 'confident' the incident was 'event specific' and that 'there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile'. A written ministerial statement on Britain's nuclear deterrent is expected to be laid in the House of Commons by Mr Shapps, according to Wednesday's order paper. The missiles are designed to blast to the edge of space and track their position against the stars, before re-entering the atmosphere (hence exoatmospheric), plummeting to earth and raining warheads down on its target. The maximum range of the missile is 12,000km (7,400 miles), which is roughly the distance from London to Indonesia one way, or Hawaii the other. The test was understood to be the final hurdle that the 4billion submarine must clear in order to re-enter service as part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force. Shadow defence secretary John Healey has now called for assurances, saying: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. 'The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' An MoD spokesperson said: 'HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. 'The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK's nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence. 'During the test an anomaly occurred. As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this, however we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile. The UK's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.' HMS Vanguard is one of four of the so-called Vanguard-class nuclear submarines that first went on patrol in 1994, with one of the vessels continually at sea. They carry the American-built Trident 2 D5 nuclear missiles, the mainstay of Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent. A Trident missile can be fired at targets up to 4,000 miles away and at its fastest can travel at more than 13,000 miles an hour, according to the Royal Navy. They are 13 metres long, weigh 130,000lb (58,500kg) and are ejected from the submarine by high-pressured gas before they fire as they reach the surface of the water. Each Vanguard-class submarine can hold up to 16 intercontinental ballistic missiles, but will only carry up to eight Trident rockets and up to 40 nuclear warheads. The V-class is due to be replaced by the bigger Dreadnought-class submarines in the 2030s. Between 31billion and 41billion has been set aside for the wider programme of replacing the Vanguard-class submarines, according to figures from the House of Commons Library. HMS Vanguard left Plymouth last year after its 500million overhaul, three years past the initial scheduled end-date. It was after a similar refurbishment that HMS Vengeance had a Trident missile misfire, which veered dangerously off course and self-destructed. Britain's then-Prime Minister was accused of covering up the incident ahead of a vote to decide whether or not to renew Britain's nuclear deterrent. The failed test is latest embarrassment for the Royal Navay, which earlier this month was branded a Royal Navy was branded a laughing stock after its flagship aircraft carrier was pulled out of a NATO exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. HMS Queen Elizabeth was due to set sail from Portsmouth to help lead the western military alliance's biggest exercise since the Cold War. But the 3.5billion, 65,000-ton ship was pulled out at the 11th hour after rust was discovered on the affected part leaving it at risk of it breaking down at sea. MPs, at the time, described the development as 'excruciatingly embarrassing'. The Queen Elizabeth's sister carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, broke down near the Isle of Wight after setting sail for America just 18 months ago also due to a faulty propeller shaft. Pictured: A trident missile test firing off Cape Canaveral, Florida from HMS Vanguard in October 2005 A team of Royal Navy service personnel in the control room of HMS Vigilant, one of Britain's nuclear subs, in January 2016 Crew from HMS Vengeance look out from the conning tower as they return along the Clyde river to the Faslane naval base near Glasgow, Scotland on December 4, 2006 The naval mishaps come at a time of high global tension, with rising fears that Britain and her allies could be pulled into a conflict in the coming years. 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. Leaked German intelligence documents suggest Berlin expects Russia to launch another wave of attacks to overwhelm Ukraine, and is scrambling to come up with contingency plans in the event Russian troops march westward from Belarus. The Israel-Hamas conflict threatens to spread violence across the Middle East, with Iran's so-called 'Axis of Resistance' - including Lebanon's Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels - increasing their attacks on Israel and commercial shipping routes, prompting the UK and US to launch a series of devastating strikes by air and sea. Further East, Taiwan's election of a new democracy-loving president has angered Beijing even further, with a Chinese invasion of the island nation in the coming years looking ever more likely. And all the while, Kim Jong Un stands by with his fist clenching the keys to North Korea's nuclear arsenal, ready to plunge his foes into radioactive winter. Police hackers left a taunting message telling criminals 'we may be in touch with you very soon, have a nice day' after locking a notorious ransomware gang out of their own website. The National Crime Agency known as 'Britain's FBI' and other international partners, broke into LockBit, which was used in a quarter of all ransomware attacks last year. On Monday evening, a message appeared on the Russia-based website stating it was 'now under control of law enforcement', with agencies posting a message directly addressing the hackers. 'We have the source code, details of the victims you have attacked, the amount of money extorted, the data stolen, chats and much, much more,' it read. 'We may be in touch with you very soon. Have a nice day.' Lockbit has been causing havoc by hacking into computer systems and stealing sensitive data which it then threatens to release unless the victims pay an extortionate ransom - with the group earning $120million (95m). The Russian-speaking hackers make money by selling their services to fellow crime gangs, with targets including Royal Mail, the NHS, Porton Down, a nuclear submarine base and hundreds of companies in the UK and abroad. On X, screenshots showed a control panel used by Lockbit's affiliates to launch attacks had been replaced with a message from law enforcement. 'We may be in touch with you very soon. Have a nice day,' it said Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev is one of five Russians charged over Lockbit, which has been described as the world's most dangerous ransomware gang Visitors to the Lockbit website now see a message saying it is 'under the control of law enforcement' The National Crime Agency called the group the 'Rolls-Royce' of ransomware and said it behaved like a 'legitimate businesses', with a 'slick, easy to use' website and marketing gimmicks including $1,000 for anyone who gets a tattoo of its logo. Seven suspects have been arrested so far and five people have been charged, including two Russians, Mikhail Vasiliev, who is being held in Canada, and Ruslan Magomedovich Astamirov, who is in the US. The remaining three - Artur Sungatov, Ivan Kondratyev and Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev - remain at large. The FBI is offering a $10million reward for information leading to the arrest of Matveev, who goes by the alias 'Wazawaka'' Visitors to its Lockbit's homepage on the dark web now see a message revealing it is 'under the control' of The National Crime Agency, which targeted the site as part of a taskforce of 10 countries that includes the FBI and Europol. What is ransomware? Cybercriminals mounting a ransomware attack first hack into a computer system before using 'blockers' to stop their victim accessing their device. This may include a message telling them this is due to 'illegal content' such as porn being identified on their device. Hackers then ask for a ransom to be paid, often in the form of Bitcoins or other untraceable cryptocurrencies, for the block to be removed. In Lockbit's case, the gang stole sensitive information and threatened to release it in public if no ransom was paid. In May 2017, a massive ransomware virus attack called WannaCry spread to the computer systems of hundreds of private companies and public organisations across the globe. Advertisement They said the 'permissive environment' in Russia allowed the group to operate - with gangsters never targeting nations in the former Soviet Union - but do not believe the the regime of Vladimir Putin was directly involved. Lockbit was recently revealed to have stolen secret military and defence material from the HMNB Clyde nuclear submarine base, the Porton Down chemical weapons lab and a GCHQ listening post. This was then shared on the dark web. Information about a specialist cyber defence site and some of Britain's high security prisons was also stolen in the raid on Zaun, which makes fences for maximum security sites. Lockbit also hacked the Royal Mail Group in January and made ransom demands of 66million at the time. The company did not pay the extortionate fee but saw its services disrupted and had to spend 10million on anti-ransomware software. It has also been linked to attacks on international law firm Allen and Overy and China's biggest bank, ICBC. Representatives from the NCA and FBI today confirmed that they had disrupted the gang and said the operation was 'ongoing and developing'. NCA Director General, Graeme Biggar, said Lockbit had been the 'most prolific' ransomware group in the last four years, responsible for 25 per cent of attacks in the last year. He told a press conference in London yesterday that there were at least 200 victims in the UK and thousands abroad, leading to billions of pounds worth of damages - both in ransom payments and the cost of responding to attacks. 'We have hacked the hackers, taken control of their infrastructure and seized their source code,' Mr Biggar said. 'We have arrested, indicted and sanctioned some of the perpetrators and gained intelligence on the criminals using the software - who we will now continue to pursue. 'As of today, Lockbit is effectively redundant - Lockbit has been locked out.' The NCA released a video revealing how the group operates The NCA has now seized Lockbit's site and is publishing information to aid victims Paul Foster, head of the NCA's national cybercrime unit, said that LockBit's popularity was partly because it was so easy to use. He said: 'LockBit had established itself as the preeminent ransomware strain over the last four years and one of the reasons for this was its intuitive platform and its relative ease of use. 'That means just with a few simple clicks even the less technically savvy cybercriminals used LockBit to deploy ransomware. 'Another key reason for their past criminal success was the marketing and branding that underpinned LockBit. They had a slick website and they had loyal customers. 'They ran a successful marketing campaign that included a promise to pay 1,000USD to anybody who had the LockBit logo tattooed on themselves.' Experts said that while LockBit may rebuild its network, the law enforcement action is a major setback. Five defendants have been charged so far for launching ransomware attacks using Lockbit, including two Russian nationals. Infrastructure supporting LockBit's tool that was used to steal data, known as StealBit, based in three countries, has been seized, together with 200 cryptocurrency accounts. There are more than 200 victims in the UK and thousands internationally. NCA investigators found that the gang behind the ransomware attacks did not always delete data when victims paid ransoms. It said it has found more than 1,000 decryption keys held by the group and will be contacting UK-based victims to help them recover encrypted data. Lockbit either carries out attacks for its own gain or is paid by so-called affiliates - made up of like-minded international gangsters. British police targeted the site as part of a taskforce of 10 countries that includes the FBI and Europol The gang accounted for 23 per cent of the nearly 4,000 attacks globally last year in which ransomware gangs posted data stolen from victims to extort payment, according to the cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks. The group was discovered in 2020 when its eponymous malicious software was found on Russian-language cybercrime forums, leading some security analysts to believe the gang is based in Russia. It has not professed support for any government, however, and no government has formally attributed it to a nation-state. On its now-defunct site, Lockbit said it was 'located in the Netherlands, completely apolitical and only interested in money'. Officials in the United States, where the group has hit more than 1,700 organisations in nearly every industry from financial services and food to schools, transportation and government departments, have described it as the world's top ransomware threat. READ MORE: Fears Russians are behind massive cyberattack that saw hackers access millions on electoral register Advertisement 'They are the Walmart of ransomware groups, they run it like a business that's what makes them different,' said Jon DiMaggio, chief security strategist at Analyst1, a US-based cybersecurity firm. 'They are arguably the biggest ransomware crew today.' In November last year, Lockbit published internal data from Boeing, one of the world's largest defence and space contractors. Lockbit said in a statement in Russian and shared on Tox, an encrypted messaging app, that the FBI hit its servers that run on the programming language PHP. The statement added that it has backup servers without PHP that 'are not touched'. The post named other international police organisations from France, Japan, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland and Germany. Before it was taken down, Lockbit's website displayed an ever-growing gallery of victim organisations that was updated nearly daily. Next to their names were digital clocks that showed the number of days left to the deadline given to each organisation to provide ransom payment. Yesterday, Lockbit's site displayed a similar countdown, but from the law enforcement agencies who hacked the hackers: 'Return here for more information at: 11:30 GMT on Tuesday 20th Feb.,' the post said. A previous Lockbit attack targeted Porton Down. Pictured is the Dstl high containment lab at the high-security facility in Wiltshire Don Smith, vice president of Secureworks, an arm of Dell Technologies (DELL.N), opens new tab, said Lockbit was the most prolific and dominant ransomware operator in a highly competitive underground market. 'To put the takedown into context, based on leak site data, Lockbit had a 25% share of the ransomware market. Their nearest rival was Blackcat at around 8.5%, and after that it really starts to fragment,' Smith said. 'Lockbit dwarfed all other groups and the action is highly significant.' The Lockbit attack on HMNB Clyde, Porton Down and GCHQ was revealed in September. MPs warned that any information which gives security information to the UK's enemies was of huge concern. A defence source said the hack was being taken 'very seriously' but it was not thought any information was stolen that presented a real threat to national security, and there were currently no ransom demands as the hacked data had already been published. The leak also included information about security equipment at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, where the MQ-9 Reaper attack drones squadron is based, and Cawdor Barracks, which has specialist electronic warfare regiments. And documents relating to high security prisons including Category A Long Lartin in Worcestershire and Whitemoor in Cambridgeshire were also stolen in the hack. Lockbit are thought to have been behind as many as 1,400 cyber-attacks globally and brought Japan's busiest cargo port to a shuddering halt in July after attacking the system that manages the movement of containers. Russian national Magomedovich Astamirov has been charged in the US for 'involvement in deploying numerous LockBit ransomware and other attacks in the US, Asia, Europe, and Africa'. And last year the US announced charges against Russian-Canadian Mikhail Vasiliev, who is being held in Canada awaiting extradition. Lockbit either carries out attacks for its own gain or is paid by other criminal gangs Another Russian, Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev, is wanted for alleged participation in other Lockbit attacks. Ransomware is the costliest and most disruptive form of cybercrime, crippling local governments, court systems, hospitals and schools as well as businesses. It is difficult to combat as most gangs are based in former Soviet states and out of reach of Western justice. Law enforcement agencies have scored some recent successes against ransomware gangs, most notably the FBI's operation against the Hive syndicate. But the criminals regroup and rebrand. The NCA has previously warned that ransomware remains one of the biggest cyber threats facing the UK, and urges people and organisations not to pay ransoms if they are targeted. Experts have said that LockBit may try to rebuild its operation but Chris Morgan, analyst from cyber security firm ReliaQuest, said the law enforcement action was 'a significant short-term blow'. But Sergey Shykevich, from Check Point Software Technologies' Threat Intelligence, warned the group could simply re-emerge under a new name. 'This latest action by UK and US authorities will be a major setback for their operations, and is likely to degrade their ability to recruit and retain affiliates,' he said. 'However, as we have seen in the past, ransomware gangs are notoriously resilient and may emerge under a different banner in the near future. 'The threat from this criminal gang and other ransomware groups will continue, and organisations must be constantly on their guard.' Residents in Notting Hill paid more in capital gains in 2020 than the cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle combined, a new study has found. A study where researchers had unprecedented access to the anonymised tax records has found that capital gains were 'absurdly concentrated' in a handful of postcodes and the most wealthy taxpayers. It discovered that less than three per cent of adults had paid capital gains tax over 10 years, with most living in the southeast of England. More than half (52.2 per cent) of the capital gains tax paid in 2020 came from just 5,000 people, who received an average of 6.8million per person in gains. The report also found that three in every seven pounds of gains in the UK go to people earning more than 150,000. Capital gains tax is the levy paid on profits made when an asset, such as a property or business, is sold. Residents in Notting Hill (pictured) paid more in capital gains in 2020 than the combined population of Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle, analysis shows The rate varies on the type of asset being sold and the income of the person selling it. From April, basic-rate taxpayers will need to pay 10 per cent on gains above 3,000 - but if they come from selling a second home or rental property, the rate will be 18 per cent. Higher-rate taxpayers have to pay 28 per cent on gains made on residential property and 20 per cent on other assets. Analysis by the University of Warwick and London School of Economics (LSE) found that just over 0.3 per cent of people who make under 50,000 had taxable gains in an average year, compared with almost 30 per cent of taxpayers with incomes over 5million receiving some gains. Gains are strongly concentrated in southern England, the study found, with more gains in Kensington, west London, than in all of Wales. In Kensington, people living in a small group of streets in Notting Hill, that are home to just 6,400 people, 'had as much in capital gains in 2015-2019 as Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle combined, highlighting the extent of hyper-local concentration within the capital'. A panoramic shot of Deansgate in Manchester The Liverpool waterfront skyline The Millennium Bridge in Newcastle-Gateshead The report found that there were even huge disparities in London. Someone living in Kensington is more than 50 times as likely to receive gains as someone in Barking, east London. LSE Professor Andy Summers, one of the co-authors of the study said: 'Although not common in the wider population, capital gains are a standard way to receive remuneration for the super-rich. This makes the tax break for capital gains particularly regressive.' Andrew Lonsdale, another LSE researcher, said: 'There are more capital gains in Kensington than the whole of Wales, and more in Hampstead and Kilburn than the North East of England. Continuing to tax these gains at a lower rate than earnings from work is the complete opposite of 'levelling up'.' And University of Warwick Professor Arun Advani said: 'Capital gains are absurdly concentrated, with half the gains in the entire country going to as many people as could fit in the Albert Hall. Less than one in thirty people have any gains at all over the course of a decade.' The Church of England has attacked Lyle's Golden Syrup over dropping the Christian references from packaging in its new rebrand, forcing the firm to apologise for any upset caused by the switch. For more than 150 years, the logo has been a picture of a dead lion being swarmed by bees, a reference to the biblical story Samson from the Old Testament. After Samson killed an aggressive lion, he noticed bees had formed a comb of honey in the carcass. He later turned this into a riddle: 'Out of the eater come forth meat and out of the strong came forth honey.' Lyle's Golden Syrup used the second half of the phrase on the original branding for the golden syrup. However, the modern branding now shows a lion's face up close with a single bee and it has removed the religious quote. The Church of England has now criticised the modern rebrand and questioned whether there is 'any place' for Christians in the UK. Golden Syrup's green and gold packaging has remained almost unchanged since the product first launched in 1881. It appears the brand's metal tins are retaining their traditional branding Sam Margrave, a member of the General Synod, the Church of England's legislative body, said he hopes that Lyle's Golden Syrup will 'rethink' the new logo The modern branding now shows a lion's face up close with a single bee and it has removed the religious quote Sam Margrave, a member of the General Synod, the Church of England's legislative body, told the Telegraph: 'There is nothing modern about ditching tradition or sidelining Christian messaging. 'I am sure the Lyle business doesn't mind benefiting from sales and Christian branding every Easter, so why do they feel the need to eradicate their connection with their Christian founder's iconic logo which tells a story that works for every generation? 'It does lead to the question, is there a place for Christians or Christian messaging in the UK anymore?' READ MORE: Lyle's Golden Syrup defends removing Christian inspired Lion logo from its famous golden syrup in rebrand to avoid offending Gen Z shoppers Advertisement Mr Margrave added that he hopes that Lyle's Golden Syrupwill 'rethink' the new logo. Andrea Williams, chief executive of Christian Concern told the newspaper that the company had 'traded the enduring appeal of their brand for a momentary fad'. The brand has apologised for any upset caused by the switch and is adamant that religion played 'no part' in the move. Gerald Mason, Senior Vice President of Tate & Lyle Sugars told the outlet: 'Religion played absolutely no part in our decision to try something different on our syrup bottles - a product format where we regularly use different approaches to our brands. 'It makes me sad that we might have unwittingly upset people today, and I want to apologise for that.' Abram Lyle had strong religious views, which is the reason why the logo depicts the story of Samson from the Old Testament. The rebrand will take place across the full product range, excluding the classic Lyles Golden Syrup tin, which will retain its heritage packaging. The iconic green tin and golden lion logo holds the Guinness World Record for the world's oldest unchanged brand packaging. The company has had the branding since 1883. Golden Syrup has controversially replaced its traditional logo on new 'squeezy' bottles The update will be rolled out to products this month and will continue throughout the year across retail and food service packs, including full-sized bottles, breakfast bottles, dessert toppings and golden syrup portions. Lyle's Golden Syrup previously hit back at criticism over its modern-day shift, adding that will 'refresh the brand's legacy to appeal to a 21st century audience' and help it to become a product regular on the family breakfast table. James Whiteley, Brand Director for Lyle's Golden Syrup, said: 'While we'll continue to honour our original branding with the heritage tin, consumers need to see brands moving with the times and meeting their current needs. 'Our fresh, contemporary design brings Lyle's into the modern day, appealing to the everyday British household while still feeling nostalgic and authentically Lyle's. 'We're confident that the fresh new design will make it easier for consumers to discover Lyle's as an affordable, everyday treat, while reestablishing the brand as the go-to syrup brand for the modern UK family, featuring the same delicious taste that makes you feel Absolutely Golden.' The product has been used in flapjacks, rocky road and sponge puddings since the Victorian era. Robert Bargery, Executive Director of the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust, told MailOnline: 'A successful brand with a solid reputation probably has more to lose than gain by going for a new logo. 'The redrawn lion is so stylised as to lack clarity at first glance, whereas the old lion is clearly a lion: it is what it looks like on the tin. 'But who knows, Golden Syrup may soon be as stigmatised as cigarettes, so the lively re-brand of a dead lion may excite a sugar-rush among the avocado-on-toast generation.' Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers has claimed outgoing Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll was 'taken advantage of' by some senior officers because she is a woman. Commissioner Carroll announced on Tuesday that she would be quitting her role as the state's top cop on March 1, after nearly five years in the top job. Mr Leavers said her efforts during her tenure were commendable and she had 'given her all' throughout her 41-year career in the police force. The state's 20th police commissioner decided to leave her job early after talk of a revolt from senior officers on the Gold Coast, reportedly as a result of how the QPS responds to youth crime. Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll announced her shock resignation from the top job this week READ MORE: Brisbane teen charged with 75 offences as police claim he boasted on social media about the alleged crime spree Advertisement 'Perhaps if she was a man, she wouldn't get the attention from these other senior police who won't do their job,' Mr Leavers told Channel Nine on Wednesday. 'Because she's a woman they're treating her with an absolute contempt and I think that's absolutely unfair on her part. 'Whoever is the commissioner of police has the ultimate authority and (those officers) need to do their job and do as they are told, like every other police officer in the state. 'There is a disconnect between senior management and the frontline police.' Mr Leavers claimed that some officers had 'just taken advantage' of Ms Carroll during her time as their boss. 'She is a very good-natured woman, she is a very caring woman and I just think they've just taken advantage of it,' Mr Leavers said. 'In previous times I don't think they would have had the open hostility towards her and they would have performed their role as they should.' He said he didn't believe sexism was entrenched in the service, but said some senior officers needed 'to get a grip' and start 'doing their job as they are told to' and reconnect with frontline officers. 'Because the frontline are the ones who are keeping Queenslanders safe as much as we possibly can with the restraints we have at times.' Commissioner Katarina Carroll announced she would be resigning earlier than expected after talk of a revolt from senior officers, reportedly due to the state's response over youth crime Ms Carroll confirmed on Tuesday that she had brought forward the meeting to discuss her contract renewal, which was due to expire in July, by two weeks. She said her decision to do so was to prevent her leadership being a 'distraction' after facing increasing pressure to resign after a Gold Coast police officer was stood down this month. The officer had been stood down from his duties after he claimed he helped catch armed offenders by authorising officers to ram a stolen car on the Gold Coast. The decision had led many police officers to threaten to walk off the job in support of their colleague, who they claim was just trying to keep the community safe. 'What happened with this heightened speculation and chatter, I just want the air to be clear because it is about the organisation doing remarkable work,' she said. 'I think that's what I want. I don't want the distraction for the QPS. 'I just want people to concentrate on what we've done, what we've achieved and what we intend to do.' The mother of Audrii Cunningham, the 11-year-old who was found dead in a Texas river on Tuesday night, nearly a week after she was reported missing, admitted in a tragic Facebook post that she had 'failed her daughter.' Cassie Matthews posted the message before her daughter's body was found in the Trinity River, around 10 miles from where the child lived with her father, grandparents and other family members. Police are preparing murder charges against 'family friend,' a Nazi tattoo having career criminal named Don Steven McDougal, who lives on her father's property in a trailer. McDougal had taken Cunningham to the bus stop in the past or would take her to school if she missed the bus, officials said. Matthews lashed out in her posting at online rumors that she lost custody of her daughter because of a failed drug test. The grieving mother said that was a rumor spread by her child's father. 'I'll make this clear one time and one time only, I failed my daughter by being bullied into submission by her fathers family and being made to believe she was in a safe, loving, and normal home with her father,' she wrote in a follow-up post. Cunningham's father, Joshua, pictured with the man accused of killing his daughter, Don Steven McDougal. The suspect's swastika and SS tattoos are clearly visible on his left arm Audriis family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston The girl's mother, Cassie Matthews, pleaded for help from the public during the six-day search for her daughter, and wept as she said the loss had her feeling 'empty' Pictured: A chilling mugshot of McDougal, the last person to see the youngster alive, according to police In other sometimes rambling Facebook posts, Matthews said she never 'chose drugs' over her child or that she took drugs in front of her. Matthews said that she has 'nothing to hide' as she accuses of people of 'spreading bulls***' online. 'The most important and only important thing to me is finding my daughter! I could give a fuck less what everyone thinks. What you think and your judgement isn't giving my daughter back.' Matthews references McDougal saying 'if your speculation was true I'd be sitting in the same boat as the man who has taken my baby from the family that loves her.' In a later message, Matthews reiterates that she never lost custody of her daughter. 'That is my daughter and I never lost any rights to her so as her parent Im going to involve myself in anything I please concerning my child! Im tired of all the bull**** and Im tired of being silent, scared, and once again bullied into submission by people I dont f***ing know,' she wrote. Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton has confirmed that charges of capital murder are being prepared against McDougal, 42, Sitton did not say if it will become a death penalty case. Lyons said there is 'substantial evidence' in the case, and that cell phone data and videos helped identify places to search. He added that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body. Audrii Cunningham's body was found Tuesday in the Trinity River near US-59, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons announced. 'My heart aches with this news and I express with my deepest sympathy and condolences to everyone who knew, who cared for, and loved Audrii,' Lyons said Sheriff Lyons said there is 'substantial evidence' in the case, and that cell phone data and videos helped identify places to search The sheriff also said that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body The search for little Audrii Cunningham lasted for five days before coming to a tragic end on Tuesday night McDougal had allegedly walked Audrii to school on the morning she vanished McDougal has a criminal history dating back to 2001 that includes convictions on two counts of enticement of a child Audrii sparked a state-wide search after she vanished early Thursday morning in Livington, around an hour north of Houston, when she didn't turn up for school As authorities investigated Audriis disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge Court records from Brazoria County, south of Houston, show McDougal pleaded no contest to two felony counts of enticing a child stemming from a 2007 incident and was sentenced to two years in prison. The sheriff said that the girls body has been taken to the Harris County medical examiners office in Houston to determine the cause of death. Audriis family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston. After she was reported missing, investigators discovered that she never got on the bus to go to school that morning. A backpack that authorities believe belonged to the child was found Friday near the dam on Lake Livingston, one of the states largest lakes. As authorities investigated Audriis disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge. When the search was still ongoing, the girl's mother pleaded for help from the public and said it was not like her daughter to just run off or disappear. 'We have no leads so we are grasping at any string, any signs, anything in general,' she told KPRC at the time. 'There is not one feeling you feel,' she explained. 'You are broken, you are mad, you are empty and right now I am empty. 'I am not going to be the same unless my baby is returned to me and neither is her family, any of us, any of her friends, any of the people that she has been connected to in the community.' The desperate search sparked fervent speculation online and drew in multiple law enforcement agencies, as a statewide Amber Alert was raised. Police began searching the wooded area near the young girl's home as she is a lover of wildlife and nature, her family said. It was determined shortly into the search that the disappearance was not an accident, as Lieutenant Craig Cummings said at a press conference that 'based on the evidence that we've got we understand foul play is a factor.' East Midlands Railway has apologised to customers travelling to Sheffield after days of 'appalling' queues at London St Pancras Station. Essential repairs to the Victorian rail line operated by LNER led to passengers flocking to use the East Midlands' route over the weekend and on Monday - with lines of people waiting up to the entrance of the station. And once on board, many people found conditions impossibly crowded and uncomfortable, with seat reservations cancelled. One woman described waiting for over two hours alongside her two children to get on board the train to South Yorkshire on Saturday, only to be left standing on a cramped service. She said: 'If I didn't have my children with me, I would have burst into tears. We got the escalator up to the platform and my heart sank when I saw how long the queue was. Consumer affairs expert Martin Lewis took to X, formerly Twitter, and said conditions were 'disgraceful' and 'degrading' People described all seats and standing spaces being occupied on the carriages with barely room for luggage Amelia Beckett tweeted: 'State of St Pancras right now. No trains to Lincoln, trains to Nottingham and Sheffield backed up the length of the station. Minimum 2 hour wait. Chaos.' Sam Lister wrote that there were over two hour queues to board a train to Sheffield at St Pancras Conditions on board the trains were described as uncomfortable and crowded, with every available standing position occupied One man shared this picture from the service, after spending 97 on a ticket from Sheffield Linsey Farnsworth described crowded condition at St Pancras waiting for a train, despite having a reservation 'We waited well over two hours just to get on and there was a huge line of people still waiting when our train took off.' Consumer affairs expert Martin Lewis took to X, formerly Twitter, and said conditions were just as bad on Monday afternoon. He told his 2.6million follows that all of the seats and standing spaces were taken, with just one working toilet on the train. Describing the service as 'disgraceful', he added: 'Scores [of people] are sitting in mid train corridors so I guess 500 people on it and only one working toilet at one end, so people must crawl over each 100s to reach it. 'It's degrading, like something from the 19th century.' East Midlands Railway said network upgrades had led to extra passengers. Others took to Twitter and voiced their discontent about conditions travelling with East Midlands Rail. Amelia Beckett tweeted: 'State of St Pancras right now. No trains to Lincoln, trains to Nottingham and Sheffield backed up the length of the station. Minimum 2 hour wait. Chaos.' Ben Lover wrote: 'Travelling with two young children from St Pancras to Sheffield, at 12.02pm - all seat reservations were cancelled. I asked a supervisor for help getting on the train, and was told to queue like everybody else. Now sitting on the floor for two and a half hours, if it runs on time. Unacceptable.' Mark Ellis added: 'Im very concerned about passenger safety due to the significant overcrowding. People are sat in isles and vestibules. God help anyone with a medical emergency!' Responding to Mr Lewis, An East Midlands Rail spokesman said: 'We are really sorry about your experience this afternoon. 'Vital infrastructure upgrades on the East Coast Mainline have resulted in a very large number of customers trying to travel with us rather than using the available rail replacement bus connections. 'We have strengthened services as much as possible and increased the number of staff to help manage this situation but clearly it has not worked as well as we would have liked, and we will work hard with the wider industry to learn from this.' London's famous BT Tower landmark will be turned into an 'iconic hotel' after the sale of the Grade-II listed building was agreed at 275m to an American company. The communications tower, which has served as point of reference for cab drivers for decades and a memorable mark on the skyline for tourists, in the Fitzrovia area of central London, was sold to MCR Hotels. The US hotel chain, which is the third largest hotel-owner-operator in the US, has a $5 billion portfolio - the equivalent of approximately 3.9 billion - of around 150 hotels, including the TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City. The tower, which is still fondly remembered for its revolving restaurant that attracted the biggest stars of its day, will be taking on a 'new purpose' in the rapidly progressing digital age in which the tower's function has been made increasingly redundant. BT Group says the remaining equipment in the tower, which are predominantly for media and broadcast services, as well as a telephone exchange at the site, will be moved in a complex and significant migration to an unconfirmed location over several years. The grade-II listed building was first opened by Prime Minister Harold Wilson in 1965 Payment for the sale will be made over multiple years, with final payment being made on completion of the purchase. The sale comes after BT Group sold its former headquarters in St Paul's for 210 million in 2019, moving to a new office in Aldgate. The building in St Paul's will eventually be occupied by HSBC following their departure from 8 Canada Square in Canary Wharf. The tower was originally commissioned by the General Post Office (GPO) - the historic state telecommunication service which was eventually disbanded in 1969 - and was formerly known as the Post Office Tower or GPO Tower. Famously, the tower has made several notable appearance in film and television, including The Bourne Ultimatum, Doctor Who, V for Vendetta, and Danger Mouse. But its most famous appearance was in 1971 when it was toppled by a giant kitten in an episode of The Goodies titled 'Kitten Kong', a parody of King Kong. Construction of the tower began in June 1961 and was officially opened in 1965 by Labour prime minister Harold Wilson, and remained the tallest structure in London at 177 metres until 1980, when it was overtaken by the NatWest Tower. The tower was officially taken over by BT group in 1984, with its top floor regularly hosting corporate and charity events. The communications tower has been noted for its unique cylindrical shape, which later featured a 360 degree coloured LED 'infoband' near the top of the tower, and was designated a Grade-II listing in 2003. The BT Tower Observatory is currently used to measure urban atmospheric pollution to help monitor air quality in the capital. The tower, which was designed by the architects Eric Bedford and G. R. Yeats, was created to relay the microwave signals from London to other parts of the country. During the first year the tower was open to the public, it was visited by nearly one million visitors, 105,000 of whom dined in the famous revolving restaurant. The cost of visiting the Tower was four shillings (20p) and half price for children. Despite being such a conspicuous landmark in London, the building was oddly an official state secret, and could only be referred to as 'Location 23'. Former Labour MP Kate Hoey, who now serves as a life peer, pointed out the contradiction in keeping the overtly visible tower a secret when she confirmed the existence and address of the tower in 1993, joking that she hoped parliamentary privilege would allow her to do so. Environment Secretary Michael Gove (left) and Health Secretary Matt Hancock at the BT Tower in London for the launch of an emissions air pollution strategy Philip Gorgio was the supervisor of the Tower's revolving restaurant in 1980, which later closed due to security fears The structure is still fondly remembered for its revolving restaurant that attracted the biggest stars of its day, including The Beatles , Muhammad Ali , Dusty Springfield and Tom Jones The tower is also fondly remembered for its two high-speed lifts, described as 'a miniature journey into space', which travel at a top speed of 15.7 mph and reach the top of the building in under 30 seconds. An Act of Parliament had to be passed specifically for the exciting feature, in order to allow the building to be evacuated during a fire by using the lifts - a protocol, which is usually forbidden. Andy Lowe, who visited the iconic tower in 1966 as a boy on a school trip, told the MailOnline that teachers had to prepare the children for the sheer speed of the lift that took them right up to the viewing platform, Describing the exhilarating experience, Mr Lowe said: 'I've never forgotten that feeling in my stomach as the lift seemed to take off at an incredible speed'. Sarah Fryer, who works at University College Hospital in nearby Euston, said that she loved to be able to see the BT Tower, with its famed 360 degree screen, from her workplace. Ms Fryer added: 'It's something I use as a guide when I go out walking at lunchtime and love the messages they post. I hope they keep that!' Another visitor with fond memories described sending paper airplanes as a child from the open top balcony all over London, with a friend, before 'we were caught and kicked out!' Tragically, the revolving restaurant was closed amid security fears after a bomb exploded in the men's toilet on the 31st floor Construction of the tower began in June 1961 and was officially opened in 1965 by Labour prime minister Harold Wilson The tower's most famous appearance was in 1971 when the it is toppled by a giant kitten in an episode of The Goodies titled 'Kitten Kong', a parody of King Kong The tower, which was designed by the architects Eric Bedford and G. R. Yeats, was designed to relay the microwave signals from London to other parts of the country The tower was originally commissioned by the General Post Office (GPO) - the historic state telecommunication service which was eventually disbanded in 1969 The devastating blast in 1971, caused by a bomb in the men's toilets, damaged buildings and cars up to 400 yards away Workers and officials inspected the damage caused to the Post Office Tower (now known as the BT Tower) following the bomb explosion on 31st October 1971 The tower remained the tallest structure in London at 177 metres until 1980, when it was overtaken by the NatWest Tower The communications tower has been noted for its unique cylindrical shape, which later featured a 360 degree coloured LED screen near the top of the tower There were rumours that the tower did not even appear on Ordnance Survey maps, but this has been debunked. In 1978, investigative journalist Duncan Campbell was tried for collecting information about secret locations. The judge ordered that the secret sites could not be identified by name. In 1966, an ingenious revolving restaurant which boasted panoramic views of the city was opened, drawing A-list stars including The Beatles and Muhammed Ali. The restaurant, which was located on the 34th floor, took 22 minutes to rotate fully, as high-flying diners were treated to gourmet menus and cocktails. Tragically, the restaurant was closed amid security fears after a bomb exploded in the men's toilet on the lowest floor of the public viewing galleries on 31 October 1971, with the devastating blast damaging buildings and cars up to 400 yards away. A warning was given about the probability of the explosion, and the building was swept for bombs but nothing was found. Sarah Fryer, who works at University College Hospital in nearby Euston, said that she loved to be able to see the BT Tower, with its famed 360 degree screen, from her workplace (pictured) Sarah added that she uses the tower as a guide when she goes out walking during her lunch break, enjoying the messages displayed on the building's 'infoband' (Pictured: Sarah's view of the tower during one of her lunchtime walks) In 1966, an ingenious revolving restaurant which boasted panoramic views of the city was opened, drawing A-list stars including The Beatles and Muhammed Ali During the first year the tower was open to the public, it was visited by nearly one million visitors, 105,000 of whom dined in the revolving restaurant The tower is also fondly remembered for its two high-speed lifts, described as 'a miniature journey into space' At the time, the General manager of the tower restaurant at the time, Guido Edwards, said: 'We have had about 100 hoax calls in the last five years. 'We inspected the cloakrooms and nooks and crannies and believed the restaurant was safe.' Members of the anarchist group, the Angry Brigade claimed responsibility for the blast, but a call was also made a person claiming to be be from the Kilburn Battalion of the IRA. Following the announcement of the BT Tower's impending plans to be repurposed as a hotel, fans have now been gathering to demand for the permanent return of the swanky eatery. However, in 2015, the revolving restaurant was re-opened for two weeks to a select number of competition winners in honour of the tower's golden anniversary. The 1,400 lucky winners were invited to dine at the establishment at the top of the 180-metre tower and were able to sample a set menu over the course of the two weeks. MCR Hotels currently owns around 150 hotels, including the historic landmark Eero Saarinen-designed TWA Hotel in New York City (pictured) Visitors attending the grand opening of the TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2019, found rooms that weren't ready, elevators that didn't work and exposed wires and construction People walk through the sleek lobby of the famous winged TWA terminal at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport The landmark Trans World Airlines Flight Center, which first opened in 1962, was transformed into the only on-site lodging at JFK in Queens, New York While the building sustained damage, it wasn't irreparable and unknown to the public, the tower was secretly designed to withstand a nuclear attack on London, and to serve as part of a military microwave communication network. Years later the tower withstood the 1987 hurricane which took the roof off the Old Bailey. Gradually, the mushroom-shaped dishes that stuck out like blisters on the tower's already skinny waistline were removed amid advances in fibre optic technology. And in an ever-progressing digital age, BT Group has been migrating services onto its cloud-based platform, no longer requiring the the services traditionally provided by the BT Tower. To this day, the BT Tower remains as iconic as ever, serving as an important site for broadcasters, production companies, advertisers, international satellite services. It is not yet clear what the hotel would look like, but legal advisors to BT Addleshaw Goddard LLP, warned that as a Grade-II listed site, 'there is not much that MCR will be able to change on the building'. The law firm 'suspects' that MCR Hotels would want to keep the iconic LED 'infoband' near the top of the tower, which has its own separate planning consent. As the tower is listed at Grade II any changes which could affect its character or special architectural and historic interest will require consent from Camden Council. A spokesperson from MCR Hotels said that is was early to comment on future design proposals and plans for the new hotel, but vowed that 'significant time' would be allocated to engage with local communities before any design proposals. A spokesperson from Historic England, a public body sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, in charge of designating grade listings, said: 'We're glad to hear a new owner is developing plans to open the celebrated 20th century London landmark to the public. 'The building was Grade II listed in 2003 in recognition of its innovative and iconic architecture. 'The BT Tower symbolises 1960s affluence, confidence and the space race. Its high speed lifts were described as 'a miniature journey into space' and the revolving rooftop restaurant resembled a satellite'. As the tower is listed at Grade II any changes which could affect its character or special architectural and historic interest will require consent from Camden Council To this day, the BT Tower remains as iconic as ever, serving as an important site for broadcasters, production companies, advertisers, international satellite services MCR owns and operates many of New York's best-known hotels, including The High Line Hotel, a former seminary, and the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, a reimagining of Eero Saarinen's 1962 landmark Flight Center. However, visitors attending the grand opening of the TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2019, found rooms that weren't ready, elevators that didn't work and exposed wires and construction. The landmark Trans World Airlines Flight Center, which first opened in 1962, was transformed into the only on-site lodging at JFK in Queens, New York, opening its doors to the public for the first time in 20 years. American travel industry analyst Jamie Larounis, who had a reservation at the hotel, spoke exclusively with DailyMail.com about his experience at the property. He said: 'They should never have opened the property today and that was their mistake'. Mr Larounis added: 'I've never really been to an opening night where it was in such shambles, this is a unique instance for me.' Tyler Morse, CEO and owner of MCR Hotels, said: 'We see many parallels between the TWA Hotel and the BT Tower'. He added: 'Both are world-renowned, groundbreaking pieces of architecture. It's been a privilege to adapt the TWA Flight Center into new use for future generations, as it will be the BT Tower.' BT confirmed that it consulted with government during the sale, and voluntarily sought approval for the deal, under the National Security and Investment Act. Brent Mathews, Property Director, BT Group said: 'The BT Tower sits at the heart of London and we've been immensely proud to be the owners of this important landmark since 1984. 'It's played a vital role in carrying the nation's calls, messages and TV signals, but increasingly we're delivering content and communication via other means. 'This deal with MCR will enable BT Tower to take on a new purpose, preserving this iconic building for decades to come.' Mr Morse added: 'We are proud to preserve this beloved building and will work to develop proposals to tell its story as an iconic hotel, opening its doors for generations to enjoy.' The mother of Nottingham stabbing victim Barnaby Webber has revealed police apologised after the Mail revealed how officers had shared graphic injury details on WhatsApp. A gross misconduct hearing was told the 'distasteful' information concerning victims Grace O'Malley Kumar and Barnaby, both 19, and school caretaker Ian Coates, 65, was sent into the group by an unidentified officer. The message was then forwarded by PC Matthew Gell to his wife and another person outside of the Nottinghamshire force, after the pair asked about the unfolding situation in Nottingham city centre last June. Barnaby's mother Emma Webber appeared on BBC Breakfast this morning - alongside her husband and son - and slammed those who shared and viewed the message. She said: 'The first thing to be really clear on is that we had no prior knowledge. The police did not tell us that this had happened. We found out about it from reading it in the media and then looked into it. It is abhorrent voyeurism. 'It is wrong and to any members of staff that did view or share anything - shame on them. Did they have children? Did they have a dad? Imagine how they might feel being us.' It comes as the families warned Valdo Calocane, 32, 'can't get away with it' amid a review of his 'unduly lenient' sentence to an indefinite hospital order. Barnaby's mother Emma Webber appeared on BBC Breakfast this morning with her husband and son by her side Valdo Calocane, 32, embarked on his killing spree in the early hours of June 13, 2023 Emma Webber told how the families of the victims had learned of the graphic details of the murder being shared through the media James Coates, son of victim Ian, told how Calocane 'can't get away with it' amid a review of his sentence (L-R) Barnaby webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar and Ian Coates all died after being stabbed to death by Valdo Calocane last year She added that the families received an apology via email over the incident: 'We have had clarification yesterday from the chief constable of the numbers involved and the investigation and an apology in an email for us not being told prior 'It's horrible, it's awful, it doesn't stop but sadly it doesn't really surprise us.' Paranoid schizophrenic Calocane was given a hospital order after a three-day hearing at Nottingham Crown Court last month. The mechanical engineering graduate knifed his three victims to death and mowed down three pedestrians all of whom survived but with serious injuries - during a city-wide rampage early on June 13. Calocane, who grew up in Pembrokeshire but was living in Nottingham, admitted three counts of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and three counts of attempted murder. Barnaby's mother Emma told Sky News today she burst into tears when she was informed of the referral Members of the victims' families met ministers at Downing Street last month to discuss Valdo Calocane's sentencing after they expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome Calocane embarked on his killing spree in the early hours of June 13 2023 after stalking the streets late at night CCTV gathered by police during their investigation found he travelled across Nottingham before attacking his victims Previously, Emma revealed that she broke down in tears after she learned that Calocane's sentence was to be reviewed. As the review gets underway, James Coates, son of victim Ian, said they have to accept Calocane's sentence of manslaughter with diminished responsibility but called for a 'prison element' to his order. He told Good Morning Britain: 'We can't change the decision, it is going to stay as manslaughter with diminished responsibility. 'That's something we have to deal with. it's a bitter pill to swallow. 'I feel that if he didn't go on this killing rampage and continued to go down the same roye he did with attacking and breaking into apartments while not taking his medication. 'He would have been sectioned and he would have got a hospital order which he would have then been seen to be fine after his medication and he would have been released. 'He is on the same path he would have been but he has got three killings and three attempted murders on top of that. 'I feel a prison element shows that he can be made accountable and responsible for his actions. They were brutal killings, he can't just get away with it.' PC Gell was handed a final written warning after being found guilty of gross misconduct last month. He had 'trawled' police systems for Calocane's custody records despite no real involvement in the investigation. Another ten police staff also accessed the file without good reason. The force said a second officer awaits a misconduct hearing, and a third has been sacked. The government said the attorney general's office received 'numerous' unduly lenient sentence (ULS) referrals after Calocane was sentenced on January 25. Grace O'Malley Kumar and Barnaby Webber pictured walking home from a night out - minutes before they were fatally stabbed by Valdo Calocane Grace O'Malley Kumar and Barnaby Webber pictured walking home from a night out - minutes before they were fatally stabbed by Valdo Calocane Calocane then killed Ian Coates and stole his van - using it to mow down three others in Nottingham, who all survived Police then cornered Calocane after being scrambled to find him - discharging a taser before arresting him and charging him with murder The van sitting behind a police cordon on June 13 after Calocane was arrested and taken away by police Under the ULS scheme, law officers can only consider the sentences for the offences of manslaughter for which Calocane was convicted under the deal struck with the Crown Prosecution Service in January. They cannot consider whether he should have been tried for murder, as the families of his victims had hoped. However, HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate has been asked to undertake an independent inspection of prosecutors' actions in Calocane's case. On Monday, it was announced that the families' request to widen the scope of the inspection to look at any interaction the killer had with the CPS, and not just matters related to events on 13 June 2023, would be granted. Calocane embarked on his killing spree in the early hours of June 13 2023 after spending hours prowling the streets before knifing Ms O'Malley-Kumar and Mr Webber as they walked home from a night out. He then stabbed Mr Coates to death an hour later before stealing his van, using it to run down three other people. Armed police were scrambled to stop him - eventually cornering him in Nottingham's Bentinck Road and shooting him with a Taser, charging him with three counts of murder and three of attempted murder. However, the case did not proceed to trial after prosecutors agreed to accept guilty pleas to reduced charges of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility after psychiatric reports found he was suffering a 'serious mental health' episode at the time of the attacks. The decision outraged Calocane's victims' families, who say they felt compelled to accept the decision and that Calocane had 'made a mockery' of the justice system. It later emerged that Calocane had been sectioned several times under the Mental Health Act - prompting questions as to why police didn't act sooner to take him off the streets. Attorney general Victoria Prentis (pictured) said the sentence handed to Calocane was 'unduly lenient' and would be referred to the Court of Appeal Armed police on the scene of Ilkeston Road on June 13 after Ms O'Malley Kumar and Mr Webber were found dead in the street The decision by prosecutors to accept reduced pleas of manslaughter was blasted by the families of Calocane's victims outside court after sentence was passed (above) Mr Justice Turner (pictured) sentenced Calocane to be detained in a secure hospital after three psychiatrists agreed the killer was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia Investigations are ongoing into the NHS Nottinghamshire Healthcare Foundation Trust, which treated Calocane's schizophrenia, the CPS and Nottingham and Leicestershire Police. The police watchdog is investigating Nottinghamshire Police over a string of potential failings relating to the case, including its contact with Calocane prior to the killings and complaints from victims' families over how the investigation was conducted. It is understood the complaints relate to a further revelation a failure to pursue toxicology testing Calocane refused to give blood and urine samples while no hair sample was taken - and erroneous information given to the families that Calocane had been a 'sofa surfer'. Mrs Webber has also accused police of having 'blood on their hands' after it emerged a warrant had been issued for Calocane's arrest nine months before the attack. Another force, Leicestershire Police, has also admitted officers failed to arrest Calocane following an assault on two colleagues five weeks before his rampage. Mr Justice Turner sentenced Calocane to be detained in a secure hospital, with a Restriction Order under sections 37 and 41 of the Mental Health Act after three psychiatrists agreed the defendant was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia which led to an abnormality of mental functioning and impaired his ability to exercise self-control. Keir Starmer is facing a fresh Gaza meltdown today after it emerged his efforts to paper over bitter divisions might be thwarted. The Labour leader had tried to prevent his MPs from backing an SNP motion demanding an 'immediate ceasefire' by tabling his own amendment, caveating that Hamas must hand back hostages and lay down weapons. However, that tactic could fail as the government has now put down its own change to the motion - with Speaker Lindsay Hoyle only likely to choose one version to put to a vote this afternoon. As a result Sir Keir might see his MPs join the SNP in the division lobbies even if he orders them to abstain, as many have been vocal in urging an immediate ceasefire. To add more heat to the situation, a significant pro-Palestinian protest is expected to take place in Westminster this afternoon. In a round of interviews this morning, shadow cabinet member Lisa Nandy said Labour was making representations to Sir Lindsay about what amendments would be selected. As it is an Opposition Day debate, the government will simply be able to ignore the result. Ms Nandy stressed that there are 'significant differences' between Labour's wording and the SNP's. 'We are clear that any ceasefire by definition must be two-sided, that Israel cant be expected to lay down its weapons if Hamas doesnt observe the terms of that ceasefire,' she said. Sir Keir Starmer's party had appeared to quell a potential backbench rebellion by laying down an amendment calling for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' ahead of a vote on a similar SNP motion But the Government last night tabled their own amendment, which only goes as far as to call for an 'immediate humanitarian pause' followed by a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire'. Pictured: Gaza City There is no limit to how many amendments can be selected by the Speaker, but typically he would only choose one to put to a vote. The Government's text only calls for an 'immediate humanitarian pause' followed by a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire'. In November, 56 Labour MPs defied Sir Keir to vote for the SNP's previous call for a ceasefire, with 10 frontbenchers quitting. Shadow foreign secretary David Lammy said yesterday that Labour had shifted its position because the situation in Gaza had 'evolved'. A party spokesman said: 'Our amendment calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, in line with our allies. 'We need the hostages released and returned. We need the fighting to stop now. We need a massive humanitarian aid programme for Gaza. 'And any military action in Rafah cannot go ahead.' The SNP has boasted that it 'inserted a backbone' in Labour with its device of an Opposition Day motion. The party's Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said: 'I welcome this long-overdue U-turn from Sir Keir Starmer who now appears to support the SNP's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. 'However, the plain truth is Sir Keir was forced into this position through public pressure and, in particular, by the SNP. 'It's telling that it took the SNP to insert a backbone into the Labour Party and act as Westminster's conscience on this conflict. 'Questions will naturally arise as to why it's taken Sir Keir so long to change his mind, what his long months of prevarication achieved, and whether he will reinstate the MPs he sacked in November for supporting the same position he finally holds too. 'Since Westminster rejected a ceasefire in November, more than 29,000 Palestinian children, women and men have been killed. It's vital MPs don't make the same mistake again.' There was also a mixed response from Labour MPs to the attempt to overwrite the SNP motion. 'Some MPs are still annoyed about the wording of the amendment, even though it calls for an immediate ceasefire,' one source said. 'But they'll vote for all of it - it's the best we're going to get.' Mish Rahman, who sits on the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party, said the motion was equivalent to 'playing politics with people's lives'. He added: 'The SNP motion is significantly stronger than Labour's mealy-mouthed watered-down version which ignores Israel's collective punishment of Palestinians. Starmer is trying to have his cake and eat it too.' Last night the SNP accused Labour of only doing the right thing after months of internal pressure. Pictured: A photo taken from southern Israel along the border with the Gaza strip The brother of late Russian dissident Alexei Navalny is allegedly facing unspecified new criminal charges as tensions ratchet up over the circumstances of Alexei's shock death last week. Oleg Navalny, currently in self-exile, has been added to Russia's 'wanted list' by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, according to Russian state-controlled media outlet TASS. It was not immediately clear on what legal basis the case against the 40-year-old had been opened, TASS announcing charges were filed 'without giving any details'. Oleg was already on the Ministry's wanted list in connection with another case, alleged to have violated Russia's Covid-19 lockdown restrictions by encouraging people to join his brother's antigovernmental protests. But the move to arrest him now comes at a sensitive time following protests across Europe over the sudden death of anti-corruption activist and opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a brutal Arctic penal colony on February 16. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny (R) with his brother Oleg (L) during a hearing at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg on November 15, 2018 Oleg Navalny, brother of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, is seen outside a hospital, where Alexei receives medical treatment in Omsk, Russia August 21, 2020 People hold placards as they attend a protest following the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, in Berlin, Germany, February 18, 2024 Alexei Navalny's sudden death in the IK-3 penal colony in Kharp last week has left many questions unanswered, sparking protests across Europe and prompting his supporters to reaffirm their commitment to continuing his anti-corruption activism. Navalny was reported to have died on Friday after collapsing suddenly following a walk. On Saturday, his mother and team journeyed to the camp, where they were told investigators were still trying to determine the cause of death. Lyudmila Navalnaya asked to see her son's body but was told it was in the nearby Salekhard morgue. They were later informed it had been moved, leading to suspicions Russia had hid Navalny's body to wait for traces of a nerve agent to disappear. Russian investigators claimed on Saturday Navalny had died from sudden adult death syndrome, but later said they would not hand over Navalny's body for 14 days while a 'chemical examination' takes place. Navalny was previously suspected to have been poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent in 2020 after falling suddenly ill when returning from investigating corruption in Siberia. For years he had worked with his brother Oleg to expose corruption in the Russian state and advocate for democratic reforms, battling repeated attempts to shut down their organisations and bring charges against them suspected to carry political motivations. In January 2021, Oleg received a one-year suspended sentence for his alleged incitement to protest during the Covid pandemic. Unauthorised protest is also, notably, illegal in Russia, prompting swift and harsh responses from Russian police. Oleg was banned from leaving his house at night, attending mass events and leaving Moscow as part of his sentence, before a correctional inspection submitted a request for him to be jailed. Before the decision was finalised in February 2022, Oleg had already fled Russia, according to Radio Free Europe. The request was later repealed, but nonetheless sparked outrage among supports of the Navalny brothers, judging it a targeted political attack. A month later, Alexei Navalny - already languishing in prison - was hit with a nine year sentence in a 'strict regime penal colony' after being found guilty of fraud and contempt of court. Prosecutors accused him of stealing $4.7m (3.5m) of donations given to clandestine organisations, including his anti-corruption foundation. The ruling was to replace his current sentence, meaning he would have to spend another seven years in a remote maximum-security prison, facing even harsher conditions than he had in Moscow after being jailed for allegedly violating parole conditions after being sent to Germany to be treated for Novichok poisoning. The nerve agent poisoning in 2020 implicated Russian officials in the eyes of western leaders as Alexei was returning from investigating corruption in Siberia. Oleg Navalny at the Omsk Ambulance Hospital No. 1, intensive care unit where Alexei Navalny was hospitalized in Omsk, Russia in 2020 after suffering Novichok nerve agent poisoning Members of Russian activist group Pussy Riot hold up a sign in front of the Russian Embassy in Berlin on February 18, 2024, following the shock death of opposition leader Navalny A woman holds a placard with a face painted in the color of blood during a protest in front of the Russian embassy in Berlin, Germany, Friday, February 16, 2024 He and his brother had already been targeted in 2014, both convicted of stealing about $500,000 from two Russian firms, one linked to French cosmetics company Yves Rocher, and the other allegedly laundering some of the money. Both denied the charges, claiming the case was politically motivated. Alexei was ultimately handed a suspended sentence while Oleg was only released in late June 2018, after serving the full term. The RAF should regain its nuclear deterrent role after a botched submarine test saw a Trident missile misfire and 'plop' back into the sea, a former air force chief has said. Air Marshal Greg Bagwell, the RAF's former Deputy Commander, warned Britain had 'all its eggs in one basket' with its submarine-based nuclear deterrent. The senior chief's message comes after a second failed test of the nation's Trident missile raised fears about the reliability of the critical 21billion nuclear attack system. A former head of the Royal Navy today insisted the costly weapons platform was still 'functioning' and could 'wipe out cities 7,000 miles away'. But the gaffe is the latest in a string of problems to hit the military after a mechanical fault put Britain's 3.5billion flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, out of action earlier this month. While the Army's troubled Ajax programme has left soldiers testing the new armoured kit with hearing loss, in a defence drive that has cost more than 4billion but has only delivered 44 of the 589 vehicles promised. All of this comes at a time when the Armed Forces continues to battle a manpower crisis, amid fears the UK could be on the cusp of bringing back conscription as the fighting in Ukraine and the Middle East threatens to boil over. Reacting to the submarine launch blunder, Air Marshal Bagwell wrote on X: 'The failure of a test firing is never a good outcome for maintaining the credibility of the deterrent. Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile launched from HMS Vanguard (pictured) 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. Pictured: A test launch of a Trident nuclear missile (file photo) Air Marshal Greg Bagwell, the RAF's former Deputy Commander, warned Britain had 'all its eggs in one basket' with its submarine-based nuclear deterrent. 'Single failures aside, our "eggs" are most definitely in one basket. The RAF ceased its nuclear role in 1998; perhaps it is time to consider bringing back an additional option?' But the defence chief's comments have been branded 'naive' by a British Army Colonel and former spymaster, who scoffed at the idea the RAF could take on the role. Philip Ingram, who served in British military intelligence, insisted the Navy was still the best option for Britain's nuclear deterrence, despite the latest error. Speaking to MailOnline, the veteran commander added: 'The RAF can't man all the fighter jets it has got at the moment. Therefore it can't provide enough fighter bombers for this sort of task. 'To try and suggest the RAF would want to spend huge amounts of money to recreate nuclear deterrence that would bleed the rest of the RAF dry, is extremely naive. I'm surprised a senior officer has made such a statement.' The RAF had primary control of Britain's nuclear deterrent during the 1950s and 1960s through its V-Force bomber unit. However, since 1969, the Royal Navy has had at least one submarine armed with nuclear weapons silently patrolling the globe. The air force remained a key part of the UK's nuclear deterrent up until 1998 when it was stood down following the introduction of Trident, which led to the Navy taking sole charge of the defensive mission. The latest test-firing blunder is the second failed launch in a row after a Trident missile launched from sister sub HMS Vengeance misfired during a test in 2016. Retired Air Marshal Bagwell said military chiefs should 'consider bring back' the RAF's nuclear deterrent mission role in a comment on X (formerly Twitter) A team of Royal Navy service personnel in the control room of HMS Vigilant, one of Britain's nuclear subs, in January 2016 The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed an 'anomaly occurred' during an exercise on January 30 onboard the nuclear-powered sub HMS Vanguard. The Trident 2 successfully 'left the submarine', but its first stage boosters failed to ignite and the 58-ton missile fell into the water next to the boat and sank. Despite the errors, a retired head of the Royal Navy has insisted Britain still had the ability to launch 'devastating' nuclear missiles and 'wipe out cities 7,000 miles away'. Admiral Lord Alan West, who now sits on the Intelligence and Security Committee in Parliament, has seen classified briefings about the dramatic launch. Speaking to MailOnline, the Cold War commander said he was initially 'extremely worried' when he heard about the failure. But after seeing the secret documents outlining how the problem occurred, the naval chief insisted he was not concerned. 'Of course it looks embarrassing but it's not at all,' Lord West told MailOnline. 'I've had the full briefing of what happened. The system and capability of the live system is still there. It's still a functioning deterrent that can wipe out cities 7,000 miles away. 'There's no doubt at all that the system is working and functioning properly with devastating effect with huge range and security. Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile launched from HMS Vanguard (pictured) 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged 'It's always an embarrassment when something like this goes wrong but I have no doubt that the system is functioning properly - and I have no doubt that Vladimir Putin understands that as well.' While Ryan Ramsey, the former captain of nuclear attack submarine HMS Turbulent, insisted Britain's nuclear deterrence was still 'as credible as ever' and that a misfiring test missile was not indicative of a weakness in the nation's defensive capabilities. The Navy veteran told MailOnline: 'The fact is at no point would you ever fire just one missile. 'Deterrence works on the principle of mutually assured destruction. That doesnt happen with one missile - it happens with many. 'Even if one did fail... the others would get through. The deterrence remains as credible as ever.' HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30 with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (pictured) reportedly onboard HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was on-board the 150 metre vessel at the time of the incident, reported The Sun. Officials said they could not say any more because the incident relates to national security. But they said there remained 'absolute confidence' in Britain's constant at-sea nuclear deterrent and that it continues to be 'secure and effective'. Labour has now called for assurances over the effectiveness of Britain's nuclear deterrent after 'concerning' reports about the test failure. The Trident missile was expected to travel some 3,500 miles before splashing into the Atlantic Ocean, somewhere between West Africa and Brazil. But instead it landed next to the submarine. A still image taken from video of the missile firing from HMS Vigilant, which fired an unarmed Trident II (D5) ballistic missile. Crew from HMS Vengeance look out from the conning tower as they return along the Clyde river to the Faslane naval base near Glasgow, Scotland on December 4, 2006 The Sun reported that a dummy Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in its launch tube, but that its so-called first stage boosters did not ignite. HMS Vanguard was under the surface and hovering at launch depth during the test, but was not hit as the 44ft missile plunged into the water. The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. A probe has been ordered to determine the cause of the failure and a search will be carried out to recover the Trident 2 from the ocean. Details of the misfire are not being made public due to 'national security' matters. However, officials are 'confident' the incident was 'event specific' and that 'there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile'. A written ministerial statement on Britain's nuclear deterrent is expected to be laid in the House of Commons by Mr Shapps, according to Wednesday's order paper. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also present at the time to mark what was the final exercise for Vanguard and its crew after undergoing a refit that took more than seven years, an MoD spokesman said. Speaking of the latest Trident test-firing gaffe, Col Ingram added: 'The Royal Navy doesn't get many opportunities to test fire its Trident missiles and for this to be the second missile failure or launch failure in a row is slightly more than embarrassing. 'But there is a danger we read too much into this. The processes and procedures on the submarine all seem to have worked but the missile when ejected from the launch tube failed. 'That's a technical issue for Lockhead Martin not for the Royal Navy. That's why I think the MoD is being quite robust saying it's an anomaly.' The missiles are designed to blast to the edge of space and track their position against the stars, before re-entering the atmosphere, plummeting to earth and raining warheads down on its target. The maximum range of the missile is 12,000km (7,400 miles), which is roughly the distance from London to Indonesia one way, or Hawaii the other. The test was understood to be the final hurdle that the 4billion submarine must clear in order to re-enter service as part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force. Pictured: A trident missile test firing off Cape Canaveral, Florida from HMS Vanguard in October 2005 Labour's Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey has now called for assurances, saying: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. 'The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' An MoD spokesperson said: 'HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. 'The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK's nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence. 'During the test an anomaly occurred. As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this, however we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile. The UK's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.' The reporter learned from the Anhui Provincial Department of Transportation and the Anhui Transportation Holding Group, during the Spring Festival holiday, the traffic volume entering and exiting the provincial highway network was about 38.74 million vehicles, with a daily average traffic volume of about 4.84 million vehicles, an increase of about 45% compared to 2023. Among them, on February 17th (the eighth day of the first lunar month), the vehicle flow exceeded 5.85 million, setting a new historical record. Anhui's highway network connects the north and south, and extends from east to west, serving as an important passage connecting the central and western regions with the Yangtze River Delta. During the Spring Festival period, the overall smoothness rate of the provincial highway network was around 96%, and there were no long-distance, large-scale, or prolonged road congestions during the holiday. Some sections, such as the G40 Shanghai-Shaanxi Expressway Hefei-Lu'an-Yeji and Hefei-Nanjing sections, the G42 Shanghai-Chengdu Expressway Lu'an-Wuhan section, the G4221 Shanghai-Wuhan Expressway Wuwei-Yuexi section, and the G3 Beijing-Taipei Expressway Hefei-Anqing section, occasionally experienced slow-moving traffic, but the number of slow-moving spots, duration, and distance decreased significantly compared to previous years. During the Spring Festival period, the Anhui Transportation Holding Group conducted a total of 4,065 vehicle rescue services on various road sections, averaging 451 rescue tasks per day. The rescue radius was reduced from 50 kilometers to 20 kilometers. Approximately 18 rescue tasks were carried out per hour, with an average response time of 9 minutes and an average handling time of 13 minutes. The satisfaction rate of the rescue services reached 99.49%. Currently, there are 9 intelligent toll stations operating across the province, with vehicle passage efficiency improved by over 85%, achieving a vehicle speed of 60 km/h. A total of 243 dedicated lanes for small vehicles have been established, and the opening rate of toll stations during peak traffic hours reached 100%. During the Chinese New Year period, service areas provided free New Year's Eve dinner for drivers and passengers, offered 24-hour hot water, set up additional temporary public toilets, installed shower facilities in 40 pairs of service areas, ensured parking for over 6.6 million vehicles, generated sales of self-produced Anhui agricultural products totaling 2.167 million yuan, and served approximately 19.7 million passengers, representing a year-on-year increase of 117%. Service area gas stations served over 2.1 million vehicles, supplying 56,000 tons of finished oil. The 96566 hotline received 29,216 service requests and resolved 280 user complaints. Source: anhuinews.com Comedy fans are mourning The Office star Ewen MacIntosh after his death at 50 - while recalling how he provided many of the hit comedy show's most iconic scenes. MacIntosh's deadpan accounts worker Keith Bishop was one of the most memorable characters in the series created and written by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Tributes have today been pouring in for the man dubbed a 'beloved comedy genius', best known for his performances in The Office while also appearing in other popular comedies such as Little Britain, Miranda and After Life. His Office highlights included dispending words of wisdom to Martin Freeman's character Tim and Lucy Davis's Dawn while munching Scotch eggs, wrecking attempts at an appraisal by Gervais's David Brent and dressing up as Ali G. Here, MailOnline looks back on some of the Keith scenes cherished by fans... Tributes have been paid to The Office star Ewen MacIntosh after his death at the age of 50 Spoof docuseries The Office, co-created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, ran for two series and two Christmas specials following a team from paper firm Wernham Hogg Job appraisal After paying tribute on X, formerly Twitter, to Ewen MacIntosh, The Office's co-creator Ricky Gervais then posted a photo of a prize awarded in 2002 for 'Comedy Moment of the Year'. He wrote: 'This was for Keith's appraisal scene.' It has been described by viewers as Keith's most 'iconic' moment in the show, as his nonchalant accounts department worker frustrates Gervais as manager David Brent in attempts to carry out a job appraisal. Under strengths, Keith has merely written 'accounts' - prompting Brent to respond: 'That's your job, though. I was sort of looking for skills within the job.' It is then revealed that under 'weaknesses', Keith has just written 'eczema' and has failed to fill out anything in the Q&A section. When questions are then put to him, he responds each time with 'Don't know'. When asked, 'If "Don't know" wasn't there, what would you put?', he responds with, 'What are the options?', before going with 'Very much so'. He then admits he can't even remember the question, prompting an exasperated Brent to conclude: 'We're going to leave that there.' Ricky Gervais's character David Brent comes close to losing his temper when frustrated by Ewen MacIntosh as Keith providing deadpan answers in an appraisal meeting Keith's appraisal scene in the second episode of The Office's second series won an award for being the best TV comedy moment of 2002 Ricky Gervais posted a picture of the prize on X, formerly Twitter, after paying tribute to Ewen MacIntosh as 'very funny and very lovely' as well as an 'absolute original' Ali Keith Ricky Gervais previously worked on Channel 4's satirical The 11 O'Clock Show which also introduced viewers to Sacha Baron Cohen's Ali G. But it was Keith who arrived dressed as the spoof Staines rapper in episode five of The Office's second series, as part of Comic Relief Day dressing up efforts. Keith does not appear too enthused to be taking part in the fun - though his expressionless tone is in keeping with his character, whatever he's wearing. It takes urging from Gervais as his boss David Brent for Keith to reluctantly turn to the camera and flatly deliver one of Ali G's catchphrases, 'Booyakasha, before a more jubilant Brent declares: 'That's the accountant! And this is his boss encouraging it!' Ali G, or 'Ali Keith', was the look for Ewen MacIntosh's character in a second series episode Scotch eggs Keith's love of Scotch eggs played a recurring part, as he tucked in while dispensing jarring words of supposed wisdom in paper firm Wernham Hogg's break room. In one scene he preaches ominously to receptionist Dawn Tinsley ahead of her move to the US with fiance Lee, advising her on transatlantic vocab differences. Keith gives her a 'word of warning' that Americans call bum bags 'fanny packs' instead, then slowly explains that 'fanny means your a*** over there - not your m****' before taking what seems a meaningful chomp out of his Scotch egg. He is also tucking in when constantly wrongfooting Martin Freeman's Tim Canterbury character with a description of what he did the previous night. Keith tells Tim about watching ITV hospital drama Peak Practice, pointing out it was a 'bloody repeat' - but when told that must be 'annoying', he replies: 'Not for me, I hadn't seen it.' MacIntosh's character goes on to add: 'Boring, isnt it? Just staying in watchingPeak Practice with your life. Not for me, I like it.' Out-takes included on the show's DVD boxset and also uploaded online reveal how long it took the pair to film the scene, with Freeman repeatedly cracking up in laughter at his colleague's delivery. On the decks Before donning his Ali G outfit in the second series, Keith took on DJ duties in the final episode of the first by taking control of the decks for a work party. He attempts to rally crowds on the dancefloor by saying, 'It's the end of the financial year and spirits are in the sky' as he lines up Norman Greenbaum's Spirit In The Sky. Yet the dancefloor remains empty, with colleagues fretting instead about whether their Slough branch will be forced to transfer over to the firm's Swindon office - and the threat of redundancies. MacIntosh himself would later appear at real-life nightclubs, corporate events and private parties where he would act as DJ - sometimes appearing in his Ali G outfit. Keith took control of the dancefloor decks in the first series' fifth episode Love advice Keith might seem an unlikely office lothario but he doled out advice to Martin Freeman's lovelorn Tim who spent much of the show pining over receptionist Dawn. In one of their break room chats, Keith startles Tim by opening a conversation by asking out of the blue: 'So what are you doing, just thinking about Dawn?' He goes on to remind Tim of previously asking her out in vain twice, saying: 'I hope you don't embarrass yourself again with her.' Their chat comes after learning Dawn and fiance Lee were returning from their new home in the US for an office Christmas party, in one of two 2003 festive specials. Keith adds: 'Word of warning, though - if you're not planning to try and nail Dawn for a third time while she's back, you heard what she said. 'She's going back the day after the party so you've not got long if you want to try.' His hand gesture makes clear what he means, before Tim sarcastically dubs him 'an expert with the ladies' - something to which Keith nods approvingly. He then explains his own approach to romance and sex, saying: 'I always make sure the woman hears the right thing. 'I very tenderly explain to them that I will guarantee them at least one orgasm.' This is followed, in familiar Keith fashion, by another munch on a Scotch egg. Ewen MacIntosh appeared in all 14 episodes of the original UK version of The Office as Keith Hamas terrorists raped and mutilated Israeli civilians, leaving an 'apocalypse of bodies' which were missing limbs at the site of the Nova music festival as gunmen swept through southern Israel on October 7, a harrowing new report has claimed. The horrific report details 'sadistic' crimes alleged to have occurred at the festival, in surrounding villages, on IDF bases and in captivity in Gaza. It describes the violence endured by men and women, some of whom were allegedly killed while they were being brutalised, as others were made to watch the sexual abuse of their friends and family members before being murdered. The chilling report from the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel was presented to the UN Special Envoy on Sexual Violence in Conflict Areas, who visited Israel earlier this month to hear testimonies of sexual abuse. An overview of the findings states: 'Hamas terrorists employed sadistic practices aimed at intensifying the degree of humiliation and terror inherent in sexual violence. 'Many of the bodies of sexual crime victims were found bound and shackled. 'The genitals of both women and men were brutally mutilated, and sometimes weapons were inserted into them. The terrorists did not stop at shooting, they also cut and mutilated sexual organs and other body parts with knives.' The testimonies included claims Hamas gunmen repeatedly stabbed an injured woman while they raped her; that victims had nails, grenades and knives inserted into their sexual organs; and how survivors fleeing the festival witnessed 'girls whose pelvises were simply broken from being raped so much'. An Israeli soldier stands over the body of a Hamas militant in Kibbutz Be'eri on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 A kindergarten in Kibbutz Be'eri, which shows signs of clashes from the October 7 attacks The kindergarten in Be'eri which appeared to be a site of clashes when Hamas gunmen swept the kibbutz on October 7 The report concluded Hamas insurgents operated systematically to target both women and men in villages and kibbutzim during the assault, executing victims during or after instigating sexual abuse. Orit Sulitzeanu, CEO of ARCCI, claimed partners, family and friends were forced to watch horrific acts performed often in groups to 'increase the pain and humiliation for all present'. The ARCCI report, looking at documented cases of abuse on and since October 7, concluded that Hamas' attack 'included violent acts of rape, accompanied by threats with weapons, and in some cases targeted towards injured women'. The authors noted that rape was 'often' perpetrated in front of an audience, including partners, families or friends, in order to 'increase the pain and humiliation of all present'. Young men and women fleeing the Nova festival were 'hunted' and dragged by their hair, screaming, according to witness testimonies. In most cases, they were killed after or during their rape. One survivor of the Nova festival said the aftermath was an 'apocalypse of bodies, girls without clothes, some missing their upper, some their lower parts'. The mutilation of bodies has been documented before. The report made reference to the story of a woman at the festival whose breast was cut off with a box cutter before her assailants threw it on the floor 'and passed it between them like a toy'. Another described fleeing the site and seeing a woman lying on her stomach near the road without pants or underwear, her legs apart. Her genitalia was described as looking 'as if someone tore her apart'. Another survivor said they saw women tied to trees, mutilated with 'all their organs cut, damaged' and 'iron rods inserted into their sexual organs'. Yoni Saadon, a survivor who witnessed the rape of a young woman enduring severe violence, recounted a victim crying out: 'Stop it - already I'm going to die anyway from what you are doing, just kill me!' The witness said 'when they finished they were laughing and the last one shot her in the head'. One witness said she saw a young woman with a back injury, her trousers pulled down below her knees, being raped by one terrorist as another 'pulled from her hair'. 'Each time the woman resisted, the terrorist stabbed her in the back.' In another case, she said she saw how while one terrorist was raping a woman, another cut into her and mutilated her body. Raz Cohen and Shoham Gueta, survivors who hid from Hamas at the festival, said they saw terrorists raping a young woman as they stabbed her repeatedly, 'literally butchering her'. Multiple witnesses reported seeing men who had been shot in the genitalia, or had sexual organs 'cut off'. A paramedic attending the scene said: 'There were a lot of gun wounds there. Shooting was targeted at sexual organs. We saw that a lot. They had a thing with sexual organs'. ARCCI also reported how family members, partners and friends in raided homes were forced to watch sexual abuse before their murders. The positions bodies were found in indicated some had been made to watch the abuse and murder of their partners, the report suggested. The authors said there was a 'pattern' that 'emerged clearly' in testimonies. In one case, a mother's body was found by search and rescue teams, her hands tied behind her back with signs of struggle. The body of her daughter, a girl or young woman, was found in the next room with her pants and underwear rolled down. An IDF paramedic recovered the bodies of two girls from another building, one found sexually abused with a knife in her genitals. They said one of the girls was found with the remains of semen on her back. Members of the Israeli military stand at the site of the Nova festival, where people were killed and kidnapped during the October 7 attack by Hamas gunmen from Gaza, January 5 2024 A woman reacts during a press conference at the Nova music festival site on January 5, 2024 in Re'im, Israel Illustrative image shows attendees fleeing the scene of the Supernova music festival near Re'im in Israel on October 7. ARCCI said Hamas systematically targeted attendants at the event ARCCI is the umbrella group for the nine regional Rape Crisis Centers of Israel, and serves as the only organisation in the country whose main aim is to combat sexual violence. The group is funded by donations. The group ordinarily provides services and support for individual victims of sexual violence while working to raise awareness more generally in local communities. It also works closely with the professional bodies that deal with sexual violence, including the States Attorney, the Israel Police, the Department of Justice, and the Police Investigations Department. In its report, it said it had drawn on official sources, publications in local and international press, interviews with first responders, and information from professionals and confidential calls to ARCCI. Information from social networks of 'unverified sources' was not included, the report noted. Alleged sexual assaults have been reported by several eye-witnesses and first-responders of the October 7 attacks. In kibbutzim, women and girls were first alleged to have been attacked by Hamas gunmen during their assault. In one case it was reported a knife had been hidden in the genitals of a victim. Soldiers on IDF bases were also reported victims of sexual violence, as well as hostages returning from captivity. In December, images shown to the New York Times showed what Israeli authorities said was a woman who had dozens of nails driven into her thighs and genitals in a savage example of mutilation. Other clips displayed the corpses of soldiers and civilians alike who had been either shot or stabbed in the groin. Another dark image dubbed 'the woman in the black dress' showed the corpse of an Israeli later identified as Gal Abdush. She is seen splayed on the floor, legs wrenched apart with her vagina exposed, and covered in burns. Her lifeless body was crumpled in the dirt next to the husk of a heavily damaged car riddled with bullet holes. Earlier that month, as hostages returned from captivity in Gaza, it was reported at least ten male and female hostages held by Hamas had been sexually abused before being freed. A medic claimed men and women had been physically abused while held hostage, after treating some of the 110 released as part of a week-long truce in late November. 'They touch girls, and everyone knows it,' one hostage later told local media. 'I won't recount details, but we had a procedure that no one moves without someone guarding them.' Yelena Trufanov, a Russian citizen released separately in a nod to Vladimir Putin, described her fears as Israeli airstrikes rained down on the besieged enclave. 'You have no idea what you're doing there... and I know the conditions they're holding the men in are worse, worse than for the women.' In November, Israeli police said they were investigating 'several cases' of alleged sexual violence against women by Hamas, citing 'multiple witnesses' to incidents of rape. Police said they had been gathering evidence about allegations of sexual violence from witnesses, surveillance footage and the interrogations of Palestinians arrested since Hamas' incursion into Israel last month. Police also shared testimony from a survivor of the attack at the Supernova music festival, who described seeing a woman gang-raped before being shot. Haaretz reports the witness told officers of how she watched the shocking attack unfold as she hid from Hamas gunmen wearing military uniforms. 'As I am hiding, I see in the corner of my eye that [a terrorist] is raping her,' the witness told investigators. 'They bent her over and I realised they were raping her and simply passing her on to the next [gunman].' The witness said the victim was 'alive' and 'on her feet and bleeding from her back. But then the situation was that he was pulling her hair. She had long, brown hair.' The woman told officers one of the Hamas gunmen 'shot her in the head while he was raping her... didn't even lift his pants'. Her testimony was one of thousands of pieces of evidence gathered by the police. Another male witness said he didn't see the rape itself, but confirmed the other witness told him at the time what she had seen. David Katz, head of the Lahav 443 criminal investigation unit, said: 'We have no living victims who said "we have been raped"', but, he said, 'we have multiple witnesses for several cases'. While he did not give a precise figure for the number of cases under investigation, Katz said the inquiry could take 'six to eight months'. An Israeli officer walks on the ground of the Super Nova Festival in Re'im, Israel, 17 October A bloodied woman is apparently taken hostage as other men cheer, in this still from a video Katz also outlined details of other evidence collected by police, including from the ZAKA organisation, which recovers human remains in accordance with Jewish religious law to afford them a proper burial. 'We have several statements from people from ZAKA who saw the bodies of women without pants or underwear,' he said. 'We took more than 1,000 statements and some of the victims cannot speak due to being in psychological and medical treatment,' he said. Canada has fuelled a spat with Kemi Badenoch by contradicting the minister's claim that the countries are still engaged in trade talks. The high commissioner to the UK, Ralph Goodale, has told MPs that no discussions of any kind are happening. The intervention risks inflaming tensions after Ms Badenoch paused negotiations on a new free trade agreement last month, amid a standoff over hormone-treated beef. However, she told the Commons that contacts over a looming deadline for imposing more rules of origin restrictions on car exports were continuing. After Brexit the UK and Canada rolled over a pact with the EU including preferential terms for car manufacturers, but these are due to expire at the end of March. 'Talks have not broken down. There are multiple discussions that we are having with Canada,' Ms Badenoch said in the House on January 29. Canada has fuelled a spat with Kemi Badenoch by contradicting the minister's claim that the countries are still engaged in trade talks 'On cheese, where we have not come to an agreement, however, the quotas that we have in CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) with Canada are more than what we are selling to Canada at the moment so we are not particularly concerned about that, although it is disappointing. 'We have a rules-of-origin discussion that is ongoing. And we have an FTA discussion, which I have paused, for reasons which he will know.' In a letter to the Commons Business Committee, dated February 16 and seen by the Financial Times, Mr Goodale wrote that he is 'disappointed with the unilateral pause in these negotiations'. He added: 'As far as I'm aware, since the UK announced its pause on January 25, there have been neither negotiations nor technical discussions with respect to any of the outstanding issues including British access to Canada's Tariff Rate Quotas for cheese and the approaching expiry of cumulation provisions respecting Rules of Origin.' Labour MP Liam Byrne, the committee's chair, demanded that Ms Badenoch correct the record. 'It is essential the secretary of state now explains why the Canadians' account of the talks is so utterly at variance with what she told the House of Commons,' he told the FT. An 86-year-old skier from Austria has died in hospital two weeks after colliding head on with a 24-year old British snowboarder. The tragic incident happened on February 6 on the Schonboden slope in the Axamer Lizum in Austria. The Innsbruck public prosecutor has ordered an autopsy. Once the investigation has been completed, a report will be submitted to the responsible public prosecutor's office in Innsbruck. Both the 86-year old skier and 24-year-old snowboarder were travelling down the slope when the skier made a right turn and the snowboarder made a left turn. It is reported that at the speed they were moving, it was impossible to prevent a collision - and they smashed into each other head on. The young snowboarder went to hospital on his own accord but was discharged later that day as he suffered no major injuries. The skier, however, was hospitalised with serious injuries and had to be airlifted to the Innsbruck Clinic by rescue helicopter. The 86-year-old skier, however, was hospitalised with serious injuries and had to be airlifted to the Innsbruck Clinic by rescue helicopter Two weeks after the crash, he succumbed to his injuries and died on Monday. Another fatality happened on the same day in Tyrol. A teenager from the Upper Bavarian district of Eichstatt died from injuries from falling while jumping over a freestyle hill. Britain is also seeing a large number of deaths on ski trips over the last few months. At the beginning of February, at least three Brits had died in ski-related incidents in just 11 days. On Monday 29th of January a 30-year-old died after a 'heavy fall' on a French slope. The day before, on Sunday, a 63-year-old man suffered a heart attack at another ski resort in France. In December, a British woman and her son were killed when an avalanche hit their ski resort in France. The two victims - a 54-year-old British mother and her son, 22 - were found buried and deceased, French media reported. The tragic accident occurred on the Schonboden slope in the Axamer Lizum in Austria. Both the 86-year old skier and 24-year-old snowboarder were travelling down the slope when the skier made a right turn and the snowboarder made a left turn The most recent British skier fatality was on February 7 when a 47-year-old plummeted several hundred metres to his death on a Swiss ski slope considered to be one of the world's most difficult. The tragedy took place on the notoriously steep Chavannettes piste near Champery in the in Portes du Soleil ski area. The route, also known as the 'Swiss Wall' was closed at the time of the fatal fall due to icy conditions. The 47-year-old died at the scene despite first aid attempts being made. Police have called in more than a dozen detectives from specialist units to assist the investigation into the disappearance of mother-of-three Samantha Murphy, almost three weeks after she vanished without a trace. Ms Murphy's mysterious disappearance during an early morning run on February 4 has generated hundreds of leads, with officers now honing in on known violent offenders living close to her home in Ballarat in regional Victoria. The extra detectives on what has become Victoria's highest priority police inquiry include personnel from the sex crimes, counter-terror, fraud and armed robbery divisions in Melbourne. They have travelled to Ballarat due to their experience with difficult investigations rather than a suggestion of a terror or sex crime link, the Herald Sun reported. While it's been almost two weeks since police wound back the official search, dozens of local community members remain out in force conducting their own searches. Police last week changed the status of Ms Murphy's (pictured) disappearance to 'suspicious' Searchers continue looking for clues into the disappearance of missing Ballarat woman Samantha Murphy EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Twist in Samantha Murphy's disappearance: 'Someone could have been watching her' Police released this image of Ms Murphy from the morning she vanished Advertisement The group of volunteers is looking 'for any answers, any solution, any hints, any evidence that might be able to contribute towards bringing Sam home'. The ground crew has been 'looking for Samantha continuously'. The group will meet this weekend, when the desperate mission enters its fourth week. 'The amount of mothers and women, there have been fathers and other people jumping in on the group chats which is absolutely fantastic, but a lot of the driving force, a lot of the community, a lot of the people getting involved are the women,' Cristie-Lea King told A Current Affair on Wednesday night. The community mood in Ballarat remains 'sombre', where Ms Murphy's disappearance continues to impact daily lives of many locals. 'I think it has certainly been felt, spoken about,' Ms King said. 'Even getting out of my car last night, I suddenly heard a noise. 'I shouldn't be thinking about that or worrying, but it creates a sense of until we get answers you don't know what happened.' She added that the group refused to give up hope that Ms Murphy will be found, 'Until there is an answer, we are not giving up hope on her if she is there,' Ms King said. 'Nobody knows until there is evidence, but realistically, it's about getting big numbers and big groups out there coming together to do whatever we can. 'If there is evidence, we want to be able to find it. If there is something to help the authorities, we want to be able to help,' she said. While the police have publicly said they don't have any leads, sources told A Current Affair that they believe the missing mum may no longer be in the area around her home. 'The fact they've wound back the search I think obviously they know things we may not know about,' criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro told the program. 'Clearly it's affected the community, clearly they're worried about the situation and clearly they're very supportive of the woman who disappeared. Police still have no standout theory about what happened to Ms Murphy, almost three weeks since she her home, never to be seen again. Volunteer searcher Cristie-Lea King (pictured) said they are looking 'for any answers, any solution, any hints, any evidence that might be able to contribute towards bringing Sam home' It's understood they believe Ms Murphy made it into the forest area where she regularly ran. There are no witnesses, no CCTV and no dashcam footage to help crack the mystery - which is very rare in a time when consumer surveillance technology plays a vital ole in many police investigations. The only solid clue has been that her mobile phone 'pinged' off a tower at Buninyong, on Ballarat's southern fringe, later on the day she went missing. The phone has not pinged anywhere since then. The area she was running in - bushland around the Woowookarung Regional Park - has a lot of old mine shafts However it likely she would have been found by now if she fell down one of them. The theory that Ms Murphy would disappear of her own choice has been looked at, but there is no evidence to suggest that's what happened or that she would do that to her children. The search for a two-year-old boy who fell into a river has entered its fourth day as rescue teams continue to trawl the riverbank looking for clues. The toddler was with his family when he fell into the fast-flowing River Soar near Aylestone in Leicestershire on Sunday evening, which had burst its banks in parts of the nature reserve. Specialist police divers continued a third full day of searches for the youngster , despite difficult conditions caused by heavy rainfall. Officers confirmed on Tuesday that CCTV footage had been recovered showing the moment the two-year-old local boy fell in. In a statement, Assistant Chief Constable Michaela Kerr said: 'As we now enter the fourth day of the search for the missing boy, we have been truly overwhelmed by the support we have received from forces and other agencies across the country as well as from our communities and the wider public. Rescue teams continue their search for a missing two-year-old boy today The toddler fell into the River Soar in Aylestone Meadows, close to Marsden Lane, in Leicester, on Sunday afternoon Rescue teams have been working since Sunday to try and locate the missing child 'The priority for us all remains to find this little boy and we are grateful for all of your help and support. 'Specialist officers continue to provide full support to the family and our thoughts very much remain with them. I thank them for their bravery, their support and co-operation with us at this extremely traumatic time. 'I would also like to add that following the appeal we issued on Monday evening for witnesses, we have had a large number of responses and have identified a number of people who were in the area at the time who have provided us with information.' Ms Kerr added: 'While the weather conditions today do make the search more difficult for us, this will absolutely not stop our dedicated and specialist teams at the scene from doing everything they can. 'Our search operation today does very much remain ongoing.' On Monday, police stepped up their search by using drones and specialist divers to look for the boy overnight. Sergeant Chris Haines, who is leading the search operation, said: 'Underwater dive teams are doing extensive searches, which they are continuing at present.' Earlier this week it was revealed that police are trying to get in touch with a dog walker who was in the area at the time the toddler was swept away. A police diver prepares to enter the water on the fourth day of the rescue operation Specialist divers are part of the rescue efforts in the River Soar, Leicestershire Police remain hopeful that they will find the missing two-year-old boy The force also asked members of the public who have spoken with officers nearby to contact them so they can check the details given. Back-up officers and resources have also arrived from other forces including Lincolnshire Police, Nottinghamshire Police and London's Metropolitan Police. Leicestershire Police's assistant chief constable Michaela Kerr said on Monday: 'We're confident we will find him - we're doing everything we possibly can. 'For the family, our commitment is absolutely to make sure we bring their little boy home. 'We've got all the specialist resources we would possibly want, I think, in a case like this. Our absolute priority is to find that little boy.' She added: 'The child was with a family member at the time he went into the water. 'We do know one person went into the River Soar to try to get the child but sadly we still haven't been able to find the child.' She confirmed that person was a family member, subsequently taken to hospital and now discharged. Rising water levels pictured on the River Soar near Aylestone Meadows, Aylestone, Leicester Leicestershire Police's assistant chief constable Michaela Kerr has vowed their 'absolute priority' is to find the two-year-old boy who fell into the river on Sunday evening The search is taking place in the River Soar near Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve Rising tides and flooding which could hamper the operation have been reported Leicestershire Police - pictured on Monday - say the toddler's family is being supported while searches continue A drone was seen in the air as part of search efforts on Sunday night, with police and fire crews calling off their search at about 9.30pm though officers remained close to the scene overnight, ready to act on any new information. A long-standing resident whose home overlooks Aylestone Meadows said flooding from the River Soar in recent weeks had left parts of the nature reserve in a treacherous state. She said a helicopter had initially flown over the area for around an hour after reports that a two-year-old child had fallen in the river. The resident, who did not wish to be named, told reporters: 'It seemed to be there for a long time hovering. 'It felt as if it was above my house. The lights were on and it didn't move for about an hour or so.' The woman, who walks regularly in the area, said a nearby canal and the river sometimes 'go into one' during peak flooding periods. 'It's fast-flowing,' she said of current conditions. 'It's been quite bad. It's devastating to think how they (family members) must be feeling.' A health charity boss has been banned by a judge and deemed 'unfit' to be a trustee after a company she ran was paid nearly 350,000 of her charity's money - almost two thirds of its income - over two years. Judge Peter Hinchliffe said Suzanne Goodband had been paid 'excessive, unreasonable and disproportionate' sums for consultancy work for a London health charity, where she was chair of the trustees. She had been the 'dominant force' at the Island Health Trust, based on the Isle of Dogs, between 2015 and 2017, during which she 'personally benefitted' from the payments. She was hauled before the Charity Commission in 2022, with the regulator finding that the payments - which mainly related to investigations into a potential 9.4m deal to sell a building housing an NHS GP's surgery to developers - represented a conflict of interest. Now after being found 'unfit' to be a charity trustee, but 'not dishonest,' she has been banned from taking up any such role for seven years by Judge Hinchliffe at the First-tier Tribunal. Suzanne Goodband deemed 'unfit' to be a trustee - but 'not dishonest' - after a company she ran was paid nearly 350,000 of her charity's money The tribunal heard that 66-year-old Ms Goodband is a former nurse, who rose through the health service ranks to eventually take chief executive level roles in the NHS. The Island Health Trust was set up in 2008 with the primary purpose of owning the property from which an NHS GP service was run on the Isle of Dogs. Ms Goodband was appointed as chair of the trustees in October 2009 and in 2014 learned of a redevelopment opportunity, which was thought to be worth up to 9.4m for the charity. Her company, Suzanne Goodband Interim Solutions Ltd, was contracted to work on the plans, at a rate of 1,375 per day, exclusive of VAT. The company - of which she is ultimately the sole owner - was paid 349,955, including 342,736 in the financial years 2016 and 2017 alone, nearly two thirds of the charity's total income in those years of 517,614. However, the development did not go ahead and the charity was left out of pocket. She ultimately agreed a settlement in a claim brought by the charity, which saw her insurers paying 165,000 to end the case. However, she was then taken before the Charity Commission, which in 2022 found that there had been 'misconduct and/or mismanagement in the administration of the charity.' She did not 'act in the best interests of the charity in causing or permitting the expenditure of charitable funds on speculative strategic developments and property deals.' She was banned from being a charity trustee for 12 years, but her disqualification was paused pending an appeal to Judge Hinchliffe at the First-tier Tribunal. Goodband had been the 'dominant force' at the Island Health Trust, based on the Isle of Dogs Ms Goodband insisted that she had acted with integrity throughout and that the charity contracting her company was 'necessary' for it to pursue the development opportunity. But now, following a hearing last November, Judge Hinchliffe has confirmed Ms Goodband's disqualification, although cutting it to seven years. He said Ms Goodband did not 'lack integrity' and genuinely believed that she was acting in the charity's best interests in trying to increase its funds and widen its work. But she could not 'see the wood for the trees' and acted 'recklessly' with the result that the charity's reputation was harmed, he said. 'The position where over 60% of the income of a charity is spent paying the chair of the trustees is one which the public is unlikely to understand or accept,' he said. He said there had been a 'clear conflict of interest' in being chair of the trustees and simultaneously personally benefiting from a consultancy contract. 'The remuneration paid to Ms Goodband by the charity was excessive, unreasonable and disproportionate to any value that the charity received,' he said. He continued: 'Ms Goodband lacks the perspective and objectivity required to effectively discharge a role as a trustee of a charity acting for the public benefit. 'Therefore, the tribunal comes to the conclusion that Ms Goodband is unfit to be a charity trustee or trustee for a charity. 'We have concluded that Ms Goodband did not act dishonestly and that she was not primarily motivated by desire to make personal gain and that she did not lack integrity. 'However, the misconduct or mismanagement for which she was responsible or for which she failed to take adequate steps to avoid has caused significant damage to public trust and confidence in the charity and has potential to have the same effect more widely on other charities. 'The circumstances in which it arose were obvious and avoidable and Ms Goodband's conduct was reckless. 'A disqualification for seven years from the date of this decision would be proportionate to the breaches and failures for which Ms Goodband is responsible and would be sufficient to protect charities.' The Body Shop's financial woes follow a gradual decline in faith in its long-standing activist roots. The UK arm of the beauty retailer was plunged into administration last week, with up to half of its 198 stores set to shut and hundreds of job losses imminent. The chain, which employs 2,220 people in Britain, has a long-standing history of ethical consumerism, and in the past has used political issues to draw in customers. Issues it has championed over the years includes votes for teens, selling environmentally-friendly products and protecting animal welfare. Founded by pioneering businesswoman Dame Anita Roddick and her husband in 1976, the brand was rooted in trailblazing as an ethical firm. But many questioned whether its commitment to ethical activism would be aligned with the sales of L'Oreal in 2006 and Natura in 2017. Retail experts claim that in an increasingly competitive market for sustainable and ethical brands, The Body Shop has long lost its edge as an environmental juggernaut of the high street. Maintaining The Body Shop's sustainable roots look increasingly muddied following its takeover by private equity firm Aurelius. The UK arm of The Body Shop has collapsed into administration with half of stores set to close The Body Shop was founded by Dame Anita Roddick (pictured) and her husband in 1976, and was rooted in political activism such as calling for an end to animal testing The brand has enjoyed the endorsement of celebrities such as Leona Lewis (pictured) who created a cruelty-free cosmetics line for The Body Shop The Body Shop has faced increasing competition in recent years as the sustainable product market becomes increasingly crowded. Industry expert Susannah Streeter pointed to rivals such as Lush who offer a broader range of products and ingredients. The head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, she told Sky News: 'In the 1980s, The Body Shop was the place to go for young shoppers to splash out on fresh scented bubbles and beauty ranges, with a deep environmental conscience and a focus on social justice and conserving nature. 'But now stores like Lush hold the bigger pocket money draw for tweens and teens, lured in by fragrant bath bombs and innovative product ingredients. The company has long had a Head of Activism specifically to direct its campaigns, a role currently held by Alice Mazzola. Its journey as an ethical brand first and foremost has been bumpy since Ms Roddick sold the chain to L'Oreal in 2006 - a decision which angered many loyal customers due to its then-use of ingredients from third party companies which may have been subject to animal testing. While still at the head of the company, Ms Roddick frequently led political campaigns herself, and was often pictured protesting against animal testing alongside hundreds of activists. Beginning with a 'Save the Whale' campaign in coordination with Greenpeace in 1986, she pioneered the brand's involvement in pushes to save global rainforests, partnered with Amnesty International to promote human rights and oversaw a campaign against domestic violence in more than 50 countries. The sale to L'Oreal, which allowed the use of ingredients tested on animals, was therefore seen as a sell-out by loyal customers and a boycott amongst consumers led by Naturewatch lasted more than a decade. L'Oreal has since banned the use of ingredients that have been tested on animals. Ms Roddick died soon after the sale in 2007, leaving all of her 51million fortune to various charities. From 2009 to 2012, The Body Shop focussed efforts on protesting against global trafficking of children and young people In 2010, The Body Shop organised a protest through central London against child trafficking and child prostitution around the world The Body Shop is vocal on social media, previously campaigning for body positivity on Instagram Despite the boycott The Body Shop continued with valuable activism, including raising awareness of HIV and AIDs and protesting in London against the global trafficking of children and young people. READ MORE: New owners of The Body Shop line up administrators just weeks after 250 stores were sold in 207m deal Advertisement The firm also relied on celebrity endorsements - in 2013, X Factor winner Leona Lewis joined the brand as an ambassador and launched a cruelty-free make-up line. When the brand was sold again in 2017 - this time to Natura - a matter of months later in January 2018, the new owner declared itself a cruelty-free brand. In more recent years The Body Shop has waded deeper into politics, launching a campaign entitled Be Seen Be Heard in August 2022 in cooperation with the UN. Hilary Lloyd, vice president of marketing and corporate social responsibility, said at the time The Body Shop identified as an 'activist brand with a rich history of fighting for what's right'. Its aim was to get young people more involved with the brand by fighting to get them involved in global policy discussions. This was partly done by encouraging people to register to vote in countries such as the UK and US and campaigning for the vote to be extended to 16 and 17-year-olds. The brand has also not shied away from speaking out on issues on social media, and was applauded by many for criticising JK Rowling's stance on trans rights on Twitter in 2020. Anita Roddick merged business goals with humanitarian values, and was involved in a number of charities across the globe Anita Roddick launched The Body Shop in 1976 to provide for her two children. In a matter of years, it quickly became one of the biggest names in skincare. She is pictured outside one of her first stores in October 1985 However the move also alienated some of its base, with customers even threatening another boycott online in response. This is emblematic of stances which have increasingly divided the firm's customer base. On social media, The Body Shop continues to campaign, posting a video just weeks ago of its founder and her work - a choice which followers blasted as 'hypocritical'. Accompanying the post was the caption: 'WE EXIST TO FIGHT FOR A FAIRER, MORE BEAUTIFUL WORLD. 'This is our purpose, and it drives everything we do. We believe in the beauty of the planet and the good in people, but our world needs work. 'Nature is suffering at our hands, whole species are become extinct in our lifetimes, and our society remains desperately, deeply unfair and unequal. 'Our founder, Dame Anita Roddick, built The Body Shop to fight for what is good, and just, and beautiful. Today, this fight is still at the heart of everything we do.' Oxford Street's The Body Shop was shuttered as it was closed for good on Tuesday Seven stores closed on Tuesday, administrators confirmed Administrators yesterday announced the immediate closure of seven stores, and confirmed the cosmetics and skincare chain would ultimately shut almost half of its 198 premises. How Dame Anita Roddick opened the first Body Shop in 1976 In 1976, founder Anita Roddick opened the little green door to the first Body Shop nestled in the streets of her hometown, Brighton. The first store varied significantly from the ones you might expect to see today, with only 25 products on offer. But the focus was still much the same, with an emphasis on ethically sourced and natural ingredients. When Anita founded the beauty store at the age of 34, she did not predict global success. The mother-of-two simply longed to make a living for her two daughters while her husband travelled, according to the BBC. Anita initially invested 4,000 into her business venture and took a frugal approach where possible. She travelled to her local hospital to purchase urine sample bottles to sell her products in with handwritten labels. Anita quickly realised that she wouldn't have enough of them to last, which led to the Body Shop's trademark refillable bottles policy. Despite putting advertisements on a backburner, success came quickly and Brighton residents were keen to get their hands on Anita's produce. Advertisement The firm will also cut around 270 head office jobs as part of a heavy restructuring, leaving it with around 400 workers at its London headquarters. The group also employs around 1,500 workers across its UK shops, with hundreds of these workers expected to face redundancy as a result of the proposed closures. Administrators confirmed the closure of its stores at Surrey Quays London, Oxford Street London, Canary Wharf London, Cheapside London, Nuneaton, Ashford town centre Kent and Queens Road Bristol on Tuesday. The stores were shuttered and large signs were fixed to their doors thanking customers and telling them to shop online instead. The group's other stores will continue to trade until further updates from insolvency experts overseeing the process. Administrators from FRP Advisory said in a statement: 'After years of unprofitability and following a full evaluation of The Body Shop's UK business, the joint administrators have concluded that the current store portfolio mix is no longer viable. 'This swift action will help re-energise The Body Shop's iconic brand and provide it with the best platform to achieve its ambition to be a modern, dynamic beauty brand that is able to return to profitability and compete for the long term.' The company hired administrators, who will assess offers for the brand and its assets, after years of financial struggles and amid a challenging backdrop for shoppers. The dramatic overhaul comes only weeks after new owners, European private equity firm Aurelius, took control of the business. Aurelius, which specialises in buying and turning around troubled firms, secured a 207 million deal in November to buy The Body Shop from Brazilian cosmetics giant Natura & Co. It only took control of operations officially on January 1. Aurelius agreed a deal late last month to sell the company's operations in most of mainland Europe and in parts of Asia to an international family office in a 'decisive step towards delivering a strong turnaround strategy' at The Body Shop. This the terrifying moment a speeding car flies straight over the top of a roundabout and smashes into another driver, before apparently fleeing the scene. Dashcam footage shows a speeding grey car careening into a roundabout by an Asda store on Queslett Road in Birmingham, West Midlands on Tuesday night. The incident took place just two days after a tragic traffic accident on Soho Road in Birmingham that left one man dead and two in hospital. Viewers can see the grey vehicle drive into the middle of the roundabout and catch its bumper on the kerb, causing the car to launch high into the air, before it crashes back down to earth on the other side. Upon landing, the car smashes down and into the side of another motorist, wiping them out and sending their vehicle into a spin. Not stopping however, the offending car manages to find the junction on the other side of the roundabout and slides off down the road. Wobbling from side to side and badly damaged with barely any traction, the grey car eventually comes to a skidding stop a little way down the road. Dashcam footage shows a speeding grey car (circled) careening into a roundabout by an Asda store on Queslett Road in Birmingham , West Midlands Viewers can see the grey vehicle drive into the middle of the roundabout and catch its bumper on the kerb The driver of the dashcam car can be seen slowly coming to stop at their entrance to the roundabout at the start of the video. As he prepares to join, the grey car flies in from the right of the screen via another exit. Following the shocking incident, both the motorist in the car that recorded the incident and a smaller red car that was on the roundabout inch forward to offer assistance to those involved in the crash. The motorist recording the incident reaches the wiped-out car and comes to a stop before the sound of a seatbelt being undone can be heard as they prepare to get out and help the unlucky driver. The footage was shared to social media on Tuesday with the caption: 'Asda Queslett.' The clip has since received dozens of likes and comments from social media users left stunned at the motorist's actions so soon after the fatal crash on Soho Road. One user said: 'When they tell you go straight over the roundabout. Another added: 'There ain't no way (sic), 24 hours later', while a third commented: 'What's going on in the city?'. The offending car manages to find the junction on the other side of the roundabout and slides off down the road On Sunday, a married father was killed in the crash on Soho Road when an Audi ploughed into at least six other cars at high speed, whilst two others were hospitalised. A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in relation to the incident. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, described it as 'another needless death in Birmingham'. He went on to say: 'Road safety is a priority across the whole West Midlands and this incident is a reminder that we need all partners - including Birmingham City Council - to play their full part. 'Now is the time to double down on our road safety responsibilities, not step away.' West Midlands Police says they are aware of the footage and have asked anyone in the area that saw what happened to contact them via 101 or Live Chat quoting log number 4799 of 20 Feb. A spokesperson for the force said: 'Road safety is a priority for us and partners including Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), local authorities and the regions Police and Crime Commissioner. 'We joined forces under the Operation Triton banner last year to pledge action to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads and this work continues. 'We are actively patrolling key areas to enforce speed limits and protect our communities from the dangers of excessive speed and other road harm issues. However, the police cannot be everywhere. 'We urge motorists to prioritise road safety as their actions can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and protecting lives. 'We also appreciate the support and cooperation of our communities in reporting any instances of dangerous driving.' Julian Assange's wife has called on protesters to march on Downing Street - as her husband was today accused of 'putting lives at risk' with his WikiLeaks revelations. Assange is in a last-ditch battle to avoid extradition to the US where he faces espionage charges after hundreds of thousands of secret files relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars were leaked online. In an impassioned speech outside the High Court on the final day of his appeal hearing, the 52-year-old's wife Stella Assange accused the White House of 'lying' about her husband in an attempt to 'criminalise' journalism. During a political broadside against the American authorities, the 40-year-old lawyer said the US prosecution of her husband showed that 'state secrets trump revealing state crimes'. Cheered on by supporters outside of court, Mrs Assange said: 'How pathetic the US case is they have to rely on lies and then the prosecutors say don't question these lies because that would offend our ally. Stella Assange accused the White House of 'lying' about her husband in an attempt to 'criminalise' journalism Mrs Assange, who is married to WikiLeaks founder Julian, was speaking to supporters on Wednesday - as she urged them to march on Downing Street in protest WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange gestures from the window of a prison van as he is driven out of Southwark Crown Court in London on May 1, 2019 'Fourteen years on, all they can do is repeat the lies from the very first Pentagon press conference talking point's sheet. 'What they're trying to argue is that state secrets trump revealing state crimes. This is the balance they're trying to shift. 'They want impunity, they don't want to be scrutinised and journalism stands in the way [of that]. 'In that court room they are having to make their position increasingly clear. They have to admit that what they're doing is criminalising journalism it's criminalising the truth. 'They're liars, they're criminals and they're persecuting the journalist who exposed them.' Her comments came as the second and final day of Assange's appeal against extradition to the US approached its conclusion this afternoon. Assange now faces a wait to see whether his final UK bid to bring an appeal over his extradition to the States can go ahead. The Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his website's publication of classified US documents almost 15 years ago. His lawyers say he faces up to 175 in jail, meaning if he is extradited to America and convicted, he would likely die behind bars. If his latest court appeal fight fails, he will be extradited within a month - unless his legal team can convince the European Court of Human Rights to intervene. Mrs Assange claimed the American authorities were trying to argue that 'state secrets trump revealing state crimes', as she accused the White House of lying Hundreds of protesters staged a rally outside of London's High Court on Tuesday in support of Assange Assange's wife Stella, also joined the rally on Tuesday, giving an impassioned speech demanding her husband's 'freedom' In a January 2021 ruling, then-district judge Vanessa Baraitser said Assange should not be sent to the America, citing a real and 'oppressive' risk of suicide, while ruling against him on all other issues. But later that year, US authorities won their High Court bid to overturn this block, paving the way towards Assange's extradition. The 52-year-old's lawyers are now asking the High Court to grant him a new appeal - his last legal roll of the dice in the long-running legal saga that has kept him caged at Belmarsh maximum security prison in south-east London for the past five years. American prosecutors say Assange helped US Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks later published, putting lives at risk. US authorities are opposing the WikiLeaks founder's bid for an appeal, telling the court his case is 'unarguable' and should not be allowed to proceed to a full hearing. At the start of the arguments on behalf of the US on Wednesday, Clair Dobbin KC said the plans to extradite and prosecute Assange are based on his alleged actions, not his political opinions. She told the High Court that Assange faces allegations he encouraged and assisted Manning in obtaining classified documents, including around 400,000 Iraq war-related activity reports and 250,000 US State Department cables, before publishing many of them through WikiLeaks. The secret files detailed aspects of military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq and secret cables about Guantanamo Bay. This included the notorious 'Collateral Murder' video, which showed the July 2007 killing by an American Apache helicopter crew of eleven civilians, including Reuters journalists Namir Noor-Eldeen, 22, and Saeed Chmagh, 40. Protesters pictured outside the High Court on Wednesday for the second day of Assange's hearting The Wikileaks founder is appearing in court for a two-day hearing which will determine whether he will be extradited to the US The video, recorded by the helicopter gunsight, showed the helicopter crew firing into a group of Iraqi civilian men in Baghdad after being given permission from a commanding officer, killing 11 men and seriously wounding two children. Ms Dobbin said there were 'profound consequences', with some of the named sources in the documents, who had provided information to the US, facing arrest, the loss of assets, threats and harassment. 'This wasn't a slip, or an error, this was the publication of a vast amount of material unredacted,' she said. In written submissions, Ms Dobbin and James Lewis KC described the leak as 'one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the United States'. They continued: 'It is specifically alleged against the appellant that by publishing this information on the WikiLeaks website, he created a grave and imminent risk that the human sources named therein would suffer serious physical harm.' The US authorities have denied that the decision to extradite or prosecute Assange is due to his political opinions. Ms Dobbin said: 'The administration in the US of course changed during these proceedings... but nonetheless the prosecution of the appellant remains in foot. 'Because it is based on law and evidence, not political inspiration.' During the first day of the hearing on Tuesday, Mark Summers KC argued the US prosecution of Assange would be retribution for his political opinions, meaning it would be unlawful to extradite him under UK law. Protesters from as far as Australia joined Tuesday's demonstration outside the London court Hundreds of protester were seen supporting Assange during a rally outside the High Court He said: 'This is a paradigm example of state retaliation for the expression of political opinion. 'The district judge did not address it - had she done so, it would have been fatal to her decision.' The barrister later said that the original judge 'rejected outright' that Assange should be treated like a journalist 'or what he did could fall under the ambit of responsible journalism'. Assange's lawyers argued on the first day of the hearing on Tuesday that American authorities are seeking to punish him for WikiLeaks' 'exposure of criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale,' including torture and killings. Barrister Edward Fitzgerald KC said Assange may 'suffer a flagrant denial of justice' if he is sent to America. Speaking in the High Court during the opening day of his appeal hearing, Mr Fitzgerald KC said his extradition for 'purely political offences' was illegal and that 'the secretary of state should have refused to authorise extradition.' He said the decision breached of Article Four of the 2003 Anglo-US extradition treaty, which, he said, prohibited extradition on political grounds. 'The offences with which Mr Assange is charged are all 'political offences', extradition for which is squarely prohibited by the terms of Article 4(1) of the Treaty,' the barrister told the High Court. The Australian's legal team also accused American authorities of attempting a 'breathtaking' plan to 'to kill' or kidnap the WikiLeaks founder while he was sheltering in the Ecuadorian embassy in London. Mark Summers KC said the plot 'only fell apart when the UK authorities weren't very keen on the thought of rendition, or a shootout, in the streets of London'. Ms Assange spoke to protesters outside of court, having previously warned her husband 'will die' if he is extradited to America Julian Assange, who faces espionage charges and up to 175 years in jail, pictured with his wife Stella A huge crowd of supporters were pictured at the High Court on Wednesday morning The barrister argued the US prosecution of the WikiLeaks founder was retribution for his political opinions - which he argued would make it unlawful to extradite him - and that there were 'red flags' everywhere in the case. His legal team claimed the espionage charges against him were an unprecedented attempt by Washington to 'criminalise journalism', in retaliation for Wikileaks' publication of the leaked documents. But Clair Dobbin, KC, on behalf of the US, claimed the District Judge who originally assessed Assange's extradition case had rejected the idea he was a journalist practising 'responsible journalism'. She said: 'The District Judge had rejected outright that the appellant was to be treated as a journalist, or akin to a journalist, or a publisher, or that what he did could fall into the ambit of responsible journalism.' She claimed Assange had 'explicitly solicited' classified material from others for publication on the WikiLeaks website, rather than simply being a passive recipient of it. Ms Dobbin added: 'He is not a recipient. He's not someone who's set up an online 'box' to which people can provide classified information.' She said Manning, who gave Assange 'four almost complete databases' containing hundreds of thousands of documents, had been responding to this solicitation when she handed the information. 'Ms Manning was in direct contact with the appellant, who encouraged her to steal the classified information from the US and unlawfully disclose it to WikiLeaks,' the barrister added. She also said Assange had gone further when he 'agreed to assist Manning in cracking an encrypted password hash stored on US Department of Defence computers' in order to gain access to further classified information. As a result, Assange was 'not in a position to claim he is or acts in a way akin to an ordinary journalist or, in terms of WikiLeaks, as an ordinary publisher.' Dozens gathered outside the High Court on Wednesday for the second day of the hearing Hundreds of people gathered outside the court to show their support to the Wikileaks founder Ms Assange spoke to protesters outside of court, having previously warned her husband 'will die' if he is extradited to America His 'complicity' in the theft of information extended beyond Ms Manning. 'Since the time he started WikiLeaks he and others sought to recruit individuals with access to classified information to unlawfully disclose that information to WikiLeaks,' the barrister said. She added that he also continued to try to recruit people to hack systems and provide information after Manning was arrested. Ms Dobbin disputed whether Manning was a whistleblower, saying this notion 'breaks down on realistic consideration of what she was accused of, namely responding to WikiLeaks' efforts to solicit disclosure.' She said Manning had not given 'any reasonable thought to specific disclosure to make or specific issues she wanted to raise,' and that she had indiscriminately handed material over in bulk. Ms Dobbin claimed this challenged the argument made by Assange's lawyers yesterday that extradition would breach his European Convention on Human Rights [EHCR] Article 10 rights, which protect an individual's freedom of expression. This campaign pictured on Wednesday holds her poster demanding Assange is freed Other supporter arrived outside court on Wednesday armed with large signs calling him a hero Stella Assange arrives at court surrounded by police for the second day of her husband, Julian's, hearing 'To the extent that the appellant argues that the act of extradition would expose him to a breach of his Article 10 rights because he was merely assisting a whistleblower or acting as any journalist might rests upon a mischaracterisation of the basis upon which the appellant was being prosecuted.' Assange had also knowingly published material containing the names of individuals when he published unredacted some 250,000 US State Department cables in 2011, and that he knew it would put people at risk, the barrister claimed. The 52-year-old was not in court on Tuesday because he was unwell, his lawyer said. Stella Assange, his wife, said Julian had wanted to attend, but was 'not in good condition.' Assange's family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and the last five years in the high-security prison on the outskirts of the British capital. Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022 - said last week that his health has deteriorated during years of confinement and 'if he's extradited, he will die.' Supporters holding 'Free Julian Assange' signs and chanting 'there is only one decision - no extradition' held a noisy protest outside the neo-Gothic High Court building for a second day on Wednesday. Assange, 52, is facing up to 175 years in jail for espionage - meaning if he is extradited and convicted, he would likely die behind bars. Assange's legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A U.K. district court judge rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the U.S. about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. If judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition - though supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the U.S. before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. The two justices could deliver a verdict at the end of the hearing on Wednesday, but they're more likely to take several weeks to consider their decision. The defecting Russian military helicopter pilot gunned down in Spain this week may have given away his location to hitmen with a phonecall inviting his ex-girlfriend to visit him in Alicante, it has been revealed. Captain Maksim Kuzminov was found riddled with bullets in an underground car park in Villajoyosa near Alicante earlier this month following what is feared to have been a Kremlin-orchestrated hit. The 28-year-old had made himself a target of Russian death squads by fleeing his homeland last August in a stolen Mi-8 helicopter and landing it in a Ukrainian military airfield. Living under a new identity in Spain - and enriched by the Ukrainians after his defection - he had set about building a new life for himself free from the horrors of war. But he is believed to have made a fatal mistake in contacting a former flame and inviting her to his new address. 'We know he had invited an ex-girlfriend to Spain and afterwards he was found dead. That call could have been intercepted by Russian secret services,' Spanish media reported. Meanwhile, sources close to the investigation claimed Russian ammunition was used in the attack to signal to other deserters the reach and murderous intention of the Kremlin's security apparatus. It comes as the staunchest critic of Vladimir Putin, Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, died in the depths of an Arctic prison last week in what was almost certainly another coordinated hit at the behest of the Kremlin. Maksim Kuzminov who flew his helicopter over the frontline to defect to Ukraine has been gunned to death in Spain while living under a new identity Spanish Civil Guard officers investigate the garage where the body of Russian pilot Kuzminov A burned car allegedly used by the perpetrators of the murder of the Russian pilot Maksim Kuzminov to escape the scene is parked outside the Spanish Civil Guard barracks, in El Campello, Spain Captain Kuzminov, 28, (pictured) fled Russia with the help of Ukrainian intelligence services Anonymous Spetsnaz special forces officers from Russia's GRU were last year shown on Moscow state TV making clear an 'order' had been given to liquidate Kuzminov Kizminov's death came just days before Alexei Navalny died in the depths of an Arctic prison in what was almost certainly another coordinated hit at the behest of the Kremlin (Putin pictured) Respected Alicante paper Informacion reported today: 'Although the exact calibre or brand has not been revealed, the fact that the ammunition is Russian-made confirms the suspicion that the dead man is not the 33-year-old Ukrainian man that the documentation he was carrying said, but 28-year-old Captain Kuzminov. 'Sources close to the investigation consider the assassins used Russian ammunition so there would be no doubt the execution, with its exemplary overtones, came from Russia and was the direct and announced consequence of the high-profile desertion.' Kuzminov was shot six times on February 13 after being chased from the second floor of a basement car park underneath a large residential estate in Villajoyosa near Benidorm. A car linked to the crime and thought to have been driven by a getaway driver working with the gunman was later found burnt out in nearby El Campello. Spanish investigators are working on the theory the assassins were hired hitmen who have likely since left the country. They are analysing CCTV footage and are expected to officially confirm Kuzminov was the victim when they have the results of fingerprint and DNA tests and have submitted a full report to an investigating judge. Although it was initially reported Kuzminov was working at the residential estate where he was shot dead, it later emerged he had been staying at a flat he was doing up. He was operating under an alias that saw him assume the profile of a 33-year-old Ukrainian man and had used his new wealth - rumoured to be 400,000 - to buy property at an estate agency with Russian links. This, along with the ill-advised call to his ex-girlfriend, is thought to have alerted Russian security services to his whereabouts. Last year, anonymous Spetsnaz special forces officers from Russia's GRU military intelligence service were shown on Russian state TV making clear an 'order' had been given to liquidate Kuzminov. State-run Rossiya 1 channel's Vesti Nedeli channel told viewers in a chilling broadcast: 'The order [to kill Captain Kuzminov] was received, its execution is a matter of time.' One Spetsnaz officer said: 'We'll find the man and punish him for betraying his brothers to the fullest extent of our country's law.' A second officer said simply: ' He will not live' It comes as independent Telegram channel Volya - which monitors both sides in the war - drew a link between the case of the slain pilot and the murky circumstances surrounding the demise of multimillionaire Sergey Protosenya, 55. The former oligarch, a deputy chairman of Russian gas company Novatek, was found hanged in spring 2022 after allegedly murdering his wife Natalia, 53, and their teenage daughter, Maria, as they slept in a Catalan resort town. But the gruesome crime scene smacked of a setup, and Protosenya is just one of dozens of Russian energy oligarchs to have met a sticky end since the war in Ukraine broke out. Pictured: Ukraine intelligence officers inspect a Russian helicopter which they say was handed over to Ukraine by Russian pilot Maksim Kuzminov Spanish Civil Guard officers stand outside the garage where the body of the Russian pilot Maksim Kuzminov was found after he was shot dead Spanish detectives have launched a probe into the pilot's death. Pictured: Spanish Civil Guard officers at the garage where Kuzminov's body was found Russian gas tycoon Sergei Protosenya, his wife Natalya, 53, and teenage daughter Maria were found dead in their Spanish mansion, in Lloret de Mar, on April 19, 2022 Former oligarch Protosenya, a deputy chairman of Russian gas company Novatek, was found hanged in spring 2022 Volya claims both the Russian secret services and long established mafia clans are active in Spain, giving the Russian state a terrifying reach. 'The Russians have been living in Alicante, Altea, Benidorm and neighbouring small towns for two years now [since the start of the war], providing security for cargo and ships, security of cash used for settlements, and escort of 'export-import' specialists coming from the Russian Federation, some of whom wear FSB shoulder straps, and some [GRU military intelligence],' said the Volya report. 'Among these people there are professional killers or saboteurs. It was they who killed the former top manager of Novatek Sergei Protosenya in the spring of 2022 in Lloret de Mar. 'The murder of Protosenya was associated with the purge of personnel who knew a lot about the withdrawal of money to the EU and its legalisation there. 'They tried to cover up that death as an alleged domestic murder... But they did not disguise themselves with Kuzminov,' reported Volya. 'They promised to punish him - they punished.' It warned: 'While European politicians are expressing concern about Navalny's murder, Russian assassins and intelligence agencies are active and, unfortunately, successfully operating throughout Europe and other parts of the world.' How the Kremlin's enemies die: Poison, staged suicides, falling out of windows the many different ways Moscow's opponents meet their maker, as Alexei Navalny is 'killed using KGB heart punch' By CHRIS JEWERS The death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and accusations that Vladimir Putin was behind it have once again raised the spectre of Kremlin assassinations. World leaders and commentators instantly pointed the finger at the Russian president when the news of Navalny's death broke on Friday, with questions around the cause of death fuelled by officials delaying the release of the body. Some have suggested the 47-year-old dissident was poisoned - as he was in 2020 in a previous assassination attempt - while one source inside the prison colony where Navalny died has claimed he was likely killed by a single punch to the heart. Vladimir Osechkin, a Russian exile and human rights campaigner, said bruising found on the opposition leader's body was consistent with the 'one-punch' execution method popular among agents of the Soviet Union's KGB security service. 'It is an old method of the KGB's special forces divisions,' Osechkin told The Times. 'They trained their operatives to kill a man with one punch in the heart, in the centre of the body. It was a hallmark of the KGB.' It doesn't take a keen Kremlin watcher to see Navalny's death as the latest in a long list of attempts to eradicate opponents of Putin over the years. The death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and accusations that Vladimir Putin was behind it have once again raised the spectre of Kremlin assassinations It doesn't take a keen Kremlin watcher to see Navalny's death as the latest in a systemic string of attempts to eradicate opponents of Vladimir Putin (pictured on Tuesday) over the years Kremlin political critics, turncoat spies and investigative journalists have been killed or assaulted by a variety of methods straight off Moscow's assassination menu. The attacks range from the exotic - poisoned by drinking polonium-laced tea or touching a deadly nerve agent - to the less subtle, such as getting shot at close range or being blown up in a private jet. Some take a fatal plunge from an open window, and there being several reports of Russian executives dying under mysterious circumstances, although whether they were deliberate killings or suicides is sometimes difficult to determine. Such killings have not been contained to Russia's borders either. Suspected Kremlin hit squads have carried out attacks against Putin's enemies across Europe - with questions even being raised this week over the suspected killing of a Russian defector in Spain. Here, MailOnline looks at the most prominent cases of documented killings or attempted killings, and the methods used by suspected Kremlin assassins. Poisonings Although Russian authorities announced Putin's key political challenger had died in an Arctic prison colony on Friday, the details of what exactly happened are unknown. Russia's Federal Penitentiary Service said Navalny felt unwell after a walk and lost consciousness. An ambulance arrived, but he could not be revived. Prison officials say they are still establishing why he died, with it being announced that the examination of Navalny's body would take 14 days. His wife Yulia, his mother and other allies have said this is a ploy from Moscow to allow any toxic substance in his body to dissipate. There is good reason to suspect Navalny was poisoned: His allies previously accused Russian officials of trying to poison him with a nerve agent in August 2020. After being poisoned, Navalny was evacuated to a hospital in Germany. The use of a Novichok nerve agent was later confirmed in a lab Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal survived falling very ill after being poisoned Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were found on a bench together close to Salisbury Cathedral on the afternoon of March 4 having been poisoned with nerve-agent Novichok Navalny was flying to Moscow from the Siberian city of Tomsk when he collapsed in the aisle. The plane made an emergency landing in Omsk where he spent two days in a hospital before he was transferred to Germany. Once there, doctors determined he had been poisoned with a strain of Novichok - a nerve agent developed by the Soviet Union and Russia between 1971 and 1993. Specialists found traces of the nerve agent on Navalny's underwear and clothes, including his belt, while German special services suggested he could have been poisoned by Novichok in the form of a power dissolved into a liquid, most likely the tea he drank at the airport. German experts later concluded that only Russian special services could have used such a 'deadly and complex poison' in the attempt on his life. Russia previously claimed that it had destroyed its stockpile of the poison - which its scientists claim is the deadliest nerve agent ever made. However, the nerve agent reared its ugly head in an unlikely place in 2018: the small cathedral city of Salisbury in the United Kingdom. There, former Russian intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned by the nerve agent and spent weeks in critical condition. They survived, but the attack later claimed the life of a British woman Dawn Sturgess and left a man, Charlie Rowley, and police officer Nick Bailey seriously ill. Authorities said they both were poisoned with the military grade nerve agent Novichok, carried in a small perfume or aftershave bottle which Sturgess and Rowley found in a park. Britain blamed Russian intelligence, but Moscow denied any role. British authorities identified two Russian nationals, using the names Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, as the suspects behind the attack and alleged that they were active officers in Russian military intelligence. Investigative journalism outlet Bellingcat went on to identify Boshirov as Colonel Anatoliy Chepiga, a highly decorated GRU officer, and Petrov as Dr. Alexander Yevgeniyevich Mishkin, a trained military doctor - also employed by the GRU. Both had previously received the Hero of the Russian Federation Award - Russia's highest state award, and both had been active in Ukraine in 2014. By the time they were charged by the UK, the pair were back in Russia. The pair went on Russian television to claim they had been visiting Salisbury as tourists, specifically to look at the city's cathedral spire and 14th-century clock. Putin called Skripal, a double agent for Britain during his espionage career, a 'scumbag' of no interest to the Kremlin because he was tried in Russia and exchanged in a spy swap in 2010. Skripal was not the only ex-Russian agent to be targeted in the UK. British authorities identified two Russian nationals, using the names Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, as the suspects behind the attack and and alleged that they were active officers in Russian military intelligence Investigative journalism outlet Bellingcat went on to identify Boshirov as Colonel Anatoliy Chepiga, a highly decorated GRU officer, and Petrov as Dr. Alexander Yevgeniyevich Mishkin, a trained military doctor - also employed by the GRU Investigators in protective gear are seen in England in 2018 following the Salisbury poisonings In 2006, Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko, a former agent for the KGB and its post-Soviet successor agency, the FSB, became violently ill in London after drinking tea laced with radioactive polonium-210. He died three weeks later. Litvinenko had been investigating the shooting death of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya and the Russian intelligence service's alleged links to organised crime. Before dying, Litvinenko told journalists the FSB was still operating a poisons laboratory dating from the Soviet era. A British inquiry found that Russian agents had killed Litvinenko, probably with Putin's approval, but the Kremlin denied any involvement. There have been other suspected cases of poisoning, too. In 2018, Pyotr Verzilov, a founder of the protest group Pussy Riot, fell severely ill and also was flown to Berlin, where doctors said poisoning was 'highly plausible.' He eventually recovered. Earlier that year, Verzilov embarrassed the Kremlin by running onto the field during the World Cup final in Moscow with three other activists to protest police brutality. His allies said he could have been targeted because of his activism. In 2006, Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko (pictured), a former agent for the KGB and its post-Soviet successor agency, the FSB, became violently ill in London after drinking tea laced with radioactive polonium-210. He died three weeks later Alexander Litvinenko, former KGB spy and author of the book 'Blowing Up Russia: Terror From Within' is photographed at his home in London, May 10, 2002 - two years before his death In 2018, Pyotr Verzilov, a founder of the protest group Pussy Riot, fell severely ill and also was flown to Berlin, where doctors said poisoning was 'highly plausible' Prominent opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza survived what he believes were attempts to poison him in 2015 and 2017. Pictured: Kara-Murza is handcuffed during an appeal hearing in Moscow, July 31, 2023 Journalist Yuri Shchekochikhin (undated) died of a sudden and violent illness in 2003 Prominent opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza survived what he believes were attempts to poison him in 2015 and 2017. He nearly died from kidney failure in the first instance and suspects poisoning but no cause was determined. He was hospitalised with a similar illness in 2017 and put into a medically induced coma. His wife said doctors confirmed he was poisoned. Kara-Murza survived, and his lawyer says police have refused to investigate. Last year, he was convicted of treason and sentenced to 25 years in prison. In January he was moved to a prison in Siberia and placed in solitary confinement over an alleged minor infraction. Numerous journalists critical of authorities in Russia have been killed or suffered mysterious deaths - including suspected poisonings. Their colleagues, in some cases, blamed someone in the political hierarchy. In other cases, the reported reluctance by authorities to investigate raised suspicions. Yuri Shchekochikhin, a reporter at the newspaper Novaya Gazeta, died of a sudden and violent illness in 2003. Shchekochikhin was investigating corrupt business deals and the possible role of Russian security services in the 1999 apartment house bombings blamed on Chechen insurgents. His colleagues insisted that he was poisoned and accused the authorities of deliberately hindering the investigation. Shootings The highest profile killing of a political opponent in recent years was that of Boris Nemtsov. Once deputy prime minister under Boris Yeltsin - Putin's predecessor - Nemtsov was a popular politician and harsh critic of Putin. On a cold February night in 2015, he was gunned down by assailants on a bridge adjacent to the Kremlin as he walked with his girlfriend. His death shocked the country. Five men from the Russian region of Chechnya were convicted for his killing, with the gunman receiving up to 20 years. But Nemtsov's allies said that was an attempt to shift blame from the government, and an investigation by journalists from Insider, Bellingcat and the BBC found he had been shadowed by FSB agents for almost a year before he was killed. The highest profile killing of a political opponent in recent years was that of Boris Nemtsov. Once deputy prime minister under Boris Yeltsin - Putin's predecessor - Nemtsov was a popular politician and harsh critic of Putin. He was gunned down in central Moscow in 2015 LEFT: Boris Nemtsov during the conference 'Do not play with the dictator' in Warsaw, Poland. RIGHT: Ganna Duritska, chief witness to the murder of Russian protest leader Boris Nemtsov Politkovskaya, another journalist at Novaya Gazeta - whose death Litvinenko was investigating - was shot and killed in the elevator of her Moscow apartment building on October 7, 2006 - Putin's birthday. She had won international acclaim for her reporting on human rights abuses in Chechnya. The gunman, from Chechnya, was convicted of the killing and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Four other Chechens were given shorter prison terms for their involvement in the murder. Like poisonings, shootings have not been contained to Russia's borders, either. In the summer of 2019, Zelimkhan Khangoshvili - a Georgian citizen who fought against Russia during the Chechen war in the early 2000s - was shot twice in the head at close range in a park in central Berlin. Alleged FSB agent Vadim Krasikov was jailed for life by a German judge, for what the judge called a 'painstakingly planned' hit job. They said Russian security services had provided Krasikov with a false identity, a fake passport and the means to carry out the assassination. Krasikov is the only suspected FSB agent to have been caught and convicted abroad for murder, and Moscow has attempted to include him in a prisoner exchange with the West on numerous occasions. Other notable shooting assassinations during Putin's reign as President include Movladi Baisarov, a Chechen warlord and former FSB special-task unit commander, who was shot dead on the street in central Moscow in 2006. Umar Israilov - the former bodyguard of Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov - was shot dead with two bullets to the head in Vienna in 2009. That same year, Sulim Yamadayev - Lieutenant Colonel of Special Battalion Vostok and a Chechen rebel commander from the First Chechen War - was shot in the neck and killed while in Dubai. Politkovskaya, a journalist at Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta was shot and killed in the elevator of her Moscow apartment building on October 7, 2006 - Putin's birthday A woman places flowers before a portrait of slain Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, in Moscow, October 7, 2009 on the third anniversary of the reporter's death Even since the death of Alexei Navalny, a shooting abroad has raised eyebrows. A Russian pilot who defected to Ukraine with a military helicopter is reported to have been found dead in Spain last week. Maxim Kuzminov flew his Mi-8 helicopter into Ukraine in August in a brazen operation, saying he opposed Russia's military offensive. The full details of the shooting only came to light this week, with a spokesman for Russia's GRU intelligence agency confirming to AFP news agency on Tuesday that Kuzminov had died without providing details. So far, Spanish authorities have refused to say if a bullet-riddled body found was his, but Spanish media - citing sources close to the investigation - have since Monday reported that a body of a man found riddled with bullets in the southeastern coastal town of Villajoyosa near Alicante last Tuesday was that of the defector. A judicial source told AFP that the body found at the entrance to a residential complex had identity papers which corresponded to a 33-year-old Ukrainian. Spanish police had initially been investigating the crime as a case of 'score-settling' in the area, which has a large Russian community, the source added. Authorities later located the man's burnt-out car in a nearby town, which his killers are suspected of having used to flee the scene, according to Spanish media reports. Kuzminov, who served in the 319th separate helicopter regiment based in Russia's far eastern Primorsky region, said in August he had secretly organized his defection for months with the Ukrainian intelligence services and called on other Russian servicemen to do the same. Two fellow servicemen on the helicopter were not aware of his plans and were killed when they tried to flee after it landed in Ukraine, according to the GRU. While the reports have not been confirmed by Spanish authorities, Moscow celebrated the news that Kuzminov had died. Kuzminov, 28, a known target of Russian death squads, was killed in an underground garage in Villajoyosa on February 13. Spanish Civil Guard officers are pictured at the scene 'This traitor and criminal became a moral corpse at the very moment when he planned his dirty and terrible crime,' Russian state news agencies quoted Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia's SVR foreign intelligence service, as saying. He did not confirm or deny any Russian involvement in the former pilot's death. In October, Russian state TV reported that Russia's GRU intelligence agency had 'been given the order' to eliminate Kuzminov. 'It's just a matter of time,' a journalist for Russia's Perviy Kanal said in a TV report after talking to Russian special forces, who claimed to be on the hunt for the 'traitor.' Unexplained deaths There have also been several reports of prominent Russian executives dying under mysterious circumstances, including falls from a great height. In 2013, Boris Berezovsky was found dead at his home in Ascot, UK - apparently hanged in his bathroom. Berezovsky was a former Kremlin insider who became a vocal critic of Putin's government, and who entered self-imposed exile in the UK in the early 2000s. Investigations and public inquiries were carried out into his death, but they did not establish anything beyond suicide being the cause of death. However, a German forensic scientist - hired by members of Berezovsky's family - said his examination of autopsy photographs had led him to conclude that the Russian had not killed himself. A number of Berezovsky's associates have also died under suspicious circumstances in the United Kingdom. Georgian oligarch and Berezovsky's business partner Badri Patarkatsishvili died mysteriously in 2008 - in Leatherhead, Surrey. He had close ties to Roman Abramovich, Alexander Litvinenko, Mikheil Saakashvili and Putin himself. In 2018, Nikolai Glushkov was found dead in New Malden, London - just one week after the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury. He too was a critic of the Kremlin, with a coroner in 2021 ruling that Glushkov was unlawfully killed, and that his death was made to look like a suicide. Yukos oil founder Yuri Golubev also died in London, in 2007. There have also been several unexplained deaths in Russia. Just last year, in February 2023, defence official Marina Yankina, 58, was found dead after plunging 160ft from a tower block window. She is believed to have fallen from the 16th floor to her death. Ms Yankina was a key figure in the funding of Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine as head of the financial support department of the Ministry of Defence for the Western Military District, which is closely involved in the dictator's invasion. And in 2022, a string of deaths raised suspicions. Ravil Ulfatovich Maganov, a Russian oligarch and chairman of national oil company Lukoil, allegedly 'died after falling from a sixth-floor window at the Moscow Central Clinical Hospital' on September 1 2022, reports said at the time. Ravil Ulfatovich Maganov, a Russian oligarch and chairman of national oil company Lukoil, allegedly 'died after falling from a sixth-floor window at the Moscow Central Clinical Hospital' on September 1 2022, reports said at the time Marina Yankina (pictured), 58, was discovered by a passerby at the entrance of a house on Zamshina Street in St Petersburg in 2022. She is believed to have fallen 160ft to her death He had reportedly been hospitalised for a heart attack, with Lukoil saying he 'passed away following a severe illness'. However, Russia's TASS news agency reported his death as a suicide, and said he had been taking antidepressants. Russia news site Baza suggested Maganov - a Putin critic - may have fallen from a balcony, and claimed CCTV footage was not available because cameras had been 'turned off for repairs'. This only added to suspicions around his death, which came months after Lukoil's board of directors issued a statement calling for a quick end to Putin's invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. There were several other unexplained deaths that year. Ivan Pechorin, 39, director of the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation 'fell overboard' from his yacht in September; Pavel Pchelnikov, 52, a PR manager for the Russian Railways was shot dead in his Moscow apartment the same month; and Alexander Tyulakov, 61, a senior Gazprom executive found hanged at his house. And in another case a mobile phone multi-millionaire and his wife were found stabbed to death, with the official version of events raising questions. Naked Yevgeny Palant, 47, and his wife Olga, 50, both Ukrainian-born, were found with multiple knife wounds by their daughter Polina, 20. Immediate briefing to the media claimed the woman took her own life in a jealous rage after Palant said he was leaving her. Yet this was strongly disputed by the couple's best friend. Plane Crash A plane crash last August which killed Yevgeny Prigozhin and top lieutenants of his Wagner private military company came two months to the day after he launched an armed rebellion that Putin labeled 'a stab in the back' and 'treason.' While not critical of Putin, Prigozhin slammed the Russian military leadership and questioned the motives for going to war in Ukraine. A US intelligence assessment found that the crash that killed all 10 people aboard was intentionally caused by an explosion, according to US and Western officials. A plane crash last August which killed Yevgeny Prigozhin (pictured in Russia in 2016) and top lieutenants of his Wagner private military company came two months to the day after he launched an armed rebellion that Putin labeled 'a stab in the back' and 'treason' Images showed Progozin's plane plummeting to earth two months to the day after he led an attempted coup against the Kremlin A US intelligence assessment found that the crash that killed all 10 people aboard was intentionally caused by an explosion, according to US and Western officials Pictured: A portrait of Yevgeny Prigozhin lays at an informal memorial next to the former 'PMC Wagner Centre' in St. Petersburg, Russia on August 24, 2023 The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to comment. One said the explosion fell in line with Putin's 'long history of trying to silence his critics.' Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, rejected allegations the Kremlin was behind the crash. 'Of course, in the West those speculations are put out under a certain angle, and all of it is a complete lie,' he told reporters. In his first public comments after the crash, Putin appeared to hint there was no bad blood between him and Prigozhin. But former Kremlin speechwriter turned political analyst Abbas Gallyamov said: 'Putin has demonstrated that if you fail to obey him without question, he will dispose of you without mercy, like an enemy, even if you are formally a patriot.' However, Osechkin - founder of the Gulagu.net group which gathers testimony from prisoners and workers in Russia's notorious jails, is not convinced that Navalny was killed by any of the above methods. He says that authorities would have been able to kill Navalny in any way they desired, and would not have wanted to 'leave a trace in his body and would lead directly back to Putin'. He claims that Navalny had been forced to spend between two and a half to four hours in an open-air solitary confinement space where temperatures could dip to minus 27C the day before his death. Prisoners are normally kept outdoors for no more than an hour and in far less extreme conditions. 'I think that they first destroyed his body by keeping him out in the cold for a long time and slowing the blood circulation down to a minimum,' Osechkin explained. 'And then it becomes very easy to kill someone, within seconds, if the operative has some experience in this.' The single punch, an assassination technique reputedly used by KGB special forces to avoid leaving any indication of cause of death, is then said to have been used. Before becoming Russian leader, Putin famously served for some 15 years in the KGB as a foreign intelligence officer, retiring in 1990 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. Alexei Navalny was likely killed by a single punch to the heart, a technique used by the KGB, it has been claimed Mr Navalny's family has been told that they cannot have access to his body for another two weeks. Osechkin said that he believes the presence of FSB officers at the prison where Navanly died to be evidence that he was murdered by the Kremlin. He added: 'From what I know from my sources, it was a special operation that had been prepared several days in advance.' 'It was a command from Moscow because without Moscow it would not have been possible to dismantle the cameras in the way that they did.' An 18-year-old college student in Texas is facing charges of encouraging his 'charismatic and witty' girlfriend to take her own life, which she did in November 2023 in Frisco, Texas, just outside of Dallas. Ellyse Suarez, 17, was found dead in a pond in a popular park on November 20. Her cause of death has not been made public. This week, her on-again off-again boyfriend Zander Tashman was arrested in relation to her passing. In a heartbreaking new interview, Suarez's mother, Azucena Massey, told NBC Dallas-Fort Worth that her daughter and Tashman were close. Massey said that she did not know of his alleged involvement in the death until police investigators came to her home and told her. 'Its scary in a way because it makes me question, do I even want to know? Is it going to make me more angry? Because I dont want to feel angry when I think about my daughter,' Massey said. The grieving mother said that she knew her daughter was battling depression around the time of her death. Massey warned parents to take their children's mental health serious because 'you might not get that tomorrow.' She said that she got her daughter professional help before her death, but it was apparently too late. Ellyse Suarez, 17, was found dead on November 23 in a pond in Frisco, Texas, just over a month shy of her 18th birthday Her on-again off-again boyfriend Zander Tashman, 18, is a honor roll student at Collin College. His family lawyer reacted angrily to the charges being leveled against him Suarez was found here, at Frisco Commons Park, police have not disclosed her cause of death In heartbreaking obituary, Suarez was described as someone who 'was strong in her own beliefs and would never leave anyone behind or left alone.' 'She was never afraid to speak her mind, especially when she felt others needed a voice and often was the first to stand up for others and defend what was right.' Ellyse had a dark sense of humor which added to her uniqueness and sarcasm was like a second language,' the tribute goes on. The obituary talks about her love of playing cards, something she used to make friends, her love of animals and her kindness. Her beloved four year old bull terrier Mexi passed away just prior to her death. Her funeral was held on December 1, she would have turned 18 on January 1. Despite knowing about her depression, Massey said that she didn't understand what her child was going through. 'I dont think I understood it at all. I didnt understand her reasoning for sadness. I didnt understand her reasoning for being depressed,' Massey said. During that interview, Massey said that she knew that Tashman and her daughter were speaking in the period before her death. '[The relationship] was something that was very meaningful to her. Something that she wanted to work out so dearly that maybe she made decisions that she wouldnt have made on a regular day,' she said. Massey also had a message for those with children who are struggling with their mental health. 'Dont think that youre going to talk it over and have a conversation and think that everything is going to be ok tomorrow. You might not get that tomorrow.' Suarez's mother said that her daughter came to her before her death and said that she was suffering from depression Suarez's mother, Azucena Massey, remains so grief stricken, she did not want her face shown on television during a recent interview 'She was never afraid to speak her mind, especially when she felt others needed a voice and often was the first to stand up for others and defend what was right,' Suarez's obituary read Tashman was arrested Sunday and if convicted could face up to two years in prison and a fine of $10,000 According to Tashman's LinkedIn page, he's a student a Collin College in Frisco where he's due to graduate in 2025. In January 2024, he was named on the school's honor roll, maintaining a grade point average of 4.0. If convicted of a role in Suarez's death, Tashman could face up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. In a statement to NBC DFW, his lawyer, Reynie Tinajero, lashed out at authorities. 'Zander and his family wish this horrible tragedy had never taken place either. Im sorry authorities made a poor and probably emotional choice to blame Zander and to do so in a public way. Well be making our case in a court of law.' 'Zander is an exemplary college student with no prior history of criminal behavior. Zander is innocent,' the attorney said. Suarez's body was found in Frisco Commons Park which prompted an 'exhaustive investigation' which resulted in Tashman's arrest, police in Frisco said. Tashman was taken into custody on Sunday and held on a bond of $10,000. As the controversial Julian Assange faces the High Court, this may be his last chance to avoid extradition to the US where he could be the first person to ever be convicted under The Espionage Act. Last month, the UK High Court confirmed that his public hearing would take place on 20 and 21 February. If extradited, Assange, 52, faces a sentence of 175 years. The Wikileaks founder has been held in HMP Belmarsh in London since April 2019, after being forcibly removed from Ecuador's embassy when his seven-year diplomatic asylum was revoked. As his trial goes on, MailOnline documents Julian Assange's main WikiLeaks revelations - particularly the video that brought WikiLeaks into the spotlight. WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange leaves Westminster Magistrates Court in London, Britain January 13, 2020 The video that made WIkileaks' name shows footage of US Apache helicopters opening fire in Baghdad, Iraq. In 2010, WikiLeaks released the footage in a 39-minute video titled Collateral Murder. It was first released during a press conference on April 5 in the US National Press Club and WikiLeaks claimed that the footage showed the 'murder of Iraqi civilians and two Reuters journalists'. They also claimed that the source was 'a number of military whistleblowers'. The video showed the air-to-ground strikes take place by two US military helicopters in Al-Amin al-Thaniyah, New Baghdad, following the US' invasion of Iraq, during the Iraq insurgency. A crew fired on a group of civilians and killed several, casualties including two Reuters journalists, Iraqis Saeed Chmagh and Namir Noor-Eldeen, before laughing and mocking them. A second strike was directed at a van who was driven by Saleh Matasher Tomal, a man who was helping the wounded Chmagh. The two men were killed and two of Tomal's children were seriously injured. Pictures from the footage of airstrikes in Iraq by the US Army. In 2010, WikiLeaks released footage in a 39-minute video titled Collateral Murder Pictured above is the late Namir Noor-Eldeen, an Iraqi war photojournalist who was killed by the US Army during the Iraq insurgency following their invasion of Iraq The third and final strike saw the US pilots watch people approach a building before attacking the site with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. Throughout the video, casualties included journalists and children, leading to between approximately 12-18 civilian deaths. US chat show host Stephen Colbert accused Assange of editorialising by titling the video Collateral Murder - an accusation Assange agreed with. In the years that followed the group ublished a series of leaks provided by US Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning. The leaks included a total of 75,000 documents relating to the war in Afghanistan and approximately 390,000 army field reports relating to the Iraq war. In 2011, Assange published the Guantanamo Files after receiving intel from Manning, a year after she leaked war logs from Afghanistan and Iraq. The 779 secret documents detailed the treatment of prisoners held captive in the Cuban military prison. They included classified assessments and interviews written by the Pentagon's Joint Task Force Guantanamo. The confidential documents were clearly marked as 'secret' and also labelled NOFORN - not releasable to foreign nationals. An army soldier stands at the entrance to Camp Delta where detainees from the U.S. war in Afghanistan live, on April 7, 2004 in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba The documents, which were thought to have been released by Manning in 2010 revealed the harsh conditions that detainees were allegedly put through, and also alleged that many were wrongfully convicted. Manning was jailed for 35 years for leaking the files before Barack Obama cut her sentence in 2017 and freed her. WikiLeaks also exposed members of the BNP and sensitive details in 2009 - the British National Party. This included members' phone numbers and addresses in addition to their names. Thousands of names were included and the source and then-chairman of BNP Nick Griffin claimed the anonymous source who leaked the information was a former senior employee. Members included police officers, religious leaders, doctors, and teachers. British Police officers are prohibited from joining the BNP and at least one officer was expelled from the force as a result of the leak. Taekwondo master has been charged with three counts of murder A taekwondo master has been charged with three counts of murder over the deaths of a woman, her estranged husband and a seven-year-old boy in western Sydney. Police charged Kwang Kyung Yoo, 49 with the alleged triple murder of Min Cho, 41, her husband Steven, 39, and a seven-year-old boy on Wednesday night. He remains at Westmead Hospital under police guard and will face a bedside court hearing on Thursday. The charges were laid almost 48 hours after Yoo turned up at the hospital at night suffering apparent stab wounds to his chest, arms and stomach. Police will allege he strangled Ms Cho and the boy at his North Parramatta taekwondo centre after classes ended on Monday night before fatally stabbing her estranged husband at the couples Baulkham Hills home. Yoo underwent surgery on Tuesday before he was arrested later that night. Police charged Kwang Kyung Yoo, 49 with the alleged triple murder of Min Cho, 41, her husband Steven, 39, and a seven-year-old boy Shocked parents have since revealed how the taekwondo master seemed completely normal and calm as he cheered on students just hours before he allegedly slaughtered an entire family. Yoo, who owns Lion's Taekwondo and is also known as Master Lion, ran classes at his martial arts studio on Monday night, just as he has every week for several years. A mother, who wished to remain anonymous and whose son was in one of the last classes he ran that night, said she was astonished to learn about the allegations. Master Lion gave my son his green belt and certificate around 4.30pm on Monday, she said. He hugged my son and gave him words of encouragement about coming to class consistently.' The mother said her son has been attending the taekwondo centre three times a week for the past year. During that time, Master Yoo has been nothing but a great role model for the kids, she said. He would pick a group of children up from a local school after class and walk them to the studio for training and also held school holiday programs. He was really good with children, she said. During the holidays, he would run programs from 9.30am to 2.30pm. The kids would run around, play with nerf guns, burn off some energy, it was great. Yoo was treated at a hospital for numerous injuries but was later arrested and charged with the alleged murder of of Min Cho, 41, her husband Steven, 39, (both pictured) and a boy, 7 Police will allege Yoo, known as 'Master Lion', strangled Ms Cho and the boy at his taekwondo studio (pictured) in on Monday night Just hours prior, Yoo was teaching Taekwondo at the same studio and awarded a six-year-old student his green belt and 'hugged him' The mother said Master Yoo (pictured) had been nothing but a great role model for the kids and would walk them to classes from their homes Police will allege Yoo strangled Ms Cho and the boy sometime between 5.30pm and 6.30pm before driving her white BMW X5 to her home in Baulkham Hills. Yoo is accused of then fatally stabbing her husband during an 'altercation' at the home. Around 11.50pm, he then allegedly drove to Sydney's Westmead Hospital covered in blood, where he was treated for knife wounds to his chest, arms and stomach. Police discovered Mr Chos body on Tuesday morning after receiving a concern for welfare report. Yoo, who owns Lion's Taekwondo and is also known as Master Lion, ran classes at his martial arts studio on Monday night, just as he has every week for several years Further inquiries led them to the taekwondo studio, where the woman and boy were found around midday Friends of the alleged victims broke their silence as tributes began to flow for the Chos and the little boy. One friend, who is currently overseas, told Daily Mail Australia she was heartbroken and shocked to hear of the trios deaths. Another friend, Ruebert Tandog, said he knew Mr Cho for 12 years after they met while working together at a construction company. He described Mr Cho as intelligent and a proud father. He was a gentleman. Easy to talk to, Mr Tandog said. He has always come across as a straight shooter. Mr Tandog said Mr Cho doted on his son, with his social media filled with pictures of them spending time together. Our conversations would always start off with what the kids were doing, he said. Police were led to the Taekwondo studio after discovering Mr Cho's body at a home in North Parramatta where they allege Yoo strangled Ms Cho and the boy (pictured, police at the scene) Mr Tandog said the little boy loved martial arts and had been studying the sport for at least two years. Detectives were seen scouring the neighbourhood around Yoo's home in North Kellyville, in Sydney's north-west, as the investigation into the tragedy continued on Wednesday. A shocked neighbour said Yoo, his wife and their children - a girl, 12, and boy, 8 - seemed like a 'normal family'. The last time he saw Yoo was on Saturday when the Taekwondo master was outside mowing his lawn. 'They are very quiet, but very nice,' he said. 'He seemed quiet and usually kept to himself. But overall, there was no noise, no fighting, nothing. As investigations continue, anyone with information is urged to contact police. Prince William's unprecedented intervention in the Middle East crisis may have been requested or influenced by the Foreign Secretary, royal biographer Tom Bower has claimed. The Prince of Wales waded into the Gaza war by calling for an end to the fighting 'as soon as possible' in an extraordinary statement. William last night highlighted the desperate need for more humanitarian aid for the civilians of Gaza and, notably, called on Hamas to release its remaining Israeli hostages. The royal's carefully-chosen words are the strongest yet by a senior royal in response to Israel's devastating military action in Gaza following the sickening terror attacks of October 7. Mr Bower has now suggested that Lord Cameron's 'hand' may have played a role in the intervention. The Foreign Secretary has previously urged Israel to implement a 'permanent ceasefire', sparking outrage among supporters of the Israeli offensive against Hamas. And in a letter to MPs, Lord Cameron warned of the 'devastating humanitarian impacts' of an Israeli invasion of Rafah. Speaking on GB News, Mr Bower told Nigel Farage: 'I see the hand of Lord Cameron in all this, who somehow has shifted into the side of telling Israel to stop to seek peace. But of course what Lord Cameron doesn't understand is you can't have peace with Hamas, which is dedicated to the destruction of Israel and the murder of every Jew that lives in Israel. Prince William 's call for an end to the fighting in Gaza may have been requested by Lord Cameron, royal biographer Tom Bower (pictured) has claimed Lord Cameron has told Israel to stop and think over its planned Rafah offensive as he warned of the 'devastating humanitarian impact' And Prince William last night called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement the future king said the 'terrible human cost' of the conflict had seen 'too many killed' 'There is no peace possible with people who are intent on the Final Solution Mk II and so I think it's been a disaster for Prince William to get involved in this. 'I think that his officials in Kensington Palace should have warned him to stay out of it, because it can only end badly.' In a letter to the Commons foreign affairs committee chairman Alicia Kearns, Lord Cameron said Israel must 'stop and think' about the repercussions of a military offensive. Mr Bower added that William should not have got involved on the eve of today's crunch Commons ceasefire debate. Speaking to Nigel Farage on GB News, he continued: 'There is no peace with Hamas. It is a terrorist organisation intends on destruction and murder. So, what on earth Prince William's advisors thought of adopting Lord Cameron's view and the government's view, it beggars belief where this could end up. 'Of course, the Queen would never have said anything like this. I don't even think that Prince Charles in his most reckless interventions into politics, at this very moment on the eve of the vote tomorrow, on the on the way the United Nations voted today, would have contributed to this debate. 'Prince William should have been silent. Nobody needs his contribution on this issue and by intervening, he has made that whole problem far worse, because he's politicised the whole issue as far as the monarchy is concerned. 'What on earth is Prince William doing getting involved in this very, very messy, controversial issue?' The Foreign Office has been contacted for comment. Palestinians search for bodies and survivors among the rubble following Israeli airstrikes on the west of Al Nusairat refugee camp (February 20) Israeli chiefs are understood to have been caught off by the prince's intervention and The Telegraph reports they consider his public statement to be naive. The newspaper claims they are 'dismayed' but do not want to risk clashing with Britain's future King. It comes ahead of a crunch vote in the Commons today on a second SNP-led motion for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Last night, the UK Government put forward an amendment to counter the SNP's ceasefire motion in a move that could expose Labour splits over conflict. Labour had looked to avoid another possible rebellion over the Israel-Hamas war by tabling its own amendment to the SNP motion. Sir Keir Starmer's party yesterday publicly shifted its stance to back a call for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire', giving MPs who were unhappy with the leadership's previous handling of the issue a wording to rally behind. But the Government's decision to table its own counter-amendment to the motion increases the likelihood that the Commons Speaker will not choose the Labour amendment for debate today. It could leave Labour MPs with the choice between voting for the Government's position, which does not go as far as calling for an immediate ceasefire, and the SNP's stance. The debate will be going on as thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators are expected to take part in a rally in Parliament Square on Wednesday. Lisa Nandy, shadow international development minister, said Labour's proposal for a ceasefire differs from the SNP's by emphasising that it must be 'two-sided'. She told Good Morning Britain: 'On the question of immediate ceasefire, there's no difference. We have used the language of our international 'Five Eyes' partners Australia, Canada and New Zealand who over the last few days have called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. So far, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry, almost 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza and a further 1.7million displaced. Pictured: Palestinians search for bodies and survivors (Feburary 20) 'We think that adds weight to those calls, that the world is speaking with one voice as the ground invasion of Rafah is imminent and it must be averted. 'But there are significant differences between our proposition and the SNP's. We are clear that any ceasefire by definition must be two-sided, that Israel can't be expected to lay down its weapons if Hamas doesn't observe the terms of that ceasefire. 'The SNP motion is vague, whether deliberately or otherwise, on that point and we think it's extremely important that we send that message.' She added that Labour's amendment also included a 'political horizon and a pathway to peace' in the long-term, which the SNP motion did not. Prince William's public statement also came ahead of a visit by the Prince of Wales to the British Red Cross in London to discuss the spiralling humanitarian crisis in Gaza and beyond. His statement was issued with the knowledge of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and welcomed by Downing Street, which said his 'measured' call for an end to the fighting was in line with the Government's position. Royal aides emphasised that it was the 'extent of the human suffering that is on display which had led him to make the statement he has today'. They would not confirm whether it had the backing of the King. But father and son did meet in Norfolk at the weekend, where Charles is recuperating from cancer treatment. However, the statement also puts the heir to the throne at risk of accusations of meddling. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted calls to halt his military action, making clear that he will not stop until Hamas, which is classed as a terror organisation by the UK Government, is destroyed and Gaza is demilitarised. He is now planning to invade the city of Rafah, a move which the United States has condemned. And today sees a contentious, and highly emotive, debate in Parliament over the conflict. Last night some Tory MPs criticised William, with suggestions that he risked undermining 'the underlying principle of our constitutional monarchy'. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said today's intervention was evidence that William was following elements of his father Charles' 'outspoken' approach to issues of the day. Pictured: The King attends this Sunday's service Israel's government spokesman Eylon Levy issued a more diplomatic response to the Prince's intervention, saying: 'Israelis of course want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible, and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the 7 October atrocities is dismantled. 'We appreciate the Prince of Wales' call for Hamas to free the hostages. We also recall with gratitude his statement from 11 October condemning Hamas's terror attacks and reaffirming Israel's right of self-defence against them.' Sources close to the heir to the throne acknowledged that the issues surrounding the crisis are highly politicised. But they stressed that having undertaken a well received visit to both Israel and the West Bank in 2018, William had been following events closely. Veteran diplomat who is advising heir to the throne Senior diplomat David Hunt accompanied the Prince of Wales on a visit to the headquarters of the British Red Cross yesterday. Mr Hunt joined Prince William's team last summer as a special adviser on foreign affairs from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The married father-of-two has more than 20 years of international experience. He joined the Foreign Office in 2001 from the private sector. His experience includes a three-year stint as the ambassador to Lithuania and he was the consul general to the Kurdistan region of Iraq for over a year, according to his LinkedIn profile. Prior to these roles, Mr Hunt was the consul general in Washington and worked for two years as a deputy director at the Foreign Office. Advertisement They said he had thought 'long and hard' about whether to say anything, but felt the overwhelming humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region required him to speak out. So far, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry, almost 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza and a further 1.7million displaced, out of a population of two million. Hamas murdered almost 1,200 Israeli and foreign nationals on October 7, and took almost 250 hostages. Royal aides insisted that William's words should not be taken as a call for an immediate ceasefire or a comment on the issue of a 'two state' solution, but as an instinctive reaction to monumental loss of life both as a human being and 'as a father'. Many royal insiders see the statement as an example of William's distinct vision for the monarchy and his desire to speak his mind on the issues that matter. Sources close to the prince have long told the Mail that he believes the institution 'needs to better explain its own thinking, particularly in terms of its place in the world'. The Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis shared William's statement online and wrote: 'Since his visit to the region in 2018, the Prince of Wales has shown a deep concern for the well-being of all those affected by the conflict in the Middle East and his words of compassion today, which I welcome, are yet further evidence of this' However, Tory peer Stewart Jackson described the Prince's intervention as 'ill-timed and ill-judged'. Conservative MP Andrew Percy, vice-chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on anti-Semitism, said: 'The underlying principle of our constitutional monarchy is that members of the Royal Family do not engage in contentious political issues of the day on which there are divergent and strongly held beliefs in this country.' Former Ukip leader Nigel Farage said on X, formerly Twitter: 'I'm not sure that our future King should be doing this. He should stick to the Baftas.' William's visit to the Red Cross was one of two engagements the other to a synagogue next week designed to recognise 'human suffering' from all sides as a result of the current conflict. The Prince of Wales listened today to Pascal Hundt, senior crisis manager with the International Committee of the Red Cross, dialling in from Gaza 'Their Royal Highnesses hold all the victims, their families and their friends in their hearts and minds,' a spokesperson previously said on behalf of William and Kate, pictured During the visit William spoke via video link to Pascal Hundt, senior crisis manager with the International Committee of the Red Cross, who is currently in Gaza. As he left the building there were two cries of 'free Palestine' from an otherwise enthusiastic crowd. No 10 was informed in advance of the prince's statement, and the Prime Minister is said to have told colleagues that the points made by William reflected his own views. A Whitehall source said the prince's comments would add momentum to the search for peace. 'Whenever the Royals speak, people listen,' the source said. The Met is deploying a heavy police presence to Whitehall before thousands take part in a pro-Palestine protest outside Parliament this afternoon. The 'Stop the Genocide' rally will begin at around 4pm, with officers restricting those taking part to Parliament Square. Activists are also being urged to arrange to meet their MPs as they prepare to debate calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. Labour has publicly shifted its stance to back a call for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire', giving MPs who were unhappy with the leadership's previous handling of the issue a wording to rally behind. But the Government has put down its own amendment to the nationalists' proposal, raising the possibility that the Commons Speaker will not choose Labour's amendment for a debate. Twelve people were arrested at a pro-Palestine protest in central London on Saturday The 'Stop the Genocide' rally will begin at around 4pm, with officers restricting those taking part to Parliament Square Twelve people were arrested at a pro-Palestine protest in central London on Saturday for offences including inciting racial hatred, supporting a proscribed organisation and assaulting emergency workers. Protesters met at the south of Park Lane, holding banners calling for a 'ceasefire now' and chanting 'free, free Palestine', before congregating outside the Israeli embassy where speeches were made. Among the speakers was former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Palestinian ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot, who both called for 'justice' for the Palestinian people. Two people have now been charged following the demonstration. READ MORE - Keir Starmer calls for 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' in Gaza in desperate bid to avoid mass revolt by Labour MPs in vote tomorrow Advertisement Lucia Whittaker De Abrew, 34, from Derby has been charged with failing to remove a face covering when required, while 48-year-old Martin Prady, from Martock in Somerset, is accused of obstructing a constable in the execution of their duty. De Abrew will appear at Croydon Magistrates' Court on March 5 and Prady is due to attend Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on March 4. Five of the arrested have been bailed, while the others face no further action, the Metropolitan Police said. Tens of thousands are thought to have been at Saturday's demonstration, with Scotland Yard saying the 'overwhelming majority' were peaceful and acted lawfully. Police first arrested a woman on suspicion of support for a proscribed organisation, after she was allegedly spotted with a signpost which read 'Long Live The Intifada'. Later, while arresting a man for carrying an anti-Semitic banner, a punchup broke out in which officers were assaulted - leading to six more arrests. Two further arrests were made against demonstrators who refused to remove their face coverings. Other marchers, some of them children, carried placards declaring 'I thought Hitler was dead' and 'Turns out killing kids is okay, I'm scared for my life'. Prince William called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention on Tuesday In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement the future king said the 'terrible human cost' of the conflict had seen 'too many killed' Besides the familiar chant of 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,' another rallying cry was 'Occupation no more, Israel is a terror state'. Prince William called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention on Tuesday. His carefully-chosen words are the strongest yet by a senior royal in response to Israel's devastating military action in Gaza following the sickening terror attacks of October 7. They came ahead of a visit by the Prince of Wales to the British Red Cross in London to discuss the spiralling humanitarian crisis in Gaza and beyond. His statement was issued with the knowledge of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and welcomed by Downing Street, which said his 'measured' call for an end to the fighting was in line with the Government's position. William said: 'I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. 'I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It's critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. 'Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home.' Britain today slapped sanctions on the chiefs of the Arctic penal colony where Alexei Navalny was killed. Those in charge of Mr Navalny's detention in the brutal prison camp have been hit with asset freezes and travel bans, the Foreign Office announced. It follows the death of the vociferous Kremlin opponent at the remote IK-3 prison - known as 'Polar Wolf' - in the Arctic Circle. The Foreign Office pointed to the barbaric treatment of Mr Navalny, who spent his life to exposing corruption by Vladimir Putin's regime, while being held as a political prisoner. He was kept in solitary confinement for up to two weeks at a time, denied medical treatment, and forced to walk in -32C weather while detained at the penal colony. The UK is the first country to impose sanctions in response to Mr Navalny's death. It comes ahead of a likely confrontation between Foreign Secretary David Cameron and his Russian counterpart at a G20 meeting in Rio later today. Senior Conservative MP Alicia Kearns warned the action being taken by Britain in response to Mr Navalny's killing was not yet tough enough. 'We need to go further than this. A lot further,' said the chair of the House of Commons foreign affairs committee in response to today's sanctions. Britain slapped sanctions on the chiefs of the Arctic penal colony where Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed Mr Navalny is said to have fallen unconscious and died suddenly on Friday after a walk at the penal colony where he was serving a three-decade sentence The sanctions were announced ahead of a likely confrontation between Foreign Secretary David Cameron and his Russian counterpart at a G20 meeting Lord Cameron will attend the Brazil summit where he will confront Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov Lord Cameron said: 'It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him. 'FSB operatives poisoned him with Novichok in 2020, they imprisoned him for peaceful political activities, and they sent him to an Arctic penal colony. 'No-one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system. 'That's why we're today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months. 'Those responsible for Navalny's brutal treatment should be under no illusion - we will hold them accountable.' Mr Navalny, 47, is said to have fallen unconscious and died suddenly on Friday after a walk at the penal colony where he was serving a three-decade sentence. Western nations and Mr Navalny's supporters have said Mr Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. But the Kremlin has denied involvement and said claims the Russian President was responsible are unacceptable. The Foreign Office named six sanctioned individuals as Colonel Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, the head of the 'Polar Wolf' penal colony, as well as five deputy heads Sergey Korzhov, Vasily Vydrin, Vladimir Pilipchik, Aleksandr Golyakov, and Aleksandr Obraztsov. The six men are now banned from Britain and subject to an asset freeze preventing UK companies and individuals from dealing with them. Lord Cameron will attend the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in Brazil today where he will confront Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. He will condemn Mr Putin's continuing war in Ukraine and stress the need for nations to adhere to the rules-based international order when he speaks at the Rio summit. The Foreign Secretary said: 'We need to adapt international rules and institutions to the challenges we face today. This means reforming the rules-based international order, not shattering it. 'The Kremlin pays lip service to concepts like sovereignty, while openly undermining them. Unlike Russia, we match our words with actions.' Britain had already sanctioned 13 people in response to Mr Navalny's poisoning with Novichok in 2020. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke was today joined by her beaming mother as she received an award from Prince William for setting up a brain injury charity at Windsor Castle. The actress appeared to giggle as she spoke to the future King during the prestigious ceremony. Former Chancellor Sir Sajid Javid was also among those to be knighted by the Prince of Wales for his services to politics and public life, with his proud family watching on in the background. Wetherspoons boss Sir Tim Martin is also collecting honours at the investiture ceremony today. William, who is stepping up in his father King Charles' absence from royal duties amid his cancer battle, chatted warmly with attendees. It comes less than 24 hours after he released a public statement calling for the fighting in Gaza to end. Emilia Clarke and her mother Jennifer Clarke pose after being awarded MBEs Emilia Clarke beams as she shakes hands with the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle today Sajid Javid was among those to be knighted by Prince William at Windsor Castle today The former chancellor's proud family watched on as he was awarded the prestigious honour for his political and public services Clarke has been made an MBE alongside her mother Jenny as co-founders of SameYou, a brain injury recovery charity they established after the actress survived two brain haemorrhages. Clarke said that she felt 'ill-equipped' to be a normal person again after she almost died from a brain haemorrhage. She was made an MBE alongside her mother Jenny as co-founders of SameYou, a brain injury recovery charity they established after the actress survived two brain haemorrhages. The charity focuses on the rehabilitation of patients after they leave hospital. READ MORE: Wetherspoon boss and Brexit campaigner Tim Martin is handed a knighthood after Kemi Badenoch reportedly pushed for pub landlord to be honoured Advertisement Clarke had her first brain haemorrhage in 2011, a month after she had finished filming the first season of Game Of Thrones. She said the hardest part of her illness was coming home and realising she was on her own. 'You spend a month in hospital, every day they tell you you're going to die,' she said. 'And then you go home, and you have to live with that. 'I found that incredibly difficult, and my family found it incredibly difficult. 'You are so taken care of, and so supported, and then you are let out into the world. 'And it seems terrifying, and you feel like you are ill-equipped to be a normal person again because you have just been told that you are going to die every three seconds. 'That was the hardest adjustment, and then I did a film set and I said: 'Oh, this is mental anyway', so...' Clarke said William made her and her mother feel 'so comfortable' while he presented them with their honours. 'I think I underestimated the magical nature of being here and the ceremony of the whole thing,' she said. 'His Royal Highness William was just delightful and made us feel so comfortable.' Her mother said that William was 'very well briefed' about their charity and why they were there. Clarke joked that she thought her mother was going to ask the prince to be on the board of trustees. 'I thought she was going to ask him to be on the board of trustees, but she didn't,' she said. Game Of Thrones star Ms Clarke has been made an MBE alongside her mother Jenny as co-founders of SameYou Clarke smiling after being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire Clarke and her mother pose and smile after being awarded MBEs at Windsor Castle today Clarke said William made her and her mother feel 'so comfortable' while he presented them with their honours Clarke joked that she thought her mother was going to ask the prince to be on the board of trustees Her mother added: 'I nearly did.' The actress said that running a charity 'is one of the hardest things I've had to do'. 'There are times when it feels like an uphill struggle that you don't think you're going to reach the top of at any point,' she said. 'There are lots of dark moments like that when you run a charity, and I speak for most people who run a charity who feel the same way. 'So to get something like this... it gives you such a boost of energy and momentum.' Asked about her next project, Clarke said that she had a few new productions in the pipeline, including An Ideal Wife, a film about Oscar Wilde's spouse, Constance Lloyd. 'That's now happening next year,' she said. 'I am playing Oscar Wilde's wife.' She added: 'There's a huge amount that we don't know about her.' Among the first to be knighted was Sir Sajid, who served as chancellor under Boris Johnson. He entered the Commons as the MP for Bromsgrove in May 2010 with a majority of more than 11,000 and has increased his share of the vote in every election since. Taking on the roles of home secretary, chancellor and health secretary during his career, he also put himself forward for the Tory leadership twice. The Right Honourable Sir Sajid Javid is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle Sajid Javid shakes hands with Prince William and smiles as he is awarded a knighthood at Windsor Castle The former chancellor looked delighted to be awarded the prestigious honour from the Prince of Wales It was his resignation from Boris Johnson's cabinet, together with Rishi Sunak, that spelled the beginning of the end for the former prime minister's premiership. Sir Sajid had previously left his chancellor role abruptly in 2020 after being told he must sack all his advisers if he wished to keep his job. Elsewhere, Wetherspoons boss Sir Tim, who was a vocal Brexit supporter during the 2016 referendum campaign, has been recognised for his services to hospitality and culture. Sir Tim built up his pub group after buying his first venue in Muswell Hill, north London, in 1979. The Norwich-born businessman initially called it Martin's Free House but changed it to JD Wetherspoon the following year. The pub chain, known for its low pricing, floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1992 and continued a rapid expansion across the UK. Elizabeth Gregory (Betsy Gregory) is made an OBE by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle for services to dance Ms Gregory shakes hands with the Prince of Wales as she is awarded an OBE by the future King Dame Siobhain McDonagh is honoured for her parliamentary and political service Labours Siobhain McDonagh, a party stalwart who has been an MP since 1997, was also recognised Dame Siobhain McDonagh, wearing a glamorous pink dress, poses with her CBE Lydia Otter after being made an MBE for services to People with Autism and their Families in Oxfordshire Ms Otter poses with her MBE in the grounds of Windsor Castle this afternoon The first, a bleed on the brain, happened while she was working out in a north London gym in 2011. She founded the charity after she was shocked to find out how understaffed rehabilitation services were. Other people who will be recognised at the investiture ceremony include Labour MP Dame Siobhain McDonagh, for political and public service; director Betsy Gregory, for services to dance; and Lydia Otter, for services to people with autism and their families in Oxfordshire. Motorists' sneaking suspicions about parking rangers have all but been confirmed after secret internal documents were leaked. City of Sydney Council documents obtained by Seven News have revealed that inspectors are expected to be 'highly productive' and issue fines for a 'variety of offences'. Some of the 143 offences that fines can be issued for include stopping near a letter box on a nature strip, parking a ute with its flatbed tray over the sidewalk, while a poor park in your own driveway could set you back $283. The council has denied the goals are considered 'quotas' but admitted they are 'targets' which are updated with monthly productivity reports. The City of Sydney Council has been revealed to have given their parking rangers 'goals' for issuing parking fines that reflect how 'highly productive' they are (pictured) READ MORE: Driver fumes after being slapped with a massive fine for parking in a 'legal' spot Advertisement No other council in NSW came close to topping the parking fine amount issued by City of Sydney in 2022-23. The council made a whopping $33m of the $222m in parking fines issued statewide. Other councils that churned out parking fines included Parramatta (almost $13.3m) and Liverpool ($3.5m) Sydney woman Kate Meller claimed that she was fined $644 while parking in a disabled parking space outside of a hospital to help a friend going through labour. 'Her water has broken, she said 'the hospital is taking me in now as soon as you get here I'm going,' she told Seven News. Despite appealing the fine on compassionate grounds, she wasn't given any leniency and was forced to pay the fine. NRMA spokesperson Peter Khoury called for councils to be more transparent with how they issue fines. 'What you don't want is for the public to feel like they're going away from being parking officers and becoming salespeople and looking for ways to fine people,' he said. Among the numerous parking offences that can lead to a fine include stopping next to a fire hydrant while a poor park in someone's own carpark will set a driver back $283 The City of Sydney is one of 36 councils across NSW that have adopted a ticketless system of distributing fines and instead sending the fines through email. The system has been criticised for leaving drivers shortchanged as they can't gain evidence of them not causing an offence if they're made aware of it a week later. City of Sydney Council claimed that its system offered 'more information about your fine and allow you to make informed decisions'. 'It also improves safety for our rangers, who often face abuse and aggression from members of the public while doing their job,' its statement added. Daily Mail Australia contacted City of Sydney Council for comment. The NSW government is looking into how fines are reviewed. Former ambassador to Ukraine Bill Taylor has said that the arrest of a Russian-American ballerina is akin to Vladimir Putin giving a middle finger to the US. During an appearance on CUOMO on NewsNation, the diplomat was asked by Chris Cyomo if Ksenia Karelina's arrest for high treason was a way for Putin to show contempt for the US after he gave an interview to American provocateur Tucker Carlson. The dual citizen, from Los Angeles, was arrested on the same day in January that Putin sat down for his widely panned interview with Carlson. 'I do think he's giving that to the US, and to the Americans, and to anyone who opposes him,' Taylor replied when asked by Cuomo if Putin was giving Biden the Italian equivalent of a middle finger. 'That is what he has done, he has established a system of oppression that doesn't tolerate dissent, and that is what's going on here. During an appearance on CUOMO on NewsNation, former ambassador Bill Taylor was asked if Ksenia Karelina's arrest for high treason was a way for Putin to show contempt for the US Karelina is accused of fund raising for a pro-Ukrainian organization, she attained US citizenship in 2021 'This is about what's going on in Russia today - Putin is more repressive, more oppressively to anyone there, whether they be American or Russians, than any time in memory, going back to the Stalin times.' Taylor, who served under president George W. Bush, went on to say the US government needs to step in if it finds that Karelina was wrongfully detained by Putin's Federal Security Service. He added: 'If she's been illegally detained, then we go into high gear, we have people whose job it is to start figuring out how to get her back.' Karelina has been accused of fundraising for the Ukrainian cause by transferring $51.80 from an American bank account to Ukrainian charity based in NYC, Razom. Treason charges can carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison. Since 2023, 63 people have been charged with treason in Russia, 37 were found guilty. Karelina's detention comes amid international outcry over Alexei Navalny who died in a Russian gulag last week. Putin has been accused of assassinating the political rival and Joe Biden has joined with other world leaders in stating that the tyrant is 'responsible' for Navalny's death. A White House official told DailyMail.com: 'The White House and State Department aware of reports that a dual U.S.-Russia citizen has been detained in Russia. We are working to obtain more information and secure consular access to the individual.' The State Department currently has a Do Not Travel advisory to Russia specifically because of the risk of 'wrongful detentions.' On her Facebook page, Karelina says that she's from Yekaterinburg and that she studied ballet at the S. P. Diaghilev school. The dancer is accused of 'proactively collecting funds since February 2022 in the interests of a Ukrainian organization, which were subsequently used to purchase tactical medicine, equipment, weapons and ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine,' the FSB alleges. Karelina moved to the US after graduating from college in her homeland in 2013 On her Facebook page, Karelina says that she's from Yekaterinburg and that she studied ballet at the S. P. Diaghilev school Karelina was first arrested on charges of 'petty hooliganism,' for swearing 'In addition, the citizen in question repeatedly took part in public actions in support of the Kyiv regime while in the United States,' the agency added, reports The Moscow Times. Russian language outlet Mediazona reports that Karelina has been a US citizen since 2021 and that in 2023 she married an American man. Karelina graduated from Ural Federal University in 2013. Numerous posts on her Facebook page show her in Baltimore, Maryland, beginning in 2014. Mediazona reports that Karelina was first arrested on charges of 'petty hooliganism,' for swearing. While in custody, those charges were upgraded to 'high treason.' The outlet goes on to report that Karelina ceased posting on the Russian social media site VK on November 3, 2021 after posting a series of photos showing her gaining citizenship. On that profile, Karelina said that she studied at the University of Maryland in Baltimore. Razom, the NYC-based Ukrainian charity that she's accused of supporting, describes itself as 'contributing to the establishment of a secure, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine.' On her LinkedIn page, Karelina says that she works as a manager at Ciel Spa Beverly Hills, a role that she's been in since 2019. A talented violinist drowned after a 'flawed' underwater camera system at a swimming pool failed to show he was submerged for almost seven minutes. Dominic Hopkins, 57, the former leader of Norwich Philharmonic Orchestra, got into difficulty in the shallow end of the baths after suffering an epileptic fit. But he wasn't spotted by the three lifeguards on duty, despite two having feeds from nine underwater cameras. A Health and Safety Executive inspector told an inquest that the procedure staff had been taught to monitor the screens and then the pool meant they had barely half a second to glance at each picture. The problem was exacerbated by the position where Mr Hopkins slipped under the water, which meant he would have been too small to spot easily on the monitor. HSE inspector Garry Moon told the hearing: 'He would have appeared less than one inch in length [on-screen]. Accomplished violinist Dominic Hopkins (pictured) died after getting into difficulty while swimming at a university pool University of East Anglia's (UEA) Sportspark pictured (Google maps) 'If he had been in a different lane, this would have been a different situation.' Coroner Yvonne Blake recorded a narrative conclusion after hearing pools across the country, including the University of East Anglia's Sportspark facility in Norwich where Mr Hopkins had been exercising, had since adopted a different system to scan the water. She said: 'Mr Hopkins died as a result of multiple organ failure, secondary to drowning precipitated by an epileptic fit.' Experienced swimmer Mr Hopkins went to the pool almost every day to help with his Marfan syndrome, a disorder of the body's connective tissues for which he had undergone more than 20 operations. An epileptic, he wore a bright pink or blue swim cap which helped him stand out from the water. But on January 27, 2022, he fell unconscious after suffering a fit while using breaststroke to swim lengths. He wasn't spotted for six minutes and 30 seconds, despite being in just 1.2m (around 4ft) of water, Norfolk Coroner's Court heard. A female swimmer eventually realised something was wrong and dragged him out. Mr Hopkins was given CPR and rushed to Norfolk and Norwich Hospital by air ambulance where he died the following day. Giving evidence to the inquest, Mr Moon said Mr Hopkins' case was unusual because he had not been spotted 'for a very long time'. At the time, lifeguards were trained in an industry-wide procedure known as 10:20, which meant they would scan the pool for five seconds and then the 3.7in by 2.9in monitors with the underwater camera feeds for five seconds. If they spotted an incident, they then had 20 seconds to respond. This gave them just 0.625 seconds around twice the time it takes a human to blink to look at each screen before checking the pool again. Mr Hopkins was the leader of Norwich Philharmonic between 2008 and 2016. In a tribute the orchestra said: 'He was an exceptionally fine violinist and a passionate musician, much-loved by all of us' Mr Hopkins was also swimming in the least visible section of the pool, where he would have appeared no bigger than four-fifths of an inch long on the monitors, Mr Moon said. A 'blue hue' from the water would have further affected visibility. 'At the time, 10:20 was a well-used protocol but it was flawed,' Mr Moon added. Research had never been carried out into the method and, following research by the Royal Life Saving Society UK, it had been replaced by the 'natural scan method', the inquest was told. Sportspark had also upgraded its technology to Poolview Iris, an artificial intelligence system which detects when someone is struggling in the water. The danger Mr Hopkins was in would have been less obvious to observers because he was considered to be 'low risk' as he was swimming in the slow lane in the shallow end and appeared to be in a 'natural position' and didn't make any abrupt changes or noises. 'Generally, people at the bottom of the shallow end is not uncommon,' Mr Moon said. 'Even a lifeguard paying attention still could have missed him. He was difficult to see detection was hard.' Glare probably also played a part. A previous risk assessment had found there was 'significant glare' in the section where Mr Hopkins was swimming caused by the lights and windows. There were protocols to allow staff to ask for permission to walk the poolside if visibility was impaired but the glare was not considered severe enough for this to take place at the time Mr Hopkins went under the water. Lucy Holden, a friend of Mr Hopkins who attended the inquest, said: 'It just seems quite difficult to know that he was right in front of them and [would] not have been visible. Mr Hopkins was a familiar face on Norwich's busking scene during the 1980s when he performed with a classical music group on London Street 'So, I suppose the glare was there but they were unaware of it.' Mr Hopkins, the youngest of three brothers, led Norwich Philharmonic Orchestra from 2008 to 2016. In a tribute after his death, colleagues said: 'He was an exceptionally fine violinist and a passionate musician, much-loved by all of us.' He was born and raised in Norwich and studied maths at UEA, gaining a first class degree. He later took a master's in mathematic physics at King's College London. During the 1980s he was a familiar face in the city's busking scene, performing with a classical music group. He also spent time doing offshore surveying work on the beds of the North and Black Sea for the oil industry and in an aircraft surveying for diamonds in Botswana. UEA said after the inquest concluded yesterday: 'UEA Sportspark is deeply saddened by the passing of Dominic Hopkins. We would like to take this opportunity to pass our sincerest condolences to his family and friends. 'The safety of our pool users has, and always will be, our priority. 'Following this incident, a full investigation took place. Where required, steps were taken to strengthen and update existing procedures and new technology was introduced. 'The HSE investigated this incident and found that the UEA complies with good practice and adhered to the then current guidance.' This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Carlson's latest remarks are a far cry from his initial statement on Navalny's death which he decried as 'barbaric' adding 'No decent person would defend it' Tucker Carlson once again leaped to the defense of Russian President Vladimir Putin and claimed that anyone who thinks the brutal strongman was responsible for the untimely death of his main political opponent Alexie Navalny 'are idiots.' Carlson, 54, was speaking with fellow former Fox News host Glenn Beck on the latter's BlazeTV network when he made his remarks. 'Navalnys death during the Munich Security Conference, in the midst of disputes about aid to Ukraine, is definitely not beneficial for Russia. People who say Putin killed him are idiots,' Carlson said. Alexie Navalny died Friday in the Arctic penal colony where he was serving a 19-year sentence, Russias prison agency said. He was 47. His cause of death has not been made public. On Monday, Navalnys widow, Yulia, released a video accusing Putin of killing her husband and alleged the refusal to release his body was part of a cover-up. His widow has joined the chorus of western leaders who have laid the blame for the dissident's death at Putin's feet. Speaking about having been asked to comment about Navalny's death by DailyMail.com on Friday, Carlson said: 'I don't know anything about Navalny. I didn't know that he died. I didn't know anything,' after which he laughed manically. During his interview with former Fox News star Glenn Beck, Tucker Carlson those blaming Putin for Navalny's death as 'idiots' Carlson said that Navalny's death was not 'beneficial' to Russia During the interview, Beck also asked Carlson if he was ever afraid or intimidated while speaking with Putin 'Navalnys death during the Munich Security Conference, in the midst of disputes about aid to Ukraine, is definitely not beneficial for Russia. People who say Putin killed him are idiots,' Carlson said Carlson was largely criticized for his interview with Putin in which he failed push back on many of the despot's bizarre claims Carlson's most recent remarks are a fire cry from his statement in which he decried Navalny's treatment. In an exclusive statement to DailyMail.com, Carlson said: 'It's horrifying what happened to Navalny. The whole thing is barbaric and awful. No decent person would defend it.' In the wake of Carlson's comments to Beck, DailyMail.com has reached out to the host for further clarification as to what he felt was 'horrifying' about 'what happened to Navalny' and what was 'barbaric and awful' about it. His death came just days after Carlson conducted a 'soft ball' interview with Putin in Moscow. It subsequently emerged that on the day the interview took place, Putin's secret security force the FSB arrested dual Russian-American citizen Ksenia Karelina on swearing charges. During his interview with Beck, he asked Carlson: 'Did it ever cross your mind that, "I'm not in my home country. I'm saying this to a very powerful man who does do what he wants?" Were you ever worried. 'No. I wasn't worried for a single second I was there. I wasn't worried going over there, not because I trust the Russian government, I don't, but because my kids are grown, and like, I don't really care at this point. I feel protected. I say my prayers,' Carlson said. Talking specifically about Putin, Carlson said: 'I wasn't intimidated at all. I was annoyed a couple of times.' He described the dictator as 'interesting' but said he was also 'hostile.' Alexei leaves behind his wife Yulia (pictured) Russian police officers stand by the flowers near the Wall of Grief monument laid in memory of Alexei Navalny The Dancing with the Stars contestant added that he felt as though Putin's hostility to the west was caused be the west's 'rejection' of Russia. '[Putin is] very wounded by what he sees as the rejection of the west.' Adding that it makes him 'angry.' 'Russia moved into Eastern Ukraine because the Biden administration pushed them to. There's a war in Ukraine because the Biden administration wanted a war in Ukraine,' Carlson went on. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected the allegations of a cover-up, telling reporters that ''these are absolutely unfounded, insolent accusations about the head of the Russian state.' Putin hasnt commented publicly on Navalnys death. On Monday, he signed a decree promoting a number of law enforcement and military officials, including Valery Boyarinev, the first deputy chief of the State Penitentiary Service. Boyarinev, who received the rank of colonel-general, has been accused by Navalnys team of personally ordering restrictions on the opposition leader. Peskov denied there was any connection between Navalnys death and the new rank for Boyarinev. A view of the entrance of the IK-3 prison colony in the town of Kharp, in the Yamalo-Nenetsk region about 1,900 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Russia Navalnys death has deprived the Russian opposition of its best known and inspiring politician less than a month before an election that is all but certain to give Putin another six years in power. Many Russians had seen Navalny as a rare hope for political change amid Putins unrelenting crackdown on the opposition. In her Monday video, Yulia Navalnaya vowed to continue his fight against the Kremlin. On Tuesday, her account on X, where she had posted the video, was briefly suspended by the platform without explanation but later restored. Nex Benedict texted their family to tell them about three 'bullying' girls jumped them in a restroom a day before they died from alleged head trauma. Oklahoma teenager Nex, 16, died on February 8, a day after they were savagely attacked along with a trans student in a restroom at Owasso Public High School, according to the youngster's family. Now messages Nex sent to a family member after the fight, shared by Fox23, reveal that the teenager tried to stand up to their bullies. 'I got jumped at school. 3 on 1, had to go to the ER,' Nex wrote, adding: 'They had been bullying me and my friends and I got tired of it so I poured some water on them and all 3 came after me. School did not report to police.' Officers investigating Nex's death said that they were called to the hospital by the teen's family at around 3pm on February 7, but that no 911 call had been made by the school. Nex Benedict (pictured) passed away in hospital on February 8, a day after the alleged fight Now messages Nex sent to a family member after the fight, shared by Fox23, reveal that the teenager tried to stand up to their bullies Oklahoma teenager Nex, 16, died on February 8 after they were savagely attacked along with a trans student in a restroom at Owasso Public High School the day before, according to the youngster's family Nex was asked by the family member whether they were okay and the teen replied saying they were 'all good' and had some scrapes and bruises. They also added: 'If I'm dizzy or nauseous in the morning I might have a concussion.' Sue Benedict, Nex's biological grandmother and legal guardian, revealed that Nex was beaten by three older girls after they were bullied for a year. Ms Benedict told the Independent that Nex was badly beaten during the fight, which she said involved Nex being knocked to the ground and hitting their head, and suffered bruises over their face and eyes as well as scratches at the back of their head. She also said she was aware Nex, who she said saw themselves as neither male or female, was bullied for being gender fluid but that she 'didn't know how bad it had gotten'. The teen's guardian, Ms Benedict, described her child as a straight-A student, animal lover and a talented cook during a funeral service held on Thursday. 'I was so proud of Nex. They were going some place, they were so free,' she said. Ms Benedict said Nex had been bullied since the start of the 2023 school year, just months after Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt signed a bathroom ban bill, stipulating students must use the bathroom which aligns with their biological sex. Police were summoned to the hospital by Nex's family around 3.30pm on February 7, according to a police statement. Friends said Benedict went by the name 'Nex.' The teen was described as a nature lover and keen cook who adored their pet cat Zeus The incident reportedly involved the teen's head being repeatedly smashed on the floor of the school's restroom Nex Benedict (pictured) died on February 8, one day after going to the ER following an alleged fight in the school restroom The teen was discharged a short while later but rushed back in the next day after reportedly collapsing at home and later died. Police are yet to confirm if the death was related to the alleged fight. They are awaiting autopsy and toxicology results from the medical examiner's office, which will deliver the final verdict on cause of death. Detectives are currently interviewing witnesses to determine if any criminal charges will be filed. 'The Owasso Police Department will release all information required by law, but it is the Department's policy to not release incident reports for cases that are under active investigation when there is risk of compromising or harming the investigation,' the statement said. 'We understand that people are concerned about this incident and we can assure everyone that this incident is being taken seriously and is being investigated thoroughly. 'The Owasso Police Department offers our condolences to the family, friends, fellow students, and loved ones of the deceased student and we will do our best to discover the truth.' 'At first, I didn't feel anything. I couldn't. What am I supposed to feel at that point? Knowing that someone that I could have used to know, someone I used to walk in the halls with, someone I could have been to class with is no longer a part of our lives, no longer part of the community. It's a community that I love, and now she's gone,' school friend Alexandria Davidson told WYMT. Police are awaiting the results of an autopsy and toxicology report before they release a cause of death In a statement to local media Owasso Public Schools said it could not comment amid an ongoing investigation An obituary described the teen's love of nature and 'caring' disposition, especially towards beloved cat Zeus. '[Nex] enjoyed a variety of pastimes such as watching the Walking Dead, drawing, reading and playing Ark and Minecraft,' the notice read. The teen is survived by her grandparents Sue and Walter Benedict, as well as four sisters, two brothers and a niece and nephew, according to the obituary. A GoFundMe has also been set up to help the family cover funeral costs. In a statement Owasso Public Schools said that 'students were in the restroom for less than two minutes and the physical altercation was broken up by other students who were present in the restroom at the time, along with a staff member who was supervising outside of the restroom'. It added: 'Following district protocols, each of the students involved in the altercation was given a health assessment by a district registered nurse. 'Per district protocols, students needing further support are transported to a medical facility either by ambulance or by a parent/guardian, depending on the severity of the injuries and preference of the parent/guardian. 'While it was determined that ambulance service was not required, out of an abundance of caution, it was recommended to one parent that their student visit a medical facility for further examination. 'Per district protocols, the parents/guardians of students involved in a physical altercation are notified and informed of the option to file a police report should they choose. 'Should they choose to file a police report, school resource officers are made available to the parents/guardians either at that time or they can schedule an appointment, if they choose, at a later date. These practices were followed during this incident.' A Michigan waitress who was fired after being given a $10,000 tip refused to complain about her coworkers who complained about not getting a cut. Linsey Boyd was let go from the Mason Jar Cafe in Benton Harbor despite generously sharing the money with other eight coworkers. Boyd said in a now-deleted Facebook post that drama ensued after an anonymous customer left behind the $10,000 tip to honor a recently departed friend. Boyd collected the gratuity off a $32.43 bill, which saw the service staff walk away with around $1,200 each, causing the kitchen staff to feel snubbed. Boyd approached management to assist with calming the situation, but her bosses wanted to know who was directly causing the problems. Linsey Boyd was let go from the Mason Jar Cafe in Benton Harbor despite generously sharing the money with other eight coworkers The middle-aged man who left the tip wished not to be identified, but said he was in town for the funeral and intended to spread some cheer through the generous gratuity Boyd was let go from the Mason Jar Cafe in Benton Harbor following the gratuity Speaking to The Guardian, Boyd's lawyer Jennifer McManus told the outlet that Boyd said: 'Im not going to give any of their names because I dont want to create a bigger issue. I would just like some assistance in getting this resolved.' McManus told the outlet that her client was fired due to her unwillingness to reveal her angered co-workers' identities. Boyd said in a now-deleted Facebook post that drama ensued after the anonymous customer left behind the $10,000 tip to honor a recently departed friend. The middle-aged man in a dark suit wished not to be identified, but said he was in town for the funeral and intended to spread some cheer through the generous gratuity, according to Detroit Free Press. 'I just gave him a hug. I didn't even know his name at that point, but I gave him a hug. He then told me he left her a memorial of someone very dear to him and he wanted to do something kind and generous in her name,' Boyd told WSBT. What was supposed to be an upbeat story has taken a negative turn, as Boyd revealed in her viral post that she lost her job because of 'all of the drama, animosity and hurt' that ensured from the massive tip. Boyd then allegedly received a phone call from a manager at the restaurant, telling her that her place of work had retained attorneys to file a lawsuit against her unless she deleted her Facebook post. McManus told the Guardian that this was enough for her to delete the post, and the restaurant also threatened her 'for her full estate'. The restaurant owners Able Martinez and Jayme Cousins (pictured) said 'labor laws' limited what they could share about the termination of Boyd McManus added: 'She kind of chuckled [at that] and said, Well, good luck Im a waitress. Theres not an estate here.' The restaurant owners Able Martinez and Jayme Cousins said 'labor laws' limited what they could share but claimed that the termination of Boyd had nothing to do with the $10,000 tip. 'We cannot comment on the nature of her losing her job due to labor laws and to protect the staff involved,' the couple wrote in a Facebook post. 'However, I will say it had nothing to do with the tip. She did receive the entire tip, she did not pay taxes on it (the business did). Yes, she shared the tip at the request of the man that left it,' they continued. But Boyd offered her side of the story, saying she was asked to take mental health day as 'drama' unfolded inside the restaurant because of the tip. 'Drama ensued, and in an attempt to diffuse the situation and resolve any rumors, things became even worse,' she wrote. 'The staff that was not working the day of the $10,000 tip expected to be cut it and created an extremely dramatic work environment,' a post reads. The restaurant owners Able Martinez and Jayme Cousins said 'labor laws' limited what they could share but claimed that the termination of Boyd had nothing to do with the $10,000 tip Boyd offered her side of the story, saying she was asked to take mental health day as 'drama' unfolded inside the restaurant because of the tip According to Boyd, the management asked her to take another day off 'for things to settle down,' and did not respond to her text asking if she was told 'in a professional way to not come back.' Boyd was fired through a phone call, marking the first time since the age of 15 that she finds herself without a job. The restaurant owners have since refuted Boyd's claims but refused to go into details about why she was terminated. 'I know there is a lot going around that we let her go because of the tip and that's just not logical,' Cousins told WOOD-TV. 'We have a staff that has continued to work for us for years and college kids that come back every summer and we give chances after chances to our staff, so we clearly would not let someone go for no reason at all.' The owners wrote on social media that it was a purely business decision, emphasizing that such decisions are not 'made lightly or hastily'. 'We give donations for college funds for them, we kept them employed through Covid, we do everything in our power not to lose staff,' the owners wrote. Rishi Sunak today vowed to ensure victims of the Post Office scandal get the 'justice and compensation they deserve' in angry clashes with Sir Keir Starmer. The PM defended his response to wronged postmasters after the Labour leader sought to twist the knife over claims ministers dragged their heels on compensation. Sir Keir also demanded a Cabinet Office probe into a furious row between Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch and Henry Staunton, the former Post Office chairman. Mr Staunton has recently claimed he was told to stall compensation payouts to postmasters in order to help the Tories ahead of the general election. But Mrs Badenoch has angrily accused him of lying and spreading 'made-up anecdotes' after she fired him as head of the Post Office last month. Sir Keir seized on Mr Staunton's claims as he grilled Mr Sunak during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons this afternoon. Rishi Sunak vowed to ensure victims of the Post Office scandal get the 'justice and compensation they deserve' in angry clashes with Sir Keir Starmer The PM defended his response to wronged postmasters after the Labour leader sought to twist the knife over claims ministers dragged their heels on compensation The Horizon scandal saw more than 700 subpostmasters and subpostmistresses handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsu's faulty Horizon system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches. A public inquiry into what has been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British history is ongoing. Anger at the treatment of subpostmasters grew after an ITV drama returned the issue to the spotlight, which prompted the Government to last month promise a new law so those wrongly convicted are 'swiftly exonerated and compensated'. Sir Keir this afternoon challenged the PM to repeat the allegation that Mr Staunton was lying 'when he says he was told to go slow on compensation for postmasters and limp to the next election'. Mr Sunak refused to repeat Mrs Badenoch's claim about Mr Staunton, but highlighted how the Business Secretary asked him to quit the Post Office amid concerns about 'bullying'. The PM added: 'She asked Henry Staunton to step down after serious concerns were raised. She set out the reasons for this and the full background in the House earlier this week. 'But importantly we have also taken unprecedented steps to ensure that victims of the Horizon scandal do receive compensation as swiftly as possible and in full.' Sir Keir pressed Mr Sunak on fresh claims by Mr Staunton that he was told by a top civil servant to 'hobble' into the election on the issue of postmasters' compensation. The Labour leader said a bombshell memo released by the former Post Office chairman 'appears to directly contradict' the Government's insistence it never ordered a delay to compensation payments. 'I appreciate the Business Secretary has put the PM in a tricky position, but will he commit to investigating this matter properly?,' Sir Keir added. 'Including whether that categorical statement was correct, and why rather than taking those accusation seriously she accused a whistleblower of lying?' Henry Staunton, who was Post Office chairman between December 2022 and last month, revealed how he was told not to 'rip off the band aid' by a top civil servant Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch this week launched a furious fightback in a row over postmasters' compensation and claimed Mr Staunton was spreading 'made-up anecdotes' The Horizon scandal saw more than 700 subpostmasters and subpostmistresses handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 Sir Keir told Mr Sunak that 'fears of delay or cover up' are causing postmasters 'anguish' as he raised concerns from one about a 'lack of transparency'. He demanded the release of correspondence between the Post Office and Whitehall departments. Mr Sunak said the ongoing independent inquiry into the Post Office scandal can access all the documentation it requires.' 'We're not wasting a moment to get victims the compensation they deserve and the legislation will be before the House shortly,' he added. The PM also told MPs that the Horizon scandal 'has unfolded over decades', adding: 'It was actually following a landmark 2019 High Court case that the previous Government established a statutory inquiry. which is uncovering exactly what went wrong. And it is right that that inquiry is allowed to do its work.' Mr Sunak added said the Government established an independent advisory board and compensation schemes after the High Court case, saying over two thirds of people 'have received full and final offers'. The PM vowed the Government is focused on ensuring victims get the 'justice and compensation that they deserve'. Mr Staunton, who was Post Office chairman between December 2022 and last month, last night revealed how he was told not to 'rip off the band aid' in terms of finances by a top civil servant. Sarah Munby, who was then permanent secretary at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, is claimed to have warned Mr Staunton that 'now was not the time for dealing with long-term issues'. In her first meeting with Mr Staunton on January 5 last year, she is also said to have told him that 'politicians do not necessarily like to confront reality' and suggested they come up with a plan to 'hobble' up to the general election. The bombshell claims are included in a contemporaneous note of the meeting made by Mr Staunton, which he has now shared with The Times. A Green Party mayor has been accused of 'discrimination' after cutting meat from the menu at his receptions to help save the planet. Councillor Louis Stephen was voted in by members of Worcester City Council as the authority's first Green mayor last May. But at a full council meeting on Tuesday night he was questioned on his decision to remove meat from the food offered at receptions in the Mayor's Parlour at Worcester Guildhall. The mayor took the decision because of the climate emergency meat production often requires extensive grasslands, sometimes created by cutting down trees, while methane, a by-product of cattle's digestive process is the second most important greenhouse gas contributor to climate change following carbon dioxide. The mayor also argues that plant-based food is 'more inclusive' as many non-Christians do not eat pork. Councillor Louis Stephen, Mayor of Worcester, took the decision to take meat off the menu It is the custom after full council meetings for councillors to retire to the Mayor's Parlour for refreshments but the Conservative councillor for Bedwardine, Alan Amos, branded the move 'outrageous' and said it is discrimination not to cater for meat-eaters. At a full-council meeting on Tuesday night, Mr Amos argued that about 93 per cent of the population were meat-eaters, yet alternative provision is invariably made for vegetarians and vegans. He tabled a question at the Worcester Guildhall meeting asking: 'Why has a decision been made to deny any choice for the 93 per cent at post-Council receptions by instructing that no meat option for the 93 per cent should be provided? 'Who made this decision? Who else was consulted? Is this another example of the tyranny of the illiberal Left?' Mr Amos, who served as Mayor of Worcester between 2014 and 2015, said he always tried to make sure during his term that all were catered for, whether they were vegans, vegetarians or ate meat. He added: 'We always had an option for vegetarians and an option for vegans. Certainly, when I was mayor, I would make sure there was an option for everybody, including vegetarians and vegans. 'We are not an equal, inclusive and diverse council if we do not provide a choice to everyone. 'This is not about me. I'm too fat and I eat too much anyway. I just won't go to these events any more. But the principle is an important one - we can't say we're an equal, inclusive and diverse council if we make a policy decision not to provide any meat option at our catering functions. That is absolutely outrageous. It's discrimination.' Councillor Alan Amos, branded the move 'outrageous' and said it is discrimination not to cater for meat-eaters Food offered at the cold buffet following the near five-hour meeting on Tuesday included salad, 'imitation duck' in plumb sauce wraps and Quorn, as well as crisps and fruit. Mr Stephen said as well as cutting meat from the menu, he had also banned dairy products according to the United Nations, the dairy industry is responsible for roughly 3.4 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions and fish. 'It's customary for the mayor to provide refreshments after the six full council meetings each year. 'Many people came up to me and said they'd never tried vegan food before but that they had enjoyed it', he said. He said there was no wider meat ban at the Guildhall. There is no party in overall control of the council. Prior to the 2023 local elections, the Conservatives had been the largest party but they were usurped by both Labour and the Green Party last May. Mr Stephen, who represents Battenhall ward, added: 'It is the mayor's prerogative to decide what food and drink will be offered. 'I'm mindful of the gravity of the climate emergency, and as leader I think it's right to highlight the importance of all of us doing what we can to mitigate the seriousness of the emergency, by offering plant-based food. 'Additionally, in sharp contrast with the old practice of offering things like ham sandwiches, plant-based food is far more inclusive. Everyone can eat plant-based food but many non-Christian people don't eat pork.' Lynn Denham, joint leader of Worcester City Council, said: 'The choice of refreshments is the mayor's choice. It's not a council decision. When my husband was mayor he made sure bottled beer was available.' Mr Stephen is a keen cyclist who vowed to arrive at as many events as he could by bike when he took the chains of office. Virginia police are searching for a man involved in a high-speed chase who escaped from the hospital with an IV still in his arm by stealing an ambulance. On Monday, Fair Oaks police chased a stolen vehicle with five adults inside that drove off the highway and crashed. One of the passengers, Rickey Lowe, 32, was taken to Fairfax Hospital for treatment but evaded police custody by stealing a medical transport vehicle. The stolen ambulance was found about three miles away from the hospital, but Lowe was no where to be found. 'One of the occupants who was inside that stolen vehicle, he was hospitalized, he was receiving treatment. He left, he eloped from the hospital,' said Lieutenant Curry with the public affairs bureau. Virginia police are searching for a man involved in a high-speed chase who escaped from the hospital with an IV still in his arm by stealing an ambulance The stolen ambulance was found about three miles away from the hospital, but suspect Rickey Lowe was no where to be found Lowe was a passenger inside a stolen vehicle that drove off the highway and crashed 'Prior to being discharged still in the medical gown, still with an IV in his arm and he went outside and stole a medical transport vehicle.' Lowe was not facing charges from the crash at the time he escaped, but police found a rifle, a pistol with an obliterated serial number, a baggie of unknown white powder and other drug paraphernalia inside the stolen car. Video of the chase shows the stolen white 2015 Toyota Corolla speeding toward an exit, veering left into the grass then hitting a small hill that sent it airborne, reported NBC Washington. Four of the five occupants were taken to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, and the fifth was flown to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later determined to be non-life-threatening. The driver was charged with grand larceny and remains in the hospital. Police found a rifle, a pistol with an obliterated serial number, a baggie of unknown white powder and other drug paraphernalia inside the stolen car Lowe was previously arrested in November for reckless handling of a firearm after shot a gun into the air during a fight outside of a DC-area hotel A photo from inside the stolen ambulance shows Lowe driving 34 mph around 8:48 pm on Monday. 'Later on in the evening or in the early morning, there was a call out in Prince William County for officers searching for the same suspect down there, so we don't believe that he's in this area. He is currently wanted for grand larceny,' said Curry. Police said he is 300 pounds, has a shaved head and tattoos on his arms. Lowe was previously arrested in November for reckless handling of a firearm after shot a gun into the air during a fight outside of a DC-area hotel. The man was thrown to the ground before he scrambled up, desperately attempting to patch the leak Brendan Babcock was checking a brewery container at Back Channel Brewing Co. when a stream of beer hit him in the chest A Minnesota brewery worker was in for a surprise when a stream of ale shot out of a brewery container, sending him flying backwards. Brendan Babcock, an employee at Back Channel Brewing Co., was checking a brewery container on January 23 when beer suddenly shot out of a tank valve. The stream threw him backwards, sending him careening to floor, where he landed squarely on his back. Babcock leapt to his feet and hurried back to the container. He attempted to close the leak as beer sputtered out of the hole, spraying everywhere. As he struggled, another employee rushed in to assist, ducking to dodge the shower of ale. Brendan Babcock, an employee at Back Channel Brewing Company in Spring Lake, Minnesota, was in for a shock when beer exploded out of a brewery container Babcock was seen checking the container on surveillance video. Suddenly, a stream of pale ale exploded out of the cannister, striking him in the chest The force threw the man backwards, sending him to the floor where he landed squarely on his back Babcock hopped back up and hurried over the brewery container to try to close the leak. As he struggled, another employee rushed in to help As the video racked up millions of views online, they seized upon its virality to advertise the brew: a 6.5 percent New England IPA named 'Blow Back' Back Channel Brewing confirmed that Babcock was not injured in the incident. The moment was captured on video and posted to the brewery's Instagram account on February 10. It quickly racked up millions of views, with the company seizing upon its viral moment to advertise the brew - a 6.5 percent New England IPA aptly named 'Blow Back.' 'The best beer of the weekend is now on tap,' the brewery wrote, adding: 'It's limited,' with a winky face. Babcock took the humiliating moment in stride as he left his own comment under the post. 'I had to get a sneak peak of how good the beer tasted,' he quipped. Back Channel Brewing Co. is located in Spring Park, a city nestled on the bank of Lake Minnetonka. The brewery advertises itself as a 'family-friendly taproom experience' and regularly hosts food trucks and live music events. The son of former Real Housewives of Orange County star Lauri Peterson, Josh Waring, 35, has found himself in legal trouble once again. Waring was arrested last Wednesday on suspicion of punching a security guard in the chest at Chapman Global Medical Center in California, according to the Orange County Register. Lt. Phil McMullin of the Orange Police Department said police responded to the alleged assault at around 5.45 am as Waring was being escorted out of the medical center. The most recent reported assault serves as another entry in Waring's extensive arrest record, after he was convicted and sent to prison for a 2016 shooting outside a sober living home in Costa Mesa. McMullin said the 35-year-old was also wanted on a warrant for a post-release supervision violation and a hearing had been scheduled for his case in Santa Ana. The son of former Real Housewife of Orange County star Lauri Peterson, Josh Waring (pictured in 2020), 35, found himself in legal trouble once again after allegedly punching a security guard in the chest Waring (left) was arrested last Wednesday on suspicion of punching a security guard in the chest at Chapman Global Medical Center in California The most recent reported assault serves as another entry in Waring (left)'s extensive arrest record, after he was convicted and sent to prison for a 2016 shooting outside a sober living home in Costa Mesa He was originally charged with three counts of attempted murder and faced a prison sentence of 65 years to life for the shooting of Daniel Lopez, then 35, on June 20, 2016. After spending nearly four years behind bars, he entered a guilty plea to four felonies - assault with firearm and leading police on a chase, two counts of assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, hit-and-run with property damage and battery. He was sentenced to time served in jail at the time. A month later, he filed a lawsuit against Orange County and two Orange County Sheriff's deputies assigned to the men's central jail. He alleged in the lawsuit that the deputies set up an attack on him, which took place in October 2019, to have him killed in retaliation for Waring making complaints about them. The attack was captured on camera at the Orange County jail in Santa Ana, showing a man hiding under a stairwell before coming out and attacking him. The lawsuit also alleged that two deputies tried to kill him on another occasion when they entered his jail cell and, 'unleashed several rounds of pepper spray balls.' He was originally charged with three counts of attempted murder and faced a prison sentence of 65 years to life for the shooting of Daniel Lopez, then 35, on June 20, 2016 After spending nearly four years behind bars, he entered a guilty plea to four felonies - assault with firearm and leading police on a chase, two counts of assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, hit-and-run with property damage and battery In September of 2021, Waring reached a $595,000 settlement in the federal lawsuit with the county. But since he was released from prison in 2016, Waring had been arrested multiple times on drug possession counts. Waring was taken into custody in June of 2020 in Huntington Beach and subsequently charged with three misdemeanors - possession of a controlled substance, drug paraphernalia and misrepresenting himself to police. Less than a year later, Waring was arrested in May of 2021 in Lake Forest, California after he was riding in a rental car that had been reported stolen from John Wayne Airport. He was accused of possessing fentanyl, methamphetamine and paraphernalia that was recovered from the glove compartment in the vehicle. In September of 2022, Waring pleaded guilty to a felony count of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell and one count of possession of a stun gun with a prior conviction. He also pleaded guilty to three counts of possession of a controlled substance, and one count of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, all misdemeanors. Since he was released from prison in 2016, Waring had been arrested multiple times on drug possession counts He filed a lawsuit against Orange County and two Orange County Sheriff's deputies assigned to the men's central jail and alleged that the deputies set up the attack on him, which took place in October 2019, to have him killed in retaliation for Waring making complaints about them The attack was captured on camera at the Orange County jail in Santa Ana, showing a man hiding under a stairwell before coming out and attacking him In his latest incident, Waring left the shower running at a Fountain Valley motel, resulting in damage to the room below in July 2023. Police found Narcan and drug paraphernalia in his room as 'he appeared confused and had slurred speech,' probation officials said, according to local reports. Following his hospitalization, Waring tested positive for fentanyl, hydrocodone, and methamphetamine weeks later and was found violating probation terms that required a mandatory GPS device. After his latest court appearance on November 7 for a revocation hearing, Waring received a 90-day jail sentence, according to records. He was released on December 12 but failed to report to his probation officer. A warrant was issued for Waring. Unidentified 'hostile elements' reportedly attempted to hijack the communications of a passenger jet flying into Israel from Thailand this past weekend - the second such attempt in the past week. Israeli national airline El Al told local media that a flight from Phuket to Tel-Aviv's Ben-Gurion international airport on Saturday came under threat when external actors tried to divert the aircraft from its destination. The pilots of El Al flight LY88, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, were told in a rogue radio message to divert from their set route on an alternative heading. This sparked fears that the fake air traffic controllers meant to sabotage the plane or cause it to land in a dangerous location. The source of the communications breach was reportedly traced back to breakaway state Somaliland - though El Al did not specify whether they were able to pinpoint the group or actor responsible. But pilots ignored the message and were able to reestablish communications with Israeli air traffic control which successfully guided the flight in safely. Israeli national airline El Al told local media that a flight from Phuket to Tel-Aviv's Ben-Gurion international airport on Saturday came under threat when external actors tried to divert the aircraft from its destination (FILE PHOTO: El Al Boeing 787s at Ben-Gurion airport) El Al sought to assuage concerns, telling Israeli outlet Ynet: 'The disruptions are not aimed at [El Al] planes and it is not a security incident the disruption did not affect the continuation of the flight.' But another outlet, KAN Reshet B, said that another flight from Thai capital Bangkok to Tel-Aviv suffered a similar cyberattack just days ago. And the Jerusalem Post quoted one anonymous El Al employee as saying: 'In Somalia, there have been communication interruptions all week, not only for El Al planes. 'The official authorities have issued instructions to all pilots that as soon as this happens with a certain frequency, not to listen to the instructions and to switch to another communication method. 'Our pilots are instructed on how to deal with this incident, such as the problematic frequency, and how to handle the flight professionally when it happens,' the source said. The sister of the man arrested for murdering a woman in a Manhattan hotel has expressed her relief at her brother's arrest and revealed how he terrorized his family as a child, insisting that the women in the family 'serve' him because he was the 'man of the house.' Raad Almansoori, 26, is in custody on suspicion of killing Queens sex worker Denisse Oleas-Arancibia in the Soho 54 hotel on February 8. He was arrested in Arizona after stabbing another woman at a McDonald's. Now, his traumatized half-sister is revealing to the New York Daily News how he tortured her as a child. Raad Almansoori, 26, was arrested by police in Arizona on a separate assault on another woman A surveillance footage image shows the suspect in the grisly slaying of Oleas-Arancibia wearing a bodysuit in Manhattan When staff discovered the body of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia on the morning of February 8, the 38-year-old was lying beneath a blanket and beside a broken iron, having checked in the day before 'I was scared last week when he told me he was back in Phoenix. 'It was his way or no way at all. He had a very macho way of thinking. In the household when we were younger, we had to serve him because he was the man of the house.' Almansoori also had cruel instincts as a child, killing his pet snakes and claiming to hear the voice of God, according to his sister. 'When he didn't like them, he put them in the middle of the street because God told him to kill them,' she explained. Police said last week that they had been using 'extensive video' to track down the person of interest in the death of Oleas-Arancibia 'For a long time, he would be out in the backyard speaking to God.' 'The fact that he left New York so quickly made me think he did something out there too,' she explained. At a Tuesday press conference, the NYPD revealed new details including that Almansoori was on bail at the time of the murder for attacking and sexually assaulting another escort in Florida in April 2023. After being arrested on that charge, he later posted his own bail in September of last year. He also confessed to assaulting another three women. 'We are working with our partners to arrange extradition so he can be charged for the homicide here' NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. Kenny also revealed Tuesday that Almansoori has an 'extensive' out of state arrest history having previously been arrested in Florida, Texas and Arizona. Kenny, seen here, also revealed on Tuesday that Almansoori has an 'extensive' out of state arrest history having previously been arrested in Florida, Texas and Arizona Oleas-Arancibia's death has formally been ruled a homicide (pictured: interior of the room where Oleas-Arancibia was found) Oleas-Arancibia died of compression to her neck and blunt head trauma, according to a spokesperson for the city medical examiner A bloody iron was found lying by her body. Police also recovered a pair of bloody pants with a receipt in them from the hotel room Surveillance footage of Almansoori caught after the murder of Oleas-Arancibia wearing a bodysuit along a well-lit Manhattan street. Confirming the timeline of events, Kenny said that Almansoori had purchased a plane ticket from Florida to New York on January 26. According to Kenny, he then has credit card usage three days later in the Big Apple and visits an escort in Upper Manhattan on February 6. The body of Oleas-Arancibia was found on the morning of February 8, and four days later, Almansoori is said to have flown back to Arizona from Newark. Officials in Arizona took him into custody on Sunday after he stabbed a woman in McDonald's after dragging her into the ladies room and holding her against her will. Police say Almansoori was arrested shortly after he tried to flee in a stolen car and admitted while in custody to an earlier stabbing in Phoenix. In that incident, a woman was stabbed when a man attempted to steal her car at knifepoint. Almansoori was booked into the Maricopa County jail on charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault and theft. He was also charged with robbery, assault, theft and criminal damage in the separate Phoenix investigation. He is being held without bond. Kenny added the extradition could take 'days, weeks, it could be months.' Police said last week that they had been using 'extensive video' to track down the person of interest in the death of Oleas-Arancibia. Wellness calls were made to the front desk throughout the evening for Oleas-Arancibia Oleas-Arancibia (pictured left) came to the United States five years ago, leaving behind family including one of her sons Interim Harvard University President Alan Garber condemned the use of an anti-Semitic image posted by two pro-Palestinian students groups and shared by a faculty staff group. On Tuesday evening, Garber wrote in a statement: 'While the groups associated with the posting or sharing of the cartoon have since sought to distance themselves from it in various ways, the damage remains, and our condemnation stands. 'The members of the Corporation join me in unequivocally condemning the posting and sharing of the cartoon in question.' The image depicted a hand with a Star of David and a dollar sign drawn in the middle of it holding a noose around the necks of two men who look to be former Egyptian President Gamal Nasser and Muhammad Ali. The image was included in an Instagram post that went up on Sunday from the Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee and the African and African American Resistance Organization. Harvard University has been hit with backlash over anti-Semitism again after a faculty organization claiming to support Palestine posted a cartoon depicting a Jewish person hanging black and Arab men to Instagram Sunday The cartoon dates back to 1967, according to Tablet Magazine and was originally published in a magazine linked to the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee The image was then reposted by the account of the Harvard Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine - a recently-formed Palestinian advocacy group that has endorsed the frequently employed refrain that Israel is perpetrating racial, colonial violence against the oppressed Palestinian nation. The cartoon was displayed as part of an Instagram post claiming to show how 'African people have a profound understanding of apartheid and occupation.' On Monday, the university declared its Administrative Board, which reviews disciplinary action pertaining to undergraduate students, will review the post. 'The University will review the situation to better understand who was responsible for the posting and to determine what further steps are warranted,' said Garber. 'Perpetuating vile and hateful antisemitic tropes, or otherwise engaging in inflammatory rhetoric or sharing images that demean people on the basis of their identity, is precisely the opposite of what this moment demands of us. 'Reckless provocation draws attention without advancing understanding,' he concluded. Both groups had removed the post featuring the image ahead of the university's Monday statement. In an apology, they wrote they that they 'regret inadvertently including an image that played upon antisemitic tropes.' The issue over the post comes just a month after former President Claudine Gay resigned from her post after disastrous testimony to Congress that failed to condemn campus antisemitism. The cartoon dates back to 1967, according to Tablet Magazine and was originally published in a magazine linked to the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. Rabbi David Wolpe, a Harvard Divinity School scholar who resigned from the schools antisemitism advisory committee in December highlighted the cartoon in a post on X Monday. 'This was posted today by 'Harvard faculty and staff for justice in Palestine.' The cartoon is despicably, inarguably anti-Semitic,' he wrote. 'Is there no limit?' Rabbi David Wolpe, a Harvard Divinity School scholar who resigned from the schools anti-Semitism advisory committee in December highlighted the cartoon in a post on X Monday It comes just over a month after former President Claudine Gay resigned from her post after disastrous testimony to Congress that failed to condemn campus anti-Semitism The faculty and staff group, which says it is 'committed to supporting the cause of Palestinian liberation' and 'wholeheartedly reject[s] accusations that critique of the Israeli state is antisemitic' issued a groveling apology later Monday. 'It has come to our attention that a post featuring antiquated cartoons which used offensive antisemitic tropes was linked to our account. We removed the content as soon as it came to our attention. We apologize for the hurt that these images have caused and do not condone them in any way,' they wrote. 'Harvard FSJP stands against all forms of hate and bigotry, including antisemitism,' it added. An Instagram package with similar sentiments, but minus the offending cartoon, was later re-posted by Harvard's Palestine Solidarity Committee. DailyMail.com has reached out to Harvard Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine for comment. The student-run version of the group, Students for Justice in Palestine, was one of the leading voices offering support for Hamas terrorists in the days following the attacks. The House Committee on Education and the Workforce, which is presently investigating the Ivy League over anti-Semitism bubbling to the surface on its campus, wrote about the image in an X post: 'This repugnant antisemitism should have no place in our society, much less on Harvards faculty.' Earlier this month, the committee subpoenaed three top Harvard administrators after a prolonged back-and-forth over congress's request for internal communications between the university and the Harvard Corporation. Specifically, according to The Crimson, members of the committee are looking for all disciplinary records for Harvard affiliates and student organizations related to 'conduct involving the targeting of Jews, Israelis, Israel, Zionists, or Zionism.' The committee is also looking for communications about PSC's initial response to the October 7 terror attack, which shifted the blame from Hamas terrorists to Israel, as well as the organization's annual 'Israeli Apartheid Week' and other post-October 7 demonstrations. The group, which says it is 'committed to supporting the cause of Palestinian liberation' and 'wholeheartedly reject[s] accusations that critique of the Israeli state is antisemitic' issued a groveling apology later Monday An Instagram package with similar sentiments but minus the offending cartoon was later re-posted by Harvard's Palestine Solidarity Committee It was, in fact, the student-run branch of SJP at Harvard that published a controversial letter blaming Israel for the Palestinian extremists' terror plot. The letter launched an outcry from many Harvard alumni and led to dozens of top-tier donors pulling their tens of millions from the school. It was that series of events that started the ball rolling toward the ultimate ousting of Harvard President Claudine Gay. Gay, 53, lasted just six months in the role - the shortest tenure of any president in the school's history. Her resignation came 28 days after her shocking congressional testimony about campus antisemitism, where she refused to categorize calls for Jew genocide as harassment or concede that Jewish students had a right not to feel safe at Ivy League schools. In her resignation, Gay wrote that she was standing down after 'consultation' with the school's board, which has been under pressure to replace her after defending her remarks. 'It has become clear that it is in the best interests of Harvard for me to resign so that our community can navigate this moment of extraordinary challenge with a focus on the institution rather than any individual,' Gay wrote. Yet dozens of faculty at the elite institution have made the call to provide back-up for those students and others who have been accused of significant anti-Semitic conduct since the outbreak of the war. The letter from Harvard FSJP gives cover to those students and claims that they are the ones being subjected to 'a concerted and escalating campaign of harassment, intimidation, and racist hate speech because of their advocacy for Palestinian rights.' 'We pledge to support, defend, and protect our students, faculty, staff, and all Harvard affiliates organizing for Palestinian human rights, justice, and peace in Palestine/Israel,' it continues. The faculty - nearly half of whom are affiliated with Harvard Medical School - also declare their support for the Boycott, Divest, and Sanction movement, which seeks to withdraw any kind of financial or other support from Israel or any Israeli companies. 'As educational workers, we are focused on boycotts of Israeli academic institutions that support apartheid and colonial occupation,' they wrote, as well as any companies 'that sustain Israeli apartheid, settler colonialism, and systematic human rights abuses against Palestinian.' Demonstrators are seen at Harvard on October 14. Gay was criticized for being slow to condemn student justification of the Hamas terror attacks in Israel In November, about 100 members of the Harvard faculty signed a different letter that criticized then President Claudine Gay's initiative to 'combat anti-Semitism,' which had been identified as an issue on campus. The letter claimed the school was mistakenly taking cues from 'donors, alumni, and even some on this campus' who sought to 'silence' those who are critical of Israel's response to Hamas' terror attack. They argued the school should not throttle free speech by banning students from chanting 'from the river to the sea,' a phrase that is near universally understood to be a call for the elimination of the State of Israel and its Jewish residents. The newest faculty letter goes several steps further by saying that the world is watching 'Israels genocidal war and ethnic cleansing in Gaza,' and that such criticism does not rise to the level of anti-Semitism. The groups claims to be after the 'emancipation of all peoples, with liberated futures for both Palestinians and Israelis.' 'Since systems of oppression are deeply interconnected, we further pledge to combat all forms of discrimination and racism at Harvard and outside its walls, including anti-Palestinian racism, anti-Muslim racism, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Blackness, white supremacy, and antisemitism,' they wrote. A handful of signees are support staff at Harvard's School of Arts and Sciences, including employees responsible for the well-being and academic records of students, as well as librarians and academic advisors. Ousmane Oumar Kane, a professor of African and African American Studies, as well as the denominational counselor to Muslim Students signed the letter Self-described climate justice scholar-advocate Jennie C. Stephens, who is a Climate Justice Fellow at Harvard this year, signed the letter Law School professor Duncan Kennedy (left), best known as one of the minds behind the critical legal studies movement, which birthed critical race theory, signed the letter. Professor John Womack Jr. (right), a longtime professor of Mexican history and grandfather of the late rapper Lil Peep, signed the letter Notable members of the faculty who added their names to the pro-Palestinian pledge include Ousmane Oumar Kane, a professor of African and African American Studies, as well as the denominational counselor to Muslim Students. Kane is currently the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Professor of Contemporary Islamic Religion and Society. He is well known for his work on the subject of Muslim globalization. He was on leave during the fall 2023 semester and if that meant he was spending time away from campus, he likely did not see in person the aftermath of October 7 play out at Harvard. Michelle E. Morse, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and the first-ever Chief Medical Officer of the New York City Department of Health, signed the letter. Her latter position was established as part NYC's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, Morse wrote an op-ed in the Boston Review, in which she made a case in favor of federal reparations for racial minorities who have received sub-minimal healthcare from the US medical system. She co-wrote the piece with fellow letter-signee Bram Wispelwey, a Harvard Medical School colleague of hers. Dr. Wispelwey is an associate physician at the medical school's Division of Global Health Equity at Brigham and Womens Hospital. According to his Harvard faculty page, 'Brams research, education, and implementation efforts focus on anti-racist strategies to address hospital admission inequities, community health worker impact, and settler colonial determinants of health.' Michelle E. Morse, a Harvard Medical School professor and New York City's first-ever Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Health Vijay Iyer - the Franklin D. and Florence Rosenblatt Professor of the Arts - signed the letter Another notable endorsement of the letter came from Professor John Womack, a historian who has spent virtually his entire academic and professional life at Harvard. His work has centered on Mexican history, and a little bit randomly, he was also the grandfather of the late rapper Lil Peep. Law School professor Duncan Kennedy, best known as one of the minds behind the critical legal studies movement, which birthed critical race theory, signed the letter. He had also signed the one written in November. Self-described climate justice scholar-advocate Jennie C. Stephens, who is a Climate Justice Fellow at Harvard this year, signed the letter. Her research focuses on 'integrating transformative social justice, feminist, anti-racist perspectives into climate and energy policy,' among other things. Vijay Iyer is the Franklin D. and Florence Rosenblatt Professor of the Arts. He is a composer and 'shape-shifting presence in American music,' in addition to being one of the signees of the letter. Police in Poland have appealed for help after a British teenager went missing on a trip to the country. Francis Bond had been in the tourist city of Krakow where he had been staying with relatives on the outskirts of the city. At around 4.30pm on Sunday, the 18-year-old who doesn't speak Polish reportedly left without saying where he was going. He hasn't been seen or heard from since. Police have now issued a public plea for any information that can help find him. A police spokesman said: 'At 4.30 p.m. he left his place of residence at ul. Radzikowski in Krakow, without informing his family where he was going.' Francis Bond, missing since Sunday after leaving the house without telling anybody File photo. People walk by the Main Square in Krakow on July 2, 2020 'The 18-year-old has not yet returned home and has not contacted his loved ones,' the officer continued. 'He does not communicate in Polish. 'On the day he disappeared, the 18-year-old was wearing blue jeans, brown shoes, and a green waist-length winter jacket. 'He's probably carrying a black backpack.' The Facebook group Wanted Missing All over the World added: 'The missing person's relatives are very worried about him and miss him very much, so on their behalf we would like to ask everyone for help in finding the teenager as soon as possible.' In addition to being famed for its beauty, Krakow has recently grown a more seedy reputation for dodgy strip clubs. In 2017, Brit Mark Cocks, 36, died of alcohol poisoning after being plied with scores of shots at the city's Wild Night club. Cocks, a Leeds United fan from Loftus in Teeside, Yorkshire, had been 'lured' into the club with a friend before being given nearly two powerful shots before he collapsed and died. Staff at the club also robbed him of PLN 2,200 (420) in cash, according to the Polish authorities. In April last year, cops arrested seven people in connection with his death. A man who admitted killing his partner and three children, including a 15-month-old baby, in a house fire as part of a 'suicide pact' has been sentenced to 29 years in prison. Daniel Sebastian Allen, 33, previously pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his partner Denise Gossett, 45, by reason of suicide pact between the pair. He also admitted the murder of her daughter Sabrina, 19, son Roman, 16, and Sabrina's 15-month-old daughter Morgana Quinn in the deliberate fire at a house in Derrylin, Co Fermanagh, on February 27, 2018. The family had moved from Doncaster 18 months previously. Allen, whose address was given as HMP Maghaberry, also admitted arson with intent to endanger life. He was sentenced at Belfast Crown Court on Wednesday morning. One of those killed in the fire in 2018 was 15-month-old Morgana Quinn Daniel Sebastian Allen, 33, previously pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his partner Denise Gossett, and murder of the other three family members The house the family had been renting was completely gutted in the blaze and has since been knocked down Delivering sentence, Mr Justice O'Hara said Allen will serve 29 years in prison before he can be considered for release. He told the court Allen came from an 'unstable, unhappy background', and 'lived most of his life online' and 'in a fantasy world' because of isolation from others. But the judge said the killings required planning, and could not be explained by a 'sudden detachment from reality or loss of control'. 'There is a very dangerous and disturbing part of his make-up that led to these murders,' he added. The fire completely gutted the house that the family had been renting for more than a year. The owner, who was among several neighbours who attempted to save the family from the flames, has since knocked the property down. In a statement, Denise Gossett's surviving daughter Samantha said her life will never be the same again. In a statement from Samantha, read outside Belfast Crown Court by Detective Inspector Hazel Miller following the sentencing, she said: 'My beautiful mother was taken from me. My younger brother and sister, Roman and Sabrina, along with Sabrina's wee baby Morgana are all gone too. 'Their four lives were taken in a fire started deliberately. And it breaks my heart to think on what happened; to think on how they died. Allen admitted the manslaughter of Denise Gussett, 45, by reason of suicide pact Sabrina Gossett, 19, was also killed in the fire alongside her 15-month-old daughter Morgana Roman Gossett, 16, was also killed in the blaze - Allen admitted to murdering him, Sabrina and Morgana Speaking outside court following the sentencing Detective Inspector Miller said Allen has been held accountable for his actions 'I miss them so much. And, to be honest, it's very difficult to convey such a loss in words. My remaining family and I are incredibly thankful for everything the police, and those who helped bring this to court, have done. 'It is hard to move on with our lives, and my life will never be the same again. But the support of everyone, especially my partner and friends, has truly meant such a lot.' Detective Inspector Miller said Allen has been held accountable for his actions and that it was a 'horrific and cruel act'. 'Three generations - a mother, her two children and her granddaughter - perished in a fire deliberately started by Daniel Allen in their home in Derrylin,' she said. 'The four whose lives were lost were Denise Gosset, aged 45, her 16-year old son Roman, her 19-year-old daughter Sabrina, and Sabrina's baby daughter Morgana. Morgana was just 15 months old. 'Allen pleaded guilty to the murder of Sabrina, Roman and Morgana. He denied the murder of Denise but confessed to her manslaughter, and also admitted to arson with intent to endanger life. 'This was a horrific and cruel act. It's hard to even begin to imagine the panic, fear and sheer suffering. With the use of forensic evidence, and working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, Daniel Allen has today been held accountable for his actions. 'I'm deeply mindful, however, that this is an event that will never be forgotten. We've seen destruction and a loss beyond words. My thoughts are with the remaining family members, whose lives won't ever be the same.' Chicago activists are bashing Mayor Brandon Johnson for trying to replace blacks with migrants, and demanding an exemption from the $6,000-per-year property taxes that other groups would still have to pay. Howard Ray, a Chicago reparations activist, this week revived his Reconstruction Era Reparation Act Now campaign for carve-outs from property taxes for black households, saying Chicago's migrant surge was hurting African Americans. Other black Chicagoans have taken to social media to slam Mayor Johnson over $9,000 payouts to migrants to cover their rent and help furnish their apartments, saying it is pricing them out of longstanding black neighborhoods. The US has seen an influx of asylum seekers across its southern border in recent months, many heading to Chicago, straining social services as hundreds camp out in police stations and O'Hare Airport. In a widely shared video post, which DailyMail.com could not independently verify, the Chicago woman complained of Latino migrants pricing people out of her neighborhood 'They're using our taxes to demise our communities,' Ray told Chicago's Morning Answer. 'They're using our taxes to support and advocate for the illegal immigrants. And in the meantime, we're getting pushed out.' Howard Ray says blacks should not pay property taxes Ray launched his campaign last year, saying black Chicagoans face much higher rates of evictions than others, and that letting them off property taxes would be a fair payback for the legacy of slavery. Property taxes on a single-family home in Chicago and its suburbs average between $2,500 to $7,500 each year, according to the property website Virtuance. Taxes have jumped up in recent years, straining budgets in poorer households. 'We're losing a lot of the black culture in Chicago,' added Ray, a former candidate for Alderman. 'A lot of the blacks are moving out of Chicago because of crime and taxes moving to the red states, the southern states. By not paying property taxes, (blacks) will be able to be saved.' Tax relief for blacks would be payback for the injustices of slavery, Jim Crow, racial lynchings, 'redlining' policies to restrict black homeownership, and the mass incarceration of blacks for drug offenses, he added. Chicago residents have held meetings against Mayor Johnson's migrant policy, including this event last year against his plans to turn a park district field house into a shelter for migrants Arriving migrants were forced to sleep in Chicago police stations earlier on in the crisis 'We're trying to preserve the blacks to stay here' in Chicago, Ray added. 'We don't want our people to leave this city. We built this city.' Black Chicago residents aired similar concerns about Mayor Johnson's support for asylum seekers, with shelters and $9,000 payouts, saying it was at the expense of the African Americans who helped elect him last year. Poll Do you support a federal reparation policy directed at the descendants of slaves? Yes No Not sure Do you support a federal reparation policy directed at the descendants of slaves? Yes 316 votes No 10476 votes Not sure 48 votes Now share your opinion 'I don't understand how they can give these immigrants thousands of dollars in the state of Illinois, but look what they're doing to our own f******g people,' said a Chicago woman, in a video that's been viewed 59,000 times. She described seeing 'Latinos' arriving in her neighborhood in a '12-foot box truck,' using government welfare checks to 'buy up everything' and effectively price black residents out of the neighborhood. 'The fact they are here, and our government is giving more to them than to the people who were born here, is really starting to p**s us off,' said the woman in the video, which DailyMail.com could not independently verify. 'Mayor Brandon, we are coming for your a**.' The mayor's office did not answer DailyMail.com's request for comment. The number of asylum seekers in city shelters appears to be falling after peaking at 15,000 in December, when officials warned that the system had 'reached capacity.' A worrying 69 percent of Chicagoans disapprove of Johnson's handling of the migrant crisis Johnson at the time joined the mayors of New York and Denver, which are also inundated with migrants, to call for the crisis to be declared a federal emergency, freeing up funds to bail out the struggling cities. In recent days, Johnson, a Democrat, has walked back or rejected more than $300 million in extra funding for the migrant surge. An Echelon Insights survey in January found that 69 percent of Chicagoans disapproved of Johnson's handling of the migrant crisis. Only 23 percent approved of the mayor's performance, 8 percent were not sure. The surge in migrants has been a headache for Democrat-run northern cities and the administration of President Joe Biden, as it is front-of-mind for millions of voters and could swing the outcome of November's presidential election. Arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico reached an all-time high in December since monthly numbers have been released, authorities said last month, exposing a growing vulnerability for Biden in his campaign for a second term. The Border Patrol tallied 249,785 arrests on the Mexican border in December, up 31 percent from 191,112 in November and up 13 percent from 222,018 in December 2022, the previous all-time high. Arrests fell more than half in early January, in line with historic migrant trends. Grant Shapps today insisted the Government retains 'absolute confidence' in the Trident nuclear deterrent after a test saw a missile misfire and go 'plop' in the Atlantic. The Defence Secretary was aboard HMS Vanguard when the 'embarrassing' mishap occurred last month in the Atlantic off Florida. The US-made Trident 2 - fitted with a dummy warhead - successfully 'left the submarine' before a problem saw the the 58-ton missile sink into the depths next to the ballistic missile sub, The Sun reported. The incident marks the second failed launch in a row after a Trident missile launched from sister sub HMS Vengeance misfired during a test in 2016. In a written statement to MPs today Mr Shapps confirmed 'an anomaly' during the exercise, but added: 'It was event specific and there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpiles. 'Nor are there any implications for our ability to fire our nuclear weapons, should the circumstances arise in which we need to do so. 'The Trident missile system remains the most reliable weapons system in the world, having successfully completed more than 190 tests. 'The government has absolute confidence that the UK's deterrent remains effective, dependable, and formidable.' In a written statement to MPs today Mr Shapps confirmed 'an anomaly' during the exercise, but added: 'It was event specific and there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpiles.' Britain has botched another nuclear submarine test after a Trident missile launched from HMS Vanguard (pictured) 'dramatically misfired' and crashed into the ocean, it has emerged The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. Pictured: A test launch of a Trident nuclear missile (file photo) Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' It is the latest embarrassment for the UK's Armed Forces, which have been plagued by equipment failures and manpower problems for years. Earlier this month the Royal Navy flagship, the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth pulled out of a Nato exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. It followed similar problems with her sister ship HMS Prince of Wales two years ago, and previous engine problems which saw many of the Type 45 Daring Class destroyers stuck in harbour. There are also ongoing concerns over manpower shortages affecting the Royal Navy and the British Army. Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' But Lord West, the former Labour minister and ex-First Sea Lord, told MailOnline that while the test failure was 'bloody embarrassing' the problem that caused it would not affect a real launch. 'We don't need to go overboard, the system still works perfectly. It is bloody embarrassing, let's face it,' he said. 'Every single bit on the submarine worked perfectly, thank goodness. We have just had a seven-year refit which was ridiculously long. That is good news because it shows that these old submarines, when refitted can still do the business. 'The problem has not affected the operation capability of Trident at all, it is related totally to the test firing.' Officials said they could not say any more because the incident relates to national security. But they said there remained 'absolute confidence' in Britain's constant at-sea nuclear deterrent and that it continues to be 'secure and effective'. HMS Vanguard carried out the doomsday drill off the coast of Florida on January 30. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also present at the time to mark what was the final exercise for Vanguard and its crew after undergoing a refit that took more than seven years, an MoD spokesman said. The Trident missile was expected to travel some 3,500 miles before splashing harmlessly into the Atlantic between West Africa and Brazil. But instead it landed next to the submarine. Britain's military crisis The trident test failure is the latest humiliation to hit the UK Armed Forces, with service chiefs and ministers facing major questions over Britain's ability to fight a major conflict. Aircraft carriers Earlier this month the Royal Navy flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth was pulled out of a Nato exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. She was due to set sail from Portsmouth to help lead the western military alliance's biggest exercise since the Cold War. But the 3.5billion, 65,000-ton ship was pulled out at the 11th hour after rust was discovered on the affected part leaving it at risk of it breaking down at sea. The Queen Elizabeth's sister carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, took its place. But it also faced similar problems, breaking down near the Isle of Wight after setting sail for America just 18 months ago also due to a faulty propeller shaft. There was also an embarrassment in 2021 when an F35 jet fell off the end of QE during an aborted take-off. Destroyers In 2016 it was revealed Britain's cutting-edge 1billion air defence warships broke down in the Persian Gulf because they were not designed for the heat. The six 8,000-ton Daring Class Type 45 Destroyers were built with engines which kept cutting out in the middle of the warm sea, leaving servicemen stranded for hours in total darkness. They underwent expensive refits which solved the problem, but in the intervening period they spent a lot of time tied up in Portsmouth. Two of the cutting-edge warships, HMS Dauntless and HMS Defender, did not go to sea at all during 2017 which was hailed by officials and ministers as 'the year of the Navy'. Soldiers Last month the outgoing head of the British Army said a 'citizens army' might be needed in future because of cuts to full-time strength.'General Sir Patrick Sanders, the outgoing Chief of the General Staff, said even that would be 'not enough' as he pointed to allies in eastern and northern Europe 'laying the foundations for national mobilisation'. In a speech today, the general - who has been openly critical of staff shortages in the military - said boosting Army numbers in preparation for a potential conflict would need to be a 'whole-of-nation undertaking'. But Downing Street later hit back at the suggestion, insisting there were no plans for conscription. Sailors Last month it was reported that a drastic shortage of sailors had forced the Royal Navy to decommission two of its warships early. Frigates HMS Westminster and HMS Argyll were allegedly retired so their crews could transfer to the service's new Type 26 ships. The news came as UK sailors were sent to the Red Sea to protect merchant vessels from Houthi rebels. The retirement of HMS Westminster would be controversial as it underwent expensive repairs in 2017 and only recently returned to service. Ajax A disastrous defence procurement programme has seen just 44 of an ordered 589 armoured fighting vehicles delivered to the MoD - a decade after bosses signed the 5.5bn contract. Over 4bn has so far been spent on the ill-fated Ajax project - 70 per cent of the contract cost - but just seven per cent of the vehicles have been accepted by the Army. The Mail has revealed a litany of errors with the 38-tonne machines, being built by defence contractor General Dynamics, with trials paused three years ago after troops suffered hearing loss due to excess noise and vibration. The machines also struggled to fire on the move and left troops feeling sick. Hundreds of personnel required medical assessment after taking part in trials of the vehicle, which was due to enter service in 2020. Advertisement The Sun reported that a dummy Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air by compressed gas in its launch tube, but that its so-called first stage boosters did not ignite. HMS Vanguard was under the surface and hovering at launch depth during the test, but was not hit as the 44ft missile plunged into the water. The Ministry of Defence confirmed to MailOnline that an 'anomaly occurred' during the exercise, but insists the nuclear deterrent remains 'effective'. A probe has been ordered to determine the cause of the failure and a search will be carried out to recover the Trident 2 from the ocean. Details of the misfire are not being made public due to 'national security' matters. However, officials are 'confident' the incident was 'event specific' and that 'there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile'. A written ministerial statement on Britain's nuclear deterrent is expected to be laid in the House of Commons by Mr Shapps, according to Wednesday's order paper. The missiles are designed to blast to the edge of space and track their position against the stars, before re-entering the atmosphere (hence exoatmospheric), plummeting to earth and raining warheads down on its target. The maximum range of the missile is 12,000km (7,400 miles), which is roughly the distance from London to Indonesia one way, or Hawaii the other. The test was understood to be the final hurdle that the 4billion submarine must clear in order to re-enter service as part of the UK's nuclear deterrent force. Shadow defence secretary John Healey has now called for assurances, saying: 'Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. 'The Defence Secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK's deterrent operations.' An MoD spokesperson said: 'HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) - a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. 'The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK's nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence. 'During the test an anomaly occurred. As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this, however we are confident that the anomaly was event specific, and therefore there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile. The UK's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.' HMS Vanguard is one of four of the so-called Vanguard-class nuclear submarines that first went on patrol in 1994, with one of the vessels continually at sea. They carry the American-built Trident 2 D5 nuclear missiles, the mainstay of Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent. A Trident missile can be fired at targets up to 4,000 miles away and at its fastest can travel at more than 13,000 miles an hour, according to the Royal Navy. They are 13 metres long, weigh 130,000lb (58,500kg) and are ejected from the submarine by high-pressured gas before they fire as they reach the surface of the water. Each Vanguard-class submarine can hold up to 16 intercontinental ballistic missiles, but will only carry up to eight Trident rockets and up to 40 nuclear warheads. The V-class is due to be replaced by the bigger Dreadnought-class submarines in the 2030s. Between 31billion and 41billion has been set aside for the wider programme of replacing the Vanguard-class submarines, according to figures from the House of Commons Library. HMS Vanguard left Plymouth last year after its 500million overhaul, three years past the initial scheduled end-date. It was after a similar refurbishment that HMS Vengeance had a Trident missile misfire, which veered dangerously off course and self-destructed. Britain's then-Prime Minister was accused of covering up the incident ahead of a vote to decide whether or not to renew Britain's nuclear deterrent. The failed test is latest embarrassment for the Royal Navay, which earlier this month was branded a Royal Navy was branded a laughing stock after its flagship aircraft carrier was pulled out of a NATO exercise due to a faulty propeller shaft. HMS Queen Elizabeth was due to set sail from Portsmouth to help lead the western military alliance's biggest exercise since the Cold War. But the 3.5billion, 65,000-ton ship was pulled out at the 11th hour after rust was discovered on the affected part leaving it at risk of it breaking down at sea. MPs, at the time, described the development as 'excruciatingly embarrassing'. The Queen Elizabeth's sister carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, broke down near the Isle of Wight after setting sail for America just 18 months ago also due to a faulty propeller shaft. Pictured: A trident missile test firing off Cape Canaveral, Florida from HMS Vanguard in October 2005 A team of Royal Navy service personnel in the control room of HMS Vigilant, one of Britain's nuclear subs, in January 2016 Crew from HMS Vengeance look out from the conning tower as they return along the Clyde river to the Faslane naval base near Glasgow, Scotland on December 4, 2006 The naval mishaps come at a time of high global tension, with rising fears that Britain and her allies could be pulled into a conflict in the coming years. 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. Leaked German intelligence documents suggest Berlin expects Russia to launch another wave of attacks to overwhelm Ukraine, and is scrambling to come up with contingency plans in the event Russian troops march westward from Belarus. The Israel-Hamas conflict threatens to spread violence across the Middle East, with Iran's so-called 'Axis of Resistance' - including Lebanon's Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels - increasing their attacks on Israel and commercial shipping routes, prompting the UK and US to launch a series of devastating strikes by air and sea. Further East, Taiwan's election of a new democracy-loving president has angered Beijing even further, with a Chinese invasion of the island nation in the coming years looking ever more likely. And all the while, Kim Jong Un stands by with his fist clenching the keys to North Korea's nuclear arsenal, ready to plunge his foes into radioactive winter. A nine-year-old boy is in stable condition after his younger sister was killed when a sand hole they were digging collapsed on top op them at the beach in Fort Lauderdale. An audio of the 911 call reporting the horrifying incident offers a glimpse into the frantic moments on Tuesday as over a dozen adults tried to save the siblings trapped in the sand. 'There's reference to a child caught in a hole in the sand by the High Noon Resort Hotel. Still receiving, unknown age of the child, unknown if they're fully buried,' the dispatcher said. 'There's about 20 people trying to find the child.' The little girl died after being trapped in the sand for about 15 minutes after the sand hole she was digging collapsed on top of her. Witnesses said the children were digging the hole and playing inside of it when the ground gave way. Cell phone footage show the moment a crowd of desperate beachgoers started trying to dig them out before firefighters arrived. Authorities are investigating a tragic accident on a popular Florida beach. Two children under the age of 8 were digging in the sand when it suddenly collapsed around them. A young girl was killed and her brother is hospitalized. @sambrocknbc reports. pic.twitter.com/AlJuMx0HX7 TODAY (@TODAYshow) February 21, 2024 Frantic passersby got on their knees and dug with their hands in a desperate attempt to reach the girl Moments later, a group of adults was seen rushing one of the two children off the beach for medical attention, while other youngsters watched the horror unfold Bystanders recorded the moments after the collapse showing people on their knees digging with their hands through the sand. Some tried to hold the walls back to stop more sand from collapsing in on the children. Other children stood and watched as the dreadful scene unfolded before their eyes. The brother and sister were both rushed to hospital but the girl was declared dead on arrival. Their identities have not yet been released. It is also unclear who was looking after them at the time of the tragedy. Spokesperson for Pompano Beach Fire, Sandra King, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that the adults who were with the children were too distraught to provide additional details at the scene. She said the hole was about five to six feet deep when it collapsed leaving the boy buried up to his chest with the girl completely buried beneath him. The little girl did not have a pulse when she emerged from the sand, per King. King added: 'We were conducting life-saving techniques to try to bring her pulse back, and it never did recover and she was pronounced dead at the hospital.' 'The boy was three or four feet down but at that point, his head was above the sand. I guess his sister was beside him and she was down further. They tried to dig her out, the more the sand collapsed,' witness David Davies told WSVN. 'They tried putting boards to try and keep the sand from falling in She was down for quite awhile.' Discarded buckets and toys could be seen in the aftermath of the desperate rescue attempt A crowd gathered to help try to dig the children out until the authorities arrived The girl was rushed to Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale where tragically she was declared dead. The boy's parents put him in a sheriff's car and he was also taken to the hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. It wasn't immediately clear if any adults were helping the children dig the hole or were playing in it with them. King said she does not know if the family is local or were visiting. She said the Sheriff's Office is investigating. Broward Sheriff's deputies and paramedics rushed to the beach at 3.16pm on Tuesday to the 4400 block of El Mar Drive. In the aftermath of the collapse a crowd of people could be seen standing around the massive pit. Hauntingly, two buckets could be seen nearby. It's unclear if these belonged to the children caught up in the collapse. Aerial shots showed how wide the hole was after it collapsed on Tuesday afternoon Authorities cordoned off the hole while the children were rushed to hospital Others used shovels and beach toys to scrape sand away from the hole. 'I mean you saw grown men digging with shovels and buckets and nobody could find her 'I guess when the wall caved in she may have been laying flat and so maybe it just kind of pancaked her. The dad was able to pull his son out but the daughter was still underneath the sand,' a witness told Local10 News. When authorities arrived they cordoned off the beach leaving the giant hole still half filled with discarded children's buckets and spades lying by. Scanner traffic saw a dispatcher describe a scene involving '20 people digging to find the child' to responding officers. The dispatcher calls the child 'about 8-years-old.' Although sand hole deaths are very rare, they are not unheard of and there have been studies and warnings published about them. Last week at Jersey Shore Beach, a toddler became trapped after a hole he was playing in collapsed and buried him. After an initial panic, the boys father was able to save him. Last May, a 17-year-old boy died in the small resort town of Frisco, on the Outer Banks in Virginia after he became trapped in a hole that was dug in a back-dune area behind the beachs primary dune along the Atlantic Ocean. The teenager was buried under several feet of sand after an adjacent dune apparently collapsed into the hole. After his death, a property management and vacation home company in the Outer Banks Seaside Vacations wrote a blog after a fatal sand collapse in the area about the dangers of digging holes at the beach. They said: 'Sand is, by nature, structurally unstable. Beach erosion, storms, and the removal of sand can weaken the area, potentially causing issues even after the hole has been filled back in.' They recommended never digging deeper than knee height, particularly not in an area with dunes. A young girl was pronounced dead on arrival but the young boy survived and is in a stable condition Sand hole deaths are rare but there have been a few in recent years In 2022, Levi Caverly, 18, died after he and his 17-year-old sister became trapped when the sand collapsed on them inside a deep hole they were digging at the beach in Toms River. Levi died in the collapse while his sister was rescued alive. In 2012, another teen died after being trapped under a collapsed sand dune at Snow Canyon State Park, about 50 miles northwest of where Levi died. Also in 2022, a 35-year-old man was found dead with his feet sticking out of the sand along the Treasure Coast where he had leant on some sand before it collapsed on top of him. There were 52 deadly and non-deadly sand hole incidents between 1997 and 2007, according to a 2007 study in the New England Journal of Medicine. The study said it was an uncommon and underrecognized hazard. It said: 'Typically, victims became completely submerged in the sand when the walls of the hole unexpectedly collapsed, leaving virtually no evidence of the hole or the location of the victim. 'Collapse was inadvertently triggered by a variety of circumstances, including digging, tunneling, jumping, or falling into the hole.' Andrew Rosindell was today cheered by fellow Tory MPs following his return to the House of Commons after police dropped a two-year rape and sexual assault probe. The Romford MP was greeted with shouts of 'hear, hear' from the Government benches as he spoke during Prime Minister's Questions this afternoon. It was the 57-year-old's first meaningful contribution in the House of Commons since the Metropolitan Police informed him he was facing no further action. Mr Rosindell was arrested in May 2022 on suspicion of indecent assault, sexual assault, rape, abuse of position of trust and misconduct in public office. But, last week, Scotland Yard concluded evidence 'did not meet the threshold' for prosecution after a 'thorough investigation'. Andrew Rosindell was cheered by fellow Tory MPs following his return to the House of Commons after police dropped a two-year rape and sexual assault probe The Romford MP was greeted with shouts of 'hear, hear' from the Government benches as he spoke during Prime Minister's Questions Mr Rosindell pictured with Margaret Thatcher in Romford in 2001. He urged Rishi Sunak to follow in the ex-PM's footsteps and 'meet the people of Romford' In a question to PM Rishi Sunak, Mr Rosindell said today: 'I've had the privilege to be spending a lot of time with the law-abiding, taxpaying, hardworking, patriotic people of Romford in recent months. 'And they've been telling me what they think. So I would like to ask the PM if he agrees with the people of Romford that we need a radical plan to control immigration and stop illegal immigration. 'That we need to regain sovereignty over our human rights laws in this country, that we need to tell the mayor of London we need more police to stop crime in the London borough of Havering, that we need a fair funding settlement for Havering. 'So will he come with me to Romford market, follow the footsteps of Margaret Thatcher, meet the people of Romford. 'Because the one thing I can tell him they don't want is to be taken back into the European Union by a socialist government.' Mr Sunak replied: 'Can I welcome him back to his place. Can I say I agree with everything he said and I look forward to visiting him and his Romford constituents at the earliest opportunity.' Mr Rosindell remained as Romford's MP throughout the Scotland Yard probe but agreed to a request by the Conservative chief whip to stay away from Parliament. Before this week, he had not voted in the Commons since April 2022 after police received a report relating to alleged offences taking place in London between 2002 and 2009. He yesterday swore the oath of allegiance to King Charles as he marked his return to Parliament. Mr Rosindell's previous spoken contribution in the Commons was on April 25 2022 almost five months before the death of the then Queen. The former local councillor, who was first elected to the Commons in 2001, said he had been 'completely exonerated' after Scotland Yard last week found he had 'no case to answer'. He was reselected to fight the next general election for the Tories in Romford in March last year. A Met Police spokesperson said last week: 'A thorough investigation has been carried out by detectives. 'They concluded that the evidence did not meet the threshold set by Crown prosecutors. 'The man has been informed he will face no further action.' A spokesman for Mr Rosindell said: 'In relation to an allegation made in May 2022 by an individual against Andrew Rosindell, the Metropolitan Police have conducted a thorough investigation and concluded that there was no case to answer and that no further action would be taken. 'Andrew has been completely exonerated. He has been working constantly for Romford throughout the past 21 months and will continue to speak up for the people of his beloved home town as their local MP.' Video footage reveals the shocking moment a migrant in a 'stolen state-owned tow truck' smashed into multiple cars and injuring two cops in a wild chase in Maryland. Cesar Flavio Lanuza, a 27-year-old citizen of Nicaragua who is allegedly in the United States illegally, led authorities on the reckless hour-long high-speed chase last Friday - hitting at least 20 vehicles along the way. The suspect allegedly took off in a stolen State Highway Administration tow truck who was assisting someone at a park-and-ride off Interstate 95 in Beltsville. Lanuza traveled onto the Beltway, hitting three vehicles at around 5:15 pm. As police initiated a pursuit, the driver drove through a grassy area, snagging utility lines and hitting more cars as it drove onto oncoming traffic. The truck then did a U-turn - ramming into police cruisers head on. Two police officers were injured and have now been released from the hospital, according to Maryland State Police. Cesar Flavio Lanuza, a citizen of Nicaragua who is allegedly in the United States illegally, led authorities on a reckless chase last Friday The high speed chase involved collisions with at least 20 other vehicles and police cruisers before coming to a halt in Silver Spring Following the incident, Lanuza, currently hospitalized, was arrested with a detainer request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Montgomery County detention center. Once released from the hospital, he is expected to be transferred to the detention center. The pending charges against Lanuza include reckless, negligent and aggressive driving, failure to stop, assault and theft. James Convington, spokesperson for ICE's Enforcement Removal Operations in Baltimore, told Fox News Digital in a statement, 'Cesar Flavio Lanuza is an unlawfully present citizen and national of Nicaragua.' Darius Reeves, a Baltimore field office director for ICE, emphasized the agency's desire to take custody of him after the state concludes its proceedings. 'Once the state is done with their business with him, we would love for him to be brought into our custody,' he told Fox. The detainer filed on Lanuza is part of ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations, which focuses on apprehending and deporting individuals who undermine public safety and violate federal immigration laws. ICE has previously criticized Montgomery County for not honoring immigration detainer requests. Ira Mehlman of the Federation for American Immigration Reform emphasized the need for cooperation from local jurisdictions in cases where individuals not only violate immigration laws but also pose a threat to public safety. 'They shouldn't be in the country simply because they're violating our immigration laws,' Ira Mehlman of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, told the news outlet. 'But clearly, once someone has taken that additional step and poses a danger to society at large, then the local jurisdictions, in the interest of protecting the people in their own communities, should be more than willing to cooperate.' This comes just a day after one person was arrested following a violent confrontation last week between NYPD officers and migrants at the city's Randall's Island center - with the mayhem captured on video. Following the incident, Lanuza, currently hospitalized, was arrested with a detainer request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Chaos broke out in the increasingly lawless tent camp on Thursday when an individual not registered to stay at the facility was asked to leave by officials, police said. Video circulated on social media shows police apprehending one individual before several others joined the fray. No serious injuries occurred, police later said. It is the latest in a series of violent assaults since Randall's Island began housing migrants in August 2023 as New York struggled to house large numbers arriving from other states. Just last month, a 24-year-old man was stabbed to death on the island while waiting in line for food. Earlier this month, several of the migrants believed to have fled New York City after being charged with assaulting two NYPD officers have been arrested in Phoenix. The migrants, who have not yet been named, were taken into custody at an Arizona Greyhound bus station, Immigration and Customs Enforcement sources told Fox News. They are part of a group of six migrants who were arrested and charged with Robbery and Felony Assault following a vicious attack on NYPD officers in Times Square on January 27. Police sources previously said that four of the migrants charged in the Times Square attack - Darwin Andres Gomez, 19; Kelvin Servita Arocha, 19; Wilson Juarez, 21, and Yorman Reveron, 24 - may have fled the city after using fake names to obtain tickets from a charity that helps migrants. Venezuelan national Yohenry Brito, 24, was arraigned in Manhattan criminal court on Thursday and is the only one of the suspects being held on bail at Rikers Island. Video circulated on social media shows police apprehending one individual before several others joined the fray A violent confrontation between NYPD officers and migrants at the city's Randall's Island shelter center As of December 2023, more than 140,000 migrants had flooded into the city over an 18-month period, stretching the city to its limits. The city authorities have spent about $3.5 billion on the thousands of migrants and nearly 70,000 remain in city shelters. New York is a Right to Shelter state and is required to house the asylum seekers but shelters have filled up at an astronomical rate. In Manhattan, a number of landmark hotels have been turned into makeshift shelters and temporary housing. King Charles III held his first face-to-face meeting with the Prime Minister since it was revealed he is battling cancer, telling Rishi Sunak that the 'wonderful messages and cards' he has received since his diagnosis have 'reduced me to tears.' His Majesty appeared in good spirits as he arrived for the meeting with Mr Sunak at Buckingham Palace today, in what was their first audience of the year. The Prime Minister told the King that it was 'very nice to see you', to which Charles responded: 'A bit of a gap I'm afraid,' referring to the disruption to their weekly meetings. Mr Sunak reassured him that 'we're all behind you, the country is behind you', and added that it was 'wonderful to see you looking so well.' In typical good humour, the King jokingly replied: 'Well, it's all done by mirrors, really.' Before the pair's private discussion, the 75-year-old monarch also met with members of the Privy Council in person on Tuesday evening. Charles' profound sense of duty and strong work ethic has seen him continue working privately through treatment, but this is the first time the King has been pictured carrying out royal duties. King Charles met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at Buckingham Palace today, with the pair seen smiling during their first face-to-face meeting since the monarch's cancer diagnosis Charles beamed as he shook hands with Mr Sunak during the in-person audience The monarch and Prime Minister shared a joke or two during the meeting King Charles was seen leaving Sandringham shortly after 3pm on Wednesday afternoon on his return to London The monarch and Prime Minister met in Buckingham Palace's Audience Room, greeting each other in front of the cameras before conducting the rest of the audience in private, as is usually the case. The King spoke of his admiration for cancer charities, telling Mr Sunak: 'I hear there has been a lot more potential attention on those main, wonderful cancer charities, many of which I have been a patron of for years.' The Prime Minister responded: 'They do incredible work up and down the country.' Charles has been continuing in his duties as head of state but has paused all public engagements as he undergoes treatment for an unspecified form of cancer. It was discovered by doctors while he was treated for an enlarged prostate in late January, but is not prostate cancer. His diagnosis was announced by Buckingham Palace just days later as it was confirmed doctors had noticed a 'separate issue of concern'. The Prime Minister reassured the nation when he previously said that King Charles' disease had been 'caught early'. The monarch is now spending much of his time at his Norfolk retreat Sandringham, although sources say he is well enough to continue a small number of face-to-face meetings. He will also be carrying out some duties remotely. Among the work he will continue to carry out is his daily perusal of his red boxes of paperwork, containing all his documents of state. In a letter released shortly a week after the news was announced, King Charles thanked the British public for their 'many messages of support and good wishes'. His Majesty, 75, is seen greeting the Prime Minister as they met at Buckingham Palace today This is the first time the King has been pictured carrying out royal duties The pair met in Buckingham Palace's Audience Room. They were pictured meeting before conducting the rest of the audience in private He continued: 'As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement. 'It is equally heartening to hear how sharing my own diagnosis has helped promote public understanding and shine a light on the work of all those organisations which support cancer patients and their families across the UK and wider world. 'My lifelong admiration for their tireless care and dedication is all the greater as a result of my own personal experience.' Members of the Royal family have rallied around the King, with Prince William returning to duties after spending time caring for his wife Princess Kate. In a separate health scare, the Princess of Wales had been admitted to The London Clinic for planned abdominal surgery, and she will not be able to perform any royal engagements until at least Easter . King Charles and Queen Camilla smile and wave to wellwishers as they attended church at Sandringham on Sunday King Charles pictured leaving The London Clinic after his prostate surgery alongside his wife Prince Harry is pictured arriving at Clarence House to meet his father after his cancer diagnosis Experts hope that the diagnosis will bring some kind of reconciliation between Harry and his father and brother Sajid Javid was among those to be knighted by Prince William at Windsor Castle today Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke (centre) said William made her and her mother feel 'so comfortable' while he presented them with their honours The heir to the throne, 41, held an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle earlier this month before attending London's Air Ambulance charity gala dinner later that evening. On Sunday he attended the BAFTA awards and met with filmmakers and stars, as well as congratulating awards winners, before giving out more awards at a second investiture today. Former Chancellor Sir Sajid Javid was also among those to be knighted by the Prince of Wales for his services to politics and public life, while Game of Thrones actress Emilia Clarke and her mother were handed MBEs for setting up a brain injury charity. However William's father is said to be supportive of him putting his own family first, and taking time out of engagements to look after his wife and children. It is understood he visited his father at Sandringham for a half-term holiday along with Kate and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. A source said: 'The King adores Catherine and thinks she is doing a wonderful job. He understands that family comes first.' Meanwhile the King was visited in London by Prince Harry, who cleared his diary to fly over from his California home in Montecito while leaving wife Meghan Markle and his two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lillibet, behind. The Duke of Sussex, 39, flew to London on a commercial plane the day after the announcement, arriving at Clarence House in the afternoon. He is then thought to have spent around 45 minutes with his father, seeing him for the first time since the late Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. Harry is not believed to have seen his brother, with the rift between Charles' sons showing few signs of ever repairing. The prince then stayed overnight in a hotel before flying home the next morning. Meanwhile King Charles and Queen Camilla were driven straight from their meeting with Harry to Buckingham Palace, where they took a helicopter to their Sandringham estate. Harry is expected to return to Britain in May for a service at St Paul's Cathedral to mark the tenth anniversary of the Invictus Games. In an interview with Good Morning America this week, Harry said he was pleased to have visited the UK to see his father. The prince, who headed to Vancouver, Canada, last week with his wife Meghan for an Invictus Games celebration, said he would return to see him again as he has other trips to the UK planned and did not discount the suggestion that his family rift could be healed by the crisis. The King has spent the majority of time at the Norfolk residence and was seen braving the wind and rain on Sunday as he attended church with his wife. Kate, 42, is on the mend and last week joined her husband and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis on a half-term holiday on the Sandringham estate The heir to the throne took time off to support his family, after the Princess of Wales underwent planned abdominal surgery King Charles, who revealed earlier this month that he is suffering from 'a form of cancer', and Queen Camilla, pictured at church He offered a smile and a wave out from underneath his umbrella as he arrived at St Mary Magdalene Church and smiled at wellwishers. Queen Camilla also spoke about her husband's diagnosis during her first public engagement since the announcement. The 76-year-old took a five-hour drive from her husband's side at Sandringham to Wiltshire's Salisbury's Cathedral earlier this month after the local helipad flooded. Attending a charity musical evening, the Queen 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. That's very cheering.' The Palace has called for the King's 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. A host of medical professionals from different groups have commended the King's candour over his health. Nancy Pelosi mingled with royalty in San Francisco on Tuesday night as she and husband Paul Pelosi joined the Crown Princess of Sweden for a royal event. The Democratic duo joined Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden for the opening of Sweden's new Counsel General office. The foursome dressed up for the occasion with Victoria wearing a green dress by Swedish designer Malina. Pelosi, who is on a two-week break from Congress, wore black pants and a vibrant purple jacket. From left to right: Johan Forssell, Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Prince Daniel of Sweden, Representative Nancy Pelosi and Paul Pelosi attend the Inaugural Reception of the New Consulate General of Sweden in San Francisco The Swedish couple - who have been married for almost 14 years - are on a three-day royal tour of California. They began their time in San Francisco doing the typical touristy things: visiting the Golden Gate Bridge and hiking the Rodeo Beach Coastal Trailhead. The main event of their visit was Tuesday evening's new grand opening of a Swedish Consulate General office. San Francisco has a large Swedish population. They'll also meet with California Governor Gavin Newsom and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. They'll end their visit in Palo Alto, including a visit to Stanford University. Paul Pelosi has made returned to being by his wife's side after being attacked with a hammer during a break in in 2022 at the couple's San Francisco home. A federal grand jury found David DePape guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official. Nancy Pelosi declined to make another run as Democratic leader in the House in order to make way for a new generation of leadership. She serves as Speaker Emerita and has said she plans to run for another term as representative of speaker. Princess Victoria is the heir apparent as the eldest child of King Carl XVI Gustaf. If she succeeds her father to the throne, she will be the fourth Queen of Sweden and the first since 1720. Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden are on a three-day visit to California Nancy Pelosi with husband Paul Pelosi Nancy Pelosi and Paul Pelosi greet Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden The couple happily posed for pictures by San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge on the first day of their tour Crown Princess Victoria stopped to take a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge Pictured: Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden pose for a photo at the Golden Gate Bridge The couple's tour of San Francisco will come to an end on Thursday. The royal couple are visiting California with Sweden's Minister of State Johan Forssel to develop the country's relationship with the US state. Earlier this year, Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel visited the UK - where they attended the Royal Variety Performance with the Prince and Princess of Wales In 1979, Sweden was among the very first monarchies to introduce absolute primogeniture, a move only followed by the United Kingdom in 2013. The Crown Princess began to assist her parents King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia with their work after turning 18 in 1995. When she is crowned, Victoria will become the first reigning queen in the royal family of Sweden since 1818 following the parliamentary change to the Act of Succession that introduced absolute primogeniture. She met her now-husband, Prince Daniel, 49, who was her former personal trainer following doctor-ordered sessions amid her eating disorder recovery. The couple were married in 2010 after a long-term relationship, and are now parents to Princess Estelle, Duchess of Ostergotland, 11, and Prince Oscar, Duke of Skane, seven. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden looked glamorous in a colourful silk skirt by the designer Saloni Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel of Sweden (centre) visit the Scandinavian School and Cultural Center The mother-of-two styled her long brown hair into a low bun and completed her look with a pair of orange dangly earrings The future Queen of Sweden was given a bouquet of flowers following her arrival at the school in San Francisco Victoria intends to let her 'children be children' away from the limelight and will introduce them gradually into their roles as royals, according to People. Born in 2012, Princess Estelle is the eldest child of Crown Princess Victoria and is next in line to the Swedish throne after her mother. The princess previously attended a preschool near Stockholm which followed the Ur and Skur outdoor teaching methods to focus on the natural world. She now attends Campus Manilla in Stockholm where she was joined last year by her younger brother, Prince Oscar. The young Princess Estelle regularly makes appearances with her mother Crown Princess Victoria and her father Daniel Westling. She carried out her first royal engagement in 2014 at just two years old when she opened a 'fairytale path' at Linkoping Castle. Veterans' minister Johnny Mercer was today warned he faces 'serious legal consequences' over refusing to name officers who told him about alleged crimes by British troops in Afghanistan. The Cabinet minister insisted he was 'not intimidated' by the public inquiry during extraordinary clashes with counsel as he gave a second day of evidence. The chair, Lord Justice Sir Charles Haddon-Cave, cautioned Mr Mercer that he could face 'serious legal consequences' if he did not comply and his patience was not 'inexhaustible'. Mr Mercer, himself a former soldier, described in his witness statement to the probe that allegations had been brought to him by 'multiple officers' during his time as a backbench MP. But he told counsel to the inquiry Oliver Glasgow KC yesterday that 'at this stage' he was 'not prepared to burn them' - stressing they had not been 'first-hand witnesses' to abuses. Johnny Mercer insisted he was 'not intimidated' by the public inquiry during extraordinary clashes with counsel as he gave a second day of evidence After counsel Oliver Glasgow (right) clashed with Mr Mercer, the inquiry chair, Lord Justice Sir Charles Haddon-Cave (left), cautioned the minister he could face 'serious legal consequences' if he did not comply and his patience was not 'inexhaustible' Mr Glasgow revisited the issue today, and asked Mr Mercer if he would be willing to 'confidentially provide' the identities. 'I am going to reflect on the chair's remarks yesterday and do everything I can to assist the inquiry,' he said. But tensions flared further when Mr Glasgow suggested Mr Mercer was not abiding by his oath to the inquiry and was part of a 'wall of silence'. 'I've always told the truth. I hope you're not suggesting otherwise,' Mr Mercer said. 'I've answered all your questions. You asked me if I would name people in court and the answer was no.' The hearing was then suspended for a few moments for discussions. When it returned Mr Glasgow again told him he needed to reflect on his refusal to answer. Mr Mercer said he would reflect, but added: 'You've just highlighted my point that I've tried to make to you a couple of times, in that if you truly want to get to these allegations, to the centre of these allegations, which I believe you do and I believe the chair does, there is no point trying to frame whether I've taken an oath to tell the truth or not. 'This court doesn't intimate me, you don't intimidate me. I will try and help you let me finish I will try and help you as much as I can. But that is the same for individuals who will come across this court. They are not intimidated by being in this court. There are greater issues at stake. 'And you are not going to get there if you persistently say, make out or infer through your questioning, that I am not helping you, or I am not here to tell the truth or help the inquiry.' Mr Glasgow said: 'Well, are you here to help the inquiry?' A clearly infuriated Mr Mercer said after a pause: 'I think I'll let that one go, Sir.' Sir Charles Haddon-Cave told Mr Mercer his decision to 'refuse to answer legitimate questions at a public inquiry' was 'disappointing surprising and completely unacceptable'. Addressing Mr Mercer before he concluded his evidence, the chairman said: 'As you'll appreciate, this is not the end of your evidence, or indeed your attendance before me because as Mr Glasgow has had to say, the plain fact of the matter is that you have, at least for the moment, refused to answer legitimate questions by leading counsel at a public inquiry in particular 'what are the names of people who've spoken to you about these matters?' 'I'm bound to say this is frankly very disappointing and surprising for someone in your position and I'm bound to say, completely unacceptable. The inquiry is looking at issues arising from the deployment of British Special Forces to Afghanistan from mid-2010 to mid-2013 (stock photo) 'It gives rise to potentially serious legal consequences which may need to be put in train.' Sir Charles said he had been 'very patient and I hope understanding'. 'None of this is easy and I completely get that.' But he added: 'My patience is not inexhaustible.' The inquiry is looking at issues arising from the deployment of British Special Forces to Afghanistan from mid-2010 to mid-2013. Two Royal Military Police investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the inquiry. No charges were brought under Operation Northmoor a 10million investigation which was set up in 2014 to examine allegations of executions by special forces, including those of children. Operation Cestro saw three soldiers referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority, but none of them were prosecuted. The inquiry continues. A crazed woman has been caught viciously slapping a tourist after kicking puppy kennels inside a New York City pet store at the weekend. Shocking footage shows the moment the unhinged customer launched her attack in Citipups, Chelsea, on a woman visiting from Texas, leaving her visibly shaken. NYPD told DailyMail.com the victim was left with a bloody nose after the rampage Saturday afternoon - and the violent patron also assaulted another woman in the store moments before. 'The first victim, a 45 year old female, states while she was inside the location looking at puppies an unknown female approached her and proceeded to grab her hand,' the department said. A crazed woman (pictured in the gray coat) has been caught viciously slapping a tourist after allegedly kicking puppy kennels inside a New York City pet store at the weekend Shocking footage shows the moment the unhinged customer launched her attack in Citipups, Chelsea, on a woman visiting from Texas , leaving her visibly shaken NYPD told DailyMail.com the victim was left with a bloody nose after the rampage Saturday afternoon - and the violent patron (pictured) also assaulted another woman in the store moments before 'The suspect then knocked the phone out her hand causing pain to the victim's hand. The second female victim states the suspect slapped her in the face with an open hand causing pain, swelling and bleeding to the victim's nose.' NYPD said the suspect fled the store and she has not yet been detained. The investigation remains ongoing. Video captured by the store manager Emilio Ortiz shows the raging customer stomping towards him before swiping at him aggressively. He can be heard saying 'what is wrong with you?' and 'get the f*** out of here' as she marches away with a stony expression. She stomps towards the exit, only briefly pausing to audibly slap another woman with excessive force. The assault prompts a gasp from the manager and screams from several people in the store. She turns back to the customers briefly as she opens the door, appearing to spit in their direction before fleeing. The attack was also caught from another angle on surveillance cameras, showing her kicking puppy kennels moments before. A store employee notices her behavior and calmly approaches - but she responds by appearing to shout at him with her face millimeters from his. She squares up to the employee before another staff member escorts her away. Surveillance footage above the exit also shows the slap victim looking startled and upset after the assault. NYPD said the suspect fled the store and she has not yet been detained. The investigation remains ongoing. (Pictured: the suspect approaching the manager moments before the slap) The suspect (pictured) turned back to the customers briefly as she opened the door, appearing to spit in their direction before fleeing A man in the store could be seen comforting the slap victim afterwards and positioning himself as though to protect her from any more potential attacks 'She was bleeding, she had a nosebleed, she was like really distraught because it was her first time in New York,' manager Ortiz told the New York Post. 'So she was a tourist, and it's, like, imagine being your first day in New York, you're just walking around all of sudden some crazy person just assaults you.' He added that the attack was 'totally unprovoked' and that the victim was visiting from Texas. Ortiz said he believed the suspect had 'some sort of manic episode or something'. A man in the store could be seen comforting the slap victim afterwards and positioning himself as though to protect her from any more potential attacks. NYPD did not respond to questions about whether the suspect has been identified as she remains on the loose. A huge queue of pro-Palestine protesters formed outside Parliament today as they prepared to meet their MPs to demand a vote for a ceasefire in Gaza. Demonstrators waved Palestine flags and chanted 'Israel is a terrorist state' while they waited to speak to MPs as part of a 'mass lobbying' session - ahead of a 'Stop the Genocide' rally from 5pm - which is being met with a heavy police presence. Projections have been shone on the Elizabeth Tower reading 'Gaza' and 'stop bombs' during the rally as MPs debated an SNP motion demanding an 'immediate ceasefire' in the occupied Palestinian territory. Others waved placards calling an end to combat actions between Hamas fighters and the IDF, ahead of a feared ground action in Rafah where some 1.5million displaced Palestinians are sheltering from the ongoing war. The Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, which organised the march as part of the Free Palestine Coalition, claimed 'thousands' had gathered in the square. 'Gaza' was projected onto the Elizabeth Tower at night as the protest outside Parliament continued as MPs debated calling for a ceasefire in the Middle East Protesters chanted 'Israel is a terrorist state' as the demo continued in Parliament Square Protesters capture images of the ongoing rally in Parliament Square as the debate inside the House of Commons continues Other projections were also shone onto the Elizabeth Tower - including a depiction of explosives and the slogan 'stop bombs' Protesters waved banners calling for MPs to back an SNP motion calling for a ceasefire in Gaza Members of the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community hold placards as they protest in Parliament Square, condemning what they called 'unending Israeli brutality' Pro-Palestine demonstrators outside Parliament as MPs debate an SNP motion calling for a ceasefire in Gaza Protestors waved Palestine flags and chanted ' Israel is a terrorist state' while waiting in the rain Thousands of activists descended on Parliament Square for the 'Stop the Genocide' rally from 4pm - which is being met with a heavy police presence Pro-Palestine protesters shout as they attend the rally outside the Houses of Parliament The action came after twelve people were arrested at a pro-Palestine protest in central London on Saturday for offences including inciting racial hatred, supporting a proscribed organisation and assaulting emergency workers. Protesters met at the south of Park Lane, holding banners calling for a 'ceasefire now' and chanting 'free, free Palestine', before congregating outside the Israeli embassy where speeches were made. Among the speakers was former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Palestinian ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot, who both called for 'justice' for the Palestinian people. It comes amid high tension in the Commons over the SNP motion calling for a ceasefire. In a controversial development, Speaker Lindsay Hoyle announced he had selected amendments tabled by Labour and the Government to the nationalists' motion. The move, which came in for criticism from the Conservatives and the SNP, means Labour MPs will be able to vote for Sir Keir's stance, which includes the caveats that Hamas must hand back hostages and lay down weapons. There had been suggestions that, with the Conservative Government also submitting an amendment stating its own position of wanting an 'immediate humanitarian pause', that the Speaker would not choose Labour's amendment for debate. Such an outcome could have pushed those Labour MPs in favour of a ceasefire towards backing the SNP motion, in a repeat of a damaging rebellion that was witnessed in the autumn on the Middle East issue. In the chamber, there was uproar at Sir Lindsay's decision to choose the Labour amendment for debate. Twelve people were arrested at a pro-Palestine protest in central London on Saturday The 'Stop the Genocide' rally will begin at around 4pm, with officers restricting those taking part to Parliament Square It comes as two people were hit with criminal charges following a previous pro-Palestine march on Saturday READ MORE - Keir Starmer is saved from Gaza chaos by Commons Speaker as he says Labour WILL get a vote on its own amendment during SNP debate demanding 'immediate ceasefire' Advertisement Lucia Whittaker De Abrew, 34, from Derby has been charged with failing to remove a face covering when required, while 48-year-old Martin Prady, from Martock in Somerset, is accused of obstructing a constable in the execution of their duty. De Abrew will appear at Croydon Magistrates' Court on March 5 and Prady is due to attend Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on March 4. Five of the arrested have been bailed, while the others face no further action, the Metropolitan Police said. Tens of thousands are thought to have been at Saturday's demonstration, with Scotland Yard saying the 'overwhelming majority' were peaceful and acted lawfully. Police first arrested a woman on suspicion of support for a proscribed organisation, after she was allegedly spotted with a signpost which read 'Long Live The Intifada'. Later, while arresting a man for carrying an anti-Semitic banner, a punchup broke out in which officers were assaulted - leading to six more arrests. Two further arrests were made against demonstrators who refused to remove their face coverings. Prince William called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention on Tuesday In an extraordinary and symbolically significant statement the future king said the 'terrible human cost' of the conflict had seen 'too many killed' Other marchers, some of them children, carried placards declaring 'I thought Hitler was dead' and 'Turns out killing kids is okay, I'm scared for my life'. Besides the familiar chant of 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,' another rallying cry was 'Occupation no more, Israel is a terror state'. Prince William called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an unprecedented royal intervention on Tuesday. His carefully-chosen words are the strongest yet by a senior royal in response to Israel's devastating military action in Gaza following the sickening terror attacks of October 7. They came ahead of a visit by the Prince of Wales to the British Red Cross in London to discuss the spiralling humanitarian crisis in Gaza and beyond. His statement was issued with the knowledge of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and welcomed by Downing Street, which said his 'measured' call for an end to the fighting was in line with the Government's position. William said: 'I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. 'I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It's critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. 'Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home.' Special Counsel David Weiss charged Alexander Smirnov last week with lying about Biden after he became a presidential candidate In a shocking new filing, prosecutors stated Smirnov has 'extensive foreign ties' and was in contact with Russian intelligence House Republicans are demanding answers on the former FBI informant charged with lying about the Biden family and alleged bribes after the shocking revelation the informant admitted he received information from Russian intelligence operatives. But GOP lawmakers deny it has explosive implications for their impeachment probe into the president. Last week, Special Counsel David Weiss charged former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov, 43, with lying about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden taking $5 million bribes from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma. In a bombshell new filing on Tuesday, prosecutors stated that Smirnov admitted after his arrest 'that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Businessperson 1,' referring to Hunter Biden, President Biden's son. In a post on X on Wednesday, the House Oversight Committee Republicans failed to address the Russian intelligence ties, writing 'DOJ and FBI have a lot of explaining to do about their reliance on the informant whose allegations were included in the FBI-generated FD-1023.' Republicans had made the FD-1023 form in which Smirnov made the false claims central to their case to impeach the sitting president. Republicans want to know why the FBI and DOJ used the informant, why they paid the informant six figures, and why did the DOJ 'sit on serious allegations from the informant whom the FBI deemed highly credible for years before investigating the claims?' House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer said in a recent interview 'the math keeps getting worse' in the Republican impeachment probe into President Biden, signaling the likelihood of a vote has decreased According to the filing Tuesday, 'Smirnov lied to his FBI Handler after a 10-year relationship where the two spoke nearly every day.' In response to the new details about Russian intelligence, Rep. William Timmons, R-SC, told reporters on Wednesday 'we'll figure it out.' Timmons claimed it 'does not have any impact on the enormous amount of circumstantial evidence we have that Hunter and Jim Biden, were selling Joe Biden's policy decisions for millions of dollars.' 'So whether the confidential human source lied to the FBI, I don't know, we'll find out,' he said. Rep Jim Jordan, R-OH, also pushed back, questioning why the FBI was paying Smirnov since 2010 as a 'trusted source.' He claimed Smirnov being charged with lying does not change the facts. Special Counsel David Weiss has charged a former FBI informant with lying about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden taking a $5million bribe from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma The filing went on to say the 'false information' Smirnov he provided was not 'trivial' because it 'targeted the presumptive nominee of one of the two major political parties,' referring to Joe Biden Rp. Raskin said the impeachment probe was 'essentially ended' in substance after a filing showed Smirnov received story about Hunter Biden from Russian intelligence Democrats have called for the impeachment probe to end. 'The impeachment investigation essentially ended yesterday in substance if not in form with the explosive revelation that Mr. Smirnov's allegations about Ukrainian Burisma payments to Joe Biden were concocted along with Russian intelligence agents,' Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, D-MD, said on Wednesday. 'It appears like the whole thing is not only obviously false and fraudulent but a product of Russian disinformation and propaganda,' Raskin added. Smirnov was arrested last week at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas after arriving in the United States from overseas. He is charged with making a false statement and creating a false record for statements he made to the FBI in 2020. The indictment stated, Smirnov had contact with executives from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma in 2017 after the end of the Obama-Biden Administration and after the then Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016 when Biden had 'no ability to influence U.S. policy and after the Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016.' The indictment alleges Smirnov transformed his routine business contacts with Burisma in 2017 later into bribery allegations against Biden after expressing bias against Biden and his presidential candidacy. In 2020, the indictment alleged Smirnov provided false information about Biden and Hunter after Biden became a presidential candidate. At that time, Smirnov reported two meetings around 2015 and/or 2016. It alleges Smirnov falsely claimed that during the meetings, executives associated with Burisma admitted to him that they hired Hunter to 'protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems.' He also claimed that they had specifically paid $5 million each to Biden and Hunter while Biden was still in office so that Hunter would 'take care of all those issues through his dad,' referring to a criminal investigation being conducted by the then-Ukrainian prosecutor general into Burisma. According to the indictment, the events Smirnov reported in 2020 were a fabrication. When Smirnov was interviewed by the FBI in September 2023, the indictment alleges he repeated some of his false claims, changed his story with other claims, and 'promoted a new false narrative after he said he met with Russian officials.' Hunter Biden was appointed to the board of directors for Burisma Holdings In 2020, Ukrainian authorities said they have intercepted a $6 million bribe attempt at dropping a criminal investigation against the head of the Burisma natural gas company where Joe Biden's son once held a board seat Tuesday's filing detailed that law enforcement officials were aware of Smirnov's 'contact with officials affiliated with Russian intelligence' because Smirnov himself reported on a number those contacts to his FBI handler. 'These contacts are extensive and extremely recent, and Smirnov had the intention of meeting with one of these officials on his upcoming planned overseas travel,' prosecutors said in Tuesday's filing. It also stated that Smirnov's anticipated travel from the U.S. last Friday just days after his arrest was for the purpose of meeting with Russian intelligence officials among others. The filing included details about Smirnov's contact with Russians to his handler. 'Russian Official 1' was disclosed by Smirnov to be the son of a 'former high-ranking Russian government official' and described to have 'ties to a particular Russian intelligence service.' 'Russian Official 2' is described as a 'high-ranking member of a specific Russian foreign intelligence service.' In December 2023, Smirnov told his handler of a recent overseas trip where he met with 'Russian Official 1' where that contact made a claim about a 'Russian Official 4' who reportedly ran an intelligence operation at a 'club' in a particular hotel. 'Smirnov told the FBI Handler that the Russian Intelligence Service intercepted cell phone calls made by guests at the hotel. The Russian Intelligence Service intercepted several calls placed by prominent U.S. persons the Russian government may use as kompromat in the 2024 election, depending on who the candidates will be,' Tuesday's filing said. The charges against Smirnov undercut the Republicans' accusations of bribery and claims Biden was benefitting financial from his son's business dealings in Ukraine Joe Biden on Friday demanded that impeachment proceedings against him be dropped after a key witness was charged with fabricating a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving the president, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company Following Smirnov's arrest, House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., attempted to downplay the indictment saying the informant was only part of a complex money trail involving the Bidens and foreigners they are working to unravel. The president demanded the impeachment proceedings against him be dropped after Smirnov's arrest. The Gulf Clan is considered Colombian's largest cartel with about 6,000 members Leal's unit was in the middle of an operation last Friday in Segovia, Antioquia, when they were met with fire - a bullet struck and shattered Leal's iPhone Colombia army commander Captain Javier Leal survived a gun battle with The Gulf Clan that left four soldiers dead and six others wounded A Colombian soldier survived a gun battle with the country's most powerful cartel thanks to his iPhone case catching a bullet instead of him. Army Special Forces Unit commander, Captain Javier Leal, had his cell phone stored inside a pocket his bulletproof vest when he was shot on Friday. 'Thanks to this cellphone it saved my life,' Leal said in a video released by the military on Saturday. 'God is with me and this is not going to stay like this,' he added. 'We are going to come back stronger.' Sadly, not all his fellow troops were as lucky as four other soldiers were killed in the battle. Colombian Army Special Forces Unit commander, Captain Javier Leal, survived a battle with members of The Gulf Clan that left four troops dead on Friday in Segovia, Antioquia. Leal's life was saved by his iPhone, which he stored in his bulletproof vest pocket Colombian army soldiers Nilson Guzman, Brayan Hoyos, Anner Lerma and Yeison Medina were killed in a battle with The Gulf Clan on Friday Leal's unit was conducting an operation in the Antioquia rural town of Segovia when The Gulf Clan henchmen opened fire. Soldiers Nilson Guzman, Brayan Hoyos, Anner Lerma and Yeison Medina were confirmed dead by the National Army of Colombia. Six others were wounded in the attack. 'Military operations in this region of the country will remain on the offensive, to find those responsible for the cowardly murder of our men and protect the civilian population,' the army said in a statement. A fifth soldier, Diego Gomez, was killed in a separate operation Saturday in a minefield set up by The Gulf Clan. The attack came after local government leaders in the departments of Antioquia and Bolivar called on the administration of President Gustavo Petro to increase military presence to combat the ongoing violence generated by The Gulf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and FARC dissidents over the control of the drug trafficking and illegal mining. Segovia Mayor Edwin Castaneda told Blu Radio at least 800 people have not been able to leave their homes over fears that they may be wounded or killed. 'They have not been able to do their daily work for fear of being caught in the crossfire. So the situation is worrying,' he said. Army Captain Javier Leal revealed the shattered back part of his iPhone that as struck by a bullet fired by one of The Gulf Clan henchmen Captain Javier Leal is visited by Mayor General Helder Giraldo at a military clinic on Saturday Colombia army Mayor General Helder Giraldo speaks with one of the soldiers wounded in the battle with The Gulf Clan that left four troop members dead The soldier deaths also come as peace talks between the government and ELN are on the verge of collapse, according to the guerrilla group, while the government accused them of dragging out the process. The two sides restarted talks in 2022 as part of Petro's bid to reach 'total peace' between the government and various armed groups, whose six-decade conflict has killed at least 450,000 people. The ELN said the government's participation in regional talks with communities in the province of Narino went against its agreement with the ELN to hold a national dialogue with the support of bodies like the United Nations. 'Now this farce, dressed up as regional dialogue, is public, the process enters into open crisis and we are obliged to recall our delegation for consultations,' the ELN said in a statement posted on its website late on Tuesday. The ELN said the peace talks, which are between negotiating cycles, would be 'frozen' until the government adjusts its position. The government has complied with all its commitments, its negotiating team said in its own statement, and is holding conversations with local communities at their request. 'The decisions unilaterally taken by the ELN are their complete responsibility, and they generate unnecessary crisis that prolongs the armed confrontation and the violence that communities suffer, as well as weakening society's confidence in (the rebels') will for peace,' the government delegation said in a statement early on Wednesday. The ELN will respond with force to any break in a recently-extended ceasefire with the government, leader Antonio Garcia told Reuters this week. The group, founded in 1964 by radical Catholic priests, has 5,800 members, including some 3,000 combatants, and agreed after an earlier cycle in the talks to end kidnapping for ransom. A group of high school students in Massachusetts have been accused of holding an online 'slave auction' to bid on their black classmates during black history month. According to local station WGGB, school officials at Southwick Regional High School received a report of a possible racially-charged incident of discrimination against black students. The report included the online 'slave auction' as well as a instance of a derogatory remark being made to a black female student. In response to the reported racist incidents, the local NAACP chapter sent a letter to the school district's leaders, including the principal and superintendent, demanding an investigation into the alleged racial bullying. Southwick Regional High School in Springfield, Massachusetts, where students were accused of running a mock 'slave auction' over Snapchat Bishop Talbert Swan, the president of the Greater Springfield NAACP, issued a statement condemning the reported behavior of the teens. 'In 2024, for that type of behavior to be going on among teenagers lets us know that we have a myriad of problems, one of them being the fact that racism is being passed down from generation to generation,' he said. 'We want them to be concerned about the well-being and the safeguarding of the student instead of their reputation. This is time for course correction, not CYA (cover your a**) behavior,' he said, in reference to school authorities. Earlier this week, the superintendent of Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional Schools, Jennifer Willard, issued a statement saying that the district emailed parents on February 12 to inform them of a 'highly inappropriate and racist conversation on Snapchat that involved students' at the high school. She added that parents had been informed that a notification had begun and police had been notified. The district, she said, closed its investigation on February 16, but would not comment on specific disciplinary measures being taken against the students responsible for the vile behavior due to privacy laws. 'We can assure the community that the District does issue consequences in accordance with our school code of conduct in these types of circumstances,' read the statement. 'As stated in our original email to the community, the District firmly believes that racism and discrimination have no place in our school community.' The District Attorney of Hampden County's Office also commented on the matter, saying: 'On Thursday, February 15th, the Hampden District Attorneys office became aware of an alleged hate-based incident involving juveniles in the town of Southwick. The immediate description and nature of the alleged incident prompted Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni to direct the involvement of members of his office and its Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit. 'Hate-based harassment and violence has no place in our community. We will investigate any such allegations and will prosecute any criminal violations vigorously.' Bishop Talbert Swan, the president of the Greater Springfield NAACP, condemned the incident, saying: 'In 2024, for that type of behavior to be going on among teenagers lets us know that we have a myriad of problems' Southwick is a town in south-western Massachusetts, just north of the Connecticut border. It has fewer than 10,000 residents In 2022, students at the same school were accused of writing racial slurs in one of the men's bathrooms. At the time, according to WGGB, the principal called it one of the most disrespectful acts of hate he had ever witnessed on campus. Bishop Swan noted the especially negative connotation of having racist activities unfold during February. 'The dignity of human beings should take place 12 months out of the year,' he said. 'But we do put a special emphasis on the month of February. To have to deal with young men engaging in this type of racist, disrespectful type of behavior during this time is reprehensible.' The city's slow hiring process and a nationwide scarcity of mental health workers mean many lie empty Mayor London Breed increased the number of SF's homeless shelter beds by 16 percent, adding 350 new spots Almost all of San Francisco's 350 new beds to get mentally ill people off the streets are lying empty as there is not enough staff to monitor them. Officials spent around $30 million to increase the number of spaces available by around 16 percent last year. However, a nationwide shortage of mental health professionals and arduous hiring processes in the city mean that dozens of the beds routinely go empty. 'Is it a real expansion if the beds aren't staffed and you can't use them?' Supervisor Rafael Mandelman asked a San Francisco Chronicle reporter. Plans to increase the number of mental health and addiction treatment beds were unveiled by Mayor London Breed in 2021, in response to the city's homelessness crisis and rampant drug use, which is being fueled by fentanyl addiction. Most of San Francisco's 350 new beds to get mentally ill people off the streets are lying empty as there is not enough staff to monitor them Officials spent around $30 million to increase the number of spaces available by around 16 percent last year San Francisco is in the grip of a homelessness crisis linked to increased drug use and mental health problems in the city While the total number of beds increased by 350, city officials estimate that 15 to 20 percent of its beds went unused because of the staff shortages, the Chronicle noted. Breed's proposal initially detailed capacity for an extra 400 beds, but this was scaled back after 60 were lost due to closures and contract terminations, according to the health department. The plans came after a 2020 review that produced recommendations for improving the flow of patients through the facilities. It identified a need for 31 more beds at 'locked facilities' for people diagnosed with the most serious mental health conditions. Current estimates suggest the city now needs around 95 more beds of that type. As part of her reelection campaign, Breed has supported a new law that expands involuntary commitment of mentally unwell individuals that would see this number rise further. She is also seeking reelection on a mandate of forcing San Francisco welfare recipients with addiction issues to undergo drug screening and enroll in free rehab programs. But, critics say her approach is only driving away potential service users from the beds. Mark Salazar, president of the Mental Health Association of San Francisco, told the SF Chronicle he would support a minimal use of such forced treatments, arguing it's a 'misallocation of resources.' 'The idea that you just build things and people will come is a bit ludicrous,' he said. 'We can't even get treatment and support to folks who are seeking them on a voluntary basis right now.' Plans to increase the number of mental health and addiction treatment beds were unveiled by Mayor London Breed in 2021 The proposal initially detailed capacity for an extra 400 beds, but this was scaled back after 60 were lost due to closures and contract terminations Nationwide shortages of mental health workers combined with San Francisco's glacial hiring process have been blamed for the lack of staff Part of the problem lies with San Francisco's glacial hiring process, which pushed up the number of vacancies during the pandemic. Nationwide shortages also mean that one in three people in the US live in an area with a scarcity of mental health workers, according to healthcare union Kaiser Permanente. Breed has also struggled to get a handle on the homelessness and drug use crippling the city. In 2023, there were 806 overdose deaths, up from 647 deaths in 2022, while almost 8,000 people experiencing homelessness. Rampant crime which saw robberies and auto thefts rise last year compared to the one before has driven out businesses and visitors. Tourism numbers are down by 16 percent over pre-pandemic numbers. There were 26.2 million visitors in 2019, compared with 21.9 million last year. Hotel revenues were 23 percent lower than pre-covid levels in April 2023 and appear to have stagnated, according to hospitality data firm STR. Big companies are also leaving en masse, causing office vacancies to reach a record high of 31 percent in May, enough space for 92,000 workers. SF Mayor London Breed is seeking to get a handle on the crisis by supporting laws that would expand the use of involuntary commitment of mentally unwell individuals One in three people in the US live in an area with a scarcity of mental health workers, according to healthcare union Kaiser Permanente There were there were 806 overdose deaths in San Francisco in 2023, up from 647 deaths in 2022 Salesforce said in April last year was leaving its eponymous 30-story Salesforce East building in downtown, where around 1,000 staff had worked before the pandemic. Leaders estimate the situation will contribute to a budget shortfall of $1.3 billion in five years. The decline in property tax revenue alone could cost nearly $200 million per year, according to a worst-case scenario drawn up by the city's chief accountant. Even upscale areas such as Russian Hill, which is part of the cable car route along Hyde Street, and tourist hotspots like the Golden Gate Bridge have been affected. Both now carry signs warning people to remove their belongings from their cars to avoid break-ins while at the end of the cable car route, at Fisherman's Wharf, homeless people are starting to set up camp on the benches near the station. Meanwhile, Gavin Newsom, California's Democrat governor, has confessed the homelessness crisis in San Francisco and elsewhere in the state is a 'disgrace'. He said California has 'not made progress in the last two decades' but claimed $15.3 billion has been set aside to address the problem. An ex-partner at one of Britain's top law firms has been ordered to pay out around 30m in damages to a Saudi princess - after being sued by her over his management of her investments. Ronald Gibbs, 66, a former partner at Linklaters, claims his life has been ruined as a result of being locked in 'warfare' with Saudi royals. But a judge found Gibbs had misappropriated money after he agreed to set up and manage a $25m investment fund for Princess Deema Bint Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 2011. The money was earmarked for a property purchase in Paris, but when she changed her mind, Gibbs instead sunk her money into assets he controlled all over the world, including shares in a boat-building company. Other money was splashed out on a 3.3m euro apartment in Montenegro and a 17m 40-metre superyacht, which he himself sailed. Mr Justice Calver slammed Gibbs' conduct as 'reprehensible' and ordered him to give back the princess' investment and damages. Ronald Gibbs outside London's High Court, where a judge ordered the sale of his 4million home in order to repay funds to Princess Deema of Saudi Arabia The judge previously ordered Gibbs to sell this 4million house (pictured) in Richmond on Thames in an effort to claw back some of the princess's lost millions Mr Gibbs insisted he was 'living hand to mouth' due to the freezing order imposed on him in 2021 but Mr Justice Calver told him he had 'done everything he could' to avoid paying the money he owed The court heard how princess and her brother HRH Prince Khaled Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud complained that he had failed to return the princess's millions after being first asked to do so in 2013. The princess then sued Mr Gibbs and today won her case when Mr Justice Calver ruled in her favour, finding Mr Gibbs liable to pay her back her $25m investment pot, plus compound interest since 2018. He said Mr Gibbs had done 'everything he possibly could' to avoid paying back the money. The exact amount he will have to fork out has not yet been finally calculated by lawyers, but is likely to be around 30m as the judge ruled the princess is entitled to 9% a year in interest on the invested sum. Gibbs had pleaded in court that he was 'ruined' and reduced to facing the princess' team of top lawyers by himself with nothing more than a 'small laptop and a 50 printer The court heard that until 2006 Mr Gibbs was an asset finance lawyer who rose to become a partner at Linklaters, one of the prestigious top five 'magic circle' London commercial legal firms. In 2011, after quitting the firm, he agreed to help the princess invest a $25m investment pot handed to her by her father, former Saudi defence minister Sultan bin Abdulaziz, on his death. The money was invested in a swish apartment at the Regent Hotel in Porto, Montenegro, superyacht company Silver Arrows Marine Limited and a 17m customised 40-metre Sunseeker 131 superyacht, named Elysium after the abode of the blessed dead, a fictional realm from Greek mythology. The company, whose past projects have included collaborating with Mercedes Benz on a unique yacht based on the lines of one of their cars, is controlled by experienced yachtsman Mr Gibbs, who has also taken the helm of Elysium. Simon Atrill KC, for the princess, said Mr Gibbs had in 2018 signed an agreement that he would liquidate the investment portfolio by selling the assets, but failed to do so. After summary judgment was entered against him for breach of that agreement in April last year, he was ordered to pay about 2m in interim damages to the princess. He did not pay and in December, ahead of last month's trial, a judge ordered that a five-bedroom house Mr Gibbs owned in King's Road, Richmond-upon-Thames - valued online at around 4m - must be sold and the proceeds used to pay off the princess. The former Linklaters partner sank the money into shares in a boat-building company he controlled, a 3.3million apartment in Montenegro and a 17million 40-metre superyacht, (pictured) which he himself sailed, the High Court heard Money was also invested in a swish apartment at the Regent Hotel in Porto, Montenegro As the full High Court trial began last month, the princess' barrister said she had sued for return of her original investment, as well as gains her financial advisors could have made with it since 2018. 'She seeks the long-awaited return of her money that was transferred to the defendant, a former Linklaters partner in 2011 - plus further compensation reflecting the loss of use of that money,' Mr Atrill said. 'He has never paid a penny of what he owes, all while spending millions on his superyacht and yacht-building business, maintaining his multi-national property empire, and making significant sales of assets, generating millions of pounds that he directed elsewhere than to the claimant.' 'This should be a straightforward case,' he added. 'Mr Gibbs' failure to sell the assets or return the funds is, among other things, a straightforward breach of the settlement agreement.' Mr Gibbs was debarred from defending the claim because of non-disclosure of evidence and failure to pay the sums ordered in interim damages, but had earlier put forward arguments which could amount to a defence, Mr Atrill said. He had claimed the settlement agreement allowed him to 'continue to manage the portfolio' and liquidate it over time and that he had 'no liability' to ensure the princess gets back at least her original investment And representing himself in court, the former high-flyer claimed he had been left financially ruined by three years of legal wrangling and reduced to facing the princess' team of top lawyers by himself - and with nothing more than a 'small laptop and a 50 printer.' 'You can't get blood out of a stone. There is no point asking me to pay funds I don't have,' he said. 'If I didn't have an old age pension, I would have struggled to pay the Tube fare today. 'My small laptop is basically all I have.' Giving judgment today, Mr Justice Calver said the 'very purpose of the agreement' was to 'liquidate the assets that Mr Gibbs represented that he held for the claimant in order to return her investment of US$25 million.' 'The terms of the settlement agreement are clear. 'Once he received the letter signed by the claimant instructing him to liquidate the assets in the investment portfolio, which he received on 25 April 2018, Mr. Gibbs was obliged to liquidate those assets as soon as reasonably possible, seeking to realise liquidation proceeds of US$25 million, but avoiding penalties and fire sale situations. 'The net liquidation proceeds were to be paid into the claimant's specified bank account. 'Mr Gibbs is accordingly in breach of contract in respect of his failure to liquidate each of the assets referred...which could have been, but were not, liquidated by him on the stated dates,' he said. He concluded: 'Mr Gibbs has done everything he possibly could to avoid returning these funds to the claimant and his behaviour has been reprehensible.' He said the princess is entitled to nine per cent compound interest a year on the sum since 2018. A car ended up sandwiched between two other vehicles in the parking lot of a Massachusetts shopping plaza after the driver mistakenly pressed the gas instead of the brake. The unusual crash took place on Monday morning after a red Audi sedan collided and became wedged between a BMW X5 and a Chevrolet Equinox near the Roche Bros grocery store in Wellesley. Photos and videos shared by the Wellesley Police Department depict the aftermath of the startling scene. Preliminary investigations showed the Audi driver accidentally accelerated instead of braking while parking the car, resulting in the collision. The driver was briefly trapped in the car and sustained minor injuries. Emergency teams transported them to Newton Wellesley Hospital for further evaluation. A car ended up sandwiched between two other vehicles in the parking lot of a Massachusetts shopping plaza after the driver mistakenly pressed the gas instead of the brake A red Audi sedan collided with and became wedged between a BMW X5 and a Chevrolet Equinox near the Roche Bros grocery store in Wellesley Fortunately, the red car did not hit people walking through the parking lot and no one was inside the parked vehicles during the crash The red Audi reportedly accelerated over a parking media strip and became airborne, according to Boston.com. It then landed on one vehicle before falling down between the two parked SUVs, authorities said, Fortunately, the red car did not hit any people walking through the parking lot and no one was inside the parked vehicles during the crash. The BMW X5 sustained severe damage with visible dents, cracks, and shattered glass on the windshield, as shown in photos shared by the police. The force of the impact also led to significant crumpling and buckling of its hood. The Wellesley Fire Department's emergency teams eventually extricated the driver from the red Audi. Tow trucks were deployed, as shown in footage shared by law enforcement, removing the damaged cars from the scene. Video from the unusual crash at 184 Linden Street today. One person had minor injuries. Crash is under investigation. pic.twitter.com/NT8NfGZFpg Wellesley Police (@WellesleyPolice) February 19, 2024 The BMW X5 sustained severe damage with visible dents, cracks, and shattered glass on the windshield, as shown in photos shared by the police Tow trucks were deployed, as shown in footage shared by law enforcement, removing the damaged cars from the scene Social media users said the parking lot has been very busy, with small parking spaces facing many different directions The crash has sparked extensive discussions on social media, with neighbors voicing concerns about the parking lot's safety. The parking lot has been consistently busy, featuring compact parking spaces facing different directions, according to social media users. One user wrote: 'I cant stand that parking lot!! A friend measured the spaces, and they are significantly smaller than other lots. Trying to cram too many cars into that space.' Another person chime in, saying: 'Roche Bros needs to redesign that parking lot. Look at all the kids who go there especially on the Wednesday half days someone is going to get hit by a car and get injured or worse.' Some people shared their terrifying experiences at the parking lot, with one saying: 'I got hit by a car riding my bike in that lot when I was 14 not my fault! The lady was trying to avoid someone coming out of a parking space.' Donald Trump is poised to heavily defeat remaining competitor Nikki Haley in South Carolina's primary on Saturday, according to the latest polling. In nearly two to one odds, Trump, 77, is ahead of former United Nations Amb. Haley, 52, in her home state, which holds the fourth and final early contest of the Republican primary after Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. The results come after Haley's state of the race speech on Tuesday where she insisted she is 'far from' dropping out and will remain in the race until Super Tuesday on March 5 despite calls for her to end her bid for the White House. Trump said during a Fox News town hall in Greenville, South Carolina on Tuesday evening that Haley 'can't get herself to get out' of the race. 'I don't think she knows how to get out, actually,' he added. Among likely Republican voters polled by Suffolk University/USA Today, 63 percent say they will cast their primary election ballot for Trump on Saturday, February 24. The latest polling from South Carolina puts Donald Trump 30% ahead of Nikki Haley just days before the primary election Haley blasted Trump during her campaign speech in Greenville ahead of the South Carolina primary on Saturday Thirty-five percent say they are voting for Haley, who was governor of South Carolina from January 2011 until January 2017, when she joined Trump's administration. Surprisingly, Trump is still leading Haley among military families in the Palmetto State at a slightly larger margin than the overall standing with 65 percent for him and 33 percent for Haley. This comes despite Trump mocking earlier this month his competitor's husband, Major Michael Haley, who is on a year-long deployment in the Horn of Africa with the Army National Guard. 'What happened to her husband? Where is he?' Trump asked at a rally in Conway, South Carolina. 'He's gone.' Haley has responded several times since then claiming Trump is taking a swipe at all members of the military with his latest jab. Notably, former first lady Melania Trump has been absent from the campaign trail and has not appeared at one campaign event with her husband since he announced his 2024 bid. The latest polling from Suffolk/USA Today is in line with the average tracking of surveys in the South Carolina primary election from FiveThirtyEight, which has Trump at 63.5 percent and Haley at 33.5 percent. Haley still does hold a wider lead among voters in South Carolina that identify as liberal or moderate with a 59 percent to 38 percent preference over the former president. She is also narrowly leading Trump in the category of those who are voting in the Republican primary for the first time by a 51 percent to 49 percent margin. Donald Trump said at a Fox News town hall in South Carolina on Tuesday that Haley is still in the 2024 race because she 'doesn't know how to get out' One of Haley's biggest arguments against Trump's presidency is his age. She has repeatedly said both Trump and President Joe Biden, 81, are at risk of dementia and should be required to take cognitive tests to see if they are still mentally fit for office. 'I think if you ask any doctor, they will tell you that when you are getting in your 80s, you are prone to having that [dementia],' Haley told NewsNation in a Tuesday evening interview when asked about the mental state of Biden and Trump at their advanced ages. 'Look, there's a reason pilots can't fly after 65. There's a reason military they make you retire before 65,' the former United Nations Ambassador added. 'We have serious issues.' 'None of that is normal behavior from either one of them,' she said in reference to Biden allowing open borders and focusing on gender pronouns in schools and Trump 'mocking military members' by questioning the whereabouts of her deployed husband. 'What I'm saying is Americans are saying in polls 70 percent that they want normal again, they don't want chaos. They don't want this mess,' she added. The issue of age comes amid rising concerns specifically over Biden's fitness for office after a DOJ report released this month labels the president as an 'elderly man' with a 'poor memory' and 'diminished faculties.' He is suspected of killing his wife, Ana Walshe, who was last seen on January 1, 2023 and his murder case is still pending Brian Walshe, 47, was sentenced to 37 months for selling the counterfeit artwork for $80,000 in 2016 An art swindler accused of murdering his wife was sentenced on Tuesday for selling fake Andy Warhol paintings A Massachusetts man accused of murdering his wife has been sentenced for selling fake Andy Warhol paintings. Brian Walshe, 47, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for selling two fake Andy Warhol paintings for $80,000. In court on Tuesday, Walshe was given the over-three-year sentence and ordered to pay $475,000 in restitution. The charges came about after a buyer found Walshe's advertisement for two paintings from Andy Warhol's famous 'Shadows' series and purchased them from the crook in 2016. However, after paying Walshe a staggering amount for the artwork, the buyer realized there were no Warhol Foundation authentication stamps on the paintings, as the seller promised there would be. Brian Walshe, 47, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for selling two fake Andy Warhol paintings for $80,000 Walshe was initially indicted in 2018, before pleading guilty to wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraud, possession of converted goods, and unlawful monetary transaction in 2021. The art swindler is accused of killing his wife Ana, before dismembering and disposing her body. He is also accused of misleading a police investigation The buyer also noticed that the paintings looked very different than how they were advertised on eBay, prompting them to realize the art was probably fake. The art swindler is accused of killing Ana, who was last seen January 1, 2023, at their Cohasset home, before dismembering and disposing her body. He is also accused of misleading a police investigation in connection with the death of his wife. Walshe was initially indicted in 2018, before pleading guilty to wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraud, possession of converted goods, and unlawful monetary transaction in 2021. Walshe's murder case is still pending and he is expected back in Norfolk Superior Court on March 4. 'These crimes were dangerous, bold, and harmful, both to the victims and the public as a whole,' prosecutors said in court filings. 'A sentence of imprisonment is necessary to punish the defendant for his crimes and to deter others from engaging in art fraud, an especially difficult crime to detect, investigate and prosecute.' Walshe's attorney, Tracy A. Miner, argued that Walshe should be sentenced to time served, due to a brief time he spent in prison when the case was initially filed. Ron Rivlin, the owner of Revolver Gallery in Los Angeles - was the buyer who found Walshe selling two Andy Warhol paintings for $100,000 each in November, 2016. On the listing, Walshe also included a photo of an invoice from the Warhol Foundation, where he claimed he bought the paintings, and which allegedly showed he paid $240,000 for them. Walshe got the paintings from his friend, who had recently bought them, and convinced him that he could sell them for a good price - but then he disappeared and his friend never received any money in return for them. Pictured: One of the fake Warhol paintings Pictured: Brian Walshe leaves court after being charged with the murder of his wife, Ana Ana and Brian at the start of their romance, left, when he showered her with designer bags and cars. She is shown, right, more recently. Ana had grown to become independent, working in Washington, DC, away from her family Walshe allegedly told Rivlin he was selling the works at a great loss in order to pay for home renovations. Rivlin believed they were authentic and contacted Walshe in early November, arranging to purchase both paintings outside of eBay for $80,000. The pair signed a contract, which explicitly stated that Rivlin had three days to get a full refund, according to the Massachusetts DA's office. On November 7, Rivlin's assistant flew to Boston to collect the paintings and gave Walshe an $80,000 cashier's check, which was deposited that day. The next day, Rivlin unwrapped the paintings and found there were no authentication stamps on the back from the Warhol Foundation and that the canvasses looked new. Next, he compared the paintings to the photographs on eBay and determined they were different. After concluding the paintings in his possession were inauthentic, he made repeated attempts to contact Walshe. The Herald reported that phone records show Rivlin called and texted Walshe from November 8 to 12, all of which went unanswered. According to the DA's office, when Walshe did reply, he made several excuses for not refunding the money immediately. After Walshe refunded Rivlin just $30,000 of the $80,000, the gallery owner said he had he had contacted the FBI, according to the Herald. Ana, 39, had been enjoying her life as a busy working mother, splitting her time between Cohasset, Massachusetts, and Washington DC, where she worked for a real estate firm Ana and Brian are shown on their wedding day in 2015. They met while she was working in a hotel Prosecutors say Walshe got hold of the paintings while visiting his friend in South Korea and convinced the man he could sell several pieces of art, including the works by Warhol, for a good price. The victim agreed but then Walshe disappeared and the friend was unable to contact him. Eventually, a mutual friend retrieved some of the art. Walshe is accused of murdering Ana in the basement of their home in Cohasset, Massachusetts, on January 1 in the early hours of the morning, then discarding her body in a dumpster. Walshe appeared in Norfolk County Superior Court in January 2023 where he pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, misleading police, obstruction of justice and improper conveyance of a human body. Walshe's extensive Google searches about divorce, murder, dismemberment and decomposing bodies were revealed in court. He uttered just two words his 14-minute court appearance, saying I do when asked by Judge Mark Coven if he understood the charges against him. Ana's remains have not been found, however, investigators revealed that they found a 'small bone fragment' on the hacksaw that Brian had allegedly dumped near Ana's mother's home in Swampscott, Massachusetts. Senate Republicans are pressuring Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and demanding he break with Democrats over the impeachment of Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas. The new internal heat came in the form of a letter to the longest-serving GOP leader on his 82nd birthday, on a day former President Donald Trump said in a TV interview he doubted he could work with McConnell. A group of Senate conservatives already broke with McConnell and renewed calls to try to remove him from leadership after he reached an immigration deal with Majority Leader Charles Schumer backed by President Biden. Trump has long clashed with McConnell, and the two men haven't spoken since a pro-Trump mob ransacked the Capitol on January 6 and McConnell said Trump was responsible. The former president told a Fox News town hall Tuesday night that he probably couldn't work with McConnell if he regained the White House. 'Hell probably end up endorsing me. I dont know that I can work with him,' Trump said at the 'Ingraham Angle' town hall. 'He gave away trillions of dollars that he didnt have to, trillions of dollars. He made it very easy for the Democrats,' Trump said. A group of Senate Republicans are demanding Minority Leader Mitch McConnell 'fully engage' to ensure an impeachment trial in the Senate for HHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas He was speaking of the $118 billion package to beef up border protection while aiding Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. 'This Bill is a great gift to the Democrats, and a Death Wish for The Republican Party,' Trump posted before House Republicans tanked the bill and House Speaker Mike Johnson said he wouldn't bring it up. Now a group of members of his Republican conference are pressuring McConnell over the impeachment of Mayorkas, after House leaders managed to push it through the chamber on a narrow 214-213 vote. They have gone to the Senate parliamentarian about forcing a full Senate trial, after indications Schumer might try to quickly dispense with the impeachment, ridiculed by Democrats for lacking evidence of a 'high crime and misdemeanor,' on a simple tabling motion, which would deal with it by a simple majority vote. 'I dont know that I can work with him,' former President Donald Trump said of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who said he was responsible for January 6 The internal pressure comes amid record border crossings at the southern border In a Feb. 20th letter to McConnell, 13 Republicans including Utah Sen. Mike Lee and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, wrote: 'It is imperative that the Senate Republican conference prepare to fully engage our Constitutional duty and hold a trial.' 'According to multiple briefings by your staff, Majority Leader Schumer and Senate Democrats intend to dispense with the articles of impeachment by simply tabling both individually,' the letter continues. 'We call on you to join us in our efforts to jettison this approach by Democrats to shirk their Constitutional duty, ensure that the Senate conducts a proper trial, and that every Senator, Republican and Democrat, adjudicates this matter when the Senate returns,' the Republicans wrote. Republicans are also seeking to prod Vice President Kamala Harris into presiding over an impeachment trial, which might give it more of an air of importance. Schumer has said the longest-serving Democrat, Patty Murray of Washington, will preside. Lee has already been hammering McConnell over the combined Ukraine/Israel/border package. 'It is clear that Senate GOP leadership did not begin border negotiations by seeking victory they wanted a sop to throw conservatives so they could pass their real priority, which was Ukraine funding,' he told the Daily Caller. He added: 'The two most effective tools we have moving forward are a GOP House majority that will actually fight for our priorities, and a very angry electorate who are tired of being thrown under the bus by their supposedly Republican elected officials.' Donald Trump Jr. retweeted the story, adding: 'Mitch McConnell is working with Biden & the Democrats to jam Ukraine funding down our throats, while our own boarder stays wide open.' Mayorkas is the first sitting cabinet secretary to be charged by the full house in a successful impeachment vote. Many House Republicans blame him for failing to gain control of the border amid a record influx, although he has not been accused of corruption or malfeasance. Representative Mark Green, the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee who oversaw his impeachment, announced last week he is retiring from Congress. Republicans have blasted the effort accusing the administration of a bailout on the backs of other taxpayers Republicans are pushing back on Joe Biden's effort to cancel student loan debt after the White House announced it has wiped out a grand total of nearly $138 billion since he took office. The Biden administration's aggressive effort to chip away at the more than $1.7 trillion in Americans' student loan debt comes despite the Supreme Court blocking President Biden's initial $400 billion plan. On Wednesday, the White House announced more than 150,000 borrowers are being informed their debt totaling $1.2 billion is being forgiven in the first round of debt cancelation under the administration's new SAVE program. GOP lawmakers claim the administration's ongoing effort is putting a massive burden on taxpayers, is unfair to the millions of Americans who didn't go to college and is an overreach of Biden's authority. 'UPDATE: Biden will send a second email to taxpayers and others who didnt take out loans or worked hard to pay them back: Screw You!' responded Senator Eric Schmitt, R-MO, in a post on X. Congressman and Senate candidate Matt Rosendale, R-MT, wrote 'Biden's student loan redistribution scheme will use another $1.2 billion of YOUR tax dollars to "cancel" student loan debt for over 150,000 borrowers. This is a slap in the face to responsible Americans who know when you take out a loan, YOU PAY IT BACK!' Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA, fired off on X 'Taxpayers shouldnt have to foot the bill for a billion dollar student loan bailout. Biden must end his socialist schemes and focus on helping families and students understand the true cost of college!' 'There is no such thing as student loan "forgiveness,"' Senator Tom Cotton, R-AR, fumed online. 'President Biden is simply transferring the debt to make you and your kids pay back student loans that you never took out.' Republican lawmakers and Biden critics have slammed the administration effort to cancel student loan debt Multiple GOP lawmakers have slammed the Biden administration's effort to cancel student loan debt saying taxpayers should not have to foot the bill Wednesday's announcement from the White House marks the first group of borrowers to be approved for student loan relief under the income-driven Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan's shortened repayment period. The Penn Wharton Budget Model estimated last year the SAVE plan would cost $475 billion over 10 years. When asked where the money would come from with the first $1.2 billion round of forgiveness, senior administration officials argued the Education Department has the authority to administer student loan programs and does not need additional appropriations or an act of Congress like other programs do. The Biden administration launched the SAVE plan after the Supreme Court last year blocked the president's original $400 billion student loan cancellation plan in June. It is one of several alternative efforts the administration is working on to cancel student loan debt. But critics have raised concerns the efforts have not solved the underlaying issue of skyrocketing college expenses. The cost of a college education has nearly tripled since 1980. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona standing alongside President Biden at the White House after the Supreme Court blocked the president's original $400 billion plan to cancel student loan debt Protesters gathered outside the Supreme Court as the court blocked President Biden's previous student loan relief plan last June The SAVE plan is an income driven repayment plan for borrowers who have been making payments for at least ten years and had originally taken out $12,000 or less for college. For every $1,000 borrowed above that, borrowers can receive forgiveness after an additional year of payments. All borrowers under the SAVE plan receive forgiveness after 20 or 25 years depending on whether they have loans for graduate school. House Republicans attempted to block implementation of the program last year with the passage of a resolution, but the effort did not have the support in the Democrat-controlled Senate. To date, more than 7.5 million borrowers have now enrolled in the SAVE plan, with more than 4.3 million having $0 in monthly payments. The Biden administration has touted it as the most affordable income driven repayment plan in history. Borrowers who have been approved for relief will begin receiving emails from Biden on Wednesday informing them and letting them know they do not need to take any further action. This is truly a lifeline for borrowers, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said of the latest round of student loan debt forgiveness. The people getting the debt relief announced today have sacrificed and saved for a decade or more to make their student loan payments. Democrats and advocates have hailed the announcement as relief for Americans struggling under the burden of repaying student loans. 'Low-balance borrowers are finally getting the relief they deserve. Student debt cancellation results in freedom from a financial burden that has weighed thousands of borrowers down,' said Natalia Abrams, President of the Student Debt Crisis Center. 'This is more proof that student debt cancellation is the path forward to achieve an affordable higher education system in this country again.' The Biden administration has been working on several approaches to cancel student loan debt after the Supreme Court blocked the previous plan including launching the SAVE plan and going through the rulemaking process For those who have been approved, borrowers will see it reflected in their accounts as student loan servicers begin to process the debt cancellation in the coming days. Moving forward, the Education Department will continue to identify and cancel student loan debt under the plan on a regular basis. Starting next week, the department will also start emailing borrowers who can become eligible for forgiveness if they switch into the SAVE program. Other steps the White House has taken to cancel student loan debt include changes to the public service loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment programs. They have also canceled debt for more than a million borrowers found to have been defrauded by their schools and for more than half a million borrowers with permanent disabilities. Couture was driving 20 mph above the speed limit in an unregistered truck a suspended license while high on un-prescribed drugs at the time of the crash A Vermont father sobbed in court as a judge sentenced him to at least three years in prison for killing his two daughters in a horror car crash while high. Jordan Couture, 39, pleaded guilty to several charges, including negligent homicide, for the crash that killed his daughters Kelsey, 7, and Kyriana, 10. Couture was driving 20 mph above the speed limit on the I-93 in Littlejohn, New Hampshire, when his truck rolled over in December 2021. Neither of his daughters were wearing seatbelts, and were thrown from the vehicle. They died at the scene. Un-prescribed drugs were found in Couture's system, his license was suspended at the time and his truck wasn't registered. 'Our girls wouldn't have wanted this,' Jessica Gokey Couture, Couture's wife and mother to his children told the court on Tuesday. 'Jordan has been through enough with this accident,' she said through tears. Jordan Couture, 39, pleaded guilty to several charges, including negligent homicide, in connection with the crash that killed his daughters Couture was driving 20 mph above the speed limit on the I-93 in Littlejohn when his truck rolled over in 2021 Kyriana, 10, (left) and Kelsey, 7, (right) were not wearing seatbelts and were thrown from the vehicle 'Our girls loved him to pieces. He was an amazing father. I don't care what his record has to say.' 'Mr. Couture loved his daughters with every fiber of his being, and he has to live with that day for the rest of his life,' defense attorney Elroy Sequeira said. Judge Lawrence MacLeod said he was concerned about Couture's prior driving record in Vermont and accepted the guilty pleas. 'You were tempting fate. That's what your record tells me. And, sadly, that came to fruition,' MacLeod said. 'My heart goes out to you folks. This process is not going to heal your wounds, sadly. But I will accept your pleas.' Couture was sentenced to three to seven years in prison with another three to seven years suspended. Couture sobbed in court as Judge Lawrence MacLeod sentenced him to at least three years in prison 'Our girls wouldn't have wanted this,' Jessica Gokey Couture, Couture's wife and mother to his children told the court on Tuesday A GoFundMe page set up to cover the two girls' funeral expenses at the time raised more than $40,000. The girls were on their way home from a meet-and-greet with actress Piper Rockell when the crash happened, according to the page. 'Kyriana enjoyed dancing, singing, and instigating their brother Jacobi and her teenage sister Alexis' Richard Firth, their grandfather wrote. 'Alexis appreciated Kyrianas make-up tips and consistent sassiness. 'Kyriana had a heart of gold and loved her family (including all of her grandparents). Adding: 'Kelsey enjoyed dancing with her big sister, riding her bike, and spending time with her siblings and especially her Nana.' A Metropolitan Police officer and serial rapist who once told one of his victim's they'd 'met the devil' while he kidnapped her has been convicted of 13 counts of rape - six years after an investigation into previous attacks on a young girl were discontinued. Cliff Mitchell, 24, approached one of his victims with a knife in September 2023 and told her to put her arms behind her back, before tying her up with cable ties and putting tape over her mouth. He was found guilty of 10 counts of rape, three counts of rape of a child under 13, one count of kidnap and breach of a non-molestation order following a trial at Croydon Crown Court. One of Mitchell's victims said he forced her and another person to get into his car and only managed to escape by saying she had to get out of the vehicle because she felt sick. She was later seen running through traffic by members of the public before a passer-by noticed what was going on and managed to get her in her vehicle, his trial was told. Mitchell, of Wandsworth, was a serving officer at the time and was later dismissed from the Met in December 2023 following an accelerated misconduct hearing. Serial rapist Cliff Mitchell, 24, told one of his victims he was 'the devil' In a 999 call played to the court, the distressed woman told the operator 'he's kidnapped me' and 'he's behind us' as she travelled in the car of the passer-by who had offered help. A search of an address linked to Mitchell following his arrest found a bag containing cable ties, similar to those used to bind the victims wrists. Mitchell had previously been subject to a rape investigation in 2017, which had resulted in no further action. Following his arrest, the case was re-investigated and a file was passed to the CPS. As a result he was charged with six further counts of rape of a girl relating to a second victim, between 2014 and 2017. The child was assaulted on at least 30 other occasions. He was a PC in the Met's West Area Basic Command Unit and was serving in Hounslow when a number of the offences were committed, the Met said. The monstrous Met Police officer was today convicted of 13 counts of rape He was suspended from the force after the allegations came to light and has since been dismissed. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy described Mitchell's actions as 'deplorable'. He continued: 'This is a truly shocking case and I am sickened by Mitchell's abhorrent behaviour and the pain he has caused the victims, who have shown enormous bravery by coming forward and giving evidence in court. 'It is down to their courage that he has been convicted and faces a significant custodial sentence. 'I would also like to recognise the brave member of the public who came to the aid of one of the victims as she ran from Mitchell's car. 'Mitchell not only carried out a sustained campaign of abuse against both of his victims, but he told one of them she would never be believed due to the fact he was a police officer. 'This brazen abuse of power makes Mitchell's actions all the more deplorable. 'I know this is another case which will impact the confidence people have in us. 'We are doing more than we have done in decades to rid the Met of those who corrupt our integrity, including investing millions of pounds into our professional standards team and bringing in additional officers and staff with specialist skills and experience to investigate criminality and misconduct. 'Part of that is dismissing officers who should not be here at the earliest opportunity. 'Mitchell was dismissed from the Met in December 2023 - we did not wait for his conviction today.' A California vending operator says soaring crime has left it 'impossible' to do business in the Democrat-run state after her machines were repeatedly targeted by a thief with a pickaxe. Lisa Burke has been reduced to tears by the man who has smashed up her machines for just a handful of change and is still on the run. He has caused $75,000 worth of damage so far to the machines on school campuses across Santa Clarita, and Burke fears he will bankrupt the company founded by her father 69 years ago. 'He needs to be caught and prosecuted, but I feel that our DA will slap him on the wrist and let him go!' she wrote on Instagram. 'This is why small business owners and people are leaving the state of California. 'No consequences for this kind of behavior.' Lisa Burke (right) pictured with her mother fears the company founded by her father in 1955 will be driven to bankruptcy by the serial attacks by a thief with a pick-axe The thief escapes only with a handful of small change but has wrecked some machines beyond repair on junior and high school campuses in Santa Clarita Six of her machines have been attacked in the last two weeks alone and some left beyond repair by the mustachioed vandal. Surveillance footage from one incident shows him vigorously swinging his ax before stopping to take a breather and returning to his task. 'As a small business, we cannot afford this,' Burke said. 'Everyday that passes with no sales, makes it that much harder for us to get the machines repaired or replaced. 'But even if we do, will he come back? 'Probably. Two schools again last night and one last weekend. Not to mention every week since Christmas.' LA County DA George Gascon faces re-election on March 5 Santa Clarita has been at the sharp end of a crime-wave that saw recorded property crimes jump three percent to nearly 61,000 across LA County last year. The rise was more than 10 percent in Santa Clarita with burglary up 19 percent and robbery up 28 percent. LA County DA George Gascon faces a tough re-election battle on March 5 as he defends Proposition 47, the notorious state senate bill he authored that slashed the number of crimes on the statute book. And the Democrat was slammed in December when he appointed a former looter as his chief of staff. Tiffiny Blacknell admitted in a 2020 Facebook post to being a part of LA's notorious 1992 Rodney King riots against police brutality, writing: 'I was a looter in 1992.' 'When the opportunity arose, we took some sh*t. It was one of the most formative moments of my life,' Blacknell confessed. The former public defender, regularly speaks of her support of defunding the police - referring to LAPD officers as 'barbarians' and claiming they are an 'occupying army'. Burke also accused state governor Gavin Newsom of ignoring crime and said California 'needs to fix this problem'. Her tormentor began his attacks two days before Christmas and has targeted campuses since then when the schools are closed. 'We're guessing that maybe he's jumping the fence, but it's hard to tell where he's coming from,' she said. 'This is beyond frustrating and maddening. 'He has cost us over $75,000 between equipment, repairs, parts, stolen money and loss of sales. 'Our governor doesn't do anything to help small businesses that are continually getting vandalized and stolen from.' 'He has cost us over $75,000 between equipment, repairs, parts, stolen money and loss of sales,' Burke said, 'This is beyond frustrating and maddening' Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department are investigating the thefts but have yet to identify any suspects. 'At the end of the day, it's not just that it's a vending machine, it's the fact that this has almost become the norm,' Burke said. 'We've been in business, my dad started it in 1955 and we've never experienced something like this in all of our years there, especially in Santa Clarita. 'I want to cry because this is not okay.' King Charles has been pictured leaving Clarence House as he continues his treatment for cancer - after Palace aides said there was 'zero chance' Prince Harry can return as a working royal. The 75-year-old monarch has been staying at his Sandringham Estate in Norfolk since his shock cancer diagnosis was announced but he was back in London today. Charles has postponed all public duties while he undergoes treatment for an unspecified cancer, found by doctors while he was being treated for his benign enlarged prostate. After his diagnosis was revealed on February 6, Prince Harry made a transatlantic dash from California to London to be at his father's side - but they only met for around 30 minutes at Clarence House before the King returned to Sandringham. Speculation ran rife earlier this month after The Times claimed the Duke of Sussex was willing to return to a 'temporary royal role' to support his father during his illness. But claims that Prince Harry could return to the royal fold were dismissed last week. Sources say His Majesty is 'firmly of the opinion' there is no way back for the Duke of Sussex as a working royal 'in any way, shape or form'. King Charles has been pictured leaving Clarence House as he continues his treatment for cancer The 75-year-old monarch has been going back and forth from his Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and his residence in London since his diagnosis Insiders stress this does not mean Charles isn't open to repairing his relationship with his estranged younger son in the future. But this is seen as very different from Harry being invited to support the King professionally during his cancer battle. Prince William is also understood to share this opinion although Kensington Palace has made it clear that his focus is on returning to work after taking a break to care for his wife following her operation last month. Harry has been encouraged by 'warm exchanges' between himself and the King since his father's cancer diagnosis was revealed earlier this month, The Times had suggested. The prince had told friends he would be happy to 'step into a royal role while his father is unwell', it was said. A 'royal insider' said 'on all practical levels it makes perfect sense for the family to come together to support the King while he's sick', adding: 'The feeling is that this arrangement could work.' But well-placed sources have dismissed this completely, saying it is erroneous to suggest any discussions about the issue have taken place, even at a casual level. Sources say Charles, the Prince of Wales and the rest of the royal family are in 'solid agreement' that the terms of the so-called 'Sandringham Summit' stand. During this meeting, in January 2020, the late Queen made it clear her grandson's desired 'half-in, half-out' approach was unworkable. King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend a church service at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham on Sunday Queen Camilla attends the Sunday service at the Church of St Mary Magdalene Claims that Prince Harry could return to royal duties were dismissed as the King made a public appearance at church yesterday Speculation ran rife over the weekend after The Times claimed the Duke of Sussex is willing to return to a 'temporary royal role' to support his father during his illness She insisted Harry must give up his royal affiliations and undertake not to trade on his royal connections if he insisted on pursuing business deals abroad. A source said: 'The terms of the accord were very clear and nothing that has happened recently, including the King's illness, has changed that.' Another source added: 'Have the King and Harry been speaking? Yes. Does this mean a return to the fold even on a temporary basis? No.' Aside from a small number of investitures, the King does not plan to offload a great number of duties on other family members while he undergoes treatment, another source said. If he does need his family to step in, any extra duties can easily be covered by William. His Majesty looked in good spirits as he went to church on the Sandringham Estate with Queen Camilla, waving to well-wishers on Sunday. He has spent the last few weeks at his Norfolk estate, returning to London briefly during the week for medical treatment and meetings. Over the weekend, it was also claimed that royal aides 'blocked' Harry from joining the King at Sandringham when he made a 25-hour visit to the UK in early February to see his father. Staff feared 'they'd never get rid of him', the Sun reported, and invited him to a 45-minute meeting at Clarence House instead. But a source pointed out that Harry had an engagement in Las Vegas a day after returning to the US. In an interview with Good Morning America, Harry said he was pleased to have visited the UK to see his father. The prince, who headed to Vancouver, Canada, last week with his wife Meghan for an Invictus Games celebration, said he would return to see him again as he has other trips to the UK planned and did not discount the suggestion that his family rift could be healed by the crisis. Reality star Todd Chrisley has claimed he is facing retaliation from prison guards for speaking out about conditions at the Florida prison where he was remanded for tax evasion. Speaking to NewsNation's Senior National Correspondent Brian Entin on Banfield, the 'Chrisley Know Best' star, 54, said guards would not let him into the chapel to pray at the Federal Prison Camp, Pensacola, where he is serving a 10-year sentence. 'They had sent the priest out of here in the middle of his service. Made him leave,' Chrisley said. 'They have never found any contraband in there.' He further claimed guards were conducting searches after catching word that he would be doing another interview, insisting they were trying to 'intimidate' him. 'I just walked out and said, "It ain't going to chance what I am going to say,"' Chrisley continued. Todd Chrisley, 54, has claimed that he is facing retaliation from guards at Federal Prison Camp, Pensacola, where he is serving a 10-year sentence for tax evasion The reality TV star insisted that he was prevented from entering the prison chapel to pray and that guards were conducting searches for contraband due to his upcoming interview The 54-year-old and his wife, Julie, 50, were both found guilty of committing tax evasion and bank fraud totaling $30 million in June 2022. Julie is serving 14 months in Kentucky The TV personality and wife Julie, 50, were found guilty of committing tax evasion and bank fraud totaling $30 million in June 2022. Chrisley's 12-year sentence was reduced to 10 years, while his wife's seven-year sentence was cut to 14 months. She has been a prisoner Federal Medical Center Lexington in Kentucky since January 2023. The 54-year-old previously spoke to NewsNation in December, when he accused prison guards of 'starving' inmates and serving expired food. He claimed rats and squirrels had been found in the food storage facility, and asserted that a dead cat once fell into food supplies from a mold-riddled ceiling - a statement that a prison source categorically denied. The reality star said he only ate the meals he prepared for himself at the commissary, describing conditions as 'so disgustingly filthy.' He alleged guards were targeting him for his privileged status as a celebrity. 'There are recordings of staff members here talking about "he needs to be humbled,"' Todd said. '"What we need to do is we need to put him in diesel therapy and put him in shackles and let him ride around the country, and then bring him back and that will humble him."' An insider told DailyMail.com that Chrisley's family was concerned for his safety following his decision to speak out 'because he is trying to take on Goliath when he knows nothing about how the system really works.' In a December interview, Chrisley accused prison guards of 'starving' inmates and serving expired food, adding that a dead cat once fell into food supplies from a mold-riddled ceiling The Federal Bureau of Prisons denied Chrisley's claims, insisting that inmates were kept in clean and humane conditions The reality star claimed there were recordings of prison staff talking about how they wanted to 'humble' him due to his status as a celebrity 'Todd is thinking inside of his little box on his little platform - but there are those who have been in his prison their whole lives and have not said anything in fear of what would happen if they did,' the source continued. 'Everyone wishes he didnt do all of this, and they think (daughter Savannah Chrisley) isnt helping either on her part.' The 26-year-old has been an outspoken advocate herself who has publicly echoed her father's claims of retaliation by prison staff. The source continued: 'She is advocating against awful conditions of a federal prison as if she lives there. She only knows what is told to her by Todd.' The Federal Bureau of Prisons responded directly to Chrisley's allegations in a statement. 'It is the mission of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to operate facilities that are safe, secure, and humane,' the statement read. 'We take seriously our duty to protect the individuals entrusted in our custody, as well as maintaining the safety of our employees and the community. Humane treatment of the men and women in our custody is a top priority.' The agency clarified that expired food is 'discarded and not utilized.' The couple's daughter, 26-year-old Savannah, has echoed her father's claims of mistreatment and further asserted that prison staff were planting cellphones and drugs in his cell In an interview, Chrisley said he was not allowed to call his wife 'because of what Savannah is doing' An insider told DailyMail.com that Julie might divorce her husband 'for convincing her to go along with his foolproof plan that landed them in prison' Chrisley said he had not been allowed to call his wife as a result of his daughter's outlandish claims. These included accusations of prison staff planting mobile phones and drugs in his cell. 'It's devastating,' he said. 'You know she and I email four or five times a day, but they will hold my emails and hold them on her end as well as a way of punishment to us because of what Savannah is doing.' A source told DailyMail.com that the couple seemed to be headed for separation. 'Julie's friends are certain that she will eventually divorce Todd for convincing her to go along with his foolproof plan that landed them in prison,' the source said. Last month, the Chrisleys secured a $1 million settlement from the state of Georgia. They were previously cleared of a state tax evasion charge and took action against Joshua Waites, the former the Director of Special Investigations of Georgias Department of Revenue. The couple filed a suit against Waites in October 2019, accusing him of sharing confidential grand jury and tax information with their estranged daughter Lindsie. The lawsuit sought compensatory and punitive damages as well as reimbursement for legal costs. Before reaching the settlement, the couple and their attorneys had insisted for months that the state's case against them was 'highly unusual and had real problems'. A 2021 investigation also found the couple to have been 'unfairly targeted' due to their fame. The woman claims he exploited her during the course of their arrangement A TV doctor who allegedly gave a patient botox treatment in exchange for sex was a 'freeloader' who didn't want to pay for her explicit OnlyFans services, a medical tribunal has heard. Dr Tijion Esho, who has featured on numerous television shows including ITV's This Morning, BBC's Morning Live and E4's Body Fixers, is said to have enjoyed 'free' sex chat with the woman, which she would normally charge clients for. The woman also shared explicit photos and videos of herself, which the 42-year-old would respond to with approving comments. Cosmetic expert Dr Esho - also known as Dr Oluwafemi Esho - has admitted having an 'improper emotional relationship' with the 'sex worker' who offers services online via OnlyFans and webcams. She had visited the doctor about a designer lip procedure, which he provides at his clinics in London, Newcastle and Dubai. Dr Tijion Esho, who has featured on ITV's This Morning, BBC's Morning Live and E4's Body Fixers The tribunal - due to last 15 days - continues at St James Building Oxford Road Manchester The tribunal heard how the woman - known as Patient A - had discussed doing a 'skills swap' with the doctor which involved her providing 'booty' and 't****' in return for 'mls' - a reference to millilitres of filler treatment. However, she claims he exploited her during the course of their doctor-patient relationship and was reluctant to pay for her services. Under cross-examination from Mario Lambis KC, counsel for the doctor, she admitted she had to 'play along' with the situation and 'keep him sweet' because he was helping her. The woman said she 'never envisaged' the consequences of the doctor being a client of hers at the same time she was his patient. But over time it 'felt inappropriate' as he was 'sexually objectifying and exploiting my job with impunity because he knew what he did', she said. In one Instagram video of her in a bikini, Mr Lambis said, she had posted: 'Shaking my booty for Esho piggy bank.' Mr Lambis said the video showed that a skills swap was 'firmly embedded' in her mind by that point. He pointed out that as a 'businesswoman' she could have told the doctor: 'If you want something you have to pay for it.' She responded by saying that there were 'multiple instances' when he had commented about her sex worker content online. 'Given that I was a sex worker and he was engaging with me in that way he seemed to want to become a customer of mine,' she said. But the tribunal heard how she became 'frustrated' after 'enticing' him to sign up to her OnlyFans page by sharing a 'nearly naked' video and pornographic photos of herself. She believed he was a 'freeloader' and had wanted to find out if he 'wanted to be a fan' or was just exploiting her. He had the option to either freeload or 'purchase one of her services', she said. She said that she did sometimes give clients free content for a limited time, but it had continued with Dr Esho 'because he was my doctor'. Dr Esho with Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield on ITV's This Morning in June 2019 While the doctor was 'attracted' to her, she added, she wasn't attracted to him. Nor was she interested in a relationship with him, it was 'just work' for her. Dr Esho allegedly had sex with Patient A at one of his clinics in Newcastle before giving her free botox treatment and then told her he could 'get away' with giving her more in exchange for further sexual services, all charges which he denies. And he denies six of the 10 charges against him in total. But he admits that between July 2019 and February 2022 he behaved inappropriately by exchanging messages with the patient. He also admits having an 'improper emotional relationship' with her between July 2019 and May 2022 and that his conduct in relation to both allegations was 'sexually motivated'. It's alleged that he knew Patient A was 'vulnerable' due to her profession, which he also denies. The tribunal - due to last 15 days - continues. The two-year-old boy still missing after falling into the River Soar has been pictured - as his family called him a 'bundle of joy' and said: 'We just want him to be found.' A search has been ongoing in the area near Aylestone in Leicestershire since Sunday afternoon after the toddler now identified as Xielo Maruziva was reported to have fallen into the water. There was surprise when emergency services initially called off the first night's search four hours after he went missing. The next day police and specialist diving teams appeared to significantly ramp up efforts. Xielo's family today described their son as a 'cheeky, funny' boy who is 'a bundle of joy' and have also thanked members of the community for their ongoing support. His mother said: 'Xielo is a cheeky, funny, friendly, smart, caring and independent little boy. He never fails to make me laugh or smile and always loves a cuddle and some kisses. The boy, two, missing since Sunday in Leicestershire has been named as Xielo Maruziva The search continues after Xielo was reported falling into the water last Sunday at about 5pm The River Soar near Aylestone Meadows in Leicestershire is still being scoured by divers The search is taking place in the River Soar near Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve 'Xielo loves playing with his toys and watching cartoons including Bino and Fino. Timeline of search for little Xielo Maruziva: Sunday 18 February 5pm: Police called to Aylestone Meadows close to Marsden Lane after the toddler fell into the River Soar 5.40pm: Helicopter sighted over the river before being replaced with a drone 6.40pm: Helicopter returns to the area after refueling using lighting to search the water. 10pm: Police call off search for the toddler overnight Monday 19 February Specialist diving teams continue to search the area using night vision googles alongside support from the National Police Air Service It was revealed that the child's father was taken to hospital after entering the river. He has since been discharged Police urge a dog walker seen walking along the footpath near Packhorse Bridge to come forward Tuesday 20 February Police find CCTV of the tragedy revealing the moment the child fell into the river Sniffer dogs were brought in as the search continued for the third day Kent and West Mercia's Search and Rescue Team as well as the Met's Police Marine Recovery dogs join the search The Environment Agency stars mapping to help identify key search areas Wednesday 21 February Police name missing toddler as Xielo Maruziva The search remains underway despite worsening weather conditions Advertisement 'Me, his dad and the whole family are so heartbroken at what has happened. We thank everyone who has supported us and helped us during this time. We are extremely grateful for this. 'All we want is for Xielo to be found as soon as possible. Thank you.' Xielo's father added: 'Xielo is a bundle of joy to us. He is a charming and creative little boy and has just started at nursery. He loves cuddles, playing with his toys and going to the park. 'As a family we have been completely devastated over the past few days as the search for Xielo continues. It is hard to describe the pain and suffering we are going through. 'We would like to thank the search teams at the scene. We would also like to thank members of the public for all of your support. It is your prayers which are keeping us strong. 'We kindly ask that people wait for updates through the authorities in relation to the search as we continue to be overwhelmed with enquiries and messages at this time. 'Thank you all for your ongoing love and support.' Police have raised concerns about rescue efforts being hampered by rising tides, as the Environment Agency issued a flood warning for the Upper Soar catchment area. Police earlier this week revealed how the boy's father had jumped into the river to try to save him, police confirmed today, as officers vowed: 'We will bring him home.' The parent was taken to hospital as a 'precautionary measure' after going into the water to try to save him but was later discharged. Drones, helicopters and specialist divers have been involved in the ongoing search, as well as back-up officers and resources have arrived from other forces including Lincolnshire Police, Nottinghamshire Police and London's Metropolitan Police. Officers have said they wanted to get in touch with a dog walker who was in the area at the time the toddler was swept away. And they yesterday revealed they possessed CCTV of the tragedy and had brought in sniffer dogs to help. The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for the Upper Soar catchment area Sniffer dogs have been added to the operation carried out in and beside the River Soar A police helicopter was sighted searching the river near Braunstone, Leicestershire, at about 5.40pm on Sunday - and it was later replaced by a drone The helicopter returned at 6.40pm after refuelling and was seen lighting up the search area Police and fire crews initially called off their hunt for the child on Sunday at about 9.30pm Extra resources have been sent to the scene near Aylestone and Braunstone this week Kent and West Mercia Police Search and Rescue team and Metropolitan Police Marine Recovery dogs joined the operation. The Environmental Agency has also been providing support with specialist mapping equipment to help identify key search areas. Leicestershire Police's assistant chief constable Michaela Kerr told a press conference that 'recovering that little boy and making sure that the family are well supported' is the force's 'number one priority.' The force is asking members of the public to stay away from the scene due to safety concerns due to rising water levels. A long-standing resident whose home overlooks Aylestone Meadows said flooding from the River Soar in recent weeks had left parts of the nature reserve in a treacherous state. She described recent river conditions as 'quite bad' and very 'fast-flowing'. Xielo's family are understood to be local to the area. Leicestershire Police assistant chief constable Michaela Kerr has insisted she is 'confident' her officers will find Xielo as searches go on Leicestershire Police have said returning the boy to his family was their 'absolute priority' A police diver is seen preparing to re-enter the water on the fourth day of searches Specialist mapping equipment to help identify key search areas is being examined by crews Michaela Kerr said her police force had 'all the specialist resources we would possibly want' Officers have asked for anyone who spoke to them on Sunday to come forward again as they seek to confirm witnesses' identities and contact details. A force spokesperson previously told MailOnline on Monday morning: 'The fire service came away at half past nine last night but police officers remained in the vicinity and were monitoring any information coming in and resources were ready to go out and respond if needed.' Further information regarding the ongoing search can be found here on the Leicestershire Police website. Vice President Kamala Harris quietly met with a group of black leaders in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, as the Biden campaign works nervously to energize the black vote ahead of the 2024 election. The meeting with black leaders took place after Harris delivered a speech on the administration's efforts to replace lead pipes in Pennsylvania communities. Harris met with Pennsylvania's first black lieutenant governor, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, as well as State Rep. Summer Lee and eight black Pennsylvania mayors. The campaign meeting with Harris also included 10 black faith leaders, according to Pittsburgh mayor Ed Gainey, who shared a photo with Harris on X proclaiming 'CommUnity.' Vice President Kamala Harris visits the Kingsley Association in Larimer, Pa Vice President Kamala Harris meets with black leaders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 'I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for coming to Pittsburgh and meeting with Black Mayors and Black Clergy from around Southwest PA,' he wrote on X. The Biden campaign continues scrambling to shore up support from black voters after a New York Times poll in November showed that 22% of black voters in six battleground states said they would support former President Donald Trump. While 71% of black voters said they would back Biden, it was lower than expected as the poll showed that the president was losing support from black men. Exit polls following the 2020 election revealed Biden carried the 87 percent of the black vote. In February, the Biden campaign announced a mass outreach effort to black voters across the country, airing print and radio ads touting the Biden administration's achievements as part of Black History Month. The ads emphasize Biden's commitment to diversity in his administration. 'Black History is American History,' the Biden ad says. '[W]e celebrate Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of Defense Gen. Lloyd Austin, and Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson ... history makers who reflect president Joe Biden's commitment to black America.' Vice President Kamala Harris meets with black leaders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Vice President Kamala Harris meets with black leaders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Biden continues facing tough polling numbers in swing states. A Michigan poll released Wednesday shows Biden trailing Trump in a head-to-head matchup with only 41 percent support to Trump's 45 percent. A pair of Emerson College Polling/The Hill surveys released Wednesday shows Trump leading with 48 percent to Biden's 42 percent in Georgia and leading Biden 47 percent to Biden's 44 percent in South Carolina. The Biden campaign is increasing the number of Harris events as she tries to reassert herself on the campaign trail. In recent weeks, Harris has quietly hosted more listening sessions with alarmed Democrat leaders about the direction of Biden's 2024 reelection campaign. Top Democrat governors criticized Harris and the Biden campaign's messaging on abortion, the handling of the migrant crisis, and their failure to reach young voters. Harris has also hosted prominent black celebrities to the vice president's residence for campaign conversations including comedian D.L. Hughley, film director Spike Lee, rapper Fat Joe, actor Don Cheadle and broadcaster Roland Martin, according to CNN. Vice President Kamala Harris meets with black leaders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Vice President Kamala Harris meets with black leaders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Harris' effectiveness on the trail is also blunted by her low approval ratings, even lower than Biden's. A recent NBC poll shows that Harris only had a 28 percent positive approval rating, while Biden checked in at 36 percent approval. The relationship between Harris and Biden grew awkward in the first three years of their administration as Harris demonstrated she was unwilling to take on tough political issues for the president and Biden's advisors grew less trusting of her political instincts. The campaign has sidelined Harris to areas within her comfort zone, with her rallies focusing on black voters, women concerned about abortion rights, and college-age voters. The Breakfast Club radio show host Charlamagne tha God The Breakfast Club radio show host Charlamagne tha God At the same time, prominent black voices have dismissed Biden as uninspiring and Harris as ineffective in driving black support to the polls. Charlamagne tha God, a co-host of The Breakfast Club radio show said Harris had failed to meet his expectations in her first three years as vice president but that, 'I don't think it's too late for her to pivot.' He said he wanted to see more from Harris, arguing that she was more charismatic than Biden. 'I'd like to see her going on outlets like Fox News. I'd like to see her going in there and mixing it up,' he said. A US-based Ukrainian charity has spoken out after a Russian-American ballerina was charged with high treason in Russia for allegedly donating $51 to their cause. Razom for Ukraines CEO Dora Chomiak told DailyMail.com the charity is appalled by reports of 32-year-old's Ksenia Karelina's arrest by Vladimir Putin's Federal Security Service and called on the Biden administration to work for the Los Angeles resident's release. '[Putin's] regime attacks civil society activists who stand up for freedom and democracy. Razom calls on the U.S. government to continue to do everything in its power to demand that President Putin release all those unjustly detained by Russia and to hold Russias political and military leadership accountable for their unprovoked invasion of Ukraine,' Chomiak said. 'Razom is a U.S.-founded and U.S.-based Section 501(c)(3) public charity that is committed to supporting a prosperous, secure and democratic future for Ukraine.' The dancer was arrested in Yekaterinburg on the same day in January that Putin sat down for his widely panned interview with Tucker Carlson. The initial charges related to swearing offenses. Ksenia Karelina was arrested on the same day in January that Putin sat down for his widely panned interview with Tucker Carlson Razom for Ukraines CEO Dora Chomiak told DailyMail.com the charity is appalled by reports of Karelina's arrest by Vladimir Putin's Federal Security Service Yekaterinburg, the largest city in the Ural region, is also where Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich was arrested on spying charges nearly 12 months ago. Following her initial arrest, Karelina was then accused of fundraising for the Ukrainian military cause - specifically of transferring $51.80 from an American bank account to NYC-based Razom. Treason charges can carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison. Since 2023, 63 people have been charged with treason in Russia, 37 were found guilty. Chomiak added: 'Razom is appalled by reports that a U.S.-Russian dual national has been arrested by Russian authorities for purportedly making a charitable donation to Razom for Ukraine in the immediate aftermath of Russias full scale invasion of Ukraine,' Chomiak said. White House national security spokesman John Kirby has said said the White House and the State Department were aware of reports of the arrest of a dual U.S.-Russia citizen and added that 'we are trying to get more information and to secure some consular access to that individual.' Karelina is accused of fund raising for a pro-Ukrainian organization, she attained US citizenship in 2021 Karelina is a resident of Los Angeles who became a US citizen in 2021 Karelina has been held in jail for seven weeks, interrogated for up to 13 hours and forced to sell her assets in LA, her friend and employer told DailyMail.com. Her close friend and employer, Isabella Koretz, told DailyMail.com that Karelina was arrested as soon as she landed in Moscow on January 2, interrogated for 13 hours and placed in a freezing cold jail cell with two other women Koretz, 47, said Karelina had traveled to the land of her birth to visit her parents, little sister and elderly grandparents. On her Facebook page, Karelina says that she's from Yekaterinburg and that she studied ballet at the S. P. Diaghilev school. The dancer is accused of 'proactively collecting funds since February 2022 in the interests of a Ukrainian organization, which were subsequently used to purchase tactical medicine, equipment, weapons and ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine,' the FSB alleges. Karelina moved to the US after graduating from college in her homeland in 2013 On her Facebook page, Karelina says that she's from Yekaterinburg and that she studied ballet at the S. P. Diaghilev school Karelina was first arrested on charges of 'petty hooliganism,' for swearing 'In addition, the citizen in question repeatedly took part in public actions in support of the Kyiv regime while in the United States,' the agency added, reports The Moscow Times. Russian language outlet Mediazona reports that Karelina has been a US citizen since 2021 and that in 2023 she married an American man. The State Department currently has a Do Not Travel advisory to Russia specifically because of the risk of 'wrongful detentions.' Karelina graduated from Ural Federal University in 2013. Numerous posts on her Facebook page show her in Baltimore, Maryland, beginning in 2014. Mediazona reports that Karelina was first arrested on charges of 'petty hooliganism,' for swearing. While in custody, those charges were upgraded to 'high treason.' The outlet goes on to report that Karelina ceased posting on the Russian social media site VK on November 3, 2021 after posting a series of photos showing her gaining citizenship. On that profile, Karelina said that she studied at the University of Maryland in Baltimore. Razom, the NYC-based Ukrainian charity that she's accused of supporting, describes itself as 'contributing to the establishment of a secure, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine.' On her LinkedIn page, Karelina says that she works as a manager at Ciel Spa Beverly Hills, a role that she's been in since 2019. Annie Leibovitz has sold her swanky Upper West Side home for $10.62 million at a loss after purchasing the duplex in 2014. Leibovitz bought her stunning home at 88 Central Park West for $11.24 million 10 years ago. The 74-year-old portrait photographer put the duplex on the market for just $8.6 million four months ago. The new owners are Kindle creator Gregg E. Zehr and lead Apple lawyer Kim M. Cooper. The married couple snagged the luxury Manhattan apartment for $10.62 million - $2 million over the asking price. The unit is located in the Upper West Side's Brentmore building, known to also house stars such as Robert De Niro, Lorne Michaels, Sting and Paul Simon. Annie Leibovitz has sold her swanky Upper West Side home for $10.62 million at a loss after purchasing the duplex in 2014 Leibovitz bought her stunning home at 88 Central Park West for $11.24 million 10 years ago The Upper West Side apartment stretched over the fifth and sixth floors of the iconic building and the stories were connected with a winding staircase featuring a wooden banister New owners Kindle creator Gregg E. Zehr and lead Apple lawyer Kim M. Cooper snagged the luxury Manhattan apartment for $10.62 million - $2 million over the asking price Leibovitz's former duplex is 3,500 square feet and includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms Leibovitz's former duplex is 3,500 square feet and includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The American photographer, best known for her engaging portraits of celebrities, decided to ditch her dreamy apartment now that her three daughters are all grown up. Leibovitz explained that she chose the property partly because of its proximity to her daughters' school. 'The apartment is now too big for me,' Annie told The New York Times. 'I live and work downtown and our house upstate is now our family home,' referring to the West Village apartment that she bought last year and her property in Rhinebeck, New York. The photographer also added a library wall to the 672-square-foot living room, complete with a sliding ladder The unit is located in the Upper West Side's Brentmore building, known to also house stars such as Robert De Niro , Lorne Michaels, Sting and Paul Simon The American photographer, best known for her engaging portraits of celebrities, decided to ditch her dreamy apartment now that her three daughters are all grown up The property features French doors at the back of the space which open up to a formal dining room with breathtaking park views The Upper West Side apartment stretched over the fifth and sixth floors of the iconic building and the stories were connected with a winding staircase featuring a wooden banister. During her time in the home, Leibovitz added an office and redid the kitchen. The photographer also added a library wall to the 672-square-foot living room, complete with a sliding ladder. 'When I first walked into the apartment over 10 years ago, beautiful light was pouring into the living room windows from the park,' Leibovitz said. The property features French doors at the back of the space which open up to a formal dining room with breathtaking park views. Leibovitz's three daughters are 'building their own lives' now, according to the photographer. She gave birth to her first daughter in October 2001 at the age of 52 and later had twins girls, born to a surrogate mother, in 2005. Leibovitz had a close relationship with writer and essayist Susan Sontag from 1989 until Sontag's death in 2004. During Sontag's lifetime, neither woman publicly disclosed whether the relationship was a platonic friendship or romantic. When Leibovitz purchased the Upper West Side apartment in 2014 she was downsizing from her $28.5 million townhouse in the West Village. Leibovitz bargained the property down from its original listing price of $14.5million, and officially purchased it approximately three weeks ago after the property had been on the market for nearly six months. During her time in the home, Leibovitz added an office and redid the kitchen Leibovitz had a close relationship with writer and essayist Susan Sontag from 1989 until Sontag's death in 2004 The 74-year-old portrait photographer put the duplex on the market for just $8.6 million four months ago The famous photographer, who frequently shoots for Vanity Fair and Vogue, was reported to be $24million in debt in 2009. She eventually reached a long-term agreement with a California-based private investment firm, which helped manage her debt and market her vast portfolio. A source said: 'Shes made great progress on reducing her debt. Moving from a $30 million home to an $11million home is called downsizing. She is being responsible and she continues to do great work at the highest levels.' Jennifer Dulos' elderly mother, who is now the sole carer for her five orphaned grandchildren, has testified in court during her daughter's murder trial. Gloria Farber, 88, used a cane to approach the stand before giving evidence on day 25 of the case at Stamford Superior Court Wednesday morning. Her hand quivered as she raised it to swear the oath before giving evidence, describing Jennifer as a caring mother who was 'always there' for her five children. They were aged between eight and 13 when she vanished on May 24, 2019. Prosecutors say Jennifer, 50, was brutally attacked by her estranged husband Fotis Dulos in her Connecticut home when she returned from dropping their kids off at school, and that his new lover Michelle Troconis helped conceal the crime. Fotis was charged with murder but killed himself aged 52 in January 2020, leaving Venezuelan socialite Troconis, 49, to face the music alone. She denies charges of evidence tampering and conspiracy to commit murder. Jennifer Dulos' mother Gloria Farber, 88, used a cane to approach the stand before giving evidence on day 25 of the case at Stamford Superior Court Wednesday morning Gloria (pictured) took to the stand for the first time on Wednesday, and confirmed that Jennifer had been due to meet her at her Manhattan home on the day she died - but she never turned up Gloria described Jennifer (pictured) as a caring mother who was 'always there' for her five children. They were aged between eight and 13 when she vanished on May 24, 2019 Michelle Troconis (left) and Fotis Dulos (right) were living together in his Farmington CT home at the time of Jennifer's disappearance on May 24, 2019 Gloria, who is the sister of the late fashion tycoon Anne Elisabeth Jane Claiborne behind the New York label Kate Spade, has heard grim details about her daughter's demise through several weeks of hearings at the Connecticut court. She took to the stand for the first time on Wednesday, and confirmed that Jennifer had been due to meet her at her Manhattan home on the day she died - but she never turned up. A rogue juror was previously dismissed for likening the case to the plot of the movie Gone Girl, where the protagonist fakes her own death, and Gloria looked the remaining jurors in the eyes as she confirmed that she has not seen her daughter. Gloria added that Jennifer was 'always there' for her children and 'never' missed a birthday or name day - a Greek custom passed down from their father Fotis. The orphans, Petros, Theodore, Constantine, Christiane and Cleopatra Noelle - who are now aged between 13 and 17 - now live with Gloria and their nanny Lauren Almeida in Manhattan. Almeida, 32, also gave evidence earlier in the trial. She recalled eating lunch with four of Jennifer's children in her kitchen hours after she was allegedly murdered by Fotis in the New Canaan CT home. She was oblivious to the horrors that had purportedly unfolded in the room and the tiny bloodstains splattered on several items in the kitchen where they ate. Almeida said she entered Jennifer's home twice on the day of her disappearance, once in the morning, and again to have lunch with four of the kids. The fifth was at a friend's house. A rogue juror was previously dismissed for likening the case to the plot of the movie Gone Girl, where the protagonist fakes her own death, and Gloria looked the remaining jurors in the eyes as she confirmed that she has not seen her daughter Gloria's hand shook as she raised it to swear the oath before giving evidence, describing Jennifer as a caring mother who was 'always there' for her five children. They were aged between eight and 13 when she vanished on May 24, 2019 Gloria added that Jennifer was 'always there' for her children and 'never' missed a birthday or name day - a Greek custom passed down from their father Fotis Pictured: Gloria Farber arriving at aNew York hotel the day after Fotis Dulos took his own life Jennifer Dulos (left) vanished on May 24, 2019, amid a divorce from her husband Fotis (right), who was later charged with her murder. Fotis killed himself in January 2020, leaving his new lover Michelle Troconis to face trial alone for allegedly helping him conceal the killing Fotis was charged with murder but killed himself aged 52 in January 2020, leaving Venezuelan socialite Troconis, 49, to face the music alone Troconis (pictured approaching Stamford Superior Court for her trial on Tuesday) denies charges connected to her allegedly helping him conceal the crime - including conspiracy to commit murder, evidence tampering and hindering prosecution Troconis has been supported by her family, including her father, throughout the trial Pictured: Troconis approaching Stamford Superior Court with her father and two mystery men There were several chilling clues that Jennifer had not gone about her day as normal, according to the nanny, including her usual morning cup of tea and granola bar left untouched in the kitchen. When asked by the state whether she noticed anything strange in the home the first time she went in, Almeida said: 'First, her purse was on the floor between the mudroom and the kitchen doorway. 'I thought that was a little odd because it was a really nice handbag and it was on the floor. 'When I entered the kitchen - she always had tea in a cup and a granola bar - the tea was still full and the granola bar was still there. Jennifer Dulos was 50 when she disappeared 'I thought it was strange but figured she was in a rush, so I cleaned the tea and put the granola bar away.' Almeida added that she also noticed several rolls of paper towels were missing, but she figured that one of the children had spilled something earlier that morning. The court was earlier shown images of what appeared to be blood inside one of the remaining paper towel rolls, which detectives seized as evidence. Almeida said she picked Jennifer's children up from New Canaan Country Day School at around 12.30pm, and they returned to the home for a quick 20-minute lunch in the kitchen - which would be identified as a crime scene later that day. The nanny recalled how she drove the kids to New York to meet Jennifer at the orthodontist's office where they were due to meet - but medics said the Connecticut mom had not turned up for her appointments. The court was shown several text messages from Almeida to Jennifer, who was her close friend, letting her know how the day was unfolding, receiving no replies. When asked how she felt when she realized Jennifer had not attended her appointments, Almeida said: 'Really bad. 'The second I called Jennifer and she didn't pick up my stomach just sank because she never didn't answer the phone. 'When she wasn't there I was shocked but also had the found kids so put them into their appointments. 'I went outside and started to call people who could have heard from Jennifer. I called my mum who tried to calm me down. Then I called her friends.' Jennifer Dulos was 'terrified' of her husband Fotis in the months before she died, according to their nanny Lauren Almeida (pictured in Stamford Superior Court earlier in the trial) Former state police detective Matthew Reilly said he spotted red stains on several surfaces in Jennifer's kitchen, including on a paper towel roll, sink faucet, and counter-top - and in her garage Evidence of 'blood-like stains' on the ground of Dulos' garage was shown to jurors Jennifer Dulos (pictured) lived with her five children in a rented home in New Canaan, CT Arrest warrants link Dulos (left) and Troconis (right) to videos of trash bags being dumped in areas where Jennifer's blood was later found on clothing and other items After exhausting all their mutual friends, Almeida contacted New Canaan Police, who launched a missing person investigation and visited Jennifer's home later that day. Earlier in the trial, Almeida spoke about the collapse of Jennifer and Fotis' marriage in March 2017 after he admitted to his affair with Troconis, a glamorous Venezuelan-American socialite they had met before on family ski trips. She said their 'odd' but previously amicable marriage rapidly became 'tense and uncomfortable' and that Jennifer moved out of their shared Farmington home with their children to a rented house in New Canaan. Almeida recalled one occasion when Jennifer returned to the Farmington property to collect some belongings, when Fotis 'yelled' at Jennifer and she hid from him behind a door with her youngest child and the nanny. 'Fotis was yelling and she closed the door behind her and she pushed her body up against the door and he was trying to get in,' Almeida said. 'She was terrified. 'He pushed the door more and he saw that his daughter and myself were in the room and his demeanor totally changed. 'Eventually he walked away and she told me she needed to get out of the house.' Almeida described the how Jennifer's mental and physical health deteriorated after March 2017. 'She was increasingly getting more afraid, her anxiety was getting really bad,' Almeida told the court. 'She noticeably lost a lot of weight. She was just afraid, and she expressed that a lot.' Troconis denies charges connected to her allegedly helping him conceal the crime - including conspiracy to commit murder, evidence tampering and hindering prosecution. Prosecutors accuse Fotis of killing Jennifer in her New Canaan, CT home after she returned from dropping their children off at school, and they allege that Troconis helped him dispose of her bloodied clothing in several garbage bags. Jennifer's body was never found, but Judge William P. Osterndorf declared her 'officially dead'. An IT worker accused of the poisoning his millionaire boss and her husband told a police officer she was prone to taking overdoses of medication, a court heard today. Luke D'Wit, 33, allegedly made the claim to a PC after the bodies of Carol Baxter, 64, and husband Stephen, 61, were found at their house. The defendant, who is accused of killing the couple with powerful prescription opioid fentanyl by slipping it into their drinks, also described himself as a close family member in comments recorded on the officer's body camera. D'Wit had taken charge of ensuring Mrs Baxter took medication for an autoimmune condition that affected her thyroid, jurors were told earlier in the trial. He is also said to have made herbal smoothies for her, which she complained tasted 'disgusting' - although the prosecution say this was on the advice of a fake doctor whose online identity was created by D'Wit. The bodies of Stephen, 61, and Carol Baxter, 64, were found at their home in Mersea Island, Essex, on April 9 last year Luke D'Wit, 33, is accused of poisoning his millionaire bosses with powerful prescription opioid fentanyl by slipping it into their drinks D'Wit allegedly rewrote the Baxters' will in his favour after their deaths to include a clause that made him a director of their bathroom accessories company Cazsplash Ltd. Mr and Mrs Baxter's bodies were found slumped in armchairs in the conservatory of the million-pound home in Mersea Island, Essex, on April 9 last year. They were discovered by their daughter Ellie Baxter, 22, and her partner Marcus Young, who are said to have called D'Wit round from his nearby home after making the horrifying discovery. The defendant told PC Robert Bradbrook in the bodycam footage how he had gathered together all of Mrs Baxter's medication at the request of a paramedic at the scene. 'She's got a lot. She had various things over the years and for various operations she's had,' he could be heard saying. 'So I went upstairs and got anything that I thought looked like a tablet and took it downstairs in a brown box. 'I don't know if it's valid but I know Carol. Unfortunately with Carol, you don't know what she's taken. She has levothyroxine but sometimes she forgets and she can take it six or seven times.' D'Wit also told the officer Mrs Baxter, who had four children including two from an earlier relationship, had behaved erratically in recent weeks, including trying to iron something on her kitchen hob. D'Wit allegedly rewrote the Baxters' will in his favour after their deaths to include a clause that made him a director of their bathroom accessories company Cazsplash Ltd. The Baxters' will which was shown to the jury during the murder trial D'Wit, an IT expert who helped the couple with the online side of their business, described himself to police as 'like an adopted son' to Mr and Mrs Baxter Miss Baxter was heard screaming in the background during the footage, saying: 'She has done something silly. I know she has done something silly.' PC Bradbrook said D'Wit told him he had rushed round after Mr Young called him to say that he and Miss Baxter had spotted the motionless couple through a window. D'Wit, who described himself as 'like an adopted son' to the couple, told the officer he had last seen them two days earlier at their home. He said: 'Me and Steve were talking about work and the business because Carol can't work any more. For the past year, she's not been able to do anything.' D'Wit said in the footage that he had been out for dinner the previous night with Miss Baxter and Mr Young and they had driven past the house following concerns the couple weren't answering their phone. 'Because we saw the blinds were down and the light was on, we just thought they didn't want to answer,' he said. 'Then Ellie called this morning. I think we were both a bit uneasy. Ellie popped by first. The blinds were still down and she immediately panicked. I was meeting them anyway but Marcus called me to say they were in the chairs. Stephen Baxter, 61, and his 64-year-old wife Carol, who were found dead sitting in their individual armchairs in their conservatory on Easter Sunday - April 9 - last year The home of the millionaire tycoon husband and wife in Essex where their bodies were found They were discovered by their daughter Ellie Baxter (pictured), 22, and her partner Marcus Young, who are said to have called D'Wit round from his nearby home after finding the bodies 'I literally ran from my home to check. Just as I got here, they had smashed the back window to get in.' Robert Borman, a community first responder for the ambulance service, described the Baxters as 'quite grey, cold and pale' when he arrived. He said and his colleague did not attempt to resuscitate them, explaining: 'There was nothing we felt we could do for them.' The house was 'clean and tidy' with nothing 'like a cup or a book' left out, Mr Borman added. The prosecution claim D'Wit 'watched the couple dying' on a home security surveillance system he secretly set up on two mobile phones - one hidden in their home to take footage and the other in his possession to monitor what was happening. This, they say, allowed him to return to the property when they were unconscious to remove any incriminating evidence. Mr Borman confirmed that his colleague asked if the couple were on any medication and D'Wit had fetched some from a kitchen drawer and went upstairs alone to get more. Earlier in the trial, the court heard how D'Wit created a fake online support group for sufferers of Mrs Baxter's thyroid condition, with members praising supposed treatments recommended by a Florida-based doctor, Andrea Bowden. Advice Mrs Baxter received from 'Dr Bowden' to help with her condition included limiting contact with her family, jurors were told. Carol Baxter who was found dead with her husband Stephen having allegedly been poisoned Miss Baxter and her partner were arrested on suspicion of murder in July last year but were later released. D'Wit, who was arrested at the same time, ended up being charged with the double murder. Under cross examination on Tuesday, Miss Baxter was asked by Adam Davis KC whether she was involved in her parents' death. The mother-of-two, from Colchester, choked back tears as she replied: 'All I am guilty of is loving my parents.' Miss Baxter also claimed her parents thought D'Wit was a 'nerdy weirdo' and considered sacking him from his job helping to run the Cazsplash website as they had grown tired of him constantly visiting heir house. Jurors heard jewellery belonging to Mrs Baxter was found behind a sofa in D'Wit's home after her death. Miss Baxter has denied his claim that she gave it to him to look after for safekeeping. D'Wit is said to have had fentanyl at his home which had belonged to his late grandfather. He denies two counts of murder, theft and possession of a Class A drug. The trial continues. Houthi rebels released footage of what they claim is a $30 million US drone they shot down in Yemen - the second they've destroyed since late last year- as Red Sea tensions escalate. The Houthis released video Tuesday of a surface-to-air missile bringing down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone off the coast of Hodeida, a Yemeni port city they hold on the Red Sea. The footage included a video of men dragging pieces of debris from the water onto a beach. Images of the debris, which included writing in English and what seemed to be electrical equipment, appeared to correspond to known pieces of the Reaper, usually used in attack missions and surveillance flights. Houthi rebels released footage of what they claim to be of $30M US drone shot down in Yemen - the second they've destroyed - as Red Sea tensions escalate Images of the debris, which included writing in English and what seemed to be electrical equipment, appeared to correspond to known pieces of the Reaper, usually used in attack missions and surveillance flights Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told journalists in a briefing the Houthis shot down the $30 million drone. Footage of the drone's destruction was captured by NewsNation's national correspondent Robert Sherman and originally aired on Morning In America. In November, the Pentagon acknowledged the loss of an MQ-9, also shot down by the rebels over the Red Sea. Since the Houthis seized the country's north and its capital of Sanaa in 2014, the U.S. military has lost at least four drones to shootdowns by the rebels in 2017, 2019 and this year. Meanwhile, the Houthis claimed an attack on the Sea Champion, a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier full of grain bound for Aden, Yemen, carrying grain from Argentina. Pictured: Yemen's Houthi followers lift mock drones during a protest staged against the Israeli still war on the Gaza Strip The UK's Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it received a report of an incident 35 nautical miles south of Al Mukha in Yemen on Sunday night. An explosion in close proximity to the vessel had resulted in damage, but all crew are safe and 'authorities are investigating' Central Command said the carrier 'has delivered humanitarian aid to Yemen 11 times in the past five years' as the country remains on the edge of famine amid the war there. On Monday, both the Houthis and Western officials acknowledged one of the most serious attacks on shipping launched by the rebels. The Houthis targeted the Belize-flagged bulk carrier Rubymar with two anti-ship ballistic missiles, and one struck the vessel, the U.S. militarys Central Command said. The UK and the US have carried out joint airstrikes against the Houthis in recent weeks in order to stop attacks on commercial shipping. A handout photo made available by the Houthis media center shows the alleged debris of a US drone after being shot down in the Red Sea port city Pictured: A U.S. Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone sits in a hanger at Amari Air Base in Estonia Since November, the Houthis have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait over Israel's offensive in Gaza. They have often targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperilling shipping in a key route for trade among Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The attacks have prompted several companies to halt Red Sea journeys and opt for a longer and more expensive route around Africa. The Houthis fired naval missiles at the British ship 'LYCAVITOS' in the Gulf of Aden last Thursday. The group said it will continue to enforce a 'blockade on Israeli navigation in the Red and Arabian Seas until a ceasefire is achieved and a siege is lifted in the Gaza Strip'. Since the Houthis seized the country's north and its capital of Sanaa in 2014, the U.S. military has lost at least four drones to shootdowns by the rebels in 2017, 2019 and this year Meanwhile, spiraling shipping costs triggered by the Houthi rebel attacks on vessels in the Red Sea could mean that Britons could face severe price rises and shortages on major household items like white goods, sofas, garden furniture and barbecues this summer. The price of global shipping containers jumped by more than 300 percent from November 2023 to January this year as a result of the chaos. So far, no U.S. sailor or pilot has been wounded by the Houthis since America launched its airstrikes targeting the rebels in January. However, the U.S. continues to lose drones worth tens of millions of dollars and fire million-dollar cruise missiles to counter the Houthis, who are using far cheaper weapons that experts believe largely have been supplied by Iran. Based on U.S. military statements, American and allied forces have destroyed at least 73 missiles of different types before they were launched, as well as 17 drones, 13 bomb-laden drone boats and one underwater explosive drone over their monthlong campaign, according to an AP tally. Lori Vallow is back in court, donning heavy makeup, flashing a bright smile and looking adoringly at her attorney as she faces two charges of conspiracy to kill her ex-husband Charles Vallow in Arizona. The 'Doomsday mom' is accused of scheming with her brother Alex Cox to kill Charles in July 2019 and planning to kill her niece's husband Brandon Boudreaux. In her court appearance on Wednesday, Vallow was seen wearing blush and lipstick with her dyed blond hair curled as she greeted the judge and her attorney. In handcuffs and an orange prison jumpsuit, the mother who was convicted in May of murdering her two children Tylee, 16, and JJ, 7, stated her name and date of birth during what the judge described as a 'complex case scheduling' hearing. The judge scheduled the next pretrial hearing for April 24, and Vallow waived her right to appear on that day before she leaned over and whispered to her attorney. Lori Vallow is back in court, donning heavy makeup, flashing a bright smile and looking adoringly at her attorney as she faces two charges of conspiracy to kill her ex-husband Charles Vallow in Arizona In her court appearance on Wednesday, Vallow was seen wearing blush and lipstick with her dyed blond hair curled as she greeted the judge and her attorney In handcuffs and an orange prison jumpsuit, the mother who was convicted in May of murdering her two children Tylee, 16, and JJ, 7, stated her name and date of birth during what the judge described as a 'complex case scheduling' hearing The 'Doomsday mom'(left) is accused of scheming with her brother Alex Cox to kill Charles(right) in July 2019 and planning to kill her niece's husband Brandon Boudreaux Vallow was extradited from Idaho to Arizona in December of last year to face the charges over Vallow's death in June 2021, and Boudreaux's planned murder in February 2022. The alleged plans to murder her relatives came as Vallow became obsessed with the incoming apocalypse and her whirlwind marriage to doomsday author Chad Daybell in late 2019. The bodies of Tylee and JJ were found in the yard of Daybell's property in June 2020, and he is also set to stand trial for their murder in April. The additional charges against her come after a grand jury indicted Vallow in 2021 in connection to the killing of Charles, who was fatally shot by Cox in her Arizona home. Cox, who died of natural causes in December 2019, insisted he shot and killed Charles out of self-defense, but prosecutors claim it was planned as the brother and sister both descended into beliefs of the apocalypse. Vallow was convicted in May of killing her kids, seven-year-old Joshua (JJ), right, and 16-year-old Tylee, left. The kids went missing in September 2019, but were not found until June 2020 Charles Vallow was shot by Lori's brother Alex Cox (pictured), who claimed he killed out of self-defense. He has also been linked to several other murders related to Vallow, and died of natural causes in December 2019 Brandon Boudreaux (left), the husband of Lori Vallow's niece Melani Boudreaux (right), was shot at in October 2019, allegedly in an attempted murder plot related to Vallow's beliefs in the apocalypse It is claimed that Vallow and Cox, both devout Mormons, were convinced the end times were imminent, and their relatives had become possessed by zombies and believed they could save them through killing them. Prosecutors allege the religious zealotry was an excuse used by the family to carry out the murders. The alleged plotting also saw Vallow allegedly plan to kill her niece's husband Brandon Boudreaux, who was shot at from a moving car in October 2019 but was not hit, shortly after JJ and Tylee were last seen alive. Boudreaux reportedly told investigators at the time he believed Cox was behind the wheel, and it is claimed Cox conspired with Lori to kill Boudreaux and Charles Vallow because they were expressing concerns over the religious extremism that had gripped their family. Vallow denied murdering her children when she was convicted last year and said at her sentencing that she was not responsible for their deaths. 'Jesus Christ knows the truth of what happened here,' she said. 'No one was murdered in this case. Accidental deaths happen. Suicides happen. Fatal side effects from medications happen.' The two children were last seen alive in September 2019, however their remains were not discovered until cops searched Daybell's backyard in June 2020. Daybell, the author of numerous fantasist books warning of the end times, is accused of being involved in the murders related to his wild theories - including that God would spare only 144,000 people when the apocalypse struck in July 2020. Court documents claimed that Vallow wanted to be rid of her family to be ready for the second coming of Christ, and 'she had a more important mission to carry out.' Vallow smirked in a mugshot taken in August after she was sentenced to life in an Idaho prison for murdering her children, JJ and Tylee Vallow denied murdering her children when she was convicted last year and said at her sentencing that she was not responsible for their deaths. Pictured: seven-year-old Joshua (JJ), left, and 16-year-old Tylee, right In 2020, police discovered JJ and Tylee's remains in shallow graves in Chad Daybell's yard Daybell and Vallow married in November 2019, about two weeks after Daybell's previous wife, Tammy, was killed. Tammy initially was described as having died of natural causes, but an autopsy later showed she had been asphyxiated, authorities said. Defense attorney Jim Archibald argued during the trial there was no evidence tying Vallow to the killings, but plenty showing she was a loving, protective mother whose life took a sharp turn when she met Chad Daybell and fell for his 'weird' apocalyptic religious claims. Archibald suggested that Daybell and Vallow's brother, Alex Cox, were responsible for the deaths. Daybell told her they had been married in several previous lives and she was a 'sexual goddess' who was supposed to help him save the world by gathering 144,000 followers so Jesus could return, Archibald said. Vallow's former friend Melanie Gibb testified during the trial that Vallow believed people in her life had been taken over by evil spirits and turned into 'zombies,' including JJ and Tylee. The family and the case were featured on the popular Netflix TV documentary, 'Sins of Our Mother,' where Daybell's surviving child Colby Ryan, 26, reveals the details behind the killings and Lori's beliefs that there was a 'dark spirit' inside her daughter, and the only way to 'free the spirit is to kill the body.' Two former nuns said today that a world-renowned artist priest made them take part in threesomes and watch porn so they would 'grow spiritually'. Slovenian mosaic artist Marko Rupnik, 69, is accused of sexually and psychologically abusing at least 20 women for nearly 30 years at a religious community in Slovenia. 'He took me to pornographic theatres to help me "grow spiritually",' Gloria Branciani, 59, who was a member of the community until 1994, told journalists at a press conference in Rome, the first time she and Mirjam Kovac spoke publicly of their experiences. 'He said that I would not grow spiritually if I did not meet his sexual needs,' she added, describing how the prominent cleric sexualised religious concepts. 'We had another nun have sex with us because he said it was like the Trinity,' Branciani said, referring to the central Christian doctrine of three persons within one God. Rupnik's career has been mired in scandal since he was temporarily excommunicated in 2020 for absolving someone of having sexual relations with him. But it took another three years before the powerful figure was expelled from the Jesuit order. Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director of the abuse tracking site Bishop Accountability, which documents abuse within the Catholic Church, described Rupnik as a 'powerful cleric who was protected at the highest levels of the Church and the Vatican.' Gloria Branciani, one of the two former nuns who accused of sexual abuse Slovenian Marko Rupnik,speaks to media about her experiences in Rome on February 21, 2024 Mirjam Kovac (right) also claimed to have endured various kinds of abuse by world-renowned religious artist Father Marko Rupnik, here appearing publicly for the first time on February 21 Rupnik's mosaics decorate churches and basilicas around the world, including at the Catholic shrine in Lourdes, France, the forthcoming cathedral in Aparecida, Brazil, and the Redemptoris Mater chapel of the Apostolic Palace. He was briefly excommunicated in 2020 for absolving someone of having sexual relations with him, but was reinstated after he formally repented. The scandal grabbed headlines for more than a year over speculation that he received preferential treatment because of his prominence as a world-famous Jesuit artist and preacher by a Vatican dominated by Jesuits. 'The Rupnik case shows that little has changed,' said Barrett Doyle, who called for an independent investigation and the publication of its findings. Rupnik was finally expelled from the Jesuit order - of which Pope Francis is a member - last June. In October, Francis waived the statute of limitations on the offences, opening the way for potential disciplinary proceedings. Under pressure as the scandal grew, Francis in October decided to reopen the case and Branciani is due to soon testify before the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Vatican-accredited lawyer Laura Sgro said that she did not know what the possible lines of investigation are since the Dicastery's proceedings are secret even to victims and their lawyers. Branciani, who first denounced Rupnik in 1993 and then left the Slovene community, called for the full story of the Rupnik scandal and cover-up to come out in public, including the documentation. '[Rupnik] was always protected by everyone, and everything that you could accuse him of was either minimized or denied,' she said. 'We hope that our testimony - and for this reason we're exposing ourselves like this, because we feel protected and supported - will stimulate a greater transparency and a consciousness by everyone, and also maybe the pope who wasn't really aware of the facts that occurred.' Father Marko Ivan Rupnik shows some of his artwork in Rome on November 16, 2007 Lawyer Laura Sgro (L), Gloria Branciani (C) and Mirjam Kovac give a press conference at the headquarters of the Order of Italian Journalists, in Rome, on February 21, 2024 The press conference comes five years after an unprecedented summit at the Vatican on sexual abuse in the Church, at the end of which Francis promised a 'zero tolerance' approached. Rupnik's former Jesuit superior, the Rev. Johan Verschueren, said that he had no contact for a lawyer for Rupnik. T here was no immediate response to an email seeking comment from Rupnik's Centro Aletti art studio and ecumenical center in Rome. Rupnik hasn't commented publicly since the scandal erupted, though the Centro Aletti has strongly supported him and alleged a media 'lynching' against him. A drug dealer who imported over 100 gallons of lethal date rape drug GBL has been jailed for 11 years. Afshin Alikhani, 43, was caught after he was kept under surveillance in a four-year police sting and investigation. The drugs baron imported around 500,000 worth of illegal substances using a cleaning company as a front for his criminal activity. Detectives found messages on his phone showing his planned distributions to buyers and recovered 30,000 in cash from his home in Abbey Road, south Hampstead. GBL is the liquid form of GHB, which is the substance serial killer Stephen Port used to drug and murder his four victims. In 2022 GBL was reclassified from a Class C to a Class B drug acknowledging its use in crime. Afshin Alikhani, 43, was jailed for 11 years after he was caught importing over 100 gallons of the lethal date rape drug GBL GBL is often sold in the form of industrial solvents, stain removers, rust removers and paint strippers Stephen Port used the drug GBH to murder his four victims June 2014 and September 2015 During his trial at Harrow Crown Court last July Alikhani denied his involvement in the offences claiming he imported the drugs as part of his work for the cleaning company. What is gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL)? GBL gamma butyrolactone is sold in a liquid form and once in the body it rapidly turns into the date-rape drug GHB. It has a similar mood-altering effect to ecstasy and has been nicknamed 'coma in a bottle' due to its potency. GHB has been a Class C drug since 2003. Although GBL is used legally in industry, it has also been a Class C drug since 2009. Possessing GBL knowing it will be used as a drug carries a jail sentence of up to four years, or 14 years if you supply it to someone else. GHB was used by serial rapist Reynhard Sinaga, 36, to knock out at least 200 men after which he would then film the attacks on his mobile phone. He was jailed for 60 years in 2020 and must serve a minimum of 30 years in custody before he can be considered for parole. Stephen Port, 47, used lethal doses of GHB to kill Anthony Walgate, 23, Gabriel Kovari, 22, Daniel Whitworth, 21, and Jack Taylor, 25 between June 2014 and September 2015. He was sentenced to a whole-life order at the Old Bailey in 2016. Advertisement He said the messages recovered from his phone showing him offering and delivering crystal meth had been sent by someone else. Alikhani's operation unravelled when a French border official found a box of GBL bottles destined for his storage unit in April 2020. More drugs parcels were stopped at Birmingham Airport by Border Force in October that year. Then a November police raid on the Big Yellow storage unit, off the A406 near Brent Cross, found 258 litres of GBL, 31,000 in cash, and jelly containing Viagra. Another 90 litres were delivered to the storage unit the next day and they were also seized. Then police were led to a Safestore locker with another 90 litres of GBL and hotplates with traces of crystal meth. Alikhani was arrested in November 2020, when more bottles of GBL were found in his Honda Civic car along with a package of crystal meth in his tool box. Three phones were also seized which contained messages about meetings and offers to supply drugs including GBL and crystal meth. Judge Vanessa Francis told the court: 'One explanation was the GBL had been imported for supplying as a legitimate industrial cleaner. 'You said the crystal meth in your car had been sold as an antihistamine for your dog and it had ended up in the tool box after you used it,' recalled. Alikhani also claimed his drug supply texts were sent by someone else, and the ones he could not deny sending were to 'help a friend with a business selling herbs and herbal remedies'. He also told investigators the profits from his drug business was money from Covid bounce-back loans. Harrow Crown Court, where Alikhani appeared for his trial in July last year Defence counsel for Alikhani stressed he did not realise the harmful effects of GHB, which expert witnesses said is easy to overdose on, and would have been opposed to selling a drug if he knew it was dangerous like heroin. 'It's something he deeply regrets and it's something he realises now, the significant impact on the public,' she added. In total around 580 litres of GBL was seized - an 'extreme amount of drugs, an industrial amount of drugs', according to Judge Francis. She also noted Alikhani had previous convictions for drugs offences. Going beyond the guidelines, due to the scale of the operation, Judge Francis jailed Alikhani to 11 years on three counts of possession with intent to supply of GBL, to run concurrently. She gave another 11 years concurrent for three more counts of fraudulent evasion of prohibition, four years concurrent for being concerned in the supply of meth, and 12 months concurrent for possessing criminal property. Alikhani is also subject to POCA proceedings and a five-year Serious Crime Prevention Order to stop him returning to the trade after he is released. Detective Sergeant Isabella Grotto said: 'Alikhani's conviction is a signal to others that the supply of this drug is taken extremely seriously, and we will pursue those who distribute GBL to Londoners. 'We worked long and hard with multiple different teams and gathered expert advice from specialists to ensure we could prove the seriousness of the importation of this drug and its detrimental impact on victims. 'I am proud of everyone who worked on this case and I am confident that we will continue to see more cases like this, with longer sentences as the dangers of GBL are recognised.' Reynhard Sinaga, 36, who used GHB to knock out at least 200 men The senior investigating officer overseeing the case, Detective Inspector Louise Houtmeyers, said: 'This is a first of its kind case for the Met. 'Alikhani was not only importing this dangerous drug, but was attempting to distribute a huge volume to victims across London - he intended to profit off an extremely harmful and illegal substance. 'GBL is highly addictive and can be fatal. There is an emerging trend of this drug being used more frequently, particularly by men who have sex with men, and during chemsex. 'This is often deemed a taboo subject, but this conviction is about raising awareness of the impact of GBL and its associated dangers, not criminalising or ostracising people who might be using it. 'We are determined to protect all London communities and believe the sentencing demonstrates the seriousness and potential harm 500 litres of GBL could have had. 'This case is particularly significant as it sets a precedent for future UK court cases for those who are intent on distributing this dangerous drug - they will face lengthy sentencing and we will pursue offenders.' Nearly two-thirds of voters backed 'don't know' over Vaughan Gething or Jeremy Miles in the contest to become the next Welsh first minister, new polling has shown. In a major embarrassment for the Labour rivals bidding to replace Mark Drakeford, 62 per cent answered 'don't know' when asked who would make the better leader. This compared to just one-fifth (20 per cent) who supported Mr Gething, and 17 per cent who backed Mr Miles. Mr Gething, the economy minister, and Mr Miles, the education minister, are the two contenders to be the next Welsh Labour leader. The winner of the leadership contest, who will be announced on 16 March, will then replace Mr Drakeford as the new Welsh first minister. Mr Drakeford announced his resignation in December after five years in office. Nearly two-thirds of voters backed 'don't know' over Vaughan Gething or Jeremy Miles in the contest to become the next Welsh first minister, new polling has shown This compared to just one-fifth (20 per cent) who supported Mr Gething (pictured), and 17 per cent who backed Mr Miles Mr Gething, the economy minister, and Mr Miles, the education minister (pictured), are the two contenders to be the next Welsh Labour leader The winner of the leadership contest, who will be announced on 16 March, will then replace Mark Drakeford as the new Welsh first minister The More In Common poll, reported by ITV Wales, surveyed 1,000 people in Wales between 24 January and 6 February. It suggested there was little enthusiasm within the wider Welsh public for either candidate - although the new first minister will only be elected by Welsh Labour members and affiliated organisations. The survey also showed Welsh voters preferred a strong vision for the future over a strong record in government. Nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) backed a 'strong vision for the future' compared to 16 per cent who said a 'strong record in government' was their priority. The poll also found 45 per cent of voters thought Mr Drakeford had been a 'very good' or 'quite good' First Minister, compared to 43 per cent who said he had been 'quite bad' or 'very bad'. Conleth Burns, associate director of More In Common, said: 'As Labour members cast their votes in the first minister leadership election, our polling shows Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles neck and neck in the polling. 'However, the in-tray facing the new first minister is stark. Three in five Welsh people think that the Welsh Government has done a bad job on the economy and the NHS 'And what they want to see from the next first minister is a strong vision for the future rather than the next first minister running on their record in government.' Mr Drakeford announced his resignation after a rollercoaster half-decade in power. He saw his popularity surge as he led Wales through the Covid crisis. But his approval ratings later slumped amid continued woes for the NHS in Wales and the controversial imposition of widespread 20mph limits on Welsh roads. Mr Drakeford, in his last few weeks in power, is currently facing protests by farmers over his new subsidy scheme. Farmers will have to commit to planting trees on 10 per cent of their land and allocate another 10 per cent for wildlife habitats as part of the Welsh Government's proposals. But the National Farmers' Union has warned the Labour administration's plan to shift to sustainable farming would - by its own assessment - lead to 122,200 fewer livestock, 5,500 job losses and a 199million loss to farm incomes. President Joe Biden's administration is investing $20 billion to build ship-to-shore cranes in America in order to keep Chinese hackers from spying at U.S. ports. Biden will sign an executive order Wednesday to give the U.S. Coast Guard new powers to issue basic cybersecurity requirements for transportation vessels and ports amid fears Chinese hackers will target American infrastructure, including ports, as it prepares for a potential invasion of Taiwan. One particular area of focus is ship-to-shore cranes, which move cargo containers off of vessels. 'We felt there was real strategic risk here,' said Anne Neuberger, U.S., deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology. 'These cranes, because they are essentially moving the large-scale containers in and out of port, if they were encrypted in a criminal attack, or rented or operated by an adversary, that could have real impact on our economy's movement of goods and our military's movement of goods through ports.' The Biden administration is working to protect ship-to-shore cranes from cyber hacking - above cranes at the Port of Baltimore Senior administration officials noted that 80% of the cranes used in American ports are made in China and use Chinese software, leading to concern the cranes could be used as a Chinese spy tool. President Joe Biden is investing $20 billion over five years to have American-built ship-to-shore cranes Of the 200 Chinese-made cranes at U.S. ports, Coast Guard cyber experts have done security assessments and hunted for malicious cyber activity on 92, or less than half, of them. Beijing has said the concern about hacking is 'paranoia-driven.' But Biden is investing heavily in having American-built cranes be constructed over the next five years, taking money from the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill to fund them. The cranes will be built by a U.S. subsidiary of Mitsui, a Japanese company, to produce the cranes, which officials said would be the first time in 30 years they would be built domestically. 'By design these cranes may be controlled, serviced and programmed from remote locations,' said Rear Adm. John Vann, who leads the Coast Guard cyber command, during a press briefing. 'These features potentially leave PRC-manufactured cranes vulnerable to exploitation,' he said, referring to the People's Republic of China. Late last month, U.S. officials said they had disrupted a state-backed Chinese effort to plant malware that could be used to damage civilian infrastructure. Vann said this type of potential attack was a concern as officials pushed for new standards, but they are also worried about the possibility for criminal activity. A Chinese ship carrying giant cranes approaches Naval Station Norfolk in Hampton, Va. Cranes unload the freight ship MSC Gayane at the Packer Marine Terminal in Philadelphia The new requirements are part of the federal government's focus on modernizing how critical infrastructure like power grids, ports and pipelines are protected as they are increasingly managed and controlled online, often remotely. There is no set of nationwide standards that govern how operators should protect against potential attacks online. Nationwide, ports employ roughly 31 million people and contribute $5.4 trillion to the economy. 'America's system of ports and waterways accounts for over $5.4 trillion of our nation's annual economic activity, and our ports serve as a gateway for over 90% of all overseas trade,' Vann noted. Several top-ranking American officials, including FBI director Christopher Wray, have warned of the threats posed by the infiltration of the nation's critical infrastructure by Chinese hackers, who would aim to take down the United States' power grid, oil pipelines and water systems in the event of a conflict over Taiwan. Republican lawmakers have also raised concerns. 'The CCP Act, a law I introduced last year, directed the Secretary of Defense & Director of Nat'l Intelligence to take security threats from cranes made in China seriously. Finally, they are reacting to what we already knew: We can't let China control our critical infrastructure,' wrote Republican Senator John Cornyn of Texas on X. The law that Cornyn is referencing requires the federal government to evaluate threats to U.S. ports posed by cranes manufactured in countries of concern, especially those made by China's Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC). And, throughout the past year, Pentagon officials have expressed concern the ship-to-shore cranes made by the China-based manufacturer ZPMC are essentially a trojan horse. The cranes are well-made and inexpensive but contain sophisticated sensors that can register and track containers, leading to concerns that Bejing could capture information about materiel being shipped in or out of the country to support U.S. military operations around the world. Five ship to shore cranes and gangs of longshoremen work to load and unload the container ship at the Port of Savannah, Georgia The huge cranes are generally delivered to U.S. ports fully assembled on ships and are operated through Chinese-made software. In some cases, they are supported by Chinese nationals working on two-year U.S. visas. This is the moment Digga D's home was visited by armed police while the rapper was in the middle of an Instagram Live. Footage shows the 23-year-old - whose real name is Rhys Angelo Emile Herbert - shouting at officers attempting to enter his property earlier today. The rapper can be heard shouting: 'What do you lot want, I'm here! I am here! Stop! What are you lot doing?' He tells the police he is 'on the floor' before an officer shouts 'armed police', to which he replies: 'I am coming! Why are you lot doing that?' Just before the Instagram live cuts out, he is told to come to the front door with his hands held up. The Metropolitan Police said a 23-year-old was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs and remains in custody. The 23-year-old rapper can be seen shouting at police trying to come through his front door Digga can be heard shouting: 'What do you lot want, I'm here! I am here! Stop! What are you lot doing?' British rapper Digga D performing one of his songs on stage Digga D is set to make appearances at both Wireless Festival and Reading and Leeds this year. Last August he released 'Back To Square One', which was his latest mixtape. He released his first song in 2011 and in the same year formed his own drill group with some of his friends. The group was named 1011 after the W10 and W11 post codes in West London. The group, which also includes members with the stage names ZK, Mskum, Sav'O and Horrid1, released a number of singles up until 2018. The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: 'On Wednesday, 21 February officers carried out a warrant at a residential address in Lincolnshire under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. 'A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs. He remains in custody. 'Enquiries continue.' A United Airlines flight traveling to Los Angeles International Airport was diverted to Chicago after a bomb threat Wednesday morning. United Flight 1533 took off from Newark Liberty International Airport at 6:05 am and landed at O'Hare Airport at 7:44 am Chicago time. A suspicious bag was found aboard the flight, KTLA reported. A note was also found in the bathroom stating the plane would blow up, an initial police investigation found. The plane's 202 passengers were evacuated, and the plane was searched at a remote location inside O'Hare Airport, police said in a statement. United Flight 1533 took off from Newark Liberty International Airport at 6:05 am and landed at O'Hare Airport at 7:44 am Chicago time The plane's 202 passengers were evacuated, and the plane was being searched at a remote location at O'Hare Airport, police said Police dogs were deployed to the plane upon landing, with one K-9 finding a suspicious bag and a robot was deployed to remove it Police dogs were deployed to the plane upon landing, with one K-9 finding a suspicious bag and a robot was deployed to remove it, CBS reported. The dog connected a scent from the threatening note and the bag, an airline source told CBS. Police are questioning the passenger who checked the bag, and the FBI is also investigating the incident. 'Someone allegedly went into the bathroom and made a bomb threat on the bathroom window and now we've made an emergency landing in Chicago,' passenger Rashad Robinson posted on X. 'We are being held on buses away from the plane about a mile away from the main O'hare airport,' he explained. 'They are going to go through everyone's bags and we don't have a clear plan for getting to LA or back to Newark,' he stated. Sports columnist Ian O'Connor was also on board the United flight, and confirmed that all passengers disembarked safely. 'We were told in air only that a situation forced the diversion,' he explained on X. 'The threat was revealed to us when the plane was parked and police and fire trucks started closing in. Adding: 'All off safely. Made for a tense final 40 minutes in air but crew did a good job being firm and urgent without showing panic.' 'United flight 1533 diverted to Chicago this morning due to a potential security concern,' United said in a statement. 'The flight landed safely and met local law enforcement upon arrival. 'Customers deplaned and we expect the flight to depart for Los Angeles later this afternoon.' A father at the centre of a police investigation into young children who have allegedly been 'abducted and flown to Syria' has been pictured. Tariq Rabah, the father of eight-year-old Kamal and 10-year-old Kefah, picked his children up from Church Stretton train station in Shropshire on Valentine's Day. It was agreed by the children's mother, Alaa Azzam, that they could spend part of the half-term holiday with him. But just two days later, Ms Azzam received a call from a relative to say her husband had been seen in Jordan, sparking fears her children had been abducted. Detectives are now investigating the incident, with the children - who have dual British-Jordanian citizenship - now being treated as 'high-risk missing people'. Ms Azzam has flown to Jordan in a bid to find them, but has since been told by her solicitor they have been taken to Syria, 'where there are no laws and no courts'. Tariq Rabah, the father of eight-year-old Kamal and 10-year-old Kefah, picked his children up from Church Stretton train station in Shropshire on Valentine's Day Alaa Azzam (pictured right) with her two young children. They relocated to Shropshire two years ago Speaking to MailOnline, Ms Azzam said: 'I am a mother, I will take any risk to get my children home safely. My children are my life. There is nothing more I can do than go to Jordan and save them.' 'My solicitors will start a High Court application but I can't wait until then. I don't know how my kids are feeling.' A court order is in place that states Ms Azzam's children cannot be taken out of the country without the consent of the parent responsible for them or the court's permission, MailOnline understands. Ms Azzam believes her husband has taken the children as a form of 'punishment', and admitted she has 'never been apart' from them. She fears the children were taken to Jordan because the Middle Eastern country has not signed the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed they are assisting a British woman following a situation in Jordan. Alaa Azzam (pictured front) with her two children Kefah, 10, and Kamal, eight Ms Azzam pictured with her two young children, who have British-Jordanian citizenship Ms Azzam left her former home in Swansea two years ago, after her ex-husband of eight years 'wanted them to move abroad to Jordan to live with his family,' she claimed. The relationship had allegedly been abusive before she relocated to Shropshire and moved into a refuge with the help of police. When asked about her husband, Ms Azzam said: 'He never allowed me to have any surroundings or community around me. I didn't have any friends until I came to Shropshire. For eight years, he was my life. She added: 'He was very controlling of my daughter. She had very long hair, so she said to me, "mommy, I want to donate my hair to Cancer Research. I said to her, "it's totally up to you. It's your hair. And you can do whatever you want my lovely". 'She raised 250 for the community. When her father saw her hair that short he said to her "it is not up to you to do that to your hair".' Ms Azzam claimed her husband abducted the children as a form of 'punishment'. Pictured: The family together In August last year, the court granted Ms Azzam custody of her children, while their father was granted access to see them on a fortnightly basis and on school holidays. Her husband, who is an A&E consultant, allegedly returned to Jordan after 20 years in the UK last year. Ms Azzam received a message from him in January 2024 to say that he was returning to the UK and wanted to continue with court procedures. 'I did not want to go back to court,' Ms Azaam explained, 'I didn't want to have this again. I'd had enough, and I just wanted to live in peace with my children.' Ms Azzam agreed to let her husband see their children and it was arranged for the end of February, during the half-term holiday. Kamal and Kefah (pictured) just before Christmas with a friend dressed as The Grinch. The pair are now being treated as high-risk missing people. 'On February 12 he sent me a message saying to me that on the 14th he'll be coming and picking up the children, I said to him, "okay, that's fine with me". 'My daughter starts crying, and she says to me, "I don't want to go back to Daddy. I don't want to go, and I don't want to see him". 'And then I say to her, please try and enjoy your time with dad and that "we have agreed that you need to build a relationship with him". 'Now I feel that I have let down my daughter, and I handed her to him.' Ms Azzam explained: 'I went back home and on Friday, my cousin who lives in Jordan and is his parents' neighbour, she called me and she said to me "Alla, where are the children?" I said to her "the kids are with their father having their half holiday". She said to me the father is in Jordan." Ms Azzam started frantically calling her husband, asking to speak to her children, to which he allegedly responded with: 'the children will speak to you in an hour'. 'My concern started rising again that there is something not good. I called him again, and I said "where are the kids?" and he said "shut up and listen to me carefully". 'And then I started shouting and screaming at him at the phone, and when I hung up the phone I called the solicitor. I called the police.' A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: 'On Friday February 16, we received a report that two children from Shropshire had been illegally taken abroad by a family member. 'An investigation has been launched and the children, aged 10 and 8, are being treated as high-risk missing people. Extensive enquiries are underway to locate them and ensure they are safe. 'The Foreign and Commonwealth Office are supporting their family.' Do YOU have a story to be investigated? Email megan.howe@mailonline.co.uk. The family of a 27-year-old Louisiana woman whose body was dumped at a vacant apartment building is outraged that the man whom she was last seen with and who later dumped her body is on probation. Damion Matthews, 38, was arrested February 23, 2023 on two charges of unlawful disposal of remains and obstruction of justice in the death of Macy Peebles. Peebles first met Matthews when the pair were at a casino. The young woman left with Matthews before she turned up dead. He was later accused of discarding the women's remains, and moving her corpse, officials said. On Tuesday, at his trial hearing in 19th District Court in Baton Rouge he faced Judge Louise Hines, and entered a guilty plea, his public defender Alex Hertenstein told DailyMail.com. It is unclear if Matthews entered a plea deal to a lesser charge. Hertenstein did not immediately respond back to DailyMail.com's further requests for comment. Macy Peebles, 27, first met Matthews when the pair were at a casino. The young woman left with Matthews before she turned up dead Damion Matthews, 38, was arrested February 23, 2023 on two charges of unlawful disposal of remains and obstruction of justice in the death of Macy Peebles Matthews bonded out of the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison a day after his arrest on $15,000 bail. Following Tuesday's hearing that seemingly saw Matthews walk free on probation, Peebles' cousin Kristin Martin took to X, formerly Twitter, to share her rage. 'This monster drugged my 27 yr old cousin at the L'Auberge Casino in Baton Rouge last February. He dumped her half naked dead body like trash,' Martin wrote. 'Rap sheet a mile long. He walks today on PROBATION. Damion Matthews may you reap what you have sown @govjefflandryy.' It was Matthews' second court appearance since November 2023, which was a motion hearing. Martin followed up with a second post expressing her frustration and tagged Representative Clay Higgins, a representative for Louisiana's third congressional district. '@RepClayHiggins. Drugged w/fentanyl and dumped. This monster WALKS FREE,' Martin said. According to the East Baton Rouge Coroner's Office, there weren't 'any obvious signs of trauma or injury,' BRProud previously reported. Homicide Detectives received information that the victim was at a local casino and was possibly seen leaving with an unknown Black male,' in the arrest affidavit, as per the news outlet. Surveillance footage showed Peebles leaving the casino with Matthews around 2.30 am. Detectives suspect the woman died of a possible overdose, WBRZ Baton Rouge News reported. On February 23, 2023, around 8.30am, deputies from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office responded to 8838 GSRI Avenue about an unresponsive person outside of a vacant 4-plex apartment unit that was under construction. Deputies identified the deceased as the 27-year-old woman. Investigators went through surveillance footage from different cameras. The first camera showed that Peebles' body was not at the location where her body was later discovered. Surveillance footage from the apartments showed a man, later identified as Matthews driving by the apartment complex and leaving the body behind a fence, as per the news outlet. Investigators believed Peebles had been moved to the apartment location based on the position of the body and her clothes which indicated that she was dragged to the location. As detectives were securing the crime scene, Matthews was seen on several different cameras driving around the area. At one point, he is seen at the crime scene asking a deputy about the investigation, Unfiltered with Kiran reported. Investigators were able to use license plate readers to identify his car. Video footage also showed that he was dressed in the same clothes as he was wearing the night he met Peebles at the casino. Hours after the young woman's body was found, Matthews was taken into custody and transported to the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. The family was on vacation in South Florida when tragedy struck at the beach A seven-year-old girl who died after she was trapped in a sand hole she was digging at the beach was vacationing in Florida with her family from Indiana. Police have identified the girl as Sloan Mattingly; her brother Maddox, who also had to be rescued from the hole at the Lauderdale-by-the Sea-beach and was taken to the hospital in stable condition. An audio of the 911 call reporting the horrifying incident offers a glimpse into the frantic moments on Tuesday as over a dozen adults tried to save the siblings trapped in the sand. Sloan was reportedly not breathing when she was pulled out from the sand, after reportedly been trapped in the hole for about 15 minutes. Witnesses said the children were digging the hole and playing inside of it when the ground gave way. Cell phone footage show the moment a crowd of desperate beachgoers started trying to dig them out before firefighters arrived. A seven-year-old girl who died after she was trapped in a sand hole she was digging at the beach was vacationing in Florida with her family from Indiana Frantic passersby got on their knees and dug with their hands in a desperate attempt to reach the girl Bystanders recorded the moments after the collapse showing people on their knees digging with their hands through the sand. Some tried to hold the walls back to stop more sand from collapsing in on the children. Other children stood and watched as the dreadful scene unfolded before their eyes. Spokesperson for Pompano Beach Fire, Sandra King, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that the adults who were with the children were too distraught to provide additional details at the scene. She said the hole was about five to six feet deep when it collapsed leaving the boy buried up to his chest with the girl completely buried beneath him. It wasn't immediately clear if any adults were helping the children dig the hole or were playing in it with them. In the aftermath of the collapse a crowd of people could be seen standing around the massive pit. Hauntingly, two buckets could be seen nearby. It's unclear if these belonged to the children caught up in the collapse. Although sand hole deaths are very rare, they are not unheard of and there have been studies and warnings published about them. Last week at Jersey Shore Beach, a toddler became trapped after a hole he was playing in collapsed and buried him. After an initial panic, the boys father was able to save him. A crowd gathered to help try to dig the children out until the authorities arrived Last May, a 17-year-old boy died in the small resort town of Frisco, on the Outer Banks in Virginia after he became trapped in a hole that was dug in a back-dune area behind the beachs primary dune along the Atlantic Ocean. The teenager was buried under several feet of sand after an adjacent dune apparently collapsed into the hole. After his death, a property management and vacation home company in the Outer Banks Seaside Vacations wrote a blog after a fatal sand collapse in the area about the dangers of digging holes at the beach. They said: 'Sand is, by nature, structurally unstable. Beach erosion, storms, and the removal of sand can weaken the area, potentially causing issues even after the hole has been filled back in.' They recommended never digging deeper than knee height, particularly not in an area with dunes. Star Wars actor Ewan McGregor has been accused of carrying out 'unauthorised' work at his 2.35million 10-bed mansion in Scotland. Perth and Kinross Council have launched a probe into allegations of planning breaches at the Hollywood superstar's Carse of Gowrie home. The claims focus on alleged alterations to the master bedroom and bathroom suite which may have been undertaken without planning permission, it has emerged. It is believed internal partitions have also allegedly been removed. A building warrant was obtained for the works last year but the council said planning permission was needed too. It has been claimed council officials wrote to McGregor pointing out that his mansion would need permission for certain works to be carried out due to its C-Listed protected status. The case is 'pending consideration' from council officials and it is hoped the issue will be resolved by March 19. Star Wars actor Ewan McGregor, pictured in December last year, has been accused of carrying out 'unauthorised' work at his 2.35million 10-bed mansion in Scotland It is alleged that McGregor, pictured in Star Wars Episode I, carried out alterations to the master bedroom and bathroom suite - possibly without planning permission Property records show the 52-year-old bought the Category C-listed 10 bedroom property last May for 2.35million. It had been on the market for over 2.15million. The home features a gate lodge and a courtyard of outbuildings. It has more than 15,000sq-ft of living space on three floors, with a two-bedroom flat, stores and a wine cellar on the lower ground floor. The accommodation includes an entrance hall, three reception rooms, a billiards room, family room, study and a 1930s hothouse/conservatory. The mansion is just a 35 minute drive from Crieff where McGregor grew up. The actor has been spotted regularly in the area in recent weeks and it is understood he will now split his time between Scotland and Los Angeles. Since buying the home, McGregor has been carrying out renovations. It is understood that he was granted permission by the council to erect a replacement garage and to create a new master bedroom and bathroom suite. However, the local authority received a complaint that alleged 'unauthorised works' have been carried out on the listed building. The Trainspotting actor recently thanked a Perth window firm and stopped by a jeweller in the city as well. A post on the Balhousie Glazing Facebook page said the actor was 'delighted' with the windows and doors installed at his home. According to Perth and Kinross Council's website, listed building consent 'is required for any internal or external alteration, extension or demolition of a listed building which would affect its character as a building or structure of architectural or historic interest'. It also states that it is an offence 'to carry out works to a listed building without consent and may be subject to enforcement action'. If an enforcement notice is served and not complied with, offenders can be fined up to 50,000 in court. It has been claimed council officials wrote to McGregor, pictured in the 1995 film Trainspotting, pointing out that his mansion would need permission for certain works to be carried out due to its C-Listed protected status McGregor previously visited a food van in Dundee and a restaurant in Perth as he spends time in the area. He left Scotland in his late teens to move to London to pursue his acting ambitions. He later moved to the US after his Hollywood career took off. Architects in charge of the works have been asked to provide more details and a decision on any further action will then be made. Perth and Kinross Council said they had no further updates. A spokesman said earlier: 'An allegation regarding this property was recently reported to us and our officers will consider the matter in line with our planning enforcement charter.' Architects McKenzie Strickland Associates were asked for comment. Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford was accused of 'naked contempt' for farmers today after video emerged of him apparently mocking protesters during a visit to Rhyl. The Labour politician appeared to say hundreds who turned up at a visit to a college in north Wales had 'nothing better to do', in footage published by the local newspaper. As many as 200 people flocked to Coleg Llandrillo today, as part of a long-running row over changes to post-Brexit farm subsidies. The Rhyl Journal later published footage showing Mr Drakeford, who steps down in three weeks, discussing the protest inside. After being asked if it was ''nice to get past the tractors', he seemed to be heard replying: 'Nothing better to do, apparently.' Andrew RT Davies, the leader of the Welsh Conservatives said: Mark Drakeford has repeatedly shown his naked contempt for our farmers. 'Labour's anti-farmer policies will destroy agricultural communities in Wales, and will do the same to England if Keir Starmer ever gets the keys to Number 10. 'Metropolitan politicians should listen to our rural communities and work with them rather than ignoring their concerns, because no farmers means no food.' The Labour politician appeared to say hundreds who turned up at a visit to a college in north Wales had 'nothing better to do', in footage published by the local newspaper. Wales has been struck by a series of protests by farmers over Labour's plans for a replacement for EU subsidy schemes, which involve them planting trees on 10 per cent of their land in exchange for handouts. At Rhyl College, Wales, 3,000 farmers and their families gathered today to protest One of the tractors in the protest carried a sign which read 'No Farmers, No Food, No Future' Pictured are a group of farmers and their tractors gathered in Rhyle Denbighshire today Protestors broke through the police cordon and demanded to speak to Mark Drakeford North Wales police block the access door to where Mark Drakeford attended Rhyl College Wales has been struck by a series of protests by farmers over Labour's plans for a replacement for EU subsidy schemes, which involve them planting trees on 10 per cent of their land in exchange for handouts. Mr Drakeford was unrepentant at First Minister's Questions in the Senedd yesterday in a clash with Mr Davies, saying: 'I think it's important that I remind the leader of the opposition why we are in the position that we are in: it's because farmers in Wales took his advice and voted to leave the European Union... 'Believe me, we are in the position that we are in today because we have taken back control of farming support in Wales, as we were obliged to do. If farmers in Wales were still able to have access to the funds that were available through the European Union, they would be in a very different position than they are having heard and followed his advice.' The First Minister has been approached for comment. It came as a new poll revealed nearly two-thirds of voters backed 'don't know' over either candidate to replace him as the next Welsh first minister. Nearly two-thirds of voters backed 'don't know' over Vaughan Gething or Jeremy Miles in the contest to become the next Welsh first minister, new polling has shown Spanish farmers block major highways with their tractors in Madrid today The farmers' protests began on February 6 in Madrid and are ongoing today Crowds gather around the tractors and farmers in Madrid as they block highways in protest In a major embarrassment for Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles, 62 per cent answered 'don't know' when asked who would make the better leader. This compared to just one-fifth (20 per cent) who supported Mr Gething, and 17 per cent who backed Mr Miles. Mr Gething, the economy minister, and Mr Miles, the education minister, are the two contenders to be the next Welsh Labour leader. The winner of the leadership contest, who will be announced on 16 March, will then replace Mr Drakeford as the new Welsh first minister. Mr Drakeford announced his resignation in December after five years in office. The 22-year-old, who is accused of five murders, is a member of 'Artistas Asesinos,' an enforcement unit of the Sinaloa Cartel A Mexican woman wanted for a string of gang murders and dismembering her victims was arrested at a Texas motel by the FBI and U.S. Border Patrol. Michelle Pineda was allegedly involved in five murders and suspected of playing a role in several other killings in the border town of Ciudad Juarez, the FBI said in a statement. The 22-year-old was notoriously known for dismembering the bodies of her victims and removing their hearts, which were placed on an altar in front of the 'Santa Muerte' ('Holy Death'), a Mexican folk saint that is represented by a skeletal figure. Pineda had unlawfully crossed the United States-Mexico border and was running a drug trafficking ring for the 'Artistas Asesinos' street gang - a Sinaloa Cartel enforcement unit. Mexican national Michelle Pineda was arrested by the FBI and U.S. Border Patrol at an El Paso, Texas hotel last Thursday. The 22-year-old is accused of five murders and participating in several others with members of the Artistas Asesinos - a gang linked to the Sinaloa Cartel - in the border city of Ciudad Juarez Federal and local agents raided the hotel where Michelle Pineda was staying at and found two guns, knives, machetes and an unspecified amount of drugs, including fentanyl powder and pills Federal and local authorities learned last Thursday that she was in the country illegally and raided the motel during the early hours. Agents confiscated a shotgun, revolver, knives and machetes along with an unknown quantity of fentanyl powder and pills, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and Xanax. Pineda was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and then escorted to the border entry point by Border Patrol and FBI agents, who transferred her custody to the Chihuahua State Police and State Attorney General's Office of Chihuahua. 'Today's deportation highlights the swift action of our agents and our significant partnerships by successfully taking a violent assassin off our streets and putting her back into the hands of Mexican law enforcement to be tried for her crimes,' said John Morales, FBI El Paso special agent in charge. 'Working hand-in-hand with our partners whether in law enforcement, the private sector, and with foreign law enforcement agencies is paramount in order to keep people like Pineda from bringing violence and drugs into our lives and poisoning our communities.' Pineda, suspected of participating in 20 murders, including five she has been charged for, was arrested in El Paso, Texas, last Thursday and handed over to Mexican authorities the following day Pineda and Artistas Asesinos gang members reportedly murdered more than 20 people, whose bodies were dismembered and abandoned across Ciudad Juarez, according to the Chihuahua State Attorney General's Office. Pineda allegedly murdered a couple on November 24, 2003, and killed a man December 5. The male victim's neck was cut and his body was dismembered at a home and placed in bags that were found strewn in the border city. Carlos Salas, who serves as the attorney general in Chihuahua's northern zone, told El Diario de Juarez newspaper that Pineda's criminal record dates to when she was just 13 years old. 'This young woman grew up surrounded by violence, both inside her home and outside,' he said. The time came when she became involved with the Artistas Asesinos a structure in which she escalated very quickly.' 'He was a priority objective for both countries, as a member of the criminal group,' Salas added. 'She was very versatile and operated on both sides of the border, she knew in many cases when the police were nearby and she fled in a timely manner from the places where they were already located and almost about to be arrested.' Ewen MacIntosh's final selfie was shared from a hospital bed during his long-running struggles with his health. The Office star, who played Keith Bishop in the original UK version of the series, has died at the age of 50, his management announced on Wednesday, prompting a wave of tributes and memories from fans and famous friends. The selfie was posted by MacIntosh to X, formerly Twitter, on February 6 2022 - around three weeks after he had made a cameo role in Office co-star Ricky Gervais' Netflix series After Life's third and final series. The photo showed him shirtless in a hospital bed attached to monitoring equipment. He captioned it: 'Bad times for me I'm afraid chums. Stat (sic) strong out there,' signing it off with a thumbs-up emoji. Ewen MacIntosh shared this selfie of himself in a hospital bed in February 2022 - the last photo of himself he shared MacIntosh won fans for his portrayal of the deadpan, Scotch egg-loving accounts department worker Keith Bishop in The Office He made a cameo appearance as 'Buffet Man' in the final series of Ricky Gervais' After Life on Netflix - the show airing weeks before he shared his hospital selfie Ricky Gervais shared a number of tributes to MacIntosh on X, formerly Twitter, including an image of himself opposite the actor in a Red Nose Day Office sketch Fans and friends alike responded to the post at the time with best wishes, including some with references to his role in the iconic BBC series opposite Ricky Gervais. His character, Keith, was fixated on Scotch eggs and watching repeats of Peak Practice; his appraisal by Gervais' David Brent, in which he lists 'eczema' as a weakness, is beloved by fans and held up as a standout scene in the series. The hospital selfie was the last photo MacIntosh shared of himself on social media, having stopped posting on X in 2022. Up until April that year, he had been posting jokes, sharing his progress on variations of the word game Wordle, and linking to the personalised celebrity greetings website Memmo, where he could be booked for video messages. Bookings could not be made on his Memmo page as of earlier today. In 2021, he offered personalised videos for $58.50 - and offered himself up for advertising campaigns for $533.50. He also stopped posting on Instagram in 2021. However, the comments of his old posts on the Meta-owned photo-sharing website are littered with tributes posted by fans today. His cause of death was not revealed in the announcement, but his family thanked Willow Green Care Home in Darlington for their support in his last days, while friends confirmed he had been receiving treatment in the runup to his death. The statement, issued on Wednesday morning, read: 'With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen MacIntosh. 'His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home. 'There will be a private cremation for family & close friends soon & a celebratory memorial later in the year.' MacIntosh's friend, executive producer Ed Scott, the CEO of Dodged A Bullet Music, also confirmed he had been receiving treatment from doctors and nurses in the runup to his death. Mr Scott added: 'Ewen was so full of empathy, kindness, and integrity and above all a really good man. 'Sending love to his parents Sara and Ewen Sr, his brother Colin and his family, as well as his many friends and fans.' He also paid tribute to those who had cared for his friend, penning: 'Thanks to the incredible care and love provided by the wonderful medical staff and especially the nurses who all loved him when he brought a smile to their days. 'I saw first hand the empathy and incredible care they gave him was just so reassuring during the toughest of times and am forever grateful to them all.' MacIntosh appeared in the final series of Gervais' Netflix show After Life as 'Buffet Man' - a man who was banned from an all-you-can-eat buffet for 'putting it out of business'. In the memorable scene in which he was interviewed by Gervais' character, journalist Tony Johnson, he was asked if he went 'twice a day' to the buffet for lunch and then for dinner. With perfect deadpan styling, MacIntosh replies: 'No, from lunch until dinner. Then I was full.' Gervais has shared a number of memories of working alongside his co-star on X today. Posting a photo of him as Keith in The Office, he wrote: 'Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as 'Big Keith' from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP.' Gervais later shared a picture of a trophy for 'comedy moment of the year', as awarded by the defunct TV Moments Awards - revealing it had been given for Keith's timeless appraisal scene. He also shared a photo of himself chuckling as David Brent opposite MacIntosh in a Red Nose Day sketch, in which Keith dressed up as Ali G. The picture was captioned: 'A day without laughter is a day wasted.' Samantha Cedillo, 32, had an ongoing inappropriate relationship with a convicted murderer, 47, at the Omaha Correctional Center A female Nebraska prison worker who pleaded guilty to sexually abusing an inmate and having his baby was sentenced to three years of probation. Samantha Cedillo worked at the Omaha Correctional Center as a nonclinical program manager beginning in June 2021. Cedillo, 31 at the time, was charged in 2023 with first-degree sexual assault of an inmate, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The charges came after the prison employee had an inappropriate relationship with an inmate, James Price - who was serving time for murder, which resulted in her becoming pregnant with his child. In November 2021 prison staff members were advised that Cedillo was involved in a relationship with a library clerk - a 47-year-old man serving a life sentence for murder. A female Nebraska prison worker Samantha Cedillo (pictured) who pleaded guilty to sexually abusing an inmate and having his baby was sentenced to three years of probation on Tuesday Cedillo, 31 at the time, was charged in 2023 with first-degree sexual assault of an inmate, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison The pair were documented to have at least 10 questionable interactions or violations of conduct over four months. Cedillo received a warning and the inmate was removed from his position as library clerk, but the couple continued to meet behind closed doors in her office. In one instance in March 2022, Cedillo was seen on surveillance taking off her radio belt as the couple moved behind the office door, out of the camera's view. Cedillo was seen by another officer hurrying back to her chair with an untucked shirt and messy hair in one instance, according to reports. After being asked to write a report about the incident, Cedillo resigned from her position instead. Later - investigators discovered a baby registry that Cedillo had made with a due date in mid-December, nine months after the pair were caught in March. The pair messaged each other on an illegal phone that the inmate had - discussing their child and their 'love'. Following the birth of Cedillo's baby, investigators obtained a search warrant for a DNA test which proved that the inmate was in fact the father. It is a felony for an employee or contractor with a state prison facility or city/county jail to subject an inmate to sexual contact - regardless of 'consent'. The charges came after the prison employee had an inappropriate relationship with an inmate, James Price - who was serving time for murder, which resulted in her becoming pregnant with his child Samantha Cedillo worked at the Omaha Correctional Center as a nonclinical program manager beginning in June 2021 Cedillo wiped away tears as she was sentenced by District Court Judge LeAnne Srb in court on Tuesday. 'This is a disturbing case,' Srb said to Cedillo, with her attorney, James McGough, by her side. 'What happened here should not have happened.' Srb said that she believed Cedillo had fought an uphill battle in life but ultimately had taken responsibility for her actions. A lawsuit filed against Black by an alleged victim with Down syndrome is ongoing ierson had accused the 72-year-old financier of raping her two decades ago at Epstein's Manhattan home The suit filed by Cheri Pierson was 'voluntarily dismissed jointly by both parties,' according to her lawyer Jeanne Christensen A former accuser of Jeffrey Epstein's associate Leon Black has ended her lawsuit after claiming the billionaire raped her in Epstein's New York mansion. The suit filed by Cheri Pierson was 'discontinued with prejudice and without costs to any party as against the other,' according to a Manhattan Supreme Court filing signed by her lawyer and Black's attorney Friday. Pierson had accused the 72-year-old financier of raping her two decades ago at Epstein's Manhattan home. Jeanne Christensen, a partner with Wigdor LLP, the firm representing Pierson, confirmed to DailyMail.com that the lawsuit was 'voluntarily dismissed jointly by both parties.' Black had previously lost his motion to dismiss the complaint as well as his motion seeking sanctions in the case. A lawsuit accusing billionaire investor Leon Black, 72, of rape was 'discontinued with prejudice and without costs to any party as against the other,' according to a Manhattan Supreme Court filing Jeanne Christensen, a partner with Wigdor LLP representing accuser Cheri Pierson, reaffirmed that the suit was 'voluntarily dismissed jointly by both parties' In a November 2022 complaint, Pierson alleged that Epstein arranged for her to give Black a massage in 2002, though he did not disclose the 72-year-old's name In a November 2022 complaint, Pierson alleged that Epstein arranged for her to give Black a massage in 2002. She said she was a single mother living in New Jersey who was introduced to the sex offender by his assistant, Ghislane Maxwell. Epstein did not disclose Black's name, saying only that he 'helps people' and implying that he may be able to help Pierson sell a skin care product, according to documents. In the 'brutal attack' that took place in a suite of the townhouse, Black physically overwhelmed her and left her in 'excruciating pain.' Pierson alleged that she recalled 'desperately yelling and screaming' and 'struggled to free her legs from his vicious grip, but he was too strong.' After the assault, the pair left Epsteins apartment and outside, 'Black turned to Pierson and said "I am Black,"' the filings read. The suit alleged that 'Black had the opportunity and the means to rape Ms. Pierson that day because their meeting was pre-arranged by his close friend and confidant, Epstein.' Black's legal team maintained that Pierson's claims were baseless, with Black insisting that he had never met her. Black (right) stepped down from his role as CEO of Apollo in 2021 after he was revealed as a long-time associate of pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein (left) Black was accused of rape by two other women, both represented by Wigdor LLP The 72-year-old financier was worth $13.6 billion at the time of writing, according to Forbes' Real Time Billionaires list. He is pursuing a malicious prosecution lawsuit against Wigdor LLP in New York County Supreme Court. The firm represented Pierson as well as two other accusers. In a complaint filed last August, Black asserted that the firm failed to investigate 'false, life-ruining' allegations before representing the women. The suit asserts that the firm's business model is based on threatening 'to sue defendants with scandalous allegations that can be avoided only at the cost of a large settlement, of which Wigdor takes a substantial cut.' One of his accusers, model and former girlfriend Guzel Ganieva, terminated Wigdor LLP's representation in March 2023, opting instead to represent herself. The firm petitioned a New York court to formally withdraw from the case. In a filing, Christensen said there had been an 'irrevocable breakdown of the attorney-client relationship' that justified the firm's withdrawal. Two months later, a New York state judge dismissed the case altogether, citing the $9.5 million Ganieva received from Black under a nondisclosure agreement after their relationship ended. Former girlfriend Guzel Ganieva (left) accused Black of rape, but that lawsuit was dismissed by a New York state judge in 2023 due to Ganieva receiving $9.5 million from Black under a nondisclosure agreement Christensen confirmed that a suit brought against Black by a woman with Down syndrome is ongoing. She alleges that Epstein introduced her to the 72-year-old, who penetrated her with sex toys until she bled Black reached a $62.5 million cash settlement with the U.S. Virgin Islands government in 2023 to avoid any current and future legal claims related to Epstein (pictured: facilities at Little St. James Island, one of Epstein's properties) Christensen confirmed to DailyMail.com that a case involving another accuser named only as Jane Doe is ongoing. Doe, who is now in her late 30s, was born with mosaic Down syndrome and has a 'developmental age' of around 12, the lawsuit states. The woman said she was lured into Epstein's circle through a summer program for cheerleaders. She began giving him naked massages before she was 'shipped off' to Black. In a complaint filed in Manhattan federal court, the woman said that as she was preparing to give Black a massage, the financier held her down and penetrated her with 'adult toys,' drawing blood. Epstein later found her in tears, but refused to let her see a doctor and said Maxwell would take care of her instead. Doe seeks damages for Black's alleged violation of a New York City law against gender-motivated violence. Black's lawyer, Susan Estrich with Estrich Golden, labelled Doe's claims 'vicious and defamatory lies, masquerading as allegations.' She said the accusations were 'intentionally manufactured by the Wigdor law firm as part of the firms vendetta against Mr. Black for vigorously and successfully defending himself over the past two years.' 'These allegations - about an incident that supposedly took place 20 years ago - are totally made up, entirely uncorroborated and, as pleaded, squarely violate the statute of limitations,' Estrich said. Black co-founded private equity firm Apollo in 1990. He departed in 2021, following a review by an outside law firm that found he had paid Epstein $158 million for tax and estate planning. Black also struck a $62.5 million cash settlement with the U.S. Virgin Islands in January 2023 to avoid being tied to an Epstein sex trafficking investigation. According to court documents, Black agreed to pay the government in exchange for release from any current and future legal claims related to Epstein, who had purchased the islands of Great St. James and Little St. James. $15 million of the payment would be funneled into a trust to fund counseling programs and mental health services. The late Queen would have been 'aghast' at Prince William's statement on the Israel/Gaza conflict, according to The Reaction, the Mail's must-not-miss talk show. In a new episode out today, Mail columnists Sarah Vine and Andrew Pierce questioned the timing of the Prince of Wales' words on events in the Middle East, which were released on Tuesday, the day before a debate and vote in the Commons. And the pair openly questioned if the 'impassioned' statement, calling for an end to the fighting in Gaza, was influenced by others, particularly the Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron. After the future king's extraordinary intervention - in which he talked of the 'terrible human cost' of a war that has seen 'too many killed', Mr Pierce said that he believes the late Queen would have been 'aghast at what he's done'. He said: 'It is no coincidence that Her Majesty The Queen, one of the most travelled heads of state ever, in her 70-year reign, never went to Israel. Because the Foreign Office wouldn't let her to go Israel because it was loaded with political symbolism and significance. The late Queen would have been 'aghast' at Prince William 's statement on the Israel/ Gaza conflict, according to The Reaction, the Mail's must-not-miss talk show. Pictured: Queen Elizabeth in June 2016 The Prince and Princess of Wales made a statement regarding the situation in the Middle East earlier this week. Pictured: Prince William at the BAFTAs on Sunday In a new episode out today, Mail columnists Sarah Vine and Andrew Pierce questioned the timing of the Prince of Wales' words on events in the Middle East 'And I think the Queen would be aghast at what he's done. 'Because do you remember she got involved in the Scottish independence referendum, all she said was on a walk about, 'I do hope people will think carefully before the way they vote'. 'But she didn't make a written statement, very dramatic on black backing, talking about the 'darkest hour' [as William's statement was], well that's Churchillian.' He then went on to question whether Lord Cameron, who has been 'pushing for a ceasefire', was involved in the statement released by Kensington Palace shortly before William arrived for a visit to the London headquarters of the Red Cross. Mr Pierce told the show: 'The government had to have signed this statement off. The Foreign Office would have been all over it. 'I smell Lord Cameron's influence in all of this. 'People tell me he is involved, there is a suggestion that rather than this coming from William, that it may have been from the Foreign Office. 'Has David Cameron put the future king up to this? If he has, he hasn't done him any great service in my view.' Prince William on Tuesday issued the royals' strongest statement yet on the Gaza conflict Mr Pierce questioned whether Lord Cameron, who has been 'pushing for a ceasefire', was involved in the statement released by Kensington Palace The comments came just days before Parliament vote on a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Pictured: A protest being held in Westminster tongiht Smoke rises during an Israeli ground operation in Khan Younis Asked if the Prime Minister or anyone else in Government asked the Prince of Wales to make the statement, the Prime Minister's Deputy Spokesperson told the Mail: 'As a matter of course we would never get into conversations with the Palace, so we can't provide guidance on that basis, but we welcome his comments which echo points that the PM has made and are important to make.' Speaking of the timing of the statement, coming on the eve of a Parliamentary debate, Ms Vine said: 'I would question the timing, because there's a vote tonight in the House of Commons on a ceasefire. 'And I'm sure it's not William's intention to influence the outcome of a parliamentary vote, because that really would be constitutionally quite tricky, but whoever is advising him might've wanted to point this out. Because that's how it could be construed. 'The one thing, the one thing the [future] monarch cannot be seen to be doing is trying to influence Parliament.' The Prince should not be 'quite so emotional about these things', Ms Vine added, stating that it's 'not really his role'. Mr Pierce agreed, but said 'at least in his statement the future king wisely avoided using the word ceasefire.' After the latest Royal saga, the pair turned to the controversial sacking of immigration watchdog David Neal after he this week raised concerns about national security to the Mail. Prince William, pictured at the British Red Cross HQ in London today, has released an impassioned statement in which he says 'too many' have been killed' in the Gaza conflict Prince William met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara during his visit to the country in 2018 The future King shook hands with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah in 2018 Mr Neal highlighted dangerous failures at London City Airport when he revealed how hundreds of 'high risk' flights were landing in the UK without proper passport checks. He was sacked from his role as Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration by Home Secretary James Cleverly, with a mandarin informing the watchdog via a Zoom call, on Tuesday. Speaking of Mr Cleverly's decision, Ms Vine said: 'I don't understand why he's been sacked. 'I don't understand why he [Cleverly] doesn't say 'thank you very much for bringing this to our attention, we will immediately tighten security at London City Airport'. Mr Pierce interjected: 'And there's another point here, Sarah, his title is independent watchdog. So how can a government minister sack an independent watchdog?' Ms Vine concluded: 'What we're seeing today is just petulance on the behalf of the Home Secretary because something has happened that he doesn't like and it has made him look bad.' 'Their Royal Highnesses hold all the victims, their families and their friends in their hearts and minds,' a spokesperson previously said on behalf of William and Kate, pictured William listens to Pascal Hundt, Senior Crisis Manager, International Committee of the Red Cross, dialling in on a video call from Gaza Later in the episode, Ms Vine said her 'allergic reaction' this week was to a story about an NHS trust saying that hormone-filled milk from trans women is just as good for babies as women's naturally occurring breastmilk. In disgust at the story, Ms Vine said: 'Actually just no. On any level. 'Can I just say it's so insulting to mothers because breastfeeding is quite a difficult, contentious issue. A lot of people can't do it, a lot of people struggle with it. 'It's the female identity that is being eroded here.' The Reaction, which sees our columnists and special guests share their insight and views on the biggest topics of the day - no matter how contentious, will be broadcast at 6pm every Wednesday on the Daily Mail's YouTube channel. The latest episode can be watched tonight at YouTube.com/DailyMail The House of Commons descended into chaos tonight as SNP and Tory MPs walked out of the chamber in a furious row over a vote on a Gaza ceasefire. In a protest prompted by the actions of Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle - who is now facing growing calls to quit - huge numbers of MPs deserted the Commons following angry exchanges. The row was sparked by Sir Lindsay having earlier sidestepped convention in a debate over the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza. The Speaker caused fury by selecting both a Labour amendment and a Government amendment to an SNP motion calling for an unqualified 'immediate ceasefire' in the Middle East. The move was seen as helpful to Sir Keir Starmer as the Labour leader looked to avoid another major Commons revolt by his MPs over his stance on the Israel-Hamas war. It prompted claims of a stitch-up between Sir Keir's team and the Speaker, while some even speculated about Sir Lindsay having faced threats from Labour if he didn't act. The House of Commons descended into chaos tonight as SNP and Tory MPs walked out of the chamber in a furious row over a vote on a Gaza ceasefire In a protest prompted by the actions of Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, huge numbers of MPs deserted the Commons following angry exchanges After a slew of points of order from Tory MPs and a furious SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn (pictured), both the SNP and Government benches staged their walkout A tearful-looking Sir Lindsay faced shouts of 'resign' when he later returned to the Commons to offer an apology for having sparked tonight's meltdown The chaos inside the Commons chamber took place at the same time as a large pro-Palestinian rally was held in Parliament Square The Government later abandoned its involvement in the Opposition Day debate and claimed Sir Lindsay had 'hijacked' proceedings. This left the SNP with the prospect of not getting a vote on their motion. Sir Lindsay was later absent from shambolic scenes in the Commons - prompting suggestions he had gone 'into hiding' - as MPs on all sides engaged in a parliamentary slanging match. After a slew of points of order from Tory MPs and a furious SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, both the SNP and Government benches staged their walkout. The three key votes that plunged the Commons into chaos SNP - 'immediate ceasefire' The nationalists called for an unconditional 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza and release of all Israeli hostages taken by Hamas. Unlike Labour's amendment, the motion also called for an end to the 'collective punishment of the Palestinian people'. It was not voted on as the Labour amendment successfully passed. Labour - 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' Labour's amendment used softer language around Israel's military action in Gaza, stating they 'cannot be expected to cease fighting if Hamas continues with violence'. It also removed references to 'collective punishment' from the SNP's original motion. Government - 'immediate humanitarian pauses' The Government amendment, laid down late on Tuesday night, reflects the latest position outlined by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron. It calls for an immediate 'pause' in the fighting to allow aid into Gaza and release Israeli hostages. This would set up the conditions for a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire' which ensures 'security and justice for both Israelis and Palestinians' in a two-state solution. The amendment was not voted on after the Government withdrew it in protest to the speaker tabling Labour's amendment. Advertisement MPs then voted on whether the Commons should sit in private for the first time since 2001 as they put pressure on Sir Lindsay to return to the chamber. This evening's mayhem - in scenes not seen since the Brexit battles at Westminster - has raised thoughts among MPs of an effort to oust Sir Lindsay as Speaker in a plot some are dubbing 'Just Stop Hoyle'. An early day motion tabled by senior Tory William Wragg expressing no confidence in the Speaker has already attracted support from 33 Conservative and SNP MPs. One veteran Tory MP told MailOnline the situation was 'absolutely disastrous'. 'I think he may well be in terminal difficulty,' they said of Sir Lindsay's position. 'He was warned by his clerks, who wrote to confirm the advice. He ignored the advice. It was the biggest cock-up I have ever seen since I have been an MP.' The MP added: 'The rumour is that he was threatened by the Labour Party. If he buckled to that sort of threat, he doesn't deserve to be Speaker.' The chaos inside the Commons chamber took place at the same time as a large pro-Palestinian rally was held in Parliament Square. A tearful-looking Sir Lindsay faced shouts of 'resign' when he later returned to the Commons to offer an apology for having sparked tonight's meltdown. He told MPs: 'I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologise for how it's ended up. 'I do take responsibility for my actions, and that's why I want to meet with the key players who have been involved.' The Speaker attempted to explain that he intended to allow the House 'the widest range of propositions on which to express a view'. But he angrily denied accusations he had met with Sir Keir's chief of staff Sue Gray in a bid to stitch up the debate in Labour's favour. One insider said Labour had warned him their MPs would be at increased risk of attack by pro-Palestine campaigners if they could not vote for their own ceasefire motion. 'He was told he would have blood on his hands if he didn't allow this vote,' the source said. In his statement on Wednesday, the Speaker acknowledged he was 'very, very concerned about the security of all MPs'. But former Tory cabinet minister Kit Malthouse said he would have 'crossed a Rubicon' if he had allowed threats and intimidation from outside to influence the proceedings of the Commons. Sir Keir wanted to prevent his MPs from backing the SNP motion demanding an unqualified 'immediate ceasefire' by tabling his own amendment. The Labour amendment caveated that Hamas terrorists must hand back hostages and lay down weapons first. Sir Lindsay's ploy to allow all three main parties - the Tories, Labour and SNP - to put forward their own position was undone when the Government boycotted proceedings. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt claimed Sir Lindsay had 'hijacked' the debate and 'undermined the confidence' of the House in its long-standing rules. Ms Mordaunt also suggested the Speaker's decision may have put MPs at greater risk, warning that he had 'raised temperatures...on an issue where feelings are already running high'. She accused the Speaker of having taken action 'against the longstanding and established processes and procedures of this House', adding: 'For that reason the Government will play no further part in the decision this House takes on today's proceedings.' That move prompted tonight's chaos in the Commons after the SNP were informed the Government's action meant they were unlikely to get a vote on their original motion. Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt claimed Sir Lindsay had 'hijacked' the debate and 'undermined the confidence' of the House in its long-standing rules Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer had looked to avoid another major Commons revolt by his MPs over his stance on the Israel-Hamas war This evening's mayhem - in scenes not seen since the Brexit battles at Westminster - has raised thoughts among MPs of an effort to oust Sir Lindsay as Speaker An early day motion tabled by senior Tory William Wragg expressing no confidence in the Speaker has already attracted support from 33 Conservative and SNP MPs Mr Flynn demanded to know why Sir Lindsay was not in his chair, and asked how he could be brought to the House to explain why the SNP's views are 'irrelevant to him'. After his request for the Commons to be suspended were denied by Deputy Speaker Dame Rosie Winterton - who was filling in for the absent Sir Lindsay - SNP MPs and Tory MPs then staged their walkout. MPs later voted 212 to 20, majority 192, to reject a proposal for Commons to sit in private. Labour's amendment pushing for an 'immediate humanitarian ceasefire' in Gaza - with caveats - was then approved by the Commons without a vote. Dame Rosie was also forced to deny suggestions that Sir Lindsay was influenced by threats from senior Labour figures to accept the party's amendment. Tory MP Philip Davies referred to claims that the Speaker had been 'left in no doubt that Labour would bring him down after the general election unless he called Labour's Gaza amendment'. But Dame Rosie replied: 'That tweet is wrong and the statement is incorrect.' Labour's defence spokesman John Healey insisted the party had put 'no pressure on the Speaker', and said he had been right to allow the widest possible debate on Gaza. But even some Labour MPs questioned his judgment. Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell told Sky News: 'I wish he hadn't taken this decision. Confidence in him has been significantly undermined and I speak as a friend of his.' Labour has been riven by divisions over Gaza since the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7. While Sir Keir has argued for Israel's right to self-defence, dozens of his MPs have been calling for Israel to end the war. Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said Sir Lindsay's decision had created a 'constitutional crisis'. But fellow grandee Sir Charles Walker predicted that Sir Lindsay would survive, adding: 'This furore will blow over. 'When the House of Commons comes to its senses it will realise very quickly that the removal of the Speaker will only lead to metaphorical champagne corks popping in Tehran.' The SNP, which ended up being unable to vote on its own motion calling for an 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza, reacted with fury. The party's Pete Wishart said the ruling was 'ridiculous', adding: '(Sir Lindsay) has totally lost it and this will come back to haunt him.' Charities involved in efforts to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid Israel's ongoing offensive reacted with fury to the behaviour of MPs tonight. Halima Begum, chief executive of the ActionAid UK charity, said: 'We are extremely disappointed to see the utter paralysis in Parliament this evening. 'Democracy is a precious commodity and should be treated as such. 'A great disservice has been done to the British people, who expected their political parties and elected representatives to conduct a meaningful debate concerning an issue on which depends the lives of over a hundred Israeli hostages, and hundreds of thousands of Gazans suffering one of the most acute humanitarian crises we have seen in recent times.' Oxfam's Katy Chakrabortty said: 'It is a disgrace that there has been so much playground politics in Parliament this evening, while so many lives are at stake. 'The people of Gaza can't wait for our politicians to stop squabbling. Much of the country lies in ruins and Rafah, where many Palestinian families have been forced to flee, is under threat of a full-scale military offensive.' Charities involved in efforts to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid Israel's ongoing offensive reacted with fury to the behaviour of MPs tonight Dr Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK, branded the Commons chaos as 'disgraceful' and 'shameful', adding: 'Today we have seen British politics at its worst' Dr Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the UK, told LBC radio the Commons chaos was 'disgraceful' and 'shameful', adding: 'Today we have seen British politics at its worst.' 'Politicians are trying to save themselves, rather than saving an entire nation from genocide,' he continued. Tonight's drama came after a previous vote on a call for a Gaza ceasefire tabled by the SNP last November resulted in 10 Labour frontbenchers resigning in order to support the demand. Sir Keir's efforts to avoid a repeat of that revolt this evening were thrown into doubt earlier when the Government put down its own change to the latest SNP motion. Convention suggested Sir Lindsay would only choose the Government amendment to put to a vote this afternoon. That would have raised the prospect of Sir Keir seeing many Labour MPs join the SNP in the division lobbies even if he ordered them to abstain - as many have been vocal in urging an immediate ceasefire. However, Sir Lindsay sparked uproar in the chamber when he confirmed he was selecting both the Labour amendment and the Government one - over the advice of his own clerks. The SNP cried foul saying that it deprived them of a 'clean' vote on their own Opposition Day motion. And one senior Conservative was heard shouting, 'Bring back Bercow!' - a reference to Tory complaints that former Speaker John Bercow bent procedures to help opponents of Brexit. There were also bitter accusations that both Labour and the other parties had threatened to unseat the Speaker as they tried to get their own way. But Sir Lindsay said there was a precedent, adding that he thought the operation of standing orders in the House was outdated. There were also bitter accusations that both Labour and the other parties had threatened to unseat the Speaker as they tried to get their own way. 'This is a highly sensitive subject on which feelings are running high, in the House, in the nation, and throughout the world. I think it is important on this occasion that the House is able to consider the widest possible range of options,' Sir Lindsay said. Clerk of the House of Commons Tom Goldsmith warned Sir Lindsay in a letter that 'long-established conventions are not being followed in this case' To outcry from MPs he added: 'I have therefore decided to select the amendments both in the name of the Prime Minister and in the name of the Leader of the Opposition.' Clerk of the House of Commons Tom Goldsmith warned Sir Lindsay in a letter that 'long-established conventions are not being followed in this case'. There were rumours of a meeting between Sir Lindsay and Sir Keir before the session started this afternoon. In a round of interviews this morning, shadow cabinet member Lisa Nandy said Labour was making representations to Sir Lindsay about what amendments would be selected. As it was an Opposition Day debate, the Government was simply able to ignore the result. Ms Nandy stressed that there were 'significant differences' between Labour's wording and the SNP's. 'We are clear that any ceasefire by definition must be two-sided, that Israel can't be expected to lay down its weapons if Hamas doesn't observe the terms of that ceasefire,' she said. The Government's text only called for an 'immediate humanitarian pause' followed by a 'permanent sustainable ceasefire'. Sir Lindsay was last night seeking crisis talks with all the main parties in a bid to shore up his position. Tesco has revised the way it displays Clubcard Prices in its supermarkets after a consumer rights investigation claimed the chain could have been breaking the law. The supermarket now says Clubcard Price labels will show the 'unit price' - the price per volume or weight, such as per 100g - so they can be compared with other, non-Clubcard Price products. The move came after Which? claimed that Tesco could have been breaking the law by not displaying the unit price on the blue and yellow shelf labels - because it would not be immediately apparent to shoppers if they were getting the best deal. Tesco initially fired back at the consumer rights group, calling its claims 'ill-founded' - but this week CEO Jason Tarry said it has been planning to make the changes 'for some time' and that the revised labels will roll out across stores in the coming weeks. The scandal came about in June last year, four years after Tesco launched the Clubcard Prices scheme - promising loyalty card holders price-slashing deals so long as they scanned their card at the checkout. Tesco says it will revise its Clubcard Prices labels so they display the unit prices of products - enabling shoppers to compare prices The Clubcard Prices scheme launched in 2019 and cuts prices on products for anyone who scans a Clubcard loyalty card at the checkout But consumer rights group Which? found that some Clubcard Prices were not the best deal - such as this 3.50 bottle of ketchup that was more expensive per 100g than a larger 3.99 one This MailOnline graphic illustrates the maths the Clubcard Price label doesn't show - revealing customers are actually better off buying the larger bottle at a non-discounted price Until now, Clubcard Price labels have not shown the unit price by volume or weight - an omission Which? claimed could have been breaking consumer laws Tesco CEO Jason Tarry said the supermarket had been planning to update the labels 'for some time' and that the changes will roll out in the coming weeks But the Which? investigation found that, in some cases, Clubcard Prices - promoted as having 'the power to lower prices' were not actually the best available deal on the supermarket's shelves. In one example, a 700g bottle of Heinz tomato ketchup was reduced from 3.90 to 3.50 with a Clubcard, the equivalent of 50p per 100g of product - but a larger 910g bottle was 3.99, or 43.8p per 100g. But the 3.50 Clubcard Price label did not show that the 'offer' made to loyalty card holders was actually a worse deal overall. EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Now Lidl AND Tesco go to war against Aldi as budget supermarket plots to open new stores on rival turfs Advertisement And even though some Clubcard Prices actually were the better price - such as a six-pack of Walkers crisps for 1.50 with the loyalty card, undercutting a 12-pack for 3.25 - Which? claimed not showing the unit price was a 'misleading omission'. Responding to Tesco's announcement, Which?'s director of policy and advocacy, Rocio Concha said prices needed to be clear at a time when shoppers were more cash-strapped than ever. She said: 'The lack of unit pricing on Tesco's Clubcard offers was a glaring omission and we warned that this approach could be breaking the law last summer, so it's good to see the nation's largest supermarket stepping up to do the right thing by making this important change. 'We look forward to seeing this rolled out quickly across all stores and online so shoppers can benefit as soon as possible.' In a statement issued this week, Tesco boss Jason Tarry said Clubcard Prices 'unlocked the best value' at the supermarket, and claimed Clubcard holders saved as much as 390 a year by using their card at the tills. Mr Tarry added: 'If you are in store you will now start to see that the way that we display our Clubcard Prices will not only show the total price, but also the unit price of the product (by volume or weight), to allow a direct comparison of the price per unit between the Clubcard Prices offer and the price of alternative products. 'This is something that we have been planning to do for some time, and I am really pleased that we are ready to make the change. 'Over the coming weeks these changes will appear in all our stores, as our colleagues update millions of price labels on the shelf edge. We will also be adding these unit prices to our Clubcard Prices deals online.' Clubcard Prices are easily spotted on Tesco supermarket shelves thanks to their bold blue and yellow labels Clubcard Prices were promoted as giving shoppers 'the power to lower prices' - but Which? claimed consumers weren't always getting the best deal Which? challenged Tesco on the practice of not showing the unit prices on the basis that it could be 'misleading' shoppers into choosing a poorer deal Which?'s investigation last summer examined other loyalty-based discounting schemes such as Nectar Prices, the equivalent in Sainsbury's for Nectar card holders. However, the Nectar scheme labels do show unit pricing - allowing consumers to see at a glance whether they are getting the best deal. It had reported Tesco to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) for what it called the 'misleading practice' of not including unit prices on the Clubcard Price tags. Which? said last summer of the lack of unit pricing: 'This is a prime example of the kind of confusing pricing practice the Competition and Markets Authority must target with its ongoing review of grocery unit pricing, and which the government must look to eradicate following its conclusion. 'Which? believes that by omitting the unit price information on Clubcard offers, Tesco is leaving its customers at risk of spending more on their food shop because they dont have all the information they need to make an informed choice. 'At a time when there is a cost of food crisis and many people are finding it hard to feed their loved ones, such an omission could be making things worse for people already struggling.' The CMA has been examining how unit prices are used in supermarkets in recent months, over concerns that products' unit prices are being labelled inconsistently, incorrectly or illegibly on shelves. In one example, the CMA said it noted that one supermarket was labelling some boxes of tea bags with a unit price per tea bag, and others per 100g - stopping shoppers from making like-for-like comparisons. Preliminary findings from its investigation - which also included a probe into unit prices for promotional prices such as Clubcard Prices - were published in July. They included a recommendation for supermarkets to give consumers the unit pricing labelling they needed to make 'meaningful comparisons, particularly for products on promotion'. The non-binding recommendation came ahead of a formal submission to the Price Marking Order (PMO), the legislation that governs how price labels should be displayed in British shops. The UK Government set out its proposed alterations to the PMO on January 24; among the proposed amendments is a requirement for supermarkets to display unit prices on all promotional items. It noted in its proposals that legislation on unit pricing has 'not remained in step with current business practices' such as the use of loyalty-based discounting schemes. The changes will not affect small stores such as local corner shops, which do not have a requirement to display unit prices. Lawyers representing the father of school shooter Ethan Crumbley has asked a court to change the venue of his trial after his estranged wife Jennifer was found guilty of manslaughter. James Crumbley, 47, is accused of making a gun accessible to his son Ethan Crumbley and failing to get mental health care for his son. The 15-year-old killed four students and wounded more during a mass shooting at Oxford High School in 2021. In Oakland County Court on Wednesday, Judge Cheryl Matthews heard arguments from his defense lawyers who believe he cannot get a fair trial in the county and whether two students wounded in the attack should be able to testify against him. Attorney Mariell Lehman argued that the student's testimony is irrelevant and unnecessary, given a teacher and assistant principal will testify. James Crumbley enters the courtroom during his motion hearing at Oakland County Courthouse, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Pontiac, Michigan Crumbley, 47, is accused of making a gun accessible to his son Ethan Crumbley and failing to get mental health care for his son Lehman argued: 'While I cant imagine what those students went through their testimony is not relevant in the case of James Crumbley. 'He's not charged with shooting or injuring anyone. The primary purpose of the testimony is to enflame the emotions of the jury.' Assistant Prosecutor Marc Keast disagreed, and said that the prosecution may not actually call on the students. He said they may need them should other witnesses become unavailable for any number of reasons. Defense attorneys have been pushing for a venue change, with Lehman saying in a court filing last week that: 'They have been clearly convicted in the court of public opinion.' Jury selection in the father's trial is scheduled for March 5. It's unusual in Michigan to change the location of a trial or to bring in jurors from another county. Hundreds of people will be summoned to the courthouse as part of the jury selection process. It took about two days to pick a jury for Jennifer Crumbley's trial. Jennifer Crumbley was found guilty on February 6 of involuntary manslaughter, making her the first parent in the US to be held responsible for a child carrying out a mass school attack. Prosecutors said that Jennifer Crumbley was more interested in pursuing an extramarital affair with a local fireman that caring for her son. Following the killings, she texted her lover Brian Meloche that the shooting "could have been prevented" and that the school should not have allowed him to return to class. Ethan Crumbley pleaded guilty to his crimes and is currently serving life in prison without the possibility of parole, after murdering four classmates in the Oxford High School shooting in 2021 Justin Shilling, 17, (left) and Tate Myre, 16, (right) were two of four students killed in the senseless shooting at Oxford High School in Michigan Madisyn Baldwin, 17, (left) and Hana St Juliana, 14, (right) died in the 2021 shooting rampage at Oxford High School in suburban Detroit James Crumbley is charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting, which claimed the lives of Justin Shilling, Madisyn Baldwin, Tate Myre and Hana St. Juliana, and injured seven others. On the morning of November 30, 2021, school staff members were concerned about a violent drawing of a gun, bullet, and wounded man, accompanied by desperate phrases, on Ethan Crumbley's math assignment. His parents were called to the school for a meeting, but they didn't take the boy home. A few hours later, Ethan pulled a handgun from his backpack and shot 10 students and a teacher. No one had checked the backpack. The gun was the Sig Sauer 9mm his father had purchased with him just four days earlier. His mother had taken her son to a shooting range that same weekend. Following the shooting, a search of the teen's home found his room messy, with with paper targets from a shooting range on his wall. An empty bottle of whiskey was on a table beside his bed. At the time of the attack he was six years under America's legal drinking age. The safe used to house his Sig Sauer handgun was empty on his parents' bed. Jennifer Crumbley (right, with her attorney Shannon Smith) looked stunned as the jury read its guilty verdict, as she became the first parent to ever be convicted over their child's school shooting Crumbley's parents, James and Jennifer were both charged in connection with the shooting There were two other guns in a separate safe that could be unlocked with the code 0-0-0. During the trial of Jennifer Crumbley, the court heard that she was more interested in an extramarital affair, her horses and going for nights out on the town, than spending time with her son. Crumbley's secret lover, local fire captain Brian Meloche, claimed she wanted to meet up the morning of the shooting, and said they had been meeting regularly in a parking lot across from her work. Crumbley told her lover that she had 'failed miserably' as a parent after her son was arrested for the murders. Her son Ethan addressed a packed court room after he was sentenced to life in prison. He said: 'What I did. My actions were because of what I chose to do. I could not stop myself, I do not diminish any ability to anyone that could have stopped me. Jurors at the involuntary manslaughter trial of Jennifer Crumbley were shown disturbing drawings by her mass shooter son Chilling diary entries also written by Crumbley include drawings of a gun being held to the head of a girl 'They did not know and I did not tell them what I planned to do so they are not at fault for what I done. 'I am a really bad person. I've done terrible things no one should ever do, I have lied. I've hurt many people, that's what I have done. 'Whatever sentence it is I do plan to be better. I will change, it may not show it now but I am trying. 'All I want is for the people I hurt to just have a final sense of culpability that justice has been served in any capacity. 'Any sentence they ask for I ask that you do impose it on me, I want them to be happy, to feel secure. I do not want them to worry another day. I am really sorry. I cannot give it a back.' In a journal, the shooter wrote about his desire to watch students suffer and the likelihood that he would spend his life in prison. He made a video on the eve of the shooting, declaring what he would do the next day. Jennifer Crumbley is set to be sentenced on April 9 and could face a sentence of up to 60 years in state prison. President Joe Biden Wednesday said he would never stop fighting for hardworking Americans as he put the spotlight on his debt cancellation efforts and ramps up his reelection campaign. He slammed MAGA Republicans and said even the Supreme Court could not stop him for helping hundreds of thousands of people saddled with years of debt. And he said he was not worried about further court challenges to his massive forgiveness program. It came hours after officials said they were automatically canceling federal student loans for nearly 153,000 borrowers as part of a faster repayment plan. It adds up to another $1.2 billion of $138 billion canceled so far. 'Folks, I'm happy to have been able to forgive these loans because when we relieve Americans of their student debt, they're free to chase their dreams,' he told a small audience in front of the bookshelves at the Julian Dixon Library in Culver City. President Joe Biden Wednesday said he would never stop fighting for hardworking Americans as he put the spotlight on his debt cancellation efforts as he ramps up his reelection campaign Protesters gathered outside the Supreme Court as the court blocked President Biden's previous student loan relief plan last June The administration sent out emails to some of the borrowers who will benefit from what the White House has nicknamed its SAVE program. To qualify, they must have been making repayments for at least ten years after taking out loans of less than $12,000 for college. The cancellations were originally due to start in July, but the administration says it has been able to begin six months early. More than 7.5 million people have enrolled in the plan. It represents a workaround after the Supreme Court last year struck down a mass debt cancellation plan. Biden expressed his frustration with opponents who tried to derail his efforts. 'My Republican friends in Congress, elected officials and special interest stepped in and sued us and the Supreme Court blocked it, blocked it,' he said. 'But that didn't stop me.' Biden said they were wrong to think it was just about the 800,000 people who had already had loans forgiven. Biden made an unannounced stop at CJ's Cafe In Baldwin Hills on Wednesday before continuing to Culver City for his speech at the library Biden, with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, posed for selfies with customers and staff 'This is kind of relief can be life changing for individuals and for their families. and it's good for the economy as a whole,' he said. 'By freeing millions of Americans from the crushing debt of student loan programmes, it means they can finally get on with their lives. 'Instead of getting their lives being put on hold, they can think about buying a house or starting a family.' After he finished his speech he was asked whether he was worried courts would try to block his SAVE program. 'I dont have a worry at all,' he said. Biden made the announcement during a three-day campaign fundraising trip through California. Before his speech he stopped by C.J.'s Cafe, a Mexican restaurant, where he shook hands and posed for selfies with supporters. He ignored a shouted question about whether he needed a strong State of the Union speech to win re-election. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass answered for him. 'He's going to win reelection,' anyway,' she said, to cheers of support. His first event on Tuesday night was hit by COVID-19. Two hosts were forced to stay away after falling ill or testing positive just before the president arrived in Los Angeles. But he used the occasion to highlight his efforts to help middle-class Americans and to warn that Donald Trump would introduce a nationwide abortion ban if he won November's election. Instead, he promised to 'finish the job' if supporters helped power him to victory. The trip is his third visit to California in a little more than two months for political events. Hours before he boarded Air Force One, his campaign and the Democratic Nation announced that they had collected $42 million in contributions during January from 422,000 donors. And they said they had $130 million cash on handthe highest total ever amassed at this stage in the cycle. The Biden campaign played up the importance of small donations, saying that 97 percent of its three million contributions were foe less than $200 a time. Senior communications adviser TJ Ducklo said: 'This haul will go directly to reaching the voters who will decide this election.' TV soaps could be made 'entirely' by generative artificial intelligence in just three to five years' time, a top director has said. James Hawes, whose hits include Slow Horses and Anthony Hopkins film One Life, revealed he had investigated how long before a show like axed BBC1 soap Doctors could be produced by AI. He said the 'best guess' was it would be 'between three to five years' before someone could ask AI to 'create me a scene in an ER room' with a Doctor 'flirting' with a woman, while someone is 'dying on the table'. Mr Hawes said he came to this conclusion after speaking with different parts of the industry including visual effects experts and lawyers at American unions. He warned he had seen evidence which made him think changes were coming 'dramatically and very soon', adding the 'genie is out of the bottle' and programme-makers would have to live with this. Director James Hawes, hits include Slow Horses and Anthony Hopkins film One Life The director revealed he had investigated how long before a show like axed BBC1 soap Doctors (pictured) could be produced by AI His comments come after actors have previously warned that the technology risked making them obsolete, with the threat of AI being a part of the US actors and writers strike that took place last year. Lord of the Rings star Andy Serkis last year told Sky News 'you can put anyone in any situation, saying anything, and that is risky for all of us'. AI was reportedly used to make Harrison Ford look younger in the recent Indiana Jones film, while ITV's Deep Fake Neighbour Wars - used controversial deep fake technology to turn impressionists into celebrities. Vice-chairman of Directors UK, Mr Hawes told MPs on the culture, media and sport committee he had looked at how long it be before a programme like Doctors could be made 'entirely by generative AI'. AI was reportedly used to make Harrison Ford look younger in the recent Indiana Jones film - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny ITV's Deep Fake Neighbour Wars (pictured) - used controversial deep fake technology to turn impressionists into celebrities He told them: 'The best guess is between three to five years, somebody (will) be able to say 'create a scene in an ER room where a doctor comes in, he's having an affair with a woman so they're flirting, and somebody's dying on the table' and it will start to create it and you will build those and it will be generative AI.' He added: 'It may not be as polished as we've been used to but that's how close we're getting and I found that hard to believe, for all the creatives involved.' He singled out the launch of a new Open AI programme which can digitally create scenes that are pretty close to being 'live action perfect'. Mr Hawes said: 'I think there are all parts of storytelling and British storytelling that can be fuelled and enabled by this, but we have to protect the rights holders.' At least 30 Venezuelans are feared dead after an unsanctioned 114-feet-deep gold mine collapsed, trapping over 100 men inside. The wall of the open illegal gold mine, named Bulla Loca, collapsed on Tuesday, sparking a frantic rescue effort in the remote town of La Paragua, near the Venezuelan Amazon in Bolivar state. Dozens of miners remain trapped as of Wednesday, with rescue teams dispatched to the remote area, mayor Yorgi Arciniega told told CNN en Espanol. Arciniega said late Tuesday that he planned to take 'some 30 caskets' to a community near the mine, indicating that officials feared the death toll could rise into the dozens. Harrowing videos of the scene show workers without proper equipment trying to help dig the trapped workers out of the mine, which can only be reached by an hours-long boat ride. At least 30 Venezuelans are feared dead after an unsanctioned 114-feet-deep gold mine collapsed, trapping over 100 men inside Harrowing videos of the scene show workers without proper equipment trying to help dig the trapped workers out of the mine, which can only be reached by an hours-long boat ride Venezuelas socialist regime has increasingly relied on gold mined in Bolivar state to cover its expenditures and get around US sanctions on its oil industry, and has been accused of allowing criminal gangs to run free in order to profit from the mines. Local reports claim the Bulla Loca mine was opened last year and is under the control of several criminal gangs. Relatives of the miners gathered in La Paragua, the closest community to the mine, to ask the government to send aircraft to the remote location to rescue the injured and recover bodies. 'We are here waiting, please, for the government to support us with helicopters, planes, anything,' said Karina Rios, whose daughters father was trapped in the collapse. 'There are quite a few dead, there are people wounded. Why dont they give us support, where are they?' Rios said she is worried that bodies could quickly decompose because of the areas conditions. Criminal groups that run gold mines in the south of Venezuela have mutilated miners accused of stealing, extorted business owners and forced young children to work without security equipment as they tighten their grip on a region that is rich in minerals, Human Rights Watch said. Relatives mourn one of the miners that died after the collapse of an illegal mine near La Paragua, Bolivar state, on Wednesday Relatives of the miners gathered in La Paragua, the closest community to the mine, to ask the government to send aircraft to the remote location to rescue the injured and recover bodies 'The armed groups seem to operate largely with government acquiescence and in some cases government involvement', the report said. Human Rights Watch also said that some mines in Bolivar state are controlled by Colombian rebel groups now operating in Venezuela, including the National Liberation Army, which has an estimated 3,000 members and is still fighting to overthrow Colombias government. The group bombed a police academy in Bogota last year, killing 21 people. 'Poor Venezuelans driven to work in gold mining by the ongoing economic crisis and humanitarian emergency have become victims of macabre crimes by armed groups that control illegal gold mines in Southern Venezuela,' said Jose Miguel Vivanco, Americas director at Human Rights Watch. 'It is critical for gold buyers and refineries to ensure that any Venezuelan gold in their supply chains is not stained with the blood of Venezuelan victims.' In December, another mine in southern Venezuela collapsed, leaving 12 dead. Michael Tolbert, 44, of Flint was the first person charged under the state's new law requiring the safe storage of guns A Michigan man is facing life in prison after his two-year-old daughter shot herself in the face with a loaded revolver from next to his bed and is now in critical condition. Michael Tolbert, 44, of Flint pleaded not guilty after becoming the first person charged under the state's new law requiring safe storage of guns. The charges came after Tolbert rushed his two-year-old daughter to hospital on Valentine's Day because she shot herself in the face. Cops found 'blood and brain matter' in the bedroom where little Skye shot herself and Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said 'there were two firearms located on the bed.' Tolbert was arraigned Monday on nine felony charges including single counts of first-degree child abuse and violation of Michigan's gun storage law, said John Potbury, Genesee County's deputy chief assistant prosecuting attorney. Skye remained hospitalized Wednesday in critical condition from the February 14 shooting, Potbury said. Michael Tolbert, 44, of Flint, Michigan, is facing life in prison after his two-year-old daughter shot herself in the face with a loaded revolver from next to his bed and is now in critical condition The charges came after Tolbert rushed his two-year-old daughter Skye to hospital on Valentine's Day after she shot herself in the face The little girl shot herself the day after Michigan's new safe storage gun law took effect. A revolver and a semi-automatic pistol were found in the Michigan home. 'Both were unsecured and loaded with live ammunition,' Leyton said. 'There were no gun locks or safes inside of this front bedroom.' A single shot was fired from the revolver and a bullet hole was found in the ceiling, investigators determined. 'The bullet entered the right eye of the little girl and exited through the rear of her skull,' Leyton said. 'Doctors have said she will lose her right eye at best,' he said. Skye's aunt, LaDorothy Griggs, said she is the 'most happy, funny, beautiful, loving, and sweetest' and that she was 'fighting, so very hard for her life.' 'She is her mom's only child and as you can imagine the family is struggling to process this as our world has been thrown into a whirlwind,' the aunt wrote on a GoFundMe page. 'Life is going to be extremely different for Skye.' The little girl was placed into a medically induced coma in the hopes that her body can relax to reduce the swelling of the brain. A not guilty plea was entered Monday on behalf of Tolbert, who also faces one count each of felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, lying to a peace officer in a violent crime investigation and four counts of felony firearm, Potbury said. Tolbert was being held at the Genesee County Jail on bond amounts totaling $250,000, according online court records. Skye remained hospitalized Wednesday in critical condition from the February 14 shooting Volunteers work to clean up the memorial site, March 2, 2023, on campus at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Mich. New gun laws take effect Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in Michigan on the one-year anniversary of a shooting at Michigan State University that claimed the lives of three students and left five in critical condition He became the first person charged with violating the law, which took effect on Feb. 13, the one-year anniversary of when a gunman entered a classroom at Michigan State University, killing two students and leaving others critically wounded. The law took effect a week after a Michigan jury convicted a shooters mother of involuntary manslaughter, making her the first parent in the U.S. to be held responsible for a child carrying out a mass school shooting. Gun accessibility was an issue in the trial and investigators say Jennifer and James Crumbley failed to properly secure the gun. James Crumbley faces trial on the same charge next month in the 2021 shooting at Oxford High School that killed four students. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said at a news conference Tuesday announcing the charges against Tolbert that the law 'went into effect one week ago today. This incident occurred the very next day.' Flint police learned of the shooting after Tolbert took the girl to a hospital. Officers found two guns in the bedroom of the mans home: a revolver used in a the shooting and a semiautomatic pistol. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton (pictured) said 'There were two firearms located on the bed.' Both were unsecured and loaded. Police said they found no gun locks or safes in the bedroom. Tolberts next hearing is a Feb. 29 probable cause conference. A court employee said Tolbert would be assigned a public defender but directed calls to the countys chief public defender. A message was left Wednesday with the chief public defender by The Associated Press asking for the name of Tolberts attorney. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told hosts of 'The View' that Donald Trump considers himself 'Putin-esque' and lamented what he called 'pro-Putin' faction in the GOP. Jeffries made the comments when co-host Joy Behar asked him Wednesday: 'What do you think Putin has on him?' The query came days after Trump took heat from Democrats and some Republicans for encouraging Russia to do 'whatever the hell they want' to NATO allies who don't fund their defense commitments. Then, following the death of Alexei Navalny in an Arctic prison, Trump has repeatedly compared his own situation as the subject of criminal trials to the treatment of Russian opposition leader. 'That's a good question,' said Jeffries, who served as a House impeachment manager in 2020. 'I actually think that Donald Trump views himself as a Putin-esque dictatorial figure,' he said. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told 'The View' that Donald Trump 'views himself as a Putin-esque dictatorial figure' 'He said it. And we should believe him, that he wants to go down this road. And that's the problem that we're encountering with some of my Republican colleagues, that there is a growing pro-Putin faction in the Republican Party, and it's led by Donald Trump, some other outside figures like Tucker Carlson, and on the inside, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Jim Jordan.' Trump has repeatedly spoken favorably about the need to 'get along' with Russia, while repeatedly blasting the Russia probe during his term in office, mocking it as 'Russia, Russia, Russia.' On Tuesday, Special Counsel David Weiss in a court filing alleged that FBI informant Alexander Smirnov 'lied' about an alleged Biden family 'corruption scheme' and told prosecturs about his contact with foreign intelligence services 'including Russian intelligence agencies.' House Republicans are currently blockading a Senate-passed emergency supplemental appropriations passage to provide $60 billion to aid Ukraine. Trump compared his own legal woes to the treatment of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in a Russian prison north of the Arctic Circle Jeffries called President Biden the strongest candidate to take on Trump He was questioned on 'The View' about what Vladimir Putin 'has' on Trump, a line of inquiry that dates back to the Russia probe and discredited rumors of compromising material on the former president Navalny died in a Russian penal colony above the Artice Circle Putin is up for reelection next month. He has been consolidating power while overseeing the war in Ukraine and is accused of being responsible for Navalny's death House Speaker Mike Johnson, who met with Trump days ago in West Palm Beach, Florida, has said he won't bring the measure to the floor, citing dangers at the southern border. An earlier compromise proposal that blew up in the Senate contained border language and funding. Jeffries called for the House to take up the aid package, at a time when Ukrainian forces are reporting efforts to ration ammunition while retreating from a city in eastern Ukraine. 'What we're saying is that standing by Ukraine is standing by America's national security interests, and that's why it should be done in a bipartisan way, and we're calling upon the Republican leadership in our house to just put the bill on the floor for an up-or-down vote,' Jeffries said. Trump didn't express condolences in his initial statement on Navalny's death, and in a town hall appearance Tuesday compared his treatment to the Navalny, who returned to his home country after suffering a nerve agent attack overseas. Its a form of Navalny,' Trump said of the $355 million a judge ordered him to pay after his New York fraud trial. 'Its happening in our country too.' 'The narcissism is beyond belief,' interjected Behar during Jeffries' appearance. Behar posed the question a day after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi asked her own version of it, despite earlier theories of the Kremlin holding kompromat over Trump for his alleged conduct in a Moscow hotel room being discredited by a series of probes of the infamous Steele dossier. 'What does he have on Donald Trump that he have to constantly be catering to Putin? Telling Putin go into these countries, NATO countries,' Pelosi asked on MSNBC. 'What do you think? Were all wondering this question, Speaker Pelosi, what do you think Putin has on him?' asked former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki. 'I mean, it sure seems like something, as youve said a few times, given that he refuses to criticize him, that he seems to be a fanboy of him. Are you worried?' Jeffries also spoke his party's standard bearer, amid repeated concerns showing up in polls about Biden's age and stamina. Host Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former Mike Pence aide, asked if Biden had the 'vitality' to serve another four years or if it was time to 'pass the baton.' 'Joe Biden is definitely the strongest candidate to defeat Donald Trump,' said Jeffries. 'He's got an incredible track record of success. And we just have to connect that track record of success with his vision for the next four years,' he said. The chain restaurant will be demolished on February 26 and will be replaced with a Sheetz gas station The restaurant officially announced its end after it was shut down for years following the Covid-19 pandemic A West Virginia town has planned to hold a candlelit vigil for a local Hooters that is about to be demolished after it sat empty for years. The restaurant, located in Kanawha City, a neighborhood in Charleston, West Virginia, will get a proper farewell on Friday by its beloved customers who held on to hope for years that it would re-open. The chain closed its doors in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and has not opened them back up since. It is expected to be demolished on February 26 as a Sheetz gas station will take its place. 'It's finally official. We have all in one way shape or form been holding on to pure hope that someone would purchase the closed building down that once was the almighty H00ters and reopen it,' the bio on the Facebook event page said. 'Bring your candles and signs and lets let H00ters and the city know we will miss it tremendously. We will have Chicken wings with the traditional H00ters sauce on site and a limited amount of the GOAT SANDWICH "The Strip Cheese".' A candlelit vigil will be held for a Hooters in Kanawha City, West Virginia on Friday as the location has officially closed A Facebook event page was made for the vigil. The page announced that chicken wings with Hooters traditional sauce will be served along with the restaurant's famous 'strip cheese' sandwich At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the restaurant announced on their Facebook page that they 'decided to close until it is safe to do business again' At the start of the pandemic, the restaurant announced on their Facebook page that they 'decided to close until it is safe to do business again.' About a year after that initial post, an update on the status of their opening was announced. 'Hooters of Charleston has not [re-opened] as a result of the Covid-19. We have taken this time to make improvements to our restaurant and look forward to re-opening in the future,' the post said. A year after that, the restaurant took to Facebook again and said: 'There are no updates and we remain closed.' Signs promoting the new gas station that will take the place of the former Hooters location have been hung along a fence outside. Heartbroken customers flocked to social media and posted tributes to one of their favorite restaurants. Signs promoting the new gas station that will take the place of the former Hooters location have been hung along a fence outside Heartbroken customers flocked to social media and posted tributes to one of their favorite restaurants On Google, the Kanawha City location (pictured) has been marked as 'permanently closed' 'Goodnight sweet prince,' one person said next broken heart emojis. 'This is needed my heart will never be ok,' another said. Another wrote: 'Ima get a strip cheese sandwich 1 last time!!' 'We'll be having a candle lit memorial for all the memories made (though most can't be remembered) in that building. Please bring your own candle. Them s**** is expensive,' one said. 'Good times there back in the day,' said another. 'Theres no words to put for the Hoots family, I got to make and know when I worked there. Ups, and downs, laughs, and everything in between. It'll def be missed.' On Google, the Kanawha City location has been marked as 'permanently closed.' DailyMail.com contacted Hooters for comment but did not hear back in time for this report. The waitresses at the restaurant or 'Hooters Girls' are also well-known staples to the brand, and are often seen sporting tight white T-shirts and orange short-shorts On Google, the Kanawha City location has been marked as 'permanently closed' The restaurant is expected to be demolished on February 26 and a Sheetz gas station will take its place There are more than 420 Hooters locations in 42 US states and 29 countries across the world, according to the company's website. The restaurant chain started in 1983 in Clearwater, Florida, by six men 'with no restaurant experience.' The restaurant is known for their wings, burgers, beer and 'Strip Cheese' sandwich- chicken strips smothered in cheese, sandwiched between two pieces of bread. The waitresses at the restaurant or 'Hooters Girls' are also well-known staples to the brand, and are often seen sporting tight white T-shirts and orange short-shorts. Waitresses have gone on to be featured at NASCAR events, an exclusive Hooters pageant, commercials, billboards and swimsuit calendars, according to the website. Nikki Haley is garnering a lot of donations from people who also gave money to President Joe Biden's 2020 campaign. It comes as Republicans and MAGA stans claim that Democrats are backing Haley in an effort to sink former President Donald Trump despite his massive lead and three primary victories so far. There are just three days until the South Carolina Republican presidential primary and the latest poll from Suffolk University/USA Today reveals 63 percent of voters plan to cast their ballots for Trump compared to the 35 percent who prefer Haley. Many have called for Haley to drop out, claiming her long shot bid is over. But Haley held a state of the race speech on Tuesday where she said she is 'far from' dropping out and is in the 2024 race for the long haul. She has repeatedly said she will remain in the race until at least Super Tuesday on March 5. Nikki Haley is attracting donors in her presidential bid who also gave money to President Joe Biden in his 2020 presidential campaign Federal Election Commission filings released on Tuesday and analyzed by Politico reveal that more than 5,2000 donors who gave to Biden's 2020 campaign also gave to Haley's 2024 campaign. Those who gave to both presidential candidates included the 1,600 donors who gave more than $500,000 to Haley's efforts in just January. This only fuels speculation from Trump die-hards that Haley is being backed by the Democratic establishment and is being used to damage the former president's chances in the general election. The amount of donors who gave to Biden in 2020 and now Haley is notable since the former United Nations Ambassador is running in a primary to take on the president. It's also generally rare for donors to give money to two different parties in a political race meaning it's likely these donors abandoned Biden to change their financial backing to Haley. Despite the bloc of money coming from former Biden backers, Haley's fundraising base is still majority Republican. At least 5,200 people who donated to Biden's 2020 campaign have also given money to Haley Haley's campaign reported raising money from more than 55,000 'large-dollar' donors in the month of January, and 123,000 in total over the course of her entire campaign. These donors give at least $200 in total to a candidate. In January, Haley's campaign raised $11.5 million total and spent $13.1 million, according to the FEC report filed this week. Some question whether the campaign has the cash on hand for her to continue in the race. Haley's speech on Tuesday suggests they have enough money to make it another few weeks when 15 different states will vote in their primaries in what's known as Super Tuesday. He allegedly obtained information about the Biden family through ritzy events on super yachts and in hotels attended by Russian operatives Prosecutors state that he has 'extensive foreign ties' including to Russian intelligence operatives Special Counsel David Weiss charged Alexander Smirnov last week with lying about Biden after he became a presidential candidate Former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov who allegedly lied about Biden family bribes had connections to the head of Russian assassinations and obtained information during parties on mega yachts and in expensive hotels, according to shocking details in a new court filing. Last week, Special Counsel David Weiss charged him with lying about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden taking $5 million bribes from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma. Smirnov, 43, is accused of making a false statement and creating a false records for statements he made to the FBI in 2020 related to Hunter Biden's work on the board of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma Holdings. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 25 years in prison. He was released from federal detention on Tuesday evening - against the recommendation of DOJ - with certain conditions attached including a GPS monitor and handing over of his U.S. and Israeli passports. Prosecutors revealed Tuesday in a bombshell court filing that Smirnov had 'extensive contacts' with Russian intelligence operatives and obtained information on the Biden family through ritzy events on super yacht and in hotels. DailyMail.com breaks down some of the most shocking allegations against the FBI informant who was central to the GOP's impeachment probe into Joe Biden. Smirnov was 'in contact' with Russian operative in charge of global assassinations Former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov, left, walks out of his lawyer's office in downtown Las Vegas after being released from federal custody Tuesday, Feb. 20 Smirnov was released from federal custody with conditions on Tuesday evening In a shocking new filing Tuesday, prosecutors state that Smirnov, an Israeli citizen, has 'extensive foreign ties,' and his contacts with Russian intelligence operatives was 'not benign.' The filing went on to say the 'false information' Smirnov passed on to the FBI from the Russian intelligence operatives was not 'trivial' because it 'targeted the presumptive nominee of one of the two major political parties,' referring to Joe Biden. Prosecutors say his contacts were 'extremely recent' and he planned to meet with one official on his upcoming overseas travel. Specifically, 'Russian Official 1' was disclosed by Smirnov to be the son of a 'former high-ranking Russian government official,' who 'controls two groups of individuals tasked with carrying out assassination efforts in a third-party country.' In addition, the official has been described to have 'ties to a particular Russian intelligence service.' According to the filing, 'Russian Official 1 offered to stop the assassination efforts in exchange for certain things, including an agreement by "Country C" to stop targeting civilian family members of certain Russian officials living in Moscow.' The official allegedly provided him with 'specific information' about Russia's 'military resources for a winter attack in Country C.' They also told Smirnov about the Russian governments 'intentions for their war in Ukraine,' according to the indictment. 'Fake' secret recordings of Hunter in a hotel he never visited in Ukraine According to the filing, Smirnov wanted his Russian contacts to look into whether Businessperson 1 (Hunter Biden) was recorded in a hotel in Kyiv, Ukraine. The hotel, the Premier Palace, was allegedly 'wired' and 'under the control of Russians,' according to Smirnov. He claimed that Hunter went to the hotel 'many times' and that he had 'seen video footage of Businessperson 1 entering the Premier Palace Hotel.' However, investigators said they 'know that Smirnovs new story is false' because Hunter never traveled to Ukraine. 'Smirnov suggested that investigators check to see if Businessperson 1 made telephone calls from the Premier Palace Hotel since those calls would have been recorded by the Russians.' He claimed that he obtained to have learned this information from 'four different Russian officials. He also said that the Russians 'want Ukraine to assist in influencing the U.S. election,' and the tapes of Hunter at the Premier Palace Hotel is 'all they have.' The hotel, the Premier Palace, was allegedly 'wired' and 'under the control of Russians,' according to Smirnov The luxurious Premier Palace Hotel in Kyiv, Ukraine Smirnov claimed that Hunter went to the hotel 'many times' and that he had 'seen video footage of Businessperson 1 entering the Premier Palace Hotel' Special Counsel David Weiss has charged a former FBI informant with lying about President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden taking a $5million bribe from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma Another contact ran an Russian intelligence operation at a hotel 'club' Another, 'Russian Official 4,' apparently ran an intelligence operation at a 'club' located at a particular hotel, according to Smirnov. Smirnov told his FBI handler that the Russian Intelligence Service 'intercepted cell phone calls made by guests at the hotel.' 'The Russian Intelligence Service intercepted several calls placed by prominent U.S. persons the Russian government may use as "kompromat" in the 2024 election, depending on who the candidates will be,' he continued. Smirnov attended birthday party on mega yacht owned by Russian steel giant According to the filing, in 2023 he was 'invited to and planned to attend the birthday party of an identified individual in the Middle East, "Country A," which would include activities on a mega yacht owned by a high-ranking member of Russias largest steel and mining company.' Russian Official 1 was one of the individuals who also was expected to attend the birthday celebrations. Another individual described as a 'high-ranking member of a Russia state-owned defense conglomerate' was planning to partake in the festivities. Smirnov was 'invited to and planned to attend the birthday party on a mega yacht owned by a high-ranking member of Russias largest steel and mining company The filing went on to say the 'false information' Smirnov he provided was not 'trivial' because it 'targeted the presumptive nominee of one of the two major political parties,' referring to Joe Biden Smirnov has $6 million in cash and could escape the U.S. with the help of his foreign contacts Federal prosecutors had argued that Smirnov should be detained because his foreign contacts could 'resettle Smirnov outside the United States if he were released' and he has $6 million in 'liquid funds' - so he could live comfortably. 'The effects of Smirnov's false statements and fabricated information continue to be felt to this day. Now the personal stakes for Smirnov are even higher. His freedom is on the line,' prosecutors state. 'If he could not be trusted to report truthful information to his FBI Handler, he cannot be trusted to report truthful information to Pretrial Services.' The charges against Smirnov could undercut Republican accusations of bribery and claims Biden was benefitting financial from his son's business dealings in Ukraine. In the Tuesday afternoon filing, prosecutors detailed how Smirnov 'misrepresented' his assets by failing to disclose the millions he has on hand. He personally has access to more than $2.9 million and his 'wife/girlfriend' who pays his personal expenses out of her own account has the ability to get more than $3.8 million. And based on his 'weak ties' to the community in Las Vegas, he cannot reasonably be believed to remain in the area if he were to be released, prosecutors continued. 'Smirnovs anticipated travel from the United States, on Friday of last week, two days after his return, was for the purpose of meeting with Russian intelligence officials, among others,' prosecutors say. But a federal judge allowed Smirnov to be released Tuesday evening following the hearing. Smirnov did not answer questions from reporters as he departed from court. Smirnov's efforts to 'spread misinformation' about U.S. candidates continues Special Counsel David Weiss warned that the former informant's efforts to 'spread misinformation about a candidate of one of the two major parties in the United States' is still ongoing. He wanted the court to consider this fact and his previous conduct when 'evaluating his personal history and characteristics.' 'What this shows is that the misinformation he is spreading is not confined to 2020.' 'He is actively peddling new lies that could impact U.S. elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials in November,' prosecutors warn. Burisma phone call about expanding business to the U.S. According to court filings, Smirnov told the FBI in March 2017 he had a phone call with the owner of Burisma about the energy companies interest in acquiring a business in the United States. In his telling of the conversation, Smirnov told the FBI that someone referred to as 'Businessperson 1' was on the board of Burisma and was also the son of an individual referred to as 'Public Official 1.' Businessperson 1 is reported to be Hunter Biden and Public Official 1 is likely Joe Biden himself, although they are not named in the indictment. Prosecutors included pictures of business cards for 'Burisma Official 2' as well as officials '3 and 4' that Smirnov allegedly messaged his handler in March and September 2017. Prosecutors included pictures of business cards for 'Burisma Official 2' as well as officials '3 and 4' that Smirnov allegedly messaged his handler According to court documents, Smirnov told the FBI in March 2017 he had a phone call with the owner of Burisma about the energy companies interest in acquiring a business in the United States Hunter Biden was appointed to the board of directors for Burisma Holdings In 2020, Ukrainian authorities said they have intercepted a $6 million bribe attempt at dropping a criminal investigation against the head of the Burisma natural gas company where Joe Biden's son once held a board seat Three years later in June 2020, the indictment alleges Smirnov provided false information about Biden and Hunter after Biden became a presidential candidate. At that time, Smirnov reported two meetings around 2015 and/or 2016. It alleges Smirnov falsely claimed that during the meetings, executives associated with Burisma admitted to him that they hired Hunter to 'protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems.' He also claimed that they had specifically paid $5 million each to Biden and Hunter while Biden was still in office so that Hunter would 'take care of all those issues through his dad,' referring to a criminal investigation being conducted by the then-Ukrainian prosecutor general into Burisma. According to the indictment, the events Smirnov reported in 2020 were a fabrication. But Republicans have made the FD-1023 form in which Smirnov made the accusations central to their case to impeach the sitting president. House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., attempted to downplay the indictment saying the informant was only part of a complex money trail involving the Bidens and foreigners they are working to unravel. Smirnov is currently being held in a federal detention facility in Pahrump, Nevada The charges against Smirnov undercut the Republicans' accusations of bribery and claims Biden was benefitting financial from his son's business dealings in Ukraine The indictment states in fact, Smirnov had contact with executives from Burisma in 2017 after the end of the Obama-Biden Administration and after the then Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016 when Biden had 'no ability to influence U.S. policy and after the Ukrainian Prosecutor General had been fired in February 2016.' The indictment alleges Smirnov transformed his routine business contacts with Burisma in 2017 and later into bribery allegations against Biden after expressing bias against Biden and his presidential candidacy. When Smirnov was interviewed by the FBI in September 2023, the indictment alleges he repeated some of his false claims, changed his story with other claims, and 'promoted a new false narrative after he said he met with Russian officials.' House Republicans had seized on the FBI document alleging the $5 million bribe as part of their investigation into the president. The indictment undermines that key component in their case. Following the indictment, House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, D-MD, called on House Republicans to end their impeachment inquiry. 'In a detailed indictment, Special Counsel David Weisswho was appointed by former President Donald Trumphas demonstrated how key evidence at the heart of House Republicans' impeachment inquiry is based on a lie,' Rankin said in a statement. But House Oversight Republicans vowed to move forward with their investigation saying in a post on X they have reasons to do so that do not rely on the 'corrupt FBI or an informant.' Poll Should cannabis be legalised for personal use in Australia? Yes No Should cannabis be legalised for personal use in Australia? Yes 1710 votes No 689 votes Now share your opinion Legal cannabis could puff up the impact of chronic pain and blunt the strain on the criminal justice system, an inquiry heard, but doctors took a pot shot at the proposal, saying it could also risk exacerbating self-medication. Parliamentarians got into the weeds of Greens senator David Shoebridge's bill on Wednesday, which would allow for cannabis possession for personal use as well as set up a national agency to register strains and regulate the growing of plants. The young, particularly First Nations people, were over-policed as were poorer suburbs, Greg Barns SC from the Australian Lawyers Alliance said. Parliamentarians got into the weeds of Greens senator David Shoebridge's bill on Wednesday, which would allow for cannabis possession for personal use as well as set up a national agency to register strains and regulate the growing of plants. Most cannabis charges before the courts were for small quantities for personal use, which cost the system tens of millions of dollars a year, Mr Barns told an inquiry into the bill on Wednesday. Just because people don't go to jail 'doesn't mean there's not a punitive effect' as it still leads to legal costs and people losing their jobs or not being able to secure employment, he said. Liberal senator Paul Scarr questioned whether there could be an increase in mental health issues, particularly in young people, from side effects including anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis or long-term memory loss. Inadequate mental health services could be put under more strain if there was an increase in use, he contended. But the answer wasn't criminalisation, Mr Barns said. 'People don't present to mental health services, they don't present to hospitals and one of the reasons they don't is because they are scared,' he said. It also caused a lot less harm than alcohol, he added. Cannabis dispensary owner Malini Sietaram slammed laws for inhibiting access and the medical system for making prescriptions hard to come by and expensive to fill. 'We're almost driving people to the parking lot to get it illegally,' she said. The Australian Medical Association argued legalising cannabis across the board could lead to people self-medicating without presenting to medical professionals, leaving people 'unsure of the impact on them individually'. Legalisation would lead to young people seeing cannabis 'as a safe and normal thing to do, as opposed to it still being a significant psychoactive compound,' Dr Michael Bonning said. There had been increased reports of overdose and toxicity by minors, Chief Medical Advisor Professor Robyn Langham said. A Senate inquiry is looking into whether cannabis should be made legal for recreational use Cannabis use far exceeded the risks with users overwhelmingly using it irregularly and in small amounts, drug researcher Professor Nicole Lee said. Serious side effects in frequent users only happened to a small number of people and a well regulated market, including dosage, could further reduce risk with black market additives and highly potent strains increasing harm, she said. Low taxes on regulated marijuana to undercut the black market and measures to reduce youth use could also reduce risks, Professor Jenny Williams said. There had been more than 600 adverse reports of medical cannabis products since 2016, the most common being headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, dizziness and sleepiness, the Health Department's Nick Henderson said. The inquiry will report by May 31. In a newly unsealed complaint, Ebisawa is alleged to have been funneling the nuclear material to aid the nuclear weapons program in Iran A Japanese Yakuza leader has been charged with trafficking nuclear materials including uranium and plutonium after he was caught showing samples to DEA agents. Prosecutors say that Takeshi Ebisawa, 60, and a co-conspirator, agreed to buy nuclear materials from Burma in the hope that they would be used in the Iranian nuclear weapon program. Starting in 2020, Ebisawa is alleged to have told another person and a DEA source that he had access 'to a large quantity of nuclear materials'. According to the indictment, an associate of the undercover DEA agent in Thialand posed as an Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps general - with Ebisawa offering to supply him with plutonium. Ebisawa and co-defendant Somphop Singhasiri were previously charged in April 2022 with international narcotics trafficking and firearms offenses. Japanese citizen Takeshi Ebisawa, 57, pictured, unwittingly negotiated deals with an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent The pair will be arraigned on the Superseding Indictment before U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon tomorrow at noon. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: 'It is impossible to overstate the seriousness of the conduct alleged in today's Indictment. As alleged, Takeshi Ebisawa brazenly trafficked material containing uranium and weapons-grade plutonium from Burma to other countries. 'He allegedly did so while believing that the material was going to be used in the development of a nuclear weapons program, and the weapons-grade plutonium he trafficked, if produced in sufficient quantities, could have been used for that purpose. 'Even as he allegedly attempted to sell nuclear materials, Ebisawa also negotiated for the purchase of deadly weapons, including surface-to-air missiles. 'I want to thank the career prosecutors of my Office and our law enforcement partners for their unwavering commitment to protecting our national security by ensuring that the defendant will now face justice in an American court.' Officers also arrested Thailand citizens Suksan 'Bobby' Jullana, and Sompark Rukrasaranee. Singhasiri, and Rukrasaranee are both citizens of Thailand, while Jullanan is a citizen of Thailand and the US. Ebisawa, a known member of the Yakuza international crime syndicate, has been under DEA surveillance since 2019, with the agency calling him a 'big player' in weapons and drug trafficking. Ebisawa is alleged to have sent one of those people photographs showing a dark material with a Geiger counter, to test the radiation. Undercover agents went so far as to conduct meetings in Japan and Thailand, according to the complaint. Ebisawa allegedly had the codeword 'bamboo' in place of the word weapons, which were destined to ethnic-based groups Shan State Army and Karen National Union. And he is said to have used the code word 'cake' for drugs. Ebisawa believed he was getting large quantities of meth and heroin to sell on the streets of New York in return for the weapons given to the militias The indictment adds that Ebisawa sent a list of weapons that he was looking to purchase for the leader of an ethnic insurgent group in Burma, seen here Starting in 2020, Ebisawa is alleged to have told another person and a DEA source that he had access 'to a large quantity of nuclear materials' Ebisawa sent teh agent photopgraphs depicting a dark rocky material with a Geiger counter, which is used to measure radiation The indictment adds that Ebisawa sent a list of weapons that he was looking to purchase for the leader of an ethnic insurgent group in Burma. Three of the four arrested, including the Yakuza leader, believed the weapons had been stolen from US military bases in Afghanistan. According to the complaint, Singhasiri and Ebisawa planned to distribute upwards of 500 kilograms of meth and another 500 kilograms of heroin. During one exchange with the undercover DEA agent, Ebisawa sent him a letter offering to sell him 50 metric tons of uranium and thorium for $6.85 million. Ebisawa is charged with conspiracy to commit international trafficking of nuclear materials; trafficking of nuclear materials; narcotics importation conspiracy; conspiracy to acquire, transfer and possess surface-to-air missiles; conspiracy to possess firearms, including machine guns and destructive devices; and money laundering. He faces a maximum of possible sentence of life in prison. Singhasiri is charged with narcotics importation conspiracy, and conspiracy to possess firearms, including machine guns and destructive devices. He also faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison. Arizona prosecutors are refusing to send an accused prostitute killer to New York thanks to what they call the Manhattan District Attorney's lax treatment of 'violent criminals'. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell told reporters she's ordered her staff not to cooperate with plans to send Raad Noan Almansoori, 26, back to New York where he's wanted for the alleged murder of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38. 'Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by the Manhattan DA there, Alvin Bragg, I think it's safer to keep him here and keep him in custody so that he cannot be out doing this to individuals either in our state, county or anywhere in the United States' Mitchell said, according to NBC News. 'This is not aimed the New York Police Department at all. I know they did a hard job, they did a good job, but we will not be agreeing to extradition,' she added. 'I've instructed my extradition attorneys not to agree to that. We're going to keep him here.' Raad Almansoori, 26, was arrested by police in Arizona on a separate assault on another woman When staff discovered the body of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia on the morning of February 8, the 38-year-old was lying beneath a blanket and beside a broken iron, having checked in the day before Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell (pictured) told reporters she's ordered her staff not to cooperate with plans to send Raad Noan Almansoori, 26, back to New York where he's wanted for the alleged murder of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38 Mitchell said she didn't trust Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (pictured) to handle 'violent criminals' based on his history as her reason for refusing extradition Emily Tuttle, a representative for Bragg, said it's 'deeply disturbing' that Mitchell is 'playing political games in a murder investigation' and described her statement as 'a a slap in the face' to New York law enforcement. 'It is deeply disturbing that DA Mitchell is playing political games in a murder investigation. 'In Manhattan, we are serious about New Yorker's safety, which is why murders are down 24 percent and shootings are down 38 percent since DA Bragg took office. 'New York's murder rate is less than half that of Phoenix, Arizona, because of the hard work of the NYPD and all of our law enforcement partners. 'It is a slap in the face to them and to the victim in our case to refuse to allow us to seek justice and full accountability for a New Yorker's death.' In a scathing reply to Bragg's office on X, Mitchell hit back. 'It's great to see the Manhattan DA finally take interest in violent crime. My job is to focus on the victims I was elected to protect.' Almansoori is in custody on suspicion of killing Queens sex worker Oleas-Arancibia by strangling her and hitting her over the head in the Soho 54 hotel on February 8. He was arrested in Arizona after stabbing another woman at a McDonald's. At a Tuesday press conference, the NYPD revealed new details including that Almansoori was on bail at the time of the murder for attacking and sexually assaulting another escort in Florida in April 2023. After being arrested on that charge, he later posted his own bail in September of last year. He also confessed to assaulting another three women. 'We are working with our partners to arrange extradition so he can be charged for the homicide here,' NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. Kenny also revealed that Almansoori has an 'extensive' out of state arrest history having previously been arrested in Florida, Texas and Arizona. Surveillance footage of Almansoori caught after the murder of Oleas-Arancibia wearing a bodysuit along a well-lit Manhattan street. In a scathing reply to Bragg's office on X, Mitchell hit back A surveillance footage image shows the suspect in the grisly slaying of Oleas-Arancibia wearing a bodysuit in Manhattan Oleas-Arancibia's death has formally been ruled a homicide (pictured: interior of the room where Oleas-Arancibia was found) Oleas-Arancibia died of compression to her neck and blunt head trauma, according to a spokesperson for the city medical examiner A bloody iron was found lying by her body. Police also recovered a pair of bloody pants with a receipt in them from the hotel room Oleas-Arancibia (pictured left) came to the United States five years ago, leaving behind family including one of her sons Confirming the timeline of events, Kenny said that Almansoori had purchased a plane ticket from Florida to New York on January 26. According to Kenny, he then has credit card usage three days later in the Big Apple and visits an escort in Upper Manhattan on February 6. The body of Oleas-Arancibia was found on the morning of February 8, and four days later, Almansoori is said to have flown back to Arizona from Newark. Officials in Arizona took him into custody on Sunday after he stabbed a woman in McDonald's after dragging her into the ladies room and holding her against her will. Police say Almansoori was arrested shortly after he tried to flee in a stolen car and admitted while in custody to an earlier stabbing in Phoenix. In that incident, a woman was stabbed when a man attempted to steal her car at knifepoint. Almansoori was booked into the Maricopa County jail on charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault and theft. He was also charged with robbery, assault, theft and criminal damage in the separate Phoenix investigation. He is being held without bond. Kenny added the extradition could take 'days, weeks, it could be months.' Police said last week that they had been using 'extensive video' to track down the person of interest in the death of Oleas-Arancibia. The brother of the man suspected of shooting two people dead in a Colorado dorm has revealed the accused killer was a top accounting student at the university. Nicholas Jordan, 25, of Detroit, is suspected of shooting Celie Rain Montgomery, 26, and his roommate Sam Knopp, 24, on Friday at Crestone House on the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs campus. Jordan's older brother, Brandon Jordan, told Fox 2 News that he believes his brother is innocent. 'It's not real, it ain't real, Keep looking because you got the wrong guy,' he said on Tuesday. The distressed brother said Jordan always had top grades and was studying to be an accountant. Brandon Jordan told Fox 2 News that he believes his brother is innocent of killing two people inside a Colorado dorm room Nicholas Jordan, 25, from Detroit, is accused of shooting Celie Rain Montgomery, 26, and his roommate Sam Knopp, 24 Celie Rain Montgomery (left), 26, was identified along with Sam Knopp, 24, (right) after what police believe was a double murder last week 'I love you bro. I love you dude. I know you didnt do it bro' Brandon Jordan said in a message to his brother. The 25-year-old suspect was arrested Monday over last week's murders, and charged with two counts of first degree murder. Montgomery was a single mother to two daughters aged five and seven, according to a Facebook post by a heartbroken relative responding to her death, while Knopp was a gifted music student. It's unclear what the relationship was between the two victims. The coroner's office will determine how the victims died, but each person was shot at least once in what appeared to be an 'isolated incident,' police spokesperson Ira Cronin said at a briefing. Knopp, was a senior studying music at the university and said to be a beloved member of the Visual and Performing Arts department. He was an accomplished guitar player and an extremely talented musician. Montgomery worked as a freelance copywriter specializing in health and wellness. She was not a student at the university. A lockdown across campus lasted for about 90 minutes and later was isolated to Crestone House, a student apartment complex on campus, school spokesperson Chris Valentine said. Knopp with is pictured with his mother, Amy, in photo posted online Knopp, was a talented senior studying music at the university A police officer stands outside a dorm in the Village at Alpine Valley housing on Friday as police investigate a shooting on the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs campus Shocked students look outside their dorm window in the Village at Alpine Valley housing When police officers got to the room at around 6am Friday, they found Knopp and Montgomery both dead, having been shot in the head. Following the lockdown, the campus about 70 miles south of Denver remained closed for the day. Knopp's mother, Amy, shared her concerns online just as the shooting was taking place. 'There were reports of an active shooter on campus at UCCS where our son, Sam, is a senior. At least one person is dead,' she wrote. 'I haven't heard from Sam. He lives in Alpine Village, where residents were told to shelter in place. The campus is in lockdown and is now closed today. 'PLEASE EXCUSE MY LANGUAGE BUT IT'S THE GODDAMNED GUNS! This hits way too close to home and it makes me want to vomit. All the 'thoughts and prayers' in the world mean nothing without action to back them up.' Knopp is seen alongside his twin sister Ellie Knopp, left, and his sister Ellie are pictured together in a family photo Once it became clear her son was one of the victims, there followed messages of condolence. 'I'm so sorry for your loss and praying so hard for you and your family,' wrote Brittany Craig. 'Amy my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My heart is broken my condolences,' said Diane Sigl. 'Im so sorry Amy, I am angry and heartbroken we lost Sam,' added Elsa Ge. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was accused of hypocrisy for pressing for more aid to Israel even as she criticized President Benjamin Netanyahu's government. The California Democrat tore into Israel's campaign to eradicate Hamas that has led to a high number of civilian casualties. 'This is just uncivilized and brutal,' the California Democrat said in an interview with Tim Sebastian of DW News. 'What is this about war, we cannot have innocent people, children, families, being victims of war when they're not even combatants in it.' Pelosi went on to reference Netanyahu: 'I don't want to call him 'Mr.' because I've lost so much respect for him.' Pelosi, then House Minority Leader, is pictured above with Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu in 2021 at the U.S. Capitol Palestinians inspect the damage amid the rubble of a building where two hostages were reportedly held before being rescued during an operation by Israeli security forces in Rafah on the southern Gaza Aerial photo taken by drone shows the destruction in the middle of Gaza city by Israel bombs 'His very extreme, right-wing I wouldn't even say conservative because that's a legitimate place to be in the world of thinking on the spectrum but right-wing, radical, right-wing cabinet, I would hope that hearing from such a friend of Israel as Joe Biden ... that he would respect the lives of the innocent.' Sebastian noted that there are 'levers' of power previous presidents have used to pressure Israel that Joe Biden hasn't used, such as sanctions or holding up the delivery of arms. 'The president has said something about the settlements,' Pelosi insisted, defending Biden. Biden has taken heat from Arab Americans for his initial staunch support of Israel's offensive in Gaza, and toothless pleas with Israel to pursue more targeted attacks in subsequent months. 'None of us has any sympathy for what Israel has done to the children and the innocent people in this war,' the longtime Democratic leader went on. 'We want the hostages released we want Hamas addressed, if they think they can just prevail in Gaza and continue to be a threat to Israel, that is not an answer either.' Sebastian pressed: 'At what point would you say the price of this military operation is too high and is no longer morally defensible?' 'Why would they care if I said that?' Pelosi shot back. 'I don't want to call him 'Mr.' because I've lost so much respect for him,' Pelosi said of Netanyahu, who she's known for decades, this week 'If you don't like what Israel is doing, and the president has made it clear that some of what Israel is doing he doesn't like, and you go on supplying them with hardware to do these things, you own this operation every bit as much as they do, don't you?' the interview went on. 'No, we don't. We don't,' she responded. 'We have always supported Israel as our national security friend largely because it was in our interest to do so. We had shared values; [it's] the only democracy in the region.' 'The behavior of Netanyahu is, in my view, inexcusable in terms of how it has affected the collateral damage of children and families and the rest, but nobody can take away the right of any country to defend itself that has been brutally attacked in that way.' Pelosi insisted no U.S. hardware has gone to Israel since the October 7 Hamas attack. But weapons experts suspect many of the munitions used in Gaza have been U.S.-made. Sebastian asked if 28,000 lives, the Palestinian death toll according to the Gaza Health Ministry, was 'more than self defense.' Pelosi said she spoke to President Isaac Herzog, for whom she has 'enormous respect,' and he told her their bloody offensive would soon end. The ex-speaker then tore into progressive protesters who have been staging pro-Palestinian demonstrations outside her house. 'A lot of the people and are outside my house almost every day, but nobody cares about that,' she said. 'I don't hear them saying free the hostages. I don't hear them saying Hamas is a terrorist organization. I hear them praising hamas. I hear them ignoring the hostages.' Pelosi predicted U.S. support for Israel would last long beyond the current conflict. 'In the longer run, they're in a dangerous neighborhood and we will continue to support Israel. Pelosi, along with many other Democrats, voted against a stand-alone Israel aid bill on the House floor weeks ago. But that's only because Democrats widely supported a broader aid package that would have included not only Israel aid but money for Ukraine, Gaza and the Indo-Pacific. The mother of Nottingham attack victim Barnaby Webber said she will 'never forgive' a police officer who viewed bodycam footage of her son lying in the street after he was repeatedly knifed by triple killer Valdo Calocane. The undergraduate, fellow University of Nottingham student Grace O'Malley Kumar, both 19, and school caretaker Ian Coates, 65, were stabbed to death by the paranoid schizophrenic during a city-wide rampage last June. In an interview on LBC this afternoon, the bereaved mother, from Taunton, Somerset, said she had now discovered that an officer had viewed bodycam footage of her dead or dying son. The force last night said a special constable had been sacked for viewing the footage. Mrs Webber said: 'The police have finally given us details yesterday, because we asked the chief constable and we got a letter last night containing details because we've heard lots of varying versions of it. The mother of Nottingham attack victim Barnaby Webber told LBC today she will 'never forgive' a police officer who viewed bodycam footage of her son lying in the street Valdo Calocane, 32, embarked on his killing spree in the early hours of June 13, 2023 Barnaby Webber's mother Emma Webber arrives at Nottingham Crown Court before Valdo Calocane's sentencing 'We've had an apology for us not being informed in advance, and then we had the detail of how seriously they take this, and officers are specially trained, lessons will be learnt. 'But that doesn't really help with the pain of knowing that people were viewing the bodycam footage of my son in the street and I will never forgive them for that.' The development came 24 hours after Attorney General Victoria Prentis KC confirmed she had referred Calocane's sentence of a hospital order to the Court of Appeal, after concluding it was unduly lenient. Nottinghamshire Police said the special constable was sacked in December for viewing footage of the incident in Ilkeston Road, where Barnaby and Grace were attacked. A letter from the force to Mrs Webber said an investigation found the officer had viewed footage on his police laptop in August - two months after the attack - which related to 'officers and paramedics providing medical assistance to Barnaby and Grace at the scene, and after they had passed away.' Mrs Webber said: 'We are horrified and sickened to know that police personnel would think it's appropriate to do anything like that'. (L-R) Barnaby webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar and Ian Coates all died after being stabbed to death by Valdo Calocane last year Emma Webber alongside victims' relatives outside Nottingham Crown Court after Calocane was sentenced to a hospital order after admitting manslaughter by diminished responsibility Members of the victims' families met ministers at Downing Street last month to discuss Valdo Calocane's sentencing after they expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome Earlier this week, The Mail revealed that two officers had been disciplined over a WhatsApp message one had written and the other shared, which detailed injuries suffered by the victims. PC Matthew Gell was given a final written warning after being found guilty of gross misconduct last month. A disciplinary panel was told the officer had sent the message on to his wife and a friend in another police force, and had also 'trawled' Calocane's custody record despite not being involved in the investigation. The officer who wrote the message was dealt with informally and carried out 'developmental learning'. A source told the Mail the special constable's misconduct hearing was held in private and chaired by Chief Constable Kate Meynell. The sacked officer has been barred from working as a police officer in the future. To the fury of the victims' families, prosecutors accepted Calocane's pleas to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility after four psychiatrists concluded his schizophrenia led to an abnormality of mental functioning and impaired his ability to exercise self-control. The 32-year-old graduate was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court last month. Calocane embarked on his killing spree in the early hours of June 13 2023 after stalking the streets late at night CCTV gathered by police during their investigation found he travelled across Nottingham before attacking his victims Grace O'Malley Kumar and Barnaby Webber pictured walking home from a night out - minutes before they were fatally stabbed by Valdo Calocane Calocane then killed Ian Coates and stole his van - using it to mow down three others in Nottingham, who all survived Police then cornered Calocane after being scrambled to find him - discharging a taser before arresting him and charging him with murder Addressing the Attorney General's decision to refer the sentence to the Court of Appeal, Mrs Webber said: 'We don't dispute that he was mentally unwell, but we do dispute that he was in psychosis and diminished to the point of no culpability and we are relieved to hear the news from yesterday. 'His sustained actions, the aggravated manner of his premeditation and lots of other reasons that we are aware of make us firmly believe that he knew what he was doing.' Deputy Chief Constable Steve Cooper said: 'Nottinghamshire Police has carried out a thorough and extensive investigation into those who viewed material related to the Nottingham attacks which had no policing purpose to do so. 'Two officers have faced misconduct hearings as a result. 'For clarity, the investigation has found that no one has ever shared any images or video in relation to these horrific attacks.' A California substitute teacher was removed from his elementary school classroom after looking at 'inappropriate images' on his phone in front of students. One distressed parent said her child told her there 'were naked people on the phone' in full view of the students. The traumatic incident reportedly left students in tears, according to officials who were informed of the event. The horrifying behavior occurred sometime before noon last Friday, when a concerned parent called Cameron Elementary, in West Covina, California, demanding to know why her son had called her sobbing. When the school's principal checked on the young boy, she found 'several students crying' in the classroom, according to a statement from the school's superintendent. A substitute teacher at Cameron elementary school in West Covina, California was removed from the classroom last Friday after students said he was showing them 'naked people' on his phone This week, parents, who are upset no arrests have taken place, protested in front of the school The principal, Sylvia Fullerton, took over the class and ordered the substitute, who has not been named, to leave. She then tried to calm the upset children before bringing them to the school's on-site Mental Wellness Room. Stacy Matthews, a mother of one of the students, said: 'The teacher had his back to the kids, so they could see his phone and Adison said that there were naked people on the phone.' She said that many of the students huddled together in a corner because of how uncomfortable they were with what was going on. 'He wouldn't let them go to the bathroom,' she said of the substitute. Though several of the students eventually left to find help. The area's superintendent, Emy Flores, told NBCLA that the substitute teacher was immediately removed and an investigation has been opened. 'As soon as we found out, we took immediate action,' she said. Each parent of a child in the class was notified about what had happened. Flores, after learning about the incident, immediately alerted district administrators, Child Protective Services and local law enforcement Richard Bell, West Covina's police chief urged parents to 'remain calm' and 'trust in the investigative process.' 'We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all community members, particularly our children,' he said. The West Covina elementary school is about 20 miles east of Los Angeles The area's superintendent, Emy Flores (pictured), told NBCLA that the substitute teacher was immediately removed and an investigation has been opened In a statement from Superintendent Amy Flores, she reassured parents that the district was approaching the issue and investigation with the utmost seriousness On Tuesday morning, some parents gathered to protest in the rain in front of the school because the sub has yet to be arrested. 'When we found out on Saturday that he wasnt arrested, she was scared thinking that he was going to come back and come back to get them for tattling, is how she worded it,' said Matthews. Chief Bell said: 'We want to reassure the community that the police department is treating these allegations with the utmost seriousness. 'An investigation is currently underway to thoroughly examine the situation and gather all the necessary information.' Flores said her runs a rigorous and detailed hiring process, 'which also includes more than fingerprints, but a full background with DOJ, as well as drug testing.' She said everything had come back clean for the teacher in question. The first Russian tourists allowed to visit North Korea since the start of the pandemic have described their trip as 'surreal.' Ilya Voskresensky and Elena Bychokva were among a group of 100 Russians who signed up for a recent tour of the country. The group flew from Vladivostok to Pyongyang on North Korea's only airline Air Koryo and enjoyed activities including snowboarding, sightseeing and music recitals. It comes amid the burgeoning 'special relationship' between North Korea and Russia recently lauded by Vladimir Putin. 'It's like stepping back in time,' travel blogger Voskresensky from St Petersburg told CNN. Russian tourists allowed to visit North Korea have described their trip as 'surreal' The group flew from Vladivostok to Pyongyang on North Korea's only airline Air Koryo and were treated to typical activities including snowboarding and sightseeing The 100 tourists were taken around the capital city, which was eerily empty and strangely quiet according to the visitors 'Reminiscent of the stories my grandparents taught me about life in the Soviet Union the empty streets, the lack of advertisements - it's surreal.' Voskresensky shared video of him snowboarding along eerily empty slopes, as well as cruising along ghostly roads throughout the capital city. 'The meticulous preparations for our visit felt like being in a theater production,' Bychoka, a marketing professional, said. 'But amidst the choreographed scenes I couldn't shake the feeling there's another side to North Korea, one that remains hidden.' She showed video of a carefully controlled children's music recital, which showed smiling youngsters performing in perfect harmony. North Korea's invitation to Russian tourists is further evidence of the strengthening ties between the two countries. Russia has been using North Korean missiles during its invasion of Ukraine. On Monday, it was reported that Putin had gifted the North Korean leader a a Russian-made car for his personal use. A report confirming the gift didn't say what kind of vehicle Putin gave the North Korean dictator or how it was shipped. Elena Bychkovka (left) and Ilya Voskresensky (right) were among the first Russian tourists allowed into North Korea Bychkovka described the 'meticulously' planned trip as like being in the theater, and suggested there is more to the country that the controlled image they were shown It comes amid the burgeoning 'special relationship' between North Korea and Russia recently lauded by Vladimir Putin Voskresensky said the visit was like 'stepping back in time' to the stories of the Soviet era his grandparents told him But observers said it could violate a UN resolution that bans supplying luxury items to North Korea in an attempt to pressure the country to abandon its nuclear weapons. North Korea and Russia have boosted their cooperation significantly since Kim traveled to Russia last September for a summit with Putin. During Kim's visit to Russia's main spaceport, Putin showed the North Korean leader his personal Anrus Senat limousine and Kim sat in its backseat. Relations between North Korea and the US have soured by comparison, ever since the failed Hanoi Summit between then-president Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un in 2019. Visitors from the US have been banned in North Korea ever since 2017. But an American tourist on a heavily controlled visit to the country recently got a glimpse into the nation's attitude towards the US. 'What would you say is the common perception of, let's say, the United States in North Korea, in DPRK?' Jesse Romberg implored his unnamed guide - with DPRK short for Democratic People's Republic of Korea, which is what the nation calls itself. 'Up to now, we have no history of invasion. Korea - DPRK - has no history of invasion,' the unnamed man began. On a tour of North Korea, content creator Jesse Romberg decided to ask his state-appointed tour guide about the country's relationship to the United States In Jesse's Instagram Highlights reel from his trip to North Korea, he explained he accessed the country via Chinese tourist agency His guide appeared to reflect the viewpoint of the citizens within the totalitarian regime as many viewers pointed out that the guide's narrative wasn't quite reflective of the whole story '[America] have invaded so many countries. But there's no history of invasion [from DPRK],' he continued. 'We didn't do any harmful things to America but America invaded our country. 'Still they're in the southern part of our country. And still they're pushing hostile policies against our country, and sanctions against our country,' he continued. 'So what we want to say [to the US] is leave our country, lift all sanctions - then we can recover relations Relations between American and our country will get better.' In speaking about the invasion of Korea, the guide is referring to the Korean War which began when North Korea, led by Kim Il-sung and backed by the Soviet Union, invaded South Korea in 1950 and the US' subsequent involvement. Away from the facade constructed for tourists, life in the country under Kim's brutal regime remains bleak for many of his 26 million citizens. Residents cannot leave the country without the permission of the government, on punishment of death. Speaking out against the government can also be punished by death - making it the prospect of questioning one of its citizens about international relations on camera rather fraught. North Korea and Russia have boosted their cooperation significantly since Kim traveled to Russia last September for a summit with Putin American tourists have been banned from North Korea since 2017, with relations only worsening following the failed Hanoi summit in 2019 For many North Koreans, life is a far cry from the pristine, tourist-friendly image presented to the group with a UN report in 2019 suggesting up to 40 percent of the country go hungry Horrific details of the condition's in his gulags recently emerged in a documentary showing defectors desperately trying to flee from North Korea. In the gripping documentary Beyond Utopia: Escape from North Korea, harrowing footage reveals the lengths desperate people will go to to leave Kim Jong-un's regime full of famines, a developing economic crisis and crippling international sanctions. One defector said he didn't make it out and was detained in North Korea during his escape attempt, where he was tortured for nine months and was starved to the point he only weighed 35kg (77lbs). Meanwhile, a 2019 report from the UN Human Rights Office said as many as 40 per cent of the country go hungry after the collapse of socialist systems intended to provide them with food. 'People in (North Korea) are trapped in a vicious cycle, in which the failure of the state to provide for life's basic necessities forces them to turn to rudimentary markets where they face a host of human rights violations in an uncertain legal environment,' the UN office said in a separate news release. Don Steven McDougal, a Nazi tattoo having career criminal who lives on her father's property in a trailer, has been charged with the 11-year-old's murder Audrii Cunningham's body was found in a lake tied to a rock with a rope that matched one found in the car of a family friend accused of her murder. Don Steven McDougal, a Nazi tattooed career criminal who lives on her father's property in a trailer, has been charged with the 11-year-old's murder. He was already under police custody in connection with an unrelated assault in Livingston, Texas. Police say the girl's body was recovered on Tuesday from Trinity River after they used cell phone records, video analysis and information from McDougal. 'The rope used was consistent with rope that was observed in McDougals vehicle on a traffic stop two days prior,' the criminal complaint against McDougal states, as reported by CNN. Audrii Cunningham's body was found in a lake tied to a rock with a rope that matched one found in the car of a family friend accused of her murder Don Steven McDougal, a Nazi tattooed career criminal who lives on her father's property in a trailer, has been charged with the 11-year-old's murder Cunningham's father, Joshua, pictured with the man accused of killing his daughter, Don Steven McDougal. The suspect's swastika and SS tattoos are clearly visible on his left arm Police say the girl's body was recovered on Tuesday from Trinity River after they used cell phone records, video analysis and information from McDougal Audriis family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston. The alleged killer had taken the girl to the bus stop in the past or would take her to school if she missed the bus, officials said. After she was reported missing, investigators discovered that she never gotten on the bus to go to school that morning. A Hello Kitty backpack that authorities believe belonged to the child was then found on Friday near the dam on Lake Livingston, one of the states largest lakes. McDougal had joined the search efforts and was seen knocking on neighbor's doors while asking if anyone had seen Audrii. He claimed on social media he had 'done nothing wrong,' as reported by CNN. 'I have done everything I can to help find her. I have done nothing wrong,' he wrote in a comment on a Facebook page. Audriis family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston Pictured: A chilling mugshot of McDougal, the last person to see the youngster alive, according to police Audrii Cunningham's body was found Tuesday in the Trinity River near US-59, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons announced. 'My heart aches with this news and I express with my deepest sympathy and condolences to everyone who knew, who cared for, and loved Audrii,' Lyons said The sheriff also said that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body McDougal had allegedly walked Audrii to school on the morning she vanished As authorities investigated Audriis disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge. Prosecutors have said there is 'substantial evidence' in the case, and that cell phone data and videos helped identify places to search. Officials added that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body. Court records from Brazoria County, south of Houston, show McDougal pleaded no contest to two felony counts of enticing a child stemming from a 2007 incident and was sentenced to two years in prison. The sheriff said that the girls body has been taken to the Harris County medical examiners office in Houston to determine the cause of death. Audrii lived with her father, grandparents and other family members, authorities said. When the search was still ongoing, the girl's mother pleaded for help from the public and said it was not like her daughter to just run off or disappear. 'We have no leads so we are grasping at any string, any signs, anything in general,' she told KPRC at the time. McDougal has a criminal history dating back to 2001 that includes convictions on two counts of enticement of a child Audrii sparked a state-wide search after she vanished early Thursday morning in Livington, around an hour north of Houston, when she didn't turn up for school As authorities investigated Audriis disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge 'There is not one feeling you feel,' she explained. 'You are broken, you are mad, you are empty and right now I am empty. 'I am not going to be the same unless my baby is returned to me and neither is her family, any of us, any of her friends, any of the people that she has been connected to in the community.' A candlelight memorial was planned for Audrii on Wednesday evening in Livingston on the grounds of an outdoor venue. A Navy chief based in Japan has been charged with espionage and communicating defense information to a foreign citizen. Chief Petty Officer Fire Controlman Bryce Pedicini has been charged with espionage and other criminal charges for delivering classified information to a foreign contact in 2022 and 2023, according to the U.S. Naval Institute. 'A sailor assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) is suspected of mishandling classified documents and information. The incident remains under investigation and legal proceedings continue,' U.S. Naval Surface Force spokesperson said. Pedicini is accused of giving documents to an employee of a foreign government on several occasions between November 2022 through February 2023 in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Chief Petty Officer Fire Controlman Bryce Pedicini has been charged with espionage and other criminal charges for delivering classified information to a foreign contact in 2022 and 2023 Pedicini is accused of giving documents to an employee of a foreign government on several occasions between November 2022 through February 2023 in Hampton Roads, Virginia From May 8 to May 17, while in Yokosuka, Japan he allegedly attempted to communicate information relating to national defense photographs that included images of a computer screen with secret information. The charging documents said he had, 'information relating to the national defense of the United States with reason to believe that it would be used to the injury of the United States and to the advantage of a foreign nation.' He is also accused of wrongfully taking his personally owned electronic device into a secure room and processing classified material on a system that was not approved for classified material. He also allegedly failed to report solicitation of classified information by an unauthorized person. According to the charging documents, Pedicini was arrested shortly after the Japan incident and has been in pre-trial confinement since May 19. From May 8 to May 17, while in Yokosuka, Japan, he allegedly attempted to communicate information relating to national defense photographs that included images of a computer screen with secret information According to the charging documents, Pedicini was arrested shortly after the Japan incident and has been in pre-trial confinement since May 19 The charges were referred for a general court-martial on January 18, and he was set to have a hearing on Wednesday in San Diego. His Article 32 hearing, the military equivalent of a civilian arraignment, has already occurred. Pedicini, originally from Tennessee, joined the Navy in 2008 and was promoted to chief in August 22. He had previously served on USS McFaul and USS Curtis Wilbur before reporting to USS Higgins in April. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham mocked the Russian government after being added to the country's terrorist watchlist. Russia added the South Carolina GOP senator to its 'extremists and terrorists' watchlist after he publicly blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for 'murdering' his political rival Alexei Navalny. In response to reports about being added to Russia's terrorist list, Graham posted sarcastically on X: 'There goes all my rubles!' 'I call your 'terrorists and extremists' bid and raise you 'State Sponsor of Terrorism under U.S. law,' Graham wrote in another post. 'Believe it or not, 2024 is going to be a bad year for Putin's Russia.' He then wrote out a long list of actions the U.S. could take to harm Russia, including by providing more aid and high-end weapons to Ukraine, designating the country as a state sponsor of terrorism and expanding NATO. Graham's appointment to the list comes just two days after he praised Putin's political rival Alexei Navalny, who died February 16 while serving out a prison sentence in an Arctic Russian penal colony. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., mocked Russia after being appointed to a terrorist list, saying, 'There goes all my rubles!' Alexei Navalny, a top political rival of Putin, died while serving a prison sentence last week Russian President Vladimir Putin 'murdered' Alexei Navalny, Graham said Sunday Navalny was serving a nearly 20-year sentence on extremism charges. 'Navalny was one of the bravest people I ever met,' Graham said Sunday in a CBS interview. 'When he went back to Russia he had to know he was going to be killed by Putin, and he was murdered by Putin,' he continued. 'President Biden told Putin, if something happens to Navalny, you're going to pay a price.' 'President Biden, I agree with you, the price they should pay is to make Russia a state sponsor of terrorism,' said the senator who serves as the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee. But this is not the first time Graham has run afoul of Russian law enforcement. Russia's Interior Ministry issued an arrest warrant for the senator in May 2023 after he told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that U.S. military aid is helping the war-torn country. 'A video circulating online shows U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham saying during a meeting with the president of Ukraine that U.S. financial support is causing the deaths of Russian citizens,' the Russian Interior Minister said at the time. Graham, however, did not directly tie his sentiments to Russians dying to U.S. aid for Ukraine. Rather, the South Carolina senator praised the aid to Ukraine as 'the best money we've ever spent' and later responded to another comment by Zelensky, saying 'and the Russians are dying.' A ninth man in NSW has been arrested and charged over his alleged role in an international paedophile ring where men allegedly watch each other view child abuse material. NSW Police set up a taskforce in March last year to investigate the child abuse ring where participants were allegedly sharing and viewing child abuse material on large video meetings. While the syndicate is allegedly made up of hundreds of people from all over the world, nine have been charged in NSW. The latest was James Terence Rebbeck, 39, who was arrested at his home in Leichardt, in Sydney's west, on Tuesday morning. James Terence Rebbeck, 39, has been arrested and charged with using a carriage service to transmit/publish/promote child abuse He was charged with six offences including four counts of use a carriage service to transmit/publish/promote child abuse, and two counts of disseminating bestiality material. His home was also raided where officers located electronics and items that were 'relevant to their investigation'. NSW Police Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty said there were 'hundreds' of people allegedly participating in the video calls and exposing themselves. 'They have cameras open so they can see each other getting pleasure from it. In the general person's world this is unthinkable, but for these guys it's the norm,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald. Rebbeck is the ninth person to be charged in relation to an alleged child abuse ring Rebbeck appeared in Downing Centre Court on Tuesday where he asked to be released on bail. The prosecutor argued the 39-year-old was 'at risk of serious reoffending as he referred to himself as a paedo'. 'He discussed what he would like to do with children. He has evidently been doing this for some time,' the prosecutor said. The court heard Rebbeck had grown up on the NSW South Coast and was living with his partner of four years. His bail was refused with Rebbeck found to be an 'unacceptable risk' to the community. Nine men across NSW have now been charged in relation to the child abuse ring, and are accused of 70 offences between them. Arrests have also been made in Victoria and Western Australia. Rebbeck will next appear in court again on April 17. The statue of slave trader Edward Colston will remain a museum piece after it was pulled down by Black Lives Matter (BLM) activists almost four years ago. Colston's statue, which had stood in a public square in the centre of Bristol for over 100 years, was toppled by protesters and dropped into the harbour in June 2020 following the death of black man George Floyd in the US the previous month. After it was retrieved from the river, the city's M Shed museum put it on display in order to 'start a city-wide conversation about its future', next to some of the signs waved by protesters on the day the sculpture was pulled down. It has been kept in storage for over two years; in the interim, a city-wide survey commissioned by the We Are Bristol History Commission found that four-fifths of locals supported keeping it in a museum rather than putting it back on its plinth. And following a Bristol City Council planning committee meeting on Wednesday, councillors agreed to formally declare the statue a piece of museum property, and agreed that a new plaque would be placed on the plinth explaining its history. The statue of Edward Colston as it was displayed in Bristol's M Shed museum following its toppling in June 2020. It will return to the museum in a similar form The statue was toppled from its plinth in Bristol city centre during the Black Lives Matter protests - and dumped into the city's harbour Protesters pulled down the statue because of Colston's time as a slave trader, during which some 84,000 Africans were shipped across the Atlantic by the Royal African Company Colston made some of his fortune in the slave trade, later donating money to a number of buildings and causes in Bristol and elsewhere in England Wording for the plaque is yet to be agreed, but a draft of the wording proposed describing him as a 'city benefactor' who had a 'prominent role in the enslavement of African people'. Nevertheless, papers presented to councillors on Wednesday night declared the statue to be artistically and historically significant, particularly given its role in the UK's BLM protests, and proposed entering it into the city's permanent collection. Other proposals agreed upon include putting it back on display, drawing on the original exhibition in 2021 with information on the 'broader history of the enslavement of people of African descent'. Elected members in the city formally agreed to transfer the statue into the museum's possession during the meeting - though some believed it should return to its plinth. Green councillor Lorraine Francis said the museum is the 'best place' for the statue - but was unhappy with the draft statement for the new plaque, 'It doesn't represent my African heritage in any shape or size,' she said in remarks reported by BBC News. Conservative councillor Chris Windows, however, supported returning the statue to the plinth, suggesting he was uncomfortable with the idea of 'rewriting history'. 'The correct place for the statue is on its original plinth,' he said. Colston's bronze statue was created in 1895 by sculptor John Cassidy, and had been placed in the city centre with a plaque declaring him 'one of the most virtuous and wise sons of (Bristol)'. But his history as a one-time deputy governor of the Royal African Company, during which time it shipped tens of thousands of slaves from Africa to the Americas, has made him a locally divisive figure. An estimated 84,000 slaves were transported during his time with the Company, and of those 19,000 may have died during the Atlantic crossing. Colston used the wealth gained partially from his time with as a slave trader to fund hospitals, schools, workhouses and churches across England but particularly in Bristol, where he later served as an MP. Debate began about the statue's future in the 1990s as some questioned whether it was appropriate to celebrate a slave trader with statues and buildings in his name such as the Colston Hall - now named the Bristol Beacon. Bristol City Council had sought to acknowledge his history as a slave trader with the addition of a second plaque to the statue's plinth in 2018 that would have acknowledged his role in shipping African men, women and children to America. But after the plaque was made, its erection was vetoed by Bristol's Labour mayor, Marvin Rees, who took issue with the wording on the plaque describing Colston as 'one of (Bristol's) greatest benefactors'. Edward Colston's statue as it once stood in Bristol city centre. Debate about its future had raged for years before BLM activists took action After the statue was pulled down, some protesters symbolically knelt on its neck - in reference to George Floyd, who died after white police officer Derek Chauvin pressed his knee against his neck for nine minutes in May 2020 The statue was rolled towards Bristol harbour by protesters before it was dumped in the river and later retrieved by city authorities The plinth remains in place in Bristol - with a new plaque set to be created giving Colston's history as a slave trader more context The wording has been decided with the input of the Society of Merchant Venturers, a Bristol organisation that manages many buildings and charities bearing Colston's name - several of which have removed his moniker altogether. It has since said its involvement in the plaque's wording was 'inappropriate' - and said that the removal of the statue in June 2020 was 'right for Bristol'. Around 80 per cent of people surveyed supported keeping the statue in a museum, according to the council papers - with more than 14,000 people asked, half of which were from Bristol itself. A further 12 per cent supported returning the statue to the plinth, while four percent wanted it back in the waters of Bristol harbour or destroyed altogether. Historic England, responding to the consultation on the statue's future, acknowledged that its removal was 'of great importance to Bristol's wellbeing'. However, the heritage body said its permanent absence from the plinth would cause a 'high degree of harm' to the Grade II listed base in the long term. The debate on the future of the Colston statue comes as other Bristol institutions continue to deal with the city's deeply embedded historical links to slavery. Bristol University's historical society said earlier this month it had pulled the institution's crest from its fleeces because it bears the insignias of families with historical links to the slave trade. The university itself has just removed Colston's emblem of a dolphin from its crest but has kept those of university donors the Wills and Frys families, who also have links to the trade - prompting the student group's move in protest. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available The former Bishop of Broome has been arrested and charged over alleged historical sex offences. Christopher Alan Saunders, 74, was arrested at his Piggott Way home, in Western Australia, on Wednesday afternoon. He was taken to Broome Police Station where he was charged with 19 offences. Fourteen counts of unlawful and indecent assault and two counts of sexual penetration without consent were among the charges. He was also charged with three counts of being a person in authority indecently dealing with a child. Christopher Saunders, 74, was arrested at his Piggott Way home, in Western Australia, on Wednesday afternoon. Bishop Saunders was allegedly at the centre of several investigations - including one carried out by the Vatican. The 74-year-old has always denied any allegations resulting from the investigation. He is the most senior Catholic in Australia to be accused of sex crime allegations - some of which go back 50 years. The Bishop spent the night in police custody and will face court on Thursday. The alleged charges date back to 2008 across Broome, Kununurra, and Kalumburu. The charges come after five years of police and internal church investigations into allegations of sexual abuse which was made by several men. It is believed a new investigation by Western Australia Police was started after a 200-page Vatican report was leaked late last year. The bishop has been charged with 19 offences, including two counts of sexual penetration without consent Although the allegations were first made public in early 2020, a Western Australia Police investigation was closed without charges being laid. Police have recently raided Bishop Saunders house twice. It is believed the recent development was triggered by a leaked 200-page Vatican report late last year. After the report was given to the Western Australia Police a new investigation was launched. Nikki Haley said Wednesday that frozen embryos created via in-vitro fertilization are 'babies,' siding with a recent Alabama Supreme Court decision and revealing she used artificial insemination to conceive her son. 'Embryos, to me, are babies,' Haley told NBC News. Haley, who has talked in general terms about her personal struggles with fertility, said she used artificial insemination to have her son Nalin, the second of her two children. Nikki Haley - in an interview with NBC News (above) - sided with an Alabama Supreme Court ruling that declared frozen embryos conceived through IVF are children under state law Artificial insemination is a different process than IVF that doesn't present the same complexities around creating embryos in a lab. But Haley has said her struggle to have kids has influenced her pro-life stance. 'When you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, that's a life. And so I do see where that's coming from when they talk about that,' she told NBC News. On Friday, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos created through IVF are considered children under state law, raising questions about whether clinics or families could face wrongful death lawsuits if embroys are destroyed. It is common to fertilize and store several embryos in an IVF procedure given its expense and the toll it can take on a woman's body. Haley had two children with husband Michael Haley after the pair wed in 1996. Her daughter, Rena, was born in June 1998, while her son, Nalin, was born in September 2001. In April of last year, during a major speech on abortion rights, Haley discussed how her fertility struggles shaped her views. 'Michael and I struggled to have children of our own. I had many challenges as a teenager, and in my college years. I went through numerous surgeries. When Michael and I were married, I couldn't wait to be a mom. But what happened so easily for many of my friends, was not my family. We went through countless sessions of fertility treatments,' she said at the time. 'Every day I wake up and see or speak to my two children. I feel blessed. The greatest job I've ever had, is being there mom,' she noted. Nikki Haley and husband Michael (center) have two children - Rena (left) and Nalin (Right) Haley - seen with her husband and children when she was running for governor of South Carolina in 2010 - has spoken of her personal struggles with fertility Alabama's decision has had far reaching effects as medical facilities weigh the legal ramifications of the court ruling. The University of Alabama at Birmingham announced on Wednesday that it was pausing IVF treatments in response to the state Supreme Court ruling. The hospital system made the call for fear of potential criminal prosecutions and lawsuits aimed at its patients and doctors in the wake of the ruling. In a statement, a UAB spokeswoman said they are 'saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF, but we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments.' The pause in procedures will primarily impact UAB's Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. The ruling handed down by the court last week may pose a significant threat to the ballooning field of fertility treatments. UAB is the first clinic to announce that it is pausing IVF procedures while officials determine potential legal consequences of the ruling. Seven of nine judges on the state's highest court ruled in favor of the landmark decision, including Chief Justice Tom Parker who quoted the Bible, saying the ruling would protect 'the sanctity of unborn life.' The University of Alabama at Birmingham's hospital system became the first in the state to pause its IVF treatments following a ruling last week that determined frozen embryos are viewed under the law as children A UAB spokeswoman said they are 'saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF , but we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments' The decision came as the result of a lawsuit brought by a group of IVF patients whose frozen embryos were destroyed in December 2020, when a patient removed them from a cryogenic storage unit and dropped them on the ground. 'Human life cannot be wrongfully destroyed without incurring the wrath of a holy God, who views the destruction of His image as an affront to Himself,' Chief Justice Parker wrote. 'Even before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory.' One judge - Alabama Supreme Court Justice Greg Cook - issued a dissenting opinion, arguing that the decision was based on a 19th century law which was not designed to take modern fertility technology into account. The plaintiffs in the IVF clinic case filed two lawsuits against the facility where the accident happened - the Center for Reproductive Medicine. They alleged that the clinic was in violation of Alabama's Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, which applies to unborn babies. 'The relevant statutory text is clear: the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies on its face to all unborn children, without limitation,' the court's decision stated. The group also accused the clinic of negligence and sought monetary compensation. This part of their claim is now being considered by the court. The family of a man who died from untreated peritonitis in a Portuguese hospital after 'hours of abandonment on a trolley', are suing the medical facility for more than 400,000. Robbie Byrne was pronounced dead when his plane landed at Dublin Airport less than 48 hours after he sought urgent medical attention and was rushed to Faro's main public hospital in the Algarve. The 27-year-old window fitter's friends called for an ambulance when he woke up with crippling stomach pains just over halfway through their week-long Portuguese holiday. His mother, Sonya, fought back tears yesterday as she claimed his treatment amounted to little more than 'hours of abandonment on a trolley' and insisted her 'angel's' death could have been avoided with better medical care. Mr Byrne, from Sallynoggin, died as the Aer Lingus flight home he was on with his four friends began its descent on June 18, 2022. Robbie Byrne, (pictured) from Sallynoggin, was pronounced dead when his plane landed at Dublin Airport less than 48 hours after he sought urgent medical attention and was rushed to Faro's main public hospital in the Algarve His mother Sonya, 56, (right) and father Nicky (left, holding a framed photo of Robbie) are suing the Algarve University Hospital Centre for more than 400,000. Sonya claimed Robbie's treatment amounted to little more than 'hours of abandonment on a trolley' and insisted her 'angel's' death could have been avoided with better medical care The lawsuit has been filed against the local health authority that administers the Algarve University Hospital Centre (pictured) and the doctor who saw Robbie in A&E His mother said: 'I've worked tirelessly to try to get answers since my son died but I've never spoken publicly until now. Robbie had a burst appendix and the poison burnt his oesophagus and burnt a hole through his bowel. He was a slight asthmatic but otherwise a healthy young lad. All of this came on very suddenly. 'He'd gone out with his friends the Wednesday night and they called for an ambulance after waking up early and hearing him wailing with pain. They were instructed not to follow him to hospital because of Covid. 'After he returned home he told them he had been left alone in a corner on a trolley, without the glasses he normally wore and unable to make himself understood properly because he didn't speak Portuguese. Robbie couldn't talk to me directly by then because he had no energy. I initially put it all down to dehydration because of the heat and I was in a bit of a panic and with his friends telling me they'd done nothing for him at the hospital my focus at that point was just on getting Robbie home. 'None of us knew how sick my son was because he hadn't got the information that could and should have saved his life, in my opinion. 'I'm so angry now I have the fuller picture.' Robbie boarded his plane in agony after checking himself out of the Algarve University Hospital Centre in what his mother has described as an act of desperation at the appalling treatment she said her 'terrified' son had received. Lawyer Alexandre Martins said yesterday that on January 22 he lodged a lawsuit on behalf of Sonya, 56, and her construction worker husband Nicky at a civil court in Lisbon. He said: 'From being treated at the hospital until his death, Robert experienced nearly 48 hours of suffering, without even being prescribed medication to alleviate it. 'This prolonged pain and the pain his parents suffered knowing the circumstances in which their son died must be compensated. 'We would understand it if Robert had been in the middle of a desert, but there's no way to explain how anyone can be abandoned inside a hospital in a civilised country.' Insisting clinical protocol in Portugal meant he should have undergone a more in-depth additional examination like an MRI scan or even surgery after being referred to hospital, he added: 'What Faro did was to give Robert a green, non-urgent bracelet, and leave their patient without care or information. Information is essential in a case like this. He was unaware that his life was at risk and, feeling abandoned, ended up turning his back on the hospital without knowing the risk he was running.' The lawsuit has been filed against the local health authority that administers the hospital Mr Byrne was taken to and the doctor who saw him in A&E. Mr Martins claims in legal papers the medic examined him after midday on June 16, 2022 and noted in his clinical observations that Mr Byrne had a hard abdomen that could be an acute abdomen, but did not inform him of the severity of his condition, carry out any more tests or give him pain relief medicine. Robbie (pictured) boarded his plane in agony after checking himself out of the Algarve University Hospital Centre in what his mother has described as an act of desperation at the appalling treatment she said her 'terrified' son had received Sonya Byrne said: 'My son should never have been allowed on that plane. He fainted at the airport in the boarding area and they asked for an ambulance and got the Red Cross. His friends who were with him at the time saw things I don't want to know about and have still left them traumatised today. 'Our compensation demand stands at 500,000 because I wanted to go to the highest level.' Their demand is the equivalent of around 428,000. 'This is not about money but about hitting a big corporation where it hurts most which is in their pockets. They'll never ever feel the pain we do which is never going to go away,' added Sonya. 'Robbie was an angel, our baby, an amazing kid and such a genuine and lovely person. We want and need justice to make sure we get change. People go away on holiday to Portugal and I'm concerned they're not being looked after properly. 'My opinion is my son's death was preventable and he should have had surgery straight away after he got to hospital. 'I want to fix the wrongs so other people don't end up like my boy and that's why we've launched this legal action.' 'The grief for us and Robbie's friends is still unbearable.' The local health authority said in a statement it 'naturally regretted' this 'personal tragedy' but the fact the lawsuit has been lodged meant it couldn't comment fully. It added: 'From the preliminary assessment carried out internally, there is no indication or suspicion that calls into question the quality of the services provided. The user abandoned the service, which is why we stand ready, with serenity and complete availability, to clarify this situation in the appropriate instances when required.' The Nobel Prize winner's cause of death is listed as cancer in his death certificate Neruda died on September 23, 1973, after a military coup toppled the government of his friend, President Salvador Allende A Chile appellate court instructed authorities Tuesday to reopen the investigation into the death of poet Pablo Neruda A Chilean appeals court has ordered the reopening of an investigation into the death of the leftist poet and Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda in 1973 soon after the military seized power in a coup. The court said in a statement Tuesday that it was heeding a request by Neruda's family and Chile's small Communist Party, adding that the inquiry into his death had not been 'exhaustive' and there were still steps to take that would help 'clarify the facts.' Last year, a panel of international experts delivered a long-awaited report on the death of the author of '20 Poems of Love and a Song of Despair' to the Court of Appeals of Santiago. The panel turned over documents that included laboratory reports from Canada and Denmark as well as reports from reviewing experts. Specific details of the experts' report were not made public. The appeals court said it had also ordered handwriting tests, analyses of tests carried out by experts from the universities of McMaster and Copenhagen and a review of the file and expert statements. In 2017, a group of foreign forensic experts suggested that Neruda had not died only of cancer, as officially stated, and did not rule out 'third parties' being involved in his death in the first days of Augusto Pinochet's 17-year dictatorship. An appeals court in Chile has ordered authorities Tuesday to reopen the investigation of the 1973 death of Nobel prize winning poet Pablo Neruda. Last December, a judge rejected a request by Neruda's nephew to reopen the case to look for other causes of death than cancer, which is what is listed on the poet's death certificate A picture of Chilean poet and Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda is seen inside his museum house in the Chilean Pacific coast area of Isla Negra Neruda died on September 23, 1973, and was regarded as Chile's national poet and most important intellectual. He was awarded the 1971 Nobel Literature Prize, two years before socialist President Salvador Allende, to whom Neruda was close, was overthrown by the military under Pinochet. Manuel Araya, the poet's driver, has claimed that Neruda received a deadly injection from agents of Pinochet's junta who infiltrated the Santa Maria Clinic in Santiago where he was being treated. The appeals court made no reference to Araya's accusation. Neruda was best known for his love poems and accumulated dozens of prizes. Neruda was clearly affected after Allende killed himself instead of surrendering to the military takeover and the persecution and killing of his other friends. He planned to go into exile in Mexico, where he would have been an influential voice against the dictatorship. Neruda, then ambassador in France, answers journalists' questions on October 21, 1971 next to his wife at the Chilean embassy in Paris after being awarded the 1971 Nobel Literature Prize But a day before his planned departure, he was taken by ambulance to the Santa Maria Clinic. Suspicions that the dictatorship had a hand in his death have remained long after Chile returned to democracy in 1990. Neruda's body was exhumed in 2013 to determine the cause of his death, but those tests showed no toxic agents or poisons in his bones. His family and driver had demanded further investigation. In 2017, authorities reported the discovery of fragments of the Clostridium botulinum bacteria in skeletal remains and teeth. Neruda was reburied in his favorite home overlooking the Pacific Coast. Russia is so desperate for military equipment that it is requisitioning weapons sold to other countries, it emerged yesterday. President Vladimir Putin is facing 'extreme challenges' obtaining material to fight in Ukraine, Western officials have said. Troops are resorting to swiping weapons which have already been sold to other nations by private Russian arms dealers. Last year the Indian Air Force complained that Russia was unable to honour its arms delivery commitments. It was later reported Kremlin officials had visited Cairo asking Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to return more than 100 engines from Russian helicopters it had already exported. President Vladimir Putin is facing 'extreme challenges' obtaining material to fight in Ukraine, Western officials have said It was later reported Kremlin officials had visited Cairo asking Egyptian president Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to return more than 100 engines from Russian helicopters it had already exported 'Russia's domestic ammunition production capabilities are currently insufficient for meeting the needs of the Ukraine conflict,' one official said. The country's domestic military industry is also struggling with the impact of sanctions, officials claim. Its inability to access Western components means troops are being left with old systems and substandard equipment. However, despite this, one Western official said: 'We do not believe Russia has given up on its maximalist goals of subjugating Ukraine.' It comes as the war enters its third year, with Russia seemingly in the ascendancy after taking control of the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka. Ukraine's shortage of supplies has also come into focus with its reliance on Western support for money and equipment. Pictured: Russian soldiers in Mariupol in 2022 Ukraine's shortage of supplies has also come into focus with its reliance on Western support for money and equipment. Troops are starting to run out of ammunition as a huge package of US war aid requested by President Joe Biden remains blocked by Republicans in Congress, according to White House officials. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said: 'We cannot afford to wait any longer.' An interview the Mail's Defence and Diplomacy Editor obtained with a former SAS soldier equated to a confession of 'murder', the journalist said yesterday. Mark Nicol, who spoke to the ex-soldier in 2017, said it was 'the most intense interview' of his 25-year career, as he gave evidence to the Afghan inquiry. The hearing was provided with a chilling transcript of the 40-minute exchange in which the former soldier confessed to 'hunting' down and executing an unarmed Afghan. He candidly admitted to Mr Nicol that his unit would routinely kill suspected Taliban and plant weapons on the unarmed men to make them appear as if they posed an immediate threat. In an extract read to the hearing, the SAS soldier said: 'I don't think we done wrong. I think it was needed for the people we were dealing with, and that's how we folded the Taliban.' Mark Nicol, who spoke to the ex-soldier in 2017, said it was 'the most intense interview' of his 25-year career But the man admitted that some of the incidents he was personally involved in did 'play on your mind', adding: 'Did I do everything right or wrong? But it was my job, so...' In a shocking confession, the former soldier then went on to reveal how his team leader had instructed him to take a man 'back in and do a search' during one particular operation. 'I sort of read between the lines there, done what I've needed to do,' he said. 'And then when we went to the bar afterwards, I went quietly, I was like, 'Have I f***** up here by doing what I did?' But he [the team leader] went, 'No, I will never give you anyone to take anywhere unless it is for a reason'. 'We're not going out cold-footed and just looking for people, we're hunting these men individually.' Mr Nicol said that he then realised the soldier was referring to extrajudicial killings. The soldier said that suspected commanders would hide their weapons and suggested the unit would be forced to plant firearms on deceased bodies to make them appear as if they had posed a threat. He said: 'It's just unfortunate that in the heat of the moment when we're doing our job we have to, provide to the Afghans there, and then that was the only way we can deal with it, and then we sort out the bits, you know what I mean.' Afghan families have accused the unit of conducting a 'campaign of murder' against civilians, amid claims of a cover-up (File Image) Mr Nicol who wrote a story covering most aspects of the interview which featured in The Mail On Sunday at the time, agreed with the source not to 'mention or allude' to his personal confession. When asked by counsel Oliver Glasgow why he did not include the admission, Mr Nicol said: 'At that time it is still open to a degree of interpretation and the specific circumstances. 'I think it would have been cavalier to have done as you suggested [and included it nonetheless].' The inquiry is examining whether Special Forces had a policy of executing males of 'fighting age' who posed no immediate threat to UK forces in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. Afghan families have accused the unit of conducting a 'campaign of murder' against civilians, amid claims of a cover-up. The inquiry continues. A Trident missile test failure has 'undermined' the nuclear deterrent, the Defence Secretary was warned last night. In an incident branded 'worse than an embarrassment', a 17million missile misfired and crashed into the sea next to the submarine that launched it. But Grant Shapps insisted Britian's nuclear deterrent remains 'effective' and 'dependable'. He said the Government retains 'absolute confidence' in the nuclear weapons system despite the second failed launch in a row following a misfire in 2016. Last month, during a test off the coast of Florida with Mr Shapps and First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key on board, the HMS Vanguard crew performed a doomsday drill. The HMS Vanguard where the trident missile was fired from during a test off the coast of Florida Trident II (D5) ballistic missile firing from HMS Vigilant on January 30 Grant Shapps (pictured) was on board the vessel at the time when an 'anomaly occurred' during the test exercise A Trident 2 missile was propelled into the air, but its first stage boosters did not ignite and the 58-ton missile 'just went plop' into the sea next to the vessel and sank, The Sun revealed yesterday. It is understood the issue related to equipment attached to the missile, which prevented the firing of the rocket system. Officials insisted that if the missile was fired in conflict, the problem would not have occurred as the testing equipment would not be attached. A Defence source added: 'We could absolutely fire in a real world situation if we needed to. That's in no doubt after this. 'The issue that occurred during the test was specific to the event and would not have occurred during a live armed fire.' But a former Navy commander told the Mail: 'Putin must be laughing. The Ministry of Defence is adamant this was a test missile issue not a war shot issue. I believe them, but am not sure they're explaining it very well. We can add it to the list of things making the Royal Navy look bad at the moment.' Former British Army commander Colonel Richard Kemp told the Mail: 'It's worse than an embarrassment it's a form of undermining our own deterrent. 'The British nuclear deterrent is an absolute cornerstone of our defences, and if it is seen so publicly to fail then that undercuts the value of the deterrence overall. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key (pictured) was also on board the HMS Vanguard when its crew performed the doomsday drill 'That's obviously an extremely bad thing, particularly in this age when we're probably in the most dangerous period of time since the Second World War, with threats from nuclear armed Russia, as well as from nuclear armed China, and from Iran which is almost nuclear armed. 'It's really important that our conventional, as well as nuclear, deterrent is seen to be effective. Actually, our conventional deterrent is ineffective now because we have such a small Armed Forces that we don't really present any deterrent effect on our enemies. 'If we now have a reduced deterrent from the nuclear element, then together they put us in a very vulnerable position, I believe.' Former British Army chief Lord Dannatt said the test failure was 'nationally embarrassing'. 'It's not ideal, is it? I think nationally it is rather embarrassing,' he told Sky News. 'My understanding is that the Secretary of State for Defence and the First Sea Lord were on board the ship and so it was obviously a very high-profile event that was expected to go well.' He added: 'I don't know what lessons the experts will take away from this, I don't know what lessons the Royal Navy will take away from this. 'But it may be that Grant Shapps will reflect on the question 'are we spending enough on our nuclear deterrent capability, on the Royal Navy overall, and on our overall defence capability?'.' Trident missiles are not frequently tested, as each launch can cost up to 17million. A previous test fire, in 2016, also ended in failure after a Trident launched from HMS Vengeance veered off course and self-destructed. Mr Shapps yesterday blamed an 'anomaly', but said the UK's 'resolve and capability to use its nuclear weapons, should we ever need to do so, remains beyond doubt'. Former British Army commander Colonel Richard Kemp (pictured) said the missile failure was 'worse than an embarrassment' In a written statement to Parliament, the Defence Secretary said: 'The test reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK's nuclear deterrent, in which the Government has absolute confidence. The submarine and crew were successfully certified and will rejoin the operational cycle as planned. 'On this occasion, an anomaly did occur, but it was event specific and there are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpiles. Nor are there any implications for our ability to fire our nuclear weapons, should the circumstances arise in which we need to do so.' No 10 was unable to say when the last successful Trident missile test occurred, but the Prime Minister's spokesman said the UK Government had 'complete confidence' in Britain's nuclear deterrent. Tory former defence minister Tobias Ellwood said he understood the problem was caused by testing equipment attached to the missile itself that prevented the firing of the rocket system, which would not have been attached if the missile was 'fired in anger'. It is understood the MoD is carrying out an inquiry into the information leak. A well-known and respected migrant charity in El Paso has been accused of 'alien harboring, human smuggling, and operating a stash house' by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. The top attorney for the Lone Star State showed up at Annunciation House on Feb. 7, giving the organization one day to turn over records 'without an explanation,' the religious group said in a press release. 'The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) reviewed significant public record information strongly suggesting Annunciation House is engaged in legal violations such as facilitating illegal entry to the United States, alien harboring, human smuggling, and operating a stash house,' Paxton's office alleged in its own press release Tuesday. Paxton's office did not respond to DailyMail.com's request asking what information it had pointing to Annunciation House breaking the law. However, the religious organization refused to give Paxton any paperwork, instead taking its case to a court to decide what it was legally obligated to turn over. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton demanded documents from the Annunciation House, a migrant charity in El Paso, Texas on Feb. 7 Migrant children from different Latin American countries rest on cots inside one of several shelters run by Annunciation House in El Paso, Texas Annunciation House Director Ruben Garcia, a protege of Mother Teresa, called Ken Paxton's actions 'immoral' and 'illegal' Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton pictured on Feb. 16 leaving a Houston court hearing for a felony security fraud case that he's a defendant in 'The consequence of a flagrant failure to comply with such a request is that OAG may terminate the businesss right to operate in Texas,' Paxton's office said. 'The OAG lawsuit seeks to revoke Annunciation Houses authorization to do business in Texas and asks the court to appoint a receiver to liquidate their assets.' Over the phone, Annunciation House Director Ruben Garcia told DailyMail.com he has no idea why the attorney general was coming after them and said he was 'severely limited' in what he could say. Friday, the charity will be holding a press conference, and Garcia added he would be able to answer more questions then. A judge in El Paso is expected to hear arguments on this legal dispute Thursday. Migrant families are dropped off at an Annunciation House in El Paso, Texas after being processed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in December 2022 Migrant children from different Latin American countries wait to receive food at a new center opened by the Annunciation House to help the large flow of migrants being released by the United States Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement in El Paso, Texas on April 24, 2019 Asylum-seeking migrants are dropped off at Annunciation House in El Paso in December 2022 after being screened by US Customs and Border Protection In a press release, Garcia called Paxton's actions 'illegal' and 'immoral' and denied any wrongdoing. Annunciation House mostly shelters, feeds and provides basic needs of migrants after they are screened and processed by US Border Patrol. That means the migrants have been given legal permission to be in the US. The organization also works with other religious organizations to bus migrants from El Paso to Denver, however, those migrants are authorized to travel within the US as they must pass Border Patrol inspections points on their way to Denver. 'If Mr. Paxton believes that the Annunciation House merits investigation, he should apply the same standard to Governor Greg Abbott, who has literally transported a similar population across state lines,' local Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (D) tweeted. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, front left, talks with his defense attorney Anthony Osso, Jr., during a hearing in his securities fraud case , Friday, Feb. 16, at the Harris County criminal courthouse in Houston. A judge on Friday rejected Paxton's attempts to throw out felony securities fraud charges that have shadowed the Republican for nearly a decade Ken Paxton mega-donor Nate Paul was indicted by the feds last year. The Texas businessman at the center of an FBI investigation that he and Paxton entered into an illegal quid pro quo, with Paxton helping Paul with legal troubles in exchange for Paul hiring Paxton's mistress Ken Paxton's affair with his former mistress, Laura Olson, is central to accusations Ken Paxton broke the law She added that she met with US Attorney General Merrick Garland last week and asked his office to investigate Paxton. In legal filings, Paxton pointed to news coverage of Annunciation House, where the the organization admitted to housing 'migrants who avoided Border Patrol' when they illegally crossed the Southern border. Paxton has been under investigation by the FBI for years, with accusation of corruption and abuse of power. He also faces state charges in unrelated criminal cases. In May, the Republican was impeached by the Texas House, with accusations of an illegal quid pro quo-- that Paxton helped one of his wealthy donors Nate Paul in exchange for that same donor giving Paxton's mistress, Laura Olson, a job. Paxton survived being removed from office, but he faces multiple criminal investigation in the Lone Star State. The attorney general's investigation into what many believe to be a reputable organization has sent a chilling effect in West Texas. "We are concerned because there are implications for others in this community,' John Martin of the Opportunity Center, a homeless shelter in El Paso stated. The Opportunity Center helps anyone who is homeless, including migrants. The organization does not ask those it helps about their legal status in the US. Despite the extra scrutiny, Martin said he wasn't changing any of his normal practices. 'We're going to continue doing what we do,' Martin said. Our voices are just about as unique as our fingerprints - so how would you feel if your voice was cloned? A new type of deepfake known as voice cloning has emerged in recent months, in which hackers use artificial intelligence (AI) to simulate your voice. Famous faces including Stephen Fry, Sadiq Khan and Joe Biden have all already been victims of voice cloning, while one unnamed CEO was even tricked into transferring $243,000 to a scammer after receiving a fake phone call. But how does it work, and just how convincing is it? To find out, I let a professional hacker clone my voice - with terrifying results. A new type of deepfake known as voice cloning has emerged in recent months, in which hackers use artificial intelligence (AI) to simulate your voice. But how does it work, and how convincing is it? To find out, I let a professional hacker clone my voice - with terrifying results Voice cloning is an AI technique that allows hackers to take an audio recording of someone, train an AI tool on their voice, and recreate it. Speaking to MailOnline, Dane Sherrets, a Solutions Architect at HackerOne, explained: 'This was originally used to create audiobooks and to help people who have lost their voice for medical reasons. 'But today, it's increasingly used by Hollywood, and unfortunately scammers.' When the technology first emerged back in the late 1990s, its use was limited to experts with an in-depth knowledge of AI. However, over the years the technology has become more accessible and more affordable, to the point where almost anyone can use it, according to Mr Sherrets. 'Someone with very limited experience can clone a voice,' he said. 'It takes maybe less than five minutes with some of the tools that are out there which are free and open source.' When the technology first emerged back in the late 1990s, its use was limited to experts with an in-depth knowledge of AI. However, over the years the technology has become more accessible and more affordable, to the point where almost anyone can use it, according to Mr Sherrets (stock image) How to protect yourself from voice cloning scams Listen for key signs in the audio including pauses, unnatural phrasing and noise in the background Don't be afraid to ask questions that only the real person would actually know Set-up a safe word with your friends and family Advertisement To clone my voice, all Mr Sherrets needed was a five-minute clip of me talking. I opted to record myself reading out a Daily Mail story, although Mr Sherrets says that most hackers could simply lift the audio from a quick phone call, or even a video posted on social media. 'It's possible to do it during a call, if there's something shared on social media, or even if someone's on a podcast. Really just things that we're uploading or recording every day,' he said. Once I'd sent Mr Sherrets the clip, he simply uploaded it into a tool (which he has chosen not to name), which could then be 'trained' on my voice. 'Once that was done, I was able to type in, or even speak directly into the tool, and have it output whatever I wanted the message to be in your voice,' he said. 'What's really crazy with the tools that are out there now, is I'm able to add extra inflections, pauses, or other things that make the speech sound more natural, which makes it a lot more convincing in a scam scenario.' Despite not featuring any pauses or added inflections, the first clip of my voice clone that Mr Sherrets created was startlingly convincing. The robot voice perfectly nailed my American-Scottish hybrid accent, as it said: 'Hey Mum, it's Shivali. I've lost my bank card and need to transfer some money. Can you please send some to the account that just texted you?' However, the creepiness was taken up a notch in the next clip, in which Mr Sherrets added pauses. 'Towards the end you can hear a long pause, and then a breath, and that makes it sound a lot more natural,' the professional hacker explained. While my voice cloning experience was thankfully just a demonstartion, Mr Sherrets highlights some of the serious dangers of the technology. 'Some people have had fake kidnapping calls, where their "child" has called them, saying "I've been kidnapped, I need millions of dollars or they won't release me," and the kid sounds very distressed,' he said. 'What we're seeing today, increasingly, are folks trying to do more targeted social engineering attempts against companies and organisations. 'I used the same technology to clone my CEO's voice. 'CEOs often have public appearances, so it's very easy to get high-quality audio of their voice and clone it. The robot voice perfectly nailed my American-Scottish hybrid accent, as it said: 'Hey Mum, it's Shivali. I've lost my bank card and need to transfer some money. Can you please send some to the account that just texted you?' Voice cloning is an AI technique that allows hackers to take an audio recording of someone, train an AI tool on their voice, and recreate it READ MORE: Can you tell these AI-generated faces from real people? One of these faces is real while the other is not Advertisement 'Having a CEO's voice makes it a lot easier to get a quick password, or access to a system. Companies and organisations need to be aware of that risk.' Thankfully, Mr Sherrets says there are several key signs that indicate a voice is a clone. 'There are key signs,' he told MailOnline. 'There are the pauses, the issues where it doesn't sound as natural, and there might be what you call "artefacts" in the background. 'For example, if a voice was cloned in a crowded room and there's a lot of other people chatting, then when that voice clone is used, you're going to hear some garbage in the background.' However, as the technology continues to evolve, these signs will become trickier to spot. 'People need to be aware of this technology, and constantly be suspicious of anything asking them to act urgently - that's often a red flag,' he explained. 'They should be quick to ask questions that maybe only the real person would actually know, and not be afraid to try and verify things before they take any action.' Mr Sherrets recommends having a 'safe word' with your family and friends. 'If you really are in an urgent situation, you can say that safe word and they'll instantly know that this is really you,' he said. Finally, the expert advises being aware of your digital footprint, and keeping an eye on the amount you upload online. 'Every time I upload now, it expands my audio attack surface and could be used to train AI later,' he added. 'There's trade-offs to that that everyone will need to make, but it's something to be aware of - audio of yourself that's floating out there can be used against you.' A dead European satellite the size of a rhino will come crashing back to Earth today but officials insist it doesn't pose any danger to Earthlings. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), which launched the ERS-2 satellite nearly 30 years ago, it will reenter Earth's atmosphere at 15:49 GMT (16:49 CET). A new map shows the impact zone over the Pacific Ocean, just north of the equator and about 1,500 miles southeast of Hawaii. It is here that ESA expects the satellite to begin to break up and where fragments could be scattered over hundreds of miles. Thankfully, ESA isn't expecting them to hit anyone, as it says the annual risk of a human being even just injured by space debris is around one in 100 billion. This new map from the European Space Agency (ESA) shows the point of the satellite's reentry or centre of impact window (COIW, shown with red dot). It is here that it expects the satellite to begin to break up Artist illustration of the European Remote Sensing 2 (ERS-2) satellite in space. It's finally returning to Earth after ending operations in 2011 and being launched in 1995 What is ERS-2? ERS-2 (European Remote-Sensing Satellite 2) launched on April 21, 1995. At the time, it was the most sophisticated Earth observation spacecraft ever developed and launched by Europe. Together with the almost-identical ERS-1, it collected data on Earth's land surfaces, oceans and polar caps. It was called upon to monitor natural disasters such as severe flooding or earthquakes in remote parts of the world. In 2011, ESA retired ERS-2 and began the process of deorbiting - and now it's due to reenter the atmosphere and start to burn up. ERS-2 launched with a mass of 5,546lbs (2516kg). Now depleted of fuel, its current mass is estimated to be around 5,057lbs (2294kg). Advertisement According to ESA, the satellite will break up over the point of reentry when it enters Earth's atmosphere. That's because the compression and friction in the dense region of the atmosphere closest to the Earth generates a lot of heat which breaks up and burns most of the satellite machinery. ERS-2 weighs just over 5,000lbs about the same as an adult rhinoceros. ESA says: 'The vast majority of the satellite will burn up, and any pieces that survive will be spread out somewhat randomly over a ground track on average hundreds of kilometres long and a few tens of kilometres wide.' Although ESA estimates the reentry will be at 15:49 GMT today, it admits here is a level of uncertainty in its reentry prediction of 1.76 hours. This means it could reenter 1 hour and 45 minutes either side of 15:49 GMT although 15:49 GMT is currently the agency's best guess. 'This uncertainty is due primarily to the influence of unpredictable solar activity, which affects the density of Earths atmosphere and therefore the drag experienced by the satellite,' it said in a statement. However, the estimated reentry location has already changed and could still keeping changing in the next few hours. Within the last 24 hours, ESA had predicted it would reenter over the southeast of Africa, potentially northern Mozambique or central Malawi. Worryingly, ESA is describing the event as a 'natural' reentry because there's no way for ground staff to control it during its descent. 'There is no longer any way to actively control the motion of the satellite from the ground during its descent,' it said. Old map: Merely hours ago, ESA had predicted it would reenter over the southeast of Africa, potentially northern Mozambique or central Malawi. The projected point of entry has since dramatically changed Image of ERS-2 captured from space by HEO - an Australian company with an office in the UK - taken by other satellites between January 14 and February 3. It shows ERS-2 as it rotates on its journey back to Earth. The UK agency say they have been shared with ESA to help in their tracking ERS-2's re-entry READ MORE: Footage shows a Chinese rocket crashing to Earth At around 11 am local time on December 26, rocket debris crashed in a fireball in a forested area of Debao, Guangxi Province Advertisement Dr James Blake, a space debris researcher at the University of Warwick, said this is just one of thousands of active and defunct satellites orbiting the Earth. ERS-2 is the latest to undertake the return leg of its journey as it re-enters the Earth's atmosphere. 'This is a fate that awaits uncontrolled satellites and debris that can no longer counteract the drag forces exerted by the Earth's atmosphere,' said Dr Blake. 'Indeed, operators are encouraged to speed up the re-entry of their defunct satellites to keep space clear for future missions.' The ERS-2 satellite was launched on April 21, 1995 from ESA's Guiana Space Centre near Kourou, French Guiana to study Earth's land surfaces, oceans and polar caps. After 15 years, the space probe was still functioning when ESA declared the mission complete in 2011. Deorbiting manoeuvres were performed to use up the satellite's remaining fuel and ground control experts started lowering its altitude from about 487 miles (785km) to 356 miles (573km). Illustrated timeline of European Remote Sensing 2 (ERS-2) satellite's mission provided by the ESA, which estimates it will reenter Earth's atmosphere at 11:14 GMT (12:14 CET) on Wednesday (February 21) This was ERS-2's final image captured while above Rome, Italy, July 4, 2011. Shortly after, manoeuvres began to deorbit the veteran satellite. Flight operations ended September 5, 2011 READ MORE: Doomed Peregrine One lunar lander carrying JFK's remains is destroyed in fiery reentry of Earth over Pacific Ocean Peregrine's eerie final re-entry image (above), shows an eclipsed 'Crescent Earth' gleaming in the void of space Advertisement At the time, experts wanted to minimise the risk of collision with other satellites or adding to the cloud of 'space junk' currently around our planet. Since then ERS-2 has been in a period of 'orbital decay' meaning it's been gradually getting closer and closer to Earth as it goes around the planet. ERS-2 will reenter Earth's atmosphere and burn up once its altitude has decayed to roughly 50 miles (80km) about one fifth the distance of the International Space Station. At this altitude, it will break up into fragments, the vast majority of which will burn up in the atmosphere, but some fragments could reach Earth's surface, where they will 'most likely fall into the ocean', according to ESA. 'None of these fragments will contain any toxic or radioactive substances,' the agency said. Although it can't guarantee there's no chance of ERS-2 hitting someone, ESA did point out that the annual risk of any single human being even just injured by space debris is under one in 100 billion. That's about 1.5 million times lower than the risk of being killed in an accident at home and 65,000 times lower than the risk of being struck by lightning. The ERS-2 satellite was launched back in April 1995 from ESA's Guiana Space Centre near Kourou, French Guiana (pictured) ERS-2 was launched in 1995 following on from its sister satellite, ERS-1, which had been launched four years earlier. Both satellites carried the latest high-tech instruments including a radar altimeter (which sends pulses of radio waves towards the ground) and powerful sensors to measure ocean-surface temperature and winds at sea. ERS-2 had an additional sensor to measure the ozone content of our planet's atmosphere, which is important to block out radiation from the sun. ERS-1 is no longer operational, having suffered a malfunction in 2000, but its exact whereabouts are unknown. Experts warn that keeping reptiles in captivity makes deadly bites more likely This week a Colorado man, 34, died in an extremely rare response to the bite from his pet Gila monster. The man, whose identity remains undisclosed, suffered a bite from a juvenile Gila monster and died, marking the first fatal case of a Gila monster bite in the past 94 years. Experts have now warned that such an incident was 'inevitable'. Chris Lewis, captivity research officer at wildlife charity Born Free, told MailOnline there is no way of knowing whether you will have a fatal reaction until it is too late. Mr Lewis says that incidents like this are 'always going to be an inevitability if people are keeping animals in conditions that are unnatural to them.' A 34-year-old Colorado man died days after being bitten by a venomous Gila lizard, which he owned as a pet The Gila monster is unique among North American lizards for its venom, which it secretes through its lower jaw. The venom is known to cause swelling, burning pain, vomiting, dizziness, and low blood pressure which can lead to fainting. However, the last recorded death from a Gila monster bite was in 1930, over 90 years ago. It is believed that the man may have suffered from an allergic reaction, four days after being bitten. Mr Lewis said: 'It is generally believed that the venom is non-fatal and that this individual suffered an allergic reaction. 'But what this highlights is that no matter how venomous an animal is, it will always pose a risk if it is being kept as a pet.' Mr Lewis points out that there is 'no sort of precautionary test' that owners could take to see if they are at risk of a fatal allergic reaction. He explained: 'Until somebody is bitten, they're not going to know if they're allergic to the animal's venom.' The Gila monster is unique among North American lizards for its venom, which it secretes through its lower jaw Is it legal to own a Gila monster in the UK? Since 2007, the Gila monster has been categorised as a dangerous animal under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976. This means that, while it is legal to own one, a special licence is required. A licence requires an inspection from the local council's Veterinary Officer. Potential owners must prove that they have a suitable enclosure that prevents the Gila monster from escaping. Advertisement While their venom is rarely fatal, the bite of the Gila monster is powerful and can still be dangerous and extremely painful. A care sheet published by exotic pet store Reptile Rapture notes: 'A Gila is often docile which can lead you into a false sense of security. At anytime, it could bite. 'Sometimes, the only way to get the lizard to release its hold may be to submerge it in water or squirt hand sanitiser in its mouth.' In both the US and UK, owners need a special licence to own a Gila monster. Mr Lewis says that Born Free's latest research shows that there are at least 38 Gila monsters in private ownership in the UK. However, he says that the existing laws are not sufficient to protect owners of venomous animals. 'There is very little, if anything, in the legislation which requires the safety of the owner or other people in the house,' he said. Handling venomous lizards safely requires training and adequate bite-proof gloves, neither of which are a requirement for owning a Gila monster. Gila monster bites are not fatal but their jaws are so strong that one pet shop advises holding the animal under water or squirting hand sanitiser into its mouth to get it to release EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Fennec foxes from the Sahara entice people with their 'cute' ears and fluffy tails - but experts warn they make TERRIBLE pets and can even attack owners Advertisement Gila monsters are also extremely long-lived and require expensive specialist equipment to keep them healthy. Mr Lewis added: 'It's completely bizarre that members of the public can keep animals that are categorised as dangerous.' In the wild Gila monsters are not particularly aggressive animals. They are extremely slow-moving and rely on their natural camouflage to blend in and ambush small mammals and birds. If threatened, Mr Lewis explains, Gila monsters are much more likely to hide or run and will only bite as an absolute last resort when under a lot of stress. However, placing these animals in captivity significantly increases the risk of them feeling like they need to bite defensively. Dr Charlotte Regan, wildlife manager at World Animal Protection, told MailOnline: 'In the wild, human-Gila monster interactions are quite rare; they are mostly nocturnal and spend a lot of time below ground. 'Being kept in captivity as a pet fundamentally places the Gila monster in an unnatural environment and in unnatural circumstances, including their proximity to humans.' It's one of the most popular AI chatbots around the world. But Google's Gemini has been accused of being racist towards white people. The tool uses artificial intelligence to create images from prompts within seconds. But users claim the AI bot refuses to create images of Caucasian people, after testing it with requests for Popes, Vikings, and country music fans. 'New game: Try to get Google Gemini to make an image of a Caucasian male. I have not been successful so far,' one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter). It's one of the most popular AI chatbots around the world. But Google 's Gemini has been accused of being racist towards white people 'New game: Try to get Google Gemini to make an image of a Caucasian male. I have not been successful so far,' one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter) Google launched its 'next-generation model', Gemini 1.5, last week, featuring the option for image generation. 'You can create captivating images in seconds with Gemini Apps,' Google said. 'From work, play, or anything in between, Gemini Apps can help you generate images to help bring your imagination to life.' To create image, users can write simple prompts for the AI bot, with Google recommending these begin with words like draw, generate, and create. Several eager fans have tested the tool out, creating images of everything from dogs riding surfboards to flying cars. However, some early users have noted that the vast majority of images of people generated by the tool are not white. The issue was first flagged on X by Frank J. Fleming, a former computer engineer and writer for children's TV. The issue was first flagged on X by Frank J Fleming, a former computer engineer and writer for children's TV Mr Fleming first asked Google Gemini to 'create an image of a Pope', and found that both creations were people of colour. Next, he tried to 'come up with new ways of asking for a white person without explicitly saying so' READ MORE ChatGPT gets a HUGE update The updated version is first being made available to Plus and Enterprise users Advertisement Mr Fleming first asked Google Gemini to 'create an image of a Pope', and found that both creations were people of colour. Next, he tried to 'come up with new ways of asking for a white person without explicitly saying so.' However, his requests for images of medieval knights, someone eating a mayo sandwich on white bread, someone bad at dancing, a country music fan, and a Viking also only resulted in images of people of colour. He eventually managed to create an image of a white man and a white woman when he asked Google Gemini for an image of 'people who might be named Seamus.' Mr Fleming initially questioned whether the 'diversity' algorithm was to blame for the issue. To test this theory, he asked the bot for images of Zulu warriors and samurais, but once again found that these were all depicted as people of colour. 'This is just interesting to me now as a programmer. I just want to poke at it now until I can figure out what the algorithm is,' he wrote. Mr Fleming's requests for images of medieval knights, someone eating a mayo sandwich on white bread, someone bad at dancing, a country music fan, and a Viking also only resulted in images of people of colour He eventually managed to create an image of a white man and a white woman when he asked Google Gemini for an image of 'people who might be named Seamus' 'Offhand, if it just tried to diversify any prompt (i.e, give his Latino Zulus), that seems easier than what's it's doing. 'It needs to first figure out if a prompt would normally be primarily white people, and only then force it to diversify by some algorithm.' Another user specifically asked Google Gemini for an image of a Caucasian Pope, and claimed that the resulting image came 'with a free lecture.' Alongside a picture of Pope Benedict, the tool wrote: 'While it's not appropriate to assume all Popes are Caucasian, many have been of European descent.' Another user specifically asked Google Gemini for an image of a Caucasian Pope, and claimed that the resulting image came 'with a free lecture' One user vented: 'It's embarrassingly hard to get Google Gemini to acknowledge that white people exist' In response, several users have called Google Gemini 'racist' and 'woke'. 'So i went to see if Google's AI called Gemini actually discriminates and is racist towards white people. and yes, it is,' one user tweeted. 'I've tried over a hundred different prompts (literally) and Gemini won't acknowledge that white people exist. this is f**king scary and racist.' Another wrote: 'Spent 10 minutes playing with google gemini, its a woke joke.' And one vented: 'It's embarrassingly hard to get Google Gemini to acknowledge that white people exist.' Speaking to MailOnline, Jack Krawczyk, Senior Director of Gemini Experiences, said: 'We're working to improve these kinds of depictions immediately. 'Gemini's AI image generation does generate a wide range of people. And that's generally a good thing because people around the world use it. But it's missing the mark here.' The fin whale, the second-largest animal in the world after the blue whale, now lives full-time in the waters around New York and New Jersey, according to a new study that tracked the ocean giants by their songs. This endangered whale typically spends the summer in its Arctic and Antarctic feeding grounds, migrating to the tropics to breed and to give birth in the winter. But some fin whales are living around the greater New York City area year-round, according to new research from a team of scientists at the Wildlife Conservation Society in The Bronx and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts. The new research, when placed alongside older data from this region, suggests these whales may have already been living there for a decade or more. A fin whale and a bottlenose dolphin swim in the waters of the New York Bight, the triangular area of ocean extending east from New York and New Jersey The New York Aquarium compiled this list of the top 10 places to watch whales from the shore in New York and New Jersey. Most land-based observers will see humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins, as the fin whales tend to be farther out to sea Four years of audio recordings taken from a buoy stationed about 40 miles off the coast of Long Island, New York, revealed that male fin whales remain in the area throughout the year. READ MORE: Scientists FINALLY crack case of dead fin whale that washed up in California The dead whale bore zig-zag and stripe scars. Initially scientists suspected sharks, but they soon discovered the real culprit. On December 10, the body of a 52-foot-long juvenile female fin whale washed up on Pacific Beach with zig-zag and striped scars Advertisement The buoys captured whales singing every single month of the study period. Males are the only ones who sing, but since fin whales tend to mate in winter, females are likely nearby when the males are singing their winter songs. And though the females may migrate during the warmer months, at least some males appear to be sticking around, the scientists found. The area these whales inhabit is known as the New York Bight, which extends outward in roughly a triangle shape east from Long Island, New York, and south from Cape may, New Jersey. Fin whales grow to around 85 feet from tip to tail, and as adults they weigh 40 to 80 tons - 80,000 to 160,000 pounds. They can live 80 to 90 years, but they are threatened by climate change, getting entangled in fishing gear, lack of prey from overfishing, ocean noise like radar testing, and being struck by ships. 'While they may not be seen as close to shore as other whales and dolphins, it is truly remarkable that the second largest animal to have ever lived on this earth is here in the New York Bight year-round off our coasts,' said study co-author Howard Rosenbaum, director of the Wildlife Conservation Society's Ocean Giants Program, in a statement. 'Hopefully, our efforts will lead to more efforts and best practices to better protect these amazing, endangered animals in the NY Bight.' The fin whales of the New York Bight tend to occupy this mapped area, but the traffic lanes (dotted yellow lines) of ships can pose a threat to whales, both due to direct strikes and the noise of their engines disrupting whale songs The fin whale, named for its characteristic dorsal fin, is classified as endangered. Males may have trouble finding mates sometimes, and recent reports have shown that they attempt to mate with blue whales Females give birth every two to three years, after an 11- to 11.5-month-long gestation period. Scientists believe fin whales are monogamous, forming bonds between mating pairs. Since there is almost a year between when they mate and when they give birth, their annual migrations bring them back to the same location for both events. This likely means that calves are being born and mature whales are mating in the waters around New York and New Jersey. The fin whale is a baleen whale, meaning it feeds on small fish and tiny marine invertebrates like krill by filtering them through its massive comb-like baleen plates Currently, the fin whales living in the northwestern Atlantic - including in the New York Bight - are managed as a single population, but past studies and the new study have identified multiple groups of the whales, the authors wrote. 'More information is needed about the distribution and behavior of fin whales within the New York Bight to help inform how this endangered species can be protected from the range of potential stressors and threats encountered year-round in these waters,' said study co-author Mindi Rekdahl, associate marine conservation scientist with the Wildlife Conservation Society, in the statement. The study was published in the journal Scientific Reports. By analyzing recordings of the whale song taken from January 2017 through December 2020, scientists could track the whales' seasonal shifts. 'The New York Bight buoys play a critical role in the protection of wildlife, like the fin whale, in one of the busiest waterways in the world,' said study co-author Mark Baumgartner, a marine ecologist at Woods Hole. 'The data collected lets industry, government and the public know when whales are nearby.' Fin whale songs tend to be repetitive, so the main characteristic that changes in them is called the 'inter-note interval' (INI), the amount of time between notes. Most years, the scientists found, the INI was shortest from September to December, meaning the whales were calling frequently. This makes sense since that is their mating season. Groups of fin whales live year-round in the New York Bight. Females may migrate to colder waters to teach their calves to feed in the summer, but at least some males remain in the waters around New York and New Jersey all year Fin whales feed through baleen, massive hair-like filtering 'teeth.' They usually eat small prey like krill and, as pictured here, herring Then in the spring, from March to April, the INIs got longer. 'Given that songs followed predictable seasonal shifts from short-INIs to long-INIs and had a distinct INI pattern within each season, a single song pattern was present in the NYB during these years,' the researchers wrote. In other words, the whale songs followed a clear seasonal pattern each year. Notably, this pattern was the same that previous researchers had tracked in the region a decade ago. One year did not follow the pattern, though, they found: 2019. In this year, there was no short-INI period in the fall and winter. This may reflect a year when there was a shift in reproductive behaviors, the authors wrote. 'Instead, fin whales may have predominately continued to forage in the [New York Bight], while reproductive fin whales may have utilized a different region for breeding activities,' they wrote. DailyMail.com has created a map of the top 10 whale watching locations according to the Wildlife Conservation Society and the New York Aquarium. When fin whales feed, seabirds tend to flock to the location, relying on the whales to spot schools of fish that they can swoop in and exploit You may be able to catch a glimpse of a fin whale from shore, but your best bet for spying these animals may be to go out on a boat. The list of locations was published in 2019, but it is 'still relevant today,' study co-author Carissa King Nolan, assistant marine conservation scientist at the Wildlife Conservation Society, told DailyMail.com. 'From those locations, people would most likely see either humpback whales or bottlenose dolphins,' she said. 'Fin whales are generally found further from shore so it is less likely that someone would see a fin whale at one of those spots.' It doesn't hurt to try, though. More than 400 AI experts, celebrities, politicians, and activists have signed an open letter demanding lawmakers to take action against deepfake technology. The letter argued that the growing number of AI-generated videos are a threat to society due to the involvement of sexual images, child pornography, fraud, and political disinformation. Deepfakes are AI-generated media that mimic human voices, images, and videos that can be mistaken as real. The letter states that deepfake technology is misleading the public, making it harder to discern what is real on the internet, and therefore, is more important than ever to implement formalized laws to protect our ability to recognize real human beings. Calls for more stringent regulations come after sexually explicit deepfake images of Taylor Swift went viral on social media last month. Taylor Swift was targeted by sexually explicit deepfake images that went viral on X last month The majority of people targeted by deepfakes are women, with videos surfacing as early as 2018. One video targeted actress Natalie Portman Deepfakes are a huge threat to human society and are already causing growing harm to individuals, communities, and the functioning of democracy, said Andrew Critch, AI Researcher at UC Berkeley in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and lead author on the letter. We need immediate action to combat the proliferation of deepfakes, and my colleagues and I created this letter as a way for people around the world to show their support for law-making efforts to stop deepfakes. Deepfakes have become so prevalent in society, that between 2022 and 2023, the amount of falsified sexual content increased by more than 400 percent while fraud jumped by a shocking 3,000 percent in that timeframe, according to the Ban Deepfakes campaign. The majority of people agree that individuals who share deepfake porn online should face criminal charges Kristen Bell was yet another celebrity targeted by a deepfake video last year The letter, titled Disrupting the Deepfake Supply Chain, calls for a blanket ban on deepfake technology, and demands that lawmakers fully criminalize deepfake child pornography and establish criminal penalties for anyone who knowingly creates or shares such content. Signees also demanded that software developers and distributors be held accountable for anyone using their audio and visual products to create deepfakes. Its increasingly clear that anyone, anywhere could be the target of harmful deepfakesincluding our children,' said Sarah Gardner, CEO of the Heat Initiative. Lawmakers work for us, and they have a moral imperative to protect our kids by acting quickly to hold accountable the platforms and bad actors that are allowing the proliferation of child sexual abuse material, she added. Emma Watson was yet another target of deepfake technology when a fake video of her surfaced online Marvel actress Scarlett Johansson was targeted last year when a deepfake video advertisement promoting Lisa AI surfaced. The letter encouraged media companies, software developers, and device manufacturers to work together to create authentication methods like adding tamper-proof digital seals and cryptographic signature techniques to verify the content is real. It also stated that the rising amount of nonconsensual pornography is one of the top reasons the letter is so important, citing one report that found that deepfake pornography accounts for 98 percent of all such videos online. It's not just Taylor Swift - now ANYONE can be targeted by the vile deepfake porn barons Deepfake porn is already a massive industry with entire dedicated and seemingly unregulated sites. Advertisement These videos received a reported 34 million views in 2023, with women accounting for 99 percent of the people targeted. The new letter comes as Taylor Swift added her name to the dozens of other celebrities who were victims of deepfake images, when nonconsensual sexually explicit images went viral on X, garnering more than 27 million views and 260,000 likes before the images were taken down. Female celebrities have been the primary targets of deepfake images since as early as 2018 when Natalie Portman was featured in a video. Marvel actress Scarlett Johansson was also targeted last year when a deepfake video advertisement promoting Lisa AI surfaced. In March, Harry Potter star Emma Watson was featured in a deepfake ad on social media where she appears to engage in a sexual act. The technology is advancing so rapidly that anyone can be targeted, and the general public is increasingly falling victim to deepfakes, the letter stated. More than 30 female teenagers at a New Jersey high school were targeted last year when a male classmate created and spread deepfake images of them online, prompting outrage among students and parents. 'Today, we are seeing that it is affecting private individuals because it's so immediate, so fast, ActiveFence researcher Amir Oneli told Dailymail.com in October. 'The most tragic thing is that no one is safe. 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. As collagen levels in the body decrease due to age, skin can get saggier and looser, especially if youve lost some weight. It happens to everyone, but if it makes you feel self-conscious, theres a must-have body cream that can make everything a little tighter - and its called the Nativa SPA quinoa firming body lotion. 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Vitamin E is clinically proven to bring new cells to the surface faster, which speeds up healing, cell turnover, and regeneration - even on the stubborn areas on the backs of the arms, as shown in before and after photos. Thousands of shoppers rate the Nativa SPA quinoa body lotion five stars for how it improves skin tone and tightness, and one user noticed a visible improvement in the tightness of arm skin in just 28 days Once skin looks better than ever thanks to this healing lotion, it's also left smelling better than ever as this product has a delicious warm and floral fragrance with notes of peony and a light touch of comforting vanilla, that lingers on skin like a perfume. All tests of the Nativa SPA quinoa firming body lotion have been passed with straight As as user trials resulted in 95 per cent of testers noticing skins texture substantially improved, softer, and brighter in 28 days, while 91 per cent said skin was more radiant and healthy in appearance. 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To head into spring feeling more confident about your body, the quinoa firming body lotion is available to shop now on the Nativa SPA website. And if you'd like to work on other areas of the body in more detail, such as the hands, Nativa SPA offers products to help with that too. Here are some other highlights in the range: Budget airlines receive their fair share of complaints - but Frontier Airlines has found itself on the rather controversial end of some serious backlash after a traveler accused the company of 'scamming' customers with its luggage measurements. Travel expert and TikTok creator Tia, who posts under the handle @travelwithtia23, has claimed the airline has made its sizing bins smaller than the measurements listed online - alleging that it has done so in order to charge more people for their luggage at the gates. To prove this, Tia tested what bags fit in the carry-on and personal item sizing bins at Frontier Airlines compared to the ones provided by Spirit Airlines, who have the same size requirements, as per their websites. Tia took her bag, which she would take on as a personal item, explaining it should adhere to the required dimensions, and tried to fit it in the corresponding bin at the Frontier counter. TikTok creator Tia has claimed that Frontier Airlines is scamming people by making its sizing bins smaller than the actual requirements By doing this she says the company can charge people for their luggage at the gates, which is between $50 to $100, depending on the bag In the clip, she says that she is 'struggling' to put her bag into the bin, despite it fitting into the one at Spirit Airlines. 'It's supposed to be the exact same size and measurements as Spirit,' she explains while trying to cram her light-pink bag into the space. 'How they have made their sizer smaller than their actual requirements to scam people out their coins when they're trying to abide by the rules and policy that Frontier put in place for them,' she said. Tia then went over to the Spirit section to test their sizer - and found it fit right in. 'Their sizer is allegedly supposed to be the exact same size as Frontier's but look how smooth that bag goes in,' she shares, demonstrating the bag fitting comfortably. 'You be the judge,' she concluded. Tia's video was flooded with comments from travelers, some who agreed the sizing seemed smaller, while others thought Tia's baggage was too big. 'Since when did the personal size become that huge, I always thought personal item is usually like a laptop bag or a purse not an additional carry on,' one user questioned. Tia's video was flooded with comments from travelers, some whom agreed the sizing seemed smaller, while others thought Tia's baggage was too big 'Wait, that's a personal bag? I thought personal bag was like a purse or laptop bag?' another incredulous user commented. 'This is why budget airlines in the US just aren't worth it, other than a quick weekend trip with one small bag,' a third user chimed in. 'It's sad man I've seen so many people have to pay 99 dollars at the gate cause of this,' one flyer observed. 'There's that saying of you get what u pay for,' another joked. A spokesperson from Frontier told the DailyMail.com: 'The interior of our bag sizers are precisely equal to the measurements of our established bag size limitations.' In July 2023, a Florida woman has filed a $100 million class-action lawsuit against Frontier Airlines alleging the airline is not a budget airline. Amira Hamad filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, claiming it uses 'bait-and-switch' tactics when it comes to its baggage requirements and fees, charging up to $100 for added baggage costs. 'Frontier is not a budget airline. Frontier does have the lowest airfares,' the lawsuit stated. 'Frontier just breaks its fees into tiny little pieces and checkpoints to water down the appearance of what is actually an average airfare when combined and compared to the industry.' According to Frontier's website, the personal item included with a ticket must be a maximum of 14 inches high, 18 inches wide, and eight inches deep, including handles, wheels, and straps. The website states: 'Personal items must fit completely within the personal item portion of the bag sizer. Think purses, totes, computer bags, briefcases, and kids backpacks!' Cate Blanchett has left fans puzzled after stepping out at the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards without her wedding ring on Sunday night. The Australian actress, 54, who has been married to playwright Andrew Upton, 58, since 1997, stunned at the British film industry event in a maroon Louis Vuitton gown and striking body chain combo. However, rather than wearing her white gold and diamond wedding sparkler, the Blue Jasmine star sported a large emerald cocktail ring. Her husband didn't attend the event. Curiously, Cate was also spotted ring-free earlier this month, when she attended an event in New York at the Museum of Modern Art on February 6th. Joined by Sophie's Choice co-star Ethan Hawke, Cate oozed sophistication in a gradient-print grey pantsuit and lariat necklace. Cate made no attempt at hiding her bare wedding finger as she smiled for photos outside the exclusive event. In October 2023, Cate was once again seen without her wedding ring as she sat front row at the Stella McCartney runway show during Paris Fashion Week. Cate Blanchett has left fans puzzled after stepping out at the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards without her wedding ring on Sunday night Curiously, Cate was also spotted ring-free earlier this month, when she attended an event in New York at the Museum of Modern Art on February 6th In October 2023, Cate was once again seen without her wedding ring as she sat front row at the Stella McCartney runway show during Paris Fashion Week Instead the thespian wore a set of elegant gold bands on her wedding finger. Speaking to Woman's Day magazine on Monday, a source close to the couple said Cate's missing ring has sent off alarm bells about the status of her marriage. 'Seeing Cate without her ring has sent shockwaves through their friends. For the first time they're wondering if things aren't so rosy,' the insider claimed. A question mark has been hanging over Cate and Andrew's marriage for some time now. The couple also haven't been seen out on a date since August, when they were photographed enjoying a sun-drenched holiday in Ibiza. They also raised eyebrows earlier this month after putting their sprawling mansion in Prahran, Melbourne, on the market. Speaking to Woman's Day magazine on Monday, a source close to the couple said Cate's missing ring has sent off alarm bells about the status of her marriage. (Pictured: Andrew and Cate, October 2017) The three-bedroom family home, which the couple purchased in 2006, is set to be sold at auction with a price guide of $2.25million - $2.45million. Cate and Andrew have been living in the UK since 2015 and still own several other properties together. Their portfolio includes a glorious Victorian mansion in East Sussex, England, which they bought for 4.9 million (AU$9.4million) in 2015. The couple also own an investment property in Sydney's CBD. Cate and Andrew share three sons, Dashiell, 22, Roman, 19, and Ignatius, 16, and a daughter named Edith, eight. They also raised eyebrows earlier this month after Cate and Andrew they put their sprawling mansion in Prahran, Melbourne, on the market Robert Irwin has praised his family just days after his shock split from girlfriend Rorie Buckey. In a post to Instagram on Tuesday, Robert, 20, unveiled an adorable new black-and-white photograph with his family. In the image, Robert was seen kneeling on the grass at Australia Zoo alongside his mother Terri, sister Bindi, brother-in-law Chandler Powell and their two-year-old daughter Grace Warrior. Robert, who was holding a koala in the image, added the caption: 'Grateful for you all' [heart emoji].' Bindi, 25 was quick to comment with her support, writing: 'Love you so much'. Robert Irwin, 20, has praised his family (pictured) days after his split from girlfriend Rorie Buckey. He took to Instagram with this black-and-white photo of mother Terri, sister Bindi, brother-in-law Chandler Powell and their two-year-old daughter Grace Warrior, on Tuesday It comes days after Robert and girlfriend Rorie announced their split after almost two years of dating. The pair made the shock announcement in a joint statement shared to Rorie's Instagram Story on Saturday morning. 'We wanted to share that we have decided to go our separate ways but profoundly appreciate all the time spent together and wish one another all the very best into the future,' the statement read. Robert added the caption: 'Grateful for you all' [heart emoji].' 'We wish to express the gratitude and respect we have for one another as we continue our journeys on different paths. 'We won't be commenting further on this, and really appreciate your respect and privacy at this time.' The news that Irwin is now single again has excited his legions of female fans, who quickly took to social media to rejoice he is back on the market. It comes days after Robert and girlfriend Rorie (right) announced their split after almost two years of dating 'Irwin is single, now is my time,' one eager fan wrote. 'Robert being single is going to change the world for single ladies in Australia,' a second person added. 'He's single! I'm on my way to Australia,' a third person chipped in and another added: 'He's single, ladies!' The couple were believed to have been dating since November 2022, but went Instagram official in August 2023. The duo were last seen together looking smitten as they jetted out of Melbourne following their appearance at the Australian Open. Millie Ford has turned her hand to acting as she made her Home And Away debut this week. The popular TikTok star, 27, from Sydney, landed a cameo role on the hit Channel 7 soap opera and made her big arrival on Summer Bay in Tuesday night's episode. She starred as an influencer called Montana, which wasn't a far cry away from her own rise to fame posting viral parody videos on TikTok. Millie saw huge success with her uncanny imitations of everyday Aussie teachers, parents and shop assistants, and has racked up 1.5million followers on the platform. Now, she has turned her hand to acting and landed a role in the hugely popular soap opera, after aptly featuring as a school librarian in Aussie TV series Bump. TikTok star Millie Ford, 27, has turned her hand to acting as she made her Home And Away debut this week as influencer Montana (pictured in the role) During Millie's cameo, her character Montana moans to Rose Delaney (Kirsty Marillier) about having to do her community service. She leaves Rose infuriated as she keeps coming up with excuses not to do the weeding as she complains about needing to stay hydrated and having a mystery rash. When Rose argues that she has plenty of breaks during her shift, Montana hits back with: 'Yeah, no, the thing is with me, I need to look after myself, wait let me show you my socials babe'. The influencer from Sydney, landed a cameo role on the hit Channel 7 soap opera and made her big arrival on Summer Bay in Tuesday night's episode But Rose insists: 'No, I'm not interested in your socials so less chat, more weeding.' Montana moans: 'So easy for you, you've just got to stand there, while I'm getting assaulted by asparagus ferns. Why don't you give it a try?' 'Wait, I just got a rash. Wait. Yes genuinely, I've got a rash right there, can you not see that? Genuinely, it really hurts,' she adds. Millie rose to fame on TikTok with her uncanny imitations of everyday Aussie teachers, parents and shop assistants, and has racked up 1.5million followers on the platform When Rose tells her she won't be able to sign off her hours if she takes a break, Montana then reluctantly returns to the job at hand, while Justin Morgan (James Stewart) looks on amused. READ MORE: How a young woman quit her job in marketing to chase her dreams of becoming a TikTok star - as she reveals EXACTLY how she made the big time Advertisement After her Home And Away debut, Millie gushed that series regulars Justin, Kirsty and Kyle Shilling, who plays Mali Hudson, were 'amazing' to work with. 'I was just a sponge watching them work and everything went really quickly,' she told 7news. 'They also helped me to not feel self conscious, and I think that's really important because it just shows up on the camera. 'We were actually cracking up to the point where we almost couldn't hold it in on camera.' Millie also excitedly posted photographs and videos of her scenes to social media and gushed that the project was a 'dream come true'. The social media star has been passionate about acting since she was a child, when she was involved in school plays, and is now pursuing it as a career. Millie has secured herself an acting agent and a creative rep and hopes to nab more comedy roles in the future. The glamazon was previously working in social media and marketing before rising to viral fame, admitting she never considered that TikTok could turn into a career. She told Daily Mail Australia back in 2021: 'I am so grateful that I've had a platform to share my creativity and make people laugh. 'The support from my audience has been insane.' Drew Barrymore was treated to a fun surprise on Tuesday, two days before her 49th birthday. The longtime actress who recently opened up about her tumultuous past looked darling in a multicolor pleated pastel gown as she filmed her eponymous talk show in New York City. It was there that her co-star Ross Mathews and the rest of the television program's crew surprised her with a ride on an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. Barrymore was spotted exiting the hot dog-inspired vehicle with a huge grin on her face. Filming a special birthday episode of her CBS series, the star light brown hair was styled in a side part and loose curls as she pulled the locks back. Drew Barrymore was treated to a fun surprise on Tuesday, two days before her 49th birthday The longtime actress looked darling in a multicolor pleated pastel gown as she filmed her eponymous talk show in New York City It was there that her co-star Ross Mathews and the rest of the television program's crew surprised her with a ride on an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile Barrymore wore a pair of dramatic chandelier earrings with her light, bright ensemble. The dress had a plunging v-neck design and featured pink, peach, sorbet, yellow, and turquoise hues. She teamed the fun look with a pair of satin, baby pink platform high heels. The former child star was typically beautiful in a face of warm, peach-toned makeup. For his part, Matthews complemented Drew's look in a velvet mauve blazer teamed with a white shirt and black bowtie. He added black trousers and shiny, black, patent leather dress shoes. Ross' hair was neatly trimmed into a close crop with longer hair left at the top. The Drew Barrymore Show co-star appeared just as enthusiastic and bubbly as his friend and boss, whose hand he held during the exciting moment. Barrymore was spotted exiting the hot dog-inspired vehicle with a huge grin on her face Filming a special birthday episode of her CBS series, the star light brown hair was styled in a side part and loose curls as she pulled the locks back Barrymore wore a pair of dramatic chandelier earrings with her light, bright ensemble Drew recently opened up about she overcame tough years in her life. She has been sober since 2019, revealing in a wide-ranging chat with Us Weekly that she allowed herself to change her narrative. 'Ive had a bad girl narrative on my back my whole life. I thought I deserved bad things. Now Im raising two daughters. I cant do that to myself anymore,' she said of Olive, 11, and Frankie, 9, who she shares with ex-husband Will Koppelman. 'Kind of like the drinking, I'm picking off things one at a time, going, "I can't carry you anymore. You aren't good for me,'" she admitted. She added that she started drinking when she was just nine years old, but one day in 2019 she just thought, "Im never going to do this again." 'I dont have cravings. I have alcohol all over my house. I serve people drinks. Its a confident choice. But it took me 35 years to get there. So, once I got there, I was really done,' she said. Still, she said that getting sober was just part of the journey, because she still had to 'get in touch with why I was drinking like that.' The dress had a plunging v-neck design and featured pink, peach, sorbet, yellow, and turquoise hues The famous Oscar Mayer wheels were spotted parked outside of CBS studios in the Big Apple 'It was my coping mechanism. I loved the way that alcohol emboldened me. The anxiety went away. It makes you feel like an immortal that can handle anything. And then the next day you are living in that chemical aftermath and you feel worse,' she said. 'It wasnt a new concept to me; it was something I knew my whole life did not work for me. I kept saying, Ill master this one day. 'And sometimes its as simple as just getting so sick of yourself wanting to do something for the majority of your life, and one day, it finally clicks,' Barrymore shared. She added that while her personal life has always been a, 'work in progress,' the professional in her 'feels really brave and never entitled. Always so privileged and grateful.' Daisy Lowe led the glamorous arrivals at the Pendulum App Closing Party during London Fashion Week at Home House on Tuesday night. The model, 35, who welcomed her first child 10 months ago, cut a stylish figure in a black lace corset which she wore with a slouchy navy co-ord. Daisy wore her sleek black loose in a loose style and opted for light make-up with a slick of matte red lipstick to complete the look. During the night, the DJ jumped on a set of decks to entertain the guests at the party, who included Made In Chelsea's Sophie Herman and Amber Le Bon. Amber, 34, put on a chic display in a loose-fitting black silk dress with a floral print, which she teamed with a pair of lace detail heels. Daisy Lowe led the glamorous arrivals at the Pendulum App Closing Party during London Fashion Week at Home House on Tuesday night The model, 35, who welcomed her first child 10 months ago, cut a stylish figure in a black lace corset which she wore with a slouchy navy co-ord During the night, the DJ jumped on a set of decks to entertain the guests at the party, who included Made In Chelsea 's Sophie Herman and Amber Le Bon Meanwhile, Sophie, 37, looked glamorous in a black suit with gem-encrusted lapels , which the reality star styled with a pair of red heels. Sophie wore her blonde hair sleeked back into a ponytail and opted for glam make-up, while accessorising with a pair of dazzling earrings. Daisy and and her fiance Jordan welcomed baby Ivy into the world in April 2023, announcing the happy news via Instagram. She wrote at the time: 'Our Easter egg finally hatched! Ivy Love Saul you have made all my dreams come true - our dream girl. 'I have never known happiness or love like this. I cant stop crying tears of joy. Happy Easter Loves.' She announced her pregnancy on Instagram in October 2022, as she posted a sweet snap of her bump - admitting she was 'oscillating wildly between excitement and nervousness'. It came just weeks after she and Jordan confirmed their engagement, with the property developer popping the question after two years of dating. Daisy has been candid about postpartum life since welcoming baby Ivy and said she is 'very proud of what my body has achieved'. Daisy flashed a pearly white smile as she became the life of the party As Daisy kept the music alive through the night many celeb friends swooned over her talents as Alfie Goofey posed with the music sensation As Daisy stepped out on the red carpet she put on a very busty display in a lace bralette and no shirt Amber, 34, put on a chic display in a loose-fitting black silk dress with a floral print, which she teamed with a pair of lace detail heels Meanwhile, Sophie, 37, looked glamorous in a black suit with gem-encrusted lapels , which the reality star styled with a pair of red heels Amber later added a black overcoat and metallic bag to her look Victoria Brown dazzled in a glitzy hot pink suit which features small silver studs embezzled through out the entire garment The model and presenter added a pair of heels and styled her hair into curls Nadiya Bychkova was also spotted at the glitzy after party as she stepped out in a tailored white blazer and nude sheer skirt The Ukranian dancer, 34, put on a busty display for the star-studded evening as she opted to ditch her bra and t-shirt for the boozy affair Roxy Horner showcased her unique sense of style as she opted for a red and black blotch two piece pant suit The 32-year-old model added inches to her statuesque figure as she wore a pair of towering shiny black stilettoes Roxy accessorised her statement look with a pair of gold bejewelled earrings and simple gold chain The party was organised by Lara Accison and Joe Hagan Posing in a bikini three months after giving birth, she wrote on her Instagram page: '3 months of motherhood & this is where I am at. I am still breastfeeding. I am still me 'I have to remember that 3 months isnt that long for my body to recover. I am feeling so overwhelmed with love and magic as well as exhaustion 'I am sat here as Ivy has her nap. Everyone says that you should sleep while the baby sleeps Ive never been very good at listening to what everyone says. 'I am trying to remember to be gentle on myself, that my body made our sassy little angel. 'This picture was taken in a moment when I was feeling very proud of what my body has achieved and I popped on my bikini for the first time. 'Biggest love and respect to all the humans out there trying to love their own incredible bodies. We are all made of stardust.' Paris Smith turned heads in an asymmetric leather dress Harrison Osterfield opted for a black and gold blazer Joshua Kane looked as stylish as ever Susana Renteria looked incredible in a mesh panelled jumpsuit Amber Le Bon looked sensational as always, as she rocked up to the event in a black satin floral dress which featured delicate white flowers The Flag Twins posed for a fun photo at the party Sophie chanelled her inner Dorothy for the event as she flaunted her toes in sparkly red strappy heels which matched her impeccable rouge manicure Sophie wore her blonde hair sleeked back into a ponytail and opted for glam make-up She accessorised with a pair of dazzling earrings and an oversized coat thrown over her shoulders Malin Andersson has spoken out after checking into a 12,000 rehab clinic to battle drink and drug abuse. The former Love Island star, 31, who rose to fame on the second series of the show in 2016, signed up for a three-week programme after losing control after self-medicating following a series of personal tragedies. Television personality Malin lost her baby daughter Consy in January 2019 when she died a month after she was born, just weeks after Malin's mother Consy-Gloria died following a battle with cancer. Reality star Malin welcomed another daughter in January 2022 but split from the baby's father Jared soon after she arrived. Malin has also lost her father to cancer, battled eating disorders, lost friends to suicide and survived domestic abuse. Malin Andersson has spoken out after checking into a 12,000 rehab clinic to battle drink and drug abuse The former Love Island star, 31, signed up for a three-week programme after losing control after self-medicating following a series of personal tragedies (pictured in 2022) Following her split from her ex Jared in 2022, Malin says her drink and drug use spiralled out of control and he suggested she seek help. Despite not thinking she had a problem at first, Malin checked herself into a recovery programme. She told The Sun: 'I don't drink every day. I don't wake up and want to drink. Sometimes I can go two months without it. But I was using alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism.' On how much she drunk, she explained: 'I would drink a lot. It could be three bottles of wine, or champagne, or whatever, then shots 'Drugs weren't involved all the time, but they were if I was with the wrong crowd. 'Then I'd go back to normal and that would last for a few weeks - then the cycle would be repeated again.' Malin said she felt 'ashamed and guilty' of the position in which she found herself, adding that going to rehab sounded 'nuts'. She said alcohol became a crutch and she decided to check into a facility for three weeks of intensive therapy. The TV star told in December last year how she was struggling with her health (pictured in December last year) Malin told how she found it extremely difficult to be away from her daughter Xaya for the three weeks but insisted it was the right thing to do. The TV star told in December last year how she was struggling with her health. She told her social media followers that she was feeling lonely as she struggled to sleep with a health complaint. While posing with no makeup and messy hair, the star shared the reality of being a mother as she sat on her bed, exhausted, after battling with her child to bed. Malin has spent the last year focusing on her health and 'internal healing', after welcoming her daughter, Xaya. In the very honest post, she looked away from the camera as she smiled sarcastically in her red, white and green reindeer pyjamas as she revealed she has been suffering from a hernia. She captioned the post: 'Wow look at that face. 'Tired Ma with a hurting hernia. While posing with no makeup and messy hair, the former Love Island star shared the reality of being a mother as she sat on her bed, exhausted 'I am posting on instagram at 3-40am so see if there are any mums up. it can feel sooooooooo lonely especially in the middle of the night. Throw Christmas into the mix with lack of sleep and Hermione the hernia it's a no brainer. 'So it took Xaya 2 hours to get to sleep.. and now she's been up since 3am screaming to sleep in my bed. Now she's in my bed because I'm so tired and have work to do tomorrow she isn't sleeping she's finding it so funny. 'Is this a sleep regression or what the heck is it feel like I've gone back in time she's 2 next month. 'Anyways this one's for my Mumma's. I see you. The beauty I take from this is the gratitude to have Xaya in my life - especially over a period where grief hits me HARD! 'Love you all x.' Her followers flooded her comments with support and stories of their own as parents from across the country sympathised with the doting mother. One fan commented: 'I feel you. Mine is 2 next month and the last 2 weeks he's been so bad at going down for a nap and nighttime. We sleep trained before so he was really good at going down but this regression has by far been the worst. '2 weeks in and apparently this one can last up to 6 weeks he went down at 7pm lash night after falling asleep during his milk (wouldn't nap during the day) then was awake at 10pm for an hour and then 2am for an half hour. It's so hard. 'We both work FT and we've tried to co sleep but we can't do it. I feel you but remember this will pass xxxx' Another wrote: 'Never have to justify bringing little one into bed. Work or no work the next day, always do what you have to do to get through. Mummyhood is hard. Single-mummyhood is hard. We tend to go into justification mode because society judges. It's hard not to. All that matters, though, is you and your little one. Her followers flooded her comments with support and stories of their own as parents sympathised with the doting mother 'And don't spend too long worrying about whether it's regression or what. They're humans and go through phases. Each phase passes and you will both be fine. Again, just do what you need to get through.' The update came after the TV personality went silent for weeks after she announced she was having a mammogram on her right breast. Malin has since embarked on a healthy lifestyle and has spoken about the brutal trolling she received on Instagram following her recent weight loss, despite being clear about doing it healthily and feeling better than ever. She recalled that she has 'never known anything like it' since making a healthy lifestyle change. Tiffany Haddish faced flak on social media on Tuesday as she shared a clip from the first-class cabin of a flight bound for Israel, where she said she was visiting to get a better understanding of its ongoing conflict with Hamas. Haddish, 44, spoke to her more than 7.4 million followers on Instagram as she relaxed in business class and nursed an orange juice. Haddish noted that she was 'sleepy as hell' and had planned to rest over the course of the 16-hour flight ahead of her as she departed out of Los Angeles. The Emmy-winning actress-comic said she planned on visiting locations including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the Dead Sea in an effort to gain more knowledge on the conflict, which began October 7 after Hamas rampaged a music festival in southern Israel, slaughtering around 1,200 people and taking hostage another 250. 'This is an educational trip for me ... Im gonna learn about the politics,' Haddish said. 'See, I feel like I cant believe I see everything on the Internet ... I need to go see for myself, Im one of those people.' Tiffany Haddish, 44, faced flak on social media on Tuesday as she shared a clip from the first-class cabin of a flight bound for Israel, where she said she was visiting to get a better understanding of its ongoing conflict with Hamas Haddish spoke to her more than 7.4 million followers on Instagram as she relaxed in business class and nursed an orange juice She added, 'Im gonna go see for myself, Im gonna go see, Im gonna go see all of it, Im gonna ask questions - see with my own eyes.' Haddish said she didn't 'believe everything' she sees on social media, citing her own personal experiences in which information posted about her turned out to be incorrect. She said, 'I know a lot of stuff on social media be not true because ... I see stuff people say about me, and I live my life - I'm living my life and Im like, "Thats not what I said, thats not true."' Haddish said she wanted to form her own opinion based off experience before she spoke publicly on the topic, adding that she's personally heard from people on both sides of the conflict. 'Im gonna go see and then Im gonna tell yall what I think, Im gonna go see with my own eyes,' Haddish said. Haddish said she 'did not like' things she has seen online about the ongoing conflict, and felt it was safe to travel to Israel after seeing others do so. 'I know a lot of people that have gone; so many people have gone and then come back alive, come back fine,' she said. 'So I want to go see - I want to go see, and we gonna see what it is and Ill show yall some of it while Im there. 'Im gonna go talk to people, Im gonna go find out why is this happening? Why is this going down?' A picture taken Tuesday inn southern Israel shows destroyed buildings in the Gaza Strip amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas The Emmy-winning actress-comic said she planned on visiting locations including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the Dead Sea in an effort to gain more knowledge on the conflict Haddish said she 'did not like' things she has seen online about the ongoing conflict, and felt it was safe to travel to Israel after seeing others do so One user noted how Haddish's luxurious travels - 'First class, I see' - undermined the devastation of the ongoing conflict One commenter said that Haddish was 'clowning for clout' with the international trip Among the torrent of reactions, one commenter suggested Haddish take the matter more seriously In response to one commenter who asked why she wasn't going to the Gaza Strip, Haddish replied, 'Who said I wasn't going to Gaza? 'I said I was gonna see with my own eyes, got to go to Israel first and isn't Gaza in Israel? Ain't it all on the same little piece of land, same ... surrounded by water?' (Gaza borders Israel and Egypt.) The comment section was a blend of reactions, with some wishing her a safe trip, and others saying she was behaving in a manner too cavalier while headed to the battle-torn region. One user noted how Haddish's luxurious travels - 'First class, I see' - undermined the devastation of the ongoing conflict, while another one commenter suggested Haddish take the matter more seriously. Another commenter said that Haddish was 'clowning for clout' with the international trip. A user advised Haddish to visit the entirety of the region to get the full story. 'Go to Gaza. Not just Tel Aviv,' the user said. 'Then come back and report. Otherwise it's like just going to Wall Street and say you've seen all of New York.' Many users expressed their personal political opinions on the conflict in relation to Haddish's travels. 'The fact you can fly and "holiday" in Israel but Gaza is pretty much destroyed gives you all the information you really need,' the user said. 'This isnt a war, its genocide.' Another said, 'Yeah I'm out. You're on the wrong side of history,' the the hashtag, #FREEPALESTINE. Some commenters expressed disgust with Haddish's demeanor, while others wished her well The comment section was a blend of reactions, with some saying she seemed too cavalier on her trip to the battle-torn region Said one user: 'Do some work to learn about the harms of white supremacy and settler colonialism in Palestine. White Europeans stole the land of indigenous Palestinians and murdered or displaced most of them. 'Palestinians continue to live under occupation and settler colonialism to this day. Palestinians are continuing to be ethnically cleansed by Israelis. We are witnessing a genocide committed by the Israeli military against the Palestinian people live.' Another user said, 'Girl, you better be joking. This s*** isnt funny and very disappointing.' Beyonce has made history, yet again, after becoming the first Black woman to top the Hot Country Songs chart with her hit track, Texas Hold Em. Her feat comes after receiving praise for both of her new country songs from some of the genre's top artists, including Maren Morris and Lainey Wilson, who warmly welcomed the 42-year-old superstar into the country music community this week. Texas Hold 'Em, which was released on February 11 and serviced to country radio just two days later, pushed back Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves duet, I Remember Everything, from the top spot, where it has sat for 20 weeks. The 32-time Grammy winner's other country track, 16 Carriages, which dropped on the same day as Texas Hold 'Em, debuted at number 9. Beyonce has made history, yet again, after becoming the first black woman to top the Hot Country Songs chart with her hit track, Texas Hold Em Her feat comes after receiving praise for both of her new country songs from some of the genre's top artists, including Maren Morris and Lainey Wilson, who warmly welcomed the 42-year-old superstar into the country music community this week Both of the mother-of-three's songs were announced in a Verizon commercial that aired during CBS broadcast of Super Bowl LVIII. The wife of rapper Jay-Z is set to release an entire country album, titled Act II, on March 29 as a follow-up to her 2022 Renaissance LP. According to Billboard, Texas Hold Em received '19.2 million official streams and 4.8 million in all-format airplay audience and sold 39,000 in the U.S. through February 15.' Meanwhile, the outlet added that 16 Carriages drew '10.3 million streams, 90,000 in radio reach and 14,000 sold.' She is currently the first and only woman to have topped both Hot Country Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. The performer's latest accomplishment comes after her fans forced a country music radio station to play Texas Hold 'Em after they initially refused. Last week, a Twitter user under the handle @jussatto said that the Ada, Oklahoma-based country music station KYKC had declined their request to play her new single Texas Hold 'Em. 'I requested Texas Hold Em at my local country radio station (KYKC) and after requesting, i received an email from the radio station stating "We do not play Beyonce on KYKC as we are a country music station,"' the social media user said, along with a screenshot of the reply they received from the radio station. Texas Hold 'Em, which was released on February 11 and serviced to country radio just two days later, pushed back Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves duet, I Remember Everything, from the top spot, where it has sat for 20 weeks The 32-time Grammy winner's other country track, 16 Carriages, which dropped on the same day as Texas Hold 'Em, debuted at number 9 The user added: 'This station needs to be held accountable for their blatant racism and discrimination against Beyonce.' The posts garnered multiple responses from Beyonce fans upset with the purported exclusion. The Twitter user subsequently told TMZ that their initial request to the station read: 'Please play the new song, Texas Hold 'Em by Beyonce,' adding they believed that the station should have been aware Beyonce was set to release new music in the country genre. The performer's latest accomplishment comes after her fans forced a country music radio station to play Texas Hold 'Em after they initially refused A rep for the station told TMZ last Tuesday that the reason they hasn't played the songs - Texas Hold 'Em and 16 Carriages - is that they have not been provided with them. Another local station, KECO, confirmed to the outlet that it had not been sent copies of the songs. The station KYKC did ultimately receive copies of the tracks, as it told TMZ and began playing Texas Hold 'Em Tuesday. At the time, it tweeted a screenshot of its playlist, acknowledging that the single was now in its rotation: 'Lots of call coming in for Beyonces Texas Hold Em. Its coming up in minutes.' Act II is Beyonce's eighth studio album. Chloe Lewis has shared a look at her holiday wardrobe after jetting off with her son Beau on a sun-soaked getaway this week. The former TOWIE star, 32, posted a gallery of her 'holiday fits', including several bikini-clad snaps as she posed for mirror selfies in her hotel. Chloe, who split from her ex Danny Flasher last year, showcased her gym-honed physique in a white bikini, which she styled with a crochet maxi skirt and a straw hat. The mother of one also modelled a yellow bikini, which looked super chic with a pale blue co-ord and chunky sandals. Chloe's third look included a white bikini with a beige linen co-ord, while she styled her ombre locks up in a messy up do. Chloe Lewis has shared a look at her holiday wardrobe after jetting off with her son Beau on a sun-soaked getaway this week The mother of one also modelled a yellow bikini, which looked super chic with a pale blue co-ord and chunky sandals In another killer look, Chloe slipped into a form-fitting leopard print cover-up, which she wore over a high-waited black bikini. Elsewhere, she sported a khaki bikini with a crochet top, as well as a white crop top and green joggers in another sweet photo. Showing off one of her evening looks, Chloe sported a black bikini top with a pair of slouchy trousers with a cream blazer. Earlier this year, Chloe shared more of an insight into her split from her boyfriend Danny. Chloe announced in November she had split from the businessman, who she shares son Beau, four, with, after seven years. Chloe said she has had a 'terrible' two years which culminated in the breakdown of their relationship. Speaking on Kelsey Parker's Mum's The Word! podcast, Chloe said she was 'grieving' the loss of her relationship. The reality star said she became increasingly lonely after moving to Dubai back in 2020 for stockbroker Danny's work. In another killer look, Chloe slipped into a form-fitting leopard print cover-up, which she wore over a high-waited black bikini Elsewhere, she sported a khaki bikini with a crochet top, as well as a white crop top and green joggers in another sweet photo Showing off one of her evening looks, Chloe sported a black bikini top with a pair of slouchy trousers with a cream blazer Chloe found herself struggling with being a full-time mum while her family were thousands of miles away. She said: 'I lost myself. I didn't have much out there. I wasn't working there. 'It's been a really tough two years between us both and nothing really happened, it was just differences of people and not growing together but growing apart. 'It was the saddest thing I have ever. It's made me b****y strong, I'll tell you that.' Chloe added: 'It's really hard because you don't ever see yourself splitting from that person. Danny's a fantastic dad, he's really good. He idolises Beau.' Following the podcast, the television personality spoke more about her break-up with a Q and A on her Instagram stories. When one follower asked if no contact with an ex after a break-up is the best way forward, Chloe replied: 'I think so for sure! Out of sight, out of mind. That obviously doesn't happen when you have a baby together it's a lot harder but just focus on yourself.' Another asked: 'Is Beau's Dad involved in this upbringing?', to which she said: 'Yes very much so. They are best friends and wouldn't have it any other way.' Tommy Little was left speechless on Wednesday after Today Extra host Sylvia Jeffreys asked him a seemingly racy question about his upcoming comedy show. The comedian, 38, appeared on the morning program to plug his stand up show, Tommy Little Has A Regular Size Deck and its title features play-on words to display a somewhat sexual innuendo. During the Today Extra segment, Tommy began by clarifying the name of his show. 'Can I just emphasise the show is called I have a regular size deck,' he told co-hosts Sylvia, 37, and Richard Wilkins. 'It's an important emphasis to put on it. Because I realised if I'm doing promos in New Zealand, it sounds very different.' Tommy Little (right) was left speechless by Today Extra host Sylvia Jeffreys (centre) on Wednesday morning after she asked him a seemingly racy question about his comedy show Sylvia opened the interview by asking how big Tommy's 'deck' is. 'Exactly how average is your deck?' she asked, to which a shocked Richard added, 'Sylvia...' Tommy stammered and stumbled on his words before attempting to answer. 'It's less than... It's... That's a really sleazy question to start the interview. But I'm here for it,' he said as the host's giggled. 'It's less than impressive. They say "under promise and over deliver", but I just under promise and under deliver.' Sylvia opened the interview by asking how big Tommy's 'deck' is Richard Wilkins looked less than impressed by the awkwardly crude remarks Meanwhile, Richard looked less than impressed by the awkwardly crude remarks. Tommy kicks off his series of comedy gigs this weekend at the Adelaide Fringe Festival. He will continue in March before making a few regional stops in Victoria and then heading to the Gold Coast. The comedian is also set to take the stage in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth Comedy Festivals, before heading back for more stints in New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania from June to August. Tommy kicks off his series of comedy gigs at Adelaide Fringe Festival this weekend, followed by another show in March In September, Tommy revealed his shock new career change after being removed as a regular panellist of The Project. He announced on Instagram he was an author and had a new book titled 'Who Took My Nuts?' 'My kids book is here! I hope you love it,' Tommy wrote alongside a video of him signing a copy. 'It's in all good book stores and online and for the first week it's only ten bucks. After the first week it goes up to $40,000 dollars per copy.' In September, Tommy revealed his shock new career change after being removed as a regular panellist of The Project Married At First Sight brides Lauren Dunn and Sara Mesa defied producers and secretly met up before attending Wednesday's dinner party. Daily Mail Australia spotted the PR maven, 32, and nutritionist, 29, getting their hair and makeup done at Blonde Ink Salon in Sydney's Darlinghurst on September 4. Despite producers warning the cast against any 'catch ups', Lauren and Sara didn't have a care in the world, spending several hours together before call time. The dynamic-duo narrowly missed fellow bride Eden Harper, who was seen arriving at the same salon just minutes after their appointment. Lauren looked stylish in a $7500 Gucci trench coat which she teamed up with a pair of slim-fitting jeans and Isabel Marant heels. Married At First Sight brides Lauren Dunn and Sara Mesa defied producers and secretly met up before attending Wednesday's dinner party Daily Mail Australia spotted the PR maven, 32, and nutritionist, 29, getting their hair and makeup done at Blonde Ink Salon in Sydney's Darlinghurst on September 4 Her blonde hair was styled in loose waves, and she appeared to be wearing minimal makeup. Sara looked chic in a maroon trench coat over a white top tucked into high-waisted navy blue pants. The Sydney-based beauty completed her look with tan shoes, and had her hair pulled back into a casual bun. Despite producers warning the cast against any 'catch ups' Lauren and Sara didn't have a care in the world, spending several hours together before call time Lauren looked stylish in a $7500 Gucci trench coat which she teamed up with a pair of slim-fitting jeans and Isabel Marant heels Sara looked chic in a maroon trench coat over a white top tucked into high-waisted navy blue pants As previously reported by Daily Mail Australia, Lauren and Sara's friendship blossomed off-screen, an aspect that will be unveiled as the series progresses. Sara opened up about their connection, explaining: 'It was at the first dinner party where we bonded over discussing Jack and what happened with Jack. Our personalities clicked instantly. Lauren's wit complements our outspoken natures.' 'You'll see a lot of what happens throughout the series is me and Lauren tag teaming other people and pulling out their bad behaviour, but hopefully you start to see our friendship unfold soon because Lauren and I are still very much besties.' Brandan and Mary Denuccio are facing scrutiny, after they seemingly backtracked on their claim that she had colon cancer, following their fundraising efforts. The couple, who star on reality TV series 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way and married last year, had their fundraising page, on the platform GoGetFunding, shut down, after they admitted that Mary has not been diagnosed, but had been experiencing symptoms she saw in TikTok videos. Brandan, 24, posted on Instagram over the weekend about the fundraising page he created to help pay for surgery to 'remove [Mary's] colon cancer' and 'save her life.' 'We need help not judgements,' he added in the post. On the page, Mary, 24, wrote that she had been 'diagnosed with colon cancer' on Friday, after experiencing symptoms on and off since high school, which she thought were 'normal.' However, after some began doubting the claims, the pair clarified that there was no official diagnosis, and that they were still awaiting results. Brandan and Mary Denuccio, both 24, are facing scrutiny, after they seemingly backtracked on their claim that she had colon cancer, following their fundraising efforts Their GoGetFunding page has since been shut down, with a message reading, 'GoGetFunding has been requested or required to stop this campaign.' It was unclear first if the campaign - which raised about $1,300 or so before it was shut down - was stopped by Brandon and Mary of the company. But a representative for GoGetFunding has since told TMZ that they stopped the campaign, after it was flagged by users for being suspicious, and after they felt they had enough evidence to take it down. As far as donations, there is no clear path for refunds, and the representative suggested anyone who donated and has since changed their mind will have to dispute the charges with their banks. However Brandan and Mary told TMZ they were the ones to halt the campaign, due to people's negative comments. Mary told the publication: 'I know i announced i have colon cancer. Its just im so scared that time because i was in pain and i got all the symptoms. But we are still going back and forth to the hospital and have do all the laboratory requested by the doctors.' She also added she would no longer post about the matter. The couple previously released a statement which backtracked on their initial claim, writing: 'Just to be clear: We don't know if Mary have colon cancer yet. Yes she posted on her IG that she have colon cancer because she watch TikTok videos of what is the symptoms of colon cancer and she have all of it.' The couple, who star on reality TV series 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way and married last year, had their Go Fund Me page shut down, after they admitted that Mary has not been diagnosed, but had been experiencing symptoms she saw in TikTok videos They released a statement which read: 'Just to be clear: We don't know if Mary have colon cancer yet. Yes she posted on her IG that she have colon cancer because she watch TikTok videos of what is the symptoms of colon cancer and she have all of it' Meanwhile Mary posted to her Instagram discussing her financial issues after her Facebook page had been reported Mary also posted a snap of them at the hospital with a lengthy caption thanking Brandan for being with her in her 'worst times' 'And on Feb. 16 we went to the CENTER and have her check up and the nurse said maybe she got a UTI or Appendicitis and a possible colon cancer that's why Mary is very scared.' 'So the nurse gives us referral to admit Mary at the city hospital and we went there next day. We went to the ER and we talked to the doctor and the doctor said that Mary needs laboratory first so we did that.' 'We go to laboratory and have her pee and poop on a cup and have her blood test. And we wait for the result. After an hour the result is there and the doctor also said that Mary have Blood infection.' 'And Mary needs WHOLE ABDOMEN ULTRASOUND for and X RAY. And we did that. And then we got the result. The result is in our hand right now and we need to go back to the hospital tomorrow to give it to the OPD to analyze the result of her Ultrasound and X-Ray.' 'And the doctor said we need to wait for the result and he will send us to another doctor the (gastroenterologist) for referral to of the colonoscopy. We are still.. Mary's still in pain. Please stop spreading fake news.' Meanwhile Mary posted to her Instagram discussing her financial issues after her Facebook page had been reported. 'You reported my Facebook and that's the only one that helps me to make money for my child and my family. Idk what to do now. I lost courage I lost faith. Seeing all you comments gives me a lot of pain.' 'I'm the only one providing food for my family and needs to my child. Now that I hav health problems I can't work as a call center agent anymore because I'm night shirt and that's bad for my health.' Mary welcomed daughter Midnight in August. She got pregnant just three months after Brandan moved from the U.S. to the Philippines to be with her Despite some ups and downs in their relationship, he proposed to Mary in October 2023. The pair said 'I do' in April 2023 The couple first came into the spotlight after they were featured on season 5 of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way, which premiered in July 2023 'When I die I want all the bashers to know that it's not very good to bash and judge people and say bad things to people who you don't really know. I want you to realize that when I die.' Mary also posted a snap of them at the hospital with a lengthy caption thanking Brandan for being with her in her 'worst times.' Mary welcomed daughter Midnight in August. She got pregnant just three months after Brandan moved from the U.S. to the Philippines to be with her. The couple first came into the spotlight after they were featured on season 5 of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way, which premiered in July 2023. They had been dating virtually for over two years and Brandan was planning to visit Mary in the Philippines for the first time. Despite some ups and downs in their relationship, he proposed to Mary in an October 2023 episode of the show. The pair said 'I do' in April 2023. Advertisement Margaret Qualley and Beanie Feldstein were dressed to the nines on Tuesday night as they led stars at the New York City premiere of their new film Drive-Away Dolls. The duo hit the red carpet with their co-star Geraldine Viswanathan in glamorous looks at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater ahead of a screening of the comedy flick. Qualley, 29 who is married to Taylor Swift's longtime collaborator looked chic while posing in a sleeveless black lace dress with sparkly crystal accents. The sheer frock was worn over a nude bra and black high-waisted shapewear shorts. She styled her brunette hair in an updo with a large black bow that matched the bow on her bedazzled ballet flats. Margaret Qualley and Beanie Feldstein were dressed to the nines on Tuesday night as they led stars at the New York City premiere of their new film Drive-Away Dolls The duo hit the red carpet with their co-star Geraldine Viswanathan in glamorous looks at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater ahead of a screening of the comedy flick As for makeup, Qualley let her enviable brows steal focus by wearing just a few coats of mascara, soft peach blush and clear lip gloss. Although he skipped the red carpet, Qualley's husband Jack Antonoff made it in time for the screening. The music producer was photographed arriving to AMC Lincoln Square Theater with his entourage. She and Antonoff wed in New Jersey last August during an intimate ceremony attended by his longtime friend Taylor Swift. Qualley looked thrilled to be reunited with Feldstein and Viswanathan, both of whom greeted her with a hug on the red carpet. Feldstein, 30, stunned onlookers in a strapless silver metallic gown boasting a black floral pattern. The Broadway alum gave her outfit an edgy vibe by wearing a black mesh top and shiny black platform heels. She accessorized with a sparkly diamond choker necklace and slicked her hair back into a bun. Qualley who is married to Taylor Swift's longtime collaborator looked chic while posing in a sleeveless black lace dress with sparkly crystal accents The sheer frock was worn over a nude bra and black high-waisted shapewear Beanie Feldstein stunned onlookers in a strapless silver metallic gown boasting a black floral pattern The Broadway alum gave her outfit an edgy vibe by wearing a black mesh top and shiny black platform heels Feldstein was joined at the premiere by her wife Bonnie-Chance Roberts The couple packed on the PDA as they shared a kiss for the cameras The couple wed in May 2023 Qualley looked thrilled to be reunited with Feldstein and Viswanathan Geraldine Viswanathan put on a busty display in a flirty fuchsia frock with a low, ruffled neckline The floor-length dress hugged tightly at the waist, highlighting her hourglass shape The Blockers star kept her makeup light and natural for the starry event Qualley and Viswanathan put on an animated display The ladies cheered on the film's cast and crew as they arrived Drive-Away Dolls is the latest project for director/producer Ethan Coen known for Fargo (1996) and No Country for Old Men (2007) Coen co-wrote the script with his wife and acclaimed film producer Tricia Cooke Feldstein was joined at the premiere by her wife Bonnie-Chance Roberts. The couple who wed in May 2023 packed on the PDA as they shared a kiss for the cameras. Viswanathan, 28, put on a busty display in a flirty fuchsia frock with a low, ruffled neckline. The floor-length dress hugged tightly at the waist, highlighting her hourglass shape. The Blockers star kept her makeup light and natural for the starry event. Drive-Away Dolls follows two young women, Jamie (Qualley) and Marian (Viswanathan), as they embark on an unexpected road trip to Tallahassee in the hopes of a fresh start. But the trip takes a turn when the ladies cross paths with a group of inept criminals, as per IMDb. It's the latest project for director/producer Ethan Coen known for Fargo (1996) and No Country for Old Men (2007). C.J. Wilson who plays 'Flint' suited up for the occasion in gray Steve Buscemi was on hand for the celebration in NYC with his girlfriend Karen Ho The Amber Ruffin Show host Amber Ruffin cut a stylish figure in a beige suit with a black and white pinstripe vest Annie Gonzalez who plays 'Carla' wowed in a sleeveless beige sweater dress that she styled with a gold chrome purse Joey Slotnick who plays Arliss rocked a classic black suit for the film's big night in NYC Although he skipped the red carpet, Qualley's husband Jack Antonoff made it in time for the screening The music producer was photographed arriving to AMC Lincoln Square Theater Viswanathan was first photographed exiting her car outside the theater Drive-Away Dolls follows two young women, Jamie (Qualley) and Marian (Viswanathan), as they embark on an unexpected road trip to Tallahassee in the hopes of a fresh start But the trip takes a turn when the ladies cross paths with a group of inept criminals, as per IMDb He co-wrote the script with his wife and acclaimed film producer Tricia Cooke. The comedy-thriller also stars Matt Damon, Pedro Pascal and Colman Domingo. Drive-Away Dolls hits theaters on Friday, February 23. Steve Buscemi who was work frequently with Coen was on hand for the celebration in NYC with his girlfriend Karen Ho. Margaret beamed while sitting on the lap of her mother Andie MacDowell at the premiere Andie and daughter Margaret flashed their cute smiles Jack Antonoff and wife Margaret also teamed up for a photo at the premiere John Turturro smiled while catching up with Andie at the premiere Margaret, Beanie and Geraldine got together for a group photo inside Ben Platt and Beanie leaned into each other Friends star David Schwimmer and Joey Slotnick also were spotted at the premiere Christopher Abbott, Jerrod Carmichael, Jack and Margaret squeezed in for a photo together Margaret, Beanie, Tricia Cook, Geraldine Viswanathan, Annie Gonzalez and Ethan Coen got together for a group photo Manchester By The Sea star C.J. Wilson who plays 'Flint' suited up for the occasion in charcoal gray. The Amber Ruffin Show host Amber Ruffin cut a stylish figure in a beige suit with a black and white pinstripe vest. Annie Gonzalez who plays 'Carla' wowed in a sleeveless beige sweater dress that she styled with a gold chrome purse. Joey Slotnick who plays Arliss rocked a classic black suit for the film's big night in NYC. Nearly a year after 'Scandoval' - Tom Sandoval claimed his ex-girlfriend Ariana Madix physically assaulted him upon discovering his seven-month affair with her friend Rachel Leviss on March 1. The 40-year-old Vanderpump Rules star alleged the altercation happened in the back alley behind Tom Tom Restaurant & Bar in West Hollywood. Tom told The New York Times Magazine on Tuesday that the 38-year-old Chicago thespian split his lip and ripped his chain off: 'She beat my a**.' Sandoval had been performing with his cover band The Most Extras when she found an explicit 'screen recording of them on FaceTime' on his phone: 'It was literally from the night before.' Ariana immediately called Rachel to confront her, and she admitted the affair with had started with a tryst inside her car following the death of Madix's dog Charlotte on August 2, 2022. Nearly a year after 'Scandoval' - Tom Sandoval (M) claimed his ex-girlfriend Ariana Madix (R) physically assaulted him upon discovering his seven-month affair with her friend Rachel Leviss (L) on March 1 The 40-year-old Vanderpump Rules star alleged the altercation happened in the back alley behind Tom Tom Restaurant & Bar in West Hollywood (pictured in 2022) 'My emotions were clearly all over the place,' the former DWTS contestant recalled of the moment on the 10th season finale. 'And he was angry at me. Angry... at me!' And while there's no evidence Ariana ever hit the St. Louis native, audiences saw her fly into a rage when she told him she wanted him 'to die' that same episode. 'I don't give a f*** about f***ing Raquel!' Madix screamed. 'Your friendship is f***ing bulls***!' In a sneak peek from Tuesday night's episode of the Emmy-nominated Bravo reality show, the Florida-born blonde randomly reunited with the Lyft rideshare driver who took her and Tom home the night they ended their nine-year relationship. '[The driver] definitely has no idea that, like, that it's, like, a thing. I just thought that was so crazy,' Ariana marveled. 'I don't think he has any clue how many people out there probably want to talk to him!' Tom told The New York Times Magazine on Tuesday that the 38-year-old Chicago thespian split his lip and ripped his chain off: 'She beat my a**' Sandoval had been performing with his cover band The Most Extras when she found an explicit 'screen recording of them on FaceTime' on his phone: 'It was literally from the night before' Ariana immediately called Rachel to confront her, and she admitted the affair with had started with a tryst inside her car following the death of Madix's dog Charlotte on August 2, 2022 The former DWTS contestant recalled on the 10th season finale: 'My emotions were clearly all over the place. And he was angry at me. Angry... at me!' And while there's no evidence Ariana ever hit the St. Louis native, audiences saw her fly into a rage when she told him she wanted him 'to die' that same episode Madix screamed: 'I don't give a f*** about f***ing Raquel! Your friendship is f***ing bulls***!' In a sneak peek from Tuesday night's episode of the Emmy-nominated Bravo reality show, the Florida-born blonde randomly reunited with the Lyft rideshare driver who took her and Tom home the night they ended their nine-year relationship Ariana marveled: '[The driver] definitely has no idea that, like, that it's, like, a thing. I just thought that was so crazy. I don't think he has any clue how many people out there probably want to talk to him!' And while Madix has temporarily moved to Manhattan to star in the Broadway musical Chicago through April 7, she still co-owns the $2M 4,500-square-foot five-bedroom Valley Village home she shared with Sandoval The Single AF Cocktails author quickly moved on with personal trainer Daniel Wai (2-L) last March while the Everybody Loves Tom podcaster officially began dating model Victoria Lee Robinson (2-R) in January And while Madix has temporarily moved to Manhattan to star in the Broadway musical Chicago through April 7, she still co-owns the $2M 4,500-square-foot five-bedroom Valley Village home she shared with Sandoval. The Single AF Cocktails author quickly moved on with personal trainer Daniel Wai last March while the Everybody Loves Tom podcaster officially began dating model Victoria Lee Robinson in January. It's worth noting that Tom also cheated on his prior live-in girlfriend of eight years, Kristen Doute, in order to start dating Ariana back in 2014. Sandoval's abuse allegations come nearly a year after Leviss claimed their co-star Scheana Shay pushed her against a brick wall and punched in her in the left eye on March 2, which left her with 'a permanent scar on my eyebrow.' The 29-year-old Rachel Goes Rogue podcaster was granted a month-long restraining order from her 38-year-old former friend, who denied ever punching her, which made the 10th season reunion tricky to film. Looking back at Scandoval, the former Special Forces contestant told the NYT Mag: 'I feel like I got more hate than Danny Masterson, and he's a convicted rapist.' Elsewhere in the interview, Tom was forced to issue a formal apology for comparing his 2023 media blitz to the OJ Simpson trial of 1993 and the racially-charged death of George Floyd, which spawned the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. 'My intentions behind the comments I made in New York Times Magazine were to explain the level of national media attention my affair received,' Sandoval wrote via Instastory amid Black History Month. It's worth noting that Tom also cheated on his prior live-in girlfriend of eight years, Kristen Doute, in order to start dating Ariana back in 2014 Sandoval's abuse allegations come nearly a year after Leviss claimed their co-star Scheana Shay pushed her against a brick wall and punched in her in the left eye on March 2, which left her with 'a permanent scar on my eyebrow' The 29-year-old Rachel Goes Rogue podcaster was granted a month-long restraining order from her 38-year-old former friend (R, pictured March 1), who denied ever punching her, which made the 10th season reunion tricky to film Looking back at Scandoval, the former Special Forces contestant told the NYT Mag: 'I feel like I got more hate than Danny Masterson, and he's a convicted rapist' Elsewhere in the interview, Tom was forced to issue a formal apology for comparing his 2023 media blitz to the OJ Simpson trial of 1993 and the racially-charged death of George Floyd, which spawned the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020 Sandoval wrote via Instastory amid Black History Month: 'My intentions behind the comments I made in New York Times Magazine were to explain the level of national media attention my affair received. The comparison was inappropriate and ignorant. I'm incredibly sorry and embarrassed' 'The comparison was inappropriate and ignorant. I'm incredibly sorry and embarrassed.' The Schwartz & Sandy's Lounge co-owner reportedly earns $25K/episode to star in the 11th season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills spin-off, which airs Tuesdays on Bravo. Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras - who gets 2,382 monthly listeners on Spotify - are next scheduled to perform April 26 at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette, IL. Over 300,000 Swifties are expected to flock to Sydney's Accor Stadium this weekend for the highly anticipated Eras Tour concert. NSW police are encouraging the thousands of concertgoers to plan ahead of the weekend to avoid last minute stress. Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland announced 'extra transport services will be made available this weekend and we encourage concertgoers to utilise them'. Police operations will be in place from Friday 23 February to Monday 26 February to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and staff. With large crowds expected Acting Assistant Commissioner Holland urged those who don't have tickets to stay away from the stadium in order to avoid unwanted congestion. Over 300,000 Swifties are expected to flock to Sydney's Accor Stadium this weekend for the highly anticipated Eras Tour concert Holland went on to say: 'Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and police will act in a fair but firm manner to ensure everyone has a good time but not at the expense of other peoples safety, so take care of one another'. It comes as super fans are in hysterics over the possibility of severe weather cancelling her upcoming shows in Sydney. Rumours have been swirling ahead of the second leg of Taylor's Australian tour after the Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm warning. NSW police are encouraging the thousands of concertgoers to plan ahead of the weekend to avoid last minute stress Heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones are expected for much of NSW on Friday and Saturday, placing a question mark above Taylor's first and second Sydney shows. However, Taylor has only cancelled two shows in the history of her 16-year career - once in 2011 when she had bronchitis, and another time in 2014 due to the military coup in Thailand. Taylor is no stranger to rain shows, and several performances on her Eras Tour went ahead during storms; a small delay is the most likely outcome. The worst case scenario is Sydney's Friday and Saturday night concerts being rescheduled. Police operations will be in place from Friday 23 February to Monday 26 February to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and staff Accor Stadium has stated that events will go ahead despite rain, hail, or shine unless there is a safety risk to the performer. Sydney's Accor Stadium is partially covered depending on where your seat is. While umbrellas may be brought into the stadium, you cannot use them in your seats because you might inconvenience those around you. Naomi Watts was spotted walking a sizable Great Dane on the set of her upcoming movie The Friend in New York City this week. The 55-year-old silver screen star kept warm in a black beret and long, colorful, multi-print scarf. Pieces of her blonde hair fell out from underneath and she wrapped up in a dark-colored coat as she got into character. The longtime actress wore black trousers, dark shoes, and carried two floppy tote bags one beige and one brown. She was seen emerging from a yellow taxi van with the spotted white dog, who she held on a long, red leash. Naomi Watts was spotting walking a sizable Great Dane on the set of her upcoming movie The Friend in New York City this week The 55-year-old silver screen star kept warm in a black beret and long, colorful, multi-print scarf The longtime actress wore black trousers and dark shoes as she filmed multiple takes The Hollywood fixture debuted Bing on her Instagram back in January but did not tell her two million followers that he was linked to her new project. The two-time Oscar nominee was first seen on set with Bing in early February. She spoke about the canine on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in late January and said, 'I have a dog that is six pounds,' she told Jimmy. 'This dog is 150 pounds I believe. And it's my co-star. He really is gigantic.' Watts gushed about the opportunity to play opposite an animal in a leading role on and said her co-star is 'very lovable.' 'It's not often that a dog has the starring role,' she noted, adding, 'He's a special dog. Very lovable. He's a good dog.' She also opened up about what it takes to act alongside an animal and explained they often work with a trainer while shooting. Naomi noted that Bing is much bigger than her rescue dog Izzy, a tiny Cairn Terrier and Poodle mix. A release date for The Friend has not yet been announced. She was seen emerging from a yellow taxi van with the spotted white dog, who she held on a long, red leash The two-time Oscar nominee was first seen on set with Bing in early February A release date for The Friend has not yet been announced The film follows a writer who adopts her late mentor's heartbroken Great Dane named Apollo, and the grief she shares with the pet as they both mourn their loss. It's being directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel and Naomi and Bing are the only cast members that have been announced. The Friend is an adaption of Sigrid Nunez's 2018 novel of the same name which won the U.S.'s National Book Award For Fiction about a woman's bond with her dog. Both the literature and drama tackle elements of love and friendship, along with the grief and ultimate healing the characters share while establishing their relationship. As record breaking numbers flocked to the MCG over the weekend, thousands of Swifties gathered at a different location. Taking to Melbourne's Federation Square, Filipino drag queen Taylor Sheesh, 29, treated thousands of fans who missed out on Eras tour tickets to an hour and a half long reenactment. The drag star has been professionally impersonating the global megastar since 2017. The 29-year-old treated an estimated crowd of 10,000 to a free lip-sync performance. Speaking to the ABC, Sheesh revealed she constantly had to rewatch social media videos in order to perfect the recreation of the concert. Filipino Drag Queen Taylor Sheesh, 29, treated thousands of fans who missed out on Eras tour tickets to an hour long free reenactment As record breaking numbers flocked to the MCG over the weekend, thousands of Swifties gathered at a different location 'Even though Ive watched it already a million times, to memorise and practice her nuances, her smiling, and choreography'. Fans took to social media praising the impressionist. TikTok user April Stafford uploaded a video that captioned 'When you miss out on Taylor swift but Miss Taylor SHEESH delivers'. 'Were my eras tour tickets a scam? yes. did i go and see taylor sheesh instead? yes.'@t.alia.b.s.l posted to TikTok. It comes as Sydney Swifties have demonstrated their passionate dedication to Taylor Swift, queuing for hours hours and handing over thousands of dollars for Eras Tour merchandise. There were wild scenes at at Olympic Park on Wednesday morning as fans queued for up to seven hours to get first dibs on the collection. Little did they know, Taylor herself was inside the arena doing a soundcheck as fans lined up at the merchandise stall outside. The Drag Queen has been professionally impersonating the global megastar since 2017 Fans Leyla Prior and Mackenzie Palmer said they have already spent about $4000 between them on the event. 'The tickets were about $1600, then the merch was probably $1000, flights for me from Queensland, I spent about $500 and then bracelets and outfits were probably another $500 each,' Ms Palmer said. Despite shelling out a fortune for the event, the pair were unfazed and said they were just grateful they would be among the lucky fans watching Swift take the stage this weekend. The stands are open between 10am and 6pm on Wednesday and Thursday this week, and will be available on a first come, first served basis. Russell Crowe has shaved decades off his age by going under the razor for the first time in five years. The Gladiator star, 59, took to social media on Monday to give fans a glimpse at his strikingly different new look. In recent years, he has become recognisable for his thick silver beard, but he has now decided to get rid of it, opting for a completely clean-shaven look. He revealed that it marked the first time he had shaved in five years, taking to X - formerly known as Twitter - to reveal his new look. In an accompanying caption, Russell hinted that the transformation was for a film role as he wrote: 'The actor prepares #20. First shave since 2019.' Russell Crowe has shaved decades off his age by going under the razor for the first time in five years, revealing his clean-shaven look (right) on social media Fans were quick to take to the comments section to gush that Russell looked '20 years younger' as they gave his look their stamp of approval. They wrote: 'Wow, you look 20 years younger!'; 'Looks good! It's nice to change it up and shave. You have a nice face it was hiding behind all that hair'; '20 years younger instantly!'; 'I want to know what movie you are about to make, clean shaven is good.' Russell, who was born in New Zealand and lives in Sydney, is gearing up for a whole host of acting projects this year. He is set to star in MMA action film The Beast In Me, while he will also portray Nazi Hermann Goring in James Vanderbilt's historical drama Nuremberg. Russell also recently starred in thriller movie Land of Bad alongside Liam and Luke Hemsworth, while he is also set to appear in upcoming sci-fi film Kraven the Hunter. In recent years, Russell (pictured on February 8) has become recognisable for his silver beard, but he has now decided to fully get rid of it, opting for a completely clean-shaven look Natasha Lyonne graced a glamorous green look while hitting the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her new Prime Video series The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy. The 44-year-old actress was all smiles at the premiere screening on Tuesday evening, held at the Culver Theater in Culver City, California. She was joined on the red carpet by co-stars Maya Rudolph and Stephanie Hsu, along with series creator Cirocco Dunlap, executive producer Danielle Renfrew Behrens and Amazon's Head of Television Vernon Sanders. The animated series from Amazon MGM Studios with animation by Titmouse Studios will debut in more than 240 countries through Prime Video on February 23. Lyonne stepped out in a stunning glimmering green sleeveless dress, with her long red locks flowing over her shoulders. Natasha Lyonne graced a glamorous green look while hitting the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her new Prime Video series The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy She was joined on the red carpet by co-stars Maya Rudolph and Stephanie Hsu, along with series creator Cirocco Dunlap, executive producer Danielle Renfrew Behrens and Amazon's Head of Television Vernon Sanders Lyonne stepped out in a stunning glimmering green sleeveless dress, with her long red locks flowing over her shoulders She accessorized with large silver hoop earrings, a number of gold rings and a gold watch on her left wrist. She accessorized with large silver hoop earrings, a number of gold rings and a gold watch on her left wrist. The actress completed her look with a pair of knee-high black leather boots for the outing. Her co-star Rudolph opted for a pristine white turtleneck with a massive gold necklace. She accessorized with glamorous gold earrings, completing her look with a matching white skirt and white pumps. Their Oscar-nominated co-star Hsu went with a fashionable red top and unique white pants that obscured her footwear for the evening. Amazon first announced the series - originally entitled simply The Hospital - in May 2022 with a two-season order. The show follows Dr. Sleech (Hsu) and Dr. Klak (Keke Palmer) - aliens, best friends, and intergalactically renowned surgeons - as they tackle anxiety-eating parasites, illegal time loops, and deep-space STIs. The first season follows the doctors as they, 'take on a highly dangerous and potentially groundbreaking case and, in doing so, put existence itself in jeopardy.' The actress completed her look with a pair of knee-high black leather boots for the outing Her co-star Rudolph opted for a pristine white turtleneck with a massive gold necklace She accessorized with glamorous gold earrings, completing her look with a matching white skirt and white pumps Their Oscar-nominated co-star Hsu went with a fashionable red top and unique white pants that obscured her footwear for the evening. Amazon first announced the series - originally entitled simply The Hospital - in May 2022 with a two-season order The show follows Dr. Sleech (Hsu) and Dr. Klak (Keke Palmer) - aliens, best friends, and intergalactically renowned surgeons - as they tackle anxiety-eating parasites, illegal time loops, and deep-space STIs The first season follows the doctors as they, 'take on a highly dangerous and potentially groundbreaking case and, in doing so, put existence itself in jeopardy' The series - created by Cirocco Dunlap (center) - also announced a slew of guest stars, including Kieran Culkin's brothers Macaulay Culkin, Rory Culkin, Christian Culkin, and Shane Culkin Danielle Renfrew Behrens, Cirocco Dunlap and Maya Rudolph attend Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere Cirocco Dunlap attends Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere Maya Rudolph attends Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere Kikicheea attends Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere Writer Kirsten King attends Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere Executive producer Danielle Renfrew Behrens attends Prime Video's The Second Best Hospital In The Galaxy premiere The series - created by Cirocco Dunlap - also announced a slew of guest stars, including Kieran Culkin's brothers Macaulay Culkin, Rory Culkin, Christian Culkin, and Shane Culkin. Other guest stars include Tracee Ellis Ross (American Fiction, Black-ish), Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live, Fire Island), Abbi Jacobson (Broad City), Jay Ellis (Top Gun: Maverick, Insecure), Andrew Dismukes (Saturday Night Live), Lennon Parham (Minx), Gary Anthony Williams (Night Court), and John Waters (Hairspray). Cirocco Dunlap also serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer along with Executive Producers Maya Rudolph, Danielle Renfrew Behrens and Natasha Lyonne for Animal Pictures. Shauna McGarry, Shannon Prynoski, Chris Prynoski, Antonio Canobbio, and Ben Kalina from Titmouse will executive produce. Artist and animator Robin Eisenberg will co-produce and serve as production designer. Tom Schwartz played coy while giving an update on his relationship status on Tuesday during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. The 41-year-old reality star was asked by host Andy, 55, what was happening these days with his love life. 'You know, I would say I am not, not dating,' Tom cagily answered. 'You're dating?,' Andy said. 'I'm hanging out,' Tom said. Tom Schwartz played coy while giving an update on his relationship status on Tuesday during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen on Bravo 'With anyone in particular?,' Andy asked. 'I think she would prefer that I didn't say, but I'm hanging out,' Tom said. 'Well, then there is someone in particular,' Andy said. 'Ish,' Tom said. 'Okay. Ish. Okay, good,' Andy said. Tom was on the Bravo talk show with pregnant actress Jenna Dewan, 43, who was promoting season six of The Rookie that premiered on Tuesday on ABC. They were on WWHL after the latest episode of Vanderpump Rules in which Tom's good friend and business partner Tom Sandoval, 41, revealed that he was 'saving' himself for his mistress Rachel Leviss, 29. Andy later turned to virtual fans from Illinois who asked Tom for his opinion on Sandoval's new girlfriend Victoria Lee Robinson and if he had met her yet. 'I have chilled with her. She is absolutely lovely. Obviously, devastatingly good- looking. Super successful. And, she is very charming. I approve on all levels,' Tom said. 'You know, I would say I am not, not dating,' Tom cagily answered when asked about his love life 'Well, then there is someone in particular,' Andy said after Tom revealed that he was hanging out with somebody Tom was on the Bravo talk show with pregnant actress Jenna Dewan, 43, who was promoting season six of The Rookie that premiered on Tuesday on ABC 'I have chilled with her. She is absolutely lovely. Obviously, devastatingly good- looking. Super successful. And, she is very charming. I approve on all levels,' Tom said of Sandoval's new girlfriends, shown recently on Instagram Tom also was asked by a viewer about Jo, who was shown giving him a haircut on the latest episode of Vanderpump Rules. 'Why did you say Jo was never your girlfriend, but you had a whirlwind romance?,' Andy asked on behalf of viewer Audrey. 'Okay, maybe mixed signals there a little bit. We had a lightning in the bottle situation for awhile there. I don't know if it was sustainable given my mental state of being. I don't know if I was equipped to be in a committed conventional relationship. I should have been committed. I should have been committed,' Tom quipped. Another viewer asked bar owner Tom if he believed the sandwich shop Something About Her founded by his ex-wife Katie Maloney, 37, and Ariana Madix, 38, will ever open. Tom also was asked by a viewer about Jo, who was shown giving him a haircut on the latest episode of Vanderpump Rules 'Why did you say Jo was never your girlfriend, but you had a whirlwind romance?,' Andy asked on behalf of viewer Audrey 'Okay, maybe mixed signals there a little bit. We had a lightning in the bottle situation for awhile there. I don't know if it was sustainable given my mental state of being. I don't know if I was equipped to be in a committed conventional relationship. I should have been committed. I should have been committed,' Tom quipped Tom is shown with ex-wife Katie Maloney in November 2016 in New York City 'Yes, I do. And I think it's going to be a smash hit. And I'm not just trying to kiss butt. I really do. It's in a prime location in West Hollywood and I think it's poised for success, I really do,' Tom said. Tom and Katie split up in March 2022 and finalized their divorce in October 2022 after five years of marriage and 12 years together. 'After 12 years on an adventure through life together Tom and I are ending our marriage,' Katie said in a statement announcing their split. 'This ending is not met with resentment or animosity, no sides to choose. We have deep admiration for one another that will always remain and we cherish our friendship,' she added. She continued, 'Although we may be on different paths we will continue to love and support one another's happiness. Thank you for all the kind words and support.' Advertisement Bhad Bhabie and her babydaddy Le Vaughn - who announced their pregnancy on December 1 - kissed each other while attending the premiere of her first movie Drugstore June in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The expecting 20-year-old and the 25-year-old influencer - who have their names tattooed on each other - hosted a Valentine's Day-themed baby shower for their unborn daughter Kali Love earlier this month. Bhad (born Danielle Bregoli) showcased her bourgeoning bump in a vampy black sheer gown, matching shrug, clutch, and diamond necklace. Bhabie - whose shoulder-length raven locks were styled in waves - brought out her brown eyes with false lashes and defined brows and she wore lip liner around her glossy pout. The Marc Jacobs brand ambassador makes her big-screen acting debut as a marijuana dispensary clerk in Nicholaus Goossen's who-done-it comedy, which hits limited US theaters this Friday. Bhad Bhabie and her babydaddy Le Vaughn - who announced their pregnancy on December 1 - kissed each other while attending the premiere of her first movie Drugstore June in Los Angeles on Tuesday The expecting 20-year-old and the 25-year-old influencer - who have their names tattooed on each other - hosted a Valentine's Day-themed baby shower for their unborn daughter Kali Love earlier this month Goossen previously helmed the music video for Bhad's rap song Juice back in 2018. Coincidentally, Drugstore June writer-star Esther Povitsky also happens to be pregnant, so she proudly posed with Bhabie in a black mini-dress and knee-high boots. The 35-year-old comedian - who's expecting her first child with Chad writer Dave King - plays the titular character who gets a job as a pharmacy tech and then attempts to solve a robbery. Meanwhile, Le Vaughn opted to wear a Cuban-link diamond chain with a T-Pain T-shirt, black-quilted pants, and a matching jacket on the red carpet. He is already father to a toddler son from a prior relationship. Le Vaughn originally began dating Bhabie on July 1, 2020 as he revealed in her 2021 vlog: 'The first day we seen each other, we were together. We just connect. Boom!' Last December, the platinum-selling MC - who allegedly earned over $50M from OnlyFans - put her seven-bedroom Boca Raton, FL mansion on the market for $7.89M - a year after she paid $6.1M in cash for the 8,958-square-foot property. Bhad first found fame, at age 13 in 2016, taunting the Dr. Phil audience to 'Cash me outside - how 'bout dat' during an episode titled: 'I Want to Give Up My Car-Stealing, Knife-Wielding, Twerking 13-Year-Old Daughter Who Tried to Frame Me for a Crime.' Bhad (born Danielle Bregoli) showcased her bourgeoning bump in a vampy black sheer gown, matching shrug, clutch, and diamond necklace Bhabie - whose shoulder-length raven locks were styled in waves - brought out her brown eyes with false lashes and defined brows and she wore lip liner around her glossy pout The Marc Jacobs brand ambassador makes her big-screen acting debut as a marijuana dispensary clerk in Nicholaus Goossen's who-done-it comedy, which hits limited US theaters this Friday Goossen (R) previously helmed the music video for Bhad's rap song Juice back in 2018 Coincidentally, Drugstore June writer-star Esther Povitsky (R) also happens to be pregnant, so she proudly posed with Bhabie in a black mini-dress and knee-high boots The 35-year-old comedian (R) - who's expecting her first child with Chad writer Dave King - plays the titular character who gets a job as a pharmacy tech and then attempts to solve a robbery Le Vaughn opted to wear a Cuban-link diamond chain with a T-Pain T-shirt, black-quilted pants, and a matching jacket on the red carpet He is already father to a toddler son from a prior relationship (pictured December 25) Le Vaughn originally began dating Bhabie on July 1, 2020 as he revealed in her 2021 vlog: 'The first day we seen each other, we were together. We just connect. Boom!' Last December, the platinum-selling MC - who allegedly earned over $50M from OnlyFans - put her seven-bedroom Boca Raton, FL mansion on the market for $7.89M - a year after she paid $6.1M in cash for the 8,958-square-foot property Bhad first found fame, at age 13 in 2016, taunting the Dr. Phil audience to 'Cash me outside - how 'bout dat' during an episode titled: 'I Want to Give Up My Car-Stealing, Knife-Wielding, Twerking 13-Year-Old Daughter Who Tried to Frame Me for a Crime' The viral clip of Bhabie has since amassed 51M views since being uploaded to the Dr. Phil YouTube account in 2016. Director Nicholaus Goossen suited up as he posed alongside the woman of the hour, Esther Povitsky. Also attending the film festivities was black-clad comedian Bill Burr, who executive produced Drugstore June and has a role as June's doctor. Former child star Haley Joel Osment - who plays June's ex-boyfriend - also followed the apparent all-black attire dress code for the premiere. Oppenheimer actor James Remar - who plays June's father - went a bit more casual in jeans. Comedian Bobby Lee - who plays June's co-worker - rocked an Ozzy Osbourne T-shirt and dirty Converse sneakers with his black suit. Veep alum Matt Walsh - who has a mystery role - broke rank in a red blazer over a striped button-up, black slacks, and oxblood boots. Lincoln Jolly - who plays Randy - showcased his LA Eyes clothing company wearing a black trench coat featuring fur detail with a fur bomber hat and furry shoes. Director Nicholaus Goossen (L) suited up as he posed alongside the woman of the hour, Esther Povitsky (R) Also attending the film festivities was black-clad comedian Bill Burr, who executive produced Drugstore June and has a role as June's doctor Former child star Haley Joel Osment - who plays June's ex-boyfriend - also followed the apparent all-black attire dress code for the premiere Former child star Haley Joel Osment - who plays June's ex-boyfriend - also followed the apparent all-black attire dress code for the premiere Comedian Bobby Lee - who plays June's co-worker - rocked an Ozzy Osbourne T-shirt and dirty Converse sneakers with his black suit Veep alum Matt Walsh - who has a mystery role - broke rank in a red blazer over a striped button-up, black slacks, and oxblood boots Lincoln Jolly - who plays Randy - showcased his LA Eyes clothing company wearing a black trench coat featuring fur detail with a fur bomber hat and furry shoes Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee's fourth wife Brittany Furlan donned a green faux-fur coat and leopard-print cap to celebrate her role as a pharmacy customer in the film Drugstore June also features Jonnie Park (L), Al Madrigal (2-L), Beverly D'Angelo, Miranda Cosgrove, and Jackie Sandler Enjoying the cinematic sensations was comedian Pauly Shore sporting a green hoodie over a black jacket and grey jeans Nature Cat star Kate Micucci wore a yellow beanie with a grey-patterned winter coat, skinny jeans, and black patent leather loafers Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee's fourth wife Brittany Furlan donned a green faux-fur coat and leopard-print cap to celebrate her role as a pharmacy customer in the film. Drugstore June also features Jonnie Park, Al Madrigal, Beverly D'Angelo, Miranda Cosgrove, and Jackie Sandler. Enjoying the cinematic sensations was comedian Pauly Shore sporting a green hoodie over a black jacket and grey jeans. Nature Cat star Kate Micucci wore a yellow beanie with a grey-patterned winter coat, skinny jeans, and black patent leather loafers. Sami Sheen put her incredible figure on display while giving fans a look at her luxury holiday on Instagram this week. The OnlyFans star, 19 who is the eldest child of Charlie Sheen and his ex-wife Denise Richards soaked up the sun in a tiny white bikini on Tuesday. She took photos of herself relaxing by the pool on a large lounger with her her new mystery boyfriend (she previously dated Valzar Liev.) Sami kept her face covered but made sure to capture her recent boob job and her backside for her nearly 160,000 followers. She touched down in the tropical destination over the weekend and signaled her arrival by taking a sexy bikini selfie in her hotel. Sami Sheen put her incredible figure on display while giving fans a look at her luxury holiday on Instagram this week The OnlyFans star, 19, soaked up the sun in a tiny white bikini on Tuesday In the photo, Sami tugged at one side of her string bikini bottoms and aimed her iPhone into her bathroom mirror. She included a link to her OnlyFans page with the cheeky caption: 'Don't click this' Sami launched her OnlyFans in June 2022 just three months after celebrating her 18th birthday. When Charlie and Denise Richards' daughter made the choice to join the platform, the actor at first did not 'condone' Sami's decision - who was 18 at the time. In a statement to E! News, the Two And A Half Men star had expressed, 'I do not condone this, but since I'm unable to prevent it, I urged her to keep it classy, creative and not sacrifice her integrity.' He then added, 'She is 18-years-old now and living with her mother. This did not occur under my roof.' Denise later responded to her ex-husband's statement and also informed the outlet, 'Sami is 18, and this decision wasn't based on whose house she lives in. 'All I can do as a parent is guide her and trust her judgement, but she makes her own choice.' Sami signaled that she'd touched down in the tropical destination over the weekend by sharing a sexy bikini selfie in her hotel Sami launched her OnlyFans in June 2022 just three months after celebrating her 18th birthday She is the eldest child of Charlie Sheen and his ex-wife Denise Richards; seen in 2002 However, shortly after, Charlie's view on the situation altered and he told the publication that Richards, 'has illuminated a variety of salient points, that in my haste, I overlooked and dismissed.' 'Now more than ever, it's essential that Sami have a united parental front to rely upon, as she embarks on this new adventure. From this moment forward, she'll have it abundantly.' The Wild Things actress also took the step to start an OnlyFans account of her own to further show her support for Sami. And late last year in November, Sami revealed that she had successfully undergone breast augmentation surgery. The star first revealed in June of last year her plans to get the procedure, and in September, took to TikTok to reveal she needed to quit vaping before the surgery. Sami asked her fans and followers for advice in regards to quitting and stated she had been vaping for a total of five years. 'I'm so scared, and I don't know how I'm going to live without this thing.' 'It's really sad. My whole life revolves around it. I've depended on it for so long,' she continued in the video. In the past, Sami attempted to give up the bad habit and explained, 'I've tried quitting multiple times.' 'It's really f***ing hard. I ordered this book called How To Quit Vaping by Allen Carr. Have I started reading it? No, because I don't want to quit.' In November, Sami revealed that she had successfully undergone breast augmentation surgery The star first revealed in June of last year her plans to get the procedure, and in September, took to TikTok to reveal she needed to quit vaping before the surgery Following her recovery, she has been active on social media and heavily promoting her OF; seen in late January At the time of the clip, the model had two months to quit before the procedure. 'The time has come where I have absolutely no choice, and I have to quit. Soon.' She then admitted, 'I think me getting my boobs done is honestly gonna save my life, because it's forcing me to quit this. So, at least we have that.' 'I've debated on postponing my surgery just because I'm too scared to f***ing quit nicotine,' Sheen revealed. In conclusion, she asked fans for 'help' and 'any tips on how to quit.' And in November, it appeared the media influencer was able to shake off the habit when she revealed she had the procedure. Sami documented the journey before and after the surgery, such as uploading a mirror selfie while wearing a hospital gown. 'It's surgery time!!!!!' she wrote. The star also went make-up free as she took another selfie while getting an IV drip and penned, 'this s**t felt like i drank a whole bottle of white wine it was heavenly.' Following her recovery, she has been active on social media and heavily promoting her OF. Season 25 of TLC's Little People, Big World debuted with two new episodes on Tuesday, with star Matt Roloff making a bizarre admission. Roloff, 62, was on his Oregon farm when his fiancee Caryn Chandler returned from an Arizona vacation, offering their recent guests were 'filming' things at the farm. 'People were filming and we didnt know if they were filming like, dirty, obscene stuff,' Roloff said in a confession, which comes months after Audrey Roloff announced she was pregnant. 'We are tightening down the rules on what people can do. You cant come over here and create a porno video or something,' he said to Caryn. Chandler asked with a laugh how he knew what kind of videos were being filmed, though he didn't want their home to be recognized. Season 25 of TLC's Little People, Big World debuted with two new episodes on Tuesday, with star Matt Roloff making a bizarre admission Roloff, 62, was on his Oregon farm when his fiancee Caryn Chandler returned from an Arizona vacation, offering their recent guests were 'filming' things at the farm 'Well we wouldnt, but it would show up and somebody would say, "isnt that the Roloff living room?"' Roloff added. Roloff had initially put what is known as 'the big house' on his farm up for sale in May 2022, though just a few months later in October, he turned it into a short-term rental. 'The short-term rental concept has been very, very good. Were booked almost solid,' Roloff adds in the premiere. 'I would say my ultimate goal would still be to sell the north side but Im going to do this short-term rental now while the economy is sort of in question,' he clarified. Aside from the potential X-rated renters, Roloff added there have been problems with other tenants as well. 'You like to think when you do these short-term rentals that youre just going to have these cute little families. Grandma and the kids,' he told Chandler, who joked, 'Like a Roloff reunion.' 'We had that once, but of the 20 or 30 that weve had so far every scenario is different,' he admitted. 'One group will come in and it will be wonderful, but then theres other times when people try to clean the wine glasses down the garbage disposal so we had shards of glass down the garbage disposal that was interesting. There was a pool cue in the wall,' he added. 'Well we wouldnt, but it would show up and somebody would say, "isnt that the Roloff living room?"' Roloff added Roloff had initially put what is known as 'the big house' on his farm up for sale in May 2022, though just a few months later in October, he turned it into a short-term rental 'The short-term rental concept has been very, very good. Were booked almost solid,' Roloff adds in the premiere 'We had that once, but of the 20 or 30 that weve had so far every scenario is different,' he admitted The premiere comes months after Audrey Roloff announced she was pregnant, expecting her fourth child with husband Jeremy. The Little People, Big World stars already share daughter Ember, six, and sons Bode, three, and Radley, two. The couple revealed the happy news in an adorable family video on Instagram on Monday. The family stood in a line surrounded by autumnal leaves, as they whispered the news to each other. At the end of the line, little Radley exclaimed he was going to be a 'big brother' while Jeremy held up four fingers. Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker thrilled Brisbane locals on Wednesday when they once again visited vegan cafe Dicki's. The reality TV star, 44, and the blink-182 drummer, 48, appear to have taken a liking to the eatery, and where happy to take selfies with fans this time at the New Farm venue. Kourtney looked every inch the rock chick in all-black outfit that consisted of a long sleeve rocker tee and oversized denim jeans. She completed the outfit with a chic handbag and designer shades. Elsewhere, Travis cut a stylish figure - and looked half his age - in a classic black tee and matching pants. Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker thrilled Brisbane locals on Wednesday when they once again visited vegan cafe Dicki's. Both pictured The reality TV star, 44, and the blink-182 drummer, 48, appear to have taken a liking to the eatery, and where happy to take selfies with fans this time at the New Farm venue Kourtney looked every inch the rock chick in all-black outfit that consisted of a long sleeve rocker tee and oversized denim jeans She completed the outfit with a chic handbag and designer shades He, too, attempted to hide his famous face behind dark shades. Once the word had gotten around, the famous couple were more than happy to pose for selfies with their adoring fans. It's not the first time the couple have hit the vegan hotspot. On Tuesday, Dicki's owner Justine Zulueta spoke to Brisbane's B105 breakfast show, Stav, Abby & Matt about the couple's once-in-a-lifetime visit. 'They were quite chatty, they were asking for a lot of tips about Brisbane like, where to go for massages' the worker revealed. Elsewhere, Travis cut a stylish figure - and looked half his age - in a classic black tee and matching pants He, too, attempted to hide his famous face behind dark shades Once the word had gotten around, the famous couple were more than happy to pose for selfies with their adoring fans Fans were whipped into a selfie frenzy The vegan cafe is a popular destination in Brisbane 'They had the chicken burger (plant-based) and the duck toastie (plant-based) and just a couple of matcha lattes and turmeric lattes'. Travis is a vegan and has even opened up his own vegan restaurant 'Crossroads Kitchen' in LA. Justine also revealed that the couple were not joined by security. By the end of the visit, the couple had gifted the cafe owner with VIP tickets to one of blink-182's shows in Brisbane. Justine subsequently shared an Instagram story while she attended the concert, adding the caption: 'Thank you @travisbarker and @kourtneykardash for the VIP tickets to the show last night'. It's not the first time the couple have hit the vegan hotspot. On Tuesday, Dicki's owner Justine Zulueta spoke to Brisbane's B105 breakfast show, Stav, Abby & Matt about the couple's one-in-a-lifetime visit Salma Hayek posted a sweet tribute to her husband Francois-Henri Pinault's daughter Mathilde Pinault in honor of her 23rd birthday on Tuesday. The Academy Award-winner, 57, expressed how 'proud' she is of her stepdaughter and referred to her by her nickname 'Tildie' on Instagram. The Frida star who is active on Instagram shared two photos of herself and Mathilde posing together while hanging out on a boat. She also included one precious shot of Mathilde with her billionaire father Francois-Henri, 61. The Kering CEO shares Mathilde and his son Francois Pinault, 26, with ex-wife Dorothee Lepere, who is a French interior designer. Salma Hayek posted a sweet Instagram tribute to her husband Francois-Henri Pinault's daughter Mathilde Pinault in honor of her 23rd birthday on Tuesday The former couple divorced in 2004 after eight years of marriage. At the age of 23, Mathilde is a successful model and currently studying at the Emlyon Business School in Lyon, France. She is set to graduate sometime this year. She told The Auction in 2021 that her biggest 'dream' is to become a professional equestrian and compete in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. With the stress that comes with adulthood, Mathilde previously revealed that Salma is someone who helps 'calm' her in her 'everyday life.' '[Salma] has a flame that calms me. It helps me in my everyday life,' Mathilde told Paris Match in 2022. She said that she's learned so much from watching her stepmother on film sets. 'She teaches me to keep a sense of priorities. I have already accompanied her on film shoots. 'I was able to observe how she managed her schedule, how she learned her texts at night,' Mathilde explained. 'She guides me in a very pragmatic way to face difficulty after difficulty.' The Academy Award-winner, 57, expressed how 'proud' she is of her stepdaughter and referred to her by her nickname 'Tildie' She included one precious shot of Mathilde with her billionaire father Francois-Henri, 61 Mathilde previously revealed that Salma is someone who helps 'calm' her in her 'everyday life' Francois-Henri met Salma in 2006 and they married three years later in 2009 after welcoming their daughter Valentina, 16, in 2007. The French businessman also shares a 17-year-old son Augustin with supermodel ex Linda Evangelista, 58. Last week, Salma and Francois-Henri celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on Valentine's Day. She and the CEO of Kerring who has a reported net worth of $7 billion got engaged in March 2007. After a nearly two-year engagement, they tied the knot in Paris on February 14, 2009, renewing their vows just a few months later in Italy. The Desperado star shared an undated black-and-white snap on her Instagram post, expressing her love for Pinault. 'After 18 years together and 15 years of marriage, you still make loving you easy, fun, deep and fresh like a gentle breeze. Happy anniversary mi amor,' Hayek said in her post. Salma seen with stepsons Francois, 26, Augustin, 17, stepdaughter Mathilde and her daughter Valentina, 17, in 2022 Francois-Henri met Salma in 2006 and they married three years later in 2009 after welcoming their daughter Valentina, 16, in 2007; seen in 2023 The couple spend much of their home life in London, England with their daughter Valentina in recent years. Salma most recently starred in Magic Mike's Last Dance and an 2023 episode of Black Mirror. The Oscar-nominated actress is also starring in Angelina Jolie's next film as a director, Without Blood, which is in post-production. She stars alongside Demian Bichir in the war drama, though plot details are being kept under wraps. Katie Price has been hit by another devastating blow amid her battle with bankruptcy, as her beloved horse has reportedly been taken away by bailiffs. The reality star already owes thousands of pounds in unpaid tax, and neighbours are now claiming her beloved steed Wallis has been taken away until she repays her debts. Katie purchased her horse for 250,000 back in 2009, and regularly shares snaps of him on social media. But neighbours claimed that the animal has since been seized, along with another horse. They told The Sun: 'Katie's neighbours said they believed Wallis has been taken by the bailiffs along with another horse she has. Katie Price has been hit by another devastating blow amid her battle with bankruptcy, as her beloved horse has reportedly been taken away by bailiffs The reality star already owes thousands of pounds in unpaid tax, and neighbours are now claiming her beloved steed Wallis has been taken away until she repays her debts 'They haven't been seen for a while now and they said they have been telling people they have been taken as part of HMRC's action to try and get back money. 'Wallis is Katie's pride and joy so if this is true she will be devastated.' MailOnline has contactes a representative for Katie Price for comment. It was revealed last week that Katie is being chased by HMRC for 760,000 in unpaid tax. Court papers reveal the huge cash demand from HMRC who have petitioned to make her bankrupt. Katie, 45, is due in court next month in the battle which threatens her 2million Mucky Mansion in Sussex. HMRC claim Katie owes thousands in unpaid tax, VAT and late payment penalties. Court paperwork said: 'The debtor is justly and truly indebted to us in the aggregate sum of 761,994.05.' Katie purchased her horse for 250,000 back in 2009, and regularly shares snaps of him on social media (pictured in 2010) It said there had been a 'failure to comply with a statutory demand for a liquidated sum, payable immediately.' The bulk of the debt is a claim of 535,700 in unpaid self-assessment tax or national insurance plus more than 40,000 in late payment fines. But she also owes more than 140,000 in missing VAT payments plus almost 10,000 in VAT surcharges. The paperwork is dated in November 2023, but the case has been adjourned until at least March this year. Katie was served with the payment demand in October but paperwork said it has not been complied with. The document said the 761,994 claim is for a liquidated sum implying she might have to sell property or investments to free up cash. It added: 'To the best of our knowledge and belief the demand has neither been complied with nor set aside.' Last month, Katie dodged a bankruptcy court hearing for the sixth time over a 3.2million debt repayment. The reality star was due to appear at an insolvency court in London next month, but her case has now been adjourned until the end of April, reports The Sun. Last month, Katie dodged a bankruptcy court hearing for the sixth time over a 3.2million debt repayment Her court hearing has been rescheduled multiple times in a bid to bring the insolvency case to an end. In the wake of her lengthy monetary woes, the television personality will have to answer questions about her finances. She was declared bankrupt in 2019 with debts of 3.2m from her failed company Jordan Trading Ltd, which was set up to oversee her perfume and cosmetics line. Katie had been due to explain to a judge details of her income from her TV work, including a Channel 4 show documenting the renovation of her 2m country home. Mel Schilling has told of the agony she was left in before her bowel cancer diagnosis, admitting there have been times she 'could have gone to that dark place'. The Married At First Sight star, 52, was diagnosed with the disease just before Christmas after she began experiencing symptoms while filming the Australian version of the show. Speaking to new! magazine, Mel recalled the severe pain she was in whle at work, saying: 'I was doubled over and shouting - the pain was so intense.' Her doctors originally thought her symptoms were simply constipation but she soon became concerned after losing her appetite. On a trip to Ireland with her husband Gareth, Mel said she was in 'so much pain' and struggled to hold down food or water. Mel Schilling has told of the agony she was left in before her bowel cancer diagnosis, admitting there have been times she 'could have gone to that dark place' The Married At First Sight star, 52, was diagnosed with the disease just before Christmas after she began experiencing symptoms while filming the Australian version of the show Knowing something was still wrong, she went to see a gastroenterologist after returning to London who was 'concerned' about her unexplained weight loss. Mel had a CT scan and returned a few days later to get her results, recalling the heartbreaking moment she was told she had cancer. She said: 'We were sitting in his office and the doctor had a blank look and I thought, "This doesn't seem right," and he said, "It's cancer." I think I was numb, I didn't process it and I went into work mode, that's all I could focus on.' The reality TV host revealed her shock health battle in December and underwent colon surgery just before the end of the year. She explained that her tumour - which she has named 'Terry' - was removed by UK doctors. However, as the cancer spread through her colon into the muscle, Mel now needs chemotherapy and will begin treatment at the end of February. She noted the form of chemo she is getting is not too taxing on the body so she will carry on working through the treatment. Back in December, she informed her followers about her surgery to remove her tumour. Mel recalled the severe pain she was in whle at work, saying: 'I was doubled over and shouting - the pain was so intense' On a trip to Ireland with her husband Gareth, Mel said she was in 'so much pain' and struggled to hold down food or water Recalling the moment she was told she had cancer, Mel said: 'I think I was numb, I didn't process it and I went into work mode, that's all I could focus on' 'So yesterday lunchtime I had keyhole surgery to remove my tumour (AKA Terry) and in the words of my amazing surgeon it couldn't have gone any better!' Mel said at the time. The post accompanied a photo of the TV star in a hospital bed, giving a thumbs up with a tube in her nose. She added: 'Crucially the cancer hadn't spread to my abdominal cavity, which was our greatest fear but was entirely localised in my colon.' 'Over the coming days I will discuss my treatment plan going forwards but suffice to say that Terry is toast!' Symptoms of colon cancer Symptoms of colon cancer can include: A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool. Ongoing discomfort in the belly area, such as cramps, gas or pain A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty all the way during a bowel movement Weakness or tiredness Losing weight without trying Many people with colon cancer don't have symptoms at first. When symptoms appear, they'll likely depend on the cancer's size and where it is in the large intestine. Source: Mayo Clinic Advertisement Mel then revealed her treatment had taken place in London and went on to praise the UK's National Health Service (NHS). 'I also wanted to say that everyone in the UK should be incredibly proud of the people of the NHS,' she added. 'The NHS is a unique, precious institution we need to make sure it's here to serve our children and our children's children. 'Now, its time to focus on getting my ass out of here in time for Christmas.' Mel, who appears on the British and Australian versions of the show, revealed she had colon cancer in an Instagram post on December 19. She posted a photo of herself hugging her husband and their daughter alongside the caption: '"You have cancer". Three little words that everyone dreads but no one ever expects to hear. 'Last Thursday my consultant told me those three words.' She said she was diagnosed just one month after she began to feel pain in her stomach while filming MAFS Australia's upcoming eleventh season. 'About a month ago, when I was filming in Australia, I developed severe stomach cramps on set. I put it down to all the travel I'd been doing and the upset it caused to my system,' she explained. 'I saw my GP in Sydney and he put it down to constipation, gave me some laxatives and sent me on my way.' Despite her doctor's initial assessment, Mel said she knew her condition was more serious and booked herself a scan when she travelled to the UK. 'On Thursday I was told I had colon cancer and in an instant my whole life changed,' she wrote. In addition to the UK version, Mel has recently returned to screens alongside fellow experts John Aiken and Alessandra Rampolla for the eleventh season of the Aussie version of the hit dating show. If public opinion serves to alienate Matt Smith in this classic morality tale, so too does it work against the actor's latest West End endeavour - despite his most valiant efforts. Smith takes a starring role in An Enemy Of The People, Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen's 1882 critique of societal hypocrisy, as seen through the eyes of local doctor Thomas Stockmann. Stockmann quickly becomes alienated from local townsfolk after discovering the water at a newly opened spa is polluted, with his refusal to stay quiet threatening the community's continued economic prosperity. But if the water is lukewarm, so too are the reviews; indeed, there's a bitter irony that public opinion, so important a theme here, should also work against this contemporary West End remake from director Thomas Ostermeier. While Smith's edgy take on Stockmann as a jeans wearing, David Bowie loving revolutionary has won critical praise, his efforts have been undermined by consistently weak reviews. If public opinion serves to alienate Matt Smith in An Enemy Of The People, so too does it work against the actor's latest West End endeavour - despite his most valiant efforts Smith takes a starring role in An Enemy Of The People, Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen's 1882 critique of societal hypocrisy (L to R) cast members Zachary Hart, Paul Hilton, Matt Smith, Jessica Brown Findlay, Nigel Lindsay, Priyanga Burford and Shubham Saraf Writing for the Telegraph, Dominic Cavendish commented: 'The Crown and Doctor Who star is a natural fit for the role of Dr Stockmann but this flawed production could use a digital-era upgrade. 'It's a part he's a natural fit for, with his high-brow looks and aura of broodingly intellectual, nay doctorly authority. 'A play for today, on paper, but the concept could use a digital-era upgrade, and a shot more vigour, to set the world on fire.' Echoing those sentiments, The Stage added: 'Matt Smith is arresting in an arid, over-deliberate reimagining of Ibsen from German director Thomas Ostermeier.' Sarah Hemming of The Financial Times singled out Smith and his co-stars, writing: 'The performances are great, particularly from Zachary Hart as the funny, dopey Billing and Jessica Brown Findlay as the long-suffering Katharina. 'And Smith is terrific. His Stockmann blusters, rages and despairs, but ends up (unlike Ibsen's original) exhausted, tugging on a bottle of beer and contemplating compromise.' However Clive Davis of The Times was unimpressed, adding: 'The sad truth is that Thomas Ostermeiers sophomoric attempt to drag the Norwegian playwright into the 21st century is so clumsy it might almost be part of some sinister conservative plot to kill off left-wing theatre once and for all. 'Smith turns in a passable performance, although hes outshone by the ever-reliable Paul Hilton (a memorably vicious Iago at the National not so long ago) who brings a snarl to Stockmanns establishment-minded brother.' Smith takes a starring role in An Enemy Of The People, Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen's 1882 critique of societal hypocrisy REVIEWS: An Enemy of the People The Telegraph: Rating: Dominic Cavendish writes: 'The Crown and Doctor Who star is a natural fit for the role of Dr Stockmann but this flawed production could use a digital-era upgrade. 'It's a part he's a natural fit for, with his high-brow looks and aura of broodingly intellectual, nay doctorly authority. 'A play for today, on paper, but the concept could use a digital-era upgrade, and a shot more vigour, to set the world on fire.' The Guardian Rating: Arifa Akbar writes: 'Rock'n'roll reimagining of Ibsen's timeless corruption drama brings the audience into direct Question Time-style dialogue with Smith's idealist revolutionary. 'He is a doctor, new dad and musician who belts out a David Bowie number before launching his protest against small-town corporate corruption and the sale of contaminated spa water for public consumption.' The Stage Rating: The publication writes: 'Matt Smith is arresting in an arid, over-deliberate reimagining of Ibsen from German director Thomas Ostermeier.' The Evening Standard Rating: Nick Curtis writes: 'Kudos to Matt Smith: it's bold of him to choose this unstarry, uneven production of Ibsen's social critique for his latest return to the stage. 'The story of a doctor destroyed for revealing a public health crisis in the spa waters on which his town depends, it juxtaposes understated naturalism with coarse political sloganeering and audience participation. 'The casually charismatic Smith and a fine supporting cast can't stop it falling apart in the second half.' Financial Times Rating: Sarah Hemming writes: 'The performances are great, particularly from Zachary Hart as the funny, dopey Billing and Jessica Brown Findlay as the long-suffering Katharina. 'And Smith is terrific. His Stockmann blusters, rages and despairs, but ends up (unlike Ibsen's original) exhausted, tugging on a bottle of beer and contemplating compromise.' The Independent Rating: Alice Saville writes: 'The 'Doctor Who' star makes a daring choice for his return to the stage, but German director Thomas Ostermeier's reimagining of Ibsen's play about a man who fights to speak out can feel smug and self-congratulatory.' The Times Rating: Clive Davis writes: 'The sad truth is that Thomas Ostermeiers sophomoric attempt to drag the Norwegian playwright into the 21st century is so clumsy it might almost be part of some sinister conservative plot to kill off left-wing theatre once and for all. 'Smith turns in a passable performance, although hes outshone by the ever-reliable Paul Hilton (a memorably vicious Iago at the National not so long ago) who brings a snarl to Stockmanns establishment-minded brother.' Advertisement The Evening Standard's Nick Curtis was also left cold by Ostermeiers production, writing: 'Kudos to Matt Smith: it's bold of him to choose this unstarry, uneven production of Ibsen's social critique for his latest return to the stage. 'The story of a doctor destroyed for revealing a public health crisis in the spa waters on which his town depends, it juxtaposes understated naturalism with coarse political sloganeering and audience participation. 'The casually charismatic Smith and a fine supporting cast can't stop it falling apart in the second half.' However The Guardian's Arifa Akbar offered a more enthusiastic response in a four star review, writing: 'Rock'n'roll reimagining of Ibsen's timeless corruption drama brings the audience into direct Question Time-style dialogue with Smith's idealist revolutionary. 'He is a doctor, new dad and musician who belts out a David Bowie number before launching his protest against small-town corporate corruption and the sale of contaminated spa water for public consumption. A recent synopsis for the revived play reads: 'Doubt spreads faster than disease in Ibsen's thought-provoking play about truth in a society driven by power and money. 'When Dr. Stockmann makes an unbelievable discovery about the healing waters in his local baths, he holds the future of the town in his hands, but those with everything to lose refuse to accept his word. 'As the battle goes beyond contaminated water, barriers are broken in this contemporary production as Ostermeier shows us why this perennial class will be relevant forever.' There's a bitter irony that public opinion, so important a theme here, should also work against this contemporary West End remake from director Thomas Ostermeier While Smith's edgy take on central character Stockmann as a jeans wearing, David Bowie loving revolutionary has won praise, his efforts have been undermined by weak reviews Smith is back onstage after admitting he agrees with fellow actor Ralph Fiennes' claim that trigger warnings in theatre should be scrapped. Fiennes, 61, dismissed the modern trend during an appearance on BBC Ones Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, insisting theatre-goers should be "socked and disturbed." Smith said: 'I agree. I watched it, I agree with Ralph utterly and completely. Thats why we go to the theatre isnt it? To be shocked, to be arrested out of ourselves, to recognise ourselves in front and with an audience. 'I also agree that if there are strobes or whatever there are some things it (warnings) makes sense. 'But I worry sometimes that were moving towards a sort of sanitised version of everything and were stripping the danger and the invention and the ingenuity out of everything. 'Isnt art meant to be dangerous? Its like, I always thought that was one of the great things of doing Doctor Who is that you scare children but in a controlled way. 'But you did scare them. I mean imagine going to kids watching Doctor Who, By the way this might scare you. No, Im not into it.' Making his West End debut, celebrated director Ostermeier's production of An Enemy of the People plays at the Duke of York's Theatre for a strictly limited run from February 6 2024. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeble, sophomoric and paper-thin: Matt Smith is nothing if not exciting, but he's wasted on this one-star adaptation of An Enemy Of The People, writes PATRICK MARMION An Enemy Of The People (Duke of Yorks Theatre, London) Verdict: More likely to make us demand our money back than it is to send us rushing to the barricades. Rating: The last time I saw Matt Smith live on stage, he chased down a super-sized moth that had dared to invade his space mid performance at the Royal Court Theatre in Chelsea. The former Doctor Who, who also played Prince Philip in the Crown, is therefore nothing if not an exciting and unpredictable showman. Im sorry to report, however, that this does not so much apply to his eagerly anticipated return to live theatre. He is wasted on a piece of sophomoric, paper-thin agit-prop thats more likely to make us demand our money back than it is to send us rushing to the barricades. The actor with the famously vulpine features is taking the lead role of Doctor Stockmann in a feeble modern day updating of Henrik Ibsens great 19th-century indictment of institutional corruption in a Norwegian spa town where the water has been polluted. Matt Smith is wasted on a piece of sophomoric, paper-thin agit-prop thats more likely to make us demand our money back than it is to send us rushing to the barricades. Directed by German avant-gardist Thomas Ostermeier, it is set among a group of the towns middle class, wokey cokey liberals who have identified civilisation as clinically dead Directed by German avant-gardist Thomas Ostermeier, it is set among a group of the towns middle class, wokey cokey liberals who have identified civilisation as clinically dead. Such snarling propaganda is better suited to a student union than the West End, and with most remaining tickets priced at 100-200, the real swindle is on Smiths legions of faithful young fans. The first thing that greets them in the theatre is a bar selling Veuve Clicquot champagne. Yet that hasnt stopped the fragile pretence that the show is a fist shaken at fat cats and vested interests. After the interval - when the blackboard set, painted with cartoon hieroglyphics, has been spattered in white paint during an ersatz display of defiance - the production turns into a political protest meeting. Smith steps up with a class-war diatribe, in which he proclaims society deserves its extinction. As becomes apparent from the Question Time style involvement of the audience (yes, there is voluntary audience participation), feelings of powerlessness and despair at the future are real concerns for many young people. After the interval - when the blackboard set, painted with cartoon hieroglyphics, has been spattered in white paint - the production turns into a political protest meeting As becomes apparent from the Question Time style involvement of the audience, feelings of powerlessness and despair at the future are real concerns for many young people But all they get here is flimsy moral dilemmas, as Smiths doctor comes into conflict with his brother the Mayor (Paul Hilton), defender of the fictional towns economic interests. Said town is, moreover, in the grip of a serious epidemic of nepotism. Not only has the brother secured Doctor Stockmanns job, Smiths wife (Jessica Brown Findlay) is the daughter of a gruff Yorkshire industrialist (Nigel Lindsay) who makes a handful of appearances with an inexplicable Alsatian dog. And no less cliquishly, Smith and his Mrs are part of a David Bowie and Oasis cover-band who rehearse in his home with the editor and leading writer of the local paper. Nor is there any test of Smiths acting. Placidly sitting through a public character assassination by his brother when things go bad, he loafs about the stage in designer jeans and sweat shirt, muttering about his unimpeachable integrity and getting spattered with paint balls when the town turns against him. Personally, I didnt turn against him, because I couldnt get behind him in the first place. There are audible sniggers from Whovians when one character tells him hes a brilliant doctor, and although that may have been true when he was up against the Daleks, here hes just roadkill for the plays evil capitalist cronies. Viewers were left in floods of tears following Stacey Solomon's Sort Your Life Out on Tuesday, after the presenter revealed a sweet surprise for a father who lost his wife to cancer. The star was enlisted to help father-of-two Craig, whose wife Lois died of cancer five years ago, after he struggled to keep on top of everyday tasks. Asking Craig what had led to his house being so cluttered, he admitted that it had been a challenge raising his two daughters alone following Lois' death. After moving the family's belongings to a warehouse, Stacey discovered an old diary that Lois had written. In it was an entry from Lois' last Christmas season with her husband and their daughters. Viewers were left in floods of tears following Stacey Solomon 's Sort Your Life Out on Tuesday, after the presenter revealed a sweet surprise for a father who lost his wife to cancer The star was enlisted to help father-of-two Craig, whose wife Lois died of cancer five years ago, after he struggled to keep on top of everyday tasks She wrote: 'If it was the last one - and I sincerely hope it isn't - it's the best Christmas I had because it was smothered in love as all Christmases should be.' The words led Craig to break down in tears, and Stacey sweetly embraced him. After clearing the house of clutter and giving it a transformation, Stacey revealed the new home to Craig and his daughters, who were aged four and six. Part of the transformation included a new office space for Craig to work in peace, and a secret reading room for his daughters. In the episode's heartwarming final moments, Stacey also revealed to Craig that Lois, who worked as a teacher, had previously written a children's story for their daughters, and she had it published into a book so the family could read it together. The moving episode left many viewers in tears, with plenty also praising Craig for navigating the challenges of being a widower raising two children alone. One tweeted: 'What an emotional episode! Beautiful girls, Dad is doing a wonderful job raising them.' A second added: 'A hidden book room, a lot of tears from me, my house underneath a blue banner, tonight's #sortyourlifeour was pretty special.' Asking Craig what had led to his house being so cluttered, he admitted that it had been a challenge raising his two daughters alone following Lois' death After unveiling the house's transformation, Stacey revealed that she'd also had one of Lois' stories turned into a book that Craig could read with his daughters The moving episode left many viewers in tears, with plenty also praising Craig for navigating the challenges of being a widower raising two children alone 'I am not okay after Stacey turned Lois' story into a book for the kids,' a third added. Elsewhere Stacey and her husband Joe Swash enjoyed a family road trip to Scotland on their brand new 70,000 campervan during half term. The Loose Women presenter took to Instagram on Monday to share a sweet photo with their children Zachary, 15, Leighton, 11, Rex, three, Rose, two, and Belle, one. After Joe, 42, splashed out on the new motor as a surprise, the family enjoyed an adventure around Loch Ness. Alongside the doting picture of her close-nit family, Stacey captioned her post: 'On The Craziest Adventure Ever. 5 kids, 1 me, 1 Joe Swash & a caravan. I fell asleep somewhere in Essex & woke up looking for the Loch Ness monster. 'Joes never been happier. Day one has been all about Inverness, and it is BEAUTIFUL. I dont know what I imagined travelling like this would be. Although it is hard with such little ones, its magical. Elsewhere Stacey and her husband Joe Swash enjoyed a family road trip to Scotland on their brand new 70,000 campervan during half term 'And I dont think Ive ever felt so free. And off the grid. I feel Like we can go anywhere & do anything. 'Its special. I dont say this lightly Joe was right. Happy Sunday Everyone. Lots of love from all of us!' The TV personality shares Zachary and Leighton with her previous partners, while Joe also shares a son Harry, 15, with his ex Emma Sophocleous. Stacey and Joe share their three children Rex, Rose and Belle. Julie Bishop's ex-boyfriend David Panton was positively glowing at the 2024 lululemon Innovation Launch in Sydney on Wednesday night. The 62-year-old attended the event with girlfriend Genevieve Anderson, 39, and their chemistry was electric. The couple appeared deeply in love as they moved in close and posed for waiting photographers at event. David ensured his muscular physique was on full display underneath a tight fitting navy crew neck tee, paired with light blue slacks. He completed his look with a pair of stylish shades, white kicks and a devilish grin as he smiled next to his ladylove. Julie Bishop 's ex-boyfriend David Panton was positively glowing at the 2024 lululemon Innovation Launch in Sydney on Wednesday night. Pictured with girlfriend Genevieve Anderson The couple appeared deeply in love as they moved in close and posed for waiting photographers at event. David ensured his muscular physique was on full display underneath a tight fitting navy crew neck tee, paired with light blue slacks Meanwhile, girlfriend Genevieve looked stunning in an off-white maxi dress with delicate detailing. The flame-haired beauty carried a sporty clutch for her belongings and completed her look with blinding white kicks Ms Anderson is a specialist in perinatal psychology for new mums and runs her own clinic in Wahroonga on Sydney's North Shore. She is a triathlete and former Ironwoman competitor who took part in Manly's Bold and Beautiful open water swimming challenge last year. Mr Panton also takes part in the B&B, logging 364km so far in 2022 - the 20th greatest distance swum by a group member this year - and is said to have met Ms Anderson during their regular open sea swimming sessions off Manly Beach. Friends told The Australian that the property developer and healthcare founder is said to be 'smitten' with his new young love interest. David completed his look with a pair of stylish shades, white kicks and a devilish grin as he smiled next to his ladylove. Meanwhile, girlfriend Genevieve looked stunning in an off-white maxi dress with delicate detailing David allegedly dumped Julie over dinner in Sydney in July, 2022, putting an end to their eight-year relationship. During their partnership, Ms Bishop took Mr Panton to the United Nations to meet world leaders, Buckingham Palace to hobnob with British royalty and to the White House where he met Donald and Melania Trump. The pair first stepped out publicly in 2014, and were pictured at countless celebrity events over the years including the 2018 wedding of Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough. They had appeared to be going strong when they recently visited St James' Palace in London for an event honouring Prince Charles' charity. Ms Bishop was understood to have been 'blindsided' by the sudden breakdown of her relationship, sources close to the former politician said. Panton allegedly dumped Ms Bishop, 66, over dinner in Sydney after an eight-year relationship This video is no longer available This video is no longer available She became an overnight sensation with her dance clips on The London Underground. And TikTok's 'Tube Girl' Sabrina Bahsoon has joined forces with an unlikely star for her latest Instagram post, as she boarded the Victoria Line with none other than Nicole Scherzinger. In an energetic clip posted to her Instagram, Nicole delivered a wild rendition of her hit Don't Hold Your Breath with Sabrina, whose dance videos catapulted her to stardom last year. Nicole's raven tresses billowed in the breeze as the tube sped along while she and Sabrina belted out the track together. While the pair certainly gave it their all during the performance, commuters didn't seem as enamoured, with most failing to look up from their phones. Nicole Scherzinger and TikTok's 'Tube Girl' Sabrina Bahsoon delivered an energetic performance as they boarded the Victoria Line in a fun Instagram clip In an energetic clip posted to her Instagram, Nicole delivered a wild rendition of her hit Don't Hold Your Breath with Sabrina, whose dance videos catapulted her to stardom last year Sabrina Bahsoon, known as Tube Girl, filmed her first video as her dancing alter ego on the Central line in August with no idea she would become TikTok famous, boasting more than 800,000 followers and 28million likes by the end of the year. In the clip, which amassed more than 10million views, Bahsoon can be seen dancing along to David Guetta's Where Them Girls At featuring Nicki Minaj. The caption read: 'Being the friend who lives on the other side of the city so you gotta hype yourself up during the commute.' From there the dancing format exploded, with many more videos from Bahsoon following as she coupled music from artists including Rihanna and Charlie XCX with her trademark move of using the windows of Tube carriages to allow wind to blow through her hair. Speaking to MailOnline, Sabrina said: 'It was craziest thing that could ever happen to me. I had no idea that it would be this big, the global reach was insane and I never expected it. 'Even just making it in the UK was a huge thing. Then for it to take over the world...I'm still processing it.' Sabrina is originally from Malaysia, but now lives in London after graduating from Durham University. Nicole has also been enjoying a luxurious getaway to The Maldives with her fiance Thom Evans, staying at Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives which starts a 1,800 a night. Last year Sabrina became a viral sensation when she filmed herself dancing on the London Underground, and she now has nearly 800,000 TikTok followers Nicole has also been enjoying a luxurious getaway to The Maldives with her fiance Thom Evans, staying 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 Webber s #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. In November, Nicole was awarded Best Musical Performance at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards for her role in Sunset Boulevard. Adam Rickitt kept his new look under wraps as he scraped his hair back into a ponytail while puffing on a vape. The former soap star, 45, appeared in Coronation Street as Nick Tilsley and Hollyoaks as Kyle Kelly, and last year appeared in Doctors. But what the star may be most known for is his iconic 1999 music video I Breathe Again where he flaunted his naked body in a glass box while being inspected by doctors. Adam has since opened a craft beer bottle shop in Cheshire, and he was spotted smoking a vape with his hair scraped back into a ponytail outside the shop on Wednesday. His slicked back hair concealed hid his new long mousy brown locks - a far cry from his long 90s straightened locks. Adam Rickitt kept his new look under wraps as he scraped his hair back into a ponytail while puffing on a vape outside his beer shop in Cheshire on Wednesday The former soap star, 45, appeared in Coronation Street as Nick Tilsley and Hollyoaks as Kyle Kelly, and was last year revealed to be joining the cast of Doctors His new look! Adam has been sporting longer locks of late In between acting gigs, Adam opened the craft beer shop, gin specialist and 'micro bar', called Dexter and Jones, in Knutsford with his GMB presenter wife, Katy. As he was spotted outside the shop on Wednesday, he kept things casual in a pair of light grey jogging bottoms, worn-in trainers and a hipster cardigan. Adam starred in Coronation Street as Gail Tilsley's son Nick from 1997 to 1999 and then again in 2004 before appearing as Nancy Osborne's fiance Kyle Kelly in Hollyoaks from 2017 until 2020. After departing Corrie the first time, Adam set himself on the path of a solo singing career. I Breathe Again was Adam's debut track and it reached number five in the UK charts, selling 76,500 copies. But after his album only managed to reach number 41 he was unceremoniously dropped by his record label. In August, Adam appeared to channel the music video as he went nude for a slew of Instagram snaps. He posed in a stone villa during his sun-soaked holiday and joked 'beer made him' strip off for the saucy shoot. The star may be most known for is his iconic 1999 music video I Breathe Away where he flaunted his naked body while being inspected by doctors Adam starred in Coronation Street as Gail Tilsley's son Nick from 1997 to 1999 and then again in 2004 He then appeared as Nancy Osborne's fiance Kyle Kelly in Hollyoaks from 2017 until 2020 In August, Adam appeared to channel his famous music video as he went nude for a slew of Instagram snaps He captioned the post: 'I apologise...but guess what...it's a tradition!'. It was revealed in July that Adam is set to make a return to the screen in BBC soap Doctors, after bagging a new role. An insider told The Sun: 'Adam was amongst the best soap actors in the country so it was only a matter of time before he landed a new role. 'He's really excited to get started on Doctors and bosses cant wait to see how viewers react to him. 'Adam has spent a lot of time working on his bar but is in a position to get back to acting now.' MailOnline has contacted the BBC for comment. The year before, Adam revealed that he had been been scammed out of 'tens of thousands of pounds' from a cunning bank fraud. Adam shared that he was a victim of an elaborate push payment scam, leaving him feeling 'stupid' and embarrassed'. In the video, an emotional Adam told how he though he was rather 'savvy' when it came to security but admitted he was completely duped by who he believed was the fraud team at Barclay's bank, remarking: 'They knew EVERYTHING about me'. The star admitted he could hardly look his wife Katy in the eye after being conned and said that though some people may 'laugh' at him, he wanted to warn others from making his mistake. Adam revealed that he'd been scammed out of 'tens of thousands of pounds' from a cunning bank fraud The star admitted he could hardly look his wife Katy in the eye after being conned and said that though some people may 'laugh' at him, he wanted to warn others from making his mistake An authorised push payment (APP) scam is when someone willingly transfers money from their own banking account to a scammer's. Scams can be highly sophisticated, with criminals posing as legitimate organisations such as banks, government bodies or the police. A visibly moved Adam said in the video: 'So, I need to make an admission of something which is going to make me feel very stupid and embarrassed. I'm sure everyone's going to rip the schmeichel out of me, but fingers crossed it means it won't happen to someone else, so here you go. 'I got scammed this week with a push payment scam.' He went on: 'I will preface all this saying I know I am not the brightest button in the entire repertoire but I consider myself relatively savvy but I just got completely conned. 'Essentially what happened is that on Tuesday I got a text from Barclays bank saying there had been some suspicious activity on my account and a member of the fraud investigation team was going to be ringing me to discuss it. 'I got a phone call from an 0845 number and the chap Martin introduced himself said "I am ringing from Barclays fraud department", did the same security questions I always have. 'While I was on the phone to him on my laptop I even went on the Barclays website to check the number he was calling from and sure enough it was the Barclays fraud number.' Duped: In the video, an emotional Adam told how he though he was rather 'savvy' when it came to security but admitted he was completely duped by who he believed was the fraud team at Barclay's bank, remarking: 'They knew EVERYTHING about me' Can't believe it: The former pop star also shared a lengthy caption in which he expressed his shock that the robbers knew 'everything' about him Adam continued: 'Long and short of it was he explained to me that someone had been into the Crewe branch and had attempted to withdraw money. He said the only way that person could do that was using my driving licence and my passport and my signature. 'He was saying "Was that you?" They somehow have your passport and driving licence, at which point I was petrified it was identity fraud. Rang my wife, she checked and sure enough I had my passport and driving licence at home. So I said I dont understand how this is happening. He said "Let me ring you back". 'So he hung up the phone, I logged into my bank account, everything seemed fine. I got the phone call back again, and I immediately borrowed one of my friends phones to try and ring this number I had found on the website and it went through. 'He said what he thought had happened was that it was a bit of an inside job, they had seen CCTV footage of a young lad, obviously not me, who had gone to the teller, asked people to go in front of them in the queue and when he got there he wasnt asked to hand over his passport. 'He said what was concerning them was not only was those two people, because of the size of the funds that were withdrawn there should have been a notification.' Fighting back tears as he continued to recall his ordeal, Adam added: 'So again, I got very nervous. 'They said what they needed me to do was do a dummy payment, and what it would do is trigger a member of the fraud department. I said no I didnt want to. 'They said they would have to shut down the account, so I went back on to my account and sure enough the money was gone.' Floored: 'I can't even begin to suggest how to protect yourself as I thought I was doing everything right...but please just be aware there's people out there who know exactly how to play the system' After telling how the thieves stole 'tens of thousands of pounds', Adam confessed: 'I feel like an idiot. Its hard to look my wife in the eye'. The former pop star also shared a lengthy caption in which he expressed his shock that the robbers knew 'everything' about him. He penned: 'CONFESSION TIME! I know a lot of people will laugh at me for this...but I want to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else. 'I got completely scammed this week by some fraudsters impersonating @barclaysuk 'I was 100% sure it was the bank, that they were helping me and that I wasn't even transferring funds or giving any details away. Alas the former wasn't true..they managed to duplicate everything I thought to be safe...they knew EVERYTHING about me and my history with the bank... 'I know we all think we know what to do or how to react...but honestly I have never known the stress it created over the course of the scam......and now the embarrassment I feel. 'I can't even begin to suggest how to protect yourself as I thought I was doing everything right...but please just be aware there's people out there who know exactly how to play the system.Be safe x.' Gethin Jones left his spot on the BBC Morning Live sofa to join his friend Craig Maxwell who has been given just months to live. Craig, the chief commerical officer of the Six Nations, was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in July 2023 and was told he had between ten and 18 months to live. He is now doing a 780-mile trek to raise much-needed funds for others and he is aiming to raise 1million. Craig's trek is 780 miles because it took him 78 days to get diagnosed and he wants to see this process dramatically improved so the disease can be spotted earlier. 530 walkers have joined the Welshman on his inspirational mission including his close friend Gethin who walked with him between Bangor and Caernarfon in North Wales. Gethin Jones left his spot on the BBC Morning Live sofa to join his friend Craig Maxwell who has been given just months to live Craig, the chief commerical officer of the Six Nations, was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in July 2023 and was told he had between ten and 18 months to live On Morning Live, Gethin asked Craig how he was coping with the physical nature of his mission. He said: 'You are without a doubt one of the most positive people that we know but Craig seriously, everything you're going through physically, how are you finding this? How hard is it? 'I'm not one to admit it always but I have to say it's getting harder,' Craig replied. 'The blisters on my feet are sore, painful and with the side effects of the tablets, I get quite a bit of fatigue so each day between 18-24 miles, it's starting to have its effect. 'My dream is to do as much of it as I can but the way I'm feeling at the moment I'm going to have to take some days to rest because it's getting harder.' Gethin then asked Craig why he was walking around Wales instead of 'putting his feet up' or going on holiday. 'There's two reasons,' he said. 'The first one is the experience me and my wife went through by waiting for those 78 days - we just felt compelled that we need to do something for the next family. 'That wasn't something which we wanted someone else to experience and there are ways in which we can help solve that problem. So that's really driven and motivated us.' When he was diagnosed, Craig bravely told MailOnline: 'I was told at the start of July I have between 10 and 18 months left. He is now doing a 780-mile trek to raise much-needed funds for others and he is aiming to raise 1million, with Gethin joining him between Bangor and Caernarfon in North Wales Craig with his wife Tracey and their two children Isla and Zach 'I am scared. I'm scared about the things I won't be able to influence. I am getting all my affairs in order and arranging and paying for my own funeral. 'I want everything done so my wife doesn't have to worry about anything. All she'll have to do is wake up and worry about herself and the kids. 'We're taking them to Disneyland Paris but I've got no desire for lots of big trips. I just want to cuddle my kids, watch movies with them on the sofa, and have adult conversations with them about life, what I've learned, and what's important. I'll tell them it's going to be OK. 'I want to set them up for the future even though I won't be there. That's my dream. My big driver is I want my kids to see there are a few important things in life. 'It's about family and friends. 'It's important not to be defeated. When we told my children I had terminal cancer, the first thing my daughter said was 'Daddy, I know you'll do everything to fight this. I'm so proud of you.' It made me the proudest man ever. 'I want to show our children that even in the face of adversity you can and will pick yourself up and make a difference.' He and his wife Tracey have two young children Isla, 12, and Zach who is eight. They're finally heading home after bidding farewell to their luxury villa. And Love Island's Georgia Steel and Toby Aromolaran appeared less-than enamoured to be boarding their flight home, as they arrived at the airport in South Africa on Tuesday. The pair appeared somewhat glum as they waited at the terminal with their fellow finalists, including Georgia Harrison and Anton Danyluk, who were more occupied by each other as they prepared to board their flight. Keen to prove the doubters wrong, Georgia H and Anton packed on the PDA as they shared a smooch at the airport. The two couples both missed out on being crowned the winners of Love Island's All Stars series, with Molly Smith and Tom Clare crowned champions. Love Island's Georgia Steel and Toby Aromolaran appeared less-than enamoured to be boarding their flight home, as they arrived at the airport in South Africa on Tuesday The pair were joined by fellow finalists Georgia Harrison and Anton Danyluk, who were keen to prove their doubters wrong by packing on the PDA As they waited at the airport, a tired Georgia S and Toby were seen waiting together as they stood in the terminal with their trolleys of suitcases As they waited at the airport, a tired Georgia S and Toby were seen waiting together as they stood in the terminal with their trolleys of suitcases. The reality star donned an oversized grey hoodie as she cosied up to her man. Meanwhile Anton was seen leaning in for a kiss with Georgia H, keen to brush off any questions that their connection wasn't genuine. Georgia sported a white bralet and baggy denim jeans, with her cream jumper knotted over her shoulders. The finalists are the last of the stars to touch back down at Heathrow airport as Maya Jama, Stormzy and their fellow islanders arrived on Wednesday morning. After exiting the villa, Georgia H addressed concerns from fans about her wellbeing during the live final. The couple have faced serious scrutiny over the legitimacy of their relationship over the past few weeks and have faced a rocky road to romance. But taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Georgia once again defended their relationship and insisted she was just 'nervous' during the final. Georgia S and Toby packed on the PDA as they prepared to board their long flight home from South Africa The couple finished in third place during Monday's live final, with Molly Smith and Tom Clare crowned champions The reality star donned an oversized grey hoodie as she cosied up to her man Anton was seen leaning in for a kiss with Georgia H, keen to brush off any questions that their connection wasn't genuine Georgia sported a white bralet and baggy denim jeans, with her cream jumper knotted over her shoulders The finalists are the last of the stars to touch back down at Heathrow airport as Maya Jama, Stormzy and their fellow islanders arrived on Wednesday morning After exiting the villa, Georgia H addressed concerns from fans about her wellbeing during the live final Georgia wrote: 'If I'm being honest the last week was really challenging for me and I was nervous at the final with such a big crowd and also the ex Islanders who had recently voiced strong opinions on me and Anton as a couple.' Georgia was referring to a recent episode of the show where the ex-Islanders came back into the villa to share their judgements on the couples. The Islanders had to vote for who they thought the least compatible couple was and Georgia and Anton narrowly avoided being dumped as Arabella Chi and Adam Maxted were ultimately sent home. During her statement, Georgia continued: 'I couldn't hide my apprehension but I can assure you I am very happy and looking forward to the future and appreciate him supporting me through my nerves. While speaking to host Maya Jama during the final, Georgia looked less than impressed with Anton as he revealed that she was 'heartbroken' when she originally entered the South Africa villa. The pair discussed how it felt that their fellow Islanders believed their romantic connection is fake after Georgia previously said Anton gave her 'the ick'. She said: 'I just think I'm not use to relationships moving that fast and then feelings just grew slowly and it took a while to progress.' Anton added: 'It was difficult because what I think people didn't realise was that Georgia came in here heartbroken when she came in.' Maya replied: 'We didn't actually know that...' The couple have faced serious scrutiny over the legitimacy of their relationship over the past few weeks and have faced a rocky road to romance But taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Georgia once again defended their relationship and insisted she was just 'nervous' during the final Georgia wrote: 'If I'm being honest the last week was really challenging for me and I was nervous at the final with such a big crowd' Looking rather furious by the comment, Georgia awkwardly shut down the comment: 'I wasn't like that, let's not talk about it'. Maya then went completely silent along with the rest of the audience and villa but it was not made clear who actually 'broke' Georgia's heart. The pair did go on to say they are going to try and 'see each other' back home as Anton 'comes to London once a week to film a podcast'. Molly and Tom took home the 50,000 prize after receiving 35 percent of the public vote, according to The Sun. Molly's ex Callum and his partner Jess received just below at 33 percent while Sophie and Josh, who placed third, got 15 percent of viewer votes. Georgia Steel and Toby Aromolaran were backed by 10 percent, leaving Georgia Harrison and Anton Danyluk last place with only seven percent of votes. Barry Keoghan has spoken about his young son Brando, saying he wants him to grow up to be 'proud' of his famous father. The Saltburn star, 31, and his now ex-girlfriend Alyson Kierans welcomed their 18-month-old son in August 2022. The actor told how his son motivates him to be 'the best person' and he wants to 'always be there' for him a she grows up. Speaking to Vanity Fair, he said: 'He has a lot to live up to, I tell you. It's great. I've seen him two days ago, and I spent some really good quality time with him. I've seen him grow. He's amazing. 'You see little resemblances and little characteristics coming through, and it's just beautiful. It's a new territory for me, and I want to be the best person for him. Barry Keoghan has spoken about his young son Brando, saying he wants him to grow up to be 'proud' of his famous father The actor told how his son motivates him to be 'the best person' and he wants to 'always be there' for him a she grows up 'It's a very important thing for mefor him to be able to grow up and be proud of his daddy, and to lean on his daddy. 'And if he has questions or anything, I'm always there for him in that sense of learning and growing with him and failing. [Picks up a stuffed toy wolf.] 'I've got his little wolf here, innit? He's young, but he's full of cheekiness already. His smile breaks my heart. When he makes eye contact with you, you just melt.' Barry shared the first photo of his back in September 2022, an adorable black and white snap of the pair together. The actor split from Brando's mother Alyson in mid-2023 and he is now dating pop star Sabrina Carpenter. Elsewhere during the interview, Barry discussed his role in Emerald Fennell's hit black comedy Saltburn. In the film, Barry plays Oliver Quick, a con artist posing as a working class university student who scams his way into the life of the wealthy Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi) and his eccentric family. In real life, Barry, from Summerhill in Dublin, spent seven years living in foster care after the death of his mother when he was 12. The Saltburn star and his now ex-girlfriend Alyson Kierans (pictured) welcomed their 18-month-old son in August 2022 Barry said: 'It's a very important thing for mefor him to be able to grow up and be proud of his daddy, and to lean on his daddy' In Saltburn, Barry plays Oliver Quick, a con artist posing as a working class university student who scams his way into the life of the wealthy Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi) Barry (right) spoke in the lates tissue of Vanity Fair The actor was asked whether it was difficult to handle playing his character, fabricates personal dramas similar to Barry's real-life upbrining. He said: 'Not necessarily, no. There are difficult moments where I do draw from experiences in my upbringing, and I do go to places to reach for that raw emotion and to present a real discovery there and feeling. That can damage you mentally as well. That's why I don't run onto every gig. 'I take time and am quite specific in what I want to do, because it's a process. It's an emotional journey. That's how I work. I tend to go to places, to relive moments. 'But with Oliver, there are some mirrors there. It's quite funny when he plays that moment where his parents are on drugs. 'It's quite a moment when we realize that he's been lying. But no, I didn't really draw parallels to him the way I have to certain other characters.' Jess Gale has responded to rumours of Callum Jones still being in love with his ex Molly Smith on Tuesday - following the Love Island All Stars final. The Love Island All Stars' finalists were seen at the airport in South Africa on Wednesday to return back to the UK. But before they return to normality, Jess, 24, has revealed what it was really like to hear from the public that the exes were 'still in love'. Throughout the ITV series, viewers were rooting for Molly, 29, and Callum, 27, to rekindle their relationship - after they split from their three-year relationship just six months before they made a shock arrival into the villa. Molly, who won the final with her new flame Tom Clare, 24, was also shocked to hear the public were hoping she and Callum would get back together - after Dani Dyer, Olivia Attwood and Bradley Dack spilt the tea during the series. Jess Gale, 24, has responded to the rumours of Callum Jones, 27, still being in love with his ex Molly Smith, 29, on Tuesday - following the Love Island All Stars final The Love Island All Stars' finalists were seen at the airport in South Africa on Wednesday to return back to the UK (Jess and Callum pictured) And speaking on the Love Island: The Morning After podcast with Indiyah Polack, Jess shed light on the situation. Poll Do you think Callum still loves Molly? Yes No Do you think Callum still loves Molly? Yes 386 votes No 160 votes Now share your opinion She said: 'Obviously when I first heard I was very shocked by it. And I thought was there anything I was overlooking? I didnt want to be naive. 'I was scared of being perceived as really bad if Callum and Molly were this 'love story' and I was standing in the way. 'So yeah I was a bit nervous about the whole thing. But Callum was very reassuring and he put it to bed quickly. So it was smooth running after that.' Callum added: 'Yeah even after the first week or two we were friends and to be fair I'm glad we kind of got that friendship. 'I know people maybe have seen past the friendship because they want the fairytale but that sometimes doesn't happen. 'Life is too short, it takes more energy to be bad with someone to be negative, than it does to get on with life. Life goes on.' It comes as Molly and Tom scraped their Love Island All Stars win on Monday night, according to new reports. Throughout the ITV series, viewers were rooting for Molly and Callum to rekindle their relationship - after they split from their three-year relationship just six months before they made a shock arrival into the villa (exes Molly and Callum pictured) But before they return to normality, Jess has revealed what it was really like to hear from the public that the exes were still in love Molly, who won the final with her new flame Tom Clare (right), was shocked to hear the public were hoping she and Callum would get back together - after Dani Dyer, Olivia Attwood and Bradley Dack spilt the tea And speaking on the Love Island: The Morning After podcast with Indiyah Polack , Jess shed light on the situation She said: 'Obviously when I first heard I was very shocked by it. And I thought was there anything I was overlooking? I didnt want to be naive. I was scared of being perceived as really bad if Callum and Molly were this 'love story' and I was standing in the way' Callum added: 'Yeah even after the first week or two we were friends and to be fair I'm glad we kind of got that friendship. I know people maybe have seen past the friendship because they want the fairytale but that sometimes doesn't happen' New voting percentages reveal Callum and Jess closely missed out on the win during the grand finale by two percent. Molly and Tom took home the 50,000 prize after receiving 35 percent of the public vote, according to The Sun. Molly's ex Callum and his partner Jess received just below at 33 percent while Sophie and Josh, who placed third, got 15 percent of viewer votes. Georgia Steel and Toby Aromolaran were backed by 10 percent, leaving Georgia Harrison and Anton Danyluk last place with only seven percent of votes. Ashley Park and her boyfriend Paul Forman attended their first public event as a couple. On Sunday the 32-year-old actress and the 29-year-old actor sat in the front row during the JW Anderson show, which took place as part of London Fashion Week. They put on a loved-up display as they held hands. The Emily In Paris actress was also featured in a behind-the-scenes shot that was shared on the Instagram account of her boyfriend, with whom she costars in the Netflix series, on Tuesday. In the snap, Forman placed his arm over Park's shoulder as they geared up for the show, and they held hands while posing for the snap. The actress initially revealed that she was in a relationship during an interview with People that was released this past July. Ashley Park and her boyfriend, Paul Forman, attended their first public event as a couple this past Sunday Although the performer did not mention Forman by name, she spoke about the positive impact he had made on her life ever since the start of her romance. 'I've just never been with someone so supportive. And not supportive like, "Oh, that's so cool for you," but who genuinely feels happiness when I do,' she said. Park and her boyfriend were subsequently spotted in each other's company during The Hollywood Reporter's Beauty Dinner, which took place in October, although they did not publicly confirm their romance at the time. The happy couple waited until this past January to let their fans know about their relationship, which they did via Instagram. The announcement was made after the actress was hospitalized for septic shock during her vacation in Thailand. The performer penned a lengthy message in her post's caption to both confirm her romance with Forman and to express her gratitude towards her boyfriend for supporting her through her health issues. She wrote: 'Grateful most of all to [Forman] for being unconditionally by my side through all this.' Park went on to detail how the actor had served as her support system as she recovered from the effects of septic shock. The 32-year-old actress and the 29-year-old actor sat in the front row during the JW Anderson show, which took place as part of London Fashion Week, and they put on a loved-up display while posing for a few snaps The Emily In Paris actress was also featured in a behind-the-scenes shot that was shared on the Instagram account of her boyfriend, with whom she costars in the Netflix series, on Tuesday The actress initially revealed that she was in a relationship during an interview with People that was released this past July The happy couple waited until this past January to let their fans know about their relationship, which they did via Instagram, and their announcement was made after the actress was hospitalized for septic shock during her vacation in Thailand She recalled that her boyfriend 'calmed my fears and held me through ambulances, three foreign hospitals, a week in the ICU, scary ERs, countless scans and tests and injections, excruciating pain, and so much confusion.' The Only Murders In The Building actress concluded her note by writing: 'I love you Paul. More than I can ever say.' Forman went on to share a pair of snaps featuring Park, one of which was taken during her hospitalization, on his account. The performer affectionately wrote that he would remain 'by your side, no matter what' in his post's caption. A director of Apple TV's hit series Slow Horses has told MPs that Artificial Intelligence could create soaps to rival the BBC in less than five years. James Hawes spoke to politicians at the UK culture, media and sport committee's inquiry into British film and high-end TV, and the impact of technology on the industry. During the inquiry, James shared the findings of a forum that was held after the news that the BBC's long-running soap Doctors would be axed at the end of the year. The soap had been plagued by falling ratings, after a bid to move the soap to a primetime slot failed to draw in new audiences. James, who is the vice-chairman of Directors UK, told MPs: 'One of the members there started talking about AI and it sent me investigating into how long it would be before a show like Doctors can be made entirely by generative AI and I took a poll with various VFX people.' A director of Apple TV's Slow Horses has told MPs that Artificial Intelligence could create soaps to rival the BBC in less than five years (EastEnders' Jacqueline Jossa pictured) 'I then spoke to some of the legal team who advised SAG(-AFTRA) and (the) Writers Guild (of America) over the summer ahead of coming here. 'And the best guess is between three to five years, somebody (will) be able to say ''create a scene in an ER room where a doctor comes in, he's having an affair with a woman so they're flirting, and somebody's dying on the table'' and it will start to create it and you will build those and it will be generative AI.' 'It may not be as polished as we'd been used to but that's how close we're getting and I find that hard to believe, for all the creatives involved.' 'I believe the genie's out of the bottle, I believe we have to live with this. I think it also is incredibly enabling. 'I think there are all parts of storytelling and British storytelling that can be filled in, enabled by this, but we have to protect the rights holders.' James also told MPs that Slow Horses, a series which he directed, was rejected by multiple British broadcasters before being picked up by AppleTV+. 'When Apple did pick it up,' he said, 'they wondered whether it was just too quirky, and too British, and whether this will travel even though, obviously, we have a reputation for the spy genre. 'The attachment of Gary Oldman (and) its subsequent success, shows that even 'quirky British' can travel and it is now the longest-running repeated series on Apple. James Hawes spoke to politicians at the UK culture, media and sport committee's inquiry into British film and high-end TV, and the impact of technology on the industry James also told MPs that Slow Horses, a series which he directed, was rejected by multiple British broadcasters before being picked up by AppleTV+ 'It has shown that we can think beyond British parochial or we can turn British smaller stories into ones that have an outward glance, and that have universal themes. 'I think that's really important. We have to be aware of the balance, the critical balance, between the benefits of inward investment and having our own domestic industry.' Developments in artificial intelligence, including the rise of ChatGPT, has put multiple industries under threat in recent years. Earlier this week, a 'terrifying' new tool, Sora, capable of producing hyper-realistic videos from text, prompted warnings from experts. Sora, unveiled by Open AI on Thursday, demonstrates powerful examples such as drone footage of Tokyo in the snow, the waves crashing against the cliffs of Big Sur or a grandmother enjoying a birthday party. Experts have warned the new artificial intelligence tool could wipe out entire industries such as film production and lead to a rise in deep fake videos ahead of the pivotal US presidential election. 'Generative AI tools are evolving so rapidly, and we have social networks, which leads to an Achilles heel in our democracy and it couldn't have happened at a worse time,' Oren Etzioni, founder of TruMedia.org, told CBS. 'As we're trying to sort this out we're coming up against one of the most consequential elections in history,' he added. The quality of AI-generated images, audio and video has rapidly increased over the past year, with companies such as OpenAI, Google, Meta and Stable Diffusion racing to make more advanced and accessible tools. 'Sora is able to generate complex scenes with multiple characters, specific types of motion, and accurate details of the subject and background' OpenAI explains on its website. 'The model understands not only what the user has asked for in the prompt, but also how those things exist in the physical world.' The tool is currently being tested and evaluated for potential safety risks, with no date for a public release yet available. The company has unveiled examples that are unlikely to be offensive, but experts warn the new technology could unleash a new wave of extremely lifelike deepfakes. 'We're trying to build this airplane as we're flying it, and it's going to land in November if not before, and we don't have the Federal Aviation Administration, we don't have the history and we don't have the tools in place to do this,' Etzioni warned. Sora 'will make it even easier for malicious actors to generate high-quality video deepfakes, and give them greater flexibility to create videos that could be used for offensive purposes,' Dr. Andrew Newell, chief scientific officer for identify verification firm, iProov, told CBS. 'Voice actors or people who make short videos for video games, education purposes or ads will be the most immediately affected,' Newell warned. Deep fake videos, including of a sexual nature, are becoming an increasing problem, for private individuals as well as those with a public profile. 'Look where we've come just in a year of image generation. Where are we going to be in a year?' Michael Gracey, a film director and visual effects expert told the Washington Post. Earlier this week, a 'terrifying' new tool, Sora, capable of producing hyper-realistic videos from text, prompted warnings from experts Another AI-generated video of Tokyo in the snow has shocked experts with its realism 'We'll be taking several important safety steps ahead of making Sora available in OpenAI's products' the company wrote. 'We are working with red teamers domain experts in areas like misinformation, hateful content, and bias who will be adversarially testing the model. Adding: 'We're also building tools to help detect misleading content such as a detection classifier that can tell when a video was generated by Sora.' Deep fake images gained added attention earlier this year when AI generated sexual images of Taylor Swift circulated on social media. The images originated on website Celeb Jihad, showing Swift in a series of sexual acts while dressed in Kansas City Chief memorabilia and in the stadium. The star was left 'furious' and considering legal action. President Joe Biden has also spoken about the use of AI and revealed he has fallen for deepfakes of his own voice. 'It's already happening. AI devices are being used to deceive people. Deep fakes use AI-generated audio and video to smear reputations,' Biden said, and 'spread fake news and commit fraud.' 'With AI, fraudsters can take three seconds recording of your voice. I've watched one of me a couple of times I said, 'When the hell did I say that?'' Biden told a crowd of officials. Then he spoke about the capacity of the technology to fool people through scams. IT experts have also warned of the potential of abuse of AI technology in the political space. On Friday several major technology companies signed a pact to take 'reasonable precautions' to prevent artificial intelligence tools from being used to disrupt democratic elections around the world. Executives from Adobe, Amazon, Google, IBM, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI and TikTok have vowed to adopt preventative measures. 'Everybody recognises that no one tech company, no one government, no one civil society organization is able to deal with the advent of this technology and its possible nefarious use on their own,' said Nick Clegg, president of global affairs for Meta after the signing. Carey Mulligan cut a stylish figure in an all-black ensemble at the Spaceman film photocall at 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin on Wednesday. Spaceman is a Netflix adaptation of the novel Spaceman of Bohemia by Czech writer Jaroslav Kalfar. Carey looked stunning in her elegant ensemble as she posed for snaps with co-star Adam Sandler. The actress, 38, slipped into an oversized shoulder-padded blazer with a black belt wrapped around her torso. Carey teamed the look with fitted trousers and stilettos, while flashing her dazzling white smile for the cameras. Carey Mulligan cut a stylish figure in an all-black ensemble at the Spaceman film photocall at 74th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin on Wednesday The actress, 38, slipped into an oversized shoulder-padded blazer with a black belt wrapped around her torso Carey looked stunning in her elegant ensemble as she posed for snaps with co-star Adam Sandler Meanwhile Adam, 57, donned bold blue trousers and trainers, teamed with a white floral shirt. Adam landed the lead role as Jakub Prochazka and Carey stars opposite him as his character's wife Lenka. Spaceman tells the story of a Czech astronaut sent on a lengthy mission into outer space while his life on Earth slowly fades away. Emmy Award winning Chernobyl director Johan Renck will be behind the camera for the movie and filming is due to start in a few weeks. It comes after days after Carey enjoyed a Maestro reunion with co-star Bradley Cooper on Sunday as they attended the BAFTAs. The English actress exuded glamour in a strapless black gown that cinched in at her slender waist and flared out into a billowing train. Carey - who is nominated for Best Actress for her role in Maestro - added to the look with a dazzling silver and sapphire necklace and diamond necklace. Carey teamed the look with fitted trousers and stilettos, while flashing her dazzling white smile for the cameras Her short blonde locks were styled straight and she opted for a soft bluhs makeup palette Meanwhile Adam, 57, donned bold blue trousers and trainers, teamed with a white floral shirt Adam landed the lead role as Jakub Prochazka and Carey stars opposite him as his character's wife Lenka Spaceman is a Netflix adaptation of the novel Spaceman of Bohemia by Czech writer Jaroslav Kalfar She will go up against, Fantasia Barrino, The Color Purple; Sandra Huller, Anatomy Of A Fall; Vivian Oparah, Rye Lane; Margot Robbie , Barbie; Emma Stone , Poor Things. On the red carpet she looked in high spirits as she larked around with Bradley, who is up for Best Actor and Best Director. The pair played married couple Felicia Montealegre and Leonard Bernstein in Netflix hit Maestro, a Leonard Bernstein biopic that is nominated for Best Film. Iris Law arrived in Italy on Wednesday ahead of back-to-back presentations at Nilan Fashion Week. The model daughter of actors Sadie Frost and Jude Law landed at Milan Malpensa Airport, where she was seen with a single suitcase while waiting for her car. Law, 23, showed off her abs in a cropped grey vest and low-slung trousers as she made her way out of the teeming airport shortly after landing. A matching hooded top and black leather jacket completed an understated ensemble as she readied herself for the short journey to her hotel. Milan Fashion Week launched on Wednesday with presentations from Iceberg and Antonio Marras, Diesel, Del Core, Roberto Cavalli, Etro and a debut from Marco De Vincenzo scheduled to take place throughout the day. Iris Law arrived in Italy on Wednesday ahead of back-to-back presentations at Milan Fashion Week The model daughter of actors Sadie Frost and Jude Law landed at Milan Malpensa Airport, where she was seen with a single suitcase while waiting for her car On Thursday, Max Mara, Prada, Emporio Armani, and Moschino will dominate proceedings at Milan's the Museo della Permanente. Tods, Blumarine, Sportmax, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, Gucci, Marni, Sunnei, MSGM, Versace, Philipp Plein, Ferrari, Ferragamo, Jil Sander, Missoni, Bally, and Bottega Veneta are also expected to showcase new collections over the course of the week. Global retailers said they were hoping to place orders for bold, eye-catching styles at Milan Fashion Week for the autumn 2024 season, despite a recent trend for so-called "quiet luxury" designs characterized by understated elegance. The clothing trade show, which starts on Tuesday, following New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week this month, includes big names such as Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Versace. Global luxury demand has settled down after a strong post-pandemic rebound, with consultancy firm Bain forecasting a "probable scenario" of a 1% to 4% growth in sales this year. 'After a period where brands were focused on classicism and simplicity, on "quiet luxury" and timeless products, I expect a move towards more pronounced creativity,' said Federica Montelli, fashion consultant and former head of fashion at Italian high-end department store chain Rinascente. 'Given smaller retailers' budgets, I hope they can find a push to go further (over that budget),' she added. The National Chamber for Italian Fashion said this year's event is expected to attract more international buyers than it did before the pandemic, but did not provide figures. Law looked typically stylish in a cropped grey vest and low-slung trousers as she made her way out of the teeming airport shortly after landing Among those buyers will be Bosse Myhr, director of womenswear at British luxury department store chain Selfridges. Myhr said he hopes to see a "fashion moment" for Belgian designer Glenn Martens of Diesel. The Italian streetwear brand sells shimmery denim jackets for $995 and stretched leather bootcut trousers for $950. Some shoppers are tightening their spending on luxury goods amid an economic slowdown and rising prices, said Federico Giglio, chief executive of Giglio.com, an Italy-based retailer of high-end looks from Versace and Valentino, among other brands. Given that, 'what we expect from the collections is that designers come up with something new, which can motivate people to spend,' he added. Tiffany Haddish seemed to be in high spirits when she was spotted after touching down in Israel. The 44-year-old comedian and actress was spotted making her way through Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, and she showed off a winning smile while decked out in a camouflage jacket. She previously showed off the look during her 16-hour flight, when she filmed an Instagram video that divided her fans. Although some commenters were supportive of her trip to Israel, others criticized her for what they assumed would be a purely pro-Israeli visit amid its attacks on Gaza. As of Monday, the Gaza Health Ministry reported that 29,000 Palestinians had been killed since October 7, and two thirds of the dead are women and children, according to the Associated Press. Tiffany Haddish, 44, beamed as she was spotted at Ben Gurion Airport near Israel's Tel Aviv on Wednesday. She was slammed by fans for making the trip in the first place and for a video filmed on the plane that some derided as tone deaf Gaza is a Palestinian territory bordering Israel, which has effectively controlled via a years-long blockade. Tiffany looked sporty and fresh-faced as she walked through the airport. She rocked a burgundy hoodie with a matching set of sweatpants, and she complemented them with sporty mauve trainers. The Girls Trip star covered up with a camouflage jacket, and she wore a black hip bag slung around her torso while carrying a black Louis Vuitton backpack. She appeared to go makeup free, and she wore her dyed-blond hair close cropped. Tiffany faced flak on social media on Tuesday when she shared a clip from the business-class cabin of a flight bound for Israel, where she said she was visiting to get a better understanding of its ongoing conflict with Hamas. Haddish spoke to her more than 7.4 million followers on Instagram as she relaxed in business class and nursed an orange juice. Haddish noted that she was 'sleepy as hell' and had planned to rest over the course of the 16-hour flight ahead of her as she departed out of Los Angeles. The Emmy-winning actress-comic said she planned on visiting locations including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the Dead Sea in an effort to gain more knowledge on the conflict, which began October 7 after Hamas rampaged a music festival in southern Israel, slaughtering around 1,200 people and taking hostage another 250. 'This is an educational trip for me ... Im gonna learn about the politics,' Haddish said. 'See, I feel like I cant believe I see everything on the Internet ... I need to go see for myself, Im one of those people.' Haddish rocked a burgundy sweatsuit with mauve trainers, a camouflage jacket and a black Louis Vuitton backpack Haddish faced flak on social media on Tuesday as she shared a clip from the first-class cabin of a flight bound for Israel, where she said she was visiting to get a better understanding of its ongoing conflict with Hamas Haddish spoke to her more than 7.4 million followers on Instagram as she relaxed in business class and nursed an orange juice She added, 'Im gonna go see for myself, Im gonna go see, Im gonna go see all of it, Im gonna ask questions see with my own eyes.' Haddish said she didn't 'believe everything' she sees on social media, citing her own personal experiences in which information posted about her turned out to be incorrect. She said, 'I know a lot of stuff on social media be not true because ... I see stuff people say about me, and I live my life I'm living my life and Im like, "Thats not what I said, thats not true."' Haddish said she wanted to form her own opinion based off experience before she spoke publicly on the topic, adding that she's personally heard from people on both sides of the conflict. 'Im gonna go see and then Im gonna tell yall what I think, Im gonna go see with my own eyes,' Haddish said. Haddish said she 'did not like' things she has seen online about the ongoing conflict, and felt it was safe to travel to Israel after seeing others do so. 'I know a lot of people that have gone; so many people have gone and then come back alive, come back fine,' she said. 'So I want to go see - I want to go see, and we gonna see what it is and Ill show yall some of it while Im there. 'Im gonna go talk to people, Im gonna go find out why is this happening? Why is this going down?' A picture taken Tuesday inn southern Israel shows destroyed buildings in the Gaza Strip amid ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas The Emmy-winning actress-comic said she planned on visiting locations including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the Dead Sea in an effort to gain more knowledge on the conflict Haddish said she 'did not like' things she has seen online about the ongoing conflict, and felt it was safe to travel to Israel after seeing others do so One user noted how Haddish's luxurious travels - 'First class, I see' - undermined the devastation of the ongoing conflict One commenter said that Haddish was 'clowning for clout' with the international trip Among the torrent of reactions, one commenter suggested Haddish take the matter more seriously In response to one commenter who asked why she wasn't going to the Gaza Strip, Haddish replied, 'Who said I wasn't going to Gaza? 'I said I was gonna see with my own eyes, got to go to Israel first and isn't Gaza in Israel? Ain't it all on the same little piece of land, same ... surrounded by water?' Gaza borders Israel and Egypt. Visitors entering from Israel require a visa from the nation, which is typically difficult to obtain, making it unlikely that Haddish would see any of the destruction in Gaza with her own eyes. It's also unclear if Haddish had decided to visit Israel on her own, or if she had been invited by an organization. However, Israel's account on X (formerly Twitter) celebrated her visited on Wednesday by sharing a clip from the controversial video. 'Stop what you're doing. The one and only @TiffanyHaddish is on her way to Israel,' the account wrote. 'Tiffany, can we PLEASE throw you a Bat Mitzvah at the Western Wall?' The comment section on Tiffany's video was a blend of reactions, with some wishing her a safe trip, and others saying she was behaving in a manner too cavalier while headed to the battle-torn region. One user noted how Haddish's luxurious travels 'First class, I see' undermined the devastation of the ongoing conflict, while another one commenter suggested Haddish take the matter more seriously. Another commenter said that Haddish was 'clowning for clout' with the international trip. A user advised Haddish to visit the entirety of the region to get the full story. 'Go to Gaza. Not just Tel Aviv,' the user said. 'Then come back and report. Otherwise it's like just going to Wall Street and say you've seen all of New York.' Many users expressed their personal political opinions on the conflict in relation to Haddish's travels. 'The fact you can fly and "holiday" in Israel but Gaza is pretty much destroyed gives you all the information you really need,' the user said. 'This isnt a war, its genocide.' Another said, 'Yeah I'm out. You're on the wrong side of history,' the the hashtag, #FREEPALESTINE. Some commenters expressed disgust with Haddish's demeanor, while others wished her well The comment section was a blend of reactions, with some saying she seemed too cavalier on her trip to the battle-torn region Said one user: 'Do some work to learn about the harms of white supremacy and settler colonialism in Palestine. White Europeans stole the land of indigenous Palestinians and murdered or displaced most of them. 'Palestinians continue to live under occupation and settler colonialism to this day. Palestinians are continuing to be ethnically cleansed by Israelis. We are witnessing a genocide committed by the Israeli military against the Palestinian people live.' Another user said, 'Girl, you better be joking. This s*** isnt funny and very disappointing.' Celebrity Big Brother star Ekin-Su Culculoglu threw Lorraine into chaos on Monday morning when she inexplicably cancelled an appearance on the show last minute. The reality veteran, 29, who won Love Island in 2020, was ejected from CBB on Friday night, after which she caused a social media storm by insisting she was badly-edited on the show without a true depiction of her behaviour. As Lorraine Kelly teased her upcoming show on Good Morning Britain, she told host Susanna Reid that her planned appearance was cancelled under mysterious circumstances - leading to a snide dig from Susanna. Jenna Ortega landed on the cover of the 30th edition of Vanity Fair's Hollywood issue along with Natalie Portman and Jodie Comer. The Southern California native gushed about her new role in the Beetlejuice sequel and the second season of her show Wednesday. And the 21-year-old also talked about how she gave up her childhood to be a Disney star. As a child she starred on Disney's Stuck in the Middle which aired from 2016 until 2018. For her Vanity Fair cover she looked every inch a movie star as she wore a long sleeveless skin-tone dress that showed off her chest and wore her signature bangs. Jenna Ortega was interviewed by Vanity Fair as she gushed over her new role in the Beetlejuice sequel and the second season of her show Wednesday Also on the Vanity Fair cover was Natalie Portman, Jodie Comer, Lily Gladstone and Greta Lee, among others But it wasn't always easy. Ortega feels as though she traded her childhood for a Hollywood career when she started acting at age 10. Jenna said: 'Since I was eight, people have been calling me an old woman. 'When youre working and spending every day in an environment where youre surrounded by a bunch of adults and you have to talk with them and work in a professional manner.' In an interview with Teen Vogue, Ortega said she resonated with teens who lost key moments in life due to COVID. 'I feel for the kids who are missing their prom or missing the opportunity to graduate or cant have that high school experience they typically would.... because I think thats such an important part of life that I missed out on and wish I had had.' Despite having the career she dreamed of at six, Jenna still feels as though she traded her childhood for it. She told Vanity Fair that acting was a decision she made at age 10, and is 'living off of a 10-year-olds choices.' Her first job was in 2012 on the show Rob, followed by appearances on CSI: NY and Days Of Our Lives. The star also played the Vice President's daughter in Iron Man 3 in 2013. She was only 13 when she started working on Stuck In The Middle. The star gained attention from starring in Disney's Stuck in the Middle and viral Netflix show Wednesday; seen in January The star went on to gush over her new role in the Beetlejuice sequel in which she plays Lydia Deetzs daughter. She added that her character is far from 'bright and sunny at all.' When asked about the second season of Wednesday, the star said that each episode feels like a mini-movie in the sense that it can be a standalone. Jenna was excited to reveal that this season 'leans a little more into horror.' Jenna revealed that the second season of Wednesday 'leans a little more into horror' Despite her character history, Jenna says she is open and excited when coming into dark roles. The star said that the world needs more 'weird' movies like Wednesday and Beetlejuice. Also in the Vanity Fair issue were stars like Bradley Cooper, Natalie Portman, and Pedro Pascal. Home Improvement star Zachery Ty Bryan was seen for the first time since his arrest for a DUI as he spent happy hour at a bar in La Quinta, California, on Tuesday afternoon. Onlookers first spotted the 42-year-old actor while he was sitting at the bar of Los Arcos, and he eventually left after paying his tab. The embattled performer then took an Uber to a local Applebee's and promptly propped himself up at the restaurant's bar before he ordered a draft beer and checked his cell phone. Bryan was arrested for a DUI in California on Saturday, just months after he served seven days in jail and was sentenced to 36 months of supervised probation for assaulting his ex-girlfriend. The actor, who played one of Tim Allen's sons on the blockbuster ABC sitcom from 1991 to 1999, has spent the last several years in legal trouble related to domestic violence. Home Improvement star Zachery Ty Bryan was seen for the first time since his arrest for a DUI as he spent happy hour at a bar in La Quinta, California, on Tuesday afternoon Onlookers first spotted the 42-year-old actor while he was sitting at the bar of Los Arcos, and he eventually left the eatery after paying his tab The embattled performer was seen at the bar with a draft beer in front of him Bryan's latest alleged domestic violence incident came just a month after he claimed that his previous arrest in 2020 was a 'wake-up call' as he tries to rebuild his life. A spokesperson for the Riverside County Sheriff's Office said that at 2:36am Saturday, Bryan faced a traffic stop from deputies with the La Quinta Police Department after his vehicle was suspected of being involved in a recent traffic accident. He showed 'indications of impairment' when police interviewed him and he was arrested for driving under the influence, having committed prior offenses. Bryan was booked into John Benoit Detention Center at around 5am Saturday. He posted $50,000 in bail later that date, according to county prison records. His next court date is scheduled for April 23. In October, the actor plead guilty to felony assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence in an Oregon court. As part of a negotiated resolution, according to The Hollywood Reporter, a second count was dismissed. The performer checked his phone while sitting at Applebee's Bryan stayed comfortable in a black hoodie and matching pants as he enjoyed happy hour The actor did not appear to be all that concerned about his recent legal troubles Rather than him spending '19 to 20 months' in Oregon Department of Corrections, he received a 'downward dispositional departure' to three years of supervised probation and just a week in jail. Bryan was also forced to 'abide by a set of conditions typical of domestic violence cases' that include 'no contact with the victim without the probation officer's approval, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, and no alcohol and drug use moving forward.' 'Mr. Bryan decided to accept this resolution and admit that he recklessly caused physical injury to his domestic partner to avoid further trauma to his family so they could move on and heal,' Lane County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Parosa said in a statement at the time. If he violates any conditions of his parole, the actor will have to serve '19 to 20 months of prison time that the court suspended under the deal.' While speaking about his client's guilty plea, Bryan's lawyer told The Wrap: 'He believes this is the manner he could best resolve this to avoid further trauma to his family.' Last summer, he was arrested for fourth-degree felony assault in Eugene, Oregon for getting physical with a woman, who was not named by authorities. Bryan was arrested for a DUI in California on Saturday, just months after he served seven days in jail and was sentenced to 36 months of supervised probation for assaulting his ex-girlfriend. He is pictured in October 2023 Bryan's latest alleged domestic violence incident came just a month after he claimed that his previous arrest in 2020 was a 'wake-up call' as he tries to rebuild his life. Pictured: Bryan posing for a mugshot in October 2020 Bryan had rose to national fame in the 1990s as the eldest child on Home Improvement, which also starred Tim Allen and future teen heartthrob Jonathan Taylor Thomas Bryan was charged with a pair of felonies and a misdemeanor in connection with the July incident: assault, robbery and harassment. In October of 2020, Bryan was arrested on accusations he assaulted and strangled his fiancee Johnnie Faye Cartwright, and in February 2021, he entered guilty pleas to two misdemeanor domestic violence charges in connection with the incident. Cartwright, who got engaged to the actor in November of 2021, shares three young children with him: one-year-old daughter Kennedy, and five-month-old twins Parker and Sequoia. She told US Weekly in a statement in August: 'I ask everyone to please be respectful of our privacy for the sake of the children and our families so the healing process can begin.' 'I'll always want what's best for the father of my children,' Cartwright told the publication of Bryan, adding that 'trauma can bring struggles in many shapes and forms,' while giving her take on the reporting of the recent incident. 'It's a horrible situation that's going to be spun in so many ways,' she said. 'I've learned firsthand the truth will never align with what's been put out there.' The latest charge appears to indicate that he is accused of attacking someone who had previously obtained a domestic violence restraining order, though the alleged victim has not yet been named. Members of the Eugene Police Department told TMZ that police received a call about a physical altercation between and man and a woman at a local residence. 'Mr. Bryan decided to accept this resolution and admit that he recklessly caused physical injury to his domestic partner to avoid further trauma to his family so they could move on and heal,' Lane County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Parosa told THR in a statement (seen in 2016) After the show ended in 1999, Bryan turned to film roles and earned guest spots on television shows. He is pictured here on Home Improvement with Tim Allen However, once officers responded to the scene Bryan was nowhere to be found. They reportedly were able to track him down, though, and he was transported to the jail and booked on the felony assault charge. It remains unclear if his fiancee Cartwright, who was the target of his 2020 attack, was also the victim of the recent alleged altercation. The former child star claimed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the physical altercation in October of that year started because his girlfriend at the time, Johnnie Faye Cartwright, was upset he was 'living a double life' and was still married even though he had announced his divorce two weeks earlier. He later plead guilty to two misdemeanor counts of menacing and assault in the fourth degree and was sentenced to a three-year probation and attendance in a violence intervention program, and was ordered to have no further contact with the victim. Bryan said at the time he now tries to stay away from alcohol, and he and Cartwright were still together and were now raising their children. He rose to national fame in the 1990s as the eldest child on Home Improvement, which also starred Tim Allen and future teen heartthrob Jonathan Taylor Thomas. After the show ended in 1999, Bryan turned to film roles and earned guest spots on television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Boston Public and Veronica Mars. Bryan continues to face scrutiny for his role selling tokens for an ag-tech company that never materialized; seen in 2016 with his ex-wife Carly Matros In recent years, he has become a conservative commentator on FOX News and The Daily Wire He then became an executive producer on independent films, and married his high school sweetheart Carly Matros in 2007. They would go on to have four children that they raised together in a multi-million dollar home in Newport Beach, California. The youngest, a son, was born in March 2019, joining three daughters including a set of twins. In more recent years, Bryan has made a name for himself as a conservative commentator on platforms like FOX News and The Daily Wire. In September 2020, Bryan announced he and Matros were getting a divorce and in a ridiculous twist he appeared to have plagiarized Armie Hammer's divorce announcement almost word for word. He now admits to The Hollywood Reporter: 'I was just in party freaking mode making movies, traveling, drinking. I wasn't living the way I was raised, you know what I mean? 'I was not being a faithful husband, and I was not being the best me,' he continued. 'I thought I would be able to go out and do whatever I wanted, have fun, come home and be a family man with my kids. That's not how the real world works.' Just 16 days after the divorce announcement, in October of 2020, Bryan was arrested in Oregon and charged with felony strangulation, fourth-degree assault, coercion, menacing, harassment and interference with making a police report. The most serious charges, including felony strangulation, were later dropped and he pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. He was also ordered by the court not to 'buy, possess or consume alcoholic beverages' or be in any place that sells or serves alcohol as its primary purpose. It was his second arrest of 2020, after being booked for DUI that May. He plead guilty in that case as well, and was sentenced to five years probation and 18 months in a multiple-offender alcohol program due to a record of other DUI arrests in 2004, 2007 and 2017. Bryan with former Home Improvement co-star Taryn Smith at a mini-reunion in 2018 According to Oregon police records obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Cartwright claimed that on the night of the alleged assault, Bryan, with whom she had been in a 'sexually intimate' relationship for two years, woke her up demanding to know what happened to his cellphone charging cables. She alleged that he 'pulled her hair' and punched her in the face multiple times. The two then fell on a set of stairs, at which point, the police report says, Bryan 'grabbed Cartwright's neck with both hands and choked her' for about 45 seconds. Responding officers said they saw multiple injuries on Cartwright, who claimed Bryan became abusive a month earlier. But Bryan claimed Cartwright woke him up and bit him in the groin. He alleged that her injuries were self-inflicted in an effort to set him up because she 'wanted to ruin his career' after he said he wanted to break up and stop paying her rent. 'I heard her tell dispatch, 'This is the guy from Home Improvement. He's the famous guy,'' Bryan reportedly told officers on the scene. Bryan with ex-girlfriend Johnnie Faye Cartwright, whom he was later accused of assaulting, and their child Looking back, he says the arrest 'got so blown out of proportion' by the media, and claims it was not as physical as the police report states. He explained that he and Cartwright began seeing each other when he was still married and there were times she would get upset over his 'double life.' And even though he announced his divorce, Bryan claimed the fight escalated that night because they had both 'been drinking too much. 'We didn't even really get that physical,' he said. 'We got really loud. We were screaming and because we were in a townhome that had [thin walls], everybody could hear.' He continued to say Cartwright 'was at the time just really upset about my situation.' And, he claimed, 'At the end of the day, [the police] throw a bunch of counts at you because they ultimately want you to plead something,' noting that cops nicknamed him 'Country Club Zach' and seemed to poke fun at his fame. 'I could've fought it... but that's more stress and drama,' Bryan explained. 'I got two misdemeanors and called it a day.' But he said he now thanks God for his arrest, describing it as a 'wake up call.' 'I went through a situation that I'm pretty sure plenty of people across the globe experience with their partners, and that was a learning experience,' Bryan said. He acknowledged he 'definitely [has] an issue with drinking' but does not believe the term 'alcoholic' applies to him. 'Dude, I started drinking when I was 14,' he said. 'Back then I was going to nightclubs and they would just let me in because I was the kid from Home Improvement.' Now, he says, he tries to stay away from alcohol, explaining: 'I'm not going out and getting lit, and that takes away a lot of my problems.' He and Cartwright were still together prior to his latest arrest. Home Improvement was considered one of the biggest sitcom hits of the 1990s In November 2021, just one year after his arrest, Bryan revealed that he and Cartwright were engaged to be married. Based on the timeline of his now private Instagram account, The Hollywood Reporter found, Cartwright was already pregnant with a girl at the time. He announced the birth on the social media platform in spring 2022. That November, Bryan also revealed that he and Cartwright were expecting twins, and she gave birth in May. They made a recent appearance at a London Fashion Week party as the bi-annual style event hit the English capital earlier this week. And following the outing, Ed Westwick and his fiancee Amy Jackson jetted to Milan on Wednesday, as they attended the Diesel Fashion Week show. The Gossip Girl actor, 36, who recently popped the question during a ski trip, was wearing a stylish distressed trench coat with a pair of ripped jeans. Ed wore the jacket over a white vest and accessorised with a chain necklace, while completing his high fashion look with steel-toe cap boots. Meanwhile, Amy, 32, cut a cool figure in another distressed ensemble, a heavily ripped denim co-ord, which she wore with stiletto boots. Ed Westwick and his fiancee Amy Jackson made another fashionable appearance on Wednesday, as they attended the Diesel Milan Fashion Week show The Gossip Girl actor, 36, who recently popped the question during a ski trip, was wearing a stylish distressed trench coat with a pair of ripped jeans Ed wore the jacket over a white vest and accessorised with a chain necklace, while completing his high fashion look with steel-toe cap boots The Bollywood actress wore her dark hair in a wet look style and enhanced her pretty features with a soft pallet of make-up. The couple looked head over heels in love as they attended the Perfect X AMI Issue Six launch party on Monday night. They looked completely smitten with each other as they walked hand-in-hand to the Dovetale restaurant at 1 Hotel Mayfair. The future husband and wife showcased their compatibility by donning complementary outfits for the glitzy event. Amy looked effortlessly chic in an oversized beige double-breasted blazer with matching trousers. The mother-of-one also toted a tiny black handbag and boosted her height with a pair of high heeled boots. While Ed wore a matching suit to his fiancee, but opted for a black pinstripe version teamed with smart shoes and a silver cross necklace. Ed got down on one knee to pop the question to Amy in G'staad, Switzerland, with the couple announcing their exciting news last month. Meanwhile, Amy, 32, cut a cool figure in another distressed ensemble, a heavily ripped denim co-ord, which she wore with stiletto boots The Bollywood actress wore her dark hair in a wet look style and enhanced her pretty features with a soft pallet of make-up The couple took to Instagram to share a slew of sweet snaps of the romantic proposal, captioning them: 'Hell Yes [ring emoji].' Adele Narcisi, Gemmologist & Design Expert at Queensmith previously revealed that Amy's engagement ring is made from a natural diamond, it could be worth up to 100,000. However, she noted that it's more likely that the diamond was lab-grown, meaning it could actually be worth just a quarter of that. She told MailOnline: 'Amy Jacksons engagement ring looks to be a stunning and timeless 4-carat oval solitaire diamond, a shape that has gained popularity in recent years. 'Based on its size and if it is natural, this diamond is estimated to be worth around 90,000 to 100,000. 'There are typically only a handful of top-quality four-carat natural diamonds available at any given time. Natural diamonds this size are a rarity. Ed got down on one knee to pop the question to Amy in G'staad, Switzerland, with the couple announcing their exciting news last month 'With a natural diamond, we'd recommend sticking between grades D to F colour for an icey, colourless diamond, VS2 and higher clarity making sure there are no inclusions visible to the naked eye. 'There's no need to go higher than VVS2 as the diamond will cost far more but look more or less the same. Ed met Amy, who has four-year-old son, Andreas, with her ex-fiance George Panayatiou, at Silverstone racetrack in 2021. A source told The Sun on Sunday at the time: 'Ed and Amy are a really good match. They hit it off straight away. 'Both like to have fun and are career-driven. Theyre enjoying getting to know each other for now.' The couple went Instagram official just before Valentine's Day in 2022, with Amy penning a sweet note on her social media just in time for the occasion. Love Island All Stars' Joanna Chimonides flashed her abs as she stepped out with Chris Taylor on Wednesday after jetting back to the UK from South Africa. The influencer, 27, and Chris, 33, reunited as they headed to the Under The Duvet podcast to discuss their time on the show. They were coupled up briefly before Joanna started to question their bond - before she was dumped. Chris was then voted off the show a few days later and they revealed during the final as they returned to South Africa that they were still talking and hanging out and didn't shut down a future romance. On the outing Joanna showed off her toned physique in a black crop top which she wore with a biker jacket and high-waisted jeans. Love Island All Stars' Joanna Chimonides flashed her abs as she stepped out with Chris Taylor on Wednesday after jetting back to the UK from South Africa On the outing Joanna showed off her toned physique in a black crop top which she wore with a biker jacket and high-waisted jeans Meanwhile Chris looked summery despite the dreary London weather as he wore linen trousers and a white shirt. After he was dumped Chris admitted he fancied Joanna for four years before meeting her in South African villa. The reality star added that he wanted to give their relationship a chance outside of the show when they jet back to the UK. Sitting down to chat with host Maya Jama, Chris opened up about his feelings towards Joanna, despite them having a rocky couple of days. He explained: 'I fancied Joanna for a good four years, so when she walked in I was excited. 'It got left at a really awkward point when we were smack bang in the middle of figuring out what it could have been so we are left with questions.' During the exit interview, he added: 'My experience with Joanna was amazing. When she came in, I was very excited. I've fancied her for a long time. 'As soon as she arrived in the Villa I could tell there was something between us. The influencer, 27, and Chris, 33, reunited as they headed to the Under The Duvet podcast to discuss their time on the show The pair were coupled up briefly before Joanna started to question their bond - before she was dumped Meanwhile Chris looked summery despite the dreary London weather as he wore linen trousers and a white shirt 'We had lots of deep chats in bed and I learnt so much about her on a deeper level and ultimately we were both very comfortable with each other.' On the show, just 24 hours after viewers saw Joe Garratt and Joanna get the boot, Chris shortly followed behind them. When quizzed by Maya about her time in the villa, Joanna revealed that Chris became protective over her in the villa. After being asked to discuss her time with the boy, she said: 'My experience with Chris was beautiful. We really got along and got to know each other on a different level. After he was dumped Chris admitted he fancied Joanna for four years before meeting her in South African villa The reality star added that he wants to give their relationship a chance outside of the show when they jet back to the UK On the show, just 24 hours after viewers saw Joe Garratt and Joanna got the boot, Chris shortly followed behind them 'It's a shame how it's ended now as I think we might have reconciled and come back together. Chris is so caring and protective of me, he's lovely.' She also quipped: 'It's bittersweet, I was getting to know Chris and Callum but things have now been left up in the air and open ended. 'There was definitely room for progression and you never know where it could have ended up. 'They are both great guys, so wherever my path would have led me I would have been happy.' Children's TV presenter Sarah-Jane Honeywell has spoken out about her devastation over losing her Cbeebies job when she posed for nude photographs. The TV and radio personality, now 50, worked for the BBC children's channel when she agreed to a PETA campaign which involved her posing nearly-naked. The 2011 photographs showed her lying in a pair of nude knickers with her hands covering her modesty, while lying on a plate of food in London's Trafalgar Square. However, the charity campaign sent her world crashing down around her, as she revealed she was suicidal and facing 100,00 of debt. Speaking about the ordeal to The Sun's Fabulous magazine, Sarah-Jane said: 'I felt like I'd let my husband down. I'd let my parents down. I'd let everybody down. Children's TV presenter Sarah-Jane Honeywell has spoken out about her devastation over losing her Cbeebies job when she posed for nude photographs The TV and radio personality, now 50, worked for the BBC children's channel when she agreed to a PETA campaign which involved her posing nearly-naked 'I walked to the train station in Liverpool and, I hadn't thought I was going to kill or hurt myself, but it was like a compulsion. 'It was like, "I need to jump". And then I remember my little boy kicking and that shocked me out of it. Sarah-Jane is mother to her two children, Indiana, six, and Phoenix, eight, with her husband Ayden Callaghan, who previously starred in Hollyoaks. She got the job aged 29 in 2001 and was earning around 300 per episode. Sarah-Jane clicked with her co-star Justin Fletcher, who played Mr Tumble, however she claimed he ghosted her once the photos were released. The former kid's TV star admitted she was shocked by the strict regulation on the channel, as she was once scolded for getting a tattoo of fairy wings on her back. Sarah-Jane described having to be 'squeaky, squeaky clean'. However, she insisted she didn't think the racy snaps for PETA would be a problem and she claimed they originally told her she would be wearing underwear. The 2011 photographs showed her lying in a pair of nude knickers with her hands covering her modesty, while lying on a plate of food in London's Trafalgar Square However, the charity campaign sent her world crashing down around her, as she revealed she was suicidal and facing 100,00 of debt (pictured 2018) But when she got into position they told her going nude would grab more headlines and she agreed because it was for a good cause. Although her opinion changed when the photos were released and she recalls 'her legs almost going from underneath her' when she saw the coverage. Sarah-Jane recalled calling Justin because she had a bad feeling but said that she never heard from him of any of the other Cbeebies stars again. She said that she discovered through a newspaper article that the BBC had said she no longer worked on the channel. The backlash she received was massive and someone even set up a 'I Hate Sarah-Jane Honeywell' Facebook group to troll her. In the coming years, Sarah said her work offers dried up and she struggled to pay her debts, by March 2015 she had hit rock bottom and wanted to end her life. However after feeling her unborn baby, Phoenix, kick she was given hope for the future and named him because he 'rose from the ashes'. In September last year, Sarah-Jane admitted she is still 'constantly mum-shamed' after being sacked over the topless snap. Speaking in an interview with The Sun, the TV personality explained how she still faces backlash and even experienced 'uproar' over a recent holiday photo. In September last year, Sarah-Jane admitted she is still 'constantly mum-shamed' after being sacked over the topless snap (pictured on Tikkabilla in 2002) Drama: Speaking in a new interview with The Sun, the TV personality explained how she still faces backlash and even experienced 'uproar' over a recent holiday photo (pictured) Sarah-Jane said: 'I am constantly mum-shamed, I've come to expect it. But I certainly wasn't expecting such an uproar when I shared my snaps from our recent holiday to Spain.' She said: 'I had let my CBoobies out on a beach in La Manga and I posted a photo of myself topless on Instagram. 'It was just the silhouette of my body and then another taken from behind - people were outraged. My comments section was flooded with strangers concerned about my 'poor boys.' Sarah-Jane admitted she also lied about ever having taken illegal drugs when she was asked during a medical at the BBC. The star had previously dabbled with cocaine and pills but feared being honest would cost her the job. Sarah-Jane said she also struggled to get on with some of her behind the scenes colleagues and even recalled one incident where a co-worker told her she looked 'old and ugly' and that her hair was too long. While she now works on BBC Radio Lincoln presenting a Sunday afternoon show, she still has a sour taste left in her mouth over her time with CBeebies and doesn't let her sons watch the channel. Joey King took to Instagram to share photos of her night out with friends and husband Stephen Piet on Tuesday evening. The Kissing Booth star looked stunning in a black cropped jacket that showed off her abs. And the beauty added a matching skirt paired with silver jewelry from Pomellato, an Italian brand she represents. The versatile star had on pink toned makeup that brought out her blue eyes and full lips as her hair framed her face. Joey added a snap of her husband Piet holding her chin as he gave her a kiss on the cheek. Joey King looked stunning in a black cropped jacket that showed off her abs in night out with her friends and husband In the caption she revealed her cocktail of choice as she wrote, 'Well well well if it isnt little miss "Can I have a Campari spritz please."' The 24-year-old actress was at a dinner celebrating the 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Also pictured with the star was The Kissing Booth co-star Taylor Zakhar Perez who is a 2024 Screen Actors Guild award ambassador. Perez starred alongside Purple Hearts actor Nicholas Galitzine in Red, White & Royal Blue in 2023. Piet, 32, and King said 'I do' in Spain last September after four years of dating. The power couple met on the set of The Act, which Piet co-directed. Hulu's 2019 original The Act starred Joey, then 18, as leading lady Gypsy Rose. The actress told PEOPLE the proposal 'was so spontaneous, and it felt like such a movie.' Joey added a snap of her husband, Stephen Piet, holding her chin as he gave her a kiss on the cheek The Kissing Booth co-star Taylor Zakhar Perez posed for a selfie with the actress King was linked to The Kissing Booth co-star Jacob Elordi back in April 2017 before splitting late 2018. In an interview with GQ, Elordi said he regrets taking part of the films, calling the trilogy 'ridiculous'. King responded telling Variety, 'I think it's unfortunate anyone would feel that way. I had a great time making those movies no matter what anyone says.' Machine Gun Kelly has given some context in his own words as to why he has tattooed the entire upper half of his torso in black ink - sparking concerns from fans. In an emotionally-charged new song titled Don't Let Me Go, released Wednesday, the rapper - whose fiancee Megan Fox showed off a dramatic new look at the People's Choice Awards - hinted that he had suffered a 'breakdown' before getting the inking. 'Lately my thoughts eating me alive / laid in the bed thinking maybe the hate'll finally go away if I'm not alive,' he raps at the start of the song. The performer - real name Colson Baker - then adds: 'Wish I didn't listen just like I wish they would understand me one time / I had a breakdown and tatted my entire body except one line / Everything's just fine.' One concerned fan wrote after the release: 'Literally the most gut wrenching heartfelt song I've heard in a long time.' The rapper appears to be addressing the pressure in his personal life with regards to his relationship with fiancee Megan Fox, battling suicidal thoughts and dealing with the death of his father. Kelly first showed off the inking in an Instagram snap on Tuesday - captioning the snap 'For spiritual purposes only.' The black ink envelops his upper body, while a few of his original tattoos can still be seen through paneled gaps along his arms and within the cross symbol etched across his chest The post comes after Megan recently debuted a new sleeve tattoo while attending a Grammys viewing party. Machine Gun Kelly gave fans a but of a shock when he revealed his new body art on Tuesday In an emotionally-charged new song titled Don't Let Me Go, released Wednesday, the rapper hinted that he had suffered a 'breakdown' before getting the inking One concerned fan wrote after the release: 'Literally the most gut wrenching heartfelt song I've heard in a long time' The Bloody Valentine hitmaker, 33 - whose fiancee Megan Fox showed off a dramatic new look at the People's Choice Awards - took to his Instagram to debut a blackout tattoo covering his entire upper torso; MGK in 2023 MGK also noted that the new ink required '44 needles' in an Instagram Story. His tattoo artist Roxx told TMZ that the rock star engaged in a 'spiritual consultation' before diving into the process. During this session, MGK conveyed to her that his existing tattoos no longer resonated with his current mindset, calling them 'chaotic'. The procedure seemed to be quite a formidable task, and Roxx mentioned that MGK was the 'toughest client she's ever had'. She also said the process started in mid-December, with MGK consistently visiting her private L.A. studio four days a week for thirteen six-hour sessions. The artist still has some work to go on the musician, adding that the project is 'one of the biggest she's done in such a short time.' Roxx took to her own Instagram to share a different photo of her jaw-dropping work on MGK. Echoing her remarks to the outlet, she captioned it, 'Made some art with @machinegunkelly Never met a tougher one.' MGK's tattoo artis Roxx took to her own Instagram to share a different photo of her jaw-dropping work on MGK 'For spiritual purposed only,' he captioned the snap, as he noted that the new ink required '44 needles' in an Instagram Story His tattoo artist Roxx told TMZ that the rock star engaged in a 'spiritual consultation' before diving into the process; pictured December 2022 The artist still has some work to go on the musician, adding that the project is 'one of the biggest she's done in such a short time'; pictured in 2020 MCK replied in the comment section, writing, 'thanks for the joy and the pain.' In June, the musician adorned his already extensively tattooed arm with an additional design. In August 2021, he unveiled a new matching tattoo with Travis Barker coinciding with the announcement of his sixth album, Born with Horn. Before this, the duo collaborated on MGK's pop-punk album, Tickets to My Downfall. Meanwhile, his main squeeze Megan expanded her tattoo collection by getting an entire sleeve on her left arm. The tattoo showcases an expansive, intricate black and gray depiction of a soaring phoenix complemented by blossoming flowers outlined in vibrant red ink. The design spans from her shoulder, extending gracefully just beyond her wrist. The Transformers' star also showcased her dramatic new look at the 49th annual People's Choice Awards. The post comes after Megan debuted a new sleeve tattoo while attending a starry Grammys viewing party on Sunday in Los Angeles The Transformers' star also showcased her dramatic new look at the 49th annual People's Choice Awards Fans quickly commented on Megan's appearance online, with many drawing comparisons between the star and the stop-motion Bride of Chucky character from the Child's Play horror films She arrived to the Barker Hangar in a white strapless dress and sporting pink hair amid plastic surgery rumors that emerged after her appearance at the Super Bowl. Fans quickly commented on Megan's appearance online, with many drawing comparisons between the star and the stop-motion Bride of Chucky character from the Child's Play horror films. The People's Choice appearance comes after Megan was accused of being 'xenophobic' while attempting to defend her shock new appearance, likening herself in one photo to a 'Ukrainian blowup doll.' The Transformers star responded to critics on Wednesday, attributing the alteration of her image to a 'shadowy' photo. However, her rebuttal sparked controversy as she proudly claimed that 'in reality,' she resembles a 'super expensive silicone real sex doll' from Japan. 'Oh my god guys look how different idont look at all,' she began her bizarre post. 'Turns out it was just a shadowy cell phone pic of me looking like a Ukrainian blowup doll. when in REALITY i look like one of those super expensive silicone real sex dolls you can only get in Japan.' The actress initially trended on social media on Tuesday after fans claimed they didn't recognize her in newly-surfaced pictures from her Sunday night celebration at Zouk nightclub in Las Vegas early Monday. Tom Cruise has reportedly split from his Russian socialite girlfriend Elsina Khayrova just days after meeting her kids. The Top Gun actor, 61, and Elsina, 36, who is the ex-wife of oligarch Dimitry Tsvetkov, are first believed to have met last December during a party in Mayfair, where they were seen canoodling. But now reports have emerged they have parted ways, just days after he met her children. Tom is said to have 'cooled off the romance' but wanted to remain friends because they live in the same apartment block in London. 'To end things on a bad note would have been awkward if they'd bumped into each other in the lift,' a source told The Sun. Tom Cruise has reportedly split from his Russian socialite girlfriend Elsina Khayrova just days after meeting her kids The Top Gun actor, 61, and Elsina, 36, are first believed to have met last December during a party in Mayfair, where they were seen canoodling 'There are no hard feelings between them and for Tom, their relationship simply ran its course.' Elsina has a son and daughter from her previous marriage to Russian oligarch and diamond dealer, Dimitry Tsvetkov. Reps for Tom have been contacted by MailOnline for comment. Elsina is the daughter Rinat Khayrova, a leading Russian politician who is worth an estimated 5 billion and is a close ally of President Putin. It comes after just last week it was reported Tom was 'growing closer' to Elsina - and had been regularly spending nights at her swanky London apartment, friends told MailOnline. The pair both attended a glittering gala dinner recently in support of London's Air Ambulance Charity at the five-star Raffles Hotel where Prince William was guest of honour. The pair arrived at the glitzy event separately but friends at the time said they had been spending more and more time together with the Hollywood actor a regular visitor to her lavish 10million apartment in Knightsbridge. A source told MailOnline that the pair had made things official, explaining: 'It's well known within Elsina's circle that she and Tom are now an item. 'They've grown very close over the past few weeks but take a lot of care not to be photographed together because they want to maintain their privacy.' Elsina is the daughter of a prominent Russian MP and ex-wife of a diamond-trading oligarch (pictured in 2018) Elsina was previously married to Dimitry, 43, who claimed that their acrimonious three-year divorce battle cost him an astonishing 150 million The publication reports that Tom 'cooled off the romance' but wanted to remain friends because they live in the same apartment block in London The split comes after just a few weeks ago the pair both attended a glittering gala dinner in support of London's Air Ambulance Charity at the five-star Raffles Hotel where Prince William was guest of honour (Tom seen at the event) They continued: 'Tom has been staying the night at Elsina's apartment, which as you can imagine, is a very beautiful place. They enjoy hanging out together and despite their wealth, do a lot of the things that normal couples do.' The source revealed that the couple had also dined privately at a number of exclusive London restaurants and had also enjoyed strolls together through Hyde Park, while in disguise, which is close to Elsina's home. Elsina posted pictures and a video of herself in a stunning black evening dress while attending the London Air Ambulance Black and White gala which raised 1.2 million. Tom was pictured chatting with Prince William who jokingly recalled his stylish fashion choice from the 2022 premiere of Top Gun: Maverick. The Hollywood actor and Elsina are first believed to have met last December during a party in Mayfair, where they were seen canoodling. One guest claimed: 'They were inseparable, clearly a couple. He seemed to be besotted with her.' Elsina was previously married to Dimitry, 43, who claimed that their acrimonious three-year divorce battle cost him an astonishing 150 million. Speaking to MailOnline after news of his ex-wife's romance with Cruise emerged, he claimed to have spent an astonishing 10million on clothes and another 2million on handbags for her, during their tumultuous 11-year marriage. He said: 'Irrespective of whoever she's with, Tom Cruise or anybody else, they should be aware that she likes the finer things in life and has expensive and luxurious taste. 'Tom should keep his eyes and wallet wide open.' But he added: 'I'm happy for her, I wish her all the best.' Tom was first spotted with her in December and was said to have hired out an entire floor of exclusive Mayfair eatery Novikov for the romantic meal for two. According to The Sun, Tom, who is worth 500M, splashed out on a 500 dinner for of lobster and sushi for the couple. Tom was previously married to Katie Holmes, 45, and the pair share a daughter Suri, 17. A source said: 'To end things on a bad note would have been awkward if they'd bumped into each other in the lift' The source added: 'There are no hard feelings between them and for Tom, their relationship simply ran its course' Tom was first spotted with her in December and was said to have hired out an entire floor of exclusive Mayfair eatery Novikov for the romantic meal for two Tom and Katie's 2million wedding ceremony in November 2006 was held in the 15th-century Odescalchi castle in Italy, with opera singer Andrea Bocelli serenading, the Beckhams and J-Lo among the guests. But rumours 'TomKat' was in trouble surfaced when gossip site TMZ reported the actress was unhappy by Scientology demands, including the suggestion women should give birth silently so as not to alarm the baby. Katie filed for divorce in 2012, landing full custody of daughter Suri. More recently in 2020 he was rumoured to be dating his Mission Impossible co-star, British actress Hayley Atwell, 41, with whom he reportedly 'hit it off from day one'. A source told The Sun at the time: 'They've been meeting up after hours and she's been to his London pad. They get on brilliantly and seem very happy.' Yet they reportedly separated the next year and, last July, Hayley dismissed rumours of their relationship as 'weird', asking: 'Why are things being assumed or projected on to me about my relationship with my work colleague and boss?' She is now engaged to music producer Ned Wolfgang Kelly. Tom was previously married to Katie Holmes, 45, and the pair share a daughter Suri, 17 (seen at their wedding in Italy) Katie and Suri are pictured on an outing this month Carey Mulligan looked elegant as she attended the premiere of her new film Spaceman premiere at 74th Berlinale International Film Festival on Wednesday. The actress, 38, who stars alongside Adam Sandler in the upcoming science fiction, wore a velvet bandeau dress. Smiling for photos, she put on a chic display in the stunning number that featured nude chiffon attached at the back and along the hem. Spaceman is a Netflix adaptation of the novel Spaceman of Bohemia by Czech writer Jaroslav Kalfar and is set for release on February 23 and Netflix on March 1. She was joined by her co-star Adam, 57, who plays lead character Jakub Prochazka in the film. Carey Mulligan, 38, looked elegant as she attended the premiere of her new film Spaceman premiere at 74th Berlinale International Film Festival on Wednesday Adam wore a navy blue suit with a shirt and matching satin tie as he walked the red carpet with Carey. The actor landed the lead role as Jakub Prochazka and Carey stars opposite him as his character's wife Lenka. Spaceman tells the story of a Czech astronaut sent on a lengthy mission into outer space while his life on Earth slowly fades away. Emmy Award winning Chernobyl director Johan Renck will be behind the camera for the movie and filming is due to start in a few weeks. In December, Netflix unveiled the first teaser for Spaceman, in which the Czech astronaut discovers a talking giant alien spider called Hanus that may or may not be imaginary. 'Just like you, I fled my planet,' Hanus - voiced by Paul Dano - tells Jakub in a forest during the 20-second preview. 'Through galaxies, through black holes, through time. And then I found you.' The mysterious ancient creature becomes Prochazka's unlikely companion in the sci-fi film, and the two 'form an intense and emotional bond' over philosophical conversations. The actress, who stars alongside Adam Sandler in the upcoming science fiction, wore a velvet bandeau dress Smiling for photos, she put on a chic display in the stunning number that featured nude chiffon attached at the back and along the hem Spaceman is a Netflix adaptation of the novel Spaceman of Bohemia by Czech writer Jaroslav Kalfar and is set for release on February 23 She was joined by her co-star Adam, 57, who plays lead character Jakub Prochazka in the film Adam wore a navy blue suit with a shirt and matching satin tie as he walked the red carpet with Carey The actor landed the lead role as Jakub Prochazka and Carey stars opposite him as his character's wife Lenka In December, Netflix unveiled the first teaser for Spaceman, in which the Czech astronaut discovers a talking giant alien spider called Hanus that may or may not be imaginary (Adam pictured in the trailer) Adam's wife Jackie wore a chic black gown The couple looked as loved up as ever on the red carpet Adam's orphaned character regrets leaving his devoted wife Lenka (Carey) behind to embark on the dangerous solo mission to Venus, and he clashes with secret Russian rivals. Adam wrapped Johan Renck's $40M-budget adventure drama way back in July 2021 but, due to the impact of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, it won't premiere until March 1 on Netflix. The R-rated film - based on Jaroslav Kalfar's 2017 novel Spaceman of Bohemia - is produced by Channing Tatum and also stars Isabella Rossellini, Kunal Nayyar, Sinead Phelps, John Flanders, and Petr Papanek as the younger Jakub. Spaceman does not appear to be apart of the Mark Twain Prize winner's lucrative $250M deal with Netflix as he already produced and starred in 10 films for them between 2015-2023, which amassed well over 2B views. Johan Renck, Carey and Adam posed for a photo together Adam wrapped Johan Renck's $40M-budget adventure drama way back in July 2021 but, due to the impact of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, it won't premiere until March 1 on Netflix (L-R Michael Parets, Max Richter, Adam, Carey, Paul Dano and Kunal Nayyar) Carey was seen posing for photos with fans Kunal, who plays Peter, a technician in the film, looked smart in a zip up jacket Home Alone star Devin Ratray has pleaded guilty to two counts of domestic violence. As a result, the 47-year-old actor who famously played Buzz in Home Alone has avoided jail time, resolving his years-long case in Oklahoma. According to TMZ, he was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete a Batterers Intervention Program and undergo a drug/alcohol assessment. Additionally, he must cover court expenses and maintain zero contact with the victim, his ex-girlfriend. Ratray appeared in court via a video link along with his lawyer. Home Alone star Devin Ratray has pleaded guilty to two counts of domestic violence . As a result, the 47-year-old actor who famously played Buzz in Home Alone has avoided jail time, resolving his years-long case in Oklahoma (pictured in 2019) The 47-year-old actor who famously played Buzz in Home Alone was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete a Batterers Intervention Program and undergo a drug/ alcohol assessment, per TMZ It comes after last month the star was hospitalized and in critical condition. He has since been discharged and was reportedly 'back home resting on doctor's orders.' In December 2021, he was arrested on domestic violence charges after he allegedly strangled his girlfriend in an Oklahoma hotel room. He reportedly had gotten angry with his partner while the two were drinking at a bar after she didn't charge two female fans for his autograph. After they returned to their hotel room at Hyatt Place Oklahoma City, Ratray allegedly pushed her onto the bed before putting one hand on her throat and the other on her mouth. 'The victim had trouble breathing while she was being strangled and while the defendants hand was over her mouth,' according to an affidavit. Ratray also allegedly told her, 'This is how you die,' as he continued to choke her. The girlfriend then bit Ratray's hand as she attempted to scream for help. He stopped choking her but allegedly began violently punching her afterward. Additionally, he must cover court expenses and maintain zero contact with the victim, his ex-girlfriend. Ratray appeared in court via a video link along with his lawyer She managed to break free from Ratray's grasp and ran out of the room. Ratray allegedly punched her against a desk when she returned to the room to collect her belongings. The victim was found with multiple injuries including bruising under her left eye, marks under her right eye, marks above the left side of her lip, a bruise on her chest and a sore arm, according to KFOR. The pair broke up following the violent fight. At the time, a police source revealed that Ratray 'turned himself in and was processed through and bonded out,' according to Fox News. He was released from custody after posting a $25,000 bond and denied the allegations. In December 2021, he was arrested on domestic violence charges after he allegedly strangled his girlfriend in an Oklahoma hotel room Last year, news broke that he was also being investigated by New York authorities over allegations that he raped a woman in New York in 2017. After hearing about the assault case, Lisa Smith contacted prosecutors about a police report she had filed in 2017 accusing that actor of raping her. She told CNN that she wanted to know why the case hadnt been pursued and was informed that authorities thought she wanted to remain anonymous and didnt want to press charges. Smith claims that she was friends with the actor for around 15 years before the alleged assault, adding that she met her brother and Ratray along with another friend for a drink in New York directly before the assault. A terrifying new escape room has launched in Sydney to celebrate the launch of The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live on Stan. The bone-chilling experience has officially opened at Strike Bowling Darling Harbour, and will test even the most seasoned of escape room fans with its tricky clues and high-tech puzzles. Players are challenged to join the search to reunite the series' protagonists Rick Grimes and Michonne in just 50 minutes before they too become the walking dead. The room boasts an array of interactive challenges themed around The Walking Dead universe, and players must use both their brains and bodies to retrace Rick's steps using items recovered from his backpack. It even features a real life 'zombie' whose job is to make every puzzle more difficult. The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live premieres February 26 only on Stan in Australia. A terrifying new escape room has launched in Sydney to celebrate the launch of The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live on Stan The escape room is open from February 21 to 25, and fans can head to Strike Bowling with the limited discount code TWDonStan to secure their free spot. From the phenomenon that made American history as the highest rated TV series ever, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live follows an epic love story of two characters battling against the odds. A trailer for The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live features Andrew Lincoln's Rick Grimes and Danai Gurira's Michonne battling hordes of zombies, as the lovers maintain hope for a soon-to-come reunion. The bone-chilling experience has officially opened at Strike Bowling Darling Harbour, and will test even the most seasoned of escape room fans with its tricky clues and high-tech puzzles Players are challenged to join the search to reunite the series' protagonists Rick Grimes (pictured) and Michonne in just 50 minutes before they too become the walking dead The room boasts an array of interactive challenges themed around The Walking Dead universe, and players must use both their brains and bodies to retrace Rick's steps using items recovered from his backpack It even features a real life 'zombie' whose job is to make every puzzle more difficult Rick, who has been held captive for over a decade by the Civic Republic Military (CRM), a militarised survival group, says 'I'm getting home' in a voiceover at the beginning of the trailer, as Michonne, on a mission to rescue him, can be heard saying, 'I have to find him'. The trailer also shows a glimpse at Terry O'Quinn's character, Major General Beale, who heads the CRM and informs Rick that if he aligns with his vision, 'everything will change.' Jadis (Pollyanna McIntosh) also makes a comeback after her last appearance in The Walking Dead: World Beyond season 2. His floppy hair, subtle stubble and chiselled good looks made him an instant pin-up in the 1990s. Now Brad Pitt could have an imitator on his hands one who was just a baby in the Hollywood heart-throb's heyday. English actor Leo Woodall, 27, has been compared to Pitt after winning a legion of fans playing charming Dexter Mayhew in Netflix smash-hit One Day. And the star has appeared to embrace the comparison. He has opted for a similar shave and copied the Fight Club actor's 90s style by wearing stark white shirts and smart overcoats. He has also gelled back his long hair at a number of red carpet appearances, just as 60-year-old Pitt used to do. English actor Leo Woodall , 27, has been compared to Brad Pitt after winning a legion of fans playing charming Dexter Mayhew in Netflix smash-hit One Day Brad Pitt could have an imitator on his hands one who was just a baby in the Hollywood heart-throb's heyday Woodall appears opposite This Is Going To Hurt star Ambika Mod, 28, in One Day in his first lead role Woodall has also gelled back his long hair at a number of red carpet appearances, just as 60-year-old Pitt used to do But Woodall has recently risked breaking the hearts of many dedicated followers after he finally confirmed his relationship with his longtime girlfriend. Actress Meghann Fahy, 33, who was his co-star in HBO drama The White Lotus, posted a picture of the pair on Instagram with their arms around each other, captioned with a loveheart, on Tuesday. The pair met in Sicily in 2022 during filming for the second series of the award-winning show, which portrays the scandals and secrets of the guests at a luxury resort. Hammersmith-born Woodall played Essex 'bad boy' Jack in his break-out role, while Massachusetts native Ms Fahy starred as Daphne, a woman struggling with a wealthy but unhappy marriage. Rumours circulated last year that the pair were dating after Woodall shared an intimate selfie with Ms Fahy on Instagram. Despite being pictured together at various events and being spotted kissing in New York in November they have until now declined to publicly acknowledge their relationship. Actress Meghann Fahy, 33, who was his co-star in HBO drama The White Lotus. The pair met on set while filming the second season of the hit series in Sicily, Italy (seen on Jan 15 2024) Ms Mod and Woodall have formed a 'close bond' and friendship since making the hit series Woodall appears opposite This Is Going To Hurt star Ambika Mod, 28, in One Day in his first lead role. Based on the 2009 bestselling novel by David Nicholls which had already been adapted into a 2011 film starring Anne Hathaway the 14-episode series has racked up 15million streams worldwide since its February 8 debut. Each installment sees the pair meet on July 15 each year, starting with their graduation in Edinburgh in 1988. Ms Mod and Woodall have formed a 'close bond' and friendship since making the hit series. We're all guilty of it. You're standing at a party or work event and, instead of making an effort to speak to your peers, you get out your phone and start scrolling. It is a phenomenon that has been coined 'phubbing' by social media users and researchers - a combination of phone and snubbing. Now, a study has shed light on the type of people who are most likely to engage in this subtle anti-social behavior. Research involving 461 20-somethings by social scientists at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik in Lebanon found those least likely to 'phub' are married people, introverts and highly sensitive people. Those prone to boredom and people who feel lonely were also guilty of dabbling in the behavior more often. People who are married are far less likely to spend significant amounts of time on their phone as they typically don't feel as lonely as singletons, a new study suggests. The study authors note that, as phubbing is known to perpetuate loneliness, clinicians should identify those at risk and attempt to 'moderate' the behavior. 'While dealing with psychiatric patients, healthcare professionals might be able to implement appropriate smartphone use habits, as this would help patients improve their social relationships,' the authors wrote. The study, published in the journal Healthcare, involved nearly 500 18-29 year-olds, 71 percent of who were female. The vast majority - 91 percent - were single. Participants were asked to complete four tests - a mixture of questionnaires and psychometric tests - to measure a variety of personality traits, characteristics as well as propensity for boredom and loneliness. One of the surveys measured phubbing behavior by asking a range of questions about how the respondent would act in certain social situations, including the amount of time they're likely to spend on their phone. They also had to say to what extend they agreed with certain statements such as, 'I feel anxious if my phone is not nearby.' Those with smartphone addiction are more likely to engage in 'phubbing' - which can impact social relationships, experts warn. The results highlighted a number of personality types that are more suseptible to 'phubbing', as well as those who are married. As for why this might be, the researchers suggested the explanation may lie in the fact married people are less lonely - and loneliness was shown to be a risk factor for phubbing. They wrote: 'While no previous literature has discussed this issue, it has been shown that married couples experience less loneliness and less boredom, as they are distracted by the responsibilities of being married and have probably filled the gap of loneliness by marriage.' Biggest ever study on smartphone addiction reveals the exact group that is most at risk Researchers surveyed over 50,000 people across the world to understand just how many people are at risk of being addicted to their phone. Advertisement 'Phubbing' was also suggested to be a method of occupying bored minds and making introverts - who typically don't enjoy group situations - feel less isolated. In their report, the researchers also noted the well-evidenced link between problematic smartphone use (or addiction) and 'phubbing' - warning that the latter may be a sign of an unhealthy relationship with devices. 'This issue [smartphone addiction] is correlated to negative emotionality, impulsivity, boredom proneness, dysregulated emotions, and sleep impairment,' the authors wrote. A 2023 Canadian study suggested that some one in three people around the world are suffering smartphone addiction. The problem, which involves proritizing phone use above other tasks and important interactions, has been linked to damaging changes in brain function, sleep disorders and fatigue. Experts recommend spending at least three to four hours of the day completely detatched from screens - including phones. We must strive to preserve languages, as the disappearance of a language is not merely the loss of words but the erosion of culture and tradition International Mother Language Day is celebrated on 21st February, under the auspices of UNESCO. This international observance was first proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1999 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity. It started being observed annually in 2000. Each year they come up with a theme. The theme for the International Mother Language 2024 is Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational learning. The date holds historical significance as it commemorates the sacrifices made by students of East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) during the Language Movement of 1952, who bravely protested for the recognition of their mother tongue, Bengali, as one of the official languages of Pakistan. 54.1% of the population of the then East Pakistan spoke Bengali. Apart from the identity of Islam, there were many linguistic, cultural, ethnic and geographical contradictions between West Pakistan and East Pakistan. Amidst this cultural clash, the rulers of Islamabad declared Urdu as the official language, totally neglecting the Bengali language which the population held close to their hearts. Thousands of students gathered in Dhaka, the capital of East Bengal, and launched an agitation. West Pakistan was trying to brutally suppress the protests by students at Dhaka University and Dhaka Medical College. Student leaders Abdul Salman, Rafiquddin Ahmed, Abdul Balkhad and Abdul Jabbar were also martyred in the military operation which claimed several lives. This language movement, which took place on 21st February 1952, finally succeeded and Bengali along with Urdu became the mother tongue of undivided Pakistan. Mother language is not just a means of communication; it is the cradle of our cultural identity, the keeper of our heritage, and the bridge that connects us to the wisdom of generations past. However, today, many languages are disappearing with time. It is estimated that every two weeks a language disappears in the world. About 43 per cent of spoken languages may disappear in the future. The day, organised by UNESCO, is especially meant to emphasise the need to preserve languages. There are about 6000 languages in the world, both with script and without script. Chinese or Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in the world, with 16 per cent of the worlds population using it as their mother tongue. English and Hindi occupy the second and third positions respectively. People who speak multiple languages are called polyglots. Proficiency in as many languages as possible is considered to be a great skill in the present globalised society. Former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, who was fluent in 17 languages, is a good example of a polyglot. More than 3000 languages are endangered. After 1950 alone, 230 languages that existed in the world disappeared from the face of the earth. Under the leadership of Irina Bokova, the former Director-General of UNESCO, several projects had been formulated for the conservation of endangered languages. One of them is the International Mother Language Institute established in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. With the aid of the United Nations, several schemes have been put together for the protection of the mother tongue. 2008 was celebrated as the International Year of Languages and efforts are being made to preserve the vanishing languages. The fourth item in the UN-led Millennium Development Goal is to provide better and more inclusive education through the mother language. According to UN estimates, half of the approximately 7000 languages spoken in the world are not guaranteed to last for another generation. Of these 96 percent of the languages are currently used by only 4 percent of the worlds population. Linguists have documented that among some societies in Asia and Africa, there are languages that are spoken only by women. The Dakhini language, which is still popular in Gulbarga in Karnataka and Solapur in Maharashtra, is one such language. According to the 2011 language census, the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution contains 22 languages, including 121 mother tongues. 52.8 crore individuals, i.e. 43.6% of the population, speak Hindi. Bengali is the mother tongue of the next largest number of people8%. Out of the 2.6 lakh English speakers (who have their mother tongue as English) more than one lakh are in Maharashtra. As a second language, English is preferred over Hindi in the North-Eastern parts. In 2011, of the 17.6 lakh people whose mother tongue was Manipur, 4.8 lahks declared English as their second language. While English, along with Hindi, is one of the two official languages of the Central Government, it is not among the 22 languages in the Eighth Schedule; it is one of the 99 languages that are not scheduled. In terms of mother tongue, the number of English speakers in India in 2011 was just 2.6 lakh a small fraction of the 121 crore people estimated in that census. In Fiji, Hindi is the official language spoken by 44 per cent of the population. In percentage terms, Fiji has more Hindi speakers than India. In India, a land of linguistic diversity, apart from Hindi and English, 22 regional languages also occupy official status through the Eighth Schedules of the Constitution. However, Sanskrit, the heritage language, can be seen fading in the society. Less than 15,000 people use Sanskrit as a spoken language. While the central and state Governments have launched several schemes to promote Sanskrit, there is only one daily newspaper in the world in this language which is Sudharma. Uttarakhand is the only Indian state to have included Sanskrit in its official languages. According to the 1961 census, there were 1,652 languages in India classified as 'mother tongue'. However, according to the 2011 census report, the number of mother tongues in India is 234. More than 800 mother tongues have disappeared in the last fifty years. Nihali is still considered the mother tongue of more than 15,000 people in about 15 villages in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, similarly around 1,000 Portuguese-speaking people in a village in Maharashtra. Arunachal Pradesh, where the population is much smaller, yet has the highest level of linguistic diversity. The multilingual tribes and regions are the identity of Indian culture. In India, 220 languages have recently become extinct due to a lack of adequate care. As many as 197 Indian languages have been listed by UNESCO among the most likely to be alienated. According to the 2011 census, 96.71 per cent of the population speaks 21 languages recognised by the Constitution of India. English, Spanish and French are languages that have not developed their own script. These languages borrowed from the Latin script for writing. Hindi is a language which does not have its own script. Devanagari is the script used by Hindi today. Arabic is a language that is precisely convinced that language is a culture. Arabic is the spoken language of about 422 million people and the mother tongue of 24 countries in the world and is a perfect example of how one of the oldest languages developed strongly and has become one of the leading modern languages. Amar Sonar Bangla, the national anthem of independent Bangladesh, was composed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1905 in the backdrop of the first partition of Bengal. Ananda Samarakoon, a disciple of Rabindranath of Visva-Bharati, composed the national anthem Namo Namo Matha of Sri Lanka in Sinhalese. Ten decades before the Sri Lankan civil war that ended in 2009, Tamil, along with Sinhalese, was recognised as the official language of Sri Lanka. The Universal Declaration of Linguistic Rights was held in Barcelona in 1996, but hundreds of languages are still fading away from time to time. It is doubtful whether writing will have any significance fifty years from now. The technology to turn sound into text is already in vogue. Of the 6,000 languages in use in the world, at least 4,000 are likely to be extinct. According to language researchers, 90 per cent of the languages currently in use will disappear from the earth's surface by 2050. Less than 10,000 people use one-third of the world's existing languages. According to the Central Government, more than 200 Indian languages have disappeared since 1961. Most of these are languages used by tribals, including Adivasi communities. After the 1961 census, the Government decided to do away with the national status of languages used by less than 10,000 people. We must recognise that the disappearance of a language is not merely the loss of words but the erosion of culture and tradition. As put by Noam Chomsky A language is not just words. It's a culture, a tradition, a unification of a community, a whole history that creates what a community is. It's all embodied in a language. Allowing languages to become extinct is a sin being committed to our ancestors and future generations. (The writer is an associate professor, views are personal) Legal luminary Fali S Nariman passed away here on Wednesday at the age of 95. He was suffering from multiple ailments, including cardiac issues. Tributes poured in for him from across the country as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla condoled the death of the veteran advocate, often referred to as the Bhishma Pitamah of the Indian judiciary. Born on January 10, 1929, Nariman was enrolled as an advocate at the Bombay High Court in November 1950 and was designated a senior advocate in 1961. He practised law for more than 70 years, initially in the Bombay High Court and since 1972 in the Supreme Court. Nariman is survived by his son and former Supreme Court judge Rohinton Nariman, daughter Anaheeta and daughter-in-law Sanaya. His wife Bapsi Nariman died in 2020. Nariman was appointed as the additional solicitor general of India in May 1972. He resigned from the post a day after the imposition of Emergency on June 26, 1975. In his long and illustrious legal career, Nariman argued in several landmark cases, including the Bhopal gas tragedy case, TMA Pai case, Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case, and the famous case of the National Judicial Appointments Commission, which was struck down by the Supreme Court. Nariman authored books, including Before the Memory Fades, The State of the Nation, Indias Legal System: Can it be Saved? and God Save the Honble Supreme Court. He received the Padma Bhushan in January 1991 and in 2007, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan. Nariman was also nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha in November 1999. His son, Rohinton Nariman, was a judge of the Supreme Court. Vice President Dhankhar described Nariman as a towering figure in the Indian legal system. Deeply saddened by his demise. My heartfelt condolences to his family members and the legal fraternity on this unbridgeable loss. His legacy and contribution will always serve as a guiding light to the nation at large, Dhankhar said. Meghwal recalled that Nariman was awarded the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan, and said his unwavering commitment towards civil liberties and principles was strong and commendable. In a post on X, Speaker Birla said Narimans contributions to the Indian legal system are immeasurable. May his legacy continue to inspire generations on the path of making justice accessible to all, he wrote. Offering his condolences, Modi said Nariman had devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. In a post on X, Modi said, He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace. Home Minister Amit Shah said Nariman had served as the guiding light for the countrys judicial system. A trailblazing luminary, Nariman Jis profound knowledge of the law and keen intellect served as the guiding light for our judicial system. With his passing, a powerful voice of law fell silent today, Shah wrote on X. Congress leader Rahul said Narimans contributions have not only shaped landmark cases but also inspired generations of jurists to uphold the sanctity of the Constitution and civil liberties. The veteran lawyers demise leaves a profound void in the legal community, he added. The Delhi Chalo protest march by farmers from Punjab has been suspended for two days after a protester was killed and about 12 police personnel were injured in clashes at Khanauri, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. We will hold discussions regarding the incident that occurred in Khanauri. Our march towards Delhi will be on hold for two days. We will provide further clarification on our future actions later, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, head of the Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, stated at a press conference. The farmers announcement comes after the Centre appealed to them for another round of discussions. This marks the second time the farmers march has been put on hold. Previously, it was halted before the fourth round of talks between the farmers and the Central Government. Earlier, a 21-year-old farmer was killed, and several others were injured following a clash between security personnel and protesting farmers at Khanauri on the Punjab-Haryana border. A farmers leader said the victim has been identified as Shubh Karan Singh, a resident of Baloke village in Punjabs Bathinda district. This incident marks the first casualty of the second round of farmers protests, known as the Delhi Chalo March, which began on February 13. The Haryana Police has alleged that the farmer protesters surrounded the police from all sides by pouring chili powder in the stubble, and attacked the policemen using sticks, maces, and stone pelting at the Khanauri border. Around 12 policemen were seriously injured. The police appealed to the protesters for peace. Meanwhile, it has denied that any farmer has died yet in the clash on the Shambhu border, contrary to claims made on various platforms, as the farmers protesting against the Centre intensify their defense against the Haryana Police. This is just a rumour. Two policemen and one protester received injuries on the Data Singh-Khanauri border and are under treatment, the Haryana Police posted on X. Farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa identified the victim as Shubh Karan Singh (21), who died at Khanauri on the Sangrur-Jind border. Singh was a resident of Baloke village in Punjabs Bathinda district, he said. Patiala-based Rajindra Hospitals medical superintendent HS Rekhi also confirmed to reporters that three people, one of them deceased, were brought to the hospital from the Khanauri border point. He (Singh) had an injury to his head, Rekhi said, adding that the condition of the other two is stable. The Haryana Police has claimed that 12 police personnel have been injured in the attack by farmers at the Data Singh-Khanauri border. Farmers in Khanauri, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border, claimed that Haryana Police personnel fired rubber bullets, as well as tear gas shells, to disperse protesters. Tear gas shells were fired to disperse farmers from Punjab at Shambhu and Khanauri border points as they attempted to move towards barricades hindering their protest march to Delhi. Amid renewed outrage by protesting farmers over a massive tussle between farmers and Haryana Police at Shambhu and Khanauri borders, Union Minister Arjun Munda, who was part of previous rounds of talks with the farmers, once again offered to hold negotiations with them to diffuse the simmering tension across the three states. As protesting farmers moved forward, Haryana police on Wednesday fired tear gas shells at them on the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu and Khanauri borders as they tried to advance towards barricades stalling their protest march to Delhi. The farmers, who have been protesting over their Minimum Support Price (MSP) demand against the government, are equipped with gas masks, bulldozers, and other heavy machinery to confront the police. Meanwhile, daily commuters between Delhi-Noida, Delhi-Gurugram, and Delhi-Ballabhgarh witnessed massive traffic jams due to blockades, barriers, and heavy security arrangements set up at border points by Delhi police, along with their counterparts in Noida and Gurugram, to prevent farmers from entering the national capital. According to reports prepared by Central security agencies, nearly 14,000 people have been allowed to gather at the Shambhu barrier on Rajpura-Ambala Road, with nearly 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses, and other small vehicles. Similarly, Punjab has permitted a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier. After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble burning issue, and FIR registration during the 2020-21 protest in the fifth round. I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. We must maintain peace, Munda wrote on X in Hindi. However, there is no consensus among the farmer leaders on holding a meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda. While some are in favor of it, others argue that nothing substantial has come out of the previous meetings, so why hold another one? Scores of farmers resumed their agitation two days after the fourth round of talks with the government over their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver, failed. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were seen at the protest sites, with police cautioning that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse some farmers who started moving towards the multiple layers of barricades at the Shambhu border point near Ambala in Haryana. By mid-afternoon, there had been at least three rounds of tear gas shelling. A drone was also deployed by security personnel at Shambhu to drop tear gas shells. In Khanauri too, police fired tear gas shells to disperse farmers as they moved towards the barricades. Following the tear gas shelling, a chaotic situation was witnessed at the protest sites with the farmers running for cover as the smoke enveloped the area. Many protesting farmers were seen wearing masks and glasses to protect themselves from the gas. Drones are also being used by police to keep an eye on the activities of the farmers on the other side of the barricades. The farmer leaders have asked the protesters to maintain calm and peace. Volunteers deputed by the farmer leaders at the protest sites have been asking young farmers not to move ahead. Amid widespread complaints of sexual offences against women allegedly committed by members of the ruling Trinamool Congress in Sandeshkhali, the BJP has intensified its campaign efforts in West Bengal even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged unwavering support to the women of Sandeshkhali. Modis visit to West Bengal to address an all-women rally on March 7 is poised to deliver a resounding response to the TMC in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, effectively addressing the concerns raised by the victims in Bengal. The BJP has been striving to gain ground in West Bengal and managed to secure its symbol on 18 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the 2019 general elections, while holding 70 legislators in the 294-member Assembly. However, in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had only two MPs, but in 2024, with the clarion call of securing 370 plus seats, the party hopes to win over 25 seats in the State. The Opposition bloc of the Congress, the TMC, and Left parties has nearly disintegrated in Bengal. The BJP on Wednesday accused the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government of exceeding the erstwhile CPI(M) administration in subjecting the people of West Bengal to atrocities. Raising the issue of alleged sexual harassment of women in Sandeshkhali, senior BJP leader and former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad criticised the Congress and other constituents of the Opposition INDIA bloc, questioning their silence on the matter. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that Sandeshkhali would be the downfall of his Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee and her party. West Bengal DGP Rajeev Kumar visited Sandeshkhali on Wednesday afternoon to assess the situation in the area, which has been marked by protests following allegations of sexual abuse of women by TMC leaders. In his first visit to the area since the protests began, Kumar, accompanied by senior police officers, including ADG South Bengal Supratim Sarkar, went to Sandeshkhali police station and held meetings there, according to a police source. Meanwhile, a row has erupted after Sikh IPS officer Jaspreet Singh retaliated after being called Khalistani while he was speaking to a group of protesting State BJP leaders and workers led by Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday. Singh is part of a special team deployed by the West Bengal Police to maintain law and order and investigate complaints by villagers in Sandeshkhali. While the senior police officer has maintained that he will lodge a case, the BJP has dismissed the claim and sought to prove when the Khalistani slur was used against the officer on duty. On the other hand, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has opened the doors of the Raj Bhavan for the victimised women of the trouble-torn Sandeshkhali region who feel unsafe in their homes. The Sandeshkhali issue is becoming very serious. The blatant assault, humiliating treatment, and sexual assault on women are a shame on our society and democracy, Ravi Shankar Prasad said at a press conference at the BJP headquarters in the national capital. The BJP leader also criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for defending such incidents in the State, questioning her conscience and that of other Opposition parties. When Mamata Banerjee struggled (in the past) against the CPI(M)s atrocities and sat on an indefinite agitation against it, we all became her fans and lauded her struggle. Today, her atrocity and police repression have surpassed that of the (then) CPI(M) rule, he charged. Its a shame. Where is her conscience? Prasad asked, adding, Mamata ji, you will have to give a reply. Mamata ji, you will have to pay for it. People will give a political reply to you. Sources within the BJP have indicated that the Prime Minister is planning to address a womens rally in Barasat, West Bengal, on March 7, a day before International Womens Day. The riverine Sandeshkhali area, situated on the borders of the Sunderbans about 100 kilometres from Kolkata, has been witnessing protests after local women accused absconding Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shajahan and his supporters of land grab and sexual assault under coercion. West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said the Prime Minister is likely to visit Barasat on March 7 to address a womens rally. Majumdar had to be hospitalised with injuries last week as BJP workers clashed with police personnel after being stopped from going to Sandeshkhali. A senior BJP leader said it is very likely that the visit by the Prime Minister will occur in early March, before the announcement of General Elections, as the model code of conduct will be enforced. PM Modi will visit West Bengal shortly as several projects are lined up. Most importantly, the PM is concerned about the incident in Sandeshkhali, and the party is planning a first-ever all-women rally as the NDA government has been specifically working for the welfare of women and related schemes. The final tour program will be known shortly, said the party leader. While Sheikh has been missing since January 5, when a mob attacked Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers during a raid at his residence in connection with an alleged ration scam, TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has blamed the BJP for orchestrating an incident in the area along with the ED and the media. Senior BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya, who was the BJP incharge of West Bengal, claimed a strong nexus exists among goons, police, and politicians in West Bengal. In a major drug haul, police have seized around 900 kg of Mephedrone, commonly called Meow Meow", from two locations in south Delhi, officials said on Wednesday, putting the total value of the seizure at more than Rs 2,000 crore. The seizure was made following raids by officials of Pune and Delhi police forces on Tuesday in Kotla Mubarakpur and Hauz Khas. This drug seizure by the Pune police is the largest ever in Maharashtra and one of the biggest in the country. The bust in Delhi was based on information from the Pune Police, which is probing a case registered by it under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, they said. Meow Meow, scientifically termed as Mephedrone, is a potent synthetic stimulant often associated with party culture due to its euphoric effects. Its consumption poses significant health risks and can lead to addiction and adverse mental health outcomes. Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant often associated with the "rave party culture" for its euphoric effects, a senior police officer. Over the last two days raids were conducted in Pune and in the national capital, the officials said and added that a total of 1,100 kg of Mephedrone worth Rs 2,500 crore in the international market was seized from the two cities. "On Tuesday, a team of the Pune Police's Crime Branch requested for a joint raid in connection with the case registered under the NDPS Act in Pune. It had already arrested three people and seized Mephedrone," the officer said. The officer said based on information from those arrested, a raid was conducted at Kotla Mubarakpur in Delhi. Around 300 kg of Mephedrone was seized and two people arrested. "On further interrogation, around 600 kg of Mephadrone was seized recovered from a rented shop in Masjid Moth in Hauz Khas. The room and the shop were recently taken on rent," the officer said. According to Pune police commissioner Amitesh Kumar 700 kg of mephedrone was discovered in various locations in Pune district, including the Kurkumbh MIDC area. This seizure was made following the arrest and subsequent interrogation of the three individuals on Sunday. Acting on the information provided by the accused, the Pune police seized an additional 400kg of mephedrone from two godown-like structures in South Delhi. The police are actively probing the supply chain and connections involved in this drug racket. Commuters taking the border routes of Delhi-Noida, Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Ballabhgarh witnessed massive traffic jams on Wednesday due to massive security arrangements and barricades, rod blockades put up at different entry points by the Delhi police to stop the farmers from entering the national capital after protesting farmers announced to continue their 'Delhi Chalo' agitation. Huge traffic and congestion were reported at the three Inter State Bus Terminals- Kashmeri Gate ISBT, Anand Vihar and Sarai Kale Khan. The move led to traffic chaos at places like Rajokri border, Sarhol border, Delhi-Gurugram Highway (NH-48) and Delhi-Bahadurgarh Highway during the peak hours in morning and evening. Several videos were shared online of hundreds of vehicles stuck in traffic jam at Delhi-Gurugram and Delhi-Bahadurgarh roads due to the restriction of movement. Multi-layered barricades have been put up at several locations. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police has beefed up security in the national capital on Wednesday and directed its personnel to ensure strict vigil at Tikri, Singhu and Ghazipur borders after the protesting farmers announced to continue their 'Delhi Chalo' agitation. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Jimmy Chiram said there was sufficient deployment of the force besides paramilitary personnel at the Delhi-Haryana borders. "Our motive is not to disturb traffic. Our main motive is to ensure safety, security and law and order. Deployed teams are checking all the vehicles to ensure that farmers do not enter the national capital," said the DCP. The Delhi Police became alert again in view of the farmers' protest in Manesar on Tuesday and their proposed march to Delhi. Police checked the ID cards of the drivers and then only allowed them to go further. That, and closing of the service lanes near Rajokri, caused a glut of vehicles on the expressway. The barricades were later removed by the Gurugram and Delhi Police and the normal run of the traffic restored. . "The entire team of traffic police managed the traffic within time. After some time the traffic was smooth there," Traffic Inspector Satish Kumar said. The Gurugram Traffic Police had earlier alerted travellers about the impending jam in a post on X. The two border points of Delhi and Haryana - Tikri and Singhu - are sealed with the heavy deployment of police personnel and paramilitary forces and multi-layered barricades of concrete and iron nails. Two lanes of the Ghazipur border have also been shut with multi-layer barricades and deployment of police personnel. Two lanes of the Ghazipur border have also been shut, expected to cause heavy traffic in the area. The border can also be shut down if need be, Delhi Police said. Another officer said the Delhi Police was prepared to stop the farmers at the Delhi borders. Security personnel have been directed to not allow even a single protester or vehicle to enter Delhi, he said, adding that mock security drills were conducted. The Delhi Police said earlier that there is a heavy deployment of security personnel and multi-layered barricading, iron nails and concrete barriers in place at these borders. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police has issued an advisory that it will be implementing for five days a plan on a trial basis to avoid frequent traffic jams at the Bagga roundabout. The trial will be started from Thursday, it said. According to the advisory issued on Wednesday, the Faiz Road will be open for one-way traffic from the Bagga roundabout towards Rani Jhansi Road. During the trial period, the vehicles going towards Rani Jhansi Road via the roundabout will take the Faiz Road. Traffic will be prohibited in the opposite carriage way, it said. The traffic coming on the Faiz Road from the Bagga roundabout will be allowed to take only left turn at the Kalka Das chowk towards Desh Bandhu Gupta Road. At this point, the right turn towards Desh Bandhu Gupta Road will be prohibited. The traffic going straight towards Rani Jhansi Road via 'Kalka Das Chowk' will be allowed, it stated. The traffic coming on Desh Bandhu Gupta Road from Karol Bagh side will be allowed only to move straight up to the Rani Jhansi Road. This traffic will not be allowed to take the right turn towards the Faiz Road, it said. The traffic coming from Paharganj railway station side will be allowed to move straight and will not be allowed to take left turn towards the Faiz Road, the advisory said. The traffic coming on the New Rohtak Road from the 'Liberty Cinema' side will be allowed only up to the T-Point Rohtak Road and will also be allowed to take left turn to reach the Rani Jhansi Flyover. At this point, the traffic will not be allowed to take night turn towards the Faiz Road, it stated. The traffic coming from the T-Point Rohtak Road on the New Rohtak Road will be allowed only to move straight and not to take left or right turn on the Faiz Road, the advisory said, adding that the commuters are advised to follow the directions of the traffic police personnel posted in the area to avoid inconvenience. The Bharatiya Janata Party State president Mahendra Bhatt has been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Uttarakhand. Greeted enthusiastically by party workers and leaders at the partys State office on Tuesday, Bhatt exhorted the party members to not rest for the next 100 days as said by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Earlier, Bhatt along with senior office bearers of the BJP went to the Vidhan Sabha to receive the certificate of election from the returning officer. He was accompanied by party workers in a procession first to the Statehood martyrs memorial and then to the partys State office. Speaking at the programme held at the party office, Bhatt said that when he had started his social and political life, he had never imagined he would get any position and had focused only on working in the party organisation. It is due to the affection of lakhs of party workers that the party leadership has put its trust in me. I thank the party leadership and assure you that I will strive to meet all your expectations. Having reached the Rajya Sabha, I will work to raise the issues of the public more strongly, he said. Bhatt exhorted the party workers to follow PM Modis resolve of taking no rest for the next 100 days. The BJP workers have to focus on ensuring a thumping victory in all the five Lok Sabha seats in Uttarakhand. Stating that the nation and State are moving forward under PM Modi and chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami respectively, he exhorted the party workers to strengthen them further. Felicitating him on behalf of the party workers, Haridwar MP and former chief minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said that there is considerable enthusiasm among the party workers. All have seen Bhatt work for the organisation sincerely from the booth level to the post of the partys State president. Building the organisation in difficult situations, sincere participation in the Statehood movement and Ram Mandir movement and ensuring a victory in all elections while heading the BJP in Uttarakhand make Bhatt very special, Nishank said. Later in the evening, Bhatt met Dhami at the CMs official residence. Dhami said that Bhatts presence in the Rajya Sabha will further boost the development works in the State. Leader of the opposition in the Delhi Legislative Assembly Ramvir Singh Bidhuri on Wednesday here criticized the Aam Aadmi Party(AAP) over its conduct in the Chandigarh mayoral election case and said the party, which claims to uphold democracy, should take a moment to look into its own actions. He said in the elections for the standing committee members in the Delhi Municipal Corporation, the AAP adopted authoritarian and unconstitutional practices, and after court orders, the election of three BJP members was declared valid. Bidhuri said while according to the rules, the Chandigarh mayoral case cannot be discussed in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, it was brought up in the Assembly by breaking the rules, although this matter does not fall within the jurisdiction of the Assembly. Therefore, Bidhuri left the Assembly when this matter was raised. Bidhudi recalled that last year, on February 24, when elections were underway for the standing committee of the Delhi Municipal Corporation, AAP's mayor Shaili Oberoi not only declared valid votes invalid but also announced to conduct the standing committee elections again. Surprisingly, for conducting these elections, the Election Commission had sent its representatives, but the AAP was not even ready to heed the officials of the Election Commission. When the BJP took this matter to the Delhi High Court, in May, the High Court not only declared the invalid votes as valid but also invalidated the decision to conduct the elections again by the Mayor. Bidhuri said the AAP is currently making noise, but in reality, it does not believe in democracy. While we respect the Supreme Court's decision in the Chandigarh mayoral election case, the other aspect of the picture is that the AAP does not have a majority in the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. In the council of 35 members, the AAP has only 10 members, while the BJP has 18 members. He said the murder of democracy by the AAP is not an isolated incident. By suppressing the voice of the opposition in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, it continuously mocks democracy. Taking a dig at Kejriwals statement in Delhi Assembly, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva stated that Kejriwal, like many other opposition leaders across the country, has lost his political balance & is frustrated due to the visible wave in favor of the BJP thanks to the rising global image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the construction of the Ram Temple. State BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo today termed the JMM/Congress alliance government in State as being anti-backward. Shahdeo said that the arrogant coalition government, which sheds crocodile tears for backward classes, should remember its misdeeds. Pratul said that the central government is dedicated to the rights of the backward classes. There is doubt over the intentions of the state's coalition government. The post of Chairman of OBC Commission remained vacant for 14 months. In August 2023, the Cabinet said that the triple test will be conducted by the OBC Commission. But the post of Chairman of the Commission was also kept vacant for 8 months. Pratul said that in the Panchayat elections, the state government had filed an affidavit saying that it would conduct the elections under OBC reservation in the municipal elections. But the state government tried to conduct the elections through the backdoor without OBC reservation. This stopped after a strong rebuke and contempt notice from the Supreme Court. Pratul said that Congress should explain why the caste column was removed from the census when Nehru ji was the Prime Minister of the Constituent Assembly in 1951? Pratul said that the observation of the present situation is that this government is anti-ST, SC and OBC. There are zero Dalit ministers in the state government and only two OBC ministers. Whereas in the Modi government there are 27 OBC ministers, 12 SC ministers and 8 ST ministers. Pratul said that the Mandal Commission report was suppressed by the Congress government for 10 years. In 1990, Rajiv Gandhi, in his capacity as the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, had opposed the Mandal Commission report point by point. Pratul said that since independence, ST, SC, OBC reservation has been ignored in Jammu and Kashmir due to Article 370. The Modi government has given the benefit of reservation to everyone by removing Section 370. Pratul said that the Modi government was the first to reserve seats for the OBC category in Sainik School and Medical seats. He said that the Modi government gave constitutional status to the Backward Commission. Pratul said that it is not a coalition government of Jharkhand, it is a film theatre. New movies are being released every day. Scenes from the movie "Bhagam Bhaag" are being seen in the state. Pratul said that the Chief Minister kept running for 40 hours. The MLAs ran to Hyderabad. Now again the Congress MLAs are running around in Delhi. Pratul said that just like 'Mr. India', the Jharkhand government remained invisible on the issues of public welfare and poor welfare for 4 years, the Chief Minister remained invisible and absconded for 40 hours. So the same Congress MLA is also invisible for 48 hours. Another Hry Police personnel deployed at Shambhu Border, passes away Chandigarh: Another police personnel, ESI Kaushal Kumar, who was deployed at Shambhu Border during the farmers' protest, passed away on Tuesday. According to a police spokesperson, ESI Kumar suddenly fell ill on duty and was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Ambala, where doctors declared him dead. Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur expressed his condolences and prayed for peace to his soul. ESI Kaushal, stationed beneath the bridge near the Ghaggar River during the farmers' protest, was a resident of Kanjiwas village in Yamunanagar district. The 56-year-old was posted in account branch Ambala. His untimely demise has plunged both the Haryana Police Force and his family into profound grief. Throughout his career, ESI Kaushal performed his duties with unwavering seriousness and dedication, serving as a beacon of inspiration for his fellow police personnel, the spokesperson added. On February 16, GRP Sub-Inspector Hiralal, stationed at Shambhu Border, passed away due to poor health. ESI Kaushal Kumar becomes the second Haryana Police personnel to have lost their life on duty at Shambhu Border amidst the ongoing farmers' protest. BJP's Subhash Barala elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Hry Chandigarh: Former Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala on Tuesday was elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from the state. No other candidate had entered the fray, said the Returning Officer Saket Kumar. RO Kumar handed over the certificate of election to Barala. Only one Rajya Sabha seat from Haryana had fallen vacant. On April 2, the six-year term of incumbent and BJPs Rajya Sabha member Lieutenant General (retd) DP Vats will come to an end. The state has five Rajya Sabha seats, three of which are represented by BJP members while one seat is represented by the Congress Deepender Singh Hooda and another by Kartikeya Sharma, a BJP-supported Independent member. Barala served as state BJP chief from December 2014 to July 2020, later also remained the chairman of the Haryana Bureau of Public Enterprises. He had lost the October 2019 assembly polls from Tohana seat in Fatehabad district. Himachal Pradesh PWD gets Rs 60 cr to buy excavators tipper trucks Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government has allocated Rs 60 crore to the Public Works Department for procurement of such machines as tipper trucks and excavators, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Tuesday as he flagged off 15 tippers trucks of the PWD. Of the equipment slated to be procured, one tipper would be provided to Shimla division, one to Bhabhanagar, two each to Rampur, Kalpa, Rohru, Jubbal and Kotkhai divisions and three to Nirmand division. Sukhu said PWD recently procured 82 tippers and plans to purchase 107 excavators. The state government is in the process of phasing out vehicles with over 15 years of service, demonstrating the commitment to modernising infrastructure and improving disaster response, especially during snowfall and other emergencies, the CM said. He said that the state government is accelerating PWD projects and has streamlined the tender process by reducing it from 51 to 30 days. The Chhattisgarh government will provide free of cost sand for construction of houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). This was announced by Finance Minister O.P. Choudhary in the Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday. Choudhary also said sand would also be provided free to Panchayat bodies for construction work. He said this while replying to a query on illegal sand mining raised by BJP legislator Dharamjeet Singh. Singh alleged that illegal sand mining was going on across the state and said he will tender his resignation if less than 200 mining vehicles are found in the sand pits along rivers. He charged that the erstwhile Bhupesh Baghel government was involved in corruption in sand mining and there was a need to again hand over the mines to Panchayat bodies. Regarding action on sand mafia, Singh said lack of heavy fines encouraged the mafia. He demanded consistent and stern action against the sand mafia. Choudhary assured him of stern action. Chief Minister Champai Soren today announced to provide the benefits of Abua Awas Yojana to 9 lakh needy houseless families in the next three months. The Chief Minister said that within the coming 3 months, complete preparations are being made to provide the benefits of Abua Housing Scheme to 9 lakh poor families simultaneously. He said that former Chief Minister Hemant Soren has done the work of closely understanding the pain and suffering of the people living in the rural areas of the state. We will work to reach the state government schemes to the last person standing in the way of development. Under your plan, Apki Yojna-Apki Sarkar-Apke Dwar, officials of the block and district headquarters have done the work of reaching village-panchayat and door-to-door to solve the problems of the people. Our government's effort is to strengthen the rural economy by linking it with the government's ambitious schemes. Soren was addressing people at the distribution ceremony of letters sanctioned under "Abua Awas Yojana" organized at Giridih Stadium on Tuesday. The CM said that today our government has reached the land of Giridih to provide the benefits of 'Abua Awas Yojana' to the needy families. Today, more than 35 thousand homeless families of three districts Bokaro, Dhanbad and Giridih are getting the benefit of Abua Awas Yojana. It is an irony for the people of Jharkhand that the coal here is lighting the country but people in the rural areas of these districts are still forced to live in mud houses or slums. The Chief Minister said that former Chief Minister Shri Hemant Soren tried to understand the condition and lifestyle of all the communities of Jharkhand including tribals, indigenous people, Dalits, backward classes, minorities etc. Soren said that better work has been done to strengthen the education system in Jharkhand. Former Chief Minister Hemant Soren has done the work of bringing a lot of changes in the field of education. Our government has increased the scholarship amount for students studying in government schools of Jharkhand by three times. The Chief Minister said that the previous government had done the work of closing 5 thousand primary schools running in the state. We think that the children of the poor, labourers and farmers here should also be provided with all possible help so that they can get better education. The CM said that our government has started working with the aim of providing water to the fields of every farmer. Work is being done to supply water to the fields of farmer brothers through pipelines in various rural areas of Santal Division, Kolhan Division and Palamu Division. Our government is making every possible effort to strengthen the farmers economically. The work of providing water to the fields of farmer brothers by laying irrigation pipelines through various dams and barrages is in progress. The CM said that continuous work is being done to increase road connectivity in the city and rural areas. Former Chief Minister Hemant Soren has done the work of laying more road networks within the state. Our government is strengthening and constructing 15,000 kilometers of roads to provide road connectivity in rural areas. The Chief Minister said that good roads are very important in strengthening the rural economy. Our government is continuously carrying out road construction work and will continue to do so in future too. On this occasion, Minister Satyanand Bhokta, Minister Banna Gupta, Minister Baby Devi, MLA Vinod Singh, MLA Sudivya Kumar, MLA Dr. Lambodar Mahato, former MLA Dr. Sarfaraz Ahmed, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Vinay Kumar Choubey, Rural Development Department Secretary Chandrashekhar and other senior officials and a large number of people were present. The cabinet of Uttarakhand government led by chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid obeisance at Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya on Tuesday. The CM and his cabinet colleagues and Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal arrived at Maharishi Valmiki international airport in Ayodhya on a special plane on the day. In the temple, the CM and his cabinet offered prayers in the sanctum sanctorum. After paying obeisance to Lord Ram, a visibly moved Dhami said that after having Darshan of Lord Ram his heart is brimming with devotion and joy. He said that Ramlalla had to live in a tent for many years but now he is seated in a divine and grand temple which makes everyone happy and overwhelmed with emotions. The CM said that the Uttarakhand government has made preparations to build a state guesthouse for the people of the State in Ayodhya. He said that the state government has sanctioned an amount of Rs 32 crore for the purchase of land to build the state guesthouse. The guest house will be built in an area of 4,700 square metres. Dhami said that the pilgrims of the State coming from Uttarakhand to Ayodhya for Darshan of Lord Ram will be provided with boarding and lodging facilities in this state guest house. It is pertinent to mention here that on January 22, the day when the consecration ceremony of Ram temple was held in Ayodhya, CM Dhami had resolved to visit the temple with his cabinet. In the recently concluded special session of Uttarakhand assembly in which the bill on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and granting 10 per cent horizontal reservation to the statehood activists were passed a resolution thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the long awaited consecration ceremony of Lord Ram was also passed. Apart from CM Dhami, his cabinet colleagues Satpal Maharaj, Premchand Aggarwal, Subodh Uniyal, Dhan Singh Rawat, Rekha Arya and Rajya Sabha MP Naresh Bansal offered prayers in Ayodhya. In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing farmers agitation, tractor-trolleys laden with determination and resolve have converged at the Punjab-Haryana borders, poised to break through barriers erected by the Haryana Police at Shambhu and Khanauri. Armed not with weapons but with unwavering determination, these farmers are preparing for a showdown as they gear up for the Dilli Chalo protest march scheduled for Wednesday at 11 am. Fueling their determination are the recent developments in negotiations with the Central Government, which have failed to address the core demands of the farmerslegal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP). Despite the Government's offer to provide MSP for select crops, including cotton and pulses, farmer leaders have resolutely rejected these proposals, asserting that they fall short of ensuring a fair deal for all agricultural produce. We want more than just piecemeal solutions. We demand a legal guarantee of MSP for all crops, a fundamental right that safeguards the livelihoods of millions of farmers across the country, said farmer leader Jagjeet Singh Dallewal, who is leading the current protest. Dallewal said that discussions were held with both experts and farmers to assess the viability of the government's proposal. However, upon careful consideration, it was concluded that the offer did not align with the farmers' best interests, he said. Notably, the primary demand for a legal MSP guarantee remains paramount, with estimated costs of approximately Rs 1.75 lakh crore, as per estimates by the farmers. The preparations for the protest march resemble a battle formation, with farmers deploying heavy machinery such as JCBs and hydraulic cranes to dismantle barricades and clear the path to the national capital. Specially-designed bulletproof Poclain machines stand as a symbol of defiance, shielding protesters from potential harm (read tear-gas shells) as they confront the might of the state. Kisan Mazdoor Morchas (KMM) coordinator Sarwan Singh Pandher emphasized the commitment to a peaceful protest, but warned against any attempts by authorities to suppress their legitimate demands. We march with peace in our hearts, but with resilience in our spirits. Any use of force against us will only strengthen our resolve, he asserted. The sheer magnitude of the mobilization is staggering, with over 2,000 tractor-trolleys converging at strategic points along the border. Shambhu and Khanauri have become rallying points for farmers from Punjab, symbolizing the unity and determination of the agricultural community in their struggle against injustice. According to the latest affidavit filed by Punjabs Special Director General of Police, Law and Order, Arpit Shukla in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday, the situation at the Shambhu Border in Patiala district remains tense but peaceful, with a significant gathering of protesters. As of February 19 (that is Monday), the affidavit reported that during the daytime, approximately 13,000 to 13,500 individuals are present at the Shambhu Border, while during the night, the number slightly decreases to around 11,000 to 11,500. The gathering included a variety of vehicles, with 1,155 tractors, 1,363 trolleys, 127 cars or SUVs, 10 mini-buses, 80 water tanks, and 44 canters (big or small), along with around 20 to 25 bikes. Similarly, at the Khanauri border in Sangrur district, the affidavit indicated a significant presence of protesters. During the daytime, approximately 4,500 to 4,600 individuals were gathered at the Khanauri border, with the number reducing to around 3,700 to 3,900 during the night. The gathering included around 500 to 550 tractors or trolleys, 24 to 25 cars or SUVs, 20 to 22 water tanks, three canters (trucks), and approximately 40 to 45 bikes. Despite the large numbers and the presence of various types of vehicles, the affidavit highlighted that the present situation at both Shambhu and Khanauri borders remained peaceful. Notably, Haryana Police has erected strong barricades at both the borders to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. As the tension mounts, farmers have also formed a legal team to provide support and guidance amidst the legal complexities that may arise. Led by advocate Akhil Chaudhary, this team stands ready to defend the rights of protesters and ensure that justice prevails in the face of adversity. Punjab prohibits movement of JCBs, heavy equipment on Haryanas request In response to Haryana's concerns over potential disruptions caused by the use of heavy earthmoving machinery, Punjab has taken a decisive step by prohibiting the movement of JCBs and other heavy equipment. The move comes amidst escalating tensions and preparations for the farmers' protest march towards Delhi. Haryana Police, on February 14, had raised alarms over the possibility of protesters utilizing heavy machinery, like JCBs, to breach barricades at the Shambhu border in Ambala and the Data Singh border in Jind. In light of these warnings, Punjabs Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla issued directives to halt the movement of such equipment towards Patiala and Sangrur districts. The directive, outlined in an affidavit filed in the High Court on Tuesday, not only prohibits the use of JCBs but also instructs the senior police officials in various districts to establish round-the-clock checkpoints to monitor and restrict the movement of such machinery. As per the affidavit, the SSPs of several districts, including Barnala, Malerkotla, SAS Nagar, Bathinda, and Mansa, were instructed to set up round-the-clock police check-posts on roads leading to these districts to prevent any unauthorized movement of such machinery. The Central probe agencyEnforcement Directorate (ED) has decided to attach the 8.46 acres of land at Bargain areathe land which is alleged to be illegally owned by former Chief Minister Hemant Soren. The ED in its investigation has found that the land was illegally occupied by former Chief Minister Hemant Soren, where a banquet hall was to be constructed with the help of architect Vinod Singh. However, during the ED investigation, it was revealed that the registration of the land had been changed in the name of Rajkumar Pahan. This is not the first time that ED will seize any land. Earlier, ED had seized 4.55 acres of land used by the army. Former CM Hemant Soren is lodged in jail. On January 31, after about 7 hours of interrogation, ED took him into custody. After which, on February 2, he was produced in the PMLA court and taken on remand for 5 days. After the remand period was over, he appeared once again on 7 February and was sent on remand for 5 days and then for 3 days. During the remand period, Hemant Soren and the then Deputy Revenue Officer Bhanu Pratap Prasad were also interrogated face to face by the ED. At the same time, ED has also asked questions and answers from architect Vinod Singh. Now it is being said that Vinod Singh has become a witness for ED. Meanwhile, when the former CM was presented in the court on February 15 after the remand period was over, the court sent him to jail. After this, Bhanu Pratap Prasad was also arrested by ED in this case. Hemant Soren illegally acquired and possessed land parcels of approximately 8.5 acres, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had told the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Ranchi. The probe agency's investigation also revealed that several chats and other information pertaining to cash transactions obtained from Bhanu Pratap Prasad's mobile phone revealed illegal benefits that Hemant Soren received in acquiring these land parcels. Notably, the land fraud case stems from June 2023 raids against Bhanu Pratap Prasad, a sub-inspector in the Jharkhand Revenue Department, who allegedly worked along with the land mafia. The Enforcement Directorate claimed that chats from Prasad's phone "exposed" Hemant Soren's active role in the land scam that the agency is investigating. The probe also revealed that Bhanu Prasad was actively involved in hatching conspiracies to acquire properties in an illegal manner with Hemant Soren and other people. First of all, on April 13, 2023, ED had raided the house of Bhanu Pratap Prasad, the then Deputy Revenue Inspector of Badhgai zone. The agency had recovered many documents from here. Information about many lands was also received from mobile phones. Based on this case, ED had started an investigation. On April 14, ED arrested 7 people for the first time in this case. Apart from Pradeep Bagchi, Afsar Ali, Saddam Hussain, 4 more people were arrested. About 23 days later, former Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi, suspended IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan was arrested. Based on Chhavi's interrogation, Nucleus Mall owner Vishnu Aggarwal was arrested on July 31. As the protesting farmers from Punjab gear up to march towards Delhi on Wednesday morning as part of their ongoing Dilli Chalo protest, criticism against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns role in the negotiations has escalated. Even as Mann played the role of a mediator to resolve the prevailing issues raised by the farmers, all the opposition parties have intensified their attack against the Aam Aadmi Party leader after the farmers outfits rejected the Centres proposal regarding diversification and procurement. Wasting no time, opposition parties criticized the Chief Minister for his alleged mishandling of the negotiations and for failing to adequately represent the interests of the state's farmers. The criticism against Mann also extended to his handling of other matters related to the farmers' agitation. A day after the farmers outrightly rejected the Centres proposal, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar expressed disappointment while attributing the blame to Manns involvement. Jakhar asserted that Manns vested interests in the talks' failure were evident, as it allowed him to discredit the BJP-led Central Government and redirect farmers towards Delhi, undermining the sincere efforts of both sides to find a resolution. Accusing Mann of colluding with the BJP against farmers, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring highlighted instances of police brutality and social media restrictions allegedly orchestrated by the Punjab Government. Party colleague and former Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu also condemned Manns actions, labeling him as a pawn of the Centre and urging him to cease being manipulated by the Central Governments agenda. Also blaming Mann for the breakdown in talks, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) emphasized the farmers right to peaceful protest, urging the Central Government to refrain from suppressing their voices. Chief Ministers double talk during negotiations had failed the farming community and forced them on the path of agitation, said senior SAD leader Prem Singh Chandumajra, while appealing to the Central Government not to try to muzzle the peaceful protest of farmers. In a democracy, peaceful protest is a fundamental right and farmers should be allowed to peacefully proceed to Delhi, he added. Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, a day before, had criticized Mann for failing to protect farmers from police violence and demanded accountability for the officials responsible. As tensions escalate, all eyes are on the unfolding developments as farmers march towards Delhi, demanding justice and resolution to their long-standing grievances. The decision of Punjabs protesting farmers to intensify their agitation by marching towards Delhi comes after the fourth round of talks between farmer union leaders and Central Government ministers failed to yield any concrete results. The talks, held on Monday, concluded with the farmer leaders rejecting the government's offers, particularly its proposal to provide MSP for only a select few crops, including cotton, maize, lentils, pigeon peas, and chickpeas. While the government's proposal was seen as a step forward by some, many farmer leaders, including those from Punjab, remained steadfast in their demand for a legal guarantee of MSP for all 23 crops, as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission. They argued that anything short of this would not address the fundamental concerns of the farming community, which has been grappling with issues such as mounting debt, declining income, and lack of government support. /Amidst the ongoing standoff between the protesting farmers and the Central Government, farmer leaders on Tuesday demanded a one-day special Parliament session to ensure the legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP). The call for a special session comes a day after outright rejection of the Central Governments proposal regarding crop diversification and procurement following the four round of talks between the two sides. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Tuesday emphasized the urgency of convening the Parliament session to address critical agricultural legislation, particularly the guarantee of MSP for the farmers. At the same time, he urged all the political parties to clarify their stance on supporting MSP legislation. Expressing a commitment to peaceful protest, Pandher emphasized the need to avoid further confrontation, stating, We want to move peacefully. Don't want any more tear gas or rubber bullets to be used on us. However, he underscored the farmers readiness to escalate their actions if necessary, including the deployment of machinery such as the Hydra-borer and JCB in their convoy, if the need arises. The rejection of the Government's proposals, particularly regarding the procurement of pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP for five years, reflected the farmers dissatisfaction with the lack of substantive measures to address their concerns. Farmer leaders participating in the Delhi Chalo agitation categorically dismissed the proposals, citing their failure to serve the interests of farmers. Pandher's call for a parliamentary session highlights the urgency of addressing farmers demands through legislative action. Alongside MSP legislation, farmers are also demanding the waiver of farm loans, underscoring the economic hardships faced by agricultural communities across the country. The rejection of the government's proposals stemmed from discrepancies between what was discussed during negotiations and what was subsequently presented to the public. Farmer leaders denounced this inconsistency as unjust, further fueling their determination to press for their demands. As tensions mount, farmer leaders have announced their intention to proceed with the Delhi Chalo march, scheduled to commence on February 21 at 11 am. The rejection of the Central Government's proposal signifies a deepening impasse between the two sides. Despite weeks of discussions between farmer representatives and Union Ministers, no satisfactory resolution has been reached after four meetings. Frustrated with the lack of progress, farmer leaders have issued a stern ultimatum If the government fails to announce a final decision, they will proceed with a Delhi Chalo march, scheduled to commence from Shambhu at 11 am on Wednesday. Pandhers call for a one-day Parliament session underscored the gravity of the situation. Farmers across the country are facing mounting financial pressures, exacerbated by issues such as rising input costs and fluctuating market prices. The demand for MSP legislation aimed to provide a safety net for farmers, ensuring that they receive fair compensation for their produce. However, without legislative backing, MSP remains vulnerable to market forces and government policies, leaving farmers vulnerable to exploitation and economic uncertainty. The financial implications of the government's current proposal have also come under scrutiny. Farmer leaders have criticized the estimated cost of over Rs 1.5 lakh crores, raising concerns about the feasibility and sustainability of the plan. Additionally, there is a pressing need for debt relief, as highlighted by a recent government report that pegged agricultural debt at a staggering Rs 18 lakh crore. The call for debt waivers reflected the dire financial predicament faced by many farmers, further emphasizing the urgency of addressing their concerns through legislative action. In addition to MSP legislation and debt relief, farmer leaders are also advocating for the implementation of the C2 plus 50 per cent formula. This formula, which factors in the cost of production along with a 50 per cent profit margin for farmers, aimed at addressing the systemic inequalities inherent in agricultural pricing structures. Furthermore, farmer leaders have emphasized the potential for crop diversification as a means to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on costly imports. Meanwhile, the rejection of the Centres proposal has garnered support from various farmer organizations, including the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM). The Indian Railways will start a new train between Lalkuan railway station in Uttarakhand and Amritsar junction. The Railway ministry has given its approval to the proposal of the new train service. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the approval of the train service. He said that the new train will be beneficial to the people of the State. The CM had written a letter to the Railways minister Vaishnaw on December 2, 2023 in which he had requested that a train service should be started between Amritsar and Kathgodam. The Railway ministry has written a letter to the Uttarakhand CM in which the information about its approval for the new train service was given. / Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday hailed the verdict of the Supreme Court of India on the election of Mayor in Chandigarh Municipal Corporation and described it as the Triumph of democracy and truth. Mann said that it is a befitting reply to the high handedness of the BJP which had murdered the democracy to satiate its lust of attaining power in the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. He reiterated that January 30 will be remembered as the darkest day in the annals of Indian polity as BJP led Union government has murdered democracy during the election for post of Mayor in Chandigarh. However, Mann said that the verdict by the Apex court has restored the faith of people in the entire democratic process. The Chief Minister said that it is the victory of democracy and the entire country in general and Chandigarh in particular should rejoice in this historic decision. He said that BJP has a chronic habit of toppling democratically elected governments but this decision will stall this unconstitutional trend. Mann said that this is a historic occasion as the court has made every democracy lover happy by setting aside the rigging of poll done by the Presiding officer on the behest of BJP. He said that the court rejected the atrocious decision of the presiding officer to invalidate eight legal votes, adding that the reinstating of the eight votes has paved the way for Kuldeep Kumar of the AAP to become democratically elected Mayor. Mann said that the entire country is today indebted to the Apex court for this decision, which will go a long way in further strengthening the ethos of democracy in the nation. To protect children of the age group 1 to 15 years from Japanese Encephalitis vaccine would be administered from February 27. The Health Department has set a target of administering a single dose to 9 lakh children in Bhopal. The health department has made all preparations for this. Besides, health workers have been given special training on vaccination. CMHO Dr. Prabhakar Tiwari said that the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine will be administered to children aged between 1 year to 15 years in Bhopal from February 27. By administering this vaccine, children will develop immunity to fight the virus that causes meningitis. He said that children below 1 year of age will not be vaccinated against this fever. Children less than 1 year of age will be given the Cozenge encephalitis vaccine in the next phase of vaccination. CMHO Dr. Tiwari said that two doses of Japanese Encephalitis vaccine will be given to children below 1 year of age. The first dose will be given to the child after 9 months of birth. Whereas the second one will be taken when the child is 16 months old. But, in the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Program starting from February 27, this vaccine will not be given to children below 1 year of age. Bhopal CMHO Dr. Prabhakar Tiwari said that after getting the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine, the child concerned will not have fever or any other change in health. After receiving the vaccine, some children may have the problem of redness at the place where the vaccine has been given. But, the child will not need to take any medicine to remove the redness at the place where the vaccine has been given. The redness at the place where the vaccine has been administered will automatically resolve after a few minutes. Japanese encephalitis (JE) fever is also called Japanese fever and encephalitis. This is a disease caused by mosquito bites. According to the report of the National Vector Borne Control Program, Japanese encephalitis virus is found in pigs and wild birds. When a Culex species mosquito bites a pig or wild bird carrying JE virus, the JE virus reaches the mosquito's body. When this mosquito bites a healthy person, the person gets infected with Japanese encephalitis. MLA Anil Jain Kaluhera, Mayor Mukesh Tatwal, Ujjain municipal Corporation President Kalavati Yadav, Corporation Commissioner Ashish Pathak inspected the site of the trade fair area and got information about the preparations being done. Vikram Trade Fair is being organized in Ujjain city from 1st March to 9th April, due to which the construction work of shops under the trade fair along with other works has started at Dussehra Ground and PGPT College Ground. Ujjain North MLA Anil Jain Kalukheda, Mayor Mukesh Tatwal, Corporation President Kalavati Yadav along with Ujjain Municipal Commissioner Ashish Pathak and other officials inspected the site of the trade fair area and saw the arrangements being made and gave necessary instructions. During the inspection, Municipal Commissioner Ashish Pathak told that 174 shops will be set up in Dussehra ground. Of these, 131 automobiles, 12 food, 21 electronic and 10 stalls will be of different banks. Similarly, there will be 190 shops in the PGBT College campus. There will be 156 shops selling various handicrafts, 20 swings and 14 food shops and other activities will also be conducted. During the inspection, the public representatives directed that parking arrangements should be made at separate places for the citizens coming to the fair, special care should be taken for cleanliness, hygiene as well as lighting arrangements, drinking water arrangements, temporary toilet arrangements, entry And should also be made separately by issue. The president of Uttarakhand Mahila Congress Jyoti Rautela has said that the unemployment and price rise are at their peak due to failed policies of the Narendra Modi government. Interacting with media persons at the State headquarters of the Congress on Tuesday Rautela said that the women of the State are facing problems running their households due to escalating prices. She said that the Union government has imposed additional tax on household items which has put a burden on the general public. Rautela alleged that the BJP government is trying to disturb communal harmony for electoral gains. Rautela said that the only achievement of the Modi government is the hefty rise in the prices of the petrol, diesel and cooking gas. She said that the people are reeling under price rise but the government is providing no relief. She claimed that the people have now become disillusioned with the BJP government as it has failed to check the price rise. Mentioning the Ankita Bhandari case, Rautela said that the women of the State are not safe. The people involved in her murder are roaming freely, she said. The new hostel building of the Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) will be constructed as a green building. An order regarding this was given by the chief secretary Radha Raturi while presiding over a meeting of the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) of the hostel building of GDMC at her office on Tuesday. The hostel building will be constructed with a budget of Rs 7.69 crore on a 3.63 acre plot of land in the medical college. The project is expected to get completed in a time period of 24 months and is being financed under the State sector of the budget. In the meeting the CS said that the building will prove beneficial for the under graduate, post graduate, interns and senior residents of the GDMC. She directed the health department and the work executing agency to ensure that the building is constructed with facilities of energy efficiency and rain water harvesting. The Bridge and Roof Company India Limited is constructing the hostel building. The meeting was attended by the secretary R Rajesh Kumar and other officers. Chatra Police, on Tuesday, has arrested three militants including TPC Area Commander, Irfan Ansari, who was involved in the murder of coal trader, Abhishek Srivastava. Acting on the basis of secret information received by Chatra Superintendent of Police (SP), Rakesh Ranjan, the police team has arrested Sub-Zonal Commander Abhishek, Area Commander, Irfan Ansari and Balwant of TPC militant organization. The district Police have recovered two country made pistols, nine live bullets, four mobile phones and many other items from these militants. Militant Irfan Ansari had carried out many major incidents one after the other and he became synonymous with terror in Tandwa, Piparwar, Khalari, McCluskieganj, Budhmu and Ratu. In which there was arson in the highway of Jai Ambe Transport Company in Sengabilari of Piparwar police station area. He was involved in brutally killing coal businessman Abhishek Srivastava by shooting him in Piparwar and Khalari police station area, and in disrupting the loading work at Rajdhar Railway Siding in Piparwar police station area and the road work under construction in Utrathi in Tandwa police station area and getting the firing done at the site. . Addressing a press meet at his office Ranjan said that for the last few days, coal traders and businessmen associated with development work in Piparwar and Tandwa police station areas of Chatra district have been banned by Sub-Zonal Commander of TPC, Sub-Zonal Commander Abhishek. In the name of area commander Irfan Ansari alias Tufan and active member Balwant alias Sandeep Lohra, extortion levy was being demanded by threatening to kill them. Due to which there was fear in the minds of businessmen working in the coalfield area, hr added. The SP said that meanwhile, on January 4, a businessman associated with coal business, Abhishek Srivastava, was shot dead in Ratu police station area in Piparwar police station area. After this incident, prompt arrest of members of the militant organization and businessmen associated with coal work were carried out. A police team was formed to free them from the fear prevalent in their minds, after which the police team arrested all three militants, he added. The arrested militants have a criminal history, a total of 17 cases are registered against Irfan Ansari in different police stations of Ranchi, Chatra and Latehar districts. There are six cases registered against Abhishek in Chatra and Ranchi. The third convocation ceremony of Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ) will be held on February 28. President Draupadi Murmu will be the chief guest of the convocation ceremony. In this convocation, 64 students of session 2016-21 integrated course and session 2019-21 and 2020-22 two-year course will be given gold. PhD degree will be awarded on 25th February and 778 students will be awarded the degree. Apart from this, Chancellor Medal will be given to 3 students. A total of 35 girls are included in 64 gold. White salwar-suit has been prescribed for girl students and white kurta-pajama has been prescribed for boys. It is mandatory for the male members of Academic Council and Executive Council to wear cream coloured kurta and white coloured pajama and for female members, it is mandatory to wear cream coloured saree. Khadi patta will be given to the students, Academic Council and Executive Council attending the function and silk patta will be given to the special guests attending the function by the University. The State Government has been informed about the President's arrival in Ranchi. Preparations have been started by the State Government and the university administration for the arrival of the President. It is noteworthy that this will be the third visit of Draupadi Murmu to Jharkhand after becoming the President. Last time the President had reached Ranchi on January 24 for the inauguration of the new High Court. Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav participated in the digital launch program of projects from Jammu under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Gyan Vigyan Bhawan of Barkatullah University, Bhopal. Chief Minister Yadav said that the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will help carry out innovation, research and infrastructure development works in universities. Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for their immense support for improving higher education system, he said that Madhya Pradesh will live up to the mark will emerge as the best in the country in respect of higher education. Governor Dr Patel and Chief Minister Dr Yadav inaugurated the programme. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sanctioning Rs 400 crore to the universities of Madhya Pradesh. The programme was held at Gyan Vigyan Bhawan of Barkatullah University, Bhopal Chief Minister Yadav said that Prime Minister Modi's contribution for the unity and integrity of the country will be remembered forever. It is noteworthy that in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the Prime Minister Higher Education Mission (PM-USHA), 220 development projects worth Rs. 32 thousand crores including Jammu AIIMS were inaugurated, inaugurated and the foundation stone was laid. It may be mentioned that along with providing industrial training to the youth through the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan, the objective of the New Education Policy 2020 will also be achieved. Assistance of Rs 100 crore each has been approved to Barkatullah, Vikram and Jiwaji Universities under the Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU) component. Similarly, under the Grant to Strengthen Universities (GSU) component, assistance of Rs 20 crore each has been approved for Devi Ahilya, Rani Durgavati, Awadhesh Pratap Singh, Pandit SN Shukla and Maharaj Chhatrasal Bundelkhand University. With this, administrative buildings, academic buildings, research labs, library buildings, computer labs, hostels and classrooms will be constructed for infrastructure development in universities. Besides, facilities for national and international conferences, seminars, webinars, educational tours, faculty enrichment and professional training will be available. Minister of State for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare (Independent Charge) Krishna Gaur, Additional Chief Secretary KC Gupta, Chairman of Private University Regulatory Commission Dr. Bharat Sharan Singh, Vice Chancellor K.K. Jain were present. Activist Manoj Jarange on Wednesday claimed the bill providing 10 per cent reservation to the Maratha community would not stand legal scrutiny and reiterated his demand that the Maharashtra government's draft notification on 'blood relatives' of Kunbi Marathas be converted into a law. Speaking to reporters at Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district, Jarange, who has been on a hunger strike since February 10, said a meeting of the Maratha community members will be held here in the afternoon after which further course of action will be decided. The Maharashtra legislature during a one-day special session on Tuesday unanimously passed a bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the Marathas in education and government jobs under a separate category, but Jarange has been firm on his demand for quota for the community under the OBC head. A substantial number of castes and groups are already placed in the reserved category, getting about 52 per cent of reservations altogether. It would be completely inequitable to place the Maratha community in the Other Backward Class (OBC) category, the bill said. As per the draft notification issued by the state government last month, if a Maratha person has proof to show that he or she belongs to Kunbi caste, the person's blood relatives too would be recognised as Kunbi. Kunbis fall under the OBC category and get quota benefits. The scrutiny of the draft notification issued last month for granting certificates to extended blood relatives of Kunbi Marathas is currently underway as 6 lakh objections have been received, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde told the legislative assembly on Tuesday. Jarange on Wednesday said the government issued a draft notification (earlier this month) for giving quota to the relatives of Marathas. "But it didn't implement it and no discussion took place over it in the special session of the assembly. People still have faith in Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He should accept that the oath (on granting reservation) he took earlier is still incomplete. He should tell the hurdles in implementing the quota for relatives (of Marathas)," he said. Jarange claimed the government would have "regretted" its decision of 10 per cent reservation for the Maratha community because no one celebrated in the state after it was announced. "The (Maratha) community people have understood that this is the same reservation that they were given earlier also (but was later struck down)," he added. "The Maratha community has nothing to do with the 10 per cent reservation given in the special assembly session on Tuesday. It will not stand legal scrutiny," he said. A meeting of Maratha community members will be held in Antarwali Sarati village in the afternoon after which further course of action will be decided, he said. Jarange also said he will continue to take medical treatment following the Bombay High Court's directive. After tabling the bill in the Lower House on Tuesday, CM Shinde said as many as 22 states in the country have crossed the 50 per cent reservation mark. "For instance, Tamil Nadu state has 69 per cent, Haryana 67 per cent, Rajasthan 64 per cent, Bihar 69 per cent, Gujarat 59 per cent and West Bengal 55 per cent. I can mention other states as well. The purpose of the session is to help the (Maratha) community," he said. "We want to give reservation to the Maratha community without touching the existing quota of the OBCs in the state. The Marathas have been struggling for the last 40 years to get reservation benefits," the CM said. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal on Wednesday said the protesting farmers camping at the border points between Punjab and Haryana will march towards Delhi in a peaceful manner. "Our intention is not to disturb peace," he said, ahead of the farmers' planned march towards the national capital. Accusing the BJP-led Centre of indulging in "delaying tactics" over the farmers' demands, Dallewal asked the government to take a decision in their favour. He also condemned the Centre for setting up multi-layered barricades at the border points between Punjab and Haryana to prevent them from heading towards Delhi. "It is our request that we want to go to Delhi in a peaceful manner. The government should remove the barricades and give us the permission to march towards Delhi and make arrangements for our sitting in Delhi," Dallewal told reporters at the Shambhu border point. He criticised the government for not making a statement on enacting a law on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Dallewal said they will start marching towards Delhi at 11 am. Asked whether the farmers will use excavators or JCB machines for forcing their way to Delhi, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said, "We will not use machines." If excavators are brought, "we will stop them", he added. When told that the Punjab and Haryana High Court has said tractor-trolleys cannot ply on highways, Pandher said tractor-trolleys are taken to fairs and rallies as well. Those can be used for a peaceful agitation, he said. Replying to a question, Dallewal said they have not received any fresh invite for talks. Pandher said they had requested the Centre with folded hands to resolve the farmers' demands. "Discussions took place on each demand and now is the time for taking decisions," he said while referring to the farmers' four rounds of talks with a panel of three Union ministers. "If the Centre comes forward and says it is ready to enact a law on the MSP, then things can move," Pandher said. "We should be allowed to march towards Delhi for holding a peaceful protest," he added. Dallewal asked the protesting farmers to remain peaceful and not to indulge in violence. The farmers protesting at two border points between Punjab and Haryana will resume their "Delhi Chalo" march on Wednesday after they rejected the Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by government agencies for five years. Thousands of farmers, who began their march to Delhi on February 13, were stopped at the Punjab-Haryana border, where they clashed with security personnel. The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the "Delhi Chalo" march to press the Centre to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops and farm loan waiver. Famous radio personality Ameen Sayani, the iconic voice behind 'Binaca Geetmala', has died at the age of 91, his son Rajil Sayani said on Wednesday. Sayani suffered a heart attack on Tuesday night and was taken to a hospital in South Mumbai but could not be saved. "He passed away last night of heart attack at H N Reliance hospital. He was rushed to the hospital last evening around 6:00pm after he complained of chest pain. They tried to revive him but he passed away around 7:00pm, Rajil told PTI. Rajil said last rites will be held tomorrow and that the family will be issuing a statement soon. Sayani, whose introduction Namaste behno aur bhaiyon, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon' on Radio Ceylon still evokes strong nostalgia amongst listeners, was born in Mumbai in a multilingual family on December 21, 1932. He had a creative flair since childhood and started writing for his mother's fortnightly journal 'Rehbar' when he was just 13, which was also the age when he became a proficient broadcaster in English and started participating in children's programmes on the English service of All India Radio Bombay. Sayani, however, was rejected when he auditioned to present in Hindustani because of a slight tinge of Gujarati accent in his voice. When the then Minister for Information and Broadcasting, B V Keskar banned Hindi songs from AIR, Radio Ceylon started to become popular, which was then broadcasts from Colombo, started to boom. Sayani got a chance to host 'Binaca Geetmala' on Radio Ceylon in December 1952 and never looked back. A first of its kind show, the show ran from 1952 to 1994 to massive popularity for 42 long years. With variations in its name, it continued to woo listeners in the early 2000s too. Farmers from around Greece were travelling to Athens in tractor convoys on Tuesday to demand more financial concessions from the government as the cost of living increases. Some 200 tractors formed the main convoy in central Greece heading southward, while thousands of protesters were expected to travel to the capital on chartered buses and ferries. The Greek farmers whose demands are similar to those at widespread farmer protests elsewhere in Europe have spent weeks staging sporadic blockades along highways and in rural towns. With horns blaring, the slow-moving main convoy headed out from the central Greek town of Kastro, 120 km (75 miles) northwest of Athens, with Greek flags, black flags and protest banners fastened to the tractors. One banner read: Without us you dont eat. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in a television interview late Monday, said he could not support additional tax breaks and concessions but insisted his centre-right government wanted to continue discussions with the protesters. The government took back a threat to block the protest and police assisted with efforts to avoid disruptions to highway traffic. South Africa argued at the United Nations top court on Tuesday that Israel is responsible for apartheid against the Palestinians and that Israels occupation of land sought for a Palestinian state is inherently and fundamentally illegal. Israel rejects such claims. The South African representatives were speaking on the second day of hearings at the International Court of Justice into a request by the General Assembly for a non-binding advisory opinion on the legality of Israels policies in the occupied territories. South Africa bears a special obligation, both to its own people and the international community, to ensure that wherever the egregious and offensive practices of apartheid occur, these must be called out for what they are and brought to an immediate end, the countrys ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, told the panel of 15 international judges. Israel rejects accusations of apartheid and usually dismisses UN bodies and international tribunals as unfair and biased against it. Israel is not making a statement during the hearings, which are taking place against the backdrop of the war in Gaza that has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. Israel sent a written submission last year in which it argued that the questions put to the court are prejudiced and fail to recognize Israels right and duty to protect its citizens, address Israeli security concerns or acknowledge past agreements with the Palestinians to negotiate the permanent status of the territory, security arrangements, settlements, and borders. Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for an independent state. Israel considers the West Bank to be disputed territory and says its future should be decided in negotiations. Israel has also built settlements across the West Bank, many of which resemble fully developed suburbs and small towns. The settlements are home to more than 500,000 Jewish settlers, while around 3 million Palestinians live in the territory. Israel annexed east Jerusalem and considers the entire city to be its capital. The international community overwhelmingly considers the settlements to be illegal. Israels annexation of east Jerusalem, home to the citys most sensitive holy sites, is not internationally recognized. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement Monday that Israel does not recognize the legitimacy of the discussions at the International Court of Justice. He called the case part of the Palestinian attempt to dictate the results of the political agreement without negotiations. South African representative Pieter Andreas Stemmet told the court on Tuesday that the settlements have extended the temporary nature of the occupation into a permanent situation in violation of the Palestinian right to self-determination. South Africas legal arguments echoed those made a day earlier by Palestinian representatives as six days of hearings opened before the Netherlands-based court. After the Palestinians opened hearings, a total of 51 nations and three international organizations are scheduled to address the court, which will likely take months to issue its advisory opinion. The Palestinians argue that Israels open-ended military occupation has violated the prohibition on territorial conquest and the Palestinians right to self-determination, and has imposed a system of racial discrimination and apartheid. This occupation is annexation and supremacist in nature, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki said Tuesday. Visionary Wealth Advisors raised its position in shares of AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV Free Report) by 5.0% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 60,025 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,840 shares during the period. Visionary Wealth Advisors holdings in AbbVie were worth $8,947,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in ABBV. Goepper Burkhardt LLC raised its holdings in shares of AbbVie by 1.9% in the 4th quarter. Goepper Burkhardt LLC now owns 3,506 shares of the companys stock worth $567,000 after acquiring an additional 67 shares during the last quarter. Vantage Consulting Group Inc lifted its stake in AbbVie by 4.2% in the 2nd quarter. Vantage Consulting Group Inc now owns 1,667 shares of the companys stock worth $225,000 after purchasing an additional 67 shares in the last quarter. Syntax Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of AbbVie by 4.2% during the 2nd quarter. Syntax Advisors LLC now owns 1,667 shares of the companys stock valued at $225,000 after buying an additional 67 shares in the last quarter. Clearwater Capital Advisors LLC raised its position in AbbVie by 3.9% in the 3rd quarter. Clearwater Capital Advisors LLC now owns 1,859 shares of the companys stock worth $277,000 after purchasing an additional 69 shares during the period. Finally, Founders Capital Management LLC raised its position in AbbVie by 0.3% in the 3rd quarter. Founders Capital Management LLC now owns 22,926 shares of the companys stock worth $3,417,000 after purchasing an additional 70 shares during the period. 67.86% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get AbbVie alerts: AbbVie Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:ABBV traded down $0.63 on Tuesday, hitting $176.86. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,803,755 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,371,355. The stocks 50-day moving average is $163.23 and its two-hundred day moving average is $152.41. The company has a market capitalization of $318.35 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 65.01, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.26 and a beta of 0.57. 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 12 month low of $130.96 and a 12 month high of $178.92. AbbVie Dividend Announcement AbbVie ( NYSE:ABBV Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.79 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.76 by $0.03. The business had revenue of $14.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.02 billion. AbbVie had a return on equity of 154.73% and a net margin of 8.95%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 5.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $3.60 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that AbbVie Inc. will post 11.14 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Investors of record on Monday, April 15th will be paid a dividend of $1.55 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 12th. This represents a $6.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.51%. AbbVies payout ratio is 227.11%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In ABBV has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on shares of AbbVie from $187.00 to $195.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Monday, February 5th. The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded shares of AbbVie from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $173.00 target price for the company in a research report on Monday, December 11th. Raymond James upped their price target on shares of AbbVie from $181.00 to $189.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of AbbVie from $193.00 to $196.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 30th. Finally, Barclays upped their price target on shares of AbbVie from $175.00 to $185.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $175.36. Get Our Latest Report on ABBV Insider Activity at AbbVie In related news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 2,912 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, December 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $154.72, for a total transaction of $450,544.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 55,903 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,649,312.16. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.26% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. AbbVie Company 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. Recommended Stories 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. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Carters (NYSE:CRI Free Report) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report report published on Sunday morning. Separately, TheStreet upgraded Carters from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Friday, December 22nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and three have given a hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Carters has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $66.67. Get Carter's alerts: Read Our Latest Report on CRI Carters Price Performance Insider Buying and Selling Shares of CRI stock opened at $81.63 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.96, a current ratio of 2.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72. Carters has a twelve month low of $60.65 and a twelve month high of $82.50. The stock has a market cap of $3.01 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.90 and a beta of 1.30. The businesss fifty day moving average is $75.95 and its 200 day moving average is $71.36. In other Carters news, EVP Julie Demilio sold 3,400 shares of Carters stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $72.50, for a total transaction of $246,500.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 42,783 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,101,767.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 3.50% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Carters Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of CRI. BlackRock Inc. increased its holdings in Carters by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 3,454,471 shares of the textile makers stock valued at $317,777,000 after buying an additional 23,125 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in shares of Carters by 4.7% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,154,133 shares of the textile makers stock worth $228,990,000 after purchasing an additional 140,152 shares during the period. Shapiro Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Carters by 3.9% in the 2nd quarter. Shapiro Capital Management LLC now owns 2,871,448 shares of the textile makers stock worth $208,467,000 after purchasing an additional 108,412 shares during the period. Mackenzie Financial Corp lifted its position in shares of Carters by 4.0% in the 4th quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 2,287,686 shares of the textile makers stock worth $170,684,000 after purchasing an additional 88,720 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its position in shares of Carters by 5.5% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 1,713,889 shares of the textile makers stock worth $118,515,000 after purchasing an additional 90,094 shares during the period. About Carters (Get Free Report) Carter's, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, sources, and markets branded childrenswear under the Carter's, OshKosh, Skip Hop, Child of Mine, Just One You, Simple Joys, little planet, and other brands in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: U.S. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Carter's Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Carter's and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RE/MAX (NYSE:RMAX Get Free Report) is scheduled to be releasing its earnings data after the market closes on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect RE/MAX to post earnings of $0.28 per share for the quarter. Persons that wish to register for the companys earnings conference call can do so using this link. RE/MAX Stock Performance NYSE:RMAX opened at $9.15 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.32, a current ratio of 1.32 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.39. The firm has a market capitalization of $166.90 million, a PE ratio of -2.73 and a beta of 1.45. RE/MAX has a twelve month low of $8.61 and a twelve month high of $20.48. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $11.34 and its 200 day simple moving average is $12.35. Get RE/MAX alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other news, major shareholder Adam K. Peterson purchased 12,345 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $8.88 per share, for a total transaction of $109,623.60. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 2,983,843 shares of the companys stock, valued at $26,496,525.84. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other RE/MAX news, major shareholder Adam K. Peterson bought 24,342 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 28th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $8.84 per share, with a total value of $215,183.28. Following the completion of the purchase, the insider now directly owns 2,971,498 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $26,268,042.32. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, major shareholder Adam K. Peterson bought 12,345 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 30th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $8.88 per share, with a total value of $109,623.60. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 2,983,843 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $26,496,525.84. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 3.37% of the stock is owned by insiders. Institutional Trading of RE/MAX Analyst Ratings Changes Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in shares of RE/MAX by 0.6% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 3,702,826 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $102,679,000 after purchasing an additional 23,441 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP raised its stake in RE/MAX by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,407,232 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $26,398,000 after buying an additional 17,871 shares during the period. Renaissance Technologies LLC boosted its holdings in RE/MAX by 5.3% in the first quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 1,089,000 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $30,198,000 after acquiring an additional 54,500 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its stake in RE/MAX by 1.0% in the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 699,771 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $13,128,000 after acquiring an additional 6,884 shares during the period. Finally, Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of RE/MAX by 5.6% during the first quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 533,430 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $10,007,000 after acquiring an additional 28,350 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.17% of the companys stock. A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on RMAX shares. Morgan Stanley cut shares of RE/MAX from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and lowered their price objective for the stock from $19.50 to $9.00 in a research report on Tuesday, November 7th. StockNews.com upgraded RE/MAX from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Jonestrading dropped their target price on RE/MAX from $22.00 to $18.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, November 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued an underweight rating and set a $14.00 price target (down from $16.00) on shares of RE/MAX in a research note on Monday, December 18th. Finally, TheStreet downgraded RE/MAX from a c- rating to a d rating in a research note on Friday, November 3rd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, RE/MAX has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $15.50. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on RMAX RE/MAX Company Profile (Get Free Report) RE/MAX Holdings, Inc operates as a franchisor of real estate and mortgage brokerage services in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through Real Estate, Mortgage, and Marketing Funds segments. The company offers real estate brokerage franchising services under the RE/MAX brand; mortgage brokerage services to real estate brokers, real estate professionals, mortgage professionals, and other investors under the Motto Mortgage brand; and mortgage loan processing software and services under the wemlo brand. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for RE/MAX Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RE/MAX and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report report published on Saturday morning. Other equities research analysts also recently issued research reports about the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised Mohawk Industries from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their price target for the company from $98.00 to $152.00 in a research report on Monday, February 12th. Truist Financial boosted their price target on Mohawk Industries from $98.00 to $127.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 13th. TheStreet downgraded Mohawk Industries from a c- rating to a d+ rating in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on Mohawk Industries from $101.00 to $106.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Monday, February 12th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price target on Mohawk Industries from $105.00 to $120.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Mohawk Industries has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $116.10. Get Mohawk Industries alerts: Get Our Latest Report on Mohawk Industries Mohawk Industries Stock Performance Mohawk Industries stock opened at $114.07 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $7.26 billion, a P/E ratio of -16.48 and a beta of 1.31. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $105.27 and a 200 day moving average price of $94.75. Mohawk Industries has a 52 week low of $76.02 and a 52 week high of $118.36. The company has a current ratio of 1.78, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22. Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, February 9th. The company reported $1.96 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.86 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $2.61 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.56 billion. Mohawk Industries had a positive return on equity of 7.52% and a negative net margin of 3.95%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 1.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.32 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Mohawk Industries will post 9.71 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Activity at Mohawk Industries In related news, insider Suzanne L. Helen sold 5,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 13th. The stock was 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 sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 17.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Victory Capital Management Inc. raised its stake in Mohawk Industries by 6.9% during the second quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 8,791 shares of the companys stock valued at $907,000 after buying an additional 570 shares in the last quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC raised its stake in Mohawk Industries by 132.1% during the second quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 335,800 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,641,000 after buying an additional 191,100 shares in the last quarter. Heartland Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Mohawk Industries by 33.4% during the third quarter. Heartland Advisors Inc. now owns 313,437 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,896,000 after buying an additional 78,508 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its stake in Mohawk Industries by 2.6% during the third quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 510,036 shares of the companys stock valued at $43,766,000 after buying an additional 12,989 shares in the last quarter. Finally, IFM Investors Pty Ltd raised its stake in Mohawk Industries by 4.4% during the third quarter. IFM Investors Pty Ltd now owns 10,447 shares of the companys stock valued at $896,000 after buying an additional 442 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.04% of the companys stock. Mohawk Industries Company Profile (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). Recommended Stories 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. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of United States Steel (NYSE:X Free Report) in a research report released on Saturday morning. The brokerage issued a hold rating on the basic materials companys stock. A number of other research analysts have also commented on X. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their price objective on United States Steel from $34.00 to $33.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 31st. Morgan Stanley downgraded shares of United States Steel from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and upped their price target for the company from $40.00 to $51.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of United States Steel from $32.00 to $31.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, November 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. started coverage on shares of United States Steel in a research report on Friday, January 12th. They set a neutral rating and a $52.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Argus downgraded shares of United States Steel from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, November 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and eight have given a hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $32.78. Get United States Steel alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on United States Steel United States Steel Stock Performance NYSE X opened at $45.78 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $10.24 billion, a PE ratio of 13.04 and a beta of 2.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a quick ratio of 1.22 and a current ratio of 1.76. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $46.93 and a 200-day moving average of $37.50. United States Steel has a 52-week low of $20.40 and a 52-week high of $50.20. United States Steel (NYSE:X Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 2nd. The basic materials company reported $0.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.21 by $0.46. United States Steel had a net margin of 4.96% and a return on equity of 10.80%. The firm had revenue of $4.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.73 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.87 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 4.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that United States Steel will post 2.92 EPS for the current year. United States Steel Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, March 13th. Shareholders of record on Monday, February 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.05 per share. This represents a $0.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.44%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 9th. United States Steels payout ratio is presently 5.70%. Insider Activity In other United States Steel news, SVP Daniel R. Brown sold 5,000 shares of United States Steel stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $35.00, for a total value of $175,000.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 91,968 shares in the company, valued at $3,218,880. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, SVP Daniel R. Brown sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $35.00, for a total value of $175,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 91,968 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,218,880. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO David B. Burritt sold 252,458 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, December 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $50.01, for a total transaction of $12,625,424.58. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 581,609 shares of the companys stock, valued at $29,086,266.09. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 262,458 shares of company stock worth $13,049,275. Insiders own 0.98% of the companys stock. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Franklin Resources Inc. lifted its holdings in United States Steel by 381.5% during the 2nd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 218,955 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $5,476,000 after buying an additional 173,480 shares during the period. Aviva PLC bought a new stake in United States Steel in the third quarter valued at approximately $1,673,000. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in United States Steel by 6.6% in the third quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 1,243,678 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $40,395,000 after acquiring an additional 77,225 shares during the last quarter. Forest Avenue Capital Management LP acquired a new stake in United States Steel during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $7,435,000. Finally, Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund raised its holdings in United States Steel by 33.6% during the 3rd quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund now owns 49,296 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,601,000 after purchasing an additional 12,394 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.60% of the companys stock. United States Steel Company Profile (Get Free Report) United States Steel Corporation produces and sells flat-rolled and tubular steel products primarily in North America and Europe. The company operates through North American Flat-Rolled (Flat-Rolled), Mini Mill, U. S. Steel Europe (USSE), and Tubular Products (Tubular) segments. The Flat-Rolled segment offers slabs, strip mill plates, sheets, and tin mill products, as well as iron ore and coke. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for United States Steel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for United States Steel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. (CVE:LIT Get Free Report)s stock price was up 12.3% during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as C$0.33 and last traded at C$0.32. Approximately 128,335 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 88% from the average daily volume of 68,177 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.29. Argentina Lithium & Energy Stock Performance The company has a current ratio of 0.92, a quick ratio of 2.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.09. The firm has a market capitalization of C$40.00 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -3.05 and a beta of 0.12. The company has a 50-day moving average of C$0.31 and a 200-day moving average of C$0.33. Get Argentina Lithium & Energy alerts: Argentina Lithium & Energy (CVE:LIT Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 20th. The company reported C($0.01) EPS for the quarter. About Argentina Lithium & Energy Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp., a junior mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation of natural resource properties in the Americas and Argentina. The company holds 100% interest in the Incahuasi lithium project covering an area of approximately 13,372 hectares of granted mineral rights properties located in the Catamarca Province, Argentina. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Argentina Lithium & Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Argentina Lithium & Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bison Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund bought 2,808 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $383,000. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. IFP Advisors Inc boosted its position in Jacobs Solutions by 3.7% in the third quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 2,165 shares of the companys stock worth $296,000 after purchasing an additional 78 shares during the last quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC boosted its position in Jacobs Solutions by 47.7% in the second quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 254 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 82 shares during the last quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. boosted its position in Jacobs Solutions by 0.9% in the third quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. now owns 9,346 shares of the companys stock worth $1,276,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares during the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC raised its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 11.4% in the third quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 887 shares of the companys stock valued at $121,000 after buying an additional 91 shares during the period. Finally, Veritable L.P. raised its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 1.7% in the first quarter. Veritable L.P. now owns 5,350 shares of the companys stock valued at $629,000 after buying an additional 91 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.77% of the companys stock. Get Jacobs Solutions alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts have issued reports on the company. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their target price on Jacobs Solutions from $151.00 to $161.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Raymond James lowered Jacobs Solutions from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Benchmark restated a buy rating and issued a $160.00 target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. KeyCorp assumed coverage on Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. They issued a sector weight rating on the stock. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and set a $150.00 price objective on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Tuesday, November 21st. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $152.11. Insider Transactions at Jacobs Solutions In other news, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total value of $194,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 28,150 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, insider Steven J. Demetriou sold 6,666 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $127.75, for a total value of $851,581.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 581,138 shares in the company, valued at approximately $74,240,379.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total value of $194,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 28,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,645,425. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders sold 19,018 shares of company stock worth $2,475,578. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Jacobs Solutions Price Performance Shares of NYSE J opened at $145.32 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $18.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.95, a P/E/G ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a quick ratio of 1.37, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $134.28 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $133.44. Jacobs Solutions Inc. has a twelve month low of $109.00 and a twelve month high of $149.17. Jacobs Solutions (NYSE:J Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.02 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.56 by $0.46. The business had revenue of $4.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.02 billion. Jacobs Solutions had a return on equity of 14.57% and a net margin of 4.20%. The companys quarterly 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 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Jacobs Solutions Inc. will post 8.06 EPS for the current fiscal year. Jacobs Solutions Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 22nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be issued a $0.29 dividend. 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 dividend yield of 0.80%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. Jacobs Solutionss dividend payout ratio is presently 18.57%. About Jacobs Solutions (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. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding J? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report). 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. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Eagle Materials Inc. (NYSE:EXP Free Report) by 28.6% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 74,393 shares of the construction companys stock after acquiring an additional 16,548 shares during the period. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC owned about 0.21% of Eagle Materials worth $12,388,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Eagle Materials by 2.0% during the 2nd quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,821 shares of the construction companys stock worth $526,000 after acquiring an additional 55 shares during the last quarter. Covestor Ltd raised its position in Eagle Materials by 77.6% during the 2nd quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 151 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC raised its position in Eagle Materials by 2.0% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 3,793 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $632,000 after purchasing an additional 74 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in Eagle Materials by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 12,674 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $2,110,000 after purchasing an additional 82 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Quadrant Capital Group LLC raised its position in Eagle Materials by 13.8% during the 2nd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 709 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $132,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares in the last quarter. 92.57% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Eagle Materials alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of brokerages have weighed in on EXP. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on Eagle Materials from $215.00 to $238.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 26th. Truist Financial lifted their price target on Eagle Materials from $220.00 to $250.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, January 29th. StockNews.com raised Eagle Materials from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, January 8th. Loop Capital raised Eagle Materials from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $170.00 to $240.00 in a research report on Monday, January 8th. Finally, Raymond James boosted their price target on Eagle Materials from $170.00 to $230.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, January 29th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $222.00. Eagle Materials Stock Down 0.2 % NYSE:EXP traded down $0.43 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $241.70. 6,330 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 297,839. The company has a fifty day moving average of $215.51 and a 200 day moving average of $188.43. Eagle Materials Inc. has a twelve month low of $129.76 and a twelve month high of $252.30. The company has a market capitalization of $8.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.09 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a current ratio of 2.61. Eagle Materials (NYSE:EXP Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 25th. The construction company reported $3.72 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.56 by $0.16. The business had revenue of $558.83 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $537.23 million. Eagle Materials had a return on equity of 40.05% and a net margin of 22.24%. On average, analysts forecast that Eagle Materials Inc. will post 14.26 EPS for the current year. Eagle Materials Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, April 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 15th will be issued a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.41%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 14th. Eagle Materialss dividend payout ratio is presently 7.06%. Insider Activity In other news, CFO Dale Craig Kesler sold 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $215.60, for a total value of $1,078,000.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 62,610 shares in the company, valued at $13,498,716. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, CFO Dale Craig Kesler sold 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $215.60, for a total value of $1,078,000.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 62,610 shares in the company, valued at $13,498,716. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director David B. Powers sold 3,347 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $240.52, for a total value of $805,020.44. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 655 shares in the company, valued at approximately $157,540.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 17,204 shares of company stock valued at $3,806,862. Company insiders own 1.70% of the companys stock. About Eagle Materials (Free Report) Eagle Materials Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells heavy construction materials and light building materials in the United States. It operates in four segments: Cement, Concrete and Aggregates, Gypsum Wallboard, and Recycled Paperboard. The company engages in the mining of limestone for the manufacture, production, distribution, and sale of Portland cement; grinding and sale of slag; and mining of gypsum for the manufacture and sale of gypsum wallboards used to finish the interior walls and ceilings in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Eagle Materials Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eagle Materials and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT Free Report) by 5.7% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 149,158 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 8,997 shares during the quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC owned about 0.08% of Textron worth $11,655,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in shares of Textron by 27.7% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 4,596,887 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $324,678,000 after purchasing an additional 997,119 shares in the last quarter. Virginia Retirement Systems ET AL bought a new position in Textron during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $64,463,000. Man Group plc bought a new position in Textron during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $64,467,000. Swiss National Bank bought a new position in Textron during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $50,696,000. Finally, BlackRock Inc. raised its position in Textron by 2.9% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 18,231,026 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,287,657,000 after purchasing an additional 519,468 shares during the last quarter. 85.92% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Textron alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes TXT has been the subject of several research reports. Susquehanna reissued a positive rating on shares of Textron in a research report on Friday, October 27th. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating and issued a $98.00 price target on shares of Textron in a research note on Tuesday, January 2nd. StockNews.com upgraded Textron from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Citigroup upped their price target on Textron from $102.00 to $104.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Finally, UBS Group upped their price target on Textron from $77.00 to $81.00 and gave the stock a sell rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Textron has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $87.50. Textron Stock Up 0.1 % TXT traded up $0.10 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $84.68. 50,790 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,210,436. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $82.00 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $78.73. The company has a current ratio of 1.92, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. Textron Inc. has a 12-month low of $61.27 and a 12-month high of $88.40. The stock has a market capitalization of $16.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.51, a PEG ratio of 1.16 and a beta of 1.29. Textron (NYSE:TXT Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The aerospace company reported $1.60 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.53 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $3.89 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.97 billion. Textron had a return on equity of 16.05% and a net margin of 6.73%. The companys revenue was up 7.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.07 EPS. Analysts predict that Textron Inc. will post 6.27 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Textron Profile (Free Report) Textron Inc operates in the aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses worldwide. It operates through six segments: Textron Aviation, Bell, Textron Systems, Industrial, Textron eAviation, and Finance. The Textron Aviation segment manufactures, sells, and services business jets, turboprop and piston engine aircraft, and military trainer and defense aircraft; and offers maintenance, inspection, and repair services, as well as sells commercial parts. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TXT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Textron Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Textron and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Coeur Mining, Inc. (NYSE:CDE Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the seven ratings firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and five have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $3.75. Several analysts have recently weighed in on CDE shares. BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating and issued a $2.75 price objective on shares of Coeur Mining in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Raymond James reduced their target price on Coeur Mining from $4.25 to $3.50 and set a market perform rating for the company in a report on Friday, November 10th. Finally, National Bank Financial reaffirmed an outperform spec market weight rating on shares of Coeur Mining in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Get Coeur Mining alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on Coeur Mining Institutional Investors Weigh In On Coeur Mining Coeur Mining Trading Down 0.4 % Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. acquired a new stake in Coeur Mining during the 4th quarter worth about $33,000. Alberta Investment Management Corp acquired a new stake in Coeur Mining during the 2nd quarter worth about $29,000. US Bancorp DE boosted its position in Coeur Mining by 1,742.5% during the 4th quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 10,355 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 9,793 shares during the period. First Trust Advisors LP acquired a new stake in Coeur Mining during the 4th quarter worth about $35,000. Finally, Point72 Middle East FZE acquired a new stake in Coeur Mining during the 4th quarter worth about $36,000. 61.55% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Shares of Coeur Mining stock opened at $2.62 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.41, a current ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. The firm has a market cap of $1.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -37.43 and a beta of 1.79. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $2.93 and a 200-day simple moving average of $2.64. Coeur Mining has a fifty-two week low of $2.00 and a fifty-two week high of $4.55. About Coeur Mining (Get Free Report Coeur Mining, Inc explores for precious metals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It primarily explores for gold, silver, zinc, and lead properties. The company holds 100% interests in the Palmarejo gold and silver mine covering an area of approximately 67,279 net acres located in the State of Chihuahua in Northern Mexico; the Rochester silver and gold mine that covers an area of approximately 43,441net acres situated in northwestern Nevada; the Kensington gold mine comprising 3,972 net acres located to the north of Juneau, Alaska; the Wharf gold mine covering an area of approximately 3,243 net acres situated in the northern Black Hills of western South Dakota; and the Silvertip silver-zinc-lead mine comprising 97,298 net acres located in northern British Columbia, Canada. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Coeur Mining Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Coeur Mining and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. lessened its position in The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:THG Free Report) by 0.4% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 716,054 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 2,692 shares during the period. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. owned 2.00% of The Hanover Insurance Group worth $79,468,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Advisors Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of The Hanover Insurance Group by 129.8% in the 4th quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 216 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 122 shares during the period. Covestor Ltd lifted its position in The Hanover Insurance Group by 35.4% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 520 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $78,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares during the period. Quantbot Technologies LP lifted its position in The Hanover Insurance Group by 45.7% during the 1st quarter. Quantbot Technologies LP now owns 542 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $81,000 after acquiring an additional 170 shares during the period. Chilton Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in The Hanover Insurance Group during the 1st quarter valued at about $73,000. Finally, Signaturefd LLC lifted its position in The Hanover Insurance Group by 108.1% during the 2nd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 770 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $87,000 after acquiring an additional 400 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 84.89% of the companys stock. Get The Hanover Insurance Group alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at The Hanover Insurance Group In other The Hanover Insurance Group news, SVP Warren E. Barnes sold 500 shares of The Hanover Insurance Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $131.14, for a total transaction of $65,570.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 3,612 shares of the companys stock, valued at $473,677.68. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 2.50% of the companys stock. The Hanover Insurance Group Price Performance The Hanover Insurance Group Increases Dividend NYSE:THG traded down $0.53 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $133.79. 14,695 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 154,172. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32. The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. has a 1 year low of $103.82 and a 1 year high of $142.40. The company has a market cap of $4.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 142.90 and a beta of 0.68. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $127.06 and a 200 day moving average price of $118.67. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 15th were issued a dividend of $0.85 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, December 14th. This represents a $3.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.54%. This is an increase from The Hanover Insurance Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.81. The Hanover Insurance Groups payout ratio is currently 361.71%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research analysts recently issued reports on THG shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their price target on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group from $124.00 to $137.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. StockNews.com raised shares of The Hanover Insurance Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. Piper Sandler lifted their price target on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group from $143.00 to $147.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 12th. Finally, Oppenheimer lifted their target price on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group from $135.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued 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 target price of $140.00. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on The Hanover Insurance Group The Hanover Insurance Group Company Profile (Free Report) The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides various property and casualty insurance products and services in the United States. The company operates through four segments: Core Commercial, Specialty, Personal Lines, and Other. The Commercial Lines segment offers commercial multiple peril, commercial automobile, workers' compensation, and other commercial lines coverage. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding THG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:THG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for The Hanover Insurance Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Hanover Insurance Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Atrium Mortgage Investment (TSE:AI Get Free Report) received a C$13.42 target price from stock analysts at Fundamental Research in a report released on Wednesday, BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has a buy rating on the stock. Fundamental Researchs target price indicates a potential upside of 21.01% from the stocks current price. Other equities analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. TD Securities decreased their price target on shares of Atrium Mortgage Investment from C$13.00 to C$12.50 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, November 16th. Laurentian cut shares of Atrium Mortgage Investment from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a C$13.00 target price for the company. in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Get Atrium Mortgage Investment alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on Atrium Mortgage Investment Atrium Mortgage Investment Stock Up 0.2 % Atrium Mortgage Investment Company Profile TSE AI traded up C$0.02 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching C$11.09. 33,734 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 30,991. The companys 50-day moving average is C$10.82 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$10.74. Atrium Mortgage Investment has a one year low of C$9.76 and a one year high of C$12.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 74.31, a quick ratio of 102.54 and a current ratio of 104.21. The company has a market capitalization of C$486.96 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.64 and a beta of 1.21. (Get Free Report) Atrium Mortgage Investment Corporation, a non-bank lender, provides residential and commercial mortgages services in Canada. The company offers various types of mortgage loans, such as land and development financing, construction and mezzanine financing, and commercial term and bridge financing services for residential, multi-residential, and commercial real properties. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Atrium Mortgage Investment Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Atrium Mortgage Investment and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Global Alpha Capital Management Ltd. boosted its stake in Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ORA Free Report) by 6.4% during the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 2,117,339 shares of the energy companys stock after buying an additional 127,149 shares during the period. Ormat Technologies accounts for about 15.0% of Global Alpha Capital Management Ltd.s portfolio, making the stock its largest position. Global Alpha Capital Management Ltd.s holdings in Ormat Technologies were worth $149,232,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Creative Planning grew its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 2.1% in the 2nd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 5,429 shares of the energy companys stock worth $425,000 after buying an additional 111 shares during the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp grew its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 4.4% in the 4th quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 3,097 shares of the energy companys stock worth $268,000 after buying an additional 131 shares during the last quarter. Toroso Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 15.8% in the 3rd quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 1,065 shares of the energy companys stock worth $91,000 after buying an additional 145 shares during the last quarter. Mission Wealth Management LP grew its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 1.3% in the 2nd quarter. Mission Wealth Management LP now owns 11,093 shares of the energy companys stock worth $893,000 after buying an additional 147 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FMR LLC grew its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 13.0% in the 2nd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 1,465 shares of the energy companys stock worth $115,000 after buying an additional 169 shares during the last quarter. 88.24% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Ormat Technologies alerts: Ormat Technologies Stock Down 0.1 % Ormat Technologies stock traded down $0.08 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $66.76. The company had a trading volume of 149,612 shares, compared to its average volume of 429,876. The company has a current ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $70.02 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $69.99. Ormat Technologies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $58.73 and a 12 month high of $90.95. The company has a market capitalization of $4.03 billion, a PE ratio of 36.73, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.30 and a beta of 0.48. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on ORA shares. Barclays cut their price objective on Ormat Technologies from $82.00 to $75.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Oppenheimer dropped their price target on Ormat Technologies from $84.00 to $83.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, January 19th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $87.00. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Ormat Technologies Ormat Technologies Profile (Free Report) Ormat Technologies, Inc engages in the geothermal and recovered energy power business in the United States, Indonesia, Kenya, Turkey, Chile, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Ethiopia, New Zealand, Honduras, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Electricity, Product, and Energy Storage. The Electricity segment develops, builds, owns, and operates geothermal, solar photovoltaic, and recovered energy-based power plants; and sells electricity. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ORA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ORA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Ormat Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ormat Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Guardian Capital LP boosted its stake in Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report) by 49.8% during the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 26,766 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 8,900 shares during the quarter. Guardian Capital LPs holdings in Duke Energy were worth $2,362,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in shares of Duke Energy during the 1st quarter worth $40,000. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 1.2% during the 1st quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 47,250 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $5,276,000 after acquiring an additional 581 shares during the period. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Duke Energy by 29.5% in the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 9,751 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,089,000 after buying an additional 2,223 shares during the period. Covestor Ltd raised its holdings in Duke Energy by 447.8% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,260 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $141,000 after buying an additional 1,030 shares during the period. Finally, Mather Group LLC. raised its holdings in Duke Energy by 5.2% in the 1st quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 6,505 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $726,000 after buying an additional 322 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 63.68% of the companys stock. Get Duke Energy alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several analysts recently issued reports on the stock. KeyCorp boosted their price objective on shares of Duke Energy from $106.00 to $107.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, January 4th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on shares of Duke Energy from $103.00 to $100.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, February 9th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of Duke Energy from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 21st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Duke Energy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Duke Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, November 3rd. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $100.00. Insider Activity at Duke Energy In related news, EVP Louis E. Renjel sold 3,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.57, for a total value of $277,710.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 14,213 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,315,697.41. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 0.11% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Duke Energy Stock Up 1.2 % Shares of Duke Energy stock traded up $1.06 on Wednesday, reaching $93.00. 794,205 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,045,344. Duke Energy Co. has a 1-year low of $83.06 and a 1-year high of $100.39. The company has a market cap of $71.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.91, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.92 and a beta of 0.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.49. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $96.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $92.30. Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The utilities provider reported $1.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.53 by ($0.02). The business had revenue of $7.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.24 billion. Duke Energy had a net margin of 9.78% and a return on equity of 8.93%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.11 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Duke Energy Co. will post 5.97 EPS for the current year. Duke Energy Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 18th. Investors of record on Friday, February 16th will be issued a $1.025 dividend. This represents a $4.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.41%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 15th. Duke Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 115.49%. Duke Energy Profile (Free Report) Duke Energy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Electric Utilities and Infrastructure (EU&I) and Gas Utilities and Infrastructure (GU&I). The EU&I segment generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity in the Carolinas, Florida, and the Midwest; and uses coal, hydroelectric, natural gas, oil, solar and wind sources, renewables, and nuclear fuel to generate electricity. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DUK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Duke Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Duke Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund increased its position in Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF (NYSEARCA:RYT Free Report) by 900.0% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 70,000 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 63,000 shares during the quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund owned approximately 0.07% of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF worth $19,741,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Meitav Investment House Ltd. bought a new position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF during the second quarter valued at $108,000. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF by 1,146.2% during the 3rd quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 486 shares of the companys stock worth $137,000 after buying an additional 447 shares during the period. Rocky Mountain Advisers LLC grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF by 900.0% during the 3rd quarter. Rocky Mountain Advisers LLC now owns 500 shares of the companys stock worth $141,000 after buying an additional 450 shares during the period. Money Concepts Capital Corp grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF by 97.4% in the 4th quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp now owns 602 shares of the companys stock valued at $146,000 after purchasing an additional 297 shares during the period. Finally, Optimum Investment Advisors grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF by 900.0% in the 3rd quarter. Optimum Investment Advisors now owns 600 shares of the companys stock valued at $169,000 after purchasing an additional 540 shares during the period. Get Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF alerts: Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF Stock Down 0.9 % Shares of RYT traded down $0.30 on Wednesday, hitting $33.54. The companys stock had a trading volume of 334,510 shares, compared to its average volume of 79,542. Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF has a fifty-two week low of $213.47 and a fifty-two week high of $286.56. The firms fifty day moving average price is $42.70 and its 200-day moving average price is $37.23. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.16 and a beta of 1.18. About Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF The Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF (RYT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in information technology equity. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of S&P 500 technology companies. RYT was launched on Nov 1, 2006 and is managed by Invesco. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Technology ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund decreased its position in shares of ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE:ZTO Free Report) by 34.2% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 923,500 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 479,800 shares during the quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund owned about 0.15% of ZTO Express (Cayman) worth $22,321,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of ZTO. Captrust Financial Advisors purchased a new position in shares of ZTO Express (Cayman) during the 2nd quarter valued at $36,000. Headlands Technologies LLC bought a new position in shares of ZTO Express (Cayman) during the 2nd quarter valued at about $49,000. Huntington National Bank boosted its holdings in ZTO Express (Cayman) by 22.4% during the 2nd quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 2,134 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $54,000 after acquiring an additional 391 shares during the period. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. boosted its holdings in ZTO Express (Cayman) by 26.2% during the 4th quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 2,248 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $61,000 after acquiring an additional 466 shares during the period. Finally, Janiczek Wealth Management LLC lifted its holdings in ZTO Express (Cayman) by 34.3% in the 3rd quarter. Janiczek Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,562 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $86,000 after buying an additional 909 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 41.68% of the companys stock. Get ZTO Express (Cayman) alerts: ZTO Express (Cayman) Price Performance Shares of ZTO Express (Cayman) stock traded up $0.12 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $18.97. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,245,412 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,478,564. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $18.68 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $22.09. ZTO Express has a 12-month low of $15.90 and a 12-month high of $30.05. The company has a market cap of $11.51 billion, a PE ratio of 12.65, a PEG ratio of 0.66 and a beta of -0.07. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a quick ratio of 1.17 and a current ratio of 1.17. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Bank of America cut ZTO Express (Cayman) from a buy rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price objective for the stock from $34.00 to $28.00 in a report on Tuesday, November 7th. StockNews.com cut ZTO Express (Cayman) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $33.40. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on ZTO ZTO Express (Cayman) Company Profile (Free Report) ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc provides express delivery and other value-added logistics services in the People's Republic of China. It offers freight forwarding services; and delivery services for e-commerce and traditional merchants, and other express service users. The company was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Shanghai, the People's Republic of China. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ZTO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE:ZTO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for ZTO Express (Cayman) Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ZTO Express (Cayman) and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco Ltd. raised its stake in NiSource Inc. (NYSE:NI Free Report) by 4.2% during the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 8,101,773 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 326,999 shares during the quarter. Invesco Ltd.s holdings in NiSource were worth $199,952,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of NiSource by 10.9% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 52,613,623 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,673,113,000 after buying an additional 5,153,843 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its holdings in shares of NiSource by 8.9% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 24,192,844 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $769,332,000 after buying an additional 1,970,696 shares during the last quarter. Jennison Associates LLC boosted its stake in shares of NiSource by 0.3% in the 3rd quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 13,111,122 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $323,582,000 after purchasing an additional 39,374 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of NiSource by 4.3% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 8,980,929 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $244,986,000 after purchasing an additional 371,894 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Millennium Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of NiSource by 256.7% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 7,704,805 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $211,266,000 after purchasing an additional 5,544,787 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 94.91% of the companys stock. Get NiSource alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at NiSource In other NiSource news, Director Michael E. Jesanis sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $26.24, for a total transaction of $131,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 48,070 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,261,356.80. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.24% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. NiSource Trading Up 0.5 % Shares of NI opened at $26.02 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $10.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.46, a PEG ratio of 2.12 and a beta of 0.49. The company has a quick ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 0.41 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.66. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $26.14 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $26.05. NiSource Inc. has a twelve month low of $22.86 and a twelve month high of $28.95. NiSource (NYSE:NI Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 21st. The utilities provider reported $0.53 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.52 by $0.01. NiSource had a net margin of 12.46% and a return on equity of 11.14%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.50 earnings per share. On average, research analysts anticipate that NiSource Inc. will post 1.59 EPS for the current year. NiSource Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, February 20th. Shareholders of record on Monday, February 5th were given a dividend of $0.265 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, February 2nd. This represents a $1.06 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.07%. This is a boost from NiSources previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. NiSources dividend payout ratio is presently 71.14%. Analyst Ratings Changes NI has been the subject of a number of research reports. Barclays initiated coverage on shares of NiSource in a research note on Monday, January 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $28.00 price objective for the company. StockNews.com cut shares of NiSource from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Friday, February 16th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, NiSource currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $28.86. View Our Latest Stock Report on NiSource NiSource Company Profile (Free Report) NiSource Inc, an energy holding company, operates as a regulated natural gas and electric utility company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations. The company distributes natural gas to approximately 859,000 customers in northern Indiana, as well as approximately 2.4 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for NiSource Inc. (NYSE:NI Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for NiSource Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NiSource and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LPL Financial LLC increased its holdings in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF (NYSEARCA:XLG Free Report) by 1,154.0% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,598,014 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 4,231,355 shares during the quarter. LPL Financial LLC owned approximately 6.69% of Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF worth $156,149,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in XLG. Fortune 45 LLC grew its position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF by 14.2% during the first quarter. Fortune 45 LLC now owns 16,546 shares of the companys stock worth $5,815,000 after purchasing an additional 2,056 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF by 210.0% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 14,215 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,996,000 after buying an additional 9,629 shares in the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. grew its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF by 4.6% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 1,631 shares of the companys stock valued at $573,000 after buying an additional 71 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can grew its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF by 71.0% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 171 shares of the companys stock valued at $61,000 after buying an additional 71 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers grew its holdings in Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF by 2.2% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 1,683 shares of the companys stock valued at $592,000 after buying an additional 37 shares in the last quarter. Get Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF alerts: Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF Stock Down 0.3 % NYSEARCA XLG traded down $0.13 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $40.06. 206,609 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,044,082. The company has a market capitalization of $2.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.22 and a beta of 1.00. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $38.72 and a 200-day simple moving average of $36.42. Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF has a 12-month low of $28.29 and a 12-month high of $41.02. About Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF Guggenheim Russell Top 50 Mega Cap ETF (the Fund), formerly Rydex Russell Top 50 ETF, seeks to replicate as closely as possible the performance of the Russell Top 50 Index (the Index). The Index is an unmanaged capitalization-weighted index consisting of the 50 largest companies in the Russell 3000 Index. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco S&P 500 Top 50 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mariner LLC lifted its stake in Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report) by 5.0% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 994,784 shares of the utilities providers stock after buying an additional 47,815 shares during the period. Mariner LLC owned approximately 0.13% of Duke Energy worth $87,799,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in DUK. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC lifted its stake in Duke Energy by 28.6% during the third quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC now owns 4,023 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $355,000 after purchasing an additional 894 shares during the last quarter. Adviser Investments LLC bought a new stake in Duke Energy during the third quarter worth $304,000. Guggenheim Capital LLC lifted its stake in Duke Energy by 13.1% during the second quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 191,379 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $17,174,000 after purchasing an additional 22,100 shares during the last quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Duke Energy by 10.0% during the third quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,397 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $212,000 after purchasing an additional 217 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Equitable Trust Co. lifted its stake in Duke Energy by 6.5% during the third quarter. Equitable Trust Co. now owns 17,457 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,541,000 after purchasing an additional 1,058 shares during the last quarter. 63.68% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Duke Energy alerts: Insider Transactions at Duke Energy In other news, EVP Louis E. Renjel sold 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.57, for a total transaction of $277,710.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 14,213 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,315,697.41. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities research analysts have weighed in on DUK shares. Evercore ISI upgraded Duke Energy from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and upped their target price for the stock from $90.00 to $108.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on Duke Energy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. KeyCorp increased their price target on Duke Energy from $106.00 to $107.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on Duke Energy from $101.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Monday, February 12th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded Duke Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, November 3rd. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $100.00. Read Our Latest Report on Duke Energy Duke Energy Trading Up 1.4 % NYSE DUK traded up $1.31 on Wednesday, reaching $93.25. The company had a trading volume of 934,274 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,048,406. The firm has a market cap of $71.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.91, a P/E/G ratio of 2.92 and a beta of 0.48. Duke Energy Co. has a fifty-two week low of $83.06 and a fifty-two week high of $100.39. The business has a 50 day moving average of $96.00 and a two-hundred day moving average of $92.30. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.49. Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The utilities provider reported $1.51 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.53 by ($0.02). Duke Energy had a return on equity of 8.93% and a net margin of 9.78%. The business had revenue of $7.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.24 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.11 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 1.9% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts forecast that Duke Energy Co. will post 5.97 EPS for the current year. Duke Energy Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 18th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th will be given a dividend of $1.025 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 15th. This represents a $4.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.40%. Duke Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 115.49%. About Duke Energy (Free Report) Duke Energy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Electric Utilities and Infrastructure (EU&I) and Gas Utilities and Infrastructure (GU&I). The EU&I segment generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity in the Carolinas, Florida, and the Midwest; and uses coal, hydroelectric, natural gas, oil, solar and wind sources, renewables, and nuclear fuel to generate electricity. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DUK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Duke Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Duke Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund lowered its stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Free Report) by 67.1% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 196,000 shares of the companys stock after selling 400,000 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Funds holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $20,178,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Ruedi Wealth Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 180.2% in the third quarter. Ruedi Wealth Management Inc. now owns 311 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares in the last quarter. TFO Wealth Partners LLC increased its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 108.1% in the third quarter. TFO Wealth Partners LLC now owns 464 shares of the companys stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 241 shares in the last quarter. Ameliora Wealth Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the third quarter worth $50,000. VitalStone Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the second quarter worth $56,000. Finally, Legacy Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the third quarter worth $73,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 74.59% of the companys stock. Get Merck & Co. Inc. alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, February 2nd. TheStreet raised shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a c+ rating to a b rating in a report on Monday, November 27th. UBS Group raised their price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $135.00 to $148.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. StockNews.com raised shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $115.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, October 27th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, sixteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Merck & Co., Inc. currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $129.68. Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Performance Shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock traded down $0.19 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $127.18. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,450,175 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,664,441. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $117.64 and its 200 day simple moving average is $109.52. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 1.12 and a current ratio of 1.38. Merck & Co., Inc. has a one year low of $99.14 and a one year high of $129.29. The stock has a market cap of $322.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 910.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 0.38. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The company reported $0.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.09) by $0.12. Merck & Co., Inc. had a net margin of 0.61% and a return on equity of 9.07%. The company had revenue of $14.63 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $14.49 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.62 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts expect that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 8.6 EPS for the current fiscal year. Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, April 5th. Investors of record on Friday, March 15th will be given a $0.77 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 14th. This represents a $3.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.42%. Merck & Co., Inc.s dividend payout ratio is presently 2,200.00%. Insider Activity at Merck & Co., Inc. In related news, insider Joseph Romanelli sold 1,000 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $124.89, for a total value of $124,890.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 19,569 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,443,972.41. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, insider Joseph Romanelli sold 1,000 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $124.89, for a total value of $124,890.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 19,569 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,443,972.41. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Steven Mizell sold 50,694 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $126.65, for a total transaction of $6,420,395.10. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 23,619 shares in the company, valued at $2,991,346.35. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Merck & Co., Inc. Profile (Free Report) Merck & Co, Inc operates as a healthcare company worldwide. It operates through two segments, Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. The Pharmaceutical segment offers human health pharmaceutical products in the areas of oncology, hospital acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes, as well as vaccine products, such as preventive pediatric, adolescent, and adult vaccines. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MRK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board lessened its position in AMETEK, Inc. (NYSE:AME Free Report) by 8.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 20,331 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 1,890 shares during the quarter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Boards holdings in AMETEK were worth $3,004,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC lifted its position in shares of AMETEK by 11.6% in the third quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 3,637 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $537,000 after acquiring an additional 378 shares in the last quarter. Keybank National Association OH increased its holdings in shares of AMETEK by 48.9% in the second quarter. Keybank National Association OH now owns 4,649 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $753,000 after purchasing an additional 1,527 shares during the last quarter. Vestmark Advisory Solutions Inc. increased its holdings in shares of AMETEK by 2.5% in the second quarter. Vestmark Advisory Solutions Inc. now owns 3,152 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $510,000 after purchasing an additional 78 shares during the last quarter. Whittier Trust Co. increased its holdings in shares of AMETEK by 9.0% in the third quarter. Whittier Trust Co. now owns 3,117 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $461,000 after purchasing an additional 258 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Concentric Capital Strategies LP acquired a new stake in shares of AMETEK in the second quarter valued at approximately $7,651,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 85.70% of the companys stock. Get AMETEK alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms recently commented on AME. Royal Bank of Canada cut their price target on AMETEK from $192.00 to $188.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. StockNews.com cut AMETEK from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, February 9th. TD Cowen cut AMETEK from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and cut their target price for the stock from $165.00 to $160.00 in a research note on Monday, November 27th. Finally, KeyCorp raised their target price on AMETEK from $176.00 to $182.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $174.25. Insider Activity at AMETEK In related news, CFO William Joseph Burke sold 5,973 shares of AMETEK stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $168.90, for a total value of $1,008,839.70. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 101,709 shares in the company, valued at $17,178,650.10. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.72% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. AMETEK Trading Up 0.0 % Shares of AME traded up $0.06 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $174.87. 201,075 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,007,606. AMETEK, Inc. has a 52-week low of $131.52 and a 52-week high of $175.66. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $165.03 and a 200 day simple moving average of $156.72. The firm has a market cap of $40.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.85, a P/E/G ratio of 2.77 and a beta of 1.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 0.59 and a current ratio of 0.98. AMETEK (NYSE:AME Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The technology company reported $1.68 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.62 by $0.06. AMETEK had a return on equity of 17.96% and a net margin of 19.91%. The business had revenue of $1.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.73 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.52 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 6.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts anticipate that AMETEK, Inc. will post 6.83 EPS for the current fiscal year. AMETEK Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Investors of record on Friday, March 8th will be issued a $0.28 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 7th. This is a positive change from AMETEKs previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. This represents a $1.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.64%. AMETEKs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 17.64%. About AMETEK (Free Report) AMETEK, Inc manufactures and sells electronic instruments and electromechanical devices in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. It operates in two segments, Electronic Instruments (EIG) and Electromechanical (EMG). The company's EIG segment offers advanced instruments for the process, aerospace, power, and industrial markets; process and analytical instruments for the oil and gas, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, semiconductor, automation, and food and beverage industries; and instruments to the laboratory equipment, ultra-precision manufacturing, medical, and test and measurement markets.Its EMG segment offers engineered electrical connectors and electronics packaging to protect sensitive devices and mission-critical electronics; precision motion control products for data storage, medical devices, business equipment, automation, and other applications; high-purity powdered metals, strips and foils, specialty clad metals, and metal matrix composites; motor-blower systems and heat exchangers for use in thermal management, military, commercial aircraft, and military ground vehicles; and motors for use in commercial appliances, fitness equipment, food and beverage machines, hydraulic pumps, and industrial blowers. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AME? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for AMETEK, Inc. (NYSE:AME Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for AMETEK Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AMETEK and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RingCentral (NYSE:RNG Get Free Report) had its price objective reduced by equities research analysts at Needham & Company LLC from $46.00 to $42.00 in a note issued to investors on Wednesday, Benzinga reports. The brokerage presently has a buy rating on the software makers stock. Needham & Company LLCs price objective would suggest a potential upside of 36.14% from the stocks previous close. A number of other equities research analysts also recently issued reports on RNG. StockNews.com raised shares of RingCentral from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 11th. Piper Sandler upped their price objective on shares of RingCentral from $32.00 to $34.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Raymond James reduced their price objective on shares of RingCentral from $60.00 to $50.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, November 7th. William Blair reiterated an outperform rating on shares of RingCentral in a research note on Tuesday, November 7th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of RingCentral from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their target price for the company from $40.00 to $35.00 in a research note on Tuesday, December 12th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, RingCentral currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $40.06. Get RingCentral alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on RNG RingCentral Trading Up 0.7 % Insider Buying and Selling at RingCentral RNG opened at $30.85 on Wednesday. RingCentral has a 1-year low of $25.08 and a 1-year high of $43.28. The company has a market cap of $2.89 billion, a P/E ratio of -7.31, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 37.32 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $33.43 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $30.86. In other RingCentral news, CFO Sonalee Elizabeth Parekh sold 51,962 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.93, for a total transaction of $1,555,222.66. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 216,223 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,471,554.39. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 6.76% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On RingCentral Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of RNG. Readystate Asset Management LP lifted its position in RingCentral by 68.9% during the 4th quarter. Readystate Asset Management LP now owns 228,810 shares of the software makers stock valued at $7,768,000 after acquiring an additional 93,361 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its stake in RingCentral by 166.0% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 131,044 shares of the software makers stock valued at $4,450,000 after purchasing an additional 81,787 shares in the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio increased its stake in RingCentral by 2.6% during the 4th quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 36,746 shares of the software makers stock valued at $1,248,000 after purchasing an additional 918 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in RingCentral by 3.8% during the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 10,371,224 shares of the software makers stock valued at $352,103,000 after purchasing an additional 382,343 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Voloridge Investment Management LLC increased its stake in RingCentral by 41.8% during the 4th quarter. Voloridge Investment Management LLC now owns 910,022 shares of the software makers stock valued at $30,895,000 after purchasing an additional 268,306 shares in the last quarter. 84.48% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. RingCentral Company Profile (Get Free Report) RingCentral, Inc provides cloud communications, video meetings, collaboration, and contact center software-as-a-service solutions worldwide. The company's products include RingCentral Message Video Phone (MVP) that provides a unified experience for communication and collaboration across multiple modes, including HD voice, video, SMS, messaging and collaboration, conferencing, online meetings, and fax; RingCentral Contact Center, a collaborative contact center solution that delivers AI powered omni-channel and workforce engagement solution with integrated RingCentral MVP; and RingCentral Engage Digital, a digital customer engagement platform that allows enterprises to interact with their customers. See Also Receive News & Ratings for RingCentral Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RingCentral and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rodgers Brothers Inc. grew its stake in Bank of Montreal (NYSE:BMO Free Report) (TSE:BMO) by 5.8% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 10,975 shares of the banks stock after buying an additional 600 shares during the period. Rodgers Brothers Inc.s holdings in Bank of Montreal were worth $926,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. LPL Financial LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bank of Montreal by 1.8% in the 3rd quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 57,865 shares of the banks stock worth $4,882,000 after acquiring an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bank of Montreal by 1.1% in the 3rd quarter. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC now owns 40,395 shares of the banks stock worth $3,408,000 after acquiring an additional 425 shares during the last quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Bank of Montreal by 36,666.7% in the 3rd quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 15,442 shares of the banks stock worth $1,308,000 after acquiring an additional 15,400 shares during the last quarter. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd lifted its holdings in shares of Bank of Montreal by 4.0% in the 3rd quarter. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd now owns 5,200 shares of the banks stock worth $439,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rathbones Group PLC raised its holdings in Bank of Montreal by 69.4% during the 3rd quarter. Rathbones Group PLC now owns 51,736 shares of the banks stock valued at $4,384,000 after buying an additional 21,195 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 43.89% of the companys stock. Get Bank of Montreal alerts: Bank of Montreal Stock Down 0.2 % Shares of NYSE:BMO traded down $0.23 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $94.37. The companys stock had a trading volume of 49,542 shares, compared to its average volume of 647,074. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $95.23 and a 200-day moving average of $87.14. The firm has a market capitalization of $68.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.63, a PEG ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 1.15. The company has a quick ratio of 0.96, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. Bank of Montreal has a 12-month low of $73.98 and a 12-month high of $100.12. Bank of Montreal Increases Dividend Bank of Montreal ( NYSE:BMO Get Free Report ) (TSE:BMO) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, December 1st. The bank reported $2.07 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $2.07. The company had revenue of $6.16 billion for the quarter. Bank of Montreal had a net margin of 6.41% and a return on equity of 12.55%. On average, research analysts anticipate that Bank of Montreal will post 9.7 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, February 27th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, January 30th will be paid a dividend of $1.1137 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, January 29th. This represents a $4.45 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.72%. This is a boost from Bank of Montreals previous quarterly dividend of $1.11. Bank of Montreals dividend payout ratio is currently 103.59%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have commented on BMO shares. StockNews.com lowered shares of Bank of Montreal from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Bank of America upgraded shares of Bank of Montreal from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, December 18th. Finally, National Bank Financial raised shares of Bank of Montreal from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 20th. Read Our Latest Research Report on BMO Bank of Montreal Profile (Free Report) Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. It operates through Canadian P&C, U.S P&C, BMO Wealth Management, and BMO Capital Markets segments. The company's personal banking products and services include deposits, mortgages, home lending, consumer credit, small business lending, credit cards, cash management, financial and investment advice, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services comprise various of financing options and treasury and payment solutions, as well as risk management products. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of Montreal (NYSE:BMO Free Report) (TSE:BMO). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Montreal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Montreal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rodgers Brothers Inc. lifted its holdings in Valero Energy Co. (NYSE:VLO Free Report) by 1.4% during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 7,459 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after purchasing an additional 103 shares during the period. Rodgers Brothers Inc.s holdings in Valero Energy were worth $1,057,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Live Oak Investment Partners acquired a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Indiana Trust & Investment Management CO acquired a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Annis Gardner Whiting Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Quarry LP boosted its holdings in shares of Valero Energy by 1,676.9% in the 1st quarter. Quarry LP now owns 231 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 218 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Capital Advisors Group LLC. acquired a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $39,000. 77.07% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Valero Energy alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms recently weighed in on VLO. Citigroup began coverage on shares of Valero Energy in a research report on Wednesday, January 24th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Raymond James boosted their price objective on shares of Valero Energy from $154.00 to $155.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 26th. Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. cut shares of Valero Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their price objective for the stock from $150.00 to $130.00 in a research report on Monday, October 30th. Finally, Barclays increased their price target on Valero Energy from $146.00 to $149.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, January 29th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Valero Energy has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $153.62. Valero Energy Trading Up 1.2 % VLO stock traded up $1.63 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $136.66. The stock had a trading volume of 411,759 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,325,099. The firm has a market cap of $46.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.62 and a beta of 1.53. The company has a current ratio of 1.51, a quick ratio of 1.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. Valero Energy Co. has a 1-year low of $104.18 and a 1-year high of $152.20. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $133.58 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $132.00. Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The oil and gas company reported $3.55 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.95 by $0.60. Valero Energy had a net margin of 6.10% and a return on equity of 31.86%. The company had revenue of $35.41 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $34.76 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $8.45 EPS. The firms revenue was down 15.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Valero Energy Co. will post 14.35 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Valero Energy Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 4th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 1st will be paid a dividend of $1.07 per share. This represents a $4.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.13%. This is a boost from Valero Energys previous quarterly dividend of $1.02. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, January 31st. Valero Energys payout ratio is presently 17.31%. Valero Energy Company Profile (Free Report) Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol. The company produces California Reformulated Gasoline Blendstock for Oxygenate Blending and Conventional Blendstock for Oxygenate Blending gasolines, CARB diesel, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt; aromatics; and sulfur crude oils. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding VLO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Valero Energy Co. (NYSE:VLO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Valero Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Valero Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Co. (NYSE:WAB Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Wednesday, February 14th, Zacks reports. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a dividend of 0.20 per share by the transportation company on Friday, March 8th. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.60%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. This is an increase from Westinghouse Air Brake Technologiess previous quarterly dividend of $0.17. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies has increased its dividend by an average of 12.3% annually over the last three years and has raised its dividend every year for the last 2 years. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies has a dividend payout ratio of 9.0% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies to earn $7.41 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.68 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 9.2%. Get Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies alerts: Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Price Performance Shares of WAB opened at $134.39 on Wednesday. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies has a twelve month low of $91.89 and a twelve month high of $137.80. The company has a 50 day moving average of $129.16 and a 200-day moving average of $116.85. The stock has a market capitalization of $23.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.73, a P/E/G ratio of 1.54 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies ( NYSE:WAB Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 14th. The transportation company reported $1.54 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.58 by ($0.04). The business had revenue of $2.53 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.48 billion. Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies had a return on equity of 10.34% and a net margin of 8.42%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.30 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies will post 6.76 EPS for the current fiscal year. Several brokerages have recently commented on WAB. Bank of America upgraded Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $128.00 to $150.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 16th. Morgan Stanley assumed coverage on shares of Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies in a research note on Monday, January 8th. They issued an overweight rating and a $137.00 price target on the stock. Stephens boosted their price objective on Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies from $153.00 to $155.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Jefferies Financial Group raised Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating and upped their target price for the company from $115.00 to $150.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. Finally, Redburn Atlantic cut Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $135.00 price target for the company. in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $145.20. Get Our Latest Research Report on Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Insider Buying and Selling at Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies In other news, Director Brian Hehir sold 5,470 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.80, for a total value of $742,826.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 23,065 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,132,227. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies news, VP Kristine Kubacki sold 1,141 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.19, for a total value of $131,431.79. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 3,052 shares in the company, valued at approximately $351,559.88. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, Director Brian Hehir sold 5,470 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.80, for a total value of $742,826.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 23,065 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,132,227. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 1.20% of the companys stock. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Cibc World Markets Corp bought a new position in Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies in the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,092,000. Eudaimonia Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies during the 1st quarter valued at $366,000. Neuberger Berman Group LLC lifted its holdings in Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies by 2,233.1% during the 1st quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC now owns 245,277 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $23,589,000 after purchasing an additional 234,764 shares in the last quarter. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. bought a new position in Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies in the 4th quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, State of Tennessee Treasury Department grew its holdings in Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies by 13.8% during the 1st quarter. State of Tennessee Treasury Department now owns 115,233 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $11,645,000 after buying an additional 13,949 shares in the last quarter. 90.52% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies (Get Free Report) Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides technology-based locomotives, equipment, systems, and services for the freight rail and passenger transit industries worldwide. It offers diesel-electric, battery, and liquid natural gas-powered locomotives; engines, electric motors, and propulsion systems; and marine and mining products. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Meghan Markle has apparently converted to Islam in a final defiant move to distance herself from the Windsor royal family. According to reports from Montecito, Markle will announce her conversion on a special Oprah show televised in April. Speaking to ABC News, Meghan revealed that she had finally found peace within herself and with Allah and was ready to explore this new chapter of her life. I want to instil love and peace into the world. From now on I will be known as Mehbooba, and Archie will be Abdullah, and Lilibet as Illiyeen. As for Harry, I will persuade him to convert to Islam as well. His new name I have already chosen for him will be Ekanag. Meghan Markles spokesman Omid Scobie, who is an Iranian Muslim, suggested the couple convert to Islam as a remembrance for the late Lady Diana, who was about to convert to Islam shortly before she tragically lost her life in a Paris car accident. Her boyfriend Dodi Fayed, the Egyptian-born film magnate, had introduced Lady Diana to the Islamic religion. Meghan Markle fans all over the social networks went wild at the news and reacted positively. On Twitter X many of the Sussex fans celebrated the news and congratulated Meghan on her spiritual awakening. One Twitter X user, Jolen34 said Gosh dayum! This is the best news I heard in ages. I am now going to join Islam and move to Saudi Arabia! The user received 350,000 likes for her comment. On Facebook, user Kiwi45 said: OMG! Meghan really did it. I cant wait till I see Harry wearing a towel on his head and carrying around a prayer mat. The comment received 450,000 likes in less than an hour. Story developing S&P 500 5,117.09 DOW 38,714.77 QQQ 438.72 3 Large-Cap Stocks Buying Back Shares Aggressively Grab Your Free Bitcoin Today! (Ad) Heres Why Bitcoin Miners Stopped Rising With Bitcoin Prices Netanyahu snaps back against growing US criticism after being accused of losing his way on Gaza Make This $3 Trade the Instant the Opening Bell Rings (Ad) Oil Prices Up Again, Should You Buy This Time? Stock market today: Wall Street rises ahead of highly anticipated Federal Reserve policy meeting I believe this could change your life (Ad) Kung Fu Panda 4 repeats at No. 1 on the box office charts From Frenchies to rescue cats, New York's trauma center for animals takes the most complex cases S&P 500 5,117.09 DOW 38,714.77 QQQ 438.72 3 Large-Cap Stocks Buying Back Shares Aggressively Grab Your Free Bitcoin Today! (Ad) Heres Why Bitcoin Miners Stopped Rising With Bitcoin Prices Netanyahu snaps back against growing US criticism after being accused of losing his way on Gaza Make This $3 Trade the Instant the Opening Bell Rings (Ad) Oil Prices Up Again, Should You Buy This Time? Stock market today: Wall Street rises ahead of highly anticipated Federal Reserve policy meeting I believe this could change your life (Ad) Kung Fu Panda 4 repeats at No. 1 on the box office charts From Frenchies to rescue cats, New York's trauma center for animals takes the most complex cases S&P 500 5,117.09 DOW 38,714.77 QQQ 438.72 3 Large-Cap Stocks Buying Back Shares Aggressively Grab Your Free Bitcoin Today! (Ad) Heres Why Bitcoin Miners Stopped Rising With Bitcoin Prices Netanyahu snaps back against growing US criticism after being accused of losing his way on Gaza Make This $3 Trade the Instant the Opening Bell Rings (Ad) Oil Prices Up Again, Should You Buy This Time? Stock market today: Wall Street rises ahead of highly anticipated Federal Reserve policy meeting I believe this could change your life (Ad) Kung Fu Panda 4 repeats at No. 1 on the box office charts From Frenchies to rescue cats, New York's trauma center for animals takes the most complex cases The international community has been jolted by recent reports suggesting that Iran has delivered hundreds of ballistic missiles to Russia. This development, if confirmed, represents a significant escalation in military cooperation between the two sanctioned nations and carries far-reaching implications for the ongoing war in Ukraine, regional security dynamics, and the global arms trade landscape. Get alerts: Unveiling the transfer: Sources, scope, and motivations News of the missile transfer emerged from multiple sources, including Iranian officials and individuals familiar with the matter, who spoke to reporters. The reports indicate that Iran has provided around 400 missiles, primarily from the Fateh-110 family, known for their short-range capabilities of between 300 and 700 kilometers. The missiles were reportedly transported by ship and plane via the Caspian Sea, highlighting the intricate logistics involved in such a large-scale transfer. While Iran has defended its right to export weapons to any country, the timing and recipient of this transfer raise concerns. The missiles arrive as Russia grapples with battlefield setbacks in Ukraine, prompting speculation that they are intended to bolster Moscows offensive capabilities. The deepening military ties between Iran and Russia, both facing Western sanctions, suggest a strategic alignment driven by shared geopolitical interests. Ripple effects: From Ukraine to the Middle East and beyond The potential consequences of this transfer are complex and far-reaching. In Ukraine, the influx of Iranian missiles could significantly alter the course of the war. These weapons could enable Russia to launch more long-range strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure and military targets, potentially intensifying the conflict and prolonging human suffering. Beyond the immediate impact on Ukraine, the transfer raises concerns about regional security ramifications. Irans growing influence and willingness to arm Russia could trigger arms races and heighten tensions in the already volatile Middle East. Additionally, the international community faces a delicate balancing act, navigating the potential need for further sanctions against Iran and Russia while avoiding measures that could further isolate these nations and complicate diplomatic efforts. The specter of nuclear non-proliferation also looms large. While the Fateh-110 missiles are not nuclear-capable, concerns exist that such a transfer could embolden Irans nuclear ambitions or erode trust in international non-proliferation efforts. The international community will likely scrutinize Irans compliance with relevant agreements in light of this development. Unanswered questions and the road ahead It is crucial to acknowledge that the missile transfer remains unconfirmed by either Iran or Russia. Further investigation and verification are essential to understand this developments full scope and implications. Additionally, ongoing discussions and analyses related to the transfer, such as those undertaken by the International Atomic Energy Agency, warrant close attention. As the situation unfolds, the world watches with bated breath. The potential consequences of Irans missile delivery to Russia are significant, impacting the trajectory of the Ukraine war, regional security dynamics, and the global arms trade landscape. Continued monitoring and analysis are paramount to navigating this complex situation and mitigating its potential negative ramifications. The missile transfer from Iran to Russia marks a potential turning point with far-reaching consequences. While the complete picture remains unclear, the implications for Ukraine, the Middle East, and the international order are undeniable. As the situation evolves, the international community must tread carefully, balancing the need for accountability with the complexities of diplomacy and the ever-present risk of further escalation. Only through rigorous investigation, responsible action, and a commitment to peaceful resolutions can the world navigate this critical juncture and work toward a more stable and secure future. Work on a proposed upgrade of the A5 road to Derry will start before the end of the year, the Stormont Infrastructure Minister has said. John ODowd was speaking following a significant funding announcement for the project by the Irish Government, describing the A5 as one of the most dangerous roads on this island. The A5 has been the subject of calls for improvement due to the high volume of fatal collisions on the route, which links the city of Derry with Aughnacloy in Co Tyrone, located close to the Irish border. A scheme to turn the A5 into a dual carriageway was first approved in 2007 but has been held up by legal proceedings and faced funding uncertainty. Since 2007, almost 50 people have died on the single-lane road, including three members of the same family in one collision. The Irish Government previously committed 400 million (467.9 million euro) to the A5 project in the 2006 St Andrews Agreement. However, it cut that to 75 million (87.7 million euro) during the financial crash. On Tuesday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced including 600 million euro (512.8 million) for the A5. Mr ODowd welcomed the move and said despite some remaining challenges he is confident work can start before the end of the year. I am currently studying the planning appeal commissions report, it is complex, it is comprehensive. I want to be assured that we have responded to all the issues contained within that report before I announce the commencement of the building of the A5, he said. My current deliberations are not around if we will build the A5, my current deliberations are on how we build the A5. Mr ODowd said he would appeal to those people behind the legal challenges to bring them to an end. This road is about improving road safety and about saving lives, so I appeal to those people to end their legal challenges. I would hope to see construction start on the A5 by the end of this calendar year. That is my intention as we move forward. Mr ODowd said further funding will come from the Stormont Executive, but added there is also a challenge for the UK Government, with the A5 mentioned in their UK connectivity report. He said he would like to see more than words but also finances coming from London. But I am confident that the A5 is going ahead. Its financially viable and it will be funded. Earlier, Niall McKenna, chair of the A5 Enough Is Enough campaign group, said it was very happy with the recommitment by the Irish Government to the funding. His group met with the Irish Government last summer, and said they felt confident after that meeting that a substantial figure would be announced. Unfortunately the process began in April 2007 when the scheme was initially approved, Mr McKenna said. It has been beset with legal problems for nearly 17 years, and unfortunately in those 17 years, 48 people have lost their lives on this road. But we think things are certainly moving in the right direction at the moment, and wed be hopeful that full approval for the scheme will be in the next couple of months. Another member of the campaign group, Brendan Hurl, said the A5 has previously been described as one of the most dangerous in Europe. It emerged in the public inquiry that an accident has been reported to police (on the A5) once every three days, he said. Too many lives have been lost on this road, too many families have been victims, and the important thing is to say about this road is the A5 is totally indiscriminate, it doesnt matter who you are, what you are, where youre from, what you work at, what background you come from, it will kill you regardless. SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan welcomed the funding as a watershed moment. Now that this funding has been secured we need to see the Executive and Minister ODowd follow suit with approval for this long-awaited project so that we can get work started before the end of the year, he said. I would like to pay tribute to the campaigners, many of them who have lost loved ones on this road, who have worked so hard in recent years, battering down the doors of governments right across this island to make the case for the A5. They know more than anyone the need for this redevelopment, but channelled their own grief into positive action so that nobody else would suffer the loss that they have felt. We have been a long time getting to this stage and what we need now from the minister is urgent clarity on the next steps. I believe today is a watershed moment in seeing the A5 delivered and look forward to seeing this project completed at last. First Minister Michelle ONeill has hailed the importance of shared education in bringing communities in Northern Ireland together. Ms ONeill was speaking as she and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly officially opened a new shared education campus in Limavady, County Derry. The 11 million campus includes Limavady High School and St Marys High School on the same site at Irish Green Street. Shared education involves pupils from separate schools and different backgrounds engaging in some joint classes and activities. Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly were joined by Education Minister Paul Givan and Northern Ireland Office minister Lord Caine as they toured the facilities at the two schools, including a new media studies suite, performance spaces and a new study and common rooms. Ms ONeill said it was a positive moment and hoped there would be more shared education sites in Northern Ireland in the future. She said: It speaks volumes in terms of the shared society that we are all trying to build. I want to commend the many, many years of work from both school communities to actually get us to this point today. She added: This absolutely goes to the crux of who we are as a society. We all have a shared history, but we equally have a shared future. I think the more of this shared education that happens across our society, it goes towards building a better future for us all. Ms Little-Pengelly said: We know that there has been a fantastic amount of work put in by many, many people to make this happen. This is a really great example of what sharing can do. Bringing people together, young people who are very proud of who they are, who have their own perspectives and their own identities coming together in a shared environment and working together for the good. This is an inspirational project. The project for the two adjacent schools to be joined in a shared campus was approved by the Department of Education in 2014. Eve Bremner, chief executive of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), said: The schools have a long history of sharing, and I commend them for driving this project forward. The new campus will enable pupils of all backgrounds and beliefs to come together and achieve their full potential and is a reflection of the schools commitment to inclusion, innovation and mutual respect. Mark Baker, chief executive at the Controlled Schools Support Council (CSSC), said: As we recognise the achievements of Limavady High School and St Marys High School and the difference shared education has made for generations of children and young people as well as the local Limavady community, it reinforces the need for a vision and strategy for education that includes everyone working together and all voices being listened to. Shared education provides the opportunity for pupils from different backgrounds to come together, forge new friendships, experiences and access to a broader range of learning opportunities. 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 accused of killing a pregnant woman in a crash in Co Fermanagh admitted to police she was drinking before getting behind the wheel, a court has heard. Emma Josephine Feely, 34, appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged with causing the death by dangerous driving of Valeria Amorim, 28, in an incident in Belleek on Monday night. Ms Amorim was six months pregnant. Both she and her unborn child died. The court heard that Ms Amorim was walking along the Boa Island Road with two family members when they were struck by a Kia Rio car allegedly driven by Feely. Feely, from Blackrock Park in Belleek, appeared before district judge Michael Ranaghan via videolink from police custody on Wednesday morning. She spoke briefly at the outset of the hearing to confirm her name and that she understood the charges. Her lawyer said her client was filled with deep, deep remorse and wanted to express condolences to Ms Amorims family. As well as the charge of causing death by dangerous driving, she faces counts of driving with excess alcohol; causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving to Ms Amorims two family members; driving a vehicle without a full driving licence; driving with a provisional licence without the supervision of a qualified driver; and failure to display learner plates. The judge granted bail subject to several conditions, including police agreeing a suitable address for her to reside. A police constable told the court she could connect the accused to the charges. The officer outlined the incident that occurred shortly before 8pm on Monday evening. The three pedestrians were walking on the pavement along the Boa Island road when the Kia Rio mounted the pavement and collided with them from behind, she said. Valeria Amorim was six months pregnant and tragically she and her unborn child were declared deceased at the scene. The defendant was breathalysed at the scene and failed. She admitted to police at the scene that she had been drinking before getting into the vehicle. She was arrested and interviewed where she made full admissions to the offences. The officer did not object to bail but asked for certain conditions to be applied. One of those was that the accused reside at a different address from her current dwelling. The officer explained that her current address was only 400 yards from Ms Amorims family home, adding that there had been tensions in the area following the crash. A lawyer for Feely said her client was residing with her mother and relied on her for support dealing with issues with her mental health. She expressed concern over her ability to receive that support if she was instructed to live at a different address. The lawyer added: I can confirm that she expressed deep, deep remorse about the incident and youve heard from the constable about that she has co-operated with them. She has admitted the offences, she has taken it completely on the chin. On her behalf she has asked me to express her condolence and remorse to the family. The judge acknowledged it was a very emotive case. He said he did not feel Feelys current home address was suitable and asked the police to liaise with her lawyer in order to find a suitable alternative address further away from the deceaseds home. The judge also agreed to other bail conditions requested by the police, including that the accused should not attempt to contact a witness in the case namely the front seat passenger of the vehicle involved; that she should not drink alcohol in a public place; she should submit to a breath test when requested by police; and should sign in at a police station twice a week. Judge Ranaghan said Feely must also continue to engage with addiction and mental health services. The case was listed again for March 11 at Enniskillen Magistrates Court. A PSNI officers decision to use lethal force after a stolen car failed to stop at a checkpoint almost 18 years ago was proportionate, a coroner has found. Steven Colwell, 23, originally from Belfast, died on Easter Sunday 2006 after police fired at the stolen BMW he was driving which failed to stop at the checkpoint in Ballynahinch, Co Down. The officer responsible, identified only as Officer O during the inquest, fired two shots into the car after it engaged in dangerous driving manoeuvres at a vehicle checkpoint. Judge Neil Rafferty, acting as coroner, said the officer had a reasonable belief that there was a threat to his life and the lives of others. He said: The force used by the officer was no more than was absolutely necessary. The inquest heard that there were five passengers in the vehicle with Mr Colwell, four of whom were in the back seat. The coroner said that the occupants of the stolen BMW were a chaotic group of young people under the influence of alcohol and, in most cases, drugs. After detailing evidence relating to a party and an altercation following an attempted burglary prior to the shooting, the coroner said the young people had been running amok in the car driven by Mr Colwell, who toxicology reports found was likely to have been severely impaired by ecstasy. The levels of MDMA in Mr Colwells system were described as much higher than usually associated with recreational use and fell within the range found in fatal poisonings. The coroner said the officers at Ballynahinch had a lack of information required to bring the vehicle to a stop and arrest the occupants. He said their undeveloped plan was conceptually flawed and tactically inappropriate, and seems to have been based on erroneous information that the driver was not likely to attempt to evade the stop. He said Officer O and a constable who was also involved in the stop were taken by surprise when the vehicle attempted to avoid the checkpoint and started conducting dangerous driving manoeuvres. Officer O, who was the senior officer on the team at the checkpoint, attempted a hard or firm stop. This typically involves pointing a weapon at a suspect and informing them they are dealing with armed officers prepared to shoot. The coroner said Officer O made clear and loud instructions to stop but did not find that he had informed Mr Colwell he was armed or prepared to shoot his Glock pistol. He said Mr Colwell had a clear determination to drive away irrespective of what dangers he was causing. Judge Rafferty added: I find the danger was real. The coroner said he was not satisfied that Officer O had positioned himself in front of the vehicle deliberately, adding several things were happening at the same time including the BMW colliding with a Ford Mondeo. He said Officer O did not have a viable or realistic avenue or option of retreat when the BMW then accelerated forward. He said Officer O was not unreasonable to believe the BMW was coming straight at him and that it would have been unreasonable for him to have checked the direction of the tyres, which were pre-set for a lefthand steer, in the split second time frame. The coroner said, on the balance of probabilities, he could not be aware the vehicle would sharply turn left. It was therefore a reasonable mistake to believe the vehicle was coming straight for him. However, in his conclusions, the judge said the PSNI had failed to provide a satisfactory or convincing explanation that the operation had been planned and controlled with care to minimise the risk to life. He said obvious control and planning improvements could have improved the prospects of the tragic events being avoided. He said a call from a witness about the vehicle was inappropriately handled and vital information was missed. A separate investigation into the incident was previously carried out by the Police Ombudsman. Then-ombudsman Al Hutchinson found in his report in 2011 that the actions of a policeman in shooting dead the driver of a stolen car were critically flawed. Speaking outside Belfast Coroners Court, Mr Colwells brother expressed disappointment with the inquest findings. Neil Colwell said the family were glad to see the end of the long haul inquest, which had its first hearing in 2017. He said he felt that if the PSNI had managed their response better his brother might have been alive today. Solicitor Padraig OMuirigh, who represents the family, said they intend to consider potential future steps. There is no doubt there are aspects of these findings which are very disappointing for the Colwell family, he said. We will study this, its very detailed, and look at what other avenues might be available to the family in light of those criticisms. HIGHLIGHTS Hanooman could give us an Indian alternative to ChatGPT that could even understand regional languages. The BharatGPT group, backed by the Government of India and Reliance Industries, gave a glimpse of its large language model (LLM). The AI model Hanooman could assume and will offer speech-to-text capabilities. We are back again with another Artificial Intelligence (AI) story but this time its closer to home. You are living under a rock unless you are unaware of the AI frenzy that the world is witnessing at this moment. The development in the AI sector has skyrocketed and everyone everywhere is just talking about AI and tech companies are not letting it go. Each is in a way trying to get a headstart in the AI space. But today we are going to talk about Hanooman, an Indian initiative that could give us an Indian alternative to ChatGPT that could even understand regional languages. What do we know about Hanooman so far? At the Nasscom IT industry conference happening in Mumbai, the BharatGPT group, backed by the Government of India and Reliance Industries, affiliated to eight universities including IIT Bombay, gave a glimpse of its large language model (LLM). This is the first private-public partnership of its kind that the country has seen. The teaser played during the event showed users interacting with the model in regional languages such as Hindi, Tamil, etc. Also read: Microsoft will give 2 million Indians AI training, says CEO Nadella This model is called Hanooman and once successful it can become Indias card in standing strong in the current AI race. BharatGPT plans on focusing the model to work using 11 local languages in four main fields: health care, governance, financial services, and education. Now what can Hanooman do? The AI model Hanooman will be quite similar to ChatGPT one could assume and will offer speech-to-text capabilities. This will make this model far more user-friendly. Also read: AI education vital to overcome AI-related job loss fears, says Digit Survey Once the AI model is successful and running, Reliance Jio will make customised models for different uses, as informed by Ganesh Ramakrishnan, chair of IIT Bombays Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Lets wait and see how this partner turns out and how efficient the AI model is. HIGHLIGHTS The design of the Nothing Phone (2a) has been changed, as per reports. The iQOO Z9 5G is rumoured to feature an FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate. The Nothing Phone (2a) will be packed with the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro SoC. In the coming days, two mid-range smartphones are going to hit the Indian market. These are long-anticipated Nothing Phone (2a) and iQOO Z9 5G. The specifications of these smartphones have surfaced on the internet, some by brands and the rest by leaks. In this article, I am comparing both of these smartphones based on what we know so far. Lets go! Nothing Phone (2a) vs iQOO Z9 5G: Design Nothings smartphones are widely known for their unique and aesthetic design. To be honest, I really like the transparent design with Glyph LEDs. Obviously, with the Phone(2a), Nothing wont leave this design. According to a new render by OnLeaks in collaboration with SmartPrix, the Nothing Phone (2a) will feature a transparent design. But, the design has been changed. The camera module is at the centre, holding two camera sensors horizontally. Furthermore, the placement of Glyph LEDs has been also changed, as per renders. Coming to the iQOO Z9 5G, the Chinese brand has started teasing the smartphone. The teaser has given us a sneak peek at its design. The iQOO Z9 is expected to follow its predecessors design. On the back, there is a squarish metal camera module in the top left corner. This consists of a dual-camera setup and OIS is also mentioned. The smartphone has a flat design and is shown in a Green colour with a pattern. Also read: Nothing Phone (2a) to come with Made in India tag, confirms CEO Nothing Phone (2a) vs iQOO Z9 5G: Display The display details of these smartphones have been revealed through leaks and rumours. The Nothing Phone (2a) is said to have a 6.7-inch FHD+ OLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate support. On the other hand, the iQOO Z9 5G is rumoured to feature an FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 300Hz touch sampling rate support. The size of this display is expected to be over 6 inches. Nothing Phone (2a) vs iQOO Z9 5G: Performance Phone (2a) is home to a powerhouse: the custom-built MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro. Exclusively co-engineered with Nothing to deliver a seamless performance with remarkable power efficiency. Know more on https://t.co/gyPNZp2LCz #NothingPhone2a pic.twitter.com/Wz8mvydftD Nothing India Bhai (@nothingindia) February 20, 2024 The London-based company recently confirmed that the Nothing Phone (2a) wont be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 chipset. In the latest development, the brand has officially confirmed that the smartphone would be packed with the Dimensity 7200 Pro SoC. Along with that, it is rumoured to feature up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. Moreover, it will most likely run on Android 14-based Nothing OS. iQOO has also confirmed the processor of its upcoming smartphone. The iQOO Z9 will be backed by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 processor. The brand also shared the Antutu benchmark scores of this smartphone, which are 734,000 points. It is also likely that the iQOO Z9 5G will run on Android 14-based Funtouch OS 14. Also read: iQOO Z9 5G India launch officially teased: Processor, OIS support & more revealed Nothing Phone (2a) vs iQOO Z9 5G: Camera Both smartphones are equipped with a dual-camera setup. In the Nothing Phone (2a), you might get a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 50-megapixel Ultrawide lens. Whereas, in the iQOO Z9 5G, there could be a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 OIS main camera and a secondary sensor. Nothing Phone (2a) vs iQOO Z9 5G: Battery The rumours are claiming that the Nothing Phone (2a) will be packed with a 5000mAh battery with 45-watt fast charging support. Whereas, the battery details of the iQOO Z9 5G are not out yet but it is said to have 44-watt fast charging support. 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. Tata reportedly exploring partnership with UMC or PSMC for chipmaking venture As Tata Group is setting up its chipmaking facility, Indian media reported that Tata might try to find a Taiwan-based technology partner, possibly the third Taiwan-India collaboration on semiconductors, if the rumor materializes. The Economic Times quoted sources saying that Tata was considering partnering with Taiwan-based PSMC or UMC for a chipmaking facility at Dholera, Gujarat. Tata aims to make chips on the 65nm node before moving to 48nm and 28nm technologies. According to the report, Tata has completed the details regarding the land for the plant and is expected to commence construction shortly. The initial monthly capacity is estimated to be 25,000 wafers. PSMC and UMC did not confirm the rumor. N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Group, announced in January that the group is set to establish a large semiconductor fabrication plant at Dholera, aiming to commence operations in 2024. Meanwhile, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the minister of state for electronics and IT of India, said the Assam government is expected to partner with Tata Group for an INR250 (US$3 billion) ATMP facility. India has seen surging investments from Taiwan-based companies and a series of collaborations between Indian and Taiwanese companies in recent years. Regarding semiconductors, Foxconn was the first among Taiwan-based companies to invest in the Indian semiconductor ecosystem, followed by Innolux, which collaborated with Vedanta Group for an 8.5-gen panel factory in Gujarat. In January 2023, Frank Huang, chairman of PSMC, said the company agreed to help India build a wafer fab from scratch, with the Indian side offering the required capital and PSMC providing training and other support. However, in June 2023, Huang said it's not easy for the company to assist in helping India build a fab, and it requires more time as India has to begin everything anew about the chip ecosystem. Still, after PSMC's cautiousness about chipmaking collaboration in India, in January 2024, Foxconn partnered with the HCL Group to set up an OSAT facility in India after its joint venture with Vedanta fell apart. In February, Taiwan-based Aptos Technology, a subsidiary of Taiwan Mask, announced a collaboration with India-based Kaynes Semicon Private Limited on training and technology licensing in the OSAT area. LGES 46800 battery reportedly to first power Tesla Cybertruck South Korea-based LG Energy Solution has revealed a schedule for the volume production of its 46800 battery, which will likely first support Tesla. Media reported that EV makers Rivian and Mercedes-Benz have also expressed their interest in cylindrical batteries with a 46mm diameter and may partner with LGES. According to South Korea-based ET News, LGES CEO Kim Dong-Myung recently said the company will start mass-producing the 46800 batteries as soon as August 2024. Tesla Cybertruck is reportedly the first EV that will adopt the battery. The 46800 battery, which can reduce production costs efficiently, holds five times more energy capacity than the 21700 battery. Tesla launched the Cybertruck at the end of 2023 and has been manufacturing the 46800 battery for the vehicle. Sources said as Tesla still sees a lower yield rate in its 46800 batteries, the EV company has asked LGES to advance the beginning of the 46800 battery supply. Therefore, LGES might start mass-producing the product in July. LGES has been mass-producing the 46800 battery on a trial basis at its Ochang plant in South Korea. Although the company has not finalized the production capacity, the volume production will help Tesla stabilize its battery procurement. Besides Tesla, several international carmakers have closely watched LGES' next-generation cylindrical batteries. Rivian and Mecedes-Benz have reportedly begun discussions with LGES about signing a supply contract likely beyond the 46800 battery. The conversation also covered the 46950 and 46120 batteries, which all have a 46mm diameter but different heights. LGES calls these products the "46 series." Demand for LGES' new cylindrical batteries will grow rapidly if the company can broaden its customer base. After its Ochang plant starts mass-producing the 46800 battery, LGES plans to begin manufacturing the battery at its factories in Nanjing, China, and Arizona, the US. While major South Korean battery makers have been developing cylindrical batteries, LGES has been the only one that has finalized the production schedule for the 46800 battery, which will benefit its market share initially. Samsung SDI has named its cylindrical batteries with a 46mm diameter "46pi" and has been preparing for volume production. SK On began developing cylindrical batteries later than its competitors. Panasonic, Tesla's primary battery supplier, had aimed to start mass-producing 46800 batteries in fiscal year 2023, which ends in March 2024. The Japanese company later delayed production to the first half of fiscal year 2024, which ends in September 2024. Since Panasonic and LGES have a similar schedule for the 46800 battery volume production, competition between the two companies for Tesla orders has attracted the industry's attention. Hyundai expands hydrogen presence with Hyundai Mobis acquisition Hyundai Motor has made a significant acquisition in a strategic move to bolster its position as a frontrunner in the burgeoning hydrogen energy sector. The South Korean automotive giant has announced its acquisition of Hyundai Mobis' hydrogen fuel cell business, signaling its intent to fortify its foothold in the hydrogen value chain. According to Chosun Ilbo, Hyundai Motor's decision to acquire Hyundai Mobis' hydrogen fuel cell arm underscores its commitment to streamlining its research and development efforts with production capabilities. This integration aims to foster a more cohesive approach to advancing its hydrogen energy initiatives. The announcement during CES 2024 marked a pivotal moment for Hyundai Motor. The company unveiled its ambitious plans to expand its original fuel cell brand, "HTWO," into a comprehensive hydrogen value chain business under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella. The unveiling of the "HTWO Grid" solution further underscored Hyundai's commitment to driving innovation in the hydrogen energy sector. Through this strategic acquisition, Hyundai Motor seeks to establish an end-to-end hydrogen value chain encompassing research, manufacturing, and vehicle production. By enhancing the quality of hydrogen fuel cell systems, Hyundai aims to position hydrogen fuel cell vehicles as compelling contenders in the automotive market. Moreover, the acquisition allows Hyundai Motor to integrate hydrogen fuel cell production into its existing manufacturing processes, thereby gaining access to cutting-edge technology and fostering collaborations in the field. Hyundai Motor is poised to maintain its leadership in the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle market. Plans are underway to launch the next generation of the Nexo in 2025, alongside diversification efforts spanning various sectors, including power generation, surface transit, ports, ships, and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Hyundai Motor asserts that hydrogen fuel cells represent the cornerstone of the hydrogen energy ecosystem. The company aims to accelerate innovation in hydrogen-powered transportation and drive progress toward a hydrogen-powered society through seamless integration across the value chain. TSMC alone isn't enough for German state Saxony's chip ambition: why Taiwanese suppliers are needed Following the TSMC decision in August 2023 to set up a fab in Dresden, located in the German state of Saxony, the state has been beefing up efforts to attract more Taiwanese suppliers, especially TSMC suppliers, to set foot in the region and expand the local industrial cluster known as Silicon Saxony. However, Taiwanese suppliers remain cautious amid concerns about labor shortage, worker unions, operation costs, and subsidies. On February 20, the German Trade Office Taipei hosted a seminar regarding Saxony's investment environment and support resources. Speakers of the event include Thomas Kralinski, State Secretary of Saxony in charge of the Ministry of Economics, Labour and Transportation, Steffen Rietzschel, the Director of Dresden's Office for Economic Development, Thomas Horn, CEO of Saxony Trade & Invest, and Frank Nemeth, Senior Project Manager of TUV SUD, a technical inspection association based in Germany that tests and certifies facilities for hazard prevention. Saxony's strong automotive industry underpins its semiconductor ambition: the auto sector accounted for 25.2% of the state's industrial output in 2022, while microelectronics accounted for 14%. Infineon, a major automotive chip supplier, can trace its presence there back to 1994 when it was still Siemens Microelectronics Center Dresden. In May 2023, Infineon made an additional investment of EUR5 billion in Dresden. The city also hosted AMD's first fab outside of the USA back in 1996 until GlobalFoundries (GF) took over in 2009. In September 2023, GF announced an additional investment of around EUR8 billion to double its capacity in Dresden by 2030. As a part of TSMC's trajectory of overseas expansions that see its footprints reaching the US and Japan, fab construction in Dresden will start in the second half of 2024 with production targeted to begin by the end of 2027. "A gap of understanding in semiconductor manufacturing" Talking to DIGITIMES Asia at the event, a Taiwanese company experienced in fab construction and expansion projects of TSMC and other foundries customers indicated that the higher operation costs in Germany are a major concern. Subsidy opportunities are thus a key determinant. In addition, as the supplier is primarily responsible for the planning and implementation of the energy management system within fabs, it doesn't rule out competition from local German companies which are also experienced in servicing fabs. The source added that further details remain unknown as TSMC has not revealed the detailed planning of its Dresden fab. In contrast, a Taiwan-based provider of high-purity electronic chemicals for advanced semiconductors and optoelectronics indicated that while costs aren't a concern for chemicals suppliers, the gap in work ethics and culture between Germany and Taiwan could be an issue, citing the one-year delay faced by TSMC's Arizona site. The supplier further noted a potential gap in the understanding of semiconductor manufacturing and fab construction: though many local suppliers often cite experiences in supplying the likes of Intel and GlobalFoundries, the intricacies required by TSMC's cutting-edge fabs are of a different level. Michael Chang, the CEO of First-Elite Enterprise, a TSMC supplier specialized in distributing the engineering equipment for pipeline systems and pipe valves, highlighted the labor issues based on its current experiences in Japan. Despite the tendency to hire more local labor forces, labor shortage issues nevertheless surface during construction peaks. In this context, the CEO inquired the German government representatives if there were plans in place to support the introduction of foreign labor, to which the Saxony officials answered that the state government is generally not responsible for the labor management inside companies, though German construction companies often introduce highly skilled labors from other parts of Europe to address shortage issues. The officials also added a note of optimism, citing Bosch's Dresden fab which started operating six months earlier than expected in 2021. To address the persistent challenge of labor and talent shortage, the officials see the ongoing program that brings German students to train at TSMC as a good start. Notably, the officials see major differences between the environments in the USA and Germany, pointing to the latter's special vocational system, and highly educated workforces, in addition to the attractiveness of living in Germany. "As far as I know, the semiconductor industry in Dresden hasn't had problems in hiring people," said one official. "It's the smaller companies that are a bit skeptical." Readying the infrastructure and policies for a global hub In preparation for an expanding semiconductor cluster, Rietzschel showcased the infrastructure planning underway in Dresden, especially when it comes to water supply, wastewater treatment, and the supply of electricity and gas. It is forecasted that industrial water demand in the region will double in the next 10 to 20 years, and the government is investing a total of EUR316 million to plan for new river waterworks and secure both industrial and drinking water. As the officials put it, a completely new water system is being set up just for the microelectronics industry, and the local government has been in close talks with the companies, giving it a clear picture of industrial water demand up to 2030. With Intel setting up manufacturing operations in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, forming another industrial cluster, the Saxony state officials see a relationship that is both collaborative and competitive, but remain confident towards Saxony's semiconductor industrial heritage that can be traced back to the 1980s. Regarding the neighboring countries that also have microelectronics ambitions owing to their roles in the regional automotive supply chain, especially Poland where Intel plans a packaging facility, the officials also see cooperations and competitions side by side. On the one hand, TSMC's presence has catapulted the region from a European industrial hub to a global hub, and Saxony's government has launched a European Semiconductor Regions Alliance with the European Union in 2023. On the other hand, even though Germany has a pretty active industrial policy, neighboring countries are strengthening theirs as well. Following the constitutional crisis in late 2023 that saw subsidies for fab construction in Germany almost jeopardized, the Saxony state officials stressed that the subsidies are "safe and secure." Given the German federal government's reliance on "special funds" that are off-budget, the officials emphasized that Germany's Constitutional Court "only has rules on the specific way these funds have been organized." Regarding the previously soaring energy costs triggered by the war in Ukraine, the officials observed that prices are slowly going down to a level lower than before the war. Renewable energy, meanwhile, is deemed the best way to reduce energy prices in the long term. Herrera Packman Herrera has welcomed James Packman as an associate scientist. Packman has 25 years' experience in surface water science and engineering helping clients municipal, governmental, non-governmental/institutional, and private with needs related to stormwater and drainage issues, sediment and site evaluation, environmental monitoring, and project management. His skillset includes watershed science, regional stormwater management effectiveness evaluation, identification and source control of surface water pollution, sediment monitoring methods research, statistical modeling, and expert witness support for litigation involving forensic hydrology. Packman has overseen the execution of notable projects, including as the principal investigator for six western Washington Stormwater Action Monitoring (SAM) studies. These SAM studies have supported the 130 municipal stormwater permittees in western Washington with resources for managing stormwater and surface water on topics including pollution identification, source control, and operations and maintenance of best management practices. He also supported Seattle Public Utilities with a fatal flaw analysis for reconnecting a diverted creek back to its natural watercourse in the Cedar River municipal watershed, which provides drinking water for the city of Seattle. Wood Harbinger Carter Andy Brown Montgomery Bollen Leonidas Noi Brown Del Mundo Provera Bellevue-based engineering consulting firm Wood Harbinger, Inc. recently transitioned to its sixth generation of leadership, which took effect on Jan. 1, 2024. Former president/CEO Tom Leonidas has started a new chapter and former executive vice president Sean Bollen is now Wood Harbinger's new president. Bollen brings a nearly 30-year history with Wood Harbinger as an electrical engineer and project manager. He has been managing principal of Wood Harbinger's electrical engineering group for four years. CEO Bollen is joined by a leadership team including controller Courtney Montgomery and director of operations Andy Brown. Montgomery has been with Wood Harbinger for 15 years in roles of increasing responsibility in business and financial management. Brown has also been with Wood Harbinger for 15 years, starting out in CAD and electrical design. He has led the firm's business operations for more than five years. Wood Harbinger also welcomed four new team members in 2023: senior mechanical engineer James Carter, III; electrical designer Michael Provera; electrical designer Tim Del Mundo; and electrical designer Noi Brown. Carter joined the firm as a senior mechanical engineer. He spent 10 years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Coast Guard prior to launching his consulting engineering career in the Seattle Area. He served in a variety of management and leadership roles in the Coast Guard, including as the Port State Control Branch Chief at U.S. Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound, as a mechanical engineer at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC, and as the auxiliary mechanical and electrical engineering division head aboard a high-endurance warship. He holds a master's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Washington (UW), and a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the United States Coast Guard Academy. He is currently pursuing a master's in business administration, also at UW. Provera joined the firm as an electrical designer with six years' experience designing electrical systems for luxury residential, multifamily housing, hotel renovations, healthcare facilities, and office renovations. He holds a master's degree in biological engineering from the University of Hawaii and a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the Colorado School of Mines. Del Mundo is an electrical designer with more than six years of experience. He graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from UW. Recent experience includes several healthcare facility renovation projects. His achievements include top-three rankings in American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges' Student Mathematics League competitions while attending Bellevue College. Brown is an electrical designer with six years of experience, including working for the FAA as a resident electrical engineer in addition to consulting. She has worked on a variety of electrical distribution systems for commercial buildings, transportation infrastructure, and aviation facilities. Prior to a career change into engineering, Noi Brown owned and managed a remodeling company. She holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and a minor in computer science engineering. Subscriber content preview MEXICO CITY (AP) Mexico's president acknowledged Tuesday that the armed forces have taken over yet another civilian role: fixing the nation's highways. Filling potholes has now been added to a long list of projects ranging from planes, trains and policing that the armed forces now control. . . . Elon Musk has backed calls by former UFC champion Conor McGregor to vote no-no in Irelands upcoming referenda on care and the definition of family. The owner of X, formerly Twitter, posted on his social media platform that Conor is right in reference to the Irish fighters position on the referenda, due to take place on March 8. On Tuesday, Mr McGregor posted Vote NO/NO! to his 10.4 million followers about the proposed constitutional change on care and the definition of the family. Conor is right https://t.co/PpzhR7SIds Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 21, 2024 An upcoming referendum proposes deleting Article 41.2.1 and 41.2.2 of the constitution, which make reference to a womans role and duties in the home, and replace it with a new article, 42B, that acknowledges family carers. The second referendum proposes amending Article 41 of the constitution to extend the meaning of family beyond one defined by marriage and include those based on durable relationships. It comes months after the tech billionaire backed Mr McGregor to run for president of Ireland, after the mixed martial arts fighter said he was considering a career change. On Wednesday, Mr Musk replied that would be epic, to a post calling for Mr McGregor to become the countrys next president. Local Enterprise Week Louth 2024 is set to be a dynamic week of learning and networking events for businesses across the county. Organised by the team in the Local Enterprise Office, it takes place from March 4th to 8th, and includes seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities, all designed to support and develop local business. Pamela Kerr, Senior Enterprise Development Officer with Local Enterprise Office Louth explains: Our team are here to support businesses in so many ways, and were not the only ones. Louth has a wealth of great Enterprise Centres, Chambers of Commerce, BIDS and educational institutions that also provide learning, networking, advice and support to business. "We are delighted to partner with many of them including Network Louth, Drogheda Chamber and Dundalk Chamber to co-host events as part of Local Enterprise Week 2024. Tickets for Local Enterprise Week events are free of charge, but are limited, so now is the time to visit www.localenterprise.ie/louth and book your places. Pamela previews some of the highlight events: Network Louth will celebrate International Womens Day with an evening event on Thursday, 7th March focusing on empowerment and confidence. Naomh McElhatton of dara & Co will be the keynote speaker. "Dundalk Chamber will focus on the importance of building a sustainable all-island economy with a cross border conference hosted by journalist Mark Simpson on Wednesday 6th March. While Drogheda Chamber will share valuable insights on how to secure the future of your business through comprehensive insurance and sound financial planning at their breakfast seminar on Thursday 7th March. She continues: As a busy business owner, it can be hard to make time for creative thinking and innovation, but its essential to the future of any business. Were holding Ideas Generation Workshops in three different locations across the county during Local Enterprise Week. "Monday 4th March will take place in Ardee Business Park, Tuesday 5th March will be in The Mill Enterprise Hub, Drogheda and the Wednesday session will take place in Creative Spark, Dundalk. "Hosted by Geraldine Johnston, these free evening sessions are ideal for business owners who want to think creatively and develop new ideas. And dont forget, our Business Advice Clinics are running throughout the week, just log on to our website to book a slot. Pamela concludes We open Local Enterprise Week 2024 on Monday 4th March with a brilliant interactive seminar on Practical AI for your business, and we close it on Friday 8th March with our Louth Enterprise Awards, both of which will be highlights of the week. "Like all the other Local Enterprise Week events, they are free of charge but pre-booking is essential. Visit www.localenterprise.ie/louth to book and we look forward to welcoming you to Local Enterprise Week 2024. Dundalk Bay Seafoods Ltd, a third-generation seafood company based in Clogherhead, says it has completed a 700,000 investment to reduce energy costs and carbon footprint. The company aims to be carbon neutral by 2030. The investment received support from BIM, Ireland's seafood development agency, with funding of almost 270,000 from the Brexit Processing Capital Support Scheme. This scheme, recommended by the Seafood Taskforce established by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie Monologue T.D., will provide up to 45 million in funding to the seafood processing sector and is funded by the European Union under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve. Pat and Cathal Lynch, the directors of Dundalk Bay Seafood's Ltd, expressed their gratitude for the support of the Brexit Processing Capital Support Scheme. They said that the efficiencies achieved due to the scheme will enable them to decrease their energy costs by 80%, which is a significant contribution to lowering their bottom line. This reduction in energy costs will help them become more competitive in the market and secure the company's future for the next generation. The Brexit Process Capital Support Scheme helped Dundalk Bay Seafood by installing 465 PV solar panels, which will generate up to 172 Mwh of electricity per annum, providing 50% of their current annual electricity needs. The company also invested in modern Eco-Line refrigeration equipment, powered by "Variable Speed Compressors". This new equipment replaces a 20-year-old refrigeration system operated by single-speed compressors, contributing to a 22% saving in overall electricity consumption. Improved insulation in temperature-controlled areas will improve energy retention and further reduce electricity consumption by another 10-12%. Dundalk Bay Seafood's Ltd was founded 49 years ago and is currently the longest-operating Dublin Bay Prawn processor in Ireland, it has 30 staff specializing in the processing of Dublin Bay Prawns. In recent years, they have expanded their product range to include locally sourced Razor Clams and King Scallops. The investments made with the support of BIM have future-proofed the company, establishing a pathway for future growth in their export markets of Italy, France, Spain, and Asia. ALMOST 10,000 Ukrainian refugees have arrived in Cork since the start of the conflict in their homeland two years ago. Those 9,466 arrivals, up to February 6, make up 10% of the 100,091 Ukrainians who have arrived in Ireland. Dublin had the highest number, at 14,301, followed by Kerry, at 9,673, then Cork, with the lowest amount 848, in Monaghan. The Cork area with the most arrivals was Midleton, which has welcomed 1,909 Ukrainians, who now make up 3.85% of the population. There were 500 arrivals in Kanturk, representing 1.88% of the population, 314 in Fermoy, making up 0.81%, 120 in Carrigaline, or 0.31%, 188 in Cobh, or 0.51%, 389 in Bandon-Kinsale, or 0.96%, 683 in Bantry, or 2.84%, 805 in Skibbereen, or 2.44%, 753 in Macroom, or 1.89, 678 in Mallow, or 2.95. In the city, there have been 556 arrivals in Cork City North West, where Ukrainians amount to 1.31% of the population, 429 in North East, or 0.97%, 462 in South East, or 1.02%, 708 in South West, or 1.39% and 972 in South Central, or 2.37%. Nationally, there were 11,312 Ukrainian enrolments in primary schools and 6,873 enrolments in secondary schools from summer 2022 up until February 6. Statistician Dylan Morrissey said: There are two maps in this release, based on mapping 100,091 individuals, or 95% of arrivals, to a location within Ireland. These maps are based on the local post office address, as per the process through which arrivals were seeking assistance from the Department of Social Protection or, if available, the arrivals residential address, where an accommodation-recognition payment is payable to the host of the residence. Our analysis also shows that the rate per 100 of the population ranges across all LEAs in the country, from 0.22% to 12.47%. Women and men, aged 20 and over, made up 46% and 23%, respectively, of arrivals to date, while 31% were people aged under 20. Of all arrivals to date aged 18 and over, 62% of males and 48% of females were married or cohabiting. 17,310 arrivals were enrolled in further education and training courses on February 1, of which 14,186 were enrolled in further education English-language courses. As of February 4, almost 41,000 arrivals had attended an employment support event arranged by Intreo Public Employment Services. More than 1,600 children in Cork were waiting for an audiology assessment at the end of January, with more than 200 of these children waiting longer than a year to be seen. Figures from Cork Kerry Community Healthcare (CKCH) show that at the end of last month, 1,609 children were waiting for an initial assessment, with 221 children waiting at least a year for their first audiology assessment, 97 of which were age four or under, and 124 who were aged between five and 17 years. Cork Kerry Community Healthcare acknowledged the delays and said that efforts are underway to address the waiting lists. The spokesperson pointed out that 526 children, or 24.6 per cent, have been removed from the overall list since December. CKCH acknowledges and regrets that there are waiting lists for children's audiology treatment. We sincerely apologise to anyone experiencing delays in accessing services. Progress has been made, with a 49% reduction in the numbers of children waiting more than 52 weeks. A further Wait List Initiative is in place to target 124 longest waiting, aged five to 17 years, to have been seen by mid-April 2024, the spokesperson said. Concerns The delays however have been met with criticism. Sinn Fein Cork North Central TD Thomas Gould voiced concerns that, if not detected early enough, audiology issues could have long-term impacts on a childs speech. Details provided to Deputy Gould through a parliamentary question showed that at the end of December, 2,135 children in Cork were waiting for an initial appointment with audiology services. Of those, 452 children were waiting at least 12 months to see an audiologist, 252 of whom were under the age of four, and 200 of whom were aged between five and 17 years. This is a vital time in a childs life for speech development. Audiology issues could have long-term impacts on a childs speech if not detected and intervened with early enough. Many of these parents are likely deeply concerned, no child should be on a waiting list for healthcare for over 52 weeks. This is simply wrong and shows that there are huge gaps in service in Cork and across this state, he said. I want to be very clear, any child waiting over one year for an audiology appointment is one child too many. Reductions are a step forward but these must continue until we see credible waiting lists for these appointments no childhood should be spent waiting for healthcare," he added. This was echoed by Fianna Fail Cork North Central TD Padraig OSullivan who said: It's unacceptable that children should have to wait that long. I am conscious that waiting times have been reduced, but at the same time, its totally unacceptable. Referrals Referrals to the CKCH audiology service are received directly from GPs or from ear, nose and throat consultants, and assessments are delivered by a team of audiologists who support patients through each stage of their care pathway, from initial assessment to hearing aid fitting and follow-up care. EAST CORK residents impacted by Storm Babet last October travelled to Leinster House yesterday to present a petition to senior politicians, which contained almost 15,000 signatures calling for urgent interim flood measures however none of the ministers they invited met with them. The 15-strong delegation of the Midleton/East Cork Flood Protection Group had invited four ministers, including the minister for the Office of Public Works and the minister for social protection, to meet them. While the group did not meet with the invited ministers, instead, they met a group of Cork TDs including Pat Buckley and Donnchadh O Laoghaire of Sinn Fein; David Stanton of Fine Gael; James OConnor and Padraig OSullivan of Fianna Fail; and Aontu leader Peadar Toibin. During a lengthy meeting, they made their case for interim flood measures to be implemented in their area as a matter of urgency and highlighted difficulties families were facing in accessing the humanitarian funding promised to make their homes habitable again. Cork County Council facing 55m Storm Babet damage repair bill https://t.co/mYhCIY92zg EchoLive.ie (@echolivecork) February 20, 2024 Group secretary Caroline Leahy said the TDs they met listened to the residents as they outlined their situation. We had no commitment as to when the flood defences will be in place and no commitment for reviewing the humanitarian aid scheme and, generally, no timeline for delivery of anything that we need, she said, adding that the small number of households offered funding to meet the cost of the structural damages were only getting a fraction of the costs involved. According to Cork East Sinn Fein TD Pat Buckley, it was vital for the Midleton/East Cork group to come to Dublin to tell their stories. Its testament to the long-term damage, not to mind anything else, said the TD. I raised the flooding issue with the minister just three weeks ago and was told the money was there. He urged the Midleton/East Cork group to give TDs the list of interim flood measures they are seeking. Cork North Central Fianna Fail TD Padraig OSullivan said agreement had been reached for the group to have a meeting with officers of the Department of Social Protection to outline their concerns about the operation of the humanitarian fund set up after Storm Babet. Under the terms of this fund, households were promised up to 100% of the cost of structural repairs to their flood-damaged homes. The Echo has contacted both the Office of Public Works and the Department of Social Protection to seek a response regarding the issues raised by the Midleton/East Cork Flood Protection Group petition. A TWO-YEAR jail term was imposed on a 37-year-old Killarney man for a confidence trick carried out on a man who was duped into buying a fake Rolex watch. Judge Colin Daly described the confidence trick as a long con carried out by the accused and his father. John ORegan, aged 37, of Willows Grove, Ballydribbeen, Killarney, was jailed for two years for his part in the deception. A fully suspended 16-month sentence was imposed on the defendants father, 58-year-old Michael ORegan of Monks Walk, Dennehys Boreen, Killarney, Co Kerry. The judge took factors including poor health into consideration as he gave the older man the suspended sentence. The swindle saw the father and son conning a middle-aged man living in a remote rural area to part with 7,250 and a real watch in exchange for a fake. When the victim found that it did not work, he was told to shake it and wait for a few days. When the victim became suspicious, he travelled to a legitimate jeweller in Cork to have his purchase examined. It was then confirmed that he had bought a fake. He reported the matter to gardai, and the deception was traced to the two accused. Both men pleaded guilty at Cork Circuit Criminal Court to inducing the victim to buy a fake Rolex watch in December 2020 when they called to his home in Donoughmore, Co Cork. Both defendants had a previous conviction for a deception carried out on a woman in her 70s where she was conned into paying them for work that was not done. They received four-year suspended jail terms on that occasion in 2019. Garda Deirdre OMahony said the victim in the present case bought a legitimate Rolex watch from them for 5,200 but later they went back to him with what they described as a superior Rolex and showed him certificates to verify that it was genuine, which it was not. The victim gave them the first watch together with 7,250 for the second watch the fake. When it did not work he was told over the phone to shake it and that it would be fine in a few days. After that they did not answer his calls or they were briefly answered and then cut off. The injured party reported the scam to gardai. Following an investigation which led gardai to the father and son, they made admissions, repaid the money, and gave him back the first watch. A RETIRED solicitor has told a judge and jury that a neighbour arrived at her home on an afternoon in December while she was mixing Christmas puddings to accuse her of stealing his mothers post and then punched her in the face and kicked her while she was on the ground. I really thought he was going to kill me, Mary OBrien Daly testified at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, where the accused man, Hugh OBrien of Ballyanly, Inniscarra, Co Cork, denied the charge of assault causing harm. His barrister, Brian Leahy, described it as a case of mistaken identity. The complainant said the man who called to her home at around 3.30pm on December 8, 2021, and assaulted her was Hugh OBrien. This man has been living beside me for 34 years He is a very distinctive-looking individual, she said. Ms OBrien Daly said the defendants mothers name is Mary OBrien and that a few times over the years her post had gone to the OBrien Daly house. When it occurred, the witness said she redirected it and put it back in the post. Ms OBrien Daly said that, on December 8, 2021, Mr OBrien called to her home with an envelope in his hand and accused her of stealing his mothers post for the last 25 years. She said he referred to another neighbour and said: You are in cahoots with that bollocks next door. The witness said: He made a drive towards me, he closed his fist, he caught me under the eye and knocked out a contact lens. He was saying it was almost like a mantra You are making my life hell. He struck me on the shoulder and knocked me to the ground. I began pleading: Please dont kick me in the hip. I have a bad hip. He bent down over me and caught me by the shoulders and yanked me to my feet. He had his face in on top of my face. I could feel his breath on my face. He was repeating: You are in cahoots with that bollocks next door. And me, a 50-year-old virgin. He kind of pushed me backwards. I got my hand on the gate, and I just ran. She said she rang her husband, her neighbours, and the gardai, and attended her doctor for facial and other injuries photographs of which were shown to the jury of eight men and four women. Brian Leahy, barrister for the defence, said the accused did not have two dogs at the time. Ms OBrien Daly previously said that he had two dogs with him that day. Hugh OBrien, who is now aged 52, gave evidence, examined by Mr Leahy and cross-examined by prosecution barrister Katherine McGillicuddy. Mr OBrien said, I assaulted nobody I said nothing that was said in court. I said nothing to anyone. Asked about taking notes in the witness box while being questioned, he said: If you are accused of something in the wrong, I think it would be stupid of anyone to come into a David-and-Goliath situation of the DPP and the guards who are very selective about who they prosecute and who they dont I think I would be stupid to take down nothing in this David-versus-Goliath situation. Shown photos of the injured party by Detective Garda Mick Dolan, who investigated the case, Mr OBrien was asked if he accepted that they showed she was injured, he said: These photos were put in my face in February 2024 and I am accepting nothing about someone I dont even know. I am accepting nothing. It has nothing to do with me. End of story. Later he said: I didnt assault no one and cause injuries to no one I never met this person who you say knows me, until this person came to court and made accusations against me. Never met the person. Never in my life. Dont know her. End of story. The trial continues. Cork holidaymakers will now be able to fly to three new countries; Greece, Croatia and Belgium. Cork Airport has announced that the three new summer destinations are available to book now on the Ryanair website. The first of the new flights to commence is to Brussels South Charleroi Airport, about 46km out of central Brussels, which will commence on Sunday, March 31. Flights to Rhodes, the largest of Greeces Dodecanese islands and a popular spot for holidaymakers will begin on June 1 while on June 3, flights will commence from Cork to Zadar, the fourth largest airport in Croatia. Barry Holland, the Communications Manager at Cork Airport told The Echo, "This summer, passengers from across Munster and the south of Ireland will have three new, exciting destinations to choose from when planning a summer holiday or city break. The introduction of twice-weekly services to Rhodes and Zadar will undoubtedly be popular additions to our extensive route network, and a new three-times weekly service to Brussels Charleroi will also feature in this year's summer schedule. He said the return of a direct Brussels service "is particularly welcome from an inbound tourism perspective as the wider Brussels area is home to 1.2 million people and it will provide direct air access for that market when travelling to Ireland's scenic south, the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East." He added: We would like to thank Ryanair for their continued commitment to growth at Cork Airport." Introducing our three new summer destinations 1 Rhodes (commencing June 2024) 2 Zadar (commencing June 2024) 3 Brussels (commencing March 2024) Book now on https://t.co/9LSVOCsxFc or with your local travel agent! #LoveTakingOff #NewRoutes pic.twitter.com/DFniTCMwy1 Cork Airport (@CorkAirport) February 20, 2024 Cork Airport managing director Niall McCarthy told The Echo at the end of last year that the airport is expected to reach a new record in 2024 by serving three million passengers. In 2019, before the pandemic, we served 2.59 million passengers so we are growing beyond pre-pandemic levels and expect to continue that growth with more passengers and more destinations in the years ahead, he said. The full list of summer destinations from Cork airport can be found here: https://www.corkairport.com/destinations/flight-schedule THE People Before Profit-Solidarity TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry, has asked Taoiseach Leo Varadkar about his plans to travel to America to meet Joe Biden for St Patricks Day in light of the ongoing war in the Middle East. Speaking in the Dail, Mr Barry said: Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz said on Sunday, if by Ramadan our hostages are not home, the fight will continue to the Rafah area. Ramadan begins this year on March 10, thats the start of the week in which you press your shirts and pack your bags to fly off to the United States for a celebration with Joe Biden. He asked: Have you considered the fact that the most bloody episode of the Israeli states entire genocidal campaign might now coincide with you presenting a bowl of shamrock to a man who, despite cautioning against the ground invasion of Rafah, has been Israels main provider of finance and weapons? Do you think that this is an appropriate moment for a celebration with this man, do you think it is an appropriate moment for a present of a bowl of shamrock, and do you think it is time to reconsider your plans for March 17? said Mr Barry. His question comes as around 1,000 people have taken to the streets of Cork for 19 weekends in a row for rallies in solidarity with Palestine, with this coming Saturdays event to be an all-Munster affair. In response, Mr Varadkar said: These visits are an opportunity to meet with political leaders in the US, and for me its an opportunity to speak to President Biden and other US leaders and tell them about the views and feelings of the Irish people in relation to the Middle East, and thats what I intend to do. He added: I also live in the real world and I know that if I did not turn up for this engagement, that slot would just be given to someone else who might not put across the views of the Irish people in relation to the situation there. Every cent counts was the comment from Gardai after they seized 670,000.40 in cash at a location in Dublin yesterday as part of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs Cork. The cash was seized after a vehicle was stopped in the Mespil Road area of Dublin 4 on Tuesday morning. Every cent counts, said a post on the Garda Siochana Dublin Facebook page showing the cash seized down to the last 40c. This seizure is as a result of our ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of drugs by the Divisional Drugs Unit in Midleton Co. Cork with the support of the Serious Crime Unit based in Donnybrook. One male (30s) was arrested and is detained for questioning at a South Dublin Garda Station - he can be held for up to seven days. A STUDENT who was one of two people who died in a car crash in Co Limerick on Tuesday night has been named as Darragh Dullea, 20, from near Clonakilty. Mr Dullea was a passenger in a car which crashed into a wall on the N69 near Ballyengland near Askeaton. Cillian Kirwan, 19, from Piltown, Co Kilkenny was the other fatality in the crash, which occurred at around 7.25pm on Tuesday night. Two others were injured in the crash, one from the Charleville area, and the other a native of Co Offaly. All four were students at the Salesian Agricultural College in Pallaskenry, Co Limerick. According to a Garda statement it was a single-vehicle collision in which a car collided with a wall. Two passengers, a man in his 20s and a man in his late teens, were fatally injured. The driver and another passenger, both in their late teens, are receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The bodies of the deceased were removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Limerick where post-mortem examinations were due to take place. The road remained closed for a time yesterday and local diversions were in place. A technical examination was due to be carried out by garda forensic collision investigators. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact them and are asking any road users who were travelling in the area at the time who might have camera footage, including dashcam footage, to make it available to gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Askeaton Garda Station on 061 601630, or any garda station. Cillian Sherlock, PA The Department of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Russian ambassador to Ireland to express outrage at the death of key opposition figure Alexei Navalny. The department said it summoned Yury Filatov on Tuesday and reiterated that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership. The Russian prison service announced that Mr Navalny, a major opposition leader, died during his detention at an Arctic penal colony on Friday. The department also called for a full, independent and transparent investigation into his death. .@dfatirl summoned the Russian Ambassador yesterday to express outrage at the death in prison of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, reiterate that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership, & call for a full, independent & transparent investigation. https://t.co/cNKA76JSq5 Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) February 21, 2024 Earlier this week, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said Mr Navalnys death was a reminder of the repressive and oppressive Russian regime. He said: President (Vladimir) Putin has ruthlessly put down any opposition and suppressed any dissent, freedom of speech, freedom of the right to gather. He added: Its quite shocking when you stand back and just reflect on the degree to which the fundamental spirit of the human being is being suppressed in Russia. By David Young and Jonathan McCambridge, PA An independent inquiry into the Omagh bombing will examine alleged security failings that led a High Court judge in the North to conclude the outrage could plausibly have been prevented. The UK government has outlined its terms of reference for the independent probe, which will be chaired by Lord Turnbull. The dissident republican bomb exploded in Tyrone town on August 15th, 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. UK Northern Ireland secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the statutory inquiry into the attack last year in response to a court judgment that directed the UK government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the Belfast High Court judge directing the state to act. Mr Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement on Wednesday. In his 2021 judgment, Mr Justice Horner directly recommended that the UK government carry out an investigation into alleged security failings in the lead-up to the atrocity. While having no jurisdiction to order the Irish Government to act on the matter, the judge urged authorities there to establish their own probe in light of his findings. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic. Mr Heaton-Harris has also pressed the Irish Government to act. On a visit to Belfast on Wednesday, Tanaiste Micheal Martin, pledged to co-operate with the UK inquiry, but said he did not think it made sense to have two inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the Border. Chris Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement. Photo: PA. The inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005 with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath. In his statement, Mr Heaton-Harris said: I want to first again express my deepest sympathy for all of those affected by the Omagh bombing in August 1998. It was a cruel atrocity carried out, not just on the people of Omagh, but on all those in Northern Ireland who supported the peace process. Following the announcement of the inquiry in February 2023, and the appointment of Lord Turnbull as chair in June 2023, I have now agreed with Lord Turnbull the terms of reference for the inquiry. These are focused on the four grounds identified by the Northern Ireland High Court as giving rise to plausible arguments that the bombing could have been prevented. With the terms of reference now agreed, the inquiry can press ahead with its work to comply with the judgment of the High Court, demonstrating the UK governments ongoing commitment to taking proper action on legacy-related matters. The inquiry chairman will now undertake a setting-up exercise to design the inquiry as he sees fit, and he will announce further detail about the inquiry in due course. The inquiry will examine the adequacy of the measures taken by UK state authorities, including the police, security forces and intelligence and security agencies, to disrupt dissident republicans who had been involved in attacks from December 1997 up to and including the Omagh bombing. It will assess whether that approach changed following the Good Friday Agreement of April 1998. It will also probe alleged intelligence-sharing failures between the UK and Irish authorities in the year-and-a-half leading up to the bombing. It will further test an allegation made by former senior police officer Norman Baxter that detectives investigating previous dissident attacks were not given access to full intelligence information on suspects. It will also examine claims around information allegedly passed to the security forces by a state agent known as Kevin Fulton in the months prior to the Omagh attack. The inquiry will also look at intelligence said to have been obtained by the UK governments Communication Headquarters (GCHQ) from alleged vehicle and telephone monitoring of dissident republicans involved in the planning, preparation and conduct of the Omagh bombing and other earlier attacks. The subsequent analysis and handling of the GCHQ intelligence by the state authorities will also be investigated. The inquiry will also examine the extent and adequacy of steps taken by UK authorities to track and analyse the mobile telephone usage by those suspected to be involved in dissident republican terror attacks before the Omagh bombing and whether that data may have aided efforts to disrupt the atrocity in Omagh. Mr Turnbull said he was confident the terms of reference would allow him to conduct a thorough and robust investigation. The first thing to stress is that the inquiry is an entirely independent body, he said. I and my team will decide which are the relevant and important issues to explore and which witnesses will be called. We will do so in a manner which is entirely free of influence from the Government, or any of the United Kingdom authorities and agencies. The inquiry is established under the provisions of the Inquiries Act of 2005, which means that I will have the power to require the production of documents and the attendance of witnesses. I shall make use of those powers to any extent necessary. Mr Turnbull said the voice of the victims will be heard. Whilst I have not yet defined the exact procedure the inquiry will follow, it is my intention to invite families and survivors to commemorative hearings in Omagh at some point this year, so I can hear directly from those most affected by the bombing, he said. I recognise that for some, however, revisiting events of the past would be too traumatic and that they may have no wish to return to such a difficult time in their lives and the lives of their own loved ones. I will fully respect that view, and the inquiry will recognise your privacy if this is your wish. The first phase of the inquiry will involve gathering information and materials. The second phase will be the evidential hearings and Mr Turnbull said he intended for those to be held in public and broadcast live, unless it was necessary in the public interest for reasons of national security that they are held in private. He acknowledged it could take some time before he was in a position to produce a final report and said he would consider whether to issue an interim report ahead of the inquirys conclusion. Tanaiste Micheal Martin during a visit to Ulster University in Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA. Mr Heaton-Harris reiterated his call for the Irish Government to set up its own inquiry. I urge the Irish Government to now explain what consideration it has given to the setting up of an investigation in Ireland to discharge its obligations under article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, in line with the clear direction of the High Court, he said. However, speaking during his visit to Ulster University in Belfast, Mr Martin questioned the merit of having two separate inquiries. He also denied that the Government haw not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic, he said in clear reference to the UKs contentious legacy laws. The Gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. Stormonts leaders were also asked about the probe on a visit to Limavady on Wednesday morning. First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago, and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. Virtual agents and AI chatbots will be eating into search engine volumes over the next two years, causing them to decline by 25%, according to a report released Monday by technology research and advisory firm Gartner. It predicted that pressure from competing technologies will create a new emphasis by search engines on quality and authenticity. Search engine algorithms will need to value the quality of content to offset the sheer amount of AI-generated material, Gartner explained, as content utility and quality will still reign supreme for success in organic search results. Content creators will have to place greater emphasis on watermarking and other methods used to authenticate high-value content, a trend being driven by government regulators around the world, it continued, which will influence how search engines display such content. Companies will need to focus on producing unique content that is useful to customers and prospective customers, Gartner Vice President Analyst Alan Antin said in a statement. Content should continue to demonstrate search quality-rater elements such as expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, he added. Rethinking Marketing Channels Antin explained that organic and paid search are vital channels for tech marketers seeking to reach awareness and demand-generation goals. Generative AI solutions are becoming substitute answer engines, replacing user queries that previously may have been executed in traditional search engines, he stated. This will force companies to rethink their marketing channels strategy as gen AI becomes more embedded across all aspects of the enterprise, he added. Gartners predicted search volume drop would have a significant impact on marketers. If this prediction turns out to be accurate and its important to remember this is just a prediction, not a guarantee companies will be forced to reassess which platforms and channels they invest in, and how much, said Danny Goodwin, managing editor of Search Engine Land, a digital marketing and advertising technology publication. For a long time, organic and paid search namely Google have been a fairly reliable source of traffic, he told the E-Commerce Times. Google delivered searchers who were likely to convert, buy or complete some type of task on your site. With AI answer engines in the search mix, marketers will have to optimize their strategies for more than the web and Google. It may mean learning how to optimize to influence large-language models like ChatGPT, Goodwin speculated. It may mean investing in video, doing SEO for TikTok or YouTube. For retail, he continued, Amazon SEO may become more critical. It also means optimizing for social media platforms, such as LinkedIn and Meta. Basically, companies will need to assess where their target audience is and optimize for everything to make sure they are present and findable everywhere, all at once, he added. Diversified Approaches Needed Greg Sterling, co-founder of Near Media, a news, commentary, and analysis website, agreed that a volume dip would affect online marketing strategies. Companies will be forced to act differently and further diversify their channels, but they should be doing that anyway, he told the E-Commerce Times. He added that he thought Gartners numbers were aggressive, but the assumptions behind them are directionally accurate. Brands are already rethinking their strategies, maintained Joe Karasin, CMO and founder of Karasin PPC, a marketing agency that specializes in Google ads, in Lapeer, Mich. This has been a known issue for some time now, and companies have reacted by investing more in alternative platforms, he told the E-Commerce Times. E-commerce brands are investing heavily in TikTok, which has become a de facto search engine, particularly among younger consumers. Reddit has also become a more valuable channel for brands, as the trend on search to add Reddit at the end of a query has taken off. To adapt to the changing search landscape, marketers may pivot towards diversified approaches, allocating resources to alternative platforms such as social media, content marketing, and influencer collaborations, added Mark N. Vena, president and principal analyst at SmartTech Research in San Jose, Calif. Emphasizing user experience could become paramount, prompting investments in website optimization and personalized content, he told the E-Commerce Times. A great experience for your users is going to be critical, added Antin. If you cant provide that great experience, youll be losing users, he told the E-Commerce Times. Combating AI Content Deluge Vena also speculated that there may be a renewed focus on data-driven decision-making to target audiences effectively across various channels. This shift could herald a more holistic and nuanced marketing approach, leveraging a mix of digital and traditional channels to navigate the evolving landscape and maintain brand visibility and engagement, he said. He added that as volumes decline, the search engines are likely to intensify their efforts to identify quality content on the web. To address this challenge, they may enhance their algorithms to better distinguish between authentic, high-quality content and AI-generated spam, he explained. Collaborating with AI researchers and investing in cutting-edge technologies could enable search engines to stay ahead of the curve and maintain the integrity of search results amidst the proliferation of AI-generated content, he said. Google will tell you that its algorithms can already detect low-quality content, regardless of whether human or AI-generated, quipped Sterling. In reality, its going to be more complex. They will need to use more or different signals to catch cynically produced AI content. Many have been complaining about the quality of Google search of late, acknowledged Goodwin, but history tells me that when Google is faced with an onslaught of criticism about its search quality, Google tends to respond with major algorithm updates, such as in 2011 when, following months of complaints about content farms ranking well in Google search, Google launched an algorithm update called Panda that specifically attacked that problem. Fighting AI With AI One way search engines can improve their results and maybe reduce user flight is to crack down on parasitic SEO, maintained Aaron Masterson, founder of LinkGenius, a maker of a backlink management tool in Austin, Texas. Parasite SEO content is a strategy where someone creates content on established, high-authority websites to piggyback on their reputation and boost the ranking of their own website. Stopping parasitic SEO would allow the blogs and niche sites that work hard to provide great content to be able to properly rank on page one of search results, he told the E-Commerce Times. The chief way that the search establishment will counter its AI competitors, however, will be to embrace AI themselves, maintained Will Duffield, a policy analyst with the Cato Institute, a Washington, D.C. think tank. Weve seen that with Bing, he told the E-Commerce Times. In time, Google is likely to bring its AI products into its mainline search tool. We already see it in Googles answer panel. Its a case of if you cant beat em, join em. If a certain number of searches that people always made are best answered by a chatbot rather than a link to content somewhere else, then theres no reason not to use chatbot tools to answer those questions, he added. People often google things that are a poor fit for a ranked list of websites. They just need an answer to something, he continued. To an extent, that will obscure any losses in traditional search because the user is going to be querying traditional search and AI search at the same time or beside each other. STOCKHOLM - The Scandinavian Textile Initiative for Climate Action (STICA) has organised a week of webinars to highlight the challenges facing the apparel industry in reducing its carbon footprint. STICA's Climate Action Week for Fashion and Apparel will feature discussions on a range of climate-related issues featuring experts from across the industry from 18th-22nd March. Speakers include H&M climate impact lead Henrik Sundberg; Lars Fogh Mortensen of the European Environment Agency; Beth Jensen, climate+ impact director at Textile Exchange; Pauline op de Beeck from the Apparel Impact Institute; Lindita Xhaferi-Salihu of UN Climate Change; Paola Migliorini, environment policy officer at the European Commission; and Maxine Bedat, founder of the New Standard Institute. The event begins on Monday 18th March with two webinars - 'What Gets Measured Gets Managed: But Are We Measuring the Right Things And Are We Measuring Them Right?' and 'Fibre Production & GHG Emission Reductions: How Important Is What Is Made VS. How It Is Made? Are Natural Fibres and Synthetics Equally Problematic?' Tuesday will see three webinars: 'We Have Set Science-Based Targets for GHG Reductions, But How Feasible & Realistic Are Our Climate & Energy Goals?'; 'Show Me The Money: For Financing the Transition'; and 'Voluntary Industry Organisations & Climate Initiatives: How Effective Are They & What More Can They Do?' Legislative proposals to mitigate the climate crisis will be the theme on the third day with two sessions - one looking at legislation and regulation in the European Union, the other examining the same topics in the US. Three webinars are planned for Thursday: 'Keeping the Pressure On: Watchdogs & Climate Action'; 'Climate Action Means Transition But How Do We Ensure This Transition Is Just?'; and 'Circular Business Models Are Critical for Climate Action So What Is Preventing Them From Becoming Mainstream?' The week concludes on Friday with a final session, entitled 'Green-growth, Overconsumption & Degrowth: Can Sufficient Emissions Reductions Be Achieved within the Current Paradigm?' Full details are available on the website of the Sustainable Fashion Academy, which co-ordinates STICA, where a statement talks about the daunting nature of the task facing the industry in terms of meeting its climate targets. "Our progress is too slow and the challenges ahead are many. But we must stay the course. During this week we will interrogate the topic from various perspectives, with contributions from global leaders and practitioners," it says. "We will hear from government representatives, policy designers and policy makers, brands and manufacturers, industry organisations and watchdogs, researchers, investors and journalists. We will identify what we should keep doing, what we should stop doing and what more we can still do." Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. People visit the lakefront as temperatures climbed to near 60F, more than 20 degrees above normal in Chicago, Illinois on Feb. 9, 2024, the 19th consecutive day of above average temperatures for the city. Scott Olson / Getty Images The City of Chicago is suing five of the planets biggest oil and gas companies and a trade group over their contributions to climate change, saying they misled the public about how their fossil fuel products contribute to extreme heat, flooding and other impacts on residents of the Windy City. On Tuesday, the administration of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson filed a lawsuit against Chevron, BP, Exxon Mobil, ConocoPhillips and Shell, saying the oil giants not only deceived the public, but discredited science as the climate crisis escalated, reported the Chicago Sun-Times. Evidence shows that these Defendants intentionally misled Chicago residents about the climate change-related dangers associated with their oil and gas products. If unabated, climate change could result in catastrophic impacts on our city, said Mary Richardson-Lowry, corporation counsel for the City of Chicago, in a press release from the Office of the Mayor. We bring this lawsuit to ensure that the Defendants who have profited from the deception campaign bear responsibility for their conduct. The suit, filed in Cook County Circuit Court, also named the American Petroleum Institute as a defendant. The city accused the trade group of conspiring with oil companies in promoting disinformation campaigns, while at the same time having knowledge of the realities of climate change, said the Chicago Sun-Times. There is no justice without accountability, Johnson said in the press release. From the unprecedented poor air quality that we experienced last summer to the basement floodings that our residents on the West Side experienced, the consequences of this crisis are severe, as are the costs of surviving them. That is why we are seeking to hold these Defendants accountable. The complaint alleges ten causes of action in the defendants role in contributing to climate change, including negligence, failure to warn, public nuisance, civil conspiracy and unjust enrichment. The city is asking that the oil companies be held responsible for the costs of infrastructure needed to adapt to climate change, as well as damage to property, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. These companies knowingly deceived Chicago consumers in their endless pursuit of profits, said Chicao Alderman Matt Martin in the press release from the mayors office. As a result of their conduct, Chicago is enduring extreme heat and precipitation, flooding, sewage flows into Lake Michigan, damage to city infrastructure, and more. That all comes with enormous costs. But both the facts, and the law, are on our side, and we intend to shift those costs back where they belong: on the companies whose deceptive conduct brought us the climate crisis. Since 2017, cities in Colorado, California, New York, Oregon, Mayland, South Carolina, Hawaii and Puerto Rico have brought similar suits, a press release from the Center for Climate Integrity said, as reported by the Chicago Tribune. Residents of Chicago have dealt with heat waves, warmer winters with less snow, increased heavy rain and less ice on Lake Michigan since 1980. In order to fix existing damage and build the new infrastructure that will stand up to more extreme weather, the lawsuit said the city is planning nearly $200 million in investments to safeguard its most vulnerable areas. The climate change impacts that Chicago has faced and will continue to face including more frequent and intense storms, flooding, droughts, extreme heat events, and shoreline erosion are felt throughout every part of the city and disproportionately in low-income communities, the lawsuit states, as Common Dreams reported. The suit referred to the finding that last year was the hottest on record and that extremely hot days were predicted to increase, according to the Chicago Tribune. Big Oil has lied to the American people for decades about the catastrophic climate risks of their products, and now Chicago and communities across the country are rightfully insisting they pay for the damage theyve caused, said President of the Center for Climate Integrity Richard Wiles in a statement. With Chicago, the nations third largest city, joining the fray, there is no doubt that we are witnessing a historic wave of lawsuits that could finally hold Big Oil accountable for the climate crisis they knowingly caused. (Photo: Peter Kenny)Campaign to stop violence against Christians in India on square in front of United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland on June 23, 2021 during a session of the UN Human Rights Council. The pro-Hindu government in India's central Chhattisgarh state is moving to fortify its anti-conversion laws with upcoming polls on the horizon, Catholic Bishop Paul Toppo is warning. The provincial government in the state has announced plans to add strengthen its sweeping anti-conversion law, which is often used to target Christians in the country, UCA News reported on Feb. 19. The proposed bill by the pro-Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Chhattisgarh requires individuals seeking to convert to another religion to apply at least 60 days in advance to the district magistrate. A person who wishes to convert to another religion will have to fill a form with personal details at least 60 days in advance and submit it to the District Magistrate. The magistrate will then ask the police to assess the "real intention, reason, and purpose," The Indian Express reported. It said the new Bill was set to be introduced in the Chhattisgarh Assembly in the coming days. A person who performs the conversion ceremony will similarly have to fill out a form at least a month in advance. The draft also states that conversion "cannot be done from one religion to another by the use or practice of abuse, force, undue influence, coercion, inducement or by any fraudulent means or by marriage." The Indian Express report noted that over the last few years, when the Congress was in power in the state, it saw several instances of tribals who had converted to Christianity being attacked in districts such as Kondagaon and Narayanpur. In the run-up to the assembly polls, the BJP had made conversions an electoral issue. The new Bill provides for a a minimum of two years and maximum of 10 years in jail to those, who illegally convert minors, "scheduled castes and scheduled tribes," reported the Deccan Chronicle. "The draft legislation christened Chhattisgarh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Bill, also provides that for mass conversion, the punishment will be a minimum of three years and a maximum of 10 years." UCA News reported that mass conversion is punishable by a minimum of three years and a maximum of 10 years, along with a fine of 50,000 rupees ($602). The proposed law, however, would not apply to those who want to convert back to their previous religion. "The state already has an ant-conversion law. So, why do we need another bill?" asked Bishop Paul Toppo of Raigarh diocese based in the state. He told UCA News on Feb. 19 that the move raises suspicion of a hidden agenda because the country is scheduled to host a general election around April-May. "There is no doubt that the proposed bill is to target minority communities like Christians and Muslims," he noted. An appeals court has blocked a $1 billion copyright verdict from 2019 against US internet service provider Cox Communications and ordered a retrial, Arts Technica has reported. A three-judge panel ruled unanimously that Cox didn't profit directly from its users' piracy, rebutting claims from Sony, Universal and Warner. The judges did affirm the original jury's finding of willful contributory infringement from the trial, first announced back in 2018. To that effect, they ordered a new damages trial that may reduce the size of the award. "We reverse the vicarious liability verdict and remand for a new trial on damages because Cox did not profit from its subscribers' acts of infringement, a legal prerequisite for vicarious liability," the panel wrote. It added that "no reasonable jury could find that Cox received a direct financial benefit from its subscribers' infringement of Plaintiffs' copyrights." Cox allegedly refused to take "reasonable measures" to fight piracy, according to the original allegations. Internet providers are supposed to terminate the accounts of offending users, but the ISP only conducted temporary disconnections and warned some users more than 100 times. The labels claimed it even instituted a cap on accepted copyright complaints and cut back on anti-piracy staffers. However, the judges said that Sony offered no causal connection between infringement and higher revenues for Cox. "No evidence suggest that customers chose Cox's Internet service, as opposed to a competitor's, because of any knowledge or expectation about Cox's lenient response to infringement." Under the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and EU rules, ISPs enjoy "safe harbor" protections that shield them from liability for user actions. However, that only holds if they comply with specific requirements and address copyright violations promptly and in this case, Cox didn't do that, the judges said. "The jury saw evidence that Cox knew of specific instances of repeat copyright infringement occurring on its network, that Cox traced those instances to specific users, and that Cox chose to continue providing monthly Internet access to those users... because it wanted to avoid losing revenue," the ruling states. The case is now headed back to a US District court. Over the weekend, a suspended district judge was arrested for allegedly shooting her sleeping boyfriend in the face and attempting to shift blame onto him. On Feb. 10, in the early morning hours, Susquehanna Township Police responded to a shooting report at a residence on Saddle Ridge Drive in Harrisburg, according to the Cumberland County District Attorney's Office. Sonya McKnight, a suspended district judge, is accused of shooting her boyfriend in the head. The district attorney's office describes the trajectory of the bullet, stating it "entered the right side of the victim's face, traversed through his head in a straight line behind and slightly below his eyes and exited the left side of his face." RELATED: 15-Year-Old Arrested For The Capital Murder Of 3 People, Will Be Charged As An Adult Although the victim survived the shooting, he is now blind in one eye as a result of the incident. According to the Associated Press, referencing McKnight's arrest affidavit, Michael McCoy, the victim, had ended his relationship with McKnight and had repeatedly tried to persuade her to leave. On the night of Feb. 9, after returning home from dinner, McCoy discovered McKnight, 57, on his couch in pajamas. Allegedly, he informed her of his plan to call her mother for assistance in relocating her belongings, and at that moment, he sensed that she "finally understood that it was over." McKnight dialed 911, asserting she "could not explain what happened" and claimed she was asleep, only to awaken to the sounds of the victim screaming. McKnight informed investigators that she did not leave the house on the night of the shooting, the AP reports. However, doorbell video footage allegedly contradicted this claim, revealing her presence outside. McCoy reportedly expressed his belief that McKnight followed him to the restaurant where he had dinner that night. RELATED: Newlyweds Fatally Shot In Bar Robbery, Arrest Made In Wisconsin McKnight reportedly had gunshot residue detected on her hands. On Thursday, McKnight was arrested on charges of criminal attempted murder and aggravated assault. Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo recused himself from the investigation, as McKnight is a magisterial district judge in the county. The Pennsylvania Attorney General also recused themselves due to a conflict of interest. The AP reports McKnight faced suspension in November amid various misconduct allegations. A 36-year-old father has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2022 drowning death of his three children, all under the age of 5. On Feb. 16, the Lake County State's Attorney's Office announced Jason Karels was been sentenced to life in prison without parole. This follows his guilty but mentally ill plea in December 2023 for the drowning his children; Gideon, 2, Cassidy, 3, and Bryant, 5, as reported by the Lake & McHenry County Scanner. RELATED: Newlyweds Fatally Shot In Bar Robbery, Arrest Made In Wisconsin On June 13, 2022, around 1:40 p.m., the Round Lake Beach Police Department received a welfare check request in the 200 block of East Camden Lane. The state's attorney's office reported that the children's mother discovered them lifeless and promptly summoned officers to the scene. Inside the home, police reportedly discovered the children, along with a note from Karels that read, "If I can't have them neither can you." Karels fled the scene before investigators arrived. However, later that day, Illinois State Troopers pursued Karels' vehicle for 17 minutes and arrested him after he crashed near Interstate 80 and Water Street in Joliet. During his arrest, Karels reportedly made "statements to police officers regarding his role in the triple homicide." WGN-TV reports that at the time of their deaths, the mother, Debra Karels, was actively seeking full custody of the victims. The parents were estranged from each other during this period. RELATED: 15-Year-Old Arrested For The Capital Murder Of 3 People, Will Be Charged As An Adult The Lake County Coroner's Office concluded that the children had drowned. During sentencing, the children's mother, maternal grandmother, and aunt provided impact statements. The family called the victims "beautiful, innocent children who did not deserve what happened to them." The state's attorney's office characterized Karels as a "monster," emphasizing that he "was the one person who was supposed to love and protect them at all costs and instead, he did the complete opposite." Chief of the Domestic Violence Division, Eric Kalata, denounced Karels' actions as "brutal, evil, and sinister." Judge James Booras labeled the crime as "sickening" and "despicable." Teachers at West Charlotte High School in North Carolina celebrated Black History Month by using real life examples of racism, decorating school doors with jarring displays of segregated entrances. The picture of two classroom doors, one labeled "colored entrance" with dark brown paper and the other labeled "white entrance" with white paper, went viral on social media. Above the doors was an additional sign that read: "Sears Department Store 1930." RELATED: Florida Public School Demands Parents Sign Permission Slips For Students To Participate In Black History Month Although the image had already swept social media, once the school's leadership was notified about the decorations they were taken down in a couple hours. There were mixed responses on the matter, with some taking the angle that the jarring display of segregation could spark engaging discussions. Daughter of one of the teachers in question, Laquinta Caldwell, spoke with WCNC Charlotte defending her mother's vivid decoration tactics. "The purpose of the door was to show that Sears, which is a department store, was one of the first stores that allowed Blacks to shop with white people," Caldwell explained. "Her only thing was making sure that the kids knew, or could see, a visual of how things were back in the day." RELATED: Kate Middleton Was Bullied At School For Being 'Perfect': Report In a statement, the Charlotte Meclenburg Schools (CMS) called the decorations "inappropriate" and insisted that teachers be retrained. "The school district is required to provide social studies and history lessons to all our students in an age-appropriate manner. Teachers at West Charlotte High School decorated doors that displayed inappropriate content. The activity is not aligned to State Standards or with CMS curriculum and approved lesson plans," they began. "Moving forward, the district's teachers will be retrained in the specific social studies curriculum practices that can be utilized in lesson plans to teach students." Despite the controversy, Caldwell believes her mother's mission was accomplished, whether reactions were negative or positive. For the first time ever, Alabama's Supreme Court has recently ruled that frozen embryos are "children" and that those who seek to destroy the embryo can be held accountable for wrongful death. Critics like Dana Sussman the deputy executive director of legal advocacy group Pregnancy Justice are reportedly concerned that defining embryos as people could spread nationally, mentioning one religious group already citing the court ruling in a Florida abortion rights case. This supreme court decision resurfaces the nation's concern regarding when life begins. Reproductive advocates say this ruling could have a significant effect on infertility treatments for hundreds of Alabamians. RELATED: Leann Rimes, Eddie Cibrian Reality Show Deals with Infertility Drama Amid Rumors Eddie is Stopping Her From Getting Pregnant [PHOTOS] "This is part of a long and strategic march towards entrenching this ideology of fetal personhood, that is at the heart of controlling pregnant people, their decisions and their birth outcomes," Sussman told CNN. Last year the World Health Organization (WHO) published a report stating 1 in 6 worldwide experience infertility issues, showing an urgent need to increase access to affordable, high-quality fertility care for those in need. The Alabama ruling, which was released on Friday, could greatly affect those participating in in vitro fertilization (IVF), or those seeking the treatment. It may also pose an unexpected increase in the criminalization of expectant women. Although this doesn't prohibit IVF in any way, it would be the first time ever that a human embryo is considered a human being by law. RELATED: Angie Dickinson In Poor Health After Being Lonely For a Year? TV Legend Reportedly Has Full of Regrets [REPORT] Critics say this could result in a massive increase in liability costs, fertility treatment prices, and could deter the healthcare industry from providing the treatment due to risks of being held liable for complicated or unsuccessful pregnancies. Alabama Supreme Court Justice Greg Cook weighed in, highlighting the risks that healthcare companies and professionals may face taking on fertility treatment services. "No rational medical provider would continue to provide services for creating and maintaining frozen embryos knowing that they must continue to maintain such frozen embryos forever or risk the penalty of a Wrongful Death Act claim," he started. He continued: "There is no doubt that there are many Alabama citizens praying to be parents who will no longer have that opportunity." The sheep sector has warned that bluetongue virus could spread across the UK as the year progresses, despite the government relaxing rules from this week. Temporary control zones (TCZs) were set up in November 2023 following the UK's first case of bluetongue virus since 2007. Established in Kent and Norfolk, they were designed to limit the movement of livestock to control the spread of bluetongue, which causes infertility and breathing problems in sheep, cattle and goats. Since November, there have been 112 bluetongue cases in England on 64 farm premises in three counties - Kent, Norfolk and Suffolk. There is currently no vaccine to fight the virus. However, despite this, Defra has frequently said there is no evidence that bluetongue virus is currently circulating in midges in Britain, which transmit the virus. From Monday (19 February), the government lifted the TCZs in Kent and Norfolk due to a current reduced level of midge activity. Certain restrictions do remain to reduce the risk of the spread of the bluetongue-3 (BTV-3) strain, which is the new strain of bluetongue currently being found in northern Europe and UK. While the National Sheep Association (NSA) welcomed the lifting of the rules, it called for farmers to remain vigilant as the virus could spread. NSA chief executive, Phil Stocker said: "Although this update is positive news, the NSA is keen to encourage farmers across the country to remain vigilant and aware of the risk of bluetongue, especially as the weather warms up into spring. Although the current outbreak has been isolated to parts of Kent and Norfolk, it is perfectly possible that the disease could be far reaching across the UK as the year progresses. "NSA encourages farmers across the country to access the Ruminant Health and Welfare Group and AHDB websites where a suite of useful resources and webinars on this subject can be found. "NSA is actively involved in both groups and continues to work with industry to ensure the sheep sector is well informed and prepared coming into spring." As from Monday, any farm in a former TCZ that is as yet untested will be placed under an individual holding restriction requiring a vet attestation that any animal being moved is not pregnant, or entire in the case of males. These animals will require negative BTV-3 tests prior to being moved. Castrated males and non pregnant females will be free to move to live and to slaughter. Farmers can call the dedicated bluetongue hotline to get advice or ask questions linked to the current situation on 024 7771 0386. In the UK, bluetongue is a notifiable disease, meaning anyone suspecting the disease must take action and report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The public overwhelmingly support British farmers, according to a new poll which underlines the importance of the issue to voters in an election year. Ahead of the next general election, 94% of respondents to a survey carried out by Deltapoll said it is important that the government backs British farming and food production. Meanwhile, 81% of people who took part said its important that the food they are buying is produced in Britain rather than imported from overseas. The poll, which was unveiled at the NFU Conference, also revealed that nearly half believe the amount of money being spent by government on farming should be increased. Responding to the results, NFU President Minette Batters said support for British food and farming would be a deciding factor in the general election. "All political parties should take note," Mrs Batters, who soon stands down as the NFU president, said. "This new research clearly shows two key things; first that food is something that connects with people, both in the head and the heart, and second that farming is important to everyone in this country, whether they live in rural areas or not. It comes as no surprise that the British public want whoever is in power to demonstrate how they plan to boost sustainable home-grown food production and care for the environment." It comes as the Conservatives are fighting to keep hold of their rural heartlands, with the latest poll showing the party is witnessing a 25-point collapse in support. The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and Survation poll shows Labour's vote share has climbed to 37%, up 17 points on the 2019 general election result, with the Tories falling to 34%. New legislation being laid in parliament today aims to ensure fair and transparent contracts for all dairy farmers in the UK. The new rules aim to establish transparency and accountability across the dairy supply chain by stopping contract changes being imposed without agreement. There will also be a system in place to enable farmers to verify the calculation of variable prices. Previously, dairy farmers have had little influence or power with regards to the terms under which they sell their milk. The regulations also include an enforcement regime, backed up by the ability for the Defra Secretary to impose substantial financial penalties in respect of any breaches. In response to ongoing campaigning by the UK's farming unions, the government held an industry-wide consultation in 2020 on the issue. It found unfair practices within the supply chain linked to buyers having the power to set and modify the terms of a contract with no negotiation with the producer and little notification. NFU dairy board chair, Michael Oakes said the voluntary code of practice had left many dairy farmers open to unfair practices and abuses of power. "Today marks a significant step in a long road of campaigning by the NFU and the other farming unions to improve fairness across the supply chain," he said. For a long time, unfair milk contracts have held back many UK dairy businesses, and these changes will help give dairy farmers much needed business security and confidence. "While progress has taken far longer than any of us hoped and expected, I am confident that, from today, we are finally on the right path to building a stronger, more resilient future for the UK dairy sector." The NFU believes that representative organisations, such as producer organisations, will play an important role in helping farmers negotiate contracts within the dairy sector. It said it would continue to support the development of representative structures like these to help improve trust and collaboration across the supply chain. The NFU, as well as NFU Scotland, the Ulster Farmers' Union and NFU Cymru, have been pushing for contract reform since 2011. NFU Scotland milk committee chair, Bruce Mackie noted that it had been a key ask of the industry for many years. "There will be a long road ahead and statutory contract legislation on its own will not solve all our problems," he said. The new regulations aim to enhance the position of the primary producer by establishing a legally binding, minimum standards of contractual practice, while also providing businesses with certainty in terms of their supply agreement with processors. Ulster Farmers Union dairy chair, Kenny Hawkes called it a major milestone following years of 'immense' industry lobbying. He added: "It will help to build a stronger, more resilient future for the Northern Ireland dairy sector, so farming families can continue to produce high-quality milk. What is included in the new dairy regulations? The regulations will mean: Farmers have clearer pricing terms, with contracts setting out the factors which generate the milk price and allowing farmers to challenge prices if they feel this process isnt being followed. Changes to contracts cant be imposed on farmers without their agreement. This will encourage dialogue between the parties where changes do need to be made improving trust within the supply chain. Farmers contracts will include a straightforward way to raise concerns about their contracts, promoting accountability and timely issue resolution. There will be clear rules put in place on notice periods and contractual exclusivity, protecting the rights of both buyers and sellers. An enforcement mechanism is created to guarantee the regulations are followed, ensuring a fully fair and transparent dairy industry on a solid foundation to thrive in the future. A new campaign group called 'No Farmers, No Food' says it will put pressure on the government to ensure British farming remains viable into the future. The group, which has attracted thousands of followers on social media after it was launched last month, says it is a "collection of farmers who are concerned that the future of farming is currently under threat." Founded by social media commentator James Melville, who comes from a farming background, the group has now officially set out its ambitions. Some of its asks include a fairer price for farmers, an end to cheaper, lower-quality imports and an end to restrictive legislation. Others include to move away with the government's 'obsession' with net zero, which is having a 'devasting impact' on farming. No Farmers, No Food says it is "not funded by any political organisation, are non-partisan and open to work with people across the whole political spectrum". It has already attracted the support of well-known personalities in the industry, such as Welsh farmer and social media star Gareth Wyn Jones. The group's launch comes following a series of protests across England, Scotland and Wales, as farmers grow increasingly concerned with the direction of government policy. In response to growing discontent, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak unveiled a package of grant support at the NFU Conference worth nearly 430m to help farmers boost their productivity. But James Melville, founder of No Farmers, No Food and a farmer's son who hails from Fife, said that "for too long the voices of farmers have been ignored or forgotten." "This campaign intends to give our farmers an amplified voice," he said, "Our food security depends on them." Gareth Wyn Jones said it was time to "build a better Britain with a farming food revolution", adding that the "top of the tree has to be saving British agriculture." Other farmers across the country have added their voice to the campaign, with Lincolnshire farmer Andrew Ward highlighting the industry's growing concern over cheaper imports. "Farmers are the guardians of the countryside at the same time as producing top quality food," he said. Here is our press release, mission statement and quotes from various farmers about our campaign objectives. The concerns of farmers and building public support will always be at the core of our objectives. Our food security depends on a strong farming industry.#NoFarmersNoFood pic.twitter.com/OIcmtY8K61 No Farmers, No Food (@NoFarmsNoFoods) February 19, 2024 "Currently imports are allowed which do not meet our own standards because they are produced with products and methods banned in the UK, this must stop." The group says a website will soon launch that outlines the specifics of its ambitions and asks. Tom Bradshaw has been elected as the new NFU president today, as Minette Batters steps down after six years in the role. Mr Bradshaw, an arable farmer from Essex, was elected the top job at the union after standing unopposed for the position. He has been a part of the NFU officeholder team for four years, having held both the vice president and deputy president positions. Joining him are David Exwood as the new deputy president and Rachel Hallos as vice president of the NFU, which represents more than 46,000 farmers and growers across England and Wales. Speaking at the NFU Conference, Mr Bradshaw said it was a 'deep honour' to be elected president of the NFU during a 'challenging time' for British agriculture. He said: Profitable production, and the stability and clarity which allows NFU members to plan for and reinvest in their farming and growing businesses will always be my priority. "This sits at the heart of delivering sustainable, high-quality and high-welfare food for our country. In the run up to the general election we have the overwhelming support of the public and all political parties must put a plan in place for home-grown food. I also want to focus on forging ever-closer connections with NFU members on the ground. My message to our membership is simple: this is your organisation. We need to hear your views and we need your input. United we are a powerful voice." He paid tribute to outgoing president Minette Batters for her "years of dedication to the NFU, service which has led to outstanding successes." The NFU's new deputy president David Exwood said the next two years would be key for the future of British agriculture. "It is essential that farmers are recognised by all political parties for the climate-friendly food they produce, economic contribution they make to rural communities and their role as caretakers of the countryside. Rachel Hallos, the new vice president, added that she was 'incredibly proud and grateful' to represent Britains farmers. As farmers are on the front line of climate change it is essential that profitability is built back into the sector, so we are able to invest in resilient businesses that are able to continue producing food for the nation," she said. "I look forward to working with Tom and David over the next two years to navigate the industry through times of much change. The Welsh government has said it would probably 'make changes' to its Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) amid growing discontent directed at it. Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths met with farming unions to discuss the post-Brexit scheme, which aims to reward farmers who boost the environment. The SFS, which has received huge backlash from farmers in recent weeks, stipulates, in its current form, that farmers must have at least 10% tree cover on their land. However, a recent impact assessment commissioned by the government found that the SFS risked reducing 122,000 livestock units, representing a 'shocking' 11% fall. In response, farmers have conducted go-slow tractor protests across Wales, and unions and organisations have held dozens of events and discussions, with some attracting thousands of participants. Just last week, dozens of concerned farmers protested outside Ms Griffiths' own office in Wrexham. Following the latest meeting with NFU Cymru and the Farmers' Union of Wales, she said "it was good to hear the feedback". The minister added: I meet with the farming unions regularly and I wanted to have a meeting as soon as possible after our SFS roadshows and theirs had been completed. Many of the issues discussed were common with those we heard from the 3,200 farmers whove attended the Welsh government events." The Welsh government is currently holding a consultation on the SFS, closing for responses on 7 March, which Ms Griffiths called a 'genuine consultation'. The Farmers Union of Wales, which has called for a rethink of the proposals, has called on farmers to respond to it. FUW President Ian Rickman said: As farmers, we understand the current strength of feeling and frustration of our members. "We expressed these deep concerns and the resentment felt by our members and the wider rural community to the minister in no uncertain terms. "The ball is now firmly in their court and we sincerely hope they take our requests seriously." Ms Griffiths said she expected the Welsh government to 'make changes' to the scheme as a result of the consultation's responses. "It is still open, and I would continue to urge people to take part and give us their views," she said, "We will consider every individual response. It is vitally important people take part in the consultation. Please do find time to respond as your views matter. Wiltshire Council has become the latest local authority to vote in support of a rural campaign that seeks to proactively back local farmers of all sectors. Councillors this week passed a motion ensuring that all catering at council-organised events is sourced from local suppliers, specifically including meat and dairy options, alongside fruit and vegetables. It will also commit the council to being vocal in opposing attempts to diminish the role our meat, dairy, and arable farmers play in our rural way of life. In addition, the motion also commits the authority to encouraging local residents to shop locally, where possible, taking advantage of home-grown produce, with an aim of reducing food miles to plates. Following a debate in the council chamber, the vote passed with 70 councillors voting in favour and three abstaining. The move comes after a string of other councils voted to ban meat and dairy items on council-catered menus elsewhere. It also comes following protests and mass meetings in Wales and Scotland in response to growing concerns about several areas of agricultural and rural policy. The council is the seventh in a matter of months to defy the vegan trend, after neighbouring Dorset Council voted to keep meat and dairy following a vote in December. Speaking at the meeting on Tuesday evening, Conservative Cllr Nabil Najjar, who introduced the motion, said: This motion sets up both a moral and practical position. "It sends a very clear message to our farmers and food producers: Wiltshire Council is on your side. He added: On the face of it, this motion is purely aimed at supporting farmers but the reality is that it goes so much further than that. "This is a motion which empowers the custodians of our countryside, it is a motion which shows our support for the people who invest their time and money in retaining the natural beauty of our landscape and providing the food that we eat. "It is a motion for those who enjoy the produce that our country delivers, whether its from those who buy it locally at farm shops or local markets, or even those who export it to wide audiences." The motion received cross party support, with Liberal Democrat Cllr Paul Sample saying: My father was a farmer, I grew up on a farm. "I spent the first 16 years of my life looking after animals. I am delighted that this motion has been brought today and I fully support it, and am enthusiastic about it. "When it comes to our food recipes, Id really like to see the council working with the farmers on what constitutes a Wiltshire menu using Wiltshire produce and old Wiltshire recipes. The Countryside Alliance had urged all of Wiltshires 98 councillors, regardless of political allegiance, to vote for the motion. Mo Metcalf-Fisher, director of external affairs for the group, said: We are so pleased to see yet another victory in this growing rural-common sense revolution. "We thank Nabil Najjar for getting this incredibly important motion through council, particularly as other councils are opting to ban meat and dairy." The brightest and hungriest black hole ever has been spotted in the distant universe. The hungriest black hole ever has been spotted (c) ESO/M. Kornmesser Astronomers say that quasar JO529-4351 is powered by a black hole 17 billion times the size of the Sun and is devouring the universe at a rate equivalent to one Sun each day. JO529-4351 was recorded in data several years ago but its true power has only recently been realised in observations by the Very Large Telescope in Chile. Christian Wolf, from the Australian National University, told BBC News: "We have discovered an object which has previously not been recognised for what it is: it's been staring into our eyes for many years because it's been glowing at its brightness for longer than humankind has probably existed. But we've now recognised it, not as being one of the many foreground stars in our Milky Way but as a very distant object." The world's tallest man and shortest woman have been reunited in California. Sultan Kosen and Jyoti Amge met in California earlier this week Sultan Kosen, who stands at 8 foot 3 inches tall, met with his fellow Guinness World Record holder Jyoti Amge, who is just over 2 foot tall, earlier this week as the difference in stature was laid bare. One of Kosen's feet is 14.3 inches and measures more than half of Amge's height. The pair had previously met up in Cairo back in 2018, when they visited the Pyramids of Giza together. Kosen, from Turkey, became the world's tallest living man in 2009 but grew normally until he was 10 - when a tumour caused him to develop a medical condition called pituitary gigantism that led to a massive growth spurt. Indian actress Amge's height is caused by a form of dwarfism called achondroplasia - meaning that she will never grow beyond a certain stature - and she became the world's shortest living female when she turned 18 in 2011. Amy Schumer feels her critics are upset that she's not "thinner" and "prettier". Amy Schumer has hit back at her critics The 42-year-old actress has faced lots of online hostility over the years, and Amy believes that trolls dislike her because of her outspoken attitude. During an appearance on the 'Not Skinny But Not Fat' podcast, Amy explained: "I think they're mad that I'm not thinner, I think they're mad I'm not prettier and that I still feel like I have a right to speak." Amy also believes that she's been a victim of misogyny. The Hollywood star said: "I think that they don't want any woman to speak. I mean, what woman has ever opened her mouth and not been torn to shreds?" Amy has actually struggled to deal with the criticism and the abuse over the years. She shared: "I could focus on that and it doesn't feel good when the whole Internet's mad at you. Don't get me wrong - it does not feel good and I don't wish that on anyone if they don't deserve it." Amy previously took to social media to fire back at her critics, after she was targeted by online trolls. The 'Trainwreck' star acknowledged online criticism of her "face and body" in a sarcastic post on X. Amy - who has more than four million followers on the micro-blogging platform - said in 2017: "Thank you, each and every one of you, on all of your feedback on my face and body. But sometimes I think it kind of backfires on the trolls because the other day somebody tweeted about me, Amy Schumers body looks like a bag of mashed potatoes, and I was like, Okay, now I need mashed potatoes, you know? And I had them!" DaVine Joy Randolph has pleaded for contributions so she can get five extra tickets for the Oscars so her family can attend the ceremony. DaVine Joy Randolph has pleaded for contributions so she can get five extra tickets for the Oscars so her family can attend the ceremony The 37-year-old Holdovers actress is up for a best supporting actress for playing grieving mum Mary in Alexander Paynes comedy drama about a bunch of schoolboys marooned in school over Christmas, and in London on Sunday (18.02.24) she was handed a BAFTA in the same category for her role in the movie. She said on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen about the upcoming Oscars, which will be held on 10 March at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles: If anyone would like to contribute to giving me an additional ticket that you may not need I need five tickets. DaVine made her initial comments about wanting to get more plus-ones for the ceremony in an interview with Vanity Fair earlier this month, telling the magazine: Theyre telling me I may only have one extra ticket, so thats my mission. Can you imagine the people in your life that are, like, I want to come! And youre, like, And you should come because youve helped me significantly in my life. If I can get five I dont care if my people are back there (on the balcony), I dont need five people in my row. Get Oscar tickets, or buy Oscar tickets, whatever weve got to do I have some family members that would be very upset, so Ive got to figure that out. The Holdovers has a total of five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and DaVine said at the BAFTAs she became fixated on portraying the complexities of an average woman in her part. She said on the red carpet of Londons Royal Festival Hall about her character, who is devastated over the death of her child in the movie: It was extremely important to show an average woman and to show all the nuances and all the complexities of what it is to be a woman, and a woman in the working class and a woman in a male dominated world. Hilary Swank was sleeping in a car before she found success in Hollywood. Hilary Swank slept in a car before finding success The 49-year-old actress has recalled leaving high school and travelling to Los Angeles in the hope of becoming a movie star. Hilary told the Wall Street Journal newspaper: "My mother had recently separated from my father, so we drove down to Los Angeles from Bellingham, Washington. "I began the process of breaking into the business. "In Los Angeles, my mother and I first lived in her Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme on quiet residential streets. When we werent sleeping in the car, we stayed at the house of a new friend my age whose family had just moved out and were trying to sell their home. We slept on an air mattress." Although success didn't come easily, Hilary relished the challenge of finding success in the TV and film business. The Oscar-winning star said: "Starting out, I booked just OK television parts, but I didnt care. I was excited to be living my dream." Hilary welcomed twins Aya and Ohm ten months ago, and she recently described motherhood as a "gift". The acclaimed actress - who stars in the new drama film 'Ordinary Angels' - told 'Extra': "So much of acting is empathising and really stepping in peoples shoes and seeing through their eyes. "I mean, I havent done a movie since having my babies with the strike and everything, so well see what it brings, but I just think that having babies makes you feel deeper everything. You just ... I think its such a gift. I dont know how else to say it." Hilary also revealed the inspiration behind the names of her children. She said: "We just met beautiful people in Lebanon and Syrian refugees, and so we thought this is a beautiful name and Ohm is a universal sound." Ariana Madix isn't ready to forgive Tom Sandoval for his cheating scandal. Ariana Madix has slammed Tom Sandoval The 38-year-old star split from Tom in 2023, after it emerged that he had a months-long affair with Rachel Leviss, and Ariana has now accused her ex-partner of refusing to accept responsibilities for his actions. Ariana said on 'Vanderpump Rules': "He still will not take responsibility for what he did. So ease up?! I'm not gonna be like, 'Hey everybody, it's me Ariana on my Instagram Story, if you guys could just like, be nice to my ex-boyfriend who did all these things...' that's not happening." Tom, 40, has spoken openly about his mental health struggles over the last year. And while Ariana has some sympathy for her ex-boyfriend, she also believes that he only has himself to blame. She said: "I can understand that he has had some thoughts and some feelings, but those thoughts and those feelings are based on a situation he created." By contrast, Rachel previously took to social media to apologise to Ariana. The TV star wrote on Instagram in 2023: "I want to apologize for my actions and my choices foremost to Ariana, and to my friends and the fans so invested in our relationships. There is no excuse, I am not a victim and I must own my actions and I deeply regret hurting Ariana. (sic)" Rachel, 29, also promised to reflect on her mistakes, admitting that she needed to make "healthier choices". She said: "I am reflecting on my choices, speaking to a counselor and I am learning things about myself such as my patterns of codependency and addiction to being and feeling loved. I have sought emotional validation through intimate connections that are not healthy without regard for my own well-being, sometimes negatively affecting others and often prioritizing the intimate connection over my friendships. I am taking steps to understand my behavior and make healthier choices. (sic)" And isn't it just so pretty to thinkAll along there was someInvisible stringTying you to me?Did you know that these Taylor Swift lyrics subtly echo an ancient Chinese proverb?According to this timeless wisdom, two souls destined for each other are connected by an invisible red thread, symbolising the intertwining of fate and love. Similarly, in Greek mythology, humans were once whole beings, split apart by Zeus and forever searching for their other half. Whether tied by a red thread or drawn together by mythic forces, the idea of destined love captivates our hearts and reminds us that some connections are simply meant to be, and thats where the Invisible String Theory comes into play.It's a romantic notion that suggests our love stories are written in the stars, waiting to unfold at the destined moment. So, when you encounter couples recounting how they first crossed paths, with anecdotes like, Little did we know, we had been going to the same dentist our entire lives, or Turns out, my mother was his high school teacher, it's tempting to chalk it up to mere coincidence. However, whether you call it serendipity, fate, or simply the universe playing matchmaker, it's all part of the enchanting tapestry woven by the Invisible String Theory. And the best part? It can manifest as friendship, romance, or any other meaningful connection.In a world where chaos often reigns supreme, finding solace in the notion that your person is hiding in plain sight, waiting for the universe's signal to cross paths with you, is truly magical. For hopeless and hopeful romantics alike, this theory resonates deeply, reminding us that love actually is all around.At the end of the day, isn't it just so pretty to think that all along, there was some invisible string tying you to your soulmate? To read the full story, become a PRIME member today. PRIME Unlimited Access to Insightful Industry Information All Corporate Members and TexPro Subscribers are eligible to access F2F PRIME CONTENT using the same login credentials. The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) of the UK has launched a detailed transition review of the anti-dumping duty on chamois leather imported from China. This review aims to assess the continuing relevance and effectiveness of the existing 58.9 per cent duty, initially established by the European Union, in meeting the UK's current economic and trade requirements. The TRA's investigation will cover transactions from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, focusing on determining whether the anti-dumping measure remains necessary to protect the domestic industry from unfair competition. Additionally, the review will examine the period from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023, to assess any injury or potential injury to the UK market caused by the imports in question, TRA said in a press release. Chamois leather, renowned for its absorbent qualities and minimal abrasive properties, is primarily used for drying surfaces, especially in automotive care. Crafted from the top split of sheepskin, lambskin, or other animal skins, this product has been a staple in European production since the 10th century. The UK's Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has initiated a review of the 58.9 per cent anti-dumping duty on Chinese chamois leather to evaluate its fit with the UK's economic and trade goals. The investigation spans transactions from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, aiming to determine the measure's necessity against unfair competition. Businesses that could be impacted by the continuation or alteration of this duty are encouraged to register their interest with the Trade Remedies Service by the deadline of March 6. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP) Social media, while a powerful tool for connectivity and expression, can also be a dangerous platform. From cyberbullying and misinformation to privacy breaches and online scams, there are various ways in which social media can pose risks to individuals and society as a whole.Vidya Balan reportedly lodged an FIR against an unknown person for creating a fake Instagram and Gmail account and posing as the Bollywood actress. The scammer used the profile to extort money from people by assuring them of job opportunities.As per multiple reports, the case came under scrutiny when an unknown person started asking for money, assuring people of jobs under Vidya Balans name. When the actress learned about the situation, she immediately lodged a complaint with the Mumbai police. One of the police officers said that an unknown person had also created a Gmail account and used these accounts to contact people from the industry, posing as the actress and luring them with promises of lucrative job opportunities.The FIR was registered at Khar police station under Section 66(C) of the IT Act, 2000. Under the act, whoever fraudulently or dishonestly makes use of the electronic signature, password, or any other unique identification feature of any other person shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term that may extend to three years and shall also be liable to a fine that may extend to Rs.1 lakh.On the work front, Vidya will next be seen in Do Aur Do Pyaar and has also been roped in for Blhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Renowned for her impactful roles in both South Indian and Hindi cinema, Multilingual Marvel Raashii Khanna's ascent to nationwide acclaim continues with her compelling performance in the upcoming Hindi action thriller, "Yodha." Collaborating with stars like Sidharth Malhotra, Raashii's journey exemplifies her versatility and talent, solidifying her position as a rising star in the Indian film industry. In "Yodha," slated for release on March 15th, Raashii's portrayal promises to be a highlight, as evidenced by the gripping teaser where her character confronts the intense situation of a plane hijack. This marks yet another milestone in her career, following notable performances in "Thiruchitrabalam" and "Sardar." Having shared screen space with esteemed actors like Dhanush Ajay Devgunand Shahid Kapoor, Raashii Khanna's presence commands attention. Her ability to seamlessly transition between languages and genres underscores her versatility and widespread appeal. As audiences eagerly anticipate the release of "Yodha," Raashii's trajectory only continues to soar. With her next projects including "Sabarmati Report" and "#TME," alongside Vikrant Massey, the actress is poised to solidify her position as a force to be reckoned with in the Indian film industry. Raashii recently wrapped up filming for "#TME" and shared her excitement about it on Instagram. In the realm of cinema, the fusion of narrative complexity and stellar performances elevates storytelling to new heights. "Karmma Calling" stands as a testament to this synergy, praised for its intricate plot twists and compelling character portrayals. To delve deeper into the alchemy behind the scenes, Filmibeat sat down with Panchami Ghavri, the astute casting director whose discerning eye shapes the on-screen personas. "Karmma Calling" has been praised for its intricate plot twists. How did you ensure that the selected cast members could effectively convey the complexities of the storyline through their performances? Karmma calling was a very exciting process for us, firstly because it's an ensemble cast, like Raveena Tandon, Rohit Roy, Viraf Patel and others. We wanted to put together not just a good-looking cast but also stellar performers- like Dash and Rachit who come from the Alibaug gang and an affluent background, Karmma is shrouded in mystery. Namrata(Karmma) did many rehearsals and we loved styling her look, her eyes are very expressive, and she can carry the stoic look very well. Gaurav Sharma was an interesting casting because he is paired with Raveena ji, so we needed someone with the same charm and talent as Raveena ji, this was crucial because the story has a lot of characters who take the story forward and having a good actor helps bring the character alive from paper to screen. Varun Sood's character, Ahaan, is depicted as a privileged boy seeking love. How did you navigate the casting process to find an actor who could authentically portray the complexities of Ahaan's character, and what drew you to Varun Sood for this particular role? Everyone loves Varun Sood, he is just so natural on screen. We had so many rehearsals and test looks with him because we wanted people to root for his character. His character although coming from a rich and privileged background, he is still very innocent which makes him a very lovable character. Instantly from the first test we loved him, and he set the bar for us for the character of 'Ahaan', and there was no turning back for us. Namrata Seth's character, is highlighted as a crucial casting in "Karmma Calling." Can you discuss the casting process for this character and what qualities you were specifically looking for in the actor who would bring Namrata's character to life? Namrata's character is the most important in the story as she plays the titular character. While we already had Raveena ji's character locked, we searched long and hard for our Karmma. But, funny story the first time I met Ruchi(the director) and showed her a picture of Namrata, we quickly realised she had the perfect look to play Karmma. She is pretty, she is mysterious and she is very innocent but there is just something about her that you can't figure out or put your finger on, and that's exactly how we wanted our Karmma to be and Namrata brings it out brilliantly. There is relatibilty to her personality and something that the audience can connect with. There were multiple screen tests and readings, it was a long and tedious process but in the end, we found our Karmma. The chemistry between Varun Sood's character, Ahaan, and Namrata Seth's character, is central to the storyline of "Karmma Calling." Can you elaborate on the casting process for these roles and how you ensured that Varun and Namrata had the on-screen chemistry necessary to bring their characters' relationship to life? We did multiple rounds of tests and readings with both Namrata and Varun separately and then we got them together and it turned out they had already crossed paths with each other and that helped immensely. There was instant camaraderie and comfort and that's what played out on the screen as well. Both of them worked very hard and did so many workshops to accurately depict their characters. What do you think about Varun Sood and Namrata Seth's on-screen chemistry? They have a very held-back chemistry, it's a very 'slow-burn" kind of romance. It just doesn't start with fire or fireworks, it builds on over time and there is a very deep, emotional angle to it, so it is a very natural, organic kind of chemistry, which is being loved by the audience too. "Gehraiyaan" is known for its intense and emotional narrative. How did you approach casting for a series that explores deep, complex emotions, and what were the key factors you considered when selecting the cast? Gehraiyaan was a very different and interesting narrative, we kept in mind that the actors understood the kind of film we were making. When we were casting for the leads, Dhairya was selected after various auditions and screen tests, but because the nature of the film was intense and thriller, we had to keep a lot of things under wrap, but we ensured the actors involved understood the world and tonality of the film, the story through and through, without giving away the suspense. Rajat Kapoor, having worked with him previously on Kapoor & Sons, did a phenomenal job as always. We always wanted him to be a part of the film, in one way or another. Even with Naseer Sahab, we had worked very closely with Ratna Ma'am on Kapoor & sons, so we just went for it and approached him. The final scene with Alisha(Deepika Padukone) and her father was very important and they both gave such brilliant performances. We touched upon deeply emotional and intense subjects like anxiety, and depression, which required careful and empathetic handling, Shakun Batra(the director)wanted to keep it as authentic as possible and I think we were able to translate it beautifully on screen. "Class" delved into the lives of students from different socio-economic backgrounds. Can you discuss the challenges and considerations involved in casting actors to authentically portray characters from diverse social settings? That's a great question. "Class" came to us at a very interesting point in our lives, it came to us during the pandemic-induced lockdown, at the beginning of April 2020, when we all were in our homes and grappling with the new change. Especially for a casting job, it is a very hands-on job where you meet the artists in person and at studios and there are instinctive decisions. I especially love working from the office. For the casting of 'Class', we cast a very wide net and searched in various cities and regions and not just Mumbai. The approach we took for casting was that we made it Pan-India and open to all, no matter whether a fresher or more experienced person, there was no pre-requisite at all. We carefully selected each actor and moulded them into the characters that you see today. A lot of credit goes to Ashim Ahluwalia(the director) who conducted the workshops with each actor and understood the project very well. For us, our biggest challenge was conducting the auditions remotely. The whole cast met each other once everything was finalised which was an unusual setting for us because usually before finalising the roles, the actors go through various screen tests, rehearsals and readings with each other. It all worked out very well for us, all the actors gave a very good performance and I'm really happy and satisfied with the choices we made. Your casting work in "Kapoor & Sons" received acclaim for its authenticity and the chemistry between the ensemble cast. Can you share insights into your approach to casting such a diverse range of characters within a family dynamic? Casting for Kapoor & Sons is one of my fondest memories. It was my first experience working with a director(Shakun Batra)who was so collaborative. Shakun really bestowed his faith in me and let us think instinctively, creatively and out of the box, which is not a luxury you always get. We put so much of ourselves into picking the right actor to portray such a beautifully dysfunctional family. Each character has its bits and quirks which makes them so memorable. The plumber in the famous 'plumber scene' came very nicely on screen. We had initially cast another actor for the role, but unfortunately, he couldn't make it, so we called in another guy who is supposed to have a funny broken tooth. We wanted a guy who could crack the timing and indeed he did! The actor(Amarjeet) was so effortless and he went on to do some amazing roles in Mirzapur and other series. We were very honoured when Dharma invited us to a press conference and invited Amarjeet too, it was a huge compliment as he had become such a memorable iconic character. Shakun was just so trusting of us and went with our pick and that's what made the scene what it is today- hilarious and memorable. There are lots of beautiful memories of Kapoor & Sons and it was a wonderful experience. Prajakta Kohli and Rohit Saraf have garnered praise for their performances as Rishi and Dimple in "Mismatched." Can you share insights into the casting process for these characters and what qualities you saw in Prajakta and Rohit that made them perfect fits for their respective roles? 'Mismatched' also came to us as a clear palette, as in nobody was finalised for any of the roles. We went through a tedious process of auditions and screen tests, readings including that of Dimple(Prajakta Kohli) and Rishi's(Rohit Saraf) roles. I think what worked well for Prajakta was that she had a good experience being on camera, so it was effortless, and she cracked it like that. Fitting like a glove. She was a big personality in the YouTube world, but she was still fresh to the OTT world, so it was an exciting opportunity for her as well. For Rohit, it felt like he was inherently a royal or a "Shekhawat" from Jaipur, he had the perfect polishness, urbanness and charm. He had already worked on big projects like Dear Zindagi and Sky is Pink, so he was very apt at adapting the role of Rishi and he had exactly what we wanted for the character. Both the characters were so opposite to each other but still made for each other, and the actors played it out brilliantly and the rest is history! We are currently shooting for season 3 so it was a massive hit not just in terms of pairing but for everyone involved in the project. Can you share a bit about your journey into the world of casting? What initially sparked your interest in this field, and how did you navigate your way into becoming a casting director? I just kind of stumbled into it. I was assisting Nandini Srikind on Wake Up Sid and then casting sort of just happened for me. To be honest, I was instinctive about it. I felt like this was something I could do independently and on my own, and I could do it well. And so I just sort of followed my instinct. I went abroad and studied in New York. I came back and then I just decided that I wanted to carve my path. And that's how casting happened for me. As a casting director, you play a crucial role in bringing characters to life on screen. What do you find most rewarding about your job, and what challenges do you typically face during the casting process? I think the most rewarding part of my job is that I get to make so many dreams come true. I think when me and my team read something on paper and then we finally go and see the product, it's an amazing feeling. For instance, when 'Class' came out, the feeling that we had, we were feeling so proud to have been, put in this work for people to see it, for people to appreciate it. So I think that and we got so much appreciation for the cast. I think challenges are usually when stressful moments happen, so usually when we are racing against time or the shoot is too close and we haven't been able to crack some casting. I think I generally take on stress very easily and my standards of delivery of myself are very high. Those can sometimes become very challenging and of course, they take a little bit of a toll on my personal life. As a casting director, what do you believe sets apart a good actor from a great one? I think what sets apart a good actor from a great one is the fact that the great ones never stop-never stop learning and growing. For instance, even today when you meet certain actors, they are like Rajkumar Rao. I just worked with him on "Mr. & Mrs. Mahi." He's just like that; he has so many notes on his script, and the journey of learning has never really stopped. And I think that, you know, the minute you become too big for your shoes or you become bigger than the craft, then you're no longer learning or growing. So I think that's where greatness comes from. Till today, I've heard that Amitabh Bachchan is still extremely punctual when he comes to set, and he preps a lot. And I think that's what makes him so great. In your opinion, how important is it for actors to have formal training or education in acting, versus natural talent and raw potential? I am completely a big and firm believer in formal training and education in acting. I think very, very rarely do you find that kind of raw potential and even that kind of raw potential needs training. Like in any other, that you would want to do, you would have to get formal training, it's the same in acting. I think that everybody who wants to become an actor needs to train how to act and needs to be on top of watching a lot of content and seeing what their contemporaries are doing, it is a very important part of the profession. How do you stay updated with emerging talent in the industry, and what factors do you consider when deciding to take a chance on a newcomer? I watch a lot of content. Anything and everything. Also, social media platforms can sometimes be a way for us to source talent, but social media platforms unfortunately will not tell you if an actor is good or not. I think, again, the factor that you would consider deciding to take a chance on a newcomer is very instinctive and it depends on the time that they walk into the office, how hardworking they are, how passionate they are, how many times they're willing to redo the scene if required. I think your attitude also takes you a long way. I think that people want to bet on people who are ready to put in the work and give that 100% if they're going to be mounting a series or a film on them. So, from the time that you walk into a casting office, every single thing that you do matters to someone deciding if they should take a chance on you casting out. Casting couch allegations have long plagued the industry. Have you ever encountered instances where actors or actresses attempted to leverage their personal relationships with you to secure roles? How do you handle such situations while maintaining professionalism? Honestly, I'm a girl boss, so it doesn't happen to me. I've heard of stories where people have felt uncomfortable or been made to feel uncomfortable, but it's not happened in and around me. Actors are of course trying to build relationships, so they may ask me to meet me or catch up over lunch, but I don't think that's anything other than just trying to build a rapport. But apart from that, me and my team have never encountered any uncomfortable situation or an attempt to leverage their relationships. The chemistry between actors is crucial for on-screen success but sometimes sparks fly off-screen as well. Can you share any instances where you noticed undeniable chemistry between co-stars during auditions or rehearsals? I mean, not, when many times people share test screens, we are very sharp with noticing all subtle cues, and most of the time an actor trying to help out another fellow actor. I think "off-screen" chemistry is very normal, and it happens in all fields of life. When you work so closely with someone, people tend to get attached and sometimes it blossoms into romance and that is something that's been in the industry for many years. Raha Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, welcomed their first child, Raha, into the world on November 6, 2022. The arrival of their daughter marked a significant milestone in their personal lives, drawing widespread excitement and well-wishes from fans and the industry alike. However, it was during the Kapoor family's traditional Christmas lunch in Juhu, Mumbai, that the couple chose to introduce their precious bundle of joy, Raha, to the world. This heartfelt Christmas revelation delighted fans and media alike, as the Kapoor-Bhatt family came together to celebrate the holiday season and share the joy of their newest family member. The event garnered immense attention and warmth, with images and videos of the proud parents doting on little Raha circulating across social media platforms. The couple's decision to introduce their daughter during this special occasion added an extra layer of significance to the festivities, symbolizing love, unity, and the joy of new beginnings. Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor's journey into parenthood captured the imagination of fans, who eagerly awaited glimpses of their adorable daughter and shared in the couple's happiness. The introduction of Raha marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Kapoor-Bhatt family, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories as they embarked on the journey of parenthood together. BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With the continuous development of services, people have higher requirements on communication experience. Carriers are looking to make early gains in the 5.5G era by transitioning from traffic-based monetization to experience-oriented monetization. To facilitate this transition, Huawei has developed the Intelligent Personalized Experience (IPE) solution based on the 5.5G Core, and will officially unveil it at this year's Mobile World Congress (MWC). New services, represented by short videos, live streaming, cloud applications, and VR/AR, pose differentiated requirements on networks. Live streaming requires a large uplink bandwidth for clear, smooth video playing, so as to prevent economic loss from unsatisfactory events. Services such as cloud phones, cloud gaming, and cloud photographing are sensitive to latency, while VR services, like those for videos and games require a guaranteed downlink bandwidth. All of these new services attract users who are inclined to pay extra fees for a better experience, and opens the floodgates for carriers to monetize differentiated experiences. Carriers have shifted their focus from enabling fundamental communications in 2G/3G to traffic monetization in 4G and now on service experience monetization with 5G. As services evolve, carriers follow suit by updating their service plans to deliver an optimal experience to users. A 2G/3G service plan usually includes a limited number of calling minutes and SMSs, a 4G service plan often contains a data package, and a 5G service plan is composed of more services to fit into the differentiated service scenarios. Experience monetization requires that the experience of user is evaluated and guaranteed in real time. The traditional service experience assurance solution faces three breakpoints: User experience cannot be evaluated, encrypted services cannot be accurately identified, and user experience cannot be accurately perceived. The QoS guarantee based on static subscription can only implement static optimization. The operation is not closed-loop, users cannot perceive the assurance effect. To address this, Huawei provides the IPE solution. IPE leverages the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) centric intelligence plane of the core network as well as intrinsic intelligence in other core network NFs to identify services accurately, evaluate related experiences in real time, and generate immediate experience reports. The IPE solution ensures that user experience can be accurately assessed, dynamically optimized and better monetized. MWC 2024 will run from February 26 to 29 in Barcelona, Spain. At this year's MWC, Huawei will showcase innovative 5G services and experiences, and release innovative 5.5G core network products and solutions. Huawei will continue to innovate, to deliver ultimate service experience to consumers and help carriers achieve continuous business success. CONTACT: Dongming.Yin@huawei.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2343324/image_5001747_37686709.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mwc-2024--5-5g-cores-ipe-helps-carriers-transition-towards-experience-monetization-302066023.html TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / Velox Energy Materials Inc. (TSXV:VLX) ("Velox" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of a major metallurgical testwork program on vanadium samples from the Cambridge Vanadium deposit in Queensland. Highlights Appointment of leading process engineers, BHM Process Consultants, to oversee the metallurgical program across the Cambridge deposit. Representative core samples from the recent diamond drilling program selected to assess different mineralogical zones within the prospective Toolebuc Formation. Samples have been submitted to Brisbane Met Labs (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium deposits. BML has multiple years in the analysis of Vanadium ores from Northern Queensland, which also includes being awarded an Industry Innovation grant for the establishment of a -vanadium pilot plant to process ore into vanadium pentoxide for the VRFB industry. Results from the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024. Metallurgical Testwork Program Perth-based BHM Process Consultants (BHM) have been appointed to oversee the metallurgical testwork program for the Cambridge Vanadium Project in North Queensland, Australia. BHM has excellent experience in processing from metallurgical testwork through to flowsheet design and plant commissioning. A total of 12 composite samples were created from the recent diamond drilling program, from 4 drillholes that represent the bulk of the defined Cambridge deposit. Each composite represents different mineralogical zones within the Toolebuc Formation that host the vanadium mineralisation. The samples will be analysed by Brisbane Met Labs, (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland Vanadium deposits. In 2021, BML was awarded an Industry Innovation grant by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources in Australia for the building and commissioning of a Vanadium Pilot Plant to allow processing of ore into Vanadium Pentoxide for the International Vanadium Redox Flow Battery market. The results of the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024 and will be used to guide the next stages of development of the project. Velox's President and CEO, Simon Coyle, commented: "Velox has been selective in the engagement of metallurgical consultants as well as the laboratory being utilized, to ensure we have the appropriate knowledge base to perform our maiden met testwork. BML have significant expertise in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium ores, which provides us with the confidence we have the best in class to conduct the analysis of our Cambridge Mineral Resource. Velox's goal is to have a process flow for our ores that creates world class recoveries, coupled with a low operating cost base. "Given the relatively homogenous nature of the Toolebuc Formation across the region, we are confident that the metallurgical testwork program will deliver positive results and allow us to progress to the next stage of studies." Qualified Persons The Velox Energy Materials technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) and reviewed and approved on behalf Velox Energy Materials by Michael Griffiths, FAusIMM, Director & VP Exploration for Velox Energy Materials, a Qualified Person. About Velox Energy Materials Velox Energy Materials is a publicly traded energy materials company developing and progressing high-value assets in resource and research-friendly jurisdictions. The Company's priority focus is the advanced NQV Project in Queensland, Australia. The NQV Project hosts the Cambridge Deposit with an CIM compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 61.33 Mt @ 0.34% V2O5 and 234.6 ppm MoO3 along with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 144.87 Mt @ 0.33% V2O5 (cut-off grade of 0.25% V2O5) and 241.9 ppm MoO3 (Dufresne et al., 2022). The Company is targeting shallow, high-grade mineralisation that can be developed using low-cost mining and processing options. The Company additionally owns Kotai Energy and the option to acquire 100% of the intellectual property rights associated with the Solid-State Hydrogen Storage Project from Curtin University in Western Australia. Kotai is focused on the commercialisation of technology that can produce high-pressure hydrogen following transport as an inert powder. In October 2023, the Company acquired a package of tenements that are prospective for lithium in eastern Quebec. Please visit our website at www.veloxenergymaterials.com.au for further information. Approved by the Board of Velox Energy Materials Inc. Simon Coyle President & CEO +1 416-214-7577 Investor Relations Contact Andrew Rowell Investor Relations - Australia M: +61 400 466 226 Email: andrew@whitenoisecomms.com Forward Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's expectations, estimates and projections regarding its business and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements about the closing of the transaction, expected terms of the transaction, the number of securities of Velox Energy Materials that may be issued in connection with the transaction, and the parties' ability to satisfy closing conditions and receive necessary approvals are all forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements and readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them publicly to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances, unless otherwise required to do so by law. SOURCE: Velox Energy Materials Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com FALLS CHURCH (dpa-AFX) - General Dynamics European Land Systems - Steyr said that it has been awarded a contract to deliver an additional 225 PANDUR 6x6 EVO wheeled armored vehicles to the Austrian Armed Forces. The contract has an initial value of 1.2 billion euros or US$1.3 billion. The company said it already has 100 PANDUR EVO vehicles under contract, with the third batch currently in production and delivery. In addition to the delivery of state-of-the-art personnel carriers and flexible conversion kits for medical, and command & control missions, the order includes eight new vehicle variants, including vehicles equipped with a 120 mm mortar combat system, as well as mobile air defense and electronic warfare variants. 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. Tampa, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2024) - Quasar Markets, a leading AI-driven financial market research platform, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Ausecure, a tech company renowned for offering tangible investment opportunities in precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. Quasar Markets Announces Strategic Partnership with Ausecure To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/197870_9d5e79ade4f4bb5f_002full.jpg This partnership is poised to revolutionize the way investors approach the precious metals market, combining Quasar Markets' cutting-edge artificial intelligence research capabilities with Ausecure's robust platform for trading in gold, silver, and platinum. In a statement, Steven E. Orr, Founder & CEO of Quasar Markets, expressed his excitement about the partnership: "This collaboration with Ausecure marks a significant milestone in our journey to integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional investment avenues. By leveraging future tech, we aim to enhance the value and accessibility of investing in precious metals, making it a more attractive option for our clients. Together, we are setting a new standard for innovation and excellence in the financial industry." Peter Thomas Chairman at Ausecuere is very excited about the technical outcomes from the potential partnership. "This means we are offering innovative and secure options with hard assets for individuals aiming to safeguard their wealth against the uncertainties of the markets during this critical election year." Hadi Saeid, Founder of Ausecure, also commented on the partnership stating, "Our partnership with Quasar Markets is about enhancing access and democratizing ownership of physically backed assets like gold and silver." About Quasar Markets Quasar Markets offers innovative solutions for researching financial markets, providing unparalleled insights and personalized client experiences. With a next-gen AI & Web3 platform and strategic partnerships with industry leaders, Quasar Markets is reimagining the future of finance. For more information, visit: https://quasarmarkets.com/. About Ausecure Founded in 2009 at the CME Group, Ausecure is a buyer and seller of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The company focuses on providing competent 2-way markets in metals, characterized by its commitment to discretion, precision, and efficient execution. Contact Info: Name: Steven E. Orr Email: steven@quasarmarkets.com Organization: Quasar Markets Address: Wesley Chapel, Florida 33543, US Phone: +1 (202) 841-9009 Website: http://www.quasarmarkets.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197870 SOURCE: Plentisoft Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2024) - iMining Technologies Inc. (TSXV: IMIN) (the "Company" or "iMining"), a leader in the future technology landscape of Canada, today announced the appointment of Janice Fischer to the Advisory Board of its artificial intelligence subsidiary, AiMining Technologies. With a distinguished career that spans over 25 years at IBM and significant contributions to the technology sector, Fischer is set to steer AiMining towards new heights in artificial intelligence innovation. Fischer's leadership roles at IBM Cloud, Global Technology Services (now Kyndryl), and Isidore Partners LLC have equipped her with strategic insights into technology's evolving landscape. She has been instrumental in creating and delivering complex technology implementations globally for both clients and product development at IBM. She is equally steeped in accomplishments that have enhanced operational efficiency and highly secure operations. Fischer's deep experience equips her with a unique perspective on technology's role in shaping the future. Janice serves on multiple boards including the Institute on Governance and is part of the Steering Committee for the Council for Countering Hybrid Warfare. Reflecting on her new role, Janice Fischer shared her vision for AiMining Technologies: "I'm thrilled to be part of a team that stands at the forefront of AI innovation. The potential of artificial intelligence to transform industries is immense, and AiMining Technologies is in a great position to lead this change. My goal is to leverage our collective expertise to not only advance AI technology ,but also ensure its responsible development and application for a better future." Khurram Shroff, CEO of iMining Technologies, expressed his excitement about Fischer's joining: "Janice's exceptional track record and strategic insight into the tech world make her an invaluable addition to our team. Her vision for AiMining aligns perfectly with our goals, and we're eager to see the heights her leadership will take us to." Fischer's appointment marks a significant milestone for AiMining Technologies, emphasizing the company's dedication to innovation and leadership in the ever-evolving AI sector. Her leadership is expected to drive AiMining Technologies toward achieving its mission of pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence, ensuring the company's position as a leader in the field. About iMining Technologies Inc. iMining Technologies Inc. is a publicly listed technology company that acquires, builds, and manages future technology companies in Canada. The Company's industry-specific technology businesses provide specialized and innovative solutions in future technologies and serve private sector markets. iMining Technologies Inc. is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. About AiMining Technologies Inc. AiMining Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of iMining Technologies Inc., is a start-up at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation. Comprising a dedicated applied research lab focused on collaboration with esteemed institutions and a commercialization program geared towards market engagement, AiMining seamlessly integrates into iMining's technology portfolio and is committed to advancing responsible AI development. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Signed "Khurram Shroff" Khurram Shroff, President & CEO FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, please contact: iMining Corporate Offices: Saleem Moosa, CFO and Director Email: investor@imining.com Telephone: 1-604-602-4935 Toll-Free: 1-866-602-4935 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/198685 SOURCE: iMining Technologies Inc. LAKEWOOD, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / Open Automation Software (OAS) is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation: a cutting-edge Sparkplug B interface designed to redefine the standards of integration and communication within the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) landscape. This strategic update to the OAS platform signifies a pivotal advancement in the way industries connect, monitor, and manage their operational data across diverse systems and devices. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Ken Eldridge, OAS has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation, dedicated to providing robust and scalable solutions that meet the ever-evolving needs of industrial automation. The introduction of the Sparkplug B interface is a testament to OAS's commitment to enhancing interoperability and data coherence in industrial IoT ecosystems. Seamless Integration Across Diverse Systems The Sparkplug B protocol, known for its ability to standardize MQTT data transport, is now fully integrated into the OAS platform, offering users a seamless and unified approach to managing their IoT devices and data streams. This interface empowers OAS users to achieve bi-directional communication with all tags in the OAS Engine, utilizing a variety of Sparkplug B identifiers. This level of integration facilitates a more cohesive and efficient operational environment, enabling industries to leverage real-time data for informed decision-making and enhanced operational efficiency. Comprehensive Support for a Wide Range of Data Sources OAS's Sparkplug B interface supports an extensive array of data sources, including industry-leading PLCs such as Allen Bradley, Siemens S7, and Modbus, as well as OPC UA, OPC DA, MTConnect, and more. This comprehensive compatibility ensures that businesses can effortlessly connect and manage their diverse devices and data systems, fostering a more connected and efficient industrial landscape. Advanced Bi-Directional Communication Capabilities With the Sparkplug B interface, OAS introduces advanced bi-directional communication features that allow for not only the monitoring of data but also the control of IoT devices directly from the OAS platform. This capability is essential for industries that require dynamic and responsive control environments, where data from IoT devices can be immediately acted upon to optimize processes and ensure operational continuity. Enhanced Connectivity with Third-Party MQTT Brokers Recognizing the importance of flexibility in IoT deployments, OAS's Sparkplug B interface is designed to connect with any third-party MQTT Broker that supports MQTT V3.11 or V5.0. This open approach to connectivity ensures that businesses can choose the best tools for their specific needs, without being locked into a single vendor or ecosystem. Empowering Users with Comprehensive Guides and Resources To ensure that users can fully leverage the new Sparkplug B interface, OAS provides detailed guides and resources, including step-by-step instructions for setting up Sparkplug B communications. These resources are designed to empower users, regardless of their technical expertise, to implement and benefit from the advanced capabilities of the OAS platform. About Open Automation Software Open Automation Software, based in Lakewood, Colorado, is a leading provider of industrial automation software solutions, with a commitment to innovation, reliability, and excellence. For over two decades, OAS has been dedicated to empowering businesses worldwide with the tools and insights needed to optimize their operations and drive growth. Media Contact Organization: Open Automation Software Contact Person: George Website: https://www.openautomationsoftware.com Email: support@openautomationsoftware.com Contact Number: +13036790898 City: Lakewood State: Colorado Country: United States SOURCE: Open Automation Software View the original press release on accesswire.com New Jersey, United States--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2024) - Leonard Financial Solutions, a provider of retirement planning services, is proud to introduce a revolutionary retirement income planning tool. With a focus on personalized guidance and a comprehensive approach to financial security, this new tool, "Two-Bucket Strategy," is designed to empower individuals toward a secure and fulfilling retirement. Leonard Financial Solutions Introduces Innovative Retirement Planning Tool To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/198690_25ffd59754add8fc_002full.jpg The primary goal of Leonard Financial Solutions' new retirement income planning tool is to help individuals effectively plan for and achieve their retirement income goals. This innovative tool achieves this by employing a unique framework centered around two distinct buckets: the Growth Bucket and the Protected Bucket. The Growth Bucket: The Growth Bucket within the retirement income planning tool focuses on accumulating assets and generating potential growth. These products may include: Stocks: Providing the possibility of gradual growth over an extended period. Mutual Funds: Diversified investment options aimed at delivering capital appreciation. Bonds: Provides balance in most portfolios for volatility. The Protected Bucket: In contrast, the Protected Bucket is designed to prioritize the security and protection of the principal/premium. This bucket includes products that aim to offer stability, protection against market volatility, and a focus on preserving capital. Customers can find peace of mind with products such as: Fixed Index Annuities CDs (Certificates of Deposit): Providing a secure, fixed-interest investment with principal protection. Bank Money Market Accounts and Cash Founder Jonathan Leonard was recently interviewed on this topic on the Business Innovators Radio Network, where he discussed the importance of incorporating protected income strategies for retirees. Clients can access Leonard Financial Solutions' cutting-edge retirement income planning tool through a team of experienced financial professionals. By engaging in comprehensive discussions and consultations, individuals can tailor a retirement income plan aligned with their needs, preferences, and risk tolerance. Its holistic approach to retirement income planning sets Leonard Financial Solutions apart. Individuals can benefit from a balanced and customized approach to securing retirement income by integrating growth-oriented and protected assets within a comprehensive framework. Additionally, their team's commitment to personalized guidance and support ensures that customers receive tailored solutions that address their unique financial circumstances and aspirations for retirement. With a focus on education, transparency, and customer-centric service, Leonard Financial Solutions is a trusted partner in guiding individuals toward a financially secure retirement. The new retirement income planning tool offered by Leonard Financial Solutions represents a significant advancement in empowering individuals to achieve their retirement goals. By embracing a balanced approach to growth and protection, individuals can confidently navigate retirement planning, ensuring a fulfilling and financially secure future. https://youtu.be/jy-JxJ-x0sE About Leonard Financial Solutions: Jonathan Leonard founded Leonard Financial Solutions in 2017 out of his strong desire to improve the lives of everyone he meets. Leonard Financial Solutions' primary focus is retirement planning for people ages 55 and over. Jonathan has worked for non-profit companies and church ministries in the past, and the company is committed to donating 10% of all their profits to 501c3 charities and organizations. Leonard Financial Solutions has clients nationwide and is licensed in all 50 states. Learn More at Leonard Financial Solutions Contact Info: Name: Jonathan Leonard Email: jonathan@leonardfs.com Organization: Leonard Financial Solutions Website: https://www.leonardfinancialsolutions.com/ Video URL: https://youtu.be/jy-JxJ-x0sE To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198690 SOURCE: Plentisoft Mobileum will deploy an integrated Connected Car suite, including Connectivity Management Platform, IoT Fraud Management & IoT Service Assurance Solutions CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobileum Inc. ("Mobileum"), a leading global provider of telecom analytics solutions, is pleased to announce that NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), an NTT Group subsidiary, selected Mobileum to provide the technology platform to deliver its connected car solutions to a global car OEM business case. Mobileum provides connectivity management, connectivity testing and fraud prevention solutions for the connected car market. The solution provides an integrated approach, for eSIM connectivity management, quality testing and fraud detection and prevention across NTT Com connected cars portfolio. According to Juniper Research, the number of connected cars is projected to surge by 91%, reaching 367 million by 2027, up from 192 million in 2023. Car manufacturers are increasingly providing connected car infotainment, safety, and utility services to create new digital revenue streams and enhanced customer experiences. To ensure the security and quality of these services, manufacturers require a platform for testing connectivity, expanding digital services, and safeguarding end-customers. NTT Com will rely on Mobileum's integrated solution, combining a Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) with Service Assurance and Fraud Management solutions to deliver a consistent and high-quality customer journey for car manufacturers. This will allow NTT Com to deploy, test, and secure extensive connected infrastructures, meeting the evolving needs of the automotive industry. With the proliferation of digital services and the expanding connected car fleet, the automotive industry faces heightened concerns regarding continuous connectivity, introducing security and fraud risks that can adversely affect various stakeholders, including car manufacturers, businesses, and consumers. The surge in data generated by connected cars places corporate commercial fleets at an increased vulnerability to potential ransomware threats. Consumer privacy, security, and personal data are now more exposed to potential fraudsters. To address these challenges, car manufacturers are particularly susceptible to ransomware attacks. With the implementation of a combined Connectivity Management Platform and IoT Fraud Management solution, NTT Com can mitigate these risks, ensuring a safe and secure IoT connectivity experience for its advanced vehicles and mobility customers. Mobileum's IoT Fraud Management solution leverages Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence and continuously learns from data processed by the system, enabling NTT Com to assess potential risks, define controls, monitor events, and implement and track remediation plans on demand. Its advanced analytical capabilities provide NTT Com with real-time, end-to-end visibility to avoid significant risk events and prevent potential losses. Mobileum's IoT Service Assurance solution responds to the rapid expansion of IoT devices across diverse markets. This empowers OEMs to deliver reliable services not only domestically but also internationally, ensuring comprehensive coverage and seamless service continuity for IoT deployments. Mobileum's solution assesses IoT services on both core and radio network infrastructures, conducting end-to-end testing of platform connectivity, data transfer, data integrity, and application monitoring, while also validating power-saving features for IoT devices. "As part of our mission to deliver high-value solutions to our enterprise customers, NTT Com is focused on ensuring an optimal customer experience. We chose Mobileum because they demonstrated an extensive understanding of our customers' needs as well as our requirements and showed proven expertise along the connectivity management, testing and fraud prevention. Mobileum's connected car solutions are flexible, forward-looking, and expand our capacity to provide car connectivity in good quality and visibility with fraud prevention, which will ultimately help improve customer experience." stated Yuji Tamai, Director of 5G&IoT Services, NTT Communications. "As the connected car market keeps growing, IoT connectivity management, connected car testing, assurance and fraud prevention will be key priorities for the automotive industry. Service providers like NTT Communication are in a unique position to accelerate the connected car market growth, delivering fast, dependable, and safe connectivity. Mobileum is excited to play a pivotal role in expanding their underlying connectivity management, testing, security, and fraud prevention capabilities", stated Raja Hussain, Chief Revenue Officer at Mobileum, "Mobileum is committed to its presence in Japan and has incorporated a local subsidiary, Mobileum Japan KK in 2022 to continue to invest more in Japan." To learn more about Mobileum's IoT & Connected Car solutions, visit Mobileum's stand (Hall 2J50) at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, from February 26-29, 2024. About Mobileum Inc. Mobileum is a leading provider of Telecom analytics solutions for roaming, core network, security, risk management, domestic and international connectivity testing, and customer intelligence. More than 1,000 customers rely on its Active Intelligence platform, which provides advanced analytics solutions, allowing customers to connect deep network and operational intelligence with real-time actions that increase revenue, improve customer experience, and reduce costs. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Mobileum has global offices in Australia, Germany, Greece, India, Japan, Portugal, Singapore, UK, and United Arab Emirates. Learn more in https://www.mobileum.com/ and follow @MobileumInc on Twitter About NTT Communications NTT Communications solves global technology challenges by helping enterprises utilize managed IT-infrastructure solutions to overcome complexity and risk in their IT environments. These solutions are backed by our worldwide infrastructure, including industry-leading, global tier-1 public and private networks reaching over 190 countries/regions, the world's most advanced data-center facilities (more than 500,000m2) and cutting-edge technologies for cloud, security and AI. As the core provider of the DOCOMO group's enterprise-business services and solutions, we create value by providing global-scale support for restructuring in industry and society, new workstyles and digital transformation in communities, leveraging 5G, IoT and other technologies under the "docomo business" brand. Together with NTT Ltd., NTT Data and NTT DOCOMO, we are the NTT Group. Learn more in https://www.ntt.com/en/about-us/ Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1431792/Mobileum_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mobileum-selected-as-a-technology-platform-for-ntt-communications-global-connected-car-project-302065046.html Cutting-edge therapy shows meaningful improvements in muscle strength, function and fatigue resistance, offering hope for millions suffering from sarcopenia DIEPENBEEK, Belgium, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rejuvenate Biomed NV ("Rejuvenate Biomed"), a pioneering clinical-stage platform and pipeline company committed to enhancing lifelong health through innovative therapeutics, today announces breakthrough functional outcome results from its Phase 1b trial of lead candidate RJx-01 for the treatment of sarcopenia. Sarcopenia, a condition affecting up to 22% of 65-year-olds and 50% of 80-year-olds, is characterized by the progressive loss of muscle strength and physical performance. This decline not only impacts the quality of life but also elevates the risk of falls, disability, and mortality, particularly among the older population. RJx-01 is a proprietary combination drug that was identified by the Company's in-house drug discovery platform and has shown to have beneficial effects on various preclinical models of sarcopenia[1]. The recent exploratory clinical trial results, which follow earlier confirmation of safety and tolerability and pharmacokinetics[2], highlight the potential of RJx-01 in addressing the unmet need for effective sarcopenia treatments. The key findings of the Phase 1b trial with RJx-01 reveal promising functional outcomes: Improved strength: Participants with disuse-induced sarcopenia treated with RJx-01 exhibited a promising improvement in muscle strength recovery compared to the placebo group. This beneficial effect, assessed through isometric dynamometry, underscores the ability of RJx-01 to promote muscle strength improvement, an outcome that would support the daily activities of sarcopenia patients. Improved muscle function: Treatment with RJx-01 led to an important improvement of leg acceleration, assessed through isokinetic dynamometry. The ability to accelerate the limb rapidly is important for functional movement in daily activities and is pivotal in mitigating fall risks - a critical consideration for sarcopenia patients. Improved fatigue resistance: Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed by monitoring muscle parameters during a series of leg exercises. Participants receiving RJx-01 showed a reduced propensity for fatigue indicating that RJx-01 can promote physical activities such as walking, a performance improvement that is important for sarcopenia patients. Dr. Ann Belien, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rejuvenate Biomed, expressed her enthusiasm, stating:"Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey to address age-related diseases, most notably sarcopenia - a condition affecting up to 1 in 5 individuals over 65 years. The impact demonstrated by RJx-01 offers great potential to make a substantial difference for individuals with sarcopenia or muscle strength loss due to other underlying factors. We eagerly anticipate advancing our Phase 2 program later this year, aiming to substantiate RJx-01's therapeutic potential in addressing sarcopenia and osteoporosis." Prof. Dr. Jean-Yves Reginster, Chair of Rejuvenate Biomed's Clinical Advisory Board, added: "These compelling data confirm RJx-01's promise to improve physical performance and muscle strength. With aging populations, it is inevitable that the number of people living with long-term health conditions will rise, challenging ones functional abilities and overall physical performance. Thus, it is crucial that companies like Rejuvenate Biomed work towards the goal of treating and even preventing the development of age-related diseases such as sarcopenia." Prof. Dr. Roger Fielding, Clinical Advisory Board member of Rejuvenate Biomed, echoed his resounding endorsement: "The number of people living with muscle-related conditions is increasing, emphasizing the urgent need for viable solutions to improve the age-related decline in muscle performance. The new data announced today by Rejuvenate Biomed regarding RJx-01 are very promising for patients with sarcopenia, as well as for those experiencing a loss of muscle function due to other causes." Rejuvenate Biomed will commence a Phase 2 study evaluating RJx-01's effect on sarcopenia and osteoporosis, as these two diseases often co-exist, so frequently that "osteosarcopenia" has recently been described in medical literature as a distinct syndrome. Additionally, the Company is actively exploring partnership opportunities to investigate RJx-01 in combination with GLP-1 drugs, that are marketed for obesity and diabetes type 2. The positive outcomes from the Phase 1b trial validate the predictive power of Rejuvenate Biomed's proprietary drug discovery platforms CombinAge and CelegAge, which efficiently screen small molecules to identify promising therapeutics targeting age-related pathways. Rejuvenate Biomed intends to make these platforms available to third parties through strategic partnerships or licensing agreements. 1. Tezze C, et al. JCI Insight 2023; 8(15):e168787. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.168787. 2.https://www.rejuvenatebiomed.com/en/news/positive-results-phase-1b-trial-in-sarcopenia. About Rejuvenate Biomed Rejuvenate Biomed is a clinical-stage platform and pipeline company dedicated to redefining the aging process. The Company leverages validated platform technology to develop innovative therapeutics targeting the root causes of age-related diseases. With two distinct drug discovery platforms - AI-enabled in silico CombinAge and in vivo CelegAge - Rejuvenate Biomed has demonstrated the predictive power of this approach, resulting in a pipeline of five unique combination drugs targeting various age-related diseases, including neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardiovascular, nephrological, and neurodegenerative indications. Headquartered in Belgium, Rejuvenate Biomed is committed to promoting healthy aging. Visit https://www.rejuvenatebiomed.com/en for more information. About the RJx-01-101 study RJx-01-101 is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial that successfully met primary and secondary endpoints, demonstrating positive clinical outcome data. Involving 42 healthy male subjects aged 65 to 75 with disuse-induced sarcopenia, the trial confirmed the safety, tolerability, and bioavailability of RJx-01 after 6 weeks of treatment. The Phase 1b study explored RJx-01's impact on various pharmacodynamic parameters, paving the way for further investigations in sarcopenia and related conditions. Following the trial, participants underwent a personalized rehabilitation program. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/rejuvenate-biomeds-clinical-trial-demonstrates-the-therapeutic-potential-of-rjx-01-in-sarcopenia-302066442.html Gdansk, Poland - 21 February 2024 - PolTREG S.A. (Warsaw Stock Exchange: PTG), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing cell therapies for a wide range of autoimmune diseases, announces today it has appointed Prof. Daniel Shelly, PhD, MBA, into the role of Chief Business Development Officer, to help PolTREG build the strategic, commercial, research and pharmaceutical partnerships that will enable the company to successfully commercialise its strong pipeline of cell therapies for diseases such as Type-1 Diabetes (T1D), Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). "I am elated we were able to attract Dan to help us deliver the promise of Treg cell therapies for a wide range of autoimmune diseases. PolTREG has the most comprehensive pipeline of cell therapies for autoimmune diseases, including Type-1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis, and Dan's arrival will enable us to continue to deliver the milestones that will bring our lead assets closer to market," said Prof. Piotr Trzonkowski, Chief Executive Officer of PolTREG. Dr Shelly is an astute veteran of the life science industry, with a deep understanding of biology and the Treg cell therapies that PolTREG is developing. He has a proven track record of closing business development deals for a wide range of biotech companies, including most recently several early-stage evaluation deals for Prescient Therapeutics Ltd., a clinical stage oncology company developing personalised medicine approaches to cancer, using CAR-T technologies. He was Director of Global Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for the global non-profit PATH, where he was the Co-Lead for the COVID-19 task force. He is an adjunct associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, where he teaches biologics discovery, pharmaco-economics and biotech business, publishes in scientific journals, and is a frequently invited speaker and thought leader at international cell therapy conferences. Dr Shelly has a comprehensive understanding of the clinical development pathway, with direct experience of regulatory submissions, and is skilled in clinical asset valuation and due diligence. PolTREG boasts the most advanced pipeline for Treg cell therapies in autoimmune disease, with its lead candidate, PTG-007, in mid-stage clinical studies in T1D and MS. In addition, the company expects to start First-in-Human clinical trials of its CAR-Tregs for two neurodegenerative diseases - MS and ALS - in early 2025. Complementing PolTREG's innovative clinical pipeline is the recent opening of one of Europe's largest CGMP cell therapy manufacturing facilities. The facility, one of the most advanced of its kind, will have over 2,100 sqm of laboratory space, including 15 operational production lines, a capacity that can be significantly further expanded. The facility already can deliver life-improving cell therapies anywhere in Europe within 24 hours post production. PolTREG was the first company in the world to administer Treg therapies to patients and the first to start receiving revenues from its lead product. So far, PolTREG has successfully treated 27 patients with PTG-007 commercially under a hospital exemption program in Poland. About PolTREG PolTREG is a global leader in developing autoimmune therapies based on T-regulatory cells (Tregs). Its lead product, PTG-007, autologous Treg treatment for early-onset Type-1 Diabetes (T1D) is ready for Phase 2/3 clinical testing, for which the company is seeking a partnership. The company will launch Phase 2 trials for PTG-007 to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the second half of 2024, for RRMS and PPMS. PolTREG also has engineered Tregs, including CAR-Tregs, antigen-specific Tregs and TCR-Tregs, in the preclinical stage. PolTREG has completed four clinical trials with more than 100 patients treated with Tregs. For more information please visit www.poltreg.com. For further information please contact: PolTREG S.A. Prof Piotr Trzonkowski Chief Executive Officer ir@poltreg.com +48 512 532 401 Investor Relations Chris Maggos Cohesion Bureau +41 79 367 62 54 chris.maggos@cohesionbureau.com Media Relations Douwe Miedema Cohesion Bureau +352 621 562 764 douwe.miedema@cohesionbureau.com Important information The contents of this announcement include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements". These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words "believes", "estimates," "anticipates", "expects", "intends", "may", "will", "plans", "continue", "ongoing", "potential", "predict", "project", "target", "seek" or "should", and include statements the Company makes concerning the intended results of its strategy. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The company's actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. Attachments The Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association (JSS), in collaboration with the Union de la Sommellerie Francaise, hosted a dinner at Institute Lyfe (formerly Paul Bocuse Institute) in Lyon, France, on February 19th at 7 pm. Seven sommeliers who hold the M.O.F. title, an award given to artisans with advanced skills deemed worthy successors of French culture, showcased their expertise by pairing sake with French cuisine. The dinner, attended by approximately 40 professionals in the alcohol industry, paired a selection of six types of sake, ranging from sparkling to aged varieties, with a six-course French meal, including dessert. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240219900827/en/ Sommeliers and sake makers shared a meal at Michelin-starred Restaurant Saisons (Photo: Business Wire) Utsunomiya Hitoshi, the director of the JSS, commented, "It is said that the opportunity for sake to be exported to Europe arose during the 1878 Paris Exposition. Initially introduced to Europe, that sake received very low evaluations. The fact that we can hold such a wonderful pairing dinner with M.O.F. laureates, who represent the highest honor in the French culinary world, demonstrates not only the improved quality of sake but also its recognition as a versatile beverage that pairs well with a variety of dishes. We are grateful for this fantastic opportunity and thank the Union de la Sommellerie Francaise and the M.O.F. laureates, including Xavier Thuizat, for their participation." Sake is now exported to 75 countries and regions, with an export value of 41.1 billion yen as of 2023. The export value to France has increased by approximately 3.7 times over the last decade and the overall sake export has grown by 3.6 times during the same period, marking its evolution into a beverage cherished by the global gastronomy community. The JSS will continue to promote a correct understanding of sake and convey its charm as a beverage that pairs well with diverse cuisines through local pairing dinners and masterclasses. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240219900827/en/ Contacts: For inquiries, please contact: Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association Email: vs@japansake.or.jp - Analysis of published studies of extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) treatment for steroid-refractory chronic graft-versus-host disease (SR-cGvHD) assessed that THERAKOS ECP can improve short- and long-term patient outcomes1 - THIS INFORMATION IS INTENDED FOR EUROPEAN AUDIENCES ONLY DUBLIN, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc, a global specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced a poster presentation of findings from a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of the safety, efficacy, and real-world outcomes of extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) treatment for patients with steroid-refractory chronic graft-versus-host disease (SR-cGvHD).1 An analysis of 47 studies reporting on the THERAKOS CELLEX Photopheresis System showed that treatment of SR-cGvHD with ECP was associated with improvements in patients' overall survival (OS), failure-free survival (FFS), and overall response rate (ORR).1 The results will be shared in a poster presentation at the 2024 Tandem Meetings, the combined Transplantation & Cellular Therapy Meetings of the American Society of Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) and the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) taking place February 21-24, 2024 in San Antonio, TX. A systematic review of literature available through October 19, 2022 was first conducted to identify and analyze studies of patients receiving ECP for SR-cGvHD that reported on efficacy, safety, or health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes.1 The literature review identified 47 studies which uniquely reported on THERAKOS ECP treatment with a sample size = 10 patients, comprising a total of 2,361 patients.1 Lines of therapy were poorly reported (n=15) and ranged from 0-=4 lines of previous treatment.1 Most clinical studies (n=27) used a retrospective case series design.1 Using the studies identified from the systematic literature review, random effects meta-analyses were then performed for short- and long-term efficacy outcomes including ORR and skin-specific response, and OS and FFS, respectively.1 A subgroup analysis was also conducted to explore the effect of outcome assessment criteria from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) vs. non-NIH/unknown criteria.1 Safety and HRQoL outcomes were poorly reported in the existing clinical literature and therefore were not suitable for the meta-analysis.1 "We are pleased to share this important analysis of real-world data supporting THERAKOS ECP's efficacy, safety, and associated improvements to short- and long-term outcomes - such as overall survival, failure-free survival, and overall response rate - for patients with steroid-refractory chronic graft-versus-host-disease,1" said Zachariah DeFilipp, MD, Hematopoietic Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA. "This analysis not only builds upon the growing body of evidence supporting ECP's utility in treating patients with this condition, but also reflects the importance of supporting clinicians with treatment options for managing patients who do not respond to other types of therapy, such as steroids.1" In assessing the short-term efficacy of THERAKOS ECP, this meta-analysis found1: The ORR (7 studies; 293 patients) at Months 3-4 and at Months 6-8 (13 studies; 540 patients) were 45.34% (95% CI: 26.64 - 65.45) and 58.23% (95% CI: 45.04-70.35), respectively. No significant difference in ORR between studies utilizing NIH criteria vs. non-NIH criteria, per the subgroup analysis. Skin-specific response at Months 2-3 and at Months 4-6 were 34.86% (95% CI: 13.26-65.21) and 54.22% (95% CI: 35.67-71.67), respectively. In assessing the long-term efficacy of THERAKOS ECP, this meta-analysis found1: The pooled OS rate (14 studies; 704 patients) at Month 12 was 83.97% (95% CI: 77.33-88.94). The OS rate (8 studies; 431 patients) at Month 60 was 57.96% (95% CI: 35.48-77.56). The FFS rate (4 studies; 169 patients) at Month 12 was 60.79% (95% CI: 38.94-79.03). Limitations Data collected in systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses may have errors or omissions. The studies included in the analysis are heterogeneous and use different patient populations, endpoints, interventions, and dosing.1 There was considerable heterogeneity across analyses with I2 values ranging from 65% to 91%.1 Most studies included in the meta-analysis were retrospective analyses1 and these observations may require further investigation in prospective, controlled trials. Statistical evaluations should be interpreted with caution. Outcomes may be influenced by therapies not evaluated in the study and the clinical/health economics outcomes may not be solely attributable to THERAKOS ECP. This study was sponsored by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. Presentation details can be found below: Abstract #340: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Extracorporeal Photopheresis for the Treatment of Steroid-Refractory Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease1 Presenter: Zachariah DeFilipp, MD, Hematopoietic Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA Zachariah DeFilipp, MD, Hematopoietic Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA Presentation Date: Thursday, February 22, 2024; 6:45 - 7:45 p.m. CST Thursday, February 22, 2024; 6:45 - 7:45 p.m. CST Location: Exhibit Hall 4a (Street Level) IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR THE THERAKOS PHOTOPHERESIS PROCEDURE Indications The THERAKOS CELLEX Photopheresis System is indicated for the administration of photopheresis. Please refer to the appropriate product labelling for a complete list of warnings and precautions. Contraindications THERAKOS Photopheresis is contraindicated in: Patients possessing a specific history of light sensitive disease Patients who cannot tolerate extracorporeal volume loss or who have white blood cell counts greater than 25,000 / mm 3 Patients who have coagulation disorders or who have previously had a splenectomy Warnings and Precautions THERAKOS Photopheresis treatments should always be performed in locations where standard medical emergency equipment is available. Volume replacement fluids and/or volume expanders should be readily available throughout the procedure. Safety in children has not been established. Do not expose the device to a magnetic resonance (MR) environment. The device may present a risk of protective injury, and thermal injury and burns may occur. The device may generate artifacts in the MR image, or may not function properly. Thromboembolic events, including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, have been reported in the treatment of Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD). Special attention to adequate anticoagulation is advised when treating patients with GvHD. When prescribing and administering THERAKOS Photopheresis for patients receiving concomitant therapy, exercise caution when changing treatment schedules to avoid increased disease activity that may be caused by abrupt withdrawal of previous therapy. Adverse Events Hypotension may occur during any treatment involving extracorporeal circulation. Closely monitor the patient during the entire treatment for hypotension. Transient pyretic reactions, 37.7-38.9 ?C (100-102 ?F), have been observed in some patients within six to eight hours of reinfusion of the photoactivated leukocyte-enriched blood. A temporary increase in erythroderma may accompany the pyretic reaction. Treatment frequency exceeding labelling recommendations may result in anaemia. Venous access carries a small risk of infection and pain. Please refer to the THERAKOS CELLEX Photopheresis System Operator Manual for a complete list of warnings and precautions. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR METHOXSALEN USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THERAKOS PHOTOPHERESIS Contraindications Methoxsalen is contraindicated in: Patients exhibiting idiosyncratic or hypersensitivity reactions to methoxsalen, psoralen compounds, or any of the excipients Patients with co-existing melanoma, basal cell or squamous cell skin carcinoma Patients who are pregnant, and sexually active men and women of childbearing potential unless adequate contraception is used during treatment Patients with aphakia because of the significantly increased risk of retinal damage to the absence of a lens Warnings and Precautions Special care should be exercised in treating patients who are receiving concomitant therapy (either topically or systemically) with known photosynthesizing agents. Oral administration of methoxsalen followed by cutaneous UVA exposure (PUVA therapy) is carcinogenic . Patients should be told emphatically to wear UVA absorbing, wrap-around sunglasses for twenty-four (24) hours after methoxsalen treatment. They should wear these glasses anytime they are exposed to direct or indirect sunlight, whether they are outdoors or exposed through a window. Safety in children has not been established. Refer to the package insert for methoxsalen sterile solution (20 micrograms / mL) or the oral 8-methoxpsoralen dosage formulation for a list of all warnings and precautions. Please refer to the THERAKOS CELLEX Photopheresis System Operator Manual for a complete list of warnings and precautions and adverse events. About Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) ECP, a blood based immunomodulatory therapy developed more than 30 years ago, is recommended by the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT)2 and other clinical societies3,4,5 as an adjunctive therapy for the prevention and treatment of ACR after heart transplantation. Additionally, ECP may be considered to treat AMR with or without donor specific antibodies.6,7 In countries where it is approved, ECP is used to treat a range of immune-mediated diseases, including skin manifestations of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), solid organ transplant rejection and other autoimmune diseases. During ECP treatment, a small amount of white blood cells is collected and treated with a drug that is activated by ultraviolet light. ABOUT MALLINCKRODT Mallinckrodt is a global business consisting of multiple wholly owned subsidiaries that develop, manufacture, market and distribute specialty pharmaceutical products and therapies. The company's Specialty Brands reportable segment's areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, hepatology, nephrology, pulmonology, ophthalmology, and oncology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics; and gastrointestinal products. Its Specialty Generics reportable segment includes specialty generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELATED TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This release contains forward-looking statements, including with regard to THERAKOS ECP, its potential to improve health and treatment outcomes, its potential impact on patients, and the planned presentation regarding the THERAKOS ECP study results. The statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements: the effects of Mallinckrodt's recent emergence from bankruptcy; satisfaction of, and compliance with, regulatory and other requirements; actions of regulatory bodies and other governmental authorities; changes in laws and regulations; issues with product quality, manufacturing or supply, or patient safety issues or adverse side effects or adverse reactions associated with THERAKOS ECP; and other risks identified and described in more detail in the "Risk Factors" section of Mallinckrodt's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, all of which are available on its website. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date hereof and Mallinckrodt does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law. CONTACT Media Inquiries Green Room Communications 908-577-4531 mediainquiries@grcomms.com Investor Relations Daniel J. Speciale Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Specialty Generics 314-654-3638 daniel.speciale@mnk.com Derek Belz Vice President, Investor Relations 314-654-3950 derek.belz@mnk.com Mallinckrodt, the "M" brand mark and the Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals logo are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company. Other brands are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company or their respective owners. 2024 Mallinckrodt. EU-2400019 02/24 References 1 Data on File - Ref-07190. Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. 2 Costanzo MR, et al. The International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation Guidelines for the care of heart transplant recipients. J Heart Lung Trans. 2010:29(8);914-956. 3 Alfred et al. The role of extracorporeal photopheresis in the management of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, graft-versus-host disease and organ transplant rejection: a consensus statement update from the UK Photopheresis Society. Br J Haematol. 2017;177(2):287-310. 4 Padmanabhan et al. Guidelines on the Use of Therapeutic Apheresis in Clinical Practice - Evidence-Based Approach from the Writing Committee of the American Society for Apheresis: The Eighth Special Issue. J Clin Apher. 2019;34:171-354. 5 Knobler et al. European dermatology forum - updated guidelines on the use of extracorporeal photopheresis 2020 - part 2. Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2021;35(1):27-49. 6 Colvin et al. Antibody-mediated rejection in cardiac transplantation: emerging knowledge in diagnosis and management: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2015;131(18):1608-1639. 7 Barten et al. The clinical impact of donor-specific antibodies in heart transplantation. Transplant Rev (Orlando). 2018;32(4):207-217. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/167103/mallinckrodt_plc_logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mallinckrodt-presents-data-on-real-world-outcomes-with-therakos-cellex-photopheresis-system-treatment-at-the-2024-tandem-meetings-302066678.html Preliminary 2023 results exceed the latest guidance and represent the best-ever financial result in the Company's history driven by extraordinary growth in travel health and a surge in smallpox/mpox vaccine sales. 2024 revenue of DKK 5,000-5,300 million and EBITDA of DKK 1,100-1,350 million expected. Focused R&D efforts to drive sustainable value creation within infectious diseases; discontinuing immuno-oncology projects. The Company will host three capital markets days during February. COPENHAGEN, Denmark, February 21, 2024 - Bavarian Nordic A/S (OMX: BAVA) today reports preliminary, unaudited financial results for 2023 and financial guidance for 2024. Furthermore, the Company provides an update on its R&D priorities. The preliminary revenue in 2023 was DKK 7,062 million compared to DKK 3,151 million in 2022, thus exceeding the annual guidance of DKK 6,900 million. The improved revenue was driven by the Public Preparedness segment due to a surge in sales of smallpox/mpox vaccines following the unfortunate outbreak in 2022, as well as continued strong growth in the Travel Health business, further supported by the addition of new products through the latest acquisition in May 2023. The preliminary revenue comprised of DKK 5,027 million from Public Preparedness and DKK 1,877 million from Travel Health. Other revenue reached DKK 158 million. The preliminary operating result (EBITDA) was a profit of DKK 2,615 million compared to DKK 328 million in 2022, thus exceeding the latest guidance of DKK 2,300 million. "This historical result is an endorsement of the successful execution of the commercial strategy we initiated back in 2020 and the transition to one of the largest pure play vaccine companies in the world. It is all the more pleasing to see that all parts of the company have contributed to this result, due to our brand performance, resurgence in travel, and expanding our partnerships in public preparedness. While the surge in demand for our smallpox/mpox vaccine is decreasing, in part due to the role our vaccine has played in reducing the mpox cases, the public preparedness base business has grown in the number of customers and the emerging private mpox business. This, together with strong growth in travel health, means Bavarian Nordic is now a DKK 5 billion annual revenue company and growing, with profit margins that can compete with pharma companies. The increased manufacturing capacity and broader customer base also mean that we will be able to respond to future surges in demand, following increased cases of mpox, or extraordinary governmental orders, that will allow us to exceed the growing base business from time to time. I would like to thank all the dedicated and highly skilled employees for delivering an outstanding annual result that has saved millions of lives through access to our life-saving vaccines during 2023," said Paul Chaplin, President and CEO of Bavarian Nordic. The consolidated, audited financial results for 2023 will become available on March 6, 2024, in connection with the publication of the Company's annual report for 2023. DKK million Numbers are approximate FY 2023 guidance original, 15-Feb-2023 FY 2023 guidance latest, 03-Aug-2023 FY 2023 actuals preliminary, unaudited Revenue 6,000 6,900 7,062 EBITDA 2,200 2,300 2,615 2024 financial guidance For 2024, Bavarian Nordic expects revenue of DKK 5,000-5,300 million and EBITDA of DKK 1,100-1,350 million. The expected revenue is comprised of DKK 2,700-3,000 million from Public Preparedness vaccines, of which DKK 1,600 million have already been secured by contracts, approximately DKK 2,100 million from Travel Health vaccines and approximately DKK 200 million from contract work. Travel Health anticipates a 12% growth, driven by a mix of continued market growth and market share gains. Research and development costs of approximately DKK 850 million are expected, of which the chikungunya program represents nearly half. Similarly, the chikungunya program will impact manufacturing costs negatively by approximately DKK 240 million due to the manufacturing of batches as part of the preparations for commercial launch in 2025. Pending approval of the vaccine, it is expected that these costs will be reversed and capitalized in 2025. Adjusting the implicit 2024 EBITDA margin for this effect would give an EBITDA margin range of 27-30%. Net working capital is expected to increase by approximately DKK 900 million due to final inventory build-up before the completion of tech transfer of rabies and TBE manufacturing. Other tangible investments of approximately DKK 300 million are expected. Cash outflow in 2024 further includes milestone payments of DKK 1,800 million to GSK and Emergent BioSolutions. The outlook is based on the following assumptions on currency exchange rates of DKK 6.90 per 1 USD and DKK 7.45 per 1 EUR. Focused R&D priorities to drive sustainable value creation Bavarian Nordic's only active immuno-oncology project, TAEK-VAC, has reached a stage where clinical expansion and further investments would be required. The Company has decided to focus its future R&D efforts on infectious diseases through product improvements to remain competitive and new vaccine development. As a consequence, the TAEK-VAC project will not be continued, and the Company has no further plans to invest in immuno-oncology vaccine development. Capital markets days in February As previously announced, Bavarian Nordic will hold three capital markets days for investors and analysts, by invitation only, on the following dates and locations: February 26 in Copenhagen, February 27 in London, and February 28 in New York City. At these half-day events, the management of Bavarian Nordic will provide an update on the Company's strategy, as well as a deep dive into its two business areas: Travel Health and Public Preparedness, and the opportunities ahead. For more information, visit www.bavarian-nordic.com/cmd . About Bavarian Nordic Bavarian Nordic is a fully integrated vaccine company with a mission to protect and save lives through innovative vaccines. We are a global leader in smallpox and mpox vaccines, supplied to governments to enhance public health preparedness and have a strong portfolio of vaccines for travelers and endemic diseases. For more information visit www.bavarian-nordic.com . Forward-looking statements This announcement includes forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, future events, performance and/or other information that is not historical information. All such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances after the date made, except as required by law. Contacts Europe: Rolf Sass Srensen, Vice President Investor Relations, Tel: +45 61 77 47 43 US: Graham Morrell, Paddock Circle Advisors, graham@paddockcircle.com , Tel: +1 781 686 9600 Company Announcement no. 01 / 2024 Attachment CHANGSHA, China, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 18th, the ninth day of the first lunar month of the Year of the Dragon, Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion", 1157.HK) held grand opening activities for 2024 across various parks nationwide, and dispatched a range of products worth over RMB 1.2 billion to global destinations from its intelligent industry cities and parks located in Lugu, Quantang, Wangcheng, Changde, Weinan, Kaifeng, and other locations. This marked the beginning of the company's global endeavors in the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing the dragon's journey across the seas. Previously, Zoomlion's engineering crane, construction crane, concrete machinery, and earth-moving machinery companies had secured over RMB 5.4 billion in overseas orders during annual meetings and product evaluations, setting the stage for high-quality development in 2024. On the day, over 200 cranes, including crawler cranes, and mobile cranes worth a total of RMB 280 million, were dispatched from Quantang Industrial Park, Lugu Park, and Changde Hanshou Park, to support construction projects worldwide. That morning, nearly 200 trailers loaded with more than 100 pieces of equipment set off from Zoomlion's tower crane intelligent factories in Changde, and its East China Base, Hengshui Base, and Weinan Base. These included the latest R-series tower cranes and intelligent unmanned elevators, as well as custom-engineered products designed for high-end overseas markets. Valued at RMB 170 million, these orders accounted for over 50% of overseas sales. The first batch of Zoomlion concrete machinery, including pump trucks, wet sprayers, truck-mounted pumps, mixers, and mixing stations worth over RMB 200 million, was dispatched to global destinations the day before. This fervent activity was mirrored across Zoomlion's manufacturing parks for intelligent aerial work machinery, earth-moving machinery, pile-working machinery, mining machinery, emergency equipment, and industrial vehicles. As engineering machinery shipments accelerate in numbers, Zoomlion's agricultural machinery opening activities are equally bustling. Over 500 agricultural machinery units were dispatched from various production parks to major grain-producing areas in China and overseas markets including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, CIS, and South America, safeguarding agricultural production around the globe. Looking ahead to 2024, the company is moving forward with unwavering determination and optimism. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Zoomlion is continuously pushing the boundaries of high-quality development, constantly achieving new milestones. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344231/Zoomlion_dispatched_a_range_of_products_worth_over_RMB_1_2_billion_to_global_locations.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zoomlion-kicks-off-2024-by-dispatching-equipment-worth-over-rmb-1-2-billion-to-global-destinations-302066855.html Certification to reaffirm Azentio's standing as today's most relevant Islamic financial services technology provider SINGAPORE, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Azentio Software ("Azentio"), a Singapore-headquartered technology firm owned by funds advised by Apax Partners , has announced that iMAL latest version and the company's industry-leading digital Islamic core banking platform, has successfully completed the annual compliance exercise and received the certification for the year 2024 from the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions - AAOIFI , the world's renowned standard-setting body for the Islamic financial services industry. This certification is a categorical endorsement of iMAL continuous adherence to all the currently active AAOIFI Shariah Standards and AAOIFI Financial Accounting Standards, and affirms the commitment of Azentio's forward-looking approach to ensure their clients get the best of technology that is scalable and compliant with those standards. Azentio's Shariah Compliance team keeps track of newly issued standards and exposure drafts to ensure iMAL clients get a solution capable of offering products and services aligned with AAOIFI Standards and industry trends. The latest version of iMAL comes with more security capabilities, and wider features to streamline processes related to taxation and reporting, with enhanced user-friendly dashboards and access privileges. Omar Mustafa Ansari, Secretary General of AAOIFI, commented, "We are pleased to conclude the review of the latest version of iMAL for the year 2024, which was conducted to verify its compliance with AAOIFI Shariah Standards and AAOIFI Financial Accounting Standards. iMAL's continued compliance with AAOIFI Standards serves to mitigate the likelihood of Shariah non-compliance risks and upholds and promotes transparency in financial reporting for Azentio's clients, which include prominent Islamic financial institutions globally. We believe that our ongoing partnership with Azentio fulfils the requirements of at least 47 jurisdictions globally which recognise AAOIFI Standards in various manifestations, while also supporting the advancement of other jurisdictions." Sanjay Singh, Group CEO at Azentio, stated, "The Islamic financial services segment continues to witness impressive growth, therefore Azentio is as excited as the financial institutions in the segment, to have an opportunity to cater to the growing demand globally for Shariah-compliant products and services. Being awarded the compliance certification by AAOIFI since 2008 is a big achievement for Azentio and reaffirms our standing as pioneers in the global marketplace. This achievement restates our commitment to offer our clients the most valuable combination of latest software technology and Shariah-based processes. Any entity dealing with our clients, be it customers or partners, can rest assured that every relevant Shariah principle, is being faithfully and thoroughly followed by our clients." About Azentio Software Azentio provides mission-critical software products across Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa and India to banks, financial services providers, and insurers. It also provides ERP solutions to mid-market enterprises. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1978771/Azentio_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/aaoifi-accords-azentio-softwares-imal-latest-version-with-compliance-certification-for-2024-302067010.html ALULA, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) in partnership with the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture will bring together 150 of the world's cultural leaders, policymakers, tech entrepreneurs, and artists, to participate in Saudi Arabia's first cultural summit in AlUla from 25-27 February 2024, addressing culture's most pressing issues. The inaugural AlUla Future Culture Summit will take place in Daimumah, where contemporary art, nature and heritage come together in the scenic heart of the Cultural Oasis. It will feature 3 days of panel discussions, immersive performances, workshops, and guided exploration of AlUla's remarkable cultural and physical landscape, broadening the impact of culture as a driving force for societal progress and long-term positive change. Held under the theme of 'Cultural Landscapes', the summit acts as a hub for innovative arts and culture and a facilitator of cross-cultural dialogue and creative expression. The summit will be structured around three core pillars: FERTILE TERRAINS: Cultivating Innovation & Regeneration in Culture New cultural infrastructure is being developed across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from museums and festivals to public art, and globally there is a growing audience for experiences of art in remote and natural landscapes. Panels under this pillar consider how communities can respond and shape culture. How can human and non-human interests be protected from the potential negative impacts of this rapid expansion, and how should urban, rural, and natural environments be regenerated for positive social outcomes? Discussions will address how creatives can offer new non-exploitative, artistic understandings of nature and its needs, and how culture can enable a more harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world. CREATIVE GROUNDS: Powering the Shift to Global Creativity and Cross-Cultural Dialogue. The shift to knowledge economies in KSA and the region is an aspiration mirrored worldwide, from traditional industrial nations to the emerging economies of the global south. Panels under this pillar explore how to support creative industries, use the arts to improve skills in our culture sector, and decide which traditional skills should be kept or revived and which new skills should be taught as societies progress. This session will also address the policies needed to grow the cultural economy and boost creative entrepreneurship. IMPACT HARVESTS: Inclusive Culture and Community Empowerment. The spread of cultural production globally, facilitated by digital media, has opened new opportunities for cultural exchange and creativity. But it can also dilute local culture. Cultural communication and new cultural assets like arts districts and public art initiatives can strengthen community identity and belonging. In contrast, some artists and practitioners resist using culture for broader social or economic impact, questioning whether art should exist for its own sake, or if there is also opportunity to provide new content for digital platforms, or to provide spaces for community bonding. This session will explore these issues and look at whether grassroots initiatives and entrepreneurship are the future of cultural development or whether central governments will still have a central role. Talks, panel discussions and workshops will include world-leading cultural influencers and organisations, including a keynote speech from His Excellency Rakan AlTouq, Saudi Arabia's Assistant Minister of Culture. Other prominent speakers will include German curator and museum director Klaus Biesenbach; professor, architect and artist Ronald Rael; Laurent Le Bon, President of the Centre Pompidou; Curator & Art Critic, Nicolas Bourriaud; Indian painter and art curator Bose Krishnamachari; international artistic director and curator Akiko Miki; Architect Lina El Ghotmeh and Professor Emanuele Coccia; Filmmaker & Actress Fatima Albanawi; Artist Mohammad AlFaraj; along with contributors from summit partners KAUST, Misk Art Institute, King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), Centre Pompidou, and L'ECOLE School of Jewelry Arts. In addition to these discussions, there will be performances and presentations by the likes of Saudi multidisciplinary and performance artist Balqis Alrashed; and Nigerian-British poet and playwright Inua Ellams. Excursions across the region will also take place, including Wadi AlFann's Immersive Experience, titled Campfire Tales: Crossroads of Creativity, a curated journey through storytelling featuring specially commissioned performances including visual and culinary arts. Taking place in Wadi AlFann, a new global cultural destination for land art opening in 2026, the event will be a unique opportunity to experience the monumental desert landscape of AlUla. A tour of More than Meets the Eye, an exhibition of contemporary works by Saudi artists on loan from collectors in Saudi Arabia, hosted at Maraya will also be included in the itinerary. Curated by Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, the exhibition will re-canonise the history of the contemporary art movements in Saudi Arabia, documenting the story of artists and the role of collectors in the development of the art scene. Nora Aldabal, Arts and Creative Industries Executive Director at RCU, said: "The inaugural edition of the AlUla Future Culture Summit reflects our commitment to preserving cultural heritage and championing art and culture to drive societal change. Through this summit, we explore the role of landscapes in shaping cultural evolution and the impact of nature on the places we inhabit. "Culture serves as a unifying force, inspiring solutions to global challenges and fostering societal progress through shared knowledge and understanding. The summit unites leaders in the global discourse of cultural expression, expansion and conservation. "As an ancient crossroads for civilisations, AlUla has a long and celebrated history as a home to diverse cultures and ideas. The AlUla Future Culture Summit builds upon these deep-rooted traditions while celebrating the dawn of a new chapter. I look forward to welcoming delegates and participants to explore new ideas, debate new solutions and exchange knowledge at this impactful event." Attendance at the event is on an invitation-only basis. For more information, please download the AlUla Future Culture Summit app available in the Android and Apple app stores. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344290/Daimumah.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/inaugural-alula-future-culture-summit-celebrates-innovative-ideas-artistic-endeavours-and-inclusive-culture-with-a-global-audience-302067060.html Regulatory News: L'Air Liquide (Paris: Al) signed a share repurchase agreement with an investment services provider in the context of its Share Buyback Program, as approved by the Combined Shareholders' Meeting of the Company on May 3rd, 2023. The terms of the agreement, signed on February 21st, 2024, set a volume of 905,000 Air Liquide shares (representing 0.17% of the share capital of the Company as at December 31st, 2023) for a maximum unit price not exceeding the limits set by the Combined Shareholders' Meeting of the Company on May 3rd, 2023 and the Board of Directors on September 28th, 2023 (i.e. 250 euros per share). The initial purchase price (185.86 euros per share) matches the share price at closing of the stock market on the day preceding the signing date of the agreement, leading to an initial total purchase price of 168,203,300 euros. This initial total purchase price will be adjusted at the end of the share purchase period set in the share repurchase agreement, such an adjustment to be disclosed in a dedicated press release. The shares bought back pursuant to the agreement shall in part be canceled by the Company and in part be allocated to the implementation of performance share plans of the Company. Details on the Share Buyback Programme are set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document (Chapter 6 Board of Directors' report on the resolutions presented to the Combined General Meeting), available on the Company's website. _________________ Air Liquide is a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare. Present in 72 countries with 67,800 employees, the Group serves more than 4 million customers and patients. Oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen are essential small molecules for life, matter and energy. They embody Air Liquide's scientific territory and have been at the core of the Group's activities since its creation in 1902. Taking action today while preparing the future is at the heart of Air Liquide's strategy. With ADVANCE, its strategic plan for 2025, Air Liquide is targeting a global performance, combining financial and extra-financial dimensions. Positioned on new markets, the Group benefits from major assets such as its business model combining resilience and strength, its ability to innovate and its technological expertise. The Group develops solutions contributing to climate and the energy transition-particularly with hydrogen-and takes action to progress in areas of healthcare, digital and high technologies. Air Liquide's revenue amounted to more than 27.5 billion euros in 2023. Air Liquide is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange (compartment A) and belongs to the CAC 40, CAC 40 ESG, EURO STOXX 50, FTSE4Good and DJSI Europe indexes. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220011214/en/ Contacts: Corporate Communications media@airliquide.com Group Financing Treasury Director Guillaume.Serey@airliquide.com Investor Relations IRTeam@airliquide.com CARGOTEC CORPORATION, PRESS RELEASE, 21 FEBRUARY 2024 AT 10and eighthybridstraddle carriers for its ECT Delta terminal. The significant order was booked in Cargotec's 2024 Q1 order intake, with delivery expected to be completed during Q4 2024. Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam (ECT) operates two container terminals both located on the North Sea coast of Rotterdam and capable of handling the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels without any restrictions. The ECT Delta uses its fleet of straddle carriers for loading and unloading trucks on the land side. The terminal already operates a number of Kalmar straddle carriers. The new straddle carriers are part of a fleet renewal programme that will support the goal of ECT to achieve emission-free operations at its ECT Delta and ECT Euromax terminals by 2035. ECT will be piloting two different battery technologies in the electric straddle carriers. The order also includesKalmar Insightcoverage for all the machines - a performance management tool that turns data into actionable, impactful insights. For electrically powered machines, the Kalmar Insight Energy Module provides visibility over the battery charge status, energy utilisation and key performance indicators related to charging. Karri Keskinen, Head of Global Sales, Horizontal Transportation, Kalmar: "We are delighted to continue our collaboration with ECT and support their transition to more sustainable operations with our eco-efficient straddle carrier technology. Our flexible battery technology offering allows customers to select the option that best fits their operational needs instead of settling for a one-size-fits-all solution when electrifying their equipment fleets. This third order for our fully electric straddle carrier demonstrates the strong market confidence in our eco-efficient solution." Further information for the press: Karri Keskinen, Head of Global Sales, Horizontal Transportation, Kalmar, tel. +358407002198, karri.keskinen@kalmarglobal.com Maija Eklof, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Kalmar, tel. +358 20 777 4096, maija.eklof@kalmarglobal.com Kalmar is the global leader in sustainable cargo handling for ports, terminals, distribution centres and heavy industry. With our extensive electric portfolio and global service network, we help our customers move towards safer, more eco-efficient and productive operations. Together, we develop innovative solutions that shape the future of our industry, improving our customers' every move. www.kalmarglobal.com Kalmar is part of Cargotec. Cargotec's Attachments Nordea Bank Abp / Key word(s): AGMEGM Notice of AGM 21.02.2024 / 09:20 CET/CEST Notice to the Annual General Meeting of Nordea Bank Abp Nordea Bank Abp Stock exchange release - Notice to general meeting 21 February 2024 at 09.00 EET Nordea Bank Abp's shareholders are hereby summoned to the Annual General Meeting to be held on Thursday 21 March 2024 at 12.00 EET at Scandic Marina Congress Center in Helsinki. Nordea Bank Abp's ("Nordea" or the "Company") Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday 21 March 2024 at 12.00 EET at Scandic Marina Congress Center, Katajanokanlaituri 6, 00160 Helsinki, Finland. The reception of persons who have registered for the meeting will commence at 10.30 EET. Shareholders may also exercise their voting rights in the Annual General Meeting by voting in advance. Instructions on advance voting are set out in Section "C. Instructions for the participants in the Annual General Meeting" of this notice. The meeting may be followed online via a live webcast on Nordea's website. It will be possible to submit questions to the Q&A session with senior management before and during the webcast. Such questions do not constitute questions referred to in Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Companies Act, and following the meeting via webcast is not considered as participation in the Annual General Meeting. Instructions on how to join the webcast and submit questions are set out in Section "C. Instructions for the participants in the Annual General Meeting" of this notice and can also be found on Nordea's website at www.nordea.com/agm . A. Matters on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting Information and proposals concerning the formal organisational matters in agenda items 1 to 5 are included in a separate organisational document published on Nordea's website at www.nordea.com/agm , which document also constitutes a part of this notice. The document will be supplemented as needed at the meeting with such information that is not available before the Annual General Meeting. At the Annual General Meeting, the following matters will be considered: 1. Opening of the meeting 2. Calling the meeting to order and related decisions 3. Election of persons to scrutinise the minutes and to supervise the counting of votes 4. Recording the legality of the meeting 5. Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes 6. Presentation of the annual accounts, the report of the Board of Directors and the Auditor's report for the year 2023 Review by the President and Group CEO Q&A session with senior management 7. Adoption of the annual accounts 8. Resolution on the use of the profit shown in the annual accounts and related authorisation of the Board of Directors The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting authorise the Board of Directors to decide on a dividend payment of a maximum of EUR 0.92 per share based on the annual accounts to be adopted for the financial year ended on 31 December 2023. The authorisation will remain in force and effect until the opening of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company. It is intended that the Board of Directors decides on a dividend payment in a single instalment based on this authorisation immediately after the Annual General Meeting. The intended record date for such dividend payment would be 25 March 2024 whereby the earliest dividend payment date would be 3 April 2024 or as soon as possible after that day. The dividend will be paid to shareholders who on the applicable record date for the dividend payment are recorded in the Company's shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy in Finland, Euroclear Sweden AB in Sweden and VP Securities A/S in Denmark. Dividend will not be paid to shares held by the Company on the dividend record date. 9. Resolution to discharge the members of the Board of Directors and the President and Group CEO from liability 10. Advisory resolution on the adoption of the Company's remuneration report for governing bodies The Board of Directors proposes to the Annual General Meeting that the Company's remuneration report for governing bodies for the year 2023 is adopted through an advisory resolution. 11. Advisory resolution on the adoption of the Company's remuneration policy for governing bodies The Board of Directors, following a review by the Shareholders' Nomination Board in respect of the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors, presents to the Annual General Meeting for adoption through an advisory resolution the Company's remuneration policy for governing bodies, which was last presented to the Annual General Meeting held on 28 May 2020. The presented remuneration policy for governing bodies is intended to be applied until the Annual General Meeting in 2028. The remuneration policy for governing bodies provides a framework of the remuneration for the members of the Board of Directors, the President and Group CEO and the Deputy Managing Director. There are no material changes in the presented remuneration policy for governing bodies, as compared to the remuneration policy adopted by the 2020 Annual General Meeting. The amendments are mainly to cover the used terminology and minor updates connected to the variable pay plans and the alignment to long-term shareholder value. 12. Resolution on the remuneration for the members of the Board of Directors The Shareholders' Nomination Board proposes to the Annual General Meeting that the following annual remuneration is paid to the members of the Board of Directors elected by the Annual General Meeting: Role 2024 proposed (EUR) 2023 (EUR) Increase (%) Chair 365,000 352,000 3.7 Vice Chair 171,000 165,500 3.3 Other members of the Board of Directors 109,000 105,500 3.3 The Shareholders' Nomination Board also proposes the following additional annual remuneration for committee chairs and committee members: Role 2024 proposed (EUR) 2023 (EUR) Increase (%) Board Audit Committee, Board Risk Committee, and Board Operations and Sustainability Committee chairs 69,500 67,000 3.7 Board Audit Committee, Board Risk Committee, and Board Operations and Sustainability Committee members 34,500 33,500 3.0 Board Remuneration and People Committee Chair 53,000 49,500 7.1 Board Remuneration and People Committee members 30,000 29,000 3.4 No remuneration is paid to members of the Board of Directors employed by the Nordea Group. In addition, Nordea covers or reimburses the members of the Board of Directors all costs and expenses related to or arising from the Board membership, including travel, logistics and accommodation as well as consultative, legal and administrative costs. The legal costs can e.g. include required costs of legal defence and claims made (during and after their period of office) against Board members in cases where Board members are not found liable or guilty of any intentional wrongdoing or grossly negligent behaviour. 13. Resolution on the number of members of the Board of Directors The Shareholders' Nomination Board proposes to the Annual General Meeting that for a period until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, the number of members of the Board of Directors to be elected by the Annual General Meeting is set at ten. However, should any number of the candidates proposed by the Shareholders' Nomination Board for any reason not be available for election to the Board of Directors, the proposed number of Board members shall be decreased accordingly. Furthermore, the Board of Directors has three ordinary members and one deputy member elected by the employees of the Nordea Group. 14. Election of the members of the Board of Directors and the Chair of the Board of Directors The Shareholders' Nomination Board proposes to the Annual General Meeting that for a period until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, the following persons are elected to the Board of Directors so that each proposed member of the Board of Directors is considered separately in an election: a.Sir Stephen Hester (present member), also to be re-elected as Chair of the Board of Directors b. Petra van Hoeken (present member) c. John Maltby (present member) d. Risto Murto (present member) e. Lene Skole (present member) f. Per Stromberg (present member) g. Jonas Synnergren (present member) h. Arja Talma (present member) i. Kjersti Wiklund (present member) j.Lars Rohde (new member) Birger Steen is not available for re-election. Lars Rohde (69), a Danish citizen, is recognised as a leading banking professional with a profound understanding of the Danish financial sector and society. During his 40-year career in the banking industry, Lars Rohde has held positions both as a commercial finance executive and financial services official. For the last 10 years, he was the Governor of the National Bank of Denmark until stepping down from the role in 2023. Prior to this, he was the CEO of ATP, the largest pension company in Denmark. Lars Rohde was recently appointed a board member of the Aarhus University. The biographical details of the current Board members are available at www.nordea.com/en/about-us/corporate-governance/board-of-directors . The CV of the proposed new member of the Board of Directors is available at www.nordea.com/agm . Should any of the candidates presented above for any reason not be available for election to the Board of Directors, the remaining available candidates are proposed to be elected in accordance with the proposal by the Shareholders' Nomination Board. All proposed Board members have given their consent to being elected as members of the Board of Directors and Sir Stephen Hester has given his consent to being re-elected as Chair of the Board of Directors. Relevant authority approval for the proposed new Board member is pending. In addition to the above proposed Board members, the Board of Directors has three ordinary members and one deputy member elected by the employees of the Nordea Group. As of the end of the Annual General Meeting on 21 March 2024 and until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, the employees have elected Joanna Koskinen, Gerhard Olsson and Kasper Skovgaard Pedersen as ordinary members of the Board of Directors and Jrgen Lnnquist as a deputy member of the Board of Directors. Relevant authority approval for Jrgen Lnnquist is pending. It is the collective opinion of the Shareholders' Nomination Board and Nordea Bank Abp that the proposed Board of Directors and its members are suitable for the assignment both collectively and individually and that Sir Stephen Hester is suitable for the position as Chair of the Board of Directors. All proposed Board members are, in accordance with the Finnish Corporate Governance Code, independent of Nordea's significant shareholders and, excluding Board members elected by the employees, also considered independent of the company. The ordinary members and the deputy member of the Board of Directors elected by the employees are employed by the Nordea Group and, therefore, they are not independent of the company. 15. Resolution on the remuneration of the auditor The Board of Directors proposes, on the recommendation of the Board Audit Committee, to the Annual General Meeting that the remuneration of the auditor is to be paid according to the invoice approved by the Company. 16. Election of the auditor The Board of Directors proposes, on the recommendation of the Board Audit Committee, to the Annual General Meeting that authorised public accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy be re-elected as the Company's auditor until the end of the following Annual General Meeting. PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy has notified the Company that the authorised public accountant Jukka Paunonen would act as the responsible auditor. 17. Resolution on the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer Pursuant to the legislative amendment that entered into force on 31 December 2023, the Annual General Meeting must, in accordance with Chapter 7, Section 6a of the Finnish Companies Act, elect an assurer of the Company's sustainability reporting. The assurance of the sustainability reporting can be carried out by an authorised sustainability auditor or an authorised sustainability audit firm as referred to in the Finnish Auditing Act. The Board of Directors proposes, on the recommendation of the Board Audit Committee, to the Annual General Meeting that the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer to be elected is to be paid according to the invoice approved by the Company. 18. Election of the sustainability reporting assurer The Board of Directors proposes, on the recommendation of the Board Audit Committee, to the Annual General Meeting that the authorised sustainability audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy is elected as the assurer of the Company's sustainability reporting until the end of the following Annual General Meeting. PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy has notified the Company that the authorised sustainability auditor Jukka Paunonen would act as the responsible sustainability reporting auditor. 19. Resolution on the authorisation for the Board of Directors to decide on the issuance of special rights entitling to shares (convertibles) in the Company Nordea Bank Abp is required to satisfy certain capital requirements pursuant to EU and Finnish legislation. Within this legislative framework, capital instruments that absorb losses by converting into shares can be used to meet parts of the capital requirements. The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to decide on the issuance of such capital instruments. The purpose of the authorisation is to facilitate a flexible and efficient adjustment of the Company's capital structure to the capital requirements. The authorisation enables the Board of Directors to swiftly carry out issuances without first holding an Extraordinary General Meeting, which the Board of Directors considers appropriate given that these capital instruments are principally intended to be issued in the international capital markets. The Board of Directors intends to use the authorisation if the Board of Directors determines that the capital trigger level at which conversion shall take place is at such a level that gives the shareholders and the Board of Directors the possibility to act in good time and propose alternatives to conversion. In light of the above, the Board of Directors of the Company proposes to the Annual General Meeting to resolve to authorise the Board of Directors to decide, on one or several occasions, on the issuance of special rights entitling to either new shares in the Company or treasury shares, against payment (convertibles) in accordance with or in deviation from the shareholder's pre-emptive subscription rights. The maximum number of shares that may be issued based on this authorisation shall be 340,000,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 9.7% of all the shares in the Company on the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting. The Board of Directors shall be authorised to decide on all other matters relating to the issuance of the special rights entitling to shares in the Company. The issuance of the special rights entitling to shares by virtue of this authorisation shall be made on market terms and principally be issued in the international capital markets. The authorisation shall remain in force and effect until the earlier of (i) the end of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company or (ii) 18 months from the resolution of the Annual General Meeting of the Company. If this authorisation is granted, it will revoke the authorisation to decide on the issuance of special rights entitling to shares (convertibles) in the Company granted to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting on 23 March 2023. 20. Resolution on the repurchase of the Company's own shares in the securities trading business In its securities trading business, Nordea Bank Abp, among other things, acts as a market maker in its own shares on the relevant stock exchanges and in indices in which the Company's shares form a significant part, as well as offers share-related products. Should the Company not be able to trade in its own shares, the Company would not be able to provide a full range of products in the same manner as its competitors, which would lead to the Company losing market shares, and it would not be able to fulfil its current market maker undertakings towards relevant stock exchanges and the financial markets at large. The Company's holdings of its own shares in the trading book shall not at any time exceed the applicable limits decided by the European Central Bank. In light of the above, the Board of Directors of the Company proposes to the Annual General Meeting to resolve that the Company, for the purpose of the ordinary course of its securities trading business as a credit institution, may repurchase its own shares as follows. The Company's own shares are repurchased otherwise than in proportion to the existing shareholdings of the Company's shareholders (directed repurchases). The facilitation of the Company's securities trading business, in which the ability to also trade in the Company's own shares is required, forms a weighty financial reason for directed repurchases. The maximum number of the Company's own shares to be repurchased shall not exceed 175,000,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 5.0% of all the shares in the Company on the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting. The Company's own shares may be repurchased on any trading venue or in transactions with counterparties of the securities trading business outside of a trading venue or through the use of derivative instruments, in each case, at arms-length market terms and price prevailing at the time of the repurchase or the time of entry into the relevant derivative instrument, as the case may be. The Company's own shares to be repurchased shall be offered to the Company no later than at the time of the repurchase and shall be paid for no later than upon the delivery of such shares. The Company's own shares are repurchased using the unrestricted equity of the Company. The Company's own shares under this resolution shall be repurchased before the end of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company. 21. Resolution on the transfer of the Company's own shares in the securities trading business In its securities trading business, Nordea Bank Abp, among other things, acts as a market maker in its own shares on the relevant stock exchanges and in indices in which the Company's shares form a significant part, as well as offers share-related products. Should the Company not be able to trade in its own shares, the Company would not be able to provide a full range of products in the same manner as its competitors, which would lead to the Company losing market shares, and it would not be able to fulfil its current market maker undertakings towards relevant stock exchanges and the financial markets at large. In light of the above, the Board of Directors of the Company proposes to the Annual General Meeting to resolve that the Company, for the purpose of the ordinary course of its securities trading business as a credit institution, may transfer its existing own shares for consideration as follows. The Company may transfer its own shares in the ordinary course of its securities trading business in deviation from the shareholders' pre-emptive subscription rights by way of a directed share issuance. The facilitation of the Company's securities trading business, in which the ability to also trade in the Company's own shares is required, forms a weighty financial reason for a directed issuance. The maximum number of the Company's own shares to be transferred shall not exceed 175,000,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 5.0% of all the shares in the Company on the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting. The Company's own shares may be transferred through any trading venue or in transactions with counterparties of the securities trading business outside of a trading venue or through the use of derivative instruments, in each case, at arms-length market terms and price prevailing at the time of the transfer or at the time of the entry into the relevant derivative instrument, as the case may be. The Company's own shares that may be transferred shall be subscribed for no later than at the time of the transfer and shall be paid for no later than upon the delivery of such shares. The subscription price shall be recorded in the invested unrestricted equity of the Company. The Company's own shares shall be transferred before the subscription period expires, which will be at the end of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company. It is proposed that the Annual General Meeting resolves to approve all subscriptions that will be made in accordance with the terms and conditions of the directed issuance. 22. Resolution on the authorisation for the Board of Directors to decide on the repurchase of the Company's own shares Pursuant to its dividend policy Nordea Bank Abp will continuously assess the opportunity to use share buy-backs as a tool to distribute excess capital. In line with these considerations, the Board of Directors of the Company proposes to the Annual General Meeting to resolve to authorise the Board of Directors, on one or several occasions, to decide on the repurchase of an aggregate of not more than 340,000,000 shares in the Company, which corresponds to approximately 9.7% of all the shares in the Company on the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting, subject to the condition that the number of own shares held by the Company together with its subsidiaries at any given time may not exceed 10% of all the shares in the Company. The Company's own shares may be repurchased as follows: a) Not more than 340,000,000 shares may be repurchased to distribute excess capital in order to optimise the capital structure of the Company. The purpose of such repurchase is to optimise the capital position and to increase sustainable shareholder return to the benefit of all shareholders. b) Not more than 8,000,000 shares may be repurchased to be used in the Company's variable pay plans in accordance with regulatory requirements and/or as required for new variable pay plans for executive officers, senior management, other material risk takers and other employees, as appropriate. The Company's own shares may only be repurchased using the unrestricted equity of the Company. The shares may be repurchased either through an offer to all shareholders on equal terms or through other means and otherwise than in proportion to the existing shareholdings of the Company's shareholders (directed repurchases). The highest purchase price per share shall be no more than the higher of (i) the highest price paid for the Company's shares in public trading on the day of repurchase or alternatively (ii) the average of the share prices (volume weighted average price on the regulated markets where the Company's share is admitted to trading) during the five trading days preceding the repurchase or the offer to repurchase own shares, and the lowest purchase price per share shall be the price that is 20% lower than the lower of (i) the lowest price paid for the Company's shares in public trading on the day of repurchase or alternatively (ii) the average of the share prices (volume weighted average price on the regulated markets where the Company's share is admitted to trading) during the five trading days preceding the repurchase or the offer to repurchase own shares. Furthermore, in connection with the repurchases of its own shares, the Company may enter into derivative, share lending or other similar arrangements. The Board of Directors shall be authorised to decide on all other terms relating to the repurchases of the Company's own shares. The authorisation shall remain in force and effect for 18 months from the resolution of the Annual General Meeting of the Company. If this authorisation is granted, it will not revoke the authorisation to decide on the repurchase of the Company's own shares granted to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting on 23 March 2023 which, in accordance with that authorisation, will remain in effect until 23 September 2024. In addition to the above terms, it is noted that any resolution by the Board of Directors to repurchase shares based on the proposed authorisation will also be subject to the condition that the Company has obtained the necessary regulatory permissions from the European Central Bank. 23. Resolution on the authorisation for the Board of Directors to decide on share issuances or transfers of the Company's own shares The Board of Directors of the Company proposes to the Annual General Meeting to resolve to authorise the Board of Directors, on one or several occasions, to decide on the issuance of new shares or transfer of the Company's own shares of not more than 30,000,000 shares in the Company, which corresponds to approximately 0.9% of all the shares in the Company on the date of this notice to the Annual General Meeting. The shares may be issued or transferred in proportion to the Company's shareholders' existing shareholdings in the Company or in deviation from the shareholders' pre-emptive subscription right by way of a directed issuance. The shares to be issued or transferred in this way may be used (a) to implement the Company's variable pay plans in accordance with regulatory requirements and/or as required for new variable pay plans for executive officers, senior management, other material risk takers and other employees, as appropriate, or (b) as payment in connection with corporate acquisitions. The Board of Directors shall be authorised to decide on all other terms relating to the issuance of new shares in the Company or transfers of the Company's own shares. The authorisation shall remain in force and effect until the earlier of (i) the end of the next Annual General Meeting of the Company or (ii) 18 months from the resolution of the Annual General Meeting of the Company. If this authorisation is granted, it will revoke the authorisation to decide on share issuances or transfers of the Company's own shares granted to the Board of Directors by the Annual General Meeting on 23 March 2023. 24. Shareholder proposal for amendment of the Company's Articles of Association Nordea has received a shareholder proposal set out below for a matter to be addressed in the Annual General Meeting pursuant to Chapter 5 Section 5 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act. After thorough review and consideration of the proposal with regard to the Company's strategy, business, and good governance, the Board of Directors concluded that it does not recommend adoption of the proposed amendment to the Company's Articles of Association. The Board believes that the proposed amendment would be problematic to Nordea because of, among other things, the forced curtailing of customer relationships and potentially being contradictory to other applicable banking regulation. This would impact not only Nordea's ability to serve its customers and the society as a whole but also limit its ability to encourage a more impactful climate transition for the customers and society. The Board of Directors therefore recommends the rejection of the proposed amendment. It is important to stress that Nordea shares the strong sentiment on climate change that motivates the proposed amendment and agrees with the importance of reducing emissions and mitigating negative climate and nature effects, as well as focusing on related transition plans and reporting. The societal transition is of utmost importance and a key priority for Nordea. The proposed amendment would not help us create a positive impact in the real economy but rather limit our ability to do so. The Board of Directors does not consider that the Company's Articles of Association are an appropriate mechanism for stipulating on such matters - this is because Nordea is subject to extensive and detailed banking regulation that includes also climate and related reporting and because the corporate governance model and related legislation applicable to Nordea defines that the Company's strategy and monitoring its implementation is one of the most essential tasks of the Board of Directors, not the shareholders'. The starting point for Nordea in relation to climate and nature policies is our commitment to align our business strategy with key conclusions in the Paris agreement. Our commitment was approved by the Board of Directors early 2020, and implies that our emissions by 2050 should be net zero, taking into consideration both own operations and value chain. In addition, we have made the industry leading commitment to reduce emissions by 2030 by 40-50%, to be on the right trajectory towards the 2050 objective. These commitments cover all lending and investment portfolios. These are ambitious targets and Nordea is currently the only Nordic bank that has committed to such an overarching emission reduction target. Concretely, Nordea's 2030 objective is supported by sector-specific climate targets aligned with science-based pathways and regional sector roadmaps. Specifically regarding the oil & gas industry, we have taken firm decisions to ensure that our policies for this sector are aligned with the Group targets for 2030 and 2050 respectively. One key decision was to update our fossil fuel sector guideline to explicitly state that we do not provide project financing with the purpose to expand extraction of oil and/or gas. These sector targets and policies are steering how we develop our business plan and set the direction for how we interact and engage with customers. Our engagement strategy implies that we support corporates that have ambitious transition plans, and share Nordea's views on the long-term target to limit the temperature increase by 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial level. We believe that it is better to engage and influence customers to contribute to the transition, rather than to stop supporting customers with a challenging transition pathway. This implies that we are having close dialogue with our corporate customers to verify the maturity of their transition plans and targets to reduce emissions. In the short term, our target for 2025 is that 90% of our exposure to large corporates in climate vulnerable sectors is to be covered by transition plans. For smaller companies the process will take more time, reflecting the maturity and data availability for this customer segment. If customers do not share our view on the need to transition, the relationship will discontinue. Specifically for our oil and gas portfolio this has led to a significant drop in the total number of oil & gas customers we continue doing business with. Our financed emissions from lending to oil & gas companies are down by 85% since 2019. This demonstrates that we are executing on our policies and commitments. More details on our roadmap to reach our emission targets are described in Nordea's new progress report on climate actions and targets published on 14 December 2023 which is available at https://www.nordea.com/en/doc/climate-targets-and-actions-for-the-lending-portfolio.pdf . The report is our first step to provide further details on our targets and the actions taken to achieve them. Nordea's aim is to continuously develop the scope and details in how we report on the overall transition progress. Nordea is still engaging with a small number of oil and gas clients to support and encourage a transition away from fossil fuels towards renewables. However, the transition is not without challenges and there are individual cases that require special attention to navigate, e.g. to ensure a balanced and just transition and stable energy supply in our neighbouring region in the current geopolitical climate. Nordea's current position is that an even more radical exit from the sector could lead to other adverse effects, including issues related to social sustainability. Therefore the Board of Directors believes that Nordea has the right targets, a credible plan towards the medium and long-term targets, and a progressive engagement strategy that balances different sustainability targets. Abruptly curtailing relationships with customers before they have time to develop transition plans would be a damaging alternative path which the Board strongly opposes. Sustainability is at the core of Nordea's business strategy - integrated into all aspects of our business, from the product offering and investment decisions to internal operations. Adopting the Company's strategy and overseeing its proper implementation are integral duties of the Board of Directors. Stipulating on the Company's strategy in the Articles of Association, even in key areas such as sustainability, is not in line with widely recognised corporate governance practices. The proposed amendment to the Articles of Association contains room for interpretation creating undue uncertainty on the proper application thereof. Further, such provision guiding very specific areas of the Company's strategy would result in unclarity in the established division of duties and responsibilities between the shareholders' meeting and the Board of Directors. Moreover, Nordea will publish its first Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) report as part of the Annual Report 2024 and will continue to publish its progress report on climate actions and targets in the coming years. Therefore, the Board of Directors does not recommend the adoption of the proposed amendment to the Company's Articles of Association. Shareholders Greenpeace Nordic, Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (Naturskyddsforeningen) and Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke / Action Aid Denmark propose that the Articles of Association are amended by adding a new article 4, worded a follows: "4. Business activities aligned with the Paris Agreement The company's strategy shall fully align with the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. The company will therefore not provide lending and underwriting to companies and projects that expand fossil fuel extraction and/or lack Paris-aligned phase-out plans." The proposal submitted by the shareholders is available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm . 25. Closing of the meeting B. Documents of the Annual General Meeting This notice, which includes the agenda of the Annual General Meeting, the resolution proposals, and the organisational document of the Annual General Meeting, are available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm . The annual report, containing the annual accounts, the Board of Directors' report and the Auditor's report, and the remuneration report for governing bodies as well as the amended remuneration policy for governing bodies are available on said website as of 29 February 2024 at the latest. These documents will also be viewable at the meeting. The minutes of the Annual General Meeting will be available on the above-mentioned website as of 4 April 2024 at the latest. C. Instructions for the participants in the Annual General Meeting The registration for the Annual General Meeting and the advance voting will commence on 29 February 2024 and end on 13 March 2024 at 23.59 EET. Instructions on registration for the Annual General Meeting for shareholders wishing to participate in the meeting at the meeting venue are set out in subsections 1, 2 and 3 below. The instructions for advance voting are set out in subsection 4 below. In connection with the registration and advance voting, at least the following information is requested: the shareholder's name, national identification number (except for shareholders with shares registered with VP Securities A/S in Denmark) or business ID, email address, address, telephone number and information on a possible authorised representative. Strong electronic identification of private persons for registration on the Company's website requires the use of Finnish, Swedish or Danish online banking IDs or mobile certificates. Instructions for holders of nominee registered shares are set out below under subsection "6. Holders of nominee registered shares". For shareholders that are Finnish legal persons, electronic registration requires providing the entity's business ID and that the relevant authorised person uses strong electronic identification for the registration. For shareholders that are legal persons with shares registered with Euroclear Sweden AB in Sweden or with shares registered with VP Securities A/S in Denmark, registration requires providing the entity's business ID, name of the shareholder, name and birthdate of the authorised representative, and an email address, address and telephone number as contact information. Information on proxy documents and Suomi.fi authorisations is set out in subsection 5 below. The personal data provided by the shareholders to the Company is only used in connection with the Annual General Meeting and the processing of related registrations. For further information on how Nordea processes your personal data, please visit www.nordea.com/en/privacy-policy . More information on registration for the meeting and advance voting is available until 13 March 2024 by phone from Innovatics Ltd at +358 10 2818 909 from Monday to Friday between 9.00 and 12.00 EET and between 13.00 and 16.00 EET. The meeting can also be followed online via a live webcast on Nordea's website. It is possible to submit questions to the Q&A session with senior management before and during the webcast. Such questions do not constitute questions referred to in Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Companies Act, and following the meeting via webcast does not constitute official participation in the Annual General Meeting. More information on the webcast and submitting questions before the Annual General Meeting is set out in subsection 7 below. 1. Shareholders with shares registered with Euroclear Finland Oy in Finland Each shareholder who is registered in the shareholders' register of the Company maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy on 11 March 2024 has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting. A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder's personal Finnish book-entry account is registered in the shareholders' register of the Company. A shareholder who is registered in the Company's shareholders' register and who wishes to participate in the Annual General Meeting shall notify the Company thereof according to the instructions set out below. Notification of participation shall be made no later than by 23.59 EET on 13 March 2024 electronically on the Company's website: www.nordea.com/agm by email to agm@innovatics.fi or or by regular mail: Innovatics Ltd, AGM/Nordea, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland. 2. Shareholders with shares registered with Euroclear Sweden AB in Sweden Each shareholder who is registered in the shareholders' register of the Company maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB on 11 March 2024 has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting. Such shareholders are re-registered by the Company in the shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy provided that the shareholder has notified the Company thereof in accordance with the instructions set out below. Notification of participation shall be made no later than by 23.59 EET on 13 March 2024 electronically on the Company's website: www.nordea.com/agm by email to agm@innovatics.fi or or by regular mail: Innovatics Ltd, AGM/Nordea, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland. Shareholders whose shares are held in trust in Sweden must instruct the trustee to re-register their shares in the shareholders' own name in the shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB in good time prior to 13 March 2024, which is the deadline for re-registration. 3. Shareholders with shares registered with VP Securities A/S in Denmark Each shareholder who is registered in the shareholders' register of the Company maintained by VP Securities A/S on 11 March 2024 has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting. Such shareholders are re-registered by the Company in the shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy provided that the shareholder has notified the Company thereof in accordance with the instructions set out below. Notification of participation shall be made no later than by 23.59 EET on 13 March 2024 electronically on the Company's website: www.nordea.com/agm by email to agm@innovatics.fi or or by regular mail: Innovatics Ltd, AGM/Nordea, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland. Shareholders whose shares are held in trust in Denmark must instruct the trustee to re-register their shares in the shareholders' own name in the shareholders' register maintained by VP Securities A/S in good time prior to 11 March 2024, which is the deadline for re-registration. 4. Advance voting Shareholders may vote in advance on certain items on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting. Advance voting commences on 29 February 2024 and ends on 13 March 2024 at 23.59 EET. Each shareholder who is registered in the shareholders' register of the Company maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy as described in subsection 1 above, in the shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB as described in subsection 2 above, or in the shareholders' register maintained by VP Securities A/S as described in subsection 3 above may vote in advance: electronically on the Company's website: www.nordea.com/agm by emailing the advance voting form available on the Company's website to: agm@innovatics.fi or or by regular mail by sending the advance voting form available on the Company's website to: Innovatics Ltd, AGM/Nordea, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland. Shareholders whose shares are held in trust in Sweden or Denmark and who wish to vote in advance are advised to instruct the trustee to vote in advance on behalf of such shareholders by 23.59 EET on 13 March 2024 at the latest according to the instructions set out in this notice. A shareholder who has voted in advance may request information under the Finnish Companies Act, request a vote at the Annual General Meeting or vote on a possible counterproposal if they are present or represented at the Annual General Meeting at the meeting venue. Further instructions for advance voting will be available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm on 29 February 2024 at the latest. 5. Proxy representative and powers of attorney A shareholder of the Company may participate in the Annual General Meeting and exercise their shareholders' rights at the meeting and/or vote in advance through a proxy representative. A proxy representative shall produce a dated proxy document or otherwise in a reliable manner demonstrate their right to represent the shareholder at the Annual General Meeting and/or vote in advance. When a shareholder participates in the Annual General Meeting or votes in advance through several proxy representatives representing the shareholder with shares on different securities accounts, the shares by which each proxy representative represents the shareholder shall be identified in the proxy documents. The proxy documents shall be delivered primarily as attachments in connection with registering on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm , or by email to agm@innovatics.fi , or mailed or delivered as originals to: Innovatics Ltd, AGM/Nordea, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki, Finland, in good time and they must arrive by 23.59 EET on 13 March 2024 at the latest. The original proxy documents shall be presented to the Company upon request. Further instructions, including a proxy template, will be available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm . Shareholders that are legal entities can also use the electronic Suomi.fi authorisation service for authorising proxies. For such authorisation, a shareholder authorises a representative in the Suomi.fi service at www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations (using the authorisation topic "Representation at the General Meeting"). When registering, the representative must identify themselves with strong electronic identification using their personal Finnish online banking IDs or a mobile certificate, after which the electronic mandate is automatically checked. For more information, see www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations. 6. Holders of nominee registered shares A holder of nominee registered shares has the right to participate in the Annual General Meeting by virtue of the shares based on which they on the record date of the Annual General Meeting on 11 March 2024 would be entitled to be registered in the shareholders' register of the Company maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy. The right to participate in the Annual General Meeting requires, in addition, that the shareholder on the basis of such shares has been registered in the temporary shareholders' register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy by 10.00 EET on 18 March 2024 at the latest. In terms of nominee registered shares, this constitutes due registration for the Annual General Meeting. A holder of nominee registered shares is advised to request, without delay, the relevant instructions regarding the registration in the temporary shareholders' register of the Company, the issuing of proxy documents and registration for the Annual General Meeting from their custodian bank. The account management organisation of the custodian bank shall register a holder of nominee registered shares who wants to participate in the Annual General Meeting in the temporary shareholders' register of the Company and vote in advance on behalf of the nominee registered shareholder by 10.00 EET on 18 March 2024 at the latest. For the avoidance of doubt, instructions for shareholders whose shares are held in trust in Sweden or Denmark are set out above in subsection "2. Shareholders with shares registered with Euroclear Sweden AB in Sweden" and in subsection "3. Shareholders with shares registered with VP Securities A/S in Denmark", respectively. Further instructions are available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm . 7. Webcast of the Annual General Meeting and other information The meeting can be followed online via a live webcast. Detailed instructions on following the webcast will be available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm before the Annual General Meeting. It will be possible to submit questions in writing to the Q&A session with senior management before and during the webcast. Before the meeting, questions can be submitted by email to agm@nordea.com or by regular mail to Nordea AGM / Group Legal SATA V5A, Satamaradankatu 5, FI-00020 Nordea, Finland. The Company will strive to answer all questions that are received before the Annual General Meeting. Questions submitted before the meeting or through the webcast will not constitute questions referred to in Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Companies Act. Following the meeting via webcast is not considered as participation in the Annual General Meeting. Shareholders following the meeting via webcast may exercise their voting rights by voting on the matters on the agenda in advance in accordance with the instructions provided in subsection 4 above. Shareholders are kindly asked to take into account that there is no reserved parking space available at the Annual General Meeting venue or in its vicinity and that the Company will not cover any parking fees. The Company therefore encourages shareholders who wish to attend the Annual General Meeting at the venue to arrive with public transport, or alternatively make use of the advance voting and webcast. The Annual General Meeting will be conducted mainly in Swedish, and partly in Finnish and English. Simultaneous interpretation will be available into Swedish, Finnish and English. Shareholders, assistants and proxy representatives must be able to prove their identity and/or right of representation at the meeting venue upon request. Information on the Annual General Meeting required by the Finnish Companies Act and the Securities Markets Act is available on the Company's website at www.nordea.com/agm . Pursuant to Chapter 5, Section 25 of the Finnish Companies Act, a shareholder who is present at the Annual General Meeting has the right to ask questions and request information with respect to the matters to be considered at the meeting. Changes in shareholding after the record date do not affect the right to attend the Annual General Meeting or the number of votes. On the day of this notice to the Annual General Meeting, 21 February 2024, the total number of shares in the Company is 3,521,499,960, which equals 3,521,499,960 votes. Helsinki on 21 February 2024 Nordea Bank Abp Board of Directors This notice is published in English, Swedish and Finnish. In the event of any inconsistencies between the language versions, the Swedish version shall prevail. For further information: Ilkka Ottoila, Head of Investor Relations, +358 9 5300 7058 Media inquiries, +358 10 416 8023 or press@nordea.com The information provided in this stock exchange release was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact set out above, at 9.00 EET on 21 February 2024. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com . End of Media Release TOKYO, Feb 21, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has presented its "Best Innovation 2023" awards to 18 products, technologies and services related to its business activities and growth strategies that contribute to the preservation and protection of the global environment and mitigation of environmental harm, thereby contributing to the realization of a carbon neutral society. Through this in-house program, the Company aims to raise environmental awareness and encourage further innovation among its groupwide employees.Of this year's 18 award-winning recipients, here we introduce 12 innovations related to the Company's strategic growth areas that will contribute to reduction of environmental impacts.M701JAC: A large frame gas turbine that contributes to a decarbonized society through world-class efficiency and operation flexibilityMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Energy SystemsThe Energy Systems domain developed and commercialized a system for enhanced air cooling of combustors that also enables control of turbine tip clearance by supplying cool air to turbine blade ring in response to the turbine's load. Based on the widely adopted J Series gas turbine which feature a turbine inlet temperature of 1,600C, the M701JAC's turbine inlet temperature has been increased to 1,650C. This model has also achieved world-class efficiency as a gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) power generation system, and features an improved load change rate and shorter startup time, resulting in outstanding efficiency and operation flexibility in all load ranges. By enhancing the operating ease of the large frame 50Hz model, this model is ready to meet user demand for stable power supplies with GTCC thermal power systems in tomorrow's decarbonized society.An Automatic Picking Solution That Realizes Manpower Conservation through the Linking and Optimization of Logistics MachineryMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Logistics, Thermal & Drive SystemsThe Logistics, Thermal & Drive Systems domain developed an automated picking solution integrating automated guided forklifts (AGFs), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and palletizers for stacking products such as beverage cases on pallets. Commercialization of a system responding further to user needs was achieved together with Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd., and following a joint demonstration in collaboration with a beverage company, the first order for the system was received in November 2023. Through systemization of the operating expertise of experienced workers and applying optimized technologies, a near 40% increase in throughput was achieved compared to earlier automated systems. In collaboration with MHI's Integrated Defense & Space Systems domain, the system's InteRSePT-based cybersecurity capability was also expanded. An anchorless construction method enables easy equipment installation and layout changes-, a feature that has brought accolades from multi-tenant warehouse owners.Proprietary "anti-bulging bender" technology enabling stable continuous castingPrimetals Technologies, GBU UpstreamPrimetals Technologies developed and commercialized "anti-bulging bender," a proprietary technology that stabilizes the continuous casting process by appropriately changing the position of the rollers that hold slabs during the casting of thin slabs from molten steel, and minimizes the impact of slab surface bulging on the molten steel in the mold. The technology helps to stabilize the level of molten steel in the mold and enables production of products with minimal defects such as internal cracking during coagulation and segregation. It can also respond to demand from the automotive industry for the processing of high-grade steel.Unparalleled Level Control: Anti-Bulging Technology (primetals.com)A liquefied CO2 handling system that accelerates building of a CCUS value chainMitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., Strategic Planning & Operation OfficeCCUS is gathering an attention as an effective measure to achieve carbon-neutral society. Since CO2 emission site and place for storage/utilization is unevenly distributed on earth, realization of large-sized liquefied CO2 (LCO2) carrier is expected as efficient means of CO2 transportation. Unlike other liquefied gas such as LNG and LPG which has been transported by ship, it is crucial to control temperature and pressure since CO2 cannot remain liquefied at ambient pressure. By utilizing knowledge and expertise of MHI group, a "liquefied CO2 handling system" enabling transport of liquefied CO2 in large volumes is being developed. Whereas current liquefied CO2 carriers can accommodate only small-scale loads, development of a large-scale CO2 carriers will enable economic transport of liquefied CO2 and MHI group will greatly contribute to development of CCUS value chain and realization of carbon-neutral society.High-performance Hybrid Bag Filter contributing to decarbonization of waste treatment facilities and reduced environmental impactsMitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering Co., Ltd., Engineering DivisionMitsubishi Heavy Industries Environmental & Chemical Engineering has developed a high-performance Hybrid Bag Filter which, while maintaining filtration capability for conventional toxic substances, achieves a world-class dioxin filtration rate. The HBF was achieved by developing a unique catalyst supporting technology applicable to PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a fiber that repels catalyst slurry. PTFE offers outstanding durability, enabling replacement of the conventional glass fiber filter materials used in the precipitators of municipal waste incinerators. This improved durability cuts the life cycle cost (LCC) by 25% compared with earlier products, while its adaptability to waste incineration facilities enables reductions in energy to reheat denitration exhaust gas and supply active carbon to remove dioxins. The overall result is a 12% reduction in a plant's total CO2 emissions.Factory decarbonization project at Mihara Machinery Works demonstrating how CO2 emissions can be significantly reducedMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Value Chain HeadquartersIn 2022. a factory decarbonization project was launched at MHI's Mihara Machinery Works (Mihara, Hiroshima) with the aim of realizing net zero CO2 emissions, to serve as a location to demonstrate how to achieve carbon neutrality in practice. To date, the corporate and production divisions have worked closely to acquire practical knowhow for achieving overall energy savings and operational streamlining: for example, a solar power plant was created throughout the Works' total area (approx. 140,000m2), operational processes for all factory production equipment underwent review, and the number of uses of emergency power equipment during planned power outages was reduced. Together these efforts cut CO2 emissions by roughly 10,000 tons, equivalent to about 98% of all such emissions. This accomplishment has solidly demonstrated, both within and beyond MHI Group, the potential for realizing the Company's MISSION NET ZERO pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. It also enabled MHI to show customers a practical image of how carbon neutrality can be achieved.E-Isolation: Japan's first full-scale seismic isolation testing machine enabling verification of large-scale seismic isolation devicesMitsubishi Heavy Industries Machinery Systems, Ltd.,Machinery Engineering DepartmentInfrastructure Facilities Business DivisionJapan's first full-scale seismic isolation testing machine was completed with the technical collaboration between Tokyo Institute of Technology, Kyoto University, Taisei Corporation, Japan Seismic Isolation Laboratory and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Machinery Systems and began operation in June 2023.It has made possible the dynamic testing of earthquake resistance within Japan and can correctly measure the performance of full-sized seismic isolation bearings over one meter in diameter. Amid heightened awareness toward earthquake disasters following the major tremor that devastated the Noto Peninsula this January, effective use of this full-scale seismic isolation testing machine is expected to result in higher reliability of seismic-resistant and vibration-damping structures.Model predictive control technology realizing rapid load change operation of large gas turbines used for power generationMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Digital Innovation HeadquartersTo respond to demand for stable power supplies in a decarbonized society, MHI's Digital Innovation Headquarters developed next-generation control technology for large gas turbines that achieves a high ramp rate to cope swiftly with fluctuations in power generation output. The technology combines a high-temperature estimation method based on a physical model, and model predictive control that anticipates power output and turbine inlet temperature several seconds forward. Demonstration was achieved of 115 MW/min load change operation at the second T-point. This represents the world's first practical application of model-based predictive control for large gas turbines.Casting analysis technology that promotes decarbonization by reducing the weight of metal poured to produce large-sized cast steelMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Value Chain Headquarters / Research & Innovation CenterMHI's Value Chain Headquarters and Research & Innovation Center developed a high-precision casting analysis technology that promotes decarbonization by enabling 40% reductions in both the weight of steel needed for casting and power usage and CO2 emissions resulting from steel smelting. Application of the technology enables optimal placement of the metal cooling material that controls the temperature of the molten steel poured into the sand molds and the solidification order of the various parts. It also enables a significant reduction in excess parts formerly placed to control shrinkage holes that occur during solidification. As a newly developed technology which is both innovative and without precedent worldwide, going forward it is expected to promote decarbonization in casting fields.Cryogenic fluid pressure boosting and transportation technology enabling realization of a 90 MPa-class liquid hydrogen pump for hydrogen stationsMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Nuclear Energy SystemsMHI's Nuclear Energy Systems domain developed an ultra-high-pressure 90 MPa-class liquid hydrogen pump for hydrogen stations capable of stable provision of large flow volumes at 160 kg/h in the high-pressure range. By optimizing the pump through flow, structure and machine analyses, the pump's practicality was verified in long-term durability testing performed at FirstElement Fuel Inc.'s Hydrogen Distribution Hub in Livermore, CA, with zero emissions of boil-off gas (BOG) during operation. To raise the pressure of the liquid hydrogen directly, hydrogen supply capability was increased threefold compared to current hydrogen stations (compressor type), while energy consumption was reduced by approximately 25%.Promotion activities inaugurated toward realizing a carbon neutral society through full-scale operation of Takasago Hydrogen ParkMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Energy SystemsTakasago Hydrogen Park, the world's first integrated facility enabling verification of technologies from hydrogen production to power generation, went into full-scale operation at MHI's Takasago Machinery Works in Hyogo Prefecture, demonstrating the practical achievement of business in hydrogen, which is expected to be a viable next-generation energy resource. Diverse promotional facilities were established where presentations are given tailored to the needs of specific visitors and visitor groups are guided along set routes on the premises. For optimal effectiveness and efficiency, explanations are provided by automated guidance. In these ways, MHI Group has been making its initiatives toward realizing a carbon neutral society widely known.Selection as a core company for developing fast reactors and high-temperature gas-cooled reactors for realizing a carbon neutral societyMitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Nuclear Energy SystemsMHI was selected as a core company in charge of developing two demonstration reactors being promoted by the Japanese Government. One is a fast reactor that will contribute to making effective use of uranium resources and reduce the volume and toxicity of high-level radioactive waste. The other is a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor enabling stable supply of large volumes of hydrogen at high temperature, completely carbon-free. Selection was made in appraisal of the Company's abundant track record, outstanding technological capabilities, and comprehensive engineering capabilities, and it demonstrates how MHI possesses specific solutions for realizing a carbon neutral society.The "Best Innovation" program has been held annually since 2003 to recognize innovative new products, services, technologies, businesses and environmental activities within MHI Group, and going forward the Company will continue to pursue further technological innovations. By providing the world with outstanding products and technologies, MHI Group looks to contribute to realization of a sustainable society and to simultaneously enhance its corporate value through the long term.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.Source: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. Aqua Comms ("Aqua Comms"), a leading provider of global subsea connectivity services, has announced today that Jim Fagan, who served as the CEO, is leaving the business with immediate effect. Andy Hudson, the company's Chief Network Officer is now the acting CEO, and Chairman Alan Harper will continue to provide commercial and strategic assistance to the business through the remainder of 2024. Chairman Alan Harper commented, "Aqua Comms would like to thank Jim Fagan for the excellent work he has done in creating a healthy and growing business since joining in 2023, we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors. Aqua Comms continues to be in a strong position in the market and are optimistic about the future of the business." Aqua Comms continues to execute on its ambitious plans for multiple trans-atlantic routes and new geographical capabilities to meet current and future customer requirements. For more information about Aqua Comms visit: aquacomms.com. About Aqua Comms Aqua Comms is a leading provider of global subsea connectivity services delivered through an extensive portfolio of owned and operated subsea systems. Aqua Comms offers connectivity networking solutions including managed capacity services, spectrum and dark fibre to the global content, cloud and carrier markets. To learn more about Aqua Comms and its portfolio of connectivity networking solutions visit www.aquacomms.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221329574/en/ Contacts: iMiller Public Relations for Aqua Comms Tel: +1 866 307 2510 pr@imillerpr.com ANKARA (dpa-AFX) - Turkish consumer morale deteriorated in February for the first time since August amid declines in both financial and economic expectations, preliminary data from the statistical office Turkstat showed Wednesday. The consumer confidence index fell to 79.3 from 80.4 in January. Households' assessment of the present financial situation weakened modestly, while their view on the outlook eased sharply. Expectations of the general economic situation in the next 12 months declined drastically from the previous month. Consumers were also less inclined to make big purchases in February. 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. JERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "Global PARP Inhibitors Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Niraparib (Zejula), Olaparib (Lynparza), Rucaparib (Rubraca), Talazoparib (Talzenna), Veliparib, Other Pipeline Drugs), By Indication (breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate and pancreatic cancer), Region, Market Outlook And Industry Analysis 2031" The global PARP Inhibitors market is estimated to reach over USD 10.31 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.78% during the forecast period for 2023-2031. PARP Inhibitors Market Report Scope: Report Attribute Specifications Market Size Value In 2022 USD 3,071.9 Mn Revenue Forecast In 2031 USD 10,317.3 Mn Growth Rate CAGR CAGR of 14.78% from 2023 to 2031 Quantitative Units Representation of revenue in US$ Mn and CAGR from 2023 to 2031 Historic Year 2019 to 2022 Forecast Year 2023-2031 Report Coverage The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends Segments Covered By Product and Indication Regional Scope North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa Country Scope U.S.; Canada; U.K.; Germany; China; India; Japan; Brazil; Mexico; The UK; France; Italy; Spain; China; Japan; India; South Korea; South East Asia; South Korea; South East Asia Get Sample copy of the Global PARP Inhibitors Market Report at: https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/request-sample/1169 PolyaDP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors consist of extended chains composed of 17 enzymes, which enable the transport of numerous ADP-ribose units to the intended target proteins. When DNA is harmed by various circumstances, including using multiple anti-cancer medications and exposure to UV radiation, this aids in its restoration. PARP inhibitors prevent an enzyme required for the repair of DNA single-strand breaks. Inhibition of this DNA repair enzyme can cause cell death in cancer cells that lack alternative DNA repair pathways. Hence, these inhibitors are widely utilized to treat a variety of malignancies, including ovarian and breast cancer. The market growth is predicted to be fueled by leading players' emphasis on research and development to create new products. Furthermore, the global market for PARP inhibitors is projected to grow as cancer incidence rates. However, market expansion is propelled by the strategic developments of market participants. The market for PARP inhibitors is anticipated to expand due to increased demand resulting from their efficacy. Significant factors expected to contribute to the market's substantial growth potential for PARP inhibitors are an increased emphasis by governments of developing countries on improving healthcare accessibility and a heightened awareness of contemporary technologies. List of Prominent Players in the PARP Inhibitors Market: Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. Merck KGaA GSK plc. Pfizer Inc. AbbVie Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Artios Pharma Genentech, Inc. Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc. Repare Therapeutics Inc ONO PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD Jiangsu Hengrui Pharma Co., Ltd. Bristol-Myers Squibb Co AstraZeneca plc Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. Eisai Co., Ltd. IMPACT Therapeutics JEIL PHARMA CO.,LTD. Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd SyntheX Market Dynamics: Drivers- Over the forecast period, the global market for PARP inhibitors is anticipated to expand due to the rising cancer incidence and the demand for pharmaceuticals. In addition, PARP inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents may be utilized to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. It is anticipated that expanding research and development in cancer treatment will present manufacturers with advantageous prospects to introduce novel medications into the PARP inhibitor market. Challenges: PARP inhibitor side effects impede the market's growth. Strict regulations will prevent resistance to PARP inhibitors, another issue impeding market expansion. However, high expenses associated with clinical trials, stringent regulations, and frequent product recalls limit the market. Regional Trends: In the near future, the North American market for PARP Inhibitors is anticipated to account for a substantial portion of the revenue and expand at a rapid CAGR due to the region's advanced healthcare industry and substantial healthcare expenditures. The accessibility of authorized PARP inhibitors and the rising incidence of solid tumors in the region are two significant factors influencing the market's expansion. The demand for PARP inhibitors in the region is anticipated to increase over the forecast period due to the introduction of new products, the presence of significant market participants that emphasize research and development, and a rise in cancer incidence. Besides, Asia Pacific had a substantial share in the PARP Inhibitors market because of the expanding population. Due to increasing R&D efforts and healthcare spending, the Asia Pacific market is predicted to expand more quickly. It is anticipated that the demand for PARP inhibitors will grow due to investments made by large corporations in developing nations to meet unmet needs and strengthen their competitiveness. Curious about this latest version of the report? @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/enquiry-before-buying/1169 Recent Developments: In February 2023, The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced updated results from the Phase 3 MAGNITUDE study evaluating the investigational use of niraparib, a highly selective poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone (AAP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with or without specific homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene alterations, including BRCA mutations. Results will be featured today in a Rapid Abstract Session (Abstract #170) at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium, taking place February 16-18. The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced updated results from the Phase 3 MAGNITUDE study evaluating the investigational use of niraparib, a highly selective poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone (AAP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with or without specific homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene alterations, including BRCA mutations. Results will be featured today in a Rapid Abstract Session (Abstract #170) at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium, taking place February 16-18. In October 2023, Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. In October 2023, Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex-China) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. Segmentation of PARP Inhibitors Market- By Drug Type- Niraparib (Zejula) Olaparib (Lynparza) Rucaparib (Rubraca) Talazoparib (Talzenna) Veliparib Other Pipeline Drugs By Indication- Ovarian Cancer Breast cancer Prostate and Pancreatic Cancer By Region- North America- The US Canada Mexico Europe- Germany The UK France Italy Spain Rest of Europe Asia-Pacific- China Japan India South Korea South East Asia Rest of Asia Pacific Latin America- Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America Middle East & Africa- GCC Countries South Africa Rest of Middle East and Africa For More Customization @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/customisation/1169 Why should buy this report: To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for global PARP Inhibitors market To receive industry overview and future trends of global PARP Inhibitors market To analyse the PARP Inhibitors market drivers and challenges To get information on PARP Inhibitors market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2031 Major Investments, Mergers & Acquisition in global PARP Inhibitors market industry Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic: PD-1 and PD-L1 Inhibitors Market Oncology Drug Discovery & Development Market Bruton Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) Inhibitors Market Next Generation Complement Therapeutics Market KRAS Inhibitors Market About Us: InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis with key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner. Contact Us: InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. Tel.: +1 718 593 4405 Email: info@insightaceanalytic.com Site Visit: www.insightaceanalytic.com Follow Us on LinkedIn @ bit.ly/2tBXsgS Follow Us On Facebook @ bit.ly/2H9jnDZ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1729637/InsightAce_Analytic_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/parp-inhibitors-market-to-reach-over-usd-10-31-billion-by-the-year-2031---exclusive-report-by-insightace-analytic-302067151.html LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Telecom major BT Group plc (BT-A.L) on Wednesday said it has agreed to sell its BT Tower to MCR Hotels for 275 million pounds. MCR hotels plans to preserve the tower as an iconic hotel. According to the telecom company, as the UK heads into a digital future many of the network operations that were traditionally provided by the tower are now being delivered via BT Group's fixed and mobile networks. 'We are proud to preserve this beloved building and will work to develop proposals to tell its story as an iconic hotel, opening its doors for generations to enjoy,' commented Tyler Morse, CEO of MCR Hotels. Currently, BT shares are trading at 106.95 pence, up 0.09% in London 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. JERUSALEM (dpa-AFX) - The United States has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the fighting in Gaza. The UN Security Council met again in emergency session in New York on Gaza Tuesday, where Algeria put forward a resolution on behalf of Arab States demanding 'an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties'. Algeria's resolution gained support from 13 out of the 15 members around the iconic horseshoe table, while the United Kingdom abstained from voting. The US has proposed its own draft resolution that would condemn Hamas but also support a temporary ceasefire based on the formula that all hostages are released. Speaking after the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said her delegation is willing to engage constructively with Council members on her delegation's draft resolution. News reports suggest negotiations on the alternative text will be far from easy, with both Russia and China voicing strong opposition to the third use of a veto by the US on ceasefire resolutions. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Washington continues to provide Israel with 'a license to kill,' adding that 'Full responsibility for the consequences falls on Washington.' Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun said it is totally untenable of the US to argue that the draft jeopardizes ongoing talks. Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama said, 'Algeria will return to knock on the doors of the Security Council once again to put an end to the bloodshed'. 'We will not stop until this Council shoulders its responsibility in full and imposes an immediate ceasefire. We will never tire, and we will never stop.' The Council has held more than a dozen meetings on the war in Gaza, including an open debate in late January, with more than 70 UN Member States voicing serious concerns about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. Many called on the Security Council to 'work harder' to end the war, which began in October when Israeli forces invaded the Palestinian enclave in response to Hamas' attacks in Israel that left 1,200 dead and 240 taken hostage. To date, almost 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's retaliation. Israeli is unleashing its military operation in Rafah, where more than a million displaced Gazans are sheltering with nowhere else to run to. 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 Press Release Nokia to Revolutionize Mobile Networks with Cloud RAN and AI Powered by NVIDIA New collaboration will help position AI as transformative to mobile networks Collaboration to focus on Cloud RAN solutions that leverage advanced NVIDIA Grace CPUs and NVIDIA GPUs, Nokia's In-Line accelerator technology and Cloud RAN software Enhances Nokia's anyRAN approach that improves choice and flexibility in Cloud RAN solutions 21st February 2024 Espoo, Finland - Nokia today announced that it is collaborating with NVIDIA to revolutionize the future of AI-ready radio access network (RAN) solutions. The collaboration, which further enhances Nokia's anyRAN approach, aims to position AI as fundamental to transforming the future of the telecommunications network business. As AI is poised to change the landscape of telecommunications infrastructure and services within the mobile operator sector, this collaboration aims to deliver incremental value to end users through the introduction of innovative telco AI services. Nokia will collaborate with NVIDIA on Cloud RAN solutions that leverage the NVIDIA Grace CPU Superchip for Layer 2+ processing, Nokia's high-performance, energy-efficient In-Line Layer 1 (L1) accelerator technology, and Cloud RAN software. Additionally, Nokia will use NVIDIA GPUs for AI applications and vRAN acceleration, paving the way for AI-RAN. The NVIDIA Grace CPU is based on the latest and most advanced Arm Neoverse V2 CPU reference architecture. It delivers incredible performance, power efficiency, and high-bandwidth connectivity covering all data center requirements. Nokia's customers will benefit from diversity and choice in selecting CPUs for Cloud RAN networks. The announcement is a continuation of Nokia's flexible anyRAN approach that supports any purpose-built, hybrid or Cloud RAN environment. It's designed to help customers get their Cloud RAN services up and running much faster, removing complexity and ensuring openness and flexibility. Nokia's high-performance, energy-efficient In-Line acceleration architecture seamlessly integrates with all leading cloud or server infrastructures. Nokia has successfully performed end-to-end 5G data calls (Layer 3 calls) in multi-vendor setups with several partners. Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: "This is an important collaboration with NVIDIA that will explore how artificial intelligence can play a transformative role in the future of our industry. It is a further example of our anyRAN approach that is helping to make Cloud RAN a commercial reality. The strength of our industry collaborations means we can drive efficiency, innovation, openness, and scale by delivering competitive advantage to operators and enterprises." Ronnie Vasishta, Senior Vice President of Telecom at NVIDIA, said: "Bringing the power of NVIDIA's advanced computing to Nokia's platform will deliver more performant and energy-efficient Cloud RAN solutions. Plus, as AI creates unprecedented transformational opportunities across industries, our collaboration with Nokia deepens AI-enabled innovation in radio access networks for improved operational efficiency in telecommunications." Resources Webpage: Nokia AirScale Cloud RAN Webpage: Nokia anyRAN Webpage: Nokia AirScale Baseband Press release: Nokia launches anyRAN to drive CloudRAN partnerships enabling flexibility for mobile network operators and enterprises Press release: Nokia demonstrates Cloud RAN flexibility with Arm and HPE Press release: Nokia and Elisa successfully complete Europe's first Cloud RAN trial powered by In-Line acceleration About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today - and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Faraday Copper Corp. (" Faraday " or the " Company ") (TSX:FDY)(OTCQX:CPPKF) is pleased to announce the results from four drill holes of its Phase III program at the Copper Creek Project, located in Arizona, U.S. ("Copper Creek"). Two of the holes targeted the American Eagle underground zone, one hole tested near-surface mineralization potential at the Bald area and one hole was drilled between the Copper Prince - Copper Giant breccia complex and Mammoth. Paul Harbidge, President and CEO commented, "The drill results of two holes into the American Eagle area confirm the existence of zones in the underground domain with higher grades than predicted from the resource model, supporting the Company's thesis that the high-grade zones of American Eagle are open for expansion. Together with our district-scale exploration activities, these results confirm the significant exploration upside associated with the project." Highlights Intersected 380.60 metres ("m") at 0.62% copper and 1.02 g/t silver from 721.04 m, including 163.11 m at 0.85% copper and 1.13 g/t silver from 841.33 m in drill hole FCD-23-039 at American Eagle. 50 m of this 380.60 m intercept is located below and outside the underground shape used to constrain the Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE"). and 1.02 g/t silver from 721.04 m, and 1.13 g/t silver from 841.33 m in drill hole FCD-23-039 at American Eagle. Intersected 424.71 m at 0.40% copper and 0.81 g/t silver from 659.12 m, including 36.30 m at 0.83% copper and 1.69 g/t silver from 944.89 m in drill hole FCD-23-040 at American Eagle. The high-grade portion is thought to represent the root zone of the American Eagle breccia complex, suggesting potential grade continuity from surface to approximately 800 m depth. This vertical extension remains a high priority target. and 0.81 g/t silver from 659.12 m, and 1.69 g/t silver from 944.89 m in drill hole FCD-23-040 at American Eagle. These drill holes are angled and drilled towards the north-northwest into an area historically drilled by widely spaced vertical drill holes. The intercepts confirm grade continuity at depth. (For true width information see Table 1.) Drill hole FCD-23-039 was collared in the Bald area and drilled towards the north-northwest (Figures 1 and 2). The copper mineralization occurs as chalcopyrite in early halo veins and as disseminations. Bornite increases with depth most notably below approximately 840 m downhole. The higher grades below 840 m are hosted in porphyry intruding granodiorite. Molybdenite veins are observed below 980 m downhole. Mineralization is interpreted to have been emplaced near the core of a porphyry mineralized centre. This drill hole also intercepted approximately 20 m of breccia-hosted mineralization from 55.07 m, which was above the mineral resource cut-off grade (reported in the Technical Report, as defined herein), highlighting the potential to identify additional near-surface mineralization in the Bald area (Figure 2). Drill hole FCD-23-040 was collared approximately 135 m to the west from drill hole FCD-23-039 and was drilled to the west-northwest (Figures 1 and 3). The mineralization is similar to hole FCD-23-039 but includes 36.30 m of chalcopyrite-rich mineralization with local presence of anhydrite in breccia and veins crosscutting potassic altered granodiorite. This zone also contains molybdenite and is interpreted to correspond to a magmatic cupola zone at the root of the American Eagle breccia. This breccia is exposed at surface and, together with this drill hole intercept, demonstrates potential vertical continuity of mineralization over approximately 800 m. Drill hole FCD-23-038 was collared at the same location as FCD-23-039 but drilled at a shallower angle (Figures 1 and 2). It targeted potential near-surface breccia-hosted mineralization. The hole intercepted breccia with pyrite and minor chalcopyrite within the first 55 m from surface, returning copper values below cut-off grade. Vein and localized breccia hosted pyrite-chalcopyrite mineralization was intercepted near the end of the hole. Follow-up exploration is planned to target higher grades near surface. Drill hole FCD-23-044 was collared between the Copper Prince and Mammoth open pit resource domains in an area without historical drilling (Figure 1). The entire hole is in granodiorite with short igneous cemented breccia intervals. It intersected a zone of densely spaced pyrite-dominant veins from approximately 85 m to 102 m, which did not include significant copper intercepts. The hole was planned to also provide geotechnical information, which will be considered in future studies. Figure 1: Plan View Showing Drill Hole Locations Note: The the underground shapes are based on constraints used in the MRE as presented in the report titled "Copper Creek Project NI 43-101 Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment" with an effective date of May 3, 2023 (the " Technical Report") available on the Company's website at www.faradaycopper.com and on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca . Figure 2: Cross Section Showing Drill Holes FCD-23-038 and FCD-23-039 Note: The underground footprint is based on constraints used in the MRE as reported in the Technical Report. Figure 3: Cross Section Showing Drill Hole FCD-23-040 Note: The underground footprint is based on constraints used in the MRE as reported in the Technical Report. Table 1: Selected Drill Results from Copper Creek Drill Hole ID From To Length True Width Cu Au Ag Mo (m) (m) (m) (m) (%) (g/t) (g/t) (%) FCD-23-039 55.07 74.39 19.32 10 0.18 N/A 0.42 0.0018 and 407.95 506.50 98.55 98 0.17 N/A 0.71 0.0003 and 524.00 531.30 7.20 7 0.67 N/A 1.91 0.0043 and 721.04 1101.64 380.60 380 0.62 N/A 1.02 0.0026 Including 841.33 1004.44 163.11 163 0.85 N/A 1.13 0.0029 FCD-23-040 659.12 1083.83 424.71 424 0.40 0.02 0.81 0.0054 including 944.89 1079.89 135.00 135 0.56 0.02 1.13 0.0092 and including 944.89 981.19 36.30 36 0.83 0.03 1.69 0.0128 FCD-23-038 316.63 328.58 11.95 11 0.20 N/A 0.47 0.0006 FCD-23-044 No significant intercepts Notes: All intercepts are reported as downhole drill widths. Mineralization includes bulk porphyry-style zones and breccia mineralization. Drilled widths are interpreted to be very close to true widths in most cases. "N/A": not analyzed Table 2: Collar Locations from the Drill Holes Reported Herein Drill Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Target Depth Depth (m) () () (ft) (m) FCD-23-039 549223 3622926 1356 338 71.5 American Eagle 3,370.5 1,105.81 FCD-23-040 549088 3622920 1372 329 67.0 American Eagle 3,420.7 1,122.27 FCD-23-038 549223 3622926 1356 338 45.0 Bald 1,074.4 352.50 FCD-23-044 548252 3624335 1278 335 50.0 Copper Prince 803.8 263.71 Note: Coordinates are given as World Geodetic System 84, Universal Transverse Mercator Zone 12 north (WGS84, UTM12N). Next Steps Phase III drilling continues and is focused on three objectives: Reconnaissance drilling on new targets; Expanding the MRE; and Better delineating high-grade mineralized zones. As part of the Phase III program, 14 drill holes have been completed and six holes have been released to date. Of the remaining holes, six were drilled at Area 51 and two in the Copper Prince area. The assay results will be released as they are received, analyzed and confirmed by the Company. Sampling Methodology, Chain of Custody, Quality Control and Quality Assurance All sampling was conducted under the supervision of the Company's geologists and the chain of custody from Copper Creek to the independent sample preparation facility, ALS Laboratories in Tucson, AZ, was continuously monitored. The samples were taken as core, over 2 m core length. Samples were crushed, pulverized and sample pulps were analyzed using industry standard analytical methods including a 4-Acid ICP-MS multielement package and an ICP-AES method for high-grade copper samples. Gold was analyzed on a 30 g aliquot by fire assay with an ICP-AES finish. A certified reference sample was inserted every 20 th sample. Coarse blanks were inserted every 20 th sample. Approximately 5% of the core samples were cut into core and submitted as field duplicates. On top of internal QA-QC protocol, additional blanks, reference materials and duplicates were inserted by the analytical laboratory according to their procedure. Data verification of the analytical results included a statistical analysis of the standards and blanks that must pass certain parameters for acceptance to ensure accurate and verifiable results. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Faraday's VP Exploration, Dr. Thomas Bissig, P. Geo., who is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). About Faraday Copper Faraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing its flagship copper project in Arizona, U.S. The Copper Creek Project is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with open pit and bulk underground mining potential. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY". For additional information please contact: Stacey Pavlova, CFA Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications Faraday Copper Corp. E-mail: info@faradaycopper.com Website: www.faradaycopper.com To receive news releases by e-mail, please register using the Faraday website at www.faradaycopper.com . Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements Some of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the exploration, open pit and underground potential of the Copper Creek property. Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses; lower than expected grades and quantities of mineral resources; receipt of regulatory approval; receipt of shareholder approval; mining rates and recovery rates; significant capital requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for commodities; fluctuations in rates of exchange; taxation; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which Faraday does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, competition; loss of key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous peoples and other groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the Copper Creek property; and uncertainties with respect to any future acquisitions by Faraday. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks as well as "Risk Factors" included in Faraday's disclosure documents filed on and available at www.sedarplus.ca . This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. This press release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an offering memorandum, an advertisement or a public offering of securities in Faraday in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in the United States has reviewed or in any way passed upon this press release, and any representation to the contrary is an offence. SOURCE: Faraday Copper Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com EQS-News: Douglas GmbH / Key word(s): Conference Conference call on the results for the 1st quarter 2023/24 (ending 31 December 2023) on 22 February 2024 21.02.2024 / 12:36 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. CONFERENCE CALL INVITATION Conference call on the results for the 1stquarter 2023/24 (ending 31 December 2023) on 22 February 2024 Dusseldorf, 21 February 2024. Douglas, Europe's leading omnichannel beauty destination, invites you to an analyst update call on the first quarter 2023/24 on 22 February 2024. The conference call on the results will be held at 11:00 a.m. CEST on 22 February 2024. To participate in the conference call, please make use of one of the following options: To participate in the audio conference, please use this link to register for the conference call. Please use this webcast link to follow the presentation when dialled in. to register for the conference call. You can follow the webcast with audio via this link . ABOUT DOUGLAS: DOUGLAS is the number one omnichannel premium beauty destination in Europe. The company is inspiring customers to live their own kind of beauty by offering a unique assortment online and in around 1,850 stores. With unparalleled size and access to customers, DOUGLAS is the partner of choice for brands and offers a selected range of selective and exclusive brands as well as own corporate brands. The assortment includes fragrances, make-up, skin care, hair care, accessories as well as beauty services. Strengthening its successful omnichannel positioning while consistently developing superior customer experience is at the heart of the company's strategy "Let it Bloom - DOUGLAS 2026". The winning business model is underpinned by DOUGLAS' omnichannel proposition, leading brands, and data capabilities. In the fiscal year 2022/23, DOUGLAS generated sales of 4.1 billion euros and employed around 18,000 people across Europe. More information is available at https://douglas.group/en/investors . 21.02.2024 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 Including in-pit high-grade zones of 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq & 9.5m @ 2.9g/t AuEq LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Meridian Mining UK. S (TSX:MNO), (Frankfurt/Tradegate:2MM) (OTCQB:MRRDF) ("Meridian" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study ("PFS") drill program continues to produce robust results at its Cabacal Au-Cu-Ag deposit ("the Project"). Multiple wide zones with internal high-grade cores, such as CD-400's 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq & CD-399's 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq including 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq1 ("Figure 1"). The ongoing PFS drill program continues with the aim to convert in-pit resources to higher classifications and increase confidence in the flagship Cabacal project. The Company is also reporting the results of the geotechnical studies that have potential to increase the Cabacal's pit wall angles that would deliver a meaningful reduction in the strip ratio. The northwestern limit of Cabacal deposit remains open with a new cupriferous gossan outcrop defined ("Figure 1"). Further results from Cabacal and Santa Helena are pending. Highlights Reported Today Strong results of gold-copper-silver mineralization including CD-400's 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq reported by Meridian Mining; Meridian drills zones of gold and copper at Cabacal grading up to 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq; CD-399: 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq from 125.5m; including 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq from 126.1m; CD-400: 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq from 48.0m; including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq from 62.5m; CD-404: 20.4m @ 1.1 g/t AuEq from 101.2m; 3.8m @ 3.6 g/t AuEq from 113.5m; Cabacal's current geotechnical studies suggest optionality to steepen pit walls to 54; High likelihood that Cabacal's in-pit strip ratio may decrease below PEA's 2.1:1; and Northwestern limit of Cabacal deposit remains open with new cupriferous gossan outcrop. Mr. Gilbert Clark, CEO, comments: "These broad zones of open pitable mineralization, are the economic foundations of the industry leading Cabacal economics, demonstrated in our 2023 PEA. Cabacal's forward momentum continues with our geotechnical studies indicating good potential for steepening the pit walls, (which may lower the strip ratio, and deliver a reciprocal economic benefit in the up-coming PFS). Finding a gossan outcropping at Cabacal's northwestern limit indicates that even after 2km of resource delineation success, near-mine extensions remain to be tested. When I look at the greater picture, I see tremendous potential for Cabacal to emerge as another world-class Latin American VMS camp. 1 See below Technical Notes for AuEq commodity prices, recoveries and equations Cabacal Project Development And Resource Definition Program The Cabacal resource development program continues, with three rigs currently deployed. Results recently received included infill holes drilled from the Cabacal Northwest Extension ('CNWE'), and historical Cabacal mine area. These results form part of the PFS process that is a crucial phase in the development and growth of the project. Drill results from the CNWE were returned from the 25m infill program. Results include: CD-395: 10.9m @ 1.3 g/t AuEq (0.1 g/t Au, 0.8% Cu & 1.4 g/t Ag) from 43.7m; Including: 4.1m @ 2.8 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 1.8% Cu & 2.9 g/t Ag) from 50.0m; CD-396: 15.6m @ 0.8 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 0.8 g/t Ag) from 44.4m; Including: 8.7m @ 2.0 g/t AuEq (0.9 g/t Au, 0.8% Cu & 2.6 g/t Ag) from 95.0m; 10.1m @ 1.3 g/t AuEq (0.3 g/t Au, 0.7% Cu & 1.1 g/t Ag) from 118.3m; CD-399: 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq (0.3 g/t Au, 1.0% Cu & 1.6 g/t Ag) from 125.5m; Including: 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq (0.6 g/t Au, 2.4% Cu & 3.2 g/t Ag) from 126.1m; CD-404: 20.4m @ 1.1 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.5% Cu & 0.8 g/t Ag); including 101.2m; Including: 3.8m @ 3.6 g/t AuEq (1.3 g/t Au, 1.7% Cu & 2.2 g/t Ag) from 113.5m; and CD-413: 8.4m @ 1.5 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 1.8 g/t Ag) from 73.7m. The results form part of broader zones of mineralization (Table 1) and continue to improve modelling of grade continuity. Results show robust levels of copper mineralization at the lower contact which will improve modelling of grade continuity. Copper-stained gossaniferous exposure was observed at the limits of the CNWE, within a band of magnetite banded iron formation. The recognition of this stratigraphic unit is of great interest, as a potential favourable host unit to the gold overprint event. Some of Brazil's best gold deposits are hosted by banded iron units (Rio das Velhas greenstone belt, "Quadrilatero Ferrifero"). Angled holes in the mine area returned: CD-393 (SCZ): 17.8m @ 1.0 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.5% Cu & 1.0 g/t Ag) from 70.3m; Including: 3.3m @ 4.2 g/t AuEq (1.5 g/t Au, 1.9% Cu & 3.5 g/t Ag) from 70.7m; CD-400 (CCZ): 25.8m @ 1.4g/t AuEq (0.9g/t Au, 0.4% Cu, 2.2 g/t Ag) from 48.0m; Including: 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq (1.7 g/t Au, 0.9% Cu, 5.5 g/t Ag) from 62.5m; CD-414 (SCZ): 4.1m @ 3.3 g/t AuEq (1.7 g/t Au, 1.1% Cu & 4.7 g/t Ag) from 42.1m; and 21.9m @ 0.9 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 1.9 g/t Ag) from 53.1m; and CD-427 (SCZ): 22.6m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.7% Cu & 3.4 g/t Ag) from 59.5m; Including: 8.8m @ 2.8 g/t AuEq (0.6 g/t Au, 1.5% Cu & 7.5 g/t Ag) from 64.4m. The drilling in the mine area provides for further validation of the mine workings and the extensive open pitable mineralization left in the higher-grade pillars. In the mine area, as part of the PFS validation program, the Company is also making additional efforts to locate a number of missing historical holes, particularly those reported and mapped in the Southern Copper Zone. These holes are not in Meridian's modern drill hole data base but host multiple assays of high-grade >5.5g/t Au (including visible gold), and high-grade copper >3.5% Cu. A final program may be undertaken to target these copper-gold zones as they represent potential zones where an under-call of the resource Cabacal may exist. The forward program will particularly focus infilling areas of where resources remain inferred to unclassified. The Company has successfully executed a number of holes at low angles following adaptations to the small footprint rig, where topographic access has been more restricted. Figure 1: Highlights from recent drilling and field mapping at the Cabacal deposit Cabacal Pit Geotechnical Study As part of the data generation requirements for its pre-feasibility study of the Cabacal project, Meridian has commissioned the independent geotechnical consultancy, Fundacao Luiz Englert, to undertake a geotechnical study of the Cabacal pit in order to deliver enhanced confidence to the assumptions that were used in the Cabacal preliminary economic study completed in March 2023. Six dedicated geotechnical holes were drilled as part of the 2023 project development campaign, and fifty-nine specific resource development holes have been geotechnically logged ("Figure 2") using a template recommended by the Company's Brazilian consultancy, with logging ongoing in parallel with the resource development program. Figure 2: Top: perspective view of project development drilling at Cabacal - hydrogeological holes in blue; holes with geotechnical logging in green, holes with geotechnical sampling in red, Bottom: in relation to the PEA pit shell. Conservative pit wall angles of 48 degrees were assumed for the PEA in the absence of specific geotechnical data. Mining consultants GE21 have reviewed the outcomes of the geotechnical studies and assessments indicate optionality to increase the global hanging wall in the Cabacal pit up to 54 degrees (a 12.5% steepening of the pit wall). New data will be reviewed and fed into the Cabacal PFS. A reduction in the volume of waste rock offers scope to improve the stripping ratio for the project. Mining lower volumes of waste rock would benefit the operating costs for the project as well as result in smaller areas required for the storage of waste rock. Final assumptions will be reviewed with the advancement of the drilling program in the lead up to the pre-feasibility. About Meridian Meridian Mining UK S is focused on: The development and exploration of the advanced stage Cabacal VMS gold-copper project; Regional scale exploration of the Cabacal VMS belt; and Exploration in the Jauru & Araputanga Greenstone belts (the above all located in the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil). Cabacal is a gold-copper-silver rich VMS deposit with the potential to be a standalone mine within the 50km VMS belt. Cabacal's base and precious metal-rich mineralization is hosted by volcanogenic type, massive, semi-massive, stringer, and disseminated sulphides within deformed metavolcanic-sedimentary rocks. A later-stage gold overprint event has emplaced high-grade gold mineralization. The Preliminary Economic Assessment technical report (the "PEA Technical Report") dated March 30, 2023, entitled: "Cabacal Gold-Copper Project NI 43-101 Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment, Mato Grosso, Brazil" outlines a base case after-tax NPV5 of USD 573 million and 58.4% IRR from a pre-production capital cost of USD 180 million, leading to capital repayment in 10.6 months (assuming metals price scenario of USD 1,650 per ounces of gold, USD 3.59 per pound of copper, and USD 21.35 per ounce of silver). Cabacal has a low All-in-Sustaining-Cost of USD 671 per ounce gold equivalent for the first five years, driven by high metallurgical recovery, a low life-of-mine strip ratio of 2.1:1, and the low operating cost environment of Brazil (see press release dated March 6, 2023). The Cabacal Mineral Resource estimate consists of Indicated resources of 52.9 million tonnes at 0.6g/t gold, 0.3% copper and 1.4g/t silver and Inferred resources of 10.3 million tonnes at 0.7g/t gold, 0.2% copper & 1.1g/t silver (at a 0.3 g/t gold equivalent cut-off grade), including a higher-grade near-surface zone supporting a starter pit. Readers are encouraged to read the PEA Technical Report in its entirety. The PEA Technical Report may be found on the Company's website at www.meridianmining.co and under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The qualified persons for the PEA Technical Report are: Robert Raponi (P. Eng), Principal Metallurgist with Ausenco Engineering), Scott Elfen (P. E.), Global Lead Geotechnical and Civil Services with Ausenco Engineering), Simon Tear (PGeo, EurGeol), Principal Geological Consultant of H&SC, Marcelo Batelochi, (MAusIMM, CP Geo), Geological Consultant of MB Geologia Ltda, Joseph Keane (Mineral Processing Engineer; P.E), of SGS, and Guilherme Gomides Ferreira (Mine Engineer MAIG) of GE21 Consultoria Mineral. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Meridian Mining UK S Mr. Gilbert Clark - CEO and Director Meridian Mining UK S Email: info@meridianmining.co Ph: +1 778 715-6410 (PST) Stay up to date by subscribing for news alerts here: https://meridianmining.co/contact/ Follow Meridian on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeridianMining Further information can be found at: www.meridianmining.co Technical Notes Samples have been analysed at SGS laboratory in Belo Horizonte. Samples are dried, crushed with 75% passing <3 mm, split to give a mass of 250-300g, pulverized with 95% passing 150#. Gold analyses are conducted by FAA505 (fire assay of a 50g charge), and base metal analysis by methods ICP40B and ICP40B_S (four acid digest with ICP-OES finish). Visible gold intervals are sampled by metallic screen fire assay method MET150-FAASCR. Samples are held in the Company's secure facilities until dispatched and delivered by staff and commercial couriers to the laboratory. Pulps and coarse rejects are retained and returned to the Company for storage. The Company submits a range of quality control samples, including blanks and gold and polymetallic standards supplied by Rocklabs, ITAK and OREAS, supplementing laboratory quality control procedures. Approximately 5% of archived samples are sent for umpire laboratory analysis, including any lots exhibiting QAQC outliers after discussion with the laboratory. In BP Minerals sampling, gold was analysed historically by fire assay and base metals by three acid digest and ICP finish at the Nomos laboratory in Rio de Janeiro. Silver was analysed by aqua regia digest with an atomic absorption finish. True width is considered to be 80-90% of intersection width. Assay figures and intervals are rounded to 1 decimal place. Gold equivalents for Cabacal are calculated as: AuEq(g/t) = (Au(g/t) * %Recovery) + (1.492*(Cu% * %Recovery)) + (0.013*(Ag(g/t) * %Recovery)), where: Au_recovery_ppm = 5.4368ln(Au_Grade_ppm)+88.856 Cu_recovery_pct = 2.0006ln(Cu_Grade_pct)+94.686 Ag_recovery_ppm = 13.342ln(Ag_Grade_ppm)+71.037 Recoveries based on 2022 metallurgical testwork on core submitted to SGS Lakefield Qualified Person Mr. Erich Marques, B.Sc., MAIG, Chief Geologist of Meridian Mining and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed, and verified the technical information in this news release. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information or forward-looking statements for the purposes of applicable securities laws. These statements address future events and conditions and so involve inherent risks and uncertainties, as disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Meridian's most recent Annual Information Form filed on www.sedarplus.ca. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by Meridian, in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, Meridian can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Meridian disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or results or otherwise. Table 1: Assays reported in this press release. Hole-id Dip Azi EOH (m) Zone Int (m) AuEq (g/t) CuEq (%) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) From (m) CD-427 -49 062 97.3 SCZ 10.0 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.5 20.0 5.1 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 48.9 22.6 1.4 0.9 0.4 0.7 3.4 59.5 Including 8.8 2.8 1.9 0.6 1.5 7.5 64.4 Including 1.7 11.6 7.8 2.3 6.1 32.3 66.4 CD-419 -58 039 110.2 SCZ 9.9 0.3 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.5 18.3 3.2 1.5 1.0 0.1 1.0 1.7 44.0 4.8 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.5 52.7 15.1 0.7 0.5 0.2 0.4 1.2 79.1 CD-417 -50 062 51.2 CWNE 4.7 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.4 24.7 3.7 0.8 0.5 0.4 0.3 3.9 32.9 CD-415 -50 061 49.7 CWNE 1.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.0 4.7 0.9 0.8 0.6 0.3 0.4 8.1 30.6 CD-414 -64 043 88.7 SCZ 3.6 0.5 0.3 0.0 0.4 0.5 18.3 6.2 0.4 0.3 0.0 0.3 0.5 28.9 4.1 3.3 2.2 1.7 1.1 4.7 42.1 Including 1.3 7.8 5.3 4.8 2.1 10.6 44.9 21.9 0.9 0.6 0.4 0.4 1.9 53.1 CD-413 -50 060 96.4 CWNE 8.2 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.6 41.0 8.4 1.5 1.0 0.2 0.9 1.8 73.7 Including 1.1 6.6 4.4 1.1 3.8 5.1 74.7 CD-412 -46 060 59.7 CWNE 2.0 0.5 0.4 0.1 0.3 5.0 21.0 CD-410 -50 062 49.7 CWNE 1.7 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.3 2.6 21.5 CD-408 -49 058 117.4 CWNE 13.1 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.3 66.6 Including 1.7 2.3 1.5 0.5 1.3 0.5 75.9 14.1 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.4 87.5 Including 2.2 1.6 1.1 0.3 0.9 1.1 95.6 CD-406 -50 060 41.5 CWNE NSI Hole-id Dip Azi EOH (m) Zone Int (m) AuEq (g/t) CuEq (%) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) From (m) CD-404 -50 059 139.4 CWNE 1.3 1.6 1.1 1.5 0.1 0.2 24.4 9.3 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.7 43.1 30.5 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.5 57.0 Including 1.6 3.5 2.4 0.3 2.2 3.3 64.7 4.1 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 92.7 20.4 1.1 0.7 0.4 0.5 0.8 101.2 Including 3.8 3.6 2.4 1.3 1.7 2.2 113.5 CD-400 -59 042 106.9 CCZ 4.4 0.3 0.2 0.0 0.2 1.0 7.4 14.4 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.9 23.2 25.8 1.4 0.9 0.9 0.4 2.2 48.0 Including 9.5 2.9 1.9 1.7 0.9 5.5 62.5 6.3 0.9 0.6 0.2 0.4 2.7 87.4 CD-399 -50 059 153.6 CWNE 22.3 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 29.7 15.3 1.7 1.1 0.3 1.0 1.6 125.5 Including 5.1 4.0 2.7 0.6 2.4 3.2 126.1 CD-398 -49 062 61.4 CWNE 12.3 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 4.4 26.7 CD-397 -60 043 136.4 SCZ 5.9 0.4 0.3 0.0 0.3 1.1 33.4 33.7 0.6 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.6 74.1 Including 1.9 2.1 1.4 1.9 0.2 0.5 86.1 11.5 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.6 113.5 CD-396 -50 060 136.8 CWNE 2.7 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.3 19.3 7.6 0.7 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.9 32.4 15.6 0.8 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.8 44.4 Including 3.0 1.8 1.2 0.2 1.1 1.9 52.6 10.5 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 68.6 3.2 1.1 0.7 0.5 0.5 1.7 86.6 8.7 2.0 1.4 0.9 0.8 2.6 95.0 Including 1.6 7.1 4.8 3.1 2.8 8.6 98.1 10.1 1.3 0.9 0.3 0.7 1.1 118.3 Including 1.7 4.1 2.8 0.8 2.3 3.1 121.4 Hole-id Dip Azi EOH (m) Zone Int (m) AuEq (g/t) CuEq (%) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) From (m) CD-395 -50 061 131.7 CWNE 2.6 1.2 0.8 0.5 0.6 1.5 36.2 10.9 1.3 0.9 0.1 0.8 1.4 43.7 Including 4.1 2.8 1.9 0.2 1.8 2.9 50.0 26.8 0.4 0.3 0.0 0.3 0.3 59.0 9.8 0.7 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.5 92.8 4.8 1.4 0.9 0.3 0.8 1.5 111.0 CD-393 -63 044 112.2 SCZ 9.4 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.4 13.6 0.6 8.5 5.7 8.5 0.0 0.0 60.8 17.8 1.0 0.7 0.4 0.5 1.0 70.3 Including 3.3 4.2 2.8 1.5 1.9 3.5 70.7 3.3 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.4 95.8 CD-379 -49 062 70.2 CWNE 17.8 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.2 0.6 34.0 Including 1.8 5.4 3.6 3.6 1.3 3.8 50.0 SOURCE: Meridian Mining UK S View the original press release on accesswire.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Carolina Rush Corporation (TSXV: RUSH) (OTCQB: PUCCF) ("Carolina Rush", "Rush" or the "Company") has negotiated a major modification to its Option Agreement for the acquisition of the Brewer Mine Property in South Carolina. Rush has executed the Fifth Amendment to the Brewer Option Agreement with the Brewer Gold Receiver ("Receiver"), which eliminates any option payments during exploration and until closing a potential purchase. Highlights: No option payments for remainder of Option Period (through December 31, 2030) Purchase price formula streamlined to be 60% of government past costs through 2024 plus pro-rated annual government costs from 2025 until closing, should Rush exercise its option Financial assurance at closing can be satisfied through one of five non-cash methods Carolina Rush President and CEO Layton Croft commented: "We extend our sincere appreciation to the Receiver, South Carolina's Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their steadfast support of Carolina Rush. Their continued endorsement reaffirms their belief in our capacity to explore the Brewer Gold-Copper Project responsibly and successfully. With the amended Option Agreement providing almost 7 years without option payment requirements, we can deploy maximum available capital into the ground for ongoing exploration." Court-appointed Receiver Kelly Lowry stated: "It is my responsibility to oversee the Brewer property, including Carolina Rush's operations, and to coordinate with SC DHEC and EPA, the two regulatory agencies currently responsible for remediation of the site. Recognizing that successful and responsible minerals exploration demands ample time, Rush's diligence, excellent work and professionalism to date justifies the amendment of the Option Agreement. The adjustment defers previously stipulated annual option payments, originally slated to commence in 2025, to the closing of Brewer's sale, contingent on Rush's decision to exercise its option. We all share a common goal of success at Brewer, provided that Rush maintains its current performance standards in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and agreements." The Brewer site covers 397 hectares (981 acres) of private land located 115 kilometers (72 miles) southeast of Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Chesterfield County, South Carolina. The property enjoys easy access, streamlined permitting, excellent infrastructure, and a robust regional mining supplier and labor pool. Brewer is located 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the producing, open pit and underground Haile Gold Mine. Haile provides a positive example of South Carolina's pro-mining commitment, especially to the revitalization of historic mines into modern, environmentally responsible operations. Acquisition of Brewer comes without any underlying royalties and with all existing infrastructure, facilities and equipment from previous mining operations. This includes high voltage power lines connected to a nearby transformer sub-station, extensive graded roads, site-wide water distribution infrastructure and treatment systems, an abundant industrial water supply for potential future mining operations, dozens of groundwater monitoring wells, heavy machinery and vehicles, equipped office and maintenance facilities, and more than 283 hectares (700 acres) of quality timber reserves. Brewer Option Agreement If Rush exercises its option to purchase Brewer, the price will be determined by two components: 1) 60% of past costs incurred by SC DHEC and EPA at Brewer between 2005-2024; and 2) the pro-rated sum of deferred annual payments incurred by the Company from 2025 through 2030. Also, if Rush exercises its option to purchase Brewer, it will be required to post financial assurance at closing, which, according to EPA guidelines, can be satisfied through one of the following: Trust Funds; Letters of Credit; Surety Bonds; Insurance Policies; Corporate Financial Tests; or Corporate Guarantees (https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/financial-assurance-superfund-settlements-and-orders). The amended Brewer Option Agreement also stipulates that Rush will abandon all exploration boreholes in accordance with SC DHEC regulations. To date the Company has capped but not yet abandoned 19 holes, in order to be able to conduct downhole geophysical surveys and/or extend holes later in the program. The Option Agreement requires Rush to deposit US$150,000 in a Receiver-controlled escrow account within 120 days of the Fifth Amendment's effective date (February 20, 2024). The Company will report to the Receiver and SC DHEC on a quarterly basis the updated status of borehole abandonment, after which the funds in escrow will be adjusted accordingly. For more details about the Brewer Option Agreement and the history of Brewer, see https://thecarolinarush.com/brewer-gold-copper-project/. History of Brewer Gold was first discovered at Brewer in the 1820s, as part of North America's first gold rush. About 200,000 ounces of gold has been produced at Brewer historically. From 1987-1995, Brewer produced 178,000 ounces of oxide gold from two open pits that extended to 50-metre depths. Operated by the U.K.-owned Brewer Gold Company ("BGC"), more than 12 million tons of ore and waste rock were mined from two open pits. After ceasing mining operations, BGC's reclamation efforts from 1995-1999, guided by SC DHEC, fell short of achieving a fully reclaimed site. BGC abandoned the site in 1999, leaving SC DHEC and the EPA to manage the site, finalize reclamation, and treat acid-mine drainage until today. In 2005, the Brewer site was designated a US EPA Superfund site as per the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensations and Liability Act ("CERCLA") due to water quality threats. BGC's abandonment of the property left SC DHEC and EPA with no options for addressing water quality threats from the site other than using the CERCLA response actions funded by EPA and SC DHEC. Both entities retained access to the property for purposes of constructing, operating, and maintaining the wastewater treatment plant and otherwise carrying out the CERCLA remedy. With the interim wastewater treatment addressing potential environmental risks, in 2019, SC DHEC, through a South Carolina court, appointed the Brewer Gold Receiver (a legal construct similar to a trustee) to facilitate the leasing, sale or other use or disposition of the abandoned property, including potential renewal of mineral exploration and mining development. In January 2020, Carolina Rush (then known as Pancontinental Resources) emerged as the chosen entity, through a competitive process, to explore and purchase the former Brewer Gold Mine Property (see Company news releases dated January 15, 2020, March 2, 2020, April 22, 2020, March 23, 2022, and July 12, 2022). Qualified Person The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements as set out in NI 43-101 and reviewed and approved by Patrick Quigley, MSc, CPG-12116, a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. About Carolina Rush Carolina Rush Corporation (TSXV: RUSH) (OTCQB: PUCCF) is exploring the Carolina Terrane in the southeastern USA. Its flagship Brewer Gold-Copper Project is located at the past-producing, 397-hectare Brewer Gold Mine property in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, 17 kilometers along trend from the producing Haile Gold Mine. In January 2023, the Company signed exclusive mineral exploration lease and purchase option agreements for both the 246.6-hectare New Sawyer Gold Mine Property and the 54.6-hectare Sawyer Gold Mine Property, both located on the Sawyer Gold Trend and in Randolph County, North Carolina. For further information, please contact: Layton Croft, President and CEO or Jeanny So, Corporate Communications Manager E: info@thecarolinarush.com T: +1.647.202.0994 For additional information please visit our new website at http://www.TheCarolinaRush.com/ and our X feed: https://twitter.com/TheCarolinaRush. 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. This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including that all necessary governmental and regulatory approvals will be received as and when expected. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198653 SOURCE: Carolina Rush Corporation Ferguson plc (NYSE: FERG, LSE: FERG) (the "Company") announces today that it purchased a total of 67,037 of its ordinary shares in the period from February 12, 2024, up to and including February 16, 2024, in connection with its $3.0 billion share repurchase program. Aggregated information about the purchases carried out during this period Trading Day Aggregate Daily Volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average purchase price of the shares (USD) Trading Venue February 12, 2024 400 197.8600 ARCX February 12, 2024 230 198.0570 XNAS February 12, 2024 14,057 197.7131 XNYS February 13, 2024 1,601 191.8625 ARCX February 13, 2024 8 191.1500 EDGA February 13, 2024 500 191.3860 XNAS February 13, 2024 25,841 191.9384 XNYS February 14, 2024 600 192.7617 ARCX February 14, 2024 109 193.3200 CDRG February 14, 2024 100 192.2200 EDGA February 14, 2024 100 192.2200 EDGX February 14, 2024 200 193.2300 XNAS February 14, 2024 19,291 192.9228 XNYS February 14, 2024 100 193.3200 XTXD February 15, 2024 100 195.3600 ARCX February 15, 2024 100 195.1200 XNAS February 15, 2024 3,500 194.3917 XNYS February 16, 2024 200 198.2200 XNYS The Company intends to hold these shares in treasury. Following the purchase of these shares (including those purchased but not yet settled), the number of shares held by the Company in treasury will be 29,292,629. Following the purchase of these shares, the remaining number of ordinary shares in issue will be 202,878,553. The figure of 202,878,553 may be used by shareholders (and others with notification obligations) 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 Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation), as it forms part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, detailed information about the individual purchases can be found at Ferguson Investors Shareholder Center Share Buy-Back Details 2024 Share Buy-Back. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221058902/en/ Contacts: For further information please contact: Brian Lantz, Vice President IR and Communications, +1 224 285 2410 Pete Kennedy, Director of Investor Relations, +1 757 603 0111 Through two framework contracts, the Company will continue to deliver global and real-time satellite AIS data for vessels tracking Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE: SPIR) ("Spire" or "the Company"), a leading global provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, has been awarded two framework contracts by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) with a maximum overall budget of 8.4 million. Concurrent with the framework award, Spire received two specific awards that total multi-million euros under the framework contracts. Under the contracts, Spire will provide space-based automatic identification system (SAT-AIS) data services for ship tracking over a four-year period, including real-time, standard and high-density backup SAT-AIS. Spire has provided satellite AIS data to EMSA since 2020. The data will be integrated into EMSA's SAT-AIS services, which aims to improve global vessel traffic monitoring with a focus on areas like polar regions where terrestrial AIS network coverage is limited. EMSA's SAT-AIS data services play a critical role in monitoring vessel traffic by acquiring data beyond the reach of terrestrial AIS network coverage to facilitate worldwide vessel monitoring. Spire's data will play a key role in enhancing global vessel tracking and maritime domain awareness, supporting EMSA's mission. "Ensuring accurate vessel monitoring is vital for maritime safety, security, and global environmental protection," said John Lusk, general manager of maritime, Spire. "At Spire, we believe our commitment to high reliability and superior data quality sets us apart in the industry, and we are thrilled that our dedicated efforts will not only support EMSA's vision but also play a significant role in advancing maritime safety within the EU and beyond." Spire's data shared with EMSA will also benefit EU and European Free Trade Association Member States authorities, EU institutions and international operational entities collaborating with the agency. About Spire Global, Inc. Spire (NYSE: SPIR) is a global provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, offering unique datasets and powerful insights about Earth so that organizations can make decisions with confidence in a rapidly changing world. Spire builds, owns, and operates a fully deployed satellite constellation that observes the Earth in real time using radio frequency technology. The data acquired by Spire's satellites provides global weather intelligence, ship and plane movements, and spoofing and jamming detection to better predict how their patterns impact economies, global security, business operations and the environment. Spire also offers Space as a Service solutions that empower customers to leverage its established infrastructure to put their business in space. Spire has nine offices across the U.S., Canada, UK, Luxembourg, Germany and Singapore. To learn more, visit spire.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221164469/en/ Contacts: Sarah Freeman Communications Manager Sarah.Freeman@spire.com Benjamin Hackman Head of Investor Relations Benjamin.Hackman@spire.com WORCESTER, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / SideChannel, Inc. (OTCQB:SDCH) ("SideChannel" or the "Company"), a leading provider of cybersecurity services and technology to emerging and middle market companies, is delighted to announce the appointment of two esteemed professionals, General (Retired) Robert Brown, and Mr. James Hansen, to its Board of Directors. The Company also announces the addition of Mr. Nick Hnatiw, the company's Chief Technology Officer, to the Board, and the re-election of Deborah MacConnel as Chairwoman of the Board. These strategic appointments and re-election underscore SideChannel's dedication to leadership excellence and innovation in addressing cybersecurity challenges. General (Retired) Robert Brown brings a wealth of leadership and national security experience to the board. His distinguished military career, culminating as a four-star general and his final command of the United States Army Pacific, highlights his exemplary commitment to service and strategic acumen. General Brown's involvement with the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) as Chief Executive Officer and his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) Board further highlight his dedication to supporting military communities and enhancing national security. Mr. James Hansen joins the board with an impressive background in the cybersecurity sector. His recent role as CEO of a leading cybersecurity software company, coupled with his tenure as President and COO at Swimlane and COFENSE, underscores his deep understanding of the cybersecurity challenges facing organizations today. Mr. Hansen's experience as a co-founder and COO of Mandiant (now part of Google "GOOG") demonstrates his expertise in managing high-stakes cyber incidents and his commitment to advancing cybersecurity resilience. Mr. Nick Hnatiw, who has served as SideChannel's Chief Technology Officer since November 2020, joins the Board with over 15 years of experience in creating cutting-edge software technologies. His leadership in developing security solutions and his prior roles supporting U.S. Cyber Command and Intelligence Agencies solidify his expertise in cybersecurity and technology innovation. Deborah MacConnel has been re-elected as Chairwoman of the Board, continuing her leadership role in steering the strategic direction of SideChannel. Her re-election reflects the board's confidence in her leadership and her significant contributions to the company's success. Brian Haugli, CEO of SideChannel, shared his enthusiasm about these developments: "The addition of General Brown, Mr. Hansen, and Mr. Hnatiw to our Board, alongside the re-election of Deborah MacConnel as Chairwoman, marks a significant milestone for SideChannel. General Brown's strategic insights, Mr. Hansen's cybersecurity acumen, and Mr. Hnatiw's technological expertise, under the continued guidance of Chairwoman MacConnel, will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape. We are poised for unprecedented growth and innovation, driven by our strengthened leadership team." The appointments and re-election are effective immediately, with the new board members actively contributing to SideChannel's mission of providing advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect against emerging threats. For more information about SideChannel and its solutions, please visit https://sidechannel.com. About SideChannel SideChannel helps emerging and mid-market companies protect their assets. Founded in 2019, the Company delivers comprehensive cybersecurity plans through a series of actions branded, SideChannel Complete. SideChannel deploys a combination of skilled and experienced talent, and technological tools to offer layered defense strategies supported by battle-tested processes. SideChannel also offers Enclave; a network infrastructure platform that eases the journey from zero to zero-trust. Learn more at sidechannel.com. Investors and shareholders are encouraged to receive press releases and industry updates by subscribing to the investor email newsletter and following SideChannel on X and LinkedIn. SideChannel 146 Main Street, Suite 405 Worcester, MA 01608 Investor Contact Ryan Polk ir@sidechannel.com Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including information about management's view of SideChannel's future expectations, plans and prospects, subject to the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words "believes", "hopes", "expects", "intends", "plans", "anticipates", "potential", "could", "should" or "may", and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Act and otherwise. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash and other measures of financial performance. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause SDCH's actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risk factors include, but are not limited to: that we have incurred net losses since inception, our need for additional funding, the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, and the terms of any future funding we raise; our dependence on current management and our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; competition for our products; our ability to develop and successfully introduce new products, improve current products and innovate; unpredictability in our operating results; our ability to retain existing licensees and add new licensees; our ability to manage our growth; our ability to protect our intellectual property (IP), enforce our IP rights and defend against claims that we infringed on the IP of others; the risk associated with the concentration of our cash in one financial institution at levels above the amount protected by FDIC insurance; and other risk factors included from time to time in documents we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, our Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Further, factors that we do not presently deem material as of the date of this release may become material in the future. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. SideChannel cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Finally, SideChannel undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements after the date of this release, except as required by law, nor any obligation to update or correct information prepared by third parties. SOURCE: SideChannel View the original press release on accesswire.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Maritime Resources Corp. (TSXV: MAE) ("Maritime" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it will be attending the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada ("PDAC") conference on March 3-6, 2024, in Toronto, Canada. Maritime's representatives, including members of senior management, technical staff and investor relations, will be happy to meet with investors and other interested parties at its Booth 2816 (Investors Exchange) at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Maritime is also pleased to announce that it has been invited to participate at the Canada's Atlantic Edge event organized by the Atlantic Canada Mining Alliance. Please see details below. Date: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 Location: Ontario/ Niagara Room, Intercontinental Hotel, adjoins Metro Toronto Convention Centre Time: Technical Sessions will take place at 9 am - 4:30 pm ET, followed by a B2B reception Maritime's Presentation: President and CEO Garett Macdonald will be presenting at 9:50 am ET Maritime is inviting investors to attend the event and speak to the Management. Registration is free and available at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/canadas-atlantic-edge-mining-investment-event-pdac-toronto-2024-tickets-795240344277. For more information on the event, please check https://www.atlanticcanadaminingalliance.com and reach out to edmoriarty@miningnl.com or sobrien@miningnl.com. Figure 1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4548/198588_f1fb8d5704d31920_002full.jpg About Maritime Resources Corp. Maritime (TSXV: MAE) is a gold exploration and development company focused on advancing the Hammerdown Gold Project in the Baie Verte District of Newfoundland and Labrador, a top tier mining jurisdiction. Maritime holds a 100% interest directly and subject to option agreements entitling it to earn 100% ownership in the Green Bay Property which includes the former Hammerdown gold mine and the Orion gold project. Maritime controls over 450 km2 of exploration land including the Green Bay, Whisker Valley, Gull Ridge and Point Rousse projects. Mineral processing assets owned by Maritime in the Baie Verte mining district include the Pine Cove mill and the Nugget Pond gold circuit. The Company also owns the Lac Pelletier gold project in Rouyn Noranda, Quebec. On Behalf of the Board, MARITIME RESOURCES CORP. 1900-110 Yonge St., Toronto, ON M5C 1T4 Phone: (416) 365-5321 For further information, please contact: Garett Macdonald President and CEO info@maritimegold.com www.maritimeresourcescorp.com Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: Certain of the statements made and information contained herein is "forward-looking information" within the meaning of National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations of the Canadian Securities Administrators. These statements and information are based on facts currently available to the Company and there is no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking statements and information may be identified by such terms as "anticipates", "believes", "targets", "estimates", "plans", "expects", "may", "will", "could" or "would". While the Company considers its assumptions to be reasonable as of the date hereof, forward-looking statements and information are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue importance on such statements as actual events and results may differ materially from those described herein. 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 information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements in this news release include without limitation, the completion of an updated feasibility study for the Hammerdown Gold Project, with Pine Cove as the primary processing facility and incorporating Hammerdown, Orion and Stog'er Tight into the production plan to create a longer life project, among others. All forward-looking information contained in this press release is given as of the date hereof, and is based on the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Neither 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198588 SOURCE: Maritime Resources Corp. LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Britain registered a record budget surplus in January on self-assessed tax but the excess remained below the government's estimate, official data revealed Wednesday. Public sector net borrowing, or PSNB, excluding public sector banks was in surplus by GBP 16.7 billion in January, the Office for National Statistics reported Wednesday. This was GBP 9.2 billion larger than in the same period last year and also marked the highest since records began in 1993. Nonetheless, the surplus for January was lower than the Office for Budget Responsibility forecast of GBP 18.2 billion. The budget balance usually log surplus in January due to receipts from self assessed taxes. The ONS said the last time there was not a January surplus was 2021, during the pandemic period. Central government receipts increased by GBP 3.9 billion to GBP 111.4 billion. Expenditure rose by GBP 1.6 billion to GBP 102.6 billion. Data showed that borrowing in the financial year-to-January was GBP 96.6 billion, which was GBP 3.1 billion less than in the same ten-month period a year ago. The OBR had projected a higher GBP 105.8 billion borrowing for the period. At the end of January, public sector net debt was provisionally estimated at around 96.5 percent of gross domestic product. Data came ahead of Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Spring Budget announcement on March 16. Despite the good news on public finances, this is unlikely to pave the way for a very big pre-election splash, Capital Economics economist Ruth Gregory said. The Chancellor will be handed 'headroom' of just GBP 15 billion, or 0.5 percent of GDP, limiting his ability to unveil big unfunded tax cuts if he wishes to adhere to the fiscal rules, Gregory added. 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 VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ATHA Energy Corp. (CSE: SASK) (FRA: X5U) (OTCQB: SASKF) ("ATHA") is pleased to provide another update on its previously announced proposed acquisition transaction with 92 Energy Limited (ASX: 92E) (OTCQX: NTELF) ("92E") further to its press releases dated December 7, 2023, January 25, 2024, and February 7, 2024. ATHA is pleased to announce that the independent expert of 92E, BDO Corporate Finance (WA) Pty Limited, has concluded that the proposed acquisition of 92E by ATHA is fair and reasonable and in the best interest of the shareholders of 92E ("92EShareholders"). Additionally, the Federal Court of Australia has made orders approving, amongst other matters: the convening by 92E of a meeting of 92E Shareholders (the " Scheme Meeting ") to consider and vote on the scheme of arrangement between ATHA and 92E (the " Scheme "); and ") to consider and vote on the scheme of arrangement between ATHA and 92E (the " "); and the dispatch by 92E of an explanatory statement containing information about the Scheme together with the notice of the Scheme Meeting (together, the "Scheme Booklet") to 92E Shareholders. The Scheme Meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m.. For additional information on the Scheme, please refer to ATHA's news releases dated December 7, 2023, January 25, 2024, and February 7, 2024. About ATHA ATHA is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral resource properties. ATHA holds the largest cumulative exploration package in each of the Athabasca Basin and Thelon Basin, two of the world's most prominent basins for uranium discoveries, with 6.4 million total acres along with a 10% carried interest portfolio of claims in the Athabasca Basin operated by NexGen Energy Ltd. and Iso Energy Ltd. For more information visit www.athaenergy.com . For more information, please contact: Troy Boisjoli Chief Executive Officer Email: info@athaenergy.com www.athaenergy.com Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. None of the securities to be issued pursuant to the Scheme have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and any securities issuable in the Scheme are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable exemptions under state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". These forward-looking statements or information may relate to, among other things, the Scheme, including statements with respect to the Scheme Meeting and the documents prepared by 92E in connection therewith, the receipt of the required regulatory, stock exchange (including the CSE, TSX Venture Exchange and Australian Securities Exchange) and other approvals, and the ability of ATHA and 92E to successfully close the Scheme. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time, are inherently subject to business, market and economic risks, uncertainties and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions regarding the ability of ATHA to satisfy the conditions imposed in connection with the completion of the Scheme, including finalization of meeting materials in connection with the Scheme Meeting, receipt of required shareholder, regulatory, court and stock exchange approvals, the ability of ATHA and 92E to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the Scheme, other expectations and assumptions concerning the Scheme, and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although each of ATHA and 92E have 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. KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - DC Healthcare Holdings Berhad ("DC Healthcare" or the "Group"), an aesthetic medical services provider specialising in the provision of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, is pleased to announce the openings of the Group's new branches in Johor Bahru (Taman Molek), and Ipoh (Bandar Seri Botani). These new facilities underscore DC Healthcare's ongoing commitment to extending reach and making premier aesthetic treatments more accessible across Malaysia.Equipped with advanced aesthetic technologies and staffed by a team of seasoned professionals, the new branches reflect DC Healthcare's dedication to excellence and patient-centered care. The introduction of these facilities aligns with the Group's strategic vision to enhance its service portfolio and fortify the presence within the aesthetic medicine industry.Dr. Chong Tze Sheng, Managing Director of DC Healthcare, shared his insights on the expansion, "The inauguration of our new branches in Johor Bahru and Ipoh, are key milestones in our journey of growth. These developments not only enhance our service capabilities but also bring us closer to our clients, offering them unparalleled access to top-tier aesthetic solutions. We are excited about the future and remain committed to leading the way in aesthetic medicine in Malaysia and beyond."As DC Healthcare continues to navigate the evolving landscape of aesthetic medicine, its strategic initiatives with the branch expansions, position the Group well for sustained success and leadership in the industry.Source: DC HealthcareCopyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. HFCL to establish a cutting-edge optical fiber cable manufacturing facility in Poland, aligning with Europe's gigabit connectivity opportunities The plant to begin with an initial capacity of 3.25 mn fkm p.a. scalable up to 7 mn fkm p.a. to fulfill increasing OFC demand This expansion will enable HFCL to gain significant increase in purchases by existing and new customers To bolster HFCL's presence in Europe with a target to significantly increase its export revenue share in its OFC vertical revenue from 30% to 70% within the next 4-5 years LONDON and NEW DELHI, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HFCL Limited (HFCL), a leading technology enterprise and integrated next-gen communications product including optical fiber cable (OFC) and solutions provider, announced its strategic expansion into Europe with the setting up of a state-of-the-art OFC manufacturing plant in Poland. This move marks a significant milestone in the company's global expansion strategy, aimed at addressing the increasing demand for OFC in European markets such as UK, Germany, Belgium, France, Poland, etc. With an ambitious vision to capitalize on burgeoning market opportunities and fortify its position as a key player in the OFC domain, HFCL aims to ramp up share of exports in its OFC vertical revenue from the current 30% to 70% within the next 4-5 years. Europe, with its promising growth prospects, particularly stands out as a focal point for HFCL's strategic initiatives. Europe's OFC market is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4.5% over the next five years with expected demand of 90 mn fkm p.a. by 2028. The FTTH council estimates around 308 million homes in the EU region to have FTTH connectivity by 2028, speeding up deployment by 3-5 years. This signals a rapid expansion of FTTH networks in these areas which will lead to increased demand of OFC. Factors such as bandwidth limitations of traditional cable and copper networks, regulatory imperatives driving fiber deployment and escalating traffic demands further underscore the critical need for full fiber solutions. Furthermore, recent geopolitical developments and regulatory shifts like possible imposition of anti-dumping duties underline the necessity for localized manufacturing to mitigate risks and ensure seamlessly enhanced access to target markets. HFCL's decision to establish a manufacturing footprint in Europe aligns perfectly with this imperative, safeguarding from potential regulatory shifts and enhancing competitiveness in the region. This proposed expansion will enable HFCL to enjoy a significant increase in purchases by existing customers. Poland has become the favoured European nation, primarily due to its attractive market access to other European nations for incentive programs and cost competitiveness. The country's strong connectivity is further enhanced through its well-developed ports. The availability of specialized skills at relatively lower labour cost than other European nations further enhances its attractiveness of being a premier manufacturing destination. HFCL's state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Poland will begin with a capacity of 3.25 mn fkm and scalable up to 7 mn fkm, with initial capital outlay up to ~INR144 Crores, fulfilling increasing OFC demand. This strategic move will not only enhance HFCL's agility but also reduce transit times by approximately six weeks, thereby enabling increase in order fulfilment capacity. The establishment of the manufacturing facility in Poland will be facilitated through the incorporation of a new stepdown subsidiary in Poland under HFCL B.V., a wholly- owned subsidiary of the Company in the Netherlands. Mr. Mahendra Nahata, Managing Director, HFCL, emphasized, "Our decision to set up a manufacturing unit in Poland underscores our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers. With Europe expected to remain a key market for optical fiber cable led communication, our foray into Poland not only ensures unfettered access to this growing European market but also helps improve the agility and responsiveness in catering to increasing optical fiber cable demands of our customers. With this strategic expansion, we are poised to align with Europe's vision, which anticipates gigabit connectivity as a cornerstone of its future. Our commitment to Europe's digital future is based on the unique approach of superior quality, customised solutions and innovative solutions in fastest turnaround time." The establishment of HFCL's OFC manufacturing plant in Poland marks a significant milestone in the company's journey toward global leadership in telecommunication solutions. Harnessing its technological expertise, operational efficiency and strategic foresight, HFCL is set to not only create employment opportunities but also spur industrial advancement in Poland. HFCL including its subsidiary HTL Limited has three cutting-edge manufacturing plants in India with a 25 mn fKm p.a. capacity, manufacturing the highest quality OFC for customers across the world. With this facility, HFCL is on a journey to expanding their international market reach, while continuing to offer the same level of high quality to their European customers. About HFCL HFCL is a leading technology company specializing in creating digital networks for telcos, enterprises, and governments. Over the years, HFCL has emerged as a trusted partner offering sustainable high-tech solutions with a commitment to providing the latest technology products to its customers. HFCL's strong R&D expertise coupled with its global system integration services and decades of experience in fiber optics enable it to deliver innovative digital network solutions required for the most advanced networks. The Company's in-house R&D Centres located at Gurgaon & Bengaluru along with invested R&D houses and other R&D collaborators at different locations in India and abroad, innovate a futuristic range of technology products and solutions. HFCL has developed capabilities to provide premium quality Optical Fiber and Optical Fiber Cables, state-of-the-art telecom products including 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) products, 5G Transport Products, Wi-Fi Systems (Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), Unlicensed Band Radios, Switches, Routers and Defence electronics products. The Company has state-of-the-art Optical Fiber and Optical Fiber Cable manufacturing plants in Hyderabad, an Optical Fiber Cable manufacturing plant in Goa and in its subsidiary HTL Limited in Chennai. HFCL is a partner of choice for its customers across India, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA. HFCL's commitment to quality and environmental sustainability inspires it to innovate solutions for the ever-evolving customer needs. Visit www.hfcl.com for more information. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2029588/HFCL_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hfcl-to-expand-presence-in-europe-with-setting-up-of-optical-fiber-cable-plant-in-poland-to-capitalize-growing-demand-of-ofc-in-europe-302067357.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Delivra Health Brands Inc. (TSXV: DHB) (OTCQB: DHBUF) ("Delivra Health" or the "Company"), a consumer packaged goods company uniquely positioned in the health and wellness sector, is pleased to announce that its Dream Water brand will be launching a new line of sleep gummies in the Canadian market. Sleep Gummies are expected to be available to Company distributors, retailers and e-commerce channels in June 2024. The launch of Dream Water Sleep Gummies in Canada is a significant milestone for the Company and will contribute to the Company's sales growth plan and brand expansion in North America. The product will be available through Delivra Health's national distribution partners in both retail and e-commerce channels and will improve Dream Water's overall channel penetration by leveraging the Company's expertise in branding, marketing, and distribution. Furthermore, this extension into a new functional format will allow the Dream Water brand to meet the changing trends in consumer behavior. "We are pleased to announce that Dream Water Sleep Gummies have been approved by Health Canada and will be available in Canadian retail and e-commerce locations in June of 2024," said Gord Davey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Delivra Health Brands. "The Canadian launch extends the success we have seen with this product in the United States in channels such as e-commerce, grocery, convenience and travel outlets, including all major US airports. We plan to continue our global rollout of Dream Water products and provide Dream Water Sleep Gummies to more territories in the near future." To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2413/198609_00da6e8c543c3a1b_001full.jpg About Delivra Health Brands Inc. Helping people take control of their health with alternative wellness solutions is what energizes the Delivra Health team! The Delivra Health portfolio features innovative brands like Dream Water and LivRelief, which deliver relief from common everyday issues like chronic pain, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Delivra Health products have allowed millions of customers to reclaim their mobility, energy, and in turn, quality of life. The websites of the Company's two subsidiaries are Dream Water and LivReliefTM. For more information, please visit www.delivrahealthbrands.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements with respect to the timing of when the Dream Water Sleep Gummies are expected to be available in Canada, any future rollouts of Dream Water products, the Company's products offering relief from chronic pain, anxiety, and sleeplessness, expectations regarding increase of the Company's revenues and profitability, the Company's growth objectives, increasing revenues and profitability, growth in new markets, and new distribution partners. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as 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 materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. Additional information regarding this and other risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's business are contained under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated March 2, 2021, and under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis dated November 28, 2023 for the three months ended September 30 2023, filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Neither TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Investor Relations: Jack Tasse Chief Financial Officer IR@delivrahealth.com 1-877-915-7934 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198609 SOURCE: Delivra Health Brands Inc. TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Northern Superior Resources Inc. ("Northern Superior" or the "Company") (TSXV:SUP)(OTCQX:NSUPF) is pleased to announce the nomination of Kyle Stanfield, a seasoned sustainability expert, as the Chief Executive Officer of its spinout company, henceforth known as ONGold Resources Ltd. ("ONGold"), which will take ownership of Northern Superior's Ontario assets, namely the coveted TPK Project, the October Gold Project, currently under an Earn-in and Joint Venture Agreement with Evolution Mining Limited (ASX:EVN) (see press release dated November 6, 2023), Thorne Lake, Rapson Bay, and Meston Lake. ONGold is the resulting issuer from the previously announced transaction between the Company and 1348515 B.C. Ltd. (See press releases dated July 10, 2023, and September 6, 2023.) Mr. Stanfield brings over 25 years of extensive experience in mineral exploration and project development with a particularly strong focus on project planning, indigenous consultation and agreements, as well as regulatory engagement. Mr. Stanfield has worked collaboratively with over 30 First Nations and Metis communities in Ontario and British Columbia in support of mineral resource exploration and project development. Earlier in his career, he played a pivotal role at the Musselwhite mine in Ontario, one of Canada's largest mines currently operated by Newmont Corporation, consulting with the five Musselwhite Agreement signatory First Nations. In British Columbia, he was instrumental in leading the operational launch of the Tahltan First Nation environmental joint venture including facilitating an environmental training program for Tahltan elders and youth at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, his alma mater. In recent years, Mr. Stanfield spearheaded environmental assessments, indigenous consultation and permitting programs for both the Rainy River mine, located in Ontario and operated by New Gold Inc., as well as Argonaut Gold Inc.'s Magino mine, which recently achieved commercial production, also in Ontario. Simon Marcotte, President and Chief Executive Officer of Northern Superior, commented: "We look forward to Kyle becoming CEO of ONGold. His extensive experience working collaboratively with both indigenous communities as well as regulatory agencies to advance mineral development brings tremendous advantages to our group. The selection of a leader in this field of expertise for this role underscores our profound recognition of the critical role that social responsibility and meaningful indigenous consultation play in both the early exploration and subsequent development phases. We are confident that he can adeptly guide the team to navigate these stages, steadfastly upholding his principles while engaging with stakeholders across Ontario, where immense value can be unlocked with the right approach." Kyle Stanfield, nominated Chief Executive Officer of ONGold, commented: "Embracing sustainability isn't just about meeting regulations; it's about building relationships, fostering trust, and leaving a positive legacy. I'm honored to be presented with the opportunity to lead ONGold in this pivotal moment, where we can merge innovation with respect for indigenous communities and environmental stewardship to shape a future where responsible resource development thrives. I am deeply grateful to the management and Board of Northern Superior for entrusting me with this role and for their visionary commitment to sustainability and social acceptability." About Northern Superior Resources Inc. Northern Superior is a gold exploration company focused on the Chibougamau Camp in Quebec, Canada. The Company has consolidated the largest land package in the region, with total land holdings currently exceeding 62,000 hectares. The main properties include Philibert, Lac Surprise, Chevrier and Croteau. Northern Superior also owns significant exploration assets in Northern Ontario highlighted by the district scale TPK Project. The Philibert Project is located 9 km from IAMGOLD Corporation's Nelligan Gold project which was awarded the "Discovery of the Year" by the Quebec Mineral Exploration Association (AEMQ) in 2019. Philibert host a new maiden 43-101 inferred resource of 1,708,800 ounces Au and an indicated resource of 278,900 ounces of Au1. Northern Superior holds a majority stake of 75% in the Philibert Project, with the remaining 25% owned by SOQUEM, and retains an option to acquire the full 100% ownership of the project. Chevrier hosts an inferred mineral resource of 652,000 ounces Au (underground and open pit) and an indicated mineral resource of 260,000 ounces Au.2 Croteau hosts an inferred mineral resource of 640,000 ounces Au.3 Lac Surprise hosts the Falcon Zone Discovery, interpreted to be the western strike extension of IAMGOLD Corporation's Nelligan Deposit. 1 Northern Superior announces 1,708,809 gold ounces in inferred category and 278,921 gold ounces in indicated category at 1.10 g/t in maiden NI 43-101 pit constrained resource estimate at Philibert; Northern Superior Resources Inc. press release dated August 08, 2023. 2 NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimation for the Chevrier Main Deposit, Chevrier Project Chibougamau, Quebec, Canada, October 20, 2021, Prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 by Lions Gate Geological Consulting Inc. IOS Services Geoscientifiques Inc. for Northern Superior Resources Inc. 3 Chalice Gold Mines Limited and Northern Superior Resources Inc. Technical Report on the Croteau Est Gold Project, Quebec, September 2015, Prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 by Optiro Pty Ltd ("Optiro") to Chalice Gold Mines Limited and Northern Superior Resources Inc. Northern Superior is a reporting issuer in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol SUP and the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol NSUPF. For further information, please refer to the Company's website at www.nsuperior.com or on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). Northern Superior Resources Inc. on Behalf of the Board of Directors Simon Marcotte, CFA, President and Chief Executive Officer Contact Information Simon Marcotte, CFA President and Chief Executive Officer Tel: (647) 801-7273 info@nsuperior.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. The information in this news release about the proposed transaction; and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward-looking information". Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, interpretations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "interpreted", "management's view", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward- looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of Northern Superior, at the time it was made, involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the companies to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, risks relating to the ability of the parties to execute the proposed transaction. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the parties cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither party nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such forward-looking information. Neither party undertakes, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. SOURCE: Northern Superior Resources Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Rush Rare Metals Corp. ("Rush" or the "Company") (CSE:RSH) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"), raising gross proceeds of $262,115, and to provide a general update regarding its projects in Wyoming and Quebec. Rush currently has 100% ownership in two projects - a former uranium producer in Wyoming known as Copper Mountain, and a niobium property in Quebec called Boxi showing early promise. COPPER MOUNTAIN On October 18, 2023, Rush signed a property option agreement with Myriad Uranium Corp. ("Myriad") pursuant to which Myriad has the option (the "Option") to earn up to a 75% interest in and to Rush's Copper Mountain Project, covering approximately 2,000 acres near Riverton, Wyoming. Before Myriad earns a full 75%, there are requirements for Myriad to make expenditures on the property and to make share payments to Rush, and in addition Rush retains a favourable split on early production (see previous Rush news release dated October 20, 2023 for full details). Immediately after executing this agreement, Myriad began a comprehensive review of a cache of recently found historical documents indicating tens of millions in previous exploration work conducted at Copper Mountain, much of it done by Union Pacific prior to 1980. Myriad's review is ongoing, but they released an interim update referenced in a Rush news release dated November 1, 2023. The newly discovered documents include historical resource estimates, mining feasibility studies, geological reports, mining plans, drill logs, and a wealth of other highly useful data. This data has, in turn, provided enormous benefit to Myriad, allowing them to focus efforts on areas previously acknowledged to have the highest grades of uranium and to conduct advanced investigation into new areas that might otherwise have been considered as purely greenfield. It is Rush's understanding that much more is being learned and further updates from Myriad are forthcoming in due course. Images 1, 2, and 3 below show some of the historical data found as well as the Rush and Myriad CEOs at Copper Mountain. Images 1, 2, 3 - Historical reports and Copper Mountain Peter Smith, Rush CEO, commented that "it cannot be overstated what a tremendous head-start this new data gives the project. Subject to verification, we already have strong indications that Copper Mountain has significant amounts of uranium, and perhaps more importantly we know exactly where previous operators were focusing their efforts. Essentially, we get the direct benefit of tens of millions in spending, and we get to pick up where they left off, miles ahead of other projects where maiden drill programs are just underway. We know that over 2,000 drill holes were completed in the area, we have log details for many of those holes, and we also know that Union Pacific had plans to resume mining at Copper Mountain right before the market collapsed in the 1980's. At this point, and with uranium prices trending the right direction, the data suggests we have the blueprints for a potential future uranium producer on our hands. Perhaps the best part for Rush is that we get to sit back and watch the extremely capable team at Myriad analyze all this data and take the project forward, while we get to focus our time and resources on our other project, the Boxi property, in Quebec." BOXI Main exploration efforts by Rush are being focused on Boxi, a road-accessible property comprised of over 8,000 hectares a short distance from Mont Laurier. Boxi was formerly explored by Areva S.A. (now Orano), who held the property based on early samples returning very high values for uranium (including one sample returning a value of 11.9% U308). However, Orano dropped the property following the Fukushima incident, and uranium mining was subsequently suspended in Quebec under a temporary moratorium still in place today. Rush originally acquired the property on the strength of niobium values in samples taken by Orano in 2011. Of five samples taken, three returned values of 26.9%, 3.09%, and 2.41% Nb205 respectively. These samples were taken from a mineralized dyke which runs right at surface. In 2023, Rush engaged in further stripping along further sections of the dyke, taking 17 further samples over a distance of about 2km (the dyke itself may be as long as 14km or longer in total). Of these, all were anomalous for niobium, and the five highest samples returned values of 6.9%, 2.32%, 1.56%, 1.4% and 1.0% Nb205. A visual of a stripped and sampled section of the mineralized dyke is provided in Image 4 below, and full results from the sampling program were provided in Rush's news release dated October 16, 2023. Image 4 - Stripped area of mineralized dyke running at surface through Boxi Niobium is categorized as a critical mineral in Canada and is used to make strong, light weight and corrosion resistant steel, superconductors, and various other highly topical products. There are only three niobium mines of any significance in the world, two of them in Brazil, and the third, the Niobec Mine, just 350 km from Boxi in Quebec. At Niobec, mining occurs at between 90 and 450 meters, and niobium grades are between 0.4 and 0.5% (based on past disclosures made by Niobec's operators). Interestingly, strong values for uranium also persist at Boxi. Of 22 total known samples from the dyke, 17 returned values for U308 over 200 ppm, 11 returned values of at least 0.1%, and 4 registered at over 1% (with the original sample taken by Orano still being the highest at 11.9%). Again, these samples as well as the above noted niobium samples were all taken right at surface. With recent global emphasis on nuclear power as a strong, low emission alternative to fossil-fuel generated electricity, and with recent uranium exploration/production encouragement by many world governments, the Company feels that it's possible the temporary moratorium in Quebec may soon be lifted. Peter Smith commented, "of particular interest to us is WA1 Resources, which trades on the ASX. From October 2022 until now, they've gone from a price of $0.14 per share to over $10 per share on the strength of a new niobium discovery in Western Australia. We feel that there's a possibility we can follow their success if we can further expand on some of these early high grades by drilling into our own mineralized system and hopefully showing niobium occurs not only at surface, but for some distance below. It is also noteworthy that there is currently support and encouragement in North America to develop local critical mineral assets. The niobium potential at Boxi is in and of itself a potential company-maker, and if the moratorium on uranium mining in Quebec is lifted, the uranium at Boxi adds yet another highly compelling element to our story. All this in addition to Copper Mountain, with its enormous uranium potential, and being advanced by Myriad." In 2024, Rush will continue to investigate new sections of the dyke at Boxi, while also attempting to learn more about its overall size and consistency. To this end, it is expected that the Company will engage in some shallow drilling and/or trenching. Moreover, as it is expected that there are many other mineralized systems running throughout the property, further prospecting will be done within the claim area, which is substantial. For any future financings related to Boxi exploration work, Rush would presumably qualify for the federal critical minerals flow-through tax credit, in addition to applicable Quebec flow-through credits. Qualified Person Michael Anderson, P. Geo, a "Qualified Person" for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific or technical information included in this news release respecting the Boxi property. There were no limits on the verification process. Further scientific or technical information in this news release respecting the Boxi property is based on an independent geological report titled "43-101 Technical Report on the BOXI REE-Nb-U Deposit" dated August 6, 2022 and available at Rush's disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). PRIVATE PLACEMENT DETAILS Under the previously referenced Offering, the Company issued an aggregate of 3,744,499 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.07 per Unit. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company and one share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant", entitling the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.15 per common share for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of issuance). Securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four month hold period expiring June 21, 2024, in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Offering for general working capital. The Company did not pay any finder's fees in connection with the Offering. Directors and officers of the Company participated in the Offering, and such participation is considered to be a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). This is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of such participation does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this news release in the United States. Such securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and, accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of persons in the United States or "U.S. Persons", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements. About Rush Rare Metals Corp. Rush Rare Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on its Boxi Property located in the Province of Quebec, Canada. Rush also owns the Copper Mountain Project located in Wyoming, USA, which it has optioned to Myriad Uranium Corp. For further information, please refer to Rush's disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) or contact Rush by email at psmith@rushraremetals.com or by telephone at 778.999.7030, or refer to Rush's website at www.rushraremetals.com. Rush Contacts: Peter Smith Chief Executive Officer psmith@rushraremetals.com ### Mineralization hosted on adjacent or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's properties. Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements, including with respect to future plans, and other matters. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, business, economic and capital market conditions, the ability to manage operating expenses, and dependence on key personnel. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, anticipated costs, and the ability to achieve goals. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, the continued availability of capital and financing, litigation, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The CSE has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this news release. SOURCE: Rush Rare Metals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com COQUITLAM, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid") (TSXV:CELL)(OTCQB:EVKRF)(FRA:NMK2) is pleased to announce that it has confirmed the date and meeting location with our Transfer Agent, Odyssey Trust Company, for the Company's upcoming Annual Special and General Meeting (the "Meeting"). The Meeting will be set for 10:00 am (Pacific Standard Time) on April 9, 2024 and will be held at the Company's address of record, 3028 Quadra Court in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Mailout of the Management Information Circular to Grid shareholders will begin on March 13, 2024. A notice has recently been filed on SEDAR+ confirming these dates. Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments "At this year's upcoming Meeting, among other corporate matters, the shareholders will be voting on the spin-out of our wholly -owned subsidiary containing our BC Nickel assets, as a separate company that we plan on listing on the TSX Venture Exchange in the days ahead. For no additional cost, our shareholders will receive a proportionate share of this new entity, which will represent a valuable share dividend to each of our shareholders. We are separating our Nevada-based lithium properties from our British Columbia-based nickel properties, and plan on separately financing this new entity, AC/DC Battery Metals Inc., order to create additional shareholder value. We believe this to be a big win for our shareholders." The Proposed Transaction The Company has entered into an Arrangement Agreement as amended, with its wholly owned subsidiary AC/DC Battery Metals Inc. ("SpinCo"). In accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement and amendment, Grid will transfer to SpinCo ownership of its interests in its nickel properties in British Columbia, which consists of five claim blocks in three groups (Nickel West, Nickel Central, Nickel South) in the area surrounding Mount Sidney Williams, in close proximity to the Decar Project and the Baptiste deposit of FPX Nickel Corp (TSXV:FPX). (collectively, the "Transferred Assets") in exchange for approximately 9,414,040 common shares of SpinCo (the "Consideration Shares"). Grid will spin out the Consideration Shares (the "Spin-Out Shares") to Grid shareholders. It is proposed that the transaction will be carried out by way of statutory plan of arrangement (the "Spin-Out") pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the Spin-Out, shareholders of Grid would exchange their existing common shares of Grid for the same number of new common shares of Grid (having the identical terms of the existing Grid common shares) and Spin-Out Shares of SpinCo. There will be no change in shareholders' holdings in Grid as a result of the Spin-Out. It is anticipated that each Grid shareholder will receive 1/20 of a Spin-Out Share for each Grid common share held as at the record date for the arrangement. Grid will continue to hold its interest in its Nevada-based Lithium Projects (Texas Springs, Volt Canyon and Clayton Valley Lithium Projects). The Spin-Out Transaction requires the approval of the, the TSX Venture Exchange "(Exchange"), the Grid shareholders and approval of the British Columbia Supreme Court in order to proceed. Full details on the Spin-Out Transaction will be contained in the Management Information Circular to be prepared for the Grid shareholder meeting. Grid shareholders are urged to read the Management Information Circular carefully and in its entirety. The intention is to seek a listing of the SpinCo common shares on the Exchange but no assurance can be provided that such a listing will be obtained. Any such listing will be subject to SpinCo fulfilling all of the applicable regulatory and listing requirements. BC Nickel Property Update The Company announced on January 10, 2024 the filing of its National Instrument # 43-101 Technical Report for the Nickel Project, dated December 4, 2023, in the Takla Lake Area, BC and prepared by Jeremy Hanson, P.Geo. (the "Technical Report") has been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and can be obtained on the Company's website at gridbatterymetals.com/nickel-project. As a recap, the third phase of our BC Nickel exploration program was completed in 2023 and included a detailed sampling, trenching and initial drilling program. The proposed fourth phase of the exploration program, planned for the 2024 exploration season, follows a recommendation contained within the Technical Report. Within this exploration plan, funds have been allocated for exploration work that includes field work on all three claim block groups targeting historic results, vectoring towards elevated DTR Ni, and sampling and mapping of untested magnetic anomalies. The exploration stage project is in the Trembleur Lake area of central British Columbia, partially adjacent to FPX Nickel Corp.'s (TSXV: FPX, OTC: FPOCF) Decar Nickel Project, which is an advanced project targeting awaruite, a nickel-iron alloy mineral, hosted by serpentinized ultramafic intrusive rocks of the Trembleur Ultramafic Unit. FPX Nickel Corp. has invested over CAD$25 million developing the Decar Project and plans to issue a Prefeasibility Study this calendar year as announced on June 27, 2023 showing increased nickel recoveries on the project. FPX's Decar Nickel Project is widely recognized as on the 7th largest nickel deposit in the world (Source: Mining.com, May 1, 2023). Qualified Person Jeremy Hanson, P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by NI 43 - 101, is responsible for the technical information contained in this release regarding Grid's BC Nickel Properties. Readers are cautioned that the information in this press release regarding the property of FPX Nickel Corp is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the property of interest. About Grid Battery Metals Inc. Grid Battery Metals Inc. is a Canadian based exploration company whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market. www.gridbatterymetals.com. About Texas Springs Property The Company owns a 100% interest in the Texas Spring Property which consists of mineral lode claims located in Elko County, Nevada. The Property is in the Granite Range southeast of Jackpot, Nevada, about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Nevada. The target is a lithium clay deposit in volcanic tuff and tuffaceous sediments of the Humbolt Formation. A Phase 1 exploration program at the Texas Springs Property (Fall 2023) yielded results with average lithium grades of 2010 ppm, applying a 1,000 ppm cut-off, and up to 5,610 ppm Lithium. The Texas Spring property adjoins the southern border of the Nevada North Lithium Project - owned by Surge Battery Metals Inc. ("Surge") (TSXV: NILI, OTC: NILIF) and comprised of 725 mineral claims. Surge's first round of drilling identified strongly mineralized lithium bearing clays. The average lithium content within all near surface clay zones intersected in the 2022 drilling program, applying a 1000 ppm cut-off, was 3254 ppm. (Press release March 29, 2023). More recent results have shown higher grade lithium up to 8070 ppm on this property after initial drilling (Press release September 12, 2023).Our exploration results are on-trend with these results. About Clayton Valley Lithium Project The Company owns a 100% interest in 113 lithium lode and placer claims covering over 640 hectares in Clayton Valley. Clayton Valley is a down-dropped closed basin formed by the Miocene age Great Basin extension and is still active due to movement along the Walker Lane structural zone. As a result, the basin has preserved multiple layers of lithium bearing volcanic ash, resulting from multiple eruptive events over the past 6 million years including eruptions from the 700,000-year-old Long Valley Caldera system and related events. These ash layers are thought to contribute to the lithium brines extracted by Albemarle and are also likely involved in the formation of the exposed lithium rich clay deposits on the east side of Clayton Valley. Volt Canyon Lithium Property The Company owns a 100% interest in 80 placer claims covering approximately 635 hectares of alluvial sediments and clays located 122 km northeast of Tonopah, Nevada. About the British Columbia, Nickel Projects The Mount Sidney Williams Group consists of three claim blocks with a total area of 10,569 hectares in the area surrounding Mount Sidney Williams, both adjoining and near the Decar project of FPX Nickel Corp., located 100 kilometres northwest of Fort St. James, B.C., in the Omineca mining division. Metallic mineralization includes nickel, cobalt, and chromium. At least some of the nickel mineralization occurs as awaruite. The Mitchell Range Group area claim consists of one claim block covering 8,659 hectares with demonstrated metallic mineralization including nickel, cobalt, and chromium. Nickel cobalt mineralization has not been well explored, but the presence of awaruite has been documented. On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Tim Fernback" Tim Fernback, President & CEO Contact Information: Email: info@gridbatterymetals.com Phone: 604- 428-5690 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements which include, but are not limited to, comments that involve future events and conditions, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Except for statements of historical facts, comments that address resource potential, upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt and security of mineral property titles, availability of funds, and others are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may vary materially from those statements. General business conditions are factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from forward-looking statements. It should be noted that results from any adjacent property(s) are not an indication of what may be found on the Company's property(s). SOURCE: Grid Battery Metals Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Cosa Resources Corp. (TSXV: COSA) (OTCQB: COSAF) (FSE: SSKU) ("Cosa" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the acquisition of the 100% owned Cosmo uranium property in the eastern Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan ("Cosmo" or the "Property"). Highlights 12 contiguous mineral dispositions totalling over 9,300 hectares with no encumbrances acquired via low-cost staking Cosmo captures 18 kilometres of prospective magnetic low strike-length with no prior drilling Mobilization for Cosa's initial diamond drilling program at the Ursa Project is nearing completion Keith Bodnarchuk, President and CEO, commented: "With the successful acquisition of Cosmo, we continue to strengthen our portfolio of prospective and under-explored uranium projects in the Athabasca Basin. As the clean energy revolution builds momentum, projects with sufficient size and the right geological framework are becoming more difficult to acquire. We look forward to advancing Cosmo to drill testing given the proximity to known mineralization on trend and the project's location close to existing infrastructure." Andy Carmichael, VP of Exploration, commented: "Historically, the Mudjatik domain was considered less prospective than other parts of the eastern Athabasca Basin and so received far less exploration attention. The discovery of the Hurricane deposit in 2018 proved the Mudjatik is highly prospective and revitalized exploration of this previously undervalued domain. Cosmo's 18 kilometres of Mudjatik magnetic low has never seen a modern ground geophysical survey or a single drill hole and represents an excellent exploration prospect proximal to the mining and milling infrastructure of the eastern Athabasca." The Cosmo Property Cosmo comprises 12 claims totaling 9,308 hectares in the eastern Athabasca Basin and is located 36 kilometres west of the Hurricane Deposit and 58 kilometres north of the Cigar Lake Mine (Figure 1). Provincial Highway 905 passes within seven kilometres of the Property and a network of trails and a provincial powerline pass through the Property (Figure 2). Cosmo covers 18 kilometres of curvilinear magnetic low strike length interpreted to represent favourable metasediments. Historical exploration was limited to a 1979 lake sediment sampling program and a 2007 airborne geophysical survey. While no drilling is known within the Property, historical drilling located 13 to 25 kilometres along strike to the east intersected several intervals of weak uranium mineralization, including 0.20% U3O8 over 1.2 metres in drill hole BL-14-20 (549.9 - 551.1 m). Next Steps Cosa anticipates initial work will include electromagnetic (EM) surveying to define target areas within the Property. Given the ease of access and proximity to known mineralization along strike, positive results would warrant aggressive follow up work including ground EM and diamond drilling. Other News Despite unseasonably warm conditions, mobilization of drilling equipment, supplies, and personnel to Cosa's Ursa Project is ongoing and is nearing completion. Diamond drilling is expected to commence immediately thereafter. Additionally, Keith Bodnarchuk, CEO, and Justin Rodko, Corporate Development Manager, will be attending PDAC in Toronto, Ontario from March 3rd to 6th 2024 and will be available for meetings. Figure 1 - Cosa's Portfolio of Athabasca Basin Region Uranium Exploration Properties To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9865/198662_9315bce244fec916_003full.jpg Figure 2 - Cosmo Property Map To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9865/198662_9315bce244fec916_004full.jpg About Cosa Resources Corp. Cosa Resources is a Canadian uranium exploration company operating in northern Saskatchewan. The portfolio comprises roughly 209,000 ha across multiple projects in the Athabasca Basin region, all of which are underexplored, and the majority reside within or adjacent to established uranium corridors. Cosa's award-winning management team has a long track record of success in Saskatchewan. In 2022, members of the Cosa team were awarded the AME Colin Spence Award for their previous involvement in discovering IsoEnergy's Hurricane deposit. Prior to Hurricane, Cosa personnel led teams or had integral roles in the discovery of Denison Mines' Gryphon deposit and 92 Energy's Gemini Zone and held key roles in the founding of both NexGen and IsoEnergy. Cosa's primary focus through 2024 is initial drilling at their Ursa Project, which captures over 60-kilometres of strike length of the Cable Bay Shear Zone, a regional structural corridor with known mineralization and limited historical drilling. It potentially represents the last remaining eastern Athabasca corridor to not yet yield a major discovery. Modern geophysics completed by Cosa in 2023 identified multiple high-priority target areas characterized by conductive basement stratigraphy beneath or adjacent to broad zones of inferred sandstone alteration - a setting that is typical of most eastern Athabasca uranium deposits. Qualified Person The Company's disclosure of technical or scientific information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Andy Carmichael, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration for Cosa. Mr. Carmichael is a Qualified Person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101. This news release refers to neighboring properties in which the Company has no interest. Mineralization on those neighboring properties does not necessarily indicate mineralization on the Company's properties. Contact Keith Bodnarchuk, President and CEO info@cosaresources.ca +1 888-899-2672 (COSA) Cautionary Statements Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, planned exploration activities. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements relating to: the exploration, development, and production at the Company's mineral projects. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of the Company, future growth potential for the Company and its business, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of uranium and other commodities; no escalation in the severity of public health crises; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. These statements reflect the Company's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company's dependence on one mineral project; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; the ongoing military conflict around the world; general economic factors; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's management discussion and analysis and other public disclosure documents. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198662 SOURCE: Cosa Resources Corp. Magazine Also Recognizes Louisville-based Company With World Whiskies Awards for All Five Whiskey Expressions Peerless Submitted LOUISVILLE, KY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, a family-owned and operated craft distillery in Louisville, has won Whisky Magazine's Icons of Whisky award for Production Team of the Year and all five of its whiskey expressions submitted - Peerless Small Batch Bourbon, Peerless Small Batch Rye, Peerless Small Batch Double Oak Bourbon, Peerless Small Batch Double Oak Rye and Peerless High Rye Bourbon - were also recognized by the magazine's World Whiskies Awards. Production Team of the Year 2024 Icons of Whisky America Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company Production Team of the Year Run by the team at Whisky Magazine, the Icons of Whisky aim to celebrate the best and brightest people and places in the sector. The World Whiskies Awards commend the best whiskies from around the world in a wide variety of categories. Bethany Brown, editor of Whisky Magazine and chair of judges for the Icons of Whisky, said, "Through the Icons of Whisky and World Whiskies Awards, we aim to celebrate the very best of the American whiskey world. Here, size doesn't matter - it's what you do with it that counts, and there are some truly remarkable things being done." "We have unique standards when it comes to production. Our team has stepped up to the plate in an amazing way and it feels good to be recognized for that. I'm proud of all that our small team has accomplished and look forward to what the future holds," said Carson Taylor, fifth-generation President. Full lists of the 2024 Icons of Whisky America and World Whiskies Awards winners, along with more about the competitions, can be found at www.worldwhiskiesawards.com. Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company is open to the public Monday through Saturday for tours and tastings in Louisville, Kentucky. About Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. The family-owned and operated craft distillery is located in Louisville, Kentucky. It was established in 1889 and resurrected in 2013 by Corky Taylor, 4th Generation, and Carson Taylor, 5th Generation. The distillery is known for its commitment to producing handcrafted, sweet mash bourbon and rye whiskey using traditional methods and the finest ingredients. Today, Peerless operates under the same distilled spirits number, DSP-KY-50, with the same historically superlative standards. It has opted to craft entirely in-house without outsourcing or comprising. "We're driven by quality, not profit," says Corky Taylor. "We're very serious about making the best product we can." Contact: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, 120 North 10th Street, Louisville, KY 40202 For press inquiries: christina@kentuckypeerless.com For additional elements: https://bit.ly/2024IconsofWhiskyAmerica Like or follow Peerless on Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube Contact Information Cadie Tucker Marketing cadie@kentuckypeerless.com (502) 566-4999 Christina Vassallo Marketing Manager christina@kentuckypeerless.com 50244421892 SOURCE: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company View the original press release on newswire.com. Essential Data Intelligence and Fit for AI Framework Organizes, Curates, and Enables Business Critical Insights for Enterprises BOSTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Nasuni, a leading hybrid cloud storage solution, today announced Nasuni IQ: data intelligence capabilities to help enterprises manage, assess, and prepare their unstructured data environment for artificial intelligence (AI). With Nasuni IQ, businesses can quickly monitor usage patterns, make proactive data management decisions, and better enable the delivery of intelligent insights. As the volume of unstructured data continues to grow in the enterprise, a comprehensive data management strategy has become a top concern for businesses looking to leverage AI. According to Gartner , large enterprises will triple their unstructured data capacity by 2028. Since unstructured data is where much of the enterprise's intellectual property is housed, unlocking its potential is critical. For many companies, this data has been forgotten in legacy storage silos. The Nasuni File Data Platform supports the next generation of data initiatives by consolidating unstructured data within a single global namespace. Additionally, Nasuni can help companies move off their legacy NAS infrastructure quickly and efficiently with its Professional Services offerings. With the addition of Nasuni IQ, platform users gain access to the following key features: Enhanced Visibility and Insights : Gain a comprehensive understanding of distributed Nasuni file data infrastructure with dashboards and monitoring that provide a detailed view of all user activities, usage patterns, and consumption. : Gain a comprehensive understanding of distributed Nasuni file data infrastructure with dashboards and monitoring that provide a detailed view of all user activities, usage patterns, and consumption. Proactive Data Management: Anticipate storage needs, identify potential bottlenecks, and implement data management policies to ensure resources are allocated effectively. Anticipate storage needs, identify potential bottlenecks, and implement data management policies to ensure resources are allocated effectively. Data Curation for AI: Can be used as an additional tool to help curate unstructured data to support advanced analytics and AI initiatives. "As more businesses turn to AI and advanced analytics for a competitive edge, understanding and managing the data feeding those tools will be the deciding factor in their success," said Russ Kennedy, Chief Product Officer, Nasuni. "Nasuni's Data Platform consolidates silos of data in a cloud object store and then provides enterprises with the visibility and insight to leverage their data for the next generation of intelligence tools." Nasuni IQ will be delivered as part of the core Nasuni File Data Platform, and supports Nasuni's overall Fit for AI framework designed to help customers bring their data strategy in line with being ready for AI use-cases. Nasuni IQ enables customers to quickly take advantage of a number of important capabilities, including: Fit for AI Assessment: Evaluate an organization's data landscape, understand consumption patterns, and begin ensuring the data is AI-ready. Evaluate an organization's data landscape, understand consumption patterns, and begin ensuring the data is AI-ready. File Usage Analytics: Track usage and collaboration patterns across users, departments, file types, volumes, and more. Gain visibility to optimize storage, plan capacity, and facilitate capacity-based chargeback. Track usage and collaboration patterns across users, departments, file types, volumes, and more. Gain visibility to optimize storage, plan capacity, and facilitate capacity-based chargeback. Health Monitoring: Monitor system component metrics to proactively identify resource contention and capacity limits so administrators can take preventative measures. Monitor system component metrics to proactively identify resource contention and capacity limits so administrators can take preventative measures. Forensic Capabilities: Perform historical analysis of file, user, or application activity when troubleshooting issues or investigating information security events. Perform historical analysis of file, user, or application activity when troubleshooting issues or investigating information security events. Automated Reporting: Leverage prebuilt reports and dashboards that deliver actionable intelligence to technical and business users and support chargeback reporting. "The rapid emergence of AI technology is driving organizations to evaluate how they can use unstructured data to their advantage," said Scott Sinclair, Practice Director of Cloud, Infrastructure, and DevOps at ESG. "Nasuni IQ is a powerful new solution that aids data discovery and enables organizations to do the critical curation that should be done before exposing business data to AI services and language models. The Nasuni File Data Platform allows organizations to consolidate previously disparate data silos into a single namespace which radically simplifies management, and Nasuni IQ will further optimize that storage resource for secure, effective data preparation for AI-driven insights." "Nasuni IQ has become a valuable tool for our file data oversight," said Rob Ruggiero, Global Infrastructure Architect at SGSCO. "With its intuitive features, we effortlessly track the most active users, monitor dynamic directories, and gain valuable insights into file interactions. The ability to identify hotspots and trace file movements has enhanced our monitoring capabilities, enabling us to visualize our data collaboration patterns. Nasuni IQ stands out as a reliable ally for those seeking a practical boost in file share data monitoring efficiency." The launch follows another successful year for Nasuni in 2023 which saw 46 percent growth in new customer bookings and 118% net revenue retention. For more information on Nasuni IQ, please click here to learn more. About Nasuni Nasuni is a leading hybrid cloud storage solution that powers business growth with effortless scalability, built-in security, and fast edge performance using a unique cloud-native architecture. The Nasuni File Data Platform delivers operational excellence by consolidating NAS and backup, eliminating data silos, and making management easy and flexible without changes to apps or workflows. Its built-in security offers proactive defense and rapid recovery, lowering organizations' risk from the detrimental effects of ransomware attacks and other disasters. Synchronized access to file data everywhere ensures user productivity by supporting remote and hybrid work. By leveraging object storage, data is consolidated and optimized for content intelligence tools and AI workflows. Organizations worldwide rely on Nasuni, including leaders in manufacturing, construction, energy, consumer goods, and public sectors. Nasuni's corporate headquarters are located in Boston, Massachusetts, USA and the company delivers services to over 70 countries. For more information, visit www.nasuni.com . Social Media Links Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/nasuni LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasuni Blog: http://www.nasuni.com/blog Media Contacts US: Jessica Luhrman Waters Agency Phone: (210) 273 0914 Email: nasunipr@watersagency.com UK/Europe: Maria Loupa Waters Agency Phone: +44 (0)7591 004 738 Email: nasunipr@watersagency.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1841258/Nasuni_Logo_2015_High_Resolution_Logo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nasuni-launches-nasuni-iq-to-unlock-data-silos-for-ai-services-302062616.html The latest version of Acronis Cyber Protect enables easiest and fastest recovery after cyber security incidents and data loss SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland, Feb. 21, 2024, a leading provider of cyber protection, is proud to introduce the latest release of its flagship product - Acronis Cyber Protect 16. Acronis Cyber Protect delivers robust protection against cyber threats and unparalleled backup and recovery capabilities. This latest version establishes a new benchmark in easy and fast recovery after cyberattacks or data loss, especially for modern multi-site organizations. As technology advances, the necessity for an integrated cybersecurity and data protection solution fit for distributed organizations has become increasingly evident. Factors including the rise of remote work and a rapidly changing threat landscape have increased attack surfaces and raised larger data access and privacy concerns. Acronis Cyber Protect 16 introduces a new centralized dashboard that further improves and simplifies management with a single pane of glass, providing visibility and simplified management for the entire environment. Additional features of Acronis Cyber Protect 16 include: Cyberthreat Protection: Using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), proactively secure data, applications, and systems from advanced cyber-attacks including ransomware and other forms of malware. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), proactively secure data, applications, and systems from advanced cyber-attacks including ransomware and other forms of malware. Rapid Recovery: Reduced dependency on central IT support empowers users to initiate one-click recovery capabilities of distributed endpoints, including bare-metal recovery of physical workloads. Reduced dependency on central IT support empowers users to initiate one-click recovery capabilities of distributed endpoints, including bare-metal recovery of physical workloads. Reduced TCO: Broad, multi-generational OS support, enables vendor consolidation while ensuring comprehensive protection. Broad, multi-generational OS support, enables vendor consolidation while ensuring comprehensive protection. Simplified Management: Centralized management includes local autonomy and seamless integration with existing third-party tools to provide a unified view of backup and recovery operations along with broad, multi-generational OS support. Centralized management includes local autonomy and seamless integration with existing third-party tools to provide a unified view of backup and recovery operations along with broad, multi-generational OS support. Data Sovereignty: With the use of Acronis' extensive network of global data centers, users can ensure compliance and master regional data sovereignty laws, offering peace of mind and regulatory compliance. "The release of Acronis Cyber Protect 16 underscores our dedication to protect all data, applications, and systems," said Gaidar Magdanurov, President at Acronis. "In today's era of distributed environments, organizations require a cyber protection solution that provides reliable protection and fast and easy recovery after incidents. For many industries, like manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and retail, that can't afford any downtime, it is crucial for non-IT personnel to be able to accomplish successful recovery - and that is what Acronis Cyber Protect 16 is bringing - one-click recovery after cyberattacks or data loss." Acronis Cyber Protect 16 provides a unique integration of backup, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and remote endpoint management delivered via a single, cost-effective, efficient platform. With the ability to rapidly restore any computer without the need for IT intervention, specialized or industrial computing companies specifically in the operational technology (OT) industrial control systems (ICS) community, gain peace of mind and minimize costly downtime from potential outages. The integration of data protection, recovery capabilities, and advanced security functionality is designed to assure business continuity. Leading the charge in cybersecurity innovation, Acronis strives to continue to adapt and evolve while navigating the complexities of the digital world. "With Acronis Cyber Protect, we offer our clients the peace of mind that comes with a true cyber resilience solution," said Alan Conboy, Field CTO at Scale Computing. "We have complete confidence that if one of our customers suffers a cyber incident, we can get them back online in minutes. Acronis' single console seamlessly integrates comprehensive backup and recovery, endpoint management and cybersecurity to meet the needs of our broad range of customer environments, diverse OSs and organizational sizes. They are our go-to vendor to scale our business with world-class, affordable service offerings." To learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect 16, check out the latest blog here: https://www.acronis.com/en-us/blog/posts/a-new-benchmark-in-easy-and-fast-recovery-after-cyberattacks-or-data-loss For more information, please visit: https://www.acronis.com/en-us/products/cyber-protect-enterprise/ About Acronis Acronis unifies data protection and cybersecurityto deliver integrated, automated cyber protection that solves the safety, accessibility, privacy, authenticity, and security, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management solutions powered by AI. With advanced anti-malware powered by cutting-edge machine intelligence and blockchain-based data authentication technologies, Acronis protects any environment - from cloud to hybrid to on-premises - at a low and predictable cost. Acronis is a Swiss company, founded in Singapore. Celebrating two decades of innovation, Acronis has 1,800+ employees in 45 locations. Acronis Cyber Protect solution is available in 26 languages in over 150 countries and is used by 20,000+ service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses. Media Contact: Julia Carfagno Julia.Carfagno@acronis.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ae2d3044-26a0-4126-95d1-83b848eaa720 AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uhnder, the technology company on a mission to create the most advanced radar sensors for safe and automated mobility of both people and goods, announced today a $50 million Series D raise. The round was led by ACME Capital with participation from Magna, Qualcomm Ventures, El Camino Capital, Monta Vista Capital, Sagitta Ventures, and HT Capital. Uhnder has shipped over 200,000 of its next generation digital radar chips and has dozens of customer engagements in the automotive, industrial and defense sectors. This investment will enable Uhnder to materially expand its market presence. Hany Nada, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at ACME Capital, praised Uhnder's innovation, highlighting its unrivaled security and performance. "Uhnder produces the only radar in the world that is virtually impervious to spoofing by bad actors, boasting best-in-class performance and robustness against interference," Nada remarked. Echoing this sentiment, Boris Shulkin, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Information Officer at Magna International, commended Uhnder's breakthrough in radar technology. "Uhnder's single-chip 4D digital radar offers accurate scene representation with rich, high-resolution information previously unattainable. It's a proven System-on-a-Chip solution that's available to meet the high-performance perception needs in the market," Shulkin stated. Dr. Manju Hegde, CEO of Uhnder, expressed gratitude for the strong support from investors and the market. "We are excited with the positive response to our mass-market secure imaging radar chip and software, both of which meet automotive qualifications and in production," Dr. Hegde said. About Uhnder Founded in 2015 by Dr. Manju Hegde and Curtis Davis in Austin, Texas, Uhnder is at the forefront of providing cutting-edge solutions to the automotive, industrial, and defense sectors, boasting a diverse array of applications ranging from safety to convenience. To date, Uhnder has shipped over 200,000 radar chips to customers and has a robust pipeline of customers currently in the evaluation phase. This momentum underscores Uhnder's capability to meet the rigorous demands of the automotive, industrial, and defense sectors with its innovative radar solution. Uhnder is pioneering the shift from traditional analog radar systems to digital code modulation (DCM) technology. With its innovative approach and patent-pending technology, Uhnder aims to significantly enhance accuracy in both azimuth and elevation measurements, paving the way for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. Uhnder stands out as the sole provider of commercial digital radar chips and software, promising enhanced performance, reduced size, superior security, effective interference mitigation, and lower energy consumption. GridLife's AI-powered Analytics Give Utilities Early Warnings for Line Defect Monitoring Indicating Dangerous Faults Before They Occur ATLANTA, Ga. and LONCIN, Belgium, Feb. 21, 2024, the leading provider of grid monitoring and analytics solutions for optimal operation of the world's critical energy infrastructure, is proud to announce the latest version of its asset health monitoring product suite, Ampacimon GridLife . The suite is the next generation of Ampacimon's proven, comprehensive asset grid health monitoring software and analytics solutions. With a 96% accuracy rate, Ampacimon GridLife is a sensor-agnostic software platform that provides insights into grid asset health, thereby enabling predictive maintenance and preventing electric grid outages before they occur without physical cable inspections. With Ampacimon GridLife, the world's energy grid operators experience fewer unplanned grid failures, extending the life of existing assets and improving power delivery, which leads to greater customer satisfaction. Historically, utilities have relied on manual inspections by engineers, working long hours and driving long distances back and forth to monitor cables and substations for problem areas. Ampacimon is changing and challenging that norm by offering a fully automated software solution. Ampacimon GridLife monitors grid cable health in real-time and uses AI to identify dangerous faults before they occur. With GridLife, utilities take the need for field engineers out of the equation. "We are disrupting the market by challenging traditional service mentalities that strain the electric grid. Where others have tried and failed to reduce reliance on manual labor to inspect thousands upon thousands of distribution cables, we have succeeded," says Stephan Heberer, CEO of Ampacimon. "GridLife is a highly accurate sensor-agnostic software solution that provides predictive maintenance to find and stop failures before they occur. Peer-reviewed field and lab tests prove our solution has a 96% accuracy rate. We've set the standard for the industry." Ampacimon GridLife extends a partial discharge monitoring solution to medium voltage lines, medium voltage switchgear and others, ushering in a new era of efficient asset management within the industry. The solution provides several benefits, including the reduction of waste, improving reliability, and allowing for higher transmissions from renewable energy sources. Utilities no longer need to rely only on manual inspections of equipment that could span thousands of miles. With over a decade of industry-leading partial discharge data, Ampacimon offers a complete, automated solution that can pinpoint the exact location of any defect in electrical systems, creating invaluable data that can be used to make more informed decisions regarding asset repair or replacement, resource allocation, and reducing unexpected failures or outages. Pulling from a decade of data, Ampacimon's technology leads the industry in partial discharge data quality, allowing it to filter out noise to create meaningful alerts and notifications with more accurate results compared to other available technologies. Stephan Heberer continues: "For permanent surveillance of insulation systems on GIS, transformers, rotating machines, motors, cables, or other high voltage equipment, proactive partial discharge monitoring systems are a must. Our latest solution has spurred a paradigm shift that is challenging the status quo. Ampacimon is proud to be at the forefront of the market, changing the way the industry approaches the management and maintenance of the world's aging electric grid." About Ampacimon: Ampacimon is the global leader in transmission and distribution electricity grid optimization solutions. Its solutions increase the capacity of existing transmission and distribution systems by as much as 40%, monitor critical assets, analyze grid health conditions, and identify mechanical and electrical faults. Its data-driven solutions enable grid operators to accelerate renewables integration and the transition to clean energy. Ampacimon's patented measurement systems and advanced analytics enable operators to maximize the capacity of grid assets, optimize maintenance priorities, and prioritize grid modernization investments. Its solutions include GridVisor DLR, GridBoost AAR, and GridLife partial discharge monitoring. Ampacimon solutions make it possible for grid operators to achieve FERC 881 compliance in the U.S., NERC's FAC-008 data-intensive standard to ensure facility ratings and other important regulatory requirements around the globe. Headquartered in the US and Belgium with offices in Spain, Ampacimon has a global presence with systems installed in most tier-one transmission and distribution grids worldwide. To learn more, visit www.ampacimon.com GridLife, GridVisor and GridBoost are registered trademarks of Ampacimon and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners. Contact: media@ktcmarketingandpr.com 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 multi-million-dollar partnership will enable widespread adoption of AI and digital solutions across insurance, banking, shipping, and manufacturing industries LTIMindtree [NSE: LTIM, BSE: 540005], a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Eurolife FFH, a leading insurance company in Athens, Greece powered by Fairfax Digital Services, to establish first-of-its-kind Gen AI and Digital Hub in Athens and dedicated facilities in Poland, Europe and Mumbai, India. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220139123/en/ LTIMindtree and Eurolife FFH sign MoU to setup GenAl and digital hubs in India and Europe. In the picture left to right Alexandros Sarrigeorgiou, Chairman CEO, Eurolife FFH Insurance Group, Sanjay Tugnait, President Chief Executive Officer, Fairfax Digital Services, Sudhir Chaturvedi, President, and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree at the residence of Greek Ambassador in Delhi. (Photo: Business Wire) The MoU was signed by Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree, Alexandros Sarrigeorgiou, Chairman CEO, Eurolife FFH Insurance Group and Sanjay Tugnait, President Chief Executive Officer, Fairfax Digital Services, in the presence of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister of Greece at the residence of Greek Ambassador in Delhi. This announcement also aligns with the Government of India's newly introduced "Anusandhan" scheme, aimed at catalyzing innovation and research within the technology and startup ecosystem. As a part of this association, Eurolife FFH will set up Generative AI and Digital Hub in Athens to develop innovative solutions for insurance businesses in Greece and LTIMindtree will provide deep domain expertise and support from its dedicated facilities in Poland and Mumbai. Professionals from both the companies will jointly undergo specialized training in Generative AI and Digital Transformation to develop cutting edge products and services that will enhance customer experience and operational efficiency for businesses across insurance, banking, shipping, and manufacturing industries. Alexandros Sarrigeorgiou, CEO of Eurolife FFH, said, "This partnership is aligned with our ambition of leveraging the power of advanced technology to deliver innovation for our customers and partners. Our goal is to innovate; specifically in the insurance space, and push boundaries to create solutions that meet evolving needs of customers across various other industries. This collaboration is a step towards a future where Gen AI and digital innovation will drive business success and enhance customers' experience." Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree, said, "Our collaboration with Eurolife FFH forms a crucial part of our strategic roadmap, aimed at driving transformative growth for businesses by unlocking the true potential of Gen AI. By merging LTIMindtree's innovation capabilities with Eurolife FFH's domain expertise, we are staging a platform for an accelerated adoption of new technologies to address the industry's most pressing challenges, while establishing new benchmarks in both domestic and international markets." Sanjay Tugnait, President, and CEO of Fairfax Digital Services, said, "As Greece and India unite in establishing a Gen AI and Digital Hub, our collaboration transcends borders and algorithms. Together, we engineer a convergence of technological prowess, laying the foundations for creating leading edge industry solutions to enable revenue generation and cost optimization for businesses with a focus on enhancing customer experience. This partnership exemplifies the fusion of diverse cultures and shared visions, which will shape the future landscape of artificial intelligence and digital transformation." About LTIMindtree: LTIMindtree is a global technology consulting and digital solutions company that enables enterprises across industries to reimagine business models, accelerate innovation, and maximize growth by harnessing digital technologies. As a digital transformation partner to more than 700 clients, LTIMindtree brings extensive domain and technology expertise to help drive superior competitive differentiation, customer experiences, and business outcomes in a converging world. Powered by 82,000+ talented and entrepreneurial professionals across more than 30 countries, LTIMindtree a Larsen Toubro Group company combines the industry-acclaimed strengths of erstwhile Larsen and Toubro Infotech and Mindtree in solving the most complex business challenges and delivering transformation at scale. For more information, please visit https://www.ltimindtree.com/. About Eurolife FFH: Eurolife FFH aspires to be right by the people, designing insurance products that respond to every need they have. Member of Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd., it is one of the top organizations in the Greek insurance sector. It offers integrated insurance solutions for individuals and companies that cover every aspect of life and business activity. Eurolife FFH has a broad network of insurance partners all over the country and works with them closely, in order to support its customers so that they can achieve more every day. Eurolife FFH aims to be a catalyst for positive change not only through its insurance products and services, but also through important initiatives that contribute to sustainable development. Having people in the epicentre, it designs and supports purposeful actions that focus on low birth rate and quality of life in remote areas, gender equality and inclusion, culture, entrepreneurship, etc. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220139123/en/ Contacts: Media ContactShambhavi Revandkar shambhavi.revandkar@ltimindtree.com Media ContactEleni Lamboura elamboura@eurolife.gr New research explores how enterprises use a data foundation layer for both intelligence and activation, and how this layer is undergoing transformation NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new white paper released today from Winterberry Group, a strategic advisory consultancy, explores the business and economic considerations of building an enterprise "data layer" to support the integration, management and activation of data and identity. "Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure (February 2024)" documents the components of this layer inside many organizations, and how they are changing - both in Europe and North America. According to Winterberry Group, in the United States alone, $27 billion will be spent in 2024 on data, data services and data infrastructure to support an estimated $270 billion in U.S. media buying across data-driven channels. Data spend to support not just these channels - but the enterprise decision-making behind media and marketing selection - is projected to rise to more than $33 billion by 2027, the Company reports. The paper explores core solutions in the data layer, including: master data management; identity graphs; data clean rooms; data lakes; customer data platforms; analytic data environments, data warehouses; customer relationship management platforms; and LLM [large language models] data warehouses. U.S. Marketing Data, Data Services and Data Infrastructure Spending Projections, 2024-27. Source: Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024. The paper is the culmination of insights derived from more than 60 expert interviewees in the advertising, marketing, publishing, regulatory, legal and agency sectors, conducted between October 2023 and February 2024. The interviews were supplemented by 200 respondents across the United States, United Kingdom, France and Germany, who answered a comprehensive survey. "Several market forces are transforming how enterprises responsibly collect and use data for marketing activation," said Michael Harrison, managing partner, Winterberry Group, and a co-author of the research. "Increased privacy regulation, a rapid shift toward digital-centric performance media, and the evolution of tech driven by machine and learning and generative AI [artificial intelligence] are helping to build a centralized data infrastructure that can support many business use cases - involving insights, activation, optimization and measurement. We're seeing brands and companies embracing this layer as foundational." Harrison noted that the data layer directly supports two other layers that comprise marketing and advertising technology ecosystems today: the intelligence layer, which supports deriving insights to inform decision-making in strategy; and the activation layer, where inbound and outbound communications channels reach customers and prospects - and are increasingly driven by both data and analytics. "Getting it right, understanding how to source, unify, parse and stage the data, is vital to successful business outcomes," he said. The paper also details some of the transformation underway in the current "omnichannel era" of marketing within and about the data layer: A shift toward cloud-based environments , to help manage scalability, flexibility, and aspects of cost-efficiency. Hybrid hosting approaches, which combine on-premises and cloud environments, are gaining traction, enabling optimized performance while ensuring robust data security and privacy measures; , to help manage scalability, flexibility, and aspects of cost-efficiency. Hybrid hosting approaches, which combine on-premises and cloud environments, are gaining traction, enabling optimized performance while ensuring robust data security and privacy measures; The design and establishment of persistent first-party identity graphs to link proprietary PII [personally identifiable information] data with third-party assets, enriching customer insights and personalization capabilities; Marketing Organizations' Intent to Invest in Data Services, 2024. Source: Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024. The evolution of Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) from "systems of record" to unified intelligence and data management platforms capable of integrating persistent and non-persistent identifiers to support more relevant marketing efforts; capable of integrating persistent and non-persistent identifiers to support more relevant marketing efforts; Growing demand for Data Clean Rooms (DCRs) to enable collaboration within and across brands and media providers for targeted planning, analysis and measurement in a more secure, privacy-safe environment. within and across brands and media providers for targeted planning, analysis and measurement in a more secure, privacy-safe environment. Addressing challenges in content and audience data adoption and integration, particularly structured and unstructured data residing in digital asset and content management platforms . These efforts support the development of Large Language Models (LLMs) within the intelligence layer, enhancing data-driven insights and decision-making processes. The Winterberry Group research is commissioned by numerous data and adtech/martech companies: LiveRamp, Habu, Treasure Data, mParticle, Acxiom and Aqfer. "Data is critical to not only know customers, but deeply understand them across the many enterprise touchpoints and devices, screens, and browsers they engage with," said Daniella Harkins, SVP of product GTM, LiveRamp. "As signal loss drives investment in first-party data, enterprises must extend the value of that data and enhance their identity strategies through strategic partnerships that unlock new insights driven by new second and third-party data relationships." "As the Winterberry research highlights, privacy-enhancing technologies such as clean rooms are now essential for ethical data-driven collaboration," said Matt Kilmartin, co-founder & CEO, Habu. "It's imperative for companies to possess flexible tools designed so both technical and business users can achieve any use case, driving business growth efficiently. And, these tools should be interoperable, empowering organizations to collaborate and scale with any partner, regardless of the cloud platform from which their data resides." "In the age of hyper-personalization and artificial intelligence, it's never been more important to get your data layer right as Winterberry Group highlights in its research. We believe a CDP that brings together data and decisioning is the future-proof customer data foundation that global enterprises need to orchestrate enriched customer experiences and drive profitable growth," said Karl Wirth, chief product & technology officer, Treasure Data. "We're experiencing a major platform shift right now as (predictive) AI is multiplying the value that can be extracted from customer data," said Michael Katz, CEO, mParticle. "As such, the benefit of the CDP is evolving from creating operational efficiency via simplifying martech integrations to impacting business outcomes through better decisioning at scale. While every vendor will have some sort of AI offering, it's important to look for a diverse set of ML pipelines to create the most surface area for generating business outcomes." "Winterberry's report underscores the rapid evolution of marketing data, driven primarily by expanding digital channels, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements," said Dana Goff, SVP and head of industry and solution strategy at Acxiom. "The findings reaffirm what we've long recognized at Acxiom - these changes, while challenging, offer opportunities for growth and innovation. To capitalize on this potential and thrive in a data-driven future, brands must adopt cloud-native, privacy-compliant data management and analytics solutions. Establishing a robust data strategy, supported by a strong foundation, is the path forward for businesses aiming for sustained market success in the digital era." Results of the full study, as a PDF, are available for download (https://winterberrygroup.com/demystifying-the-data-layer-feb2024) from Winterberry Group. ABOUT WINTERBERRY GROUP Winterberry Group is a strategic consultancy specializing in the intersecting disciplines of advertising, marketing, data, technology and commerce. We collaborate with stakeholders across the advertising and marketing ecosystem-service providers, technology developers, media companies, brands and investor groups-to identify and activate growth opportunities that drive the creation of real and lasting value. We bring decades of experience and deep industry, operational and M&A expertise that bridges strategic development and tactical execution-driving unprecedented speed-to-action. And through our highly collaborative approach, we enable knowledge transfer and actionability, giving our clients a competitive edge and powering growth in performance, team engagement and shareholder value. Learn more at https://winterberrygroup.com (https://winterberrygroup.com/). [Editor's Note: Editorial members of the media may request a full copy of the research by reaching out to Chet Dalzell, chet.dalzell@yahoo.com (mailto:chet.dalzell@yahoo.com). Selected charts, findings and figures from the study may be published, sourcing "Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024."] Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37c8a810-a461-4916-a02e-09324bc9fced (https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37c8a810-a461-4916-a02e-09324bc9fced)https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/512083f9-1593-4d54-b011-11f8f53193e3 (https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/512083f9-1593-4d54-b011-11f8f53193e3) - The Company will share new findings from its proprietary diagnostic technology that reinforce potential to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and treatment - Sunbird Bio, a biotechnology company developing proprietary protein- and blood-based technologies to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and early-stage cancer, today announced that new data from a study evaluating its APEX diagnostic platform in Alzheimer's disease will be presented at the upcoming AD/PD 2024 International Conference on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease, taking place March 5-9, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. "We look forward to sharing the latest data from ongoing studies of our APEX platform at this year's AD/PD conference," said John McDonough, executive chair and CEO of Sunbird Bio. "The increasing availability of treatments for Alzheimer's disease has amplified the need for improved diagnostics that will help physicians diagnose and treat patients much earlier. Our latest findings reinforce the potential of our APEX technology to overcome the inaccessibility, invasiveness and lack of reliability associated with today's diagnostic tests." APEX, Sunbird Bio's lead technology platform, is uniquely capable of detecting very low levels of nanoscale, disease-specific protein states in blood with high accuracy. Data published previously in Nature Communications demonstrated that the APEX platform can accurately detect amyloid beta (A) molecules in the blood and thus signal the presence of Alzheimer's disease. Following are details about the APEX poster presentation at AD/PD 2024: Title: Blood-Based Measurement of Circulating Prefibrillar Amyloid Biomarker Differentiates PET Verified Brain Amyloid Positivity Status in AD Cohort Blood-Based Measurement of Circulating Prefibrillar Amyloid Biomarker Differentiates PET Verified Brain Amyloid Positivity Status in AD Cohort Presenter: Mario Morken, Vice President, Head of Business Development Mario Morken, Vice President, Head of Business Development Theme A: B-Amyloid Diseases A04.G. Imaging, Biomarkers, Diagnostics: Csf, Blood, Body Fluid Biomarkers B-Amyloid Diseases A04.G. Imaging, Biomarkers, Diagnostics: Csf, Blood, Body Fluid Biomarkers Date and Time: Friday, March 8, 2024, 9:00AM WET Saturday, March 9, 2024, 6:00PM WET About Sunbird Bio Sunbird Bio is a biotechnology company developing proprietary protein- and blood-based diagnostic tests that provide unprecedented insights to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and early-stage cancer. Sunbird's innovative technologies uniquely detect the property and activity of proteins to empower researchers and clinicians with actionable information that is not available or accessible from current tests. Sunbird Bio's unparalleled leadership in protein-based diagnostics positions the company to become a global leader in the field, addressing significant research and clinical gaps, and serving multiple, sizable markets. For more information, please visit sunbirdbio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221795047/en/ Contacts: Media Contact Laura Morgan Sam Brown, Inc. 951.333.9110 lauramorgan@sambrown.com National Grid BOONVILLE, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / National Grid has announced a $20,000 corporate donation to support an employee-led fundraising campaign to support the Boonville community. Crews working on the southern section of the Smart Path Connect transmission corridor in Lewis and Oneida counties, a National Grid project, have used Boonville as their base of operation during construction. The contractor employees embarked on a grassroots fundraising campaign at the holidays to make a positive impact on the Boonville community and many of their firms provided matching donations to support their effort. National Grid added a corporate contribution to bring the total donation to more than $35,000. Contracted firms working on Smart Path Connect include Agile Sourcing Partners, Burns & McDonnell, C.T. Male Associates, O'Connell Electric Co. Inc. of Syracuse, Supreme Industries, Three Phase Line Construction Inc., and Tri-State Drilling. "Smart Path Connect is one of the largest transmission projects in our state's history," said Mark Harbaugh, National Grid's vice president for project management and construction, who oversees the company's Smart Path Connect work. "While it's an important and transformative project, we felt there was something more we could do to thank the Boonville community for welcoming these teams into their village and their lives during construction." "National Grid, through its Project C community initiative, wants to do its part in improving the places where we live and work," said Alberto Bianchetti, the company's regional director of customer and community engagement. "This gift aligns with Project C's commitments for neighborhood development, community investment and social equity." National Grid's donation will be earmarked for two projects: renovations at Boonville's Erwin Park and support services from Matthew's Place, a nonprofit in the Oneida county village. Improvements to Erwin Park in the village of Boonville include upgraded components to the playground area, as well as the improvements to restroom facilities to make them accessible to individuals with disabilities. Village of Boonville employees and the Municipal Commission of Boonville will provide in-kind services to complete the project. "Thank you to National Grid for your generous contribution to Erwin Park, and your continued positive presence in our community," said Village of Boonville Mayor Judith Dellerba. "The new facility will be accessible to those who utilize the amenities at Erwin Park as well as those traveling along the Route 12 corridor. Erwin Park is considered to be our village gem with many new and exciting things happening in and around the park in the next few years." Matthew's Place, a thrift store and food pantry on Main Street in the village, will receive funds to provide perishable food items, clothing, and emergency utility and crisis assistance for residents in the area. "This donation will allow us to increase our services to area individuals and families with needed assistance," said Janice Brooks, store manager for Matthew's Place. "We want to express our deepest appreciation to all of the participating companies for their thoughtfulness and generosity to the Boonville community." Other organizations receiving support from the employee-led campaign include Adirondack High School, the Wish Upon a Star Christmas Gift program, and Sunset Nursing Home. Smart Path Connect is a multi-phase portfolio of projects with the New York Power Authority that includes the rebuild of more than 100 miles of transmission lines in the Mohawk Valley and Northern New York and the upgrade of multiple substations. National Grid is responsible for the project's Southern Alignment, a 55-mile section of the project between the village of Croghan and the town of Marcy. When completed in 2025, Smart Path Connect will allow for increased power transfer capacity, enable the flow of more renewable energy, and enhance reliability and resiliency of the state power grid. About National Grid National Grid (NYSE:NGG) is an electricity, natural gas, and clean energy delivery company serving more than 20 million people through our networks in New York and Massachusetts. National Grid is focused on building a smarter, stronger, cleaner energy future - transforming our networks with more reliable and resilient energy solutions to meet state climate goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, please visit our website, follow us on X (formerly Twitter), watch us on YouTube, like us on Facebook and find us on Instagram. Media Contacts Jared Paventi Syracuse (Central NY) (315) 427-1092 Email Matthew's Place in Boonville View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from National Grid on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: National Grid Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/national-grid Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: National Grid View the original press release on accesswire.com Papua New Guinea's Mining Resource Authority has approved the renewal of the Yandera Copper Project's License EL 1335 through November 19, 2025. Freeport Resources is planning to commence work towards a Definitive Feasibility Study and accelerate discussions with potential strategic partners. Freeport continues its commitment to the landowners and communities of Yandera, and the people of Papua New Guinea. Demand for copper is undergoing an unprecedented structural change driven by the global energy transition, with mined copper supply now forecast to enter a deficit in 2024. Proximity to Asia, the world's largest copper refiner and consumer, positions the Yandera Copper Project as an attractive potential long-term source of copper supply. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Freeport Resources Inc. (TSXV: FRI) (OTCQB: FEERF) (FSE: 4XH) ("Freeport Resources" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to the Company's news release of December 11, 2023, Papua New Guinea's outgoing Minister for Mining, the Honourable Sir Ano Pala, approved the renewal of the Yandera Copper Project's Exploration License 1335 ("EL") through November 19, 2025, in accordance with the regulatory processes prescribed by the Papua New Guinea ("PNG") Mining Act. "We are pleased to have successfully completed the exploration license renewal process for another two year renewal period, and would like to thank the Mining Advisory Council and the Government of PNG for their dedication in advancing large-scale resource projects such as Yandera Copper," commented Dr. Nathan Chutas, Senior Vice-President of Operations for Freeport Resources. "These Exploration Licenses are typically issued many months or more in arrears so this renewal of Yandera Copper Project's Exploration License clearly demonstrates the increasing commitment of the Government of PNG to building strong, working relationships with international mineral exploration and development companies such as Freeport Resources. We would also like to congratulate PNG's newly appointed Mining Minister, the Honourable Muguwa Dilu, who was sworn in to his new position on January 18th, 2024," said Dr. Chutas, who continued, "Over USD $200 million has been expended on the project since 2005, culminating in a comprehensive 2017 Pre-Feasibility Study delineating one of the world's largest undeveloped copper resources.* With the extension of the exploration license to November 2025, we are excited to finally have the visibility going forward that we have lacked since Freeport took over the project. We can now commence to plan work programs on the Definitive Feasibility Study and continue discussions with potential strategic partners for development of the mine." Appointment to Mining Advisory Council of PNG Freeport Resources would also like to announce that Tobias Kulang Thomas, a member of the Company's Advisory Board, has been appointed to the Mining Advisory Council of PNG. The Mining Advisory Council is an independent committee established under PNG's Mining Act comprised of representatives of the Mining Resources Authority, PNG's governing regulatory body, and senior representatives of the mining industry. The Mining Advisory Council reviews and deliberates on the Exploration License and Special Mining Lease application processes and makes final recommendations to the Minister for Mining. Tobias Kulang Thomas was nominated as a member of the Mining Advisory Council by the Honourable Muguwa Dilu, PNG's new Minister for Mining. Yandera - Strategic Review Freeport Resources' wholly-owned Yandera Copper Project is located in the highly prolific PNG Orogenic Belt, the same geological arc as some of the world's largest gold and copper deposits including Grasberg, Frieda River, Porgera, Lihir, Wafi-Golpu and Kainantu. Yandera is a project of strategic national interest in PNG and has the potential to become one of the country's most significant copper mines. The project's proximity to Asia, the world's largest copper refiner and consumer, positions Yandera as an attractive potential long-term source of copper supply. The renewed license EL 1335 covers a 245.5 square kilometer ("km") tenement comprising the Yandera Project. Approximately USD $200 million in exploration and development expenditures have been spent on EL 1335 since 2005. Work completed and studies funded to date include approximately 154,600 meters of exploration drilling, the vast majority of which has focused on the Yandera Central deposit, as well as scoping studies, engineering studies, environmental studies, the 2017 Pre-Feasibility Study*, and infrastructure-related studies. The Preliminary Feasibility Study titled, Independent Technical Report on the Yandera Project - Pre-Feasibility Study*, prepared by Worley Parsons, with an effective date of November 27, 2017, estimated a historical open-pit, Measured and Indicated resources of 728 million tonnes grading 0.39% copper equivalent. Freeport Resources has initiated a strategic review process aimed at maximizing the value of the Yandera Copper Project which the Company believes is significantly undervalued based on historical expenditures, current copper prices and the potential for resource expansion. * Independent Technical Report on the Yandera Project - Pre-Feasibility Study, prepared for Era Resources Inc. and dated effective November 27, 2017. The study was prepared prior to the Company acquiring an interest in the Yandera Project, and is derived from historical estimates which the Company is not treating as current. This information is intended to provide readers with context on historical analysis conducted on the Yandera Project, however the Company cautions that a qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify any historical estimates in respect of the Yandera Project as current and any analysis conducted by previous owners of the Project may rely upon assumptions which are no longer reasonable or accurate in the context of the current market. Yandera - Feasibility Study The renewal of EL 1335, through November 19, 2025, allows Freeport Resources to commence work on a Definitive Feasibility Study to advance the Yandera Copper Project toward a Final Investment Decision. Concurrent with the Definitive Feasibility Study program, Freeport Resources has begun discussions with key international strategic investors and prospective partners for development of the Yandera Copper Project. Demand for copper is forecast to undergo unprecedented structural change driven by the global energy transition with mined copper supply forecast to enter a deficit position starting as early as 2025 (see Copper Supply and Demand Imbalance Chart below). Copper Supply and Demand Imbalance Forecast Copper Supply and Demand Imbalance Chart To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5826/198640_freeportfigure1.jpg The Definitive Feasibility Study will build on earlier work undertaken with local and regional communities to determine opportunities to achieve mutually beneficial partnerships and sustainable long-term social benefits related to job creation, indigenous advancement, health and wellness, environment, education and community development. Freeport Resources is also planning a wider exploration program of porphyry copper targets within the largely underexplored 245.5 square kilometer land package. Freeport and the Community The Yandera Copper Project is 95-km southwest of the capital city of Madang Province and 235-km to the northwest of Lae which is the largest port city in PNG and an important industrial center. As one of the largest undeveloped copper resources* in the world, the Yandera Project has the potential to support communities and create jobs along the Yandera Corridor. The Company anticipates the potential economic influence of the Yandera Copper Project could span 5 provinces and create wealth for generations including, but not limited to, strategic road and highway building, power generation and related infrastructure. The landowners and communities of Yandera are stakeholders in the Yandera Project. The overwhelming community support that the Company received at the Warden's Hearing held during the summer of 2023, demonstrated the level of commitment the people of Yandera have for the project. Freeport is also firmly committed to advancing the project and continuing support of the community. The Company expects to continue to develop initiatives to be an active and visible presence in the Community. Qualified Person Dr. Nathan Chutas, PhD, CPG, Senior Vice-President of Operations for Freeport Resources, is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101. Dr. Chutas has reviewed and approved the technical content in this announcement. About Freeport Resources Inc. Freeport Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company with a primary focus on advancing the development of the Yandera copper-gold-molybdenum project, located in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea. The Yandera project is one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits in the world covering approximately 245.5 square kilometers. Please visit www.freeportresources.com or contact the email address below for more information. On behalf of the Board, Freeport Resources Inc. Gord Friesen, Chief Executive Officer T. (236) 334-1660 E. gord@freeportresources.com www.freeportresources.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule", "intends" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198640 SOURCE: Freeport Resources Inc. New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Heyloa, a holistic and alternative wellness platform, is conducting another transformative retreat for women in Sedona, April 2024. Loa Blasucci, the founder of Heyloa, will lead the three-day retreat, conducting comprehensive yoga and energy medicine exercises. Loa Blasucci Sedona provides an idyllic setting for this transformative retreat in the heart of Red Rock Country. Known for its energy vortexes, Sedona is believed to be an environment conducive to self-discovery, meditation, emotional release, and spiritual growth. Participants will have a chance to immerse themselves in the majesty of sandstone formations, Red Rock cliffs, and scenic hiking trails, while performing alternative wellness exercises at the most serene spots. "Sometimes you need to stop sawing and sharpen the saw. This immersive experience is designed to do exactly that. It can empower women to rejuvenate their minds, body, and spirit. It can be a journey of self-discovery and renewal against the breathtaking backdrop of Sedona's Red Rock Country," says Loa. Heyloa retreat will conduct its onsite meetings at The Wilde Resort. However, they can book any other accommodation that suits them best. Limited spaces for this experience are available, and registration is now open. The retreat will be held from 18th April to 20th April, 2024. About Heyloa: Heyloa is an online, alternative wellness platform. Founded by Loa Blasucci, a versatile holistic health expert, the platform offers several different courses targeted at improving women's physical and emotional health to alternate methods. Through Loa's diverse range of expertise as a nutritionist, energy medicine practitioner, and personal trainer, Heyloa works to empower women globally, focusing on body healing and anxiety reduction for a more youthful outlook. Central to the platform's courses is the Reverse Aging Masterclass, a combination of traditional wisdom and modern insights. Contact Information: Loa Blasucci Email: christine.heyloa@gmail.com Website: https://www.heyloa.com/ Event: https://www.heyloa.com/sedona-retreat-for-women Registration: https://www.heyloa.com/login To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/194592 SOURCE: SMG Media Group PRAGUE, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The SPV AMBER ENERGY, part of Czech entrepreneur Zdenek Sobotka's SOLEK Holding group, has emerged as one of the winners of the auction to supply of utility scale battery energy storage facilities in Greece. In this second national auction, organized by Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) of Greece, SOLEK secured a 18MW/36MWh project. This significant success will enable SOLEK to expand its presence in the renewable energy sector and offer innovative energy storage solutions in Greece. This is SOLEK's first energy project awarded in an auction in Greece. It places the company among the major energy players contributing to the development of sustainable energy in Europe and around the world. "The 18 MW battery energy storage project not only strengthens our renewable energy portfolio, but also our ability to successfully compete on the international energy market. We look to replicate this success in other countries in the future. In Europe, we are targeting Cyprus, Romania and the Czech Republic, for example," said Zdenek Sobotka, owner and founder of SOLEK Holding. Greece, with support from the EU's Modernization Fund, is auctioning 1GW of battery with the aim of assuring stability and flexibility in the energy grid, and creating the conditions for the transition to renewable energy sources. This was the country's second major auction, organized by Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) of Greece, and this time 11 projects from 7 bidders were successful. The total allocated capacity was 300 MW. One of the deciding criteria was the price offered per megawatt of capacity per year, with an average bid price of 47,680. In 2022, the EU approved the Greek government's plan to spend 341 million on 900 MW of energy storage capacity. On 20 May 2023, the Greek Government issued the Ministerial Decision regarding the energy storage support scheme, for a total capacity of 1,000 megawatts split in three separate auctions of 400, 300 and 300 MW, respectively. State support takes the form of investment subsidies for projects during construction, followed by annual support during the first 10 years of operation. In the case of this second auction, the investment (capital expenditure) support stood at 100,000 per megawatt, half the amount of the previous auction. By increasing its available electricity storage capacity, Greece will be ready for a future in which renewables form the backbone of the energy mix. "Greece is becoming one of the leaders in the fight against climate change thanks to its efforts to decarbonise its energy sector, by taking advantages of its strategic position and huge renewable potential in solar and wind," added Gregoris Marinakis Regional Manager Greece and Cyprus at SOLEK. SOLEK Holding is a leading energy company engaged in the design, construction and operation of solar power plants in Europe and Latin America. In particular, it operates in Chile, where it manages nearly 40 photovoltaic power plants with a total capacity of over 250 MW. The Group is now focusing on new and promising areas such as the development of floating PV plants, agrovoltaics and battery energy storage. The SOLEK Group as a whole had 274 MW connected at the end of 2023, and currently has 212 MW of solar power plants under construction. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344509/Solek_Holding_SE.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zdenk-sobotkas-solek-successful-in-the-second-greece-storage-auction-302067488.html Amsterdam, the Netherlands--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - BrightFunded, a Leading Trading Evaluation Firm, is proud to announce the launch of its Proprietary Backend Dashboard Technology. This marks a significant milestone in its pursuit of technological independence and offering unparalleled trading conditions. BrightFunded provides its customers with low spreads and commissions, no swap fees, and excellent execution, thereby reinforcing BrightFunded's commitment to innovation and excellence in customer service. BrightFunded has significantly impacted the Trading Evaluation Industry by launching its latest In-House Backend Dashboard Technology. In a daring departure from conventional practices, the Dutch company has created its own backend system instead of partnering with external tech providers. This strategic move highlights BrightFunded's commitment to independence and a focus on long-term value rather than short-term gains. Operational independence is a fundamental pillar of BrightFunded's strategy and vision, with the self-sufficient technology fully aligning with this objective. Before its launch six months ago, the technology underwent rigorous testing by global customers. Having completed the first six exceptionally successful months since going live, this milestone signifies the conclusion of an intensive development phase where in-house expertise and innovation were at the forefront. Jelle Dijkstra, the CEO of BrightFunded, explained that the decision to develop their Backend Dashboard Technology in-house was deliberate. The aim was establishing BrightFunded as an independent firm within the Trading Evaluation Industry. This technology is not merely a tool but a reflection of the company's values, aspiring to create a premier ecosystem characterized by freedom, control, and minimized risk. It enables customers to enjoy improved trading conditions and enhanced empowerment About BrightFunded BrightFunded is a Trading Evaluation Firm headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, specializing in offering the best trading conditions to its customers. The firm is renowned for its customer-centric approach, providing access to various trading instruments and a commitment to technological innovation. BrightFunded's In-House Backend Dashboard Technology exemplifies its investment in delivering superior trading experiences, reinforcing its position as an industry pioneer. Contact: Jelle Dijkstra, CEO E: support@brightfunded.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198434 SOURCE: BrightFunded B.V. Ribbon Cutting by Royal Air Force Chief of Staff Lone Star Analysis Ltd., a trusted provider of leading-edge predictive and prescriptive analytics and Evolved AI, has expanded its presence in the U.K., opening its new headquarters in Lincoln, England. This new space was necessitated by the Lone Star's rapid growth in the U.K. and enhances the company's capacity to serve customers in the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Middle East. The occasion was marked by a formal ribbon cutting ceremony. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221055598/en/ Steve Roemerman, CEO of Lone Star Aerospace Inc, the US affiliate of Lone Star Analysis Ltd, Air Vice-Marshal (Retd) Gary Waterfall, CBE DL and Group Captain (Retd) Robin Adlam, Managing Director of Lone Star Analysis Ltd. (Photo: Business Wire) Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, KCB ADC FREng, Chief of Air Staff, officially opened the new facility, joined by other members of the Royal Air Force and guests from the Lincoln area. "We are very pleased to be located in the Lincoln Science and Innovation Park (LSIP)," said Group Captain (Retd) Robin Adlam, Managing Director of Lone Star Analysis Ltd. "The location, as a constituent part of the LSIP, adjacent to the University of Lincoln, is a perfect combination. Not only has the LSIP community embraced our arrival, with support from the LSIP staff and associated LSIP companies, the University of Lincoln is proving to be an invaluable resource. And having a base in Lincoln geographically positions us to support our key RAF customers." The company plans to leverage the new Lincoln site to expand offerings in AI and solutions for customers outside the defence community, in addition to current offerings in Defence and Energy. While the company plans to keep its current London offices, the Lincoln headquarters will be the company's targeted location for growth and new jobs in the U.K. "It has been extremely rewarding to watch the Lone Star Analysis Ltd. team grow," said Air Vice-Marshal (Retd) Gary Waterfall, CBE DL. "They have engaged with a wide range of customers and are already serving customers outside the U.K." Waterfall, who also serves as a director for the firm, went on to say, "Enhancing value for money within the MoD, and assisting an optimisation of fleets during these operationally testing times are our immediate focus, all whilst extending the U.K.'s reach abroad." "Lone Star Analysis Ltd. has been a gratifying launch," said Steve Roemerman, CEO of Lone Star Aerospace Inc, the U.S. affiliate of Lone Star Analysis Ltd. "We are already seeing innovations in the U.K., especially around the health sector, which we hope to export to the U.S. We are thrilled with the company's rapid growth in such a short span of time." Moving Lone Star's headquarters to the Alchemy building in Lincoln SCIP aligns with the company's strategic expansion in other locations, including Patuxent River, Maryland; Dayton, Ohio; and Oslo, Norway. To learn more about Lone Star Analysis, visit https://lone-star.uk/. About Lone Star Analysis Lone Star Analysis provides applied decision intelligence and engineering solutions. We harness predictive and prescriptive analytics, Evolved Artificial Intelligence, and inherent knowledge to enhance innovation, create economic strength, and make the world safer. Lone Star delivers actionable answers to complex problems in the Aerospace Defense Industry, Military Services, the Intelligence Community, and for our International Allies. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221055598/en/ Contacts: Ron Stein ron.stein@modop.com +1 908-803-2789 TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / In Black Book Research's annual client experience performance ratings for enterprise behavioral health EHR competitors, including revenue cycle management applications, Netsmart has received the 2024 award for the highest customer satisfaction. Between August 2023 and February 2024, a total of 1,375 participants, consisting of psychologists, therapists, social workers, counselors, and mental health specialists, contributed to the crowdsourced survey. Additionally, 418 professionals in financial, administrative, and information technology roles participated in a separate non-practitioner polling. The user satisfaction survey respondents represented various groups, encompassing ambulatory psychiatric facilities, outpatient physicians, therapists, counselors, social workers, and psychologists. Additionally, participants included human services and government behavioral health agencies, as well as substance abuse and addiction medicine providers. In its assessment of ambulatory behavioral health EHR adoption and usage in the U.S., Black Book discovered that in Q1 2024, less than 22% of respondents feel that their practices or organizations are adequately prepared for electronic engagement in care coordination, patient record exchange, or population health initiatives with referral hospitals and physicians. This marks a marginal increase from the 12 percent reported in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. Black Book estimates that the behavioral health ambulatory technology market's growth potential will surpass 70 percent by the end of 2025. This projection is driven by impending value-based payment reforms, necessitating electronic data exchange and efficient care coordination. Additionally, there are considerations for government incentives to encourage the adoption and connectivity of mental health technology. Over the past 36 months, more than 150 startup IT vendors focusing on mental health processes have been incorporated into the Black Book user surveys directory, reflecting the industry's evolution in behavioral healthcare delivery through technological innovations and increased investment funding. "Consistently, Netsmart maintains its position as the highest-rated provider in the mental health tech industry, according to client users year after year," said Doug Brown, president of Black Book Market Research. "In a challenging and intricate market, Netsmart remains at the forefront of the behavioral health industry and consistently leads by delivering a product integral to users' workflow, facilitating patient coordination, and providing essential digital capabilities crucial for success in the value-based care environment." "Maintaining the top ranking in client satisfaction for our human services platform underscores Netsmart's commitment to delivering exceptional solutions," said David Strocchia, SVP of Human Services at Netsmart. "We are honored by this recognition from Black Book Market Research, which serves as a testament to the work we're doing alongside our clients to exceed the needs of providers across many communities. As the industry continues to evolve and navigate complexities, Netsmart remains dedicated to our mission to empower users with innovative tools that streamline workflows, enhance patient coordination, and drive positive outcomes." About Black Book Black Book Market Research LLC, its founder, management, and staff do not own or hold any financial interest in any of the vendors or public relations firms covered and encompassed in the surveys it conducts, including Netsmart. Additionally, Black Book does not contract for, barter, exchange, or accept direct services from any public relations firm mentioned in the rankings. Black Book reports the results of the collected satisfaction and client experience rankings in publication and to media before the vendor notification of rating results and does not solicit vendor/agency participation fees, review fees, inclusion or briefing charges, consultation requirements, and/or vendor collaboration as Black Book polls clients. For methodology, auditing, resources, comprehensive research, and detailed results on the product and services rankings, see http://www.blackbookmarketresearch.com. For more information, contact our survey team leaders at research@blackbookmarketresearch.com. Contact Information Press Office research@blackbookmarketresearch.com 8008637590 SOURCE: Black Book Research View the original press release on newswire.com. ORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / SkywardRx, an innovative digital healthcare consulting company, today announced it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Victoria's Voice Foundation, a nonprofit providing evidence-based drug education and addiction prevention support for families. The collaboration will help accelerate the distribution of educational materials focused on drug prevention and the facilitation of widespread access to naloxone, the lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication. Underpinning this innovative alliance, SkywardRx will seamlessly integrate the Foundation's comprehensive educational training and naloxone awareness program into its multifaceted distribution channels. These channels encompass diverse avenues, such as the widely influential AbundaBox HealthPack initiative, their Hosptial 340B program, as well as various Direct-to-Consumer initiatives. The synergy between the two entities aims to create a robust network for disseminating vital information and resources to combat the opioid crisis. "We are delighted to be collaborating with SkywardRx," said Jackie and David Siegel, Co-Founders of Victoria's Voice. "This will enable us to expand the reach of our programming significantly and save even more lives in the years to come." "SkywardRx is pleased to join forces with Victoria's Voice to champion drug education and awareness on a national scale," said Dave Rike, Co-Founder of SkywardRx. "Our ongoing initiatives are already set to reach millions of individuals and families in 2024 alone, and we are poised for even more substantial outreach with opportunities to provide education and awareness to over 10 million people in the early months of 2024." Throughout 2024, SkywardRx is rolling out a range of initiatives in partnership with school districts nationwide, aimed at addressing drug education, healthcare provisions, and food insecurity. These multifaceted programs are designed to provide students and their families across the country with access to innovative resources and services, facilitating the process of caring for their loved ones. About SkywardRx: SkywardRx stands as a leading healthcare consulting firm with a distinguished track record of collaboration with non-profits, hospitals, and Fortune 20 companies. At present, SkywardRx efficiently services over 1 million lives per month through its expansive distribution channels. The company projects an extraordinary impact, with a goal to service over 50 million lives in 2024. Co-founders Dave Rike and Alex Whitacre, both industry stalwarts with over 30 years of combined healthcare experience, bring a wealth of knowledge and success, having successfully built various healthcare enterprises throughout their careers. Their commitment to driving positive change in the healthcare landscape stands as the cornerstone of SkywardRx's mission. About Victoria's Voice Foundation: Victoria's Voice Foundation was established in 2019 by Jackie and David Siegel after losing their 18-year-old daughter to an accidental drug overdose. Victoria's Voice is dedicated to providing evidence-based drug education and addiction prevention support for families, including access to naloxone. Since its founding, Victoria's Voice has positively impacted more than one million parents and children through its education programs. Purchase naloxone without a prescription at https://vvf.innovascript.com. For more information about Victoria's Voice, visit www.victoriasvoice.org or @victoriasvoice. Contact Information Dave Rike Co-Founder drike@skywardrx.com 937-789-7201 SOURCE: SkywardRx View the original press release on newswire.com. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / KeyBank KeyBank and the KeyBank Foundation announced an investment of $500,000 in Pittsburgh's Neighborhood Allies to bolster the expansion of the organization's Financial Empowerment Center's (FEC) services throughout Allegheny County. This development marks a pivotal moment for the community-driven initiative in collaboration with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (ACDHS). The FEC, a beacon of support for individuals seeking financial stability, is set to embark on an exciting year with a formal partnership with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS). This collaboration between Neighborhood Allies and KeyBank signifies a strategic and significant leap forward, positioning the organization and its staff to enhance services and outreach. "We are deeply grateful for KeyBank's generous grant, which reinforces our commitment to fostering economic mobility for our region's residents. This support underscores the collective effort to empower individuals to achieve greater financial stability and resilience, ultimately advancing toward our north star goal of moving 100,000 low-income Pittsburghers up the socio-economic ladder," said Presley Gillespie, President, and CEO of Neighborhood Allies. "We are proud to support Neighborhood Allies in their expansion of the Financial Empowerment Center into Allegheny County," said Victor Laurenza, KeyBank Western Pennsylvania Market President. "Neighborhood Allies has demonstrated remarkable success in empowering individuals, and we are confident that this strategic initiative will further enhance their positive impact. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of the Financial Empowerment Center, creating lasting economic opportunities for the residents of Allegheny County." In the past 4+ years, the FEC has served over 2,200 residents in 7,500 sessions, resulting in 3,400 measurable outcomes. Notable achievements include 973 clients reducing delinquent accounts, 739 contributing to long-term savings, 547 clients raising their credit scores by at least 35 points, and 273 opening safe and affordable bank accounts. The total amount of savings built is $2.6 million, and the total amount of debt reduced is $6 million. Read more about KeyBank's support of Neighborhood Allies: KeyBank awards grant to Neighborhood Allies | Pittsburgh Business Times 'A place where everyone has that opportunity': KeyBank Foundation gives Neighborhood Allies a $500,000 grant | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette KeyBank Supports Pittsburgh-Based Neighborhood Allies To Help Build Financial Stability | Yahoo Finance KeyBank Foundation Provides Grant to Neighborhood Allies to Build Equitable Resilience | Neighborhood Allies 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 ALMATY, KAZACHSTAN / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / The investment amount was 1 million USD, at a 98 million USD valuation. Draper Associates can increase its equity share in the company further. Mr. Tim Draper comments on the investment: "Citix can transform cities, bringing people together for events, alerting citizens about goings on, and even provide security, Wi-fi, and additional services call from a small footprint. Citix is for smart government." Citix projects itself as an innovator in urban technology and states its mission as redefining public space. The company combined solutions for smart cities and Ad Tech out-of-home in a single product and introduced a smartboard to the market - the first urban gadget. The smartboard collects and analyzes external data and streams relevant content - navigation, social, entertaining, and advertising. Citix offers an ecosystem of gadgets: a transport smartboard, Tom, a pedestrian one, Jerry, and a mobile one, Shark. They operate on their own software and hardware, using blockchain technology. Smartboards are linked to a common platform, Citix Panel, to manage content remotely. As envisioned by Citix, smartboards will become a new way of communication between the city, people, and businesses. The company has built a gadget network in Kazakhstan, grown into a local leader in the Digital Out-of-Home market, entered the markets of Turkey and MENA, and is currently developing in the USA. Tim Draper is the first US investor in Citix, known for his early investments in Tesla, Skype, SpaceX, Robinhood, and other technology projects. He took an interest in Citix during the Draper University Hero Training accelerator program. In 2023, Astana Hub, the technology park of IT startups in Central Asia, partnered with the program. The region's 15 best projects went to Silicon Valley for training, giving Citix an opportunity to work with Draper. This led to the first case of a Kazakhstan-based IT company attracting US investments. Bakhtiyar Kubessov, Citix co-founder & CBDO: "We couldn't be more inspired by our partnership with Tim Draper, such an experienced investor. His presence not only adds extra motivation to our team but also reaffirms the significance of our mission - redefining public space. With confidence and ambition, backed by Tim, we aim to enhance public spaces for all." Central Asia is now being promoted in the USA as a single region. For this purpose, the Silkroad Innovation Hub was opened in San Francisco, to build connections between the region and Silicon Valley and support talent from Kazakhstan and other Turkic countries. Citix is one of the leaders of the Hub, a graduate of Google for Startups and Draper University, and a successful participant of TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 with the "Best Speaker" award. Yana Shoibekova, Citix founder & CEO: "Central Asia has something to offer to the Silicon Valley investors and the international technology market. We are sure that interest in Citix will result in investment in other promising IT projects of this region". ### About Citix Citix is a Kazakhstan-based technology company in the field of Smart City & AdTech, which develops urban gadgets and aims to reinvent public space by unlocking the digital potential of cities. Gadgets provide useful information, making the city more informative, safe and comfortable. To learn more, visit www.citix.me . About Draper Associates Founded in 1985 by Tim Draper, Draper Associates is the leader in early-stage venture capital that continues to invest in technology companies that show exceptional promise. The firm's investments have included Coinbase, Baidu, Tesla, Skype, SpaceX, Twitch, Hotmail, Focus Media, Robinhood, Carta, and other industry unicorns at the early stage. Draper Associates has built a reputation for encouraging entrepreneurs to drive their businesses to greatness, to transform industries with new technologies, and to build platforms for extraordinary growth, jobs and wealth creation. Send plans to plans@draper.vc . To learn more, visit www.draper.vc . PR Contacts Yelena Ogbonna y.ogbonna@citix.me +77054505829 Leonid Nigmatullin l.nigmatullin@citix.me +77015292423 SOURCE: CITIX View the original press release on accesswire.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Roscan Gold Corporation (TSXV: ROS) (FSE: 2OJ) (OTCQB: RCGCF) ("Roscan" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has agreed to settle (the "Debt Settlement") an aggregate of USD$1,005,000 debt owed to an arm's length creditor through the issuance of a secured convertible promissory note (the "Note"). In addition, the Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to CAD$1,000,000 principal amount as a secured subordinated note for gross proceeds of up to CAD$1,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Notes shall bear interest at 12% per annum from the date of issuance and shall mature on the date that is six months from the date of issuance (the "Maturity Date"). The Notes will be convertible, in whole or in part, into common shares (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company at a conversion price (the "Conversion Price") equal to CAD$0.11 per Common Share. The Note holders shall receive accrued and unpaid interest on the Note, paid in cash, up to, but excluding, the earlier of the date of conversion and the Maturity Date. The Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security ranking subordinate to the other secured indebtedness of the Company, over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company. The Notes issued pursuant to the Offering shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company ranking subordinate to the Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement and all other secured indebtedness of the Company. Closing of the Debt Settlement and the Offering are subject to customary closing conditions, including the consent of the secured creditor of the Company with respect to the grant of security, and approvals of applicable securities regulatory authorities, including the TSX Venture Exchange. It is expected that insiders of the Company will participate in the Offering for CAD$400,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes. Additional details regarding insider participation will be provided in subsequent press releases of the Company. All securities issued in connection with the Offering and the Debt Settlement will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Roscan Roscan Gold Corporation is a Canadian gold exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of gold properties in West Africa. The Company has assembled a significant land position of 100%-owned permits in an area of producing gold mines (including B2 Gold's Fekola Mine which lies in a contiguous property to the west of Kandiole), and major gold deposits, located both north and south of its Kandiole Project in West Mali. For further information, please contact: Nana Sangmuah President & CEO Tel: (902) 832-5555 Email: info@Roscan.ca Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including that all necessary governmental and regulatory approvals will be received as and when expected. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. THIS NEWS RELEASE IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION IN CANADA ONLY AND IS NOT AUTHORIZED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198713 SOURCE: Roscan Gold Corporation MAPS program helped remove barriers to education; Candi Sneed becomes first link in a chain of future engineers NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Candi Sneed had always been passionate about pursuing higher education and a career in engineering. However, the cost of tuition and the lack of flexibility in traditional academic programs have been a barrier for her. That was until she discovered the Medtronic Advancement Pathways and Skill-building (MAPS) program. MAPS is a powerful program for Medtronic employees in the U.S. and Puerto Rico to take control of their education and career development, starting on day one of employment with no strings attached. The program pays 100% of tuition directly to eligible academic institution s , allowing employees to pursue their academic goals without needing to cover the cost of courses up-front. Employees have access to 90 online undergraduate degree programs. Candi, a Senior Analyst at our Tempe, Arizona facility, jumped at the opportunity to take part in MAPS. "I was excited because there were no upfront costs. It was a game-changer for me," she said. She immediately enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering program at Arizona State University. The program was specifically designed for working adults, with flexible schedules and online coursework that allowed her to balance her work and academic commitments. While initially apprehensive about returning to school after a long gap, the support Candi received from MAPS and her professors helped ease her nerves. "I find that I can convey technical concepts more clearly, fostering better collaboration and understanding amongst my team. The technical knowledge and soft skills I've gained through this program elevated my job performance and positioned me well for career advancement here at Medtronic," said Candi. We know that degree requirements can be a barrier to talented candidates, including ethnically diverse groups and veterans, when it comes to advancing their careers. Candi is among the first group of MAPS graduates and obtained her bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 2023. Her story is just one of many that have emerged from MAPS, which has helped hundreds of Medtronic employees pursue their academic goals and advance in their careers by removing barriers to education. The best part of her experience? "My 11-year-old daughter wants to be a software engineer and my teenage son wants to design lifesaving equipment for first responders," she said. "I am thankful to be that first link in our chain of future engineers." February is Black History Month, and the Medtronic African Descent Network is celebrating with the theme Ubuntu meaning, "I am because we are." It is a collection of values and practices that people of African origin view as making people authentic human beings. Read more stories of how Medtronic is driving impact year-round in the Global Inclusion, Diversity & Equity annual report. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Medtronic on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Medtronic Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/medtronic Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Medtronic View the original press release on accesswire.com GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Minesto, leading ocean energy developer, has upgraded the roadmap to a 200 MW tidal energy buildout in the Faroe Islands. The scaled-up roadmap is a response to the growing demands for renewable energy, where unlocking the tidal opportunity enables transition to a 100% renewable energy system. The recently reached milestone of megawatt-scale electricity generation with Dragon 12 to the grid shifts focus to commercial array buildout. The Faroe Islands has one of the world's most ambitious energy transition schemes, aiming for 100% renewables by 2030. Minesto's suggested roadmap includes tidal energy buildout in seven site locations in Faroe Island waters, reaching a total of 200 MW equivalent to about 40% of future energy demand. Dr Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, was recently interviewed on national Faroese TV: "We recently raised our ambitions to 200 MW as new tidal energy resources have been verified, and the demand for clean energy from local stakeholders such as the Faroese fish farming industry is growing," said Dr Martin Edlund. Minesto estimates the 200MW project investment to 400 M EUR, where 50% constitutes hardware sales from Minesto. "In addition to increasing energy demand, a larger investment case at 200 MW increases attractiveness for investors based on improved economies of scale," explains Dr Martin Edlund. The road-map targets Hestfjord as the first site for build out. This is also where Minesto together with the local utility partner SEV is engaged in site development activities such as consenting and planning of cable routes. Video comment from CEO: CEO comment Looking ahead after Dragon 12 electricity milestone (youtube.com) Film visualising the 200 MW buildout plan: Minesto's roadmap to 200 MW tidal energy buildout in the Faroe Islands (youtube.com) For additional information, please contact Cecilia Sernhage, Chief Communications Officer +46 735 23 71 58 ir@minesto.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/minesto-evolves-its-faroese-business-case-upgrading-to-a-200-mw-tidal-energy-buildout-302067552.html VALENCIA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / In a remarkable acknowledgment of innovation and excellence, VIP Toolkit has been honored with recognition from Tech Bullion for "Revolutionizing Business Efficiency in 2023." This accolade celebrates VIP Toolkit's commitment to empowering businesses with cutting-edge tools and exceptional service, setting a new standard in the industry. VIP Toolkit Recognition Empowering Businesses With Cutting-Edge Tools VIP Toolkit has positioned itself as a leader in the digital transformation arena by providing businesses with advanced tools designed to streamline operations and enhance productivity. These tools, developed with precision and user-friendliness in mind, have been instrumental in automating processes, reducing manual errors, and enabling businesses to focus on strategic growth initiatives. The company's innovative software solutions and platforms have demonstrated tangible impacts on operational efficiency, making it a deserving recipient of this recognition. Exceptional Service That Sets a New Standard Beyond its technological advancements, VIP Toolkit has been recognized for its unparalleled customer service. The company's approach to client engagement is deeply rooted in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of each business it serves. This customer-centric mindset, combined with a proactive and responsive service model, ensures that businesses receive tailored solutions that precisely meet their needs. VIP Toolkit's dedication to fostering long-term partnerships with its clients is a testament to its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. A Testament to Dedication and Team Cohesion This recognition from Tech Bullion also highlights the dedication and team cohesion at the heart of VIP Toolkit's operations. The company's success is a direct result of the collaborative efforts of its talented team, who share a common vision of driving business efficiency through innovation. The team's ability to work seamlessly together, leveraging each member's strengths, has been critical in developing and delivering the cutting-edge tools and services that have now been recognized on this prestigious platform. Setting the Bar for Industry Innovation VIP Toolkit's receipt of the Tech Bullion recognition for "Revolutionizing Business Efficiency in 2023" is not just a milestone for the company but also a beacon for the industry. It underscores the importance of continuous innovation, customer-centric service, and the pursuit of excellence in today's competitive business environment. VIP Toolkit's achievements serve as an inspiration for others in the tech community, demonstrating the transformative impact of empowering businesses with the right tools and support. In conclusion, VIP Toolkit's recognition by Tech Bullion is a well-deserved accolade that celebrates the company's achievements in enhancing business efficiency through technology and service. As VIP Toolkit continues to innovate and lead by example, its contributions to the industry are sure to inspire further advancements, setting new benchmarks for success in the digital age. Contact Information: VIP Toolkit Manager info@viptoolkit.io SOURCE: VIP Toolkit View the original press release on newswire.com. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK) has partnered with ISAP India Foundation to modernize dairy farming in the water-scarce region of Antargaon in Wardha District, Maharashtra. The initiative - "Economic and Social Development of Indian Village Through Technology-Enabled Dairy Farming" - also involved collaboration with technology implementation partner eVerse.AI to implement the corporate social responsibility (CSR) project. India has the world's largest bovine population and is a leader in milk production. However, it faces challenges such as low milk-yield per animal and insufficient quality of milk products. The decentralized structure of dairy farming in India and limited awareness about scientific veterinary practices among rural farmers contribute to these issues. By partnering with ISAP India Foundation - a not-for-profit agency engaged in leading national-level livelihood promotion and agriculture marketing consultancy - Rockwell aims to improve livelihoods of dairy farmers in one of the most water-scarce areas of India by using innovative products and services that leverage digital technologies for livestock development through scientifically-proven veterinary practices. The initiative provides a suite of services to dairy farmers, including: Supplying Internet of Things (IoT) enabled collar devices for tracking vital health parameters of dairy animals; Providing mobile phone-based alerts and advice to farmers from veterinary experts; Use of muzzle-based biometric identification system to provide digital identity to animals along with 12-digit Pashu Aadhar; Use of eVerse.AI's newly launched CowGPT platform to provide accurate insights and advisory to dairy farmers about animal health, ration balancing advisory services, fodder development activities, supply of quality animal feed, village level animal health services, dairy farming extension programs (training, demos, expert visits), market integration activities for milk sale, and the creation of additional revenue sources for families of dairy farmers utilizing animal waste products. The project, which began in May 2023, has already yielded promising results. In a recent field visit to Antargaon, progress was shared with local dairy farmers through an interactive session. Farmers expressed positive feedback, citing a 15-20% increase in milk production within the last six months. Milk quality has also improved, helping them to achieve higher prices and increasing household income. "We are thrilled that our CSR project at Antargaon, Maharashtra, is already showing early signs of success and providing tangible benefits to local farmers, and augmenting their incomes," said Dilip Sawhney, managing director, Rockwell Automation India. "We are confident that this project will continue to help the people of Antargaon to benefit from the technology-enabled scientific management of the health and reproductive cycles of their farm animals. Projects like this will eventually lead to improved incomes and better quality of life in rural communities throughout India." Learn more about other Rockwell Automation corporate social responsibility efforts in the company's 2023 Sustainability Report. A new CSR project aims to improve the livelihoods of dairy farmers in one of the most water-scarce areas of India by using innovative products and services that leverage digital technologies. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Rockwell Automation on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Rockwell Automation Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/rockwell-automation Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Rockwell Automation View the original press release on accesswire.com Company to make 600 trees available to residential customers, in turn reducing costs, improving energy efficiency and furthering sustainability NEWARK, DE / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Delmarva Power customers can now request a free tree to plant at their home as part of the company's partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation's Energy-Saving Trees program. Residential customers can reserve a complimentary tree on a first-come, first-served basis and reap the energy-saving benefits that trees provide. Delmarva Power will make 600 free trees available to customers throughout its Delaware and Maryland service areas. Customers can choose their tree from several types of species native to the northeast region, such as Baldcypress, River Birch, Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood and Red Maple. Trees will be delivered by mail by the end of May. Visit arborday.org/delmarva to reserve a tree while supplies last. Delmarva Power reminds customers to know what's below and call 811 to have utility underground lines marked before they begin planting. "The trees planted under this program enhance our communities while providing numerous energy-saving and environmental benefits to our customers," said Doug Mokoid, Delmarva Power region president. "In our 12th consecutive year of partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, we feel incredibly grateful for their collaboration to foster a program that aligns with our dedication to addressing environmental challenges faced by our community members. Together, we'll create a path toward a cleaner energy future for all." When planted properly, trees provided through the program have the potential to reduce energy bills by 15 to 30 percent as they grow. Trees also play a critical role in protecting homes from the summer sun and breaking up winter winds for better energy efficiency, in addition to improving the air we breathe. Customers can find interactive tools online through the Arbor Day Foundation to help them determine where to plant their tree for energy savings. "We are proud to continue an over decade-long partnership with Delmarva Power, whose dedication to the Energy-Saving Trees program only echoes the company's larger commitment to improving their communities," said Kristen Bousquet, program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees provided through our program can help reduce carbon emissions and filter storm water while also providing critical energy savings, benefiting both the environment and Delmarva Power valued customers." The trees distributed by Delmarva Power since beginning its partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation are expected to absorb more than 195,072 pounds of air pollutants, save nearly 26.34 million kWh of energy and provides nearly $10 million in combined energy and community benefits. Delmarva Power is committed to powering a more sustainable future for our service area by engaging in several programs that better our communities. The Sustainable Communities Grant Program provides funding to open space projects, community resiliency programs, environmental conservation efforts and improvements to parks and recreation resources. Furthermore, our Climate Commitment and Path to Clean goals align our operations, grid investments and customer product offerings to enable the company to meet the climate change and clean energy goals of the communities in which we operate. Delmarva Power has also been a Tree Line USA member for more than 20 years. Tree Line USA is a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters that recognizes public and private utilities for pursuing best practices that protect and cultivate America's urban tree canopy. Learn more about urban planting work done by the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org. To learn more about Delmarva Power, visit The Source, Delmarva Power's online newsroom. Find additional information by visiting delmarva.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/DelmarvaPower and on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/DelmarvaConnect. Delmarva Power's mobile app is available at delmarva.com/MobileApp. # # # View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Delmarva Power on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Delmarva Power Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/delmarva-power Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Delmarva Power View the original press release on accesswire.com EDMONTON, AB / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / IMBiotechnologies Ltd. ("IMBiotechnologies") is pleased to announce the signing of a supply agreement with Embol Experts, LLC ("Embol Experts"), one of the largest group purchasing organizations (GPOs) in the US, supplying office-based laboratory (OBL) and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) clinics focused on minimally-invasive procedures. "We are excited to be working with IMBiotechnologies as their Ekobi microspheres are truly unique compared to the other embolic agents on the market," said Keerthi Prasad, MD, Principal of Embol Experts. "We believe, the biodegradability and ultrasound detectability features improve the overall safety and efficacyof the procedure, enhancingpatient outcomes." "We are delighted with the opportunity to work with Embol Experts as they continue to grow in the ambulatory market," said Michael Stewart, CEO of IMBiotechnologies. "We look forward to working with Embol Experts to further develop and expand the use of our Ekobi Embolization Microsphere product." Ekobi EmbolizationMicrospheres Ekobi Embolization Microspheres, is a first-in-class, biodegradable embolic agent that is detectable by ultrasound. Ekobi Embolization Microspheres are approved in the US for treatment of unresectable/inoperable hypervascularized tumors and in Canada for the treatment of malignant and non- malignant hypervascularized tumors (HVT), uterine fibroids, and enlarged prostates due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). About Embol Experts, LLC. Embol Experts, LLC is a joint venture between Arthritis Knee Pain Centers and Embolix. Arthritis Knee Pain Centers are centers of excellence, treating the debilitating pain of osteoarthritis without the need for opioids or surgery. Embolix is the market leader in outpatientembolization procedures and partnerships. Together, these companies have achieved exponential growth by providing patients with cost-effective pain-relieving technologies and procedures. About IMBiotechnologies Ltd. IMBiotechnologies Ltd is a privately held Canadian medical device company located in Edmonton, Alberta, focused on the commercialization of medical productsin the area of embolotherapy. The company's mission isto create and commercialize innovative productsthat treat human disease and improve quality of life. For More Information Please Contact: Michael Stewart, President & CEO +1-780-945-6609 Email: mstewart@imbiotechnologies.com Manish Grigo +1-416-569-3292 Email: mgrigo @imbiotechnologies.com 1 Source: Radiological Socitey of North America https://www.rsna.org/news/2022/march/gae-for-knee-oa Forward Looking Statements: This press release may contain forward-looking statements and predictions. These forward-looking statements, by their nature, necessarily involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. The Company considers the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based to be reasonable at the time they were prepared, but cautions that these assumptions regarding the future events, many of whichare beyond the control of the Company,may ultimately prove to be incorrect. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events and except as required by law. SOURCE: IMBIOTECHNOLOGIES LTD. View the original press release on accesswire.com SYDNEY, AU, Feb 21, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - In the digital age, maintaining competitiveness requires a deep understanding of technological advancements and how they can be leveraged. Australia has faced challenges in keeping pace with technological advancement, potentially creating obstacles for innovation and digital adoption.Maintaining competitiveness in the digital age requires a thorough grasp of technical developments and their applications. Australia has to deal with a disjointed and antiquated digital infrastructure, as the regulatory framework may find it challenging to keep up with new developments in technology, which could impede innovation and the use of digital technologies.Due to its outdated infrastructure, Australia faces challenges maintaining its competitiveness in the digital sphere, making it more difficult to innovate and fully utilize digital breakthroughs.In light of this, the imminent "26th Edition of the Digital Transformation Summit," organized by Exito Media Concepts and scheduled for March 14th, will assemble representatives, thought leaders, and experts. This premier event aims to facilitate the exchange of insights and expertise on the latest technologies and trends shaping the landscape of digital transformation.Featured speakers at the conference:Simon Bush, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA).Vasyl Nair, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mine Super.Greg McKenna, CEO, Police Bank.Dr. Tom Gao, Chief Technology and Digital Services Officer, City of Sydney.Cherie Hughes, Executive Group Manager Infrastructure Delivery Solutions, Major Projects Canberra ACT Government.Jeremiah Mannings, Chief Data Officer, Uniting.Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from keynote speakers, participate in panel discussions, and network with other industry professionals.Exciting topics you can expect to see on the agenda for the Digital Transformation summit:Sydney, include:Data Protection: Preserving privacy in a digitised worldUnleashing the AI Revolution: The Power of Cloud Computing and Digital infrastructureBreaking the chains: Revamping the Legacy System for a Success Digital TransformationCyber resilience in the age of the digital transformationBeyond Boundaries: The Next Frontier in Digital Transformation TechData Protection: Preserving privacy in a digitised worldCyber resilience in the age of the digital transformationFor more information and to register for the event, visit https://digitransformationsummit.com/sydney/?About ExitoExito, which means success in Spanish, embodies our commitment to the success of our customers. Each year, we host over 240 virtual and in-person conferences globally, bringing together audiences with world-class thought leaders and C-level executives across industries. Our meticulously crafted agendas, based on extensive research and valuable industry insights, facilitate business, knowledge transfer, deal flow, and impactful messaging for brands.Author: Nishmitha MSFor Media Enquiries, Contact:Kasturi Nayak,Sr. Marketing Executivekasturi.nayak@exito-e.comExito Media ConceptsSource: ExitoCopyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Fuel Labs, creator of the first optimistic rollup Fuel V1, today announced its evolution into the "Rollup OS", a complete operating system specifically designed to help Ethereum rollups realize their full potential. Specifically designed to tackle critical limitations in the existing rollups architectures, the strategic shift strengthens Fuel Labs' position as a visionary in the Ethereum ecosystem while paving the way for its mainnet launch in Q3 2024. Unlike existing virtual machines (VMs) designed for layer-1 (L1) blockchains or general-purpose computation systems, Fuel offers the first purpose-built VM that will unlock new capabilities for Ethereum rollups. Fuel's unique architecture addresses core challenges in blockchain scalability beyond the conventional paradigm of modularity and even data availability enabling higher throughput via parallelization, state minimization, seamless interoperability and VM customizability. "As rollups mature, it's clear that an operating environment optimized for their unique requirements is a non-negotiable next step. Fuel is that evolution: the 'Rollup OS' solves critical bottlenecks, future-proofing both rollup technology and the Ethereum ecosystem," said Nick Dodson, CEO and Co-Founder of Fuel Labs. Addressing Ethereum's Scaling Bottleneck Ethereum's reign as the dominant smart contract platform is undeniable, yet its future-readiness and developer appeal hinges on EVM's ability to solve future requirements of Ethereum rollups. As rollups and modular infrastructure rise, existing technologies made for general computation, or monolithic L1 systems, fail to address the evolving demands of this rollup-centric reality. This forces developers to navigate compromises in design, limiting innovation, adoption, and ultimately, Ethereum's long-term vision for a globally decentralized network. The Fuel Advantage: A New Operating System for the Rollup Era Fuel brings unprecedented power to Ethereum rollups by combining state-of-the-art innovations and learning from its rich history in rollup development: Parallelization to Fuel Scalability Beyond Modularity: Parallel transaction execution in the FuelVM enables Fuel-powered rollups to offer a highly performant user experience, while preserving Ethereum's decentralization and security. As blockchain networks are increasingly designed to be modular separating execution, consensus, transaction finality and data availability into separate layers optimized performance rests on parallelization to offer next-generation scalability benefits. Parallel transaction execution in the enables Fuel-powered rollups to offer a highly performant user experience, while preserving Ethereum's decentralization and security. As blockchain networks are increasingly designed to be modular separating execution, consensus, transaction finality and data availability into separate layers optimized performance rests on parallelization to offer next-generation scalability benefits. Tackling State Bloat for Sustainable Growth: Fuel's advanced UTXO model , coupled with unique state minimization techniques , combats state bloat referring to the ever-increasing accumulation of data that must be entirely stored and managed by nodes in a blockchain network to ensure proper chain validation and state transitions. This allows Fuel-powered rollups to scale without compromise, inheriting Ethereum-level security all while maintaining the lowest node operation overheads. This translates to significantly decreased processing requirements for validators thereby ensuring long-term decentralization. Fuel's , , combats state bloat referring to the ever-increasing accumulation of data that must be entirely stored and managed by nodes in a blockchain network to ensure proper chain validation and state transitions. This allows Fuel-powered rollups to scale without compromise, inheriting Ethereum-level security all while maintaining the lowest node operation overheads. This translates to significantly decreased processing requirements for validators thereby ensuring long-term decentralization. Introspection for Seamless Interoperability: Cross-chain fragmentation reduces overall efficiency. Features like introspection streamline interchain communication, empowering developers and users to navigate a fully connected, multi-rollup ecosystem on Ethereum with confidence. Cross-chain fragmentation reduces overall efficiency. Features like streamline interchain communication, empowering developers and users to navigate a fully connected, multi-rollup ecosystem on Ethereum with confidence. Security-First Design with Asset Orientation: FuelVM removes non-intuitive features like ERC20's unlimited approvals, and introduces multiple native assets for use cases like native NFT bridging and much more. Native account abstraction and support for multiple signature schemes open the doors to effortless user and wallet onboarding into web3, accelerating mainstream adoption. removes non-intuitive features like ERC20's unlimited approvals, and introduces multiple native assets for use cases like native NFT bridging and much more. Native account abstraction and support for multiple signature schemes open the doors to effortless user and wallet onboarding into web3, accelerating mainstream adoption. Developer Empowerment: FuelVM: The heart of the Rollup OS, FuelVM provides maximum flexibility and power to developers, unlocking innovations impossible with constrained legacy architectures. Sway: A domain-specific language designed for blockchains, combining features of Rust and Solidity for secure, yet developer-friendly, blockchain programming. Forc: A suite of powerful tools simplifying and accelerating dApp development and deployment on Fuel-powered chains. Highly Customizable: The Rollup OS unlocks a new wave of creativity in innovative decentralized application (dApp) building, purposefully designed to support use cases that require high computational load, such as advanced decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols and web3 gaming. The Rollup OS unlocks a new wave of creativity in innovative decentralized application (dApp) building, purposefully designed to support use cases that require high computational load, such as advanced decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols and web3 gaming. Open-Sourced Security Collaboration: Fuel prioritizes Ethereum's security as the foundation, while advocating for collaboration over competition through its open-source ethos. Fuel aims to remodel execution in order to fuel the future of Ethereum, unlocking never before seen web3 use cases at massive scale. For more information, developers may visit Fuel's tech docs at https://docs.fuel.network. Support can also be found via Fuel's Discord at https://discord.com/invite/fuelnetwork. Nick Dodson, CEO and Co-Founder of Fuel Labs is available for interview. About Fuel Fuel is an operating system purpose-built for Ethereum rollups. Fuel aims to bring new capabilities to the Ethereum Ecosystem all while preserving decentralisation. Fuel rollups will have parallelization, state minimised execution, and interoperability along with native account abstraction and support for wallets of all networks. Fuel combines the purpose-built FuelVM, a highly optimised Rust-based blockchain programming language Sway, a fully integrated tool chain Forc, and several services to create a complete Rollup OS for Ethereum. Fuel's unique architecture will allow developers to build experiences never before seen in the Ethereum ecosystem. For more information, please visit: Website X/Twitter Discord Blog GitHub Documentation Forum View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221820065/en/ Contacts: Media Fuel@wachsman.com LONDON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 21, the closing day of the 2nd International Conference on Sustainability: Developments & Innovations, BE OPEN took part in the culminating panel discussion dedicated to the role of international organizations in promoting sustainability aspects. BE OPEN Director Gennady Terebkov spoke about the achievements and ambition of the foundation's SDG-focused competition programme, the importance of including sustainability-related programmes into curriculums of educational institutions worldwide, and together with his fellow panelists offered a vision of how international organizations can collaborate to create a cohesive and coordinated global response to sustainability challenges. Among his esteemed fellow-panelists there was the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Dr. Margaret Jones Williams, who answered the pivotal questions of how international organizations can contribute to the promotion and implementation of sustainability aspects on a global scale and what challenges international organizations face in their efforts to drive sustainability. Managing Director for Horvath Middle East Patrick Braunschweig and May Barber, LEED Green Associate Architect, shared their experience of collaborating with governments, businesses, and communities to ensure a comprehensive approach to promoting sustainability. The panel also discussed what innovative approaches and strategies international organizations are employing to address complex sustainability challenges and how international organizations can support developing countries in their sustainable development goals and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities. BE OPEN strongly advocated inclusion of sustainability programs into curriculums of universities worldwide, as well as encouraging students to build their own awareness and personally contribute to sustainability causes. In her address to the ICSF2024, Founder of BE OPEN Elena Baturina said: "For the past five years we have worked globally to support the Sustainable Development Goals, raise awareness of sustainability issues and contribute to solving them via recognizing, showcasing and promoting innovative ideas and projects that embody and advance sustainable principles and aims. Your conference is an outstanding opportunity to connect talented people all over the world with decision-makers. BE OPEN is happy to joins in to offer the global creative community a nourishing platform for communication, exchange of unconventional ideas, guidance, mentorship and support." The 2024 ICSDI conference and exhibition were organised with support from BE OPEN by the Prince Sultan University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It focused on the best engineering practices employed in achieving sustainable development goals. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344608/BE_OPEN_Foundation.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/be-open-spoke-of-its-work-to-support-sdgs-at-the-2nd-international-conference-on-sustainability-in-riyadh-302067675.html Enbridge's in-kind donation of 120 valves provides training for Alexander Valve and Supply, prosperity for Alexander First Nation NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Enbridge In 2018, seven motivated employees in a 7,500-square-foot warehouse began valve modification work for the oil and gas industry. From left, Enbridge's Enbridge Terminal manager Matt McPherson, Pamela Strankman of Enbridge's Supply Chain Management group, and Alexander Valve and Supply President/SEO Ken Braget display some of the 120 suprlus valves donated by Enbridge in August 2023. Fast forward to 2023, and Alexander Valve and Supply is Canada's first Indigenous community-owned valve and supply company-with $45 million in inventory, a strong track record of Indigenous employment, and hard-won expertise in the oil-and-gas, mining, refining, pulp-and-paper, and petrochemical markets. A fantastic success story, to be sure . . .with plenty more training opportunities on the way. In recent weeks, Enbridge officials made a joint announcement with leadership from Alexander First Nation, which holds a significant ownership stake in Alexander Valve and Supply, during the Nation's Treaty Week gathering and celebrations near Morinville, AB. At the Aug. 21 event, Enbridge announced a donation of 120 surplus valves to Alexander Valve and Supply. The donated valves will be used to train new or future employees, including members of the Alexander First Nation, in valve servicing and refurbishment. "As CEO of ABC and also a member of the Nation, I want to thank Enbridge for their generous donation to our Valve company and ultimately to our Nation's continued growth," says Ian Arcand, President and CEO of the Alexander Business Corporation, the economic arm of Alexander First Nation. "We started ABC in 2018, and with the support and guidance from Chief George Arcand Jr. and his council, we certainly are reaching our goals of creating long-term sustainable businesses on the Nation that meet our four main TIER business pillars-Training members, Investing back into our community, Employment. and generating own-source Revenue," adds Ian Arcand. "I look forward to working with Enbridge into the future based on a true business relationship that benefits both parties." Alexander Valve and Supply is an approved vendor for the likes of Enbridge and international manufacturer Valvitalia, and in 2022 produced the first Indigenous-made ball valve in Canada on First Nations land. Enbridge's donated valves range in diameter from inch to 42 inches, and create an opportunity for Alexander First Nation members and Alexander Valve and Supply employees to learn basic skills such as working with hand tools, cleaning, machining and painting. "With every valve that Alexander refurbishes and sells, 100% of the profit goes to supporting community initiatives or putting community members through post-secondary school," said Matt McPherson, manager of Enbridge's Edmonton Terminal facility, during the Aug. 21 event. "So, as (Alexander Valve and Supply President and CEO) Ken Braget has said, what might look like scrap to some people can actually be a way of helping to change an entire community forever," he added. "We at Enbridge commend Ken and the team at Alexander Valve for their vision in approaching us with the idea and making this donation a reality. It's a real win-win for all involved, and we are happy to support such a great cause." A $10,000 Fueling Futures grant from Enbridge helped to support Alexander First Nation during its Treaty Week celebrations. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Enbridge on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Enbridge Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/enbridge Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Enbridge View the original press release on accesswire.com NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Yum! Brands: John H. - Designer, International Development Taco Bell blog February in the U.S. is dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the history of Black Americans and celebrating their contributions to the economy, culture, arts and society. At Yum!, we are committed to making room for all people and voices at our tables, because we are most relevant when our people - at all levels - represent the customers and communities we serve. Black History Month started off as a one-week celebration founded by Carter G. Woodson in February 1926. Fifty years later, the week was extended into a month dedicated to honoring Black American history. This year's nationwide Black History Month's focus is African Americans and the Arts, detailing African American artistic and cultural movements. To celebrate our Black team members and these communities, we will share some of their stories. Get ready to be inspired, get involved and continue learning and celebrating the culture and achievements of the Black community. John H. (He/Him) - Designer, International Development John H., Designer, International Development, found his way to Southern California from Louisville, Kentucky, with his partner and two pups in 2021 after accepting a position with Taco Bell. Before moving to Los Angeles, John grew up in Kentucky for the most part. While obtaining his B.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Louisville and simultaneously creating artistic window displays for a local furniture store on the side, John discovered a passion for branded buildings. "Creating window displays was the most fun and challenging work I did. Since I had to come up with the concept and have it viewed by the public, it taught me to endure through tough installations and self-critical thinking, while building my confidence for more demanding design tasks." It's no doubt that designing restaurants for Taco Bell's global markets is fitting for John. In his role, John works with franchise partners to achieve the best Taco Bell asset for their market, not only in terms of aesthetics, but also on digital accommodations, customer's dining experience and operations' efficiency. "I find developing a physical reality representative of the brand's created self-perception to be some of the most exciting parts of my work. When doing this, I'm transferring customers into a Taco Bell reality, to which I hope can be more uplifting and colorful." John uses this same approach in his role as communications officer for Taco Bell's Business Employee Resource Group, Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S (Thriving African American Communities, Opportunities and Sponsorship) through the visual tools and newsletters he creates. Since joining Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S, John has furthered his connection with the Black community. "Being a transplant to the area, Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S has provided me with the opportunity to build a sense of community with some of my colleagues. It has also helped me feel impactful in the office by influencing the group's programming and outreach in the area. Being embraced and heard by those in this group has made my move to California easier." When it comes to Black History Month, John believes that this is a time to showcase the diverseness of the Black and African American culture within the nation, while also addressing generational trauma together. "Black History month is an opportunity to reassure myself, my community, and our common identity of our appreciated existence. Being a Black man, who is bi-racial, in America can be a tiring and an exhausting experience. This includes anything from noticing how I enter a building, to how I walk behind someone, or to how I present myself. Having a dedicated month recognizing the community for what it offers to the nation provides a momentary sigh of relief." If he had to choose one person in Black history that inspires him, it would be Paul Revere Williams. "During college, I had to research a historical figure on the same career path as I was pursuing. Although I'm not an architect, I had chosen Paul Revere Williams. His ability to focus on his life's mission, to create beautiful and outlasting buildings, while facing so many adversities, including not being able to enjoy some of the buildings he had designed due to his race, showed me that through determination and adaption anything could outlive racism." Be open-hearted and receptive to our perspectives. Be genuine and drop biases at the door. Stay present with us and be willing to learn and to have fun with life! View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Yum! Brands on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Yum! Brands Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/yum-brands Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Yum! Brands View the original press release on accesswire.com NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Inogen Alliance Remaining informed about new trends and innovations in environment, health, safety, (EHS) and sustainability is crucial for industry professionals dedicated to continuously enhancing their company's processes and initiatives. There are a multitude of upcoming EHS and Sustainability events across the globe that can serve as invaluable resources for gaining fresh insights, identifying new trends, and ultimately contributing to a safer and more environmentally friendly workplace and planet. From interactive sessions to inspirational presentations and networking opportunities, here is a brief compilation of global EHS and sustainability conferences and events that should be on your radar for 2024. Asia Sustainability Week Asia Date: 11-13 March Location: Bangkok, Thailand Event Details: In its third year, Sustainability Week Asia will connect sustainability changemakers, purpose-driven consumers and business leaders to gain the tools needed to transition to net-zero, faster. Join us in Bangkok for case studies, in-depth panels, private roundtable discussions and networking opportunities, that support your journey to rapid business transformation. Website: https://events.economist.com/sustainability-week-asia/ 2024 Shanghai Climate Week Date: week of April 22 Location: Shanghai, China Event Details: SHCW's mission is to respond to climate change and implement the SDGs. Shanghai Climate Week aims at "China Action, Asia Voice, Global Standard", pushing social forces of engagement in China's Commitment of Carbon Peaking & Carbon Neutering Goals, telling the Chinese story with action plan for climate change, delivering Asia voice for green transformation, enhancing international communication & collaboration on climate change, and participating in layout & implementation of international rules. https://www.climateweekshanghai.org/ EREE 2024 - 2024 6th International Conference on Environment, Resources and Energy Engineering Date: 7-9 November Location: Bali Indonesia Event Details: With increasingly serious environmental pollution, developing an economic, simple and efficient technology of Resources, Environmental & Energy Engineering has now become a hot topic. EREE 2024 is an optimal platform for academic communications, exchange of ideas and inspirations between specialists and scholars in the fields of Environment, Resources and Energy Engineering, including hot issues such as solar energy, natural environment and renewable resources. The event will encourage the exploration of the potential synergies that may arise from pooling the different perspectives. Website: https://www.eree.org/ Africa 14th Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Development Forum Date: 28 Feb to 2 Mar Location: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt Event Details: The three-days forum will cover the three factors of ESG separately. The first day will focus on "Environmental Governance" through tackling a number of relevant topics, topped by establishing a link between the long-term national strategies and the executive strategies of the business community to protect the environment. It will also thrash out risk management files and disclosure related to climate and biodiversity issues as well as Sustainable Finance. The second day concentrates on "Social Governance", through tackling the most general concepts, companies' citizenship practices and means of highlighting the social dimension while preparing sustainability reports and linking it to the other two dimensions. It also focuses on the characteristics and importance of social investment as well as methods and tools for preparing social impact reports, and assessing the social impact and the social return on investment (SROI). The third day discusses "Governance and its role in ensuring sustainable growth" alongside the regulatory frameworks governing disclosure, divulging data transparently, effective internal control (COSO Framework) and integrating sustainability communication into business strategy. The gathering will also review the most important "ESG Framework" reports. Website: https://www.egyptcsrforum.com/ Inogen Alliance Associates HPC Germany and Integral Egypt will be presenting at this conference, find us there! Accelerating Nature-Based Solutions Conference Date: 11-15 March Location: Zambia Event Details: The Global EverGreening Alliance, the Government of Zambia, AFR100, African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA), FSD Africa, and the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, is hosting the world's largest land restoration programming conference, bringing together NGOs, governments, the private sector, technical and scientific experts, and community representatives Website: https://www.acceleratingnbsconference.org/ 2024 Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development Date: 23-25 April Location: TBA Event Details: Organized by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the Forum will provide the space for an in-depth review of the Goals to be reviewed by the HLPF in 2024: SDG 1 (no poverty); SDG 2 (zero hunger); SDG 13 (climate action); SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions); and SDG 17 (partnership for the Goals). The Forum will also support presentation of voluntary national reviews (VNRs) at the 2024 HLPF. Website: https://sdg.iisd.org/events/2024-africa-regional-forum-on-sustainable-development/ ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Africa Conference Date: 1-2 October Location: South Africa, Sandton Convention Centre Event Details: The conference's core theme, "Sustainable Future Through Leadership," underscores the essential role that leaders play in ensuring their organizations align with ESG principles and integrate them into their overall strategy. The founders of the event have done extensive research and developed a programme which is both unique and relevant for an African audience. The conference looks at answering a number of question - How do you make ESG both relevant and applicable in an African context? How do you drive a sustainability mindset within organisations to help embed ESG principles? How do you ensure that people have the adequate knowledge and training as to what ESG is, why it is important and how to make sure organisations drive the change needed to create a more sustainable future? Website: ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Africa Conference Europe ESG Europe Date: February 28-29 Location: London, England Event Details: CeFPro is excited to announce the launch of the 3rd Annual ESG Summit in London on February 28-29, 2024. Over the past year, new challenges have arisen within ESG for banks in Europe and globally. This highly anticipated Summit aims to address these challenges through an impressive speaker faculty of a diverse range of global large and medium-sized institutions. Join senior experts as they discuss their experiences and insight on a range of key topics impacting the industry. If you want to learn how current ESG and climate risk challenges impact firms and wider stakeholders, this event may be a must-attend for you and your colleagues. Website: https://www.cefpro.com/forthcoming-events/esg-europe/ EHS Congress Date: May 22-23 Location: Berlin, Germany Event Details: Flagship health & safety conference in Berlin since 2017 with the latest thinking on safety culture and leadership. Website: https://ehscongress.com/ Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Global Water Stewardship Forum Date: 5-6 June Location: Edinburgh, Scotland Event Details: The AWS Global Water Stewardship Forum is one of the key events in which our community of members, implementers and stakeholders share knowledge and learning on the evolution of water stewardship practice and forge new directions through dialogue and partnerships. Held annually since 2016 in Edinburgh, Scotland, it has become the must-attend event for the international water stewardship community. Website: https://a4ws.org/aws-global-water-stewardship-forum-2024/ Inogen Alliance is an official sponsor and will be attending this event, we hope to see you there! World Biodiversity Forum Date: 16-21 June Location: Davos Congress Centre, Switzerland Event Details: Under the theme From Science to Action, the third World Biodiversity Forum brings together researchers across all disciplines of biodiversity science with practitioners and societal actors to explore how to move from science to actions and solutions to conserve biodiversity and set us on a path towards transformation for sustainability. The third World Biodiversity Forum will be held as an in-person event, once again at the Congress Centre in Davos, Switzerland. The WBF will start with a day of workshops, training sessions and networking meetings on 16 June 2024 and end with excursions in the beautiful surroundings of Davos and its mountains on Friday, 21 June 2024. They will organise satellite events in the lead up to the forum, to broaden the reach and to capture regional perspectives, views and visions. Website: https://worldbiodiversityforum2024.org/ COP29 Date: 11-22 November Location: Baku, Azerbaijan Event Details: The COP is the supreme decision-making body of the Convention. All States that are Parties to the Convention are represented at the COP, at which they review the implementation of the Convention and any other legal instruments that the COP adopts and take decisions necessary to promote the effective implementation of the Convention, including institutional and administrative arrangements. A key task for the COP is to review the national communications and emission inventories submitted by Parties. Based on this information, the COP assesses the effects of the measures taken by Parties and the progress made in achieving the ultimate objective of the Convention. The COP meets every year, unless the Parties decide otherwise. The first COP meeting was held in Berlin, Germany in March, 1995. The COP meets in Bonn, the seat of the secretariat, unless a Party offers to host the session. Just as the COP Presidency rotates among the five recognized UN regions - that is, Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe and Western Europe and Others - there is a tendency for the venue of the COP to also shift among these groups. Inogen Alliance will have a presence again at COP, check out the article on COP28 here with our key insights. Website: (will update with an official website) North America Reuters Responsible Business USA 2024 Date: March 26-27 Location: New York, USA Event Details: Sustainable business is now the imperative. Rising pressures for immediate sustainable action and leadership, increasing legal risks, and complex financial realities are making the effective integration of sustainability across all functions fundamental to long-term business success. This event brings together CEOs, senior sustainability, legal, communications and finance executives to share their actionable ideas and insights on how to collaborate, communicate, and comply to ensure your organization leads on sustainable action. Join to gain the tools to successfully integrate sustainability across core functions, master reporting efficiently and effectively, and engage with key stakeholders for maximum impact. Website: https://events.reutersevents.com/sustainable-business/responsible-business-usa Climate Week NYC Date: 17-24 September Location: New York, USA Event Details: Climate Week NYC is the largest annual climate event of its kind, bringing together over 500 events and activities across the City of New York - in person, hybrid and online. Each year, business leaders, political change makers, local decision takers and civil society representatives of all ages and backgrounds, from all over the world, gather to drive the transition, speed up progress, and champion change that is already happening. Climate Week NYC is hosted by Climate Group, an international non-profit whose purpose is to drive climate action, fast. Climate Group hosts the official program during the week that brings together the most senior international figures from business, government, civil society and the climate sector. 29 Website: https://www.climateweeknyc.org/ Forum24: NAEM EHS & Sustainability Management Forum Date: October 28-30 Location: Fort Worth, Texas Event Details: NAEM's EHS & Sustainability Management Forum is the largest annual gathering for environment, health and safety, and sustainability (EHS&S) decision-makers. Join your peers from leading companies, get exposed to new ideas, and come away energized and ready to implement what you've learned. Website: https://www.naem.org/events/read/2024/10/28/conferences-events/forum24-ehs-sustainability-management-forum Latin America 2024 United Nations Biodiversity Conference Date: 21 October-1 November 2024 Location: Colombia Event Details: Signed by 150 government leaders at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, the Convention on Biological Diversity is dedicated to promoting sustainable development. Conceived as a practical tool for translating the principles of Agenda 21 into reality, the Convention recognizes that biological diversity is about more than plants, animals and micro organisms and their ecosystems - it is about people and our need for food security, medicines, fresh air and water, shelter, and a clean and healthy environment in which to live. Website: https://www.cbd.int/article/colombia-host-cop16 Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Inogen Alliance on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Inogen Alliance Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/inogen-alliance Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Inogen Alliance View the original press release on accesswire.com SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital transformation software and services firm Trianz crossed a significant milestone in its journey in the form of a major growth equity investment from Capital Square Partners (CSP), based out of Singapore. Financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed. In 2020, Trianz concluded from a global digital transformation study that companies worldwide would face three major barriers in their digital evolution: ever-shrinking competitive windows to transform, hard-to-find digital-ready talent, and financial uncertainties. Thus began a journey of its own transformation, with Trianz disrupting its value proposition and business model from pure-play services to an 'IP Led' model. With a vision to deliver the fastest time to value, lowest human dependence, and highest ROI, Trianz built hyper-automated platforms in data and analytics, AI, cloud, and the digital workplace. The company's relentless pursuit of a new model for transformation has resulted in pivotal milestones, beginning with the acquisition of some of its analytics IP by Amazon in late 2021, and the launch of cutting-edge, zero-code, and SaaS platforms in employee experience, cloud, and data transformations, which are now hosted on AWS. The company's flagship platforms-Concierto.Cloud (Migrate, Manage, and Maximize the multi-hybrid cloud); Extrica.AI (Data to AI); and Pulse (Digital Workplace)-deliver industry-leading transformations measured in speed, lower manual efforts, AI, and ROI. Trianz-developed IP is in use by thousands of AWS customers, and its cloud and data/AI platforms see great momentum in partnership with cloud providers. These digital transformation platforms are expected to power over 50% of the company's new revenues moving forward. "The impact of a company's failure to transform on time is enormous on all its stakeholders-customers, partners, employees, leadership, and shareholders. Our 'Digital Platforms Led' model accelerates the reinvention of a company's digital evolution and enables new value propositions which automatically propel it forward," said Sri Manchala, CEO of Trianz. "Our 'IP-Led' model relies on zero-code, SaaS platforms to revolutionize the cloud, data, and employee journeys for companies from global to emerging enterprises across industries. These being hosted on AWS with Extrica.AI now certified and listed on the AWS Marketplace signifies the robustness of our platforms. And undoubtedly, customer success from this new approach gives us enormous pride, satisfaction, and motivation to do more." The transformative journey of Trianz itself over the past few years has been remarkable. Trianz thought differently during an unprecedented pandemic and global uncertainties and executed relentlessly. Rajeev Srivastava and Mukesh Sharda, Managing Partners of CSP, jointly said, "We are excited and proud to join forces with Trianz as it shapes a new model for digital transformations for companies worldwide." "We have turned a vision we outlined in 2021 into a reality today. This financial partnership with CSP comes at a time when private equity investments into tech-enabled services have shrunk significantly over the past two years. It is a testimony of the success we are delivering to customers and a result of the efforts of Trianz leaders and associates and guidance from our board," said Sri. "We consummated this partnership with CSP based on the efforts they made to understand the Trianz business, customers, our paradigm shift, and their commitment towards creating an environment that fosters innovation and rapid scaling. Even as we celebrate this success, we recognize the responsibility that comes with it. Trianz will continue pushing boundaries in becoming a leader in digital transformations, delivering value, and setting new benchmarks in the industry," added Sri. About Trianz Founded in California and with an organization of over 2,000 associates across the United States and India, Trianz accelerates the digital evolution of companies from strategy through execution and sustenance. Based on a vision outlined in his book, 'Crossing the Digital Faultline: 10 Rules of Highly Successful Leaders,' and an interview with Bloomberg Quint, Sri and the leadership team at Trianz have created a unique, multi-disciplinary, and IP-Led model which enables client transitions to new value propositions, digitalized processes, and great stakeholder experiences utilizing analytics, digital, cloud, infrastructure, and cybersecurity technologies. Trianz is a Premier Partner of AWS, and its portfolio of technologies and services has been rated #1 for business impact by a Fortune 1000 client base for five years in a row. Trianz has been ranked as one of the best Consulting Firms by Forbes and has been certified as a Great Place to Work for three years in a row. To learn more about Trianz, email reach@trianz.com or visit www.trianz.com. Sri Manchala's interview with Bloomberg can be viewed on Partner | Crossing The Digital Faultline & Leading Towards Transformative Success - YouTube . More information about Crossing the Digital Faultline can be found at Crossing the Digital Faultline | Trianz. About Capital Square Partners Founded in 2014 in Singapore, CSP is a private equity firm investing in cross-border technology and business services across Southeast Asia and India. As a sector-focused fund manager with $1.5 billion under management, CSP is one of the largest dedicated technology and technology-enabled business services private equity fund managers in Asia. Over the past decade, the team has invested, created, and exited a number of leading companies in the technology services sector, including Minacs, Indecomm, GAVS Technologies and Accion Labs. CSP holds a Capital Markets Services (CMS) License from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. www.capitalsquarepartners.com About the Transaction The investment transaction with Capital Square Partners was led entirely by the corporate development team at Trianz. Legal advice was provided by Menon Associates (India) and Greenberg Traurig (London, UK). Trianz Media Team media.contact@trianz.com +1-408-387-5800 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/626944/1199800/Trianz_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/trianz-announces-strategic-growth-capital-investment-by-capital-square-partners-302067359.html Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Artificial Intelligence is making its way into North American institutions of higher learning. ConverSolo Inc., the AI language learning software company, reports that it has been contracted by Montmorency College, Vanier College, and the University of Sherbrooke, all Quebec-based institutions, to develop AI-powered learning materials through its Bokomaru Publications business division. At Montmorency College, ConverSolo Inc. will provide Learning Tool Interoperability (LTI) links to conversational robots which will integrate with the college's Moodle website. ConverSolo is to supply 10 LTI modules that will automatically generate a score and video-feedback to students on their performance on communication tasks related to insurance and finance. The AI-powered solution will provide students with interactive oral practice using their webcams and intelligent video-feedback on interactions with simulated clients. To ensure students meet the performance standards, students will practice with listen-and-repeat exercises before receiving feedback on the comprehensibility of industry keywords, overall sentence comprehensibility, phoneme accuracy, and rate of speech. The contract is believed to be among the first of its kind in the North American educational milieu. "Montmorency chose us to develop the AI-powered training materials after an exhaustive search for a supplier. We were the only company that was able to offer the kind of intelligent oral tutoring system that they were seeking," said ConverSolo and Bokomaru CEO, Nicholas Walker. ConverSolo has been engaged by Vanier College in a pilot project to develop custom AI-powered writing and speaking tutoring systems for students learning their second language. Similarly, the University of Sherbrooke has tasked ConverSolo to create language training activities on Labodanglais.com to prepare students for teacher certification on a province-wide English proficiency test. Using a blend of artificial intelligence to score complex writing tasks and more traditional language training activities online, ConverSolo is able to support learners develop complex skills quickly and asynchronously. Bokomaru Publications, a business division of ConverSolo Inc., was founded in 2010. It specializes in offering automated evaluation and AI-powered intelligent tutoring systems like VirtualWritingTutor.com and Labodanglais.com. In addition to being CEO of ConverSolo Inc., Nicholas Walker is a professor at College Ahuntsic in Montreal. Nicholas Walker has an M.A. in Applied Linguistics. He is a five-time award-winning instructional designer. He has been awarded the Canadian Sesquicentennial Pin for leadership in Education, the TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) Canada Innovation Award, the SPEAQ Award for outstanding contributions to ESL, the AQPC Mention d'Honneur for teaching excellence and, the Institutional Recognition for Computer Assisted Learning. ConverSolo, through its various websites, currently has 75,000 memberships (free and paid), 100,000 users per month, and 1 million visitors per year. His software can also score essays, stories, cover letters, emails and literary critiques with 340 unique automated writing evaluations. About ConverSolo: ConverSolo Inc. is a private, Montreal-based company that has developed an AI-powered learning software that teaches users pronunciation within an oral exchange, one of the key factors in successful language acquisition. This powerful web-based software is in the process of being scaled up to address the needs of consumers and a broad range of industries that will include the development of a consumer-market website and mobile app. ConverSolo currently provides consumers, students and teachers with on-line language learning software powered by AI-modules, offered through VirtualWritingTutor.com and Labodanglais.com, LabodeFrancais.com. The company also publishes and markets print-based and on-line textbooks for students and teachers. For more information on the technology, please contact Nicholas Walker: nicholas@conversolo.com T. +1-514-690-2953 For investor and media relations, please contact Robert Kramberger: robert@conversolo.com T +1-514-758-8080 Website: www.conversolo.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198726 SOURCE: ConverSolo Inc. Annual revenue of 319.0m in 2023, with organic growth of 5.8% compared to 2022 ? Solid ARR growth up 6.6% vs. end 2022, reaching 228.7m ? Margin on operating activities up 500 basis points year-on-year to 19.7% of revenue, or 62.8m ? Progressive increase in free cash flow, in line with forecasts, representing 6% of revenue over the year Regulatory News: Axway Software's (Paris:AXW) Board of Directors today conducted an in-depth review of the consolidated and annual financial statements1 for the year ended December 31, 2023. As a consequence, Axway's management team announces: Axway Software: 2023 Full-year results Key income statement items* 2023 2022 (m) (% Rev) (m) (% Rev) Revenue 319.0 314.0 Organic growth + 5.8% Growth at constant exchange rates + 3.0% Total growth + 1.6% Profit on Operating Activities 62.8 19.7% 46.3 14.7% Profit from Recurring Operations 55.4 17.4% 37.4 11.9% Operating Profit 47.6 14.9% -46.4 -14.8% Net Profit attributable to the Group 35.8 11.2% -40.0 -12.8% Basic earnings per share (in ) 1.71 -1.85 * Alternative performance measures are defined in the glossary at the end of this document Patrick Donovan, Chief Executive Officer, declared: "For Axway, 2023 marked the conclusion of a strategic plan that has focused the efforts of our teams over the last 3 years. Today, I can proudly say that together we have been successful in Axway's development over this period. This positive dynamic is the fruit of several fundamental evolutions. We have built a high-performance, subscription-based business model focused on our main product lines. Around our products, we have put in place an aligned organization, by product and by region, which has not only improved customer satisfaction, but also strengthened the engagement of our employees. These elements are reflected in a significant improvement in our results, which not only exceed our commitments, but above all enable us to project ourselves towards the next stage of our enterprise project, supported by a strong financial situation. Although the comparison basis of Q4 2022 was not matched in Q4 2023, the company exceeded its internal forecasts at the end of the year. Bookings, in particular of Customer Managed subscription contracts, were higher than anticipated and accelerated our revenue recognition. While this accounting effect turned out to be favorable in 2023, on a like-for-like basis, Axway's normative performance projections remain unchanged." Comments on business activity in 2023 In 2023, in a market that is steadily accelerating towards the cloud, Axway has taken advantage of its renewed business model to consolidate its position as a leading publisher in the management of critical data flows. The company has continued to offer large enterprises high-performance, secure software solutions capable of supporting their development over the long term. Axway's year was punctuated by several highlights, including A new revenue and profitability high for the company, which for the year benefited from a record level of customer satisfaction, with a Net Promoter Score of 37, compared with 35 at the end of the prior year. This performance is a direct result of the day-to-day commitment of Axway's employees who, in a context of major organizational evolution, have been focusing for several years on continuous improvement of customer experience with Axway's products and services. The maximization of customer use of Axway's products and the extension of contract durations were confirmed. These trends perfectly reflect the consistency of the matrix structure that the company has adopted, with management by product and by geography. Over the year, the total value of bookings increased by 5.1% compared with 2022, while more than 100 new customers chose Axway to accompany them in their digital transformation projects. Axway's products and vision in its different technology markets have once again been awarded in 2023. For the 8th time in its history, Axway has been recognized among the world leaders in the API Management market in the 2023 edition of the Gartner Magic Quadrant for API Management. In parallel, the API Management, B2B Integration and MFT offerings, which make up 3 of Axway's 4 main product lines, were each named leaders in their respective categories in the Winter 2024 reports of the G2 global evaluation platform for enterprise solutions. After refocusing its product portfolio in 2022 by disengaging from activities that were no longer aligned with its growth and profitability objectives, Axway adopted a more offensive strategy in 2023 by consolidating 2 new companies within its scope. In late March, Axway acquired Belgian company AdValvas, a European expert in electronic invoicing processes, whose offerings immediately strengthened the B2B product line. Over a 9-month period, the order book grew steadily, reflecting strong interest in certified expertise in the PEPPOL network. Then, in mid-October, Axway finalized the acquisition of French company Cycom Finances and its accounting mapping solution, PaE. This acquisition, which complements Axway's Financial Accounting Hub (AFAH) offering, led to the establishment of a strategic partnership with KPMG in France, and generated, just a few weeks after its completion, a first significant signature with a leading European banking institution. At a time when Axway has set itself ambitious external growth targets for the coming years, the company's objective is to maintain an agile portfolio of high-performance products, capable of keeping pace with the rapid evolution of its industry. Comments on operational performance in 2023 In 2023, Axway's revenue totaled 319.0m, up 5.8% organically and 1.6% in total. Changes in the consolidation scope, mainly due to the rationalization of the product portfolio in 2022, had a negative impact of 8.2m for the year. Currency fluctuations, notably the depreciation of the US dollar against the euro, also had a negative impact of 4.4m on full-year revenue. Profit on operating activity rose once again, reaching 62.8m for the year, or 19.7% of revenues, compared with 14.7% in 2022. Axway Software: Revenue by business line Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Restated* 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 8.8 10.2 11.6 23.8% 13.7% Subscription 186.6 146.5 154.0 + 21.2% + 27.4% Maintenance 87.0 107.9 111.2 21.7% 19.4% Services 36.5 36.8 37.3 2.1% 0.6% Axway Software 319.0 301.4 314.0 + 1.6% + 5.8% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates License activity revenue totaled 8.8m for the year, down 13.7% organically. In line with expectations, after several years of contraction linked to the rise of subscription-based offers, license sales gradually stabilized during the year, and are now mainly driven by a specialized product. It is reported that revenue returned to growth in Q3 and Q4, although this was not enough to offset the decline recorded in H1. Nevertheless, the trend reversal observed points to a more balanced 2024 outlook. The Subscription activity maintained a very solid momentum throughout 2023. With organic growth of over 50% in the first 9 months of the year, the activity was faced with a record comparison basis at the end of the year. This did not prevent further organic growth of 1.8% in Q4 2023, enabling the activity to achieve annual revenue of 186.6m, up 27.4% on 2022. Several major Customer Managed signatures enabled the company to exceed its revenue forecast in year-end. For the full year, upfront revenue from Customer Managed subscription contracts amounted to 93.4m, compared with 78.7m in 2022. The annual value of new subscription contracts (ACV) signed reached 49.9m in 2023, an increase of 1.4%. Maintenance revenue reached 87.0m in 2023, down 21.7% overall and 19.4% organically. While the contract renewal rate reached 94%, the decline in activity was mainly due to lower license sales and the continued migration of customers to subscription-based offers. At the end of December 2023, Axway's ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) which combines recurring revenues from all active Maintenance and Subscription contracts, including, where applicable, upfront subscription revenue recalculated monthly, was 228.7m, up 6.6%2 at constant scope and exchange rates. In addition, revenue from renewable contracts reached 86% of total revenue in 2023. The Services activity was virtually stable compared with the previous year, with annual revenue of 36.5m (-0.6%). The activity was mainly supported by several major MFT migration projects across Europe. As expected, Services are now stabilizing at between 10 and 15% of Axway's total revenue. Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Restated* 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 99.9 90.9 91.6 + 9.0% + 9.9% Rest of Europe 76.1 67.8 68.4 + 11.2% + 12.1% Americas 126.4 123.1 133.3 5.1% + 2.7% Asia/Pacific 16.6 19.6 20.8 20.0% 15.3% Axway Software 319.0 301.4 314.0 + 1.6% + 5.8% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates In France, Axway achieved revenue of 99.9m in 2023 thanks to dynamic organic growth of 9.9%. In the country, activity was driven by the acceleration of migrations to subscription-based offers, and by a significant increase in usage across all product lines in the portfolio. Proof of the excellent sales momentum, the value of bookings from new customers rose by 43% over the year. The Rest of Europe region also reported a marked increase in revenue in 2023. Sales reached 76.1m, up 12.1% on the previous year. This good performance was made possible by growth in the region's largest countries, particularly Germany, where the new organization and focus on sales continue to produce excellent results. The Americas (USA Latin America) recorded revenue of 126.4m in 2023, representing 40% of Axway's total annual revenue. In the region, business grew organically by 2.7% over the year. While in North America, Axway once again benefited from its leadership in the MFT market to strengthen its positions against its main competitors, in Latin America the Amplify API management offering underpinned performance. In Asia/Pacific, Axway posted annual revenue of 16.6m, down 15.3% organically. In contrast to the previous year, in 2023 customers in the region favored Axway Managed subscription contracts, which represented 55% of bookings. Although these contracts do not generate immediate revenue recognition, they do generate income throughout their term. Comments on 2023 net profit Profit from recurring operations was 55.4m in 2023, or 17.4% of revenue, compared to 11.9% the previous year. It includes amortization of allocated intangible assets of 3.2m and a share-based payment expense of 4.2m. Operating profit for the year was 47.6m, or 14.9% of revenue. Net profit for the year was 35.8m, representing 11.2% of revenue. Basic earnings per share were 1.71. Financial position at December 31, 2023 At December 31, 2023, Axway's financial position was solid, with cash of 16.7m and bank debt of 92.3m. Free cash flow was 18.8m in 2023, compared to 2.2m a year earlier. As anticipated, the accumulation of annually-billed subscription contracts improved net cash flow from operating activities. Shareholders' equity stood at 346.3m at December 31, 2023, compared to 327.8m at the end of 2022. Change in the workforce At December 31, 2023, Axway had 1,465 employees compared to 1,525 at December 31, 2022. Proposed dividend for fiscal year 2023 Axway's Board of Directors will not propose the payment of a dividend in respect of the 2023 financial year. 2024 Targets For 2024, Axway anticipates organic growth of between 1% and 3%, and a profit on operating activity of around 20% of revenue. Today, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 6.30 p.m. (UTC+1): 2023 Full-Year Results Virtual Analyst Conference Virtual Conference Registration: Click here Or join by phone by dialing one of the numbers below: France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66 ? USA: +1 786 697 3501 ? International: +44 (0) 33 0551 0200 Please note that the meeting will be held in English. Financial calendar Monday, March 25, 2024: Filing of the 2023 Universal Registration Document Thursday, April 25, 2024, before market opening: Publication of Q1 2024 Revenue Thursday, May 16, 2024, 2:30 p.m. (UTC+2): Annual Shareholders' Meeting Tuesday, July 23, 2024, after market closing: Publication of 2023 Half-Year Results Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 6:30 p.m. (UTC+2): 2023 Half-Year Results Virtual Analyst Conference Thursday, October 24, 2024, before market opening: Publication of Q3 2024 Revenue Glossary Alternative performance measures ACV: Annual Contract Value Annual contract value of a subscription agreement. ARR: Annual Recurring Revenue Expected annual billing amounts from all active maintenance and subscription agreements. Employee Engagement Score: Measurement of employee engagement through an independent annual survey. Growth at constant exchange rates: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period restated for exchange rate impacts. NPS: Net Promoter Score Customer satisfaction and recommendation indicator for a company. Organic growth: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period, restated for consolidation scope and exchange rate impacts. Profit on operating activities: Profit from recurring operations adjusted for the non-cash share-based payment expense, as well as the amortization of allocated intangible assets. Restated revenue: Revenue for the prior year, adjusted for the consolidation scope and exchange rates of the current year. TCV: Total Contract Value Full contracted value of a subscription agreement over the contract term. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements that may be subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning Axway's growth and profitability, notably in the event of future acquisitions. Axway highlights that signature of contracts, which represent investments for customers, are more significant in the second half of the year and may therefore have a more or less favorable impact on full-year performance. In addition, Axway notes that potential acquisition(s) could also impact this financial data. Furthermore, activity during the year and/or actual results may differ from those described in this document as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers, AMF) on March 24, 2023. The distribution of this document in certain countries may be subject to prevailing laws and regulations. Natural persons present in these countries and in which this document is disseminated, published, or distributed, should obtain information about such restrictions, and comply with them. About Axway Axway enables enterprises to securely open everything by integrating and moving data across a complex world of new and old technologies. Axway's API-driven B2B integration and MFT software, refined over 20 years, complements Axway Amplify, an open API management platform that makes APIs easier to discover and reuse across multiple teams, vendors, and cloud environments. Axway has helped over 11,000 businesses unlock the full value of their existing digital ecosystems to create brilliant experiences, innovate new services, and reach new markets. Learn more at axway.com Appendices (1/5) Axway Software: Revenue by business line 1st Quarter 2023 (m) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Restated* Q1 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 2.1 3.5 3.7 -42.6% -39.5% Subscription 37.8 24.7 26.4 43.1% 53.1% Maintenance 22.5 27.9 27.9 -19.5% -19.6% Services 9.5 9.0 9.0 6.1% 5.4% Axway Software 71.8 65.1 66.9 7.3% 10.3% 2nd Quarter 2023 (m) Q2 2023 Q2 2022 Restated* Q2 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 0.9 1.9 2.6 -66.6% -54.8% Subscription 40.9 27.6 29.5 38.7% 48.2% Maintenance 22.1 27.2 28.1 -21.3% -18.6% Services 9.7 9.1 9.3 4.5% 6.0% Axway Software 73.6 65.9 69.5 5.9% 11.7% 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Restated* Q3 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 2.7 1.9 2.3 16.2% 41.8% Subscription 37.0 24.6 27.4 35.2% 50.7% Maintenance 21.1 26.6 28.3 -25.3% -20.7% Services 8.6 9.2 9.6 -10.4% -7.2% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% 4th Quarter 2023 (m) Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Restated* Q4 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 3.2 2.9 3.0 + 6.6% + 9.1% Subscription 71.0 69.7 70.7 + 0.3% + 1.8% Maintenance 21.3 26.1 26.9 20.8% 18.5% Services 8.8 9.4 9.5 7.9% 6.5% Axway Software 104.2 108.1 110.1 - 5.4% - 3.6% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Appendices (2/5) Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area 1st Quarter 2023 (m) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Restated* Q1 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 24.7 17.9 18.1 36.2% 38.3% Rest of Europe 13.5 12.6 13.2 1.7% 6.9% Americas 30.9 29.3 30.3 1.9% 5.2% Asia/Pacific 2.8 5.3 5.3 -46.8% -47.4% Axway Software 71.8 65.1 66.9 7.3% 10.3% 2nd Quarter 2023 (m) Q2 2023 Q2 2022 Restated* Q2 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 20.8 19.4 19.6 6.0% 7.2% Rest of Europe 22.2 14.0 14.0 58.7% 58.8% Americas 26.4 27.4 30.5 -13.6% -3.6% Asia/Pacific 4.3 5.2 5.4 -20.7% -17.3% Axway Software 73.6 65.9 69.5 5.9% 11.7% 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Restated* Q3 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 19.7 14.8 15.1 30.4% 32.4% Rest of Europe 15.7 14.6 14.7 7.0% 7.9% Americas 29.8 28.7 32.8 -9.1% 4.0% Asia/Pacific 4.2 4.2 5.0 -15.9% -0.7% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% 4th Quarter 2023 (m) Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Restated* Q4 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 34.7 38.8 38.8 10.4% 10.4% Rest of Europe 24.7 26.7 26.5 6.8% 7.5% Americas 39.3 37.7 39.6 0.8% + 4.4% Asia/Pacific 5.3 4.9 5.1 + 4.7% + 9.4% Axway Software 104.2 108.1 110.1 - 5.4% - 3.6% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Appendices (3/5) Axway Software: Consolidated Income Statement Full-year 2023 2023 2022 2021 m Rev. m Rev. m Rev. Revenue 319.0 314.0 285.5 of which License 8.8 11.6 18.6 of which Subscription 186.6 154.0 114.2 of which Maintenance 87.0 111.2 119.0 Sub-total Products 282.4 276.7 251.7 Services 36.5 37.3 33.8 Cost of sales 87.2 91.4 83.3 of which License and Maintenance 24.1 26.4 24.6 of which Subscription 28.2 29.4 27.0 of which Services 34.9 35.6 31.7 Gross profit 231.7 72.7% 222.6 70.9% 202.3 70.8% Operating expenses 168.9 176.4 169.4 of which Sales and marketing 81.6 93.2 89.0 of which Research and development 60.1 57.3 55.3 of which General and administrative 27.2 25.9 25.0 Profit on operating activities 62.8 19.7% 46.3 14.7% 32.9 11.5% Stock option expense -4.2 -3.4 -4.4 Amortization of intangible assets -3.2 -5.5 -8.6 Profit from recurring operations 55.4 17.4% 37.4 11.9% 19.9 7.0% Other income and expenses -7.9 -83.8 -2.7 Operating profit 47.6 14.9% -46.4 -14.8% 17.3 6.1% Cost of net financial debt -4.6 -2.1 -1.3 Other financial revenues and expenses -0.2 1.0 0.5 Income taxes -7.0 7.4 -6.9 Net profit 35.8 11.2% -40.0 -12.8% 9.6 3.4% Basic earnings per share (in ) 1.71 -1.85 0.45 Appendices (4/5) Axway Software: Simplified Balance Sheet Full-year 2023 31/12/2023 31/12/2022 31/12/2021 (m) (m) (m) Assets Goodwill 302.1 297.8 348.3 Intangible assets 5.1 8.7 15.1 Property, plant and equipment 9.3 12.5 14.3 Lease right-of-use assets 17.8 20.1 23.5 Other non-current assets 33.2 34.9 23.4 Non-current assets 367.6 374.0 424.6 Trade receivables 178.0 148.1 105.1 Other current assets 32.3 30.6 27.8 Cash and cash equivalents 16.7 18.3 25.4 Current assets 227.0 197.1 158.3 Total Assets 594.6 571.1 582.9 Equity and Liabilities Share capital 43.3 43.3 43.3 Reserves and net profit 303.0 284.5 328.9 Total Equity 346.3 327.8 372.2 Financial debt long-term portion 88.0 84.6 60.1 Lease liabilities long-term portion 19.7 23.5 27.2 Other non-current liabilities 16.5 11.7 13.6 Non-current liabilities 124.2 119.8 100.9 Financial debt short-term portion 4.3 3.2 1.7 Lease liabilities short-term portion 4.0 5.8 6.2 Deferred Revenues 49.1 55.6 55.8 Other current liabilities 66.7 58.9 46.0 Current liabilities 124.1 123.5 109.8 Total Liabilities 248.3 243.3 210.7 Total Equity and Liabilities 594.6 571.1 582.9 Appendices (5/5) Axway Software: Cash Flow Statement Full-year 2023 2023 2022 2021 (m) (m) (m) Net profit for the period 35.8 -40.0 9.6 Net charges to amortization, depreciation and provisions 19.3 16.5 20.2 Other income and expense items 1.4 85.3 3.9 Cash from operations after cost of net debt and tax 56.6 61.8 33.7 Change in operating working capital requirements (incl. employee benefits liability) -32.9 -41.0 -26.2 Cost of net financial debt 4.6 2.1 1.3 Income tax paid net of accrual 3.9 -10.0 4.1 Net cash from operating activities 32.1 13.0 12.9 Net cash used in investing activities -12.6 -11.1 -2.8 Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 2.0 Purchases and proceeds from disposal of treasury shares -4.8 -13.7 -9.5 Dividends paid -8.4 -8.5 -8.6 Change in loans 3.4 20.7 21.5 Change in lease liabilities -7.2 -7.2 -6.7 Net interest paid -3.7 -1.2 -0.6 Other flows -0.4 0.6 0.1 Net cash from (used in) financing activities -21.1 -9.4 -1.7 Effect of foreign exchange rate changes -0.2 0.7 0.7 Net change in cash and cash equivalents -1.8 -6.9 9.0 Opening cash position 18.3 25.2 16.2 Closing cash position 16.5 18.3 25.2 Axway Software: Impact on revenue of changes in scope and exchange rates Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Growth Revenue 319.0 314.0 + 1.6% Changes in exchange rates -4.4 Revenue at constant exchange rates 319.0 309.6 + 3.0% Changes in scope -8.2 Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates 319.0 301.4 + 5.8% Axway Software: Changes in exchange rates Full-year 2023 For 1 Average rate 2023 Average rate 2022 Change US Dollar 1.081 1.053 2.6% ______________________________ 1 Audit procedures have been carried out on the financial statements. The Statutory Auditors' report is in the process of being issued. 2 Axway's ARR to end 2022 has been restated to take account of a change in methodology, and thus amounts to 214.5m. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221248504/en/ Contacts: Investor Relations: Arthur Carli +33 (0)1 47 17 24 65 acarli@axway.com Following its successful inclusion in the Genesys AppFoundry in Europe, Cognigy, a global leader in Conversational AI, is excited to announce its expansion into the Genesys AppFoundry Marketplace in North America. This strategic move amplifies Cognigy's commitment to delivering state-of-the-art Conversational AI solutions to businesses across the globe. Hardy Myers, SVP Business Development and Strategy at Cognigy, expressed his enthusiasm about this development, stating, "Our inclusion in the Genesys AppFoundry North America is another major milestone in our global expansion strategy. We are thrilled to collaborate with Genesys to offer our revolutionary Conversational AI solutions to businesses across North America, enabling them to provide exceptional customer experiences and optimize their operations." Key benefits of this new listing include: Extended Reach: Cognigy.AI is now accessible to a broader range of businesses, enhancing customer service capabilities across North America. Cognigy.AI is now accessible to a broader range of businesses, enhancing customer service capabilities across North America. Streamlined Integration: Businesses can swiftly integrate Cognigy.AI with Genesys Cloud CX, enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement. Businesses can swiftly integrate Cognigy.AI with Genesys Cloud CX, enhancing operational efficiency and customer engagement. Superior Customer Experience: Leveraging Cognigy's advanced Conversational AI, companies can deliver personalized, human-like interactions, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty. "We are pleased to add Cognigy to the Genesys North American AppFoundry, reflecting the global nature of our partnership and further acceleration of our joint mission to help organizations create personalized experiences that drive customer satisfaction and loyalty," said Juergen Tolksdorf, Senior Director, Marketplace Innovation at Genesys. Cognigy is a sponsoring partner of Genesys Inspire in Maryland from February 26-28. To leverage the power of Cognigy.AI via the Genesys AppFoundry North America, visit Genesys AppFoundry. About Cognigy Cognigy is revolutionizing the customer service industry by providing the most cutting-edge AI workforce on the market. Its award-winning solution empowers businesses to deliver exceptional customer service that is instant, personalized, in any language, and on any channel. Through the perfect combination of Generative and Conversational AI, Cognigy's AI Agents are shaping the future of customer service, increasing customer satisfaction, and supporting employees in real-time. Over 1000 brands worldwide trust Cognigy and its vast partner network to create AI customer service agents for their business. Cognigy's worldwide customer portfolio includes Bosch, Frontier Airlines, Lufthansa Group, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota. Follow the company on Twitter (X) @Cognigy and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/cognigy. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221858048/en/ Contacts: Stephanie Olsen Lages Associates (949) 453-8080 stephanie@lages.com Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, February 21 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 21 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 21 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 : 25,000 Weighted average purchase price paid : 346.5 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 346.5 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 346.5 pence per share Following the above transaction, the Company's issued share capital consists of 246,091,423 ordinary shares of 50p each, of which 19,190,071 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 226,901,352 which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as incorporated into UK domestic law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the Company's buyback programme. Schedule of Purchase - Individual Transaction (as at 21 February 2024) Number of shares purchased Transaction price (GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 25,000 346.50 15:49:52 00068955712TRLO0 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: Regulatory News: Axway (Paris:AXW) today announces entering into exclusive discussions regarding the potential acquisition of most of Sopra Banking Software ("SBS") activities, which are currently part of Sopra Steria Group. This acquisition would fit perfectly Axway's medium-term strategic roadmap, as outlined by the company over the last few years, creating a new enterprise software house with critical scale. Axway is constantly analyzing the different strategic options open to the company to ensure the success of its growth and profitability roadmap. In this respect, the acquisition of most of SBS activities would represent a unique opportunity for Axway to expand its product portfolio and continue its development by capitalizing on its recent performance. SBS, a recognized provider of banking and financial software, would benefit from the scale and experience of a global software structure that has already transitioned to a subscription-based business model. Axway and SBS already share a large part of their DNA. Both companies were born within Sopra Steria Group and have a common set of values, built around an independent enterprise project and a strong commitment to sustainable value creation for their stakeholders. Many mutual customers testify, through their loyalty, to the solidity of this relationship. Axway is also an OEM partner of SBS through its API Management offering, and has for many years enriched the functionalities of SBS applications with its integration solutions. If completed, the combination would give rise to a new enterprise software house with critical scale, able to meet banking application and integration needs with increased firepower and visibility thanks to the expertise of around 5,000 employees worldwide. The SBS activities concerned by the operation generated revenue of around 340m in 2023, representing around 80% of the subsidiary's total revenue. The combined entity would achieve revenue of around 650m, well beyond Axway's medium-term ambition as the company will be more than doubling its current revenue. Axway would acquire the SBS activities concerned by the operation for an enterprise value of 330m. This value is subject to confirmatory due diligence and will be reviewed by an independent expert (Cabinet Finexsi1). Axway intends to finance the contemplated transaction through the combination of a c.130m capital increase with preferential subscription rights2 and new debt facilities for the balance, for which Axway has received a comfort letter from Societe Generale and Groupe Credit Agricole, two of its relationship banks. As part of the contemplated transaction, in order to secure its financing and guarantee the long-term independence of the new combined entity, Sopra GMT, which is the controlling shareholder of Axway, has informed the company of its intention to: Acquire from Sopra Steria Group, as part of a global and indivisible transaction, a block of c.3.6m Axway shares, representing c.16.7% of Axway's capital, at a price per Axway share equal to 26.5, and all of Sopra Steria Group's residual preferential subscription rights; Subscribe to Axway's capital increase on an irreducible basis to the extent of its rights and those acquired from Sopra Steria Group, representing approximately 53% of the planned capital increase; Secure the remainder of the rights issue by subscribing any shares that would remain unsubscribed at the end of the allocation process. It is specified that the financing of Sopra GMT undertakings as described above will be carried out with the support of One Equity Partners, which intends to become a minority shareholder of Sopra GMT, advanced discussions with a view to concluding a binding agreement are underway. Sopra Steria granted exclusive rights to Axway and Sopra GMT to negotiate the envisaged transactions. Conditions to reaching binding agreements relating to the envisaged transactions and, subsequently, for the completion of these transactions, include, inter alia, satisfactory confirmatory due diligence, the implementation of the information and consultation procedure with the employee representative bodies of the different entities involved in the transactions, the obtaining of the necessary regulatory approvals, the approval of the Boards of Directors of Sopra GMT, Sopra Steria and Axway on the basis of satisfactory reports from independent experts on the contemplated valuation of SBS and Axway, the satisfactory negotiation of the transaction documents, the obtaining of waivers from the AMF concerning the filing of a mandatory tender offer on Sopra Steria and on Axway3, as well as the AMF approval of the prospectus to be submitted by Axway in connection with the aforementioned capital increase. The objective is to close these operations before the end of Q2 2024 or, at the latest, during Q3 2024. Pierre Pasquier, Chairman of Axway, Sopra Steria and Sopra GMT, declared: "Axway's proposed acquisition of most of SBS's activities represents an undeniable strategic opportunity for both companies. Together, they would consolidate values, expertise and organizations that already have a lot in common, and would mutually benefit from each other. The creation of this strong critically-sized enterprise software house would support an independent and successful entrepreneurial project over the long term. Furthermore, by welcoming One Equity Partners to Sopra GMT's capital, we will be in a better position, through our role as reference shareholder, to support the combined entity in its future external growth objectives. In addition to the fact that Sopra Steria would retain a significant stake in Axway's capital, all the operations envisaged would significantly strengthen the strategic partnership between the two Groups, particularly in financial services, and more generally in Europe, where they share a large portfolio of customers." Axway will provide further information to the financial community at its 2023 annual results presentation meetings taking place today, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. The virtual conference organized by the company on this occasion and its replay will be accessible here Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank is acting as financial advisor to Axway. Societe Generale is acting as financial advisor to Sopra Steria Group. Messier Associes is acting as financial advisor to Sopra GMT. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements that may be subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning Axway's growth and profitability. Activity during the year and/or actual results may differ from those described in this document as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers, AMF) on March 24, 2023. The distribution of this document in certain countries may be subject to prevailing laws and regulations. Persons present in these countries and in which this document is disseminated, published, or distributed, should obtain information about such restrictions, and comply with them. About Sopra Banking Software Sopra Banking Software (SBS) is a global financial technology company that's helping banks and the financial services industry to reimagine how to operate in an increasingly digital world. SBS is a trusted partner of more than 650 financial institutions and large-scale lenders in 80 countries worldwide. Its cloud platform offers clients a composable architecture to digitize operations, ranging from banking, lending, compliance, to payments, and consumer and asset finance. SBS is recognized as a Top 10 European Fintech company by IDC and as a leader in Omdia's Universe: Digital Banking Platforms. About Axway Axway enables enterprises to securely open everything by integrating and moving data across a complex world of new and old technologies. Axway's API-driven B2B integration and MFT software, refined over 20 years, complements Axway Amplify, an open API management platform that makes APIs easier to discover and reuse across multiple teams, vendors, and cloud environments. Axway has helped over 11,000 businesses unlock the full value of their existing digital ecosystems to create brilliant experiences, innovate new services, and reach new markets. Learn more at axway.com 1 Subject to the right of objection of the Autorite des marches financiers, as provided for in Article 261-1-1 of its general regulation. 2 The subscription price per new Axway share will be determined at the time of launch of the rights issue, according to standard market practice, and will include a customary discount to the Theoretical Ex-Rights Price (TERP). Taking into account the discount to TERP, the subscription price will be not higher than 26.5. 3 One Equity Partners would, as a result of its acquisition of a stake in Sopra GMT, indirectly in concert, exceeds the thresholds of 30% of Sopra Steria's voting rights and 30% of Axway' share capital and voting rights. In connection with this acquisition, it will be asked to the AMF to grant waivers to the mandatory filing of a tender offer on Sopra Steria and on Axway on the basis of Articles 234-7, 1 and 234-7, 2 of the AMF's general regulation. Sopra GMT, individually, (i) would, as a result of the acquisition of Axway shares from Sopra Steria, exceed the thresholds of 30% of Axway' share capital and voting rights and (ii) would, as a result of its participation in Axway's capital increase, increase its stake in Axway' share capital and voting rights by more than 1% within a period of less than twelve consecutive months; a waiver to the mandatory filing of a tender offer on Axway will also be requested from the AMF on the basis of article 234-9, 6 of the AMF's general regulation. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221819993/en/ Contacts: Investor Relations: Arthur Carli +33 (0)1 47 17 24 65 acarli@axway.com Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, February 21 For immediate release 21 February 2024 FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC (the "Company") MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES The Company announces that it has today purchased 234,567 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 855.00 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 33,015,517; 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 191,975,786. The figure of 191,975,786 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 BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, February 21 BH Macro Limited (the "Company") (a closed-ended collective investment scheme established as a company with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registered number 46235) Transaction in Own Shares 21 February 2024 BH Macro Limited (the Company) announces today it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange from J.P. Morgan Securities plc: Ordinary Shares: - Share Class Sterling Date of purchase: 21 February 2024 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 53,644 Lowest price per share 356.5 Highest price per share 359.5 Trading venue LSE Aggregate volume per date per trading venue: 53,644 Weighted average price per day per trading venue: 357.6275 The Company intends to hold the purchased shares in treasury. Following the above share transactions of the relevant US Dollar and Sterling Shares, the total number of shares in issue in each share class of the Company will be as follows: Ordinary Shares in issue (excluding Treasury) Ordinary Shares held in Treasury 364,765,256 Sterling Shares 8,839,604 Sterling Shares 29,762,912 Dollar Shares Nil Dollar Shares From 21 February 2024, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 559,207,363. Enquiries: Company website: www.bhmacro.com William Simmonds JPMorgan Cazenove Tel: 020 7588 2828 The Company Secretary Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited Tel: 01481 745001 BlueConic recognized based on Completeness of Vision and Ability to Execute Market-leading customer data platform (CDP) BlueConic today announced that it has been recognized as the only Challenger in the inaugural Magic Quadrant for Customer Data Platforms. We believe this industry recognition marks a major milestone for CDPs and the maturity of the space on a global scale. BlueConic differentiates from other vendors for its: Privacy-by-design philosophy: Maintaining responsible data practices is essential for garnering consumer trust, but maintaining compliance with a patchwork of regulations is only getting more difficult. That's why BlueConic has been built with privacy at the forefront. The platform has been purposely designed to collect first-party data in ways that ensures it is unified, actionable, and privacy-compliant. Collecting and using data within the framework of privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA enables companies to build trust and deliver valuable customer experiences, while mitigating their consumer data risk at the same time. Easy-to-use interface: To keep up with customers and market trends, customer-facing teams need the ability to directly access, analyze, and activate first-party data when and where they need it. With BlueConic's easy-to-use interface, these teams can effectively harness the full potential of first-party data to optimize customer experiences while reducing their reliance on external vendors, streamlining internal processes, and improving their agility in the process. Data clean rooms capabilities: With third-party data deprecation and increasing privacy constraints from customers and regulators alike, companies are looking for ways to extend the value of their first-party data. BlueConic was the first customer data platform to offer a data clean room, enabling companies to facilitate second-party data sharing in a neutral, secure, and privacy-safe environment so they can build upon their valuable, consented first-party data. "Companies across industries have unprecedented opportunities to collect customer data, but often struggle to derive meaningful insights or take effective actions based on that data, especially when it's housed in data warehouses and removed from the immediate customer experience," said Cory Munchbach, CEO of BlueConic. "Our comprehensive, purpose-built platform, coupled with an unparalleled customer experience, empowers our innovative customers to unlock a wealth of insights and act faster so they can achieve better returns on their data. We have, and always will, make both the operational efficiencies and performance success of marketers our north star." The Gartner Magic Quadrant offers visual snapshots, in-depth analyses and actionable advice that provide insight into a market's direction, maturity, and participants. Magic Quadrants compare vendors based on Gartner's standard criteria and methodology. Each report comes with a Magic Quadrant graphic that depicts a market using a two-dimensional matrix that evaluates vendors based on their completeness of vision and ability to execute. A complimentary copy of the Magic Quadrant report can be downloaded here. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner and Magic Quadrant are registered trademarks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Objectivity Disclaimer Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About BlueConic BlueConic, the leading pure-play customer data platform, liberates companies' first-party data from disparate systems and makes it accessible wherever and whenever it is required to transform customer relationships and drive business growth. Over 350 companies worldwide, including Forbes, Heineken, Mattel, Michelin, Telia Company, and VF Corp, use BlueConic to unify data into persistent, individual- profiles, and then activate it across customer touchpoints and systems in support of a wide range of growth-focused initiatives, including customer lifecycle orchestration, modeling and analytics, digital products and experiences, audience-based monetization, and more. Learn more at www.blueconic.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn @BlueConic. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221318000/en/ Contacts: Karolina Throssell Iden karolina@iden.gl www.iden.global Interview Marks President Zelenskyy's First Sit-Down from the Frontlines Since the War Started in 2022 FOX News Channel's (FNC) chief political anchor and executive editor of Special Report Bret Baier will present an exclusive interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday, February 22nd at 6 PM/ET from Ukraine. Airing on Special Report, the interview will mark the first time Zelenskyy has been interviewed at the frontlines of combat since the war started on February 24, 2022. Taking place less than a mile and a half from Russian positions, Baier will speak with the president about the two-year anniversary of the war, the debate in Congress on additional funding to Ukraine and the latest developments in the ongoing conflict. He will also travel with the president as he receives a military briefing, presents medals to some of his troops and visits wounded soldiers in the hospital. Additionally, Baier will spotlight the team of FOX News correspondents who have covered the war since the lead up to the invasion through today in which he will honor his colleagues Benjamin Hall, Pierre Zakrzewski and Oleksandra Kuvshynova who were hit by a Russian projectile while covering the start of the war. Tragically, the attack killed Zakrzewski and Kuvshynova while catastrophically injuring Hall. On Friday, February 23rd, Special Report will present a segment documenting the impact of the war through interviews with Ukrainians on the ground. He will also feature what life is like in the war-torn country, with a focus on the capital city of Kyiv. Notably, Hall, along with Jerusalem-based correspondent Trey Yingst, will join Baier on Friday to discuss the challenges in covering the war in Ukraine and importance of on the ground reporting from conflict zones. Throughout his 27-year tenure with the network, Baier has reported from 74 countries conducting numerous interviews with world leaders, sitting presidents, politicians and celebrities. Most recently he traveled to Saudi Arabia in September 2023 to interview Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which was followed by an interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has previously interviewed President Zelenskyy multiple times since the Russian invasion including most recently in December 2023. As chief political anchor, Baier has played a critical role in every major political event since he joined the network. Most recently, he co-anchored special coverage of the 2024 New Hampshire Primary and Iowa Caucuses alongside Martha MacCallum. In January 2024, he co-moderated three back-to-back town halls with MacCallum featuring 2024 GOP presidential candidates former President Donald Trump, former Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. In August 2023, he co-moderated the first Republican Presidential Primary Debate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin alongside Martha MacCallum, which was watched by 13 million viewers, making it the highest-rated non-sports telecast of the year. Special Report averaged 2.1 million viewers in 2023, ranking among the top five programs in cable news. FOX News Channel (FNC) is a 24-hour all-encompassing news service and has been the number one network in basic cable for the last eight years and the most-watched television news channel for 22 consecutive years, currently attracting nearly 50% of the cable news viewing audience according to Nielsen Media Research. Notably, Nielsen/MRI Fusion has consistently shown FNC to be the network of choice for more Democrat and Independent viewers, with the most politically diverse audience in cable news. Additionally, a 2023 New York Times/Siena College poll found FNC as the leading single source of news for voters across the country. Owned by Fox Corporation, FNC is available in more than 70 million homes and dominates the cable news landscape, routinely notching the top 10 programs in the genre. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221402944/en/ Contacts: FOX News Media Contacts: Connor Smith: connor.smith@fox.com or 212-301-3879 CHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Amazon and Discovery Education today announced a new partnership bringing Amazon Career Tours to classrooms nationwide. Amazon Career Tours offers free and interactive resources aligned to learning standards exploring the cutting-edge careers of the future by showcasing the innovative people and technology behind Amazon's innovations. Designed for students in grades K-12, Amazon Career Tours features comprehensive educator resources and ready-to-use (RTU) activities. Current RTUs include: Space Innovation Tour: Students explore NASA's Orion spacecraft used in the Artemis I test flight and learn about the many careers necessary to advance the space program. In this RTU, students meet with professionals from Amazon Future Engineer, Lockheed Martin, and Cisco as they develop the next phase in human space exploration. Robotics Fulfillment Center Tour: Educators take students on a virtual tour of the Amazon Fulfillment Center and discover how humans and robots are working together to ensure that the products purchased online reach their final destinations efficiently and without damage. The interactive tour offers a standards-aligned look at the careers available in robotics and fulfillment. AWS Data Center Tour - Uncovering Cloud Computing: Students tour an AWS data center to learn from the ground up how the cloud is built, maintained, and connected to billions of devices and people every single day. AWS Data Center Tour - Keeping Data Safe: Students learn from cybersecurity experts, engineers, and other STEM experts to discover how big data keeps people and the planet safe. Amazon Career Tours features additional resources to ensure lasting learning, including a key student learning guide that aids educators in navigating the career tours and explains key terms and ideas, and a student note catcher that captures the essential learnings of each activity. Accompanying educator guides feature materials such as background information, activities, and check-ins to make it simple for educators to incorporate the content into any lesson plan or learning environment. "This current generation of K-12 students will soon enter a fast-changing workforce in need of innovative thinkers. Now is the time to help young people explore and prepare for how next-gen technologies will create new and enhance existing roles in the workplace of tomorrow," said Victor Reinoso, Global Director of Education Philanthropy at Amazon. Amazon Career Tours are available through, Amazon Future Engineer, a global childhood-to-career STEM education program that provides all young people the opportunity to explore their potential. Learn more about Amazon Future Engineer at amazoncareertours.discoveryeducation.com or within Discovery Education Experience, the award-winning K-12 learning platform. Connecting educators to a vast collection of high-quality, standards-aligned content, ready-to-use digital lessons, intuitive quiz and activity creation tools, and professional learning resources, Discovery Education provides educators with an enhanced learning platform that facilitates engaging, daily instruction. "We're proud to partner with Amazon to provide transformative resources that support lifelong success. By taking students behind-the-scenes of technology, they can see their future role in it," said Amy Nakamoto, General Manager of Corporate Education Partnerships at Discovery Education. For more information about Discovery Education's award-winning digital resources and professional learning solutions visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. ### About Amazon Future Engineer Amazon Future Engineer is a childhood-to-career computer science education program intended to inspire and educate millions of students from historically underrepresented communities globally, including millions of students in the U.S. each year. Students explore computer science through school curriculum and project-based learning, using code to make music, program robots, and solve problems. Additionally, each year Amazon Future Engineer awards hundreds of students with four-year, up to $40,000 scholarships and paid industry internships to promote diversity and inclusion in the field. The program is currently available in Canada, France, Germany, India, the UK and U.S. For more information, visit amazonfutureengineer.com. About Discovery Education Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, innovative classroom tools, and corporate partnerships, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com. Contacts Amazon Email: amazon-pr@amazon.com Grace Maliska Discovery Education Email: gmaliska@dicoveryed.com View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Discovery Education on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Discovery Education Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/discovery-education Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Discovery Education View the original press release on accesswire.com From February 26th to March 1st, Havana will once again become the world's epicenter of premium tobacco The anniversary of Corporacion Habanos, S.A. and the Quai D'Orsay and Trinidad brands will be the main protagonists of the 24th Habano Festival HAVANA, Cuba, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Havana is decked out to welcome experts and premium tobacco enthusiasts, and especially, all Habano lovers from around the world, at the 24th Habano Festival, to be held from February 26th to March 1st, 2024. This year, the Festival not only honors the rich heritage and tradition of Cuban tobacco with special celebrations for the anniversaries of renowned brands such as Quai D'Orsay and Trinidad, but will also look back on 30 years of success for Corporacion Habanos, S.A. The Festival will kick off with the opening of the Trade Fair, a key meeting point for industry professionals, manufacturers of premium products and artisans, which this year welcomes 85 companies from 11 countries. That same night, the Club Habana will be the venue for the Welcome Evening, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Corporacion Habanos, S.A. The Quai D'Orsay brand will be the star of the Mid-week Evening at the Cubanacan Protocol Lounge in El Laguito. During the event, attendees will participate in a tribute to the brand's 50th anniversary and will personally discover this "Special" vitola, in its world premiere presentation, in honor of this commemoration. As a final touch to this edition of the Festival, the Gala Evening will take place in Hall C of the Pabexpo Fairgrounds. This will mark the beginning of the "Trinidad Year" during which its 55th anniversary will be celebrated, and some of the most important launches for the brand will be enjoyed. On this last night, as on previous occasions, awards will be presented to the winners of the final of the Habanos World Challenge contest as well as to the winners of the long-awaited Habanos Awards, a worldwide recognition to those who in 2023 supported Habanos the most in terms of communication, business, and production. The final highlight will be the traditional Humidor Auction, which this year will feature novelties for attendees, and whose proceeds will go, as usual, to support the Cuban Public Health System. A FULL PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES The traditional visits to plantations will take place in the zone of Vuelta Abajo*, in the Pinar del Rio*, recognized worldwide as the best land to grow tobacco. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to visit the Habanos factories of La Corona, Partagas, H. Upmann and Carlos Balino, where they will be able to learn first-hand about the "Totally Handmade" Habano-making process and take part in a Habano-rolling master class in which they will be able to make their own Habano. The International Seminar will feature presentations such as "Two Cities United by Habanos," focusing on the Quai D'Orsay brand, and the panel "Trinidad: Past, Present and Future" which will delve into one of Habanos' most prestigious brands. Besides, exclusive pairings will be offered, such as Taittinger champagne with Habanos Trinidad, Quai D'Orsay, and San Cristobal de Havana. Or the very popular Habanos Moments with the best rums and the finest wines. The Seminar will close with the final of the Habanos World Challenge contest, where aficionados will be able to put their Habano knowledge and skills to the test to prove they are the most knowledgeable as far as the universe of Habanos is concerned. The 24th Habano Festival, with an extensive agenda of activities, promises to be an unforgettable experience for those who wish to celebrate the rich history and culture of Habanos in Havana, the world capital of premium tobacco. *(P.A.O.) Protected Appellations of Origin. To consult the Humidor Auction catalogue click here. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344613/XXIII_Festival_del_Habano.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-24th-edition-of-the-habano-festival-kicks-off-302067852.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Altima Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARH) (FSE: AKC) (OTC Pink: ARSLF) (the "Company" or the "Altima") announces that after a thorough review of non-producing wells in the Red Earth area, in Alberta, Altima has identified (3) three additional Keg River wells to bring on production. Work on the 3 wells has begun and is expected to be completed in several days. This will bring the producing total number of wells to (7) seven. The Company will be sequentially placing these wells back into production, all of which are connected to the Altima Panny Pipeline, and flow through the Pipeline to the 3-11 Blue Sky processing facility. The Panny Pipeline continues to provide the Company sustainable, year-round production capability from the Panny Field. The Company is also adding equipment at the 3-11 Blue Sky processing facility to facilitate more accurate measurement of the production flowing through the Altima Panny Pipeline. This work is expected to be completed within two weeks. The Company has completed a workover on the 11-22-31-24 W4M well in the Twining Field, as well as completing the acquisition of Primrose Drilling Ventures Ltd. and is in the process of reviewing potential additional production from the existing Primrose assets. Mr. Devries commented "We are very encouraged in this next step towards creating multiple long-term, sustainable, economic production." Jamie Carlson, P.Eng is the Practicing Professional Engineer responsible for reviewing and approving the data contained in this press release. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD SIGNED: "Joe DeVries" Joe DeVries, Interim CEO and President Contact: (604) 336-8610 Forward Statements: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include risks relating to: availability of capital and financing required to continue the Company's exploration and development plans; general economic, market or business conditions; the actual results of current and planned exploration activities; fluctuating commodity prices; risks associated with property option agreements, leases, joint ventures and the ability to conclude joint venture agreements on favorable terms; possibility of accidents, equipment breakdowns and delays during exploration; exploration cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; regulatory changes and restrictions including in relation to environmental liability; timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. 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/198783 SOURCE: Altima Resources Ltd. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - A United Airlines (UAL) flight bound to Boston was forced to divert to Denver after several passengers caught sight of a damaged right wing of the plane. Kevin Clarke, a passenger on the flight, recorded the incident on his cell phone, which showed that the slat of the plane's right wing was chipped and missing several pieces. Slats are extendable and high lift devices used during takeoffs and landing. 'All of a sudden I heard this violent vibration like I had never heard before,' Clarke narrated. 'Can't wait for this flight to be over.' Another passenger posted a photo of the chipped wing on Reddit, 'Sitting right on the wing and the noise after reaching altitude was much louder than normal'. Clarke said that one of the pilots came down to the aisle and then returned to the cockpit to announce that the plane would be diverted to Denver due to a minor damage to its right wing. Upon landing on Denver, Clarke and the other 164 passengers of the Boeing 757-200 flight boarded another plane. Speaking about the incident, the airline stated that, 'United flight 354 diverted to Denver yesterday afternoon to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft. The flight landed safely and we arranged for another aircraft to take our customers to Boston.' The Federal Aviation Administration announced that it is investigating the incident. 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. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Baker Tilly Authored by Julia Smith and Brianna Hardy In November 2022, the Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) proposed an amendment to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), known as the Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule, to increase the transparency of climate-related information related to government contracting. The proposed regulation would require applicable federal contractors to: disclose greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for scopes 1, 2 and 3, for scopes 1, 2 and 3, conduct a climate risk assessment to identify risks in alignment with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), (TCFD), complete the Carbon Disclosure Project ( CDP ) climate change questionnaire, and ) climate change questionnaire, and commit to developing a science-based target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Who does it affect? The proposed rule divides the federal contractor supplier base registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) into two categories: Significant contractors are defined as contractors that received between $7.5 million and $50 million in federal contract obligations in the prior federal fiscal year. Major contractors are defined as contractors that received more than $50 million in federal contract obligations in the prior federal fiscal year. In FY2021 alone, there were more than 5,500 qualifying contractors. This proposed rule is expected to cover 86% of annual federal spending and about 86% of the federal supply chain's GHG and climate impacts [1]. See the requirements for each contractor category: Type of contractor Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions Scope 3 GHG emissions Description of climate risk assessment process and risks identified CDP climate change questionnaire sections that align with TCFD Science-based targets with validation by SBTi Significant contractor ($7.5M - $50M) ? Major contractor (>$50M) ? ? ? ? ? Regulatory timeline While there isn't a clear timeline for approval, the proposed rule states that after one year of publication of the final rule, all federal contractors must have completed their GHG inventory and disclosed scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions. The additional requirements for major contractors would begin two years after publication of the final rule. These additional requirements include reporting on scope 3 GHG emissions, conducting a climate risk assessment to identify risks in alignment with the TCFD, completing the CDP climate change questionnaire and committing to developing a science-based target validated by the SBTi. Comparison to the SEC climate-related disclosures In March 2021, the SEC announced plans for a greater focus on climate-related risks. The proposed disclosure ties to the TCFD and the newly formed International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), a part of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation. The TCFD focuses on governance, strategy, risk management and metrics and targets of climate change disclosures. The details of the disclosure requirements are extensive, and registrants will be required to disclose both qualitative and quantitative climate information, such as disclosures of climate-related risks, GHG emissions, events and plans. The proposed SEC rule demonstrates a great reporting burden for public companies. The reporting burden for federal contractors due to the proposed amendment to the FAR will vary depending on the value of contracts received. See the chart above for specific requirements. In comparison, the SEC climate-related disclosures will require a greater level of reporting but that shouldn't diminish the reporting requirements for FAR. Of note, under the proposed rule, major contractors would be subject to setting and validating a SBTi, a much higher threshold than the SEC rule that does not require any goalsetting. This can be a challenging goal to meet and often requires several years of reporting and analysis to determine business-appropriate pathways to net zero as required by the methodology of SBTi. Key takeaways The FAR rule is likely to increase the reporting requirements for most federal contractors. The reporting burden is far greater for major contractors (>$50MM). Science-based target setting and CDP submissions are third party reporting and verification entities that have stringent guidelines to perform well. Organizations often need several years to align processes with the methodologies used by these groups. When the final rule is issued, it will come into effect over 12 to 24 months, depending on the significant or major contractor segment. Being unprepared for this reporting poses a material profit and loss (P&L) risk to the organization. This includes challenges to meet reporting obligations held within current contracts, which can affect scoring for future competitive bids that include environmental, social and governance (ESG) components. Take action The proposed climate-related disclosure and reporting requirements will soon be a reality for contractors of the U.S. federal government. Now is the time to start thinking about how the changing regulatory landscape could affect your organization. Companies can prepare by executing the below steps: Gain an understanding of your reporting landscape and the associated requirements Develop a consistent approach to reporting by leveraging other successful reporting processes Develop an ESG governance structure and risk management processes and procedure document to address climate-related risks Perform a climate-related risk assessment and identify climate-related risks Evaluate the impact of the identified risks on the company's operations, products or services and develop risk responses and mitigation activities Align risk management processes Evaluate targets, goals and progress Navigating the proposed regulation and its potential impact to your organization can be daunting. Lean on us to help you understand and respond to the rapidly changing ESG reporting landscape. For more insights visit, Baker Tilly's government contractors page. [1] Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk, Federal Register View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Baker Tilly on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Baker Tilly Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/baker-tilly Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Baker Tilly View the original press release on accesswire.com VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Zimtu Capital Corp. (TSX.V:ZC)(FSE:ZCT1) (the "Company" or "Zimtu") announces it has signed an agreement with NevGold Corp. (NAU) to provide its ZimtuADVANTAGE program (https://www.zimtu.com/zimtu-advantage/). Zimtu will receive $16,666.67 per month from the company for the duration of the one-year contract. ZimtuADVANTAGE is a comprehensive marketing initiative designed to assist companies in navigating capital markets through strategic marketing efforts. It includes services such as in-depth research reports, content creation, investor lead generation, targeted awareness advertising, video news releases, social media management & newsletters. This program aims to enhance a company's visibility and engagement with high-value investors, leveraging various digital platforms and media outlets for effective dissemination of company updates and information. About NevGold Corp. NevGold is an exploration and development company targeting large-scale mineral systems in the proven districts of Nevada and Idaho. NevGold owns a 100% interest in the Limousine Butte and Cedar Wash gold projects in Nevada and the Nutmeg Mountain gold project in Idaho. About Zimtu Capital Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information visit: www.zimtu.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP. "Sean Charland" Sean Charland President & Director Tel: 604.681.1568 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Oil prices rebounded from early losses and settled notably higher on Wednesday as concerns about supply disruptions due to the tensions in the Middle East outweighed weak outlook for demand. Due to continued attacks on commercial vehicles in the Red Sea route, tankers have been diverting to longer routes. Houthi rebels have reportedly said ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea are their latest maritime targets. With no immediate possibility of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, it is uncertain when the vessels will start using their normal routes again. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for April ended higher by $0.87 or about 1.1% at $77.91 a barrel. Brent crude futures settled at $83.03 a barrel, gaining $0.69 or 0.84%. Traders await weekly oil reports from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The API report will be out later today, while EIA will release its inventory data Thursday morning. The reports are delayed by a day as Monday was a holiday. 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) - Elon Musk shared positive updates about Neuralink's trial on X, formerly Twitter, by claiming that the first patient could control the mouse movements with their thoughts. 'Patient seems to have made a full recovery with no ill effects that we are aware of and is able to control the mouse, move the mouse around the screen just by thinking,' Musk posted on the social media platform. The founder added that the patient could move the computer mouse up and down to drag boxes on a screen. The billionaire's neurotechnology startup aims to develop a brain implant, dubbed Telepathy, to help humans use their neural signals to control external technologies like phone or computer. The device is designed to be implanted in the skull, with ultra-thin wires connecting it with a region of the brain that controls movement intention. The device installed by a robot, will then record and send brain signals to an app, giving people the ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard with their thoughts. 'Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal,' Musk stated previously in a post. The brain implant company received FDA's clearance to start a human trial in May, following which it started recruiting candidates with quadriplegia due to cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis for the trial in September. The trial is a part of Neuralink's study called 'Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface' or 'PRIME', which aims to test the safety and functionality of the implant device, the company stated. Last month, the first patient was successfully implanted with a brain chip, following which Musk posted that the initial results showed 'promising neuron spike detection'. 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. SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - Amazon.com (AMZN) founder and former CEO Jeff Bezos sold another 14 million shares of his company worth about $2.4 billion. The tech giant's founder has now sold nearly $8.5 billion in Amazon stock this month. According to a statement filed with the SEC, Bezos sold about 14 million Amazon shares at prices ranging from $166.41 per share to $170.89 between Thursday and Tuesday. The latest sale brings the total number of shares he has sold in the firm this month to about 50 million, with a value of around $8.5 billion. The tech giant had previously said that Bezos would sell up to 50 million shares by the end of January 2025. By relocating from Seattle to Miami, Bezos is expected to save about $600 million due to Florida's tax advantages. The sales this month mark the first time Bezos has sold Amazon stock since May 2021, the year he stepped down as Amazon CEO. Apart from his business decisions, Bezos has also made philanthropic commitments towards addressing climate change and promoting human unity. In 2022, he disclosed his intention to donate a significant portion of his $124 billion fortune towards these initiatives. Bezos is currently the world's third-wealthiest person, with a net worth of $188.9 billion, according to Forbes. Jeff Bezos founded e-commerce giant Amazon in 1994 out of his Seattle garage. He stepped down as CEO to become executive chairman in 2021. He owns a bit less than 10% of the company. He and his wife MacKenzie divorced in 2019 after 25 years of marriage and he transferred a quarter of his then 16% Amazon stake to her. 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. NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Millions of Americans live with schizophrenia, a complex and long misunderstood behavioral brain disorder. Yet, today's medical advancements offer not only effective treatment, but also the potential for early intervention and prevention. World-leading schizophrenia expert Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D. joins Joe and Terry Graedon on The People's Pharmacy , a nationally-syndicated NPR co-sponsored radio show, to shed light on this long misunderstood, highly stigmatized brain disorder, which affects 3 million U.S. adults and 20 million people worldwide. The podcast episode of Show 1373: Malady of the Mind is now available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , iHeartRadio , Google Podcasts and more. Renowned psychiatrist, clinical neuroscientist, and best-selling author, Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman's groundbreaking research on the neurobiology and pharmacology of behavioral brain disorders has advanced our understanding and treatment of mental illness, and pioneered a transformative strategy for the early detection and prevention of schizophrenia. His 2023 book, Malady of the Mind: Schizophrenia and the Path to Prevention , which has been heralded as "the most important book about schizophrenia in decades, and perhaps ever," will be released in paperback on April 23, 2024. During this important episode of The People's Pharmacy, Dr. Lieberman delves into key facets of schizophrenia, from its causation, to early signs and symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis, best treatment strategies, and more: Early Signs & Symptoms: Dr. Lieberman will explore the early signs of schizophrenia, helping listeners recognize potential indicators in themselves or loved ones. The Importance of Early Intervention: Schizophrenia is a progressive disease that can cause brain volume loss over time - but if caught early, proper medication can substantially reduce or even prevent the recurrence of symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Effective Treatment Model: Medication is essential for treating schizophrenia, but is not enough on its own. Dr. Lieberman explains the key components of the most effective treatment model, such as ongoing coordinated care and social services, empowering listeners to advocate for themselves or their loved ones. A Growing Concern: Dr. Lieberman sheds light on the rising prevalence of schizophrenia, both in the U.S. and globally, fueled by the growing availability and use of recreational drugs, particularly high-potency cannabis products, emphasizing the urgency of understanding and addressing the disease. Dr. Lieberman sheds light on the rising prevalence of schizophrenia, both in the U.S. and globally, fueled by the growing availability and use of recreational drugs, particularly high-potency cannabis products, emphasizing the urgency of understanding and addressing the disease. Hope on the Horizon: Dr. Lieberman discusses the progress we've made in early detection, as well as the potential for preventive intervention amongst patients at clinical high risk of developing schizophrenia. This interview on The People's Pharmacy promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding schizophrenia, its impact, and the groundbreaking advancements offering hope for better diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, prevention. For more information about Dr. Lieberman and his work, please visit jeffreyliebermanmd.com . About Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D. Over his 40-year career, world renowned psychiatrist and best-selling author Dr. Jeffrey A. Lieberman's groundbreaking research on the neurobiology and pharmacology of behavioral brain disorders has advanced our understanding and treatment of mental illness, and pioneered a transformative strategy for the early detection and prevention of schizophrenia. Dr. Lieberman is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and recipient of the Lieber Prize for Schizophrenia Research from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, the American Psychiatric Association's Adolf Meyer Award, and the Research Award from the National Alliance of Mental Illness, among others. A frequent public spokesperson on mental illness and psychiatry, Dr. Lieberman has contributed to health care policy and federal legislation - including the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act-to improve access and quality of mental health care while reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. He is the author of Malady of the Mind: Schizophrenia and the Path to Prevention and Shrinks: The Untold Story of Psychiatry , which became the basis for the four-part PBS series, Mysteries of Mental Illness . To learn more, visit www.jeffreyliebermanmd.com . About The People's Pharmacy with Joe and Terry Graedon Produced in the studios of WUNC North Carolina Public Radio, The People's Pharmacy is an NPR co-sponsored and nationally-syndicated radio show and podcast hosted by pharmacologist Joe Graedon and medical anthropologist Terry Graedon. Each week, the Graedons bring listeners the latest medical advances, and speak with leading experts about their research on health related topics, from vitamins, herbs, and home remedies to the pros and cons of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. The award-winning radio show is heard by 200,000 listeners on 200 public radio stations nationwide . Find new episodes of The People's Pharmacy podcast each week on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , iHeartRadio , Google Podcasts , TuneIn , and more. The People's Pharmacy radio show airs Saturdays and Sundays at 7 a.m. ET. Find a local radio station here or listen to the live stream at wunc.org. Contact: Tom La Vecchia, MBA M: 908-591-1490 press@jeffreyliebermanmd.com SOURCE: Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman View the original press release on accesswire.com Bedford, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Sylla Gold Corp. (TSXV: SYG) (OTCQB: SYGCF) ("Sylla" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has exercised its option to acquire a 100% interest in the Deguefarakole exploration licence at its Niaouleni Gold Project by issuing 3,000,000 Common Shares of the Company and amending the Option Agreement dated September 15, 2021 with Niaouleni Gold Inc. (the "Optionor") and Niaouleni Gold Mali SARL. The Deguefarakole licence is one of four exploration licences that comprise the Company's 17,200 sq. km. Niaouleni Gold Project located in the Republic of Mali. The Niaouleni Gold Project is located in the Sanankoro-Kobada-Niaouleni Gold Corridor and all of the Company's exploration work to date has been completed within the Deguefarakole licence area which represents 9,200 hectares (Figure 1). Between August of 2022 and March 2023, the Company completed 76 reverse circulation drill holes on the Deguefarakole licence encountering anomalous gold grades over significant widths in 66 of 76 RC holes drilled on the property (see Sylla press releases dated August 29, 2022, September 13, 2022, and April 12, 2023). Drilling was mainly focused around the Niaouleni South Prospect. The Company's drilling activities extended the strike length at Niaouleni South to 700 m and remains open to the north, south and at depth. The Niaouleni South prospect sits approximately 6 km along strike from the Kobada gold deposit. Figure 1: Map of the Niaouleni Gold Project in Mali To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6472/198805_2bb08ec7a4cbf94a_001full.jpg Under the terms of the original Option Agreement, the final option payment required to exercise the Option included the issuance of 5,000,000 Common Shares of the Company and a cash payment of $500,000. Under the terms of the Amending Agreement, this has been reduced to the issuance of 3,000,000 Common Shares and the final cash payment requirement has been waived. The Company has issued 3,000,000 Common Shares to the Optionors, comprised of 2,000,000 Common Shares required to be issued up to the second anniversary of the Option Agreement, and the final issuance of 1,000,000 Common Shares on or before April 12, 2025. Upon issuance of the 3,000,000 Common Shares, the Option has been exercised in full and the Company has earned a 100% undivided interest in the Deguefarakole exploration licence. In connection with the exercise of the Option, the Optionor has reserved a 3% net smelter returns royalty ("NSR") in its favour, subject to the ability of the Company to purchase up to 2% of the NSR (resulting in the remaining NSR being reduced to 1%) for a purchase price of $2,000,000. Qualified Person Statement All scientific and technical information contained in this news release was prepared and approved by Gregory Isenor, P.Geo., Director of Sylla Gold Corp. who is a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. For more information, please contact: Regan Isenor President and Chief Executive Officer Tel: (902) 233-4381 Email: risenor@syllagold.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198805 SOURCE: Sylla Gold Corp. Participation in Gulfood aims to increase exports in this sector, as well as attract foreign direct investment from this part of the world. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- High value-added products such as frozen tropical fruits, frozen shrimp, coffee-based energy drinks, roasted coffee and chocolate powder are on display at the Middle East's largest gourmet food fair, Gulfood Dubai 2024, which takes place from February 19 to 23, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica(PROCOMER) aims to support the development of new businesses - and with this, exports of the high value-added food sector - as well as promote the country as a destination with a solid value proposition for investments. In this ninth participation of Costa Rica in Gulfood, the exporting companies Fructa CR S.A., Frutera La Paz, Tertulia Brugge S.A., Thompson Coffee Ltda, Ecos Shrimp Group S.A., Rooster Energy, Beneficio La Eva S.A. and Cafe Montana will also attend, with the last four participating in the fair for the first time. "The Middle East is a strategic market for the Costa Rican food industry, since it has consumers with a high purchasing power who demand quality and innovation in the products they purchase. For this reason, Gulfood is an opportunity for our export sector to position the diversity of the offer we produce and for us to be considered a strategic and differentiated commercial partner. Likewise, it represents a high potential to promote Costa Rica as an ideal investment destination, especially for the agri-food sector", Export Development Manager of PROCOMER Mario Saenz stated. Gulfood Dubai brings together more than 5,500 exhibitors from 190+ countries and 100,000 visitors, where foods from various categories are exhibited such as: processed fruits and vegetables, juices and concentrates, meats, dairy products, hot drinks, halal foods, among others. This fair represents an opportunity for the Costa Rican export sector to learn about the business culture and market dynamics, as well as to establish new contacts with buyers and investors, and observe industry trends and innovations. Paul Homberger, representative of Rooster Energy, mentioned that, together with PROCOMER, they are exploring Gulfood, one of the largest food and beverage fairs in the world, to expose their products to the world and analyze the opportunities that could arise to expand their business. Meanwhile, Luis Avila, from Ecos Shrimp Group, commented that Gulfood Dubai is strategic for his company, since it allows them to explore the possibility of opening new markets. According to data from PROCOMER, the United Arab Emirates is the third most important market for Costa Rican exports of the food industry in the Middle East, which is equivalent to $766,000 and a 16% share. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2343682/MicrosoftTeams_image__94.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/costa-rica-positions-gourmet-food-offering-and-country-value-proposition-in-the-middle-east-302068036.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Safe Supply Streaming Co. Ltd. (CSE: SPLY ) ( FSE: QM4) (OTCQB: SSPLF) ("Safe Supply" or "the Company") applauds the British Columbia Naturopathic Doctors (BCND) Association for its proactive stance on advancing prescription powers for naturopathic doctors in British Columbia. This initiative marks a crucial step towards integrating safer supply and medication-assisted treatments for substance-use disorders, highlighting the potential for naturopathic doctors to play a vital role in the response to this public health emergency. Safe Supply is at the forefront of this movement, engaging in active discussions with several clinics across British Columbia and Ontario. The Company is strategically positioning itself as the preferred supplier in anticipation of the expansion of prescribing powers within the naturopathic community. Furthermore, Safe Supply is exploring opportunities for clinic roll-ups and acquisitions, aiming to enhance its ecosystem and bolster its commitment to addressing the toxic drug crisis effectively. The B.C. Naturopathic Doctors Association has reported significant interest in the topic among its members, with over 250 naturopathic doctors enrolling in a provincial education and training program to prescribe medications commonly used for opioid use disorder, such as methadone. This initiative reflects the community's dedication to being part of a comprehensive solution to the crisis. To date, fifty members across thirty communities have commenced their training, underscoring the urgency and commitment of the naturopathic profession to contribute meaningfully to this public health challenge. In response to this initiative, Vanessa Lindsay, BCND President, has reached out to the B.C. Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, advocating for the necessary changes to allow naturopathic doctors to prescribe medications for substance-use disorders. This proposal has been forwarded to Health Minister Adrian Dix, indicating a positive step towards legislative and regulatory support for this critical issue. Recent studies, including a population-level evaluation published in the British Medical Journal, have demonstrated the efficacy of prescribing pharmaceutical alternatives to illicit drugs in reducing overdose deaths and related harms. Despite the clear benefits, access to these prescriptions remains limited, with a vast majority of individuals who use illicit drugs in B.C. unable to access prescribed alternatives. Safe Supply is committed to being an integral part of the solution, working closely with healthcare providers, clinics, and regulatory bodies to expand access to safer supply options. As the discussion progresses, Safe Supply remains dedicated to supporting efforts that lead to tangible changes in policy and practice, ultimately contributing to the health and well-being of communities across British Columbia and Ontario. Safety Strips Stake Acquisition Safe Supply also provides more details about its recently announced acquisition of a 7% interest in Safety Strips Tech Corp. ("Safety Strips"), the pioneering harm reduction company (see Press Release dated February 8, 2024). Safe Supply Streaming will acquire a seven percent (7%) equity interest in Safety Strips Tech Corp. for $50,000 cash and three million (3,000,000) common shares in Safe Supply for a total value of $300,000 (C$0.10 per share) to compensate for the minority interest acquisition of Safety Strips Tech Corp. The CEO of Safe Supply, Bill Panagiotakopoulos, independently owns approximately 4,000,000 shares or 7.5% of Safety Strips Tech Corp. Safe Supply's access to Safety Strip's founder round underscores the tangible value Safe Supply provides to companies emerging to tackle the opioid crisis. It showcases Safe Supply's proprietary model of incubating, accelerating & partnering with companies to earn significant equity stakes in companies with significant prospects which is reflective in Safe Supply being awarded the opportunity to invest in Safety Strips at $5 million valuation, a company that is led by a serial entrepreneur and former public co-CEO, with a distribution agreement with a USA and active discussions with retailers. As the fentanyl crisis continues to widen, Safety Strips is well positioned to lead in the development of harm reduction technologies. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in addressing the escalating overdose crisis, positioning Safe Supply Streaming at the forefront of the emerging medical testing market. About Safe Supply Safe Supply Streaming is a public company committed to improving public health outcomes through strategic investments in harm reduction and medical technology. With a focus on innovative solutions and partnerships, Safe Supply Streaming aims to address critical health crises and offer meaningful, life-saving interventions. Learn more at www.safesupply.com and follow Safe Supply on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. For Further Information: Bill Panagiotakopoulos CEO and Director (305) 335-8214 Bill@safesupply.com Media contacts: McKenna Miller KCSA Strategic Communications safesupply@kcsa.com Forward-Looking Information and Statements Certain statements in this news release related to Safe Supply and Origin are forward-looking statements and are prospective in nature, including but not limited to the express or implied statements and assumptions regarding the intention of Origin and Safe Supply to complete the Transaction. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "could", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "will" or "continue", or the negative thereof or similar variations. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and Origin's and Safe Supply's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information, including but not limited to adverse market conditions and risks inherent in Origin's and Safe Supply's respective businesses. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this press release. Except as required by applicable law, Origin and Safe Supply do not intend to update these forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, there can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed, or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular and/or listing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Origin should be considered highly speculative. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy hereof. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198734 SOURCE: Safe Supply Streaming Co Ltd. WINDOW ROCK, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Dine Development Corporation (DDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors: Mark Freeland, Sam Rosenfeld, and Brad Preber. The new members bring a wealth of experience in Navajo government, risk management, and finance industries to oversee DDC's strategy and governance. "As we embark on our twentieth year as an organization, it is a pivotal time to welcome refreshed perspectives to our growth initiatives," stated DDC CEO, Austin Tsosie. "Our new members strengthen our Navajo, financial, and compliance expertise to usher in the next tier of excellence, innovation, and expansion in support of our customers, the Navajo Nation, and communities we serve." Mark Freeland is a former Council Delegate of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, the legislative branch of the Navajo Nation Government. In this role, he served on the Council's Resources and Development Committee (RDC) regulating authority of the Navajo Nation's environmental and cultural resources, economic development, and other areas vital to Tribal sustainability. Mr. Freeland formerly served as Executive Staff Assistant for the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President and is currently pursuing an MBA from the University of New Mexico. Sam Rosenfeld is the Managing Director of SR Advisory, a private advisory firm offering bespoke consulting to a variety of clients. He also serves as the Managing Director of Cenerus providing financial and infrastructure management services delivering efficiency, transparency, and flexibility of financial operations. Prior to his current roles, he led organizations that delivered political and operational risk management and asset management in the international defense sector. He holds an Australian Financial Services License; MBA from Wharton Business School; MSc in Risk, Crisis, and Disaster Management; and BA in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the University of Leicester. Mr. Rosenfeld is published by the Wharton Financial Institution Center, volunteers through international organizations as a mentor to emerging market entrepreneurs, and advises technology start-ups and funds. Bradley (Brad) J. Preber is the former CEO and Chairman of the Board of Grant Thornton (GTUS), one of the largest audit, tax, and advisory services firms in the U.S. and largest member firm of Grant Thornton International, one of six global networks. Prior to joining GTUS, Brad worked for Touche Ross & Co. and Arthur Andersen serving as an Audit and Advisory Partner. During his tenure at GTUS, Brad served on the Board of Directors for various GTUS sectors and the Center for Audit Quality leading the Anti-Fraud Work Group. Brad is currently a Trustee for the University of New Mexico Foundation and serves on the Board of The Plaza Group. He holds a BBA from the University of New Mexico where he was inducted into the Robert O. Anderson School of Management Hall of Fame. Brad held certifications including CPA, CGMA, CFF, CFE, and CCA and was qualified as a financial expert under SEC rules. Brad is an esteemed financial communications author and data analytics co-author. Contact Information: Katie von Allmen Senior Marketing Manager katie.vonallmen@ddc-dine.com SOURCE: Dine Development Corporation (DDC) View the original press release on newswire.com. Armada Supply Chain Solutions Opens Dallas Supply Chain Hub Center PITTSBURGH, PA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Armada, a leading logistics solutions provider to the food industry, is pleased to announce the official opening of their new warehouse facility located at 101 Enterprise Drive in Flower Mound, Texas. This new Hub will enable Armada's business expansion to better serve clients, the marketplace, and boost efficiency and capacity for the company. A massive 465,000-square-foot, three-temperature-zone building, this state-of-the-art Hub has all the attributes necessary to support Armada's growing business. Armada's CEO, John Burke, shares, "The opening of our new Dallas Hub Center marks years of strategy, planning, and hard work. We continue to invest in infrastructure, and while the Dallas Hub is a physical space, it is also a symbol of our commitment to innovation and growth in our industry. The strength of Armada and our team will provide our existing and future clients with the necessary framework to flourish." The facility comprises 357,069 square feet of ambient space, serviced by 72 dock doors. The temperature-controlled capacity includes 33,678 square feet of refrigerated space and a 54,630-square-foot freezer supported by a 16,723-square-foot cool dock and 16 dock doors. The building is food-grade and Merieux NutriSciences approved. Armada deployed Kargo optical reader verification for shipping and receiving and a narrow-aisle facility layout to maximize efficiencies. The Dallas Hub complements Armada's existing, similar-sized facilities in Greencastle, PA, Romeoville, IL, and East Point, GA, and represents an important milestone as Armada looks to provide greater flexibility and reliability for their clients. The operation brings 70 new jobs to the region. For capacity availability inquiries, please contact Solutions@armada.net. For press inquiries, please contact Debi Gann, Armada's Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, at DGann@armada.net. ARMADA: www.armada.net Armada creates innovative, data-driven, fully integrated supply chain solutions that improve business performance for our clients, enabling them to best serve their customers. Armada believes there's a better way-a better way rooted in transparency, advocacy, and ingenuity. Contact Information Debi Gann VP Marketing and Business Development dgann@armada.net (316) 453-7298 Related Files exterior 1 (2).jpeg SOURCE: Armada Supply Chain Solutions View the original press release on newswire.com. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE" or "the Exchange") today welcomed the listing of Black Gold Exploration Corp. The company's common shares began trading on the CSE earlier today under the symbol BGX. Black Gold Exploration, based in Vancouver, is an oil and gas exploration company focused on advancing its El Carmen property in Argentina's Chubut province. The company's exploration program has an estimated budget of approximately $600,000. "Oil and gas companies have been an important cohort of the CSE since the Exchange's inception, and we are thrilled to be the exchange of choice for the Black Gold Exploration team," said James Black, the CSE's Vice President, Listings Development. "We are pleased to welcome BGX, which provides investors with another interesting early-stage opportunity in the sector." About the Canadian Securities Exchange: The Canadian Securities Exchange is a rapidly growing exchange invested in working with entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors to access public capital markets in Canada. The Exchange's efficient operating model, advanced technology and competitive fee structure help its listed issuers of all sectors and sizes minimize their cost of capital and enhance global liquidity. Our client-centric approach and corresponding products and services ensure businesses have the support they need to confidently realize their vision. The CSE offers global investors access to an innovative collection of growing and mature companies. STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CSE ============================= Website: https://thecse.com/ Blog: https://blog.thecse.com/ CSE TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/csetv CSE's "The Exchange for Entrepreneurs" Podcast: https://blog.thecse.com/category/cse-podcast/ Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/canadian-securities-exchange Twitter: https://twitter.com/CSE_News Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianexchange/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanadianSecuritiesExchange/ Contact: Richard Carleton, CEO 416-367-7360 richard.carleton@thecse.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198816 SOURCE: Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) All financial figures are in Canadian dollars. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Suncor Energy's (TSX: SU) (NYSE: SU) Board of Directors has approved a quarterly dividend of $0.545 per share on its common shares, payable March 25, 2024 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 4, 2024. Suncor Energy is Canada's leading integrated energy company. Suncor's operations include oil sands development, production and upgrading; offshore oil production; petroleum refining in Canada and the U.S.; and the company's Petro-CanadaTM retail and wholesale distribution networks (including Canada's Electric HighwayTM, a coast-to-coast network of fast-charging EV stations). Suncor is developing petroleum resources while advancing the transition to a low-emissions future through investments in power and renewable fuels. Suncor also conducts energy trading activities focused primarily on the marketing and trading of crude oil, natural gas, byproducts, refined products and power. Suncor's common shares (symbol: SU) are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges. For more information about Suncor, visit our website at suncor.com. Media inquiries: (833) 296-4570 media@suncor.com Investor inquiries: (800) 558-9071 invest@suncor.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198789 SOURCE: Suncor Energy Inc. Ongoing LMS-based Software & Data Division contract Total contract value since May 2022 is $15.0 million TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Think Research Corporation (TSXV:THNK) ("Think" or the "Company"), a company focused on transforming healthcare through digital health software solutions, is pleased to announce that it has expanded its original contract with a long-term global pharmaceutical client with an additional agreement worth approximately $5.0 million, bringing the total value up to approximately $15.0 million since May 2022. The contract expansion includes new exclusive learning modules and an annual SaaS license added to the Think Learning Management System ("LMS") already delivered throughout 2022 and 2023. The overall agreement encompasses Think's content solutions along with the LMS to provide a broad offering of content, essential data services and software. Sachin Aggarwal, CEO, Think Research said " We are pleased that global clients are continuing to gain significant long-term value from Think's Learning Management System. Our platform approach to delivering essential data, services and solutions for clinicians continues to make us a valuable long-term partner for clients across all solutions in our Software and Data Division." About Think Research Corporation Think Research Corporation is an industry leader in delivering knowledge-based digital health software and data solutions. The Company's evidence-based healthcare solutions support clinical decision-making, improve access to services, enable practitioners to gain better capabilities and knowledge, and help to standardize care to facilitate better healthcare outcomes. Think Research has gathered a significant amount of data by building its repository of knowledge through its digital solutions platform and group of companies. The Company's focused mission is to become an essential platform that helps healthcare clinicians, institutions and networks to provide the best care and information. Think licenses its solutions to over 14,200 facilities for over 320,000 primary care, acute care, and long-term care doctors, nurses and pharmacists who rely on the content and data provided by Think to support their practices. Over 3 million patients and residents annually receive better care due to the essential data that Think produces, manages and delivers. In addition, the Company collects and manages pharmaceutical and clinical trial data via the BioPharma Services entity that Think acquired on September 10, 2021. BioPharma Services is a leading provider of bioequivalence and Phase 1 clinical research services to pharmaceutical companies globally. Think's other services include a network of digital-first primary care clinics and medical clinics that provide elective surgery. Visit: www.thinkresearch.com. Neither 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. For more information: https://www.thinkresearch.com/ca/investors/ For further information: Mark Sakamoto, Executive Vice President, Think Research Corporation, Direct: 416.388.7119, mark.sakamoto@thinkresearch.com SOURCE: Think Research View the original press release on accesswire.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Host Hotels & Resorts Wednesday announced fourth-quarter funds from operations of $311 million or $0.44 a share, down from $316 million or $0.44 a share last year. Adjusted FFO stood at $311 million or $0.44 a share, compared to $316 million or $0.44 a share prior year. Profit declined to $132 million or $0.19 a share from $147 million or $0.20 a share in the previous year. Analysts, on average, surveyed by Thomson Reuters had estimated a profit of $0.20 per share for the same period. Revenue increased to $1.3 billion from last year's $1.2 billion. Looking ahead, the real estate company anticipates FFO and AFFO of $1.92 to $2.04 per share, and a profit of $0.99 to $1.11 per share for the fiscal year 2024. 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. Dubai, UAE, February 21st, 2024, Chainwire CoinMarketCap, the worlds most trusted source of Crypto data, insights, and community, announces the first-ever CMC Crypto Awards, hosted online from February 21st to March 6th. This annual event will honor the exceptional people, products, and projects shaping Crypto and Web3, reflecting CoinMarketCaps ongoing leadership in the Crypto space and dedication to the community. The CMC Crypto Awards recognizes outstanding achievements across eight categories, including Crypto of the Year, Most Innovative DeFi Project and Crypto Leader Of The Year. From Feb 22nd, Award Nominees will be announced daily on CMCs Website and social media channels, with community voting open until March 3rd. Winners will be determined via a combination of CoinMarketCaps data, an expert committee and community votes and announced March 6th. The innovation we have seen in Crypto this past year is truly inspiring, said Rush Luton, CEO CoinMarketCap. Our intention is for the CMC Crypto Awards to become the most recognized annual celebration of Crypto and Web3. Think of it as the Oscars Of Crypto, an entertaining way to bring the whole industry together and celebrate the people and projects that are driving the industry forward. We congratulate all the nominees and look forward to sharing their achievements with the whole global crypto community Watch the official CMC Crypto Awards trailer now on CoinMarketCap.com (https://coinmarketcap.com/events/cmc-crypto-awards-2024) and save the date, March 6th for the CMC Crypto Awards ceremony streaming live on YouTube and at CoinMarketCap.com. The event is hosted in partnership with BingX, Animoca Brands, Binance, Trust Wallet, Coinbase, Chainwire, Zeebu and ICP Hubs Network, uniting the Crypto community in recognizing this years achievements. MEDIA CONTACT Jonathan Isaac, CMO, CoinMarketCap Email: [email protected] ABOUT COINMARKETCAP CoinMarketCap is Home Of Crypto, the worlds most trusted Cryptocurrency data authority. Its mission is to accelerate the Crypto revolution by organizing the worlds Crypto intelligence and making it easily accessible to all. Contact CMC Marketing Jonathan Isaac CoinMarketCap [email protected] Ibex Investors, LLC, a Denver, CO-based multi-stage and multi-strategy investment firm, closed its fourth Israel focused fund, Ibex Israel VC II LP, with $106m in capital commitments. The roster of limited partners includes founders and current and former executives across a wide range of sectors. The vehicle follows Ibexs $100m Israel early-stage fund raised in 2020. Read more on VCWire.tech, our new website dedicated to the tech venture capital industry. FinSMEs 21/02/2024 Medical Microinstruments, a Pisa, Italy-based robotics company dedicated to increasing treatment options and improving clinical outcomes for patients with complex conditions, raised $110M in Series C funding. The round, which brought the total amount to $200M, was led by Fidelity Management & Research Company. The company intends to use the funds to support commercialization of the Symani Surgical System in high-growth markets and continue investment in studies that generate clinical evidence and enable indication expansion. Led by Mark Toland, CEO, MMI provides robotic technology that opens new opportunities for surgeons to restore quality of life for patients with complex conditions. Its proprietary Symani Surgical System combines small wristed microinstruments with tremor-reducing and motion-scaling technologies to address microvascular repair, lymphatic repair, and peripheral nerve repair. The Symani System is CE Marked for commercial use in Europe. In the United States, the system is not approved or cleared for commercial use. Commenting on the news, Mark Toland said: Our Symani Surgical System is uniquely positioned to expand patient access to care by accelerating the number of surgeons able to perform complex, delicate procedures. With the support of our investors, we will continue to advance our technology through a growing body of clinical evidence and expanded hospital partnerships. FinSMEs 21/02/2024 Prime Minister Modi, during his recent visit to Jammu, was seen addressing a large crowd where he took the opportunity to mention the film Yami Gautams Article 370 has created a lot of waves, ever since the films trailer was launched. The plot revolves around the chain of events that took place in the backdrop of Article 370, a special status granted to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. With just a few days left for the release, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shared his thoughts on the film Article 370. Advertisement PM Modi says Yami Gautams Article 370 will help to gain correct information Prime Minister Modi, during his recent visit to Jammu, was seen addressing a large crowd where he took the opportunity to mention the film. Maine suna hai ki issi hafte Article 370 pe film aa rahi hai. Mujhe nahi pata film kaisi hai, par maine suna hai. Acha hai, logon ko sahi jankari milne mei kaam aayegi (I have heard that a film based on Article 370 will be released this week. It is a good thing as it will help people to get the correct information), he said. #WATCH | Jammu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "I have heard that a film on Article 370 is going to be released this week... It is a good thing as it will help people in getting correct information." pic.twitter.com/FBe8yOFnPJ ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2024 Advertisement Actress Yami Gautam has expressed her gratitude on social media. Yami reshared a video of his public address on Instagram and wrote, It is an absolute honour to watch PM Narendra Modi Ji talk about #Article370Movie. My team and I really hope that we all exceed your expectations in bringing this incredible story to the screen! Advertisement Advertisement About Article 370 Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Article 370 is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Yamis husband, Aditya Dhar, and Lokesh Dhar. The film will be released on 23 February 2024. Advertisement The political-thriller features Yami Gautam in the role of an intelligence officer. The species, which has been labelled Eunectes akayima, was discovered in Ecuadorian Amazons Baihuaeri Waorani Territory in the Bameno region during filming of National Geographics Disney+ series Pole to Pole with Will Smith. The northern green anaconda diverged from the southern green anaconda around 10 million years ago and is 5.5 per cent different genetically Researchers collaborated with the indigenous Waorani people to ensnare and examine several specimens of the northern green anaconda. Image courtesy: Instagram Remember the 1997 movie Anaconda? It deals with the worlds biggest and most deadliest snake. Well, flash forward to 2024 and a massive anaconda has been discovered in the Amazon the worlds biggest. But what do we know about the anaconda? Lets take a closer look: According to The Independent, the snake belongs to a previously unknown species of giant anaconda. Advertisement The species, which has been labelled Eunectes akayima, was found in Ecuadorian Amazons Baihuaeri Waorani Territory in the Bameno region. Researchers collaborated with the indigenous Waorani people to ensnare and examine several specimens of the northern green anaconda. Scientists say the snake can grow up to 26-feet-long and can weigh as much as 500 kilos. The species was discovered during filming of National Geographics Disney+ series Pole to Pole with Will Smith. Professor Freek Vonk, who hosted the show, posted a video on Instagram. Advertisement Together with 14 other scientists from nine countries, we discovered that the largest snake species in the world, the green anaconda, Vonk was quoted as saying by Science Times. As we all know it from movies and stories about giant snakes are actually two different species. Advertisement Researchers found the giant snakes lurking in the shallows and lying in wait for prey. The size of these magnificent creatures was incredible one female anaconda we encountered measured an astounding 6.3 metres long, study co-author Bryan Fry from the University of Queensland was quoted as saying. There are anecdotal reports from the Waorani people of other anacondas in the area measuring more than 7.5 metres long and weighing around 500 kilograms, Dr Fry said. Advertisement Fry wrote in The Conversation that anacondas are the worlds heftiest snakes and among the most lengthy. Predominantly found in rivers and wetlands in South America, they are renowned for their lightning speed and ability to asphyxiate huge prey then swallow them whole, Fry wrote. According to Fry, four anaconda species have been found thus far. Advertisement Green anacondas are true behemoths of the reptile world. The largest females can grow to more than seven metres long and weigh more than 250 kilograms, Fry wrote. The anacondas mostly live in South Americas Amazon and Orinoco basins. They are known for their stealth, patience and surprising agility. The buoyancy of the water supports the animals substantial bulk and enables it to move easily and leap out to ambush prey as large as capybaras (giant rodents), caimans (reptiles from the alligator family) and deer, Fry further wrote. Advertisement He noted that green anacondas are not venomous. Instead they take down prey using their large, flexible jaws then crush it with their strong bodies, before swallowing it, The northern green anaconda and the southern green anaconda diverged around 10 million years ago, as per The Independent. Genetically, the differences are massive. Theyre five-and-a-half percent different, genetically. To put that into context, were about two percent different from chimps, NDTV quoted Fry as saying. Advertisement My colleagues and I were shocked to discover significant genetic differences between the two anaconda species. Given the reptile is such a large vertebrate, its remarkable this difference has slipped under the radar until now, Fry further wrote. Fry also called for conservation efforts in the Amazon to be stepped up. The Amazon rainforest, which holds roughly 20 percent of the worlds freshwater reserves and has incredible biodiversity including 16,000 acknowledged tree species, is being destroyed due to various man-made and natural reasons. Advertisement A protest against oil exploration in the Amazon. Reuters Deforestation is the foremost reason for the forests deterioration. According to the Andean Amazon Pact observation, the Amazon biome has lost more than 85 million hectares (211 million acres), or around 13 per cent of its original extent. Most of that devastation has occurred in the last half-century, with Brazil accounting for two-thirds of the rainforest. Advertisement Other environmental risks include big hydroelectric dams, particularly in Brazil; illegal logging; mining; and oil drilling, which can pollute water and disrupt Indigenous livelihoods. Due to lack of infrastructural investment, much of the sewage from dwellings in the jungle is discharged directly into waterways. The findings also show the urgent need to better understand the diversity of Earths animal and plant species before its too late, Fry wrote. Advertisement With inputs from agencies One protester died on Wednesday and several farmers were injured after police fired tear gas and rubber bullets. Dramatic visuals earlier in the day showed around 10,000 cultivators with 1,200 tractor-trolleys facing off against the police and security personnel in riot gear Farmers on Wednesday donned masks, gloves and safety suits to protect themselves. Reuters The farmers protest resumed today after the Samyukta Kisan Morcha rejected the Centres proposal. Much like last week, the protest devolved into chaos with the police dropping tear gas on farmers. Several farmers were injured and one 24-year-old farmer even died on Wednesday. Thousands of farmers who began the march to Delhi on 13 February were halted at the Haryana border where they clashed with security personnel. Advertisement The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjabs border with Haryana since then. So how did the protest descend into violence? Lets take a closer look: According to NDTV, farmer groups formed into a human chain at the border. Dramatic visuals showed around 10,000 farmers with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, and heavy earthmoving equipment facing off against police and security personnel in riot gear. This included a makeshift tank which farmers built out of a JCB machine on a tractor on Tuesday. The police have demanded that the farmers, who they say are arming youth with sticks, stones, face masks (to protect against the tear gas) and iron shields to attack security personnel", back down. On Wednesday morning, some young farmers began heading towards the barricades placed at the Shambhu border. Advertisement The Haryana Police responded around 11 am by firing tear gas shells causing the young farmers to run for cover. Fleeing the tear gas and clouds of smoke, the farmers, some wearing medical masks, ran into fields surrounding their gathering-point on a highway about 200 kilometres north of the capital New Delhi. Advertisement When they tried to regroup, police fired more tear gas shells at them. At another protest site about 100 kilometres away, video clips on local media showed police using water cannons and farmers aiming a hose pipe of water at them. The farmers, accompanied by cranes and excavators, began marching from a spot on a key highway where authorities had erected barricades on the border of Punjab state with Haryana. Advertisement Farmers had been camping at the Shambhu border crossing between Punjab and Haryana since 13 February. Reuters It is not right that such massive barricades have been placed to stop us, said one of the farmers leaders, Jagjit Singh Dallewal. We want to march to Delhi peacefully. If not, they should accede to our demands." NDTV quoted Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee general secretary Sarwan Singh Pandher as saying, Around 10,000 people are here at the Shambhu border. The farmers are maintaining a peaceful situation here and tear gas is being used against us through drones. (Protest) will continue until the government agrees to our demands." According to Indian Express, tractor trollies were also lined up at the Bathinda-Dabwali border. BBC reported that farmers donned masks, gloves and safety suits to protect themselves. They also sent kites into the sky to disrupt police drones which have been used to drop tear gas. According to Hindustan Times, several farmers sustained injuries and a 24-year-old protester died of his injuries on Wednesday. Farmer leaders said this was the first death in clashes since the Delhi Chalo march began on 13 February. The victim has been identified as Subhkaran Singh (21), a resident of Baloke village in Punjabs Bathinda district, farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa said. Patiala-based Rajindra Hospitals medical superintendent HS Rekhi told reporters that three people, one of them dead, were brought to the hospital from the Khanauri border point. He (Singh) had an injury to his head, Rekhi said. He added that the other two are in stable condition. Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira attacked the Punjab government. My heartfelt condolences to the family of deceased farmer Shubkaran son of Charanjit Singh of V.Ballo District Bathinda who was shot by Haryana police today at Khannauri border during #FarmerProtest2024. This is matter of grave concern and at the same time shame for @BhagwantMann pic.twitter.com/WgXiLxMd4i Sukhpal Singh Khaira (@SukhpalKhaira) February 21, 2024 Advertisement But the Haryana Police claimed no farmers died today. Advertisement Farmers in Khanauri claimed that Haryana Police also fired rubber bullets to disperse protesters. Some of the other injured were also sent to Rajindra Hosptial, according to Hindustan Times. Indian Express quoted BKU general secretary Kaka Singh Kotra as saying Jasbir Singh Guggu from Baloke village was grievously injured. Guggu has been rushed to the government hospital at Patra near Patiala. NDTV reported that the farmers have halted their march to Delhi for two days, but said that the sit-in would continue. The farmers have also suspended their protest march to Delhi for two days, though the sit-in protest will continue. The newspaper quoted the police as saying that three cops had died and 12 were injured in farmer attacks. Advertisement The Wire quoted SKM leader Darshan Pal as saying that over 100 farmers were injured in the protests last week. Farmer leaders had initially claimed that over 60 people were injured as they tried to break past barricades while police used tear gas, water cannons. Today, farmers wanted to go to the national capital and carrying out such an attack on them around 60 youths got injured, claimed Dallewal of the SKM. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had spoken to a farmer injured during police action at the Shambhu border near Ambala. Gandhi asked the injured farmer where all he sustained injuries, and the farmer replied that he had sustained wounds on his hands and near his eye. Advertisement Gandhi accused the Modi government of having a dictatorial attitude towards the countrys food providers. Gandhis telephonic conversation on Tuesday night with the injured farmer, Gurmeet Singh, was facilitated by Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Raja Warring who visited a government hospital in Rajpura town of Patiala district after the farmers clashed with Haryana Police. Advertisement In a post in Hindi on his WhatsApp channel, Gandhi said, Talked on phone to former soldier Gurmeet Singh ji, who was seriously injured in police atrocities during the farmers movement. Twenty-four police personnel, including a deputy superintendent of police, were injured as protesters hurled stones at them, officials said. AAP govt hits back at Centre The AAP government in Punjab in a letter to the Centre on Wednesday it is completely wrong to claim the state government was allowing gathering at the two border points with Haryana. Theresponse came a day after the Centre conveyed its strong objection to the gathering of protesters, estimating that nearly 14,000 people have assembled along the Punjab-Haryana border. Advertisement In its communication to the Punjab government, the Union Home Ministry also said the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state over the past few days has been a matter of concern and asked it to take stringent action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many miscreants in the guise of farmers were indulging in stone-pelting, and mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjabs border with Haryana. Advertisement Punjab has allowed a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, the letter claimed. The AAP government in Punjab in a letter to the Centre on Wednesday it is completely wrong to claim the state government was allowing gathering at the two border points with Haryana. Reuters , Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma said it was completely wrong to claim that the Punjab government was allowing people to gather at Shambhu and Dhabhi-Gurjan borders. Farmers were going to Delhi to hold a protest but because of restrictions on their movement, farmers were at the borders of Punjab and Haryana, he said. Verma said that till now, more than 160 people have been injured due to tear gas shells, rubber bullets, use of physical force and drones by the Haryana Police. Yet the Punjab government has responsibly maintained the law and order situation, he said. He also said the Punjab government played an important role in negotiations between farmer leaders and a panel of union ministers with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann himself attending three out of four such meetings. In one of the meetings which he could not attend, the CM deputed a cabinet minister and senior officials, he said. The chief secretary called for showing more sympathy towards farmers, saying the law and order issue during the protest should be tackled in a more sensitive way as Punjab is a border state. Over 2,000 police personnel have been deputed to maintain peace, according to the communication. The situation is being constantly monitored, we will take steps if needed, the chief secretary said. Ready to discuss issues Agriculture minister Arjun Munda on Wednesday invited the protesting farmers for a fifth round of discussion on all issues including the MSP (minimum support price). The minister also appealed to the protesting farmers to maintain peace and engage in a dialogue to find a solution. We are ready to discuss all the issues, be it MSP or crop diversification. We can find a solution only through dialogue. I have invited them for the discussion and appealed to them to maintain peace and find a solution that is good for everyone, Munda told reporters here. The farmers also have a slew of other demands including the implementation of the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. Commuters face massive jams Daily commuters between Delhi and Gurugram have been facing massive traffic jams on Wednesday after protesting farmers announced to continue their Delhi Chalo agitation. Delhi Police, along with their counterpart in Gurugram, have made elaborate arrangements to stop the farmers from entering the national capital by putting up road blockades at different borders. The move led to traffic chaos at places like Rajokri border, Sarhol border, Delhi-Gurugram Highway (NH-48) and Delhi-Bahadurgarh Highway during the official hours from 7 am to almost 11 am. Several videos were shared online of hundreds of vehicles stuck in traffic jam at Delhi-Gurugram and Delhi-Bahadurgarh roads due to the restriction of movement. Multi-layered barricades have been put up at several locations. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police beefed up security in the national capital on Wednesday and directed its personnel to ensure strict vigil at Tikri, Singhu and Ghazipur borders after the protesting farmers announced to continue their Delhi Chalo agitation. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Jimmy Chiram said there was sufficient deployment of the force besides paramilitary personnel at the Delhi-Haryana borders. Our motive is not to disturb traffic. Our main motive is to ensure safety, security and law and order. Deployed teams are checking all the vehicles to ensure that farmers do not enter the national capital, said the DCP. With inputs from agencies Farmers are resuming their Delhi Chalo agitation after talks with the Centre didnt yield positive results. According to estimates, around 14,000 farmers are part of the march and they come in 1,200 tractor-trolleys. The authorities are on high alert and have beefed up security arrangements at the Shambhu border in Haryana Farmers near a backhoe loader modified to shield from police rubber bullets at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, in Patiala district, as they gear up to resume their Delhi Chalo march. PTI The farmers are back and they are marching to Delhi. They have resumed their Delhi Chalo protest march from the Punjab-Haryana border today after their talks with the Centre over their demands, namely the Minimum Support Price (MSP), didnt yield positive results. The farmers march is likely to affect life in Delhi and its surrounding areas with security also being beefed up. In fact, the two border points of Delhi and Haryana Tikri and Singhu have been sealed with heavy police deployment and multi-layered concrete barricades and iron nails. Advertisement But how did we get here? And how are the farmers planning on crossing the barricaded Haryana borders? Farmers reject Centres offer, resume march Farmers under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha a faction which is un-affiliated to any political party had earlier launched a peaceful march of tractors-trolleys to Delhi with their list of demands , of which MSP is the core issue. First, over 100s of farmers began their march on 13 February from the outskirts of Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab until the Shambhu border. However, as the farmers began to move forward they were met with the state authorities and violence broke out. According to the farmers, the security personnel tear-gassed them and even used rubber pellets and batons against the convoy of farmers. Reports stated that at least 60 of the protesting farmers were injured in the violence that broke out. Advertisement It was then decided that the farmers would put their march on strike and initiated talks with the Centre three ministers, Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai. On Sunday during the fourth round of talks, the government made an offer to procure five crops moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton on MSP for five years based on a contract system. However, a day later, the farmers rejected the proposal, saying it was not in the farmers interest. Advertisement The proposal that was presented before us was different than what Union Minister Piyush Goyal disclosed before the media after the fourth round of meeting on Sunday night. In the meeting, it was proposed that for the five crops, procurement would be done on MSP. But when the minister conveyed after the meeting that the procurement would be on a contract system, the real intention was exposed. So, after deliberating on the ministers statement, we have decided to reject the offer, said Sarwan Singh Pandher, coordinator of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, addressing a press conference at the Shambhu Barrier in Patiala. Advertisement He added that in light of these developments the farmers had decided to resume their Delhi Chalo march on 21 February from the Shambhu and Khanauri points between Punjab and Haryana where they have been camping. A farmer rests on a highway during their ongoing protest at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. PTI Farmers long march to Delhi Early Wednesday morning, the farmers tractorcade began their journey to Delhi with news agency PTI reporting that at the Shambhu border point, they had brought excavators in order to make their way through the multi-layered barricades set up by the Haryana security personnel. Some of the farmers are carrying masks to protect themselves from tear-gas shells. Advertisement VIDEO | Farmers wearing gas mask at #ShambhuBorder as they prepare to resume their 'Delhi Chalo' march today.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/ku7ZJjiWmF Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 Advertisement Farmer leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal ahead of the march, in a press conference pleaded with the government to remove the barricades and said that they were ready to die in the interest of the nation. We are ready to die in the interest of our nation if any confrontation happens, those who had put up these barricades will be responsible those who brought in paramilitary, who fired tear gas and rubber bullets at us, they will be responsible for what is going to happen today, said Sarwan Singh Pandher. Advertisement Jagjit Singh Dallewal added, It is our endeavour that we move ahead peacefully. It is not our intention to create any confrontation. Are we foreigners? Doesnt the Constitution of India give us the right to talk freely? When the dharna was going on at Jantar Mantar, even Rajnath Singh had gone there. Why doesnt he come here to our dharna now? Advertisement According to PTI reports, around 14,000 farmers are ready at the Shambhu border and will march towards Delhi at 11 am. Moreover, around 1,200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars and 10 mini-buses will be used for the march. Tractors and trolleys of protesting farmers parked on a highway at the Punjab-Haryana border, in Patiala. PTI The farmers have also geared up to counter any of the barriers that the authorities have placed in their way to Delhi. As per an NDTV report, they have created a makeshift tank a JCB machine mounted on a tractor, with the operator cabin covered with iron sheets to protect the person from tear gas shells and rubber pellets. Advertisement Additionally, they are also carrying soil-filled sacks to make a temporary bridge in order to cross the Ghaggar river in Ambala. This is after the Haryana Police dug up the river bed to stop the movement of tractors, trolleys and other motor vehicles. Advertisement Security measures beefed up The Haryana, Delhi and Punjab Police have beefed up security arrangements as the farmers gear up for their march. In fact, the Haryana Police urged its Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border, which they say the protesters will use to break the barricades. Advertisement Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapoor in a letter to his Punjab counterpart wrote: It is reliably learnt that heavy earthmoving equipment, including digger, JCB etc, that have been further modified/armour-plated have been acquired by protesting farmers and have been deployed at the border locations where the protesters are camping right now. These machines are meant to be used by the protesters to damage the barricades, thereby posing serious danger to the police and paramilitary forces deployed on duty, and are likely to compromise the security scenario in Haryana. Iron barricades being installed in view of the farmers march at the Kundli-Singhu border, in Sonipat. PTI The Haryana DGP also warned that there were inputs that protestors may keep women, children and senior citizens in the front so that the police can be deterred from taking legal action and that they would take necessary action if farmers resort to forcefully removing the barricades, leading to avoidable risk of injury/hardship to women, children and senior citizens. The Haryana government has also further extended the ban on mobile internet and bulk text-message services in seven districts until Wednesday in view of the agitation. A farmer stands near a roadblock with inscription reading No farmer, no food during the ongoing farmers protest at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. PTI The Delhi Police was also ready for the protesters with Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Jimmy Chiram saying there was sufficient deployment of the force, besides paramilitary personnel, at the Delhi-Haryana border. Another officer said Delhi Police is prepared to stop the farmers at the city borders. Security personnel have been directed to not allow even a single protester or vehicle to enter the capital, he said, adding that mock security drills were conducted on Tuesday. Delhi Police has already stocked up 30,000 tear gas shells. Theres also traffic diversions in place in New Delhi with authorities asking commuters to avoid several roads. Taking to X, the police wrote, On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 9.30 am to 11.30 am. With inputs from agencies After being launched in 1995, the dead European Remote Sensing 2 (ERS-2) has been slowly returning to Earth. The ESA says the satellite will break into pieces above the Earths surface, and the vast majority will burn up in the atmosphere. If any pieces make it to Earth, they will probably fall into the ocean The ERS-2 gathered data on Earth's atmosphere and climate change during its 16-year lifespan. Image Courtesy: The European Space Agency Somewhere on Earth, space debris from a defunct European Space Agency satellite is falling on Wednesday, 21 February. After being launched in 1995 and deactivated in 2011, European Remote Sensing 2 (ERS-2) has been slowly returning to Earth. Heres all we know about it. When is it falling back to Earth? The ESAs predictions as of Tuesday afternoon are that the defunct satellite will re-enter the Earths atmosphere at 10.19 am ET (i.e., 8.49 pm IST) on Wednesday, plus or minus around 19 hours. Advertisement This uncertainty is due primarily to the influence of unpredictable solar activity, which affects the density of the Earths atmosphere and can therefore change how much drag pulls on the satellite on its way down. Its still too early to tell where it will come down, but well have a better idea as the time of re-entry gets closer, ESA wrote. Interestingly, the space agency predicts that very little of the satellite will actually touch down on land or in the ocean. It says the satellite will break into pieces at about 50 miles above the Earths surface, and the vast majority will burn up in the atmosphere. If any pieces make it to Earth, they will probably fall into the ocean. Advertisement Image Courtesy: The European Space Agency How big is the dead satellite? When compared to other space junk, the ERS-2 satellite is huge. It weighs roughly 2,268 kilogrammes (5,000 pounds) and is about the length of a city bus, as per USA Today. The heaviest fragment that could fall to Earth or the ocean, according to Henri Laur of the ESA Earth observation mission, would weigh about 52 kilogrammes (115 pounds), or about the same as a Tesla Model X, according to Phys.org. Advertisement According to the website, ESA space debris system engineer Benjamin Bastida Virgili said during a press briefing last week, The odds of a piece of satellite falling on someones head is estimated at one in a billion, (about 1.5 million times lower than the risk of being killed in an accident at home). Advertisement What we know about the satellite When it was first launched on 21 April 1995, the Earth-observing ERS-2 satellite was the most advanced spacecraft Europe had ever produced and deployed, reported CNN. It employed an imaging synthetic aperture radar, a radar altimeter, and other powerful sensors to measure ocean-surface temperature and winds at sea, according to the ESA, along with its older sister satellite, ERS-1. Advertisement To assess atmospheric ozone, the ERS-2 also carried an additional sensor. In 29 years since its launch, the space agency said the two satellites gathered information on diminishing polar ice, changing land surfaces, sea-level rise, warming oceans and atmospheric chemistry. ERS-2 was deactivated by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2011, and its orbit was lowered from 488 miles to 356 miles above Earth in order to significantly lower the chance of collision with other spacecraft or space debris. It is now out of fuel and out of batteries. Advertisement According to NPR, the intention was to gradually bring it down and keep it from contributing to the larger issue of orbiting space debris. How much space junk is orbiting Earth? Space junk, or orbital debris, can include minor rocket or satellite components as well as retired spacecraft like the ERS-2. Even human faeces from astronauts on space trips may be present. The last 30 years have seen a sharp increase in the number of objects in Earths orbit, as per USA Today. Advertisement The vast bulk of untracked space junk, according to the ESA, is less than 0.4 inches wide. The majority of the debris is caused by collisions and explosions of satellites. Furthermore, smaller fragments of debris may be produced when items collide with one another. Even little things can be deadly because the average impact speed is typically 22,000 metres per hour. Advertisement However, space trash isnt limited to satellite and missile debris. As per the report, some unusual items include a 1969 Andy Warhol drawing left behind on the Moon by the Apollo 12 mission, a spatula lost by astronaut Piers Sellers in 2005, the red Tesla and its Starman driver launched in space in February 2018, and a bag of tools that floated away on a maintenance spacewalk on 1 November. Advertisement How much junk is there? Since the space age began in the 1950s, about 50,000 tonnes of material have been launched into space by humans. The space agency, citing information from the US Space Surveillance Network, estimated that some 10,000 tonnes were still in orbit. NASA says that there are around 100 million objects one millimetre or smaller in orbit, and about 500,000 marble-sized objects. There are another 25,000 things larger than 10 centimetres. Advertisement As of December 2023, the majority of the 16,990 satellites that have been sent into space since 1957 roughly 9,000 of them were still whizzing around the Earth, according to the ESA. It says an object with an equivalent mass to the ERS-2 re-enters Earths atmosphere once every one to two weeks on average. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis is in New Delhi for a two-day state visit. He will hold bilateral talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. The economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations date back thousands of years. Heres how the relations have fared recently PM Narendra Modi meets Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis during the latter's ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential Palace in New Delhi. PTI Greek prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is on two-day state visit to India from today (21 February). This is the first trip by a Greek head of state to India after 15 years. He met PM Narendra Modi, who will host a lunch banquet for his Greek counterpart. Mitsotakis is the chief guest and keynote speaker at the annual Raisina Dialogue held in New Delhi from 21 to 24 February. His visit is aimed at enhancing the strategic partnership between the two countries. The Greek PM is accompanied by senior officials and a business delegation. A visit to Mumbai is also on the cards. Advertisement As the Greek premier begins his India trip, lets take a look at the bilateral ties between the two nations. Brief history of Indo-Greek ties Indias ties to Greece are centuries old. From Alexander the Greats invasion in 326 BCE to trade between the Mauryan Kings and Greece, the two sides have had a rich history of economic and cultural exchanges that date back thousands of years. Three years after Indias Independence, India and Greece forged diplomatic relations. Greece opened its Embassy in Delhi in 1950, while India did in Athens in 1978. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the relations between the two countries are based on shared cultural values, commitment to foster economic growth, collaboration in the fields of security and defence, shipping, maritime and marked by convergence on regional and global issues. Advertisement India and Greece signed their first MoU on Defence Cooperation in 1998. While Indias stand on Northern Cyprus is appreciated by Greece, Athens backs Indias bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. Greece has also supported India on crucial global pacts regarding the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), Australia Group, Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and the Wassenaar Arrangement, noted ThePrint. Advertisement Over the years, the relations between the two countries remained limited to tourism, trade and migration of labour, as per The Hindu. However, this has changed recently under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government. Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis welcomes Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, Greece, 25 August 2023. REUTERS File Photo Enhancing India-Greek ties While Indian prime ministers have visited Greece since 1983, a lack of high-level contact with Athens meant India did not form close strategic ties similar to those with other European countries such as France, Spain, Italy and Cyprus. Advertisement It was only in August 2023 during PM Modis visit to Athens that the bilateral ties between the two countries were upgraded to a strategic partnership. Modi, who was the first Indian PM in 40 years to visit the European country, was also conferred with Greeces Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, the countrys second-highest civilian honour. Advertisement The two nations also decided to create a dialogue mechanism between their National Security Advisers. We have decided that we will strengthen our strategic partnership by expanding our cooperation in the fields of defence and security, infrastructure, agriculture, education, new and emerging technology, and skill development, PM Modi said at the time. Advertisement India and Greece also agreed to double bilateral trade by 2030 and sign a migration and mobility pact soon. As per ThePrint, the elevation of ties between the two countries was possible after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Greece in 2021 and laid the groundwork. Why the partnership matters Greece is important for New Delhi due to its strategic location as a gateway to Europe for India and the Gulf countries. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) announced last year aims to connect South and West Asia to Europe through Haifa in Israel and Piraeus in Greece, reported ThePrint. The ambitious project could be revived once tensions subside in West Asia. Advertisement Greece has emerged as a key player in Indias Mediterranean outreach, with New Delhi seeking a presence at Greek ports and a broader defence partnership, according to Economic Times (ET). Last year, the Indian Air Force marked their maiden participation in the multinational exercise INIOCHOS 23 hosted by the Hellenic Air Force in Greece. Advertisement Advertisement The Indian Navy warship INS Chennai visited Souda Bay, Crete in July last year where it carried out a passage exercise with the Hellenic naval ship Nikiforos Fokas in the Aegean Sea. In September 2023, four Greek F-16s participated in Indias largest air exercise Tarang Shakti for the first time. Advertisement Greece is ramping up its military arsenal. This could open up opportunities for India which aims to achieve an annual export target of Rs 35,000 crore by next year. According to ThePrint, Greece can be a useful addition to Indias engagements in the Indo-Pacific, the goal being to uphold freedom of navigation with like-minded partners. Advertisement The two countries are seeking to strengthen cooperation in defence and shipping, as per a Mint report. India is discussing defence sales with Greece, along with cooperation in shipping and naval modernisation. People aware of the matter told Mint that New Delhi is interested in Indian companies investing in Greek ports and in inviting Greece to explore commercial opportunities in shipping under the Make-in-India programme. With inputs from agencies China seems to be reviving a legacy of the Mao Zedong era it is bringing back militias. Several state-owned firms have been setting up private armies known as the Peoples Armed Forces, which fall under the management of the Chinese military. But what is their mission? A group of Chinese army new recruits wait for their trains at the railway station in Hefei, central China's Anhui province 10 before departing for basic training. Since last year, Chinese companies are setting up their own private armies. File photo/AFP China appears to be going back to its old ways. Its companies are reportedly setting up volunteer armies, something which was more common in the 1970s. Several of the countrys state-owned enterprises and a private firm have established in-house fighting forces over the last year. Such private military units were a legacy of the Mao Zedong era , according to a report in Financial Times (FT). But why are they back? We take a look. Advertisement What do we know about Chinas private armies? The private units are known as the Peoples Armed Forces (PAF). They are made up of civilians who continue their regular jobs and act as a reserve force to Chinas military, the largest in the world. The Peoples Armed Forces are expected to be available for missions like support during wartime, operations during national disasters and helping maintain social order, according to a report by CNN. Another report by FT says that these private armies carry out civil defence activities and contribute to military recruitment, promotion and training. However, members of these forces do not operate outside of China as of now. They are a lot like Americas National Guard, a state-based force which serves as a private combat reserve of the US army. Also read: Explained: How China is ramping up its military capabilities Since last year, there has been a rise in Chinas private militias. In October 2023, the Chinese defence ministry confirmed the push to include these units in state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Advertisement An FT analysis of company announcements and state media reports of 2023 shows that dozens of Chinese state-owned firms have set up new departments of the Peoples Armed Forces. At least 16 big companies, including a privately-owned dairy giant, have volunteer armies today, reports CNN. Recruits of Chinas Peoples Liberation Army undergo training in Hefei, east Chinas Anhui province. The private armies come under the management of the Chinese army. File photo/Reuters While most private forces are set up by SOEs, in December, Yili Group, became the first private company to set up its own unit. Among the worlds top dairy producers, the firm is not controlled by the state but the local government in Hohhot, the city where it is based, has an 8.5 per cent stake in it. Advertisement Yilis private army unit is under the management of the PLA garrison in Inner Mongolia and the Communist Party committee of the regional government, reports CNN. The group was set up to build a national defence force based at Yili, which can serve in peacetime, cope with emergencies, and respond in wartime, said Huang Zhiqiang, executive vice-chairman of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Advertisement Why are Chinese companies setting up these forces? As Chinas economy continues to slow, there is a growing social discontentment among its public. There is also a concern about a conflict abroad as tensions with Taiwan and the United States rise. Analysts say that the establishment of these corporate forces highlights Beijings worries over the issues. It is also seen as part of Chinese president Xi Jinpings efforts to tighten the Communist Partys grip over society after the pandemic. Advertisement The draconian COVID-19-related restrictions were met with protests and public anger , which is uncommon in the Communist nation. The demonstrations have only grown since as China faces a property downturn and struggles with deflation, youth unemployment and corporate default. A protester holds up a placard at a Tiananmen Square Memorial, created in Trafalgar Square in London. Demonstrations in China are on the rise over the past few years. File photo/AFP According to data from the China Labour Bulletin, a Hong Kong-based non-profit that monitors workers protests, labour strikes have risen to 1,794 in 2023, more than double since the 830 recorded the year before. Advertisement Neil Thomas, a fellow for Chinese politics at Asia Society Policy Institutes Center for China Analysis, told CNN, The return of corporate militias reflects Xis rising focus on the need to better integrate economic development with national security as the country faces a more difficult future of slower growth and rising geopolitical competition. Advertisement According to him, the private armies could help the Communist Party curb protests and employee strikes more effectively. Grant Newsham, a retired US marine colonel who also worked as a US diplomat in both East and South Asia, said that the private armies are part of Xi Jinpings efforts to consolidate and tighten control since he took power. That control is ultimately dependent on potential or actual use of violence and intimidation Having these armed force units in SOEs expands and tightens control, and the psychological threat of violence, he told Voice of America (VoA). Advertisement Experts believe that these units will focus on internal security and are not being mobilised to take on foreign adversaries. The activation of these PAFD [Peoples Armed Forces Department> units is a symptom of the leaderships concern about the domestic social stability situation, Timothy Heath, senior international defence researcher at the Rand Corporation think-tank was quoted as by FT. Because its happening in so many places all at once, this is almost certainly being directed from the top down. Advertisement He said that these private armies could play a role in domestic security, acting as a link between companies, society and security forces. It would also promote patriotism and help to monitor compliance with directives of the Chinese Communist Party, he said. A paramilitary recruit takes part in a training session at an army base in Tianjin municipality. File photo/Reuters What is China saying? Wu Qian, a Chinese defence ministry spokesperson, said in October 2023, that the effort to raise PAFDs was part of Chinas whole-nation approach to national defence and that the militias are available for everything from a large-scale mobilisation to the response to a natural disaster. Advertisement In a statement carried by Chinas state news agency Xinhua, he said that establishing corporate brigades in state-owned enterprises was required to fulfil national defence obligations and strengthen national defence construction. Peoples Armed Force units within state-owned enterprises is a component of the national defence system, it is the partys armed work department within the enterprises, as well as the governments recruitment arm within the enterprises, he said. Advertisement Chinas Xi Jinping on a visit to a military command centre. File photo/AP What did private armies do in the past? Peoples Armed Forces were linked with the recruitment efforts of the Peoples Liberation Army at the county and village level during the time of Mao. According to Cheng Xiaonong, a Chinese-American social scientist, and Wan Runnan, leading Chinese human rights, the armed forces groups helped the Communist Party to establish its footing in both rural and urban areas after the party gained power in 1949, reports VoA. They cracked down on anti-communist rebellions and made sure everyone toed the party line. Cheng told VOA that sometimes these groups used sticks, guns and other tools against villagers and factory workers, which could still be done. With inputs from agencies The agreement between Bilawal Bhutto-Zardaris Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of three-time PM Nawaz Sharif ends days of uncertainty and negotiations after the 8 February elections produced a hung National Assembly. Heres how the drama unfolded Shehbaz Sharif and Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said the decision was taken 'to benefit Pakistan.' Reuters Pakistan has a new coalition government yet again. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) joined hands after more than a week of frantic negotiations. The announcement came a day after a round of talks between the top leaders of the two parties ended inconclusively on Monday. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif will return as prime minister, while PPP co-chair Asif Zardari will yet again become president. Advertisement The news was announced by PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari at a press conference on Tuesday night. pic.twitter.com/HM9jasPnVl PMLN (@pmln_org) February 20, 2024 The PPP and PML-N have achieved the required number, and [now> we are in a position to form the government, Bilawal said. Advertisement Shehbaz said former prime minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party-backed candidates and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) failed to achieve a simple majority in Parliament to form government in the Centre. To form a government, a party must win 133 out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly or the lower house of Parliament. Advertisement While Independent candidates, a majority backed by 71-year-old Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf part, won 93 National Assembly seats, the PML-N won 75 seats while the PPP came third with 54 seats in the Pakistan general polls. The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P), which won 17 seats, will support the government. But how did the parties come together to form Pakistans new govenrment? Advertisement Lets take a closer look: The announcement capped off days of high drama. According to The Express Tribune, Bilawal at a press briefing earlier on Tuesday said the PPP would vote for vote for the PML-N candidate on its own terms. However, Bilawal then sprung a surprise at a late night press conference at Islamabads Zardari House when he announced the PPP would indeed support Shehbaz as prime minister. Advertisement We pray the upcoming [coalition> government manages to overcome external and internal problems faced by the country, Bilawal was quoted as saying by Dawn. We are thankful to the PML-N for throwing its weight behind PPP candidate Asif Ali Zardari, he added. The decision was taking after the PML-N and PPP had their seventh meeting. Advertisement The parties said the decision was taken in the nations best interest. Advertisement According to the newspaper, committees of both parties thrashed out the details before the deal was finalised at the home of PML-N leader Ishaq Dar on Tuesday in the presence of the high command of both parties, according to Express Tribune. Bilawal-Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party said the PTI failed to achieve a simple majority in Pakistan parliament. AP Shehbaz Sharif, who was prime minister from 2022 to 2023, said that the journey ahead for the new government would not be easy but fraught with many difficulties and obstacles. He asserted that the coalition alliance will tackle them together, the Dawn newspaper reported. PPP co-chairperson Zardari, who was president from 2008 to 2013,has said the struggle of the political alliance bidding to make the next government is for the sake of the country and future generations. Advertisement It aimed to benefit you, Pakistan, and the coming generations, he was quoted as saying by Express Tribune. The announcement of the alliance came a day after the latest round of talks between the top leaders of the two parties ended inconclusively on Monday as both sides failed to reach a consensus on a power-sharing formula to form a coalition government. Advertisement Shehbaz Sharif, who was prime minister from 2022 to 2023, said that the journey ahead for the new government would not be easy but fraught with many difficulties and obstacles. He asserted that the coalition alliance will tackle them together, the Dawn newspaper reported. Pakistans former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the decision was taken to benefit Pakistan and the coming generations. AP Dawn quoted people in the know as saying that the PPP would not be part of the federal cabinet. Advertisement The post of Speaker of the National Assembly would go to the PML-N, while the Senate chairman would be from the PPP. The PPP would also get governorships in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Mandate thieves, says PTI Meanwhile, in a post on X, 71-year-old Imrans PTI hit out at the newly cemented PPP, PML-N alliance as PDM 2.0 PDM 2.0 = #MandateThieves. Advertisement The 8 February general elections have been controversial, with several serious allegations of widespread rigging to alter the results. Imran Khans sister Aleema Khan said the PTI chief has termed the February 8 elections mother of all rigging. Aleema met Imran Khan at Adiala Jail on Tuesday. She told reporters that the peoples mandate was stolen following the elections. She also said that Imran Khan has strongly condemned the suspension of internet services, which he claimed was used to hide the real results. Earlier Tuesday, Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party asked for the resignation of the head of Pakistans Election Commission, Sikandar Sultan Raja, for allegedly failing to conduct the elections in a free and fair manner. Imran Khans sister Aleema Khan said the PTI chief has termed the February 8 elections mother of all rigging. Imrans party claims the victories of dozens of its candidates were converted into defeat, a charge the elections oversight body denies. Imran is serving multiple prison terms after being sentenced to a total of 31 years in prison on charges of corruption, revealing official secrets and marriage law violations in late January and early February during trials at a prison in Rawalpindi. The surprisingly strong showing for Khans party in the recent elections were a shock for former Nawaz , who had earlier been marked out as the powerful security establishments preferred candidate. With inputs from agencies Researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that paracetamol can damage the liver by interfering with the structural junctions that are essential for the proper functioning of neighbouring cells in the liver. Notably, this is the first study to connect liver damage from paracetamol toxicity to illnesses like cancer, cirrhosis, and hepatitis A pharmacist checks weight of Paracetamol, a common pain reliever also sold as acetaminophen, tablets inside a lab of a pharmaceutical company on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, India. Reuters Paracetamol is considered to be one of the workhorse painkillers. These tablets provide hassle-free, quick relief with more than 50 years of proven efficacy. Anything in excess, though, might be detrimental to your health. Experts have warned anyone who takes paracetamol frequently about the serious health risks involved. Lets take a closer look. The link between paracetamol and liver damage Advertisement Researchers at the University of Edinburgh observed the effects of taking paracetamol on mice and concluded that it is the leading cause of liver damage. Their findings published in the journal Scientific Reports showed that, under certain circumstances, paracetamol can damage the liver by interfering with the structural junctions that are essential for the proper functioning of neighbouring cells in the liver. Scientists at the University of Edinburgh studied the impact of paracetamol on liver cells in human and mouse tissue, and tests showed that in certain settings, paracetamol can damage the liver by harming vital structural connections between adjacent cells in the organ, the study said. Advertisement When these cell wall connections known as tight junctions are disrupted, the liver tissue structure is damaged, cells are unable to function properly and they may die, it added. Four grammes of paracetamol a day is a normal dose for patients with chronic pain. Notably, this is the first study to connect liver damage from paracetamol toxicity to illnesses like cancer, cirrhosis, and hepatitis. Researchers from the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service and the Universities of Edinburgh and Oslo participated in the study. Advertisement The teams current goal is to create a reliable method for employing human liver cells in place of animal research. Subsequently, they will examine the effects of varying paracetamol dosages and times of liver toxicity and pinpoint possible targets for new drugs. Is paracetamol safe? According to The Guardian, paracetamol gained popularity during the 1960s when people thought aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen might trigger gastric bleeding, ulcers, and other serious side effects. For many years, there was conflicting data on the likelihood that prolonged use of paracetamol could result in internal bleeding. Advertisement The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in 2013 that taking paracetamol may at times result in toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalised exanthematous pstulosis, and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, which are skin conditions that can be fatal and cause the top layer of skin to peel off. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK recommended general practitioners not to prescribe paracetamol for osteoarthritis in draft guidelines released that same year. The guidelines suggested that paracetamol had limited benefit and linked higher doses to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and renal. But after medical professionals rejected the recommendation, Nice made a U-turn and resumed supporting paracetamol, as per a report by The Guardian published in 2015. Advertisement Though paracetamol is the treatment of choice recommended by the UK-based National Health Service, the evidence says that the drug is of little help for those with chronic pain, cancer, post-operative, period and paediatric pain, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. According to a study published in BMJ in 2015, paracetamol was ineffective for acute lower back pain and that compared with placebo, it had only a small, clinically irrelevant effect on pain and disability for osteoarthritis suffers. It also highlighted evidence that those taking it regularly were almost four times more likely to have abnormal liver function test results. Advertisement Researchers at the University of Bristol published a study in 2019 associating paracetamol intake during pregnancy with potential adverse behavioural and cognitive outcomes during childhood, such as hyperactivity and attention problems. Our findings add to a series of results concerning evidence of the possible adverse effects of taking paracetamol during pregnancy such as issues with asthma or behavior in the offspring. It reinforces the advice that women should be cautious when taking medication during pregnancy and to seek medical advice where necessary, lead author Jean Golding said, according to News Medical Life Sciences. Advertisement A 2022 study by the University of Edinburgh also links between paracetamol and high blood pressure The study published in BMJ last year also warned against the use of medicines like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and codeine, especially for lower back pain. The researchers found side effects like nausea, dyspepsia, vomiting, and diarrhoea in the gastrointestinal system; and discomforts like drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches to the nervous system. According to research published in the journal Pediatric Research this year, increased usage of acetaminophen or paracetamol by pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, was linked to smaller vocabularies and shorter utterances in two-year-olds. Advertisement Each use of the drug was linked to a two-word reduction in vocabulary in two-year-olds, raising concerns about its impact on foetal brain development, the University of Illinois study said. Notably, the medicine is known to cause liver failure in overdoses, but the latest findings highlight the need for caution even in standard doses for pain relief. Advertisement Recommended dosage Paracetamol comes in tablets, capsules, syrup, powder, and a suppository. They come in different strengths, such as a tablet of 500 mg or one gramme, while syrup (oral solution) comes in 120 mg, 250 mg or 500 mg in five ml. The maximum 24-hour dose of paracetamol is four grammes, but as little as five grammes can cause liver complications, and it can be easy to overdose accidentally by taking more than one product containing it at the same time. Advertisement According to the NHS, the usual dose for adults is either 500 mg or one gramme. And if one weighs less than 50 kilogrammes, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before consuming it. Adults can take two, 500-mg tablets, 4 times in 24 hours. You must wait at least 4 hours between doses. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana are known as the Kapilvastu Relics. Dating back to around the 4th or 5th Century BC, the relics were discovered by a team of ASI officials in Bihars Piprahwa a site that is believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu in the 1970s. They were earlier sent to Mongolia and Sri Lanka where they were put on display The relics of Lord Buddha and his followers will be sent to Thailand in a special Air Force India Plane and will enjoy the status of a State guest.' Image courtesy: @MinOfCultureGoI India is sending some holy relics to Thailand. The relics of Lord Buddha and his followers will be put on display together for the very the first time from tomorrow. The relics will be sent to Thailand in a special Air Force India Plane will enjoy the status of a State guest.' Advertisement They were earlier sent to Mongolia and Sri Lanka. But what do we know about the relics? And how do they push forward Prime Minister Narendra Modis foreign policy? Lets take a closer look: What do we know about the relics? The relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana are known as the Kapilvastu Relics. The relics date back to around the 4th or 5th Century BC. They were found in Bihars Piprahwa a site that is believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu. They relics were discovered by a team of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials in the 1970s. The ASI conducted excavations at Piprahwa during 1971-77 under the supervision of then archeology director KM Srivastava. Advertisement The excavation team had discovered two inscribed steatite stone caskets containing 12 sacred relics from a bigger casket and 10 sacred relics from a smaller casket. As per Indian Express, the inscription on the caskets lid talks about the relics of Buddha and his community the Sakya reads: Sukiti bhatinam sa-bhaginikanam sa-puta-dalanam iyam salila nidhare Bhaddhasa bhagavate sakiyanam. Advertisement This roughly translates to: This shrine for relics of the Buddha, the August One, is that of the Sakyas. The brethren of the distinguished One, in association with their sisters and with their children and their wives. under the supervision of then archeology director KM Srivastava. Image courtesy: @MinOfCultureGoI Piprahwa today is located in Uttar Pradeshs Siddharthnagar district. Of these 22 pieces of relics (bone fragments), 20 are kept at the National Museum and two at the Indian Museum in Kolkata. Advertisement Lord Buddha achieved Mahaparinirvana at the age of 80 in Kushinagar. The Mallas of Kushinagara cremated his body with ceremonies befitting a Universal King (cakravartin). His holy relics, from the funeral pyre, were collected, divided and given by Brahmin priest Dhona of Kushinagar to kings and priests. The eight shares were distributed among Ajatashatru of Magadha, the Licchavis of Vaishali, the Sakyas of Kapilavastu, Mallas of Kushinagar, Bullies of Allakappa, the Mallas of Pava, the Koliyas of Ramagrama and a Brahmana of Vethadipa, Union culture ministry said. Advertisement The sacred relics were commemorated in eight different stupas. Two more stupas came into existence, one over the urn in which the relics had been collected and one over the embers. Thus, stupas erected over the bodily relics of Buddha (Saririka-stupas) are the earliest surviving Buddhist shrines, the note shared by the ministry said. Advertisement It is stated that Ashoka (circa 272-232 BC), being an ardent follower of Buddhism, opened up seven of these eight stupas, and collected a major portion of the relics for enshrinement within innumerable stupas built by him to popularise Buddhism and spread dharma. In 1898, the discovery of an inscribed casket by William Claxton Peppe, a British colonial engineer and an estate manager at a Buddhist stupa site at Piprahwa, was an epoch-making incident. The inscription on the lid referred to the relics of Buddha and his community. Advertisement The bone relics present in the stone coffer were presented to King Rama V of Thailand. The relics were further divided into three shares and gifted to Thailand, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. In Thailand, the holy relic has been enshrined in a chedi on the top of Suwanbanphot, Bangkok. Every year, during the Loi Krathong Festival, there is a seven-day and seven-night celebration, which has become a tradition to worship the Buddhas relics, it added. Advertisement Beautiful pagoda constructed Four of the relics will be part of a 26-day exhibition from tomorrow. The relics Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana were brought to Delhi from Sanchi to prepare for the journey. The relics will be welcomed in a grand ceremony and then securely housed in Bangkoks National Museum. According to Deccan Herald, the relics will undergo a period of quarantine here. Advertisement Ministry officials on Tuesday said a beautiful pagoda has been specially constructed in Bangkok by the Thailand government to enshrine the holy relics which will be on display there. The Thai government has built this pagoda specifically to hold the relics. PIB The exhibition itinerary includes visits to multiple venues across Thailand, allowing devotees and enthusiasts alike to pay homage to these revered artefacts, officials said. Advertisement The relics will be displayed at Sanam Luang Pavilion in Bangkok from 22 February to 3 March, at Ho Kum Luang, Royal Rujapruek, Chiang Mai from 4 to 8 March, at Wat Maha Wanaram, Ubon Ratchathani from 9 to 13 Marchand at Wat MahaThat, Aoluek, Krabi from 14 to 18 March. Advertisement The relics will return to India on 19 March. These relics are being sent at the request of the Thai government. The Thai government has also requested to send relics of the two disciples of Lord Buddha Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana. The relics of these two disciples are preserved at Sanchi We had requested the Madhya Pradesh government, and it is a matter of happiness that they have accepted it. Alongside the relics of Lord Buddha, the relics of Sariputta and Mogallana will also be part of the delegation, Mohan said. A 22-member Indian delegation led by Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar will accompany the relics to Thailand. According to Indian Express, the event is being organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Thailand, the International Buddhist Confederation and the Madhya Pradesh government. Exhibitions on Buddhist sites in India and talks on relics by academicians will also take place. How does it push forward PM Modis foreign policy? According to The Times of India, the move is part of the Modi governments Look East policy. The piece noted that the Modi government earlier sent the relics to Mongolia another country with a massive Buddhist population. It said India was reiterating its emphasis on soft power. The holy relics will be encased in this casket. and showcased across Thailand. PIB It added that New Delhi would continue to develop and promote the Buddhist circuit by investing heavily in developing infrastructure projects. Rijiju at the time said the country was Indias Third Neighbour despite not sharing a common physical boundary and that this was a special gift for the people of Mongolia. Mongolia and India look upon each other as spiritual and cultural neighbours and due to this commonality, Rijiju added. The relics in 2022 were taken to Mongolia for an 11-day exhibition as part of celebrations of Mongolian Buddh Purnima. A 25-member delegation led by Kiren Rijiju had accompanied the relics which travelled in a special airplane C-17 Globe Master. They were displayed at the Batsagaan Temple on the premises of Gandan Monastery. Prior to 2022, the relics were sent to Sri Lanka in 2012 where they were put on display at several locations across the nation. However, the relics were later reclassified under the AA category of Antiquities and Art Treasures which states that they should not ordinarily be taken out of India given their delicate nature. The relics were sent to Mongolia after a special request from the government. PIB The Modi government sent the relics to Mongolia after a special request, according to The Times of India. Union Culture Secretary Govind Mohan said given the ancient ties of India with Thailand, this occasion would also be a diplomatic achievement for New Delhi. it will go a long way in strengthening the ties between India and Thailand. While in Thailand one can see similarities to Indian culture, the exposition will be welcomed by Buddhists in Thailand, Mohan was quoted as saying by Deccan Herald. Parts of the collection were earlier sent to Singapore in 2007, South Korea and Thailand in 1995, Singapore in 1994, Mongolia in 1993 and Sri Lanka in 1976_._ With inputs from agencies Its been five days since Alexei Navalny died in an Arctic penal colony, where he was serving a 19-year prison sentence. However, the cause of his death still remains unknown. Now, a human rights activist claims that a single blow to the heart, a technique used by KGB operatives, is the likely reason for the dissidents demise A woman holds a portrait of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny as people attend a protest and vigil held in front of the Russian embassy following the death of Navalny, in Kappara, Malta. Reuters Its been five days since the news broke of Russias most popular dissident Alexei Navalnys death. However, the cause of his death still remains a mystery. At the time of his passing away, the Federal Penitentiary Service of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District had said, On 16 February, in penal colony number 3, convict Navalny felt unwell after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness. All necessary resuscitation measures were carried out, which did not give positive results. Doctors of the ambulance stated the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established. Advertisement Shortly after the 47-year-olds death, rumours and conjectures began swirling over what led to Navalny s demise. And now, a human rights activist, claims that Navalny, Vladimir Putins most vocal critic, was most likely killed with a punch to the heart, a technique often used by KBG operatives, after being exposed to sub-zero temperatures for several hours. Heres what we know about this new claim. A single punch to the heart Vladimir Osechkin, founder of the human rights group Gulagu.net, is of the opinion that Navalny, the Russian opposition leader, was killed by a single punch to the heart, a technique used by the KGB. Speaking to The Times, Osechkin said that the bruising found on Navalnys body was consistent with the one-punch technique that KGB operatives are known to specialise in. It is an old method of the KGBs special forces divisions. They trained their operatives to kill a man with one punch in the heart, in the centre of the body. It was a hallmark of the KGB. Advertisement Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was last seen appearing via a video link from the Arctic penal colony during a hearing of Russias Supreme Court, in Moscow, Russia. File image/AP He further told the British publisher that he had been made aware by a source working at the penal colony of Navalny being forced to spend more than two-and-a-half hours outdoors in open-air solitary confinement space where temperatures could dip to minus 27 degrees Celsius. I think that they first destroyed his body by keeping him out in the cold for a long time and slowing the blood circulation down to a minimum, Osechkin told The Times. And then it becomes very easy to kill someone, within seconds, if the operative has some experience in this. Advertisement Osechkin further opined that former prisoners, who had served sentences in the penal colonies in the Arctic region, had previously reported inmates being killed by their jailers in this way. No official confirmation on Navalnys death Osechkins theory of Navalnys demise is just one of the many that is circulating currently. In fact, when Navalnys mother, Lyudmila, was given a notice of the death it stated sudden death syndrome as the cause of death. When Alexeis lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalnys death was sudden death syndrome, Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalnys Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on Saturday. Advertisement For the unaware, Sudden death syndrome is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death. Another theory surrounding Navalnys death is that he died of a blood clot. Yulia Navalnaya , widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has also accused the Kremlin of hiding his body to cover up killing him in an Arctic penal colony. In a nine-minute video message, she said that authorities were waiting for traces of yet another Putins Novichok to leave his body referring to the military nerve agent used to poison him years ago. Advertisement As of now, there is no official confirmation as to where is Navalnys body or what caused his death. On Tuesday, Navalnys family was told that his body would not be released for two weeks. His mother had been informed that the critics body was being held for chemical analysis. Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a video message, vowed to continue his fight against the Kremlin, while authorities denied his mother access to a morgue where his body is believed to be held after his death last week in an Arctic penal colony. AP The Kremlin speaks Advertisement On Tuesday, Russian president Vladimir Putins spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called the accusations unfounded and vulgar, but added that since Navalnaya was widowed just days ago he wouldnt comment further. He further added that investigation into Navalnys death is going on and slammed vulgar statements over the Kremlins responsibility for Navalnys death. In these conditions, when there is no information, it is unacceptable to make such blatantly vulgar remarks, Peskov was quoted as saying. Advertisement World condemns Russia over Navalnys death Peskovs last statement on vulgar remarks came after world leaders blamed Vladimir Putin and his government for the death of Navalny. US president Joe Biden said Washington does not know exactly what happened, but there is no doubt that the death of Navalny was a consequence of something Putin and his thugs did. Advertisement Voicing similar sentiments, European Union Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said Navalnys death showed that Putin fears nothing more than dissent from his own people. She further called it a grim reminder of what Putin and his regime are all about, and added it should provide impetus to unite in our fight to safeguard the freedom and safety of those who dare to stand up against autocracy. Advertisement Portraits of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny are pictured at the Russian embassy as people attend a protest and vigil held following the death of Navalny, in Kappara, Malta. Reuters Apart from world leaders expressing their shock and concern, people across the globe too paid tribute to the fearless critic and commemorated his death by holding memorials. In Russia itself, spontaneous memorials took place in several urban areas, resulting in the detention of over 400 people. In the Serbian capital of Belgrade, hundreds of Russians and others lit candles and laid flowers outside the Russian embassy, while hundreds gathered in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, holding banners saying Putin is the killer and We will not forgive. Advertisement In Israel too, hundreds rallied outside the Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv, chanting Russia without Putin! and Russia will be free! Crowds of protesters also rallied in Berlin and Paris, as well as the capitals of Latvia, Bulgaria and Estonia, plus other European cities. With inputs from agencies Bengals Sandeshkhali has been in the limelight since several women accused Trinamool Congress strongmen of sexual harassment and land grab earlier this month. Now, a new controversy has erupted after a Sikh cop accused BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari, who was on his way to the restive village, of calling him Khalistani Another controversy has erupted in West Bengals Sandeshkhali after a video of a Sikh IPS officer accusing a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) delegation of using the Khalistani slur for him surfaced on social media. Sandeshkhali, a village in North 24 Parganas district, has been in the limelight since several local women accused Trinamool Congress (TMC) strongmen of sexual harassment and land grab in early February. Advertisement The latest row took place when BJP leaders led by West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari were on their way to Sandeshkhali on Tuesday (20 February) and were stopped by the police. What happened? How the incident in Bengal has turned into a political slugfest? Lets take a closer look. Khalistani slur hurled at Bengal cop A Sikh cop deputed in West Bengals Dhamakhali alleged he was called a Khalistani by BJP leaders. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee shared a video on X in which the police officer can be seen telling BJP leaders, Why are you calling me a Khalistani? Is it because of my religion? Is it because I wear a turban? Advertisement As per The Quint, the cop was identified as Senior Superintendent of Police (IB) Jaspreet Singh, a West Bengal cadre IPS officer of the 2016 batch. Speaking to ABC Punjabi, Singh accused BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari of making the Khalistani remark against him. I will take action on this. I am not speaking about anyones religion, why are you speaking about my religion, Singh said, as per The Quint. Advertisement Later on Tuesday, the ruling TMC posted a video on X of some members of the Sikh community protesting outside the BJPs state headquarters at Muralidhar Lane in Kolkata over the alleged derogatory comment. Political row erupts over Khalistani remark Taking objection to the alleged remark, the West Bengal police called it malicious, racial and communally inciting. Advertisement We, the West Bengal Police fraternity, are outraged to share this video, where one of our own officers was called Khalistani by the states Leader of the Opposition. His fault: he is both a proud Sikh, and a capable police officer who was trying to enforce the law, it wrote on X. Advertisement The Bengal police said stern legal action was being initiated. This comment is as much malicious and racial as it is communally inciting. It is a criminal act. We unequivocally condemn the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individuals religious identity and beliefs aimed to incite people to take to violence and break the law... (2/3) West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) February 20, 2024 Advertisement West Bengal CM Banerjee accused the BJP of overstepping constitutional boundaries and insulting the Sikh community. Advertisement Today, the BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per @BJP4India every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS & SISTERS, revered for their pic.twitter.com/toYs8LhiuU Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) February 20, 2024 Advertisement Punjab CM and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Bhagwant Mann also condemned the incident. It is highly condemnable for a BJP leader to call a Sikh IPS officer of Bengal a traitor. Perhaps BJP does not know that till date, Punjabis have made maximum sacrifice in liberating the country and maintaining its independence. BJP should apologise to Punjabis, he said in a post on X. Advertisement Slamming the saffron party, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote on X, BJP-RSS have only worked to spread poison in the society in the name of religion in this country. The sting of religious fanaticism spread by the BJP is poisoning our diverse culture to such an extent that protectors of the law are being branded terrorists in the name of religion." Advertisement Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the country is with IPS officer Jaspreet Singh. , IPS https://t.co/iL6QnQEmin Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 20, 2024 Advertisement Harjinder Singh Dhami, president of the apex Sikh body Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), also issued a statement over the incident. The intentional character assassination of a Sikh IPS officer S Jaspreet Singh by the BJP leaders in West Bengal is highly condemnable. Leaders who have such thinking in the country should never forget that Sikhs have made the most sacrifices for the freedom and protection of the country, he wrote on X. BJP denies charge The BJP has rejected the allegations. No one used the pejorative term for the officer. He just chose to flout service rules and used the occasion to attract undue attention on to himself, by flying off the handle, when he should have been focusing on upholding the law, NDTV quoted the saffron partys statement as saying. BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who was among the leaders on their way to Sandeshkhali, claimed the police officer was not carrying out his duties. No one has abused him or used the word Khalistani. He is trying to make an issue. The police officer was not performing his duty as per the Constitution, Paul reportedly said. BJP leader Adhikari dared the Bengal police to prove their allegations. He also accused the ruling TMC of cooking up the issue to divert attention from Sandeshkhali. Sharing video and photos of police manhandling Sikh protesters, the BJP wrote on X, It is a shame that the WB Police is willing to be a political pawn in the hands of Mamata Banerjee and is dragging in religion. Here is a video and images to remind how disrespectful WB Police has been towards the Sikhs. You have pulled off turbans and dragged Sikh protestors on the streets, for taking on Mamata Banerjees decrepit administration. So dont lecture us. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (21 February), BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad hit out at Bengal CM Banerjee over the unrest in Sandeshkhali, saying the TMC would have to have to pay for it electorally. With inputs from agencies Police have recovered about 1,700 kg of Mephedrone at several locations in Pune and New Delhi. Popular by its street name Meow Meow, the synthetically manufactured drug produces effects similar to those of MDMA and cocaine Meow Meow comes in several forms such as white powder with a yellowish shade, crystals, capsules and pills. Pixabay (Representational Image) About 1,700 kg of synthetic stimulant drug Mephedrone, commonly known as Meow Meow, worth Rs 3,000 crore has been seized by the police after raids at multiple locations across Pune and New Delhi. A total of five people have been arrested so far in connection with one of Indias biggest-ever drug haul. Advertisement This is not the first time that large quantities of Mephedrone have been recovered in Maharashtra. Last year, the Pune City police and its counterparts in Mumbai and Nashik busted a drug racket operated by kingpin Lalit Patil in a two-month-long operation, leading to the seizure of more than 150 kg of Mephedrone worth Rs 300 crore. What is Meow Meow? How did the Pune Police carry out the drug bust? Lets take a closer look. What is mephedrone? Mephedrone is a synthetically produced stimulant of the amphetamine and cathinone category, as per Indian Express. It is known by various street names such as Meow Meow, White Magic, Bubbles, M-Cat and Drone. Advertisement The drug comes in several forms including white powder with a yellowish shade, crystals, capsules and pills, according to Australias Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF). The drug, which can be swallowed, sniffed or injected, produces effects similar to those of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, and cocaine, including teeth grinding. As per ADF, it enhances users empathy and kindness and makes them feel socially accepted and connected to others. Advertisement The reports of the use of Mephedrone first emerged in 2007, when it started being sold on the Internet. While the recreational drug was banned in the United Kingdom in 2010, it continued to flourish at raves, as well as in Europe. Meow Meow came under the radar of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 2011, two years after it entered the country, reported Rolling Stone. Advertisement In India, the drug was not part of the contraband list under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act till the early 2010s. However, after large quantities of the drug started being seized and many instances of its use as a narcotic in big cities emerged, Mephedrone was added to the list eventually in 2015, according to an Indian Express report. Advertisement The demand for Mephedrone has increased over the years which can be seen through the rise in the price of the drug. As per investigators, in 2021, one gram of Meow Meow was available in the illegal market at Rs 9,000. This rose to Rs 15,000 in 2022 and further to around Rs 20,000 (Rs 2 crore per kg) in present, the newspaper report added. Advertisement ALSO READ: What are nitazenes, drugs causing holes in skin, wreaking havoc in the UK? Pune Polices biggest drug overhaul The police carried out raids at a chemical manufacturing factory in Punes Daund taluka, two godowns in Vishrantwadi and some shops in Delhis South Extension, reported Indian Express. As of late Tuesday night, a total of 1,700 kg of the drug with an estimated worth of Rs 3,000 crore were recovered, as per the Pune Police. Advertisement Three people were arrested on Sunday by the Pune Police which reportedly seized 1.75 kg of Mephedrone (MD) worth Rs 3.85 crore from them. During the investigation, we traced two godowns where another 55 kg of MD was found. Following the interrogation of the trio and based on inputs received from them, another operation was carried out in the Kurkumbh MIDC area and approximately 550kg of MD was recovered from a unit there, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar was quoted as saying by PTI. Advertisement Unprecedented Action by Pune Police In the biggest ever haul yet,600 kg drugs worth approx Rs. 1100 Crores seized Like we said, #DrugFreePune is our top priority & we will do what it takes to ensure an end to manufacture,possession,use or distribution of illicit drugs in #Pune https://t.co/k2tZ8WXfdu CP Pune City Police (@CPPuneCity) February 20, 2024 Advertisement As per Indian Express, the chemical factory, which was guised as a pharmaceutical unit in Daunds Kurkumbh, was being used as a production line for Mephedrone. Advertisement The investigation points to a nationwide network of Mephedrone production and trafficking with possible international linkages, in a sense that a portion of the contraband may have been destined for locations abroad. We have already found links of this racket to all the metro cities in India and at least six-seven major cities in Maharashtra, Pune Police Commissioner Kumar told the newspaper. Advertisement Further probe led the Pune Police to two shops in Delhis South Extension. A large stock of Mephedrone hidden in these shops was seized. Close to 400 kg of the drug was seized from these shops and some persons are being questioned in this regard, a senior officer was quoted as saying by Indian Express. As per preliminary investigations, the drug was being transferred from units in the Kurkumbh MIDC to storage facilities in Delhi, reported NDTV. Two more people were detained on Tuesday. More suspects are being questioned. We have already arrested three people who worked as couriers. Two more people have been apprehended and their interrogation was on, a Pune crime branch officer said. Investigations are going on a war footing. Upward and downward linkages are being probed and our teams are working in close coordination with other agencies, the Pune police commissioner said, as per PTI. With inputs from agencies The Water Transport Workers Federation of India, whose members are employed at 11 of Indias 12 major ports, have decided not to handle military shipments for Israel amid the ongoing war. The trade union has said that they stand against the killing of innocent people like women and children The Water Transport Workers Federation of India, which represents 3,500 workers has refused to handle all cargo ships transporting weapons to Israel. Image used for representational purposes/Reuters The Israel-Hamas war continues to rage on; its Day 137 and the casualties keep mounting with the Gaza Strip being reduced to dust owing to the widespread destruction. Country upon country has called for a ceasefire in the fighting, but Israel remains steadfast in its war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Advertisement And joining the call for a cessation of war and hostilities is an Indian trade union, representing employees at 11 major ports. The Water Transport Workers Federation of India has announced its decision to refuse to handle cargo shipments of weapons linked to Israel. Whats going on? Why have these workers made such an announcement? Will it affect India-Israel ties? Stand against the war The Water Transport Workers Federation of India (WTFI), which represents 3,500 workers and has representatives at 11 of the countrys 12 major ports, has refused to handle all cargo ships transporting weapons to Israel. The union said it has decided not to handle military shipments for Israel at any port in the country. Advertisement Its important to note that the Water Transport Workers Federation of India is affiliated with the Centre for Indian Trade Unions, the labour wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Its statement read: We, the Port workers, part of labour unions, would always stand against the war and killing of innocent people like women and children. The recent attack of Israel on Gaza plunges thousands of Palestinians into immense suffering and loss. Women and children have been blown to pieces in the war. Parents were unable to recognise their children killed in bombings which were exploding everywhere. Advertisement Amazing and proud of the water transport workers federation of India pic.twitter.com/pfUdjSCFTT Dr. Sylvia Karpagam (@sakie339) February 18, 2024 Advertisement The statement further read, The Water Transport Workers Federation of India has decided to refuse to load or unload weaponised cargoes from Israel or any other country which could handle military equipment and its allied cargo for war in Palestine. Advertisement They also declared their solidarity with those who were campaigning for peace. We call upon the workers of the world and peace-loving people to stand with the demand of free Palestine. Fishing trawlers are seen in front of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust in Mumbai. Image used for representational purposes/Reuters T Narendra Rao, general secretary of the Water Transport Federation of India (WTFI) later told The Wire, We not handle any weapon-laden cargo, which will go onto assist Israel to kill more women and children as we are seeing and reading every day in the news. Advertisement He was further quoted as telling Arab News that the working class organisation always opposes any war. Because if a war takes place, the main victims are the poor women and children. So we never want to have a war, he said. Making a statement The stance taken by the WTFI has elicited reactions from many within the country. The All India Trade Union Congress, the oldest and second-largest trade union federation in India representing millions of workers, has also extended its support to the water transport workers. Advertisement N Sai Bala Ji, an international relations expert and former student leader at Jawaharlal Nehru University, was also quoted by Arab News as saying, The whole world is turning a blind eye to what is happening in Gaza the mindless brutalities and genocide. The letter by the Water Transport Workers Federation of India gives us hope that the people are still fighting for justice and standing in solidarity with the hapless people. Advertisement Professor Apoorvanand Jha from Delhi University also echoed similar statements. Speaking to Arab News, he said: It is very heartening to see the workers of India joining the international working class in boycotting Israel and thus making a statement asking it stop the genocidal violence against Palestinians. Government speaks But would this affect the India-Israel ties? Advertisement India and Israel have been close partners, with Jerusalem being one of New Delhis biggest and most dependable purchaser of weapons. Amid the ongoing war, New Delhi has maintained a balanced stance condemning the Hamas attack on 7 October last year, but calling for a ceasefire as well as calls for dialogue on a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. Advertisement On the current stance, government sources have been quoted as saying that this will have no impact on the Indian ports. An official speaking to Business Standard explained that such supplies are made in containers, and most containerised cargo is shipped via ports running their terminals in public-private-partnership (PPP) mode. Additionally, unions are not strong at these PPP terminals, as theyre on the payroll of the private operator. Advertisement A view shows rubble at the site of a damaged UNRWA school, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, in Gaza City. Reuters Ongoing Israel-Hamas war Since the assault began on 7 October 2023, Israel has launched a fierce assault in Gaza, vowing to wipe out Hamas. According to health ministry officials, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed so far. And on Tuesday, the United States, Israels top ally, once again vetoed a draft United Nations Security Council resolution on the Israel-Hamas war, blocking a demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield had signalled earlier that the Washington would veto the draft resolution over concerns it could jeopardise talks between the US, Egypt, Israel and Qatar that seek to broker a pause in the war and the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Any action this council takes right now should help, not hinder these sensitive, and ongoing negotiations. And we believe that the resolution on the table right now would, in fact, negatively impact those negotiations, Thomas-Greenfield told the council ahead of the vote. In the meantime, the fighting has also taken a toll on Israels economy . News agency AFP reported that the countrys GDP had shrunk by almost one-fifth in the final quarter of 2023, compared to the three months prior. The country has also seen massive labour shortages and the collapse of the tourism industry since the outbreak of war. With inputs from agencies The South China Sea is of crucial importance not only because it is rich in resources but also because it is one of the most important trade routes. In recent times, India has been establishing its presence around the waters as a way to counterbalance Chinas assertive and muscle power In recent years, the South China Sea has got geopolitical and defence experts sounding the alarm. While some pundits have been talking about how it could be a source of potential instability for the Asian region, others have warned that it could be where the next war plays out. Its been talked about extensively, as China continues to exert its presence there while other countries, including India and the US, try to contain the Dragons reach in troubled waters. Advertisement Amid this situation, we deep dive into why exactly is the South China Sea important in the Indo-Pacific region and Indias growing involvement in the disputes emanating there. The South China Sea dispute, explained The South China Sea, spread across 3,500,000 km, is bounded in the north by China, in the west by the Indochinese Peninsula, in the east by the islands of Taiwan and the Philippines, and in the south by the Indonesia. The countries China, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam, surrounding this sea, however, have bickered over territorial control for centuries, with tensions soaring to new heights in recent years. Its important to note that Brunei is the only party that does not lay claim over any disputed islands, but it does say part of the sea falls within its exclusive economic zone. Advertisement Of these countries, China eyes it the most, claiming almost all of it to be under their control. It marks out most of the South China Sea as its sovereign territory with the so-called nine-dash line, claiming historic rights. But other countries have refuted Chinas claim. In fact, in 2013 the Philippines took this matter to an international tribunal in The Hague, which ruled against China. Beijing, however, refused to take part in the hearings and rejects the ruling. Advertisement A protester holds a mock Chinese flag at Manilas Rizal park, Philippines to condemn a incident that involved a Chinese fishing vessel hitting a Filipino fishing boat. In 2013 the Philippines took the matter of the South China Sea to an international tribunal in The Hague, which ruled against China. File image/AP As per a Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) report, Beijing has increased efforts to reclaim land in the South China Sea, by either increasing the size of islands or creating new islands altogether. Additionally, China has constructed ports, military installations, and airstrips particularly in the Paracel and Spratly Islands, where it has 20 and seven outposts, respectively. Advertisement Moreover, in the past few years, Beijing has also tried to stop other nations from conducting any military or economic operation without its consent, saying the sea falls under its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Importance of the South China Sea But why is it that China keeps exerting its claim on the waters? Advertisement Thats because there are 11 billion barrels of oil and 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in deposits under the South China Sea, according to the estimates of the United States Energy Information Agency. Also, the sea is a rich fishing ground; the BBC had previously reported that more than half of the worlds fishing vessels operate in these waters. Advertisement Apart from this, the South China Sea is also a major trade route. As per the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, over 21 per cent of global trade, amounting to a whopping $3.37 trillion transited through the waters in 2016. Filipino fishermen sort fish after arriving from a week-long trip to the disputed Scarborough Shoal, in Infanta, Pangasinan province, Philippines. The South China Sea is a rich fishing ground; more than half of the worlds fishing vessels operate in these waters. File image/Reuters Theres also Chinas ambitions at play. As an essay in GlobalChallenges stated, Chinese territorial and maritime claims over large swaths of the South China Sea are based not only on economic and security considerations, but also on national identity making and the renewal of Chinas past grandeur, which today is taking the form of President Xi Jinpings vision of the China dream (Zhongguo meng). Advertisement Perhaps, it is because of this view that China takes the matter of South China Sea as a domestic issue and not something over which other claimant states and even less so the international community should have a say. The Wilson Centre also adds that by exerting its strength in the South China Sea, China is aiming to push back against the US-led world order. It further notes that if China is able to permanently expand into the waters, global geopolitics will enter a new and different era. Southeast Asia will inevitably be rendered subordinate and compliant to Chinas will. Advertisement Indias growing influence in South China Sea The United States has maintained that the waters are crucial to its national interest and often conducts freedom of navigation operations (Fonops) through the area in a message to all parties. And in an attempt to contain Chinas presence in the waters, Washington has increased its military activity and naval presence in South Asia. Moreover, it has also provided weapons and aid to Chinas opponents. Advertisement India, too, sees Beijings actions in the South China Sea as a threat to the regional balance of power, prompting it to bolster its naval presence in the region. In fact, in recent years, New Delhi has been increasingly involved in the disputes arising in the waters. A Philippine Coast Guard personnel looks through a binocular while conducting a resupply mission for Filipino troops stationed at a grounded warship in the South China Sea. File image/Reuters Its important to note that this is a major shift in stance for New Delhi; earlier, it had maintained a neutral stance on the tribunals order on the South China Sea. Advertisement In 2019, the Indian Navy for the first time conducted joint exercises with the US, Japanese, and Philippine navies in the South China Sea. Then in 2020 and 2021, India held naval exercises with the Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, and Indonesia. In May 2023, India for the first time sent warships to participate in a two-day joint exercise with the navies of seven ASEAN states in the South China Sea. Advertisement India has also increased its military sales to the Philippines and Vietnam. For instance, in 2022, New Delhi inked a deal with the Philippines for 100 BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles . A year later, in July 2023, New Delhi announced that it would deliver the Indian Missile Corvette INS Kirpan to the Vietnamese navy. In the same year, India also offered the Philippines at least seven helicopters that would be used for the rescue and humanitarian efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during disasters in the country. Reasons for Indias growing influence But whats behind Indias growing influence in this sphere? There are multiple reasons. Firstly, India is concerned that tensions in these waters could affect its trade as well as balance in the region. New Delhi, as The Diplomat writes in an essay, wants to prevent tensions from spilling into the Indian Ocean, the traditional sphere of influence for India. A glimpse from the inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME-2023) which successfully culminated in the South China Sea. File image/PTI Moreover, New Delhi sees the South China Sea as a furtherance to Modis Act East Policy. Theres also the US factor at play. By aligning with the US, India is able to further its partnership with Washington a win-win situation for both countries. As an ORF report states, This will annoy Beijing, but rattling China is necessary if India is to suitably protect its interests from the Himalayas to the maritime domain. With inputs from agencies Tune into Firstpost Defence summit on 24 February at 3 pm. You can register at www.firstpostdefencesummit.com The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announced that aid deliveries to northern Gaza have been suspended. The reason: an inability to ensure the safety and security of its employees following a convoy of trucks encountering gunfire and looting The World Food Programme (WFP) has said that it will suspend deliveries to Gaza owing to the violence there. File image/AP Hunger is ravaging Gaza, and the situation is dire. Amid this, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announced on Tuesday that aid deliveries to northern Gaza have been suspended. The reason: an inability to ensure the safety and security of its employees following a convoy of trucks encountering gunfire and looting. Advertisement The decision to pause deliveries to the north of the Gaza Strip has not been taken lightly, as we know it means the situation there will deteriorate further and more people risk dying of hunger, the World Food Programme (WFP) said in a press release. WFP is deeply committed to urgently reaching desperate people across Gaza but the safety and security to deliver critical food aid and for the people receiving it must be ensured, the statement went on to say. Heres why UN food agency has stopped delivering aid to northern Gaza, and how it will affect the situation in Gaza. Unprecedented levels of desperation in Gaza The World Food Programme (WFP) resumed deliveries on Sunday after a three-week halt but its convoy faced complete chaos and violence due to the collapse of civil order, it said. Advertisement Twenty weeks into Israels war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, UN agencies have warned that food and safe water are very scarce and WFP said its teams had reported unprecedented levels of desperation. The Rome-based agency said it had planned to send trucks of food each day for seven days. But on Sunday the convoy had to fend off multiple attempts by people trying to climb aboard our trucks, then facing gunfire once we entered Gaza City, it said. Advertisement Twenty weeks into Israels war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, UN agencies have warned that food and safe water are very scarce and WFP said its teams had reported unprecedented levels of desperation. File image/AP On Monday, the second convoys journey north faced complete chaos and violence due to the collapse of civil order. Several trucks were looted and a truck driver was beaten. The remaining flour was spontaneously distributed off the trucks in Gaza City, amidst high tension and explosive anger, it added. WFP said it was forced to pause the deliveries until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions. Advertisement It added that it was not a decision taken lightly because it means the situation there will deteriorate further and more people risk dying of hunger. People are dying Since the start of the war, Gaza has been plunged into a food crisis, with outside aid severely restricted. In December, the Integrated Phase Classification report, compiled by 15 agencies including the World Food Programme, warned of the risk of famine in northern Gaza by May unless conditions improved significantly. Advertisement Another report released on Monday confirmed Gazas precipitous slide into hunger and disease. Food and safe water have become extremely scarce, and diseases are rampant, jeopardising womens and childrens nutrition and immunity, resulting in a surge in acute malnutrition. People are already dying of hunger-related causes. Nutrition screenings at shelters and health centres in the northern Gaza revealed that 15.6 per cent, or one in every six children under the age of two, are acutely malnourished. File image/AP According to the UNICEF and WFP, based on recent data, the situation in the Northern Gaza Strip is particularly dire. Nutrition screenings at shelters and health centres in the north revealed that 15.6 per cent, or one in every six children under the age of two, are acutely malnourished. Advertisement The war started after Hamass 7 October attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israels assault on Gaza has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territorys health ministry. Advertisement The World Food Programme (WFP) has said that it will suspend deliveries to Gaza owing to the violence there. File image/AP With inputs from AFP The government is ready for the fifth round of discussion with farmers, said Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda as agitating farmers try to proceed to Delhi from the Shambhu border on Wednesday Farmers in India protest over the minimum prices for their crops, on the outskirts of the city of Amritsar. AFP. As thousands of farmers from Punjab brace to resume their Delhi Chalo march, the central government Wednesday said it is ready to discuss all the issues including MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR and has invited farmer leaders for talks. In a post on X, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Arjun Munda said the government is ready for the fifth round of discussions with agriculturers. Advertisement I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us (government) to maintain peace, the minister said. Following four unproductive talks with the government on securing a legal guarantee for minimum support prices (MSP), farmers, on Tuesday, announced their plan to resume the march on 21 February from two points along the Punjab-Haryana border. Advertisement These farmers were camping at the Haryana-Punjab Shambu border. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has said the farmers dont want to create chaos and will remain peaceful. Another farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said the protest march must be allowed to proceed to Delhi peacefully. Security has been heightened across Delhi as well as its surrounding areas and check points have been set up by authorities to restrict farmers from entering the national capital. Advertisement Despite the distance from the national capital, the Delhi Police conducted drills on Tuesday to reinforce barricades at entry points. Meanwhile, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has instructed the Punjab government to prevent large gatherings of farmers. The recent talks concluded on Sunday, proposing a five-year MSP procurement agreement for moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize, and cotton. This offer was officially rejected by farm leaders, who deemed it unfavorable to farmers. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis is on a two-day state visit to India. He is accompanied by senior officials as well as a high-powered business delegation External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar called on the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis in New Delhi on Wednesday. The Greek leader is on a state visit to India and will be attending the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue that begins on 21 February. He will join the inauguration session as the chief guest. Advertisement Valued his commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. Look forward to the strengthening of our strategic partnership, said Jaishankar in a post on X, along with the picture of his meeting with the Greece PM. Mitsotakis is on a two-day state visit to India, 21 and 22 February, and is accompanied by senior officials as well as a high-powered business delegation. Delighted to call on Prime Minister @kmitsotakis of Greece today. Valued his commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. Look forward to the strengthening of our strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/SP1LnYY4Tv Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 21, 2024 Advertisement On Tuesday, EAM Jaishankar met the foreign minister of Greece, Giorgos Gerapetritis, who is also in Indias capital for the Raisina Dialogue 2024. Both the leaders discussed the strengthening of India-Greece and India-Europe cooperation. The visit of PM Mitsotakis is the first of a bilateral Head of State or Head of Government level from Greece to India after 15 years. The last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in January 2008 when the then-Greek PM, Kostas Karamanlis, travelled to the country along with Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis. Advertisement Before returning to Athens the Greece PM will also be visiting Mumbai. He is also scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi will also host a lunch banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. The relations between India and Greece elevated to a Strategic Partnership during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Greece in August 2023. Advertisement In Greece, PM Modi said his tour will add momentum to the friendship between the two countries, particularly people-to-people linkages. He also welcomed Greece into the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and looked forward to Greeces membership of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the MEA said. The India-Greece ties are based on shared cultural values, a commitment to foster economic growth, and collaboration in the fields of security and defence, shipping, and maritime, and are marked by convergence on regional and global issues. The two countries have also been cooperating closely in various multilateral forums. Advertisement What is Raisina Dialogue? The Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics. During the Dialogue, sessions are conducted focusing on addressing the most challenging issues faced by the world. The conference takes place in New Delhi and is attended by people from political, business, media, and civil society backgrounds. The conference is hosted by the Delhi-based think tank Observer Research Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs. Advertisement Raisina Dialogue Dates The Raisina Dialogue will be held till 23 February 2024 (Friday). The theme for this years edition is Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create." More than 2,500 participants from around 115 countries will be joining the conference in person. The participants include ministers, former prime ministers and presidents, military commanders, technology leaders, academics, journalists, scholars on strategic affairs, and experts from leading think tanks. Advertisement The Raisina Dialogue is expected to be viewed by millions across the globe on various digital platforms. With inputs from agencies Warmly welcomed FM Peter Szijjarto of Hungary in New Delhi. As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year, noted the significant advances in political, bilateral trade and investment and education sectors. Also spoke stronger collaboration via Visegrad and EU. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukraine conflict, Jaishankar wrote on X EAM S Jaishankar with Hungarian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto in New Delhi. ANI External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto in New Delhi and discussed the significant advances in political, bilateral trade and investment and education sectors, and exchanged perspectives on the Ukraine conflict. Taking to X, Jaishankar said, Warmly welcomed FM Peter Szijjarto of Hungary in New Delhi. As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year, noted the significant advances in political, bilateral trade and investment and education sectors. Advertisement #WATCH | EAM Dr S Jaishankar meets Hungarian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto in New Delhi "As we celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year, noted the significant advances in political, bilateral trade and investment and education sectors. Also pic.twitter.com/4IwvyoHYp2 ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Also spoke stronger collaboration via Visegrad and EU. Exchanged perspectives on the Ukraine conflict, he wrote on X. Szijjarto arrived in New Delhi earlier in the day to participate in the CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave which will be held on February 21-22 in the national capital. Advertisement Over the recent few years, India has been at the forefront in creating a conducive trade and investment environment in the country. Furthermore, with three currently undergoing trade negotiations i.e, The India-UK, India-EU and EFTA (Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland), India and Europe present high potentials of mutual growth and collaborations, according to the official CII website. Advertisement The maiden edition of CII India Europe Business & Sustainability Conclave, held from 28 February- 1 March, 2023, was one of the largest congregations of senior ministers, policy makers and business leaders from European Countries and India, cutting across sectors. The conclave focused on the strategic role of India-Europe partnership in changing geopolitical scenario, strengthening bilateral engagements and discussions on emerging economic opportunities. The emphasis was laid on sustainability being the key aspect of the India-Europe partnership. Advertisement According to the website, To take forward the agenda of India - Europe partnership for better sustainable future and to build upon the takeaways of the first edition of CII India Europe Business & Sustainability Conclave, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India decided to organise the 2nd Edition of the CII India Europe Business & Sustainability Conclave. Advertisement The conclave will aim at putting forward the business perspectives and priorities and deliberating on the opportunities and challenges for businesses in India and Europe. With inputs from agencies The minister made the announcement and welcomed the NRIs who had come to the Vidhana Soudha today at Speaker U T Khaders invitation to observe the assemblys proceedings State government of Karnataka would establish a separate ministry to handle the matters of Kannadigas who are Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara informed the legislative assembly on Wednesday. The minister made the announcement and welcomed the NRIs who had come to the Vidhana Soudha today at Speaker U T Khaders invitation to observe the assemblys proceedings. Advertisement The NRIS came from Western Asian nations, Australia, Singapore, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Canada. In Kerala, there is a separate NRI Ministry at the state level, as many people from Kerala go abroad, they earn there and send money back. And also to address several of their issues like in the case of deaths abroad to bring the bodies back. So we said in our manifesto that, like in Kerala, in Karnataka too we will create a ministry (for NRIs), Parameshwara said. He said, I would like to say that in the coming days, our government will do it (create an NRI Ministry). The state government will provide all necessary help to them (NRIs) in accordance with law. They have shared some issues, they will be seriously considered and fulfilled. Parameshwara headed the Congress Manifesto Committee for the 2023 assembly polls. Advertisement Speaking about the increasing trend among NRIs to return to India and contribute towards the countrys development, the minister said they are willing to invest here, and also provide CSR funds from their businesses. He said that in 2008 itself the Karnataka government had set up an NRI Forum to address their issues and concerns, and that the current government has appointed Dr Arathi Krishna as Deputy Chairman of the forum. Advertisement Congress MLA Ashok Kumar Rai even pitched for setting up a separate board for the welfare of NRIs from the state. With inputs from PTI Gurupatwant Singh Pannun has threatened the India and England teams to cancel the match in Ranchi. He also urged the CPI (Maoist) to create disturbance in a bid to cancel the match. An FIR has been lodged against him at Dhurwa police station under the IT Act and investigation has been initiated, said PK Mishra, DSP, Hatia An FIR has been lodged against US-based designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun for threatening to disrupt the fourth Test match between India and England in Ranchi, officials said, adding that security has been tightened in the Jharkhand capital in the wake of the threats. According to PTI, citing officials, Pannun, who has been designated as a terrorist by the home ministry, has also appealed to the banned CPI (Maoist) through a video uploaded on social media to disrupt the match. Advertisement The fourth Test will commence at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi from 23 February. The England team reached the city on Tuesday. Gurupatwant Singh Pannun has threatened the India and England teams to cancel the match in Ranchi. He also urged the CPI (Maoist) to create disturbance in a bid to cancel the match. An FIR has been lodged against him at Dhurwa police station under the IT Act and investigation has been initiated, PTI quoted Deputy Superintendent of Police, Hatia, P K Mishra, as saying to reporters on Tuesday. Pannun has been on the National Investigation Agencys radar since 2019, when the anti-terror federal agency registered its first case against the designated individual terrorist. Known for inciting fear and spreading terror in Punjab and other parts of the country through intimidation tactics, Pannun has remained under NIA scrutiny. On 3 February, 2021, the special NIA court issued non-bailable arrest warrants against Pannun, subsequently labeling him a Proclaimed Offender on 29 November of the same year. Advertisement In a move aimed at tightening its grip on Pannun, who operates from the US and Canada, the NIA seized a property belonging to him in Amritsar, Punjab, and in the Union Territory of Chandigarh in September 2023. Pannun serves as the self-proclaimed general counsel for the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organisation. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The military exercise, which began on 19 February, saw the participation of countries like US, Japan, Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday addressed the opening ceremony of the Milan 2024 naval exercise in Vishakhapatnam. Our historical experience informs us that Armed Forces also play a significant role in preserving peace. It is seen in concepts and practices such as deterrence, conflict prevention, peace-keeping, and also in various humanitarian assistance efforts especially during disasters, Singh said at the 12th edition of the Milan naval exercise. Advertisement VIDEO | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) attends the opening ceremony of MILAN 2024 a multi-national naval exercise held in Visakhapatnam. #MILAN2024 pic.twitter.com/BZir7hvTM4 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 The military exercise, which began on 19 February, saw the participation of countries like US, Japan, Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Singh added, Positive peace, that we should collectively aspire to in our age of democratic and rules-based world order, where individual countries proactively collaborate with each other for achieving shared peace and prosperity. This concept of peace goes beyond the mere absence of direct military conflict and encompasses broader notions of security, justice, and cooperation. Advertisement VIDEO | Here's what Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) said at the opening ceremony of MILAN 2024 in Visakhapatnam. "It gives me immense pleasure to be here at Visakhapatnam for the opening ceremony of MILAN 2024. I take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to pic.twitter.com/eoPU1mfiYX Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 Advertisement This years theme is Forging Naval Alliances for a Secure Maritime Future. Milan 2024 aims to strengthen collaboration, especially when the situation at the Red Sea remains tense. Advertisement Positive peace is the shared peace of one and all, with the cooperation of one and all. There is no Indian peace or Australian peace or Japanese peace, rather it is shared global peace, the defence minister said. He also mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of diplomacy and quoted him saying, This is not an era of war. But it is one of dialogue and diplomacy. In an address at the inaugural session of the Raisina Dialogue, Mitsotakis described the conflict in Ukraine as much more than a local war on European soil and that it is a brutal challenge to international stability and the rules-based order that India has supported. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasised the significance of India as a crucial ally in the pursuit of global peace and security during his address at the inaugural session of the Raisina Dialogue on Wednesday. Mitsotakis advocated for strengthening the partnership between Europe and India, suggesting that it should be the cornerstone of Europes foreign policy. Advertisement Describing the conflict in Ukraine as much more than a local war on European soil Mitsotakis in an address at the inaugural session of the Raisina Dialogue said that it is a brutal challenge to international stability and the rules-based order that India has supported. #WATCH | At the ninth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis says "India is the world's fastest big economy. Greece has over the past years enjoyed some of the fastest growth rates of any European country. Mutual investment is a major goal of our pic.twitter.com/WJ49P8lJVi ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, foreign ministers from a number of countries and a galaxy of strategic affairs experts and academicians attended the session. Advertisement When it comes to shaping global debates and addressing great challenges, India is now often regarded, and rightly so, as a consensus builder and a voice of reason in an increasingly polarised world, the Greek prime minister said. Today, India is a great power on the world stage and an important ally in pursuit of peace and security a rising force at the heart of G20 and a leading player in the fight against climate change, said Mitsotakis, the chief guest at the Raisina Dialogue. Advertisement Strengthening our partnership with India should be the cornerstone of Europes foreign policy and this is certainly true for my country, he said. Highlighting the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), Mitsotakis said Greece is sitting right at the centre of it.We are your natural doorstep to Europe and beyond, he said, calling the IMEC as a peace project. Advertisement The war in Gaza and the turmoil in the Middle East are undoubtedly destabilising but it has not undermined the profound and powerful logic behind the IMEC, he said, noting that the stakeholders in the project must work tirelessly to implement the project. The IMEC is a peace project which can bring peace and prosperity, Mitsotakis said. On Ukraine, the Greek leader said it is not a local war on European soil.Ukraine is much more than a local war on European soil. It is a brutal challenge to international stability and the international rules-based order that India has supported and has every interest in maintaining it, he said. Advertisement We all have a responsibility to use the power we have on the international stage and none of us can afford to sit on the sidelines, he said.I am convinced in Ukraine, India has an important role to play. It has a voice that should be heard. Our common humanity and interconnectedness are inescapablethe Hindu scriptures put it so powerfully that the World is One Family, Mitsotakis said. Advertisement Delving into major geopolitical challenges, he said the Indo-Pacific is a major area of focus for the European Union. The Greek leader also talked about challenges facing democracies and democratic values. Society functions best when all its citizens are equal and have the right to share in the running of the state, he said.We must, if necessary, own up to our mistakes, but above all we must listen to each other with mutual respect and without preaching or exhibiting any sense of moral superiority, he said. Advertisement Democracy can work best if all our citizens have the information they need to make informed decisions in the ballot boxes, he said. On India-Greece ties, Mitsotakis said good progress has been made.We are at a unique moment of mutually beneficial opportunities one in which Greece, given its geographic, cultural and strategic proximity, can act as an interlocutor between India and Europe and even between Global North and Global South as well as between East and West, he said. Advertisement The Raisina Dialogue is Indias flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-strategy. The theme of the three-day conference is Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create. With inputs from PTI. The Greek prime minister and his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis were greeted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Wednesday received the Guard of Honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. #WATCH | Delhi: Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis receives guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan He is on a State visit to India from 21-22 February. pic.twitter.com/qoolZTHsDv ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Advertisement Mitsotakis is on a two-day state visit to India and will attend the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue as the chief guest and keynote speaker. The Greek prime minister and his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis were greeted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan. #WATCH | Delhi: Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis along with his wife Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis arrives at Rashtrapati Bhavan; received by PM Narendra Modi. pic.twitter.com/eIhOFtCr0f ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Advertisement After meeting the Indian prime minister, Mitsotakis said, It is a privilege to be in India on an official state visit, reciprocating the visit of the Prime Minister to Greece a few months ago, referring to PM Modis official visit to the country last year. Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi: Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis says, "It is a privilege to be in India on an official state visit, reciprocating the visit of the Prime Minister to Greece a few months ago. For Greece, the strategic partnership between our two countries is of particular pic.twitter.com/LIf08ON0u7 ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Advertisement He added, For Greece, the strategic partnership between our two countries is of particular importance and we will have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics, political consultations, strategic partnership, but also fostering our economic lives between our two economies. Advertisement The Greek leader also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhis Rajghat. Paying homage to the Father of the Nation! PM @kmitsotakis of the Hellenic Republic paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Mahatmas timeless values continue to inspire humanity. pic.twitter.com/KDeeLn0D7w Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 21, 2024 Advertisement Notably, this is the first Head of State/government-level visit from Greece to India in 15 years. The last such visit took place in 2008. PM Modi visited the countrys capital Athens on 25 August 2023 during which the relations between India and Greece were elevated to Strategic Partnership. There might be a pushback against globalisation but theres no escaping the fact that we live in a globalised world What constitutes conservatism? What is the future of conservative politics? There might be a pushback against globalisation but theres no escaping the fact that we live in a globalised world. Given the context, what defines conservatism across continents, and what connects conservative politics in India, Europe, the USA or other parts of the world? Can we say that unlike liberalism that seeks to establish one unified pathway, the tenets of conservatism dont travel well because the foundation and traditions that underlie a culture and a civilization cannot be force-fitted into a single recipe? Advertisement These and other interesting questions were thrown up at the inaugural BYJM-KAS India Dialogue in New Delhi on Monday when policymakers, scholars and thinkers met at a unique platform to discuss the different conservative political approaches and the grounds of commonality and understanding. At a time when mass migration and aggressive promotion of gender ideology are triggering a wave of nationalist movements across the world, and conservative or right-of-centre parties especially in the West are gaining in strength, there has never been a greater need for such a conversation between political parties and movements across the world. It is only fitting that such an initiative would be undertaken by BYJM, the youth wing of the BJP, the worlds largest political party that is in power in the worlds largest democracy. BYJM organised the event in association with The Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) that bears the name of Germanys first chancellor who rebuilt the nation from ruins after the Second World War. Advertisement As James Jay Carafano of the US-based Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, pointed out, in his two-decade role as a policy wonk, he has never found an opportunity to sit on a panel that features conservatives from Indo-Pacific, Europe and the US. Thats what the problem is, said Carafano, an expert in US national security and foreign policy challenges. Advertisement But there are inherent problems with such an attempt, timely as it is. Since Conservatism is not doctrinaire in approach, and instead tries to conserve traditional values, customs, institutions and practices through specificity instead of dealing in abstracts, definition of what conservatism signifies, is crucial before any synergy may be attempted across continents and cultures. Advertisement Turns out that that is a tricky task. As author Vijay Chauthaiwale, in-charge of the BJPs department of foreign affairs, pointed out, the BJP does not identify itself as a conservative party in the sense it is understood in the West. It sees itself as an economically liberal and socially conservative party that stresses on Indias civilizational mores and nationalism, which, in the Indian context is not a pejorative concept. Advertisement Chauthaiwale also underlined the dichotomy of discourse in liberal media that terms the BJP a Hindu nationalist party almost to suggest through the nomenclature that it is a divisive force while Germanys Christian Democratic Party is not identified either as a Christian or nationalist. That dichotomy, according to political scientist and columnist Sajjan Kumar, arises due to the fact that the right lacks proper analytical categories and operates within the discourse frameworks imposed upon it by the Left. And since the Left controls the epistemological methodologies, the right finds it difficult to define itself. According to Kumar, conservatives havent defined what conservatism is and that lies at the heart of the problem. Advertisement To Carafano, the differences in conservative approaches are solvable because the overarching framework lies in bringing positive changes in lives of people, which conservative political forces focus on, and the civilisational values that underpin conservatism are the same, whether in the West or India. The second panel, featuring among others member of the Economic Advisory Council to the prime minister, Shamika Ravi, along with policymakers from Germany, focused on challenges and opportunities arising from the tech disruption. To a question on whether India has missed the manufacturing bus to cater to its young demography, Ravi said there are many buses and while there may not be another China since that moment in history is over, the government is laser-focused on finding ways to boost manufacturing with production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes. Advertisement What emerged from the event is that a continental conservatist movement is on the rise and while the very nature of conservatism (to conserve, preserve) sit at odds with radical shifts yet a common ground to link the movements must be found to cater to the next million. 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 . The prolonged siege on Avdiivka culminated in its fall, underscoring the grim realities of war a shortage of manpower and ammunition leading to a strategic retreat Among the many global conflicts and amid the myriad of headlines, there exists a relentless battle that has persisted, largely overlooked, yet profoundly impactful the Ukraine War. As the world shifted its focus elsewhere, the war-torn landscape of Ukraine continued to bear witness to a struggle of resilience against an assertive aggressor. Advertisement The year 2023 dawned with a glimmer of hope for Ukraine. Plans for a counteroffensive were in motion, buoyed by rallying support from the West. Optimism was palpable; it seemed as though Ukraine could turn the tide of the conflict in its favor. However, fast forward a year, and the once bright picture has been dimmed by a stark reality. Hope dims for Ukraine in 2024 Ukraine finds itself stagnant, with no significant territorial gains to boast. Accusations of corruption plague its military, while the frontline paints a grim portrait of the ongoing struggle. Moreover, the lifeline of Western aid appears to be dwindling, raising pertinent questions about the sustainability of Ukraines defense efforts. Is this the year Ukraine loses the war it once felt confident of winning? Advertisement Fall of Avdiivka Recent events serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges Ukraine faces. Russias latest offensive saw the strategic capture of Avdiivka, a town nestled in eastern Ukraine. Beyond mere territorial conquest, Avdiivka holds symbolic significance as a gateway to Donetsk, a city fiercely contested since 2014. The town emerged as a beacon of Ukrainian resistance following its recapture by Ukrainian forces, only to be relentlessly targeted by Moscow in subsequent assaults. Advertisement The prolonged siege on Avdiivka culminated in its fall, underscoring the grim realities of war a shortage of manpower and ammunition leading to a strategic retreat. We didnt have enough people. We didnt have enough shells. We didnt have enough possibilities to throw them back. If we had have a large amount, or at least an ok amount of shells, we could have stopped the enemy. But unfortunately, we didnt have them, said Commander of the Battery of the Artillery Reconnaissance Control of the 110th Brigade, Andrii Teren. Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys indictment of Western delays in aid delivery amplifies the mounting frustrations within Ukraine, where the lack of timely support is perceived as playing into Russias hands. It is now an extremely difficult situation in several parts of the frontline, exactly where Russian troops have concentrated maximum reserves. They are taking advantage of delays in aid to Ukraine, and this is a very sensitive matter. Artillery shortages, the need for frontline air defence, and a longer range of our weapons, said President Zelensky. Advertisement Russias success in capturing Avdiivka marks a pivotal moment in the conflict. It not only grants Moscow access to Donetsk but also serves to push back Ukrainian frontline defences. However, beyond the tactical gains lies a more profound symbolic victory for Russia, further emboldening its resolve. Second anniversary of the Ukraine War Advertisement As the war approaches its second anniversary, Ukraine finds itself on the defensive, grappling with Russian incursions while striving to avert an all-out confrontation. Conversely, Russia exhibits an offensive stance, bolstering its military capabilities and troop mobilization efforts. President Vladimir Putins decree to increase troop strength underscores Russias unwavering commitment to the offensive. Advertisement In this protracted war of attrition, survival becomes the ultimate determinant of victory. With Russias steadfast resolve and Ukraines dwindling support, the scales tip in favour of Moscow. As Western unity wanes and financial aid remains mired in bureaucracy, the spectre of a prolonged conflict looms large over Ukraine. In the unfolding drama of the Ukraine War, the stakes are high, and the outcome is uncertain. As the world watches on, the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the resolve of the Russian bear continue to shape the contours of this enduring conflict. Advertisement 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 . Mamata Banerjee will have to summon her best political instincts to salvage the situation In a conversation a few years ago, one of the prominent English-speaking faces of TMC had narrated an anecdote about his leader Mamata Banerjees political acumen. He said Didi had asked him to make a PowerPoint presentation on how to win the 2011 Bengal election by beating the Left Front. In his presentation, he proposed building a parallel grassroots organisation. Advertisement Banerjee sat patiently through it. At the end, she shook her head and told him: That is exactly their strength. We cant beat them at their game. We need events which will make their own organisation in towns and villages collapse out of anxiety, fear. Protests against land acquisition in Singur and Nandigram proved to be those events. The Lefts heavy-handedness and arrogance instilled fear across Bengal that their land holdings would be snatched away. CPMs use of brute force made it believable. Atrocities by TMC goons in Sandeshkhali could become for Mamata Banerjee what Singur and Nandigram were for the Left Front government. Bengal has already established itself as the Mecca of misrule (the phrase may please Didi since it backhandedly fits into her lexicon of minority appeasement). Brutal pre- and post-poll violence are in the courts, wanton corruption has blazed across TV screens of every household, anger of the jobless has spilled onto the streets, and the states debt has touched Rs 6 lakh crore. Advertisement Along comes Sandeshkhali. Suffering indignity and violence in silence for decades, the dam of citizens patience has been breached. Woman after woman has from the wetlands of North 24 Parganas are coming out to narrate how TMC goon and once member of the CPMs Harmad militia Sheikh Shahjahan and his men would handpick women and take them away from their husbands, keep them for nights and return them when they were satisfied. Shahjahan is absconding after his men thrashed an ED team which had gone to question him in the ration distribution scam. Advertisement Forced dispossession and sexual exploitation have reached a point where the locals do not care to even risk their lives. They have been protesting against Shahjahans barbaric presence. The West Bengal police have been arresting the protesters while Shahjahan roams free. Why could this be the inflection point for the Mamata Banerjee government? Advertisement Because of the same creeping, growing, universalising fear of ceding both property and dignity, losing land and wife and sisters and daughters to jihadis; something that Bengal knows very well from the memories of a bloody Partition. The heat of this fear will begin to melt the rural unitary structures of the TMCs support base. Eight or nine people including the Panchayat members, banker, teacher and others form the power structure of a village. If Hindus start fearing complete dispossession and humiliation like the kind meted out in Sandeshkhali, they will turn. Even ordinary Muslims wont feel safe from the Shahjahans of Bengal. Advertisement Already, protests are erupting elsewhere in the state, against Sheikh Khalil in Howrah, for instance. Those could only grow. Mamata Banerjee will have to summon her best political instincts to salvage the situation. The fact that her nephew and scion Abhishek Banerjee is facing multiple corruption cases complicates matters for her. But a cornered Mamata is a dangerous animal. The BJP will do well to remember that. So far, the BJP has shown some spunk by organising local and state protests. But the intensity it can unleash, as well as using this opportunity to unite its otherwise fractious state unit, still seems missing. Advertisement It has the finest street fighter to learn from if only it cares to look at the formidable credentials of its opponent-in-chief, Mamata Banerjee. The author is contributing editor, Firstpost. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . New Delhi hosted a very interesting guest this week, Canadian politician Scott Moe, who happens to be the Premier of Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan is a Canadian province that borders the United States to the South and is also one of the worlds largest producers of uranium. He has been ruling as the head of its provincial government since 2018. Moe was not only received warmly in India but was even granted an audience with Indias Minister for External Affairs, S Jaishankar. The two met on Tuesday and discussed ways to foster closer collaboration between India and Saskatchewan province. Advertisement However, this wasnt the first time that Moe has visited India. In March last year as well, he had visited the country as part of a Canadian delegation and met Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar. This time he is leading a delegation from his province to elevate trade and investment ties with India with Saskatchewan contributing more than a third of Canadian exports to India, key among which are lentils and potash. Interestingly while India laid out a red carpet to welcome Premier Moe and extended him the privilege of a meeting with EAM Jaishankar, the overall India-Canada ties continue to be frosty. Even the much-awaited free trade agreement with Canada continues to be in a state of limbo due to that countrys overt support to Khalistan cause. In September 2023, India had announced that trade talks have been put on hold due to political reasons when the Justin Trudeau government not only failed to take any action against Khalistan referendum held in British Columbia, Canada, but also defended it as an issue of freedom of expression and freedom of protest. Later Prime Minister Trudeau launched an attack on India accusing the country of hatching a conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Since then, Indias overall relations with Canada have continued to suffer due to their prime ministers appeasement of the Khalistan lobby. Advertisement Interestingly, Premier Moe, who belongs to the Saskatchewan Party, is a vocal critic of Trudeaus policies. He has often raised his voice against Trudeau for jeopardising ties with India as well as hurting Canadas economic interests for his narrow domestic political gains. His trade minister Jeremy Harrison also wrote a letter holding Trudeau responsible for strained relations with India, complicating an already sensitive diplomatic relationship after his disastrous 2018 India trip. Notably, India didnt grant Trudeau a chance to meet Prime Minister Modi until the very end of his eight-day tour and most part of his tour was focused on behaving like an awkward tourist. He had also offended the Indian state by having Jaspal Atwal, a Khalistani terrorist, invited to a dinner hosted in his honour. Advertisement In comparison, Moes visit to India has come across as more sincere, more graceful and of course much more business-like and reassuring of mutual interests. His discussions with the highest level of the Indian leadership shows how deeply India is interested in pursuing subnational diplomacy with Canada by forging relations with its various constituencies. Advertisement A similar situation had played out in January this year when India hosted Texas governor Greg Abbott at its 75th Republic Day celebrations. Texas is an important border state in the United States of America that sits critically at the nexus of US and Latin America, as also noted by Abbott. In the last decade, Indian companies have invested more than $1.4 billion in Texas, making India a leading job-creator in the state. Texas also accounts for more than 28 per cent of the total US exports to India. Besides the economic logic for Abbott to visit India, it also had a very clear political rationale as well. Advertisement Reportedly, the Biden administration had given a cold shoulder to India over a possible Republic Day visit by the President. India had also proposed a Quad summit to coincide with it, but it got postponed due to scheduling issues between member countries. However, whats also important to note is that India-US relations were mired by tensions at that time due to the indictment of an Indian national in New York in an alleged assassination plot of Khalistan terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an American citizen. Advertisement At a time when the US establishment was showing little regard for Indian security concerns over Khalistan terror, it was interesting to see New Delhi host Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a politician who himself was at loggerheads with the Biden administration. Abbott has earned national spotlight in the US due to his stand on the migrant crisis on the border bringing him in a direct confrontation with President Biden. In 2023, Texas had moved to install razor wire along the countrys southern border, which according to the Biden administration, it was not authorised to do. As the only Republican governor in a southern border state, Abbotts strong stand on migrant influx and border security has earned him many accolades. Advertisement Whats very interesting from an Indian perspective is the fact that Abbott was enjoying hospitality from New Delhi at a time when the Biden administration had rebuffed the Indian proposal for a Republic Day visit and a Quad summit. It doesnt need to be underlined that Indias pursuit of subnational diplomacy has taken a very concrete shape in recent times as evident in the hosting of Moe and Abbott and their meetings with Jaishankar. Advertisement In the field of international relations, countries often pursue diplomacy at the state level as the state is the only rightful actor to conduct relations with fellow sovereign states. However, in recent times, a whole new type of diplomacy has come into practice where even the subnational or the provincial local units are pursuing their interests at the international level by engaging with other sovereign nation-states. Moes Saskatchewan and Abbotts Texas fall in the same category. The Trudeau and Biden administration may have their grievances with Saskatchewan and Texas respectively for bypassing the sovereign state in following their own diplomatic relationships with other countries, but the reality is that they themselves have been following the model of subnational diplomacy as a part of their playbook since long. Advertisement In 2022, for the first time, the Biden administration appointed Nina Hachigian as its special representative for subnational diplomacy. It has also set up a dedicated unit for subnational diplomacy whose job is to engage with local partners and foster a relationship with them to achieve foreign policy goals of the United States. This unit has been empowered to bypass national governments in order to enlist support from local as well as non-state actors in the areas of climate change, healthcare, trade promotion among others. It goes without saying that one of the important goals is also human rights promotion which is nothing but a euphemism for the enlightened West interfering in internal matters of countries such as India. Advertisement While the US may have finally institutionalised its subnational diplomacy in order to fulfil a long-standing demand from various lobbies, Canada is also not far behind. Trudeau has time and again appeared as the leading champion of Khalistan cause by terming it as a Freedom of Speech and Right to protest issue. He has been even willing to engage with different actors associated with the cause. He had also shown little regards for Indian sovereignty while commenting on the farmers protests in 2020. In fact, Western governments, including Canada, have always stood behind local forces in India that try to undermine the power of the Indian State. Advertisement International relations work on the principle of reciprocity. If one country believes that engaging local actors or enlisting their support in the pursuit of foreign policy goals is a fair game, then naturally others countries will also follow suit. It is in this regard that Indias willingness to engage with a Scott Moe or Greg Abbott must be seen. If Trudeau can show sympathy for Khalistani elements, then why cant India feel remorse for Saskatchewans loss due to delay in the conclusion of India-Canada trade deal? Similarly, if the Biden administration believes that a Khalistani terrorist Pannuns security is more important than overall India-US relationship, then India also has the right to host Greg Abbott, whose border security stance is a direct challenge to US federal government policy. Western powers have for too long carried out subnational operations in the name of democratisation and human rights promotion. They have enabled many anti-India lobbies to subvert the Indian state in the name of multiple freedoms. The missionary zeal in courting even the non-state actors is unmissable for us in India. We witnessed it during the Kashmir insurgency and now see the same on the Khalistan matter as well. It was high time that the Indian state also returned the favour. The meetings between Western provincial chiefs and Indian ministers are a good start. Maybe India should logically follow this by setting up a dedicated unit of subnational diplomacy in the Ministry of External Affairs as well. We must also promote our prosperity and influence by courting non-state actors in Western countries. The much enlightened West has shown us the path, we must definitely walk on it with a strength of total conviction. The author is a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She writes on Indias foreign policy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. 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 allegations of nepotism to personal enrichment scandals, his presidency has been marred by one controversy after another In recent news from Africa, particularly Nigeria, the spotlight once again falls on Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who finds himself embroiled in allegations of nepotism and controversy. The latest uproar stems from Tinubus recent shake-up within Nigerias Federal Housing Authority, raising questions about his choices and their qualifications. Allegations of nepotism Tinubu appointed Oye-Tunde Ojo, a former Nigerian MP with a stint in the oil and gas sector, as the new MD/CEO of the Federal Housing Authority. Despite Ojos reported experience in housing and hospitality industries, doubts linger about the timing of his supposed decade-long expertise in housing, especially given his recent ventures. Moreover, Ojos marital ties to Fola-Sha-De Tinubu, the presidents daughter, only serve to fuel allegations of nepotism, tarnishing the optics of Tinubus administration. Advertisement This isnt Tinubus first brush with controversy since assuming office. Previously, his administration was embroiled in a dispute over an offshore oil block called OPL 245, involving European oil giants Eni and Shell. Despite corruption allegations and legal battles, Tinubu unexpectedly resolved the matter, prompting speculation about possible ulterior motives, particularly given Enis recent dealings in Nigeria. Enis sale of its Nigerian onshore assets to local firm Oando PLC, headed by Adewale Tinubu, Bola Tinubus nephew, adds another layer to the controversy. The apparent coincidence of a European oil company benefiting the presidents family raises eyebrows, especially when juxtaposed with Nigeria dropping litigation against Eni shortly after the deal. Such incidents only add weight to accusations of nepotism and corruption swirling around Tinubus presidency. Advertisement Flourishing corruption Furthermore, Tinubu has faced allegations of using his office for personal gain, epitomised by the scandal surrounding a proposed presidential yacht worth billions of Naira. In a country grappling with wealth inequality and economic challenges, the revelation sparked outrage among Nigerians and opposition lawmakers. The subsequent diversion of funds earmarked for the yacht to a student loan fund did little to quell public anger, especially after the luxury boat had already been delivered. Advertisement These controversies represent just the tip of the iceberg in Tinubus tumultuous tenure. From allegations of nepotism to personal enrichment scandals, his presidency has been marred by one controversy after another. As Nigeria navigates these turbulent waters, the hope remains that the nation will continue to progress despite the extravagance of its president and the enrichment of his family. However, unless addressed decisively, such controversies threaten to undermine public trust and confidence in Nigerias leadership. Advertisement 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 . Despite efforts to maintain stability, the situation along the LAC remains sensitive, as evidenced by the recent deployment of significant military assets by both India and China (File) Border Personnel Meeting between Indian Army and Peoples Liberation Army conducted by the Peoples Liberation Army at the Chinese Side in Bum La, Arunachal Pradesh, on 30 October, 2019. PTI In a significant strategic manoeuvre, India has shifted its attention from the traditional focus on its northwestern border with Pakistan to the eastern front, particularly concerning its border with China. This shift marks a pivotal change in Indias defence posture, reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region. For decades, the primary concern for India had been its border disputes and security challenges with Pakistan in the northwestern region. However, recent developments have compelled Indian military planners to reassess their priorities, directing their focus towards the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Advertisement Enhancing combat elements Recent reports indicate that the Indian Army is undergoing a major restructuring effort, converting an area headquarters into a corps headquarters. This transformation signifies a substantial upgrade in Indias military capabilities, indicating a heightened readiness to address security concerns along the LAC. The area headquarters in Bareilly, known as Headquarters Uttar Bharat, previously focused on peacetime activities such as administration and training. However, in response to escalating tensions with China, the Indian Army bolstered this headquarters by adding three brigades and an infantry division. This reinforcement demonstrates Indias commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities in the region. 18 Corps in the offing The next step in this transformation involves elevating the Bareilly headquarters into a fully functional corps. A corps possesses considerable autonomy and resources, including artillery, army engineers and aviation assets, enabling it to conduct independent military operations effectively. The proposed 18 Corps is anticipated to comprise three divisions, potentially totalling up to 45,000 soldiers, further strengthening Indias defensive posture along the LAC. Advertisement This strategic realignment underscores Indias proactive approach to addressing security challenges posed by China along the disputed border. The Galwan Valley clashes served as a wake-up call, prompting India to reevaluate its military preparedness and deployment along the LAC. By establishing additional corps headquarters dedicated to the eastern front, India aims to ensure greater vigilance and readiness to respond to any potential threats or provocations from China. Advertisement Unease at LAC Despite efforts to maintain stability, the situation along the LAC remains sensitive, as evidenced by the recent deployment of significant military assets by both India and China. Both countries have fortified their positions and infrastructure near the border, indicating a readiness for potential escalation. Despite diplomatic engagements and talks, disagreements persist, impeding progress towards de-escalation and resolution of border disputes. Advertisement Political leadership on both sides has emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts. However, recent actions, such as Chinas reported relocation of nationals near Arunachal Pradesh, raise concerns about its intentions and commitment to maintaining stability in the region. India remains cautious and vigilant, recognising the strategic significance of the LAC in its broader geopolitical context. As India emerges as a prominent economic power, it faces increasing pressure and scrutiny from its neighbours, particularly China. The LAC serves as a contentious point where geopolitical rivalries and economic interests converge, posing challenges to regional stability and security. Advertisement Indias border pivot towards the eastern front reflects a proactive response to evolving security dynamics in the region. By bolstering its military presence and capabilities along the LAC, India seeks to safeguard its territorial integrity and national interests while promoting peace and stability in the region. However, the persistent tensions and uncertainties highlight the complex nature of India-China relations and the ongoing challenges in managing border disputes effectively. Advertisement 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 . As tensions continue to simmer, it is crucial for both sides to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to avoid a potentially disastrous conflict In this handout photograph provided by Taiwan Coast Guard Administration, Taiwanese coast guards inspect a vessel that capsized during a chase off the coast of Kinmen archipelago in Taiwan, on 14 February, 2024. AP In recent days, the relationship between China and Taiwan has taken a worrisome turn, with tensions escalating to concerning levels. Chinas aggressive posturing, particularly through its coast guard, has sparked fears of a potential clash that could endanger both military personnel and civilians. On Sunday, Chinas coast guard issued a statement directed at Taiwan, signalling a shift in strategy towards more assertive patrolling in the waters surrounding Taiwan. This escalation is deeply troubling as it brings Chinese troops closer to Taiwans forces than ever before, significantly increasing the risk of a confrontation. Advertisement King Shia faces Chinese aggression The situation escalated further when a Taiwanese tourist vessel, the King Shia, was harassed by Chinese patrol vessels near Kinmen, an archipelago belonging to Taiwan but located just 10 kilometres from the Chinese mainland. Despite operating in Taiwanese waters, the King Shia was intercepted by Chinese coast guard officers who boarded the ship, harassing passengers and crew for their documents without justification. This provocative behaviour by China is aimed at intimidating Taiwan and its people, as acknowledged by Taiwanese officials. Kuan Bi-Ling, head of Taiwans Ocean Affairs Council, expressed concern over Chinas actions, emphasizing the negative impact on the people of Taiwan and the lack of regard for their well-being. When Chinese boats cross into our waters, we know that these boats are not illegal at all and they just entered by accident, we would just broadcast (warnings) and hope they leave immediately. So we think (China) boarding and inspecting our boat yesterday (19 February) has harmed our peoples feelings and triggered peoples panic. It was also not in line with the interest of the people across the Strait, said Kuan. Advertisement Rather than easing tensions, China has doubled down on its provocations, dispatching another vessel towards Kinmen, which was promptly intercepted by Taiwans coast guard. This pattern of aggression has forced Taiwan to bolster its defences, including increased patrols and enhanced surveillance around the Kinmen Islands. The recent flare-up can be traced back to an incident where two Chinese fishermen drowned near Kinmen after their vessel, lacking proper identification, entered Taiwanese waters and engaged in a high-speed chase with Taiwans coast guard. China blamed Taiwans leadership, particularly the Democratic Progressive Party, for the deaths, viewing the partys pro-democracy stance and opposition to reunification as a threat to its interests. Advertisement What China says Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yis remarks underscore Chinas uncompromising stance on reunification, framing it as essential for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. However, such rhetoric disregards Taiwans sovereignty and democratic aspirations, insisting on submission to Beijings authority. So who is against cross-strait reunification and wants to pursue independence? It is not us, but the governing Party on the island, which is called the Democratic Progressive Party. Therefore, to uphold the One-China policy, we should support Chinas peaceful reunification. If we want to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, we must resolutely oppose Taiwan independence, because Taiwan independence and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible, said Wang. Advertisement As tensions continue to simmer, it is crucial for both sides to exercise restraint and seek diplomatic solutions to avoid a potentially disastrous conflict. Chinas insistence on its terms for peace and stability only exacerbates the situation, highlighting the need for international attention and mediation to prevent further escalation. The people of Taiwan remain resolute in their commitment to democracy and self-determination, unwilling to surrender to Chinas demands. Advertisement 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 . Israel's economy is under stress because of its ongoing war with Hamas. AP Recent economic data from Israel paints a grim picture, with the countrys GDP falling by around 5 per cent in the last quarter of the year. This significant decline, which is much worse than anticipated, is largely attributed to the ongoing conflict with Hamas, the militant group in control of the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Before the conflict escalated, Israels economy had been showing signs of recovery. In 2022, the economy grew by 6.5 per cent, marking a rebound from the pandemic-induced slowdown. However, the outlook for 2023 was less optimistic, with a projected growth rate of 3.5 per cent. A war-hit economy The situation took a downturn following Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October, which prompted a military response from the Israeli government. As a result of the ensuing conflict, key economic indicators plummeted. Private spending dropped by over 26 per cent, exports decreased by 18 per cent, and capital investments fell by nearly 68 per cent. Two sectors that were particularly hard hit by the fighting were construction and technology, which together account for a significant portion of Israels GDP. The construction industry, representing 14 per cent of the economy, struggled due to manpower shortages, while the tech industry, contributing 18 per cent to GDP, also faced challenges with workforce retention. Advertisement Israels decision to call up around 300,000 reserve soldiers further exacerbated the labour shortage, with the tech industry losing 15 per cent of its workforce. Additionally, many construction projects had to be halted due to the conflict. Furthermore, the economic strain caused by the conflict extended beyond direct combat operations. Israel incurred substantial expenses related to relocating citizens living near Gaza and Lebanon, providing housing subsidies and offering financial support to affected families. Advertisement Rising military expenditure Direct military spending also escalated significantly, with the total bill estimated to reach $70 billion by the end of 2025. In contrast, despite facing a stronger adversary and numerous sanctions, Russias economy managed to grow by 5.5 per cent in the last quarter, highlighting its resilience and strategic advantages, including a robust energy sector and a larger population. Advertisement Despite the challenges, there is optimism for Israels economic recovery. Ground operations are expected to wind down later in the year, allowing reservists to return to their jobs. Additionally, there has been no significant corporate exodus from Israel, with some companies even announcing plans for further investment in the country, such as Intels recent announcement of a $25 billion project for a new factory. Advertisement However, the ongoing conflict underscores the precariousness of Israels economic situation and the importance of finding long-term solutions to regional tensions. As the country navigates these challenges, there is a growing realisation that the cost of war far outweighs any perceived benefits, urging policymakers to prioritise peace and stability for the prosperity of all stakeholders involved. Advertisement Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . The Chinese semiconductor industry is getting major push from the government and the CCP. In 2022, the Chinese government allocated over 12.1 billion yuan in subsidies to 190 domestic companies, with SMIC alone getting receiving 1.95 billion yuan In Beijings concerted efforts to counteract US sanctions on advanced chips, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC) and Huawei Technologies have emerged as the top beneficiaries of local government funding in China, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Shanghai, a hub for semiconductor innovation, sees 16 out of 191 major subsidized projects linked to the semiconductor industry, according to city authorities data. Notably, SMIC, Chinas leading chip maker, features two 300mm production lines currently under construction, while Huaweis research centre in Shanghais Qingpu district is among the 16 projects receiving support. Advertisement Focused on semiconductor research and development, wireless networks, and the Internet of Things, Huaweis facility in Qingpu plans to employ 35,000 researchers upon its anticipated opening in June 2024. Additionally, Shanghais funding extends to projects like a production facility by Chinas etching equipment firm, Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment. Despite being blacklisted by Washington for national security reasons, Huawei and SMIC have forged ahead with domestic chip production. Last year, Huawei unveiled a 7-nanometer smartphone chip manufactured by SMIC, leveraging older-generation lithography systems from Dutch firm ASML. Meanwhile, the provincial government of Anhui has pledged increased support for technological breakthroughs in dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) this year, a domain where China is striving to catch up with global leaders such as Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Micron Technology. Hefei, the capital of Anhui province, hosts leading DRAM maker ChangXin Memory Technologies, which achieved a milestone by producing Chinas first lower power double data rate 5 (LPDDR5) DRAM chip. Advertisement Chinas semiconductor industry has received substantial government backing, particularly following US sanctions targeting the sector due to concerns over potential military applications. In 2022 alone, the Chinese government allocated over 12.1 billion yuan (US$1.75 billion) in subsidies to 190 domestically listed semiconductor companies, with SMIC emerging as the largest subsidy recipient, receiving 1.95 billion yuan. Advertisement Additionally, Huawei, which recently reclaimed the top spot in Chinas smartphone market, reportedly received an estimated US$30 billion in government funding to bolster domestic chip-making infrastructure, according to sources cited in a Bloomberg report. (With inputs from agencies) Norwegian MP Marius Nilsen has proposed nominating SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for protecting free speech by acquiring Twitter. Nilsen also lauded Musks for providing satellite communications, through SpaceXs Starlink, to Ukraine amid tensions with Russia Norwegian MP Marius Nilsen has proposed nominating SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for protecting free speech by acquiring Twitter. Nilsen also lauded Musk's for providing satellite communications, through SpaceX's Starlink, to Ukraine amid tensions with Russia Marius Nilsen, a member of parliament from Norway, has put forth a proposal to award the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize to Elon Musk, as reported by Politico. Nilsen contends that Musks recent endeavours, particularly his acquisition of Twitter and provision of satellite communications to the Ukrainian military, underscore his commitment to fostering free speech and global connectivity. Advertisement Nilsen, representing the Progress Party, emphasized Musks advocacy for open dialogue and expression of diverse viewpoints in an increasingly polarized world. He highlighted Musks acquisition of Twitter, now rebranded as X, and his subsequent actions to combat censorship and promote free speech. Notably, Musk reinstated numerous previously silenced accounts, including that of former US President Donald Trump, whom Twitter had censored during his tenure. Echo chambers and yes-people do not bring forth the best ideas and cooperation, but decline and regression. Complementary views, opinions and processes of thoughts unlocks the best ideas, Nilsen said. Furthermore, Nilsen lauded Musks role in providing satellite communications, through SpaceXs Starlink system, to Ukraine amid tensions with Russia. He argued that these actions have contributed to global connectivity and enhanced safety, aligning with the Nobel Peace Prizes objective of promoting peace and cooperation. Advertisement The multitude of tech companies Musk has founded, owns or runs, aimed at bettering societies, increasing knowledge of both earth and space, in addition to enabling communication and connectivity globally has helped make the world a more connected and safer place, Nilsen argued in his nomination. The proposal comes amidst a competitive field for this years Nobel Peace Prize, with notable contenders including Julian Assange, Pope Francis, and various world leaders and NGOs. Last years recipient was Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi, recognized for her advocacy for womens rights and human freedom in Iran. Advertisement The announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate is scheduled for October, with Elon Musk emerging as a surprising nominee in a diverse pool of candidates. (With input from agencies) Tuesday was the chosen day for the demonstration in honor of the February 20, 1991, event in which pro-democracy protestors destroyed the statue of Enver Hoxha, the longstanding communist dictator of Albania Rama is accused of nepotism and corruption by the main opposition Democratic Party, which claims that these practices are driving many young people to emigrate in search of a better life in western Europe Image Courtesy Reuters After their leader was placed under house arrest, protesters from the opposition threw petrol bombs and rocks at the government building in Tirana, Albania, late on Tuesday night, accusing officials of being involved in organized crime and corruption. According to media reports, riot police were called in to cordon off Prime Minister Edi Ramas office, but there were no immediate reports of injuries, serious damage, or arrests. Advertisement Rama is accused of nepotism and corruption by the main opposition Democratic Party, which claims that these practices are driving many young people to emigrate in search of a better life in western Europe. Tuesday was the chosen day for the demonstration in honor of the February 20, 1991, event in which pro-democracy protestors destroyed the statue of Enver Hoxha, the longstanding communist dictator of Albania. Opposition leader Sali Berisha spoke to the demonstrators via video link while under house arrest. He is under investigation for alleged corruption from 2005 to 2013, while he served as prime minister. Berisha has denied any misconduct and charged Rama with having a political grudge intended to intimidate rivals. Rama disputes this. Advertisement It is yet up to the prosecutors to decide whether to press formal charges or to drop them against Berisha. From his downtown Tirana apartment balcony, Berisha has been addressing his fans on a regular basis. Cameron had vowed action on the matter on Saturday, while London summoned the Russian ambassador to make clear it held Russian authorities fully responsible for Navalnys death. This grab taken from video shows flowers and a portrait of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny that Lyudmila Navalnaya, mother of Navalny, put to pay tribute to her son at the at the memorial to victims of political repression, in Salekhard, Russia, on Tuesday.- AP The UK imposed sanctions on Wednesday targeting six individuals responsible for overseeing the Arctic penal colony where Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died last week. The announcement comes amid widespread condemnation from Western leaders following reports from Russian authorities that Navalny, a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin, had become unconscious and subsequently died in prison on Friday. Advertisement In a statement issued by British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that President Vladimir Putins most prominent domestic critic had fallen unconscious and died in prison on Friday. Those sanctioned, including the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, will be banned from the UK and have their assets frozen. Its clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system, he said. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion - we will hold them accountable. Cameron had vowed action on the matter on Saturday, while London summoned the Russian ambassador to make clear it held Russian authorities fully responsible for Navalnys death. Advertisement Russia, which has denied involvement in the death of the 47-year-old former lawyer, said on Saturday that it was unacceptable for Britain to interfere in its internal affairs. The European Union also moved closer this week to imposing new sanctions against Moscow over its war on Ukraine, as Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya said Putin must be held accountable. Advertisement Germany, Lithuania and Sweden were among EU countries calling for specific new penalties against Russia over Navalnys death. The United States, too, will announce a major package of sanctions against Russia on Friday over Navalnys death and the two-year Ukraine war, President Joe Biden said on Tuesday. Britain has imposed sanctions on more than 1,700 people and entities under its Russia sanctions regime since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the government said. Advertisement EU members approved a 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia on Wednesday, banning nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children. Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putins most prominent domestic foe, died on Friday at the Arctic prison where he was serving a three-decade prison term. What do we know, and not know, about death? Advertisement DEATH Navalny was incarcerated at the IK-3 penal colony north of the Arctic Circle located in Kharp in the Yamal-Nenets region about 1,900 km (1200 miles) northeast of Moscow. His death was announced by the Federal Penitentiary Service of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District at 2:19 pm Moscow time (1119 GMT) on Feb. 16. Advertisement With inputs from Reuters. The pilot reportedly noticed sparks coming from the airplanes windshield while it was rising to its highest point and immediately notified the air traffic controller After successfully putting out the fire, the flight crew guided the aircraft back to the airport and made a safe runway landing Image Courtesy AP Passengers on board an Endeavor Air flight headed for New York City suffered a scare as a fire broke out in the cockpit shortly after departure from the Toronto Pearson International Airport. According to a report by The New York Post, the 74-passenger regional plane operated by Endeavor Air was compelled to make an emergency landing after returning to Toronto. Advertisement The incident took place as the aircraft was increasing its altitude for cruising at around 6:52 a.m. local time. The pilot reportedly noticed sparks coming from the airplanes windshield while it was rising to its highest point and immediately notified the air traffic controller. This is Endeavor 4826, declaring an emergency. I just had a fire, a spark-up, an electrical fire, up in the cockpit. It looks like its out currently, the pilot then says more calmly. Requesting a return to Toronto immediately. In response to the pilots request, the air traffic controller instructed him to reverse course and start descending in the Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft. The pilots reacted quickly, donning breathing masks and asking to be flown back to Toronto right away. When the jet landed, emergency cars were called in and ready to welcome it. After successfully putting out the fire, the flight crew guided the aircraft back to the airport and made a safe runway landing. Advertisement Thankfully, there were no reported injuries on board. Before beginning any more flights, the aircraft underwent a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the source of the fire and confirm its airworthiness. (With agency inputs) At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter, the statement said Two teenagers have been detained by Canadian police in connection with a shooting incident that occurred outside the residence of a close aide of the late Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The separatist groups had previously attributed the incident to Indian agencies. On Tuesday, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police announced that two teenagers had been taken into custody in relation to the shooting incident that occurred on February 1st outside the South Surrey home of Nijjars close aide, Simranjit Singh Jammu. Advertisement The RCMP was clear in their statement that they had not found any evidence of foreign meddling in this case. At the time of this incident, there was speculation circulating that this was connected to foreign interference. Investigators have not established any links to foreign interference in relation to this matter, the statement said. It said that on February 6, the Surrey RCMP Serious Crime Unit executed a search warrant on a residence and seized three firearms and multiple electronic devices during the search. On February 12, two 16-year-old youths were arrested and the British Columbia Prosecution Service approved charges of discharging a firearm into a place and possessing a loaded prohibited firearm. Advertisement The youths are currently being held in custody awaiting their next court appearance, the RCMP said. A spokesperson for the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council, Moninder Singh, said at the time that the home belonged to Simranjeet Singh, who was a friend of Nijjar whose killing in Surrey in June last led to a diplomatic row between India and Canada. Advertisement According to sources, the case turned out to be that of a family feud. Khalistani leaders tried to mislead the Canadian security agencies to throw the investigation off the track. But the truth came to the fore when Surrey RCMP cracked the case by the arrest of 2 teenagers for the crime, sources said. Advertisement Unconfirmed reports state that one of the teens was Singhs son from his first wife, who allegedly wanted revenge from Singh for mistreating his mother, a source said. The Sikh community is demanding an apology from BC Gurdwara Council spokesperson Moninder for lying and misleading the community and investigative agencies, they said. Advertisement The ties between India and Canada came under severe strain after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September alleged a potential involvement of Indian agents in Nijjars killing in Surrey in June. India, however, rejected the charges by Canada, deeming them as absurd and motivated and said the country has a strong commitment to the rule of law. Advertisement With inputs from PTI Vetoing the Algeria-proposed resolution, the US said it was not the right time to call for an immediate ceasefire while negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue A Palestinian boy pulls a cart carrying his brother and their belongings as they fled their home during Israeli air and artillery attacks. Source: Reuters China said the United States has given a green light to Israel to continue slaughter in Gaza after Washington vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the region. Strongly criticising the US move, Beijing said it would send the wrong message. The White House said the Algerian-proposed resolution would jeopardise talk to end the war between Israel and Hamas. Advertisement Meanwhile, the US has proposed its temporary ceasefire resolution and has warned Israel not to invade the city of Rafah. The draft resolution proposed by Washington calls for a temporary ceasefire as soon as practicable and on the condition that all hostages are released, as well as urging barriers to aid reaching Gaza to be lifted. Algeria-proposed resolution was backed by 13 of the 15 members UN Security Council. The UK abstained from voting. The US has been receiving widespread condemnation for its decision to block Algerias ceasefire resolution for Gaza. Totally Untenable Chinas UN ambassador Zhang Jun, reacting to the US veto of call for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, said the claim the motion would interfere with ongoing diplomatic negotiations was totally untenable. Advertisement Given the situation on the ground, the continued passive avoidance on an immediate ceasefire is nothing different from giving a green light to the continued slaughter, Zhang Jun said. The spill-over of the conflict is destabilising the entire Middle East region leading to rising risk of a wider war Only by extinguishing the flames of war in Gaza can we prevent the fires of hell from engulfing the entire region, he added. Advertisement Examine your conscience Senior UN diplomat of Algeria, Amar Bendjama, said: Unfortunately the Security Council failed once again. Examine your conscience, how will history judge you, Amar Bendjama added. What did the US say? The US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said it was not the right time to call for an immediate ceasefire while negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue. Advertisement Meanwhile, the UKs ambassador to the UN, Barbara Woodward, said the plan could actually make a ceasefire less likely by endangering talks. Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz earlier warned the ground assault would be launched unless Hamas frees all its hostages by 10 March. Israel launched its operations in Gaza after an attack by the Palestinian terrorist group, Hamas, on southern Israel on 7 October, in which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 240 others taken hostage. Advertisement According to the Palestinian territorys Hamas-run health ministry, the Israeli military campaign has left more than 29,000 people dead in Gaza. With inputs from agencies Deal EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russias aggression against Ukraine. This package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. It will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved for the 24 February, Belgian presidency wrote to X European Unions Belgian presidency said on Wednesday that the EU has approved its 13th package of sanctions against Russia in response to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Taking to X, the Belgian presidency said, Deal EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russias aggression against Ukraine. Advertisement This package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. It will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved for the 24 February, it added Deal EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. This package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. It will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved for the 24 February. Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU 2024 (@EU2024BE) February 21, 2024 According to a Financial Times (FT) report, the package includes restrictions against almost 200 people and companies from Russia, China, and other countries helping Moscows war effort. Advertisement The FT initially reported that Hungary had blocked the package due to the presence of Chinese companies on the list, but Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto later said that Budapest would not obstruct the approval. Meanwhile, the US is also likely to announce a major package of sanctions against Russia on Friday prompted by the death of political opposition leader Alexei Navalny but also devised as retaliation for the two-year war Vladimir Putin initiated against Ukraine. Advertisement Joe Biden told reporters on the south lawn of the White House on Tuesday, as he headed for a campaign fundraising trip to California, that he would provide more information about the package on Friday, which is the eve of the second anniversary of Russian president Vladimir Putin masterminding the invasion of neighbor Ukraine. Advertisement With inputs from agencies U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Lula in Brasilia on his way to the Rio meeting and expressed U.S. support for his G20 presidency agenda to combat hunger and poverty, mobilize against the climate crisis, and make global governance more effective. Foreign ministers from the G20 group of nations gathered in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday to discuss conflicts across the world and explore avenues for enhancing multilateral organisations ahead of their annual leaders summit presided by Brazil. Along with efforts to combat climate change and alleviate poverty, Brazilian President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva has placed reform of global governance at the forefront of the G20s agenda this year, Advertisement However, amidst ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the war in Gaza, diplomats are not optimistic regarding the prospects of advancing proposals for upgrading global governance within the worlds largest economies. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Lula in Brasilia on his way to the Rio meeting and expressed U.S. support for his G20 presidency agenda to combat hunger and poverty, mobilize against the climate crisis, and make global governance more effective, spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. The top U.S. diplomat discussed the conflict in Gaza with Lula, amid a diplomatic spat after the Brazilian leader likened Israels war in Gaza to the Nazi genocide during World War Two. Lula has criticized the United Nations for failing to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, and his accusations last week of atrocities by Israel in Gaza triggered a diplomatic crisis with an Israeli reprimand and Brazil recalling its ambassador. Advertisement We are living in a world with no governance and the proliferation of conflicts is unprecedented. There is a lack of governance to deal with global challenges, diplomat Mauricio Lyrio, Brazils G20 sherpa, told reporters on Tuesday. He said there is consensus today on the need to reform the United Nations, where Brazil has advocated the expansion of the Security Council, a proposal that has not gained momentum due to the resistance of nations with veto power since the world body was created after World War Two. Advertisement Lyrio acknowledged that divergences arise when it comes to which changes to make at the United Nations, he said. This meeting will essentially be a venting session to build the case for multilateral reform and diagnosing the problem, a European diplomat told Reuters. The two-day meeting was due to kick off at a Rio marina with an open discussion of the global situation and its conflicts, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Advertisement Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will face each other across the table for the first time since they spoke briefly face-to-face at last years foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi. No meeting is planned between the two men. As an innovation, Brazil will propose holding a second G20 foreign ministers meeting in September during the U.N. General Assembly in New York to advance talks on global governance, Lyrio said, with all U.N. member states invited to take part. Advertisement The G20 represents around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. With inputs from Reuters. Three draft resolutions on the Israel-Hamas conflict have been vetoed by the United States. The last two vetoes prevented text that called for an instant humanitarian cease-fire. However, Washington has now put out a draft resolution of its own that enshrines the term ceasefire Biden is not advocating for a long-term truce, according to US officials, which is a reflection of his gut feeling that Israel has the right to defend itself after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7 Image Courtesy Reuters For several months, US President Joe Biden longed for a pause in the hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. But his tone is changing to stress the necessity of a temporary ceasefire as Israel gets ready for a major offensive in Rafah. Although it may seem like a small rhetorical distinction, Biden is moving closer to supporters of a permanent ceasefire in a conflict that has claimed the lives of almost 30,000 Palestinians both globally and among his own Democratic Party members. Advertisement Three draft resolutions on the Israel-Hamas conflict have been vetoed by the United States. The last two vetoes prevented text that called for an instant humanitarian cease-fire. However, Washington has now put out a draft resolution of its own that enshrines the term ceasefire. Three draft resolutions on the Israel-Hamas conflict have been vetoed by the United States. The last two vetoes prevented text that called for an instant humanitarian cease-fire. However, Washington has now put out a draft resolution of its own that enshrines the term ceasefire. The draft opposes a significant ground offensive by its ally Israel in Rafah and asks for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas. According to US sources, Bidens linguistic shift is unrelated to his detractors. Rather, they claimed, it is a reflection of the fierce negotiations between Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement that would see a six- to eight-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages detained in Gaza and a quicker supply of humanitarian goods to civilian areas. Advertisement The White House believes that if hostilities can be halted for that extended of a period, then perhaps an even longer ceasefire will follow. However, attempts to bring the conflict to an end will be hampered by an Israeli onslaught in Rafah, the southern Gaza city where over a million Palestinians have sought safety. Advertisement Biden is not advocating for a long-term truce, according to US officials, which is a reflection of his gut feeling that Israel has the right to defend itself after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7. According to police estimates, at least 8,000 farmers with 130 tractors participated in the Syntagma Square protest, voicing concerns expressed at comparable protests in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy The farmers claimed that they traveled to Athens in order to exert pressure on the government, which has so far provided power bill discounts and extended the agricultural diesel tax rebate for a year, till the end of 2024 Image Courtesy Reuters In their largest-yet protest against growing expenses, thousands of Greek farmers gathered on Athens central square on Tuesday and parked tractors in front of parliament. According to police estimates, at least 8,000 farmers with 130 tractors participated in the Syntagma Square protest, voicing concerns expressed at comparable protests in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy. Advertisement The farmers announced that they intended to spend the night in the square. Greek farmers, who already face high energy prices and production costs, claim that climate change-related weather patterns have also harmed them. Unpredictable flooding, intense heat waves, and wildfires have made their jobs more dangerous. For weeks, they have been staging temporary road and border blockades while their unions have been negotiating extra financial aid and other relief measures with the conservative administration of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The farmers claimed that they traveled to Athens in order to exert pressure on the government, which has so far provided power bill discounts and extended the agricultural diesel tax rebate for a year, till the end of 2024. In addition, they want protection from international competition, tax-free diesel fuel, and increased compensation for natural disasters. Advertisement Earlier on Tuesday, farmers cheered each other on and waved Greek flags as the caravan went past the final toll booths, which were located around 30 kilometers outside of the capital. The administration reaffirmed on Monday that while it had no financial space for more concessions this year, it was open to talking about a longer-term tax rebate program in the future. Advertisement (With agency inputs) The increase of 30,500 people from 7.47 million in 2022 comes as the Chinese special administrative region is trying to bolster its economy and international appeal after three years of strict COVID rules People watch the fireworks show over the Victoria Harbour on the second day of the Lunar New Year of the Dragon, in Hong Kong, China February 11, 2024. REUTERS The population of Hong Kong rose by 0.4 per cent to 7.50 million in 2023 owing to a growing number of residents returning to the city as well as a boost in government residential schemes. This is the second time the population of Hong Kong has increased since the pandemic in 2020. Advertisement The increase of 30,500 people from 7.47 million in 2022 comes as the Chinese special administrative region is trying to bolster its economy and international appeal after three years of strict COVID rules. Anti-government protests in 2019 followed by the governments harsh national security law in 2020 were some of the reasons why Hong Kongs economy saw a downfall. The government said the population increase was the second year since normalcy resumed in the former British colony. Many Hong Kong residents who stayed abroad during the epidemic have returned to Hong Kong throughout 2023. In the second half of 2023, there was still considerable inflow of Hong Kong Permanent Residents. The government also attributed the successive admission of mainland and overseas persons through various schemes into Hong Kong to a steady growth in population. Advertisement There was a net inflow of 51,700 Hong Kong residents recorded during the period, it said, with 79 per cent holding a One-way permit a document issued by mainland China to allow them to reside in the city. The financial hub marks its second population after Chinas population plunged or a second consecutive year in 2023, due to a record low birth rate and a wave of COVID-19 deaths. Advertisement With inputs from Reuters A litre of petrol was costing 143.3 pound, up 3.2 in the three weeks to 18 February, while diesel was sold at 152 up 4 Attacks by Iran-backed Houthis in the Red Sea are a burning hole in the pockets of vehicle owners in the United Kingdom. Fuel prices in Britain rose unexpectedly in the first three weeks of February 2024 with a litre of petrol costing 143.3, up 3.2. Diesel became 4 dearer and was selling at 152. Advertisement RAC Limited, a British automotive services company headquartered in Walsall, said the rise in fuel price was worrying for motorists. Why petrol & diesel prices are rising in UK? One of the major reasons was said to be attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea, RAC said. Oil tankers are forced to avoid the Suez Canal and take a longer route, touring around South Africas Cape of Good Hope. The closure of refineries for maintenance was also seen as a reason for the rise in fuel prices in Britain. There was also a rise in demand for petrol and diesel in the UK as retailers were buying more fuel stocks ahead of the budget to protect against a possible fuel duty hike. Advertisement While were not expecting prices to shoot up dramatically, it appears that oil is trading up, which in the absence of a stronger pound means wholesale fuel costs more for retailers to buy in. The result is higher prices at the pump and more expense for the everyday driver, RAC fuel spokesperson, Simon Williams, said. Advertisement Rise after Respite There was a relief for petrol car drivers in the UK till February start. The price was easing over the last three months and had fallen from 157 to below 140 in mid-January. Also, it was the first time petrol prices fell below this figure since October 2021, when the energy crisis began to escalate. Fuel prices rose to record-high levels following Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Advertisement Meanwhile, the price of diesel had reduced by 15, from 163p in early October to below 148 in late January. It was cheaper most of last summer. Looking at the way, we are understanding each others culture, this is more than an additive relationship, this is not India plus the US, this is India times the USa multiplicative relationship, said Garcetti while addressing the US India Business Council event in New Delhi on Tuesday Hailing ties between the United States and India, United States Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti on Tuesday said that the relationship between the two countries is multiplicative and should serve as a model for the world. Addressing the US India Business Council event in New Delhi on Tuesday, Garcetti said, Looking at the way, we are understanding each others culture, this is more than an additive relationship, this is not India plus the US, this is India times the USa multiplicative relationship. Advertisement Garcetti also emphasised the need for the two countries to work more robustly on co-development and explained the difference between co-production and co-development. We should be clear with our terms. Co-production is not the same thing as co-development. We need to make sure, when we are looking at co-development, we are not doing for the sake of that. Something that India needs and its military, and something that America needs, and where do those circles intersect? And how quickly can we look at co-developmentand become the model for the world?, he added. He further drew references to ancient Indian texts and said that so much of what is taught today was discovered in India centuries ago. Our goal is not to wage war. In the Rig Veda, there is Indra, the most powerful god, the god of thunder and, in many ways, the god of war too. We knew the power and you can feel the power of that kind of primal creation of the earth that came out of conflict, Garcetti said. Advertisement The US envoy also elaborated upon the concept of war as described in Mahabharata and Arthshastra. There are two traditions in India. One thats in the Mahabharata of war being something kind of exciting, grim, but a sport, an even religious duty. We know that well. And when we were not as hopefully civilized as we are today, every culture embraced the necessity of war as places were conquered, as people suffered, histories that were never written, the Ambassador said. Advertisement But there is a second school of thought, the Arthshastra, which clearly states that war is a continuation of politics by other means, over 200 years before, we studied in our colleges, like so much discovery in India, was actually written here first, he added. With inputs from agencies India-Thailand relations are very close on civilizational connect It was Indians who gave the name Suvarnabhumi to Thailand At the political level, the relationship is on a high trajectory, said Indian Ambassador to Thailand Nagesh Singh Indian Ambassador to Thailand Nagesh Singh on Wednesday said that Indo-Thai relations are very close on civilizational connect and it was Indians who gave the name Suvarnabhumi to Thailand. Speaking to ANI news agency in Bangkok, Singh said, India-Thailand relations are very close on civilizational connect It was Indians who gave the name Suvarnabhumi to Thailand At the political level, the relationship is on a high trajectory. Advertisement #WATCH | Bangkok, Thailand: On Indo-Thailand relations, Indian Ambassador to Thailand Nagesh Singh says, "India-Thailand relations are very close on civilizational connect... It was Indians who gave the name Suvarnabhumi to Thailand... At the political level, the relationship is pic.twitter.com/IhrvdCLSCM ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Talking about the economic relationship with Thailand, Singh said the trade between the two countries reached almost USD 18 billion in 2022. Advertisement He further said, Our defence and security cooperation is very good Theres a large Indian diaspora in Thailand People want to learn Hindi. They like Indian cinema. He said the Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is very keen to visit India. Last year, PM Modi was supposed to come to the BIMSTEC summit, but a new government was formed in October, so Thailand postponed it. When the BIMSTEC summit takes place after our elections, there is an expectation that PM Modi will be here for the summit The deputy PM, FM of Thailand are visiting India for the India-Thailand Joint Commission on February 26, 27 to have discussions with EAM S Jaishankar, Singh added. Advertisement Talking about Indias decision to send four holy relics of Lord Buddha to Thailand for a month, he said, This is a landmark event for the Indo-Thai relations Thailand is referred to as a civilizational neighbour, given the connection we have of Buddhism, Hinduism, and language, which is derived from Pali and Sanskrit, Lord Buddha. More than 90% of the population in Thailand is Buddhist. These relics, especially of Lord Buddha, are the living embodiment of the Lord. Its a very big event, and it also coincides with the 72nd birth year of the king, Rama 10th. Advertisement Singh said the relics will arrive in Thailand on 22 February. On 23 February, they will be enshrined in these royal palace grounds called Sanam Luang by the PM of Thailand They will be in Bangkok till March 3. Then they will travel to the northern city called Chiang Mai, then to an eastern city called Ubon Ratchathani, and to the south, Krabi And from there theyll go back on 19 March to India In the northeast, we expect pilgrims from Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar to come down to pay their respects, he added. Advertisement In furtherance of its Look East policy, India is dispatching four sacred relics of Lord Buddha to Thailand for a month, commencing on February 22. This marks the second instance within two years of India reaching out to a nation boasting a significant Buddhist populace. In a similar act of special goodwill towards its spiritual neighbor Mongolia, India previously sent the revered Kapilvastu relics to Mongolia in December 2022. Advertisement The relics, believed to house remains of Gautam Buddha, were part of the exhibit showcased at the National Museum and were last publicly displayed in a multi-city exhibition in Sri Lanka back in 2012. Although the relics held the distinguished AA category status by the Archaeological Survey of India due to their rarity and delicate nature, and were traditionally not permitted to leave the country, an exception was made for Mongolia following a specific request from its government and in consideration of Indias enduring diplomatic relations with its Third neighbor in the East. Advertisement This time again, the Kapilvastu Piprahwa relics, currently housed at the National Museum, are being dispatched to Thailand upon the request of the Thai government. Additionally, in response to the governments appeal, relics of two disciples of Lord Buddha, preserved in Madhya Pradeshs Sanchi, will also be sent to Thailand for exhibition purposes. Advertisement With inputs from agencies The vote drew condemnation from the Palestinian Foreign Ministry, which accused Israel of holding the rights of the Palestinian people hostage by forceful occupation of territories where Palestinians seek to establish a state. Israeli lawmakers voted on Wednesday to back Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus rejection of any unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state as international calls have grown for the revival of Palestinian statehood negotiations. Israeli lawmakers voted on Wednesday to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus rejection of any unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Advertisement The move came amid the conflict in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, received symbolic backing from members of the opposition as well, with 99 out of 120 lawmakers voting in favour, according to the Knesset spokesperson. Israel maintains that any permanent agreement with the Palestinians must be achieved through direct negotiations between the parties, rather than through international mandates. The Knesset came together in an overwhelming majority against the attempt to impose on us the establishment of a Palestinian state, which would not only fail to bring peace but would endanger the state of Israel, said Netanyahu. The vote drew condemnation from the Palestinian Foreign Ministry, which accused Israel of holding the rights of the Palestinian people hostage by forceful occupation of territories where Palestinians seek to establish a state. Advertisement The ministry reaffirms that the State of Palestines full membership in the United Nations and its recognition by other nations does not require permission from Netanyahu, it said in a statement. Little progress has been made towards achieving a two-state solution - a Palestinian state in the occupied West Bank and in Gaza alongside Israel - since the signing of the interim Oslo Accords in the early 1990s. Advertisement Among the obstacles impeding Palestinian statehood are expanding Israeli settlements in territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war. Most countries regard the settlements, which in many areas cut Palestinian communities off from each other, as a violation of international law. The two-state solution has long been a core Western policy in the region. Since the outbreak in October of the Gaza war, the United States has been trying to promote steps toward the creation of a Palestinian state as part of a broader Middle East deal that would include Saudi Arabia and other Arab states officially normalising relations with Israel. Advertisement With inputs from Reuters. According to the militarys senior advocate, soldiers are using inappropriate statements encouraging unacceptable phenomena, unjustified use of force even against detainees and looting people including the use or removal of private property for non-operational purposes Israeli soldiers watch a military dog, as they operate in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. Reuters Israel Defence Forces (IDF) top lawyer Major General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi has warned commanders to monitor illegal acts carried out by some of their troops in Gaza as they wage a war against Hamas in the region. We have encountered unacceptable cases of conduct that deviate from IDF values and protocols, Yerushalmi said. Advertisement According to the militarys senior advocate, soldiers are using inappropriate statements encouraging unacceptable phenomena, unjustified use of force even against detainees and looting people including the use or removal of private property for non-operational purposes. Some incidents go beyond the disciplinary domain, and cross the criminal threshold, she warns. These acts and statements, on the part of individuals who do not represent the whole, are contrary to the IDF being a professional, moral, and dignified army, and they have no place in the IDF," the lawyer added. The advocate said that such acts are causing strategic damage in the international arena to the State of Israel and IDF. Meanwhile, some of the above-mentioned cases are currently under investigation following which the Military Advocate Generals office will decide if disciplinary or criminal measures should be taken against the troops. Israeli soldiers on TikTok Advertisement Since the start of the war in October, Israeli soldiers have been documenting their moments on the battlefield and posting them on the social media platform TikTok, often inviting criticism for being cold-blooded. A New York Times report talks about a particular post where a soldier can be seen branding a thumbs-up to the camera as he drives a bulldozer down the street in north Gazas Beit Lahia. Advertisement I stopped counting how many neighborhoods Ive erased, the soldier wrote in the caption. While some soldiers capture their lives on the battlefield eating, hanging out with colleagues and recording messages to their loved ones, others share posts of vandalising local shops, bulldozing civilian areas and passing derogatory comments on Palestinians. Advertisement Some soldiers have even violated the IDFs rule on the use of social media by military personnnel. The conduct of the force that emerges from the footage is deplorable and does not comply with the armys orders," the military said in a statement. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif, 72, is scheduled to take on the position of prime minister once more, according to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. Asif Zardari, the 68-year-old co-chairman of the PPP, is expected to become the president As the cash-strapped nation faced a hung Parliament following the February 8 elections, Bilawal believed that the news of the political alliance with the PML-N to form a coalition government would prompt a good response from the market Image Courtesy AFP Following days of rigorous negotiations, leading party leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party have finally agreed to create a new coalition government. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif, 72, is scheduled to take on the position of prime minister once more, according to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. Asif Zardari, the 68-year-old co-chairman of the PPP, is expected to become the president for a second time. Advertisement The PPP and PML-N have achieved the required number, and [now> we are in a position to form the government, Bilawal told reporters. He claimed that the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and candidates supported by former prime minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party were unable to secure a simple majority in Parliament to establish a central administration. As the cash-strapped nation faced a hung Parliament following the February 8 elections, Bilawal believed that the news of the political alliance with the PML-N to form a coalition government would prompt a good response from the market. Ninety-three National Assembly seats went to independent candidates, most of whom were supported by the 71-year-old Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. Advertisement Speaking at the event, Shehbaz Sharif praised the leaders of the two parties for the successful outcome of the negotiations and declared that his PML-N now has the required numbers with the PPP to be in a position to form the next government. According to The Express Tribune newspaper, the former prime minister emphasized the two parties unity and noted that they were in a strong position to establish the government at the center. Advertisement The PPP secured 54 seats, placing third, behind the PML-Ns 75 seats. Additionally, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has promised to provide them its 17 seats of support. A party needs to win 133 of the 265 contested seats in the lower house of Parliament, or the 266-member National Assembly, in order to form a government. Advertisement Meanwhile, 71-year-old Khans PTI attacked the recently formed PPP, PML-N alliance as PDM 2.0 in a post on X, writing, PDM 2.0 = #MandateThieves. The partnership was announced the day after the most recent round of negotiations between the two parties top leaders came to an impasse on Monday, with neither side being able to agree on a formula for power-sharing to establish a coalition government. Advertisement Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who led the country from 2022 to 2023, predicted that the incoming government will face numerous challenges and roadblocks on its path to power. According to media reports, he declared that the coalition partnership will address them collectively. Zardari, a co-chair of the PPP and a former president from 2008 to 2013, has stated that the nation and future generations are the reasons behind the political alliances battle to form the next administration. Advertisement There have been many credible claims of extensive election tampering to change the outcomes, making the general elections on February 8 controversial. Aleema Khan, Imran Khans sister, stated that the PTI leader referred to the February 8 elections as the mother of all rigging. On Tuesday, Aleema saw Imran Khan in Adiala Jail. After the elections, she told reporters, the peoples mandate was stolen. She added that Imran Khan, who alleged the internet service outage was a ploy to hide the real results, had harshly denounced it. The United States has informed its allies that Russia may deploy either a nuclear weapon or a mock warhead into space as soon as this year, according to a report, citing sources familiar with the situation. Russian President Vladimir Putin has, however, denied the Kremlin has any intention of putting such a weapon in space In this image made from video released by the Russian Presidential Press Service, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressees the nation in Moscow, Russia, on 24 February, 2022. AP File The United States has informed its allies that Russia may deploy either a nuclear weapon or a mock warhead into space as soon as this year, according to a report, citing sources familiar with the situation. According to a Bloomberg report, citing these sources, Russia is actively working on a space-based capability designed to disable satellites using nuclear weaponry. Such actions would constitute a breach of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, an agreement to which Russia is a signatory. Advertisement This revelation follows a recent warning from the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee regarding a serious, though unspecified, security risk emanating from Russia. President Joe Biden subsequently acknowledged that the Kremlin is developing anti-satellite technology that, while not directly endangering human lives, poses significant concerns. White House declined to provide comments on the matter, added the report. We have always been categorically against and are now against the deployment of nuclear weapons in space, Bloomberg report quoted Russian President Vladimir Putin as saying on Tuesday at a televised meeting with Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. We are doing in space only what other countries have, including the United States, he added. Advertisement The alleged ambition of the Kremlin highlights a growing competition among the United States, Russia, and China in developing attack capabilities in space, Bloomberg quoted security experts and officials in Washington as saying. This new space race contrasts with the Cold War era, during which the superpowers negotiated arms control agreements to prevent the militarisation of space. Advertisement While theres an assessment that Russia currently has no intention of detonating orbital weapons, there remains a risk of accidents. A potential nuclear explosion could impact a significant portion of satellites and disrupt communication systems on earth, added the report, citing sources familiar with the matter. The extent of damage would vary depending on the size of the warhead; it might not necessarily destroy satellites but could cause disruptions requiring corrective measures. Advertisement As of last April, there were approximately 7,800 operational satellites orbiting the earth, as reported by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. In response to Russias nuclear saber-rattling following its invasion of Ukraine two years ago, Putin suspended Russias adherence to the New START treaty in 2023, the last agreement limiting nuclear arsenals between the US and Russia. Advertisement Efforts are underway by the US and its allies to dissuade Russia from deploying such capabilities, particularly through engagement with China and India, which are perceived to have more influence in Moscow. The New York Times previously covered some of these outreach endeavors. Politico reported on Thursday that senior intelligence and administration officials had attempted to reach out to Moscow to convince it to stop the project for weeks before it became public. Advertisement According to the report, another factor that would determine potential fallout is the altitude at which any explosion occurred. Most commercial satellites are in low-earth orbit, less than 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) from the surface. Experts previously told Bloomberg that the damage from a nuclear weapon exploding in low-earth orbit could fry satellites for hundreds of miles and that the resulting radiation could cause cumulative harm to satellites passing through the affected region for months. The electronics on spacecraft would also risk failure as a result of the blast. Advertisement The issue could be discussed by Group of Seven foreign ministers when they meet in Italy in April, added the report, citing people familiar with the matter. With inputs from agencies Junior doctors resigning from duty have left emergency department in hospitals across South Korea crowded. Delay in surgeries have also been reported at several healthcare facilities Doctors walking out from hospitals in South Korea has left emergency rooms overcrowded and surgeries delayed. Wednesday saw almost 8,000 trainee doctors not reporting to work in protest against the governments plan to increase the number of seats at medical schools in the country. As per South Koreas Ministry of Health and Welfare, 7,813 trainee doctors left their work locations, a remarkable rise from 1,600 a day before when the agitation began. Advertisement Govts warning to protesting doctors South Koreas health ministry said it has not accepted resignation letters submitted by 8,816 trainee doctors. Also, 6,112 of the trainee doctors have been ordered to return to work. There are about 13,000 doctors across South Korea, who play key roles in providing emergency care and are similar to medical residents. The claim of the basic right of doctors to take collective action cannot take precedence over the right to life, which is an essential and fundamental right of citizens, a statement by the ministry stated. Agitating doctors asked to prioritise patients Park Min-soo, a vice health minister, called on the protesting junior doctors to prioritise their patients over collective action. Advertisement Id like to say once again that the basic calling of medical professionals is to protect the health and lives of the people, and any group action that threatens that cannot be justified, Park told reporters. Delay in surgeries As per a report by Bloomberg, one of the major hospital groups in South Korea, the Seoul National University Hospital said it was functioning normally with some delays in surgeries. Advertisement The Asan Medical Center said about 60 per cent to 70 per cent of its surgeries were proceeding as planned with staff absences affecting the remainder. Why doctors in South Korea are staging walkout? Ahead of the 10 April 2024, polls in South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeols government has announced its plan to increase the number of seats at medical schools by 2,000 from next year from the current 3,058. The decision has been taken to address the shortage of doctors as well as help reduce waiting time at hospitals Advertisement As per the government, there has been an acute staff shortage in paediatrics, emergency units and clinics outside the greater Seoul area. The doctors have been joining the protest since early this week in defiance of a government order. They have termed the order unconstitutional and said the decision of the government to increase spots at medical schools would not address fundamental problems such as difficult working conditions, a lack of specialists in fields seen as less well paid and a concentration of doctors in urban areas. Advertisement Political ploy The Korea Interns and Residents Association, a group of doctors taking part in the protest, said they deserved better treatment including more pay. The group also criticised the governments decision and called it a political ploy ahead of the April general election. In a statement, the association said: We couldnt just sit back and watch medical policies built only for the sake of winning the general election. Even in a collapsing training environment, not a single resident wanted to leave the hospital. Advertisement 76% South Koreans back govts plan A Gallup Korea poll showed last week that about 76 per cent of South Koreans are in favour of the governments plan to increase the number of medical students. With inputs from agencies The tea-for-oil deal was agreed upon in December 2021, but exports were delayed by Colombos economic crisis that forced then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down in July 2022. Cash-strapped Sri Lanka said on Wednesday that it had exported tea valued at $20 million to Iran as part of its efforts to partially settle its $251 million oil debts. Colombo said Tehrans visiting foreign minister had expressed satisfaction at the deal. According to a statement from Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardenas office, the country has exported $20 million worth of tea to Iran under the barter trade agreement. Advertisement The agreement was reached in December 2021, but the exports were delayed due to Colombos economic crisis, which led to the resignation of then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July 2022. The barter arrangement enables Iran, which is grappling with sanctions, to acquire popular tea imports without depleting its scarce foreign currency reserves. So far $20 million worth of tea has been exported to Iran under the barter trade agreement, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardenas office said in a statement after talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The tea-for-oil deal was agreed upon in December 2021, but exports were delayed by Colombos economic crisis that forced then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down in July 2022. The barter deal allows sanctions-hit Iran to avoid using up scarce hard currency to pay for imports of popular tea. It also allowed Sri Lanka to pay with tea, as the country was short of foreign currency. Advertisement The island defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 and secured a $2.9 billion IMF bailout early last year. Ceylon tea, known by the islands colonial-era name, made up nearly half of Irans consumption in 2016. However, the proportion has declined in recent years. With inputs from AFP. Turkey on Wednesday celebrated the inaugural flight of KAAN, its first indigenous combat aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the nations air force modernisation endeavor Turkey on Wednesday celebrated the inaugural flight of KAAN, its first indigenous combat aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the nations air force modernisation endeavor. Turkey, a member of NATO, initiated the TF-X project back in 2016 with the aim of manufacturing its own combat aircraft. In 2017, Turkish aerospace company TUSAS inked a $125 million agreement with Britains BAE Systems to advance the development of the next-generation fighter jet. Advertisement A video released by TUSAS depicted the awe-inspiring moment when a KAAN fighter jet gracefully ascended into the skies before returning to an air base located in northern Ankara. The new fighter jet will initially be powered by two General Electric F-110 engines, which are also used on fourth-generation Lockheed Martin F-16 jets. Turkey aims to use domestically produced engines on KAAN in serial production, Gorgun has said, with that expected to start in 2028. Turkey recently secured a deal to procure 40 F-16 fighter jets and 79 modernisation kits for its existing F-16s from the United States, after a long-delayed process. The U.S. imposed sanctions on NATO member Turkeys defence industry in December 2020 over its acquisition of Russias S-400 missile defence system and expelled Ankara from the F-35 stealth fighter jet program, where it was a manufacturer and buyer. Advertisement Ankara is also interested in buying 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, built by a consortium of Germany, Britain, Italy and Spain, represented by Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo. With inputs from agencies FCDO Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and the Prime Ministers Special Representative, Tariq Ahmad reaffirms the UKs commitment to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific region In addition to attending the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Britains minister for South Asia in the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, Lord Tariq Ahmad, arrived in India Wednesday to talk about the status of the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the UK. Leading the British delegation to the premier foreign policy conference, Ahmad, FCDO Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and the Prime Ministers Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, reaffirms the UKs commitment to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Advertisement He is in India at the same time that Indias Commerce Secretary, Sunil Barthwal, is leading a team to London to continue this weeks fourteenth round of negotiations with UK officials. The UK and India continue to work towards an ambitious trade deal. While we do not comment on the details of live negotiations, we continue to actively engage with India and are clear that we will only sign a deal that is fair, balanced and ultimately in the best interests of the British people and the economy, said a spokesperson for the UKs Department for Business and Trade as an update on the negotiations. According to official figures, the bilateral trade between India and the UK increased to USD 20.36 billion in 2022-23 from USD 17.5 billion in 2021-22. India and the UK launched the talks for an FTA in January 2022 and both sides are keen to clinch a deal before general elections scheduled in both countries this year. Advertisement There are 26 chapters in the agreement, which include goods, services, investments and intellectual property rights. The Indian industry is demanding greater access for its skilled professionals from sectors like IT and healthcare in the UK market, besides market access for several goods at nil customs duty. On the other hand, the UK is seeking a significant cut in import duties on goods such as Scotch whisky, electric vehicles, lamb meat, chocolates and certain confectionary items. Advertisement Against a backdrop of rising conflict and instability, the UKs commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific is enduring. The UK-India relationship is at the heart of that commitment, which is not just about rhetoric or slogans; it is happening now and is set to improve lives across the UK and the region for years to come, said Lord Ahmad. Advertisement Following a plenary with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the FCDO said the minister will hold meetings with key counterparts from the government of India, including Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla to highlight the strong UK-India trade partnership and embrace new opportunities to collaborate, including on energy. Advertisement They will also discuss progress towards an ambitious trade deal, for which there is strong political will on both sides, the FCDO said. Against a backdrop of an increasingly volatile world, the UK minister wants to highlight that the prosperity and security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific are inseparable. Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a key pillar of the UKs long-term foreign policy, as part of its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific set out in the UKs Integrated Review Refresh, the FCDO pointed out. Advertisement While in India, Ahmad also marks the second anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which the FCDO said underlined the link between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific through its impact on global energy and food costs. On the margins of the Raisina Dialogue, the minister will discuss how to ease the desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza with key figures in the Middle East. This follows his travel to the region last week to push an immediate humanitarian pause in fighting. Advertisement With inputs from PTI UKs elite Special Air Service (SAS) killed scores of Afghan civilians unlawfully between 2010 and 2013, Britains minister for veterans Johnny Mercer has told an inquiry UKs elite Special Air Service (SAS) killed scores of Afghan civilians unlawfully between 2010 and 2013, Britains minister for veterans Johnny Mercer has told an inquiry. According to a report in The Guardian, Mercer, himself an army veteran whose last tour in Afghanistan was in 2010, said he believed the SAS carried out these killings and had also raised it after assuming ministership with the then defence secretary Ben Wallace in 2019. Mercer, per the report in The Guardian, also said that he was shot down by Wallace. The latter greenlighted a probe later, but Mercer said he felt being gamed. Advertisement Himself an army veteran, Mercer said the SAS actions slowly dawned upon him during and after his last Afghanistan tour in 2010 since he was also alerted by colleagues in the matter after he became Member of Parliament in 2017. I dont want to believe it, but at every stage I have tried to find something to disprove these allegations, but I have been unable to, Mercer told the inquiry Tuesday, an effective confirmation of the killings, The Guardian said. Mercer became minister for veterans affairs first in 2019 and remained in office up until 2021 before assuming the charge again in July 2022. According to the report in The Guardian, the minister said he found unconvincing the explanations given by the Ministry of Defence officials. Mercer also revealed how the SAS had stonewalled giving evidence. An investigator appointed by the Royal Military Police had asked for the body cam footage of 10 random SAS officers, a request that was snubbed with claims that no such footage existed for any operation. Advertisement The UK minister also told the inquiry committee that he had told Wallace that he did not find plausible that no camera footage existed since after a mission in 2006 went sideways, full-motion video was a go/no go requirement for SAS operations. Moreover, body cam footages were backed up. Mercer made explosive claims, saying that while in 2017 he was rallying to fight a spate of false allegations of wrongdoing by the army in Iraq, he was told by a former fellow soldier that the latter was asked to carry a weapon to be planted as evidence justifying killings in a night raid in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. Advertisement Mercer, however, did not reveal the identity of his sources. The simple reality at this stage is Im not prepared to burn them not when, in my judgment, you are already speaking to people who have far greater knowledge of what was going on, The Guardian quoted Mercer as having told the inquiry. Advertisement Judge Charles Haddon-Cave, who chaired the inquiry, asked Mercer to disclose the names since the inquiry was independent of the government and was adept at handling sensitive information. The inquiry was instituted by Wallace, but three years too late after Mercer said he had informed him. Significant trade restrictions have already been placed on Russia by the US since the beginning of the Ukraine war around two years ago Authorities in the Siberian prison said that Navalny passed away after going for a walk in his prison colony and losing consciousness Image Courtesy Reuters The White House has warned that it will expand the sanctions against Russia following the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a Siberian prison camp. A story in The Independent claims that on Friday, the Biden administration will unveil a new set of penalties against Moscow. This occurs one day after US President Joe Biden informed reporters that, in light of Navalnys passing, he was thinking about imposing additional sanctions. Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, was held accountable by Biden on Friday for the opposition leaders passing. Advertisement Although he would not comment on specifics of the additional penalties, John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokeswoman, pointed the finger at Putin. Whatever story the Russian government decides to tell the world, its clear that President Putin and his government are responsible for Mr Navalnys death. In response, at President Bidens direction, we will be announcing a major sanctions package on Friday of this week, he told reporters at a briefing on Tuesday. Significant trade restrictions have already been placed on Russia by the US since the beginning of the Ukraine war around two years ago. Kirby was also quoted by CNBC as stating that the continuous attempt to cripple Russias economy will be strengthened by further sanctions. Authorities in the Siberian prison said that Navalny passed away after going for a walk in his prison colony and losing consciousness. Along with condemning the West, the Kremlin declared that his death will be investigated. Advertisement The wife of the Russian opposition leader, Yulia Navalnaya, accused Putin of being to blame for her husbands passing; the Kremlin refuted this claim. In addition, she charged that Navalny had been poisoned by the Kremlin, saying that his body was being held until the poisons remnants would disappear. Navalny was hospitalized in Germany in 2020 as a result of the same charges. Following his discharge from foster care, Navalny and his spouse went back to Russia, only to be apprehended at a Moscow airport. Advertisement (With agency inputs) Qualcomm has announced significant updates to enhance digital transformation ahead of MWC Barcelona next week. These updates include: Enhancing 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Deployment Qualcomm unveiled the Qualcomm 5G Fixed Wireless Access Ultra Gen 3 Platform to enhance global deployment of 5G mmWave FWA. With superior mmWave performance and reduced power consumption by over 50%, this platform supports indoor and outdoor installations. Its AI-enhanced system search and selection technology improves RF performance while offering enhanced self-install capabilities, reducing environmental impact, and meeting regional power standards. Intelligent Computing Solutions for 5G Infrastructure Qualcomm enhances 5G infrastructure with intelligent computing solutions: Qualcomm Infrastructure Processors: Tailored for Open vRAN servers and cost-efficient 5G small cells, these processors offer high performance and lower TCO for MNOs. They prioritize AI workloads, easing cost burdens for 5G deployments in homes and small offices. RAN and AI Processing Innovation: Leveraging heterogeneous computing, Qualcomm redefines AI and RAN workload processing in vRAN servers. The Qualcomm Oryon CPU and integrated accelerators, alongside the X100 5G RAN Accelerator Card, optimize performance per watt and cost structures for Open vRAN setups, crucial for enhancing 5G network efficiency. 5G Small Cell Innovation: The Qualcomm FSM100 5G RAN platform, featuring the QIP100 Infrastructure Processor, is now available for small cell deployments. It offers the ideal mix of performance, capacity, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for residential and small office environments, meeting the demand for high-speed, low-latency 5G connectivity. Progress in Open vRAN Adoption Qualcomms 5G infrastructure tools, particularly in Open vRAN platforms, are gaining traction, with Viettel showcasing speeds up to 1,200 Mbps using Qualcomm technology in their recent deployment. Further advancements are anticipated, including Fujitsus O-RAN compliant 64TRX Massive MIMO Radio Unit and Qualcomms efficient vRAN servers, promising improved total cost of ownership for operators. At MWC, Mavenir and Qualcomm will update on their collaboration, presenting a cost-reducing vDU solution and high-performing Massive MIMO Radios. Boosting the Development of Smart 5G Infrastructure Qualcomm Technologies is advancing 5G infrastructure with smart computing, integrating AI and powerful processing into their 5G RAN portfolio. This innovation boosts network performance, reduces costs, and promotes eco-friendliness for operators. Offering Infrastructure Processors for vRAN servers and small cells, along with rapid deployment of 5G RAN platforms for Open vRAN, Qualcomm is poised to meet diverse operator requirements in the dynamic 5G landscape. Advancements for 6G by Qualcomm Qualcomm pioneers 6G solutions, focusing on enhancing 5G efficiency and exploring higher midband spectrum for Giga-MIMO technology to meet future capacity demands. Key areas of innovation include: Improved mmWave Deployment: Expansion of 5G mmWave test network in San Diego with hybrid beamforming for better performance and flexible infrastructure options. Expansion of 5G mmWave test network in San Diego with hybrid beamforming for better performance and flexible infrastructure options. Enhanced Wireless AI: Leading research in wireless AI for interoperable implementations across devices and networks, collaborating with Nokia Bell Labs on innovations like sequential learning and AI-enabled mmWave beam management. Leading research in wireless AI for interoperable implementations across devices and networks, collaborating with Nokia Bell Labs on innovations like sequential learning and AI-enabled mmWave beam management. Digital Twin Network: Introducing the digital twin network concept for real-time modeling of wireless systems, aimed at enhancing user experiences and network performance. Introducing the digital twin network concept for real-time modeling of wireless systems, aimed at enhancing user experiences and network performance. Sub-THz Research: Exploring sub-THz spectrum for 6G, demonstrating practical communication in the 140 GHz band and dynamic wireless links in data centers. Exploring 5G Expansion With over 1.5 billion 5G connections worldwide, Qualcomm aims to broaden 5Gs impact across various devices and industries. Better Car Connectivity: Advancing wireless tech for safer and enhanced automotive experiences, Qualcomm showcased its cloud platform supporting safer road use and demonstrated automotive safety at intersections. Advancing wireless tech for safer and enhanced automotive experiences, Qualcomm showcased its cloud platform supporting safer road use and demonstrated automotive safety at intersections. Enhanced AR: Collaborating with Hololight and Ericsson, Qualcomm aims to improve augmented reality across various network conditions by seamlessly switching processing between the cloud and devices. Collaborating with Hololight and Ericsson, Qualcomm aims to improve augmented reality across various network conditions by seamlessly switching processing between the cloud and devices. Evolution of 5G RedCap: Qualcomm demonstrates scaling 5G networks to support more devices with RedCap while conserving device power. Qualcomm demonstrates scaling 5G networks to support more devices with RedCap while conserving device power. 5G from Space: Qualcomms 5G NTN testbed showcases connectivity with satellites for wider coverage and backup during downtime, ensuring seamless mobility between terrestrial and satellite networks. Qualcomms 5G NTN testbed showcases connectivity with satellites for wider coverage and backup during downtime, ensuring seamless mobility between terrestrial and satellite networks. 5G Broadcast for Media Delivery: Qualcomm, Rohde & Schwarz, and broadcasters are readying 5G broadcast for commercial use, aligning with the global smartphone ecosystem. Introducing Wi-Fi 7 for Automobiles Qualcomm introduces the Qualcomm QCA6797AQ, the first Automotive Grade Wi-Fi 7 Access Point solution. Its designed to meet advanced in-vehicle demands, featuring High Band Simultaneous (HBS), Multi-link Multi-Radio (MLMR), 320 MHz channel bandwidth, 4K QAM, and Adaptive Puncturing. Key updates of Wi-Fi 7 for Automobiles include: Improved reliability and reduced latency: Wi-Fi 7 enhances connection reliability with HBS MLMR, ensuring uninterrupted data transfers. Operating on 5GHz and 6GHz channels simultaneously selects the best channel for smoother experiences, even in crowded environments. Increased capacity and faster speeds: Utilizing the 6GHz spectrum, Wi-Fi 7 offers 320 MHz channels and 4K QAM for peak throughputs of up to 5.8 Gbps. Adaptive Puncturing optimizes spectrum use, enabling higher data rates and lower latencies to accommodate the growing number of Wi-Fi devices in vehicles. Advancing automotive through connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 integration enables automakers and fleet service providers to offer connected services, creating new revenue streams. It facilitates faster software updates, efficient data offloading, and enhanced user experiences beyond the point of sale, fostering direct connections with consumers. Availability Qualcomm is scheduled to attend MWC Barcelona from February 26 to 29, 2024. ? La presidenta Dina Boluarte destaco que la cooperacion internacional es un recurso clave para alcanzar los objetivos en materia de reactivacion economica y seguridad ciudadana, propiciando un desarrollo mas solido y equitativo en el pais. ? Asimismo, la mandataria afirmo que pic.twitter.com/nlVM8m6lB6 Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. FILE - Palestinians line up for a free meal in Rafah, Gaza Strip, Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. The World Food Program said Tuesday it has paused deliveries of food to isolated northern Gaza because of increasing chaos across the territory, hiking fears of potential starvation. A study by the U.N. children's agency warned that one in six children in the north are acutely malnourished. Growing air service in and out of Grand Junction continues to be a focus for the Grand Junction Regional Airport Authority in 2024. Grand Junction Airport Executive Director Angela Padalecki presented the airports proposed 2024 goals to the Airport Authority last week, and maintaining sustainable air service growth topped the list. We think on a pretty long time horizon at airports, obviously, but honing in to a one-year period I think really helps orient everyone and ensure there is alignment on expectations and what our priorities are, Padalecki said. The airport made progress on air service last year, including bringing in new carrier Breeze Airways, which began flying this month, but they want to see that continue. Im so happy with the progress weve made in 2023, Padalecki said. We again passed a half a million passengers, putting us right back in that position to where we are on track for sustainable growth. A major part of the goal to add more air service, Padalecki said, is connecting Grand Junction to air service hubs, like Salt Lake City, that can improve connectivity to the west. Delta Airlines ended its service between Grand Junction and Salt Lake City in 2021. As we look big, we really need better connectivity going west, Padalecki said. Wed like to secure new service to a western hub. So that means a place you can connect. The Breeze service is amazing and were so excited about it, but thats point-to-point. What were talking about is Delta to Salt Lake or United to San Francisco or Alaska to Seattle or Delta to Seattle. Breeze launched its first flight to Orange County, California on Feb. 6 and will add its second route, to San Francisco, in May. The airport is also looking to make a new connection to the east by 2026, Padalecki said. While another hub, like Atlanta, would be desirable, Padalecki said other point-to-point destinations would also be beneficial. Weve really been able to hone in on a couple destinations that we think could really make sense for point-to-point carriers as well, Padalecki said. You know, Florida is booming. We would love to see nonstop service to Florida. Improving airport sustainability and advancing airport development continue to be goals for the airport this year, Padalecki said. That includes continuing its runway replacement project and pursuing other capital projects this year. We have to replace the primary runway, Padalecki said. We need to make progress on projects within the terminal, like replacing our outgoing baggage system. There is a reason you dont see those big TSA machines behind ticket counters in very many airports. Its inefficient. Increasing or maintaining high engagement from employees and the community were also goals Padalecki listed for this year. She said both are high, but that the airport would continue to make efforts in that area. Overall, Padalecki said she would like to see the airport be used more this year than in any year it has previously. I hope that we will serve more passengers than ever this year and break our 2021 record, Padalecki said. What that looks like is close to 5% growth over the last year. That to me feels like an achievable goal. The Airport Authority board will review the goals and may provide comments. The board plans to vote on the 2024 goals at its March meeting. Heather Sackett/Aspen Journalism Bidders keep track of figures in a water auction at the Boulder County Fairgrounds last Wednesday. Ninety units of Colorado-Big Thompson Project water were auctioned off for a total of $4.7 million. Mesa County Commissioners couldnt have been clearer: The county is most definitely not a sanctuary for illegal immigrants. The commissioners sent that message in two ways during their regular meeting Tuesday, approving a resolution saying so, and sending a letter to Denver Mayor Mike Johnston telling him the county isnt going to help with his citys recent immigration woes. An issue came to light a week ago when a national news outlet reported that Johnston had been speaking with the cities of Grand Junction and Fort Collins about taking in some of the immigrants that have been bused from the southern border to U.S. cities that have declared themselves sanctuaries, such as Denver. But that wasnt true, at least not in the case of Grand Junction and Mesa County, the commissioners said. It was Denver, not this county, that made the decision to become a sanctuary city, and now theyre faced with the consequences of that decision, Commissioner Janet Rowland said. The solution is not to send these folks to Mesa County. The responsible thing for Denver to do is to rescind its decision as a sanctuary city. The resolution and letter to Johnston says Mesa Countys first priority is to its own residents, saying that more than 46,000 county residents one third the countys population are receiving some form of public benefits, with an average of 1,500 new applications for aid each month. Furthermore, commissioners said the county already has an estimated 2,300 homeless people here, and is short about $400,000 in funding for its Senior Nutrition Program, also known as Meals on Wheels. In short, the county cant afford to help even if it wanted to, the board said. The commissioners said that if Johnston was talking to anyone in Grand Junction or the county, it was some nonprofit group. Although such groups may have the wherewithal to provide food and other services, they arent able to provide such things as shelter, health care or education, the commissioners said. Good intentions dont magically create new resources, so we want to project to everybody that we cant be an immigration sanctuary town because we dont have the resources, Commissioner Cody Davis said. We dont feel like its ethical or moral to project that to anyone. Were just trying to set the record straight with the resolution and with the letter to Mike Johnston, and to nonprofits as well who may be relying on potential funding sources locally to help house, feed, all these things. The commissioners said they arent without empathy to the immigrants plight, but they dont want to give them false hope that the services they require are available in the city or county. The also wanted to make it clear that they distinguish between immigrants fleeing their own nations for economic or political reasons, illegally or not, and the properly documented migrant workers who come to the county to work on farms and orchards. To invite people to freely come without going through the process and have no provisions for shelter, food, health care, that is cruel, Rowland said. Its also important to clarify the distinction between immigrants, which is what we reference in our resolution, and migrants who are here typically for work and typically for short periods of time. Ive heard some people suggest that someone was going to be turning away the migrant workers that come here every year to work in our farms and ranches, and that is not the case. Charlie Talbott, who helps run Talbott Farms in Palisade, told commissioners there also seems to be a misunderstanding that such operations could help the situation by hiring some of the immigrants, but that, too, is not so. By law, they cannot. Instead, they are required to go through the federal governments H-2A program, which requires them to recruit migrant workers on a temporary basis though legal channels, providing them fair pay, shelter and transportation to and from the border to their operations. From the agricultural, employer standpoint, there is a thought that perhaps this would provide an abundance of workers to ag employers, and that just is not true, Talbott said. We and our peers in the fruit-growing industry throughout Mesa County rely almost 100% on the H-2A program, he added. Its cumbersome. We really hope Congress will give us a better farm-labor program, but these workers are vetted. They go through the American consulate in Mexico before they come. We cannot legally employ people who do not have proper documentation. What the county is prepared to do for anyone in need, however, is provide basic services, but not short- or long-term housing. Deputy County Administrator Todd Hollenbeck said the countys public health department and emergency services agency have long worked with local nonprofit groups that are geared toward aiding immigrants. We do have a plan in place that works in close coordination with these nonprofit organizations, he said. We have the ability to stand up medical screenings to make sure people coming in to our community are not infectious in some way. We can give them resource information packets. We will not be providing shelter or further services beyond that. Hollenbeck said the resolution provides county staff with the impetus to revamp its emergency management plan on such things, saying changes can be made as needed if a large influx of immigrants heads this way. The basics right now is making sure weve got that coordination in effect, and were able to respond quickly and adequately if a bus arrives to be able to address those immediate needs, he said. Saturday Night Partly cloudy in the evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers after midnight. Low 43F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Assange Lawyers Make Last Bid to Prevent Extradition By VOA News February 20, 2024 Lawyers for Julian Assange on Tuesday made a last-ditch effort to prevent his extradition to the United States after fighting it for more than a decade. Facing espionage charges, the WikiLeaks founder has already seen several attempts to fight extradition rejected. Addressing the Royal Courts of Justice in London, Assange's legal team sought a new appeal hearing as hundreds of supporters rallied outside with "Free Julian Assange" signs. His lawyers contend that his actions uncovered significant criminal misconduct by U.S. authorities and that their client risks "flagrant denial of justice" if forced to the U.S. "He is being prosecuted for engaging in ordinary journalistic practice of obtaining and publishing classified information, information that is both true and of obvious and important public interest," Edward Fitzgerald, Assange's lead lawyer, told the court. Assange is facing 17 charges of espionage, along with one charge of computer misuse over publication of classified U.S. documents on the WikiLeaks website. U.S. prosecutors also say Assange helped U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal files that were later published and put lives at risk. James Lewis, the lawyer representing the U.S., emphasized that Assange's actions posed a significant threat to the strategic and national security interests of the U.S. and put individuals named in the documents a including Iraqis and Afghans who had helped the U.S. a at risk of "serious physical harm." If the British court rules against Assange, his lawyers have vowed to challenge his extradition in the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France. Supporters, however, worry that he could be sent to the U.S. before that can happen. The British government has already signed an extradition order, despite previously rejecting the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held in the harsh U.S. prison system. Despite being granted permission to attend the trial Tuesday from Belmarsh Prison outside London where he has been detained for five years, Assange was notably absent, opting not to appear. His legal representative highlighted his absence, citing his current state of being "unwell" and acknowledging a decline in his health during his prolonged incarceration. According to Assange's legal team, if convicted, he could potentially face up to 175 years in prison, although U.S. authorities have indicated the likelihood of a considerably shorter term. Some information is from The Associated Press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Feb. 18 Summary of Red Sea Activities U.S. Central Command Press Release | Feb. 19, 2024 USCENTCOM Feb. 19, 2024 Release Number 20240219 - 01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TAMPA, Fla. - Between 9:30 and 10:45 p.m., Feb. 18, two anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched from Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist-controlled areas of Yemen toward MV Rubymar, a Belize-flagged, UK-owned bulk carrier. One of the missiles struck the vessel, causing damage. The ship issued a distress call and a coalition warship along with another merchant vessel responded to the call to assist the crew of the MV Rubymar. The crew was transported to a nearby port by the merchant vessel. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 19 February 2024 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's noon briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. ** Noon Briefing Guest Good afternoon. We have no guest today, no Monica [Grayley] today, but tomorrow, we will have Bruno Lemarquis, the Humanitarian Coordinator for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who will be here to brief you on what's going on in the humanitarian situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. ** Secretary-General's Travel The Secretary-General, as you know, is in Doha, where the second meeting of the Special Envoys on Afghanistan ended just a few hours ago. Mr. [Antonio] Guterres will be on his way back to New York shortly, and we expect him tomorrow morning. During the meeting, the participants discussed the Independent Assessment, mandated by the Security Council resolution and led by the Special Coordinator appointed by the Secretary-General, Feridun Sinirlioglu, as well as the way forward. Speaking to the media after his final session, the Secretary-General said the participants agreed they want an Afghanistan in peace peace with itself and peace with its neighbours. He described a consensus among participants on the vision of an Afghanistan with inclusive institutions, in which its diverse groups all feel represented. There was also a consensus on the concerns about respect for human rights, and in particular, the respect for the rights of women and girls. The Secretary-General said the special envoys agreed to continue holding these meetings at different levels, adding that he hopes the de facto authorities will join the discussions in the future. Also today, the Secretary-General had a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani. He thanked Qatar for hosting the meeting of Special Envoys and also expressed his deep appreciation for the country's continued mediation role regarding the expansion of humanitarian aid to Gaza, an interruption of hostilities and of course the release of hostages. The transcript of the stakeout and readout were shared with you. And as mentioned, Mr. Guterres will be back in these United States tomorrow morning. ** Deputy Secretary-General's Travel Meanwhile, his Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed was today in Bangkok, where she met with Anutin Charnvirakul, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Interior of Thailand, to discuss the critical role of local and regional governments in advancing the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the support of the United Nations for the Government's efforts. Ms. Mohammed then chaired the United Nations Regional Collaborative Mechanism for Asia and the Pacific, where participants discussed regional-level efforts to effectively support SDG acceleration and the UN resident coordinators and UN country teams in 23 countries. Meeting with the UN resident coordinators for the region, they discussed how to accelerate progress and support governments and other stakeholders in shaping just transitions and investment pathways for the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at the country level. Also today, Ms. Mohammed held meetings with senior UN officials from various country teams. ** Occupied Palestinian Territory Moving to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that negotiations are ongoing to evacuate remaining patients from the Nasser Hospital, which, as you know, is in Khan Younis, where an Israeli military operation is ongoing, we were told. Yesterday, the Office, along with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, visited the hospital and evacuated 14 patients. Meanwhile, the situation in Al Amal Hospital also in Khan Younis remains critical, following a four-week siege by the Israeli military. Food supplies have reportedly been nearly exhausted, and fuel reserves are dwindling. As the bombardment of Gaza continues, public health concerns are mounting with women hardest hit. The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) has warned that everyone in Gaza is hungry, including some 50,000 pregnant women. We and our partners are doing all we can to provide food assistance across the Gaza Strip, despite major challenges to the humanitarian response, including ongoing air strikes and heavy fighting. Last week, more than a dozen partners reached 1.5 million people with nearly one third of food supplies going to Rafah Governorate, 28 per cent to Deir al Balah, just over a quarter to Khan Younis and 14 per cent to the north. To do more, we need secure, more uninterrupted humanitarian corridors in Gaza. And we need more trucks and fuel inside Gaza to ensure a consistent and predictable food humanitarian delivery. Also today, the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, visited the Gaza Strip. He spoke with internally displaced families and listened to their stories. He met with UN and NGO [non-governmental organization] personnel doing the very difficult work to deliver vital humanitarian assistance to those in need. He also reviewed the operational and security challenges, including the breakdown of law and order, facing the entry and distribution of humanitarian goods. It's clear that more needs to be done. The UN needs the tools to deliver on the ground, including the need for Israel to allow entry of items critical to UN operations and to improve deconfliction. Mr. Wennesland described the situation in Gaza as disastrous, saying that you can easily recognize the despair and the fear faced by the people. Adding that there are nearly 1.4 million Palestinians crammed in Rafah with barely any resources, hardly any access to medical care, nowhere to sleep, and nowhere safe to go, he warned that a full-scale Israeli military operation into Rafah may lead to a far more perilous situation. ** Sigrid Kaag Staying on the same subject but moving to Brussels, Sigrid Kaag, the Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, spoke to the European Union Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels today, and she told reporters afterwards that she had briefed foreign ministers on the facilitation, expedition and acceleration of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, as well as negotiations around the establishment of a mechanism which is supposed to verify and monitor assistance. She said that strong support was issued for the mission and for the UN's efforts on the ground. The full transcript of her questions and answers was shared with you. ** Somalia And this morning, Catriona Laing, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, and Head of the political mission there, briefed the Security Council on the situation in the country. She noted that the Federal Government of Somalia has made solid progress in recent months in the implementation of its priorities, including the completion of a critical security roadmap. On the Ethiopia and "Somaliland" announcement of a memorandum of understanding, which reportedly grants Ethiopia a 50-year lease on 20 kilometres of coastline, she echoed the words of the Secretary-General who has recalled that the Security Council has repeatedly affirmed its respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of Somalia and called for all parties to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue to refrain from inflammatory words and actions that could further escalate tensions. ** Ukraine Turning to Ukraine, our colleagues in the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs inform us that a surge of hostilities over the weekend in front lines areas led to civilian casualties, as well as to damage and destruction of civilian infrastructure. In the Donetsk region, in the east, local authorities reported at least a dozen civilian casualties and damage to more than 150 homes and civilian facilities damaged, including a school. In the Kharkiv region, in the east, intensified fighting led to more civilian casualties and damage to homes, three education facilities and a medical institution. That's according to local authorities. Humanitarian organizations are mobilized and have provided materials for emergency repairs to houses. Meanwhile, we, along with our partners, are supplying the response to address the impact of oil spillage on water sources in Kharkiv City after a strike on an oil storage facility in that area on 9 February. ** Democratic Republic of the Congo And I have an update from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Our peacekeeping colleagues tell us that in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, they remain deeply concerned by the renewed escalation of hostilities in the eastern part of the country. They reiterate their call on the M23 [23 March Movement] group to cease its offensive and to respect the Luanda Roadmap. Meanwhile, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) continues to support the Congolese army by defending major routes leading to key towns of Sake and Goma in North Kivu Province. Due to the deteriorating security situation around Sake and Goma, the Mission is reinforcing its presence there by bringing in peacekeepers from its Force Intervention Brigade; that's based in Beni, in the northern part of the province. The Mission also met with the coordinator of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in North Kivu that took place over the weekend and that was to coordinate joint military action in the defence of both Sake and Goma. It also expressed concern over recent disinformation campaigns targeting peacekeepers, which is hampering the peacekeepers' ability to implement their mandate. Peacekeepers are continuing to facilitate safe passage of civilians fleeing the fighting to more secure areas, including around the Kitchanga base, which some 25,000 civilians have sought shelter with the UN. ** South Sudan Meanwhile, the head of the peacekeeping operations department, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, is in South Sudan for a joint visit to the region with Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa. The focus of the visit is on assessing progress made on the peace process and the preparations under way for the upcoming December elections the country's first since independence. Speaking upon his arrival in Juba yesterday, he said this is an important time for South Sudan and his visit is an expression of the UN family's solidarity with the country. Adding that it is clear the region is facing many challenges, including hostilities in Sudan, which are having an impact on South Sudan, intercommunal tensions in Abyei, which we've talked to you about, as well as other issues such as the impact of climate change on communities. Mr. Lacroix and Ms. Tetteh will then go to Abyei later this week. ** Sudan A note from Sudan, where the World Food Programme (WFP) is warning us that at least 25 million people across Sudan, South Sudan and Chad are struggling with soaring rates of hunger and malnutrition as the crisis in Sudan sends shockwaves around the region - at a time when WFP is facing an almost $300 million funding gap for the next six months. WFP says that people who are crossing to South Sudan or Chad are hungry and arriving with no resources. WFP had to prioritize scarce resources for new arrivals, this means pre-existing refugees no longer receive assistance. We have been sounding the alarm for months now regarding the humanitarian situation in Sudan. There are 18 million acutely food insecure people within the country, most are trapped in areas of active fighting where WFP and aid agencies are struggling to maintain consistent access. To avoid a hunger catastrophe as we approach the lean season, our agencies need to be able to provide support to families in Sudan. ** Financial Contribution A quiz today. James, you missed the hint, but there you go: In 1976, Bob Dylan wrote a beautiful song about this country, where he said I'd like to spend some time there. [Response from the crowd] No. For all of you "parrotheads", Jimmy Buffett and Emmylou Harris also did a copy version of this song. It is Mozambique. I don't know if you claim the first question, James, but there you go. ** Questions and Answers Correspondent : I've been to Mozambique. Spokesman : Yes, yes, you've been to Mozambique. In fact, I don't think Bob Dylan ever went to Mozambique. Alright, but we thank our friends in Maputo. Question : We, now as you know, are supposed to have a Security Council vote on Gaza in less than 24 hours, on an Algerian draft. There is now a US draft, as well, before the Security Council, although that's not in blue. Just from the Secretary-General's point of view, what does he want the Security Council to achieve? Spokesman : Well, we understand negotiations are still ongoing, so I don't think I'll get into the details of it. What the Secretary-General would like to see, first of all, on the ground is a humanitarian ceasefire, the immediate release of all hostages, increasing humanitarian access. He would like to see the Security Council speak with one voice on this issue, which has been challenging. Question : And as you know, he's been calling for a long time for a ceasefire; the reason there has not been a ceasefire is because of the US veto. They have been opposed to that word ceasefire. In their new draft, they now are underscoring support for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practicable. Is he pleased that the US have significantly changed their position? Spokesman : I'm not going to get into commenting on draft resolution. Question : I'm going to try again, though. In the US draft, it also talks, and you did talk about this earlier on in the briefing, about a major ground offensive into Rafah, resulting in further harms to civilians and their further displacement, including potentially into neighbouring countries; and then the draft paragraph says such a major ground offensive should not proceed under current circumstances. Does the Secretary-General agree with that reasoning? Spokesman : I think Secretary-General has, I think, been very vocal expressing his extreme worry at the impact of a ground offensive in Rafah. Question : So, does he hope the Security Council will take action on this? Spokesman : He hopes the Security Council will speak with one voice, hopefully mirroring his own position, but that's far as I'll go for now. Okay. Yes. I mean, I'm... I know it's Monday. Yes, sir. Go ahead. Question : Yep, about Russia. How do you think the assassination of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Russia, as well as the disqualification of Boris Nadezhdin from running in the elections, will affect the legitimacy of the electoral process in Russia, from the point of view of the international community? Spokesman : I mean, I'm not into making predictions. Let's wait and see for the elections to happen. Benno? Question : Thank you. Ursula Von der Leyen announced that she wants to run again for the Commission Chief of the European Union. Do you have any comment? Spokesman : I mean, A, we don't have a vote in this process. It's not our process. We have difficulty commenting on our own processes, so we'll refrain from commenting. I will, however, say that the Secretary-General had a very good, productive and positive relationship with her in this post and in her previous one. Dezhi, then Miriam. Correspondent : First, a follow-up on the draft resolution by Algeria. Spokesman : You'll be luckier than James? Question : Let me try this. So, on Sunday, the US Ambassador posted this statement, said that this resolution wouldn't achieve outcomes regarding the releasing of hostages and negotiations in Cairo, I believe, and indeed may run counter to them, and so for these reasons, the US does not support action on this draft resolution. I just checked the draft resolution for two parts. First one, on the expansion and the double down of efforts for Sigrid Kaag to work there; and second, urged for a temporary ceasefire. I mean, the Secretary-General called for a ceasefire for a long time. Does that mean that the SG is running counter to the negotiations in Cairo? Because, you know, that's what the statement says. Because you're calling for basically the same thing, right? Spokesman : I will leave all this analysis to you, Dezhi. Question : So, and the second thing is: Does the Secretary-General feel, how to say that, content on the process of Ms. Sigrid Kaag's work? I mean, is it too slow? Spokesman : Okay, you know, the only thing we can control is the intensity and the efficiency in which she is working and her team is working. And we, of course, have... she is doing whatever she can. She's working hard. She's talking to people she needs to talk to. But, as always, the levers of power are not in the hands of the Secretary-General, nor in the hands of Sigrid Kaag. She's doing whatever she can and, I mean, she's... Question : Yeah. It's been beyond two months. Spokesman : I'm not debating the calendar with you. I'm just saying, I know she is working, and her team are working as quickly and as efficiently as they can, but they don't hold the levers of power. Question : Does anybody sabotage her work? Spokesman : I will leave that to investigative journalists. Mariam and I'll come back to you, Dezhi. Correspondent : No. Just one second. Spokesman : I promise I'll come back to you. Mariam? Question : Thank you, Steph. Today, UN experts express alarm over credible allegation of human rights violation to which Palestinian women and girls continue to be subjected in Gaza Strip and West Bank. Does the Secretary-General receive, has he received any of these reports, and what does he say? Spokesman : You know, let me put it this way: The independent experts are independent from us. The Office for the [United Nations] High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has been expressing these concerns. They've been highlighting these things, and we fully back and support their position on this. Question : Also, a question on Doha meeting on Afghanistan. Has the Secretary-General have a short list of people for this Special Envoy for Afghanistan? How's that process going? Do you have anything to share with us? Spokesman : That process is going, and I have nothing to share with you, beyond what the SG said. Question : Is the Special Envoy going to be introduced for the Security Council meeting on [25 February], I think? Spokesman : 25 February? Question : Yes. Is he going to have someone? Spokesman : If I signed up to Draft Kings, I would not put money on that. Correspondent : Okay. Thank you. Spokesman : But, the process is ongoing, and it will work at its own pace. I could be wrong. Benno and then Celhia. Question : I'm not sure if you commented on this already, but there are reports since a few days that Egypt is setting up a camp on its border with Gaza. Does the UN have any stake in... Spokesman : We've just seen those same reports as you have, and I think I have commented, and I've reiterated our deep worry about the situation of the more than one million people who are crammed into southern Rafah. Question : Means you're not setting up or helping setting up a camp close to Rafah? Spokesman : That's correct. Celhia, I'd realized Benno already had a question. Celhia? Question : Steph, it's about the DRC [Democratic Republic of the Congo]. Was I wrong to think that DRC has no national army, and until now when they wanted to have some sort of an army, they were hiring the M23? Spokesman : I don't know if they were hiring the M23, but what I do know is that the Armed Forces of the DRC, which are in the east, are coordinating their work with the [UN] peacekeepers, in order to protect especially to protect civilians and Goma and Sake from the advance of the M23. Sir? Question : On the eve of International Mother Language Day, day after tomorrow, I have two questions on that event. First, Bangla also has a demand or request to be included in the UN official languages as one of the seventh largest speaking languages in the world. And we all know that the United Nations has declared 21 February as International Mother Language Day, on the day of sacrifice of Bengalis for the right of mother tongue. Can you say anything about the Secretary-General's views on that request? Spokesman : Mother language Day is extremely important day. I think diversity of language and culture is extremely important and is it at the centre of a lot of our work. As for changing the six or adding to the six official languages, that, I believe, is a decision to be made by the General Assembly. Question : And second part? Spokesman : Yes, sir? Question : Is there any possibility of build a martyrs minar, or monument, or Bangladesh called Shoid Minar, on the premises of the United Nations Headquarters? Spokesman : For any piece of art or monument, there is a process involves the Arts Committee and permanent missions to know what that process is. Dulcie, then Yu. Question : Yeah. The Secretary-General's press conference at Doha, he thanked Qatar for their additional support of UNRWA [United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East] in these trying times. What was he referring to? Spokesman : Their stated commitment to give more money to UNRWA. I don't, we're trying to get an update on what other countries, what are the actual cash transfers. But, the Qataris have told us that they are willing to support UNRWA financially. Question : Did they say by how much? Spokesman : I don't have that number with me. Question : Okay. And then did the Taliban tell the Secretary-General why they didn't come to his Doha meeting? Spokesman : The Taliban did not meet with the Secretary-General. Question : But, did they convey any message? Spokesman : Rosemary DiCarlo met with them separately. I mean, I think they were very public in what they were saying. I don't want to speak further, but they were very public in their statement as to why they would not participate, and I don't believe there was any difference to what they said publicly and privately. Question : So, where did Rosemary meet with them? Spokesman : She met with them in their... my understanding is she met with them in their offices in Doha. Question : Oh, okay. And then I have one question about Egypt and the refugee camp there for the Sudanese. It Is the UN affiliated with that at all? Spokesman : For the Sudanese? Question : For the Sudanese refugees? Spokesman : That's a question you should ask UNHCR [Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees]. Thank you. Yu? Question : Thank you, Steph, so I have questions about Afghanistan, Qatar's meeting Doha's meeting but you have already answered. So, Secretary-General does not meet the top member of Taliban people coming out of the meeting? Spokesman : That's correct. They stated publicly they would not participate in the meeting. He did say in this press conference that Rosemary DiCarlo had met with their representatives in Doha. As you know, they have... these are not people who came in from Kabul, but these are people who work, who are based in Doha. Question : So how's the next step? So how does UN communicate with Taliban members to improve UN's position, human rights? Spokesman : We communicate with them by meeting with the de facto authorities in Kabul on a regular basis. The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and her deputies regularly meet with them and regularly keep pushing for the restoration of the rightful rights of women and girls in Afghanistan. James and Dezhi? Question : Sorry, there was a question that mentioned Navalny, but not a Navalny question. Can you tell me what the Secretary-General's view is of the death of Navalny? And what is his view subsequently of the fact that the body, the family would like the body handed over, and it seems like that is not happening at this stage. Spokesman : Well, I mean, on his position, I addressed that on Friday. Obviously, as our human rights colleagues said that states have a heightened responsibility for those people they hold in prison. So, we very much hope that that issue will be resolved and that, in any situation, families should have the bodies of their loved ones. Question : Are you worried that if there is a period of time here, there might be important evidence that is no longer available? Spokesman : Let's see what happens. Dezhi? Question : Actually, I only expect one word from you. Any update on the resumption of the funding for UNRWA with those Member States who had stopped it? Spokesman : As I told Dulcie, we're trying to get... Question : Yeah. I mean I mean, those who suspended...? Spokesman : No. I mean, I think those... you will hopefully see some of the announcements, as we do publicly, but we don't have any updates for you. Correspondent : Okay. That's more than one word. Spokesman : Okay. That's more than one word. Well, you ask a question. You never know what you're going to get. Jordan, please, and then Abdulhamed. Question : Some questions on Sigrid Kaag. You just send us some communication with her press encounter with journalists. And she used the phrase, right now and at the present, when she talked about UNRWA more than once or two times or three times and the language was it could be this is the way she express herself. But, my question on that: Is she eventually replacing UNRWA? Is her official replacing UNRWA in the future in Gaza? Spokesman : Not at all. Question : And my second question, who is her counterpart in Gaza? Spokesman : What do you mean? Who's her counterpart in Gaza? Question : Okay. This is... I know you're going to ask me, because some weeks ago, you sent us a reading that she has mentioned she agreed with her counterpart who is the same term counterpart, that were the foreign minister and the president. He said she meets her counterpart and agrees. Now when it comes to Palestine, who is her counterpart in Gaza? Spokesman : The official contact for the United Nations in terms of Palestine is the Palestine Authority, and she's already met with them. Abdelhamid? Question : Thank you, Stephane. I have there's so many developments to ask about, but I'll restrain myself to three. First, there is an Israeli decision now to restrict Palestinians inside Israel to reach Al-Aqsa Mosque in Ramadan and this could be a warning for escalation. Do you have any comment on that? Spokesman : I would restate what we've said about the need to uphold the status quo when it comes to the holy sites and allow people to pray in their respective parts of the holy sites. Your other question? Question : Yes. There is unanimous decision by the Israeli cabinet to deny the unilateral declaration of an independent Palestinian State. Are you aware of this decision? And what is your comments on that? Spokesman : I've seen those reports. Question : And no comment? Spokesman : Well, our comment is that we will continue to advocate for a two-State solution. Your other question, sir? Question : And the last question, 33 members of the Knesset Committee voted in preliminary decision to ban UNRWA altogether from working inside the occupied territories and Israel. Did you follow that? Spokesman : Well, I mean, the fact that we are hearing strong rhetoric against UNRWA from certain parts of the Israeli Government, including Knesset, is not really headline news. We continue to defend UNRWA. We continue to defend its vital role, its irreplaceable role right now in the work that they do in Gaza, the work they do throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as well as Jordan, as well as Syria and as well as Lebanon. Yes, sir? Then I will go. Question : I have one on Myanmar. There are concerns from various corners including United States has flagged the security risks from the Rohingya refugee crisis for Bangladesh and India, amid the ongoing conflict between the Myanmar military and rebel groups. What is the latest position of the United Nations to resolve this decision? Spokesman : On the issue between Myanmar and India? Question : No, Myanmar army and rebels? Spokesman : We're very concerned of the violence we have seen in Myanmar recently, including a reported attacks on schools by the Government air force. We are unfortunately limited in our humanitarian access, and we keep for advocating for more. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Feb. 19 and early morning Feb. 20 Red Sea Update U.S. Central Command Press Release | Feb. 20, 2024 USCENTCOM Feb. 20, 2024 Release Number 20240220 - 01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TAMPA, Fla. - On Feb 19, between 12:30 and 1:50 p.m., two anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBM) were launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen toward M/V Sea Champion, a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned grain carrier in the Gulf of Aden. Minor damage and no injuries were reported. The ship continued toward its scheduled destination to deliver grain to Aden, Yemen. A surface to air missile launcher was located and destroyed by U.S. CENTCOM forces in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen at approximately 5 p.m. One additional anti-ship ballistic missile was launched at 6:40 p.m. but did not impact any commercial or coalition ships. At 7:20 p.m., a one-way attack (OWA) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) struck the M/V Navis Fortuna, a Marshall Islands-flagged, U.S.-owned, bulk carrier causing minor damage and no injuries. The ship continued its voyage toward Italy. At 8:15 p.m., U.S. CENTCOM forces destroyed a OWA UAV in Western Yemen prepared to launch at ships in the Red Sea. Between 8 p.m. on Feb. 19 and 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 20, U.S. and coalition aircraft and warships shot down 10 OWA UAVs in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Additionally, at 12:30 a.m., Feb. 20, USS Laboon (DDG 58) identified one anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) headed in its direction. USS Laboon subsequently shot down the ASCM. The OWA UAVs, the SAM system, and ASCM destroyed were identified by CENTCOM and determined they presented imminent threats to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. These actions will protect navigational rights and freedoms and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US imposes limited pressure on Israel while intl community increasingly calls for cease-fire Global Times By Yang Sheng Published: Feb 20, 2024 07:41 PM The term that the US used in its UN Security Council draft resolution about the Gaza conflict has changed to "temporary cease-fire" rather than "pause," while 26 EU members warned Israel about the catastrophic consequence of attacking Rafah, where a large number of displaced Palestinians have fled over the course of the conflict. However, Chinese analysts said Washington is still reluctant to exert full pressure on Israel to stop the bloodshed but only imposes limited diplomatic pressure to respond to calls from the international community. US military aid is key for Israel to continue its attack in Gaza, and as long as the Biden administration maintains the military supplies to Israeli forces, the change of words about diplomatic language won't bring any significant change, experts noted. Mao Ning, a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said at a routine press conference on Monday that "China is closely watching the developments in Rafah. We oppose and condemn acts against civilians and international law. We call on Israel to stop military operations as soon as possible, do everything possible to avoid casualties among innocent civilians and prevent a more devastating humanitarian disaster in Rafah." According to Reuters on Tuesday, 26 EU countries warned Israel on Monday against launching an offensive in Rafah that they said would deepen the catastrophe of some 1.5 million refugees crammed into the city on the southern edge of Gaza. Changing term Under the rising pressure from the international community, the US has also proposed a UN Security Council draft resolution on Gaza calling for a "temporary cease-fire" in the Gaza conflict and warning against an Israeli ground incursion into Rafah, CNN reported on Monday. According to the text of the US-proposed draft, the US is calling for a "temporary cease-fire in Gaza as soon as practicable," which falls short of the wishes of most other Security Council members who want an "immediate cease-fire." The move came after the US signaled it would veto on Tuesday an Algerian-drafted resolution demanding an "immediate humanitarian cease-fire" over concerns it could jeopardize talks between the US, Egypt, Israel and Qatar that seek to broker a "pause in the war" and the release of hostages held by Hamas, Reuters reported on Tuesday. The US, which has traditionally protected its ally Israel from UN actions, has repeatedly resisted calls for a "cease-fire," emphasizing what it claims is Israel's right to defend itself following Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023. It has also voted against at least two Security Council resolutions on the war, CNN reported. Mei Hualong, an expert on Middle East studies at Peking University, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the US did make some changes on its term, "but we still need to pay attention to whether US Congress would pass the bill to provide more aid to Israel." Wang Jin, an associate professor at the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at Northwest University, echoed that "the US does have power to restrain Israel, but it is just reluctant to use it. The military aid is the most important leverage for Washington to impose pressure on the Netanyahu administration, but now the US only wants to impose pressure via the diplomatic channel." As long as the US maintains its military aid to Israel, the change of term about "temporary cease-fire" is meaningless, Mei said. The previous resolutions passed by the UN Security Council have failed to bring sustainable cease-fire, Mei said. "The latest attitude of the Biden administration is like a response to the call from some Democratic Congress members and American voters, but it's too early to say it would bring any significant impact to the Gaza situation." Difference between Israel and US "Israel can't even agree on the term proposed by the US, such as temporary cease-fire," Wang told the Global Times on Tuesday. When the US wants Israel to avoid causing civilian casualties, Israel only cares about forcing Hamas to surrender, and it believes that any call for cease-fire will give Hamas a break and make it more difficult for Israel to achieve a full military victory in Gaza. Israel has threatened to invade Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah by the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins March 10, if the remaining hostages are not released by Hamas, NBC News reported on Tuesday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to "finish the job" in Gaza as cease-fire talks stalled, with Netanyahu instead saying a hostage release "can be achieved through strong military action and tough negotiations." Israel has described Rafah as the last remaining Hamas stronghold in the territory and signaled that its ground offensive may soon target the town on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip, the AP reported on February 13. Israel says about 100 hostages remain in Hamas' captivity after dozens were freed during a cease-fire in November. Analysts said what the US-called "temporary cease-fire" which, based on the agreement of releasing hostages, is not reliable and very difficult to sustain, because once the hostages are all released, the conflict will break out again, and Israel and Hamas have no mutual trust, and the lesson in November 2023 has already proved that the process of hostages and prisoners swap can only happen for a few days. The sustainable peace can only be realized by "immediate cease-fire" rather than a "temporary" one, they said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA monitors Philippines-rallied joint patrol in South China Sea Global Times Vulnerable Filipino, US warplanes put on political show in South China Sea: experts By Liu Xuanzun and Guo Yuandan Published: Feb 20, 2024 07:45 PM The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Monday monitored a Philippines-rallied joint air patrol in the South China Sea, which experts said on Tuesday was a political show aimed at China but had little military significance. In a move to stir up the situation in the South China Sea, the Philippines on Monday rallied a country outside of the region, organized a so-called joint air patrol, and publicized the event, prompting the PLA Southern Theater Command to organize frontline naval and air forces to closely monitor their activities, and the situation was under complete control, the PLA Southern Theater Command said in a statement late on Monday. The troops of the Southern Theater Command maintain high vigilance, resolutely defend national sovereignty, security and maritime rights, and firmly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea, the statement reads. The Southern Theater Command's statement came after the Philippine Air Force announced on Monday that three of its FA-50 light fighter jets and a US Air Force B-52H heavy bomber launched an air patrol "within the country's exclusive economic zone," the Philippine News Agency reported on the day. From a military point of view, the Philippines-US joint air patrol is of little (military) significance, and served as more of a political show, Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, told the Global Times on Tuesday. "While the US' B-52 bomber has strong long-range bombing capability, it lacks maneuverability and self-defense capability, so it requires escorts by fighter jets. But the Philippines' FA-50s are light fighters developed from trainer jets with very limited range. So this combination can only operate very close to the Philippine coast, in an effort to show the two countries' so-called cooperation," Fu said. As a country from outside of the region, the US sending the B-52 to the South China Sea is an attempt to deter China and stir up troubles by instigating the China-Philippines disputes over the islands and reefs, while the Philippines' armed forces are weak so they need a powerful force like the US to support it, Fu said. The latest Philippines-US joint air patrol was part of the third maritime cooperative activities between the two countries that started on February 9, the Philippine report said, noting that the Philippines and the US held the first edition of their joint patrols in November 2023 and the second one in January. Fu said that the Philippines and the US continue to make provocations, but these moves cannot fundamentally change the situation in the South China Sea. "We will closely monitor these so-called joint patrols when they pose little threat. But if our core interests are provoked, particularly over the islands and reefs in the South China Sea, we will surely make countermeasures correspondingly," Fu said. Zhuo Hua, an international affairs expert at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times on Tuesday that while the political show staged by the Philippines is laughable on military terms, such activities are still harmful to regional security in the long run. The Philippines and the US are making their maritime cooperative activities into a mechanism, which means that the Philippines are bypassing regional multilateral security mechanisms, marginalizing the negotiation progress of the Code of Conduct for the South China Sea, taking advantage of US attempts in containing China, and coordinating with forces from outside the region in moves akin to military adventurism, Zhuo said, calling the move a huge hidden danger. "The PLA Southern Theater Command has responded every time the Philippines and the US held joint patrols, which reflects that China has always had full grip over their military provocations which would lead to corresponding countermeasures," Zhuo said. "It also showed the PLA's capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China's special envoy on Afghan affairs urges US to unfreeze Afghanistan assets Global Times By Zhao Yusha and Cao Siqi Published: Feb 20, 2024 07:52 PM China's special envoy on Afghan affairs Yue Xiaoyong once again urged the US to unfreeze the $7 billion Washington holds of Afghanistan's overseas assets and lift its unilateral sanctions. In an interview with the Global Times on Tuesday, Yue emphasized that Washington's aid plan for Afghanistan only scratches the surface and he urged the US to stop avoiding the real challenges facing Afghanistan. Yue's comments came after a two-day international meeting on Afghanistan that ended on Monday in Doha, capital of Qatar. The meeting brought together member states of the United Nations and international envoys to Afghanistan to discuss an array of issues facing Afghanistan. The meeting, chaired by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, was attended by representatives from more than 20 countries and international organizations including China, Russia and the US. The Taliban, the de facto authority in Afghanistan, did not attend. According to the UN chief, the conditions set by the Taliban authorities to attend the meeting were "not acceptable." Yue, who attended the meeting, told the Global Times on Tuesday that it is a pity that dialogue with the Taliban authorities has not been realized so far this year. But there are positives from the meeting, as the conference gathered representatives from those countries to talk about how to address Afghanistan issues. Topics of global concern were also on the agenda, such as fighting terrorism and prevent Afghanistan from becoming a hotbed for terrorism, Yue said. China has always prioritized eliminating the threat of terrorism in neighboring Afghanistan, as it is crucial for China's border security. Therefore, we are pleased that the issue of combating terrorism has received more attention this time, the envoy noted. Guterres said on Monday that international representatives had reached consensus on some key issues concerning Afghanistan after the two-day Doha meeting, but obstacles remain. On the one hand, "Afghanistan remains with a government that is not recognized internationally and in many aspects [is] not integrated into the global institutions and global economy," he said. On the other hand, there is a common international perception of deteriorating human rights, particularly for women and girls in the country, according to Guterres. Yue said China has pointed out that Afghanistan needs to respond to international society's calls for moderate governance and protecting women's rights, along with other issues. "But I believe the first step should be to conduct dialogue," Yue noted. Yue also repeated the call for the US to unfreeze Afghanistan's overseas assets of $7 billion and lift its unilateral sanctions. Yue said that the US-established $3.5 billion aid fund for Afghanistan has so far played little role in helping the country. "Hopefully the US will stop making excuses and start facing the real problems that are facing Afghanistan," Yue said, noting that unfreezing the assets can help Afghanistan's people realize sustainable peace, security, stability and the rebuilding of their homeland. In September 2022, the US announced that it would transfer $3.5 billion in Afghan central bank assets into a new Swiss-based trust fund that will be shielded from the Taliban and used to help stabilize Afghanistan's economy. The Diplomat published an article in October 2023 which reported that more than one year after the fund was created, disbursements hat yet to be made. In contrast, China has done abundant work in helping reconstruct the war-torn country. In April 2023, China released an 11-point paper to fully elaborate its position on the Afghan issue. Moreover, China has attended all four foreign ministers' meetings among neighboring countries of Afghanistan. Yue said that the UN has praised mechanisms such as foreign ministers' meetings among neighboring countries of Afghanistan, and said that these diplomatic efforts have played positive roles in resolving some of the challenges facing Afghanistan. China is ready to work with the neighboring and regional as well as international community to help Afghanistan for its peace, stability and reconstruction, through enhanced engagement and dialogue with mutual respect , Yue noted. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah, Israeli forces exchange fire across Lebanon border IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement and Israeli forces have exchanged fire across the southern Lebanese border as tensions continue to rise over the war in the Gaza Strip. In a series of brief statements on Tuesday, Hezbollah said it targeted several Israeli military positions with rockets in solidarity with the Palestinian people in Gaza. The resistance group reported a rocket strike against the Ruwaisat Al-Alam outpost in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms. It also said that it had struck the Israeli regime's Al-Samaqa military site in the same region. Earlier in the day, Hezbollah targeted the Al-Marj site with "appropriate weapons." The Israeli forces also carried out a series of airstrikes in southern Lebanon, including the village of Kafr Kila. Al Mayadeen TV channel reported that Israeli warplanes targeted the Lebanese town of Blida, damaging two houses. 4353**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Destruction around Gaza's Nasser Hospital "indescribable": WHO IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that the destruction around Gaza's Nasser Hospital is "indescribable". In a statement on Tuesday, WHO said that Nasser Hospital has no electricity or running water, and that medical waste and garbage are creating a breeding ground for disease. The organization cited reports by its staff that described the destruction around the hospital as "indescribable". "The area was surrounded by burnt and destroyed buildings, heavy layers of debris, with no stretch of intact road," the statement said. Palestine's Red Crescent has said that the forces of the Israeli regime are shooting at the third floor of Amal Hospital in western Khan Younis, which has caused fire in two rooms in the southeastern section of the hospital. It added that a delegation from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) are present in the yard of the hospital while the Israeli forces continue to shoot at the aid workers. 9341**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli regime confirms death of another trooper in Gaza war IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- In line with its policy of releasing military casualties gradually, the Israeli regime's army has confirmed the death of yet another soldier in the Gaza Strip. According to Al Jazeera, the Israeli army announced that a member of its Paratroopers Brigade was killed. The paratrooper had been injured in a battle in the southern Gaza Strip and died of his injuries. The death increased the number of Israeli military casualties to 575 since October 7 last year, when the regime started the genocidal war on Gaza. The Israeli regime's army also announced on Monday that one of its officers had been killed in clashes in the southern districts of the Gaza Strip. Since the onset of the Gaza war, some 2,928 Israeli military forces have been injured. The health condition of 447 of these troopers is reported to be critical. Some 774 are in moderate condition and 1,707 are in mild condition. The Israeli regime's army had also reported the death of three officers a few days ago. 4208**4354 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Do not play with fire': Al-Houthi warns EU against Red Sea mission IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- A top member of Yemen's Supreme Political Council Mohammed Ali al-Houthi has called on the European Union not to play with fire amid the start of the EU's naval mission in the Red Sea. In a statement on Monday, the EU announced the beginning of a naval mission dubbed Aspides to protect cargo ships in the Red Sea. Reacting to the move, al-Houthi, in a message on X on Tuesday morning, urged the EU not to play with fire. He stated that international navigation is already safe and there is no need for extra-regional presence in the strategic waterway. "Your presence has increased the militarization of the sea, targeted international navigation, and affected the food supply chain for stores in your countries." The Yemeni armed forces have targeted Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea after their repeated calls on the occupying regime to end its genocidal war on Gaza went unanswered. 7129**4354 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US official confirms downing of drone over Yemen IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- An American official has confirmed the shooting down of an armed drone by the Yemeni army in the sky over the Arab country. "We can confirm that an American Air Force MQ-9 plane crashed on the coast of Hodeidah," the official, who did not want to be named, was quoted by Reuters in the early hours of Tuesday. This American official however said that the US Air Force is investigating the cause of the downing of the drone. A footage showed the wreckage of the downed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) on the shore of the Red Sea. Earlier, the Yemen military claimed to have downed a US-made MQ-9 Reaper attack drone, which it said "was carrying out hostile missions against the country on behalf of the Zionist entity". In November, the Pentagon had acknowledged the shooting down of a similar drone over the Red Sea. The drone came down just hours after the Yemeni army confirmed targeting yet another British cargo ship off the country's west coast. Since the start of the Israeli war on Gaza in October last year, the Yemeni armed forces have been targeting Israeli-bound or owned ships in the Red Sea. But recently, they have hit several American and British vessels in response to the two countries' aggression against Yemen and their support for the ongoing Israeli crimes in the Gaza Strip. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran dismisses US claim of arming Yemen IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 New York, IRNA -- Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani has categorically rejected an accusation levelled by the United States that Tehran has been sending weapons to Yemen. Irvani, in a letter to the head of the Security Council, denied the American claim, saying Iran continues to adhere to resolutions 2140 (2014) and 2216 (2015) and has not carried out any activities contrary to these resolutions, including selling or transferring arms to Yemen. Iran's UN envoy, in the letter, criticized the United States for presenting false information to the Security Council and making baseless accusations against the Islamic Republic regarding the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea. He referred to the claim of the US envoy in a meeting of the Council held on February 14 under the agenda of the situation in the Middle East. "With baseless accusations the US once again abused the podium of the Security Council in order to pursue its short-sighted political agenda", Iravani noted. The full text of the letter by the Iranian envoy to the UN Security Council president is below: Excellency, Further to our letter dated 15 January 2024 (S/2024/64), I would like to respond to yet another baseless allegation made by the representative of the United States against my Country. During the recent session of the United Nations Security Council held on 14 February 2024 under the agenda item of the situation in the Middle East (S/2024/9548), it is deeply regrettable that, once again, the representative of the United States has misused the Security Council platform to advance its short-sighted political agenda by spreading misinformation and baseless accusations against the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea. Iran categorically rejects these baseless allegations, viewing them as a pretext used by the United States to justify and legitimize its illegal actions and military aggression against Yemen. As reiterated in our letter dated 15 January 2024, Iran remains committed to its adherence to Security Council Resolutions 2140 (2014) and 2216 (2015) and has not engaged in any activities in contravention of these resolutions, including the sale or transfer of arms or weaponry systems. Moreover, Iran consistently advocates for the peaceful resolution of the Yemen crisis through diplomatic channels and underscores its dedication to maritime security and freedom of navigation. Once again, Iran unequivocally condemns the US and UK's military aggression and unlawful use of force in Yemen, which flagrantly violates Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity, international law, the UN Charter, and relevant Security Council resolutions, posing a serious threat to regional peace and stability. The invocation of self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter by the US and the UK to justify their illegal actions is misleading and lacks legitimacy under international law. I would be grateful if you would circulate the present letter as a document of the Security Council. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM Netanyahu to Sky Rider Unit Soldiers regarding the UN Security Council Discussion: "No pressure can stop us." Israel - Prime Minister's Office The 37th Government 20.02.2024 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today, at the Zikim Base, visited the IDF Sky Rider Unit. The Prime Minister was briefed by the commander of the unit on its unique abilities and its achievements during the fighting; he also viewed an exhibit of the unit's various tools and capabilities, including the operations system, communications and UAVs. Prime Minister Netanyahu operated a UAV and used it to monitor the skies over Gaza. The Prime Minister spoke with the reservist and conscript soldiers and heard from them about their activity up until now, as well as their readiness to continue fighting. Prime Minister Netanyahu to the soldiers: "There is considerable pressure on Israel at home and abroad to stop the war before we achieve all of its goals, including a deal at any price to free the hostages. We very much want to achieve another release and we are prepared to go far but we are not prepared to pay any price, certainly not the delusional prices that Hamas is demanding of us, the meaning of which is the defeat of the State of Israel. We are committed to continuing the war until we achieve all of its goals: Eliminating Hamas, releasing all of the hostages and ensuring that Gaza never again constitutes a threat to Israel. There is no pressure, none, that can change this." The Prime Minister was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Tzahi Braverman and his Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Avi Gil. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 26 EU countries call for "immediate humanitarian pause" in Gaza People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:03, February 20, 2024 BRUSSELS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-six member states of the European Union (EU) called for an "immediate humanitarian pause that would lead to a sustainable ceasefire" in the besieged Gaza Strip, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said here on Monday. At a meeting of EU foreign ministers, all EU countries except Hungary warned Israel against launching an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which they said would deepen the catastrophe of some 1.5 million refugees crammed into the city. "An attack on Rafah would be absolutely catastrophic ... it would be unconscionable," Ireland's Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said before the meeting. Israel's reported plans for an assault on the city have sounded international alarm bells, with many countries urging restraint or cancelation of the operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rwanda says questions U.S. credibility in mediating peace in Great Lakes region People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:58, February 20, 2024 KIGALI, Feb. 19 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda has said that it questions "the ability of the United States to serve as a credible mediator in the Great Lakes Region." The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said on Sunday that a statement issued by the U.S. Department of State the previous day "fundamentally distorts" realities on the conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The U.S. statement "stands in puzzling contradiction with the substance and tone of the confidence-building process initiated by the U.S. Director of National Intelligence in November 2023, which created a productive framework for de-escalation," the Rwandan foreign ministry statement said. "Rwanda will seek clarification from the U.S. government to ascertain whether its statement represents an abrupt shift in policy, or simply a lack of internal coordination," the statement said. The Rwandan foreign ministry was responding to a U.S. State Department statement on Saturday that "strongly condemns the worsening violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) caused by the actions of the Rwanda-backed, U.S.- and UN-sanctioned M23 armed group, including its recent incursions into the town of Sake." "This escalation has increased the risk to millions of people already exposed to human rights abuses including displacement, deprivation, and attacks," the U.S. statement said. "We call on M23 to immediately cease hostilities and withdraw from its current positions around Sake and Goma and in accordance with the Luanda and Nairobi processes." Goma is the capital of the DRC's North Kivu Province. "The United States condemns Rwanda's support for the M23 armed group and calls on Rwanda to immediately withdraw all Rwanda Defense Force personnel from the DRC and remove its surface-to-air missile systems, which threaten the lives of civilians, UN and other regional peacekeepers, humanitarian actors, and commercial flights in the eastern DRC," the State Department statement said. "We call on the government of the DRC to continue to support confidence-building measures, including ceasing cooperation with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an armed group named as a 'negative force' by regional bodies and the government of the DRC, and which exposes the civilian population to risk," the U.S. statement added. Rwanda, in its statement on Sunday, said it considers the FDLR as a terrorist group whose elements are linked to the 1994 genocide, when about 1 million people, mostly of the Tutsi community and moderate Hutus, were killed by Hutu extremists in a span of 100 days. "It was the U.S. Department of State which in December 2001 added FDLR -- then known as 'ALIR a.k.a. Interahamwe, ex-FAR' -- to the Terrorist Exclusion List under the provisions of the Patriot Act, after the group murdered, and in some cases raped, eight Western tourists in Bwindi, Uganda, including two Americans," the Rwandan foreign ministry statement said. "To characterize this genocidal and terrorist outfit merely as 'an armed group named as a 'negative force' by regional bodies and the government of the DRC' is a shocking and cynical act of realpolitik, which calls into question the ability of the United States to serve as a credible mediator in the Great Lakes Region," the statement said. Rwanda, which has consistently denied accusations that it supports M23 rebels, said the U.S. statement "fundamentally distorts realities" in relation to the conflict in the eastern DRC. It said that ensuring FDLR demobilization and repatriation to Rwanda is "a non-negotiable requirement to protect Rwanda's territorial integrity." Since the first week of this month, amid mass displacements, 15 civilians have been killed and 29 injured following fresh fighting around Goma and Sake town, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said last week. About 135,000 internally displaced persons have fled Sake town to Goma. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines 'stirs up trouble' in South China Sea by holding patrols with US: China Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 10:24 PM China has rebuked the Philippines for its unfriendly maneuvers in the South China Sea, saying Manila "stirs up trouble" by holding joint air patrols with "extraterritorial countries". China's Southern Theater Command said on Monday that the Philippines had "stirred up trouble" in the South China Sea by conducting a joint air patrol with "extraterritorial countries", namely, the United States, and then openly hyping it up. The Chinese command added that it had coordinated with its frontline naval and air forces to closely monitor the Philippines' joint military maneuvers. It said, Chinese troops "maintained a high degree of vigilance to resolutely defend national sovereignty." In 2023, China's military says it monitored and drove away a US warship that had illegally entered waters around the South China Sea. The Chinese military said that the US guided-missile destroyer Milius had illegally intruded into China's territorial waters. Despite the escalated tensions with China, the Filipino forces have started rotating vessels in a disputed South China Sea shoal. On Friday, Manila threatened Beijing saying it would respond to Chinese naval forces' "dangerous" maneuvers. Philippine's Coast Guard and Fisheries Bureau "will maintain professionalism in dealing with any unlawful and provocative behavior" by Chinese vessels in Scarborough Shoal, National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said in a statement released on Friday. The Filipino Coast Guard spokesman, Jay Tarriela, shared Ano's statement on X, formerly Twitter. Late last year, the Filipino Coast Guard released videos purportedly showing Chinese ships blasting water cannons at Philippine boats. Vessels from the two sides also collided during tense clashes at Second Thomas Shoal, where a handful of Filipino troops were stationed on a grounded warship. Following the developments, Beijing urged Manila to make the "rational choice" over the maritime tensions, warning that the bilateral relationship "is now at a crossroads." China has previously criticized the Philippines over what Beijing described as Manila's policy shift, which included, reneging on commitments, continuing to provoke and stir trouble at sea, and undermining China's legal rights. Meantime, China's naval drills coincided with a two-day joint maritime exercise by the US and the Philippines in the South China Sea, which involved an American aircraft carrier strike group comprised of a cruiser, two destroyers and multiple combat aircraft led by the USS Carl Vinson, their second round of drills in the contested waters in less than two months. The Philippines, for its part, deployed four naval vessels, a multi-role helicopter and an anti-submarine helicopter. The US Navy claimed in a statement that the drills would "enhance our ability to coordinate on maritime domain awareness and other shared security interests." According to the Filipinos, the drills took place between the Recto Bank and Scarborough Shoal, where clashes took place in December. Beijing denounced the drills as "provocative military activities" aimed at "flaunting their military might." "We urge relevant countries to stop their irresponsible actions and earnestly respect the efforts of countries in the region to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea," said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, stressing that such military drills were "detrimental to management and control of the maritime situation and related disputes. Also, Beijing will "continue to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," he insisted. In the meantime, under Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputed territories in the South China Sea have escalated, with the Philippines pivoting back to the US, which supports the country in its territorial disputes. China and the United States have held naval drills in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. China's claim of sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea overlaps with the maritime claims of the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei, in addition to, Chinese Taipei. Also, China has constructed several artificial islands over the past few years in the Spratly archipelago in the South China Sea, which is a marginal sea of the Western Pacific Ocean. The move has drawn harsh criticism from the Philippines and the United States. The South China Sea is believed to sit atop vast reserves of oil and gas. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US veto serves Israel's Nazi agenda, Hamas says after Washington blocks ceasefire Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 9:30 PM The Palestinian resistance movement of Hamas condemns "in the strongest terms" the United States' recent vetoing of a draft resolution aimed at bringing about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which is enduring a genocidal Israeli war. The group made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday after the US cast its veto against the draft submitted to the United Nations Security Council by Algeria calling for an "immediate ceasefire" in the coastal sliver and rejecting the regime's "forced displacement" of Gazans. "We consider the failure of this resolution [to be] an obstruction of international will in service to the occupation's Nazi agenda aimed at killing and displacing our Palestinian people," Hamas said. This was the third time the United States was blocking a ceasefire resolution since October 7, 2023, when the regime launched the war against the Gaza Strip in response to al-Aqsa Storm, a surprise operation staged by Gaza's resistance groups against the occupied territories. The regime has simultaneously been employing an all-out siege against Gaza, preventing the flow of water, food, electricity, and medical supplies into the territory. So far, the war has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, and injured about 70,000 others. "[US] President Joe Biden and his administration bear direct responsibility for their obstruction of a resolution to stop the aggression on Gaza," the Hamas' statement added. "The American stance serves as a green light for the occupation to commit more massacres, killing our unarmed people through bombing and starvation, and constitutes direct partnership in the genocide war committed against children and unarmed civilians in the Gaza Strip." In addition to throwing unreserved political support behind the regime, the United States has armed it with more than 10,000 tons of military hardware since the onset of the warfare. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Over 700,000 people could starve to death in north Gaza as Israeli blockade persists, Gaza authorities warn Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 7:14 PM Authorities of the war-torn Gaza Strip have warned that as many as 700,000 people could starve to death north of the Palestinian territory as Israel severely restricts humanitarian aid to the densely populated territory. In a statement on Tuesday, Gaza's Government Media Office warned that more than 700,000 Palestinians in the coastal sliver could perish from deepening starvation as Israel has tightly restricted humanitarian aid to the enclave. It also called on Russia, China, and Turkey, as well as Arab and Muslim nations and "all countries of the free world" to intervene and apply pressure in a bid to put an end to the "genocide and famine" in the Gaza Strip. "We call for an urgent and immediate end to the genocidal war against civilians, women and children as we call for bringing 10,000 aid trucks over the next two days into Gaza. We hold the US administration and the international community additionally to Israel fully responsible for this famine," Gaza's Government Media Office further said. The statement came as the World Food Programme has already announced a halt in its aid deliveries to northern Gaza, arguing that a "breakdown of social order" caused by mass starvation could endanger the lives of its crew in the territory. Despite rampant hunger in the northern part of Gaza, Israel continues to block aid distribution missions in the besieged region, where children are more susceptible to hunger and diseases. According to a recent UN report, around 15 percent of children there under the age of two suffer from malnutrition. Children in Gaza are also suffering the psychological consequences of Israeli bombings while losing their families and belongings as they are suffering from acute shortages of food and water. Furthermore, the UN agencies for children, food and health warned in a joint statement on Monday that at least 90 percent of Gaza children under five are affected by one or more infectious diseases. Separately on Tuesday, the Israeli military ordered the evacuation of the Zaytoun and Turkoman neighborhoods on the southern edge of Gaza City, located north of the Gaza Strip, where children are starving. According to a report by the Global Nutrition Cluster, an aid partnership led by the UN children's agency, UNICEF, over 90 percent of children under five in Gaza eat two or fewer food groups a day, known as severe food poverty. Israel waged a brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after the Hamas-resistant movement carried out its 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 29,092 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 69,028 others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ICJ hearing: Israel 'apartheid' against Palestinians worse than in South Africa Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:42 PM South Africa has told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague that Israel is responsible for apartheid against the Palestinians and its occupation is "inherently and fundamentally illegal". "We as South Africans sense, see, hear and feel to our core the inhumane discriminatory policies and practices of the Israeli regime as an even more extreme form of the apartheid that was institutionalised against black people in my country," said Vusimuzi Madonsela, South Africa's ambassador to the Netherlands, where the ICJ is based. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) held a second day of hearings on Tuesday on the legal ramifications of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories since 1967. Representatives from South Africa, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, Bangladesh, and Belgium presented preliminary arguments. More than 50 states and at least three international organizations will address judges at the United Nations' top court until February 26. South African ambassador to the Netherlands Vusimuzi Madonsela addressed the Hague-based court, saying the Israeli occupation is in breach of International law and UN resolutions. Madonsela said Israel's apartheid against Palestinians must end. He added that Palestinians must be permitted to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination. Israel is applying an even more extreme version of apartheid against Palestinians in the West Bank than South Africa had against Blacks before 1994, he said. "It is clear that Israel's illegal occupation is also being administered in breach of the crime of apartheid... It is indistinguishable from settler colonialism. Israel's apartheid must end," he noted. The ambassador stressed that South Africa, which endured almost five decades of apartheid, another crime against humanity, has a "special obligation" to call out apartheid wherever it occurs and ensure it is "brought to an immediate end." Roberto Calzadilla Sarmiento, Bolivia's ambassador to the Netherlands, told the ICJ that his country considers that continuously depriving and denying the Palestinian people's right to self-determination for 75 years, Israel is in a clear breach of its international obligations. Belize representative Shoman Assad Shoman, a representative of Belize, has told the ICJ that "Palestine must be free". He said Israel's violation of international law with impunity must be stopped. "Israel cannot be permitted to continue flouting one of the most fundamental principles of the international law with impunity. Impunity breeds inhumanity." Belgium's legal expert Vaios Koutroulis focused on Israel's settlement policy and its legal implications. "Belgium condemns the use of violence against the Palestinian population and wishes to highlight Israel's obligations to put an end to violence and bring to justice the perpetrators." Philippa Webb, a law professor at King's College London, took the floor, with her arguments focusing on apartheid and its consequences concerning self-determination. Lawyer Ben Juratowitch argues that the Gaza Strip remains occupied despite the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the removal of settlers in 2005. On Monday, the ICJ started public hearings on the Israeli regime's crimes, which had been requested by the United Nations General Assembly in December of 2022. The World Court was asked to look into the legal consequences of the regime's policies and practices in the occupied Palestinian territories of the West Bank and East al-Quds, as well as in the besieged Gaza Strip. The ICJ hearings are separate from a high-profile case brought by South Africa, according to which Israel is committing genocidal activities in Gaza. The court ruled in the South Africa case in January that Israel must do everything in its power to prevent genocide and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. The Israeli regime has been under mounting international pressure over its savage campaign in the besieged Gaza Strip since early October. But the regime remains reluctant to abide by the ICJ ruling, and has had its bloody campaign going, thanks in large part to the unqualified military and diplomatic support the United States provides to Israel. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen conducts drone operation against 'several' US warships in support of Gaza Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:36 PM Yemen's air force has targeted "several" US warships in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea with a "number of drones." Yemen has conducted operations of that type over the past weeks in a solid display of support for the Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip. Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the spokesman for the Yemeni military, said in a statement on Tuesday that the drone operation targeted "hostile US warships" and "sensitive sites" in the Israeli-occupied Palestinians territories, Yemen's official Saba Net news agency reported. Saree said those sites sit in the city of Umm Rashrash, also known as Eilat, in the southern part of the occupied territories. The Yemeni spokesman said the naval units of the armed forces had carried out an operation targeting the Israeli ship MSC SILVER in the Gulf of Aden "with a number of appropriate naval missiles." "These operations come as a victory for the Palestinian people, who are subjected to aggression and siege until this moment, and in response to the American-British aggression against Yemen," Saree stated. Yemen's armed forces have been targeting Israeli ships and those bound for Israeli ports since November in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza. According to Yemen's al-Masirah television network, the Yemeni armed forces have since November 19, 2023 carried out 30 naval operations, targeting 32 ships, including three ships owned by the Israeli regime, 13 US ships, 6 British ships and 10 ships heading to Israeli ports. Israel has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, and injured some 70,000 others in Gaza since the regime launched its US-backed onslaught on October 7, 2023. Ibrahim Mohammad al-Deilami, the Yemeni ambassador to Iran, said on Sunday that Yemen's armed forces would strike any US and British targets "within the firing range" in response to their recent acts of aggression against Yemen's territory. The pro-Palestine Yemeni operations have prompted some shipping companies to detour around southern Africa to avoid the Red Sea, which normally carries about 12 percent of global maritime trade. The Yemeni army says only Israeli, US and British ships are targeted, asserting that other countries can rest assured of the safety of their cargoes. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel has put regional security at serious risk: Iran's FM Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:22 PM Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian of Iran says the Israeli regime's protracted war on the besieged Gaza Strip has put regional security at serious risk. Speaking in a press conference in the Sri Lankan capital, Colombo, on Tuesday, Amir-Abdollahian said Iran supports any action on the regional and international level aimed at forcing Israel to end its bloody hostilities. The Iranian minister expressed hope that a recent stance adopted by the African Union to condemn Israel would be replicated at other regional and international arenas. More than 29,000 people have been killed since Israel started the deadly war in early October. The brutality has prompted attacks on the interests of Israel and the United States in the region by groups supporting the Palestinian cause. Amir-Abdollahian arrived in Colombo late Monday on an official visit to the Indian Ocean island. The minister held talks with senior government officials of Sri Lanka on Tuesday, including with Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, and President Ranil Wickremesinghe. In the joint press conference with Sabry, the Iranian minister said Tehran and Colombo had agreed to expand relations of cooperation in economy and trade, among other fields. The minister said a 100-megawatt power plant designed and built by Iranian companies would soon open in Sri Lanka. Amir-Abdollahian said President Ebrahim Raeisi may also pay a visit to Sri Lanka in the near future upon an official invitation. Amir-Abdollahian said Sri Lanka had turned into a major tourist destination for Iranian visitors, with some 120,000 tourists from Iran having visited the country in 2023. "We are happy the two countries enjoy strong cooperation in international organizations and communities and support each other's positions," said the Iranian minister. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas chief Haniyeh in Cairo for talks on Gaza situation Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:19 PM The leader of the Hamas resistance movement has arrived in Cairo to hold talks with Egyptian officials about the political situation in the war-torn Gaza Strip amid Israel's genocidal war on the Palestinian territory. In a statement, Hamas said its political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh had arrived in Cairo on Tuesday to "hold discussions with Egyptian officials on the political situation and the situation in the field." According to the statement, Haniyeh and his accompanying delegation would also discuss "efforts to stop the aggression, provide relief to citizens, and achieve the goals of our Palestinian people." Earlier, the Hamas chief had held responsible Tel Aviv for blocking the way to a ceasefire in Gaza. Last week, mediators from Egypt, Qatar and the United States held a flurry of meetings with both Israeli and Hamas negotiators to reach an agreement for a lasting ceasefire in an attempt to halt the daily massacre of Palestinians by the ongoing Israeli military campaign in the Gaza Strip, but all to no avail so far. Israel waged a brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after Hamas carried out its 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 29,092 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 69,028 others. The occupying regime also plans to launch in early March a ground invasion of Rafah, which shelters three-quarters of the displaced Palestinian population in sprawling tent encampments without access to adequate food, water or medicine. Regarding the prospect of a ceasefire in the enclave, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday "The pattern in the last few days is not really very promising." Also on Saturday, Haniyeh once again emphasized Hamas's demands that include a ceasefire, an Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, an end to Israel's years-long blockade of the territory, and safe shelter for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinian civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed some of these demands as "delusional." In a joint assessment published on Monday, the UN agencies for children, food, and health warned that at least 90 percent of Gaza children under five are affected by one or more infectious diseases. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Typical of Washington: US once again vetoes UN resolution for Gaza ceasefire Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:08 PM Unsurprisingly, the United States has once again vetoed a UN resolution that calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Israel's great benefactor used its veto at the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday to block the draft prepared by Algeria. It was the third time Washington has opposed such a resolution since Israel ignited its bloody war machine in Gaza in early October. Representatives of 13 countries at the 15-member Security Council voted in favor of the resolution. Britain abstained. The Palestinian envoy to the United Nations Riyad Mansour condemned the US veto as being "absolutely reckless and dangerous." "The message given today to Israel with this veto is that it can continue to get away with murder," he said in a statement to the Security Council. US says Gaza ceasefire 'wishful and irresponsible' In remarks to the Security Council after the US wielded its veto power, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza was "wishful and irresponsible." She claimed that such an action by the United Nations could stifle diplomatic efforts to broker an agreement between Hamas and Israel for a pause in the war. "Colleagues, over the past few weeks, we have made incredibly clear that the resolution before the council would not achieve the goal of a sustainable peace, and may in fact run counter to it," Thomas-Greenfield said. Before the vote, Amar Bendjama, the Algerian ambassador to the UN, told the Council, "A vote in favor of this draft resolution is support to the Palestinians right to life." "Conversely, voting against it implies an endorsement of the brutal violence and collective punishment inflicted upon them." The US had already threatened it would block the Algerian-proposed resolution. Washington, instead, has been actively pushing for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate the release of Israeli captives held by the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas. Israel's savagery in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas carried out the historic surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupiers. So far, the regime has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, and injured about 70,000 others in Gaza. Washington has since supplied the regime with more than 10,000 tons of military equipment. The United States vetoed similar UN draft resolutions for a ceasefire in October and December. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel hindering rescue missions to Gaza's Nasser hospital: WHO Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 5:06 PM The World Health Organization (WHO) says Israel's military forces are hindering medical rescue missions to the besieged Nasser Hospital, whose condition is "indescribable." The UN health agency issued a statement on social media on Tuesday morning, saying its staff managed to transfer 32 critical patients, including two children, out of the hospital on Sunday and Monday. The transferred patients were moved to other hospitals and to field hospitals in the territory. The regime's forces had denied access to the facility since they took control of the hospital last week. There are still an estimated 130 sick and injured patients and at least 15 doctors and nurses inside the facility, WHO said, warning that the conditions inside are ripe for the spread of disease. "WHO fears for the safety and well-being of the patients and health workers remaining in the hospital and warns that further disruption to life-saving care for the sick and injured would lead to more deaths." The agency's life-saving missions at the besieged complex provided small supplies of essential medicines and food for remaining patients and staff. The hospital in Khan Yunis, one of the last functioning hospitals in the whole territory, in currently in "indescribable" condition. "Nasser Hospital has no electricity or running water, and medical waste and garbage are creating a breeding ground for disease." "The area was surrounded by burnt and destroyed buildings, heavy layers of debris, with no stretch of intact road," said the statement. WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told a press briefing in Geneva that patients were in darkness in the hospital corridors, lit only by flashlights and mobile phones. The statement finished by saying that the health organization "repeats its calls for the protection of patients, health workers, health infrastructure, and civilians." Khan Yunis has been the main target of Israel's ground offensive for weeks. The regime now says its forces will soon raid the overcrowded southernmost city of Rafah. The border town, once declared a "safe zone" by the regime, is currently home to about 1.5 million people who have been forcibly displaced. The regime's military forces have already been bombarding the overcrowded city with airstrikes for weeks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS. Russian authorities have released Azerbaijani national Kamil Zeynalli after briefly detaining him at a Moscow airport pursuant to an Armenian international arrest warrant, his lawyer has said. Kamil Zeynallis lawyer Alekber Garayev told Azeri media that his client is wanted by Armenia under Article 135 (crimes against humanity), 147 (mercenaryism) and 149 (aggression) of the Armenian Criminal Code. Other media reports said Zeynalli is also wanted under Article 140 (war crimes committed through prohibited methods of warfare). The general prosecution of Armenia, however, told Armenpress that they dont have any official information about Zeynallis arrest in Moscow. Zeynalli is on Armenias interstate wanted list, Ministry of Internal Affairs spokesperson Narek Sargsyan told Armenpress. He did not elaborate. The mentioned individual is on the interstate wanted list on a murder charge, he said. Hamas urges international probe into crimes of Israel against Palestinian women Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 3:55 PM The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has called for the opening of an international investigation into the brutal crimes of Israel against the Palestinian women and girls in the besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. Hamas issued a statement on Tuesday, following a latest report by the Special Rapporteurs of the United Nations Human Rights Council that said the Palestinian women and girls have been sexually assaulted and raped by Israeli troops in Gaza and the West Bank. The Special Rapporteurs are independent experts and part of what is known as the Special Procedures of the UN Human Rights Council. They warned Israel that such inhumane acts could "amount to serious crimes under international criminal law," and that those responsible for such crimes must be "held accountable." Hamas said the Special Rapporteurs' report, which documented Israel's blatant human rights violations in Gaza and the West Bank, is "confirmation and additional evidence of the crime of genocide, and the ethnic cleansing committed by the occupation, led by the war criminal Netanyahu and his Nazi army, against our Palestinian people." Outlining incidents of rights abuse of the Palestinians at the hands of Israeli troops, the Gaza-based resistance movement placed a premium on such an investigation. "The types and forms of violations that Palestinian women are subjected to by the occupation army, such as executions, arbitrary arrests, severe beatings, and deprivation of food and medicine during detention, in addition to the threat of rape and insults during interrogation, call for the opening of an international investigation," Hamas said. "This rogue entity and its leaders must be held accountable for their brutal crimes." The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is holding historic hearings into Israel's decades-long occupation of the Palestinian territories, with 52 countries and international organizations expected to give evidence at the world's highest court during a week-long session. Since the Israeli occupation of Palestine in June 1967, the illegal entity has perpetrated a raft of crimes, including killing, displacement, abduction and torture of Palestinians and demolition of their homes. Israel has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, in Gaza since early October. Some 70,000 others have been injured. Providing Israel with an unbridled supply of arms and ammunition since the initiation of the Gaza war, the United States has also vetoed UN Security Council resolutions that called on the regime to cease hostilities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US drafts UN resolution for 'temporary' half to Gaza war after rejecting ceasefire proposal Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 3:34 PM The United States is circulating a counter UN Security Council resolution that would support a temporary ceasefire in Gaza after threatening to veto a draft resolution demanding an immediate halt to Israel's war on the Palestinian territory. The US threatened over the weekend that it would block a resolution, proposed by Algeria, that is expected to be considered on Tuesday. "We don't believe that this Council product will help the situation on the ground," US deputy ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said Monday. The document, prepared by Algeria, "demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties." Instead, the US drafted a resolution, calling for the Security Council to underscore "its support for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practical, based on the formula of all hostages being released." It also warns Israel not to launch a ground offensive in Rafah, Gaza's southernmost town where about 1.5 million people are sheltering from the regime's airstrikes and ground attacks elsewhere in the besieged strip. "The Security Council should underscore that such a major ground offensive should not proceed, under the current circumstances." It is unclear whether or when the US-drafted document will be voted on by the 15-member Security Council. There is no "deadline" for a vote on the American draft, a senior US official said Monday, adding there would be no "rush." While the US-drafted text does include the word "ceasefire," it does not call for the end of hostilities to happen immediately. The US, which holds council veto power, has previously vetoed two drafts in October and December. Russian UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya slammed a possible veto of a UN resolution, saying it is "sad that we cannot come (up) with a ceasefire... and that only one delegation is preventing that." And Chinese representative Jun Zhang said the Security Council has a "moral obligation" to take action "to stop the killings." The administration of President Joe Biden has so far rebuffed calls for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The president has also staunchly supported the regime in its onslaught on Gaza, which has so far claimed the lives of more than 29,000 people, since early October, according to Palestinian authorities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN warns of 'explosion' in Gaza child deaths amid combination of disease, hunger Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 10:40 AM The United Nations has warned that spread of diseases and acute malnutrition could spark an "explosion" in preventable child deaths in the Gaza Strip amid the genocidal Israeli war. In a joint assessment published on Monday, the UN agencies for children, food and health said a "steep rise in malnutrition" among children, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, in Gaza poses grave threats to their health. They added that food and safe water have become "incredibly scarce" while diseases are "rife" in the besieged Palestinian territory. The report also indicated that more than 15 percent of children under the age of two in northern Gaza - one in six - were acutely malnourished, while three percent were suffering from life-threatening severe wasting. "The Gaza Strip is poised to witness an explosion in preventable child deaths which would compound the already unbearable level of child deaths in Gaza," said UNICEF Deputy Executive Director for Humanitarian Action and Supply Operations Ted Chaiban. "We've been warning for weeks that the Gaza Strip is on the brink of a nutrition crisis. If the conflict doesn't end now, children's nutrition will continue to plummet, leading to preventable deaths or health issues." The agencies further warned that "the situation is likely to be even graver today" as the data for their report had been collected in January. At least 90 percent of Gaza children under five are affected by one or more infectious diseases, the analysis said, adding that 70 percent had suffered from diarrhea in the two weeks prior to the assessment, marking a 23-fold increase compared to the 2022 baseline. "Hunger and disease are a deadly combination," said Dr Mike Ryan, Executive Director of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme "Hungry, weakened and deeply traumatized children are more likely to get sick, and children who are sick, especially with diarrhea, cannot absorb nutrients well. It's dangerous, and tragic, and happening before our eyes." The UN assessment also warned that without more humanitarian aid, the nutritional situation in Gaza is likely to continue to deteriorate rapidly and at scale across the Gaza Strip. Israel waged a brutal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out its 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 29,092 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 69,028 others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan's army says makes first major advance in war with RSF Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 10:15 AM The Sudanese Army (SAF) has made its first major advance in 10 months of war with the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), regaining control of part of the key city of Omdurman. The armed forces say they disconnected two main bases in the city, which is considered to be the twin city to Sudan's capital, Khartoum. The RSF, however, claims, "The army has turned to propaganda as it is on the verge of defeat." The group has been fighting the army for control of the North African country since April in a war that has killed thousands of people and displaced eight million amid warnings of famine. The RSF took control of most of the capital Khartoum as well as Omdurman and Bahri. The residents of cities say the group has expelled them from their houses, looted properties and belongings, and raped women. The force is accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing in West Darfur state. Since the start of the year, the army has made gains after it carried a broad campaign of air strikes. The army had suffered numerous setbacks at the hands of the Rapid Support Forces, with some attributing the advances made by the RSF to their "outperforming expectations, their management of logistics over immense distances, local commanders tactically outwitting their opponents, and Emirati support via neighboring Chad." Some say that the army made "military and political errors", warning that they have brought the institution and the Sudanese state to the "edge of an abyss." Harry Verhoeven, Senior Research Scholar at the Center on Global Energy Policy, Columbia University, said in an article run by the Conversation on Monday, "The once mighty Sudan Armed Forces have made military and political errors that have increased the possibility of their disintegration and the collapse of the Sudanese state." "The ongoing civil war could be the trigger of this implosion, but not the underlying cause," the article said. The article said the Sudan Armed Forces' "insistence on autonomy and desire to protect what they perceive to be their legitimate institutional prerogatives fuelled competition with Sudan's other security organs", including the intelligence services and paramilitary militia. Sudan is ruled by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who rose to power as the head of a Transitional Sovereignty Council, composed of military and civilian representatives, after the 2019 ouster of long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir. The military leader seized power in an October 2021 coup, aborting the transition to civilian rule agreed after the 2019 revolution. In January, Burhan turned down reconciliation efforts with the RSF, pledging to carry on the months-long war with the RSF. "The whole world witnessed these rebel forces (RSF) committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in West Darfur and the rest of Sudan," Burhan said, referring to the ethnic cleansing in and around the West Darfur city of El Geneina. Burhan stressed that the RSF "doesn't seek the good for Sudan." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address At least 14 injured in Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanese town Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 8:53 AM At least 14 civilians have sustained injuries when Israeli warplanes hit multiple targets in Lebanon's southern town of Ghazieh with air-to-surface missiles, according to Lebanese military sources. The sources, speaking on condition of anonymously, said Israeli fighter jets launched four airstrikes on Monday on the coastal town, which is located less than five kilometers from the city of Sidon. Two raids targeted the industrial area behind al-Rai private hospital, while another two struck the vicinity of a supermarket. The sources added that the two strikes that targeted the industrial area destroyed a factory that manufactures and assembles electric generators. A tire factory and ten neighboring shops were also severely damaged. The two raids in the vicinity of a supermarket destroyed an iron and aluminum manufacturing factory and damaged six commercial stores, according to the sources. The raids also damaged a house inhabited by several Syrian workers, injuring 12 of them. Meanwhile, two members of the civil defense teams were injured while extinguishing fires caused by the explosion. Israel has been launching airstrikes against Lebanon since the beginning of its onslaught against the Gaza Strip in early October. An Israeli strike knocked down part of a building in the southern Lebanese city of Nabatiyeh on February 14, killing seven members of the same family, including a child, Lebanon's official National News Agency said. A boy initially reported missing was found alive under the rubble. In a separate Israeli attack, a woman and her two children were killed in the village of as-Sawana in southern Lebanon. The Israeli regime launched its devastating hostilities in the Gaza Strip on October 7 after the territory's Hamas-led Palestinian resistance groups carried out a surprise retaliatory attack, dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, against the occupying entity. Israel's raids have resulted in retaliatory strikes from Hezbollah in support of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. The movement has vowed to keep up its retaliatory operations as long as the Tel Aviv regime continues its onslaught on Gaza. The Israeli campaign in Gaza has killed over 29,000 people, most of them women and children. Nearly 70,000 individuals have also been wounded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen warns Europe not to 'play with fire', asserts 'unbreakable' stance Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 7:17 AM A top-ranking Yemeni official has warned the European Union against "playing with fire" after the 27-member bloc launched a naval military mission in the Red Sea. Mohammad Ali al-Houthi, who is a member of Yemen's Supreme Political Council, made the remarks on Tuesday after an attack by Yemeni armed forces sank the UK-registered Rubymar cargo in the Gulf of Aden. "To the Europeans: do not play with fire and learn a lesson from Britain. You need not support the American devil in protecting the Israeli regime so that it can exterminate the people of Gaza with no disturbance," he said in an X post. It followed an announcement of the official launch of the EU naval operation called Aspides ("shield" in ancient Greek) amid Yemen's maritime campaign in solidarity with the Palestinians in the Gaza strip. With a mandate set initially for one year, the mission will send European warships and airborne early warning systems to the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters. Houthi said that the EU mission will increase the militarization of the Red Sea, endanger international navigation, and affect the shipping of food to European countries. Israel waged a US-backed genocidal war on besieged Gaza in October following a historic operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group against the occupying regime. In support of Gaza, Yemeni armed forces have targeted ships going to and from ports in the occupied territories, or whose owners are linked to Israel, in the southern Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden, and even in the Arabian Sea. In response to the pro-Palestine maritime campaign, the US and its allies have bombed Yemen in violation of the country's sovereignty and international law. The illegal attacks prompted Yemen to declare American and British vessels to be legitimate targets for its military. 'US, allies give Israel opportunity to continue Gaza crimes' In an X post on Monday, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, spokesman for Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement, said that the continuation of the US-led strikes on Yemen gives Israel a chance to continue its brutal attacks against the people of Gaza. "The Americans and the British should know that Yemen's position will not change or break, but the country will become stronger and it remains committed to its stance," he asserted. He noted that Yemen's pro-Palestine maritime campaign will continue as long as Israel presses ahead with the Gaza war and refuses to lift the blockade on the Palestinian territory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's UN envoy dismisses 'baseless' US allegations about arms smuggling to Yemen Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 6:49 AM Iran has roundly dismissed as "baseless" US allegations that Tehran is transferring weapons and ammunition to Yemen, stressing that Washington is abusing the Security Council podium to pursue its short-sighted political objectives. Iran's Permanent Ambassador to the United Nations Amir-Saeid Iravani, in a Monday letter addressed to the rotating president of the UN Security Council, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, brushed off the unfounded claims leveled against his country by the Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs of the United States Mission to the United Nations. During the recent session of the United Nations Security Council on February 14, Robert Wood alleged that Iran is enabling and supporting the attacks being carried out by Yemeni naval units against Israeli-affiliated commercial vessels in the Red Sea, and has provided Yemen's Armed Forces with advanced weapons in violation of UN Security Council Resolutions 2140 and 2216. "It is deeply regrettable that, once again, the representative of the United States has misused the Security Council platform to advance its short-sighted political agenda by spreading misinformation and baseless accusations against the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea," Iravani wrote in the letter. He underscored that Iran categorically rejects such baseless allegations, and regards them as a pretext used by the United States to justify and legitimize its illegal actions and military aggression against Yemen. "Iran remains committed to its adherence to Security Council Resolutions 2140 (2014) and 2216 (2015) and has not engaged in any activities in contravention of these resolutions, including the sale or transfer of arms or weaponry systems. "Moreover, Iran consistently advocates for the peaceful resolution of the Yemen crisis through diplomatic channels and underscores its dedication to maritime security and freedom of navigation," the senior Iranian diplomat pointed out. Iravani also noted that Iran unequivocally condemns the US and British airstrikes against Yemen, stating the attacks flagrantly violate Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity, international law, the UN Charter as well as relevant Security Council resolutions, and pose a serious threat to regional peace and stability. The US and the UK have been carrying out strikes against Yemen after the Joe Biden administration and its allies offered the Tel Aviv regime unqualified support and said that Yemeni forces bear the consequences of their attacks against Israeli-owned ships or merchant vessels heading to the occupied territories. Yemenis have declared their open support for Palestine's struggle against the Israeli occupation since the regime launched a devastating war on Gaza in October after the territory's Palestinian resistance movements carried out a surprise retaliatory attack, dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, against the occupying entity. Yemeni Armed Forces have said that they won't stop their attacks until unrelenting Israeli ground and aerial offensives in Gaza, which have killed over 29,000 people and wounded nearly 70,000 individuals, come to an end. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Feb. 19: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 6:19 AM By Press TV Exclusive Amid Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians so far, including at least 13,000 children, 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 Monday, February 19, are as follows: Qassam Brigades' operations on Feb. 19: Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli troops in southern Gaza's Khan Younis, dispelling the claim that Hamas' military wing has been defeated there. Sniped at least two Israeli soldiers and engaged in clashes with their infantry force west of Khan Younis city, causing casualties. Targeted an Israeli infantry force of 15 officers and soldiers, holed up inside a house west of Khan Younis city, with anti-armor and anti-personnel RPG shells, resulting in casualties. In a joint operation with the Al-Mujahideen Brigades, targeted an Israeli military Hermes-900 drone with a SAM-7 shell southwest of Gaza City. Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Feb. 19: Shelled Israeli forces in the "Netzarim" area northeast of Gaza with a 107mm rocket barrage. Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades' operations on Feb. 19: Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli soldiers with their vehicles using machine guns and RPGs in the western axis of Khan Younis city, southern Gaza. Hezbollah's operations on Feb. 19: Eastern sector: At around 16:15 local time, the Ramta site in Shebaa was targeted with missiles. At around 16:25 local time, the Al-Sammaqa site in Shebaa was targeted with missiles. Western sector: At around 15:45 local time, the Birkat Risha site was targeted with appropriate weapons. Yemeni military's operations on Feb. 19: Targeted two US ships 'Sea Champion' and 'Navis Fortuna', heading toward occupied territories, in the Gulf of Aden. Targeted a British ship with anti-ship missiles in the Red Sea, causing it to sink completely. Shot down a sophisticated US MQ-9 drone in the skies of Hodeidah with an appropriate missile. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 26 EU members warn against Israel's 'catastrophic' invasion of Rafah Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 2:12 AM Nearly all member states of the European Union have warned the Israeli regime against going ahead with its planned ground invasion of the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, which is packed with Palestinian refugees. The warning came in a joint statement issued by 26 of the bloc's foreign ministers at the end of their Monday meeting. Only Hungary did not join in. The statement asked the regime "not to take military action in Rafah that would worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian situation and prevent the urgently needed provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance." The regime has been waging a genocidal war against Gaza since last October following Operation al-Aqsa Storm by the coastal territory's resistance groups against the occupied territories. More than 29,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have lost their lives in the regime's brutal military onslaught, which has left over 69,000 others injured. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the Israeli military to evacuate civilians from Rafah ahead of a planned ground operation, despite the fact that the city is now hosting around 1.5 million Palestinian refugees. The EU statement called for "an immediate humanitarian pause that would lead to a lasting ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the provision of humanitarian assistance" to the people in Gaza. Meanwhile, the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said, "We have to continue putting pressure on Israel to make them understand that there are so many people in the streets of Rafah, [and] it will be impossible to avoid civilian casualties." "This, certainly, will be against the respect of humanitarian law," he added. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, likewise, called on Israel to respect humanitarian law. Saying that "over a million people went to the south of Gaza" because the Israeli military "told them so," she added, "They can't just disappear in the sky." Before the ministerial meeting convened, Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said, "An attack on Rafah would be absolutely catastrophic...it would be unconscionable." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban's Boycott Of Key UN Meeting A Blow To Hopes Of Increased Engagement By Abubakar Siddique and RFE/RL's Radio Azadi February 20, 2024 The Taliban boycotted a United Nations-sponsored conference on Afghanistan, the first time the extremist group was invited to participate in a major international event since it seized power in 2021. The group's refusal to attend the February 18-19 conference in Qatar is seen as a blow to the hopes of the international community to improve dialogue with the Taliban government, which remains unrecognized and is under sanctions. The two-day event brought together representatives of member states, special envoys to Afghanistan, and Afghan civil society members, including women. The conference came amid a standoff between the Taliban and the international community. Since regaining power, the hard-line Islamists have monopolized power, committed gross human rights abuses, and severely curtailed the freedoms of Afghan women. The international community has called on the Taliban to reverse its repressive policies and create an inclusive government, which the extremist group has refused. "One of our main objectives is to overcome this deadlock," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on February 19, adding that "the concerns of the international community" and "the concerns of the de facto authorities of Afghanistan" both need to be taken into account. While the world body has left the door open for the Taliban to participate in future UN-sponsored meetings, observers said it is unclear if the Taliban and the international community can increase engagement and bridge their differences. 'Unacceptable' The Taliban set conditions for its participation in the Doha conference, including that it be the sole representative of Afghanistan at the meeting. The UN chief said the group's demands were "unacceptable" and amounted to recognizing the Taliban as the country's legitimate government. The Taliban has also opposed the appointment of a UN special envoy to Afghanistan, one of the key issues discussed at the Doha meeting. One of the envoy's main tasks would be to promote intra-Afghan dialogue. The Taliban's Foreign Ministry, in a statement issued ahead of the meeting, accused the international community of "unilateral impositions, accusations, and pressurization." Javid Ahmad, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington, said the group wants to engage with the international community on "Taliban-owned terms without having to entertain negotiations that could challenge their grip on power." Ahmad said the Taliban was keen to avoid being "pigeonholed by the engagement community into unwanted conference outcomes without prior discussions, which would undermine their authority as rulers." That, experts said, would explain the Taliban's opposition to the appointment of a UN special envoy for Afghanistan, an international interlocutor who would be tasked with promoting dialogue between the extremist group and exiled opposition political figures. Since seizing power, the Taliban has sidelined many ethnic and political groups as well as women. The Taliban's theocratic government appears to have little support among Afghans. "Problems will persist as long as these issues are not addressed," Ali Ahmed Jalali, a distinguished professor at the National Defense University in Washington, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. "The appointment of the UN special envoy will mean that the Taliban government is downgraded from a government to a group." 'Categorical Answer' Most of the international community's dialogue with the Taliban has been through its ministers in Kabul and its diplomats in Qatar, where the group maintains a political office. But experts said the Taliban's spiritual leader, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, and his key confidants, all of whom are senior clerics, have the real decision-making authority in the group. The reclusive Akhundzada, a hard-line cleric who rarely leaves the southern Afghan city of Kandahar, has the ultimate say on all important matters under the Taliban's clerical system. "The Taliban diplomats will keep the door open," said Anders Fange, a Swedish aid worker who worked for the UN in Afghanistan. "But the people down in Kandahar will give you a more categorical answer." Fange said international pressure on the Taliban is unlikely to work given the fundamentalist views of its leadership. "The Taliban sees itself as only answerable to Allah and not the people of Afghanistan and even less to the international community," he added. International Divisions One of the key aims of the Doha conference was to reach a consensus among member states on how to deal with the Taliban. But that has been complicated by Afghanistan's neighbors, as well as Russia and China, who have forged ties with the Taliban. At the Taliban's request, the Russian delegation that participated in the Doha meeting refused to meet the Afghan civil society representatives. China's special envoy to Afghanistan, who was in Doha, meanwhile called on Washington to unfreeze some $7 billion in Afghan central bank reserves held in the United States, a move that Beijing has said will allow the Taliban to address the devastating humanitarian and economic crises in Afghanistan. If the West does not engage with the Taliban, it risks "being entirely without influence" in Afghanistan, said Fange. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-taliban-united- nations-meeting-engagement-boycott/32827908.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 YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS. EU Civilian Operations Commander Stefano Tomat has described the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) activities as impressive and said that he is proud of the work that has been done during its 1st year. I am sure that the EU monitoring mission is bringing important contribution to Armenia and the region, which symbolizes the EUs involvement for peace and stability, Tomat said at an event dedicated to the 1st anniversary of EUMA. The number of border incidents decreased during the past year, and we can conclude that the EU monitoring mission has had its contribution in this positive development. But there are still challenges. The recent disinformation campaigns targeting EUMA underscore the difficult environment where the EU mission works. And in this sense, Id like to reiterate our words of gratitude to EU member states for their support to the mission, he added, noting that EUMA aims at building trust and doesnt have aggressive goals. EU Mission in Red Sea Will Be Led by Italy, France, Greece - Hungarian Foreign Minister Sputnik News 20240220 BUDAPEST (Sputnik) - The EU naval mission to protect navigation in the Red Sea from Yemen's Houthi movement will be led by Italy, France and Greece, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Monday. Earlier on Monday, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that the European Union approved the launch of the Aspides military operation, with Italy set to take over the command of the forces. "Today it was decided that we are launching an EU maritime mission ... This will be a mission led by Greece, Italy and France, called Aspides; its budget for the first year is limited to 8 million euros [$8.6 million]," Szijjarto told Hungarian reporters after the EU Foreign Affairs Council. Hungary supports the launch of the operation and expects that the United States and the United Kingdom will closely cooperate with the EU countries during the mission, the minister added. Szijjarto also proposed that part of the funds from the European Peace Facility be used to strengthen the protection of Yemen's coastline. The Houthi movement, which controls large parts of northern and western Yemen, vowed in November 2023 to attack any ships associated with Israel until it halts military actions in the Gaza Strip. This led US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to announce the creation of a multinational operation to secure navigation in the Red Sea. US and UK forces later launched major strikes against Houthi positions in a bid to degrade the rebels' ability to target commercial vessels. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK is deeply concerned at the worsening violence in eastern DRC: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Deputy Political Coordinator Thomas Phipps at the UN Security Council meeting on DRC. 20 February 2024 Thank you, President, let me begin by thanking SRSG Keita for her comprehensive briefing today and for the ongoing and important work of MONUSCO and the bravery and commitment of its peacekeepers. I'd like to make four points today regarding the situation in DRC. First, let me express the United Kingdom's deep concern at the worsening violence in eastern DRC. We condemn in the strongest terms the UN-sanctioned M23 armed group's continued advance. We call on external actors to end their support for violent armed groups in DRC, including M23. We encourage all parties to use their influence over the armed groups in eastern DRC to de-escalate tensions and to deliver a cessation of hostilities. Second, let me join SRSG Keita in emphasising the importance of diplomatic dialogue, including through the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes. Its vital that parties meaningfully engage with these and take steps to de-escalate tensions, and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. Third, we note that UN peacekeepers are facing an increasingly dangerous environment. We urge parties to respect the Mission's freedom of movement and we reiterate our condemnation of the recent attack on a MONUSCO helicopter in early February. Any attacks on civilians, MONUSCO peacekeepers, UN offices and diplomats are unacceptable. We support efforts to counter mis- and disinformation, which is detrimental to our collective efforts to support peace and reach a diplomatic solution. Finally, I want to express the United Kingdom's deep concern at the worsening humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. Violence will just lead to further violence and pose a risk to regional security and stability. We urge all combatants, including regional forces, to respect international humanitarian law and to take active measures to reduce risks to civilians. Dialogue is key and we urge all parties to come back to the table. Thank you President. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The UK is calling for an immediate suspension in fighting to get aid in and hostages out of Gaza: UK statement at the UN Security Council Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza. 20 February 2024 Thank you President, we want to see the fighting in Gaza end as soon as possible in a way that never again allows Hamas to carry out the appalling terrorist attacks against Israel we saw on the 7th of October last year. Palestinian civilians are facing a devastating humanitarian crisis. We are particularly worried about the situation in Rafah, where a military operation could have appalling consequences for civilians sheltering there with nowhere else to go. Ongoing negotiations are critical to secure the release of the hostages held in Gaza. We are calling for an immediate suspension in fighting to get aid in and hostages out, leading to a permanent, sustainable ceasefire. That means the release of all hostages; the formation of a new Palestinian Government for the West Bank and Gaza, accompanied by an international support package; removing Hamas's capacity to launch attacks against Israel; Hamas no longer in charge of Gaza; and, a political horizon which provides a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution. President, we welcome the efforts of our Algerian colleagues on this resolution, and we regret that some of our proposals were not taken on board. Simply calling for a ceasefire as this resolution does, will not make it happen. Indeed, as it could endanger the hostage negotiations, it could actually make a ceasefire less likely. The way to stop the fighting, and potentially stop it from restarting, is to begin with a pause to get hostages out and aid in, that is what we are calling for. It could end the fighting now. We will continue to work to stop fighting. A humanitarian response at scale. The release of all hostages. And the delivery of the two sovereign states of Israel and Palestine that ensures peace, security and justice for both nations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US vetoes Algerian resolution demanding immediate ceasefire in Gaza 20 February 2024 - The UN Security Council met in New York on Gaza on Tuesday, where the United States vetoed a resolution put forward on behalf of Arab States by Algeria demanding "an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties". 12:22 PM The latest Council meeting on the Middle East crisis spiralling outwards from the war in Gaza has ended, with another US veto and an abstention on the part of the UK, while Algeria's resolution gained support from 13 out of the 15 members around the iconic horseshoe table. Here are the key points: HIGHLIGHTS US uses veto power to quash Algeria's draft resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and presents rival text that would condemn Hamas but also support a temporary ceasefire Council members lament continued suffering in Gaza and lambast possible Israeli military operation into Rafah Algeria's ambassador says it will continue to "knock at the Council's door" to maximize pressure on Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire which will end the bloodshed "This veto does not absolve Israel of its obligations," says the ambassador for the observer State of Palestine A ceasefire would be "a death sentence", for Israelis and ordinary Gazans alike, says Israel's ambassador Qatar's ambassador, speaking for the Gulf Cooperation Council, says her delegation will continue its facilitating efforts to free all hostages, protect civilians and secure a ceasefire For full summaries of this and other UN meetings, visit our colleagues at UN Meetings Coverage in English and French 12:02 PM Qatar: Gaza is 'worst humanitarian disaster the world has seen' Qatar's Ambassador Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani speaking on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council, called on the UN to assume its responsibilities and condemn the Israeli threat of unleashing its military operation in Rafah. More than a million displaced are sheltering there with nowhere else to run to. "We are living the worst humanitarian disaster the world has ever seen," she said. "We also condemn the forced displacement of civilians and regret the suspension of the financing of UNRWA," she said. For its part, Qatar will continue its facilitating efforts to free all hostages, to protect civilians in Gaza and to secure a ceasefire. "We regret the failure of Security Council to adopt the resolution submitted by Algeria," she said. 11:49 AM Ceasefire would be a 'death sentence': Israel Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the Council has repeatedly met on the same flawed theme: the demand for a ceasefire. This "silver bullet" would only achieve the survival of Hamas, he said, and be a "death sentence" for Israelis and Gazans. Hamas will continue to spill the blood of innocents. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) rightly rejected South Africa's attempt to implement a ceasefire. "A ceasefire is the epitome of a kick the can down the road" approach which will provide nothing but immunity for baby killers and rapists, allowing Hamas to regroup and re-arm, he said. 'Condemn Hamas as a Council' Recalling footage of a family taken to Gaza alive as hostages, he asked why the Council would want to leave them in the enclave. The draft resolution, if adopted, would have ensured that this family and more than 100 other people remained in captivity. Ambassador Erdan said not once since 7 October has the Council condemned Hamas. "Condemn Hamas as a Council; do it for the sake of the hostages," he said. At the same time, "the clock is ticking" with regards to Lebanon, he continued, recalling that a Hezbollah drone was downed deep inside Israel. Nearly 100,000 Israeli residents in the north have been displaced, with the help of Iran. The Houthis are relentlessly attacking ships in the Red Sea, and "terrorist aggression" across the region must stop, he argued. 11:34 AM 'Deplorable consequence of inaction': Palestine Riyad H. Mansour, Ambassador and Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine, said the Algerian-led draft resolution was brought to the Council "precisely" because Israel persists with its onslaught "despite near unanimous" calls by the international community for a ceasefire. He recalled the ICJ provisional measures ordering Israel to cease all acts of genocide, incitement of genocide and ensure humanitarian access to the Palestinian people, who are facing death, starvation and repeated forced displacement "every day" across Gaza. "It has been nearly three weeks since I last addressed the Council following the court's order, appealing for action to be taken to ensure the implementation of the provisional measures and ensure a ceasefire that would protect the Palestinian people and avert further ravaging of their lives by the Israeli onslaught," he said. "But, our appeals have, regrettably, been to no avail," he added, noting that since that day, the toll has risen from 26,000 Palestinians killed to almost 30,000 - with more than 69,000 injured. "This means that in just the past 20 days alone, Israel has killed nearly 4,000 more Palestinian children, women and men, in just 20 days. This is a deplorable consequence of inaction," he stated. 'Life a living hell' Mr. Mansour said that Palestine together with an "unprecedented" number of countries approached the ICJ to "confront the Israeli impunity that has made life a living hell for Palestinian people". Together, they appealed for "an immediate and complete end to this illegal colonial occupation and apartheid regime, the root cause of all the ills our people are suffering, including this genocidal war", he said, noting that the ICJ acted swiftly both on the case brought forward by South Africa and the request for an advisory opinion by the General Assembly. He questioned when the Security Council would "finally undertake its solemn duties" and act to demand the ceasefire that the vast majority of the world wants to see. "The veto of this draft resolution is not only regrettable ... but also absolutely reckless and dangerous, again shielding Israel even after it commits the most shocking crimes while exposing millions of innocent Palestinian people to more untold horrors," he said. 11:20 AM 'We will never tire, and we will never stop': Algeria Algerian Ambassador Benjama said the draft calls for a ceasefire, but the Council has failed once again to rise to the calls and aspirations of the people of the world. This failure does not absolve the Council of its mandate and the international community of its obligations, he said. "It is high time for the aggression to end" and for humanitarian assistance to reach all those in need across Gaza, he said. The current situation requires everyone to provide protection to the Palestinian people and put an end to the historic injustice they have suffered, he declared. The people of his region have always looked to the Security Council, however, it has failed them once again. "Our message for you today is that the international community should respond to the calls for ending the killing of Palestinians by calling for an immediate ceasefire," he said. "All those impeding such calls should review their policies and calculations because wrong decisions today will have a cost on our region and our world tomorrow. This cost will be violence and instability." Knocking on the door Algeria will return tomorrow on behalf of the Arab world, of Muslim countries and the free people of the world, "powered by the souls of thousands of innocent people" killed by the Israeli occupation with no accountability whatsoever, he said. "Algeria will return to knock on the doors of the Security Council once again to put an end to the bloodshed," he said. "We will not stop until this Council shoulders its responsibility in full and imposes an immediate ceasefire. We will never tire, and we will never stop." 11:15 AM 'Not in the mood to give up': Russia Russian Ambassador Nebenzia said "today, we have witnessed another black page in the history of the Security Council". It was again written by the US delegation, he continued, which pursues the same goal - to cover up on behalf of its closest Middle Eastern ally and play for time so that it can complete its "inhumane plans" for Gaza, namely to squeeze the Palestinians out of the Strip and completely "cleanse" the enclave. Full responsibility for the consequences falls on Washington, no matter how hard the US tries to evade it by talking about its "important mediation efforts", he said. No matter how bitter the "aftertaste" of today's vote may be, "we are not in the mood to give up", he said, adding that the Council's demand to the parties for an immediate ceasefire remains an imperative. 11:07 AM Sierra Leone: Council is mandated to act Sierra Leone's Ambassador Michal Imran Kanu said his delegation voted in favour of the draft because it is imperative to have an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, and the Council is mandated to act promptly and effectively. Some Council members had visited both the Rafah crossing and Israel, and the assessment has been that only such a ceasefire will put an end to the unbearable killings going on inside Gaza and certainly the "looming and unthinkable catastrophe" in Rafah. 11:02 AM UK calls for 'immediate suspension' of fighting UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward called for an "immediate suspension in fighting" which can lead to a permanent sustainable ceasefire, saying Palestinian civilians are facing a "devastating humanitarian crisis". She said there needed to be a new government for Gaza and the West Bank alongside the removal of Hamass capacity to launch attacks against Israel. Hamas should no longer be in charge in Gaza and a credible political horizon should be opened to pave the way to a lasting two-State solution. "Simply calling for a ceasefire, as this resolution does, will not make it happen." She said as it could endanger hostage negotiations and could actually make a permanent ceasefire less likely. The way to stop the fighting is through the release of all hostages. She said the UK would continue to work for a humanitarian response "at scale". 10:56 AM Council must speak out on Hamas attacks: Japan Japanese Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki said "a humanitarian ceasefire needs to be realized promptly in such a way as to ensure a conducive environment for sufficient humanitarian assistance activities as well as to lead to the release of the remaining hostages." Only then could there be a sustainable ceasefire. "Based on this position, we call on all the parties concerned to act immediately from a humanitarian viewpoint," he said. In efforts to ensure a more fair and balanced text, the resolution should have included a condemnation of Hamas's terrorist attacks, which the Security Council has so far failed to do. "Though we couldn't agree on a resolution which all the Council members can support, we are all engaging seriously to stop the violence," he said. 10:50 AM Mozambique urges Council to achieve peace The Ambassador of Mozambique, Pedro Comissario, said parties must comply with international humanitarian law, including in protecting civilians. "We call for full compliance with the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice and firmly oppose the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, especially women and children," he said. "We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and urge the international community and the Security Council to continue working tirelessly together towards achieving peace in the region based on a two-State solution," he added. 10:45 AM France: Council must act without further delay Nicholas de Riviere, the Ambassador of France, regretted to note that the draft resolution could not be adopted, given the catastrophic situation on the ground. "There is an extreme urgency to conclude, without further delay, an agreement on a ceasefire which finally guarantees the protection of all civilians and the massive entry of emergency aid," he said. "The human toll and humanitarian situation in Gaza are intolerable, and Israeli operations must end," he stressed. It is also incomprehensible and unacceptable that this Council has still not condemned the terrorist acts committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October, he said, as well as the sexual violence used as weapons of war by these terrorists. "We strongly deplore this and call for the Council to quickly emerge from this culpable ambiguity," he said. 10:40 AM China: Veto sends wrong message Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun said the use of the veto by the US sends the wrong message, pushing Gaza further into crisis at a time when Palestinians are struggling on the brink of death. It is totally untenable of the US to argue that the draft jeopardizes ongoing talks. Meanwhile, the violence is destabilizing the entire region, and the Council must act quickly to stop the carnage, he said. The Council must uphold international order and demand a ceasefire, which is its legal responsibility. The Council must not stop its work because of the veto, he said, calling on the international community to give Palestinians a chance to live and to provide justice. 10:35 AM Speaking after the vote, US Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said her delegation is willing to engage constructively with Council members on her delegation's draft resolution. 10:33 AM Resolution vetoed by US The resolution has failed to be adopted due to a veto by the United States. The voting was 13 in favour, 1 abstention (the UK) with the US voting against. 10:27 AM Russia: US is giving Israel 'a license to kill' Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Washington continues to provide Israel with "a license to kill". Algeria organized discussions in good faith to produce its draft resolution, but the US in effect issued an ultimatum, asserting that the draft was dangerous as it would obstruct ongoing talks. Indeed, Washington continues to insist the Council not interfere in the US plans, he said. The US has vetoed similar draft resolutions in the past. "We call on the Council membership to counter the lawlessness of Washington," he said. "Public opinion will no longer forgive the Security Council for inaction." 10:20 AM US offers alternative draft resolution US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said her delegation is working on a hostage deal. Although gaps remain, the key elements are on the table, so if an arrangement were reached, it would involve a sustainable peace. "Sometimes hard diplomacy takes more time than any of us might like," she said. "Any action this Council takes should help and not hinder these sensitive ongoing negotiations." This draft will not bring about a durable peace, but instead extend the hostages' captivity and the humanitarian crisis. "While numerous parties engage in sensitive negotiations, this is not the time for this resolution, which jeopardizes these efforts," she said, adding that numerous edits her delegation suggested were ignored. That's why the US is proposing a separate resolution that would work towards a temporary ceasefire based on the formula that all hostages are released. It is time this Council condemns Hamas, she said. Should the US draft be adopted, it would be the first time the Council condemned Hamas, as well as called against any forced displacement of Gazans and that a major ground offensive in the enclave would not proceed. The draft would also reiterate the US vision of a two-State solution and would support both the ongoing negotiations and lay the groundwork for peace in the region, Ms. Thomas-Greenfield said. "We're at a pivotal and critical moment," she said, citing ongoing suffering and rising humanitarian needs. "Let us commit to do this the right way at the right time." Following the Council meeting, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield went to the stakeout to flesh out the US position on its new draft resolution. "We intend to do this the right way so that we can create the right conditions for a safer, more peaceful future", she told journalists, promising to actively engage in the hard work of direct diplomacy:. You can watch her full remarks here: 10:15 AM This draft stands for truth, Mr. Benjama said. "A positive vote for the draft brings hope for hundreds of thousands of children to return to school and enjoy the right to education. Conversely, voting against the draft resolution is a vote in favour of annihilating their dream for a better life." The international community must act swiftly, as the value of a ceasefire diminishes with each moment, he stated. "We are rapidly approaching a critical juncture where the call to halt the machinery of violence will lose its significance," he said. "Today, every Palestinian is a target for death, extermination and genocide. Each one of us decides on where to stand in this tragic chapter of history." 10:07 AM Time for action and truth: Algeria The Permanent Representative from Guyana is presiding. Her country holds the presidency for the month. Amar Benjama, Algeria's Ambassador, is introducing his country's resolution, saying it was a product of extensive discussions. He said the Council "cannot afford passivity" in the face of what is unfolding in Gaza, adding that it must follow its mandate and demand an immediate ceasefire. "Throughout this process we have heard calls to give time to a parallel track, with concerns raised that any action from the Council would jeopardize these efforts, however, almost one month after the ICJ orders, signs of hope are still absent for improvement on the situation in Gaza. Silence is not a viable option. Now is the time for action and the time for truth," he said. 09:30 AM: Tabled by Algeria, the draft resolution would also have the Council reiterate its demand that all parties scrupulously comply with their obligations under international law regarding the protection of civilians. Threat of veto looms The Council needs at least nine votes to be able to adopt the draft resolution. Media reports indicate that the United States may veto it, as it has publicly said it would referring to earlier drafts during this weeks-long negotiating process. The term "ceasefire" has been contentious, with the US having vetoed a previous draft resolution late last year tabled by the United Arab Emirates. If this happens again today, the General Assembly would again organize an emergency special session through a mechanism set up following an initiative by Liechtenstein to examine the use of veto, which is a privilege of the Council's five permanent members - China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and the United States. Algeria's draft on the table today would have the Council reject the "forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population in violation of international law and would demand an immediate end to any such violations and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages". It would, among other things, call for unfettered humanitarian access into and throughout Gaza. The Council has held more than a dozen meetings on the war in Gaza, including an open debate in late January, with more than 70 UN Member States voicing serious concerns about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. Many called on the Security Council to "work harder" to end the war, which began in October when Israeli invaded the enclave in response to Hamas's attacks that left 1,200 dead and 240 taken hostage. To date, almost 30,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to local health authorities. The US has reportedly circulated a rival resolution that would for the first time, support a temporary ceasefire in Gaza. It calls for a halt to the fighting "as soon as practicable" and requires the release of all hostages seized by Palestinian militants during the 7 October terror attacks in southern Israel, according to news reports. Here are some highlights from the previous Council meeting focused on Gaza on 23 January: HIGHLIGHTS Israel's "clear and repeated rejection" of the two-State solution "is unacceptable", said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, adding that "this refusal, and the denial of the right to statehood to the Palestinian people, would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security." Council members roundly called for the two-State solution to be realized and for an end to the war, with many calling for an immediate ceasefire to end the suffering of Palestinians and allow the aid they urgently need to be delivered unhindered Many speakers from the wider UN membership echoed those calls "Stop this massacre," said the Deputy Prime Minister of Jordan "We are running out of time. There are two choices: a spreading fire or a ceasefire," said the Foreign Affairs Minister for the Observer State of Palestine Israel's Ambassador said if the Council continues to provide aid to Gaza without considering the Iranian threat, the world faces "a very dark future" NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gazans 'hanging by a thread', warns WFP 20 February 2024 - The UN emergency food relief agency (WFP) warned that Gaza is "hanging by a thread", calling for urgent access to allow it to reach the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians on the verge of famine. In a statement, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said it has reluctantly had to pause aid deliveries to north Gaza until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions. "The decision to pause deliveries to the north of the Gaza Strip has not been taken lightly, as we know it means the situation there will deteriorate further and more people risk dying of hunger," the agency said. It added that it is "deeply committed" to urgently reaching desperate people across the war-torn enclave "but the safety and security to deliver critical food aid - and for the people receiving it - must be ensured". In December, the UN and humanitarian partners had warned of the risk of famine in northern Gaza by May unless conditions there improved decisively. The situation is particularly dire for children, pregnant women and new mothers, with one in six children acutely malnourished. 'Facing gunfire and explosive anger' WFP said that its deliveries to northern Gaza had resumed on Sunday after a three-week suspension following the strike on an UN Palestine relief agency (UNRWA) truck and due to the absence of a functioning humanitarian notification system. On Sunday, as one of its convoys moved towards Gaza City, it was surrounded by crowds of hungry people close to the Wadi Gaza checkpoint. "First fending off multiple attempts by people trying to climb aboard our trucks, then facing gunfire once we entered Gaza City, our team was able to distribute a small quantity of the food along the way," the UN agency said. On Monday, the second convoy's journey north faced "complete chaos and violence" due to the collapse of civil order, WFP added, noting that several trucks were looted between Khan Younis and Deir al Balah and a truck driver was beaten. "The remaining flour was spontaneously distributed off the trucks in Gaza city, amidst high tension and explosive anger." Urgent effort to restore aid In the statement, WFP emphasized that it will seek ways to resume deliveries in a responsible manner as soon as possible. It underscored the need "significantly" higher volumes of food coming into the Gaza Strip from multiple routes, and for crossing points to the north of Gaza to be open. "A functioning humanitarian notification system and a stable communication network are needed. And security, for our staff and partners as well as for the people we serve, must be facilitated," the agency said. "Gaza is hanging by a thread and WFP must be enabled to reverse the path towards famine for thousands of desperately hungry people." Evacuations from Nasser hospital Meanwhile, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) continued evacuating patients from the Nasser hospital complex in Khan Younis, amid continuing Israeli military operations and access restrictions. The health agency led two successful missions, evacuating 32 critical patients, including two children, from the complex on Sunday and Monday. The high-risk missions were conducted in close partnership with the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The situation at the hospital continues to remain dire. It has no electricity or running water, and medical waste and garbage are creating a breeding ground for disease., WHO said. Staff said the destruction around the hospital was "indescribable", noting that the area was surrounded by burnt and destroyed buildings, heavy layers of debris, with no road accessible roads. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN agencies sound alarm over renewed clashes in eastern DR Congo 20 February 2024 - Amid reports of a renewed escalation of hostilities in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN peacekeeping mission in the country has called on the M23 rebels to cease its offensive, the UN Spokesperson said on Monday as the Security Council prepares to meet on Tuesday at 3 PM New York time to discuss the situation. The UN Mission, MONUSCO, also called on the group to respect the Luanda roadmap, an agreement signed in 2022 by Angola, DRC and Rwanda that strives for peace in the conflict-affected eastern part of the country. MONUSCO is carrying out a three-phase process of withdrawal from the country following a UN Security Council resolution adopted in December that would see the gradual handover of responsibility to the Congolese Government later this year. Indiscriminate bombing Recent fighting between Government forces and the M23 group alongside indiscriminate bombing has recently strained already limited resources to accommodate 800,000 internally displaced people in the region, and 2.5 million others displaced across North Kivu province. At the same time, the impact of devastating flooding continues to affect the country, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, reported last week. Some 100,000 houses, 1,325 schools, 267 health facilities and large swathes of agricultural land have been damaged or destroyed, leaving an estimated two million people - nearly 60 per cent of them children - in need of assistance. Continued security support Meanwhile, the UN Mission in the country, MONUSCO, has continued to support the Congolese army by defending major routes leading to key towns of Sake and Goma in North Kivu province, the UN Spokesperson said. Due to the deteriorating security situation around Sake and Goma, the Mission is reinforcing its presence there by bringing in peacekeepers from its Force Intervention Brigade based in Beni, in the northern part of the province, he added. Over the weekend, MONUSCO met with the coordinator of the Congolese armed forces in North Kivu to coordinate joint military action in the defence of both Sake and Goma, he said. The Mission also expressed concern over recent disinformation campaigns targeting peacekeepers, which is hampering the peacekeepers' ability to implement their mandate. Peacekeepers are continuing to facilitate safe passage of civilians fleeing the fighting to more secure areas, including around the Kitchanga base, where some 25,000 civilians have sought UN protection, the spokesperson said. UN peacekeeping chief visits DR Congo Last Tuesday, Peace Operations head Jean-Pierre Lacroix visited MONUSCO with Catherine Pollard, Under-Secretary-General for Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance, and Christian Saunders, Special Coordinator for Improving UN Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. The peacekeeping chief reviewed the Mission's ongoing work in the context of the disengagement plan jointly agreed upon by the Government. "It is essential that the transfer of responsibility for security and the protection of civilians takes place at the same time as MONUSCO withdraws from certain sensitive areas where peacekeepers ensure the physical safety of several hundred thousand civilians," Mr. Lacroix said last Tuesday. He also called on the M23 group to cease hostilities. Earlier this month, UN Special Representative for DR Congo, Bintou Keita, who also heads MONUSCO, condemned a series of attacks on UN staff in Kinshasa, calling on Congolese authorities to launch an investigation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World News in Brief: Papua New Guinea violence, Ukraine's displaced, $2.6 billion DR Congo appeal 20 February 2024 - The Government of Papua New Guinea must effectively address escalating tribal violence, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday. Authorities are urged to engage with provincial and local leaders in a dialogue to achieve durable peace and respect for human rights in the remote Highlands region. The appeal follows the latest outbreak of violence between warring tribes in the Pacific Island nation, which occurred on Sunday in Enga province. At least 26 people were killed. Deadly conflicts escalating OHCHR Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence said conflicts among 17 tribal groups have progressively escalated, since elections in 2022, over a range of issues including land disputes and clan rivalries. "The clashes have increasingly turned deadly due to a proliferation of firearms and ammunition in the region," he said. "We call on the Government to ensure the surrender of all arms, particularly mass-produced firearms." OHCHR urged the Government to take immediate measures to address the root causes of the violence, and to work toward tribal reconciliation. The Highland communities, particularly women and girls, must be protected, and further harm to them prevented. Ukraine: Ongoing war prolongs uncertainty among displaced people The full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine enters a third year this week, prolonging uncertainty and exile for millions who have been displaced, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) warned on Tuesday. Almost 6.5 million Ukrainians are now refugees globally, while some 3.7 million remain forcibly displaced inside the country. UNHCR recently surveyed some 9,900 of the refugees and internally displaced people. Preliminary findings revealed that the majority still expressed a desire to return home one day. However, the proportion has declined, with more expressing uncertainty due to the ongoing war. Displaced Ukrainians cited the prevailing insecurity at home as the main factor inhibiting their return, while other concerns included a lack of economic opportunities and housing. UNHCR is seeking $993 million to support people both inside Ukraine and those living as refugees in host countries. The appeal is currently just 13 per cent funded. $2.6 billion appeal for DR Congo Humanitarians and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have launched a $2.6 billion appeal to provide life-saving assistance and protection to more than eight million people in the country. New outbreaks of violence, particularly in the volatile eastern region, are forcing affected populations to be repeatedly displaced. There are currently some 6.7 million internally displaced people in the DRC - which is also facing serious flooding and a resurgence of measles and cholera epidemics, thus increasing the vulnerability of people affected by more than three decades of armed conflict. Beyond the immediate crises, chronic needs and vulnerabilities persist in the DRC. Estimates indicate that nearly 25.4 million people will be food insecure this year, while 8.4 million will be affected by acute malnutrition. Additionally, more than a million children no longer go to school due to armed conflicts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The humanitarian community and the Congolese Government appeal for US$ 2.6 billion to respond to the alarming humanitarian crisis UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Kinshasa, 20 February 2024 -- The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the humanitarian community have launched an appeal for US$ 2.6 billion to fund the country's 2024 humanitarian response plan. The funds are aimed at providing life-saving assistance and protection to 8.7 million people in need. For more than a year, the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached alarming levels. A new surge in violence, particularly in the east of the country, is pushing affected populations into multiple forced displacements. The country currently has 6.7 million people displaced within its borders, amid serious flooding emergencies and a resurgence of measles and cholera outbreaks. All this has exacerbated the existing vulnerabilities of a nation that has been suffering under the effects of more than three decades of armed conflict. Beyond the immediate crises that require urgent attention, the Democratic Republic of the Congo also grapples with chronic needs and vulnerabilities. In 2024, an estimated 25.4 million people are food insecure, while acute malnutrition affects 8.4 million people, mainly children under the age of five, as well as pregnant and lactating women. "The humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached new peaks this year due to the worsening of conflicts, the emergence of new tensions, and climate-related disasters. Against this background, there are men, women and children facing very high levels of vulnerability," said the UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator, Bruno Lemarquis. In 2023, the humanitarian response plan was 40 per cent funded. This allowed humanitarian actors to provide assistance to only half of the people targeted for assistance across the country, i.e. five million out of 10 million people. As a result, many needs remained unmet. "This causes a lot of suffering, human tragedies, wasted lives. Too much of what was meant as temporary has become long-term. People want to return to their homes and resume their lives," stressed Bruno Lemarquis. More than a million children can no longer go to school due to armed conflicts. "The situation is very serious. We call on the international community to pay attention to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The country's unique potential has much to offer on the environmental, mining, and tourism fronts. But that requires peace," stated Modeste Mutinga Mutushayi, Minister of Social Affairs, Humanitarian Actions and National Solidarity. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN allocates US$100 million to boost poorly funded humanitarian crises UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Geneva/New York, 20 February 2024) Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths today released US$100 million from the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support underfunded humanitarian emergencies in seven countries in Africa, the Americas and the Middle East. The crises in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Sudan and Syria top the list, receiving $20 million each. The new allocation is among the smallest in recent years for the world's least-financed crises. This reflects the reduced funding that CERF received in 2023, its lowest since 2018, and the dire reality that donor funding is failing to keep up with soaring humanitarian needs. In 2023, to support 250 million people affected by conflicts, natural disasters, diseases and other crises, global funding requirements surged to $56.7 billion - a record high. But less than 40 per cent of that funding was received, leaving the most vulnerable people to bear the brunt. "The new emergency infusion of funds will help sustain life-saving humanitarian support to people facing the world's worst crises. It is a reminder of CERF's crucial role at a time of immense needs and chronic underfunding of humanitarian appeals," said Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths. "Yet with donations at their lowest level in recent years, CERF's life-saving impact is itself facing a serious challenge. It's now more critical than ever that Member States provide full and timely funding to CERF." With humanitarian needs expected to continue to soar in 2024, this latest CERF allocation is critical to scale up assistance for and spur further donor support for some of the world's most protracted and neglected crises. The new funding will also bolster partnerships with local organizations and enhance accountability. The funds will address large-scale displacement caused by the ongoing conflict in Sudan ($20 million), while in DRC ($20 million) they will help people affected by continued fighting in the east. In Syria ($20 million), the resources will help people affected by fighting, and the funding in Chad ($15 million) will support refugees and others. Funding will also go to Niger ($10 million), Lebanon ($9 million) and Honduras ($6 million). CERF releases resources for underfunded emergencies twice a year. The previous allocation took place in September 2023, with $125 million earmarked for underfunded humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Haiti, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Myanmar, the occupied Palestinian territory, Uganda, Venezuela and Yemen. Note to the Editor CERF is one of the fastest funding instruments available to help people affected by crises. Managed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on behalf of the UN Secretary-General, CERF enables timely, effective and life-saving humanitarian action by UN agencies and others to kick-start or reinforce emergency response anywhere it is required. Funding decisions for underfunded emergencies are based on detailed analysis of more than 90 humanitarian indicators and wide consultation with partners. Since its creation by the UN General Assembly in 2005, and with generous contributions from 130 Member States and observers, as well as other donors including private individuals, CERF has assisted hundreds of millions of people with around $8.9 billion across more than 110 countries and territories. This includes almost $3 billion to underfunded crises. CERF has an annual funding target of $1 billion. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Arleigh Burke Arrives in Souda Bay, Crete US Navy 20 February 2024 From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa Public Affairs SOUDA BAY, Greece -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) arrived in Souda Bay, Greece, for a regularly scheduled port visit, Feb. 15, 2024. Mooring in Souda Bay provides a chance to further strengthen the United States' partnership with NATO ally, Greece, and demonstrates Americans' commitment to a stable, secure, and prosperous Europe. It also allows Arleigh Burke's Sailors to experience the unique aspects of Greek culture. "Opportunities for port visits in Souda Bay are always enjoyed by the hard working men and women of Arleigh Burke," said Arleigh Burke Commanding Officer Cmdr. Tyrchra Bowman. "Greece has played such a crucial role in our NATO alliance since 1952 in maintaining collective security throughout the region. The Greek people have been a longtime friend to the American people. We always feel welcomed here, and my team and I look forward to opportunities to train and continue to strengthen our partnership together." During Arleigh Burke's time in Souda Bay, the ship will conduct short-term maintenance as it approaches the third month of its forward deployed patrol, in which the ship has supported both Carrier Strike Group Twelve and the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. Ahead of the visit, Arleigh Burke's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation committee organized tours of several cultural sites, including Rethymnon and Lake Kournas. The Arleigh Burke is currently on a scheduled patrol in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests. For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability. Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS. France will continue to support efforts aimed at a just and stable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. France is convinced that this can only be achieved if international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of borders are respected. French President Emmanuel Macron said this during a joint statement with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for media representatives. "I want to reiterate once again that you can count on France's support for Armenia, its independence, territorial integrity, democratic process and its aspirations for peace. Our meeting will allow us to discuss negotiations aimed at regulating relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The recent incidents in Syunik prove that the danger of escalation remains real. France will continue to support efforts aimed at a just and stable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. France is convinced that this can only be achieved if international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of borders are respected,'' he said. He noted that during the meeting held in Prague in 2022, the Armenian Prime Minister reaffirmed Armenia's commitment to the Alma-Ata Declaration and it is necessary for Azerbaijan to resolve the ambiguity regarding the territorial integrity and maps of the Republic of Armenia. According to Macron, this is necessary in order to carry out work on the delimitation and demarcation of borders, which will serve as the basis for bilateral withdrawal from the border. Swedish PM to Meet Hungary's Orban Before Vote on Sweden's NATO Bid By VOA News February 20, 2024 Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson will visit Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Budapest on Friday, three days ahead of the Hungarian parliament's expected vote on approving Sweden for membership in NATO. Orban said on Tuesday that it would be a "pleasure" to welcome Kristersson to Budapest, saying in a post on the X platform that they will be discussing how to strengthen "the defense and security policy cooperation between Hungary and Sweden." He added that during the meeting, they would also talk about "plans for the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and the EU's Strategic Agenda." Hungary's ruling party Tuesday proposed holding the February 26 vote on the ratification of Sweden's NATO bid and said it would support Sweden's accession. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the development is "very welcome." Sweden, along with Finland, applied to join the Atlantic alliance in May 2022 in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Finland became a NATO member in April of last year. Lawmakers from Prime Minister Orban's Fidesz party had repeatedly stalled voting on Sweden's NATO bid. They also had been angry with Sweden for criticizing a backsliding of democracy in Hungary. According to the Associated Press, Orban indicated in a state of the nation speech in Budapest last Saturday that lawmakers might soon relent. Over the weekend, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators visited Hungary to press the government on the matter, but no member of the government met with them. The U.S. lawmakers also said they would introduce a resolution in Congress urging the Orban government to act on Sweden's ratification. Accepting new members to the alliance must be a unanimous decision by the existing members and Hungary is the only NATO member that has yet to approve Sweden's bid. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. VOA's Henry Ridgwell contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Vetoes Gaza Cease-Fire at UN By Margaret Besheer February 20, 2024 Israel's military on Tuesday reported intense fighting in the Khan Younis area of the Gaza Strip, while the United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that calls for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, scaled up aid access and rejects the forced displacement of Palestinians. "Demanding an immediate, unconditional cease-fire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace," said U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the Algerian-drafted resolution. For weeks, the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Israel have been involved in delicate negotiations aimed at the release of all hostages and an extended pause in the fighting. "Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel, extend the hostages' time in captivity, an experience described by former hostages as 'hell,' and extend the dire humanitarian crisis Palestinians are facing in Gaza," Thomas-Greenfield said, adding "none of us want that." Algeria first presented the 15-member Security Council with its text three weeks ago and has delayed a vote to give those negotiations time. But the country's Ambassador Amar Bendjama said silence is no longer an option and it is time for the council to act. "We are rapidly approaching a critical juncture where the call to halt the machinery of violence will lose its significance," he said of Israel's impending incursion on the southern city of Rafah, where 1.5 million Palestinians are sheltering. "Today, every Palestinian is a target for death, extermination and genocide," he said. "We should ask ourselves: how many innocent lives must be sacrificed before the council deems it necessary to call for a cease-fire?" The Algerian text had strong council support - 13 members voted for it, Britain abstained, and the U.S. cast its veto. It is the third time Washington has used its council veto to block a cease-fire measure. "The call for a cease-fire should have been agreed to a long time ago," Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour said. "What fresh hell needs to be crossed for this council to finally demand a cease-fire?" Israel's envoy called the idea of a cease-fire "absurd" and not a magic solution. "So why is the council charged with security so fixated on aiding these monsters staying in power?" Ambassador Gilad Erdan asked, warning Hamas would attack Israel again given the chance. And he urged the council as a whole to condemn the Hamas terror attack of October 7, which it has so far not done. Several council members said in their remarks that the council should take this step. US counter-proposal The United States is proposing its own draft resolution, which several diplomats said had not yet been officially circulated at the council. Seen by VOA, it calls for a temporary cease-fire "as soon as practicable" and based on a formula of all hostages being released. It also notes the "urgent need for a viable plan" to protect civilians from an Israeli offensive in Rafah. The U.S. proposal "underscores that such a major ground offensive should not proceed under current circumstances" and "rejects any other effort at forced displacement of the civilian population in Gaza." "Colleagues, this is not, as some members have claimed, an American effort to cover for an imminent ground incursion," Thomas-Greenfield said of their text. "Rather, it is a sincere statement of our concern for the 1.5 million civilians who have sought refuge in Rafah." Thomas-Greenfield told reporters that the United States would work with other council members in good faith to get their resolution "over the finish line." Israel has warned it plans to carry out an offensive in Rafah, the area of southern Gaza along the Egyptian border. Israeli officials say the operation is necessary to target Hamas members there. The officials have also mentioned evacuations of civilians without providing any detailed plans. United Nations officials have repeatedly said no place is safe for civilians to go in Gaza. Egypt objects to the evacuation of Palestinians into its territory, saying it would amount to their forced displacement. Israel denies that is its intention. Satellite images show that Egypt has started building a high-security buffer zone near the border with Gaza in case of a mass exodus. The World Health Organization said Tuesday it led an evacuation of 32 critically ill patients from the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis "amid ongoing hostilities and access restrictions." The WHO said hospital staff requested the transfers after an Israeli military raid last week left the facility "non-functional." "The dismantling and degradation of the Nasser Medical Complex is a massive blow to Gaza's health system. Facilities in the south are already operating well beyond maximum capacity and are barely able to receive more patients," the WHO said in a statement. "WHO repeats its calls for the protection of patients, health workers, health infrastructure, and civilians. Hospitals must not be militarized, misused, or attacked." The World Food Program said it is pausing deliveries in northern Gaza, until safe conditions are in place for distribution. About 300,000 people are believed to still be living in the north, in dire conditions including looming famine. WFP said it resumed deliveries on Sunday after a 3-week suspension after an aid truck was hit in an airstrike. But chaotic situations with crowds climbing aboard their trucks, looting and violence, including gunfire, had impeded food distribution and made it too unsafe. Israel began its military campaign to eliminate Hamas after the group's fighters crossed into southern Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people according to Israeli officials and taking about 250 others hostage. Hamas, designated a terror group by the U.S., the U.K. and EU, is believed to still be holding about 130 hostages in Gaza, including 30 who are believed to be dead. Israel released video Monday of what it believes is hostage Shiri Bibas and her two young boys, Ariel, 4, and Kfir, 9 months, being led along a dirt street in Khan Younis shortly after their October 7 abduction. Their father, Yarden Bibas, is also still held hostage. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the military's chief spokesperson, said the army found the videos in security cameras seized during its offensive in Khan Younis. Israel's military campaign has killed 29,195 Palestinians and injured 69,170 others, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WHO: Gaza's Health System Hanging by a Thread Amid Ongoing Hostilities, Restrictions By Lisa Schlein February 20, 2024 The World Health Organization warns that Gaza's health system is hanging by a thread as health facilities throughout the Palestinian enclave cease to function, restrictions to access increase, medical supplies dwindle and cuts in other humanitarian aid essential for patient care grow. Gaza's Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, where an Israeli military operation is ongoing, is one of the latest casualties. WHO, together with the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, recently conducted a high-risk mission to the medical facility to bring fuel and other essential supplies and evacuate patients in danger from the facility. "The transfer of patients was requested by the hospital staff after the facility became nonfunctional following a military raid February 14, after a week-long siege," WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said Tuesday. "Weak and frail patients were transferred amidst active conflict near the aid convoy. Road conditions hindered the swift movement of ambulances, placing the health of patients at further risk," he said. Rik Peeperkorn, WHO representative for the Occupied Palestinian Territory who was part of the medical team, said the three-day mission was frustrated at every turn by military personnel around the compound. In a telephone interview from Cairo on Monday, Peeperkorn told VOA that his team had requested access to the hospital several times to talk to the staff, "do a quick medical assessment, plan a medical evacuation and transfer patients when needed." He said the team was not allowed access for the first two days but was granted access to the hospital on the third day. He said the team managed to transfer 14 critical patients eight nonwalking and six walking, along with two patient companions to four other hospitals in the area. WHO estimates that 130 sick and injured patients and at least 15 doctors and nurses remain inside the hospital. Peeperkorn described conditions in the hospital as dire and deteriorating. "The ICU is not functional," he said. "The hospital has no electricity. We brought in some medical supplies. It has actually very little food and water, no basic supplies for oxygen, no running water, and there is garbage everywhere, creating a breeding ground for disease. There is also heavy damage everywhere. "The limb reconstruction, which was the pride of Nasser Medical Complex, where a lot of amputations were prevented by excellent surgeons, is not functional anymore. Currently, you can say that the hospital, which is the largest referral hospital south of central Gaza, is not functional," he said. OCHA reports that the situation in Al Amal Hospital, also in Khan Younis, is also critical, following a four-week siege by the Israeli military. Food supplies reportedly are almost exhausted, and fuel reserves are dwindling. Another serious issue is malnutrition. A joint WHO, UNICEF, World Food Program report issued Monday warns that "a steep rise in malnutrition among children and pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza Strip poses grave threats to their health." It finds that 15% or one in six children under the age of 2 is acutely malnourished. Of those, almost 3% suffer from severe wasting. The report says that is "the most life-threatening form of malnutrition, which puts young children at highest risk of medical complications and death unless they receive urgent treatment." Peeperkorn notes that before Israel's invasion of Gaza, following Hamas' brutal attack on Israel on October 7, in which 1,200 people were killed and 240 taken hostage, "malnutrition was never an issue in Gaza," adding that currently, particularly in the north, "we are seeing incredibly concerning cases of malnutrition among children." But looming over those and myriad other problems is the fear of a military incursion by Israel on Rafah in southern Gaza, where 1.5 million people are living in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the military operation will go ahead at the start of Ramadan in three weeks if Hamas does not release the hostages. "Fear is what I read in all peoples' eyes, including in my national staff and their families," Peeperkorn told VOA. "Like everyone else in Gaza, they have been forced to move four, five, six times, forced to flee from the north and middle area to the so-called safer area in the south. "There is no place safe in Gaza. There are approximately 1.5 million people in Rafah. Where do these people go? There is no place to go," he said. "When we are talking about an incursion on Rafah, we are talking about a humanitarian disaster on top of another ongoing humanitarian disaster. That is unthinkable. It will have a terminal, catastrophic effect if that were to happen," Peeperkorn said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Food Agency pauses deliveries to the North of Gaza World Food Programme 20 February 2024 ROME -- The UN World Food Programme (WFP) is pausing deliveries of life-saving food aid to northern Gaza until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions. The decision to pause deliveries to the north of the Gaza Strip has not been taken lightly, as we know it means the situation there will deteriorate further and more people risk dying of hunger. WFP is deeply committed to urgently reaching desperate people across Gaza but the safety and security to deliver critical food aid - and for the people receiving it - must be ensured. Deliveries resumed on Sunday after a three-week suspension following the strike on an UNRWA truck and due to the absence of a functioning humanitarian notification system. The plan was to send 10 trucks of food for seven straight days, to help stem the tide of hunger and desperation and to begin building trust in communities that there would be enough food for all. On Sunday, as WFP started the route towards Gaza City, the convoy was surrounded by crowds of hungry people close to the Wadi Gaza checkpoint. First fending off multiple attempts by people trying to climb aboard our trucks, then facing gunfire once we entered Gaza City, our team was able to distribute a small quantity of the food along the way. On Monday, the second convoy's journey north faced complete chaos and violence due to the collapse of civil order. Several trucks were looted between Khan Younes and Deir al Balah and a truck driver was beaten. The remaining flour was spontaneously distributed off the trucks in Gaza city, amidst high tension and explosive anger. In December, the Integrated Phase Classification report compiled by 15 agencies including WFP warned of the risk of famine in northern Gaza by May unless conditions there improved decisively. At the end of January, after delivering food to the north, we reported on the rapid deterioration of conditions. In these past two days our teams witnessed unprecedented levels of desperation. The latest reports confirm Gaza's precipitous slide into hunger and disease. Food and safe water have become incredibly scarce and diseases are rife, compromising women and children's nutrition and immunity and resulting in a surge of acute malnutrition. People are already dying from hunger-related causes. A report issued Monday by UNICEF and WFP, based on recent data, finds that the situation is particularly extreme in the Northern Gaza Strip. Nutrition screenings conducted at shelters and health centres in the north found that 15.6 per cent - or 1 in 6 children under 2 years of age - are acutely malnourished. WFP will seek ways to resume deliveries in a responsible manner as soon as possible. A large-scale expansion of the flow of assistance to northern Gaza is urgently needed to avoid disaster. To achieve this, WFP needs significantly higher volumes of food coming into the Gaza strip from multiple routes, additionally, crossing points to the north of Gaza must open. A functioning humanitarian notification system and a stable communication network are needed. And security, for our staff and partners as well as for the people we serve, must be facilitated. Gaza is hanging by a thread and WFP must be enabled to reverse the path towards famine for thousands of desperately hungry people. # # # The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address On-the-Record Regional Press Call by APNSA Jake Sullivan on the National Security Supplemental February 20, 2024 Via Teleconference 1:06 P.M. EST MODERATOR: Good morning, or good afternoon wherever in the country you are. Thank you for joining today's White House regional press call on the urgent need for Congress to pass the National Security Supplemental. Today you will be hearing from Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor to President Biden. Following remarks, we will take questions from reporters. As a reminder, the content of this call is on the record but embargoed until its conclusion. By participating, you are agreeing to these ground rules. I will now turn it over to Mr. Jake Sullivan. MR. SULLIVAN: Thank you, Dhara. And thanks, everybody, for joining this call. Really appreciate it. I'm joining you from the White House, where we are asking Congress to urgently pass the National Security Supplemental bill and provide vital support to Ukraine so that it can continue to defend itself from Putin's vicious onslaught. This week, unfortunately, the House is on recess, having left town without taking action on this critical piece of legislation, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate last week with strong bipartisan support from senators of both parties. Over the weekend, as you all have seen, Ukrainian troops were forced to withdraw from Avdiivka, a town in eastern Ukraine where they'd been battling Russia for many months, handing Putin his first notable battlefield victory in a year. This happened in large part because Ukraine is running out of weapons due to congressional inaction. And Ukrainian troops didn't have the supplies and ammunition they needed to stop the Russian advance. Just one day earlier, Aleksey Navalny, Russia's most prominent political dissident, was killed in a prison. Aleksey Navalny had courageously stood up to the corruption and violence of the Putin government, and ultimately, he gave his life in pursuit of a Russia where the rule of law exists and is applied equally to everyone. These two events are a reminder of just how high the stakes are and why we need Congress to stand up to Putin and take urgent action on this National Security Supplemental bill. The bill advances America's core national security interests in several ways. First, it will allow the United States to continue to support the people of Ukraine, alongside our allies and partners, and to send them the weapons they desperately need as they fight every single day to defend their freedom and independence. These weapons that we've been sending to Ukraine are being made in America, by American workers, in 40 states across our country. American workers are producing Javelins in Alabama and Arizona; tanks in Ohio; armored and tactical vehicles in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin; HIMARS rockets in Arkansas; artillery ammunition in Pennsylvania and Texas; and rockets in West Virginia just to name a few. This bill continues these important investments in the U.S. defense industrial base, expanding production in these factories, revitalizing our submarine industrial base, and supporting jobs across our country, all while improving our own military readiness thanks to an enhanced defense industrial base. It's also in our strategic interest, our cold-blooded national security interest, to help Ukraine stand up to Putin's vicious and brutal invasion. We know from history that when dictators aren't stopped, they keep going. The cost for America rises, and the consequences get more and more severe for our NATO Allies and elsewhere in the world. We know that Putin doesn't just dream of conquering Ukraine. He has threatened our NATO Allies, who we are treaty bound to defend. In addition to standing up to Putin, this bill will help our ally, Israel, protect itself against Hamas terrorists and replenish Israel's air defenses so they are prepared against threats they face from Hamas rockets as well as from Iran and Iranian-backed militias like Hezbollah. This legislation will also provide resources for our troops in the Middle East who have faced their own attacks from Iranian-backed militias as they continue the important mission of defeating ISIS, as well as our naval forces who are protecting international commerce in the Red Sea from persistent attacks by the Houthis. The bill will provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance for vulnerable people who have been impacted by conflicts around the world. That includes millions of Ukrainians who have been displaced by Russia's war of conquest, as well as conflicts in Sudan and Nagorno-Karabakh. It will also support the urgent needs of the more than 2 million Palestinian civilians in Gaza, the vast majority of whom have nothing to do with Hamas and are suffering acutely as a result of this conflict. We are engaged every single day, directly and at the highest levels, on getting more aid into Gaza. And we're working around the clock to find a way forward that brings peace, security, and dignity for both the Palestinian people and the Israeli people, with the security of the State of Israel guaranteed. This bill also increases our support to our allies and partners in Asia amid our strategic competition with the People's Republic of China and threats from an increasingly aggressive North Korea. President Biden is urging the Speaker of the House to quickly bring this bill to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote. We know that it will pass on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis, just as it did in the Senate. And as the President has said, we cannot afford to wait any longer. Every day Congress delays comes at a cost to the national security interests of the United States. To close where I started, we are increasingly getting reports of Ukrainian troops rationing ammunition on the frontlines as Russian forces continue to attack both on the ground and from the air, trying to wear down the Ukrainian defenses that we've worked so extensively to build up over the past two years. American factories are producing more weapons and ammunition than they had in years thanks to our investments. But in order to keep that up, we need Congress to act. As National Security Advisor, I will tell you that our allies and our adversaries alike are watching what Congress does very closely. There are those here and abroad who say U.S. leadership and our alliances and partnerships with countries around the world don't matter. I'm here to tell you they do. Our alliances make us stronger; they make us safer. And passing this bill will send an important message of unity and strength, as well as American resolve, to the rest of the world. President Biden is determined to get this done. And we're asking Congress to do their part. And with that, I'd be happy to take your questions. MODERATOR: Thank you, Jake. We will now take questions from reporters. A reminder to please use the "Raise Hand" feature, and please state your name and news outlet when called on. We will begin with Kellan Howell with Scripps News. Q Hi, thanks so much for doing this call and for taking my question. I'm wondering, Jake, if you can talk about the impact you expect this new sanctions package to have that John Kirby earlier today said was being rolled out. I understand you can't talk about the details of the sanctions, but if you could speak to the impact those sanctions might have. And then, separate, could you also address consideration for a loan to Ukraine absent congressional action? Is that something that the White House is talking about? Thanks. MR. SULLIVAN: So, on the first question, as you heard from John Kirby earlier today, we are planning to roll out a package of sanctions at the end of this week, which will come, obviously, in the wake of the tragic death of Aleksey Navalny. And you heard President Biden say that Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. That sanctions package will also come on the eve of the two-year anniversary of the Ukraine war. And it will be a substantial package covering a range of different elements of the Russian defense industrial base and sources of revenue for the Russian economy that power Russia's war machine, that power Russia's aggression, and that power Russia's repression. So we believe it will have an impact. I would point out that this is on top of a significant framework of sanctions that we have worked with our allies and partners to build over the course of the past two years. But this is another turn of the crank, another turn of the wheel. And it is a range of targets a significant range of targets that we have worked persistently and diligently to identify, to continue to impose costs for what Russia has done for what it's done to Navalny, for what it's done to Ukraine, and for the threat that it represents to international peace and security. With respect to a loan to Ukraine, as I've said before, what we have requested and what the Senate passed on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis last week is both military assistance and economic assistance. That economic assistance is in the form of grants, because asking Ukraine to take on and shoulder a substantial amount of debt right now, as it's fighting for its life, we don't regard that as the best way forward. We think that the package we put together and that Democratic and Republican senators voted for last week is the right package. So, as far as I'm concerned, what we need to see from the House is that they move forward and pass this legislation, rather than have the United States negotiate against itself. MODERATOR: Thank you, Jake. Thank you, Kellan. For our next question, we'll head over to Orion Donovan-Smith. Q Thanks, Dhara. Orion Donovan-Smith with the Spokesman-Review in Spokane. Jake, I actually just got a call a couple days ago from Governor Inslee calling on members of Congress to do exactly what you're saying pass the supplemental. And he's really tried to put pressure on individual members of Congress, Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Dan Newhouse, in Washington State. As you say, you expect the supplemental would pass with bipartisan support, but obviously, that's up to Speaker Johnson whether it comes to the floor. What responsibility do individual House members have at this point, you know, when it's unclear that this will even get a chance will get a vote? MR. SULLIVAN: So, first, I think that individual House members have a responsibility to speak out especially those who have long been on the record supporting Ukraine speak out and call for a vote, call for their Speaker, their elected leader, to put this bill on the floor for an up or down vote. Because if it gets an up or down vote, it will pass overwhelmingly, on a bipartisan basis. And so, particularly for Republican members, the important thing is to strip away the ability of anyone to hide behind process and to make this a simple question of substance: Do people want to vote yay or nay to a supplemental package that is overwhelmingly in the interest of America's national security; that supports our friends and allies, Ukraine and Israel and Asia; and that delivers lifesaving humanitarian assistance. And I think any member of Congress who is doing right by their constituents needs to use this moment, this week, this day, to be vocal on this issue. And that is what we are asking everyone to do, whether they're a Democrat or a Republican, to speak out, to raise their voices, and to let it be known that they are looking for what the American people deserve, which is a straight up or down vote on this issue, because if there is a straight up or down vote, it will pass. Q And just briefly, is the White House open to any further negotiations on border security measures along the lines of the Fitzpatrick/Golden proposal? MR. SULLIVAN: We obviously want border action. Unfortunately, congressional Republicans walked away from a painstakingly negotiated border deal. President Biden asked Congress for the funding to hire 1,200 more Border Patrol agents, hundreds more immigration judges, asylum officers, and the resources to better detect fentanyl at our border crossings. President Biden supported the bipartisan agreement that was reached in the Senate. It was the toughest but fairest bipartisan border security deal in a generation. And it is difficult for us to see now how congressional Republicans, having worked this through, can turn around and suggest that they're standing up for border security when they've abandoned or walked away from a package that could garner a substantial number of votes and that reflects the input of both Democrats and Republicans. So we think that's the right package for the Congress to support, and we would ask them to take it up in both the Senate and the House. And, you know, we have not walked away from our commitment on this issue. It's really been the congressional Republicans who have walked away from theirs. MODERATOR: Thank you, Orion. Thank you, Jake. For our next question, we'll head over to Elex Michaelson with Fox 11 in California. Q Thank you very much. And thank you for taking our questions. What happens if the House doesn't pass this? Paint a picture of what that looks like. And is there a plan B of another way that you can get this money if Speaker Johnson just says no? MR. SULLIVAN: So, in many ways, I don't even have to paint a picture because we're seeing the pictures live, in living color, from Ukraine the Ukrainian forces having to move back from the town of Avdiivka, as I mentioned before, because they're not getting the level and tempo of supplies that they need and deserve. And they're not getting them because we have now gone weeks and months without the necessary funding. And that's been a result of congressional inaction. So those challenges are only going to compound over time. Shortages in ammunition and air defense systems will simply lead to a further depleted Ukrainian defense and to a greater advantage for Russia as it continues this imperial war of conquest against its neighbor. As I've said before from the podium, and will reinforce here, there is no magic solution to this absent Congress appropriating funding. It's not like we have a piggy bank where we just keep cash lying around that we can provide to Ukraine. We need the Congress to discharge its constitutional obligation to appropriate and obligate funds that the President can then put to use to send American-made weapons, made by American workers and American states, to Ukraine to help defend the freedom and independence of that country. And that's why our voice has gotten so intense and so urgent in recent days, because there's not another path for us to go down to get the kind of resources that we are asking Congress for here. There's not another avenue to it that and because of that, I think the Congress, and especially the Speaker, need to stare their responsibility square in the face and then meet that responsibility, meet that obligation to their voters and to the American people and to the American national security interest. Q So what does the Speaker say to you? We all saw that picture of him with former President Trump recently. I mean, how does he respond when you make this argument to him? MR. SULLIVAN: He says that he would like to find a way to provide support to Ukraine and to Israel and to Asia, and on the border. And then, dot-dot-dot, it doesn't happen. And one has to ask, "Well, why not?" And the answer is because he won't put it on the floor for a vote. And I don't think he has a good answer as to why he won't do that. So, at this point, we've got to match the basic words of support for our allies and partners with the action of putting this up for a vote. That's the Speaker's obligation. That's what he has to do. And he can't shirk from that or hide from that. He's got to step up and do it. MODERATOR: Thank you, Elex. Thank you, Jake. For our next question, we'll head over to Haley Bull. Q Hey, thanks, Dhara. Thanks, Jake, for doing this. One of the arguments we have heard the Ukrainians make as they push for this aid package to be passed, as well, is the support Russia is getting from Iran and North Korea. And I'm curious at this point if the administration has seen that advance further since the last time that was discussed and if there have been any changes in China's support for Russia as well. Thanks. MR. SULLIVAN: We have been on the forefront of warning about and describing the forms of support from Iran and North Korea to Russia, going back to the beginning of this war. We first elaborated Iran's support by way of providing these one-way attack drones. We first elaborated North Korea's support by way of providing ammunition as well as short-range ballistic missiles. And we have seen the support from North Korea steadily advance over the course of the past few months to include these ballistic missiles that Russia is using on the battlefield in Ukraine. And we have seen a continuation of sustainment of Iranian support as well. With respect to China, we have warned from the beginning about the need for China to refrain from providing weapons to Russia. We have not seen China provide weapons to Russia, but we have seen companies in the PRC providing inputs to Russia's defense industrial base, and that's something that has been of concern to us. And we have raised those concerns directly with our Chinese counterparts. Most recently, Secretary Blinken saw the Chinese foreign minister in Munich just a few days ago and raised these concerns. And we will continue to keep a close eye on that and watch as Beijing makes its decisions about whether and to what extent it's going to support Russia going forward. MODERATOR: Thank you, Haley. Thank you, Jake. For our final question, we'll head over to Nick Schifrin with PBS. Q Thanks, Jake, for doing this. Do you believe that Ukraine will lose without this supplemental? And do you believe that Ukraine can win with it? And I know we're focused on Ukraine, but if you don't mind my asking about the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan drove away a Chinese coast guard boat that entered near the frontline islands of Taiwan today, as you know, after a Chinese boat boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat. What do you think is the cause of the tension there? And do you believe the Chinese coast guard is acting appropriately? Thanks. MR. SULLIVAN: So, in February of 2022, most observers didn't think Ukraine would last a month. So I'm going to have a lot of humility about ever predicting that Ukraine will fail at anything, given the bravery and skill and courage of its fighters and its forces. I do believe that Ukraine can prevail in this conflict, that it can win. But it needs the resources and the support that it has, frankly, earned from its partners, including the United States. And that's why we're driving so hard at getting this vote. With respect to Taiwan, I'm not going to comment specifically on these incidents, only to say that we have been very clear where we stand, the United States stands, and that is for the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. And we are against any kind of action, by any party, that undermines that peace and stability. That will be a message that we continue to send loud and clear. MODERATOR: Thank you again, Jake. Thank you again to all of the reporters for joining today's call. For outstanding questions, please follow up with the White House. 1:27 P.M. EST NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. vetoes Security Council draft resolution demanding humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:07, February 21, 2024 Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said before the vote that Washington continues to give Israel "a license to kill," asking Security Council members "to counter the lawlessness of Washington." UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The United States on Tuesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. The draft resolution won 13 votes in favor among the 15 members of the Security Council. The United States voted against it. Britain abstained. To be adopted, a Security Council draft resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no veto from any of the council's five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States. The Algerian-drafted resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and would have deplored all attacks against civilians. The draft would have rejected forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population and would have demanded unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. The draft also would have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Before the vote on the draft resolution, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said the Algerian draft would jeopardize ongoing efforts toward a hostage deal. She said her delegation was working on a rival draft resolution that would call for a "temporary cease-fire" based on the formula that all hostages are released. Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said before the vote that Washington continues to give Israel "a license to kill." He asked Security Council members "to counter the lawlessness of Washington." Speaking after the vote, Nebenzia said full responsibility for the consequences of Tuesday's outcome falls on Washington, no matter how hard the United States tries to evade it by talking about its "important mediation efforts." In an explanation of vote after the voting, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, expressed his country's strong disappointment at and dissatisfaction with the outcome of the vote. "The U.S. veto sent a wrong message, pushing the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one," he said. The U.S. claim that the Algerian-drafted resolution would interfere in ongoing diplomatic efforts is totally untenable, said Zhang. The Security Council must take action to push for a cease-fire, which is its legal responsibility. The U.S. veto cannot muffle the strong call for a cease-fire and an end to the war in Gaza. The Security Council cannot stop its work to uphold justice and fulfill its responsibilities just because of the veto, he said. French UN ambassador Nicholas de Riviere regretted that the draft resolution was not adopted given the disastrous situation on the ground. "There is an extreme urgency to conclude, without further delay, an agreement on a cease-fire, which finally guarantees the protection of all civilians and the massive delivery of emergency aid," he said. "The human toll and humanitarian situation in Gaza are intolerable and Israeli operations must stop." The Algerian text was the eighth Gaza-related draft resolution that the Security Council has voted on since Oct. 7, 2023. Only two draft resolutions have been adopted, neither of which calls for a cease-fire. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Operation Iron Swords - Day 137 - 20 February 2024 The biblical holidays for the Jews this year intersect with the second week of Ramadan and Tarawih prayers, which may open the door to a new battle in Al-Aqsa Mosque. Ramadan is celebrated Mar 10, 2024 Apr 9, 2024. Tarawih, also known as Taraweeh, is a voluntary (nafl) night prayer performed by Muslims during the Islamic month of Ramadan. Tarawih prayers are a sunnah of the Prophet, which means that it was his practice to perform them. Purim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the survival of the Jewish people from annihilation in the 5th century BCE. The story is told in the Book of Esther and is known as the Feast of Lots. Purim dates are March 2324, 2024. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that the United States wants Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement on a humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip before the beginning of Ramadan. Miller said during a press conference: We would like to reach a humanitarian truce before the beginning of the month of Ramadan. We would like to reach it before the end of the week. We would like to reach it as soon as possible. In a related context, White House Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said that the US administration believes that the time has not yet come for a complete and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. An unprecedented decision that amounts to declaring a religious war against more than 2,000 million Muslims. This is how the head of the Freedoms Committee of the Higher Follow-up Committee in the Palestinian interior, Sheikh Kamal Al-Khatib , described the decision of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to impose restrictions on the entry of Palestinians from the interior. Al-Aqsa Mosque during the month of Ramadan; In response to the recommendation of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir . Al-Khatib stated, during an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera Net, that this clash will have unprecedented consequences and effects on Palestine and the entire region, stressing that the Palestinian people will not submit to the decision to prevent them from praying in Al-Aqsa Mosque, especially during the month of Ramadan. First of all, what do you think of the decision to restrict the entry of Palestinians from inside Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan? This decision is characterized by two characteristics: hatred and stupidity. Because whoever takes such a step is a hateful person because of his knowledge of the sensitivity and sanctity of the time, the month of Ramadan, and the place, Al-Aqsa Mosque. The decision also indicates its stupidity; Because he does not know the nature of a Muslim waiting for this season to spend some of his days in Al-Aqsa Mosque. Therefore, this decision is historic and unprecedented, and comes in the context of the crisis that the Israeli establishment is experiencing with the presence of a right-wing leadership represented by Netanyahu and Ben Gvir. Every year, before Ramadan, we hear about preparations to demonize it, but this demonization has turned into an act represented by preventing us from going to our Al-Aqsa Mosque, our first love. This is a clash with our faith that has no explanation other than declaring religious war, not against the two million Palestinians inside, nor the 14 million total Palestinian people. Nor 400 million Arabs; Rather, it is a declaration of war on two thousand million Muslims by confronting their faith. Why did Netanyahu ignore the recommendations of the police and Shin Bet and choose the most extreme recommendation, despite its danger? He ignored her because he wanted to reach this result, for things to flare up and for the situation to deteriorate. Because this would prolong his rule and postpone the elections. He only cares now about how long he stays in the prime minister's chair in Israel, and so he ignored and violated the recommendations of the Shin Bet and the police. We all know that Netanyahu's government is based on direct support for right-wing parties. He considers himself dependent on a rope around his neck being pulled by Ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. Israeli society has handed over its reins to those who will inevitably lead it into the abyss. Did the Palestinians silence regarding the violation of Al-Aqsa since October 7 lead to this result? What has happened since the seventh of last October are conditions that have imposed themselves on all the Palestinian people, with differences between the Palestinians of the interior and the people of the West Bank. Unfortunately, due to the presence of the Security Coordination Authority (referring to the Palestinian Authority), which was a heavy stick that contributed to the implementation of Israeli policies on our people. I do not think that this decision came from reading past events. Rather, it has always been on the minds of religious groups, especially regarding the issue of storming Al-Aqsa, performing prayers there and dividing it, and now the circumstances have come to implement it, due to the belief that the Palestinian people are in a state of clinical death. But I am certain that the issue of Al-Aqsa Mosque has always had special calculations, the truth of which is known only to those who have knowledge of the nature of peoples. I am certain that Al-Aqsa Mosque will be an earthquake with aftershocks not only in the region, but beyond that. To what extent is the announcement of the restriction decision, before a final decision is made, a measure of the Palestinians pulse and reaction before implementing it on the ground? Announcing a government meeting first and waiting for what comes out of it, and following up on its decisions, is not a test of the pulse as much as it is a proactive policy through which Netanyahu and his government wanted to put the dots on the letters early. They know what they want, and the media that accompanied the decision knows its seriousness, and hence this media shock was unprecedented, even in the Israeli media, which described it as a disaster and a real danger. What is the danger of the decision on the future of Al-Aqsa Mosque, changing the status quo there, and confirming its division? I confirm that this decision will not find its way to light. Because I am confident that our people will not give up their love for Al-Aqsa Mosque, specifically in the month of Ramadan. Since the Omari conquest, Al-Aqsa has been subjected to two occupations. The Crusader who left after 90 years, and the Israeli who will inevitably leave despite the passage of 75 years. But the features of the next stage will be decided not only by Netanyahu, but also by our Palestinian people, who will not surrender Al-Aqsa to these brutal policies. The occupation did not talk about restrictions on settlers storming Al-Aqsa during Ramadan, especially during Purim. What are the consequences? There are seasons of prominent raids on Al-Aqsa Mosque, the most prominent of which are on the holidays of Passover and Purim, and others on the Day of Atonement and Rosh Hashanah, and some of them intersect with the month of Ramadan, as happened in past years, but the intersection of Purim with Ramadan, in light of these restrictions and decisions, will result in, in my estimation, something beyond imagination. Al-Aqsa will be targeted. Once again, no scenario can be drawn that approximates the reality of the circumstances that Al-Aqsa will go through. This is a historic month, an unprecedented Ramadan, and it will have unprecedented repercussions. How can the Palestinians in Jerusalem and inside confront this decision in light of the security grip? The Supreme Follow-up Committee for the Arab masses had a very clear position in rejecting this decision and calling for its revocation. There is no doubt that a meeting will be held soon to study it, and it will be followed by a coordination meeting in Al-Aqsa Mosque with the Islamic Endowments Department and the National and Islamic Forces in Al-Quds Al-Sharif, as is usual. Our people cannot accept this decision, meaning that they will not say, We hear and we obey. We will not go to Al-Aqsa, especially those who are accustomed to crowning their annual worship in Al-Aqsa during the blessed month of Ramadan. This is a large percentage of the people, and no one will be able to prevent it. We will go to Al-Aqsa Mosque. If they attack us or prevent us, this is a responsibility they bear. We go to pray, to worship, to perform Tahajjud in the mosque, like every year, and we are not committing a sin or violating a law by praying there. Washington used its veto power again against an Algerian draft resolution in the Security Council regarding the Israeli war on Gaza, which obstructed the demand for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian reasons. This is the third time that Washington has used its veto power since the start of this war. The resolution received the support of 13 member states of the Council, with one vote abstaining. The American delegate justified the American veto by saying that presenting this resolution at this time was not appropriate, because accepting it would undermine efforts to exchange detainees, as she put it. The American delegate to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said that Washington does not support taking action on this draft resolution, and if it is put to a vote in its current form, it will not be adopted, which is what happened during todays vote. In her statement at the beginning of this February, Greenfield saw Algerias initiative to issue a new resolution as a threat to undermine the ongoing negotiations between the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) and Israel, with American, Egyptian and Qatari mediation, to establish a new truce that includes the release of Israeli detainees in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners imprisoned in Israel. The American delegate added that the UN Security Council must ensure that "any action it takes in the coming days will lead to increased pressure on Hamas, so that it accepts the proposal on the table." Algeria's permanent representative to the Security Council, Ammar Benjameh, said that rejecting the draft resolution constitutes approval of starvation as a means of war against the Palestinians. China also expressed its frustration at the Council's failure to adopt the resolution. For his part, the Russian delegate said that the Algerian draft resolution was balanced, and that Washington, with its decision, gave Israel a license and cover to kill the Palestinians. The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) condemned in the strongest terms the American veto against the Algerian draft resolution in the UN Security Council. Hamas said that US President Joe Biden and his administration bear direct responsibility for obstructing the issuance of a decision to stop the aggression. The HAMAS Gaza Municipality said that the Israeli enemy has destroyed about one million square meters of roads and streets since the beginning of the aggression and genocidal war it is committing against civilians and humanitarian services and facilities in the city. The municipality stated in a statement on Tuesday: The destruction in the streets and roads is unprecedented, as the enemy targeted by bombing or bulldozing the paved streets, islands, sidewalks, traffic signals, and various facilities related to the roads and streets. It added that the enemy targeted and destroyed about 3,600 traffic signals and signs, 260,000 meters of front stones and sidewalks, and 160,000 linear meters of lighting networks and lanterns, as well as unpaved roads by bulldozing, closing, and destroying residential buildings, shops, facilities, and industrial facilities. War Termination There is no end to the war in sight, as both sides still see the other as an existential threat, and there is no clear path to any kind of permanent peace between them. Majid Al-Ansari, spokesman for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced that no fruitful progress had been made in the course of negotiations between the Zionist entity and Hamas, and warned against any Israeli aggression against Rafah. The Qatari Foreign Ministry confirmed, "Any Israeli attack on Rafah , if it occurs, will affect the ongoing negotiations regarding a ceasefire and achieving a prisoner exchange deal." On the other hand, he explained that Qatari mediation efforts are continuing, communication between all parties is continuing, and Netanyahus statements will not affect Qatars role in the mediation. He announced the arrival of a Qatari plane to Al-Arish carrying 20 tons of aid to Gaza, confirming the arrival of a new batch of wounded Palestinians to Doha coming from the Gaza Strip. Al-Ansari stressed that the humanitarian aspect occupies priority in the ongoing negotiations on a new exchange deal, considering that the deterioration of the humanitarian conditions and the extent of destruction in the Gaza Strip is unprecedented. He continued: "We look with great concern at the reality of the Palestinian brothers in the northern Gaza Strip," stressing, "We always demand that aid must reach all parts of the Gaza Strip." The Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman expressed, "The situation in Rafah is very worrying, with about one and a half million people there. He stressed, 'We reject any attack on Rafah,' adding, 'There is no safe place in the Gaza Strip.'" Al-Ansari continued by saying: Qatar is working closely with the American administration within the framework of negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of prisoners in Gaza. Qatari mediation efforts resulted in a prisoner exchange deal and a truce that lasted for days in the Gaza Strip, before the occupation army resumed its intensive raids on the Strip. Al-Alam correspondent reported the occupation talks about a buffer zone surrounding the Gaza Strip at a depth of 1 km. The Al-Alam correspondent in Ramallah reported that the matter prompted the families of the Israeli prisoners to tell Benny Gantz that Netanyahu, Ben Gvir, and Smotrich consider the families of the Israeli prisoners to be their enemies, as they are demanding the return of their sons, and this is what has deepened the crisis and disagreement within Israel. The correspondent pointed out that the matter in Tel Aviv is not related to the issue of war, meaning that within the Israeli war government there is an agreement to complete the war. Even Benny Gantz wants to complete the war, and that the only one who constantly sends messages about the necessity of stopping the war and that it is no longer producing results is Ghadi. Eizenkot," but the rest of the members of the war government insist on continuing the war, and the disagreement within the war government is over priorities, while are the prisoners the priority or is destroying the Hamas movement the priority? Benny Gantz believes that liberating the prisoners is the priority, while Spotrich, Benny Gvir, and even Netanyahu believe that the continuation of the war is the priority. The correspondent noted that the second matter is that we point out two main points that were present today in the Hebrew media, and they are eye-catching. The first point is the map published by the Israeli occupation in which it talks on Israeli Channel 12 about a buffer zone surrounding the Gaza Strip at a depth of 1 km, meaning that the Gaza Strip is From the north to the south, a buffer zone of one kilometer deep will be established, and this area will be a completely destroyed area, and the Palestinians will not have any right to be in it, indicating that any Palestinian who is present in this area will be subject to execution. The correspondent stated that the second important point is the article published by the Hebrew newspaper Haaretz under the title Burn the State. In this article, the newspaper says that the decision to prevent Palestinians, who are specifically from the territories occupied in 1948, from praying in Al-Aqsa Mosque in the blessed month of Ramadan means that Benjamin Netanyahu has sentenced the Israeli entity to burning, and the newspaper indicates that this decision confirms that Netanyahu is taking strange decisions that do not apply to reality and are not in line with it, because playing on the religious string means destroying the situation in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and in the territories occupied in the year 1948. Operational Update There were 24 regional battalions in Gaza we have dismantled 18 of them, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told foreign reporters. Now, Rafah is the next Hamas center of gravity. Israeli Army Radio revealed that there are estimates within the army and security leadership that the ground operation in Khan Yunis is nearing an end, and that its position regarding the start of a ground operation in Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip , will soon be decided. The radio said, quoting military officials, that the ground maneuver in Khan Yunis is about to end, and that the forces of the 98th Division will complete their mission in the region soon, noting that there are a few targets remaining in the region, and the forces are expected to reach them in the coming days. Israeli Radio added that the occupation army is also close to deciding its position on whether it will launch a ground military operation in Rafah, and the senior leadership in the army and the political level - after the completion of the Khan Yunis operation - must decide what the next mission of the 98th Division will be, and whether it will head towards... Rafah or not? Axios reported that the Israeli army had prepared the plan for the ground military operation in Rafah, and is expected to present it to the security ministerial council this week, but it noted that Israeli and American officials have acknowledged that the start of the Rafah operation will not take place for several weeks, and it may be after RAMADAN month; That is, in mid-April. The website also quoted Israeli officials as saying that they need to move forward with the Rafah operation to dismantle four battalions affiliated with the Al-Qassam Brigades - the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), but they will not do so without coordination with the United States and Egypt. The Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), said that its fighters are waging fierce battles with the occupation forces south of the Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City. Al-Qassam added that it had spotted a number of Israeli planes that came to transport the dead and injured in the clashes that took place in the Zaytoun neighborhood. For his part, Al Jazeera's correspondent reported that occupation aircraft were bombing several areas in the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood. For its part, the Israeli army announced that 22 officers and soldiers were injured in battles in the Gaza Strip during the last 24 hours. The Al-Qassam Brigades announced that they had targeted an occupation force, consisting of 15 officers and soldiers, barricaded inside a house, with two anti-tank and anti-personnel shells in the Al-Hawouz area, west of Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip. The statement stated that Al-Qassam forces heard the screams of Israeli soldiers after they caught fire inside the house in which they were holed up. The Al-Qassam Brigades also announced the sniper shooting of two Israeli soldiers in the Al-Amal neighborhood, west of Khan Yunis. The statement added that Al-Qassam fighters clashed with an occupation foot force at the site, killing and wounding its members. The Al-Qassam Brigades broadcast scenes of occupation aircraft being targeted with Sam-7 missiles in the airspace of Gaza City. The brigades said that the operation was carried out in cooperation with the Mujahideen Brigades. The Palestinian resistance said that its resistance fighters engaged in violent clashes with occupation soldiers and vehicles with appropriate and varied weapons on the front lines of advance east of Gaza City. She added that the resistance fighters achieved confirmed and direct casualties among the ranks of the occupation forces. Violent clashes and fierce battles broke out on Salah al-Din Street, east of the Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City, during the occupations attempt to advance there. The combat team of the IDF paratrooper brigade continues to deepen the fighting in western Khan Yunis, the fighters raid terrorist targets, eliminate many terrorists at close range and with accurate sniper fire. The 646th Reserve Brigade has been fighting in the Gaza Strip for the past few months. During their activities, the fighters of the brigade combat team eliminated many terrorists, located weapons and destroyed a strategic underground route of the terrorist organization Hamas that crosses the Gaza Strip from north to south. The forces of the 7th SDF continue intense fighting in the west of Khan Yunis, and have killed dozens of terrorists in the last day. The brigade attack cell directed an aircraft, using which some of the terrorists were eliminated by quick circuit closures, other terrorists were eliminated through tank fire and sniper fire. Soldiers of the Givati Security Guard in Khan Yunis identified a number of terrorists armed with an RPG-type missile and a Kalashnikov-type weapon and eliminated them at short range. The Air Force under the direction of the fire center of Division 98 attacked a Hamas weapons warehouse in the area of the city of Khan Yunis, during the attack sub-explosions were detected in the compound indicating the presence of many weapons in the area. In the center of the Gaza Strip, the Nahal TDF continues to operate and eliminated a number of terrorists throughout the last day. During the fighting, the brigade's fire complex identified a terrorist in the area, aimed sniper fire at him and he was eliminated within a few minutes. The results of the war of starvation - which the Israeli occupation forces are pursuing against the residents of the Gaza Strip - have begun to appear clearly with the depletion of food supplies and commodities and the imposition of a stifling siege that prevents the entry of humanitarian aid to the northern Strip and its residents. In this context, the military and strategic expert, Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi, says that all divine religions, international laws, and UN agreements prohibited the use of hunger as a weapon and considered it a war crime. Al-Duwairi confirms - during his analysis for Al Jazeera - that Israel's goal is to empty Gaza of its population and practice forced displacement, noting that everything that is happening is tools to achieve this. It is estimated that there are between 300,000 and 700,000 people in Gaza City and its north, and according to the strategic expert, Israel wants to evacuate them from the region and push them to move south. Al-Duwairi cites the statements of Israeli Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, in which he threatened to strike Gaza with a nuclear bomb, as well as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich , who called for keeping only 150,000 residents of Gaza, in addition to Defense Minister Yoav Galant , who said that Israel is fighting human animals, there is no water and no electricity. "No food or fuel." He points out that the occupation did not commit a war crime without using it, and it also employed all means to achieve its goal, such as starvation, destroying infrastructure, practicing forced displacement, and fighting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees ( UNRWA ). Regarding the operations carried out by the occupation army in the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood, east of Gaza City, with the aim of destroying the infrastructure of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), Al-Duwairi said that these statements are a refutation of the occupations previous claims of eliminating Hamas military capabilities in the northern sector. He added that there is another dimension to what the occupation is doing in the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood, as it falls within the framework of a systematic process to create a buffer zone from the outskirts of Beit Hanoun in the north of the Gaza Strip to Rafah in the south, in addition to starting to open a road from Juhr Al-Dik in the east of the Central Governorate to Al-Rashid (Al-Bahr) Street, with the aim of separating the north. from the rest of the sector, and is working to secure it with large military forces. It should be noted that at the beginning of this month, the occupation army bombed a gathering of displaced people who were waiting for humanitarian aid to arrive at the Kuwait Roundabout (southeast of Gaza), and an UNRWA aid convoy was targeted on Al-Rashid Street by Israeli naval boats. Israeli special forces stormed the Jenin camp after besieging it from all axes, amid armed clashes with resistance fighters. The correspondent reported that explosive devices were detonated in the occupation army's vehicles during its storming of the city of Jenin, and Israeli reconnaissance planes also flew at a low altitude in the sky of the city of Jenin and its camp. Medical sources reported that a Palestinian was wounded by bullets from the occupation forces during the confrontations in Jenin, while Israeli Army Radio reported that Israeli forces eliminated a number of militants in the Jenin camp. The soldiers of the IDF, the Shin Bet and the Mageb worked tonight to arrest 11 wanted persons throughout Judea and Samaria and throughout the Bekaa and Emekim division. The forces operated in an operation that lasted over six hours in the village of Burka in the Samaria division, this after last night's attack in which an Israeli citizen was injured by the throwing of an explosive device. As part of the operation, the fighters interrogated suspects and searched buildings. In Bir Zeit in the Binyamin Brigade the forces located and confiscated weapons, in the city of Ramallah terrorist funds were confiscated and in Beit Surik the forces confiscated additional weapons. In the village of Rantis in the Ephraim Brigade, the forces arrested a wanted man and confiscated additional weapons. The wanted persons who were arrested and the means of warfare that were confiscated were transferred to the security forces for further treatment, there are no casualties to our forces. So far, since the beginning of the war, approximately 3,150 wanted persons have been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Division, over 1,350 of whom are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant considered on Tuesday that the attempts of Lebanese Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah (to support Gaza and carry out operations against Israel) fail. In his statements at the Tel Shamim base, Yoav Gallant said: Nasrallahs attempts fail. We operate with military freedom everywhere. We strike in Damascus, we strike in Beirut, Sidon, and Nabatieh, and we work according to our needs in order to ward off threats to the State of Israel. Gallant added: "Every day we win, and every day Hezbollah loses, and if Nasrallah escalates, we will respond with greater force, and this will continue." Israeli media addressed the increasing number of incidents in which drones launched by Hezbollah infiltrated into the depths of the occupied territories without being detected, questioning whether the Resistance movement has found a gap in the Israeli army's interception and detection system. In a serious incident earlier today, a Hezbollah drone was found in the yard of Moshe Davidovich, the head of the "Mateh Asher" Regional Council and Confrontation Line Forum in northern occupied Palestine. Davidovich was quoted by Israeli media as saying that the UAV had made it past all anti-air and detection systems and mechanisms. This evidence took place just one day after a drone made its way uninterrupted 50 kilometers deep into northern occupied Palestine and reached Tabaraya. Israeli Channel 12 reported that "Hezbollah's drone incident .. is an additional example of the weakness of the security institution in detecting relatively small aerial objects." For his part, the military affairs correspondent for the Israeli channel KAN warned that Hezbollah's drones crossing into the north undetected raises serious questions about the current systems in place. Itay Blumenthal pointed out that "officials in the Air Force are talking about complex events and a great challenge in detecting Hezbollah's aerial objects, as they generally fly at a low altitude." He added that "the enemy is constantly studying the Israeli army's capability to detect and locate," explaining that "the more primitive the aerial object is, the harder it is to detect as it has a very low thermal footprint." Israeli Security Minister Yoav Gallant visited earlier today a base in northern occupied Palestine housing "Israel'" new "new giant missile-detecting" balloon Sky Dew. According to Kan, this system is "still non-functional" and had been out of service for about two years due to a balloon tear, and repairing the fault took about two years. The channel added that the security minister threatened Lebanon with the Israeli Air Force, but "did not talk about detection systems." Earlier today it was reported that an aircraft belonging to the terrorist organization Hezbollah was located in the Western Galilee region. The incident is being investigated. Fighter jets attacked a terrorist infrastructure in the area of Leyda and a number of military buildings in the areas of Aita al-Sha'ab used by the terrorist organization Hezbollah. Another military building was attacked in the Kfar Kila area, where a number of operatives were identified. IDF forces attacked additional areas in the territory of Lebanon. Earlier, a number of launches were detected in areas from Mesgav with and Margaliot, there were no casualties. Since the morning hours, fighter jets have attacked a number of Hezbollah terrorist targets in Lebanese territory. The forces attacked two launch positions in the Yaron and Marvin areas, alongside two terrorist infrastructures in the A-Dahira and Yaron areas. Two military buildings were attacked in the Khula and Leida areas. The military spokesman for the Armed Forces, Brigadier General Yahya Sarie, explained that the Yemeni Armed Forces Air Force carried out a military operation with a number of drones against a number of enemy American warships in the Red and Arab Bahrain. He also carried out a military operation targeting sensitive sites of the Israeli enemy in the Umm al-Rashrash area in southern occupied Palestine, using a number of other drones. Pointing out that the naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a targeting operation against an Israeli ship MSC Silver in the Gulf of Aden with a number of appropriate naval missiles. Adding that these operations come as a victory for the oppression of the Palestinian people, who until this moment are subjected to aggression and siege, and in response to the American-British aggression against our country. During the past 24 hours, the armed forces targeted two American ships in the Gulf of Aden, the first, Sea Champion, the other, Navis Fortuna, and a British ship, RUBYMAR, as well as shooting down an American MQ9 aircraft in the airspace of Hodeidah Governorate with a home-made surface-to-air missile, while "carrying out hostile missions against our country on behalf of the Zionist entity". Yahya Sare'e, Spokesperson of the Temeni Armed Forces and Director of the Moral Guidance Department of the Armed Forces, said: "In the Name of God. Allah almighty said (Permission has been given to those who have been fought because they have been wronged, and indeed, God is Able to grant them victory.) God Almighty has spoken the truth.) "Triumphing the operessed people of Palestine, who until this moment are subjected to aggression and siege in the Gaza Strip, and within the response to the American-British aggression against our country. "The naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out with the help of Allah Almighty-two specific military operations in which they targeted two American ships in the Gulf of Aden, the first was "Sea Champion" and the other was "Navis Fortuna". The targeting operation was carried out with a number of appropriate naval missiles, and the casualties were Accurate and direct, thanks to God. "The total number of armed forces operations during the past twenty-four hours reached four operations. The first targeted a British ship and the operation resulted in its complete sinking, thanks to Allah. The second operation targeted the American aircraft "MQ9" in the airspace of Hodeidah Governorate, while the last two operations targeted two American ships. "The Yemeni Armed Forces affirm their full right to take further military measures in the Red and Arab seas in defense of our people, our country, and our nation, and in confirmation of their position in support of the oppressed Palestinian people, and that their operations in the Red and Arab Bahrain will escalate and will not stop until the aggression stops and the siege on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip is lifted.. Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs, the best protector, and the best helper." A Hebrew report stated that maritime transport companies received a painful blow in the Red Sea, at the hands of the Yemeni "Ansar Allah" group (Houthis), especially those linked to Israel. A report monitoring the impact of the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea on Israeli ports"Centcom" reveals a weapon used by the Houthis for the first time against American ships in the Red Sea The report stated that the Houthi attacks prompted transport companies to avoid passing through Bab al-Mandab and divert their routes, tripling the time for their arrival to Israeli ports. For her part, Khitam Salama, from the Strategic Planning Department at Haifa Port, confirmed the impact of these attacks on work in the port, and explained: Of course, they affected our work, and I think they affected the entire region.. The ships will arrive eventually, but they will take longer than before. In a normal situation, for example, a ship that normally took a week now takes three weeks. She added: "At the port, we are trying to meet the largest number of orders while reducing the number of ships coming to us. A large ship arrived to us today and we have been waiting for it for nearly three weeks." It was noted that the security situation prompted insurance companies to impose additional fees on containers, and the fees amounted to about 65 tenths of the value of the ship, in line with the costs of the trip and the duration of arrival, which doubled in addition to the risks of war. Khitam Salama commented on this situation, which doubled work at the port, saying: Coordination... shifts with equipment with ships coming to the port... communication with shipping companies with which we conclude agreements... we are trying to meet orders... the port operates 24 hours a day, 7 days. That is, we are working around the clock in line with this state of emergency. This situation requires us to work more and at a higher capacity to satisfy shipping companies. For its part, the Israeli Tax Authority pointed out that it compensates ships that suffered war damage by 100%, but the continuation of the Israeli war on Gaza will keep the situation as it is in light of the Houthi group linking the safety of ships to ending the war. Analysts and experts agreed that the region is a candidate for all possibilities in light of the continuation of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip , developments in the Red Sea, as well as the unpredictability of the decisions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The senior researcher at Al Jazeera Center for Studies, Dr. Liqaa Makki, says that the militarization of the Red Sea by Western and American fleets makes the region a fertile arena for intense tension, and one of the military ships may be hit, in light of the inability to estimate the extent of the Houthi capabilities. Makki added - during his talk on the program Gaza... What Next? - that the current solutions are patchwork because they are merely attempts to repel continuous strikes without the ability to destroy platforms or prevent attacks, in addition to Washingtons unwillingness to wage war. He concludes that the Gaza war is likely to escalate, "and everyone may become involved in the Middle East crisis, and a comprehensive war may break out in which major countries will become involved, including Western Europe." He points out that Washington is involved in the war and the decision to launch it was agreed upon by it and Western capitals with Tel Aviv to rid the region of armed groups due to the existence of future normalization projects that integrate Israel into the Middle East as a leading state. According to Makki, no American official called for a permanent ceasefire, but rather called for a temporary humanitarian truce, while emphasizing the necessity of defeating the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), adding that Washington and Western capitals support Israel diplomatically, militarily, and in the media. In turn, the researcher specializing in regional issues, Muhammad Saleh Sedqian, confirms that the problem is the continued aggression against Gaza and the threat to invade Rafah , and is not the weapons that the Houthis possess . What is happening in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab is a reflection of what is happening in Gaza. Sedqian adds that the Iranians warned against opening new fronts more than a month after the outbreak of the Gaza war, "and other new fronts may be opened, because Tehran cannot control the actions of its allies." He describes those who look at the Red Sea crisis apart from the Gaza war as unrealistic, citing the Houthis talk that they will stop launching attacks against ships heading to Israel if the aggression against Gaza stops. Sedqian points out that Netanyahu has not achieved his strategic goals, and may commit foolishness of a certain kind outside occupied Palestine, and stresses that all possibilities are open about the way the current war will end. Moreover, after last October 20, an Iranian reading emerged about not expanding the scope of the war, as Tehran worked to implement this reading, because Netanyahu wants to lure the Americans and Iranians to Saddam. For his part, former US State Department official William Lawrence believes that the Houthis targeted an international shipping line and turned it into a conflict within a regional agenda, adding that thousands of ships were forced to divert to the Cape of Good Hope, which put pressure on international trade. He notes that the Houthis targeted 25 ships, some of which had no connection to Israel, which prompted 25 countries to form a coalition to protect ships and commercial companies, believing that what is happening is a distraction and helps the Israelis, not the Palestinians. He believes that the United States and the European Union are working for peace in Yemen, but the Houthis do not want to do so, and have targeted ships that have no connection to Israel and taken sailors hostage. Regarding the recent Security Council vote against an Algerian draft resolution on a ceasefire in Gaza, Lawrence believes that Washington was wrong to use the veto and should not have used the veto, but he referred to what he called a diplomatic game in the Security Council, before adding that the Algerians should have communicated. With Washington, as the Emiratis did previously. Maps All maps are lies. Not only is it easy to lie with maps, it is essential, wrote cartographer Mark Monmoneir in his book How to Lie with Maps. He showed that condensing complex, three-dimensional spaces onto a two-dimensional sheet of paper [in old days] is bound to be reductive. But it is impossible to comprehend the war in Gaza without reference to maps, otherwise the entire conflict is reduced to an endless series of meaningless acts of random violence and the suffering of civilians. The first characteristic of guerrilla warfare is the loss of a front line. Evidently, different mappers have different ideas of how to depict the war in Gaza, notably those that seek to depict Israeli progress in the ground campaign. Part of the problem is latency. The news that forms the basis of the maps takes time to filter out to mappers, and the cartographers take time in crafting their maps, and it takes time to curate them. These processes are uneven among mappers, so their maps may differ in detail. Probably there is some ideological bias, or at least thematic apperception, which is understandable in wartime. It may come as no surprise that al-Jazeera maps depict rather less Israeli territorial progress than other sources. Finally, there remains the epistemological question of just exactly what are the colored in areas depicting. Naively, this might be understood as areas of Israeli control, that are no longer contested by the HAMAS. Or possibly these are areas of Israeli presence, in many of which the possibility of an RPG-wielding HAMAS militant popping out of a tunnel unexpectedly remains a live possibility. With the "zero-range" combat characterized by small unit tactics on both sides, maps may be prey to a fallacy of misplaced concreteness. Bystanders The United Nations World Food Program announced that it had temporarily suspended the delivery of food aid to northern Gaza until conditions in the Strip allowed for safe distribution, as it put it, despite mounting warnings of the specter of famine that has now loomed over more than 2.2 million people in the Strip. The United Nations Population Fund expressed its horror at reports of Israeli officers stripping Palestinian women and girls in Gaza of their clothes and subjecting them to rape or execution. UN agencies also warned of an explosion in the number of child deaths in Gaza. The Fund added in a post on its account on the X platform that reports indicate that Palestinian women and girls in Gaza have been beaten, arrested, humiliated, raped, or executed by Israeli officers. The UN Fund stressed that "women and girls are not targets." Axis of Resistance Israel believes Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar fled the Gaza Strip for Egypt, said Arabic online newspaper Elaph [not a particularly reliable source]. According to the report, the Hamas chief could have taken an unspecified number of hostages with him. He is believed to have crossed the border through a tunnel he entered in the Refah area with his brother and sister. The report suggested Israel knows of eight tunnels allowing even a car to be transported across the Egyptian border. Iranian Interior Minister Ahmed Vahidi received Hamas spokesman Osama Abu Hamdan, Islamic Jihad media department official Ali Abu Shaheen, and representatives of Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Iran. During this meeting, the Iranian Minister of Interior expressed his appreciation for the Palestinian people and their resistance, and said: Today, Palestine shines in the world. When the enemy sought to normalize the relations of Islamic countries with the Zionist entity, Palestine returned to life again. He added: At a time when some countries were moving their embassies from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, Operation Al-Aqsa Flood was launched to be an end to surrender and humiliation. In turn, Osama Abu Hamdan explained the motives and objectives of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and discussed some of the achievements of this operation at the political and military levels, expressing his thanks and appreciation for the support and backing of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the government and the people of Iran. For his part, Ali Abu Shaheen explained the role of other resistance factions, including Islamic Jihad , in Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, and mentioned the assurances of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution on the necessity of cooperation, coordination, and unity among the resistance factions. He added: The blood of Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters was mixed in this battle to embody military and political unity in a practical and tangible way. The Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) said that the statement issued by a group of UN experts - which documented the blatant human rights violations suffered by Palestinian women and girls specifically in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank - is confirmation and additional evidence of the crime of genocide and cleansing. Racism committed by the occupation. The movement indicated that the types and forms of violations to which Palestinian women are exposed by the occupation army, such as executions, arbitrary arrests, severe beatings, and deprivation of food and medicine during detention, in addition to threats of rape and insults during interrogation, require the opening of an international investigation into this rogue entity to hold it and its leaders accountable. for their brutal crimes. Hamas described the statement as important and appreciated its issuance, and called for its adoption as an additional document in the case file filed before the International Court of Justice to look into the crimes of genocide committed by the occupation against the Palestinian people. The leader of the Hamas movement, Osama Hamdan, said that the fate of the Israelis is to submit to what the resistance demands, no matter how long the battle in Gaza lasts, while the leader of the Islamic Jihad movement, Ali Abu Shaheen, held the American administration responsible for managing the war of extermination in Gaza. In a press conference for the leaders of Hamas, Osama Hamdan, and Islamic Jihad, Ali Abu Shaheen, as part of the 24th media and press exhibition in Tehran, Hamdan said: Our position is clear and firm, the first of which is stopping the aggression completely, bringing relief to our people, lifting the siege, and exchanging prisoners is the final outcome. He added: No matter how long the battle lasts, the fate of the Israeli is to submit to what the resistance demands. Osama Hamdan described October 7 as a special day that sent messages that the Palestinian people will not die or surrender, but will resist. He said: The occupations insistence on changing facts under the threat of military pressure will not affect our position. He stressed that: The occupation has not achieved any of its goals in the Gaza Strip so far, and it has not even been able to restore the prestige of its army. He stressed that: Hamas deals with the initiatives presented to it and we do not give up any of our rights. He pointed out that: The initiatives proposed so far do not live up to the aspirations and will of our people. For his part, the leader of the Islamic Jihad movement, Ali Abu Shaheen , said : Our Palestinian people are depriving the enemy of the opportunity to achieve their goals through their steadfastness. He stressed that: Unity on the field in Gaza and unity among the resistance forces is what will prevent the occupation from achieving its goals. He pointed out that: The normalized Arab regimes are opening their borders and ports today in order to lift the siege on the occupying entity. Abu Shaheen added: The Zionist entity continues to implement its plan to displace the people of Gaza outside its land, which threatens Arab national security. He said: We affirm that the resistance forces adhere to their principles in full, and what the enemy does not take in the field will not be achieved through negotiations. The leader of the Islamic Jihad movement stated: We hold the American administration responsible for managing the war of genocide in Gaza . He said: The presence of the resistance forces is appreciated and appreciated, specifically the Yemen front, which had an extended impact through targeting Israeli ships. He added: From Tehran, we appeal to those who have a conscience and concern for Al-Aqsa to turn the month of Ramadan into the title The Month of Al-Aqsa. He warned: The Al-Aqsa Mosque of your Prophet is exposed to great danger and there are great threats. If you do not get angry at Al-Aqsa and Gaza, when will you get angry? Abu Shaheen said: The West, with its stupidity in its management of the Yemeni influence, caused damage when it launched an aggression against Yemen, so it transferred the hostility directly to it and not to Israel, which is targeting its ships. He pointed out that in terms of support for the Palestinian people, the media front is important, and he said that the actual support front will help achieve victory. Ali Abu Shaheen added: We hope that other forces will join the Yemeni position in support of the resistance. He concluded by saying: We call for turning the month of Ramadan into the month of Al-Aqsa, despite the presence of great threats in this context. Allied for Democracy The American website "Axios" said that White House Middle East Affairs Coordinator Brett McGurk is expected to visit Israel and Egypt this week, to discuss the possible Israeli operation in Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip. The website quoted American and Israeli officials as saying that McGurk is expected to meet with the director of the Egyptian Intelligence Service, Abbas Kamel, and other Egyptian officials, tomorrow, Wednesday, and then with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his Defense Minister Yoav Galant, and other Israeli officials next Thursday. The website added that McGurk will also discuss efforts made to secure the release of the hostages. The White House is deeply concerned that a possible Israeli military operation in Rafah, where more than 1,400,000 Palestinians are concentrated - most of whom were displaced from other places in Gaza - would lead to significant human losses. Biden told Netanyahu in phone calls last week that he opposed such an operation without a credible and implementable plan to evacuate Palestinian civilians from the city. The website indicated that the United States and Egypt also fear that such an operation would push tens of thousands of Palestinians across the Egyptian border into the Sinai Peninsula. In the same context, yesterday, Monday, Egypt and the United States held consultations in Cairo on ways to end the Israeli war in the Gaza Strip, which has been ongoing since last October 7 . This came during a meeting between the Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, and a delegation from the US House of Representatives, according to what Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid reported, via the ministrys account on the X platform. Butcher's Bill / Oasis of Martyrs On 7 October 2023, Hamas and other armed groups present in the Gaza Strip carried out an attack in Israel, killing more than 1,200 persons, injuring thousands and abducting some 240 people, many of whom continue to be held hostage. It was the second largest loss inflicted on the Israeli forces after the 1973 war. Palestinian armed groups launched thousands of missiles at Israel Following this attack, Israel launched a large-scale military operation in Gaza, by land, air and sea. The 1,200 Israelis killed on the first day would be the equivalent of 36,000 Americans killed in an attack, as a proportion to Israels population of 9.3 million people (compared to 332 million in the USA). Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated: Not since the Holocaust have so many Jews been killed in one day". PM Netanyahu stated "On October 7th, Hamas murdered 1,400 Israelis. Maybe more. This is in a country of fewer than 10 million people. This would be equivalent to over 50,000 Americans murdered in a single day. Thats twenty 9/11s. That is why October 7th is another day that will live in infamy." Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant considered 05 February 2024 that half the number of Hamas militants were killed or seriously injured by Israeli army forces. A Hamas official based in Qatar told Reuters 19 February 2024 that the terrorist group estimates that 6,000 of its fighters have been killed by Israeli forces. That number is about half of the 12,000 terrorists that Israel said it has killed since the Oct. 7 Hamas-led massacre, As of 15 February 2024, The Director-General of the HAMAS Government Information Office in the Gaza Strip , Ismail Al-Thawabta, stated "the toll of the aggression had risen to about 35,500 martyrs and missing persons, including 28,663 martyrs and 68,395 injuries. There are about 2,493 massacres committed by the occupation army. Among the martyrs were about 12,400 children, 8,450 women, 340 medical personnel, 46 civil defense personnel, and 126 journalists. There are approximately 11,000 wounded people who need to travel for treatment.... we received live testimonies stating that the occupation army committed field executions against more than 137 Palestinian civilian detainees in the Gaza and North governorates." The HAMAS Ministry of Health in the besieged sector announced that the number of victims of the Israeli operation its beginning had risen to 29,195 martyrs, "including 12,300 dead children, 8,400 women, 340 medical personnel, 46 civil defense, and 124 journalists." He pointed out that "7,000 people are missing, 70% of whom are children and women, The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The number wounded was 68,883. The Palestinian Government Media Office in Gaza had said much earlier that the number of missing people had risen to more than 8,000, including including 4,700 children and women, amid expectations that the toll will be double thi figures. The IDF intensified its military operations in the West Bank, and increased the pace of incursions and raids into cities, towns, and camps, resulting in the martyrdom of 398 Palestinians, the injury of about 4,500, and the arrest of 5,780, according to official HAMAS sources. As of 17 January 2023, the Israeli escalation in the West Bank led to the death of 360 Palestinians, the injury of nearly 2,200, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, and the arrest of about 6,000, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club. More than 202 Hezbollah fighters were killed in Lebanon during exchanges of bombing operations with Israel. Israel revised down the death toll from the October Hamas attacks in southern Israel from 1,400 to 1,200. IDF had said previously it was holding 1,500 bodies of terrorists, a total that now would increas to about 1,700. The total announced number of Israeli officers and soldiers killed had risen to 573 since the start of the war on October 7, including 241 [235?] killed since the ground invasion as a result of the ongoing clashes with the Palestinian resistance. Among them were at least 56 with the rank of platoon commander, 43 with the rank of company commander, 9 with the rank of battalion commander, and 5 with the rank of brigade commander. These officers constitute 23% of the total deaths of the Israeli army in the war on Gaza. Israeli media reported that 27% of the Israeli military casualties in the war were officers. In detail, the media highlighted that three brigade commanders, four battalion commanders, and other senior officers have been killed in the war so far. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported that 29 of the army's deaths were caused by "friendly fire" and operational incidents since the start of the ground war in Gaza, late last October. The Israeli authority explained that "18 army soldiers were killed by friendly fire, two were killed as a result of gunfire (without explanation), and 9 Israeli soldiers were killed in ammunition, weapons, or run-over accidents." The Jerusalem Post newspaper revealed that 15 soldiers were killed in the Strip without their bodies being found. According to some reports statistics indicate that 20% of the Israeli losses were due to friendly fire. Because the nature of the battle has become completely different from what was expected, and it lacks a front line. Haaretz newspaper quoted the Israeli Ministry of Defense as saying that the Medical Rehabilitation Department has treated more than 5,500 wounded since the beginning of the war on the Gaza Strip on October 7. Israeli Army Radio reported that the Rehabilitation Department of the Ministry of Defense is preparing to receive 20,000 wounded this year, compared to 5,500 wounded received last year since the start of the war. It was announced that soldiers wounded in the Gaza Strip battles numbered to 2,918 since the beginning of the war, including 1,296 who had been wounded since the start of the ground attack on October 27, 2023. The Israeli army reported that 407 who are still receiving treatment for their injuries in the Gaza battles, and the condition of 48 of them is serious. The number of injured among the Israeli army since the start of the ground operation in the Gaza Strip on October 27 included 602 minor cases, 430 moderate cases, and 264 critical cases. The Israeli army published new data about those wounded in the military operation in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli army announces that 540 soldiers were injured in the Gaza Strip. According to army data, 540 soldiers, including 27 seriously injured, were injured in operational incidents since the start of the bombing of the Gaza Strip. There were also 21 accidental shooting incidents in the Gaza Strip, 54 bilateral shooting incidents and 31 traffic accidents. In addition, 388 incidents occurred, including ramming anti-tank rifles, anti-aircraft guns, weapons and machine guns. At least 14,377 Israelis were injured, according to i24 TV. Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper had reported that 5,000 soldiers had been wounded since the beginning of the war on October 7, and that the Ministry of Defense had recognized 2,000 soldiers as disabled so far. An estimate by the Israeli Ministry of Defense expected that the number of soldiers with disabilities in the war taking place in the Gaza Strip since October 7 of last year would reach 12,500 soldiers. The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth said that the Soldiers' Rehabilitation Department of the Ministry of Defense has dealt with 3,400 soldiers who were classified as disabled in the army since last October 7. The Israeli army revealed that about 9,000 of its soldiers have received psychological assistance since the beginning of the war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, and about a quarter of them have not returned to combat. This came according to a new statement revealed by the Army Medical Corps, according to Channel 12 and the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. According to the statement, nearly 9,000 soldiers have applied for psychological assistance since the beginning of the war, and approximately a quarter of them have not returned to combat. The statement continued, "In total, about 13,000 regular and reserve soldiers required accompaniment or medical treatment at some level during the fighting, and thousands of them were injured in the battles." Al Jazeera military and strategic expert Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi expressed his conviction that the numbers of dead and wounded announced by Israel cannot represent the truth, due to a discrepancy between the Israeli armys data and the Walla website, which is close to the army itself. In an interview with RT, Military strategist retired Tunisian Brigadier General Tawfiq Didi said that the number of Israeli army deaths in the Gaza battles is much greater than what Israel announces. Didi explained in an interview with the Best Saying program on RT channel, The number of people killed in battles can be easily known, as the equation in wars is that for every 3 wounded there is a dead person, and the numbers now in Israel hover around 12,500 wounded and disabled people, and when we divide by Three, we find that the death toll exceeds 4,000, especially after eliminating more than a thousand tanks and armored vehicles, and I know what happens when Kornet missiles hit a tank. Its ammunition explodes and no one is left alive. He added, "The Israelis announce their dead only of those of Jewish origin and of the first race, meaning all Arabs, Falash, and those who are among them. They are not counted because they are of the second category. So I am sure that the number exceeds 4 thousand dead, and this is a very easy military calculation." He pointed out, "The Palestinian resistance documented everything it did, unlike the Israelis. The resistance documented shooting at tanks and armored vehicles and destroying the houses in which the Israeli soldiers were holed up, and we saw them being killed... We saw the Kornet hitting the tanks, we saw Al-Yassin 105, so the difference is clear." Hostages Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that the destruction of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) is more important than the return of those he called kidnapped from Gaza , to which opposition leader Yair Lapid responded by saying that his position regarding the detainees is a moral disgrace. Smotrich explained, "The return of the kidnapped people at all costs is not the most important matter, but rather the destruction of Hamas," adding, "Whoever calls for a (prisoner) exchange deal at any price will bring loss to Israel and reduce the possibility of returning the kidnapped ones," he said. Smotrich - who heads the "Religious Zionism" party - usually raises controversy with his statements, and he previously acknowledged to the families of Israeli detainees held by the Palestinian resistance in Gaza that he cannot promise them to return all the prisoners alive. He added, "In my estimation, what is happening to manage this war is correct, and there is a clear policy that we will follow until the end, and we are prepared to pay prices for that." The Israeli Finance Minister's statements quickly sparked a response from opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said that "Smotrich's position on the return of the kidnapped people is a moral disgrace." Lapid previously said that Israel "will neither be safe nor a moral state nor will it win the war unless the kidnappers return." Lapid's statements coincided with previous statements by the Minister of Heritage in the Israeli government, Amichai Eliyahu, in which he said that "dropping a nuclear bomb on Gaza is a possible solution." The Israeli opposition leader also previously called for the formation of a new government, and believed that the time had come for Benjamin Netanyahu 's government to step down , stressing that the person during whose term "the greatest disaster we have witnessed occurred must be removed from our lives." Israel announced 12 February 2024 that the total number of prisoners that the army was able to recover in exchange deals and through military operations was 126 people, including 91 Israelis, 11 bodies, and 24 foreign workers. Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed have been held as hostages in Gaza since 2014 and 2015, respectively. Unlike the roughly 240 people kidnapped in the Hamas October 7 terrorist attacks, the campaign for the release of Mengistu and al-Sayed has received little publicity. Mengistu is known to suffer from what HRW deemed "serious" mental health issues. "Avera crossed one of the safest borders in the world, under the eyes of the security services," recalled Gil Elias, a relative. "We're talking about a mentally ill person who got lost." The calls for the release of Mengistu and al-Sayed have been barely audible during the many years they have been held captive in Gaza. Israel had previously estimated there were 116 living hostages in Palestinian custody. Israel declared 20 out of 136 people in Gaza captivity dead in absentia, after announcing its forces had recovered the bodies of two hostages. By another count, 132 of them are still being held in Gaza, and 25 of them have been confirmed dead. Israel considers those still held by Hamas to be hostages regardless of whether they are dead or alive. Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy earlier had told reporters that Hamas still held 137 captives. The resistance released 10 Israeli detainees, 4 Thais and 2 Russian women, who were released outside the agreement. Over the course of 6 days, Israel has received 102 detainees, women and children, including 78 Israelis, in exchange for the release of 234 Palestinian prisoners, women and children. Eylon Levy, the Israeli government spokesperson, told reporters 01 December 2023: Hamas still held 137 hostages from the October attacks, in addition to four others who went missing before the war The hostages include two children aged four and 10 months, who, Hamas now claims, are dead 117 male hostages are still kept in Gaza, including the two children, as well as 20 females 126 hostages are Israelis, and 11 others are foreign nationals Foreign nationals are eight Thais, one Nepalese, one Tanzanian and one French Mexican citizen Ten of the remaining hostages are 75 and older. There are seven missing people since the October 7 attack Hamas had released 110 hostages so far 86 Israelis and 24 foreign nationals. Some of the rest are soldiers, seized when Hamas raided military bases in Israel. They may end up being held the longest. The Israeli military had not specified how many soldiers were captured, nor their ranks. Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari announced on 07 February 2024 that 31 hostages detained in Gaza had died. He added in a press conference, "We informed 31 families that their detained relatives had died, and thus we announce their deaths." According to some estimates, Hamas was initially holding nearly 210 of the 240 hostages, while Palestinian Islamic Jihad was holding the remaining 30. About 40 Israelis remained missing. More than 40 hostages taken from Israel into Gaza on October 7th are not currently in the custody of Hamas, the group responsible for the attack, according to a CNN report based on a diplomatic source briefed on the negotiations, CNN's prior reports had indicated that an estimated 40 to 50 hostages were held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad or other unidentified groups or individuals. Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, said on Hamas telegram account that 23 bodies of the 60 missing Israel hostages were trapped under the rubble. It seems that we will never be able to reach them due to the continued brutal aggression of the occupation against Gaza, he said. The Al-Qassam Brigades announced on 11 February 2024 that the continuous Israeli bombing of the Gaza Strip during the past 96 hours led to the death of 2 prisoners and the serious injury of 8 others. The Palestinian Prisoners' Club revealed that about 11,000 arrests were carried out by the Israeli army during the year 2023 in the West Bank, including occupied Jerusalem, in addition to arrests from the Gaza Strip before the seventh of last October. The number of people arrested by the Israelis in the West Bank since that date has exceeded 7,100. The total number of prisoners in Israeli prisons exceeds 9,000 Palestinians. Palestinian prisoner institutions said 661 were classified as unlawful combatants from Gaza, and this is the number available only as a clear given. The Palestinian Prisoners' Club said that there has been a significant increase in the number of Palestinian administrative detainees in Israeli prisons since October 7, with 3,484 detainees recorded, including children and women. The club added in a statement that "this number was not actually recorded even during the years of the 1987 uprising." Israel said on 19 February 2024 that, since the beginning of the war, approximately 3,150 wanted persons have been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Division, over 1,350 of whom are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas. On 08 January 2024 it was reported that more than 1,350 wanted persons had been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Division, more than 870 of whom are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas. The institutions added in the statement that the occupation arrested 210 women during the aforementioned period, and this statistic includes women who were arrested from the territories in 1948, and more than 355 children, pointing out that the outcome of the arrest campaigns includes all those who were arrested from homes, and through military checkpoints, Those who were forced to surrender themselves under pressure, and those who were detained. It explained that "the number of arrests among journalists reached 50, of whom 35 remain in detention, and 20 of them were transferred to administrative detention." The announced numbers of detainees do not include those who were detained from Gaza since the start of the operation in the Gaza Strip, as there is no accurate census of these numbers. As of 15 February 2024, the Director-General of the HAMAS Government Information Office in the Gaza Strip , Ismail Al-Thawabta, stated "the information available to us is that the occupation arrested approximately 2,600 people, including 99 medical personnel and 10 journalists." Israel has rejected international legal adaptations since 1967, and has treated the Palestinians as criminals, and tried them before military courts and not as prisoners of war. Because the POW is not tried, but is released when the war stops, or as a result of a political agreement. But international humanitarian law sets clear conditions relating to the Palestinians, whether as prisoners of war or organized groups with one leadership and carrying a unified slogan, and these conditions apply to Palestinian resistance fighters, specifically armed groups. International law, through the Third Geneva Conventions, which relate to prisoners of war and armed conflicts, and the Fourth Geneva Convention, which relates to civilians under occupation; Provide full protection to Palestinian prisoners and groups, including resistance factions. The obstacles imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities became very different after the seventh of last October. They decided to cancel all trials in order to double the sentences issued against detainees, and now The scope of arguments before lawyers is very limited, due to military orders, and not according to legal data. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine The capture of Avdiivka was one of Vladimir Putin's political tasks. The Russian government was badly in need of demonstrating a win ahead of Putins rubber-stamp re-election as president in March 2024. Avdiivka is a city 13 kilometers from Donetsk, occupied by the Russians. Throughout the years of the war, the front line passed near the city. From October 10, 2023, Russian troops began storming Avdiivka with columns of equipment. This stage of the battles for the city was called "the great offensive on Avdiivka". The Russian Federation, apparently, was afraid of a possible attack on Donetsk from here. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), delays in Western aid to Ukraine helped Russia advance on several fronts. US funding for arms shipments to Ukraine remained uncertain due to opposition from former President Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress. The bill on aid to Ukraine, which is opposed by former President Donald Trump. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Republican Mike Johnson, noted that he has no plans to bring a $95 billion international aid package to a vote in the House of Representatives anytime soon. The US Senate supported a draft law that provides aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan in the amount of 95 billion dollars, 60 billion of which is assigned to Kyiv. The lack of ammunition was the main reason that prompted the Ukrainians to withdraw from Avdiivka, despite its importance, but today they face other problems on the way to protecting the rest of the provinces cities. Oleg Zhdanov, a military expert and colonel in the reserve forces, believes that time is running out for Ukraine. The problem of the lack of ammunition may continue until the end of spring, because it depends to a large extent on faltering American aid. Also, after the loss of Avdiivka, Ukraine will face difficulty in transferring supplies to the rest of the fronts. Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, received campaign contributions from American Ethane, a company 88% owned by three Russians, including Russian nationalist Konstantin Nikolaev, who previously funded Russian spy Maria Butina. No wonder he is against the aid to Ukraine, and is nicknamed "Moscow Mike". Trump's enthusiasm for Russia is well known. US President Joe Biden called on the House of Representatives to approve the bill as soon as possible, which, among other things, provides for assistance to Ukraine. He emphasized that "the price of inaction is increasing every day, especially in Ukraine, there are already reports that Ukrainian troops are running out of ammunition on the front line, while Russian troops continue to advance." The importance of the adoption of the aid package for Ukraine was emphasized by the former commander of the US Ground Forces in Europe, Ben Hodges, during a conference on the prospects of the Russian war in Ukraine. He noted that for him, as an American, "it is humiliating that the United States could not provide a new aid package" to Ukraine. According to Ben Hodges, currently "Ukraine is doing everything possible to buy time for next year", which, according to the general, "could be the decisive year" of this war. Ukrainian troops left Avdiivka on February 17, 2024. The Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced this decision : " Based on the operational situation around Avdiivka, in order to avoid encirclement and preserve the lives and health of servicemen, I decided to withdraw our units from the city and move to defense on more favorable lines." Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Volodymyr Zelenskyi called it a logical and professional decision for the sake of the lives of the military. On 18 February 2024, the Ukrainian military, by order of the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, moved away from their positions in the city of Avdiyivka in order to protect the lives of personnel. From October 10, 2023, the occupiers began to storm Avdiivka en masse. Institute for the Study of War analysts noted that the capture of Avdiyivka is an example of how Russia conducts offensive operations that do not necessarily create conditions for wider operational gains. "Russian forces have not yet demonstrated the ability to ensure significant operational success or conduct rapid mechanized maneuver over large swathes of territory, and the capture of Avdiivka should not be taken as a demonstration of this ability," the ISW emphasized. The Russian tank regiments and divisions that operated near Avdiivka "distinguished themselves", advancing several kilometers in 4 months and suffering huge losses in personnel. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces suffered much fewer losses and were able to withdraw to prepared defensive positions. From 2014 until today, Avdiyivka was the closest city to Donetsk under the control of the Ukrainian army. The demarcation line, which was formed here in 2014, almost did not move for the entire 8 years of the war, until the beginning of a full-scale invasion. The front passed through the Avdiivka industrial zone: on one side - the city of Avdiivka, on the other - occupied Yasinuvata. Both Ukraine and Russia were firmly entrenched here at the beginning of the war, so during its new phase in 2022, this fortified area was very difficult for the aggressor. Military analysts had assessed the scenario of an attack by the Armed Forces on Donetsk as unlikely. On the approaches to it, there are dense buildings, not to mention the city itself. Street battles are among the most difficult, and always involve significant civilian casualties and destruction of buildings. And the Armed Forces of Ukraine did not attack any population center "head-on" during the entire war - from 2014. In contrast to Russia, which uses exactly such tactics in every case. On the morning of October 10, 2023, Russian troops launched the most powerful attack on Avdiivka during the 9 years of the war. Statements of Russian propaganda on that day indicated that the Russian Federation expected to capture Avdiivka by the evening. However, this "day" lasted for four months. at the end of October 10, 2023 Russian troops continued the operation to storm the Avdeevsky fortified area. Fighting was going on near the outskirts of the village of Berdychi . Soldiers of the Russian army have gained a foothold on the northeastern approaches after crossing the railway track and are awaiting a counterattack by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The assault groups managed to break through the defenses of the Ukrainian Armed Forces at a waste heap located southwest of Krasnogorovka . This is a commanding height from where Russian troops will be able to control the approaches to the Avdeevka fortified area from the north and west, facilitating the encirclement of Avdeevka. During these 4 months, Russian troops conducted 20-60 assaults per day, which is a very high indicator for the Ukrainian front. Russian units went to Avdiivka in armored columns with assault forces, losing them in the fields. During this time, it became clear that even the extremely difficult battles in Bakhmut could not compare with what was happening in the Avdiiv direction. By early NOvember 2023, Ukrainian military observer Yuri Butusov believes that the battles for the city of Avdeevka in the Donetsk region are tactically different from the defense of the temporarily lost Ukrainian cities of Severodonetsk, Lisichansk, Soledar and Bakhmut. He suggested that there could be a trap for the Russians here. According to him, the 110th Mechanized Brigade demonstrates exceptional combat effectiveness and reliably holds the city, preventing the enemy from getting caught in urban development, so the enemy is advancing north and south of the brigades positions. Butusov drew attention to the fact that Ukrainian troops have much more advantageous positions in terms of tactics and are good at holding the flanks of the breakthrough. If we stabilize the defense north of Avdeevka, then even in positional defense, Russian troops will suffer losses many times higher than ours. The situation near Avdievka poses much more risks for Russian troops than for us, he emphasized. Military correspondent Yuri Kotenok spoke about the main events of the battle for Avdiivka, notimg the first encirclement of Avdeevka by the Russian army failed. We took Berdychi, the enemy knocked us out, we had to start over. They entrenched themselves on the dumps, did not attack head-on, went around to the left of the coke plant, and struck between it and the quarry. The underground raid on the Tsars Hunt demoralized the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They quickly took over high-rise buildings, practically on the fly. There are powerful air bombs on the fortifications. The 3rd brigade of the MTR ("Azov", a terrorist organization, banned in the Russian Federation) did not save.... Avdeevka was taken more competently than Bakhmut. Connection: aviation - artillery - infantry. Avdeevka was taken by infantry units. Avdeevka was taken by private infantry Vanya, God bless him! The city was squeezed, weak points were revealed, and they were cut into pieces like a pie." The situation escalated when they took Opytnoye, then it escalated sharply after the waste heap fell, which was a natural, but very powerful and even serious line of defense. After the waste heap fell, the situation became more complicated. Some believed it was clear that the Ukrainian army would not be able to hold Avdiivka by November 2023, when the Russian Armed Forces occupied Opytne. The Russian occupiers advanced on Avdiivka with particular tenacity. For this, a huge amount of manpower and equipment was used. a significant number of enemy forces were destroyed. Similar tactics, as near Avdiivka, were used by the Russians in Severodonetsk in 2022 and in Bakhmut in 2023. At the same time, it is not entirely correct to compare the battles in these cities. It was much more hellish battles and a much more difficult situation. In particular, the number of Russian forces in the Avdiiv direction was much larger than during the battles for Bakhmut. This applies not only to manpower, but also to technology and aviation. In Avdiivka, everything was many times more. It must be taken into account that the Russians prepared as many as 7 fully equipped brigades just for the offensive . They were used in the direction of the breakthrough of the area that they had planned: through the city to Industrial Avenue and then the encirclement of the groups that were there. Guided aerial bombs simply turn entire buildings into dust. Even basements are not safe from them. In the battles for Avdiivka, the number of guided aerial bombs that the Russians fired at Ukrainian positions played a huge role. They destroyed any command posts, positions, destroyed everything that was in general. On average, 60-80 KABs fell per day, but sometimes more than 100 KABs flew in per day. In February 2024, in addition to narrowing the pockets around the city (these are the storming of the villages of Pervomaiske, Nevelske, Stepove, Berdychi, Novobakhmutivka and others), Russian troops were able to break through to the city buildings and launch a direct attack on the city. One of the factors that made this possible was that the aggressor bypassed the Ukrainian positions and got behind them in the area of the "Tsarska Okhota" restaurant in the south of the city. Russian soldiers claimed that the Russian Armed Forces passed 2 kilometers through a pipe in the ground (presumably this is an element of the system of the Donetsk filter station, the Avdiiv coke plant, or simply a sewer). In parallel, they continued the pressure through the Avdiiv industrial zone from the east and on the Avdiiv coke plant from the North. However, the most significant advance was from the South. About a week before the end of the defensive operation, information appeared in the mass media about the transfer to Avdiivka of 3 separate assault brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. At the time, most observers believed that the unit was transferred to try to recapture the city. However, from the way events developed later, it can be assumed that the task of the unit was precisely to ensure the exit of the units from the city. At least 7 brigades of the Russian Armed Forces stood against the Defense Forces in Avdiivka. Ukrainian military and international monitors, such as the Institute of Study of War and the intelligence of Great Britain stated that Russia used an unprecedented number of troops in the operation to capture Avdiivka (according to British intelligence - 8 brigades). Already at the end of October, the British called the Russian losses near Avdiivka one of the largest for 2023, and in the first month of intensified assaults, the Russian Federation lost 10,000 soldiers and 350 units of armored vehicles, according to the calculations of the General Staff of the Armed Forces. "I thank the fighters for the worthy battle they gave to the enemy in Avdiivka in the conditions of the total superiority of the Russians in manpower, equipment and ammunition. They did everything and even more. Thank you for your resilience everyone. We retreat to prepared positions to return and deliver an even more powerful blow. Thanks to the command for the considered decision. The battle continues," said Brigadier General of the 3rd OShBr Andriy Biletskyi on February 17. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu reported 17 February 2024 to Russian President Vladimir Putin about the complete taking of Avdeevka under control of the Center group of troops under the command of Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev. On the last day of the city's defense, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi , while attending the Munich Security Conference, said that Russia's losses near Avdiivka since October amounted to tens of thousands of soldiers, and that the ratio of Ukrainian to Russian losses there is one to seven. Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, the commander of the Tavria operational-strategic group of troops, said that during the battle for Avdiivka, which began on October 10, 2023, the Russians lost 47,000 soldiers on this part of the front. The active storming of the city took place for almost 4 months. In addition, the invaders lost 364 tanks, 248 artillery systems, 748 armored fighting vehicles and 5 aircraft. Commander Oleksandr Tarnavskyi thanked each Ukrainian soldier for their steadfastness, courage, heroism and destroyed enemy equipment. "In small cells, the retreat was indeed not without losses, because the enemy continued to launch rocket and air strikes, part of the special forces advanced to all positions. It was extremely difficult for us to leave the city without a fight. Some of our fighters were in fortified areas and were fighting at 360 degrees - in complete surroundings," according to Mykola Malomuzh, a retired army general and former head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine. A message appeared in one of the Russian telegram channels about the shooting of six captured servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine at one of the positions in Avdiivka - it is about the Zenit military district. The Prosecutor General's Office wrote that it has launched an investigation into the shooting of Ukrainian prisoners of war by the Russian military in Avdiivka and Vesely. According to the prosecutor's office, these were seriously wounded fighters who could not move on their own and were waiting for evacuation. On February 18, 2024 WarGonzo reported Under the pressure of the Russian Armed Forces, the Ukrainian Armed Forces completely abandoned Avdeevka and the coke plant. Thus, the most powerful Ukrainian fortified area near Donetsk fell. The Russian Armed Forces have every chance of developing operational success in this sector of the front. Ukrainian positions in Konstantinovka (not to be confused with the settlement of the same name southwest of Bakhmut), Pobeda and the city of Krasnohorivka are under attack. Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War emphasized that the Russians were unable to completely surround Avdiivka during the 4 months of active fighting that began in October. They could not overcome even 9 kilometers. This shows that the Russians are ready to commit tens of thousands of soldiers to offensive operations, which will not even necessarily create conditions for wider operational gains. The Ukrainian military had already taken up new defensive positions after leaving Avdiivka. They are preparing for new probable offensive actions of the Russian army. After the withdrawal from Avdiyvka of the Donetsk region, the Armed Forces of Ukraine established themselves on new frontiers, said the commander of the operational-strategic group of troops "Tavria" Oleksandr Tarnavskyi. General Hodges said that in Avdiivka, the Russians are doing what they do best: "They have the ability to continue to put a large number of people into the meat grinder." The general also noted that the loss of Avdiivka does not give the Russians a significant advantage, and it is not a significant defeat for Ukraine. "Let's say they finally captured Avdiivka, and then what? You remember the thousands of people killed around Bakhmut. Then what? There is no famous Red Army corps hiding in the forest and waiting to be used, even if Avdiivka is captured," Ben Godges analyzes. The fighting between Russian and Ukrainian troops for control of Avdiivka demonstrated that the Kiev regime does not have sufficient forces and resources to militarily counter Russia. This point of view was expressed by Chinese military analyst Wei Dongxu. Military correspondent Alexander Sladkov told what the Russian Armed Forces will do after the capture of Avdeevka. And there is no need to rush further. Have you noticed that the 42nd Yevpatoriya Motorized Rifle Division and the 76th Pskov Airborne Assault Division went to Rabotino today? And they will definitely take it. And Orekhov will be taken away, he stands further in the Ukrainian rear. And thus they will move closer to the city of Zaporozhye. And near Donetsk, the forces released from Avdeevka will find use in the Kurakhovsky direction. Well push there and surround the Ukrainian Armed Forces grouping near Ugledar and on the Vremevsky ledge (theyve probably already forgotten, right?). The Ukrainian Armed Forces have confirmed their tradition of getting into the cauldron, Ugledar is another suitable place. It is impossible not to take into account the fact that Russian volunteers are now coming and going to military registration and enlistment offices. And the more successes we have at the front, the more volunteers will come to the Russian army. That is life. And we will be able to start bypassing Kharkov, which we also need, the journalist noted. Nick Paton Walsh, writing for CNN, reported 19 January 2024 "It is a pivotal moment, where both Russian advances and Western atrophy threaten to transform the biggest land war in Europe since the 1940s.... The warnings that Ukraine might suffer setbacks on the frontline if the United States Congress continued to hold up a $60 billion aid package have now curdled into a bitter, brutal reality. The pledges and rhetoric of Munichs suits and limousines have so far amounted to little; in the wait, or abyss, ahead, Ukraine is losing people and land. It is all very real, very immediate and stark.... In and of itself, the Ukrainian defeat Avdiivka does not herald a sea change in Kyivs fortunes. It is only of moderate strategic importance. ... Some analysis has seen Syrskys opening act of withdrawing from Avdiivka as a bid to show he is a more protective custodian of troops lives than his hard man reputation would suggest... The impact of Congresss indecision is already calamitous." According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russian President Putin twice set his army a time frame for capturing the entire territory of the Donetsk region: first, by the fall of 2022 ; later by March 1, 2023 . Neither the first nor the second plan came true. The progress of Russian troops in the Donbass since the beginning of July 2022, when Lysychansk was taken (which means that the entire Luhansk region is occupied), has amounted to a few kilometers; in September 2022, the aggressor's troops began to retreat; only in January 2023 they managed to capture the small town of Soledar , and by May - most of Bakhmut. In Bakhmut the Russian Federation lost one soldier for every 48 centimeters of territory;, where, according to the conclusions of the British Ministry of Defense, and by the end of February 2024 - Avdeevka. Since May 2023, the Defense Forces of Ukraine had been conducting offensive operations in the Bakhmut direction, and since June 2023 they have also broken through the southern front - at the junction of the Donetsk and Zaporozhye regions. However, since October 2023, the Russian Federation had again gone on the attack, pushing in the east on three fronts: Avdeevsko, Kupyansko-Lymansko and Bakhmutsko (only in Ugledarsko its activity is relatively lower), as well as in the south: near Rabotino in the Zaporozhye region. The Russian newspaper Gazeta published a report by writer Anna Gromova on the expected course of events after Russian forces seized the city of Avdiivka on February 17. Dmitry Peskov, press secretary of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stated that Russia continues to advance in the Avdiivka area, saying: Our units are developing an attack and preventing the enemy from gaining a foothold on new lines. For its part, the Russian Ministry of Defense published footage of the attacks on the retreating Ukrainians, confirming that they They retreat along the roads targeted by the Russian army. The Gazeta report indicated that Ukrainian opposition activist Igor Lutsenko commented on the situation, saying, Russia has taken a steady pace of attack. Before Madievka, it was Marinka, Bakhmut, and Northern Lysychansk, and now it is the turn of Korakhovo, Uglidar, Stepnoe, and Kubyansk. Lutsenko did not rule out that Kharkiv and Zaporozhye would be next. There is no limit to where the Russians will stop, after taking such a stable pace. At the conclusion of the report, Gromova pointed out that Elon Musk tweeted on his Twitter account regarding the news that Ukraine lost Avdiivka to Russia, saying, The longer the conflict lasts, the better for Russia. The fall of the city of Avdiivka in Donetsk Province, eastern Ukraine , at the hands of the Russians was not similar to the fall of the city of Bakhmut, which occupied the world months ago. The recent battles were more like flexing muscles and breaking bones, as it turned out, and Bakhmut's fall in the end did not affect the course of the war. The situation is completely different with Avdiivka, as its fall is considered the biggest achievement achieved by the Russians since mid-2022, especially since it opens a path for them towards major residential blocs in the district, almost half of which are under their control, and makes it difficult for the Ukrainians to protect the other half. It also enhances the Russians hopes of regaining control over parts of the city. From neighboring Kharkiv province. Indeed, signs of the matter appeared hours after the fall of Avdiivka, with violent bombardment launched by the Russians on the cities of Kramatorsk and Slovyansk in the far north of Donetsk Province, close to the borders of Kharkiv Province, to which they approached - in practice - about 30 kilometers. This is because the city of Avdiivka is located on the international road H20 leading north to those cities, which was under Ukrainian control a few days ago, and it is a road that also connects to the cities of Izyum in the southeast of Kharkiv Province, and Kubyansk in its far east, where the Russians are mobilizing. Large numbers of troops. Military analyst, Denis Popovich, said in an interview with Al Jazeera Net that the Russians priority is to move north after Avdiivka, because their eyes are on Kramatorsk, the most important city under Ukrainian control in Donetsk, and on the international line and the railway line that connects Russias territory to all the hot battle fronts. Popovich believes that "this strengthens the Russians' hopes of achieving the goal of controlling the entire Donetsk province, and retrying to control Kharkiv as well." To achieve these hopes, geography favors the Russians. Avdiivka, which is described as the gateway to protecting the city of Donetsk under their control (the capital of the province that bears its name), is located at the foot of a high hill, and this enhances the possibility of preserving their new positions there and targeting others. This geography, which helped the Ukrainians to remain steadfast inside the city for 4 months, even though they were surrounded from 3 directions, has today become a reason that will make it difficult for the Ukrainians to regain the city in the near future, according to military analyst, Roman Cvetan. But other Ukrainians look with some positivity at the prospect of defending the rest of Donetsk after the fall of Avdiivka, and they consider that progress after that will not be easy for the Russians. Oleksandr Kovalenko, a political-military analyst in the Media Resistance group, tells Al Jazeera Net, Regardless of the difficulties, we must not forget that we have been defending in those areas since 2014, and since the beginning of the war the Russians have not been able to achieve significant progress as they achieved in other northern and southern provinces. He stressed that "every kilometer of advance in Donetsk costs the Russians thousands of soldiers. Regardless of the difference in numbers and strength, let us not forget that they lost about 48 thousand regular soldiers there, and other villages and cities will not welcome them." In this context, he pointed out that the closest important cities to Avdiivka are Konstantievka, which is 30 kilometers to the north (on the H20 road leading to Kramatorsk), or Pokrovsk, which is 40 kilometers to the west (on the M04 international road). According to Kovalenko, The advance of the Russians is something we realize will be inevitable, but they need a period of rest, recalculation, and regrouping before moving forward, and this currently coincides with their official and media celebrations of achieving control over Avdiivka. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. and U.K. Disrupt LockBit Ransomware Variant Tuesday, February 20, 2024 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs U.S. Indictment Charges Two Russian Nationals with Attacks Against Multiple U.S. and International Victims; FBI Seizes Infrastructure; and Department of Treasury Takes Additional Action Against LockBit The Department of Justice joined the United Kingdom and international law enforcement partners in London today to announce the disruption of the LockBit ransomware group, one of the most active ransomware groups in the world that has targeted over 2,000 victims, received more than $120 million in ransom payments, and made ransom demands totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. The U.K. National Crime Agency's (NCA) Cyber Division, working in cooperation with the Justice Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other international law enforcement partners disrupted LockBit's operations by seizing numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization's infrastructure and seizing control of servers used by LockBit administrators, thereby disrupting the ability of LockBit actors to attack and encrypt networks and extort victims by threatening to publish stolen data. "For years, LockBit associates have deployed these kinds of attacks again and again across the United States and around the world. Today, U.S. and U.K. law enforcement are taking away the keys to their criminal operation," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "And we are going a step further a we have also obtained keys from the seized LockBit infrastructure to help victims decrypt their captured systems and regain access to their data. LockBit is not the first ransomware variant the Justice Department and its international partners have dismantled. It will not be the last." Additionally, the NCA, in cooperation with the FBI and international law enforcement partners, has developed decryption capabilities that may enable hundreds of victims around the world to restore systems encrypted using the LockBit ransomware variant. Beginning today, victims targeted by this malware are encouraged to contact the FBI at https://lockbitvictims.ic3.gov/ to enable law enforcement to determine whether affected systems can be successfully decrypted. "Today's actions are another down payment on our pledge to continue dismantling the ecosystem fueling cybercrime by prioritizing disruptions and placing victims first," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. "Using all our authorities and working alongside partners in the United Kingdom and around the world, we have now destroyed the online backbone of the LockBit group, one of the world's most prolific ransomware gangs. But our work does not stop here: together with our partners, we are turning the tables on LockBit a providing decryption keys, unlocking victim data, and pursuing LockBit's criminal affiliates around the globe." The Justice Department also unsealed an indictment obtained in the District of New Jersey charging Russian nationals Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, also known as Bassterlord, with deploying LockBit against numerous victims throughout the United States, including businesses nationwide in the manufacturing and other industries, as well as victims around the world in the semiconductor and other industries. Today, additional criminal charges against Kondratyev were unsealed in the Northern District of California related to his deployment in 2020 of ransomware against a victim located in California. Finally, the Department also unsealed two search warrants issued in the District of New Jersey that authorized the FBI to disrupt multiple U.S.-based servers used by LockBit members in connection with the LockBit disruption. As disclosed by those search warrants, those servers were used by LockBit administrators to host the so-called "StealBit" platform, a criminal tool used by LockBit members to organize and transfer victim data. "Today, the FBI and our partners have successfully disrupted the LockBit criminal ecosystem, which represents one of the most prolific ransomware variants across the globe," said FBI Director Christopher A. Wray. "Through years of innovative investigative work, the FBI and our partners have significantly degraded the capabilities of those hackers responsible for launching crippling ransomware attacks against critical infrastructure and other public and private organizations around the world. This operation demonstrates both our capability and commitment to defend our nation's cybersecurity and national security from any malicious actor who seeks to impact our way of life. We will continue to work with our domestic and international allies to identify, disrupt, and deter cyber threats, and to hold the perpetrators accountable." According to the indictment obtained in the District of New Jersey, from at least as early as January 2021, Sungatov allegedly deployed LockBit ransomware against victim corporations and took steps to fund additional LockBit attacks against other victims. Sungatov allegedly deployed LockBit ransomware against manufacturing, logistics, insurance, and other companies located in Minnesota, Indiana, Puerto Rico, Wisconsin, Florida, and New Mexico. Additionally, as early as August 2021, Kondratyev similarly began to allegedly deploy LockBit against multiple victims. Kondratyev, operating under the online alias "Bassterlord," allegedly deployed LockBit against municipal and private targets in Oregon, Puerto Rico, and New York, as well as additional targets located in Singapore, Taiwan, and Lebanon. Both Sungatov and Kondratyev are alleged to have joined in the global LockBit conspiracy, also alleged to have included Russian nationals Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev and Mikhail Vasiliev, as well as other LockBit members, to develop and deploy LockBit ransomware and to extort payments from victim corporations. "Today's indictment, unsealed as part of a global coordinated action against the most active ransomware group in the world, brings to five the total number of LockBit members charged by my office and our FBI and Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section partners for their crimes," said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger for the District of New Jersey. "And, even with today's disruption of LockBit, we will not stop there. Our investigation will continue, and we remain as determined as ever to identify and charge all of LockBit's membership a from its developers and administrators to its affiliates. We will put a spotlight on them as wanted criminals. They will no longer hide in the shadows." With the indictment unsealed today, a total of five LockBit members have now been charged for their participation in the LockBit conspiracy. In May 2023, two indictments were unsealed in Washington, D.C., and the District of New Jersey charging Matveev with using different ransomware variants, including LockBit, to attack numerous victims throughout the United States, including the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department. Matveev is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State's Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at https://tips.fbi.gov. In November 2022, a criminal complaint was filed in the District of New Jersey charging Vasiliev in connection with his participation in the LockBit global ransomware campaign. Vasiliev, a dual Russian-Canadian national, is currently in custody in Canada awaiting extradition to the United States. In June 2023, Russian national Ruslan Magomedovich Astamirov was charged by criminal complaint in the District of New Jersey for his participation in the LockBit conspiracy, including his deployment of LockBit against victims in Florida, Japan, France, and Kenya. Astamirov is currently in custody in the United States awaiting trial. Kondratyev, according to the indictment obtained in the Northern District of California and unsealed today, is also charged with three criminal counts arising from his use of the Sodinokibi, also known as REvil, ransomware variant to encrypt data, exfiltrate victim information, and extort a ransom payment from a corporate victim based in Alameda County, California. The LockBit ransomware variant first appeared around January 2020 and, leading into today's operation, had grown into one of the most active and destructive variants in the world. LockBit members have executed attacks against more than 2,000 victims in the United States and around the world, making at least hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars in ransom demands and receiving over $120 million in ransom payments. The LockBit ransomware variant, like other major ransomware variants, operates in the "ransomware-as-a-service" (RaaS) model, in which administrators, also called developers, design the ransomware, recruit other members a called affiliates a to deploy it, and maintain an online software dashboard called a "control panel" to provide the affiliates with the tools necessary to deploy LockBit. Affiliates, in turn, identify and unlawfully access vulnerable computer systems, sometimes through their own hacking or at other times by purchasing stolen access credentials from others. Using the control panel operated by the developers, affiliates then deploy LockBit within the victim computer system, allowing them to encrypt and steal data for which a ransom is demanded to decrypt or avoid publication on a public website maintained by the LockBit developers, often called a data leak site. The FBI Newark Field Office is investigating the LockBit ransomware variant. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew M. Trombly, David E. Malagold, and Vinay Limbachia for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorneys Jessica C. Peck, Debra Ireland, and Jorge Gonzalez of the Criminal Division's Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the charges against Sungatov and Kondratyev unsealed today in the District of New Jersey. The Justice Department's Cybercrime Liaison Prosecutor to Eurojust and Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance. The disruption announced today was the result of a joint operation between the FBI; NCA South West Regional Organised Crime Unit; France's Gendarmerie Nationale Cyberspace Command; Germany's Landeskriminalamt Schleswig-Holstein and the Bundeskriminalamt; Switzerland's Federal Office of Police, Public Prosecutor's Office of the Canton of Zurich, and Zurich Cantonal Police; Japan's National Policy Agency; Australian Federal Police; Sweden's Polismyndighetens; Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Politie Dienst Regionale Recherche Oost-Brabant of the Netherlands; Finland's Poliisi; Europol; and Eurojust. The FBI Phoenix Field Office and Assistant U.S. Attorney Helen L. Gilbert are investigating and prosecuting the case against Kondratyev in the Northern District of California. Additionally, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control announced today that it is designating Sungatov and Kondratyev for their roles in launching cyberattacks. As mentioned above, victims of LockBit should contact the FBI at https://lockbitvictims.ic3.gov for further information. Additional details on protecting networks against LockBit ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov. These include Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisories AA23-325A, AA23-165A, and AA23-075A. An indictment is merely an allegation. Under U.S. law, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Indictment Topic: Cybercrime Components: Office of the Attorney General Criminal Division Criminal - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section Criminal - Office of International Affairs Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Office of the Deputy Attorney General USAO - California, Northern USAO - New Jersey Press Release Number: 24-194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address British, U.S. Law Enforcement Agencies Disrupt Ransomware Group Linked To Russia By RFE/RL February 20, 2024 U.S. and British officials on February 20 announced that they had infiltrated and disrupted a Russian-linked ransomware cybercrime group known as LockBit, arresting two Russian nationals in Poland and Ukraine, and indicting two others in the United States. "We have hacked the hackers," Graeme Biggar, director-general of the National Crime Agency (NCA), said at a news conference in London, calling the LockBit ransomware syndicate "the world's most harmful cyber crime group" and saying it extracted $120 million from thousands of victims around the world in the four years since its founding. Biggar said the NCA worked with the FBI, Europol, and agencies from nine other countries in Operation Cronos, which authorities said gained access to LockBit's systems by taking control of the gang's infrastructure and seizing their source code. Hours before the announcement, the front page of LockBit's site on the so-called dark web was replaced with the words "this site is now under control of law enforcement" alongside the flags of Britain, the United States, and several other nations. The United States on February 20 also unsealed an indictment against two Russian nationals, Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, bringing to five the number of Russians it has indicted in connection with LockBit. The U.S. Treasury Department also imposed sanctions against Sungatov and Kondratyev. In May 2023, the United States offered a $10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of one of the other indicted Russians, Mikhail Pavlovich Matveev. Two others have been taken into custody - one in Canada and one in the United States. The U.S. Justice Department said the law enforcement agencies involved in Operation Cronos had seized control of numerous websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization's infrastructure and had taken control of servers used by LockBit administrators. Lockbit was a "ransomware-as-a-service" operation, which cybersecurity experts say is a model that leases software and methods to others on the dark web, where they pitch their services for use in the extortion schemes. In a typical ransomware cyberattack, the cybercriminals hack into an entity's system and steal or freeze sensitive data, refusing to release it until a ransom is paid. LockBit and its affiliates targeted governments, major companies, schools, and hospitals, causing billions of dollars of damage and extracting tens of millions in ransoms from victims, officials said. Biggar said the network had been behind 25 percent of all cyberattacks in the past year. Those targeted have included Britain's Royal Mail, U.S. aircraft manufacturer Boeing, and a Canadian children's hospital. Officials told reporters the gang targeted 2,000 victims worldwide, but also noted that the actual number is probably larger because victims generally resist admitting publicly that they have been targeted and have paid the ransom. Biggar said a "large concentration" of the cybercriminals are in Russia and are Russian-speaking, indicating "some tolerance of cybercriminality within Russia." But he said law enforcement agencies had not seen any direct support for LockBit from the Russian state. The NCA has previously warned that ransomware remains one of the biggest cyberthreats facing Britain and urges people and organizations not to pay ransoms if they are targeted. With reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/lockbit-ransomware-group- disrupted-russia/32827997.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 The European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) marked its first anniversary on Tuesday 20 February. February 21, 2024, 10:39 EU mission in Armenia marks its first anniversary FEBRUARY 21, ARTSAKHPRESS: The mission said it had conducted over 1720 patrols on the Armenian side of the border with Azerbaijan. "EUMA was honoured to host Civilian Operations Commander Stefano Tomat on patrol in Jermuk. Regardless of the weather conditions, the Mission continues its patrolling activities. Today marks the 1st anniversary of EUMA. To this day, the Mission has conducted over 1720 patrols," the mission posted on X. United States Sanctions Affiliates of Russia-Based LockBit Ransomware Group U.S. Department of the Treasury February 20, 2024 The United States imposes sanctions on affiliates of group responsible for ransomware attacks on the U.S. financial sector WASHINGTON -- Today, the United States is designating two individuals who are affiliates of the Russia-based ransomware group LockBit. This action is the first in an ongoing collaborative effort with the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and our international partners targeting LockBit. "The United States will not tolerate attempts to extort and steal from our citizens and institutions," said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. "We will continue our whole-of-government approach to defend against malicious cyber activities, and will use all available tools to hold the actors that enable these threats accountable." Russia continues to offer safe harbor for cybercriminals where groups such as LockBit are free to launch ransomware attacks against the United States, its allies, and partners. These ransomware attacks have targeted critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and financial institutions. Notably, LockBit was responsible for the November 2023 ransomware attack against the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China's (ICBC) U.S. broker-dealer. The United States is a global leader in the fight against cybercrime and is committed to using all available authorities and tools to defend Americans from cyber threats. In addition to the actions announced today, the U.S. government provides critical resources to support potential victims in protecting against and responding to ransomware attacks. For example, last year, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency in conjunction with other U.S. Departments and Agencies and foreign partners published two cybersecurity advisories, "Understanding Ransomware Threat Actors: LockBit" and "LockBit 3.0 Ransomware Affiliates Exploit CVE 2023-4966 Citrix Bleed Vulnerability." These advisories detail the threats posed by this group and provide recommendations to reduce the likelihood and impact of future ransomware incidents. This action follows other recent actions taken by the U.S. against Russian cybercriminals, including the recent trilateral designation of Alexander Ermakov, a Russian national involved in the 2022 ransomware attack against Medibank Private Limited, in coordination with Australia and the United Kingdom and last year's bilateral sanctions actions against the Trickbot Cybercrime Group with the United Kingdom. Russia has enabled ransomware attacks by cultivating and co-opting criminal hackers. Treasury has previously stressed that Russia must take concrete steps to prevent cyber criminals from freely operating in its jurisdiction. Today's actions reflect the United States' commitment to combatting cybercrime and pursuing the bad actors that target victims across the United States, its allies, and its partners. LOCKBIT: A MALICIOUS RUSSIAN RANSOMWARE GROUP LockBit is a Russia-based ransomware group first observed in 2019 and best known for its ransomware variant of the same name. LockBit operates on a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model, where the group licenses its ransomware software to affiliated cybercriminals in exchange for a percentage of the paid ransoms. LockBit is known for its double extortion tactics, where its cybercriminals exfiltrate vast amounts of data from its victims before encrypting the victim's computer systems and demanding ransom payments. LockBit was the most deployed ransomware variant globally in 2022 and remains prolific today. OFAC's investigation identified LockBit as responsible for the ransomware attack on ICBC, which occurred on November 9, 2023. The ransomware attack disrupted ICBC's U.S. broker-dealer, affecting the settlement of over $9 billion worth of assets backed by Treasury securities. The ransomware attack caused a blackout of ICBC's computer systems, resulting in a loss of e-mail and communications. ICBC's inability to access its systems caused securities to be delivered for settlement with no funds backing the trades. OFAC TARGETS AFFILIATES OF LOCKBIT RANSOMWARE GROUP Ivan Gennadievich Kondratiev, a Russian national located in Novomokovsk, Russia, is a LockBit affiliate and leader of the LockBit affiliate sub-group, the National Hazard Society. Kondratiev is commonly known in the cybercriminal world as "Bassterlord" and "Fisheye," and he also has ties to REvil, RansomEXX and Avaddon ransomware groups. Kondratiev has actively engaged in LockBit ransomware attacks. Artur Sungatov, a Russian national, is a Lockbit ransomware group affiliate and has actively engaged in LockBit ransomware attacks. OFAC is designating each of these individuals pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757, for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly, an activity described in subsection (a)(ii)(D) of section 1 of E.O. 13694, as amended. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons. In addition, persons that engage in certain transactions with the individuals designated today may themselves be exposed to designation. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from its ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer to OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here. See OFAC's Updated Advisory on Potential Sanctions Risk for Facilitating Ransomware Payments for information on the actions that OFAC would consider to be mitigating factors in any related enforcement action involving ransomware payments with a potential sanctions risk. For information on complying with sanctions applicable to virtual currency, see OFAC's Sanctions Compliance Guidance for the Virtual Currency Industry. For more information on the individuals designated today, click here. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy Secretary General: NATO is strengthening its partnership with the space industry NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 20 Feb. 2024 Speaking at NATO's first Space Reverse Industry Day on Tuesday (20 February 2024), Deputy Secretary General Mircea GeoanA highlighted the importance of cooperation with commercial space industry to ensure Alliance security. "This is not a job for NATO alone. It is something we must do together," he said. Faced with ever-fiercer world competition and fast-evolving technological innovation, Allies have to enhance their defences and resilience in the space domain. The Space Reverse Industry Day gave space companies the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and help shape NATO's commercial space agenda. Discussions ranged from addressing commercial challenges with public sector organisations; exploring initiatives for new multinational space investments; considering space innovation activities through DIANA, to streamlining and enhancing space standardization and interoperability. Space companies from 21 NATO nations took part in the event, from satellite manufacturer and satellite communications companies to space robotics companies developing in-orbit servicing technologies. A large majority included start-ups, small- and medium-enterprises and non-traditional defence companies. NATO's first space policy was approved in 2019, and space officially became an operational domain that same year. Eighteen NATO Allies and Sweden will soon launch the "Alliance Persistent Surveillance from Space" initiative, which will help increase NATO's data collection and use from commercial and national satellites and enhance NATO's intelligence and surveillance picture. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Always Against Deployment of Nuclear Weapons in Space - Putin Sputnik News 20240220 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia has always been against deployment of nuclear weapons in space, President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday during a meeting with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. "Our position is clear and transparent. We have always been categorically against the placement of nuclear weapons in space," Putin said, adding that Russian activities in space are no different from that of other countries, including the US, and they "know about it." Russia never refused dialogue on the strategic stability, Putin added. Last week, US Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said that the White House confirmed that the national security threat stems from Russia's ongoing development of anti-satellite capabilities. Later, US President Joe Biden instructed his team to initiate direct diplomatic contacts with Russia in connection with the "security threat" related to Russia. Kirby added that while Russia's development of this particular capability is concerning, it does not pose an immediate threat to anyone's safety. President Biden then went on to admit that Russian anti-satellite technology does not pose any nuclear threat to Americans or anyone else in the world. "There is no nuclear threat to the people of America or anywhere else in the world with what Russia is doing at the moment," Biden told reporters. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address About 32,000 NATO Troops Deployed Near Russia, Belarus Borders - Lukashenko Sputnik News 20240220 MINSK (Sputnik) - About 32,000 NATO soldiers, over 1,000 armored vehicles, 235 airplanes and helicopters are deployed near Russia's and Belarus's borders, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Tuesday. "The situation is no calmer on the European continent, including near our borders. In the immediate vicinity of Belarus and Russia, as part of the alliance's operations in Europe, about 32,000 soldiers of the contingents of the united armed forces of NATO and the United States are stationed. There are more than 1,000 armored vehicles, about 160 artillery systems and mortars, 235 airplanes and helicopters," Lukashenko was quoted as saying by the Pul Pervogo Telegram channel. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Georgia and Serbia will be drawn into NATO just like the scenario of the situation in Ukraine, Lukashenko added. In recent years, Russia has witnessed unprecedented NATO activity near its western borders. Moscow has repeatedly expressed concern about the alliance's buildup of forces in Europe, especially since the bloc supported the Kiev regime amid its attacks on Donbass. Since the start of Russia's special military operation, NATO countries have supplied Ukraine with military equipment. Moscow has repeatedly stressed that any Western weapons in Ukraine will become legitimate targets for Russian strikes. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Netherlands may lose top chip market amid crackdown on China: analysts Global Times By Ma Jingjing Published: Feb 20, 2024 09:19 PM Chinese analysts rebuked a Dutch official's claim that China aims to seek military advantages from Netherlands-based ASML's chipmaking tools, saying that the Dutch government's crackdown on China's chip industry - under pressure from the US - may come with a heavy price for the Netherlands, which could lose one of the world's largest chip markets. "China focuses on foreign expertise, including Dutch expertise in the field of lithography, to promote self-sufficiency in its military-technical development," Reuters reported on Monday, citing Dutch Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen's note about why the government revoked ASML's export licenses. Van Leeuwen said that ASML tools are used to make advanced semiconductors that can go into "high-value weapons systems and weapons of mass destruction" and the Dutch government focuses on "the risk of undesirable end use" when reviewing export licensing decisions, the report said. ASML declined to comment when reached by the Global Times on Tuesday. "It's the Dutch government's excuse, claiming that China uses Dutch chipmaking technologies in military areas," Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Beijing-based Information Consumption Alliance, told the Global Times on Tuesday. The Dutch government has made the move obviously under intensifying pressure from the US, Xiang said. "Imposing restrictions on China's chip sector will do great harm to the Netherlands. In the second half of 2023, ASML's exports of lithography equipment to China accounted for more than 40 percent of the company's revenue, underlying the importance of the Chinese market," he said. The Chinese side urged the Dutch side to take concrete actions to protect the shared interests of China and the Netherlands and the companies of the two countries, and safeguard the stability of international industrial and supply chains and the free, open, fair and non-discriminatory international trade environment, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a press conference in January. Xiang said there will be about 10 semiconductor factories starting up in China, and thus the country's self-supply of chips will further increase to about 30-35 percent this year. "By 2025, the country will have a total of about 60 such factories, with the country's production capacity of semiconductors accounting for around 50 percent globally by then," he said. With an increased self-supply ratio, China may further cut imports of semiconductors this year, Xiang said, noting that this may have a profound impact on the global industrial and supply chains, especially the supply from the US and South Korea. Under pressure from the US, the Dutch government in 2023 introduced a licensing requirement for ASML's shipments of its most advanced deep ultraviolet lithography machines. On January 2, ASML said that the Dutch government had partially revoked an export license for the shipment of some chipmaking equipment to China, according to a press release sent to the Global Times. Exports of NXT:2050i and NXT:2100i lithography systems in 2023 were affected, the company said. ASML said then that it projected that the cancelation of export licenses and new US export restrictions would not have large impact on its 2023 financial results. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on February 20, 2024 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China 2024-02-20 17:55 China Daily: China exported 4.91 million automobiles last year (excluding second-hand cars), making it the world's largest automobile exporter for the first time. According to the statistics recently released by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, in January, China exported 443,000 automobiles, up by 47.4 percent year on year, maintaining the momentum of rapid growth. We also noticed that the US is considering restricting imports of Chinese smart cars and related components by non-tariff means. The EU has launched an anti-subsidy investigation into the imports of electric cars from China. What's your comment? Mao Ning: The numbers you mentioned reflect the high-quality development and strong innovation of China's manufacturing industry. Division of labor and mutually beneficial collaboration are distinctive features of the auto industrial chain. The leapfrog development of China's auto industry has provided cost-effective products with high quality to the world. Every one in three exported automobiles from China is an electric car, which contributes significantly to the world's green and low-carbon transition. You mentioned the trade protectionist measures taken by relevant countries against China, just as Minister Wang Yi pointed out, to turn normal trade activities into security and ideological issues, build "small yards with high fences" in the name of "de-risking", and attempt to "trip others up" instead of "running faster" may seem like a win, but is actually a loss of one's own long-term development and has encumbered the progress and prosperity of the world. China believes in solidarity, cooperation and openness rather than division, confrontation and isolation. We believe it's important to accommodate the interests of others while pursuing one's own, work for common development while seeking one's own development, create a world-class, market-oriented and law-based environment for global economic and trade cooperation, and make economic globalization more inclusive and beneficial to all. CCTV: Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting Spain. King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro SAnchez met with him respectively. Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation JosA Manuel Albares Bueno held talks and jointly met the press. This is Foreign Minister Wang Yi's first visit after the Chinese New Year. What major outcomes has this visit achieved, and what role has it played in the development of the China-Spain relations? Mao Ning: China and Spain are comprehensive strategic partners. Last year, the two countries marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and Prime Minister Pedro SAnchez paid a successful visit to China. While meeting with Prime Minister SAnchez, President Xi Jinping proposed that the two countries advance a bilateral relationship with strategic focus. The two sides identified the good experience that has enabled the long-standing friendship between the two countries, which is a commitment to mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and made plans together for the growth of bilateral relations. Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Spain is his second visit to the country in six years. It is aimed to deliver the important common understandings between the leaders of the two countries and get the second 50 years of China-Spain diplomatic relations off to a good start. Spain received Foreign Minister Wang with great hospitality. The visit achieved its objectives and has been a full success. The visit accentuated the strategic stability of China-Spain relations. No matter how the international situation changes, China and Spain have followed the tradition of mutual respect, mutual trust, equality and win-win cooperation, advanced bilateral relations with a steadfast policy of friendship, and supported each other on issues of core interests and major concerns. Having friendly relations with China is a consensus in Spain supported by the royal family, the government and the people. The two sides agreed to continue the momentum of high-level exchanges, cultivate friendship between Chinese and Spanish peoples, give each other understanding and support on efforts to safeguard national unity and solidarity among ethnic groups. Spain reiterated its firm adherence to the one-China policy. The visit highlighted the bright prospects for open cooperation. China and Spain have deepened economic and trade cooperation in recent years. China has become Spain's largest trading partner outside the EU and the second largest consumer of its olive oil. Spain is China's second largest source of imported pork. Chinese companies have actively participated in photovoltaic and wind power development in Spain, and expanded third-party market cooperation. During the visit, the two sides reiterated that they will adhere to open cooperation and promote a number of landmark and demonstrative projects in telecommunications, medical care, electric vehicles and green energy. The visit served to deepen exchanges and mutual learning between two civilizations. Both China and Spain are ancient civilizations with a time-honored history. Last year, the two sides launched the China-Spain Year of Culture and Tourism, which gave fresh boost to exchanges and mutual learning between the two civilizations. The two sides have been engaged in giant panda cooperation for more than 40 years. The giant pandas living in Spain have bred six cubs in recent years, more than anywhere else in Europe. Giant panda cooperation epitomizes the China-Spain and China-Europe friendship. The Spanish people warmly welcome and expressed appreciation for China's announcement that it will send a new pair of young pandas to Spain after the return of the panda family currently living in Spain whose agreement has expired. The visit provides stability for China-Europe relations and the world. Spain is a major EU country, China and Spain share the same or similar views on major international and regional issues. Spain stressed that good relations with China are of great significance to Spain, Europe and the world, and spoke highly of President Xi Jinping's important ideas such as building a community with a shared future for mankind and the Belt and Road Initiative. The two sides reiterated that they will work together to meet global challenges, promote the sound and stable development of China-Europe relations through China-Spain friendship, and provide a stronger force of stability for a volatile and turbulent world. AFP: Taiwanese authorities called on Beijing to be rational following the incident that involved the Chinese boat and Taiwanese coast guard. Taiwan also said that it will insist to protect its waters. Do you have any comment on this? Mao Ning: This is not a matter related to foreign affairs. I'd refer you to competent authorities. TASS: CNBC reported that the US is considering slapping sanctions on Chinese companies for working with Russia. What is China's comment on this? Mao Ning: We follow an objective and impartial position on the Ukraine crisis, and has worked actively to promote peace talks. We have not sat idly by, still less exploited the situation for selfish gains. China has the right to carry out normal cooperation with countries. We always oppose unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction that lack basis in international law or UN Security Council mandate. China will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. AFP: The Brazilian presidency said that Minister Wang Yi won't attend the G20 meeting in Rio this week. What's the reason and who will be China's representative for this meeting? Mao Ning: China values the role played by the G20. We will send a delegation to the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Detailed information will be released in due course. We hope that the meeting will help the G20 further build consensus and enhance solidarity and cooperation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Group launches legal center to fight China's 'long-arm' enforcement The center will teach lawyers, policymakers and journalists how to stop Beijing targeting its dissidents overseas. By Jing Wei for RFA Mandarin 2024.02.20 -- An overseas rights group is fighting back against China's "long-arm" pursuit of dissidents and activists in exile with a free legal advice service. The Spanish-based group Safeguard Defenders, which has previously warned the world about China's secret police stations, its network of "consular volunteers" and its targeting of dissidents and activists overseas, has now launched a "one-stop shop" legal advice center to help fight transnational repression by Beijing. The group's Information and Help Center is "a one-stop shop primarily aimed at legal practitioners defending individuals from extraditions to China," but also contains information for use by government officials and journalists, according to its website. Launched on Feb. 13, the resource center offers help in all six United Nations languages based on the group's experience in countering extraditions and deportations to China, including appeals to district, appeal and Supreme court level, as well as input from academics specializing in the Chinese criminal justice system. The group claims a 100% success rate in assisting to block extraditions and deportations in cases it has been directly involved in. "This new help center is a potential game changer, as it makes incredibly detailed information about China, in particular as it relates specifically to extradition issues, available, for free, in a variety of languages, for all legal counsel as well as the targets themselves," the group said in a statement launching the center. Such information was previously only available to people with the means to hire specialized lawyers, it said. It called on all jurisdictions to end extraditions to China, an issue which sparked a mass popular uprising in Hong Kong in 2019. "Considering the state of the Chinese criminal justice system, extradition requests should fail when tested against international legal commitments," Safeguard Defenders said. "Whenever they are approved, those very norms and institutions are weakened. To protect the Rule of Law, extraditions to China must end." It added: "It should be up to China to improve its commitment to legally binding minimum standards if it wants the benefits of extradition cooperation, not for the rest of the world to lower theirs." China's extradition treaties Ma Ju, a Chinese Muslim scholar living in the United States, said China has long made use of international legal mechanisms to pursue dissidents overseas. "The former president of Interpol was previously the vice minister of public security," Ma said. "During that period ... China took advantage of certain agreements between international organizations to carry out their transnational repression." "They have kept a slightly lower profile in the past couple of years, but they haven't slowed their pace," he said. State media reported recently that China now has 60 extradition treaties with foreign jurisdictions across Europe, Africa, Australia, and North and South America, some 40% of which were concluded after ruling Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping took power in 2012. Since 2012, the country has successfully extradited more than 400 people, according to a China News Service report citing Ma Xinmin, Director of the Treaty and Law Department at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ma Ju cited the repatriation of Chinese human rights lawyer Lu Siwei from neighboring Laos in 2023, which prompted an international outcry. He welcomed the Safeguard Defenders help center, saying it was sorely needed. "A lot of countries, including those in Europe and the United States, aren't yet fully aware of the many facets of China's transnational repression, or its use of extradition and other methods to target dissidents and ethnic or sexual minorities, any opponents," Ma said. "The agreements it has signed still serve the needs of the authoritarian and dictatorial Chinese government." Chinese rights attorney Lu Siwei was repatriated to China last September after being arrested in Laos en route to join his family in the United States, along with dozens of other Chinese nationals, activists and relatives said at the time. U.S.-based rights lawyer Wu Shaoping said the effectiveness of the information center had yet to be tested in practice, but said it would be a "blessing" for anyone being persecuted by China while in another country. "At least people will be able to provide them with more professional services to prevent them from being extradited by Beijing," Wu said. "It gives many people threatened with extradition an extra layer of protection." Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Roseanne Gerin. 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 Dutch government withdraws permits for ASML to export to China The firm's tools can be used for China's military power, raising 'risk of undesirable end use,' says minister. By Li Heung-yeung for RFA Cantonese 2024.02.20 -- The Netherlands has decided to withdraw permits for ASML, the leader in semiconductor equipment manufacturing, to export its equipment to China on fears it may be used for military purposes. In a written response to questions from members of parliament, Dutch Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen said that China is focusing on foreign expertise, including Dutch expertise in the field of lithography, to promote self-sufficiency in its military-technical development ASML tools can be used to make advanced semiconductors that can go into "high value weapons systems and weapons of mass destruction," and the Dutch government is focused on "the risk of undesirable end use" when reviewing export licensing decisions, van Leeuwen said in a written note cited by Reuters. Netherlands-based ASML dominates the world market for lithography systems, needed by computer chip makers to help create circuitry. The minister was questioned by a lawmaker on why the government initially granted, then quickly retracted, a license for ASML to export various equipment to undisclosed customers in China. He did not respond directly to the question, but only said several licenses to export advanced equipment to China were granted since the licensing requirement was introduced in September. About 20 similar applications are expected this year, without a breakdown of how many for China. Under pressure from the United States, the Netherlands last year required ASML to apply for licenses to export its mid-range deep ultraviolet lithography machines. The company's most advanced tools have not been sold in China. On Jan. 1 this year, ASML confirmed that some of its export permits for equipment to China were revoked. According to regulations, the company said it will not export any NXT:2000i or more advanced equipment to China, and due to U.S. restrictions, the company also cannot export NXT:1970 and NXT:1980i products to "a small number" of Chinese manufacturers. Translated by RFA staff. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. 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 'Stop harassing' Chinese students, Beijing tells US American officials say any deportations of Chinese students are not for political reasons. By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.02.20 -- Chinese Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong has accused U.S. authorities of "harassing" Chinese students studying in America and called for law enforcement to instead work harder to "ensure the safety" of Chinese diplomatic personnel sent to the United States. The comments came during talks with Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas in Vienna on Sunday, according to a report by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua. Both Wang and Mayorkas were in Austria after attending the Munich Security Conference in Germany. The meeting was ostensibly about renewed cooperation between China and the United States to stem outflows from China of precursors for the synthetic opioid fentanyl, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security called those talks "candid and constructive." "The two sides also made commitments with respect to continued law enforcement cooperation, technical bilateral exchanges between scientists and other experts, scheduling of precursor chemicals, and furthering multilateral cooperation," it said in a statement. U.S. and Chinese law enforcement officials held the first meeting of the new bilateral Counternarcotics Working Group on Jan. 30, following an agreement struck by U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their high-profile summit in San Francisco last year. However, the Xinhua report said Wang "also urged the U.S. side to stop harassing and interrogating Chinese students for no reason, and ensure that Chinese citizens enjoy fair entry, treatment and full dignity." The report said that Wang also called for the United States to stop officially listing China as a "major drug source country," and to "take concrete and effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese diplomatic and consular missions and personnel" in America. The statement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security noted only that the pair discussed "areas of concern within the bilateral relationship" and agreed to continue discussions on the matters. Claims of harassment Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin last month accused the United States of deporting "tens" of Chinese students from the United States after detaining and interrogating them for hours, with many having arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport. Wenbin described the deportations as "political" and said the students were detained for hours without being allowed to contact anyone, despite having obtained the correct visas to study in America. But the U.S State Department, which by policy does not comment on individual visa cases, has said that any decision to deny entry to a Chinese student would not have been for political reasons. U.S. officials have also noted the comparatively large number of Chinese students who have gained entry without any issues. "We have about 300,000 Chinese students studying in the United States," said deputy spokesman Vedant Patel at a Feb. 5 press briefing, calling for more students to study in the United States. "Our visa process is quite rigorous and quite solid," he said. "Without speaking to anybody's specific visa circumstance, the process is adjudicated in the utmost strict, rigorous, and legal manner." Beijing's complaints follow warnings from the United States last year that Americans considering visiting China should reconsider their travel due to the growing number of "exit bans" on people trying to leave. Meanwhile, Chinese students studying in the United States have complained of being monitored and harassed by other Chinese nationals after expressing criticisms of China's government. A Georgetown University student told a congressional hearing in December that the harassment made him feel that "no matter where in the world you are ... you're never free" of Beijing's grasp. 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 French President Macron meets Chinese FM Wang Yi, expresses anticipation for high-level exchanges in 2024 Global Times By Global Times Published: Feb 21, 2024 07:44 AM French President Emmanuel Macron met with visiting member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Paris on Tuesday local time. Macron fondly recalled his successful visit to China last year, expressing anticipation for jointly preparing for this year's high-level exchanges with the Chinese side. Wang first conveyed warm regards from Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that the leaders of the two countries have established a strong mutual trust and sincere friendship, guiding the direction of bilateral strategic cooperation and exerting significant positive influence on the world. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, which holds important significance for carrying forward the past and ushering in the future. Both sides should seize this opportunity to summarize the extraordinary journey the two countries have traveled, promote beneficial experiences and successful practices, and jointly plan the next 60 years of China-France relations. We are willing to work with France to uphold our original aspirations, maintain determination, deepen cooperation, and explore opportunities for the future, the Chinese Foreign Minister said. Wang also emphasized that pragmatic cooperation between China and France has brought significant benefits to the people of both countries. China adheres to high-quality development and promotes high-level opening-up. It will continue to open its markets to countries worldwide, including France, and hopes that France will also create a fair and just business environment for Chinese enterprises in France, providing positive and stable long-term expectations. Macron asked Wang to convey sincere regards to President Xi and wished the Chinese people a smooth Year of the Dragon. Macron fondly recalled his successful visit to China last year and expressed his anticipation for jointly preparing for this year's high-level exchanges with China. He hoped that both sides will take the opportunity of the China-France strategic dialogue to implement the important consensus reached between him and President Xi and further develop a lasting and close relationship between France and China. France has consistently adhered to the one-China policy, which is clear and unequivocal. Faced with global challenges, France upholds strategic autonomy and is willing to strengthen strategic cooperation with China to jointly safeguard peace and stability, Macron said. Wang arrived in France after attending the 60th Munich Security Conference and concluding his visit to Spain. The current international situation is fraught with turmoil, complex and unresolved hot issues, slow economic recovery, and various challenges. China and France, both being independent and sovereign powers, permanent members of the UN Security Council, and important forces in a multipolar world, should enhance strategic coordination, deepen strategic cooperation, and contribute to global peace and stability, Wang told Macron. China appreciates France's commitment to independence and autonomy and hopes that France will continue to play a constructive role in promoting healthy and stable development in China-EU relations, enhancing mutual trust, promoting convergence of interests, and jointly becoming a stabilizing force in today's world, he said. Also on Tuesday local time, Wang and French President's Diplomatic Adviser Emmanuel Bonne co-chaired the 25th China-France Strategic Dialogue in Paris. Both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation in addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity, artificial intelligence and aerospace and so on. They also agreed on increasing the frequency of direct flights, and further facilitate people-to-people exchanges. Bonne said that strategic communication between France and China has been highly effective, and the results of high-level exchanges have been fruitful. France attaches great importance to the comprehensive strategic partnership with China and will continue to adhere to the one-China policy, the French official said. Also, faced with the current international turmoil and geopolitical conflicts, France is willing to work hand in hand with China to address challenges, avoid great power confrontation, prevent bloc confrontation, and improve global governance, he noted. France advocates for strategic autonomy in Europe and is ready to take on responsibilities. It supports Europe and China in maintaining their partnership position and strengthening effective cooperation, Bonne said. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, mutual trust has continued to strengthen, and consensus has continued to expand, leading to increasingly mature and stable bilateral relations, Wang told at the strategic dialogue. Over the past 60 years, the world has undergone tremendous changes, but China and France's commitment to independence and autonomy, pursuit of multipolarity, and cherishment of cultural diversity have never wavered, Wang said. Standing at a new historical starting point, both sides should join hands, guided by the strategic consensus between the two heads of state, adhere to their original aspirations, innovate while staying true to the principles, and make the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership more solid and dynamic. This will contribute more to the development of China-EU relations and make unremitting efforts for world peace, he said. The Chinese senior diplomat also noted that global turmoil and even division are not in the interest of any party. China regards Europe as an important pole in the multipolarization process and supports Europe in enhancing its strategic autonomy, ensuring that its future and destiny are in its own hands, Wang said. China and France share similar positions on major issues, and China is willing to strengthen strategic communication with France, build more consensus, enhance unity and cooperation, demonstrate great power responsibility, send strong signals, and more effectively address global challenges and respond positively to international expectations, he added. Both parties agreed to further strengthen cooperation in addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity, sustainable development, agricultural products, clean energy, nuclear energy research and development, artificial intelligence, aerospace, forest carbon sinks, and other areas. They also agreed to continue the positive momentum of cultural and educational exchanges between China and France throughout the year, organize hundreds of cultural exchange activities, increase the frequency of direct flights, and further facilitate people-to-people exchanges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Commentary By Gabriel Giguere Oscar Wilde once observed that bureaucracy expands to meet the needs of the expanding bureaucracy. This would seem to be the maxim driving Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus approach to the size of the federal government and its out-of-control growth almost from the day he took office. By the most recent count, the Canadian government had 357,247 public servants. If all these federal employees were gathered into a single municipality, it would be the 16th most populous in the country, ahead of the city of Markham on the outskirts of Toronto. Another way to understand this is to consider that there are 100,000 more federal public employees today than there were eight years ago, representing an almost 40 percent increase in the governments labour force over Trudeaus mandate. Whether you look at this in nominal terms, as a percentage, or in terms of the number of civil servants per 1,000 inhabitants, no other prime minister in the last 40 years has inflated the public service as much. Given such a mighty increase in staff, one might reasonably assume that the federal government is doing a lot more to help its citizens. Or maybe it is now delivering existing federal services at lightning speed! You would be hard-pressed to find many Canadians willing to say this has been the case for them. Whether because of endless line-ups at the passport office or at customs or interminable waiting on hold with the Canada Revenue Agency, it must be admitted that Trudeaus massive hiring spree has not changed things much in the speed and form of federal service delivery. If, in fact, anything has changed at all, its the amount we spend collectively to cover the salaries and benefits of federal government employees. According to the Parliamentary Budget Officer, total federal employee compensation spending has risen by more than $21 billion since the Trudeau government took office, reaching $60.7 billion as per the most recent available data. To put this $21 billion in context, its roughly equivalent to the amount the federal government expects to pay out in employment insurance benefits this year. Thats a heck of a lot of money were sending to Ottawa to pay for extra civil servants instead of bolstering health and education systems in the provinces or giving taxpayers a bit of a break. And its worth mentioning that the effects of an ever-expanding federal public service are not only felt when it comes time to pay taxes. Given the current business climate, one in which our entrepreneurs are struggling to find qualified workers to fill their companies available positions, its important to recognize that excessive growth in the size of the federal government is detrimental. At bottom, the larger the pool of workers gobbled up by the federal government, the smaller the number available for private-sector employers. The outcome of this artificial labour shortage is that our businesses plans for growth are hindered, and their ability to take on new customers is impaired. This has a significant impact on their revenues and, ultimately, on government revenues as well. According to data from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, a shortage of skilled workers was responsible for more than $38 billion worth of business opportunities being turned down by Canadas small businesses last year. Given our tax rates, one can reasonably assume that this extra business would have provided Ottawa with a few billion dollars in additional personal income, sales and corporate income tax revenue. Its also a safe bet that having another 100,000 potential employees in the private labour pool would have helped meet the demand. And they would have had a far more positive impact there than anything we are seeing from federal services. The Trudeau government would do well to end the hiring spree and conduct a thorough review of its workforce to make sure Canadian taxpayers get the best value for money. Right now, it certainly seems like it isnt the case. Gabriel Giguere is a Public Policy Analyst with the Montreal Economic Institute. Seoul's Ties With Havana Seen as Setback for Pyongyang By Christy Lee February 20, 2024 Seoul's newly forged diplomatic ties with Havana are a diplomatic setback for North Korea, which views Cuba as a brother country, according to analysts. North Korea has had diplomatic relations with Cuba since 1960, and Cuba maintains an embassy in Pyongyang. South Korea did not have diplomatic ties with Cuba for 65 years, but the South Korean Foreign Ministry announced it agreed with Cuba to set up ambassador-level diplomatic relations between the two when their respective representatives to the United Nations met in New York on Feb. 14. North Korea has not made a public statement about South Korea's diplomatic ties with Cuba. "The establishment of full diplomatic relations between the ROK and Cuba is somewhat of a psychological and symbolic setback for the DPRK," said Evans Revere, a former State Department official with extensive experience negotiating with North Korea. South Korea's official name is the Republic of Korea (ROK). North Korea is officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). "Seoul's motivation was to regularize ties with a North Korean ally and achieve a diplomatic and political success in its ongoing competition with the DPRK," Revere said via email on Saturday. "Cuba's motivation was to try to improve its stagnant economy and improve the lives of its people," added Revere, a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution's Center for East Asia Policy Studies. Terence Roehrig, professor of national security affairs and a Korea expert at the U.S. Naval War College, said via email on Monday that establishing ties with Cuba is "a political win for Seoul in its competition with the North." He said that the two countries' economic relations will give Seoul expanded access to Cuba's mineral resources while Havana will obtain increased trade and investment from South Korea. Robert Rapson, who served as charge d'affaires and deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul from 2018 to 2021, said via email on Friday the Seoul-Havana ties probably do not cause Pyongyang "so much pain" diplomatically because it has strengthened ties with Russia and looks ahead to a possible meeting with Japan. Although Seoul and Havana have engaged in cultural exchanges, the newly established ties will aid economic cooperation that will support South Korean companies' entry into the Cuban market, said the South Korean Foreign Ministry in a Feb. 14 statement. South Korea imported more than $7 million worth of goods from Cuba while exporting $14 million in 2022, according to the Foreign Ministry. Among items that South Korea imported in 2022, copper accounted for $3.28 million, chemical products $2.13 million, and tobacco products $1.03 million, according to UN COMTRADE database, cited by Trading Economics, which compiles economic databases, indicators and indexes for 196 countries. The South Korean presidential office said Cuba could emerge as a new market if the bilateral economic ties develop and if the U.S. relaxes the trade embargo imposed on Cuba in 1962. The U.S. severed its diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1961 after Fidel Castro came to power in 1959. Washington officially restored diplomatic ties with Havana in 2015, but some U.S. policies were reversed in 2017. Revere said Washington has reacted in a "very low-key manner" because of the sensitivity of Cuba as a domestic political issue in the United States. However, he continued, the U.S. is probably "quite pleased with ROK-Cuba normalization, especially since Washington has also been trying to improve ties with the island. Going forward, the U.S. and the ROK will need to ensure that they coordinate their respective approaches on Cuba." South Korea has been working over the years to improve ties with the socialist country whose government bears more resemblance to North Korea's than its own. Havana's political power is wholly vested in its Cuban Communist Party, much like Pyongyang's ruling Workers' Party of Korea. Seoul's "bold and smart decision" in establishing ties with Havana could expose the Cuban government and people to South Korea's liberal democracy, said Joseph DeTrani, the special envoy for Six Party denuclearization talks with North Korea during the George W. Bush administration. "North Korea may feel threatened diplomatically by this move," DeTrani said via email on Friday. The South Korean Foreign Ministry said several cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts between the two countries have played a role in the normalization of the diplomatic relations. Among them are a Cuban film festival held in Seoul in 2022 and South Korean movies featured at an international film festival in Havana in December. The Foreign Ministry also said ArtCor, a fan club of approximately 10,000 members in Cuba devoted to Korean popular culture, contributed to the opening of the diplomatic ties. Approximately 14,000 South Koreans visited Cuba prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and about 1,100 ethnic South Koreans live in Cuba, according to the South Korean Foreign Ministry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address There's no alternative to JCPOA: Russia IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Feb 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia's ambassador and permanent representative to international organizations based in Vienna has reiterated that there is no alternative to the Iran nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, JCPOA. Ulyanov wrote on his X social network on Tuesday morning about the landmark deal between Iran and five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. A year ago, Western analysts and officials raised a lot of speculations about the second plan regarding Iran's nuclear program, he said, adding that "Russia was rights and it always stressed that there was no realistic plan and alternative to the JCPOA". Iran agreed to signing the JCPOA in 2014 with the aim of canceling cruel sanctions imposed by the United States and its western allies on different pretexts. Many reports then called Iran a responsible country implementing its obligations as was confirmed by the International Atomic Energy Agency in some 16 reports. But former US President Donald Trump put cold water on the JCPOA after entering the White House, by unilaterally pulling his country out of the deal and re-imposing sanctions on Iran. Speculation of the resumption of the JCPOA got momentum after Democratic President Joe Biden took office in 2021 who was critical to the unilateral action of his predecessor. But the Biden administration continued the so-called Trump-era maximum pressure policies against Iran. Remaining signatories to the JCPOA have held eight rounds of talks in Vienna with the indirect presence of an American delegation. However, the outcome of the negotiations was delayed due to several factors, including contradictions and delay in decision-making as well as new demands from the US. Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi has made it clear that the JCPOA is not the only agenda of his government but said the negotiations will continue depending on the West's toward Iran. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Navy chief: Iran to stage combined drills with a dozen of naval powers by yearend Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 11:06 AM A high-ranking Iranian military commander says the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy plans to hold joint naval exercises with foreign military forces in the northern tip of the Indian Ocean within the next few weeks. Navy chief Rear Admiral Shahram Irani told IRIB news agency in the capital Tehran on Tuesday that the Iranian naval forces along with naval units from a dozen countries will stage a military exercise by the end of the current Iranian calendar, which concludes on March 19. Commenting on Iran's missions in high seas, the commander noted that Iranian Navy units have been deployed in international waters since 2009 to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers. The Iranian Navy has been conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea ever since, safeguarding the country's interests in the strategic water bodies, Irani pointed out. He further noted that Iranian naval units have been protecting naval routes and providing security for merchant vessels and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran or other countries, stating that Iran's naval forces have on occasions responded to distress calls issued by foreign commercial ships. Iran's Navy has in recent years achieved self-sufficiency in manufacturing surface and sub-surface vessels. It has also increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers. The Iranian naval forces have also staged military drills with different countries, including Russia, China and Pakistan, over the past years with the aim of promoting their combat readiness. They have also been involved in joint efforts aimed at countering piracy and maritime terrorism, exchanging information in naval rescue and relief operations as well as sharing operational and tactical experience to enhance the security and stability of international maritime trade. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shelling kills 7 displaced people in Myanmar, including a minor They were traveling to their homes to collect essential items when the 'targeted attack' occurred, an ethnic army claimed. By RFA Burmese 2024.02.20 -- Junta shelling killed seven civilians in a heavily disputed territory of Myanmar, an ethnic army claimed in a Tuesday statement. Artillery hit the seven victims on Monday, the Pa-O National Liberation Organization claimed, adding that the attack was targeted. They were all internally displaced people from Hsihseng city in Shan state. Junta troops attacked the group's car with heavy weapons near southern Shan state's War Taw village as they were returning home briefly for supplies, the statement continued. Hsihseng, a township in southern Shan state, has been the site of ongoing conflict since late January when clashes broke out between the Pa-O army and the junta. But the area has remained contested in terms of control. In May 2023, a shootout occurred as an ASEAN humanitarian convoy traveled to Hsihseng to deliver aid and discuss assistance with the Pa-O National Liberation Organization for internally displaced people. It remains unclear who instigated the shooting. The victims of Monday's attack included one 17-year-old minor, locals said. The six others were aged 18 to 45. An official of the Pa-O National Liberation Organization who asked not to be named said the shells were fired by junta troops based in Hsaik Hkawng village in Hsihseng township. "At first, Light Infantry Battalion 423 in northern Hsihseng launched drone attacks there. Later, the junta troops based in Hsaik Hkawng village fired artillery shells," he said. A resident who did not want to be named for security reasons told Radio Free Asia that the identities of the victims could not be confirmed at this time. "They died on the spot. There are five men and two women," he said. "We don't know who they are." Despite the Pa-O National Liberation Army signing a nationwide ceasefire in 2015 and attending peace talks following the 2021 coup, the group committed in late January to fighting the regime. Fighting is still ongoing in Hsihseng township, locals said, adding that the road where the attack occurred has been closed off. RFA contacted Shan state's junta spokesperson Khun Thein Maung for more details, but he did not return calls by the time of publication. According to data compiled by RFA, junta airstrikes and artillery have killed 1,429 civilians and injured 2,641 more since the coup began on Feb. 1, 2021. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn. 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 Junta arrests 600 civilians after their arrival at 2 Rakhine airports Residents say they were detained on suspicion of attempting to join ethnic rebels. By RFA Burmese 2024.02.20 -- Junta troops arrested around 600 civilians after their flights from Yangon landed at two airports in western Myanmar's Rakhine state, according to family members and sources with knowledge of the situation, who said the military is holding them on suspicion of attempting to join the armed resistance. The arrests come amid the enactment of a conscription law that has sent draft-eligible civilians fleeing from Myanmar's cities, saying they would rather leave the country or join anti-junta forces in remote border areas than fight for the military, which seized power in a February 2021 coup d'etat. On Monday, junta soldiers detained nearly 500 passengers after they arrived at the airport in Rakhine's capital Sittwe from Yangon. They were transferred to a military camp at the Lawkananda pagoda, their relatives told RFA Burmese. The same day, more than 60 passengers from Yangon were similarly arrested after landing at the airport in Kyaukphyu city and taken to Rammawati City Hall, family members said. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly among the passengers were released the same day, they said, although the exact number was not immediately clear. The family member of a detainee at the Sittwe airport told RFA that there is no way to contact those being held. "We only knew that all the passengers from the Yangon-Sittwe flight were taken by car to Lawkanada pagoda for inspection as soon as they landed at the airport," said the family member who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. "It was discovered that many passengers - around 500 - are being held. We don't know what they are being inspected for." The military has also cut off phone and internet connections in the area, and troops stationed at the Lawkananda pagoda do not allow civilians to enter the compound, sources told RFA. The passengers who landed at Kyaukphyu airport were arrested and "immediately taken by car to Rammawati City Hall," where they are being held for "interrogation," said a resident of the city. "Some of them who have residential documents or were on household lists were released," the resident said. "The people from other areas have not been released," he added, noting that one resident of Ramree township "was handcuffed and taken to the military camp." Rakhine youth returning Armed clashes broke out in Rakhine state after the ethnic Arakan Army, or AA, ended a ceasefire in November that had been in place since the coup. Since then, the military has controlled routes in and out of the region by land and water, forcing people to rely on air travel. After the junta announced the enforcement of the People's Military Service Law on Feb. 10, Rakhine youth working and studying in Yangon were barred from registering for temporary residency in the city. Fearing arrest, a growing number of them have returned home, according to sources in Yangon. A resident of Yangon told RFA that troops at the two airports in Rakhine arrested the passengers on suspicion of planning to join anti-junta armed groups in the state. "The Rakhine people in Yangon were forced to return home [after they were barred from registering for residency]," he said. "They were told to go back home for military service, even though they were studying and working ... Although the passengers produced their IDs, they were arrested on suspicion of planning to join the Arakan Army." RFA has also received reports of junta troops arresting youths on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, Mandalay-Myitkyina Highway, and on their way to Kayin and Chin states. Sources were unable to provide the exact number of detainees and RFA was unable to independently verify their claims. Attempts by RFA to contact Rakhine State Attorney General Hla Thein, the junta's spokesperson in the region, for comment on the arrests and investigation went unanswered Tuesday. During three months of fighting in Rakhine, the AA has captured Pauktaw, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, Myay Pon and Taung Pyo townships in the state, as well as Paletwa township in neighboring Chin state. The conflict in Rakhine is escalating amid AA offensives on the junta-controlled townships of Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Rathedaung and Ramree. Maungdaw camp captured On Monday, the AA captured a military outpost in Maungdaw's Pe Yang Taung area after a nine-hour battle, according to a statement released by the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armies, which includes the AA. AA fighters recovered "more than 10 bodies of junta soldiers," as well as weapons and ammunition from the camp, the statement said. The Three Brotherhood Alliance said that over the course of the fighting, which took place from around 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the military launched three airstrikes from fighter jets. The seizure of the outpost in Pe Yang Taung comes days after the AA captured two junta-affiliated Border Guard Force outposts in Bodhigone and Narula, near Maungdaw, on Feb. 16. The military has not released any information about the fighting, and Hla Thein was unavailable for comment. Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Matt Reed. 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 Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Russia's hybrid operation against Estonia Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 20.02.2024 It is clear that Russia is systematically trying to undermine our society by organising hybrid operations against our state, our people and our security. It is also clear that we will not break and for us, there is nothing surprising about Russia's hybrid activities. Russia's coordinated activities in Estonia targeted the unity of our state and society, attempting to divide us and stir up tensions. Through this, Russia hopes to weaken our statehood and our unwavering support for Ukraine. It is clear that these kinds of plans against Estonia cannot succeed. Efforts by Russia and Russia's special services to influence life in Estonia through propaganda and violence are yet another failed attempt because there is no broad support for this narrative in Estonia. We can be sure that Russia's plans to influence societies with hybrid methods also concern our friends and partners. The West must remain united and clearly acknowledge the threats posed by Russia. We are in constant contact with our Allies to share the details of the hybrid operation conducted against Estonia. It is a clear example of Russia trying to weaken and undermine the unity of the West. Estonia takes the situation very seriously and we are doing our utmost to stop any action against our state. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also summoning Russia's ad hoc chargA d'affaires. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Tsahkna in Brussels: Navalny's murderer Putin must get a strong response from the EU Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 20.02.2024 On 19 February, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna attended the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, where the agenda included comprehensive support to Ukraine, the death of Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny, and the situation in the Middle East and the Sahel. Julia Navalnaya attended the meeting to talk about the circumstances of the sudden death of her husband Alexei Navalny last Friday. "Russian President Vladimir Putin is a murderer who took the life of the one person in Russia who dared to defy him," Tsahkna said. "Navalny was also fighting for freedom and for democracy, just as Ukraine is doing now." Discussing Russia's aggression in Ukraine, Tsahkna said that Russia has waged a full-scale war in Ukraine for two years now and unfortunately, nothing indicates that Putin's intentions have changed. "The clearest response to the killing of Navalny is immediate military aid to Ukraine," Tsahkna said. "The message to Russia must be clear. There will be no flexibility or return to normal relations before Ukraine has won and the damage caused to Ukraine has been compensated," Tsahkna emphasised. "We have done a lot for Ukraine in these past two years and offered comprehensive support, including historic military and political assistance, and imposed sanctions on 60% of trade with Russia," Tsahkna said. "However, this means that we still have 40% of EU trade to go to stop funding Russia's bloody war machine. We can and must do more." "Russia is obligated to compensate the damage it has caused in its war of aggression and profits from blocked assets must be directed quickly into covering Ukraine's needs," Tsahkna said, welcoming the EU's discussion on using blocked Russian assets for helping Ukraine. "I also briefed my European colleagues about our domestic plan and legislation that would allow us to rebuild Ukraine with frozen assets." Tsahkna also gave them an overview of Estonia's positions on the decision of the Russian Federation to add Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and Secretary of State Taimar Peterkop to the Russian Interior Ministry's list of wanted persons. Speaking about the situation in the Middle East, Tsahkna said that the EU's credibility depended on its response to global problems and on whether it can act as a substantial power in resolving them. "We are facing several crises that will define our future," Tsahkna said, adding that the decisions we make today will show whether we are bold enough to defend and maintain the rules-based order because our values should not be taken for granted. In a letter to the EU's High Representative Josep Borrell, the foreign ministers of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Denmark, Sweden and Finland also expressed concern over the state of human rights in Belarus and emphasised the need to increase support to the democratic movement of Belarus and ramp up pressure on Lukashenko's regime. Tomorrow, Tsahkna and his Nordic and Baltic colleagues will travel to New Delhi in India for the annual Raisina Dialogue. The foreign minister will also meet with India's foreign minister and minister of state and attend the reception celebrating the 106th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address MFA statement on summoning to MFA of Ambassador of Russian Federation Sergey Andreev Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland 20.02.2024 On 20 February 2024, Ambassador of the Russian Federation Sergey Andreev was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The MFA called on the Russian authorities to take responsibility for the death of Alexei Navalny and conduct a full and transparent investigation to establish the circumstances and the cause of his death. On 16 February 2024, the Russian prison service announced that Navalny died in a strict-regime penal colony. As one of the leaders of the Russian opposition and civil society, Navalny was sentenced in a show trial to 19 years of imprisonment for alleged extremism. It was reported that while serving the penalty, he was subjected to unjustified disciplinary measures, including long-term solitary confinement. Together with the democratic international community, Poland notes with concern the rising number of political prisoners in Russia, many of whom are kept in penal colonies in appalling conditions that constitute a hazard to their life and health. Among these are the leading representatives of the Russian opposition, including Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin. The inhuman treatment of Navalny and his subsequent death are characteristic of the Russian authorities' treatment of political prisoners, opposition activists, and human rights defenders. It runs counter to democratic standards and violates their civil rights. The authorities of the Russian Federation demonstrate a total disregard for moral norms not only in the context of their treatment of the country's civil society, but also in the ongoing war against Ukraine. Poland calls on Russia to hold responsible the individuals who are to blame for the unlawful aggression against Ukraine, compensate its victims, and account for the crimes against the Ukrainian state and its civilian population. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China slams NATO over 'hyping' death of Russian opposition figure Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 11:31 AM China has criticized US-led NATO countries for hyping up the death of the Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, asking them to "stop their tricks", and interference in the internal matters of other countries. The Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning said on Monday, NATO must cease its tactics of exaggerating tensions and meddling in the internal affairs of other nations in order to expand its sphere of influence, along with refraining from tarnishing China's reputation and fueling animosity and conflict. "NATO should stop its tricks of hyping up tensions and interfering in other countries' internal affairs to expand its sphere of influence and stop smearing China and stoking antagonism and confrontation," Mao was quoted as saying. "NATO should earnestly take concrete action for the peace and stability in Europe," she added. Unlike NATO, "China never interferes in other countries' internal affairs," while adding that China favors peace talks in Ukraine. According to Russian media, the Kremlin critic died while serving a 19-year sentence in a Russian prison for "fraud" and "extremism." He lost consciousness after feeling unwell following a walk, the cause of which is still under investigation. Immediately after his death, US-led NATO countries started targeting president Vladimir Putin, blaming him for the death of his political foe. "If confirmed (Navalny's death), would be a further sign of Putin's brutality. Whatever story they tell, let us be clear: Russia is responsible," US vice president Kamala Harris said on Friday. The Russia slammed the allegations, saying the prompt response from NATO leaders following Navalny's passing, prior to the investigations, in the shape of direct blame on Russia, is itself suspicious. "The immediate reaction of NATO leaders to Navalny's death in the form of direct accusations against Russia is self-exposing," spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying. "There is no forensic examination yet, but the West's already made conclusions," she said, adding that "carbon-copy accusations" that came within minutes after Navalny's death show that they must have been "prepared in advance." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nearly all ex-allies paying back Taiwan loans: MOFA ROC Central News Agency 02/20/2024 02:51 PM Taipei, Feb. 20 (CNA) All of the Republic of China's (ROC) former diplomatic allies, apart from two African states, are repaying loans owed to Taiwanese banks in accordance with their contracts, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Tuesday. MOFA spokesman Jeff Liu () said all funds loaned to former allies were done as part of commercial agreements with Taiwanese banks and that MOFA had only been the facilitator. Like all commercial loans, the contracts stated the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including dispute settlement mechanisms, according to Liu. The ending of diplomatic ties does not affect the validity of these contracts, so the former allies still have to repay the loans, he said, citing information given by Taiwanese banks. Almost all of these former allied countries have been doing so accordingly, including Honduras, with only two exceptions -- the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Liu said. If a breach of contract occurs, banks can use international judicial channels to take legal action, a standard practice when disputes arise regarding commercial loans, Liu said. Liu added that this was why a Taiwanese bank had filed and won a lawsuit against the two countries. Liu was referring to an April 2017 ruling that saw the state-run Taiwanese bank, the Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China, successfully sue the two African countries for US$212 million in unpaid loans allocated while the ROC, Taiwan's formal designation, still had diplomatic relations with them. However, the two subsequently failed to begin repayments and the Taiwanese bank is currently investigating other methods to recover assets, according to MOFA. The ROC ended diplomatic ties with the DRC in 1973 and the CAR in 1998. Liu made the remarks during a MOFA briefing when he was asked to comment on a Honduran media report released last week that said the Central American country still owed Taiwanese banks US$449 million despite the ending of 80-plus years of diplomatic ties. The funds from Taiwan were allocated for housing reconstruction, school infrastructure, school meals, and other projects, according to the Spanish language newspaper La Prensa. (By Joseph Yeh) Enditem/kb NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China contributes to Antarctic studies, protection over past 40 years 14:36, February 20, 2024 By Liu Shiyao, Hu Runxin ( People's Daily China's Qinling Station started operation on Inexpressible Island in the Terra Nova Bay of Antarctica on Feb. 7. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter on the completion of the building of the Qinling Station and its operation in Antarctica. He said the completion of the building 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. Photo shows China's Qinling Station in Antarctica. (Photo/Zhu He) Antarctica has immense value for scientific research. It is hailed as the golden key to unlock the Earth's mysteries and a natural science laboratory. Because of its distinctive geographical conditions and natural environment, changes in Antarctica will have incalculable impacts on the global climate and environment. The Qinling Station is China's fifth research station in Antarctica, after the Great Wall, Zhongshan, Kunlun, and Taishan Stations. It is also China's third Antarctic research base to be operational throughout the year. This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's polar expedition. Over the past 40 years, China has launched five stations and two research vessels for Antarctic research, entering an era of three-dimensional development across sea, land and air. The Great Wall Station is located on King George Island, the Zhongshan Station in the Larsemann Hills, the Kunlun Station and Taishan Station in Antarctica's inland region, and the Qinling Station in the Ross Sea area. Their geographic differences exactly bring greater value to scientific research. The region where the Great Wall Station is located is suitable for subantarctic ecological monitoring and research. The Zhongshan Station is an ideal place to observe and study the evolution of the Antarctic ice sheet and the interactions between the ice shelf and the ocean. It is also an excellent location for research in aerophysics, geology, geophysics and other disciplines. The Kunlun and Taishan stations in Antarctica's inland enable frontier research in ice core science, atmospheric science and astronomical science. The Ross Sea region features interactions between the lithosphere, cryosphere, biosphere and atmosphere - different layers of the Earth system. This helps researchers investigate important scientific questions like how changes in Antarctica affect the whole world. Over the past 40 years, China has become a driving force in Antarctic scientific exploration, achieving many breakthroughs in fields like glaciology, space science, bio-ecology, and climate change. Countless "firsts" have marked the fruitful achievements of China's Antarctic expeditions. The first Chinese Antarctic expedition team conducted the first multidisciplinary field scientific survey near the Great Wall Station. China's 40th Antarctic scientific expedition team sets sail from Shanghai, Nov. 1, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Shen Chunchen) During the 19th Chinese Antarctic expedition, China tracked and monitored changes in the thickness of Antarctic sea ice for the first time in the world. The 21st expedition team entered the area of the Dome Argus (Dome A), the peak of Antarctica's inland icecap, and carried out substantive scientific investigations, for the first time in the history of Antarctic research. In recent years, China has conducted continuous observations of the atmosphere, ocean, sea ice, glaciers, soil, bio-ecology and other elements of Antarctica. This has made important contributions to the international community's understanding of the polar regions, especially the interaction between global climate change and Antarctica. Over the past 40 years, China has always been an active contributor to environmental protection in Antarctica. In early September 1990, the Great Wall Station temporarily halted the use of all vehicles and required staff to walk on foot, in order to ensure a good environment for seals around the station during their pregnancy and following childbirth. At the 31st Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in 2008, the Antarctic Specially Protected Area around Mount Harding in the middle of the Grove Mountains proposed by China was approved. As the first Antarctic Specially Protected Area independently proposed by China, it has made positive contributions to environmental protection in the region. China's first independently built polar icebreaker, the Xuelong 2, is a well-deserved "green" vessel. From the control of exhaust emissions, sewage and waste discharge, to real-time regulation of air conditioning and heating, and even the use of paints, all are in strict compliance with environmental requirements. Environmental protection was also integrated throughout the construction process of the Qinling Station. Through integrated design, domestic modular customization and pre-assembly were implemented to save energy, water and materials. In addition, the station reduced the number of temporary facilities and construction personnel on site to minimize the scope of construction activities, aligning with the goal of building an environmentally sustainable research station. Over the past 40 years, China has become an important participant in the international governance of Antarctica. In 1983, China acceded to the Antarctic Treaty. In October 1985, China became a consultative party to the Antarctic Treaty, obtaining decision-making status in international polar affairs. In 2017, China successfully hosted the 40th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and the 20th Meeting of the Committee for Environmental Protection, where it led the proposal of an international initiative on green expeditions, which was widely recognized by the international community. In 2023, China and several other countries jointly submitted a proposal to promote international cooperation on aerial surveys of the Antarctic ice cap and improve the accuracy of global sea level rise projections. Since 2012, China has submitted over 80 proposals individually or jointly to relevant polar international organizations, comprehensively participating in the formulation of rules and regulations related to polar environmental protection and resource conservation. (Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming) A Big W customer got the shock of her life while trying to purchase an outdoor play set for her kids this week when she noticed a charge of over $4,000 for the item to be delivered. The shopper, who lives in Singleton, NSW had added the $1,200 item to her cart while ordering online, but was forced to think twice after noticing the humungous shipping fee and she wasn't the only one who copped a charge worth thousands. According to Big W's website, the play set is sent via Plum Play, a "trusted partner", and not by Big W stores. Singleton in the Hunter Valley where the woman lives is considered a rural area, which was first thought to be the reason for the extortionate shipping costs. Delivery of the outdoor play set from Big W appeared as $4,466 online. Source: Facebook Aussies confused over extortionate Big W delivery costs The Aussie mum shared her outrage on Facebook, even swearing off the department store for the apparent money grab. "How in God's name can they charge $4,466 for delivery! Big W are slowly losing my vote!" she said. Her revelation was met with anger from other shoppers who criticised the high fee. "That is fricken ridiculous!!!! No one would pay that," one said. "Jesus, are you ordering a few pallets of bricks? No way normal merchandise would cost that much to send," said another. Others questioned the weight of the items and her location. Loads of Big W shoppers reported sky-high delivery costs on the same item. Source: Facebook But scores of others admitted they too were getting "ridiculous" shipping costs on the same item after trying it for themselves. "It jumped a few grand for a couple of ks for me," one said referencing their distance to the closest store. Standard delivery for the same item was showing as $7,858. Some reported fees of up to $50,000, but most were $7,000 to $10,000. Big W confirms glitch was to blame for unexpected delivery costs However, Big W confirmed to Yahoo News Australia an "error on the website" was to blame for the inaccurate delivery charges, which has now been corrected, as suggested by someone on Facebook. It's understood the correct delivery fee to the woman's home should have been about $100, which is determined by the supplier based on location, and also on the weight of the item. Story continues Big W admitted a website glitch was to blame. Source: Getty In a statement to Yahoo on Wednesday, a spokesperson said: "We were made aware of a delivery calculation error on our website which has since been resolved. We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused." It's not the first time a website error has left shoppers gobsmacked. In 2020, a pricing blunder had some Aussies seeing red. The shipping fees were once again brought into question a few months later. But in both scenarios, a website glitch was to blame. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Premier urges reciprocal cooperation amid cross-strait maritime dispute ROC Central News Agency 02/20/2024 04:51 PM Taipei, Feb. 20 (CNA) Premier Chen Chien-jen () on Tuesday called for both sides of the Taiwan Strait to approach the security of Kinmen and Xiamen waters with rationality and equality, following a boat chase that resulted in the death of two Chinese fishermen last week. Chen said that Taiwan has been implementing law and order in compliance with the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area in the waters surrounding the outlying Kinmen County, located less than 10 kilometers from China-held Xiamen, Chen said. Chen was responding to local media inquiries ahead of the Legislative session, amid rising cross-strait tensions following the capsizing of a Chinese speedboat off the eastern coast of Kinmen on Feb. 14 during a pursuit by Taiwanese authorities. According to Chen, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense established the boundaries of "prohibited waters and restricted waters" around Kinmen in 1992 to better protect fishermen, with relevant law enforcement well understood by both sides across the strait. Taiwan's government will continue to uphold maritime safety and fishermen's rights, Chen said, urging both parties to prohibit the entry of illegal fishing vessels and ships into these waters through the respective coast guards. At present, the prohibited zone around the main islands of Kinmen and Little Kinmen extends about halfway to the Chinese coast to the north and northeast, up to about 4 kilometers to the east, and about 8 kilometers to the south. Taipei and Beijing have traded barbs over the legitimacy of the zone after the Feb. 14 incident, with the latter announcing to enhance its maritime law enforcement capabilities and increase regular patrols in the region. On Feb. 19, the China Coast Guard boarded a Kinmen sightseeing boat in the region by conducting a surprise inspection, raising further concerns. In response, Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council head Kuan Bi-ling () said China's practice was regrettable while urging Taiwanese ship operators to "not to stay where China is attempting inspections, but instead notify the council immediately for assistance." As for the premier, his last policy address representing President Tsai Ing-wen's () administration at the Legislature went off to a rough start, facing a 40-minute boycott from opposition Kuomintang (KMT) lawmakers over a recent food safety controversy. Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu () of the KMT determined that representatives from all parties would gather for a bipartisan consultation to discuss the timing and format of a special report on food safety issues to be presented by the premier, before Chen was allowed to brief. In his 40-page report, Chen said Taiwan, which is now the world's 21st largest economy, has made a significant improvement in economic performance under Tsai's rule, posting a 3.2 percent average economic growth rate since 2016. The country is also on track to build up its self-national defense, and its first indigenous defense submarine, the Narwhal, which will be officially launched in 2025, he said. (By Lin Ching-yin, Wang Yang-yu and Lee Hsin-Yin) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Political party calls on Taiwan authorities to avoid inciting confrontation after incident of mainland fishermen's death Global Times By Liu Xin and Xing Xiaojing Published: Feb 20, 2024 06:07 PM The Labor Party of Taiwan on Tuesday called on Taiwan society, especially the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to pay attention to dealing with the aftermath of the death of two fishermen from the mainland, to create environment for rational communication and to avoid further inciting cross-Straits confrontations. Two mainland fishermen were killed after a fishing boat from the southeastern Fujian Province was chased on February 14 by Taiwan island authorities in the waters near Kinmen, a group of island about 10 kilometers away from Fujian's Xiamen city. Four people on board fell into the water and two of them died. The incident has cast a shadow over cross-Straits relations. It is well known that since the lifting of the "martial law" in Taiwan island, the Kinmen area has transitioned from a "frontline battlefield" to becoming the region with the closest exchanges with the mainland. With many Kinmen residents working and living in Xiamen, the close integration of the people in both areas is an undeniable fact, Wu Jung-yuan, chairman of the Labor Party, told the Global Times on Tuesday. Recently, some people on the Taiwan island have advocated for turning Kinmen into a peaceful island to demonstrate the dividends of peaceful development of Kinmen to Taiwan society. Their purpose is to seize the historical opportunity for peaceful development cross-Straits, to prevent Kinmen from returning to the battlefield as it was during the civil war and cold war era, and further create an atmosphere of reconciliation and easing tensions between the two sides, Wu noted. The incident of the death of mainland fishermen in the waters near Kinmen has added complexity to the cross-Straits relations, Wu said. He noted that the mainland's coast guard ships patrolling in the waters between Kinmen and Xiamen is its first move in response to the incident. Wu called on the Taiwan society, especially the DPP authorities, to pay attention to the impact of this incident and strive to create opportunity to dissolve the confrontation. "Let the historical wheel of peace move forward and not return to the path of the cold war or civil war," said Wu. This is a horrible incident in which two fishermen died as a result of Taiwan's rough treatment of the mainland fishing boats. The DPP authorities should have promptly and properly handled the issue, but based on their current performance, it seems that the DPP authorities are neither willing nor able to address cross-Straits relations, Wang Wu-lang, secretary-general of the Cross-Straits Peace Forum, told the Global Times. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese coast guard causes 'panic' with Taiwan cruise ship boarding The inspection of a sightseeing vessel near Kinmen island comes amid increased Chinese patrols in the area. By RFA Staff 2024.02.20 -- Chinese coast guard officers boarded a Taiwanese sightseeing vessel near Kinmen island, then inspected its navigation plan and ship documents as the cruise ship's frightened passengers and crew members looked on, Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration said. The "King Xia" was 2.8 nautical miles (5.2 kilometers) northwest of Kinmen's Wushajiao Quay when it was intercepted by the Chinese coast guard on Monday, Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration said in a statement. The Taiwanese cruise ship had veered slightly off course to avoid low-lying sandbars, according to the statement, which also noted that Chinese tourist boats often stray into Taiwan-controlled waters and only ever receive verbal warnings from Taiwanese authorities. "The Taiwanese coast guard calls on China to uphold peace and rationality and jointly maintain tranquility in the waters around Xiamen and Kinmen," the statement said. Kinmen is less than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from China's Fujian province but more than 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Taiwan's mainland. The island and Fujian's city of Xiamen are separated by Xiamen Bay. Six Chinese coast guard members boarded the "King Xia," which was carrying 23 passengers and 11 crew members, according to Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration. "We think it has harmed our people's feelings and triggered people's panic," the head of Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council, Kuan Bi-ling, told reporters on Tuesday. The council is the official governing body that oversees the democratic island's Coast Guard Administration and the implementation of marine-related policies. The boarding of the sightseeing ship was another attempt by China to "deliberately escalate the situation," said Su Tzu-yun, a senior analyst at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei. 'Lives and property' Monday's incident comes a week after a Chinese fishing boat capsized in Kinmen's waters on Feb. 14, causing two crew deaths. Beijing condemned the incident and pledged over the weekend to conduct regular patrols "to protect fishermen's lives and property." Also on Monday, China dispatched four vessels to an area around Kinmen, which is governed by Taiwan. The Chinese vessels did not enter Kinmen's prohibited waters. The boundaries between the outer islands under Taiwan's control and China's mainland, called "prohibited waters" and "restricted waters," were set by Taiwan in 1992 and so far have been tacitly respected by both sides, despite China never officially recognizing them. "Prohibited waters" refer to the territorial waters around Kinmen that extend about halfway to the Chinese coast, or roughly 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) to the north and northwest. "Restricted waters" extend a little further, about 8 kilometers (5 miles), to the south. Chinese coast guard vessels don't normally enter the islands' prohibited waters, nor do Taiwanese law enforcement ships venture out of them. Recently, Kinmen has seen frequent flyovers by Chinese drones. On Tuesday, a China coast guard vessel came as close as 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) to the island's northwest coast, ship tracking data showed. The location of the "Zhongguohaijian 8029" was well inside the so-called "prohibited waters," according to data provided by the tracking website Marine Traffic and analyzed by Radio Free Asia. Taiwan's coast guard used radio and broadcast and dispatched a boat to drive the Chinese vessel away, according to a Taiwanese statement. Edited by Mike Firn, Taejun Kang and Matt Reed. This story has been updated to begin with Monday's boarding of the cruise ship. 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 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Feb. 20, 2024 ROC Ministry of National Defense 2024/02/20 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1.Dateis 6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Monday to Tuesday , Feb. 19-20 2. PLA activitiesis 24 PLA aircraft and 8 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 11 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pevkur in Munich: Ukraine needs decisive support, not political will Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 19. February 2024 Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur, who attended the Munich Security Conference on Friday and Saturday, stressed in his speeches and meetings the need for further swift decisions to aid Ukraine, as political will alone is not enough to help Ukraine. The Minister also spoke of the need to urgently improve Europe's defence capabilities. "Delaying additional military aid to Ukraine is becoming more critical by the day," said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur. "Over the course of the Munich weekend, the war crept tens of kilometres closer to NATO as Avdiivka fell. Any delay means additional loss of life on the battlefield." "We also need to increase Europe's defence capabilities decisively and rapidly. The European Union has taken a number of good short-term steps to reduce the defence deficit, but we face strategic challenges that require not just words, but deeds," added Pevkur. After participating in a panel discussion on possible solutions to the defence industry's production gaps, the Minister of Defence summed up, "The message from the defence industry representatives is very simple and clear: if the contracts are there, they can be fulfilled. The most critical capacity gaps are in air defence, long-range fire and ammunition stocks." "It is important to emphasise that for Europe, increasing defence spending is also an opportunity, not an additional burden. A strong defence industry is a driving force for the economy, it creates jobs, technologies and dual-use solutions, and can bring benefits we might not even be able to imagine today," he added. The Minister of Defence participated in the NATO Eastern Flank deterrence, defence and cyber operations roundtable discussions, as well as a joint meeting of NATO Defence Ministers and members of the US Congress. Pevkur also met with Romanian Defence Minister Angel TAlvAr, US Deputy National Security Adviser Anne Neuberger, Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister in the Ministry of Defence Shingo Miyake, Swedish Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and many representatives of the defence industry. Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur also met with former UK Secretary of State for Defence Rt.Hon. Ben Wallace to present him the Estonian Order of Merit on behalf of the President of the Republic of Estonia for his contribution towards promoting security cooperation and strengthening NATO's Eastern Flank defence capabilities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Second year of war in Ukraine: Ignazio Cassis at UN headquarters in New York Swiss Government Bern, 20.02.2024 -- Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the head of the FDFA, will address the United Nations in New York on 22 and 23 February 2024 to mark the two-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine. He will take part in the UN Security Council and General Assembly debates on the situation in Ukraine, as well as a side event focusing on humanitarian mine action. He will also participate in various bilateral meetings. On Thursday, Mr Cassis will commence his trip to UN headquarters in New York with a speech on humanitarian mine action in Ukraine. The contamination of a third of Ukraine - an area four times the size of Switzerland - by mines and other unexploded ordnance is having devastating consequences, both for the local population and for global food security. The elimination of these mines and other unexploded ordnance is a prerequisite for the recovery process in Ukraine and the return of displaced persons. Switzerland is strongly committed to this issue and will be organising a Ukraine Mine Action Conference at ministerial level in October 2024. Mr Cassis will address the General Assembly and then the UN Security Council on Friday 23 February. The two-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine will be the focus of these two annual international meetings in New York. Mr Cassis will reiterate Switzerland's call for respect for the UN Charter and international humanitarian law, as well as our commitment to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. At these two multilateral forums, he will also reiterate Switzerland's intention to organise a high-level conference for peace in Ukraine. Various bilateral meetings are also on the Swiss Foreign Minister's New York agenda. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address February 20, 2024 Release Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Ukrainian Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh provided the following readout: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Ukrainian Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov today to discuss the developments from the battlefield. They reviewed the outcomes of the recent Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting held on February 13 and Secretary Austin reiterated the steadfast commitment of our coalition of some 50 Allies and partners to continue supporting Ukraine as Russia's full-scale war of aggression approaches the two-year mark. The two leaders pledged to remain in close contact. https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3681812/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Government presents largest military support package to Ukraine to date Government Offices of Sweden 20 February 2024 Today, 20 February, the Government presented the 15th and largest military support package to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began on 24 February 2022. Package 15 amounts to SEK 7.1 billion in current prices. It comprises a maritime initiative that includes Combat Boat 90s, small and fast motorboats (G-boats) and underwater weapons. The package also includes artillery ammunition, an anti-aircraft system, light anti-tank weapons, recoilless rifles, hand grenades, medical equipment, medical transport vehicles, food, and financial support to bilateral and multilateral projects or funds. It also involves financial support to enable Ukraine to purchase more Combat Vehicle 90s. Russia's brutal, unjust and merciless war in Ukraine continues and Ukraine's need for support remains immense. This support package responds to the prioritised needs conveyed by Ukraine. It is mostly managed through an additional amending budget that also includes the funds for support package 14, including an additional SEK 700 million in costs for package 14. The amending budget amounts to a total of SEK 8.2 billion. The Government will follow up on funding of package 15 in the Spring Amending Budget. With these measures, which are worth SEK 7.1 billion (package 15) and the addition of SEK 700 million (package 14) Sweden's total military support to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 amounts to SEK 30 billion. The support package includes the following. Artillery ammunition (155 mm). Following supplementation with components from partner countries, it will form functional grenades worth almost SEK 2 billion. Sweden is engaged in a dialogue about this matter with Denmark and Finland. Vessels in the form of 10 Combat Boat 90s, 20 Group Boats (G-boats) and underwater weapons are being donated, in total worth about SEK 1.1. billion. An anti-aircraft system (Robot 70), light anti-tank weapons (Robot 55 TOW) and recoilless rifles with ammunition and personal equipment in the form of hand grenades. Medical equipment, medical transport vehicles and food. A donation to enable Ukraine to purchase new Combat Vehicle 90s (CV90). Financial donations to various bilateral and multilateral projects to develop Ukraine's defence capabilities and multilateral funds that purchase military equipment for Ukraine in the free market. The equipment in the support package is being used by the Swedish Armed Forces, but they have made the assessment that it may be donated if replacement purchases are made soon. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks delivered by the Head of CTA Bureau at the United Nations Press briefing in Geneva. ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross Remarks by Dusan VUJASANIN, head of the ICRC Central Tracing Agency Bureau for the international armed conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine at the Palais media briefing in Geneva. News release 20 February 2024 Ukraine Russia Good morning. And thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about a major humanitarian issue arising from the international armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which is the issue of missing persons. Not knowing what happened to your loved ones is excruciating. Not knowing if your husband, your father, your daughter is alive, if they are in good health, hungry, cold, injured are some of the questions that tens of thousands of Russian and Ukrainian families ask themselves day and night. Today, we, the ICRC, are looking for 23'000 persons whose families have had no news of them for months or sometimes for almost two years. The majority of these people are military personnel. So, how do we look for these persons? We receive information from the families concerned. We also gather information from open sources, such as Telegram channels. But what makes the bureau I'm leading unique is that we work directly with both parties to the conflict. We act as a neutral intermediary between Russia and Ukraine, who have a legal obligation under the Geneva Conventions to share information with us about "protected persons", meaning civilians and military, dead or alive, who have fallen into their hands. They do so through their National Information Bureaus. The system is not perfect, but it works. As a result, we have received and continue to receive information on thousands of people, in the form of lists of names. It's a complex process, it can be lengthy because the amount of information we collect, analyze and safeguard is huge. And because we always cross-check information, to ensure we provide families with accurate information. Collecting, analyzing and comparing all this information is what enables us to identify what we call "positive matches". A positive match is when we receive reliable information about a person whose family has contacted us to look for him or her. This is the case, for example, when Russia or Ukraine provides us with information on prisoners of war in their hands. This way, we have been able to give news to 8000 families so far. We are aware that many more families are anxiously awaiting news. We are working every day to help more families and we'll continue to do so for how long as necessary. But at least for these 8000 families, it's the end of a sometimes very long period of uncertainty. And for some, it's even more than that. I remember the story of this woman we called to tell her that we had just visited her son in detention. She was very moved because she thought her son was dead. A few words about the ICRC Central tracing agency bureau for the international armed conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. It was set up almost two years ago, in March 2022, to prevent people from going missing, from being unaccounted for. The bureau is based in Geneva (in Ecogia/Versoix since the beginning of this year) and comprises of a team of around 60 experts from 26 nationalities in fields like data management and analysis, forensic science, international humanitarian law, and so on. As I said, we are here to support Russian and Ukrainian families, to provide them with the answers they're eagerly awaiting. To do so, we work in close coordination with ICRC teams in Ukraine and in Russia of course, but also with Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies in some 50 countries around the world, to ensure proximity with the families affected whether they live. You are more than welcome to visit us at Ecogia. Thank you for your attention, and I am happy to take any questions you might have. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Medvedev says drones change fate of war as Russia flies flag in Ukraine's Avdiivka Iran Press TV Tuesday, 20 February 2024 7:54 AM Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev says drones are taking over the modern military landscape amid Moscow's "special military operation" in Ukraine, urging an increase in the production of drones. In a meeting with the commanders of Chechen units on Monday, Medvedev, Security Council Deputy Chairman, said that drones are changing people's mindset and the way they think about war. "When the special military operation began, few people were talking about drones. There was an understanding that this war would also be fought using the classic rules of warfare from the past. However, it turned out that the world had changed and technology had changed, too," he said. According to Medvedev, to the surprise of almost all military strategists across the world, drones are taking over the modern military landscape and reshaping the battlefield. "Until recently, it seemed that it's something from a distant future, just like walking robots, apparently, it's not: all these things are now used in combat," he added. He said Russia is facing "challenging tasks" which are deciding "the fate of our country." Medvedev stressed the need for ramping up Russia's drone production to complement its arsenal of tanks and missiles. In January, Russian President Vladimir Putin had said that domestically made drones were effectively performing combat missions in the special military operation zone, which used to involve attack and tactical aircraft. Medvedev's remarks come as Russia announces it has taken "full control" of the key Ukrainian town of Avdiivka, making it Moscow's most significant territorial gain since they seized the eastern city of Bakhmut last May. The Russian military said Monday its forces had completed their takeover of the city after Ukrainian forces fled the city,,eliminating the last pocket of resistance at the eastern Ukraine city's huge coke plant. Kiev's forces was driven out over the weekend as a result of the sheer weight of Russia's troop numbers and greater firepower. The victory comes days ahead of the two-year anniversary of Russia's military campaign against its neighbor on February 24, 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is on a tour of Europe to secure desperately needed military aid as Kive has been heavily relied on the supply of Western weapons and ammunition. Andrii Teren, a commander in the 110th Brigade, said on Monday that a lack of shells and manpower caused Avdiivka's fall. "We didn't have enough people. We didn't have enough shells. We didn't have enough possibilities to throw them back. If we had had a large amount, or at least an ok amount of shells, we could have stopped the enemy. But unfortunately, we didn't have them." Western countries have responded to the Russian military operation by backing Ukraine with cash and heavy weaponry. Russia has repeatedly warned that flooding Ukraine with weapons and munitions will only prolong the war, not stopping the Russian troops from reaching their military objective in the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Another UNESCO World Heritage area is facing destruction, environmentalists warn. Following in the footsteps of Australian campaigners who tried to list the Great Barrier Reef, a petition has now been lodged to add the Galapagos Islands to a grim list of 56 other "in danger" sites. While efforts to list Queenslands world-famous reef were unsuccessful due largely to lobbying by the federal government to stifle the move US-based Center for Biodiversity is confident the World Heritage Committee could vote to approve the Galapagos archipelago when it meets in 2025. A spokesperson for the Center told Yahoo News its petition had been welcomed by members of the committee. According to the Center, the Ecuadorian government is not doing enough to combat unregulated fishing by Chinese-flagged vessels across the archipelago. Hundreds of boats have been recorded anchoring just outside the Galapagos Marine Reserve catching tonnes of fish and threatening the regions biodiversity. An influx of tourists is impacting the Galapagos Islands, according to the Center for Biodiversity. Source: Getty (File Image) In addition, dozens of vessels have been observed disappearing from radar tracking systems for up to 17 days in the area, which if done intentionally would be illegal. Other sites the Biodiversity centre wants listed as 'in danger' El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve in Mexico (US border wall) Islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California in Mexico (Illegal fishing) The Pantanal in Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia (Fires and livestock expansion) Sites already listed as 'in danger' Historic Centre of Vienna (Development of high-rise projects) Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve (Proposed iron-ore mining, arrival of refugees) Rainforests of the Atsinanana (Illegal logging, poaching of lemurs) Tourism threatening Galapagos biodiversity While unregulated and illegal fishing are harming the Galapagos, theres another major issue affecting the regions wildlife, the Centers senior scientist Alex Olivera told Yahoo News. Story continues There are huge problems with pollution and invasive species and these are related to the increase of tourists arriving at the islands. The number of tourists arriving, it's already passing the pre-pandemic levels, he said. In 2023, avian flu was detected on the Galapagos in an area that is frequented by tourists. While authorities acted quickly to limit visitors to the area, Olivera says the virus which has killed tens of millions of birds around the globe could have threatened the regions biodiversity. Olivera said governments routinely oppose in danger petitions because it could lead to the loss of its World Heritage listing and lead to embarrassment. But he argues they should embrace attempts to list sites, as doing so will likely lead to an increase in international efforts to save them. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Interview: Latvia's President Says Ukraine Is Not Only Fighting For Us But 'Fighting Instead Of Us' By Vazha Tavberidze February 20, 2024 MUNICH -- Edgars Rinkevics was elected president of Latvia in July 2023, following an 11-year tenure that made him the longest-serving foreign minister in the history of his Baltic nation of 1.8 million people. He has been an ardent critic of Russia's aggression against neighboring Ukraine since 2014, when he likened the occupation and annexation of Crimea to the Soviet occupation of the Baltic states in 1940. "History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce," he said at the time. Eight years later, he became a leading voice for tough punitive sanctions after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Rinkevics talked to RFE/RL's Georgian Service on the sidelines of last week's Munich Security Conference, where in addition to discussing issues such as the crises in Ukraine and Gaza and new threats to NATO cohesion, attendees also learned about the death of Putin critic Aleksei Navalny in an Arctic prison. In the interview, Rinkevics spoke about Navalny and how the path to a more democratic Russia could lead through Ukraine. RFE/RL: I suppose we have to start with the event that overshadowed pretty much everything at the Munich Security Conference: Aleksei Navalny's death. How big a blow is it to the hopes of a better Russia, a Russia that wants to try its hand at democracy again? Edgars Rinkevics: I think that the very fact that all the opponents of Mr. Putin are either in jail or dead, and that Mr. Navalny was not the first opponent who died -- or that they are somewhere in exile -- actually [shows] that, at this point, it is very difficult to imagine any kind of opposing forces that could make a difference in Russia. It may happen [sometime] in the future -- things are not somehow frozen in time, they are not constant, they keep moving. But I think that this has been probably a very symbolic end of an era. Because we do remember how Mr. Navalny was fighting corruption, how he was exposing officials. Well, you could agree or disagree with him as a politician, but definitely he was a very viable alternative to the current regime. And that's why I believe he was imprisoned and he died. And as we remember, there was already one very serious attempt on his life just three years ago. On the other hand, I do believe that we must also understand that our condemnation -- the Western world saying how bad it is -- does not mean anything [to] the Kremlin at this point. I think Mr. Putin has his own goals. He wants, first of all, to eliminate any dissent back home. And, of course, he wants to advance his foreign policy [and] imperialistic goals. RFE/RL: What do you expect the Western reaction to be, beyond the usual consternation and condemnation? Rinkevics: I do believe that the only viable way to respond to this tragic news is to provide more assistance, more weapons to Ukraine. To some extent, the possibility of a better Russia, a more democratic Russia, currently lies not in Russia itself but in Ukraine. I believe we still have this very wrong narrative that "we are going to support Ukraine as long as it takes." We should change it to "we are going to support Ukraine to victory, even with all the issues [and] problems that we now face: funding, a bit of fatigue." But I think that this is a major, important message that the leaders of the free world should send: We will support Ukraine until victory. And most probably, I would say, the victory of Ukraine means also some possible change in Russia -- not necessarily a positive one. It could also be the other way around. But at least there is a chance for change, also within Russia. But currently, I would say that the only viable way is not to impose sanctions on that or another judge or prosecutor or the warden of the prison where Mr. Navalny died but actually to double down on the support for Ukraine.... We talked [before this interview] about the lesson learned from 2008, from Russia's aggression against Georgia. Now everyone is saying that if we were smart enough then, then probably the war in Europe, as we know it now, would never have started. That's not the case anymore. I think that now -- and I repeat this whenever I meet the press or colleagues if they don't realize -- not providing enough help to Ukraine means [a] kind of cease-fire or the end of hostilities...probably for the time being. But Russia has shown over the last 16-plus years that it's on a war footing, and it will continue. So, from that point of view, I would not look so much at how to respond to Mr. Navalny's death -- with what kind of sanctions, what kind of scenarios could develop. I would say this has reinforced the message that we have to continue fighting Russia any way we can. And we know that Ukraine is fighting not only for us but, to some extent, I would say Ukraine is fighting instead of us. RFE/RL: You pledged when you visited Kyiv, with [Ukrainian] President [Volodymyr] Zelenskiy, that Latvia would stand with Ukraine until its victory. And I want to ask you what this victory looks like today? What would be a victory that would be acceptable for Ukraine and, in a broader sense, the West? Rinkevics: I think that this is a question that is very easily answerable, but it's not very easily deliverable. The Ukrainian president has presented his peace formula. We are going to meet hopefully next month -- it depends, of course, on the organization [of it], at a first peace summit. I hope that the [approach] is going to be quite broad and...the peace formula is a Ukraine that is gaining control of its own internationally recognized borders. RFE/RL: Do you ever see Putin agreeing to that? Rinkevics: That's where we are going to the second part of my answer, where I say that it's very easy to answer and difficult to deliver. And yes, this year is going to be difficult -- difficult in the way that we are not delivering enough, we know that. And yes, we are ramping up the defense industry; there are [things] that are good. We are also going to see to it that Ukraine receives more sophisticated weapons also throughout this year. But I think that the only way Russia can start to talk about the end of hostilities and agreeing to the peace formula is if they understand that they can't advance anymore and that they are losing ground and, to some extent, that their own internal stability of the regime is threatened. And that is where, if I am asked the time line, I wouldn't be able to give it, and a lot depends on Ukrainians and on us. RFE/RL: I won't ask you about the time line, but I will ask you about whether there is willingness in the West to do that. Rinkevics: All my colleagues with whom I was speaking understand that, at this point, this is a very complex issue. There is an example of 2008 Georgia; there is an example [from] 2014 [with] Crimea and Donbas. And there is an example also of subversive actions when it comes to our own election process [in Latvia] back in 2016-17. We see also the attempts to intimidate, maybe, in countries like Moldova -- you name it. But there is this difficulty [in] that we as leaders are trying to find the right way to talk with our publics. Why? Because there is a bit of fatigue. If you switch on the TV or you look at news sites, you see "Ukraine war." Some people still continue watching, [others] simply move to something else. We do have this very complex situation in the Middle East, which also has taken a toll on the global community. And then, of course, you understand that if there is a stalemate, then Russia can regroup, and then you have to honestly tell your public that you have to be prepared for all kinds of scenarios. I myself am saying that we should not approach the current situation with [a] sense of gloom and doom, but we have to be prepared [for] all kinds of scenarios. And also, back home, it requires some effort to mobilize [the] civil [defenses]. It has to be reconfigured according to the experience from Ukraine, or more defense spending, or the establishment of conscription, or building the Baltic defense line. We have plenty of work to do. RFE/RL: On that note, recently, some Scandinavian countries told their people that it's not an unrealistic possibility that Russia will try to launch an attack against them in three to five years' time. Suppose you go out in Riga and tell that to the Latvian population, what would the reaction be? Rinkevics: First of all, the Latvian population is smart enough to read all the news and [hear about] everything that either I or the foreign minister or the defense minister or any high-level officials are saying to them -- or [what] any admirals or high-level officials of any [other] countries are saying. So that eventuality is being counted [on]. But you know, probably for us, some of those discoveries that we hear from other capitals in the West, that discovery is not anything new. We knew that Russia is getting more and more belligerent. We saw what is happening in Georgia, in Ukraine. We saw what is happening in our neighboring Belarus in 2021 when, with the assistance of President Putin, [Belarusian President Alyaksandr] Lukashenka was suppressing unrest. So, this is not anything that I would say is new. But having said that, I see that there is a need to somehow tell the public that, first of all, we need to spend more on security, including both defense and internal security. Yes, we have to work with our allies. Yes, we don't have anything better than NATO. But at the same time, we also should not approach this as a fact. So probably for us, it's a bit of a different narrative than for some of those countries that even a couple of years ago were saying that it's not imaginable, it's impossible. Now everything is possible. And we should understand that when we are past this phase, that we acknowledge the problem, that we start to address it. And the solution is more defense industry, more defense spending. RFE/RL: Ukrainian President Zelenskiy warned of the dangers to Poland and to the Baltics. With that in mind, and with Russia's known tactics of "passportization" and using Russian-speaking populations in other countries for aggression, how concerned are you that that could be a threat in Latvia, with its rather sizable Russian-speaking minority? Rinkevics: We do take some of the security challenges...seriously. And that's why there has been legislation passed [for] a more rigorous vetting process. And at the same time, I would say that we were also well aware of some of those tactics long in advance. We have seen [widespread] attempts to issue Russian passports 10 years ago, when we were introducing our social-security system reform, raising the pension age. Suddenly all those people who took Russian passports and refused the Latvian [passports], the noncitizens, understood that actually life is not as nice as it seems. I would say that, to some extent, this situation is a bit different than it used to be, or than it still is in Georgia or Ukraine. RFE/RL: For the better? Rinkevics: I would say it's not for the better, it's just different. Indeed, we also addressed some of those concerns, and we are talking with those people who live in Latvia and are not speaking Latvian as their native language. If you look at opinion polls, they present a very interesting picture: There is about a quarter [of those not using Latvian as their native language] supporting Ukraine; a quarter are supporting Mr. Putin; and the rest is either not giving an exact answer or saying they are confused. Of course, it would be very wise to try to understand how they are confused and why they are not answering the question. I would say that we take this issue seriously, too. But I would also say that, unlike in some other countries, you don't have very compact parts, especially in parts of Latvia where there are only, let's say, Russian speakers; it's a bit more [of a] complex picture. But nevertheless, I do believe also that seeing what's happening in Ukraine, many of those who would probably support Putin and how great he is and what he does somewhere else, they wouldn't be very happy to see missiles flying into their own apartment, or drones flying into their own apartment. I think that this needs to be taken into account. RFE/RL: How do you see coexistence with Russia, in general, in the future? Let's say there's a cease-fire or some kind of settlement. Do you ever see yourself going to Russia? What kind of welcome or reception would you expect? Rinkevics: It's impossible to imagine that during my mandate I would be going to Russia or receiving any Russian official. I don't think it's going to happen.... I don't believe that, even with the best possible scenario that we're talking about in this interview, that we are going to see Russia changing in a radical way for democracy, where human rights and rule of law would be expected. The whole history of Russia shows that, yes, there are waves. There are waves when they turn to the West and they want to be like the West. They never quite get there. RFE/RL: That's the thing about the waves, they come and go. Rinkevics: Yes. Now we are in the wave where Russia is completely turning away from being part of Western civilization with all the elements we know. But that wave is also going to disappear. My concern [at] this point would be that if Russia feels that it has won, it will try its luck; if Russia feels that it has lost but the current regime continues to be in power, then there will be a kind of humiliation and probably there will be an attempt to somehow correct the mistake. So, like it or not, we are going to face in the next years, or maybe decades, living next to a very unpredictable, dangerous country.... RFE/RL: I want to ask you about this enduring reluctance of the so-called Old West to see Russia from the perspective that the Baltics or Poland or Eastern Europeans in general see it. Even when history seemingly proves that your way of seeing Russia is right. Rinkevics: To some extent, I think that the last two years showed that we are getting closer, but we have not met each other yet. I think that we are getting closer, because there is an understanding that in the 21st century, Russia can use very brutal means to launch a war; Russia can kill innocent civilians. But I think that there are also two other elements that I'm trying to understand when I'm talking with [our] Western counterparts. One is that we still have a bit [of a] different history. Most of Western Europe was under Nazi occupation, it got liberated, [and] Germany became one of the leading global and European powers -- a completely great success story. We got another 50 years of Soviet occupation that ended relatively recently -- only 33 years ago. And that's why we have those kinds of memories. Second, I think that everyone was so excited that the Cold War was over, and there was this kind of very wishful thinking that is very difficult to get rid of. And then finally, let's not forget that there are also many other pressing issues for many bigger or smaller European countries. Russia is part of the UN Security Council; it has global reach, and, to some extent, I think that there is this kind of feeling that, if [Russia were] properly [addressed], you could probably get some kind of deal. I don't believe that. I see that all the deals are honored by Russia only if they believe they serve their interests. As soon as it's over, they break them -- be it Ukraine, be it Georgia, be it any other international treaty they have signed throughout the last 30 years. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/latvia-president-rinkevics- ukraine-putin-russia-war-interview/32828001.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 Statement by Russian Defence Ministry 20.02.2024 At around 08.00 a.m., the Russian Armed Forces have foiled another attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack by fixed-wing UAVs against facilities on the territory of the Russian Federation. One Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle was shot down over Bryansk region and one over Kaluga region by alerted air defence systems. Department for Media Affairs and Information NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Forces Carried Out Operation to Take Control of Avdeyevka With Minimal Losses - Shoigu Sputnik News 20240220 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia has been preparing the operation to take control of Avdeyevka since the fall of 2023, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday. On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a bilateral meeting with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, where the minister reported on the latest developments in the special op zone to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. Liberation of Avdeyevka Shoigu elaborated on the success of the Russian army in complete liberation of the settlement of Avdeyevka that holds serious strategic importance in the area. "Preparations for it [the operation] began a long time ago, it required to create a sufficiently large number of forces in north and south-west of Avdeyevka. The General Staff has been planning this work, preparing for it ... since last fall," Shoigu said after a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Russian General Staff managed to carried out the operation to take control of Avdeyevka with minimal losses, the minister said, adding that Russian troops carried out 460 strikes per day on the city, which is 200 tonnes of ammunition. Russian offensive operations after the fight for Avdeyevka are directed west, 72 square km (27.7 square miles) have been taken under control, Shoigu noted. The minister also added that the Ukrainian armed forces fled Avdeyevka, leaving many wounded soldiers, weapons and mined areas behind. "The enemy, flees [Avdeyevka], leaving many prisoners, many wounded behind. A lot of weapons were abandoned, a lot of portable anti-aircraft missile systems pipes. A lot of work is underway on mine clearance," he mentioned. The footage from Russian drones shows that the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Avdeyevka was not organized, Shoigu said. Sergei Shoigu added that Ukraine has suffered some 2,400 military casualties in the fight for Avdeyevka on February 17-18. Ukraine's 'Counteroffensive' Sergei Shoigu spoke of Ukraine's last year's counteroffensive, saying that Russia's general staff and intelligence have received information about planned Ukrainian counteroffensive at the beginning of 2023. "In fact, the situation developed as follows: at the beginning of last year, the general staff and all types of intelligence received information that a serious counteroffensive was being prepared," Shoigu told reporters. He also mentioned that Ukraine's counteroffensive was planned abroad, mainly in the Baltic states. "It was all planned, naturally, by the staff and the headquarters that was created, it still works there today... It works like in the near abroad, in their neighboring countries ... the Baltic states," he said. The failure of Kiev's operation showed that their methods "are not so unique and successful," the minister added. The minister went on to note that Russia had built deeply layered defense along the entire line of contact prior to Ukraine's counteroffensive, but the location of Kiev's main attack was not known beforehand. "Realizing that we cannot waste time waiting, the president [Vladimir Putin] decided to create a deeply layered defense line along the entire line of contact," Shoigu told reporters. According to the minister, the Ukrainian command planned to deploy up to 160,000 troops, 800 tanks and 150 aircraft and helicopters during the counteroffensive. "By the word 'serious' [counteroffensive] we mean not 100, not 200 people, when a group of almost 160,000 was being prepared, or to be more precise, 110 battalions plus 30 battalions almost in reserve, 800 tanks, almost 150 aircraft - airplanes and helicopters, more than 2,500 armored vehicles," he underlined. The minister outlined the estimated losses of the Ukrainian army during their counteroffensive efforts last year. "They lost 166,000 [soldiers as] killed and wounded... more than 800 tanks, almost 2,400 different armored fighting vehicles a armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles ... in fact, from what they have today, more than half of the Leopards were destroyed, they lost 123 planes and helicopters in this direction," Shoigu noted. He later mentioned that the main goal of Ukraine's counteroffensive was to reach the Sea of Azov. However, the Ukrainian troops failed to reach even the first line of defense. "The aim was making a corridor to Mariupol, there ... Melitopol-Berdyansk, and the enemy had to go to Azov, regain the Sea of Azov, move ... to the Crimea. The whole idea that they tried to bring to life was dedicated to this," Shoigu emphasized. NATO Capabilities in Support of Ukrainian Troops The Defense Minister presented figures pertaining to the number of NATO equipment supporting Ukrainian forces. "There are 67 NATO satellites alone, special reconnaissance satellites. And if we take together the satellite grouping of countries that support NATO countries, then this turns out to be 260 satellites that work against us and transmit information about the movement [of Russian troops] and many other things almost online," Shoigu mentioned. Developments in the Kherson Region Minister Shoigu reported that Russia has successfully cleared out the territory of Krynky in the Kherson Region, where Ukraine had previously deployed four marine corps brigades, aiming to reach Crimea's western coast. "All the clearance has been completed [in Krynky]," he said, adding that Ukraine had four marine corps brigades there. Ukraine's goal was to reach "the western coast of Crimea," the minister noted, also mentioning that Ukraine lost 13,000 soldiers in the Kherson area alone during the counteroffensive last year. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada Announces Supply of Over 800 Drones Worth $95Mln to Ukraine Sputnik News 20240220 MOSCOW, (Sputnik) - Canada will send more than 800 multi-purpose SkyRanger R70 drones worth over $95 million to Ukraine, the Canadian government said on Monday. "Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced that Canada will donate more than 800 SkyRanger R70 multi-mission Unmanned Aerial Systems to Ukraine. These drones, valued at over $95 million, will help Ukraine as it fights bravely to defend itself amongst Russia's illegal and unjustifiable full-scale invasion," the government said in a statement. The statement added that since the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, Canada allocated over $9.7 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including $2.4 billion in military aid. Western countries have been providing military and financial aid to Kiev since the start of Russia's 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. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine continues to work on bilateral security agreements and most importantly on acquiring NATO membership - Andriy Yermak President of Ukraine 20 February 2024 - 21:00 Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak emphasizes that our state is concluding unprecedented bilateral security agreements, which are an intermediate stage towards the main security commitment - full membership in NATO. He stated this during the Unified News telethon. Andriy Yermak said that the agreements signed on February 16 with Germany and France, and previously with the United Kingdom, cover a wide range of cooperation areas with partners and true friends of Ukraine, who have supported our state since the first days of Russia's full-scale aggression. "Starting from the restoration of Ukraine's internationally recognized borders in 1991 to joint military production, localization. They also contain absolutely specific figures regarding assistance," he said. Furthermore, these agreements address sanctions, accountability of the aggressor state, the training of Ukrainian military personnel, direct financial assistance for the resilience of the Ukrainian economy, combating Russian disinformation, and intelligence cooperation. "The main thing is to assist us in strengthening our defense capabilities and readiness for any attempts of new aggressions," said the head of the President's Office. Andriy Yermak noted that all agreements already concluded and those to be signed later with other states contain all the necessary positions laid down in the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, adopted at the NATO summit in Vilnius in the summer of 2023. According to him, Ukraine is also working to ensure that each agreement is extremely substantive and even goes beyond the basic conditions laid down in this declaration, having its own specifics with each country. "The signing of these agreements is an intermediate stage towards our main security commitment - full membership in NATO. Therefore, all these agreements envisage, in particular, support for Ukraine's future EU membership and aspirations to become a NATO member," Andriy Yermak said. Speaking about the meeting of the International Working Group on Ukraine's Security and Euro-Atlantic Integration, which he held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference together with former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the Head of the President's Office reminded that the goal of this group is to create an appropriate atmosphere and ensure the support of influential world politicians for the necessity of accelerating Ukraine's accession to NATO. In particular, this working group is tasked with changing the minds of some politicians in NATO member countries who, for example, believe that Ukraine's accession or invitation to join the Alliance will cause additional escalation from Russia. "In Ukraine, on the contrary, we believe that not inviting us in Washington will be a new escalation because Russia will use it as a signal that it has a right of veto," said Andriy Yermak. The head of the President's Office also emphasized that during the Munich Security Conference, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had extremely substantive meetings with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, delegations from the Senate and House of Representatives of the U.S. Congress, focusing primarily on the importance of adopting a critically important decision on defense support for our country. "The positive feeling that all of this will happen remains with us after these meetings. And the conversation with President Biden was very substantive and optimistic. He assured our President that the United States stands with Ukraine. President Biden himself, his administration, and the State Department are doing everything to expedite the resolution of this issue," said Andriy Yermak. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine and Canada held a two-day round of talks on a bilateral security agreement President of Ukraine 20 February 2024 - 20:02 A Ukrainian negotiating team headed by Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva held a two-day round of talks on a bilateral security agreement with a Canadian delegation led by Political Director of Global Affairs Canada Heidi Hulan, who is on a visit to Ukraine. Both sides continued discussing thematic blocks and specific provisions of the agreement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A real, honest end to the war cannot happen without fully restoring justice - address by the President to the participants of the U.S. Helsinki Commission's hearing on "Holding Russia Accountable for War Crimes Against Ukraine: Lessons from Nuremberg". President of Ukraine 20 February 2024 - 15:45 Dear Chairman Wilson! Dear Members of the Helsinki Commission and all the defenders of justice! First of all, I want to thank the Commission and everyone supporting its work for organizing this crucial hearing. This event is significant not only for the Commission's efforts, nor is it solely about our shared goal of holding all Russian war criminals accountable. Your work also serves as a vital signal to people worldwide. Today, the hearings take place in the same room where, after World War II, justice helped lay the foundations for a new and lasting protection of life and human rights. In Courtroom 600, the site of the groundbreaking Nuremberg Trials of Nazi officials, American Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson delivered his famous opening statement. And it's terrible news that even after so many years and lessons, humanity must revisit the Nuremberg principles to punish a new, large-scale Russian evil following Hitler's footsteps. But, on the bright side, it's good news that there are still those ready to return to these principles and administer justice. Our unity works for the good of our nations and all the people in the world. First human rights fall, then wars arise. This is a fact. And it should become a universal truth that a real, honest, and reliable end to the war cannot happen without fully restoring justice for all those whose rights and lives have been shattered by the war. No war can be truly ended without bringing to justice those thugs responsible for sparking this war, killing and torturing, deporting children and adults, and who attempted to brutally extinguish the flames of freedom and resistance in occupied territories. There is no crime against humanity and life that Putin's Russia and those serving its insane dictator have not committed. The world has seen Ukrainian cities and villages burned to the ground by the Russian army. Everyone has at least heard about the mass killings that inevitably follow the Russian flag across occupied territories. It is impossible to reconcile with the pain of families torn-apart by Putin's war and the deportation of Ukrainian children. We know the names of nearly 20,000 children who have been deported. And this is likely just a part of the larger number - potentially hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children could have been deported. Children whom Russia refuses to return to their families and homeland, children who are now being taught to hate liberty. And we must also not forget about millions of Ukrainians surviving under the Russian occupation, deprived of even the most basic human rights. Ladies and gentlemen! Let there be no obstacles on the path to justice! Just as Nazism was condemned, Putin's state must face the same fate. He places himself alongside Hitler, justifying his actions in the Second World War. He is trying to plunge the entire free world into the same suffering he has brought to Ukraine and our people. Various nations have united to help stop Russia's aggression. And I thank every nation, every leader, and all political figures worldwide who are helping to protect Ukraine. You are truly on the right side of history. At the same time, I urge everyone who can hasten the arrival of a real peace. A peace that will free all Ukrainians from Russian domination across our entire land. A peace that, like after World War II, will be based on condemning the war criminals and their ideology. A peace that will ensure a happy and safe life for generations to come. We can bring such peace - together, in unity, and with all the support needed. And, of course, I want to thank each and everyone in the United States who cherish freedom just as Ukrainians do, and Mr. President Biden and the Administration, and everybody in the U.S. Congress who helps, and to all our partners worldwide. Thank you for your determination! When determination arises and justice prevails, the aggressor falls and evil gets punished. Action makes a difference. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zelenskyy Welcomes Sweden's $683 Million Military Aid Package By VOA News February 20, 2024 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday welcomed a $683 million military aid package from Sweden, which comes as Ukrainian leaders continue to push for more international help in their fight against Russia's full-scale invasion. Zelenskyy called Sweden's support "a significant contribution to Ukraine's resilience in the face of Russian aggression and a powerful investment in preserving peace and freedom in Europe." "Artillery ammunition, air defense, grenade launchers, combat boats, armored vehicles, and other items are meeting some of our frontline warriors' most pressing needs," Zelenskyy posted on social media. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the aid package was the largest yet his country is supplying to Ukraine, and that the equipment and weapons meet "some of Ukraine's most pressing needs." "Ukraine is not only defending its own freedom but that of all of Europe," Jonson said. "Sweden will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. Russia cannot be allowed to win this war." Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal said Tuesday that while Ukraine's military has gotten U.S. and European support, it needs more long-range missiles to bolster its air defenses against Russian attacks. "Unfortunately, now they prevail in the air and unfortunately this leads to some consequences from the frontline," Shmyhal said. Zelenskyy said Monday after visiting the front line near the northeastern city of Kupiansk that Russia is exploiting delays in military aid to Ukraine. "There is now an extremely difficult situation in several parts of the front line, precisely where Russian troops have concentrated maximum reserves," Zelenskyy said. Ukraine's biggest supplier of military aid, the United States, has not delivered a new round of aid since December when funding ran out. U.S. President Joe Biden has struggled to push a $95 billion package of international security assistance for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan through Congress over the opposition of numerous Republican lawmakers. Biden said Monday he would be willing to meet with House Speaker Mike Johnson to discuss the issue. "Sure I'd be happy to meet with him, if he has anything to say," Biden told reporters Monday. At the same time, Biden swiped at Republican lawmakers for not continuing to fund Ukraine's two-year fight to defend itself against Russia's invasion. "The way they're walking away from the threat of Russia. The way they're walking away from NATO. The way they're walking away from meeting our obligations ... I've never seen anything like it," Biden said. A spokesperson for Johnson said the speaker had been trying to meet with Biden for weeks. Raj Shah welcomed Biden's "openness to meeting with Speaker Johnson about the best path forward for securing the nation," and said, "It's long overdue." With bipartisan support, the Democratic-controlled Senate approved the spending package. Johnson, leader of the narrow Republican majority in the House of Representatives, has balked at sending the measure to the House floor for a vote, in part because former President Donald Trump opposes the new aid. Johnson has complained that the foreign assistance package contains no new controls to block the influx of tens of thousands of illegal migrants crossing from Mexico into the United States. But Senate Republicans, at the behest of Trump, blocked consideration of a bipartisan proposal to tighten migration restrictions. Russia sanctions Ukraine's military reported fresh Russian drone attacks Tuesday, while pressure built toward new sanctions against Russia following the death of imprisoned opposition leader Alexey Navalny. Ukraine's air force said the country's air defenses destroyed all 23 Russian drones. The intercepts happened over multiple regions of Ukraine, including Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv. The Russian attack also included four guided missiles. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Shmyhal on Tuesday urged Japan and the European Union to enact new sanctions against Russia. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin "will be held accountable" for Navalny's death. Biden said Monday his administration is considering additional Russia sanctions, and he blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian leader's "thugs" for Navalny's death last week. "We already have sanctions," Biden told reporters at the White House, "but we're considering additional sanctions, yes." 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 Selbyville, Delaware , Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market could reach USD 32.9 billion by 2032, as per a recent study by Global Market Insights Inc. As per the report, escalating investments in research and development and launches in production technologies will catalyze the industry growth of sustainable aviation fuel over 20232032. This commitment reflects a growing recognition of the imperative to reduce aviation's carbon footprint. Advanced technologies are fostering innovation in SAF production, improving efficiency, and driving down costs. These investments propel the industry towards sustainable practices and position it for sustained growth. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/7733 For instance, in 2023, Lummus introduced a technology for sustainable aviation fuel based on ethanol. This technology offers operators a commercially proven, large-scale solution to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation industry. This launch bolsters the market by providing a scalable and proven solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation sector. HEFA-SPK to technology to gain traction Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market size from the HEFA-SPK (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty AcidsSynthetic Paraffinic Kerosene) segment will exhibit significant CAGR by 2032, owing to the segment's remarkable potential in producing high-quality bio-based aviation fuels. With its ability to seamlessly integrate into existing infrastructure and meet stringent industry specifications, HEFA-SPK will stand out as a key player in the sustainable aviation fuel industry. As demand for eco-friendly alternatives soars, the HEFA-SPK segment will emerge as a pivotal driver, driving the market towards a greener aviation future. Military Aviation to retain its prominence The military aviation segment will achieve a remarkable Sustainable Aviation Fuel market share between 2024 and 2032, attributed to a heightened global emphasis on military organizations adopting environmentally responsible practices. With governments worldwide pushing for greener defense operations, the military aviation sector is prioritizing the integration of sustainable fuels. This commitment aligns with eco-conscious objectives and will position the military aviation segment as a major contributor to the market expansion. Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/7733 Asia Pacific to lead the sustainable aviation fuel market Asia Pacific Sustainable Aviation Fuel Industry will register significant expansion from 2024 to 2032 due to escalating environmental concerns and an increasing focus on sustainable aviation practices. Countries in the region are actively investing in renewable energy sources, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector. As a major contributor to the aviation industry's green transition, the APAC's commitment to adopting and producing sustainable aviation fuels is pivotal in shaping the future of eco-friendly air travel. Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Players Companies including Neste, Preem AB, World Energy, Gevo Inc., Aemetis Inc., Alder Fuels, Lanza Jet, Northwest Advanced Biofuels, Red Rock Biofuels, Shell Plc, SkyNRG BV, World Energy, and Fulcrum BioEnergy are operating in the sustainable aviation fuel industry. These players are investing in research and development, optimizing production processes, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders. Additionally, regulatory support and incentive programs are encouraging businesses to prioritize sustainable practices, facilitating their growth in the SAF sector. With a collective commitment to reducing carbon footprints and meeting environmental targets, these companies are actively contributing to market expansion, ensuring a more sustainable trajectory for the aviation industry. For instance, in 2024, the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) and Airbus entered a Memorandum of Understanding to explore novel technology routes and assess locally produced Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in India. Browse Our Reports Store - GMIPulse @ https://www.gminsights.com/gmipulse About Global Market Insights Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology. New York, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The privileged access management (PAM) market, valued at USD 3.93 billion in 2023, is poised for significant growth, projected to reach USD 21.8 billion by 2033 with a robust 19.21% CAGR. The surge is driven by the heightened demand for multi-cloud and hybrid technologies and the escalating cybersecurity threats. PAM involves integrating advanced technologies to safeguard and control access to critical company data, aiming to enhance security and reduce the risk of unauthorized access to privileged accounts. Notably, PAM solutions employ strong authentication, permission, and auditing systems, strengthening defenses against both external and internal threats. Get additional highlights on major revenue-generating segments, Request a Privileged Access Management Solutions Market sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/privileged-access-management-solutions-market/request-sample/ A key advantage of the PAM solutions market is its ability to centralize and simplify the management of privileged accounts, enabling automation to replace manual processes. This results in reduced administrative costs, improved accuracy, and consistent privileged access management across organizations. Innovations in biometric authentication, machine learning algorithms, and seamless integration with cybersecurity tools further advance the PAM market. Biometric authentication adds an extra layer of security, while machine learning algorithms enable proactive threat detection, addressing security issues swiftly. Leading technology companies are heavily investing in PAM solutions, underlining their growing importance for safeguarding digital infrastructures, with smart cybersecurity firms incorporating PAM features into their existing products. Key Takeaways The software segment rules the component market segment due to its growing demand for robust security measures. Cloud-based dominates the deployment mode market segment as it delivers flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. BFSI leads the end-user market segment due to its digitization of financial services and the potential of cyberattacks. North America dominates the market segment as it hosts major technology and financial corporations, accentuating the region's amplified need for robust security measures. Driving Factors Strict Data Protection Regulations As data privacy is important, regulatory compliance requirements have been strained. Governments and industry authorities around the world have acknowledged the need for enhanced data protection measures to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of personal and commercial data. Failure to follow these rules can lead to financial, reputational, and legal consequences. Rise in cyber security threats and data breaches Hackers and malevolent actors can exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive data due to our interconnected lives, businesses, and devices. Businesses are realizing the importance of strong privileged access security to secure key assets and prevent illegal access. Privileged access management solutions market reduces cyber threats and data breaches. Using privileged access management solutions, organizations may impose rigorous access rules, monitor privileged user activity, and detect suspicious or abnormal behavior that may suggest a breach. To understand how our report can bring a difference to your business strategy, Inquire about a brochure at https://marketresearch.biz/report/privileged-access-management-solutions-market/#inquiry Restraining Factors Absence of Competent Professionals to handle Privileged Access Solutions A main restraining aspect is the lack of experienced professionals who possess the expertise to manage privileged access solutions. As demand for these solutions grows, organizations often struggle to locate experts to handle the implementation, setup, and continuing management of privileged access management systems. Growth Opportunities AI-Powered Threat Revealing the Growth of Privileged Access Management Market Organizations may improve their threat detection and response capabilities by implementing AI and machine learning capabilities into the privileged access management solutions market. This connection helps organizations detect illegal access, insider risks, and data breaches. The market demand for privileged access management solutions with advanced threat detection technology is promising. The surge in demand for Privileged Access Management Demand for inclusive security solutions is expanding in the privileged access management solutions market. Organizations are realizing the importance of successfully managing and controlling access to sensitive data and vital systems as cyber-attacks become more sophisticated. Thus, the demand for privileged access management solutions has increased. Have Queries? Speak to an expert or To Download/Request a Sample Click here. Report Attribute Details Market Value (2023) USD 3.93 Billion Market Size (2033) USD 21.8 Billion CAGR (from 2024 to 2033) 19.21% from 2024 to 2033 North America Region Revenue Share 38% Historic Period 2016 to 2023 Base Year 2023 Forecast Year 2024 to 2033 Regional Analysis In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses highlight cybersecurity, driving the domination of Privileged Access Management (PAM) Solutions in North America. PAM assists in safeguarding sensitive data by regulating user access to privileged accounts. The market has witnessed substantial growth, with a projected $7.6 billion valuation by 2027, showcasing a 10.3% CAGR. Industries such as banking, healthcare, IT, telecommunications, and government are driving PAM adoption. North America's prominence in the PAM market is attributed to hosting major technology and financial corporations, accentuating the region's amplified need for robust security measures. Segment Analysis By component analysis, the software segment rules the market segment due to its growing demand for robust security measures. Organizations may secure their vital systems and data with the help of the software segment's extensive feature set and functionalities. Businesses are becoming more aware of the necessity for strong security measures to protect their sensitive information as these economies experience significant expansion. The software segment provides tools and technologies to secure system access and prevent illegal activity. With more high-profile data breaches and cyber-attacks, individuals and businesses are realizing the importance of privileged access management. By deployment mode analysis, cloud-based dominates the market segment as it delivers flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Emerging economies are driving cloud-based PAM solutions adoption. As businesses in these economies flourish, demand for secure data access grows. Cloud deployment meets their increasing security needs with scalability and affordability. Consumer attitudes and behavior regarding cloud-based PAM solutions are favorable. Businesses are discovering the benefits of cloud implementation, including lower infrastructure costs, simplified management, and increased access. The cloud segment of the privileged access management solutions market is expected to register the quickest growth rate. First, the scalability of cloud-based solutions lets businesses seamlessly expand their privileged access management capabilities as their demands develop. By End-use industry analysis, BFSI leads the market segment due to its digitization of financial services and the potential of cyberattacks. PAM solutions protect BFSI systems and data with complete security features. These economies' financial services sectors are growing rapidly, necessitating stronger security. The BFSI consumer trend and behavior toward PAM solutions is encouraging. Businesses and individuals in the BFSI industry are becoming increasingly aware of the need for privileged access management as a result of the complexity of financial transactions and the developing threat landscape. PAM solutions provide organizations with tools and technologies to secure their key systems and prevent unwanted access. For more insights on the historical and Forecast market data from 2016 to 2033 - download a sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/privileged-access-management-solutions-market/request-sample/ The segment covered in this report By Component Software Service By Deployment Mode On-Premises Cloud By End-Use Industry BFSI IT & Telecommunication Government Sector Healthcare Energy and Utilities Other End-Use Industries By Geography North America Europe Asia-Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Grow your profit margin with Marketresearch.biz - Purchase This Premium Report at https://marketresearch.biz/purchase-report/?report_id=39430 Competitive Landscape Analysis In the privileged access management solutions market, key players like BeyondTrust Corporation, Centrify Corporation, CyberArk Software Ltd, SecureAuth Corporation, One Identity LLC, and Zoho Corporation Pvt Ltd lead with distinct expertise and technologies. Centrify Corporation stands out by offering a unified infrastructure for privileged access management, seamlessly integrating identity and access management (IAM) with privileged access management (PAM). Their comprehensive solution encompasses multi-factor authentication, privileged identity management, privileged session management, and privileged password management, providing organizations with scalable security measures to effectively combat the rising tide of cyber threats. Key Players BeyondTrust Corporation. Centrify Corporation. CyberArk Software Ltd. SecureAuth Corporation. One Identity LLC Zoho Corporation Pvt Ltd. Ekran System Simeio Solutions Recent Developments In 2022 , ThycoticCentrify, a renowned name in the cyber security industry, introduced its new Privileged Access Management (PAM) system, ThycoticCentrify Privilege Cloud,. , ThycoticCentrify, a renowned name in the cyber security industry, introduced its new Privileged Access Management (PAM) system, ThycoticCentrify Privilege Cloud,. In 2021 , IBM Security's acquisition of Resilient Systems, a prominent provider of security orchestration automation and response (SOAR) solutions, made headlines. , IBM Security's acquisition of Resilient Systems, a prominent provider of security orchestration automation and response (SOAR) solutions, made headlines. In 2020 , ForeScout Technologies, a prominent player in the PAM industry, finalized its acquisition of Perspecsys. , ForeScout Technologies, a prominent player in the PAM industry, finalized its acquisition of Perspecsys. In 2019, The renowned identity and access management (IAM) provider Okta acquired the prominent IAM market player Auth0. Browse More Related Reports The care management solution market size was valued at USD 16.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to increase its market growth to USD 52.7 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.5% The flexible workspace market was valued at USD 50.2 billion in 2023. It is expected to reach USD 135.8 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 12.17% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033. The Ataxia market was valued at USD 11,558.3 million in 2023. It is expected to reach USD 20,778.5 million by 2033, with a CAGR of 6.20% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033. About Us: MarketResearch.Biz (Powered by Prudour Pvt Ltd) specializes in in-depth market research and analysis and has been proving its mettle as a consulting and customized market research company, apart from being a much sought-after syndicated market research report-providing firm. MarketResearch.Biz provides customization to suit any specific or unique requirement and tailor-made reports as per request. We go beyond boundaries to take analytics, analysis, study, and outlook to newer heights and broader horizons. Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketresearch-biz/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketresearch.biz Follow Us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrudourResearch A bill has been proposed to impose a $25 climate tax on tourists who are jetting to visit Hawaii to minimise the impacts of and respond to climate crises. The Aloha State continues to recover from the rampant wildfires that devastated Lahaina in Maui, which left at least 100 dead and racked up to $6bn in damages. In one version of the bill listed on the Hawaii legislature website, the bill said the wildfire tragedies are a wake-up call for all Hawaii residents, businesses, and public agencies to significantly increase efforts to prevent climate crises and limit the damage when crises do occur. The Maui wildfires in August 2023 are considered the deadliest blaze in the United States in more than 100 years. Lawmakers are now looking to protect their natural habitats and resources from climate change with an extra fee from the rush of tourists they receive each year. Its a very small price to pay to preserve paradise, Hawaii Governor Josh Green said to The Wall Street Journal. Last year, 9.5 million people visited Hawaii and with the recent wildfire disaster, concerns about the states environment have become more prevalent. Mr Green estimates that with this function in place, a revenue of $68m would be generated annually from the tax, USA TODAY reports. The aftermath of a wildfire is visible in Lahaina, Hawaii, 17 August 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Wildfire and flood prevention, coral reef protection, green infrastructure, coastal management, emergency drinking water supplies, and provisions for emergency electricity are all elements that would be covered by the tax, according to the bill. The bill added that the money would also protect lives, homes, businesses and other tourist sites, among others. "We already collect fees from travellers. This modest fee is far less than the resort fees or other taxes visitors have paid for years," Mr Green said in a speech, according to the outlet. "So I believe in my heart this is not too much to ask of visitors to our islands. Now, Im open to any other proposal that would achieve the same goals." Story continues Hawaii already considered a similar scheme last year, proposing a $50 green fee, but it did not succeed. "Ill renew our efforts to pass a climate impact fee to help us stare down the terrible impacts of climate change," Mr Green said, the outlet reported. Debris of former shops and businesses on Front Street in burn zone 11A is pictured on 8 December 2023 in Lahaina, Hawaii (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) "Last year, it stalled a little bit. But imagine how helpful that program would have been to address the disaster in Maui. We need to do a little better this year." Hawaii is not the first destination to address the idea of taxing tourists to keep their landscape safe, as many other countries already have systems in place. Greece recently increased their already existing hotel tax that is put in place to confront natural disasters caused by climate change, according to Lonely Planet. Similarly, Iceland is introducing a tourist tax this year to help protect its climate. The country has a goal to become carbon-neutral before 2040, and with increased travel to the country, tax is being put in place to hopefully alleviate the pressure, Bloomberg reported. Tourism has really grown exponentially in Iceland in the last decade and that obviously is not just creating effects on the climate, Iceland Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir told the outlet in September. Also most of our guests visit our unspoiled nature and obviously that creates a pressure. And it is not just tourists on-land that are being considered; Denmark is introducing a passenger tax for flights to their country, which will set back jet-setters roughly $56 for long-distance flights, $35 for medium distance and $9 for shorter flights within Europe - a plan which is proposed for 2025 and to be effective by 2030, Lonely Planet said. The money is set to go towards the use of 100 per cent sustainable fuels on domestic flights by 2030. New York, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The defense cybersecurity market, valued at USD 24.56 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 81.6 billion by 2033, with a notable 13.1% CAGR. The surge in military demand and the escalating frequency of cybersecurity attacks are key drivers for this growth. Cybersecurity, a set of practices and advanced technologies, safeguards systems, information, and computer programs from unauthorized access and potential damage. With over 550 companies experiencing data breaches in 2023, the global average cost of a breach reached USD 4.45 million, prompting a 15% increase in security funding across organizations. Get additional highlights on major revenue-generating segments, Request a Defense Cybersecurity Market sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/defense-cybersecurity-market/request-sample/ Defense plays a critical role in national security, utilizing cyber capabilities to combat cyber threats on battlefields and protect sensitive information. The defense sector's mission-oriented nature and structured approach contribute to effective cyber defense measures. Governments worldwide are recognizing the gravity of cyber threats, implementing regulatory frameworks, and establishing cybersecurity agencies to secure vital infrastructure. The defense cybersecurity market's pivotal role in military applications positions it for continued growth, reflecting the increasing importance of safeguarding critical data in the evolving landscape of cyber threats. Key Takeaways Software and services dominate the platform market segment due to the growing intricacy of cyber threats that require constant monitoring and updating of security measures. Cyber threat protection rules the solution market segment due to its wide range of cybersecurity measures. Application security leads the type market segment as it secures software applications from external threats. Land force rules the end-user market segment due to their extensive use of digital and communication technologies in operations. North America commands a 39% share of the global defense cybersecurity market, driven by substantial U.S. investments in national security. Driving Factors Raise in Attack Vectors Strengthen Cybersecurity Demands Technological evolution has exposed new vulnerabilities, necessitating robust and sophisticated cybersecurity measures. The defense sector, in particular, faces unique challenges in protecting these emerging technologies from cyber threats. The imperative for market growth in the defense sector is fueled by the development and deployment of advanced cybersecurity solutions, crucial for shielding against continuously evolving threats. Government Financial Support Accelerates Governmental monetary obligations towards military and defense cybersecurity underpin market expansion. For example, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) increased its cyber capabilities budget by $19.3 million in 2023. the U.S. Department of Defense earmarked $7.4 billion for cyberspace operations in its 2024 fiscal year budget, including a significant allocation for the U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM). Data Loss Prevention is pivotal in fortifying the Defense Cybersecurity Market, shielding sensitive information from potential threats and breaches. Data Loss Prevention is pivotal in fortifying the Defense Cybersecurity Market, shielding sensitive information from potential threats and breaches. To understand how our report can bring a difference to your business strategy, Inquire about a brochure at https://marketresearch.biz/report/defense-cybersecurity-market/#inquiry Restraining Factors Legacy Systems Hinder Transforming in the Defense Cybersecurity Market The older systems are often challenging to update and secure, rendering them vulnerable to cyber threats. The U.S. Government Accountability Office continues to identify legacy IT as a major security risk, highlighting the difficulty of integrating these systems with contemporary cybersecurity tools. Such circumstances create a significant obstacle in modernizing defense cybersecurity infrastructure, as the integration process is fraught with complexities and potential security loopholes, thereby slowing down the adoption of advanced cybersecurity solutions in the defense sector. Growth Opportunities AI and Machine Learning Amalgamation Boosts Defense Cybersecurity Market These technologies are being adopted for critical tasks like threat detection, intelligence gathering, and predictive analytics. With ongoing improvements in algorithms and computational capabilities, AI and ML are poised to significantly enhance cybersecurity defenses. The U.S. Air Force's 2021 pilot of an AI-based predictive maintenance system exemplifies this trend. As these technologies evolve and prove their efficacy, their adoption in defense cybersecurity will likely increase, driving market growth and transforming cybersecurity strategies in defense sectors. Have Queries? Speak to an expert or To Download/Request a Sample, Click here. Report Attribute Details Market Value (2023) US$ 24.56 Billion Market Size (2033) US$ 81.6 Billion CAGR (from 2024 to 2033) 13.1% from 2024 to 2033 North America Region Revenue Share 39% Historic Period 2016 to 2023 Base Year 2023 Forecast Year 2024 to 2033 Regional Analysis North America commands a 39% share of the global defense cybersecurity market, driven by substantial U.S. investments in national security. Major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin contribute to the region's dominance, focusing on advanced cybersecurity solutions. The U.S. Department of Defense allocates a significant budget to cybersecurity, emphasizing critical infrastructure protection. In Europe, collaborative initiatives like the European Defense Fund and PESCO underscore the region's commitment to cybersecurity. The Asia-Pacific market experiences growth fueled by heightened geopolitical tensions, with China, India, and Japan directing substantial resources to enhance cybersecurity infrastructure against rising cyber threats. Segment Analysis By platform, software, and services dominate the market segment due to its growing intricacy of cyber threats, requiring constant monitoring and updating of security measures. The continuous evolution of cyber threats mandates regular software updates and professional services, solidifying the pre-eminence of this segment. Hardware, while also crucial, typically involves a one-time investment and lacks the dynamic adaptability offered by software and services. It includes physical devices like secure servers, routers, and hardware firewalls. By solution type, cyber threat protection rules the market segment due to its wide range of cybersecurity measures focused on protecting defense networks and systems from cyber threats, such as malware, phishing, and advanced persistent threats. Each plays a vital role in providing a comprehensive defense against various cyber threats. Cyber Threat Protection takes centre stage in the market due to its fundamental significance in safeguarding critical defense information and infrastructure. By type, application security leads the market segment as it secures software applications from external threats. Critical Infrastructure Security & Resilience and Cloud Security are also significant segments, addressing the security needs of defense infrastructure and cloud-based systems, respectively. However, the pivotal role of Application Security in protecting the software that underpins defense operations underscores its market dominance. By end-user, land force rules the market segment due to their extensive use of digital and communication technologies in operations. The protection of data and communication networks is vital for maintaining operational effectiveness and security. The breadth and scope of digital technologies used by land forces make them the primary market for defense cybersecurity solutions. For more insights on the historical and Forecast market data from 2016 to 2033 - download a sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/defense-cybersecurity-market/request-sample/ Segments covered in this report By Platform Software & Service Hardware By Solution Cyber Threat Protection Threat Evaluation Security and Vulnerability Management Data loss Prevention Management Enterprise Risk and Compliance Content Security Others By Type Critical Infrastructure Security & Resilience Application Security Cloud Security Others By End User Land Force Naval Force Air Force By Geography North America Europe Asia-Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Grow your profit margin with Marketresearch.biz - Purchase This Premium Report at https://marketresearch.biz/purchase-report/?report_id=43046 Competitive Landscape Analysis In the Defense Cybersecurity Market, industry leaders Lockheed Martin Corporation and BAE Systems play a pivotal role in fortifying defense systems. Their advanced solutions cater to specific defense needs, focusing on innovative technologies and robust cybersecurity frameworks. Accenture and IBM Corporation, with extensive IT and cybersecurity expertise, contribute by integrating cutting-edge technologies and strategic consulting services into defense strategies, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity in the realm of national security. Key Players Accenture (Ireland) DXC Technology Company BAE Systems Lockheed Martin Corporation Cisco Systems, Inc. Leidos Holding Inc. (US) AT&T Boeing EclecticIQ B.V. IBM Corporation (US) Recent Developments In December 19, 2023 , SimSpace, a US-based market leader in military-grade cybersecurity, today announced that it has closed a $45 million equity raise led by L2 Point Management, a private investment firm specializing in flexible capital solutions for growth companies. , SimSpace, a US-based market leader in military-grade cybersecurity, today announced that it has closed a $45 million equity raise led by L2 Point Management, a private investment firm specializing in flexible capital solutions for growth companies. In April 2023 , the first few months of 2023 witnessed a tremendous number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and capital placement activity in the cybersecurity segment. Highlighted below are 22 transactions, which are a representative sample of transactions that occurred in the cybersecurity market. , the first few months of 2023 witnessed a tremendous number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and capital placement activity in the cybersecurity segment. Highlighted below are 22 transactions, which are a representative sample of transactions that occurred in the cybersecurity market. In 2023, Managed cybersecurity services provider BlueVoyant Inc. announced today that it has acquired cyber defense company Conquest Cyber LLC and raised $140 million in new funding to accompany the acquisition. Browse More Related Reports Generative AI in Defense Market size is expected to be worth around USD 2912 Mn by 2032 from USD 454 Mn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 21% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. by 2032 from in 2022, growing at a during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. Marine VFD market was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2023. It is expected to reach USD 3.2 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033. Maritime Patrol Aircraft Market was valued at USD 4.13 billion in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 7.47 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.11% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. Autonomous Aircraft Market was valued at USD 7.34 billion in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 50.6 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 21.9% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. About Us: MarketResearch.Biz (Powered by Prudour Pvt Ltd) specializes in in-depth market research and analysis and has been proving its mettle as a consulting and customized market research company, apart from being a much sought-after syndicated market research report-providing firm. MarketResearch.Biz provides customization to suit any specific or unique requirement and tailor-made reports as per request. We go beyond boundaries to take analytics, analysis, study, and outlook to newer heights and broader horizons. Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketresearch-biz/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketresearch.biz Follow Us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrudourResearch Gdansk, Poland 21 February 2024 PolTREG S.A. (Warsaw Stock Exchange: PTG), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing cell therapies for a wide range of autoimmune diseases, announces today it has appointed Prof. Daniel Shelly, PhD, MBA, into the role of Chief Business Development Officer, to help PolTREG build the strategic, commercial, research and pharmaceutical partnerships that will enable the company to successfully commercialise its strong pipeline of cell therapies for diseases such as Type-1 Diabetes (T1D), Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). I am elated we were able to attract Dan to help us deliver the promise of Treg cell therapies for a wide range of autoimmune diseases. PolTREG has the most comprehensive pipeline of cell therapies for autoimmune diseases, including Type-1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis, and Dans arrival will enable us to continue to deliver the milestones that will bring our lead assets closer to market, said Prof. Piotr Trzonkowski, Chief Executive Officer of PolTREG. Dr Shelly is an astute veteran of the life science industry, with a deep understanding of biology and the Treg cell therapies that PolTREG is developing. He has a proven track record of closing business development deals for a wide range of biotech companies, including most recently several early-stage evaluation deals for Prescient Therapeutics Ltd., a clinical stage oncology company developing personalised medicine approaches to cancer, using CAR-T technologies. He was Director of Global Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for the global non-profit PATH, where he was the Co-Lead for the COVID-19 task force. He is an adjunct associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, where he teaches biologics discovery, pharmaco-economics and biotech business, publishes in scientific journals, and is a frequently invited speaker and thought leader at international cell therapy conferences. Dr Shelly has a comprehensive understanding of the clinical development pathway, with direct experience of regulatory submissions, and is skilled in clinical asset valuation and due diligence. PolTREG boasts the most advanced pipeline for Treg cell therapies in autoimmune disease, with its lead candidate, PTG-007, in mid-stage clinical studies in T1D and MS. In addition, the company expects to start First-in-Human clinical trials of its CAR-Tregs for two neurodegenerative diseases - MS and ALS in early 2025. Complementing PolTREGs innovative clinical pipeline is the recent opening of one of Europes largest CGMP cell therapy manufacturing facilities. The facility, one of the most advanced of its kind, will have over 2,100 sqm of laboratory space, including 15 operational production lines, a capacity that can be significantly further expanded. The facility already can deliver life-improving cell therapies anywhere in Europe within 24 hours post production. PolTREG was the first company in the world to administer Treg therapies to patients and the first to start receiving revenues from its lead product. So far, PolTREG has successfully treated 27 patients with PTG-007 commercially under a hospital exemption program in Poland. About PolTREG PolTREG is a global leader in developing autoimmune therapies based on T-regulatory cells (Tregs). Its lead product, PTG-007, autologous Treg treatment for early-onset Type-1 Diabetes (T1D) is ready for Phase 2/3 clinical testing, for which the company is seeking a partnership. The company will launch Phase 2 trials for PTG-007 to treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the second half of 2024, for RRMS and PPMS. PolTREG also has engineered Tregs, including CAR-Tregs, antigen-specific Tregs and TCR-Tregs, in the preclinical stage. PolTREG has completed four clinical trials with more than 100 patients treated with Tregs. For more information please visit www.poltreg.com. For further information please contact: PolTREG S.A. Prof Piotr Trzonkowski Chief Executive Officer ir@poltreg.com +48 512 532 401 Investor Relations Chris Maggos Cohesion Bureau +41 79 367 62 54 chris.maggos@cohesionbureau.com Media Relations Douwe Miedema Cohesion Bureau +352 621 562 764 douwe.miedema@cohesionbureau.com Important information The contents of this announcement include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements". These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words "believes", "estimates," "anticipates", "expects", "intends", "may", "will", "plans", "continue", "ongoing", "potential", "predict", "project", "target", "seek" or "should", and include statements the Company makes concerning the intended results of its strategy. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The company's actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. Attachments PASADENA, CA, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Giant Magellan Telescope today welcomes Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics (ASIAA), a distinguished Taiwanese research institute, into its international consortium. ASIAA's inclusion expands the consortium to 14 international research institutions, underscoring Giant Magellans significance to the global astronomy community and the consortiums commitment to prioritizing global collaboration for the advancement of science. We are thrilled to welcome ASIAA into our international consortium of distinguished partners, said Dr. Walter Massey, Board Chair of the Giant Magellan Telescope. Together, our consortium combines worldwide science expertise and engineering acumen to create a project that benefits all walks of research relating to the universe. This collective investment in the Giant Magellan Telescope is a testament that science can transcend boundaries and bind humanity together for good. The astronomical research and instrumental development capabilities in Taiwan have received international recognition. ASIAA will contribute expertise in areas such as low noise and compact detector electronics, precision detector characterization technology, precision laser cutting technology, and many others. These contributions will prove invaluable once the telescope is commissioned in the early 2030s. ASIAA is delighted to be a part of the Giant Magellan Telescope consortium, and the Taiwanese scientific community is prepared to contribute its expertise while also benefiting from the wealth of knowledge within the consortium, said Dr. Ue-Li Pen, the Director of ASIAA. Joining one of the thirty-meter-class telescopes has been a long-term aspiration for Taiwanese astronomers, and Giant Magellan is considered the most suitable project for this endeavor. The collaboration between ASIAA and the Giant Magellan Telescope establishes a robust foundation for astronomical research in Taiwan, with a particular emphasis on nurturing the development of new generations in the field. We also anticipate that this project will deepen collaboration between Taiwan and the six other countries in the consortium. Construction of the telescope advances rapidly in the Chilean Atacama Desert and in labs around the world. Over the past year, fabrication commenced on the seventh and final primary mirror in Arizona, while manufacturing of the 39-meter-tall mount structure began in Illinois. Progress includes completion of the first of seven mirror covers in Germany, and near completion of the telescopes first adaptive secondary mirror in France and Italy. Other advancements were made on a suite of high-resolution imagers and spectrographs in Arizona, Australia, California, Massachusetts, South Korea, and Texas. These optical technologies will enable the Giant Magellan to boast a remarkable tenfold increase in resolution compared to the Hubble Space Telescope and deliver up to 200 times the power of todays best telescopes. The breakthrough technologies will empower scientists worldwide, offering unparalleled insights into the evolution of the universe, the origins of chemical elements, and the discovery of life on distant exoplanets for the first time. News of ASIAAs inclusion into the Giant Magellan Telescopes international consortium was celebrated by elected officials in the United States dedicated to scientific advancements, democratic values, and international partnerships. US Senator of Arizona and former NASA Astronaut Mark Kelly emphasized how science collaborations can strengthen international relations. Arizona has long been a leader in astronomy and optical research, and thanks to key contributions from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, the Giant Magellan Telescope will lead the way making the next generation of discoveries in astronomy, said Senator Kelly. We welcome the newest collaborators from Taiwan to the Giant Magellan consortium and look forward to strengthening ties between Arizona and Taiwan through our shared commitment to democracy, education, and innovation. US Congressman of Texas and Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Michael T. McCaul, also emphasized the significance of supporting large international research initiatives. Im glad our friends in Taiwan have joined this important project, which includes top-notch research institutions like Texas A&M and The University of Texas, said Congressman McCaul. The Giant Magellan Telescope will be a ground-breaking observatory that will expand our knowledge of the universe and enable the US to maintain its dominance in ground-based optical and infrared astronomy. ASIAA joins Arizona State University, Astronomy Australia Ltd., Australian National University, Carnegie Institution for Science, Harvard University, Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, Sao Paulo Research Foundation, Smithsonian Institution, Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, University of Arizona, University of Chicago, and the Weizmann Institute of Science in building the Giant Magellan Telescope. About Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics Academia Sinica is Taiwans national academy of sciences funded by the Presidential Office of Taiwan. Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics (ASIAA) is one of 32 institutes and centers of Academia Sinica and is the leading astronomical institute in Taiwan. ASIAAs mission is to conduct fundamental, groundbreaking research in theory, observation, and instrumentation for astrophysics. Research areas cover the formation and evolution of stellar and planetary systems, cosmology and galaxies, black holes and high-energy astrophysics, the solar system, and astrophysical technology. ASIAA is located on the campus of National Taiwan University at the center of the city of Taipei and is a member of several international projects, providing opportunities for our members to conduct observations or technical developments at world-leading facilities. ASIAA is a founding member of the East-Asian Core Observatory Association (EACOA) and a member of the East-Asian Observatory (EAO). To learn more, visit asiaa.sinica.edu.tw. About Giant Magellan Telescope The Giant Magellan Telescope is the future of space exploration from Earth. Using seven of the worlds largest mirrors, the 25.4-meter telescope will produce the most detailed images ever taken of our universe. It will uncover the cosmic mysteries of dark matter, investigate the origins of chemical elements, and verify signs of life on distant planets for the first time. Giant Magellan is the work of the GMTO Corporation, an international consortium of 14 research institutions representing Australia, Brazil, Chile, Israel, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. The telescope is under construction in Chile and anticipated to be completed in the early 2030s. The Universe Awaits at giantmagellan.org . Media Contacts Ryan Kallabis Giant Magellan Telescope Director of Communications and Outreach O: +1-626-204-0554 | E: rkallabis@gmto.org Mei-Yin Chou Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Academia Sinica EPO Project Scientist O: +886-2-2366-5415 | E: cmy@asiaa.sinica.edu.tw Multimedia Multimedia assets and media usage statement available here until March 21, 2024. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/31b24074-344f-477f-96b1-2813d3278880 New York, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2023, The fuel cell market, valued at USD 8.4 billion in 2023, is poised for extraordinary growth, projected to reach USD 42.6 billion by 2033 with an 18.11% CAGR. Key drivers comprise a surge in demand for private-public alliances and the ascent of unconventional energy sources. Fuel cells, versatile devices transforming chemical fuel energy into electricity, are at the forefront of this revolution, particularly driven by the unique capabilities of hydrogen. Get additional highlights on major revenue-generating segments, Request a fuel cell market sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/global-fuel-cell-market/request-sample/ The US Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with industrial associates, universities, and national laboratories, is actively addressing technical challenges in fuel cell development. With a focus on sturdiness, the DOE has set ambitious targets for fuel cell system lifetime, ensuring performance over prolonged periods in various applications. Fuel cells find applications across sectors like transportation, residential and commercial buildings, and grid energy storage, offering benefits over conventional technologies. Operating at higher efficiency than combustion engines, fuel cells can transform chemical energy into electricity with a potential efficacy of up to 60%, resulting in lower emissions and environmental impact. Hydrogen fuel cells, producing only water as a by-product, address climate concerns, emit no pollutants, and operate quietly. The government is highlighting research and development to understand fuel cell degradation and mitigate its effects, which underscores the rising demand for fuel cells, encouraging market expansion across industries in the coming years. Key Takeaways Proton exchange membrane fuel cell dominates the product market segment due to their high power density, low operating temperature, and quick start-up capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of applications. dominates the product market segment due to their high power density, low operating temperature, and quick start-up capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of applications. Stationary applications constituting 67.5% rule the application market segment due to their capacity to deliver dependable, environmentally friendly, and efficient energy. applications constituting rule the application market segment due to their capacity to deliver dependable, environmentally friendly, and efficient energy. North America commands a robust 35% share of the global fuel cell market, driven by the United States' pioneering role in fuel cell innovation. Driving Factors Advancements in Hydrogen Production New technological advancements in hydrogen production, like alkaline and PEM electrolysers, SOECs, and biomass gasifiers, are essential to driving the fuel cell market. Innovations like NREL's STCH water-splitting technology promise more energy-efficient hydrogen production, essential for the widespread adoption of fuel cells. These advancements in producing green hydrogen, characterized by low cost and zero emissions, are crucial in facilitating the transition to fuel cell technologies across numerous sectors. Introduction of EV propels the fuel cell demand Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) offer advantages like rapid refueling and extended range compared to traditional EVs. Initiatives like MG Motor India's introduction of third-generation hydrogen fuel cell technology and Hyundai's production of fuel cell trucks exemplify this trend. The U.S. Department of Energy's efforts to make hydrogen-powered vehicles a viable option underscore the potential of FCEVs to transform the transportation sector. To understand how our report can bring a difference to your business strategy, Inquire about a brochure at https://marketresearch.biz/report/global-fuel-cell-market/#inquiry Restraining Factors High competition from well-known technologies These traditional technologies currently hold advantages in terms of cost, market familiarity, and established infrastructure. Overcoming these perceptions is a significant challenge for the fuel cell market. The fuel cell industry needs to demonstrate clear advantages over these established technologies in terms of efficiency, environmental impact, and long-term costs to gain a competitive edge and expand its market share. High Cost restricts the fuel cell market The pricing disparity is a major barrier to adoption, especially for cost-sensitive consumers. For example, fuel cell systems for telecommunications and industrial applications can range from $9,000 to over $20,000 for a 2.5 kW system and start at under $200,000 for a 120 kW system. The US Department of Energy has set ambitious targets to lower costs to less than $100/kW for annual production exceeding 150,000 units, aiming for a cost reduction of 6065%. Achieving this target is crucial for increasing the market penetration of fuel cells. Growth Opportunities Establishing well economies will drive the fuel market The fuel cell market has considerable growth potential in developing economies like India and Indonesia. These markets present unique opportunities for the adoption of fuel cells as they seek to establish sustainable and efficient energy solutions. Higher costs for fuel cell technology and a lack of local technical expertise hinder market growth. But now, with strategic investments and knowledge transfer, these barriers can be overcome, paving the way for the increased adoption of fuel cells in these rapidly developing markets. Have Queries? Speak to an expert or To Download/Request a Sample, Click here. Report Scope Report Attribute Details Market Value (2023) US$ 8.4 Billion Market Size (2033) US$ 42.6 Billion CAGR (from 2024 to 2033) 18.11% from 2024 to 2033 North America Region Revenue Share 35% Historic Period 2016 to 2023 Base Year 2023 Forecast Year 2024 to 2033 Regional Analysis North America commands a robust 35% share of the global fuel cell market, driven by the United States' pioneering role in fuel cell innovation. Notable players like Plug Power and Ballard Power Systems, coupled with government initiatives and clean energy subsidies, contribute to the region's dominance. Varied applications across transportation, stationary power, and portable power, especially the rising adoption of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), fuel the market's growth. In Europe, Germany and the UK lead the clean energy transition, supported by EU initiatives. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region, notably Japan and South Korea, witnesses rapid fuel cell market expansion, fueled by efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependence and enhance energy security. Segment Analysis By product type, proton exchange membrane fuel cells dominate the market segment due to their high power density, low operating temperature, and quick start-up capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of applications, particularly transportation and portable power. The development of hydrogen infrastructure and advancements in PEMFC technology have further solidified this segment's leading position. Molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC) are used in large-scale stationary power generation due to their ability to utilize various fuel types. Nevertheless, the fuel cell market is predominantly influenced by the versatility and escalating adoption of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) across various sectors, solidifying their dominance in the industry. By application, stationary applications, constituting 67.5% of the market, rule the market segment due to their capacity to deliver dependable, environmentally friendly, and efficient energy, particularly gaining traction in utilities and industrial power systems. The rising focus on sustainable energy solutions and the decreasing costs of fuel cell technology play pivotal roles in driving growth within this segment. Transportation and portable are also crucial application segments. Portable fuel cells are emerging in consumer electronics, providing longer-lasting power sources for devices like laptops and cameras. For more insights on the historical and Forecast market data from 2016 to 2033 - download a sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/global-fuel-cell-market/request-sample/ Segments covered in the report By Product Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell Others By Application Stationary Transportation Portable By Geography North America Europe Asia-Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Grow your profit margin with Marketresearch.biz - Purchase This Premium Report at https://marketresearch.biz/purchase-report/?report_id=43064 Competitive Landscape Analysis In the dynamic Fuel cell market, key players like Plug Power Inc. and FuelCell Energy drive innovation and commercialization with advanced technologies in power generation and storage. These companies prioritize renewable energy solutions, influencing market growth. Panasonic Corporation and Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation are notable for their impact on residential and commercial fuel cell applications. Their emphasis on integrating fuel cells into comprehensive energy systems aligns with the market's shift towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions. Key Players Ceres Power Holdings Hyster-Yale Group Doosan Fuel Cell Hydrogenics AFC Energy Cell Impact AB Hazer Group Limited HydroPhi Technologies Group, Inc. SunHydrogen, Inc. ITM Power PLC MagneGas Corporation McPhy Energy SA myFC Holding AB Nel ASA Nikola Corporation PowerCell Sweden AB PowerHouse Energy Group plc FuelCell Energy Intelligent Energy Ltd. Panasonic Corporation Plug Power, Inc. Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation Recent Developments In October 2023, TECO 2030 developed hydrogen fuel cells that allowed ships and other heavy-duty equipment to be completely emission-free. TECO 2030's top-of-the-line fuel cell is a technically advanced, clean energy generation system. TECO 2030 developed hydrogen fuel cells that allowed ships and other heavy-duty equipment to be completely emission-free. TECO 2030's top-of-the-line fuel cell is a technically advanced, clean energy generation system. In June 2023, Bloom Energy signed a deal to implement 2.5 megawatts (MW) of Bloom's Fuel Cell technology in England together with Perenco, the independent oil and natural gas company. Bloom Energy signed a deal to implement 2.5 megawatts (MW) of Bloom's Fuel Cell technology in England together with Perenco, the independent oil and natural gas company. In May 2023, Ballard Power Systems recently received an order for 3.6 milliwatts of fuel cell technology from a European firm that specializes in green energy solutions for stationary power requirements. Browse More Related Reports Hydrogen Fuel Market Growth Forecasted to expand from USD 6.0 Bn in 2022 to USD 54.5 Bn by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 25.4%. Hydrogen Stations Market Estimated to grow from USD 0.6 Bn in 2022 to USD 3.7 Bn by 2032, with a CAGR of 21.4%. Water as Fuel Market Advancement Revenue is projected to rise to USD 23.3 Bn by 2032 from USD 3.4 Bn in 2022, marking a CAGR of 21.8%. Hydrogen Energy Storage Market Development Expected to increase from USD 16.3 Bn in 2022 to USD 30.1 Bn by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.5%. Portable Power Solutions Market Progress Anticipated to reach USD 1,132.3 Mn by 2032 from USD 493.1 Mn in 2022, with a CAGR of 8.9%. About Us: MarketResearch.Biz (Powered by Prudour Pvt Ltd) specializes in in-depth market research and analysis and has been proving its mettle as a consulting and customized market research company, apart from being a much sought-after syndicated market research report-providing firm. MarketResearch.Biz provides customization to suit any specific or unique requirement and tailor-made reports as per request. We go beyond boundaries to take analytics, analysis, study, and outlook to newer heights and broader horizons. Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketresearch-biz/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketresearch.biz Follow Us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrudourResearch New York, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The aerogel market, valued at USD 2.50 billion in 2023, is poised for substantial growth, projected to reach USD 17.1 billion by 2033, with a robust 21.8% CAGR. The surge in demand from high-end-use sectors such as automobiles, construction, aerospace, and electronics drives this growth. Aerogel, a synthetic porous material with 99.8% air composition, finds diverse applications due to its low heat conductivity and density. In the automobile industry, it transforms vehicle design, enhancing efficacy and performance. With applications in thermal and acoustic insulation, aerogels contribute to the evolving landscape of electric vehicles. To get additional highlights on major revenue-generating segments, Request an Aerogel Market sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/aerogel-market/request-sample/ Toyota Motor leads US auto sales, with Detroit automakers reporting a 14.1% increase in new vehicle sales to over 2.6 million units in 2023. Aerogels play a vital role in various industries, providing thermal interface materials in electronics, eco-friendly solutions in healthcare, and applications in agriculture, soundproofing, and food packaging. The aerospace sector's increasing demand for aerogels across diverse industries foretells significant market expansion in the coming years. Key Takeaways Silica aerogel is the product type dominant segment due to its exceptional properties such as low thermal conductivity, high surface area, and low density, making it an ideal material for insulation and other applications. Oil and gas lead the application type market segment due to their widespread use as insulation materials in pipelines and refineries. Blanket aerogel holds a strong position in the form market segment due to its inherent properties of aerogels with flexibility and ease of use. Virgin processed aerogel dominates the processing type market segment as it can be directly synthesized and used without any post-processing or alterations. North America dominates the global aerogel market, claiming a 44.80% share. Driving Factors Rise in Aerospace and defense applications increases the demand Aerospace and defense industries is gaining popularity due to their lightweight nature and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Moreover, companies like Aerogel Core Ltd are leveraging aerogels' unique properties for soundproofing and heat shielding in aerospace and automotive applications. The versatility and durability of aerogels in these demanding environments underscore their growing importance and widespread adoption in the aerospace and defense sectors. New manufacturing innovations propels the aerogel market Aerogel manufacturing technologies are advancing like rapid supercritical extraction, have enhanced production efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, researchers at Linkoping University's development of a cellulose-based conducting aerogel opens new possibilities for its use in medical imaging, communication, space exploration, and security technologies. These manufacturing innovations not only reduce production costs but also broaden aerogels' application spectrum, contributing significantly to market growth. To understand how our report can bring a difference to your business strategy, Inquire about a brochure at https://marketresearch.biz/report/aerogel-market/#inquiry Restraining Factors High Production Costs Limit Aerogel Market The manufacturing process of aerogels is intricate, requiring specialized chemicals and techniques, leading to elevated expenses. For example, silica aerogel blankets are reported to be over ten times costlier than traditional insulation materials per square foot. Furthermore, aerogel production typically occurs on smaller scales than conventional insulation materials, resulting in higher per-unit costs. The estimated production cost of $7.2 per square meter for a 3 cm thick silica aerogel sheet exemplifies this financial barrier, thereby limiting aerogels' widespread adoption and market growth. Growth Opportunities Next-Generation Batteries with Aerogel Technology Drive the Market Growth Aerogels creates the next-generation batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and electronics is another area ripe for growth. Incorporating aerogels as separators in lithium-ion batteries can significantly improve safety, lifespan, and fast-charging capabilities. Companies like Amprius are leveraging aerogel technology in EV batteries, indicating the potential of this application. As the demand for more efficient and safer batteries increases, especially in the burgeoning EV market, aerogels are likely to play a crucial role, thus contributing to the market's expansion. Have Queries? Speak to an expert or To Download/Request a Sample, Click here. Report Attribute Details Market Value (2023) USD 2.50 Billion Market Size (2033) USD 17.1 Billion CAGR (from 2024 to 2033) 21.8% from 2024 to 2033 North America Region Revenue Share 44.80% Historic Period 2016 to 2023 Base Year 2023 Forecast Year 2024 to 2033 Regional Analysis North America dominates the global aerogel market, claiming a 44.80% share, propelled by key players like Aspen Aerogels and a technologically advanced landscape. The region's emphasis on energy-efficient materials and sustainable practices contributes to its leadership. In the U.S., NASA's use of aerogel in space missions exemplifies its unique properties, fostering growth in thermal insulation, oil and gas, and automotive applications. Europe focuses on innovation and environmental regulations, with Germany and the UK leading in aerogel technology. Asia-Pacific, especially China and India, shows potential with a growing industrial sector, offering opportunities for aerogel adoption in construction and industry, driven by sustainable development goals. Segment Analysis By product type, silica aerogel is the dominant segment due to its exceptional properties such as low thermal conductivity, high surface area, and low density, making it an ideal material for insulation and other applications. Its translucency also makes it suitable for daylighting applications. Polymer aerogels are used in lightweight structures and supercapacitors, whereas Carbon aerogels are notable for their electrical conductivity and are used in sensors and energy storage devices. However, the broad applicability and established market presence of Silica aerogel underline its dominant position. By application industry, oil and gas lead the market segment due to their widespread use as insulation materials in pipelines and refineries. The lightweight nature of aerogels also makes them advantageous for offshore applications. In Marine & Aerospace, aerogels are used for thermal and acoustic insulation. In construction, aerogel-based translucent panels are used for daylighting solutions. However, the critical role of aerogels in improving energy efficiency in the Oil & Gas sector makes it the most significant application industry. By form, blanket aerogel holds a strong position in the market segment due to its inherent properties of aerogels with flexibility and ease of use, making them highly suitable for a variety of insulation applications. It can be easily cut and installed in complex geometries, which is particularly beneficial in the construction and oil & gas industries. Monolith aerogels are used in specialized applications like aerospace, whereas panel-form aerogels are used in building applications. By processing type, virgin processed aerogel dominates the market segment as it can be directly synthesized and used without any post-processing or alterations. The demand for high-performance, unaltered aerogel materials in various industries, particularly in insulation and aerospace, secures the dominance of Virgin Processed Aerogels in the market. For more insights on the historical and Forecast market data from 2016 to 2033 - download a sample report at https://marketresearch.biz/report/aerogel-market/request-sample/ Segment covered in this report Product Type Analysis Silica Polymer Carbon Application Industry Analysis Oil Gas Marine Aerospace Performance Coating LVHS Day-Lighting Automotive Construction Form Analysis Monolith Aerogel Blanket Aerogel Article Aerogel Panel Form Aerogel Processing Analysis Virgin Processed Aerogel Fabricated Aerogel Grow your profit margin with Marketresearch.biz - Purchase This Premium Report at https://marketresearch.biz/purchase-report/?report_id=284 Competitive Landscape Analysis In the dynamic Aerogel Market, innovation and application diversity are driven by key players such as Aspen Aerogels and Cabot Corporation, renowned for their extensive range of aerogel products, notably in insulation applications. Their strategic focus centers on harnessing aerogel's distinctive properties, including low thermal conductivity and high surface area, across diverse industries like construction and aerospace. Global chemical company BASF from Germany plays a significant role, integrating aerogel technology into its portfolio, highlighting a commitment to high-performance materials innovation and the broader application of aerogel in industrial contexts. Key Players Nano Tech Co. Ltd. (China) Cabot Corporation (US) JIOS Aerogel (South Korea) Aspen Aerogels (US) Enersens (France) Active Aerogels (Portugal) Armacell (Germany) Guangdong Alison Hi-Tech (China) BASF (Germany) Aerogel Technologies (US) Recent Developments In April 2023 , Aspen Aerogels created a new aerogel named Firegel(tm). It's fire-resistant compared to the older versions. Firegel(tm) is perfect for use in crucial sectors like defense and aerospace where fire resistance is essential. , Aspen Aerogels created a new aerogel named Firegel(tm). It's fire-resistant compared to the older versions. Firegel(tm) is perfect for use in crucial sectors like defense and aerospace where fire resistance is essential. In February 2023 , Svenska Aerogel signed a collaboration agreement with an internationally renowned manufacturer in the industry of process to improve the utilization of Quartzene in the product of the customer. Svenska Aerogel committed to supplying 30 tonnes of Quartzite each year throughout the phase of the pilot phase. , Svenska Aerogel signed a collaboration agreement with an internationally renowned manufacturer in the industry of process to improve the utilization of Quartzene in the product of the customer. Svenska Aerogel committed to supplying 30 tonnes of Quartzite each year throughout the phase of the pilot phase. In January 2022, Cabot Corporation reported that their aerogel with high-insulating properties was utilized in the renovation of the Mathildenhohe the artist's colony located in Darmstadt, Germany, which was recently added as a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list Browse More Related Reports Fluoropolymers Market size is expected to be worth around USD 14.3 Bn by 2032 from USD 8.2 Bn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. Polymerase Chain Reaction Market size is expected to be worth around USD 12.7 Bn by 2032 from USD 7.3 Bn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. Super Absorbent Polymer Market size is expected to be worth around USD 16.3 Bn by 2032 from USD 8.2 Bn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032. 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Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketresearch-biz/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketresearch.biz Follow Us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PrudourResearch Preliminary 2023 results exceed the latest guidance and represent the best-ever financial result in the Companys history driven by extraordinary growth in travel health and a surge in smallpox/mpox vaccine sales. 2024 revenue of DKK 5,000-5,300 million and EBITDA of DKK 1,100-1,350 million expected. Focused R&D efforts to drive sustainable value creation within infectious diseases; discontinuing immuno-oncology projects. The Company will host three capital markets days during February. COPENHAGEN, Denmark, February 21, 2024 Bavarian Nordic A/S (OMX: BAVA) today reports preliminary, unaudited financial results for 2023 and financial guidance for 2024. Furthermore, the Company provides an update on its R&D priorities. The preliminary revenue in 2023 was DKK 7,062 million compared to DKK 3,151 million in 2022, thus exceeding the annual guidance of DKK 6,900 million. The improved revenue was driven by the Public Preparedness segment due to a surge in sales of smallpox/mpox vaccines following the unfortunate outbreak in 2022, as well as continued strong growth in the Travel Health business, further supported by the addition of new products through the latest acquisition in May 2023. The preliminary revenue comprised of DKK 5,027 million from Public Preparedness and DKK 1,877 million from Travel Health. Other revenue reached DKK 158 million. The preliminary operating result (EBITDA) was a profit of DKK 2,615 million compared to DKK 328 million in 2022, thus exceeding the latest guidance of DKK 2,300 million. This historical result is an endorsement of the successful execution of the commercial strategy we initiated back in 2020 and the transition to one of the largest pure play vaccine companies in the world. It is all the more pleasing to see that all parts of the company have contributed to this result, due to our brand performance, resurgence in travel, and expanding our partnerships in public preparedness. While the surge in demand for our smallpox/mpox vaccine is decreasing, in part due to the role our vaccine has played in reducing the mpox cases, the public preparedness base business has grown in the number of customers and the emerging private mpox business. This, together with strong growth in travel health, means Bavarian Nordic is now a DKK 5 billion annual revenue company and growing, with profit margins that can compete with pharma companies. The increased manufacturing capacity and broader customer base also mean that we will be able to respond to future surges in demand, following increased cases of mpox, or extraordinary governmental orders, that will allow us to exceed the growing base business from time to time. I would like to thank all the dedicated and highly skilled employees for delivering an outstanding annual result that has saved millions of lives through access to our life-saving vaccines during 2023, said Paul Chaplin, President and CEO of Bavarian Nordic. The consolidated, audited financial results for 2023 will become available on March 6, 2024, in connection with the publication of the Companys annual report for 2023. DKK million Numbers are approximate FY 2023 guidance original, 15-Feb-2023 FY 2023 guidance latest, 03-Aug-2023 FY 2023 actuals preliminary, unaudited Revenue 6,000 6,900 7,062 EBITDA 2,200 2,300 2,615 2024 financial guidance For 2024, Bavarian Nordic expects revenue of DKK 5,000-5,300 million and EBITDA of DKK 1,100-1,350 million. The expected revenue is comprised of DKK 2,7003,000 million from Public Preparedness vaccines, of which DKK 1,600 million have already been secured by contracts, approximately DKK 2,100 million from Travel Health vaccines and approximately DKK 200 million from contract work. Travel Health anticipates a 12% growth, driven by a mix of continued market growth and market share gains. Research and development costs of approximately DKK 850 million are expected, of which the chikungunya program represents nearly half. Similarly, the chikungunya program will impact manufacturing costs negatively by approximately DKK 240 million due to the manufacturing of batches as part of the preparations for commercial launch in 2025. Pending approval of the vaccine, it is expected that these costs will be reversed and capitalized in 2025. Adjusting the implicit 2024 EBITDA margin for this effect would give an EBITDA margin range of 27-30%. Net working capital is expected to increase by approximately DKK 900 million due to final inventory build-up before the completion of tech transfer of rabies and TBE manufacturing. Other tangible investments of approximately DKK 300 million are expected. Cash outflow in 2024 further includes milestone payments of DKK 1,800 million to GSK and Emergent BioSolutions. The outlook is based on the following assumptions on currency exchange rates of DKK 6.90 per 1 USD and DKK 7.45 per 1 EUR. Focused R&D priorities to drive sustainable value creation Bavarian Nordics only active immuno-oncology project, TAEK-VAC, has reached a stage where clinical expansion and further investments would be required. The Company has decided to focus its future R&D efforts on infectious diseases through product improvements to remain competitive and new vaccine development. As a consequence, the TAEK-VAC project will not be continued, and the Company has no further plans to invest in immuno-oncology vaccine development. Capital markets days in February As previously announced, Bavarian Nordic will hold three capital markets days for investors and analysts, by invitation only, on the following dates and locations: February 26 in Copenhagen, February 27 in London, and February 28 in New York City. At these half-day events, the management of Bavarian Nordic will provide an update on the Company's strategy, as well as a deep dive into its two business areas: Travel Health and Public Preparedness, and the opportunities ahead. For more information, visit www.bavarian-nordic.com/cmd . About Bavarian Nordic Bavarian Nordic is a fully integrated vaccine company with a mission to protect and save lives through innovative vaccines. We are a global leader in smallpox and mpox vaccines, supplied to governments to enhance public health preparedness and have a strong portfolio of vaccines for travelers and endemic diseases. For more information visit www.bavarian-nordic.com . Forward-looking statements This announcement includes forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, future events, performance and/or other information that is not historical information. All such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances after the date made, except as required by law. Contacts Europe: Rolf Sass Srensen, Vice President Investor Relations, Tel: +45 61 77 47 43 US: Graham Morrell, Paddock Circle Advisors, graham@paddockcircle.com , Tel: +1 781 686 9600 Company Announcement no. 01 / 2024 Attachment CARGOTEC CORPORATION, PRESS RELEASE, 21 FEBRUARY 2024 AT 10 (EET) Kalmar, part of Cargotec, has concluded an agreement to supply Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam with two fully electric and eight hybrid straddle carriers for its ECT Delta terminal. The significant order was booked in Cargotec's 2024 Q1 order intake, with delivery expected to be completed during Q4 2024. Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam (ECT) operates two container terminals both located on the North Sea coast of Rotterdam and capable of handling the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels without any restrictions. The ECT Delta uses its fleet of straddle carriers for loading and unloading trucks on the land side. The terminal already operates a number of Kalmar straddle carriers. The new straddle carriers are part of a fleet renewal programme that will support the goal of ECT to achieve emission-free operations at its ECT Delta and ECT Euromax terminals by 2035. ECT will be piloting two different battery technologies in the electric straddle carriers. The order also includes Kalmar Insight coverage for all the machines a performance management tool that turns data into actionable, impactful insights. For electrically powered machines, the Kalmar Insight Energy Module provides visibility over the battery charge status, energy utilisation and key performance indicators related to charging. Karri Keskinen, Head of Global Sales, Horizontal Transportation, Kalmar: We are delighted to continue our collaboration with ECT and support their transition to more sustainable operations with our eco-efficient straddle carrier technology. Our flexible battery technology offering allows customers to select the option that best fits their operational needs instead of settling for a one-size-fits-all solution when electrifying their equipment fleets. This third order for our fully electric straddle carrier demonstrates the strong market confidence in our eco-efficient solution. Further information for the press: Karri Keskinen, Head of Global Sales, Horizontal Transportation, Kalmar, tel. +358407002198, karri.keskinen@kalmarglobal.com Maija Eklof, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Kalmar, tel. +358 20 777 4096, maija.eklof@kalmarglobal.com Kalmar is the global leader in sustainable cargo handling for ports, terminals, distribution centres and heavy industry. With our extensive electric portfolio and global service network, we help our customers move towards safer, more eco-efficient and productive operations. Together, we develop innovative solutions that shape the future of our industry, improving our customers every move. www.kalmarglobal.com Kalmar is part of Cargotec. Cargotec's (Nasdaq Helsinki: CGCBV) sales in 2023 totalled approximately EUR 4.6 billion and it employs around 11,400 people. www.cargotec.com Attachments Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc. - The global heart pumps market was projected to attain US$ 2.7 billion in 2022. It is anticipated to garner an 18.3% CAGR from 2023 to 2031 and by 2032, the market is likely to attain US$ 12.3 billion by 2031. Heart pumps are mechanical medical devices intended to supplement or replace a failing heart's functions. Patients with failing hearts who are unable to pump enough blood to fulfill their bodies' demands are the main ones who utilize them. These devices assist patients live a better overall quality of life by promoting better circulation and reducing heart failure symptoms. Heart pumps can be worn externally or installed inside. They are intended for use as a stopgap while the heart heals, or for people who are not candidates for transplants. Download sample PDF copy of report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=45147 Latest market research on heart pumps shows a tendency toward the creation of more compact, robust devices with longer battery lives and the capacity to remotely monitor users in real time. Integration of innovations, such as using flow pumps to lower the chance of complications, is becoming more popular. Benefits include a reduction in symptoms like exhaustion and shortness of breath, a longer life expectancy, and a real end-stage heart failure therapy option are driving the heart pump market. Key Findings of the Market Report Increased environmental pollution, a growing number of people adopting sedentary lifestyles, an increase in the number of elderly people worldwide, and genetic predispositions are all important factors contributing to the increased prevalence of cardiovascular illnesses. Stress at work and bad lifestyle choices like drinking and smoking raise the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, all of which are important initiators of heart-related disorders. Compared to the previous ten years, improvements in healthcare and diagnostic technology have led to a better detection of cardiovascular diseases. Market Trends for Heart Pumps There are a number of reasons for the increase in public awareness of the value of cardiac care, including the focused and coordinated efforts of advocacy groups, healthcare organizations, and governments. To encourage healthy lifestyles and enhance patient care, the governments of many nations frequently launch public awareness campaigns, provide financial incentives, and provide substantial money for research in these areas. These initiatives raise public and healthcare professional knowledge of the effectiveness of heart pumps and their advantages for patients' general health. Request for Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=45147 Global Market for Heart Pumps: Regional Outlook In 2022, North America had the most share of the industry. The regional heart pump industry statistics are enhanced by the presence of a well-developed healthcare sector, a growth in awareness of innovative cardiovascular care technology, and an increase in research and development expenses. According to the CDC Foundation, cardiovascular health problems account for an estimated one in six American healthcare spending dollars. It is estimated that the yearly cost of heart-related disorders in the United States would approach US$ 818.0 billion by 2030. As per the most recent heart pumps market prediction, Asia Pacific's business is expected to rise steadily between 2023 and 2031. The region's market dynamics are being driven by a rise in heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular disorders. Global Heart Pumps Market: Key Players The top manufacturers of heart pumps are heavily investing in the creation of implantable and artificial heart pumps in order to provide patients with the best possible cardiac care and enhance their quality of life. The top companies in the heart pump market frequently work together on research projects as a means of diversifying their product offerings. The following companies are well-known participants in the global heart pumps market: SynCardia Systems LLC Berlin Heart GmbH Jarvik Heart Inc. Calon Cardio-Technology Ltd. Teleflex Incorporated Abbott Laboratories Medtronic plc Key developments by the players in this market are: Israel-based Magenta Medical, a manufacturer of medical devices, declared in June 2023 that it was conducting an early-stage feasibility study to create and deploy the smallest heart pump ever. The Australian Government awarded a grant of AUD$750,000 to the medical device business BiVACOR in October 2022. With the help of this finance, the business hopes to decrease the dimensions and weight of the external controller for its Total Artificial Heart (TAH), which will enhance the patient experience. Global Heart Pumps Market Segmentation Product Intra-aortic Balloon Pumps Ventricular Assist Devices Left Ventricle Assist Devices (LVAD) Right Ventricle Assist Devices (RVAD) Biventricular Assist Devices (BVAD) Others Total Artificial Heart Flow Regime Centrifugal Flow Pump (CFP) Axial Flow Pump (AFP) Mixed Flow Pump (MFP) Therapy Bridge-to-Candidacy (BTC) Bridge-to-Transplant (BTT) Location Implantable Heart Pump Devices Extracorporeal Heart Pump Devices End User Hospitals Ambulatory Surgical Centers Specialty Clinics Others Region North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa Buy this Premium Research Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=451471gpt AuEq grade shell approximately 370 m along strike from the current Guadalupe East MRE pit crest (measured from pit to the intercept in 23GE-146), with mineralization open in several directions. In 2024, drilling at Guadalupe is planned to expand the known high-grade areas. Guadalupe East High Grade Gold and Silver 13.51 gpt AuEq (10.10 gpt Au and 263.8 gpt Ag) over 2.2 m etw in hole 23GE-142 at Guadalupe East, including: 23.46 gpt AuEq (17.80 gpt Au and 437.0 gpt Ag) over 1.2 m etw; and, 44.39 gpt AuEq (18.20 gpt Au and 2,024.0 gpt Ag) over 1.0 m etw 15.06 gpt AuEq (5.46 gpt Au and 742.0 gpt Ag) over 0.8 m etw in hole 23GE-136. 17.95 gpt AuEq (9.69 gpt Au and 638.55 gpt Ag) over 31.25 m etw in hole 23GE-147, including; 52.67 gpt AuEq (29.41 gpt Au and 1,797.3 gpt Ag) over 6.45 m etw, and including, 80.57 gpt AuEq (45.34 gpt Au and 2,722.6 gpt Ag) over 3.90 m etw. 27.56 gpt AuEq (8.17 gpt Au and 1,498.0 gpt Ag) over 0.6 m etw in new hole 23GE-144* Orito Sur, a generative target north of Guadalupe East, returned strong gold and silver grades: 5.3 gpt AuEq (2.70 gpt Au and 200.5 gpt Ag) over 2.4 m etw in new hole 23OS-01* Mina, a generative target northeast of Guadalupe East, also returned strong grades: 4.24 gpt AuEq (2.54 gpt Au and 131.3 gpt Ag) over 4.9 m downhole in new hole 23MINA-13* Central Trend Expansion Drilling and Interpretation Filling the Gap with High Grade Near-Surface Material 2023 drilling at Noche Buena, located in the southeastern-most end of the Central Trend demonstrated mineralization up to 150 m along strike from the bottom of the MRE pit. Drilling confirms the ongoing expansion of potential gold-silver resources in addition to and not included in the Companys MRE. Additionally, Prime intersected a substantial volume of high-grade mineralization in the previously untested gap between the Noche Buena and San Miguel East MRE pits. In 2024 target, Prime drilling at Central is intended to increase the Central Area resource through additions at Noche Buena and its connection to San Miguel East. Central High Grade, Near-Surface Material at Noche Buena 4.99 gpt AuEq (4.11 gpt Au and 67.9 gpt Ag) over 9.1 m etw in hole 23NB-46, located 150 m along strike from the bottom of the MRE pit, including: 37.48 gpt AuEq (31.40 gpt Au and 470.0 gpt Ag) over 1.1 m etw. 1.50 gpt AuEq (1.23 gpt Au and 20.5 gpt Ag) over 14.0 m etw in hole 23NB-39, located immediately adjacent to the MRE pit, including: 5.17 gpt AuEq (4.19 gpt Au and 76.0 gpt Ag) over 2.0 m etw. 2.43 gpt AuEq (0.91 gpt Au and 117.3 gpt Ag) over 6.5 m etw in new hole 23NB-59* Noche Buena and San Miguel East Drilling to Fill the Gap Returns Strong Silver Values 4.49 gpt AuEq (1.48 gpt Au and 232.6 gpt Ag) over 5.0 m etw in hole 23NB-51, including: 8.00 gpt AuEq (2.70 gpt Au and 409.4 gpt Ag) over 2.6 m etw and; 3.51 gpt AuEq (3.36 gpt Au and 11.9 gpt Ag) over 1.2 m etw. 3.81 gpt AuEq (1.62 gpt Au and 169.2 gpt Ag) over 2.6 m etw in hole 23NB-53, including: 8.21 gpt AuEq (2.77 gpt Au and 420.0 gpt Ag) over 1.0 m etw; 1.33 gpt AuEq (0.55 gpt Au and 60.1 gpt Ag) over 4.4 m etw in hole 23SME-37, including: 2.65 gpt AuEq (2.03 gpt Au and 48.2 gpt Ag) over 0.7 m etw; 2.23 gpt AuEq (0.99 gpt Au and 95.9 gpt Ag) over 1.4 m etw in hole 23SME-34, located on the north-east side of San Miguel East. Las Primas Generative Drilling and Interpretation Prime Discovery Similar to Guadalupe East 500m to the Northeast Las Primas, located between the Central and Guadalupe Trends, was first identified through historical records and the Companys earlier sampling and mapping work. Newly discovered Las Primas mineralization lies entirely outside of the MRE and contains high-grades and significant thicknesses. The precious metals mineralization is in high-grade plunging shoots containing multiple gram per tonne AuEq centers with outer, lower-grade halos. In 2023, mapping and drilling at Las Primas confirmed the continuity of at least two mineralized structural corridors that remain open in all directions. Drilling at Las Primas intercepted several new high grade mineralized structures that appear to have many similarities to Guadalupe East in particular, which is located 500 m to the northeast. Early mineralization modeling suggests a vertical extent of over 300 m and 450 m along strike. In 2024, Las Primas is targeted as part of the generative drilling program. Las Primas Area Prime Discovery: 15.63 gpt AuEq (11.60 gpt Au and 311.1 gpt Ag) over 4.5 m etw in hole 23LP-18, including: 27.52 gpt AuEq (20.39 gpt Au and 550.8 gpt Ag) over 2.5 m etw, and including, 56.28 gpt AuEq (41.90 gpt Au and 1,111.0 gpt Ag) over 1.1 m etw; 12.34 gpt AuEq (10.85 gpt Au and 114.9 gpt Ag) over 2.5 m etw in hole 23LP-14 at Las Primas, including: 17.50 gpt AuEq (15.40 gpt Au and 162.2 gpt Ag) over 1.7 m etw. 1.73 gpt AuEq (1.70 gpt Au and 2.3 gpt Ag) over 9.6 m etw in hole 23LP-06, including: 4.94 gpt AuEq (4.88 gpt Au and 4.7 gpt Ag) over 3.0 m etw. 1.20 gpt AuEq (0.87 gpt Au and 25.8 gpt Ag) over 14.6 m etw in hole 23LP-07, starting just below surface. Fresnillo Generative Drilling and Interpretation Highly Prospective Prime Original Discovery Fresnillo, located between the Z-T and Central Trends, was first drilled as part of Primes 2022 drill program. Fresnillo is a highly prospective earlier stage target with 2023 drilling intercepting thick mineralized structures. In 2024, follow-up drilling is planned with surface mapping and modelling ongoing. Fresnillo Prime Original Discovery 1.67 gpt AuEq (1.44 gpt Au and 17.6 gpt Ag) over 15.8 m etw in hole 22FRE-09, including: 5.36 gpt AuEq (4.73 gpt Au and 48.4 gpt Ag) over 2.9 m etw. 1.65 gpt AuEq (1.06 gpt Au and 45.2 gpt Ag) over 10.9 m etw in hole 23FRE-19, including: 12.30 gpt AuEq (6.63 gpt Au and 438.0 gpt Ag) over 0.85 m etw. 2024 Outlook Prime is targeting 40,000 metres in its 2024 drill program and will continue to evaluate drilling plans using its success-based approach. This evaluation will also include prioritization of targets based on probability of resource development and generative area discovery potential. Six drill rigs are active on site at Los Reyes, with 2024 exploration focused on: Extending the high-grade Z-T Area shoots that remain open at depth, as well as along strike, both north and south. shoots that remain open at depth, as well as along strike, both north and south. Expanding the known high-grade mineralization at Guadalupe East . . Increasing the Central Area resource through additions at Noche Buena and its connection to San Miguel East. through additions at Noche Buena and its connection to San Miguel East. Generative target drilling of high-grade intercepts at Las Primas, Mariposa, Fresnillo, Mina and others to further develop the resource potential at Los Reyes. Link 1 PDF Figures Link 2 PDF Drill Hole Tables Note 1: Gold equivalent grades are calculated based on an assumed gold price of US$1,700 per ounce and silver price of $22 per ounce, based on the formula AuEq grade (gpt) = Au grade + Ag grade x ($22 / $1,700). Metallurgical recoveries are not considered in the in-situ grade estimate but are estimated to be 93% and 83% for gold and silver, respectively, when processed in a mill, and 72% and 25% respectively when heap-leached. About the Los Reyes Gold and Silver Project Los Reyes is a rapidly evolving high-grade, low sulphidation epithermal gold-silver project located in Sinaloa State, Mexico. Since acquiring Los Reyes in 2019, Prime has spent approximately CAD$48 million on direct exploration activities and has completed over 168,000 metres of drilling. On May 2, 2023, Prime announced an updated multi-million-ounce high-grade open pit constrained resource (see the May 2, 2023 press release for more details). May 2, 2023 Resource Statement Drilling is ongoing and suggests that the three known main deposit areas (Guadalupe, Central and Z-T) are larger than previously reported. Potential also exists for new discoveries where mineralized trends have been identified outside of the currently defined resource areas. Historic operating results indicate that an estimated 1 million ounces of gold and 60 million ounces of silver were recovered from five separate operations at Los Reyes between 1770 and 1990. Prior to Primes acquisition, recent operators of Los Reyes had spent approximately US$20 million on exploration, engineering, and prefeasibility studies. About Prime Mining Prime is managed by an ideal mix of successful mining executives, strong capital markets personnel and experienced local operators all focused on unlocking the full potential of the Los Reyes Project. The Company has a well-planned capital structure with a strong management team and insider ownership. Prime is targeting a material resource expansion at Los Reyes through a combination of new generative area discoveries and growth, while also building on technical de-risking activities to support eventual project development. Qualified Person Scott Smith, P.Geo., Executive Vice President of Exploration, is a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content in this news release. QA/QC Protocols and Sampling Procedures Drill core at the Los Reyes project is drilled in predominately HQ size (63.5 millimetre mm), reducing to NQ (47.6 mm) when required. Drill core samples are generally 1.50 m long along the core axis with allowance for shorter or longer intervals if required to suit geological constraints. After logging intervals are identified to be sampled, the core is cut and one half is submitted for assay. RC drilling returns rock chips and fines from a 133.35 mm diameter tricone bit. The returns are homogenized and split into 2 halves, with one half submitted for analysis and the other half stored. Sample QA/QC measures include unmarked certified reference materials, blanks, and field duplicates as well as preparation duplicates are inserted into the sample sequence and make up approximately 8% of the samples submitted to the laboratory for each drill hole. Samples are picked up from the Project by the laboratory personnel and transported to their facilities in Durango or Hermosillo Mexico, for sample preparation. Sample analysis is carried out by Bureau Veritas and ALS Labs, with fire assay, including over limits fire assay re-analysis, completed at their respective Hermosillo, Mexico laboratories and multi-element analysis completed in North Vancouver, Canada. Drill core sample preparation includes fine crushing of the sample to at least 70% passing less than 2 mm, sample splitting using a riffle splitter, and pulverizing a 250-gram split to at least 85% passing 75 microns. Gold in diamond drill core is analyzed by fire assay and atomic absorption spectroscopy of a 30 g sample (code FA430 or Au-AA23). Multi-element chemistry is analyzed by 4-Acid digestion of a 0.25-gram sample split (code MA300 or ME-ICP61) with detection by inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometer for a full suite of elements. Gold assay techniques FA430 and Au-AA23 have an upper detection limit of 10 ppm. Any sample that produces an over-limit gold value via the initial assay technique is sent for gravimetric finish via method FA-530 or Au-GRA21. Silver analyses by MA300 and ME-ICP61 have an upper limit of 200 ppm and 100 ppm, respectively. Samples with over-limit silver values are re-analyzed by fire assay with gravimetric finish FA530 or Au-GRA21. Both Bureau Veritas and ALS Labs are ISO/IEC accredited assay laboratories. Additional Notes Metres is represented by m; etw is Estimated True Width and is based on drill hole geometry or comparisons with other on-section drill holes; Au refers to gold, and Ag refers to silver; gpt is grams per metric tonne; some figures may not sum due to rounding; Composite assay grades presented in summary tables are calculated using a Au grade minimum average of 0.20 gpt or 1.0 gpt as indicated in Au Cut-off column of Summary Tables. Maximum internal waste included in any reported composite interval is 3.00 m. The 1.00 gpt Au cut-off is used to define higher-grade cores within the lower-grade halo. For further information, please visit https://primeminingcorp.ca/ or direct enquiries to: Scott Hicks CEO & Director Indi Gopinathan VP Capital Markets & Business Development Prime Mining Corp. 710 1030 West Georgia St. Vancouver, BC V6E 2Y3 Canada +1(604) 238-1684 info@primeminingcorp.ca Cautionary Notes to U.S. Investors Concerning Resource Estimates This news release has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of the U.S. securities laws. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the terms mineral reserve, proven mineral reserve, probable mineral reserve, inferred mineral resources, indicated mineral resources, measured mineral resources and mineral resources used or referenced in this presentation are Canadian mineral disclosure terms as defined in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) under the guidelines set out in the 2014 Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines, May 2014 (the CIM Standards). The CIM Standards differ from the mineral property disclosure requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) in Regulation S-K Subpart 1300 (the SEC Modernization Rules) under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act). As a foreign private issuer that is eligible to file reports with the SEC pursuant to the multijurisdictional disclosure system, the Company is not required to provide disclosure on its mineral properties under the SEC Modernization Rules and will continue to provide disclosure under NI 43-101 and the CIM Standards. Accordingly, the Companys disclosure of mineralization and other technical information may differ significantly from the information that would be disclosed had the Company prepared the information under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules. Forward Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation as may be amended from time to time, including, without limitation, statements regarding the perceived merit of the Companys properties, including additional exploration potential of Los Reyes, potential quantity and/or grade of minerals, the potential size of the mineralized zone, metallurgical recoveries, and the Companys exploration and development plans in Mexico. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts which address events, results, outcomes, or developments that the Company expects to occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Companys management on the date the statements are made, and they involve several risks and uncertainties. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements were made, including without limitation, assumptions regarding the price of gold, silver and copper; the accuracy of mineral resource estimations; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; that all required approvals will be obtained, including concession renewals and permitting; that political and legal developments will be consistent with current expectations; that currency and exchange rates will be consistent with current levels; and that there will be no significant disruptions affecting the Company or its properties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These risks include, but are not limited to: risks related to uncertainties inherent in the preparation of mineral resource estimates, including but not limited to changes to the cost assumptions, variations in quantity of mineralized material, grade or recovery rates, changes to geotechnical or hydrogeological considerations, failure of plant, equipment or processes, changes to availability of power or the power rates, ability to maintain social license, changes to interest or tax rates, changes in project parameters, delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of local communities, environmental risks, title risks, including concession renewal, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, risks relating to COVID-19, delays in or failure to receive access agreements or amended permits, risks inherent in the estimation of mineral resources; and risks associated with executing the Companys objectives and strategies, including costs and expenses, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion and analysis, as well as its annual information form dated August 21, 2023, available on www.sedarplus.ca. Except as required by the securities disclosure laws and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if managements beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c04fb862-8712-4a16-adef-25c24e805c27 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4f0f6d7-42ea-440f-9477-85eda4783985 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/85a5d61e-f176-4f7a-b35f-7b85f29ecb16 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/87f14ed1-7a3f-4fdd-a6de-a3f6734b0253 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c0b0f21a-9c18-4879-a943-ce4feb14accf https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5de12151-293f-4d1e-b9a5-3f3dc2d2cf66 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a733d00b-9b58-4297-a63c-246d1da2a1fb PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pivotal, a market leader in light electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, today announced it has delivered four of eight BlackFlys and two flight simulators for lease to MTSI for evaluation by AFWERX and the United States Air Force. The Air Force is evaluating Pivotal aircraft performance by assessing a host of benefits across diverse applications for the companys proven tilt-eVTOL architecture, and testing a range of remotely piloted missions. Selected by AFWERX and Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) to participate in the Agility Prime initiative, Pivotal is providing the Air Force with pilot training and support services in addition to the aircraft and flight simulators. The program will operate out of New Braunfels National Airport, Texas, and from the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence at Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport, Ohio. AFWERXs and MTSIs decision to partner with Pivotal is a strong endorsement of our platforms maturity and a milestone on our journey to mission relevance, said Ken Karklin, CEO, Pivotal. "With over 12 years at the forefront of light eVTOL aircraft development, it is an honor to join forces with AFWERX and MTSI to demonstrate the utility and versatility of Pivotals patented eVTOL architecture." Over the next eight months, we will fly eight BlackFly eVTOL aircraft in different environments to test their mission effectiveness and suitability in military uses, said Vance Drenkhahn, Executive Vice President, DSD, MTSI. Pivotals amazing light eVTOL platform offers an opportunity to support AFWERX and solve real-world challenges. AFWERX continues to look for ways to accelerate our understanding of eVTOL operations, maintenance, logistics and potential use cases," said Lt Col John Tekell, AFWERX Agility Prime branch chief. "1-2 person eVTOLs have potential for several missions including special operations, surveillance, and disaster and emergency response with local command and control at a much lower price point than traditional helicopters. About Pivotals BlackFly eVTOL The BlackFly is a fixed-wing aircraft built on Pivotals third-generation eVTOL platform. The entire aircraft tilts for vertical takeoff and landing, rather than wing assemblies or rotors rotating to reorient thrust, reducing weight, complexity, and eliminating multiple points of failure. At the heart of this vehicle lies a robust fault-tolerant design, bolstered by triple modular systems for safety and reliability. Capable of manned, unmanned, and optionally manned missions, the light eVTOL aircraft can take off and land on pavement, dirt, or grass theres no landing gear, simply a fuselage wear strip. The BlackFly complies with FAA Part 103 (Ultralight) category in the United States for flight in Class G airspace. About Pivotal Pivotal (FKA Opener.Aero) designs, develops, and manufactures light eVTOL aircraft. As an industry pioneer, Pivotal is renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to be commercially available and delivered to a buyer in the United States. The companys distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been under continuous improvement for well over a decade, and today, Pivotal has the most mature technology in the light eVTOL category. Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. The company is headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. For videos and more information, visit https://pivotal.aero . About Agility Prime Agility Prime is the Air Forces transformative vertical lift program that is partnering with the electric vertical takeoff and land (eVTOL) commercial industry to propel the third revolution in aerospace and start to field a new class of air mobility systems. About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com . About AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 370 military, civilian and contractor personnel at five hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 6,028 new contracts worth more than $4 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: www.afwerx.com . Company Press Contact: Heidi Groshelle press@pivotal.aero (Mandatory disclaimer) The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/799f4cfc-9bb7-4ff8-a0ae-3fa6ff05c86f First two holes from K92s maiden drill program at the Arakompa project (Arakompa), located ~4.5 km from the Kainantu process plant, recorded significant mineralization, with 4 high grade lodes intersected in hole KARDD0002 recording 7.20 m at 24.76 g/t AuEq, 5.70 m at 9.94 g/t AuEq, 5.30 m at 6.06 g/t AuEq and 3.60 m at 3.38 g/t AuEq (See Fig 1), and similar mineralization to the producing high grade Kora and Judd vein systems (See Fig 5-6). Significant chalcopyrite, and also bornite observed in the 5.7 m at 9.94 g/t AuEq intersection, with the copper component grading 1.71%. The target size of Arakompa is very large, with mineralization demonstrated from drill holes, rock samples and surface workings for at least 1.7 km of strike, hosted within an approximately 150-225 m wide mineralized intense phyllic altered package, and exhibits a vertical extent of +500 m (see Fig 2-3). Between the high grade lodes, the tonalite to dioritic host rock is overprinted with porphyry style mineralization increasing the potential for bulk mining. Hole KARDD0002 recorded a bulk intersection of 219.8 m at 1.59 g/t AuEq with a higher grade core of 149.4m at 2.12 g/t AuEq, starting at 5.2 m from surface (see Fig 1). Importantly, hole KARDD0002 drilled only approximately two-thirds of the width of the mineralized corridor, with the eastern one-third untested (see Fig 2-3). Arakompa is sparsely drilled, open along strike, at depth and along its width. K92s maiden drill results represent the first drilling on the project completed in 32 years. A total of 18 holes were drilled historically, with the vast majority shallow, recording significant high grade, including 15 intersections above 5 g/t AuEq, 8 intersections above 10 g/t AuEq and 3 intersections above 20 g/t AuEq, with highlights including: 4.00 m at 32.03 g/t AuEq, 4.00 m at 20.21 g/t AuEq, 2.00 m at 32.01 g/t AuEq, 2.80 m at 16.18 g/t AuEq and 9.20 m at 10.67 g/t AuEq (see Table 2 for historic drill holes). K92s hole KARDD0002 is the longest hole drilled to date at Arakompa and plans are already in place to expand exploration activities near-term. Notes: (1) Drill highlights presented above are core lengths (not true widths). (2) Gold equivalent (AuEq) exploration results are calculated using longer-term commodity prices with a copper price of US$4.00/lb, a silver price of US$22.50/oz and a gold price of US$1,750/oz. John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, We are very excited to be announcing the first two drill hole results from Arakompa, demonstrating very high potential from both the multiple intersections and significant size potential from surface sampling, drill holes and local workings covering a strike of 1.7 km, a mineralized corridor of approximately 150 to 225 metres wide, and a demonstrated vertical extent of over 500 metres. Arakompa is also near infrastructure, located closer to the process plant than Kora and Judd, with relatively gradual terrain for road access up from the Markham Valley, and importantly, represents a highly prospective opportunity to potentially grow production at Kainantu beyond the Stage 4 Expansion (see Figure 4). Plans have already been actioned to expand the program at Arakompa in the near-term. Chris Muller, K92 Executive Vice President Exploration, stated, The Arakompa project represents another vein system analogous to the Kora-Judd consolidated corridor, with just as much potential. In addition to the high grade massive sulphide veins, the intervening gold mineralization at Arakompa is well developed and intimately associated with widespread phyllic alteration likely representing the upper expressions of a fertile porphyry at depth. Almost all of the 18 holes drilled by former operators, Renison Goldfields Consolidated Limited and Highlands Gold Limited, intersected excellent gold-rich intercepts, even with only 1,766 metres drilled historically. Though drill tested over a substantial strike length, drilling by these companies only tested the very shallow parts of the veins. Clear indications of the vein system at surface, around 1000m RL, are a testament to even greater strike potential to the north and exceptional depth extent as well. The proximity of the Arakompa mineralized corridor to the Kainantu Gold Mine infrastructure, even closer to the Lae-Madang Highway than Kora, is a significant attribute and will enable a major drilling campaign to be carried out cost effectively. We look forward to working with our stakeholders to delineate potentially the next major resource for Papua New Guinea. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- K92 Mining Inc. (K92 or the Company) (TSX: KNT; OTCQX: KNTNF) is pleased to announce the results of the first two drill holes completed from its maiden drill program at Arakompa at the Kainantu Gold Mine in Papua New Guinea. Arakompa is near infrastructure, located approximately 4.5 km south-east of the Kainantu Gold Mines processing plant, and closer to the process plant than the producing Kora and Judd vein systems, located approximately 3 km south-west of Arakompa. K92s recently completed hole KARDD0002 is the longest hole drilled in the history of the project, intersecting significant mineralization including 4 lodes recording 7.20 m at 24.76 g/t AuEq (3.46 m true thickness), 5.70 m at 9.94 g/t AuEq (2.74 m true thickness), 5.30 m at 6.06 g/t AuEq (2.92 m true thickness) and 3.60 m at 3.37 g/t AuEq (1.73 m true thickness). One of the lodes, intersecting 5.70 m at 9.94 g/t AuEq, recorded significant chalcopyrite and bornite mineralization, with the copper component grading 1.7%. High grade lode mineralization appears to have significant similarities to Kora and Judd (see Arakompa Vein System Background below). Additionally, results from hole KARDD0002 demonstrate potential for bulk mining at Arakompa. Between the lodes, the tonalite to dioritic host rock is mineralized, overprinted with porphyry style gold-copper mineralization. Hole KARDD0002 recorded a bulk intersection of 219.8 m at 1.59 g/t AuEq (112.1 m true thickness) with a higher grade core of 149.4m at 2.12 g/t AuEq (78.4 m true thickness), starting at 5.2 m from surface (see Figure 1). Importantly, hole KARDD0002 drilled approximately only two-thirds of the width of the mineralized corridor, with the eastern one-third untested and prospective as shown via rock samples, including 5.8 g/t Au and 11.6 g/t Au. The maiden drilling results are the first holes completed in 32 years, with limited and shallow drilling completed historically (18 holes, 1,766 m drilled). Of the 18 holes drilled historically, there were 15 intersections above 5 g/t AuEq, 8 intersections above 10 g/t AuEq and 3 intersections above 20 g/t AuEq, with highlights including: 004DA92 4.00 m at 32.03 g/t AuEq (3.32 m true thickness) 013AD92 4.00 m at 20.21 g/t AuEq (3.40 m true thickness) 001AD92 2.80 m at 16.18 g/t AuEq (2.41 m true thickness) 005AD92 2.00 m at 32.01 g/t AuEq (1.26 m true thickness) 016AD92 6.30 m at 14.96 g/t AuEq (2.39 m true thickness) 010AD92 9.20 m at 10.67 g/t AuEq (4.32 m true thickness) Surface field work completed historically and by K92 has demonstrated that the target size of Arakompa is significant, with mineralization observed from drill holes, rock samples and surface workings for at least 1.7 km of strike, hosted within an approximately 150 to 225 m wide mineralized intense phyllic altered package, and a vertical extent of over 500 metres. Plans are already in place to expand exploration activities in the near term. Arakompa Vein System Background The Arakompa project is interpreted to be an intrusive related gold-copper-silver epithermal vein system with similarities to the producing Kora and Judd vein systems. A significant difference at Arakompa is that it is hosted in tonalite to dioritic rock, whereas Kora and Judd are hosted predominantly in metasediments (phyllite). Mineralization at Arakompa is in pronounced vein lodes but is also widespread across a very broad envelope, hosted in strongly altered tonalite and diorite. This has been interpreted to have resulted from collapsing argillic and advanced argillic alteration and the propylitic alteration of the basement tonalite are interpreted to originate from the intrusion of a large magmatic porphyry body. Phyllic alternation appears to be associated with gold mineralization, providing a large halo (at least 100 m wide) around the vein corridor. There has likely been an upwelling of phyllic alteration from the porphyry into the high grade veins. This has resulted in mineralization between the veins, providing the potential for bulk mining. Multi-stage mineralizing events with several phases of quartz-sulphide development is apparent within the veins themselves. The sequence of early quartz deposited from a mesothermal dilute fluid followed by pyrite-copper-gold Bi-Te-Pb-Zn-Sn mineralization at Arakompa has many similarities to the same events encountered at Kora and Judd. The main sulphides are pyrite, chalcopyrite, bornite and bismuthinite. As at Kora, chalcopyrite forms late, overprinting early phases of pyrite. Gold is documented in petrological reports and shown in photomicrographs as occurring in quartz, or often as inclusions overgrown by chalcopyrite. Porphyry evidence is widespread at Arakompa. Localised, high level B veins (quartz with centreline pyrite) are present, typical of the upper parts of a porphyry system. Magnetite-epidote alteration represents classic prograde porphyry assemblages, indicative of the inner propylitic shell. Chalcocite is also locally present, suggesting an underlying copper-enriched body. Figures A cross section showing KARDD0002 at Arakompa is provided in Figure 1. A long section showing Arakompa drilling to date is provided in Figure 2. A plan map for Arakompa is provided in Figure 3. A location map is provided in Figure 4. Core photographs are provided of drill hole KARDD0002 in Figure 5. Mineralized specimen photographs of drill hole KARDD0002 in Figure 6. Table 1 Kainantu Gold Mine Significant Intercepts from Arakompa Diamond Drilling Hole_ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True width (m) Gold g/t Silver g/t Copper % Gold Eq KARDD0001 0.00 1.50 1.50 0.86 5.54 4 0.05 5.68 Including 0.00 0.40 0.40 0.23 8.33 3 0.05 8.45 Including 0.40 1.50 1.10 0.63 4.52 5 0.05 4.67 KARDD0001 41.90 42.30 0.40 0.23 3.07 11 0.06 3.30 KARDD0001 79.00 83.00 4.00 2.28 2.38 5 0.28 2.88 Including 79.00 79.60 0.60 0.34 4.53 10 0.14 4.87 Including 79.60 80.00 0.40 0.23 4.17 8 0.16 4.52 Including 80.00 80.60 0.60 0.34 2.83 9 0.68 4.01 Including 80.60 81.00 0.40 0.23 1.38 2 0.07 1.52 Including 81.00 81.50 0.50 0.29 0.54 0 0.18 0.82 Including 81.50 82.00 0.50 0.29 2.44 0 0.10 2.60 Including 82.00 82.50 0.50 0.29 0.51 0 0.06 0.61 Including 82.50 83.00 0.50 0.29 2.29 6 0.72 3.50 KARDD0001 94.50 95.00 0.50 0.29 3.25 59 0.07 4.12 KARDD0001 96.00 96.30 0.30 0.17 2.96 4 0.40 3.63 KARDD0001 103.30 103.80 0.50 0.31 2.23 6 0.41 2.95 KARDD0001 117.50 118.00 0.50 0.31 9.06 101 0.58 11.27 KARDD0001 123.60 124.00 0.40 0.25 4.83 50 3.34 10.71 KARDD0002 5.20 225.00 219.80 112.14 1.45 3 0.07 1.59 (Bulk Intersection) KARDD0002 5.20 154.60 149.40 78.35 1.93 3 0.09 2.12 (Bulk Intersection) KARDD0002 5.20 10.50 5.30 2.92 5.92 5 0.04 6.06 Including 5.20 6.00 0.80 0.44 2.45 4 0.04 2.57 Including 6.00 6.70 0.70 0.39 3.83 8 0.05 4.01 Including 6.70 7.50 0.80 0.44 10.23 4 0.06 10.38 Including 7.50 8.20 0.70 0.39 6.61 4 0.05 6.74 Including 8.20 8.60 0.40 0.22 23.60 4 0.08 23.78 Including 8.60 9.00 0.40 0.22 1.24 1 0.02 1.29 Including 9.00 9.50 0.50 0.28 0.36 11 0.01 0.52 Including 9.50 10.00 0.50 0.28 0.40 11 0.01 0.56 Including 10.00 10.50 0.50 0.28 7.23 1 0.03 7.29 KARDD0002 100.30 106.00 5.70 2.74 6.96 23 1.71 9.94 Including 100.30 100.80 0.50 0.24 4.52 2 0.14 4.76 Including 100.80 101.50 0.70 0.34 30.73 21 0.58 31.90 Including 101.50 102.00 0.50 0.24 0.89 3 0.26 1.34 Including 102.00 102.50 0.50 0.24 0.53 6 0.23 0.96 Including 102.50 103.00 0.50 0.24 9.03 72 3.51 15.46 Including 103.00 103.50 0.50 0.24 7.39 73 7.34 19.83 Including 103.50 104.00 0.50 0.24 2.58 71 6.81 14.17 Including 104.00 104.50 0.50 0.24 2.75 3 0.13 3.00 Including 104.50 105.00 0.50 0.24 1.35 3 0.23 1.75 Including 105.00 105.50 0.50 0.24 1.97 0 0.01 1.99 Including 105.50 106.00 0.50 0.24 5.30 1 0.04 5.38 KARDD0002 143.60 150.80 7.20 3.46 24.44 13 0.10 24.76 Including 143.60 144.40 0.80 0.38 4.31 3 0.02 4.38 Including 144.40 144.80 0.40 0.19 0.86 3 0.01 0.92 Including 144.80 145.50 0.70 0.34 10.80 5 0.02 10.89 Including 145.50 146.30 0.80 0.38 26.86 18 0.06 27.19 Including 146.30 147.16 0.86 0.41 30.86 20 0.02 31.15 Including 147.16 147.50 0.34 0.16 11.09 21 0.02 11.39 Including 147.50 148.00 0.50 0.24 33.14 43 0.78 34.91 Including 148.00 149.30 1.30 0.62 71.60 15 0.03 71.84 Including 149.30 149.70 0.40 0.19 3.20 6 0.15 3.51 Including 149.70 150.30 0.60 0.29 1.44 3 0.01 1.50 Including 150.30 150.80 0.50 0.24 2.04 5 0.21 2.44 KARDD0002 221.40 225.00 3.60 1.73 3.31 4 0.02 3.38 Including 221.40 221.70 0.30 0.14 1.46 0 0.01 1.47 Including 221.70 222.70 1.00 0.48 2.47 1 0.01 2.50 Including 222.70 223.30 0.60 0.29 6.88 6 0.02 6.99 Including 223.30 224.00 0.70 0.34 4.77 11 0.04 4.97 Including 224.00 224.40 0.40 0.19 1.35 1 0.01 1.38 Including 224.40 225.00 0.60 0.29 1.65 0 0.01 1.67 KARDD0002 246.60 247.80 1.20 0.58 10.02 15 0.32 10.71 KARDD0002 253.90 255.30 1.40 0.67 2.66 6 0.07 2.84 Including 253.90 254.50 0.60 0.29 0.92 1 0.05 1.01 Including 254.50 254.80 0.30 0.14 1.14 2 0.03 1.22 Including 254.80 255.30 0.50 0.24 5.65 13 0.11 6.00 Table 2 Kainantu Gold Mine Historical Intercepts from Arakompa Diamond Drilling Hole_ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True width (m) Gold g/t Silver g/t Copper % Gold Eq 001AD92 11.20 14.00 2.80 2.41 16.16 0.00 0.02 16.18 Including 11.20 12.70 1.50 1.29 2.51 0 0.01 2.53 Including 12.70 14.00 1.30 1.12 31.90 0 0.02 31.93 001AD92 18.00 21.00 3.00 2.58 4.53 0 0.02 4.55 Including 18.00 20.00 2.00 1.72 5.20 0 0.02 5.23 Including 20.00 21.00 1.00 0.86 3.18 0 0.02 3.21 001AD92 46.00 48.00 2.00 1.72 4.73 16 0.24 5.31 002AD92 42.00 46.00 4.00 2.96 1.95 3 0.02 2.01 Including 42.00 44.00 2.00 1.48 2.86 1 0.02 2.90 Including 44.00 46.00 2.00 1.48 1.04 6 0.01 1.14 002AD92 72.00 74.00 2.00 1.48 2.80 42 0.02 3.38 003AD92 86.00 92.00 6.00 4.50 4.11 5 0.11 4.34 Including 86.00 88.00 2.00 1.50 7.68 5 0.23 8.11 Including 88.00 90.00 2.00 1.50 0.95 4 0.06 1.10 Including 90.00 92.00 2.00 1.50 3.70 5 0.04 3.82 004AD92 39.00 43.00 4.00 3.32 31.17 23 0.36 32.03 Including 39.00 41.00 2.00 1.66 55.80 39 0.38 56.90 Including 41.00 43.00 2.00 1.66 6.53 7 0.34 7.16 005AD92 18.00 20.00 2.00 1.26 31.90 5 0.03 32.01 005AD92 34.00 41.00 7.00 4.41 2.30 1 0.02 2.36 Including 34.00 35.00 1.00 0.63 6.42 2 0.04 6.51 Including 35.00 36.00 1.00 0.63 0.76 2 0.03 0.82 Including 36.00 37.00 1.00 0.63 1.30 1 0.02 1.35 Including 37.00 38.00 1.00 0.63 0.23 1 0.01 0.26 Including 38.00 38.90 0.90 0.57 0.56 1 0.02 0.60 Including 38.90 40.00 1.10 0.69 5.29 4 0.04 5.40 005AD92 57.90 59.90 2.00 1.26 2.77 17 0.06 3.09 Including 57.90 58.90 1.00 0.63 1.43 24 0.08 1.86 Including 58.90 59.90 1.00 0.63 4.10 11 0.05 4.32 006AD92 49.00 52.50 3.50 2.21 3.88 91 0.02 5.08 Including 49.00 50.90 1.90 1.20 6.17 94 0.04 7.44 Including 50.90 52.50 1.60 1.01 1.15 87 0.00 2.27 006AD92 68.30 77.00 8.70 5.48 1.99 27 0.06 2.43 Including 68.30 69.80 1.50 0.95 2.09 24 0.04 2.47 Including 69.80 71.30 1.50 0.95 2.03 53 0.06 2.79 Including 71.30 72.80 1.50 0.95 1.02 37 0.08 1.63 Including 72.80 75.00 2.20 1.39 0.32 22 0.03 0.65 Including 75.00 77.00 2.00 1.26 4.43 7 0.11 4.68 008AD92 39.70 42.20 2.50 1.48 12.99 10 0.21 13.45 Including 39.70 40.50 0.80 0.47 1.43 3 0.01 1.49 Including 40.50 41.20 0.70 0.41 42.20 29 0.66 43.61 Including 41.20 42.20 1.00 0.59 1.79 3 0.06 1.91 009AD92 13.40 18.50 5.10 4.69 10.45 12 0.09 10.75 Including 13.40 15.10 1.70 1.56 13.00 15 0.12 13.37 Including 15.10 15.70 0.60 0.55 18.70 20 0.08 19.08 Including 15.70 16.70 1.00 0.92 14.00 15 0.17 14.45 Including 16.70 17.70 1.00 0.92 4.10 8 0.04 4.25 Including 17.70 18.10 0.40 0.37 1.36 3 0.01 1.41 Including 18.10 18.50 0.40 0.37 3.30 6 0.01 3.40 010AD92 26.50 35.70 9.20 4.32 10.13 10 0.26 10.67 Including 26.50 27.40 0.90 0.42 3.94 3 0.02 4.01 Including 27.40 29.30 1.90 0.89 1.37 1 0.03 1.43 Including 29.30 30.00 0.70 0.33 81.20 35 0.06 81.74 Including 30.00 30.45 0.45 0.21 5.50 2 0.00 5.52 Including 30.45 31.60 1.15 0.54 9.20 8 0.01 9.32 Including 31.60 32.35 0.75 0.35 0.22 1 0.00 0.23 Including 32.35 33.00 0.65 0.31 0.25 1 0.00 0.26 Including 33.00 34.80 1.80 0.85 0.41 1 0.01 0.42 Including 34.80 35.70 0.90 0.42 17.90 64 2.50 22.63 011AD92 2.00 3.50 1.50 1.43 2.37 4 0.03 2.47 Including 2.00 2.80 0.80 0.76 2.78 6 0.03 2.90 Including 2.80 3.50 0.70 0.67 1.90 3 0.03 1.97 011AD92 22.75 28.30 5.55 5.27 3.55 13 0.02 3.74 Including 22.75 24.00 1.25 1.19 1.58 10 0.02 1.74 Including 24.00 26.00 2.00 1.90 1.70 12 0.01 1.87 Including 26.00 28.00 2.00 1.90 6.82 13 0.01 7.01 Including 28.00 28.30 0.30 0.29 2.31 31 0.02 2.74 011AD92 40.00 44.05 4.05 3.85 2.48 3 0.04 2.59 Including 40.00 42.00 2.00 1.90 1.28 2 0.05 1.37 Including 42.00 43.45 1.45 1.38 1.36 2 0.04 1.45 Including 43.45 44.05 0.60 0.57 9.20 13 0.02 9.39 012AD92 0.00 3.70 3.70 2.63 5.92 2 0.02 5.97 Including 0.00 2.00 2.00 1.42 8.10 1 0.02 8.14 Including 2.00 3.10 1.10 0.78 3.50 1 0.03 3.55 Including 3.10 3.70 0.60 0.43 3.07 7 0.02 3.18 012AD92 56.00 56.60 0.60 0.43 2.09 49 0.42 3.38 012AD92 64.00 64.65 0.65 0.46 2.60 12 0.35 3.30 013AD92 15.00 19.00 4.00 3.40 19.80 10 0.18 20.21 Including 15.00 16.80 1.80 1.53 42.80 17 0.30 43.48 Including 16.80 17.80 1.00 0.85 0.64 1 0.06 0.74 Including 17.80 19.00 1.20 1.02 1.27 7 0.10 1.51 014AD92 20.70 31.90 11.20 5.49 7.58 13 0.06 7.85 Including 20.70 22.20 1.50 0.74 42.60 37 0.02 43.10 Including 22.20 24.60 2.40 1.18 0.77 2 0.03 0.85 Including 24.60 25.80 1.20 0.59 1.64 6 0.11 1.88 Including 25.80 26.80 1.00 0.49 1.14 1 0.04 1.21 Including 26.80 27.80 1.00 0.49 1.37 1 0.04 1.45 Including 27.80 29.00 1.20 0.59 4.33 27 0.10 4.83 016AD92 59.00 60.60 1.60 0.61 6.48 48 1.23 9.02 Including 59.00 59.80 0.80 0.30 7.35 77 2.10 11.63 Including 59.80 60.60 0.80 0.30 5.61 19 0.35 6.40 016AD92 71.20 72.45 1.25 0.48 4.09 12 0.58 5.14 Including 71.20 71.85 0.65 0.25 4.95 18 1.05 6.83 Including 71.85 72.05 0.20 0.08 0.90 6 0.15 1.21 Including 72.05 72.45 0.40 0.15 4.29 4 0.02 4.38 016AD92 84.90 91.20 6.30 2.39 12.77 24 1.02 14.69 Including 84.90 86.00 1.10 0.42 16.50 26 0.30 17.30 Including 86.00 87.00 1.00 0.38 8.52 8 0.19 8.91 Including 87.00 88.00 1.00 0.38 22.10 31 1.50 24.85 Including 88.00 89.00 1.00 0.38 12.70 36 2.30 16.77 Including 89.00 90.20 1.20 0.46 15.10 29 1.13 17.24 Including 90.20 91.20 1.00 0.38 0.89 12 0.79 2.28 018AD92 199.00 202.00 3.00 2.31 5.30 1 0.01 5.31 Table 3 Kainantu Gold Mine Collar Locations for Current K92 Arakompa Drilling Hole ID Collar location Collar orientation AMG East AMG North Local North Local East mRL Dip Local azimuth EOH depth (m) KARDD0001 58260.94 33977.59 1429.3 -45 300 301.6 378352 9320437 KARDD0002 58260.45 33980.92 1425.7 -45 315 323.6 378354.7 9320439 Table 4 Kainantu Gold Mine Collar Locations for Historical Arakompa Drilling Hole ID Collar location Collar orientation AMG East AMG North Local North Local East mRL Dip Local azimuth EOH depth (m) 001AD92 58250.93 33854.64 1449.95 -45 135 100 378272.15 9320342.97 002AD92 58305.95 33913.89 1445.9 -45 135 88.8 378275.13 9320423.77 003AD92 58394.97 33893.39 1429.3 -45 135 100.9 378197.68 9320472.21 004AD92 58328.43 33970.16 1415.3 -45 315 80.05 378299.02 9320479.46 005AD92 58044.81 33318.22 1545.89 -45 285 81.1 378038.67 9319817.88 006AD92 58044.57 33319.12 1545.89 -65 285 92.7 378039.47 9319818.35 007AD92 58206.64 33626.96 1411.4 -45 165 56.6 378142.5 9320150.64 008AD92 58207.28 33626.78 1411.4 -65 165 60 378141.92 9320150.96 009AD92 58224.47 33694.72 1392.4 -45 165 34.3 378177.8 9320211.16 010AD92 58224.47 33694.72 1392.3 -80 165 43.9 378177.8 9320211.16 011AD92 58264.41 33833.55 1441.34 -45 135 80 378247.71 9320337.58 012AD92 58264.7 33832.6 1441.34 -70 135 108.6 378246.83 9320337.12 013AD92 58326.61 33973.73 1415.84 -45 135 50 378302.83 9320480.69 014AD92 58327.23 33973.18 1415.84 -70 135 83.8 378302 9320480.74 015AD92 58378.12 34068.23 1331.4 -45 315 72.9 378333.21 9320583.94 016AD92 58377.57 34068.67 1331.4 -65 315 118 378333.91 9320583.87 017AD92 58295.28 33795.54 1415.55 -45 135 175.5 378199 9320332.53 018AD92 58295.92 33794.9 1415.55 -64 135 250 378198.1 9320332.53 Drill Hole Sampling Methodology, QA/QC and Qualified Person The diamond drill hole is first logged to determine the sampling intervals, which range from a minimum of 0.1 metres to generally 1 metre. The drill core is sawn half core cut along a reference line, with the remainder of the core returned to the core tray. Core samples are then placed in numbered calico and plastic bags, with a numbered sample ticket for dispatch to the assay laboratory. Samples are separately assayed for gold, copper and silver. K92s procedure includes the insertion standards, blanks and duplicates. Gold assays are by the fire assay method. Copper and silver assays are by three-acid-digestion method (nitric, perchloric & hydrochloric mix). K92 maintains an industry-standard analytical quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) and data verification program to monitor laboratory performance and ensure high quality assays. Results from this program confirm reliability of the assay results. All sampling and analytical work for the mine exploration program is performed by Intertek Testing Services (PNG) Ltd, an independent accredited laboratory that is located on site. External check assays for QA/QC purposes are performed at SGS Australia Pty Ltd in Townsville, Queensland, Australia. K92 Executive Vice President Exploration, Mr. Chris Muller, PGeo, and K92 Mine Geology Manager and Mine Exploration Manager, Andrew Kohler, MAIG, both Qualified Persons under the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), have reviewed and are responsible for the technical content of this news release. In addition to the analytical QA/QC program outlined above, data verification also includes significant time onsite reviewing drill core, soil and outcrop sampling, artisanal workings, as well as discussing work programs and results with geology personnel and external consultants. About K92 K92 Mining Inc. is engaged in the production of gold, copper and silver at the Kainantu Gold Mine in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea, as well as exploration and development of mineral deposits in the immediate vicinity of the mine. The Company declared commercial production from Kainantu in February 2018 and is in a strong financial position. A maiden resource estimate on the Blue Lake porphyry project was completed in August 2022. K92 is operated by a team of mining company professionals with extensive international mine-building and operational experience. On Behalf of the Company, John Lewins, Chief Executive Officer and Director For further information, please contact David Medilek, P.Eng., CFA, President and Chief Operating Officer at +1-604-416-4445 CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (i) the results of the Kainantu Mine Definitive Feasibility Study, and the Kainantu 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment, including the Stage 3 Expansion, a new standalone 1.2 mtpa process plant and supporting infrastructure; (ii) statements regarding the expansion of the mine and development of any of the deposits; (iii) the Kainantu Stage 4 Expansion, operating two standalone process plants, larger surface infrastructure and mining throughputs; and (iv) the potential extended life of the Kainantu Mine. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as expect, plan, anticipate, project, target, potential, schedule, forecast, budget, estimate, intend or believe and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions will, would, may, could, should or might occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control, that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation, Public Health Crises, including the COVID-19 virus; changes in the price of gold, silver, copper and other metals in the world markets; fluctuations in the price and availability of infrastructure and energy and other commodities; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; volatility in price of our common shares; inherent risks associated with the mining industry, including problems related to weather and climate in remote areas in which certain of the Companys operations are located; failure to achieve production, cost and other estimates; risks and uncertainties associated with exploration and development of the Kora, Judd, Arakompa and other projects; uncertainties relating to estimates of mineral resources including uncertainty that mineral resources may never be converted into mineral reserves; the Companys ability to carry on current and future operations, including development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Companys ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the availability and costs of achieving the Stage 3 Expansion or the Stage 4 Expansion; the ability of the Company to achieve the inputs the price and market for outputs, including gold, silver and copper; failures of information systems or information security threats; political, economic and other risks associated with the Companys foreign operations; geopolitical events and other uncertainties, such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine; compliance with various laws and regulatory requirements to which the Company is subject to, including taxation; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions, including relationship with the communities in Papua New Guinea and other jurisdictions it operates; other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry; and the risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to in the Companys Annual Information Form under the heading Risk Factors. Estimates of mineral resources are also forward-looking statements because they constitute projections, based on certain estimates and assumptions, regarding the amount of minerals that may be encountered in the future and/or the anticipated economics of production. The estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves is inherently uncertain and involves subjective judgments about many relevant factors. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The accuracy of any such estimates is a function of the quantity and quality of available data, and of the assumptions made and judgments used in engineering and geological interpretation, Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actual results to differ materially from those that are anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Figure 1 Arakompa Cross-Section Showing KARDD0002 Figure 2 Arakompa Long Section Figure 3 Arakompa Plan Map Figure 4 Site Map and Location of Arakompa, located near infrastructure (~4.5km from the Process Plant). Figure 5 KARDD0002 Core Photograph, 144.28 149.80m; within intersection of 7.2m at 24.44 g/t Au, 0.10 % Cu, 13 g/t Ag. Figure 6 KARDD0002 Mineralized Specimens Photographs. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c9bcdc2-ca80-4d1a-bd53-3684d19885c3 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/655ff696-2714-4377-a6f5-7b219ade91b4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e1013c4f-55bc-464b-8e06-f395a5d7a58b https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/777e0617-68e5-4707-84d8-26f0794dc13b https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4da86829-42b3-4b20-85ae-444c5c7a7ef9 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/348303ba-13f3-4408-89ea-96daf4f902b8 New Delhi, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global ocular adhesives and sealants market is projected to more than double in size, from a valuation of US$ 214.3 million in 2023 to reach US$ 455.5 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period 20242032. The prevalence of vision impairment worldwide is immense. A staggering 2.2 billion people are affected, with almost half living with a condition that either could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed. Cataracts alone account for more than 94 million cases of blindness while glaucoma threatens irreversible vision loss in over 80 million people. The risk of developing age-related conditions such as macular degeneration only adds to the complexity of this situation, affecting over 200 million people globally. But its not just the elderly who face these problems - diabetic retinopathy threatens the sight of over 100 million adults alone. All these factors are adding fuel to the demand and growth of the global ocular adhesives and sealants market. Request a Free Sample Copy @ https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/ocular-adhesives-and-sealants-market This has forced health professionals and organizations to rely more heavily on surgical interventions. Cataract surgery is currently the most frequent eye surgery performed, as there are more than 22 million procedures being done each year - and this number is steadily increasing alongside rising glaucoma prevalence. In fact, Astute Analyticas study suggests that more than 23% revenue of the market comes from glaucoma surgeries. However, with aging populations and regional disparities in disease burden due to inequalities in healthcare access also on the rise, ocular adhesives and sealants are going to be an increasingly sought-after answer to these issues. Ocular adhesives and sealants are also benefiting from a wave of innovation, driven by research into new biomaterials that offer better tolerability in the eye. All this R&D activity is leading to safer and more effective products for ocular surgeries. And with an aging global population a key risk factor for many ocular disorders plus regional disparities in disease burden due to variations in healthcare access, demand is sure to rise as countries race to find affordable solutions to prevent vision loss. Key Findings in Global Ocular Adhesives and Sealants Market Market Forecast (2032) US$ 455.5 million CAGR 9.5% Largest Region (2023) Europe (31.1%) By Type Synthetic (66.9%) By End User Ophthalmic clinics (27.2%) By Application Glaucoma Surgery (23.4%) Top Trends Biomimetic adhesives for optimal tissue integration Customized solutions for diverse surgical procedures Integration with tissue engineering for reconstruction Top Drivers Rising prevalence of vision-threatening ocular diseases to spur growth of ocular adhesives and sealants market Preference for minimally invasive surgical techniques Demand for improved post-surgery patient outcomes Top Challenges Achieving optimal biocompatibility to prevent inflammation Regulatory complexity for novel hybrid/engineered constructs Ensuring sufficient bonding strength while promoting healing Shift Towards Minimal Invasive Surgeries Catalyzing Demand for Ocular Adhesives and Sealants Market The rise of minimally invasive surgeries has sparked an influx of innovation and demand for ocular adhesives and sealants. With smaller cuts being the preferred method, sutures aren't cutting it anymore. The adhesive way is now being favored when creating a perfect seal that'll heal faster by not getting in the way. Biocompatible adhesives have been made to mimic the healing process of our bodies, reducing complications that can lead to rejection. A hybrid material type lets surgeons customize adhesive properties to fit what they need when performing surgery. Sealants powered by light are now revolutionizing surgical precision in the global ocular adhesives and sealants market by allowing doctors to better control delicate procedures done on eyes. This also makes it easier for new surgical approaches to be taken, expanding possibilities with these materials alone. Weve even figured out how to add antimicrobial properties into the mix which drastically reduces post-surgical infection risks something we should all be glad about. And as if that werent enough, bioresorbable and 'smart' adhesives were innovated so patients won't have to go through any procedure that solely focuses on removing leftover materials. All this progress will ultimately lead the market down to a path where successful outcomes become more common after going under the surgeries or laser in this case. Making sure everyone has access to low-risk surgeries can speed up ways vision impairment treatment is provided all over the world. Europe Holds Prominence Over Global Ocular Adhesives and Sealants Market with More than 31% Revenue Contribution Europes dominance in the global market for ocular adhesives and sealants is driven by several factors. The regions advanced healthcare infrastructure enables wider patient access to specialized treatments. In Germany, for instance, over 800,000 cataract surgeries are performed each year, with a majority of them depending on adhesives for wound closure. Switzerland and Finland have high ophthalmologist density rates as well. This means that the expertise of surgeons who use these products is within reach for most people in these countries. Europes comprehensive insurance coverage also removes financial obstacles to using cutting-edge materials like ocular adhesives. Innovation is another major growth driver in the ocular adhesives and sealants market, as European pharma giants rank among the industry leaders in R&D spendingthe main source of new adhesive and sealant technologies. Roughly one-fifth of all global clinical trials for these materials are conducted across Europe, highlighting the continents focus on evidence-based adoption of innovative products. With its strict regulatory standards for drugs and medical devices, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) further enhances trust in the safety and efficacy of commercialized adhesives and sealants. Europe has a large aging population that requires ongoing treatment with eye adhesives used in procedures such as cataract surgery and glaucoma surgery. A quarter of Europeans are aged 60 or oldera group that has higher chances of developing vision-threatening diseases such as macular degenerationand will need to continue receiving care with these ophthalmic materials to maintain their sight. One thing worth mentioning here is that while our findings identified key economic centers around Europe ocular adhesives and sealants market such as London, Zurich, Frankfurt, Parisdemand drivers extend beyond these cities to smaller yet highly matured healthcare systems throughout the continent. Ocular Adhesives & Sealants: Manufacturers Can Capture Rapid Growth in Tissue Engineering Applications Glaucoma surgery will continue to hold the largest market share an expected 23.4% revenue share driven by high disease prevalence and established procedures such as trabeculectomies. However, ocular adhesives and sealants will rapidly gain adoption in tissue engineering, with a CAGR of 10.5%, signaling a move beyond traditional wound closure. Advancements in biocompatibility, customization and regenerative potential position adhesives as core tools for securing corneal transplants, attaching retinal tissue (where they play a crucial part in preventing vision loss) and promoting healing in complex corneal injuries. Manufacturers in the global ocular adhesives and sealants market stand to benefit significantly by developing solutions that cater to this paradigm shift in ocular medicine. This includes creating procedure-specific adhesives, integrating growth factors/cellular components, optimizing delivery systems and offering controlled degradation rates. Success depends upon collaborations between manufacturers and tissue engineering researchers that resolve clinical needs while securing IP and navigating the evolving regulatory landscape around lab-grown tissue integration a disruptive technology using specialized adhesives. In addition to consistent demand driven by an estimated 111 million cases of glaucoma by 2040, this analysis identifies tissue engineering as a quickly expanding front for ocular adhesives and sealants alongside traditional applications. Analyst View: Navigating the Ocular Adhesives & Sealants Opportunities for Innovation & Strategic Positioning While the worlds biggest players shape the ocular adhesives and sealants market, continuing innovations offer room for disruption in the ocular adhesives and sealants space. To gain an edge, companies must focus on differentiating their products within specific applications. This could mean creating a new type of sealant perfect for a certain eye surgery, or offering adhesive with customized delivery for more complex transplants. Understanding the ever-changing regulations will be crucial to successfully develop and sell these products at scale. Especially when it comes to cutting-edge tissue-engineered constructs. To become successful in the global ocular adhesives and sealants market, collaborations between material manufacturers, surgeons, and researchers of tissue engineering are key. Making sure the players have close partnerships is essential because it allows them to make products that actually solve clinical problems. It also helps guide their product through trial phases before hitting the market. Request Methodology: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-methodology/ocular-adhesives-and-sealants-market Now as materials advance so must the procedures theyre used for. The easiest way to achieve higher adoption rates is by adapting adhesives so they work with newer techniques that arent as invasive. Theres no one size fits all solution here either. The world is huge and regions have varying levels of access to care specifically designed for older populations. Wherein, exploring alternative methods may seem risky but recognizing where treatments should be headed can highlight unmet patient needs which gives birth to new markets and opportunities for success. Ocular Adhesives and Sealants Market Key Players Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc B. Braun Melsungen AG Baxter AG Becton, Dickinson, and Company BIOFLEX BVI Holding Ltd. GluStitch Inc. Johnson & Johnson Medtronic Ocular Therapeutix Inc. Reliance Life-Sciences Other Prominent Players Key Segmentation: By Type Synthetic Urethane-based Adhesives Polyethylene Glycol Adhesives Acrylic-Based Adhesives Epoxy-Based Adhesives Silicone-Based Adhesives Cyanoacrylates Natural Fibrin Adhesives Collagen-based Adhesives Gelatin-based Adhesives Others By Application Tissue Engineering Conjunctival Surgery Refractive Surgery Vitreo-Retinal Surgery Cataract Surgery Corneal Surgery Glaucoma Surgery Others By End Users Hospitals Ophthalmic Clinics Ambulatory Surgical Centers Eye Research Institutes Others By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa (MEA) South America Gain Immediate Access: Purchase Your Exclusive Report Now! For further details or to explore our comprehensive industry reports, we invite you to connect with our dedicated team. Please reach out to us at sales@astuteanalytica.com for personalized assistance. About Astute Analytica Astute Analytica is a global analytics and advisory company which has built a solid reputation in a short period, thanks to the tangible outcomes we have delivered to our clients. We pride ourselves in generating unparalleled, in depth and uncannily accurate estimates and projections for our very demanding clients spread across different verticals. We have a long list of satisfied and repeat clients from a wide spectrum including technology, healthcare, chemicals, semiconductors, FMCG, and many more. These happy customers come to us from all across the Globe. They are able to make well calibrated decisions and leverage highly lucrative opportunities while surmounting the fierce challenges all because we analyze for them the complex business environment, segment wise existing and emerging possibilities, technology formations, growth estimates, and even the strategic choices available. In short, a complete package. All this is possible because we have a highly qualified, competent, and experienced team of professionals comprising of business analysts, economists, consultants, and technology experts. In our list of priorities, you-our patron-come at the top. You can be sure of best cost-effective, value-added package from us, should you decide to engage with us. Contact us: Vipin Singh BSI Business Park, H-15,Sector-63, Noida- 201301- India Phone: +1-888 429 6757 (US Toll Free); +91-0120- 4483891 (Rest of the World) Email: sales@astuteanalytica.com Website: https://www.astuteanalytica.com/ NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new white paper released today from Winterberry Group, a strategic advisory consultancy, explores the business and economic considerations of building an enterprise data layer to support the integration, management and activation of data and identity. Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure (February 2024) documents the components of this layer inside many organizations, and how they are changing both in Europe and North America. According to Winterberry Group, in the United States alone, $27 billion will be spent in 2024 on data, data services and data infrastructure to support an estimated $270 billion in U.S. media buying across data-driven channels. Data spend to support not just these channels but the enterprise decision-making behind media and marketing selection is projected to rise to more than $33 billion by 2027, the Company reports. The paper explores core solutions in the data layer, including: master data management; identity graphs; data clean rooms; data lakes; customer data platforms; analytic data environments, data warehouses; customer relationship management platforms; and LLM [large language models] data warehouses. U.S. Marketing Data, Data Services and Data Infrastructure Spending Projections, 2024-27. Source: Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024. The paper is the culmination of insights derived from more than 60 expert interviewees in the advertising, marketing, publishing, regulatory, legal and agency sectors, conducted between October 2023 and February 2024. The interviews were supplemented by 200 respondents across the United States, United Kingdom, France and Germany, who answered a comprehensive survey. Several market forces are transforming how enterprises responsibly collect and use data for marketing activation, said Michael Harrison, managing partner, Winterberry Group, and a co-author of the research. Increased privacy regulation, a rapid shift toward digital-centric performance media, and the evolution of tech driven by machine and learning and generative AI [artificial intelligence] are helping to build a centralized data infrastructure that can support many business use cases involving insights, activation, optimization and measurement. Were seeing brands and companies embracing this layer as foundational. Harrison noted that the data layer directly supports two other layers that comprise marketing and advertising technology ecosystems today: the intelligence layer, which supports deriving insights to inform decision-making in strategy; and the activation layer, where inbound and outbound communications channels reach customers and prospects and are increasingly driven by both data and analytics. Getting it right, understanding how to source, unify, parse and stage the data, is vital to successful business outcomes, he said. The paper also details some of the transformation underway in the current omnichannel era of marketing within and about the data layer: A shift toward cloud-based environments , to help manage scalability, flexibility, and aspects of cost-efficiency. Hybrid hosting approaches, which combine on-premises and cloud environments, are gaining traction, enabling optimized performance while ensuring robust data security and privacy measures; , to help manage scalability, flexibility, and aspects of cost-efficiency. Hybrid hosting approaches, which combine on-premises and cloud environments, are gaining traction, enabling optimized performance while ensuring robust data security and privacy measures; The design and establishment of persistent first-party identity graphs to link proprietary PII [personally identifiable information] data with third-party assets, enriching customer insights and personalization capabilities; Marketing Organizations Intent to Invest in Data Services, 2024. Source: Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024. The evolution of Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) from systems of record to unified intelligence and data management platforms capable of integrating persistent and non-persistent identifiers to support more relevant marketing efforts; capable of integrating persistent and non-persistent identifiers to support more relevant marketing efforts; Growing demand for Data Clean Rooms (DCRs) to enable collaboration within and across brands and media providers for targeted planning, analysis and measurement in a more secure, privacy-safe environment. within and across brands and media providers for targeted planning, analysis and measurement in a more secure, privacy-safe environment. Addressing challenges in content and audience data adoption and integration, particularly structured and unstructured data residing in digital asset and content management platforms . These efforts support the development of Large Language Models (LLMs) within the intelligence layer, enhancing data-driven insights and decision-making processes. The Winterberry Group research is commissioned by numerous data and adtech/martech companies: LiveRamp, Habu, Treasure Data, mParticle, Acxiom and Aqfer. Data is critical to not only know customers, but deeply understand them across the many enterprise touchpoints and devices, screens, and browsers they engage with, said Daniella Harkins, SVP of product GTM, LiveRamp. As signal loss drives investment in first-party data, enterprises must extend the value of that data and enhance their identity strategies through strategic partnerships that unlock new insights driven by new second and third-party data relationships. As the Winterberry research highlights, privacy-enhancing technologies such as clean rooms are now essential for ethical data-driven collaboration, said Matt Kilmartin, co-founder & CEO, Habu. It's imperative for companies to possess flexible tools designed so both technical and business users can achieve any use case, driving business growth efficiently. And, these tools should be interoperable, empowering organizations to collaborate and scale with any partner, regardless of the cloud platform from which their data resides. In the age of hyper-personalization and artificial intelligence, its never been more important to get your data layer right as Winterberry Group highlights in its research. We believe a CDP that brings together data and decisioning is the future-proof customer data foundation that global enterprises need to orchestrate enriched customer experiences and drive profitable growth, said Karl Wirth, chief product & technology officer, Treasure Data. Were experiencing a major platform shift right now as (predictive) AI is multiplying the value that can be extracted from customer data, said Michael Katz, CEO, mParticle. As such, the benefit of the CDP is evolving from creating operational efficiency via simplifying martech integrations to impacting business outcomes through better decisioning at scale. While every vendor will have some sort of AI offering, its important to look for a diverse set of ML pipelines to create the most surface area for generating business outcomes. Winterberrys report underscores the rapid evolution of marketing data, driven primarily by expanding digital channels, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements, said Dana Goff, SVP and head of industry and solution strategy at Acxiom. The findings reaffirm what weve long recognized at Acxiom these changes, while challenging, offer opportunities for growth and innovation. To capitalize on this potential and thrive in a data-driven future, brands must adopt cloud-native, privacy-compliant data management and analytics solutions. Establishing a robust data strategy, supported by a strong foundation, is the path forward for businesses aiming for sustained market success in the digital era. Results of the full study, as a PDF, are available for download from Winterberry Group. ABOUT WINTERBERRY GROUP Winterberry Group is a strategic consultancy specializing in the intersecting disciplines of advertising, marketing, data, technology and commerce. We collaborate with stakeholders across the advertising and marketing ecosystemservice providers, technology developers, media companies, brands and investor groupsto identify and activate growth opportunities that drive the creation of real and lasting value. We bring decades of experience and deep industry, operational and M&A expertise that bridges strategic development and tactical executiondriving unprecedented speed-to-action. And through our highly collaborative approach, we enable knowledge transfer and actionability, giving our clients a competitive edge and powering growth in performance, team engagement and shareholder value. Learn more at https://winterberrygroup.com. [Editors Note: Editorial members of the media may request a full copy of the research by reaching out to Chet Dalzell, chet.dalzell@yahoo.com. Selected charts, findings and figures from the study may be published, sourcing Winterberry Group, Demystifying the Data Layer: Transformation of Marketing Data Infrastructure, February 2024.] Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37c8a810-a461-4916-a02e-09324bc9fced https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/512083f9-1593-4d54-b011-11f8f53193e3 TEMPLE, Texas, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With existing home inventory predicted to remain low in 2024, many home buyers are choosing to purchase new construction or instead electing to remodel their current home. Either option takes homeowners on a design journey with an array of endless selections and choices as they look to create a home that reflects their taste and lifestyle. Wilsonart, a world-leading engineered surfaces company, has unveiled four new home surface trends that are sure to inspire and bring beauty and function to any new or existing space. Surface selections are perhaps one of the most important design choices you make in a home because they can be absolutely transformative, said Danielle Mikesell, global vice president of marketing and design at Wilsonart. As we continue to balance work, play and relaxation at home, its important that our surfaces seamlessly blend performance and style. From keeping it light and bright to turning up the intensity with moody hues or embracing woodgrains in unexpected ways, this years surface trends create spaces that embody both form and function. Wilsonart conducted research with both design and industry experts as well as homeowners to compile its 2024 forecast. The four surface trends expected to make an impact include: 1. Light & Bright In the ever-evolving realm of design, the Light & Bright trend emerges as a captivating focal point, seizing the spotlight and celebrating the timeless allure of white tones. This trend promises to redefine the aesthetic landscape with fresh and bright designs that not only captivate the eye but also elevate the overall ambiance. Modern interiors that embrace the warmth of white tones transform into ideal blank canvases, offering limitless possibilities for creative expression. In the kitchen and bath, white continues to lead as the top choice for styling, and modern countertops in the Light & Bright space are often sleek and slim. In backsplashes, traditional tile is giving way to the more contemporary choice of slab which provides a seamless look and an avenue to introduce statement colors into living spaces. THINSCAPE Performance Tops, Wilsonart Quartz, Wilsonart Solid Surface and Wilsonart High Pressure Laminate (HPL) offer an array of marble and natural stone looks that are perfect for achieving this modern backsplash or countertop. The enduring popularity of white designs also transcends to bathroom showers, vanity tops and sinks. A selection of Wilsonart designs that embody the Light & Bright trend include: Wilsonart HPL Borghini Marble in a new honed Fieldstone finish HPL Borghini Marble in a new honed Fieldstone finish Wilsonart THINSCAPE Calcutta Blanc THINSCAPE Calcutta Blanc Wilsonart Solid Surface Calacatta Perlato Solid Surface Calacatta Perlato Wilsonart Quartz Calacatta Volegno Quartz Calacatta Volegno Wetwall Bathroom Wall Panels Tuscany Marble 2. Crafted Calm Crafted Calm is a soft, warm, comforting interpretation of casual living and will be seen in homes that prioritize well-being and tranquility. Connecting with nature through design is an essential element of the Crafted Calm trend, and the wellness kitchen is at the center of that connection. Here, look to countertop designs that feature warming hues trending towards cozy neutrals that inspire a sense of welcome, and pair these surfaces with rich woodgrain looks in cabinetry. As Crafted Calm moves throughout the home, functional hallways and open storage adorned with aesthetic surfaces make it easier for homeowners to reduce clutter and turn practicality into beauty. Crafted Calm brings a sense of relaxation and harmony to residential spaces, creating havens that prioritize both comfort and style. Wilsonart offers these engineered surfaces that can help create the perfectly Crafted Calm home: Wilsonart HPL Roca Bosco HPL Roca Bosco Wilsonart Woodgrains Walnut Heights Walnut Heights Ultra-matte. Ultra-Luxe. Traceless by Wilsonart Feather Velvet by Wilsonart Feather Velvet Wilsonart Quartz Mehndi Quartz Mehndi Wetwall Waterproof Wall Panels Torrone Marble 3. Fresh Heritage The new Fresh Heritage trend draws inspiration from the historic English countryside and features traditional woodgrain styling, neutral tones and polished rooms that feel lived-in and loved. It's a journey into the past with a contemporary twist, adding modern design elements through textures, niche spaces, and contrasting stone and wood colors. Google searches for English country kitchens have jumped 144%. Large, statement-making islands are a hallmark of a Fresh Heritage luxury transitional kitchen, but traditional design elements must be combined with contemporary functionality. Even in a heritage-inspired home, surface resilience is expected. Thats why we developed innovative AEON Technology transforming ordinary surfaces into stronger, more durable engineered surfaces with extraordinary performance for high-traffic, high-use spaces all while invisibly protecting your beautiful designs long into the future, explained Mikesell. Cabinet and furniture finishes are another essential design element of a Fresh Heritage home, particularly when they offer expressive texture or invite touch. The LUJO Collection from Wilsonart Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) offers a luxury matte Silken Wood finish that is a premium example of a surface that can add revolutionary texture to any home. Additional Wilsonart designs that embody the Fresh Heritage trend include: Wilsonart HPL Aluma Marble HPL Aluma Marble Wilsonart Solid Surface Carrara Emporio Solid Surface Carrara Emporio Wilsonart Quartz Verde Peak Quartz Verde Peak The LUJO Collection Granville Cherry and Anderson Cherry Collection Granville Cherry and Anderson Cherry Wetwall Darlington Cherry 4. Dark & Moody Luxe The Dark & Moody Luxe trend invites us to turn down color and dial-up the intensity with dramatic color contrasts that convey a deep sense of luxury. Saturated hues like blacks, brown-blacks, and deep blues and greens reclaim their place in our homes, creating a heightened sense of sophistication. Embracing the desire to 'escape at home,' this trend introduces exotic wood accent walls, bold open storage, and industrial surfaces that redefine functionality with distinctive, home-defining details. In a Dark & Moody Luxe space, surfaces with a modern ultra-matte finish such as Traceless stand as a stunning addition that invites touch and absorbs light, creating a luxurious and sensory-rich atmosphere. The innovative surface provides a sophisticated solution with a sustainable approach thats ideal for high-touch applications in kitchens and baths like cabinets, tabletops and countertops, while adding depth and dimension to the environment. An on-trend option like the Wetwall Waterproof Wall Panel System makes it easy to transform bathrooms and create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end designs without disruptive demolitions. Ideal for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls and cladding, the stylish and practical Wetwall system offers designs with dark veining and a bold appearance, perfectly suited for the Dark & Moody Luxe trend. The Dark & Moody Luxe trend also invites you to add luxury where its least expected. The luxe entry and pantry are here. These spaces are no longer an afterthought they serve as multi-functional extensions of a luxury home, added Mikesell. Dark & Moody Luxe-inspired designs from Wilsonart include: Wilsonart THINSCAPE Pietra Noir THINSCAPE Pietra Noir Wilsonart Quartz Nova Serrana in a new Natural Matte finish Quartz Nova Serrana in a new Natural Matte finish The LUJO Collection Kinglake Collection Kinglake Traceless by Wilsonart Midnight Velvet by Wilsonart Midnight Velvet Wetwall Calacatta Statuario For those looking to give their home a fresh look for the new year, Wilsonart offers residential inspiration encapsulating these top trends. For more kitchen, bath and design inspiration, visit www.wilsonart.com. 1 2024 NKBA Kitchen Trends Report 2 Magnet, 2 3 Sphere Trending About Wilsonart Whatever vision you see, Wilsonart, a world-leading engineered surfaces company, can deliver with surfaces you love and service you can count on, backed by people who care. The Company manufactures and distributes High Pressure Laminate, Coordinated TFL and Edgeband, Quartz, Solid Surface, Epoxy, and other decorative engineered surfaces for use in the office, education, healthcare, residential, hospitality, and retail markets. Operating under the Wilsonart, Arborite, Bushboard, Durcon, KML, Laminart, Mermaid, Polyrey, Ralph Wilson, Resopal, Shore, Technistone, and Wetwall brands, the Company continuously redefines decorative surfaces through improved performance and award-winning designs. For more information, visit www.wilsonart.com. Contact: Kate Kremin L.C. Williams & Associates kkremin@lcwa.com (312) 565-4611 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5ebe6d4b-7316-4007-9461-6c953dbb2b54 INDIANAPOLIS, IN, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA), recently announced the recipients of their 2023 Congressional Awards and honored U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-IN, with their Leadership Award for her work to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures Commodity Checkoff Programs. Spartz was joined by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-KY, in leading a House Appropriations Amendment in September of 2023 that would have temporarily halted the corruption within USDAs commodity checkoff programs by cutting off funding until a USDA OIG Audit on the programs could be completed. President Joe Biden's USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack has been at the center of checkoff controversy as he has directly benefited from millions of checkoff dollars funneled into his own personal coffers, and a salary of nearly $1 million per year from Dairy Management, Inc., following his eight years as President Barack Obama's USDA Secretary, before being reappointed by Biden . Spartz also cosponsored the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, H.R. 1249/S. 557, led by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC, and Sens. Mike Lee, R-UT, and Rand Paul, R-KY, that would reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures scandal-ridden checkoff programs that have been plagued by unethical and illegal activities for decades. This measure is backed by more than 200,000 farmers and ranchers across the country and groups like the Indiana Farmers Union, FreedomWorks, the American Grassfed Association, Contract Poultry Growers Association of the Virginias, American Taxpayers Union, the Heritage Foundation, as well as Reps. Massie, Alex Mooney, R-WV, and Mike Lawler, R-NY. Its an honor to receive the Competitive Markets Leadership Award from Competitive Markets Action for promoting transparency around commodity checkoff programs, said Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-IN. As a farmer myself, I understand the challenges small farmers and ranchers face, and I am committed to advancing competition in agriculture. We applaud Rep. Spartz for her tireless work, tremendous leadership, and intestinal fortitude in standing up to Chinese interests and multinational conglomerates who continue to further consolidate American agriculture, said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets and Founder of the Wyoming Independent Cattlemens Association. If Agriculture Committee leaders want to get a Farm Bill done in 2024 theyd be wise to jettison any language that nullifies state and local agriculture laws and include a provision to reform USDAs swampy checkoff slush funds. We applaud Rep. Victoria Spartz for going against the grain by pushing back against Swamp Secretary Tom Vilsack, the USDAs scandal-ridden commodity checkoff programs, and Chinas continuous attempts to takeover American agriculture, said Marty Irby, President at Competitive Markets Action and Board Secretary of the Organization for Competitive Markets. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association and National Pork Producers Council continue to lobby against the best interests of American family farmers who pay into the till and we must prevent them from putting more producers out of business in 2024. If these checkoff beneficiaries have nothing to hide then why are they so afraid of an OIG audit?" As a proud American and lifelong producer, I proudly applaud Rep. Spartz for being committed to defeating Big Ags Chinese and Brazilian backers that threaten our food supply, said Jonathan Buttram, Treasurer at the Organization for Competitive Markets, and President of the Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association. The industrial agriculture mafia is petrified of our work because they see the writing on the wall and we hope they soon meet the same fate as New Yorks infamous Five Families. OCM and CMA also conducted its third fly-in since July of 2023 to Washington, D.C. this month and engaged in nearly 90 meetings in support of the OFF Act, checkoff reform, and against the EATS Act, H.R. 4417/S. 2019, during those events. The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The foundation of the Organization for Competitive Markets is to fight for competitive markets in agriculture for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. True competition reduces the need for economic regulation. Our mission, and our duty, is to define and advocate the proper role of government in the agricultural economy as a regulator and enforcer of rules necessary for markets that are fair, honest, accessible and competitive for all citizens. Competitive Markets Action (CMA) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit based in Washington, D.C., that was formed with the mission of shaping policy to promote more regenerative and sustainable agriculture, and competitive markets in the U.S., and to defend against attacks on states rights by the federal government. CMA works to raise awareness of the harm caused by multinational conglomerates to the American family farmer, the consumer and our U.S. economy as a whole in an effort to bring about legislative and regulatory reforms. Attachments Dublin, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The APAC Space-based Edged Computing Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.74% from $20.1 million in 2022 to $181.8 million by 2033 in the forecasted period of 2023-2033. The market is being driven by new technology development and the military industry's increasing need. Market Drivers and Challenges Asia-Pacific has the advantage of having the largest manpower and resources count over their rival regions, which enables them to put in more work in the research, development, and production end for their space-based edge computing market. Furthermore, with more launches planned to take place over the course of the coming years, the space-based edge computing market is expected to see a rise in demand for this region. The majority of the space in the APAC region is dominated by India as it has a large number of companies out of other countries in the region, and so the space segment is dominated by it; hence the development and research in the space-based edge computing market are low as compared to others. Market Introduction With the introduction of Akamai's content delivery network (CDN) in the 1990s, edge computing came into being. The plan was to physically relocate nodes in order to provide stored media, such as images and videos, closer to the user. The first desktop computers were developed in the late 1970s, during which time major tech companies such as IBM, Intel, Microsoft, and Apple started to appear. This was made possible by the advancement of microprocessors and other micro-tech. The market for edge computing has expanded since then and is expected to do so in the future. The increasing need for moving data centers in space and for latency reduction in space has led to a rise in popularity for one aspect of edge computing: space-based edge computing. At the moment, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation development is a major global priority for numerous space agencies and commercial enterprises. The market for space-based edge computing would be driven by this. The development of cost-effective edge computing components through increased research and development efforts is another driver fueling the market for space-based edge computing. Market Segmentation Segmentation 1: by End User Commercial Defense Civil Government Segmentation 2: by Country China India Japan Rest-of-Asia-Pacific Key Market Players and Competition Synopsis The companies that are profiled have been selected based on inputs gathered from primary experts and analysing company coverage, product portfolio, and market penetration. Some of the prominent names established in this market are: AICRAFT Spiral Blue SkyServe Analyst's Perspective on Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market The need for resilient operations across communication networks is on the rise. The satellite-enabled networks catering to commercial and military customers operate under dynamic environments, which get contested and degraded in random fashion owing to a multitude of factors. Edge computing as a capability enables end users to navigate through these network challenges and perform mission-critical operations. Similar edge computing capabilities at the satellite/upstream level also enable functionalities that help end users. The demand for space-based edge computing capabilities across upstream and downstream segments is on the rise as a consequence, and this is resulting in new hardware and software capabilities being integrated into satellite-based communication networks across the value chain. It is imperative for the space and ICT market participants to better understand this emerging market to ensure they stand eligible to leverage the revenue opportunities that are expected to evolve as a consequence of the ongoing developments. The market developments, demand assessment, and opportunity overview are included in this study, which aims to enable decision-making with respect to space-based edge computing. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 63 Forecast Period 2023-2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $23.4 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $181.8 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 22.7% Regions Covered Asia Pacific Key Topics Covered 1 Markets 1.1 Industry Outlook 1.1.1 Global Space-based Edge Computing Market: Overview 1.1.2 Current and Emerging Technological Trends 1.1.2.1 Edge Computing With 5G 1.1.2.2 In-Orbit Data Centers 1.1.2.3 Edge Computing for Constellation Applications 1.1.2.4 Interplanetary Edge Computing 1.1.3 Edge-based Earth Observation Optimization 1.1.4 Emerging Small Satellite Constellations (0-600Kg): A Growth Opportunity for Space-based Edge Computing Solutions, 2023-2033 1.1.5 Ongoing and Upcoming Projects 1.1.5.1 ISS-HPE Spaceborne Computer 1.1.5.2 Space-based Data Centers 1.1.6 Pricing Analysis: Terrestrial vs. Cloud Computing vs. Edge Computing 1.1.7 Startups and Investment Scenarios 1.2 Value Chain Analysis 2 Asia-Pacific 2.1 Global Space-based Edge Computing Market (by Region) 2.2 Asia-Pacific 2.2.1 Market 2.2.1.1 Key Manufacturers and Service Providers in Asia-Pacific 2.2.1.2 Business Drivers 2.2.1.3 Business Challenges 2.2.2 Application 2.2.2.1 Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market (by End User) 2.2.3 Asia-Pacific (by Country) 2.2.3.1 China 2.2.3.1.1 Application 2.2.3.1.1.1 China Space-based Edge Computing Market (by End User) 2.2.3.2 Japan 2.2.3.2.1 Market 2.2.3.2.1.1 Key Manufacturers and Service Providers in Japan 2.2.3.2.2 Application 2.2.3.2.2.1 Japan Space-based Edge Computing Market (by End User) 2.2.3.3 India 2.2.3.3.1 Market 2.2.3.3.1.1 Key Manufacturers and Service Providers in India 2.2.3.3.2 Application 2.2.3.3.2.1 India Space-based Edge Computing Market (by End User) 2.2.3.4 Rest-of-Asia-Pacific 2.2.3.4.1 Market 2.2.3.4.1.1 Key Manufacturers and Service Providers in Rest-of-Asia-Pacific 2.2.3.4.2 Application 2.2.3.4.2.1 Rest-of-Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Service Market (by End User) 3 Markets - Competitive Benchmarking & Company Profiles 3.1 Competitive Benchmarking 3.2 AICRAFT 3.2.1 Company Overview 3.2.1.1 Role of AICRAFT in Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market 3.2.1.2 Product Portfolio 3.2.2 Business Strategies 3.2.2.1 New Product Launch and Merger and Acquisition 3.2.3 Analyst View 3.3 Spiral Blue 3.3.1 Company Overview 3.3.1.1 Role of Spiral Blue in Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market 3.3.1.2 Product Portfolio 3.3.2 Corporate Strategies 3.3.2.1 Partnerships, Collaborations, Agreements, and Contracts 3.3.3 Analyst View 3.4 SkyServe 3.4.1 Company Overview 3.4.1.1 Role of SkyServe in Asia-Pacific Space-based Edge Computing Market 3.4.1.2 Service Portfolio 3.4.2 Corporate Strategies 3.4.2.1 Partnerships, Collaborations, Agreements, and Contracts 3.4.3 Analyst View 4 Research Methodology 4.1 Factors for Data Prediction and Modeling For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/fz9ekh 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 CHARLESTON, SC, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA), recently announced the recipients of their 2023 Congressional Awards and honored U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC, with their Leadership Award for her work to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures Commodity Checkoff Programs, and defeat the EATS Act, H.R. 4417. Mace is the lead sponsor of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, H.R. 124 9 /S. 557 , in the House where shes worked in bipartisan fashion alongside Rep. Dina Titus, D-NV, and Sens. Mike Lee, R-UT, Rand Paul, R-KY, Cory Booker, D-NJ, and Elizabeth Warren, D-MA, to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures scandal-ridden checkoff programs that have been plagued by unethical and illegal activities for decades. This measure is backed by more than 200,000 farmers and ranchers across the country and groups like the FreedomWorks, the American Grassfed Association, Contract Poultry Growers Association of the Virginias, American Taxpayers Union, the Heritage Foundation, as well as Reps. Thomas Massie, R-KY, Alex Mooney, R-WV, Victoria Spartz, R-IN, and Mike Lawler, R-NY. OFF would reform the checkoff programs by bringing transparency and requiring the programs be audited for compliance; by prohibiting disparagement of one product over another and picking winners and losers in the marketplace; and by prohibiting checkoffs from contracting with lobbying entities like the National Cattlemens Beef Association (NCBA) who lobbied against Country-of-Origin-Labeling (COOL) and the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) who has been outspoken against state ballot measures like Californias Prop 12 that benefit American producers who practice more regenerative and sustainable agriculture. Maces campaign to reform the checkoff programs has also brought more light to controversy surrounding President Joe Biden's USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, D-IA, who has directly benefited from millions of checkoff dollars funneled into his own personal coffers, and a salary of nearly $1 million per year from Dairy Management, Inc., following his eight years as President Barack Obama's USDA Secretary, before being reappointed to the same post by Biden. Rep. Mace also co-lead a House Republican sign-on letter alongside Reps. Andrew Garbarino, R-NY, David Valadao, R-CA, and Michael Waltz, R-FL, against the so-called Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression (EATS) Act, H.R. 4417, led by Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-IA, that is designed to nullify state ballot measures across the country enacted by a direct vote of the people. Industrial agribusiness interests failed to secure the enactment of similar legislation led by former Rep. Steve King, R-IA, in the 2018 Farm Bill thanks to the work of OCM leaders and former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, R-TX, who is currently working with the Competitive Markets Groups on the issue in 2024. In the 117th Congress, Mace also co-led the Pigs in Gestation Stalls (PIGS) Act, H.R. 7004, that would have provided more space for breeding sows in pork production facilities across the U.S., a policy similar to many of the corporate pledges made by top retailers in the last several years who are working to eliminate the use of gestation crates in U.S. pork production. American farmers and their families demand leaders with the courage to boldly defy the status quo. We stand resolute, unwavering in our refusal to be swayed by the immense power wielded by industrial agribusiness and corporate giants, said Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC. The time for unwavering conviction and decisive action is now. We applaud Rep. Mace for her tireless work, tremendous leadership, and intestinal fortitude in standing up to Chinese interests and multinational conglomerates who continue to further consolidate American agriculture, said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets and Founder of the Wyoming Independent Cattlemens Association. If Agriculture Committee leaders want to get a Farm Bill done in 2024 theyd be wise to jettison any language that nullifies state and local agriculture laws and include a provision to reform USDAs swampy checkoff slush funds. Nancy Mace is a courageous American hero with real guts and we applaud her for pushing back against the China-backed EATS Act and for leading the charge to achieve checkoff reform, said Marty Irby, President & CEO at Competitive Markets Action and Board Secretary at the Organization for Competitive Markets. American family farmers finally stand a fighting chance against the checkoff whipping boys of the four-big-packer-monopoly and multinational conglomerates like the Chinese-owned Smithfield whose purchase was financed by the Chinese Communist Party. As a proud American and lifelong producer, I proudly applaud Rep. Mace for being committed to defeating Big Ags Chinese and Brazilian backers that threaten our food supply, said Jonathan Buttram, Treasurer at the Organization for Competitive Markets, and President of the Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association. The industrial agriculture mafia is petrified of our work because they see the writing on the wall and we hope they soon meet the same fate as New Yorks infamous Five Families. OCM and CMA also conducted its third fly-in since July of 2023 to Washington, D.C. this month and engaged in nearly 90 meetings in support of the OFF Act, checkoff reform, and against the EATS Act, H.R. 4417/S. 2019, during those events. The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The foundation of the Organization for Competitive Markets is to fight for competitive markets in agriculture for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. True competition reduces the need for economic regulation. Our mission, and our duty, is to define and advocate the proper role of government in the agricultural economy as a regulator and enforcer of rules necessary for markets that are fair, honest, accessible and competitive for all citizens. Competitive Markets Action (CMA) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit based in Washington, D.C., that was formed with the mission of shaping policy to promote more regenerative and sustainable agriculture, and competitive markets in the U.S., and to defend against attacks on states rights by the federal government. CMA works to raise awareness of the harm caused by multinational conglomerates to the American family farmer, the consumer and our U.S. economy as a whole in an effort to bring about legislative and regulatory reforms. Attachments Guelph, Ontario, Canada, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Skyline Industrial REIT recently purchased two newly constructed industrial assets in the Montreal, Quebec area. The REIT acquired all partner interests from its development partner, Rosefellow Fund 1, and is now the sole owner of both assets. Together, the assets total 373,360 square feet of purpose-built industrial space. On January 16, 2024, Skyline Industrial REIT acquired the remaining partner interest of 555 & 565 Avenue Victor Davis in Pointe-Claire, Quebec. This multi-tenant industrial logistics and warehousing development totals 274,000 square feet and is 100% leased to Steve Madden and Dormez-Vous (Sleep Country Canada). The development was a joint venture partnership project between Skyline Industrial REIT, F.I.T. Ventures and Rosefellow Developments. Construction was completed in late September and tenants were officially welcomed at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in October 2023. On February 20, 2024, Skyline Industrial REIT purchased a single-tenant industrial logistics and warehousing facility located at 6100 Rue Notre-Dame Est in Montreal. Completed in 2023, the building totals 98,954 square feet and is 100% leased to Proactive Supply Chain Group. Mike Bonneveld, President, Skyline Industrial REIT, commented on the two acquisitions: "We are grateful for the opportunity to acquire these assets from our development partners now that they are completed and stabilized. These assets signify not only our strategic foresight in the Montreal market, but they also underscore our commitment to enhancing our portfolio of modern, A-class industrial assets." Skyline Industrial REIT continues to focus on acquiring, operating, and developing light industrial, logistics, and warehousing assets in primary Canadian cities along major transportation routes and global shipping outlets. Post-acquisitions, Skyline Industrial REIT comprises 51 properties in five provinces across Canada, with a total of 9,984,210 square feet of industrial space. About Skyline Industrial REIT Skyline Industrial REIT (the REIT) is a privately owned and managed portfolio of industrial properties, focused on acquiring warehousing and logistics-centred properties along major highway corridors and transportation routes in Canada. Skyline Industrial REIT is distributed as an alternative investment product through Skyline Wealth Management Inc. (Skyline Wealth Management), the preferred Exempt Market Dealer for the REIT. It is also available on Fundserv (Code: SKY2012). Skyline Industrial REIT is committed to providing outstanding places to do business and superior service to its tenants, while surfacing value with a goal to deliver stable returns to its investors. To learn more about Skyline Industrial REIT, please visit SkylineIndustrialREIT.ca. To learn about additional alternative investment products offered through Skyline Wealth Management, please visit SkylineWealthManagement.ca. Skyline Industrial REIT is operated and managed by Skyline Group of Companies. Attachments It's a familiar scenario experienced by frustrated renters across the country. Hopeful tenants expressing interest in a property based on real estate images online, only to be met with the less-than-desirable, sub-par property that doesn't quite match the listing. Collapsed ceilings, mouldy walls and broken fixtures and fittings are some issues tenants, already struggling with rental affordability and availability, have been forced to put up with as housing pressures continue to mount across the country. But that could be about to change in one state with Consumer Affairs Victoria now investigating rental properties that have been inaccurately depicted in online listings. A positive step for frustrated renters and advocates alike. TikToker Jordie van den Berg exposes 'horrendous' rentals across the country in his videos. Source: Supplied Rules to protect Victoria's renters According to the government agency, real estate agents should not use photos that give the wrong impression of a property. This includes those that are digitally or otherwise enhanced to hide undesirable features, or promote other features. It also includes photos that are accompanied by comments or other pictures that wrongly suggest a property has views, or is close to amenities such as parks, beaches, schools, transport or recreational facilities. But agents have long got away with it tenant advocate and qualified lawyer Jordan van den Berg told Yahoo News Australia. "You'd be hard-pressed to find a renter who's inspected a property that looked exactly like the photos that they used in the listing. It's a major issue," said Van den Berg, who's known for calling out dodgy real estate practices online. "Misleading and deceptive advertising is illegal federally in Australia. So when agents use a photo that's 10 years old to list a property that no longer looks anything like the property, that is objectively illegal. But the average person might not know that". A listing for a Clifton Hill property in Victoria used images of the house from 2016 that did not match the current interior of the home. Source: Supplied/Jordan Van den Berg The two-bedroom house had what looks like mould, cracks and even a plant growing down one of the walls. Supplied/Jordan Van den Berg Reality of 'beautiful' home riddled with cracks and mould A recent example Van den Berg was made aware of was a property in Clifton Hill, Victoria described by the listing agent as a "beautiful" two-bedroom house. While photos shown in the listing depict a modern, new and well-kept house, the reality was sadly different with the rental advocate suggesting they were at least eight years old. Story continues Pictures shared with Yahoo News show cracked walls and tiles with what appears to be mould present throughout. In one photo, a live plant is seen growing in the corner of one room and it's just one example of many the rental advocate told Yahoo. Crackdown on dishonest real estate behaviour Consumer Affairs Victoria has a range of options available to address possible non-compliance with the law with the public often encouraged to report potential concerns, including reporting a property to them via their website. The governing agency confirmed to Yahoo News it takes matters of misleading properties seriously. "Real estate agents are expected to act honestly and ensure that advertising depicts the property truthfully and fairly. This includes the use of photos that accurately depict the property available" a Consumer Affairs Victoria spokesperson told Yahoo."We encourage Victorians to report any perceived unfair business practices to us." Jordie, who goes by Purple Pingers on social media, shared the update online. Source: Reddit/X 'A step in the right direction' Van den Berg has been reporting properties to Consumer Affairs for "quite a long time" he said and is "pretty stoked" by the attempt to finally weed out dishonesty across the real estate industry, and shared the news on social media. "It's certainly a step in the right direction," he told Yahoo. "Renters know often that the places that they live don't meet the legal standards, but they also know that their alternative is homelessness. So they have to put up with it," he said. "That's the situation that they're in because there's no alternative. And if they speak up about it, they could face eviction" Australia is still experiencing a rental crisis with unaffordability and unavailability affecting Aussie renters. Source: Getty Renters face 'far greater problems' While it is a positive move, the issue of cost and availability remains, and in Van den Berg's opinion, there are "far greater problems". "The biggest issue is the power imbalance that renters face. The fact that they can get evicted without course in Victoria," he said. "There's always going to be that threat kind of hanging over their head. And as a regulator, that's almost impossible to take any action for or against unless the government legislates around it. I think that's the biggest issue." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. LOUISVILLE, KY, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA), recently announced the recipients of their 2023 Congressional Awards and honored U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-KY, with their Leadership Award for his work to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures Commodity Checkoff Programs. Massie was joined by Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-IN, in leading a House Appropriations Amendment in September of 2023 that would have temporarily halted the corruption within USDAs commodity checkoff programs by cutting off funding until a USDA OIG Audit on the programs could be completed. President Joe Biden's USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack has been at the center of checkoff controversy as he has directly benefited from millions of checkoff dollars funneled into his own personal coffers, and a salary of nearly $1 million per year from Dairy Management, Inc., following his eight years as President Barack Obama's USDA Secretary, before being reappointed by Biden. Massie also cosponsored the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, H.R. 1249/S. 557, led by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC, and Sens. Mike Lee, R-UT, and Rand Paul, R-KY, that would reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures scandal-ridden checkoff programs that have been plagued by unethical and illegal activities for decades. This measure is backed by more than 200,000 farmers and ranchers across the country and groups like FreedomWorks, the American Grassfed Association, Contract Poultry Growers Association of the Virginias, American Taxpayers Union, the Heritage Foundation, as well as Reps. Spartz, Alex Mooney, R-WV, and Mike Lawler, R-NY. Rep. Massie is also the lead sponsor the bipartisan Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption (PRIME) Act, H.R. 2814, with 54 House cosponsors, that would exempt custom animal slaughter facilities from burdensome federal regulations for distribution and processing of meats within the state. PRIME is supported by the Competitive Markets Groups, FreedomWorks, and other conservative and farming organizations across the America and is opposed by the so-called National Cattlemens Beef Association and other interests that have helped consolidate meat processing in the U.S. under foreign control. "I am grateful for this recognition by the Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action and am committed to ensuring American family farmers have a voice in Washington, D.C. that understands how the USDA's Commodity Checkoff Programs have coopted producers and used their own money against them," said Rep. Thomas Massie, R-KY. "The number of independent farmers and ranchers that feed our nation is swiftly dwindling due to lobbying activities the checkoff programs and multinational conglomerates engage in and we must bring reform in order to keep our food supply safe from a complete takeover by Chinese and Brazilian industrial agriculture interests." We are grateful Rep. Massie has the courage and guts to stand up to industrial agriculture interests in China and Brazil and the multinational conglomerates that currently control our food supply, said Michael Pape, a Member of the Organization for Competitive Markets who resides in Hopkinsville, KY. Congress needs more leaders like Thomas Massie and we call on House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to include checkoff reform in the upcoming Farm Bill. We applaud Rep. Massie for his tireless work, tremendous leadership, and intestinal fortitude in standing up to Chinese interests and multinational conglomerates who continue to further consolidate American agriculture, said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets and Founder of the Wyoming Independent Cattlemens Association. If Agriculture Committee leaders want to get a Farm Bill done in 2024 theyd be wise to jettison any language that nullifies state and local agriculture laws and include a provision to reform USDAs swampy checkoff slush funds. We applaud Rep. Massie for his tremendous work to reform USDAs scandal-ridden checkoff programs. As a beef producer and cattleman, Massie understands how deep the corruption in Washingtons swampy checkoff slush funds runs, said Marty Irby, President & CEO at Competitive Markets Action and Board Secretary at the Organization for Competitive Markets. Massie has seen first-hand how the National Cattlemen's Beef Association lobbied against the best interests of American family farmers who pay into the till and the terrible repercussions from checkoff dollars being used to lobby for the repeal of Country-of-Origin-Labeling and other policies that continue to put our farmers out of business. As a proud American and lifelong producer, I proudly applaud Rep. Massie for being committed to defeating Big Ags Chinese and Brazilian backers that threaten our food supply, said Jonathan Buttram, Treasurer at the Organization for Competitive Markets, and President of the Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association. The industrial agriculture mafia is petrified of our work with Rep. Massie because they see the writing on the wall and we hope they soon meet the same fate as New Yorks infamous Five Families. OCM and CMA also conducted its third fly-in since July of 2023 to Washington, D.C. this month and engaged in nearly 90 meetings in support of the OFF Act, checkoff reform, and against the EATS Act, H.R. 4417/S. 2019, during those events. The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The foundation of the Organization for Competitive Markets is to fight for competitive markets in agriculture for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. True competition reduces the need for economic regulation. Our mission, and our duty, is to define and advocate the proper role of government in the agricultural economy as a regulator and enforcer of rules necessary for markets that are fair, honest, accessible and competitive for all citizens. Competitive Markets Action (CMA) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit based in Washington, D.C., that was formed with the mission of shaping policy to promote more regenerative and sustainable agriculture, and competitive markets in the U.S., and to defend against attacks on states rights by the federal government. CMA works to raise awareness of the harm caused by multinational conglomerates to the American family farmer, the consumer and our U.S. economy as a whole in an effort to bring about legislative and regulatory reforms. Attachment Indianapolis, IN, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Butler University is launching a new collaborative approach to professional education tailored specifically to meet the demands of a challenging and constantly evolving workforce. Designed to revolutionize professional learning across a variety of industries, the new organizational unit dubbed Butler+ focuses on guiding and empowering individuals to continue their careers while simultaneously building a robust professional network at the local, regional, and national level strategically intended to support continued growth. Butler+ will become the new centralized hub for all online, graduate, and professional education programs at Butler University and serve as the digital front door for students and employers looking to discover extended-access education solutions for the next stage of their career(s). With Indianapolis and Indiana on an economic ascent, Butler+ is committed to cultivating qualified talent to match increased demand across a variety of practice verticals. Through Butler+, we are focused on reinvigorating individuals interested in continuing their education, offering them opportunities to control their career trajectory. Simultaneously, we aim to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and industry expertise in crucial areas that our communities need to prosper, stated Julie Straub, Senior Executive Director, Butler+. By creating more pathways to high-quality credential certifications and degrees for educators, childcare providers, business innovators, entrepreneurs, cybersecurity and insurance providers, as well as health and wellness providers, Butler+ will not only change the lives of students but also the trajectory of Indianas workforce. This initiative is a bold step towards building a prosperous state and positively impacting the workforce, one student at a time. The key differentiators of Butler+: 1. Demand-Driven Curriculum: Butler+ features more than 25 competitive degree options, 15 professional education offerings, 100 custom programs and seven certificates. With a wide range of learning options, including online, on-campus and collaborative workshops and seminars, students can fully customize their learning experience to fit their schedule without sacrificing the impact of experiential learning for high-demand opportunities. 2. Stackable and Cyclical Programs: Designed to meet the needs of lifelong learners, Butler+ takes a fully custom and strategic approach to providing valuable continuing education. From postsecondary credential attainment, workforce readiness, employee engagement, and postsecondary acceleration to learner pathways and data-driven decision-making, Butler+ is creating impactful programs for industry leaders of today and tomorrow. 3. Next-Level Industry Connections and Partnerships: Butler+ recognizes the importance of building a strong professional network. By leveraging Butler Universitys extensive network of industry, government, and non-governmental organization partners, the Butler+ curriculum is designed to meet the needs of an evolving job market. This approach provides students with access to industry-leading experts and thought leaders, ensuring they gain invaluable insights and practical knowledge that can be immediately applied in their professional endeavors. To further showcase the scale and impact of this announcement, Butler+ has garnered immense support from key partners within the Indianapolis market, that through this launch will make a sizable impact and bring to life custom programs on a much larger scale. Partners include but are not limited to The Indiana Society for Association Executives, Serve Indiana, Indiana Association of Restaurant and Lodging, Prospanica Indiana, Association of Internal Management Consultants, Hylant, and Community Health. My expectations of the Butler Data Literacy program were exceeded from day one. At Community (Community Health Network), we have seen a significant increase in data literacy amongst the individuals that have completed the program and with the completion of each cohort, a significant increase in additional caregivers excited to take the next course offering! stated Lindsay Wahl, Community Health Network. About Butler+: Delivered by Butler University, Butler+ is a collaborative approach to professional education. With online, on-campus, and custom programs tailored to fit ever-evolving industry demands and the needs of lifelong students, Butler+ features a growing portfolio of Butlers graduate, online, and professional education programs. Offerings include more than 25 undergraduate and graduate degree options, 15 professional education offerings, 100 custom programs, and seven certifications. Butler+ is designed for individuals and organizations that believe learning never ceases, and are seeking more than a degree. Butler+ is a flexible and innovative professional learning experience that offers dynamic partnership models and creates networking opportunities in an immersive, future-focused learning environment. Find your next with Butler+. Butler+ media contact: Mark Apple: mapple1@butler.edu. About Butler University: Based in Indianapolisone of the heartlands largest and most dynamic citiesButler University is a nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing six colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,100 graduate students are enrolled at Butler, representing 48 states, two U.S. territories, and 31 countries. A Butler education is focused on giving students the tools they need to excel personally and professionally, as demonstrated by the Universitys 98 percent placement rate within six months of graduation. Butler University is the No. 1 ranked regional university in the Midwest, according to the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, in addition to being included in The Princeton Reviews annual best colleges'' guidebook. Attachment February 20 - - Jervois Global Ltd. ("Jervois" or the "Company") (ASX: JRV) (TSX-V: JRV) (OTCQB: JRVMF) advises its executives will attend BMO Capital Markets' 33rd Global Metals, Mining and Critical Minerals Conference in Hollywood, Florida, United States ("U.S."), from 25 to 28 February 2024. Chief Executive Officer Mr. Bryce Crocker will deliver an investor presentation in Ballroom C at 4.45pm U.S. Eastern Time on Tuesday 27 February 2024. The presentation will be both live streamed and available for viewing afterward at https://app.webinar.net/nb8KAx2lOD1, as well as on Jervois's website at https://jervoisglobal.com/investors/media. In addition to the presentation, Mr. Crocker, together with Chief Financial Officer Mr. James May, will host institutional investor, government and customer 1-1 meetings across the conference. On behalf of Jervois Bryce Crocker, CEO For further information, please contact: Investors and analysts: Alicia Brown Group Manager - External Affairs Jervois Global alicia.brown@jervoisglobal.com Media: Nathan Ryan NWR Communications nathan.ryan@nwrcommunications.com.au Mob: +61 420 582 887 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. Trading Symbol: TSXV: NAR VANCOUVER, Feb. 20, 2024 - North Arrow Minerals Inc. (TSXV: NAR) ("North Arrow") has closed its previously announced agreement granting Springbok Holdings Inc. ("Springbok") a 2% diamond royalty on North Arrow's 100% owned LDG Project in the Northwest Territories. In exchange, Springbok has waived its right to receive a future $1 million share payment from North Arrow, which could have been triggered as early as this year if exploration proceeds as planned at newly discovered spodumene pegmatites on the property. The royalty will apply only to future diamond production and will not apply to other commodities, including lithium. North Arrow may purchase 1% of the royalty (reducing the royalty from 2% to 1%) by making a single payment of $2 million at any time up to 24 months after the date on which the first royalty payment is due. Dr. Chris Jennings, a director of North Arrow, is a principal of Springbok. Further details related to the agreement can be found in North Arrow news release dated February 5, 2024. Any transaction with an insider constitutes a "related party transaction", as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the royalty is less than 25% of North Arrow's market capitalization. About North Arrow Minerals North Arrow is a Canadian based exploration company focused on the identification and evaluation of lithium and other exploration opportunities in Canada. North Arrow's management, board of directors and advisors have significant successful experience in the global exploration and mining industry. North Arrow is evaluating spodumene pegmatites at its 100% owned LDG, MacKay, and DeStaffany Lithium Projects (NWT), is exploring for lithium in Nunavut at the Bathurst Inlet pegmatite field and continues work to identify additional lithium exploration opportunities in northern Canada. North Arrow also owns interests in the Naujaat (NU), Pikoo (SK), and Loki (NWT) Diamond Projects and maintains a 100% interest in the Hope Bay Oro Gold Project, located approximately 3 km north of Agnico Eagle's Doris Gold Mine, Nunavut. North Arrow's exploration programs are conducted under the direction of Kenneth Armstrong, P.Geo. (NWT/NU, ON), President and CEO of North Arrow and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Armstrong has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this press release. North Arrow Minerals Inc. /s/ "Kenneth A. Armstrong" Kenneth Armstrong President and CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains "forward-looking statements" including but not limited to statements with respect to North Arrow's plans, the estimation of a mineral resource and the success of exploration activities. Forward-looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the successful integration of acquisitions; risks related to general economic and market conditions; closing of financing; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; actual results of proposed exploration activities; possible variations in mineral resources or grade; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes, title disputes, claims and limitations on insurance coverage and other risks of the mining industry; changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations. Although North Arrow has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. North Arrow undertakes no obligation or responsibility to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law. SOURCE North Arrow Minerals Inc. A pair of German tourists were sent on a wild adventure through remote Australia after Google Maps led them astray. Authorities say the young travellers are "lucky to be alive" after they were directed down a dirt track and became bogged. The men were left marooned in a Queensland national park without mobile phone reception for more than a week after they set out on February 4 from Cairns. They were attempting to drive 765 km to Bamaga on the northern tip of Cape York in a four-wheel-drive when Google Maps directed them off course. Unable to call for help, friends Philipp Mayer, 20, and Marcel Schoene, 25, abandoned their vehicle and reportedly walked 60 km carrying 12kg backpacks. Despite having the use of a drone to try and find nearby roads the men said it was "very hard" to escape the wilderness, and trek to the nearby town of Coen. Philipp (left) and Marcel (right) trekked through remote Queensland for a week after their vehicle became bogged. Source: Supplied/DES German tourist reveals 'horror' moments during week-long ordeal Speaking with Yahoo News, Philipp revealed the pair survived by cooking their stores of pasta and rice, but he still lost 5 kg during the ordeal. "The first time we cooked pasta with tomato sauce, but the second day was so hot, it was too ugly to eat," he said. During their adventure, the men endured "horrible" storms and intense heat, and faced up to crocodiles and wild pigs. But the most frightening encounters were with an unlikely animal. "During the night we were afraid of the big bulls because they were standing on the street and didn't let us through. We had to wait for 15 minutes until they went away," Philipp said. Reflecting on the adventure from the comforts of his room in Sydney, Philipp said he's decided not to trust Google Maps again, and he's learned one key thing about travelling in Australia. "The weather had been quite clear and dry the last few days before we set off, so we thought let's try it, but I've learned that nature is stronger and bigger than us," he said. Story continues We actually didn't believe that there were crocodiles until we saw one.Philipp Mayer The tourists used a drone to help navigate out of the national park. Source: Supplied/DES Warning not to trust navigational devices in remote areas Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) ranger Roger James described the conditions around Oyala Thumotang National Park as oppressive. Although they had supplies and a shelter for sleeping, they are extremely lucky to be alive, he added. The men were travelling along Peninsula Developmental Road which is the main route to Cape York, when they were diverted down Langi Track and into the national park. According to NPWS it's not the first time Google Maps has diverted unwitting motorists off the road and into wilderness. The men encountered "horrible" conditions during their trek out of the national park to the town of Coen. Source: Supplied/DES People should not trust Google Maps when theyre travelling in remote regions of Queensland, and they need to follow the signs, use official maps or other navigational devices, James said. National parks in Cape York can be unforgiving, and people need to ensure they have all the survival essentials, and they must be prepared for a stranding incident. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Vancouver, February 20, 2024 - Element79 Gold Corp. (CSE:ELEM) (OTC:ELMGF) (FSE:7YS) ("Element79 Gold", the "Company") Vancouver - is pleased to announce that today it has filed its annual financial statements in respect of its year ended August 31, 2023, its management discussion and analysis relating to its annual financial statements, and the CEO and CFO certifications (collectively, the "Required Documents"). The Filings are available on SEDAR+ as well as the CSE website. As previously announced, the Company was under a voluntary management cease trade order ("MCTO") for failure to file its annual financials and the required documents and it will remain in default until it completes the filing of its Q1 Interim Financial statements for the period ended November 30, 2024 along with the management discussion and analysis, and the interim CEO and CFO certifications. The Company intends to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines in accordance with National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203") by issuing bi-weekly default status reports in the form of news releases until the situation is satisfactorily rectified. For corporate matters, please contact: James C. Tworek, Chief Executive Officer Email: jt@element79.gold For investor relations inquiries, please contact: Investor Relations Department Phone: +1 (403)850.8050 Email: investors@element79.gold Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. Rio Tinto announces that Simon McKeon will step down as a Non-Executive Director at the conclusion of the Rio Tinto Ltd. annual general meeting on 2 May 2024. Over the course of 2023, we announced the appointments of five new Non-Executive Directors as we continue to refresh the composition of the Board. As part of that phased transition, Simon McKeon has agreed to step down as a Director at the conclusion of our annual general meetings in 2024, and will not therefore seek re-election by shareholders. Rio Tinto Chair Dominic Barton said, "I am extremely grateful to Simon for his invaluable contribution. Having regard for his roles as Rio Tinto Ltd.'s Senior Independent Director and the Designated Director for workforce engagement, Simon has taken a particular interest in Rio Tinto's revitalised approach to engagement with the broader Australian community as well as the company's cultural reset. On behalf of the Board, I wish him well for the future." This announcement is made in fulfilment of the Company's obligation under UK LR 9.6.11. LEI: 213800YOEO5OQ72G2R82 Classification: 3.1. Additional regulated information required to be disclosed under the laws of a Member State. This announcement is authorised for release to the market by Andy Hodges, Rio Tinto's Group Company Secretary. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220871905/en/ Contact Please direct all enquiries to media.enquiries@riotinto.com Media Relations, United Kingdom Matthew Klar M +44 7796 630 637 David Outhwaite M +44 7787 597 493 Media Relations, Australia Matt Chambers M +61 433 525 739 Jesse Riseborough M +61 436 653 412 Alyesha Anderson M +61 434 868 118 Michelle Lee M +61 458 609 322 Media Relations, Americas Simon Letendre M +1 514 796 4973 Malika Cherry M +1 418 592 7293 Vanessa Damha M +1 514 715 2152 Investor Relations, United Kingdom Menno Sanderse M +44 7825 195 178 David Ovington M +44 7920 010 978 Laura Brooks M +44 7826 942 797 Investor Relations, Australia Tom Gallop M +61 439 353 948 Amar Jambaa M +61 472 865 948 Rio Tinto plc 6 St James's Square London SW1Y 4AD United Kingdom T +44 20 7781 2000 Registered in England No. 719885 Rio Tinto Ltd. Level 43, 120 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 Australia T +61 3 9283 3333 Registered in Australia ABN 96 004 458 404 riotinto.com Category: General VANCOUVER, Feb. 20, 2024 - Alaska Energy Metals Corp. (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: AKEMF) ("AEMC" or the "Company") announces that, subject to TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") Approval, it has extended marketing contracts with two service providers and entered into new contracts with two other providers. In accordance with TSX-V Policy 3.4 - Investor Relations, Promotional and Market-Making Activities, details of each new engagement or renewal are discussed below. Virtus Media Group LLC ("Virtus") Further to the Company's news release of November 6, 2023, the Company has renewed its engagement of Virtus to provide content creation and digital marketing services for a renewed period of 1.5 months, commencing in February 2024 until March 2024 for a total cost of USD $75,000 (approximately CAD$101,737), which shall be paid upfront. The services rendered by Virtus will include Reddit distributions, featured editorials, influencer videos, social media posts and live Discord community events, industry deep dives, and educational posts. Virtus is an Illinois-based company that is headed by CEO Austin Wynn. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, Virtus (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to Virtus as compensation for its marketing services. For more information on the Company's engagement of Virtus, please refer to its news release of November 6, 2023. Black Swan Solutions Inc. DBA VHLA Media ("VHLA") The Company has retained VHLA to provide content creation and digital and video marketing services for an anticipated period of three months, commencing on or around March 1, 2024, for a total cost of CAD $102,500 plus GST, which will be paid upfront to VHLA by the Company. VHLA will, as appropriate, prepare and distribute social media content & ads, influencer marketing, landing pages, and CEO interviews. VHLA is a British Columbia-based company headed by Dawson Ignatieff and Adam Emes. The promotional activity may occur on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, Reddit, as determined by the Company and VHLA. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, VHLA (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to VHLA as compensation for its marketing services. MMG Market Medium GmbH & Co. KG. ("MMG") Further to its news release on July 6, 2023 and January 23, 2024, the Company has amended its previously announced renewed Marketing Services Contract with MMG through an Amending Agreement (the "MMG Amending Agreement"). Pursuant to the terms of the MMG Amending Agreement, the Company will provide MMG a marketing expenditure budget of 350,000 (approximately CAD $509,000) for its renewed MMG term, instead of the previously contemplated marketing expenditure budget of 150,000. Of the 350,000 marketing budget, MMG shall retain a service fee for the extended term of the Marketing Service Contract of 15% of the total marketing expenditure budget (approximately 52,500 or CAD$76,723). MMG is a service provider in the field of online marketing and investor relations services specializing in the European market and is based in Germany. MMG will provide German-translated text materials, including text and display advertisements, advertorials with Company-provided publicly disclosed information, and general information on the nickel and battery metals sector. The firm will create specialized and structured campaigns and ad groups, optimize online advertising for detailed keyword research, and identify possible target groups of potential shareholders. For more information about the Company's engagement of MMG, please refer to its news releases dated July 6, 2023, December 8, 2023, and January 23, 2024. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, MMG (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to MMG as compensation for its marketing service. Sydney Knight The Company has retained a Vancouver, British Columbia-based individual named Sydney Knight to provide investor relations services such as attending marketing events and conferences on behalf of the Company, handling prospective investor inquiries, and building relationships with prospective investors commencing on or around February 20, 2024 until December 31, 2024. Ms. Knight shall be paid a monthly fee of $3,000. Additionally, Ms. Knight shall be granted 75,000 stock options within 30 days following her appointment. The stock options will have a vesting schedule in accordance with TSX-V Policy 4.4 - Security Based Compensation and will have a term of five (5) years and a strike price equal to the market closing price on the date of issuance As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, Ms. Knight does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. Besides the aforementioned stock options, the Company will not issue any securities to Ms. Knight as compensation for her services. For additional information, visit: https://alaskaenergymetals.com/ ABOUT ALASKA ENERGY METALS Alaska Energy Metals Corp. 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 near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the Nikolai Nickel 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 developing the Angliers 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 (a) AEMC will obtain TSX-V approval for the marketing and investor awareness engagements (b) the terms and timelines of the second round of the investor awareness campaign will proceed as originally contemplated. 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. Vancouver, February 21, 2024 - - Emergent Metals Corp. ("Emergent" or the "Company") (TSXV:EMR) announces that it has further expanded its New York Canyon Property ("New York Canyon" or the "Property" in Nevada by acquiring 6 unpatented lode claims (the "Yorkie Claims") from Western Geoscience Inc. ("WGI"). The Property now consists of 21 patented claims and 792 unpatented mining claims totaling about 16,000 acres (6,500 hectares). Located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Hawthorne, New York Canyon hosts copper skarn and porphyry exploration targets including Longshot Ridge, Copper Queen, Champion, and Emma. Emergent has acquired the claims for US$66,000 ($US$12,000 paid to WGI with six additional monthly payments of US$9,000 due February 15, 2024 (paid) and continuing through July 15, 2024). In addition, Emergent will grant WGI a 2% Net Smelter Royalty ("NSR") on the claims capped at US$1,750,000. David Watkinson, President and CEO of Emergent stated, "Addition of the Yorkie Claims finalizes the consolidation of a major land position at the New York Canyon Property, hosting multiple copper exploration targets with a very low acquisition cost. The Yorkie Claims are just south of Lahontan Gold Corp.'s (TSXV: LG) Santa Fe Project, which hosts the past producing Santa Fe Gold Mine. The Yorkie claims also have potential to host gold mineralization as well as base metals." About Emergent Emergent is a gold and base metal exploration company focused on Nevada and Quebec. The Company's strategy is to look for quality acquisitions, add value to these assets through exploration, and monetize them through sale, joint ventures, option, royalty, and other transactions to create value for our shareholders (an acquisition and divestiture business model). In Nevada, Emergent's Golden Arrow Property is an advanced stage property with a well-defined measured and indicated gold and silver resource. The New York Canyon Property is a copper skarn, copper porphyry, and gold exploration property south of and abutting the past producing Santa Fe Gold Mine. The Mindora Property (aka West Santa Fe Property) is a gold, silver, and base metal property located twelve miles from the Santa Fe Gold Mine and optioned to Lahontan Gold Corp. (TSXV:LG). Buckskin Rawhide East is a gold and silver property leased to Rawhide Mining LLC, operators of the Rawhide Mine. Emergent also owns the Buckskin Rawhide West and Koegel Rawhide properties, two early-stage gold and silver projects located near Rawhide Mine. In Quebec, the Casa South Property is a large gold exploration property adjacent to and south of Hecla Mining Corporation's (NYSE:HL) operating Casa Berardi Mine with multiple exploration targets identified. The Trecesson Property, located about 50 km north of the Val d'Or mining camp, has three gold exploration targets with multiple high-grade (>10 g/t) gold intercepts from historic and recent drilling. Also in Quebec, Emergent has a 1% NSR in the Troilus North Property, part of the feasibility stage Troilus Mine Property being explored by Troilus Gold. Emergent also has a 1% NSR in the East-West Property, owned by O3 Mining and part of their feasibility stage Marban Alliance Property. Note that the location of Emergent's properties adjacent to producing or past producing mines does not guarantee exploration success at Emergent's properties or that mineral resources or reserves will be delineated. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's website at www.emergentmetals.com or view the Company's filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. On behalf of the Board of Directors David G. Watkinson, P.Eng. President & CEO For further information please contact: David G. Watkinson, P.Eng. Tel: 530-271-0679 Ext 101 Email: info@emergentmetals.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Without limiting the foregoing, such forward-looking information includes statements regarding the process and completion of the Offering, the use of proceeds of the Offering and any statements regarding the Company's business plans, expectations and objectives. In this news release, words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "likely", "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "plan", "estimate" and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking information. Forward looking information should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, such future performance will be achieved. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or the Company management's good faith belief with respect to future events and is subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking information made in this news release, see the Company's most recent Management's Discussion and Analysis and financial statements and other documents filed by the Company with the Canadian securities commissions and the discussion of risk factors set out therein. Such documents are available at www.sedar.com under the Company's profile and on the Company's website at www.emergentmetals.com. The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. The test days in Bahrain, where Max Verstappen is driving his RB20, are in full swing. In a week and a half, the Bahrain Grand Prix will be held, and only then will we really know how Verstappen's and Perez's car is doing. Verstappen reveals to Viaplay that he is not yet concerned with the final results. Asked if Verstappen is in good shape, he replied. "'Normally', of course that's not how it works in Formula 1. You know, I don't even think about that. I just want to go to Bahrain, do my thing, and if the car is fast, it's fast. And if the car is fastest, then it's fastest, and then we'll win the race," explained the down-to-earth driver. Verstappen is in top form The 26-year-old driver can reassure his fans, though. Asked if everyone is in top form, he answers decisively. "Yes, absolutely! Everyone is very motivated, everyone is I think also happy with what we did in the winter. Of course, time will tell if it's enough compared to the other teams." Article continues under ad "Of course I am always strict with myself, but I never set real goals before I go into the season," Verstappen reveals. "Of course, the most important thing is to compete for the title, and then it doesn't really matter if you win all the races, or just enough races to become champion." A boat full of tourists got more of a show than they bargained for during a tour off Australias coast over the weekend. The group were basking in the sun after their adventure with Ningaloo Whaleshark Swim off Exmouth in Western Australia when the skipper noticed a slithery looking coil on the surface of the water. After inching closer, the twisted mass was revealed to be two sea snakes mating. A group of tourists got quite the surprise when they came across two mating sea snakes off Exmouth in WA. Source: Jazsea Imagery/Ningaloo Whaleshark Swim Once the male is inside the female, he is stuck until mating is complete a tricky situation when youre an air breather, the organisation posted on its Facebook page. The female will usually time when to come up for air and the male will have to try and grab a quick breath too. Incredible images taken by underwater photographer Jasmin show the two large snakes wrapped around each other in the ocean as a crowd of admirers watched on from the vessel. One of the reptiles can be seen lifting its head above water to breathe. Aussies reacting to the scenic photos online were clearly left in awestruck by Mother Nature. This is just amazing, mother nature is amazing. Seriously great photos, one person said. Man you think they would be able to get some privacy there another joked. Mating is 'tricky' for sea snakes given they need to breathe air with their lungs. Source: Jazsea Imagery/Ningaloo Whaleshark Swim Tour group 'so lucky' to witness sea snakes Veterinary anatomy expert Dr Glenn Shea told Yahoo News the photos show mating Stokes' Sea Snakes (Hydrophis stokesii) Australia's most bulky sea snake for which he confirmed mating is a tricky business. [They] have to return to the surface to breathe frequently, and also have to grip each other for mating in an aquatic environment (hence the tangled mass), he explained. So it can be difficult to gain access to the surface while still remaining entangled. Instructor for the Australian reptile Academy Dr Christina Zdenek agreed, telling Yahoo it is true that sea snakes which give birth to live young dont have gills, so they need to breathe air with their lungs. Story continues But 30 minute dives are not uncommon, with a maximum dive time of two hours recorded, she added. Dr Shea said observations of mating sea snakes are important records as very little is known about reproduction in many species. WIRES reptile specialist Gary Pattinson told Yahoo the tourists are so lucky to have witnessed the utterly stunning animals in their natural habitat. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales. Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold6, expected to be announced in late July alongside the Flip6, could sport the biggest design changes in years. According to prolific (and often right) tipster Ice Universe, the Fold6 will have a wider cover screen than any of its predecessors. Not as wide as the Pixel Fold's, mind you, but still wider than the very narrow ones fitted to the series so far. From now on, my Galaxy Z Fold6 leak is absolutely accurate, not based on patent drawings and other sources. First of all: the design of Fold6 is more square. ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) February 20, 2024 This would fix one of the main pain points people have had over the years with the Galaxy Fold line, and so it would be very welcome. Along with this, the shape of the phone will be more square, with more squared-off corners. Galaxy Z Fold 6 is not as wide as the patent picture, but it is also relatively wide, and the screen R angle is close to the right angle. If you look for a mobile phone for analogy, it is more like the screen R angle of Nubia Z60 Ultra.And the middle frame is similar, which is a pic.twitter.com/wWKCM0teMb ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) February 20, 2024 Ice Universe says the closest corners to the Fold6's can be found on the nubia Z60 Ultra. The angle of the curvature of the corners is almost a right angle. Additionally, the Fold6's frame will be very flat as well, again, similarly to the nubia Z60 Ultra's. A retail expert is calling on customers to stop shopping at Woolworths after an Aussie mother of twins slammed the supermarket giant for its "frustrating" home delivery service, which she says often sees grocery items forgotten or left out of orders because of limited stock. You can't be offering a service and then not follow through, Professor Roberta Crouch from the College of Business, Government and Law at Flinders University told Yahoo News Australia. And consumers don't have to put up with it. The field is far too competitive for Woolworths or anybody else to be providing this crap service, quite frankly. Eliza said she's been getting groceries delivered by Woolies since her 16-month-old twins were born but she's over their 'frustrating service'. Source: TikTok Their mistake, they should deliver it Eliza is mum to 16-month-old twins, a boy and girl and since her babies were born shes been getting her groceries delivered because its hugely convenient and much easier for the family. And for the most part, its been a good experience. Sometimes things dont always go right and theres weird product substitutions, or its not the exact fruit and vegetable I would have picked, but I sort of just live with that because its part of the delivery experience, she told her followers on TikTok this week. But what s***s me the most with Woolworths delivery is when they miss an entire bag or several bags and they wont re-deliver. They always offer to give you a refund but I dont want a refund, I just want my items delivered. I need these groceries. Eliza said it defeats the whole purpose of getting your things delivered. Instead I have to go out to the shops and purchase the items that were missing, she complained. Which is really inconvenient because I would have just done my whole grocery shop in person if that was going to be the end result. Story continues I feel like, if its their mistake, they should deliver it. Elizas followers were quick to agree. If I'm paying a premium for delivery, I'm not paying to then drive to the shops again! one person commented on the video, which has been viewed more than 4,700 times. If it's their mistake then they should fix it up, said another. While someone else said the click and collect service wasnt any better. I live an hour away and Ive driven home three times before and then realised theyve missed half my order, they wrote online. Woolworths defends personal shoppers Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, a spokesperson for Woolworths said the supermarket giant has a dedicated team of personal shoppers who work hard to handpick thousands of online orders to the highest standard every day. While our teams work hard to provide a great experience every time, we don't always get substitutions right, or, selected items may be out of stock, they said. We encourage customers to contact us directly should something be amiss with their order so we can rectify it as quickly as possible. Woolworths also noted that customers can chose to turn on or off substitute products when shopping online. Consumers have power As far as Professor Crouch is concerned, it's another example of these organisations that are busy not looking after their core business. When you have someone like this young woman, who has got two little kids, it's major for her to go out to the store and pick up groceries, she said. If this is an ongoing experience for her, then she needs to swap supermarkets, because as she rightfully says it's about the fact that she now has to get in her car and go and get the stuff, and if she has to do that, she might as well have done that for the whole shop in the first place. I just think she shouldnt have to put up with it, and consumers have more power than that. Professor Crouch urged shoppers to find other options where people might value their business a bit more. Don't let your loyalty lead you to take less than what you're paying for because you don't need to be loyal to that degree, she explained. There are other alternatives." We all love to be brand loyal because it saves us this cognitive work... and nobody turns their back on a brand that's been good to them because they got it wrong once. But if it becomes a pattern and they're not fulfilling their main promise, then you've got to cut them loose and find somebody else who will. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Xiaomi and Leica set up an optical institute to co-develop smartphone cameras Xiaomi and Leica join forces in building the world's most advanced optical institute for smartphone technologies. It's called Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute and the two companies will share expertise in building a complete product that involves not only smartphone camera optics but also computational photography and AI. The institute will focus on four major technical factors that make a cameraphone great - ultra-precision optical lenses in a small form factor suitable for smartphones, computational photography, establishing strict optical standards for lenses and research and development of optoelectronic technologies. The upcoming Xiaomi 14 Ultra flagship is the next smartphone to incorporate the latest and greatest from Xiaomi and Leica's collaboration and marks the beginning of more advanced research in the field. The two companies plan to build three labs in Beijing with more than 200 experts, led by Peter Karbe, a legendary optical designer behind Leica's fourth-generation lenses. Source The possibility of three more months of $100 power bill credits is back on the table, after a hiccup at the Guam Legislature earlier this week. After 18 months of residents getting $100 off their monthly power bills, funding for the Ayuda Prugraman Ayuda Para I Taotao-ta Energy Credit ran out in December. Sen. Will Parkinsons Bill 208-37 would provide the credit for three more months, at a cost of $15.8 million. Speaker Therese Terlaje on Wednesday certified that there is an urgent need for the measure to be placed on the agenda of the ongoing legislative session, even as Bill 208-37 has yet to go through a required public hearing, or have a committee report detailing testimony for and against the bill prepared. Parkinson earlier this week failed to put the bill on the session agenda, so lawmakers could debate and ultimately vote to pass or reject the power bill credit extension. Concerns were raised over the lack of a public hearing, and the availability of funds. With Terlaje waiving the need for a public hearing, the measure can be addressed. Despite issues, the people of Guam need urgent relief from the recently announced steep increase in (Guam Power Authority) power bills which threatens their welfare and threatens to exacerbate poverty in Guam, the speaker stated in her waiver. A recently approved GPA rate hike will see the average customers bill for February and beyond go up by about $30.85. There should be enough money to fund the power bill credits, Jason Baza, a budget and management analyst supervisor for the Bureau of Budget and Management Research, told lawmakers during discussion on Wednesday. According to latest reports from BBMR, GovGuam collected about $17.3 million more in taxes and fees than it projected as of Jan. 31. The measure had yet to be placed on session agenda as of Wednesday. Lawmakers will reconvene at 8:30 a.m. Thursday. The Civil Service Commission on Tuesday voted against a reconsideration of its previous decision to dismiss the case of a firefighter who believes he should have been promoted in 2023, with the commission standing firm on the 180-day limit for resolving post-audit complaints. The vote was 3-1. A firefighter with the Guam Fire Department asked the commission to reconsider its January decision to dismiss his post-audit complaint. Firefighter II John Anthony Muna filed a complaint in April 2023 after being denied a promotion, alongside 32 other firefighters. GFD denied the promotion in January 2023. Muna believes he should have been promoted to a fire service specialist. Last month, the commission dismissed Munas complaint, citing the 180-day rule. Under the rule, the commission has 180 days after the complaint is filed to address a case. Christian Spotanski, Munas legal counsel, argued the firefighter complied with the 180-day CSC statute, saying the commission had a misapprehension and an apparent oversight of the judicial procedure, necessitating review or reconsideration. Mr. Muna filed his complaint well before 180 days. If we look at the recordwe had hearings that were conducted, we heard from management, we heard from Mr. Muna, said Spotanski. The CSC appears to be actively looking for the solution but before they can come up with one, they say, Our hands are tied, its been 180 days, sorry Mr. Muna, this is the end of the road. Spotanski outlined three things for the commission to assess Munas eligibility for reconsideration: existence of good cause, reasonable exercise of reconsideration, and timely request. For Spotanski, Muna ticked all the boxes. In the end, the motion to reconsider failed, receiving a 3-1 vote from the board of commissioners. The commissions counsel at one point during the hearing said Muna can file another complaint about GFDs denial of his promotion instead of demanding the commission to reconsider an expired complaint. Re-interview for promotion Fire Chief Joey San Nicolas, during Tuesdays hearing, said theres no guarantee on Munas promotion, but he proposed re-interviewing him and the other non-select firefighters. The best way to remedy this is to save those (33) promotions, re-interview Mr. Muna and the other candidates that were non-select from that certified list, then if Mr. Muna or the others make the cut, then I will backdate their promotion, the fire chief said. However, Spotanski said that the fire chiefs suggestion does not solve Munas problem, adding that he lost faith in GFDs merit system. I dont think the answer to that is to simply put Mr. Muna back into the promotion system. I think the answer to that is to look at it, the record, to look at the promotion board and decide, Oh, Mr. Muna was deserving of promotion, stated Spotanski. 180-day limit Spotanski noted that, based on a Superior Court case, the 180-day timeline should be considered procedural rather than substantive. He cited the Port Authority vs. CSC case, where an employees grievance faced an 11-month hearing delay. He said the court deemed the 180-day statute procedural, not substantive. However, Katherine Nepton, CSCs legal counsel, said the case that Spotanski brought up was an adverse action with a certain timeframe, in which the court bends to ensure employees have ample opportunity to be heard. In a post-audit, action can be taken, were done with the 180 days, that one gets wrapped up, somebody else can say, I still want this to be looked into and file a complaint, and we start over with the same issue, Nepton said. She added that once the 180-day period has passed, CSC loses jurisdiction, which means that it doesnt have the authority to issue directives or make decisions. So, for me, this statute is very clear, its 180 days, and were done. Spotanski mentioned CSCs postponement of multiple hearings last year consumed the employees allotted 180-day period for completing legal procedures, which resulted in the dismissal of the complaint. The commission, for one reason or another, postponed several hearings, not on the basis of Mr. Muna, but instead, maybe there was a quorum that wasnt able to meet, said Spotanski. And then the commission still wants to dismiss it past 180 days. That doesnt seem fundamentally fair, and substantively, it looks like a violation of Mr. Munas rights before the commission. San Nicolas said the commission failed to achieve quorum last year following Typhoon Mawar and the passing of a commission member. So, a lot of it really was on the CSCs side of the house, unable to achieve a quorum throughout last year, San Nicolas said. And so, thats what I believe exceeded the 180 days. Seven months after a state comptroller's audit found the Hannibal Fire Company's former treasurer stole $850,000, the department's former chief and his father have been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $20,000 from the volunteer agency. State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said Wednesday that former Hannibal Fire Chief Chris Emmons has been charged with third-degree grand larceny, first-degree offering a false instrument for filing and first-degree falsifying business records, all felonies. Emmons' father, Carl Emmons Sr., was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, a felony. According to the comptroller's office, Chris Emmons successfully pushed for the Hannibal Fire Company to build a go-kart track on its property. Emmons thought it would provide a revenue source for the department, replacing its bingo nights. The company paid $35,000 to establish Hannibal Kartway, which Emmons and his family operated from 2017 to 2022. The comptroller's office said revenue from race registration and pit fees were intended to benefit the Hannibal Fire Company, while other profits from concessions, membership dues, raffles and rentals, would support the maintenance and operation of the track. But auditors found Emmons allegedly kept the registration fees and did not deposit any revenue into Hannibal Kartway's bank account after 2020. He is accused of stealing $18,000. Carl Emmons Sr., who was involved in the operation of Hannibal Kartway and also had access to the track's bank account, allegedly stole $2,522.27. After the comptroller's auditors contacted him in late October 2022, Emmons closed the bank account and transferred the funds to his personal account. He then told auditors the track would be permanently shut down. "The Emmonses allegedly diverted money meant to protect their community to fund their hobbies and pocket the proceeds," DiNapoli said. "They will be held accountable for abusing their fire company and the community's trust." Oswego County District Attorney Anthony DiMartino, Jr.'s office is prosecuting the case. New York State Police assisted with the arrest of the Emmonses. Carl Emmons Sr. will appear in court on March 5, while Chris Emmons is scheduled to return to court on March 12. A spokesperson for the state comptroller's office confirmed this case is separate from an audit released in 2023 that found George Parry Jr., the longtime treasurer of the Hannibal Fire Company, stole more than $850,000 from 2014 to 2022. The thefts included checks Parry wrote to himself and the use of a company credit card for cash advances. He also used the card for personal expenses. Parry died in May 2022, a year before the comptroller's audit was released. Because of his death, the findings were not referred to law enforcement. Haiti - NOTICE : National essay competition on intellectual property, registrations open The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MCI), through its Directorate of Legal Affairs, launched, Monday February 19, 2024, the 2nd edition of the national legal essay competition on intellectual property. This competition is open to students in Law, Administration, Political Science and International Relations who have completed at least two (2) years in one of the universities in Haiti. Students who have been dismissed for more than three years are excluded. A document attesting to the status of the student and/or candidate must be attached to the file. Age limit for participation: 30 years. The theme chosen for this edition is: Industrial property, a tool for economic development: commercializing your ideas. Registrations: Download the registration form: https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/FORMULAIRE-DE-CANDIDATURE-concours-dissertation-2024.pdf Essays that do not comply with the submission rules will be rejected. Download the regulations for submitting dissertations: https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/REGLEMENT-concours-dissertation-2024.pdf An acknowledgment of receipt will be sent to each candidate as well as a communication on the results of the competition. Submission of dissertations: Students will submit their dissertations online to the address: daj@mci.gouv.ht along with their registration form and/or submission form. The file must be saved in Word or PDF format and named CONCOURS_MCI- PI_LAST NAMA_FIRST NAME. More information: Legal Affairs Department Such. : +509 29 15 14 55 Email: daj@mci.gouv.ht Calendar: Deadline: March 15, 2024 Essays received after this date will be refused. Publication of results: April 19, 2024 Awards ceremony: The winning texts will be announced on April 26, the date of celebration of World Intellectual Property Day. The winning essay will be posted online on the MCI website. 1st prize 200,000.00 gourdes + internship 2nd prize 150,000.00 gourdes + internship 3rd prize 100,000.00 gourdes + CONTACT course HL/ HaitiFree Haiti - News : Zapping... Digicel : Supply and maintenance blocked Jean Philippe Brun, General Manager Digicel Haiti informs "The blockages in Duchity prevent the supply and maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure in Grand'Anse. Communication is critical for everyone ! Solidarity is essential !" Sogebank launches an international VISA debit card On Tuesday February 20, 2024, the Sogebank Group officially launched an international VISA debit card. This non-personalized, VISA-approved card allows Sogebank customers to carry out transactions both in Haiti and abroad. It can also be used in all ATMs in Haiti and abroad. Former Minister Dellile reserved on the order of Judge Voltaire The former Minister of Justice, Me Lucmane Dellile, expresses reservations regarding Judge Voltaire's order and wonders perplexed about the absence of certain names expected, according to him, by public opinion, on the list of those charged referred to the Criminal Court. Cap-Haitien : A police officer killed Police officer Remy Cynce who was returning from the bank with his wife was shot and killed at the beginning of the week by individuals riding a motorcycle in Petite-Anse, at the eastern entrance of the town of Cap-Haitien. Before being mortally wounded, Remy Cynce had time to kill one of his attackers. His wife was injured in the hand. Fulbright programs launched The American Embassy in Haiti announces that the Fulbright programs for foreign students Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the university faculty development program Fulbright Faculty Development Program for the year academic year 2025-2026 are officially launched. Full details at : https://ht.usembassy.gov/education-culture/academic-professional-exchanges/ Renald Luberice indicted, rejects Judge Voltaires order Charged with complicity in the assassination of Jovenel Moise of whom he was a close collaborator, Renald Luberice rejects the order of judge Walter Wesser Voltaire https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41708-haiti-flash-51-people-indicted-in-the-assassination-of-the-president-including-martine-moise-claude-joseph-and-leon-charles-list.html which according to him was politically oriented. The former general secretary of the Council of Ministers blasts the investigating magistrate whom he accuses of being part of the same political group as Prime Minister Ariel Henry who, he says, was in contact with Joseph Felix Badio, one of the main accused. HL/ HaitiLibre Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On February 21, ZEEKR, the premium electric vehicle brand under Geely Auto, announced the all-new ZEEKR 001 model is set to hit the market on Feb. 27. Simultaneously, the automaker confirmed that the latest ZEEKR 001 model is available for hands-on experience at ZEEKR stores nationwide starting today. All-new ZEEKR 001; photo credit: ZEEKR In January 2024, the revamped ZEEKR 001 made its appearance in the 379th batch of the "Road Motor Vehicle Production Enterprise and Product Announcement" by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology ("MIIT"). As an annual upgrade version, the new model underwent significant adjustments, including the integration of a laser radar on the roof. Regarding the vehicle's dimensions, the ZEEKR 001 boasts a length, width, and height of 4,977mm, 1,999mm, 1,545/1,533 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,005mm. The front bumper features a redesigned triangular profile, now offering optional laser radar and an electric tow hook. Additionally, the model introduces fresh concealed door handles and a new petal-style wheel design, enhancing the car's sporty aesthetics. Moving to the rear, the through-type LED strip is complemented by a small ducktail spoiler, exuding a sense of strength. The lower fog light area adopts a triangular design, while other areas maintaining a harmonious visual appeal with minimal alterations. Internally, the new ZEEKR 001 retains its original design with minimal changes, focusing on incremental upgrades in details, such as the use of suede fabric on the wireless charging panel in the center console area. In terms of power, the all-new ZEEKR 001 offers two powertrain options: a single-motor version featuring a 310 kW electric motor, and a dual-motor version with a front motor producing 270 kW and a rear motor producing 310 kW. Notably, the vehicle will possess towing capabilities. Press release BOZEMAN U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development in Montana acting state director Jake Ceartin announced Tuesday that organizations with capacity to provide assistance to agricultural producers applying for Rural Energy for America Program grants can now apply for funding to facilitate these efforts. Agricultural producers are the backbone of rural and tribal economies in Montana but conceivably are at a disadvantage because they lack the capacity to access funding from programs like REAP, Ceartin said. This investment underscores USDAs continued commitment to rural small businesses by giving them the tools to access funding that will help them continue to grow and remain assets to their communities. The REAP Technical Assistance Grants Program funds organizations to support farmers and small business owners that apply for federal funds to install renewable energy systems. This program works together with REAP to create new economic opportunities, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and make energy more affordable for rural and Tribal small businesses and agricultural producers. USDA is making $16 million available through the REAP TA Grants Program. Eligible recipients include state, tribal or local governments, universities, electric cooperatives, utility companies, and for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Late last year, USDA Rural Development awarded $500,000 through this program to two Montana organizations: The Montana Department of Agriculture in Helena received a $250,000 REAP TA grant and will partner with 11 Montana Food and Agricultural Development Centers to provide direct technical assistance to agricultural producers and small businesses in distressed and disadvantaged rural and tribal communities. The National Center for Appropriate Technology in Butte received a $250,000 REAP TA grant to work with three development organizations in the state and provide outreach and direct technical assistance to applicants on Native American reservations. The expected outcome will improve operational economic sustainability through increased energy savings. During the last fiscal year which ended Sept. 30, 2023, Montana awarded more than $2.8 million in Rural Energy for America Program grants to 50 rural small businesses and agricultural producers so they could make energy efficiency improvements or install renewable energy systems. This years REAP TA applications must be submitted by 9:59 p.m. Mountain Time March 15, 2024. For additional information and submission details, people can see page 12815 of the Feb. 20, 2024, Federal Register. To learn more about the REAP TA grant program in Montana, contact Daniel Layton, Rural Business and Cooperative Services Program specialist, at [email protected]. USDA Rural Development provides grants, loans, and loan guarantees to support infrastructure improvements, business development, affordable housing, community facilities, and expand high-speed internet access in rural and Tribal areas. For more information, people can visit https://www.rd.usda.gov. Press release Havre Cub Scout Sam Malley reached a singular honor this year, selling more Scout popcorn than anyone in the state. Each fall, local Cub Scouts and ScoutBSA scouts sell popcorn as a fundraiser to support their scouting adventures. The local scouts are part of the Hi-Line District, which includes Liberty County, Hill County, Blaine County and the Northern part of Choteau County. The Hi-Line District is one of 12 districts that make up the Montana Council. All of these are part of the Boy Scouts of America program. Cub Scout Sam Malley, of Pack 4426, was not only the top popcorn seller in the Hi-Line District but also the entirety of Montana. Sam sold a staggering $10,337. This was $104 more than runner up C.J. Simpson of the Lewis and Clark District out of Great Falls and $314.00 more than the third-place seller, Zachary Rubich of the Black Otter District out of Billings. The previous year, which was Sam's first year in scouting, he was the Hi-Line District's top seller with more than $4,000 in sales. Thus, Sam as sold more than $14,000 in his first two years. Sam is the son of the Jeremy and Lee Ann Malley. Cub Scout Pack 4426 is chartered by St. Jude Thaddeus Church. MSU News Service BOZEMAN Montana State University Extensions Pesticide Education Program and participating MSU Extension offices will offer multiple introductory training opportunities for pesticide applicators in February and March. Initial private applicator trainings Initial private applicator trainings are seven-hour trainings for individuals to learn more about pesticides while qualifying for a Montana private applicator license. A private applicator license allows individuals to apply restricted-use pesticides on land they own, rent or lease to grow an agricultural commodity. Homeowners and non-licensed applicators who wish to learn more about pesticides are also welcome, as are recertifying private applicators. Each program covers integrated pest management; pesticides in the environment; safety and toxicity; pesticide law; calibration of spray equipment; the private applicator license and how to read a pesticide product label. An ungraded exam will also be required if individuals wish to obtain a private applicator license. Event details Fees listed below cover the cost of the event and materials only. Those pursuing a private applicator license must also pay a license fee to the Montana Department of Agriculture, which varies by district. Applicators seeking recertification may attend initial private applicator trainings for credits as listed below. Initial private applicator trainings will be held as follows: Wednesday, Feb. 28: Choteau, Teton County Courthouse Annex, 19 Main Ave. S. Registration is encouraged by Feb. 26, and walk-ins are welcome. To register, contact Jamie Smith at 406-466-2491 or [email protected]. Cost is $20 for those attending for a license and is free if attending for credits or education only. Lunch is provided. Three pesticide applicator credits will be offered in both the morning and afternoon sessions. Tuesday, March 5: Culbertson, Dry Prairie Rural Water, 5808 Montana Highway 16. Registration is encouraged by March 1, and walk-ins are welcome. To register, contact Wendy Becker at 406-787-5312 or [email protected]. Free to attend. Lunch will be provided. Three pesticide applicator credits will be offered in both the morning and afternoon sessions. Wednesday, March 6: Glendive, Yellowstone River Inn, 1903 N. Merrill Ave. Registration is encouraged by March 1. To register, contact Gabby Sexton at 406-377-4277 or [email protected]. Cost is $20 for those attending for a license and $10 for others. Lunch will be provided. Pesticide applicator credits are to be announced. Tuesday, March 12: Ronan, Ronan Community Center meeting room, 300 Third Ave. NW. Registration is encouraged by March 8, and walk-ins are welcome. To register, contact Taylor Mullen at 406-676-4271 or [email protected]. Cost is $50, and lunch will be provided. Pesticide applicator credits are to be announced. Wednesday, March 20: Thompson Falls, Thompson Falls Rural Fire Department, 1811 Main St. Registration is required by March 12. Registration may be made online or by contacting Wendy Carr at 406-827-6934 or [email protected]. Cost is $40, and lunch will be provided. Six pesticide applicator credits will be offered for attendance. Thursday, March 21: Kalispell, Hampton Inn, 1140 U.S. Highway 2 W. Registration is required by March 12. Registration may be made online or by contacting Mackenzie Dey at 406-758-5553 or [email protected]. Cost is $40, and lunch will be provided. Six pesticide applicator credits will be offered for attendance. Additional information about MSU Extensions initial private applicator trainings, including agendas and start and end times for each location, is available at montana.edu/extension/pesticides/events. Additional pesticide education questions may be directed to Cecil Tharp, pesticide education specialist, at 406-994-5067 or [email protected]. The Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce has released an analysis based on early-year figures from Statistics Finland, indicating that a record number of businesses ceased operations in the capital region in 2023. The data shows that 9,450 businesses closed down, marking a 17% increase compared to the previous year. These figures exclude the primary production and real estate sectors. The retail sector, in particular, has seen a significant number of closures over the past two years, with more businesses shutting down than starting up in the Helsinki region from January 2022 to September 2023. While bankruptcies and corporate restructurings are often used as indicators of economic downturns, Marko Silen, head of the advisory team at the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, suggests these metrics are becoming less relevant. Modern business practices allow for more controlled shutdowns of unprofitable ventures. "The decline in the number of retail businesses in the capital region is worrying. Even the construction sector saw more new businesses being established than closed. It's crucial to ensure that city centers remain attractive to a variety of retail businesses, which in turn draw diverse customer groups to the centers," Silen remarks. Nationwide, over 31,000 businesses were estimated to have closed last year, based on data from January to September 2023 provided by Statistics Finland, again excluding the primary production and real estate sectors. Businesses in the Helsinki region, which includes Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, and Kauniainen, account for approximately 27% of Finland's total business population, excluding primary production and real estate. This share has steadily increased from 24% in 2013. The report on business turnover and the estimate of businesses that closed in the Helsinki region in 2023 was prepared by researcher Pekka Lith for the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, which has about 7,000 members. The Chamber's service area covers 21 municipalities in the Uusimaa region, offering free legal advice to its members on various issues. HT In a move aligning with European Union Commission guidelines, Finland has imposed a ban on the import of passenger cars registered in Russia since September 16, 2023. The Finnish authorities have now set a deadline of March 16, 2024, for the export of such vehicles that were brought into the country before the ban took effect. This regulation, however, exempts cars owned by EU citizens residing permanently in Russia and diplomatic vehicles. Additionally, buses with a capacity of more than 10 passengers are still permitted entry into Finland. Vehicles bearing Russian registration plates must be removed from Finland by the stipulated deadline. The Finnish Motor Insurers' Centre will not issue new insurance policies for these vehicles valid beyond March 16, 2024. Vehicle owners can still purchase border traffic insurance from the Centre's office in Ruoholahdesti until the deadline, provided they schedule an appointment in advance. In the event of an accident involving an uninsured vehicle, the driver will not receive any compensation for personal damages. Nonetheless, the Motor Insurers' Centre will cover damages to other parties caused by uninsured Russian vehicles. This policy aims to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety on Finnish roads amidst changing regulatory environments. HT A coalition of Finnish Members of Parliament has issued a strong appeal to the government, urging the immediate continuation of financial support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This call comes in response to the cessation of funding amidst the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where UNRWA stands as a critical lifeline for millions. The MPs argue that the decision to halt funding was made on insufficient grounds, especially given the dire situation facing civilians in Gaza. UNRWA, as the sole humanitarian organization capable of providing widespread assistance in the region, has announced that its current financial resources are insufficient to meet all aid requirements even until the end of February. Gaza is facing a catastrophic hunger crisis, with hundreds of thousands of people crammed into inadequate shelters and hospitals running out of clean water and food. Humanitarian operations are on the brink of collapse, with aid being severely restricted across borders. With 28,000 employees, of whom 13,000 work in Gaza, UNRWA has been a significant source of employment and support in the region. Despite accusations from the Israeli government against 12 UNRWA workers for involvement in a Hamas attack on October 7, immediate actions have been taken against the accused individuals, who no longer work for UNRWA. The United Nations and UNRWA have initiated an independent investigation into the incident. UNRWA has consistently provided information on all its employees to Israel, with no further clarifications or concerns raised. The MPs highlight the unreasonableness of cutting off support from an organization that employs tens of thousands and serves over two million vulnerable Palestinians. They point to Norway and Denmark as examples of countries that have chosen not to end their funding. The appeal calls on the Finnish government to do everything in its power to ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza, to demand the release of hostages, to achieve an immediate ceasefire, and to influence Israel to comply with the binding interim decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which mandates that Israel must do everything possible to prevent genocide. The plea is signed by a broad spectrum of Finnish MPs, including Inka Hopsu (Green), chair of the Parliamentary Human Rights Network; Veronika Honkasalo (Left Alliance) and Pinja Perholehto (Social Democratic), vice-chairs of the network; and numerous members across the political spectrum, demonstrating a united front in support of UNRWA and the Palestinian people in need. HT The three opposition parties accuse the government of sowing division in labour markets and abandoning the culture of bargaining and collaboration by insisting on moving forward with a serious of bills concerning the strike rights, lay-off justifications and unemployment security. AN INTERPELLATION from the Green League, Left Alliance and Social Democrats kindled a long and heated debate in parliament on Tuesday. Antti Lindtman, the chairperson of the Social Democrats, pleaded with the government to lend an ear to wage earners and negotiate a solution that strikes a balance between labour market flexibilities and security. Were pleading with you: start the talks, put a stop to the spiral of confrontation, he stated according to YLE. Lauri Lyly (SDP) argued that the government proposals have been drafted by employer organisations, while the proposals of trade unions have been completely disregarded. Not a single thing proposed by employees ended up in government proposals. Not a single one, he bemoaned. Current Minister of Finance Riikka Purra (PS) promised before the elections that the government wouldnt interfere in the right to strike. And Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) has said that no one will be subjected to unreasonable demands. Minister of Employment Arto Satonen (NCP) responded to the criticism by stressing that it is necessary to strengthen national competitiveness, reminding that call for greater flexibility and local bargaining have been made by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the OECD. Maintaining the welfare state is only possible if everyone whos able is in working life, he argued. The government, he added, is willing to co-operate to tackle the problems but not to sweep the problems under the rug. Although the Centre Party did not support the interpellation, it did support the motion of confidence submitted by the Social Democrats. Tuomas Kettunen (Centre) viewed that the government has pushed the country to the brink of a general strike. The National Coalition and industry brass are forcing through unilateral changes to working life with no regard for the consequences and trying at the same time to defeat the labour movement, he said. And what about the Finns Party? he added. All thats left from everything that it promised to employees is the mafia remarks of the minister of economic affairs. They mostly remind you of mischievous brats. Prime minister, the time has come for you to lead. You if anyone has to take charge now, demanded Kettunen. Orpo on Tuesday both denied that the country is in chaos and blamed trade unions for causing the chaos. Finland isnt in chaos. The chaos has been caused by those whove taken the road of strikes, he countered in the Parliament House. We have the responsibility to save the Finnish welfare society. Purra, meanwhile, expressed her bafflement at the fact that opposition parties have rejected government proposals that are backed by the results of a survey by the Federation of Finnish Enterprises. When you ask companies if they plan on hiring after the reforms if of [these proposals] will make it easier to hire more workers, they answer yes, she said. Who should we ask if not those that create jobs? The labour movements actions are the biggest hindrance in Finland. Aleksi Teivainen HT Minister of Employment Arto Satonen (NCP) has justified the proposal by arguing that the duration of political strikes has been limited to two to three hours in Sweden. MEMBERS of the Finnish government have repeatedly made questionable claims in defence of the government proposal to impose a 24-hour limit on political strikes, report YLE and Helsingin Sanomat . Using Sweden as an example, which is a country were following in many respects, political strikes have in practice been limited to two to three hours, he commented to YLE in February. Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman (PS), meanwhile, is one of several cabinet members who has argued that the industrial peace legislation is outdated and in urgent need of amendments, echoing the contention of, for example, Technology Industries. Our industrial peace legislation dates back to 1946. No relevant amendments have been made to it over the decades, even though the world has moved forward tremendously, he argued on YLE A-Talk on Thursday. Helsingin Sanomat on Monday pointed out that Sweden has no laws or labour market agreements that would limit the duration of political strikes in the private sector. The Finnish government estimated in its draft proposal that political industrial actions in the country are allowed primarily as short protest-like measures the duration of which has effectively been pre-determined. Longer actions may be ruled to deprive the other dispute party of rights guaranteed under the collective agreement, specifically employers of their right to direct work, the proposal reads. Whether short refers to a couple of hours or a couple of days is unclear, however. In Sweden, legal experts agree that political strikes are allowed. They are also regarded as protests by nature, meaning they cant last for too long. But what too long means is open to interpretation, Niklas Bruun, a professor emeritus of commercial law at Hanken School of Economics, told Helsingin Sanomat. I dont think that political strikes that went on for weeks would be allowed. But its completely wrong to claim that theres a two or three-hour limit. No such precedent has been set, he added. Satonen said to the newspaper that his understanding of the practice stems from statements made by industry spokespeople in Sweden. Even if the allowed limit isnt two or three hours, whats key is that political strikes arent completely limitless in Sweden. But their duration can be evaluated in court on a case-by-case basis, he argued. Bruun also questioned the other assertion made by cabinet members in an interview with YLE. The industrial peace legislation, he stated, has been amended at least nine times, on different occasions, since 1984, with the most recent, 2001 amendment concerning compensatory fines for strikes. Seppo Koskinen, a professor emeritus of labour law at the University of Turku, admitted to the public broadcasting company that the amendments are not major but added that interpretations of the legislation have become stricter over the decades. Now itd be crucial to shoot down the idea that nothing has happened since the 40s and that partial compromises can always be made, he said to YLE. Aleksi Teivainen HT Housing challenges in Beatrice were discussed at a community meeting on Tuesday morning at the Beatrice Public Library. A thoughtful conversation about housing in our community was organized by a grassroots effort group, Planting Hope, Cultivating Understanding. Group members include Doris Martin, Kathee Forrest, Whitney Antons, Sandi Hoffman and Katie Jantzen. A similar type of meeting was held last spring to discuss poverty in the community. Martin welcomed a group of over 50 people to the discussion. She said she didnt know a lot about housing issues. I think these gatherings are so valuable, she said. Were in the same room, we can meet face-to-face and we can learn from people who actually know the answers to these questions. Central Plains Center for Services Whitney Antons spoke about the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Project. She shared a story of a young mother who was homeless from the community. She had a child in school and one that was 18 months of age, she said. She had nowhere to live or stay. Finding housing for her has been a struggle. She doesnt have a birth certificate for herself and one of her children. She didnt have the $17 for the housing application. She didnt have transportation. Without a birth certificate she does not qualify for the housing program. Antons talked about fair market rent and noted it was a big problem in our community. John Penner with First Mennonite Church talked about the challenges he faced when working with a newly immigrated family from Nicaragua. Ive become of some of the challenges involved with housing for a Spanish speaking family, he said. I was very naive. Penner noted that he and his wife, Zella, had signed a lease for a home for the family and subleased it to them. There had been problems with communicating, identification, and making an application for rent. This was a family with income, he said. They can only deal in cash because they cant get a checking account. Good housing is really a prerequisite for family health and stability. City of Beatrice Executive Director of Housing Lynn Remmers talked about Section 8 housing. Anybody in the city is eligible to apply for housing, she said. Low income, elderly, disabled, young adults and families and single people. There is an application process. They are issued a voucher and they look for a place to live. The landlord signs an agreement and an inspection is done. The tenant pays no more than 30% of their adjusted income. She noted that Beatrice has seen high rent prices lately which have hindered many people. She said there were a number of other barriers including lack of safe and sanitary housing available and landlords willing to work with housing. Martin noted that she saw housing as a multi-faceted problem and there were no easy answers. Care Corps LifeHouse Executive Managing Director Julie Sleister talked about the approach used in Fremont. We provide food, shelter, and clothing to those most affected by poverty in our community, she said. Poverty is such a big, diverse ball of twine. The shelter has been evolving for 25 years. They have a 62 bed facility and partner with several agencies to provide services for families in Fremont. We are more than a homeless shelter, she said. We take a holistic approach to addressing poverty. She said the agency found that for every $1 spent on prevention of homelessness saved $8. Martin is organizing a tour of LifeHouse. A panel discussion on barriers to housing in Beatrice was led by Mayor Bob Morgan. Antons, Penner and Remmers sat on the panel. Additionally, Lisa Lyons with Blue Valley Community Action Partnership Project FIRST, and Realtor Krista Wiedel with Brick and Mortar Realty were included in the panel discussion. Several community members asked questions of the panel. A follow-up meeting with guest speaker, President of Lutheran Family Services Chris Tonniges, is planned for Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the Beatrice Public Library. The Nebraska Director of Economic Development gave a presentation in Beatrice Tuesday regarding economic progress in the state. K.C. Belitz gave the presentation at Southeast Community Colleges Beatrice campus as part of NGages annual meeting. NGage is the local economic development group working to grow Gage County. Belitz started his presentation by discussing the current state of economic development, and how its changed over the years. Truly, were in a unique era of economic development, he said. The practice of economic development has changed night and day, 180 degrees, completely from what it was 20 years ago, and thats certainly reflected in the work we do, in the work that NGage does. Twenty years ago we would never have dreamed of talking about childcare as an economic development organization. Today, clearly, that is an economic development issue. Housing is a similar issue. For a very long time in Nebraska anyway, we sold very cheap land, cheap labor and cheap power. That was the recipe. That recipe doesnt apply anymore. In a truly global economy, cheap labor doesnt translate the same way it used to. If you try to do housing, you know that land isnt all that cheap and really we have some constraints in power capacity in the state because of all the growth we have seen. Belitz said the Department of Economic Development is working to grow Nebraska in key areas, including supporting entrepreneurs, existing companies and growing the population. He said attracting people to Nebraska is a top priority. We are 50,000-80,000 people short in filling available jobs in the state, thats got to be job one, he said. We have got to do what we need to do to attract people to fill those open jobs if were going to grow. Its clearly a limiting factor. According to Belitz, three people are leaving the U.S. workforce for every one entering. But he said there are lots of reasons to be optimistic, including that Nebraska has the third highest percentage of residents under 18 years of age and the sixth highest birth rate, which may translate to more workers in Nebraska. Belitz was introduced as the states economic development director by Gov. Jim Pillen last June and started his role the following month. A Columbus native, Belitz was previously the chief operating officer of the Nebraska Community Foundation. Belitz also led community development efforts in the Columbus region for 18 years as president of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. Wednesday February 21, 2024 Defense Minister Yasar Guler (R) shakes hands with his Somali counterpart Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur after signing the defense and economy deal, Ankara, Turkiye, Feb. 8, 2024. (AA Photo) In a new step toward enhanced cooperation, Somalia's Cabinet approved a defense and economic pact with Turkiye. The two countries already enjoy close ties and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre said the pact was historic. advertisements "In fact, this agreement builds on what's already happening on the ground with greater multifaceted cooperation between our two sides and a common approach to addressing challenges and capitalizing on opportunities," he said.The 10-year pact was signed by Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and Defense Minister Yasar Guler during the former's visit to Turkiye earlier this month.Barre was quoted by media outlets saying that Somalia thanked Turkiye and its people for their steady support for the government and the people of Somalia. In the signing ceremony in Turkiye, Guler reaffirmed that Somalia was an important partner of Turkiye in Africa.The agreement includes training and equipment for the Somali Navy to help it protect the African country's marine resources and threats such as terrorism and piracy. For Somalia, it will pave the way for more efficient use of its potential economy, from fishing to tourism and energy resources.Turkiye plays an active role in Somalia, from education to finance, through its nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to companies.Since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the country in 2011, Turkiye has built an 80,000-square-meter (861,112-square-foot) embassy in Mogadishu, its biggest embassy in Africa. Humanitarian organizations helped avert a famine in 2022 when Somalia witnessed one of the worst droughts in four decades. A pair of Turkish and Somali companies are also building a biogas power plant in Mogadishu to be completed by the end of this year. Wednesday February 21, 2024 Cuban National Assembly President Esteban Lazo Hernandez. (Photo: AFP) Cuba's parliament speaker is visiting Nairobi in a bid to uncover the fate of two Cuban doctors abducted in Kenya by Somalia-based jihadists almost five years ago, its foreign ministry said. The mission by Esteban Lazo comes after the Al-Shabaab Islamist militant group claimed that the two doctors had been killed in a US air strike in Somalia last week. Lazo "has travelled to Kenya in order to engage in urgent procedures with the highest authorities of that country", Cuba's foreign ministry said in a statement published on Tuesday. advertisements The foreign ministry was also establishing contacts with the Somali government "and addressed the US government via diplomatic channels on Sunday, February 18, asking for further clarification, and is still awaiting a response", it said.The Al-Qaeda-affiliated Al-Shabaab had said in a statement the two doctors were killed in "multiple drone strikes" in the southern Somali city of Jilib on February 15.The claims by the Islamist militant group, which has been waging a bloody insurgency against the fragile central government in Mogadishu for 16 years, could not be independently verified.The US Africa Command, in a statement to AFP on Monday, confirmed that an air strike had been conducted against the Al-Shabaab network near Jilib on that date."We are aware of reports of a strike alleged to have killed two civilians," it said."We do not have any further information at this time about these reports, but we do take all claims of civilian casualties seriously." Suspected jihadists had seized the two medics in the northeastern Kenyan town of Mandera, where they worked at the local hospital, and took them across the nearby border into Somalia.One of two police officers escorting the doctors was shot dead.A top Kenyan government official had said in May 2019 that the kidnappers were demanding $1.5 million for their release.The doctors were part of a 100-member Cuban medical brigade working in Kenya under a bilateral agreement.Al-Shabaab has waged a string of deadly assaults in Kenya in retaliation for the East African country's decision to send troops into Somalia in 2011.Despite the attacks, the East African country remains a major contributor to the African Union force which backs Mogadishu in its war against the Islamist militants.Al-Shabaab fighters were driven from the capital and other urban areas in 2011 but they still control swathes of rural Somalia.The group continues to carry out attacks against security and civilian targets, including in the capital, despite a military counter-offensive launched in August 2022, US air strikes and the AU troops on the ground.Earlier this month, the AU peacekeeping force known as ATMIS completed the second phase of a troop drawdown after a four-month delay. Under a UN calendar, ATMIS is due to pull out completely from the Horn of Africa nation by the end of this year, handing over to Somali security forces. For Mystical Powers, a 12-year-old patron of Billings South Park Pool, summer doesnt officially start until the pool opens. I make myself get extra sleep the whole week before so on the first day I can be up early and ready to go! Fellow middle schoolers Marnie Humphrey, Janelle Martinson and Madison Vance can hardly contain their excitement as well. I will jump right out of my chair on the day it opens, Marnie said. The girls are members of Girl Scout Troop 2028, led by Madisons mother, Lisa Vance, who is also the new chair of the South Side Task Force. Last November, the troop collaborated with local artist Elyssa Leininger to paint a mural of bison and elk on the side of the pool, the words you are worthy of love & belonging scrawled across the top, a message that has radiated throughout the South Side community for generations. South Park Pool was built in 1914, making it one of the oldest outdoor pools on this side of the Mississippi River. It also happens to serve possibly the most diverse community in Montana. According to the most recent census data, Billings contains the largest portion of Montanas African American population (20%), Montanas Hispanic population (18%) and Montanas Native American population (7.9%), many of whom reside on the Billings South Side at a nearly 2-to-1 ratio when compared to the rest of the city. But a diverse population often comes with a fraught history, and the South Side is no different. Lauren Hunley, a community historian at the Yellowstone Western Heritage Center in Billings, pointed out that South Park Pool is one of the few places in Billings with strong documentation of the discrimination that happened on a regulatory level. Its a road marker for the city of Billings and Montanas racial history, Hunley said. This is one of the few areas we can put a pin in and say, Yes it happened here, yes we fought against it and this is how we won. One key example: While men and women were allowed to swim together upon the pools opening a progressive attitude for 1914 Blacks were only allowed to swim on Sundays. Walker Browning, a foremost leader in the African American community of the South Side at the time, wrote a letter to the Billings Gazette expressing his frustration with the citys decision to allow Black residents access to the pool only one day of the week. The Gazette ran the letter the week of the pools opening, and the policy remained in place for another 50 years. Everything we have, weve had to fight for, said Jim Ronquillo, a former city councilman who has spent his entire life living on the South Side. Everything the city has taken away from us, theyve never given back. We always have to fight to get something back, to keep something thats ours. Now, in 2024, the pool South Side residents have claimed as their own for 110 years is at risk of closing. The pool has gone through a streak of needing continual repairs, including but most certainly not limited to: the pool liner, the pool heater, the drainage pipes and the circulation pump in 2011, 2013 and again in 2022. While each repair keeps the pool limping along for another year, proponents understand these solutions are temporary fixes. It needs to be completely demolished and redone, said Mike Pigg, director of Billings Parks, Recreation and Public Lands. The bathhouse is the main issue. State law requires that we have functioning bathrooms and showers in order to open the pool, and the bathhouse is not in good shape. Itll open this summer, but I just dont see how we can put another bandage on it. Pigg has worked at the parks department since 2013 and was named director last June. The disparity between South Park Pool and Rose Park Pool, a pool located in north-central Billings in significantly better condition, has been a top concern of his since taking the position. One of the things I look at is the equity of what were providing for the community, Pigg said. Were looking at a low-income area, and were providing a pool like this. What does that say about the city? Its not equitable in any way. Weve got to do something to make this right. A study is currently underway to determine the needs of the city in regards to pools, splash pads and other aquatic needs, with results expected in May of this year. The city council has allocated $400,000 for design costs for South Park Pool, but voters will eventually be asked to fund the construction costs estimated at $10 million. Finding money for park projects is particularly difficult in Billings. Parks are funded through the Billings general fund, which houses money for parks, public safety (police and fire) and the citys administration. Public safety takes up about 80% of the general fund, parks another 10%, and administration the last 10%, said Kendra Shaw, one of two current Ward 1 City Council representatives who oversee South Park Pool. The admin budget is lean and relatively fixed; theres nothing substantial there to move over. That leaves public safety, and cutting the police budget to fund parks is a non-starter for most of the community. The city also cant pull money from other departments, such as water, sewer or street funding. This leaves limited options, mainly increased taxes and grants, to cover the cost, and, with the recent increase in statewide property taxes, few levies or bonds have passed anywhere in Montana. Billings own parks bond, which included funding for South Park Pool, overwhelmingly failed at the ballot box. Residents are hopeful for alternative solutions. Lisa Vance recalled one particular scouting trip to Butte. There was this beautiful carousel that was donated by people in the city. Even the construction workers donated their time to help build it. I thought, why couldnt we do that here? In the meantime, South Side residents continue to care for their beloved pool. I hope people will come to see the mural and how pretty the pool is now, Powers said. I hope someday when Im older, fellow Scout Madison added, I can bring my kids to the pool and show them the mural and how hard we worked. And then well all go swimming together. Each winter, our lands and waters are full of millions of migratory birds. Most come from the cold North from the Arctic region, the Palearctic and Eurasia. Ornithologists call this migratory route the Central Asian flyway. The CAF encompasses 30 countries in Eurasia. There are nine such major flyways in the world, but the CAF has historically been the most neglected in terms of funding and institutional support. Ecologically, India is a crucial part of this flyway as the largest land mass before the Indian Oceanmany migrating birds conclude their wintering journey in India instead of crossing the ocean. Politically, India has shown leadership by making a strong pitch for hosting the Central Asian flyway. The United Nations Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) has just concluded its 14th Conference of Parties (COP) in Uzbekistan. Parties decided that the CAF will now have a coordinating unit based in India. It has taken over two decades of negotiations to come to this point; and India hosting the CAF is a shrewd choice. At the last CMS Conference of Parties in Gandhinagar, prime minister Narendra Modi stressed on Indias National Action Plan for the Central Asian Flyway, and how India would like to assist other countries to create their own action plans. This now presents India with an important opportunity to emerge as a world leader in a flyway which has unique challengesit is part of the most populated places on earth, with many countries charting strong developmental pathways which need to be integrated with conservation goals. At Gandhinagar, PM Modi spoke about Indias guidelines for linear infrastructure. This includes mitigation of the threats of electric wires, which kill birds. As we electrify more and more, mitigating the impact of high tension wires on migratory and resident birds is just one of the challenges. The others are climate change and habitat loss. Migratory birds are a very visible natural phenomena tourism to places like Keoladeo in Rajasthan and Chilika in Odisha go up during the migratory season as tens of hundreds birds arrive. Neighbourhood parks and ponds fill themselves with avian life. The Siberian stonechat migrates to India from Central Asia.(Neha Sinha) Yet, as the State of Indias Birds report 2023, a status assessment by 13 institutions, found, migratory bird numbers have shown a serious decline. Coastal migrants have declined by 50%. Shorebirds that breed in the Arctic have declined by nearly 80%. The very first State of Worlds Migratory Species report, launched at the CMS COP 14, also stated that many migratory birds have shown declines worldwide. By integrating conservation schemes and development pathways, India can show the way for this flyway. Some birds on the CAF, like Bar-headed geese, perform the amazing feat of flying over the worlds highest mountains, the Himalayas; others are flycatchers and warblers which weigh a few grams but cross the worlds busiest cities. These are climate survivors and long-distance champions that deserve nothing less than the best science-based, multi-stakeholder action. Firstly, we can integrate our work on Ramsar sites and other wetlands with migratory bird goals. India now has 80 Ramsar sites wetlands of global importance, most of which have important waterbird populations. Many Ramsar sites, like Bharatpur and Kolleru, are huge and well-known. Smaller, less visible wetlands important for migratory species should also be conserved. Climate change leads to birds often starting their migrations earlier than expected, which leads to exhaustion. Birds need more resting, feeding and staging sites. Secondly, river rejuvenation work should go hand in hand with wetland rejuvenation. Water is a fantastic means of understanding ecological connectivity healthy wetlands often replenish rivers (and vice versa), fill ground water tables, and serve birds and people alike. Understanding the connections of freshwater systems helps aid restoration at a landscape level. This has been demonstrated in the Aril rivera tributary of the Ramganga in Uttar Pradesh , where Khangwa Shyam, Lilaur and Bahoda Kheda wetlands have been restored. Through improved connectivity between catchment and these wetlands, we have more recharged groundwater and increased flows in the river. Thirdly, we must join hands with other countries on the flyway to find answers to modern problems. The Steppe eagle, a large bird that migrates from Central Asia to India, often gets electrocuted at various parts of the flyway. Birds on the flyway facing decline include species like the Indian Skimmer, Asiatic Dowitcher, Sociable lapwings and many birds of prey. We need investigations to understand why and come up with action plans to arrest their decline. Birds on the Central Asian flyway have been using these migration routes since centuries. Now, they face modern challenges like kilometres of electric lines and poisons in various food chains. To secure the future of migratory birds that cross borders, parties must work together in finding technologies, approaches, partnerships, financing and the political will to apply them. Neha Sinha is a conservation biologist who heads policy and communications at the World Wide Fund for Nature-India (WWF-India). The views expressed are personal. The Maharashtra Legislature unanimously passed a bill reserving 10% of the seats in educational institutions and the same proportion of government jobs for people from the Maratha community in the third such attempt by the state government to carve out a quota for the once-dominant agrarian community, after the courts struck down similar laws enacted in 2014 and 2019. The bill, Maharashtra State Reservation for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes Act 2024, stated that the community does not require a reservation in politics as it is adequately represented in the political field of the state. If the reservation is not provided on an urgent basis, the community would be denigrated even further leading to complete social imbalance, social exclusion, inequality and social injustice, it stated. The government cited the findings of a report submitted by the Maharashtra State Commission for Backward Classes (MSCBC) as the basis for the reservation. The report stated that the Marathas account for 28% of Maharashtras population, and are in exceptional circumstances and extraordinary condition of backwardness, making it a fit case for reservation over the 50% ceiling mandated by the Supreme Court. The 10% quota is over and above the existing 62% reservation in the state, which includes 10% for those belonging to economically weaker sections (EWS) and the remaining 52% caste-based quota. The reservation in jobs and education for Marathas has become a five-year election plank and it fulfils, yet again, a long-standing demand of members of the community, and no political party has been able to ignore these demands. The first attempt at reservation was made by the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 2014, just ahead of the Assembly polls. It was struck down by the Bombay high court immediately in November, soon after the polls. The Devendra Fadnavis-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government passed a fresh bill in November 2018, just five months ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, but it was short-lived as the Supreme Court stayed it in September 2020 and later quashed it in May 2021. Most recently, chief minister Eknath Shindes three-party coalition government followed the footsteps of the earlier two governments while enacting a fresh law to accord 10% reservation to Marathas in jobs and education. However, like the previous two laws, the fate of this one enacted mere weeks before the Lok Sabha polls and Assembly elections will be announced, is uncertain too. Heres what happened in the past to the reservation laws enacted by different state governments. Strike 1 In 2014, the Prithviraj Chavan government enacted a law to accord 16% reservation to Marathas and 5% to Muslims after the ruling Congress-NCP alliance faced a humiliating defeat in the Lok Sabha elections that were held barely a month before. The Congress-NCP alliance won barely six seats out of its tally of 26 seats before the polls. It was seemingly a last-ditch effort by the then ruling allies to save their government in the state. A committee under the then state minister Narayan Rane, submitted its report on the status of Marathas in March 2014 recommending a 20% quota to the community. The Rane committee, which was formed in 2013, surveyed 550,000 families and 1.8 million people from the community to establish its backwardness. The state cabinet in June that year gave its nod to 16% and 5% reservation to Marathas and Muslims. The reservation was stayed by the Bombay HC in November; the SC, in December, refused to vacate the interim stay on the quota. While staying the ordinance issued by the state government for quota, the Bombay HC observed, The Maratha community is a resourceful community and there are no elements of backwardness. The HC order also stayed the order on reservations for Muslims in government jobs but upheld reservations for Muslim students in government institutions saying it wanted Muslim youths to come into the mainstream. The HC faulted the government for the Rane committee report saying it suffered from infirmities and could not be relied upon. The Congress-NCP government lost power in October 2014 despite according reservations to the Marathas, a community that always stood by the alliance. Strike 2 Between August 9, 2016, and August 9, 2017, the Maratha community conducted 58 silent marches to push their demand for reservation. Devendra Fadnavis, who became chief minister in 2014, enacted a law in November 2018, months before the Lok Sabha elections the following year. The law granted reservations to Marathas and relied on an 11-member Maharashtra State Commission for Backward Classes report led by retired judge MG Gaikwad. The commission report of more than 1,000 pages was submitted in November 2018 and made a case for exceptional circumstances that would allow the Maratha community to fall within the exception carved out by the Supreme Court in its benchmark Indra Sawhney judgment that put a 50% ceiling on all quotas. The category of exceptional circumstances was recognised but not delineated by the Supreme Court in the Indra Sawhney judgement, research associate at the Centre for Policy Research and legal scholar Jai Brunner wrote in a 2020 article. In establishing this 50% ceiling, the Bench briefly recognized that exceptional situations may necessitate breaking it from time to time. However, it never defined a clear set of conditions. Rather, it speculated that peculiar conditions in far-flung and remote areas may make some relaxation in this strict ruleimperative. It stressed that extreme caution must be exercised when considering breaking the 50% ceiling. The survey of 43, 629 families in more than 175 tehsils across the state allotted 10 points to social, 8 to educational and 7 to economic backwardness. The total points added up to 40, and the report was able to make a case for the social, economic and educational backwardness of the community. Based on this report, the BJP government enacted the legislation giving a 16% quota to Marathas in jobs and education. When challenged, it was upheld in the Bombay HC but the court reduced the quota to 12% and 13% in education and jobs, respectively. The SC stayed the law and later quashed it in May 2021. The top court called the law unconstitutional and stated that the community was not socially and educationally backward. It also stated that breaching the 50% cap on quota was unacceptable and pointed questions at the Gaikwad Commission report for its failure to prove the backwardness. A review petition filed by the then Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi coalition government led by Uddhav Thackeray government was turned down by the SC too. Before it was stayed and quashed, the BJP-Sena combine that enacted the law in 2018, also saw a dip in its win in the Assembly polls held in October 2019, by over 20 seats. Third time lucky? In August 2023, Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil and other community leaders resorted to a hunger strike demanding the issuance of the Kunbi certificates to Marathas in central Maharashtra to facilitate their inclusion in the Other Backward Class quotas. The state government constituted a committee under the additional chief secretary of the revenue department to find records of Kunbi antecedents. It led to unrest among the OBC communities that were concerned about what they viewed as an encroachment by the Marathas. They opposed the issuance of the Kunbi certificates by finding new records in revenue machinery. On September 1, 2023, the police hit Maratha protesters headed by Jarange-Patil in Antarwali Sarati in Jalna. This triggered aggressive protests by members of the community across the state. It offered steam to the protest demanding reservation and various Maratha communities extended their support to Jarange-Patil. By now, the state was in the third iteration of the government in as many years a BJP-Shiv Sena (led by Eknath Shinde)-NCP (led by Ajit Pawar) coalition. Shinde, who was the CM, directed the MSCBC-led by retired judge Anand Nirgude to collate empirical data on the backwardness of the Marathas. Amid differences with the government over the modalities and terms of reference to them, Nirgude and a few other members resigned from the post in November and December 2023. This prompted the government to appoint retired judge Sunil Shukre as its chairman. The MSCBC surveyed over 158,000 households from the open category between January 23 and February 2 and submitted its report to the government on February 16. Based on this report, the Shinde government enacted a new 10 % quota for Marathas in jobs and education. Constitutional expert Ulhas Bapat said, The 10% quota given by the Shinde government is unlikely to stand the legal scrutiny as the violation of the 50% cap is not acceptable and it has been clarified by various courts time and again. The courts would ask the government why it did not put the Marathas in the OBC quota if they were found socially and educationally backward? I do not think the claim of exceptional circumstances and extraordinary conditions of backwardness proven by the MSCBC would not stand in the court. Shinde government's act of enacting new law has not gone well with the OBCs who are upset with the state government a fact that has no doubt worried the BJP. A US-based company is paying its employees to hangout with each other after 3pm. The plan is called 3-3-3 perk and has been introduced by cloud-based security firm Verkada. As per the programme, three or more employees go out for food and drinks after 3 pm at the company's expense and each employee is allowed to spend $30. Employees are recommended to use the perk once or twice a week as CFO Kameron Rezai told Business Insider, "The traditional way to do this is happy hour. We thought, can we do it better?" The programme has one requirement- employees share a photo of their hangout session. The $3.5 billion California company started the programme in April last year. Since then, 1,800 of its employees have participated in it at least once, it said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. CEO Filip Kaliszan said, "The idea is it's the afternoon and three people go out and hang out together, chances are you'll talk about something that's relevant or work-related and ultimately that will benefit us." These kind of interactions are important for a company like this so that it stays competitive in the industry at a time when their rivals are tech companies that are worth $100 billion, he added. Although, there is one little requirement of the 3-3-3 programme- employees have to share a photo of their hangout session on their "3-3-3" Slack channel. It wasn't about the money it wasn't about the budget. It was about everyone knowing that this is something they can do and then everyone getting excited about it, Filip Kaliszan said. To scrutinise and monitor the operations at the District Civil Hospital in Ludhiana, Dr Anil Kumar Goyal, director of the Punjab Health System Corporation, visited the healthcare facility on Wednesday. The two-and-a-half-hour-long inspection exposed appalling conditions, including broken wheelchairs, torn mattresses and inadequate cleanliness standards. During his thorough examination, Dr Goyal expressed anguish at the negligence evident across various departments of the hospital. Dr Anil Kumar, director PHSC, during his visit to civil hospital in Ludhiana February 21, 2024. (HT Photo) Upon arriving at the hospital around 1 pm, Dr Goyal was alarmed to witness staff transporting a broken wheelchair that had no back support, foot and armrest, symbolising the substandard facilities for patient care. In the emergency ward, he was outraged by dirty floors, torn beds and stretchers lacking mattresses, highlighting systemic failures in maintaining essential equipment. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The principal secretary of Punjab through video conferencing and circulars has time and again asked for the maintenance and streamlining of the operations across all the healthcare facilities. But this hospital has turned away ears neglecting all guidelines that have been issued in the past, Dr Goyal lamented. Similar conditions persisted in the trauma ward, with dirty floors, missing bedsheets and improper disposal of medical waste further exacerbating concerns. Dr Goyals inspection extended to the outpatient department (OPD), where he criticised overgrown bushes and deficient record-keeping practices, admonishing staff for their lapses. In the eye department, inadequate surgical output drew Dr Goyals ire, emphasising the need for increased procedures to meet demand. Additionally, he condemned the medicine department for torn mattresses, faulty equipment and a lack of privacy measures, compromising patient comfort and dignity. He also expressed dismay over the underutilisation of the Ayushman Bharat Sarbat Bima Yojana, stressing the importance of enrolling eligible patients. His scrutiny extended to the pharmacy, where he discovered inadequate record-keeping practices and swiftly demanded corrective action. During his visit, Dr Goyal uncovered discrepancies in the management of pharmaceutical records at the hospitals pharmacy. Upon reviewing patient prescriptions, he observed that most medications were being prescribed from within the hospital, with only a few exceptions. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the pharmacy maintained only a single register for recording both essential and non-essential drug lists (EDL and non-EDL medicines), contrary to protocol. This oversight was noted not only in the civil hospitals pharmacy but also in the pharmacy of the Mother and Child Hospital. Dr Goyal expressed strong objection to this negligence, emphasising the importance of maintaining separate registers for EDL and non-EDL medicines to ensure proper record-keeping and regulatory compliance. He took action regarding violations observed during his inspection. Upon visiting the Verka booth within the hospital premises, he discovered unauthorised sale of non-Verka products alongside Verka offerings. Asserting that such practices violated established regulations, Dr Goyal instructed the senior medical officer (SMO) to immediately revoke the license of the Verka booth. Ensuring accountability and swift resolution of identified issues is paramount, said Dr Goyal. For the first time, the hospital management will take charge of curating the tour notes, which will then be promptly sent to higher authorities. Subsequently, within the following three days, an action taken report (ATR) will be furnished. This proactive approach guarantees that the discrepancies noted today do not go neglected but are promptly addressed and improved upon within the set time frame. Officials from the Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) have lodged a complaint at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar police station regarding the unauthorised cutting down of trees in Block-E, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Pakhowal Road, in Ludhiana According to the complaint, a large number of trees in Block-E were allegedly cut down by the park management committee and some unidentified individuals for personal gain. (HT Photo) Members of the Public Action Committee (PAC), along with other residents of the city, have accused the park management committee of Block-E, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, of chopping down a significant number of trees on Wednesday. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to the complaint, a large number of trees in Block-E were allegedly cut down by the park management committee and some unidentified individuals on Tuesday and Wednesday for personal gain. Kapil Arora, a PAC member, said, No permission was obtained from the LIT for the tree cutting. I personally informed Jaswinder Singh from the horticulture department about the matter via phone and WhatsApp. Arora emphasised the importance of tree conservation, citing Article 51A, which obliges citizens to protect trees and the states responsibility to ensure their preservation. Arvind Sharma, another resident, lamented the loss of a 30-year-old tree, and lodged a complaint with senior officials urging them to take action against those responsible. Rajesh Chaudhary, estate officer of LIT, commented, Residents have axed the trees without any permission and I have filed a complaint to the police officials to take action accordingly. Kolkata: Fresh reports of deactivation of Aadhaar cards of citizens surfaced in several districts of West Bengal on Wednesday, 48 hours after the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) said it is updating its database and no number has been cancelled. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Centre of cancelling the Aadhaar cards of several residents in the state (ANI) At least 100 people from Nadia, Malda, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts told the local authorities and media that they received letters from UIDAI informing them that their cards had been deactivated. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. My wife is unwell and I have to take her to a doctor. When I failed to withdraw money from my bank account I found that my Aadhaar card has been deactivated, Krishna Das, a resident of Malda, told reporters. As these deactivations, which started last week, triggered a political row in Bengal, the UIDAI authorities in Delhi said in a statement on Monday that messages are sent to Aadhaar card holders from time to time to keep the Aadhaar database updated but no number has been cancelled. While fresh reports of deactivation surfaced in four districts, around 50 residents of Jamalpur in West Burdwan district celebrated on Wednesday when they found that their cards had been reactivated. Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this issue on Monday, a day after alleging at a government event that a mass deactivation of the cards was being done to deprive poor people of her welfare schemes before the Lok Sabha polls. Since most of the affected people are members of the Dalit Matua community from Bangladesh - who entered Bengal as refugees after Partition and the 1971 Bangladesh War Banerjee alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to enforce the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Bengal. Although the Centre has maintained silence on NRC, Union home minister Amit Shah said on February 10 that CAA will be implemented across India before the Lok Sabha elections. Passed by Parliament in 2020, CAA offers citizenship to non-Muslims who entered India from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh before 2015. TMC insists that CAA is unconstitutional as it links citizenship to faith in a secular country. Also Read: Mamata writes to PM Modi over deactivation of Aadhaar cards On Sunday, Banerjee ordered state government officials to launch a portal where people could register their complaints regarding Aadhaar deactivation. Reacting to this, Union minster of state for shipping and BJP Lok Sabha member from North 24 Parganas, Shantanu Thakur opened a helpline and a camp for the affected people and said the deactivation was caused by a technical error. Thakur, a leader of the Matua community, and BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar both promised that the Aadhaar cards would be reactivated soon. When fresh reports of deactivation surfaced on Wednesday, Thakur said: As I pointed out earlier, this is a technical error. Nobody will be affected. We are helping people through our camp. Majumdar, on the other hand, said: No card has been deactivated. This is just a propaganda. Sending the letters is part of a routine exercise by UIDAI. Banerjee has continued to target the Centre. Addressing an event on the occasion of World Mother Language Day in Kolkata, she said: This is a conspiracy against Bengal. They (BJP) want to enforce CAA and NRC but we will not allow it. Kolkata: The West Bengal Police have registered a second first information report (FIR) in the Sandeshkhali case on allegations of gang rape following a complaint from a woman who filed her statement before a judicial magistrate against the two Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, officials familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Women hold banner during a protest march in Kolkata in Sandeshkhali case (PTI Photo) On Saturday, police initiated charges of gang rape under section 376d against two TMC leaders Uttam Sardar and Shibaprasad Hazra. The second FIR has been registered against Hazra and his two aides Amir Ali Gaji and Bhanu Mondol, police said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Hazra, one of the prime accused in the case of alleged land grab and sexual harassment case, was arrested on Saturday and is now in police custody, while Sardar was arrested earlier this month. Sandeshkhali, a village in North 24 Parganas district, has become the latest flashpoint between the chief minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The village has been on the boil since February 8 after several women levelled serious allegations of sexual assault by TMC strongman Sheikh Shajahan and his aides. Shajahan has been on the run ever since his supporters attacked Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5, who had gone to search his premises in connection with a ration scam probe. Villagers have alleged that the TMC leader and his associates grabbed their lands forcefully and turned them into fish farms. Meanwhile, West Bengal director general and inspector general of police Rajeev Kumar along with other senior officials, including senior IPS officer Supratim Sarkar, ADG (South Bengal) and HM Rehman, Basirhat district superintendent of police, visited the riot-hit areas of Sandeshkhali amid the prevailing situation in the area. Also Read: Horrific: Adhikari on West Bengals Sandeshkhali situation Earlier during the day, he visited some of the areas in Sandeshkhali and spoke to the villagers and civic police volunteers who are posted in the villages. He also held a meeting with senior officials at Sandeshkhali police station, a police officer aware of the development said. Police on Tuesday had clamped fresh prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure in 12 pockets of Sandeshkhali. We have also installed around 10 CCTV cameras in five places. Large police contingents are still deployed in the villages. We are reviewing the situation. The pockets where prohibitory orders have been imposed will be brought own soon, said another district officer. KANPUR The anti-dacoity court in Auraiya on Wednesday convicted former bandit Seema Singh Parihar, 55, and her three aides for kidnapping a man for ransom in 1994. Special judge (anti-dacoity) Sunil Singh sentenced them to four years imprisonment and levied a fine of 5,000 each. Special judge (anti-dacoity) Sunil Singh sentenced them to four years imprisonment and levied a fine of 5,000 each. (Pic for representation) District government counsel (DGC) Abhishek Mishra and additional DGC (anti-dacoity) Mukesh Porwal said the court found Parihar, her gang members Ram Kishan alias Kishna, Chhote and Aniruddh guilty. They were sentenced to four years imprisonment, said Porwal. This is the first time Seema has been convicted in any case after being acquitted in 15 cases in the past. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Parihar, once a member of the Lalaram Singh gang, surrendered before the UP Police in June 2000 after Singh was killed in a police encounter. She considered former bandit Phoolan Devi an inspiration and appeared as a contestant in Big Boss in 2010. Parihar was also seen in a film. She joined the Samajwadi Party after being released from jail. The case against her was registered at Auraiya Kotwali on March 19, 1994. About 15 heavily armed men had kidnapped Pramod Tripathi, 25, when he was on his field to oversee the irrigation in Gadiya Baxiram village. The charge sheet in this case was filed after the victim somehow reached his house. Gang leader Lalaram and Seema Parihar were charged in this case. Trial in the case took place for some time in Etawah but was transferred to Auraiya after it was carved out Etawah as a district in 1997. Seema faced the trial with others while Lalaram died in 2000 in a shootout with Kanpur Dehat police. Earlier, Parihar was brought to Kanpur amid tight security. The former bandit expressed disappointment that she was punished despite no involvement in the case. I do not how and why the police added my name in this case, she said. Her lawyer Kuldeep Dubey said he would challenge the courts decision in the higher court. Seema was a captive of Lalaram and included in cases in which Lalaram was an accused he said, adding this is why she was acquitted in other cases. Parihar was kidnapped at the age of 13 by Lalaram and Kusuma Nain and became an active dacoit after getting married to another dacoit Nirbhay Gujjar in 1986. Before she surrendered, Parihar had nearly 60 cases of kidnapping, murder and arson registered against her in UP and Madhya Pradesh. LUCKNOW: A 35-year-old cleric was arrested on Wednesday and a search launched for his brother in connection with the alleged gang rape of an eight-year-old girl inside a madrasa in Lucknow for several months, police said. The brothers were booked under Section 376D (gang rape) of the IPC and Pocso Act. The victim was raped multiple times, said Suresh Singh, SHO, Malihabad police station. (Pic for representation) The survivors mother, police added, was also arrested for allegedly allowing the two accused to rape the minor. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The police action came after a complaint by the minors father, who works in Oman but learnt about the incident after he returned to India a month ago. According to deputy commissioner of police (West) Vishwajeet Srivastava, the girls father said the cleric, identified as Mohammad Abedin, and his brother, Arshad, belonged to Hardoi but taught at a madrasa in Lucknow. The two accused, according to the survivors father, would often visit his house. When he left for Oman five to six months ago, he asked the accused to take care of his family, Srivastava said. The father said that in his absence, Abedin made frequent visits to the house and began an affair with the formers wife. The mother and her daughter gradually started living in the madrasa where the accused taught. At the madrasa, Abedin and Arshad repeatedly raped the minor with the mothers consent, Srivastava said. The girls father said he learnt about the incident after he returned to India a month ago to meet her. Whenever my daughter complained to her mother about the madrasa teacher, she would beat her, he said. Suresh Singh, station house officer (SHO) at Malihabad police station, said the two accused were booked under section 376D (gang rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act. The survivor was raped multiple times, Singh said. Srivastava said the survivors mother was arrested under section 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code. While the girls mother and Abedin have been arrested, Arshad continues to be at large, he said. LUCKNOW Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said efforts were underway to develop Naimisharanya in Sitapur as a pilgrimage centre even as he highlighted the importance of Sanatan Dharma and its role in helping individuals lead a virtuous life. The Yogi Adityanath cabinet had in November 2023 cleared a proposal to renovate the Naimish Dham in Sitapur on the lines of other Hindu pilgrimage sites like Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura-Vrindavan, and Vindhyavasini Dham. (File Photo) Keeping the importance of Naimisharanya in mind, the state government has decided to develop it as major pilgrimage site, Adityanath said during the inauguration of the Sthapna-Pran-Pratishtha Mahotsav of Sri Jagdamba Raj Rajeshwari temple and the Chitshakti gate of the new temple at Naimisharanya and highlighted its reference in revered texts such as the Ramcharitmanas. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Yogi Adityanath cabinet had in November 2023 cleared a proposal to renovate the Naimish Dham in Sitapur on the lines of other Hindu pilgrimage sites like Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura-Vrindavan, and Vindhyavasini Dham and Adityanath said restoring the glory of the ancient pilgrimage site was also important for economic reasons. Restoring the ancient glory of this pilgrimage place is not only important for religious reasons, but also for economic growth, Adityanath said even as he spoke of the economic boom experienced by the trader community in Ayodhya post the consecration ceremony. He underscored the potential for creating employment opportunities for thousands of local youths through rejuvenation of the pilgrimage site. The CM also praised the nationwide initiatives led by Prime Minister Modi aimed at revitalizing Indias rich cultural heritage. He highlighted the remarkable transformation of iconic sites like Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakaal, Kedarpuri, Badrinath Dham, and Ayodhya, which rekindled the faith of millions of Sanatan Dharma followers after centuries. He said religion is much more than just a set of rituals and stressed on the universal significance of Sanatan Dharma. As long as Sanatan Dharma thrives, humanity will continue to progress towards common, collective welfare. On the other hand, any threat to Sanatan Dharma threatens the well-being of humanity as a whole, he added. Shaktipeeth, the sacred abode of Maa Lalita Devi and Chakratirtha, is located here. Connecting old traditions, Saint Sanmukhanand Puri Ji Maharaj established Rajarajeshwari temple and ashram, Adityanath said. The CM emphasized that when all citizens dedicate their efforts and achievements to the service of the nation, Indias ascent as a global powerhouse becomes inevitable. Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar also expressed his views on the occasion. Sean Steinebach describes acreage included in the Pintler Face project on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest as a forest health disaster. Steinebach works as a forester for Sun Mountain Lumber in Deer Lodge. Chris Marchion says historic logging by the Anaconda Company, followed by timber cutting in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s had logged the bejesus out of much of the area and left a network of high-standard roads. Many were later closed. In many places, large, even-aged, over-mature stands of lodgepole pines remain, Marchion said. Marchion is an inductee into the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame, a longtime advocate for wildlife and public lands access and a member of the Anaconda Sportsmens Club. Both Marchion and Steinebach live in Anaconda-Deerlodge County. Both are members of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Working Group, a citizens group representing diverse interests. Members represent conservation, hunting and fishing, timber, outfitters and guides, agriculture/ranching, recreation and more. One goal is to resolve issues on the forest that might otherwise trigger litigation. Marchion participated in the review of the Pintler Face timber project and he was generally satisfied with the decision green-lighting the project. The Forest Service worked really well with us, Marchion said. We had a lot of input. Marchion also complimented the efforts of Vanna Boccadori, Butte-area wildlife biologist for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He said she worked hard to provide information to the Working Group. He said the project details outlined in the Pintler Face decision, related field trips and collaborative work led him to believe the project offered a constructive thing to do with the landscape. Yet that collaboration did not thwart litigation. Three environmental groups filed suit Friday in U.S. District Court in Missoula to halt the Pintler Face project. The lawsuit was filed well after the Forest Service project decision released in September 2021. Logging has already begun. One plaintiff is the Alliance for the Wild Rockies, based in Helena, for which Mike Garrity is executive director. We couldn't find a lawyer until now, he said, referencing the timing of the lawsuit In a news release, Garrity alleged the project will basically deforest the south face of the Anaconda-Pintler Range, which is bordered by the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness area. The Forest Service reports that the project area is 73,624 acres and located about 10 miles northwest of Wise River on the south face of the Anaconda Range on the Wisdom Ranger District. The project would involve logging, burning or other vegetation treatments on about 11,224 acres. Environmental analysis for the Pintler Face project began in July 2016. During the summer of 2017, the Forest Service held public open house meetings in Anaconda, Wisdom, Wise River, Dillon and Butte. The lawsuit filed by Alliance for the Wild Rockies, Yellowstone to Uintas Connection and Native Ecosystems Council contends that the Forest Services analysis for the Pintler Face project was inadequate especially when considering potential impacts on grizzly bears, Canada lynx and wolverines all threatened species. The Yellowstone to Uintas Connection is based in Paris, Idaho, and the Native Ecosystems Council is based in Willow Creek, Montana. The plaintiffs lawsuit reports that their members use the project area for hiking, fishing, hunting, camping and a variety of other recreational, scientific and spiritual pursuits. Plaintiffs members intend to continue to use and enjoy the area frequently and on an ongoing basis in the future, the lawsuit observes. Defendants include Leanne Martin, regional forester for the Forest Services Region One, Lisa Timchak, supervisor for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The lawsuit alleges that the Forest Service violated the National Environmental Policy Act by failing to complete either an environmental assessment, EA, or environmental impact statement, EIS, when remapping lynx habitat on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge in 2020. In addition, the plaintiffs allege that the Forest Service should have completed an EIS instead of a less comprehensive EA for the Pintler Face project and faults the biological opinion contributed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. The plaintiffs ask the court to either reject the project decision or block its implementation. They also seek compensation under the Equal Access to Justice Act for costs, expenses, expert witness fees and reasonable attorney fees. Marchion and Steinebach both said environmental groups like the Alliance for the Wild Rockies are invited to be part of the collaborative process that refines a project but often elect not to participate. Steinebach said Sun Mountain Logging already has work underway within the Pintler Face project. Its extremely frustrating, Steinebach said. Its not part of how they operate to be part of the process. It makes me think they dont care about whats happening on the ground. It has significant impacts on what we do. The Forest Service reports that the Native Ecosystems Council and Alliance for the Wild Rockies did not respond to an invitation to attend resolution meeting in July 2021. On Wednesday, Garrity described two prolonged collaborative efforts in years past in which he actively participated that yielded nothing yet required sacrificing countless hours of time. Meanwhile, Steinebach described the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Working Group as a diverse group of people trying to improve forest health and reduce fuels and keep jobs. LUCKNOW: All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Priyanka Gandhi spoke to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday morning to facilitate a breakthrough between the two parties and to finalise the seat-sharing agreement. The Samajwadi Party has agreed to allocate 17 Lok Sabha seats to the grand old party in Uttar Pradesh. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (Sourced) Those aware of the development said both Priyanka Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav held a long discussion on seat-sharing over phone and the AICC general secretary persuaded the SP chief to leave 17 seats that the Congress wanted to contest from. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Yes, initially the SP offered seats where the Congress did not have a strong base. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra persuaded the SP chief to leave Amroha and Barabanki in exchange for Jalaun and Baghpat Lok Sabha seats that the SP was allocating to the grand old party. The Congress has emphasised that its not about having more seats to contest, but rather about the winnability of seats, said a senior Congress leader, requesting anonymity. After Samajwadi Partys categorical message to the Congress to accept the partys final offer of 17 seats things began moving in Congress that otherwise was busy with Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Besides discussions within the seat-sharing committee, leaders from both parties engaged in dialogue at various levels. Senior Congress leaders including members of the committee got in touch with their Samajwadi Party, including chief general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav and MLC Udaivir Singh, to find a feasible solution. We presented the committees recommendations to the party leadership, and all the finer points were thoroughly discussed at the highest level, said former Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) president Salman Khursheed. Speaking to media persons, AICC general secretary Avinash Pandey expressed his gratitude to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for playing an important role in shaping the alliance. We are grateful to Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for working with dedication and resolve to bring all the forces together to defeat the BJP, he said. The Congress is also making its case for Lakhimpur Kheri and Shravasti seats and leaders of both the parties may soon take a call on the issue. A decision on this will be taken not in respect to sharing of seats but in the interest of alliance in Lok Sabha elections, said Pandey. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, initially considering joining Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Rae Bareli or Amethi, refrained from doing so due to the lack of progress in seat-sharing talks. However, Yadav is now expected to join the yatra in Agra when it resumes its journey from Moradabad. Its worth mentioning that both the SP and the Congress formed an alliance in the 2017 UP assembly elections as well. They jointly campaigned with the slogan UP ko ye saath pasand hai (UP likes this alliance). However, the alliance was unsuccessful, and the Congress only secured seven legislative assembly seats, while the Samajwadi Party won 47 seats. Routine surgeries and procedures are bound to suffer at Sassoon General Hospital (SGH) as resident doctors of BJ Medical College will join the statewide indefinite strike beginning Thursday, 5 pm, announced by the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD). However, emergency services will continue to be provided to ensure essential medical care during the strike, said the doctors. At Sassoon Hospital, treatment is provided to around 2,500 to 3,000 patients on an outpatient department (OPD) basis and over 500 surgeries are performed daily. (HT FILE) At SGH, treatment is provided to around 2,500 to 3,000 patients on an outpatient department (OPD) basis and over 500 surgeries are performed daily. While the strike begins Thursday evening and surgeries will be performed in the morning, all routine surgeries at the hospital post lunch will grind to a halt. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. As per sources, SGH authorities have ordered all heads of departments, professors, doctors and officials on leave to immediately resume services. Doctors and professors have been instructed not to take any leave during the strike. The Pune police have been informed to take preventive measures to avoid any law-and-order issue during the strike. Planned surgeries and health campaigns have been postponed. Heads of departments have been directed to immediately discharge patients who are fit to be discharged. Whereas the strike has been called due to unfulfilled demands and unresolved issues in connection with the living and working conditions of resident doctors. This will be the second such strike by resident doctors in 2024. Despite constructive engagement with the authorities and the latters assurances on Feb 7, regrettably, the commitments made to address the genuine concerns of the resident doctors remain unfulfilled even after two weeks, according to the protesting doctors. The promises including the immediate grant of necessary funds for hostel repairs and construction, regularisation of stipend payments with release of pending stipends and arrears, and a 10k stipend hike, were made in the meeting by deputy chief minister, Ajit Dada Pawar and minister of medical education, Hasan Mushrif Sir. However, the delay in executing these commitments has left us with no choice but to take decisive action to safeguard our rights and uphold our standards of patient care, said the BJMC MARD doctors in their statement. We reiterate that patient care is our utmost priority, and it is with a deep sense of responsibility that we take this step. Our intention is not to disrupt services but to ensure that the authorities fulfil their obligations towards resident doctors, who are the backbone of the healthcare system. We urge the government to act swiftly and earnestly to address our demands within the stipulated time frame. Failure to do so will leave us with no option but to go on strike until justice is served, said Nikhil Gattani, president, MARD BJMC. Dr Vinayak Kale, dean, BJMC and SGH, said that the discussion is underway between the government and resident doctors and hopefully, the strike will not take place. However, they have made adequate arrangements in case the meeting yields no results and the strike does take place. The OPD is not likely to be hampered but all routine and elective surgeries will be hampered. Only emergency surgeries will be performed during the strike. During the strike, we will rope in professors, interns, and nursing students to provide the services, said the dean. The Supreme Court has done well to overturn the results in the Chandigarh mayoral polls and declare the AAP candidate the winner. It also ordered criminal proceedings against the presiding officer, Anil Masih, who had not only subverted the outcome but lied under oath to the SC. Masihs association with the BJP provides the political backdrop to what was a brazen capture of the election process. His fraud he defaced eight ballots and then declared them as invalid delivered the mayors office to his party: The SC described his action, caught on camera, as a murder of democracy. The SC verdict stands out for the promptness of the Courts action and the subtle manner of its intervention; the Court did not quash the election process but restricted itself to the wrongdoings in the counting process and took it upon itself to supervise the recount. The three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said: We are of the view that the court must step in such exceptional circumstances to ensure that the basic democratic mandate is ensured. Earlier, it made a telling remark on the Punjab and Haryana high court (HC), which refused to act against the returning officer: An appropriate interim order was warranted which the HC had failed to pass, in order to protect the purity and sanctity of the electoral process. The SCs action, coming in the wake of its ruling on the electoral bonds scheme where it privileged the right of citizens to know over the privacy of political parties and their donors, will help restore the sanctity of the democratic process. The electoral fallout of the SC verdict may be limited, but it frames the BJP itself in a poor light. The BJPs ambition to win at all costs and hegemonise politics at various levels is understandable, but as the party in office, it has to set an example for others on observing constitutional propriety. That someone as senior as BJP president JP Nadda congratulated the Chandigarh BJP for winning after the brazen mandate-grab sends out a worrying message. Masihs audacious assault on the democratic process could not have been a lone-wolf act, for sure. Despite the low stakes involved in the larger scheme, this was an inconsequential election for an inconsequential post the full conspiracy should be unearthed. Feb 21, 2024 3:25 PM IST TANCET 2024 admit card will be released at 3:30 pm. When available, the direct link to download hall tickets will be shared here. Candidates are advised to keep their login credentials ready. Kangana Ranaut, on Wednesday, heavily criticised Twinkle Khanna for her past comment on men. Twinkle, at an event in December, had joked about turning feminist and her thoughts on men. She had even compared men to plastic bags, which Kangana clearly did not like. Also read: Kangana Ranaut on if she has any plans to become Indias Prime Minister Kangana Ranaut on Twinkle Khanna's old video about feminism. Kangana Ranaut lashes out at Twinkle Kangana came down heavily on Twinkle Khanna and called her a privileged brat. Questioning the former actor's idea of feminism, she said, What are these privileged brats who call their men polythene bags, are they trying to be cool? Nepo kids born with silver spoon, given film careers on golden platters, couldn't do justice to that for sure, least they could do find some joy and fulfilment in selflessness of motherhood that also seems like a curse in their case what exactly do they want to be? Vegetables? Is that feminism? Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Kangana Ranaut react to old video of Twinkle Khanna. What did Twinkle Khanna say? In the old interview, Twinkle was asked how she realised she was a feminist. Giving a hilarious reply, Twinkle had said that her journey to the realisation was mapped backwards. She said that it was her mother, veteran actor Dimple Kapadia who taught her during her growing-up years how women do not need men. Twinkle had said, "We never spoke about feminism or equality or anything. But it was very clear that there was absolutely no need for a man. It would be very nice to have a man, like you would have a nice handbag. But even if you had a plastic bag it would do," she said. "So I grew up with that notion and for a long time I felt that there wasn't much use for them." The Mela actor also said that men are weaker than women by nature. "They lose their hair, start wrapping the four strands, round and round, on their heads. Luckily for most women, they die 10-15 years before us. You have to feel a little sorry for them also," Twinkle said. "So I had to walk backwards that perhaps we (women) are not superior but we are sort of equals. That has been my journey to feminism," she added. Twinkle and her career Twinkle is married to actor Akshay Kumar. They share two children Aarav and Nitara. Twinkle made her acting debut with Barsaat in 1995. Her last film was the 2001 release Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, after which she quit her acting career. In 2015, Twinkle made her debut as an author and last year launched her book, Welcome To Paradise. Kangana, on the other hand, will be seen in Emergency. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow ourWhatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place Yogesh Saini, artist and founder of Delhi Street Art (DSA), one of the citys popular street art groups, passed away on February 19 at the age of 64. Surya Saini, his elder son, tells us, He was getting a check-up done at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital in Patel Nagar when he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away. It was very sudden." Yogesh Saini founded the group, Delhi Street Art in 2013.(Photo: Facebook) Saini, a qualified engineer with a degree in MBA, used to live in the United States before returning to Delhi in 2013, and establishing his street art group. Over the last decade, DSA was instrumental in transforming the Capital's walls into a canvas. For different projects, the group even collaborated with several embassies such as the Australian High Commission, the Netherlands Embassy, the German Embassy, the Danish Embassy, and a delegation from the European Union (EU). More recently, he collaborated with Delhi Tourism to paint a series of murals ahead of the G20 Summit that took place in September 2023. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Saini, a mentor for several aspiring artists, was passionate about his work and didn't restrict it to the streets. Some schools and even prisons turned into canvases of his imagination. So much so that his work was mentioned in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly talk show, Mann Ki Baat, in 2019. For more, follow @htcity.delhijunction New Delhi: Strengthening the partnership with India should be a cornerstone of the European Unions (EU) foreign policy since the country is seen as a consensus builder and as a voice of reason in an increasingly polarised world, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis address at Raisina Dialogue (Twitter/@raisinadialogue) Mitsotakis, who was delivering the keynote address as the chief guest at this years edition of the Raisina Dialogue, challenged the Global Souths perception of Russias invasion of Ukraine as a European war by saying that it represents a brutal challenge to the international rules-based order that India has supported. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Addressing an audience that included Prime Prime Minister Narendra Modi, external affairs minister S Jaishankar and ministers and diplomats from across the world, Mitsotakis pitched for closer ties between his country and India. Greece, uniquely placed between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indo-Pacific, can serve as Indias natural doorstep to Europe through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), he said. Also Read: India an example: Greek PM praises election system Referring to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyens remarks at the Raisina Dialogue two years ago about the priority given by the EU to strengthen the partnership with India, Mitsotakis said, Strengthening our partnership with India...should be a cornerstone of Europes foreign policy, and this certainly true for my country. Greece, which has been a corridor for the exchange of goods and knowledge since ancient times, has excellent relations with Gulf countries and is uniquely placed between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indo-Pacific, can act as an interlocutor between India and Europe, he said. In this context, he pointed to Greeces efforts to privatise more ports and Greek ship-owners controlling the worlds largest merchant marine fleet. The IMEC, he said, holds great promise to supercharge connectivity between India, the Middle East and Europe, with Greece sitting at the centre of this new corridor and serving as Indias natural doorstep to Europe and beyond. While the war in Gaza and the turmoil in the Middle East is destabilising, they have not undermined the logic behind the IMEC. The conflict has given more reasons to promote peace since the IMEC is a peace project that can lead to stability and prosperity for all participants, Mitsotakis said. Describing India as a great power on the world stage and a leading player in the fight against climate change, Mitsotakis said the world is looking to India like never before in shaping the direction of the global debate and addressing great challenges. India, he added, is seen as a consensus builder and as a voice of reason in an increasingly polarised world at a time when the world community cannot overlook the cost of conflicts such as the protracted war in Ukraine and new hostilities in the Middle East accompanied by a horrifying death toll of civilians and the risk of regional destabilisation. Acknowledging that there may be some truth in the Global Souths perception of the Ukraine conflict as a European war, Mitsotakis said: I would like to make the point here in New Delhi that Ukraine is much more than a local war on European soil, it is a brutal challenge to international stability and the international rules-based order that India has supported and has every interest in maintaining. He added, I am convinced that in Ukraine, India has an important role to play, it has a voice that should be heard. Also Read: India, Greece agree to bolster ties as Modi meets Greek counterpart Mitsotakis Mitsotakis also highlighted the threats faced by democracies around the world at a time when half of the global population is set to go to the polls in 64 countries and the EU in 2024. The scale of elections in India challenge any flawed notion that significant scale is a barrier to democracy, and the country is an example that demonstrates democracy can deliver stronger economic growth, which in turn leads to prosperity and strengthens social cohesion, he said. Democracy is not an inconvenient barrier to delivery against contemporary challenges but represents the greatest hope for such delivery. However, democracy is vulnerable and facing profound threats, and countries must be alert to emerging challenges and adaptable enough to address them with real solutions, Mitsotakis said. He characterised artificial intelligence (AI) as a powerful tool for deceptive use by malicious actors who wish to disrupt democratic elections, and stressed the need to regulate the emerging technology. Jaishankar, in his vote of thanks, said India and Greece have a special responsibility to contribute to the evolution of the contemporary global order, and the talks between the two prime ministers on Wednesday had focused on enhancing links between the global economic centres of India and Europe. As India deepens its footprint abroad, Greece has emerged as a favourable destination. Our pharmaceutical industry, our agro-business and aviation are already established there...We expect that a mobility agreement will bring us even closer, he said. Raisina Dialogue is Indias flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics and the theme of the 2024 edition is Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create. Over three days, participants from across the world will focus on six thematic pillars, including regulation of technologies, war and peace, decolonising multilateralism and defending democracy. New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has issued a summons to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, asking her to appear before it on February 26 in connection with its corruption probe in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22, people familiar with the development said on Wednesday. K Kavitha, Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader and daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (File Photo) Kavitha, the daughter of former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, was last questioned by the anti-corruption agency in December 2022, while the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is carrying out a parallel money laundering probe, questioned her in March 2023. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Nitesh Rana, K Kavithas lawyer, refused to comment on the fresh CBI summons to her. The agency is trying to unearth her role in influencing the policy, and her role alleged allegations of paying bribes. It has been alleged that Kavitha was in touch with AAPs (AAP) then-communication in-charge Vijay Nair, who was meeting businessmen from the liquor industry and politicians at the time of policy formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped policy. The central probing agencies have claimed that Delhi-based businessman Sameer Mahendrus Indospirits Group controlled multiple retail zones in Delhi under the excise policy and advanced payment of kickbacks worth Rs.100 crore to the AAP leaders by an alleged South Group of which Kavitha was a member. ED has alleged that a part of the Rs.100 crore kickbacks generated in the Delhi excise policy was used in the AAP campaign in the 2022 Goa assembly election. The South Group comprises YSR Congress MP Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav Magunta, Sarath Reddy (promoter of Aurobindo Group), K Kavitha, and Mahendru. It was represented by Abhishek Boinpally, Arun Pillai and Butchibabu in meetings with Nair and other liquor businessmen. During her questioning with ED in March last year, she was confronted with the statements of Butchibabu Gorantla, her former chartered accountant and Pillai, who represented her interests during multiple meetings with Nair and others. While Butchibabu was arrested by the CBI in February 2023, Pillai was arrested by ED in March. Butchibabu, in his statement recorded before the ED officials in February 2023 stated that There was a political understanding between K Kavitha and the chief minister of Delhi (Arvind Kejriwal) and (former) deputy CM (Manish Sisodia) of Delhi. In that process, K Kavitha also met Vijay Nair on 19th-20th March 2021. Pillai, according to investigators, represented the benami investments of Kavitha. He was allegedly actively involved in cartel formation and was an accomplice in the payment of bribe money on behalf of South Group. The Delhi governments 2021-22 excise policy aimed to revitalize the citys flagging liquor business. It aimed to replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee for traders and promised swankier stores, free of the infamous metal grilles, ultimately giving customers a better buying experience. The policy also introduced discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor, a first for Delhi. The plan, however, came to an abrupt end, with Delhis Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena recommending a probe into alleged irregularities in the regime. This ultimately resulted in the policy being scrapped prematurely and being replaced by the 2020-21 regime, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleging that Saxenas predecessor sabotaged the move with a few last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues. The 'Delhi Chalo' protest march by farmers will be suspended for two days, a farmer leader announced at a press conference on Wednesday. We will have discussions over the incident that took place in Khanauri. There will be a two-day stay on our march towards Delhi. We will clarify the entire situation later as to what our further movement will be, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, head of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, said at a press conference. Farmers protest LIVE coverage The announcement by the farmers comes after the Centre appealed to them for another round of discussions. "Farmers are across the country. While making a policy, it is important to keep in mind the interest of the farmers of the entire country. Keeping this in mind, we will work towards resolving their concerns in the coming days," Union agriculture minister Arjun Munda told PTI. The farmer unions on Wednesday resumed the Delhi Chalo protest march after the fourth round of talks with the Centre had failed. The government panel comprising three Union ministers had proposed the purchase of pulses, maize, and cotton crops by government agencies at MSP for five years after entering into a contract with farmers. But the farm leaders had rejected the proposal. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced a two-day halt to 'Delhi Chalo' protest march.(X/ANI) Security has become a more important element of the European Union (EU)-India partnership in light of developments in the Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea, and both sides are looking to work more closely on hybrid and maritime security, the EUs senior-most diplomat said on Wednesday. Stefano Sannino, secretary general of the European External Action Service Stefano Sannino, secretary general of the European External Action Service, said in an interview that the European side is interested in doing more with India to build on substantial cooperation in the maritime sector, including joint exercises and activities. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Q. We have witnessed forward movement on various strands of the India-EU relationship in the past year. How would you characterise the current state of the relationship? A: I think there is a sense on both sides, in India and the EU, that we have a common interest to develop further our relationship. I think we have a quite solid relationship in a number of areas, economic [matters], progress in trade, but progressively, we are starting to realise the interest [for] more solid relations when it comes to security, to the broader concept of security given the complexity of the crises that the world is facing. Hence, the idea of moving much more in areas like hybrid cyber or maritime security. I think [this is] one of the elements which is characterising this new trend and part of the work that we are doing on the free trade agreement and geographical indications. Again, the trade and economic part has always been solid, but I think that in this area, there is much more. And IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) was a clear example of this new dimension of this new vision of the work that we want to do together. Q. Has the security element become more important in the relationship because of the situation in the Indo-Pacific, what happened in Israel and the need to secure shipping lines and ensure the resilience of supply chains? A. Yeah, definitely. I think that dramatically, we have rediscovered the fact that we are living in an insecure world where security theatres are very closely linked to one another. So, what is happening in the Pacific, the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea or the Mediterranea, is all closely linked and the globalisation of the economy made all our countries much closer. But these interdependencies have also shown our weaknesses and somehow the fragility when some countries or some powers are using this as an element to put pressure to pursue their objectives. I think we have rediscovered the security dimension in a very clear way and now we are trying to go much deeper into the work that we can do together. I think it is something we are doing with all our partners, but certainly, it's one of the things that I want to try to explore more during this visit, which are the areas and the modalities that we can use to strengthen even further this cooperation. Q. There has been cooperation through initiatives like Project Atalanta. Will you be deepening that and increasing the EU's naval presence, working more closely with the Indian Navy? A. We already have quite substantial cooperation in the maritime sector, with joint exercises and joint activities and certainly we are much more interested to do more. We have already started this mechanism of a coordinated maritime presence of the EU, so essentially the military assets of the EU are present in certain areas in a much more structured and coordinated way. That's where we would like to see how we can improve the work with Indian authorities. Certainly, I think the work that we've been doing in certain regions, like in the Gulf of Guinea or in the northwestern Indian Ocean, it's something that we want to replicate and broaden. Q. There's a lot of interest in India on the proposed FTA with the EU, which will be the biggest trade deal that India has done in several years. How would you characterise the current status of negotiations and are there gaps that need to be addressed? A. First of all, we want to have an agreement with India which is ambitious, covers all the different areas and is mutually beneficial. We want to open our markets, we want to ensure greater economic cooperation in a way that we can have the protection of investments [and that] the different components of our economy are all properly reflected. For us, this remains the accessibility to the market and the possibility of enforcing the contents of the agreement. These are the main issues that we are discussing and I think that it is true that both sides want to do it, we want to have the finalised work, but I think it is also important to make sure that the substance is there. I think that, as in all trade negotiations, it's [about] give and take. We must find the balance among the different sectors and different interests. The discussion on the offers, the modalities and enforceability, and also the new elements which are covered by the agreement, including the sustainability component, is an important part of this. CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) is not part of the negotiations but in a way, it's part of the logic we are all committed to, in the context of the work that we do at COP and on the green agenda to reduce the impact of climate change on our societies. I think India is also very acutely aware of this need. What we are trying to do with CBAM is to create conditions that are positive not only for us but also for third countries...There are different approaches, but we are all converging into the area that we want to support and help the economic transition towards a green economy, which is able to produce wealth for our people but also sustainable for the environment. Q. The Trade and Technology Council (TTC) has become another important forum for cooperation. What are the focus areas where there's going to be a breakthrough soon? A. I think of the three main pillars of technology, digital and green trade, certainly the one concerning digital is something which is very interesting because it's an area where India is extremely strong. It has enormous potential in terms of capacity to contribute. We think in this area we can do more, especially when it comes to critical technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence, but also the work that we are doing to imagine different ways of producing these technologies or products which are not yet there. The innovation element and component are still very important, we are making huge efforts in the EU to reduce our critical dependencies. It goes through the diversification of supply chains, but it goes also through the innovation and creation of new products. That's where I think the cooperation with India could be extremely interesting. Q. Is there interest in Europe for the digital infrastructure that India has produced, including for digital payments? Would you be interested in working with India to forge norms for AI? A. For the first, yes, in the sense that we are all pushing towards a greater digitalisation of our economies and I think that [India has] made huge progress in this area. There is an interest not only to compare experiences but to be able to benefit from what has been done in India. As far as AI is concerned, definitely yes, we have already started to define the elements or norms around AI, but this is something that needs to be done at the world scale. That's why, especially with [India], we would be more interested to do more work in this direction. AI has enormous potential for our economies and different sectors like health. But it is also true that, unfortunately, it can become a very powerful instrument if not used in the proper way, and this is the appeal that has been made by a number of experts and companies in the sector that are pushing for better regulation of this without hampering the development of the capacity of AI. Q. You are here days before the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. Do you feel what has happened in West Asia has taken attention away from this crisis? How do you look at the position of countries in the Global South that have said this is really not their problem? A. I think it's very difficult for any of us to say the crisis we are facing in Ukraine is not a global problem, not least because the consequences are felt globally. We need to continue looking at what is happening there and to be able to come to a just and sustainable solution. I'm not shying away from saying that for Europe, this is certainly an existential threat. It's a direct attack on a sovereign country whose aspiration was to get closer to the EU. We believe that Russian imperialism is something that is very dangerous for [countries] that are territorially so close to Russia. So it's for us, I repeat, an existential threat. But the consequences are also felt globally. It's a little bit difficult to say we are not interested in what is happening there. There is an effort being led by Ukrainian authorities to push for a peace conference. There have been many meetings already, in which India has participated in a constructive way. We need to continue working in that direction, but at the same time, we also need to make sure that Russia is not creating a situation on the ground, through the use of force, that is impossible to repair. We will continue to support Ukraine to achieve its aim of territorial integrity, to be a sovereign country which is in charge of its own choices and there is a determination on our side to continue to do so. Now, the crisis in the Middle East and what is happening in Gaza is certainly an element which is adding problems to a problem. Unfortunately, we will need to do both things. We need to see how to also get out of the crisis in the Middle East. But this does not mean that we will not remain focused on what is happening in Ukraine. Q. Do you think IMEC has been one of the casualties of what has happened in West Asia? A. At this moment, this is an element which is disturbing the project. I dont know if I would call it collateral damage, but I still believe the interest in IMEC continues to be there, and the importance of the project exists. We continue to be committed to working together with all the partners to see how this can be developed. Let's work in order to have this crisis over as soon as possible so that we can think more about the future and how to construct a better and more secure future for all our societies. Former U.S. Representative Denny Rehberg launched his bid Wednesday to return to the House where he served in the 2000s. Rehberg, a Billings native, held Montana's at-large House seat from 2001 through 2012. He is the eighth GOP candidate seeking to replace Republican Rep. Matt Rosendale in Montana's Eastern District. In a press release, Rehberg, 68, said he wanted "to ensure there is a country left for our grandkids." Rehberg, a Republican who claimed to roll out a bedroll and overnight in his House office for his entire tenure, unsuccessfully challenged Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester in, 2012, losing by 18,764 votes. A real estate developer who once raised cashmere goats, Rehberg served as lieutenant governor to both Stan Stephens and Marc Racicot. His first D.C. gig was in the 1970s working for Eastern District Rep. Ron Marlenee. Two weeks ago, Rehberg told Politico that acquaintances encouraged him to run for Montana's second House seat because a poll indicated he had enough name recognition to win the race. With so many candidates, the Eastern District Republican primary could be won with as little as 12.5% of the vote, depending on distribution. Winners of Montana's two most recent six-candidate primaries both won with a little more than a 33% vote share. The winner of the crowded Republican primary will be strongly favored to win the general election. Eastern Montana voters have given Republican congressional candidates victory margins of 20% or better over the last two decades. Other candidates in the Republican primary were quick to spar with Rehberg. Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen, who made her candidacy official Feb. 10, slapped a Trumpian nickname on the former representative, RINO Rehberg. RINO being the acronym for Republican in name only. Montana can smell a RINO from a mile away. Denny Rehberg spent his time in Congress acting like a Democrat by refusing to stand for conservative values and voting for MASSIVE overspending of our taxpayer dollars, Arntzen said in a press release. "Montanans don't want Liz Cheney with a mustache," Arntzen said on X. Ed Walker, a former state legislator from Billings, took a preemptive strike six days before Rehberg announced, calling Rehberg a D.C. lobbyist determined to return to the swamp of Congress. Rehberg was, in his day, considered extremely conservative. He ended his tenure opposing the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare, and eschewing the practice of directing federal spending to projects in Montana through congressional earmarks. Heritage Action, the hard right political arm of the Heritage Foundation gave Rehberg a lifetime score of 53% for casting votes the way Heritage preferred more than half the time. The biggest splits between Heritage and Rehberg concerned spending priorities important to Montana that Heritage opposed, such as federally subsidized commercial flights, farm subsidies and highway spending. Rehberg also clashed with conservatives over bills that kept the federal government fully funded and avoided government shutdowns. The former congressmans work-related exploits are infamous. A 2009 alcohol-fueled boat crash onto a boulder on the banks of Flathead Lake left Rehberg with broken bones and severely injured members of his staff. The boat was piloted by former state Sen. Greg Barkus, whose blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit. The incident raised questions about Rehbergs judgement. In 2004, Roll Call reported that a congressional junket to Kazakhstan ended poorly with Rehberg falling from his horse, sometime after referring to the locals as coneheads. Nine people on the trip would later sit down with Roll Call in the office of then Montana U.S. Sen. Conrad Burns to debunk details of story, lowering the amount of alcohol the congressman consumed from the 20 shots stated in an anonymous email, to just six shots consumed over a couple of hours. Roll Call noted the six shots, witnessed by First, Col. Arthur White, the Senates Marine Liaison, was two more than Rehberg confessed to having; and six more than Rehbergs press secretary first asserted his boss had consumed. Rehberg has also struggled recently in business. Two years ago, his family owned six restaurants in Montana including three in Billings, a Burger King and two Popeyes chicken outlets. All have since been closed. The two times that Rehberg ran for U.S. Senate created political steppingstones for the people who replaced him. When Rehberg opted to challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Max Baucus in 1996, instead of remaining Racicots lieutenant governor, he was replaced by Judy Martz who four years later became the only woman elected governor in Montana. When Rehberg chose to run against Tester in 2012, Montanas at large House seat was won by Steve Daines, who two years later was elected to the U.S. Senate. The situation at the Punjab-Haryana's Shambhu and Khanauri state border points turned intense after a clash between protesting farmers and Haryana police when the former tried to break the barricades amid their "Delhi Chalo" march and the police fired tear gas shells to disperse them. Farmers protesting(HT photo) Follow Farmers' protest LIVE Updates Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to the Haryana police officials, the protesting farmers surrounded the police personnel deployed at the Datta Singh-Khanauri border point and started burning stubble mixed with chill powder. They even attacked the security personnel with sticks and maces and pelted stones, seriously injuring at least 12 policemen. "At the Data Singh-Khanori border, the protesters surrounded the police personnel from all sides and burned stubble by pouring chilli powder in it, attacked the policemen using sticks and maces along and also pelted stones. About 12 policemen were seriously injured. We appeal to the protesters for peace," a Haryana police official said in a video message. Meanwhile, 12 protesters were injured at Khanauri border, the farm leaders said. Of 12, two farmers' condition is said to be critical, they added. On Wednesday, a 24-year-old protester succumbed to his injuries after a clash with the Haryana Police on the border. Shubh Karan Singh was taken to the hospital where he died, the hospital sources confirmed. The clash took place in a major escalation of the protest which has been going on since February 13 with the farmers announcing a march to Delhi which was stopped and the protesters were not allowed to enter Haryana from Punjab. Read here: 24-year-old farmer dies amid clash with Haryana police at Khanauri border Meanwhile the farm leaders have said that the protest would continue until their demands are fulfilled. "This movement will continue, a solution can be found only through dialogue... SKM (Samyukt Kisan Morcha) will meet tomorrow and decide what to do, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait said to the reporters. Further, the Punjab Police has urged the farmers to stay calm and the Haryana police to not to use force. In view of ongoing dialogue between Farmers and Centre, all are requested to maintain peace and harmony. Protestors should be peaceful and not rush at Haryana Barricades and Haryana Police is requested not to use force, the state police said in a post on X. Meanwhile, union agriculture minister Arjun Munda said that the centre is open to hold 5th round of talks with the protesting farmers to discuss all the issues. I have requested farmers to talk in an atmosphere of peace and find solutions through dialogue. I believe in this nation, we have always solved complex issues through dialogue, and we want to solve this problem also through a positive dialogue. It is true that in our past meetings, we failed to come to a conclusion, but I am hopeful that we will find a solution to the farmers' problem in the coming days, he said. After the fourth round of talks ended in a stalemate, the farmers resumed their March on Wednesday morning. On February 19, the farmer leaders rejected the Centre's proposal on MSP purchase, saying "not in farmer's favour". Read here: Farmers protest: Protesters set to break barricades at Shambhu border, police shells tear gas The SKM and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the government to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP for crops, pension for farmers and farm labourers and farm loan waiver. (With inputs from agencies) Farmers' Protest highlights: Farmers from across multiple states have resumed the Delhi Chalo march on Wednesday. Meanwhile, heavy security is deployed across the national capital to prevent any disturbances during the protest. Farmer leaders from Punjab and Haryana previously halted the farmers' protest on Sunday evening after the fourth round of talks with Union Ministers. The leaders had warned earlier that they will resume their march to Delhi if their demands are not met by the Centre by February 21....Read More Farmer leaders taking part in agitation on Monday rejected the Centre's proposal of procuring pulses, maize and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers' interest and announced that they will march towards the national capital on Wednesday. As the farmers gear up to continue their protests today, the government has estimated that nearly 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses as well as small vehicles as part of the farmers protest. The Centre also condemned the Punjab government for allowing this potential lapse in the law and order situation in the state. Farmers protests key highlights - West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday condemned the death of 24-year-old protesting farmer on Khanauri border in Haryana, calling it gross human rights violations. ZAMINDARS in all ages have always oppressed the poor and subjugated them to brute force. But never before has an ELECTED GOVERNMENT KILLED INNOCENT FARMERS PROTESTING FOR THEIR RIGHTS, the Trinamool Congress chief posted on social media platform X. Farmers protest LIVE coverage After lying & mistreating our farmers for 10 years, the BJP government is now KILLING THEM WITH IMPUNITY. The concerning developments at Khanauri border indicate gross human rights violations & endanger our democracy, Banerjee added. ALSO READ: Farmers' protest turns violent with 1 death, Punjab CM says Prez rule attempt. 10 points The West Bengal chief minister's attack on BJP comes hours after Shubh Karan Singh, a protesting farmer, died of injuries received during clash with Haryana Police on Khanauri border. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal vowed strict punishment for the farmer's killers. Punjab youth Shubh Karan's death is really sad. Did we fight for freedom to see elected governments kill our sons just like the British did? We stand with Shubh Karan and will ensure stern punishment to his killers, the Aam Aadmi Party convenor said in an X post. Kejriwal's party colleague and Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann said he will file an FIR to probe how the farmer died in the protest. The death of youth is a result of the high handedness of the Union and Haryana government, Mann said in a statement. The CM said he had tried his level best to ensure that the farmers and youth do not face the bullets, water cannons, tear shells and others. Jind, Feb 21 (ANI): Farmers during their 'Delhi Chalo' march at the Khanauri Border in Jind on Wednesday. (ANI) Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the death of a 24-year-old farm protester on Khanauri border. Extremely saddened with the death of young farmer Shubh Karan Singh in firing on Khanauri border. I extend my condolences to his family. Modi's arrogance had led to sacrifices by more than 700 farmers last time. Now, it has become an enemy of their lives once again, Gandhi posted on X. History will seek account of farmers' killings from the BJP one day, the Congress leader added. Farmers' protest LIVE coverage Smoke rises from tear gas being fired upon the protesting farmers during their 'Delhi Chalo' march, near the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, in Patiala district, (PTI) Singh succumbed to his injuries at a government hospital in Punjab's Patiala following a clash with the Haryana Police on Khanauri border. Two elderly farmers had died of cardiac arrest during the ongoing agitation last week. The Haryana Police had lobbed tear gas shells to disperse the farm protesters when they tried to move towards the barricades set up to stall their march to the national capital. The Haryana Police alleged that the protesting farmers surrounded police personnel and started burning stubble mixed with chilli powder. The farmers allegedly attacked the cops with sticks and maces and pelted stones, resulting in injuries to 12 police personnel. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Later in the evening, the farmer unions announced that the protest will be halted for two days. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher told reporters at Shambhu that they will decide the next course of action on Friday evening. Punjab farmers at Khanauri and Shambhu had resumed their agitation early in the morning after a two-day lull following the fourth round of talks on Sunday night with a panel of three Union ministers in an attempt to break the deadlock. "Farmers are across the country. While making a policy, it is important to keep in mind the interest of the farmers of the entire country. Keeping this in mind, we will work towards resolving their concerns in the coming days," Union agriculture minister Arjun Munda said. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: Thousands of farmers from Punjab will resume their 'Delhi Chalo' march today, to press for their demand of MSP support for all crops. The protesting farmers, who are currently camping at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu border, announced resumption of the agitation on Tuesday after the fourth round of talks with the central government failed. The march is expected to affect life in Delhi and its surrounding areas because security checkpoints set by the authorities to stop the protesting farmers might trigger traffic chaos. Protesting farmers bring heavy machinery, including hydraulic cranes and earthmovers, to Shambhu on the Punjab-Haryana border.(ANI) Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday said there will be a thorough investigation into the death of the 24-year-old farmer Shubh Karan Singh by the Haryana Police during a clash at the Khanauri border. Mann said his government will stand by the farmers and won't bow down even if there are 100 threats of President's Rule in Punjab. Following the death, the protesters announced that the 'Delhi Chalo' march will be paused for two days as the leaders need to chart out the future course of action. Punjab farmers resumed their march from the Punjab-Haryana border only to face the defence from the Haryana security forces. One young farmer died on Wednesday. Farmers' protest death, pause in Delhi Chalo: Here are top 10 updates 1. Several farmers and cops were injured as the protest turned violent at the Shambhu and Khanauri border on Wednesday. The farmers who started their Chalo Delhi march on February 13 have been camping at Punjab borders after being thwarted by the Haryana Police. They decided to start their march on Wednesday after the talks with the central team did not find any breakthrough. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. 2. The Haryana Police dropped tear gas shells as the farmers on Wednesday announced that they would break the barricades put up by the Haryana Police to stop them from entering the state. 3. Police said farmers pelted stones, set stubble adding chilli powder. Several cops were injured because of the farmers' aggression, the Haryana Police said. 4. The deceased farmer, Shubh Karan Singh, was a resident of Bathinda, son of Charanjit Singh. He was taken to the hospital with a severe head injury where he succumbed. Haryana Police, however, neither confirmed the death nor any firing by the cops at the protesters. They said they used tear gas to disperse the protesters. Farmers said the Haryana Police fired rubber bullets apart from tear gas. 5. The violence became a Punjab versus Haryana issue once again as Bhagwant Mann questioned why the Haryana government was attacking farmers in the territory of Punjab. 6. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condoled the death of Shubh Karan Singh and said one day history will demand an account of 'killing of farmers' from the BJP hiding behind 'friendly media'. 7. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said that they will decide the next course of action on Friday evening and till then the march will be halted. 8. The farmers gathered earth movers, excavators and tractors at the two border points and were ready to demolish the police's defence. The farmers were armed with masks against tear gas but the death of a protester put a temporary pause to the march. 9. Bharatiya Kisan Union (Charuni) will block major roads in every district of Haryana for two hours on Thursday from 12 noon to 2pm protesting against the death of the young farmer. 10. In the last meeting, the Central team proposed buying five crops -- moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton -- from farmers at MSP for five years through central agencies. The farmers rejected the proposal. Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Wednesday passed a bill to ban hookah bars throughout the state. The legislation comes with strict penalties including imprisonment ranging from one to three years and fines up to 1 lakh for those found violating the prohibition. The ban was implemented after amending the existing Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act , aiming to safeguard public health and combat tobacco-related diseases (Getty images/stock photo) The decision to implement the ban was made after amending the existing Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), aiming to safeguard public health and combat tobacco-related diseases. The move reflects the governments commitment to creating smoke-free environments and protecting citizens from the harmful effects of tobacco use. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The state has also raised the minimum age for purchasing cigarettes and other tobacco products to 21 years. This measure aligns with efforts to curb underage smoking and promote healthier lifestyles among the youth. In addition to banning hookah bars, the amended bill enforces a blanket prohibition on the use of tobacco products in public places. The government has also imposed restrictions on the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco items within a 100-metre radius of educational institutions with violators facing fines of 1,000. Priyank Kharge, a minister in the state government and Congress leader, emphasised the governments decision as a necessary step to protect public health and maintain law and order, particularly concerning the growing number of young individuals frequenting hookah bars. It is a decision that the government has taken. There are a lot of youngsters, in their teens, who are found in these places. The government, in the interest of health and law and order, have taken this decision, he said. Earlier this month, on February 2, the Karnataka government issued a notification officially prohibiting the sale, consumption, storage, advertisement, and promotion of all hookah products across the state. This notification has been made into law with the amendment. The directive, issued by the health and family welfare department, pointed out significant health risks associated with hookah bars. Citing concerns about the transmission of communicable diseases such as herpes, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and Covid-19 due to direct oral contact, the notification also highlights fire safety hazards and violations of fire safety norms posed by these establishments. In general, the sale, consumption, and advertising of hookah products known as hookah tobacco or nicotine-containing nicotine-free tobacco-free, flavoured, unflavoured hookah molasses, shisha and other similar names and the producing, procuring, trading of the same has been banned with immediate effect in the interest of public health in the state, the directive added. The state health department highlighted that hookah is a product that is consumed orally through a nozzle or pipe device in a sealed container. The consumption of hookah spreads infectious diseases like herpes, tuberculosis, hepatitis, Covid-19 and other diseases through the mouth, it said. According to the government order, the ban falls under the purview of several existing regulations, including the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), Child Protection and Welfare Act, Food Safety and Standards Act, and Karnataka Poisons (Possession and Sale) Rules, 2015. Violators will face penalties as per the provisions outlined in these laws. Weeks before the Lok Sabha polls, Congress Working Committee member Mahendrajeet Singh Malviyas joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come as a jolt to Congress and created a vacuum in the tribal-dominated Dungarpur-Banswara (Vagad) region in southeastern Rajasthan. While political experts believe that for the BJP, Malviyas entry will boost its prospects in the tribal regions of Banswara and Dungarpur. The Congress leaders admit that the party will have to find a new leader in the tribal belt, where the Bharatiya Adivasi Party (BAP) had made inroads in the recently concluded assembly polls. Malviya was the front-runner for the Dungarpur-Banswara Lok Sabha seat, and now the Congress will need to look for another strong tribal leader to counter Malviya. Four-time MLA from Bagidora, Malviya, a CWC member, is among the most prominent tribal leaders in Rajasthan. He has vast political experience having contested polls from sarpanch and district panchayat to state assembly and the Lok Sabha. Malviya, who began his career in student politics with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), joined the Congress. As he joined the BJP on Monday at the state party office, Malviya said that his decision was because he saw no other alternative to the party, and highlighted the significance of the double-engine government for development. He also raised the demand to make the Mangadh Dham, a tribal pilgrimage place, a national monument. Mangadh Dham is a tribal memorial in Banswara in memory of hundreds of tribals who were massacred by the British in 1913 after a revolt. BJP leaders aware of the development claim that Malviyas entry into the party is a strategic move to bolster their presence in tribal areas. In the nine assembly segments in Banswara and Dungarpur, the BJP won only two seats while the Congress won five and the Bharatiya Adivasi Party (BAP) won two in the December assembly election. Malviya is likely to be the BJP Lok Sabha candidate for the seat. Malviya also aired his unhappiness with the Congress saying the party does not have any long-term vision. Congress leaders said that Malviyas disenchantment with the Congress was a matter of speculation for the past several months. When the BJP came to power, he expected to be made the leader of the opposition. However, that post went to Dalit leader Tikaram Jully from Alwar. Malviya was also unhappy with not getting any prominent position in the Rajasthan Congress government led by chief minister Ashok Gehlot. While lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Malviya said he was hurt by the Congresss boycott of the Ram Mandir pratishthan. I am a follower of Sanatana Dharma. I worship gods and goddesses, he said. Commenting on Malviyas switching, Congress president Govind Singh Dotsara said, I want to say that there will be no impact of such people leaving the party. The party will further strengthen because last time (2013) in assembly polls, he won and the rest all lost, then there were complaints that he worked against other (party) candidates. He gave clarification and assured me that wont do it again. He added that similar complaints were received in the assembly polls. His conduct has been suspicious for years but the party considered him thinking that he is a tribal leader and working for the party. But this time, he realised that there was no place for him in the Congress, wouldnt get any ticket as a Member of Parliament and seeing no future in Congress he chose to join BJP. Dotasara said, I believe there will be no loss to the party if a person of such conduct leaves the party; rather the party will get strengthened and new leadership will come up. By making Congress people join BJP, the saffron party is trying to create a perception in the country that Congress is weak and people should vote for BJP. He was even made a CWC member. He had said that Congress is his mother and he will never leave the party. But today he has joined BJP which shows his mass support is weakening and he is trying to regain, he said. Political commentator Manish Godha said, For BJP, Malviyas entry will boost its prospects in the tribal region of Banswara and Dungarpur. The party failed to perform up to the mark in the assembly election in the region. Security has emerged as a more important element in the European Union (EU)-India partnership in light of developments in the Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea and both sides are looking to work more closely on hybrid and maritime security, the EUs senior-most diplomat said on Wednesday. Twitter Photo Stefano Sannino, secretary general of the European External Action Service, said in an interview that the European side is interested in doing more with India to build on substantial cooperation in the maritime sector, including joint exercises and activities. He said the EU is looking to replicate and to broaden its coordinated maritime presence in regions such as the Gulf of Guinea and the northwestern Indian Ocean by working with India. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Recent developments in the Pacific, the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea where there has been a string of attacks on merchant vessels by Yemens Houthi rebels have shown the weaknesses created by globalisation, especially when some countries or some powers attempt to use pressure to pursue their objectives, Sannino said. I think we have rediscovered the security dimension in a very clear way and now we are trying to go much deeper into the work that we can do together, he said, adding he would explore areas and modalities that can be used to strengthen this cooperation with India during his current visit. While there has been considerable progress in various strands of the EU-India partnership, such as economic matters, negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) and technology cooperation, Sannino said both sides are starting to realise the need for more solid relations when it comes to security at a time of complex crises. This has led to the idea of doing much more in areas like hybrid or cyber or maritime security, he said. With India and the EU launching the seventh round of negotiations on a proposed FTA this week, Sannino said the European side wants an agreement that is ambitious and also opens up markets. The EU also wants the protection of investments. I think that, as in all trade negotiations, it's [about] give and take. We must find the balance among the different sectors and different interests, he said. While the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) or a tariff on carbon-intensive products isn't part of these negotiations, it is part of the logic to support an economic transition towards a green economy that is able to produce wealth while being sustainable for the environment, he said. India is only the second country, after the US, with which the EU has established a Trade and Technology Council (TTC) to cooperate on cutting-edge technologies and Sannino said the digital pillar of this initiative is the one with enormous potential for collaboration. We think...in this area, we can do more, especially when it comes to critical technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI), but also the work that we are doing to imagine different ways of producing these technologies or products which are not yet there, he said, adding this work dovetails with the EUs efforts to reduce critical dependencies and diversify supply chains. With Sanninos visit to New Delhi coming days ahead of the second anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, he said it is very difficult for any of us to say that the crisis...in Ukraine is not a global problem, not least because the consequences are felt globally. The crisis represents an existential threat to Europe, which believes Russian imperialism is something that is very dangerous for us, he added. It's a little bit difficult to say we are not interested in what is happening there. There is an effort being led by the Ukrainian authorities to push for a peace conference. There have been many meetings already, in which India has participated in a constructive way. We need to continue working in that direction, Sannino said. At the same time, the EU will continue supporting Ukraine to achieve its goal of territorial integrity and to be a sovereign country in charge of its own choices. Kolkata: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikaris alleged Khalistani directed at an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Sikh community triggered protests in several parts of West Bengal on Wednesday. IPS officer Jaspreet Singh has alleged that he was called a Khalistani by a BJP leader in Sandeshkhali, a charge thats been denied. (Source: X) Members of the community protested outside the Bengal BJP headquarters at Muralidhar S IPS officer Jaspreet Singh en Lane in central Kolkata on Tuesday night, hours afterlost his cool on being called a Khalistani, allegedly by Adhikari, when the latter was stopped from going to the trouble-torn Sandeshkhali area in North 24 Parganas district. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Sandeshkhali-2 community block is in news because of allegations of torture and sexual assault raised by women from some villages against three local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders of whom two have been arrested. You are calling me a Khalistani because I am wearing a turban. Is this your level? If a policeman wears turban and does his duty he becomes Khalistani? Is this your level? Singh, a special superintendent in the intelligence branch, could be heard telling members of the BJP team in a raised tone. I am not saying anything about your religion. Even you cant say anything about mine. Did anyone say anything about your religion? Then why are you do it? Singh told the BJP leaders. Adhikari could be heard telling the officer: The remarks were not against you. Also Read: Surprise that hes still on the run, says Calcutta HC on TMCs Sheikh Shahjahan Although Sikhs comprise only around .07% of Bengals population of 91.3 million according to the 2011 census, the community has a strong presence in business and social welfare activities in Kolkata and some of the major district towns such as Asansol, Durgapur, Kharagpur and Siliguri. Since Tuesdays incident was covered live by several television channels, some video clips went viral on social media, triggering strong reaction from other parts of the country as well. On Wednesday, Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann joined chief minster Mamata Banerjee in condemning the incident. In a post on his X handle Mann called the incident extremely unfortunate. The BJP perhaps does not know the sacrifices made by the Punjabis in getting freedom for India and preserving it. The BJP should apologise to the Punjabis, Mann said in Punjabi. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also spoke in support of Singh, a 2016-batch IPS officer who has served in several districts of the state. Singh was sent to Sandeshkhali on Tuesday to maintain law and order and ensure that prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) - which bars assembly of five or more people at one location- was not violated. BJP leaders were earlier stopped by the authorities from entering the region. Adhikari, who is the leader of the opposition in the state legislative assembly, was allowed to enter Sandeshkhali on Tuesday after the Calcutta high court ordered relaxation of the prohibitory orders and allowed his movement. Hours after the exchange of words, Supratim Sarkar, additional director general of police of south Bengal, said: The leader of opposition raised his finger and directly accused Singh of being a Khalistani. This is not just condemnable but is also a punishable offence under section 295A of Indian Penal Code (IPC). We will take all legal steps. This is just unacceptable. Accompanied by Sarkar, Bengals director general of police Rajeev Kumar visited Sandeshkhali on Wednesday but did not say until evening if any case had been registered against Adhikari. The Bengal BJP has not commented on the row. On Tuesday, Adhikari denied the allegation against him. The officer behaved rudely. I dont think any personal remarks were made either by me or my colleagues. Mamata Banerjee does cheap politics and this officer wants to increase his marks before her. We havent said anything attacking any community, Adhikari told reporters. Editor's note: This is the first part of a two-part series on Indigenous maternal healthcare in South Dakota. On a small, triangle-shaped reservation in the northeast corner of South Dakota, a nondescript one-story beige building in the middle of the small city of Sisseton serves the healthcare needs of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate. The Couteau Des Prairies Health Care System, a 25-bed, nonprofit hospital, is the only inpatient resource for the entire reservation and was the only hospital with a functioning OB-GYN Department. But as of February, the hospital no longer provides specialized womens healthcare. The Coteau Des Prairies Health Care System looked at what would be best for the patients and the competency that our staff and obstetrics provider had, said Craig Kantos, chief executive officer of the CDP Hospital. We had one obstetrics provider and he was leaving. The days of having one OB provider who is on call 24/7 arent feasible anymore. The closure of the only OB-GYN hospital program serving the Lake Traverse Reservation illustrates the many challenges facing healthcare providers fighting against disproportionate rates of Indigenous infant and maternal mortality. Over three-quarters of Coteau Des Prairies patients are Indigenous, Kantos said. In 2023, 45 babies, most of whom are Indigenous, were born there. Each and every baby is listed on the hospitals website with their name, birthday and a photo. While there is another medical facility in Sisseton, the Indian Health Service-operated Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Care Center is only an outpatient clinic not equipped for emergency births or specialized care. The reservation, which borders North Dakota and Minnesota, is the home of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate two bands of Santee Dakota people forcibly relocated from their homelands in southern Minnesota. Situated over 90 miles from any large city, the reservation is a rural area with few opportunities for specialized medical care. With the closure of Coteau Des Prairies OB-GYN services, women looking for specialized care on the Lake Traverse Reservation now have to travel either to Watertown or Sioux Falls, South Dakota, or to Fargo, North Dakota. Such a long commute is one of the hallmarks of a maternal healthcare desert, an issue affecting many rural areas across South Dakota and the United States. Nearly 25% of South Dakota women live over 30 minutes away from a birthing hospital compared to a 10% nationwide average. Western South Dakota reservations experience abnormally long commute times to birthing centers, sometimes over 118 miles, or 128 minutes. A lack of access to specialized maternal healthcare has been shown to lead to higher rates of poor birthing outcomes such as preterm births and infant and maternal mortality. Indigenous women in South Dakota already experience disproportionate rates of negative birth outcomes. According to the South Dakota Department of Public Health, Indigenous women accounted for 46% of the pregnancy-associated deaths in the state from 2012-2021, despite accounting for only 9% of the states total population. The DOH noted that the leading causes of death include motor vehicle accidents, unintentional overdoses and suicide. While access to specialized care decreases, birth rates on reservations continue to rise. On the Lake Traverse Reservation, the birth rate was 1.5 times higher than the United States average and the rate of births among women ages 25-29 is double the United States average. On the Standing Rock Reservation, where some women experience commutes of over 118 miles to the nearest birthing center, the rate of births is 20 percent higher than the national average. After deciding to close the Coteau Des Prairies OB-GYN Department, Kantos said hospital administrators reached out to representatives from local and tribal police departments, emergency services, the local IHS clinic and all hospitals between Watertown and Fargo to inform them. We met with the goal of discussing what we do in inclement weather. In some parts of the state the interstate closes periodically, and weve been told that if we need to get people out we can, Kantos said. Weve asked the tribe about potential hotel vouchers for tribal families who need to leave in inclement weather, but we havent heard back about if thats doable or not. When it comes to emergency births and the need to drive over an hour to receive care, many Indigenous people are less likely to have a reliable form of transportation. With an increased need to travel for specialized OB-GYN services, tribally operated resources are bracing for an increase in home births and support. Were taking steps to adapt to this. One of the changes were planning for is having some of my core visitors including myself become doulas and attend doula training, said Leona Iyarpeya, a Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate citizen and manager of her tribes Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. I think were pretty prepared, but I do see that number increasing and hitting the 40 marker as one of our services is transportation. Iyarpeyas program provides items like phone cards, diapers and support services, as well as transportation to pregnant women, expectant fathers and parents, and caregivers of children under 5 years old. Families dont need to be enrolled citizens to benefit from the program. Travel itself poses a risk to mothers seeking healthcare. Not only is cost often an issue, but travel-related deaths are a risk not accounted for in the maternal mortality rate. Typically when we determine maternal mortality, we dont consider accidents, said Dr. Lyle Best, a former healthcare physician who worked with the Great Plains Area Indian Health Service for over two decades. If youre pregnant and youre in a car accident and die, thats not maternal mortality. (In the 1990s) we had a situation in Indian Health Services where a woman was being transferred to Sioux Falls and the plane crashed. The woman was killed and the pilot was badly wounded. Is that considered maternal mortality? She wouldnt have been on the plane if she wasnt pregnant. Obstetrics doesnt generate a lot of revenue for hospitals, especially those in rural communities. Kantos said 45 babies were born at Coteau Des Prairies in 2023, and the hospital only had one obstetrics provider during that time. Half of the counties in the United States lack an obstetrics provider, according to a report from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Its difficult for many rural places to provide obstetrics services. It doesnt generate a lot of money, and its hard to find physicians who want to work in a small town and take on that added responsibility, Best said. Obstetrics is a terrifying experience, it generally goes well and its a happy time but as someone who has been there for hundreds of deliveries, your stomach is in a bit of butterflies trying to think of what would happen if, heaven forbid, you lost either the baby or the mother. While maternal mortality rates continue to rise across the United States, Indigenous mothers remain the most at risk of dying during or after pregnancy. Indigenous mothers across the United States are two times more likely to die from pregnancy complications than white mothers, according to the CDC. Hypertensive disorders such as pre-eclampsia are the leading cause of maternal deaths in developed countries. Pre-eclampsia affects between 5-8% of all pregnancies. Indigenous people are rarely included in studies focused on pre-eclampsia. Research in general is limited when it comes to Indigenous mothers and pregnancy complications. Best is currently working to research conditions like pre-eclampsia, though hes faced barriers when obtaining records and data in areas with large Indigenous populations. What is known about the increased risk that Indigenous mothers face when giving birth is that the social environment plays a major role. Living in a rural community with a lack of reliable transportation, specialized services and social deprivation affect the population deeply. The medical environment can sometimes lead to perhaps having less than adequate care through either Indian Health Services or other facilities they may depend on, and theres probably some implicit bias or racism involved in the medical decisions that get made, Best said. But it doesnt take a genius to understand that the American Indian maternal mortality rate is not in line with their portion of the South Dakota population. As Coteau Des Prairies discontinues its obstetrics services, Kantos emphasized that a majority of medical needs can be covered by family medicine. Even though obstetrics will be closed, we will still do general OB-GYN services. Well still continue with the full gambit of family medicine and wellness checks. We know we can still do it, Kantos said. Recent reports of China settling people in the villages called Xiaokang (well-off villages) along its border with India are disturbing. Since 2019, China has been constructing villages (double-storey, large, and expansive buildings) along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. This Chinese action is not some ad-hoc activity. Xiaokangs are being constructed from a strategic perspective as part of the Chinese land borders law (LBL) that came into force on January 1, 2022. China enacted the LBL after the Doklam clashes. It signals Chinas resolve to settle land border disputes with countries like India on its terms and emphasises civilians cooperating with Chinas Peoples Liberation Army in land border defence. This law is part of Chinas broader and long-term strategy of legal warfare or lawfare, which Charles Dunlap defines as a method of warfare where law is used as a means of realising a military objective. China has a long history of lawfare (or falu zhan), using domestic and international law to shape the legal context to support State actions. As American scholar Orde Kittrie writes in his book, Lawfare: Law as a Weapon of War, China has a long history of gaming the international legal system for its benefit. An essential component of Chinese lawfare is legal preparation of the battlefield. Jill Goldenziel argues that China uses the law to create facts on the ground that can influence a conflict. For example, in the South China Sea, the Chinese have been aggressive against the Philippines to propel what is known as a nine-dash line narrative, which, according to China, gives it historical rights in areas that fall under the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). So, in areas that fall under the Philippiness EEZ, China, employing its coast guard law, started massive construction work transforming underwater reefs into above-sea artificial islands with runways and control towers. Chinas eventual objective was to use these islands for military purposes. Thus, China was clearly creating facts on the ground to strengthen its legal claims over areas that were part of the Philippines EEZ. The Philippines sued China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, alleging a violation of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and got a favourable verdict. China resolutely denounced the decision and ran a massive media campaign to delegitimise the verdict. There are striking parallels between Chinas aggression in the South China Sea and its actions along the Indo-China LAC. In both instances, it is evident that China views law as an instrument in the service of the State or, more precisely, the Chinese Communist Party. This is diametrically opposed to the rule of law theory in liberal democracies like India, where the function of law is to constrain State power. Constructing massive villages and now settling in people there under the LBL, is aimed at legitimising and institutionalising attempts at territorial revisionism along the Indo-China LAC. These Xiaokangs can also be used for military purposes. China is creating facts on the ground to cement its legal claims over these territories. India is responding to Chinas infrastructure built up along the LAC, inter alia, through the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) launched in 2023. The VVP aims to develop select villages adjoining the northern border in regions like Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh. While this is a welcome development aimed at bolstering border infrastructure along the LAC, more must be done to counter Chinese provocation effectively. India needs to understand that the Chinese game is not just infrastructure development along the LAC but an attempt to create facts on the ground as part of its lawfare strategy to permanently alter the border landscape to its advantage. Without this insight, Beijings aggression cannot be successfully countered. India must develop its own lawfare strategy using domestic and international legal instruments. This will require strengthening the Indian States legal capacity to employ law to serve the nations strategic objectives. Prabhash Ranjan teaches at the faculty of Legal Studies, South Asian University. The views expressed are personal Brajesh Mishra, principal secretary to Prime Minister (PM) Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and National Security Adviser, was not an excitable man. And he did not speak two words when one would do. But in 1999, when PM Vajpayee had recommended to President KR Narayanan the name of Fali S Nariman for being nominated under the Presidents discretion to the Rajya Sabha, the tough former diplomat rang me (I was then secretary to the President) with barely suppressed happiness to convey the glad tidings. I think the President will be pleased with the name, he said. Nariman is so fair-minded, so objective, and so very well-liked across the board. President Narayanan was indeed very happy with the name. Did PM Vajpayee think of the name himself? He might well have. Did Brajeshji suggest it? He might well have. Ataljis private secretary Shakti Sinha would know. Be that as it may, the choice was an inspired one. It must be said to the credit of the PM and his advisers, but most of all to the credit of Fali Narimans stature, no one thought the renowned jurist and quondam Additional Solicitor General of India would, as a member of Parliament (MP), be soft on the ruling establishment or somehow get co-opted by it. The thought simply did not occur to anyone. That is what is called independence. That is what is called autonomy. That is what is called izzat (dignity). And unlike many or even most nominated members, Nariman chose to not join any party a choice they have. Nominated MPs get very little speaking time. But some people impact their surroundings by their mere presence. Nariman did that in the Supreme Court and the Upper House of Indian Parliament. On January 27, 2000, President Narayanan, while addressing MPs on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Republic of India said: Today, when there is so much talk about revising the Constitution or even writing a new Constitution, we have to consider whether it is the Constitution that has failed us or whether we have failed the Constitution. From the galleries, I noticed Nariman erupt in delighted applause, thumping the desk in front of him, with the Central Hall resounding with approbation. And as I was on my way out, he came up to me and said: Brilliant, brilliant Our President is brilliant We have failed the Constitution, we have Nariman was aware of the National Democratic Alliance government wanting to have the Constitution reviewed, a step which, in fact, took place less than a month after President Narayanans address, on February 22, 2000 exactly 24 years ago today. The government set up a Constitution Review Commission to suggest possible amendments to the Constitution. President Narayanan had hinted at it in his speech when he said there is so much talk and Nariman by his celebration of the Presidents position had made his own position clear. He, as a sitting MP, was not included on the Commission which had a galactic composition, totally broad-based and fair-minded, headed by none other than former Chief Justice of India, MN Venkatachaliah. The Vajpayee governments preference was clear but its process was clean. Neither Narayanan nor Nariman could fault the composition. Grace came naturally in those times. Narimans being in Parliament was akin to a conscience-keeper being in the atrium of Indias legislative genius. He represented the Constitutions foundational objectives, its driving force which was about rights and duties woven into the resplendent shot-silk of democratic republicanism. He knew, better than anyone I can think of, the meaning of the Latinism audi alteram partem (hear the other side). There is everywhere the other side. In a country like India, so diverse, so variegated, there is another side to every other side as well, an inside in every inside. And so be as just as one can be, but you will still leave someone out of justice. Nariman knew this. He was fair, he was not flawless. Who is? But he was that which makes the flawed less flawed by being aware of human fallibility. Did he not go wrong by appearing for Union Carbide in the Bhopal gas tragedy case? He did. But he very honestly admitted that was a mistake. Was he prudent when he appeared for former chief minister J Jayalalithaa on October 17, 2014, in a conviction and obtained bail for her, which was earlier rejected? Not every lawyer seeks immaculacy in the client, only legal merit in the brief. The great Nani Palkhivala had appeared for Indira Gandhi even though, like Nariman, he had opposed the Emergency. In Narimans death, India lost its tallest spokesman for honesty in public intent and private conduct, probity in public service and private enterprise, and simple decency in public dealing and private equations. He was free of all sanctimony, all pomposity. Nariman was the closest approximation I have known to that elusive person Gods good man. Than His Holiness the Dalai Lama, there cannot be a more mind-rinsing sage. But even HH was on a plinth lower than his questioner when he answered somewhat ambiguously a question Nariman posed: You do not believe in God, Your Holiness, but you do pray. What in your view is the role of prayer? Narimans prayer was to what and to whom? Only his theologically trained son would know. But I would submit it was to human conscience, the seat of ethics. Nariman has gone to where his fond wife Bapsi has waited for him. I can hear her say to him: Fali, now please forget PILs and all that. Let us watch from here the earth so enfolded by ego, so corrupted by power. We are in a better place than where we were. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, a former administrator, and diplomat, is a student of modern Indian history. The views expressed are personal NASAs social media shares are always fascinating. Adding to that list is an image of nebula NGC 2346. The space agency posted this picture on Instagram that shows the last gasp of a dying binary star system. NASA posted this incredible image of nebula NGC 2346 on Instagram. (Instagram/@nasahubble) At the center of the nebula NGC 2346 is a pair of stars that are so close together that they orbit around each other every 16 days! This #HubbleClassic shows the last gasp of this binary star system as it dies. Located about 2,000 light-years away, NGC 2346 resides in the constellation Monoceros, NASA wrote. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. In the next few lines, they added a detailed description of the image. A two-lobed structure of gas expands out from a central pinkish region, almost resembling dark red and orange wings. The black background of space is dotted with some small stars, the space agency posted. Take a look at this incredible picture by NASA: The post was shared a day ago. Since then, it has collected close to XX likes and the numbers are only increasing. The share has further prompted people to post varied comments. How did Instagram users react to this post? This is so beautiful, wrote an Instagram user. Wow, added another. Many reacted to the post using heart emoticons. About Nebula NGC 2346: According to a blog by the European Space Agency (ESA), NGC 2346, a "so-called planetary nebula", is ejected from the Sun-like stars that are near the ends of their lives. Also Read: 5 stunning NASA Hubble Telescope images that will make your jaw drop It is believed that the binary star was originally more widely separated. However, when one component of the binary evolved, expanded in size, and became a red-giant star, it literally swallowed its companion star. The companion star then spiralled downwards inside the red giant, and in the process spewed out gas into a ring around the binary system, ESA added. Later on, when the hot core of the red giant was exposed, it developed a faster stellar wind, which emerged perpendicularly to the ring and inflated two huge "bubbles". This two-stage process is believed to have resulted in the butterfly-like shape of the nebula. NGC 2346 lies about 2,000 light-years away from us, and is about one-third of a light-year in size, the space agency further added. What are your thoughts on this post shared by NASA? Did the picture leave you stunned? Britain's King Charles on Wednesday said that he has been reduced to tears by the messages and cards of support he has received from people since his cancer diagnosis. The King was speaking to UK prime minister Rishi Sunak as he held their weekly audience for the first time since stepping away from public duties to focus on his treatment. King Charles III(AFP) Donning a navy blue suit and tie, Charles joked with Sunak before their formal meeting at the Buckingham Palace. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Wonderful to see you looking so well, Sunak said, in video released by the palace. To this, the King laughed and said, It's all done by mirrors. We're all behind youThe country is behind you, Sunak said. Charles responded: Ive had so many wonderful messages and cardsIts reduced me to tears most of time. Earlier this month, the Buckingham Palace released a statement informing of King Charles ill-health, saying that he has been diagnosed with cancer and added that the 75-year-old monarch would temporarily step back from public engagements to undergo treatment, with a hopeful return to full public duty as soon as possible. Charles assumed the throne on September 8, 2022, days after the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth. His official coronation took place on May 6, 2023. Buckingham Palace's statement on King Charles' health Releasing the statement, Buckingham Palace said, During The Kings recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer. His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual, it added. According to the Palace, the King was grateful for his medical team's quick intervention. The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible, the statement further read. (With inputs from agencies) Russia lacks sufficient domestic ammunition production to meet its needs in its war on Ukraine but President Vladimir Putin has not given up his hopes of subjugating the country, Western officials said on Wednesday. Ukrainian servicemen of the 65th Mechanised Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces are seen at a position near the front line village of Robotyne, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine(REUTERS) Russia's military industry is also struggling with the impact of sanctions, the officials said, adding that the country's inability to access Western components was undermining its ability to produce new systems and repair old ones. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Western officials' summary of the situation comes as the Ukraine war enters its third year, with Russia in the ascendancy after taking control of the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka and amid warnings that Ukraine is also running out of ammunition. "We do not believe Russia has a meaningful plan beyond continuing to fight in the expectation that Russian manpower and equipment numbers will eventually tell," an official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. ALSO READ| Ukraine seeks urgent talks with Poland, EU over border blockade by farmers Ukraine's shortages of supplies has come into focus with its reliance on Western support for money and equipment, especially with political wrangling in Washington holding up $61 billion in U.S. aid. Artillery shells are in short supply, with experts and soldiers on the frontline estimating that Russia's artillery was now firing at five times the rate of Ukraine's. However, the Western officials said Russia too was suffering problems as sanctions hit military production hard, causing delays and putting up costs, meaning it could not keep up with the war's demands. A consequence was Moscow was requisitioning military equipment which had been intended for foreign allies, they said. Last March, the Indian Air Force said Russia had failed to deliver vital supplies it had committed to the Indian military because of the Ukraine war. "Russia's domestic ammunition production capabilities are currently insufficient for meeting the needs of the Ukraine conflict," one official said. Despite the problems, Putin's aims remained unchanged, the officials cautioned, saying they did not believe Russia had given up on it goals of subjugating Ukraine. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Wednesday for emergency talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda, Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the European Union over a blockade of his country's border with Poland by Polish farmers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (AFP) Zelensky said he wanted such talks to take place on the Polish-Ukrainian border before Feb. 24 - the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine - and added that Kyiv was ready to find a pragmatic solution. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Polish farmers are angry over what they say are cheap Ukrainian food imports. US President Joe Biden has given a fresh opportunity to his critics to keep questioning his second bid for the White House, citing his old age and physical and mental fitness. A recent video that has gone viral on social media shows that Biden nearly trips as he ascends the stairs of his Air Force One aircraft at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Biden nearly trips as he ascends the stairs of his Air Force One aircraft at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland.(X@RNCResearch) The Commander-in-Chief was seen saluting US military members at the base of the stairway before beginning his ascent. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Even though he was taking short steps to avoid falling off the plane, the awful tragedy nevertheless happened. He, however, quickly gripped the railing and managed to step ahead. With many targeting Biden over his mental acuity and physical endurance, Tuesday's video did nothing to allay those worries. Also Read: Ex White House doctor on Joe Biden's bad health: 'This man can't do the job' Social media questions Biden's stamina and fitness Following his near-tumble, social media erupted quickly, with many conservatives raising concerns about the US President's health. Biden almost trips (twice) as he boards Air Force One despite using the short stairs to avoid tripping, RNC Research wrote on X. A Secret Service agent is placed at the bottom of the stairs whenever Biden boards or disembarks to prevent this very scenario from happening. Biden is not well! Jake Schneider, an RNC employee, inquired, What comes after the short stairs? Strapping Biden onto a stretcher and carrying it? "Well, it did look a little windy," said Contributing editor for The Spectator Stephen Miller. There was also a snarky comment made by conservative digital strategist Alec Sears, who said, "Lots of vigor on display here." Sharing Biden's clip, Account Citizen Free Press wrote, Joe Biden almost trips twice on the short steps. The man is falling apart in real time. Also Read: Trump trolls Biden with White House senior living ad, sparking hysterical reactions online Biden has a Secret Service agent to guard stairs Over the years, Biden has almost fallen down those stairs several times. As a result, his crew decided to use shorter stairs last year so that he could enter the plane more easily. The New York Times report stated earlier this month that "Now, there is a Secret Service agent positioned at the bottom of the stairs when he disembarks." According to campaign insiders, the Biden 2024 campaign initiated operation "Bubble Wrap" in November and has devised strategies to prevent the president from slipping, the reported added. The White House has been defending Biden's age since special counsel Robert Hur report described him as an elderly man with hazy memory at times. Kyle Rittenhouse, who was acquitted at his trial in the deadly Kenosha shooting, recently questioned the US government why the public still does not know the identities of the gunmen who killed people at the Super Bowl victory parade in Kansas City, Missouri. Kyle Rittenhouse (AP) Hitting out at the US administration, Rittenhouse stated that the government was quick to reveal my name after the Kenosha shooting, triggering race debate on social media with many discussing privileges given to Black people. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Comparing the Kansas City shooting to his own experience, he took to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday and wrote: I am trying to comprehend why the government was quick to reveal my name after I defended myself, but they still havent released the names of the Kansas City shooters. Also Read: Super Bowl 2024: Joe Biden's epic reaction to Taylor Swift conspiracy theory, Just like we drew it up The post, which has gained over 9 million views, has garnered a flood of responses with one X user saying that Rittenhouse was "white defending yourself against threats in your city. You're a white conservative male who used his 2nd amendment right. Conservatives are targeted and persecuted. That's why." You are White, they are not, another user added, bring race as the main factor. "Must be the colour of your skin! As it fitted their narrative. Kansas City shooting doesnt fit their narrative, third user reacted. Black privilege is being able to commit heinous acts of violence but somehow still be the victim, one more chimed in. Also Read: Omaha man describes moment he tackled Super Bowl parade shooter: You dont think about it, its just a reaction Two adults charged with murder in deadly shooting at Kansas City Police have charged two teenagers in connection with the Kansas shooting that killed one and injured several others. While police have verified that the victim was Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a local DJ and mother of two, the identities and the age of arrested suspects were initially not made public. At a press conference which took place after the Rittenhouse's comment on the shooting, police identified the Kansas shooting suspects as Dominic Miller and Lyndell Mays. At a news conference, Jackson County prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced that Miller and Mays have been charged with second-degree murder, two charges of armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon, as reported by the BBC. Miller is believed to be the one who fatally shot 43-year-old Lisa Lopez Galvan. Why was Kyle Rittenhouse acquitted? In August 2020, at the age of 17, Rittenhouse shot and murdered two men at a protest in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The deceased were identified as Joseph Rosenbaum, 36, and Anthony Huber, 26. He also injured 26-year-old Gaige Grosskreutz using a semi-automatic AR-15-style assault rifle. All three gunshots, he claimed, were acts of self-defense. The Black Lives Matter (BLM) demonstration that took place around the time of the shootings was in response to the shooting incident which left Jacob Blake, a Black man, paralysed from the waist down. He was shot by a White police officer. Following his trial in November 2021, Rittenhouse was found not guilty of first-degree intentional homicide, first-degree reckless homicide, attempted first-degree intentional homicide, and two counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety. Later on, Rittenhouse declared his support for the BLM movement and said that the purpose of his attendance at the protest was to "protect businesses and provide medical assistance." While ex-US President Donald Trump continues to brag about a truckers New York City boycott in protest of his $355 million fraud trial judgment, several drivers seem to have taken a U-turn with many claiming that the strike is not happening. Ex-US President Donald Trump(REUTERS) Following the ruling in Trump's civil fraud case, several pro-Trump social media users started appealing to truck drivers to refuse shipment to New York City in order to possibly disrupt its economy. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Truckers have now started reacting as demands for the boycott gained traction on social media. Even Wisconsin trucker Chicago Ray, who launched the calls for boycott, backed off the action on Monday. Just to be clear. I'm no figurehead of any movement. I'm not leading, nor have I encouraged, or am I encouraging anyone to do anything other than what they were doing prior to the ruling Friday in New York City, he wrote on X. I'm just a trucker who heard chatter and posted it on Twitter, nothing more than that, he added in a now deleted post. Also Read: NYC faces complete shutdown as truckers threaten to paralyse state, New Yorkers must stock up Truckers says people refusing to enter NYC due to other issues Another trucker with TikTok handle bluecollar_trucker suggested that there might be further problems with parking, crime, and traffic that contribute to the growing trend of truckers choosing not to visit New York City. "This trucker strike, nobody's talked to me about it and I know a lot of other guys on other platforms like, 'Yeah, no, we've never talked about it either.' So one it's not happening, there's no strike against New York City not over the Trump case, but more and more people are refusing to go because of other issues," the trucker said in a video. Samuraiblaq2.0, another TikTokuser and trucker, reaffirmed that the boycott is not happening, adding that truckers are not going to NYC because they have been facing several legal issues. "The main reason why most truckers are not going to New York City is because of the f****** laws that are put in place, especially now the fact that we got to pay tolls within the city." Also Read: #TruckersForTrump trend gets bigger, will protesters make boycott national and go beyond NYC? How the boycott story kicked off? It was Chicago Ray who started the boycott story by sharing a video on Friday. where he stated, [Truckers] gonna start refusing loads in New York City starting on Monday... We're tired of you f**king with Trump, OK? Our bosses ain't going to care if we deny the loads. We'll just go somewhere else, all right? You know how f**king hard it is to get into New York City," he continued. Trump himself shared the video of popular trucking personality on his social media platform, Truth Social. Ray, however, deleted the same video on Tuesday, but stated he continues to refuse shipments to NYC. "Drivers can make their own decisions based on their families and their careers," he wrote in a another statement. I worked for a place for 18 years and I quit them in one day and had this job b4 I got to my car.... i ain't the leader of any movement... I'm my own man period. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should face espionage charges in the United States because he put innocent lives at risk and went beyond journalism in his bid to solicit, steal and indiscriminately publish classified US government documents, lawyers for the American government argued Wednesday. Supporters of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange protest outside the high court, on the day Assange appeals against his extradition to the United States, in London, Britain, February 21, 2024. (REUTERS) The lawyers spoke before Britain's High Court in response to a last-ditch bid by Assange's defense to stop his extradition from the United Kingdom to the U.S. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Assanges lawyers are asking the High Court to grant him a new appeal his last roll of the legal dice in the saga that has kept him in a British high-security prison for the past five years. The judges overseeing the case reserved their decision at the end of the two-day hearing, and a ruling on Assange's future is not expected until March at the earliest. Julian Assange indicted on 15 charges of espionage The 52-year-old Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his websites publication of a trove of classified U.S. documents almost 15 years ago. American prosecutors allege Assange encouraged and helped U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks published, putting lives at risk. Lawyer Clair Dobbin told the High Court that Assange damaged U.S. security and intelligence services and created a grave and imminent risk by releasing the hundreds of thousands of documents risks that could harm and lead to the arbitrary detention of innocent people, many of whom lived in war zones or under repressive regimes. Dobbin added that in encouraging Manning and others to hack into government computers and steal from them, Assange was going a very considerable way beyond a journalist gathering information. Assange was not someone who has just set up an online box to which people can provide classified information, she said. The allegations are that he sought to encourage theft and hacking that would benefit WikiLeaks. Here's what Assange's supporters and lawyers say Assange's supporters maintain he is a secrecy-busting journalist who exposed U.S. military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have long argued that the prosecution is politically motivated and he wont get a fair trial in the U.S. Assanges lawyers argued on the first day of the hearing on Tuesday that American authorities are seeking to punish him for WikiLeaks exposure of criminality on the part of the U.S. government on an unprecedented scale, including torture and killings. Lawyer Edward Fitzgerald said Assange may suffer a flagrant denial of justice if he is sent to the U.S. Dobbin rejected claims that the charges are a tool of oppression to punish Assange for his political opinions. She said the prosecution is based on law and evidence, and has remained consistent despite the changes of government in the U.S. during the legal battle. She added that the First Amendment does not confer immunity on journalists who break the law. Media outlets that went through the process of redacting the documents before publishing them are not being prosecuted, she said. Assanges lawyers say he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence is likely to be much shorter. Assange was absent from court on Wednesday and Tuesday because he is unwell, WikiLeaks said. Stella Assange, his wife, said he had wanted to attend, but was not in good condition. Assanges family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022, said last week that his health has deteriorated during years of confinement and if hes extradited, he will die. Julian is a political prisoner and he has to be released, she told reporters. Theyre putting Julian into the hands of the country and of the people who plotted his assassination," she added, referring to claims by Assange's lawyers that he was a target of a CIA plot to kidnap or kill him while he was in the Ecuadorian Embassy. A judge previously dismissed the claims. Supporters holding Free Julian Assange signs and chanting there is only one decision no extradition protested outside the High Court building for a second day. Assanges legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A U.K. district court judge rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the U.S. about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. Andrew Wilkie, an Australian lawmaker who attended the hearing, said he hoped that sent a strong message to the U.K. and U.S. governments to end the legal fight. This has gone on long enough, he said. If judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition though supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the U.S. before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. The U.S. State Department on Wednesday condemned internet shutdowns in Pakistan, including restrictions on social media platforms, and urged the Pakistani government to lift such restrictions. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller Internet monitoring advocates have pointed out internet outages and restrictions after protests following claims of election irregularities in Pakistan. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "We are concerned by any reports of restrictions on the exercise of the freedom of expression and association in Pakistan, including the partial or complete government-imposed internet shutdowns, which includes, of course, on social media platforms," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Wednesday. Miller said that Washington called on Pakistan to respect freedom of expression and "restore access to any social media that has been restricted, including Twitter." He said the U.S. concerns had been communicated to Pakistan through official channels. The Netblocks global internet monitor on Wednesday cited instances of restrictions. "Metrics show that X/Twitter remains largely restricted in Pakistan past the four-day mark; imposed on Saturday as disclosures relating to election fraud circulated on the platform," Netblocks said. Voters in Pakistan went to the polls earlier this month, in a vote marred by a mobile internet shutdown on election day and unusually delayed results, leading to accusations that the vote was rigged. United States, Britain and the European Union have separately expressed concerns about Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of the elections. According to The Guardian, Tass, the state-run news agency in Russia, first reported the update to Russia's list of "terrorists and extremists." Rosfinmonitoring, which allows authorities to freeze Russian bank accounts, added Republican senator Lindsey Graham, likely as a symbolic show. The agency's list includes more than 12,000 individuals and more than 400 companies, from domestic and foreign terrorist entities to Russian political opposition groups. Meta was added to the list in October 2022 for allegedly tolerating "Russophobia." Chief executive Mark Zuckerberg and several Meta employees have been banned from Russia or added to "wanted" lists. Graham, a South Carolina senator and foreign-policy warmonger, has long supported arming Ukraine against Russian forces and has also been subject to a Russian arrest warrant for making "Russophobic statements" during a visit to Kyiv. "It's difficult to imagine a greater shame for a country than having such senators," said Dmitry Peskov, the Russian government spokesperson at the time. Graham responded to the warrant by telling Reuters, "As usual the Russia propaganda machine is hard at work. It has been a good investment by the United States to help liberate Ukraine from Russian war criminals." He said he would "wear the arrest warrant issued by Putin's corrupt and immoral government as a badge of honor." Where does the South Carolina lawmaker stand? Graham is a notable ally of former president and prospective Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, who generally favors Russia and Putin. This month, Graham voted against a $95bn defense and foreign aid package that would significantly boost Kyiv. Graham has backed a $66bn counter-proposal from House lawmakers of both parties, stating, "I want to turn the aid package into a loan, that makes perfect sense to me." This move echoes that of Trump, who has demanded aid to Kyiv converted into loans. "I think that's a winning combination," Graham said. "Let's make it a loan. I think that gets you, President Trump, on the aid part." Emphasizing the killing of Alexei Navalny, a prominent leader of opposition to Putin, Graham proposed Russia be designated a state sponsor of terrorism. The Guardian quoted Graham's Tuesday post on X, "I understand what happens if Putin wins in Ukraine. However, many members of Congress do not seem to understand what is happening to America every single day at our southern border. Count me in for helping Ukraine. But, we must help ourselves first. It's time to get our broken border under control." Organized by the Observer Research Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs of the Government of India, the Raisina Dialogue is scheduled for February 21-23. This is India's 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, an intersection of minds and strategies under the intriguing banner of 'Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create.' What the Raisina Dialogue Is All About It continues to bring a blend of leaders from across the globe who will mold future geopolitical and geoeconomic strategies. Notable figures in attendance include Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom, Latvia's Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins, and India's Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan. The Raisina Dialogue acknowledged as India's premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, is ready to reveal its program, which is structured around six thematic pillars. According to BNN Breaking, the conference anticipates participation from over 100 nations, with over 2500 delegates gathering in person and millions more engaging through digital platforms, transcending borders and mediums. This year's theme, 'Chaturanga,' appropriately mirrors the ancient Indian game of strategy that has evolved into modern chess, symbolizing the diverse dynamics of global conflict, competition, collaboration, and innovation. The Raisina Dialogue 2024 represents a crucial space where military prowess meets diplomatic expertise. Gen Anil Chauhan's meetings with military leaders from strategic partner nations, including the US, France, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, highlight the dialogue's importance in influencing defense strategies and shaping military collaborations, further stated. Crafting the Future Together The dialogue is committed to exploring avenues for resolving conflicts, devising competitive strategies, and developing innovative approaches to tackle global challenges. The conference includes diverse participants, such as military commanders, ministers, national security advisors, and representatives from various sectors. Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of the current global landscape. A Houthi surface-to-air missile shot down the US MQ-9 Reaper drone that went down early on Monday morning in Yemen close to Hodeidah, a US official said on Tuesday. Authorities previously stated that it was unclear if the drone was shot down or had simply crashed. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen stated on Monday that the MQ-9 was shot down with a suitable missile, as per CNN. Houthi Drone Attacks Raise Global Concerns North Korea has demonstrated a rapid capability to manufacture and deploy missiles using components produced between 2021 and 2023. The missile in question, utilized by Russia in Ukraine by January, highlights the challenge of managing the flow of commercial electronics, especially semiconductor components, across the intricate global supply chain. A US MQ-9 drone was either downed or crashed off the coast of Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, as confirmed by Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh. Initial assessments point to a Houthi surface-to-air missile as the likely cause. This event occurred on the same day the rebels targeted two US-owned merchant vessels, continuing their sustained attacks on shipping in the region. The Houthi rebels, opposing government forces in Yemen and aligning themselves with the "axis of resistance" against Israel, claimed responsibility for shooting down an MQ-9 in November 2023. The United States previously acknowledged another MQ-9 downed by the rebels in 2019. Following a string of previous skirmishes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, US and coalition troops shot down 10 one-way attack drones. The French navy also confirmed the destruction of two drones over the Red Sea. Furthermore, an American destroyer intercepted an anti-ship cruise missile, and US forces targeted a drone and missile launcher in Yemen, according to NDTV. Read Also: Biden Pushes for UN Security Council Action, Urges Temporary Ceasefire in Israel-Gaza Conflict Houthi Attacks Target US-Owned Ships Earlier this week, two anti-ship ballistic missiles caused minor damage to the US-owned grain ship M/V Sea Champion, while a drone hit the M/V Navis Fortuna, a US-owned bulk carrier. The Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting "two American ships in the Gulf of Aden." Their attacks on Red Sea shipping since November have purportedly aimed at vessels linked to Israel in support of Palestinians in Gaza. This incident occurs within three months of the Houthis downing an American Reaper drone off Yemen's coast, operating in international airspace. The MQ-9, like the Reaper, is a well-armed drone capable of carrying Hellfire missiles and precision bombs, providing valuable intelligence and executing high-level strikes. The Houthi actions in the past two days also involved firing anti-ship ballistic missiles at commercial vessels, causing damage. A distress call from one affected crew prompted assistance from another commercial vessel. This recent development presents additional obstacles for the Biden administration as they work to address the Houthi threat and navigate the complexities of the region. The incidents represent the ongoing dangers linked to drone usage, as well as the escalating tensions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, Business Insider reported. Related Article: Retailers Push for Immediate EU Action to Address Red Sea Crisis Adam Montgomery expressed frustration with the authorities during his New Hampshire trial, stating that they were "wasting their time" during the multi-state search for his daughter's remains in late 2022, as heard in a call recording. In Montgomery's continuing trial in Manchester, the prosecution rested its case on Tuesday. Harmony Montgomery, age five, was killed, and Mongomery, who earlier this month pled guilty to two lesser counts of mistreatment of a body and fabricating details, is now charged with one count of second-degree murder, as per The Independent. Testimony Unveils Adam Montgomery's Rebecca Maines, in prison for a parole violation, testified that Adam Montgomery had been trying to see his daughter, Harmony Montgomery, since 2019, when he dropped her off to be with her mother. Despite being granted legal custody, Harmony's mother wouldn't allow him to visit her. Authorities believe Montgomery killed her on December 7, 2019, but she was reported missing nearly two years later. Adam Montgomery pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder in 2022 and proclaimed in court last year that he did not kill his daughter and loved her unconditionally. Defense attorneys acknowledged he is guilty of two lesser charges: falsifying evidence and abusing a corpse. However, they suggested Harmony died on December 6 alone with her stepmother, Kayla Montgomery. Adam Montgomery, serving a 30-year prison sentence for an unrelated gun conviction, hasn't been attending his trial. Prosecutors rested Tuesday, and the defense is scheduled to present its case on Wednesday. Maines, who described Montgomery as her best friend, testified about an incident where she "backhanded" her daughter after she put her hand over her younger brother's lips and nose. Her uncle, Adam Montgomery's uncle, also testified that he "bashed" Harmony around the house after seeing her put her hands on her brother, according to AP News. Read Also: PlayStation 5 'Pro' Version Could Come Later This Year at Much Cheaper Prices Rebecca Maines Under Cross-Examination Maines has a criminal record from 2014 to 2019, including theft and fraud convictions. She is scheduled for a parole hearing in April and faces several pending charges. During cross-examination, she admitted to being a criminal and was in treatment for substance abuse. Defense attorneys suggested that Maines was trying to improve her legal situation by testifying, but she denied making or asking for promises about her pending charges in exchange for her testimony. Adam Montgomery and Kayla Montgomery were not in a relationship when Harmony was born in 2014. The child lived with foster families and her mother, Crystal Sorey, who lost custody in 2018. Kayla Montgomery, Harmony's mother, has been the star witness against her estranged husband, serving an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to perjury for lying during grand jury testimony. According to her testimony, Harmony's family, which included their two young kids, had been evicted and were living in a car at the time. She added that her husband had hit Harmony in her head many times because she had wet herself. She provided details about giving food to the children without confirming Harmony's well-being, finding Harmony gone and hiding the body in different locations such as a ceiling escape at a homeless shelter and a walk-in freezer at her husband's workplace. Kayla Montgomery said she stopped from speaking out about Harmony's death due to fear of her husband, Mass Live reported. Related Article: Org Uses AI-Generated Voices of Dead Victms of Mass Shootings to Spur Congress to Act California is facing a worsening budget crisis, with projections now indicating a possible record deficit of $73 billion, as outlined in a latest report from the state's nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO). The forecast presented by the LAO in a report on Tuesday warns of a $24 billion decline in revenues, leading to a $15 billion rise in the state's budget issue. As a result, the budget deficit, previously projected to reach $58 billion last month, may now increase to $73 billion, as per Fox News. California Faces Budget Crisis The financial outlook for California is experiencing increased vulnerability, as revenue collection data suggests that revenues are declining, according to the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO). The LAO identified that the upcoming updated projection of the state's finances in May may show a larger budget issue. The actual budget shortfall, according to the LAO, hinges on various factors, including mandatory Proposition 98 spending on schools and community colleges. The report outlined a worrisome scenario, indicating that a $24 billion erosion in revenues could elevate the estimated deficit from $58 billion to a staggering $73 billion. Lawmakers are now compelled to seek new budget solutions to ensure a balanced budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The LAO proposed potential measures, such as increasing revenue, reducing both one-time and ongoing spending, and exploring options like cost shifts or utilizing reserves. Identifying areas for cuts, the LAO listed nearly $16 billion in one-time and temporary spending across categories like business and labor, criminal justice, education, health and human services, housing and homelessness, resources and environment, and transportation, according to The Sacramento Bee. Read Also: Biden Pushes for UN Security Council Action, Urges Temporary Ceasefire in Israel-Gaza Conflict Budget Deficit Increase in California H.D. Palmer, spokesperson for Newsom's Department of Finance, acknowledged that the state is still expecting over $51 billion in income and corporate tax receipts. However, he stressed the uncertainty surrounding the budget estimate and urged the Legislature to act promptly on early action budget measures to address an $8 billion portion of the projected shortfall. Governor Gavin Newsom, in his January budget presentation, hinted at revisiting last year's budget to implement changes and tackle the growing deficit. The new projection for fiscal 2024-25 anticipates a $15 billion increase in the deficit, primarily attributed to a significant decline in traditional corporate tax collections and weak income tax withholding and estimated payments. The LAO's report emphasized that if the budget problem escalates by $15 billion, the Legislature must find equivalent new budget solutions to maintain balance. This forecast raises concerns that Governor Newsom may propose additional spending reductions in his May budget revision, adding to the already planned $8.5 billion in cuts. Newsom and the LAO have been in disagreement over the size of the deficit, with the governor initially estimating it at $37.9 billion. The state's fiscal outlook is further complicated by a seven-month extension to the income-tax filing deadline, impacting revenue forecasts and leading to over-allocations, especially in education, based on mandatory budget formulas, Bloomberg reported. Related Article: American Man Admits to Murder, Rape of Fellow US Tourists Near German Castle Republican lawmaker Eric Hovde made his Wisconsin Senate bid official on Tuesday, giving the GOP a boost to its efforts in a key battleground state, to face off against Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin. Hovde, who is a Madison-area businessman, gives the Republican Party a potentially formidable candidate in what is considered a tricky state that has valued incumbency in the last few years. Eric Hovde Launches Wisconsin Senate Bid In his launch video, Hovde said that it felt as though the United States was "slipping away" before he checked off a laundry list of issues, which include the economy and the border. He added that everything was going in the wrong direction, claiming that all Washington does is divide the people and exchange blame. Hovde's Senate bid announcement is being greeted as welcome news in national GOP circles as Sen. Steve Daines has, for months, been hailing the businessman as the top choice of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, as per The Hill. The state of Wisconsin was the last remaining contest without a standout Senate GOP candidate and Republican lawmakers have been looking for someone to take on Baldwin. The latter has proven it to be difficult to beat in both of her previous two Senate races. With Hovde stepping up to the plate, Republicans get a battle-tested candidate who is prepared to spend big on the senatorial race. He narrowly lost to former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson, a Republican, during the 2012 GOP Senate primary. Baldwin then went on to defeat Thompson in the general election. Furthermore, Hovde is expected to spend roughly $20 million of his own money on the Senate contest. Daines said that his colleague's experience as a job creator rather than a career politician makes him a strong candidate to slip Wisconsin's Senate this year. Read Also: Nikki Haley Remains Unbowed, Vows to Remain in Race up to Super Tuesday Challenging Tammy Baldwin Hovde is the CEO of several companies, including Hovde Properties, a family-founded real estate development company. He also leads H Bancorp, which is a multi-bank holding company as well as Sunwest Bank, which is a subsidiary of H Bancorp, according to CBS News. During an interview, Daines praised Hovde, saying that the latter has been focused on his private-sector career and building jobs and building businesses. The situation comes as Baldwin is seeking her third term in Wisconsin and her seat is a target for the GOP who wish to take control of the Senate in November. During the last two presidential elections, the winner of the battleground state has been determined by less than a single percentage point. In 2016, former United States President Donald Trump beat Hillary Clinton by a 0.8% margin, and in 2020, Joe Biden beat his predecessor by a mere 0.6%. Baldwin used the news of Hovde's Senate bid to ask for campaign donations, posting on social media that this year's race will be her "most competitive and expensive" so far. In a statement, a spokesman for the Wisconsin Democratic Party said that Hovde would put "ultrarich people like himself ahead of middle-class Wisconsinites," said the New York Times. Related Article: Donald Trump Challenges Joe Biden To 'As Many' Debates as Necessary for 2024 Campaign Beulah Public School senior Daviney McKay was born with cystic fibrosis. When she was in the fifth grade, she had to be hospitalized for a long time and was chosen for Make-A-Wish. Her wish was to go to Scotland with her family to see the old castles. Years after getting her wish granted, McKay became a Make-A-Wish ambassador so that she could share her story and help advocate so that more kids could get their wishes granted. Living with cystic fibrosis hasn't been as bad as some people have, which I'm fortunate about, she said. I've only been hospitalized roughly two times for a long time. During my sophomore year of high school, I got super sick because they found an infection that's caused by the dirt in the ground and from black mold in my lungs. That was probably the hardest one: I lost like 65 pounds and had to regain all my strength back. But now it's gone and I'm fully back to my normal function, which is good. The daughter of Shannon and Chantel McKay, of Golden Valley, is one of the Tribune's 2023-24 Teen of the Weeks, sponsored by MDU Resources Group, which includes MDU Construction Services Group Inc., Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. and WBI Energy Inc., along with Cascade Natural Gas Corp., Intermountain Gas Co. and Great Plains Natural Gas Co. A Teen of the Year will be selected from the weekly winners in the spring and will receive a $5,000 scholarship. McKay was also an ambassador for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of North Dakota, where she gave interviews and advocated for Giving Hearts Day. McKay plays on the varsity softball and volleyball teams. The softball right fielder has gone to three state tournaments, and fondly remembers getting one of the last catches to win the state title last year. The volleyball team captain has made the All-Region Academic Team every year and tied the school record for aces in a game -- 12 against Heart River last year. McKay serves as the National Honor Society president, her FFA chapters secretary, a FCA leader and is a student ambassador for her school, welcoming new students and making them feel comfortable. She also is involved in Leos Club and joined the journalism class this year, helping her adviser as an editor. By motivating myself to be in leadership positions, I can motivate other people to come out of their shells and do something that they may have thought about doing but haven't felt comfortable doing, McKay said. So I just try to show my leadership and hope to encourage other people to step out of their box as well. Superintendent Travis Jordan said McKays personality has been influential in the school. He credited much of Beulahs culture of kindness and acceptance to McKay. In my 20 years in education, I would be hard-pressed to find a student that has been more actively involved in leadership and volunteering roles, Jordan wrote in a letter of recommendation. She truly has a heart for making the world a better place through advocacy, connection and collaboration. Daviney has been an instrumental role model for students across our entire district. The straight A student has taken three dual-credit classes and scored a 28 out of a possible 36 on her college entrance exam. In a tragic incident last week, a Pennsylvania man allegedly stabbed his former girlfriend to death in front of a police officer before attempting self-harm, authorities reported Monday. Trevor Weigel, 23, stands accused of fatally stabbing Jaden Battista, 19, during a violent encounter on Friday outside a residence on Waterford Road in Lower Makefield Township. Authorities indicate that Battista sustained more than a dozen stab wounds, with estimates suggesting she was attacked at least 15 times. Detailed Account of the Waterford Road Incident According to official statements released by the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, the events transpired shortly after 2:20 p.m. when law enforcement received a report of a burglary in progress at a residence on Waterford Road. What initially seemed like a routine call quickly escalated into a harrowing scene of violence and tragedy. District Attorney Jennifer Schorn disclosed that the initial call, ostensibly about a burglary, was later revealed to be a domestic-related issue. As per police reports, Battista was in communication with a friend via FaceTime when she noticed Weigel outside her home, attempting to gain entry forcibly. The friend, who stayed connected during the call, recalled hearing alarming sounds before Battista's voice suddenly went silent, sounding muffled as though someone were covering her mouth to silence her. Concerned for her friend's safety, the individual promptly dialed emergency services, prompting law enforcement to respond swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, an officer witnessed the unthinkable: Weigel, standing beside a vehicle with the door ajar, chasing down Battista and subsequently launching a vicious assault against the victim using a knife. The officer intervened to halt the attack, but not before Battista sustained fatal injuries from the stabs. Weigel, in a desperate bid to evade capture, fled on foot, inflicting self-harm in the process by stabbing himself in the neck multiple times in front of the police. A frantic pursuit ensued, culminating in Weigel's eventual apprehension by law enforcement, who deployed a Taser to subdue him. "He pulls up on the scene, he sees a male brutally and violently stabbing a young 19-year-old female," Lower Makefield Township Police Chief Kenneth D. Coluzzi said. "He tries to take every measure he can to save her life while other police officers give chase to this coward who was running from the scene. Amazing police work." Meanwhile, efforts to save Battista's life were made in vain as she succumbed to her injuries upon arrival at the hospital. An autopsy later confirmed that Battista had suffered multiple stab wounds to her neck and chest, sealing her tragic fate. Read Also: Suspended Pennsylvania Magistrate Judge Charged After Shooting Ex-Boyfriend in Head Authorities Uncover Tragic Story of Domestic Violence Weigel and Battista were in a relationship for two months before separating two months ago. According to information from an affidavit of probable cause obtained by People Magazine, footage from police body cameras recorded during Weigel's arrest suggests that he accused Battista of being unfaithful and admitted to losing control. Following his apprehension, Weigel was taken to the hospital for surgery to treat his injuries. In a poignant reflection on the severity of domestic violence, District Attorney Schorn underscored the profound loss endured by Battista's loved ones, urging vigilance and awareness in combating such tragedies. "This case serves as a reminder that one can never fully appreciate the lethality of a situation when enduring domestic violence," Schorn said. Weigel is now facing a litany of charges including criminal homicide, burglary, and possession of an instrument of crime. According to the Bucks County District Attorney's Office, Weigel is presently detained without bail. It is unknown whether he has submitted a plea or engaged legal counsel to represent him. Related Article: Alaska Woman Sentenced to 99 Years for Murder-for-Hire Scheme Targeting 'Best Friend' Polish farmers used their tractors to block off much of the Ukraine border amid a grain row that is the result of cheap products flooding the market as well as EU regulations regarding pesticides and fertilizer usage. The tractors were seen flying Polish flags as they blocked motorways and major junctions in nearly 200 different locations. The blockades are also taking place at several border crossings with Ukraine. Polish Farmers Blockade Ukraine Border In a statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the protests conducted by the Polish farmers demonstrated the "daily erosion of solidarity" with his nation. He added that the movement was more about politics and not grain. This is because only 5% of their agricultural exports pass through the Polish border. Video footage that was shared on social media seemed to show grain that the farmers were spilling onto a train track that they took from a goods wagon at the Medyka crossing. Vasyl Zvarych, Ukraine's ambassador to Poland, said that the spilled grain was Ukrainian and then condemned the protesters' actions, as per BBC. In his post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Zvarych said that law enforcement authorities should react decisively and punish the people who break the law. He noted that showed a lack of respect for the work that Ukrainian farmers had put in conditions of Russian aggression towards themselves as well as others. Oleksandr Kubrakov, a Ukrainian deputy prime minister, called the act a "political provocation aimed at dividing our nations." Lorry drivers from Ukraine said that they would retaliate and blockade Polish drivers at three crossings on their side of the border. There are now long queues of lorries that can be seen at several border crossings following protests held in the last few months. Officials' efforts to clear customs at one crossing are now taking more than two weeks. On Tuesday, protesters obstructed checkpoints for commercial transportation, stopping the passage of roughly 3,000 Ukrainian trucks and opening some train cars that contained Ukrainian grain to spill them on the tracks, according to the New York Times. Read Also: New Zealand Green Party MP Efeso Collins Dies After Collapsing at Auckland Charity Event Protesting Over Cheap Grain A spokesman for the Ukrainian foreign ministry, Oleh Nikolenko, said that the protests in Poland "undermine Ukraine's economy and its resilience to repel Russian aggression." The Tuesday demonstrations echoed those held by other farmers across Europe in the past few months. The protests lamented European Union environmental regulations and imports that the farmers said were making it difficult for them to earn a living. The issue that Polish farmers are expressing their anger with originated from Russia's restriction of Ukraine's sea shipments. To ease price hikes and grain shortages in several parts of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, the EU suspended tariffs and quotas on Ukrainian food products. This was to carry as much food as possible by rail and truck through neighboring nations such as Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. Polish farmers drove their tractors through Gdansk, Krakow, and several other cities across the region as they honked their horns. They said that they would make their actions even more dramatic until their demands were met. The protesters want Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government to withdraw Poland from the Green Deal. They are also demanding him to stop the import of agricultural products from Ukraine, said Aljazeera. Related Article: Russia Says It Shipped 200K Tons of Free Grain To 6 African Countries as Part of Commitment OnePlus enters the smartwatch scene with its newly unveiled Watch 2, which the company claims will have a 100-hour battery life. The reveal comes after several months of rumor, and the formal debut of the company's latest product will be at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona later this month. OnePlus is notorious for drip-feeding details regarding its products. OnePlus Unveils New Watch 2 While the company has not yet revealed some essential information about its newest wearable, it has offered a few juicy details. The first is that it has made the lofty claim that the OnePlus Watch 2 will have a 100-hour battery life on a single charge. OnePlus said that that feature is with the product's "full Smart Mode" being turned on rather than a battery saver mode. The purported battery life of the Watch 2 far exceeds that of most mainstream smartwatches currently available on the market, including the Apple Watch Series 9 with 18 hours and Pixel Watch 2 with 24 hours, as per Engadget. The president of OnePlus, Kinder Liu, said the company's goal with the new device is to "win the title of the Best Flagship Smartwatch of the year with its market-beating battery life." The firm also said that the new wearable apes the design language of the OnePlus 12 series. Read Also: Nintendo Stock Takes Hit as Switch Successor Release Reportedly Pushed to 2025 The Watch 2 will have a stainless steel chassis and a sapphire crystal watch face and will be available in two colorways: Black Steel and Radiant Steel. The company promises "unparalleled reliability for everyday use and meticulous health monitoring" as well. However, the company is keeping other key details of the new wearable, including pricing and the release date, under wraps for now. Another factor that OnePlus has not yet confirmed is the Watch 2's operating system. Updated Design and Performance The Watch 2's purported 100-hour battery life is actually less than the first OnePlus smartwatch, which lasted roughly 19 days during a review in 2021. However, that was partly due to that product not doing much in the first place. According to The Verge, it did not have any third-party app support or voice assistant, and it had terrible fitness tracking. Other rumors of the new product's specifications include a 1.43" AMOLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset, and the possibility of coming with WearOS 4. This is the perfect time for OnePlus to take advantage of Google's expansive OS with its resurgence as a platform. In a statement, Liu said that after a three-year hiatus and a reflective pause following the OnePlus Watch 1, they are more confident than ever with the new Watch 2. He added that this confidence is not unfounded as it is built on substantial advancements in the company's technological ecosystem and capabilities. The president added that OnePlus' new wearable will provide consumers with an experience that is improved and transformed. The public will soon be able to find out if there is any truth behind Liu's words on Monday, said Yahoo Life. Related Article: PlayStation 5 'Pro' Version Could Come Later This Year at Much Cheaper Prices Prince William, Prince of Wales and first-in-line to the British throne has called for an "end to the fighting as soon as possible" but did not explicitly mention the word "ceasefire" in his statement. The BBC reported that the future king made the statement as he visited a British Red Cross office in London on Tuesday (Feb. 20). In a conversation with Red Cross and Red Crescent staff in Gaza, William spoke of the "terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack." The prince added that there was a "desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza" and for the hostages to be released. "Too many have been killed," he said in response to Red Cross workers about the humanitarian efforts to support people caught up in the conflict in the Middle East. William was also told that the Red Cross was ready to help with the release of hostages still under Hamas captivity. The prince was said to have felt strongly about what was happening in the Middle East and was "deeply moved as a father." "Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home," he added. Read Also: Prince William Graces BAFTAs Red Carpet Solo Amid Kate Middleton's Recovery Responses to William's Words It was further revealed that the UK's Foreign Office had been briefed about William's statement and his visits recognizing the human suffering and distress from the Israel-Hamas War, including a scheduled trip to a synagogue later this month to talk about the fight against antisemitism. The prince's statement was welcomed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with a spokesperson saying that his cabinet wanted to see the end to the fighting in Gaza as soon as possible, which was "consistent with the government position." "Israelis of course want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible," Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy said in response to William's statement, "and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the 7 October atrocities is dismantled." Meanwhile, British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis stressed that William had shown "deep concern" for the wellbeing of all those affected by the conflict and said that his visit to a synagogue would also "send a powerful message." Despite his title as "Defender of the Faith," referring to the Church of England, William's father, King Charles III, dedicated his life and reign to the cause of interreligious dialogue. However, due to the king's cancer diagnosis - and his wife Catherine spending the next few weeks recovering from a scheduled abdominal surgery - William had to bear the brunt of royal duties, including attending to Charles's causes of interest. Related Article: Gaza's Health Ministry Claims Over 29,000 Palestinians Killed in Israel-Hamas War So Far India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Anil Chauhan, is likely to have a significant role in this year's esteemed Raisina Dialogue, a conference devoted to geopolitics and geoeconomics. During the event, which is set to take place in the nation's capital, Chauhan will meet with top military officials from strategically major nations, including the United States, France, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In 2022, India appointed Chauhan, a general who commanded soldiers on its disputed border with China, as its defense chief to oppose Beijing's military aggressiveness. Gen. Chauhan's Key Role According to Business Upturn, a news publication based in India, it is expected that the CDS would engage in meaningful discussions with military commanders from these partner nations during the dialogue, addressing significant issues of mutual prominence. Reports from inside the defense establishment indicate that Chauhan is going to deliver a speech on key military matters, showcasing the Indian perspective and defense-related endeavors. One of the key tasks assigned to the Office of the CDS by the Narendra Modi government is the theaterization of the armed forces. The objective has been vigorously pursued by Chauhan, who has focused on increasing indigenization within the Indian military forces. Under his leadership, the military has implemented many programs to modernize and enhance strategy. Participants in the 2024 Raisina Dialogue, which will focus on the theme "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create," are expected to come from various industries, including the governmental, corporate, media, and civil society sectors. This multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion will include business, media, and academic leaders, as well as cabinet members and representatives from state and municipal governments. See Also: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Signs Trade Corridor Agreement During UAE Visit In-Depth Discussions The discussion provides a platform for deep talks about global challenges and potential areas of partnership. With Chauhan's advice, India will be able to show the world that it is serious about solving global problems and improving its reputation internationally. The Raisina Dialogue aspires to encourage collaborative endeavors in navigating the intricacy of the contemporary world, being the preeminent forum in India to do so. The diversity of topics covered during the event is indicative of its commitment to finding practical solutions to the world's most pressing challenges. See Also: New Delhi Applauds Qatar's Decision to Release 8 Indian Naval Officers Formerly on Death Row A man who killed himself after fatally shooting two police officers and a firefighter in a wooded Minneapolis-area neighborhood wasn't legally allowed to have guns after a previous assault conviction and was entangled in a yearslong dispute over the custody and financial support of his three oldest children, court records show. Authorities on Monday identified Shannon Gooden, 38, as the man who opened fire on police in the suburb of Burnsville after they responded to a domestic disturbance call early Sunday. The unidentified caller reported that Gooden had barricaded himself in his home with family members, including seven children aged 2 to 15. Authorities said Gooden killed Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, both 27, and Adam Finseth, 40, a firefighter and paramedic who was assigned to the citys SWAT team. Another officer, Sgt. Adam Medlicott, was shot and wounded. Gooden was found dead inside the home hours later; authorities said Tuesday he shot himself in the head. Gooden's standoff with police came only two days before a scheduled district court hearing over his ongoing legal disputes with the mother of his three oldest children. The attorney representing Gooden in that dispute, Robert Manson, did not return a telephone message seeking comment. There was no answer Monday evening at a phone listing for a woman described in court records as Gooden's girlfriend. Court records show the state barred Gooden from possessing guns after he pleaded guilty in 2008, age 22, to second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. Prosecutors said he threw rocks and pulled a knife on a man in a Burnsville shopping mall parking lot. Authorities have not provided details about Sunday's call that led police to Goodens home. Court records suggest he cared for seven children the three oldest by one woman, two more with another and that womans two children from a previous relationship. Court records also show his disputes over the parenting of his oldest three children had grown increasingly contentious. He accused their mother, Noemi Torres, of neglect and she called him controlling and accused him of abusing her and the children. Torres told KARE-TV that their three kids, two boys aged 12 and 15 and a daughter, aged 14, were in the house during the standoff. She said that her daughter told Torres that Gooden put earmuffs on her before he started shooting and that she wasn't scared until he asked, Do you want to come with me? meaning die with him. Torres also told KARE-TV that Gooden had previously said hed shoot police if she called 911 on him. Im going to have a standoff, Torres quoted him as saying, according to brief interview excerpts KARE-TV posted on social media. Im going to kill everybody. Prosecutors had opposed Gooden's effort to restore his right to possess guns after the 2007 incident, in which they said Gooden followed a young woman and a cousin from a mall to a parking lot and threatened to slash their tires. Gooden ran at the woman's brother with a knife, but a security guard disarmed him, so Gooden threw rocks at the brother before speeding away in his own vehicle, prosecutors said. Gooden finished serving five years probation for the 2007 assault charge in 2013. When he petitioned a court unsuccessfully in 2020 to have his gun rights restored, he and his attorney said he had matured and that he regretted his past poor decisions. He is a good man to his peers and his family, one longtime friend wrote to the judge in August 2020. He has personally guided me and many others through some very tough times all through the kindness of his heart. Gooden said in a sworn statement: I greatly regret and have learned from the poor decisions of my past. I would like to have a second chance to prove myself as a productive member of society. The Mellon Foundation has awarded $1 million to the University of North Dakota and the North Dakota Tribal College System to enhance Indigenous humanities education. The money over three years will support training faculty, staff and students in digital humanities, archival skills, cultural resource management and other areas, according to UND. The consortium also will design hybrid for-credit courses across the campuses that can lead to a transcribable certificate at UND in Indigenous Digital Humanities and Archival Methods. "The grant provides a foundation to enhance tribal college and university capacity to enhance humanities offerings, as well as archival, and digital archival efforts, on tribal campuses on behalf of our respective nations," said Leander McDonald, president of United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck. "Efforts such as these are critical to our tribal nations as we seek to establish cultural resources to augment ongoing language and cultural revitalization efforts for future generations." The Tribal College System also includes Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College in New Town, Sitting Bull College in Fort Yates, Cankdeska Cikana Community College in Fort Totten and Turtle Mountain Community College in Belcourt. UND is in Grand Forks. The reclamation of our languages and sustaining of tribal cultural lifeways has always been at the heart of the work of the tribal colleges in North Dakota, said Twyla Baker, chair of of the Tribal College System and president of Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College. She added that By combining our rich histories with better access to technology and expertise, we are preserving our stories for future generations and making them more accessible for Native people living away from their tribal homelands, as well as for broader audiences. Faculty, staff and students will travel between the collaborating institutions, according to UND English professor Crystal Alberts, who will serve in an adviser role at each of the tribal colleges throughout the duration of the grant. Select faculty, staff and students from UND and the tribal colleges also will attend an intensive one-week summer program at UND. Through this partnership, we will exchange knowledge and ideas so that we can build programs, curricula and other opportunities to help communities expand their capacity to preserve their cultural lifeways, while always honoring tribal and data sovereignty, Alberts said. UND President Andrew Armacost said the collaboration will result in a strong foundation to continue the work for years to come. We are grateful for the opportunity to expand access to the study of the humanities -- literature, languages, history, among other fields -- to enable all of us to better understand and appreciate our differences while recognizing the commonalities that we share, he said. The New York City-based Andrew W. Mellon Foundation bills itself as the nations largest supporter of the arts and humanities. It is named for the American businessman who served as U.S. Treasury secretary under Presidents Harding, Coolidge and Hoover. Kimpton Everly Hollywood, the hip Los Angeles hotel that exudes relaxed California sophistication, is pleased to announce the appointment of Benjamin Palmer as General Manager. A seasoned professional in the luxury lifestyle hospitality space, Palmer brings a wealth of experience, deep commitment to employee engagement, and proven track record in strategic growth to the Everly team. Palmer comes to Kimpton Everly Hollywood from Sunset Tower Hotel where he was Hotel Manager. His leadership was marked by a keen focus on excellence and innovation, setting new standards in guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. Prior to his tenure at Sunset Tower, Palmer was at the helm of the Hotel 850 SVB and San Vicente Bungalows, the highly exclusive membership club known for its exceptional service and commercial success. Under his guidance, these properties saw significant expansion, further cementing their status in the luxury hospitality market. Palmer's career that began with Hilton, where he spent seven years across various U.S. locations, and he has also held leadership positions at the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. Palmer attended the prestigious General Managers Program at Cornell University's SC Johnson School of Business, and he also holds a bachelor's degree from Point Park University. Grace Bay Resorts, the boutique developer, owner, and operator of the finest luxury resorts and branded residences in Turks and Caicos Islands, today announces the appointment of John Hazard as Managing Director of Grace Bay Club. In his new role, Hazard will supervise all operational aspects of Grace Bay Club and help oversee the completion of its multi-year, multi-million-dollar renovation initiative which includes a new beach club concept and beachfront cabanas, fully renovated Villa suites and a refresh to the public areas. With over 20 years of leadership experience within the luxury hospitality industry, Hazard brings with him a remarkable track record that will further the continued success and growth of Grace Bay Resorts. Prior to joining Grace Bay Resorts, Hazard held the position of Vice President of Operations and Asset Management at L+R Hotels in England. In this role, he successfully managed a diverse portfolio of properties across the United States and the Caribbean. His strategic vision and leadership played a pivotal role in the thriving success of these properties. Hazard also served as Operational General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos Islands, where he was instrumental in leading the resort's opening campaign and helped earn the prestigious World Travel Award for the best Luxury Opening of Caribbean's Leading New Resort in 2021. With a background that also spans key roles with Marriott, such as General Manager of Marriott Grand Cayman, Qatar, and Grosvenor Square, London, Hazard brings a wealth of expertise that aligns seamlessly with the vision and standards of Grace Bay Club. Timur Sentuerk joined Kempinski in 2022 having previously gathered senior management experience at iconic hospitality brands including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Oberoi Hotels and Langham Hospitality Group. Appointed as Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, he has been instrumental over the past two years to the operational success within the two regions and managed the regional offices in both Europe and MEA. Retreat Hotels & Resorts (Retreat), the Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority (GAEA), and the City of Perry, GA announced the start of construction of a new TownePlace Suites / Fairfield by Marriott dual-branded hotel on the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter (Fairgrounds) in Perry, GA. The hotel is expected to open in the summer of 2025. The planned 129-key hotel features two brands under one roof, with 66 TownePlace Suites by Marriott keys and 63 Fairfield by Marriott keys. The property will be connected via an air-conditioned corridor to the adjacent conference center, the Miller Murphy Howard Center. Other amenities include a large pool, fitness center, guest laundry, bar, and restaurant. The hotel is affiliated with Marriott, which is the largest hotel franchisor in the world. The TownePlace Suites is one of Marriotts extended stay brands which caters to longer-term guests, whether that be individuals, families, or Fairground attendees. The Fairfield by Marriott brand is Marriotts second-largest brand, with more than 124,000 keys globally, across 1,253 properties. Drawing inspiration from the Marriott familys retreat, The Fairfield Farm, this brand places emphasis on simplicity, and caters to leisure and business travelers. This is the first Marriott in the Perry market, and the only Marriott hotel within a 15-mile radius. The Fairgrounds are run by the by the GAEA, a state-appointed authority. The GAEA was created in 1985, through legislation, and was tasked with creating a facility to showcase Georgias agriculture/agribusiness, promote youth agricultural events and achievements, and provide a center for diverse activities to benefit the state economy such as the Georgia National Fair. The Fairgrounds hosts more than 200 events per year, with approximately one million visitors. The hotel site abuts I-75 which has a daily traffic count of approximately 65,000. The City of Perry, Georgia is an historic community that encompasses over 27 square miles along I-75 right in the heart of Georgia. The community enjoys a unique downtown, excellent schools, a high quality of life, and proximity to Robins Air Force Base. As an award-winning premier community, Perry is focused on supporting strategic economic and community development while providing quality customer service to its citizens. The project is financed by WSFS Bank, based in Wilmington, DE. The General Contractor for the project is Foutz Brothers Construction, based in Gainesville, GA. The architectural design for the project was created by Chamberlain Architect Services Limited, based in Ontario, Canada, with civil engineering provided by Triple Point Engineering, based in Macon, GA, and interior design done by Design Continuum, Inc., based in Atlanta, GA. Were thrilled to begin construction. The hotel has been perfectly designed for the environment, we have strong hotel flags provided by Marriott, and terrific partners in the GAEA and the City of Perry. We cant wait to welcome and delight guests from Georgia, and around the world. JJ Singh, President of Retreat Hotels & Resorts WSFS is proud to partner again with the team at Retreat Hotels and Resorts, to provide financing on this project. This hotel is a welcome addition to our commercial real estate portfolio on the East Coast. Ron Weingrad, Senior Vice President of WSFS Bank Breaking ground on this hotel is a major milestone. The Fairgrounds have long needed first-class accommodations on-site to complement our robust operations. Foster Rhodes, Chairman of the GAEA We are pleased to partner with Retreat Hotels & Resorts on the TownePlace / Fairfield hotel. This hotel will further enhance the experience of our visitors. Stephen Shimp, Fairgrounds Executive Director We are delighted to support the new hotel at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on our community now and for future generations. City of Perry Mayor Randall Walker In addition to the development of a much-needed asset for the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter, this hotel will support economic development throughout Perry and bolster our tourism assets. Were excited to watch this development progress and look forward to meeting new friends that choose to visit Perry and stay at this hotel. Holly Wharton, City of Perry Economic Development Director About Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority On July 1, 1985 legislation passed creating the Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority (GAEA). The main objectives were: To provide a facility for youth organizations to exhibit, learn and compete To provide a facility where agricultural organizations could stage presentations, promotions, and exhibits To establish a state-owned, statewide agricultural fair To develop a facility that would generate revenue and benefit state economy The GAEAs mission is to: Showcase Georgias agriculture/agribusiness Promote the agricultural achievements of Georgias young people Provide a center for diverse activities to benefit the states economy Stage and promote a statewide fair to accomplish one or more of the above For more information: https://www.gnfa.com/ About Perry, GA The City of Perry, Georgia is an historic community that encompasses over 27 square miles along I-75 right in the heart of Georgia. The community enjoys a unique downtown, excellent schools, a high quality of life, and proximity to Robins Air Force Base. As an award-winning premier community, Perry is focused on supporting strategic economic and community development while providing quality customer service to its citizens. For more information: https://perry-ga.gov/ About WSFS Bank WSFS Financial Corporation is a multibillion-dollar financial services company. Its primary subsidiary, WSFS Bank, is the oldest and largest locally headquartered bank and trust company in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware region. As of December 31, 2022, WSFS Financial Corporation had $19.9 billion in assets on its balance sheet and $64.5 billion in assets under management and administration. WSFS operates from 119 offices, 92 of which are banking offices, located in Pennsylvania (61), Delaware (39), New Jersey (17), Virginia (1) and Nevada (1) and provides comprehensive financial services including commercial banking, retail banking, cash management and trust and wealth management. Other subsidiaries or divisions include Arrow Land Transfer, Bryn Mawr Capital Management, LLC, Bryn Mawr Trust, The Bryn Mawr Trust Company of Delaware, Cash Connect, NewLane Finance, Powdermill Financial Solutions, WSFS Institutional Services, WSFS Mortgage, and WSFS Wealth Investments. Serving the Greater Delaware Valley since 1832, WSFS Bank is one of the ten oldest banks in the United States continuously operating under the same name. For more information: www.wsfsbank.com About Foutz Brothers Construction The team at Foutz Brothers Construction has decades of experience in general contracting and construction management across the commercial and residential sectors. Having directed more than 40 projectsvalued in excess of more than $1 billionthe Foutz Brothers, led by Chris and Jerry Foutz, have focused on three core tenets: exceptional quality, lasting relationships, and relentless efficiency. These core values have driven the success of their projects, and their long-term partnerships with owners, contractors, communities, and investors. For more information: www.foutzbrothers.com Chamberlain Working across North America and globally for over three decades, Chamberlain has been dedicated to improving means, methods and processes for successful realization of great environments. We focus on creating and sustaining value for your investments. Every project we design and construct comes with the research and experience of our expert team who are dedicated to solving your unique challenges. Pioneers in the use of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), Leaders in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building Information Modelling (BIM), we utilize the latest technology and processes available to create cutting edge, sustainable and relevant solutions for your needs. Chamberlain is the Owners Advocate, from first sketch to ribbon cutting, integrating design and construction to save time and money while creating the buildings that embody your brand. Augmenting our IPD/LEED/BIM processes with our Quality Management System (QMS) allows us to navigate the complex permitting and approval maze in a timely manner. Our focus is to Listen to your needs, Learn your business and Lead you through the complex and sometimes contradictory world of project realization within an atmosphere of exemplary communication and collaboration. For more information: https://www.chamberlainipd.com/ Triple Point Engineering Triple Point Engineering specializes in delivering highly effective, cost-efficient civil and environmental engineering solutions for our clients. Our team of engineers and scientists are ready to leverage their technical expertise with creativity, thorough planning, and innovative approaches to efficiently meet our clients needs in these core areas: development, mining & landfill compliance, and the environment. No company is more dedicated to doing the groundwork. Our team uses expertise to perform sound project planning, thorough project management, and timely delivery. We assist our clients with meeting budgetary objectives, project milestones, and regulatory compliance deadlines. For more information: https://www.tpointeng.com/ Design Continuum, Inc. With five decades of experience and footsteps on five continents, Design Continuum, Inc. brings a vast knowledge and understanding of the creation of interior spaces. Our team of seasoned architects and designers are guided through the process by our senior leadership team of Karen Jenkins, Stephanie Boyd, and Austin Brown. With careful attention to detail, we provide highly successful interiors for a range of projects. In addition to creativity and enthusiasm, we take pride in our reputation for providing excellent personal service. Prior clients include: Disney, Hyatt, Novotel, Hilton, Four Seasons, Westin, Ritz Carlton, Sofitel, IHG, Salamander, Marriott, and Sheraton. For more information: https://dciatl.com/ About Retreat Hotels & Resorts Retreat Hotels & Resorts turns striking visions into reality by developing, owning, and operating hotels where travelers can escape, recharge, and leave invigorated, and refreshed. Retreat Hotels & Resorts has a three-fold mission: Create an unrivaled guest experience, where guests return year after year. Be a responsible member of the community and proactively protect and preserve the environment. Provide a warm and inviting place to work where hard work, creativity, and ethical practices are rewarded--a place where employees want a career that can last a lifetime. For more information: www.retreathotels.com. JJ Singh President Retreat Hotels & Resorts Geneva Sharing best regional practices and leveraging experiences to grow the Kempinski brand comes with the switch of regions for two COOs at Kempinski Hotels: Xavier Destribats, during the past seven years Chief Operations Officer, The Americas, moves back from Cuba to Geneva and takes over the European region in addition to The Americas. Timur Sentuerk, who lately oversaw Europe, the Middle East and Africa, is moving to Dubai to fully concentrate on the Middle East and Africa. Both top executives are members of the Managing Board of Kempinski Hotels. The switch of regions of these two top leaders signifies an inspiring knowledge transfer from their vast experience in different work and cultural environments, says Rene Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kempinski Hotels S.A. Moreover, in consideration of the substantial development pipeline within the Middle East and Africa, holding high strategical importance for Kempinskis footfall and prominence as a global leading luxury brand, it has become critical over time to split the responsibilities for the regions as the scopes became too large , says Rene Nijhof, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kempinski Hotels S.A. With a total of 27 new development projects around the globe, we are proud to have such experienced top leaders overseeing and steering operations in these very crucial regions. Xavier Destribats joined Kempinski in 2011, having previously worked with Morgan Stanley Capital and Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Initially appointed as Senior Vice President of Operations, he took over the role of President Europe in 2014. In line with the companys strategic plans of expansion in the Americas, and the immediate need of strong leadership presence in the region, Xavier has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer the Americas in 2017. Timur Sentuerk joined Kempinski in 2022 having previously gathered senior management experience at iconic hospitality brands including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Oberoi Hotels and Langham Hospitality Group. Appointed as Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, he has been instrumental over the past two years to the operational success within the two regions and managed the regional offices in both Europe and MEA. The owner of Sopharma Pharmaceuticals Ognian Donev and the owner of Darik Radio (revealed to have been a collaborator of the Communist regime secret services with the alias Karak) Radosvet Radev are on their way to become top bankers in the Republic of Moldova. Their joint venture DOVERIE UNITED-HOLDING PLC is purchasing a 63.9% stake in Moldavian bad apple Moldindconbank S.A. (MICB). In 2010-2014, this bank, the second largest bank in Moldova, was involved in large-scale international scandals about which Bivol also wrote. The scandal, known as the Laundromat, involves the laundering of USD 22 billion from Russia as well as the syphoning of over USD 1 billion from the Republic of Moldovas banking system an affair called by the local media the theft of the century. The deal was made clear by the official press release of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM), the countrys central bank, announcing the acquisition agreement on its site on Tuesday, January 22. The Executive Board of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) decided on Tuesday, 22 January 2019, to give the prior permission to DOVERIE UNITED-HOLDING AD for the acquisition of the share package in the amount of 63,89 percent of BC Moldindconbank S.A., the press release said. Delighted by the Bulgarian investor Moldindconbank is the second largest bank in the Republic of Moldova (photo: TV8.md) The Moldovan banking regulators announcement also states that the investor expresses his interest in an appropriate period for BC Moldindconbank S.A., after the NBM decided by law, on 18 January 2019, to extend for the last three-month period the sale deadline of the newly issued shares of this bank. Thus, according to NBM, the takeover of the single share package by the investor will create conditions for an orderly leaving from the NBM early intervention regime, so that the BC Moldindconbank S.A. not to be affected. This will continue to operate in normal regime and provide the full range of services, including those related to deposits, lending and settlement operations. DOVERIE UNITED-HOLDING AD intends to come up to BC Moldindconbank S.A. with a team of managers with a broad international experience in the banking sector. In this regard, the NBM assesses the intention of the potential investor as a notable opportunity to develop Moldindconbank on long-term and to increase the competitiveness and quality of services provided to its customers DOVERIE UNITED-HOLDING AD aims to enter into the banking market of the Republic of Moldova after an ample assessment of the market evolution and the economic context of the country DOVERIE UNITED-HOLDING AD is presented to be one of the most important companies in Bulgaria, which was founded in 1996 as a privatization fund with a participation portfolio in more than 20 economic enterprises that operate in more countries of the region, the press release of the NBM further says. The NBM press release According to the online edition Newsmaker.md, on January 23, the authorities in Chisinau had to meet in the National Committee for Financial Stability to decide on only one issue whether to negotiate the way the deal takes place whether the State would buy the MICB shares and then sell it to the investor, as was the case with Moldova Agroindbank (the largest bank that was under special supervision). From pharmacies to banks The newly appointed Governor of the NBM (until recently Minister of Finance) Octavian Armasu personally boasted the deal with the Bulgarians before Moldovan journalists. He assured the media that the investor had passed all the checks and it was a reliable company. The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Octavian Armasu, is certain that the Bulgarian company DOVERIE is a trusted ( doverie in Bulgarian means trust) investor (picture: the National Bank of Moldova) According to the Governor, DOVERIE could afford such a deal as it has enough money to buy the banks shares and maintain its operations. He was also firm that DOVERIE does not have even a potential conflict of interest as a foreign company. The prospective buyer is not linked to Moldova, and there are no Moldovan citizens in the companys leadership, he said. Octavian Armasu forgot to mention that in April 2017, Sopharma, in which Ognian Donev is the majority shareholder, managed to buy in Moldova the controlling stake of 51% of a chain of ten pharmacies from the local RAP Pharma International. The deal was approved by the local watchdog the Competition Council of the Republic of Moldova. The chain of pharmacies at that time held about 3% of the market share in the phramaceutical retail in Moldova. As the Moldovan edition Mold Street wrote, the established in 2004 company RAP Pharma International has also had shareholders from Bulgaria, precisely the company Molfarm Ltd, which had been controlled by the Bulgarian citizen Plamen Milanov. Milanovs firm held 80% in RAP Pharma International, and the other 20% belonged to Moldovan Victor Alergus. In 2014, RAP Pharma International built a chain of ten pharmacies and after that it received a retail license. In 2017, the controlling stake of 51% was bought by Bulgarian Sopharma Pharmaceuticals. A check by Bivol in the Trade Register showed that Molfarm Ltd has been indeed registered in the Bulgarian capital in 2014 by Plamen Stefanov Milanov at the following address 5 Vazkresenie Blvd, Krasna Polyana district, 1330 Sofia. The registered funding capital was BGN 20,000. The scope of activity includes wholesale in the country and abroad of medicinal products, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, consumables, cosmetics and others, commercial intermediation and representation, consultancy, as well as any other commercial activity which is not forbidden by law. Two other companies owned by Milanov are registered at the same address Hospice Faith and Hope Ltd (2013) and First Company Ltd (2008). Molfarm Ltd. is a Bulgarian company that sold its pharmacies in Moldova to Sopharma First Company Ltd also has a connection with Moldova as it has been registered in partnership with Moldovan national Ruslan Pavlovic Rotar. The registered founding capital was BGN 5,000. The main business activity is wholesale and retail of pharmaceutical, medical and an orthopedic products. Special oversight of MICB Since June 2015, Moldindconbank is under the special supervision of the NBM, together with two other banks Moldova-Agroindbank (MAIB) and Victoriabank. The special supervision is introduced in cases when it is established that the bank or its shareholder or management have violated the Credit Institutions Act of the Republic of Moldova or other normative acts of the NBM, including the licensing terms. Then, NBM blocked these 63.89% of MICB shares and another 43% of the shares of Moldovan Agroindbank (MAIB) Moldovas largest bank. The owners of the two leading banks in Moldova were exposed in being in a cartel agreement. Shareholders with blocked shares were ordered to sell their shares within three months in 2015, but they did not. Therefore, MICB and MAIB canceled these shares and held a new issue of shares. They issued new shares in the same volume as the canceled ones, after which they were put up for sale, but buyers had not been found immediately. Three of the four largest banks in Moldova have been under special supervision before their sale, including MICB As early as 2015, the Moldovan government announced it would act as an intermediary between banks and potential strategic investors. The aim was to assuage buyers fears that bank assets in Moldova could be a dubious investment. In its press release, the NBM acknowledges that in September 2017, the company has also received the NBM prior permission to acquire the share package of another licensed bank of the Republic of Moldova. For objective reasons that transaction was not carried out. The objective stumbling block is the acquisition of the fourth-largest Moldovan bank Victoriabank by one of the leading financial groups in Romania Banca Transilvania (BT). In the beginning of 2018 Victoriabank was sold to the Romanians for about RON 766 million (about EUR 40 million). According to information provided by business journalist Ion Preasca of Bivols partner the center for investigative journalism RISE Moldova, the Bulgarians have indeed negotiated not only for Victoribank but also for the largest bank in Moldova, MAIB, with a loan portfolio of about RON 20 billion (EUR 1, 2 billion). Representatives of the Bulgarian buyer had met with the NBM for this reason, but a deal was reached only in early 2019, when the MICB acquisition was agreed. The bank that is known for theft The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) broke the story of the Laundromat in 2014, but in 2015, the reporters from OCCRP and Novaya Gazeta in Moscow obtained a wealth of bank records which they then opened to investigative reporters in 32 countries. According to RISE, it was the largest money laundering scheme in the history of Eastern Europe. Of the entire USD 40 billion in the Laundromat scandal, a little over half of the money (USD 22 billion) had passed through the Moldovan MICB. The scheme had been implemented between 2010 and 2014, when various criminal groups and corrupt politicians had managed to transfer billions from the Russian Federation through the laundering mechanism consisting of straw legal entities business owners, financial institutions and fake credits. The proverbially corrupt Moldovan politicians and government clerks had provided the cover-up for the scam. At its last stage, appearances of compliance with the law had been created, such as court rules, allowing funds to flow to Western Europe and offshores. At the same time, according to Moldovan prosecutors, more than 90 different Russian companies have participated in the Laundromat and have made thousands of cash transactions to bank accounts in Moldova, from where MICB has redirected them to various offshore jurisdictions. Veaceslav Platon controlled MICB, profiteering from dubious operations such as the Laundromat in 2010-2014 Former shareholders, and some of those remaining in the Bank, are associated with Russian-Ukrainian businessman Veaceslav Platon, who was arrested in Kiev in 2017 under a mutual agreement between the President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko and Moldavian oligarch and politician Vladimir Plahotniuc, chairman of the Democratic Party of Moldova. After that Veaceslav Platon was extradited to Moldova, where there is an ongoing court trial against him while he remains in detention in Chisinau. He is charged with money laundering and unsecured lending. Ukrainian and Moldovan citizens, some of his friends, representatives of various Ukrainian and Russian companies, all of them, as proxy-type shareholders, have been part of Platons organized crime group, Ion Preasca told Bivol. A new life with an old name Preasca says that MICB is currently in a very decent condition for a bank that is under special supervision. It has reported a profit of RON 500 million (about EUR 25 million) in 2018, which is more than a third of the profits of the entire banking sector of Moldova in the past year, he explains. According to him, the price of the MICB share package had been established by the NBM on the stock exchange at RON 760 million (about EUR 39 million), and it is a very good price for such a bank with surprisingly good loan portfolio indicators, even better than the one bought by the Romanians Victoriabank. That is precisely why, according to Preascas sources, the Romanian Banca Transilvania had wanted the most to acquire MICB as the second largest by assets in Moldova and not Victoriabank, which currently ranks fourth (the third is Mobiasbanca of the French Societe Generale Group). The Moldovan journalist also explained that the main costs for the banks recovery have already been calculated, and in the last and the year before last, procedures for independent international audit, due diligence, including by the American KPMG, have been carried out The Investigation by Bivols partners in the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) partners RISE Moldova and Novaya Gazeta (chart by http://www.rise.md) Nevertheless, despite the perfect condition for a bank under special supervision, the acquisition of MICB can lead to serious reputation problems for DOVERIE. The risks of political and legal nature are related to the potential claims of the former shareholders in the Bank, who could eventually pursue new actions to recover their rights or to be compensated for their shares, Ion Preasca explained. The reason is the scandal with the Laundromat, which has tarnished the international image of the Bank. The Moldovan journalist commented that one of the decisions would be to rebrand the Bank by changing its name, something that can have a positive effect, but can also inflict damages to the Bank, as he stressed. Ion Preasca recalled that the sale of MICB was set as early as 2016 as one of the mandatory conditions for obtaining a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to Moldova. This is one of the commitments under the IMF Memorandum the new shareholders should be individuals or companies with a good and corroborated image, the RISE Moldova journalist said. According to him, the authorities in Chisinau have decided that the last unsold to investors troubled bank should not become a stumbling block for new IMF funding. DOVERIE to Bivol: We are not a Sopharma subsidiary The Chairman of the Supervisory Board of DOVERIE Radosvet Radev and Ognian Donev (picture: Capital) On January 23, Bivol attempted to reach the management of DOVERIE for comment, but no one answered the phones listed for contact. That is why we sent emails to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sopharma Ognian Donev with nine questions on the necessity of the deal in Moldova by DOVERIE Holding, in which Radosvet Radev and Donevs son Ivan Donev are members of the Supervisory Board. We received the following replies from DOVERIEs e-mail address. What is DOVERIE planning to achieve with the acquisition of MICB? As you know, in the last year, the Republic of Moldova has made some decisive steps to improve its banking sector. As part of these efforts, the largest Moldovan bank, Moldova Agroindbank, was sold to a non-strategic investor Latvian and US non-financial institutions, with a minority stake acquired by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The third largest bank, Victoriabank, was also sold to an investor a financial institution from Romania. We believe that the participation in this process is a good opportunity for Holding DOVERIE, which has strong positions in the Bulgarian financial sector. Is it true that the package price is RON 760 million? For now, we cannot talk at all about a price. The shares are not the subject of a sale and the Republic of Moldova is yet to determine the basic parameters of a possible transaction a tender procedure and a buyer. In any event, as far as we know, if there is a sale, it will be organized by the Moldovan State through a public auction in which all interested parties may participate. Only the Moldovan State may be the seller, through the Moldovan State Property Agency. Arent you worried that the Bank will have to be rebranded for having the reputation of the most scandalous Moldovan financial institution that has laundered USD 22 billion from Russia in the Laundromat Affair? Is DOVERIEs management aware of the role of the Bank in the so-called theft of the century with the syphoning of more than USD 1 billion from the Moldovan banking system? Regarding the reputation of the asset that may be the subject of a sale, we believe that after two years of direct management by the National Bank of Moldova, the necessary measures have been taken to align the organization of banking activities in Moldova with European standards. Of course, we are aware of the scandals described in detail on the Internet, but we think that they concern specific officials who are not currently employees of the Bank. Moreover, the two banks that were the subject of a deal had the same or similar problems, but this did not prevent EU and US investors from buying shares in them. Last but not least, the EBRD is a co-owner in both deals. The National Bank of Moldova has required that the investor does not have any business in Moldova? However, the parent company, Sopharma, controls a chain of pharmacies in Moldova, isnt this a violation and would that make it non-eligible? We are not aware of the requirement of the National Bank of Moldova that you quote that the potential investor in the banking sector must not have a business in Moldova. We believe that you have not been properly informed but, nevertheless, we would like to point out that Sopharma is not a parent company of Holding DOVERIE and, as far as we know, does not control a chain of pharmacies in Moldova. Does DOVERIE have the reputation of a strategic investor in the banking sector, a necessary condition for acquiring the supervised MICB? We believe that the answer to this question is given by a previous decision of the National Bank of Moldova, which in 2018 issued a license to DOVERIE to be a potential buyer of the Victoriabank share package that was subsequently purchased by a consortium with the participation of the EBRD and the Romanian Banka Transilvania. Was there any cooperation from the Bulgarian authorities for the deal in Chisinau? The Bulgarian authorities are fully irrelevant to our business activities in the Republic of Moldova. On what grounds has DOVERIE been denied the acquisition of Moldova Agroindbank and Victoriabank in the Republic of Moldova? It is not true that DOVERIE was denied the acquisition of Moldova Agroindbank or Victoriabank. On the contrary, DOVERIE was granted an official authorization by the National Bank of Moldova to buy a package of shares from Victoriabank, which is verifiable in the register of the National Bank of Moldova, and regarding Moldova Agroindbank we have never applied for a license to buy the latter. What are Doveries plans to stabilize the Bank long-term development or resale? DOVERIEs plans are for the long-term development of the Holding in the Republic of Moldova in the event that we are selected as a buyer. Although in its responses to Bivol, DOVERIE denies having a direct relationship with Sopharma, the shares ownership and presence in Ivan Donevs in the Supervisory Board reveals the potential conflict of interest under Moldovan law. Sopharma is a major shareholder in DOVERIE United Holding However, it is no coincidence that the IMF required in the Memorandum with the Republic of Moldova that the NBM should not allow companies that are already operating in Chisinau. This was confirmed by the cited by Bivol Governor of the NBM, Octavian Armasu, according to whom the lack of investors business in the country had been decisive. But then again, the facts speak for themselves Sopharma Pharmaceuticals, of which one of DOVERIEs owners, Ognian Donev, is Chairman, Managing Director and a majority shareholder, is already operating in Moldova since 2017 when it bought the aforementioned pharmacies. NIKOLAY MARCHENKO Nikolay Marchenko is a journalist specializing in economic and international affairs. He has worked in the Sega newspaper, the LiveBiz.bg business portal, and is currently a correspondent in Sofia of the respected Russian newspaper Kommersant. *** If you find this article useful, support our work with a small donation. Pay a Bivol Tax! We will highly appreciate if you decide to support us with monthly donations keeping the option Monthly Like this: Like Loading... This post is also available in: Bulgarian Wars, recessions, and outbreaksNo matter the hardship that arrives at hospitalitys door, its foundations remain stable and sturdy. Despite enduring significant challenges in recent years, the sector has shown impressive resilience and continues to grow at a rate of 5.9%, almost double that of the UK economy.1 However, with the recent publication of UKHospitalitys three-point plan for the sector to thrive, the Home Departments New Plan for Immigration, and uncertainty surrounding Chancellor Jeremy Hunts economic plans, the hospitality industry finds itself at a crossroads. While acknowledging the positive steps taken to alleviate industry pressures, major reforms are still needed to address issues such as insufficient investment and labour shortages. Only with active change can a long-term future of prosperity be ensured for one of the UKs most important sectors. Giving hospitality the means to thrive With recent reports indicating over a third of UK hospitality business struggled to make ends meet in Q4 of 2023, the extension of the 75% business rate discount in November was a temporary but welcome reprieve. That said, the Government must now consider long-term reforms to ensure sustained success for the sector. A good place to start is addressing the business rates multiplier, currently at a restrictive 51%. With a further 6.4% rise expected, hospitality must begin counting the pennies to cover an anticipated 150m bill.2 A reduction in the Spring Budget, or a temporary freeze in the immediacy, would provide relief to businesses already grappling with increased costs. Additionally, to support businesses and remove the barriers to growth, the Government must reduce the burden of property tax in the UK, currently at 4% of GDP and the highest in the OECD economies. Those in charge should also consider lowering the VAT rate for the sectora measure that provided vital sustenance to businesses during the pandemiceven if only temporarily. Such reform will provide a means to navigate rising prices and invest in improvements without expecting consumers to pick up the tab, an unfair measure already taken by 72% of hospitality businesses.3 Avoid further depleting the talent pool Labour shortages, now 48% higher than pre-COVID levels, have plunged hospitality into a serious crisis.4 Home Secretary James Cleverlys five-point immigration plan will only exacerbate this situation, considering that 58% of UK hospitality workers are from overseas.5 At Burgh Island, we know how important access to global talent is, given workers from abroad shore up our Guest Relations, Events, and Housekeeping teams. Without them, operations on our private island would ground to a halt. Critically, the proposal would prohibit employers from paying workers 20% less for jobs on the shortage occupation list, which enables easier recruitment of foreign workers during times of domestic shortage. Reducing the number of hospitality visas issued by up to 95%, this change would soon cause the talent pool to run dry. If the Government insists on forcing businesses to close their doors to workers from overseas, it must also reform the restrictive Apprenticeship Levy. By making training schemes more welcoming to those deterred by a mandatory 12-month commitment, businesses will have more opportunities to show potential workers that hospitality is not a CV stop-gap but a lifelong, career-worthy field. Sustaining a cultural cornerstone While reforms are crucial for the survival and growth of businesses, there is a broader need to preserve hospitality as a key element of UK culture. As the tenth most visited country in the world, the UK remains among the hotspots for eager travellers.6 With tourism contributing 214bn to the economy, attracting 30 million visitors annually, the UK cannot afford the demise of a sector that provides these guests with a place to rest their weary heads, the very best of British cuisine, and a gateway to the wealth of history our culture-rich isles have to offer.7 But beyond shoring up the sectors finances, any change should encourage hospitality to build a foundation with long-term strategies at the core. By reforming around the modern-day traveller, such as through sustainability and community-conscious practices or by creating unique personalised experiences, the sector can forge a future fit for allthat wont require immediate modernisation. By working in tandem, hospitality and government can not only maintain but strengthen an industry crucial to the UK economy, identity, and culture. 1. https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/hospitality-industry-in-the-united-kingdom 2. https://www.thecaterer.com/news/autumn-statement-2023 3. https://www.thecaterer.com/news/business-rates-hospitality-relief-ukhospitality 4. https://www.ukhospitality.org.uk/campaign/workforce/ 5. GLA Economics, Changes to UK Immigration Policy, December 2023 6. https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/travel-guide/top-10-most-visited-european-countries/ 7. https://www.condorferries.co.uk/uk-tourism-statistics Back in the days of yore or, for those who measure time this way, pre-pandemic resorts were something of a specialist interest, similar to learning one-handed backflips in your free time. You could see how it was fun, but in the main, hotel investors did not understand it and couldnt really see the point. Why not learn about something you could actually use, such as a business hotel? And with fewer complexities to boot. The consumer also had mixed emotions about resorts. To them, they were seen as one step along from package holidays. Was there any culture to be had? Were you even allowed off the compound? The exception to this was the ultra-high-end realm of Aman Resorts, but that occupied a very specific niche where few mortals trod. That all changed during the pandemic, where having a compound became a very good thing to have indeed. Even now, with travel volumes returning to normal, the thrill hasnt worn off. The evolution was well underway before 2020, led by groups such as NH Hotels, which in 2018 signed an agreement with Apple Leisure Group to bring AMResorts brands to Europe, including its all-inclusive Amigo flag. All-inclusive came with the same wariness to many as did package holidays. But with strong branding and a move upscale led by the expertise honed by properties in the Caribbean the niche segment has been gaining traction. They now come with yachts, luxury experiences and high-end amenities, all backed by the reassurance that you pay once and then youre done. Marriott Internationals President and CEO Anthony Capuano has even spoken of all-inclusive being part of the Ritz-Carlton brand. Marriott is not alone. InterContinental Hotels announced a long-term agreement with Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, and Hyatt Hotels Corp. scooped up Apple Leisure Group in 2021 for $2.7 billion. The deal saw Hyatt double its global resort footprint through the addition of ALGs 100-strong AMR Collection brand portfolio. Unlike renting out rooms to housebound workers looking to get away from their noisy family and roommates for a few hours, this is a pandemic trend that has entered long-term strategies. Even while it was announcing the return of corporate travel earlier this year, Hyatt completed the acquisition of Mr & Mrs Smith and reported that luxury, lifestyle and resort hotels now made up more than 40% of its portfolio. In June, Accor announced plans to open more than 1,200 hotels in the next five years, increasing the number of its resorts by more than 20%. That was followed by Marriotts strategic licensing agreement with MGM Resorts, which encompasses 40,000 rooms in Las Vegas and five other key U.S. markets and would, the group said, bring us new customers and a host of new experiences. At Marriotts security analyst meeting at the end of September, Global Development Officer Carlton Ervin said: We are the undisputed leader in terms of open resorts around the world. Since this group last met, weve signed 15,000 additional rooms of all-inclusive, which shows you how important that is to us. And thats a really intriguing segment for us for growth. We are the No. 2 upper-upscale and luxury all-inclusive operator in the world. And while we are not resting on our luxury laurels, we certainly dont intend to rest on our leisure laurels. Ervin also talked about Marriott's strategy in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, a region which is widely felt to be underrepresented by resorts. Most recently, Singapores sovereign wealth fund GIC has invested in a 35% stake in Hotel Investment Partners, which owns resort hotels in Southern Europe. Blackstone will remain the majority shareholder. HIPs founder and CEO Alejandro Hernandez-Puertolas said the partners cumulative size, scale and capital will bolster our ability to continue the transformation of the hotel landscape in Southern Europe. In my experience of asset-managing many luxury beach resorts across the oceans, from Bali to Bora Bora to Ibiza, there are often common issues specific to high-end resorts that investors should be aware of and shouldnt underestimate. Lets take two typical examples. Firstly, apart from being very opaque, the loyalty programs of certain hotel brands can be very detrimental to the profit margin. By nature, the redeemed points are nearly always used at holiday destinations, and we have many examples of strong reward programs leading to lower average rates at resorts. Furthermore, loyalty programs do not necessarily attract the right customers to your hotel. Often they will not have the same spending power as a client who is paying the full rate. All this will negatively affect the profitability of the hotel. Therefore, this issue should be taken into consideration before selecting an operator. If your resort is already branded, the hotel asset managers should carefully monitor the production of the loyalty program and challenge the source of your customers to avoid paying high commission fees, especially during high seasons. Secondly, due to the nature of most all-inclusive locations, the elements damage their buildings more rapidly, so additional capital-expenditure spending is often required versus your traditional city hotel. Hotel owners need to keep a close eye on the preventive maintenance undertaken by the operator. Just as we have seen in the traditional luxury segment, resorts are now in a race to offer evermore remarkable stays. Stays must be experience-driven, underpinned with the very best of what a hotel can offer, with moments of surprise and a constant anticipation of what the guest wants. That is a far cry from the traditional image of a resort, with a pool, kids club and a performance by a local dance troupe in the evening. Delivering a one-of-a-kind resort stay requires expert knowledge. Not delivering it risks disappointment from guests and owners alike. *This article was originally publised on Hotel News Now. Alex Sogno CEO & Senior Hotel Asset Manager Global Asset Solutions Cambria Hotel Burbank Airport Choice Hotels International, Inc. announces the opening of Cambria Hotel Burbank Airport. The new hotel offers 150 rooms, upscale amenities and is located just a mile from Burbank airport and a short distance from West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The Burbank property was developed by Choice Hotels as part of its strategic development of Cambria hotels in well-situated markets, reflecting the companys commitment to growing and expanding the brand. The company continues to invest in all aspects of Cambria to make it a standard-setting brand in its upscale portfolio. The Cambria Hotel Burbank Airport is the latest example of high-quality hotels that continue to open under the Cambria Brand, said Indy Adenaw, senior vice president and general manager, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. This hotel reflects our deep commitment to the Cambria brand and was developed directly by the company. Burbank will offer an upscale experience that our guests will love and will soon become the jewel for the Burbank market. This announcement highlights a strong recent record and momentum for Cambria Hotels. Burbank marks the 9th new opening since the start of 2023 and comes on the heels of Cambria winning the J.D. Power award for the highest-ranking brand in the upscale category. Even with this momentum, Choice Hotels continues to invest in strengthening and advancing the brand. An evolution to brand positioning work is now underway with RO New York, an award winning and accomplished agency, and a new design package is underway with Design Agency, another skilled design and architecture agency. As part of Choices focused self-development strategy, the company strategically develops a small number of hotels such as Burbank, in select high-value locations to fuel brand growth and to advance key components of the brand and operating model. These assets are later sold to third party owners, along with the Cambria flag, as Choice maintains its commitment to the franchising business model. A Strong 2023 for the Cambria Brand Cambria enjoyed a successful year with the following recent openings: Cambria Hotel Austin Uptown near the Domain Cambria Hotel Detroit Downtown Cambria Hotel Orlando Universal Blvd Cambria Hotel Copper Mountain Cambria Hotel Lake Placid - Lakeside Resort Cambria Hotel Austin Downtown Cambria Hotel Waco University Riverfront Cambria Hotel Nashville Midtown Cambria expects an even better year ahead with a strong pipeline and drumbeat of on-strategy hotels opening in the coming year. The brand offers: Hudson, NY (12534) Today Sun and clouds mixed. High 46F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 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. 3D Art Films at Images Cinema in Conjunction with 'Anselm' WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. Images Cinema will present the new 3D documentary "ANSELM," about German artist Anselm Keifer, Friday, February 23 through Thursday, February 29. As a last hurrah for 3D cinema, Images will also present in limited engagement a handful of other notable 3D films by auteur film directors Wim Wenders, Ridley Scott, Ang Lee, and Alfonso Cuaron from 2011 to 2013. Full details can be found at https://www.imagescinema.org/pandoras-children-auteurist-3d Images Cinema is located at 50 Spring Street Williamstown. According to a press release: James Camerons "AVATAR" heralded a revival of 3D films that lasted about five years, during which auteurist filmmakers pushed the limits of 3D, moving beyond the 20th Century B-movie, to treating the screen like a proscenium and adding true depth. This renaissance included documentaries, science fiction thrillers, and dramas alike, all pushing the art of cinema forward. One iconoclastic auteur continues to carry the torch for the promise of 3D beyond CGI spectacle: Wim Wenders. In tribute to him and his vision, we are centering our series around our presentation of his new film "ANSELM," and opening the series with a retrospective look at his landmark 3D feature documentary "PINA." Because so few art films are presented in 3D these days, we are retiring the technology after this series. PINA (2011) Friday, February 23 at 4:45pm Saturday, February 24 at 6:45pm Sunday, February 25 at 2:15pm "You don't have to know the first thing about modern dance to be transported to an alternate state of consciousness by Pina." Salon In his exhilarating new film, German master Wim Wenders ("Wings of Desire", "The Buena Vista Social Club") shoots in 3D to capture the brilliantly inventive dance world of legendary choreographer Pina Bausch. Wenders had conceived with Bausch a dance film like none seen before, one which would take the fullest advantage yet of new 3D technology to put the viewer deep inside Bauschs playful, thrillingly unpredictable pieces. After her untimely death in 2009, Wenders continued with the project, turning it into the most exciting tribute he could imagine. Sensual and visually stunning, PINA uses 3D to remarkable effect, taking the audience into Bauschs work in her imaginative sets (a gliding monorail, a bare stage covered with chairs, a towering man-made waterfall) and powerfully rendering the beauty and sheer physicality of the dances and dancers of her Tanztheater Wuppertal ensemble. PROMETHEUS (2012) Friday, February 23 at 9pm Saturday, February 24 at 9pm "Prometheus is a captivating experience, meant to be savored on the big screen. Ridley Scott's reputation as a master craftsman is well deserved and he offers up a big, impressive, eye-opening production." Leonard Maltin Filmmaker Ridley Scott returns to the genre he helped define, creating an original science fiction epic set in the most dangerous corners of the universe. The film takes a team of scientists and explorers on a thrilling journey that will test their physical and mental limits and strand them on a distant world, where they will discover the answers to our most profound questions and to life's ultimate mystery. LIFE OF PI (2012) Friday, March 1 at 4:15pm Saturday, March 2 at 1:45pm "Pi is a giant leap forward, outward and upward in expanding the resources of the evolving medium of movies. Magical realism was rarely so magical and never before so real." Time Based on the best-selling novel by Yann Martel, is a magical adventure story centering on Pi Patel, the precocious son of a zookeeper. Dwellers in Pondicherry, India, the family decides to move to Canada, hitching a ride on a huge freighter. After a shipwreck, Pi is found adrift in the Pacific Ocean on a 26-foot lifeboat with a zebra, a hyena, an orangutan and a 450-pound Bengal tiger named Richard Parker, all fighting for survival. GRAVITY (2013) Friday, March 1 at 9:30pm Saturday, March 2 at 9:30pm Sunday, March 3 at 2:30pm "At once the most realistic and beautifully choreographed film ever set in space, Gravity is a thrillingly realized survival story spiked with interludes of breath-catching tension and startling surprise." Hollywood Reporter Dr. Ryan Stone, a brilliant medical engineer on her first Shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalsky in command of his last flight before retiring. But on a seemingly routine spacewalk, disaster strikes. The Shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalsky completely alone-tethered to nothing but each other and spiraling out into the blackness of space. The deafening silence tells them they have lost any link to Earth and any chance for rescue. As fear turns to panic, every gulp of air eats away at what little oxygen is left. But the only way home may be to go further out into the terrifying expanse of space. PITTSFIELD, Mass. On Feb. 6, Varian Lefebvre, 30 of North Adams, pleaded guilty to three charges in Berkshire Superior Court. The Defendant pleaded guilty to, and was sentenced on, the following charges: Count Charge Sentence 1 Possession of Ammunition Without a Firearm Identification Card 2 years in the House of Corrections, concurrent with count 3 2 Possession of a Firearm without and Firearm Identification Card 2 years in the House of Corrections, concurrent with count 3 3 Armed Career Felon 3 to 3 years and 1 day in state prison The third count, Armed Career Felon, is a sentencing enhancement stemming from a guilty charge in Berkshire Superior Court on Jan. 9, 2018. In this case, Lefebvre was found guilty of Possession to Distribute a Class A Substance. The Defendant is currently serving a federal sentence of four to seven years in connection with an unrelated case. He is serving the sentence in a federal facility in Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth requested and was granted permission to bring Lefebvre back to Berkshire County to face justice on the above charges. According to a report, Varian Lefebvre and co-conspirator Keth Larrabee were suspected of distributing drugs from a North Adams apartment. (Larrabee pleaded guilty to charges related to this incident on May 11, 2023.) Prior to a search of 122 Brayton Hill Terrace, the North Adams Police Department and the State of Vermont's Bennington Police Department conducted a joint investigation into both men. Law enforcement believed that Lefebvre and Larrabee were conducting a drug distribution operation between the northern part of Berkshire County, Massachusetts, and Southern Vermont. On Sept. 25, 2020, the North Adams Police Department arrived at 122 Brayton Hill Terrace, North Adams to execute a search warrant. Based on an active investigation into the residence, law enforcement had probable cause that an illegal firearm belonging to Lefebvre, a known gang member, was inside the house. When North Adams police officers knocked on the door, Lefebvre refused to open it and closed window blinds so law enforcement could not see inside. Police officers entered the residence and placed Lefebvre into custody. The Defendant was the only individual in the house at the time of the search. Among the items law enforcement recovered, a shotgun and ammunition were found in Lefebvre's bedroom. Assistant District Attorney Rachael Eramo represented the Commonwealth. Director of Victim Witness Advocates Jane Kibby-Peirce served on behalf of the Berkshire District Attorney's Office. Lead law enforcement agencies include the North Adams Police Department, and Massachusetts State Police's Forensic Services Division. Update: North Adams Liquor Store to Refund Gift Cards after Closure NORTH ADAMS, Mass. -- Steeple City Liquors announced via social media on Tuesday how customers holding gift cards can obtain refunds. Last week, the store, also known as V&V, closed when the downtown plaza it occupies was sold. Many holders of gift cards took to Facebook to ask how they could be compensated for the now unusable cards. According to the store's Tuesday Facebook post, gift card holders will need to send an email a photo of the card and the name and address where they want the refund sent to Steeple City's corporate office at giftcards@firsthartford.com. "We truly appreciate the patience and understanding of everyone involved," the store's post read. "We have been working hard on the end that we hold. Please reach out if you have any questions! Again, thank you so much for everything since the closing of the store. The kind words from customers has been truly amazing!" The post indicated it could take up to 30 days to receive a refund. Epson, a global leader in professional printing, has announced its collaboration with ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase (AFDS) to raise awareness on sustainable fashion through innovative technology. Epson SureColor SC-F10030 As part of the collaboration, Epson partnered with seven local designers from Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam to create a unique fashion collection with a sustainability theme that ties in with the cultural roots of their respective countries. The full Sustainability in Asia collection will be unveiled during Epsons LFP Innovation Day in Bangkok on March 21, 2024. Leading up to the main event, the designs will be showcased at their respective countrys Epson Solution Centers across the region. The designers are leveraging Epsons line of dye sublimation printers including SureColor SC-F6430, SureColor SC-F9430H and SureColor SC-F10030 to produce bright and sharp colour apparel pieces for these unique collections. Dave Ocampo, Filipino designer representing the Philippines at the ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase, explains the design he made using Epsons dye sublimation printer. Filipino designer Dave Ocampo represents the Philippines at this years AFDS. Ocampo focuses on creating ready-to-wear styles that are both wearable and classic, while also prioritizing sustainable practices by sourcing fabrics locally and supporting local communities. His designs aim to make fashion accessible to the public, emphasizing sleek and timeless silhouettes. The collection aims to showcase the beauty of the Philippines through colors, symbols, and patterns, shared Ocampo. The design highlights Philippines' very own colorful festivals, cultural symbols that are deeply rooted in its history, and patterns that are uniquely tied to its heritage and identity. Partnering with Epson for digital textile printing allows us to bring the details and vibrant colors to life. Sublimation transfer is an easy printing method in which the design is first printed on a dye sublimation transfer media. Using only a combination of heat and pressure, the design on this media will then be transferred directly onto the fabric. With this method, the ink will be bonded to the fabric, resulting in permanent, vibrant prints that are fade resistant. Unlike conventional printing which requires a substantial amount of water for fabric preparation, dyeing and rinsing, digital textile printing that uses dye sublimation is a more environmentally conscious approach for apparel companies as it produces less waste. It also minimizes over-production as designers can produce printed fabric as required. This ensures fashion designers will be able to maintain a sustainable textile printing business while significantly reducing the cost as well as environmental impact. Additionally, going digital enables designers to have full creative freedom to print anything imaginable and on-demand. The technology allows them to create and produce complex designs, giving designers endless variations and options that suit their respective tastes. "We are thrilled to collaborate with AFDS to raise awareness on sustainable digital textile printing through a creative showcase on apparels with these established and aspiring ASEAN designers, said Masako Kusama, President of Epson Philippines Corporation. Guided by our brand message, Engineered for Good, Epson is continuously exploring different ways to co-create sustainability technology solutions that truly enrich our communities and address issues surrounding the environment. It is part of our long-term mission to improve the sustainability standards across different industries including the textile industry. The team of designers with AFDS are excited to participate in this unique partnership with Epson, aligning with their shared vision for the future of fashion and technology. The collaborative designs crafted for this venture embody a vibrant fusion of fun, youthfulness, fashion-forward sensibilities, and practical wearability, added Hayden Ng, Premier Founder and Singapore Fashion Ambassador of the ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase. Each of the seven designers has ingeniously translated their unique narratives, rooted in the cultural tapestry of their respective countries, and has artfully woven in their perspectives on sustainability and zero wastage in the production of these styles. 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 full-time professional Austin Powers impersonator has said he is still hoping for a fourth installment of the franchise and has no plans to hang up his sideburns any time soon. There have been no new films in the franchise for 22 years. Richard Halpern, 61, from New York but now living in Los Angeles, began doing impressions on a radio show in the 1980s and decided to add Mike Myers character to his arsenal after seeing the first part of the Austin Powers trilogy. He tracked down the designer who made Austin Powers well-known teeth and got custom-made outfits even buying stick-on yak hair sideburns to make the character seem as realistic as possible. In 1999, Richard appeared on stage at a music festival in costume and was mistaken for Myers in a television news report. After that, business started rolling in and to this day he performs at trade shows and parties. He has made the decision to adapt his routine to fit modern times, asserting he never crosses the line, and is still hoping that a new Austin Powers movie will be released. Richard was once mistaken for Mike Myres (Collect/PA Real Life) (PA) Richard, who has never been to the UK, plans to impersonate the character as long as he and Canadian actor comedian Myers are still around and said suggestions of an Austin Powers 4 are very interesting. In recent years Myers has said he would be open to making a fourth Austin Powers film, saying on the Tonight Show in 2023: I would love to do it, of course, its fun. Richard said: Id love for them to make a new movie, and Im the same age as Mike Myers so Ill be doing it for as long as hes still around and Im still around Id love to do it worldwide. It would be very interesting to see what the story would be and Ive heard that it would be more focused on Dr Evil. He told PA: I had the same person, Gary Archer, who made the teeth for the movie make me a pair and found the exact same set of glasses from the film. I had a custom-made shirt with the big white puffy collar and I bought boots and had to have the exact same number of buttons on the blue velvet suit. There is no make-up theres just teeth, sideburns, glasses. I have sideburns that I stick on, theyre made of yak hair, and I have the purple-looking suit too. I do have the Union jack underwear but I dont think people would want to see me in them! In 1983, Richard began doing vocal impressions on his local radio station KIIS-FM. His favourite character was Tootsie, from the 1983 comedy film of the same name, starring Dustin Hoffman and Sydney Pollack. Richard began doing impressions of Tootsie (PA) Richard began impersonating Austin Powers after the the release of the first movie, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. When I first saw the film at a preview screening I said that it would make a really, really cool Halloween costume, and my friend said the movie was going to be dead and gone by Halloween, he said. All I thought about was, Thats a cool look and character. So I think it kind of took hold of me and I adapted to that world. Richard soon developed his go-to quotes from the movie to include in his routine. He explained: Most of the presentation is improv because you cant do an entire event based on some dialogue of a movie, you have to be able to walk and talk. I have some little lines in my arsenal, like groovy, that I use over and over and I always think of more cheesy pick-up lines. In 2000, Richard became an Austin Powers impersonator and actor full-time. His career as a tribute artist soon became successful. He said: People were saying I should get in touch with the movie studio because there was going to be this big push to promote the second movie. And I did, and I appeared at Dodger Stadium at an event called the Wango Tango which is now iHeart Music Festival. Nancy Sinatra was there and I came on stage and did an impression and on the Monday morning I was on the morning news and they said Mike Myers showed up but it was actually me! Richard before he puts on the Austin outfit (PA) Richard began getting hired for events such as trade shows, and turns up in his 2003 Mini Cooper similar to the one Austin Powers father drove in the movie. After doing the routine for more than 20 years, Richard, who shares his impressions on Instagram under the handle @austinpowersimpersonator, has changed some of his material to fit modern times. He said: Even though some of the material can be a bit misogynistic and potentially insulting to women, I never cross that line I go almost up to that line, but never cross it. I am very protective of the women I work with if theyre hired as go-go girls theres tendencies for these women to be harassed and Im always jumping to their aid, I have a great respect for women and the women I work with. Im always reinventing the situations and the dialogue, in addition to the 60s dialogue and vernacular. What makes the character special is that even though he can be perceived as sexist in some of what he says, he actually is just the opposite and he learns from his journey from 1967 to 1997 that there have been changes in the culture. He is able to learn the difference and respect the difference between the attitudes of his time in the 1960s to the modern times in the 1990s. 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 }} Jimmy Kimmel has spoken out after George Santos filed a lawsuit accusing him of deceiving the scandal-plagued former lawmaker when he paid him to make Cameo videos. On his late-night show on Tuesday night, the host poked fun at Mr Santos lawsuit which claims he believed video requests about a dog named Adolf and a man eating six pounds of loose ground beef were real messages and that he was duped. Hes being represented by the prestigious law firm of Pot, Kettle, and Black, Mr Kimmel quipped of the man who was ousted from Congress in shame after a series of lies and alleged fraud came to light. The former New York lawmaker sued Mr Kimmel as well as ABC and Disney for copyright infringement, fraudulent inducement, breach of contract and unjust enrichment in federal court on Saturday. It came after Mr Kimmel revealed he had sent Mr Santos 14 ridiculous requests on Cameo, the site where celebrities offer short greetings for a fee, to see if the former congressman would fall for them. It turned out that Mr Santos did just that. The disgraced former congressman indeed accepted Mr Kimmels requests for several Cameo videos, which the late-night host then broadcast on Jimmy Kimmel Live in December in a mocking segment titled: Will Santos Say It? But now Mr Santos has alleged Mr Kimmel falsely represented himself in the requests in order to induce him to create personalised videos capitalizing on and ridiculing his gregarious personality, the lawsuit alleges. Mr Santos also accused Mr Kimmel of exploiting the Cameo Videos on national television. Cameo offers two types of licenses personal and business and the suit claims that neither of these licenses permits the Users to broadcast the videos on national television. The videos made for Mr Kimmel were allegedly subject to the personal use license restriction. On his Tuesday night show, Mr Kimmel responded to Mr Santos lawsuit, describing it as preposterous. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Jimmy Kimmel has broken his silence after George Santos filed a lawsuit against him (Jimmy Kimmel Live) We had a three-day weekend, Mr Kimmel said, opening the show. It was an eventful weekend for me. Did anyone else get sued by George Santos this weekend? I am currently embroiled in what may be the most preposterous lawsuit of all time. George Santos, a man Republicans kicked out of Congress for being a fraud, is suing me for fraud. Mr Kimmel appeared to make light of the situation on Tuesday night, explaining that Mr Santos filed the lawsuit because we did a nice thing, because we supported him by ordering his Cameo videos. After he was removed from the House, George signed on with Cameo to make some money, Mr Kimmel said. You know the website where you can get a celebrity to make a video. So we wrote some absolutely ridiculous messages for him to read. We gave them a credit card number and sure enough he recorded the messages and sent them back to us. And now hes suing. He says we deceived him under the guise of fandom soliciting personalised videos only to then broadcast these on national television. And if theres one thing George Santos will not stand for its using a fake name under false pretenses, Mr Kimmel joked. George Santos launched his Cameo account in December fater he was expelled from Congress (Cameo) The late-night host also cast doubt on the former congressmans claims that he had been deceived by his requests. And by the way, the idea that he believed these messages, which get posted on the Cameo site anyway, were from real fans? One of them was about a guy named Gary who ate six pounds of loose ground beef in under 30 minutes. Another was a message congratulating my mom Brenda on the successful cloning of her beloved schnauzer Adolf, Mr Kimmel said. Mr Kimmel ended the segment by calling Mr Santos lawsuit so good, adding: This is like getting sued for paternity by Nick Cannon. Mr Santos launched his Cameo account in December after he was expelled from Congress for allegedly deceiving his donors, knowingly filing false campaign finance statements, and using his campaign funds to pay for personal expenses, including rent, trips, luxury items, Botox and a subscription to the adult content site OnlyFans. Since then, he has bragged about making a fortune from his Cameo videos, previously revealing that he had surpassed his congressional salary of $174,000 in his first 48 hours on the platform after charging up to $400 per video. Now, he is seeking at least $750,000 in damages from Mr Kimmel, ABC and Disney. 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 }} True Detective: Night Country aired its season finale on Sunday (18 February) after a critically acclaimed run of six episodes. *Warning: Spoilers follow for Part Six, the True Detective: Night Country season finale.* The final episode reveals who killed Annie K (Nivi Pedersen), but does not offer a concrete explanation as to how her severed tongue came to be found on the floor of the Tsalal Arctic Research Station several years after her death. What happened to Annie Ks tongue? We learned early on in True Detective: Night Country about the unsolved murder of Annie K, an indigenous woman whose body was found on the outskirts of Ennis (a fictional town set in Alaska) with 32 star-shaped stab wounds from an unidentified weapon. Detective Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) also tells Peter Prior (Finn Bennett) that Annies body was found without her tongue. The tongue only turns up when Danvers finds it on the floor of the Tsalal lab six years later, providing a clue to the connection between the missing scientists and the murder of Annie K. Nivi Pedersen as Annie K in True Detective: Night Country (Michele K Short/HBO) Who cut out the tongue? While were never explicitly told who cut out Annie Ks tongue, we do find out in episode five that corrupt cop Hank Prior (John Hawkes) was responsible for moving Annies body, and its implied that he cut out her tongue in order to send a message to other mine protestors to remain quiet. In an interview with GQ, Hawkes confirmed that he believes Hank was responsible for cutting out Annies tongue, and that he was motivated by greed. Hank was a cop who was really doing things his own way, which would make sense in a small town, he said. You treat this person this way, this person that way. Not everyones equal in his eyes, exactly. And so he was probably turning a blind eye towards certain behaviors. Certainly [mine owner] Kate McKittrick would know about that. So already shes got a little something on him. What motivates him to carry out the task of cutting out Annies tongue, it wasnt something he took pride in but needed to be done to send the message, Hawkes continued. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free I think the quid pro quo was, youll become chief of police if you do this for me. Then once hes done it and he doesnt become chief of police, shes got that on him too now. Obviously, much worse than just turning a blind eye toward a DUI or something like that. I think its motivated by his career aspirations, ultimately, and hopefully that his son might view him in a more favorable light as someone whos gotten to the top of his profession, but it never happens. John Hawkes as Hank Prior in True Detective: Night Country (HBO) How did the tongue end up in the lab? In the final episode, Bee (Lxeis Diane Benson) tells Danvers and Navarro (Kali Reis) that a group of local women, known on set as the Justice Ladies, rounded up the Tsalal scientists and sent them out naked into the ice fields to die as an act of retribution for the murder of Annie K. However, when Navarro asks Bee about the tongue, she claims to know nothing about it. And while Hank may have been the last person to see Annies tongue, it wouldnt make any sense for him to place it at the scene of another crime. Night Country creator Issa Lopez said the tongues reappearance was left purposefully ambiguous. Thats one that Im not going to be telling you because my goal was to give you the possibility of choosing your answers here, Lopez told Business Insider. There are many ways that tongue could have ended up there. Some of them are natural and some of them are not. Many viewers believe that the only explanation for the tongue reappearing in the lab is a supernatural one. The spirit of Annie K perhaps placed the (remarkably well-preserved) tongue in the lab in order to help Danvers and Navarro find the link between the vanished scientists and her murder. Given that Annies tongue was cut out to send a message, its also arguable that its reappearance sends a message too: That no matter how often the powers that be try to silence the oppressed, their voices will eventually be heard. What happens to Navarro at the end of True Detective: Night Country? True Detective: Night Country is available to watch now on Sky and NOW 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 24-year-old man reportedly succumbed to his injuries in a state bordering the Indian capital on Wednesday as police fired tear gas on protesting farmers as they resumed their march to Delhi after talks with the government failed. Shubh Karan Singh, the young farmer, was taken to the hospital where he died of a head injury received at the Khanauri border, according to the Hindustan Times. He was already dead when he was brought to hospital at around 3 pm. He suffered bullet injuries in his head, Harnam Singh, medical superintendent at the Government Medical College and Rajendra Hospital in Patiala, told The Quint. However, the Haryana police on their X/Twitter handle refuted the news of the death and said: According to the information received so far, no farmer has died today. This is just a rumour. There is information about two policemen and one protestor being injured at Data Singh-Khanori border who is undergoing treatment. Fleeing the stinging gas and clouds of smoke, the farmers, some wearing medical masks, ran into the fields surrounding their gathering point on a highway about 200km north of New Delhi. Authorities have fortified the capital, barricading the highways into New Delhi with cement blocks, metal containers, barbed wire and iron spikes to prevent the farmers from entering. The protesters are, however, arriving with bulldozers and excavators to try and push through. Jagjit Singh Dallewal, one of the farmers leading the march, said they did not want any violence, but condemned the government over the massive security measures. It is our request that we want to go to Delhi in a peaceful manner. The government should remove the barricades, he said. Sukhpal Singh Khaira, chair of the All India Kissan Congress, condoled the death of the protester and said: My heartfelt condolences to the family of deceased farmer Shubkaran son of Charanjit Singh of V. Ballo District Bathinda who was shot by Haryana police today at Khannauri border during #FarmerProtest2024. This is matter of grave concern and at the same time shame for @BhagwantMann for being a mute spectator to blatant intrusion by Haryana police into Punjab territory injuring over 200 farmers and killing this youth-Khaira @INCIndia @INCPunjab. The visuals from Shambhu border near Punjab and Haryana showed police lining up in riot gear as the farmers, gathered amid morning fog, waved colourful flags emblazoned with the symbols of their unions, with loudspeakers urging them to fight for their rights. A farmer equipped to face police tear gas poses for a photo as Indian farmers who have been protesting for a week to demand guaranteed crop prices wait to march to the capital near Shambhu border that divides northern Punjab and Haryana states, some 200km from New Delhi, India, Wednesday, 21 February 2024 (AP) Television images showed some farmers wearing gas masks and other safety gear to protect themselves from the police assault. The protests come at a crucial time for India, where national elections are due in the coming months and prime minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party is widely expected to secure a third successive term in office. Authorities are set on putting a lid on it as they fear it will renew a movement from over two years ago when tens of thousands of farmers camped out on the outskirts of the city for over a year. In a bid to contain the outrage, agriculture minister Arjun Munda urged the farmers to resolve their grievances through the talks. A man walks through tear gas at the site of the protest, as farmers march towards New Delhi to press for better crop prices promised to them in 2021, at Shambhu barrier, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states, India, 21 February 2024 (Reuters) "After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues" such as guaranteed prices for the farmers crops, he posted on social network X, as the march resumed. "I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace." The offer comes after farmers on Monday rejected the governments previous proposal for five-year contracts and guaranteed support prices for produce such as corn, cotton and pulses. The protest organisers say the farmers are seeking a new legislation that would guarantee minimum prices for 23 crops. The government protects agricultural producers against sharp falls in farm prices by setting a minimum purchase price for certain essential crops, a system that was introduced in the 1960s to help shore up food reserves and prevent shortages. Farmers, who are marching towards New Delhi to press for better crop prices promised to them in 2021, run for cover amidst tear gas fired by police to disperse them at Shambhu barrier, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states, India, 21 February 2024 (Reuters) The system can apply up to 23 crops, but the government usually offers the minimum price only for rice and wheat. The farmers say guaranteed minimum support price for all 23 crops would stabilise their income. They are also pressing the government to follow through on promises to waive loans and withdraw legal cases brought against them during the earlier 2021 protests. About 10,000 people had gathered on Wednesday, along with 1,200 tractors and wagons at Shambhu on the state border, police in Haryana posted on X, warning against the risk of stone-throwing as they were armed with sticks and stones. Security was also stepped up at entry points to New Delhi, with police in riot gear manning barricades topped with barbed wire in some places, slowing traffic entering the city of more than 20 million and causing snarls. Late on Tuesday, the Haryana polices chief ordered the immediate seizure of the heavy equipment brought by the farmers, to keep protesters from using it to destroy barricades. Police also asked owners of such equipment not to lend or rent it to protesters, as its use to harm security forces would be a criminal offence. Additional reporting by agencies 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 delegation has landed in London to iron out the differences in the long-delayed and ambitious free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the UK. The visit assumes significance in terms of timing as elections are expected to be announced in India in less than a month, which will trigger the Model Code of Conduct, restricting the ability of Indian prime minister Narendra Modis ability to announce the deal. The visit comes almost a month after a delegation from the UK arrived in New Delhi to discuss the remaining aspects of the 26-chapter agreement. The negotiation began in 2022 on the deal that aims to double trade between the two countries to 86bn by 2030. India hopes to increase exports of leather, jewellery, textiles, and food products, with post-study work visas and immigration for Indians to the UK big areas of priority. Britain, meanwhile, aims to double its total exports to India, up to as much as 28bn a year by 2035, thereby increasing wages across the UK by up to 3bn. The UK also wants an agreement that includes cutting tariffs on exports of British-made cars and Scotch whisky. The fourteenth round of negotiation, which began on 10 January, involves discussion on matters related to goods, services and investment. Officials involved in the discussion claimed that the majority of issues in the proposed FTA were either finalised or were at an advanced stage of discussion. "The majority of the chapters are either closed or at an advanced stage of negotiation. Discussions are being held at the higher level as well as at the team level to iron out differences, said L Satya Srinivas, additional secretary in the Department of Commerce, earlier in January. The India-UK FTA talks have hit several roadblocks and the ambitious pact now stands delayed by over a year from its previous deadline. The deal is reportedly being held up by a variety of issues, including a disagreement over the number of visas for Indians to work in the UK and differences over the level of access British car manufacturers should be given to Indias market. Then interior minister Suella Braverman sparked a row in 2022 with comments about the possible impact of Indian migrants in trade talks, citing concern both with any open borders migration policy with India and those who overstay visas. A spokesperson for prime minister Rishi Sunak later said the UK had no plans to change its approach to reducing net migration in order to help secure a free trade deal with India. However, Indias High Commissioner to Britain Vikram Doriaswamy said that the notion India wanted more visas had been in the British press but not in Indian media. We never said that the visas are part of our ask, he told Times radio, adding that India instead sought simpler ways for companies to move UK and Indian nationals between the countries. We are not asking for migrants to be able to come here. For India, a deal with the UK would be its first with a developed country after it signed an interim trade pact with Australia in December 2022. It comes at a crucial time for Mr Modi, who is looking to solidify Indias business-friendly image in the run-up to national elections. Britain, on the other hand, has prioritised a deal with India as part of its Indo-Pacific foreign policy tilt aimed at enhancing ties with the regions fast-growing economies. The British Department for Business and Trade earlier said "the UK and India continue to work towards an ambitious trade deal that works for both countries. We have always been clear we will only sign a deal that is fair, balanced and ultimately in the best interests of the British people and the economy". 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 }} Pakistans two most powerful political parties have finalised a deal to form a coalition government, weeks after they were both beaten in a general election by independent candidates backed by Imran Khans opposition party. The agreement between the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will result in a government similar in make-up to the one that ousted Mr Khan as prime minister in 2022, with Shehbaz Sharif reinstalled as prime minister. PML-N won 79 seats in the 8 February election and PPP took 54, each falling well short of the 133 needed for an outright majority and trailing the 92 seats won by independents backed by Mr Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. PTI has accused the two legacy parties, which were seen as having the support of the powerful military establishment, of stealing Mr Khans mandate and of taking part in widespread election rigging in their favour. PPP chair Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announced during a joint press conference held at midnight at Zardari House that the PMLN and PPP collectively possessed enough seats to establish a federal government. The Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz now have complete numbers, and we are in the position to form the next government, Mr Bhutto Zardari said alongside top leaders from both the parties. PMLN president Mr Sharif has been put forward as the nominee for the position of prime minister, Pakistani newspaper Dawn reported. PPPs Asif Ali Zardari is set to become the president following a vote by MPs in the coming weeks. The coalitions aim is to address the countrys economic crisis, Mr Bhutto Zardari said. Mr Sharif pledged collective action to tackle economic and other challenges. During the press conference on Tuesday, Mr Sharif claimed that the authorities had invited PTI to establish a government but that the party could not secure the necessary seats to do so. PTI had earlier ruled out the idea of forming a coalition with any of the other major parties after the election. Mr Sharif said PMLN and its allied parties would have been prepared to sit on the opposition benches if PTI had managed to form its government. PTI, meanwhile, continued to contest the results of an election marred by nationwide protests, rigging allegations and internet restrictions. Social networking site X, previously known as Twitter, became available to users in Pakistan only late on Tuesday night after being inaccessible since Saturday. The government has yet to comment on the cause of the disruption. Asked by The Independent about the formation of the new government, Taimur Khan Jhagra, PTIs former finance minister in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, said during a press briefing that given what PDM-1 [the Pakistan Democratic Movement] achieved, I think people shouldnt keep their hopes high. PDM was a coalition of at least 11 political parties in Pakistan that came together in order to oust the then prime minister Mr Khan. The current coalition is being called PDM 2.0. Mr Jhagra continued: They know they have not just eroded but destroyed their legitimacy. The sort of reform that is required in terms of the next IMF program, I am sure they are going to get nightmares [about] what is going to happen to their vote bank if they try and do that. He emphasised that the rest of the country is getting nightmares about Ishaq Dar being the finance minister again. So we are still in for interesting times. Mr Dar has served four terms as finance minister of Pakistan since the 1990s, three of them in Sharif administrations. Mr Jhagra described this months vote as the most rigged election in the history of Pakistan. He said that the polls had been amateurishly rigged. Results were falsified in nine constituencies through forgery in Peshawar alone, he stated. He presented Form 45 paperwork initial counts from individual polling stations from constituencies whose results he claimed had been falsified. PTI also demanded a judicial commission to look at rigging in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It comes after a high-ranking official in Pakistan admitted tampering with the countrys elections after the vote ended inconclusively amid accusations of fraud. Liaqat Ali Chattha, the commissioner of Rawalpindi city in Punjab, announced on Saturday that he would surrender to the police and resign from his role. Pakistans election commission dismissed Mr Chatthas claims of widespread rigging, but stated in a press release that it would investigate the matter. The electoral authority said it had given no directives to Mr Chattha regarding a change in the election results. Close Floodwaters rush through Montecito, California on Monday afternoon Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A brutal storm that battered California is winding down as of Wednesday morning, with heavy rain beginning to subside. Much of California was on flood watch on Monday and Tuesday as some regions approach ten inches of total rainfall while bracing for floods and landslides. Road blockages, landslides and toppled trees have already been reported in and around Los Angeles. A massive tree also crashed in a Los Angeles neighbourhood on Monday, damaging parked vehicles and downing power lines. Officials warned Californians to avoid road travel and prepare for power outages, mud or rock slides and coastal flooding. Portions of the US-101 and Pacific Coast Highway were blocked on Monday as rainfall intensified and floodwaters rushed onto the major roadway. Meanwhile, Santa Barbara County officials issued evacuation warnings for some waterfront neighbourhoods, which could persist through Wednesday. Many parts of California are already saturated from the heavy rain after a storm earlier this month caused hundreds of landslides so far. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} New satellite images show the scale of a massive oil slick spilling from a capsized vessel near Trinidad and Tobago, with oil continuing to flow to other regions across the Caribbean Sea. Workers are struggling to contain the leak from the barge that sank about 500 feet off Tobago island on 7 February, carrying as much as 35,000 barrels of fuel. Oil leaking from the vessel has turned the beaches of the island black during the peak tourist season around Carnival, prompting what the prime minister of the twin-island nation called a national emergency. During the cleanup operation a black plastic bag containing more than a kilogram of cocaine estimated to have a street value of around $75,000 was found washed up on a beach near the grounded tanker, the authorities said on Monday. Police are not linking the discovery to the oil spill at this stage. Before and after satellite images from the European Space Agency (ESA) show a long and thick black slick of oil flowing across the Caribbean, continuously expanding as it spreads. The second image captured by the satellite on 14 February shows the oil spill travelled over 160km westwards, the ESA said. Satellite image from European Space Agency shows black slick of oil visible from space (European Space Agency) Photo on the left shows Tobagos shore before oil spill on 7 February, with the other two photos showing the black slick visible on 7 and 14 February (European Space Agency) Authorities are still unsure of the origin of the ship, the kind of oil leaking from the vessel or how much of it remains. The Trinidad and Tobago government is urging the barges owner to step forward and take responsibility for the disaster. The oil last week reached Grenadas waters and poses a potential threat to neighbouring Venezuela. Venezuelas foreign affairs ministry said that the country was monitoring the spill and has initiated meetings with Trinidads government to coordinate action. The vessel a barge being pulled by a tugboat was found without any information about its origins or owner on board. It is believed to have been headed for Guyana when it ran aground. Environmental officials said the spill has damaged a reef and several popular beaches, a blow for both the islands environment and its tourism industry during the Carnival season. Oil spills in the ocean typically have much wider impacts than spills on land and can be disastrous for marine life and ecosystems. Coated in oil, animals can be killed by poisoning or suffocation. Oil and oceans dont mix, and this disastrous oil spill from an overturned vessel off Trinidad and Tobago is the latest destructive example, said Alexcia Best, campaign associate for ocean conservancy group Oceana. Oil spills have dangerous impacts on oceans, fisheries, people, and coastal economies that last for years. 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 }} Zendaya and Timothee Chalamet have taken twinning to the next level. The longtime friends pulled off the ultimate red carpet moment while promoting Dune: Part Two in South Korea. Zendaya, 27, and Chalamet 28, wore matching jumpsuits by Seoul-based designer Juun J to a Q&A event held on 21 February. The Euphoria star donned a light peach-coloured version of the belted jumpsuit, while the Wonka actor opted for a light grey jumpsuit. Zendaya styled her jumpsuit zipped halfway down with her shoulder exposed, pairing the look with Christian Louboutin Pigalle pumps. Meanwhile, Chalamet accessorised his ensemble with a pair of silver boots and silver chain necklaces. During the sit-down press event, Chalamet spoke about their decision to wear matching jumpsuits. The Little Women actor explained that the idea was none other than Law Roachs - Zendayas longtime personal stylist - and emphasised the importance of elevating local designers. I think its wonderful to support the designers here, he said, per Vogue Korea on Instagram. This was Laws beautiful idea and creation. But thank you to Juun J for this opportunity to wear his beautiful clothes. Zendaya and Timothee Chalamet attend press conference for Dune: Part Two on 21 February 2024 in Seoul, South Korea (Getty Images) Meanwhile, Roach described the pair as a dynamic duo in a post to his Instagram Story. It didnt take long for fans to praise Zendaya and Chalamet for the matching press tour fashion moment. I love that they did this sooo much, said one user on X, formerly Twitter. Timothee called ahead this time and asked her what shes wearing, another fan joked. Its giving fraternal twins, said a third user, while someone else wrote: Theyre wearing the same thing and she still ate him up. The Emmy-winning actor has turned heads with her incredible fashion during the Dune: Part Two press tour. Last week, Zendaya arrived at the sci-fi films London premiere wearing a robot-style outfit from the Thierry Mugler archives. The silver bodysuit, from Muglers Fall-Winter 1995 couture collection, was decked out with chromatic sleeves covering her from neck to hands. The metallic ensemble also featured sheer cut-outs over plastic across her midriff and legs. Just one day prior, she wore a dark purple three-piece suit set from Roksanda in London, pairing the look with jewellery from Bulgari and Nina Ricci. Zendaya also stepped out for the films premiere in Paris wearing a two-piece Louis Vuitton ensemble, which featured a gold rose-embroidered crop top and billowing skirt. Dune: Part Two directed by Denis Villeneuve hits theatres in the US on 1 March. 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 }} Never mind the sweet notes of strawberry syrup or the rich aroma of fresh hazelnut, the new Starbucks flavour infuses a salty dinner delicacy into your morning brew. In honour of the Chinese New Year, the coffee hub launched a pork-flavoured latte in China. Available on 10 February, this hot offering is translated as Abundant Year Savory Latte, or listed as its English moniker, Lucky Savory Latte. The beverage combines a shot of espresso with Dongpo pork sauce, steamed milk, and finished with a drizzle of the sauce over the foam. A slice of the braised pork tops the savory special, according to pictures thatve surfaced online. While the chains intention behind the latte is to integrate traditional New Year customs, customers arent in agreement about whether they enjoyed the $9.50 (68 Chinese yuan) drink. Even Starbucks is describing the menu option as having an interesting taste. Per a Business Insider report, many users on Xiaohongshu, an Instagram-like platform used in China, have taken to the app to express their opinions. One individual thought it tasted disgusting, like a mixture of sweetener and fermented bean curd. The only part of the beverage they liked was the slice of pork. On the other hand, a few people admitted they were pleasantly shocked by the taste, finding the savory finish quite satisfying. Another thought the latte had an intriguing sweet and salty flavour and they liked the smell of meat with coffee. There are certain things in this world that should never be invented. And this is one of them, one X, formerly known as Twitter, user commented underneath the announcement. A second added: Good grief no! Next will be a prawn cocktail expresso, another quipped. One desperate Starbucks fan begged the UK chain to add a meaty option too. Mmmmmmm awww do a BACON ONE, they wrote. Its not unusual for the coffee conglomerate to think outside the box when it comes to their drink offerings. Already, Starbucks has invented an olive oil coffee, Oleato, Osatsu Butter Frappuccino, and a Benitama Custard Apple Pie drink in Japan. 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 }} Kim Kardashian has sparked criticism for selling her dirty Birkin bag for nearly $70,000. The 43-year-old reality stars bag was recently put up for sale on her familys retail site, Kardashian Kloset. According to its description on the website, the grey handbag is a Birkin 30. The rare Hermes bag is from Kardashians coveted collection and comes with gold hardware and double handles. The alligator Birkin bag also comes with a twist lock and lock and key closure. The item description noted that the bag is in good condition but it has some discolouration on handles and underside bottom corners. Theres also some minor scratching on the metal of the bag. On Kardashian Kloset, the Skims founders bag is up for sale for $69,995, in addition to a $14.95 domestic shipping rate. The listing was reposted on the popular Kardashian-themed Reddit page, KUWTKsnark, where fans have expressed their confusion over the bags appearance. Some criticised the bags high price tag, with many claiming that parts of the bag do not look clean. They also questioned why the product was being put up for sale in the first place. Can be yours for only $70k! one wrote. Seriously, how desperate are they for money? And why does no one find it strange that these billionaires are selling their second-hand clothes? Thats very dirty, another claimed, while a third wrote: The kind of people who have $70k to spend on a bag, wouldnt they just buy a brand new one? If you have $70k to spend on a bag, why would you want second-hand Kardashian bags? Other people focused on the marks on the bag and the discolouration of the handles, with many questioning whether Kardashian had the bag cleaned before selling it. The hardware is all scuffed and dull, the edges are worn and slightly frayed, and its discoloured from makeup/tanner. Just wow...They cant even be bothered to restore it or have it stored properly, one wrote. The nerve to list at that price with all of the discolouration in the handles and wear and tear on the bottom and lower corners, another added. This isnt the first Birkin bag that Kardashian has put up for sale. Earlier this month, she put her Peacock Blue Birkin 30 bag up on Kardashian Kloset, for the price of $49,995. According to the items description, the bag was in good condition with minor discolouration on handles and wear on bottom corners, minor scratching on metal, and minor signs of wear on interior. In January 2023, The Kardashians star also made headlines for selling a number of her personal Balenciaga items at a reduced price, after the brand was embroiled in controversy over two ad campaigns featuring children. At the time, Kardashian had listed more than 30 Balenciaga items, both rare and new with the tags still attached. One pair of black Balenciaga sneakers was also marked down from $850 to $680. Meanwhile, a mocha brown cropped tracksuit was being sold for $1,515, after initially being listed for $1,895, and one rare and new Balenciaga denim jacket with tags had been reduced from $1,195 to $955. In December 2022, Balenciaga was at the centre of a major scandal after the luxury fashion label published two photoshoots - one which featured children posing with teddy bears dressed in bondage gear, and one which showed an image of a Supreme Court opinion on child pornography. The company issued an apology for the campaigns, in which they condemned child abuse, and Kardashian also spoke out by noting that she was reevaluating her relationship with the brand. In January 2024, however, she announced that she was the new brand ambassador for Balenciaga and expressed that her long-standing relationship is built on mutual trust and a commitment to doing whats right. The Independent has contacted a representative for Kardashian for comment. 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 }} A waitress who received a $10,000 (7,915.80) tip on a $32.43 (25.67) bill has been fired from her workplace after she split the generous sum with her co-workers. Linsey Boyd was sacked from the Mason Jar Cafe in Michigan after sharing the money, but the business has said their decision was nothing to do with the tip. The restaurant has since been inundated with dozens of negative reviews as Boyds supporters criticised the cafe for letting her go. I was willing to share a $10,000 tip, but was reciprocated with hate and rumours, Boyd wrote in a since-deleted Facebook post. The alleged problems began with the seemingly positive event, when a middle-aged benefactor, who wanted to remain anonymous, made the generous donation. The mystery man had just attended a friends funeral and wanted to honour his memory and brighten someones day, according to general manager Tim Sweeney, who spoke to the Detroit Free Press. He requested that the tip be split among staff, which worked out to around $1,250 per person for the eight servers. Linsey Boyd says she is now out of work for the first time since she was 15 years old (CBS) But drama ensued following the act of kindness, according to Boyd, who did not go into details on the nature of the problems. Rumours have circulated that disagreements were sparked by employees who did not work on the day and expected to receive a cut of the donation. Drama ensued, and in an attempt to diffuse the situation and resolve any rumors, things became even worse, wrote Boyd as she shared her emotions on Facebook [sic]. She said she then received a phone call on Tuesday to say she had been sacked. Finally... I got the call... I got the call, that I am fired... Now, Im without a job for the first time since I was 15, she said. The call came after she was asked to take a mental health break for a couple of days. The owners of the Mason Jar Cafe said the dismissal had nothing to do with the tip (Google) More people than I can count thought I should have just kept all the money and not shared. The thought hadnt even occurred to me, but hindsight is always 20/20. Here we are a week later, and Im out of a job. I was willing to share a $10,000 tip, but was reciprocated with hate and rumours. Because I was not willing to disclose a name that I heard the rumour through. This amazing act of kindness has brought out some serious ugliness, and I am taking the fall for it all, she wrote. Restaurant owners Able Martinez and Jayme Cousins said they could only share limited information on what led to the dismissal. In a Facebook post they said: A claim has been made about a recent employee of ours. We cannot comment on the nature of her losing her job due to labour laws and to protect the staff involved. However, I will say it had nothing to do with the tip. She did receive the entire tip, she did not pay taxes on it (the business did). Yes, she shared the tip at the request of the man that left it. We do truly care about our staff. Weve had the same crew for five to six years. We have college girls that come home every summer and have been for four years now, we take our staff up north at the end of every summer season, we give donations for college funds for them, we kept them employed through Covid, we do everything in our power not to lose staff. We hope it is clear this was not a decision made lightly or hastily. This article was amended on 27 February 2024. It previously stated that the tip split between eight worked out at $1,600 per person, but that should have read $1,250. 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 }} Russell Crowe has debuted a fresh new look after shaving his facial hair for the first time in five years. In a post shared to X, formerly Twitter, the 59-year-old Gladiator star showed off his clean shaven face with a selfie. The actor prepares #20. First shave since 2019, he captioned the post. Crowe appeared decades younger after shaving for the first time since 2019, as he sported a pair of black rimmed eyeglasses. Many fans complimented the Les Miserables actor on his appearance in the replies, like one person who said: Wow, you look 20 years younger! 20 years younger instantly! another user agreed. Looks good! Its nice to change it up and shave, a third person said. You have a nice face, it was hiding behind all that hair. In his post, the actor suggested he shaved his beard in preparation for a new movie role. In fact, the last time fans witnessed Crowe with a beard-free expression was in 2012, while he was promoting Les Miserables. He notably donned a fresh face while portraying mathematician John Nash in the 2001 film, A Beautiful Mind. Crowe most recently shocked his followers on X when he revealed that hes supposedly related to Simon Fraser, the 11th Lord Lovat, who was the last man to be executed by beheading in England. The New Zealand born actor shared in a post that had been carrying out genealogical research into his own family tree when he made the discovery. He explained that a relative on his fathers mothers side, John Jock Fraser, arrived in New Zealand in 1841. He is believed to be a direct descendant of Simon Fraser. Look him up, suggested Crowe. Hes quite the character. The Old Fox they used to call him. Seems his Machiavellian ways caught up to him at the age of 80, [and] he has a claim to infamy as the last man to have the head chopped off his living body in the Tower of London, he continued. His death even coined a phrase. Apparently, they set up temporary stands for the gentry to watch him die. One of these stands collapsed which resulted in the death of nine onlookers. Being told this just before he was put to death made him laugh. He was still laughing when the blade struck his neck, thereby laughing his head off. Fascinating. Fraser was sentenced to death for high treason in 1747 and died on Tower Hill after being held in the Tower of London. 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 }} Wolfgang Puck is cooking up something special for the 30th anniversary of the famed Oscars after-party, Governors Ball. Speaking to Good Morning America, the cooking connoisseur revealed the menu that he and his catering team plan on serving Hollywoods elite on 10 March. Were going to have some traditional dishes and also some brand-new innovation, he told the outlet. Can you believe this year Im doing the Governors Ball for the 30th time? So Ill see you all on the red carpet! For the 96th annual Academy Awards, Puck, 74, will combine his renowned specialties like the smoked salmon Oscars statuettes with contemporary bites, like honey butter toast topped with fennel marmalade and a plop of whipped creme fraiche. Crafted by Puck and Eric Klein, senior vice president of culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, the night will feature items from three menus: passed plates and trays, small plate stations, and sweets. Each categorised cuisine includes 17-20 options, vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Wagyu burgers with sharp cheddar and remoulade will be floating around on trays, as will vegan options like Kung Pao Cauliflower Stuffed Coconut Charcoal Bao Bun and Edamame Mushroom Carrot Potstickers. Black truffle chicken pot pies will be passed around with Cacio e Pepe Macaroni and Cheese, as well as Bougie Tots with Creme Fraiche and Caviar. A mezze grazing table with saffron-infused rice, tortilla de patata, Cinco Jotas Iberico Jamon, and gourmet dips, and a paella bar will also satisfy vegan and non-vegan hunger. The small plate stations will consist of three fish and chips options, a crispy rice bar, Chinois On Main, and an assortment of wood fired pizzas. For dessert, A-listers can choose from 20 options that include Yuzu and Coconut Pillow Cake, mini chocolate Oscars coated in edible gold, homemade pistachio burma, and several mendiants - traditional French chocolate discs with fruit and nut toppings. Puck will grace the red carpet outside The Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, before his decadent feast is served. The Austrian-American chef is celebrated for his high-end restaurant hospitality. From New York to Singapore, Puck owns a total of 20 restaurants around the world. On top of his incredible cuisine, the food fanatic also produces a line of kitchen tools, cookbooks, coffee, and appliances. 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 Metropolitan Police officer convicted of multiple counts of rape told one of his victims she wouldnt be believed because he was in the force. Cliff Mitchell, 24, of Putney was found guilty of ten counts of rape, three counts of rape of a child under 13, one count of kidnap and breach of a non-molestation order following a trial at Croydon Crown Court on Wednesday, 21 February. Police said the child rapist commited brazen abuse of power. He was a serving PC in Hounslow when a number of the offences were committed. Mitchell approached one of his victims with a knife in September 2023 and told her to put her arms behind her back, before tying her up with cable ties and putting tape over her mouth. One of Mitchells victims said he forced her and another person to get into his car and only managed to escape by saying she had to get out of the vehicle because she felt sick. She was later seen running through traffic by members of the public before a passer-by noticed what was going on and managed to get her in her vehicle, his trial was told. In a 999 call played to the court, the distressed woman told the operator hes kidnapped me and hes behind us as she travelled in the car of the passer-by who had offered help. Mitchell had previously been subject to a rape investigation in 2017, which had resulted in no further action, the force said. Following his arrest, the case was reinvestigated which resulted in Mitchell being charged with an additional three counts of rape of a child under 13 and three counts of rape. Cliff Mitchell (MET POLICE) These six charges relate to a second victim and occurred between 2014 and 2017, the Met said. Mitchell, of Wandsworth, south-west London, was a Pc in the Mets West Area Basic Command Unit. He was serving in Hounslow when a number of the offences were committed, the Met said. He was suspended from the force after the allegations came to light and has since been dismissed. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy described Mitchells actions as deplorable. He continued: This is a truly shocking case and I am sickened by Mitchells abhorrent behaviour and the pain he has caused the victims, who have shown enormous bravery by coming forward and giving evidence in court. It is down to their courage that he has been convicted and faces a significant custodial sentence. I would also like to recognise the brave member of the public who came to the aid of one of the victims as she ran from Mitchells car. Mitchell not only carried out a sustained campaign of abuse against both of his victims, but he told one of them she would never be believed due to the fact he was a police officer. This brazen abuse of power makes Mitchells actions all the more deplorable. I know this is another case which will impact the confidence people have in us. We are doing more than we have done in decades to rid the Met of those who corrupt our integrity, including investing millions of pounds into our professional standards team and bringing in additional officers and staff with specialist skills and experience to investigate criminality and misconduct. Part of that is dismissing officers who should not be here at the earliest opportunity. Mitchell was dismissed from the Met in December 2023 we did not wait for his conviction today. 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 fell to his death from an apartment block window shortly after police burst into a flat. The man, in his 40s, was pronounced dead on the pavement outside Roach Court apartments in the Collyhurst area of Manchester on Tuesday evening. Police had been executing a warrant into a criminal investigation at around 7pm just moments before the man fell from a height. Neighbours in the apartment block were left shocked and concerned as emergency responders battled to save his life, according to councillor Pat Karney. Residents tell me they think this was from an Airbnb flat in Roach Court, Cllr Karney wrote. Clearly what has taken place has had a traumatic impact on residents. Have you been affected by this incident? Email barney.davis.ind@independent.co.uk The death has been referred to Greater Manchester Polices Professional Standards Directorate and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IPOC). A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: On Tuesday 20 February 2024, at around 7pm, Greater Manchester Police executed a warrant at a property on Hamerton Road, Manchester in connection with a criminal investigation. A short time later, a male who was in the property at the time fell from a height. Despite the best efforts of the officers in attendance and paramedics, he was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene. In line with normal procedure, the incident has been referred to the forces Professional Standards Directorate and the Independent Office for Police Conduct. The IOPC has been approached for comment. 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 }} Tributes have been paid to a teenage boy stabbed to death on the street. Nathan Bawuah, 17, was knifed repeatedly in the nightlife hotspot of Shoreditch, east London, just before 11pm on Saturday night. Friends of Nathan came to the scene in Hackney Road, near the junction with Cremer Street, to lay flowers and cards in his memory. Forensic officers work near to the scene (PA) One card said: You were a good soul inside and, so genuine, rest safe. Known you longer than I can remember cant imagine the world without you in it. Rest in peace brother. Have you been affected by this story? Email barney.davis.ind@independent.co.uk A student, 22, living nearby told The Standard: I heard desperate screaming and some male voices shouting. It was horrible. I cant get the noises out of my head, it was obvious someone had been badly hurt. I only moved in last month - its really affected me. Nathan was the second teenager to be stabbed to death in London this year. The first was Tyler Donnelly, 19, who was found by joggers in a Feltham park on January 25. A total of 21 teenagers were killed in the capital last year, up from 14 in 2022. Another teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, will appear in custody at Stratford Magistrates Court charged with murder on Wednesday in relation to Nathans death. He was arrested by detectives on Monday, 19 February. Tyler Donnelly was the first teenager to be fatally stabbed in London in 2024 (Family Handout/PA Wire) A Met spokesman said: Nathans family has been informed and continue to receive support from specialist officers. Formal identification awaits. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 21 February at Poplar Mortuary. Detective chief inspector Joanna Yorke, from Specialist Crime North, added: While we have already spoken to a number of people, the incident took place on a busy road and we know there will have been others in the area at the time who are yet to come forward. I would ask those individuals to make contact and tell us what you saw. Anyone with information or witnesses are asked to call 101, ref 7553/17Feb. To remain anonymous, please contact the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 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 minister has said that former defence secretary Ben Wallace and former director of special forces General Sir Roly Walker, who is to become head of the army in June, failed to properly investigate allegations of war crimes by the SAS in Afghanistan. Veterans minister Johnny Mercer was speaking to an inquiry into killings of Afghans by the UK special forces between 2010 and 2013. He told the inquiry yesterday that he tried to investigate the claims but that senior figures with the UK special forces were unable to answer basic questions and he did not believe them. On Tuesday, Mr Mercer said it became clear that figures within the Ministry of Defence were working against me when an email trail relating to the SAS allegations was published by The Sunday Times in 2020. He became angry with then-defence secretary Ben Wallace, then-director of special forces Gen Walker and other senior MoD figures after The Sunday Times piece showed that senior special forces officers expressed serious concerns about the killings of 33 people in 11 night raids in the war-torn nation in 2011. Mr Mercer said the director of special forces, the chief of the general staff and the defence secretary had "not done their job that was incumbent upon them with their rank and privileges in those organisations". He later added that senior figures within the MoD had failed in their most basic duty. He clarified that he did not think that anybody lied to me. Minister for veterans affairs Johnny Mercer continued his evidence to the inquiry on Wednesday (PA Wire) Gen Walker was director of special forces from 2018-2021 and he is due to take over as head of the army in June this year. Mr Mercer said he had repeatedly asked to see documentation relating to the UKSF war crimes allegations. He told the inquiry: It was completely unacceptable that I had asked to see this information and I found out about it in The Sunday Times. The veterans minister wrote to Mr Wallace in August 2020 shortly after emails surfaced. The letter, shown to the inquiry, detailed how he told Mr Wallace it was "completely unacceptable" he had been allowed to make statements to the Commons in January 2020 when people knew them to be "incorrect". Mr Mercer had played down the allegations in public and told the Commons that internal UKSF complaints related to a small number of individuals within the investigations team, when they were in fact widespread. Veterans minister Johnny Mercer said he was angry with former defence Secretary Ben Wallace (PA Archive) He asked Mr Wallace if he could correct the record in parliament but was refused, he told the inquiry. Later on, Mr Mercer said he has also heard from members of Afghan partner units directly that they had refused to work with a British special forces unit, known to the inquiry as UKSF1, after Afghan men, who had been restrained, were shot dead by UK special forces. They claimed Afghan children had also been killed by British soldiers, the inquiry heard. The killing of children was one trigger for Afghan partner forces to refuse to work with UKSF1, he said. Mr Mercer confirmed to the inquiry that these were allegations of murder. Many members of these Afghan partner units, known as the Triples, have been denied sanctuary in the UK by the MoD. UKSF have power over whether their applications for relocation are approved. Mr Mercer was also warned by the chairman of the independent inquiry of potentially serious legal consequences after he refused to disclose names of his sources to the investigation. Sir Charles Haddon-Cave told Mr Mercer his decision to refuse to answer legitimate questions ... at a public inquiry were disappointing ... surprising ... and completely unacceptable. He added that his refusal could have potentially serious legal consequences that I am prepared to put in train. Afghan families have accused UK special forces of conducting a campaign of murder against civilians, while senior officers and personnel at the MoD sought to prevent adequate investigation. Two Royal Military Police investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the inquiry. No charges were brought under Operation Northmoor - a 10m investigation which was set up in 2014 to examine allegations of executions by special forces, including those of children. Operation Cestro saw three soldiers referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority, but none of them were prosecuted. The inquiry continues. 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 }} Watch from outside the High Court in London as Julian Assanges legal challenge to stop his extradition from Britain to the United States takes place on Wednesday 21 February. The WikiLeaks founder faces extradition to the US over an alleged conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information following the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. In a January 2021 ruling, then-district judge Vanessa Baraitser said that Assange should not be sent to the US, citing a real and oppressive risk of suicide, while ruling against him on all other issues. But later that year, US authorities won their High Court bid to overturn this block, paving the way towards Assanges extradition. Lawyers for the 52-year-old are now asking for the go-ahead to challenge the original judges dismissal of other parts of his case to prevent his extradition. During the first day of the hearing on Tuesday, Mark Summers KC argued the US prosecution of Assange would be retribution for his political opinions, meaning it would be unlawful to extradite him under UK law. 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 }} WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been fighting for more than a decade to avoid extradition to the United States to face charges related to his organization's publication of a huge trove of classified documents. He has been in custody in a high-security London prison since 2019, and previously spent seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. As his lawyers begin a final round of legal challenge Tuesday to stop him from being sent from Britain to the U.S., here is a look at key events in the long-running legal saga: August 2010: Swedish prosecutors issue arrest warrant for Assange based on one womans allegation of rape and anothers allegation of molestation. The warrant is withdrawn shortly afterward, with prosecutors citing insufficient evidence for the rape allegation. Assange denies the allegations. September 2010: Swedens director of prosecutions reopens the rape investigation. Assange leaves Sweden for Britain. November 2010: Swedish police issue an international arrest warrant for Assange. December 2010: Assange surrenders to police in London and is detained pending an extradition hearing. High Court grants Assange bail. February 2011: District court in Britain rules Assange should be extradited to Sweden. June 2012: Assange enters Ecuadorian Embassy in central London, seeking asylum on June 19, after his bids to appeal the extradition ruling failed. Police set up round-the-clock guard to arrest him if he steps outside. August 2012: Assange is granted political asylum by Ecuador. July 2014: Assange loses his bid to have an arrest warrant issued in Sweden against him canceled. A judge in Stockholm upholds the warrant alleging sexual offences against two women. March 2015: Swedish prosecutors ask to question Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy. August 2015: Swedish prosecutors drop investigations into some allegations against Assange because of the statute of limitations; an investigation into a rape allegation remains active. October 2015: Metropolitan Police end their 24-hour guard outside the Ecuadorean embassy but say theyll arrest Assange if he leaves, ending a three-year police operation estimated to have cost millions. February 2016: Assange claims total vindication as the U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention finds that he has been unlawfully detained and recommends he be immediately freed and given compensation. Britain calls the finding frankly ridiculous. September 2018: Ecuadors president says his country and Britain are working on a legal solution to allow Assange to leave the embassy. October 2018: Assange seeks a court injunction pressing Ecuador to provide him basic rights he said the country agreed to when it first granted him asylum. November 2018: A U.S. court filing that appears to inadvertently reveal the existence of a sealed criminal case against Assange is discovered by a researcher. No details are confirmed. April 2019: Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno blames WikiLeaks for recent corruption allegations; Ecuador's government withdraws Assange's asylum status. London police arrest Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy for breaching bail conditions in 2012, as well as on behalf of U.S. authorities. May 2019: Assange is sentenced to 50 weeks in prison for jumping bail in 2012. November 2019: Swedish prosecutor drops rape investigation. May 2020: An extradition hearing for Assange is delayed amid the COVID-19 pandemic. June 2020: US files new indictment against Assange that prosecutors say underscores Assanges efforts to procure and release classified information. January 2021: A District Court judge rules Assange cannot be extradited to the U.S. because he is likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. July 2021: The High Court grants the U.S. government permission to appeal the lower court's ruling blocking Assange's extradition. December 2021: The High Court rules that U.S. assurances about Assange's detention are enough to guarantee he would be treated humanely. March 2022: Britains top court refuses to grant Assange permission to appeal against his extradition. June 2022: Britain's government orders the extradition of Assange to the United States. Assange appeals. Feb. 20, 2024: Assange's lawyers launch a final legal bid to stop his extradition at the High Court. Close No evidence Julian Assange's WikiLeaks publication harmed anyone, lawyer claims 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 }} Julian Assange put people at grave and imminent risk by including the names of people who helped the US in unredacted classified documents which he indiscriminately and knowingly published to the world, a court has heard. The WikiLeaks founder failed to appear in the High Court for a second day running in his long-standing battle against extradition to the US, where he is accused of leaking confidential military secrets. The 52-year-old Australian, who faces 17 charges of espionage and one of computer misuse, is wanted by US authorities over an alleged conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information following the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. His lawyers said that if extradited, he would face a flagrant denial of justice by prejudiced judges, and was being prosecuted for ordinary journalistic practice. A judge ruled in 2021 that Assange should not be sent to the US, given there was a real risk of suicide, but ruled against him on all other issues. Assange, who is in Belmarsh jail in London, is now seeking permission to challenge the judges dismissal of other parts of his case. Read the events from court today below: 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 }} Julian Assange put lives at imminent risk by publishing the names of those who helped the US in unredacted classified documents, a court was told on Wednesday as the WikiLeaks founder battles extradition. Lawyers for the US insisted that the prosecution of Mr Assange, 52, was based on law and evidence and not his political opinions in the second day of a crunch High Court hearing. The hearing is the latest in his five-year battle to fight extradition. It is feared Mr Assange, 52, could be put on a flight to the US within days to face spying charges over the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. His team is seeking permission to appeal in a last-ditch bid to halt his extradition over fears he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted for publishing the classified documents. Hundreds of protesters braved wet weather to rally in support of Mr Assange on the final day of the two-day hearing on Wednesday, with judges set to deliver their ruling at a later date. Supporters carrying banners and yellow ribbons gathered outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, where crowds chanted free, free Julian Assange and no extradition. Stella Assange addressed crowds of supporters outside the High Court in London (Getty Images) It comes after his lawyers on Tuesday insisted his prosecution was state retaliation by the US and he is at risk of a flagrant denial of justice if he is extradited. However, lawyers for the US told Dame Victoria Sharp and Mr Justice Johnson that the leaks were one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the United States. Opposing Mr Assanges bid for an appeal, they told the court his case is unarguable and should not be allowed to proceed to a full hearing. Clair Dobbin KC told the court the US prosecution of Mr Assange was based on law and evidence, insisting that the WikiLeaks founder put people at grave and imminent risk by including the names of individuals who assisted the US in unredacted classified documents which he indiscriminately and knowingly published to the world. These were documents that disclosed to the world the unredacted names of human sources who had provided information to the US, she said, adding that this separates Mr Assange from the New York Times and other news outlets which also published information exposed by WikiLeaks. The court also heard that WikiLeaks and Mr Assange had explicitly solicited classified documents and sought to recruit and work with computer hackers to obtain information illegally. It is these facts that have led to his prosecution not his political opinions, Ms Dobbin added. Julian Assange now faces a wait to see whether his final bid to bring an appeal over his extradition to the US can go ahead at the High Court (AP) She also urged the judges to consider the fundamental assumption of good faith on the part of states with which the UK has long established extradition relations. The US is one of the most long-standing partners of the UK, she told the court. She insisted that then-district judge Vanessa Baraitser, in her 2021 extradition ruling, had rejected outright that Mr Assange should treated as a journalist or someone akin to a journalist. Joel Smith, also for the US, told the court that the potential sentence faced by Mr Assange in America is not grossly disproportionate and even through a UK lens the alleged offence is grave and entirely unprecedented. He said the leaking of unredacted documents forced the setting up of a taskforce to protect those identified, while the global impact was felt not just in Afghanistan and Iraq, but also in China, Syria and Iran. That is a sweep of offending which is beyond the scope of anything criminal courts in this country have had to grapple with, he added. Demonstrators protested outside of the Royal Courts of Justice as the hearing took place on Wednesday (AFP) Although the WikiLeaks founder, who is being held in high security HMP Belmarsh in southeast London, was granted permission to attend court, he was too unwell to come. Mark Summers KC, for Mr Assange, argued that even a sentence of 30 or 40 years imprisonment would amount to the rest of his natural life adding that he had exposed harm on titanic a scale. A group of around 20 protesters and environmentalists staged a sit-in inside the main hall of the Royal Courts of Justice after the two-day hearing for Mr Assange finished, with court staff removing them as the historic building was locked up for the night. At a press conference last week, Mr Assanges wife Stella warned the outcome of the appeal bid is life or death for her husband, who has deteriorated in prison where he spends 22-hours a day in confinement. The Australian national has been in prison since he was removed from the Ecuadorian embassy in 2019. Ms Assange, who met her husband while working as part of his legal team, said: The situation is extremely grave. He could be on a plane within days. His health is in decline, mentally and physically. His life is at risk every single day he stays in prison, and if hes extradited, he will die. But its not just about being extradited. Julian should never have been put in prison in the first place. 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 government is facing questions over the effectiveness of Britains nuclear deterrent after a test launch of the UKs Trident nuclear missile failed, crashing back into the ocean close to the submarine that fired it. The unarmed Trident II missile was launched from the nuclear-powered HMS Vanguard as part of final tests following a 500m overhaul, before the vessel returns to patrol service. It left the submarine but it just went plop, right next to them, a source said. The launch was carried out off the east coast of Florida on 30 January but has only just been revealed. Shapps said the government retained absolute confidence in the UKs nuclear deterrent (AP) The failure, at a time of heightened international tensions and when the readiness of Britains navy is under scrutiny, is embarrassing for ministers. Another Trident missile veered off course during a test launch in 2016. Defence secretary Grant Shapps was on board the 150-metre submarine at the time of the most recent failure, and first sea lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also reportedly there. The Labour Party has sought assurances from Rishi Sunak in the wake of the incident, calling the missile test failure concerning. But Mr Shapps said the government retained absolute confidence in the UKs nuclear deterrent. The anomaly had no implications for the UKs ability to deploy nuclear weapons, he insisted. It comes just 10 days after the departure of the UKs flagship aircraft carrier for a major Nato exercise was postponed after an unspecified issue was found in final checks. Last month, Mr Shapps said the UK was in a pre-war phase. However, former Trades Union Congress (TUC) chief Frances OGrady said the vision of Mr Shapps on board seemed like a terrible metaphor for what is happening in the country. We know about the squeeze on budgets; we have 25,000 fewer troops than in 2010; we know how important the defence sector is for jobs, but lots of procurement failures too, she told the BBCs Politics Live. It feels like this is a time, especially in a world that feels really unsafe, where we need a proper strategic review and a look at what are the real threats we face and the best way to meet them. The Trident missile had been due to land thousands of miles away, in the Atlantic Ocean between Brazil and west Africa. It was successfully propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch pipe, but the first-stage boosters did not ignite and the missile crashed back into the water. Former Royal Navy warfare officer Chris Parry said the missile had operated correctly the procedural error meant a command abort had to happen for safety reasons. Matthew Savill, director of military sciences at the Royal United Services Institute, a defence and security think tank, said the Vanguard fleet was operating beyond its expected service life. Theyre working on the basis that the Vanguard submarines are going to be at least a decade beyond their original service lives, he said. And that creates stresses and strains on the system. HMS Vengeance, another Royal Navy Vanguard class Trident ballistic missile submarine (Reuters) Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The defence secretary will want to reassure parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UKs deterrent operations. Labours support for the UKs nuclear deterrent is total. We recognise the special service of those whove maintained our continuous at-sea deterrence for over 50 years. Mr Shapps said the test had been the culmination of a demonstration and shakedown operation to gauge the performance of Vanguards weapons and crew after the refit. He said the operation reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UKs nuclear deterrent, and that the submarine and crew were successfully certified ready for operation, but that an anomaly had occurred that was event-specific. There are no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpiles, he said. Nor are there any implications for our ability to fire our nuclear weapons, should the circumstances arise in which we need to do so. The prime ministers official spokesperson said the government had complete confidence in Britains nuclear deterrent. He repeated the Ministry of Defences explanation that there had been an anomaly, but said that, for national security reasons, he was unable to expand on what that meant. There was this specific anomaly, but we are confident that the anomaly was specific to the test and that there are no wider implications, he said. Britains nuclear deterrent is provided by four nuclear-powered submarines equipped with the American-built Trident ballistic missile system, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The warheads are built in Britain. Britain and the US say there have been more than 190 successful tests of Trident, which can be fired at targets up to 4,000 miles away and can travel at more than 13,000 miles an hour according to the Royal Navy. In the 1980s, the UK spent 12.52bn on acquiring Trident the equivalent of 21bn in 2022-23 prices, according to figures from the House of Commons Library. It costs around 3bn a year to operate. The Ministry of Defence said it is spending more than 50bn a year in cash terms on the armed forces, supporting global deployments and continuing to invest in new tanks, fighter jets and warships. 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 }} Seven years ago, Julian Assange stood outside the Ecuadorian embassy and greeted his supporters with a fist in the air - he couldnt have thought a prolonged legal battle against extradition to the US would have continued until this week. The 52-year-old Australian was at the embassy in London seeking asylum as Swedish authorities wanted to speak to him over a rape allegation which was later dropped. He feared that leaving the UK would lead to him being sent to the US where he was soon to be charged with conspiring to hack into military databases to acquire sensitive information following the publication of files on WikiLeaks. Julian Assange greets supporters outside the Ecuadorian embassy in London - where he remained for seven years while fighting extradition to Sweden and US (AP) But now the US appears on the verge of bringing him across the Atlantic unless he is successful in his final bid to appeal against the extradition at a two-day hearing taking place at the Royal Courts of Justice this week. Here we explain who Assange is, how it got to this stage and what could happen next: Who is Julian Assange? Julian Assange was born in Townsville, Australia, and had a nomadic childhood, travelling across more than 30 towns and cities in his native country with his parents separating before he was born. A keen student of programming and maths, he quickly gained a reputation as an astute computer programmer which led to him becoming skilled in hacking. In 1996, he pleaded guilty to 24 hacking charges in Australia before being fined, only avoiding a prison sentence after promising not to do it again. He went on to study at the University of Melbourne between 2003 and 2006 but did not complete a degree. Julian Assange sought refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in London in 2012 and remained there until 2019, when he was arrested and sent to Belmarsh, where he has been ever since (PA Archive) As a teenager, Assange married a woman called Teresa but the pair later separated. He is now married to Stella Assange, a lawyer who met him in 2011 when she was hired as part of his legal team. What is WikiLeaks? Assange founded the website WikiLeaks in 2006. Using his computing skills, he created an online platform for people to anonymously submit classified leaks such as documents and videos. Since its birth it has released around 10 million classified documents, including files on US military activities in the US. It rose to prominence in April 2010 when it published a classified video showing a 2007 US helicopter attack in Iraqs capital Baghdad that killed a dozen people, including two Reuters journalists. Demonstrators show their support to Assange before the appeal hearing on Tuesday morning (AFP via Getty Images) On the Afghanistan war, its claimed more than 90,000 classified US military documents were released and on the invasion of Iraq around 400,000 confidential US files. The leaks, described as the largest security breaches of their kind in US military history, angered and embarrassed US politicians and military officials who claimed the disclosure put lives at risk. But defenders of the website say it reveals unreported incidents including the killing of civilians. What is Assange charged with by the US? Back in 2019, the US authorities reacted to the continued publishing of documents from WikiLeaks by charging him with conspiracy to commit computer intrusion for agreeing to break a password to a classified US government computer. In a press release issued by the US Office of Public Affairs, which can be seen here, it said the charge related to Assanges alleged role in one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the United States. Later in the same year, he was then charged with an 18-count indictment superseding the previous that alleged he had repeatedly sought, obtained and disseminated information that the US classified due to the serious risk that unauthorised disclosure could harm the national security of the US. Following the issuing of an indictment, the US began extradition authorities to bring Assange to the US. His lawyers claim that he will face up to 175 years in jail if convicted. What has Assange been doing up till now? Assange has been restricted in his movements for almost 14 years. It started when Swedish authorities issued an arrest warrant for Assange in 2010 as they investigating an allegation of rape against him while he was in the country - and asked the UK to extradite Assange. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange gestures on the balcony of the Ecuadorian embassy prior to speaking, in London, (AP) Assange was arrested by British police and after he lost an appeal against extradition he sought asylum in the Ecuadorean Embassy in London, claiming the Swedish case would lead him to being sent to the US. Assange spent seven years in the embassy before in 2019 he was detained by police again for breaching bail conditions connected to his arrest for the Swedish case. In the same year, Swedish authorities dropped their case against Assange. Assange was given a 50-week prison sentence - and has remained at Belmarsh prison since, fighting his extradition to the US. How has Assange prevented extradition to the US up till now? Assange and his supporters have resisted strongly to extradition to the US - and their campaign looked to have been successful when Judge Vanessa Baraitser refused his extradition because of fears that he could take his own life in January 2021. The decision was met with joy by his supporters, however it was to be short-lived. In December of the same year, US authorities won an appeal at Londons High Court against the decision, after giving a package of assurances about the conditions of Assanges detention if convicted, including a pledge he could be transferred to Australia to serve any sentence. Stella Assange leads the protest outside the High Court on Tuesday where the last bid to stop extradition under UK appeal process takes place (PA) In a further blow to his supporters, in June 2022, home secretary Priti Patel approved the extradition, and last year a judge at Londons High Court turned down his request for an appeal. A two-day hearing this week is Assanges last chance to appeal in the UK legal process. If he succeeds, his case will go to a full appeal. If he loses, the only remaining block to his extradition lies with the European Court of Human Rights - a move his legal team have already said they would take. Assanges brother, Gabriel Shipton, said he was going through an immense amount of suffering while being held in prison and said his health was deteriorating. Who are his supporters? Assanges fight against US extradition has attracted wide support from around the world, including country leaders and media freedom activists. At the protest which took place outside the Royal Courts of Justice on Tuesday morning, Assanges wife Stella led a round of speakers which included former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, Tim Dawson, the deputy general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, Labour MP for Coventry South Zarah Sultana and MP for Poplar and Limehouse, Apsana Begum. In September 2020, 160 former and current world leaders and diplomats signed a letter demanding the UK government prevent his extradition. Support has also come from former Argentina president Alberto Fernadez and former Brazilian leader Lula Da Silva. Rights groups such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the American Civil Liberties Union have called for his release. 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 }} Britain has sanctioned the leaders of the Polar Wolf prison camp in Russia where opposition leader Alexei Navalny died. Days after Navalnys death, the UK imposed travel bans and asset freezes on six individuals heading up the notoriously brutal FKU IK-3 prison camp. Britain is the first country to impose measures in response to the politicians death, which has been widely blamed on the Kremlin by Western countries. Foreign secretary David Cameron said the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and tried repeatedly to silence him. FSB operatives poisoned him with Novichok in 2020, they imprisoned him for peaceful political activities, and they sent him to an Arctic penal colony. No one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system, Lord Cameron added. The former prime minister said those being sanctioned are the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in IK-3. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion we will hold them accountable, he said. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died behind bars in Russia (AFP/Getty) Those being sanctioned are the prisons head, Colonel Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, as well as deputies Sergey Nikolaevich Korzhov, Vasily Alexandrovich Vydrin, Vladimir Ivanovich Pilipchik, Aleksandr Vladimirovich Golyakov and Aleksandr Valerievich Obraztsov. Rishi Sunak said the UK and its allies were considering all options to respond to the death of Navalny. The prime minister told the Commons: The whole House will join me in sending our deepest condolences to the family of Alexei Navalny. He died for a cause to which he dedicated his whole life, freedom. And to return home knowing that [Vladimir] Putin had already tried to have him killed was one of the most courageous acts of our time. Together with our allies, we are considering all options to hold Russia and Putin to account and this morning, we sanctioned those running the prison where Alexei Navalnys body still lies. Sir Keir Starmer joined his political opponent in scrutinising Navalnys death as he told MPs that Putin had stolen the future and democracy of the Russian people. Speaking during Prime Ministers Questions, the Labour leader said: Im sure the whole House will join in sharing our disgust at the death of Alexei Navalny who, as the prime minister said, died because of his efforts to expose the corruption of the Putin regime. It is a reminder that Putin has stolen not just the wealth but also the future and democracy of the Russian people. Britain has also called for Navalnys body to be released to his family and for a full and transparent investigation into his killing. The IK-3 penal colony, where Navalny was serving his jail term and where he died (Reuters) The so-called Polar Wolf prison camp is beyond the Arctic Circle and inmates are reportedly subjected to harsh punishments such as being doused with water outdoors in the winter. The UK government said Navalny was kept in solitary confinement for up to two weeks at a time while his condition had deteriorated in his three years in prison. It also said that he had suffered from being denied medical treatment, as well as having to walk in -32C weather while being held in the prison. Following the announcement of Navalnys death on Friday, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office summoned a representative of the Russian government to make clear that the politicians death must be investigated fully and transparently, and those in the Russian regime responsible held to account. In response to the news that Navalnys family is being denied access to his body, the UK is also calling for the Russian authorities to release it to them immediately. Lord Cameron is attending the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Brazil on Wednesday and Thursday, where he will reportedly use the opportunity to call out Russias aggression and its global impact directly to Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. Responding to the plans, Conservative MP for Rutland and Melton and chair of the foreign affairs committee Alicia Kearns said the UK needs to go a lot further. 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 }} A war of words has erupted between Boris Johnson and Tucker Carlson over claims the former prime minister was prepared to debate the controversial right-wing journalist for $1m. Mr Carlson, who this month interviewed Vladimir Putin, said Mr Johnson had demanded the seven-figure sum for a sitdown interview on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. But Mr Johnson has disputed Mr Carlsons account as untrue, with allies of the ex-PM saying he had offered to take part in the interview for a million-dollar donation to Ukrainian veterans charities. Mr Carlson also mocked Mr Johnson, joking that his names not actually Boris (Getty) It is understood Mr Johnson pulled out after the murder of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Mr Carlson has been ridiculed in recent weeks over his support for Putin and the Kremlin, having filmed videos praising Russian shopping trolleys and admiring Moscows subway system. It came after the former Fox News host sat down for a fawning two-hour interview with the authoritarian Russian leader. Mr Johnson attacked Mr Carlsons Putin interview, saying it was straight out of Hitlers playbook. He said the American broadcaster had been the stooge of the tyrant, the dictaphone to the dictator and a traitor to journalism. And, in a column for Mail+, he accused Mr Carlson of betraying viewers and listeners around the world for not taking the Russian leader to task for the torture, the rapes, the blowing up of kindergartens in Ukraine, pointing out that not once did he even try to dam the flow of lies. Speaking to right-wing outlet The Blaze, Mr Carlson hit back at the ex-PM. Boris Johnson, who was for a short time the prime minister of Great Britain calls me a tool of the Kremlin or something, he said. He added: I was annoyed. So I put in a request for an interview with Boris Johnson, as I have many times because hes constantly denouncing me as a tool of the Kremlin. He says no. Mr Carlson said that after reaching out to a lot of people who know Boris Johnson, he was told he would do the interview but its going to cost you $1m. I said to the guy I just interviewed Vladimir Putin. Im not defending Putin, but Putin didnt ask for a million dollars. So youre telling me that Boris Johnson is a lot sleazier than Vladimir Putin? Which is true. A spokesman for Mr Johnson said: This account is untrue. Mr Carlson also mocked Mr Johnson, whose real name is Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson. His names not actually Boris his name is Alex Johnson, he called himself Boris in high school, so the guy who calls himself Boris is accusing me? he added. 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 }} Chaos broke out in the House of Commons on Wednesday night as furious MPs walked out in protest at the speakers handling of the Gaza ceasefire debate. Dozens also signed a vote of no confidence against him. Members on both sides left the chamber in anger after Sir Lindsay Hoyle allowed amendments from the government and Labour on the SNPs motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, which has cost more than 29,000 lives according to the Gaza health ministry. This broke convention in which only the governments amendment should have been debated and voted on. In a night of extraordinary drama in Westminster, the speakers decision prompted howls of protest from MPs and shouts of bring back Bercow referring to his controversial predecessor, John Bercow. He was then forced to return to the Commons to issue a grovelling apology for the mayhem, which was thwarted by shouts of resign from MPs on both sides of the House. Conservative Party and SNP MPs leave the chamber on Wednesday evening (Parliament TV) The evening descended into chaos after Sir Lindsay ruled that the Commons should vote first on Labours call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire before moving on to the SNPs original motion, and then finally onto the governments proposals if either of the first two failed to garner enough support. Both Tory and SNP MPs walked out, leaving Labours amendment to pass unopposed. Commons Leader and Tory MP Penny Mordaunt accused the speaker of hijacking the debate and undermining the confidence of the House by selecting Labours amendment. She said he had raised temperatures and put MPs in a more difficult position. Sir Lindsay had been warned by House of Commons clerk Tom Goldsmith about the unprecedented nature of his decision before his clash with MPs, the senior official saying he felt compelled to point out that long-established conventions are not being followed in this case. The speaker now faces a no-confidence motion, which was gathering support from both Conservative and SNP members across the House. Proposed by Tory MP William Wragg, it had been signed by 33 Tory and SNP MPs late on Wednesday evening. Sir Lindsay tried to quell the fury of MPs by telling the Commons: I thought I was doing the right thing and the best thing, and I regret it, and I apologise for how its ended up. I do take responsibility for my actions, and thats why I want to meet with the key players who have been involved. Sir Lindsay announces his decision on amendments to the SNPs Gaza ceasefire motion (PA Wire) But his efforts were jeered, and Mr Wragg claimed ministers had approached him saying they wanted to sign his no confidence motion. Shadow Commons leader Lucy Powell said the government does not have the numbers for a majority on their motion, as she defended Sir Lindsay. She told MPs: Last time I looked, the government benches had a majority in this House, so if they dont like the amendments that are before them, they could vote this evening to defeat those amendments. But they have decided now not to, I understand, vote in those debates. So perhaps we have to ask the question whether or not they do still command a majority in this House this evening, or whether they are trying to hide behind some other reason? Suggestions that the speaker had been influenced by threats from senior Labour figures to call their amendment were wrong, insisted deputy speaker Dame Rosie Winterton. Conservative MP Philip Davies referred to a tweet claiming the speaker had been warned Labour would bring him down after the general election unless he called their Gaza amendment. Amid shouts of shocking and jeers from Tory MPs, Mr Davis added: Can you assure the house that everything will be done to identify who it was that put that intolerable pressure on the House of Commons speaker? Dame Rosie replied: That tweet is wrong and the statement is incorrect. As the Commons descended into farce, Conservative former ministers were among those MPs suggesting the votes in the Gaza debate should be run again. Trying to explain his actions by trying to allow all three amendments, Sir Lindsay said: Todays debate was exceptional in its intensity with which all parties wished to secure a vote. He said he had taken his decision with the right intentions to allow as many MPs as possible to express their view. People with Palestinian flags queued to get into parliament for the Gaza vote (Getty Images) I wanted to do the best, and it was my wish to do the best by every member of this House. He went on: I was very concerned, I am still concerned... about the security of members, their families and the people that are involved. I am, and I regret with my sadness, that its ended up in this position. That was never my intention for it to end like this. I was absolutely convinced that the decision was done with the right intentions. Helen McEachern, chief executive of Care International UK, said she was dismayed by the political theatrics over parliamentary procedure that did nothing to help the people of Gaza. Without an immediate sustained ceasefire, they will not receive the food, water and medical supplies needed to save lives and prevent further injuries, she said. Sir Keir Starmer defended his partys amendment, saying it was intended to unite parliament and speak with one voice on the horrendous situation in Gaza and Israel. He insisted it was a serious plan for such an incredibly serious situation and accused the other parties of playing politics. Unfortunately, the Conservatives and the SNP decided to walk out hand in hand, refusing to vote on this serious matter, yet again choosing political games over serious solutions. 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 }} Liz Truss has delivered an apocalyptic warning that the West is doomed unless right-wing politicians like her are put in power to save it. Echoing the rhetoric of Donald Trump, she blamed the deep state for her downfall as prime minister when her policies sparked an economic crash. Ms Truss made her controversial comments in an article for Fox News TV, the right-wing US television station credited with helping Mr Trump win power. Liz Truss recently launched the right-wing pressure group Popular Conservatism (PA) Mr Trump claimed a secretive network of powerful officials and state institutes the deep state plotted to thwart his aims. Critics dismissed it as a conspiracy theory aimed at blaming others for his failings. Ms Truss said: In too much of the free world, the left has been in charge for too long and the results are all too plain to see. Their agents are only too active in public and private institutions and what we have come to know as the administrative state and the deep state. She said she had seen it for herself first hand as the unnamed figures and bodies sabotaged my efforts in Britain to cut taxes, reduce the size of government and restore democratic accountability. Her brief period in No 10 is best remembered for her catastrophic mini-Budget which sent the pound into a nose dive and sparked a crash in the markets. Sunak reveals response to Truss being outlasted by lettuce: 'Country was in tough spot' In her opinion piece, Ms Truss appeared to all but endorse Mr Trumps bid for re-election. Going even so far as to claim that left-wing elites will be aided and abetted by our enemies in China, Iran and Russia to undermine Western societies from within, Ms Truss continued: In a vital election year for the US, it is why we don't just need a conservative in the White House. We need one who is able to take on the deep rot of the deep state and lead the free world. Her provocative comments are likely to attract ridicule from detractors who say she proved a reckless and incompetent prime minister, whose policies caused peoples mortgage repayments to soar. But her allies insist her policies have since been proven right and many Tories believe Ms Truss harbours aims of regaining the Tory leadership when Rishi Sunak leaves office, despite lasting just 49 days in Downing Street before being forced to step down. The failed PM is striving to place herself at the forefront of a new brand of right-wing politics, recently lauching her so-called Popular Conservatism movement and now travelling to Washington, DC, where she is due to give a speech at the Republican CPAC event on Thursday. Mr Trump is also due to speak at the event, alongside MyPillow chief executive Mike Lindell, politician Tulsi Gabbard and Steve Bannon. The news that one of the UKs proud arsenal of nuclear-capable missiles fell harmlessly into the Atlantic during testing comes as a further embarrassment to the Ministry of Defence. In recent weeks, the British public, increasingly alarmed at the behaviour of Vladimir Putin, has learnt that the army stands at its lowest strength since the Napoleonic wars, that both of our otherwise magnificent aircraft carriers have trouble getting seaborne, that one of our warships crashed into another because of faulty wiring, and that Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw the US commitment to Nato. Even the special forces, the finest of their kind in the world, are now being accused of war crimes in Afghanistan. Its not inspiring confidence... 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 row between the former Post Office chair and the government has deepened, with a top civil servant responding to accusations that she told him not to rip off the Band-Aid in relation to compensation payments to subpostmasters. After business secretary Kemi Badenoch accused Henry Staunton of lying when he said he had been told to stall compensation payouts for postmasters affected by the Horizon scandal, Mr Staunton unearthed a memo in which he had recorded the instruction. It revealed that Sarah Munby, who was then the business departments permanent secretary, had warned Mr Staunton that politicians do not necessarily like to confront reality and that now was not the time for dealing with long-term issues. However, on Wednesday evening, Ms Munby denied telling Mr Staunton to delay payments. In a letter published by the government, she said the claims were false and that the discussion had been focused on the commercial side of the business. The revelation raises questions about Kemi Badenochs denial of Henry Stauntons claim and her decision to accuse him of lying (PA/Getty/Sky News) The contemporaneous note of their first meeting on 5 January last year, revealed by The Times, also raised questions about Ms Badenochs denial of Mr Stauntons claim and her decision to accuse him of lying. It emerged after she told the Commons there was no evidence whatsoever to support his account and branded it a blatant attempt to seek revenge for his sacking. In her own defence, Ms Munby wrote: It is not true that I made any instruction, either explicitly or implicitly, to Mr Staunton to in any way delay compensation payments. I did not. Neither Mr Stauntons note, nor the contemporaneous note that my office made, suggest otherwise. At Prime Ministers Questions, Rishi Sunak sidestepped calls to repeat Ms Badenochs claims that the former Post Office chair was lying, as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called for an investigation into whether the government had sought to delay the payments. When asked by Sir Keir if he would say Mr Staunton had lied, Mr Sunak replied: As the business secretary said on Monday, she asked Henry Staunton to step down after serious concerns were raised. She set out the reasons for this and the full background in the House earlier this week. The emergence of the note will also add to pressure on the government to set a deadline date for payments to wronged postmasters something that the chair of the business and trade committee, Liam Byrne, has called for. And it came as Ms Badenoch was plunged into a separate political row over a claim that she is engaged in trade talks with Canada, which Canada has denied. The business secretary told MPs explicitly last month that talks with Canada were ongoing, as a March cliff-edge for British carmakers approaches. But the Canadian high commissioner to the UK, Ralph Goodale, wrote to the House of Commons business select committee to insist that such talks had not taken place, the Financial Times reported. The row between Mr Staunton and Ms Badenoch erupted when Mr Staunton gave an explosive interview to The Sunday Times in which he said he had been told to stall on compensation for subpostmasters ahead of the general election. Mr Staunton, who was ousted last month after less than a year in the role, said he had been told the delay was to allow the Tories to limp into the vote. But Ms Badenoch hit back, accusing him of lies, and said he had been removed from his post because of concerns over his conduct. She also claimed he was being investigated over bullying allegations before he was fired as chair, and that concerns had been raised about his willingness to cooperate with the investigation. At PMQs, Sir Keir said he hoped Mr Sunak would instigate that investigation into what was said on Monday, because one of the features of this miscarriage [of justice] is that where concerns have been raised they have been pushed to one side. The Horizon scandal saw more than 700 postmasters handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 after Fujitsus faulty Horizon system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches. Toby Jones as hero Alan Bates in the ITV drama about the Post Office scandal, which thrust it into public attention (ITV) Mr Stauntons note, as reported by The Times, recounts him telling Ms Munby a month after taking his post that he had been on over a dozen public company boards and not seen one with so many challenges. She was sympathetic to his arguments, but said that politicians do not necessarily like to confront reality, adding that in the run-up to a general election there was no appetite to rip off the Band-Aid. The note suggests Ms Munby was referring to the overall finances of the Post Office, but Mr Staunton said the two biggest spending items were compensation payments and replacing the Horizon system. Ms Munby wrote in her letter: I am able to give you the very strongest reassurance ... that I did not at any point suggest to Mr Staunton, or imply to him in any way whatsoever, that there should be [a] delay to compensation payments for postmasters. None of this discussion about short-term and long-term issues related to compensation payments, she added. The Liberal Democrats demanded an investigation be carried out by the governments ethics adviser, suggesting that Ms Badenoch may have breached the ministerial code. Deputy leader Daisy Cooper said: Time and again Conservative ministers have undermined the integrity of our politics. Now, this row embroiling Kemi Badenoch raises a whole series of new questions to which we urgently need answers. If Badenoch misled parliament then she clearly breached the ministerial code. Subpostmasters who are at the heart of this whole scandal deserve justice, financial redress and the truth. 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 Tories have dubbed him Sir Softy on crime but the Conservatives would have reappointed Keir Starmer as the countrys top prosecutor, a new biography reveals. While the future Labour leader decided to leave to become an MP instead, the revelation appears to fly in the face of Tory attacks on his record as the head of the Crown Prosecution Service. Last year, Rishi Sunak accused Sir Keir of being uncomfortable tackling grooming gangs, saying: Thats why they call him Sir Softy soft on crime, soft on criminals. But a new book by journalist turned ex-Labour spin doctor Tom Baldwin suggests his term as DPP [director of public prosecutions] was judged to be very successful by the Tory government. Despite controversial attempts by Conservative MP to attack Sir Keir over the prosecution of grooming gangs, Keir Starmer: The Biography notes Tory ministers signed off on a cross-party report commending the work he did on the scandals. Keir Starmer was taken out to dinner by the then home secretary Theresa May to thank him for his tenure leading the Crown Prosecution Service, according to a new biography (Dan Kitwood/PA) Home secretary Theresa May even took Sir Keir out to dinner to thank him for his service, the book says, while the then attorney general Dominic Grieve described the soon-to-be Labour MP as one of the most successful directors of recent years at his leaving party. Although he rebuked Sir Keir at the start of his tenure of DPP for being too political, Mr Grieve who had the Tory whip removed by Boris Johnson after voting against his Brexit deal is quoted describing him as highly effective and someone who always behaved with great integrity. Sir Keir had made clear he would not seek a second term as DPP but Mr Grieve said: I would definitely have reappointed him, of course I would. And I dont think anyone else in government would have had any basis for taking a contrary view. For them to turn around now and attempt to muckrake his time as DPP is really infantile behaviour, completely unjustified and just a load of rubbish. It wont work and I fear attacking public servants in this way will backfire badly on the Conservative Party. If he becomes prime minister, the Labour leader may return Mr Grieves compliment by implementing measures to clean up politics he has drawn up as chair of a cross-party commission, the UK Governance Project. Sir Keir is looking carefully at its proposals, which include limiting the prime ministers power to hand out peerages and honours, a tougher ministerial code, and beefing up the advisory committee on business appointments for former ministers and civil servants. Sunak allies told The Independent they would not be deflected from subjecting Sir Keirs record to scrutiny. One said he made his DPP tenure fair game by allowing Labour to run a controversial attack ad claiming the prime minister did not think paedophiles should be jailed. Since becoming Labour leader, the Tories have sought to attack Sir Keirs record as DPP while he has instead sought to use it to bolster his political credentials as being tough on crime. Starmer is pictured as a high-flying QC outside the Royal Courts of Justice in 2006 (Family handout/Harper Collins) Mr Sunak told the Commons last April: He [Sir Keir] attended 21 sentencing council meetings that watered down punishments. Thats why they call him Sir Softy. Soft on crime. Soft on criminals. However, Tory attacks misfired when Boris Johnson blamed Sir Keir for the CPSs failure to prosecute the paedophile and TV celebrity Jimmy Savile, even though he was not involved in the decision. One of Mr Johnsons advisers resigned over his failure to issue an apology over remarks about the treatment of Savile, which were criticised by Mr Sunak at the time. The Tories are also turning their guns on Sir Keirs work as a human rights lawyer before he became DPP, when those he represented included the now-banned Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir. It was not proscribed as a terrorist organisation until last month. A member of the shadow cabinet told The Independent that Sir Keirs record at the DPP, such as his prosecution of terrorists, was a huge asset and accused the Tories of trying to divert attention from their woeful record on crime. As recently as January, there were demands for Sir Keir to apologise for failing to intervene against private prosecutions brought by the Post Office against subpostmasters during the Horizon scandal, despite him not having the power to do so, according to the new book. In the biography, Sir Keir is quoted as telling Baldwin: Im not saying we never made a mistake because, of course, there will be poor decisions in an organisation dealing with hundreds of thousands of cases. But I never took one in bad faith. I certainly dont lie awake at night worrying they will find a file where I said, Dont prosecute him because hes my mate or something because it just doesnt exist. 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 }} An Alabama Supreme Court ruling that classified frozen embryos as children under state law has left fertility doctors terrified and may force clinics to close their doors, campaigners have warned. In a decision that could have profound consequences for both patients seeking fertility care and the medical professionals that provide it, the states highest court allowed for a wrongful death lawsuit to be brought over the destruction of frozen embryos in an incident at an Alabama clinic in 2020. By classifying the frozen embryos as unborn children in their ruling, the justices opened the way for the plaintiffs in the lawsuit three couples whose fertilised embryos were destroyed to seek damages from the clinic for wrongful death. That ruling may force clinics that provide in vitro fertilisation, or IVF, treatment to close over fears of being held liable for any damage to embryos during the freezing process, according to Sean Tipton, policy officer with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Physicians and the other staff at the infertility clinics in Alabama are terrified, justifiably so, Mr Tipton told The Independent, after speaking with doctors in the state. If, right now, they provide state-of-the-art recommended care to their patients, theyre putting themselves and their businesses at incredible risk. The process of IVF often requires the fertilisation of many eggs to increase the chance that one will become a viable pregnancy. The embryo with the best chance of succeeding in the womb will be transferred, while the rest are usually frozen and kept in case the transfer fails or the patient wants to have another child. Pro-choice groups like the ASRM have warned that anti-abortion campaigners view the battle over embryos as their next fight, following a successful, decades-long campaign to overturn Roe v Wade. Clearly this is part of a very fierce anti-choice agenda in the state of Alabama. This is this is abortion politics through and through, Mr Tipton said of the ruling. I think this exposes the truth that the anti-choice argument is about controlling women and reproduction, not just about stopping abortion. The ultimate pro-life medical technology and it has been threatened by this ruling, he added. Overturning a lower court decision that classified the case as a property dispute, Alabama Justice Jay Mitchell wrote in the majority ruling last week that an 1872 state law allowing parents to sue over the death of a minor child also applied to embryos. Unborn children are children ... without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics, he wrote. The decision to classify frozen embryos as children raises a series of complicated questions about the legality of standard IVF processes in the state of Alabama. Usually, a clinic will be responsible for ensuring the decision of a patient who wants to keep, donate or destroy their embryos. The court ruling also raises the prospect that the case and cause of classifying embryos as children may be taken up in other states by anti-abortion campaigners, or in a federal court, which could threaten the medical treatment nationwide. In its ruling, the Alabama Supreme Court referred to anti-abortion language added to the states constitution in 2018, which made it the policy of the state to ensure the protection of the rights of the unborn child. In a concurring opinion to the ruling, Chief Justice Tom Parker quoted the Bible. Even before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory, Justice Parker said. The ruling may deter patients from seeking fertility treatment in the state over fears of what will happen to any embryos they freeze. 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 }} Ksenia Karelina had been looking forward to spending New Year's Eve with her family. Though she'd long ago chosen to settle in the USA, she'd kept in touch with her relatives back in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Instead, it appears that the 32-year-old dual citizen is confined in a Russian jail cell on charges of high treason all for allegedly sending $51.80 to a Ukrainian charity. "She's just that kind of person," Karelina's former mother-in-law Eleonara Srebroski, 56, tells The Independent. "If somebody needs help, she will be helping. Whether it's an animal, or a child, or a grown-up, she's the one who is always opening her heart and her wallet." According to Russian human rights activists, Karelina also known as Ksenia Khavana, after her first husband was arrested on public order charges in late January outside a cinema in Yekaterinburg, before being charged with treason this month. The country's notorious Federal Security Service (FSB) claimed in a statement this week that an unnamed woman, later identified by Russian media as Karelina, had been "proactively collecting funds" for the Ukrainian war effort. Now Srebroski has a stark message for the government and people of her former daughter-in-law's adopted nation. "If we do not do anything, she is going to die in jail," she says. "She does not have any hope to get out, because they do not have any justice [in Russia]. "And if we as a country do not help her to come back here, to where she is... we're going to lose a beautiful person." (Ksenia Karelina via Facebook) She is just sunshine Ksenia Karelina appeared in Srebroski's life back in 2012, when she visited the older woman's Baltimore home hand in hand with Srebroski's son Evgeny Khavana. The young woman had come to the USA from Russia on a work and travel programme, where she met Evgeny. As it happened, she and Srebroski originally came from the same region: the Ural mountains, of which Yekaterinburg is the district capital. Though Karelina and Evgeny married in 2013, the relationship didn't last, and she eventually moved to California. Still, they remained friends, and Karelina made an effort to keep in touch with Srebroski, reaching out for birthdays and other holidays. "She is the one who will never be rude to anyone. She is just sunshine; full of love, positivity, smiles, care," says Srebroski, who has lived in the US for 24 years. She refers to Karelina as "Ksyusha", the diminutive form of Ksenia. "I don't know anybody who would not like her. I'm actually the one who is supposed to dislike her, because she is my ex daughter-in-law. And I still adore her, because of her personality." Over the years, Karelina built a new life for herself out in Los Angeles. She worked at a luxury hotel spa in Beverly Hills, often posting joyful photos in Facebook. Having attended dance school as a child, she passionately pursued her hobby of ballet, and travelled keenly across the US and beyond. In 2021, she became a US citizen. "She's a very good friend," says Srebroski. "Funny, outgoing, sincere, kind. Smiling all the time, finding good in anything. "She was happy when she was selling fruit and vegetables off of a food stand here [in Baltimore] as a student... she will always be happy in any circumstances." Accused of petty hooliganism, then treason Karelina was meant to return from Russia by the beginning of February, having spent the new year with her parents, grandparents, and youngest sister. That is according to Srebroski, who has not spoken personally to Karelina in more than a year but says her son was in the loop about her travel plans. When he didn't hear from her, he was confused until the news broke about her arrest. Isabella Koretz, Karelina's boss at the Ciel Spa in Beverly Hills, gave a slightly different account of her travel plans, telling local broadcaster KTLA that her company became concerned when Karelina did not show up for work as planned in mid-January. Karalina celebrates her US citizenship in 2021 (Ksenia Karelina via Facebook/First Department) According to Russian media, Karelina was originally accused of "petty hooliganism". Court officials said she had used "coarse, obscene language in front of other citizens, and was behaving rudely and defiantly." The officials further claimed that she violently resisted arrest. On 29 January she was reportedly found guilty and sentenced to 14 days in jail. Things appeared to change after she filed a complaint about her arrest with the court. The FSB now claims that she donated money to Razom, a Ukrainian aid charity based in New York City, on the day of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The charity raises money for humanitarian aid and medical equipment, and its website says that it sometimes provides the latter to Ukrainian military units as well as civilian emergency services. Razom's chief executive Dora Chomiak told the New York Post that she was "appalled" by Karelina's arrest, and called on the US government to "do everything in its power" to secure her release, along with others who have been "unjustly detained". "Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly shown that he holds no sovereign border, foreign nationality, or international treaty above his own narrow interest. His regime attacks civil society activists who stand up for freedom and democracy," she said. If we dont help her, nobody else will Speaking to The Independent, Srebroski declines to discuss the details of Karelina's alleged donation, because she did not want to put her in danger. But she says Karelina had regularly donated to a wide range of GoFundMe pages and other charitable causes, including helping Srebroski herself when she was diagnosed with cancer 12 years ago. "She was keeping in touch with me to check how I'm doing, medically and physically, all the time, because she's just a very compassionate person. Very sincere, sympathetic," Srebroski said. Indeed, Karelina's Facebook page showed several posts linking to fundraising pages before it became inaccessible on Tuesday evening. Asked what message she would give to Karelina's captors, Srebroski says she has nothing because there is "no point". "I cannot talk to my family who are in Russia. They're brainwashed, they think we are enemies," she says. "I have a very hard time communicating with my sister and my childhood friends, because they think I'm a traitor since I myself support Ukraine. "So if I have to talk to the officials, what can I tell them that they don't already know? The whole country is covered with lies. They trust what they've been told on TV... they believe everything, even things that do not make any sense." She is scornful about American TV host Tucker Carlson's recent interview with Vladimir Putin, which even the Russian dictator criticised as too soft and whose release coincided, deliberately or otherwise, with Karelina's treason charges. The unexplained death in prison of famed opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week which supporters have blamed squarely on Putin underscores the potential consequences for those who defy the Russian government. For now, Srebroski says she wants to make as much noise as possible to bring attention to Karelina's plight. "Things are getting cruel there," she says. "I mean, it's been tough all the time, but now it's even more devastating and drastic. So I'm very concerned that she will go through a lot of physical abuse there... "If we do not help her as a country, because she's an American citizen, nobody else will." 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 }} Harvard University condemned what it called a flagrantly antisemitic cartoon that an undergraduate group posted on social media over the weekend. It also appeared on the Instagram account of Harvard Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine. Copied from a newsletter published by students in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, the image features a Black man and an Arab man with nooses around their necks, held by a hand imprinted with the Star of David that has a dollar sign in the middle of the star. The image was removed and the student and faculty groups apologized, but the post prompted a storm of criticism that Harvard isn't doing enough to protect its Jewish community. Perpetuating vile and hateful antisemitic tropes, or otherwise engaging in inflammatory rhetoric or sharing images that demean people on the basis of their identity, is precisely the opposite of what this moment demands of us, Alan Garber, Harvards interim president, said in a letter Monday to the school community. In a statement on Tuesday, the Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee and the African American Resistance Organization took responsibility for what they acknowledged is a harmful antisemitic trope. The image was copied from a Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee newsletter and included in an infographic urging Black and Arab people to unite in protest of Israels treatment of Palestinians. The inclusion of the offensive caricature was an unprompted, painful error a combination of ignorance and inadequate oversight, the student groups' statement said. It never should have been published to begin with. We wholeheartedly apologize for the immense harm we caused. The faculty and staff group also apologized after the infographic also appeared on its Instagram story, insisting that they stand against all forms of hate and bigotry, including antisemitism. We removed the content as soon as it came to our attention, the faculty and staff group wrote. We apologize for the hurt these images have caused and do not condone them in any way. Garber said the university is reviewing the matter to determine exactly who was responsible and what further steps are warranted. As members of an academic community, we can and we will disagree, sometimes vehemently, on matters of public concern and controversy, including hotly contested issues relating to the war in Israel and Gaza, and the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Garber continued. But it is grossly irresponsible and profoundly offensive when that disagreement devolves into forms of expression that demonize individuals because of their religion, race, nationality, or other aspects of their identity. Shabbos Kestenbaum, who joined a lawsuit filed by a group of Jewish students accusing Harvard of failing to keep them safe, reacted on X, formerly known as Twitter. With Professors like these, its easy to see why we Jewish students dont feel safe in class, he tweeted. The latest controversy comes as Harvard works to navigate the campus response to the Israel-Hamas war and comes after the resignation in January of its president Claudine Gay, who faced a backlash over her congressional testimony on antisemitism as well as plagiarism accusations. It has since announced separate task forces to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia and worked to provide documents to a congressional committee investigating antisemitism. On Friday, the House Education & the Workforce Committee announced it was serving several Harvard officials, including Garber, with a subpoena for failing to produce priority documents. I am extremely disappointed in the path that Harvard has chosen to take in the Committees investigation, the committee chairwoman, Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Republican from North Carolina, said in a statement. She acknowledged that Harvard has produced thousands of pages of documents, but complained that more than 40% were already public. "Quality not quantity is the Committees concern. Harvard responded that it has provided fulsome and good faith responses and said the supboenas were unwarranted. It promised to continue cooperating, while also "protecting the legitimate privacy, safety and security concerns of our community. The Oct. 7 Hamas attacks killed 1,200 people in Israel, mainly civilians, and abducted around 250 others. Roughly 130 hostages have yet to be recovered. Israel's military response has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, and has laid waste to most of the densely populated Gaza Strip. The war's fallout has roiled U.S. campuses and reignited a debate over free speech. College leaders have struggled to define where political speech crosses into harassment and discrimination, with both Jewish and Arab students calling on schools to do more to protect them. 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 top-ranking official with the United States Customs and Border Protection has opted to retire, following a suspension due to accusations of sexual misconduct. According to NBC News, Joel Martinez is accused of trying to pressure multiple female colleagues into having sex with him while he was working in the Laredo sector on the US-Mexico border in Texas. Sources told the outlet that multiple co-workers accused Mr Martinez of inappropriate behaviour, which included threats. The CBP official was promoted to be the acting deputy chief of the agency in January this year, but he was then suspended last week. At the time, it was not clear why he had been pulled from duty and he has since retired from the agency. A US Customs and Border Protection patch is seen on the arm of an agent in the Jacumba mountains on October 6, 2022 in Imperial County, California (AFP via Getty Images) A press release from June 2023 said Mr Martinez had worked for CBP for over 30 years when he took over as Chief of the Laredo Sector that month. In January 2023, another senior official - Tony Barker - resigned following an internal investigation into his interactions with female colleagues on government equipment. It was reported some of those communications were of a sexual nature. The CBPs Office of Professional Responsibility would typically investigate any potential wrongdoing by employees, but as Mr Martinez has opted to leave the agency, he would not be subjected to any professional repercussions from an investigation. If the OPR made a referral to the Department of Justice, then any accusations might be made public. CBP did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Independent on Wednesday, but in a statement released to NBC News a spokesperson said that the agency does not tolerate misconduct within our ranks. The agency falls under the US Department of Homeland Security, employing more than 60,000 people tasked with securing the countrys borders. 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 again attempted to pin his daughters murder on his estranged wife during closing arguments in his New Hampshiretrial. Montgomery, 34, is standing trial in Manchester for allegedly beating his five-year-old daughter Harmony to death back in December 2019. After two-and-a-half weeks and testimony from more than two dozen witnesses, the prosecution and the defence delivered their closing arguments on Wednesday morning. The defence rested its case without calling any witnesses, but told jurors to take testimony from Montgomerys estranged wife Kayla Montgomery with a grain of salt. Defence attorney Caroline Smith said that, while his client did horrible things to conceal Harmonys body, he did not kill his daughter. Adam did some very very bad things but he did not kill his daughter, Ms Smith told jurors. Can you put your trust for one of the most important decisions of your life, in Kayla? she asked. The police know that she is a liar, the state knows that she is a liar. She was charged with perjury for lying to a grand jury. The defence has argued throughout the trial that Harmony died under Kaylas care and that Montgomery only made plans to dispose of Harmonys body to protect his and Kaylas two infant sons. Wake up, baby girl, those were the words Kayla described Adam used, attorney Caroline Smith said. ...when he discovered [Harmony] unnaturally appeared to be asleep. And she never woke up again ... Those words were the truth, surrounded by Kaylas lies. She continued: Kayla decided to lie about Harmonys death. She had to lie because the truth would point to her. And her lies were accepted because Adam was accused of Kaylas black eye. Ms Smith pushed back against damning evidence introduced during the proceedings that Montgomery was physically abusive towards Harmony. Earlier this week, Judge Amy Messer denied a motion by the defence to toss Kaylas testimony from the trial, after she testified that Montgomery punched Harmony repeatedly in the head after he became enraged with her because she had soiled herself. Montgomery pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder in 2022 and proclaimed in court last year in an unrelated case that he did not kill his daughter. As his trial got underway in Manchester, his attorneys acknowledged he was guilty of two lesser charges of falsifying evidence and abusing a corpse. Montgomery, who is serving a 30-year prison sentence for an unrelated gun conviction, hasnt been attending his trial. Judge Amy Messer addresses defense and prosecution attorneys during the trial of the Adam Montgomery (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Montgomery and Harmonys mother, Crystal Sorey, were not in a relationship when Harmony was born in 2014. The child lived on and off with foster families and with her mother. Ms Sorey lost custody of Harmony in 2018, and Harmony was sent to live with her father in February 2019. Ms Sorey also took the stand and testified that she last saw her daughter during a FaceTime call around Easter of that year. Kayla has been the star witness at her estranged husbands murder trial. Kayla testified that her husband repeatedly punched Harmony in the head because the girl had wet herself. She said her family, including the couples two young sons, had been evicted and were living in a car at the time. According to Kayla, Adam punched Harmony at several stop lights as they drove from a methadone clinic to a fast food restaurant on the morning of 7 December 2019. She also testified about handing food to the children without checking on Harmony, the subsequent discovery that the girl was dead, and all the places she said her husband hid the body, including in a ceiling vent at a homeless shelter and the walk-in freezer at her husbands workplace. She is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to perjury for lying during grand jury testimony about where she was when Harmony was last seen alive. She was not given immunity, but she acknowledged to defence lawyers that she hasnt faced further consequences for inconsistencies in her various statements to police or prosecutors. 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 }} An Alaska woman who murdered her friend in the hope of a $9 million payoff has been jailed for 99 years. Denali Dakota Skye Brehmer, one of two young people charged in the 2019 killing of Alaska teenager Cynthia Hoffman in a murder-for-hire scheme, was jailed on Monday after pleading guilty in February 2023 to first-degree murder. Court documents showed that Brehmer was 18 when she and two other teens were catfished online by 21-year-old Darin Schilmiller, who pretended to be a millionaire named Tyler and offered the teens $9m for the rape and murder of someone in Alaska. He also asked the teens to send him photos and videos of the killing, according to court documents. Brehmer agreed to the offer, and enlisted the help of four friends, Caleb Leyland and Kayden McIntosh, along with two unnamed juveniles. Authorities accused Brehmer and her alleged accomplices of luring Hoffman to Thunderbird Falls in Chugiak, an unincorporated community in Anchorage, under the guise of a friendly hike. During the hike, Hoffman who thought of Brehmer as her best friend was duct-taped and shot in the back of the head and put into a river, officials said. Authorities added that the group had tried to burn Hoffmans body before sending her family a text that she had been dropped off elsewhere. Police found Hoffmans body one day after she was reported missing. Kayden McIntosh, who was 16 at the time, was charged with murder for allegedly shooting Hoffman in the head. His case is pending trial. Meanwhile, Brehmer was handed the maximum sentence for her role in the killing, according to the Alaska Department of Law. She may not have pulled the trigger, but this never would have happened it if it werent for Denali Brehmer, said Patrick McKay, Anchorage assistant district attorney, during sentencing. She executed Cynthia Hoffman in a murder-for-hire plot. She conspired with numerous other individuals in and outside of Alaska, including juveniles, forever altering everybodys life, he added. Anchorage Superior Court Judge Andrew Peterson called the killing tragic and senseless, adding that Brehmer showed no remorse. He said he hoped her sentence would serve as a deterrent to others. Darin Schilmiller of New Salisbury, Indiana, was also sentenced last month to 99 years in prison for his role in Hoffmans murder after being extradited to Alaska. Caleb Leyland pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in November. He is scheduled for sentencing on 10 June. 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 suspect has been charged in the death of Audrii Cunningham after the 11-year-olds body was found in a river in Texas on Tuesday. Don Steven McDougal, 42, was charged with capital murder of a person equal to more than 10 years old but less than 15 years old, a day after the missing 11-year-old girls body was found in the Trinity River in Livingston, Texas, about 10 miles from her home. The charge means he will be eligible for the death penalty. Authorities said Mr McDougal was already in custody on an unrelated aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge. Audriis body was found after she vanished on her way to school on 15 February around 7am. She was allegedly heading for her school bus stop, but school officials told police that she was never picked up and that she never arrived at school. Audrii Cunningham, 11, vanished on 15 February (Polk County Sheriffs Office) Mr McDougal was first named as a primary person of interest in the case before officials labeled him a suspect. Investigators believe he was a friend of Audriis father, and was allowed to live in a trailer behind the house where Cunningham lived with her father, grandparents, and other family. Court records from Brazoria County, south of Houston, show Mr McDougal was indicted on attempted indecency with a child nearly 17 years ago. However, he pleaded down to two felony counts of enticing a child stemming from a 2007 incident and was sentenced to two years in prison. The charge does not require sex offender registration. At a press conference on Tuesday, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said that in the past, Mr McDougal had taken Audrii to the bus stop or would take her to school if she missed the bus. Don Steven McDougal, 42, was charged with capital murder (Polk County Jail via AP) He added that Mr McDougal had admitted to leaving the house with Audrii the morning she disappeared but would not tell investigators what happened next. Following Audriis disappearance, the 42-year-old allegedly agreed to take investigators to several locations, including the Livingston Dam, where investigators discovered what they believe to be the girls backpack. Sheriff Lyons added that investigators were being very cautious with the information Mr McDougal gave them, but stressed that, at the time, he had not confessed to anything. However, police now believe they have enough evidence to connect him to Audriis disappearance, according to Sheriff Lyons. During the press conference, the sheriff said that officials had the Trinity River Authority lower water levels in order to find the 11-year-olds body. Authorities said Audriis body is with the medical examiners office to determine her cause of death. My heart aches with the news, and I express my deepest sympathies and condolences, Sheriff Lyons 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 }} The mother of a baby found dead stuffed into a plastic bag and left abandoned in a bathroom at an Arizona airport in 2005 has been taken into custody. On 10 October 2005, police responded to the Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport in Arizona, after the dead baby was found in a terminal four bathroom, authorities said at a Phoenix Police Department news conference on Tuesday. What they found was a horrific scene of a deceased female newborn, wrapped in newspapers and a white towel, and stuffed into a plastic bag with red Marriott letters on it. She just literally was welcomed into the world only to be murdered. It was just horrific, Troy Hillman, a retired cold case homicide detective with the Phoenix Police Department, told KPHO. Police at the time scoured nearby Marriott hotels in the Phoenix metro area, but they were unable to find any suspects. DNA evidence collected from the scene, identified to be that of the mothers, was entered into a combined DNA index, which runs suspect DNA against other suspects, yet no matches were found. The baby was seen by a medical examiner, who ruled the death to be homicide by suffocation. Evidence at the scene indicated that the birth likely did not occur at the airport; instead, the bathroom was where the baby was abandoned by the suspect or suspects, Phoenix police Lieutenant James Hester said during the news conference. After all leads were exhausted, the case was eventually passed on to the cold case homicide unit, and became to be known as the Baby Skylar Homicide Case. Around 2019, police started to work with the FBI Violent Crime Task Force, and their collaboration resulted in the identification of the mother of the victim, who is also the suspect. Supervisory Special Agent Dan Horan for the FBI Phoenix field office said that investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) was used in the case, which takes unknown crime scene DNA and traditional genealogy research to generate leads. Investigators used publicly available genealogy databases to identify family member matches to an unknown profile. Mr Horan said that a member of the family tree consented to give a sample for the investigation. Eventually, police were able to identify the suspect, and the mother of the newborn, as 51-year-old Annie Anderson. Authorities spoke to Ms Anderson, who identified herself as the mother of the victim and provided an account of what happened, and was arrested for the homicide of baby Skylar. Authorities said she was in the airport on business for a real estate boot camp. The father is known to authorities, but they said they have no reason to suspect he has criminal culpability. Ms Anderson is in custody in the state of Washington on an arrest warrant related to this investigation and is awaiting extradition to be formally charged in Arizona. 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 }} Power. Money. Sex. These are the three things that prosecutors say drove Lori Vallow to kill. And theyre also the three things that experts say make up the playbook of a destructive cult. All cult leaders are driven by those three things in that particular order, Steve Hassan, a world-renowned cult expert and former member of the Moonies cult, tells The Independent. Power is number one, then two its money which is also used for control, and three is sex. Its the playbook of a cult leader. Vallow soon earned the nickname the cult mom not long after her two youngest children Tylee Ryan, 16, and Joshua JJ Vallow, 7, disappeared in September 2019. As the childrens other family members desperately searched for them and begged Vallow to come clean about where they were details about her doomsday cult beliefs began to emerge. The 50-year-old mother-of-three had grown up in the Church of the Latter-day Saints (LDS) but, since meeting her new lover Chad Daybell, her beliefs had grown ever more extreme. She believed she and Mr Daybell had been chosen for a religious mission to lead the 144,000 followers that he was a prophet and she a goddess. Her murder trial - which ended in a conviction for killing the kids and conspiring to kill Mr Daybells first wife Tammy - exposed how these beliefs grew increasingly fantastical and dangerous, invoking zombies, dark spirits and death. Cult mom At the trial, prosecutors said that Vallow, Mr Daybell and their inner circle believed in a rating system of light and dark with certain death percentages for how they ranked the spirits of the people around them. Over time, this then evolved into the belief that some people had become zombies. And that the only way to get rid of the zombie was to destroy the human body it was in. Shockingly, this included her two children. Before their disappearances, Vallow had told friends that they had been taken over by dark spirits, and that Tylee was possessed by a demon named Hillary, according to courtroom testimony. Chilling text messages sent to Mr Daybell revealed her complaining that: We r both so tired of taking care of demons. We are weary. Please ask the Lord to take them. One month later, the children vanished. It would be nine months later before both of their remains were discovered in the pet cemetery of Mr Daybells yard in Idaho. Their final moments had clearly been brutal. Lori Vallow talks with her lawyers before the jurys verdict is read at her murder trial (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Little JJ, still in his pyjamas, had been suffocated with a plastic bag wrapped around his head with tape, the scratch marks on his neck revealing the young boy desperately fought for his life. Tylees cause of death may never be known as her body was hacked into pieces with a pickaxe and badly burned. At her trial, a jury found Vallow guilty of murder and conspiracy to murder Tylee and JJ, after hearing how she, Mr Daybell (who is yet to stand trial) and Vallows brother Alex Cox (who is also now dead) conspired to kill them. But the children werent the only victims as Vallows descent into extreme cult beliefs led to a trail of death and destruction in her wake. Mr Daybells first wife Tammy and Vallows fourth husband Charles are also dead, while others who testified to being shot at appear to have had a lucky escape. Its a tragic and shocking case that has horrified America for the last three years because of, not only the brutality of the murders, but the unanswered questions that remain around the role cult beliefs played in what happened. After all, this was a woman who, by all accounts, had long been seen as a good and loving mother to her children. Can a mother really be driven to kill her own two children children she has raised and cared for their whole lives by the power of a cult? Can cult beliefs really wield that much power? Power of cults Many of the most infamous cults have ended in murder or mass death. The Manson Family murdered nine victims under the direction of their leader Charles Manson. More than 918 people died in the Jonestown massacre. A total of 39 Heavens Gate followers took their own lives under the belief that they would be beamed up to an alien spacecraft. Dr Hassan knows the power a cult can have on a person all too well. Back in 1974, the then-19-year-old was recruited into the Unification Church also known as the Moonies cult. Under the cults leader Sun Myung Moon, he quit college and his job, handed over his bank account and believed his family were Satanic. Tylee Ryan and Joshua JJ Vallow (Family handout) I became a different person in the image of Moon and believed that the old Steve had fallen and was Satanic and that armageddon would happen, he tells The Independent. For about two and a half years, there was no getting away. Then, when he fell asleep at the wheel of a van due to sleep deprivation and nearly died, it actually saved him. While spending two weeks in a hospital bed recovering from his injuries away from the cults direct influence his family arranged a deprogramming intervention. At the end of it, I realised that Moon was a liar and if he was a liar then he wasnt trustworthy and if he wasnt trustworthy he couldnt be god on earth and my whole belief system collapsed, he says. At the point that I had that realisation, I cried and said how did they do this to me? How could I believe these crazy things and turn my back on my friends and family? But its this thinking that only certain types of people can be drawn into a cult or cult beliefs which can be dangerous, he says. The public has unconscious bias that says when people try to understand other peoples behaviour they tend to overestimate the persons personality and underestimate the power of the situation, explains Dr Hassan. So people think oh Steve must have got into the Moonies because his family were not nice, or he was looking for something in his life or something. He adds: The biggest vulnerability is thinking that it could never happen to you. Breaking down sense of identity Dr Hassan explains that cults work by breaking down an individuals sense of identity. Undue influence has been exerted in a systematic way to break down a persons sense of identity and build them back up in the image of their cult leader, he says. Steven Hassan left the Moonies aged 22, and has since become a leading expert on cults and mind control (Supplied) Wed like to believe that were rational beings but were not. Were emotional, social beings and we adapt to our environment to the information we receive from our environment. Dr Hassan says that there are four components to what he describes as a destructive mind control cult: behaviour, information, thought, and emotional control. Together, this creates dependency or obedience to the cult leader or cause, he explains. In Vallows case, her progression towards more extreme beliefs didnt happen in a vacuum, he says. Vallow and Mr Daybell had already grown up in the Church of the LDS. Mr Daybell was a self-published author who wrote doomsday books loosely based on the teachings of the church and also ran a podcast based on his teachings. He claimed that he was a prophet. Vallow always really took the church seriously, says her brother Adam Cox in his new podcast Tylee and JJs Silver Linings Podcast with his uncle Rex. Mr Cox says his sister was fun growing up and that her marriage to Charles Vallow seemed great. But, he says that in the lead-up to all the death and destruction, she had started to see herself as more spiritual. It just feels like she started to pull away spiritually from where Charles was her idea of spirituality, he says. With Lori going down that road it was like a snowball she just kept on picking up different stuff and different stuff and different stuff she wanted to convince people the end of the world was coming she was doing food storage every moment it was getting bigger and bigger. One question he says he is still trying to work out the answer to is who was the ringleader in Vallow and Mr Daybells relationship. Leader or follower? People ask was Lori brainwashed by Chad or Chad by Lori? he says. Based on what Dr Hassan has seen about the case, he is also torn about who is likely the cult leader in this scenario. Mr Daybell appears the obvious choice as someone who referred to himself as a prophet and given that, before the murders, Vallow was said to be a good mother who loved her children and that things started getting crazy and weird after she met Mr Daybell. But, based on other information that came out at trial, a different picture of Vallow has also emerged one of a woman lacking empathy and being focused on transactional things and how they can help her, says Dr Hassan. Chad Daybell at a court hearing (Post Register) That profile of her as a malignant narcissist is characteristic of a cult leader, he says. They are narcissists who think theyre above the law, pathological liars, sadistic, paranoid. So if Lori is a narcissist and lacks empathy and then she meets Chad and theyre convinced they have a sacred mission together how much was she influenced by him and how much was he influenced by her? My guess and its just speculation is that if the Lori before Chad loved her kids and was a pretty good mom and wanted to do good choices for them then what would lead her to agree to kill them or think theyre possessed? We have to look at what are the sources of influence? Chad is an obvious choice. Its an argument Vallows attorneys tried to push in their closing statement at her trial, arguing that she was a good mom whose life fell apart after meeting religious leader Mr Daybell. One year after meeting Chad, four people are dead, her attorney told jurors. Why cant people escape religious leaders? Why cant Lori escape and get back to her good mom life?... But is Lori a leader or a follower of Chad? She so wants to be a leader but shes not leading anyone. Leader or follower, brainwashed or brainwasher, it doesnt change her accountability for the fact that children JJ and Tylee and mother-of-five Tammy are now dead. If Lori truly believed she was on a mission from god and that they were all zombies and the kids werent her kids anymore but were just demons in their bodies, then she may have thought she was not killing her kids, says Dr Hassan. [But] if she was involved in killing her children then she is guilty are there aggravating circumstances? Maybe but shes still guilty. Yet, there are other questions around the power that cult beliefs may have played in Vallows killer prowess. While her bizarre cult beliefs were laid out at trial, so too was the level of planning and conspiring that went into the murders. On the one hand, Vallow appeared to be preparing for the end of the world based on her bizarre doomsday beliefs. On the other, she was researching life insurance policies for her children, stealing their social security and survivor benefits and preparing to embark on a new life in Hawaii with Mr Daybell. In the month before Tylees murder, trial testimony showed that the teens social security benefits were changed to be payable into her mothers bank account instead of her own and the mother and daughter then opened a joint account. Lori Vallow smiles as she leaves a court hearing (AP) Less than a month later, Tylee was dead with all the funds now going straight to her mother. A similar pattern then unfolded in the days leading up to JJs murder. Following their murders, the couple then eloped to Hawaii and got married on a beach a wedding that online searches reveal they had been planning for at least six months (when Tammy was alive and well). It all comes back to those three key components of the cult playbook. As prosecutors said in both opening and closing statements of her murder trial: Money, power, and sex thats what this case is about. Whether that involves Vallow being under the spell of a cult, being a narcissistic cult leader or simply the drive of her own conscious desires is still a mystery. This piece was originally published in August 2023 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 a Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade shooting suspect started a GoFundMe for her son, who was hospitalised after the shocking incident. Teneal Burnside reportedly launched a GoFundMe campaign for Lyndell Mays, who was charged this week in connection with the Valentines Day shooting that killed one person and injured 22 others. The GoFundMe has since been deleted, The New York Postreported. Screenshots captured by DailyMail.com show that Ms Burnside identified herself as the parent of Mr Mays, asking for funds to help pay his medical bills. At the time the GoFundMe was posted, Ms Burnside wrote that her son was in the intensive care unit recovering from multiple gunshot wounds sustained during the parade. Hes in the ICU fighting for a recovery from several surgeries, from going to the Chiefs Super Bowl celebration with his older sister, the GoFundMe page read, per the outlet. The Independent has contacted GoFundMe for comment and has attempted to contact Ms Burnside using information found in public records. Mr Mays is now being held on a $1m bond after prosecutors in Jackson County, Missouri, charged him with second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action. Officials believe Mr Mays had no previous history with these people, prosecutor Jean Peters-Baker said at a press conference on Tuesday. Mr Mays pulled his firearm first, Ms Peters-Bakers said, while others followed quickly. He was shot and injured in the incident. Police interviewed Mr Mays while he was in the hospital. Court documents reveal that Mr Mays admitted to police that he drew a gun first, in a crowd of people with kids, picked one of the individuals in the group at random, and started shooting. He told police he did so because one person said: Im going to get you. Mr Mays told police he thought that this meant: Im going to kill you. Stupid, man, Mr Mays told police. Just pulled a gun out and started shooting. I shouldnt have done that. Just being stupid. The Daily Mail reported that they spoke to Mr Mays sister, whom they did not name in their report. She defended her brother, according to the outlet. For them to make my brother out to be a monster, it really hurts me inside because he was only trying to protect us, she reportedly told The Daily Mail. Officials charged Mr Mays alongside Dominic Miller, who faces the same charges. Mr Miller may have fired the shot that killed 43-year-old Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a mother of two and beloved local radio DJ, Ms Peters-Baker told reporters. Mr Miller told police he had fired his weapon four to five times after someone pointed their handgun at him during the fight. During Ms Lopez-Galvans autopsy, officials recovered a bullet that a ballistic comparison revealed came from Mr Millers gun. 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 }} For more than four years, the world watched a frantic search for Lori Vallows children, the tragic discovery of their bodies buried in her new husbands backyard, and ultimately, her conviction. Now, two lesser-known victims in the case have their shot at justice. The so-called doomsday cult mom, 50, was arraigned in December on murder charges relating to the 2019 shooting death of her fourth husband Charles Vallow and an attempt on the life of her nieces ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux, in Arizona. Her trial is scheduled to begin on 1 August, but Judge Justin Beresky said it may not be a realistic start date given the substantial amount of evidence. Weve waited over four horrific years for her [Lori Vallow] to face trial of murdering my sweet, kind, generous, loving and dearest brother Charles Vallow. Your justice is finally coming, Charles sister Kay Woodcock wrote on social media after Lori was extradited from Idaho to Arizona in late November. Charles and Lori Vallow pictured together. Lori is charged with conspiracy to murder Charles in Arizona (Provided) Ms Woodcock, who was also the grandmother of Loris slain seven-year-old son JJ Vallow, has been fighting for justice for years. Another huge step forward! We are grateful those justice wheels do indeed turn, she wrote. Charles death was the first step in a wider plot by Lori and her current husband, alleged cult leader Chad Daybell, to rid their lives of obstacles as they termed their spouses and her children, according to text message evidence presented at her trial last year for the murders of young JJ and 16-year-old Tylee Ryan. In May 2023, Lori was found guilty of the childrens murders and of conspiring to kill her husbands former wife, Tammy Daybell. She was sentenced to three life terms. Now, the saga that has gripped the nation since Tylee and JJ went missing in 2019 is taking another major turn. The spotlight has shifted to Arizona, the site of an earlier chapter in the trail of death allegedly left by Lori and Chad during their plunge into dangerous Doomsday beliefs. Lori Vallow appears in court for arraignment Lori Vallows return to Arizona Lori will be tried in two separate cases in Arizona on two counts of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, according to indictments unsealed shortly after extradition. In one case, court records show that Lori, along with her brother Alex Cox, are accused of conspiring to kill her former husband Charles, who was shot and killed in July 2019. In the months leading up to his death, Charles told local police he was concerned that Lori may hurt him or their children. In the second case, Lori and Cox are accused of trying to kill her nieces ex-husband, Mr Boudreaux, outside his home in Gilbert, Arizona, in October 2019. He survived the drive-by shooting. A grand jury indicted Lori on the conspiracy charges for Charles death in 2021. However, she had to face charges in the deaths of her kids and Tammy Daybell in Idaho before she could face a judge in Arizona. Lori is not able to bond out of jail because she is in Arizona on extradition warrants. After both cases are done in Maricopa County, shell have to go back to Idaho to continue serving those life sentences. At Loris arraignment, the judge entered not-guilty pleas on both charges on her behalf. The case was originally slated to go to trial on 4 April but has now been pushed back after being labelled complex. If it had started on 4 April, it would be just three days after Loris alleged cult leader husband Chads trial is set to begin in Idaho. He faces the same murder charges Lori was convicted of earlier this year. In February, a smiling Lori sauntered into her scheduling conference in a Maricopa County Courtroom and asked for permission to not appear at her next hearing. Judge Beresky allowed Lori to waive her right to appear on the day of that hearing, which was set for 24 April at 8.30am. A large amount of discovery is about to be disclosed approximately 88,000 pages of discovery. I imagine thats going to take some time for the defense to get through, Judge Beresky added. The defence also told the court that they are waiting for 20 terabytes of data to be turned over. Charles Vallow: Loris fourth husband killed two months before children vanished Lori, now 50, was once a beautician by trade, a mother of three, and a wife five times over. Two of them are dead and her current husband, Mr Daybell, could face the death penalty if hes convicted at his murder trial next spring. Her first marriage, to a high school sweetheart when she was just 19, ended quickly. She married again in her early 20s, and had a son named Colby before divorcing. In 2001, Lori married again, this time to a man named Joseph Ryan. The couple had a baby girl named Tylee in 2002 but divorced just a few years later. Ryan later died in his home of a suspected heart attack. Charles, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, entered the picture several months later. Lori joined the LDS church and the pair married in 2006. They later adopted Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow. Charles Vallow (Leland Vallow Obituary) But by 2019, that marriage had also soured. Charles filed for divorce, contending in court papers that Lori also believed herself to be a deity tasked with helping to usher in the Biblical apocalypse. That year was the last time Lori was in Arizona until November when she was extradited there to face charges in Charles murder. In 2019, Lori lived in the Phoenix suburb of Chandler with her children Tylee and JJ. She was married to her fourth husband Charles, but he had filed for a divorce in February of that year based on claims that her religious beliefs were devolving into something far more sinister. In one filing, he wrote that Lori had claimed to be a goddess sent to usher in the Biblical apocalypse. He had also allegedly expressed concerns that Lori was cheating on him with Chad, who shared her extreme beliefs. Prior to Loris trial, police had released body-camera footage showing a concerned Charles reporting to detectives that his wifes fanatical religious views had escalated, that she had become unhinged and was worried she might try to hurt him or the children. He had called Gilbert Police in January 2019 after he was unable to speak to his two kids for a few days. He told the responding officer about the alarming beliefs his wife was sharing. Shes not here, Charles said in the video. She lost her reality. Charles then explained to the officers that Lori considered herself a translated being and a God who spoke with an ancient prophet and Jesus Christ daily. The religious views had been growing over the years, but had become more extreme and dangerous, he said. He said Lori told him a man named Nick Schneider had taken over his body and she would have to kill him. I can murder you now with my powers, she had told him, according to Charles, which prompted him to call the police for fear of his own safety and the safety of Tylee and JJ. I love her to death. This is killing me, officer, Charles said. Despite the imminent end to their marriage, Charles and Lori were tied together by their adoptive son, JJ. Months before Charles was killed, Lori had called him and told him to take the kids. He was on a business trip in Houston at the time. When he returned, his truck was not at the airport and Lori had thrown out all of his clothes and drained their bank account. More bodycam footage shows officers with him at the house, kicking in the door. They had an order to pick Lori up for a mental health exam and to check on the children. The only reason why were here is some of the statements that you made towards our dispatcher that you provided to them he (an officer) made the discussion to conduct the welfare check to make sure your children are safe, an officer said. No crime had not been committed, so the police left. On 11 July, Charles went to Loris home for a custody exchange that turned deadly when he was shot by her brother, Alex Cox, at a home in Chandler, Arizona. Cox told police he acted in self-defence, and he was never charged. He died suddenly aged 51 on 11 December 2019 hours after Tammys body was exhumed. His death was also ruled natural causes, with indications of a blood clot wedged in the arteries of his lungs. However, the overdose drug Narcan was also found in his system. Meanwhile, Lori and her kids had moved to Idaho shortly after Charles died. At her murder trial, prosecutors said she made the move to be closer to her then-boyfriend Mr Daybell so they could continue their plot to remove any obstacle to their happiness. Weeks after JJ and Tylee vanished without being reported missing by their mother, another member of the family faced an attack back in Arizona. Brandon Boudreaux: Ex-husband of Loris niece was targeted in drive-by shooting On 2 October, Brandon Boudreaux, the ex-husband of Loris niece, Melani Pawlowski, was targeted in a drive-by shooting outside his home in Gilbert. The bullet missed his head by mere inches. Melani Pawlowski (she remarried in November 2019 to Ian Pawlowski, who testified at Loris trial), was very close to Lori and believed in many of the same bizarre doomsday prophecies espoused by her and Mr Daybell. This ultimately ended her marriage to Mr Boudreaux with whom she shared custody of their five children. From evidence heard at Loris trial, it is apparent that he too was considered an obstacle and in their beliefs a dark spirit had possessed him. Google location data showed Alex Cox travelling to and from Gilbert, Arizona, from Idaho in early October 2019. Brandon Boudreaux is seen in a court sketch (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) On 2 October, an attempt was made on the life of Mr Boudreaux when he was shot at after returning home from the gym. He had earlier taken his older children to school and dropped the youngest off at Ms Pawlowskis home. The shots were fired from the back window of a grey Jeep Wrangler that had had its back spare tyre removed. Video footage from a storage facility in Idaho showed Mr Cox and Vallow placing the spare tyre in a storage facility the day before he drove south to Maricopa County and then taking it back out a few days later. When police were finally made aware of JJ and Tylees disappearance in November 2019 - weeks after the death of Chads first wife and his new marriage to Lori - Charles death and the alleged attempt on Mr Boudreauxs life became key points in the investigation. But it wasnt until June 2020 - shortly after the childrens bodies were found on Mr Daybells Idaho property - that Lori was charged with conspiring to kill Charles. Her indictment for conspiring to kill Mr Boudreaux came days after her murder conviction in May 2023. Mr Boudreaux gave heartbreaking testimony at Loris trial about the end of his marriage to Ms Pawlowski and broke down as he recalled having to be the person who identified JJ Vallows remains. Questions linger over Ms Pawlowskis involvement in the attempt on her former husbands life. She was present in court in Boise for Loris trial as her husband testified, but did not take the stand herself much to the surprise of those closely watching the case. Two women Zulena Pastenes and Melanie Gibb who were close to Lori and were involved in the strange rituals she conducted as part of their shared beliefs about the second coming did testify at her trial. Whats next for the Doomsday Mom? Jurors in Ada County Court in Boise, Idaho, took almost seven hours to find Lori guilty after hearing harrowing details about the doomsday moms path of deadly destruction and were shown graphic images of the murdered childrens remains. JJ, who had autism, had been smothered with a plastic bag taped over his face, his little body still dressed in a pair of red pyjamas. Tylees cause of death meanwhile has been impossible to establish as the teenagers dismembered, charred bones and body parts were found scattered in the ground on Mr Daybells pet cemetery. The state called over 60 witnesses to lay out its case that Lori was motivated by both her doomsday cult beliefs but also lust for Mr Daybell and financial greed when she conspired with him and her brother Cox to kill the three victims. During closing arguments, prosecutors argued that Lori had been driven by money, power and sex to kill the three victims. Since her sentencing in August, Lori has been incarcerated at the Pocatello Womens Correctional Center in Idaho. Now shes back in Arizona after being extradited from Idaho in order to face the additional murder conspiracy charges. Sheriff Paul Penzone said Lori was very chatty with deputies on the 18-hour drive from Idaho to Arizona in late November. I just understand that she was very sociable... talked the entire trip, Sheriff Penzone said. He did not give details on what was said but added he was not aware that she gave any specific statements related to the investigation. I just know she was very chatty. Lori is currently housed in the Estrella Jail and her next court date is set for 24 April 2024. 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 }} Federal investigators have asked a California county for numerous records related to some of the regions largest vineyards and their owners, but it remains unclear as to what they are actually investigating. News of the subpoenas sent to Napa County broke earlier this month, with around 40 names, businesses and topics listed as the information the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation would like to receive. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, many of those listed have a connection in some way to Alfredo Pedroza - a local politician who was wrapped up in a controversial winery plan over the past decade or so. Mr Pedroza, who is the Napa County Supervisor and is not named in the document, was caught up in a battle surrounding Walt Ranch and a proposal to turn the land into a vineyard. The controversy carried on for 17 years before proposals were abandoned in 2023, not long after approval. Investigators asked for information from the county relating to multiple names in California wine, including Caymus, Hall, Hundred Acre, and Alpha Omega. There is not necessarily a requirement for the individual companies or people to respond and some told local outlets they had not been approached by authorities. The owners of Hall, Craig and Kathryn Hall, purchased Walt Ranch in 2005 for $8m, according to The Chronicle. They wanted to redevelop the 2,300-acre patch of land into a vineyard, but environmentalists fought back and plans were in limbo for years. In 2022, a connection was made with Mr Pedroza, whose father-in-law, Esteban Llamas, had acquired a financial stake in the property next to the ranch and could therefore receive a financial benefit from the redevelopment. Mr Llamas is also listed on the subpoena. The Napa Valley Register, which originally obtained the subpoena, reported that no individuals have been accused of any wrongdoing but several had made donations to Mr Pedroza. Chuck Wagner, who owns Caymus and is also named on the list, has reportedly donated at least $14,800 to the politicians campaigns over the past three years. Two other subpoenas linked to the case relate to the redevelopment of the Napa Valley Airport and the Upper Valley Waste Management Agency. The request asked for documents dating back to 1st January 2016, which was the year Pedroza was elected as Supervisor and also the year the Walt Ranch redevelopment was initially approved. So far, Napa County has released some 170 records, most of which relate to the road projects around the planned vineyard. Requests for comment from Napa County and the FBI went unanswered on Tuesday. A spokesperson for the County told The Chronicle that the authority was aware of the investigation and did not know any more than what was in the subpoena. 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 widow of the former president of Haiti, Jovenel Moise, who was assassinated in July 2021, has been indicted in connection with his killing. A judge investigating the death of Moise indicted nearly 50 suspects in a 122-page ruling on Monday, including Martine Moise, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph and the former chief of Haitis National Police, Leon Charles, among others. Mr Charles, who now serves as Haitis permanent representative to the Organization of the American States, faces the most serious charges, including attempted murder; possession and illegal carrying of weapons; conspiracy against the internal security of the state; and criminal association. Meanwhile, Martine Moise was accused of conspiring with Mr Joseph to kill the president in order to replace him herself. Others including Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a Haitian-American pastor who visualized himself as Haitis next president, Joseph Vincent, a Haitian-American and former informant for the US Drug Enforcement Administration, and Dimitri Herard, presidential security chief, John Joel Joseph, a former Haitian senator, and Windelle Coq, a Haitian senator whom authorities say is a fugitive, were also charged. Eleven suspects have so far faced federal charges in the US for the killing of Moise, including Mr Sanon and Mr Vincent, who were extradited to the US. The US has insisted the case falls within its jurisdiction because part of the assassination plot was hatched in South Florida. Three have been sentenced in the US, including John Joel Joseph, who was sentenced to life in prison for his role in Moises death. Meanwhile, more than 40 suspects are being held in prison in Haiti awaiting trial. Jovenel Moise was assissinated in July 2021 (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The report released on Monday said authorities charged the suspects after they were able to discover the degree of participation and the role of each of the groups of delinquents who joined together under the influence of Machiavellian plans developed between authors, co-authors, accomplices and henchmen for the purposes of assassinating President Jovenel Moise. In the document, Judge Walther Wesser Voltaire ordered the arrest and trial of some 50 people involved in the gunning down of Moise at his private residence in July 2021. US prosecutors have previously said a group of about 20 assailants, most of them Colombian mercenaries, were involved in a plot to kidnap Moise and replace him with Christian Emmanuel Sanon. However, in the eleventh hour, the plan was changed to a plot to murder Moise. All the accused have now been referred to the criminal court to be judged on the facts of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, terrorism, assassination and complicity in assassination. The report added that the former first lady, who was wounded during the attack, gave statements so tainted by contradictions that they leave something to be desired and discredit her. Ms Moise has criticized what she calls unjust arrests on social media, while Claude Joseph previously told the Miami Herald newspaper that the presidents de facto successor, prime minister Ariel Henry, was weaponizing the Haitian justice system to persecute opponents in a classic coup detat. A spokesperson for the prime ministers office said the judge was independent and free to issue his order in accordance with the law and his conscience, according to reports. The indictments are expected to further destabilize Haiti as it struggles with a surge in gang violence and recovers from a spate of violent protests demanding the resignation of Mr Henry. No election has been held since Moises death, and no president has been appointed to replace him. Mr Henry postponed elections indefinitely, citing the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti in 2010 and the growing power of heavily armed criminal gangs, for which he has sought foreign aid. Gangs are now estimated to control most of the capital in Haiti. 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 }} In 2004, Ken Middleton made a decision that has cost him nearly two decades of freedom. After being convicted of killing his wife, a crime he maintains he did not commit, prosecutors offered him a deal: He had already spent 14 years in prison for her murder but if he took a plea deal, he would be able to walk free. Mr Middleton refused, determined to clear his name with a new trial and have his entire conviction overturned. Nineteen years later hes still waiting for that chance. Most innocent people would have taken that plea just to get out of prison, so I dont fault anyone for taking it who is innocent, his son Cliff Middleton told The Independent., But one thing I can tell you beyond any doubt whatsoever Every guilty person is going to take that plea. Mr Middleton insists his wife, Kathy Middleton, died by accident as she fumbled with a gun. For the last two decades, Mr Middleton, now 79, has been waiting for a trial that was promised to him and never delivered. Months after prosecutors plea offer, Judge Edith Louise Messina granted Mr Middleton a new trial after an evidentiary hearing in which Mr Middletons new counsel presented evidence that it would have been nearly impossible for him to shoot at the trajectory that his wife was shot. Prosecutors waited until Judge Messina ruled in favour of Mr Middletons request to then file a motion alleging that the judge did not have the jurisdiction to decide on the matter. We put on all this evidence and we win, Cliff told The Independent about the evidence suggesting his father is innocent of murdering his stepmother. And then [the prosecution] comes back and say, You did it in the wrong courtroom, and threw it all out, never addressing the merits that the judge ruled on in a 38-page order tossing out his conviction. Ken Middleton has always maintained his wife, Kathy Middleton, died by accident as she fumbled with a gun. He was convicted of murdering her in 1991, but the judge that presided over his convictio granted a new trial in 2008 (Family handout ) Ever since, Mr Middletons case has been tangled in the technicalities of a system that gave him a glimpse of hope in his fight for freedom and then took it away. Imagine after the Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl, and they said, Hold on a minute. We should have played it in California, not in Las Vegas and took away their Super Bowl, said Cliff. Thats the equivalent of what happened to us. Last year, Mr Middletons attorney filed legal documents arguing that Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker has failed to file an order to vacate Mr Middletons conviction under a 2021 law that allows the state to do so when evidence emerges that a convicted person may be innocent or may have been erroneously convicted. It is the same law that allowed Ms Baker to vacate Kevin Stricklands conviction . Mr Strickland was exonerated 43 years into a 50-year prison sentence for a triple homicide he did not commit. But the prosecutor has shown no interest in correcting the systems wrongs in Mr Middletons case. Ms Bakers office has not yet responded to The Independents request for comment. Its cruel and its wrong, Cliff said. After turning down his freedom, after [securing] a new trial. He has sat in prison, proven a wrongfully convicted man. And those years of injustice hurt. When I see people get out, they seem forgiving that justice finally worked, Cliff said. Theyre a different breed than I am because Ill never forget what the state of Missouri has done to my father and my family. A promise 19 years due In 2004, family members and friends of Ken Middleton sat in the gallery for his evidentiary hearing. There had been momentum building around the hearing, and Mr Middletons family spent a large sum to make sure this time he had a strong defence. The hearing was akin to a mini-trial, Cliff said, and by the end of it, Mr Middletons supporters believed they had reached a turning point. The Middleton family flew in forensic experts from out of state, and they had a new team of lawyers. They had their hopes set on a favourable ruling and it seemed like freedom was lurking around the corner. One of the arguments introduced by Mr Middletons defence was that the attorney who represented him during the trial had not presented a case at all. After he was arrested, Mr Middletons assets were frozen and he had to rely on the kindness of a close family friend who paid for his trial lawyer, Robert Duncan. Duncan was handling three death penalty cases along with Mr Middletons and was found to have left out facts critical to Mr Middletons case. He was later found to be ineffective and disbarred . During Mr Middletons trial, he did not raise a defence, didnt put experts on the stand and didnt enter any evidence. There were also personal relationships with the legal team that may have impacted the trial. In a 1996 affidavit seen by The Independent, Duncan said that he later found out the father of the lead prosecutor in Mr Middletons case was representing his wifes sisters in a civil lawsuit against Mr Middleton. The law firm of the prosecutors father also represented the police department that led the investigation into Kathy Middletons death. Neither the prosecution nor the police department disclosed the conflict of interest. An expert who testified at the 2004 two-day hearing cast doubt on the police departments theory of the shooting. The expert testified that it was just impossible for my dad to have shot her because she was shot from eight inches away, and the trajectory of the bullet was at a steep angle. He couldnt have shot her and gotten out of the way [to avoid] any blood spatter on him, Cliff said. Kathy Middleton was shot from the left. Although her right hand tested negative for gun residue, the results of the test taken from her left hand never made it to court. The left-hand test was also never sent by police to the laboratory. In excerpts of Judge Messinas ruling reviewed by The Independent, she wrote that jurors saw a document filled out by crime scene investigators that stated the right hand had been tested and when held to light, it could be seen that the left hand part had been removed with white-out. To this day, nobody has ever explained where the left hand went, Cliff said. Kathy Middletons hands were tested for gun residue. The right hand sides test came back negative, but police never submitted the test from the left hand to the laboratory (Family handout ) Id plead guilty to killing Abraham Lincoln At the hearing, former Governor Missouri Joseph Teasdale also said Mr Middletons was the worst case of constitutional violations he had witnessed, according to a transcript seen by The Independent. Judge Messina wouldnt rule for another 11 months, but just two weeks after the evidentiary hearing concluded, the Jackson County Prosecutors Office came back to Mr Middleton with an Alford plea offer a type of deal that allows a defendant who maintains their innocence to accept a plea bargain. Mr Middleton did not take it. When Judge Messinas ruling came, the state appealed the decision on jurisdictional grounds. An appeal court later ruled in favour of the prosecution and revoked the judges decision. They offered him his freedom if he pleaded guilty, but because he wanted the trial judge to exonerate him What does [the prosecution] do? They turn around and appeal the decision and hide behind a procedural background, Cliff says. Ill never forget. One of the [prison] guards told my dad that he would have pled guilty to killing Abraham Lincoln and John F Kennedy if they would let him out of that place. Mr Middletons current attorney, Kent Gipson, joined his case five years after the prosecutions appeal. He has exhausted nearly every legal remedy available to Mr Middleton since and now hopes that a new judge can give them a new chance to argue their case at a status hearing scheduled for March. This case has probably got more twists and turns than just about anything Ive dealt with, Mr Gipson told The Independent. Ive been up and down through the courts, I dont know how many times in the last 14 years and nothings ever worked. The way I look at it, and thats probably the only way I havent gone insane or dropped dead is, all I can do is do the best I can. Cliff Middleton says that advocating for his fathers freedom has been his lifes work (Family handout ) Son crusades for fathers freedom Following Judge Messinas ruling, the Kansas City Star ran an article featuring Mr Middletons story titled Son crusades for fathers freedom . So for now he remains in prison, the last line of the piece read. Inspired by the headline, Cliff bought a billboard in downtown Kansas City with the same legend. The Kansas City Star ran an article featuring Mr Middletons story in 2005 (Screenshot/Kansas City Star Archive ) But for now turned into months, then years, and Mr Middleton has since remained in prison for two more decades. He speaks to his son nearly every day, but the missed family gatherings, birthday celebrations, and time with his grandchildren and now great-grandchildren have weighed heavily on the familys morale. [My children] have never seen him outside of a prison visiting room with a white T-shirt on, Cliff said. Theyve never seen my dad in street clothes as a normal human being like I did. Still fighting a legal system that has proved flawed, unreliable and even negligent, Cliff now knows by heart the date of every legal defeat. He has spent the last three decades studying any case that bears similarities to his dads, and learning a myriad of legal terms he never dreamed of becoming familiar with when he first found out his father had been arrested in 1990. This has been my lifes work, Cliff said. I thought my dad was coming home. I thought it was over. And we had that yanked away from us. 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 Mount Washington hiker admitted he was unprepared for the perilous conditions as he apologised to rescuers over their 11-hour mission to save him. Cole Matthes, 22, was hiking on Saturday on Mount Washington in New Hampshire when he began to drift away from his trail and stumbled upon a patch of snow-covered ice, and slid hundreds of feet down a ravine at around 11.50am, Associated Press reported. Mr Matthes said to the outlet that he has plenty of hiking experience, yet not during harsh winter conditions. The New Hampshire Fish and Game said in a news release that the hiker had made numerous poor decisions in the hike he planned. They said he did not have proper gear, equipment, or weather planning, and did not make proper critical decisions in order to keep himself out of harms way and moving in the right direction on a dangerous mountain range. The department added that his poor choices put 11 other lives in danger in order to save his, adding that if it were not for the rescuers, the Cog Railway and others, Mr Matthes would have undoubtedly died on the mountain. Mr Matthes has expressed his apologies for what happened up on the mountain. I am extremely grateful to all 11 of the men who saved my life Saturday and am also extremely sorry that they had to risk their lives to save me, he told the Associated Press. I certainly made poor decisions and was underprepared for this hike. Rescuers boarded the steep Cog Railway to make their way up to Mr Matthes (Sgt. Glen Lucas/New Hampshire Fish and Game via AP) After he fell, Mr Matthes called 911 for help, but due to poor reception, very little information was taken, only that he was injured and needed help. GPS tracking of the call was sent to a Conservation Officer, and the hiker was found well off trail in a drainage ravine at approximately 4,500 feet in elevation. Rescue teams decided that the best way to reach the hiker was using Mount Washingtons Cog Railway, the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world, and also the second steepest, according to their website. Attaching a snow blower to the front, the rescue crews boarded the train, which saved the teams many miles of hiking. Another call came in from Mr Matthes, but the signal was barely clear, though enough to understand that he was not in the same location but had made his way to another area, and was below a building in an emergency shelter. It was confirmed he still needed help, the release said. The conditions on the mountains as the first group of rescuers started across were harsh, with winds up to 90mph, a wind chill of -52F and an ambient temperature of -9F. In conditions like these, proper gear is needed to survive, as exposed skin would be subject to dangerous surroundings. The first group of rescuers found Mr Matthes at the emergency shelter at 6.17pm; while he was not injured, the hiker was suffering from hypothermia, with many layers of his clothes frozen even down to his hiking boots. I was extremely relieved once the first team of rescuers arrived, Mr Matthes said. Even with my shelter, I wouldnt have lasted through the night in my condition. Conditions were harsh, and the hiker sustained hypothermia and his clothes were frozen (Conservation Officer Brad Jones/New Hampshire Fish and Game via AP) It took the rescuers over three hours to slowly warm up the hiker, then he was transferred into extra gear. He was also given warm liquids. At around 9.45pm, Mr Matthes left the shelter and was brought down the Ammonusuc Ravine Trail with assistance. At 10.50pm, they arrived at the Cog Railway base station, where Mr Matthes was initially treated for hypothermia and frostbite. While he was recommended that he should go to hospital, Matthes was signed off after he said he did not want to be treated. According to AP, he thought that taking an ambulance would be expensive, so he drove himself there instead. Im currently recovering from some frostbite on my toes, Mr Matthes said. Despite seeing other groups turn around and who said, The weather isnt worth it, he decided to keep going, the department said in the release. While I did see a group of hikers turn around at the Lake of the Clouds Hut, I decided to continue with other hikers, Mr Matthes said to the outlet. I was not hiking alone at that point, and the weather conditions had not reached their peak. In their statement, New Hampshire Fish and Game Department concluded: The list of people who have died on the Presidential Range will stay at 173 for now, thanks to the rescue effort that saved Cole Matthess life on Saturday. 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 female stingray in a North Carolina aquarium is pregnant even though there are no males in her tank. The mysterious pregnancy has become the subject of widespread fascination, with many wondering how the round stingray, named Charlotte, came to be pregnant. The unique thing about Charlotte is we dont have a male ray, Brenda Ramer, executive director of the Aquarium & Shark Lab in Hendersonville, said in a video on Facebook. Aquarium staff believe Charlottes seemingly immaculate conception is the result of parthenogenesis, a rare form of asexual reproduction observed in some animals, including fish, birds, insects, and amphibians. Charlotte was found covered in shark bites a sign of mating in sharks which initially led some to speculate that a shark was the father, and Charlottes baby would be a shark-stingray hybrid. But Kady Lyons, a research scientist at the Georgia Aquarium, told the Associated Press this sort of interspecies copulation is not biologically possible. We should set the record straight that there arent some shark-ray shenanigans happening here, Lyons said. Even so, Charlottes pregnancy is no less remarkable she is the only known case of her species to become pregnant by parthenogenesis, Lyons said. We dont know why it happens, Lyons said. Just that its kind of this really neat phenomenon that they seem to be able to do. Charlotte is expecting three or four pups, and is expected to give birth in about a week. 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 Los Angeles woman has been detained in Russia on accusations of treason for allegedly giving funds to Ukraine, according to Russias FSB security services. The woman, a 33-year-old dual American-Russian citizen, was not identified in a statement issued by the FSB, which said she was involved in providing financial assistance to a foreign state in activities directed against the security of our country. The FSB in the central Urals city of Yekaterinburg accused her of taking part in pro-Ukraine protests outside of Russia and of sending aid to Kyiv. It said the woman had been proactively collecting funds... which were subsequently used to purchase tactical medical items, equipment, means of destruction and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces. Perviy Otdel, also known as the First Department, a collective of lawyers dealing with cases of alleged treason and espionage in Russia, and independent Russian outlet Mediazona, identified the woman as Ksenia Khavana. The First Department added that Ms Khavana was detained on charges of treason on the day of Vladimir Putins interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson. She has been accused of transferring the amount of $51.80 from her American bank account to the account of Razom for Ukraine, a New York-based non-profit group, on 24 February 2022, the same day Mr Putin ordered the unprovoked and unsuccessful invasion of Ukraine. The treason charges came after she was first arrested in late January outside a cinema in Ekaterinburg, the largest city in Russias central Ural region, on charges of violating public order and sentenced to 14 days in detention, according to Perviy Otdel. A screengrab from a video aired on Feb. 20, 2024 by Russias state-run broadcaster RU24 shows an LA woman being arrested and taken to court in Russia (RU24) It is unclear how long the woman has lived in the US or why she returned to Russia, however, the Financial Times reported that Ms Khavana studied in Yekaterinburg before moving to the US, where she became a citizen in 2021 and had worked as a spa manager in Beverly Hills. The FSB published a video of a woman in a white coat with a white hat pulled down over her eyes being led by a masked security agent down several flights in a building in Yekaterinburg before she was handcuffed, placed in a car and taken into a courtroom. The woman, whose face is blurred, is then seen standing in a metal cage in court. A court proceeding in the case took place Monday, Russian media reported. Her arrest came just four days before the two-year mark of Russias ongoing, full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and follows that of American journalist Evan Gershkovich, a correspondent for the Wall Street Journal, who was arrested on espionage charges in March. He and his employer, as well as the State Department, have denied the charges. Former US Marine Paul Whelan has also been detained in Russia since 2018 on espionage charges. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week that he had spoken on the phone with Whelan, whom, along with Gershkovich, the US has deemed to be wrongfully detained by Russia. Our intensive efforts to bring Paul home continue every single day, and they will until he and Evan Gershkovich and every other American wrongfully detained is back with their loved ones, Blinken said after the call. A third dual American-Russian citizen, Alsu Kurmasheva, is also being held in pre-trial detention. US journalist Evan Gershkovich, arrested on espionage charges, looks out from inside a defendants cage before a hearing to consider an appeal on his extended pre-trial detention, at the Moscow City Court in Moscow on 20 February, 2024 (AFP via Getty Images) The Prague-based editor with Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe was arrested in October after travelling to her familys home in Russias Tatarstan region for a family emergency. She was charged with failing to register as a foreign agent. Treason charges in Russia are punishable by up to life in prison under legislation toughened since the countrys invasion of Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently under fire for the unexplained death of the countrys opposition leader Alexei Navalny in an Arctic Circle prison, has previously been accused of using dual American-Russian citizens as bargaining chips to release Russians imprisoned in the US. In 2022, WNBA star Brittney Griner was released from prison in Russia after she was exchanged for notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout, who had been jailed for years in the US. Earlier this month, Mr Putin said he was ready to hold negotiations over a prisoner exchange that could see the release of Mr Gershkovich. President 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. A Moscow city court rejected the latest appeal for Mr Gershkovichs release on Tuesday. 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 }} St Patricks Cathedral in New York said it was tricked into holding a funeral for a prominent transgender community leader and atheist, condemning the service sacrilegious and deceptive. The funeral was for Cecilia Gentili, a celebrated activist and actress who died on 6 February at the age of 52. Ms Gentili was known for her work advocating for trans people, sex workers, and people with HIV and Aids. In a statement on Saturday, the rector of St Patricks, Rev Enrique Salvo, thanked those who have let us know they share our outrage over the scandalous behavior at the memorial service. The Cathedral only knew that family and friends were requesting a funeral Mass for a Catholic, and had no idea our welcome and prayer would be degraded in such a sacrilegious and deceptive way, Mr Salvo said. At the Cardinals directive, we have offered an appropriate Mass of Reparations, he added. More than 1,000 attendees came to Ms Gentilis funeral on Thursday, many of whom were trans. Mourners wore glitter, fishnets, bright colors, feather boas, and all sorts of avante-garde ensembles to mark the occasion, the New York Times reported. The funerals organizer, Ceyenne Doroshow, said St Patricks Cathedral was chosen as the venue because it is an icon, just like her. During the planning process, she did not mention to church leaders that Ms Gentili was trans, she said. I kind of kept it under wraps, Ms Doroshow said. In one eulogy, Ms Gentili was hailed as Saint Cecilia, mother of all whores, drawing raucous cheers and applause from the crowded pews. In a statement to the New York Times , the Gentili family condemned the church for hypocrisy and anti-trans hatred, and said the LGBTQ community would remember how Ms Gentili ministered, mothered and loved all people. Her heart and hands reached those the sanctimonious church continues to belittle, oppress and chastise, they said. The only deception present at St. Patricks Cathedral is that it claims to be a welcoming place for all. 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 }} A former FBI informant charged with fabricating corruption allegations against President Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden is actively peddling new lies that threaten US elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials, according to federal law enforcement. Alexander Smirnov who allegedly provided false derogatory information about the president and his son in interviews with the FBI told authorities that he has extensive and extremely recent contacts with foreign intelligence officials, according to the US Department of Justice. A court filing from the office of special counsel David Weiss on Tuesday seeking Mr Smirnovs pretrial detention claims that he has contacts with multiple foreign intelligence agencies and had plans to leave the United States two days following last weeks arrest. After his arrest, he told law enforcement that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden, prosecutors wrote. Mr Smirnov has reported numerous contacts with a Russian intelligence official described as the son of a former high-ranking Russian government official, someone who purportedly controls two groups of individuals tasked with carrying out assassination efforts in a third-party country, a Russian representative to another country, and as someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service, according to the filing. His anticipated travel was for the purpose of meeting with Russian intelligence officials, among others, prosecutors wrote. His efforts to spread misinformation about the president are ongoing, they added. The misinformation he is spreading is not confined to 2020. He is actively peddling new lies that could impact US elections after meeting with Russian intelligence officials in November, according to prosecutors. In light of that fact there is a serious risk he will flee in order to avoid accountability for his actions. In one instance, Mr Smirnov claimed that Russian intelligence officials, staked out of a club at a hotel, had intercepted several calls placed by prominent US persons the Russian government may use as kompromat in the 2024 election, depending on who the candidates will be. The filing on Tuesday goes on to list several other alleged meetings and descriptions of interactions with Russian intelligence officials from Mr Smirnov. Such meetings are not benign, according to prosecutors. A grand jury indictment accuses Mr Smirnov of making false allegations to FBI agents in June 2020, when he allegedly told them about two meetings with an executive from Burisma, the Ukrainian energy company which employed Hunter Biden as an attorney and later as a member of its corporate board. Mr Smirnov allegedly told agents that executives associated with Burisma admitted to him that they hired [Hunter Biden] to protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems. He also allegedly told agents that the Burisma executives made $5m payments to both Joe and Hunter Biden when Joe Biden was vice president, as part of an alleged effort to take care of issues stemming from a criminal probe involving Burisma and Ukraine. Hunter Biden appears at a Republican-led House Oversight Committee hearing on 10 January (REUTERS) The allegations have figured prominently in unsubstantiated claims from Republican members of Congress who have been conducting an impeachment investigation into President Biden. Last week, attorneys for Hunter Biden alleged that Mr Smirnovs allegations sought to derail a planned plea arrangement between the presidents son and federal prosecutors last year. It now seems clear that the Smirnov allegations infected this case, according to the younger Bidens attorneys. His statements sent US officials down a rabbit hole of lies, they wrote. Mr Weisss special counsel office is leading parallel criminal cases against Hunter Biden, who faces three charges related to an illegal purchase and possession of a gun, as well as nine tax-related charges for his alleged failure to avoid paying $1.4m in taxes owed between 2016 and 2019. He has pleaded not guilty in both cases. 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 }} Alexei Navalny issued a chilling warning about what a second presidential term for Donald Trump could mean in one of his final letters before he died in an Arctic prison last week. According to The New York Times, which has collected together some of the late Russian dissidents correspondence from jail, Navalny worked hard to stay in touch with global politics from his cell at the Polar Wolf penal colony, around 1,000 miles northeast of Moscow. The staunch opponent of Vladmir Putin also read voraciously from Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Chekhov and Solzhenitsyn to occupy his mind and prevent himself from sinking into despair amid the brutal conditions in which he was held. In one 3 December letter to Evgeny Feldman, a photographer who covered his attempted run for president in 2018 and now lives in exile in Latvia, Navalny wrote that he feared that if anything should happen to President Joe Biden a distinct possibility, he felt, given the Americans advanced age Trump will become president. To Navalny, a second Mr Trump term was a really scary prospect for the wider world. Doesnt this obvious thing concern the Democrats? he asked Mr Feldman, apparently incredulous that 81-year-old Mr Biden is pursuing a second term rather than yielding to a younger successor to take on Mr Trump, who looks all but certain to be the Republican nominee again this year. Elsewhere in the correspondence, Navalny expressed a nostalgia for spicy foreign cuisine like the Turkish kebabs he enjoyed while recuperating in Berlin, Germany, after being poisoned with Novichok. He also wrote about how moved he had been after reading an obituary of the Friends actor Matthew Perry and told Mr Feldman: Everyone usually thinks that I really need pathetic and heartbreaking words but I really miss the daily grind news about life, food, salaries, gossip. Of the unthinking obedience of his captors, he ominously told another friend, media entrepreneur Ilia Krasilshchik: If theyre told to feed you caviar tomorrow, theyll feed you caviar. If theyre told to strangle you in your cell, theyll strangle you. For his part, Mr Trump was criticised for not saying anything when Navalnys death was announced on Friday. He finally broke his silence on his death on Monday only to draw an entirely self-serving comparison between Navalnys fate and his own legal problems, while failing to condemn Mr Putin. The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country, the Republican wrote on his Truth Social platform. It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction. Open Borders, Rigged Elections, and Grossly Unfair Courtroom Decisions are DESTROYING AMERICA. WE ARE A NATION IN DECLINE, A FAILING NATION! MAGA2024. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his wife Yulia march in memory of murdered Kremlin critic Boris Nemtsov in Moscow in February 2020 (Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty) That message came after a week in which Mr Trump had come under fire for saying that, should he return to power, he would let Russia do whatever the hell they want to any of Americas Nato allies that failed to keep up their defence contributions to the military alliance. His latest crass intervention was slammed by former House speaker Nancy Pelosi in an interview with MSNBCs Jen Psaki on Monday evening, on her return from the Munich Security Conference in Germany where she met Navalnys grieving widow Yulia Navalnaya. What does he have on Donald Trump that he has to constantly be catering to Putin? she said of the Russian dictator, invoking the possibility that the Kremlin may have kompromat on the US presidential hopeful something that was first suggested in a speculative dossier compiled by the British spy Christopher Steele in 2016. I dont know what he has on him, but I think its probably financial. Or something that he expects to get. Working herself up into a fury, Ms Pelosi went on to call the Republican candidate Mr Putins buddy in vileness and said that his post about Navalny shows you he is a person without values and his remarks beneath the dignity of a human being to express. 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 has reportedly told his campaign aides to hone in on former President Donald Trumps more extreme comments and statements, to highlight the differences between the two 2024 frontrunners. Sources told CNN that Biden wanted Trumps crazy s*** highlighted in an effort to show he is unfit to regain the White House, following months of Trump trying to disparage Biden in a similar way. The presidents reelection campaign aides have reportedly become increasingly concerned that voters view the Trump years through rose-tinted glasses, CNN said, and that they need to be reminded of the reality of the situation. The president knows the stakes this November could not be higher for the American people, Ammar Moussa, the Biden campaigns director of rapid response, said in a statement to the outlet. Donald Trump is the polar opposite of everything President Biden stands for and has accomplished since he took office, and the campaigns top priority over the next nine months will be laying out that stark choice for voters. At the weekend, Trump told supporters in Michigan that they needed to go out and vote in the states primary, but then said the important date to do so was 27 November, rather than 27 February. The Republican favourite also told the rally that for much of his life, he hadnt known of the word indictment, despite now facing multiple court cases. In recent weeks, Trump has also appeared to make threats to NATO members who do not pay their way, while also reaffirming his support of Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Sunday, President Biden posted to X saying that the progress made in the past three years can all be wiped out in November, adding that Democrats must maintain the White House and the Senate, as well as regain the House of Representatives. 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 Bidens brother James Biden is set to give testimony today during a closed-door meeting with House Republicans, as part of their impeachment inquiry into the president. The interview on Wednesday in their so-far chaotic and lacklustre investigation will take place after the House Republicans brought forward a number of business and family associates who testified that Mr Biden has not been a part of any of his family business dealings abroad the main allegation that prompted the inquiry in the first place. Republicans leading the probe are fighting against increasing dissatisfaction within their own party over the investigation, with many concerned that it might backfire in an election year and lose them their narrow House majority. Following negotiations that came close to falling apart, the presidents son Hunter Biden is also expected to appear for a closed-door interview next week. A decision on whether to move forward with articles of impeachment is expected after the interviews with James and Hunter Biden, according to CNN. House Speaker Mike Johnson may have to give his approval to the impeachment, despite having initially failed to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas following three Republican defections. House Republicans subsequently managed to impeach the secretary by a one-vote margin. Since December, Republicans have spoken to eight people who worked with the Bidens. But, despite their efforts to unearth wrongdoing, hundreds of pages of testimony and hours of interviews have failed to result in any evidence that the president took part in, or drew any benefit from, the business schemes. Several skeptical House Republicans have said that Mr Bidens conduct does not reach the level of high crimes or misdemeanours required to impeach him. James Biden (left) and Hunter Biden (right) (AP) On Tuesday, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee harshly criticised a witness for the Republicans. In a scathing nine-page letter obtained by The Independent, Maryland Rep Jamie Raskin went after Tony Bobulinski, a former business associate of Hunter Biden. Mr Bobulinski subsequently became a staunch Biden family detractor, appearing before the House panel last week where he once again shared claims he also made during the 2020 election that the president had acted to create opportunities for his family to make money abroad. Mr Bobulinski claimed that the Biden business schemes sold out to foreign actors who were seeking to gain influence and access to Joe Biden and the United States government. On Tuesday, Mr Raskin wrote in a letter to Mr Bobulinskis lawyer and the Republican chair of the panel, Kentucky Rep James Comer, that Mr Bobulinskis interview was chaotic to the point of burlesque as he repeatedly yelled, shouted, filibustered, and hurled outlandish and baseless accusations and insults against Democratic Members and staff. Mr Raskin said he was baffled and amused by a letter in which Mr Bobulinskis attorney Stefan Passantino, who worked in the Office of White House Counsel during the Trump administration, said that Mr Raskins previous account of Mr Bobulinskis eight-hour testimony was a grotesque mischaracterization. I stand proudly by my statement that over the course of his more than eight hours of belabored testimony, Mr. Bobulinski did not offer any evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden, Mr Raskin wrote. He also did not provide any evidence that President Biden was involved in his familys business dealings. Furthermore, unable to point to any evidence to support his wild claims against President Biden, Mr. Bobulinski casually accused a broad group of individuals and organizations of lying. Last week, Special Counsel David Weiss charged a former FBI informant with lying about Mr Biden and his sons business dealings with Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company. Following his arrest, Alexander Smirnov said that he was handed the false information about Hunter Biden by Russian intelligence, prosecutors said in a Tuesday court filing. 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 }} Donald Trump has said that being hit with a $350m judgement following his recent high profile fraud case was a form of Navalny, in reference to the jailing and apparent murder of the late Russian dissident. The former president said that the ruling by New York judge Arthur Engoron who he described as a nut job was a form of communism or fascism. On Friday, Judge Engoron found that Mr Trump, his sons, their Trump Organization associates and Trump properties were liable for tens of millions of dollars after defraudng banks and investors as part of a decade-long scheme to secure favourable financing terms for some of his brand-building properties. Mr Trump as well as his companies and his trust were ordered to pay more than $350m, plus interest, while his sons were each ordered to pay roughly $4m. Mr Trump took part in a town hall event, hosted by Fox News, in Greenville, South Carolina on Tuesday. During the event he was asked about his various ongoing court cases, as well as the shocking death of Alexei Navalny, a long-time political critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin has denied involvement in Navalnys death and said that Western claims that Mr Putin was responsible are unacceptable. Trump says his $355m fraud penalty is a form of Navalny (Getty Images) Mr Trump who expressed admiration for Mr Putin during his 2017-2021 White House tenure and afterward previously said in a post on his platform TruthSocial that the death of Navalny had made him aware of what was happening in our Country. Mr Trump took part in a town hall event, hosted by Fox News, in Greenville, South Carolina on Tuesday (AP) Asked about Navalnys death on Tuesday evening, he replied: Its a very sad situation and he was very brave. He was a very brave guy because he went back [to Russia], he could have stayed away, and frankly, probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in because people thought that could happen, and it did happen. However, he was quick to compare the news to his own situation, adding: Its a horrible thing, but its happening in our country too. We are turning into a communist country in many ways, and if you look at it, Im the leading candidate. Id never heard of being indicted before, I got indicted four times, I have eight or nine trials all because of the fact that Im in politics. The former president was also asked if felt like he was at risk of becoming a political prisoner, following the multiple lawsuits being brought against him. He once again singled out the judgement handed down by Mr Engoron. Its a form of Navalny, he said, adding It is a form of communism or fascism. The guy [Mr Engoron] is a nut job. Ive known this for a long time and Ive said it openly. Trump speaks with moderator Laura Ingraham of Fox News (AP) No jury, no anything. Letitia James is a horrible Attorney General in New York, [she] campaigned on I will get Trump. I will get Trump. We went through a trial. It turned out were totally innocent on everything and he fined me $355 million plus interest. Despite Mr Trumps brief praise of Navalny on Tuesday, the Russian activist had been less reciprocal having issued a chilling warning about what a second presidential term for Mr Trump could mean in one of his final letters before he died. According to The New York Times, which collected together some of the late Russian dissidents correspondence from jail, Navalny described the prospect as really scary. In one 3 December letter to Evgeny Feldman, a photographer who covered his attempted run for president in 2018 and now lives in exile in Latvia, Navalny wrote that he feared that if anything should happen to President Joe Biden a distinct possibility, he felt, given the Americans advanced age Trump will become president. 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 }} Donald Trump resurrected one of his infamous adjectives at a recent town hall event, telling supporters that his GOP rival for the presidency Nikki Haley was losing the race bigly. The former president said that he and his campaign would do a job in the state of South Carolina, where Ms Haley was formerly governor. The state primary is set for Saturday 24 February. Mr Trump currently leads in state polling from FiveThirtyEight, commanding 63.5 per cent of the vote, in comparison to Ms Haleys 33.5 per cent. Speaking at the Fox News event in Greenville on Tuesday night Mr Trump blasted his former UN ambassador. Youre not supposed to lose your home state, shouldnt happen anyway, and shes losing it big... I said bigly, he said. Shes losing it bigly, were gonna really do a job [on her]. Mr Trump appeared at a town hall event, hosted by Fox News, in South Carolina on Tuesday (AP) The word bigly first appeared in Mr Trumps lexicon during the 2016 presidential debates. The term sparked a post-debate debate; some argued that Mr Trump was saying big league, but others argued that a close listen renders bigly. The term is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as an adverb form of big. Mr Trump has trounced Ms Haley in all head-to-head competitions so far. In Nevada, she also suffered further defeat by losing on a ballot that the former president did not feature on losing out to the option of none of these candidates. Asked why Ms Haley remained in the competition having promised to hang on until the South Carolina primary Mr Trump replied: I dont think she knows how to get out actually. I really dont. If she was doing well, Id understand it. But shes doing very poorly. She lost in record numbers in Iowa record numbers in New Hampshire and Nevada. Mr Trump has been open with his previous disdain for Ms Haley, having referred to her as Birdbrain another of his favourite insults, which means a stupid person. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Former president Donald Trump on Tuesday struggled to answer when he was asked for proof that Joe Biden had personally benefitted from his son Hunter Bidens overseas business dealings. At a town hall event in Greenville, South Carolina, the GOP front-runner was asked by Fox News host Laura Ingraham about his response to those who argue that there is no evidence that president Biden has received any financial benefit from his 53-year-old sons business ventures. But they say theres no evidence that Joe Biden received any financial benefit personally. And to that you say? Ingraham asked Mr Trump. The former president gave a vague response, telling the Fox News host: Well, hes got a lot of houses all over the place. And hes never been paid more than about $179,000. President Biden currently makes a salary of $400,000 per year. During his eight years as Barack Obamas vice president, he earned about $235,000 per year. And in his 36 years in the Senate, his salary peaked at just over $169,000 a year in 2008. Meanwhile, between his time as vice president and president from 2017 and 2019 Mr Biden earned more than $16.5m from large payouts for book deals and speaking gigs. He also bought his second home in Delaware in 2017, a 4,800-square-foot vacation home in Rehoboth Beach he purchased for $2.74m. Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump participates in a Fox News town hall with Laura Ingraham in Greenville, South Carolina (REUTERS) Hes gotten a lot of money, Mr Trump said, before making accusations about the presidents son. Hunters gotten a lot of money. Hunter gets millions of dollars just for sitting on a board, an energy board, and he admits that he knows nothing about energy. Hunter Biden spent five years on the board of Burisma Holdings, a Ukrainian energy company that paid him around $11m between 2013 to 2018 for legal work. Joe Biden was previously accused by Republicans, without any evidence, of improperly withholding a loan guarantee and taking a bribe to pressure Ukraine into firing prosecutor general Viktor Shokin to prevent a corruption investigation of Burisma. The accusation was later proved to be false and Donald Trump was impeached in 2019 for allegedly attempting to coerce Ukraine and other countries to investigate Joe Biden and provide damaging narratives about the former vice-president. House Republicans are currently still attempting to impeach President Biden over accusations that he profited from his son Hunter Bidens overseas business dealings, with the House voting to formalise their ongoing impeachment inquiry in December. So far, no conclusive evidence has been produced to prove any wrongdoing against the Bidens, but House speaker Mike Johnson has insisted that the investigation is necessary and not a spurious political vendetta against a commander-in-chief his side disapproves of, as Democrats have alleged. Pete Aguilar, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, previously accused House GOP members of using the impeachment inquiry as a smokescreen for getting Donald Trump re-elected. Its painfully obvious that they are trying to hurt President Biden politically to help Donald Trump get re-elected, he said. 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 }} Photos that federal prosecutors claimed were evidence of Hunter Bidens drug use didnt actually depict cocaine it was sawdust, his attorneys said. In a new court filing on Tuesday, lawyers for Mr Biden called prosecutors reckless for the alleged error, and said the results of their discovery cannot be taken at face value. Mistaking sawdust for cocaine sounds more like a storyline from one of the 1980s Police Academy comedies than what should be expected in a high-profile prosecution by the U.S. Department of Justice, they wrote in the court filing. The filing comes amid special counsel David Weisss sprawling criminal investigation into the presidents son. As part of the case, Mr Biden faces felony charges for allegedly lying about his drug use on federal forms when applying for a gun permit. He has pleaded not guilty to the gun charge, as well as to tax charges. According to the Tuesday court filing, prosecutors said Mr Biden took the photo they claimed depicted cocaine. In fact, the attorneys said, he did not take it but was instead sent it by his psychiatrist. The psychiatrist, Dr Keith Ablow, received the photo from a master carpenter who was a coke addict. He sent it to Mr Biden as part of a message meant to convey that Mr Biden, too, could overcome any addiction, the filing states. I told him that, ultimately, [the carpenter] would have to choose between his art and his drug. He sent me the photo and a message that said, Made my choice. Hope you do too, the accompanying message, which is included in the filing, reads. 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 }} James Biden, the brother of President Joe Biden, said in his opening statement as he testified in the Republican impeachment inquiry that those who argued that he used his connection to his brother to boost his business ventures are either mistaken, ill-informed, or flat-out lying. In every business venture in which I have been involved, I have relied on my own talent, judgment, skill, and personal relationshipsand never my status as Joe Bidens brother, he said in the statement on Wednesday. Republicans have long argued that the entire Biden family is corrupt and that they have used Mr Bidens political influence in their business schemes but the GOP have struggled to substantiate their claims. It is difficult to open my personal and professional life to such intense public scrutiny, but I am doing so to comply with the Committees inquiry, James Biden, the third of four Biden children, said. The president is the oldest of the siblings. I have nothing to hide. With my appearance here today, the Committees will have the information to conclude that the negative and destructive assumptions about me and my relationship with my brother Joe are wrong, the 74-year-old James Biden added. There is no basis for this inquiry to continue. The interview with James Biden on Wednesday in House Republicans so-far chaotic and lacklustre investigation comes after they brought forward a number of business and family associates who also testified that the president has not been a part of any of his family business dealings abroad the main allegation that prompted the inquiry in the first place. Republicans leading the probe are fighting against increasing dissatisfaction within their own party over the investigation, with many concerned that it might backfire in an election year and lose them their narrow House majority. James Biden said those alleging corruption were either mistaken, ill-informed, or flat-out lying (AP) Following negotiations that came close to falling apart, the presidents son Hunter Biden is also expected to appear for a closed-door interview next week. A decision on whether to move forward with articles of impeachment is expected after the interviews with James and Hunter Biden, according to CNN. House Speaker Mike Johnson may have to give his approval to the impeachment, despite having initially failed to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas following three Republican defections. House Republicans subsequently managed to impeach the secretary by a one-vote margin. Since December, Republicans have spoken to eight people who worked with the Bidens. But, despite their efforts to unearth wrongdoing, hundreds of pages of testimony and hours of interviews have failed to result in any evidence that the president took part in, or drew any benefit from, the business schemes. Several sceptical House Republicans have said that Mr Bidens conduct does not reach the level of high crimes or misdemeanours required to impeach him. In his opening statement on Wednesday, James Biden outlined four critical points. I have had a 50-year career in a variety of business ventures. Joe Biden has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities. None, he asserted. Because of my intimate knowledge of my brothers personal integrity and character, as well as my own strong ethics, I have always kept my professional life separate from our close personal relationship. James Biden went on to say that he never asked the president to take any official action on behalf of me, my business associates, or anyone else, adding the fourth point about not using status as the brother of a senator, vice president, and president. Republicans have criticised the Bidens business connections to China. James Biden said in his opening statement: In the late winter of 2017, after my brother concluded his term as Vice President and before he contemplated running for President, Hunter asked me to assist him with a business venture that he was developing with CEFC, a Chinese company. Over the next few months, I spent considerable time meeting with and getting to know the others involved in the project, he added. In particular, I got to know the three individuals who were affiliated with Hunters end of the dealat the beginning, Mr. Walker and Mr. Gilliar, and later Tony Bobulinski. In a scathing nine-page letter obtained by The Independent on Tuesday, Maryland Rep Jamie Raskin went after Mr Bobulinski. Mr Bobulinski is now a staunch Biden family detractor, appearing before the House panel last week where he once again shared claims he also made during the 2020 election that the president had acted to create opportunities for his family to make money abroad. Mr Bobulinski claimed that the Biden business schemes sold out to foreign actors who were seeking to gain influence and access to Joe Biden and the United States government. On Tuesday, Mr Raskin wrote in a letter to Mr Bobulinskis lawyer and the Republican chair of the panel, Kentucky Rep James Comer, that Mr Bobulinskis interview was chaotic to the point of burlesque as he repeatedly yelled, shouted, filibustered, and hurled outlandish and baseless accusations and insults against Democratic Members and staff. Mr Raskin said he was baffled and amused by a letter in which Mr Bobulinskis attorney Stefan Passantino, who worked in the Office of White House Counsel during the Trump administration, said that Mr Raskins previous account of Mr Bobulinskis eight-hour testimony was a grotesque mischaracterization. I stand proudly by my statement that over the course of his more than eight hours of belabored testimony, Mr. Bobulinski did not offer any evidence of wrongdoing by President Biden, Mr Raskin wrote. He also did not provide any evidence that President Biden was involved in his familys business dealings. Furthermore, unable to point to any evidence to support his wild claims against President Biden, Mr. Bobulinski casually accused a broad group of individuals and organizations of lying. James Biden said on Wednesday that his reaction to Mr Bobulinski was intensely negative. Describing him as tremendously arrogant, Mr Biden said Mr Bobulinski was often disrespectful and a bad listener; acted like a stubborn bully; and seemed intent on assuming control of the deal and undermining Hunters role. Hunter agreed with my assessment. In recent years, I have seen Mr. Bobulinski in the news, and his appearances have only strengthened my early reservations about his honesty, character, and motivations, he added. To the extent Mr. Bobulinski has said or suggested that I ever sought to, or did, involve my brother in any business dealings with CEFCor anyone else for that matterthose allegations are false, Mr Biden said. 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 as Joe Biden gave a speech in Culver, California, on Wednesday, 21 February, as his administration announced that it will forgive $1.2bn in student debt for over 150,000 borrowers. The US president has announced the approval to forgive student debt for almost 153,000 borrowers currently enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, which was originally planned for July, the White House said. Loan forgiveness will go to those who have been in repayment for 10 years or more and originally took out $12,000 or less. On Wednesday, Mr Biden is concluding a two-day visit to the Southland. He will issue an executive order addressing security at US ports and further action to strengthen maritime cybersecurity, the USs industrial base, and supply chains, according to a White House statement. Mr Bidens visit came as his brother, James Biden, gave his opening statement for his testimony in the Republican impeachment inquiry. 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 }} Despite refusing to show up for any of the Republican primary debates or for the presidential debates in 2020 Donald Trump is now challenging PresidentJoe Biden to debate him this time around. Speaking at a town hall on Fox News Tuesday night, the former president and Republican frontrunner said there was an obligation for the pair to go head-to-head in the lead-up to the election in November. Frankly, I think we have an obligation. When you have the final Republican, the final Democrat, you have the two people, you have to debate regardless of polls, Mr Trump told Laura Ingraham in South Carolina. Mr Trump said he would like to have as many debates as necessary, adding: I would like to do it starting now. The former president said he doesnt believe Mr Biden will be willing to debate him despite it being Mr Trump who refused to take part in one of the planned events in the run-up to the 2020 election. Republican presidential candidate, former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a Fox News town hall at the Greenville Convention Center on February 20, 2024 in Greenville, South Carolina (Getty Images) Three presidential debates are planned so far for the 2024 election. During the current election period, Mr Trump has refused to show up to any televised debates between his Republican rivals, instead choosing to stage rival events such as town halls or interviews with former Fox News presenter Tucker Carlson. When you debate, you want to be smart, you dont have to waste your time, Mr Trump told Ms Ingraham. Voters have not been deterred by his refusal to go head-to-head with his Republican rivals, however, with Mr Trump continuously leading his fellow GOP candidates in the polls and winning the first three primaries. Despite several recent blunders not to mention his string of criminal and civil issues the former president is trying to position himself as a far more capable candidate than Mr Biden, who he is trying to paint as a diminished yet stubborn character. Hes declined and there is no question about it, Mr Trump said on Tuesday. Hes tried to be president many times, four times at least that they know of. Mr Biden ran for president in 1988 and 2008, when he then became Barack Obamas vice president, before gaining office in 2020. If they go ahead as planned, the three official presidential debates for 2024 will take place at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas on 16 September; Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia on 1 October; and at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah on 9 October. In the 2020 election cycle, there were initially three scheduled debates. The first debate took place on 29 September and was chaotic and combative with Mr Trump interrupting constantly leading Mr Biden to memorably say: Will you shut up, man? The next debate was scheduled to take place on October 15 but was cancelled due to Mr Trump having recently contracted Covid-19 and his refusal to appear at a remote event. Instead, the two candidates took part in duelling town halls on ABC and NBC. A final debate took place on 22 October and was more disciplined than the first but with neither candidate pulling punches. Vice presidential candidates Mike Pence and Kamala Harris also debated on 7 October, with Mr Pence memorably joined by a fly. 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 }} Donald Trump has finally commented on the death of Russian opposition figurehead Alexei Navalny to draw a self-serving and unlikely comparison with his own legal plight. Rather than blame Russian President Vladimir Putin for the highly suspicious death of Navalny in an Arctic prison camp on Friday, the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination wrote on Truth Social: The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our Country. It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction. Open Borders, Rigged Elections, and Grossly Unfair Courtroom Decisions are DESTROYING AMERICA. WE ARE A NATION IN DECLINE, A FAILING NATION! MAGA2024. The former American president is vying for a return to the White House with four criminal indictments and 91 felony charges hanging over his head. On the same day as Navalnys death, he was also ordered by a judge in New York to pay more than $350m in damages in a civil fraud trial. Mr Trump has denied wrongdoing on every count and has persistently and angrily insisted on social media and at his rallies that the cases against him are part of a giant conspiracy being orchestrated by President Joe Biden and his many enemies to stop him securing a belated second term in the Oval Office come November. The candidate has failed to produce any evidence to substantiate his baseless claims of endemic corruption, but that has not stopped him using his court dates as opportunities for grandstanding, self-promotion and lucrative campaign fundraising. Mr Trump appears to have succeeded, so far, in convincing his army of loyal supporters that he is genuinely being persecuted by President Bidens administration, rather than simply facing the inevitable legal consequences of his actions a narrative he mounted after his defeat in the 2020 election, which resulted in the failed insurrection at the US Capitol on 6 January 2021. Alexei Navalny (AP) His self-serving comments using Navalnys death to paint himself as a victim come three days after the news broke with the former president coming under fire for failing to address the matter sooner. By contrast, Mr Biden called a press conference on Friday morning where he paid an emotional tribute to Navalny, saying that he bravely stood up to the corruption, the violence and all the bad things that Putins government was doing. In response, Putin had him poisoned. He had him arrested and prosecuted for fabricated crimes [then]... sent to prison and held in isolation, the president continued, adding that it was kind of amazing that Navalny kept up his criticism of the dictator from behind bars. Even in prison, he was a powerful voice for the truth. On Navalnys brave decision to return to Russia after he was poisoned on a domestic flight in August 2020 and taken to Germany for treatment, Mr Biden said that the activist knew all too well what was likely to happen to him but did it anyway, because he believed so deeply in his country and Russia. He concluded: Make no mistake, Putin is responsible for Navalnys death. What happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putins brutality. Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken also joined world leaders in paying respects to the imprisoned dissident while attending the Munich Security Conference on Friday, stating unequivocally: Russia is responsible. Mr Trumps last remaining rival for the Republican nomination, his own former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, also put out a statement on Friday blasting the former presidents failure to speak out, saying her opponent continues to side with Vladimir Putin a man who kills his political opponents, holds American journalists hostage, and has never hidden his desire to destroy America. Trump continues to side with Putin over our allies and our military service members, she added. Earlier in the week, Mr Trump came under fire after he threatened to let Russia do whatever the hell they want to any of Americas Nato allies that fail to pay defence contributions to the military alliance, should he return to the White House. 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 }} A group of Trump loyalists in the US Senate released a joint letter calling on their partys leadership to demand the impeachment trial of Joe Bidens DHS secretary to begin immediately. The collection of 13 senators included right-wing stalwarts such as Mike Lee, Rick Scott, Marsha Blackburn and Tommy Tuberville. It did not list any signatures from senators with close ties to the leadership. Just one swing-state senator was on the list: Texass Ted Cruz, who has built a storied reputation as a conservative gadfly. In the letter, the conservatives denounced the reported plans of Democrats to table the articles of impeachment without bringing Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to trial in the Senate. They urged their counterparts in leadership to resist this effort and demand a full trial. This is an action rarely contemplated and never taken by the US Senate in the history of our Republic, the lawmakers wrote. We call on you to join us in our efforts to jettison this approach by Democrats to shirk their Constitutional duty, ensure that the Senate conducts a proper trial and that every Senator, Republican and Democrat, adjudicates this matter when the Senate returns, their letter continued. It was a revealing letter in more ways than one. In general, the low number of signatures suggests a lack of enthusiasm among other members of the Senate Republican caucus regarding the impending trial of Mr Mayorkas. Republicans are virtually guaranteed to lose the vote to remove Mr Mayorkas from office, and the final vote will likely be yet another instance of the GOP caucus splitting in the face of unified Democratic opposition. But the letter also suggested another reality of the Trump-loyalist contingents in the House and Senate; they do not care. Specifically, these lawmakers take no issue with putting pressure on their more moderate colleagues in an election year while their party is protecting a two-seat majority in the lower chamber and seeking to win its way back into power in the Senate. This kind of pressure will play well with voters in districts and states where alignment with Donald Trump remains the most powerful force in GOP primaries, but it will cause headaches for Republicans in swing districts and purple states who head into the fall facing down an image of chaos and a failure to govern surrounding their party. Two articles of impeachment targeting Mr Mayorkas passed the House of Representatives last week after initially failing in a tied vote. Mr Mayorkas is accused by Republicans of failing to properly enforce existing US immigration law; Democrats argue that accusation does not fit the standards for the impeachment of high crimes or misdemeanors set by the Constitution. Republicans recently tanked an effort by members of their own party to reach a compromise with Democrats, who control the Senate and the White House, to address border security through legislation. The now-abandoned deal would have granted the Executive Branch the power to shut down or temporarily halt the asylum process when illegal daily border crossings passed a certain threshold. Their Democratic rivals have hammered them for that refusal to negotiate, a development that occurred after former President Donald Trump openly pressured members of the House and Senate GOP caucuses to kill the deal. Despite grumblings from a number of Republicans, their party did end up bowing to Mr Trumps wishes; the former president and his allies reportedly chafed at the idea of handing President Joe Biden a win in an election year. Illegal border crossings outside of authorised ports of entry passed 124,000 in January, down 50 per cent from a spike in December. 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 49-year-old New Zealand parliamentarian died after collapsing while participating in a charity event in central Auckland on Wednesday. Efeso Collins was participating in the ChildFund Water Run to raise funds to support local communities in the Pacific at 9am in Aucklands Britomart when he collapsed. He reportedly died at the scene. Collins, the Green Party MP, had only recently started his new role as a member of parliament. Aotearoa (New Zealand) and the Green Party have lost one of the kindest, most dedicated champions of fairness and equality, Green Party co-leaders James Shaw and Marama Davidson said in a statement. Efeso devoted his life to serving and making a difference in the lives of those he met, including his constituents, colleagues, friends and family. He held the deepest respect of the members of all political parties and communities, they said. Collins is survived by his wife Fia and two daughters. According to New Zealands Stuff, Dave Letele, a fellow community leader, said he and Collins were just having a laugh after the race. Then all of a sudden he just collapsed. He added: One second we were having a laugh, the next second he was gone. Mr Letele said the race wasnt strenuous. We were just walking around a little track holding buckets of water. We had finished the interviews and were just having a laugh. Then all of a sudden he just collapsed. Born in Auckland of Tokelauan and Samoan heritage he participated actively in student politics and was a fervent supporter of South Auckland. His career in local government spanned nine years, during which he served as a representative for the Labour Party before he made the transition to the Green Party. It eventually led to his election to parliament in October last year. Mr Shaw, in his remarks in the House of Representatives on Wednesday, added: Efeso was joyful, funny, kind and conducted himself quietly, kindly and gracefully. He knew the first step towards change was a golden heart. Efeso Collins was a good man... We needed him. Every day that he came to work he carried the expectation of his South Auckland community... he made it look easy, fun, even, Collins made his maiden speech just a week ago and said that they must tackle poverty. Its hard to be poor, its expensive to be poor, and moreover, public discourse is making it socially unacceptable to be poor, he said. Many of our societal challenges are driven by poverty. We can achieve greater social cohesion and lift our sense of belonging by addressing poverty. Meanwhile, New Zealand prime minister Christopher Luxon also paid his tributes to the 49-year-old parliamentarian. Efeso was a good man, always friendly and kind, and a true champion and advocate for his Samoan and South Auckland communities, he said. Other New Zealand MPs also paid their condolences to the family. Labour deputy leader Carmel Sepuloni said: He was ambitious, he wanted to have his voice and the Pacific communitys voice heard. He was never scared to put himself out there, or up there, to be at the helm to be leading the fight. Labour leader Chris Hipkins met Collins during his student activism days. He said: He was very clear in his values. And he was very clear about who he was in public life to serve. He noted that Collins had always been a larger than life character since their days in student politics, destined for leadership. Meanwhile, Mr Letele said: Its hard to witness when someone dies before your eyes. When things like this happen you really have to value every second you have with your loved ones. 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 }} Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun will not appeal his suspended death sentence imposed by a Beijing court, said his family on Wednesday. Yangs family said there were no grounds to believe the judicial system would remedy his "unjust" sentence and a legal challenge would be detrimental to his welfare. A pro-democracy blogger, Yang was arrested at the Guangzhou airport in 2019 and booked for spying on an undisclosed foreign country. He was given a suspended death sentence earlier this month that can be commuted to life imprisonment after two years. Yang maintained his innocence since his arrest and received a closed-door trial in Beijing in May 2021. I will never confess to something I havent done, he said in 2020. A statement from Yangs family and close friends said they strongly supported the 58-year-olds decision to waive his right to appeal. They claimed another legal challenge would only delay the possibility of Yang receiving adequate medical care after five years of "inhumane" treatment and "neglect" in custody. Australian foreign minister Penny Wong said her government respected the "difficult decision" Yang made to waive his appeal rights and would continue to advocate for him at every opportunity and at the highest levels. "I acknowledge the strength that Dr Yangs family and friends have demonstrated through this period," Ms Wong said in a statement. "All Australians want to see Dr Yang reunited with his loved ones. His two sons, who live in Australia, wrote to prime minister Anthony Albanese in October on the eve of his visit to Beijing, urging him to seek Yangs release on medical grounds. In August last year, Yang had told his family he fears he will die in detention after being diagnosed with a kidney cyst, prompting supporters to demand his release for medical treatment. Born in China, Yang was a diplomat and state security agent before moving to the private sector in Hong Kong and later Australia. He had been detained in China for a short period once before, in 2011, on suspicion of links to online democracy activists but was released after a few days following interventions by the Australian government. At the time he wrote to Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi to say he had worked for Chinas Ministry of State Security for a decade starting in 1989, including in Hong Kong and Washington, before quitting and moving to Australia, Mr Feng had told Reuters. Yang migrated to Australia in 1999 and became an Australian citizen in 2002, undertaking PhD studies at Sydneys University of Technology in 2006, where Mr Feng was his supervisor. Yang spent the next four years writing spy novels, published in Taiwan, about a double agent, also surnamed Yang. He was detained as Australia-China ties deteriorated in 2019. But hopes of his release had been raised by the release of Australian broadcaster Cheng Lei shortly before Albanese visited China last year. Several activist earlier expressed their disappointment over Yangs sentencing. Elaine Pearson, who heads Human Rights Watch in Asia, at the time said the sentence was outrageous, and called on the Australian government to work with other governments that also have their citizens arbitrarily detained including Canada, Japan and the United States. James Laurenceson, director of the Australia-China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney, said that Beijing had said it wanted to move beyond the stabilisation of ties with Australia, but that the sentence would make a thaw harder. This decision makes it extremely difficult for the Albanese government to do so in terms of managing the domestic politics. The strong language already used by foreign minister makes plain their disappointment, he said. Additional reporting by agencies 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 }} Alexei Navalny, a thorn in the side of the Kremlin and Russias most prominent political dissident, has died in prison at the age of 47. Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, had been sentenced to 19 years in a penal colony around 40 miles of the Arctic Circle in charges widely thought to be politically motivated. The 47-year-old felt unwell after a walk at the jail and lost consciousness. An ambulance arrived to try to rehabilitate him, but he died, according to prison authorities. Navalny was moved from his former prison in the Vladimir region of central Russia in December to the special regime penal colony the highest security level of prisons in Russia. The political agitator has been behind bars since January 2021 when Navalny had been behind bars since January 2021, when he returned to Moscow after recuperating in Germany from nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. Before his arrest, he campaigned against official corruption, organized major anti-Kremlin protests and ran for public office. Here's a look at Navalnys life, political activism and the charges he has faced through the years: 1976 4 June 4 Navalny is born in a western part of the Moscow region. 1997 Graduates from Russias RUDN university, where he majored in law; earns a degree in economics in 2001 while working as a lawyer. 2004 Forms a movement against rampant overdevelopment in Moscow, according to his campaign website. Police officers detain Alexeo Navalny, at Moscow's Pushkinskaya Square, on March 5, 2012 (AFP via Getty Images) 2008 Gains notoriety for alleging corruption in state-run corporations, such as gas giant Gazprom and oil behemoth Rosneft, through his blogs and other posts. 2010 Founds RosPil, an anti-corruption project run by a team of lawyers that analyzes spending of state agencies and companies, exposing violations and contesting them in court. 2011 December- Participates in mass protests sparked by reports of widespread rigging of Russias parliamentary election, and is arrested and jailed for 15 days for defying a government official. 2012 March - Following Mr Putins reelection and inauguration, mass protests break out in Moscow and elsewhere. Navalny accuses key figures, including then-Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov and Chechnyas strongman leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, of corruption. July - Russias Investigative Committee charges Navalny with embezzlement involving Kirovles, a state-owned timber company in the Kirov region, while acting as an adviser to the local governor. Navalny rejects the allegations as politically motivated. December The Investigative Committee launches another probe into alleged embezzlement at a Navalny-linked Russian subsidiary of Yves Rocher, a French cosmetics company. Navalny again says the allegations are politically motivated. Navalny appears via a video link from the Arctic penal colony where he would later die (AP) 2013 Navalny runs for mayor in Moscow a move the authorities not only allow but encourage in an attempt to put a veneer of democracy on the race that is designed to boost the profile of the incumbent, Sergei Sobyanin. July - A court in Kirov convicts Navalny of embezzlement in the Kirovles case, sentencing him to five years in prison. The prosecution petitions to release Navalny from custody pending his appeal, and he resumes his campaign. September Official results show Navalny finishes second in the mayors race behind Sobyanin, with 27% of the vote, after a successful electoral and fundraising campaign collecting an unprecedented 97.3 million rubles ($2.9 million) from individual supporters. October A court hands Navalny a suspended sentence in the Kirovles case. February 2014 Navalny is placed under house arrest in connection with the Yves Rocher case and banned from using the internet. His blog continues to be updated regularly, presumably by his team, detailing alleged corruption by various Russian officials. December Navalny and his brother, Oleg, are found guilty of fraud in the Yves Rocher case. Navalny receives a 3 -year suspended sentence, while his brother is handed a prison term. Both appeal to the European Court of Human Rights. 2015 December Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption releases its first long-form video a YouTube documentary called Chaika, which means seagull in Russian but is also the last name of then-Prosecutor General Yury Chaika. The 44-minute video accuses him of corruption and alleged ties to a notorious criminal group and has piled up 26 million views on YouTube. Chaika and other Russian officials deny the accusations. 2016 February The European Court of Human Rights rules that Russia violated Navalnys right to a fair trial in the Kirovles case, ordering the government to pay his legal costs and damages. November Russias Supreme Court overturns Navalnys sentence and sends the case back to the original court in the city of Kirov for review. December Navalny announces he will run in Russias 2018 presidential election. Navalny and his wife Yulia attend a hearing at the Lublinsky district court in Moscow, Russia, April 23, 2015 (REUTERS) 2017 February The Kirov court retries Navalny and upholds his five-year suspended sentence from 2013. March Navalny releases a YouTube documentary accusing then-Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev of corruption, getting over 7 million views in its first week. A series of anti-graft protests across Russia draw tens of thousands and there are mass arrests. Navalny tours the country to open campaign offices, holds big rallies and is jailed repeatedly for unauthorized demonstrations. 27 April Unidentified assailants throw a green disinfectant in his face, damaging his right eye. He blames the attack on the Kremlin. October The European Court of Human Rights finds Navalnys fraud conviction in the Yves Rocher case to be arbitrary and manifestly unreasonable. December Russias Central Electoral Commission bars him from running for president over his conviction in the Kirovles case, a move condemned by the EU as casting serious doubt on the election. 2019 July Members of Navalnys team, along with other opposition activists, are barred from running for Moscow city council, sparking protests that are violently dispersed, with thousands arrested. Navalnys team responds by promoting the Smart Voting strategy, encouraging the election of any candidate except those from the Kremlins United Russia party. The strategy works, with the party losing its majority. 2020 Navalny seeks to deploy the Smart Voting strategy during regional elections in September and tours Siberia as part of the effort. 20 August On a flight from the city of Tomsk, where he was working with local activists, Navalny falls ill and the plane makes an emergency landing in nearby Omsk. Hospitalized in a coma, Navalnys team suspects he was poisoned. 22 August A comatose Navalny is flown to a hospital in Berlin. 24 August German authorities confirm Navalny was poisoned with a Soviet-era nerve agent. After he recovers, he blames the Kremlin, an accusation denied by Russian officials. Navalny was a fierce critic of Vladimir Putin (AP) 2021 17 January After five months in Germany, Navalny is arrested upon his return to Russia, with authorities alleging his recuperation abroad violated the terms of his suspended sentence in the Yves Rocher case. His arrest triggers some of the biggest protests in Russia in years. Thousands are arrested. 2 February A Moscow court orders Navalny to serve 2 years in prison for his parole violation. While in prison, Navalny stages a three-week hunger strike to protest a lack of medical treatment and sleep deprivation. June A Moscow court outlaws Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption and about 40 regional offices as extremist, shutting down his political network. Close associates and team members face prosecution and leave Russia under pressure. Navalny maintains contact with his lawyers and team from prison, and they update his social media accounts. 2022 24 February Russia invades Ukraine. Navalny condemns the war in social media posts from prison and during his court appearances. 22 March Navalny is sentenced to an additional nine-year term for embezzlement and contempt of court in a case his supporters rejected as fabricated. He is transferred to a maximum-security prison in Russias western Vladimir region. July Navalnys team announces the relaunch of the Anti-Corruption Foundation as an international organization with an advisory board including Francis Fukuyama, Anne Applebaum, and the European Parliament member and former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt. Navalny continues to file lawsuits in prison and tries to form a labor union in the facility. In response, penitentiary officials start regularly placing him in solitary confinement over purported disciplinary violations such as failing to properly button his garment or to wash his face at a specified time. Navalny (second left) as he listens to his verdict over a series of extremism charges at the IK-6 penal colony (AFP via Getty Images) 2023 Over 400 Russian doctors sign an open letter to Mr Putin, urging an end to what it calls abuse of Navalny, following reports that he was denied basic medication after getting the flu. His team expresses concern about his health, saying in April he had acute stomach pain and suspected he was being slowly poisoned. 12 March Navalny, a film about the attempt on the opposition leaders life, wins the Oscar for best documentary feature. 26 April Appearing on a videolink from prison during a hearing, Navalny says he was facing new extremism and terrorism charges that could keep him behind bars for the rest of his life. He adds sardonically that the charges imply that Im conducting terror attacks while sitting in prison. 19 June The trial begins in a make-shift courtroom in the Penal Colony No. 6 where Navalny is being held. Soon after it starts, the judge closes the trial for the public and the media despite Navalnys demand to keep it open. 20 July The prosecution in its closing arguments asks the court to sentence Navalny to 20 years in prison, the politician's team reports. Navalny says in a subsequent statement that he expects his sentence to be huge a Stalinist term, referring to the Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. 4 August - Navalny is sentenced to 19 years in prison for extremism. He was accused by the Russian authorities of creating an extremist community, financing extremist activities and a number of other crimes. According to a message on Telegram, he said: I am serving a life sentence. Where life is measured by the duration of my life or the life of this regime. The number from verdict is not for me. It is for you. December - Navalny was transferred this month to a penal colony north of the Arctic Circle. His lawyer said Russian authorities wanted to isolate Navalny ahead of Russias March presidential election. Navalny pictured in hospital in 2020 (Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP) 2024 9 January - Navalny sarcastically heaped praise on the polar conditions at the prison north of the Arctic Circle where he was moved to shortly before Christmas. In a post on the Telegram messaging app Navalny said he had been put in a punishment cell for his attitude as soon as he left quarantine at the so-called Polar Wolf prison colony. He said that walking for half an hour in those temperatures you manage to grow a new nose, new ears and new fingers. 11 January - Navalny appeared before a Supreme Court judge by video link on Thursday to argue for the right to longer meal breaks and access to more books in prison. Wearing a black prison uniform and standing behind bars in a small, bare room, Navalny, 47, appeared gaunt but spoke animatedly, at length and without notes. 17 January - From his penal camp Navalny, said that Putins state would one day crumble along with the post-Soviet elite which he cast as venal, power-hungry and duplicitous. Lies, lies and nothing but lies. It will collapse and crumble. Putins state is not viable. One day we will look at his place and he wont be there. 23 January - Navalny was placed in solitary confinement for 10 days for incorrectly introducing himself to a guard, his spokesperson said. 16 February - Russias prison agency has said that imprisoned opposition leader Navalny has died. He was 47. Additional reporting by agencies Close Related: Alexei Navalnys mother demands Vladimir Putin returns her sons body 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 }} The UK has frozen the assets of six Russian prison bosses in charge of the Arctic penal colony where opposition leader Alexei Navalny died. Western leaders say the blame for Mr Navalnys death lies with the Russian authorities, including Vladimir Putin. Yulia Navalnaya, Mr Navalnys wife, has said she believes her husband was poisoned with Novichok. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion - we will hold them accountable, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said. The UK is the first country to impose sanctions in response to his death, the Foreign Office said. It comes as the Salekhard City Court, the city in which Mr Navalnys body was supposedly transferred after his death, said it will consider the demand of his mother to have his body returned on 4 March. Elsewhere, Vladimir Osechkin, founder of the human rights group Gulag.net claimed to The Times that he believed the Russian authorities kept Mr Navalnys body out in the cold for hours before killing him, potentially with one punch to the heart. Claiming that former prisoners from the Arctic region had previously told of such deaths. The details of Mr Navalnys death are still unclear. 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 }} Halloumi will still legally have to be made by specific Cypriot cheese makers. A top court in the European Union has rejected an attempt to drop the protected status of the dairy-favourite, staving off a challenge on one of Cypruss top exports. Halloumi has a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning that only approved producers from Cyprus can market the cheese under that name. But official product specifications has triggered a backlash from the Cypriot dairy industry. Authorities say the cheese should be manufactured with a blend of cow, ewe and goat milk, gradually displacing cows milk which had in recent years been the dominant ingredient. In a judgement posted on its website, the General Court of the EU dismissed a petition to strip Halloumi of its PDO, petitioned by Cyprus cattle breeders and their affiliated dairy company. Halloumi Cheese being made in Cyprus (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The petition had argued that Cyprus submitted erroneous specifications on Halloumi ingredients in applying for a PDO in 2014. Known for its versatility, the soft rubbery cheese can be eaten raw, grilled, boiled or fried without losing its shape. It is the islands largest export after pharmaceuticals. Other foods with protected status Other European protected foods Feta Cheese (Greece) Raclette (Switzerland) Baklava (Turkey) Bratwurst (Germany) Sauerkraut (Germany) Waterford Blaa (Ireland) Kielbasa (Poland) Halloumi won a PDO from the EU in 2021. Under product specifications, Cyprus intends to gradually increase the amount of ewe and goats milk in the mix to equal that of cows milk. This move has sparked fierce debate from industry stakeholders who say ewe and goats milk is highly seasonal, and could therefore have an impact on production capacity. We dont want our exports to fall, its one of our top exports but this (specifications) will cause problems in production, said Nicos Papakypriakou, general manager of the Cyprus Cattlebreeders Association. At present 10% ewe and goat milk goes into the mix. When authorities decreed a rise to 19% last October, cheesemakers threatened to shut their dairies as there was not enough milk available to sustain unhindered production of all dairy products. 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 }} The mother of dead Russian dissident Alexei Navalny has issued a direct plea to Vladimir Putin for the release of her sons body so she can bury him with dignity. In a video filmed outside the Arctic penal colony where he died on Friday, Lyudmila Navalnaya, 69, said she had been trying to see him for five days but didnt even know where he was being kept. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexeis body be released immediately so that I can bury him in a humane way, she said from the village of Kharp, some 1,200 miles northeast of Moscow, where it is minus 10C. Russian opposition leader Navalny was critical of Putin and so became the victim of repeated aggression from the state (Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty) The fierce critic of the Russian president died last week, aged 47, sparking outrage from Western leaders and Navalnys supporters who accuse Mr Putin of being responsible for snuffing out the most significant beacon of opposition to his leadership, in the run-up to next months presidential elections. Russian authorities have said the cause of Navalnys death is still unknown and refused to release his body for two weeks while they carry out chemical examinations, members of his team said on Monday, raising fears he may have been poisoned, having survived a previous nerve agent attack in 2020. Ahead of a meeting with EU foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday, Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, released a video in which she vowed to unmask her husbands killers and alleged that the refusal to release his body was part of a cover-up. My husband was unbreakable. And thats precisely why Putin killed him. Shamefully, cowardly, without ever daring to look him in the eye or just say his name, Ms Navalnaya said. And just as shamefully and cowardly, they are now hiding his body, not showing it to his mother, not giving it back, and pathetically lying and waiting for traces of another Putin novichok to disappear. Alexei Navalny's wife pledges to continue his work and 'fight for country' in defiant new video Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected the allegations of a cover-up, telling reporters that these are absolutely unfounded, insolent accusations about the head of the Russian state. But Ms Navalnaya retorted on Tuesday: I dont care how the killers press secretary comments on my words. Give Alexeis body back and let him be buried with dignity. Do not prevent people from saying goodbye to him. And I really ask all journalists who may still ask questions: dont ask about me, ask about Alexei. Meanwhile, there was uproar on Tuesday when X/Twitter briefly banned her social media account. Yulia set up her account on Monday, days after Navalnys death was announced, and has since used it to commit to holding Mr Putin to account. However, the account disappeared and was replaced with a message indicating that it had been suspended because it had broken the sites rules, before reappearing an hour later. X/Twitter said the suspension had been in error. Her powerful plea came as the Kremlin initiated a new criminal case against Oleg Navalny, the brother of Alexei, according to Russian media. The politician was pronounced dead by the Russian prison service last week (Getty) The reports did not say under which article of the criminal code the case had been opened but said police were searching for Oleg, who was already on the wanted list in connection with another matter. In 2014, he was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison for fraud in a case Kremlin critics said was trumped up and designed to pile pressure on his late brother. The move signals the Kremlins intention to continue the pressure on his family and supporters as they seek to mourn the dissident. According to monitoring group OVD-Info, nearly 400 people had been detained at Navalny vigils in 39 cities across Russia as of Monday morning. International pressure continued to ramp up on Tuesday, with the White House announcing a new package of sanctions against Russia, set to go into effect imminently. The administration said the package would be released on Friday. US president Joe Biden has blamed Mr Putin for Navalnys death, noting that while Washington was unsure what took place, it was a consequence of something that Putin and his thugs did. Meanwhile, Italy, Poland, France, Belgium and the European Union itself became the latest powers to summon Russias respective ambassadors over Navalnys death. Mr Putin, who famously has avoided speaking Navalnys name, has not commented publicly on the matter. However, on Monday he signed a decree promoting a number of law enforcement and military officials, including Valery Boyarinev, the first deputy chief of the State Penitentiary Service who was accused of torturing Navalny in his final stint in the Siberian jail. Putin has famously avoided speaking Alexei Navalnys name (AP) Mr Boyarinev, who received the rank of colonel-general, has been accused by Navalnys team of personally ordering restrictions on the opposition leader. Initially a nationalist politician, Navalny rose to fame as an anti-corruption campaigner who soon began to take aim at madman Mr Putin and his regime of crooks and thieves, fomenting protests against the Kremlin before managing to secure 27 per cent of the vote in tightly controlled Moscow mayoral elections in 2013. Following repeated arrests, investigations, and criminal proceedings, Navalny was finally evacuated to Germany in a coma after being poisoned with novichok in Russia. Upon his return in 2021, he was arrested at the airport and sentenced to two and half years of a formerly suspended jail term for alleged fraud. The following year, he was sentenced to nine years on charges of spending donations to his Anti-Corruption Foundation on extremism and personal needs. Already listed by Amnesty International as a prisoner of conscience, he was sentenced to a further 19 years on a raft of extremism charges in 2023. He went missing for three weeks in December before turning up at the notorious Arctic penal colony, where he was to die only weeks later. 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 }} Polish authorities voiced grave concerns after slogans praising Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war against Ukraine appeared at Polish farmers protests. The Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that it believed extreme groups were trying to take over the farmers protest movement perhaps under the influence of Russian agents. On Tuesday, one tractor at a protest in the southern region of Silesia carried a Soviet flag and a banner that said: Putin, put things in order with Ukraine, Brussels, and our rulers. Interior minister Marcin Kierwinski called the banner scandalous and said that it was immediately secured by police, and that prosecutors were also investigating. There will be no consent to such criminal activities, he said. The public promotion of a totalitarian system can be punished with up to three years in prison under Polish law. Putin (via REUTERS) Poland, a member of Nato and the EU and located along Ukraines western border, has been a staunch supporter of Kyiv since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, accepting an unlimited numbers of refugees and providing Ukraine with weaponry. With memories of past oppression by Moscow rooted deeply in generational memory, Polish people are largely supportive of Ukraine. But tensions have been growing as Polish farmers blame imports of Ukrainian grain and other food for pushing down prices. Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who have protesting competition from Ukraine as well as EU environmental policies, which they say will increase their production costs. In Poland, they have also blockaded the border with Ukraine, and some spilled Ukrainian grain from freight trains on Tuesday - an act that was strongly denounced by Ukrainian officials. This aerial view taken on February 20, 2024 shows Polish farmers with their tractors and vehicles blocking a highway (AFP via Getty Images) The Foreign Ministry in Warsaw said it notes with the greatest concern the appearance of anti-Ukrainian slogans and slogans praising Vladimir Putin and the war he is waging during recent blockades. The ministry called on the protest organisers to identify and eliminate from their movement the handful of initiators, arguing that it was necessary for the countrys interest. The current situation of Polish farmers is the result of Vladimir Putins aggression against Ukraine and the disruption of the global economy, not because Ukrainians are defending themselves against the aggression, the Foreign Ministry said. Farmers are protesting across the European Union, saying they are facing rising costs and taxes, red tape, excessive environmental rules and competition from cheap food imports. Demonstrations have been taking place for weeks in countries including France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Italy and Greece. 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 still wants to fully conquer Ukraine and impose regime change in the belief that Russias greater numbers in weaponry and soldiers will prevail at the end, according to Western officials. A series of successes on the frontline, the capture of Avdiivka in the Donbas most notable, and 47bn economic and military aid package for Ukraine blocked in the US Congress, is said to have buoyed the Russian presidents hopes of total occupation. We do not believe Russia has given up on its maximalist goals of subjugating Ukraine, said a senior official as the war enters its third year. Moscow is currently in control of a fifth of Ukraine including the separatist republics in the east and Crimea. The fresh assessment comes as an opinion poll showed rising pessimism across Europe about the outcome of the war, with only 10 per cent believing that Ukraine can achieve victory. The study, based on polling in 12 countries for the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), a Berlin-based think tank, also found that almost four times that number think that Ukraine must accept a compromise settlement without regaining all territory lost to the Russian invasion. There is also widespread concern in Ukraine and its European allies about what the possible return of Donald Trump to the White House would mean for Ukraine. Mr Trump had, in the past, declared that he would accept the Russian annexation of Crimea, and there is apprehension that he may force Kyiv to accept a peace deal by threatening to cut off military aid. While seeking to establish Russian control over Ukraine by force, the Kremlin does not appear to have a road map to achieve that goal, according to the assessment. We do not believe Russia has a meaningful plan beyond continuing to fight in the expectation that Russian manpower and equipment numbers ill eventually tell, the Western officials said. The Russian military still seems prepared to sacrifice lives of troops in mass attacks. Nato estimates puts Russian casualties at Avdiivka and along the eastern frontline at more than a thousand a day killed and injured. But one glaring problem Russia faces, Western officials said, was that it cannot produce enough arms and ammunition domestically to meet the needs in the war, say the officials, due to sanctions denying access to Western components, raising cost and causing severe delays. International restrictions are having a huge adverse effect on developing new systems and repairing old ones, he added. This, in turn, will have long-term consequences for the quality of weapons produced. Such are the extreme challenges in obtaining sufficient equipment and ammunition that Russia has been requisitioning military equipment originally intended for delivery to foreign powers. This is believed to refer to a statement by an Indian parliamentary committee in March last year which revealed that that the Indian Air Force will not receive an expected major delivery of spare parts for Su-30MKI and Mig-29 fighter jets. India has, however, had similar problems with weapons orders it had in place with Ukraine not being delivered following the Russian invasion of the country in February 2022. Russia, meanwhile, has significantly increased import of missiles and drones from Iran and North Korea. Last October, the US administration said as many as 1,000 North Korean shipping containers bearing equipment and munitions had been sent to Russia in recent weeks. The American reports were backed by the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi), think tank in London which said: Russia has likely begun shipping North Korean munitions at scale. US security analysts also say that Iran has supplied hundreds of missiles, including short-range ballistic ones, to Moscow, including Fateh-110s which can hit targets at a distance of between 185 and 435 miles. The Kremlin is establishing a war economy with plants commandeered towards arms production with 7.5 per cent of GDP channelled to defence. More than 86bn has been set aside for defence for 2024, compared to Ukraines 34.7bn The EU has agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia to target individuals and businesses suspected of assisting Moscow in the war. The list contains nearly 200 entities and individuals. The Belgian government, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, said the package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. The EU has, however, failed to hit its target of supplying a million artillery shells to Ukraine by March this year by nearly half. Ukrainian defence minister Rustem Umerov recently referred to his countrys artillery ammunition deficit as "critical" in a letter to the European Union, urging its national leaders to do more to bolster supplies. He stressed that Ukraines "absolute critical daily minimum requirement" was 6,000 artillery shells, but his forces were able to fire just 2,000 a day. 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 }} Russia is being allowed to make significant advances in Ukraine because of delays in arms deliveries from Western nations, the besieged countrys president Volodymyr Zelensky warned. Russia has captured the key strategic city of Avdiivka in recent days and has also amassed troops at several points along the 1,500km frontline, Mr Zelensky said in his nightly address late on Monday, adding that these forces are apparently aiming to pounce on any perceived defensive weaknesses among Ukrainian forces. The situation is extremely difficult in several parts of the frontline, where Russian troops have amassed maximum reserves. They are taking advantage of the delays in aid to Ukraine, Mr Zelensky said in his address, calling the concerns very tangible issues. He admitted Ukraine is facing a deficit of artillery. There is a need for frontline air defence and for a longer range of our weapons, the Ukrainian president said. Ukraine gave up its hold on Avdiivka in Donetsk on Saturday as it pulled out troops who were at risk of being completely surrounded by Russian forces, and facing heavy artillery shelling attacks. Vladimir Putin celebrated Russias capture of Avdiivka and said his troops will continue to attack the country to build on their battlefield victories in the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Avdiivka is Russias biggest battlefield success, though it has been highly costly, since the capture of Bakhmut by its private Wagner mercenaries in May 2023. "As for the overall situation in Avdiivka, this is an absolute success, I congratulate you. It needs to be built on," Mr Putin told his defence minister Sergei Shoigu in the Kremlin. That development, he said, must be well-prepared, provided with personnel, weapons, equipment and ammunition. "It seems to be self-evident, but nevertheless I draw your attention to it." Russia managed to capture the Ukrainian city after launching multiple attacks since October last year, and not only exhausted its heavy stockpiles of artillery shells in the process, but also lost 30,000 soldiers to death or injuries, according to Kyiv. Lack of ammunition hampered Ukraines fight against Russian forces. Avdiivka would not have fallen had Kyiv been given weapons by the US Congress which it had held up in a large aid package instead of clearing it, Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said. "We wouldnt (have lost) Avdiivka if we had all the artillery ammunition that we needed to defend it. Russia does not intend to pause or withdraw Once Avdiivka is under their control, they undoubtedly will choose another city and begin to storm it," Mr Kuleba told CNN. Ukrainian troops, he said, were "making miracles...but the reason they have to sacrifice themselves and die is that someone is still debating a decision. I want everyone to remember that every day of debate in one place means another death in another place". Mr Shoigu said his troops launched up to 460 strikes on Avdiivka every day, firing up to about 200 metric tons of explosives. We got the enemy in such a state that it was forced to flee the unbearable conditions," he said. The situation for Ukraine, however, is not catastrophic despite the critical ammunition supplies, said Oleksiy Danilov, the head of Ukraines National Security and Defence Council. "We fight and will continue to fight. We have only one request to our partners: to help with weapons, with ammunition, and with air defence." 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 }} Lithuania decided Wednesday to seal off another two of its six checkpoints with Belarus as of next month, amid growing tensions with its eastern neighbor, an ally of Russia. This brings the total of closed border crossings into the Baltic country to four. The Lavoriskes and Raigardas checkpoints will stop functioning on March 1, as all the traffic will be diverted to the remaining two at the villages of Medininkai and Salcininkai. Vilnius also decided to suspend the movement of pedestrians and cyclists through the last remaining checkpoints. Tensions on NATOs and the European Unions borders spiked after Belarus took in thousands of Russias military mercenaries. It has also been accused of pushing Middle Eastern and African migrants into Europe, despite various forms of barriers having been put up. Wednesday's decision was fueled "by the risks associated with the increased activities of the Belarusian intelligence and security services against Lithuania and our citizens, Lithuania's Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite told reporters. Large resources are needed to control flows, prevent smuggling, ensure international sanctions, and reduce traffic safety risks," she added. The number of permits issued to Belarusian and Lithuanian carriers operating regular international bus passenger services will also be gradually reduced, according to an interior ministry statement. Some 3.9 million crossed the Lithuanian-Belarusian border via road border checkpoints last year, 66% of whom were Belarusian citizens. In August 2023, Lithuania closed two border crossings for similar reasons. 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 }} Before the sudden death of her husband Alexei Navalny in a grim Arctic prison last week, Yulia Navalnaya had always played down the suggestion that she would one day take over as leader of Russias opposition. But on Monday, as the 47-year-old widow alternated between rage and grief, she gave a powerful speech signalling that she would be there to help lead a shell-shocked opposition a job fraught with danger. "I want to live in a free Russia, I want to build a free Russia," said the mother-of-two in a video message. Stepping out of the shadow of her dead husband, she called on his supporters to share the rage and stand with her. Filmed from a dimly lit room in an undisclosed location outside of Russia, the message in the video was both emotional and political. "I know it seems that it is no longer possible (to continue the struggle)," she said. "But we need more. To gather all together in one strong fist and hit this crazed regime with it Putin, his friends, bandits in uniform, thieves and murderers who crippled our country. "I urge you to stand next to me," she said in the nine-minute video that has since gathered around five million views. "I ask you to share the rage with me. Rage, anger, hatred towards those who dared to kill our future." Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his wife Yulia attend a hearing at the Lublinsky district court in Moscow, Russia, 23 April 2015 (Reuters) Up until now Ms Navalnaya, a graduate of the prestigious Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, has largely steered clear of public politics, as she stressed her role was to support her husband and hold their family unit together. Daughter of notable scientist Boris Ambrosimov, Ms Navalnaya and Navalny were both once members of the liberal Yabloko party. They met while she was on holiday in Turkey in 1998 and married two years later, going on to have a daughter, Daria, and a son, Zakhar. While always making clear that she shared his anti-Putin views, she had limited her public appearances and statements to key turning points in his life, advocating for his release and humane treatment, before retreating from public view again. Also a former bank employee, she stood by his side for years at protests, attended court hearings, was herself detained several times, and helped Navalny survive and recover from what Western doctors said was a nerve agent poisoning attempt on his life in 2020. She was present in court on 2 February 2021, when Navalny was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison for violating the terms of his parole in a 2014 case for embezzlement. He used his hands to form the shape of a heart as she looked on at him in a glass courtroom cage, her mouth covered with Covid mask. After a judge read the verdict, subtracting the 10 months he had spent under house arrest from his original sentence, Ms Navalanya took off her mask, smiled, waved, and then shrugged. Dont be sad! Everythings going to be alright! Navalny shouted out to her. Should she take on her husbands mantle, Ms Navalnaya would follow a path trodden by activist widows in other parts of the world, from US civil rights campaigner Coretta Scott King to Corazon Aquino of the Philippines. Closer to home, exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya reluctantly stood for president after her husband Syarhei was jailed in 2020. Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, is welcomed by European Council President Charles Michel (Reuters) Continuing Navalnys battle, however, is fraught with difficulty and danger as Moscow will inevitably be watching Ms Navalnayas every move. Any attempt to lead the opposition from within Russia is almost certain to lead to arrest, but any leader doing so from abroad would be cast by the Putin administration as a foreign puppet controlled by Western intelligence. "If (Navalnaya) does this in Russia, she will have a high chance of ending up where her late husband ended up," Alexei Levinson, head of sociocultural research at Russian pollster Levada Center, told Reuters. "If she does this from abroad, the effect will be the same as for all the rest of those who somehow try to influence the processes taking place in Russia from abroad, and in my opinion, do not achieve very much." Tatiana Stanovaya, founder of the RPolitik analysis firm, said Ms Navalnayas statement was "an unambiguous bid for an independent political role". "A great deal will depend on what she has to offer. Not as the widow of a remarkable politician tortured to death, but as an independent figure," said Ms Stanovaya. "Will she be able to find her own political style, her content, and a team that will not alienate people? Time will tell." Additional reporting by agencies 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 Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in the Kafr Sousa district in Syrias capital Damascus on Wednesday, killing two people, Syrian state media and a security source said. A military source cited by Syrian state TV said the strike at about 9:40 a.m. (0640 GMT) wounded a number of other people, identifying the dead as civilians. Images published by Syrian state media showed the charred side of a multi-storey building. The security source said the attack did not achieve its aims. The neighbourhood hosts residential buildings, schools and Iranian cultural centres, and lies near a large, heavily-guarded complex used by security agencies. The district was struck in an Israeli attack in February 2023 that killed Iranian military experts. Witnesses heard several back-to-back explosions. The blasts scared children at a nearby school and ambulances rushed to the area, the witnesses told Reuters. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. (AFP via Getty Images) Irans semi-official Student News Network said no Iranian citizens were killed in the strike. On Wednesday afternoon, a Reuters witness heard another large blast in the capital that shook the windows of homes. Local Syrian outlet Sham FM said several explosions were heard in the capital without specifying the cause. Iran has been a major backer of President Bashar al-Assad during Syrias nearly 12-year-old conflict. Its support for Damascus and the Lebanese group Hezbollah has drawn regular Israeli air strikes meant to curb Tehrans extraterritorial military power. Those strikes have ramped up in line with flaring regional tensions since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, with more than half a dozen Iranian Revolutionary Guards officers killed in suspected Israeli strikes on Syria since December. As a result, the Guards have scaled back deployment of their senior officers in Syria and have planned to rely more on allied Shiite militia to preserve their sway there, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters earlier this month. Iran, a backer of Hamas, has sought to stay out of the conflict itself even as it supports groups that have entered the fray from Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq and Syria - the so-called Axis of Resistance that is hostile to Israeli and U.S. interests. The war in Gaza, layered over the destabilising shockwaves of Russias invasion of Ukraine, has pushed the world to the very brink. The volatility of the Middle East and Red Sea region and the subsequent rising anger at the West are reaching levels possibly not seen since the lead-up to 9/11. A devastating Israeli ground offensive on Rafah in southern Gaza, which is the last refuge for civilians in the besieged strip, would likely trigger a humanitarian crisis and a death toll of unimaginable dimensions. Since there is nowhere to go, it may see Palestinian families forced into Egypt, which would violate a decades-old peace treaty with Cairo and, to quote the Norwegian Refugee Council, would be a serious breach of international law, amounting to an atrocity crime. At the same time, an offensive would threaten the lives of the remaining 136 hostages still in the hands of Gazas militant factions some of whom may already be dead. An image of the ERS-2 satellite as it heads towards Earth (HEO/ ESA) 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 }} An out-of-control satellite has fallen to Earth, nearly three decades after it launched. The ERS-2 satellite, which served as an observation platform after launching in 1995, landed in the Pacific Ocean between Alaska and Hawaii on Wednesday. The European Space Agency (ESA) said the risks associated with the two-tonne satellite were very low, however there was still a chance that fragments could hit populated areas. Mirko Albani from ESAs Earth Observation Ground Segment Department said: Its worth highlighting that none of the elements that might re-enter the atmosphere (and reach the surface) are radioactive or toxic. The predicted time for the satellite entering the Earths atmosphere was originally 3.49pm GMT (10.49 EST) on Wednesday, however it remained orbiting the planet for up to an hour. You can follow all the latest news, updates and developments of the ERS-2 satellite as it heads towards Earth in our live blog below. 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 }} A scoping paper on how disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) will be for the Irish workforce is being undertaken by the Government. The Irish Governments chief economist John McCarthy said that AI is being viewed as the fourth industrial revolution and will be transformative for the Irish economy. The Department of Finance and the Department of Enterprise are examining the effect the new technology could have, and are working with the team at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that published research in January indicating that 40% of jobs globally will be affected by AI. The Department is expected to publish a scoping paper on the issue by the summer. Mr McCarthy said that digitalisation was evolving rapidly, including the move to remote working during the pandemic and card payments, and now AI was coming at us thick and fast. If you look at previous industrial revolutions, from the spinning wheel to the computer, and economists see AI really as the fourth industrial revolution, there will be job losses, there will be job gains, he said on Wednesday. Some occupations will no longer exist, as was the case back when the spinning wheel was invented, so that will happen. From a policy perspective, the importance is ensuring a smooth transition so that people losing jobs, gain jobs, that they have the requisite skills to move from one sector to the other. Is it a case of complementing labour or substituting labour? We all got computers and suddenly became more productive. We got the spinning wheel 100-200 years ago, we produced more jumpers, we became more productive. The worry is with this new technology, are more jobs going to be lost than are gained? The answer is, nobody knows. The IMF research indicated that in advanced economies, the proportion of jobs that could be affected by AI is higher (60%). I think what we can definitively say about about AI, is that it is going to be transformative. Lets hope its transformative good, and policy has a role to play here, but you cant rule out the possibility of transformative bad, Mr McCarthy said. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Boston was diverted to Denver on Monday after a passenger allegedly saw the wing coming apart. Just about to land in Denver with the wing coming apart on the plane, Kevin Clarke said in a video obtained by CBS News. Cant wait for this flight to be over. Photos of the damaged wing also appeared on Reddit. Sitting right on the wing and the noise after reaching altitude was much louder than normal. I opened the window to see the wing looking like this, user @octopus_hug wrote next to a photo that appeared to show a plane wing with holes in it. How panicked should I be? Do I need to tell a flight crew member? Ill be very relieved once we land, they added. The Reddit user said that another passenger alerted flight attendants to the problem before all the passengers were put on a different plane that landed in Boston early on Tuesday morning. Photo provided by Kevin Clarke shows a United Airlines plane with damage to one of its wings (AP) A United Airlines spokesperson confirmed that the Boeing 757-200 plane, which had 165 passengers on board, was diverted safely to Denver on Monday to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft. United Flight 354 diverted to Denver yesterday afternoon to address an issue with the slat on the wing of the aircraft, the spokesperson told The Independent in a statement. The flight landed safely and we arranged for another aircraft to take our customers to Boston. Boeing has been under scrutiny since a door panel on a different kind of aircraft, a 737 Max 9, blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. The plane was diverted safely to Denver (AP) Several passengers on board were injured in the incident, which grounded all Boeing 737 Max 9s and prompted investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Transportation Safety Board, into the aircraft manufacturer and Spirit AeroSystems, which made the doorplug. Reports released since have suggested the plane did not have the critical bolts it needed to keep the doorplug in place when it left the factory. Following the incident, Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, which operate 79 of the planes, said they, too, found loose bolts on some of their aircrafts. Earlier this month, the head of the FAA pledged to use more people to monitor aircraft manufacturing and hold Boeing accountable for any safety rule violations. 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 }} Londons BT Tower is set to be reimagined as a landmark in the capitals hotel scene as part of a 275m deal with US hotel developers MCR Hotels. The telecom giant announced on Wednesday (21 February) that the Grade II listed building had been sold as part of a simplification of BT Groups property portfolio. It has been over 10 years since the Tower was vital to telecommunications traffic out of London, as network operations shifted to digital and the structures microwave aerials were removed. The BT Tower was Londons tallest structure for 16 years (Getty Images) Brent Mathews, property director at BT Group said: The BT Tower sits at the heart of London and weve been immensely proud to be the owners of this important landmark since 1984. Its played a vital role in carrying the nations calls, messages and TV signals, but increasingly were delivering content and communication via other means. This deal with MCR will enable BT Tower to take on a new purpose, preserving this iconic building for decades to come. Prime Minister Harold Wilson opened the UK communication hub in 1965, complete with a revolving top-floor restaurant, open to the public until a suspected IRA explosion in 1971. Plans are in place for the 177m-tall building, originally named the Post Office Tower, to be preserved as an iconic London hotel the first leisure use of the landmark since the 70s. The revolving restaurant on the 34th floor in 1965 (Getty Images) The tower was the citys tallest structure until 1980 when the 183m-high NatWest Tower (now Tower 42) was built. Tyler Morse, CEO and owner of MCR Hotels, said: We are proud to preserve this beloved building and will work to develop proposals to tell its story as an iconic hotel, opening its doors for generations to enjoy. MCR already has over 150 hotels in its portfolio, including the historic TWA Hotel, The Lexington and The New Yorker. The hotel firm said BT will take a number of years to vacate the premises due to the complex equipment at the site, with payment for the deal to be made over multiple years. 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 }} Japan is set to introduce a six-month visa for remote workers or digital nomads who earn at least 10 million yen (53k) annually. The Immigration Services Agency of Japan (ISA) announced the initiative earlier this month which is scheduled to launch by the end of March. Remote workers from 49 countries and territories are eligible under this initiative, The Japan Times reported. Eligible individuals, including the self-employed, can stay in Japan under the specified activities visa category, provided their home countries have tax treaties and visa waiver agreements with Japan, such as the US, Australia, and Singapore. The newly introduced six-month visa for digital nomads in Japan will not allow for immediate extensions after expiration. According to Travel Daily Media, individuals wishing to reapply can do so six months after they depart from Japan. Visa holders are allowed to bring their spouses and children with them to Japan. However, they must have private health insurance. Furthermore, individuals on this visa will not be issued a certificate or residence card in Japan, ISA stated. Japan has become part of an expanding group of countries and territories, including Estonia, Mexico, Portugal, and Taiwan, offering similar programs for digital nomads. The Strait Times reports that this move by Japan is aimed at drawing in more remote workers and stimulating its tourism sector as part of a wider strategy. Japan envisions that digital nomads will contribute to innovation and invigorate the nations ageing workforce. Meanwhile, the announcement of the digital nomad visa by Japan has sparked a lively discussion on Reddit, especially in the r/DigitalNomad subreddit and the r/Japan page, attracting hundreds of comments. However, many prospective digital nomads also noted that this new visa, similar to other digital nomad visas, imposes significant eligibility requirements. The Japan Digital Nomad Association has been advocating for the government to adopt a more proactive stance and formalise practices that have gained popularity since 2020. Ryo Osera, an executive officer of the association expressed support for the newly introduced digital nomad visa, according to ABC News, but is advocating for the reduction of restrictions in light of more lenient policies available in other Asian countries. Its not competitive at this moment but Japan is now a really like popular destination, Mr Osera said. We are still talking to the government. It is a really big step but its not yet enough. According to data from Nomad List, a website catering to remote workers that analysed over 300,000 check-ins in its database, Japan emerged as the top-growing destination for remote work in 2023, as reported by CNBC. They dont have wholesale, open immigration that we are used to or that we would recognise, Shiro Armstrong, director of the Australia-Japan Research Centre at Australian National University told ABC News. But there are about 2 million expats or foreigners living on various visas in Japan and 2 million is not insignificant. Theyve got such huge public debt. Government debt dwarfs anything we have ever seen, he said. They need to raise revenue. So if they bring in foreigners on [a lower tax rate], it would be pretty interesting to see how the population responds. In South Korea, digital nomad visa applicants must have an annual income exceeding 84.96 million won (52k) and be employed by a foreign company, allowing them and their families to stay for up to two years. Malaysia offers a nomad pass for up to two years to individuals earning over $32,500 (25k) annually, provided they work in digital fields such as IT and digital marketing and have health insurance. Taiwans Gold Card is not explicitly a digital nomad visa but grants unlimited entry, work, and residency rights for three years, with applicants evaluated on their professional skills. Thailands Long Term Resident Visa can accommodate digital nomads for up to 10 years. A prolific egg collector was found to have illegally hoarded thousands of rare birds eggs in Norfolk. Daniel Lingham, 71, of Newton St Faith pleaded guilty to five offences on Tuesday 20 February including taking eggs from a non-schedule 1 wild bird namely a Nightjar and possessing an egg or its parts of a non-schedule 1 wild bird. The 71-year-old, who has two previous convictions for similar crimes, was caught after on a wildlife trap camera filmed him stealing two eggs from a Nightjar nest in Holt Lowes. A police search found 2995 eggs at his home, including some of non-native species and 2429 native birds eggs protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act. The NHS in England will roll out Marthas Rule from April to give patients and families access to a rapid review if they are worried about a condition getting worse. The escalation process, which formalises access to a critical care team for a second opinion, will be available 24/7 and will be advertised throughout hospitals. Health secretary Victoria Atkins discussed what the rule will mean as she made an appearance on Sky News on Wednesday 21 February. The move follows the death of 13-year-old Martha Mills in 2021. She developed sepsis while under the care of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London. 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 }} The World Food Program has suspended what it described as life-saving aid deliveries into northern Gaza over safety concerns. The United Nations agency said in a statement on Tuesday that the decision had not been taken lightly, but added that the pause would continue until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions. Gaza is hanging by a thread and WFP must be enabled to reverse the path towards famine for thousands of desperately hungry people, the agency said. The suspension came despite warnings from the agency that people in Gaza are already dying from hunger-related causes, and that its teams on the ground were witnessing unprecedented levels of desperation. Food and safe water have become incredibly scarce and diseases are rife, compromising women and childrens nutrition and immunity and resulting in a surge of acute malnutrition. People are already dying from hunger-related causes, the WFP said in its statement. Israels war in Gaza, which was launched in response to a Hamas attack that killed 1,200 people, has caused a humanitarian catastrophe in the beleaguered territory. The UN has warned that 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. The WFP had already suspended its aid deliveries for three weeks prior to Tuesdays decision due to an Israeli strike on a UNWRA truck. When it attempted to resume deliveries to northern Gaza again, it said the convoy was surrounded by crowds of hungry people, and staff were forced to fend off attempts to climb aboard the trucks. When it reached Gaza City it came under gunfire. A second convoy faced complete chaos and violence due to the collapse of civil order, the WFP said. It added that several trucks were looted and a truck driver was beaten. Even before the suspension of aid deliveries, northern Gaza was facing an acute food crisis. In a report released a day before the announcement, the WFP and UNICEF, the UN childrens agency, found that around 15 per cent of children under 2 years of age in the north were acutely malnourished. Of these, almost 3 per cent suffer from severe wasting, the most life-threatening form of malnutrition, which puts young children at highest risk of medical complications and death unless they receive urgent treatment, the report noted. The Gaza Strip is poised to witness an explosion in preventable child deaths which would compound the already unbearable level of child deaths in Gaza, said UNICEF Deputy Executive Director for Humanitarian Action and Supply Operations, Ted Chaiban. Weve been warning for weeks that the Gaza Strip is on the brink of a nutrition crisis. If the conflict doesnt end now, childrens nutrition will continue to plummet, leading to preventable deaths or health issues which will affect the children of Gaza for the rest of their lives and have potential intergenerational consequences. 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. Engage XR, an Irish virtual-reality firm, has signed its largest contract to date with a company in the Middle East. The seven-figure contract, a partnership with PwC Middle East, will mean Engage XR can work with a large company in the education, training and development sector. Engage XR is set to develop a private MetaWorld for this business in order to support its delivery of language-learning programmes, as well as ongoing professional development. This initiative represents a significant leap forward in harnessing the power of spatial computing technologies to revolutionise the education and professional development landscape, said Sally Jeffery, PwCs global education and skills practice leader. She said the new collaboration will introduce immersive learning experiences to improve language acquisition and promote the continuous development of new skills. Engage XR has also extended its relationship with a leading US bank. The firm previously worked with the financial institution last year for employee onboarding through an event on the companys Engage platform. This additional six-figure contract will continue employee onboarding, together with ongoing development of the platform being provided to the bank. The Irish firm has said there were delays in its previous financial year linked to the signing of the contract, and said some revenues the group hoped to be recognised in 2023 will instead be recognised in the current year. Its sales pipeline is continuing to grow, according to the company. Chief executive David Whelan said the business expects education, training and development to be the primary driver of revenue in 2024. The signing of our biggest-ever contract underlines the progress we are making in the education, training and development verticals. It also extends our presence in the Middle East, he said. Mr Whelan said he expects to see the benefits of the companys partnership with Lenovo throughout this year. At CES earlier this month, we released Engage on Lenovos VRX headset with additional AI features and abilities, receiving positive feedback, he said, adding that the group is well placed to take advantage of a rise in interest in spatial computing. In December, the company said it expects revenue for the year to be between 3.6m and 3.8m. Former Permanent TSB boss David Guinane wanted hearings into his suspected role in the tracker mortgage scandal to be held in public in order to clear his name, the Inquiry has been told in the first day of proceedings in the landmark case. Mr Guinane, who led PTSB from November 2007 to February 2012, is the first individual to face enforcement action over the tracker mortgage scandal from any financial institution. He is suspected of breaking consumer protection rules during the tracker mortgage scandal by denying access to mortgage rates that customers should have been entitled to. All of the main retail banks, including PTSB, have previously been found liable for their corporate roles in the tracker scandal and agreed to pay record fines totalling hundreds of millions of euro to the Central Bank. However, Mr Guinane is challenging the case against him and was determined that the inquiry should be public, his lawyer, Paul McGarry SC, told the inquiry which is headed by British lawyer Peter Hinchcliffe. In November 2021, when the Central Bank opened the Inquiry into Mr Guinane, it said that it had reasonable grounds to suspect that a person formerly concerned in the management of Permanent TSB participated in the commission of a suspected prescribed contravention of the Consumer Protection Code 2006. This code required the lender to ensure that in all its dealings with customers and within the context of its authorisation it acts honestly, fairly and professionally in the best interests of its customers and the integrity of the market. At a hearing held last October the Central Bank said it believes that between January 2009 and April 2010 PTSB only gave a favourable tracker rate to borrowers who complained or queried the interest they were being charged after coming off a temporary fixed deal. Today's News in 90 Seconds - February 21st According to the hearing which kicked off on February 21st, PTSBs decision impacted 10,000 tracker loans, issued from 2004 to 2007. Mr McGarry described the Inquiry into his client as truly extraordinary. He said this is occurring despite the involvement of other Irish banks in the scandal, adding that it is not unknown to seek a scapegoat or a person to be the face of a scandal. He said just because this happens does not make it right or proper, adding that Mr Guinane was never subject of any investigation prior to this by any regulatory authorities in Ireland or the UK. He also said that the main question of the inquiry into Mr Guinane involves a three word email sent on January 19 2009 that read Ok with that. Mr McGarry said that it is apparent from the three words that he was following a recommendation put together by others and pointed to the misconceived nature of the charge against his client. Mr McGarry said that more than 15 years have passed since the events in question, with Mr Guinane contending it is unfair for such an inquiry to take place in 2024. Permanent TSB was fined 21m for overcharging its tracker customers after a lengthy and complex investigation by the Central Bank into the entire banking sector found numerous such breaches. The firm has facilities in Galway, Athlone and Dublin US medical technology company Medtronic expects up to 40 redundancies across its sites in Ireland, after announcing it is leaving the ventilator market. In a market announcement accompanying financial results for its third quarter, the company said it had decided to stop manufacturing ventilators, a market it described as increasingly unprofitable. In a statement to the Irish Independent, a spokeswoman for Irish-headquartered Medtronic said it has just entered a consultation phase with employees and had asked them to consider the option of moving to other Medtronic sites or taking a voluntary redundancy package. While the number of staff affected is not clear as yet, she said the company expected no more than 40 redundancies out of its 4,000 employees in Ireland across its five sites. The decision to wind down the ventilator business is not made lightly and there is a great deal of consideration for our employees and how they are affected, she said. While there may be impacts, we will work to redeploy employees currently in the ventilator business to roles in other parts of Medtronic where possible, or offer comprehensive transitional support. Our Mervue site in Galway, which currently manufactures ventilators, will continue to be an important facility for Medtronic. Since 2020, our product lines at the site have diversified and we will continue to look for new investment opportunities for this location. Ireland will remain a significant location for Medtronic well into the future, the spokeswoman added. We have a strong and long-standing presence here, celebrating 40 years in 2022. Ireland is our corporate headquarters, and a significant manufacturing and R&D hub. Medtronic also said it was committed to serving the needs of its current customers and patients and would honour its ventilator service contracts. It expects existing manufacturers, who account for the majority of the market, will be able to meet customer demand for ventilators in the future. According to the statement, Medtronic has decided to retain the remaining Patient Monitoring and Respiratory Interventions businesses and combine them into one business unit called Acute Care and Monitoring. This new unit would focus on airway management and patient-monitoring technologies, helping clinicians reduce serious respiratory complications. In March 2020, during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, Medtronic announced it was ramping up production of ventilators at its factory in Galway. At the time, Medtronic had over 250 employees dedicated to ventilator manufacturing and had said there were plans to more than double that number. Exiting the ventilator market will be seen as a further illustration of Medtronics determination to focus on giving a return to investors. Last month Geoff Martha, its CEO, said the company was closing at least five manufacturing sites, consolidating distribution centres, and would no longer do business with about 200 suppliers. Medtronic, which also has facilities in Athlone and Dublin, reported worldwide revenue of nearly $8.1bn, an increase of 4.7pc. The increased revenue reflected strong growth in areas of the business, including diabetes, cardiac and core spine, as well as strength in its international markets. The New York Stock Exchange-listed company, which has a market valuation of over $114.6bn, has a global team of over 95,000 people across 150 countries. Medtronics technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools and patient monitoring systems. Addresses in Dublin, Cork, Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan have been targeted A new crackdown on Fire Stick dodgy box sellers has been launched, with addresses in Dublin, Cork, Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan targeted. Its the third wave of action against dodgy box operations, with authorities claiming that previous crackdowns are working to shut down illegal streaming services. A dodgy box is a device that can bypass pay-TV copyright controls illegally. It is typically sold by individuals who then also sell codes to access illegally streamed premium sport, movies and other television content. The content is often sold on a subscription basis that costs a fraction of the contents regular pricing. One of the most common devices used in the process is Amazons Fire Stick plug-in streaming dongle. Amazon has no involvement in the use of the gadget, which is legitimately used to access services such as Netflix, being employed illegally. An EU report into illegal internet protocol television (IPTV) in 2019 found that Ireland has the sixth highest use of dodgy boxes in the EU. The report measured 171,000 people, or 5.1pc of the population, using the service. The content on dodgy boxes is often taken from online broadcast feeds originating in the Middle East or the US, where they are supposed to be geographically locked under copyright restrictions. The organisation leading the crackdown, the Federation Against Copyright Theft (Fact), says that significant financial settlements have been reached with those identified as having stolen revenue from rightsholders. It added that the outstanding few who have not engaged with the process are currently being pursued through the courts. In its current wave of actions, it has issued 22 legal warnings to individuals, in person, by post and by email. It has also warned that those who dont stop selling the devices face criminal prosecution. It claims that the vast majority of illegal services are currently being taken down and that tens of thousands are seeing, or will see, their streams disrupted. In May of last year, 38-year-old Paul OBrien was given a non-custodial sentence for selling Android boxes to 150 customers, charging them 12 per month for codes to watch pay-protected TV, sport and movie content amounting to over 4,000 channels. He was traced through a company that he had registered to his sales operation. In a Belfast court last September, Padraig McVicker was sentenced to eight months in prison and Gary Doherty was given 175 hours community service for the illegal sale of devices used for provision of pirated TV channels and the supply of streaming services. And in October, the Railway Bar pub in Lixnaw, Co Kerry, was ordered by a court to pay damages of 20,000 to Sky for using a dodgy box to show Premier League matches. In Ireland, using a dodgy box is against the law. The Copyright Act of 2000 says that a person who makes, sells, rents or lends or has in his or her possession, custody or control, a protection-defeating device, knowing or having reason to believe that it has been or is to be used to circumvent rights protection measures, or provides information, or offers or performs any service, intended to enable or assist a person to circumvent rights protection measures, shall be guilty of an offence. However, there has been no widespread enforcement of the law against users of dodgy boxes here, despite their popularity. Beyonce has become the first Black woman to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The Grammy-winning artist, 42, claimed her latest record-breaking feat with her new single, Texas Hold Em, after it debuted at No 1. Released on 11 February, the song achieved the number-one slot after just four days of tracking, during which time it was streamed 19.2 million times in the US and downloaded 32,000 times. Beyonce surprised fans during the Super Bowl by releasing the song, along with her other single, 16 Carriages. At the same time, she announced that her debut country album, Renaissance II, would be released on 29 March. The success of Texas Hold Em comes after a row erupted last week over the songs status as a country music song, reviving a decades-long debate over the country music industrys lack of support for Black artists. KYKC country radio station in Oklahoma initially refused to play the song, issuing a curt reply to a fan that we do not play Beyonce on KYKC as we are a country music station. The fan in question then accused the station of blatant racism and discrimination, encouraging fellow Beyonce to email and request the track. KYKC quickly backtracked, claiming it was not aware that Beyonce had released two country songs. Its Facebook account said the station didn't physically have it [the songs]. Now we do. Love it. We initially refused to play it in the same manner if someone requested us to play The Rolling Stones on our country station, KYKCs general manager Roger Harris said. Beyonce grew up in Houston, Texas, one of the heartlands of country music. She previously dabbled in the genre on Daddy Lessons, from her 2016 album Lemonade, and duetted the song (despite objections from conservative country fans) with The Chicks at the 50th annual Country Music Association Awards. The performance came after Daddy Lessons was rejected by the Recording Academys country music committee, meaning it was deemed ineligible for any of the country music Grammy awards. Rapper Lil Nas X experienced similar hurdles with his hit single Old Town Road, which was removed from the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2019 after chart compilers claimed it didnt embrace enough elements of todays country music. Country superstar Billy Ray Cyrus, who guest featured in a remix of the track, was one of the prominent artists backing Lil Nas X. When I got thrown off the charts, Waylon Jennings said to me: Take this as a compliment. [It] means youre doing something great! Only Outlaws are outlawed, he tweeted. Beyonces sister and fellow artist Solange has also featured cowboy themes in her work, most notably in the companion film to her 2019 album, When I Get Home. Growing up here in Texas, in Almeda, youre just going to see Black cowboys on the street, she said at a Q&A in her hometown of Houston. I dont know John Wayne. I dont know his story. I really dont. Weve had to rewrite what Black history means for us since the beginning of time Its not just an aesthetic, this is something that we actually live. With the success of Texas Hold Em, Beyonce has also become the first woman to top both the Hot Country Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hip Songs charts since they were launched in 1958. She has been teasing her new album for some time, appearing at awards ceremonies and public events in recent months dressed in country-style outfits, complete with stetsons. Farmers and landowners are currently responsibly for trees and hedges beside the road. The Government may have to look at supporting farmers to remove Ash Dieback trees from roadsides, according to the Minister with responsibility for forestry. Minister Pippa Hackett said this week that while such support would fall slightly outside her Department's remitis something across Government we may have to look at how they support farmers who may have to do that safely. Farmers and landowners are currently responsibly for trees and hedges beside the road. However, with estimates suggesting that upwards of 80pc of Irelands ash population could succumb to the disease in the coming years, farmers currently face high costs and risks. The Department of Agriculture has previously said the trees are the responsibility of the landowner and land ownership normally extends to the centre of the road, therefore it is the landowner, not the local authority, who is responsible for the trees and hedges beside the road. She also said Ash Dieback had impacted the sector. "This has dampened and dented confidence in forestry as a whole and we don't want to see that." Minister Hackett told the Claire Byrne radio show that of the 23,000 forest owners in Ireland, 6,500 have some ash on their land with two thirds of those with an area of less than 5ha of ash. She said the Department is looking at package to help the restoration of these forests. I am determined to come up with a package for Ash Dieback but we're operating within EU state aid rules. We have been making quite a lot of progress. its longer than I would have liked but I am confident we will come up with something in the short term, but the most important thing is we have to get this right. We've had two previous schemes that farmers have not been entirely happy with. However, she said there was no timeline on the delivery of such a package and that it was taking longer than hoped. IFA has put the cost of dealing with the countrys Ash Dieback trees at 800m to 1bn to address the issue of Ash Dieback and that it will cost 7,000/ha to remove diseased trees. The Minister said there is a payment rate of around 2,000/ha available to landowners to remove affected trees. "We also pay the grant rate to re-grant and that can range from 5,000-7,000/ha. "If I had all the money in the world I'd love to support farmers in this. These farmers will have already received 15-20 years and some are still receiving tax free premia. The State has already paid out. yes the trees have become diseased and have died..." Macra has said that the intergenerational transfer of land is now at crisis point. (Alamy/PA) Just 71 farmers have applied to the Departments Succession Planning Advice Grant, according to new figures obtained by Macra. The grant was introduced to support farmers aged 60 years and above to seek succession planning advice by contributing up to 50pc of vouched legal, accounting and advisory costs, subject to a maximum payment of 1,500. Applications for this grant opened on 19 September 2023 and closed on 31 December 2023. It had been hoped that the scheme would encourage best practice in intergenerational land transfer in order to address generational imbalances in farming. Macra has said that the intergenerational transfer of land is now at crisis point. According to new figures from IFAC, 66pc of farmers are sure that they will still be farming in five years time, 64pc of farmers do not have a successor in place and 33pc of farmers do not have a pension in place. Macra President Elaine Houlihan said: 71 applicants is a disappointing, though not a surprising figure. Farmers do not know what way to turn when it comes to generational land transfer, there has been some outstanding work completed by the Land Mobility Service, we need more. I have written to Minister McConalogue requesting a meeting so that we could engage on the setting up of a generational just transitioning fund for farming, we see governmental intent towards generational renewal, we now need to engage with government to ensure that the next initiative will have considerably more take-up than the succession planning advice grant. In a survey carried out in 2023, it was found that one third of farmers would immediately avail of a succession scheme, one third would consider it and one third had no interest now. One third of farmers want a succession scheme today, that equates to 44,500 farmers, another 44,500 would consider it, creating a cohort of 89,000 farmers, Ms Houlihan continued. What is needed is a generational just transitioning fund for farming. Macra calls upon the Minister for Agriculture, whilst there is still agriculture in Ireland to work with us, this is an issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Rishi Sunak has faced a backlash after he said that farmers do their jobs for love and not money. The Prime Minister made the comments at the National Farmers Union (NFU) conference in Birmingham on Tuesday where he promised that the Tories were on the side of farmers. He told the hundreds of delegates at the event in Birmingham that he recognised the hard work that farmers do. It is an incredible thing you do. You dont do it for the money, for sure. But you do it because you love it. You do it because you feel a responsibility. You do it because its tradition and Im enormously grateful to you for it, he said. He also suggested farmers work to maintain a way of life and to steward our landscape and not for high reward. But in a press conference, Minette Batters, who steps down as the head of the NFU on Wednesday, said that the Prime Minister had been wrong. These are businesses, they dont do it for the love of it, she said. Yes they love it, otherwise they wouldnt be doing it. But they are businesses and we need to have profitable agriculture if we are to deliver on any of these legislative targets. She added: For too long politicians have seen farming as a sort of cottage industry. Mr Sunak was making the first appearance by a prime minister at the annual event since Gordon Brown in 2008, as polling suggests collapse in rural support for the Conservatives. Polling by Survation suggests the party could lose more than half of the 100 most rural seats in England at the election. Speaking in Birmingham, Mr Sunak outlined about 200 million of payments for farming technology, and plans to increase monitoring of the countrys food security, and told farmers that the Conservatives would always be by their side The NFU has said that a Government budget of more than 4 billion is needed between 2025 and 2030 to support farming while meeting the countrys green goals for England and Wales. Mrs Batters said that the Welsh Labour Governments recent proposals to reform agriculture, which would involve farmers turning over 20 per cent of their farms to tree planting and wildlife habitat, were unworkable. Farmers have taken to the streets to protest against the plans, which could lead to the loss of 5,500 rural jobs, 11 per cent of livestock and a nearly 200 million drop in farm income. The Welsh Government is trying to deny our members and their children their farming futures, Mrs Batters said, adding that the plans should be reformed. This is a red line and we will not cross it. The Welsh Government has so far stood by its proposals in the consultation, which ends on March 7. Speaking earlier this week, Mark Drakeford, the First Minister, said that change is unavoidable and it was not up to farmers to decide how subsidies are spent. Mrs Batters said that his comments had made the situation much, much worse and warned that further protests could not be ruled out if the Welsh Government refused to change course. It is absolutely appalling that they can outline those job losses of 5,500 and expect farmers to embrace that and say its OK. Its not OK. Its a red line for us and we wont cross it. So they need to come back to the table. Wanted: An Irish farming experience Oregon ranchers looking to swap saddles for shamrocks The couple are hoping that working on an Irish farm will give them a new perspective and new ideas to bring home to their ranch. The couple dont own a tractor or any farm buildings, and do most of their farm work on horseback. Andrew Hamilton Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 07:00 Two American farmers are hoping to swap working on their Oregan cattle ranch to work for free on an Irish farm next month. Morgane and Sean Chambers are offering their services to any Irish farmer, in exchange for learning how agriculture is practiced in Ireland. Crime New victim comes forward with claims against Bill Kenneally and says detective advised him to drop allegations Navalny death reminds us all of 'repressive and oppressive' regime in Russia - Micheal Martin Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said he believes the Russian State killed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) summoned the Russian Ambassador to Ireland, Yuri Filatov, following Mr Navalnys death in prison last week. The DFA said it summoned the Russian Ambassador to express outrage at the death of Mr Navalny, who was imprisoned in a Siberian penal colony until his death was announced on Friday. Russian authorities stated that he never regained consciousness after collapsing on a walk in the penal colony above the Artic Circle, nearly 2,000km north of Moscow. In a statement the DFA said it summoned the Russian Ambassador yesterday to express outrage at the death in prison of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, reiterate that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership, and call for a full, independent and transparent investigation. Speaking this morning Mr Martin said: We summoned the Ambassador yesterday and we condemned Mr Navalny death because we feel it reflects a very suppressive regime that shuts down any form of dissent and freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. I met with Mr Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, on Monday at the Foreign Affairs consulate, who spoke to us, and it was a very moving speech. I think it reminds us all of the type of regime that is now operating in Russia. We wanted to formally communicate that view shared by the vast majority of Irish people, he told RTEs Morning Ireland. We have already subjected the Russian leadership to the most expansive and hard-hitting sanctions in European history. About 2,000 individuals are now subject to travel bans and asset freeze measures. That will continue and we will communicate that to the Russian ambassador. When asked if he agrees with Mr Navalnys widow that her husband was killed by the Russian State, Mr Martin responded: I do. There is no question about that one. I am not just referring to the immediate situation but rather the progressive savage treatment of him in terms of his imprisonment, movements in the Artic circle, said Mr Martin. There are some harrowing accounts of the latter stages of his detention in terms of the freezing cold in the cells, the lack of exercise has been well articulated in analytical pieces on his imprisonment. His captivity has been chilling in that any individual can be treated in this manner. When we look at the war in Ukraine, that is why many people in the Baltics, Poland, Czech Republic and elsewhere, this is what they fear. They have memories of experiencing this in the past, their parents and grandparents. That is why the war in Ukraine is existential. It is often not fully appreciated in Ireland and this part of the world the degree to which those living closer to Russia fear this kind of a life if Putin is to be successful in expanding. And in increasing his influence in the region and in gaining control. That is why there has been such a collective effort on behalf of those States to resist Putins march. People gather to mourn Alexei Navalny outside the Russian embassy in Warsaw, Poland. Photo: Dawid Zuchowicz/Agencja Wyborcza.pl via REUTERS Mr Navalny, who survived an attempted poisoning with the nerve agent Novichok in 2020, recovered in Germany after the incident, however he was detained by the Kremlin after returning to Russia. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, has demanded the return of her husbands body, however, Russian authorities said they intend on holding it for up to two weeks pending a chemical analysis. "Give back Alexei's body and let him be buried with dignity," she said in a post on social media site X. However, there have been no confirmed whereabouts of the Mr Navalnys body by Russian authorities, despite his mother and lawyer travelling to the penal colony. In her video, Ms Navalnaya accused President Vladimir Putin of killing her husband and said she will continue to fight for a free Russia. The Department of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for comment. Gaza woman appeals to Ireland to help save her cousin (13) after girl hit by rocket shrapnel Sally Herzallah (13) was sheltering in a chalet with around 200 children, according to her cousin, when she was severely injured during a bombardment in Gaza. Sally Herzallah with a male relative Laura Lynott Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 23:18 The cousin of a 13-year-old Palestinian girl seriously injured by rocket shrapnel in Gaza is desperately appealing for help from Ireland to save her life. Car crashes into a wall in Limerick, killing two and leaving two others injuredSeparately, in Co Mayo, a man and a young girl were hospitalised after they were struck by a car, with the man dying this eveningCountrys road death toll now stands at 31, two more than the same period last year The scene where two young men lost their lives on the N69 at Ballyengland outside Askeaton, Co Limerick. Photo: Brendan Gleeson The scene where two young men lost their lives on the N69 at Ballyengland outside Askeaton, Co Limerick. Photo: Brendan Gleeson The two young men who died in the Limerick collision have been named locally as Darragh Dullea from Clonakilty, Co Cork, and Cillian Kirwan from Piltown, Co Kilkenny. Separately, gardai have said a man aged 33 who was seriously injured when a car struck him and a six-year-old girl in Ballina, Co Mayo, earlier on Wednesday has since died in hospital. The three deaths bring to 32 the number of people killed on the roads so far this year, three higher than for the same period in 2023. Both the young men killed in the Limerick crash were second year students at the Salesian Agricultural College in Pallaskenry, Co Limerick. The two young men, aged 20 and 19, were passengers in a vehicle which crashed into a wall on Tuesday evening near the townland of Ballyengland outside Askeaton on the N69 Limerick-Tralee road. Both were pronounced dead despite desperate efforts by paramedics to stabilise their conditions. Two other young men in the car, who were also students of the college, were also injured in the incident. Cllr Patrick Dunphy from Piltown, the home town of Cillian Kirwan, said the community is devastated by the loss. "Another tragic loss of life from the area," he said. Everybody, myself and my constituents, would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the family. Everyone will rally behind the family, he added. The scene where two young men lost their lives on the N69 at Ballyengland outside Askeaton, Co Limerick. Photo: Brendan Gleeson College principal Derek ODonoghue offered his sincere sympathies from both the students and staff to the immediate family and friends of the men who lost their lives. Mr ODonoghue said he wished the two other students in the car, who sustained non-life threatening injuries a good and speedy recovery in University Hospital Limerick (UHL). The third cohort of students are the classmates of those. Our concern goes to those that we will provide support for over the coming days and weeks, he said. He added that the students, who fall under the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) umbrella, were living on campus and taking a Higher Cert in the Agricultural Mechanisation course. The fact that they are residential here means that they are a tighter-knit community of students. Not alone are they in college but all the students live here and go home at the weekends, he added. Mr ODonoghue stressed that TUS counselling support services were on hand at the college to meet students and staff at the campus today following the tragic news. Speaking to RTEs News At One, Mr ODonoghue said all four students had just returned after eight months of placement and were on their final stretch of their two-year course. They had great career prospects ahead of them, a great life ahead of them and, unfortunately for two, it was cut very short last night, he said. It is understood that all four students were in the same year. The driver and another passenger, both men aged in their late teens, are receiving treatment for non-life threatening injuries. Minister of State for the Department of Transport Jack Chambers said the deaths of the two young men was "absolutely devastating". I just want to express my condolences to the Salesian Agricultural College and the wider community in Limerick. I know how much grief this will bring to everyone involved and to their families. They had so much ahead of them in their own lives, he told RTEs News At One. Mr Chambers said the trend of road fatalities in 2023 had persisted, with 32 lives lost already this year on our roads. In particular the number of young people we are seeing losing their lives on the road. My condolences to everyone involved in the events of the last 24 hours, he said. We are taking a very evidence-based approach in trying to address the worrying trends that is why last week I brought through the road traffic legislation which went through the second stage of the Dail. That road traffic legislation is due to go before the Oireachtas Transport Committee next week and we hope to progress that through quickly so we can underpin reforms that will make a difference, which very much focused on lifesaver offences, he said. He explained that guidance would be given to local authorities regarding speed limits once the legislation was enacted, in order to synchronise this nationally. We hope to see a lot of the changes in speed limits happen before the end of the year, he added. Mr Chambers stressed that it contained a number of important reforms that will make a difference. Meanwhile, Cllr Adam Teskey, who is from Askeaton and a former student of the college, expressed his immense sympathies to all the families involved. This is not only a tragic day for us here in the greater Askeaton area but for the individuals and for their families in their respective areas. There is a wider family at a grief and at a loss, he said, speaking of the students college. Cllr Teskey also said an immense sense of gratitude has to be extended to the first responders including the gardai, ambulance services and the fire brigade. Gardai, the National Ambulance Service and four units of the fire brigade responded to the collision, including two units each from nearby Rathkeale and Foynes. Cllr Teskey added that the stretch of road along the N69 was no stranger to fatalities, to major collisions and crashes and that part of the road doesnt even have a hard shoulder. It is understood that the vehicle in which they were travelling struck a concrete pier at the entrance to farmland about 7.25pm. The incident was the second on the same stretch of road in the space of 12 hours, after a second unrelated non-fatal crash took place at 7am yesterday. Cllr Teskey added: It is not fit for purpose to be a national road route. Not for todays volume of traffic. This brings the total number of deaths on the roads so far this year to 32. The toll includes a young girl (6) who died a week after a car crash in Westmeath on February 8 Meanwhile, in Co Mayo, a man aged 33 died and a young girl was also injured after they were struck by a car on a street in the town of Ballina. The incident happened at approximately 6.25pm on Lord Edward Street. The male pedestrian was left in a critical condition and was being treated at Mayo University Hospital but he died on Wednesday evening, gardai said. The child is also receiving treatment. Her injuries are understood to not be life-threatening Road deaths Road deaths remain stubbornly high despite a Garda road safety crackdown and increased driver awareness promotions by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). A total of 32 people have died on Irish roads so far this year, more than the 29 who lost their lives over the same period last year. January last year proved one of the deadliest on Irish roads and set the tone for the worst year for fatalities recorded in over a decade, with 188 people dying on Irish roads in 2023. Four counties Dublin, Kildare, Carlow and Mayo have recorded three deaths each over the first seven weeks of this year. Two other counties Cork, and Meath have recorded two deaths each over the same period. RSA chairperson Liz ODonnell said the recent uptick in road fatalities was a cause of serious concern while Taoiseach Leo Varadkar a former transport minister insisted on personally chairing a ministerial meeting last November on road safety initiatives and invited Susan Gray of road safety campaigners Parc to give a lengthy presentation to ministers, gardai, Courts Service, representatives from the RSA and Medical Bureau of Road Safety, and senior civil servants. Mr Varadkar, who lost a family member in a road tragedy, said he was alarmed by the spiral in road deaths over recent months. He indicated he would chair another ministerial meeting on road safety to assess progress on various safety issues. Parc said the continuing trend was concerning. What is worrying is that the numbers have been going in the wrong direction in 2022 and in 2023, said Ms Gray. She described as heartbreaking the further decline in Garda Road Policing Unit personnel numbers, which are now 15pc below 2021 levels. The latest Department of Justice analysis of garda staffing levels shows that personnel attached to Road Policing Units (RPU) last year had fallen to 632 personnel 104 below the figure from just two years ago. In the same year 188 people died in road crashes, the highest number in almost a decade, we noted from the data that some counties suffered more losses both in roads policing numbers and road fatalities than others, said Ms Gray. Today's News in 90 Seconds - February 21st However, there are concerns that priority has been given to allocation of new gardai to the Dublin area in the wake of last Novembers riots. Compared to other counties, Dublin has on a per capita basis one of the safest rates of road usage in Ireland. A major campaign has been under way to reduce road deaths nationwide by cracking down on speeding as well as drink and drug-driving. RSA officials have already met with Garda Road Policing Unit officials to discuss the road death figures and to determine a response. There is also concern over the proportion of fatal collisions which include young drivers, with 42pc of the lives lost involving those aged 35 and younger. Men are now dying on Irish roads at a rate of five-to-one compared to women. Gardai have urged motorists to reduce their speed and said the priority for every motorist should be arriving safely at their destination. The RSA also urged motorists to allow extra time for journeys and to drive with care and consideration for other road users. There are no adequate answers why long delays to spinal surgeries have not been remedied, the Taoiseach has admitted - amid a Dail row on possibly diverted resources. Leo Varadkar complained about money being allocated to one purpose in the HSE then apparently diverted to other areas. It was the same with staff, he said, when 50 hires under one heading could be sent instead to a completely different area. Mr Varadkar said new HSE Chief Bernard Gloster agreed with him on ending these diversions of money and resources and was committed to tackling it. But the Taoiseach added it would take more than one Government to solve problems with the services. He pointed out that this one "only has one year left". Mr Varadkar said the Government needed to find out exactly how an allocated 19 million for children's orthopaedic and spinal surgeries was spent. What we cant establish for certain is how much of the 19m was spent exactly on this, so we need to find that out, he said. The Taoiseach said the number of procedures being carried out had significantly increased, with 509 spinal procedures in 2022, and 464 last year, compared to 380 in 2019. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has told the Dail he has demanded the HSE to send its internal audit team into Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) to probe possible misallocation. Mr Donnelly said the amount was intended to bring down waiting lists for spinal surgeries for children, eliminating waiting lists of more than four months to zero and making corrective action available on demand. As we all know, that has not happened, Mr Donnelly said. I know that a portion of that money has been used to increase the number of surgeries. However, concerns have been raised that all of the money may not have been allocated to orthopaedic and spinal surgery - certainly not in the way that I intended." He said it was not all spent in the way in the way "that all of us in this House would want to have seen". He said he wanted a full audit account "of the entire 19m mapped against the intended purpose". Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said while the Government was at sea over how the 19m was spent, far too many children are waiting and waiting. It was utterly scandalous, she said. Mr Varadkar said some of the money was spent on providing 204 additional healthcare professionals working for at least some of their time at Temple St Crumlin and Cappagh hospital. There were also more beds provided and new MRI machines to see the spinal situation. Several members of the Oireachtas Media Committee criticised the response they received at the private meeting with two executives from the Elon Musk-owned platform, with accusations that X was not taking their concerns seriously A Labour senator confronted executives from social media site X with harrowing details of violent and sexually abusive posts she had received on the platform. At a private briefing on Wednesday, Annie Hoey read out posts about her on the site formerly known as Twitter during a private committee hearing with two executives from the Elon Musk-owned social media giant. Ms Hoey, who previously disclosed she was raped in her 20s, referred to posts saying she deserved to be raped and that made disparaging references about her weight and sexuality. X sought and got agreement from the committee to brief members in private on its safety, disinformation and media literacy policies on Wednesday at Leinster House. The company defended these policies in a detailed opening statement to the committee. However, speaking afterwards, several members publicly criticised the response they received at the meeting with accusations that X was not taking their concerns about the platform seriously. Speaking to the Irish Independent, Ms Hoey recounted the posts she read out at the meeting. "It was posts calling my sexuality into account, and calling me the C-word. It was very graphic, violent language, calling me a 'fat dribbling moron', 'a cancer', constantly calling me 'a fat f***', a 'stupid b****', a 'stupid c***', referencing me as a member of the LGBT community and references as to what should be done to me, she said. "It was also posts repeating tropes of refugees coming over here and raping women and that I deserve this to happen to me because I advocate for a compassionate approach for people coming to Ireland. "It's not a big secret, but I was raped in my early 20s. So it's very difficult when people talk about that happening to me or anyone online. So to misconstrue people coming over here is horrific and to invoke that violence as a way to punish me or punish women is very difficult. Fianna Fail TD Christopher OSullivan described the meeting as very frustrating and said X gave the impression that they didnt really care. Several members said the company did not appear aware of high-profile posts about the Dublin riots, including one viral post by a local election candidate, which made false claims about the health status of one of the victims. X told the committee it had 2,500 moderators globally, around 10pc of whom are based in Europe. By comparison, Meta, the operator of Facebook and Instagram, has around 15,000, it is understood. Ms Hoey added: "I appreciate it's difficult for them to account for specific tweets. But aside from child sexual exploitation, the response from X to me seems to be that the onus is on the individual receiving the abuse and to report it, and there are only so many hours in the day. "What is being proactively done to catch these things at source before I have to waste my time clicking report, report, report it is a waste of my time to do that. It is a hellscape." Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon said it was a poor meeting in which X did not appear to understand the seriousness of members concerns. It feels their content moderation and adherence to community standards have lapsed, he said. Fine Gael Senator Mary Seery Kearney, who is understood to have referenced posts by MMA fighter Conor McGregor, said afterwards that X denied knowing about the behaviour of some very high-profile account holders on X and their dissemination of disinformation. In its opening statement, X defended its response to the riots in Dublin last November, saying that as soon as it became aware of the stabbing incident in Parnell Square, it conducted a proactive sweep of the platform to surface content in violation of our terms of service. A row broke out between the Government and X late last year after Justice Minister Helen McEntee claimed X didnt engage with garda efforts to remove posts and claimed it fuelled some of what happened. X subsequently disputed this, saying it had removed more than 1,230 pieces of content a figure it repeated to committee members on Wednesday. The platforms executives also told the committee that between August and October 2023 in Ireland, it took action on 1,164 pieces of content and 27,114 accounts for violation of our rules, with 18,735 accounts engaged in manipulation and spam. X also said it had taken action on 964 pieces of content reported to it by the authorities in Ireland. The company said it prohibited manipulation and spam. It also argued it had strict rules in place that forbid violent speech on the platform. It said hateful references, incitement, slurs and tropes, dehumanisation, hateful imagery and hateful profiles were also restricted, and that it did not tolerate abuse and harassment. It said it had a zero-tolerance towards material that featured or promoted child sexual exploitation and that 12.4 million accounts had been suspended last year for violating its child sexual exploitation policies. KATHMANDU (PTI): Multinational military exercise - 'Shanti Prayas IV' - kicked off in Nepal on Tuesday at the Army headquarters here with the participation of 19 countries, including India, Bangladesh and Pakistan to enhance the interoperability and peacekeeping skills of the forces. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" inaugurated the two-week-long military drill amidst a special ceremony, according to a press release issued by the Nepal Army Headquarters. The multinational military exercise is taking place at the Birendra Peace Operation Training Centre in the Kabhre district, 50 km east of Kathmandu. It will see the participation of 1,125 army personnel from 19 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The exercise has been organised with the assistance of the Global Peace Operation Initiative of the US government and with the joint efforts of the Nepal Army and the US Army, the release said. The US delegation to the joint military exercise is led by Deputy Assistant Secretary Rachel Schiller. During the inaugural event at the playground of Nepal Army headquarters, participating countries displayed their respective flags, fly passes and bands. Nepal hosted the inaugural multi-platoon training event "Shanti Prayas" in 2000. Since then, three successful multi-platoon exercises have taken place in the Himalayan country, with the participation of military forces from various countries. According to the centre, the objective of the exercise, which will run till March 4, is to increase interoperability and peacekeeping skills at various levels before deployment to the UN missions and operational level staff training (STE). The key events of the exercise are the tactical level field training event (FTE) and critical enabler and capability enhancement (2CE). Serious concerns over recent rise in fatalities as road safety groups say there has been a heartbreaking decline in garda staffing levels Gardai have appealed to motorists to slow down and heed safety advice A total of 30 people have died on Irish roads so far this year, as of Wednesday morning, one more than the number who lost their lives over the same period last year. January last year proved one of the deadliest on Irish roads and set the tone for the worst year for fatalities recorded in over a decade, with 188 people dying on Irish roads in 2023. Three counties Dublin, Kildare and Carlow have recorded three deaths each over the first seven weeks of this year. Three other counties Cork, Mayo and Meath have recorded two deaths each over the same period. A further 13 counties have recorded a single road death each in the first 50 days of the year. Just seven counties have managed to avoid a fatal collision since the start of the year. Garda figures indicated that the deaths involved drivers (11), passengers (9), pedestrians (5), motorcyclists (2) and pedal cyclists (1). To date, no e-scooter user or motorcycle pillion passenger has been fatally injured in a collision. RSA chairperson Liz ODonnell said the recent uptick in road fatalities was a cause of serious concern while Taoiseach Leo Varadkar a former transport minister insisted on personally chairing a ministerial meeting last November on road safety initiatives and invited Susan Gray of road safety campaigners Parc to give a lengthy presentation to ministers, gardai, Courts Service, representatives from the RSA and Medical Bureau of Road Safety, and senior civil servants. Mr Varadkar, who lost a family member in a road tragedy, said he was alarmed by the spiral in road deaths over recent months. He indicated he would chair another ministerial meeting on road safety to assess progress on various safety issues. Parc said the continuing trend was concerning. What is worrying is that the numbers have been going in the wrong direction in 2022 and in 2023, said Ms Gray. She described as heartbreaking the further decline in Garda Road Policing Unit personnel numbers, which are now 15pc below 2021 levels. The latest Department of Justice analysis of garda staffing levels shows that personnel attached to Road Policing Units (RPU) last year had fallen to 632 personnel 104 below the figure from just two years ago. In the same year 188 people died in road crashes, the highest number in almost a decade, we noted from the data that some counties suffered more losses both in roads policing numbers and road fatalities than others, said Ms Gray. In 2023, the (RPU) number fell to 632 members, with all counties suffering a loss except for Mayo. It is beyond heartbreaking to see so little priority put into roads policing by the powers that be. There are 104 fewer gardai in roads policing now than there was in 2021 and the most worrying part is that the figure keeps dropping. This will result in an increase in road deaths as one of the main deterrents needed to change driver behaviour is being removed. Both the Government and gardai warned that enforcement of traffic regulations is also undertaken by gardai outside of dedicated RPUs, and that personnel are being trained for deployment to such units from the latest garda recruit classes. However, there are concerns that priority has been given to allocation of new gardai to the Dublin area in the wake of last Novembers riots. Compared to other counties, Dublin has on a per capita basis one of the safest rates of road usage in Ireland. A major campaign has been under way to reduce road deaths nationwide by cracking down on speeding as well as drink and drug-driving. The figure of 188 road deaths by December 31 last year is also a significant increase on both 2021 and 2022 with senior Government ministers, led by the Taoiseach, expressing concern at the trend. Parc has called for extra garda road policing resources, renewed road safety promotions and a crackdown on driving licence enforcement as a national priority. RSA officials have already met with Garda Road Policing Unit officials to discuss the road death figures and to determine a response. There is also concern over the proportion of fatal collisions which include young drivers, with 42pc of the lives lost involving those aged 35 and younger. Men are now dying on Irish roads at a rate of five-to-one compared to women. Gardai have urged motorists to reduce their speed and said the priority for every motorist should be arriving safely at their destination. Garda Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, who directs road policing, pleaded with motorists to heed the safety advice. Any road death is one too many and we will continue to work together with our partners in road safety to reduce road deaths, she said. Tenants renting a property owned by a construction company in Co Sligo have been ordered to pay more than 13,000 in arrears, the latest in a string of cases the firm has taken. Ballymote Construction Ltd took a case to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) over the outstanding rent. Two tenants living in a property in Cnoc na Si, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, had not paid their rent of 1,600 for several of months. The RTB ordered payment of the arrears of 13,300 and found the eviction notice to be valid, advising the tenants they had 21 days to leave the property. Over the years, Ballymote Construction has been involved in 17 disputes with tenants over arrears, eviction notices and rent increases. The RTB found in Ballymotes favour in 16 of the cases. The one it lost concerned an invalid notice of termination served on a tenant in 2016. Other cases brought by tenants were not upheld, while some were ordered to pay arrears of more than 3,000. Concerns have previously been raised about the companys rent prices. Sinn Fein TD Martin Kenny told the Dail how a tenant renting a house from Ballymote Construction had her monthly payment increased from 800 to 1,400. She had been living in a three-bed house in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, for two years with her husband and small child when the rent was hiked, Mr Kenny said. Tubbercurry is not a designated Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) an area where rent cannot be increased by more than 2pc each year. Landlords leasing properties outside an RPZ are entitled to increase rents to a market rate once a lease has been in place for 24 months. The new rent must also be shown to be on par with other prices charged in the area. A tenant living in another house in Cnoc na Si took a rent review case against Ballymote Construction last year. However, it was not upheld by the RTB. The Irish Independent contacted Ballymote director Hugh Adams for comment, but he did not wish to respond. A number of recent decisions by the RTB involve significant rent arrears. In one, a woman appointed executor of the estate of her late brother took a dispute with the RTB after her tenant failed to pay nearly 20,000 in rent. The tenant, who lived in a house in Co Limerick, was ordered to pay the arrears and vacate the house. Elsewhere, renters living in a house owned by Circle Housing were ordered to pay arrears of 4,500. Rents in new tenancies went up faster than in existing tenancies from last July to September. National average rents for new tenancies were 1,598 a month, up 11pc on the previous year, while existing tenancies rose 5.2pc to a national average of 1,357. There was a higher percentage increase in new tenancies outside Dublin, where monthly rent costs rose by nearly 13pc, compared with a 10pc rise in the capital. First published 30 years ago, Lonely Planets Ireland guide has sold over a million copies Lonely Planets Ireland guidebook was one of its 10 bestselling global titles last year, the publisher has revealed. The 16th edition of its travel guide to Ireland will be published next month, 30 years after the first was released in 1994. "We have published over 1.1 million guides to Ireland, said Tom Hall, Head of Lonely Planet UK & Europe. "Every edition has been put together with great love for the country, and we reckon Ireland owes its popularity to a lot of things. Through our writers, the guide puts the reader in the company of a well-informed local expert who cant wait to share what they love about the country: Irelands people, history, music, food and drink and much more besides. Alongside Ireland, its top-selling titles in 2023 included Japan, Iceland, Thailand and New York City. Lonely Planet's 16th Ireland guide is due in March Since its first guide, Maureen and Tony Wheeler's Across Asia on the Cheap, appeared in 1973, Lonely Planet has produced over 150m guidebooks. Its latest follow 50th anniversary celebrations, and a redesign of its iconic, blue-spined travel guidebooks in a marketplace with fierce competition from AI, online guides and social media. The classic guidebooks have had "a massive glow-up, it said. A fresh visual style will include artistic and colourful images on the covers, including a 3D masking effect, and a snippet of whats inside the book highlighted in an airplane window. A vintage 'Lonely Planet' guide to Ireland Inside, readers will find QR codes for quick connections, sustainable travel suggestions, alternatives to crowded destinations and new section layouts among other changes. Owner, American conglomerate Red Ventures, has said Lonely Planet continues to reach hundreds of millions of travellers every year via its print, digital and social media channels. Ireland, it seems, is a key part of that. As well as sales of its dedicated guide, a recent title, Lonely Planets Best Beaches, named Achill Islands Keem Bay among the worlds 100 best, and Co Donegal was included among its worlds top 10 regions to visit in 2024. Irelands incredible landscapes, unique cultural heritage and welcoming people mean it has a huge pull for travellers from around the world, Mr Hall said. Vladimir Putin's contempt for international law is the hallmark of his regime. Photo: AP Even after two world wars, Europe cannot escape the snares of conflict. That we enjoy freedom today, is because when pressed, its peoples rejected tyrants and trod instead the road to democracy. That took strength, sacrifice and courage, the kind of attributes shown with such inspirational effect by Yulia Navalnaya in Brussels, when she addressed EU leaders on the murder of her husband Alexei, by Russia. By killing Alexei, Putin killed half of me half of my heart and half of my soul. Summoning all her will, she added: But I still have the other half, and it tells me that I have no right to give up. I will continue the work of Alexei Navalny, continue to fight for our country. Kremlin denials of involvement in the murder of the fearless opposition leader ring as hollow as ever. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said: Vladimir Putin and his regime will be held accountable for the death. As Yulia said, Putin is not Russia. Russia is not Putin. The heartless treatment of Mr Navalny was another reminder of Putins ruthlessness. It is something worth dwelling on with the second anniversary of Moscows invasion of Ukraine so close. Abraham Lincoln pleaded for the preservation of the spirit of liberty everywhere. Destroy this and you have planted the seeds of despotism around your own doors, he cautioned. Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba summed it up when he reminded his followers on X of the long list of Putins critics and opponents who, like Mr Navalny, have died under violent or unclear circumstances: journalist Anna Politkovskaya; former KGB agent and dissident Alexander Litvinenko; and Sergei Magnitsky. There was outrage after each murder, but Putin eventually got away with it, and world leaders shook his hand again, Mr Kuleba wrote. This encouraged him to continue killing people. All the more reason to decry the reprehensible and irresponsible behaviour of US Republicans in Congress for stalling on the $61bn aid so vital to Ukraines war efforts. Putin believes Mr Navalnys murder will further deter any possible opposition. The more he gets away with, the more dangerous he becomes. The West, and the US in particular, must recognise there are no lengths to which he will not go. His readiness to slaughter innocent people, and his total contempt for international law, are the terrible hallmarks of his regime. Ukraines war is a fight for democracy. Moscow is counting on democracies wearying of supporting Kyiv after two years of bloodshed. Every day that Congress delays is sending an encouraging signal to Moscow that the West is weak, and that brute force and suppression of freedoms are the only ways to hold power. For lawmakers in the Home of the Free to renege on commitments to protect global peace and stability marks a worrying new low. Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, is said to be the test of integrity. But doing the right thing when everyone is watching can be even more important. And this is just such a time for the people of Gaza. The US decision to draft a resolution at the United Nations Security Council calling for a temporary ceasefire is belated, but the decision is nonetheless welcome. Many may have been disappointed at Washingtons vetoing of Algerias resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire, but its proposing of a temporary one of its own could still represent a turning point. Seeking a shift in Israeli strategy is something of a watershed. To date, Washington has backed every move made by Tel Aviv, despite international alarm at the civilian death toll and the unprecedented level of indiscriminate destruction. America has also swatted away deepening concerns about a spiralling of the conflict and the threat to regional stability. It previously avoided the word ceasefire during UN votes on the war. It has also warned Tel Aviv against invading the hopelessly overcrowded city of Rafah. A ground offensive there could only be catastrophic and would threaten a breaking point in relationships. Last week, US president Joe Biden indicated his seemingly inexhaustible reserve of goodwill towards Israel was beginning to run thin. He is under growing duress internationally from key US allies and domestically from his Democratic Party. He is being urged to persuade Israels prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to scale back the war. A better targeted counter-terrorism strategy against Hamas would be more effective, they argue. To date, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed since the October 7 massacre by Hamas. Mr Biden took the unprecedented step last week of laying down strong conditions on the use of military aid, yet he took care not to single out Israel. The Times of Israel reported: Joe Biden issued a memorandum requiring allies who receive military aid from the US to provide credible and reliable written assurances of their adherence to international law, including international human rights law. It is not known when the UN Security Council will table the US motion. Time may be needed to garner support, but a cessation cannot come soon enough. Unicef has warned of an increase in the already unbearable level of child deaths in Gaza caused by malnutrition. The Gaza Strip is poised to witness an explosion in preventable child deaths, which would compound the already unbearable level of child deaths in Gaza, Unicef warned in a stark statement. Meanwhile, the UN says women and children continue to be killed in air strikes. Washington has always had unique leverage to rein in Israel. Hopefully, it is not too late to use it in the best interests of all concerned. Members of Fermoy International Choir were presented with the overall Community Group award by Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank O'Flynn and Deputy Chief Executive of Cork County Council Michael Lynch. Pic: Brian Lougheed. Fermoy International Choir were recognised for the positive contribution they have made in their locality when they won the overall Community Group award at the 11th Annual Mayors Community Awards. Outstanding contributions made by individuals together with community and voluntary groups from across Cork County were highlighted at the 2024 County Mayors Community Awards held in Cork County Hall on Tuesday, February 20. The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank OFlynn, presented a total of 11 awards on the night, with the Fermoy International Choir which was established in 2019, winning the overall Mayors Community Group award. 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 The choir, was set up to bring all members of the community together. They have welcomed over 400 members from 50 countries and their success inspired the creation of a nationwide movement called One Town One Voice. They have featured on both RTE and BBC World Service, highlighting the best that local community has to offer. Mayor OFlynn warmly congratulated all the nominees at the awards ceremony for their dedication to their communities, This event is truly one of the highlights of my term as Mayor. It is a fantastic opportunity for me, for Cork County Council and for the people of Cork to show our appreciation for the hard work and commitment that goes into strengthening our communities and inspiring one another to succeed. It is an honour to recognise and celebrate these incredible achievements. Fine Gael councillor in the Fermoy Municipal District Noel McCarthy commended the Fermoy International Choir for their award win. It is an outstanding achievement and well deserved. They are an outstanding group who have brought great recognition to Fermoy. They have brought the community together. They have shown how much a community can work with different nationalities and the friendships they have formed. They have gained so much admiration from the people of Fermoy and the surrounding areas. I was at one of their culture nights and they were outstanding. They are a very talented group. We are all very proud of them, he added. Chief Executive of Cork County Council Valerie OSullivan also paid tribute to the various nominees: It is no exaggeration to say that many of the wonderful things about towns and villages in the county are thanks to the amazing work of the nominees and groups and individuals like them. These awards are well-deserved recognition for the incredible community work that takes place all year round in Cork. The other North Cork nominees at the annual awards were Meals on Wheels Fermoy (Group Winner), Freemount Comhaltas U15 Ceili Band, Sr Bernadette Maria (individual winner), John Murphy and Colman Walsh. Theresa Hickey a community activist from West Cork won the overall Individual award. Ms Hickey is a passionate voluntary community activist and a member of Co-Action West Cork Co Ltd, The Legion of Mary, The Carbery Show Society, The Red Cross Society, The Parish Council, and the IFA. Theresa was also a volunteer with Skibbereen Credit Union for many years. Fireworks let off close to the emergency services attending incident Two teenagers are being treated in Cork University Hospital after their car went on fire when it crashed into a bollard in Knocknaheeny on the north side of Cork city last night, sparking several public order incidents. The single vehicle road collision occurred at roughly 7.30pm on Tuesday, February 20. Gardai and members of the Cork City Fire Brigade attended the scene at Kilmore Road. The two teenagers involved in the incident were taken to hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. A large group of teenagers gathered near the scene following the incident and a number of public order incidents were reported in the area. Fireworks were also set off close to the emergency services. The burning car was successfully extinguished and has been removed from the scene, with Kilmore road now reopen to the public. "Yesterday evening Cork City Fire Brigade were requested to attend a road traffic collision. On the north side of the city where one vehicle had hit a concrete bollard. The car caught fire and there were two casualties taken by HSE ambulance to Cork University Hospital for medical treatment. And Gardai are investigating the scene, said Second Officer with Cork City Fire Brigade Victor Shine. Further work is being planned on the Sandymount Coastal Flood Defence Scheme. Pic: Damien Storan Dublin has been named among 36 major cities around the world most at risk from rising sea levels and flooding. The capital ranked 23rd on the list by US-based climate organisation climate.gov, with cities like London in 9th place and Tokyo securing the top spot as the city most at risk. With rising sea levels causing frequent flooding worldwide, climate.gov estimates it is only a matter of time before the first cities begin to submerge underwater. According to climate.gov, if the sea level rises by 1.5 metres and the temperature increases by three degrees, cities could be submerged. Parts of Dublin could be at serious risk of flooding in just eight years if drastic action is not taken. Latest information from Climate Central, a non-profit organisation reporting on the impact of climate change, also shows the areas of Dublin likely to face major flooding problems in the coming years if sea levels continue to rise at the current rate. Areas most likely to be impacted include Sandymount, Booterstown, Dublin Port, Clontarf, Dollymount Strand, Portmarnock and Howth. The Sandymount and Merrion Residents Association (SAMRA) spoke to the Irish Independent about the current flood defences in place for the area. They say flood relief measures currently provide a good level of protection for certain sections of the promenade. A map from Climate Central showing the parts of Dublin (in red) at risk from a sea level rise of 1.5 metres A proposed project to enhance these measures is designed to protect the area from climate change impacts associated with rising sea levels, along with extreme weather events, up to the year 2100. The residents association in the area has been actively engaged in pursuing this project since 2020, and while there are current flood defences in place, they say progress has been glacially slow since then. Following a meeting with the Office of Public Works in 2022, it was stated that these enhanced measures would be in place by 2023. However, this did not materialise within that time frame. In December 2023, SAMRA members met with officials from the OPW, looking for greater clarity about the projects future. Niall McElroy, a member of SAMRA, said the associations initial reasoning for the meeting was to express frustration, but also to see a way forward for the project. One of the key aspects of the update is a new process put in place between the OPW and Dublin City Council to move the project forward systematically and efficiently, with timelines in place, he said. A specific oversight team is being established to review the projects progression on a quarterly basis, while there may also be some engagement with the public, including groups like SAMRA. The appointment of a construction engineer for the project on enhanced flood measures should be in place by the end of Q1 this year. As the impacts of climate change constantly evolve in the area, the modelling for the project will be part of the quarterly reviews. Following the recent meeting in December, members of the residents association feel they have greater clarity and understanding of the project and are confident of the level of governance in place to make it happen. Plans to sell the post office building in Phibsboro and outsource its services must be stopped, it has been claimed. Over the past two weeks, the local northside community has learned that An Post plans to contract out its services in the area and sell the post office building. An Post announced that, in line with the ongoing transformation of the national post office network, three of its Dublin offices Phibsboro, Rathmines and Tallaght will integrate into the mainstream of national post offices. Less than 40 post offices in the entire country are now run directly by An Post. An Post says the move will not in any way change the range or extent of services offered. An Post staff formerly employed at the Phibsboro post office will take up several possible options, including redeployment within the companys network or taking up employment with the new Postmaster. However, they added that it is likely a new location would be sought by this provider. The news has been met with anger from those within the community who rely on the post office for services, such as serving pensioners with no bank in the area, social welfare recipients, parcel collection and bin tag purchases. Local businesses also rely on the post office for mail orders, and it was only in recent months that the range of services there expanded to include parcel collection. There have been 1,200 signatures collected by people in the area against the plans for the change in the business model. Labour Senator Marie Sherlock has said the latest plans set out by An Post must be stopped. For both individuals and local businesses in our community, the post office provides an important local service, she said. The reality is that Phibsboro is already a very busy post office, and it would be a big blow to the area if the range of services were reduced. Unfortunately, all too often the outcry about the loss of public services only happens when they are lost. I am determined that this does not happen in Phibsboro. While Senator Sherlock said she acknowledged there is a commitment to contract the post office service to a private provider, she says she is concerned there is no guarantee that the range of services will be maintained. Concerned members of the community will be gathering for a public meeting tomorrow night in the Scout Hall in Phibsboro. Celine Clarke, Head of Advocacy and Public Affairs at Age Action, told the Irish Independent that the erosion of financial services such as the post office has a negative impact on the quality of life of older persons, particularly those who are digitally excluded or have transport issues. The post office has been a suggested alternative when bank branches are closing, she said. If post office branches are closing or there is a diminution of existing services, how are people supposed to have their needs met? She outlined that digital banking is not the answer as 6 in 10 older people experience digital exclusion, meaning they are not using the internet or do not have the skills to use it safely. These people have to have access, in their communities, to the full range of essential financial services that a post office provides. Otherwise, they are at risk of social exclusion and financial abuse, she added. Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon also raised the post offices potential closure in the Dail this morning, saying that the service is a hub of community in the locality. People go there for services, the sense of community, and the conversations they have along the way, and in the past two weeks, the community has found out its at risk of being closed, he said. He said the proposed plans from An Post suggest services would be significantly diluted and that the Postmaster service may be placed off-site. Its far more than a place to buy stamps, and if we erode these services, it will be to the detriment of the community, he added. Owners of Remedy House, a coffee shop that served as a pie-shaped fulcrum in the Five Points neighborhood in Buffalos West Side, closed their business after service Tuesday, Andrew Trautman and Justin Smith posted to Instagram. Trautman on Wednesday morning said he and Smith are selling the business and have found a buyer, whom they declined to identify. But Remedy House will continue at 429 Rhode Island St. under new ownership, he said, although a start date for the refreshed business is not certain. In one West Side neighborhood's turnaround: optimism, uncertainty and $12 toast The diverse and once-blighted neighborhood around Rhode Island and West Utica, now dubbed Five Points, has seen an influx of investment in the past 20 years, ranking it among the citys most dramatic neighborhood comebacks. But some fear being We felt like we gave Remedy House all we could, Trautman said. We came to the realization that its time to pass the torch. Remedy House was a leader in a wave of new coffee shops that opened in the city in the mid-2010s, joining Five Points Bakery, Tipico, Public Espresso, Overwinter, Undergrounds and others. Perhaps more impactful was its contribution to the blossoming of the Five Points intersection, where Rhode Island, West Utica and Brayton streets converge at odd angles. Its wealth of outdoor seating on the West Utica and Rhode Island sides made it a popular spot for people to read, work or meet a friend. Remedys Egg on a roll breakfast sandwich drew a cult following. Remedy House worked closely with neighbor Butter Block for the last four years, too, and owners of the two businesses worked together to open Flint Buffalo in Fountain Plaza. Trautman said Flints future is undetermined. How Butter Block brought Parisian-level croissants to Buffalo Butter Block, run by Colleen Stillwell, has become the finest sweets bakery in Buffalo, one of the crowd-drawing developments in the West Side neighborhood of Five Points. Frits Abell, the developer and businessman who owns the Rhode Island Street property, said Wednesday his aim was for the space to remain a coffeehouse and brasserie, or a European-style cafe that serves food. Several interested parties, he said, wanted to transform it into a bar. Abell praised the entrepreneurial spirit of Trautman and Smith, who expanded their business from coffee cart to pop-up shop to full-fledged coffeehouse in 2017 shortly after Abell finished rehabbing the building. The following 6 years saw the business persevere through the pandemic, expand programming, develop a robust food menu and dabble in extended service hours. They ran with an incredible concept; Andrew, in particular, is a creative genius, Abell said. The design of the space, the menu, the ambiance. ... it all just worked. A little slice of Europe, with a West Side flair. For Trautman, the experience running the pop-up in the building was when he knew explosive growth was possible. We knew there was magic, he said. Savor a coffee on the patio at these 5 Buffalo cafes Here is a list of several cafes that feature outdoor seating, perfect for a date with a book or Tinder match. The coffee shops workers a year ago walked out and organized a union, but Trautman said that was not what precipitated the closure. We tried to provide them with everything we could, Trautman said. Trautman said he intends to stay in the food-and-drink business, and the owners social media post indicated they will help with the transition. But to some degree, its the end of an era. Its a lot of emotion, he said. A heavy day. Closing stairwell at night is also restricting commuters, residents claim 'Temporary' access to Clongriffin Dart Station has been in place for 13 years Members of Myrtle The Coast Residents Association gather at the stairwell last year. Pic: Mark Condren The lift at a Dublin Dart station is out of service once again after experiencing issues on several occasions in the past few months. The latest breakdown of the lift at Clongriffin Dart Station occurred on Monday, while the temporary stairwell access, which has been in place for 13 years, is also being restricted. The access point, managed on behalf of the owners by Richmond Homes, has been in place since April 2010. Samantha OFlanagan, from Myrtle the Coast Residents Association, has been campaigning since last year to address both the long and short-term access issues. She told the Irish Independent that Richmond Homes has told them an engineer would be sent out to address the broken lift. I did question whether there were procedures in place, like, do they even know that the lift is out of service? Unless were mailing them constantly, she said. At the beginning of January, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan visited Clongriffin Dart Station to discuss the concerns of residents subjected to a station without a working lift for three months before his visit. The meeting was sought by members of the Myrtle the Coast Residents Association, who have been actively campaigning for safe and universal access to be delivered to the station. While the residents acknowledged that Minister Ryans visit to the station was a positive step, they dont feel that any substantial change has occurred since. However, the residents association secured a meeting with a National Transport Authority representative and a consultant undertaking an option and feasibility report for the station. It was a positive meeting in the sense that we felt like they were listening to our concerns, Ms OFlanagan said. It did seem like there will be options on the table for providing more sustainable, short and mid-term access. 'Temporary' access to Clongriffin Dart Station has been in place for 13 years However, this meeting took place on January 29, and residents say they havent heard anything since. Fine Gael councillor for Howth Malahide, Aoibhinn Tormey, confirmed that she was told by the NTA the option and feasibility report would not be ready until March. Ms OFlanagan said there have been no further updates, and she feels people relying on the Dart station are in a bit of a limbo now, waiting for what the report puts forward. It just doesnt seem to be a priority unless were really pushing for it, and were still waiting, she added. Another area of contention for residents who rely on the station is the current closure of the stairwell at night. According to the residents, the stairwell is now closed between roughly midnight and 6am, which is restricting a huge amount of people, particularly night shift workers living in the locality. Myrtle the Coast Residents Association told the Irish Independent they have received several emails of complaint around the closure of the stairwell at night, and they feel its been pushed to the side completely. In response to residents concerns, Fingal County Council said a warning letter would be issued to Richmond Homes, who are managing the stairwell on behalf of the owner. However, according to the residents, this letter was only concerning the erection of a sign and not that the access had been cut off, which was extremely frustrating. To be frank, we dont care about the erection of a sign on a wall, Ms OFlanagan said. Its what has come from that sign the access being cut off at night is what were concerned with. She added that she doesnt feel its an issue being prioritised, despite the fact its a challenge for many of the residents who live there. A spokesperson for Fingal County Council said it is currently engaged with the relevant parties to find a solution to the issues raised around access to Clongriffin Dart Station. The continued cycle of repair followed by further acts of vandalism and the lift being out of operation requires a solution that provides for a safe, reliable and robust access in the short term or until such time as a long term solution is delivered, the spokesperson added. The Council is currently awaiting receipt of the feasibility and options report that is being prepared by the National Transport Authority. Richmond Homes has been contacted for comment. Members of Listowel's business and tourism sectors at a special event on Monday. Photo by John Kelliher. Businesses and Community Group representatives from across North Kerry came together to learn about the recently launched Discover Kerry brand and website. The Listowel Business and Community Alliance held a special information session for members and the wider North Kerry community on Monday with the aim of informing local tourism stakeholders how best to utilise the new website to promote their business, festival, or event. The Alliance is a member of Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF) which manages the tourism section of the website and social media. Attending the event was chairperson of KTIF, Pat OLeary; board members Mike McCarthy and Colette OConnor, while Joanne McCarthy, Executive with KTIF, was on hand to give the presentation to members. This is Kerry Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Kerry newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Mondays event was the first in a number of sessions that KTIF will hold with member organisations. These will also include the Kerry Chamber Network, Kerry Vintners, IHF, and Kerry Convention Bureau. Chair of Listowel Business and Community Alliance Rose Wall said it was key to raise the importance of working together across the region. North Kerry has everything a tourist could wish for, and for us its important to communicate that and connect with organisations and businesses in the neighbouring villages and towns as much as with our own members here in Listowel, she added. Ms Wall added that the Alliance has been a proud member of KTIF since its inception in 2019 and is represented at board level by Colette OConnor, and on the Marketing Committee by Cara Trant. The importance of KTIF for all parts of the county cannot be overstated and while its important to nurture individual profiles such as Listowel.ie, it is equally important to be part of the bigger county story and work with colleagues throughout Kerry, Ms Wall added. Chair of Kerry Tourism Industry Federation Pat OLeary explained that the new Kerry brand and state of the art www.discoverkerry.com signifies a major milestone for the ongoing economic development of the county. It showcases Kerry as a global leader not only in the tourism sector, for which it is famous, but also as a sustainable location to live and where entrepreneurs can thrive, he said. With what looks to be a bumper year for North Kerry tourism with several new events taking place to compliment the already busy festival calendar in the area, the session proved to be most fruitful with great feedback as the morning closed, OLeary added. For information on the Discover Kerry partnership, visit: www.discoverkerry.com Ukrainian community will host series of events to mark the hurt and resilience caused by Putins war. This Saturday will mark the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces on February 24, 2022, in a move that displaced over six million Ukrainians across Europe and a further eight million civilians within Ukraine. Since 2014, Russias war against Ukraine has destabilised the region causing catastrophic damage to families and communities who have been uprooted by the conflict. Close to 9,000 Ukrainians are still seeking refuge in Kerry and will mark their nations darkest hour at Tralee Town Park this Saturday (February 24) with a peaceful march for Ukraine. People are asked to meet at 11am at the side gate to Tralee Town Park (beside Kerry County Museum) with the march set to start at 11:30am. The march will culminate at The Rose Hotel where a screening of Myrnyi-21 starts at 12 noon. Myrnyi-21 is a 2023 Ukrainian military action drama directed by Akhtem Seitablayev. The plot of the film is based on the real events of 2014, when a detachment of Luhansk border guards, located at the address after which the film is named, fought the Russians who looked to seize the border point. Prayers for peace in Ukraine will also be said in churches across the Diocese of Kerry this weekend. Next week sees the start of Unissued Diplomas at the MTU North Campus Library. This international exhibition honours the memory of 40 Ukrainian students who never got to graduate because their lives were taken by the Russian invasion. MTU is the first venue to present the Unissued Diplomas project in Ireland. In 2023, 110 exhibitions were held at 67 universities in 24 countries. This is Kerry Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Kerry newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details The exhibition aims to remind the world about the ongoing war and the price Ukrainians pay daily in their fight for freedom. The exhibition was visited by former British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson; the Prime Minister of Norway, Frank Wilde, along with representatives of the Australian Senate, Canada, Croatia, Latvia, Peru, the EU, Qatar and other countries. Unissued Diplomas starts at MTU on February 26 and runs until March 15. A protest to demand urgent attention and action to reform eating disorder services across Ireland has been organised in Limerick as part of a multi-city event. The event will take place on Saturday March 2, to coincide with Eating Disorder Awareness Week, in Limerick as well as in Dublin and Cork. Driven by mother Amy Hanley, whose teenage daughter was diagnosed with anorexia in 2022, the protests aim is to highlight the critical need for reform of eating disorder services and call on the government to urgently address the multiple obstacles to receiving treatment in Ireland. Follow Independent Limerick on Facebook In Limerick, the protest will take place outside the main gates of the University Hospital Limerick from 11am to 1pm. Fuelled by her harrowing experience navigating the healthcare system for her daughter, Amy Hanley launched the MindEverybody campaign late last year, organising a protest in Dublin in November. A Change.org petition has also been set up to be delivered to Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly and Minster of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler. Amy Hanley said: "No family or individual should endure the obstacles we faced in securing treatment for my daughter. It's time to dismantle the multiple barriers that impede access to care for eating disorders in this country." "An often overlooked reality is that eating disorders have the highest mortality rate among all mental health conditions. While recovery is attainable, the flaws in our healthcare system can prove detrimental, often worsening or prolonging an illness. "Countless young individuals and their families across Ireland are needlessly suffering as they grapple with the lack of resources in the face of deteriorating physical and mental health. This is unacceptable. We need our voices heard once and for all. Amy explained a recent report by the Health Research Board found the number of child and adolescent admissions for eating disorders more than doubled in 2022 and the number of adults admitted to hospital for eating disorders was the highest in a decade. However, the eating disorder support organisation, Bodywhys, said people admitted to hospital are only a fraction of the individuals experiencing one of these conditions in Ireland. With an estimated 188,895 people in Ireland experiencing an eating disorder at some point in their lives, and approximately 1,757 new cases annually in the 10-49 age group, Amy said the urgency of reforming services cannot be over emphasised. A young Limerick woman will look for love on this weeks episode of First Dates Ireland. Fine art photography student and self-confessed weirdo Kyra, from Limerick, will feature on the popular show on Thursday February 23. At the Gibson Hotel Restaurant the 24-year-old will meet Ben, a 23-year-old from Dublin, who is looking for someone with whom he can go full goblin mode. Other participants on Thursdays show will include software developer Joseph (37) from Donegal who will embark on a romantic voyage of discovery with multilingual tech translator Hyeji (32) from Dublin via Spain, Japan and Korea. While weary of flash boyos and looking for a male version of herself, cafe manager Lorraine (35) will sample a unique first date cocktail served up by barman, romcom fan and fellow Corkonian Eoin (44). Also, free spirited hair stylist Clare (59) from Wexford will meet perennial student Andrew (61) from Cork. But will their shared experience of life in the States unite them? First Dates Ireland airs on Thursdays at 9.35pm on RTE 2. Hundreds of people gathered to protest against 500 asylum seekers in local hotel. Local man Gus Reay speaking at the protest against the closure of the D Hotel. Photo: Colin Bell Photography Herman Kelly leader of the Irish Freedom Party speaking at the protest against the closure of the D Hotel. Frank Godfrey at the protest against the closure of the D Hotel. Photo: Colin Bell Photography Saturday's protest against the closure of the D Hotel. A few hundred people braved the rain on Saturday to attend a protest rally against the d Hotels housing of 500 asylum seekers from March 5th. The protest was organised by the Irish Freedom Party and their local election candidates, along with party president Hermann Kelly, addressed the crowds for over two hours. There had been fears of public order offences or violence, following other high profile protests elsewhere in recent weeks, with the result that there was a heavy Garda presence, but the rally passed off peacefully. This is Louth Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Louth newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Planned road closures along the Marsh Road and Mornington Road proved unnecessary. Protesters gathered at the South Quay and had planned to walk to the entrance of the d Hotel, but the boardwalk and all side doors to Scotch Hall were blocked off. Speakers addressed the crowds from a stage erected close to Scotch Hall. No elected local public representatives were present but former Mayor of Drogheda Frank Godfrey said the closure of the hotel to the public was a sucker punch to the town. I feel very disappointed for the townspeople here today. It's a sucker punch, and we can't take any more, said Frank. We need investment from the government and real recognition. This is the biggest town in Ireland with over 45,000 people and this is like an invasion to the town, worse than that of Cromwell and an invasion from God only knows where. The rally concluded at 4.30pm and the crowd dispersed without incident, and a second protest was planned for the same time on Sunday. All shops in Scotch Hall remained open during the protests. Dundalk man Joseph Woods underwent six months of cheomotherapy in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda Joseph and Katie Woods with their daughter Dayna who was born just after Joseph finished treatment for Hodgkins lymphoma Co Louth man Joseph Woods, who was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma just months after his wife suffered a stroke, is calling on people to support Daffodil Day. "Katie had a stroke on August 19 2019, just a month to the day that we were married, says Joseph from Dundalk. "When she had started to recover, I started to get ill. It all happened in a couple of months. This is Louth Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Louth newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details I had a sore back and when I say sore I mean excruciating. It was so sore that I would collapse and couldnt move for a length of time. He was in and our of hospital before getting a diagnosis of Hodgkins Lymphoma an uncommon cancer that develops in the lymphatic system. "I had six biopsies and surgery. Two days later, he began six months of chemotherapy treatment. The same week that I started chemo, we discovered that Katie was expecting. It was a bittersweet time but it gave me something to fight for, something to look forward to. Joseph underwent six months of chemo, travelling to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda every two weeks. Chemotherapy was pretty tough, it really took its toll on my body, I put on a lot of weight and lost my hair, he says. He also set up a Facebook page Josephs journey with Hodgkins lymphoma to document his illness and to provide hope and support to others in a similar situation "I wanted to document what I was going through and let people know how i was getting on. I also wanted to raise awareness about Hodgkins so that if someone had the same symptoms as me, they would get checked. Dundalk man Joseph Woods underwent six months of cheomotherapy in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda He admits that he was a typical man and didnt go to the doctor straight away when he started getting back pain. "I did what fellas do I put it on the long finger. I thought it was just a pain in the back and took painkillers. If my story helps one person, Ill be happy. I think especially men can put things off, but if there is something wrong, go get it checked. If I hadnt, I might not be here today to tell my story. Joseph and Katie were over the moon in August 2020, when they were told he was cancer free and now in remission. "I have to have routine check ups for five years and at the last one I was told Im still in remission. Their beautiful baby girl, Dayna was born in October 2020. Dayna is now three, and Joseph has since returned to work as a Prison Officer. During treatment, he found great solace in the support of the Irish Cancer Society. I spoke to some Irish Cancer Society Nurses, and it was good to have someone to speak to and know that I wasnt alone, because opening up and talking to people really helps, it makes it so much easier. Since Joseph was diagnosed in 2020, he has lost both his godparents, a cousin, and a friend to cancer. He also praises the North Louth Hospice in Dundalk. They are brilliant. I cant praise them enough. They are all volunteers and were very good to us and well never forget that. To support Daffodil Day see www.cancer.ie Nessa Cosgrove and Bernie Linnane of the Labour Party are calling for a yes-yes vote In referendums to take place on March 8th, the Government proposes expanding the definition of family in the Constitution to recognise durable relationships, such as cohabiting couples and their children, and to replace the language around women in the home with language recognising care within families. The Sligo-Leitrim Labour Party is calling for a Yes-Yes vote. Our Constitution dates from 1937 - a different era in many ways, but it is a living document which can, and should, reflect the Ireland of today. In this 21st century, women stand as equals to men, and our Constitution must recognise this. Clauses which refer to womens life within the home or duties in the home are sexist and patronising. They have no place in the governing document of a modern republic such as ours. Men, too, have lives within the home, and both men and women have lives outside the home. Article 41.2 was problematic for many Irish women even at the time our Constitution was written in 1937. Indeed, Archbishop John Charles McQuaid, one of the architects of the document, was quoted as saying The feminists are getting angry and are moving into action. They seem stung by the suggestion that the normal place for a woman is the home. Those feminists included Kathleen Clarke, widow of Tom Clarke, who had been executed for his part in the 1916 Easter Rising. Kathleen made known her unhappiness with the 1937 Constitution by resigning from the Tom Clarke Cumann of Fianna Fail. While Article 41.2 does not actually say that a womans place is in the home, it is very strongly implied that women, and especially mothers, should be at home and not neglecting their duties. The article may not have prevented women going out to work but neither did it help them to stay at home, if that was their wish. It has not helped or protected any woman, or any mother, during its almost 90 years in our Constitution. Of course, many women do have caring responsibilities within the home, as do many men. Care is provided by mothers, and fathers, by spouses and partners, by siblings, by grandparents, even by children. Article 41.2 has not protected them. Expanding the provisions of the Constitution to oblige the state to strive to support care provided by family members - of any gender - would bring about a long-overdue legal recognition of the valuable work of these 500,000+ family carers, without which we could not achieve the common good. Of course, by itself the amendment will not be enough. Government must step up and do more to support these families, the carers and the cared-for. Nevertheless, this would be an important first step towards recognising and valuing all care, within the home and in our wider society. A Yes vote in favour of the amendment, in the words of Family Carers Ireland, means recognising our role and addressing the support we desperately need. Its about giving dignity and strength to those of us in the shadows. For too long, people have struggled, often unseen and unheard, to provide the care their loved ones desperately need. Its time to bring care out of the shadows. A strong vote will send a message to our government, loud and clear, that we demand meaningful support for family carers, that we care about care. The provisions relating to a womans place are not the only amendment we are being asked to consider on March 8th. There is also the question of what constitutes a family. As it stands, the Constitution says the family is founded on marriage. In Ireland today, where more than 40% of children are born outside of wedlock, it is obvious that the current definition is outdated and excludes many loving families who deserve to be recognised by our state. There are other relationships apart from marriage on which families can be founded. Lone parents and their children are families. Unmarried couples, with or without children, can be families. A grandparent may not be related by marriage to the child they are raising, but they are a family nonetheless and deserve to be given the protection and recognition of our Constitution. Our families today come in all shapes and sizes, and all deserve constitutional protection. It is worth mentioning here that much has been made of the phrase durable relationships with scaremongering suggestions around things like polygamy and so-called throuples. Our Supreme Court has already made it clear that this state does not recognise polygamous marriages because they breach the overriding constitutional principle of equality. Any conjugal relationship with more than two adults must also fail the same test.Married families will lose no rights whatsoever if there is a Yes vote, but families which up to now have not been included will at last be given recognition by the state. Every child deserves a family, and finally we can realise the aspiration to cherish all the children of this country equally in our Constitution. People ask what difference a Yes-Yes vote will make to their everyday lives. In the immediate term, it may not seem like much. To be more than just symbolic, these amendments will need to be followed with action from our government. Our challenge is to use our votes to send a clear signal to those we elect that they must make the legislative changes we need, but, in the meantime, symbols do matter. Symbols can send a message to all our citizens that their families are valued and cherished equally by this state. Symbols can send a message to the family carers of Ireland we see you. We care about you. We want our state to do more to support you. The values we enshrine in our foundational legal text send a signal to Ireland and to the wider world about the kind of nation we aspire to be. Lets make our Constitution fit for the 21st Century. Vote for a fairer, more equal and more caring Ireland. Vote Yes-Yes. News of engagement between Department of Transport officials and Waterford Airport on the business plan which was submitted prior to Christmas, has been welcomed by a Waterford Senator. Fine Gael Senator John Cummins, who is a former member of the board at Waterford Airport, said: It is my understanding that there is now direct engagement between Department officials and Waterford airport regarding the business plan. Some clarity has been sought on certain items that I wouldnt be privy to, but the fact that there is an open channel of communication is welcome. I am sure that any requests for further information can be provided quickly by airport management because I want to see this dealt with as quickly as possible. Speaking in Seanad Eireann, Senator Cummins requested that Eamonn Ryan come before the Senate for a debate on national aviation policy with specific reference to the importance of regional airports and the development of Waterford airport. Support for regional aviation is vital, said Senator Cummins. It is important that this project at Waterford airport is supported by government, it is important for regional Ireland, it is important for connectivity into the South East region and with the huge developments that are ongoing in terms of the North Quays and the development of the University. The airport is a critical infrastructure link and I want to see it debated in the house as urgently as possible. In 2019, the government approved 5 million in matching funding for the Waterford airport project which involves lengthening the current 1,433-metre-long runway to 2,287metres and widening it to 45 metres from its current 30 meters. In February 2022, An Bord Pleanala granted planning permission for the project, as well as confirming Compulsory Purchase Orders for lands adjacent to the airport, which is based at Killowen, Waterford. In December 2023, it was announced that 12 million in private sector investment had been secured from Comer Group International in partnership with the Bolster Group and a business plan seeking matching funding was submitted prior to Christmas. Senator Cummins said: I want to see that dialogue between Minister Ryans officials and Waterford airport happen as expeditiously as possible. There is a window for works to commence on this project through to the end of August when good ground conditions exist, therefore a memo will need to be brought to cabinet by Minister Ryan in a timely manner. A huge amount of work has gone into this project over the last 5 years in particular. There is no question, it is a critical piece of regional infrastructure and one I believe passionately in. Having passenger connectivity to London is obviously the initial top priority but an enhanced runway will enable B737 and A320s service other destinations. I also believe there is huge potential for Waterford to be a hub for aircraft maintenance into the future and free up a clogged up capacity at Dublin airport, concluded Senator Cummins. Brave county Westmeath youngster Oliver Scally is battling a rare, genetic immunodeficiency disorder that affects up to four in every million children. A major fundraising campaign is underway to aid a beautiful and brave Westmeath toddler in his fight against a rare genetic disorder that impacts barely four in every one million people. Courageous 19-month-old Oliver Scally from Moyvore, has been battling the onset of Wiskott Aidrich Syndrome (WAS), an abnormal immune system disease characterised by low platelet count and a reduced ability to form blood clots. The conditions propensity to induce severe eczema and bleeding brought about by platelet deficiencies in the blood often heightens the risk of susceptibility to infections as a result of a defective immune system. Follow Independent Westmeath on Facebook Given the rarity of the condition, the only known treatment available to little Oliver is a bone marrow transplant. In a moving twist, medical tests carried out on Oliver's older sister, Joy (8) returned a match, something that will see the pair undergo a major operation. Due to the irregularities linked to WAS, such bone marrow transplants are currently unavailable in Ireland, meaning Oliver and Joy, together with their parents Aidan and Grace will travel to the UKs Great North Children's Hospital for the life-saving operation and ensuing treatment that will follow. In a bid to rally around the family ahead of that momentous trip, friends and neighbours of the Scallys have launched a concerted fundraising drive to try and support them in their hour of need. Oliver's diagnosis has been truly heartbreaking for his parents, Aidan and Grace along with his sisters, Sarah, Joy and Roisin, read a poignant post on the campaigns aptly dubbed Olivers Army iDonate fundraising page. While Oliver's treatment is covered by the HSE, Aidan and Grace face huge financial pressures over the coming months. Friends have told of how the shock surrounding Olivers diagnosis has turned the couples life upside down virtually overnight. Grace has been unable to work since September 2023 because of Oliver's health and Aidan is self-employed, so at times will be unable to work during Oliver's treatment and recovery, the post stated. The projected timescale for the operation and treatment to recovery is anything from 6 to 12 months. Grace will be staying with Oliver, in Newcastle, during this time, while Aidan will be travelling back and forth to England while also caring for Joy during her recovery and their other daughters at home." To date, the fundraising drive has already raised more than half of the 50,000 total its organisers have set their sights on amassing for the family. The funds raised will go towards the cost of flights, accommodation, meals, and help them keep on top of the everyday costs of living for their family and home, the post added. That appeal was one which was underlined by the touching remarks of Olivers proud uncle, Danny Scally. Taking to his own Facebook page last night (Tuesday), he said while the past few months had been extremely devastating for Olivers parents and sisters, optimism and hopes for a full recovery remained high. There is hopefully light at the end of the tunnel with this life saving treatment that Oliver can go on and lead a normal life and most importantly have the opportunity to be a child that we all desperately want for him, he said. To donate, simply click here. By Toni Ruberto Feb. 22-29, 2024 Here's a look at highlights of things to do this week. Drake and J. Cole. 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27 and Wednesday, Feb. 28 at KeyBank Center. One show wasnt enough for fans of superstar Drake at KeyBank Center, so they had to add another. That's been common on Drakes Its All a Blur Tour that is packed with back-to-back nights of performances in cities nationwide. Born in Toronto, Drake has won numerous Grammy, American Music and Juno awards while selling more than 170 million records. This tour is in support of his eighth studio album, For all the Dogs, which debuted at No. 1 in October and includes First Person Shooting featuring J. Cole who also is on the tour. Judging from past reviews, fans will get to see the two artists perform separately and together. At one of two concerts over the weekend at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, a reviewer noted that they brought the heat, literally and figuratively as multiple fireworks and flames went up after popular songs. From old fans to newcomers, there was something to appreciate. Bloody Mary Fest. Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25 at Buffalo RiverWorks, 359 Ganson St. You'll be the judge at this celebration of the Bloody Mary cocktail. Guests will decide who makes the best Bloody Mary and Most Creative Garnish, for example, as bartenders compete to win the Golden Shaker award. Tickets include a scorecard plus a voucher for each vendor with additional tickets available for purchase. VIP tickets ($65) allow admission from noon to 4 p.m. in the new Silos Event Center on the second floor with brunch stations and early access to vendors. Early general admission tickets are $50 and give you admission one hour early (noon to 4 p.m.). General admission tickets are $40 and give you entrance from 1 to 4 p.m. The Bowling Play. Presented by Second Generation Theatre. Opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 at Sheas Smith Theatre, 658 Main St. Since 2017, 2nd Gens Free Reading Series has been a chance for the theater company to work with new directors and actors during a process where original works are read out loud for the first time. The Bowling Play," written by Artistic Director Kelly Copps, is one of those works and will become the theater companys first world premiere when it opens on Feb. 23. Copps has worked on it for nearly decade with several of the actors inspiring their eventual characters. Jacob Albarella, for one, inspired the character of Buster, a role he is playing in the premiere. He said the process gave him the opportunity as an artist to create something new. "Unlike a play that is already produced, there are no expectations for what my character is supposed to be like, Albarella said. "Kelly has created an endearing slice of life that feels fresh but still familiar. It's a charming escape for a couple hours. The play is directed by Amy Jakiel and also features Connor Graham, Alexandria Watts, Adam Yellen, Nick Lama, Rick Lattimer and Sofia Matlasz. It continues through March 10. Tickets are $35 general, $30 seniors, $15 students. Call 716-508-7480. Fauci and Kramer. Presented by First Look Buffalo Theatre Company. Opens Friday, Feb. 23 at Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center, 705 Renaissance Drive, Amherst. For his new play, local playwright Drew Fornarola looks at the relationship between Dr. Anthony Fauci and playwright/activist Larry Kramer, whose unlikely friendship started in the 1990s when both were fighting the AIDS epidemic from opposite ends of the political spectrum. Kramer was a harsh critic of Fauci but the two eventually gained, through discussions, a mutual respect. "To create great theater, you must have conflict. This relationship offered just that, said Bob Rusch, artistic director/producer First Look. The play is set in Faucis home office when Kramers spirit visits him in 2020 and they discuss, art, power, progress and where we go from here. Kate Powers directs Steve Jakiel as Fauci and Louis Colaiacovo as Kramer. The play runs about 80 minutes. Performances continue through March 17. Tickets are $30 general and $20 for students and seniors (firstlookbuffalo.com). Island Art Exhibit, 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 and 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Buffalo Launch Club, 503 E. River Road, Grand Island. This free fine art exhibit was organized by Grand Island artists Karen McDonough and Maria Laurendi. It features paintings by them as well as Paula Sciuk, Kath Schifano, Danielle Nash and Deborah Rice. We all have varying backgrounds and all love the fine arts, said Sciuk, adding that the six artists are all on a journey of exploration. Eclipse training. 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 at the Buffalo Museum of Science. Recommended for ages 12 and older, this hands-on workshop and discussion will provide details on the eclipse, what to expect and how to view it without damaging your eyes. No registration is necessary. The Sun Revealed. 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 and Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium, SUNY Buffalo State University. This full dome show discusses the history and cultural views of eclipses, how to safely view it and what can be seen from within its shadow. A talk follows on what the total solar eclipse will look like in Buffalo. Can't make it this weekend? The program repeats March 1, 2, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30; and April 5. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. A Co Wexford woman who cares for up to 50 cats in her animal sanctuary faces increased running costs and vet bills as she struggles to stay afloat. Chippers Sanctuary, a sanctuary and rescue service in north Wexford with an emphasis on spaying and neutering cats, has rehomed and rescued hundreds of cats since it was set up over 23 years ago. Enniscorthy woman Helen Kiernan started the sanctuary because of the amount of animal cruelty and neglect she witnessed in the Gorey area where she now lives. Helen worked at Wicklow County Council (WCC) up until a year ago but the sanctuarys heavy workload and trying to balance both roles became too much and she decided to devote herself entirely to the sanctuary. This is Wexford Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wexford newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Since she stopped working at WCC last year, shes been using her savings to fund the sanctuary and shes found that her funds are quickly dwindling. Chippers Sanctuary is a registered charity so it receives a grant from the Department of Agriculture but she says that grant doesnt help with the running costs of the sanctuary and she doesnt get any other financial support. She recently applied for the Community Grant which could net her up to 600 if successful. "Im spending all of my own money on it so that means my little reserves are disappearing which is a worry especially because my vet bills are very high, said Helen. Helen says the running costs of the sanctuary are between 25,000 to 28,000 per year. Before Christmas I paid out 3,500 at the vet and so a lot of my money is going on that. The food bill is around 1,000 per month, litter is around 280 per month. Three of the cats have thyroid issues another cat has heart disease so theyre all on different medications. I have one cat at the vet at the minute so hopefully Ill be able to collect her today, said Helen. Helen attends Avondale Veterinary Clinic in Arklow regularly and deals with Veterinary Surgeon and Director, Mairead Berkery. Only for Mairead I wouldnt be able to do as good a job as Im doing with the cats, shes a fantastic support to me in every way, said Helen. Bob, one of Helens cats was run over by a jeep recently and now suffers with blindness and a broken jaw as a result and she had to undergo surgery. Another one of her cats named Chanel has been diagnosed with wet Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) which is otherwise known as the cat coronavirus. Chanel has been attending a specialist vet hospital in Dublin and the cost of her treatment has been very high as she had to remain there for 84 days and receive full blood intervals. Some of the residents of Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey. Some of the older cats Helen has taking in have been at the sanctuary for years. Others she has rescued and rehomed to elderly people living in the local area. If there was ever a problem theyd ring me and Id take their cat to the vet. Then if the elderly person died, the cat would go back to the sanctuary. It gave people a purpose to keep going in life, said Helen. When she takes on a new cat, she conducts a thorough health check on them ensuring they are spayed, neutered and without fleas before theyre allowed to mix with the other cats in the sanctuary. its run to a very high standard here and theres a lot of very old cats here. I dont believe in putting an animal to sleep without investigating what we can do to help the animal, said Helen. Chippers Sanctuary is purpose built as well as insulated and heated. Its a very nice set up and its easy to clean, said Helen. There are currently 38 cats at the sanctuary but she usually has up to 50 cats. "Im not letting it go any higher than that because its too much work for me. In the morning time, it's around four hours before Im finished and youre never really finished because youre going the whole time and then you have to start again. It's a massive commitment financially, physically and emotionally, said Helen. Helen Kiernan operates Chipper's Sanctuary in Gorey and currently has over 38 cats in her care. Helen spends most of her time at the sanctuary; cleaning, feeding, medicating, emptying litter trays and collecting deliveries. She runs it entirely on her own and as a result she hasnt been able to take days off, go on holidays or visit her sister in Cork. "Im going non-stop and Im feeling tired in the last few months, said Helen. In 2006, she rescued 26 cats from a terrible situation and was featured in the newspaper because of it. My life has never been the same since, she said. Helen said she is reluctant to ask for financial help from the public but the high cost of running the sanctuary has left her with little choice. She set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the sanctuary and so far, shes raised 965 with a target of 2,500. Click here to check out her Go Fund Me page. Tom Enright will depart the role on Friday after ten years With outgoing Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Tom Enright set to serve his last day in the role after a decade on Friday, his successor has been appointed, albeit on a temporary basis. Having only returned to Wexford last year following a three- year secondment with the National Housing Delivery Office in Dublin, Eddie Taaffe has been promoted from Director of Services to Acting Chief Executive of Wexford County Council. A New Ross native, Mr Taaffe first started working with the local authority back in 1997, working in the environment section, roads, as an engineer on the Courtown Main Drainage Scheme and as Borough Engineer in Wexford along the way, among other roles. This is Wexford Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wexford newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details In 2020, he was selected to head up the newly established National Housing Delivery Office, a role which he only returned from late last year. Since then, as well as his role as Director of Services, he also took on the role of Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee ahead of Wexfords hosting of Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2024. It will be one of the biggest tasks that Mr Taaffe will have to oversee as Acting Chief Executive, with a permanent appointment to the role likely to take months to complete. Confirming the news at the February meeting of the Wexford Borough District, Mayor of Wexford John Hegarty said: I dont know whether to be offering congratulations or commiserations, but our own Director here Eddie Taaffe will be assuming the role of Acting Chief Executive. I just wanted to take the opportunity to wish him all the best with that job. People across Wexford are encouraged to spend some time with a book of their choice this Saturday, February 24 for the national Ireland Reads Day. In Wexford library there are a number of events taking place up to and including the big day, each designed to nurture a love of literature in young and old. On the day itself, at 2 p.m., Carlow author Kathleen Murray presents Writing the Deadwood to Life, a workshop where she will provide tips for budding authors. Earlier in the week, on Thursday evening from 6 p.m. to 6.45 p.m. celebrate Ireland Reads with bedtime stories for children aged 3-5. Make sure and wear your favourite pyjamas and bring along your favourite cuddly toy. This is Wexford Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wexford newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Wexford Librarys Young Adult Book Club meet on the last Friday of each month and the February meeting takes place on Friday from 4-5 p.m. The book club gives children aged between 13-17 the opportunity to share their love of books with others during an hour of bookish chatter and activities. The book under discussion for February is: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. Story Time at Wexford Library takes places on Saturday morning, the day of Ireland Reads, from 11 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. This is suitable for children aged 3-7 and families are invited to join in and experience the joy of stories with their kids. Ireland Reads is an initiative of the Government of Ireland to celebrate the joy of reading. It is funded by Healthy Ireland and supported by public libraries and many organisations that promote reading, literacy and the arts. Tony Fitzgerald, Dylan Coleman, Oskar R. and Michael McAllister with Beth Murray, Elsha Murphy and Naomi Wall of the Bray Wanderers U17s team at the Luca Earls and Fionn McGrath enjoying the Bray Wanderers Open Day at the Carlisle Grounds, Bray. Christ Church COI Services of Worship for this Sunday The Second Sunday in Lent: 11am Holy Communion. Forthcoming Event - Saturday March 2nd: 11amWorld Day of Prayer Service in St. Peters Church, Little Bray. Parish Life Centre [PLC] Bookings: The Parish Life Centre is available for day and evening bookings. Please contact Tracey in the Parish Office at 01-286 2968. Parish Office: The Parish Office can be contacted at 01- 286 2968 or info@christchurchbray.ie between 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday. Connect Online: Our most active communication tools currently are our Website www.christchurchbray.ie which contains information on our live streamed worship services, weekly Blogs, events and news, and our facebook page @christchurchbray. Irish Trefoil GuildGuiding for Life: Calling all former leaders of the Irish Girl Guides in Bray and the surrounding area. There is now a Trefoil Guild in Bray. Contact Anne at braytrefoilguild@gmail.com. Bray Methodist Church Worship for this Sunday: 10amSunday Worship with Creche and Sunday School. Bray Presbyterian Church Worship for this Sunday: 11.30am Sunday Worship. Christian Assembly Church Worship for this Sunday: 10.45am Morning Worship; Wednesdays: 8pm Prayer Meeting & Bible study. Cornerstone Church at The Well Worship this Sunday: 11am. Bray Gospel Hall Bray Gospel Hall, 27 Florence Road - Sunday Morning: 10.45am to 12 Noon: Breaking of Bread (Lords Supper)A Time of Worship, Praise and Remembrance. Holy Redeemer Parish Mass Times: 10amMonday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday No Mass on Tuesday. Sunday Masses: 6pm Vigil Mass on Saturday and on Sunday at 10.30am and 12Noon. To book a Mass, please call into the Sacristy before or after our Masses. Baptism: Registration for Baptism can be made online via the parish website www.holyredeemerbray.ie. St. Peters Parish St. Peters Church Mass Times: Sunday: 9.30am (Irish), 11.30am. Holy Days of Obligation: 11.30am. No Weekday Mass. Mass on the First Friday of the Month is celebrated at 10am. Sunday Mass is broadcast on the parish web-site at 9.30am (Irish) and 11.30am (English)Google Chrome required. Forthcoming Event Saturday March 2nd: 11amWorld Day of Prayer Service in St. Peters Church, Little Bray. Car Park Hours: These are from 9am to 12.30pm, Monday to Friday, for parish business and at the weekends during church ceremonies. The Cemetery is accessible via the laneway for pedestrians. St. Peters Cemetery: There is a strict policy of No Dumping Allowed in any area of the cemetery. Visitors to the cemetery are requested to take home all forms of rubbish with them in order to keep the cemetery tidy. Your co-operation is appreciated. St. Annes Church, Shankill: A Vigil Mass is celebrated on Saturdays at 5pm. All are welcome. St Fergals Parish Mass Times: Mass times are 9.30am Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. No morning Mass on Thursdays and Saturdays. Saturday: 7pm Vigil Mass; Sundays: 8am and 10.30am. Baptism: Baptisms take place on the first and third Saturday of each Month at 12Noon. Bookings can be made through the Parish Office Only. The Preparation meeting takes place on the Monday before the 1st Saturday of the month. Please call into the Parish Office three weeks in advance of the Baptism to complete the Baptism Form and to confirm the date. Confessions: Are heard on Saturdays after the 7pm Vigil Mass. Marriage: All couples must give notice to the priest or Parish Secretary at least three months prior to the date of marriage. Syro Malabar Catholic Church Mass is celebrated every Sunday at 2.30pm in St. Fergals Church, Ballywaltrim. Our Lady Queen of Peace Church Opening Hours: The Church closes at 4.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Adoration takes place from 11am to 10pm on Mondays only in this Church. Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am and 12 Noon on Sundays. Mass Bookings: Anyone who wishes to book a Mass can do so by contacting the Parish Secretary via email at: secretary@queenofpeace.ie, or call 2745497. Parish Centre: To book a meeting room in the Parish Centre please call 01-2760045 or email: villafas1@hotmail.com. QOP youth club Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Clubs coming events include Glen of the Downs night walk, pool swimming, quiz, yoga, climb on Bray Head, Dublin trip, training in the use of Walkie Talkie, and first aid. A trip to climb Croagh Patrick is planned for April. This club has a huge variety of interesting and challenging items for all of 2024. For information about joining call Paul on 086 3516630, and you could get very active very soon. Diving club Bray Divers Sub-aqua Club member Angel Todorov had his last dive with the club on Sunday with Jeff Behan. It was a long cold dive in a Wicklow lake, and both of them enjoyed it. Angel had over sixty dives with the club, and he has now returned to Bulgaria with some happy memories of his stay in Ireland. There are vacancies for new members, and training will begin in March. Call Albert on 087 6756439 for details, and you could be a diver before Easter. Bray Library Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8.30pm. The library can be contacted at 01-2862600 or email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website. The library is again involved in Imbolc, the Community Seed Arc programme, where one can get seeds for a variety of plants and after they flower, donate seeds from them for the programme. As always, you can have seeds sent to your local Wicklow Library branch by emailing your branch - and requesting up to 4 packets. Doodle Time for 9-12 year olds takes place every Thursday from 3pm to 4pm. Afterschool Storytime takes place every Tuesday at 3pm in the Junior Library. The Junior Book Club (ages 9 to 11) is now accepting new members. It meets on the second Monday of each month at 3.15pm. Email:braylibrary@wicklowcoco.ie or ask at the library desk to book a place. This Saturday as part of the Bray Library Comic Club Adult Edition, Elida Maiques and Debbie Jenkinson will be in conversation at 3pm email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie to book a place. Next Monday morning there will be a recital King of the Fairies a musical story about the Irish fairy king and his magical harpwith Aisling Ennis in this library at 10am. All are welcome. A Romance Book Club commences next month (March) and will take place at 7pm on the first Tuesday of the month. To book a place email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie. Ballywaltrim Library Opening hours are 10am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Wednesday. The library can be contacted at 01-2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website. Borrowers can renew their books on-line at any time. Tummy-Time for Babies takes place every Monday and Friday from 10.30am to 12pm no booking required. Bray Cualann Historical Society Last Thursday night the Bray Cualann Historical Society, the local history society for Bray and North Wicklow, and Sunbeam House Trust, held two events to mark the events of 150 years ago that shaped future healthcare when Lucinda Sullivan (nee Brady), opened a home to care for crippled children in Bray. As a result of Lucindas actions other childcare facilities opened in Bray. The evening commenced with a wreath laying ceremony at the Cornerstone Church (St. Pauls), opposite the Royal Hotel, at 7pm and then continued in the Royal Hotel, Bray, at 8pm with an illustrated presentation from Brian White recalling Victorian Childcare in BrayMarking the 150th Anniversary of the Cripples Home, Bray. Members and supporters of the Bray Cualann Historical Society are asked to note that today (Wednesday) Dr. Stephen Ferguson will present Postal History at 7.30pm to the Greystones Archaeological & Historical Society in Kilian Family Centre, beside Holy Rosary Church, Greystones. All are welcome admission is 3; David Doyle will present Carriglea Park House, a local witness to Irish History at 8pm to the Dun Laoghaire Borough Historical Society in the Royal Marine Hotel, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. All are welcomeadmission is 5; tomorrow (Thursday) at 6.30pm Drumcondra Library Millmount Avenue, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 will host History of Drumcondra: a chat with Mary Muldowney to reserve a place email: drumcondralibrary@dublincity.ie; Tony Cooke will present Iarnrod Eireann in the 1990s at 7.30pm in the Societys Hueston Station, Dublin 8, premises. Strictly members and their guests only; Dr John O Neill will present Lunulae and the Early Bronze Age in Atlantic Europe: some rediscoveries at 7.30pm to the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland in the Helen Roe Theatre, 63 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2. All are welcome admission is free; next Monday night Dr. Mary Muldowney will present From the Earl of Drogheda to Tony Gregory: 325 years of Moore Streets History at 8pm to the Clondalkin Historical Society in Aras Chronain Irish Cultural Centre, Watery Lane, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin. All are welcomeadmission is 5 for non-members; next Tuesday Brian White will present St. Patrick: the man, the myth, the legend at 8pm to the Wicklow Historical Society in the De la Salle Pastoral Centre, Wicklow Town. All are welcome donation; next Wednesday Elizabeth Kehoe will present Curfews in Dublin 1920-21 in the Dublin Central Library, Ilac Centre, Henry Street, Dublin 1. Admission is free but booking is required book in branch, call 01-2228300 or email: centrallibrary@dublincity.ie; Cormac F. Lowth will present The Sailing Trawlers of Ringsend at 6pm to the Old Dublin Society in the Conference Room, Dublin City Library & Archive, 139-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2. All are welcomeadmission is free. The next meeting of the Bray Cualann Historical Society will take place at 8pm on Thursday March 21st when Margaret McGuirk will present The Phoenix Park, Dublin in the Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, and all are welcome to attend admission for visitors/non-members is 8. The Bray Cualann Historical Society is always interested in new members and those wishing to join the Society can do so at their March 21st meeting in the Royal Hotel, Bray, or log onto the Societys website to obtain more information. Poetry in the Park Poetry in the Park takes place on the First Sunday of Every Month at 12pm on the bandstand in the Peoples Park, Lower Dargle Road, Bray. Listen to or read your favourite poems, hear original poetry performed by local poets or simply chat with other poetry fans in this beautiful outdoor setting on the banks of the River Dargle. Parish of Powerscourt with Kilbride Services at Powerscourt with Kilbride: All Services are available on the Parish YouTube Channel. Service of Worship in St. Patricks Church, Powerscourt, for this Sunday The Second Sunday in Lent: 11.30am Holy Communion 2. Service of Worship in St. Brigids Church, Kilbride, for this Sunday The Secord Sunday in Lent: 9.45am Morning Prayer 1. Love Life Live Lenta five-week course for Lent in collaboration with our friends from St. Marys, Enniskerry: Love Life Live Lent is a different way of approaching Lent, one which focuses on taking up positive actions for the good of all. Often Lent has been about giving up things traditionally some sorts of food, but these days more likely chocolate or alcohol. We give up things with a view to focus more closely on our relationship with God. While there are elements of giving up in the daily actions (well think about that in week 2) the focus of the actions is on generosity and being life-giving. Week 1: Today (Wednesday)The Wedding at Cana: Love Life; Week 2: February 28thThe Bethesda Pool: Letting Go; Week 3: March 6thFeeling Good or Washing Feet?: Whats in it for me?; Week 4: March 13thFeeding 5000: Whats in it for them? Week 5: March 20thMan Born Blind: Taking Action Making a difference. Irish Trefoil GuildGuiding for Life: Calling all former leaders of the Irish Girl Guides in Bray and the surrounding area. There is now a Trefoil Guild in Bray. Contact Anne at braytrefoilguild@gmail.com. St. Marys Church Parish Website: www.enniskerryparish.ie is the Parish website of the Immaculate Heart of Marycheck it out for the latest information about our parish. Facebook Page: There is a facebook page for the parish of Enniskerry, incorporating all four churches which facebook users will find under Enniskerry parish with a cover photo of trees and profile picture of a quote from Pope Francis. Please give it a like and feel free to post news from your community. Enniskerry (also Curtlestown & Glencree) Parish Office opening times: Monday to Friday: 10am to 1pm; email: stmarys@enniskerryparish.ie; or call 01-2760030. St. Mochonogs Parish Office opening times: Monday: 9am to 2pm, Tuesday: (by phone) 10am to 1pm, Wednesday: 10am to 2pm, Thursday (by phone) 10am to 1pm. Closed Friday. Parish Churches Schedule of Masses: EnniskerrySt Marys: Saturday evening 6pm and also via parish webcam; Sunday 11am and also via parish webcam. Weekday Mass at Enniskerry is at 10.15am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and also via parish webcam lay-led prayer service on Wednesday; and Saturday at 10.15 am, and also available via the parish webcam. Masses in Curtlestown and Kilmacanogue are on Sunday at 10am. Mass in Glencree is at 9am on the first Sunday each month. Baptism Requests: Requests for Baptism now take place online at www.enniskerryparish.ie. Love Life Live Lenta five-week course for Lent in collaboration with our friends from St. Patricks Powerscourt: Love Life Live Lent is a different way of approaching Lent, one which focuses on taking up positive actions for the good of all. Often Lent has been about giving up things traditionally some sorts of food, but these days more likely chocolate or alcohol. We give up things with a view to focus more closely on our relationship with God. While there are elements of giving up in the daily actions (well think about that in week 2) the focus of the actions is on generosity and being life-giving. Week 1: Today (Wednesday)The Wedding at Cana: Love Life; Week 2: February 28thThe Bethesda Pool: Letting Go; Week 3: March 6thFeeling Good or Washing Feet?: Whats in it for me?; Week 4: March 13thFeeding 5000: Whats in it for them? Week 5: March 20thMan Born Blind: Taking Action Making a difference. Church Music Group: We meet on Tuesday evenings at 7.15pm in St. Marys Church. We would love to have a few more voices. If you would like to try, just come along and you will be warmly welcomed. Downtime Thursday: Why not pop into St. Marys Church for some quiet time on Thursday February 29th from 7pm to 8.30pm. You can sit in silence with candlelight and gentle music. Take a few minutes for yourself and just be. Light a candle, say a prayer. Just sit if thats what you need. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place. Retirement: Our beloved Margaret is retiring from St. Marys parish office. By way of marking the occasion, a Mass will be celebrated at 11am in St. Marys on Sunday March 3rd for her family, friends, and parishioners. Refreshments/light lunch and a presentation will take place directly after Mass in the Summer Hill Hotel. All are welcome. Creating a Liturgical/Community Space: Over the last few years several suggestions have been made, through the parish pastoral council, as to how we could create a gathering space in St. Marys, for community and liturgical events in the parish. One of the suggestions had been to remove some benches from the back of the church and create a designated and attractive space for this purpose. As time passed, and it was obvious that the number attending was continuing to fall, the decision was made to go ahead with the project. The next step was to identify how many benches we would need to move to create enough space. That decision was made for us, as there are only four benches in the church without plaques. We now propose to move these, and make full use of the space it will give. The plan, once the benches are removed, is to create a space, which will be clearly visible as a designated place for meeting, welcoming, and praying together in a more intimate setting. We will pay particular attention to the quality of furnishings and how the space will be marked out. It should be a great asset to the community. Gatherings for tea/coffees, to a smaller more intimate space for the celebration of daily Eucharist will be an option. We envisage using this space for invited speakers and guests to engage the community in prayer in so many different shapes and forms. It will be a Godsend for the ongoing faith development of sacramental families. This is an option that a number of other churches in the Dublin diocese have opted for very successfully. We plan to hold a meeting soon so that interested parties can express their views. Broadcast List: A broadcast list for the parish is now up and running. This is to keep everyone up to date with what is happening in the parish and for easy communication in relation to building our communities. If you would like your name added to the list please contact Aideen 086-8182 241. New Here? You are very welcome. Please keep up to date with us at www.enniskerryparish.ie. You can register as a parishioner by mailing us at stmarys@enniskerryparish.ie or stmochonogs@enniskerryparish.ie. If you wish to receive items, or if you would like to receive the Parish Link by email weekly please phone the Parish Office in Enniskerry on 01-2760030 (10am to 1pm Monday to Friday or email: stmarys@enniskerry.ie; and Kilmacanogue on 01-2021882. (10am to 1pm) Mondayto Thursday, or email:stmochonogs@enniskerryparish.ie. Rosary: A group from the parish meets every Wednesday evening, on Zoom, from 7.30pm to8pm to pray the Rosary. Please call or message 087-4189 338, to be added to the group or for further information. Society of St. Vincent de Paul: The local telephone number is 01-8550022. History Society Members and supporters of the Enniskerry History Society are asked to note that the following events will take place in the week ahead. Today (Wednesday) Dr. Stephen Ferguson will present Postal History at 7.30pm to the Greystones Archaeological & Historical Society in Kilian Family Centre, beside Holy Rosary Church, Greystones. All are welcome admission is 3; David Doyle will present Carriglea Park House, a local witness to Irish History at 8pm to the Dun Laoghaire Borough Historical Society in the Royal Marine Hotel, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. All are welcomeadmission is 5; tomorrow (Thursday) at 6.30pm Drumcondra Library Millmount Avenue, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 will host History of Drumcondra: a chat with Mary Muldowney to reserve a place email: drumcondralibrary@dublincity.ie; Tony Cooke will present Iarnrod Eireann in the 1990s at 7.30pm in the Societys Hueston Station, Dublin 8, premises. Strictly members and their guests only; Dr John O Neill will present Lunulae and the Early Bronze Age in Atlantic Europe: some rediscoveries at 7.30pm to the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland in the Helen Roe Theatre, 63 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2. All are welcome admission is free; next Monday night Dr. Mary Muldowney will present From the Earl of Drogheda to Tony Gregory: 325 years of Moore Streets History at 8pm to the Clondalkin Historical Society in Aras Chronain Irish Cultural Centre, Watery Lane, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin. All are welcomeadmission is 5 for non-members; next Tuesday Brian White will present St. Patrick: the man, the myth, the legend at 8pm to the Wicklow Historical Society in the De la Salle Pastoral Centre, Wicklow Town. All are welcome donation; next Wednesday Elizabeth Kehoe will present Curfews in Dublin 1920-21 in the Dublin Central Library, Ilac Centre, Henry Street, Dublin 1. Admission is free but booking is required book in branch, call 01-2228300 or email: centrallibrary@dublincity.ie; Cormac F. Lowth will present The Sailing Trawlers of Ringsend at 6pm to the Old Dublin Society in the Conference Room, Dublin City Library & Archive, 139-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2. All are welcomeadmission is free. Enniskerry Library Opening hours are Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Wednesday: 2pm to 4.30pm & 6pm to 8pm; Friday: 10.30am to 12.30pm & 1.30pm to 4.30pm; Saturday: 10am to 2.30pm. The library is closed on Mondays and Thursdays and on the Saturdays of Bank Holiday weekends. The library can be contacted at 01-2864339 or email: enniskerrylib@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available from the library website. By the time the train to Dublin gets to Arklow, you wont get a seat. When it gets to Rathdrum and Wicklow town, you might not even get on Local councillors have hit out at the diabolical overcrowding of Wicklow trains after receiving a correspondence from Iarnrod Eireann that lacked any definitive resolution. At the request of Arklow Councillor Pat Fitzgerald, Fianna Fail Senator Gerry Horkan recently investigated long-running issues with capacity and infrequency of services on the Dublin to Rosslare train line, which stops in Bray, Greystones, Kilcoole, Wicklow town, Rathdrum and Arklow. Having informed Mr Horkan how north and southbound trains are regularly full and commuters are often left standing for the full journey, the Senator came back to Cllr Fitzgerald with a reply from Iarnrod Eireann, which he circulated at this months Arklow Municipal District meeting. Iarnrod Eireann is currently investing in two further fleet orders, the correspondence reads. Namely, 41 railcar carriages, which have now arrived. These begin entering service in spring 2024. As they are intermediate carriages, they will facilitate the lengthening of existing train sets. The decision on the deployment of the 41 ICRs will be based on current and projected demand and infrastructure capacity and is subject to the approval of the National Transport Authority. Iarnrod Eireann also explained how two additional orders of 185 electric and battery-powered carriages for the DART+ Fleet were made in December 2021 (95 carriages) and December 2022 (90), with up to 750 cars in total to be ordered over the coming decade, and the first 95 carriages entering service in 2025. DART+ Coastal South is being progressed, and we expect to undertake public consultation in 2024 on plans specifically around enhancing capacity and frequency of services south of Bray, the response continued. As part of the Dart+ Project, specific infrastructure upgrades are being considered at Bray and Greystones to enable greater service levels through this section. Such upgrades would also reduce service gaps, which are required to pass both intercity and DART services through this restricted section of track. Having received a similar correspondence from the NTA (National Transport Authority) in January, which was deemed wishy-washy by councillors and gave no mention of improvements for south Wicklow, Cllr Fitzgerald, Chairman of the Wicklow County Council Transportation SPC, told the Arklow chamber how he had lost all faith that improvements would come quick enough for the district. It seems there will be extra carriages down the line, and Iarnrod Eireann have said they will follow up on it, but I wouldnt be confident, Cllr Fitzgerald said at the Arklow MD meeting. Honestly, the service is diabolical. I came back on the train from Dun Laoghaire there recently, and once you got on, people were hanging out of the roof. It was embarrassing. People older than me were standing, and you could hear people moaning. One lady told me that you cant get in the doors sometimes. In the mornings, by the time the train to Dublin gets to Arklow, you wont get a seat. When it gets to Rathdrum and Wicklow town, you might not even get on. Iarnrod Eireann is not treating the people of Arklow or south Wicklow fairly, to be quite honest about you, he continued. They keep saying improvements are coming, but they have done nothing over the last two years to increase capacity. They dont like to hear us complaining, but we have had nothing but huffing and puffing from them. It is all DART this and DART that, but they dont come here. Then I hear about improvements in Waterford, New Ross, Wexford and Rosslare but nothing for south Wicklow. The Wicklow SPC members, including Councillors Joe Behan and Derek Mitchell, have been trying to put pressure on, but all we get back are these generic replies. I tell you, something is seriously wrong when more people are standing on a train than sitting, people on crutches standing, and wheelchair users with no space to go. The way our commuters are being treated is an utter disgrace. Raising her concerns about passengers health and safety issues due to overcrowding, Councillor Miriam Murphy, who is a wheelchair user, asked for a detailed study on passenger numbers and carriage capacity. I think this is a huge health and safety issue, and Id like it if we could get some stats on how many people use it and what the capacity of these trains is, she said. Ive been on that train, and there are only a few places I can park my wheelchair. When it is that full, it feels like you have someone sitting on your shoulder for the whole journey, and it is very invasive. I propose that we write to Iarnrod Eireann and demand a meeting, so we can ask about seating capacity. Responding to the councillors, District Manager Leonora Earls explained how she had recently met Jim Meade, CEO of Iarnrod Eireann, and expressed their frustrations. It is important to say that we share your frustrations, and we have communicated the whole issue of service to Irish Rail, Ms Earls said. We met with Jim Meade, the CEO of Irish Rail, and expressed that to him. I was at a meeting with the NTA (National Transport Authority) last week, and again, we raised the service. Any opportunity we get, we are raising it, and wed encourage you all to do the same. We need to put in as much correspondence as possible, and be constant with it. Interjecting, Cathaoirleach of the Arklow Municipal District, Tommy Annesley, bluntly said: We are 100 years behind the rest of Europe. I went to Utrecht to cycle a bicycle, and the first thing I noticed was the rail service. Double-decker trains. I couldnt believe it I was absolutely blown away! We have a TD who works for Iarnrod Eireann in Stephen Matthews, and he has the inside track here. They need to do something. I was going to say, we need to be putting pressure on our TDs they should be doing this for us, Councillor Peir Leonard agreed. This is their job, and all Im hearing is the electric rail is coming to Wicklow its like Arklow doesnt exist. Not a mention of Arklow in that response from Iarnrod Eireann. Its up to us to hold them to account and to send correspondence to them too. Id like to thank Pat (Fitzgerald) and Leonora (Earls) for the work theyre doing to get these extra carriages because they are sorely needed. Bafta has issued a clarification after viewers expressed their upset at Friends star Matthew Perrys exclusion from the televised In Memoriam segment. The Bafta Film Awards took place on Sunday (18 February) at Londons Royal Festival Hall, honouring the best releases and cinema talent of the past year. Scottish actor David Tennant, known for his starring roles in Doctor Who and Broadchuch, hosted the ceremony and began proceedings with a speech that divided some viewers. Later in the programme, there was more criticism to come as Friends star Perry was left out of the In Memoriam package. During the segment, Ted Lasso actor Hannah Waddingham performed a stripped-back version of Cyndi Laupers Time After Time as the screen showed images and clips of some film industry figures whod passed away since last years ceremony. The emotionally moving section included tributes to stars including Jane Birkin, Glynis Johns, Carl Weathers, Julian Sands, Tom Wilkinson and Tina Turner. Harry Belafonte, Alan Arkin and Sir Michael Gambon were also honoured. However, a tribute to Perry was noticeably absent. The actor died in October, aged 54, at his home in Los Angeles following years of substance abuse. Some viewers turned to social media to air their disappointment. One X/Twitter user wrote: No mention of Matthew Perry in the #BAFTAs memorial?! Bad form @BAFTA. Elsewhere, another fan added: Only came to make sure I wasn't the only person saddened at the glaring omission by @BAFTA of #MatthewPerry during the in memoriam tributes! #BAFTA2024 Im pleased to see its not just me! Following the outraged response, Bafta issued a statement that noted that Perrys exclusion was not an oversight, confirming that he will be honoured in May at the Bafta TV awards, instead. The statement added: We confirm he will be honoured in our forthcoming Bafta television awards in May, and on the in memoriam section on our website. Though Perry was best known for his role as Chandler Bing in all 10 seasons of the seminal New York-based sitcom, he also starred in several films throughout his career. Baftas website states that Perrys success in Friends brought film opportunities, including Fools Rush In (1997), The Whole Nine Yards (2000) and its sequel, The Whole Ten Yards (2004), and 17 Again (2009). Along with Perry, TV director Roy Battersby will be remembered in the forthcoming TV awards after Kate Beckinsale, Battersbys stepdaughter, campaigned for his inclusion. A Bafta spokesperson called Battersby a renowned and trailblazing director in a statement, and said the awards show was sorry to hear of his death. Barry Keoghan has said he feels his nudity scene in Saltburn was true vulnerability as he paid homage to the viral moment in Vanity Fairs Hollywood issue photoshoot. In Emerald Fennells black comedy, the Irish actor plays a student at Oxford who becomes enthralled by a wealthier classmate and pays a visit to his sprawling estate. At the end of the film, he can be seen dancing around the manor house in the nude to Sophie Ellis-Bextors hit Murder On The Dance Floor, propelling the song back into the charts. In a video clip promoting Vanity Fairs annual Hollywood issue, a host of global actors can be seen posing and chatting before it ends with Keoghan in the buff. 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 At first, the actor has his back turned to the camera before he turns around to smile while clasping his hands in front of his crotch. Discussing how he feels about the publics reaction to the films scene, Keoghan, 31, told the US outlet: Its crazy. It can be detrimental to the mind and your mental state if you read into it too much or you look at too much stuff being said. But I wouldnt go there if I wasnt prepared for that, or if I wasnt open to receiving what people want to say. I think it shows an act of maturity in your craft, and if it justifies the story and moves it forward, why not? You look at European cinema and they tend to have a lot of scenes that involve nudity, and its not a massive thing, really. But I think its true art. It really is. And its true vulnerability as well. Youre really kind of putting yourself out there in the most vulnerable state. Its beautiful to look at. Im not saying its because of my body but its freeing to see that body move around in the way it does. Its like a moving painting, almost. The actor admitted he had been more concerned about the dancing than the nudity but said he was pretty impressed at how his moves came across. I was afraid to move my hips and move my body in a certain way but the set was made quite comfortable for me, he added. Once the camera goes up I always feel a bit safe, and I have the licence to kind of waltz in that environment. Keoghan also praised his co-star Jacob Elordi, who plays his wealthy classmate Felix Catton in the film, saying: Hes my baby boy. I love Jacob. Hes one of my best friends. He added that the Euphoria star has always got his back as they both navigate their stratospheric rise to fame. Keoghans role in Saltburn earned him critical praise along with Bafta and Golden Globe nominations for best actor. Last year, he won the best supporting actor Bafta and was nominated for an Oscar in the same category for his role in tragi-comedy The Banshees Of Inisherin. Colin Farrell (L) Barry Keoghan (Searchlight Pictures/PA) Speaking about adjusting to his swift rise to fame, he said: Its new for me, man. Its quite a scary one as well, because Im not used to this much attention. Its overwhelming, if Im quite honest. Its almost a different kind of life that youve got to be living now. I just want to make movies and fecking play parts and work with filmmakers, and not focus on this noise too much. Keoghan also appears alongside Hollywood stars including Jodie Comer, Bradley Cooper, Pedro Pascal, Natalie Portman, Lily Gladstone, Jenna Ortega, Colman Domingo, DaVine Joy Randolph, Greta Lee and Charles Melton in Vanity Fairs latest Hollywood Issue. LS Lowrys painting Sunday Afternoon will be publicly displayed for the first time in 57 years (Christies/PA) LS Lowrys 1957 painting Sunday Afternoon, which is worth more than 4 million, will be publicly displayed for the first time in 57 years before it goes up for auction next month. China-born Australian democracy blogger decides against appealing death sentence for espionage Yang Hengjun was found guilty of espionage following a closed trial and sentenced two weeks ago to death with a two-year reprieve Yang Hengjun, left, and his wife Yuan Xiaoliang (Chongyi Feng via AP, File) Rod McGuirk Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 07:27 A China-born Australian democracy blogger will not appeal his suspended death sentence imposed by a Beijing court, with his family saying on Wednesday a legal challenge would be detrimental to his welfare. A passerby reported finding a dead body at about 9 a.m. Friday near the railroad tracks on Gatchell Street in Buffalo's Broadway-Bailey neighborhood, according to a spokesman for the Buffalo Police Department. The spokesman described the deceased victim as a 46-year-old Buffalo woman who, he said, was struck and killed by a train. The identity of the woman was not released. The incident, which occurred near the CSX Transportation Frontier Yard, remains under investigation. CSX has its own police department. Harold McNeil Britain's Trident nuclear deterrent system misfired during a test last month, when a missile crashed into the ocean off the Florida coast near the submarine that launched it, The Sun newspaper reported on Wednesday. TV presenter Dan Wootton has said two police forces will take no further action after investigations into criminal allegations against him. The New Zealand-born broadcaster said in a statement that he had been completely cleared after the investigations by the Metropolitan Police and Police Scotland. Stella Assange human rights campaigner, wife of the incarcerated WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and mother of his two youngest children is sitting on the stage where her husband first leaked the Afghan war logs in 2010, telling me about her latest dream. Shes standing in an airport, having just missed her flight to Assanges hometown of Melbourne, and looks back to see what the commotion behind her is about. Theres a man on the floor and she realises its Assange, her partner of the last 13 years and the man at the centre of this weeks freedom-of-information wars after a crucial final attempt at blocking his extradition to the US. What happened to Navalny can happen to Julian, says wife Stella Assange as his lawyers make last throw of dice to avoid extradition to US WikiLeaks founder will not get fair trial on American spying charges, UKs High Court told Julian Assange's wife references Alexei Navalny as husband set for final appeal against US extradition Jill Lawless Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 03:30 Julian Assanges lawyers yesterday opened a final UK legal challenge to stop the WikiLeaks founder from being sent to the US to face spying charges, arguing American authorities are seeking to punish him for exposing serious criminal acts by the US government. Alexei Navalny killed by 'KGB hallmark' punch to the heart, human rights campaigner claims We all know it was murder - Senior Tory says Putin is responsible for Alexei Navalnys death Lydia Chantler-Hicks Evening Standard Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 13:59 Alexei Navalny may have been killed with a punch to the heart after being left outside where temperatures can plummet to -27C, a human rights group leader has claimed. Heartbroken mother of Alexei Navalny begs Putin to return her sons corpse so she can bury him with dignity EU leaders are urged to increase level of sanctions against Putins regime A still from the video released by Lyudmila Navalnaya, mother of Alexei Navalny Emma Burrows and Dasha Litvinova Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 03:30 The mother of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has appealed to Russias president Vladimir Putin to intervene and turn her sons body over to her, so she can bury him with dignity. The Kremlin has been trying to kill Alexei Navalny for several years but there has probably never been a better time to do it than now. Hamas carried out systematic rapes during October 7 attack, Israeli researchers find Separate UN report finds credible reports of rape, sexual assault and naked strip searches among the hundreds of Palestinian women and girls detained by Israeli authorities since October 7 Members of the Israeli security forces search the Supernova music festival site, where hundreds were killed and dozens taken prisoner by Hamas militants on October 7. Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Melanie Lidman and Maeve Cullinan Telegraph.co.uk Wed 21 Feb 2024 at 17:27 The Association of Rape Crisis Centres in Israel says it found evidence of systematic and intentional rape and sexual abuse during the Hamas attack on October 7 that ignited the war in Gaza. There were dozens of CCTV cameras, but no clue where she is disappearance of Jean Tighe four years ago was plagued by confusion from the start Presidents war chest grows following shaky polling US president Joe Bidens re-election campaign and his Democratic Party allies raised more than $42m (39m) in January and have $130m (120m) cash-on-hand as they prepare for a likely general election contest against Republican Donald Trump. The fundraising figures, released by Mr Bidens campaign, were propelled by small-dollar donors giving money online, officials said. Januarys fundraising haul driven by a powerhouse grassroots fundraising programme that continues to grow month by month is an indisputable show of strength to start the election year, Mr Bidens campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a statement. For decades, the most exciting places to be in retail were shopping malls. They replaced small town Main Street as the center of the community, and drew all the top brands to their rosters. But over the years, online shopping and changing consumer preferences have led to a steep decline in mall traffic and pushed the best brands online and into retail plazas. Now, Uniland Development and Mountain Development Corp. are in the process of transforming the Eastern Hills Mall into what's called a "town center" project a walkable mix of retail, restaurants, residential and commercial uses along with green space and events. Town center projects, such as Ohio's Crocker Park, have become extremely successful in other parts of the country, turning into regional tourist destinations and thriving districts. Plans to transform Eastern Hills Mall in Clarence and Boulevard Mall in Amherst into town centers are among the most anticipated projects in Western New York retail. "Everything old is new again," said Carl Montante, Jr., Uniland's vice president of marketing and strategic initiatives. Here's what Montante had to say about the concept, who it might draw and how Uniland hopes to position it to succeed. Q: How is this project the future of retail? A: We consider this town center as a somewhat of an urban village that's more akin to some of the smaller towns in Europe. The principles are the same. It's walkable. Whether you live there or you go there in a car and park, you have a variety of different activities or destinations that you can enjoy while you're there. For people who live there, they can walk to work and then walk to the gym after work, and then go out to one of a dozen or so restaurants and meet friends. You can do your grocery shopping or go see a doctor all without the need of a car. We're going to have a lot of green space. People can go and hang out bump into friends. Even if you don't know what you want to do, it's a good place to go and figure it out, or just walk around and people watch. It's that active, urban, walkable lifestyle. It really doesn't exist around the region to the level that we're planning with this town center. You've got little bits of it in the Village of Williamsville, for example. But that's more linear. Ours is a 100-acre square that we can fit a lot of different uses. And it's going to be a pretty special environment where you can live, work, play, be entertained. We're excited about it. As soon as the off-site infrastructure can be completed, we're looking to go forward with what we can do. We've already received a lot of interest from people who would love to live there. Q: Who are those people and what are they saying? A: We're getting interest from all different ages and individuals. Some are asking about senior housing because they like the the ability to not have to drive everywhere. Others are empty nesters who are living in a single family home and would love to downsize and not leave the town of Clarence or Amherst and have a condominium or a town home or even an apartment and have the ability to walk to so many different destinations. And then there's young professionals who are living downtown now in apartments, and they like the idea of this urban-type experience that's walkable, but it's in the suburbs. So, this type of project is about creating an environment that appeals to a lot of different individuals, and it works with pretty much whatever period of life you're in. Q: It's so hard to get people off their phones and out of their houses, especially since Covid-19. How do you expect to draw people out? A: We tweaked our concept plan because of Covid. We're planning on offering more things like more outdoor space, so most of the restaurants will have large outdoor patios. And you won't be overlooking a parking lot. You'll be overlooking more green space or an active sidewalk that people are strolling on. There will be more parks and green space, in general. We've found at other town centers around the country that projects like this create a draw for both residents and tourists, with maybe not the large big box retailers, but smaller boutique type retailers that are maybe a little more unique and that you may not find their products online. At the end of the day, most people like to be around other people. Q: How about events? A: We're creating somewhat of an events park where we'll be able to host outdoor movies and concerts. We'll be able to close off the streets and perhaps host some festivals on occasion. Farmers markets, outdoor yoga, for example, and other activities like that. There will be a whole separate events-type team that you have at projects like this that are organizing events throughout the year, not just in the warm weather months, but even in the colder months, too. Give people an excuse, a good reason to leave their homes, and they will do it. Q: What about people who say this sort of thing won't work in our climate? A: Well, I would suggest those individuals visit places like Lake Tahoe or Colorado. The ski towns thrive in the wintertime, and they offer very similar walkable, mixed-use environments to the ones that we're creating. And they exist all over Europe. People are even dining outdoors. as well. That was a concern of ours, but after we toured around the country and visited these different places, we're convinced they can succeed just as well in our environment as anywhere else. Q: Are there other things people seem to misunderstand about the project? A: It's also a huge win for the residents in terms of the taxes that are generated from dense, mixed-use environments like this. When you're squeezing a couple million square feet of buildings into a relatively small parcel of land, you're going to generate significant real estate taxes for the county and the town. That's in addition to sales, taxes from stores and restaurants and whatever else is there. Q: What kind of commercial tenant makes an ideal one? A: The ideal tenant is one who generates a lot of interest, draws people and can offer people an excuse to linger. The longer people want to hang out there, the more they'll enjoy themselves and the better chances that they'll want to return. They may not necessarily spend much money on any given visit, but over time they will, and it'll help sustain the entire town center. It's not just about one retailer, or one particular use. It's the synergy of all the uses. It's a high tide raises all ships type of scenario. Movie set armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, right, speaks to a sheriffs deputy on the set of the movie Rust (Santa Fe County Sheriffs Office/AP) The trial of Rust chief weapons handler Hannah Gutierrez over the death of the film's cinematographer starts on Wednesday, in a case likely to shape actor Alec Baldwin's defense of his role in Hollywood's first on-set shooting fatality in nearly 30 years. Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed. HSBC Group Wednesday reported a 25% rise in earnings from its activities in India, reaching $1.5 billion for the fiscal year ending December 2023, media reports said. According to HSBC's 2023 annual report, the bank, which aligns its fiscal year with the calendar year, had generated a profit of $1.2 billion in 2022. HSBC, the largest bank by assets in Europe, revealed that its profit before tax in India increased by 19% to $1.51 billion in 2023, compared to $1.27 billion in the previous year. This growth occurred behind Hong Kong and the UK, which are the bank's two largest business regions, according to results released on Wednesday, Economic Times reported. The bank highlighted India, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia among the burgeoning markets contributing to its growth. This was once more apparent as all of them noted a substantial rise in profits in 2023, with mainland China (excluding associates), India, and Singapore each adding over $1 billion to the group's profits, as stated. As stated in the annual report, HSBC intends to further expand its wholesale franchise by leveraging corporate supply chains in India. Further, the bank disclosed its initiative to tap into the wealth pools of the Indian diaspora through the introduction of onshore Global Private Banking services. With a workforce of 42,000 in its Indian operations, HSBC expressed optimism that the economies of South and Southeast Asia will maintain strong economic momentum throughout 2024. "India and Vietnam are currently among the fastest growing economies in the world, benefiting from competitive labour costs, supportive policies, and changing supply chains," it said. Chinese companies are increasingly turning their attention to these and other markets, reflecting China's ongoing economic shift towards high-quality growth and greater emphasis on domestic consumption, it noted. Photo courtesy: wikipedia.org Bengaluru: Glas Trust Company LLC, a United States-based non-bank loan agency, filed a plea for insolvency against the troubled-ed tech firm Byju's at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Bengaluru, a media report said. Glas Trust acts as the administrative and collateral agent for the lenders involved. These lenders, representing foreign entities, collectively provided over 85 percent of Byjus $1.2-billion term loan, reported Moneycontrol. Foreign lenders had approached the NCLT in Bengaluru to initiate legal action against Byju's, Moneycontrol reported. This is the fourth insolvency petition against Byju's within a period of less than six months. Although the plea was submitted on January 22, it was formally registered with the NCLT on February 21. Byju's responded, stating that any actions taken by the lenders before the NCLT are premature and lacking in merit, according to the Moneycontrol report. The company stressed that the validity of the lenders' actions, including the acceleration of the term loan, is being contested through various legal channels, including proceedings in the New York Supreme Court. Byju's also said that the timing of the lenders' actions coincides with the commencement of a rights issue by the company. Earlier today, Byju's founder and CEO Byju Raveendran said in a shareholder letter that the company's rights issue, aimed at raising $200 million with a valuation cut of 99 percent, has been completely subscribed, the report said. BCCI, Teleperformance Business Services, and Surfer Technologies have each filed insolvency pleas against Byju's. The NCLT has issued notices for all these petitions. BCCI's claim, amounting to over Rs 150 crore, was first heard in November 2023, while Surfer and Teleperformance's claims, of Rs 4 crore and Rs 2.3 crore respectively, were heard in February 2024. BCCI's case is scheduled for a hearing on February 28, while Surfer and Teleperformance's cases are expected to be heard in March 2024. Photo courtesy: Unsplash New Delhi: More than one-third of India's oil product exports to the coalition countries led by the G7 were sourced from Russian crude, according to a European think-tank, media reports said. This underscores how despite the coalition's evasion of purchasing Russian crude and implementation of price limits, a lenient policy on refined products allowed third countries to use Russian oil and legally export products to coalition nations. While there are no restrictions or sanctions on buying or using Russian crude oil and exporting fuels like diesel derived from it, the coalition of Group of Seven (G7) nations, the European Union, and Australia referred to as the "price cap coalition countries," initially enforced a crude price cap of USD 60 per barrel beginning December 5, 2022. Later, they extended these price caps to products such as diesel to ensure market stability while limiting Moscow's revenue. The measures were aimed at penalizing Russia for its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine by cutting off its oil revenues and preventing a potential price surge that could result if Russian oil supply to global markets was disrupted. Finland-based Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) noted in its report that since the implementation of the price-cap regime in December 2022, the sanctioning countries bought one-third of India's exports of oil products derived from Russian crude (EUR 6.16 billion or USD 6.65 billion) The majority of these exports, particularly from the Jamnagar refinery in Gujarat operated by Reliance Industries Ltd, accounted for a significant portion. Specifically, Jamnagar alone exported oil products worth EUR 5.2 billion derived from Russian crude to the price cap coalition. According to CREA, India imported Russian crude valued at EUR 3.04 billion to produce these products for sanctioned countries. Notably, the USA imported oil products worth EUR 1.2 billion from India, believed to have been refined from Russian crude. India imported Russian crude totalling EUR 733 million specifically to produce these products for the USA. The coalition of price cap countries imported an additional EUR 469 million worth of oil products from the Vadinar refinery, referring to the facility operated by Nayara Energy in Gujarat. From the implementation of the crude oil price cap until the end of December 2023, the USA imported EUR 59 million worth of oil products from Vadinar. CREA's estimate suggests that 42 percent of the refinery's feedstock is sourced from Russian crude. Since February 2022, several Western nations have avoided purchasing Russian oil directly. However, they continue to import petroleum products from countries such as China, India, and Turkey, which have become major buyers of Russian crude oil. In 2023, there was a major 44 percent year-on-year increase in the volume of oil products imported by sanctioning countries, which were produced from Russian crude. This surge contributed to the Kremlin's earnings of EUR 1.7 billion in tax revenues from December 2022 to December 2023, generated from the imports of oil products made from Russian crude by the price cap coalition (PCC) countries. Since the introduction of the price cap until December 2023, the USA imported oil products worth EUR 1.6 billion derived from Russian crude. Around EUR 807 million worth of Russian crude was used to produce these products specifically for the USA. Further, the price cap coalition countries collectively imported EUR 2.4 billion worth of diesel derived from Russian crude. Photo courtesy: Wikipedia New Delhi/IBNS: Eminent Indian jurist and senior Supreme Court advocate Fali Nariman died on Wednesday at the age of 95. Fali Nariman died at his Delhi home on Wednesday morning. An internationally recognised jurist, Nariman was awarded with Padma Bhushan in 1991 and Padma Vibhushan in 2007. He was honoured with the 19th Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2018. Being a nominated member in Rajya Sabha, Nariman served the upper house of Parliament from 1999 to 2005. Nariman, who has remained the President of the Bar Association from 1991 to 2010, has argued in several high profile cases. He argued in favour of Union Carbide in the infamous Bhopal Gas Tragedy case but later said it was a mistake on his part. In 1975, Nariman resigned as the Additional Solicitor General of India protesting against then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's declaration of Emergency. Mourning his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. "I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace." Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 21, 2024 Senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi posted on X, "End of an era#falinariman passes away, a living legend who wl forever be in hearts &minds of those in law &public life. "Above all his diverse achievements, he stuck to his principles unwaveringly &called a spade a spade, a quality shared by his brilliant son #Rohinton." Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from X video New Delhi/IBNS: Tear gas shells have been used to disperse the farmers from Punjab and Haryana who resumed their protests against the Narendra Modi government on Minimum Support Price (MSP) on Wednesday, media reports said. The farmers, who had called off the protests briefly, resumed it, snubbing the government's offer to buy a few crops at the old MSP. Just a couple of days ago, the government held a meeting with the protesting farmers' unions and came out with a plan involving the purchase of pulses, maize and cotton crops by government agencies at MSP. The meeting was attended by protesting farmers, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda and Minister of State for Home Affairs. Post meeting, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, said, "We had a detailed discussion for the welfare of farmers with a new thought. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-ji always cares for the farmers." "After a detailed meeting with a positive approach and innovative thinking, we have arrived at a plan that would benefit farmers as well as the economy of the country," he added. Much like in 2020, farmers from Punjab, Haryana marched towards Delhi, dubbed as 'Delhi Chalo' A prolonged and violent protests by the farmers in 2020 against the Centre's farm laws had prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to withdraw them. In a similar approach, the farmers from Punjab and Haryana started marching towards Delhi this year. Photo courtesy: X/@DrSJaishankar New Delhi/UNI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in New Delhi on Wednesday and expressed his appreciation for Mitsotakis dedication to improving ties between India and Greece. In a post on X, S Jaishankar wrote, Delighted to call on Prime Minister @kmitsotakis of Greece today. Valued his commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. Look forward to the strengthening of our strategic partnership." The Prime Minister of Greece is on a two-day state visit to India. He also accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Later in the day, both leaders will hold bilateral discussions, and Prime Minister Modi will also host a lunch banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. Making a statement after the ceremonial welcome, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said, "It is a privilege to be in India on an official state visit, reciprocating the visit of the Prime Minister to Greece a few months ago." "For Greece, the strategic partnership between our two countries is of particular importance, and we will have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics, including political consultations and strategic partnership, while also fostering our economic lives between our two economies," he added. Kyriakos Mitsotakis added, "I'm really looking forward to the discussions we will have as the Prime Minister." This is the first bilateral head-of-state level visit from Greece to India in 15 years. The last prime ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008. On August 25, 2023 Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Athens. In a press release, the Ministry of External Affairs stated, Prime Minister Mitsotakiss visit is expected to further strengthen and deepen the strategic partnership between India and Greece. India-Greece relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership during PM Modis visit to Greece in August 2023. Mitsotakis will also visit Mumbai before returning to Athens. Photo Courtesy: File India and Chinese officials held Corps Commander Level Meeting on Monday (February 19, 2024) when the two sides agreed to maintain communication in future, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday (February 21, 2024). The meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border. "The discussions built on the previous rounds, seeking complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas," read a statement issued by the MEA. During the meeting, India and China shared their perspectives on this in the talks held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. "The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms," the statement said. The two sides also committed to maintain peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas in the interim. The Indian and Chinese troops were engaged in a confrontation in the recent past at certain points in eastern Ladakh. Clarence startup Top Seedz is getting more financial help as it finishes building out its new manufacturing facility downtown. Top Seedz gets $365K toward move, building retrofit The company, which won the 43North competition in 2021, is planning to expand into a 34,379-square-foot leased facility at 101 Oak St. The artisan cracker and baked seed maker, founded in 2017 by native New Zealander Rebecca Brady, will receive $750,000 from the Western New York Impact Investment Fund. Top Seedz is preparing for an early spring move into a 35,000-square-foot headquarters at 101 Oak St. as part of a $4.5 million project to upgrade a facility that once housed Heritage Centers of Western New York. It will give the company the space it needs to start automating production and increase its annual output sixfold. Top Seedz, which is currently in a 5,500-square-foot warehouse in Cheektowaga, will soon be able to make 6 million boxes of crackers per year. The new facility will have 42 employees, many of whom are refugees, representing 15 countries. Top Seedz is a woman-led company with a diverse workforce and an ambitious plan for the future, WNY Impact Investment Fund CEO Tom Quinn said. Theyve got a track record of growth and deep brand loyalty. Were coming in to catalyze that momentum as Top Seedz embarks on the next phase of its mission. Top Seedz has not conducted a round of raising funds yet. In addition to the $1 million from 43North, the company is getting a tax credit of up to $315,000 from Empire State Development and a $750,000 low-interest loan for equipment purchases and working capital from an affiliate of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency. It is also getting a $750,000 working capital loan from M&T Bank Corp. The company, which also won a $50,000 Ignite Buffalo grant in 2018, also is working with suppliers and equipment providers on financing arrangements. ECIDA rejects tax breaks for Top Seedz and Iskalo on downtown project The ECIDA board voted 8-3 in favor of the tax breaks, but the resolution required 10 affirmative votes in order to pass, so it ultimately failed. Brady and her husband, Will, who helps run Top Seedz, have had conversations with interested investors, but, until now, it did not pull the trigger on additional investment. The time was right for the impact funds investment because Top Seedz is expanding its national retail footprint and hopes to eventually enter the Canadian market. The companys organic, vegan, gluten-free crackers account for the majority of its sales, but plans are in place to invest into an expanded product mix. Top Seedz sells its crackers in stores such as Wegmans, Whole Foods and other retailers, along with a growing e-commerce business. This is a moment of transformation for our company as we expand through the U.S. and significantly increase our production capacity, Rebecca Brady said. The deal is the first of 2024 for the WNY Impact Investment Fund after making four investments last year. It considers investments equally for their social impact and commercial promise and has now made 20 investments in 12 companies, totaling $10.4 million. Buffalo-based entrepreneurs are capable of building market-leading companies that have a positive impact on the community, Quinn said. Our Fund stands for that belief, and investments like Top Seedz are proving its truth. Photo Courtesy: PIB Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held bilateral talks with his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis in New Delhi and said 'India and Greece are heading towards doubling the bilateral trade by 2030'. Speaking after the talks at Hyderabad House, Modi said, "The visit of the Greek PM to India after 16 years is a historic occasion. It's a matter of happiness that we are heading towards doubling the bilateral trade by 2030." "The increasing cooperation in defence and security reflects our deep mutual trust" the PM said. He further added that in this sector, with the formation of the Working Group, we can increase cooperation in common challenges like Defence, Cybersecurity, Counter-terrorism and Maritime Security". Modi also called upon his counterpart to fight against terrorism unitedly. "India and Greece have the same concerns and priorities. We held a detailed discussion in further strengthening our cooperation." he said. Touching upon the issue of Indo- Pacific, the Prime Minister informed that India welcomed Greece's active participation and positive role in the Indo-Pacific. "It is a matter of happiness that Greece has decided to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative. We agree that all disputes and tensions should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy" he added. Early the Ministry of External Affairs, called the meeting "productive" which will give further impetus to Strategic Partnership between two countries. In Social Media Post on X , the Ministry said, "The two leaders reviewed bilateral ties & discussed deepening partnerships in areas of defence & security, maritime, trade & investment, cultural ties among others". This is the first bilateral head-of-state level visit from Greece to India after 15 years. The last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008. Earlier, the Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is on a two-day state visit to India, was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. (With UNI inputs) Photo Courtesy: Unsplash A 14-year-old girl shot herself with an illicit firearm and committed suicide in the Tilhar area of Shahjahanpur district in Uttar Pradesh, a senior police officer said here on Wednesday. Superintendent of Police (SP) Ashok Kumar Meena said that Vinati Bharati, a student of class 10, shot her on Tuesday night in Khiriya Udiat village. "The mother of the deceased revealed that when she rushed to the spot, Vinati was already dead," he said. He said that a suicide note was recovered from the spot. "The body has been sent for postmortem examination, and the matter is being investigated by the police," he said. (With UNI inputs) In image farmers during clash with Police at Haryana border/ courtesy: Videograb New Delhi/IBNS: A farmer died at Haryana's Khanauri border, where protesting farmers clashed with the police on Wednesday evening following which the protesters suspended their march to Delhi for two days. Farmers' group AIKS (All-India Kisan Sabha) alleged that the farmer died during the police action. However, the farmers will continue the sit-in protest. A doctor at a Patiala hospital, where he was taken, said he had sustained a bullet wound. A post-mortem is awaited. "Three patients have come to us from Khanauri. One of them was dead on arrival, the other two are stable and seem to have sustained bullet injuries on head and thigh respectively, but it can't be confirmed," said Dr Rekhi, the senior medical officer of Patiala's Rajendra Hospital. "The person who was dead on arrival had a bullet injury on his head, but more details such as size of the bullet can only be confirmed after post-mortem," he said. "Shubh Karan Singh, who was seriously injured in the police action, succumbed to his injuries at Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. His death is a direct result of police action," read a statement from the AIKS. Shubh Karan Singh, 23, was a resident of Bathinda. He was the son of Charanjit Singh, residents of village Valo in Bathinda district, said farmer leader Kaka Singh Kotra. Earlier in the day, tear gas shells were used to disperse the farmers from Punjab and Haryana who resumed their protests against the Narendra Modi government on Minimum Support Price (MSP), media reports said. The farmers, who had called off the protests briefly, resumed it, snubbing the government's offer to buy a few crops at the old MSP. Just a couple of days ago, the government held a meeting with the protesting farmers' unions and came out with a plan involving the purchase of pulses, maize and cotton crops by government agencies at MSP. The meeting was attended by protesting farmers, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda and Minister of State for Home Affairs. Photo courtesy: Instagram/Vikrant Massey Mumbai/IBNS: Actor Vikrant Massey, who is basking in the success of Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 12th Fail, has come out with an apology over an old tweet on Lord Ram and Sita. Deleting the post, Vikrant said he never intended to "disrespect" the Hindu community. Vikrant posted on X, "In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release the distasteful nature of it. "The same could have been said without adding the cartoon which was published in a newspaper. And Id with utmost humility like to apologise to each and everyone who has been hurt As you all by now know, that I hold all faiths, beliefs and religions with the highest possible regard. We all grow up with time and reflect upon our mistakes. This was mine. Regards." In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release the distasteful nature of it. The same could Vikrant Massey (@VikrantMassey) February 20, 2024 Vikrant came under fire after Mumbai-based advocate Ashutosh Dubey posted a screenshot of his conversation with the actor on the issue. In 2018, Vikrant had tweeted which featured an editorial cartoon where Sita was seen commenting on Ram Bhakts. 12th Fail, which stars Vikrant Massey in the lead, is centred on a real life story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, who battled poverty to assume the post. Vikrant, who has received critical acclaim for his acting, essayed IPS officer Sharma's role. The film, which was released to theatres on October 27, 2023, was premiered on Disney Plus Hotstar on December 29, 2023. Photo Courtesy: PR Team Kolkata/IBNS: Filmmaker Anurag Khashyap discussed his recent movie 'Kennedy' here at the first edition of the French Film Festival Kolkata last Saturday. "Kennedy came out of me when I was in a very dark space, and the cinematic impact of reading a lot of Jean Patrick Manchette and French graphic novels at that time could be seen in my film Kennedy," said Khasyap. Kennedy, which stars Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone in the lead, premiered in a number of international film festivals including Cannes Film Festival, Sydney Film Festival. It was also screened at the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) here in December last year. Talking about the French New Wave (a French art film movement in the 1950's), Khashyap disclosed how the work of French filmmaker Jean-Pierre Melville impacted him and his movie 'Kennedy.' Expressing his views on Bengali cinema, he feels that Bengali cinema has deteriorated since its golden age. "It started with the remaking of bad mainstream Telugu influences. It is happening across the world, but in this case the fall was greater because it fell from a great height, i.e., from the era of grandmasters in all artforms, from films, literature, poetry, painting, and theatre," said the 'Kennedy' director. "I feel it is important to ensure that more films from literature are adapted," said Kashyap, talking about the commerce dictating the industry. "Mrinal Da (director Mirnal Sen) wouldn't have survived today's era of filmmaking. Arthouse films are struggling across the world; now it is the comedies that work." Alliance Francaise du Bengale and Nandan, West Bengal Film Centre, in association with the Consulate General of France in Kolkata, held the very first edition of the French Film Festival Kolkata. (Reporting by Ayush Gupta) Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the United States votes against the draft resolution in the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. Photo Courtesy: UN Photo/Manuel Elias The UN Security Council met again in an emergency session on Gaza in New York on Tuesday, where the United States vetoed a resolution put forward on behalf of Arab States by Algeria demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties. The latest Council meeting on the Middle East crisis spiralling outwards from the war in Gaza has ended, with another US veto and an abstention on the part of the UK, while Algeria's resolution gained support from 13 out of the 15 members around the iconic horseshoe table. It was the third US veto of a UN Security Council resolution related to the Gaza ceasefire. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said her delegation is working on a hostage deal. Although gaps remain, the key elements are on the table, so if an arrangement were reached, it would involve a sustainable peace. "Sometimes hard diplomacy takes more time than any of us might like, she said. Any action this Council takes should help and not hinder these sensitive ongoing negotiations. Ceasefire would be a death sentence: Israel Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the Council has repeatedly met on the same flawed theme: the demand for a ceasefire. This silver bullet would only achieve the survival of Hamas, he said, and be a death sentence for Israelis and Gazans. A ceasefire is the epitome of a kick the can down the road, approach which will provide nothing but immunity for baby killers and rapists, allowing Hamas to regroup and re-arm, he said. Palestine's reaction Riyad H. Mansour, Ambassador and Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine, said the Algerian-led draft resolution was brought to the Council precisely because Israel persists with its onslaught despite near unanimous calls by the international community for a ceasefire. He recalled the ICJ provisional measures ordering Israel to cease all acts of genocide, incitement of genocide and ensure humanitarian access to the Palestinian people, who are facing death, starvation and repeated forced displacement every day across Gaza. It has been nearly three weeks since I last addressed the Council following the courts order, appealing for action to be taken to ensure the implementation of the provisional measures and ensure a ceasefire that would protect the Palestinian people and avert further ravaging of their lives by the Israeli onslaught, he said. But, our appeals have, regrettably, been to no avail, he added, noting that since that day, the toll has risen from 26,000 Palestinians killed to almost 30,000 with more than 69,000 injured. This means that in just the past 20 days alone, Israel has killed nearly 4,000 more Palestinian children, women and men, in just 20 days. This is a deplorable consequence of inaction, he stated. Life a living hell Mansour said that Palestine together with an unprecedented number of countries approached the ICJ to confront the Israeli impunity that has made life a living hell for Palestinian people. Together, they appealed for "an immediate and complete end to this illegal colonial occupation and apartheid regime, the root cause of all the ills our people are suffering, including this genocidal war", he said, noting that the ICJ acted swiftly both on the case brought forward by South Africa and the request for an advisory opinion by the General Assembly. He questioned when the Security Council would finally undertake its solemn duties and act to demand the ceasefire that the vast majority of the world wants to see. The veto of this draft resolution is not only regrettable but also absolutely reckless and dangerous, again shielding Israel even after it commits the most shocking crimes while exposing millions of innocent Palestinian people to more untold horrors, he said. UK calls for immediate suspension of fighting UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward called for an immediate suspension in fighting which can lead to a permanent sustainable ceasefire, saying Palestinian civilians are facing a devastating humanitarian crisis.She said there needed to be a new government for Gaza and the West Bank alongside the removal of Hamass capacity to launch attacks against Israel. Hamas should no longer be in charge in Gaza and a credible political horizon should be opened to pave the way to a lasting two-State solution. Simply calling for a ceasefire, as this resolution does, will not make it happen. She said it could endanger hostage negotiations and could actually make a permanent ceasefire less likely. The way to stop the fighting is through the release of all hostages. She said the UK would continue to work for a humanitarian response at scale. China: Veto sends wrong message Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun said the use of the veto by the US sends the wrong message, pushing Gaza further into crisis at a time when Palestinians are struggling on the brink of death. It is totally untenable of the US to argue that the draft jeopardizes ongoing talks. Meanwhile, the violence is destabilising the entire region, and the Council must act quickly to stop the carnage, he said. The Council must uphold international order and demand a ceasefire, which is its legal responsibility. The Council must not stop its work because of the veto, he said, calling on the international community to give Palestinians a chance to live and to provide justice. Israel and Rafah assault A member of Israels war cabinet earlier said the country might launch its ground offensive against Rafah if Hamas members did not release the Israeli hostages by the beginning of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, which is less than three weeks away. The world must know, and Hamas leaders must know if by Ramadan our hostages are not home, the fighting will continue everywhere, including the Rafah area, Benny Gantz, a retired Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief of staff, told a conference of American Jewish leaders in Jerusalem on Sunday as quoted by The Guardian. Gazans hanging by a thread, warns WFP The UN emergency food relief agency (WFP) warned that Gaza is hanging by a thread, calling for urgent access to allow it to reach the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians on the verge of famine. In a statement, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said it has reluctantly had to pause aid deliveries to north Gaza until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions. The decision to pause deliveries to the north of the Gaza Strip has not been taken lightly, as we know it means the situation there will deteriorate further and more people risk dying of hunger, the agency said. It added that it is deeply committed to urgently reaching desperate people across the war-torn enclave but the safety and security to deliver critical food aid and for the people receiving it must be ensured. In December, the UN and humanitarian partners had warned of the risk of famine in northern Gaza by May unless conditions there improved decisively. The situation is particularly dire for children, pregnant women and new mothers, with one in six children acutely malnourished. The British government issues guidelines to prohibit the use of mobile phones in schools. Photo Courtesy: Unsplash Mobile phones are set to be prohibited in schools across England as part of the British governments plan to minimise disruption and improve behaviour in classrooms. New mobile phones in schools guidance issued on Monday (19 February 2024) backs headteachers in prohibiting the use of mobile phones throughout the school day, including at break times. Many schools around the country are already prohibiting mobile phone use with great results. This guidance will ensure there is a consistent approach across all schools. By the age of 12, 97% of children have their own mobile phone, according to Ofcom. Using mobile phones in schools can lead to online bullying, distraction and classroom disruption which, in turn, can lead to lost learning time. Last year, Unesco called for smartphones to be banned from schools as evidence showed it was linked to reduced educational performance and that excessive screen time had a negative impact on childrens wellbeing. Schools will be supported to prohibit mobile phone use with examples of different approaches including banning phones from the school premises, handing in phones on arrival at school, and keeping phones securely locked away at school. The guidance will respond to concerns from parents about mobile phones, with the latest data from ParentKinds National Parent Survey, revealing that 44% of parents are concerned about the amount of time their children spend on electronic devices, rising to 50% of parents of secondary school children. Driving high expectations of behaviour is a priority for the government, building on our 10 million investment in behaviour hubs which will support up to 700 schools over 3 years, as well as existing behaviour in schools guidance. "We are making long-term decisions to ensure all pupils have world class education. This guidance builds on that work which has delivered 89% of schools rated good or outstanding by Ofsted, up from just 68% in 2010," the government said in a statement. "Our plan is working with school standards rising across the board. England has catapulted up the international rankings for academic attainment through our multimillion-pound maths and English hubs programme and phonics screening check. We are now one of the top performing countries in the Western world for maths and reading and the government will continue to build on this progress by delivering crucial reforms including by creating the Advanced British Standard," it said. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said: "Schools are places for children to learn and mobile phones are, at a minimum, an unwanted distraction in the classroom." "We are giving our hard-working teachers the tools to take action to help improve behaviour and to allow them to do what they do best teach," Keegan said. Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: "Growing up in todays digital world provides immense opportunities but this should not come at the expense of our childrens wellbeing or education. That is why we have passed world leading legislation to make the UK the safest place in the world for young people to be online." "Todays announcement will support parents and educators further, helping give the next generation the best chance to realise their potential," Michelle Donelan said. Government data on mobile use by students The latest government data finds around a third (29%) of secondary school pupils reported mobile phones being used when they were not supposed to in most, or all, lessons. Schools have seen success in prohibiting mobile phones through tactics such as introducing lockers with charging points for students to ensure they dont come into classrooms. One school referenced in the guidance introduced this change and saw a positive impact overnight and within one year the whole culture of the school had changed. Without access to mobile phones, pupils have the headspace and calm environment to learn, and staff have the quiet and focus to teach in. The move will bring England in line with steps taken by other countries who have restricted mobile phone use including France, Italy and Portugal. Prime Minister's reaction Prime Minister Rishi Sunak posted on X: "Almost one-third of secondary school pupils said that their lessons were disrupted by phones." Almost one third of secondary school pupils said that their lessons were disrupted by phones. Todays guidance will help schools put an end to this. https://t.co/ozPsKqFlKH Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 19, 2024 "Todays guidance will help schools put an end to this," he said. British government sanctions heads of Arctic penal colony where Vladimir Putin's critic Alexei Navalny died. Photo Courtesy: Yulia Navalnaya Instagram page The British government on Wednesday froze the assets of six Russian prison bosses who were in charge of the Arctic penal colony where opposition leader and critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Alexei Navalny, died. The government also imposed a travel ban on them. "A travel ban means that the designated person must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom, providing the individual is an excluded person under section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971," read a statement issued by the British government. "The sanctioned individuals include Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who oversaw the brutal prison camp where Navalny was kept in solitary confinement for up to 2 weeks at a time. Navalnys condition had deteriorated in his 3 years in prison. Navalny suffered from being denied medical treatment, as well as having to walk in 32C weather while being held in the prison," the statement said. The UK is the first country to impose sanctions in response to the death of Navalny. The government asked Russian authorities to immediately release Navalny's body to family members. The six people against whom the British government imposed sanctions: Colonel Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin: Head of IK-3 Arctic Penal Colony Polar Wolf Lieutenant Colonel Sergey Nikolaevich Korzhov: Deputy Head Lieutenant Colonel Vasily Alexandrovich Vydrin: Deputy Head Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir Ivanovich Pilipchik: Deputy Head Lieutenant Colonel Aleksandr Vladimirovich Golyakov: Deputy Head Colonel Aleksandr Valerievich Obraztsov: Deputy Head David Cameron says no-one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system UK Foreign Secretary Cameron said: "Thats why were today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months. Those responsible for Navalnys brutal treatment should be under no illusion - we will hold them accountable." What do we know about Navalny's death? Alexei Navalny, 47, died in an Arctic prison on Friday (February 16, 2024). He was serving a 19-year term. Alexei Navalny felt unwell in prison after a walk and lost consciousness. He received all necessary resuscitation measures, but they did not yield positive results, the Federal Ptnitentiary Service stated as quoted by Russia's Sputnik news agency. President Vladimir Putin did not comment on the issue since his death was announced. Several world leaders, including Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and US President Joe Biden, have slammed Putin over the politician's death. Kremlin's reaction to comments made by western leaders on Navalny's death Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the comments made by Western leaders against Navalny's death as 'boorish'. "In conditions where there is no information, we consider it absolutely inadmissible to make such, let's say, frankly boorish statements," the spokesman was quoted as saying by TASS. "This is inappropriate for statesmen from whose mouths we have heard such statements. And these statements, of course, cannot harm the head of our state, but they absolutely do not benefit those who make such statements," he said. Photo Courtesy: Unsplash Ending all speculations and debates, two major political parties in Pakistan have reached a formal agreement to form the next government in the country, following an election earlier this month which was mired in controversy. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) reached a power-sharing formula after days of negotiations. PPP and PML-N have achieved the required number and [now] we are in a position to form the government in Centre, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari was quoted as saying by ARY News while addressing a joint press conference at Zardari House in Islamabad. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said former PM Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) backed candidates and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) could not touch the simple majority needed to form the government in the country which is battling an acute financial crisis. Bhutto said PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif will be the next PM of the nation while the political outfit will back his father Asif Ali Zardari for the presidents slot. Asif Zardari would be our joint candidate for president, he was quoted as saying by ARY News. Shehbaz Sharif said the journey for the next government would not be easy. PTI terms coalition as mandate thieves Imran Khan's PTI called the new coalition 'mandate thieves'. "Unprecedented electoral fraud by the illegitimate regime, which stole PTIs two-thirds majority mandate. A documentary showing what happened during and after the elections," PTI posted on X. "Its crystal clear that PDM = Mandate Thieves," the party posted. Imran Khan was ousted from power in 2022. Khan was behind bars on the day of the polls and his members fought as independent candidates. In the shock results, candidates backed by PTI emerged as the single largest bloc. However, with 92 seats bagged, PTI could not touch the majority of 169 needed to form the government. It paved the way for PML-N, which is led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, to discuss with PPP the possibility of forming the next government. PML-N emerged second with 79 seats while PPP bagged 54. Photo Courtesy: PIB Bangladesh's far-right political party Bangladesh Islami Front has negated 'India Out' social media campaign which has been circulating on social media in recent times with the potential to damage the relationship between the two neighbouring nations. Hitting out at the online campaign, SUM Abdus Samad, the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Islami Front, on Tuesday told ANI it was driven by hard-line elements who spread hate and misinformation. The campaign mostly sharpened following PM SHeikh Hasina's victory in the recently held general polls. She returned to power for a record fourth term. There is misinformation there since the beginning that India brought a lot of stuff from Bangladesh in 1971 and also did brutal acts. This kind of misinformation is there. So it is a must for India to show that we are not against Bangladesh, but we are friends, said Samad. Bangladesh Islami Front had put up 37 candidates in the recently held polls. What is India Out Campign? The India Out campaign started across social media platforms with the demand to ban Indian goods in Bangladesh in recent times, media reports said. Bloggers running this campaign have been using three hashtags: #Indiaout #BoycottIndia and #BoycottIndianproducts, reported ANI. In its report, Digital Forensics and Research and Analytics Centre said, "The trend of boycotts on social media does not appear natural. A closer examination of this trend reveals that the group that began this campaign has always been engaged in anti-India activities in Bangladesh." "Several users among them, are either indirectly associated with the political parties of Bangladesh (mainly BNP), or claim to be their supporters," DFRAC said. An East Side couple appeared in a Buffalo courtroom for the first time Wednesday in support of a lawsuit that would force New York State to undertake a more comprehensive review of the environmental impact of the planned $1 billion Kensington Expressway tunnel-and-cap project. Humboldt Parkway residents Terrence Robinson and Marcia Ladiana, who live along the expressway, fear the project will do more harm than good to the health of residents who live along the three-quarter-mile stretch where construction on the project could start later this year. The couple filed the lawsuit in December against the state Department of Transportation, which is leading the project. Lawyers for the agency filed a motion Feb. 7 to dismiss the case, and Robinson and Ladiana filed written arguments in rebuttal. Justice Daniel J. Furlong scheduled another hearing for March 7 after Susan Taylor, chief of the Environmental Protection Bureau in the State Attorney Generals Office, asked for more time to answer those arguments in writing. Taylor appeared by videoconference and was unavailable to comment afterward. The lawsuit asks the court to force the DOT to conduct a more thorough review of health impacts under the State Environmental Quality Review Act, which the plaintiffs claim the agency failed to do in conducting its environmental assessment. They also say the project violates the state constitution and provisions of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, enacted in 2019, noting the state must prioritize the health and safety of environmental justice communities in advancing greenhouse gas reduction goals. We are seeking for the New York State Department of Transportation to comply with the existing and well-established law in following this process, Robinson, who is also legal counsel for the couple, said outside the courtroom after the short proceeding. We just want them to follow the law in what they do and the way they do it. The states plan calls for a tunnel that stretches from Dodge Street, near Martin Luther King Jr. Park, to Sidney Street, with a cover that has trees and other landscape features to mimic a portion of the original Humboldt Parkway designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Crossings to reconnect some of the neighborhoods Route 33 divided are part of the plan. Robinson and Ladiana are members of the East Side Parkways Coalition, which wants to restore Humboldt Parkway between Delaware and Martin Luther King Jr. parks by filling in the highway. The group also wants the state to conduct a health study and address the chronic conditions that have long plagued residents on both sides of the Kensington. Last Friday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the Federal Highway Administration had found a finding of no significant impact after reviewing the two-year-long environmental assessment led by the DOT, the last regulatory hurdle for the project to move forward. The project can go full steam ahead, she declared, expressing hope that construction can begin by the end of 2024. The lawsuit would force the DOT to go back to the drawing board in conducting the environmental review. Its absolutely obvious that the Department of Transportation has engineered their report to support the alternative they wanted, Robinson said. They absolutely restricted other parties that should have been part of the inquiry to participate. They excluded everything that is local and regional everything, essentially that is not the Department of Transportation and their own narrow interests. Robinson said there are important environmental issues at stake, calling the State Environmental Quality Review Act an interlocking mechanism designed to look at historic preservation, health and other aspects of the environment. The review should have been done in a comprehensive way and they did not do that, Robinson said. They narrowed it to just exclude things, and on top of it provide misinformation. They should not be able to eliminate the environmental protection for every citizen in the State of New York. Photo Courtesy: Pixabay Pakistani security forces killed a terrorist during an exchange of fire in Khyber Pakhtunkhwas Dera Ismail (DI) Khan district on Tuesday, media reports said. The firing reportedly took place as a part of an intelligence-based operation (IBO). According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces conducted the IBO in Dera Ismail Khan District based on the reported presence of terrorists, reported ARY News. During the conduct of operation, intense fire exchange took place between own troops and terrorists as a result of which terrorist Muhammad Sohail was killed, the ISPR was quoted as saying by ARY News. It added that he remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities, including target killing of innocent civilians. According to reports, weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered from them. Photo Courtesy: Sadaf Ameer Baloch X page Sadaf Ameer Baloch, the daughter of Ameer Baaksh Baloch, who went missing in 2014, is now urging authorities for the safe recovery of her father. She claims that he was abducted by the Pakistani security forces from the Kulanch area of Gwadar district on August 4, 2014, reported The Balochistan Post. She said she had not received any information about his whereabouts for the past 10 years. She also says that she joined a sit-in protest in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, for her fathers recovery, but returned home disappointed, the news portal reported. She has announced that she will organize a social media campaign on Twitter, along with the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), on February 21, 2024, for her fathers safe release. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said it tracked 10 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels around Taiwan between 6 a.m. on Tuesday and 6 a.m. on Wednesday, media reports said. Of the 10 Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, four crossed the Taiwan Strait median line, according to the MND. Meanwhile, one Chinese drone entered the southwest corner of Taiwans air defence identification zone (ADIZ), while one PLA helicopter was tracked in the southeast sector of the ADIZ, reported Taiwan News. Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and deployed air defence missile systems in response to monitor the PLA activity. So far this month, Taiwan has tracked Chinese military aircraft 163 times and naval ships 96 times, the news portal reported. What is the basis of Chinas claim over Taiwan? The basis of Chinas claim over Taiwan dates back to 1945 when Japan lost its control over the island in 1945,post-World War Two. The 1949 Chinese civil war lead to communists taking control and Chiang Kai-shek the one who lost fled to Taiwan. He ruled it for many decades. This is where Chinas claim to Taiwan emanates. The very fact that Chiang Kai-shek came to Taiwan and was not indigenous to the place is Taiwans argument against the claim. The question is why is Taiwan important to China? A lot of things actually, which of course are related to Taiwan but not necessarily direct to Taiwan. It's more about (China's) relationship changing with United States or we should say Western Countries, mainly United States and China. Taiwan then happens to become key player and main actor in this dynamics, said Alice. 100 miles from the coast of China, Taiwan is an island, that is located in the first island chain, this positioning makes it crucial to the US foreign policy. US-Sino relations hinge on, One China Policy, it acknowledges that, there is only one Chinese Government." The US recognises its formal ties with China. With Taiwan the US shares independent strong unofficial relations. By Isaac White. Under the vast sky of progress and amidst the turning tides of legal recognition, a pivotal moment unfolded within the halls of Canadas Supreme Court on February 9, 2024. This moment was not just a mere judicial decision; it was... By Isaac White. In a comprehensive effort to tackle the disproportionate rates of violence and disappearance among Indigenous populations in Wyoming, the initiation of a groundbreaking FBI data collection project marks a pivotal moment in the stat... By Isaac White In an unprecedented move towards reconciliation and healing, the Alaskan branch of the Quakers, a religious group historically involved in the forced assimilation of Native youth across the United States, has made a significant gest... On their Instagram page, Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli revealed the news of their second child's birth. The actress and former Indian captain Virat Kohli welcomed their second child on February 15. Virushka shared a post with the words, "With abundant happiness and hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika's little brother into this world. We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time. We request you to kindly respect our privacy. Love and gratitude, Virat and Anushka." Celebrities Wish Anushka Sharma And Virat Kohli As They Welcome Their Baby Boy Sachin Tendulkar wrote on X, Congratulations to Virat and Anushka on the arrival of Akaay, a precious addition to your beautiful family! Just like his name lights up the room, may he fill your world with endless joy and laughter. Here's to the adventures and memories you'll cherish forever. Welcome to the world, little champ!. Alia Bhatt wrote, How beautiful! Congratulations Ranveer SIngh dropped hearts and evil eye emojis. Vikrant Massey wrote, Congratulations to you and your beautiful family!!! Neena Gupta wrote, God bless Instagram Apart from celebs, fans also flooded social media with their messages! On social media, people of all stripesfrom Anushka Sharma fans to Virat Kohli admirershave been posting incredible wishes. It's also fascinating to note how several memes have been created around AB De Villiers' apology for allegedly giving false information about their second child, which turned out to be accurate. Instagram Anushka Sharma And Virat Kohlis Second Child Akaay! You may also be curious about the meaning behind this unusual name, Akaay. Well, it's a distinctive and significant name that honors the couple's appreciation of traditional Indian names and their cultural heritage. It can also mean that a person has transcended their body or physical form. It is also considered to be a gender-neutral name and means "shining moon" or "moon's radiance" in Turkish. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. 1. Anushka Sharma-Virat Kohli Blessed With A Baby Boy, Couple Names Their Little One 'Akaay' On her Instagram profile, Anushka Sharma revealed the news of the birth of her second child. The actor and former Indian captain Virat Kohli welcomed a baby boy on February 15th! They shared a post that read, "With abundant happiness and hearts full of love, we are pleased to inform everyone that we welcomed our baby boy Akaay & Vamika's little brother into this world. We seek your blessings and good wishes in this beautiful time. We request you to kindly respect our privacy. Love and gratitude, Virat and Anushka." X 2. Vikrant Massey Deletes Controversial Ram-Sita Tweet, Apologises For Hurting Hindu Sentiments His previous tweet gained popularity on social media and attracted trolls. Massey has since apologized and removed the contentious Ram-Sita post. Massey took to Twitter to write, "In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release the distasteful nature of it. The same could have been said without adding the cartoon which was published in a newspaper. And Id with utmost humility like to apologise to each and everyone who has been hurt As you all by now know, that I hold all faiths, beliefs and religions with the highest possible regard. We all grow up with time and reflect upon our mistakes. This was mine. Regards." X 3. Dadasaheb Phalke Awards 2024: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara & Sandeep Reddy Vanga Win Top Honours The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024, one of the biggest award ceremonies, was held in Mumbai on February 20. To celebrate the amazing performances, a number of Bollywood celebrities attended the award ceremony, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Rani Mukerji, and Shahid Kapoor. Best Actor in Negative Role- Bobby Deol (Animal) Best Director- Sandeep Reddy Vanga (Animal) Best Actress- Nayanthara (Jawan) Best Actor (Critics)- Vicky Kaushal (Sam Bahadur) Best Actor- Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) X 4. Rituraj Singh's Last Rites: Hiten Tejwani, Nakuul Mehta And Others Pay Final Respects Actor Rituraj Singh, who acted in Anupamaa, passed away on February 20, 2024, at the age of 59, from heart attack. On February 21, the last ceremonies for him were conducted in Mumbai. Several acquaintances, colleagues, and well-wishers from the TV and film sectors were spotted at his home as they came to pay their last respects. X 5. Ameen Sayani, Legendary Radio Host Who Rejected Amitabh Bachchan, Passes Away At The Age Of 91 X The news of Ameen Sayani's death was confirmed by Rajil Sayani, was said that Ameen breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a hospital. "He was at the hospital and passed away last night, we will be issuing a statement on the last rites very soon. The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldnt save him and he was declared dead," Rajit was quoted as saying. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. It's the end of an era! Legendary radio host Ameen Sayani, best known for radio programme Binaca Geet Mala in which his unique style of addressing the audience as "Behno aur bhaiyo" became popular, has left for his heavenly abode on Feb 20th night. He was 91. Legendary Radio Host Ameen Sayani Passes Away At 91 X The news of Ameen Sayani's death was confirmed by Rajil Sayani, was said that Ameen breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a hospital. "He was at the hospital and passed away last night, we will be issuing a statement on the last rites very soon. The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldnt save him and he was declared dead," Rajit was quoted as saying. He was being treated for heart failure. The last rites of Sayani will likely be performed on Thursday. In his career, he reportedly made 54,000 radio programmes and 19,000 jingles. He also played small roles in films like Bhoot Bungla, Teen Devian, Boxer, and Qatl. Sayani, whose introduction Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon on Radio Ceylon still evokes strong nostalgia, was born in Mumbai in a multilingual family on December 21, 1932. Did you know Ameen Sayani rejected Amitabh Bachchan? X Not many people know that Amitabh Bachchan tried his luck as a radio host before becoming an actor. Given his deep baritone of voice, which is what he is popular for now, it's strange that he was rejected. The man who rejected him was none other than Ameen Sayani. Taking about that, he had once revealed, "It was somewhere in late 60s when I used to do 20 shows a week, spending most of the day locked up in the sound studio as I was involved in the every process of radio programming. One day, a young man named Amitabh Bachchan walked in without appointment for a voice audition." He added, "I had not a second to spare for this thin man. He waited and left and came back a few more times. But I could not see him and kept telling him through my receptionist to take an appointment and come." Ameen was bowled over with Bachchan's performance in Anand. "Today, though I regret denying him an audition, I realise that what happened was for the best for both of us. I would have been on the streets and he would have got so much work on radio that Indian cinema would have lost its biggest star," he added. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Actor Rituraj Singh, who starred in Anupamaa, died of cardiac arrest on February 20, 2024, at the age of 59. The final rites for him were held in Mumbai on February 21. As they arrived to pay their final respects, a number of friends, coworkers, and well-wishers from the TV and film industries were seen at his home. Hiten Tejwani, wife Gauri Pradhan, Nakuul Mehta, and others at Rituraj Singh's Final Rites Check out the video here: Riturajs Family Shared A Note For Him They wrote on a poster, "Doting father, loving husband, stellar human and an absolute rockstar." The last rites for Rituraj Singh were held at Oshiwara Hindu Cemetery. X Rupali Gangulys Note For Rituraj Singh She wrote on Instagram Dear Rituraj Sir, It was an honour to share screen space with you like an enthusiastic student getting to learn her favorite subject from a teacher who has taught many others , I was overjoyed You said you had seen my work and yet I wanted to prove to you that I could earn my place in the frame standing next to one of the legends of television whom I had watched growing up your all knowing smile after our scenes and your words of encouragement was like a report card to me I was thrilled by your kind words but there was so much more to learn Sir .These pictures I had taken of you when you wore the chef cap I was tardy in sending it to you never thought these would be put up here as a remembrance. Your life stories ,quirky sense of humour, immense knowledge about world cinema and your talent shall always be remembered Thank you for being Yashpal Sir to my Anupamaa ..Thank you for the words that left an indelible mark. Rituraj Singhs Popular Projects Regarding his professional life, Rituraj K Singh most recently starred as Yashpal in the Rupali Ganguly television series "Anupamaa." Aside from that, the actor has a distinguished career in both the television and cinema industries. 'Banegi Apni Baat' is only one of the well-known television shows Singh has contributed to. Alongside R Madhavan, Surekha Sikri, and late actor Irrfan, he co-starred in it. In addition, Rituraj appeared in other TV soap operas, including "Diya Aur Baati Hum," "Trideviyaan," and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. He also starred with Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in the movie "Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania." For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Just before 4 a.m. on a recent Monday, Lindsey Cruz and her husband, Carmelo, were startled awake by the roar of the exhaust from their Lamborghini SUV parked outside. I said, Oh my gosh, honey, someones trying to steal our vehicle, the Grand Island resident recalled, and we came flying out of the house. The would-be car thief couldnt figure out how to back the vehicle out of the driveway but the attempted theft has, Lindsey Cruz said, shattered their sense of safety. In response, she started an online call to action that received hundreds of signatures of support. Shes seeking more police, community volunteers and even private security to patrol roads at night. I started doing a little bit of research and, honestly, what I found is its out of control, Cruz said in an interview. However, law enforcement officials say theres a simple and in Buffalos suburbs, recurring explanation behind most of the stolen vehicles on the island: Sixty percent of recent cases involved vehicles left unlocked with the keys or a key fob inside, according to the Erie County Sheriffs Office. Law enforcement cannot, in itself, stop all these crimes of opportunity, said Sheriff John Garcia, who lives on the island. We have to work together. We have to make sure that we educate the public as to what the trend is. Stolen vehicle reports on the island remain low. There have been six such calls so far in 2024, up from three over the same period last year. Officials acknowledge the traumatizing effects of any crime but say islanders need to take basic precautions. The bridges dont make us a gated community, said Eric Fiebelkorn, president of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce. Traumatic thefts Cruz admits her husband accidentally left their SUV parked in their driveway instead of in their garage unlocked and with the key inside. She said security camera footage from Feb. 5 shows two people exiting a vehicle parked at the end of her driveway and entering their SUV. They were in the SUV briefly before, apparently, giving up on putting the SUV in reverse and leaving in the car in which they originally came, Cruz said. I havent slept very well in two weeks waiting for them to come back because they took the keys to the car, said Cruz, who is having the locks changed on the SUV. Another island resident, Grant Farmer, said thieves took his wifes 2014 Ford Edge on Jan. 7. He and his wife, Rachael, didnt realize the SUV was gone until later that morning when they went outside in the snow to play with their children. He said the couple very well may have left the doors unlocked and, he said, the keys were left inside. We were embarrassed, he said of describing the theft to a sheriffs deputy. Instead of waiting for word the vehicle had been found abandoned somewhere, Farmer said he went driving around looking for it. Unbelievably, two days later, while he and his wife searched the area around the Buffalo Science Museum, Farmer spied what looked like his wifes SUV. It was in a residential parking area just barely visible from the road behind a church. I grabbed the car keys and I click it and the thing lights up, said Farmer, whose dash camera recorded the scene. And Im like, Thats your car. Unlocked cars at risk The Sheriffs Office has drilled down into recent stolen vehicle reports on the island. This years rate, if it keeps up, would far surpass that of 2023 and 2022. Of the six reported so far in January and February, three were unlocked with keys inside when they were taken. Of the 16 vehicles reported stolen in 2023, nine were left this way. And in 2022, it was 12 out of 18. This amounts to 60% of recent stolen vehicle reports. But when discounting what Garcia deemed nontraditional cases such as a stolen personal watercraft or test-drive vehicle that wasnt returned the share rises to 77%. Garcia said he doesnt want to discount the sense of violation any crime can create. Vehicles are among the most valuable items people own and are typically parked just feet from a home while their owners sleep inside. The stats show that homicides have gone down and shootings have gone down. But property crimes are going through the roof. And thats because people are not being held accountable, said Garcia, citing bail reform among other factors. Problem highlighted Cruz, Farmer and other native Grand Islanders say they rarely worried about locking doors when they were growing up. That feeling of safety is gone, they said. Its gotten to the point where were definitely more concerned and, in some ways, fearful of whats going on, said Farmer, who has installed smart locks at his home since the SUV theft. Following the attempted theft of her SUV, Cruz dived into social media, where news about crime is shared quickly and widely. She said she couldnt believe how brazenly thieves brag about their escapades and share tips on how to steal cars. Cruz started an online petition and crafted an open letter to Grand Island Supervisor Peter Marston in which she said its common knowledge among the criminal element that the island lacks a robust police force and residents are lax about their own security. Cruz said she wants to see islanders volunteer to drive around at night, arguing increased traffic will scare off would-be car thieves. She also discussed dividing the town into zones in which residents could share contact information and news on public safety matters or the possibility of hiring private security to patrol on the island. I cant leave my community high and dry. And nobody wants to stand up for it. And, frankly, I dont have the time, said Cruz, who with her husband runs the 95 Nutrition health and wellness chain. But Ive been forced to make time to look out for my community. Police presence Garcia said he appreciates public engagement but he wants to avoid any effort that could lead to vigilantism. He said the Sheriffs Office has increased road patrols on the island. But islanders, he and others said, need to adjust to the reality that residents in other communities have accepted: Take time to lock doors and keep keys and other valuables out of parked vehicles. Grand Island has its own part-time police force; the Sheriffs Office, which has primary policing responsibilities; State Police, which patrol the I-190; State Park Police; and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office. You cant drive around Grand Island without seeing one or two cops in your travel from one end of the island to the other end of the island, said Jim Sharpe, a former Town Board member. Island residents for years have debated the pros and cons of establishing a full-time police force. The move would certainly add to the towns budget and likely require a tax increase to pay for the extra cost. I think community watch groups talking to each other, it can certainly help, Deputy Supervisor Tom Digati said. As far as spending on outside security or a full-time police force, for these types of crimes, it seems like it would be a pretty significant overreaction. Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey finds himself in hot water once again as an old tweet from 2018 resurfaces, triggering outrage among netizens. The controversial post, which included an illustration of Hindu goddess Sita, led to accusations of religious insensitivity. Despite an apology issued by Massey, recent revelations of a conversation with a Mumbai-based advocate have added fuel to the fire. Vikrant Massey's Chat With Mumbai-Based Advocate In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release the distasteful nature of it. The same could Vikrant Massey (@VikrantMassey) February 20, 2024 Mumbai-based advocate Ashutosh Dubey, who heads the social media legal and advisory department of the Maharashtra BJP, reached out to Vikrant Massey regarding the old tweet. In the conversation, Dubey expressed his disappointment, urging Massey to delete the tweet and issue a public apology. Conversation with Vikrant: Clear and loud! pic.twitter.com/u6DRYjT1CG ADV. ASHUTOSH J. DUBEY (@AdvAshutoshBJP) February 20, 2024 Screenshots of the actor's response reveal a discussion where Massey clarifies the context of the tweet and acknowledges the potential for misunderstanding. Vikrant Massey's Midnight Apology And Reflection On Past Mistake In an attempt to quell the growing controversy, Vikrant Massey took to his social media handle late at night to issue a public apology. The actor acknowledged the distasteful nature of his 2018 tweet and expressed regret for unintentionally hurting religious sentiments. Massey emphasised that it was never his intention to disrespect any community and apologised to those offended by his remarks. #VikrantMassey's father is Christian, mother Sikh and brother Muslim hence he shits only on Hindus pic.twitter.com/aipyvWf4zR Alok (@Alokyadav_45) February 21, 2024 Actor Reflects On Growth And Learning From Mistakes As part of his apology statement, Vikrant Massey highlighted the importance of personal growth and reflection. He admitted that the tweet could have conveyed the message without the accompanying cartoon and pledged respect for all faiths, beliefs, and religions. Massey concluded by acknowledging the need for individuals to evolve over time and learn from their past mistakes. Vikrant Massey's Latest Interview Vikrant Massey With His Family/Twitter This comes as, in an exclusive interview with Unfiltered by Samdish, versatile actor Vikrant Massey recently provided insights into the rich tapestry of his family. He illuminates the harmonious coexistence of diverse religious backgrounds within his household. The actor openly talked about his elder brother Moeen's decision to embrace Islam at the age of 17, highlighting the supportive stance adopted by their family. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Holi, a cherished Hindu festival, is celebrated with pomp and enthusiasm across India, particularly in the states of West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, where it is also known as 'Dol Jatra' or 'Basanta Utsav.' This vibrant festival, often referred to as the 'Festival of Colors,' spans two days and holds deep significance in Hindu culture. Holi symbolises the triumph of good over evil and marks the arrival of spring, bidding farewell to the chilly winter months. It is also associated with the commencement of the spring harvest season, a time of abundance and prosperity. With the celebration of the festival of Holi just around the corner, educational institutions host Holi Speech and Essay writing competitions to encourage students' growth in knowledge and boost their self-assurance in effective self-expression. So, if you are looking for long and short Holi essay ideas in English, then read on. Holi 2024: Tips for Holi Essays Holi is a vibrant and colorful festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world. It marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. It is a time when people come together to celebrate, play with colors, and enjoy each other's company. Here are some tips for writing an essay on Holi: Introduction: Start with a brief introduction to Holi, its significance, and why it is celebrated. History and Origin: Provide some historical background on Holi, including its origins and how it has evolved over time. Rituals and Traditions: Discuss the various rituals and traditions associated with Holi, such as the lighting of bonfires, playing with colors, and the consumption of sweets. Significance: Explain the significance of Holi in Indian culture, including its religious and cultural importance. Celebrations: Describe how Holi is celebrated in different parts of India and around the world, including the various customs and traditions that are observed. Colors and Symbolism: Discuss the significance of colors in Holi and how they are used to symbolize different aspects of life. Food and Sweets: Talk about the special foods and sweets that are prepared and enjoyed during Holi, such as gujiya, thandai, and puran poli. Social and Cultural Impact: Analyze the social and cultural impact of Holi, including how it brings people together and promotes harmony and unity. Environmental Concerns: Discuss the environmental concerns associated with Holi, such as the use of synthetic colors and water wastage, and how these issues can be addressed. By following these tips, you can write a comprehensive and informative essay on Holi that captures the essence of this colorful and joyous festival. 500 words Essay On Holi Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor across India and other parts of the world. This vibrant festival is also known as the "Festival of Love", the "Festival of Spring" and the "Festival of colour". It marks the arrival of spring and the end of winter, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The festival is celebrated by people of all ages, and it is a time for people to come together, forget their differences, and enjoy the joyous occasion. Holi is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, which usually falls in March. In 2024, the festival of colour, Holi will be celebrated on Monday, March 25. The festival is celebrated with great energy, and it is a time for people to indulge in fun and frolic. The festival begins with a bonfire known as Holika Dahan, which symbolises the burning of the demoness Holika. On the day of Holi, people gather in open spaces and smear each other with colors, dance, sing, and enjoy delicious food and drinks. The festival of Holi has a deep cultural significance and is associated with various mythological stories. One of the most popular stories is the story of Prahlada and Holika. According to the legend, Prahlada was a devotee of Lord Vishnu, but his father, Hiranyakashipu, was a demon king who did not approve of his son's devotion. Hiranyakashipu tried to kill Prahlada in various ways, but Lord Vishnu always protected him. Finally, Hiranyakashipu's sister, Holika, who was immune to fire, tried to kill Prahlada by sitting with him in a fire. However, due to Prahlada's devotion, Holika was burnt to ashes, and Prahlada emerged unharmed. This story symbolises the victory of good over evil and is commemorated during the festival of Holi. Another popular story associated with Holi is the story of Lord Krishna and Radha. According to the legend, Lord Krishna, who had dark skin, was jealous of Radha's fair complexion. In a playful mood, he applied colors on Radha's face, and since then, the tradition of applying colors during Holi has been followed. Holi is also associated with the legend of Kamadeva, the god of love. According to the legend, Kamadeva was burnt to ashes by Lord Shiva's third eye, but his wife, Rati, pleaded with Lord Shiva to bring him back to life. Lord Shiva agreed, and Kamadeva was brought back to life on the day of Holi. Since then, Holi has been celebrated as a festival of love and romance. Holi is a time for people to come together and celebrate the joyous occasion. It is a time for people to forget their differences and come together in a spirit of unity and brotherhood. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, and people indulge in fun and frolic. The festival of Holi is a time for people to spread love, happiness, and joy. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate the victory of good over evil. Short Essay On Holi Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in March by Hindu followers. It symbolises happiness, brotherhood, and the victory of good over evil. The festival is about playing with colours, enjoying delectable dishes, and celebrating with friends and family. The story of Prahlad and Holika is central to Holi, representing the triumph of good over evil. People celebrate Holi in North India with fervour, conducting the ritual of 'Holika Dahan' a day before the festival. On the day of Holi, people wake up early, offer prayers, play with colours, and enjoy special delicacies like 'gujiya' and 'bhaang'. Holi spreads love, harmony, and happiness, uniting people and removing negativity from life. Essay On Holi In 10 lines in english Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most significant festivals in India, celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm each year in March by Hindu followers. People eagerly await Holi to play with colours and relish delectable dishes, celebrating happiness with friends and family. The festival signifies brotherhood, as people forget their troubles and enmities, immersing themselves in the festive spirit. Holi is called the festival of colours because people play with colours, applying them to each other's faces, symbolising the essence of the festival. According to Hindu mythology, Holi celebrates the victory of good over evil, with the story of Prahlad and Holika representing this triumph. The day before Holi, a ritual called 'Holika Dahan' is observed, where people burn heaps of wood, symbolising the burning of evil powers. On the day of Holi, people wake up early, offer prayers to God, wear white clothes, and play with colours, splashing water and rubbing colours on each other's faces. Children and adults alike enjoy the festivities, running around with water guns and immersing themselves in the vibrant colours of Holi. In the evening, people visit friends and family, dancing, and enjoying the special drink called 'bhaang' and the traditional sweet 'gujiya'. Holi spreads love, brotherhood, and happiness, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and uniting people in a colourful celebration. International Womens Day 2024: Every year, on March 8, we celebrate International Womens Day. It's a day to honor and appreciate the strength, power, and resilience of women. Women play a vital role in various fields, such as education, homemaking, economics, engineering, and innovation. They contribute to making the world a better place with their determination and beliefs. Despite facing challenges from society, women are breaking barriers and becoming a powerful force. This International Women's Day, we celebrate the achievements of women in social, economic, cultural, and political areas. We also call for collective action to achieve gender equality. As women around the world come together, we see a range of activities to celebrate women's achievements and advocate for equality. In 1908, women were discussing how they were treated unfairly and unequally in society and they wanted things to change. In New York City, 15,000 women marched to demand better working conditions and the right to vote. The first Women's Day in the United States was in 1909. In 1910, there was a big meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, where a woman named Clara Zetkin suggested having an International Women's Day. International Womens Day | Photo: Freepik In 1911, Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland celebrated it on March 19. Russia joined in 1913 and 1914, celebrating on February 23. Later, March 8 became the day to celebrate International Women's Day all over the world. The United Nations started celebrating it in 1975. UN Women has declared this year's theme as "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress." In a world grappling with various crises, including geopolitical conflicts, rising poverty, and the exacerbating effects of climate change, empowering women is crucial. By investing in women, we can ignite change and hasten the shift towards a healthier, safer, and more equitable world for everyone. On the other hand, the 2024 campaign theme for International Women's Day, as mentioned on the website, is "Inspire Inclusion." To inspire inclusion means to celebrate diversity and empowerment on International Women's Day 2024 and beyond. This year's campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality. It calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected. Inspire Inclusion encourages everyone to recognise the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities. On March 8, International Women's Day, women from India and abroad will be given free entry to all centrally protected monuments. This includes 3,691 monuments under ASI's protection. The Government of India's Ministry of Culture launched a special program in 2019. This program allowed women to visit ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) monuments for free on Women's Day. Women's Day 2024: Free Entry Of Women At These Places Red Fort The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is a historic fort located in the city of Delhi, India. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. The fort is made of red sandstone and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Red For ticket price for Indians is Rs 35 and for foreigners, it is Rs 500. However, on International Women's Day, women will not charged an entry fee. Taj Mahal The Taj Mahal is an iconic white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz. Completed in 1653, it is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and a symbol of love and devotion. The ticket price for visiting the Taj Mahal is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 1100 for foreigners but on the special occasion of International Women's Day 2024, entry for all women will be free. Qutab Minar Qutab Minar, located in Delhi, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the tallest brick minarets in the world. Built-in the early 13th century, it stands 73 meters (240 feet) tall and is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture, featuring intricate carvings and verses from the Quran. In Qutub Minar, the entry fee for Indians is 35 to 40 rupees per person. Additionally, foreigners are charged 500 rupees. However, on International Women's Day, entry to Qutub Minar is free for all women. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. Mahashivratri 2024: Mahashivratri, an auspicious Hindu festival, is an annual celebration dedicated to Lord Shiva, considered the supreme deity in Hinduism. This special day is very important and is celebrated by people who follow Shiva all over the world. Maha Shivratri, also called the big night of Lord Shiva, is a special day when people fast, meditate on Shiva, think about themselves, work on making society better, and stay up all night at Shiva temples. According to the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratri is celebrated every year on the fourteenth day of the dark (waning) half of the lunar month of Phalguna or Magha. In the Gregorian calendar, this year, Mahashivratri is on Friday, March 8, 2024. Why do we celebrate Mahashivratri? Mahashivratri | Photo: Freepik According to Hindu beliefs, Mahasivaratri is celebrated for various reasons. One of them is the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, which is said to have taken place on this day. This union is celebrated annually as a symbol of love and harmony. Another reason for celebrating Mahasivaratri is to honor the night when Shiva and Shakti, representing masculine and feminine energies, come together. This balance is essential for the world to function smoothly. There is also a legend that says Mahasivaratri is observed to commemorate the day when Shiva drank the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean. This act saved the world from darkness and despair. The poison turned his throat blue, leading to his nickname, Neelkanth. Of the 12 Shivratris celebrated each year, Maha Shivratri is considered the most significant. It is a solemn festival in Hindu culture, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and ignorance. Various legends describe the significance of Maha Shivratri. One legend says that on this night, Shiva performs his cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. Another legend suggests that offering prayers to Shiva on this night can help one let go of their sins and start on the path of righteousness, ultimately leading to 'moksha' or liberation. Celebrations and Rituals: On Mahashivaratri, people fast to make Lord Shiva happy. This festival is very special for women. Married women pray for their husbands, and unmarried women pray for a husband like Lord Shiva, who is known for being a good husband. During Mahashivaratri, people do many rituals in temples. They pray and do ceremonies for Lord Shiva. They give him things like milk, honey, flowers, and Bilva Patra leaves. People also fast on Mahashivaratri. They don't eat or drink anything all day. Some people stay awake all night and pray. This is called the "Night of Awakening." Others go to temples to get blessings from Lord Shiva. People use this night to pray to Adidev Mahadev by chanting and listening to Mantras like Mahamrityunjay Mantra and Shiva Tandav Stotram. Mahashivaratri is a big festival at many Shiva temples, like the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. People sing songs, chant mantras, and ring temple bells. Mahashivaratri is called "The Great Night of Shiva." It's a time for people to find inner peace and enlightenment. They believe Lord Shiva is very kind on this night and will grant their wishes if they pray with all their heart. Besides being a religious festival, Mahashivaratri is also celebrated with cultural events. People dance, sing, and do other cultural things, making it a big celebration for everyone. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. World Thinking Day 2024: World Thinking Day, which is observed on February 22 every year, celebrates the friendship, sisterhood, and empowerment of girls and young women all over the world. The day also raises funds for the development of 10 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across the globe. Let's explore further details about the history, significance, and theme of World Thinking Day 2024. World Thinking Day 2024: Theme World Thinking Day today holds significance as a celebration of the achievements of girls and young women. It also serves as a platform to address pressing global challenges and advocate for gender equality. The theme for World Thinking Day 2024 is "Our World, Our Thriving Future," underscoring the importance of fostering a sustainable and inclusive world where all girls have the opportunity to flourish. Why We Celebrate World Thinking Day On February 22 The history of World Thinking Day dates back to 1926 when Girl Guide and Girl Scout delegates from around the globe met in the USA for the 4th World Conference. They decided to establish a special day when Guides and Scouts worldwide could think of each other and express their gratitude for the international movement. They chose February 22nd as the date because it was the birthday of both Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement, and his wife, Olave Baden-Powell, who served as World Chief Guide. World Thinking Day: Evolution In 1932, at the 7th World Conference in Poland, the concept of fundraising was introduced. A Belgian delegate suggested that on Thinking Day, each Guide and Scout contribute "A Penny for Your Thoughts" towards the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) funds. This tradition continues today, with the collected funds used to support various WAGGGS activities and programs around the world. In 1999, at the 30th World Conference in Ireland, the day's name was officially changed from "Thinking Day" to "World Thinking Day" to better emphasise its international focus. World Thinking Day is a significant event for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts worldwide. It provides them with a platform to connect, learn, and take action, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and just world. World Thinking Day 2024 FAQs: When is it celebrated? World Thinking Day is always celebrated on February 22nd. This year, it falls on a Thursday. What is the theme for 2024? The theme for World Thinking Day 2024 is "Our World, Our Thriving Future." This theme focuses on the critical global issues of environmental sustainability, gender equality, peace, and poverty, and how girls and young women can be leaders in creating a better future. What are some ways to participate? There are many ways to participate in World Thinking Day, even if you are not a Girl Guide or Girl Scout. Here are a few ideas: Learn about the theme: Explore the resources available on the WAGGGS website and other organisation websites to understand the issues highlighted this year. Organise an event: Gather friends, family, or colleagues to learn about the theme, raise funds, or participate in a service project. Donate to the World Thinking Day Fund: This fund supports Girl Guides and Girl Scouts globally, giving them opportunities to develop their skills and leadership potential. Share your thoughts on social media: Use the hashtag #WorldThinkingDay to share your commitment to creating a better future for all girls and young women. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. The landscape of today's workplace is continually evolving, shaped by technological advancements, societal changes, and economic trends. Gen Z and Millenials of the day are shaping workplace trends on social media, and understanding and adapting to these workplace trends is crucial for both employers and employees to thrive in the dynamic professional environment of present. Most popular workplace trends A study by Datamax Texas has focused on social media - analysing TikTok hashtag counts alongside Google search volumes - to find out the most popular workplace trends. Here are key workplace trends that are relevant at this time: Job Shift Shock Job shift takes the top spot by highlighting the shift from the initial enthusiasm of starting a new job to the disillusionment caused by unforeseen responsibilities. This phenomenon mainly arises when the expectations set for the workplace experience do not align with the actual reality, creating additional challenges in adapting to the new professional environment. Unsplash Quiet Quitting Quite Quitting, defined by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as the art of not taking work too seriously, has over 612.5K searches on Google, with the highest interest in Canada and Singapore. The rising cost of living and employees' discontent with their salaries or working conditions firmly establish this trend's position on the list. Representative Image/Unsplash Chaotic Working or malicious compliance Most popular in the United States, chaotic working or malicious complaince has 30.7K Google searches. Malicious compliance, a manifestation of passive-aggressive behavior, involves rigidly adhering to the directives of a superior, even when aware that such compliance may lead to unintended or adverse consequences. This behavior is often observed in organisations characterized by top-down management structures that lack morale, effective leadership, or mutual trust. This trend has secured its place on the list as it is a less direct way of employee rebellion against their work conditions and involves employees being overly generous with customers or clients. Return to Office Unsplash Return to Office with 300.8K Google searches began to trend after several big companies started requiring mandatory return to office. The concept encounters resistance among employees, given that surveys indicate approximately 97% of the workforce is seeking some degree of workplace flexibility. Rage Applying Rage Applying takes the fifth spot with 44.3K Google searches, most popular in Singapore and Canada. Rage applying occurs when individuals apply to numerous jobs, often impulsively, in response to escalating frustration. uphint Typically, this behavior stems from employees experiencing burnout, boredom, or discontentment in their current job. Moonlighting Moonlighting takes the sixth position with a substantial 540.6K Google searches and is particularly trending in Singapore. Moonlighting pertains to engaging in a secondary job to supplement one's main source of employment. Frequently, individuals pursue these additional jobs discreetly, without informing their primary employer. Bare Minimum Mondays Bare Minimum Mondays secures the seventh spot with 49.5K Google searches and is particularly trending in Canada and Australia. This trend entails employees completing the minimal amount of work on Mondays to prevent burnout for the remainder of the week. Career Cushioning Career Cushioning ranks eighth, with 1.9K Google searches, finding its primary audience in Germany. Career Cushioning is characterised as the endeavor to establish job security, achieved either by securing more stable positions elsewhere or by identifying how one's current skills, talents, professional values, and interests can be applied to potential career paths in the absence of immediate opportunities. Pexels Boomerang Employee Boomerang Employee captures the ninth place with 480 Google searches, a trend particularly noted in the United States. This pertains to the phenomenon of employees rejoining a previous employer. Quiet Cutting Quiet Cutting completes the list with 14.8K Google searches, indicating a trend in the United States focused on quietly reducing work hours or tasks. For more information on exams, results and careers, please visit Indiatimes Education. Garlic prices in India have skyrocketed, reaching Rs 253 for a mere 500g today and even touching Rs 400 to Rs 500, sparking concerns among both buyers and farmers. As consumers worry about rising costs for a common ingredient in Indian cuisine, farmers face a different issue: a surge in theft. To save their garlic crops from theft, farmers are coming up with an innovative solution - installing CCTV cameras! CCTVs guarding garlic crops Rahul Deshmukh invested Rs 25 lakh to cultivate garlic on 13 acres and reaped a significant profit of almost Rs 1 crore from selling his garlic in the market. He has now resorted to installing CCTV cameras to safeguard his crop. IT Detailing his security strategy, Rahul Deshmukh stated that employing solar energy and installing mobile CCTV cameras were crucial measures he followed to safeguard his crops. "I strategically positioned three cameras to monitor the four acres of garlic fields," he said, speaking to ANI. Pawan Chaudhary from Badnoor, who invested Rs 4 lakh in a 4-acre garlic crop, reaped a profit of Rs 6 lakh and installed three CCTV cameras for security. He said, "To keep an eye on my field, I set up three CCTV cameras. Two of them belong to me, while one is rented. I had to take this step because garlic was being stolen from my fields." Untimely rain reason behind garlic price rise garlic Gajanand Deshmukh, overseeing field camera installations, addresses growing concerns amid escalating prices. In response to a worried farmer's request, Deshmukh's team installs CCTV cameras. Normally, garlic sells at Rs 80 per kg each year but this season prices have jumped to over Rs 300 per kg. The primary cause for the price hike is reduced production, attributed to unseasonal rain in several states during October and November. For more on news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. In a bid to stop the protesting farmers from entering the national capital, security agencies have reportedly deployed Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) at Shambhu Border. While many have criticised this move by the police, LRAD deployment is still being debated. Let us understand what this arguably problematic device is all about. What is a Long Range Acoustic Device It is a type of directional acoustic communication device and sonic weapon that is often used for long-range communication and crowd control. LRAD is designed to broadcast highly directional sound over relatively long distances. BCCL The LRAD system typically consists of a dish or horn-shaped device that focuses and amplifies sound waves. It can transmit a variety of sounds, including voice messages, warning tones, and sirens. The focused nature of the sound allows it to be heard clearly at a distance while minimising the impact on surrounding areas. LRADs have been used for various purposes, including: Communication: LRADs are used by law enforcement, military, and maritime agencies for long-range communication in situations where traditional communication methods may be ineffective. They can be used to broadcast instructions or warnings over large distances. Crowd Control: LRADs have been deployed in crowd control situations to transmit deterrent tones or verbal commands. The intense and directional sound can be used to disperse crowds or discourage certain behaviors. Security: LRADs are employed in maritime security to warn approaching vessels and deter potential threats. They can also be used to communicate with ships at a distance. Wildlife Control: LRADs have been used to deter wildlife from areas where their presence may pose a threat or risk. It's important to note that while LRADs have legitimate uses for communication and security, there have been concerns about their potential misuse or the risk of hearing damage if the devices are not used responsibly. In some cases, the use of LRADs in crowd control has sparked controversy and raised human rights and safety concerns. Where was LRAD used first? The Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) was first used by the U.S. military. It was developed by the American technology company LRAD Corporation (formerly American Technology Corporation) in the early 2000s. The device was initially designed for maritime security and long-range communication applications. The U.S. military deployed LRADs for various purposes, including providing a means of communication in areas with high background noise and for issuing warnings or instructions over long distances. While its initial development and deployment were by the U.S. military, LRADs have since been used by various military and law enforcement agencies around the world. Additionally, LRADs have found applications in commercial and maritime settings for communication and security purposes. Who Takes a call on use of LRAD The decision to use a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) is typically made by authorized personnel within military, law enforcement, or security agencies. The specific individuals or entities responsible for making the call on the use of LRADs may vary depending on the country, jurisdiction, and the nature of the deployment. Here are some key points: Farmer protest | Photo: Bccl Military: In a military context, decisions regarding the use of LRADs may be made by military commanders or officers in charge of a particular operation. The decision could be based on the tactical requirements of the mission, the need for communication over long distances, or the use of LRADs as a non-lethal means of crowd control. Law Enforcement: For law enforcement agencies, decisions on the use of LRADs in crowd control or communication may be made by senior officers or those responsible for managing public order situations. Local policies, laws, and regulations may also influence the decision-making process. Security Agencies: In other security contexts, such as maritime security or critical infrastructure protection, decisions on deploying LRADs may be made by security officials responsible for protecting specific assets or areas. Government Authorities: In some cases, the use of LRADs may require authorisation from higher government authorities, especially if there are legal or policy considerations involved. Governments may set guidelines for the use of LRADs in specific situations. How hazardous can LRAD be? Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs) are generally designed to be non-lethal and to provide a means of long-range communication or deterrence. However, there are concerns about potential hazards associated with the use of LRADs, particularly when deployed in certain ways or at high intensity. Here are some considerations regarding the potential hazards of LRADs: Farmer protest | Photo: BCCL Hearing Damage: High Intensity: LRADs can emit extremely loud sounds at high intensity levels. Prolonged exposure to such loud sounds can cause hearing damage or loss.Close Proximity: If individuals are in close proximity to the device when it is activated, there is a risk of immediate hearing damage. Safety Concerns: Startle Effect: The high-intensity sound produced by LRADs can startle individuals, potentially leading to disorientation or panic, especially in crowd control situations.Safety Distances: Proper safety measures and guidelines for the deployment of LRADs are essential to avoid unintentional harm to individuals within the effective range of the device. Human Rights Concerns: Misuse: There are concerns about the potential misuse of LRADs, such as using them inappropriately for crowd control or against peaceful demonstrators, which could violate human rights. Psychological Impact: Stress and Anxiety: The use of LRADs, especially in high-stress situations, can contribute to increased stress and anxiety among those exposed to the sound. Vulnerability to Certain Populations: Children and Vulnerable Groups: Certain populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, may be more vulnerable to the potential negative effects of LRADs. Sai Tirumalaneedi, an innovative inventor from Andhra Pradesh, has made history with his incredible invention the world's tiniest washing machine. Tirumalaneedi's clever execution has amazed millions of people, showing how inventive thinking can inspire us all. Washing machine is fully functional The tiny appliance measures just 37mm x 41mm x 43mm (1.45 inches x 1.61 inches x 1.69 inches) and is recognised by Guinness World Records. Tirumalaneedi took on this challenge as a personal project, and despite its size, the washing machine is fully functional, effectively cleaning small items. Before this feat, he set a record with the smallest air cooler at the age of 17. His miniature air cooler, measuring 30mm x 12.4mm x 17mm, runs on a 1.8-volt battery and consists of a motor, wire, and a Vaseline jelly jar. The India Book of Records confirmed this achievement on March 5, 2022. Tiny wonders in Guinness World Records Surprises are abundant in the world of Guinness World Records, especially when it comes to miniature marvels. Gowrishankar Gummadidhala from Telangana crafted the world's smallest spoon, so tiny that an ant can hold it. The wooden spoon measures just 4.5mm (0.18 inches) in length. indiatimes image Ramkumar Sarangapani, another Indian, holds an impressive 18 record titles in Guinness World Records and aims to break 100. Among his accomplishments is the creation of the smallest pack of playing cards, measuring a mere 7mm x 5mm x 4.86mm. India's smallest refrigerator In 2021, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kamal Kishore Majhi, a BTech student from Bhadrak town in Odisha, devised India's smallest refrigerator, earning recognition in the India Book of Records. Motivated by the difficulties encountered in storing and transporting COVID-19 vaccines, Kamal channelled his creativity towards addressing societal needs. Twitter Utilising basic components like aluminium sheets, thermocol, and cooling fans, he crafted a compact, portable, cost-effective refrigerator with a price ranging from Rs 1,000 to 1,500. Powered by an ordinary UPS battery or a 12-volt car battery for extended usage, Kamal's creation offers a solution for areas lacking electricity supply. Additionally, he has demonstrated innovation in other areas, including mini vacuum cleaners and foot-operated hand sanitisers, aspiring to become a space scientist in the future. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. The United Kingdom has unveiled a new opportunity for Indian citizens seeking to settle, work, or study in the country for a period of two years. The British High Commission in India recently announced the introduction of a ballot system as part of the India Young Professionals Scheme. File India Young Professionals Scheme Under this initiative, the UK will allocate 3,000 visas to individuals from India aged between 18 to 30 years old, granting them the chance to pursue their professional endeavors in the country. The ballot window is scheduled to open from February 20 at 2:30 pm India Standard Time (IST) until February 22 at 2:30 pm IST. An official announcement on X (formerly Twitter) encouraged interested candidates to participate in the ballot for a chance to apply for the visa. Eligibility criteria Eligible applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or a higher education certificate. Additionally, they are required to provide personal details such as name, date of birth, passport information including a scan or photo, contact number, and email address. Financial stability is also a prerequisite, with candidates expected to demonstrate savings of at least GBP 2,530 and confirm that they do not have any dependent children under the age of 18. Pexels Steps to follow after being successful The ballot will randomly select successful entries, and the results will be communicated to applicants via email within two weeks of the poll's closure. Subsequently, successful candidates will have up to 90 days from the date of the email to apply for the visa. This process involves submitting biometric data and paying the visa application fee, which includes the immigration health surcharge. Upon completing these steps, individuals must travel to the UK within six months to activate their visa. Cost & aim The cost of the visa is 298 (approximately 31,110). The India Young Professionals Scheme is part of the UK-India Mobility and Migration Partnership, established in May 2021. By facilitating opportunities for young Indian professionals, the scheme aims to foster greater mobility and strengthen ties between the UK and India. With the launch of the India Young Professionals Scheme, Indian citizens have a unique opportunity to explore professional prospects in the UK and contribute to the diverse cultural and economic landscape of the country. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. Erie County Republicans have selected West Seneca Supervisor Gary Dickson as their nominee for the vacant congressional seat formerly held by Rep. Brian Higgins. Dickson, 65, will face an uphill battle against State Sen. Tim Kennedy, the Democratic nominee for the seat, and possibly Nate McMurray, a Democrat who is trying to get enough signatures to get on the ballot. Im running because I think the public deserves a choice, Dickson said in an interview with The Buffalo News. Our next congressman shouldnt be simply anointed by the Erie County Democrats. You know, its an election its not a coronation. And we dont need yet another career politician in Washington. That is not going to solve our problems. An Army veteran, Dickson worked as a special agent with the FBI and also served as the FBI liaison in the American embassies in Russia and Romania. Upon retiring after 27 years with the bureau, he worked for JPMorgan Chase and M&T Bank. He retired from M&T in 2019. That same year, the one-time Democrat became the first Republican supervisor elected in West Seneca in 50 years. He was re-elected to a second term in November, leading a Republican sweep of the Town Board seats, town clerk and town justice. Gary Dickson is one of the most respected Republican elected officials in Western New York, said Erie County Republican Chairman Michael Kracker. Hes a proven vote-getter in a historically deep-blue town. He ran on a message of bringing common sense problem-solving to government that resonated with voters across the political spectrum. Democrats outnumber Republicans by a more than 2-to-1 margin in the 26th Congressional District. Dickson pointed out that he was twice elected in West Seneca despite Democrats outnumbering Republicans by more than 5,000 voters in the town. My priorities are all going to be kind of geared towards whats best for Western New York, Dickson said. Delivering tax relief, strengthening the regional economy, securing our borders. But Im also very interested in getting big money out of politics, enabling the public to participate more and enacting term limits for federal officials. Dickson is married to West Seneca Republican Chairwoman Patti Stephens. He said his experience in local government, where he often takes questions from town residents on Facebook and encourages them to call his cellphone, makes him closer to the people than Kennedy. One great thing about being in local politics is that you couldnt be closer to the public, Dickson said. Whatever you do, youre going to hear about it, good or bad. Youre going to run into them in the supermarket, youre going to see them at a restaurant, theyre going to call your cellphone at all hours. I think wed be a lot better off if we had more local officials in state and federal government. The special election for Higgins former seat will take place April 30. Higgins, a 64-year-old Buffalo Democrat, announced in November that he was leaving to become president of Sheas Performing Arts Center. Kennedy, D-Buffalo, announced in November his campaign to succeed Higgins in Washington. Kennedy received the endorsement of the Erie County Democratic Committee in January. Republicans had not said who they would endorse for the seat in the heavily Democratic 26th Congressional District. Kennedy at the endorsement meeting rattled off Democratic priorities like abortion access, the expansion of workers rights and state gun laws passed in the wake of the Tops mass shooting. Also vying for the position is Nate McMurray, the former Grand Island supervisor who previously mounted two unsuccessful runs for Congress in a majority Republican congressional district. McMurray would need to collect thousands of signatures to qualify for the ballot. Even if he does not qualify for the special election, McMurray has said he will challenge Kennedy in the Democratic primary for the general election two months later for the full term. McMurray says he is running because of the threat he says former President Donald Trump poses to American democracy. Kracker said he believes Dickson can appeal to crossover voters by taking a local government-style approach to Washington. I think solving problems and being able to work across the aisle, certainly in local government, thats what you have to do, Kracker said. Whereas in Albany and Washington, some of that doesnt happen every day, especially under one party rule, like we see in Albany where Senator Kennedys coming out of. The Suez Canal, since its inception in 1869, has served as a vital maritime route, significantly impacting global trade and commerce. Its strategic location as a shortcut between Europe and Asia revolutionised sea transportation, drastically reducing travel distances and time. Prior to the construction of the Suez Canal, ships traveling from London to India had to navigate around the entire continent of Africa, resulting in a lengthy and arduous journey through the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. AP However, with the opening of the canal, ships could now traverse directly from the Red Sea to the Arabian Sea, saving approximately 8,900 kilometers in distance. This monumental shortcut facilitated seamless connectivity between Europe and Asia, fostering unprecedented economic exchanges and transforming the landscape of international trade. The significance of the Suez Canal cannot be overstated, as it became a lifeline for global commerce. 1967 saw the world's worst traffic jam But, its importance was starkly highlighted during a tumultuous period in 1967. At the height of political tensions between Egypt and Israel, the canal bore witness to a pivotal moment that would disrupt trade and reverberate across the world. On June 5, 1967, amidst escalating tensions, fifteen cargo ships embarked on a routine journey through the Suez Canal. Little did they know that their intended twelve-hour voyage would stretch into an eight-year ordeal, marking one of the most severe traffic jams in human history. As conflict erupted between Egypt and Israel, the canal became a battleground, with airstrikes and bombings wreaking havoc on its infrastructure. The Egyptian government, in response to the escalating crisis, made the difficult decision to close the canal to maritime traffic, leaving the stranded ships in limbo. With the outbreak of war and the establishment of new borders, alternate routes across Africa became the only option for maritime trade, leading to significant disruptions and economic losses on a global scale. It opened after 8 long years In the aftermath of the conflict, the Suez Canal remained closed for several years, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the global economy. It wasn't until June 5, 1975, exactly eight years after the fateful journey of the cargo ships, that the canal was finally reopened. The debris-filled waterway, symbolizing the scars of conflict and disruption, required extensive clearing efforts to restore its functionality. The closure and subsequent reopening of the Suez Canal underscored the profound impact of geopolitical tensions on international trade and maritime transportation. The wars of 1967 and 1973 served as stark reminders of the fragility of global supply chains and the interconnectedness of economies worldwide. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the Suez Canal has persevered as a vital artery of global commerce, facilitating the movement of goods and fostering economic prosperity across continents. Its resilience in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the enduring importance of maritime transportation in shaping the modern world. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. A tragic incident occurred at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Nigeria, where Olabode Olawuyi, a longtime zookeeper responsible for caring for the animals, was fatally attacked by one of the lions he had raised since its birth. The university revealed that the attack took place while Olawuyi was feeding the lions. AP He had been feeding the lions for a decade Despite the efforts of his colleagues to intervene and rescue him, Olawuyi sustained fatal injuries from the lion's attack. But, he could not be saved. Following the incident, the lion involved in the attack was euthanised. Olawuyi, a veterinary technologist, had been "taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about nine years ago". "But, tragically, the male lion killed the man who had been feeding them," the university's spokesman, Abiodun Olarewaju, said. "We never knew what came over the male lion that it had to attack [him]," he added. BCCL Community in mourning The loss of Olabode Olawuyi has deeply saddened the university community, and condolences have poured in for his family and loved ones. The university has expressed its grief over the tragic incident and is providing support to those affected by the loss. The university's vice-chancellor, Prof Adebayo Simeon Bamire, said he was "saddened" by the incident and ordered a thorough investigation. The students' union leader, Abbas Akinremi, told Nigeria's Vanguard newspaper that the attack was caused by "human error" after the zookeeper had forgotten to lock the door after feeding the lions. He described the incident as unfortunate, while paying tribute to Olawuyi as a "good and humble man, who attended to us nicely whenever we went to the zoo". For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. Ashwin Ramaswami, a 24-year-old software engineer, is poised to make history as the first Gen Z Indian-American to step into United States politics by running for the state senate. Born between 1997 and 2012, Generation Z, also known as Zoomers, represents a new wave of political engagement and leadership. A second-generation immigrant, Ramaswami's parents migrated from Tamil Nadu to the US in the 1990s. His candidacy for State Senator in District 48 of Georgia marks a significant milestone, potentially making him the first Indian-American to hold this position in the state. It was great to visit my high school @HoochHappenings and see my teachers and mentors! I am dedicated to fully funding our public education system and improving opportunities for all our students. pic.twitter.com/t8OtBg6b3i Ashwin Ramaswami for State Senate (@ashwinforga) February 6, 2024 Further, his election is set to make him the first Gen Z State Senator in Georgia and the only Georgia state legislator with both a computer science and a law degree.. Running as a Democratic candidate, Ramaswami faces off against Republican Shawn Still, notable for his indictment alongside former US president Donald Trump in connection with the January 6 US Capitol insurrection. Who is Ashwin Ramaswami? A tech startup entrepreneur with a background in cybersecurity for the US government, Ramaswami currently operates a consulting firm specializing in technology law and policy. Hailing from Georgia, he has collaborated with various nonprofits, startups, and small businesses to harness technology for public welfare and job creation. A product of Stanford University's Class of 2021, Ramaswami's upbringing and heritage deeply influence his aspirations. "I was born and grew up in Georgia. I'm a second-generation immigrant, an Indian American, a twin brother, and an engineer," his campaign website declares. Expressing his motivation for entering politics, Ramaswami articulates a commitment to community service and equal opportunities. "I'm running for (Georgia) State Senate to give back to my community. I want to make sure that everyone has the same opportunities that I had growing up," he shared with news agency PTI. Today, Im excited to announce my campaign for GA State Senate District 48! I am committed to bringing inclusive, informed, and forward-thinking leadership to our State Senate. Learn more at https://t.co/uJuTlN3M00. pic.twitter.com/os0t4sSV2X Ashwin Ramaswami for State Senate (@ashwinforga) December 12, 2023 Identifying as a Hindu, Ramaswami underscores his enduring fascination with Indian culture and philosophy. "My mom is from Chennai, my dad is from Coimbatore. I've always grown up with Indian culture and also American culture growing up as well. I'm a Hindu. I've been very interested in Indian culture and philosophy my whole life," he affirmed. Rooted in his upbringing, Ramaswami's candidacy symbolises a commitment to inclusivity and representation. "I want to give back to the community to ensure everyone has the same opportunities I had growing up," he said, emphasising the importance of amplifying the voices of young individuals from diverse backgrounds in politics. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. Bob Moore, the visionary behind Bobs Red Mill, a beloved natural foods company, passed away at 94, leaving behind a legacy of employee empowerment and whole grain excellence. Getty Transfered ownership of the company in 2010 Moores commitment to his employees was witnessed in his decision to transfer ownership of the company to them in 2010, through an employee stock ownership plan initiated on his 81st birthday. What began as a modest endeavor with 209 staffers blossomed into a thriving enterprise with over 700 employees by April 2020, all of whom became stakeholders in the company's success. Moore's entrepreneurial journey was unconventional, starting with humble beginnings like managing gas stations and stores at JCPenney before venturing into goat farming with his late wife Charlee. In 1968, Moore's life took a transformative turn when he stumbled upon the tale of "John Goffes Mill," inspiring him to establish his own grain mill in Redding, California, at the age of 49. His commitment to preserving the integrity of grains, abstaining from conventional processing methods, laid the foundation for Bobs Red Mill's ethos. Under Moore's leadership, the company flourished, expanding its reach to over 70 countries and achieving revenue exceeding $100 million by 2018. Wanted to avoid conventional business models He had earlier told Fortune that he intended to avoid conventional business models in which owners and management prioritise their profits over employees. "I learned almost 70 years ago how integral hard work and kindness is to success," Moore said. "As our small business grew, I realized I had a great opportunity for generosity. My favourite bible scripture, Matthew 7:12, says do unto others what you'd want them to do unto you. That's something I think we should all live by," he continued. Despite lucrative offers to sell, Moore remained steadfast in his dedication to Bobs Red Mill, emphasising the importance of preserving his legacy. His profound attachment to the company was evident in his statement to Forbes in 2018, where he described it as "an absolute dream come true." Retiring in 2018, Moore continued to serve as a board member, ensuring the company remained true to its principles even after his passing. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to employee ownership have left an indelible mark on Bobs Red Mill and the natural foods industry as a whole, embodying the essence of integrity, empowerment, and legacy. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. The story of Tarzan and Mowgli, fictional characters raised by wild animals in the jungle, has long captured the imagination of readers. While such tales seem far-fetched, there have been documented cases where real-life children have been raised by animals. X Lived with dogs for 5 years at the age 3 One such extraordinary case is that of Oxana Malaya from Ukraine, who claims to have spent her childhood living among dogs. According to the New York Post, Oxana's life took a dramatic turn at the age of 3 when her alcoholic parents abandoned her outside in the cold. Seeking warmth and shelter, she followed her pet dog into its kennel and remained there for nearly five years. During this time, Oxana adopted animal-like behaviors, including barking, growling, and walking on all fours. Reflecting on her unusual upbringing, Oxana stated, "Mom had too many kids; we didn't have enough beds. So I crawled to the dog and started living with her." She recounted making a home for herself inside the kennel and living alongside the dog as her companion for the next five years. She would lick herself clean, bark to communicate Oxana described how the dog and other neighborhood strays treated her as one of their own. Communication between Oxana and the dogs consisted of barking and repeating sounds, forming their unique means of interaction. She even adapted her grooming habits, licking herself clean, and scavenged for food like the dogs, rummaging through garbage bins and consuming raw meat. Anna Chalaya, the director of the special care institution where Oxana currently resides, described her behavior, stating, "She was more like a little dog than a human child." Oxana exhibited canine-like actions such as showing her tongue when seeing water and eating without using her hands. At the age of 9, Ukrainian authorities were alerted to Oxana's situation, prompting efforts to rescue her. However, the rescue mission was met with resistance from the protective dogs guarding Oxana. It took the officials' distraction with food to successfully remove her from the kennel and place her into foster care. Despite being taken into a foster home and receiving rehabilitation to learn basic human skills, Oxana retained some of her canine behaviors. Even into adulthood, experts determined that she had the mental capacity of a 6-year-old. Child psychologist Lyn Fry commented on Oxana's case, expressing doubts about her ability to acquire language and other essential skills. "If you haven't got language by about [age] 5, you're probably not going to get language at all," Fry explained Oxana's story is just one of approximately 100 known feral cases throughout history, as reported by the Post. In the early 2000s, she was reunited with both her mother and father, marking a significant chapter in her ongoing journey of rehabilitation and integration into society. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. Property enthusiasts now have the rare opportunity to own a piece of history as Historic Wigmore Castle, a 1,000-year-old fortress nestled in Herefordshire, is up for grabs at a reduced price of 450,000 (approximately Rs 4 crore). English Heritage Features of the historic Wigmore Castle Originally listed at 500,000 (Rs 4.4 crore), the castle has seen a 50,000 (Rs 44 lakh) reduction in its asking price after failing to attract interest over the past six months. Dating back 956 years, historic Wigmore Castle is renowned as one of the UK's most notable ruins, according to English Heritage. Situated on a sprawling 29.84-acre parcel of land, the Grade I-listed castle comes with extensive grounds, including a moat, woodland, and even a jousting field. Additionally, purchasers will have the opportunity to transform a barn workshop on-site into a two-bedroom dwelling, thanks to existing planning permission. Access to the property is provided via a private driveway. However, there's a stipulation attached to the sale: the grounds must remain accessible to the public. English Heritage retains a right of way for a path leading to the castle, as mandated by law for properties under the guardianship of the Secretary of State. Despite this requirement, English Heritage emphasises that acquiring the site would be an investment in something extraordinary. Rich legacy of the 1067 castle Originally established in 1067 by William Fitz Osbern, the castle holds a rich historical legacy, having hosted numerous kings and queens throughout its storied past. Today, amidst the picturesque landscape of Herefordshire, it stands as a testament to centuries of history, featuring remnants of turrets and essential walls. While parts of the castle site may be overgrown, its grounds have evolved into a habitat for various rare plants and wildlife species. A representative from Sunderland estate agents expressed enthusiasm about the unique opportunity presented by Wigmore Castle, describing it as a "one-of-a-kind chance" to acquire a Grade I Listed property steeped in history. The castle served as a significant seat of authority for over 500 years and holds immense cultural significance, having welcomed monarchs throughout its illustrious history. With its rich heritage and potential for transformation, Historic Wigmore Castle offers buyers a truly remarkable investment opportunity. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. In the bustling streets of Delhi, amidst the chaos and clamor, a young boy's unwavering determination and resilience shine through. Despite the harsh realities of his circumstances, he devotes himself to his studies while making ends meet by working to support his family. With a makeshift desk on a footpath, he diligently immerses himself in his books, striving to secure a better future. His story, a poignant reflection of countless others facing similar struggles, has touched the hearts of many across the internet. Moved by his dedication and perseverance, people from all walks of life have rallied together, eager to extend a helping hand. This outpouring of support offers him hope and underscores the power of community and compassion in transforming lives. As his tale spreads, it serves as a potent reminder of the profound impact of kindness and solidarity in uplifting those in need. What Is The Story Behind This Little Boy Studying On The Delhi Footpath? Delhi footpath boy studies and works to support his family: Internet wants to help | Image: Instagram A heartening clip featuring a young boy engrossed in his studies while seated on a sidewalk in Delhi has resonated deeply with users across social media platforms. Shared by a photographer named Harry based in Delhi, the video surfaced on his Instagram page on February 16. The boy, Pawan, can be observed conversing with Harry in the footage. Pawan reveals that he attends sixth grade and earns a living by selling hairbands on the sidewalk near Kamla Nagar Market to support his family. Delhi footpath boy studies and works to support his family: Internet wants to help | Image: Instagram When questioned about his family situation, Pawan discloses that his father is in Kolkata while his mother remains at home. In response to Harry's inquiry regarding why he doesn't study at home, Pawan explains, "I don't have enough time at home." Pawan's commitment to providing for his family was evident to Harry, who captured multiple photos of the boy and shared them with his story in an Instagram post. The caption of Harry's post reads, "Encountered this young boy studying on a sidewalk near Kamla Nagar Market. Upon inquiry, he revealed that he supports his family while his father is in Kolkata. I was struck by his dedication and decided to capture the moment." Where Can You Watch The Viral Video? Delhi footpath boy studies and works to support his family: Internet wants to help | Image: Instagram You can watch the viral video posted by Harry on Instagram. How Did The Internet React? After the post appeared online, it attracted nearly 10 million views. The video has captured the hearts of social media users, who share their thoughts in the post's comment section. Internet reacts to Delhi footpath boy studies and works to support his family: Internet wants to help | Image: Instagram Internet reacts to Delhi footpath boy studies and works to support his family: Internet wants to help | Image: Instagram What do you think about it? Do let us know in the comments. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Swedish photographer Alex Dawson has won the prestigious title of Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 for his magnificent shot of Whale Bones. The intriguing photograph shows a breath-hold diver exploring a minke whale bone beneath the Greenland ice sheet. Why did this image stood out among 6500 entries? Dawson's winning image stood out amid 6500 entries | Image: Instagram According to Amateur Photographer.com, Dawson's winning image stood out amid 6500 entries from underwater photographers around the world. His shot not only captures the beauty of the underwater world, but it also highlights the condition of marine life. Despite representing a byproduct of small-scale whaling, the photograph emphasizes the global collapse of marine and wildlife populations. What did the judge of the competition say about this image? Alex Mustard, a former marine scientist and competition judge, lauded Dawson's work, writing in the photograph's judge's comments section that the superb composition asks viewers to ponder our impact on the planet's greatest creatures. Mustard underlined the need for a shift in our approach to wildlife protection, as wild creatures had dropped by 85% since the rise of humans. In a statement to the BBC, Mustard described the difficult conditions under which Whale Bones was photographed, with the breath-hold diver going beneath the Greenland ice sheet to see the carcasses. He observed that the diver's outfit and torch give the image a visiting alien atmosphere, bringing spectators into the setting. Dawson expressed his thanks on Instagram | Image: Instagram Following his achievement, Dawson expressed his thanks on Instagram, writing, "I am honoured to have been given the award of Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 in London this weekend with my winning image 'Whale Bones'." This photograph was entered in the Wide Angle category, using freediving mode." The competition consists of 13 categories, including Macro, Wide-Angle, Behavior, and Wreck, as well as four dedicated to images shot in British waters. How is underwater photography a challenging task? Underwater photographers face difficult conditions to explore the lesser-known areas of our blue world and share the wonders of the sea. The UPY competition features underwater photographs from photographers all around the world, with winners chosen in twelve categories such as macro, behaviour, wrecks, and compact, as well as three categories dedicated especially to British waters. The competition also gives the Save Our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation Photographer of the Year title. The Crown Estate sponsored an awards ceremony in Mayfair, London, that unveiled the winning photographs. What do you think about this? Tell us in the comments. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. World's largest e-commerce platform Amazon is planning to soon launch a new online marketplace in India, named 'Bazaar', which will have inexpensive, unbranded fashion and lifestyle products. Amazon To Launch 'Under Rs 600' Marketplace Named Bazaar amazon bazaar/shutterstock Amazon Bazaar has already started the process of onboarding sellers and requests that they list unbranded goods, such as clothing, luggage, watches, shoes, and jewelry, at prices under Rs 600. Bazaar is a new store on Amazon where you can sell your fashion and lifestyle products online at no extra charges, thus making it more profitable to run your business, a document from Amazon to sellers said. Those who are aware of the plan say that Amazon Bazaar products will probably take two to three days to arrive, which is different from the quick delivery that Prime members are entitled to. Given the growing pressure from quick commerce platforms, Amazon is also in the early stages of talks with brands and sellers to be able to deliver specific products in a matter of hours. Consumer cohorts at the lower end of the market typically do not prioritise faster deliveriesThey (Amazon India) have lost out on the segment so far and essentially want to tap the typical Meesho customer, said one of them, as per ET report. Also Read: Why Netflix Once Rejected Amazon's $15 Million Offer To Buy The Streaming Giant Amazon Bazaar Set To Challenge Meesho & Others meesho /reuters SoftBank-backed Meesho has already entered the low cost marketplace effectively, and Shopsy, owned by Walmart and operating through a different app, is the other significant player. Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Industries is also developing Ajio Street, a low-cost platform. Amazon is suggesting that merchants pay no referral fees, which is crucial for goods with low average selling prices (ASP). Meesho has an average selling price (ASP) of Rs 300350 and uses a zero commission business model to monetize its advertising and provide sellers with logistics services. Meesho, unlike e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart, does not own or manage warehouses or logistics. Amazon's $26 Billion Investment Plan For India By 2030 amazons/getty Last year, Amazon had committed to investing an additional $15 billion in India over the next seven years, taking its total India investment across all businesses to $26 billion by the year 2030. After meeting India's PM Narendra Modi last year, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy had said that the company has pledged to digitise 10 million small businesses, enable $20 billion in exports, and create two-million jobs in India by 2025. Also Read: Amazon Launches Amazon Air In India For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here After laying off around 12,000 employees last year, Google is among the big tech giants that have already announced more layoffs in 2024. While cost cutting is a common reason given by most tech giants when they announce layoffs, a recent incident that has come to light, seems to be showing a different story. Google Hikes Employee's Salary By 300% To Retain Him google 300% hike/indiatimes The CEO of Perplexity AI, Aravind Srinivas, recently brought attention to the extent that major tech companies, like Google, will go to in order to retain their employees. This was discussed on the Big Technology Podcast, wherein Srinivas described a particular incident in which Google offered to increase an employee's pay by four times, or by 300%, in order to retain him and prevent his switch to Perplexity AI. Although the employee in question was not directly involved with Google's AI division and was a member of the search team, the company decided that it was imperative to make a substantial increase in his offer in order to keep him from leaving. The AI startup's Srinivas, who graduated from IIT Madras, expressed his surprise that Google was willing to make such a significant increase in the offer. Srinivas also mentioned the subject of tech industry layoffs. According to him, it's unclear what standards businesses employ to decide who gets fired. He said he had heard that companies might target high-paid individuals who don't contribute proportionately to productivity. He made the point that workers at places like Google are able to take long vacations without it negatively impacting the business, but there appears to be a shift in the direction of paying closer attention to output rather than compensation. perplexity founders/fortune Also Read: How Big Tech CEOs Justified Their Company's Mass Layoffs How Many Employees Have Been Laid Off By Google? After nearly 12,000 layoffs in 2023, Google and its parent Alphabet's CEO Sundar Pichai has warned his employees to brace more layoffs in 2024. In an internal memo shared with Google employees on Wednesday, Pichai said We have ambitious goals and will be investing in our big priorities this year. The reality is that to create the capacity for this investment, we have to make tough choices. Pichai had mentioned that these role eliminations are not at the scale of last years reductions, and will not touch every team. What CEO Sundar Pichai Had Said About 12,000 Layoffs Last Year layoffs 2024/shutterstock When Google laid off around 12,000 employees last year, CEO Sundar Pichai had penned down an email to Google employees, wherein he mentioned this: "I have some difficult news to share. Weve decided to reduce our workforce by approximately 12,000 roles. Weve already sent a separate email to employees in the US who are affected. In other countries, this process will take longer due to local laws and practices. This will mean saying goodbye to some incredibly talented people we worked hard to hire and have loved working with. Im deeply sorry for that. The fact that these changes will impact the lives of Googlers weighs heavily on me, and I take full responsibility for the decisions that led us here." "Over the past two years weve seen periods of dramatic growth. To match and fuel that growth, we hired for a different economic reality than the one we face today. I am confident about the huge opportunity in front of us thanks to the strength of our mission, the value of our products and services, and our early investments in AI. To fully capture it, well need to make tough choices. So, weve undertaken a rigorous review across product areas and functions to ensure that our people and roles are aligned with our highest priorities as a company. The roles were eliminating reflect the outcome of that review. They cut across Alphabet, product areas, functions, levels and regions. While this transition wont be easy, were going to support employees as they look for their next opportunity." Also read: How To Be Financially Prepared Amid Mass Layoff Wave For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here The U.S. Census Bureau is thinking about how to ask about sex. People have opinions. Dozens of health officials, civil rights groups, individuals and businesses have weighed in about how the statistical agency should ask about sexual orientation and gender identity for the first time on its most comprehensive survey of American life. An Associated Press review of the 91 written public comments posted last month shows them to be largely supportive of the proposed additions, though not without constructive criticism. The proposed questions geared toward people age 15 and older will be tested sometime this year. If given final approval, they would be the first to directly ask about these topics on the American Community Survey, which already asks about commuting times, internet access, family life, income, education levels, disabilities and military service, for example. Many who submitted public comments said the proposed questions will provide a better understanding of the diversity of LGBTQ+ people in the United States at a time when state legislatures are limiting what can be discussed about LGBTQ issues in public schools and are moving to restrict the ability of transgender people to change their driver's licenses and birth certificates. "The currently too-limited data resources stand in stark contrast to the numerous policy debates and legislative efforts focused on these populations," said Gary Gates, a retired demographer who studied LGBTQ+ issues at UCLA. Gates, however, objected to wording that would allow someone to answer, "Straight, that is not gay" for the sexual orientation question. "The phrase is patently offensive," Gates wrote. "Not being gay is hardly an accurate definition of a straight identity. Why emphasize that they specifically are not gay? It is simply not an adequate description of straight identity." The questions should reflect the constantly changing language describing sexual orientation and gender identity particularly among young people, and some non-English speakers may not understand terms like "heterosexual," said David Ernesto Munar, president and CEO of Howard Brown Health, which provides health care services to the LGBTQ community in Chicago. Others lamented the lack of categories for people with intersex traits or who are asexual or pansexual. Intersex is an umbrella term for a number of conditions where internal or external sex characteristics aren't exactly like typical male or female bodies. Asexual people don't experience sexual feelings, while pansexual people are attracted to people regardless of gender. Rene Coig objected to respondents being asked their sex at birth and then being asked their current gender. Asking to respond to the first question as "male" or "female" is alienating to transgender people who may not want to be identified with those labels, said Coig, a doctoral candidate at the University of Washington. Others were disheartened by transgender being separated out as a category from male, female and nonbinary in the gender question instead of including the options of transgender man and transgender woman. "It may imply that they are not 'male enough' or 'female enough' to select the male and female categories and are instead a third category of 'transgender' that is distinct from the male and female categories," said Amy Leite Bennett, an official with Hennepin County Health and Human Services in Minneapolis. The current questions on the American Community Survey only record same-sex couples who are living together, through queries about household relationships, which is only about a sixth of the LGBTQ+ population in the U.S., according to some estimates. As a result, the survey misses people who are single or not cohabitating, as well as transgender people. The only other census survey that asks about sexual orientation and gender identity is the more limited, experimental Household Pulse Survey, which was created to measure changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. People who fill out the American Community Survey form typically answer the questions for the other members of their household in what is called a proxy response. Because of that, several public comments expressed concerns that parents would not know if their children identify as LGBTQ+. Respondents can answer the questions online, by mail, over the phone or through in-person interviews. Given privacy concerns, the Census Bureau is proposing using flash cards for in-person interviews and using numbered response categories for people who do not want others in their household to know their responses. Several Republicans in the U.S. Senate objected to some of the proposed questions. In a letter last November, Sens. Marco Rubio of Florida and JD Vance of Ohio asked Census Bureau Director Robert Santos to drop plans to ask about gender identity, saying it would politicize the survey and risk jeopardizing the legitimacy of its data. The Rutherford Institute, a conservative civil liberties legal group, said in public comments that the proposed questions would violate people's right to privacy, adding that "many people are incredibly uncomfortable providing such detailed private information." The test questions The U.S. Census Bureau this year plans to test questions about sexual orientation and gender 25 actors who've come out after playing an LGBTQ+ character 25 actors who've come out after playing an LGBTQ+ character Ronen Rubinstein Samira Wiley Bella Ramsey Kit Connor Mae Whitman Chris Colfer Renee Rapp Jake Borelli Sara Ramirez Ellen DeGeneres Sean Hayes Adamo Ruggiero Omar Ayuso Kate Moennig Dan Levy Kristen Stewart Victor Garber Kaylee Kaneshiro Zachary Quinto Dominique Provost-Chalkley Tyler Posey Demi Lovato Clea DuVall Shah Rukh Khan is one celebrity that everyone loves to love. Therefore, both his personal and professional life are under constant scrutiny of his fans and followers. Recently, the Dunki actor made an appearance at the World Governments Summit 2024 which was held in Dubai. He expressed his love for the city in detail and also revealed that his next-door neighbour In Dubai is a billionaire and an influential personality. SRKs Neighbour Is None Other Than Dubais Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ANI Shah Rukh Khan said, I spend a lot of time here [in Dubai]. I have a beautiful house which has been given to me by Nakheel [Properties, Government of Dubai-owned real estate]. And its one of the nicest places in the world because nobody troubles me. And His Excellency, the Prime Minister, also just told me that he stays next to it. So the next new year party is with him. Hes a good neighbour, but its really nice. I really, really enjoy being in Dubai. I really love being here. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: Net Worth & Other Interesting Trivia According to Celebrity Net Worth and South China Morning Post, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is estimated to possess a net wealth ranging from $14 billion to $18 billion (Rs 1.1 lakh crore - Rs 1.4 lakh crore). arabian news He primarily derives his income from real estate, and it is reported that he has supported the establishment of government-owned enterprises such as Emirates Airlines, DP World, and Jumeirah Group. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is recognized as the visionary behind iconic landmarks such as Burj Al Arab (initially named Burj Dubai), renowned as the world's only seven-star hotel, Burj Khalifa, the tallest building globally, and the creation of Palm Islands. Dubai PMs Family, Home And Education Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended Bell Cambridge and Mons Officer Cadet School, as reported by the BBC. He is married to his senior wife and consort, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Al Maktoum, who is the mother of 12 of his children. She also holds the title of the mother of the heir apparent, Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. In total, Sheikh Mohammed has 23 children from various marriages. trawell Additionally, Zabeel Palace features a private zoo and a horse racing track, reflecting the royal family's affection for animals. Have you ever wondered if your credit card could keep up with your fast-paced, digital lifestyle? Join the league as who wouldn't want that, right? You must know that new regulations now allow users to link their RuPay credit card to UPI. Imagine the convenience youll get by merging UPI seamlessly with your credit card it's not just a cool trend, it's legit the future of payments. Just scan, pay, and voila! You're in for getting rewards, smooth transactions, and many more perks. Meet the IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card, which is not just a credit card but the golden ticket to the coolest adventure. From facilitating UPI transactions to delivering exciting perks, this digital RuPay credit card is turning heads for all the right reasons. So, discover why we are impressed with this digital RuPay credit card. Trust us, its going to be epic! Why Is The IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card Creating A Buzz? The IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card is turning heads because its gives users the superpower to make UPI transactions through their credit card. This means you can use it to scan and pay at more than 60 million merchant QR codes across the country. If you ask for the coolest part, then lets tell you that it lets you earn reward points with each UPI payment. The Perks Of The IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card For Seamless Transactions Pexels Digital Bliss: No more using the old-school plastic cards because the IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card offers a fully digital experience, connecting seamlessly to your existing IDFC FIRST Bank credit limit for a hassle-free and secure digital journey. Reward Rendezvous- With this card, you can bag 3X reward points on UPI transactions over Rs. 2,000. Ones that are lower still fetch 1X rewards isnt this cool? Earn points from everyday spends, which you can redeem on any future transaction. Also, these points never expire, giving you the freedom to redeem them whenever you want. EMI Ease- Got big UPI plans but worried about the bill? Fret not! IDFC FIRST Bank lets you turn your UPI splurges into easy EMIs, giving you financial flexibility and peace of mind. Merchant Collabs- Theres no doubt that IDFC FIRST Bank's UPI game is strong. They let you scan QR codes at a whopping 60 million+ merchants. So, no more fumbling with cash just the smooth sailing of digital payments with your trusty digital credit card. Also, enjoy exclusive merchant offers on your credit card. Cashback? Yes Of Course- For a limited time, relish a 100% cashback worth up to Rs. 200 on your first 4 UPI transactions within 15 days of your digital card's generation. That's up to Rs. 50 cashback on each transaction. Interest-free Credit for Up To 48 Days- The IDFC FIRST Digital Credit Card lets you pay for almost anything and will give you a generous repayment window of up to 48 days. Isnt it amazing? Whether it's a spontaneous purchase or a planned spend, this feature will ensure you can enjoy a fee-free splurge. Pexels How To Get One? If you already own one of IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards or are applying for new one, such as the FIRST Classic, FIRST WOW!, FIRST Millennia, FIRST Wealth, FIRST Private or FIRST SWYP, get the card instantly at a joining and annual fee of Rs 199 + GST. How Do I Use The Card To Make UPI Payments? Once you receive the credit card, heres how you can set it up to make UPI payments: At first, pop open your favourite UPI app- the one that makes spending and your lifestyle easy Hit up the 'Add RuPay Credit Card' option. Its like you're adding the coolest player to your team Scroll down and find IDFC FIRST Bank and pick it as your credit card Select the shiny new FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card Create a secret PIN to validate all your UPI purchases Youll get the OTP- a one-time code thatll be sent to your mobile Once you've cracked the OTP code, congrats! Your card will be added to UPI payment maestro. In a nutshell, the IDFC FIRST Digital RuPay Credit Card is the fusion of UPI and credit card convenience, youve always wanted. From the perks of going plastic-free to the convenience of making everyday purchases on credit and earning reward points, this card is truly a modern financial tool, we must say. Operatives of the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps, popularly known as KAI, said that 15 persons, suspected to be thugs, apprehended for obstructing pedestrians on the Bolade-Oshodi pedestrian bridge, sentenced to three months imprisonment without the option of a fine. It was gathered that LAGESCs spokesperson, Ajayi Lukman, disclosed on Tuesday, that the suspects were arraigned on two counts, bordering on breach of peace and unlawful conversion of government property to use by occupation. Ajayi said: The conviction of these criminal elements is a right step in the right direction, being that they have caused irreparable havoc to Lagosians in transit by harassing men, and women and dispossessing them of their valuables, which forces them to risk their lives by crossing the highways. The KAI Boss also issued warning to sellers and buyers of styrofoam food packs as enforcement which began on Monday has resulted in multiple confiscations by operatives of the Agency across the State. Labour Partys (LP) confusion seems unending as its State Chairmen have posited that N3.5 billion belonging to the Party was not misappropriated. They also passed a confidence vote on the embattled National Chairman of LP, Julius Abure, and called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party to reconsider the six months suspension slammed on the National Treasurer of the party, Oluchi Oparah. Recall that Oparah challenged the LP chairman to account for N3.5 billion raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities in the build-up to the 2023 general election. To this end, LPs 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ordered that an external auditor probes the situation. However, following an emergency meeting held at the national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, Chairman of Labour Party Council of State Chairmen, Ceekay Igara, lamented that it was unfortunate how the National Working Committee allowed external forces to create a crisis to unsettle the Party they painstakingly built. Igara, addressing journalists also denied that the council was behind the vote of no confidence passed on Abure on Sunday by a group. While backing the call for a forensic audit of the party account, the council chairman said it was convinced that no money was misappropriated as against the claim of the suspended national treasurer. READ ALSO: Julius Abure Should Step Aside For Probe State LP Chairmen To Peter Obi Over N3.5bn Fraud He said, The audit report prepared by the external auditor is very clear about the finances of the party. Let me emphatically state here that our money is not missing. We didnt generate N3.5b as claimed by the now-suspended national treasurer. We can confirm that the party only realised N1.3 million during the 2023 general election and another N700m donation, which was used by the Presidential Campaign Council. All these monies were lodged in the banks and were promptly receipted. The audit is also clear about the money generated during the off-season elections and how it was managed. From the records, virtually all the cheques were signed by her and the national chairman. It is obvious she may have been influenced to lie against the national chairman. Our leader, Peter Obi, has mediated privately on this matter. He is also aware that the sustained attacks against Abure are sponsored and politically motivated. His decision to involve an independent auditor is a welcome development and we believe that the outcome will exonerate Julius Abure as well as expose the lies being peddled by the suspended treasurer. The Chairmen further debunked the allegation that the Labour Party are planning to suspend our National Leader, Peter Obi. Like we said earlier, our party is under worst siege ever, including unleashing fierce propaganda against the party. The party has not at any time contemplated a suspension of our leader. He remains our leader and will continue to lead the party in our avowed determination to pull this country out from the strangulation under this present government. We are also using this opportunity to beg our media friends to cease on going media trial against our party and its leaders. What you are witnessing now is orchestrated and will fizzle out very soon. Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd), has begged Nigerians to give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu more time in resolving the current situation facing the country. Gowon, while addressing state house correspondents after meeting with Tinubu in Aso Rock on Wednesday, said that it is too early for the President to achieve absolute results after eight months. He said there was no leader in the country that would not be criticised, but the fact remains those at the helm of affairs know what is happening. Gowon said: I think the government is trying their best on the various problems of the country but with Nigerians, dont you worry, you can get criticised. People out there, know better than what you know. READ MORE: Atiku Calls For Review Of NYSC Scheme, Commends Yakubu Gowon I think Nigerians have to give the president time to get things really done. It is too early to sort of say the absolute result will be achieved now, so that is my opinion. Luckily enough, this time he gave me opportunity to see him to discuss various matters, especially the issue of the ECOWAS problem at the moment which I think needs to be resolved. And being the surviving member of the founding fathers, I think we have to discuss some of his plans in other to see what can be done to bring the matter under control. So, this is what has brought me here and we had an interesting discussion of. The Indigenous People of Biafra has urged people in the South-East to stay away from protests organized by Nigerians against the current economic hardship in the country. The group warned that such protests must not take place in the southeastern states because Igbo had long lost interest in Nigeria and were only waiting for an opportunity to leave. In a statement released on Tuesday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, disclosed that anyone who organised protest against economic hardship in the South-East would put Ndigbo in danger. The current hardship in Nigeria should be the concern of Nigerians, not Biafrans. Biafrans are no longer interested in the affairs of Nigeria. Biafrans were abused, intimidated, beaten, killed and denied voting rights during the election of this present government. Ndigbo were told to wait, that it was not their turn to rule. Anyone who organises any protest against economic hardship in Biafraland will put Biafrans in danger. During the #EndSARS protest, the Federal Government accused Ndigbo of attempting to destroy Nigeria with violence. We dont want such profiling and targeting to repeat because of Ndigbos participation in any Nigerian mass protest. READ MORE: Police Nab Simon Ekpas IPOB Commander Terrorising Imo Residents Ndigbo should leave the current economic hardship in the contraption called Nigeria for Nigerians to deal with because this hardship is what God Almighty has in store for Nigeria for the crimes they have committed against Biafrans between 1967 to 1970 and up to date. We understand that Ndigbo are equally affected by the economic hardship arising from the reckless and thoughtless economic policies of the government, but God is still seeing Biafrans through. Our region is battling the state-sponsored insecurity, kidnappings, and killings by the Federal Governments agencies and agents, including terrorists. We have much on our hands to do. The Lagos State Government says the reason for the proposed relocation of Computer Village, Ikeja to Katangua in Abule-Egba area of the State, is because the gadgets village is a residential area. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on electronic Geographic Information System and Urban Development, disclosed this on Tuesday, during a visit to the electronic gadgets centre in Ikeja. The assessment was conducted by the Lagos State Building Control Agency, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies and other pertinent government bodies responsible for such affairs. Babatunde said that by law, the Ikeja Computer Village is currently located in a residential area, adding that the plan to relocate the centre to Abule Egba has been delayed due to certain reasons. He, however, said the issues were being addressed already, declaring that occupants of the residential area within the computer village would soon be relocated and settled in Katangua, Abule Egba. He said, Where the Computer Village is located is, was, and will continue by law to be a residential area, hence we must follow the law. Katangua is the area designated (for such activity) by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, particularly the Office of Physical Planning. We chose Katangua because of the good road network, we are certain that we are not going to be having traffic problems once Katangua is ready to receive the people from Computer Village. The expanse of land is such that when you drive in, the person would get lost because of how huge the place is, it is not something that was not well thought of, it is within the model city plan for the area. READ ALSO: Ogun Nursing Student Drinks Sniper For Having Unwanted Pregnancy According to Bababtunde, it is incorrect to state that the market is congested, adding that no market springs up without the population around the area. He added, We are moving the village into a place where their business would thrive while maintaining the status quo, Ikeja Computer Village was a residential area before, it is presently, and I think it will continue to be a residential area., we must ensure that things are being done according to the law, since the law states that it is a residential area, it should remain as such. Katangua market will majorly accommodate the traders within the computer village, they would have market stores and outlets, and they would also have secured title to the stores allocated to them so that if they want to take loans from the properties they have within the market, they can use that with any bank. In addition, there would be banking facilities, clinics, schools, creche, storage facilities, and some housing including hotels where those who come to the place outside of Lagos would be accommodated within the area. Speaking on the price outlook, Babatunde asserted the question was difficult to answer at the moment because of the increase prices of building materials. He stated, It would be difficult to answer the question presently, I would have spoken on it if it were last year. You know what the price of cement was a few weeks ago, you know what it is today, so I think it is better for the people who would be constructing the facility to drive the cost, but we must control it. In terms of road accessibility, the access is being planned by the government. The Special Adviser noted that the relocation was gradual and consultations with market leaders and the development of the katangua site had already commenced. He disclosed, We are planning with the people, they are also ready and we will continue to carry them along on the katangua plan. The Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja has sentenced a 55-year-old man, identified as Emmanuel Adedigba, to 14 Years Imprisonment for the attempted sexual assault of his neighbors 14-year-old daughter. It was gathered that Justice Rahman Oshodi, handed down the sentence after the convict was re-arraigned on an amended charge. INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that the convict was earlier arraigned on the charge of defilement which he pleaded not guilty to. However, during the trial, the prosecution counsel, I.D. Solarin presented two witnesses. At the proceedings on Tuesday, the prosecution informed the court that the defendant had agreed to a plea bargain. While delivering the judgment, Justice Rahman said that he was satisfied with the evidence of the prosecution establishing the offence of attempt to commit sexual assault by penetration. READ MORE: 65-Year-Old Pastor Defiles Nine-Year-Old Girl In Ogun The judge also put the plea bargain sentence into consideration. He said: I have considered the plea bargain signed by the defendant and his counsel, O.S. Fasule. Consequently, I sentence the defendant to 14 years imprisonment from the date of his remand, June 15, 2021. The defendant is to have his name registered in the Sex Offenders Registry. He is to be held in the Ikoyi correctional facility. Ondo State High Court, sitting in Akure, sentenced a pastor, identified as Adewale Adelu and five others to death, over their involvement in bank robberies which took place in the state capital and Idanre in 2011. It was gathered that other convicts are, Ikechuckwu Maduagwu, Fayemi Olubusuyi, Ropo Adeleye, Dele Otopka, and Bayo Omotosho. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that these individuals were found guilty of robbing two commercial banks on November 19 and December 8, 2011, in Akure and Idanre, respectively. Following their arrest by the state command of the Nigeria Police Force, they were brought before the court, which delivered the judgement on Tuesday. However, during the court proceedings yesterday, the prosecuting counsel, F.K Salami, informed the court that the convicts, along with others, had conspired to carry out an attack and robbery at a branch of Diamond Bank Plc. It was revealed that they were armed with AK 47 guns, dynamite, and various other weapons at Oyemekun Road in Akure. READ MORE: Ondo Fashion Designer Imprisoned For Stealing Pot of Soup As a result of their criminal activities, they managed to steal a sum of N30 million, as well as numerous mobile phones and other valuable items. Salami said: The convicts on December 8, 2011, at 2 pm, were also alleged to have robbed First Bank Plc at Yaba Road, Idanre, where they carted away another sum of N4million, the prosecution stated adding that the offences contravene Sections 6b, 1 2a, and b of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R11, Vol. 14 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. The Nigeria Police Force, has confirmed the arrest of the embattled Labour Partys National Chairman, Julius Abure. Recall that Abure was nabbed on Wednesday, by the police operatives, in Benin City, the Edo State capital. However, while addressing newsmen, this evening, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force Zone 5, Tijani Momoh, disclosed that Abure was arrested for attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, and related offences. Momoh said that Abure and four others were nabbed over a petition written against them by a petitioner whose name he did not mention. He said: I wish to confirm the arrest of the factional chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure and four others. It has to do with a written petition that was endorsed by the AIG Zone 5 from the office of the Inspector General of Police. READ MORE: Well Not Be Intimidated LP Reacts As Police Arrest Abure For Attempted Murder There are video clips, recordings of the petitioner being assaulted, being beaten when he came home last year to conduct ward matters. It is a case of attempted murder, conspiracy, illegal possession of arms and other related offences1. They were also in possession of firearms; a short gun and three rounds of ammunition. Investigation is ongoing. They were just arrested today. More details will be provided later. Saranne Rothberg said she believes her father, Sidney Rothberg, would be happy that his art collection is being shared with the world. Read more Sidney Rothberg was a soldier the first time he encountered priceless art. Europe had been looted during World War II, and fences sold masterpieces on Paris street corners for cigarettes and panty hose. Rothberg, who grew up humble in Philadelphia and Atlantic City, did not purchase the pilfered treasures. But the beauty he beheld in them sparked a lifetime of insatiable curiosity about artists and their influences. By his death in 2008, at the age of 83, Rothberg, a successful commodities trader, had amassed a renowned private collection, one that spanned centuries, styles, and mediums. He hung it all on the walls of his Fairmount penthouse. Now, Rothbergs family is offering some of those works for sale. Beginning Feb. 27, the Freemans | Hindman gallery and auction house in Center City will host a two-day sale of nearly 250 works from Rothbergs collections. Titled, What Do You See? The Collection of Sidney Rothberg, the show highlights the collectors diverse taste and discerning eye. Ranging from French impressionism to European surrealism to 1960s New York avant-garde, the sale includes works from artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Alexander Calder, and Georges Seurat. Many of the pieces have been privately held for decades. This is an international event, said Raphael Chatroux, head of American Art at Freemans | Hindman. These works have not really seen the light of day for the last 40, 50, or even 60 years. Advertisement The sale follows successful exhibitions in Paris, New York, and Chicago select pieces will remain on exhibit at Freemans | Hindmans until the auction and represents a homecoming for an art collection built and curated in Philadelphia. While attending Wharton after the war, Rothberg first pursued his new passion by poring over books he found in the research stacks of the Free Library. Later, he studied at the Barnes Foundation, eventually becoming a guest lecturer, and was heavily influenced by his friendship with longtime curator Violette de Mazia. This is a Philadelphia collection, Chatroux said. These are important names and great artists that are internationally renowned, and they have been kept in Philadelphia for a very long time. Rothbergs daughter, Saranne Rothberg, the consignor of the collection, said that after so many years, she felt it was time to share the masterpieces she had grown up with. I felt we had a responsibility not to covet it, she said of the collection. For her, the sale symbolizes a personal remembrance of a passion that her father made sure to share. The shows title is taken from the question Sidney Rothberg always asked his daughter and granddaughter when viewing a new piece of art: What do you see? It was a question he posed to everyone who entered the house, from distinguished art collectors to delivery men. He hung precious art at toddler height so his daughter could see it better during his tea parties. We would sit on the floor, and he would tell me about why this piece was important in history, and how it was connected to art and what was happening in the world, said Rothberg, a stage IV cancer survivor and founder of the nonprofit ComedyCures. She is donating a portion of the shows proceeds to American Association for Cancer Research. She can remember playing on the loading docks of the old Freemans auction house when she was still in nursery school and her father, a single dad, bid on new pieces. When she was 4, he let her do the bidding herself, reminding his daughter not to jump in too early. I raised my hand and bought my first painting, she said. Sidney Rothberg hung his collection which grew to include antiquities, jewelry, glass, and ceramics in every room, and on every inch of wall, in his home. Floor to ceiling, wall to wall, closets, and even from the ceiling, said Saranne Rothberg. Everywhere he could possibly study a work. For her father, every piece of art was a story to be explored. A story of technique and palette, subject matter, and medium. Most importantly, of those critical inflection points in an artists life when they dared to try something new. My dad loved experimentation and risk, she said. He collected those moments when artists were experimenting and then becoming the great artist they were. He would then compare this artistic inflection to other, better-known works, and excitedly track down who or what influenced that shift. The Rothberg collection is rife with those moments of discovery. Theres Renoirs Head of a Boy in a Sailor Suit, a portrait the artist painted in 1885, just as he was becoming more stylized and searching for a solution to impressionism. And both Richard Diebenkorns painting, Girl in Tiled Room, and an untitled watercolor by British artist Chris Ofili, highlight Rothbergs eye for spotting early work of rising stars. Its interesting because at the time that he bought some of these works, the market was not so much in favor of these artists or those works, said Chatroux. But right now, enough time has passed [and] they are considered major. On sale day, Chatroux expects the Philly auction house to be full with bidders and that others will be joining online from all over the world. And although her father remained private about his collection during his life, Saranne Rothberg believes that he would be happy that the collection he built was now being shared. That hed ask those experiencing it anew that same question he always posed: What do you see? Select pieces from the collection are on exhibit at Freemans | Hindman, 2400 Market St., Feb. 16 - 26, 2024. Free. Superintendent Kevin Knauss notified parents last week that the South Jersey school system would begin disabling Chromebooks during hours it believes students should be resting and recovering from the school day. The times vary depending on grade level. Read more Beginning next month, students in the Deptford Township School District may have to race to finish their homework before the clock runs out for the night on their district-issued Chromebooks. Citing an uptick in screen time on devices at night, Superintendent Kevin Kanauss notified parents last week that the South Jersey school system would begin disabling Chromebooks during hours it believes students should be resting and recovering from the school day. The times at which they would be disabled would vary depending on grade level. Kanauss said the district, which enrolls nearly 4,000 students in K-12, wants to discourage unhealthy behaviors. He said some students are on their district devices well after midnight. In each decision we make, we ask ourselves if we are setting up our students for success, Kanauss wrote in a letter Thursday to parents. We feel this initiative encourages good life habits and supports a great start to each day ... . The new policy immediately drew a flood of responses from parents on social media on the Deptford Talk Facebook page, saying some students are delayed from starting homework because of extracurricular commitments. In response, the district sent a letter to parents Tuesday that its administrative team was reviewing the concerns, and said adjustments may be made to the policy that takes effect March 1. The spirit of this initiative stems from our responsibility to create good digital citizens, which we take seriously. However, we do hear and understand parent and student concerns regarding students non-academic commitments and responsibilities. Ensuring students are receiving an appropriate amount of homework is also very much a part of this plan, Kanauss wrote. Advertisement Under the plan announced last week, school Chromebooks would be disabled from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. for elementary students; 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for middle schoolers, and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. for high schoolers. All Deptford students are given a Chromebook for in-class activities. Students in fourth through 12th grades are allowed to take them home nightly to complete assignments or study for assessments. Schools around the country began relying heavily on Chromebooks and devices to offer remote instruction during the pandemic when schools were abruptly closed. Districts were encouraged to offer a device to each child who needed one to connect to the classroom. READ MORE: Bridging the digital divide for the have and have nots: How schools are meeting the need during remote learning Deptford uses Lightspeed Systems software to help track of how and when students are using their Chromebooks at home and in school. Kanauss said the districts technology has recently noticed an increase in student Chromebook use at night. Kanauss and district spokesperson Salvatore Randazzo did not respond to messages Tuesday seeking comment. Are other districts considering this? It was not immediately known whether other districts have imposed after-hours restrictions for their devices. The New Jersey Department of Education collects data on student devices and internet connection. But Haddonfield Superintendent Chuck Klaus said his district may consider shutting down devices at night, too. Experts recommend limiting students screen time for both educational purposes as well as activities such as playing video games. We also have growing concerns with the amount of screen time and how late many of our students are up working, but we have not ventured down this path, Klaus said. It is an interesting conversation. The Cinnaminson Township School District has discussed limiting access, but has not adopted a policy to disable devices, said Superintendent Stephen Cappello. The district relies on parent partnerships to help determine the appropriate use of technology at home, he said. Collingswood is reviewing its Chromebook practices for the 2024-25 school year in terms of student access and overall usage at school and home, said Superintendent Fred McDowell. The district is not considering restrictions to limit access at night, he said. Staying up too late is a family issue, McDowell said. The new policy prompted concerns and questions from parents. Some said it would be difficult for older students who work or participate in extracurricular activities to complete their homework by 10 p.m. Possibly well-intentioned but also possibly very slippery. Are the Chromebooks the only way to an education in the district? wrote John Cooper. The Lightspeed portal allows parents and the district to remotely track students screen time as well as review websites that students visit. Parents can also set a time to disable the devices. Students can also use their personal devices, laptops and cell phones to access school programs. READ MORE: Poised to spend $5 million to lock up students cell phones, Philly schools pause on the purchase This is a massive mistake, Hannah Mann wrote in a Facebook post. There are all sorts of reasons a child would be up late doing homework. What an incredibly classist decision this was. Most families no longer have a family computer. Brielle Wolf wrote: I love this idea. If children arent getting home until almost the computer-cutoff time due to other activities, then the teachers should be assigning less or NO homework. Said Michelle Whelan: How about let the parents decide on when their kids shouldnt be on the computer? Kanauss said the restrictions would promote better time management for students. It may also help identify students who are overworked with school assignments. Our goal is to ensure all our students academic workload is such that they are able to complete their assignments without sacrificing sleep or experiencing undue stress, he said. Fourth graders Cheyenne Wise (left) and Josiah Forney read during a class last month at Hancock Elementary School in Norristown. Read more As a first grader, Beth Taylors son had struggled to read. But in the years that followed, the Radnor Township School District suggested Taylor shouldnt worry: Her son was close to reading at grade level, meeting the goals set by the district. His main problem, teachers told her, was his behavior: If he would just focus, was the refrain Taylor often heard. By eighth grade, the district determined her son no longer needed support with reading noting adequate scores on reading comprehension tests. But Taylor saw he was still having trouble, as she spent hours at night battling him to complete homework assignments. With the help of an advocate, Taylor asked the district to give her son specific tests that focused on basic reading skills. The findings were very different: As a ninth grader, her son had difficulty sounding out words and was reading at a fourth-grade level somewhere above From Seed to Plant, but below The Little Prince. Advertisement Taylor was stunned that her son was so far behind and that her top-ranked, well-resourced school district hadnt caught it. If this is how its going with my kid, she said, how is it going with any other school district? READ MORE: This is how your kids are being taught to read The push for a new approach to reading Around Philadelphia and nationally, a growing movement of parents and advocates has been challenging whether schools know how to teach a basic skill: how to read. And the roadblock isnt necessarily whether districts have the money to do so. The prevailing approach to teaching reading, for at least several decades, has been grounded in the idea that children can learn to read relatively naturally: Let them immerse themselves in books they choose, with guidance from teachers, and theyll develop a love of reading. Its a method often described as balanced literacy. It can look like that naturalistic child-directed approach is working. But its really failing so many students. Stephanie Stollar, consultant and assistant professor of reading science at Mount St. Joseph University in Ohio But long-standing research into how people learn to read shows it isnt a natural act. Kids need to learn the relationship between sounds and letters to understand written words. While some do intuit this, cracking the code with limited instruction, experts say most dont requiring explicit lessons in phonics and other skills to become good readers. Its like giving a student a piece of sheet music for a Chopin piece, without teaching them what the notes are, how to play a scale, how to position your fingers on the piano, said Stephanie Stollar, a consultant and assistant professor of reading science at Mount St. Joseph University in Ohio. Because some kids can learn to read relatively easily, it can look like that naturalistic child-directed approach is working. But its really failing so many students, Stollar said. Those most at risk: children who dont have language-rich home environments, a prerequisite for learning to read, and children such as Taylors who have learning disabilities and require even more support. As the gap between what science shows and how schools teach has gained increased attention, calls for change have intensified, with advocates for the science of reading pushing laws backing evidence-based reading instruction. While Pennsylvania has started to require that teacher preparation programs include structured literacy the approach embraced by science-of-reading advocates it has not mandated curricula or instruction methods, as other states have. A bill advancing in the legislature aims to create guidelines. READ MORE: Pa. could become the latest state to mandate evidence-based reading instruction And although schools may say theyre teaching structured literacy, it can be difficult to assess those claims, given the complexity of reading instruction. Experts say its about more than just changing curriculum: Its about retraining teachers. Its also about what tests you give to determine whether students have reading challenges, and how you interpret the data as in the case of Taylors son. Not enough schools realize what theyre doing wrong, said Jackie Galbally, an assistant professor and reading interventionist program coordinator at St. Josephs University. A parent in a Main Line district who moved there for the schools, Galbally placed her son in private school after determining that the district had failed to adequately evaluate his needs. Even though we live in a really well-resourced district, I had time, energy, and knowledge to advocate for my son, and I still wasnt being successful at that it sort of enraged me, Galbally said. Plenty of parents dont have any of those affordances, and are blindly trusting the school districts. School districts finding success with structured literacy Districts around Philadelphia say theyve been shifting their approaches to align with the science of reading, away from balanced literacy. The West Chester Area School District, for instance, said it had ditched leveled books that had been used to help struggling readers. The books feature predictable sentence patterns, enabling students to guess words they dont know, rather than sound them out. Fully enacting structured literacy forces educators to acknowledge past errors, said Casandra Jones, a former administrator in the Coatesville Area School District. Teachers go through the grief process, said Jones, who led a shift in the districts reading instruction from 2021 to 2023 and now works in the Kennett Consolidated School District. We used to say: You did the best job you could with the knowledge and resources and constraints you were working under. Until 2021, Coatesville had been using a popular curriculum that came under fire as the science of reading movement gained traction. Units of Study was created by Columbia University professor Lucy Calkins, a leading balanced literacy proponent who emphasized environment, rather than mechanics, as a way to foster childrens love of books. There was a ton of money invested in that programming, and the training associated with it, Jones said. A typically cash-strapped district, Coatesville suddenly had money it could use to change course, thanks to federal COVID relief. But we had to make sure we werent going to make the same mistakes. The district researched and piloted curricula. It also trained reading specialists and special education teachers in LETRS, an intensive professional development program that takes two years and 160 hours to complete. Over two years, the share of Coatesville kindergartners scoring at or above benchmark in reading jumped from 20% to 62%, Jones said. Others seeing gains from structured literacy include Norristown, among a group of districts in Montgomery and Chester Counties participating in an audit of their instruction under a grant secured by State Sen. Katie Muth. Last year, Hancock Elementary in Norristown saw a 23 percentage point increase in first graders scoring at benchmark in sounding out words. But reforming reading instruction is a long game, said Brooke Vaught, the schools principal. Pre-pandemic, Norristown introduced a skills-heavy curriculum for its youngest students; after returning in person a year later, the district trained teachers to better use it. At Hancock, Vaught revamped the schedule to provide larger blocks of time for English language arts. Science-of-reading advocates are quick to note its not just about phonics. Norristown this year adopted an English language arts program with higher-level content. The goal is building background knowledge, so that when children begin to read more advanced text, they understand what it means. Teachers had questioned whether the material might be too advanced, but Vaught said kids are getting it. She recently observed fourth graders learning about the circulatory system, able to identify the valves of the heart, she said. Im listening to them in amazement. Battles behind closed doors In some suburban districts, frustration has been mounting among parents of struggling readers. Numerous parents told The Inquirer they became aware of the debate over reading instruction through a popular podcast launched in 2022, Sold a Story, that investigated how curriculum companies pushed dubious teaching methods. Battles over reading in these communities have been playing out largely in closed-door meetings, as parents of children with disabilities have filed complaints against their districts to get compensation for reading tutors and other services including tuition at AIM Academy, the Conshohocken school for children with language-based learning differences. Those who reach settlements are required to sign nondisclosure agreements, preventing them from discussing their cases. Others, such as Kelly Volpe, sit for official hearings. Volpe, a parent in the Spring-Ford Area School District, sought reimbursement for services for her 7-year-old daughter, Beatrice, who has language and learning impairments. I just knew she was struggling, and she was slowly imploding. Kelly Volpe, who transferred her daughter from the Spring-Ford Area School District to AIM Academy for first grade Volpe noticed her daughter wasnt picking up letter names or sounds in prekindergarten as her older siblings had. She began seeing a structured literacy tutor, for $60 an hour. For kindergarten, she attended both Spring-Fords half-day program and a half-day private kindergarten, which cost $330 a week, for added repetition. Diagnoses of her daughters impairments came after Volpe spent more than $8,000 on evaluations from specialists. I just knew she was struggling, and she was slowly imploding, said Volpe, who transferred her daughter to AIM for first grade, at a cost of more than $41,000 a year. At AIM, Beatrice has made noticeable progress, and her mental health has improved, said Volpe, who declined to comment on the districts handling of her daughters struggles, on the advice of her lawyer. Spring-Ford didnt respond to requests for comment. The fact that parents who can afford it get tutoring and other help can mask how many kids are struggling, said Kate Mayer, an advocate who cofounded a group called Everyone Reads PA. A parent who lives in the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District, Mayer and other mothers began advocating for better reading instruction there in 2017. School districts always want to remain the expert, even though we have all this information about how none of us educators were taught the right way, said Mayer, who is certified in teaching structured literacy. Mayer has since connected with hundreds of parents across the region concerned about their childrens reading, she said, providing screenings and representing families who have been savvy enough to get the protection of an IEP an individualized education plan for addressing a students disabilities in meetings with administrators. Among them are families in the Council Rock School District, where three parents told The Inquirer they believed that the district had failed to properly address their childrens reading and language deficits. Im going to be paying out of pocket to have her tutored by somebody, said one parent of a child at Maureen M. Welch Elementary School. The parent asked not to be identified to avoid jeopardizing relationships with the childs teachers: This is bigger than them. In a letter voicing concerns to Council Rock administrators last month, Mayer noted that despite being a high-performing district, almost 30% of Council Rock students werent proficient in English language arts on Pennsylvanias standardized tests. A Council Rock spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. In an email newsletter to parents last month, the district said it had adopted new curricula this year, including a program for K-2 students anchored in the science of reading. All these years they werent real goals Taylor, the mother in Radnor, discovered her older sons reading struggles after Mayer helped her younger son, Elijah, with reading difficulties. As Taylor mentioned behavioral problems she was noticing in her older son, Mayer suggested Taylor ask the district to reevaluate him. The trouble Taylors son had reading words hadnt shown up on comprehension tests because he was able to compensate in other ways, such as guessing. (He had demonstrated that tactic in the testing, evaluators noted, guessing anonymous for autonomous and chore for choir.) All these years, all the goals you said he met? They werent real goals, Taylor said. Radnor didnt respond to questions about Taylors sons, but said in a statement it had a structured literacy approach we use as part of our reading curriculum. Taylor, who has two children who graduated from Radnor years earlier with positive experiences, has lost confidence in the district. She transferred both her sons to AIM Academy and has since sought reimbursement from Radnor. I have to pay now for the damage youve done, she said. The weather might be cold, but we can report that the Philly nightlife scene is hot. Also this week, we explore Insomnia Cookies new flagship store, ask chefs what they like to order at Parc, and bring you a Craig LaBan review of two boundary-pushing restaurants. Want new restaurants? How about two dozen more on the way soon. Mike Klein If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. Deep winter usually heralds the doldrums for the restaurant industry, but so far it hasnt dimmed Phillys crackling bar scene. Thats Almyra in the photo above. Among the latest openings are Philadelphias first Black-owned brewery, a subterranean lounge/nightclub that cost $8 million, and a 12-seat bar reserved for walk-ins inside Dizengoff. Read on for Jenn Ladds look at Philly nightlife. Chefs in residence: Alejandro Martin Sanchez and Diana Widjojo Residencies seem to be the big new thing. Theyre an economical way to do a proof of concept. 1. Chef Alejandro Martin Sanchez (shown above) is introducing Mesona, an upscale tasting-menu restaurant featuring cuisine similar to what you find at Mexico Citys Pujol and Quintonil, with an eight-week residency at South Phillys Taco Heart (1001 E. Passyunk Ave.) from Feb. 29-April 20. Advertisement Sanchez, most recently executive chef at Mission Taqueria, will do six-course BYOB dinners at one 12-seat table, along with a few seats at a chefs counter overlooking the kitchen, after Taco Hearts regular hours Thursdays through Saturdays. Dinner is $110, tax included. The opening menu features squash chochoyote (masa dumplings) with uni, frijol, and blanco; tostada of mussels, adobados, tangerine chutney, roe; smoked eggplant with chichilo negro, and kefir; lobster with carrot tatemado, and turmeric; mole anisado with shiso, plantain, cafe; and a dessert of guava, hibiscus, au jus, rose. Book it here. 2. Chef Diana Widjojo, formerly of Hardena, will reprise her Rice & Sambal Indonesian concept at chef Joncarl Lachmans Dankbaar (1911 E. Passyunk Ave.) starting March 14 with seatings Thursday to Saturday. Theres a six-course prix-fixe dinner with vegan alternatives ($85), a family-style Rijsttafel service on Saturdays ($100), and an Indonesian coffee program. Among possible dishes on the fixed-price menu are siomai (dumplings), pepes ikan (steamed herbed mackerel, wrapped and grilled in banana leaf); and bebek madura (duck breast confit, blackened spice paste, fresh salad, and soursop dressing). This is an extended engagement (e.g. no end date has been specified). Tables can be booked via Resy. 3. Viraj Thomas of the itinerant Char Pizza has come in from the cold with a residency through Saturday at Paffuto (1009 S. Eighth St., South Philadelphia). He serves 4-9 p.m. Insomnia Cookies new headquarters, which includes its flagship store, has opened at Broad and Chestnut Streets in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. Ariana Perez-Castells writes that customers sometimes will be asked to head upstairs to help out with research and dough-velopment. Phillys Mexican scene is pushing the boundaries not just the geographical ones but in culinary ways. Craig LaBan heads to the new Tamalex location in Society Hill and La Ingrata in Camden to find a new generation of excellence. Scoop Bryan and Andrea Sikora, whose restaurants on the Pennsylvania and Delaware sides of the Brandywine Valley include Hearth Kitchen, Merchant Bar, La Fia, and Crow Bar, are opening in Downingtown. The Noble Goat will be located in the new River Station development, offering an eclectic menu with a serious cocktail program. No timeline yet beyond summer. (The Noble Goat is not to be confused with The Goats Beard, now building its third location at Spring Mill Creative Campus in Conshohocken.) Read on for news of more than a dozen restaurants on the way soon, including Mona, a splashy Mediterranean spot coming to 13th and Chestnut Streets on multiple levels. Restaurant report Rhythm & Spirits new Center City Philadelphia location is in the shadow of City Hall. Not only will it serve breakfast through dinnertime, it will have a chocolate speakeasy. Pho Skyline. Friends and restaurant veterans Kiet Trinh and Vincent Tran, having run an online Vietnamese food service, have made their brick-and-mortar debut in a bright and Spartan 24-seat storefront next to Roxanne in the Italian Market. Trinh didnt have to go far to find the chef: She is his mother, Nhan Tran, who emigrated from what was South Vietnam eight years ago. Her cooking is traditional in the 20-plus soups and pho dishes, including a warming bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup, shown above) and bun rieu cua (the crab noodle soup). They offer traditional beverages as well, including sea salt iced coffee, bubble milk tea, and egg soda. Ive snagged the menu for you (in two photos here and here). So far, delivery business has been brisk. Pho Skyline, 910 Christian St. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. One step up into dining room. Briefly noted You may opt for the frites at Parc. Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme asked some restaurant folks what their go-to dishes are at the Rittenhouse destination. Les Dames dEscoffier, the philanthropic society of women in the food and beverage business, has two events open to the public: The first is Sunday from 12:30-2 p.m. at Cliveden in Germantown, where Angela Johnson will offer a Black History Month-themed program called Memory, Hope and Resistance, celebrating the voices of the formerly enslaved with readings. The $30 tab includes lunch. The second event is March 12, when Aliza Green hosts at Center Citys Winkel in conjunction with chef Joncarl Lachman to showcase her new book, Arubas Papiamento Cuisine. Proceeds will benefit the Dames scholarship fund, and ticket info ($125 to $230) can be found here. Pop quiz Stephen Starrs new Italian restaurant on the former site of the Barnes & Noble bookstore at Rittenhouse Square has a tentative name. What is it? A) Stephanos Pasta Bar B) Pspghetti C) Borromini D) Attaccabrighe Find out if you know the answer. Ask Mike anything Whats up with Fiore Rosso in Bryn Mawr? Marc Vetri is out? Mario Hes been out since September. Heres the synopsis: Backed by investors, Marc Vetri and Jeff Benjamin opened Fiore Rosso in summer 2022, with chef Jesse Grossman out front. Last summer, Vetri and Benjamin with other fish to fry and pasta to twirl moved on. Grossman now runs Fiore Rosso with general manager Iva Bruni, who previously managed Giuseppe & Sons in Center City. The assistant general manager, Ricky Rodriguez, has started what theyre calling a wine society, basically an in-house program dedicated to Italian wines. Have a question about food in Philly? E-mail your questions to me at mklein@inquirer.com for a chance to be featured in my newsletter. By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10. For four years, Philadelphias Fair Workweek law has given retail and hospitality workers a mechanism to hold large employers to account. The city law mandates that companies with either 250 or more employees or 30-plus locations worldwide give workers predictable schedules, pay, and other rights. Since the law took effect in April 2020, complaints have been brought against companies like Target, Walmart, and Ruths Chris with some being forced to pay tens of thousands of dollars in damages for violations. Another major employer will now face scrutiny as 12 Philadelphia workers recently filed Fair Workweek complaints against Starbucks. The workers, spread out across five different Starbucks locations in the city, are all represented by Starbucks Workers United, which assisted them in the filings. The complaints variously allege that Starbucks did not provide good faith estimates of employees schedules, provided schedules with significant changes from good faith estimates, failed to offer new work hours to existing employees before hiring new employees, failed to deliver predictability pay for schedule changes, and retaliated against employees for exercising their rights, among other violations. In response to the complaints, Starbucks said that it knows the value of consistent scheduling and predictable hours and that it has worked to build regular schedules that reflect employees preferred hours as well as customer demand. It also allows workers to view and pick up additional shifts at their home store and within their district. Advertisement READ MORE: Local 80, Phillys barista union, calls for Ultimo Coffee boycott We make every effort and have invested significant resources to ensure partner scheduling practices are in alignment with local Fair Workweek ordinances, a spokesperson said in a statement. How can it be that a company doing business in our city can blatantly disregard our laws and keep delaying and avoiding justice? said Workers United president and Philadelphia Joint Board manager Lynne Fox in a statement. Workers should not be retaliated against for enforcing their rights. The Philadelphia complaints are part of a concerted strategy by Starbucks Workers United, which represents nearly 400 union stores around the country. Ten fair workweek complaints against Starbucks were filed in Chicago on Wednesday, and in New York City the union has filed a total of 76 complaints against the company on behalf of employees at 56 stores. Starbucks workers have made it very clear that theyre not going to back down and will use every tool they have to try to make Starbucks a better place to work, from fighting for a fair contract to holding the coffee giant accountable to our citys Fair Workweek laws, a Workers United spokesperson said. Two of the workers who filed complaints, Lucas Reyes and Valerie Molina, expressed frustration at respective circumstances in which their work hours were drastically cut. Reyes worked at the 3400 Civic Center Blvd. Starbucks, better known as Penn Medicine Starbucks, one of the busiest in the region, from June 2023 until last month. He said he saw his hours drop from 30 to 40 per week earlier in his tenure there to between 10 and 20 hours in December and January a change he suspects was due to enthusiastic union involvement. One week I had 13 hours, Reyes said. It was unrealistic for me to keep up my visitations to my son in Virginia, and I just couldnt take anymore also mentally, because I was struggling to pay rent. Faced with those hurdles, as well as the stress that comes with working in a high-volume store, Reyes quit Starbucks a month ago, though he remains involved in the union. Thats how he first learned about the citys policies around predictability in scheduling and pay. At Penn Medicine [Starbucks], it is very common for people, including myself, to get demoralized, to feel helpless, Reyes said. But I found that, No, I can actually do something about this, and I cant continue to be afraid like this. This is not what I want for myself, so I decided to file that complaint. Five other Penn Medicine Starbucks employees joined Reyes in doing so. Molina, who works at the Starbucks at 22nd and South, said she was taken off the schedule in February after she called out sick using banked sick time over a period of days in January. She said a leave of absence request was also filed by her manager without her knowledge or consent; when she confronted her manager about the request, she was told it was filed for her own benefit. Im losing nearly a months worth of work, Molina said. This didnt benefit me in any way. Molina also learned of her rights under Phillys Fair Workweek law through the union. Following the filing, she and other coworkers are planning to air their grievances to their store manager in person. What I hope happens from this is that, together, we make Starbucks a good place to work again, she said. Since the first Starbucks unionized in Buffalo in 2021, it has been joined by 390 others. There are nine unionized Starbucks in Philadelphia, including the five stores represented in the Fair Workweek complaints. The company has racked up hundreds of cases with the National Labor Relations Board in the past three years, with NLRB judges finding it broke federal labor laws 130 instances. Starbucks has yet to sign a first contract with any of the store unions. Local 80, the nearly 2-year-old food service union that represents employees at various independent coffee shops in Philadelphia, is calling for a boycott of Ultimo Coffee beginning today. The boycott comes a week after unionized Ultimo employees publicly authorized a strike, and a week before the unions next bargaining session with the cafes owners. Ultimos four Philadelphia cafes unionized in late 2022. Owners Aaron and Elizabeth Ultimo and union employees have been negotiating a tentative first contract for just over a year. In January, employees at the Germantown and Graduate Hospital shops moved to decertify their unions, leaving just 12 workers represented under two Ultimo unions at the Newbold and Rittenhouse cafes. Local 80 is encouraging customers to suspend their use of Ultimo Coffee products until owners settle a contract with their workers, according to a release. We are disappointed that the Union has chosen to attack our small business, where we guarantee our employees earn a minimum of $20/hour with tips, and they make an average of more than $25/hour, the Ultimos said in a statement. The parties have barely begun to negotiate the economic portion of the contract. We have already agreed to benefits that Local 80 ratified in a contract with another unionized coffee company. We look forward to coming to an agreement on all remaining proposals as soon as possible. Besides Ultimo, Local 80 represents unions at Elixr, ReAnimator, and Vibrant Coffee Roasters,where workers only recently began negotiating a first contract. The Elixr and ReAnimator unions both ratified respective first contracts in the last two months, shortly after the workers at each outfit authorized strikes. Emily Hollenbeck, a deep brain stimulation therapy patient, demonstrates an EEG device that records brain activity as she reacts to short videos at Mount Sinais Q-Lab in New York last year. Read more This story contains references to suicide. If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, call or text 988. NEW YORK Emily Hollenbeck lived with a deep, recurring depression she likened to a black hole, where gravity felt so strong and her limbs so heavy she could barely move. She knew the illness could kill her. Both of her parents had taken their lives. She was willing to try something extreme: Having electrodes implanted in her brain as part of an experimental therapy. Researchers say the treatment called deep brain stimulation, or DBS could eventually help many of the nearly 3 million Americans like her with depression that resists other treatments. Its approved for conditions such as Parkinsons disease and epilepsy, and many doctors and patients hope it will become more widely available for depression soon. Advertisement The treatment gives patients targeted electrical impulses, much like a pacemaker for the brain. A growing body of recent research is promising, with more underway although two large studies that showed no advantage to using DBS for depression temporarily halted progress, and some scientists continue to raise concerns. READ MORE: What to know about 988, a new national mental health hotline Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration has agreed to speed up its review of Abbott Laboratories' request to use its DBS devices for treatment-resistant depression. At first I was blown away because the concept of it seems so intense. Like, its brain surgery. You have wires embedded in your brain, said Hollenbeck, who is part of ongoing research at Mount Sinai West. But I also felt like at that point I tried everything, and I was desperate for an answer. Nothing else was working Hollenbeck suffered from depression symptoms as a child growing up in poverty and occasional homelessness. But her first major bout happened in college, after her fathers suicide in 2009. Another hit during a Teach for America stint, leaving her almost immobilized and worried shed lose her classroom job and sink into poverty again. She landed in the hospital. I ended up having sort of an on-and-off pattern, she said. After responding to medication for a while, she'd relapse. She managed to earn a doctorate in psychology, even after losing her mom in her last year of grad school. But the black hole always returned to pull her in. At times, she said, she thought about ending her life. She said she'd exhausted all options, including electroconvulsive therapy, when a doctor told her about DBS three years ago. Nothing else was working, she said. She became one of only a few hundred treated with DBS for depression. Hollenbeck had the brain surgery while sedated but awake. Dr. Brian Kopell, who directs Mount Sinai's Center for Neuromodulation, placed thin metal electrodes in a region of her brain called the subcallosal cingulate cortex, which regulates emotional behavior and is involved in feelings of sadness. The electrodes are connected by an internal wire to a device placed under the skin in her chest, which controls the amount of electrical stimulation and delivers constant low-voltage pulses. Hollenbeck calls it continuous Prozac. READ MORE: Depression can get better. These four Philadelphians are living proof. Doctors say the stimulation helps because electricity speaks the brains language. Neurons communicate using electrical and chemical signals. In normal brains, Kopell said, electrical activity reverberates unimpeded in all areas, in a sort of dance. In depression, the dancers get stuck within the brains emotional circuitry. DBS seems to unstick the circuit, he said, allowing the brain to do what it normally would. Hollenbeck said the effect was almost immediate. The first day after surgery, she started feeling a lifting of that negative mood, of the heaviness, said her psychiatrist, Dr. Martijn Figee. I remember her telling me that she was able to enjoy Vietnamese takeout for the first time in years and really taste the food. She started to decorate her home, which had been completely empty since she moved to New York. For Hollenbeck, the most profound change was finding pleasure in music again. When I was depressed, I couldnt listen to music. It sounded and felt like I was listening to radio static, she said. Then on a sunny day in the summer, I was walking down the street listening to a song. I just felt this buoyancy, this, Oh, I want to walk more, I want to go and do things! And I realized Im getting better. She only wishes the therapy had been there for her parents. The treatments history The road to this treatment stretches back two decades, when neurologist Dr. Helen Mayberg led promising early research. But setbacks followed. Large studies launched more than a dozen years ago showed no significant difference in response rates for treated and untreated groups. Dr. Katherine Scangos, a psychiatrist at the University of California, San Francisco, also researching DBS and depression, cited a couple of reasons: The treatment wasnt personalized, and researchers looked at outcomes over a matter of weeks. Some later research showed depression patients had stable, long-term relief from DBS when observed over years. Overall, across different brain targets, DBS for depression is associated with average response rates of 60%, one 2022 study said. Treatments being tested by various teams are much more tailored to individuals today. Mount Sinai's team is one of the most prominent researching DBS for depression in the U.S. There, a neuroimaging expert uses brain images to locate the exact spot for Kopell to place electrodes. We have a template, a blueprint of exactly where were going to go, said Mayberg, a pioneer in DBS research and founding director of The Nash Family Center for Advanced Circuit Therapeutics at Mount Sinai. Everybodys brain is a little different, just like peoples eyes are a little further apart or a nose is a little bigger or smaller. Other research teams also tailor treatment to patients, although their methods are slightly different. Scangos and her colleagues are studying various targets in the brain and delivering stimulation only when needed for severe symptoms. She said the best therapy may end up being a combination of approaches. As teams keep working, Abbott is launching a big clinical trial this year, ahead of a potential FDA decision. The field is advancing quite quickly, Scangos said. Im hoping we will have approval within a short time. But some doctors are skeptical, pointing to potential complications such as bleeding, stroke or infection after surgery. Dr. Stanley Caroff, an emeritus professor of psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, said scientists still don't know the exact pathways or mechanisms in the brain that produce depression, which is why it's hard to pick a site to stimulate. It's also tough to select the right patients for DBS, he said, and approved, successful treatments for depression are available. I believe from a psychiatric point of view, the science is not there, he said of DBS for depression. Moving forward Hollenbeck acknowledges DBS hasn't been a cure-all; she still takes medicines for depression and needs ongoing care. She recently visited Mayberg in her office and discussed recovery. Its not about being happy all the time, the doctor told her. Its about making progress. Thats what researchers are studying now how to track progress. Recent research by Mayberg and others in the journal Nature showed it's possible to provide a "readout" of how someone is doing at any given time. Analyzing the brain activity of DBS patients, researchers found a unique pattern that reflects the recovery process. This gives them an objective way to observe how people get better and distinguish between impending depression and typical mood fluctuations. Scientists are confirming those findings using newer DBS devices in a group of patients that includes Hollenbeck. She and other participants do their part largely at home. She gives researchers regular brain recordings by logging onto a tablet, putting a remote above the pacemaker-like device in her chest and sending the data. She answers questions that pop up about how she feels. Then she records a video that will be analyzed for things such as facial expression and speech. Occasionally, she goes into Mount Sinais Q-Lab, an immersive environment where scientists do quantitative research collecting all sorts of data, including how she moves in a virtual forest or makes circles in the air with her arms. Like many other patients, she moves her arms faster now that shes doing better. Data from recordings and visits are combined with other information, such as life events, to chart how she's doing. This helps guide doctors decisions, such as whether to increase her dose of electricity which they did once. On a recent morning, Hollenbeck moved her collar and brushed her hair aside to reveal scars on her chest and head from her DBS surgery. To her, they're signs of how far shes come. She makes her way around the city, taking walks in the park and going to libraries, which were a refuge in childhood. She no longer worries that normal life challenges will trigger a crushing depression. The stress is pretty extreme at times, but Im able to see and remember, even on a bodily level, that Im going to be OK, she said. If I hadnt had DBS, Im pretty sure I would not be alive today. Joel Austin, founder and CEO of Daddy University Inc., poses with his daughter, Maryam Rahman, at the annual Daddy Daughter Dance. Read more Joel Austin spends his days talking to Black fathers about how to become the parents they aspire to be at Daddy University Inc., a Philadelphia-based nonprofit that he founded two decades ago. In recent years, Austin has noticed that Black fathers in his male-parenting education programs increasingly say theyre grappling with how to talk to their teens about mental health. They also want strategies for helping them cope with racism. You have these dads who were raised to hold it all in who are raising teens who are taught to let it all out, Austin said. How do we get them on the same level? Austin, whose youngest child is 17, is now working to bridge that divide with the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphias Center for Parent and Teen Communication (CPTC), which draws from academic research to help parents successfully raise teenagers. Advertisement The partnership will draw from the experiences of Philadelphian Black fathers and teens, ages 12 to 17, to create educational and coping tools surrounding mental health problems and racial inequities. To launch the pilot project, Austin and Jillian Baker, CPTCs executive director, received last month a two-year grant of up to $40,000 from CHOP PolicyLab, a center focused on translating academic research into community programs. The pandemic exacerbated feelings of anxiety and depression among teens, particularly among Black teens who have the added stress of navigating racial tensions in the wake of the 2020 murder of George Floyd. Recent research shows that teens who experience racial discrimination are more likely to suffer from poor mental health, decreased self-esteem, and an increase in risky behaviors, such as alcohol and drug use. Rates of suicide among Black teens have risen faster than in any other racial and ethnic group in the past two decades. Black children in early adolescence are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to their white peers, according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Research also shows that Black teens with highly engaged and involved fathers enjoy higher levels of academic achievement, improved mental health, and fewer behavior problems. I want to prove that [Black] dads are solutions. And thats a very strong S word, Austin said. Fathers are an ingredient that we miss. A partnership is born Baker and Austin came up with the idea to marry their expertise after he made a guest appearance on a 2023 episode of Bakers podcast, Maternal Health 911, to talk about the impact of Black fathers. Austin told Baker that many dads say they feel uncomfortable opening up to their children about their own experiences with mental health problems as teens. A lot of us were not raised to tell all of our truths, Austin said. Baker knew from her own experience that many Black parents raising teens had grown up when there was a stigma around discussing mental health. At age 10, Baker told her mom that she wanted to see a therapist. You are not crazy and so you dont need therapy, Baker said her mom told her. Now Baker hopes the project will change the narrative, so seeking help is seen as a strength and not a weakness. The project will start later this year by bringing together two advisory groups one made up of eight teens and the other with eight fathers, all from Philadelphia to talk about communication barriers. A focus group of 30 Black fathers will convene in the second year to help develop online resources to share more broadly. The parenting power of Black dads In movies and television, Black fathers are often portrayed as absent or not involved. But research shows the opposite. Compared to white and Hispanic fathers, Black dads more often bathe, diaper, dress, and toilet train their children. Thats true whether Black fathers live with their children or separately, according to a 2013 National Health Statistics report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Black fathers who dont reside with their children help them with their homework at higher rates than their Hispanic and white counterparts, the report shows. Black fathers excel at helping their sons navigate stressful encounters, steer clear of violence, and avoid escalating interactions with law enforcement. Black fathers also play a key role in boosting their daughters self-esteem and teaching them how to handle bullying, research shows. As women took on more expansive roles in the workplace, men have also taken on new roles with child-rearing. So you ended up with 280-pound, 6-foot-4 men sitting down with their daughters in a very small chair and sipping tea out of a small little cup and actually enjoying it, Austin said. Baker, a mother of three, has observed how close her 12-year-old daughter, Jemma, is to her father. She talks to him more than she talks to me, Baker said. Her relationship with her dad is more important than her relationship with me for her development as a young woman. It will affect her choices with future partners. Jemmas twin brother, 12-year-old Gavin, is often more receptive to advice from his father, too. A seventh-grader in a mostly white school district in South Jersey, Gavin recently told his parents that he felt like he didnt belong. Theres no one who really understands me, Baker recalled her son saying. But youre such a cool, smart kid, Baker replied. Gavins father, Gamal Baker, had advice that seemed to resonate better: Right now is going to be one of the hardest times in your life. Be authentic to yourself. Dont change to fit in. You will find your tribe. I felt belittled Austin said he started Daddy University in 2004 out of anger. Austin and his then-wife were expecting their first child. He got upset when obstetricians, pediatricians, and teachers to his children repeatedly treated him like the Uber driver present, but not included. Austin recalled being left to sit in the waiting room with one of his children at the pediatricians office because the front-desk staffer thought his wife was on her way. I felt disrespected, and I felt belittled, he said. The worst part about being a Black father is you feel constant invisibility. In 2006, Austin created the National Fatherhood Conference, a full-day of training, workshops, and speakers on male parenting and mentorship. Each year, the conference attracts more than 1,000 attendees from at least eight states. In 2013, he created the Annual Daddy Daughter Dance, which helps foster an emotional bond between fathers and their daughters. More recently, in 2019, he created the Doulas 4 Dads program, which trains male doulas to work in their community. Austin also travels the nation speaking to dads about how to be more involved in their childrens lives both inside and outside the home. Now the father of 11 children, ages 17 to 29, Austin believes his partnership with Bakers Center for Parent and Teen Communication will confirm what hes known all along: Fathers have this power to influence their children in a positive way, he said. I know it in my soul and heart. What we are going to do is prove it. At left is Marita Crawford, former political director Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Worker, arriving for sentencing at the U.S. Courthouse in Reading on Wednesday. A federal judge sentenced her to 15 days behind bars, followed by three months of house arrest. Read more READING The woman who, with labor leader John Dougherty, helped transform Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers into the states most politically powerful labor union was sentenced to 15 days behind bars Wednesday for stealing from the workers whose interests shed been hired to represent. Marita Crawford served as the unions political director for roughly a decade before pleading guilty to wire fraud charges in 2022 and agreeing to repay nearly $12,000 spent over several years on expenses such as hotel stays, hair and makeup services, birthday dinners for herself and Dougherty. But although prosecutors blamed Dougherty for directing her to charge many of those expenses to Local 98 credit cards, Crawford, at a hearing before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Schmehl, maintained that the blame was hers alone. Ive been told over and over that I was put in a bad situation at the union and others are responsible for my conduct, she told the judge. Im here to say thats not true. I made the mistake, and I alone take responsibility. Advertisement READ MORE: John Dougherty union embezzlement case: Day-by-day updates Schmehl acknowledged Crawfords contrition and credited her accomplishments as a single mother working in the male-dominated worlds of labor unions and politics. Still, given her leadership position in Local 98, she deserved some time behind bars for her crimes, he said. In addition to the term of incarceration, the judge ordered Crawford, 54, to serve three months house arrest and pay more than $14,000 in fines and restitution to the union. You did hold a position of power within the union, he said. The fellow members of IBEW trusted you, they relied on you, and you let them down. Crawfords sentence makes her the second Local 98 official to get prison time for what prosecutors have described as a large-scale embezzlement scheme led by Dougherty, who served as Local 98s business manager for nearly 30 years. In all, he, Crawford and five others have been convicted of siphoning a total of more than $600,000 between 2010 and 2016 that went to items such as restaurant meals and home repairs as well as more mundane items such as groceries, diapers, and Christmas decorations. READ MORE: Whos who in former labor leader John Doughertys union embezzlement case Schmehl sentenced Local 98s former head of apprentice training, Michael Neill, to 13 months in prison on Tuesday roughly half of the up to two years prosecutors had been seeking. The sentence the judge gave Crawford on Wednesday also fell on the low end of a prison term of up to six months that government lawyers recommended. Her lawyer, Fortunato Perri Jr., had pushed for probation. Union members relied on her to give political power to their collective voices, and they paid her hundreds of thousands of dollars to do it, Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Carissimi said. Nevertheless, she stole from them. Though Crawford did not testify against Dougherty at either of his two felony trials his first, a 2021 bribery case alongside former City Councilmember Bobby Henon, and his second, which wrapped in December with his conviction in the embezzlement scheme her voice, caught on dozens of wiretaps, was a frequent presence throughout both. Prosecutors played hours of recorded conversations for jurors revealing her as a close confidant to Dougherty, with whom she was romantically involved at the time, and a go-to ally in advancing and sometimes enforcing Local 98s considerable political clout. Together, they helped shape their union into a political juggernaut with a track record of propelling dozens of allies into elected office. That list includes mayors such as former Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, City Council members such as Henon as well as county commissioners, members of Congress, state lawmakers, governors, and judges such as the union leaders brother, Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Kevin Dougherty. It was Crawford, Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Costello said in court papers leading up to Wednesdays sentencing, who served as the primary messenger delivering Doughertys demands to Henon throughout their bribery scheme. John is the boss, she told one City Hall political operative in a November 2015 call played at his first trial. Thats it. Prosecutors opted not to charge Crawford in that political corruption case, despite referring to her in court papers as an unindicted coconspirator with Dougherty and Henon. They focused instead on the expenses she billed to union accounts including $2,500 in gift cards to the clothing store Boyds that she bought for Dougherty, birthday dinners worth hundreds of dollars, and more than $500 in beauty services at the Manhattan Waldorf Astoria. Crawford also admitted to misspending nearly $500 from the political action committee of South Philadelphias First Democratic Ward over which Dougherty held considerable sway on a 2016 birthday dinner for herself. READ MORE: Johnny Doc is accused of spending thousands on his friends and family with Local 98 money. Heres what prosecutors say he bought. She apologized for those crimes Wednesday, saying shed become caught up in trying to prove herself. It has not been easy working in the male-dominated world of the building trades, she said. I felt pressure to work harder and to a higher standard than my male colleagues. I became lost in trying to prove myself. I wanted to be the first woman to do it, and I wanted to do it best. The case against her, she said, left her humiliated. As she awaited Schmehls decision, Crawford nervously moved about the courtroom, hugging and quietly thanking the half-dozen people who had shown up to support her. She appeared visibly upset as the judge announced shed be headed to prison. A family member seated in the gallery hung his head in his hands. But others, whod written letters to the judge or come to testify on her behalf Wednesday, insisted that Crawford had plenty to be proud of in her career one shes continued to pursue as a consultant to political campaigns since resigning from Local 98 in 2022. She hasnt just helped union members, shes helped every single working man and woman in Pennsylvania, said Robert Bair, president of the Pennsylvania Building Trades Council, an umbrella organization of labor unions across the state. The legislation and policy that Ms. Crawford helped pass props up the right to a good job, retirement, living wages, and health care for everyone. Dougherty is scheduled to face sentencing in May. His former driver and personal assistant, Niko Rodriguez, is scheduled for sentencing Thursday. Protesters stand with posters at the Royal Courts of Justice entrance in London on Wednesday. Read more LONDON WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange wont find out until next month at the earliest whether he can challenge extradition to the U.S. on spying charges, or if his long legal battle in Britain has run out of road. Two High Court judges said Wednesday they would take time to consider their verdict after a two-day hearing in which Assanges lawyers argued sending him to the United States would risk a flagrant denial of justice. Attorneys for the U.S., where Assange has been indicted on espionage charges, said he put innocent lives at risk and went beyond journalism in his bid to solicit, steal and indiscriminately publish classified U.S. government documents. Assanges lawyers asked the High Court to grant him a new appeal his last roll of the legal dice in the saga that has kept him in a British high-security prison for the past five years. Advertisement The judges overseeing the case reserved their decision, and a ruling on Assanges future is not expected until March at the earliest. If judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition though supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the U.S. before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. The 52-year-old Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his websites publication of a trove of classified U.S. documents almost 15 years ago. American prosecutors allege Assange encouraged and helped U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks published, putting lives at risk. Lawyer Clair Dobbin, representing the U.S. government, said Wednesday that Assange damaged U.S. security and intelligence services and created a grave and imminent risk by releasing the hundreds of thousands of documents risks that could harm and lead to the arbitrary detention of innocent people, many of whom lived in war zones or under repressive regimes. Dobbin added that in encouraging Manning and others to hack into government computers and steal from them, Assange was going a very considerable way beyond a journalist gathering information. Assange was not someone who has just set up an online box to which people can provide classified information, she said. The allegations are that he sought to encourage theft and hacking that would benefit WikiLeaks. Assanges supporters maintain he is a secrecy-busting journalist who exposed U.S. military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have long argued that the prosecution is politically motivated and he wont get a fair trial in the U.S. Assanges lawyers argued on the first day of the hearing on Tuesday that American authorities are seeking to punish him for WikiLeaks exposure of criminality on the part of the U.S. government on an unprecedented scale, including torture and killings. Lawyer Edward Fitzgerald said there is a real risk he may suffer a flagrant denial of justice if he is sent to the U.S. Dobbin said the prosecution is based on law and evidence, and has remained consistent despite the changes of government in the U.S. during the legal battle. She added that the First Amendment does not confer immunity on journalists who break the law. Media outlets that went through the process of redacting the documents before publishing them are not being prosecuted, she said. Assanges lawyers say he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence is likely to be much shorter. Assange was absent from court on both days because he is unwell, WikiLeaks said. Stella Assange, his wife, said he had wanted to attend, but was not in good condition. Assanges family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Julian is a political prisoner and he has to be released, said Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022. Theyre putting Julian into the hands of the country and of the people who plotted his assassination, she added, referring to unproven claims by Assanges lawyers that he was a target of a CIA plot to kidnap or kill him while he was in the Ecuadorian Embassy. Supporters holding Free Julian Assange signs and chanting there is only one decision no extradition protested outside the High Court building for a second day. Assanges legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A U.K. district court judge rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the U.S. about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. Andrew Wilkie, an Australian lawmaker who attended the hearing, said he hoped that sent a strong message to the U.K. and U.S. governments to end the legal fight. This has gone on long enough, he said. Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court voted 4-3 last week to uphold Philadelphias ordinance prohibiting the manufacturing and assembling of 3D-printed gun parts used to create ghost guns. The majority-decision of the appellate court filed Friday said that Philadelphias ordinance, as amended in January 2021, did not violate the state constitutions gun-ownership protections and a 1996 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling that state lawmakers have sole authority over firearm laws, meaning that local jurisdictions, such as Philadelphia, cannot pass their own contradicting laws. The challenge to the ordinance was filed in May 2021 by Gun Owners of America Inc., Gun Owners Foundation, and four Philadelphia gun owners. A Philadelphia Common Pleas Court Judge in September 2022 sided with the city. The Commonwealth Court decision affirmed the lower courts ruling. In the majority opinion, Judge Ellen Ceisler wrote that Philadelphias ordinance does not regulate firearms, but rather merely prohibits the conversion of unfinished frames or receivers into firearms, as well as the use of certain manufacturing processes to create firearms from scratch, and bars the purchase, sale, or transfer of certain kinds of parts and machinery for purposes of those activities. Advertisement Ceisler added: To state the obvious, none of those parts, machinery, or manufacturing processes constitute firearms under state law or the citys ordinance. Judge Patricia A. McCullough wrote in a dissent that the ordinance plainly targets firearm possession and regulates firearm component parts that, practically speaking, could readily be converted into firearms. McCullough added: In short, if a local ordinance, resolution, or executive order looks like a firearm regulation and walks like a firearm regulation, it is a firearm regulation and is preempted. No amount of artful drafting, fancy definitional footwork, or sleight of legislative hand will save it. A spokesperson for the city could not be reached for comment Tuesday. Val W. Finnell, Pennsylvania director of Gun Owners of America, said in an emailed statement that his organization disagrees with Judge Ceislers legally confusing decision and believes it to be in error. One cannot assert that the Pennsylvania General Assembly has preempted the entire field of firearms regulation and claim the City of Philadelphias ordinance does not regulate firearms per se. Finnell said Gun Owners of America is currently considering all its options about how to proceed, including appealing to the state Supreme Court. Adam Garber, executive director of CeaseFirePA, applauded the majority decision. Ghost guns have become the public health menace over the last few years as violent criminals have turned to these untraceable firearms. [Fridays] decision will save lives by allowing the city to enforce existing federal and state laws, ending the proliferation of these untraceable guns, Garber said. Despite the 1996 Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling that the state legislature has the authority to preempt local gun-control laws, Philadelphia has repeatedly challenged the law as it continues to deal with rampant gun violence. A police officer photographs damaged stained glass at Mother Bethel AME Church Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Philadelphia police are investigating an act of vandalism at the historic church in Society Hill that will require skilled craftsmen to repair. Read more Mother Bethel AME Church has a storied history of activism that started with its founding in 1787. The church, at 419 S. Sixth Street in Society Hill, is on one of the oldest parcels of land continuously owned by African Americans. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974. Early Monday morning before dawn, it became a victim of vandalism when someone smashed several of its windows, including three of the churchs historic stained-glass windows. Although police say they are investigating and cannot yet say whether the vandalism is believed to be intentional, that there was no message delivered with the rocks thrown through the windows and no graffiti spread on the building leads the senior pastor, the Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, to think it was a random act. It is an evolving story, but what we know today is it appears to be random. Theres no evidence to suggest it was a hate crime. There was no message and nothing was thrown into the church, Tyler said. If a person wants to make a political point, there will be some kind of message. Maybe the person had anger issues, but the indicators at this point [are] it was a random act. Random or intentional? But in a statement released Tuesday, Ahmet Selim Tekelioglu, executive director of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), hinted at the believed that there is a connection between the vandalism and Mother Bethels activism, including being host for the launch of the multi-faith Pilgrimage for Peace walk last week, calling for a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Mother Bethel AME Church in Philadelphia has been on the forefront of communal struggles addressing issues such as criminal justice, voting rights, and other communal concerns, including the Ceasefire Now movement, Tekelioglu wrote. Tyler not only leads an activist church, he also is the civic engagement strategist of POWER Interfaith, a network of 200 area congregations that advocates for economic and racial justice, and now a cease-fire in Gaza. Advertisement A police spokesperson said Tuesday that he could neither confirm nor deny whether the attack was intentional or random. Other victims of the vandalism Other incidents of window-smashing nearby happened in the pre-dawn hours on Monday. The staff of the InterAct Theater on 300 block of South Hicks Street arrived at work and were greeted with the smashed double pane glass on the front door. It was a pretty hefty rock thrown through [the] front door to shatter both panes, theater manager Ann Garner said. There was no message connected to the rock, and nothing else was thrown into the theater. Garner said the theater is a nonprofit and doesnt take political positions as an organization, but does tackle controversial social issues in its plays. On Sunday, it had closed Step Mom, Step Mom, Step Mom a play that tackles interracial issues. Coming in March is The Last Yiddish Speaker, a play about faith, heritage and identity. We moved into here in 2016 and have never had none of this kind of trouble. Hopefully its the last, said Garner, who estimated the damage at $1,500. There was also a report of a broken window at the Beasley building, home of the Beasley law firm, at 1125 Walnut St., but a police spokesperson couldnt confirm whether the acts of vandalism were related. Historic preservation Police estimated the damage to Mother Bethel at $15,000, but Tyler said the shattered stained-glass windows date to the 1890s. He estimated the damage at $30,000 because of the specialized craftsmanship needed to repair historic stained glass. Tyler said he was wary of submitting an insurance claim for the damage due to a recent influx of insurance companies dropping houses of worship, particularly in coastal areas. He said he doesnt want to risk another blow to Mother Bethel. Last month, the church was awarded a $90,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation to preserve the historic building and the windows that are now in pieces. If he has to, Tyler said, he could return to the funder and ask for modifications to the grant to help pay for the unexpected damage. He has already seen an outpouring of support, from his neighbors in Society Hill to local foundations and political leaders, all offering help. Thats the legacy of Bishop Richard Allen, said Tyler, referring to the founder of Mother Bethel. Fourth grade students, Cheyenne Wise, left, and Josiah Forney, read a book on Tuesday, Jan 30, 2024, during a reading class at the Hancock Elementary School in Norristown, Pa. Read more Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter Welcome to Wednesday. Partly sunny skies are in store, with a high near 45. Around Philadelphia and nationally, a growing movement of parents and advocates have been challenging whether their schools know how to teach a basic skill: how to read. Only about one-third of the nations fourth graders are proficient readers, according to a 2022 national assessment, and Pennsylvania scores are about the same. Our lead story looks inside Philly schools to see how kids here learn to read, and checks in with parents who are losing trust and growing frustrated in the ongoing battle over how kids should be taught to read. Paola Perez (@pdesiperez, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com) Advertisement If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. The prevailing approach to teaching reading has been grounded in the idea that children can learn to read relatively naturally. In this process, kids develop a love for reading with guidance from teachers. But longstanding research into how people learn to read shows it isnt a natural act. Most kids dont crack the code, or learn the relationship between sounds and letters to understand written words with limited instruction. Because some can learn to read relatively easily, it can look like that naturalistic child-directed approach is working. But its really failing so many students, said Stephanie Stollar, a consultant and assistant professor of reading science at Mount St. Josephs University in Ohio. Those most at risk are children who dont have language-rich home environments, and those who have learning disabilities. As the gap between what science shows and how schools teach has gained increased attention, calls for change have intensified, with advocates for the science of reading pushing laws backing evidence-based reading instruction. A bill is advancing in Harrisburg that would mandate school districts to use this type of reading curricula. Districts around Philadelphia say theyve been shifting their approaches to align with the science of reading and teach more structured literacy, away from whats often described as balanced literacy. There are fundamental differences between the approaches. And while schools may say theyre teaching structured literacy, it can be difficult to assess those claims, given the complexity of reading instruction. Experts say its about more than just changing curriculum: Its about retraining teachers. Keep reading to hear from parents, experts and advocates on the different approaches to reading instruction, and use our interactive to learn how structured and balanced instructions differ. When the body of a man was found on Oct. 19, 2003, by fishermen in a drainage area on the banks of the Delaware River in Bensalem Township, police said his description didnt match any reports of missing persons in the area. They obtained partial fingerprints, but they didnt match any known fingerprints in the national database. Officials compared the unknown male to numerous missing person reports over the next 19 years without success. This week, police announced they finally identified Edward Anthony Nece as the drowning victim. Notable quote: We were able to finally put a name to a person, said Tom McAndrew, chief of investigations for IFV and a retired Pennsylvania state trooper. To be in an unmarked grave is sad. Everybody deserves their name. Keep reading to hear from Neces father and to learn how law enforcement and genetics investigators finally identified Nece. What you should know today Trivia time Which major shoe company is looking to to open its first new branded store in Philly? A) Vans B) Converse C) Nike D) Adidas Think you know? Check your answer. What we're... Watching: Two major U.S. credit card companies may merge in a $35 billion deal. Hearing: The first 10,000 fans at the Flyers Feb. 27 game will get to take home some Gritty-themed earmuffs. Hooked on: Swiping right, according to a new lawsuit that claims apps like Tinder gamify dating. Unscramble the anagram Hint: Green space in the heart of Center City HARK POD TWIRL Email us if you know the answer. Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Nick Malfitano who correctly guessed Tuesdays answer: Kali Reis. Photo of the day Thats it for now. Take care! By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10. Misconduct allegations have put Georgia prosecutor Fani Willis election subversion case against Donald Trump in jeopardy, but after her fiery testimony last week, her status as a Black woman is firmly intact. Willis took the stand during a hearing centered on Trump codefendant Mike Romans allegation that she and special prosecutor Nathan Wade improperly benefited from the case by using public money to pay for vacations they took together. If Willis is found to have acted improperly, she could be disqualified from prosecuting Trump, her professional future could be irreparably damaged, and the case against Trump could eventually die. In often dramatic testimony, Willis the district attorney in Fulton County, Ga. insisted she paid her own way, with thousands of dollars in cash that she kept in her home. For some, that testimony seemed implausible. For me, it was further proof that Black people, regardless of our socioeconomic status, are largely distrustful of Americas racist systems. Therefore, we often seek security in the one thing America respects: cash. Weve learned, through painful and persistent experience, that we cannot depend on institutions that were built on the backs of our ancestors, and later wielded like weapons against us. Advertisement Weve seen banks redline segregated communities that our forebears were forced to occupy. Weve watched that practice morph into lending patterns that leave Black mortgage seekers denied at twice the rate of the general population. Still, we managed to purchase property and insure it in an effort to protect our generational wealth. But in the wake of the Tulsa Race Massacre, where a Black community suffered millions in property losses, insurers exploited loopholes to avoid hefty payouts and hung Black property owners out to dry. Medical researchers abused us in the Tuskegee experiments, collected our skulls to promote racist junk science at the University of Pennsylvania, and exploited mostly Black prisoners in experiments at Holmesburg Prison. Doctors notoriously harvested the cells of Henrietta Lacks without her familys knowledge or consent. Theres more, but you get the point. Perhaps if such discrimination were limited to private entities, we could put our trust in government. Unfortunately, government agencies have also been complicit. After World War II, the GI Bill disproportionately benefited white troops, while leaving a million Black veterans behind. Soon after, governmental agencies destroyed Black neighborhoods through urban renewal and eminent domain. Many predominantly Black schools in Pennsylvania are underfunded. Black employees make less than their white counterparts, and while Black unemployment hit an all-time low last year, our unemployment rate is still twice that of white people, and its been that way for decades. Weve been subjected to racism by virtually every structure America has put in place, and thats taught us not to depend on such systems. That lesson has been passed down through generations. Its a lesson that makes Willis cash reserve not only understandable but necessary. Willis father, John Floyd III, who is also a lawyer, said as much when he was called to the witness stand during the hearing. He was asked if his daughter said anything to him about having a large amount of cash. Turning to the judge, he said, Your honor, Im not trying to be racist, OK? But its a Black thing. He was right, of course. Black people keep cash because theres not much else in America we can depend on when racism rears its ugly head. To punctuate the point, Willis father told a story about taking his then-wife and 3-year-old daughter, Fani, to a restaurant in Cambridge, Mass., years ago. There was a sign that said, We take credit cards, he recalled. For whatever reasons, the man would not take my American Express credit card. So I pulled out my Visa card, and he wouldnt take my Visa card. So then I pulled out my travelers checks. He said, We dont take checks. Floyd had a $10 bill, and the man at the counter claimed their tab was $9.95. Willis father said he never forgot that experience. Frankly, no Black person should. African Americans keep cash because we never know when racism will strike, and sometimes, when things come down to Black and white, the only way out is green. Former President Donald Trump wrongly claimed he won Pennsylvania in 2020 during a speech at a National Rifle Association event in Harrisburg earlier this month. Read more As former President Donald Trump seeks a return office, he continues to promote the many-times debunked lie that he won the 2020 election in Pennsylvania. I love Pennsylvania. We ran twice. We won Pennsylvania twice, Trump told the crowd in Harrisburg earlier this month at his first Pennsylvania campaign stop of the year at a National Rifle Association conference. Trump won Pennsylvania in 2016 by a little less than 1 percentage point and then lost the state by a little more than 1 percentage point to Biden in 2020. The former presidents insistence on clinging to the falsehood that he won the state has helped keep conspiracy theories alive more than three years after Bidens victory was certified. Advertisement Hes doing this nationally, and his allies are doing this nationally, and were seeing this in many places across the country, said Kathy Boockvar, who served as Pennsylvanias secretary of state during the 2020 election. And this is a deliberate effort to destroy peoples faith in democracy, in the electoral system. READ MORE: Trump makes his first 2024 stop in Pa., where supporters have given him $9 million toward his presidential run Why does Donald Trump say he won Pennsylvania and why is it wrong? Election misinformation surrounding the 2020 election has been rampant, but a major claim Trump made surrounding the election in Pennsylvania was that the state counted more votes than its number of registered voters. After repeatedly bringing up the allegation to Justice Department officials who told him it was false, Trump still made the claim that Pennsylvania counted 205,000 more votes than voters on Jan. 6, 2021. This number came from a faulty analysis by Pennsylvania activist Heather Honey that misused voter roll data. This is a mathematical impossibility unless you want to say its a total fraud, Trump said on the day of the Capitol riot. According to the Pennsylvania Department of State, there were 9,090,962 voters registered for the 2020 general election, and 6,979,668 ballots cast, showing a voter turnout shy of 77%. In another debunked claim, Trump tweeted in November 2020 that more than 1 million mail-in votes were created out of thin air in Pennsylvania. That allegation came from improperly contrasting numbers from the primaries and general election. Another debunked theory came from the right-wing Project Veritas, which falsely accused a postmaster in Erie of backdating mail-in ballots. The group this month admitted the claim was not true after settling a lawsuit. How do we know the Pennsylvania election in 2020 was secure? While a lot of the 2020 conspiracy theories target mail-in voting, the method in Pennsylvania is not new, and used to be largely utilized by Republican voters before the party told them otherwise, said Boockvar, the former secretary of state who served from 2019 to 2021. Voters only receive a mail-in ballot if they apply for it, and the envelopes have a barcode on them unique to the already-approved voter, she said. If a ballot is returned that doesnt have a barcode or if a ballot is returned that has a barcode thats connected to somebody who didnt ask for it, that ballot is not going to get counted, she said. Bipartisan election officials undergo training and the voting systems are required to meet the highest levels of security, she said, which were reestablished in 2018 and had to be updated by the 2020 election. There are checks and balances, and reconciliations and audits in Pennsylvania and across the country, said Boockvar, who now advises on election security through her consulting firm Athena Strategies. She said that on top of the typical election audits, risk-limited audits were piloted in Pa. in 2020 to review a sample of thousands of ballots, including every type. Litigation challenging the election results have failed in state and federal courts, as well as in the U.S. Supreme Court, and additional recounts and audits since the 2020 election have also showed up dry. Every single review of every single county in the Commonwealth has come back within a very small difference, if any, of the results reported back in 2020, said Boockvar. Even though Trump and his allies pushed lies about election integrity on a large scale, they didnt provide evidence in court that any votes in Pennsylvania were cast illegally. Instead, their legal efforts were focused on disqualifying votes that were found to be legitimately cast. Calling an election unfair does not make it so, Judge Stephanos Bibas, a Trump appointee to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, said in November 2020. Charges require specific allegations and then proof. We have neither here. READ MORE: Fact-checking false claims about Pennsylvanias presidential election by Trump and his allies How can election officials restore trust? Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija, an election lawyer who chairs the countys election board, said that while there has been no genuine evidence of widespread fraud in any modern-day elections in the state, social media has helped misinformation spread in echo chambers. When people no longer know what to believe, we have a crisis in our democracy, and it may only get worse with the use of A.I. bots that are trained to disseminate disinformation, Makhija said in a statement. It doesnt help that a lot of people dont know how elections actually work. As elections officials and leaders we must prepare to educate voters on the facts which is that our elections are safe, secure, and verified after election, Makhija said. Boockvar said that election experts can be better at reaching people where they are, such as through members of their own community, in language they understand. We need to be raising the base level of information that people in this country have about elections, she said. We need to be doing it in simple clear repeatable terms so that people can go and have these conversations with their own community. Faced with a surge of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2018 and 2019, Donald Trumps White House discussed ways to more aggressively deploy the resources and the might of the U.S. military. Aides and officials spoke privately about detaining migrants on military bases and flying them out of the country on military planes - ideas that the Pentagon headed off. Throughout his presidency, Trump himself would frequently demand to send troops to the border and catch people crossing. He was obsessed with having the military involved, said a former senior administration official, who, like others, spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private discussions. That approach and unfinished business have taken on renewed significance and urgency as the country confronts another migrant crisis on the U.S.-Mexico border, and as Trump closes in on the Republican presidential nomination. The former president is making immigration a core campaign theme, promoting a proposal for an unprecedented deportation effort if he is returned to power. Advertisement READ MORE: The White House is weighing executive actions on the border with immigration powers used by Trump Trump pledges that as president he would immediately launch the largest domestic deportation operation in American history. As a model, he points to an Eisenhower-era program known as Operation Wetback, using a derogatory slur for Mexican migrants. The operation used military tactics to round up and remove migrant workers, sometimes transporting them in dangerous conditions that led to some deaths. Former administration officials and policy experts said staging an even larger operation today would face a bottleneck in detention space - a problem that Trump adviser Stephen Miller and other allies have proposed addressing by building mass deportation camps. Americans can expect that immediately upon President Trumps return to the Oval Office, he will restore all of his prior policies, implement brand new crackdowns that will send shock waves to all the worlds criminal smugglers, and marshal every federal and state power necessary to institute the largest deportation operation in American history, said Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt in a statement. She added that undocumented immigrants should not get comfortable because very soon they will be going home. Trump has made similar promises and has used inflammatory smears since his 2016 campaign. But he, his aides and allies say a second turn in office would be more effective in operating the levers of the federal bureaucracy and less vulnerable to internal resistance. During his term, former officials said, Trump learned to install more officials at the Department of Homeland Security who would carry out his orders instead of trying to curb his impulses. Throughout his current campaign, the former president has exerted his influence on the immigration policy debate on several fronts. He pressured congressional Republicans to reject a bipartisan compromise to expand enforcement funding and powers, arguing that it would give the Democrats a political victory and that it was not restrictive enough. He has also escalated his use of dehumanizing language to describe migrants, accusing them of "poisoning the blood of our country" and calling the record unauthorized border crossings an "invasion," an "open wound" and a source of imminent terrorist attacks. But his deportation proposal is one part of his emerging platform that experts, current and former government officials and others described as especially alarming, impractical and prone to significant legal and logistical hurdles. "You're talking about officers in tactical gear going into communities, being videotaped in the streets, putting kids in car seats, carrying baby formula. Then what do you do with those families?" said Jason Houser, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's chief of staff from January 2022 until March 2023. "Are you going to go into neighborhoods in Philly, New York, Baltimore and start tugging people out of communities? That's what they want. It puts law enforcement and the communities at risk." Reflecting on the ideas Trump and his team discussed during his presidency, Houser said, Their ideas were psychotic. - - - The military will be deployed Trumps aides are encouraged by polls showing voters prioritizing immigration and trusting him more than President Biden on the issue. But there is some disagreement in his circles on the specifics. While advisers agree on border security, building a wall on the southern border and deporting migrants who have committed crimes after entering the country as winning political issues, one adviser expressed concern that promising to deport massive numbers of people who havent been convicted of a crime could hurt Trump in a general election campaign. Trumps language and proposals are already under heavy criticism from the Biden campaign, as well as pro-immigration and civil liberties groups. Trump is following the 20th century dictators playbook of dehumanizing vulnerable groups in order to isolate them and justify cruelty by the state, Genevieve Nadeau, a former DHS lawyer, said in a report by the nonpartisan organization Protect Democracy. Hes backing up his rhetoric by threatening to invoke extreme and novel legal tools to effectuate an agenda of inhumanity on a scale we havent seen for generations. We should expect him to follow through on his pledges. The Trump campaign has also said he would sign an executive order on his first day in office to withhold passports, Social Security numbers and other government benefits from children of undocumented immigrants born in the United States. The idea of challenging the 14th Amendments guarantee of birthright citizenship would be sure to draw a court challenge. The proposal has been raised by Trump and Miller before, but the specific promise of an executive order indicated the campaign has put further effort into fleshing it out. Some in the Trump campaign have tried to tamp down talk of mass deportations and have become frustrated with some outside allies, the Trump adviser said. But another person close to the campaign said Trump and his team remain in touch with Miller, who has described large-scale raids and throughput facilities. Trump advisers view Miller as the leading authority on America First immigration policy, and he is widely expected to reenter the West Wing if Trump wins in November. I dont care what the hell happens in this world, Miller said on a Feb. 5 podcast interview with right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. If President Trump gets reelected, the borders going to be sealed, the military will be deployed, the National Guard will be activated, and the illegals are going home. Republicans frustrated with Biden have increasingly promoted the idea of militarized immigration enforcement. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has deployed thousands of National Guard soldiers to stop crossings along the Rio Grande, where he announced plans Friday to build a military base to house the troops. Trump and his campaign have offered few details about how he would implement his deportation operation, other than to use all necessary federal, state, local and military resources. The pool of potential deportees is large. There are about 11 million immigrants in the United States without legal status, according to the most recent estimates. Nearly 7 million of those are known to ICE, which maintains a vast database of people eligible for deportation whose asylum claims and immigration cases are still pending. A smaller subset of that caseload - about 1.3 million people - remain in the United States despite having received a deportation order from an immigration judge. These potential deportees, if taken into custody, are the easiest for the government to send home, because they have already received due process. But ICE often doesnt know where they are. Beyond those challenges, there are other major logistical and operational obstacles to the kind of mass deportations Trump has promised. The first is available personnel: ICE only has about 6,000 deportation officers nationwide. The amount of time it takes to recruit, hire, screen and train a new deportation officer is about two years, according to current and former ICE officials. Detention space is also squeezed. The Biden administration is using about 38,000 beds at immigration jails and other facilities that hold migrants awaiting deportation. During the Trump years, the number exceeded 50,000, but never reached the kinds of capacity levels necessary for the kind of mega-deportation system Trump envisions. Some ICE officials said the agency could find more available beds in county jails. But Trump surrogates have gone further, suggesting they would put migrants in camps or tents. So you go around the country arresting illegal immigrants in large-scale raids, you have to have somewhere to put them, Miller said in a November podcast interview with Kirk. So you create this efficiency by having these standing facilities where planes are moving off the runway constantly - probably military aircraft, some existing DHS assets - and thats how youre able to scale. Miller also suggested using National Guard troops, state police and other federal law enforcement agencies as force multipliers, even sending National Guard troops from Republican-led states into neighboring states governed by Democrats. If youre going to go into an unfriendly state like Maryland, well, they would just be Virginia doing the arrest in Maryland, he said in the November podcast interview. Such street-level roundups are so resource-intensive that many ICE officials view them as impractical. The operations require officers to locate migrants and surveil them to determine a safe opportunity to make an arrest. Such arrests often depend on the cooperation of local police. The most crucial part of any law enforcement effort is not to undermine popular support for that effort, and that means doing it legally, doing it respectfully and doing it properly, said Andrew Arthur, a former immigration judge who is now at the Center for Immigration Studies, which seeks tighter restrictions. To arrest and deport families with children, the preparations are even more time-consuming. An operation targeting 20 to 30 families for arrest takes two to three weeks of planning, said Houser, the former ICE chief of staff. For ICE to reach a target of 300,000 to 500,000 deportations per year - a far more modest goal than Trumps - Houser said the agency would need two to three times as many deportation officers as ICE has. Youre talking about building a major logistics apparatus that would still have to meet court and legal requirements for health care and child care, he said. ICE officers and staff are burned out by the pace and intensity of their work over the past several years, according to a veteran DHS official who was not authorized to speak to reporters. For other law enforcement agencies, the drain on their resources would come at the expense of other legitimate priorities, the former DHS official said, and the operation would have to be continuous to deter new arrivals. It feels shortsighted, stupid and an enormous waste of money, the official said. Another problem is so-called recalcitrant countries that limit or refuse to take back deportees. Nations such as Venezuela and Cuba are already under U.S. economic sanctions, leaving Washington with reduced leverage to compel them to take more deportation flights. Even other nations that remain U.S. allies in Latin America set conditions on the number of flights and deportees theyre willing to accept. Passenger manifests have to be sent several days in advance. Its not as simple as loading hundreds of people into a military transport plane and dropping them off wherever the president wants. A former senior administration official said Trump would be emboldened in a second term and insist on moving faster than his first administration did. The former president has repeatedly suggested he would act as a dictator on day one to close the border - sometimes adding that he made this comment in jest. We will do that immediately, Trump said in a campaign video last year. This invasion will not stand. - - - I know it sounds harsh Trumps and Millers determination to carry out mass deportations in a second term grew out of frustration with setbacks to their plans while Trump was in power. In Trump's first month as president, in 2017, a draft memo obtained by the Associated Press proposed deploying as many as 100,000 National Guard troops to arrest undocumented immigrants throughout the interior of the country. The memo was never implemented, but Trump did sign an executive order directing ICE to detain more unauthorized immigrants, including pregnant women and people without criminal records. Trump pledged to immediately deport 2 million to 3 million people after his 2016 win but never came close to hitting those targets. At his administrations high-water mark in 2019, ICE carried out 267,258 deportations and returns, Department of Homeland Security data show. Trump officials likened the approach to taking the shackles off, but it generated a backlash that drove more cities and jurisdictions to adopt sanctuary policies limiting their cooperation with ICE. ICE officials have long preferred to take people into custody from a secure setting such as a jail to avoid the complex planning and adverse publicity of arrests in homes, workplaces or streets. As the number of people in ICE custody jumped 22 percent in Trump's first two years, the DHS inspector general uncovered "egregious violations of detention standards," including inadequate medical care, expired food, lack of recreation, moldy bathrooms and inadequate clothing and hygiene supplies. A separate inspector general's investigation found "dangerous overcrowding" in an El Paso facility, where a cell built for 25 people held 155. In June 2018, reporters and human rights activists toured a facility in McAllen, Tex., where children slept under foil sheets surrounded by chain-link fencing, after DHS acknowledged separating children from their parents at the border. Public outrage over an audio clip of a sobbing child forced Trump to halt the practice. DHS later identified 4,227 separated children, 3,147 of whom were reunited with their parent as of November 2023. Asked in 2023 whether he might reimpose family separation as president, Trump declined to rule it out and defended the policy. I know it sounds harsh, he said in a CNN town hall. When you say to a family that if you come were going to break you up, they dont come. And we cant afford to have any more. In 2019, Trump ordered pre-dawn raids targeting 2,000 families in 10 cities who had received deportation orders, over concerns from top DHS officials about lack of preparation and the effect on children. The administration also changed immigration enforcement rules to expedite deportations of people who had been in the country for less than two years, making it possible to remove them without a hearing in front of an immigration judge. You think other countries have judges that give them trials? Trump said in public remarks in 2018. As the presidents top adviser on immigration matters, Miller advocated for invoking the Insurrection Act to mobilize the Department of Defense, according to the former officials. Pentagon officials balked at the idea of using military bases and planes, current and former officials recalled, citing concerns of getting mired in an open-ended commitment or compromising troop readiness. The president himself would often demand to send troops to block the border, according to the former officials. Aides would explain to Trump the lack of budget or legal authority to use the military for immigration, including a law against using the military for domestic law enforcement, according to former national security adviser John Bolton. He couldnt care less, Bolton said. Trump was generally more focused on his signature campaign promise to build a wall on the border with Mexico, according to former officials. The pressure from the White House was always more about the wall, a former senior DHS official said. We didnt really get significant pressure in the first term on deportations. Still, Trump would often say he wanted more deportations and listened to immigration hard-liners, led by Miller, a former senior administration official said. The biggest deterrent, the official said, was limited space to house people while they were awaiting a court proceeding and not enough judges to move the proceedings quickly. Every time the hard-liners would say, we need to start arresting them, I would say - as I said 50 times - in order to do this, we have to make all these things happen. That was the end of any conversation, the former senior administration official said. Its not an overnight thing. Miller reached the conclusion that aggressive immigration enforcement had to be implemented as quickly as possible, without losing time by considering litigation risks, a former DHS official said. During Trumps first term, immigration advocates and civil liberties groups repeatedly succeeded in halting or narrowing Trumps policies through court challenges, and he could face similar challenges to a mass deportation operation. Trump has specifically cited the Eisenhower example and defended its legacy. When CNNs Jake Tapper noted in 2016 that many people considered it a shameful chapter in American history, Trump responded: Some people do, and some people think it was a very effective chapter. It was very successful, everyone said. So I mean, thats the way it is. Press reports described the operation in the summer of 1954 as an all-out war with a wire-fenced concentration camp from which Mexicans were herded aboard trains. Others were forcibly marched through miles of rattlesnake-infested deserts or had their heads shaved - ostensibly for hygienic reasons but widely viewed as humiliating, according to Garcias research. The Red Cross intervened after many braceros, or temporary agricultural workers and laborers, were stranded in the desert, and 88 died of sunstroke, according to Columbia University historian Mae Ngai. The deportations also used planes, buses and ships, including one built for up to 90 people that was crowded with 500, leading one lawmaker to compare it to a penal ship. The use of ships stopped after seven migrants drowned while trying to escape. The Eisenhower effort was a one-off, Ngai said. Trump and his allies are trying to figure out a way to do that in a sustained way. City Council Chief Clerk Michael A. Decker had worked in the legislative body for 36 years. He died Tuesday. Read more Philadelphia City Council has canceled its weekly meeting on Thursday following the unexpected death this week of Chief Clerk Michael A. Decker, according to an internal Council email that was obtained by The Inquirer. It is with a heavy heart that I announce the unexpected passing of our esteemed colleague, Michael Decker. His dedicated service spanning over 40 years in City Council has left an indelible mark on the city, and his sudden departure has left us all in shock and mourning, Council President Kenyatta Johnson wrote in the email, which was sent to Council members Tuesday. Due to this devastating news, Council will not be in session this Thursday, Feb. 22. We will reconvene on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. READ MORE: Longtime Philadelphia City Council Chief Clerk Michael A. Decker has died Advertisement Deckers death was announced Tuesday, but a cause of death was not immediately known. Grief services were being made available to Council employees, according to Johnsons office. His job entailed overseeing Council procedures and recording bills and resolutions as they made their way through the legislative process. He worked in Council for 36 years, and served as chief clerk for the last 15 years. Decker, 58, was a walking encyclopedia of Councils rules and processes, as Majority Leader Kathy Gilmore Richardson put it, and the loss of his institutional knowledge could significantly disrupt the body. His death comes at a time of significant turnover for Council. When lawmakers began their new four-year terms last month, 12 of the 17 members had previously served for one term or less. Johnson was elected as the bodys leader last month, replacing former Council President Darrell L. Clarke. And much of Councils technical staff, including its top budget analysts, turned over following Clarkes retirement, with some joining new Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration. Not all Council business has ground to a halt this week. The Education Committee on Wednesday held a hearing on the School District of Philadelphias practice of leveling, in which staff are reassigned to other schools based on enrollment. The next major date on Councils calendar is March 14, when Parker will deliver her budget address to lawmakers, kicking off months of negotiations over the citys tax and spending plans for the fiscal year that begins in July. Also on the horizon is the 76ers proposal to build a new arena in Center City. Councilmember Mark Squilla, whose district includes the proposed arena site, has said he has not yet decided whether he supports the teams plan. But he is widely expected to introduce a package of legislation as soon as this spring that, if approved, would authorize the project. I am delighted to join their team of dedicated industry professionals and bring my knowledge and leadership experience to the companys Bermuda platform to launch the marine & energy treaty portfolio alongside Emma Foxley, he said. With this new business capability, Ascot will continue to support and strengthen its excellent value proposition for both our clients and brokers. Once the policyholder has paid millions into their PPLI account, the insurer uses the money to buy shares in hedge funds, private equity firms and other investment vehicles that are out of the reach of most people, according to the Post. SInce the money is in a life insurance policy, any money made by the investors isnt taxable, since the IRS typically cant tax either income within insurance policies or life insurance payouts. Duck Creeks commercial reinsurance technology solution transforms and enhances key operations from contract management to claims, accounting, and reporting, Tiwari said. This empowers our shared clients across APAC, EMEA, and North America to elevate operational efficiency, harness data strategically, and drive critical business outcomes. Our in-depth understanding of the reinsurance industry and our capability to cater to varied international markets uniquely equip us to address the intricate demands of the global re/insurance sector. Matt has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and strategic thinking beyond the realm of technology, chief executive Alex Timm said. The addition of president to his title is a well-deserved acknowledgment of Matts contributions and reflects the broader scope of his role within the company. A southern New Jersey school district will pay $6 million to settle a lawsuit brought by two students who claim they were sexually assaulted for years by a former high school teacher. The male students had filed separate lawsuits weeks apart alleging they were assaulted by Nicholas Zaccaria, a social studies and history teacher at Edgewood High School, which is now known as Winslow Township High School, between 1998 and 2003. Zaccaria was also a theater adviser, and the students took part as teens in the stage crew club. Both men claimed they were targeted by Zaccaria for sex abuse. They said he took them separately to dinner at fancy steakhouses and Italian restaurants and gave them money from the stage crews petty cash account. The Winslow Board of Education approved the settlements in December, without any admission of liability. District Superintendent H. Major Poteat and Matthew J. Behr, a Mount Laurel lawyer who represented the district, declined to comment on the settlement, as did Zaccaria. These are important settlements, John Baldante, a Haddonfield attorney who represented the two students, told The Philadelphia Inquirer. He said each man will receive $3 million in a structured settlement. These victims of child sex abuse now have a voice, Baldante said. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Education New Jersey K-12 A divided US Supreme Court refused to question an admissions policy at a competitive Virginia public high school, turning away contentions that the program was designed to reduce the percentage of Asian-American students. The rebuff is a blow to racial-preference opponents who had sought to extend the 2023 Supreme Court decision that barred universities from using race in admissions for the sake of diversity. Related: Supreme Court Rejects Use of Race in University Admissions The rejection drew a sharply worded dissent from Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, who blasted a federal appeals court decision that upheld the policy. Alito said that ruling allowed intentional racial discrimination so long as it is not too severe. The lower courts reasoning is indefensible, and it cries out for correction, Alito wrote. As is customary, the court as a whole gave no explanation for the order, which rejected an appeal from parents and students who sued to challenge the policy. Last years Supreme Court ruling, which struck down affirmative action programs at Harvard College and the University of North Carolina, left open questions about policies that dont explicitly consider race but nonetheless affect the racial composition of a school. Diversity Sought The Fairfax County School Board said the admissions policy it adopted in 2020 for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology was designed to get more geographic and socio-economic diversity. Under an earlier system, an overwhelming majority of students came from eight of the countys 26 middle schools, the county said. The 4th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the policy in May on a 2-1 vote. The challenged admissions policys central aim is to equalize opportunity for those students hoping to attend one of the nations best public schools, and to foster diversity of all stripes among TJs student body, Judge Robert Bruce King wrote for the majority. The 4th Circuit issued its decision several weeks before the Supreme Court ruled in the Harvard and North Carolina cases. The timing meant the high court had the option of ordering the 4th Circuit to reconsider the Thomas Jefferson case in light of the university ruling, but the justices instead rejected the appeal and effectively ended the lawsuit. The parents and students challenging the new policy said the share of Asian-American in the admitted class plunged from 73% in 2020 to 54% in 2021. The number of admitted Asian-American students fell even though the county increased the size of the entering class, the challengers said. The new policy did away with longstanding admissions tests, replacing them with a process that guarantees a certain number of seats to each of the countys middle schools and give applicants extra points for socio-economic factors including eligibility for free meals and status as English-language learners. The Supreme Court case is Coalition for TJ v. Fairfax County School Board, 23-170. Photo: The US Supreme Court in Washington, DC. Bloomberg. Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Topics K-12 Delawares nationally important Court of Chancery, which has come under criticism from Elon Musk this month, is losing its second-longest-serving judge. Sam Glasscock, who has served on the go-to venue for U.S. corporate disputes since 2011, plans to retire in December, Sean OSullivan, chief of community relations for the courts, said in an email. Glasscock did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Glasscock last year oversaw litigation over Sculptor Capital Managements acquisition of Rithm Capital Corp. In 2016, in one of his highest-profile rulings, he said Energy Transfer Equity could walk away from its more than $20 billion takeover of rival pipeline operator Williams Cos. The court specializes in corporate litigation, including Musks failed bid to walk away from his $44 billion deal for Twitter. The court was thrust into the spotlight last month when its chief judge, Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick, voided Musks $56 billion compensation from Tesla. Following the ruling, Musk said he planned to ask Tesla shareholders to move the carmakers corporate home to Texas from Delaware, where nearly all large publicly traded companies are chartered. Glasscock is the midst of a second 12-year term. The longest-serving judge is Travis Laster who joined the court in 2009. A replacement will be nominated by Governor John Carney and must be confirmed by the states senate. (Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, DelawareEditing by Bill Berkrot) Topics Legislation Delaware Months after a judge ruled that New Yorks ethics watchdog violated the state constitution because it was too independent, a state lawyer told an appeals court that officials had the right to create a corruption-fighting commission more insulated from the people it monitors. The arguments Friday over the fate of the state Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government stem from a lawsuit filed by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who claims the commission lacked the constitutional authority to prosecute him. Cuomo, who resigned in 2021, is fighting an attempt by the commission to force him to forfeit $5 million he got for writing a book about his administrations efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The commission was created in 2022 to investigate potential ethics and lobbying violations by state officials, employees, lobbyists and their clients. The Legislature and Gov. Kathy Hochul replaced a previous ethics body that had been widely criticized for not being independent enough. Under the current commission, the governor appoints only three of the commissions 11 members, cannot force them to explain their actions and cannot remove them for neglecting their duties. A lower court judge ruled in September that giving such independent power to the commission makes it a problem under the state constitution, since enforcement of ethics laws is a power that belongs to the executive branch. The ethics commission has continued to operate while the state appealed to the Appellate Division of the state Supreme Court. Arguing for the state, attorney Dustin Brockner said the governor and the Legislature have leeway to decide how to regulate their affairs. In this case, the governor found there was little public trust in the previous ethics watchdog because it wasnt sufficiently insulated from the officials it monitored, including the governor. Were dealing with a unique problem here, Brockner said. For years, New York has struggled to create an effective ethics commission. And were not talking about regulating the public at large. Were talking about the political branches deciding how to regulate themselves. Brockner argued that the governor maintains meaningful influence over the commission. An attorney for Cuomo told the judges that the goal of the policy might be high-minded, but the question is whether it was constitutional. The constitution doesnt make an exception for the ethics laws. It says the governor is in charge of ensuring that the laws are faithfully executed, said attorney Gregory J. Dubinsky. The mid-level appeals court is expected to issue a ruling in the coming months. Cuomo had also battled the previous commission, the Joint Commission on Public Ethics, over his book earnings. State officials have claimed Cuomo hadnt kept a promise not to use any state resources on the book, allegations Cuomo has denied. Cuomo resigned in August 2021 after the attorney general released the results of an investigation that concluded the then-governor had sexually harassed at least 11 women. Cuomo has denied the allegations. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics New York A cybercriminal group named Lockbit, which was broken up by an international law enforcement operation this week, has hacked some of the worlds largest organizations in recent months, stealing and leaking their sensitive data if they didnt pay ransom. Here are some details about the group: WHERE IS LOCKBIT FROM? Lockbit was discovered in 2020 when its eponymous malicious software was found on Russian-language cybercrime forums. On Tuesday, the U.S. Justice Department charged two Russian nationals with deploying Lockbit ransomware against companies and groups around the world. Police in Poland and Ukraine made two arrests. FBI, UK Crime Agency Say They Have Disrupted LockBit Cyber Gang The gang has not professed support for any government nor has any government formally attributed it to a nation-state. We are located in the Netherlands, completely apolitical and only interested in money, the gang said on its now defunct darkweb site. In just three years, it had become the worlds top ransomware threat, according to U.S. officials. Nowhere has it been more disruptive than in the United States, hitting more than 1,700 American organizations in nearly every industry from financial services and food to schools, transportation and government departments. Among its victims was defense and aerospace giant Boeing BA.N. Last November, Lockbit leaked a cache of internal data it had obtained by breaching Boeings systems. Earlier in 2023 the gangs hack into the financial-trading services group ION disrupted operations at customers that included some of the worlds biggest banks, brokerages and hedge funds. It also breached the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), disrupting trading in the market for U.S. Treasury securities. HOW DOES LOCKBIT TARGET ORGANIZATIONS? The cybercrime gang infected a victim organizations system with ransomware malicious software that encrypts data and then coerced targets into paying ransom to decrypt or unlock it. Such ransom is usually demanded in the form of cryptocurrency, which is harder to trace and gives the receiver anonymity. U.S. and other officials in a 40-country alliance had been trying to stem the global scourge of ransomware by sharing intelligence between nations on the cryptocurrency wallet addresses of such criminals. On the dark web, Lockbits blog displayed an ever-growing gallery of victim organizations that was updated nearly daily. Next to their names were digital clocks showing the number of days left to the deadline given to each organization to provide ransom payment, failing which, the gang would publish the sensitive data it had collected. Often victim organizations will seek the help of cybersecurity companies to identify what data was leaked and negotiate ransom amounts with the hackers. Such behind-the-scenes talks usually remained private and could sometimes take days or weeks, according to security analysts. It was common for some victim names to not show up on the Lockbit blog if the threat was made privately. HOW DID LOCKBIT OPERATE? In part, Lockbits success depended on its so-called affiliates likeminded criminal groups that were recruited to wage attacks using Lockbits digital extortion tools. On its website, the gang boasted of its successes in hacking various organizations and laid out a detailed set of rules for cybercriminals who could submit an application form to work with them. Ask your friends or acquaintances who already work with us to vouch for you, one of those rules said. This web of alliances between cybercriminal groups makes tracking such hacking activity and attempts to ransom victims difficult, since their tactics and techniques can vary with each attack. (Reporting by Zeba Siddiqui in San Francisco and James Pearson in London; editing by Rod Nickel and Sandra Maler) Topics Fraud One of the worlds biggest criminal hacking gangs woke up on Tuesday to a startling discovery: Law enforcement, after taking over their main website on Monday, were now threatening to reveal their personal details and data about their cybercrime organization. The group, Lockbit, had become notorious in cybercrime circles for using malicious software called ransomware to digitally extort victims, relying on underground marketing campaigns to boost its profile. At one point, Lockbit had promised $1,000 to anyone who tattooed their logo on themselves, according to cybersecurity researchers. The groups ringleader, known by the online moniker LockbitSupp, had also become so confident in their own anonymity that, according to Britains National Crime Agency (NCA), they had promised $10 million to the first person who could find and unmask them. What Is Cybercriminal Group Lockbit? The international law enforcement operation, which had posted on the extortion website on Monday that it had taken control, on Tuesday announced it had re-engineered Lockbits core online system mimicking the countdown clock that Lockbit used in extortion attempts and posing its own $10 million challenge, according to a review of Lockbits darkweb site. The core online system was re-engineered to target the hackers in the same way they had terrorized victims: with an advent calendar-like series of tiles, each marked with a countdown timer that, upon reaching zero, published stolen data. Across the websites front page, where victim names once stood, law enforcement agencies replaced the text and links with internal data obtained by hacking the hackers themselves. The resulting display was a smorgasbord of law enforcement action against Lockbit which included indictments, sanctions, a tool with which victims can decrypt their data, and a new countdown with two days left on the clock which asked: Who is LockbitSupp? The $10 million question. Before it was taken down, Lockbits website had displayed an ever-growing gallery of victim organizations that was updated nearly daily. Next to the names were digital clocks showing the number of days left to the deadline given to each organization to provide ransom payment. The unique law enforcement operation was the result of a years-long investigation by international police agencies and was designed to undermine the groups credibility in the criminal underground, officials said. Lockbits affiliates should be very concerned right now, especially as law enforcement continues to make decryptors available to victims, said Charles Carmakal, Mandiant Consultings chief technology officer. The United States has charged two Russian nationals with deploying Lockbit ransomware against companies and groups around the world. Police in Poland and Ukraine made two arrests. Before it was seized by police, Lockbit was able to extort multiple hacking victims at the same time through its website, which listed breached companies next to the countdown timer. Once the counter expired, the cybercriminals would often publish caches of stolen data from the victimized company historically, these exposures included personal private information of customers, medical records, internal billing data and the communications of internal staff, among other things. These leaks were intended to harm the reputation of victims and put them in legal jeopardy, experts told Reuters, netting Lockbit over $120 million in ransom payments. On Tuesday, Graeme Biggar, director general of the NCA, told journalists that the true cost, including money spent by organizations and corporations scrambling to regain access to their networks and the impact on business, could amounted to losses totalling billions. (Reporting by Christopher Bing in Washington and James Pearson in London; editing by Chris Sanders and Leslie Adler) Related: Topics Cyber Law Enforcement This edition of International People Moves details appointments at the insurer Markel and the specialty re/insurer IQUW. A summary of these new hire follows here. Markel, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc., announced that Katie Costello has been named head of Hull and War in a move that will bolster the London underwriting leadership team, while positioning the Hull and War portfolio for further growth. As part of this move, Paul Western has been promoted to head of Hull Underwriting at Markel, where he will be responsible for driving hull strategy, as well as enhancing broker relationships and developing talent within the Hull and War underwriting team. In her new post, Costello will manage and oversee underwriting processes to ensure the team will maintain high service levels for Markels clients and brokers. During her seven years at Markel, Costello has demonstrated exceptional leadership, portfolio management skills, and underwriting expertise, which led to her latest appointment, the company said. Some of her other notable achievements include building strong relationships within the market. Akin to Western, Costello will be situated at Markels London office and report directly to Dan McCarthy, director of Marine at Markel. I am delighted to announce Katie as our new head of Hull and War at Markel. With her deep sector knowledge, dedication, and longevity within the business, Katie is perfectly poised to take our Hull and War business forward, commented McCarthy. I would also like to take this moment to congratulate Paul Western for his promotion to head of Hull Underwriting whilst maintaining his position as a senior underwriter on the War account. Since joining Markel in 2021, Paul has brought a wealth of experience and value to the team and fostered relationships with our broker partners. He is a well-respected underwriter with 30 years experience in the insurance industry, he added. Effective Jan. 1, Markels normal maximum lines have increased to Hull US$150 million, builders risks US$100 million, and war risks US$150 million, McCarthy said. Markel operates the Markel Specialty, Markel International, and Markel Global Reinsurance divisions, as well as State National (its portfolio protection and program services operations) and Nephila, the companys insurance-linked securities operations. *** IQUW Strengthens Property Team With 3 Senior Appointments IQUW, the London-based property, commercial and specialty re/insurer, announced three senior appointments to its Property team to enhance service to brokers and support the strategic growth of the business both in London and internationally. Mike Barrett joins IQUW as lead underwriter for Property Direct and Facultative (D&F), Jonathan Powell as senior underwriter for Property Delegated Authority (DA), and Charles Tinworth as senior property underwriter. With over 10 years experience in property insurance, specializing in open market US and Canadian property risks, Barrett will be responsible for helping to shape and execute the Property D&F teams strategy. He will be based in London and will report to Robbie MacDonald, head of Property D&F. Powell brings over 40 years experience in the Lloyds and London insurance markets to IQUW. He will be responsible for supporting the growth and implementing IQUWs strategy for the Property DA book. He will be based in London and will report to Tom Hennessey, head of Property DA. Tinworth joins IQUW with over a decade of experience in the London and Lloyds property insurance markets. He will be based in London and will report to MacDonald. Before joining IQUW in January 2024, Barrett was at Lockton for nearly five years in the most recent position of senior vice president of P&C Specialties. Prior to this, he was a senior broker at Prospect Insurance Brokers from 2015 to 2018. Powell worked at Bishopsgate Insurance Brokers for three years as managing director before joining IQUW in February 2024. Before this, he was an underwriter at Neon from 2017 to 2020 and was previously an underwriter at Hiscox for more than 10 years. Tinworth joined IQUW in January 2024 from Allianz Commercial where he was senior property underwriter from 2022 to 2024. Prior to Allianz, he held the same position at AIG for nearly two years. About IQUW A new property, commercial and specialty re/insurance business, IQUWs products are distributed through Lloyds syndicate 1856, which provides insurance cover for aviation, cyber, cargo, crisis management, marine, political risk, energy, property, D&O, financial institutions, political violence and terror and war risks, plus reinsurance for both property treaty international and specific to the US and specialty reinsurance. Topics Property Lockton, headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, named Steve Goldenberg executive vice president, operations. He will be based in Kansas City and lead strategic initiatives, recruit talent, and build innovative solutions. Goldenberg joins Lockton from Aon where he held several senior leadership roles throughout his 15-year tenure, including most recently serving as global chief operating officer, commercial risk solutions. Prior to Aon, Goldenberg spent several years at McKinsey & Company and served as senior engagement manager. AXA XL Appoints Anne Marie Elder as Global Chief Underwriting Officer, Specialty AXA XL said Anne Marie Elder will take on the newly created role of global chief underwriting officer, specialty, effective April 1. Elder will collaborate with regional underwriting operations to set the strategic direction, and support business development, of AXA XLs collective marine, aerospace, and specialty niche portfolios, under a newly created global specialty branch. Based in Hartford, Connecticut, Elder will report to Libby Benet, global chief underwriting officer. Elder currently serves as AXA XLs global chief underwriting officer, marine. She joined the business in 2011 and has led the global marine team since 2019. Prior, she held positions with The Hartford, Allianz and CNA Insurance. Topics AXA XL The demand for autonomous trucks is estimated to increase from $3.3 billion in 2023 to reach $6.9 billion by 2028, according to a new study by BCC Research. Leveraging 2022 data as a baseline, the study projects estimated market data for the period spanning 2023 to 2028. The integration of autonomous trucks is poised to revolutionize existing truck allocation structures, BCC researchers said. The shift to autonomous vehicles could aid in reducing current shipping challenges. According to researchers, manufacturers are actively engaged in developing low-emission Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) to enhance supply chain efficiency and mitigate transportation-related emissions within the freight transportation sector. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) amended reporting requirements for AV crashes. This amendment is anticipated to yield more accurate accident reports, furnishing crucial data to support future regulatory changes and further advancing the responsible integration of autonomous technologies into transportation systems, the BCC study stated. Autonomous trucks are expected to heighten road safety and lead to more efficient traffic control. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence, these vehicles have the potential to substantially mitigate human errors, thereby contributing to a safer road environment, researchers said. The ability to communicate with both fellow autonomous trucks and the infrastructure is expected to improve traffic flow and minimize congestion. Autonomous trucks drive enhancements in the global effort to combat climate change, BCC Research said, as they introduce innovative features like platooning, adaptive cruise control, and eco-driving. The rapid evolution and innovation of pivotal technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), 5G connectivity and cloud computing is propelling the demand for AV trucks, researchers said. Playing a pivotal role in elevating the performance, reliability and security of autonomous trucks, the technological advancements pave the way for the emergence of novel business models and services, shaping a transformative future for the industry while bolstering capacity to meet evolving demands, the research company added. Topics Auto The underwriting of liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity in the US by major global insurers is at odds with their climate ambition, according to a report from activist groups including Public Citizen and Rainforest Action Network. Chubb, American International Group and The Hartford Financial Services Group are among underwriters listed on certificates of insurance for seven US LNG export facilities that include terminals in operation and under construction, according to the researchers, who obtained the information through 50 Freedom of Information Act requests. In at least one case, the policy had expired. The report highlights an irony in the insurance industry: While some underwriters are pulling back from traditional coverage areas as climate change exacerbates wildfires, storms and flooding, they are also continuing to support new fossil-fuel projects expected to operate for decades. Although LNG generates about half the carbon dioxide as coal when combusted, the climate benefits of coal-to-gas switching often hinges on the amount of methane that leaks across natural gas and LNG supply chains. The short-term climate impact from the worlds existing LNG supply chains, including final combustion of the fuel, is about 1.5 billion metric tons a year of carbon dioxide equivalent, according to a 2022 IEA model. That exceeds the annual CO2 emissions of Japan, the worlds fifth biggest polluter. Chubb says on its website that its climate goals are aligned with the two-degree Celsius target outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement as well as quantitatively supported science-based standards methodology from the United Nations. The company or its subsidiaries are involved in four of the US LNG export projects, according to the report. Chubb declined to comment. AIG says on its website its committed to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its underwriting and investments portfolio by 2050 or sooner and that its committed to the goals of the Paris Agreement. The Hartford plans to achieve net zero emissions for its full range of businesses and operations by mid-century, according to its website. AIG declined to comment and The Hartford didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Photo: The Aristidis I liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker docked at the Cheniere Liquefaction facility (CCL) in Corpus Christi, Texas on Dec. 4, 2023. Photographer: Mark Felix/Bloomberg Copyright 2024 Bloomberg. Topics Carriers When does a hallucinogenic drug become the direct cause of a catastrophic injury, triggering a homeowners policy exclusion? Not when a young man falls out of bed and is later moved by his comrades, potentially worsening a spinal injury, a Houston federal jury decided Tuesday. The verdict requires Occidental Fire & Casualty Co. of North Carolina to pay $1 million on a homeowners policy despite the controlled-substance exclusion. The jury in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas found that the illicit drug LSD did not directly cause Christoffer Cox, a former high school gymnast, to fall from the bed while staying at a friends home in Texas one night in 2019. The homeowners attorneys argued that Occidentals own amended complaint, filed in pursuit of a court declaration that the insurer had no duty to defend or indemnify, noted that Cox injury was caused in part by neglect and improper care after he had fallen from the bed. Nothing alleged in the original petition asserts Cox was injured as the result of the ingestion of LSD, reads the homeowners answer to the complaint. Occidental had a duty to defend under both the original petition and the first amended petition. Occidental, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and writing in multiple states, is a subsidiary of IAT Insurance Group. It issued a homeowners policy to Dirk and Andrea Zinkweg in 2019. The $1 million policy stated that it covered liability for injury and property damage and that Occidental would provide a defense, even if a suit was considered groundless. The policy also contained an exclusion, denying coverage for injury or damage arising out of the use, sale, manufacture, delivery, transfer or possession by any person of a controlled substance. That included LSD, cocaine, marijuana and other drugs. In the complaint and underlying lawsuit brought by Cox against the Zinkwegs, it was alleged that Cox and his friend Ryan Zinkweg ingested two squares of LSD around midnight, along with cannabis gummies. The two spent the night talking and laughing, both testified. At some point, they said, Cox fell about two feet from the bed onto the floor, and yelped that he was unable to move. Zinkweg called another friend around dawn, who helped move Cox back into bed. Medical personnel were called and arrived about 11:45 a.m. Cox had suffered a complete cervical spinal cord injury, leaving him a quadriplegic, court documents explain. Zinkweg agrees that if he had not given Cox the drugs, Cox would not have been injured, Occidentals amended complaint reads. Multiple witnesses, including medical and drug experts, testified. The jury disagreed with Occidental and unanimously found that the drugs did not cause the injury, essentially certifying that the HO policy had to cover the damages up to the $1 million limit. Topics Texas A company has reached a multimillion-dollar settlement with the federal government and the state of New Mexico to address air pollution concerns in the largest oil and gas producing region in the United States. The agreement announced last week with Apache Corporation calls for the company to pay $4 million in penalties and spend more than $5 million on preventative measures to reduce emissions at its wells in the Permian Basin, which spans parts of New Mexico and Texas. Apache was accused in a civil lawsuit of failing to comply with federal and state requirements to capture and control emissions at some of its operations in the two states. Federal officials and regulators in New Mexico identified the alleged violations through field investigations and flyovers by helicopters outfitted with infrared cameras that can detect hydrocarbon vapors that are invisible to the naked eye. Efforts by regulators to crack down on oil companies have ramped up in recent years through a combination of on-the-ground inspections, flyovers and now satellite imagery as they look for Clean Air Act violations across the Permian Basin and in other oil producing regions. New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney said hes concerned about the compliance rate for companies operating in New Mexico, describing it as terrible. The ozone levels are rising, and you know, I think this is that moment where we have to hold up the mirror to industry and say, If you dont like what you see, its a reflection of your own effort, he said during an phone interview. The civil complaint targeting Apache comes nearly a year after federal and state officials announced a similar agreement with another producer in the Permian Basin over violations. In 2022, an investigation by The Associated Press showed 533 oil and gas facilities in the region were emitting excessive amounts of methane. Surveillance done by state and federal regulators in 2019, 2020 and 2022 turned up alleged violations at nearly two dozen of Apaches sites. The company said in an email that the consent decree announced Tuesday resolves alleged violations from years ago and that the company acted swiftly to remedy the issues. Changes have included modifications to allow for more measurement, monitoring and capture of emissions and increased site inspections and expedited maintenance timelines. Moving forward, the consent decree represents our commitment to continuous improvement across our facilities in the Permian Basin, the company said. We also continue to collaborate with industry partners through organizations such as the Environmental Partnership and the U.N.s Oil and Gas Methane Partnership in striving toward a more sustainable future. The agreement covers 422 of Apaches oil and gas well pads in New Mexico and Texas, ensuring that they will comply with state and federal clean air regulations and that past illegal emissions will be offset. State and federal officials estimate that compliance will result in annual reductions of 900 tons of methane and more than 9,650 tons of volatile organic compounds, which contribute to smog. In all, state officials said the recent consent decrees with energy companies cover about 15% of oil and gas production in New Mexico and about 9% of the wells. While many operators in the Permian are complying with existing regulations, Kenney warned those that are skirting the rules will spur even greater federal and state enforcement over the entire industry if ozone levels continue to rise. Simply stated, the message is Do better,' Kenney said. Apaches plan calls for making design improvements and installing new tank pressure monitoring systems that will provide advance notice of potential emissions and allow for an immediate response. Regular reports also will be submitted to the state. Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Energy Oil Gas Pollution Mexico New Mexico VANCOUVER, British Columbia - February 21, 2024 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: AKEMF) ("AEMC" or the "Company") announces that, subject to TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") Approval, it has extended marketing contracts with two service providers and entered into new contracts with two other providers. In accordance with TSX-V Policy 3.4 - Investor Relations, Promotional and Market-Making Activities, details of each new engagement or renewal are discussed below. Virtus Media Group LLC ("Virtus") Further to the Company's news release of November 6, 2023, the Company has renewed its engagement of Virtus to provide content creation and digital marketing services for a renewed period of 1.5 months, commencing in February 2024 until March 2024 for a total cost of USD $75,000 (approximately CAD$101,737), which shall be paid upfront. The services rendered by Virtus will include Reddit distributions, featured editorials, influencer videos, social media posts and live Discord community events, industry deep dives, and educational posts. Virtus is an Illinois-based company that is headed by CEO Austin Wynn. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, Virtus (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to Virtus as compensation for its marketing services. For more information on the Company's engagement of Virtus, please refer to its news release of November 6, 2023. Black Swan Solutions Inc. DBA VHLA Media ("VHLA") The Company has retained VHLA to provide content creation and digital and video marketing services for an anticipated period of three months, commencing on or around March 1, 2024, for a total cost of CAD $102,500 plus GST, which will be paid upfront to VHLA by the Company. VHLA will, as appropriate, prepare and distribute social media content & ads, influencer marketing, landing pages, and CEO interviews. VHLA is a British Columbia-based company headed by Dawson Ignatieff and Adam Emes. The promotional activity may occur on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, Reddit, as determined by the Company and VHLA. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, VHLA (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to VHLA as compensation for its marketing services. MMG Market Medium GmbH & Co. KG. ("MMG") Further to its news release on July 6, 2023 and January 23, 2024, the Company has amended its previously announced renewed Marketing Services Contract with MMG through an Amending Agreement (the "MMG Amending Agreement"). Pursuant to the terms of the MMG Amending Agreement, the Company will provide MMG a marketing expenditure budget of 350,000 (approximately CAD $509,000) for its renewed MMG term, instead of the previously contemplated marketing expenditure budget of 150,000. Of the 350,000 marketing budget, MMG shall retain a service fee for the extended term of the Marketing Service Contract of 15% of the total marketing expenditure budget (approximately 52,500 or CAD$76,723). MMG is a service provider in the field of online marketing and investor relations services specializing in the European market and is based in Germany. MMG will provide German-translated text materials, including text and display advertisements, advertorials with Company-provided publicly disclosed information, and general information on the nickel and battery metals sector. The firm will create specialized and structured campaigns and ad groups, optimize online advertising for detailed keyword research, and identify possible target groups of potential shareholders. For more information about the Company's engagement of MMG, please refer to its news releases dated July 6, 2023, December 8, 2023, and January 23, 2024. As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, MMG (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. The Company will not issue any securities to MMG as compensation for its marketing service. Sydney Knight The Company has retained a Vancouver, British Columbia-based individual named Sydney Knight to provide investor relations services such as attending marketing events and conferences on behalf of the Company, handling prospective investor inquiries, and building relationships with prospective investors commencing on or around February 20, 2024 until December 31, 2024. Ms. Knight shall be paid a monthly fee of $3,000. Additionally, Ms. Knight shall be granted 75,000 stock options within 30 days following her appointment. The stock options will have a vesting schedule in accordance with TSX-V Policy 4.4 - Security Based Compensation and will have a term of five (5) years and a strike price equal to the market closing price on the date of issuance As of the date hereof, to the Company's knowledge, Ms. Knight does not own any securities of the Company and has an arm's length relationship with the Company. Besides the aforementioned stock options, the Company will not issue any securities to Ms. Knight as compensation for her services. 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 near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the Nikolai Nickel 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 developing the Angliers 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 it will drill holes to test the Canwell, Odie and Emerick prospects and do more geophysical surveys in 2024. 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. Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (TSXV: AEMC) (OTCQB: AKEMF) (FRA: V7F) is a featured mining stock on Investorideas.com More info on AEMC at Investorideas.com Visit: https://www.investorideas.com/CO/AEMC/ Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. Disclosure: Alaska Energy Metals is a paid featured mining stock on Investorideas.com effective January 5, 2023, More info https://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ A Central Bank inquiry into the alleged role a former chief executive of PTSB played in the tracker mortgage scandal has heard that he is being singled out by regulators who are in search of a scapegoat. David Guinane, who served as chief executive of PTSB up until 2012, is the first individual to be put before a public inquiry as part of the Central Banks investigation into the tracker mortgage scandal. The inquiry, which began on Wednesday, is being overseen by UK barrister Peter Hinchliffe assisted by John Breslin SC. It is investigating whether Mr Guinane participated in the commission of a regulatory breach by PTSB between January 2009 to April 2010. Outlining the case, Mr Breslin said the inquiry is focused on a decision by the bank regarding customers who had a tracker mortgage in 2009 and elected to go on a fixed rate which had come to an end. For some customers, the original tracker mortgage would have produced a lower rate than the one offered by PTSB at the time when the customer switched from a fixed rate back to the tracker rate. Mr Breslin said that for a significant cohort of customers, their original rate was lower, and if they had not been put back on their original rate they could end up paying a higher rate over the lifetime of the mortgage. The issue was initially raised by customers through the banks marketing department which sought legal advice. On January 16, 2009, Niall OGrady, PTSBs marketing manager at the time, emailed Mr Guinane outlining the extent of the issue as well as the option to allow the customers who actually contact to revert back to their original tracker. A couple of days later, after Mr OGrady sent a second email enquiring whether Mr Guinane was okay with that, Mr Guinane responded okay with that. The Central Bank contends that PTSB treated those customers who did not complain about the tracker rate unfairly. Under the Consumer Protection Code 2006, PTSB is required to ensure that all dealings with customers are done honestly, fairly and professionally in the best interests of its customer and the market. 'Unfair' Mr Breslin noted that Mr Guinane denies that he participated in the prescribed contravention. He added that Mr Guinane contends that it is unfair that the inquiry is taking place in 2024 when the alleged contravention took place between 2009 and 2010. Paul McGarry SC, who is representing Mr Guinane at the inquiry, said his client is being singled out and that he was just following a recommendation that had been put together by others but those people are not being pursued in this inquiry. It is not unknown to sometimes seek a scapegoat or for somebody to be the so-called face of a particular scandal, episode or difficulty, but just because that sometimes happens doesnt make it right or proper, he said. Mr McGarry added that nobody is asserting any deliberate wrongdoing on Mr Guinanes or PTSBs part. Since the tracker mortgage scandal emerged, which engulfed the five main banks at the time, the Central Bank has levelled around 1bn in fines. The inquiry is expected to run until the middle of March. Barry Keoghan has said he feels his nudity scene in Saltburn was true vulnerability as he paid homage to the viral moment in Vanity Fairs Hollywood issue photoshoot. In Emerald Fennells black comedy, the Irish actor plays a student at Oxford who becomes enthralled by a wealthier classmate and pays a visit to his sprawling estate. At the end of the film, he can be seen dancing around the manor house in the nude to Sophie Ellis-Bextors hit Murder On The Dance Floor, propelling the song back into the charts. In a video clip promoting Vanity Fairs annual Hollywood issue, a host of global actors can be seen posing and chatting before it ends with Keoghan in the buff. Presenting the 30th annual #VFHollywood Issue, our cheekiest yet, starring Bradley Cooper, Natalie Portman, Pedro Pascal, Colman Domingo, Jodie Comer, Lily Gladstone, Greta Lee, Charles Melton, DaVine Joy Randolph, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan. : https://t.co/q98NkynQzU pic.twitter.com/S5ID11nPag VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) February 21, 2024 At first, the actor has his back turned to the camera before he turns around to smile while clasping his hands in front of his crotch. Discussing how he feels about the publics reaction to the films scene, Keoghan, 31, told the US outlet: Its crazy. It can be detrimental to the mind and your mental state if you read into it too much or you look at too much stuff being said. But I wouldnt go there if I wasnt prepared for that, or if I wasnt open to receiving what people want to say. I think it shows an act of maturity in your craft, and if it justifies the story and moves it forward, why not? You look at European cinema and they tend to have a lot of scenes that involve nudity, and its not a massive thing, really. But I think its true art. It really is. And its true vulnerability as well. Youre really kind of putting yourself out there in the most vulnerable state. Its beautiful to look at. Im not saying its because of my body but its freeing to see that body move around in the way it does. Its like a moving painting, almost. The actor admitted he had been more concerned about the dancing than the nudity but said he was pretty impressed at how his moves came across. I was afraid to move my hips and move my body in a certain way but the set was made quite comfortable for me, he added. Once the camera goes up I always feel a bit safe, and I have the licence to kind of waltz in that environment. Keoghan also praised his co-star Jacob Elordi, who plays his wealthy classmate Felix Catton in the film, saying: Hes my baby boy. I love Jacob. Hes one of my best friends. He added that the Euphoria star has always got his back as they both navigate their stratospheric rise to fame. Keoghans role in Saltburn earned him critical praise along with Bafta and Golden Globe nominations for best actor. Last year, he won the best supporting actor Bafta and was nominated for an Oscar in the same category for his role in tragi-comedy The Banshees Of Inisherin. Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan appeared in The Banshees Of Inisherin (Searchlight Pictures/PA) Speaking about adjusting to his swift rise to fame, he said: Its new for me, man. Its quite a scary one as well, because Im not used to this much attention. Its overwhelming, if Im quite honest. Its almost a different kind of life that youve got to be living now. I just want to make movies and fecking play parts and work with filmmakers, and not focus on this noise too much. Keoghan also appears alongside Hollywood stars including Jodie Comer, Bradley Cooper, Pedro Pascal, Natalie Portman, Lily Gladstone, Jenna Ortega, Colman Domingo, DaVine Joy Randolph, Greta Lee and Charles Melton in Vanity Fairs latest Hollywood Issue. The inspector of prisons has told the Government that the time for reports and committees on prisons must draw to a close and that action is now required. It follows a damning report on psychiatric care in the Irish prison system by the chief inspector of prisons, Mark Kelly. It documents critically low numbers of specialist mental health staff and says the lack of care for inmates with serious psychiatric illnesses places not only them but also other prisoners and prison staff at risk of harm. Mr Kelly said his report should be a clarion call for action and said it follows a long-standing under-resourcing of psychiatric services, both in prisons and in the wider community. In his cover letter to Justice Minister Helen McEntee, the inspector outlined the fundamental problems facing the system: Critically low numbers of specialist mental healthcare staff; Inadequate environmental conditions in some prisons, including overcrowding and dilapidation; Deficiencies in mental health treatment in prison; Gross lack of clincial pathways to access necessary treatment outside prison, including in the Central Mental Hospital. Mr Kelly said the Irish Prison Service had verified the factual accuracy of his report and said greater engagement between the Department of Health and the Department of Justice will be critical to address the problems. 'Neglect is resulting in suffering' He said the action plan in his report should be placed on the agenda of the next meeting of a steering committee, jointly held by justice and health, which was set up to implement the report of the High Level Task Force (HLTF) on Mental Health, Addiction, and Prisons. Mr Kelly said neglect in the treatment of prisoners with psychiatric difficulties results in potential human suffering, which, could, on occasion, be construed as ill-treatment. He said: Within Irish prisons, despite the best efforts of many dedicated prison and clinical staff, prisoner-patients frequently experience sub-optimal clinical treatment, due to the environment being inappropriate to their needs and a widespread lack of clinical staff which prevents the delivery of the necessary range of psychiatric treatments. Further, some prisoner-patients experiencing serious mental illness refuse the anti-psychotic medication prescribed for them and, as such medication cannot be legally compulsorily administered to them in a non-hospital setting, they then languish suffering and untreated in custody. Concern for prisoners in hospital He said prisoners whose condition is so severe that they require transfer to hospital and put on waiting lists can face long delays. [They are] left waiting for very many months on end in dilapidated and sometimes overcrowded prison cells and on occasion in conditions which could be considered degrading prior to their transfer. "Indeed, many prisoners whom clinicians in prison deem to require transfer, never actually make it to a psychiatric hospital, either because it is thought fruitless to even refer them, due to a lack of any realistic possibility that they will be accepted, or an absence of any appropriate hospital facility or bed offer," Mr Kelly said. Some of these vulnerable and untreated individuals, on release from custody at the expiry of their detention, are then at high risk of falling through the net of community follow-up, sometimes returning to marginal existences with high risk of homelessness and substance misuse, their cycle of re-offending, re-imprisonment and lack of clinical care starting all over again. Neglect due to low staffing levels Mr Kelly said staffing levels can be so low that, on occasion, it results in neglectful care. He said: Urgent action is required to improve access to in-reach psychiatrists and specialist mental health nurses (and in one prison, IPS general nurses), psychologists, occupational therapy staff and other relevant staff. He said overcrowding and physical dilapidation can affect the privacy and dignity of prisoners and even cause further deterioration in their mental state. He said that the widespread lack of a full range of therapeutic services results in prisoners often depending solely on pharmacotherapy. 'Systemic changes' needed The inspector said access to treatment in external hospitals was key: Better diversion and easier access to the CMH and civil psychiatric hospitals is needed. "This will require systemic changes, led by the HSE, with more beds opening at CMH, a clinical culture change, the opening of long-awaited regional secure hospital units, new designation of hospital units other than the CMH, and the possible use of the independent sector. Further, the proper care and treatment of prisoner-patients who are homeless must finally be effectively addressed. Underpinning all these problems he said was an apparent long-standing under-resourcing of mental healthcare services for prisoners within prisons and in HSE civil psychiatric hospital mental healthcare services, as well as an apparent lack of consistent system-wide political will, prioritisation, accountability, and governmental drive to fundamentally address the relevant failings effectively and assertively". He said this issue must now be an urgent priority: The time for working groups and reports alone must draw to a close, action is now required. Mental Health Reform reaction Reacting, Mental Health Reform said the report exposed alarming deficiencies in the Irish prison system. The findings of the Office of the Inspector of Prisons are deeply disturbing, MHR CEO Fiona Coyle said. "It is clear that the State is failing many people in the criminal justice system with mental health difficulties. The inhumane conditions and inadequate care in the prisons indicate serious human rights violations. She called on the Government to invest in community mental health teams in police stations and courts, which would help to divert vulnerable individuals from the criminal justice system towards supportive environments. Irish Penal Reform Trust reaction She said there has been progress, including the opening of the new Central Mental Hospital in Portrane, north Dublin, and the publication of the HLTF and an implementation structure. Irish Penal Reform Trust executive director Saoirse Brady said it makes for a sobering read stating: As mental healthcare in the community fails people who need treatment, what were seeing is people with high-level healthcare needs inappropriately being placed in prison as supports and care are not available in the community. "Not only is it adding to record levels of overcrowding in prison, but it is also compounding the issues faced by the prison system from overstretched staff, people placed in overcrowded cells in unacceptable conditions, and pressures in accessing support services and healthcare." An independent inquiry into the Omagh bombing will examine alleged security failings that led a High Court judge to conclude the outrage could plausibly have been prevented. The UK government has outlined its terms of reference for the independent probe, which will be chaired by house of lords member Andrew Turnbull. The dissident republican bomb exploded in the Co Tyrone town on August 15 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the statutory inquiry into the attack last year in response to a court judgment that directed the Government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the Belfast High Court judge directing the state to act. Mr Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement yesterday. In his 2021 judgment, Mr Justice Horner directly recommended that the UK government carry out an investigation into alleged security failings in the lead-up to the atrocity. While having no jurisdiction to order the Irish government to act on the matter, the judge urged authorities there to establish their own probe in light of his findings. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic of Ireland. Mr Heaton-Harris has also pressed the Irish government to act. On a visit to Belfast yesterday, Tanaiste Micheal Martin pledged to co-operate with the UK inquiry but said he did not think it made sense to have two inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the Irish border. He also denied that his government had not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. "There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic," he said in clear reference to the UK's contentious legacy laws. "The gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of government. "No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts." In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesn't make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. "We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes." The inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005 with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath. Lord Turnbull said he was confident the terms of reference would allow him to conduct a "thorough and robust investigation". He said the voice of the victims would be heard. "Whilst I have not yet defined the exact procedure the inquiry will follow, it is my intention to invite families and survivors to commemorative hearings in Omagh at some point this year, so I can hear directly from those most affected by the bombing," he said. A 63-year-old Cork man accused of attacking his sleeping wife with boiling water and a claw hammer failed in his appeal to the High Court for bail and was remanded in custody for a further fortnight. Sergeant Aisling Murphy said at Cork District Court on Tuesday that the Director of Public Prosecutions had not yet given directions on the case. On the sergeants application, Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case until March 5 with the accused, Noel Twomey, of 18 Carbery Grove, Knocknaheeny, Cork, remanded in custody until that date. Defence solicitor Shane Collins-Daly said: Mr Twomey was refused bail in the High Court. He remains in custody. He is very anxious the matter be dealt with as soon as possible. He feels it should be very straightforward. Judge Mary Dorgan said: Yes, he might think that. But January 15 (the date of the alleged incident) is no particular delay." When the case came before Cork District Court initially, Detective Garda Brian Murphy testified that the accused man flagged down a Garda patrol car while soaked in his wifes blood and carrying a bloodstained hammer in a plastic bag at 5am on Monday, January 15, at Bakers Road, Gurranabraher. Det Garda Murphy charged him with two counts of assault causing harm to his wife, Jackie Twomey, at the family home. Objecting to bail, Det Garda Murphy said: This is very serious. She went to sleep in the safety of her own bed. Noel Twomey made the very conscious decision to boil a pot of water and retrieve a claw hammer from the toolbox. He has stated that he paced the apartment ten to 20 times considering would he carry out his actions. He then entered his bedroom where his wife slept and attacked her in a cowardly fashion as she lay asleep. He showed no remorse and never enquired about his wifes condition. "He comes across as a very controlling individual. His actions were very disturbing and sinister. The accused admitted attacking his wife and said during his unsuccessful bail application at the district court: My wife goes out three or four times a week, I dont drink or smoke. An accountant and former partner with Deloitte in Cork has been given a two-year suspended sentence, fines of 10,000, and 240 hours of community service for claiming repayments of income tax and Vat to which he was not entitled. Brian Murphy, who previously resided at Abbey View, Ballea Rd, Carrigaline, Co Cork, was sentenced by Judge Colin Daly at Cork Circuit Criminal Court on Tuesday. He had previously pleaded guilty to sample counts on the indictment. Judge Daly said by making false returns to Revenue, the accused man obtained a 54,600 repayment in respect of Vat and left an income tax liability across the years 2008 to 2012 to a total of 456,000. He had a knowledge of finance and tax. He simply should have known better," the judge said. They [the offences] were to support his family. It happened to many families at that time but they did not turn to fraudulent activities. He consciously engaged in this for his own and his familys gain. He comes before the court with previous good character and contributes positively to his community, particularly his religious community and his charitable works over a long period of time. He is not likely to come to attention again. These offences are of some vintage 12 to 13 years old, Judge Daly said. Vat returns Revenue Commissioners assistant principal Ger Cosgrave said the matter came to light when a request for payment by Mr Murphy did not exist on the records of Deloitte. As a result of those enquiries, an investigation and prosecution was commenced and two search warrants were obtained for the premises of Deloitte on Lapps Quay, Cork, and another for his [Mr Murphys] residence. "In the course of interview he made several admissions and was cooperative with the investigation. The sum of 54,600 was repaid in June 2013 by Mr Murphy with 10,000 interest [in respect of the Vat], Mr Cosgrave testified. The witness said in relation to an incorrect Vat return of 105,280, Mr Murphy obtained 54,600, and incorrect forms were filled out to substantiate that. Undeclared income between 2008 2012 Mr Cosgrave said that between 2008 and 2012, there was an undeclared amount of income of 742,000 and a further investigation commenced. The Revenue witness said to Jane Hyland, prosecution senior counsel: Income declared by each of the Deloitte partners was examined. It was only in Mr Murphys case that there was a discrepancy. Following correspondence from Mr Murphy to Revenue about his income being reduced, it resulted in a refund of 68,000 in 2008 a refund for which he was not entitled, it was concluded that he provided incorrect information on his income from Deloitte in 2008. Ultimately, in terms of his tax liability, the total additional income tax liability was 456,000. Interest of 126,000 and penalties of 342,000 resulted in a total of over 924,00. Mr Murphy has made payments of 456,000. But interest and penalties remain. 468,000 is outstanding. Testimonials submitted Defence senior counsel Remy Farrell handed in testimonials on the accused provided by a number of parties, saying to the judge, Hopefully, you will be struck by the fact that he not only participated but is deeply embedded in public and charitable work it has been part of Mr Murphys life for quite a considerable period of time. One comes across accused people dipping into the till to fund a lifestyle that is not what one sees in this case. He is someone who should have known better but as a result of pressures he engaged in conduct for a very significant purpose. All of the tax has been repaid. The Vat was repaid in 2013 along with penalties. The entirety of the income tax has been repaid. The interest and penalties remain. [He has arranged to repay these over the next seven years]. The scheme does not appear to have been well thought out. He was making returns that were not very coherent. It was advantageous to him in the short term. 'Ham-fisted' plan It was in contradiction with what the same firm were making to Revenue. On the question of how this could have been a long-term proposition it had the appearance of someone trying to get in money when there was very real and excruciating financial pressure. "This was fairly ham-fisted and ultimately was always something that was going to come back and bite Mr Murphy. He apologises and accepts responsibility for it. Mr Farrell commented on a company called Securemed Ltd and said, Mr Murphy put 80,000 or so into it. It was to operate as a recruitment business. It never really took off. He put an awful lot of money into that company, with very little hope of recovering it that forms the background. A significant player in the East Cork drugs trade has been arrested after 672,000 in cash was seized by gardai from a car he was driving in Dublin. The individual, aged 38, has been a target of drug officers in Midleton for some time. They have previously been caught with a significant amount of cash and he has been before the courts before. On Tuesday morning, he was stopped by officers in the Dublin south city area and a search was conducted of his vehicle. A massive cash haul was taken away in evidence bags and a forensic and DNA examination will be conducted on it. Garda HQ said the arrest and seizure was part of an ongoing investigation into the target by the Cork County Divisional Drugs Unit. The operation was organised with detectives in the Serious Crime Unit in Donnybrook Garda Station, part of the Dublin South Central Division. It is not yet clear if the sizeable amount of cash was a payment for money owed or was to be used to either purchase drugs or was the result of a sale of drugs. In a statement, the Garda Press Office said: Over 670,000 in cash was seized and one man was arrested in Dublin on Tuesday 20 February 2024 as part of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs in County Cork. At approximately 10am, Gardai from the Donnybrook Community Engagement Area stopped a vehicle in the Mespil Road area of Dublin 4. The statement said: Approximately 672,000 in cash was subsequently seized during the course of a search. The driver, a male in his late 30s, was arrested and is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in Dublin. This provision allows for a maximum detention period of seven days, on application to the courts. The Garda statement said: This seizure is as a result of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs by Cork County Divisional Drugs Unit based in Midleton and co-operation with the Serious Crime Unit based in Donnybrook, Dublin. Investigations are ongoing. Two lead challenges to the Minister for Justices designation of the UK as a safe third country have failed to specify the point at which they say the designation should have been revoked, lawyers for the State have told the High Court. The designation, made by Helen McEntee in December 2020 in response to Brexit, enables a finding that an international protection application is inadmissible if the applicant has arrived from the UK and certain criteria are met. The person can be returned to the UK, as a safe non-EU country, for their asylum application or situation to be determined there. A relatively similar process exists among EU member states under the Dublin III Regulation. The court heard these two cases, brought by international protection applicants who travelled to Ireland from the UK, have been selected from a large group of judicial review actions alleging the designation of the UK as a safe third country is unlawful, due to the risks arising from potential onward transfer to Rwanda. David Conlan Smyth, for the State, submitted on Tuesday that the UKs proposal to fly certain asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing is in a constant state of flux. The High Court is being asked to condemn the minister for justice for the difficulties in reacting to a constantly evolving situation, he said. As a matter of law, he said, there is currently no Rwanda policy, as the UK supreme court found last November it was unlawful due to leaving deportees open to human rights breaches. He noted parliament is currently considering the Safety of Rwanda Bill, which seeks to overcome legal obstacles. However, he said, this has not been enacted and it cannot be said that it applies to the two applicants in these cases. One of the men, who was refused asylum status in the UK, seeks to quash the Ministers decision to return him after she found he would not be subjected to refoulement in the UK. Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan said she will decide later on the States application seeking to add to its defence that he is not entitled to the reliefs sought because he did not disclose that he was convicted of a sexual offence in England. Mr Conlan Smyth said there is a duty of candour on applicants, yet he did not mention his 2018 conviction as part of his case or report it to the Garda protection services, as he is required to do. Failure to report this to gardai is an arrestable offence, counsel added. Lawyers for the man said they need to take instructions but submitted the conviction is not relevant to the legal issues in the case. The court heard the second challenger spent some months in the UK on a student visa before travelling to this State. He wants to overturn the International Protection Appeals Tribunals finding that his application for protection here was inadmissible due to the designation of the UK as a safe third country. Mr Conlan Smyth said there are constitutional difficulties with the two cases, which effectively ask the court to step into the shoes of the executive. He further submitted that the applicants lack the standing to bring their challenges as they are simply not governed by the policy that is, anyway, no longer in force, given the supreme court decision. He pointed to a UK home office document that said the Rwanda proposal would apply to asylum seekers who arrived in the UK after a particular date and whose journey could be considered dangerous, such as arriving on a small boat or clandestinely in a lorry. It appears the applicants here do not meet that criteria, and they cannot ask the court to condemn the safe third country designation based on what might happen to other applicants, he said. Previously, Hugh Southey, with Eamonn Dornan, submitted on behalf of the applicants that Ireland must consider the ultimate destination of asylum seekers it returns to the UK. There is a real risk the UK will soon have a provision that permits the removal of asylum seekers to Rwanda, he submitted. The Minister for Justice has not formally reviewed her designation decision since the end of 2020, yet clearly the asylum system there is very significantly different now, he said. The case continues. Fireworks were allegedly aimed at gardai like missiles at a youth rampage in the north side of Cork city on Tuesday night. Youths had reportedly gathered for an anniversary commemoration for a young male who died tragically before the mayhem erupted in Knocknaheeny. A car crashed and went on fire and fireworks were set off and were aimed like missiles at first responders, sources said. When garda patrol cars arrived, they were targeted by fireworks. Gangs of youths, with faces covered, went on a rampage, a source said, and significantly outnumbered gardai at the scene. Gardai and emergency services attended the scene of a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a car, which occurred at Kilmore Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork, this evening at approximately 7.40pm, the garda press office said in a statement. Two youths aged in their teens were conveyed to Cork University Hospital for treatment for injuries believed to be non-life-threatening at this time. The road has since reopened. Gardai also received reports of a number of public order incidents at the same location. Investigations are ongoing," the statement added. Sinn Fein TD Thomas Gould said that locals were distressed and in danger this evening. These gatherings are being organised through WhatsApp and Instagram and social media and gangs of youths are turning up. Theres a major problem with garda numbers in Cork. The justice system needs to work. People must be brought before the courts. Communities should not be living in fear. Mr Gould said he would be contacting senior Cork gardai, the Justice Minister, and Garda Commissioner tomorrow about the incident. Im from Knocknaheeny. Its a great area. It was a minority from the area and people outside the area who came in causing trouble. This was an organised event. People locally were very upset with happened. They were very nervous of the fireworks in a residential area. It was a dangerous situation for people." Tributes have been paid to award-winning Irish Examiner photographer Denis Minihane who has retired after a remarkable career spanning almost half a century. And he has the pictures to prove it. Mr Minihane, 65, who joined the dark room of then Cork Examiner in 1976 aged 17, and who was appointed a press photographer two years later, was the newspapers longest serving employee until he officially hung up his camera on Wednesday. It is estimated that he took more than 500,000 photographs over the course of his career, and bagged 27 national and international awards. Dozens of staff gathered in the Irish Examiners newsroom to mark his final day at work on Wednesday. It has been a privilege working here over the years, he said, as he paid thanked the many past and present colleagues with whom he worked over the years. I will miss my large second family here but I will be keeping an eye on the publications. But now its time for me to shutter off into the sunset. Mr Minihane, whose father, Michael, was a shopkeeper and local photographer covering a vast area in West Cork from Bandon to Dursey, said he grew up in a newspaper home in Skibbereen, where their pet Yorkshire Terrier, Bruno, was trained to deliver copies of the Cork Examiner to local houses. He attended events with his father, and began writing local news for the Examiner before he got a job in the dark room in 1976, and was appointed a photographer two years later. He recalled the rush to develop rolls of film, of printing black and white photographs from negatives, of how photographers had to either deliver the prints physically or wire them back to the office, the introduction of colour printing and how technology now allows photographers to email photos or video from the field. We have to work harder now because everyone has a camera on their phone, he said. 'World exclusive' He is perhaps best-known for his iconic and haunting black-and-white image of victims of the 1985 Air India disaster lying in a makeshift morgue at what was then the Cork Regional Hospital. "I knew I had a picture but I didnt know what exactly Id captured. You never knew until the negatives were developed later. That was an anxious seven or eight minute wait. But I always felt for the families of the victims, he said. Denis Minihane's dramatic picture of bodies from the Air India Flight 192 air disaster on June 23, 1985. Picture: Denis Minihane He recalled how when the then night editor, Liam Moher, saw the image, he held the printing of the paper to include the photograph, and marked it as a world exclusive. The image captured the scale of the human tragedy and was syndicated around the world, including in the hugely influential New York-based Life magazine. Mr Minihane covered the Betelgeuse and Kowloon Bridge disasters, the Papal visit to Ireland in 1979, and later Pope John Pauls funeral in Rome, the release of the Birmingham Six, and the devastating 2009 Cork floods. The Kowloon Bridge disaster in 1986. Picture: Denis Minihane/Irish Examiner Archive He also covered countless local, national, and international sporting events, including Ronan OGaras famous drop kick in Cardiff to win the Grand Slam in 2009. One of the iconic photos of the Cork floods in 2009. Picture: Denis Minihane But he said some of his fondest memories are the human-interest stories, including taking the first press photographs of the conjoined twins, Hassan and Hussein Benhaffaf, in their Carrigtwohill home just weeks after their birth in December 2009, sharing a cup of tea with Marlon Brando in Shanagarry during the shooting in 1995 of the failed Divine Rapture movie, and of being bitten by a penguin on a shoot in Fota Wildlife Park. Hassan and Hussein Benhaffaf, theconjoined twin boys at eight weeks old, sleeping at their home in Cork. Picture Denis Minihane. Irish Examiner editor Tom Fitzpatrick described Mr Minihanes retirement as "a sad and poignant day" for the company but said he has left a remarkable legacy in the company's photographic archive. It is our chance to say thank you and farewell to a man whose been here for all our first days it was service without parallel, he said. Visual media manager, Jim Coughlan, paid tribute to Mr Minihanes professionalism and dedication and said: "You always did it with a smile on your face. You were a total gentleman." Denis Minihane with Irish Examiner editor Tom Fitzpatrick, The Echo editor Grainne McGuinness, and Visual Media manager Jim Coughlan. Picture: Larry Cummins Mr Minihane thanked his wife, Maeve, and their four adult children, Laura, David, Conor and Shane. I am aware of the challenges that press work places on family so Id like to thank my family for their support, he said. He hopes to take up art classes in retirement. The family of a missing Cork man have appealed to the public to check outhouses and sheds in the hope of finding their family member on the six-month anniversary of his disappearance. John Keaveney, 43, was reported missing from Wilton, Cork City on Sunday, August 20 at 9.30pm. He went missing after he discharged himself from Cork University Hospital. The father of three had been admitted to hospital after suffering an epileptic episode while on a family holiday in East Cork. Johns uncle Cathal Keaveney said that due to Johns condition, and the disorientation he may have suffered as a result, he might still be out there, not knowing were looking for him. We've heard so many testimonies from people who've had a similar experience of people with epilepsy, that after an episode, their thinking and memory can be knocked out, so they really just lose consciousness of who they are, and even sometimes where they are, he added. The last confirmed sighting of John was reported at around 1.20am on Monday, August 21, as he was spotted walking along the Marina walkway, near Pairc Ui Chaoimh. Mr Keaveney outlined his determination in the search for his nephew over the past six months, which he described as a really difficult time in his life. When you get up in the morning or during the day or at night, you're just wondering where John is and you're thinking of him and how much you just miss him being around because he was such a wonderful man. "He had a huge impact on everybody's life, particularly his wife Adrienne and their three young children and then his mum and dad and sister and all his friends. Nobody in their wildest dreams would have thought that there would be a second epileptic episode and John would get disorientated and that we wouldn't see him again. It still stuns you. Meanwhile, Philip Johnston of Mallow Search and Rescue described the efforts made by the team to locate the 42-year-old over the past six months, leaving no stone unturned. The volunteer-led group have completed extensive river and shoreline searches, using sonar site scans and various other pieces of equipment in the hope of finding the father of three, but to no avail. We're not giving up hope, but it's just absolutely baffling you know, he told 96FM's The Opinion Line. Mr Johnston holds onto a glimmer of hope that the Cork man may be alive, adding: Without a body, you have to cling to the hope that he's still alive. The family have appealed to anyone who was in the area of Cork airport in the early hours of Monday, August 21, to pass on any information they have, no matter how small the detail may seem. Our search is continuing and we're still looking, we're still hoping that we can find John, Mr Keaveney added. Anyone with information on John's whereabouts is asked to contact his family at 083 462 2598, Mayfield Garda Station on 021 455 8510, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. The Department of Foreign Affairs summoned the Russian Ambassador to Ireland yesterday to "express outrage" at the death of Russian lawyer and activist, Alexei Navalny. The department also said it reiterated to Ambassador Yuri Filatov that "ultimate responsibility" for Mr Navalny's death rests "with Russian leadership". Alexei Navalny's death was announced last Friday. According to the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service, the 47-year-old died after collapsing and losing consciousness during walk. The Russian opposition leader had been serving a 19-year sentence in corrective colony FKU IK-3, a maximum security prison in the Russian Arctic. An exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed. His death prompted outrage from western leaders, who said that Russian leadership bears responsibility for his death. Mr Navalny rose to prominence more than a decade ago due to his campaigns against high-level corruption in Russia. He helped foment protests in Russia in 2011 and 2012, and also ran for the position of mayor of Moscow in 2013. Alexei Navalny. File Picture: (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin Thereafter, he became Vladimir Putin's most vociferous critic, using his profile to investigate corruption in the Russian president's inner circle. The Department of Foreign Affairs has called for a "full, independent, and transparent investigation" into his death. Speaking in the wake of news of his death, Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said Mr Navalny's death "underpins the lack of respect for the rule of law and protection of human rights in Russia". He also said it served as "a reminder of the repressive nature of the regime against its own people". On Tuesday, the European Union also summoned Russia's representative to the EU and called for an investigation into Mr Navalny's death. The EU's diplomatic service said that the "EU side conveyed the EU's outrage over the death of the Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, for which the ultimate responsibility lies with President [Vladimir] Putin and the Russian authorities." The EU also urged Russian authorities to release Mr Navalny's body to his family without further delay. Its funny how a subject suddenly pops on your radar for different reasons. Last week, somebody close to me insisted I was neurodivergent, suggesting I get myself tested. When I hotly queried the amateur diagnosis, they trotted out a list of behaviours they said conclusively proved it. As it happens there is a rising number of adult diagnoses of dyslexia, ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia (difficulty with numbers) which are collectively referred to as neurodiversity. Each of these conditions expresses itself differently, so perhaps unsurprisingly, quantifiable data varies. One statistic I read is that one in 10 people is dyslexic, another suggested one in five is on the dyslexic continuum, whereas one in 100 Irish people is autistic. One in 10 may be on the ADHD continuum. Neurodiversity Ireland suggests 20% of the population is neurodivergent, which is in line with a British statistic I came across. By coincidence, I also received a long email from a parent expressing her anger, horror, and deep disappointment at the way our educational system and society continue to treat neurodivergent young people. Her son had just concluded his mock Leaving Cert exams and it was a torturous experience for both parent and child. Having battled for years as an advocate for her son, she has a firm grasp on the problems facing the parents of neurodivergent children, Specifically, she detailed the structural problems in the State system, meaning it is often up to parents to research and push for what is required. The first major challenge is having your child assessed when you are met with a highly dysfunctional, disjointed system that is predicated on waiting for years for an assessment of need, before facing another long wait for interventions or a particular therapy and set of supports. We educate our children through a rote and memorising system that neither encourages nor rewards creative and innovative thinking which are often skills that neurodivergent children have in abundance Thanks to this two-prong approach, the clock ticks away, developmental delays occur, critical developmental opportunities which help establish foundations for participation in school and social life are lost and a childs confidence is further eroded. Parents are pressured financially to go for expensive private assessments and therapies as State services let them down, with private assessments costing upwards of 500. And thats just the tip of the iceberg. The lack of joined-up thinking between the HSE, the Department of Education and the Department of Children and Disability, she writes, hits you in the face. Outside of Dublin, most schools are publicly run and so we are entirely dependent on the Department of Education running a good show to get the kids through the secondary system. Numerous TDs have highlighted the patchwork of problems in State accommodation of special needs meanwhile a scandal quietly unfolds. Last week, Minister for State at the Department of Education Josepha Madigan fielded questions from Sinn Fein's Eoin O Broin and Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon on different aspects of the current provision of special needs services to Irish children. Ms Madigan said the department would spend in excess of 2bn, or over 25% of the departments budget, on providing a wide range of schemes and supports for children with special educational needs. Yet there is a dramatic deficiency in capacity for providing assessments and supports. The question is, when parents are having to kick doors down to be heard, where is that money going, and how efficiently is it being spent? To take just one example, late last year the Dyslexia Association of Ireland warned the public assessment system was increasingly failing to meet the demand for dyslexia assessments, with 77% of its members waiting two or more years to access an assessment. In the context of autism, the HSE is on record as having said lack of qualified staff was impacting our capacity to deliver services. An analysis of Government ministers' responses on the matter in Dail debates immediately shows doublespeak and a marked refusal to admit to the crisis, never mind solve it. State exams Another problem is the nature of the State exams themselves. We educate our children through a rote and memorising system that neither encourages nor rewards creative and innovative thinking which are often skills that neurodivergent children have in abundance. I could write a treatise on how the atavistic Leaving Cert is outdated and outmoded, unfit for purpose in a modern world but certainly, its not structured in a neuro-inclusive way, which leaves a sizeable cohort of young people struggling because they dont fit a narrow template. For five years, I volunteered as a reader in a Dublin secondary school, which meant reading through exam papers with candidates, clarifying instructions, reading out questions in real-time, and ensuring each word was recognised. The 2022 Miss Ireland Ivanna McMahon, a qualified doctor, has spoken of the impact of her late dyslexia diagnosis on her self-esteem and raised the issue of extra time in exams. Picture: Brian McEvoy The takeaway from those years was two-fold. First, there is a multiplicity of different ways our brains work. Secondly, our exam system ensures some smart, funny bright kids are left with a feeling they are failing and they are somehow stupid or lesser. No system is perfect. However, our current educational model sends messages to students that being neurodiverse is a deficit rather than a difference. So many young lives are thrown on the slag heap as a result. There is something criminal about that. When it comes to sitting the State second-level exams, while we afford some accommodations like access to assistive technologies, a waiver from the assessment of spelling, grammar and punctuation in the language subjects, and the provision of readers and scribes, we do not allow extra time in State exams as many other European countries do, which is inexplicable. The 2022 Miss Ireland Ivanna McMahon, a qualified doctor, has spoken of the impact of her late dyslexia diagnosis on her self-esteem and raised the issue of extra time in exams. Nor does the Leaving Cert exam properly acknowledge the challenges neurodiverse students face, including fatigue, concentration, and organisation. The lack of educational support feeds into an outmoded cultural perception that to think differently is a problem. Its one I had myself. Having learned more about neurodiversity, if I am neurodivergent, I proudly accept the label. World of work Whats striking is that increasingly in the world of work, many companies have copped on to the fact that neurodivergent people often have skills that neurotypical people lack and in some cases are actively seeking neurodivergent applicants. For instance, dyslexic people are often outside-the-box thinkers. Banks like JP Morgan and Deutsche Bank, and tech companies like Microsoft and Hewlett Packard have recognised people with autism may possess the ability to concentrate on one subject for long periods and have superior attention to detail and data skills. Big companies are slowly beginning to value different minds because they realise there is money in it. Why is our educational system so slow to see the potential to maximise the opportunities that neurodiverse students provide and to help them live their best lives? We fail to identify neurodivergent children, we fail to support them in their childhood and teenage years and fail to see what their strengths are, ultimately failing to stop many of them from falling through the cracks. Ill leave the last word to the parent who wrote to me: Where is the creative thinking of the adults in the room? The political rivals of Pakistans imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan have announced details of a powersharing agreement, naming Shehbaz Sharif as their joint candidate for prime minister. The much-awaited announcement followed days of talks among the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML), the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and other parties who did not gain enough seats in the February 8 vote to govern on their own. Candidates aligned with Khan won the most seats in the parliamentary elections but also did not win enough of them to form a government. Mr Sharif, the brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, is himself a former prime minister, who replaced Khan when he was ousted through a no-confidence vote in parliament in 2022. A supporter walks past a poster of imprisoned former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan (Anjum Naveed/AP) Since then, Khan has been convicted of several offences in what his supporters call politically motivated moves to keep him out of office. Khans rivals said at a late-night news conference of party leaders that they had secured the required majority of votes to form a coalition government. The parliament will elect Shehbaz Sharif of the PML as the new prime minister when the inaugural session of the National Assembly is convened later this month, the party leaders said. They also said the countrys former president Asif Ali Zardari of the PPP will be the joint candidate for the office of the president when the new parliament and all the four provincial legislatures elect the successor of the outgoing President Arif Ali in the coming weeks. Hours earlier on Tuesday, Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party asked for the resignation of the head of Pakistans Election Commission, Sikandar Sultan Raja, for allegedly failing to conduct the elections in a free and fair manner. Khans party claims the victories of dozens of its candidates were converted into defeat, a claim the elections oversight body denies. Though Khans candidates won 93 out of 265 National Assembly seats in the elections, it was not enough to form a government. Mr Sharifs PML and Mr Zardaris PPP won 75 and 54 seats respectively. Khan is currently serving multiple prison terms after being sentenced to a total of 31 years in prison on charges of corruption, revealing official secrets and marriage law violations in late January and early February during trials at a prison in Rawalpindi. The surprisingly strong showing for Khans party in the recent elections were a shock for former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who had earlier been marked out as the powerful security establishments preferred candidate. Shehbaz Sharif, his younger brother, thanked his allies for agreeing to choose him as their joint candidate for prime minister. An Israeli sabotage attack on an Iranian natural gas pipeline caused multiple explosions that struck it a week ago, Irans oil minister has claimed, further raising tensions amid Israels war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The comments by Irans oil minister Javad Owji come as Israel has been blamed for a series of attacks targeting Tehrans nuclear program. The explosion of the gas pipeline was an Israeli plot, Mr Owji said, according to Irans state-run IRNA news agency. Flames leap into the air after a natural gas pipeline explodes outside the city of Boroujen in Iran (Reza Kamali Dehkordi/AP) He added: The enemy intended to disturb gas service in the provinces and put peoples gas distribution at risk. The evil action and plot by the enemy was properly managed. Mr Owji provided no evidence to support his claims. Israel has not acknowledged carrying out the attack, though the country rarely claims its espionage missions abroad. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet responded to a request for comment. The blasts on February 14 hit a natural gas pipeline running from Irans western Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province up north to cities on the Caspian Sea. The roughly 1,270-kilometre (790 mile) pipeline begins in Asaluyeh, a hub for Irans offshore South Pars gas field. Mr Owji earlier compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 including around the anniversary of Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tensions over Irans nuclear program come as groups that Tehran is arming in the region Lebanons militant group Hezbollah and Yemens Houthi rebels have launched attacks targeting Israel over the war in Gaza. The Houthis continue to attack commercial shipping in the region, sparking repeated airstrikes from the US and the UK. Despite a month of US-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they seriously damaged a ship in a crucial strait and downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. Meanwhile on Wednesday, a suspected Israeli strike hit a residential area in Syrias capital, Damascus, where other likely Israeli strikes have targeted members of Irans paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. EU countries have agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia to target individuals and businesses suspected of assisting Moscow in its war against Ukraine, including Chinese companies. The decision on Wednesday coincides with the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion, which began on February 24 2022, and comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Belgium, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, said the package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. The decision comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny (Kin Cheung/AP) According to several diplomats, EU ambassadors from all member countries agreed to impose sanctions on about 200 companies and individuals. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorised to disclose details about the sanctions, which have yet to be formally adopted. They said several Chinese companies, which are believed to have provided help to Russia, have been sanctioned. Details of the entities targeted will be revealed when the sanctions are published in the EUs legal journal. The EU has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia since President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine. The measures have targeted the energy sector, banks, the worlds biggest diamond mining company, businesses and markets, and made Russian officials subject to asset freezes and travel bans. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said the sanctions would keep the pressure high on the Kremlin (Markus Screiber/AP) The new sanctions will further enhance trade restrictions against entities linked to the Russian military-industrial complex, diplomats said. Additional bans on exports to Russia of highly technical components for drone production were adopted. I welcome the agreement on our 13th sanctions package against Russia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. We must keep degrading Putins war machine. With 2,000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones. Belgium said the package will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved on Saturday, which marks the second anniversary of the war. A criminal case involving handwritten lyrics to the classic rock song Hotel California and other Eagles favourites has gone to trial in New York. Three men are accused of scheming to thwart band co-founder Don Henleys efforts to reclaim the allegedly ill-gotten documents. The trial concerns about 100 pages of drafts of the words to songs from the 1976 release Hotel California, which is the third-biggest selling album ever in the US. Rare books dealer Glenn Horowitz, former Rock and Roll Hall of Fame curator Craig Inciardi, and memorabilia seller Edward Kosinski face charges including conspiracy to possess stolen property. Former Rock & Roll Hall of Fame curator Craig Inciardi, right, memorabilia seller Edward Kosinski, centre, and rare-book dealer Glenn Horowitz in court (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) The defendants were not businessmen acting in good faith, but criminal actors, Manhattan district attorney Nicholas Penfold said in his opening. He said they deceived and manipulated to try to frustrate Henleys efforts to recover manuscripts that were rightfully his. The men, all well established in the collectables world, have pleaded not guilty. Their lawyers have said the case alleges criminality where none exists and unfairly tarnishes the reputations of well-respected professionals. The documents include lyrics-in-development for the songs Life In The Fast Lane, New Kid In Town and Hotel California the more than six-minute-long, somewhat mysterious musical tale of the goings-on at an inviting, decadent but ultimately dark place where you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave. If scorned by some as an overexposed artefact of the 1970s, the Grammy-winning song is still a touchstone on classic rock radio and many personal playlists. The entertainment data company Luminate counted more than 220 million streams and 136,000 radio plays of Hotel California in the US last year. The case was brought in 2022, a decade after some of the pages began popping up for auction and Henley took notice and took umbrage. He bought back a bit of the material for 8,500 dollars but also reported the documents stolen, according to court filings. At the time, the lyrics sheets were in the hands of Kosinski and Inciardi, who had bought them from Horowitz. He had purchased them in 2005 from Ed Sanders, a writer and 1960s counterculture figure who worked with the Eagles on a band biography that was shelved in the early 1980s. Sanders, who also co-founded the avant-garde rock group the Fugs, is not charged in the case. Sanders told Horowitz in 2005 that Henleys assistant had posted any documents he wanted for the biography, though the writer worried that Henley might conceivably be upset if they were sold, according to emails recounted in the indictment. But once Henleys lawyers began asking questions, Horowitz, Inciardi and Kosinski started manoeuvring to make up and disseminate a legally viable ownership history for the manuscripts, Manhattan prosecutors say. According to the indictment, Inciardi and Horowitz floated evolving accounts of how Sanders obtained the documents. The explanations ranged over the next five years from Sanders finding them abandoned in a backstage dressing room to the writer getting them from Eagles co-founder Glenn Frey, who died in 2016. Rare book dealer Glenn Horowitz leaves the court during a break in proceedings (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) Emails show some input and assent from Sanders, but he also apparently objected at least to the backstage-salvage story. In messages that did not include him, Horowitz wrote about getting Sanders explanation shaped into a communication and giving him gentle handling and assurances that hes not going to the can, the indictment says. The indictment does not show Kosinki participating in the back-and-forth with Sanders. But Kosinski forwarded one of the various explanations to Henleys lawyer, then told an auction house that the rocker had no claim to the manuscripts, the indictment says. He also asked the auctioneers not to tell potential bidders about the ownership dispute. The defendants lawyers have said that Sanders had legal possession of the documents, and so did the men who subsequently bought them. They have indicated that they plan to question how clearly Henley remembers his dealings with Sanders and the lyric sheets at a time when the rock star was living life in the fast lane himself. The defendants decided last week to forgo a jury, so Judge Curtis Farber will decide the verdict. Ukraines president has invited Polish leaders to meet him at their shared border to resolve a blockade by Polish farmers protesting against Ukrainian food imports. Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the blockade is hampering the shipment of weapons to Ukrainian soldiers. Meanwhile, Polish authorities voiced concern after slogans appeared at the protests praising Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war against Ukraine. Polish farmers drive tractors in a convoy during a protest in Minsk Mazowiecki, Poland (Czarek Sokolowski/AP) Mr Zelenskyy said on social media he hoped the proposed border meeting for him, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and a European Union representative could happen before the two-year anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine on Saturday. This is national security, Mr Zelenskyy said. I am ready to be at the border with our government. There was no immediate reaction from the Polish government. Poland, a member of Nato and the European Union, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion on February 24 2022, accepting unlimited numbers of refugees and providing Ukraine with weaponary. Poles, with past oppression by Moscow rooted deeply in generational memory, are largely supportive of Ukraine. But tensions have been growing as Polish farmers blame imports of Ukrainian grain and other food for pushing down prices and harming their livelihoods. Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who are protesting against competition from Ukraine as well as EU environmental policies, which they say will increase their production costs. Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who are protesting EU environmental policies along with competition from Ukraine (Czarek Sokolowski/AP) Earlier on Wednesday, Polands Foreign Ministry said it believed that extreme groups were trying to take over the protest movement perhaps under the influence of Russian agents. It noted with the greatest concern the appearance of anti-Ukrainian slogans and slogans praising Vladimir Putin and the war he is waging. On Tuesday, a tractor at a protest in the southern Polish region of Silesia carried a Soviet flag and a banner that said: Putin, put things in order with Ukraine, Brussels, and our rulers. A photograph was published by the Gazeta Wyborcza daily. Interior minister Marcin Kierwinski called the banner scandalous and said it was immediately secured by police, and prosecutors were investigating. There will be no consent to such criminal activities, he said. The public promotion of a totalitarian system can be punished with up to three years in prison under Polish law. The Foreign Ministry called on protest organisers to identify and eliminate from their movement the initiators, arguing it was necessary for Polands interest. The current situation of Polish farmers is the result of Vladimir Putins aggression against Ukraine and the disruption of the global economy, not because Ukrainians are defending themselves against the aggression, the ministry said. On Tuesday some protesting farmers at the border spilled Ukrainian grain. Mr Zelenskyy called it grain that our farmers grow with great difficulty despite all the difficulties associated with ruthless Russian aggression. US President Joe Biden never had any involvement in the business dealings of other members of his family, his brother James Biden has said during a voluntary private interview on Capitol Hill as part of House Republicans impeachment inquiry. I have had a 50-year career in a variety of business ventures. Joe Biden has never had any involvement or any direct or indirect financial interest in those activities, James Biden said in an opening statement to members of Congress obtained by The Associated Press. The interview with James Biden is the latest in a series that Republicans have conducted as they seek to rebuild momentum for an impeachment process surrounding the Biden familys overseas finances that has stalled in recent months. Republican staff lawyer Steve Castor, left, shakes hands with James Biden, the brother of President Joe Biden, during a break of a private interview with House Republicans (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) Criticism over the lack of evidence directly related to the president has grown even among those in the Republican Party who have thrown cold water on allegations that Joe Biden was directly involved in his family members supposed efforts to leverage the last name into corporate paydays domestically and abroad. The Republican investigation was undercut again last week when an FBI informant who claimed there was a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving the president, his son Hunter, and a Ukrainian energy company was charged with fabricating the story. The informants claims had been central to the Republican effort in Congress to investigate the president and his family. A lawyer for Hunter Biden, who is expected to give a deposition next week, said the charges show the probe is based on dishonest, uncredible allegations and witnesses. Both James and Hunter Biden were subpoenaed by the committee in November. Lawyers for James Biden have said that there was no justification for the subpoena because the committee had already reviewed private bank records and transactions between the two brothers. The committee found records of two loans that were made when Joe Biden was not in office or a candidate for president. With my appearance here today, the committees will have the information to conclude that the negative and destructive assumptions about me and my relationship with my brother Joe are wrong, James Biden said in his. There is no basis for this inquiry to continue. But Republicans have pushed back on the Biden familys defence, saying the evidence they have gathered since early last year paints a troubling picture of influence peddling in the familys business dealings, particularly with international clients. Wednesday, Feb 21st, 2024 (8:46 am) - Score 4,280 National telecoms and broadband giant BT Group has this morning announced the sale of their iconic BT Tower building in London, which is a grade II listed communications tower located in Fitzrovia, to MCR Hotels for 275 million. The new owner plans to preserve the tower, albeit now serving as an iconic hotel. The main structure of the tower is 177 metres (581 ft) high, with a further section of aerial rigging bringing the total height to 189 metres (620 ft). Upon completion in 1964, it overtook the Millbank Tower to become the tallest structure in London until 1980, when it was surpassed by the NatWest Tower. The Tower itself was formally opened for operations in 1965 by then Prime Minister Harold Wilson. The tower originally acted as somewhat of a hub for the UKs communication networks, but these days many of those functions have since been moved to other sites. For example, the Towers microwave aerials were removed more than a decade ago, as they were no longer needed to carry telecommunications traffic from London to the rest of the country. The sale forms part of the operators efforts to simplify its operations and lower costs across the company, including reducing the number of offices in its estate from more than 300 to around 30. The company, in a separate deal, sold its former HQ, BT Centre, in July 2019 for 210m and moved into a new HQ in 2021 at One Braham, Aldgate. Brent Mathews, Property Director, BT Group, said: The BT Tower sits at the heart of London and weve been immensely proud to be the owners of this important landmark since 1984. Its played a vital role in carrying the nations calls, messages and TV signals, but increasingly were delivering content and communication via other means. This deal with MCR will enable BT Tower to take on a new purpose, preserving this iconic building for decades to come. Payment for the sale will apparently be made over multiple years, as BTs equipment is progressively removed from the building, with final payment on completion of the purchase. No doubt this will be partly aligned to the fact that it will take time for MCR Hotels, which currently owns around 150 hotels, to update the building to serve its new purpose. PISCATAWAY, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ -- TechDemocracy: The leading cybersecurity services provider for enterprises, proudly announces the launch of its cutting-edge Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) in Hyderabad, India, to provide managed cybersecurity services offering. It highlights the company's commitment to innovation by introducing new portfolios and services to augment its already robust cybersecurity offerings. Mr. Sri Patibandla, Dr. Sriram Birudavolu, and Mr. Sushil Madhukar at the launch of TechDemocracy's CSOC in Hyderabad, India This is poised to serve as a beacon for TechDemocracy's state-of-the-art Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) services, with a focus on providing comprehensive solutions to combat evolving cybersecurity threats. TechDemocracy is committed to leveraging advanced technologies and industry-leading expertise to redefine cybersecurity. Mr. Sri Patibandla, CEO of TechDemocracy, highlighted the importance of this expansion, stating, "The inauguration of our expanded CSOC reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. We are also amplifying our capability to support organizations worldwide in combating cyber threats." ADVERTISEMENT "TechDemocracy's expanded CSOC services will play a pivotal role in enhancing cyber-security protection for organizations in the Indian Sub-continent and other global regions" said Dr. Sriram Birudavolu, CEO of DSCI, Telangana, India. TechDemocracy stands out among cyber security services providers, by prioritizing continuous innovation, bespoke strategies tailored to each client's requirements, and a steadfast dedication to fostering long-term cybersecurity resilience. Mr. Sushil Madhukar, Chief Principal of TechDemocracy, highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and business expansion. "This strategic expansion aligns with our broader business expansion goals and reinforces our position as an industry leader. It will open new avenues for companies that cannot build their own SOC to monitor threat detection, thereby fortifying organizational cybersecurity postures effectively." Story continues About TechDemocracy: TechDemocracy is a solution-agnostic, security-focused firm committed to delivering tailored identity and other cyber security services to enterprises globally. With over two decades of hands-on experience, TechDemocracy is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions. Operating with a global presence in the US, India, Canada, and the Philippines, TechDemocracy specializes in fully managing identity and cybersecurity solutions that integrate and operate the entire solution under one umbrella. For more information about TechDemocracy and its innovative cybersecurity solutions, visit https://techdemocracy.com/ For media inquiries, please contact: Phone: +1 732 404 8350 Email: marketing@techdemocracy.com Addresses: US: 1 Corporate Place South, Suite 110, Piscataway, NJ 08854 Canada: #846, 8th Floor Mississauga Toronto Airport Corporate Center 2425 Matheson Blvd East Mississauga, ON L4W 5K4 Canada India: No 83/1, The Skyview 20, Raidurgam, Hyderabad 500081 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344731/TechDemocracy_CSOC.jpg Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/techdemocracy-launched-cyber-security-operations-center-in-hyderabad-india-expanding-their-cybersecurity-services-reach-302067770.html SOURCE TechDemocracy Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2024/21/c7619.html From Namibian western to animated revenge thriller, from Bosnian family saga to a lesbian vampire breakup story, 10 upscale scripted TV projects were spotlighted at the Berlinale Series Markets Co-Pro Series on Tuesday morning, representing unique and bold choices with regard to genre and perspective, on top of great storytelling, Martina Bleis, Head of the Berlinale Co-Production Market, observed before the presentation.. This should attract buyers and co-producers now, and will surely convince discerning audiences once they have been made, More from Variety ADVERTISEMENT With Oscar winner Simon Beaufoy joining climate change satire S.O.L., created by late Ruth McCance, or Cannes-awarded director Aida Begic now focusing on Mirrors, it was a high-profile affair. This female family chronicle serves as a bridge between two centuries, two eras and two societies, shedding light on the hidden lives of Balkan women. Female secrets touch on taboos such as sexuality, violence and mental health. What would happen if all these secrets were not secrets at all?, Begic told Variety. Series selections at the Berlinale have always been about highlighting exciting, cinematic series. Those that you would also enjoy watching on the big screen, with company around you. Very often, these are series by filmmakers and producers who have made highly acclaimed films selected in ours, or in other major festivals before, pointed out Bleis. New shows by Katrin Gebbe Sissi and Pelican Blood Elina Psykou, behind The Eternal Return of Antonis Paraskevas and Piggy director Carlota Pereda, now taking on heartbroken bloodsuckers in Death to Love, are intriguing as well. Story continues Vampires are my favorite monsters for their wild instincts, forbidden desire, and romanticism, says Pereda about her new offering Death to Love, which is as visceral as it is romantic. These characteristics collide with a modern world in which love and desire are no longer viewed as mysterious forces capable of destroying us, but as something to be explained and accounted for, the means to an end. In historical erotic thriller The Werewolf & Renee, Gebbe takes on Marquis de Sade and Bonnie & Clyde mythos. Psykou returns to the 1970s, and a wave of femicides covered up by the regime, in The Coroners Assistant. Each of these filmmakers had outstanding and daring feature film projects with us at the Berlinale Co-Production Market before. We are happy to continue supporting them on their path, underlined Bleis. Daniel Burman, who delivered Yosi, the Regretful Spy, is another regular. Now dealing with Witness 36, co-written with Natacha Caravia, Juan Matias Carballo, in which a writer specializing in creating fictional identities for a witness protection program becomes smitten with a man whose past resembles one of her creations. The premise of his new series project is an instant hit, and the artistic background is of course very strong, said Bleis. Switzerlands The Palm Line, Sina Ataeian Denas Wolves, Spains Executioners and The Man with a Crooked Arm from Under the Hanging Tree helmer Perivi John Katjavivi are spotlighted as well. In the latter, a black cowboy embarks on a trip on horseback across colonial Africa, merging decolonial activism, history and mysticism, promised Katjavivi. Grounded in local oral history and folklore, this series aims to challenge Western textbook facts, he added. Following, a brief break-down of series presented yesterday from what producers let on to Variety: The Coroners Assistant (O Voithos tou Iatrodikasti, Greece) Elina Psykou is behind the show based on the novel by Vassilis Vassilikos and produced by Athens-based Blonde (Tehran). Diving into 1970s Greece, struggling under a junta regime, she focuses on a femicide and attempted cover-up that follows. Its a story that speaks for our country back then, but even more now. And when we say our country, we mean our world, she notes. Cosmote TV will broadcast locally. Death to Love, (Que muera el amor, Spain) Carlota Pereda dazzled at Sundance with first feature Piggy, using standard genre shocks almost as MacGuffins, Variety wrote. Now, Peredas at Berlinale Co-Pro Series on Feb. 20 with her buzzy debut series, Death to Love. A vampire dramedy, its heart looks to lie in a woman vampires struggle to end a toxic relationship with her equally vampire female lover, narrated down the centuries to a modern-day climax. A visceral and romantic proposition, Pereda says. Morena Films (Diablero), behind Piggy, produces with Buendia Estudios (Veneno, Las noches de Tefia). Executioners (Verdugos, Spain) The Basque Pyrenees, 1996. Four kids in search of adventure find a kidnapped businessman held in an abandoned mine. Things quickly blight. A Stand By Me set up, then kidnap thriller then suspense ethical drama where loyalty and friendship are tested over 15 years. Written by the Martin, head writer on Aida, and Garcia Rios, writer-executive producer on Companeros. Lead produced by Vertice 360, an energetic European co-producer, the Series Mania Forums guest project at Co-Pro Series. The Man with a Crooked Arm (Namibia) Perivi John Katjavivi and Old Location Films (Under the Hanging Tree) take on western mythology, showing a black cowboy on a trip across colonial Africa with stolen loot and an orphaned boy. In this thrilling series, characters impose their flawed order on an ungovernable land, delving into their darkest natures, he says about his cinematic project, one thats bound to bring a unique perspective and a new model for filmmaking. Mirrors (Ogledala, Bosnia and Herzegovina) Created by Aida Begic and Amra Baksic Camo and produced by SCCA/pro.ba over the course of 8 episodes it portrays a family that meets following a beloved matriarchs passing, unaware that terrible secrets are about to come out. Leaving her daughter wondering if she truly knew her mother. Today, in a post-truth society, we are losing our sense of context and what came before us. The continuity of womens stories is fragmenting once again, state Begic and Camo. The Palm Line (La Linea della Palma, Switzerland) Hugofilm Features Piece of Sky and Netflixs Early Birds is on board for the thriller created by Maria Roselli, Thomas Ritter and Mattia Lento, and broadcasted by RSI. A journalist investigates the biggest art theft of the century, trying to find out who killed her father. Soon, the mafia turns its attention to her. Our series connects a spectacular true crime case with a fictional story centered on a dysfunctional family and their entanglement with a criminal network, teases Ritter. S.O.L. (U.K., Sweden) Produced by Warp Films and Rainy Days, this biting satire about a rich man with good intentions leading straight to hell has tapped Slumdog Millionaire alumni Simon Beaufoy as writer. Its a thriller about climate change, money and power, but its not finger-wagging, worthy or hopelessly depressing, says producer Peter Carlton. Created by the late Ruth McCance and developed with TV4, the show is eyeing a 2025 shoot. Witness 36 (Argentina) The eventual winner of the coveted Series Mania Award at Co-Pro Series, consisting of an invite to pitch at the French TV festivals Forums Co-Pro Pitching Sessions. Packing a geo-political sweep, but in the final analysis a love story, turning on a female writer, who creates fictional identities for a witness protection program for created by a coalition of intelligence agencies. Against her better judgement, she becomes entangled in a romance with a mysterious man whose past resembles one of her creations. The latest from Argentinas Daniel Burman, (Lost Embrace, Yosi, the Regretful Spy), and set up at Oficina Burman, part of The Mediapro Studio. Wolves (Germany, Czech Republic, Iran) Ma.ja.de and Czech-based Europe Media Nest join forces on an animated thriller created by Sina Ataeian Dena known for producing Locarno winner Critical Zone about a man who learns that his lover was executed for being homosexual. Overwhelmed by rage, he arrives in Tehran to seek revenge. This accessible, universal story explores how oppressed individuals create their parallel realities, says Dena. The visual outcome is neither fully realistic, as a filmed image might be, nor fully artificial, like with animation. The Werewolf & Renee (Germany) Junafilm backs Katrin Gebbes historical erotic thriller, incredibly enough based on true events and selected by SeriesMania for the Series Maker Workshop. Set in Paris in 1780, it sees a young noblewoman Renee discovering she was in fact sold to Marquis de Sade. She seeks revenge but de Sade will actually be her partner in crime. Gebbe already has the Netflix hit The Empress under her belt and is currently shooting A Thousand Blows for Disney+. John Hopewell contributed to this article. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 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. The killings of the three Reavey brothers in 1976 were among the 10 murders examined by the PPS A former police officer will not be prosecuted in connection with 10 Troubles murders after a decision by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS). The killings were linked to the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) Glenanne gang. The PPS said the available evidence "was insufficient to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction". Eugene Reavey, whose three brothers were among the 10 victims, said he had expected charges to be brought and now intends to challenge the PPS decision. "Now I have to go and tell all of my family members that this guy is not going to be prosecuted," he told BBC News NI. "It's just one of those things that the Reavey brothers didn't matter. They were just murdered in the Troubles and nobody wanted to know." The 10 murders which were under examination by the PPS in this case were: Thomas McNamee , who died from injuries he sustained in a bomb attack on McArdle's Bar in Crossmaglen in November 1974 Sean Farmer and Colm McCartney - two GAA fans who were killed at a dummy roadblock at Altnamackin, County Armagh in August 1975 Trevor Brecknell, Patsy Donnelly and Michael Donnelly who were killed in a gun and bomb attack at Donnelly's Bar in Silverbridge in December 1975 Anthony Reavey, Brian Reavey and John Martin Reavey , three brothers who were shot dead in their home in Whitecross, County Armagh in January 1976 Patrick Mone who was killed in a car bomb attack in Castleblayney, County Monaghan in March 1976 In a statement, the PPS said the test for prosecution had not been met in respect of the unnamed former RUC officer, who it referred to only as "Officer A". Martin Hardy, assistant director of the PPS, explained that the key evidence against the ex-RUC man consisted of "a small number of documentary records containing allegations made by another person that Officer A was involved in the above incidents". "These allegations are, however, not in the form of witness evidence. Therefore any prosecution of Officer A would require a hearsay application seeking the admission in evidence of these documentary records," he said. Story continues Eugene Reavey said he was getting calls from the press on Wednesday "to talk about something I knew nothing about" Victims' group, the Pat Finucane Centre, said the decision not to prosecute the former Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officer was disappointing, adding that the murders were not properly investigated at the time. Alan Brecknell, son of Silverbridge bomb victim Trevor Brecknell, described the decision not to prosecute in his father's case as "deeply disappointing but not surprising". "The RUC was well aware of the identities of those who carried out these attacks, while at the same time making sure not to carry out anything resembling a proper investigation," Mr Brecknell said. "Rarely has the phrase justice delayed is justice denied rung more true." The Reaveys were aged 17, 22 and 24 at the time of the fatal shootings and their brother Eugene Reavey has led a long campaign seeking the truth about their murders. But the campaigner said he was not officially notified of the PPS decision before the information appeared online on Wednesday afternoon. "Officially I've been told nothing. I heard from a third party source that one of the RUC officers that was to be charged in connection with the murder of my three brothers is now not going to be charged at all," he said. "It is very disappointing that after 48 years, nearly 49 years almost now, that I find myself at the end of my tether almost with this investigation and it turns out to be a bum steer." He added: "I'm not really fussed if they spend any time in jail or behind bars. All I wanted was for the truth and to have those guys named and shamed in their own community." Mr Reavey said he would be speaking to his solicitor about the issue "because we will definitely be challenging this decision". Who were the Glenanne gang? The Glenanne gang were members of the loyalist paramilitary group the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF). The gang was based at a farm in Glenanne, County Armagh, in the 1970s. The gang's members are believed to have been responsible for up to 120 murders in nearly 90 attacks in the Troubles. Some of the attacks include the 1974 Dublin and Monaghan bombings, which killed 33 people, and the 1975 Miami Showband Massacre which targeted one of Ireland's best known showbands. The gang was also implicated in fatal bombings at the Step Inn pub in Keady, County Armagh, and the Hillcrest Bar in Dungannon, County Tyrone. Read more : Who are the UVF? 'Little evidential weight' The PPS decision follows an investigation by the Police Ombudsman. Mr Hardy said that, having carefully considered issues affecting "the credibility and reliability" of the documentary records related to Officer A, PPS staff determined that there was "no reasonable prospect" of a court granting the hearsay application. He added that even if the hearsay application was granted, the credibility concerns over the documentary records meant that "little evidential weight would be attached to the material and, in the absence of other evidence, there is no reasonable prospect of conviction". The PPS has offered to meet the victims' families to address any concerns they have about the decision not to prosecute Officer A. "We have written to the families of the victims to explain in detail the reasons for the decisions reached in respect of their loved ones," Mr Hardy said. "Although we understand that this will be deeply disappointing to them, we have assured them that these decisions were taken only after a rigorous evaluation of all the available evidence reported by investigators." Sir Lindsay Hoyle was urged to quit by the Scottish National Party over the Gaza vote chaos in Parliament as Rishi Sunak criticised his actions as deeply concerning. But a number of senior Tories rallied around the Speaker and Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt did not back moves to oust the Speaker. SNP leader in the Commons, Stephen Flynn, called on the Speaker to go after a SNP Opposition Day debate on the Middle East ended in mayhem on Wednesday evening. Mr Flynn told the Speaker on Thursday: It descended into farce because of the decision that you alone made to ignore the advice that was given to you by the clerks. Sir Lindsay has come under pressure amid accusations he helped Sir Keir Starmer avoid another damaging revolt over the Middle East issue by selecting Labour's amendment to the SNP motion.Mr Flynn stressed the decision had meant that the SNP had not been able to vote on its own motion for a Gaza ceasefire. That quite frankly is not acceptable, he added. We do not on these benches believe that you can continue in your role as Speaker. Mr Sunak said the way in which Sir Lindsay had changed the "usual ways in which Parliament works" was "very concerning" and parliamentarians should never be intimidated by extremists after the Speaker said he had been motivated in his decision by a desire to protect MPs who faced threats. He said: "Parliament is an important place for us to have these debates. And just because some people may want to stifle that with intimidation or aggressive behaviour, we should not bend to that and change how Parliament works. That's a very slippery slope." Ms Mordaunt earlier did not endorse the SNP leader's rejection of the Speaker, noting that many MPs had expressed their support for him in exchanges on Thursday. She responded: Given the range of views that have been expressed on the floor of the House today, many interventions being supportive of the Speaker and pointing out the pressuresthat were put on him yesterday, that we take time to reflect. Mr Speaker has said his door is open to all parties and individual members, as is mine. Story continues "But as I said, the Government will listen to this House. I am a servant of this House and I will do its bidding." The most critical intervention from a government minister appeared to come from Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch, who reposted a tweet by MP Sir Geoffrey Cox who said the Speaker had either committed an abuse of his office or surrendered to intolerance and tyranny. Sir Lindsay offered an emergency debate on the furore under Standing Order 24 and renewed his apologies, while defending his motivation. I have a duty of care. If my mistake is looking after Members, I am guilty, he added, amid the growing threats of violence against MPs refusing to back a Gaza ceasefire. It is that protection that led me to make the wrong decision. Referring to the murder of MP Sir David Amess and terror attacks on Parliament, Sir Lindsay, his voice faltering, stressed: "I never ever want to go through a situation where I pick up the phone to find a friend, from whatever side, has been murdered by a terrorist. I also don't want another attack on this House. Sir Keir Starmer categorically denied threatening the Speaker to help Labour avoid a rebellion over its stance on a ceasefire in Gaza. The Labour leader said he had simply urged Sir Lindsay to break with parliamentary precedent so that MPs could have a broad debate on a range of positions. But by Thursday afternoon, 67 MPs including senior Tory backbenchers, had signed a motion of no confidence in the Speaker. They included Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the backbench committee of Tory MPs, as well as other executives of the committee Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown and Bob Blackman. But former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace intervened to voice his support for Sir Lindsay, tweeting: I have served under three speakers. Lindsay Hoyle is head and shoulders above the rest. He has my full support. I have served under three speakers. Lindsay Hoyle is head and shoulders above the rest. He is fair, kind and a protector of back benchers. He is not a bully nor a grandstander nor pompous. He has my full support. Rt. Hon Ben Wallace MP (@BWallaceMP) February 22, 2024 At Business Questions, former armed forces minister Mark Francois stressed Sir Lindsay had gone the extra mile to help MPs after the murder of veteran parliamentarian Sir David Amess. He added: Mr Speaker is a decent man as the Leader said, he is not the villain here...we are lucky to have him. He called for the chaos of Thursday night to be put right by a re-running of the debate in Government time. Ms Mordaunt responded: Can I thank my Honourable Friend for what he has said. I think there is no need for me to add to what he has said, he said it very well. Ms Mordaunt had unleashed a stinging attack on Sir Keir Starmer but reserved her fire for the Labour leader rather than the Speaker. Tory grandee Sir Edward Leigh told the Chamber: The Speaker said he made a mistake. The House relies on us having confidence in the Speaker. I think we should move on now and I would recommend that we dont put in motions of no confidence but actually we restore our reputation as soon as possible by having a proper debate on a Government motion where all amendments can be considered. Ms Mordaunt praised his comments and their tone, adding: The Speaker came to this House last night, he took responsibility for his actions, he apologised, he is reflecting on what has happened and he is meeting with all parties. And I hope that everyone who was involved in those events yesterday and the consequences of them will also reflect on their actions. The Prime Minister's official spokesman declined repeatedly to back the Commons Speaker. Asked whether Mr Sunak has confidence in Sir Lindsay, the spokesman told reporters: The Prime Ministers focus is on addressing the situation in the Middle East. Matters for the House are matters for the House, he said. Earlier, on the morning media round, health minister Maria Caulfield refused to back Sir Lindsay staying in post and said he was in a difficult position. But Ms Mordaunt also faced questions over why the Government suddenly pulled Tory participation in a series of votes on the conflict in the Middle East. Sir Keir Starmer had faced the threat of a major revolt by Labour MPs who were ready to back a motion by the SNP motion on a ceasefire in Gaza. But this looming rebellion was defused when Sir Lindsay allowed a Labour amendment to be called which also called for a ceasefire, but was not nearly as critical of Israel. The Speakers decision, which was a departure from parliamentary procedure, a fact highlighted by the Commons clerk, sparked fury from Tory and SNP MPs. After angry and chaotic scenes in the Commons, the Labour amendment was passed without a vote and the SNP motion was not put to a division. Sir Lindsay apologised for how the day had unravelled but stressed he had allow votes on Labour, the SNP and the Governments position on Gaza to try to get the widest possible views, and also to try to defuse threats of violence against MPs who have so far failed to vote for a Gaza ceasefire. He was due to meet party leaders to try to allay their concerns, including allegations that he had bowed to pressure from Labour to allow its amendment, a claim which he denies. Labour, though, accused the Conservatives of leaving Sir Lindsay to take the rap over their decision to pull out of the votes. National campaign coordinator Pat McFadden MP told Times Radio: Who would have thought the Tories, the Government of the day, would stand up and say in effect, we dont think weve got the numbers to back our own proposition here, so were going to pull out of this. But Ms Caulfield flatly rejected the claim, telling Nick Ferraris LBC Show: That is definitely not true. A Tory source added: It was all to do with procedural uncertainty, not to do with numbers. There were reportedly concerns that there might not be sufficient time to vote on the Tory amendment. But some Conservative MPs made clear that they were preparing to vote for a ceasefire, defying the Governments position. Former minister Kit Malthouse tweeted on Thursday: I intended to vote for the SNP motion yesterday. The bloodshed must stop immediately and the serious talking must begin. I intended to vote for the SNP motion yesterday. The bloodshed must stop immediately and the serious talking must begin. https://t.co/8TBdywrjIB Kit Malthouse MP (@kitmalthouse) February 22, 2024 Peterborough MP Paul Bristow messaged on Thursday: Today I tried to do the right thing - for me, my constituents, and for innocent people in Gaza and Israel. I wanted to vote for a ceasefire.But to protect wobbly Labour MPs - the SNP ceasefire motion was binned. Former health minister Neil OBrien also appeared to signal that he wanted to vote for the SNP motion. The extraordinary scenes in the Commons risked further damaging Parliaments reputation and were criticised by aid charities. Halima Begum, chief executive of ActionAid UK, said: We are extremely disappointed to see the utter paralysis in Parliament. A great disservice has been done to the British people, who expected their political parties and elected representatives to conduct a meaningful debate concerning an issue on which depends the lives of over a hundred Israeli hostages, and hundreds of thousands of Gazans suffering one of the most acute humanitarian crises we have seen in recent times. In the startling showdown last night, Tory and SNP MPs walked out of the Commons in apparent protest. As anger boiled over, MPs then divided to vote on whether the House of Commons should sit in private. The proposal was moved by Conservative William Wragg. MPs had called for the Speaker to return to the House of Commons to explain his decisions ahead of a walkout by SNP and Tory MPs before the vote on whether the Chamber should sit in private, which would mean excluding the press and public. But this attempt was rejected by 212 votes to 20 and the Speaker then returned to the Chair. A clearly emotional Sir Lindsay told MPs: I have tried to do what I thought was the right thing for all sides of this House. He added: I regret it and I apologise for how it has ended up. But Stephen Flynn, the SNPs Westminster leader, cast doubt on whether Sir Lindsay would retain the support of his party. He said he felt his party had been treated with complete and utter contempt. MILAN The son of kimono merchants, Yoshiki Hayashis way into fashion was written in his roots but at age 10 music called him first, paving the way for a career as the cofounder, drummer and pianist of Japanese heavy metal band X Japan. As a musician, Yoshiki, known by his first name, has always leveraged the power of clothing to convey messages, he told WWD. Since the very beginning of my career, but also since I was very young, fashion has always been my communication weapon. With music, fashion is 100 percent part of my life. Fashion dresses my messages, protects me and makes me stronger, he said. More from WWD In 2011 he first ventured into fashion, founding Yoshikimono, a line of edgy and contemporary, rock n roll kimonos, a reinvention of the millennial-old garment. It has regularly shown during Tokyo Fashion Week. In 2023 Yoshiki set the bar higher, announcing more ambitious plans for a full-fledged fashion and lifestyle business. Maison Yoshiki Paris, he said, is the natural evolution of Yoshikimono, which was mainly targeting the Japanese and Asian market. I felt very quickly that I had to make something much more international. They are both very personal, but at the same time very distinct from one another. A womenswear brand with a genderless connotation, Maison Yoshiki Paris made its runway debut on the eve of Milan Fashion Week on Tuesday, sending out a rock n roll collection befitting the stage and daring consumers, with crop tops and flared, low-rise pants nodding to the early 2000s, crafted from Italy- and France-sourced precious fabrics including silk, mousselines, lightweight wool and the occasional faux fur accents in sync with the loud aesthetics core to Yoshikis creativity. Maison Yoshiki Paris is 100 percent nurtured by my childhood as well as by my culture. I grew up surrounded by very luxurious and sophisticated fabrics, and I always admired the particularly straight posture that a kimono requires, which definitely nurtured Maison Yoshiki, he explained. Story continues A fall 2024 look from Maison Yoshiki by Japanese rock star Yoshiki. Despite his ambition to reach global markets, Yoshiki is adamant about keeping his culture and origins intact and embedded in his fashion offering. Of course, as an international person who travels a lot, the collections are modern and logically very international, edgy and fashionable. The Japanese references might only be visible to me, he said. Paris may be in the brands name, but Milan felt a more fitting city to unveil its debut collection. Ive always loved Milan as a city, especially for its iconic fashion houses.All the houses have a strong sense of glamour that matches my own, he said. Also, in terms of fashion business, Italy is one of the most successful markets for that in my opinion. Milan is a city that I love, and in which I want to develop my business. The brand is to be distributed through a directly operated e-commerce site and wholesale accounts. A multitalented creative who as a piano virtuoso played for the Emperor and Empress Emeritus of Japan in 1999, Yoshiki is to debut a glassware collection in collaboration with Baccarat later this year, building on a tie-up kicked off in 2021 when he was selected as one of the designers to help celebrate the French crystal-makers 180th anniversary in 2021. Yoshiki also produces his own California wine, Y by Yoshiki, with the Mondavi family and Champagne made in collaboration with Pommery. Projects such as music, literature, culture, all these diverse creative activities, including my wine and Champagne and producing designs for Baccarat, are a way of life for me, he said. Being well dressed while listening to beautiful music and drinking good wine in beautiful crystal glasses, thats a kind of fashion lifestyle that I want to display to others. Best of WWD Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) The Israeli Newspaper Arab 48 reports that United Nations officials have expressed the utmost anxiety about information that has reached them concerning rape and threats of sexual assault by Israeli forces during their arbitrary imprisonment of Palestinian women and girls. International rights experts called for an independent investigation into Israeli abuses. I am summarizing this article because it is important for us to realize that the Arabic-language press reports such developments in detail, even though they are not covered by US cable news. The human rights experts held a news conference on Monday to call for an impartial inquiry into the abuses apparently committed by Israeli troops against women and girls, including murder, rape, and sexual assault. They expressed extreme concern at the horrifying reports that had reached them International human rights experts called for an independent investigation into suspected Israeli violations committed against Palestinian women and girls, including murder, rape, and sexual assault. The experts expressed their deep concern about the horrific reports that revealed cases of rape and threats of sexual assault by Israeli forces during their arbitrary detention of Palestinian women and girls in Gaza and the Palestinian West Bank. They said there were credible and conclusive allegations of blatant violations and that women and girls were victims of arbitrary execution, often alongside members of their families, including children. In a communique, they expressed their shock at the reports of deliberate targeting and extra-judicial killing of Palestinian women and children in places where they sought safety or while they were fleeing. These human rights experts were appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, but are independent and not UN representatives. I give their names below. TRT World Video: Israeli violations against Palestinian girls, women in Gaza They pointed to the arbitrary detention of hundreds of Palestinian women, among them human rights defenders, journalists, and humanitarian activists in Gaza and the West Bank. They said, Many were exposed to inhumane and degrading treatment and to severe beatings. They were deprived of menstrual pads during their periods, of food, and of medicine. The Office of the High Commission on Human Rights quotes the experts as saying, We are particularly distressed by reports that Palestinian women and girls in detention have also been subjected to multiple forms of sexual assault, such as being stripped naked and searched by male Israeli army officers. At least two female Palestinian detainees were reportedly raped while others were reportedly threatened with rape and sexual violence. OHCHR adds, They also noted that photos of female detainees in degrading circumstances were also reportedly taken by the Israeli army and uploaded online. They spoke of their dismay at reports of Palestinian women in prison being subjected to multiple forms of sexual assault, including strip searching by male troops of the Israeli army. They demanded an independent, unimpeachable, comprehensive, urgent and effective investigation into these assaults, with full Israeli cooperation. They said that they had evidence that at least two imprisoned Palestinian women were raped, while others were threatened with rape and sexual violence. They said there were indications that Palestinian girls and women were deliberately targeted and extra-judicially executed in places of asylum or during their attempts to escape. Some of the latter were waving pieces of white cloth but were killed by the Israeli army. According to OHCHR, the communique concluded, Taken together, these alleged acts may constitute grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, and amount to serious crimes under international criminal law that could be prosecuted under the Rome Statute. . . . Those responsible for these apparent crimes must be held accountable and victims and their families are entitled to full redress and justice, The OHCHR notes that the experts were Reem Alsalem, Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences; Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967; Dorothy Estrada Tanck (Chair), Claudia Flores, Ivana Krstic, Haina Lu, and Laura Nyirinkindi, Working group on discrimination against women and girls. The experts are part of what is known as the Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council. Special Procedures, the largest body of independent experts in the UN human rights system. The Israeli mission in Geneva hastened to denounce the communique, charging that the international human rights rapporteurs were animated by a hatred of Israel rather than a devotion to the truth. It said that the Israeli authorities had not received any complaints but were prepared to investigate the Israeli security forces if there were credible allegations and evidence. It is a particularly ugly custom of Israeli officials to meet any criticism with charges of hating Israel or hating Jews, which they conflate with the former. Tel Aviv owes an apology to these internationally respected human rights experts, even if they are only women. Discovery hole had over 1 Oz/Tonne Combined Platinum and Palladium over 7.75 Metres TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - Power Nickel Inc. (the "Company" or "Power Nickel") (TSXV: PNPN) (OTCBB: PNPNF) (Frankfurt: IVVI) is pleased to announce that the first hole of a drill program following up on the Wildcat high grade PGM intersection, appears to have encountered a mineralized zone similar to the previously announced May 10th 2023. The initial Hole PN-23-031A (Figure 1) intersected multiple chalcopyrite stringers and veinlets, almost continuously in the first sixty (60) metres of the drill hole. The thickness and density of these stringers increased at 60.50 to 68.25 m down the hole. The main mineralization is characterized by a high density of chalcopyrite veinlets and local massive chalcopyrite (Figure 2). The current hole encountered the zone at a depth of 168.5 m. Wildcat area represents an entirely new target to explore and is wide open laterally along strike and at depth (Figure 3). This new discovery is very significant with high-grade platinum and palladium associated with the copper. It is probable that the high-grade platinum and palladium originated in the underlying ultramafic unit and remobilized to the tonalite unit where the mineralization occurs. As the mineralization is remobilized, there is potential for discovery in a broader target area in vicinity of the ultramafic source rocks. Follow-up drilling will consider all other lithological units in addition to identifying the source mineralization in the ultramafic unit. "We are very encouraged to extend this, what appears to be, a very high grade PGM rich zone another 100 metres downdip from initial discovery. Will need assay results to confirm, but it certainly looks very good. Subsequent holes will test the horizontal width of this zone while also testing east and west extensions. The PGM discovery adds an exciting and valuable dimension to the Nisk Project. High value PGM zones can add significant value to the overall discovery. We are also excited to learn about our test of the deeper Ultramafic units where we are searching for massive sulfides containing Nickel." - Commented Power Nickel CEO Terry Lynch "We are currently drilling this area to discover a significant volume of Copper-PGM rich mineralization, but our primary goal at Nisk is to identify and explore for ultramafic rocks hosting nickel; so, we have pushed PN-24-044 further down and intersected and untested ultramafic unit observed to the south, in the footwall of the current target. As illustrated in Figure 4, we wanted to test the Fleet ANT velocity model that was suggesting a shallower dip for the footwall ultramafic unit, and we did obtain the anticipated result confirming our interpretation. Having in hands a predictive model certainly indicates that we are having a good grasp on the geology of the system. I'm a very strong believer that a better understanding of the overall geology is the key that will lead to additional discoveries across the property." commented Kenneth Williamson, Power Nickel VP Exploration. Qualified Person Kenneth Williamson, Geo, M.Sc., VP Exploration at Power Nickel, is the qualified person who has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. About Power Nickel Inc. Power Nickel is a Canadian junior exploration company focusing on developing the High-Grade Nisk project into Canada's first Carbon Neutral Nickel mine. On February 1, 2021, Power Nickel (then called Chilean Metals) completed the acquisition of its option to acquire up to 80% of the Nisk project from Critical Elements Lithium Corp. (CRE: TSXV). Subsequently, Power Nickel has exercised its option to acquire 50% of the Nisk Project and delivered notice to Critical Elements that it intends to exercise its second option to bring its ownership to 80%. The last remaining commitment to exercise the option was the delivery of a NI-43-101 Technical report which has now occurred. Power Nickel expects to complete the acquisition in Q1. The figure below presents a longitudinal view of the current 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate About Us Figure 1 The NISK property comprises a significant land position (20 kilometers of strike length) with numerous high-grade intercepts. Power Nickel is focused on expanding the historical high-grade nickel-copper PGE mineralization with a series of drill programs designed to test the initial Nisk discovery zone and to explore the land package for adjacent potential Nickel deposits. About Us Figure 2 In addition to the Nisk project, Power Nickel owns significant land packages in British Colombia and Chile. Power Nickel is expected to reorganize these assets in a related vehicle through a plan of arrangement. Power Nickel announced on June 8, 2021, that an agreement had been made to complete the 100% acquisition of its Golden Ivan project in the heart of the Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle has reported mineral resources (past production and current resources) in 130 million ounces of gold, 800 million ounces of silver, and 40 billion pounds of copper (Resource World). This property hosts two known mineral showings (gold ore and Magee) and a portion of the past-producing Silverado mine, reportedly exploited between 1921 and 1939. These mineral showings are Polymetallic veins containing quantities of silver, lead, zinc, plus/minus gold, and plus/minus copper. Power Nickel is also 100 percent owner of five properties comprising over 50,000 acres strategically located in the prolific iron-oxide-copper-gold belt of northern Chile. It also owns a 3-per-cent NSR royalty interest on any future production from the Copaquire copper-molybdenum deposit sold to a subsidiary of Teck Resources Inc. Under the terms of the sale agreement, Teck has the right to acquire one-third of the 3-per-cent NSR for $3 million at any time. The Copaquire property borders Teck's producing Quebrada Blanca copper mine in Chile's first region. To obtain Power Nickel's Corporate Presentation, please use the link below: http://powernickel.com/corporate_presentation.pdf Power Nickel Inc. The Canadian Venture Building 82 Richmond St East, Suite 202 Toronto, ON Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor it's Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This message contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" concerning the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential," "indicates," "opportunity," "possible" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. 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, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, among others, the timing for the Company to close the private placement or the second Nisk option or risk that such transactions do not close at all; raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward; to maintain its mineral tenures and concessions in good standing; to explore and develop its projects; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associates with mineral exploration and mining operations; future prices of nickel and other metals; changes in general economic conditions; accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates; the potential for new discoveries; the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the projects and if accepted, to obtain such licenses and approvals in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the applicable project; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; and changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, dependence on key management personnel and general competition in the mining industry. There is no evidence anyone was harmed as a result of a WikiLeaks publication, Julian Assanges lawyer has said. Assange is facing a second day in the High Court today (21 February) as part of long-standing battle against extradition to the US, where he is accused of leaking confidential military secrets. The WikiLeaks founder is wanted by US authorities over an alleged conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information following the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. In an interview with Sky News on Tuesday (20 February), Assange's lawyer, Jen Robinson, dismissed claims he endangered anyone following the release of his publications. Including in-pit high-grade zones of 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq & 9.5m @ 2.9g/t AuEq LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Meridian Mining UK. S (TSX:MNO), (Frankfurt/Tradegate:2MM) (OTCQB:MRRDF) ("Meridian" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study ("PFS") drill program continues to produce robust results at its Cabacal Au-Cu-Ag deposit ("the Project"). Multiple wide zones with internal high-grade cores, such as CD-400's 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq & CD-399's 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq including 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq1 ("Figure 1"). The ongoing PFS drill program continues with the aim to convert in-pit resources to higher classifications and increase confidence in the flagship Cabacal project. The Company is also reporting the results of the geotechnical studies that have potential to increase the Cabacal's pit wall angles that would deliver a meaningful reduction in the strip ratio. The northwestern limit of Cabacal deposit remains open with a new cupriferous gossan outcrop defined ("Figure 1"). Further results from Cabacal and Santa Helena are pending. Highlights Reported Today Strong results of gold-copper-silver mineralization including CD-400's 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq reported by Meridian Mining; Meridian drills zones of gold and copper at Cabacal grading up to 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq; CD-399: 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq from 125.5m; including 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq from 126.1m; CD-400: 25.8m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq from 48.0m; including 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq from 62.5m; CD-404: 20.4m @ 1.1 g/t AuEq from 101.2m; 3.8m @ 3.6 g/t AuEq from 113.5m; Cabacal's current geotechnical studies suggest optionality to steepen pit walls to 54; High likelihood that Cabacal's in-pit strip ratio may decrease below PEA's 2.1:1; and Northwestern limit of Cabacal deposit remains open with new cupriferous gossan outcrop. Mr. Gilbert Clark, CEO, comments: "These broad zones of open pitable mineralization, are the economic foundations of the industry leading Cabacal economics, demonstrated in our 2023 PEA. Cabacal's forward momentum continues with our geotechnical studies indicating good potential for steepening the pit walls, (which may lower the strip ratio, and deliver a reciprocal economic benefit in the up-coming PFS). Finding a gossan outcropping at Cabacal's northwestern limit indicates that even after 2km of resource delineation success, near-mine extensions remain to be tested. When I look at the greater picture, I see tremendous potential for Cabacal to emerge as another world-class Latin American VMS camp. 1 See below Technical Notes for AuEq commodity prices, recoveries and equations Cabacal Project Development And Resource Definition Program The Cabacal resource development program continues, with three rigs currently deployed. Results recently received included infill holes drilled from the Cabacal Northwest Extension (CNWE'), and historical Cabacal mine area. These results form part of the PFS process that is a crucial phase in the development and growth of the project. Drill results from the CNWE were returned from the 25m infill program. Results include: CD-395: 10.9m @ 1.3 g/t AuEq (0.1 g/t Au, 0.8% Cu & 1.4 g/t Ag) from 43.7m; Including: 4.1m @ 2.8 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 1.8% Cu & 2.9 g/t Ag) from 50.0m; CD-396: 15.6m @ 0.8 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 0.8 g/t Ag) from 44.4m; Including: 8.7m @ 2.0 g/t AuEq (0.9 g/t Au, 0.8% Cu & 2.6 g/t Ag) from 95.0m; 10.1m @ 1.3 g/t AuEq (0.3 g/t Au, 0.7% Cu & 1.1 g/t Ag) from 118.3m; CD-399: 15.3m @ 1.7 g/t AuEq (0.3 g/t Au, 1.0% Cu & 1.6 g/t Ag) from 125.5m; Including: 5.1m @ 4.0 g/t AuEq (0.6 g/t Au, 2.4% Cu & 3.2 g/t Ag) from 126.1m; CD-404: 20.4m @ 1.1 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.5% Cu & 0.8 g/t Ag); including 101.2m; Including: 3.8m @ 3.6 g/t AuEq (1.3 g/t Au, 1.7% Cu & 2.2 g/t Ag) from 113.5m; and CD-413: 8.4m @ 1.5 g/t AuEq (0.2 g/t Au, 0.9% Cu & 1.8 g/t Ag) from 73.7m. The results form part of broader zones of mineralization (Table 1) and continue to improve modelling of grade continuity. Results show robust levels of copper mineralization at the lower contact which will improve modelling of grade continuity. Copper-stained gossaniferous exposure was observed at the limits of the CNWE, within a band of magnetite banded iron formation. The recognition of this stratigraphic unit is of great interest, as a potential favourable host unit to the gold overprint event. Some of Brazil's best gold deposits are hosted by banded iron units (Rio das Velhas greenstone belt, "Quadrilatero Ferrifero"). Angled holes in the mine area returned: CD-393 (SCZ): 17.8m @ 1.0 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.5% Cu & 1.0 g/t Ag) from 70.3m; Including: 3.3m @ 4.2 g/t AuEq (1.5 g/t Au, 1.9% Cu & 3.5 g/t Ag) from 70.7m; CD-400 (CCZ): 25.8m @ 1.4g/t AuEq (0.9g/t Au, 0.4% Cu, 2.2 g/t Ag) from 48.0m; Including: 9.5m @ 2.9 g/t AuEq (1.7 g/t Au, 0.9% Cu, 5.5 g/t Ag) from 62.5m; CD-414 (SCZ): 4.1m @ 3.3 g/t AuEq (1.7 g/t Au, 1.1% Cu & 4.7 g/t Ag) from 42.1m; and 21.9m @ 0.9 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.4% Cu & 1.9 g/t Ag) from 53.1m; and CD-427 (SCZ): 22.6m @ 1.4 g/t AuEq (0.4 g/t Au, 0.7% Cu & 3.4 g/t Ag) from 59.5m; Including: 8.8m @ 2.8 g/t AuEq (0.6 g/t Au, 1.5% Cu & 7.5 g/t Ag) from 64.4m. The drilling in the mine area provides for further validation of the mine workings and the extensive open pitable mineralization left in the higher-grade pillars. In the mine area, as part of the PFS validation program, the Company is also making additional efforts to locate a number of missing historical holes, particularly those reported and mapped in the Southern Copper Zone. These holes are not in Meridian's modern drill hole data base but host multiple assays of high-grade >5.5g/t Au (including visible gold), and high-grade copper >3.5% Cu. A final program may be undertaken to target these copper-gold zones as they represent potential zones where an under-call of the resource Cabacal may exist. The forward program will particularly focus infilling areas of where resources remain inferred to unclassified. The Company has successfully executed a number of holes at low angles following adaptations to the small footprint rig, where topographic access has been more restricted. Figure 1: Highlights from recent drilling and field mapping at the Cabacal deposit Cabacal Pit Geotechnical Study As part of the data generation requirements for its pre-feasibility study of the Cabacal project, Meridian has commissioned the independent geotechnical consultancy, Fundacao Luiz Englert, to undertake a geotechnical study of the Cabacal pit in order to deliver enhanced confidence to the assumptions that were used in the Cabacal preliminary economic study completed in March 2023. Six dedicated geotechnical holes were drilled as part of the 2023 project development campaign, and fifty-nine specific resource development holes have been geotechnically logged ("Figure 2") using a template recommended by the Company's Brazilian consultancy, with logging ongoing in parallel with the resource development program. Figure 2: Top: perspective view of project development drilling at Cabacal - hydrogeological holes in blue; holes with geotechnical logging in green, holes with geotechnical sampling in red, Bottom: in relation to the PEA pit shell. Conservative pit wall angles of 48 degrees were assumed for the PEA in the absence of specific geotechnical data. Mining consultants GE21 have reviewed the outcomes of the geotechnical studies and assessments indicate optionality to increase the global hanging wall in the Cabacal pit up to 54 degrees (a 12.5% steepening of the pit wall). New data will be reviewed and fed into the Cabacal PFS. A reduction in the volume of waste rock offers scope to improve the stripping ratio for the project. Mining lower volumes of waste rock would benefit the operating costs for the project as well as result in smaller areas required for the storage of waste rock. Final assumptions will be reviewed with the advancement of the drilling program in the lead up to the pre-feasibility. About Meridian Meridian Mining UK S is focused on: The development and exploration of the advanced stage Cabacal VMS goldcopper project; Regional scale exploration of the Cabacal VMS belt; and Exploration in the Jauru & Araputanga Greenstone belts (the above all located in the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil). Cabacal is a gold-copper-silver rich VMS deposit with the potential to be a standalone mine within the 50km VMS belt. Cabacal's base and precious metal-rich mineralization is hosted by volcanogenic type, massive, semi-massive, stringer, and disseminated sulphides within deformed metavolcanic-sedimentary rocks. A later-stage gold overprint event has emplaced high-grade gold mineralization. The Preliminary Economic Assessment technical report (the "PEA Technical Report") dated March 30, 2023, entitled: "Cabacal Gold-Copper Project NI 43-101 Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment, Mato Grosso, Brazil" outlines a base case after-tax NPV5 of USD 573 million and 58.4% IRR from a pre-production capital cost of USD 180 million, leading to capital repayment in 10.6 months (assuming metals price scenario of USD 1,650 per ounces of gold, USD 3.59 per pound of copper, and USD 21.35 per ounce of silver). Cabacal has a low All-in-Sustaining-Cost of USD 671 per ounce gold equivalent for the first five years, driven by high metallurgical recovery, a low life-of-mine strip ratio of 2.1:1, and the low operating cost environment of Brazil (see press release dated March 6, 2023). The Cabacal Mineral Resource estimate consists of Indicated resources of 52.9 million tonnes at 0.6g/t gold, 0.3% copper and 1.4g/t silver and Inferred resources of 10.3 million tonnes at 0.7g/t gold, 0.2% copper & 1.1g/t silver (at a 0.3 g/t gold equivalent cut-off grade), including a higher-grade near-surface zone supporting a starter pit. Readers are encouraged to read the PEA Technical Report in its entirety. The PEA Technical Report may be found on the Company's website at www.meridianmining.co and under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The qualified persons for the PEA Technical Report are: Robert Raponi (P. Eng), Principal Metallurgist with Ausenco Engineering), Scott Elfen (P. E.), Global Lead Geotechnical and Civil Services with Ausenco Engineering), Simon Tear (PGeo, EurGeol), Principal Geological Consultant of H&SC, Marcelo Batelochi, (MAusIMM, CP Geo), Geological Consultant of MB Geologia Ltda, Joseph Keane (Mineral Processing Engineer; P.E), of SGS, and Guilherme Gomides Ferreira (Mine Engineer MAIG) of GE21 Consultoria Mineral. On behalf of the Board of Directors of Meridian Mining UK S Mr. Gilbert Clark - CEO and Director Meridian Mining UK S Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Ph: +1 778 715-6410 (PST) Stay up to date by subscribing for news alerts here: https://meridianmining.co/contact/ Follow Meridian on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MeridianMining Further information can be found at: www.meridianmining.co Technical Notes Samples have been analysed at SGS laboratory in Belo Horizonte. Samples are dried, crushed with 75% passing <3 mm, split to give a mass of 250-300g, pulverized with 95% passing 150#. Gold analyses are conducted by FAA505 (fire assay of a 50g charge), and base metal analysis by methods ICP40B and ICP40B_S (four acid digest with ICP-OES finish). Visible gold intervals are sampled by metallic screen fire assay method MET150-FAASCR. Samples are held in the Company's secure facilities until dispatched and delivered by staff and commercial couriers to the laboratory. Pulps and coarse rejects are retained and returned to the Company for storage. The Company submits a range of quality control samples, including blanks and gold and polymetallic standards supplied by Rocklabs, ITAK and OREAS, supplementing laboratory quality control procedures. Approximately 5% of archived samples are sent for umpire laboratory analysis, including any lots exhibiting QAQC outliers after discussion with the laboratory. In BP Minerals sampling, gold was analysed historically by fire assay and base metals by three acid digest and ICP finish at the Nomos laboratory in Rio de Janeiro. Silver was analysed by aqua regia digest with an atomic absorption finish. True width is considered to be 80-90% of intersection width. Assay figures and intervals are rounded to 1 decimal place. Gold equivalents for Cabacal are calculated as: AuEq(g/t) = (Au(g/t) * %Recovery) + (1.492*(Cu% * %Recovery)) + (0.013*(Ag(g/t) * %Recovery)), where: Au_recovery_ppm = 5.4368ln(Au_Grade_ppm)+88.856 Cu_recovery_pct = 2.0006ln(Cu_Grade_pct)+94.686 Ag_recovery_ppm = 13.342ln(Ag_Grade_ppm)+71.037 Recoveries based on 2022 metallurgical testwork on core submitted to SGS Lakefield Qualified Person Mr. Erich Marques, B.Sc., MAIG, Chief Geologist of Meridian Mining and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed, and verified the technical information in this news release. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information or forward-looking statements for the purposes of applicable securities laws. These statements address future events and conditions and so involve inherent risks and uncertainties, as disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Meridian's most recent Annual Information Form filed on www.sedarplus.ca. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by Meridian, in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, Meridian can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Meridian disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or results or otherwise. Table 1: Assays reported in this press release. Assays reported in this press release. Hole-id Dip Azi EOH (m) Zone Int (m) AuEq (g/t) CuEq (%) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) From (m) CD-427 -49 062 97.3 SCZ 10.0 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.5 20.0 5.1 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 48.9 22.6 1.4 0.9 0.4 0.7 3.4 59.5 Including 8.8 2.8 1.9 0.6 1.5 7.5 64.4 Including 1.7 11.6 7.8 2.3 6.1 32.3 66.4 CD-419 -58 039 110.2 SCZ 9.9 0.3 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.5 18.3 3.2 1.5 1.0 0.1 1.0 1.7 44.0 4.8 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.5 52.7 15.1 0.7 0.5 0.2 0.4 1.2 79.1 CD-417 -50 062 51.2 CWNE 4.7 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.4 24.7 3.7 0.8 0.5 0.4 0.3 3.9 32.9 CD-415 -50 061 49.7 CWNE 1.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.0 4.7 0.9 0.8 0.6 0.3 0.4 8.1 30.6 CD-414 -64 043 88.7 SCZ 3.6 0.5 0.3 0.0 0.4 0.5 18.3 6.2 0.4 0.3 0.0 0.3 0.5 28.9 4.1 3.3 2.2 1.7 1.1 4.7 42.1 Including 1.3 7.8 5.3 4.8 2.1 10.6 44.9 21.9 0.9 0.6 0.4 0.4 1.9 53.1 CD-413 -50 060 96.4 CWNE 8.2 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.6 41.0 8.4 1.5 1.0 0.2 0.9 1.8 73.7 Including 1.1 6.6 4.4 1.1 3.8 5.1 74.7 CD-412 -46 060 59.7 CWNE 2.0 0.5 0.4 0.1 0.3 5.0 21.0 CD-410 -50 062 49.7 CWNE 1.7 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.3 2.6 21.5 CD-408 -49 058 117.4 CWNE 13.1 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.3 66.6 Including 1.7 2.3 1.5 0.5 1.3 0.5 75.9 14.1 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.3 0.4 87.5 Including 2.2 1.6 1.1 0.3 0.9 1.1 95.6 CD-406 -50 060 41.5 CWNE NSI Hole-id Dip Azi EOH (m) Zone Int (m) AuEq (g/t) CuEq (%) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Ag (g/t) From (m) CD-404 -50 059 139.4 CWNE 1.3 1.6 1.1 1.5 0.1 0.2 24.4 9.3 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.7 43.1 30.5 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.5 57.0 Including 1.6 3.5 2.4 0.3 2.2 3.3 64.7 4.1 0.5 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.1 92.7 20.4 1.1 0.7 0.4 0.5 0.8 101.2 Including 3.8 3.6 2.4 1.3 1.7 2.2 113.5 CD-400 -59 042 106.9 CCZ 4.4 0.3 0.2 0.0 0.2 1.0 7.4 14.4 0.6 0.4 0.1 0.4 0.9 23.2 25.8 1.4 0.9 0.9 0.4 2.2 48.0 Including 9.5 2.9 1.9 1.7 0.9 5.5 62.5 6.3 0.9 0.6 0.2 0.4 2.7 87.4 CD-399 -50 059 153.6 CWNE 22.3 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 29.7 15.3 1.7 1.1 0.3 1.0 1.6 125.5 Including 5.1 4.0 2.7 0.6 2.4 3.2 126.1 CD-398 -49 062 61.4 CWNE 12.3 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.2 4.4 26.7 CD-397 -60 043 136.4 SCZ 5.9 0.4 0.3 0.0 0.3 1.1 33.4 33.7 0.6 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.6 74.1 Including 1.9 2.1 1.4 1.9 0.2 0.5 86.1 11.5 0.4 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.6 113.5 CD-396 -50 060 136.8 CWNE 2.7 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.3 19.3 7.6 0.7 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.9 32.4 15.6 0.8 0.5 0.2 0.4 0.8 44.4 Including 3.0 1.8 1.2 0.2 1.1 1.9 52.6 10.5 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 68.6 3.2 1.1 0.7 0.5 0.5 1.7 86.6 8.7 2.0 1.4 0.9 0.8 2.6 95.0 Including 1.6 7.1 4.8 3.1 2.8 8.6 98.1 10.1 1.3 0.9 0.3 0.7 1.1 118.3 Including 1.7 4.1 2.8 0.8 2.3 3.1 121.4 TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Revival Gold Inc. (TSXV: RVG, OTCQX: RVLGF) (Revival Gold or the Company) is pleased to announce the expansion of its land position, the results of recent geophysical and geological work, and the advance of exploration on a newly defined target area known as Sharkey on the Companys Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project (Beartrack-Arnett) located in Idaho, USA. Highlights Fifty-seven lode claims encompassing 476 hectares have been staked to increase Revival Golds land position on prospective exploration ground at the south end of Beartrack-Arnett (see Figure 1 for details); 18-line kilometers of IP geophysics along with 16-line kilometers of CSAMT geophysics collected over multiple campaigns at Beartrack between 1990 and 1996 were reprocessed with present-day algorithms to produce a consistent set of 2-D inversion products; The reprocessed geophysical data together with results from last seasons soil geochemistry survey and recent Leapfrog software-based geological and structural modeling has further clarified Revival Golds understanding of the geology and structure in the Panther Creek-Coiner Fault System; The Panther Creek-Coiner Fault System extends approximately five kilometers south of the Joss Zone at Beartrack-Arnett and is now thought to be an anastomosing (or braided) fault system that is typical of the structures that host many orogenic gold deposits; Potential targets in braided shear zones include bends, or changes in strike, and structural intersections of the various structures within the broader structural system, and multiple strands of the shear zone may be mineralized; and, Chief among the newly defined targets is Sharkey located within the Panther Creek Structural Corridor approximately two kilometers south of the existing underground mineralization in the Joss target area. Revival Golds recent work analysing and modeling geophysical and geological data from the south end of Beartrack-Arnett has sharpened our exploration teams focus on the Panther Creek-Coiner Fault braided fault system, said Hugh Agro, President & CEO. The Sharkey target has emerged as a high-value under-cover target with tonnage and grade potential equivalent to, and perhaps greater than, what we have at Joss. Sharkey lies within Revival Golds approved Plan of Operations permit for drilling at Beartrack-Arnett and represents a high-priority target for follow-up exploration this season, added Agro. Further Details The Beartrack-Arnett Project consists of two orogenic gold systems with a Measured & Indicated Mineral Resource of 86.2 million tonnes at 0.87 g/T gold containing 2.42 million ounces of gold, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 50.7 million tonnes at 1.34 g/T gold containing 2.19 million ounces of gold (see Preliminary Feasibility Study NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Beartrack-Arnett Heap Leach Project, Lemhi County, Idaho, USA, prepared by Kappes, Cassidy & Associates, Independent Mining Consultants, Inc., KC Harvey Environmental LLC, and WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc. dated August 2nd, 2023). Most of the Beartrack-Arnett Mineral Resource is contained within five deposits at Beartrack distributed over more than five kilometers of strike of the Panther Creek Shear Zone (PCSZ). Gold has been encountered in all Revival Gold drill holes intersecting the PCSZ, and the structure has been drill-tested over a vertical distance of 750 meters. The high-grade, potentially underground mineable resource at Joss (6.7 million tonnes of Inferred Mineral Resource at 4.0 g/T gold containing 877,000 ounces of gold), has been drilled for over 400 meters vertically and mineralization is open in all directions. The most favorable host rocks at Beartrack are Mesoproterozoic siltites and silty quartzites. These units are mineralized in the South Pit ore body and at Joss, where grades are generally highest. These units extend to the south and are exposed along the margins of the Leesburg Basin. Revival Golds IP and reprocessed CSAMT geophysical lines effectively map contrasting resistivities between the post-mineralization (Tertiary and Quaternary) Leesburg Basin fill sequence and the Mesoproterozoic host rocks. In the Joss area, mineralization occurs immediately east of a post-mineral Basin bounding fault (Coiner Fault). The structure is effectively mapped by the CSAMT and can be projected for approximately five kilometers south of Joss (see Figure 2 for details). The Coiner Fault, and associated mineralization, is not exposed south of the South Pit due to extensive post-mineralization Tertiary sedimentary and volcanic cover in the Leesburg Basin. The post-mineralization cover obscures geology and presents an intriguing exploration opportunity as any mineralization in this area is not exposed. The intersection of the Coiner Fault and the Arnett structure is also an exploration target. This is the deepest portion of the Leesburg Basin but represents a large area of favorable structural preparation. In addition to the recently reprocessed geophysics, Revival Gold conducted a soil survey during the 2023 field season to characterize the soil geochemistry over the Coiner Fault. 119 soil samples were taken over the approximate trace of the fault. Overall, the soil survey showed a general trend of increasing gold, arsenic, and mercury from south to north. A spatially coherent anomaly over the structure was, however, not detected. In 2020 Revival Gold drilled three core holes approximately 1.2 to 2.2 kilometers south of the southern Joss drill fence to explore the intersection of the Arnett Creek structure with the Coiner Fault. Difficult drilling conditions prevented the holes from testing a significant thickness of the target stratigraphy. The holes are thought to have encountered the trough of the Leesburg Basin but were drilled west of the Coiner Fault based on Revival Golds current CSAMT interpretation. In 2021 Revival Gold continued exploring both Joss and the southern extension of the Coiner Fault south of Joss. One core hole was drilled approximately 500 meters south of the southern Joss drill fence. Based on Revival Golds current understanding of the Joss deposit architecture, this hole is believed to have passed over the top of the mineralized horizon intercepting 73 meters of the target Mesoproterozoic stratigraphy before passing back into the post-mineral basin fill. Anomalous gold (high of 0.048 ppm) and arsenic (high of 185 ppm) were intercepted within the target stratigraphy associated with sericitic alteration and quartz veining. Revival Golds 2020 and 2021 drilling leaves the southern extension of the Coiner Fault System untested and worthy of further exploration. An additional program of field mapping, infill geophysics, and scout drilling, is being prepared to further evaluate the structural corridor south of Joss. Figure 1: Panther Creek-Coiner Fault System Showing Claim Additions and the Sharkey Target Figure 2: Perspective View of Reprocessed CSAMT Resistivity Showing Key Structures 2023 Mineral Resource Blocks > 2 g/t Au Qualified Persons Steven T. Priesmeyer, C.P.G., Vice President Exploration, and Dan Pace, Regis. Mem. SME, Chief Geologist, Revival Gold Inc., are the Companys designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and have reviewed and approved its scientific and technical content. About Revival Gold Inc. Revival Gold is a growth-focused gold exploration and development company. The Company is advancing the Beartrack-Arnett Gold Project located in Idaho, USA. Beartrack-Arnett is the largest past-producing gold mine in Idaho. The Project benefits from extensive existing infrastructure and is the subject of a recent Preliminary Feasibility Study for the potential restart of open pit heap leach gold production operations. Since reassembling the Beartrack-Arnett land position in 2017, Revival Gold has made one of the largest new discoveries of gold in the United States in the past decade. The mineralized trend at Beartrack extends for over five kilometers and is open on strike and at depth. Mineralization at Arnett is open in all directions. Additional disclosure including the Companys financial statements, technical reports, news releases and other information can be obtained at www.revival-gold.com or on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. For further information, please contact: Hugh Agro, President & CEO or Lisa Ross, CFO, telephone: (416) 366-4100 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Cautionary Statement 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. This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. securities legislation (collectively forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Companys future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as believes, anticipates, expects, estimates, may, could, would, will, or plan. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet managements expectations. Risks, uncertainties, and other factors involved with forward-looking statements could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this document include, but are not limited to, the Companys objectives, goals and future plans, and statements of intent, the implications of exploration results, mineral resource/reserve estimates and the economic analysis thereof, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations, estimates of market conditions, and statements regarding the results of the pre-feasibility study, including the anticipated capital and operating costs, sustaining costs, net present value, internal rate of return, payback period, process capacity, average annual metal production, average process recoveries, concession renewal, permitting of the project, anticipated mining and processing methods, proposed pre-feasibility study production schedule and metal production profile, anticipated construction period, anticipated mine life, expected recoveries and grades, anticipated production rates, infrastructure, social and environmental impact studies, availability of labour, tax rates and commodity prices that would support development of the Project. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to failure to identify mineral resources, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, the inability to maintain the modelling and assumptions upon which the interpretation of results are based after further testing, the inability to complete a feasibility study which recommends a production decision, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, changes in regulatory requirements, political and social risks, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, uncertainties or challenges related to mineral title in the Companys projects, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity and in particular gold prices, delays in the development of projects, capital, operating and reclamation costs varying significantly from estimates, the continued availability of capital, accidents and labour disputes, and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, an inability to raise additional funding, the manner the Company uses its cash or the proceeds of an offering of the Companys securities, an inability to predict and counteract the effects of COVID-19 on the business of the Company, including but not limited to the effects of COVID-19 on the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains, future climatic conditions, the discovery of new, large, low-cost mineral deposits, the general level of global economic activity, disasters or environmental or climatic events which affect the infrastructure on which the project is dependent, and those risks set out in the Companys public documents filed on SEDAR+. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Specific reference is made to the most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR+ for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect the Companys ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this presentation. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. HALIFAX, NS, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - Fortune Bay Corp. (TSXV: FOR) (FWB: 5QN) (OTCQB: FTBYF) ("Fortune Bay" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the acquisition of two additional uranium projects through staking on the north-central margin of the Athabasca Basin, in proximity to the Company's recently announced Spruce, Pine and Aspen Uranium Projects (Figure 1). Gareth Garlick, Technical Director for Fortune Bay, commented "The acquisition of the Birch and Fir projects adds to our growing uranium portfolio of newly acquired, 100% owned projects on the north-central margin of the Athabasca Basin. This extensive portfolio now totals five new uranium projects covering over 40,000 hectares and provides Fortune Bay with further opportunity to create value through exploration and/or transactional success. The Birch and Fir projects have known uranium endowment with historical occurrences of up to 55.1% U 3 O 8 , in addition to Rare Earth Element potential with historical outcrop grades of up to 2.4% Total Rare Earth Elements." In addition, the Company reports on progress for its Murmac and Strike Uranium Projects ("Murmac" and "Strike"), located on the north-western margin of the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan, for which an Option Agreement was recently signed. Dale Verran, CEO for Fortune Bay, commented, "We are delighted with the progress Aero Energy Limited has made for Murmac and Strike, with exploration drilling planned to commence in the coming months. Together with Aero's award-winning technical advisory team, operational planning and prioritization of drill targets is well underway. Murmac and Strike present significant opportunity for the discovery of high-grade, basement-hosted uranium and we look forward to working with Aero to advance exploration, while retaining upside in future discovery." Newly Staked Uranium Projects Birch Project The Birch Uranium Project ("Birch") comprises four mineral claims totalling 5,751 hectares located approximately 35 kilometres north of the Athabasca Basin margin, and has potential for unconformity-related, basement-hosted deposits and bulk tonnage Rossing-style uranium deposits. Birch remains underexplored with no drilling to date. As follow-up to Government regional airborne radiometric surveys, historical prospecting between 1968 and 1970 identified widespread and voluminous uranium-bearing pegmatites in the Box Lake Area (Figure 1 Birch Project Block A). Individual pegmatites were traced over lengths exceeding 150 metres and widths exceeding 30 metres, with average sampled grades ranging from 200 to 300 ppm. Notably, higher grades were also recorded where structures could be sampled with grades between 0.22% and 0.36% U 3 O 8 . Uranium mineralization included uraninite and carnotite staining. Exploration is warranted to, 1) re-investigate the pegmatite uranium occurrences, 2) establish the nature and extent of the structurally-associated higher grade uranium mineralization (which would be expected to predominantly occur in low-lying areas with sediment/water cover), and 3) explore for extensions of these two types of mineralization to the south-southwest into a large favorable hinge zone target area of structural complexity which appears to be largely unexplored. To the south (Figure 1 Birch Project Block B), ground radiometric anomalies were identified during historical prospecting at Miller Lake (equivalent uranium grades of up to 861 ppm eU), within a smaller hinge zone, also warranting modern follow-up. Fir Project The Fir Uranium Project ("Fir") comprises a single mineral claim of 794 hectares located approximately ten kilometres north of the Athabasca Basin margin, and has potential for unconformity-related, basement-hosted deposits and bulk tonnage Rossing-style uranium deposits. Fir remains underexplored with no drilling to date. A historical pebble sample assayed 55.06% U 3 O 8 , one of several radioactive pebbles found in a low-lying area covered by muskeg. An additional historical uranium occurrence of 0.24% U 3 O 8 from an outcrop sample is present 400 metres to the southeast. The area is characterized by interpreted structural complexity at the intersection of east and northeast trending structures. Follow-up of the occurrence was limited to localized prospecting, and the occurrence warrants more detailed systematic follow-up, particularly in low-lying areas with surficial cover where structures are likely to exist. In addition to the uranium potential, pegmatite outcrops enriched in Rare Earth Elements ("REE") were discovered during historical prospecting for uranium. This included an outcrop sample of 2.4% Total Rare Earth Elements ("TREE"), and a 400 x 200 m outcrop of "white granodiorite" displaying broadly elevated TREE content and highlight grades from four samples of 1.1% to 1.9% TREE. High-value Nd and Pr account for approximately 20% of the TREE content. These historical REE occurrences warrant follow-up to determine the extent and grades of the mineralization. Far northern Saskatchewan has a precedent for high-grade pegmatite REE deposits, including Alces Lake (grades up to 30% TREE), Bear Lake (16% TREE rock sample), and Hoidas Lake (historical NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate including 2.6 million tonnes at 2% TREE). Similar to other recently announced uranium projects, Fortune Bay may seek to find a suitable partner/s to advance the Birch and Fir Projects through an earn-in, or similar agreement, that provides Fortune Bay with upside in future discovery. Murmac and Strike Update: On December 18, 2023 Fortune Bay Corp. announced that it had entered into an "Option Agreement" whereby 1443904 B .C. Ltd., an arms-length private company, was granted the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the wholly-owned Murmac and Strike Uranium Projects over a three-and-a-half-year period by funding C$6 million in exploration expenditures, making cash payments totalling C$1.35 million , and issuing C$2.15 million in common shares following completion of a going public transaction (see News Release for further details) Fortune Bay Corp. announced that it had entered into an "Option Agreement" whereby .C. Ltd., an arms-length private company, was granted the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the wholly-owned Murmac and Strike Uranium Projects over a three-and-a-half-year period by funding in exploration expenditures, making cash payments totalling , and issuing in common shares following completion of a going public transaction (see News Release for further details) On February 8, 2024 , Aero Energy Limited (TSXV: AERO) (OTC Pink: AAUGF) (FSE: 13L0) ("Aero") completed the acquisition of 1443904 B .C. Ltd. pursuant to the terms of a share purchase agreement, thereby completing the going public transaction. Concurrent with completion of the acquisition, the Company has changed its name from "Angold Resources Ltd." to "Aero Energy Limited". , Aero Energy Limited (TSXV: AERO) (OTC Pink: AAUGF) (FSE: 13L0) ("Aero") completed the acquisition of .C. Ltd. pursuant to the terms of a share purchase agreement, thereby completing the going public transaction. Concurrent with completion of the acquisition, the Company has changed its name from "Angold Resources Ltd." to "Aero Energy Limited". On February 13, 2024 Aero announced a non-brokered private placement for aggregate gross proceeds of $5,000,000 . The gross proceeds received from the sale of the Flow-Through units and the Charity Units will be used for work programs on Aero's optioned properties including Murmac, Strike and Sun Dog (owned by Standard Uranium Ltd.), all located along the northwestern margin of the Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan . Aero announced a non-brokered private placement for aggregate gross proceeds of . The gross proceeds received from the sale of the Flow-Through units and the Charity Units will be used for work programs on Aero's optioned properties including Murmac, Strike and Sun Dog (owned by Standard Uranium Ltd.), all located along the northwestern margin of the Basin of . In accordance with the Option Agreement Fortune Bay has received the initial $200,000 cash payment and the initial $200,000 in common shares (1,333,333 shares using a transaction price of $0.15 per share). cash payment and the initial in common shares (1,333,333 shares using a transaction price of per share). Planning is ongoing for drilling programs to commence at Murmac and Strike during 2024 on numerous high-priority targets that have been identified with the potential for a high-grade basement-hosted uranium discovery. Correction to Previously Announced Deferred Share Unit Grant On January 10, 2024, the Company announced the grant of Deferred Share Units ("DSUs") to certain directors and officers. It was noted that 150,000 DSUs were granted to the directors of the Company to settle director fees for the year ended December 31, 2023. The number of DSUs granted should have been stated to be 200,000. The DSUs will vest in accordance with the Company's deferred share unit plan. Technical Disclosure The historical results contained within this news release have not been verified and there is a risk that any future confirmation work and exploration may produce results that substantially differ from the historical results. The Company also cautions that historical results on adjacent properties are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved on the Project. The Company considers these historical results relevant to assess the mineralization and economic potential of the property. Further details regarding the historical occurrences mentioned in this news release can be found within the Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index ("SMDI") using the reference numbers provided in Figure 1. Additional information has been obtained from historical reports found within Saskatchewan Mineral Assessment Database ("SMAD") with the following Assessment File Numbers 74O10-0002, 74O10-0003, 74O10-0008 (Birch Project), and 74O09-0023, MAW02300 (Fir Project). Details regarding the other REE occurrences in far northern Saskatchewan can be found using the following references/links: Alces Lake: Appia Rare Earths and Uranium Corp. (https://appiareu.com/alces-lake/); Bear Lake: SMDI#3571; Hoidas Lake: SMDI#1612. Qualified Person The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Gareth Garlick, P.Geo., Technical Director of the Company, who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Garlick is an employee of Fortune Bay and is not independent of the Company under NI 43-101. About Fortune Bay Corp. Fortune Bay Corp. (TSXV:FOR, FWB:5QN, OTCQB:FTBYF) is an exploration and development company with 100% ownership in two advanced gold exploration projects in Canada, Saskatchewan (Goldfields Project) and Mexico, Chiapas (Ixhuatan Project), both with exploration and development potential. The Company is also advancing seven uranium exploration projects on the northern rim of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, which have high-grade potential. The Company has a goal of building a mid-tier exploration and development Company through the advancement of its existing projects and the strategic acquisition of new projects to create a pipeline of growth opportunities. The Company's corporate strategy is driven by a Board and Management team with a proven track record of discovery, project development and value creation. Further information on Fortune Bay and its assets can be found on the Company's website at www.fortunebaycorp.com or by contacting us as This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone at 902-334-1919. On behalf of Fortune Bay Corp. "Dale Verran" Chief Executive Officer 902-334-1919 Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions, and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Words such as "expects", "aims", "anticipates", "targets", "goals", "projects", "intends", "plans", "believes", "seeks", "estimates", "continues", "may", variations of such words, and similar expressions and references to future periods, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company's objectives, goals, intentions or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to failure to identify targets or mineralization, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, inability to fulfill the duty to accommodate First Nations and other indigenous peoples, inability to reach access agreements with other Project communities, amendments to applicable mining laws, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing or partnerships needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDAR+. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. For more information on Fortune Bay, readers should refer to Fortune Bay's website at www.fortunebaycorp.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CASA GRANDE, Ariz. & TORONTO / Feb 21, 2024 / Business Wire / Arizona Sonoran Copper Company Inc. (TSX:ASCU | OTCQX:ASCUF) (ASCU or the Company) today announced it has completed its NI 43-101 Prefeasibility Study (PFS) for its Cactus Project in Arizona, USA. The Standalone PFS outlines a lower risk, top 10 potential copper operation in the domestic USA, producing LME Grade A copper cathodes onsite via heap leach and a Solvent Extraction/Electrowinning (SXEW) plant. All dollar amounts referenced herein in US dollars, and all references to tons are short tons, unless otherwise noted. The Company intends to file a technical report (the Technical Report) in respect of the PFS in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Companys issuer profile and the Companys website within 45 days of the date of this news release. A webinar will be held on February 22, 2024, at 10:00 am ET. Please join George Ogilvie, Nick Nikolakakis, Bernie Loyer and Anthony Bottrill in discussion of the PFS and the Companys next steps by registering here https://www.bigmarker.com/vid-conferences/ASCU-VID-THF. Cactus PFS Highlights Scalable, Long-Life Operations Average annual production of approximately 55 ktons or 110 million pounds (lbs) of copper (Cu), with a peak of 74 ktons or 149 million pounds of copper of approximately 55 ktons or 110 million pounds (lbs) of copper (Cu), with a peak of 74 ktons or 149 million pounds of copper Initial Life of Mine (LOM) 21 years, recovering 1,153 ktons or 2.31 billion pounds of Copper LME Grade A cathode onsite via heap leach facility and SXEW 21 years, recovering 1,153 ktons or 2.31 billion pounds of Copper LME Grade A cathode onsite via heap leach facility and SXEW Maiden Proven & Probable (P&P) Reserves of 276.3 million tons at 0.48% Soluble Copper (Cu TSol) or 3.0 Billion lbs Copper Favourable metallurgy with a range of 85%-92% LOM average soluble copper recoveries with a range of 85%-92% LOM average soluble copper recoveries Private land ownership with streamlined permitting process ownership with streamlined permitting process Low carbon footprint mining project: Powered by an existing 69 KV Transmission line with access to Green Energy through the Palo Verde Nuclear Plant West of Phoenix for costs of $0.07/kWh Heap Leach and SXEW Process Conveyors and radial stackers used to move ore to leach pads mining project: Robust Economics First quartile capital intensity of $10,343/tonne of average annual production of $10,343/tonne of average annual production Total initial capital cost of $515 million, including $75 million of contingencies over an 18-24 month construction period of $515 million, including $75 million of contingencies over an 18-24 month construction period Total revenues of $9.0 billion over 21 years Post-tax unlevered Free Cash Flow of $2.4 billion C1 Cash Costs of $1.84/lb and All in Sustaining Cost (AISC) of $2.34/lb of $1.84/lb and (AISC) of $2.34/lb Post-tax net present value (NPV) $509 million (CA$687 million) using an 8% discount rate and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 15.3% and using a $3.90/lb flat long-term copper price Pre-tax NPV $733 million (CA$990 million) (NPV) using an 8% discount rate and an internal rate of return (IRR) of 15.3% and using a $3.90/lb flat long-term copper price Post-tax payback period of 6.8 years from initial production of 6.8 years from initial production At $4.25/lb Copper the NPV increases to $780 million post-tax (CA$1,054 million) and $1,064 million pre-tax (CA$1,436 million), using an 8% discount rate Significant Copper Project in the USA Proven & Probable (P&P) Reserves of 276.3 million tons at 0.48% Soluble Copper (Cu TSol) or 3.0 Billion lbs Copper Underground Proven Reserve grade of 0.89% and 0.82% Cu TSol from Cactus East and Parks/Salyer, respectively Measured & Indicated Resources of 5.2 billion lbs Copper and Inferred Resources of 2.2 billion lbs Copper (as announced October 16, 2023) (inclusive of reserves) Future Opportunities to Further Improve Business Case Drilling to upgrade known inferred resources and bring them into the mine plan potentially increasing the LOM production, reducing underground development costs, operating expenses, capital expenses and overall strip ratio Drilling to prove a maiden resource at MainSpring as a potential open pit providing operational flexibility and gaining lower cost access to the Parks/Salyer deposit. Bringing MainSpring into the mine plan potentially improves operational and financial synergies within the Cactus Project Continued exploration success on the Cactus Project in the Gap Zone, below the envelope of the existing Cactus West Open Pit Shell and in the North-East Extension. Nuton LLCs (Nuton") leaching technology driving primary sulphide optionality, currently excluded from the mine plan George Ogilvie, ASCU President and CEO commented, The 55,000-ton Copper Cathode per annum mine plan presented in the PFS illustrates an achievable long-life operation with robust economics and an opportunity for continued scaling of the asset. Our operation has the potential to be among the top 10 copper operations within the US, supplying the domestic supply chain with copper cathodes in the near term. With global copper mine disruptions occurring and a structural deficit currently underway, our timing to develop the asset has a high likelihood to coincide with much higher copper incentive prices. As compared to the original PEA, the PFS demonstrates a significant increase of free cash flow at a conservative long-term copper price assumption of $3.90 per pound. He continued, A real organic growth opportunity exists within our 5,370 acres at the MainSpring Property. Based on initial drilling of our MainSpring property there are early indications for Mainspring to be the southern near surface extension of our Parks/Salyer deposit and thus will be a focus of drilling in 2024. Through our 2024 drilling programs, our team has the potential to convert the 1.3 billion pounds of leachable inferred resources of copper to the indicated resources category, contributing to an extended mine life. Over and above, ASCU also looks forward to the continued metallurgical testing and incorporation of the Nuton technology to our Cactus flowsheet, which if executed, lowers our cost of capital, provides a funding partner for the initial capex and ongoing operating costs, as well as provides execution support from a top global mining partner. With this cornerstone now placed, we are excited to continue building Cactus, which today is a significant asset, with plenty of future optionality to continue upgrading the asset with scale. Bernie Loyer, ASCU SVP Projects notes Our Cactus Project PFS demonstrates a solid business case, and the potential to deliver a long-life operation utilizing a well-established and industry proven process technology in the treatment of ore from four separate and well understood feed sources. All situated on privately held ground, this brownfield project site located within 45 minutes of the Phoenix city center which is the 10th largest metropolitan area within the United States, is wrapped with an enviable complement of all required infrastructure. Add to all of that, a project team with a strong combination of project and operational experience on complex mining projects throughout North and South America, and the foundation for the Cactus Project and future operation is well-placed. Pre-Feasibility Summary The 2024 PFS outlines a lower risk and long-life copper project with low first quartile capital intensity. The heap leach operation will produce on average 55 kstpa of LME Grade A copper cathodes via SXEW. Key metrics are shown in TABLE 1 below. Conventional open pit mining methods have been selected for the extraction of oxide and secondary sulphide material from the lower grade Cactus West pit, while the higher-grade Parks/Salyer and Cactus East deposits will be mined via underground using the Sublevel Caving (SLC) method from the 1,500 ft (457 m) and 1,200 ft (366 m) levels, respectively. Reserve grades of the Parks/Salyer and Cactus East deposits are high grade, at 0.93% CuT and 0.95% CuT, and 0.82% Cu TSol and 0.89% Cu TSol, respectively. The Stockpile will be a rehandling exercise moving low grade tonnage to a lined pad for leaching. Onsite facilities at the mine site will consist of an open pit, underground mining operations, a fine crushing plant incorporating all crushing, classification, agglomeration and conveying systems and an SXEW process plant. On site supporting infrastructure will include site power distribution, access roads and heap leach facilities. Table 1: 2024 PFS Highlights Financial Metrics Unit PFS LOM Copper Price Assumption $/lb $3.90 Revenue $ millions $8,994 Operating Costs* $ millions $4,029 EBITDA $ millions $4,746 Unlevered FCF (pre-tax) $ millions $3,099 Unlevered FCF (post-tax) $ millions $2,407 Base Case Economics Pre-tax NPV (8%) $ millions $733 Pre-tax IRR $ millions 17.7% NPV / Initial Capital (post-tax) Ratio 1:1 Post-tax NPV (8%) $ millions $509 Post-tax IRR % 15.3% Post-tax Payback Period** Years 6.8 Initial Capital $ millions $515 Sustaining Capital (primarily UG) $ millions $1,221 Effective Tax Rate % 22.3% Production Construction Period Months 18-24 Mine Life Years 21 Total Mineralized Material Millions tons 276.3 Cu Avg Production (Years 1-5) Millions lbs/year 100 Cu Avg Production (Years 6-10) Millions lbs/year 105 Cu Avg Production (Years 11-15) Millions lbs/year 136 Average Annual LOM Production Millions lbs / ktons 110 / 55 Total Payable Copper Million lbs 2,306 Average Head Grade % Cu TSol 0.48% Open Pit Strip Ratio Waste:Ore 1.96 Costs LOM C1 Cash Costs*** $/Cu lb $1.84 LOM All-in Sustaining Costs**** $/Cu lb $2.34 Mining Open Pit $/ ton mined $2.20 Underground $/ ton mined $20.21 Leaching & Processing $/ ton placed $2.96 General & Administrative $/ ton placed $0.12 kt = thousands of short tons; kstpa = thousands of short tons per annum FOREX Conversion = US $1.00 = CA $1.35 * Operating cash costs consist of mining costs, processing costs, and G&A ** Payback period exclusive of construction *** Total cash costs consist of operating cash costs plus transportation cost, royalties, treatment and refining charges **** AISC consist of total cash costs plus sustaining capital, closure cost and salvage value TABLE 2: Pre- and Post-Tax Sensitivity to the Copper Price $3.75 $3.90 $4.00 $4.25 $4.50 $4.75 Pre-tax NPV (8%) , $m $592 $733 $828 $1,064 $1,299 $1,535 Post-tax NPV (8%) , $m $389 $509 $587 $780 $971 $1,162 IRR, % 13.6% 15.3% 16.5% 19.3% 22.1% 24.9% Payback years1 7.4 6.8 6.4 5.7 5.2 4.8 1 Payback period calculated starting from start of commercial production Project Overview The Cactus Mine Project is a brownfield project located approximately 6 mi (10 km) northwest of the city of Casa Grande and 40 road miles south-southwest of the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona. The Cactus Mine Project is accessible on North Bianco Road off of West Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway with direct access to interstate highway 10. During historic ASARCO operations (1974-1984), a rail spur was connected directly with the United Pacific Railroad to ship concentrates to its El Paso refinery in Texas; while the spur has been removed, the onsite rail line is still in existence. Current onsite infrastructure includes power lines and substation, water wells and a water pond, geological buildings, core sheds and administrative offices, keeping the capital intensity low and demonstrating robust economics. Since 2019, ASCU has drilled 141 new holes at the Cactus West and East deposits to support verification, metallurgical testing, and resource extension for the Cactus mineral resource estimate. The Parks/Salyer resource database is composed primarily of 74 new holes drilled by ASCU between late 2020 and 2023. The historical ASARCO holes for the district comprised of 171 drillholes. The bulk of these holes were in the Cactus West and Cactus East deposits or comprised regional exploration holes. An extensive verification and re-assay programs were undertaken to support the use of historical drilling in resource estimates. Since 2020, ASCU has drilled 514 sonic drillholes to support resource estimates on the stockpile. In addition to verification of historical drilling, for all ASCU holes physical checks on collar, downhole survey, logging, and assay quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) have been completed by the qualified person. The Cactus Mine Project is host to a large porphyry copper system that has been dismembered and displaced by Tertiary extensional faulting. The major host rocks are Precambrian Oracle Granite and Laramide monzonite porphyry and quartz monzonite porphyry. The mine trend features the formation of horst and graben blocks of mineralization where the Cactus deposits are situated, extending from the Cactus East deposit, southwest to the Parks/Salyer deposit. Drilling to the northeast and southwest along the trend indicates that mineralization continues in both directions and at depth at the Cactus West deposit. Reserves and Resources The PFS is based on the updated 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE), as published on October 16, 2023, showing a 221% increase of leachable Measured and Indicated (M&I) pounds over the mineral resource base used in the 2021 PEA. The Mineral Resources and Reserves for the Cactus Mine Project are shown in TABLES 3 and 4 and illustrated in FIGURE 3 below. Table 3: Cactus Project Total Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource Material Type ktons (kt) CuT (%) TSol (%) Contained Cu (k lbs) Total Resources MEASURED Total Leachable 9,100 0.230 41,900 Total Primary 1,300 0.315 8,000 Total Measured 10,400 0.241 49,800 INDICATED Total Leachable 348,500 0.629 4,387,200 Total Primary 86,800 0.425 737,000 Total Indicated 435,300 0.589 5,124,200 M&I Total Leachable 357,600 0.619 4,429,000 Total Primary 88,000 0.423 745,000 Total M&I 445,700 0.580 5,174,000 INFERRED Total Leachable 107,700 0.607 1,307,900 Total Primary 126,200 0.357 900,000 Total Inferred 233,800 0.472 2,207,900 Notes: 1. Leachable copper grades are reported using sequential assaying to calculate the soluble copper grade. Primary copper grades are reported as total copper, Total category grades reported as weighted average copper grades of soluble copper grades for leachable material and total copper grades for primary material. Tons are reported as short tons. 2. Stockpile resource estimates have an effective date of 1 March 2022, Cactus resource estimates have an effective date of 29th April 2022, Parks/Salyer resource estimates have an effective date of 19th May 2023. All resources use a copper price of US$3.75/lb. 3. Technical and economic parameters defining resource pit shell: mining cost US$2.43/t; G&A US$0.55/t, 10% dilution, and 44-46 pit slope angle. 4. Technical and economic parameters defining underground resource: mining cost US$27.62/t, G&A US$0.55/t, and 5% dilution. 5. Technical and economic parameters defining processing: Oxide heap leach (HL) processing cost of US$2.24/t assuming 86.3% recoveries, enriched HL processing cost of US$2.13/t assuming 90.5% recoveries, Primary mill processing cost of US$8.50/t assuming 92% recoveries. HL selling cost of US$0.27/lb; Mill selling cost of US$0.62/lb. 6. Royalties of 3.18% and 2.5% apply to the ASCU properties and state land respectively. No royalties apply to the MainSpring (Parks/Salyer South) property. 7. For Cactus: Variable cutoff grades were reported depending on material type, potential mining method, and potential processing method. Oxide material within resource pit shell = 0.099% TSol; enriched material within resource pit shell = 0.092% TSol; primary material within resource pit shell = 0.226% CuT; oxide underground material outside resource pit shell = 0.549% TSol; enriched underground material outside resource pit shell = 0.522% TSol; primary underground material outside resource pit shell = 0.691% CuT. 8. For Parks/Salyer: Variable cut-off grades were reported depending on material type, associated potential processing method, and applicable royalties. For ASCU properties - Oxide underground material = 0.549% TSol; enriched underground material = 0.522% TSol; primary underground material = 0.691% CuT. For state land property - Oxide underground material = 0.545% TSol; enriched underground material = 0.518% TSol; primary underground material = 0.686% CuT. For MainSpring (Parks/Salyer South) properties - Oxide underground material = 0.532% TSol; enriched underground material = 0.505% TSol; primary underground material = 0.669% CuT. 9. Mineral resources, which are not mineral reserves, do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant factors. 10. The quantity and grade of reported inferred mineral resources in this estimation are uncertain in nature and there is insufficient exploration to define these inferred mineral resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource; it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured classification. 11. Totals may not add up due to rounding. As shown in TABLE 4 below, a total of 276 million short tons or 3.0 billion pounds were converted into a P&P Reserve out of the leachable M&I Resource base of 4.43 billion lbs, representing a conversion rate of 68%. The Inferred material and primary sulphides are treated as waste, with conversion drilling at Cactus West, a focus for 2024 as part of the dual track ASCU/Nuton Work Plan as announced on January 30, 2024. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Table 4: Cactus Mine Project Reserves Statement by Deposit Unit Cactus West Open Pit Stockpile Open Pit Cactus East Underground Parks/ Salyer Underground Totals Proven Tons 3,600,000 3,600,000 CuT (%) 0.249 0.249 Cu TSol (%) 0.225 0.225 Cu (M lbs) 17.9 17.9 Probable Tons 71,921,000 76,777,000 27,739,000 96,248,000 272,686,000 CuT (%) 0.310 0.163 0.950 0.930 0.552 Cu TSol (%) 0.260 0.136 0.885 0.820 0.487 Cu (M lbs) 445.4 251.0 527.0 1,789.7 3,013.0 Proven + Probable Tons 75,521,000 76,777,000 27,739,000 96,248,000 276,286,000 CuT (%) 0.307 0.163 0.950 0.930 0.549 Cu TSol (%) 0.259 0.136 0.885 0.820 0.484 Cu (M lbs) 463.3 251.0 527.0 1,789.7 3,031.0 Notes to the Mineral Reserves: 1. Mineral Reserves have an effective date of November 10, 2023. The Qualified Person for the underground estimates of Cactus East and Parks/Salyer is Nat Burgio of AGP Mining Consultants Inc. The Qualified Person for the open pit estimates of Cactus West and Stockpile is Gordon Zurowski of AGP Mining Consultants Inc. 2. The Mineral Reserves were estimated in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves. 3. The Mineral Reserves are supported by a combined open pit and underground mine plan, based on open pit and underground designs and schedules, guided by relevant optimization procedures. Inputs to that process are: Metal prices of Cu $3.70/lb. Processing costs which are variable and based upon material type, processing destination, copper grade, and copper recovery. Processing costs include a fixed unit cost component, a net consumption cost, and a cost for refining and selling copper cathode. General and administration cost of $0.47/ton processed. Royalty cost of 2.5% for BCE land and 2.54% for Parks/Salyer, Cactus and Stockpile Ores, excluding BCE ore royalty discussion noted below. Process recoveries which are variable depending upon mineralization type, sequential copper grades, and comminution size. Open pit geotechnical design criteria from Call and Nicholas, Underground geotechnical design criteria from Call and Nicholas, Open pit mining costs including an escalation factor with pit depth. Underground mining cost of $27.62. 4. The footprint delineations for the Cactus East and Parks/Salyer mines were based on a resource model block cash flow dollar value (CFTC1) of $27.62 (net of process, G/A and royalties). Drawpoints were shut-off when the grade value fell below a CFTC1 of $27.62 following the necessary removal of swell material within the footprint. 5. Dilution and mining loss adjustments are incorporated into the underground mining inventories by way of cave flow modelling software. Inferred resources included in the mixing process have been assigned zero grade. No allowance for mining dilution or ore loss has been provided in the open pit mining inventories. Mining Operations The Cactus Mine plan includes production from four separate mining areas: Cactus West Open Pit, Historical Stockpile, Cactus East Underground, and Parks/Salyer Underground. Ore processing in the mine schedules involves oxides and secondary sulphides being processed on a heap leach after multi-stage crushing. The mine production schedule is initially focused on the surface sources of ore (Stockpile and Cactus West Open Pit) beginning in year -1, along with Parks/Salyer underground starting development in Year 1. The Cactus East deposit is developed later in the mine life, starting in Year 8. Cactus West and the Stockpile ore sources are depleted in Year 7 after which the ore stream becomes exclusively underground. The overall site layout is shown in FIGURE 8. The Cactus West mine life consists of 2 phases and includes one year of pre-stripping and seven years of mining. Phase 1 starts with 24 million tons (Mt) of pre-production stripping and is completed in Year 4. Phase 2 mining begins in Year 2 and is mined out in Year 6. Target ore production is 12 Mt per annum with a peak mining rate of 47 Mt in Years 2 and 3. A total of 75.5 Mt of leach ore grading 0.307% total copper is mined at a strip ratio of 1.9 to 1. Bench elevations at Cactus West range from the 1,440-ft level to the 380-ft level. Over the course of the open pit mine schedule, approximately 13.1 Mt of low-grade ore is stockpiled and reclaimed in order to smooth the ore release from the open pits. This amount includes approximately 3.0 Mt of material stockpiled in the first three years of mining, and then processed in Year 3 and 4, and another 10 Mt stockpiled later in the mine schedule before being reclaimed in Years 7 and 8. Historic Stockpile (FIGURE 5) mining begins near the end of the pre-production year with approximately 3.0 Mt of ore sent to the leach pad. Mining continues concurrently with the Cactus West pit into Year 7 at an annual ore production rate of 12 Mt. A total of 76.8 Mt of leach ore at 0.163% total copper is mined. A small amount, 5.5 Mt of waste is mined from the historic stockpile and sent to the waste storage areas. The initial Parks/Salyer SLC (FIGURE 6) level will commence at 1,120 ft (341 m) below surface and include 11 sublevels to a final depth of 1,930 ft (588 m) below surface. Access to the Parks/Salyer deposit will be via a surface portal and twin declines. One decline will be dedicated to ore haulage using an inclined conveyor and the other decline providing access for personnel and equipment. Production extends from year 1 to 20, with steady state production beginning in year 7 to year 20, peaking at 6.9 Mtpa in year 13. A total of 96 Mt of leach ore @ 0.82% Cu TSol will be processed. The initial Cactus East SLC (FIGURE 7) level will commence in year 9 at 1,325 ft (404 m) below the surface and will be comprised of 7 sublevels to a final depth 1,845 ft (562 m) below surface. Access will be via a single decline with a portal located within the existing Cactus West pit. Ore haulage to surface will be via a vertical conveyor which can be supplemented with truck haulage to surface via the open pit if necessary. Production is planned from year 9 to 19, with steady state production beginning in year 12, peaking at 3.9 Mtpa in year 15. A total of 28 Mt of leach ore @ 0.89% Cu TSol will be processed. SLC production crosscuts have primarily been designed so that each level is horizontally offset from the level above and below. The design parameters for the SLC production drives at Cactus East and Parks/Salyer are in line with other SLC operations. The amount of ore to be extracted will be limited in the upper three production levels to the following proportions: First Level ~40% (swell only) Second Level ~60% Third level ~100% Lower levels >100% to shutoff grades or dollar values. The production strategy will help control caveability, minimise the formation of air gaps and create a blasted ore blanket above the production levels to minimise early dilution entry from the overburden rocks. These restricted draw rates also apply to areas where large step-outs distances are required from one sublevel to the next. The Cactus East Ore/Waste Handling System consists of a crusher station and a 1,600 ft (488 m) vertical conveyor with a capacity of 630 tons/h that will convey ore from the top of the orebody to surface via a vertical raise feeding an overland conveyor. Ore will be hauled by 55-ton diesel trucks to a sizer located adjacent to the bottom of the vertical conveyor. Ore will be crushed to a maximum 6-in dimension. A short conveyor from the sizer will feed the vertical conveyor. Waste will be trucked to the portal for disposal within the Cactus West open pit. The mine plan for Parks/Salyer consists of two ramps with one dedicated for material handling. The ore/waste handling system consists of a series of initially four, extending to five switchback conveyors and two crushing sizers on -270 L, one of which will subsequently be relocated at the -470 L. that will deliver material from the mine working levels to the surface portal, from where materials will then be transported on surface via an overland conveyor. Ventilation is driven by a fresh air drive developed from the access drive, in which the fresh air will be splitting right and left to connect to the return air drives at the extremities of the footprint. This allows natural flow of ventilation through the entire footprint. Processing Operations Material mined from the existing stockpile will be placed in 20-ft lifts and material from all other sources will be stacked in 30-ft lifts. Material will be reclaimed and transferred by haul truck to the crushing circuit where it will be crushed down to P80 minus -in. From the crushing circuit, the material will transfer by overland conveyor to the agglomeration drums, mobile transfer conveyors, and mobile radial stacker to be placed on the geomembrane lined heap leach facility (HLF). Leaching solutions, containing dilute sulfuric acid will be pumped and applied to the top of each lift and allowed to percolate though the copper leach material. Copper is dissolved into the solution while acid is consumed at approximately 13.6 lb/ton of material leached. Acid consumption is net of regenerated acid in the SXEW process. The height of the leach material on the pad will eventually reach approximately 180 ft (55 m) in overall height. The pregnant leach solution (PLS) collected from the HLF will be conveyed in pipes to the heap leach ponds where it will be pumped for processing in a copper SX/EW plant capable of producing initially up to 30,000 ton/y of copper cathodes with a design PLS flow of up to 12,000 gpm and grade at approximately 3.0 g/pL Cu based on an overall 71% total copper (85-92% soluble copper) recovery from the heap leaching method for the resources considered. The solvent extraction plant is designed to be operated in a series, parallel, or series-parallel configurations with a single stage of stripping. The optionality of the solvent extraction plant will allow the plant to operate at 4,000 gpm, 8,000 gpm, or 12,000 gpm PLS flowrates based on the variability in copper grades and tonnages in the mine plan. The electrowinning circuit capacity will be expanded in Year 3, doubling in size to the overall plant capacity required to a nominal 60,000 ton/y of copper cathodes. The principal objective of the HLF design is to efficiently extract copper by leaching metals within the geotechnically stable facility. The anticipated ore production will be approximately 65,000 tons/d for the first seven years and reduced to 24,500 tons/d after that for the life-of-mine (LOM) for an average of 55,000 tons of cathode production annually. The pad will be loaded with conveyor belts coming in from the west along the northern side of the pad to discharge to the eastern area of the pad (Phase 1). This area provides a relatively flat area that facilitates the construction of the first phase of the pad and allows for mining of the existing stockpile to liberate additional space for the consecutive phases of construction. A visual representation of the flow sheet is depicted below, in FIGURE 9. Cost Estimates The capital cost estimates for the PFS were developed with a -15% to +20% accuracy and an estimated contingency of approximately 15% according to the Association of the Advancement of Cost Engineering International Class 4 estimate requirements. The estimates include the cost to complete the design, engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of all process plant facilities. The project capital cost estimate was compiled by Ausenco Engineering USA South Inc. (Ausenco) with input from AGP and Samuel Engineering for the open pit, underground mining operation, SXEW process plant, conveying, crushing and screening equipment, site sub-station, site power distribution, access roads, heap leach facilities and associated infrastructure. all direct costs, growth allowances, project indirect costs, and associated contingency within their scope of work, but separately identified. An 1824-month construction period is projected with the initial capital costs and sustaining development costs summarized in the table below. Table 5: Initial and Sustaining Capital Costs (18% LOM contingency included) Capitalized Costs Initial Capital Sustaining Capital Mining and Processing $173 million $905 million Processing $4 million n/a Mining (Pre-Stripping) $78 million n/a MINING - Open Pit - Cactus West $24 million $20 million MINING - Underground - Cactus East n/a $341 million MINING - Underground - Parks/Salyer $57 million $544 million MINING - Underground - Combined/Shared $11 million n/a Other $342 million $315 million Infrastructure $56 million $0.3 million Crushing And Conveying $29 million $6 million Leaching And Waste Rock Storage $66 million $126 million Solvent Extraction (SX) $30 million n/a Electrowinning (EW) $26 million $14 million Reagents $1 million n/a Process Plant Services and Utilities $4 million n/a Project Execution $54 million $8 million Provisions $75 million $160 million Total $515 million $1,221 million Operating Cost Summary Mining operating cost estimates, prepared by AGP, are based on a small owners team managing mining activities using an owner-operator model. Process operating cost estimates were prepared by Samuel Engineering and G&A cost estimates were prepared by Ausenco with input from ASCU, as summarized in the table above. Unit Cost table Operating costs have been based on a delivered diesel price of $3.49 per gallon and are in line with current local pricing. Power will be sourced from a grid supplying 69kv to site, with power costs estimated at $0.07/kWh. Site Infrastructure Summary The facilities at the mine site will consist of an open pit, underground mining operation, SXEW process plant, conveying, crushing and screening equipment, site sub-station, site power distribution, access roads, heap leach facilities and associated infrastructure. Local Resources and Infrastructure The Cactus Mine Project is located approximately 3 miles northwest of the City of Casa Grande, Pinal County, Arizona. It is 40 road miles south-southeast of the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area and approximately 70 road miles northwest of Tucson. It is easily accessible from the Interstate 10 (I-10) freeway, which is approximately 10 mi east of the historic Sacaton Mine. The Greater Phoenix area is a major population centre (approximately 4.8M persons) with a major airport and transportation hub and well-developed infrastructure and services that support the mining industry. Location benefits include: Electric power is available from Arizona Public Services (APS) 69 kV transmission line which passes on the South side of the site and connects to an existing substation owned by ASCU. Paved road and easy access to the interstate networks for transport and two major Interstates Highways (I-10 & I-8) less than 10 miles away from the Cactus Mine Project. Well established road network existing from either ADOT, Pinal County or the City of Casa Grande surrounding the property. Union Pacific rail road line and rail spur adjacent to the property. Five miles distance to Casa Grande and allowing the ability of the town to supply materials/consumables in addition to just labor. Kinder Morgan/El Paso Natural Gas two high pressure natural gas pipelines adjacent to the property should natural gas be needed. The City of Casa Grande Water Treatment Facility located within 3 miles of the Cactus Mine Project that can supply effluent water for the operation and possibly treat waste. An existing Arizona Water Company potable water line is adjacent to the property. Water supply is already available via buried pipeline to the property boundary as a result of prior mining and commercial operations. The cities of Casa Grande and Maricopa are nearby and, combined with Phoenix, can supply sufficient skilled labor for the Cactus Mine Project. In addition, the State of Arizona has a significant presence of copper mining in the state that can specifically provide skilled labor to the Cactus Mine Project. Metallurgical Testwork The metallurgical studies and testing for the Cactus Project has been ongoing since late 2019, via 45 column tests covering the resources identified in the study. Additional tests include, bottle roll testing, mineralogical analyses and other metallurgical and materials property testing. Arizona Sonoran geologists are working with metallurgical engineers to quantify the metallurgical performance from the samples obtained in a large drilling campaign. The drill core samples were safely recovered and placed in bags to be studied by geologists and subsequently shipped for testing to a well-established Mineral Processing research and development firm in Reno, Nevada (McClelland Analytical Service Laboratory (McClelland), an ISO 9000, ISO 17025 accredited facility). Additional testing work was completed on-site by ASCU staff and at HydroGeoSense Inc. (HGS) laboratories in Tucson, Arizona. The metallurgical test program completed at McClelland has been developed by and supervised by Mr. James L. Sorensen. Mr. Sorensen has also reviewed and inspected the ongoing metallurgical testing at site and information developed by HGS. Ownership, Social License, Permitting, Taxes and Royalties The Cactus Mine Project is 100% controlled by ASCU through its wholly owned subsidiary Cactus 110 LLC and encompasses an area of approximately 5,381 acres, as shown in FIGURE 10. The Cactus Mine Project includes exploration and mining on private land and on two Arizona State Land Department ("ASLD) leases. There is no federal nexus for permitting the project. Of the 5,381 acres, 4,731.92 acres is fee simple land, three ASLD prospecting permits that the State has surface and minerals (649.12 acres), two ASLD prospecting permits that the State has minerals only with ASCU owning the surface (797.5 acres) and 18 BLM unpatented mining claims, this is for mineral only as ASCU owns the surface rights (320 acres). The BLM unpatented mining claims are outside of the known mineralization and there are currently no plans for mining at this area. ASCU has a well-developed community engagement plan that it has implemented through numerous public meetings and outreach. With the presence of legacy mining in the Casa Grande area and the determination of Cactus as a brownfield and disturbed site, the local community is supportive of the Cactus Mine Project. There is no significant opposition to the Cactus and Parks/Salyer Project. Permitting is limited to State of Arizona-required permits including the Aquifer Protection Permit, Industrial Air permits and the Mined Land Reclamation Permit which ASCU has received from state regulators. Modifications of each will be required to address changes in the mine plan presented in this PFS. A Mined Land Reclamation Plan was completed and submitted to the Arizona State Mine Inspectors office in January 2023. The submitted plan does not include the Parks/Salyer mine plan and will therefore need to be modified to reflect the addition of new facilities described in this PFS. In 2009, approximately 25 years after the Cactus Mine ceased operation, the mine was conveyed to the ASARCO Multi-State Environmental Custodial Trust as part of ASARCO bankruptcy proceedings, who helped lead a subsequent remediation program. Structures were demolished and reclaimed, and site characterization studies were conducted. Based on the results of the characterization studies and reclamation work, the ADEQ released ASCU from potential legacy liabilities, under the terms of the Prospective Purchaser Agreement (PPA) signed in 2019. The PPA does not cover unidentified environmental conditions or contamination. A corporate tax rate of 25.9% combined federal and state taxes has been applied to taxable income in the PFS with an effective tax rate of 22.3% after applicable deductions and credits. A royalty of 2.5% was applied to all sales from the Cactus deposits and the Parks/Salyer deposit. A royalty of 2.5% was applied to all sales from the Bronco Creek Exploration (BCE) land (west of the Parks/Salyer deposit). As cathodes will be produced onsite, no transport or refining fees have been added. The Cactus Mine Project is subject to three royalties based on potential mining production. Tembo/Elemental Altus holds a 3.18% net smelter return (NSR) royalty, with an option to buy back 0.64% possible for payment of $8.9 million. BCE holds a 1.50% NSR royalty based on a portion of the Parks/Salyer Deposit, with an option to buy back 1% for payment of $0.5 million. ASLD owns a sliding net return royalty (2.00% to 8.00% and estimated at 2%) that is payable to ASLD and the State Trust on a portion of production from the Parks/Salyer Deposit, overlapping with BCE land. ASCU still needs to formalize the royalty percentages with ASLD. Formalization will be done once ACSU submits a Mineral Development Report to ASLD to convert the existing MEP to a Mineral Lease. Exploration Upside The Cactus Mine Project mineral resource estimate includes three deposits along a 4 km mine trend. The mineralization is present within horst blocks developed as part of regional extensional faulting. High grade mineralization was emplaced within brecciated host granite at the margin of the intruding monzonite porphyry zone and locally forms a linear NE trend called the mine trend. Drilling has demonstrated potential for extending mineralization south of Parks/Salyer onto MainSpring as shown in FIGURE 11. At the Cactus West deposit, potential to extend resources exists towards the SW adjacent to the PFS pit and also on the NE edge. These are zones where higher-grade primary mineralization as part of the mine trend have been intercepted previously. The NE Extension zone represents a further horst block of mineralization to the NE of Cactus East that to date has been explored by wide spaced historical drilling. ASCU drilled one exploration hole into the target in 2023. The Gap Zone represents a deeper target between Parks/Salyer and Cactus West. There is potential to explore for a down dropped extension of Parks/Salyer within this zone with analogies to Cactus East. Next Steps Future opportunities to build value may include a potential MainSpring starter pit, and the successful application of the Nuton technology for leaching of primary sulphides. A Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) will define the impact of those two opportunities. A PEA inclusive of an inferred MainSpring mineral resource and the application of the Nuton technologies to the primary sulphides using the same PFS assumptions is underway with M3 Engineering as lead consultant. The study is expected in the summer of 2024 Continued metallurgical testing Infill drilling at MainSpring and around the Cactus West Pit An updated PFS to include the MainSpring opportunity is expected in 2H 2024 A DFS is expected to begin post MainSpring PFS, for release in 1H 2025 Nuton and ASCU have agreed to working towards the Integrated Nuton PFS release by the end of 2024, unless extended mutually by both parties. Nuton phase 2 metallurgy Infill drilling at MainSpring and Cactus West at depth and southwest and west of the deposit Links from the Press Release: Webinar: https://www.bigmarker.com/vid-conferences/ASCU-VID-THF Figures and Tables: https://arizonasonoran.com/projects/cactus-mine-project/press-release-images/ SEDAR+: https://www.sedarplus.ca January 30, 2024: https://arizonasonoran.com/news-releases/arizona-sonoran-announces-2024-work-plan/ October 16, 2023: https://arizonasonoran.com/news-releases/arizona-sonoran-announces-updated-mineral-resource-estimate-for-the-cactus-project/ Cactus PEA, effective date of November 10, 2022: https://arizonasonoran.com/site/assets/files/6218/2022-11-10_-_ps_cactus_mre_tech_report.pdf Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedures Skyline Labs is accredited in accordance with the recognized International Standard ISO/IEC 17025:2005. Their quality management system has been certified as conforming to the requirements defined in the International Standard ISO 9001:2015. The standard operating procedure (SOP) used while processing the ASCU samples was to process samples in groups of 20. Each tray consisted of 18 samples with samples No. 1 and No. 10 repeated as duplicates. The results from each tray were analyzed and any variance in the duplicates of more than 3% would result in the entire tray being re-assayed. The results of these analyses, including the QA/QC checks, were transmitted to a select set of individuals at ASCU and the qualified persons. Qualified Persons The authors of the Technical Report, each of whom is an independent qualified person within the meaning of NI 43-101 are listed below. The responsibilities of the engineering consultants are as follows: Ausenco was commissioned by ASCU to manage and coordinate the work related to the PFS and the technical report. Ausenco was also retained to complete the infrastructure design, leach pad design, and to compile the overall cost estimate and financial model. AGP and Call & Nicholas (CNI) were commissioned to provide the mining methods for the underground and open pit. AGP provided designs for view berms, waste piles, and the stockpile relocation. Capital and operating costs were included in their scope. Samuel Engineering was commissioned to provide the mineral processing and metallurgical testing basis and plant design. Samuels scope included the metallurgical test work supervision and analysis, SXEW plant, leaching process, conveyor systems, crushing and stacking system designs. Capital and operating costs for these areas were included as part of their scope. Clear Creek managed the drilling programs, hydrogeologic evaluations and environmental field work for the study. ALS Geo Resources LLC was retained to provide drilling and resource modelling components of the project. Minefill was involved in paste backfill evaluations and trade-off studies. However, this process is not being utilized in the current project scope. The Qualified Persons listed below for the technical report have reviewed and verified the contents of this press release as it relates to their responsibilities. By virtue of their education, experience and professional association, they are considered Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Technical aspects of this news release have been reviewed and verified by Dan Johnson, ASCU Director of Projects, who is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Qualified Person Professional Designation Position Employer Erin L. Patterson P.E. Director of Minerals & Metals Ausenco Engineering USA South, Inc. Scott C. Elfen P.E. Global Lead Geotechnical Services Ausenco Engineering Canada ULC. R. Douglas Bartlett RG, CHG, Principal Clear Creek Associates, a subsidiary of Geo-Logic Associates Gordon Zurowski P.Eng. Principal Mine Engineer AGP Mining Consultants Inc. Nat Burgio FAusIMM (CP) Principal Geologist AGP Mining Consultants Inc. Todd Carstensen RM-SME Principal Mine Engineer AGP Mining Consultants Inc. Allan L. Schappert CPG, SME-RM Principal ALS Geo Resources LLC James L. Sorensen FAusIMM Director Samuel Engineering, Inc. Paul F. Cicchini P.E. President North Star Geotech LLC About Arizona Sonoran Copper Company (www.arizonasonoran.com | www.cactusmine.com) ASCUs objective is to become a mid-tier copper producer with low operating costs and to develop the Cactus and Parks/Salyer Projects that could generate robust returns for investors and provide a long term sustainable and responsible operation for the community and all stakeholders. The Company's principal asset is a 100% interest in the Cactus Project (former ASARCO, Sacaton mine) which is situated on private land in an infrastructure-rich area of Arizona. Contiguous to the Cactus Project is the Companys 100%-owned Parks/Salyer deposit that could allow for a phased expansion of the Cactus Mine once it becomes a producing asset. The Company is led by an executive management team and Board which have a long-standing track record of successful project delivery in North America complemented by global capital markets expertise. Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures This news release contains certain non-IFRS measures, including sustaining capital, sustaining costs, C1 cash costs and AISC. The Company believes that these measures, together with measures determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Cautionary Statement Regarding Estimates of Mineral Resources This news release uses the terms measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources as a relative measure of the level of confidence in the resource estimate. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources are not mineral reserves and that the economic viability of resources that are not mineral reserves has not been demonstrated. The mineral resource estimate disclosed in this news release may be materially affected by geology, environmental, permitting, legal, title, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issues. The mineral resource estimate is classified in accordance with the Canadian disclosure requirements of Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleums CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves incorporated by reference into NI 43-101. Under NI 43-101, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies or economic studies except for preliminary economic assessments. Readers are cautioned not to assume that further work on the stated resources will lead to mineral reserves that can be mined economically. Forward-Looking Statements This news 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. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, expect, is expected, in order to, is focused on (a future event), estimates, intends, anticipates, believes or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or the negative connotation thereof. In particular, statements regarding ASCUs future operations, future exploration and development activities or other development plans constitute forward-looking statements. By their nature, statements referring to mineral reserves or mineral resources constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to statements with respect to the results (if any) of further exploration work to define and expand or upgrade mineral resources and reserves at ASCUs properties; the anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction and other activities of ASCU and the result of such activities; the mineral resources and mineral reserves estimates of the Cactus Project (and the assumptions underlying such estimates); the ability of exploration work (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization; the ability of management to understand the geology and potential of the Cactus Project; the focus of the 2024 drilling program at the Cactus Project including the Parks/Salyer deposit and MainSpring property; the ability to generate additional drill targets; the ability of ASCU to complete its exploration objectives in 2024 in the timing contemplated (if at all); the completion and timing for the filing of the Technical Report; the timing and ability of ASCU to produce a preliminary economic assessment (including the MainSpring property) (if at all); the timing and ability of ASCU to produce the Nuton Case PFS (if at all); the scope of any future technical reports and studies conducted by ASCU; the ability to realize upon mineralization in a manner that is economic; the impact of bringing the MainSpring property into the mine plan; the ability and timing of ASCU to commence operations (if at all); the robust economics and opportunity represented by the Cactus Project; the ability of ASCUs operations to be among the top 10 copper operations in Arizona and the US (if at all); the impact of the NutonTM technologies on ASCU operations and cost relating to same; the impact of the relationship with Nuton on ASCU and its operations and any other information herein that is not a historical fact. ASCU considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect ASCU, its properties and business. Such risks and uncertainties include, but not limited to, the global economic climate, developments in world commodity markets, changes in commodity prices (particularly prices of copper), risks relating to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar and other currencies relative to the US dollar, risks relating to capital market conditions and ASCUs ability to access capital on terms acceptable to ASCU for the contemplated exploration and development at the Companys properties, changes in exploration, development or mining plans due to exploration results and changing budget priorities of ASCU or its joint venture partners, the effects of competition in the markets in which ASCU operates, results of further exploration work, the ability to continue exploration and development at ASCUs properties, the ability to successfully apply the NutonTM technologies in ASCUs properties, the impact of the NutonTM technologies on ASCU operations and cost relating to same, the timing and ability for ASCU to prepare and complete the Nuton Case PFS and the costs relating to same, errors in geological modelling, changes in any of the assumptions underlying the PFS, the ability to expand operations or complete further exploration activities, the ability to obtain regulatory approvals, the impact of changes in the laws and regulations regulating mining exploration, development, closure, judicial or regulatory judgments and legal proceedings, operational and infrastructure risks and the additional risks described in ASCUs most recently filed Annual Information Form, annual and interim managements discussion and analysis, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under ASCUs issuer profile. ASCUs anticipation of and success in managing the foregoing risks could cause actual results to differ materially from what is anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Although management considers the assumptions contained in forward-looking statements to be reasonable based on information currently available to it based on information available at the date of preparation, those assumptions may prove to be incorrect. There can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and are urged to carefully consider the foregoing factors as well as other uncertainties and risks outlined in ASCUs public disclosure record. ASCU disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - TEAKO MINERALS CORP. (CSE: TMIN) (the "Company" or "Teako") is pleased to announce the filing of an independent technical report (the "Technical Report") in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") for its Yellow Moose property located in B.C., Canada (the "Property"). The Technical Report, prepared by Afzaal Pirzada, P. Geo (the "Author"), an independent Qualified Person, at the Company's request and carries an Effective Date of February 19, 2024. It adheres strictly to the standards mandated by NI 43-101 for the Property. This technical report is accessible on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website under the Yellow Moose project section (see link). About the Yellow Moose property The Property is an advanced-stage project measuring 105km with extensive geological, geochemical, and geophysical survey coverage defining a greater than fifteen km length of a low-sulphidation epithermal gold trend with permitted drill-ready targets and is 100% owned by Teako. The Project is within the Nechako Plateau region of north-central British Columbia, 150 km southwest of the city of Prince George and 75 km southwest of the town of Vanderhoof. The property has an abundance of epithermal gold prospects and projects in the region, including the 11.7 Moz Blackwater Deposit owned by Artemis Gold, located approximately 45 km to the southwest, (M+I resource ref: Artemis Gold Mineral Resource Estimate, 2020). A key target on the property is the gold trend defined by the Trout Deposit and the Stubb Bay Target, which extends over 15 km within the Cutoff claims. The Trout Deposit (not owned by Teako) is located adjacent to Teako's claims to the northern end of the project area. The Trout Deposit is a well-preserved low-sulphidation epithermal gold target. The Trout Deposit highlights the gold prospective potential of the Yellow Moose epithermal system. This trend comprises several showings and targets between these two significant areas, and its potential expands considerably if we include the area southwest towards the Property. This region has seen substantial exploration activity since the 1980s, with notable involvement by companies such as Newmont, Cogema, and Phelps Dodge. The historical work predominantly comprised rock, soil, till sampling, and geophysical surveys with limited drilling and trenching. Notably, almost all of the drilling and trenching activity to date has been focused on the Trout Deposit. Recent drilling by the Company (see news release dated December 14, 2023) comprised 772 meters in five (5) holes focused on the Stubb Bay occurrence, one of several prospective areas that define an 18 km gold geochemical trend within the Yellow Moose property. Drilling encountered widespread zones of epithermal-style alteration, including intense silicification, clay alteration, and pyrite mineralization with rare pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite. Results include 3.1 meters of 1.6 grams per tonne ("g/T") gold ("Au") from 35.9 m to 39.0 m in hole YM23-04 and 6.4 meters of 0.2 g/T Au from 135.6 m to 142.0 m in hole YM23-02. The Company interprets alteration patterns, clay mineralogy, and elevated pathfinder elements to indicate that only the upper portions of a gold-bearing epithermal system were intersected. Further drilling will be required to test an interpreted higher-grade core. About Teako Minerals Corp.: Teako Minerals Corp. is a Vancouver-based mineral exploration company committed to acquiring, exploring, and developing mineral properties in Norway & Finland exploring for copper, cobalt, base metals, and gold. The adoption of technologies such as the SCS Exploration Product aligns with its strategy to remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving mining industry. ON BEHALF OF TEAKO MINERALS CORP. "Sven Gollan" CEO T: +43 5522 500429 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-Looking Information: This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Teako. Forward-Looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Teako. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "will," "may," "would," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "could" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-Looking statements in this press release include statements related to the approvals of the Acquisition, and the Company's business plans and operations. Although Teako believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Teako can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the mineral exploration industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; the uncertainty of mineral resource estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), constraint in the availability of services, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, changes in legislation impacting the mining industry, adverse weather conditions and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures. These and other risks are set out in more detail in Teako's interim Management's Discussion and Analysis dated October 31, 2023.The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release. Lee Jae Wook, Lee Jun Young, and Hong Su Zu shared how their awkwardness transitioned into a beautiful friendship that became the foundation of their exciting chemistry in "The Impossible Heir." 'The Impossible Heir' Update: Lee Jun Young & Hong Su Zu Give Glimpse of Their New Found Chemistry The newest trio to debut on the small screen Lee Jae Wook, Lee Jun Young, and Hong Su Zu shared how they established a good rapport while working on their upcoming series "The Impossible Heir." Disney Plus' "The Impossible Heir" is a mystery drama that will follow the story of three small-timers who team up in an attempt to take over Korea's biggest conglomerate. Lee Jae Wook is Han Tae Oh, the son of a killer; Lee Jun Young takes the role of Kang In Ha, the illegitimate son of a chaebol chairman; and Hong Su Zu is Na Hye Won, the daughter of a gambler who has burned her with debt. Before they embarked on a meaningful journey for this project, the lead stars revealed that they shared meals. Apart from that, they also went on membership training trips, allowing them to establish a strong bond with each other. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Lee Jun Young to Play Hot Villain in Disney Plus' 'The Impossible Heir' In regards to their teamwork, the trio said that they share their worries and concerns with each other and that it was difficult to pick just one to mention. Lee Jun Young Confident About His Synergy With Lee Jae Wook & Hong Su Zu Idol-actor Lee Jun Young expressed, "I found it easy to focus on acting when looking into Lee Jae Wook and Hong Su Zu's eyes. Our chemistry on set was great, and I am grateful to be able to get to know such talented and good people." Lead actress Hong Su Zu hoped that the viewers would look forward to the rapport among actors of similar ages, giving hints that their chemistry will play an important role in the soon-to-release series. Apart from the stars, the drama's director, Min Yeon Hong revealed that he hoped Lee Jae Wook, Lee Jun Young, and Hong Su Zu would quickly become close so they could act more comfortably. He added that after casting, they gathered at a guest house several times for table readings. In the succeeding days, the trio became close because their personalities matched well. Since then, the director had no worries. Min Yeon Hong admitted that it was nice to see the trio creating a pleasant atmosphere on set while also caring and guiding each other. Furthermore, "The Impossible Heir" is scheduled to premiere this February 28. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Lee Jae Wook's New Drama 'The Impossible Heir' Confirmed to Release in THIS Month What are you excited about the upcoming K-drama trio Lee Jae Wook, Lee Jun Young, and Hong Su Zu? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments! For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at Kdramastars. Kdramastars owns this article. Shai Collins wrote this. WorkSafeBC has not gone far enough in making changes to regulations surrounding the operation of construction cranes, a union leader says. A memorial to five men killed when a crane collapsed in downtown Kelowna in July 2021 is shown in this file photo. A jury has started deliberating in the trial of a Quebec man charged with the first-degree murder and sexual assault of 19-year-old junior college student Guylaine Potvin in 2000. Potvin, shown in a Quebec provincial police handout photo, was found dead in her apartment in Jonquiere, Que., on April 28, 2000. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Surete du Quebec **MANDATORY CREDIT** As Ontario prepares to expand the number of private clinics that perform publicly funded cataract surgeries, documents show those procedures form one of the most common complaints the province receives from patients about unfair billing practices. While the absolute numbers are relatively small, NDP health critic France Gelinas said the true number of patients with similar complaints is likely much higher, because not many people know how to go through the process. Gelinas attends Question Period at the Ontario Legislature in Toronto, Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - A 61-year-old man who impersonated an advocate of the High Court by writing a demand letter for an unsuspecting member of the public who had been defrauded Sh20,000 was today arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts following his arrest by Serious Crime Unit detectives. Simon Githu Mbugua was arrested on Monday 19th February 2024 at Muindi Mbingu Street in Nairobi CBD after writing and forwarding the demand letter while pretending to be Winny A. Ochwal Advocates - Commissioner for Oaths. Upon search in his Kimathi Hse office, a stamp reading WINNY A. OCHWAL ADVOCATES was recovered before he was arrested and booked at Muthaiga Police Station. On arraignment today, the suspect was released on Sh100,000 cash bail, pending the case mention at Milimani's court no. 4 on March 5. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 An alimony hearing in France turned bloody when a man shot his ex-wife dead and then killed himself. The shocking scene took place on Tuesday, February 20, outside the Palais de Justice in the southern city of Montpellier before the divorced pair could discuss splitting up their property. 'A 66-year-old woman was set upon by a 72-year-old man who had been waiting for her on a bench outside the court,' said an investigating source. 'As she approached security, he walked up to her with a gun and calmly shot her in the head, at point blank range. 'There was immediately a huge puddle of blood, and lots of screaming by passers-by before the man turned his own gun on himself.' Both the man and the woman were declared dead at the scene by emergency services personnel, said the source. Police said she was shot in the back of the back of the head, before the man turned the weapon on himself. Fabrice Belargent, the Montpellier public prosecutor, confirmed that the pair divorced in 2016, and had been due at an appointment at 2pm to discuss the liquidation of assets. The man had a record for physically attacking his wife when they were married, but 'there were no proceedings in progress regarding domestic violence, nor any kind of protection order,' said Mr Belargent. A security cordon was placed around the court building after the mid-afternoon attack, and a white sheet was fitted over the gate in front of the courthouse to prevent the public from seeing the bodies. Firefighters and police are still working on the scene, and access to the court is currently limited. Michael Delafosse, the Mayor of Montpellier, said: 'A man responsible for violence against his wife shot her and then turned the gun against himself. 'The facts occurred in front of the Montpellier court. I pledge my support to all the justice personnel who have been severely affected by this atrocious act.' A police source told AFP: 'We are not talking about terrorism at all.' Eric Dupond-Moretti, France's minister of justice, said on X this afternoon in the wake of the shooting: 'Horrified by the femicide which took place in front of the Montpellier court this afternoon. 'My thoughts are with the victim and his loved ones. 'All my support to the court staff. The psychological support unit is triggered.' A person can learn a lot from a dog: obedience, loyalty, the value of companionship and the importance of turning around three times before lying down. OK, maybe not that last one. But also being undaunted and confident while carrying a big stick? Meet Eva, a 7-year-old Belgian Malinois who has become an icon in her neighborhood in Normal, Illinois, a daily sight each morning and a definition perhaps, for all the rest of us, of a better life. Eva, says Peggy Trainor, of the Pleasant Hill subdivision neighborhood, is a daily reminder of what (U.S. President) Teddy Roosevelt once said ... that we can go far if we speak softly and carry a big stick. Especially the stick. Its the same every day. So routine, repetitive and yet amusing to watch, motorists now are known to wave, honk and smile at Eva (pronounced Ava) and her prime keeper, chief feeder and daily walker, Rob Ward. Some people just stop and stare, says Rob. As traffic in all four lanes is moving along and life in Bloomington-Normal is awakening to another day, theres Eva on the sidewalk, rather dignified, in a steady prance, head up, majestic, eyes scanning with a 5-foot-long stick in her mouth. Not just any stick. HER stick. The SAME stick. Every day, for FIVE years now. She goes out of the house every day and looks for 'her stick,' says Rob. Then we head out. She knows the route. She could walk it herself, if needed. With her stick. The EXACT same stick for five years, you ask? The center part of it is now worn down from her carrying it, says Rob. She will drop it to sniff around somewhere, but when done, she then picks it back up and continues on. Dogs, of course, have always enjoyed a good stick, an instinctual thing that, according to canine experts, is similar to finding a bone, is a perfect texture to gnaw on, has an earthy smell that is attractive to a dog, and especially to a Rottweiler, or Labrador, or Spaniel. And Eva ... Watching her is just a good way to start my day, says Peggy Trainor. She looks so proud carrying that stick, says Chuck Blystone, also of the neighborhood. For years, I have passed them as I hurry off to work. Makes me laugh every time I see it. Our grandchildren run to the front window when Eva walks past, offers another neighbor, John Lutes. Through the eyes of a child, they have seen the fascination. They look and love that dog and her l-o-n-g stick. One morning, as Rob Ward tells it, a mom and two young girls even pulled over and handed them a card. It read, hand-scrawled in elementary crayon: To Stick Dog: You are so funny. We watch you every day. Sophia (the baby) cries when you dont show up. We need you! It continued, You are a great thing to look forward to on the way to school. Every day we look for you. Yup. So cute. Doggone, cute. And meant. The Eva daily routine is always the same. A Belgian malinois that's the one that is highly intelligent, bred for personal protection and/or police work, is high energy, the one that smells your luggage at an airport for drugs or contraband theyre also highly routine and disciplined in their rituals, too. Five years ago, as a puppy, Eva picked up a stick one day and the habit started, says Rob. She demands the same stick for morning walks, but interestingly would rather walk without it on the evening walk. With the stick in her mouth, she can work out the perfect center-balance-point so that the stick is even to the ground as she walks. She even, says Rob, maneuvers through narrow spaces by turning her stick diagonally. Its when people began to stop us and comment how it makes their day ... he adds, thats when we knew it was special. Walk with a quiet confidence? An ability to balance things, even mired with a cumbersome stick? A good life of loyalty, being a great companion, to the delight of others, and at the same time, with an ability to put it all down occasionally to explore new things? Teddy Roosevelt, live on! Eva, too. And potentially, maybe even a bit of inspiration for all the rest of us as well. ___ Wednesday, February 21, 2024 President William Ruto has revealed plans to use part of Ksh42.9 billion World Bank funding to procure heavy-duty utility passenger vehicle. In a notice published in the local dailies, Ruto, through the National Treasury, acknowledged receiving the funds from the World Bank in an initiative aligned with the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action program (FLLoCA). FLLoCA is a government program jointly supported by the World Bank and other donors aimed at delivering locally-led climate resilience actions and strengthening county and national government's capacity to manage climate risk. Some of the climate-resilient activities involve planning, budgeting, reporting and implementation of local climate actions in various communities. To effectively conduct the activities, the Treasury, through the Program Implementation Unit, would use part of the proceeds towards the contract for the supply and delivery of the heavy-duty vehicles. The unit is responsible for the successful implementation of the FLLoCA program. The vehicles must be diesel-powered engines that can hold around 2,700 to 3,000 cc of fuel. Treasury noted that all interested bidders must show proof of contracts completed in the past five years that show successful delivery of similar goods. Those interested in bidding are advised to inspect the bidding document during office hours from Monday to Friday. All bids must be delivered to the Treasury offices located at Kenya Reinsurance Plaza by March 31, 2024. The government barred participants from applying the process electronically. Treasury documents revealed that the program will cost USD 297 million (Ksh42.9 billion) funded by the World Bank. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - An Akorino bishop, identified as Bishop Johanna, is the talk of social media after a video of him doing the unthinkable to a woman in his dingy church went viral. He applied anointing oil on the womans body and inserted his fingers down there, claiming that he was 'delivering' her. The woman had gone to the bishop to ask for forgiveness for wrecking marriages. It now seems that he mostly targets women. He was recording in another video pulling stunts in a village while reportedly exorcising demons. Relevant authorities should move with speed and stop his madness before it is too late. Watch the video. Ladies and gentlemen, I bring to you Bishop Johanna, Evemungai Nacyndegwa.Affordable Housing Bill. Kenyatta pic.twitter.com/xBiOfhNvD3 kenyanprime.co.ke (@KenyanprimeNews) February 21, 2024 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo is hopeful that the Kenya Kwanza Alliance government will raise more revenue in the coming days. According to him, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has 20 million registered pins but less than half of them are active. We think there is hope for us to raise revenue because there are many people not paying revenue. KRA has 20 million registered pins there are only 8.5 million that are active and even those 8.5 are not paying taxes, Kiptoo said during the ongoing government retreat in Naivasha. He further dispelled claims that Kenyans are overtaxed, adding that Kenyans just lack knowledge of taxation. It is more about education and awareness. We seem to have lost this story around taxation where people are saying we are overtaxed. I dont think myself we are especially if you do comparisons with other countries, he said. At the same time, he noted that if it was easy for Kenyans to contribute to fundraisers very often then taxes should not be a problem. If Kenyans are paying harambee, especially where I come from, every weekend everybody is paying Harambee and is willing, so you dont struggle. "How come when it comes to paying taxes we are struggling, we need patriotism where everybody is paying taxes because it is good for us, Kiptoo said The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, February 20, 2024 A Zimbabwean man has been arrested after the police caught him in possession of five lion heads valued at US$100,000. Officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Polices Flora and Fauna unit acted upon a tip-off suggesting Ndlovu and his friends possessed the lion heads and sought potential buyers. Authorities located them in Avenues, Harare, witnessing Ndlovu and his accomplices loading the illicit items onto a truck. Although the police swiftly intervened, Ndlovus three partners managed to evade capture, fleeing the scene. However, Ndlovu was not as fortunate and was taken into custody after failing to provide a permit authorizing the possession of such trophies. The suspect identified as Patson Ndlovu appeared before a Harare Magistrate Ruth Moyo on Monday, February 20, and he was not required to enter a plea. Despite the seriousness of the charges, Ndlovu was granted bail set at US$200. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - Controversial lawyer, Miguna Miguna, has poked holes in former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's academic credentials as he readies himself to contest for the African Union Chairman position, ahead of the retirement of Mousa Faki early next year. According to the AU website, a person wishing to become an AU Chairman must have a master's degree in law, business administration, political science, social sciences, or economics. Miguna in a post on X said Raila Odinga has no such credentials, stating that he has a certificate in metalwork and panel beating. He also said Raila Odinga is very corrupt and AU requires somebody who is corrupt free and an intellectual. "To be chairperson of the AU Council (the equivalent of the IEBC in Kenya), one must have at least a Masters Degree in law, political science, business administration, economics, or social sciences. "Not metal work, panel beating. He must also have a demonstrated record of zero record of fraud and corruption and be an intellectual leader," Miguna claimed. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - Trans Nzoia County Governor, George Natembeya, has accused Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula, of being the men behind the problems affecting the Luhya community. Speaking during the burial of Mwalimu Lindsay Lime in Bidii Ward, Natembeya claimed that Musalia and Wetangula were to blame for the region's troubles. Wetangula questioned what the two leaders had done for the region during their long political careers, stretching over 30 years. Natembeya said he would not follow a path just because a leader considered a region's kingpin had decided to do so. "But those people, you see them, that's why we are in this situation. "They are responsible for our poverty, for our problems, and for the era of praising leaders just because you have been there for twenty years. "What have you done in those twenty years? "You have been in political leadership for over 30 years, but you still want to cling there and have caused problems for people. And others want us to follow the so-called kingpin," he said. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 Olympic legend, Ian Thorpe has shared the reason he didn't want to come out as gay during the height of his swimming career. The Olympian, 41, who came out in 2014. told The Daily Telegraph on Tuesday that he kept his sexuality hidden because he didn't want any 'distractions' from his sporting career in the early 2000s. 'I had to swim in the Olympics and had to win. I did not want anything to be a distraction for me. I don't want people talking about this,' he said. 'So every time it is alluded you may be gay, you're thinking of it as a negative thing and as a young person you make it bigger than it needs to be. So I answered no.' Thorpe then said he regretted concealing his sexuality for so long because it made the process of coming out feel much more confronting. 'I'm comfortable saying I'm a gay man. And I don't want people to feel the same way I did. You can grow up, you can be comfortable and you can be gay.' The five-time Olympic gold medalist came out as gay during an interview with respected English television presenter Sir Michael Parkinson in July 2014. The athlete later revealed during an episode of This Is Your Life in 2022 that he decided to speak out about his sexuality because he was finally 'comfortable'. 'I was always doing this interview with Sir Michael Parkinson. I had just come out to my family and to my very very closest friends,' Ian told host Melissa Doyle. 'I had spent some time with [Sir Michael Parkinson] before the interview and told him, "You should ask me if I'm gay because I'm going to tell you I am".' Ian continued: 'I needed to say it. It was the first time I felt I was comfortable enough to put myself out there. It was important for me to be my authentic self.' At the time, the athlete declared: 'I've thought about this for a long time. I'm not straight. And this is only something that very recently - in the past two weeks - I've been comfortable telling the closest people around me exactly that.' The Sydney native was first asked about his sexuality at 16 years old and said he didn't know at that stage but 'was still gay at the end of the day.' 'Yes, I lied about it. I'm now comfortable saying I'm a gay man.' He also said he wished he'd come out earlier as his family and friends were supportive of him. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 The Gambia Police Force has arrested a male suspect in connection with the murder of a British national, Shakina Chinedu, whose body was discovered under mysterious circumstances after being reported missing. Ms. Chinedu, 60, was reported missing at Tujereng Police Station on February 15, 2024. Her family last heard from her on Tuesday, February 13th, around 10:30 PM. Her corpse was found on February 16, inside a well in an uncompleted compound in Kunkujang Mariama. According to the police, the suspect, aged between 20 and 30 years, was arrested on Saturday, February 17, 2024. "The suspect is currently cooperating with the police in the ongoing investigation. The GPF expresses its gratitude for the public support and collaboration in the police investigations, the police said in a statement. The deceased moved to The Gambia where she has been residing since 2017. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 The brother of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny is allegedly facing unspecified new criminal charges. Oleg Navalny, currently in self-exile, has been added to Russia's 'wanted list' by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, according to Russian state-controlled media outlet TASS. TASS announced the charges 'without giving any details'. Oleg was already on the Ministry's wanted list in connection with another case, alleged to have violated Russia's Covid-19 lockdown restrictions by encouraging people to join his brother's antigovernmental protests. But the move to arrest him now comes at a sensitive time following protests over the sudden death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a brutal Arctic penal colony on February 16. Alexei Navalny's sudden death in the IK-3 penal colony in Kharp last week has left many questions unanswered, sparking protests across Europe. Navalny was reported to have died on Friday after collapsing suddenly following a walk. On Saturday, his mother and team traveled to the camp, where they were told investigators were still trying to determine the cause of death. Lyudmila Navalnaya asked to see her son's body but was told it was in the nearby Salekhard morgue. They were later informed it had been moved, leading to suspicions Russia had hidden Navalny's body to wait for traces of a nerve agent to disappear. Russian investigators claimed on Saturday Navalny had died from sudden adult death syndrome, but later said they would not hand over Navalny's body for 14 days while a 'chemical examination' takes place. Navalny was previously suspected of having been poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent in 2020 after falling suddenly ill when returning from investigating corruption in Siberia. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 Prince William has issued a statement over the Gaza conflict, saying he feels 'deeply concerned' about its 'human cost'. Prince William has issued a statement over the Gaza conflict, saying he feels 'deeply concerned' about its 'human cost'. The Prince of Wales has called for an end to the fighting in the Middle East as soon as possible", in a major intervention in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Prince William spoke of the "terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack" and said there is a "desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza" and for hostages to be released. He was speaking ahead of a visit about humanitarian support in Gaza. The prince's visits will provide a symbolic recognition of the suffering of those caught up in violence. He will hear from those providing humanitarian support in the Middle East and is expected to hear first-hand accounts of the pressure on those working in Gaza. On a visit to a synagogue, later this month, Prince William will speak to young people from a range of backgrounds, in a meeting which will draw particular attention to concerns about antisemitism. William said today: 'I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. 'I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. It's critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. 'Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home. 'Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that.' Following the attack on Israel last October, the Prince and Princess of Wales released a statement condemning Hamas. The royal couple said they were 'profoundly distressed' by what they had witnessed. A statement released on their behalf read: 'As Israel exercises its right of self-defence, all Israelis and Palestinians will continue to be stalked by grief, fear and anger in the time to come. 'Their Royal Highnesses hold all the victims, their families and their friends in their hearts and minds.' On behalf of the King, a Buckingham Palace spokesman previously said: 'This is a situation His Majesty is extremely concerned about and he has asked to be kept actively updated. 'His thoughts and prayers are with all of those suffering, particularly those who have lost loved ones, but also those actively involved as we speak.' He added: 'His Majesty is appalled by and condemns the barbaric acts of terrorism in Israel.' A panel of Wisconsin appellate judges will decide whether the teen accused of brutally killing Lily Peters should be tried as a juvenile or adult. Chippewa County Circuit Judge Steve Gibbs ruled Jan. 22 that the teenager accused in the case, known only as C.P.-B. because of his age, be tried as an adult. The District III Court of Appeals said Tuesday a three-judge panel will consider an appeal of Gibbs decision filed by C.P.-B.s lawyer, Michael Cohen. C.P.-B., who will turn 16 in March, is charged with killing Peters, who was 10 years old at the time. Peters went missing April 24, 2022. The following morning, her body was discovered in the woods close to her Chippewa Falls home. When interviewed by investigators, C. P.-B. told police he punched Peters in the stomach, struck her on the head three times with a heavy stick and then said he strangled her to death before having sex with her body. C. P.-B. is charged with first-degree intentional homicide, first-degree sexual assault and first-degree sexual assault of a child under 13 resulting in great bodily harm. C. P.-B. was 14 years old at the time of Peters death. If the case remains in adult court, he faces a minimum sentence of life in prison with eligibility to petition for release on extended supervision after 20 years. If the case is sent to a juvenile court, the accused teen would likely be ordered to participate in the serious juvenile offender program until he reaches the age of 25, less than 10 years from now, according to Chippewa County District Attorney Wade Newell. Gibbs ruled Jan. 22 that allowing the teen the ability to be released when he turns 25 depreciates the seriousness of the offense. The court disagrees that a possible 10-year confinement in the juvenile system, registering as a sex offender and that the defendant would be vulnerable to the adult system would be punishment enough for the defendant, Gibbs wrote in reference to arguments Cohen presented. Anyone who is at least 10 years old and is accused of first- or second-degree homicide is considered an adult in Wisconsins court system. Wisconsin law requires cases against youth charged with intentional homicide to be initially heard in adult court. It was not immediately clear when the defendants full name would be released by the court following Gibbs ruling. Although the Court of Appeals has agreed to review the case, that doesnt mean the lower courts decision will be overturned. The court said Cohen has 25 days to file a brief outlining the reason for his appeal and why the lower courts ruling to keep the defendant in adult court should be overturned. Newell has another 25 days to respond. It is further ordered that further proceedings in the circuit court are stayed pending appeal, court records from Tuesday said. C. P.-B has been held in the Northwest Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Eau Claire on a $1 million cash bond since his arrest. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - President William Ruto has disclosed why he invited governors to the National Executive retreat in Naivasha, Nakuru County. Speaking yesterday, Ruto said he asked the governors to attend the session for Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries to understand the importance of the national government working with counties as partners. "The reason why we asked the council to come and have a session with us as we have these national government executive retreats is because I wanted ministers here and their principal secretaries to understand that the counties are our partners and not competitors," Ruto said. There is a very big opportunity by us working with counties and we lose that opportunity if we dont work with them, he added. At the same time, President Ruto noted that his administration is committed to strengthening devolution to enhance service delivery to the people. The Head of State said he would work with all governors, irrespective of their political affiliation, to spur inclusive growth and development. At a personal level and this administration, we support devolution 100 percent. You should not have doubts as to our support for devolution, Ruto stated. This comes even as governors are spoiling for a fight over Rutos move to reduce their budget. Led by Council of Governor Chairperson Anne Waiguru, the governors rejected Rutos proposals on the budget as well as NSSF and SHIF deductions. Waguru told Ruto to stop micromanaging governors since it was affecting their service deliveries to the people. She urged the president to let governors work independently even as they partner with the National Government. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 President William Rutos administration is excited following the plans by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to relocate a portion of its staff from the United States to Kenya. In job adverts announced by the organisation based in New York, the relocations will be done by 2025. Among the leading offices to be relocated to Nairobi are the Humanitarian Evaluation Specialist and the Director of Programme and Technical Division. "The position of the Director of the Programme and Technical Division is currently located at UNFPA Headquarters in New York, USA, and will be relocated to Nairobi, Kenya, with its incumbent, by 2025. "A fully integrated Programme and Technical Division will be in place by August 2024 ahead of the physical move planned between March and September 2025," the agency stated in its job adverts. UNFPA highlighted that the move is essential as it seeks to extend its reach to more people and make its services more accessible to countries where it is highly active. The primary mandate of the organisation is to implement various initiatives focused on sexual and reproductive health within the United Nations framework. Kenya, through Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei, has welcomed the move expressing that it will elevate the stature of the country. "Another piece of good news that demonstrates a strengthening of Nairobi as the multilateral capital of the Global South," he stated. However, despite the optimism of the government, reports indicated that some of the staff have reservations over the planned relocation. Most of the staff are reported to be concerned about job security, with expectations that some may need to voluntarily leave the UN body before the relocation occurs. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 President William Ruto is now under pressure to sack Gender and Cooperative Cabinet Secretaries Aisha Jumwa and Simon Chelugui respectively, after being ranked as the worst-performing CSs. This is after the two failed to record any data in the latest performance ranking compiled by the Ministry of Public Service, Performance & Delivery Management. The lack of data meant that for the 2022/2023 Financial Year, the government could not outline an improvement threshold for the two ministries, whether positive or negative. All other ministries posted data making it possible to compare performance with the previous year. Meanwhile, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi's Foreign Affairs docket emerged as the top performer, claiming the first position, an improvement from last year's fourth place. CS Aden Duale's Ministry of Defence, which topped last year's ranking, dropped to second place. At the same time, Attorney General Justin Muturi demonstrated improvement, moving from last year's position to secure a spot in the top three best-performing CSs. The Ministries of Energy, Water, and Public Service, secured the 4th, 5th, and 6th place respectively. Subsequently, the Environment, Interior, National Treasury, and Youth Affairs Ministries rounded up the top ten leaders for the financial year. These rankings follow a two-day retreat in Naivasha led by President William Ruto and the Cabinet Secretaries. Ruto convened the meeting to assess the performance of the cabinet secretaries over the last financial year before releasing the report. During the meeting which Kenya Kwanza MPs also attended, Ruto urged the legislators and the CSs to ensure they give their best and refrain from engaging in politics since the next general election is still far away. He emphasised that this approach would guarantee smooth service delivery to the taxpayers. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - National Assembly Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichungwah has attracted backlash after urging Kenyans to apply for jobs advertised through the National Employment Authority Integrated Management System (NEAIMS). The website lists jobs including those negotiated for by President William Ruto during his trips to developed nations, including Saudi Arabia, where Kenyan girls have been enslaved and even some end up dying in mysterious circumstances. Kenyans have however complained that the portal offers limited options and the platform is not as resourceful as drummed up by politicians. Expressing their disappointment, Kenyans highlighted that most of the options listed on the website are not quality jobs with current adverts ranging from; housemaids, drivers, babysitters, and cleaners, as opposed to what most of them have been led to believe. We have heard stories of Kenyans seeking opportunities in some countries where they have historically been mistreated. You are better off farming in Kenya than live a tough life in another country, one Kenyan commenting online stated. Further complaining about issues arising from the advertised jobs, members of the public highlighted problems with the website infrastructure, terming it as a poor mockup of the eCitizen platform. This website cannot handle a thousand concurrent users. The user interface is poor, one user stated. Citing the recent demonstration by medical students at the Ministry of Health offices, a job seeker questioned why the government was yet to fulfill its promises to provide jobs for Kenyans locally. Exporting labour, especially in healthcare, is disheartening when local hospitals are under-equipped and short-staffed. Our government should prioritise creating local jobs and improving business conditions instead of participating in labour exportation, another Kenyan stated. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - One of former President Uhuru Kenyattas family members has said he is ready to organize a handshake between the retired President and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. On Saturday, Gachagua, who had not been seeing eye to eye with the former president, said he is ready to reconcile with him for the sake of unity in the Mt Kenya region. Speaking on Wednesday, Uhuru's first cousin Captain (Rtd) Kung'u Muigai, emphasized the need for both Uhuru and Gachagua to overcome political differences and collaborate for the growth and unity of the region. He called for support for Gachagua's outreach efforts from leaders drawn from all political affiliations, acknowledging him as the most senior politician in the region at present. "As elders in the Mt Kenya region, we welcome the move for the two leaders to unite, and we are prepared to facilitate any meeting, whether it is a handshake or a sit-down, for the sake of the region's growth," Kung'u said. Kungu further cautioned against leaders fueling the division between Gachagua and Uhuru, noting that its the community that would suffer most if the two (Uhuru and Gachagua) continue facing each other politically. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, February 20, 2024 The White House will announce 'a major sanction package' against Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold him accountable for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny and for the two years of war in Ukraine. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby revealed on Tuesday that the new package would be unveiled this Friday. He declined to detail the sanctions or say how they would expand on the strigent sanctions that the U.S. and its allies have already put on Russia in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. 'Whatever story the Russian government decides to tell the world, it's clear that President Putin and his government are responsible for Mr. Navalny's death,' Kirby said. 'In response and at President Biden's direction, we will be announcing a major sanctions package on Friday of this week to hold Russia accountable.' The new sanctions will fall on the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Navalny died in prison on Friday. His death, a month before Russia's presidential election, shocked the world. Russian authorities said that the cause of Navalnys death at age 47 is still unknown and the results of any investigation are likely to be questioned abroad. However, many Western leaders have already said they hold Putin responsible for the death. Kirby said the U.S. had not determined how Navalny had died, but insisted that the ultimate responsibility for the death of the Russian opposition leader lies with Putin. 'Regardless of the scientific answer, Putin's responsible for it,' he said. Navalny's widow vowed on Monday to continue his fight against the Kremlin, while authorities denied his mother access to a morgue where his body is believed to be held after his death. He had been imprisoned since January 2021 when he returned to Moscow after recuperating in Germany from a nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. He received three prison terms since his arrest, on a number of charges he has rejected as politically motivated. 'They are cowardly and meanly hiding his body, refusing to give it to his mother and lying miserably while waiting for the trace of' poison to disappear, Navalnaya said, suggesting her husband might have been killed with a Novichok-style nerve agent. Wednesday, February 21, 2024 - A family in Baringo is seeking justice after their 23-year-old daughter died under mysterious circumstances, three days after landing in Dublin, Ireland for further studies. Brenda Kandies death is shrouded in mystery, with claims that she took her own life being disputed by her mother. Brendas mother revealed that on February 11, just three days after arriving in Ireland, she called her at around 5.08 pm. She claimed that she wanted to talk to her brother, who didnt have a phone at the time. Her mother handed over the phone to the brother but noticed something was amiss as they two were talking. I handed the phone to her brother and I sensed that something was amiss. A few minutes later, I noticed that her brother, who had moved some distance away from me, was crying and I snatched the phone and asked her what was wrong, she said. Bridget told her mother she was stressed but insisted it had nothing to do with money. She alleged that her boyfriend had locked her in the house and threatened to stab her. She further added that she was fearing for her life after the traumatizing incident. I informed her to call the authorities and she said she had already done so. "I also advised her to inform the same student from Kabarnet, who was also living with her in the same city but she claimed she would handle it, narrated the mother. That was the last time she heard from her daughter. She received the sad news of her sudden demise two days later from relatives and friends after unsuccessfully trying to reach her on the phone. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 A young woman has been left fuming after someone she considered a close friend started dating her father and ended up pregnant for him despite a 26-year age difference. The family feud came to light when daughter Joni Wilcox, a barista from Lakeland, Florida, took to TikTok to complain about the situation. She explained, in the now deleted video: Me and this girl became friends. Next thing I know, her and my dad start f***ing behind my back. She was later invited on the talk show Dr Phil to discuss her dad David's relationship with her former friend Gina, who Joni has slammed as a gold digger. Gina, 23, met David, 49, after Joni and her became close. But Joni claims as soon as Gina saw her dad's house she was after his money. Joni described her former friend as money-hungry. David lavishes Gina with luxury gifts and expensive holidays. Joni told Dr Phil: "She is always posting pictures of them going out on vacation. Miami, New York Mexico, the Visacci mansion. My dad is constantly trying to impress her. Its really annoying." Although David claims it's true love, Joni has said he's being "naive." Gina has hit back against Joni's claims. She explained: Ive received so much hateful messages. I had people calling me a money-hungry whore, saying, How could you sleep with your friends dad? and calling my child, that David and I have together, really disgusting names. She even said people online have threatened to come find me and whip my a. Dad David has a history of hitting on Joni's friends. He admitted he has an appetite for much younger women and owned up to making his daughter feel uncomfortable by hitting on her friends, including girls from her childhood softball team. David said: I agree that there should be a boundary there to not date her friends. But I also want to continue living my life romantically with someone that Im with. Joni told Dr Phil: If he wanted younger girls he could have younger girls that arent near me or around me or I know. Joni claimed the two knew they were doing something wrong because they hid the relationship from her. Gina claims it's nothing but her and David's business, saying: Everyone needs to mind their own business. Its David and Is relationship. I dont wake up and think about these peoples relationships so why are they thinking about me? Gina also claimed Joni attacked her when she found out about the relationship. Gina said: She went ballistic when she found out about it. She came [into Davids house] with just her underwear and a crop top and gets irate. She was clearly high as a kite. Next thing I know she struck me in the face. Joni didn't deny the attack but said: She disrespected the f**k out of me. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 X platform formerly Twitter suspended the account of Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny after she accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of killing her husband. 'Account suspended,' a notice said on her account this morning, with a note underneath saying 'X suspends accounts which violate the X Rules.' It was not immediately clear what rules had been broken but her account was reinstated 45 minutes later. Her Twitter account was opened up on February 19 in order to share a video of herself speaking to the camera following her husband's death. In the video, she accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of killing her husband. Alexei Navalny, 47, fell unconscious and died suddenly on Friday after a walk at the 'Polar Wolf' penal colony above the Arctic Circle where he was serving a three-decade sentence, the prison service said. The West and Navalny's supporters say Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. The Kremlin has denied involvement and said that Western claims that Putin was responsible were unacceptable. Tuesday, February 20, 2024 A mommy vlogger who attracted millions of YouTube subscribers by offering parenting advice has been jailed for horrifically abusing her own children. Mum-of-six Ruby Franke was sentenced to four consecutive sentences of one to 15 years in prison on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 20, after pleading guilty to aggravated child abuse of two of her kids. If she receives the maximum sentence, Franke faces 60 years in jail. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole will determine the total number of years. Franke admitted having carried out a cruel campaign of abuse against her two youngest children, who she convinced were evil and needed to be punished to repent. She tortured her son by forcing him to work outside in the scorching heat for so long his sunburn blistered. He and his sister were also denied food and water or offered very plain meals. Franke and her former business partner, Connexions Classroom founder Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested in August 2023 after one of her sons escaped Hildebrandts home and fled to a neighbours who called 911. The 12-year-old boy was emaciated and had duct tape around his ankles and wrists but wouldnt say why, the caller reported. I think hes been hes been detained, the caller said. Hes obviously covered in wounds. The boy and Frankes daughter, who was also found at Hildebrandts house, were taken to the hospital. Eventually, Frankes four youngest children were taken into state custody. Franke and Hildebrandt were each charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse. They have remained jailed since their arrests. Both women pleaded guilty to four of the counts, which each carry a sentence of one to 15 years in prison. Ahead of her sentencing, Franke broke down in tears as she stood and addressed Judge John Walton. I was led to believe this world was an evil place filled with church leaders that lie and molest and children who need abuse, she said. My choice to believe this led to criminal behavior. Franke said she was sorry for twisting Gods word and distorting his doctrines. My greatest desire is to stand in his court someday spotless and confident and Judge Walton, I know that standing before you today is a necessary step towards that end, she said. Thank you to you and your staff for facilitating my opportunity to take accountability and to answer for my charges. Franke continued that she was humbled and willing to serve a prison sentence as long as it takes to continue unraveling all this information I have believed and bought, swallowed and acted out. She expressed desire for her family and the community to heal. She said: I understand this is going to take time. I am committed to continue my learning until all my toxic layers are shed and I am ready to re-enter as a contributing member of our beautiful society. Walton said the court found that consecutive sentences are appropriate and that Franke had 30 days to file an appeal. Shortly after Frankes sentencing, Hildebrandt was also sentenced to four consecutive terms of one to 15 years. Hildebrandt before her sentencing said: I sincerely loved these children. One of the reasons I didnt go to trial is I didnt want them to relive this. But the judge told Hildebrandt: This circumstance is largely of your making. Your conduct was disastrous for these children. In this case, you terrorized children. The prosecution stated before the sentencing that Miss Hildebrandt has shown no remorse. She continues to blame the children." Frankes husband Kevin Franke, who filed for divorce, said in a statement issued through his attorney ahead of the hearing he hoped the judge would order each sentence to run consecutively. It said: "The treatment these children received at the hands of those whom the children had a right to trust, was horrific and inhumane, both physically and psychologically. Kevin remains focused on the rehabilitation of these sweet and vulnerable children so that they might return to a normal life as soon as possible. Under the plea agreement, Franke admitted torturing her son from May 22 through the summer until August 30 by forcing him into hours of physical tasks, summer work outdoors without adequate water and repeated and serious sunburns that blistered. He was denied food or given very plain meals, and he was isolated from other people without access to books, notebooks or electronics. After he tried to run away in July, his hands and feet were regularly bound, sometimes with handcuffs. At times, ropes were used to tie the cuffs securing his hands and feet as he lay on his stomach, lifting his arms and legs off the ground and injuring his wrists and ankles, the plea agreement said. Franke also admitted to kicking her son while wearing boots, holding his head underwater and smothering his mouth and nose with her hands. He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love, the agreement states. Franke acknowledged similarly abusing her nine-year-old daughter by forcing her to work outside, run on dirt roads barefoot, and go without food and water. She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent, and these things were being done to her in order to help her, the agreement said. The girl was convinced what her mother said was true, it notes. The Franke family was criticized online for its video blog showing parenting decisions including banning their oldest son from his bedroom for seven months for pranking his younger brother. In other videos, Ruby Franke talked about refusing to take lunch to a kindergartener who forgot it at home and threatening to cut the head off a young girls stuffed toy to punish her for cutting things in the house. One clip shows Franke discussing how she and her husband told their two youngest children that they would not be getting presents from Santa Claus one year because they had been selfish and werent responding to punishment like being kept home from school and cleaning the floorboards. The YouTube channel, which started in 2015, ended after seven years. This week, I am pleased to present my seventh interview with the sociologist and animal rights advocate Roger Yates, who has been a vegan since 1979. Rogers 2005 PhD dissertation focused on the social construction of speciesism. In the 1980's, he was a Press Officer for the Animal Liberation Front, and in 2013 he co-founded the Vegan Information Project (also known as VIP) in Ireland. He has a blog, social media accounts, and a YouTube channel, where he advocates for veganism and animal rights from an abolitionist perspective. In this interview, Roger outlines the history and philosophy of the Vegan Information Project, and he emphasizes the importance of understanding and challenging cultural speciesism as vegan advocates. He also speaks about the ethical and practical issues surrounding money in the animal advocacy movement, and why vegan advocates are sometimes accused of "forcing" our views on non-vegans. We discuss the importance of viewing veganism as a movement for holistic social justice, and we share our views about some of the things we'd like to see the vegan movement do differently in 2024 and beyond. Roger Yates's blog can be found at https://onhumanrelationswithothersentientbeings.weebly.com/the-blog . The Always for Animal Rights blog can be found at https://alwaysforanimalrights.blogspot.com/ At least 928 of 1,986 schools operating in Kampala are illegal, the deputy director of Education at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Mr Charles Maginot revealed recently. Patrick Kamara hosts Dr Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the State Minister for Primary Education to address concerns in the education sector. Listen to the podcast below; Patrick Kamara hosts Prof Gerald Karyeija from Uganda Management Institute and Senior Presidential Advisor Mr Moses Byaruhanga to discuss a call by Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao asking President Museveni to prepare for a peaceful transition of power, or risk dragging the country back into the dark past of civil strife and political turmoil. The panel also delves into the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga factions proposed new party. Listen to the podcast below; By Perez Rumanzi Religious leaders have tasked the government to turn their focus on mens empowerment to suit the current development trends. The clerics who were attending a mens conference dubbed man up for the western region last Sunday, said there is a need for collaboration between the government and other stakeholders to find a remedy for diminishing the influence of men in society. Retired Bishop of Butaare Diocese in Rwanda, Rt Rev Nathan Kamusiime Gasatura, said: The church needs to begin to be more open, more flexible, more thinking outside the box so that men may not shy away from linking and cooperating with men who come up to organise conferences to make men think better. Preaching at the same conference, Rev Can Dr Tim Smith, an American evangelist, said: If we dont come out and talk to each other, share our challenges, and get exposed to the world, soon, we shall be in positions where women were and women will be in our positions. Who wishes for that? The world has empowered women and men have been left behind, it is us to empower ourselves now, he said. Get more details in todays copy of Daily Monitor here At their recent board of directors meeting, the Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) Board selected the Rivers Edge Convention Center in Columbus for their 111th Annual State Convention to be held December 6-7. Participants will elect officers, set policy, conduct the organizations business, and hear from speakers on issues facing agriculture. For more information, contact the state office. Our organization is looking forward to returning to Columbus for our State Convention, NeFU President John Hansen said. It is important that our members attend and participate in the operation of their general farm organization at all levels, local, state, and national. The Rivers Edge Convention Center is an excellent facility, easily accessible, outstanding food and services, and the facility has been recently updated. We will hear from speakers addressing the topics of the day, set our state policies, and conduct our elections. Delegates will elect three delegates and alternates from Nebraska to the National Farmers Union Convention to be held March 9-11, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Delegates also will elect NeFU Board of Directors in Districts 2, District 4, and District 6 to three-year terms. In addition, NeFU general membership and district presidents representatives to the NeFU Foundation Board of Directors will be elected. District 6 is pleased to host this years State Convention, Graham Christensen, NeFU District 6 Board of Director from Lyons said. District 6 runs from Platte County on the west to the Missouri River on the east, and from Sarpy County on the south to Thurston County on the north. Columbus is home to many agricultural manufacturers and NPPD, and Platte County to a lot of livestock and row crop production along with direct marketing operations of all sizes. District 6 includes Omaha, the states largest city, the home of the Winnebago Tribe, and some of the best farm ground in the world. We encourage everyone involved in agriculture to attend our state convention and meet family farm advocates and producers who believe in the need to protect our soil and water resources for future generations. The High Court in Kampala is today expected to rule on an application filed by Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, daughters of the late Henry Katanga, seeking release on bail. The two sisters are charged with destroying or removing valuable evidence related to their fathers murder. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwanganya, has requested Justice Isaac Muwata to deny bail and proceed with the trial, as the state is ready with its witnesses. Muwanganya also suggested strict bail terms if the judge grants bail, including depositing land titles and passports with the court, weekly reporting to the registrar, and sureties bonded for at least Shs100 million each. Nkwanzi and Kakwanza were arrested with their mother, Molly Katanga, after the murder of their father on November 2, 2023, at their family home in Mbuya-Nakawa division. All three, along with the familys shamba boy, George Amanyire, and Charles Otai, a medical practitioner, remain incarcerated at Luzira prison. Unlike their mother, who faces murder charges, the daughters applied for bail and presented their respective husbands and in-laws as sureties whom the state has found no issue with. Amanyire and Otai also requested bail, citing their roles as sole breadwinners for their families. The High Court in Kampala has granted bail to Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, daughters of the late businessman Henry Katanga. The two sisters were each ordered to pay a cash bail of Shs2 million and each of their sureties was ordered to execute a noncash bond of Shs20 million to ensure their return to Court when required. However, their movements will be restricted, as they are barred from leaving the country without notifying the court and must report to the High Courts criminal registry every first Monday of the month starting from March 4, 2024. This is after court deemed the sureties substantial and upheld the presumption of innocence for the accused. Additionally, with the investigation complete, concerns about witness interference were lessened. The judge also considered the sisters pre-trial detention since November 21, 2023, and the unique circumstances of Martha Nkwanzi being a breastfeeding mother and Patricia Kakwanza having health concerns. Nkwanzi and Kakwanzi are accused of destroying or removing valuable evidence that would be used in court to prove the murder of their late father Henry Katanga. Nkwanzi and Kakwanza were arrested alongside their mother Molly Katanga after the murder of their father who was shot at the familys home on Chwa II Road in Mbuya -Nakawa division on November 2, 2023. The three family members are charged with their shamba boy George Amanyire and Charles Otai (also released on bail) a medical practitioner from Bugolobi Medical Hospital on an offence of being accessories to the murder. Meanwhile, through their Lawyers led by Jet Tumwebaze, Elly Karuhanga and Macdusman Kabega, they have notified to court that a team of State Attorneys led by Jonathan Muwaganya goes to Luzira prison forcing the shamba boy Amanyire to change the statement and pin his co-accused persons. Meanwhile, the defense team led by lawyers Jet Tumwebaze, Elly Karuhanga, and Macdusman Kabega raised concerns about alleged misconduct by State Attorneys. They claim a team led by Jonathan Muwaganya visited Luzira prison, pressuring the shamba boy, Amanyire, to change his statement and implicate the other suspects. The Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) party has urged the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and political actors to guarantee peaceful campaigns in the forthcoming Dokolo district by-election. Following the Electoral Commissions release of the election roadmap, political parties are actively identifying potential candidates. Speaking at a press conference at the partys headquarters in Kampala, Mr. Faizo Muzeyi, Head of Media and Communication at UPC, emphasized the importance of stakeholders upholding electoral laws to prevent violence and ensure a peaceful and fair election for the people of Dokolo. He also reiterated the need for teamwork and unity among UPC leaders and members to secure victory in the election. We are much aware of some of the gaps in elections such as bribery and violence, however, we are going to participate to ensure that our vote is guarded, Muzeyi said. On Monday, UPC announced Sarah Aguti Nyangkori as their candidate to replace the late Cecilia Ogwal, the former Woman Member of Parliament for Dokolo who succumbed to cancer last month. South Korean OTC Crypto Scammers Arrested After Fleeing with $747,000 in Cash Six suspected OTC crypto scammers were arrested in Incheon, South Korea, police in the city confirmed on February 20. Per Newsis, officers said the suspects were all aged between 20 and 39. Police think they stole $747,000 in cash as part of a bogus over-the-counter (OTC) trade. OTC Crypto Thefts on the Rise in South Korea? Police say the incident took place in the Songnim District of Eastern Incheon at around 4 pm on February 19. An unnamed victim said they had arranged to swap about $747,000 for crypto. The victim said that they had agreed on a cut-price deal for the coins with vendors they presumably contacted via social media channels. However, the vendors reportedly arrived at a meeting point, took the victims cash, and counted the money in their van. Once they had finished counting, the suspects reportedly pushed the victim out of their vehicle and sped off. The alleged victim filed a police report, and officers said they used CCTV footage to identify the vehicle, its owner, and the remainder of the group. The number of high-value OTC crypto thefts is climbing in South Korea. In early January, police officers in the nearby town of Icheon, Gyeonggi Province, arrested a man in his 20s on theft-related charges. Police said this man similarly offered to sell crypto at a low price, but instead made off with $10,700 in cash. The suspect took the money and drove off in a car without transferring any coins. Police Issue Warning Speaking after the alleged incident in Incheon, a police official told South Korean media outlets: We are investigating the specific circumstances of this crime, including the sources of the funds involved. The official added: There has been a rise in cases of fraud that involve enticing people to sell virtual currency at a low price. Others offer victims the chance to make large profits by investing in virtual currency. We ask the public to be especially careful. In September 2023, regulators said that they wanted new powers to police the OTC crypto sector. Speakers at an event involving the Financial Services Commission and the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors Office Virtual Asset Crime Joint Investigation Team claimed domestic OTC markets had become the epicenter of virtual currency-related crimes. South Korean Crypto Traders Influence Jumps During Recent Bitcoin Rally This is extremely important to note as exchange and trader dynamics are swiftly changing. My eyes are on Korea (again) given the 2016-2018 premium. https://t.co/cyCQiiDlaj Leah Wald (@LeahWald) January 24, 2024 Regulators claimed the growing list of OTC-related crypto crimes now includs fraud and money laundering. Sinn Fein has confirmed a number of candidates to run in the upcoming local elections in June following a selection convention in the Club House Hotel. The party says it plans to run two candidates in each local electoral area (LEA) in Kilkenny, most of whom have now been selected. One returning figure will be former councillor David Kennedy from Ballyhale, who was previously elected county councillor in the Kilkenny City East LEA in 2014. This election cycle, Mr Kennedy will be running closer to home in the Callan-Thomastown LEA. David Kennedy, Kathleen Funchion TD, Stephanie Doheny Also running in the Callan-Thomastown area will be Stephanie Doheny, a native of Callan. Ms Doheny has been working closely with local TD Kathleen Funchion in her constituency office on Patrick Street. Running in Kilkenny City LEA are Evan Barry and Mark OFarrell. Mr O'Farrell, who has lived in Kilkenny all his life, is a passionate and accomplished metallurgist by profession. Kilkenny City native Evan Barry currently works on Sinn Feins national policy advancement in Leinster House, a position hes held since November 2020. Councillor Denis Hynes is seeking re-election in Castlecomer LEA, alongside a future running mate who is yet to be selected. Cllr Hynes joined Sinn Fein in November 2021, partway through his term as county councillor, having initially been elected as a Labour Party candidate. In the south of the county, Natasha Newsome Drennan and Michael Wemyss are running in the Piltown Municipal District. Ms Newsome Drennan is working in the disability sector and says she is appalled by lack of services provided to the most vulnerable, especially for children with additional needs. Mr Wemyss is no stranger to local politics, having helped re-establish his local Sinn Fein Cumann in South Kilkenny. He says that working for the local authority has made him acutely aware of the many problems facing the people of Kilkenny. Kilkenny TD Kathleen Funchion expressed her satisfaction with her team. I am delighted to be working with this group of highly talented, dedicated and enthusiastic candidates, she said. I have gotten to know each and every single one of them personally, and I am confident in their ability to lead the positive change we need to see in Kilkenny. Councillor Denis Hynes said Sinn Fein is the party Ireland needs at present. Irelands health service is in shambles, people of all ages are priced out of the housing and rental market all while the cost of basic goods and necessities spirals out of control, he said. If I am lucky enough to be re-elected, I will endeavour to put families and workers first, and continue tackling the many crises my constituents face on a daily basis. Former councillor David Kennedy said sport would be an important part of his campaign platform. These are vital institutions and resources that are being neglected, and it is our most vulnerable citizens the elderly, our youth who are suffering most as a result, he said. I believe we need to invest in and revitalise our public parks, playgrounds and pitches, and by doing so rekindle our community spirit. In Kilkenny, Mark OFarell said he has known so many friends and family members who are struggling to cope with the increased costs of living. The worries people have where will I get food? How will I afford rent? all of these take such a toll on peoples mental health, he said. We need better access to mental health services, and I will work my absolute hardest to deliver this for the people of Kilkenny. Evan Barry said: As your county councillor, I will work tirelessly to bridge the gap between local and national concerns. I am acutely aware of the failed government policies affecting our youth, and public concerns around runaway government departments. I am here to listen to you, and to help with all issues that are within my power as county councillor to do so." The residents of Bishops Meadows are to intensify their campaign to have a proper entrance provided to their homes. A packed quarterly general meeting in the Metropole Hotel decided that all rates may be held back if no action is taken by March 31. The incomplete and unsafe entrance is annoying the residents so much that at their next meeting they will vote on a rates strike if nothing is done. The Association appealed to the Council to erect concealed entrance signs on the Freshford Road as a matter of priority as three accidents have occurred there. THE CHALLENGE IS ON! The Seville Lodge challenge was launched on Sunday. The plans for the former Holy Family Novitiate on the Callan Road, which go to make up the most ambitious project ever undertaken in Kilkenny, were outlined by a panel of distinguished speakers. Despite the first weekend sunshine almost for months, crowds thronged the Lodges large assembly hall. People unable to gain admission listened in the halls. They heard of plans to establish an institute of adult education where people may learn about the EEC, about music, television and literature appreciation, where farmers might learn about keeping accounts and foreign languages may be taught. Plans were outlined for the erection of a sheltered workshop costing 56,500 which would employ 25 people initially, 50 within three years and 100 in about 10 years. A prominent Dublin child psychiatrist spoke about a treatment centre and school for emotionally disturbed children which is to be provided at Seville Lodge this year. The centre will be the first of its kind in Ireland. Those present got a run-down on how the two special schools in Kilkenny operate and how Seville Lodge has a role to play. They also heard about what happens at those special residential courses for school leavers and how these can be extended for other groups of people such as parents, teachers and young marrieds. Most Rev Dr Birch, who recently purchased Seville Lodge from the Holy Family Order, said that what was being done was being planned in faith, hope and trust in one another and in God. He appealed for the help of the community in achieving their aims. But he said he was confident they would succeed in their endeavours. We have had a number of headaches, he said, but they are getting fewer. A 28-year-old woman, who was six months pregnant, has passed away as a result of a road traffic collision. Three pedestrians and a driver were involved in the fatal crash in Co Fermanagh on Monday, February 19. At around 8pm, emergency services attended the scene on the Boa Island Road, near Belleek. Valeria Amorim was pronounced dead at the scene. She was Brazillian and living in the area. A woman in her 30s has since been arrested in relation to the incident and remains in custody, police have confirmed. The PSNI are appealing to people who may have witnessed the fatal collision to come forward, or those who may have dash-cam footage to contact them, saying: "Following the tragic death of Valeria and her unborn child, the Police Service's Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for information and witnesses. "Anyone with any dash-cam or other footage that could assist with the investigation is asked to contact detectives from the Collision Investigation Unit on 101 quoting reference 1723 of 19/02/24." Tributes have since came in from far and wide including Ulster Unionist Partys Mark Ovens, who said the death has widely impacted the whole community where she lived. "My heart goes out to all the family and friends of Valeria. Every death on our roads is a tragedy, but the loss of a young mum and her unborn child in such horrific circumstances is particularly heart-breaking. "Belleek is a small and quiet village, located right on the border with Donegal. Incidents like this don't happen very often, but when they do the whole community is left numb." The Northern Ireland Life After Bereavement charity also paid tribute to Ms Amorim online, saying: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of pedestrian Valeria Amorim. "Could everyone please keep the Amorim family in your thoughts and prayers as they come to terms with this traumatic event. "We at Life After offer our deepest sympathies to Valerias family and wish them Gods richest blessings in the days and months ahead with the reassurance that we are there to provide support and assistance if or when required." The HSE has been asked to carry out an audit of childrens orthopaedic care, according to the health minister. Stephen Donnelly said he wanted the health services internal audit teams to examine how a 19 million euro allocation in 2022 was used. Mr Donnelly said the state had failed far too many children in need of orthopaedic care. He was speaking in the Dail after Sinn Fein brought a motion calling on the Government to establish an independent taskforce to review scoliosis and spina bifida services. The Government tabled a countermotion which, while recognising delays for spinal surgery remain too long, said the Government is committed to improving waiting times. It also said the minister intends to convene a taskforce on the issue and a dedicated paediatric spinal surgery management unit had been established at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI). The Department of Health said 464 spinal procedures were carried out last year and 78 active patients were waiting more than four months at the end of December. Mr Donnelly told the Dail: What is happening is inhumane. He said he had committed 19 million euro specifically for childrens orthopaedic care with a heavy focus on spinal care in 2022. He added that the forecast he received from CHI was that this money would quickly mean no child would be waiting more than four months. However, he said this has not happened and added: Concerns have been raised that all of the money may not have been allocated to orthopaedic and spinal surgery, at least not in the way that I and the Government intended and that all of us in this House would want to have seen. He has asked the HSE to send its internal audit teams into CHI. I want a full account of the entire 19 million euro mapped against the intended purpose for that money. We are all absolutely determined to end the failure of these children and provide them with the care they need. The Government appears to have abandoned its commitments on childrens health, the Labour Party has said. It comes after the announcement that the health service has been asked to carry out an audit relating to childrens orthopaedic care. In 2017, then-minister for Health Simon Harris set a target that no child would be waiting longer than four months for scoliosis surgery. However, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said it was utterly scandalous that there are more children on scoliosis-related waiting lists now than when that commitment was made. During Leaders Questions on Wednesday, Ms McDonald said: Of all of the broken promises by your Government, I think its one of the most callous. She said it was unacceptable that there were 327 children on waiting lists for scoliosis-related surgery, a number disputed by the Government. Ms McDonald said everyone must do everything they can to end the waiting lists. She raised the example of 10-year-old Kylie Ann from Donegal who she said had been waiting for life-changing surgery for five years. Kylie-Anns mother has challenged all of us in here to see her as she sees her: With love. To give her the chance and the quality of life that she deserves and I think we should meet that challenge. On Tuesday, the health minister said he wanted the HSEs internal audit teams to examine how a 19 million euro allocation in 2022 was used. Stephen Donnelly said the state had failed far too many children in need of orthopaedic care. Sinn Fein brought a motion on Wednesday calling on the Government to establish an independent taskforce to review scoliosis and spina bifida services. The Government tabled a countermotion which, while recognising delays for spinal surgery remain too long, said the Government is committed to improving waiting times. On Wednesday evening, the Government motion was won by 10 votes. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar guaranteed Ms McDonald that adequate services for child spinal surgery would never be an issue simply of money or political will. He gave a further assurance that he would do everything he could to find out why the issue had yet to be fixed. However, he said it would take more than the returning lifetime of the current Government for waiting lists to be fully addressed. Additionally, Mr Varadkar said he had been advised by the Department of Health that Sinn Fein had miscalculated the waiting lists figure at 327. He said: Waiting lists have gone down. As at the end of last year 78 patients were on the active waiting list, which was a reduction, and 231 are awaiting spinal procedures. Labour leader Ivana Bacik said she had heard harrowing accounts of children being denied care in the health system. She said: Some parents even driven to posting social media videos of their young children sobbing with pain through the night in a desperate effort to secure appropriate health care. Ms Bacik also noted that the Childrens Rights Alliance had given the Government an unacceptable E grade on access to childrens mental health services. She said there was a national disgrace in waiting lists for child and adolescent mental health services. She added: It appears the government had quietly abandoned commitments you have made on childrens health. However, Mr Varadkar said Ireland is a very good country in which to raise a child. He said it was in the top 10 or 20 in most measures, pointing to maternal and neonatal health services, infant mortality rates, and education outcomes. The Taoiseach defended the Governments record on children by saying the Childrens Rights Alliance had not decreased its grade on any of the 16 categories year on year. He added: But I absolutely believe thats not good enough, because my ambition is something more: Its for this to be the best country in the world in which to be a child, bar none. St Johns Church of Ireland on John Street in Kilkenny City will host a World Day of Prayer service on Friday, March 1. The service has been prepared by the Palestinian World Day of Prayer Committee. It comes at a challenging time, a time when ongoing injustice has not yet stopped but also at a time when Palestinian women continue to serve as instruments for a better and deeper understanding among the peoples who share this land, trusting and hoping in the humanity of one another. The theme is I Beg You... Bear With One Another in Love (Ephesians 4:1-7). This service calls us to bear with each other in love, despite difficulties and oppression and will begin at 7.30pm. It will be an evening of ceremony, song, gospel, reflection and prayer. All are welcome to attend. Switzerland Is Now Home to 13 Crypto Unicorns Report Crypto unicorns are springing up in Switzerland, with a recent report claiming the nation is now home to 13 token-related firms worth $1 billion or more. Per a report from PME, the number of unicorns in the crypto sector rose from nine in 2022 to 13 last year. Crypto Unicorns: Switzerland, Liechtenstein Make Moves The media outlet noted that, per CV VC data, the Swiss-Liechtenstein cryptocurrency ecosystem now accounts for 4.8% of all global investments in blockchain companies a 0.7% rise since 2022. And blockchain firms are increasingly choosing to set up shop in areas like the Crypto Valley in Zug. The media outlet wrote: The cantons of Zug, Geneva, and Zurich attracted a combined 81% of the amount raised during 35 crypto start-up financing rounds. Zug itself is now home to 512 crypto firms, the report noted, with Zurich hosting 289 companies and Geneva 115. Dozens of crypto companies have also established headquarters in the cantons of Ticino, Vaud, Bern, Schwyz, Lucerne, and Neuchatel. Neighboring Liechtenstein, meanwhile, is also becoming a blockchain hotspot. The country hosts 66 companies active in crypto. Crypto bank Sygnum raised 35 million Swiss francs ($41 million) to fund expansion and acquisition plans https://t.co/1lKTKtepTO Bloomberg Crypto (@crypto) January 25, 2024 The influx of crypto-related firms is also helping to boost the economy of both countries, the report noted. CV VC explained that the market valuation of the 50 largest Swiss and Liechtenstein-based companies has more than doubled in the same period to reach $382.93 billion. On LinkedIn, CV VC wrote that there was also bad news for crypto investment in the area, with drops in equity crowdfunding, angel investment, and accelerator/incubator funding. But, the firm wrote: Later-stage VC rounds captured a significant portion of total funding, comprising 20% of deals and securing $139.44 million. This represents a decrease from the $372.82 million raised in 2022. But it highlights sustained investor confidence in mature projects. European Nation Attracting Blockchain Entrepreneurs Switzerland has historically been one of the worlds fastest crypto adoption hotspots. Cities such as Lugano have begun accepting tax payments in coins like Tether (USDT) and Bitcoin (BTC). The Crypto Valley project was launched in 2017. Industry advocates have claimed Switzerland has created a suitable political and legal framework for growth in blockchain. Armin Schmid, CEO of Swiss Crypto Tokens, stated in 2019: Turkeys Legislators Meet Stakeholders to Discuss Crypto Regulation, Pledge Security and Innovation in Draft Law Turkeys legislators met with digital asset stakeholders in a consultative meeting to discuss incoming crypto regulations on Tuesday. Omer Ileri, the deputy chairman of the ruling party who oversees the Information and Communications Technologies disclosed the meeting with the team of crypto experts. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ileri wrote that the administrations work towards digital assets continues under the vision of President Erdogan stressing key areas of discussion. Cumhurbaskanmz Sayn @RTErdogan n ortaya koydugu #DijitalinYuzyl vizyonuyla cktgmz yolda kripto varlklarla ilgili calsmalarmz devam ediyor. Bugun kripto varlklara iliskin yasa tasars konusunda sektor temsilcileriyle istisare toplants gerceklestirdik. pic.twitter.com/CaNI7sflt2 Dr. Omer Ileri (@DrOmerileri) February 20, 2024 Today, we held a consultation meeting with industry representatives on the draft law on crypto assets. I would like to thank our sector representatives for their contributions and hope that our meeting will be beneficial. Consultation to Focus on Security and Innovation The meeting with the lawmaker was to discuss incoming crypto regulations in the country as the global demand surges. Ileri stated that the laws will protect investors in the local cryptocurrency market. Last year, global authorities increased regulatory pressure on the market following hacks recorded resulting in losses hitting billions. Turkey hopes to roll out its crypto regulation to create a pathway and clear rules for industry participants. Notably, the consultation with stakeholders in the crypto sectors has been lauded for arriving at market-friendly legislation. This is unlike the United States market where some rules are still uncertain with industry participants criticizing the policies of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The Gary Gensler-led SEC has filed several lawsuits against cryptocurrency firms in what many describe as a court approach to regulation. Ileri added that Turkeys goal will also drive innovation around the sector while protecting users and creating regulatory balance. Web3 innovation has been the focus of crypto-friendly jurisdictions like Hong Kong and Dubai in their quest to create crypto hubs. The lawmaker explained huge plans for the blockchain and Artificial Intelligence sectors with the best standards. Turkeys Crypto Regulation Efforts As global regulators ramp up policies, Turkey has made several moves toward cryptocurrency regulations. On Jan 10, Mehmet Simsek, the Treasury and Finance Minister announced that the country has made progress with cryptocurrency regulations. Simsek previously disclosed the rules in October 2023 as part of plans to align with Financial Action. Task Force (FATF) recommendations. According to reports, the rules are expected this year and will cover licensing of platforms, taxation, disclosures, etc. Bora Erdamar, a director at BlockchainIST Center commented that licensing will be a huge criterion for the upcoming legislation. Introducing certain licensing standards will be one of the top priorities in the new regulation. It prevents abuse of the system. Last year, Turkey recorded surging cryptocurrency transaction volume hitting $170 billion, and ranked fourth on the list. Only the United States, India, and the United Kingdom ranked above Turkey according to a report by on-chain analytics from Chainalysis. The Herald reports: Labour's police spokeswoman, Ginny Andersen, claims Police Minister mark mitchell was paid to kill people and has asked him whether he kept a tally of how many you shot while providing private military services in Iraq. Mitchell said Andersen's comments were outrageous and she should apologise. Andersen refused. Actually his job was to protect people from killers. I blogged previously on some of what Mitchell did, and how many people he kept alive. The fact Andersen won't apologise reflects far more on her than Mitchell. If I was Chris Hipkins, I would advise her to apologise. Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 42F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 29F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Gov. Josh Shapiro joined local officials in Lemoyne Tuesday for a stop on his Main Street Matters tour, where he promoted small business funding that is proposed in his 2024-25 budget. Shapiro has already made a number of other stops across the state to promote his proposed Main Street Matters program, which will support downtowns, main streets and surrounding neighborhoods. If we want to attract new businesses to Pennsylvania, support entrepreneurs and create good paying jobs, then weve got to make sure our communities have healthy, vibrant Main Streets lined with shops and small businesses, he said. The number of opportunities we can create for Pennsylvanians is directly tied to the strength of our local businesses and main streets. My budget calls for $25 million for our new Main Street Matters initiative to support small businesses, downtowns, and main streets all across Pennsylvania. These investments are going to make a real difference across the commonwealth. Shapiro was joined by Rep. Patty Kim and Lemoyne Borough President Gale Gallo for the tour, where they talked to the owners of Massimos Italian Bakery and Arthur Murray Lemoyne dance studio, as well as those who sell goods at the West Shore Farmers Market. Our vendors offer personal service and attention that I think can only be found in a small business setting. Were very fortunate that we have all the community support that we do, said Greg Katshir, co-owner of West Shore Farmers Market. But running a small family business can be difficult. Thats why were so thankful and appreciative of Gov. Shapiro in his efforts to help promote small business and Main Street America. Were really grateful to Gov. Shapiro for coming here today, Gallo said. Were grateful for this new program the $25 million that he has earmarked in the budget for the Main Street Matters program which is money that communities can tap into for help. The Scottsville woman charged with bringing a gun onto the campus of Murray Elementary School last week had forgotten to take her pistol out of her purse and left it in her vehicle parked outside the school, according to police. Tiffany Hicks, 36, is a teaching assistant in the schools special education department. She is currently on leave as the Albemarle County school division investigates the Feb. 14 incident. Albemarle County police were alerted of the weapon on campus after Hicks mentioned to another teaching assistant that shed left the firearm in her vehicle. That other assistant reported it to Principal Wendy Eckerle. Wendy advised me that she talked with Tiffany, who confirmed that she had brought the weapon on school property because she had forgotten to take it out of her purse and left it in her car, reads the report written by a responding officer. Hicks told the officer that she normally keeps the gun in her safe at home. When she was getting out of her car after arriving at the school, she grabbed her purse and realized the pistol was still inside it, she told police. Hicks said she did not have time to drive back to where she lives in Scottsville, drop off the gun and return to work. She told me she placed the handgun underneath her front seat and locked the door, the officer wrote. Hicks allowed the officer to check her vehicle for the weapon, who found it underneath the drivers seat. Hicks was arrested that day and charged with possession of a firearm on school property. She was later released from custody on a $3,000 secured bond. Bringing a firearm onto a school campus is a Class 6 felony in Virginia. Neither police nor the school division have offered any other details, as the matter is still an open investigation. While ACPS takes very seriously its commitment to school safety, the division cannot comment on personnel matters to include ongoing investigations, school division spokeswoman Helen Dunn told The Daily Progress. The communitys trust in the school division maintaining a safe educational environment is essential, and a critical element to maintaining that trust is to thoroughly investigate incidents when they arise. Hicks is scheduled for a court hearing on March 28. Looking back at the legacy of Eliot and Muriel Battle An Albemarle County judge listened to more than 3 1/2 hours of arguments Tuesday, part of one of the nationally watched cases that has pit the countys embattled commonwealths attorney against a mob of White nationalists who marched across University of Virginia Grounds the summer of 2017, chanting racist threats along the way. At issue Tuesday was whether the prosecutors office, recently forced to recuse itself in a related case, must recuse itself from another one, which is focused on Augustus Invictus, a Florida lawyer whose history includes Holocaust denial, a Senate run and ritual ingestion of goat blood. I never had a case quite like this, said the presiding judge, retired 16th Circuit Judge Richard E. Moore. Rather than represent himself, Invictus was represented at the Albemarle Circuit Court hearing by Terrell N. Roberts III, who is also serving as counsel for multiple rioters who broke into the U.S. Capitol the day of Jan. 6, 2021, including the estate of Ashli Babbitt, who was shot and killed trying to climb through a barricaded door. You couldnt have a more important issue in your legal career than the one presented today, Roberts told the judge. The public perception is extremely important here. Invoking free speech principles espoused by Founding Father and Albemarle County native son Thomas Jefferson, Roberts attempted to steer the hearing toward the protections of the First Amendment, but his decision to incorporate a motion made by another lawyer in another case was pounced on by Lawton Tufts, the assistant commonwealths attorney whom he accused of being too close to the counterprotesters to prosecute the men they were protesting. Its a fun piece of creative writing, said Tufts, smiling broadly. The good news for Mr. Roberts is that none of it is true. Tufts proceeded to put up a PowerPoint document to rebut various assertions made by lawyer Peter Frazier in the motion he filed in the case of Jacob Joseph Dix of Clarksville, Ohio. This motion helped Frazier succeed in getting Tufts and the rest of the prosecutors office tossed from the case in a pair of rulings, the most recent on Feb. 12. But the same document found less favor Tuesday. There are so many misrepresentations that the small ones start to build up, said Tufts. I called them misrepresentations, but I think theyre just lies. Among them, Tufts said, were allegations of close friendships with people he was emailing that summer, alleged misstatements of their roles in opposing the 2017 White nationalist rally in Charlottesville, unfairly parsing a quotation he made, and confusing a prior Charlottesville police review board with the one created in the wake of the rally. Even the judge, who issued no ruling Tuesday, seemed to question the wisdom of incorporating Fraziers motion. When you adopt something wholesale, its full of landmines, said Moore. Theres no shortage of hyperbole. While Roberts seemed at one point to agree that the motion had problems, he contended that Tufts had problems of his own. Hes not just an observer; hes not just a bystander, said Roberts. Hes a partisan. Roberts alleged that Tufts, then working at UVa Law School, tried to thwart the rally with an email he sent to its opponents, including leaders of Black Lives Matter and Showing Up for Racial Justice. These are Mr. Tufts people, said Roberts. These are his folks, and hes working for free because hes an interested party. Tufts conveyed his actions differently. People came to me with their concerns, said Tufts. I expressed community members concerns, but the idea that I was part of them is completely baseless. He added that hed never heard the word antifa before the summer of 2017. On Aug. 12 of that year, the day after the torch march currently prosecuted, self-avowed neo-Nazi James Fields of Ohio used his car as a weapon to smash through a crowd of counterprotesters who were out celebrating the cancelation of the rally. The attack killed one woman, Heather Heyer, injured dozens of others and resulted in state murder and federal hate crimes convictions that sent Fields away for what amounts to multiple life terms in prison. The 2017 torch cases are being pressed under Virginias so-called cross-burning statute, which bans using fire for racial intimidation. Written to prevent the Ku Klux Klan from igniting crosses to terrorize Black Virginians, its a felony that can carry a sentence up to five years. And in Virginia there is no statute of limitations on felonies. A felony conviction could be costly for Invictus. Since rising to prominence in 2016 with an unsuccessful Libertarian Party challenge to the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Marco Rubio and his admission he sacrificially killed a goat and drank its blood, his legal career has taken center stage. The 40-year-old, born Austin Mitchell Gillespie, is reportedly licensed to practice in four states and in federal court. Tuesdays hearing veered away the actions of the Albemarle prosecutors at times, such as when Roberts vowed to contest the timeliness of the prosecution. It also veered from commonwealth law when Roberts said the recent recusal of the prosecutor should happen in all torch cases. We wouldnt be talking about this if we were sitting in federal court, said Roberts. Were not in federal court, Tufts snapped back. I dont know if that argument is accurate, but its not relevant at all. Accused of harboring personal animus toward Invictus, Tufts recalled the mans bail hearing last fall. At that hearing, Invictus had noted his involvement in the lives of his six children, including taking two of them to Catholic school and daily mass. Tufts noted that he urged the judge at that hearing to give Invictus an unsecured, or cash-free, bail. After his legal opponent mentioned a pair of local candlelight vigils in a way that hinted at equivalence, Tufts also clarified something that had been previously hinted at but heretofore unstated. None of the torch prosecutions, Tufts said, would attempt to criminalize the fire-accompanied chants of Blood and soil and Jews will not replace us. Instead, he said the prosecutions are directed only at those who encircled counterprotesters that night at the base of the state of Founding Father Thomas Jefferson on UVa Grounds. The idea that surrounding those people is the same as a candlelight vigil is frankly offensive, said Tufts. Except for a moment when he harrumphed a statement by Commonwealths Attorney Jim Hingeley, Invictus never spoke during Tuesdays hearing. Outside of court, he was asked if he still drinks goat blood. Im his lawyer, shouted Roberts, attempting to derail the topic, but Invictus answered nonetheless. I drink human blood now, Invictus replied. I'm Catholic. Korean firms should acquire AI tech companies By John Burton Has Korea become too dependent on semiconductors, its main economic engine? It has been known for the last few years that Koreas chip industry, which accounts for as much as a fifth of the countrys exports, faces two main challenges. The first priority is to shift its focus from memory chips to more advanced ones that offer higher profit margins. The other is to reduce its dependence on the Chinese market due to U.S. efforts to restrict technology its main competitor's access to advanced technology. The last couple of years have been tough for Koreas semiconductor sector. Weak global demand has resulted in chip exports falling since August 2022. Koreas total exports decreased by 7.4 percent in 2023 due to the sluggish export performance of chips, which fell by 24 percent to $99 billion. The operating profit of Samsung Electronics, the worlds biggest producer of memory chips, fell to $5 billion last year, its worst result since 2008, as its memory chip division suffered large losses. The good news is that chip exports recovered towards the end of 2023. This should give time to plot a future strategy for the semiconductor industry. Analysts are more optimistic about the prospects for the chip industry this year due to increased corporate investments in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector as well as the release of new electronic products. The AI boom, however, could prove to be a double-edged sword for Korean chipmakers. AI-related devices will need more memory storage provided by the chips. But Korea is absent when it comes to producing the much more expensive chips that power generative AI. This sector is dominated by several U.S. chipmakers, including Nvidia, AMD and Intel. Korea is in danger of being marginalized or even shut out in the future AI chip industry. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, for example, is seeking a massive investment of up to $7 trillion to expand the global semiconductor industrys capacity to produce AI chips. What should worry Korea is that Altman is reportedly talking with Masayoshi Son, the head of the Japanese technology investment firm SoftBank, and officials from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Samsungs chief semiconductor rival, to finance and operate the new AI venture. Funding could also come from the United Arab Emirates, which might host some of the AI chip plants. The project would dominate global AI chip production and dwarf the size of the current global semiconductor industry, whose revenues amounted to $527 billion last year. The Yoon Suk Yeol government has made it clear that it wants to help the Korean chip industry stay competitive in the global market given its economic importance to the nation. With the U.S., China, Taiwan and Japan acting more aggressively to help their chip industries by offering tax breaks and improved infrastructure, Seoul has no other choice but to do the same if it wants Korea to produce cutting-edge chips. One plan, unveiled last month, is to build what is billed as the worlds largest chipmaking cluster at a cost of $470 billion over the next two decades. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix would help finance the project, supported by tax breaks from the government. It is envisioned that 13 new chip plants and three research facilities would be built between Pyeongtaek and Yongin. The project is important for two reasons. One is that Samsung wants to focus on boosting the manufacturing of more advanced and custom-designed semiconductors, such as logic chips that process information instead of memory chips that store it. This has been the biggest strength of arch-rival TSMC. Koreas goal is to increase its market share of global logic chip production to 10 percent by 2030 from 3 percent now as it works to also develop AI chips. The project would also reduce the exposure of Koreas chip industry to the Chinese market. This is in response to U.S. efforts to reduce Beijings access to global semiconductor technology by imposing stringent export controls. Both Samsung Electronics and SK hynix produce chips in China as well as selling them there. They faced the threat last year of the U.S. sanctioning them for upgrading their chipmaking machinery in these plants, although Washington later decided to grant an indefinite exemption. But the U.S. warning is likely to restrict their future production in China. As a result, the creation of a new semiconductor hub in the Pyeongtaek-Yongin corridor represents an onshoring move similar to the U.S. efforts to boost its domestic chip manufacturing by encouraging investment in the sector by both domestic and foreign companies. Another important next step is that infrastructure expansion at home should be matched by the Korean chipmakers using some of their large cash reserves to acquire AI technology companies to maintain their competitiveness. John Burton (johnburtonft@yahoo.com), a former Korea correspondent for the Financial Times, is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist and consultant. He is a guest editorial writer of The Korea Times. The United States on Tuesday vetoed an Arab-backed and widely supported U.N. resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war in the embattled Gaza Strip, saying it would interfere with negotiations on a deal to free hostages abducted in Israel. The vote in the 15-member Security Council was 13-1 with the United Kingdom abstaining, reflecting the strong support from countries around the globe for ending the war, which started when Hamas militants invaded southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. Since then, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israels military offensive, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which says the vast majority were women and children. It was the third U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution demanding a cease-fire in Gaza and came a day after the United States circulated a rival resolution that would support a temporary cease-fire linked to the release of all hostages. Virtually every council member including the United States expressed concern at the impending catastrophe in Gazas southern city of Rafah, where some 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge, if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu goes ahead with his plan to evacuate civilians and move Israels military offensive to the area bordering Egypt, where Israel says Hamas fighters are hiding. Before the vote, Algerias U.N. Ambassador Amar Bendjama, the Arab representative on the council, said: A vote in favor of this draft resolution is a support to the Palestinians right to life. Conversely, voting against it implies an endorsement of the brutal violence and collective punishment inflicted against them. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield countered by saying the United States understands the desire for urgent action but believes the resolution would negatively impact sensitive negotiations on a hostage deal and a pause in fighting for at least six weeks. If that happens, we can take the time to build a more enduring peace, she said. The proposed U.S. resolution, she said, would do what this text does not pressure Hamas to take the hostage deal that is on the table and help secure a pause that allows humanitarian assistance to reach Palestinian civilians in desperate need. She told reporters the Arab draft did not link the release of the hostages to a cease-fire, which would give Hamas a halt to fighting without requiring it to take any action. That would mean that the fighting would have continued because without the hostage releases we know that the fighting is going to continue, she said. Israels U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the word cease-fire is used in the Security Council, the General Assembly and by U.N. officials as if it is a silver bullet, a magical solution to all of the regions problems. He called that an absurd notion, warning that a cease-fire in Gaza would enable Hamas to rearm and regroup and their next attempted genocide against Israelis will only be a question of when, not if. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, shot back that the "message given today to Israel with this veto is that it can continue to get away with murder. He warned that more babies will be killed and orphaned, more children will die of hunger, cold and disease, more families will be threatened with further forced displacement, and Gazas entire 2.3 million population will be left without food, water, medicine and shelter. And in a sharply critical message to the United States, Israels closest ally, Mansour said: It means that human lives that could have been saved are instead being forsaken to Israels genocidal war machine, deliberately, knowingly, by those who oppose a cease-fire. What happens next remains to be seen. The 22-nation Arab Group could take its resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, which includes all 193 U.N. member nations, where it is virtually certain to be approved. But unlike Security Council resolutions, assembly resolutions are not legally binding. The Arab-backed resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire to be respected by all parties, which implies an end to the war. By contrast, the U.S. draft resolution would support a temporary cease-fire as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released, and call for lifting all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale. It is the first time the U.S. has used the word cease-fire, as opposed to cessation of hostilities. The Arab draft would also have demanded the immediate release of all hostages, rejected the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians and called for unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza. Without naming either party, it would have condemned all acts of terrorism and reiterated the councils unwavering commitment to a two-state solution with two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace. In measures sure to anger Israel and reinforce differences and tensions between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israels Netanyahu the U.S. draft resolution reiterates the same unwavering commitment to a two-state solution, which the Israeli leader opposes. Biden has repeatedly called on Israel to protect Palestinian civilians, and the draft resolution says Israels planned major ground offensive in Rafah should not proceed under current circumstances. In another criticism directed at Israel, the U.S. draft condemns calls by government ministers for the resettlement of Gaza and rejects an attempt at demographic or territorial change in Gaza that would violate international law. Thomas-Greenfield said the United States was not setting a deadline for a vote on its proposed resolution Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accused the United States of duplicitous and hypocritical calls for the council to wait for diplomacy to produce results on a hostage deal. It could not yield any results because the real goal of Washington is not to achieve peace in the Middle East, not to protect civilians, but rather to advance their geopolitical agenda, demanding at any cost for their closest Middle East ally to be shielded, Nebenzia told the council, claiming that the U.S. has given an effective license for Israel to kill Palestinians. While this was the third U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire, the council has adopted two resolutions on Gaza where the U.S. abstained. Its first resolution, on Nov. 15, called for humanitarian pauses to address the escalating crisis for Palestinian civilians. In late November, a seven-day pause led to the release of 120 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israels release of 200 Palestinian prisoners. On Dec. 22, the council adopted a watered-down resolution calling for immediately speeding aid deliveries to desperate civilians in Gaza, but without the original plea for an urgent suspension of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. It did call for creating the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities. The steps were not defined, but diplomats said it was the councils first reference to stopping fighting. Because of ongoing fighting and no new humanitarian pause, little aid has gotten into Gaza. (AP) Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Mostly cloudy with snow flurries and snow showers, especially in the afternoon. High around 35F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 40%.. 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. ReVeluvs discussed a long-known "defect" in Red Velvet's lightstick "Mandu Bong" in an online community. Here's what happened. Red Velvet's Lightstick Draws Frustration Among Luvies for 'Lacking' Glow Power On February 20, a forum, titled, "Is Red Velvet's cheering stick's luminous power for real?" was flocked by Korean netizens and ReVeluvs. In the thread, the author uploaded a photo showcasing Red Velvet in one of their concerts. The image implied that it was taken after the encore since it's only a mandatory move to have group photos for remembrance. However, OP specified the audience's and Red Velvet's lightsticks, which according to many, were lacking power. "For reference, all the fans have their lightsticks on," the author shared. Fans in the comments section expressed their shock at the claim, saying that the "light ocean" was barely visible to the eye. Some alleged that the Red Velvet members claimed that the lightsticks won't be renewed. Read their comments below: "I can't even see the light." "Is it because the official color isn't a primary color?" "The lightsticks are on? Wow." "This is why they never got renewed." "Even the members talked about it, they won't be renewing them." "What? They're really open?" "No, but this is indeed bad." On a different platform, international fans shared that the ReVeluv community, alongside Red Velvet, has complained about this defect for years. They also stated how its weak lighting was because of its plain white light relying on its RV logo to shine a color. They also drew out past tweets that showed complaints about the Mandu Bong's faint lighting and compared it to other Red Velvet fanlight merchandise. Others pointed out that while the Mandu Bong's dimness was noticeable, the photo uploaded was underexposed or flashy. "Fans have been complaining about how pathetically dim the Mandu Bong is for years now. Even the members themselves have mentioned it's weak. Unlike every other SM lightstick that lights up in its color, RV's lightstick light is white and only relies on the lightly colored RV logo to have any color. It's awful but at least, their Japanese lightsticks are cute and brightly colorful." pastel coral ocean... they really needs to increase the brightness of mandu bong pic.twitter.com/4ErRZ6C20U dip (@revevante) April 1, 2023 that one dim mandubong against the world pic.twitter.com/LMa7tXFWl4 (@seurrene_) September 23, 2023 why are the japan rv fanlight merch better than rvs official lightstick...why is it brighter... pic.twitter.com/ImhU9zaUCv September 10, 2023 "We've been complaining for years." "It just kinda looks like they took a picture of a crowd who got their phones up in the air." "The lights on the fan signs are much stronger when they are usually on the same level of brightness as the lightsticks." "The lightstick isn't the brightest. But this photo is underexposed/too bright a flash on the camera or both." In other news, ReVeluvs gathered in a post to reminisce Red Velvet's rookie photos ahead of their 10th debut anniversary. To know more about the appreciation thread, click here! Do you want a new lightstick for Red Velvet? What are your thoughts on the Mandu Bong? Let us know in the comments below! Read KpopStarz for more K-pop news. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: ReVeluvs Relish 10 Years of 'Happiness' by Reminiscing Red Velvet's Debut Photos KpopStarz owns this article Written by Riely Miller GILMER, Texas An East Texas man who's been on the run for more than a week after allegedly Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. A 34-year-old Albany man is serving prison time for a knife attack at a bottle and can redemption center. Indicted for second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, unlawful weapon use, and tampering with evidence, Andres Salvador Lara pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of second-degree assault. Earlier this month, Lara was ordered to serve five years and 10 months in prison, the minimum sentence for second-degree assault under state law. He was also sentenced to three years of post-prison supervision and fined $200. The remaining charges were dismissed under a plea agreement. A Place to Sleep, episode 2: Albany, part II Last week we introduced Dusty Bryant, who police evicted from Albany's designated resting site for homeless individuals. This week, we check in to see what's happening with Dusty. The assault took place the morning of May 7 at the BottleDrop Redemption Center on Santiam Highway Southeast and Columbus Street, according to a probable cause affidavit from the Albany Police Department. At around 7 a.m. that morning, police were called to a report of a stabbing at Crossroads Laundromat on Pacific Boulevard Southeast, the affidavit states, adding the caller told dispatch she found an upset man with deep wounds at the location. Officers arrived minutes later, finding the man wrapped in a blanket, according to the affidavit, which states the victim was struggling to stay awake, talking very low and appeared to be very lethargic, with two cuts showing on his bloodstained shirt. It was later determined the victim had been stabbed three times: once in the right side of his chest and twice in his right arm. According to the affidavit, he had blood and air in his peritoneum, indicating his chest cavity was punctured, as well as blood and air around his kidney and lung. The victim wasnt immediately able to tell officers who stabbed him or where it happened but said the suspect drove away in a Honda and mentioned a Verizon store as a location, the affidavit states. An officer continued talking with him in an ambulance, learning the stabbing occurred at the BottleDrop. Investigating the scene, police found a windbreaker jacket with a significant blood pool beneath it near Los Dos Amigos Hacienda next door to the BottleDrop, according to the affidavit. On the restaurants security video, officers reportedly saw the victim arrive as a passenger in a Honda Accord driven by a heavyset Hispanic man later identified as Lara. Lara was seen on the video getting out of the car while carrying a large red knife, walking to where the victim was last seen, getting back in the car, and driving away, according to the affidavit. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by becoming a subscriber today. Police tracked the car and Lara to an apartment in the 2100 block of Geary Street Southeast, where he was arrested at around 9:30 a.m. May 7, telling officers he was drinking beer the night before and didnt remember what happened aside from going to get more beer at the US Market, the affidavit states. A knife resembling the one seen on the security video was found in the apartments kitchen, reportedly freshly washed, along with a sweatshirt in a pile of clothes that matched what Lara was seen wearing at the time of the stabbing, according to the affidavit. Lara is currently held at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, according to Oregon Department of Corrections records. Related story: Albany police arrest man accused of attempted murder Albany police have accused a man of attempted murder, assault and more. Sweet Home police were recognized at the Capitol this week for the agencys role in arresting a man suspected of making threats involving firearms. Sweet Home Police Department collaborated with Portland FBI field office after the man allegedly made statements about using firearms against the Eugene Police Department and Riverbend Hospital security staff. A Place to Sleep, episode 4: Sweet Home In Sweet Home, you'll find the region's only designated sleeping place for folks actively self-medicating with alcohol and narcotics. Initially, I was unaware of the full significance and all the details related to the arrest, police Chief Jason Ogden said via email. It was only several days later that I was contacted by the FBI, informing me about the extensive investigation and the commendable efforts of Detective (Sean) Potter in handling this case. Ogden added he received a letter of gratitude from Eugene police Chief Chris Skinner, thanking the Sweet Home department for its diligent work, which had a direct impact on Eugenes operations as well, Ogden said. On Jan. 4, Detective Potter was contacted by the FBI about concerning statements allegedly made by 40-year-old Sweet Home resident Ryan Randall Carbon, according to a probable cause affidavit filed by Potter. An associate of Carbons described him as being frequently under the influence of narcotics, randomly showing up at the persons residence with numerous firearms and ammunition, including handguns, AR-15 rifles and body armor, according to the affidavit. During a visit with the associate, Carbon allegedly said he was seeking revenge against Eugene police and Riverbend security because of a driving under the influence arrest on Christmas Eve, according to the affidavit. Carbon allegedly told his associate he was armed to the teeth and going to split the world in two. Carbon also said he was headed to Lebanon to kill some gangbangers, according to the affidavit. Shortly after leaving the associates residence, Carbon was pulled over by a Sweet Home police officer and arrested under the suspicion of DUI, the affidavit states, noting a search of the vehicle yielded a concealed, loaded Smith & Wesson pistol tucked between the drivers seat and center console. Further searching revealed another seven firearms, including a 12-gauge shotgun that was reported stolen, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition along with numerous loaded magazines, according to the affidavit. Carbon is charged with felony unlawful weapon use and misdemeanor unlawful possession of firearms, according to court records. The state is seeking an enhanced sentence if hes found guilty, citing great risk or harm as the defendant expressed intent to commit multiple mass shootings. Carbon was held at the Linn County Jail on $250,000 bail, according to jail records. A trial date of Tuesday, Feb. 27 was rescheduled for April 16. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by becoming a subscriber today. During a City Council meeting last week, Sweet Home Mayor Susan Coleman read appreciation letters from the FBI and Eugene Police Department. The mayor also presented a plaque on behalf of the council to the Sweet Home Police Department for its dedication and service. Ogden, Potter, and Capt. Ryan Cummings posed for photos in the Oregon Senate Chamber on Tuesday, Feb. 20. They also met up with eighth graders from Sweet Home Junior High School on a field trip to Salem that day. PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 21: Baccarose, a leading name in the fragrance and beauty distribution industry, is proud to announce the introduction of Alexandre.J, a renowned French luxury perfume brand, to discerning fragrance enthusiasts in India. Alexandre.J stands out as a niche brand that meticulously crafts each fragrance to tell a unique story. With a science of names referencing different fragrances, the brand focuses on developing an olfactive record that captures the essence of luxury, artistry, and creativity. Also Read | Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play Tonight in Al-Nassr vs Al Feiha AFC Champions League 2023-24 Match? Here's the Possibility of CR7 Featuring in Starting XI. Launched in France in 2012, Alexandre.J takes pride in its 100 per cent Made in France production. The perfumes are meticulously crafted in Honfleur, Normandy, while the oil fabrication takes place in Grasse, the heart of perfumery worldwide. The brand has a global presence in more than 85 countries, showcasing its commitment to selective distribution and reaching passionate perfume enthusiasts worldwide. Commenting on the launch, Kadambari Lakhani, Director, Baccarose Perfumes & Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd. said, "We are thrilled to launch Alexandre.J Perfumes in India, offering a perfect blend of artistry and accessibility in niche perfumery. This collaboration resonates with the increasing demand for luxury fragrances in India. We are confident that Alexandre.J's dedication to quality and personalization will strongly appeal to fragrance enthusiasts across the country. We look forward to enhancing India's olfactory experience by introducing the global standard of elegance and innovation in perfumery." Also Read | MD Drugs in Navi Mumbai: Jogeshwari Resident Arrested With Mephedrone Worth Rs 7.5 Lakh in Vashi. Commenting into entrance in the Indian market, Amelie Jabban, visionary Global Brand Director of Alexandre.J, said "Entering the vibrant and diverse Indian market is an exhilarating moment for Alexandre.J. We bring more than just fragrances to India; we bring an orchestration of creativity, ingenuity, and opulence. Our partnership with Baccarose showcases our unwavering dedication to delivering an unparalleled olfactory experience to the Indian consumer. As we unveil our distinct collections - each a unique journey of scent and emotion - we invite our customers to embrace the epitome of French luxury perfumery, where every fragrance tells a story of sophistication and creativity." Alexandre.J offers distinct collections - The Collector, Art Deco and Art Nouveau, each reflecting the brand's dedication to artistry, high-quality ingredients, and a wide olfactive range. The Collector Collection: A Tapestry of Alchemy Celebrating the fusion of Oriental desert and French Baroque architecture, "The Collector" Collection unveils 10 Eaux De Parfum, each encased in distinctive aluminum bottles. From the chic elegance of Black Muscs to the captivating warmth of Morning Muscs and the sparkling joy of Rose Oud, this collection is a testament to art, culture, and the olfactive range of emotions. Art Deco Collection: A Glimpse into the Roaring Twenties Honoring the 1920s Art Deco period, the "Art Deco" Collection presents six fragrances, each a journey into opulence. From the powdery elegance of The Majestic Musk to the festive exuberance of The Majestic Jardin, these perfumes, presented in jewelry-like fashion, captivate with high-prized formulations and visual splendor. Art Nouveau Collection: Luxury Redefined as an Art Form In a groundbreaking reinvention, the "Art Nouveau" Collection showcases five fragrances, each a unique expression of luxury as an art form. Handmade glass bottles, inspired by Art Nouveau, house dynamic, uplifting, and delicate scents, creating a harmony between design and aroma. Baccarose is strategically introducing Alexandre.J into the thriving fragrance market of India, aligning with the country's growing appreciation for luxury and artistic expression. With its strong presence in the Indian market, Baccarose is orchestrating an exclusive launch that highlights Alexandre.J's focus on quality, exclusivity, and personalization. This partnership enriches Baccarose's fragrance portfolio, adding the unique and sophisticated offerings of Alexandre.J. The collaboration reinforces Baccarose's position as a leader in the Indian fragrance market, introducing a world of artistry and enhancing sensory experiences. Alexandre.J's addition not only strengthens Baccarose's hold in luxury fragrances but also underscores its commitment to providing Indian consumers access to global standards of elegance and innovation in perfumery. ABOUT ALEXANDRE.J: Launched in France in 2012, Alexandre.J proudly produces its creations in France. Breaking the codes of traditional perfumery, the brand's perfume collections embody the alliance of luxurious packaging and exceptional fragrances. From captivating floral notes to exotic blends, each collection tells a unique olfactive story, inviting individuals to explore and embrace the art of perfumery.For more information, visit: https://www.alexandre-j.com/ About Baccarose: In 1984, Mr. Hemansu Kotecha founded Baccarose and soon began making inroads into the burgeoning Indian beauty industry. With an unparalleled understanding of local customer preferences and a prized operational nous, Baccarose today is a leader in the distribution of international luxury beauty brands in India. The core mission & vision of the company is to be the leading authority in the Indian luxury Beauty market and undisputed partner-of-choice for leading international brands. To build the Luxury Beauty business in India, establish our partner luxury brands as preferred choices for consumers/retailers and bring an international shopping experience to consumers in India. For more information, visit: https://baccarose.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2343320/Baccarose_Perfumes_Beauty_Product.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], February 21 (ANI): Globe Textiles (India) Limited, a globally recognised garment manufacturer, supplier, and trader has received in-principle approval from the stock exchange NSE for a proposed right issue of up to 15,11,41,500 equity shares. The company said in a press release on Wednesday that this strategic initiative underscored the company's commitment to enhancing shareholder value and fortifying its financial position for sustainable growth. Also Read | Inter Miami vs Real Salt Lake, MLS 2024 Live Streaming Online in India: How to Watch Football Match Live Telecast on TV & Score Updates in IST?. The rights issue is an invitation to the existing shareholders to purchase additional shares of the company within a specific period at a discounted price. Bhavin Parikh, Chief Executive Officer at Globe Textiles (India) Limited, said the funds will fuel its forward integration plans via acquisition. Also Read | Maharashtra Food Poisoning: 200 Fall Ill After Consuming 'Maha-Prasad' at Religious Event in Buldhana; All Stable. "It will enhance our asset base, margins and topline as well as introduce innovative sustainable fashion garments and practices that are sought after by customers from India, Europe and the US. We are confident that this development will enhance the estimated top line by 120 crores to about 520 crores while improving margin by 2027- 28," Parikh added. Globe Textiles recorded revenue from operations of Rs 9282.96 lakhs for the quarter ended December 31, 2023. For the nine months ended December 31, 2023, the company reported revenue of Rs 32,761.63 lakhs. The company recorded a profit before tax of Rs 198.83 lakhs in the quarter, which is a good sign of growth compared to previous periods. Additionally, Globe Textiles reported a profit after tax of Rs 163.83 lakhs for the quarter and Rs 444.71 lakhs for the nine months ending on December 31, 2023. As per the release, the company's profit after tax increased 4x from Rs 47.61 lakhs to Rs 163.83 lakhs in the previous comparative quarter. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) PNN New Delhi [India], February 21: After raising an undisclosed seed round last year, the Gurugram based re-commerce disruptor, Grest, is witnessing an extraordinary growth trajectory. The event has resulted in a five-fold increase in its revenue and bringing pride to its stakeholders who reap the benefits of an eco-friendly market brand while prioritizing sustainability. Driven by this momentum, the company now strives to achieve a revenue milestone of INR 100 Crores in FY-25. Currently operating in 14 states in India, Grest is ambitiously planning to emerge as the most-trusted customer-centric brand, empowering people with technology and driving its revenue through both online sales and offline retail outlets. The company is also set to aggressively expand its offline presence through experience centers and distribution channel partners, to serve the entire nation. Also Read | Tata Nexon Dark Edition Likely To Launch Soon: Check Expected Design, Specifications and Features. Grest (Radical Aftermarket Services Pvt. Ltd.), is a leading player in the refurbished electronics industry. The company is establishing itself as a premium brand for refurbished phones and laptops in top-notch condition, to cater to a growing consumer base for refurbished electronics. It differentiates itself as a reliable refurbished device brand with a peace of mind warranty without breaking the bank. The company aims to supply best-in-class phones sourced from trusted vendors, each of which undergo a meticulous refurbishment process in Grest's state-of-the-art facility along with 50+ rigorous quality checks, ensuring they are as good as new when they reach a consumer. Grest operates a robust technology-enabled inventory system to serve the market demands. The company offers an exclusive range of best-in-class refurbished devices, serving the growing demand of premium quality in India. The company has not only been addressing consumer aspirations, but has also been able to reduce carbon footprint in the last 5 years by extending the lifespan of electronic devices and reducing electronic waste. The company endeavors to generate more employment opportunities and foster economic growth in the country. Also Read | Manisha Kalyan Shines As India Win Closely-Fought Battle Against Estonia in Turkish Women's Cup 2024. Founded in 2018 by two friends and MBA graduates from MDI Gurugram, Shrey Sardana (Co-founder & CEO) and Nitin Goyal (Co-founder & COO), Grest strives commitment towards sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction pursuits. The leadership team at Grest is further fortified by the expertise of CTO Sanjeev Aggarwal, a seasoned professional and an industry veteran with over 23 years of experience, including leadership roles in global IT companies. Grest as a brand has a commitment to have a continuous focus on quality assurance, innovative refurbishment processes, and customer satisfaction to gain a competitive edge. This line of action is helping the company to maintain its excellence position for long-term success and increased market share. To know more, visit their website: www.grest.in (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. 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) NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 21: Pavitra Vivah, an esteemed Marathi matrimony portal from Sou. Kulkarni Marriage Bureau with a legacy spanning over 40 years, is hosting the 2nd edition of the 'Maharashtra Wedding Festival', a three-day extravaganza showcasing the cultural vibrancy of weddings, thriving economy behind the big fat Indian weddings, job creation, safeguarding of traditional arts and crafts while promoting the Government of India's flagship initiative, 'Wed In India'. Also Read | 2024 Kawasaki Z900, 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 Launched in India; Check Prices, Specifications, Features and Colours of Two New Kawasaki Bikes. The Grand Wedding Show will take place at BMC Ground, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park, Dadar (W) from 23rd to 25th Feb offering Mumbaikars a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in wedding fashion, discover innovative wedding planning ideas, and connect with renowned vendors from across Maharashtra. As a pioneering force in fostering meaningful unions, Pavitra Vivah is presenting a festival that not only celebrates love but also addresses diverse aspects of matrimony. Also Read | Delhi Chalo Agitation: Farmer Dies During Protest, Haryana Police Calls It a 'Rumour'. The Maharashtra Wedding Festival promises to be a unique experience with a variety of events catering to different segments of society. A poignant celebration of love transcending economic barriers, underscoring the inclusivity and the essence of 'Wed In India' will be displayed at the 'Mass Wedding' where couples from the underprivileged community from nearby areas of Raigad, Palghar, Thane districts will get married. The festival encompasses a diverse range of events spanning 3 days, including match-making meets tailored for business owners, individuals seeking second marriages with 'Punha Navyane, Navya Dilane', and those exploring inter-caste alliances with 'Natyanchi Navi Navlai'. Expert-led marriage counselling workshops curated as 'Lagnaadhi Bolu Kahi', 'Thoda Tuza Thoda Maza', enlightening panel discussions with celebrity couples. The event also intends to bring Marathi EDM music at the forefront with a captivating performance by the band Kratex titled 'Public Halad', who is all set to do their maiden show in Mumbai, another music show all set to enthrall Mumbaikars will be 'Julun Yeti Reshimgathi' which will add depth and insight to the wedding vibes the festival plans to spread. One of the unique highlights is a fashion show titled 'Walk for Wedding' spotlighting the talent & sheer hard work of blue-collared workers like Caterers, Florists, Security, Lightmen, etc from the wedding industry, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the Indian wedding industry which is witnessing a robust recovery, growing at an annual rate of 7-8% which has touched $75 billion in the 2023-24 wedding season, marking a significant rebound from pandemic impacts. Given India's huge wedding economy, a preference for local destinations will prove to be a huge boost. Rushikesh Kadam, Director, Pavitravivah.com shares,"Pavitra Vivah's 'Maharashtra Wedding Festival is more than just an event; it is a reflection of the diversity, resilience, and inclusivity inherent in Indian weddings. Beyond being a celebration of love, today weddings emerge as beacons for economic growth within the community, symbolizing not only the union of two individuals but also the harmonious collaboration of various talents, contributing to a flourishing local economy." (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) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Wayanad (Kerala) [India], February 21 (ANI): Union Minister Bhupender Yadav met the families of the victims who lost their lives in the man-animal conflict in Wayanad in the last few days. "Met the families of Prajeesh, Paul and Ajeesh, who lost their lives in the man-animal conflict in Wayanad recently. Their loss is irreparable," Yadav said in a post on 'X'. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Holds Productive Meeting With Greek Counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis; Talks on Technology and Space Take Centre Stage. His visit comes days after Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi abruptly halted his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Varanasi, and left for his constituency, prompted by public protest over the deaths of residents in wild elephant attacks. He visited the homes of the families and interacted with them. The Environment Minister on Wednesday assured all support to the bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls of the deceased. Also Read | Modi Government Okays 8% Hike in Sugarcane Price, Move To Benefit 5 Crore Farmers. "Assured them the government, led by PM Shri @narendramodiji, stands with the families in their hour of grief. We will ensure full support to get their lives back on track. I pray the departed souls rest in eternal peace," Yadav said. "Also asked members of @BJP4Keralam to extend all possible help to the people in the region to ensure a harmonious man-animal coexistence," he added. In a heartwrenching post on 'X', the Union Minister shared his interaction with a young child who lost his father in the recent man-animal conflict. "Pains my heart to know that young Alna has lost her father Ajeesh to the man-animal conflict in Wayanad. Truly appreciate her strength of character which she displayed in our meeting, and the clarity with which she put forth her expectations from the government, even in the face of grief. Alna sure is a daughter to be proud of. Assured her that the @BJP4India government at the Centre stands by her family," Yadav posted. The Environment Minister also visited the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and reviewed the state of man-animal conflicts in the region on his way to Wayanad. "On my way to Wayanad, visited the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and reviewed the state of man-animal conflicts in the region. Discussed steps that can be implemented to ensure human-animal coexistence," Yadav said in another post on 'X'. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Minister also held a detailed discussion with his party leaders and farmer leaders at Wayanad. "At Wayanad, I held a detailed discussion with BJP workers and farmer leaders. They shared a list of demands with us. I informed them about the work we are doing under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Yadav said. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Panaji (Goa) [India], February 21 (ANI): A case has been registered against a Russian national for allegedly sexually abusing a six-year-old child during a children's camp in Goa's Arambol village, a top police said on Wednesday. Bossuet Silva Superintendent of Police (SP) told ANI, "The child is Russian. Both her Parents are Russian. She is a six-year-old child". Also Read | Union Cabinet Chaired by PM Narendra Modi Gives Go-Ahead for up to 100% FDI in Space Sector. He said that the incident took place between February 4th and 5th. "There was a children's camp organised at Arambol. The child was dropped by her parents over there. Next morning, the parents collected her," SP added. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Holds Productive Meeting With Greek Counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis; Talks on Technology and Space Take Centre Stage. "Afterwards the child narrated to parents about the improper touches and molestation, sexual abuse," He said. "We have registered a case on the complaint lodged two days back by the mother of the child under provisions of the Indian Penal Code, under the Goa Children Act and Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences Act," he said. On the accused being identified, he said, "She has given his details like name. We do not have his full name. We are in touch with the Foreigners Registers Office. He has supposedly left Goa'. "..If he is in India, lookout notice will be issued and he will be stopped if he tries to depart...," he added. The case is under investigation, he said, adding that there was a delay on the part of the complainant. "She was initially confused and did not know what to do. After taking advice from locals, she approached the police station," he added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Srinagar, Feb 21 (PTI) The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has given the "last and final opportunity" to the Union territory administration to file a reply to a petition filed by Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq against curbs on his movement. The court fixed the next date of hearing on March 6. Also Read | Salaries in India To Increase by 9.5% in 2024 As Infrastructure and Manufacturing Industries Continue To Project Robust Growth: Report. Justice Wasim Sadiq Narwal, while granting the plea of the government seeking one week's time for filing the reply to Mirwaiz's petition, said it was the "last and final opportunity". "Reluctantly and in the interest of justice, one week's time as prayed for is granted for doing the needful, which however, shall be the last and final opportunity. Also Read | Kerala: Russian Tourist Collapses in Sea at Edava Near Varkala, Dies in Hospital. "It is made clear, if reply is not filed, then the matter will be heard on the next date of hearing," the court ordered. On February 2, the court had asked the administration to file a reply positively by or before the February 19. Meanwhile, the Mirwaiz said the Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid had approached the district authorities to know the reasons for curbs placed on him on Fridays and other important religious days. "After my release in September 2023 from four years of arbitrary house detention, I was only allowed to attend three consecutive Friday congregations in Jamia masjid. Since then I have been prevented from going to Jamia masjid on Fridays or addressing the faithful in any other mosque on religious congregations as the Mirwaiz," Farooq told PTI. He said authorities use "dilly dallying" tactics when asked by Anjuman, the managing body of the historic Jamia Masjid, for the reasons for the curbs. "They say they will check with their higher ups and get back, which they never do. Recently, despite the the important religious occasion of shab e Miraj, I was again not allowed to go to Jamia masjid," he said. The Mirwaiz said the approach of the authorities was disconcerting as the fasting month of Ramzan was approaching and "there are multiple religious events and congregations planned for me as the Mirwaiz". (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) [India], February 21 (ANI): District administration along with municipal corporation removed illegal encroachments citing order of NGT (National Green Tribunal) in Bhadbhada area in the state capital Bhopal on Wednesday. A large number of police personnel were deployed in the area during the action being taken. According to reports, about 300 houses are illegal here, which are built on the banks of the lake. The administration had sent them a notice based on the order of NGT and after surpassing the time boundary, the action was being taken to remove the encroachment. Also Read | Another Critic on Vladimir Putins Hit List? Kremlin Source Urges Watch Health of Jailed Dissident. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Anil Shukla told ANI, "It was an illegal encroachment on the instructions of NGT and action is underway to remove it with the cooperation of the police, municipal corporation and district administration. Everyone is removing their belongings voluntarily and they are being provided support by the administration." Around 1000 police personnel have been deployed here. Everyone is removing things on their own and family members of everyone's house are present here, he added. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Fire: Massive Blaze Erupts at Chemical Factory in Meerut (Watch Video). Meanwhile, Congress leader Santosh Kansana, who was persent on the spot, claimed it was an act of dictatorship of the Municipal Corporation and the administration. "This is absolutely an act of dictatorship of the Municipal Corporation and the administration. Five years ago, the Municipal Corporation did the work of setting up sewage lines and water lines in the same settlement (Basti). If it was illegal then why did the Municipal Corporation install the civil lines and water lines? People have been living here for 50 years. People are not being given any alternative arrangement," Kansana said. On one hand the government claims that houses are being given to the poor under PM Awas Yojana but here the houses of the poor are being demolished. It is a dictatorship, the congress leader added. Besides, people whose houses were razed down alleged that the action was taken after a grand hotel was built in their area. Their houses seem like garbage in front of the hotel due to which they are facing action. As we saw in movies that settlements used to be removed in front of hotels, the same situation is being followed here, a resident alleged. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Nuh (Haryana), Feb 21 (PTI) Police have slapped charges under the stringent UAPA against opposition Congress MLA Mamman Khan in the Nuh violence case. The charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have been imposed against Khan, the MLA from Ferozpur Jhirka, in a case registered at Nagina police station here. Also Read | Modi Government Okays 8% Hike in Sugarcane Price, Move To Benefit 5 Crore Farmers. Police have added charges under the UAPA to the FIR, Khan's counsel said on Wednesday. The police had earlier accused Khan of inciting violence and being in contact with suspects involved in sharing provocative posts on social media. Besides, he also faces some other charges in the FIR. Also Read | Gujarat Fire: Massive Blaze Erupts After Tanker Overturns on Ahmedabad-Mumbai National Highway in Valsad District (Watch Video). Khan was last year arrested in connection with the Nuh violence case and granted bail by the court later. Advocate Tahir Hussain Rupariya, counsel of the accused, said that he sought a status report from the court in which it came to light that UAPA section has also been added to the FIR registered at Nagina police station. Six people, including two home guards and a cleric, died in the clashes that erupted in Nuh after a procession of the VHP was attacked by mobs on July 31 last year and spread to adjoining areas, including Gurugram where an Imam was killed. Meanwhile, speaking in the Haryana Assembly during the ongoing Budget session, Congress MLA from Nuh Aftab Ahmed questioned why UAPA has been invoked in three cases registered at Nuh police station and another one at Nagina police station after the challan had been presented in the court. He also said that the UAPA is invoked against terrorists. In one of the cases, a Congress legislator has been booked under UAPA, said Ahmed in the state assembly, while questioning why UAPA was not slapped in the Gurugram case where an Imam was killed in violence last year. Earlier, police slapped charges under the UAPA against the accused in three cases connected to the murder of two home guards and a Bajrang Dal member and an attack on a cyber police station six months ago. While the charges were not included in the initial FIRs related to the cases, court documents showed these were added to the challan presented in a court to oppose the bail petition filed by the accused. (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 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the start of the tribal festival, Sammakka-Sarakka Medaram Jathara, in Telangana on Wednesday. "Greetings on the start of the Sammakka-Sarakka Medaram Jathara, one of the largest tribal festivals, and a vibrant manifestation of the enduring spirit of our cultural heritage," the Prime Minister said in a post on X. "This Jathara is a great fusion of devotion, tradition and community spirit. We bow to Sammakka-Sarakka and recall the spirit of unity and valour they personify," he said. Bachi ko Pareshan Mat Karo: PM Narendra Modis Appeal to Man Carrying Child on Shoulder in Jammu; Video Surfaces. Sammakka Saralamma Jathara is the time for the largest tribal religious congregation in the world, held every two years (biennually), with approximately ten million people converging on the place, over a period of four days, which is 90km from Warangal city. PM Modi Extends Greetings on Tribal Festival: , - . , , . - , Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 21, 2024 Sammakka Saralamma Jathara or Medaram Jathara is a tribal festival honoring the goddesses celebrated in Telangana. It is a state festival of the Government of Telangana. The Jathara begins at Medaram in Tadvai Mandal in Mulugu district. It commemorates the fight of a mother and daughter, Sammakka and Saralamma, with the reigning rulers against an unjust law. PM Narendra Modi To Lay Foundation Stone of Interactive Sant Ravidas Museum in Varanasis Seer Goverdhanpur; Grand Museum Will Depict Legacy of Poet. It is believed that after the Kumbha Mela, the Medaram Jathara attracts the largest number of devotees in the country. The state government has allocated Rs 105 crores arrangements of the festival. Lakhs of devotees are expected to attend the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara to be held from February 21 to 24. Large Crowd Gather in Medaram Village To Celebrate Festival: #WATCH | Mulugu, Telangana: Hundreds gather as the Telangana Government organised the tribal festival Sammakka Saralamma Jathara in the Medaram village of Mulugu district pic.twitter.com/vLfpQZv67X ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 The state government has arranged for 6000 special buses for the fair. Constant surveillance with thousands of policemen at the site has also been ensured. An estimated 10 million people gathered in 2012. It is celebrated in Medaram during the time the goddesses of the tribals are believed to visit them. During the festival, deities are brought from the forest to a spot for 10-12 days. More than one crore devotees offer prayers and gift "bangaram", which is pure jaggery to the deities. The festival is also known for witnessing one of the largest people gatherings in the world. Medaram is a remote place in the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of Dandakaranya, the largest surviving forest belt in the Mulugu district. New Delhi, Feb 21 (PTI) In a major drug haul, police have seized around 900 kg of Mephedrone -- street name "Meow Meow" -- from two locations in south Delhi, officials said on Wednesday, putting the total value of the seizure at more than Rs 2,000 crore. The seizure was made following raids by officials of Pune and Delhi police forces on Tuesday in Kotla Mubarakpur and Hauz Khas. Also Read | Rajasthan: Three Labourers Killed After Being Buried Under Heavy Rock at Granite Mine in Pali (Watch Video). The bust in Delhi was based on information from the Pune Police, which is probing a case registered by it under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, they said. Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant often associated with the "rave party culture" for its euphoric effects, a senior police officer said and added that it is known as "Meow Meow" on the streets. Also Read | Salaries in India To Increase by 9.5% in 2024 As Infrastructure and Manufacturing Industries Continue To Project Robust Growth: Report. Over the last two days raids were conducted in Pune and in the national capital, the officials said and added that a total of 1,100 kg of Mephedrone worth Rs 2,500 crore in the international market was seized from the two cities. "On Tuesday, a team of the Pune Police's Crime Branch requested for a joint raid in connection with the case registered under the NDPS Act in Pune. It had already arrested three people and seized Mephedrone," the officer said. The officer said based on information from those arrested, a raid was conducted at Kotla Mubarakpur in Delhi. Around 300 kg of Mephedrone was seized and two people arrested. "On further interrogation, around 600 kg of Mephadrone was seized recovered from a rented shop in Masjid Moth in Hauz Khas. The room and the shop were recently taken on rent," the officer said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], February 21 (ANI): Congress leader Sonia Gandhi was elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan on Tuesday. Earlier on February 14, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi filed her nomination for the Rajya Sabha election from Rajasthan. Also Read | Agra Factory Blast: Two Killed, One Injured in Explosion at Factory in Uttar Pradesh. Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra congratulated Sonia Gandhi and said, "Congratulations to respected Sonia Gandhi ji on being elected unopposed as Rajya Sabha member from Rajasthan and best wishes for a bright tenure." "We have full confidence that your extensive parliamentary experience, excellent work efficiency, and unlimited decency will make the Upper House proud and the dignity of Rajasthan will increase and the issues of the people of the state will be raised," he posted on X on Tuesday. Also Read | Delhi Traffic Update for February 21: Commuters Advised to Avoid Several Roads in Central Delhi on Wednesday. Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who had represented the seat since 2004 informed voters of Rae Bareli that she would not contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls due to health and age issues. Saying that she would not seek a fresh term in the Lower House from the Congress stronghold in the upcoming polls, Sonia wrote on February 15, "My family in Delhi is incomplete without you. It becomes complete after visiting Rae Bareli--meeting you all. This relationship is very old and deep, which I have received from my in-laws' house as fortune." Expanding on the 'relationship' that the Gandhi family shares with the people of Rae Bareli, the veteran Congress leader stated further, "In the first Lok Sabha polls after independence, you elected my father-in-law, Firoze Gandhi, and sent him to Delhi as your representative. Later, you elected my mother-in-law, Indira Gandhi, as your representative. With so many ups and downs, this relationship of ours continued to be on the path of love and excitement. And our dedication towards it gradually strengthened." Sonia was elected as an MP from Rae Bareli for the first time in 2004. Since then, the Congress leader has been representing the Congress stronghold in the Lower House. The current chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party served as the party's national president for almost 22 years, between 1998 and 2022, and is a five-time Lok Sabha MP from Rae Bareli. The move to file nominations for Rajya Sabha comes ahead of Lok Sabha polls expected to be held in April-May this year. There are 10 Rajya Sabha seats in Rajasthan. In the upcoming biennial elections, three seats in the State are up for grabs. The ruling BJP is set to get two of the seats, while the Opposition Congress will get one, on the basis of their respective strengths in the State Assembly. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who was last elected to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, is retiring in April this year. The term of Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav will come to an end this April. Besides one Rajya Sabha seat in the State has become vacant after the resignation of the BJP's Kirodi Lal Meena. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Puducherry, Feb 21 (PTI) Responding to speculations on her contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan on Wednesday said that her inner intention was to be a people's representative, but the decision would depend on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Tamilisai was speaking to reporters at Raj Nivas (office cum residence of the Lieutenant Governor) on completing three years in the office when she was asked if she would be BJP's candidate in Puducherry for the Lok Sabha election. "I am an ordinary person. What they (Prime Minister and Home Minister) ask me to do, I will do as I am an ordinary worker. I have never said anywhere that I will contest the Lok Sabha polls, more particularly from Puducherry. "I have never demanded anything in my life. I am an ordinary worker who will implicitly abide by the decision from above," she said. Tamilisai told reporters that she had been discharging her duties and serving the people "in a transparent and objective manner" keeping the welfare of the people in mind. She recalled how she had helped procure vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped the Union Territory emerge as a model in combating the virus. Asserting that she never considered Puducherry as a different region given its historic association with stalwarts like Aurobindo and Subramania Bharati, Tamilisai said she felt sorry about some people dubbing her an 'outsider'. She listed the works done by her in various sectors, more particularly in health after assuming office three years ago. She said she was keen to ensure that public money be spent judiciously. Tamilisai thanked the Prime Minister and Home Minister for guiding her in providing a better administration in Puducherry in coordination with the elected government. PTI COR Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Fire: Massive Blaze Erupts at Chemical Factory in Meerut (Watch Video). Also Read | Rajasthan: Three Labourers Killed After Being Buried Under Heavy Rock at Granite Mine in Pali (Watch Video). (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Could the long delayed partial sell-off of Ethio Telecom finally be taking place? Ethiopias Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has indicated this week that his government is discussing selling 10% of the state-owned telecoms company. However, the sale of Ethio Telecom is not going to happen via an external stock exchange; it is to take place through a local stock exchange that is being launched this year. According to messaging on social media platform X, Abiy described the launch of the East African country's stock exchange as "a game-changer, supporting Ethiopia in achieving its growth aspirations and attracting new capital". According to a source quoted by Reuters, the government plans to retain 45% of Ethio Telecom, sell 45% to investors and list 10% on the stock exchange. Who will buy the 45% is unclear. We reported in November 2023 that Orange had pulled out of plans to acquire a 45% stake in Ethio Telecom, stating it saw no new value creation by going ahead with the move. As for competition for Ethio Telecom, we also reported in November that the Ethiopian government had cancelled the process of issuing a third telecoms licence due to lack of interest. Some reports have suggested that potential bidders have been put off by security problems, legislative changes and concern about the government's commitment to opening up the tightly controlled economy. Thus Safaricom Ethiopia is the only competition for Ethio Telecom at the moment, and, for now, it looks as though the battle for subscriber numbers (the population of about 120 million is by no means all signed up) will continue to be waged by only two operators. Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], February 21 (ANI): Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupendra Yadav on Wednesday said that he will visit the families of victims of recent attacks by wild elephants in Kerala's Wayanad district. "I'm going to Wayanad. We came to know that there is an animal-human conflict, especially in Wayanad and the border of Bandipur and Wayanad," Minister Yadav said while speaking to reporters outside Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi As Lord Krishna Poster: Congress Puts Up Pictures Depicting Party MP As Lord Krishna in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur Ahead of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (Watch Video). "The situation is very grave. I called senior scientists from WII, and ministry and state officials. I will go and meet the victims," he added. On providing compensation to the victims, Yadav said, "We have been releasing funds from the central ministry. We would be sympathetic towards animals and also use the technology vigilantly. We will make sure that the compensation provided by the central government reaches the victims." Also Read | Rajasthan Shocker: Class 9 Student Kills Self After Father Scolds Her for Studies and Snatches Her Mobile Phone in Ajmer. Earlier this week, Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi abruptly halted his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Varanasi, and left for his constituency, prompted by public protest over the deaths of residents in wild elephant attacks. He visited the homes of the families and interacted with them. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan also visited the families of the victims. During his visit, a memorandum signed by the residents and demanding protection from wild animal attacks was handed over to him. The governor has assured possible action on the same. He assured residents of Wayanad that he will take up the issue regarding frequent wild elephant attacks in the region with the state and central governments. According to Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran, the incidents of attacks happened when the elephant ventured into a residential area near Mananthavady. After the incident, the Kerala government announced Rs 10 lakh in compensation and also assured a job to one of the family members of the deceased. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed officials to hold a high-level meeting to discuss the issues related to wildlife attacks in Wayanad. The situation remains tense in Wayanad as authorities grapple with the increasing frequency of wildlife-related incidents. On February 19, two persons were arrested in Pulpally following incidents of violence after three back-to-back deaths caused by wild elephant attacks. (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 21 (PTI) Technology consulting and digital solutions company LTIMindtree on Wednesday said it has signed an initial pact with Greek insurance company Eurolife FFH to establish a Gen Al and Digital Hub in Athens and dedicated facilities in Poland, Europe and India. LTIMindtree and Eurolife FFH signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to this effect. Also Read | NHAI Removes Paytm Payments Bank From List of Authorised Banks for FASTag Services; Know How to Deactivate and Open New FASTag Account. The MoU was signed by Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree, Alexandros Sarrigeorgiou, Chairman and CEO, Eurolife FFH Insurance Group, and Sanjay Tugnait, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fairfax Digital Services, in the presence of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister of Greece, in Delhi. The statement said that Eurolife FFH will set up Generative Al and Digital Hub in Athens to develop solutions for insurance businesses in Greece and LTIMindtree will provide deep domain expertise and support from its dedicated facilities in Poland and Mumbai. Also Read | KCET Exam 2024: Registration for Karnataka Common Entrance Test Examination Ends on February 20, Apply Online at kea.kar.nic.in. "This announcement aligns with the government of India's newly introduced Anusandhan scheme, aimed at catalyzing innovation and research within the technology and startup ecosystem," the company said in a statement. "By merging LTIMindtree's innovation capabilities with Eurolife FFH's domain expertise, we are staging a platform for accelerated adoption of new technologies to address the industry's most pressing challenges, while establishing new benchmarks in both domestic and international markets," Sudhir Chaturvedi, President and Executive Board Member, LTIMindtree said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chandigarh, Feb 21 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Wednesday said there have been more recruitment to government jobs in the past nine years under the BJP as compared to previous government's tenure, and added that selections have been transparent and based on merit. Results for approximately 29,000 posts will be declared within the next eight days, Khattar said in the state assembly during the motion of thanks to the Haryana Governor's address. Also Read | NHAI Removes Paytm Payments Bank From List of Authorised Banks for FASTag Services; Know How to Deactivate and Open New FASTag Account. During his address, Khattar took on Congress leader Raghuvir Singh Kadian who had alleged wrongdoings in government recruitment. Asking Kadian to provide proof of his allegations, the chief minister told the Congress leader that if he failed to do so then he would move a privilege motion against him. Also Read | KCET Exam 2024: Registration for Karnataka Common Entrance Test Examination Ends on February 20, Apply Online at kea.kar.nic.in. Khattar said that the government has established Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam (HKRN) to protect the people employed on temporary jobs through contractors. "This initiative aims to allocate outsourced jobs to the youth while ensuring additional benefits such as EPF (employees provident fund) and ESI (employees state insurance). Moreover, approximately 1,08,000 employees currently outsourced have been transitioned to the HKRN. The selection process for youth within the Nigam adheres to transparent principles," he said. Refuting the Opposition claims that Haryana has the highest unemployment rate in the country, Khattar said they keep changing their figures. He pointed out that the Opposition often cites data from CMIE (Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy), which initially showed 2.6 per cent unemployment in Haryana in December 2016 but later surged to 37 percent. In October-December 2023, CMIE recorded 8.6 per cent unemployment in the state, he said. Khattar underscored the government's initiative of issuing 'Parivar Pehchan Patra' or family identity cards, where individuals had self-declared their employment status. According to this data, the unemployment rate ranges between 7.5 to 8 per cent, he said. Khattar said over the past nine and a half years, employment opportunities have been provided to more than 30 lakh people in the private sector. The state has witnessed a consistent rise in investment, leading to the expansion of industries and subsequently, increased job opportunities for the youth. Notably, Haryana holds the top position in per capita GST collection among major states, he added. On the power sector, he said the state now boasts surplus electricity, and there has been no increase in electricity tariffs over the past nine and a half years. "Moreover, uninterrupted electricity supply is now available in 5,898 villages across the state," he said. The Haryana government is also establishing a 800 megawatt thermal power plant in Yamunanagar, with the tendering process already underway, the chief minister added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Tokyo, Feb 21 (AP) The head of a renewable energy subsidiary of Japan's top refiner, Eneos Holdings, has been fired for sexual harassment, the companies announced Wednesday, as awareness of the #MeToo movement grows in the country. Japan Renewable Energy Corp. said in a statement it dismissed chairperson Shigeru Yasu after an internal investigation confirmed sexual harassment at a social gathering in December. The company launched the probe after a whistleblower reported the case. Also Read | US: Man Accused of Killing His Five-Year-Old Daughter Told Friend He Hated Her to His Core as She Reminded Him of His Ex-Wife in New Hampshire. JRE offered a deep apology to the victim and its stakeholders, saying such an act is "not acceptable. Yasu is the third executive with the Eneos group to be fired over sexual harassment in two years. Late last year, Eneos Holdings' then-president Takeshi Saito was dismissed for getting drunk and hugging a woman. In 2022, Eneos chairperson Tsutomu Sugimori resigned after sexually harassing a woman serving customers at a restaurant. Also Read | Another Critic on Vladimir Putins Hit List? Kremlin Source Urges Watch Health of Jailed Dissident. The new statement said the company has repeatedly reminded employees of "the importance of the respect of human rights and ensuring compliance through company training and other means, but it will review the content of education programs and study more effective measures. Change is coming slowly in Japan, which consistently ranks near the bottom in international gender equality surveys and where sexual misconduct complaints are often disregarded. Victims tend to face criticism for speaking up. Last month, former prime minister and ruling party kingmaker Taro Aso was criticized over what were considered insulting and sexist comments about the foreign minister's appearance and age. The 83-old Aso called Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa an obasan, a term usually used to make fun of middle-aged or older women. Kamikawa brushed off the comment, saying she appreciates any comment and that she only focuses on her duty as Japan's top diplomat. Her subdued reaction prompted some experts to lament that in Japan, even women in top jobs are still expected to not speak up. Aso later apologised and retracted the comment. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, Feb 21 (PTI) Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has figured in the list of 50 most powerful Chicagoans in the windy city's influential Chicago magazine. Ranked at 24th, Krishnamoorthi is the highest-ranked individual of South Asian descent. The list is topped by Illinois Governor J B Pritzker followed by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Also Read | Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, February 21, 2024. Placing him at 24th rank, Chicago Magazine describes him as the most powerful South Asian in the Greater Chicago Area. The magazine also says that he is planning to run for the US Senate in 2026. Krishnamoorthi, 50, who represents the northwest suburbs and used his former perch as chairman of a House Oversight subcommittee to investigate everything from the Washington Commanders to the baby formula shortage, has USD 14.4 million in his campaign coffers ?more than three times as much as any other congressional representative from Illinois, and the third-highest total in the entire Congress, it said. Also Read | Imran Khan Labels Pakistan Elections 2024 As Mother of All Rigging. Raja is a huge player across the country, says a political consultant. In 2022, Krishnamoorthi donated USD 460,000 to Democratic candidates and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, but he is said to be stockpiling his campaign cash to run for the Senate in 2026 if Dick Durbin retires, the magazine reported. (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 21: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Delhi on Wednesday. Jaishankar stated that he valued Mitsotakis' commitment to enhancing ties between India and Greece. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Delighted to call on Prime Minister @kmitsotakis of Greece today. Valued his commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. Look forward to the strengthening of our strategic partnership." Very Steady and Very Strong: EAM S Jaishankar on India-Russia Relationship. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is on a state visit to India, arrived in the national capital on Tuesday. Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi welcomed the Greek PM at the airport. Notably, Mitsotakis is the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker at the Raisina Dialogue 2024, which is scheduled to take place from February 21-23. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson stated, "Warm welcome to PM @kmitsotakis of the Hellenic Republic as he arrives in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India. Received by MoS @M_Lekhiat the airport. PM Mitsotakis is the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker at #RaisinaDialogue2024." World Does Not Give Things Easily, You Have To Take Them, Says EAM S Jaishankar on Indias Permanent UNSC Membership (Watch Video). Mitsotakis is accompanied by senior officials and a high-powered business delegation. Earlier, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis arrived in New Delhi to attend the Raisina Dialogue. He met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday, and the two leaders discussed the strengthening of India-Greece and India-Europe cooperation. During his visit to India, he will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Greek counterpart, Mitsotakis will hold bilateral discussions. PM Modi will also host a lunch banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. Notably, this is the first bilateral Head of State or Head of Government level visit from Greece to India after 15 years, the last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008. PM Modi had visited Athens on 25 August 2023. In a press release, Ministry of External Affairs stated, "Prime Minister Mitsotakis's visit is expected to further strengthen and deepen the strategic partnership between India and Greece." Notably, India-Greece relations have been elevated to 'Strategic Partnership' during PM Modi's visit to Greece in August 2023. Mitsotakis will also visit Mumbai before returning to Athens. Las Vegas (US), Feb 21 (AP) A former FBI informant charged with making up a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden, his son Hunter and a Ukrainian energy company had contacts with officials affiliated with Russian intelligence, prosecutors said in a court paper Tuesday. Prosecutors revealed the alleged contact as they urged a judge to keep Alexander Smirnov behind bars while he awaits trial. He's charged with falsely reporting to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. The claim has been central to the Republican impeachment inquiry in Congress. Also Read | Imran Khan Labels Pakistan Elections 2024 As Mother of All Rigging. Smirnov is due in court later Tuesday in Las Vegas. He has been in custody at a facility in rural Pahrump, about an hour drive west of Las Vegas, since his arrest last week at the airport while returning from overseas. Defense attorneys David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld said in a statement ahead of the hearing that they were asking for Smirnov's release while he awaits trial so he can effectively fight the power of the government. Also Read | Uzbekistan: Three Indian Workers Dead, 30 Injured in Roof Collapse Incident in Almalyk. Prosecutors said that during an interview before his arrest last week, Smirnov admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden. They said Smirnov's contacts with Russian officials were recent and extensive, and said Smirnov had planned to meet with one official during an upcoming overseas trip. They said Smirnov has had numerous contacts with a person he described as the son of a former high-ranking government official and someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service. They said there is a serious risk that Smirnov could flee overseas to avoid facing trial. The White House didn't immediately comment on the claims in Tuesday's court filing. Prosecutors say Smirnov, who holds dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship, falsely reported to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. Smirnov in fact had only routine business dealings with the company starting in 2017 and made the bribery allegations after he expressed bias against Joe Biden while he was a presidential candidate, prosecutors said in court documents. He is charged with making a false statement and creating a false and fictitious record. The charges were filed in Los Angeles, where he lived for 16 years before relocating to Las Vegas two years ago. Smirnov's claims have been central to the Republican effort in Congress to investigate the president and his family, and helped spark what is now a House impeachment inquiry into Biden. Democrats called for an end to the probe after the indictment came down last week, while Republicans distanced the inquiry from Smirnov's claims and said they would continue to follow the facts. Hunter Biden is expected to give a deposition next week. The Burisma allegations became a flashpoint in Congress as Republicans pursuing investigations of President Biden and his family demanded the FBI release the unredacted form documenting the allegations. They acknowledged they couldn't confirm if the allegations were true. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Helsinki [Finland], February 21 (ANI): Finland Minister for Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen will arrive in New Delhi on Wednesday for a two-day visit to India and will participate in the Raisina Dialogue 2024, an official statement said. During her visit, she will also meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at a working lunch together with the Nordic and Baltic ministers. Also Read | French Navy Shoots Down Two Drones From Yemen Over Red Sea. They will discuss the current state of relations between the countries, opportunities for future cooperation, and topical international issues, Finland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. During the Raisina Dialogue, Minister Valtonen will also participate in a high-level panel discussion on Arctic cooperation and in a debate on security policy. Also Read | Indian Man Killed in UK: Restaurant Manager Hit by Vehicle While Cycling Home From Work; Suspect Due for Court Appearance. The ministers attending the conference will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "India is continuously consolidating its position internationally. It is clear that India will play a key role in solving many global challenges, for example in defending the rules-based international system and combating climate change. The joint presence of the Nordic and Baltic countries in this year's Raisina Dialogue strengthens the messages important to Finland in one of the world's most important growth centres," Minister Valtonen said on her visit to India. According to the ministry, this year, Finland and India are celebrating the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. The aim of the visit is to strengthen bilateral relations, highlight foreign and security policy issues important to Finland, and to contribute to the international foreign and security policy debate during the Raisina Dialogue. The Raisina Dialogue, annually hosted by the Indian Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, brings together heads of state, ministers, businesses, the media, and academia to discuss the state of the world and explore opportunities for cooperation. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], February 21 (ANI): Foreign Ministers of multiple countries are arriving in New Delhi to attend the Raisina Dialogue 2024 set to be held from February 21-24. The Foreign Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Finland, and Liechtenstein arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday to take part in the Dialogue which will begin today. Also Read | French Navy Shoots Down Two Drones From Yemen Over Red Sea. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1760137334610333770?s=20 Taking to X, a Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson posted about their arrival and said, "#RaisinaDialogue2024! Warm welcome to FM @DominiqueHasler of Liechtenstein, FM @DinoKonakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina and FM @elinavaltonen of Finland." Also Read | Indian Man Killed in UK: Restaurant Manager Hit by Vehicle While Cycling Home From Work; Suspect Due for Court Appearance. Moreover, the Foreign Minister of Hungary, Peter Szijjarto also arrived in New Delhi to participate in the CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1760135942512562270?s=20 "Warm welcome to FM Peter Szijjarto of Hungary as he arrives in New Delhi to participate in CII-India Europe Business and Sustainability Conclave," MEA spokesperson posted on X. Earlier, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis arrived in New Delhi to attend the Raisina Dialogue. Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. The ninth edition of Raisina Dialogue is set to be held in Delhi from February 21-23. It is being organised by Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will be the chief guest and keynote speaker at the 9th Raisina Dialogue in Delhi. Ministers, National Security Advisors, senior officials and representatives of industry, technology, finance and other sectors from more than 100 nations will participate in the Raisina Dialogue. According to a video posted by Randhir Jaiswal on X, the thematic pillars of Raisina Dialogue are - "Tech Frontiers: Regulations and Realities, Peace with the Planet: Invest and Innovate, War and Peace: Armouries and Asymmetries, Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions and Inclusion, The Post-2030 Agenda: People and Progress." In a post on X, Randhir Jaiswal stated, "RaisinaDialogue2024 - 's premier conference on geopolitics & geoeconomics is back with its 9th edition this year. Feb 21-23, 2024 Theme - Chaturanga: Conflict / Contest | Cooperate | Create Know more about the conference." (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 21: Congress MP and former UN diplomat Shashi Tharoor has been conferred with the highest French civilian honour, 'Chevalier de la Legion d'honneur' for being a 'friend' of France and working for deepening Indo-French ties. Tharoor was conferred with honour by Chairman of the French Senate Gerard Larcher, at an event in French Residence. Shashi Tharoor Conferred France's Highest Civilian Honour 'Chevalier de la Legion D'honneur'. "The highest French civilian award comes in recognition of Tharoor's tireless efforts to deepen Indo-French ties, commitment to international peace and cooperation, and as a long-standing friend of France," the French Embassy in India said in a statement. The statement appreciated the 'remarkable personality' of Thiruvananthapuram MP for his range of talents. Parliament Winter Session 2023: Shashi Tharoor Slams Governments Post Office Bill Says, Far More Detrimental to Fundamental Rights Than Colonial-Era Law. "Be it as a diplomat at the United Nations, where he worked to respond to some of the world's toughest crises, and served as Under-Secretary-General, as a renowned writer who has authored works imbued with the spirit of a contemporary Indian odyssey, or as a statesman in India," the statement added. Tharoor has also held the portfolios of Minister of State for External Affairs, and Human Resource Development. He has also served on key parliamentary standing committees, including External Affairs, and Communications and Information Technology. He is the author of numerous books of non-fiction and fiction, some of which have been translated into French, the Embassy stated. The diplomat-turned-politician served in many positions at the United Nations. He was also appointed Director of Communications and Special Projects and Executive Assistant to Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Conferring the honour on Tharoor, Chairman of the French Senate Gerard Larcher called him a "friend of France", and a 'Francophone' with a keen understanding of the country and its culture. "Through his outstanding career as a diplomat, author and politician, Shashi Tharoor has embraced the world with a thirst for knowledge and an intelligence that has led him to live several lifetimes in one, and all of them in service to India and a better world. Dr Tharoor is also a true friend of France, a Francophone with a keen understanding of France and its culture. Through this award which I have the privilege to confer, the French Republic recognizes your accomplishments, your friendship, your love of France, your commitment to a fairer world," he said. 'An Era of Darkness', 'Pax Indica' and 'The Great Indian Novel' are some of the most popular names among the plethora of books written by Tharoor. The three-time Congress MP said that he is 'immensely honoured' upon the conferral and said that this award is an acknowledgement of the deepening Franco-Indian relations. "I am immensely honoured to accept the Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur. As someone who admires France, its people, their refinement, their language, and their culture, especially their literature and cinema, I am deeply humbled to be conferred your country's highest civilian honour. To my mind, the conferral of this award to an Indian is an acknowledgment of the deepening of Franco-Indian relations, and the continuity of the warmth that has been a feature of this relationship for a very long time," Tharoor said. The former diplomat said that he is looking forward to continuing his efforts to further nurture the Indo-France friendship. "This honour, in a sense, is not just a celebration of individual achievement but also reflects the collective efforts of both our countries in fostering cultural exchange and diplomatic ties, a relationship forged through the pillars of mutual respect, admiration, and collaboration that have allowed this unique association to flourish over the years. I look forward to continuing my own efforts towards nurturing this friendship and promoting further cooperation between India and France, for the betterment of our shared global community and to safeguard the common values that underpin our basic humanity," he added. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) The International Finance Corporation (IFC) signed a cooperation agreement with Vodacom to bolster its M-Pesa mobile money platform in Mozambique, a move to boost financial inclusion in the country. In a statement, the IFC, a World Bank Group subsidiary, said it will support M-Pesa in several key areas such as revamping its agent network and conducting nationwide training for sales teams and agents. The IDC will also assist in reviewing M-Pesas merchant acquisition and management strategy in order to expand it, and also support other M-Pesa activities across different regions. Vodacom and the IDC will launched and pilot new projects to expand mobile money services in rural areas with a specific focus on increasing financial inclusion for smallholder farmers, such farms account for 93% of Mozambiques total agricultural production. Around 40% of adults in the country have a mobile money account, well below the regional average of 64%, noted the IFC. The financial institution highlgihted the M-Pesa platform for its affordability and features such as the ability to send and receive money, top-up airtime, make bill payments, receive salaries, and gain short-term loans. The number of active registered M-Pesa users more than tripled from 1.9 million to 6 million between 2018 and 2022, after an initial project between the IFC and Vodacom. Vodacom launched M-Pesa in Mozambique in 2013 and has paid around MZN9 billion (US$142 million) in commission to agents in the last five years. Sergio Gomes, Director of Vodacom M-PESA Mozambique said: "The new phase of MPESA will focus on expanding our value proposition and use cases to limit the use of cash in the economy. One important vertical where we want to intervene is in agriculture where payments are dominated by cash. We believe that through this partnership with IFC, we can have an impact on farmers by digitising their value chains beginning with payments received for their produce and moving out to developing more sophisticated products like insurance". Streaks of Light Seen in California. (Photo Credits: Video Grab) Tel Aviv [Israel], February 21 (ANI/TPS): Since the start of the war in Gaza, approximately 3,200 wanted terrorists and people suspected of aiding terror have been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Jordan Valley region by Israeli security forces. Of them, more than 1,350 are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas. Most recently, overnight IDF (Israel Defense Forces) units, the Shin Bet (Israel's anti-terror General Security Service) and Border Police arrested 40 wanted terrorists in those areas. Also Read | US: Cop Found Dead at Bottom of River Along With Suspect a Day After Making First Ever Arrest of His Career in Tennessee. In a counter-terrorism operation in Jenin, fighters from the IDF's special forces Duvdavan and Haruv units, together with Border Police, arrested 14, killed three terrorists and injured the others. During the operation, the fighters located weapons and uncovered explosives that were planted under roads that were intended to harm Israeli forces. Also, during the operation an IDF aircraft attacked terrorists who shot at the forces, hits were detected. Also Read | Lion Attack in Nigeria: Zookeeper Mauled to Death by Big Cat He Had Raised Since Birth. In Qabalan, near Nablus, forces arrested three wanted men. In Fatsa'el they arrested three more wanted men. In Qibya they arrested four wanted men and in Rantis near Ramallah they confiscated terrorist funds. In Hebron, five wanted persons the IDF said were active in the student cell of Hamas were arrested. Israeli forces also confiscated over 10,000 Shekels ($2,800) in terrorist funds. (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) Islamabad [Pakistan], February 21 (ANI): Over 23000 Pakistani nationals have been jailed in the foreign prisons including 15,587 convicts, the Pakistan's Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights was informed on Tuesday, The Express Tribune reported. According to the report, Pakistan foreign ministry presented data of Pakistani prisoners abroad during a meeting chaired by Waleel Iqbal. Also Read | Kyriakos Mitsotakis India Visit: Greek PM Meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Receives Guard of Honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan (Watch Videos). According to the data, 23,456 Pakistani citizens were imprisoned in foreign countries, including 15,587 convicts and 7,869 under-trial prisoners. The highest number of those Pakistani prisoners was in Saudi Arabia, where 12,156 were languishing in different jails. This is followed by 5,292 prisoners at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) jails. The data further showed that currently 706 Pakistanis were held in Indian jails. Also Read | Kyriakos Mitsotakis India Visit: EAM S Jaishankar, Greek PM Hold Bilateral Talks in Delhi. The ministry said that 338 Pakistanis were held in Qatar, 519 in Iraq, 450 in Bahrain, 59 in Kuwait, 308 in Turkey, 255 in Malaysia, 88 in Afghanistan, 100 in Iran and 400 in China, The Express Tribune reported. In the Europe, 811 Pakistani citizens were imprisoned in Greece, 330 in Great Britain, 330 in Italy, besides 44 in the United States. The committee also discussed the Prisoner Transfer Agreement. The Express Tribune reported that officials from the foreign ministry and the interior ministry said that Pakistan had prisoner exchange agreement with 11 countries, including Azerbaijan, China, Iran, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE and the United Kingdom. The committee directed the foreign ministry to make a uniform consular protection policy within 90 days. It also directed the ministry to release the details of the Prisoner Transfer Agreement with various countries on its website. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, DC [US], February 21 (ANI): In a historic and unified effort, 61 organisations across the global East Turkistani and Uyghur diaspora have come together to address the United States Congress with an urgent plea to recognize their homeland, East Turkistan, where their peoples are suffering an ongoing genocidal occupation under China, East Turkistan National Movement said in a press release. Spearheaded by the East Turkistan Government in Exile (ETGE), a Washington, DC-based parliamentary government in exile, this coalition represents Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other native peoples of East Turkistan. Also Read | Imran Khan Labels Pakistan Elections 2024 As Mother of All Rigging. They applaud the passage with broad bipartisan support of the Uyghur Policy Act through the House of Representatives, and urge the Senate to follow suit. Such actions demonstrate the continued leadership of the United States in supporting the peoples of East Turkistan, and they call on Congressional leaders to build on that leadership with sustained and increasing actions, the release also said. Just as the United States pioneered support for the people of Tibet, just as the United States stands firm with the people of Taiwan, they ask the United States to stand with the peoples of East Turkistan and resist the People's Republic of China and the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) nationalism, expansionism, and human rights atrocities. Also Read | Uzbekistan: Three Indian Workers Dead, 30 Injured in Roof Collapse Incident in Almalyk. They are calling on the US to recognise their homeland, East Turkistan, as an occupied country, highlighting the significant historical context that on October 12, 1949, the PRC's People's Liberation Army invaded East Turkistan and overthrew the independent East Turkistan Republic on December 22, 1949. In October 1955, the People's Republic of China designated much of East Turkistan as the "Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region." "Xinjiang" means "the colony" or "new territory" in the Mandarin language. The open letter to Congress outlines the grave situation in East Turkistan under the People's Republic of China's occupation, highlighting ongoing genocide, crimes against humanity, and the systematic attempt to erase the identity and existence of the East Turkistani people. The letter acknowledges the US Congress's support thus far but stresses that more decisive action is needed to address the root cause of these atrocities: the colonization and occupation of East Turkistan by China. The United Nations' Human Rights Council's recent Universal Periodic Review of China demonstrated the divide between countries willing to call out human rights atrocities and countries coerced into complicity with those atrocities. The gravest of these atrocities occur daily in East Turkistan, and throughout China and Central Asia with the forced displacement and genocide of the native peoples of East Turkistan. The ETGE has documented these atrocities in four separate filings with the International Criminal Court, it added. Mamtimin Ala, President of the ETGE, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "The recognition of East Turkistan as an occupied country by the U.S. Congress would be a significant step towards restoring the rights and freedoms of our people. It is not just a matter of political recognition but a moral imperative to stand against ongoing genocide at the hands of the Chinese Communist Party led Chinese state and affirm the right to external self-determination for the oppressed peoples of East Turkistan." Salih Hudayar, Foreign Minister of the ETGE, added, "The United States has always been a beacon of freedom and justice on the global stage. By recognizing East Turkistan's status as an occupied nation and upgrading legislative actions, the US can lead the international community in a meaningful stand against China's relentless campaign of erasure and oppression." This collective call to action underscores the critical need for the U.S. and the international community to confront the reality of China's colonization, genocide, and occupation of East Turkistan. The signatories express their readiness to provide further information and assistance to advance the cause of justice, human rights, and dignity for East Turkistan. The East Turkistan Government in Exile urges the US Congress to heed this call and take a stand for freedom, justice, and the right to external self-determination for the people of East Turkistan. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mogadishu, Feb 21 (AP) Somalia announced on Wednesday a defence deal with Turkey that includes support for the Horn of Africa nation's sea assets and appears aimed at deterring Ethiopia's efforts to secure access to the sea by way of the breakaway region of Somaliland. Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland on January 1. The document has rattled Somalia, which said it's prepared to go to war over it because it considers Somaliland part of its territory. Somaliland says Ethiopia agreed to recognise its independence in return for a naval port. Also Read | US: Man Accused of Killing His Five-Year-Old Daughter Told Friend He Hated Her to His Core as She Reminded Him of His Ex-Wife in New Hampshire. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre described the defence and economic deal with Turkey as a historic day for the country, after the council of ministers approved it. Somalia will have a true ally, a friend, and a brother in the international arena, he said. Also Read | Another Critic on Vladimir Putins Hit List? Kremlin Source Urges Watch Health of Jailed Dissident. Details of that agreement have not been made public, but Somalia sees such a deal as an act of aggression, even though Somaliland has enjoyed de facto independence for three decades. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told reporters on Saturday that senior officers from Ethiopia's military were in Somaliland preparing the ground for the territory's annexation. Ethiopia has not addressed the allegations but its Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has downplayed fear of conflict, telling lawmakers earlier this month that he had no intention of going to war with Somalia. With a population of more than 120 million, Ethiopia is the most populous landlocked country in the world. Turkey is a key player in Somalia, one of several Gulf Arab states jockeying for influence in a country that lies on the shores of the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden a pathway to the Red Sea. Under the deal announced Wednesday, Turkey will provide training and equipment to the Somali navy so it can better safeguard its territorial waters from threats such as terrorism, piracy, and foreign interference. The deal, first signed by the two countries' defence ministers on February 8, will be in force for a decade, according to Somali authorities. For Somalia, it offers crucial support for security and development initiatives, while for Turkey, it represents an opportunity to expand its influence and deepen its engagement in Africa, said Mohamed H. Gaas, an analyst who heads the think tank Raad Peace Research Institute in Mogadishu, the Somali capital. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, DC [US], February 21 (ANI): Amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea, the US Central Command forces located and destroyed a surface-to-air missile launcher in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen at approximately 5 pm on February 19, the US Central Command said. It said that one additional anti-ship ballistic missile was launched at 6:40 pm. However, it did not affect any commercial or coalition ships. In a statement shared on X, US Central Command stated, "Feb. 19 and early morning Feb 20 Red Sea Update. Two anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBM) were launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen toward M/V Sea Champion, a Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned grain carrier in the Gulf of Aden. Minor damage and no injuries were reported. The ship continued toward its scheduled destination to deliver grain to Aden, Yemen." Also Read | Earthquake of 4.2 Magnitude Hits Afghanistan; Second Within 24 Hours: Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, February 21, 2024. "A surface to air missile launcher was located and destroyed by U.S. CENTCOM forces in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen at approximately 5 p.m. One additional anti-ship ballistic missile was launched at 6:40 p.m. but did not impact any commercial or coalition ships," it added. According to US Central Command, a one-way attack (OWA) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) struck the M/V Navis Fortuna, a Marshall Islands-flagged, US-owned, bulk carrier, causing minor damage and no injuries. The ship continued its voyage towards Italy. Also Read | Earthquake in Afghanistan: Quake of Magnitude 4.2 on Richter Scale Jolts Country, Second Within 24 Hours. The US Central Command said that its forces destroyed an OWA UAV in Western Yemen, prepared to launch at ships in the Red Sea. Furthermore, US and coalition aircraft and warships shot down 10 OWA UAVs in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. In addition, USS Laboon (DDG 58) identified one anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) headed in its direction and shot it down. In the statement posted on X, US Central Command stated, "The ship continued its voyage toward Italy. At 8:15 p.m., U.S. CENTCOM forces destroyed a OWA UAV in Western Yemen prepared to launch at ships in the Red Sea. Between 8 p.m. on Feb. 19 and 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 20, U.S. and coalition aircraft and warships shot down 10 OWA UAVs in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden." "Additionally, at 12:30 a.m., Feb. 20, USS Laboon (DDG 58) identified one anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) headed in its direction. USS Laboon subsequently shot down the ASCM. The OWA UAVs, the SAM system, and ASCM destroyed were identified by CENTCOM and determined to presented imminent threats to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. These actions will protect navigational rights and freedoms and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels," it added. On February 17, the United States conducted five strikes in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen on Sunday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. It said it struck three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, one unmanned surface vessel, and one unmanned underwater vessel (UUV) on Saturday. The strikes were carried out between 3 pm and 8 pm (local time). According to the US, the Houthi vessels presented an "imminent threat" to US Navy ships and these actions will protect freedom of navigation in the region.Notably, this is the first reported use of an unmanned underwater vessel by Houthis since the attacks began last October, as per US Central Command. Taking to social media platform X, CENTCOM stated, "Between the hours of 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Sanaa time), Feb. 17, CENTCOM successfully conducted five self-defense strikes against three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, one unmanned underwater vessel (UUV), and one unmanned surface vessel (USV) in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. This is the first observed Houthi employment of a UUV since attacks began in Oct. 23." "CENTCOM identified the anti-ship cruise missiles, unmanned underwater vessel, and the unmanned surface vessel in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels," it added. The strikes have been carried out amid heightened tensions in the region, where Houthi fighters have carried out attacks on commercial and military shipping since November. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, Feb 21 (PTI) US lawmakers and apple growers are celebrating the export of apples to India this year, which is 16 times more than last year after New Delhi decided to drop the 20 per cent retaliatory tariff put in 2019 on American products, including this fruit. This moment was celebrated at a Seattle port on Tuesday. Also Read | Earthquake of 4.2 Magnitude Hits Afghanistan; Second Within 24 Hours: Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, February 21, 2024. Apple growers from Washington State have almost a million boxes of apples this year to India, which is 16 times more than last year. "This is a new day in trade relations between the United States and India," Senator Maria Cantwell told reporters in Seattle on Tuesday. Also Read | Earthquake in Afghanistan: Quake of Magnitude 4.2 on Richter Scale Jolts Country, Second Within 24 Hours. She was joined by Prakash Gupta, the Consul General of the newly opened India Consulate in Seattle, along with apple growers from Central Washington and labour and port officials. "Apples are the pride of the Washington agricultural economy. They are known worldwide. Today is a celebration because, for five years now, we have not seen the volume of apples leaving these docks and travelling to India," said Cantwell, who was flanked by apple growers. In retaliation for the then-Trump Administration's decision to revoke India's trade benefits under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) programme in March 2019, New Delhi imposed several retaliatory tariffs on American products, including Apple. This increase in import tariff on apples by 20 per cent, caused the apple export market from Washington state to India to plunge. Before the tariffs were imposed, Washington growers exported USD 120 million worth of apples to India and at the lowest point, growers exported less than USD 1 million. This had a massive financial impact on apple growers from Washington State. But business is back to normal this harvest season after the retaliatory tariffs were lifted during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US. Washington State Apple Commission said Washington growers have shipped approximately 1,190,000 40 lb. boxes of apples to India this season. So far, total apple sales from Washington to India are estimated to be about USD 19.5 million, and growers are only halfway through the shipping season. By comparison, the 2022-23 season totals were just 73,000 40 lb. boxes shipped and USD 1.3 million in sales. "We are very committed to growing the Washington-India relationship in many fronts, in aviation, in technology, in healthcare, and especially in agriculture, Cantwell said. When Prime Minister Modi addressed the United States Congress in his recent visit he said we're going to increase trade with the United States. And then he said and these are the places and the first state he mentioned was Washington. I always like to point out it's not because we were in alphabetical order. It's because India believes that this new (Consulate) and with this new export cooperation, that it is a very unique relationship. We are going to put in a lot of effort to grow for the future, she said. Welcoming the opening of the new consulate in Seattle, the American Senator said that so many people in India could benefit from American apples. This will help us in Washington. It will help stabilise the growth that we have in the central part of the state. To have this market grow for the future gives our producers the ability to continue to do what they do best, she said. So today is a celebration because for five years now we have not seen this volume of apples leaving these docks and travelling to India. This is a guarantee that they are going to reach their destination and have shelf space. As Todd mentioned, that means we want more shelf space. We want them to be a permanent part of the Indian economy and we want to grow the relationship, Cantwell told reporters. (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 21 (ANI): Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will visit Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday to attend the ongoing multilateral naval exercise, 'MILAN-2024,' said an official statement. During his one-day tour, Dhankhar will be the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony of the International Maritime Seminar- 'MILAN-2024'. Also Read | Lion Attack in Nigeria: Zookeeper Mauled to Death by Big Cat He Had Raised Since Birth. "The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar will visit Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh on February 22, 2024. During his one-day tour, Shri Dhankhar will be the Chief Guest at the inauguration ceremony of the International Maritime Seminar- 'MILAN-2024,' as per an official statement. For Milan 2024, nearly 20 ships from the Indian Navy, including aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, and nearly 50 aircraft including MiG29K, LCA, Tejas and P8I are participating in the exercise. Also Read | Kyriakos Mitsotakis India Visit: Greek PM Meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Receives Guard of Honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan (Watch Videos). The Indian Navy welcomed the naval ships of Russia, Australia, Seychelles, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the US. The many naval ships that arrived in Visakhapatnam included: Marshal Shaposhnikov (BPK 543), a Udaloy Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; Varyag (011), a Slava Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; PS Zoroaster of Seychelles Coast Guard; IRIS Dena, a Moudge Class Frigate of the Iranian Navy; BNS Dhaleshwari, a Castle Class Missile Corvette of Bangladesh Navy and KD Lekir (FSG 26), a Kasturi Class Corvette of the Royal Malaysian Navy. Earlier, HMAS Warramunga, an Anzac-class frigate of the Royal Australian Navy, arrived in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People's Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy had also docked in Visakhapatnam to participate in the MILAN exercise. During the Harbour Phase, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at the Maritime Warfare Centre in Visakhapatnam. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the Indian Navy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief. Taking to X, Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "Harbour Phase highlights at #MILAN2024! As part of the multinational naval exercise, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at #Maritime Warfare Centre, #Visakhapatnam today. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the #IndianNavy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief. Thought-provoking discussions led to robust operational plans, fostering camaraderie and preparedness." During the Harbour Phase, the International City Parade rehearsal at RK Beach in Vishakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the Indian Navy ships and aircraft. In a post on X, the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "International City Parade rehearsal at #RKBeach #Visakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the #IndianNavy ships and aircraft. #AirDemo The display left the audience awestruck with its precision and elan. "The marching contingents of our sister services and foreign partners also lent grandeur to the event As we share some moments of the event here, we welcome you to join us live on # IndianNavy's official You Tube channel and Facebook page for the live streaming of final parade on 22 February 2024!," it added. In the press release, the Indian Navy stated, "During the sea phase from 24 to 27 Feb 2024, participating Navies will conduct advanced Air Defence, Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare drills. Gunnery shoots on aerial and surface targets, manoeuvres and underway replenishment would also be conducted." "MILAN 2024 aims to strengthen regional cooperation and maritime security, foster interoperability and understanding between participating navies and provide a platform for sharing best practices and expertise," it added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) In a dramatic turn of events, a Trident missile misfired and crashed into the ocean, mere yards from the British nuclear submarine that launched it. This marks the second failed launch in succession, following a similar incident in 2016. The mishap occurred while Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was on board HMS Vanguard to witness the test. Despite the setback, the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that an anomaly occurred during the exercise off Florida on January 30. However, they reassured that the nuclear deterrent remains effective. The crew on the nuclear submarine successfully completed their doomsday drill, propelling the Trident 2 missile into the air using compressed gas in the launch tube. Unfortunately, the missiles first stage boosters failed to ignite, causing the 58-ton missile, fitted with dummy warheads, to splash into the ocean and sink. Russias Nuclear Space Weapon to Destroy Satellites by Creating Massive Energy Waves When Detonated: Report. Trident Missile Misfires During Test MORE - UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was on board HMS Vanguard to witness "the test." Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) February 20, 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.) Paris, February 21: The French Navy has shot down two aerial drones from Yemen over the Red Sea where Houthi attacks have targeted international commercial vessels, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces said. "During the night of February 19-20, the French Multi-Mission Frigates detected multiple drone attacks from Yemen in their respective patrol zones in the Gulf of Aden and the southern Red Sea. Two drones were destroyed," said the Ministry on Tuesday in a statement. Yemen's Houthis Launch Missile Attack on Ship As Crew Abandons It in Gulf of Aden. The French Navy's operation contributed to the objective of the operation launched by the European Union, the statement added. On Monday, Brussels announced that it launched a naval mission, codenamed "ASPIDES", meaning shield in Greek, in the Red Sea and the Gulf regions to safeguard its commercial and security interests, Xinhua news agency reported. US Military Conducts New Airstrikes on Yemen's Houthi Rebels in Red Sea, Destroys Four Explosive Drone Boats and Missile Launchers. France has deployed the Alsace, a frigate with air defence capabilities, and the Languedoc, an anti-submarine frigate, in the zone, reported French media. On Saturday, the Houthi military said it would continue launching missile attacks against Israel-linked commercial vessels and Israel-bound ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and would only stop if Israel halts its aggression on the Palestinian enclave of the Gaza Strip. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2024 08:43 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Tragedy has struck a small Texas town after the body of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was found in the Trinity River just five days after she was reported missing. The missing Texas girl was reportedly on her way to school when she suddenly vanished. A man has been taken into custody in connection to her disappearance and police are expected to file charges against him soon. He was taken into custody before Audrii Cunningham's body was found. "My heart aches with this news," said Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons during a press conference. "I express with my deepest sympathies and condolences to everyone who knew, who cared for and loved Audrii. We will continue to process the evidence that has been gathered to ensure justice for Audrii." Audrii Cunningham's body was found in the Trinity River, along the US 59, on Tuesday. She had been missing since Thursday after she reportedly failed to make it to her school bus in the small town of Livingston, Texas, which is located approximately 70 miles northeast of Houston. According to USA Today. Her parents reported her missing after she did not get off the usual school bus on Thursday afternoon. School officials also reported that she did not report to school, nor did the school bus pick her up before classes started, which meant she went missing as she was going to school. Her backpack was eventually found, and this led police to their person of interest, identified as 42-year-old Don Steven McDougal, who was supposed to drop the 11-year-old elementary school student off on the morning she disappeared. READ NEXT: Mexico Army Kills 12 Alleged Cartel Gunmen in Deadly Shootout Near Border With Texas Person of Interest Joined Search Efforts for Missing Texas Girl Audrii McDougal The Polk County Sheriff has been holding McDougal for questioning since Friday after he was arrested over an unrelated aggravated assault case. Before that, however, he was seen joining in the efforts to locate the missing Texas girl. "Some of the witnesses have even said that he was in the community and knocking on doors ... asking have they seen her," Sheriff Lyons told CNN in an interview. "To me, it simply tells me is that he's trying to give the appearances that ... he's not at fault in her disappearance and that (he's) part of the concerned parties who were trying to locate her." On when he will be charged, the sheriff simply stated. "Once we get all that evidence put together (we will determine) what charges will be filed," adding that "We want to make sure that whatever evidence that we collect, and that we place on an affidavit today, is going to be something that is going to hold up in the court later." Police Suspect Person of Interest's Vehicle Was Involved in the Kidnapping of Missing Texas Girl Meanwhile, video of McDougal's arrest has surfaced and it showed him being questioned by a police officer while he was leaning into a dark blue 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, which he owned. According to The US Sun, police now believe that the vehicle was also used in the abduction of Audrii Cunningham and that investigations into the matter are ongoing. More details are expected to come in the future. READ MORE: Joel Osteen Church Shooting: 7-Year Old Child Wounded in Shooting Was Shooter's Son This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Crime scene set up near place Audrii Cunningham last seen | NewsNation Now President Nayib Bukele and his New Ideas party do not just have the presidency, but they now also have a supermajority in El Salvador's Congress after a painstaking and highly contested vote count where the opposition wanted the votes thrown out. The New Ideas Party now has 54 out of 60 seats in the El Salvador Congress, which means that party members would not have any problems in passing legislation as they would basically be unopposed. With them controlling the presidency and with Bukele allies dominating the Supreme Court, they now have all three branches of government. There were numerous reports of irregularities, glitches, and power and internet outages, leading to the country's electoral authority having to hand count the votes, declaring a failure in the voting system. This came after Bukele declared himself the winner of the presidential election, which he won by a landslide due to his popular gang crackdown. Electoral authorities confirmed Bukele's victory on Sunday, as the self-proclaimed "World's Coolest Dictator" won 85% of the vote, with his party gaining the supermajority the very next day, according to Reuters. This means that he now has unprecedented power that would allow him to change the country's constitution and continue to shelve constitutional rights as part of his popular crackdown against gangs such as MS-13 and Barrio 18. Meanwhile, the fractured opposition parties each hold less than three seats in the El Salvador Congress, with the right-wing Nationalist Republican Alliance (ARENA) and National Concertion parties each holding two seats, while Christian Democratic and VAMOS parties each hold just one seat. READ NEXT: El Salvador Authorities Dismantle Migrant Smuggling Ring Electoral Observers Raise Alarms on Nayib Bukele Supermajority After El Salvador Elections Meanwhile, as Bukele and his party are celebrating their big victory, members of the opposition, as well as independent electoral observers, including those from the Organization of American States (OAS) have been raising alarms on alleged irregularities. Opposition members pointed out that ballots were marked with pen instead of the designated crayon, with many of these ballots not being folded. Meanwhile, the OAS continued to raise alarms about the "lack of control" by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal on vote counting, according to the Associated Press, as the decisions on the vote counting were "in the hands of the representatives of the political parties." US Already Congratulated El Salvador President Nayib Bukele on His Electoral Wiin Meanwhile, the United States has already congratulated Nayib Bukele on his win. The US Department of State released a statement congratulating Bukele and talked about El Salvador-US relations. "I congratulate Nayib Bukele on his electoral victory as President of El Salvador" said Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. "The United States commends the work of electoral observers and looks forward to working with President-elect Bukele and Vice President-elect Felix Ulloa following their inauguration in June." "The United States values our strong relationship with the people of El Salvador, forged over 160 years and built on shared values, regional ties, and family connections," he added. "Events in El Salvador have a direct impact on U.S. interests at home and abroad. Only by working together can we achieve our full potential and overcome the greatest obstacles in our hemisphere and globally." READ MORE: El Salvador: Military and Police Surround Town To Root Out MS-13 Gang Members This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: El Salvador re-elects Nayib Bukele as president in a landslide - Guardian News A judge in Haiti has officially charged Martine Moise, the widow of the late President Jovenel Moise, in connection with the assassination of the former leader on July 7, 2021, according to BBC. The murder charges follow a comprehensive two-year investigation, with leaked legal documents suggesting accusations of "complicity and criminal association." Martine Moise, who survived the attack that claimed her husband's life, is among 51 individuals charged, but the document fails to pinpoint those responsible for ordering and financing the assassination. READ NEXT: Haiti Former First Lady Martine Moise Indicted Widow and Haiti Former Prime Minister Accused of Conspiring to Kill President According to a 122-page document from Judge Walther Wesser Voltaire, made public by AyiboPost, Martine Moise allegedly conspired with former Prime Minister Claude Joseph to orchestrate the president's murder, with the intention of positioning herself as his replacement. The assault took place in the couple's Port-au-Prince bedroom, resulting in President Jovenel Moise's death and injuries to the former first lady, per The Guardian. The judge's order mandates the arrest and trial of those implicated. Despite Reuters' request for comments, neither Martine Moise nor Joseph immediately responded. Former Haiti first lady Martine Moise has criticized what she perceives as "unjust arrests" and "political persecution" on social media. Joseph, on the other hand, accused the current Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, of manipulating the Haitian justice system for political gain, referring to it as a "classic coup d'etat." A spokesperson for Henry's office emphasized the judge's independence and stated that he is "free to issue his order in accordance with the law and his conscience." Henry had assumed office shortly before the assassination, pledging to hold elections but later citing challenges such as a devastating earthquake and the rise of heavily armed criminal gangs for indefinite postponement. Defense Firm Claims Innocence; Former Prime Minister Denies Involvement The law firm representing Martine Moise, PBY&A, asserted her innocence, CNN noted. "She has no motivation for this attack, and her inclusion is supposedly based on her imperfect memory of the most traumatic night of her life," the law firm said. The firm condemned her inclusion in the indictment, calling it an "embarrassment" that questions the legitimacy of the current Haitian government. Paul Turner, a partner at PBY&A representing Mrs. Moise, affirmed their commitment to vigorously defend against the murder charges. Former Prime Minister Claude Joseph also denied involvement in the assassination, accusing Prime Minister Ariel Henry of wielding the Haitian justice system as a weapon. Joseph claimed that the government, responsible for the assassination attempt on him and Martine Moise, is now manipulating justice to advance its agenda. The prime minister's office refuted any connection between Henry and the judge's decision, emphasizing the judge's independence. Haiti authorities have arrested 44 individuals in connection with the assassination, including 20 Colombians. Additionally, the US State Department has charged 11 men in connection with the plot. Haiti, grappling with gang-related violence and political turmoil, has seen over 200,000 people displaced in the capital, Port-au-Prince. Protests demanding Prime Minister Ariel Henry's resignation erupted recently, fueled by frustrations over gang violence, poverty, and the delayed organization of general elections. The unfolding legal proceedings against Martine Moise add another layer of complexity to the country's challenges, with lingering questions about who orchestrated and financed former Haiti President Jovenel Moise's tragic assassination. READ MORE: Lula da Silva Compared Gaza War to the Holocaust This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Widow of assassinated Haitian President Jovenel Moise indicted in his killing - From Associated Press Parenting YouTuber Ruby Franke and her associate, Jodi Hildebrandt, found guilty of child abuse charges linked to a distressing incident involving Franke's children, have been sentenced to potential prison terms of up to 30 years each - the most severe penalty available under Utah law. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, received four consecutive prison terms, with each term ranging from one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000, according to CBS News. Similarly, Hildebrandt, associated with the counseling business ConneXions Classroom, faces an identical sentence. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole will determine the actual prison time for both individuals, and Ruby Franke has a 30-day window to appeal the decision. READ NEXT: Parenting YouTuber Ruby Franke, Arrested Over Child Abuse Guilty Pleas Reveal Disturbing Abuse In their plea agreements, Franke and Hildebrandt admitted to causing or permitting serious physical injuries to Franke's children between May and August 2023, per ABC News. Parenting YouTuber, Franke, tearfully addressing the court, acknowledged following a distorted reality for the past four years, isolated from dissenting voices. "For the past four years, I've chosen to follow counsel and guidance that has led me into a dark delusion. My distorted version of reality went largely unchecked as I would isolate myself from anyone who challenged me," Franke said. She claimed Jodi Hildebrandt was not her business partner, but her son's counselor-turned-mentor. Meanwhile, Winward Law, Ruby Franke's legal representation, said that Hildebrandt exploited Franke, leading her into a distorted sense of morality, The Salt Lake Tribune noted. The firm stated that Hildebrandt "systematically isolated" Franke from her family, shaping her beliefs negatively. Hildebrandt's plea agreement echoed similar details of physical torture, denial of food and water, and severe emotional harm inflicted upon Franke's children. Hildebrandt's defense attorney, Douglas Terry, stated she chose to plead guilty to spare Franke's children from testifying, expressing her primary concern for their healing, both physically and emotionally. Disturbing Details Emerge as Franke's Children Found Emaciated Parenting YouTuber Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were apprehended in early September after Franke's 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt's home, seeking help from a neighbor, The Hill reports. The child, with tape on his ankles and wrists and deep lacerations, prompted a 911 call. Franke's 10-year-old daughter was also discovered at Hildebrandt's residence, leading to both children being hospitalized and subsequently taken into state custody. Details emerged that Hildebrandt had physically forced Franke's daughter to jump into a cactus multiple times, and the 12-year-old boy revealed abusive practices involving ropes, cayenne pepper, and honey. Franke's attorney stated she had become a "student of her actions" since her incarceration, acknowledging her distorted reality and expressing remorse. During sentencing, Hildebrandt insisted on her love for the children, expressed hope for their healing, and asserted her decision to plead guilty to shield them from emotional trauma. The judge, however, criticized Jodi Hildebrandt for terrorizing the children and following a philosophy detached from decency standards. The disturbing case highlights the severity of child abuse and the consequences faced by those responsible, shedding light on a painful chapter in the lives of Ruby Franke's children. READ MORE: Danny Masterson Transferred to Minimum Security This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Ruby Franke breaks down in tears as judge orders her to serve up to 60 years for child abuse - From Page Six Donald Trump may be appealing his massive $354.8 million court loss in his civil fraud trial, but should he lose his appeal, New York Attorney General Letitia James says she is ready to seize his properties if he ever fails to pay that massive fine. These comments came during an interview with ABC News' Aaron Katersky. She told him, "If he does not have funds to pay off the judgment, then we will seek judgment enforcement mechanisms in court, and we will ask the judge to seize his assets." Trump has been known for bragging about having a lot of cash on hand, but the infamously stingy former president has also been known to not pay his legal bills, instead using campaign finances from his super PAC to pay them. However, his Super PAC has been bleeding money because of this, with Joe Biden outraising him recently. Should he not pay up, the state of New York could seize his assets. Letitia James has been targeting one particular Trump property, saying, "We are prepared to make sure that the judgment is paid to New Yorkers, and yes, I look at 40 Wall Street each and every day." James and her prosecutors are showing that they are confident of their case when it reaches the court of appeals, with her directly countering Trump's allegation that the case lacked any victims, instead arguing that the case was vital to make sure that financial markets treat New Yorkers fairly. "Financial frauds are not victimless crimes. He engaged in this massive amount of fraud. It wasn't just a simple mistake, a slight oversight, the variations are wildly exaggerated, and the extent of the fraud was staggering," she said. "If average New Yorkers went into a bank and submitted false documents, the government would throw the book at them, and the same should be true for former presidents." READ MORE: Donald Trump Facing Financial Troubles Amid Legal Defeats While Joe Biden Outraised Him MAGA Trucker Who Vowed To Boycott New York Over Donald Trump Fraud Trial Defeat Backs Down The case in New York has led to an outcry from Trump supporters, many of whom were threatening to boycott New York. One of these is a man called "Chicago Ray" who called for a boycott of the state over the Donald Trump fraud trial decision. However, according to Yahoo! News, "Chicago Ray" is now backing down, taking down his call for a boycott on social media, claiming that he had no interest in leading any movement. However, he says that he will still support the indicted former president. Slain Vladimir Putin Critic Was Afraid of a Second Donald Trump Term, Letters Showed Meanwhile, Donald Trump is also getting criticized over his lack of condemnation against Russian leader Vladimir Putin, who is accused of killing his top critic, Alexander Navalny. New letters from the slain Russian opposition leader showed that he was afraid of a second Trump term. A new letter from him before his death showed him telling a friend that he was concerned over Trump's agenda and that it would really help out Vladimir Putin. Trump briefly mentioned Navalny and made it all about himself, saying that like Navalny, he is also being oppressed. However, unlike Navalny, there is plenty of actual evidence against his wrongdoing. READ MORE: US President Ranking: Donald Trump Still Ranked by Historians as Worst US President in History This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: AG James says she'll seize Trump's assets if he can't pay up after civil trial - Eyewitness News ABC7NY A new 173-room hotel proposed at Lehigh Valley International Airport would be built in two phases, officials said. The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission at its meeting Thursday evening is set to consider approval for a comment letter on the proposal to be sent to officials in Hanover Township, Lehigh County. The commissions Comprehensive Planning Committee met Tuesday to recommend full commission approval of the comment letter. Plans call for construction of the hotel in two phases, beginning with 145 rooms spread across 22,356 square feet followed by a second, 4,108-square-foot addition adding 28 rooms for total of 26,464 square feet and 173 rooms. Its proposed on land owned by the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority, adjacent to the 3311 Airport Road airport that the authority owns and operates. Authority officials last year began negotiating a lease for the proposed Courtyard by Marriott with developer HPD LLC, based in Pennsylvanias Montgomery County. A hotel at the airport was outlined as a new, non-aeronautical revenue source during the authoritys 2018-19 master plan update, authority officials had said. The hotel site is about 400 feet north of the airports ground transportation hub that opened in 2017 for car rentals and bus service. The LVPCs comment letter to be sent to Hanover Township Planning Commission Chairman Mark Thomas may be viewed beginning on page 5 via Tuesdays agenda packet available at lvpc.org/lvpc-meetings. The address for the proposed hotel is 3337 Airport Road, according to Hanover Township Manager Melissa Wehr. The project appeared on Tuesday nights township planning commission agenda, with the developer listed as Provident Group-Lehigh Valley Properties LLC. It was tabled to allow time to address comments from the townships engineer, Wehr said. The LVPCs Comprehensive Planning Committee on Tuesday also recommended approval Thursday of comments to Allentown planning officials on a proposed expansion of Seegers Union Building at Muhlenberg College, 2400 Chew St. Plans call for a three-story, 35,150-square-foot expansion with proposed new pedestrian and utility/stormwater infrastructure improvements and additional outdoor seating. The LVPCs full comment letter can be found beginning on page 2 of Tuesdays agenda via the above link. The LVPCs meeting Thursday begins at 7 p.m. and is carried live via Microsoft Teams videoconference. Visit lvpc.org for additional information. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Flames ripped through two century-old cottages in a religious retreat Tuesday afternoon in Salisbury Township, destroying both structures, the townships police chief said. The fire was reported at 1:51 p.m. at E.C. Waldheim Park off the 2400 block of South Hall Street, near the Allentown border. Most of the cottages there are unoccupied during the winter, Salisbury police Chief Donald Sabo Jr. told lehighvalleylive.com. Residents of one of the cottages destroyed was on the property Tuesday, but no one was inside at the time, according to Sabo, who is also a township fire investigator. The second cottage involved was unoccupied this winter, Sabo said. No injuries were reported. The flames spread quickly even as firefighters were being dispatched, according to the police chief. Compounding the difficulty of the call were the very narrow road where the cottages are situated and limited water supply from two hydrants on-site. Eastern Salisbury Fire Department was assisted by the Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Co. and fire crews from Allentown, Emmaus, Lower Saucon Township, South Whitehall Township and Lower Milford Township, according to Sabo. The community that maintains the cottages was planning to clean up the remnants from the fire and get the access road reopened. The cause remained under investigation by township fire officials. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Lawsuits continue to pile up against a Lehigh Valley doctor from parents who say the doctor falsely accused them of abusing their children. Twenty-two families have either sued Dr. Debra Esernio-Jenssen or filed notice of intent to sue her in Philadelphia Common Pleas Court. The Easton Area School Board approved agreements with architectural and engineering firms to explore options for building a new high school. The board hired DHuy Engineering and Alloy 5 Architecture, both of Bethlehem. Each of those firms helped design and build new Palmer and Cheston elementary schools and a new Cottingham Stadium. They also helped renovate Forks, Tracy, March and Paxinosa elementary schools. Each firm will work under a retainer. Alloy 5 employees will be paid hourly with a cap at no more than 5.7% of the cost of construction and land development. DHuy agrees to manage the development process, pursue construction grants, meet regularly with district officials and set a construction schedule. The vote at Tuesdays meeting was unanimous. Alloy 5 made a presentation in April 2023 outlining four options that included renovating the high school, a partial renovation or new construction. The board indicated in January 2024 that it wants to further explore options for new construction. The board could change course at any time if costs escalate. The four options presented in April 2023 ranged from $204 million to $274 million. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to Lehighvalleylive.com. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. A 22-year-old Allentown man is facing attempted homicide charges after shooting into a crowd and injuring four people Tuesday evening on a city street, authorities said. In addition to four counts of felony criminal attempted homicide, Axel Yadiel Suarez-Vidal is charged with four counts of felony aggravated assault and seven counts misdemeanor reckless endangerment. Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan announced the charges Wednesday after Suarez-Vidal surrendered to police earlier that morning. Shortly after 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, Suarez-Vidal allegedly shot into a crowd gathered outside a home in the 1800 block of West Turner Street. The motive remains unclear and authorities continue to investigate. A total of four victims three adult females and one adult male were struck by the gunfire. All went in personal vehicles to area hospitals for treatment before police arrived at the scene, authorities said. Allentown Police Capt. Daniel Gross Jr. told lehighvalleylive.com none of the victims injuries are life-threatening. The incident additionally happened several blocks down from Muhlenberg College. The college, according to WFMZ-69 News, beefed up campus police patrols and enacted a shelter-in-place at the time of the incident. Our investigation has yielded no connection to Muhlenberg College and no threat to the Muhlenberg College Community, Holihan said Wednesday morning. Suarez-Vidal was arraigned Wednesday morning before District Judge David M. Howells Jr., who denied bail in the case. He was then taken to the Lehigh County jail. The Lehigh County Public Defenders Office is yet to assign counsel to Suarez-Vidal. Authorities say at this time, no other suspects are being sought in the incident. The case is being investigated by the Allentown Police Department, including the Criminal Investigation Division, the Identification Division and the Patrol Division, as well as the Lehigh County District Attorneys Office. Tuesdays shooting follows a violent weekend in the city, in which a 33-year-old man was found shot dead Saturday while attending the birthday party of a 1-year-old relative, authorities said. The incident happened shortly after 7:45 p.m. at East Walnut and South Dauphin streets, the Lehigh County District Attorneys Office said. No suspects have been announced in that shooting. Police continue to seek witnesses. District Attorney Gavin Holihan said there is no evidence that the two shootings are connected. Police recently rolled out new gunshot detection technology aimed at tracking gunfire faster than a 911 call throughout the entire city. Those with information about either shooting are asked to call the Allentown Police Departments Criminal Investigations Division at 610-437-7721 or the Allentown Police Department Complaint Desk at 610-437-7753. Four people were injured in a shooting Tuesday evening, Feb. 20, 2024 along West Turner Street in Allentown, city police said. The incident remains under investigation.Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. The head of Irelands independent electoral commission said he is encouraged by how social media companies plan to tackle misinformation and disinformation ahead of the European elections. Art OLeary, chief executive of An Coimisiun Toghchain, told the Joint Oireachtas Committee on European Union Affairs that he is very happy with the level of engagement from major tech companies over its plans to remove damaging material during elections. In June, Ireland and other EU member countries will take to the polls to elect politicians to the European Parliament. Mr OLeary said he has held meetings with Meta, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Google and Technology Ireland about online issues, adding they have a good working relationship. He told committee members that the electoral commission has been given safe channels to social media giants in order to deal with urgent matters. I am encouraged by the level of responsibility they have shown in relation to how theyre going to deal with that (misinformation and disinformation). Theyre very, very conscious that their platforms are a place where quite serious damage can be done to democracy, Mr OLeary said. I have been pleased by the attitude and respect that they have shown to us and to the process as part of that conversation. These are not easy meetings for any of us because we have particular requirements but Im very, very happy with the level of engagement. I asked them what are their plans and arrangements for dealing with mis- and disinformation on the platform in an electoral context. And they have all laid out their procedures, their processes, how they engage and investigate allegations of mis and disinformation. I also asked for a safe, clean passage into the organisations quickly if we need speed to be able to do something. He also said that he raised the issues around algorithms. Interestingly, if there is something that theyre not clear about, if any issue was being investigated for mis- and disinformation, they can reset the algorithms to make sure that the post doesnt appear on peoples timelines or appears so far down as to be unreadable. There are many ways of dealing with this. Sinn Feins Ruairi O Murchu said there is a huge body of work to do to ensure the spread of misinformation and disinformation is contained. He added: Weve all entered into a world where anyone can post whatever has entered their head at 12 oclock at night after a couple of bottles of beer, possibly a couple of bottles of wine. But then you have you have other players that are not so benign, and they can be state-actors and they can be non-state-actors. They can be absolutely disorganised, just that theres a lot of them, so that is a particular problem. Mr OLeary said his biggest concern is around misinformation about the electoral process. Its the (allegations) that the electoral register is rigged, that your vote wont count because all those ballot boxes will be taken away and put in the boot of a car because they all know theyre voting for somebody, you must write on the ballot paper, etc, etc, he added. Thats the bit where we can make a real impact because that tends to be much more black and white. He urged the public to treat each day like it is April Fools Day and question who is passing on the information, how do you know if it is true and whether it is a trusted source. Mr OLeary said that while the body has been given extensive powers in the Electoral Reform Act 2022 in relation to misinformation and disinformation, the powers have not yet been commenced by the Minister for Housing Darragh OBrien. He said that the Electoral Commission currently has no regulatory investigative or sanctioning powers in the area of misinformation and disinformation. What we do have is the obligation to inform citizens about the elections. And one is the electoral process information, Mr OLeary added. We are very conscious of the right to freedom of expression in this country and this is a constitutional right, but were also conscious that we have an obligation that our citizens and the electorate have the right to be informed properly as well. The way that misinformation disinformation is leaked into the environment now is becoming increasingly sophisticated and increasingly complex. We have to be ready to be able to deal with that. So we are building an organisation right now from scratch, which is versatile, which is flexible, which is responsive and aware of developments in the area. There are currently 25 people working in the organisation, across three sections, including electoral operations, electoral integrity, and corporate services. Mr OLeary said their ambition is to double staff numbers by the end of the year. (We) have a huge role in relation to monitoring and correcting and labelling and responding to any myths or disinformation that we see, particularly around electoral process information. So, such and such a polling station has burnt down, if you write your name on a ballot paper you win a prize this kind of stuff is easily corrected. Media literacy is important here to explain to people about trusted sources of information, but we also have a big job to do and we also have the collaboration of a number of stakeholders in this country as well. Following the commissions campaign to boost electoral registration numbers, Mr OLeary said that 100,000 people have registered for the first time, while a further 100,000 people updated their details in the last five months. An independent inquiry into the Omagh bombing will examine alleged security failings that led a High Court judge to conclude the outrage could plausibly have been prevented. The UK Government has outlined its terms of reference for the independent probe, which will be chaired by Lord Turnbull. The dissident republican bomb exploded in the Co Tyrone town on August 15 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the statutory inquiry into the attack last year in response to a court judgment that directed the Government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the Belfast High Court judge directing the state to act. Mr Heaton-Harris outlined the terms of reference by way of a written parliamentary statement on Wednesday. In his 2021 judgment, Mr Justice Horner directly recommended that the UK Government carry out an investigation into alleged security failings in the lead-up to the atrocity. While having no jurisdiction to order the Irish government to act on the matter, the judge urged authorities there to establish their own probe in light of his findings. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic of Ireland. Mr Heaton-Harris has also pressed the Irish government to act. On a visit to Belfast on Wednesday, Irelands deputy premier, Micheal Martin, pledged to co-operate with the UK inquiry but said he did not think it made sense to have two inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the Irish border. The inquiry will be established under the Inquiries Act 2005 with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath. In his statement, Mr Heaton-Harris said: I want to first again express my deepest sympathy for all of those affected by the Omagh bombing in August 1998. It was a cruel atrocity carried out, not just on the people of Omagh, but on all those in Northern Ireland who supported the peace process. Following the announcement of the inquiry in February 2023, and the appointment of Lord Turnbull as chair in June 2023, I have now agreed with Lord Turnbull the terms of reference for the inquiry. These are focused on the four grounds identified by the Northern Ireland High Court as giving rise to plausible arguments that the bombing could have been prevented. With the terms of reference now agreed, the inquiry can press ahead with its work to comply with the judgment of the High Court, demonstrating the UK Governments ongoing commitment to taking proper action on legacy-related matters. The inquiry chairman will now undertake a setting-up exercise to design the inquiry as he sees fit, and he will announce further detail about the inquiry in due course. The inquiry will examine the adequacy of the measures taken by UK state authorities, including the police, security forces and intelligence and security agencies, to disrupt dissident republicans who had been involved in attacks from December 1997 up to and including the Omagh bombing. It will assess whether that approach changed following the Good Friday Agreement of April 1998. It will also probe alleged intelligence-sharing failures between the UK and Irish authorities in the year-and-a-half leading up to the bombing. It will further test an allegation made by former senior police officer Norman Baxter that detectives investigating previous dissident attacks were not given access to full intelligence information on suspects. It will also examine claims around information allegedly passed to the security forces by a state agent known as Kevin Fulton in the months prior to the Omagh attack. The inquiry will also look at intelligence said to have been obtained by the UK Governments Communication Headquarters (GCHQ) from alleged vehicle and telephone monitoring of dissident republicans involved in the planning, preparation and conduct of the Omagh bombing and other earlier attacks. The subsequent analysis and handling of the GCHQ intelligence by the state authorities will also be investigated. The inquiry will also examine the extent and adequacy of steps taken by UK state authorities to track and analyse the mobile telephone usage by those suspected to be involved in dissident republican terror attacks before the Omagh bombing and whether that data may have aided efforts to disrupt the atrocity in Omagh. Inquiry chair Lord Turnbull said he was confident the terms of reference would allow him to conduct a thorough and robust investigation. The first thing to stress is that the inquiry is an entirely independent body, he said. I and my team will decide which are the relevant and important issues to explore and which witnesses will be called. We will do so in a manner which is entirely free of influence from the Government, or any of the United Kingdom authorities and agencies. The inquiry is established under the provisions of the Inquiries Act of 2005 which means that I will have the power to require the production of documents and the attendance of witnesses. I shall make use of those powers to any extent necessary. Lord Turnbull said the voice of the victims would be heard. Whilst I have not yet defined the exact procedure the inquiry will follow, it is my intention to invite families and survivors to commemorative hearings in Omagh at some point this year, so I can hear directly from those most affected by the bombing, he said. I recognise that for some, however, revisiting events of the past would be too traumatic and that they may have no wish to return to such a difficult time in their lives and the lives of their own loved ones. I will fully respect that view, and the inquiry will recognise your privacy if this is your wish. The first phase of the inquiry will involve gathering information and materials. The second phase will be the evidential hearings and Lord Turnbull said he intended for those to be held in public and broadcast live, unless it was necessary in the public interest for reasons of national security that they are held in private. The chairman acknowledged it could take some time before he was in a position to produce a final report and said he would consider whether to issue an interim report ahead of the inquirys conclusion. Mr Heaton-Harris reiterated his call for the Irish government to set up its own inquiry. I urge the Irish Government to now explain what consideration it has given to the setting up of an investigation in Ireland to discharge its obligations under article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, in line with the clear direction of the High Court, he said. However, speaking during his visit to Ulster University in Belfast, Mr Martin questioned the merit of having two separate inquiries. He also denied that his government had not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic, he said in clear reference to the UKs contentious legacy laws. The Gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. Stormonts leaders were also asked about the probe on a visit to Limavady on Wednesday morning. First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. A 34-year-old man was jailed for committing thefts at the Kildare Village Retail Outlet. Hocine Boulanouar, with an address listed as The White House, Castle Street in Roscrea, County Tipperary, but who is currently in custody, was convicted of the offence by Judge Desmond Zaidan. Gardai present in Naas District Court on Thursday, February 15 last, told the judge that Mr Boulanouar, along with another man, had stolen around 1,850.97 worth of clothes from two separate stores in Kildare Village on October 6 last. Gardai alleged that he was accompanied by a separate man, who was not present before the court, and as such, the judge issued a bench warrant against the man. Mr Boulanouar pleaded guilty to the thefts. The court was told that Mr Boulanouar has 12 previous convictions, one of which is for a theft offence. Defending solicitor Joe Coonan told Judge Zaidan that his client is an asylum seeker, who originally hails from Algeria. "He is deeply ashamed of what he has done and only did it out of desperation," Mr Coonan told the judge. Judge Desmond Zaidan imposed the custodial sentence on Mr Boulanoaur. However, Judge Zaidan rejected this plea of mitigation: "If he was caught stealing groceries or food, that may be true, but he targeted shops with (well-known) brand names." "He knew exactly what he was doing," he added. The judge also pointed to the total value of the good stolen, and the man's previous convictions. Referring to the latter point, the judge said: "That is telling me that he is abusing the hospitality given by the Irish people. "As an asylum seeker, there are services in place to help him (if he is struggling financially)." Mr Coonan said that his client was willing to make a charitable donation as a gesture of remorse, but Judge Zaidan rejected this defence. The judge told Mr Coonan that while he noted the man's personal circumstances, he would impose a custodial sentence on his client. Mr Boulanouar was sentenced to serve a total of 11 months in prison. Judge Zaidan set appeal at 400. For further information about services which help to protect and promote the rights of asylum seekers, please visit https://doras.org/ or https://www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie/. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has said that there are no plans at present to use a site in Brownstown to accommodate asylum seekers. A post on Facebook had made the rounds a few days ago claiming that a residential site in Brownstown would be used to house asylum seekers (also known as International Protection Applicants, or IPAs for short). However, when asked about the allegation by the Leinster Leader, a spokesperson for the Department had this to say: The Department can only confirm use of a premises once a contract has been signed, and will, in the first instance, inform local public representatives and statutory agencies through its Community Engagement Team. Suzanne Doyle, who is a local councillor, for the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, also commented on the claim, as well as the site itself, on her official Facebook page. Cllr Doyle, who is a member of Fianna Fail, said: On foot of several queries about the below property in Brownstown, I am sharing information given to me by the owner of the property that was recently purchased for conversion into residential accommodation. These units which include 3,2 & 1 bed units are being let individually on the private market. The units consist of 3 x 1 beds, 2 x 3 beds & 5 x 2 beds. I have further checked with integration Director in Council who confirmed that no property within Brownstown Curragh has been identified to be used for Refugee/Asylum seeker accommodation. Cllr Doyle also said: Recent trends suggest that people outside our communities are planting suspicion and fear with misinformation, something similar happened in relation to Bolands pub in Kildare town and other experiences around country. It would be helpful to find the source of this misinformation; if people could let me know where they got original information about the tenancy of this property, I would appreciate it. It is important that our communities are not manipulated by people who seek to influence opinion through undue fear and prejudice, she concluded. Sensational Kids, a pioneering social enterprise and charity based in Kildare, West Cork, Mayo and Monaghan, is delighted to announce its groundbreaking achievement in securing first place in the medium/large social enterprise category of the Irish Local Development Network Impact Awards. The distinguished award, accompanied by a 10,000 grant, underscores Sensational Kids' unparalleled commitment to creating profound positive changes in the lives of children and families through its transformative therapy services. Following a rigorous application and judging process, Sensational Kids emerged as the national leader in its category, garnering acclaim for its unwavering dedication to measuring and enhancing the outcomes of therapeutic support services for children and adolescents. In particular, Sensational Kids was commended for its comprehensive two-year project aimed at measuring the impact of its therapy interventions, a milestone achievement in the realm of paediatric therapy. Two years ago, Sensational Kids embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to systematically measure the outcomes of the therapies it provides to children. The results of this ambitious endeavour were independently evaluated by a reputable paediatric therapy company in the USA, utilising an evidence-based outcome measurement tool. The findings revealed that Sensational Kids not only facilitated "clinically meaningful change" but consistently exceeded the clinically meaningful change score of 2, documenting numerical evidence of the profound positive changes experienced by children receiving interventions at Sensational Kids. Karen Leigh, CEO & Founder of Sensational Kids, expressed her profound gratitude for the recognition, stating, "This award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, as well as the transformative impact of our therapy services on the lives of children and families. We are immensely proud of the outcomes we have achieved and remain committed to advancing excellence in paediatric therapy." The Irish Local Development Network Impact Award underscores Sensational Kids' relentless pursuit of excellence in delivering impactful interventions that empower children to reach their fullest potential. Sensational Kids extends heartfelt appreciation to the Irish Local Development Network for this esteemed honour and for their steadfast support of our mission to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. Area entrepreneurs whose ideas center on agriculture and ag industry have an opportunity to fertilize their dreams through HudsonAlpha Wiregrasss recently launched Navigate Mentoring program. This initiative is part of HudsonAlphas overarching innovation strategy to build and strengthen agriculture and technology companies in the Wiregrass area. The Navigate Mentoring program is modeled after the Massachusetts Institute for Technologys Venture Mentoring Service (MIT VMS). Navigate was first established in Huntsville in 2019 and now serves southeastern Alabama through HudsonAlpha Wiregrass. Navigate officially launched on Feb. 8, with four entrepreneurs participating in the inaugural cohort. Through Navigate, HudsonAlpha focuses on supporting the growth of agriculture and technology entrepreneurs using a team-based approach. This helps new and established entrepreneurs who want to sharpen their business plans and develop management skills. These entrepreneurs also receive confidential, unbiased advice on business strategy and growth. Navigate operates as an in-person program to best support entrepreneurs. The Navigate team mentoring program will help entrepreneurs learn TOMAtop of mind awareness about what they do best, said Bob Woodall, CEO of Bob Woodall Air Care System, one of the inaugural mentors. As a mentor, I want to help these small businesses focus on their profitable passions. Navigate is supported by HudsonAlpha and involves mentors across the Wiregrass area with expertise in starting and leading a company as well as scaling, finance, marketing, operations, human resources and other critical subject matters for entrepreneurs. Navigate volunteer mentors are experienced executives with decades of management and advisory experience with a common passion for giving back to the Wiregrass community. Aspiring entrepreneurs with ideas centered on agriculture or agricultural technology are encouraged to apply. Participants must be committed to receiving mentorship from a team of local leaders and meeting reporting requirements. To learn more about the Navigate Mentoring Program, visit hudsonalpha.org/innovate/business-biotech. Entrepreneurs wanting to apply to receive mentorship from HudsonAlphas group of mentors should contact Ann Carr, HudsonAlphas Economic Development Associate in the Wiregrass, at 334-796-6792 or acarr@hudsonalpha.org. Former Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr is set to play Athy's Dreamland Ballroom, the venue where his parents first met in the early 1960s, RTE reports. Both of Marr's parents, John Joseph Maher (who is now 81) and Frances Patricia Doyle (75), are from the town and moved to Manchester to start a new life for themselves as a young couple. Marr, who changed his surname, will play the Dreamland Ballroom on June 25, with tickets going on sale this Friday at 10am. The acclaimed guitarist visited Athy town in 2018 to unveil a plaque on Emily Square celebrating his roots. The plaque is part of the Made in Athy project. The told RTE at the time that it was a "beautiful" visit. "It's kind of almost overwhelming seeing these faces that have turned out, and some of them look like me as well which is kind of amazing," Marr said. "I'm meeting some of my cousins and my relatives so, on a personal level, it's beautiful." When asked if he would seek Irish citizenship saying, he said, "If they'll take me, I'm on board. If they'll have me, I'm around!" Playing music since the age of 13, Marr was co-founder and co-songwriter in The Smiths. Marr created the distinctive Smiths jangly guitar sound, a sound which has gone on to influence countless bands such as The Cranberries, The Sundays, The Decemberists and The National. It is Johnny Marr that we have to thank for such classics as This Charming Man, There Is A Light, That Never Goes Out and Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want. Since leaving The Smiths, Johnny Marr has carved out an award-winning career as a collaborator and solo-artist. Marr has played with The Pretenders, Modest Mouse and The Cribs. He formed Electronic with Bernard Sumner of New Order and has also collaborated with Talking Heads, Bryan Ferry and Hans Zimmer. One of his most notable projects in recent years was the creation of a soundtrack for the 25th James Bond Movie No Time To Die. Marrs solo output has gone from strength to strength and his recent performance at the 2023 Electric Picnic can only be described as sublime. Johnny Marr has just released a Spirit Power, a compilation of his best songs from his solo recordings. He has also just published a new book called Marrs Guitars. It contains photographs of each of Marrs guitars and a short essay on each by the man himself. In 2010, Marr was voted the fourth-best guitarist of the last 30 years in a BBC Poll. Mojo have described him as arguably Britains last great guitar stylist and the NME gave him their Godlike Genius award in 2013. Micheal Martin is set to examine the impact of Irish Government investment in Ulster University. The Tanaiste will meet senior university leadership at its new campus in north Belfast, one day after the Irish Government unveiled an 800 million euro-plus (683 million) funding package for projects benefiting Northern Ireland. He will tour the universitys virtual production studio which is used by aspiring creatives in the screen and games industries. Mr Martin will also hear from students and staff about the universitys partnership with the Irish Governments Shared Island Initiative, including capital investment of 44.5 million euro (38 million) in the Derry Magee campus which was announced last year. Ulster University is engaged in a number of projects taking place under the North-South Research Programme. It has carried out numerous cross-border research projects on subjects ranging from the Atlantic Innovation Corridor, to student well-being and medieval history. Mr Martin will also meet members of the East Belfast Mission and the Turas Project at the Skainos Centre, in east Belfast. The groups are both long-standing partners of the Reconciliation Fund and have been awarded grants for work in support of community reconciliation on a number of occasions. Spanish police intervened and met with a west Clare man after being alerted to comments he made online that he had a sexual interest in young girls and was going to try a 10-year old girl while on holiday, a court has heard. In May 2018, Spanish police also seized a mobile phone belonging to family man and college graduate, Liam Kelly, aged 45, of Clonadrum, Mullagh, Co. Clare. A subsequent analysis of the phone detected a small number of child pornography images. Arising from the garda investigation, the father-of-two has now pleaded guilty to possession of three images of child pornography and one video. Ennis Circuit Court heard all of the offences occurred at his west Clare home in May 2018. Sergeant Claire Haugh of Ennis garda station told the court that during interview, Mr Kelly had denied viewing the images that he had received online from a UK national. Sgt Haugh said the images included individual naked females, aged two to three, aged from three to four and aged five. She said a video showed a nine to ten year old girl "removing her underwear in a provocative manner. Sgt Haugh said that Mr Kelly had stated in a 2018 online chat that he was sexually interested in girls aged from eight to 13. An analysis of a laptop seized from the defendant showed that he was "involved in various chat rooms that were indicative of a sexual interest in children. Sgt Haugh said Mr Kelly told gardai that he was on such platforms with a view to outing paedophiles but that gardai rejected this as an analysis of the laptop seized showed Mr Kelly expressing a sexual interest in young children. Counsel for the State, Lorcan Connolly BL, instructed by State Solicitor, Aisling Casey, said that there are references to paedo or ped in the online chats. Judge Francis Comerford described engagement with child pornography as evil and he described Mr Kellys excuse that he was trying to entrap predatory paedophiles as fairly implausible and nonsense. In evidence, Sgt Haugh said that it was South Wales police who initially discovered the online chat in May 2018 between Mr Kelly and another man that resulted in the Spanish police intervention. She said that Mr Kelly told the user that he was going to Spain the following day and, when referring to a 10 year old child, said: I am going to try her. Sgt Haugh said that "in the context of earlier exchanges it was entirely reasonable to assume that Mr Kelly was intent on engaging in sexual activity with this child. The witness added that the South Wales police informed gardai through Interpol and that gardai in turn contacted their Spanish counterparts who met with Mr Kelly at his hotel on May 23, 2018. Judge Comerford commented that "there is no evidence that the child in Spain on holidays was put at risk but talking in those terms is revolting. Sgt Haugh said that the online chat between Mr Kelly and the man from the UK comprised 153 messages discussing sexual activity with young girls. She told the court that while Mr Kelly was in Spain, Detective Garda John Casey of Ennis garda station secured a search warrant in court to search Mr Kellys home at Mullagh. Counsel for the State, Mr Connolly said that an analysis of a laptop at the home didnt yield any child-pornography images "but showed the user involved in various chatrooms that were indicative of a sexual interest in children. Mr Connolly said that in one online chat, there was evidence of 32 users online simultaneously and Mr Kelly had different private chats with people with various handles with a sexual interest in children. Sgt Haugh agreed with Mr Connolly that the private chats Mr Kelly had under his handle (username) were indicative of sharing thoughts and views and encouraging an interest in paedophilia. The witness told the court that Mr Kelly has no previous convictions and is an Applied Physics and Electronics graduate and works for a manufacturing company. Counsel for Mr Kelly, Bernard Madden SC, instructed by solicitor John Casey, described his client as a family man and said there was no evidence of financial gain out of this and no history of violence. Mr Madden said that since the images were discovered six years ago, Mr Kelly has not come to any further attention of the gardai. He asked that Mr Kelly be further remanded on bail to allow him receive therapeutic treatment. Judge Comerford acceded to the application "with no promises and warned that if Mr Kelly doesnt avail of treatment he will be going to jail. It is as simple as that. Judge Comerford said that completed therapy would have beneficial effects for society. The judge added that the most aggravating factors in the case were evidence around the online chats used to rebut Mr Kellys claim that he was trying to entrap paedophiles rather than the child pornography offences before the court. Judge Comerford said that the child pornography offence was at the lower end when one sees other offenders coming before the courts with thousands of images "but all such images are horrible". He noted that Mr Kelly has shown no remorse "and his wife wanted him to engage with a clinical psychologist but he didnt want to do that. Judge Comerford lifted reporting restrictions that had been in place and Mr Madden expressed concern for the impact on Mr Kellys children that publication of his name would have on them. Judge Comerford said that identification is part of the deterrent effect against such offences. "I appreciate it is very difficult for the children of the accused. It isnt good at all. But there is no basis for reporting restrictions. It is a particularly heinous crime," he commented. Judge Comerford remanded Mr Kelly on continuing bail and the case will be mentioned again on March 8 at Ennis Circuit Court. Irelands foreign affairs minister has said there is no question that the Russian state killed Alexei Navalny. Micheal Martin said that Ireland has a duty to communicate in the strongest possible manner its condemnation of the death of Russias opposition leader. The Russian prison service announced that Mr Navalny died during his detention at an Arctic penal colony on Friday. The Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary General met the Russian Ambassador on Tuesday, where Irelands outrage was conveyed to the Russian diplomat. It was relayed to Yury Filatov that the ultimate responsibility for (Navalnys) death rests with Russian leadership. The department also called for a full, independent and transparent investigation into his death. .@dfatirl summoned the Russian Ambassador yesterday to express outrage at the death in prison of opposition politician Alexei Navalny, reiterate that ultimate responsibility for his death rests with Russian leadership, & call for a full, independent & transparent investigation. https://t.co/cNKA76JSq5 Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) February 21, 2024 Mr Martin, who met Mr Navalnys widow Yulia Navalnaya at the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday, said her husbands treatment in detention was chilling and ruthless. Asked if he agreed with her that the Russian state killed Mr Navalny, he said: Theres no question about that. Im not just referring to the actual immediate situation at the weekend but rather the progressive, savage treatment of him in terms of his imprisonment and his movement to the Arctic Circle. There are some harrowing accounts of the latter stages of his detention in terms of freezing cold in the cells, the limited exercise. On a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin said the treatment and death of Mr Navalny was reflective of the oppressive regime in Moscow. It reflects a regime that is suppressing freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, opposition, dissent and we communicated that to him, and also weve communicated to the ambassador repeatedly that Russia should pull back and withdraw out of Ukraine because of the misery that has been inflicted on so many Ukrainians, and the war is quite shocking also, he said. We want good relations with countries, but when the UN charter is so flagrantly violated, we have to communicate in the strongest possible manner our view, and the view of the Irish people, to such acts. Asked why Dana Erlich, the Israeli ambassador to Ireland, had not been summoned to answer questions over her countrys actions in Gaza, Mr Martin said I have communicated directly to the Israeli government. I met (former) foreign minister (Eli) Cohen and weve communicated directly from government to government our position in respect of the war on Gaza and the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, and the need for unimpeded access of humanitarian aid and support. We will continue to do that and we also communicate, and we have communicated, with the Israeli ambassador also. Actor & Advocate Marilee Talkington Receives 2024 Helen Keller Achievement Award WASHINGTON, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is pleased to announce actor Marilee Talkington will be among those to receive the prestigious Helen Keller Achievement Award, which AFB will present during a special evening ceremony on April 18th in Los Angeles. Actor Marilee Talkington will receive the American Foundation for the Blind's 2024 Helen Keller Achievement Award An acclaimed actor and activist for performers with disabilities, AFB recognizes Talkington for her continued contribution to breaking down barriers for people with disabilities in the performing arts. She recently made history again, capturing the role of Morgan Le Fey in Aaron Sorkin's adaptation of Camelot, becoming the first self-identified legally blind actress cast in a principal role on Broadway. With over 25 years of experience on stage and screen, Talkington also continues to open doors for other actors with disabilities, founding AC3: Access Acting Academy, the first-of-its-kind actor training studio for performers who are blind or have low vision. "Throughout her twenty-five-year career in the performing arts, Marilee has broken down the misconceptions too often placed upon individuals with disabilities," said AFB President & CEO Eric Bridges. "By taking on over 100 individual roles, her success on stage and screen has bridged the inclusion gap for performers with disabilities." Since 1994, the Helen Keller Achievement Award has recognized the finest thought leaders, change-makers, and performing artists committed to carrying on Keller's mission to create a world of full and equal inclusion for people with disabilities. For over 40 years, Helen Keller was AFB's leading ambassador, inspiring millions worldwide as she demonstrated all that can be accomplished through determination and perseverance. AFB continues to honor Keller's legacy by recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations from industry, education, and the arts who have distinguished themselves in pursuit of expanding possibilities for those who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Past honorees include author and advocate Haben Girma, tech leader and entrepreneur Bernard Newcomb, Chef Christine Ha, actor Charlie Cox, and performing artists Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder. Founded in 1921, the American Foundation for the Blind creates equal opportunities and expands possibilities for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision through advocacy, thought leadership, and strategic partnerships. In addition to publishing the Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness (JVIB), AFB is also the proud steward of the Helen Keller Archive on www.afb.org. SOURCE American Foundation for the Blind 20 february 2024 at 14:39 News published onand distributed by: Graphic Packaging Holding Company to Sell Augusta Paperboard Manufacturing Facility to Clearwater Paper Corporation ATLANTA and SPOKANE, Wash., Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE:GPK) ("Graphic Packaging"), and Clearwater Paper Corporation (NYSE: CLW) ("Clearwater Paper"), today announced that Graphic Packaging has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Augusta, Georgia bleached paperboard manufacturing facility to Clearwater Paper. The transaction value is approximately $700 million, based on Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $100 million. "Augusta is an outstanding asset with a great team, which we concluded is a more compelling fit with Clearwater Paper's strategic growth plans than our own. Bleached paperboard plays a major role in sustainable consumer packaging, and we will continue to service growing foodservice and packaging demand with bleached paperboard from our Texarkana facility," said Michael Doss, President and Chief Executive Officer of Graphic Packaging. Clearwater Paper Chief Executive Officer Arsen Kitch added, "Augusta is a great fit with our strategy and improves our position as a premier, independent paperboard supplier to North American converters. I look forward to welcoming the Augusta team to Clearwater Paper as we work together to build a more scaled paperboard business to service our customers." The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is currently expected to close in the second quarter of 2024. TD Securities is serving as Clearwater Paper's financial advisor and Pillsbury, Winthrop, Shaw, Pittman LLP is lead transaction counsel for Clearwater and Stoel, Rives LLP is providing environmental counsel. The financial advisor for Graphic Packaging is BofA Securities and Alston & Bird LLP is lead transaction counsel. About Graphic Packaging Holding Company Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE: GPK), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, designs and produces consumer packaging that makes a world of difference. An industry leader in innovation, the Company is committed to reducing the environmental footprint of consumer packaging. Graphic Packaging operates a global network of design and manufacturing facilities serving the world's most widely recognized brands in food, beverage, foodservice, household, and other consumer products. Learn more at www.graphicpkg.com. About Clearwater Paper Corporation Clearwater Paper is a premier supplier of private brand tissue products and bleached paperboard. The company's tissue serves private brand market retail customers including grocery, club, mass merchants, and discount stores. The company's paperboard operations serve quality-conscious printers and packaging converters, with services that include custom sheeting, slitting, and cutting. Clearwater Paper's employees build shareholder value by developing strong relationships through quality and service. For additional information on Clearwater Paper, please visit our website at www.clearwaterpaper.com. Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking" statements as that term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the proposed transaction between Clearwater and Graphic Packaging. All statements, other than historical facts, including statements regarding the expected timing and structure of the proposed transaction; the ability of the parties to complete the proposed transaction considering the various closing conditions; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements concern future circumstances and results and other statements that are not historical facts and are sometimes identified by the words "may," "will," "should," "potential," "intend," "expect,", "endeavor," "seek," "anticipate," "estimate," "overestimate," "underestimate," "believe," "could," "project," "predict," "continue," "target" or other similar words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are based upon current plans, estimates and expectations that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. The inclusion of such statements should not be regarded as a representation that such plans, estimates or expectations will be achieved. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such plans, estimates or expectations include, among others, (1) that one or more closing conditions to the transaction, including certain regulatory approvals, may not be satisfied or waived, on a timely basis or otherwise; (2) the risk that the proposed transaction may not be completed in the time frame expected by the parties, or at all; (3) unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (4) the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with the proposed transaction or other settlements or investigations may affect the timing or occurrence of the contemplated transaction or result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; and (5) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in the Clearwater's and Graphic Packaging's reports filed with the SEC, including their Annual Reports on Form 10-K, periodic quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, periodic current reports on Form 8-K and other documents filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exclusive. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements, as such statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and neither Clearwater nor Graphic Packaging undertake any obligation to update such statements, except as may be required by law. SOURCE Graphic Packaging Holding Company 20 february 2024 at 16:17 News published onand distributed by: Manulife announces Subordinated Debenture issue C$ unless otherwise stated TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945 TORONTO, Feb. 20, 2024 /CNW/ - Manulife Financial Corporation ("MFC") announced today that it intends to issue $1.1 billion principal amount of 5.054% fixed/floating subordinated debentures due February 23, 2034 (the "Debentures"). MFC intends to file a prospectus supplement to its existing base shelf prospectus in respect of this issue. The Debentures will bear interest at a fixed rate of 5.054% until February 23, 2029 and thereafter at a rate of 1.44% over Daily Compounded CORRA. The Debentures mature on February 23, 2034. Subject to prior regulatory approval, MFC may redeem the Debentures, in whole or in part, on or after February 23, 2029 at a redemption price equal to par, together with accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date fixed for redemption. The Debentures will constitute subordinated indebtedness, ranking equally and rateably with all other subordinated indebtedness of MFC from time to time issued and outstanding (other than subordinated indebtedness which has been further subordinated in accordance with its terms). The offering is being done on a best efforts agency basis by a syndicate co-led by RBC Capital Markets, BMO Capital Markets, and CIBC Capital Markets. The offering is expected to close on February 23, 2024. MFC intends to use the net proceeds from the offering of the Debentures for general corporate purposes, including investment in subsidiaries and potential future redemptions of existing securities. The Debentures have not been and will not be registered in the United States under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, a "U.S. person" (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy securities in the United States and any public offering of the securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus. About Manulife Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our Global Wealth and Asset Management segment, we serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under '945' in Hong Kong. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com. SOURCE Manulife Financial Corporation 20 february 2024 at 17:45 News published onand distributed by: Richmond seafood processing company fined $40,000 for undersized crabs RICHMOND, BC , Feb. 20, 2024 /CNW/ - A routine inspection of commercial seafood processing plants by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) fishery officers in January 2023 resulted in a fine of $40,000. On December 6, 2023, Tenshi Seafood Limited was handed down the fine in Richmond Provincial Court after pleading guilty to the possession of undersize crabs by a commercial business, which is a violation of Canada's Fisheries Act. The harvest of undersized crab is the largest threat to conservation of Dungeness crab stocks, which is a traditional food source for Indigenous communities and core to the livelihood of commercial crab harvesters. Dungeness crab is also a significant economic benefit to coastal communities; specifically, the recreational fishery industry and tourism. This is the second significant fine for Tenshi Seafood Limited, which was also fined $75,000 in January 2020 for obstruction and ordered to comply with various conditions. DFO has a mandate to protect and conserve marine resources and to enforce the Fisheries Act. As part of DFO's work to disrupt and prevent illegal activity, the Department asks the public for information on activities of this nature or any contravention of the Fisheries Act and regulations. Anyone with information can call DFO Pacific region's toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336, or email the details to [email protected]. Quick Facts All commercial seafood companies are required to follow comprehensive and stringent regulations covered under Provincial and Federal laws, including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency regulations, and the Fisheries Act . . The significant fine underscores the seriousness of violating fishing rules and regulations under Canada's Fisheries Act intended to protect Canada's economic sovereignty and preserve at-risk fish populations. intended to protect economic sovereignty and preserve at-risk fish populations. Size limits are used as the primary conservation measure in all these crab fisheries. In British Columbia , the size limit for male Dungeness crab is 165 mm across the maximum breadth of the carapace. Females may not be retained. , the size limit for male Dungeness crab is 165 mm across the maximum breadth of the carapace. Females may not be retained. The protection of females and a significant portion of the mature males in Dungeness crab populations ensure that harvestable stocks can be sustained. Links: Previous conviction for Tenshi Seafood Ltd. - Obstructing DFO fishery officers performing their duty, or failing to provide required documentation, are serious and potentially costly offences - Canada.ca Stay Connected Follow Fisheries and Oceans Canada on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Subscribe to receive our news releases and more via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/media/rss-eng.htm SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Pacific Region 20 february 2024 at 18:04 News published onand distributed by: DMG Blockchain Solutions Announces Q1 2024 Financial Results Release Date, Operational and Bosonic Investment Updates VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. (TSX-V: DMGI) (OTCQB US: DMGGF) (FRANKFURT: 6AX) ("DMG" or the "Company"), a vertically integrated blockchain and data center technology company, today announces it will release financial results for its first quarter 2024 ending December 31, 2023 on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 after the market close. The Company will host a conference call to review its results and provide a corporate update on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 4:30 pm ET. Attendees should register in advance here . Additionally, DMG announces recent operational updates: New Mining Capacity: In total, DMG plans to energize 54 mining containers, which will house its ordered 4,550 units of new Bitmain T21 miners, its currently operating S19 XP miners along with some of its less efficient legacy fleet. DMG has received all the major electrical distribution components and mining containers, which are now located either at its Christina Lake data center facility or with its integration partners. The migration of a portion of its existing miners to containers will free up capacity inside DMG's Christina Lake data center building to expand its immersion cooling infrastructure. Subsequent to the container deployment, DMG's total electrical capacity will be approximately double its current Christina Lake building capacity of 36 megawatts. In total, DMG plans to energize 54 mining containers, which will house its ordered 4,550 units of new Bitmain T21 miners, its currently operating S19 XP miners along with some of its less efficient legacy fleet. DMG has received all the major electrical distribution components and mining containers, which are now located either at its Christina Lake data center facility or with its integration partners. The migration of a portion of its existing miners to containers will free up capacity inside DMG's Christina Lake data center building to expand its immersion cooling infrastructure. Subsequent to the container deployment, DMG's total electrical capacity will be approximately double its current Christina Lake building capacity of 36 megawatts. New Data Center Site: Regarding DMG's development of a new data center site with access to low-cost reliable renewable energy located in Canada in a province outside of British Columbia, there has been significant progress towards receiving regulatory approvals for power. In addition, the Company is proceeding with its capital outlay plan and is working towards executing a binding agreement. Further information will be provided if and when the definitive agreement and regulatory approvals are obtained for this new data center site. Regarding DMG's development of a new data center site with access to low-cost reliable renewable energy located in Canada in a province outside of British Columbia, there has been significant progress towards receiving regulatory approvals for power. In addition, the Company is proceeding with its capital outlay plan and is working towards executing a binding agreement. Further information will be provided if and when the definitive agreement and regulatory approvals are obtained for this new data center site. Immersion Cooling Technology: After a long period of engineering development, DMG has ordered its first production environment immersion cooling tanks with the goal to have an initial closed loop set-up completed in the June 2024 quarter. Subsequent to this initial build-out, the Company will then purchase the remainder of the equipment necessary to energize the first 12-megawatt phase. In addition, DMG has selected a deployment partner that is located near its Christina Lake facility with which it has a long standing relationship. For this first phase of immersion cooling, the Company intends to operate using primarily legacy miners to prove out the technology. DMG's CEO, Sheldon Bennett commented, "DMG is making good progress to transform its Christina Lake data center facility and to proceed with the development of our potential second site that will enable us to grow beyond 2 EH/s capacity. As we look at how Bitcoin mining infrastructure is continuing to evolve, we are staying at the forefront with deployment of immersion cooling technology along with infrastructure for a new generation of highly efficient miners that run on 3-phase power." New Loan to Bosonic DMG announces it has provided a total of an additional US$600,000 of debt financing to Bosonic, Inc. to support its continued development and help enable it to sustain cash flow positive operations. As of September 30, 2023, DMG had provided US$150,000 of debt and during the three months ended December 31, 2023, DMG had provided a further US$450,000 of debt to Bosonic. The debt is interest bearing at 7.5% and is due within 18 months. DMG Engages Power Mining Analysis Ltd. DMG announces it has engaged Power Mining Analysis Ltd. to support DMG's marketing efforts to increase awareness and show how it performs as a Bitcoin miner relative to its peer group. Power Mining Analysis was founded by Anthony Power and Bryce McNallie, both well-known Bitcoin mining industry analysts. This engagement began on February 1, 2024 at a cost of US$3,500 per month. About DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. DMG is an environmentally friendly vertically integrated blockchain and data center company that manages, operates and develops end-to-end digital solutions to monetize the blockchain ecosystem. DMG's sustainable businesses are segmented into two business lines under the Core and Core+ strategies and unified through DMG's vertical integration. For more information on DMG Blockchain Solutions visit: www.dmgblockchain.com Follow @dmgblockchain on X and subscribe to DMG's YouTube channel. For further information, please contact: On behalf of the Board of Directors, Sheldon Bennett, CEO & Director Tel: 516-222-2560 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dmgblockchain.com Investor Relations Contact : CORE IR 516-222-2560 For Media Inquiries : Jules Abraham CORE IR 917-885-7378 [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking information or statements based on current expectations. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements regarding DMG's strategies and plans, the expected increase in realized hashrate, completing the build and upgrades for immersion cooling, expected substation maintenance, the deployment of new capacity, the expected arrival of new miners, to acquire a new data center, the expected timelines, developing and executing on the Company's products and services, increasing self-mining, efforts to improve the operation of its mining fleet, the launch of products and services, events, courses of action, and the potential of the Company's technology and operations, among others, are all forward-looking information. Future changes in the Bitcoin network-wide mining difficulty rate or Bitcoin hash rate may materially affect the future performance of DMG's production of bitcoin, and future operating results could also be materially affected by the price of bitcoin and an increase in hash rate mining difficulty. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, market and other conditions, volatility in the trading price of the common shares of the Company, business, economic and capital market conditions; the ability to manage operating expenses, which may adversely affect the Company's financial condition; the ability to remain competitive as other better financed competitors develop and release competitive products; regulatory uncertainties; access to equipment; market conditions and the demand and pricing for products; the demand and pricing of bitcoins; security threats, including a loss/theft of DMG's bitcoins; DMG's relationships with its customers, distributors and business partners; the inability to add more power to DMG's facilities; DMG's ability to successfully define, design and release new products in a timely manner that meet customers' needs; the ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel; competition in the industry; the impact of technology changes on the products and industry; failure to develop new and innovative products; the ability to successfully maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and defend third-party claims of infringement of their intellectual property rights; the impact of intellectual property litigation that could materially and adversely affect the business; the ability to manage working capital; and the dependence on key personnel. DMG may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, the ability to successfully develop software, that there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business, anticipated costs, the ability to secure sufficient capital to complete its business plans, the ability to achieve goals and the price of bitcoin. Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The securities of DMG are considered highly speculative due to the nature of DMG's business. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to the Company's filings on www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, DMG's past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, failure to obtain regulatory approval, the continued availability of capital and financing, equipment failures, lack of supply of equipment, power and infrastructure, failure to obtain any permits required to operate the business, the impact of technology changes on the industry, the impact of Covid-19 or other viruses and diseases on the Company's ability to operate, secure equipment, and hire personnel, competition, security threats including stolen bitcoins from DMG or its customers, consumer sentiment towards DMG's products, services and blockchain technology generally, failure to develop new and innovative products, litigation, adverse weather or climate events, increase in operating costs, increase in equipment and labor costs, equipment failures, decrease in the price of Bitcoin, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above. 20 february 2024 at 22:30 News published onand distributed by: Lincoln Property Company, BPGbio, and Cresa Announce 70,000-sq.-ft. Lease at 300 Third Avenue in Waltham Lincoln Property Company ("Lincoln"), Cresa Boston, and BPGbio, Inc., a leading biology-first AI-powered biopharma that focuses on oncology, neurology, and rare diseases, today announced that BPGbio has leased approx. 70,000 sq. ft. of lab and office space at 300 Third Avenue in Waltham, Mass. The company plans to relocate its headquarters from Framingham and expand into two full floors of the new space circa June 2025, significantly increasing its footprint in the Boston region. The property is co-owned by a MetLife Investment Management client. "The move to the vibrant culture and biotech talent pool in and around Waltham positions BPGbio onto a successful growth trajectory to serve patients. Our employees are excited with the additional space which enables BPGbio to accelerate development of therapeutics and diagnostics in our pipeline," said Niven R. Narain, Ph.D., CEO of BPGbio. "Our new facility will also house our 100,000+ sample rich biobank, which forms the basis of our unique biology-first, AI-powered drug development, and fuel successful partnerships with pharma, academic, and government partners." "We are excited to welcome BPGbio to 300 Third and to help expand Waltham's flourishing biotech community," said Scott Faber, Senior Vice President of Investments and Acquisitions at Lincoln. 300 Third Avenue is a 143,533-sq.-ft. purpose-built life science building with four stories of laboratory space and 441 on-site parking spaces. The project is LEED Gold and WiredScore Gold certified, providing best-in-class connectivity, infrastructure, and technology readiness. On-site amenities include a roof deck, fitness center, grab & go cafe, and free shuttle to Alewife (MBTA Red Line to Cambridge). The high-visibility building is located on Route 128 in one of Greater Boston's largest life science clusters. 300 Third is nearly fully leased, with Lincoln now marketing the last remaining floor. BPGbio's therapeutic pipeline, developed from the company's Bayesian-AI powered NAi Interrogative Biology Platform, includes therapeutic candidates being studied for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in active phase 2b trials, pancreatic cancer, having recently completed a phase 2a trial, epidermolysis bullosa (EB), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), sarcopenia, solid and liquid tumors, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes type II. The company's diagnostic pipeline includes its prostate diagnostic panel pstateDx, as well as tests being developed and validated for the detection of Parkinson's disease, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and liver disease. Lincoln's Tim Latham, Christopher Scott and Chris Devaux represented ownership in the transaction. Cresa Boston's Paul Delaney, Adam Subber, and Nate Heilbron represented the tenant. BPGbio joins another biotech company, Biocytogen, in the building. About Lincoln Property Company Lincoln Property Company ("Lincoln") is one of the largest diversified real estate services companies with 35 offices across the United States the United Kingdom and Europe. Offering a comprehensive suite of real estate solutions, Lincoln manages, leases, develops, and provides advisory services to owners and occupiers of office, life science, retail, industrial, data center, production studio, and mixed-used properties. Lincoln's combined management and leasing portfolio on behalf of institutional clients includes approximately 500 million square feet of commercial space. In addition to providing third party real estate services, Lincoln, which was founded in 1965, has principally acquired and developed more than $24 billion and 62 million square feet of commercial projects since 2018. For more information, visit: www.lpc.com. About BPGbio, Inc. BPGbio is a leading AI-powered clinical stage biopharma and diagnostics company focused on oncology, neurology, and rare diseases. The company has a deep portfolio of AI-developed therapeutics, including several in late stage development. BPGbio's novel approach is underpinned by NAi, its proprietary Interrogative Biology Platform, protected by over 400 US and international patents; the world's largest clinically annotated non-governmental biobank; and exclusive access to the most powerful supercomputer in the world. With these tools, BPGbio is redefining how patient biology can be modeled using unbiased AI. Headquartered in Boston, the company is at the forefront of a new era in medicine, combining biology, data, and AI to transform the way disease is diagnosed and treated. For more information, visit bpgbio.com About Cresa Cresa is the world's only global commercial real estate advisory firm that exclusively represents occupiers and specializes in the delivery of fully integrated real estate solutions. Cresa's purpose is to think beyond space, strengthening those we serve and enhancing the quality of life for our clients. Delivered across every industry, Cresa's services include Transaction Management, Workplace Solutions, Project Management, Consulting, Lease Administration, Technology, Investment Banking & Capital Markets, and Portfolio Solutions. In partnership with London-based Knight Frank, Cresa provides service through 16,000 people, across 380 offices in 51 territories. For more information, please visit www.cresa.com. 21 february 2024 at 07:05 News published onand distributed by: Enterprise Civitan Club members were joined by their respective pastors as the club celebrated Pastor Appreciation Day during its meeting Feb. 13. We express to our clergy our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the contributions that they make to our community, said Civitan Secretary Kassie Skinner. We commend them for their efforts to help mankind each day. Your efforts mean so very much. A sincere thank you from all of us. Retired Army Col. Chaplain Sonny Moore was keynote speaker at the meeting. Moore has served as Coffee County District 3 Commissioner since his appointment by Gov. Kay Ivey in December 2022 to fill the remainder of the term of Commissioner Josh Carnley, who had been elected state senator. Moore, currently the Director of Community Relations for M1 Support Services, served as a civilian pastor for 16 years before coming on military active duty in 1982. He retired in June 2008 after serving 34 years in uniform. In January 2018, he was made the Honorary Chaplain for the U.S. Army Aviation Branch. Moore talked about his service as a military chaplain. Chaplains get paid, promoted, assigned like every other branch. They come from all denominations and serve all faith groups, he said. The main function of a military chaplain is to help the commander carry out their mission, he added. That means being boots on the ground and side-by-side with soldiers, he said. Moore told the World War II story of four military chaplains who were among the 904 men on the USS Dorchester that sank after being torpedoed. Only 230 were rescued in what Moore said is called the biggest naval disaster of World War II. The clergymen, John P. Washington, Alexander D. Goode, George L. Fox, and Clarke V. Poling, were young lieutenants just months out of military chaplain school who had joined the military in the wake of the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Each wanted more than anything else to serve God by ministering to men on the battlefield which brought them together on USS Dorchester, Moore said. These four men gave up their life jackets for others when the ship was hit. When the moment came, they did not hesitate to put others before themselves, with the full knowledge of the consequences, Moore said. A witness said he remembers them locked arm in arm going down to a watery grave. The story of these four chaplains, a Catholic, a Jew, and two Protestants, stands out as one of the finest examples of courage to God, fellow man, and country. We lost 100 chaplains in World War II; Im surprised we did not lose more, Moore said. The Chaplain Branch lost more soldiers than anybody besides Army Air Corps and Infantry. Ive always said that the chaplains strongest ministry is the ministry of presence, just being there, Moore said. Chaplains are out there wherever the soldiers are. Time is running out for all of us, and I want mine to count, Moore said. If I could live it over again, I wouldnt want to be anything more than Id want to be a soldier and a chaplain. Caribou Coffee Selects Toast to Support Growing Coffeehouse Footprint Toast (NYSE: TOST), the digital technology platform built for restaurants, today announced an agreement with Caribou Coffee to implement Toast Enterprise Solutions across 500 initial coffeehouse locations in the United States. In addition to Toast point-of-sale (POS) terminals, Caribou Coffee will use Toast Payments, Kitchen Display Systems (KDS), and Multi-Location Management. Caribou Coffee has made significant progress in its retail expansion plan through company-owned development as well as its previously announced franchise program. To help support the brand's growing coffeehouse footprint, Caribou Coffee sought a modern technology partner with a robust, scalable POS solution that would be easy to use for all stakeholders including company and franchisee operators and team members. Focused on maximizing speed of service while maintaining an enhanced guest and team experience, Caribou Coffee also wanted to ensure availability of key features to support guests like the ability to modify active orders and offer flexible payment options. "Caribou Coffee was founded over 30 years ago with a vision to bring personal service into the coffeehouse space. That commitment to our guest and team member experience guides us today as we announce this exciting partnership. Toast proved to be the ideal strategic technology partner for our brand as we introduce tools that will ensure we can bring our coffeehouse experience to more guests than ever before," said Scott Kennedy, Chief Financial Officer at Caribou Coffee. "Toast took the time to understand our business and clearly demonstrate that they can support our team members and guests with their easy to use, easy to manage platform." "Like Caribou Coffee, Toast is similarly committed to supporting the ?day making' experiences our customers want to deliver, offering innovation and operational efficiencies to help differentiate brands in the market, and providing the foundations for scale that fast-growing, tech-forward brands need," said Kelly Esten, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Enterprise at Toast. "We are thrilled to be working with Caribou Coffee as they bring such a beloved brand to new markets across the U.S." Toast currently serves hundreds of multi-unit brands, including Craveworthy Brands, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Papa Gino's & D'Angelo, The Human Bean, Bar Louie, Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill, and Juice It Up!, among others. For more information about Toast and its enterprise capabilities, visit our Toast for Enterprise page. About Toast Toast [NYSE: TOST] is a cloud-based, all-in-one digital technology platform purpose-built for the entire restaurant community. Toast provides a comprehensive platform of software as a service (SaaS) products and financial technology solutions that give restaurants everything they need to run their business across point of sale, payments, operations, digital ordering and delivery, marketing and loyalty, and team management. We serve as the restaurant operating system, connecting front of house and back of house operations across service models including dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and retail. Toast helps restaurants streamline operations, increase revenue, and deliver amazing guest experiences. For more information, visit www.toasttab.com. About Caribou Coffee Caribou Coffee provides high-quality, handcrafted coffee-forward beverages and craveable food options in more than 800 coffeehouses worldwide. Known for a commitment to sustainable practices and making a difference, Caribou Coffee serves 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee beans and crafts each menu item with the purpose to create day-making experiences. This passion for premium is also why Caribou Coffee makes every handcrafted beverage with only high-quality ingredients, like real chocolate chips, and no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Caribou Coffee has 333 company-owned, 140 non-traditional and 338 franchise locations in 11 countries, as of December 26, 2023. Caribou Coffee is part of Panera Brands, a portfolio of complementary brands bound by common values, comprising Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Bagels. To learn more about Caribou Coffee, visit CaribouCoffee.com. Forward-looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements," within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the context of the statement and generally arise when Toast or its management is discussing its beliefs, estimates or expectations. Such statements generally include the words "believes," "plans," "intends," "targets," "may," "could," "should," "will," "expects," "estimates," "suggests," "anticipates," "outlook," "continues," or similar expressions. These statements are not historical facts or guarantees of future performance, but represent the beliefs of Toast and its management at the time the statements were made regarding future events which are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Toast's control. Actual results and outcomes may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the agreement between Toast and Caribou Coffee and its impact on Toast's business and operations, and the planned and future implementation of the Toast platform at Caribou Coffee. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in Toast's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including in the sections entitled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations'' in Toast's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, Toast's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended September 30, 2023, and Toast's subsequent SEC filings. Toast can give no assurance that the plans, intentions, expectations or strategies as reflected in or suggested by those forward-looking statements will be attained or achieved. The forward-looking statements in this release are based on information available to Toast as of the date hereof, and Toast disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Toast's views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. TOST-CORP 21 february 2024 at 08:05 News published onand distributed by: Women's Health Campaign Launches to Advocate for Insurance Coverage of Obesity Care Alliance for Women's Health and Prevention convenes partners for first campaign to mobilize women in support of insurance coverage for obesity care WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- EveryBODY Covered, the first campaign aiming to activate women to advocate for insurance coverage of comprehensive obesity care, was launched today by the Alliance for Women's Health and Prevention (AWHP), in partnership with ten leading organizations across the healthcare community. EveryBODY Covered is a new campaign focused on empowering women to speak out about the need for comprehensive obesity care coverage. Though recognized as a chronic and treatable disease for over a decade, misunderstandings around obesity have led to health insurance barriers that limit a person's ability to receive the full range of obesity care options, particularly when it comes to medications. Obesity is a chronic disease that impacts the health and well-being of women throughout their lives. More than 1 in 3 American women, including 57% of Black and 44% of Hispanic women, are affected by obesity. Women with obesity are also more likely to face harmful social stigma and discrimination?in the workplace and beyond. Even though obesity is associated with over 200 other health conditions, less than half of employers currently cover or are considering covering the latest generation of anti-obesity medications, Medicare does not provide coverage for them and just 16 state Medicaid programs cover anti-obesity or weight-loss medications. "Obesity is a chronic disease, and it's only fair that it should be treated that way," said Millicent Gorham, CEO and Board Chair of AWHP. "The EveryBODY Covered campaign seeks to empower women to call for obesity care to be covered by insurance?just like care for other chronic diseases is covered. We are proud to partner with other leading voices in healthcare to champion access to the full spectrum of obesity care." Partners of the EveryBODY Covered campaign represent top voices on women's health and obesity and bring with them the invaluable perspectives of the diverse communities they serve. Current partners include Alliance for Aging Research, American Medical Women's Association, Black Women's Health Imperative, Cancer Support Community, Gerontological Society of America, National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health, National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc., National Consumers League, Obesity Action Coalition, and Society for Women's Health Research. "Obesity is a complex disease that deserves the same level of coverage and compassion as other chronic conditions," said Joseph Nadglowski, President and CEO, Obesity Action Coalition. "The EveryBODY Covered campaign is a significant stride towards ensuring women have access to the evidence-based obesity treatment options they need." "Healthcare professionals need to be able to provide the full range of obesity care options for their patients, and patients need access to that care," said Dr. Eliza Chin, Executive Director of the American Medical Women's Association. "Obesity deserves the same level of coverage as any other chronic disease." The EveryBODY Covered campaign will advocate for expanding coverage of obesity care by: Empowering women of diverse backgrounds to use their voices to share their journeys and advocate for coverage. to use their voices to share their journeys and advocate for coverage. Urging employers, insurers, and elected officials to ensure coverage for the full range of evidence-based obesity care and treatment. for the full range of evidence-based obesity care and treatment. Advocating for the passage of the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act to ensure older adults have access to obesity treatments. to ensure older adults have access to obesity treatments. Bringing together leading organizations working in women's health and impacted disease states to provide their unique perspectives and ensure the campaign advances access to comprehensive obesity care for everybody. To learn more about the EveryBODY Covered campaign, please visit everybodycovered.org and follow the campaign on LinkedIn, X @everybodycvrd, Facebook and Instagram @everybodycovered. Support for the EveryBODY Covered campaign has been provided by Eli Lilly & Co. About AWHP The Alliance for Women's Health and Prevention is a non-partisan 501(c)(4) non-profit organization working to ensure that all women and girls have access to high-quality preventive care. Our mission is to advance policy that drives equitable access and prevents the burden and progression of disease to improve the lives and health of all women and girls. For more information on AWHP, please visit WomensHealthandPrevention.org and follow us on LinkedIn and X @AWHPOrg. SOURCE Alliance for Women's Health & Prevention 21 february 2024 at 08:30 News published onand distributed by: Sunbird Bio to Present Positive Data from APEX Alzheimer's Disease Diagnostic Platform at AD/PDtm 2024 Sunbird Bio, a biotechnology company developing proprietary protein- and blood-based technologies to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and early-stage cancer, today announced that new data from a study evaluating its APEX diagnostic platform in Alzheimer's disease will be presented at the upcoming AD/PDtm 2024 International Conference on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease, taking place March 5-9, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. "We look forward to sharing the latest data from ongoing studies of our APEX platform at this year's AD/PD conference," said John McDonough, executive chair and CEO of Sunbird Bio. "The increasing availability of treatments for Alzheimer's disease has amplified the need for improved diagnostics that will help physicians diagnose and treat patients much earlier. Our latest findings reinforce the potential of our APEX technology to overcome the inaccessibility, invasiveness and lack of reliability associated with today's diagnostic tests." APEX, Sunbird Bio's lead technology platform, is uniquely capable of detecting very low levels of nanoscale, disease-specific protein states in blood with high accuracy. Data published previously in Nature Communications demonstrated that the APEX platform can accurately detect amyloid beta (A?) molecules in the blood and thus signal the presence of Alzheimer's disease. Following are details about the APEX poster presentation at AD/PDtm 2024: Title: Blood-Based Measurement of Circulating Prefibrillar Amyloid Biomarker Differentiates PET Verified Brain Amyloid Positivity Status in AD Cohort Blood-Based Measurement of Circulating Prefibrillar Amyloid Biomarker Differentiates PET Verified Brain Amyloid Positivity Status in AD Cohort Presenter: Mario Morken, Vice President, Head of Business Development Mario Morken, Vice President, Head of Business Development Theme A: B-Amyloid Diseases / A04.G. Imaging, Biomarkers, Diagnostics: Csf, Blood, Body Fluid Biomarkers B-Amyloid Diseases / A04.G. Imaging, Biomarkers, Diagnostics: Csf, Blood, Body Fluid Biomarkers Date and Time: Friday, March 8, 2024, 9:00AM WET ? Saturday, March 9, 2024, 6:00PM WET About Sunbird Bio Sunbird Bio is a biotechnology company developing proprietary protein- and blood-based diagnostic tests that provide unprecedented insights to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and early-stage cancer. Sunbird's innovative technologies uniquely detect the property and activity of proteins to empower researchers and clinicians with actionable information that is not available or accessible from current tests. Sunbird Bio's unparalleled leadership in protein-based diagnostics positions the company to become a global leader in the field, addressing significant research and clinical gaps, and serving multiple, sizable markets. For more information, please visit sunbirdbio.com. 21 february 2024 at 08:35 News published onand distributed by: Sira Medical Wins FDA Clearance for Augmented Reality Preoperative Surgical Planning Software The company aims to make surgery safer and more efficient SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Sira Medical 510(k) clearance for its augmented reality preoperative surgical planning application, which provides clinicians with advanced imaging to assist in making key patient management decisions. Parts of the anatomy are often partially or fully hidden on CT scans and MRIs. The lack of clarity forces surgeons to make critical decisions on the fly during surgery, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies. Sira Medical's holograms remove these obstacles, allowing surgeons to prepare for surgery with more confidence by providing opportunities to reduce patient complications and improve outcomes. "We enable surgeons to manipulate anatomical models, make virtual cuts, and simulate corrections, among other features," said Rick Beberman, Sira Medical's co-founder and CEO. "Our proprietary image creation process provides anatomical clarity and fidelity." To validate its technology, Sira Medical has conducted multiple peer-reviewed studies which demonstrate greater surgical efficiency by reducing operating time, and a preference for using augmented reality models for surgical planning. "When planning for surgery, surgeons face a recurring challenge in applying radiology information onto real-world patients, because they still rely on 2D images," said co-founder and University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Pediatric Radiologist Dr. Jesse Courtier. "Our technology eliminates that hurdle, thus improving efficiency and patient safety." Sira Medical technology was originally developed at UCSF, with funding from the UCSF Innovation Ventures Catalyst program and exclusively licensed through the UCSF Office of Technology Management and Advancement. The company has raised additional funding from 500 Global and Eileses Capital. "The $15 billion market for CT scans and MRIs is ripe for innovation," said Kishore Bopardikar, Managing Partner at Eileses Capital. "By achieving this major milestone and attracting positive reviews from surgeons, we believe Sira Medical is poised to become a leader in the medical imaging sector." About Sira Medical Sira Medical develops augmented reality software for preoperative planning, patient education, and training by providing patient-specific holograms derived from the same data used to generate conventional CT scans and MRIs. The company's SaaS-based platform is easy to use, and designed to make surgeons better at what they do and their lives easier. Media Contact Rick Beberman Chief Executive Officer Sira Medical [email protected] 415-740-3009 SOURCE Sira Medical 21 february 2024 at 08:44 News published onand distributed by: Financial Services Firm Co-operators Adopts Latest Version of Hearsay Sites and Sees Immediate Growth in Customer Pipeline Hearsay Systems, the trusted global leader in digital client engagement for the financial services industry, today announced metrics associated with long-term customer Co-operators' upgrade to the latest version of Hearsay Sites. Hearsay Sites provides Co-operators, a leading Canadian financial services co-operative, with an online destination for each agency?managed via a centralized platform for brand and regulatory compliance. Each site is highly personalized?serving as a valuable channel to attract new clients, collect information, and take action, effectively opening new opportunities for their advisors. In the six months since unveiling its redesigned Hearsay-powered websites, the firm has received approximately 10,000 client contact forms, with a 17% increase in form submissions over that time period; 60% of these were completed after business hours. Additionally, 40% of client call requests now come from areas of the country where Co-operators' coverage is not as dense as in popular metropolitan centers. This data underscores that Co-operators has been able to extend its reach through a key customer touchpoint?advisors' websites?to engage potential clients in additional geographic areas, at any time of day. "For the last two years, we have been focused on transforming our business to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Our goal has been to enhance the client experience and support our business growth with improved efficiency, productivity, automation, and intuitive digital tools," said Greg Elcich, VP Digital at Co-operators. "Hearsay has been a trusted Sites partner since 2019 and has been consistent in its approach to understand our needs and challenges while offering creative and results-driven solutions to assist in reaching our goals. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Hearsay as we look to understand emerging trends and identify further opportunities for collaboration to deliver best in class digital experiences for clients and prospects." At the forefront Co-operators leaned into digital transformation early on, recognizing a rapidly evolving landscape that changed how clients consume information and conduct business. In addition to improving the client experience, the company ?saw an opportunity for digital tools to improve efficiency, productivity, and automation. This is why it turned to Hearsay, first launching Hearsay Social in 2016. Co-operators advisors leverage Hearsay Social to build and amplify their personal brand on social channels in a compliant fashion; by adding Hearsay Sites in 2019, they gained an online destination where they could seamlessly drive prospects from social posts to their websites. Sites is the only solution that offers the ability to publish content directly to field websites using the same workflow to publish to social networks. The combination of Social and Sites not only scales content publishing and supervision across digital channels, but also ensures a cohesive experience and a consistent brand message. Co-operators successfully upgraded to the new version of the Hearsay Sites product last June to take advantage of additional capabilities, such as client lead forms and fully customizable content components. It also cited enhancements like Google Maps integration and agency-specific dynamic content as benefits of the transition. Along with a fresh look and feel, the Co-operators and Hearsay teams also worked together to enrich the client experience, improve SEO, and showcase each agency and its team within the community for a final product both advisors and clients have embraced. "Co-operators is an innovative financial services firm and a collaborative partner. We are delighted that Hearsay Sites has been so impactful to advisors' business, particularly when it comes to growing their pipeline," said Christine Meginness, VP of Sites at Hearsay. "Co-operators proves that websites continue to surface quality leads, provided the content is engaging, dynamic, and meaningful. We believe that Hearsay Sites will continue to extend Co-operators' web presence in a manner that is consistent with its brand that also resonates with potential clients." To learn more about why customers like Co-operators choose Hearsay to power their websites, go to https://www.hearsaysystems.com/solutions/hearsay-sites. About Hearsay As the trusted global leader in digital client engagement for financial services, Hearsay Systems empowers over 225,000 advisors and agents to proactively guide and capture the last mile of digital communications in a compliant manner. The world's leading financial firms?including BlackRock, Charles Schwab, and New York Life?rely on Hearsay's compliance-driven platform to scale their reach, optimize sales engagements, grow their business and deliver exceptional client service. Hearsay is headquartered in San Francisco, with globally distributed teams in North America, Europe and Asia. Connect on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and the Hearsay blog. About Co-operators Co-operators is a leading Canadian financial services co-operative, offering multi-line insurance and investment products, services, and personalized advice to help Canadians build their financial strength and security. The company has more than $59 billion in assets under administration. Co-operators has been providing trusted guidance to Canadians for the past 79 years. The organization is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. Achieving carbon neutral equivalency in 2020, the organization is committed to net-zero emissions in its operations and investments by 2040 and 2050, respectively. Co-operators is also ranked as a Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizen in Canada. For more information, visit cooperators.ca. 21 february 2024 at 09:15 News published onand distributed by: DT NOVA of District Taco in Northern Virginia Awarded Franchisee of the Year by International Franchise Association PHOENIX, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) today named DT NOVA, owner of District Taco in Northern Virginia, as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year. DT NOVA was honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, Ariz., for being an outstanding franchise establishment owner-operator. "Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about ? providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream," said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. "We are proud to recognize DT NOVA with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact." The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon. Like District Taco founder, Osiris Hoil, whose move from Mexico to the United States in pursuit of his entrepreneurial dreams led to the creation of District Taco, Hicham El Abbassi and Isalmou Boussaa, founders of DT NOVA, epitomize the quintessential American Dream hailing from Morocco and rising from humble beginnings as Five Guys employees to successful franchise owners of 12 stores. Their journey began with dedication and hard work, earning the pair recognition from the Murrell family, Five Guys' owners, who became instrumental in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Transitioning from employees to franchise owners, they faced countless challenges but remained undeterred, transforming struggling ventures into thriving business through their steadfast work ethic and business acumen. A significant turning point occurred in 2022 when the pair ventured into franchising with District Taco, culminating in a successful partnership which expanded their portfolio to 2 open stores and another 43 stores set to open in the next 5 years in the DC metro area and Florida. Their collaboration with District Taco not only demonstrates the duo's entrepreneurial prowess, but also their commitment to shared success, as they actively contribute to the brand's development and growth. Beyond franchise ownership, their involvement in developing training materials for District Taco underscores their dedication to fostering excellence within the industry. Their journey serves as an inspiring model for entrepreneurs, highlighting the power of resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit in achieving entrepreneurial success and shaping the landscape of the ever-changing restaurant industry. "It's my absolute honor to recognize DT NOVA as our esteemed Franchisee of the Year," said Chris Medhurst, President of District Taco. "Hicham and Isalmou, the minds behind DT NOVA, have demonstrated time and again their relentless dedication and incredible entrepreneurial spirit, not only in propelling their own success, but also in significantly contributing to the growth and development of the District Taco brand. We're proud to have them as part of our franchise team, and we look forward to their continued success and innovation in the years to come." There are over 800,000 franchised businesses across the U.S., providing over 8.7 million direct jobs and generating over $850 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities. About District Taco In 2009, two neighbors got together over some homemade chips, salsa and guacamole and decided to launch a District Taco food cart. Since then, District Taco has grown to fifteen locations and employs more than 300 people in and around Washington D.C. and Philadelphia metro areas, with an additional 70 franchise locations in development. Their mission is to serve quality ? Yucatan style ? Mexican food that is fresh, simple and healthful, with a fully customizable menu that includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. At District Taco, food is made fresh daily from the highest quality ingredients. They strive to limit their impact on the environment by serving in environmentally friendly packaging where possible. For more information about District Taco or their menu, and to download the app, visit https://www.districttaco.com/ or follow @districttaco across socials. About the International Franchise Association: Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the approximately 806,270 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.7 million direct jobs, $858.5 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development. SOURCE District Taco 21 february 2024 at 11:45 News published onand distributed by: Restoring CBSA's ability to process ATIP requests electronically OTTAWA, ON, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - Shared Services Canada (SSC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) advised today that they are working to restore CBSA's ability to process Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests electronically. On February 8, 2024, information in 40 CBSA servers was made inaccessible during infrastructure maintenance performed by SSC. SSC and CBSA have since been working together and engaging with experts across the government and private sector vendors of the affected systems to understand the issue and impact and work on solutions. Most of the initially affected databases and applications have been returned to service. Restoration efforts continue on the affected systems, including ATIP. SSC is reviewing change management and system restore procedures to better protect CBSA and GC systems from such incidents going forward. While the CBSA still has access to the original ATIP requests submitted, at this time the Agency cannot access the information it gathered to respond to those requests. The inaccessible information has not been deleted and no security breach has been identified. However, this situation will result in delays in processing these ATIP requests. The CBSA acknowledges that this will be very frustrating for those awaiting a response to their request. Individuals can continue to make new ATIP requests through the online portal . The CBSA processed over 300 requests manually last week while restoration efforts continue on approximately 16,000 pending ATIP requests dating back to 2021. The CBSA expects to be able to process about half of its usual volume of 1,200 weekly ATIP requests this week, and will continue to bolster its capacity to process requests impacted by the current situation. The CBSA has notified the Information Commissioner and the Privacy Commissioner and will continue to keep them fully informed of the situation as it develops. The CBSA is also accelerating the planned implementation of a new ATIP processing system to April 2024, and is increasing its use of automated tools to keep pace with volumes of requests. It will take more time to determine the effectiveness of the restoration efforts. More information will be shared as it becomes available. Contacts Questions related to CBSA ATIP requests should be directed to CBSA Media Relations, while those related to Government of Canada information technology infrastructure should be directed to SSC Media Relations. SOURCE Canada Border Services Agency 21 february 2024 at 12:52 News published onand distributed by: Warrior Met Coal CEO and CFO to Attend 2024 BMO Global Metals, Mining & Critical Minerals Conference Warrior Met Coal, Inc. (NYSE: HCC) ("Warrior" or the "Company") announced today that its Chief Executive Officer Walt Scheller and Chief Financial Officer Dale Boyles will attend the 2024 BMO Global Metals, Mining & Critical Minerals Conference February 26, 2024 ? February 28, 2024. About Warrior Warrior is a U.S.-based, environmentally, and socially minded supplier to the global steel industry. It is dedicated entirely to mining non-thermal met coal used as a critical component of steel production by metal manufacturers in Europe, South America and Asia. Warrior is a large-scale, low-cost producer and exporter of premium quality met coal, also known as hard-coking coal ("HCC"), operating highly efficient longwall operations in its underground mines based in Alabama. The HCC that Warrior produces from the Blue Creek coal seam contains very low sulfur and has strong coking properties. The premium nature of Warrior's HCC makes it ideally suited as a base feed coal for steel makers. For more information, please visit www.warriormetcoal.com. 21 february 2024 at 16:35 News published onand distributed by: Demonstrators hold sign as they protest outside of the Royal Courts of Justice in central London on February 21, 2024, on the second day of an appeal by WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange against his extradition to the United States. DANIEL LEAL / AFP Lawyers for the United States on Wednesday, February 21, urged a UK court to block a last-ditch bid by Julian Assange to appeal his extradition to the country to face espionage charges. Washington indicted the WikiLeaks founder multiple times between 2018 and 2020 over its publication of hundreds of thousands of secret military and diplomatic files on the US-led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The long-running legal saga in Britain's courts is now nearing a conclusion after Assange lost successive rulings in recent years. If he fails with this latest appeal bid, he could be extradited within weeks. On the second of two days of evidence before two High Court judges, Clair Dobbin, a lawyer for the US government, summarized its various arguments for blocking another appeal. She argued that Assange had "solicited" secret US military and diplomatic files and, in publishing them "indiscriminately" without redactions, that his actions were "unprecedented" and not journalism. "It's these facts that distinguish him not his political opinions," she said. "The evidence shows that from the time the appellant started WikiLeaks (...) he sought to recruit individuals with access to classified information," Dobbin added. "He worked with hackers." Assange was absent from the court for the two-day session and did not follow the proceedings via video due to illness, his lawyer told the judges Tuesday. Dozens of his supporters massed outside on both days, demanding that the judges halt his extradition. A person wearing a costume holds a sign, as supporters of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange protest outside the High Court, on the day Assange appeals against his extradition to the United States, in London, England, on February 21, 2024. TOBY MELVILLE / REUTERS 'Errors of law' The Australian's lawyers had argued Tuesday that previous UK legal decisions against him contained "errors of law." They said the US charges were "political" and he was being prosecuted "for engaging in ordinary journalistic practice of obtaining and publishing classified information." Assange's lawyers also argued that the decades-long prison sentence he faces was "disproportionate," accusing Washington of acting in "bad faith" and contravening the extradition treaty with Britain. US President Joe Biden has faced domestic and international pressure to drop the 18-count indictment against Assange in a Virginia federal court filed under his predecessor Donald Trump. Major media organizations, press freedom advocates and the Australian Parliament have all denounced the prosecution under the 1917 Espionage Act, which has never been used over the publishing of classified information. Read more Subscribers only Behind whistleblower Julian Assange, a united Australia But Dobbin, the lawyer for the US, noted that the prosecution had continued under two different presidential administrations because "it is based on law and evidence, not political inspiration." "This wasn't a slip or an error, this was the publication of a vast amount of material unredacted," she said, adding it had "profound consequences" for both the US and those whose names were disclosed. Lengthy legal fight The hearing is likely Assange's last chance to fight extradition in Britain's courts after a years-long battle. The judges will deliver their decision on whether to grant him another full appeal trial at a date yet to be announced. If they rule against him, he will have exhausted his UK legal options. However, his wife Stella Assange has said he would then ask the European Court of Human Rights to temporarily halt the extradition, arguing that he would die if extradited. This would need to happen within 14 days of losing the appeal bid, according to his lawyers. Read more Putting an end to the persecution of Julian Assange The couple who have two children together met while Assange was holed up in Ecuador's London embassy for seven years from 2011. He had fled there to avoid extradition to Sweden, where he faced accusations of sexual assault that were later dropped. He was arrested by UK police in 2019. A UK district judge previously blocked his extradition on the grounds he would likely kill himself in US custody. But the High Court reversed the decision on appeal in 2021 after Washington vowed not to imprison him in its most extreme prison, "ADX Florence." It also pledged not to subject him to the harsh regime known as Special Administrative Measures and eventually allow him to be transferred to Australia. In March 2022, the UK's Supreme Court refused permission to appeal there, arguing that Assange had failed to "raise an arguable point of law." Months later, then home secretary Priti Patel formally signed off on his extradition. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks during a Fox News Channel town hall Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in Greenville, SC, with moderator Laura Ingraham. CHRIS CARLSON / AP The former US president and current frontrunner for the 2024 nomination Donald Trump again refused to criticize Russian leader Vladimir Putin over Navalny's unexplained death, despite being offered the chance during a town hall meeting in South Carolina on Tuesday, February 20. Navalny died suddenly at age 47 in an Arctic prison, shocking Russia's exiled opposition as well as the West, where leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have blamed the Kremlin. In the hour-long appearance broadcast on Fox News, Trump railed against the $355 million fine meted out to him in a New York fraud trial, saying, "It's a form of Navalny... It is a form of communism or fascism," he added. Despite prodding from host Laura Ingraham, Trump did not mention Putin when asked about Navalny, though he lamented "a very sad situation." "He was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away, and frankly, probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country." But, Trump added: "It's happening in our country, too. We are turning into a communist country in many ways. I have eight or nine trials all because of the fact that... I'm in politics," he said "If I were losing in the polls, they wouldn't even be talking about me and I wouldn't have had any legal fees," he alleged. In addition to the civil fraud case in New York, Trump faces 91 criminal counts, including charges related to alleged electoral interference in the 2020 election, which he lost to Joe Biden. He has seized on his legal woes as a way to fire up supporters, claiming court cases are "just a way of hurting me in the election." Trump has long soft-pedaled on Russia, at times expressing open admiration for Putin, whom he has called a "genius." Earlier this month he effectively killed a bipartisan bill that would have sent billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine after telling congressional Republicans to vote the legislation down. He also recently stunned Western allies after saying he would "encourage" Russia to attack members of the NATO military alliance who had not met their financial obligations. OZARK A $741,190 grant received from the United State Department of Agriculture-Rural Development agency to bring technology to health science teachers, students, and mental health staff in the school system is a game changer, said Dale County Schools Superintendent Ben Baker. USDA-RD Alabama State Director Nivory Gordon Jr., and USDA-RD Alabama and Mississippi Telecommunications General Field Representative Betty Liddell met with Baker, DCS Career Tech Director Lisa Welch, Dale County Commission Chairman Steve McKinnon, Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Director Holle Smith and Ozark Mayor at the county government building to present the Distance Learning and Technology Grant. The funding from USDA-RD will benefit health technology and telehealth in Dale County through the Healthy, Educated Alabama: Resilience through Technology Project, which focuses on bringing technology to health science teachers, students, and mental health staff. Additional program components include career training in telemedicine equipment. The Dale County Schools System is the shining star in Dale County, said Dale County Commission Chairman Steve McKinnon, congratulating Baker. We are proud of the relationship we, as the county governing body, have with the schools and have supported them any way we can. Baker said the funding will improve overall healthcare and prepare students for future careers. Theyll have this technology in their hands that is used in our hospitals, and so theyll be able to learn those skills on what is actually being used in the hospitals, he said. Gordon said the funding is important for rural communities that sometimes lack resources for mental healthcare. A lot of disparities are in rural communities because rural communities, sometimes, dont have the resources to keep the state-of-the-art facilities open, he said. Were here to provide financial assistance to help communities to rebuild their healthcare systems. Were excited for the opportunity this is going to create not only for our students but also for our employees, Baker said, explaining that the telemedicine project with an emphasis on bringing mental and other health care to the school systems students, staff and the Dale County community, as a whole, is much appreciated. The intent of the grant is to obtain live interactive video equipment that will make mental health care and education available across the district, he said. It includes units for use in all schools which include the three high schools that will provide training for career and technical education health science students in the use of telemedical equipment, Baker said. It will make medical treatment available across the district, allowing nurses and health care personnel to provide treatment, diagnose illnesses, connect with hospitals and doctors offices, he added. The outcome will be improved student access to critical medical care services. A MOTORIST who was driving at 154km/h on the motorway outside Nenagh has been fined for careless driving by Judge Elizabeth MacGrath at Nenagh District Court. The speed limit was 120km/h, the court heard. Patrick McCarthy of 29 Sharwood Estate, Newcastle West, county Limerick, had originally been charged with dangerous driving, but this was reduced to careless driving by Judge MacGrath after the court heard that the conditions on the day had been dry and the lighting good. Mr McCarthy pleaded to the offence at Annaholty, Birdhill, on August 25, 2019. READ MORE: Opposition say water treatment plant would ruin cliff walk The court heard Mr McCarthy had 11 previous convictions under the Road Traffic Act. His solicitor, Johnny Spencer, told the court that Mr McCarthy was 26 years old and was married with three children, one of whom needed treatment at Crumlin Children's Hospital. Judge MacGrath fined Mr McCarthy 200 and warned him that he needed to be careful. Recognizance were set in Mr McCarthys own bond of 250. CITY PLANNERS have cleared the way for a new coffee shop at a shopping centre on the northside. Better Value Unlimited Company, which shares a head office address with Dunnes Stores, had applied to Limerick City and County Council to develop at Jetland Shopping Centre. Dunnes is the anchor tenant at the centre, located near TUS Gaelic Grounds. According to the planning application, two units at the shopping centre will merge into one to form a 525 square metre restaurant and cafe unit, with an external seating area. Another unit in the shopping centre will change to an off-licence. READ MORE: Milford Care Centre to open facility in Limerick town Council planners granted the development permission subject to a number of conditions, including that the outlets operating hours reflect the opening times of the centre. Local Fine Gael councillor Olivia OSullivan said: While we are well-served by our hotels out here, and have many fast food or takeaway outlets, there is a lack of cafe-restaurants in comparison to other sides of the city. She welcomed the opening of the new Applegreen outlet in Clondrinagh -which brings with it a branch of M&S Food - but added there are more opportunities for a growing population. Micheal Martin has agreed with other leaders that Alexei Navalny was killed by the Russian state as the Russian ambassador of Ireland gets summoned by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The Tanaiste said Mr Navalnys death reflects a very repressive regime that shuts down any form of internal dissent, and freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. We want to formally communicate that view shared by the vast majority of the Irish people. We already have subjected Russia and Russian leadership to the most expensive and hard-hitting sanctions in European history, he said this morning on RTE's Morning Ireland. This comes as the Department of Foreign Affairs summoned Yuri Filatov, the Russian ambassador to Ireland, yesterday to express outrage at the death of opposition figure, Alexei Navalny. Navalny died while being held in a jail near the Arctic Circle at the age of 47. The opposition leader had been sentenced to 19 years in jail under a special regime. Navalnys wife, Yulia, has condemned Putin for the death of her husband in a video announcement. Four days after Navalnys death, she said: I shouldnt have recorded this video. There should be another person in my place, but this person was killed by Vladimir Putin. Putin killed the father of my children, Putin took away the most precious thing I had, the closest and most beloved person - but Putin also took Navalny from you. The family of former teacher Enoch Burke has called the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth "disgraceful" following a speaking event in Galway yesterday (February 21). Minister Roderic O'Gorman was leaving a public referendum event at the University of Galway when he was ambushed by members of the family, with video of the exchange posted on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday evening. In the clip, a woman believed to be Burke's mother, Martina, can be heard saying: "Enoch Burke is in Mountjoy Prison. What about equality? Is there equality for Enoch Burke? For his religious belief? "You're a disgrace, you're a disgrace. Have you any respect? "You'll stand before God. Enoch Burke in prison because he won't call a man a woman. What a disgrace to our nation." Another woman can be heard echoing the questions, and at one point stated: "You are a disgusting disgrace." She can also be heard stating: "[Enoch] won't accept transgenderism, Roderic. That is your agenda. Have you anything to say? Have you anything to say? Two hundred and seventy four days in Mountjoy Prison. Shame upon you." Enoch Burke was jailed last year over his refusal to comply with a permanent injunction to stay away from Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath. The former teacher came to prominence due to his stance on transgenderism and his refusal to call a student by a preferred pronoun. He can be released from prison at any time by purging his contempt. Martina Burke, who spoke directly to the camera after Minister O'Gorman's exit, said, "I asked Roderic tonight had he anything to say about Enoch Burke, the young school teacher now almost three hundred days languishing in Mountjoy. Roderic is tight-lipped, he has absolutely nothing to say." According to her, Minister O'Gorman is "not interested in equality, he's only interested in pushing an agenda". She said, "There is no equality for Enoch Burke. When I ask [the minister] that he sneers, there is no equality for a Christian. There is a disdain, there is a hatred. "We asked Roderic tonight and we didn't get a whiff, a peep out of him. He was taken into his car and whisked away. It's a shame and it's a disgrace that we the parents of Ireland have this man, we tolerate this man as Minister for Children. It's an absolute disgrace." Burke's mother also criticised the minister for encouraging people to vote to "remove the word mother" from the Irish Constitution. The upcoming referendums on family and care will take place on March 8 this year. TWO MEN who tragically lost their lives in a collision in Limerick have been named locally. Darragh Dullea, aged 20, from Clonakilty, Cork and Cillian Kirwan, aged 19, from Piltown, Kilkenny, were killed in the incident on the N69 on Tuesday evening. According to gardai the car collided with a wall. Two other young men in the car were taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment for non-life threatening injuries. All four men were second year students in Agricultural Mechanisation at Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry. The course is run jointly by Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). Students from the college laid flowers near the scene of the single-car collision at Ballyengland, near Askeaton on Wednesday. TUS are currently providing counselling services for students and staff at the college to help them with their loss. Its tragic and its shocking. Were numb here in the college this morning and their fellow students are numb, said Derek ODonoghue, principal of Salesian Agricultural College. Its tragic, two young lives lost Its hard putting words on it, to be quite honest. We hear it every weekend Its only when it comes onto your own doorstep, that it really hits home and unfortunately, we lost two young lives last night, Mr ODonoghue added. The bodies of the deceased were removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Limerick, where a post-mortem will take place in due course. The fire service was alerted just after 7:30pm to the incident which occurred in the townland of Ballyengland Lower, around two kilometres outside Askeaton on the Limerick side of the town. Gardai, the National Ambulance Service and four units of the fire service responded - including two units each from Foynes and Rathkeale. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area at the time, are asked to make this footage available to gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Askeaton garda station 061 601630 or any garda station. A renovated former schoolhouse in west Cork is the first property through to the final of RTE's Home of the Year 2024. USE ARROWS OR NEXT BUTTON TO SEE MORE PICTURES The tenth series of the popular show returned to our television screens on Tuesday night with three properties being put under the microscope - in Clare, Dublin and west Cork. Making the difficult decisions again this year are the judging panel which is made up of architects Hugh Wallace and Amanda Bone and interior designer Sara Cosgrove. The first home through to the final is a former schoolhouse in west Cork which was built more than 100 years ago. Its 'magical' living space and art captivated the judges who awarded it 27 marks out of a possible 30 Artist Ian Humphreys and his wife Sarah share their home, which they purchased in 2019, with their son Jo Jo. Hugh Wallace, a judge for all 10 series of Home of the Year, told viewers the property was effortless and full of personality while Amanda Bone, who gave the home a perfect score of ten, was taken by Ian's favourite spot - his artist's studio. I am just blown away. I think its amazing Ill stop now before I start crying, she said. All three judges told viewers they were impressed by the art and up-cycled furniture that can be found throughout the 120-year-old property. It feels of the locality, West Cork bohemian. Its got its own culture and vibe and I think this house reflects that beautifully," said Sara Cosgrove. View this post on Instagram A post shared by HomeoftheYear Ireland (@rtehomeoftheyear) The new series will also feature re-imagined semi-detached homes, renovation projects, architectural homes, restored period homes and new builds in locations in Antrim, Cork, Derry, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Louth, Mayo, Offaly, Waterford and Wicklow. Home of the Year is broadcast on RTE One television and the RTE Player at 8.30pm on Tuesdays. Mumbai/New Delhi: Owners of old and polluting automobiles may get additional benefits to scrap them in the near future, two people familiar with the matter said, with the government reviewing the existing scrappage policy that has found few takers so far. The road transport ministry is discussing additional benefits to encourage scrapping, and the prime ministers office (PMO) will greenlight the final policy, the people cited above said on condition of anonymity. The policy may be rolled out by the new government that takes office after the next general elections. The scrappage policy floated in 2021 had proposed incentives to be given by manufacturers and state governments. The government had estimated that scrapping will attract investments of around 10,000 crore and create 35,000 jobs, something that failed to materialize as owners chose to continue to sell old vehicles in rural areas instead. The reason for the failure of this scheme is lack of incentives," said a government official, one of the two people cited above. "So, the plan is that both the government and automobile manufacturers offer incentives to the consumersgovernment incentives may come in the form of taxes, and auto manufacturers incentive could come in the form of discounts on the price of the vehicle," the official added. Countries like the US, the UK, China, Canada and Germany offer a mix of incentives by the government and automakers to encourage scrapping. One of the most successful scrappage programmes in recent times was 'cash for clunkers' in the US, when financial incentives were offered to scrap old vehicles and purchase new ones, in an attempt to revive the ailing automobile industry. Under the 2021 policy, the scrap value for the old vehicle would be 4-6% of the ex-showroom price of a new vehicle, and authorized scrapping centres would provide owners with a scrapping certificate. The road ministry had said it would promote setting up of automated fitness centres for commercial vehicles on a public-private partnership model. Several automakers had entered vehicle scrappage in recent years through tie-ups or their group companies. These include Tata Motors Rewire, Mahindra Cero and Maruti Suzuki Toyotsu. However, consumer response has been tepid, and utilization levels at most of these centres have remained below 20%, an industry executive said on condition of anonymity. Vehicle owners see no benefit in scrapping given the limited financial benefit, the executive added. A second executive said the lack of routine vehicle fitness testing was a reason for low scrappage in India. Some experts, however, feel getting polluting vehicles out of cities, where air quality frequently hits hazardous levels, is still a victory, regardless of where those vehicles end up. In addition to focusing on scrappage, the government may also focus on getting polluting cars off the roads in major cities. It has worked brilliantly in the Delhi-NCR region," Gaurav Vangaal, associate director at S&P Global Mobility. Even when these vehicles don't get scrapped and are resold in rural areas, it helps in getting mobility to these regions at an affordable cost, while taking care of pollution in the city centres, he said. We must also not forget that a vehicle generates the bulk of its emissions during its manufacturing and this gets saved when it is resold," Vangaal said. However, vehicles must be mandatorily scrapped after 20-25 years of operation at maximum, even in rural areas, he added. Parul University has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the exclusive institution in Western India to be a part of the National Taskforce for an INDIA-EMS Research Project on Emergency Medicine. The project, aimed at developing a High-Quality Patient-Centric Integrated Model for Emergency Care Systems in selected districts of India, has secured a substantial funding grant of 4.7 Crores from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR). The Parul Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, recognized among the top 5 national task forces, is spearheading this initiative to advance medical excellence and enhance quality measures in alignment with state and national objectives. The INDIA-EMS project, an implementation research initiative funded by the ICMR, is dedicated to improving the emergency medical system in India. With a focus on setting effective benchmarks in global healthcare, the project covers a wide spectrum of emergency conditions, including stroke, myocardial infarction, trauma, snake bites and poisoning, burns, neonatal, and maternal care. The inclusion of various districts in India, such as Ludhiana, Vidisha, Puri, Puducherry, and Vadodara, positions Parul University as the sole institution in the western region participating in this crucial national task force project. Recognizing the critical role of time in emergency situations, the project aims to reduce time barriers by implementing improved interventions. Another key objective is to bring together healthcare professionals, hospitals, and state officials to establish a more functional healthcare system, ultimately helping India set a benchmark in the field of medicine. Parul University has assembled a multidisciplinary team of investigators, led by Dr. Shreyas Patel as Principal Investigator, Dr. Hemantkumar Patadia as Joint Principal Investigator, and co-Investigators including Dr. Amit P. Ganatra, Dr. A K Saxena, Dr. Shaily Surti, Asst Prof Ankita Priyadarshini, and Asst Prof Prachi Patel. Additionally, the team includes research experts and state officials, such as Dr. Minaxi Chauhan (CDHO, Vadodara) and Dr. Prakash K Suthar (Nodal officer - NCD division, Govt of Gujarat). This groundbreaking initiative underscores Parul University's commitment to robust research policies, facilitating impactful contributions to both the academic knowledge bank and the discovery of innovative solutions that enhance the welfare of communities. To know more visit Parul University 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. 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: Ananya Birla-led Svatantra Microfin Pvt. Ltd, Indias second largest microlender, is set to raise 2,000 crore from private equity firms Advent International and Multiples Private Equity, a person aware of the deal said. The Mumbai-based microfinance institution (MFI)will use the funds to expand and consolidate its growth, the person added, requesting anonymity. Queries sent to Svatantra, and Multiples remained unanswered, while Advent declined to comment on the development The deal follows Svatantras acquisition of Flipkart co-founder Sachin Bansals Chaitanya Microfin Pvt. Ltd in October last year. Svatantra acquired the Bengaluru-based Chaitanya for 1,479 crore in a fully equity-funded deal, after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) denied a universal banking licence to the latter. The Svatantra-Chaitanya deal gave the combined entity assets under management (AUM) of more than 12,874 crore as on 30 June 2023, according to a Crisil credit rating report, making it Indias second largest NBFC-MFI after Credit Access Grameen. Svatantra typically gives out loans for agriculture and allied activities in 19 states across almost 336 districts. Svatantra has been the primary area of focus for 29-year-old Ananya Birla, daughter of industrialist and Aditya Birla Group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, since it was incorporated in 2012. In recent years, the Birla scion and her brother Aryaman Vikram Birla have been groomed for director roles in Birla group companies. In January 2023, the two were appointed as directors on the board of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail. In February, they were also inducted on the board of Grasim Industries. Svantantra reported a total income of 1,396 crore and profit after tax of 130 crore in FY23, per data from Crisil. In FY22, total income was 831 crore and profit, 47 crore. In line with revision in regulatory framework, the company has enhanced its risk-based pricing by increasing its yields by around 150 to 200 bps in fiscal 2023 (FY23). The benefit of these higher yields is expected flow-in towards bottom line with return on managed assets (RoMA) expected to improve to over 3% by the end of fiscal 2024 (FY24)," the Crisil report dated 5 October 2023 said. Bps is short for basis points; a basis point is one-hundredth of a percentage point. In March 2022, RBI removed the cap on pricing of small loans given by NBFC-MFIs, which brought them on par with other lenders and allowed them to charge risk premiums based on borrower profiles. This created a level playing field for the sector, Mint reported at the time. So far, the company has cumulatively received over 900 crore of capital from the shareholders. These infusions have been made through Svatantra Holdings... This has enabled a gradual build up in networth to 1,230 crore (including compulsorily convertible preference shares) as of 30 June 2023," the Crisil report added. The Aditya Birla Group had committed a fund infusion of 100 crore in FY24, Crisil said. Microfinance loans grew 22% during FY23 with the gross loan portfolio outstanding of 3.48 trillion as on 31 March 2023, a report by Microfinance Institutions Network said. FORT NOVOSEL-An update on the curriculum at and facilities for the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Career College at Fort Novosel was given to those attending the February meeting of the Military Officers Association of America. Chief Warrant Officer 5 Stephen Napoli, who serves as deputy commandant at the career college, outlined the development of curriculum to enhance the professional military education of all warrant officers in a military environment. Napoli also outlined the expansion of the college facilities on the post. MOAA has a national membership of approximately 350,000 members and is the nations largest and most influential association of military officers. It is an advocate of a strong national defense and represents the interests of military officers and their families at every stage of their careers. NEW DELHI : The Tamil Nadu government told the Supreme Court that Vedanta Ltds Sterlite Copper plant should not be considered a national asset or deemed necessary to reopen to fulfill the countrys copper demand. The state instead pointed to Adani Groups forthcoming copper smelter plant in Gujarat as capable of fulfilling Indias copper demand. Since the Sterlite Copper plant in Tamil Nadus Thoothukudi city was shut in 2018 following violent protests, India has transitioned from being a net exporter to a net importer of copper. Prior to that, the plant contributed to nearly 40% of Indias copper demand. Its closure also impacted domestic fertilizer and chemical industries, leading to increased reliance on imports for key raw materials. The Tamil Nadu government opposed granting Vedanta any opportunity to reopen its plant in Thoothukudi, alleging that the company was a repeat offender and polluter. The state argued there had been no loss to the regional economy due to the closure of the plant, pointing out that Thoothukudi is emerging as a new hub for the automobile industry. The local population also does not want the plant to reopen, Tamil Nadu governments legal representatives told the Supreme Court. These remarks were made on Wednesday during Vedantas appeal against the closure of the plant by the Tamil Nadu government, before a 3-judge bench led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. The state government also objected to the Supreme Courts suggestion for a committee to examine prospects for reviving the closed Vedanta plant. Senior lawyer C. S. Vaidyanathan, representing the Tamil Nadu government, argued that the Madras High Court had already ruled to keep the Vedanta plant shut after considering various expert committees and suggestions. He stressed that only the Supreme Court could overturn the High Courts verdict through its order, and not through an expert committee report. In contrast, Vedanta submitted a note to the apex court expressing its agreement with the suggestion for forming a committee to look into its Thoothukudi plants future. The company proposed that the committee include representatives from the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change, the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, the Central Pollution Control Board, the Indian Institute of Technology, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, a representative from Vedanta, and three independent experts. Additionally, Vedanta recommended that a retired judge of the Supreme Court chair the committee, also suggesting that the committee submit its report in a month. According to Vedanta, the committee should provide recommendations and suggest conditions for the resumption of operations at its copper smelter plant. The committee may also propose additional environmental safeguards if necessary, it said. Vedanta has expressed willingness to cover the expenses likely to be incurred by the committee and to cooperate in implementing any orders from the Supreme Court. The company has requested that the case be adjourned until the committees report is presented to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court, however, made it clear that it couldnt straightaway allow Vedanta to operate the plant without thorough inspection, as it has a responsibility to the people of the region, who need protection in any foreseeable situation that may arise after the immediate opening of the plant. The court suggested that Vedanta may conduct refurbishment of the closed plant subject to the conditions imposed by the committee for compliance with environmental rules for the copper smelter industry. The hearing in the case is likely to continue tomorrow. Ever since the Tamil Nadu government sealed the Sterlite Copper plant in 2018 after seeking advice from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, Vedanta has been striving to have it reopened. Trouble for the plant began with opposition from local fishermen concerned about pollution affecting their livelihoods. Legal battles ensued, including a closure order from the Madras High Court in 2010, which was later stayed by the Supreme Court. The company faced further challenges after a sulfur dioxide leak in 2013 and violent protests in 2018, leading to the plants closure by the Tamil Nadu government. In 2020, Vedanta Group announced that the Thoothukudi plant was up for sale. The Gautam Adani-led Adani Group is building a single-location copper manufacturing plant at Mundra in Gujarat. The $1.2-billion facility will start its first phase of operations by the end of March, and is expected to achieve full-scale 1-million tonne capacity by the end of FY29. The Adani plant is likely to reduce the countrys dependence on imports. VEDANTA 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! Large-cap IT services firm Wipro Ltd on Wednesday disclosed a new deal with US chipmaker, Intel Foundry. The deal with the chip development division of Intel will further see Wipro engineers work on Intels latest 18A chip node that will be used in cutting-edge consumer electronics devices next year onward. Though Wipro did not disclose the exact size of the deal, two senior industry consultants said under conditions of anonymity that the deal with Intel Foundry is expected to be one of Wipros largest deal signings in the past three years. Mint could not independently confirm the size of the deal. Emails sent to Wipro and Intel Foundry did not immediately receive responses. In an exchange filing, Wipro said that its deal with Intel will cater to chip designs for clients across automotive, industrial and telecommunications verticals, and be used for generative AI-driven designs". The collaborative chip design project is a part of Wipros $1-billion ai360 ecosystem of services, with which the IT services firm will seek to target new clients for AI-first services, going forward. Atul Kapur, vice-president and business head for hi-tech at Wipro, said in a statement that the partnership with Intel Foundry marks a significant step towards becoming a part of the semiconductor industry" for the company. This supports chip supply and chip manufacturing. We will deliver silicon devices to our clients with proven industry-standard flows and process technologies from Intel Foundry. We will be targeting new startup markets, especially in the generative AI space, helping our clients further shorten the time to market," he said. The 18A node is significant, since this denotes the latest technology from Intels chips, which Wipro engineers will also help manufacture and custom-design. As part of the deal, Wipro will take custom chip designs from clients, and use Intels process nodes to let businesses get access to required chips. Custom chip designs are key to building fully customized processors for specific marketsbuilt to need in terms of efficiency and performance. On 4 December, Gartner projected a 16.8% annualized revenue growth from the semiconductor industry in which custom chip design is expected to play a key role. The new deal is expected to be of significance to Wipro, the two consultants cited above said. Even as industry body Nasscom projected cumulative industry revenue to cross $250 billion this year, Wipro stares at a decline of up to 4.1% in operating revenue for this year. Wipros former head of large deals, Stephanie Trautman, also stepped down from the company on 31 December. On 11 December, Mint reported that in more than the past three years, Wipro had only won a single mega deal valued at $700 millionwith German retailer Metro AG. Typically, mega deals are valued at $1 billion and above, and are seen as key to the overall health of IT services firms. WIPRO 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! Prices are falling in mainland China. Thats a boon for people living in Hong Kong, but a big problem for the citys businesses. Consumer prices in China fell 0.8% in January compared with a year earlier, the countrys biggest deflation reading in more than a decade. That is a sign of the tepid state of the worlds second-largest economy, where a sputtering recovery has knocked confidence and encouraged Beijing to censor some economic research. Hong Kong residents are increasingly hopping across the border to the city of Shenzhen, where they load up on frozen food and cheap furniture at big-box stores like Costco and Sams Club. Hong Kong business owners, unable to compete with their Chinese counterparts on price, are feeling the squeeze. Walking on the streets these days, youll feel that Hong Kong retailers are in big trouble," said the citys former financial secretary, John Tsang, in a recent social-media post. View Full Image Graphic: WSJ The pain being felt by businesses in Hong Kong offers a partial answer to a question that has been debated by economists for much of the past year: How will deflation in China impact the rest of the world? Chinese export prices have dropped steadily since late 2022 and were 8.4% lower in December than they were a year earlier, according to customs data. Economists think thats probably a good thing for Europe and the U.S., where central banks have been forced to embark on an aggressive series of interest-rate increases to keep rising prices in check. But the impact on smaller countries could be more troublesome. China is the biggest trading partner for multiple countries across the world, and is particularly influential for countries in Asia. The risk for these countries is that Chinese companies dump their goods overseas in response to weak demand at home. They can also undercut manufacturers in countries like Vietnam and Malaysia, which have slowly been muscling in on Chinas status as the worlds factory. This Hong Kong story is applicable to countries that are near the neighborhood of China because the supply chain is much smaller," said William Lee, chief economist at the Milken Institute, an economic think tank. The shorter supply chain for Chinas trade with its neighbors means changes in price pass through more directly, rather than being swallowed up by the various companies that get involved in shipping goods over longer distances. Chinas neighbors in East Asia dont have the option to impose protectionist policies against it, analysts at Citigroup wrote in a January note. China is simply too big a force in global trade for them to risk its ire. View Full Image Graphic: WSJ But if it is hard for Chinas neighbors to push back against falling prices, it is even tougher for Hong Kongwhich is run by a pro-Beijing government that wants closer integration with the superpower next door. Hong Kong residents are partly benefiting from the strength of the U.S. dollar. The Hong Kong dollar is pegged to the U.S. dollar, and the citys de facto central bank has copied the Federal Reserves historic series of interest-rate increases over the past two years. Chinas central bank has gone in the opposite direction, cutting rates in an attempt to boost the moribund economy. Since the end of 2021, the Chinese yuan has lost more than 11% of its value against the Hong Kong dollar. Counting the cost Hong Kongs economy grew 3.2% last year, clawing back some lost ground after a 3.7% contraction in 2022. But the numbers mask a host of difficult problems, including an exit of foreign businesses, a prolonged slump in the real-estate sector and the lowest fertility rate in the world. The apparent embrace of what mainland China had to offer would have appeared unthinkable five years ago, when the city was swept up in massive antigovernment protests. Back then, shoppers and diners looked up color-coded maps to help them identify businesses that shared their political stance to patronizeand avoided those perceived as having links to mainland China. But years spentcooped up in Hong Kongduring the pandemic and penny-pinching by anxious residents has helped boost Shenzhens appeal. Were seeing a readjustment of our way of life that suggests economic interdependency between Hong Kong and Shenzhen," said Edmund Cheng, a political sociology professor at the City University of Hong Kong. Last year, Hong Kong residents made more than 50 million trips up north following the lifting of all pandemic-related travel restrictions in February, according to Hong Kong Immigration Department data. Thats still below prepandemic levels, but their spending power helped boost retail sales in Shenzhen, which rose by 7.8% in 2023, recording one of the biggest jumps at any mainland city last year. In a survey by a business lobby last year, just 37% of Hong Kong businesses said they expected revenue to grow in 2024. Less than a third thought they were on track to beat prepandemic levels. Korsy Lee, 39, is one of many Hong Kong residents who make a regular pilgrimage to Shenzhenand earns a profit from it. He began shuttling goods back from Shenzhen last August as a side hustle, and now goes there four times a week, loading up his Toyota minivan with frozen hamburgers, fish maw soup, Panasonic dishwashing machines and even toilet-paper rolls. He takes orders from customers and charges a flat fee. Eighty percent of my customers are housewives who want to make every penny count," he said. Write to Clarence Leong at clarence.leong@wsj.com The poll bungle has been sounded, as India prepares to witness yet another dance of democracy during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. The use of deepfakes has gained prominence as a method to shape or sway the opinions of voters right ahead of crucial elections. While the potential misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in election campaigns raises concerns about the integrity of democratic processes, it brings to life the influence evolving technology has made on something as pivotal as elections in a democratic government. Does deepfakes created by AI take away the iota of choice from the voters of a nation? On 30 November 2023, as voters queued up to cast their votes in Telangana, a viral video appeared on their Whatsapp chats. A video that reportedly showed then incumbent Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao calling on people to vote in favour of the Congress. The video was fake. Congress did win the Telangana Assembly elections and Revanth Reddy took over as Chief Minister of the youngest state of India. The strategically timed deployment of deepfakes was a marker of the flood of manipulated media that marred a series of elections in Indias states in recent months, and thats now threatening to fundamentally shape the countrys coming general elections. According to an Al Jazeera report, teams across Indias political parties, including Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress, are deploying deepfakes to influence voters. In recent months, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), which governs Tamil Nadu, has used AI to resurrect its iconic leader M Karunanidhi from the dead, using lifelike videos of the former movie writer and veteran politician at campaign events. Between March and May, Indias nearly one billion voters will pick their next national government in the worlds, and historys, biggest elections. Let's take a look at how and why political parties are grasping at this technological marvel for their gains. Manufacturing Consent Noam Chomsky in his magnum opus had pointed out how media, especially in the US "are effective and powerful ideological institutions that carry out a system-supportive propaganda function, by reliance on market forces, internalized assumptions, and self-censorship, and without overt coercion", by means of the propaganda model of communication. While AI failed to gain prominence in Chomsky's book, we cannot really differentiate between the both, considering the rapid technological evolution that the world has witnessed. Deepfakes Used Since 2014 The BJP has been at the forefront of using illusions for campaigning. As far back as 2012, the party used 3D hologram projections of Modi so that he could simultaneously campaign" in dozens of places at the same time. The strategy was deployed widely during the 2014 general elections that brought Modi to power. In February 2020, Manoj Tiwari, a BJP MP, became among the worlds first to use deepfakes for campaigning. In three videos, Tiwari addressed voters in Delhi ahead of the capitals legislative assembly elections in Hindi, Haryanvi and English reaching three distinct audiences in the multicultural city. Only the Hindi video was authentic: The other two were deepfakes, where AI was used to generate his voice and words and alter his expressions and lip movement to make it almost impossible to detect, just on viewing, that they were not genuine. Now, political observers have said that the 2024 elections could turbocharge the use of deepfakes even further. Commoners in Election Campaign Deepfakes According to an Al Jazeera report, 30-year-old Divyendra Singh Jadoun runs an AI startup, The Indian Deepfaker. Launched in October 2020, his company cloned the voice of Rajasthan states Congress chief ministerial candidate Ashok Gehlot for his team to send personalised messages on WhatsApp, addressing each voter by their name, during November Rajasthan Assembly elections. During the election campaigns for the state legislatures of Madhya Pradesh in central India and Rajasthan in the west last November, police registered multiple cases for deepfake videos targeting senior politicians including Modi, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Kailash Vijayvargia (all BJP) and Kamal Nath (Congress). The deepfake content production is often outsourced to private consulting firms, which rely on social media networks for distribution, spearheaded by WhatsApp. How AI is Shaping Opinion of Voters? According to a campaign manager who talked to Al Jazeera, Manipulating voters by AI is not being considered a sin by any party," they added. It is just a part of the campaign strategy." AI-manipulated audios are particularly valuable tools in smaller constituencies, targeting candidates with forged call recordings about arranging black money for elections or threatening someone to buy votes," the consultant said, whose own candidate was targeted with one such recording. The recordings are generally masked with candidates voices to cast them as evidence of corruption. India has 760 million internet users more than 50 percent of the population behind only China. 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 cargo ship is at risk of sinking in the Gulf of Aden after being hit by Yemen-based Houthis in the most significant strike since the Iran-backed group started launching attacks last fall in a crucial shipping lane to disrupt global commerce. The increasingly audacious attacks come despite weeks of U.S. airstrikes and highlight the challenges of deterring the group, which is seeking to transform itself from a marginal player among Iran-aligned forces into one of the Middle Easts most formidable militant groups. Persistent Houthi strikes are raising new questions for the Biden administration about how to bring the attacks to a halt and prevent the continuing war in the Gaza Strip from fueling a more destabilizing regional conflict. The U.S.-led response took another hit on Sunday when a Houthi attack crippled the U.K.-owned bulk carrier Rubymar in the Red Sea, forcing the crew to abandon ship amid fears it could sink, British digital solutions company Vanguard Tech said. Ellie Shafik, head of maritime intelligence at Vanguard Tech, said the vessel appeared unlikely to be recovered. If the Rubymar sank, it would most probably drive even more caution by multiple stakeholders" operating around Yemen, said Ami Daniel, chief executive of London-based maritime artificial-intelligence company Windward. Therefore, it is likely that the drop in trades in the area will further escalate." On Tuesday, the Houthis claimed another string of attacks, including drone strikes on American warships in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, and launches of naval missiles at what it said was an Israeli vessel as well as targets in Southern Israel. The operations were in response to aggression and siege [on the Palestinians] and in response to the American-British aggression against our country," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a statement posted on the groups Telegram channel. The U.S. military said Tuesday one of its destroyers shot down a Houthi antiship cruise missile heading its way. The U.S. and a small group of allies have carried out nearly two dozen airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen since mid-January in an effort to end the militant attacks on ships in the Red Sea. Houthi forces have launched scores of drones and missiles at targets over the past four months in what they say is an attempt to pressure Israel to stop its war in Gaza. The Houthis have tried to attack at least 45 ships, and the U.S. military has shot down nearly 95 drones and missiles, according to the Pentagon. Elsewhere, Iran-backed fighters have launched more than 170 attacks in Iraq, Syria and Jordan targeting the U.S. military that have killed three American service members and injured 180 others. Houthi attacks have put a chill on global shipping, with ongoing economic shock waves spreading across the globe. The volume of traffic from North American and European vessels transiting the Red Sea was down by 67% in the week to Feb. 17 compared with October, according to Windward. Some insurers, such as Norways Assuranceforeningen Skuld, have stopped covering all voyages near Yemens waters altogether. While attacks on U.S. forces in Jordan, Syria and Iraq have tapered off in recent days, the Houthi attacks continue unabated. A U.S. official said the Houthis purposely targeted American military ships on Sunday using antiship ballistic missiles for the first time. On Monday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for two attacks, including one in the Gulf of Aden on the U.S.-owned bulk carrier, Sea Champion, which sustained minor damage, Vanguard said. Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group think tank in Washington, said the Houthis are less likely to follow any direction from Tehran to curtail their attacks. The Iranians really cannot rein the Houthis in," he said. We see now in Iraq that they have managed to at least put a pause on the attacks on U.S. forcesprobably temporarily. Thats not the kind of influence they have over the Houthis." William Wechsler, a former assistant secretary of defense who is now senior director of the Atlantic Councils Middle East programs, said the Biden administration should consider an expanded military campaign, including strikes to directly target Houthi leaders. Vaez and Kevin Donegan, a retired vice admiral who led U.S. naval forces in the Middle East as commander of Fifth Fleet from 2015 to 2017, said the most effective way to curtail the Houthi threat is to bring an end to the war in Gaza. Israel launched the war in response to Hamass Oct. 7 cross-border attack from Gaza that the government said killed more than 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and led to the capture of 240 hostages, half of whom are still believed to be held in the Gaza Strip. Israels response has killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to Gaza health officials, whose figures dont distinguish between civilians and fighters. Israel has vowed to continue the war until all hostages are freed and Hamas is eliminated as a threat. But international pressure is increasing on Israel to find a diplomatic end to the fight. We have to get the conflict in Gaza resolved or stopped in some way," said Donegan. Thats the only thing thats going to allow other things to happen. In the meantime, we cant allow the Houthis to blow up the global supply chain." Nadwa Al-Dawsari, a nonresident fellow at the Middle East Institute who specializes in Yemen, said an expanded U.S. military campaign would also be ineffective. Airstrikes are not going to neutralize the Houthi capabilities," she said. The airstrikes are validating the Houthi narrative that they are at war with America and Israel." Dawsari encouraged the U.S. to step up its direct military support for Yemens government, which has struggled to defeat the Houthis over nearly a decade of civil war. If we dont deal with the Houthi problem today, it will be a bigger problem to solve in the future," she said. Nancy Youssef contributed to this article. Write to Dion Nissenbaum at dion.nissenbaum@wsj.com and Benoit Faucon at benoit.faucon@wsj.com The realization that Chinas property bust is beginning to look semi-permanent isnt welcome for big miners, which have long fed off the countrys housing demand. But although China is starting far fewer new apartment blocks these days, it is building lots more of other metal-intense things like electric vehicles and windmills. That fact, along with supply discipline from the big iron-ore miners, has kept things from being even worse. Even so, miners headline results released this week werent pretty. Rio Tintos full-year net profit was down 19% year-over-year, the miner said Wednesday, thanks in part to a drop in aluminum prices. BHPs first-half underlying profit, after stripping out one-time charges, including a big nickel asset write-down, was largely flat. Both miners announced dividend cuts. Rio Tintos full-year underlying earnings were down 12%. There were some bright spots, however. Indicators of Chinas copper demand growth, particularly imports of copper ore and concentrate, still look solidno surprise given the huge EV and green-power boom. Imports of copper ore and concentrate, in metric tons, were over 20% higher last quarter than in the first quarter of 2021, before the real-estate bust hit metals demand. Even imports of iron ore were 7% higher, according to figures from data provider CEIC. Given the scale of the property disaster, that is surprisingly strong. One reason: While the housing market meltdown in China could take a long while to fix, steel demand is getting a boost from manufacturing and infrastructure. The property market made up only 27% of Chinas finished steel demand in 2023 versus 34% in 2019, according to Rio Tinto. Chinas iron-ore imports hit a record of 1.18 billion metric tons in 2023, Rio says. China produced about 1.02 billion metric tons of crude steel last year, flat from a year earlier, official data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows, steadying after two years of decline. Weak supply growth for iron ore has also helped support prices. ANZ says steel demand from Chinas property sector was down 15% from 2022 levels last year, and its total demand grew just 0.5%. But the bank thinks that global iron-ore shipments probably fell last year too. That wouldnt be surprising, since the gathering storm clouds in China have been obvious to everyone, including the big miners, for some time now. Iron-ore prices actually ended the year up around $30 a metric ton, according to data from CEIC, despite a near-interrupted stream of bad news out of China since midyear. The dribble of policy support from Beijing, most recently a big cut to the benchmark five-year loan prime rate, may also lend some modest support to steel demand at the margin. The huge jump in Chinese copper concentrate imports since 2021 shows where the future is. But even with the China housing-led iron ore boom over, China and the world will still need steel. Write to Megha Mandavia at megha.mandavia@wsj.com Farmers' demand for a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) on all 23 crops sparked debate around crop diversification and its benefits. SKM (Non-Political) leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said the Centre's proposal of buying five crops at MSP will only be meant for those who go for crop diversification. 'Shifting focus from legal framework to crop diversification' Farmers demanded a legal guarantee of MSP for all 23 crops and not just for pulses, maize, and cotton, as proposed by the government. According to Down to Earth, farmers and experts believe that the Centre's proposal is a "diversion of focus from a legal framework for MSP to a couple of crops and to the subject of crop diversification". ALSO READ: Farmers protest: From mobile internet ban to traffic advisory for Delhi, Noida, Guargaon; Here are top 10 points MSP is currently provided on paddy, jowar, bajra, maize, ragi, tur (arhar), moong, urad, cotton, groundnut, sunflower seed, soyabean, sesamum, nigerseed, wheat, barley, gram, masur (lentil), rapeseed & mustard, safflower, toria, copra and de-husked coconut. While sharing the Centre's proposal on Monday, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said during the fourth round of talks, farmers had pointed out that they want to diversify into maize crops but want to avoid suffering losses when the prices drop below the MSP. ALSO READ: Farmers set to resume protest; agri minister Munda urges peace Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reportedly said farmers of the state can adopt cotton and maize only if they get a guarantee for MSP on these crops. He even stressed that the assured marketing of these crops can encourage the farmers to opt for crop diversification. However, farmer leaders believed that only those who switch to other crops from paddy will receive MSP under the government's new plan. "It meant that MSP would be given to only those who switch over from paddy to pulses. It will not be given to those growing 'moong' crops besides paddy," Dallewal was quoted by PTI saying. He asserted that farmers were demanding MSP on all 23 crops. ALSO READ: Farmers protest 2.0: From demands to leadership, Delhi Chalo march is vastly different this time. 10 things to know How can MSP help in crop diversification? According to reports, crop diversification seems to be one of the benefits of legalising MSP for all the 23 crops. Guaranteeing MSP for all crops may encourage farmers to grow crops other than paddy and wheat, the Deccan Herald reported. It is widely said that farmers are inclined to opt for these two crops mainly because of the MSP support and risk for other crops. But MSP on all crops is not enough for crop diversification... Let's first understand why farmers opt for paddy cultivation Agriculture experts say that paddy was not a crop of Punjab. Farmers didn't grow paddy until they were asked to cultivate it to ensure food security. They were given prices to grow this crop. Now, the production of both wheat and paddy increased and food security is no longer an issue. However, it would now be difficult for farmers to suddenly switch to a new crop. ALSO READ: Delhi Chalo march: Govt invites farmer leaders for fifth round of discussion on MSP Devinder Sharma, an expert in agricultural policy, noted that many farmers in the past had chosen to grow alternative crops but they came back to paddy because the net return on other crops is less than the net return they get from paddy. He said the net returns on paddy will remain higher even if the government brings MSP on other crops. If the government wants crop diversification The expert said if the government wants crop diversification, it should give good returns to farmers. In case the government seeks to promote millets and wants farmers to grow them, "then they must give farmers the right package and then they might shift to the millets," Sharma said. He said reducing MSP on paddy and increasing that for other crops is not a solution. He added that farmers will shift to another crop only when they will be given economically viable alternatives. "Paddy is a cash crop for farmers because 90 per cent is procured by the state...if you want them to shift then give them the right kind of price," he said. "Today 14 per cent of farmers are given MSP," said the agriculture expert while citing the data shared in Parliament. "This way, 86 per cent of farmers are given less price, they are dependent on markets. Those who are dependent on markets are given 25-30 per cent less price for their crops...farmers are being given the desired amount and that's why they are protesting," Devinder Sharma said. He pointed out that the farmers are not demanding that the government should buy everything. "They want to make sure that no one buys their crops for an amount below this (MSP) benchmark," he added. How crop diversification can help environment? 1. Air pollution The burning of the remains of paddy crops or stubble burning is one of the major reasons for severe air pollution in Delhi NCR during the winter season. Environmentalists have often batted for crop diversification to reduce the farmers' dependence on paddy cultivation. In January, Special Chief Secretary (Development) KAP Sinha said the Punjab government is mulling the launch of the crop residue management campaign in advance this year to more effectively contain farm fire incidents, besides encouraging growers to adopt crop diversification. 2. Groundwater depletion Vivek Chattopadhyay, the principal programme manager with Centre for Science Environment's Clean Air team, had earlier told Mint that paddy is grown where ample water is required. He had said, "Punjab and Haryana don't have much water...But because of the MSP...farmers have shifted to paddy and they are using groundwater heavily." "Therefore, the government must look at policies and crop diversifications," he said while emphasising the need to shift to "low-water intensive crops". Meanwhile, Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday that the government's proposal, if adopted, "will save Punjab's farming, improve the groundwater table, and save the land from getting barren which is already under stress." 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! Climate activists are questioning how environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles are as those cars rise in popularity. The battle over the green bona fides of hybrids comes ahead of what could be the toughest U.S. restrictions on car pollution. Hybrids combine a gasoline engine with battery power and generally get far better gas mileage than the cars and trucks Americans have typically driven. Hybrid makers led by Toyota Motor argue that the vehicles popularity is something to celebrate and an important solution toward achieving carbon neutrality," Toyota executive Yoichi Miyazaki said. View Full Image ... Those on the other side of the debate, including activists and some regulators, say hybrids arent good enough if the world hopes to meet ambitious carbon-reduction targets. Putting more gasoline-powered cars on roads and saying thats good for the climate is just misleading," said Aaron Regunberg, senior policy counsel at consumer group Public Citizen and a former member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives. The markets shift to hybrids has brought a windfall for Toyota and prompted automakers including Ford Motor and General Motors to lean more heavily into gasoline-electric technology. In December, Public Citizen filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission sayingToyotas branding of its hybrids as hybrid EVs" as well as marketing phrases such as electrified mobility" and beyond zero" mislead consumers. Toyota North America said its marketing uses terms that are standard in the automotive industry. Public Citizen has pushed attorneys general in states including Oregon, New York, Rhode Island and Illinois into examining the matter. Representatives at the state offices declined to comment about potential investigations and how far they may have progressed, and the FTC didnt respond to a request for comment. The marketing debate is a skirmish ahead of an Environmental Protection Agency decision, due this spring, on proposed restrictions. As proposed last year, the new standards would require average fleet emissions to be cut by 56% by 2032 compared with 2026 model-year requirements. A group representing carmakers including Toyota, Honda Motor and Ford is lobbying against the rules. Automakers forecast they would have to sell 67% electric vehicles by 2032 to meet the standards. The companies say the rules would force them to pivot away too quickly from hybrids and other gasoline-powered cars and result in consumers purchasing more costly vehicles. The EPAs draconian EV mandate" would actually be bad for the environment, said Stephen Ciccone, Toyotas North America head of government affairs, in a message to U.S. dealers. We can transition to EVs, but the speed of the transition has to be more realistic," Ciccone wrote in a memo seen by The Wall Street Journal. Despite a lot of hits from environmental activists" and others, Ciccone wrote, we have notand we will notback down." View Full Image ... Research shows that hybrid models typically pump less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than cars powered solely by gasoline. EVs dont emit any carbon dioxide while being driven, but in the U.S., the electricity to charge them usually is generated at least in part by power plants burning natural gas or coal. Also, more emissions are produced when manufacturing EVs and their batteries than when manufacturing gasoline-only cars. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy calculated that, using a nationwide average of different energy sources in 2022, EVs produce annual emissions that heat the planet to the same extent as 2,727 pounds of carbon dioxide. That compares with 6,898 pounds for hybrids and 12,594 pounds for gasoline-only cars. A 2019 study conducted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology comparing similar vehicles across their gasoline-only, hybrid and EV configurations showed similar results. The big gap between hybrids and gasoline-only cars is the reason Toyotas Prius, the pioneering hybrid introduced in the late 1990s, was a darling of environmental groups and Hollywood types. Now those groups argue EVs are the better option. Hybrids, they say, are being used as an excuse by carmakers to avoid moving quickly toward all-electric offerings. Regunberg of Public Citizen said consumers care about their climate impact and are being misled into believing their hybrids are more similar to EVs than they actually are. As the worlds biggest automaker, obviously Toyota has a lot of influence here," he said. In 2019, a consumer-protection authority in Norway took action against a Toyota promotion that called the companys hybrid vehicles self-charging" and therefore free to charge. Toyota meant that power from the hybrids gasoline engine is partly stored in batteries for later use. Norway said the campaign was misleading. Toyota says EVs reduce emissions only if people are willing to buy them, and many consumers today, especially in the U.S., are worried about charging problems and the higher price of an EV. About 1.4 million hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles were sold in the U.S. last year, compared with 1.1 million EVs, according to data from car-shopping website Edmunds. Hybrid sales were up 63% from the previous year, while EV sales climbed 51%. Toyota says the rare minerals used in car batteries are in limited supply, and hybrids use those minerals more sparingly. With hybrids, it says, more gasoline-only vehicles can be taken off the road. The various EV terms and figures about what is good for the environment have left consumers confused, said Scott Kunes, chief operating officer of Kunes Auto and RV, a group of more than 40 auto and RV dealerships in the Midwest. Kunes said much of the hybrid demand is coming from drivers who want to dip their toe in the water" before committing to a fully electric car. He called on the EPA not to mandate electric-vehicle sales when consumers arent ready. Were sitting here at the ground level," he said. We just have to sell whats selling." Write to River Davis at river.davis@wsj.com NEW DELHI : Global supply chain challenges that have weighed down Indian airlines the past few years are unlikely to go away anytime soon, going by French aircraft manufacturer ATRs projections. The company expects its aircraft deliveries to return to pre-covid levels only by 2027-2028, with a gradual easing of supply chain constraints in the aviation ecosystem. In 2023, ATR delivered 36 aircraft, down from 68 in the pre-covid year of 2019. This year, (we are) aiming at 40-ish," Jean Pierre, ATRs head of commercial for Asia-Pacific, told Mint. A supply chain is not something that you switch on, switch off. Its about being mindful and getting that back in line responsibly for our suppliers its a fine balance," he said. The French company manufactures turboprop-powered regional jets, including the ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft that can seat 48-78 passengers. In India, about 100 regional aircraft are registered with scheduled Indian airlines, as per data from flight tracking website flightradar24, and ATR occupies nearly a 70% share of this market. Supply chain disruptions have hurt the aviation sector globally. In India, Go First filed for bankruptcy after Pratt & Whitney could not maintain a steady supply of engines to the airline, leading to the grounding of several of its aircraft. We dont want to strain the supply chain. We have seen what happens when you do that in some of the programmes. We want to be very careful," said Pierre. We want to be somewhere between 60-80 (aircraft per year) in the long run." Pierre added that ATR is open to collaborations in India as it sees the country as the worlds top aviation market. ATR, which was founded in 1981 as a joint venture between Aerospatiale of France (now Airbus) and Aeritalia (now Leonardo) of Italy, has been present in India for about two decades. The (Indian) market is so big that yes, we need to be open and look at every opportunity. It would be foolish for us to not look at it," said Pierre. We would be interested in support aspects spares." ATR currently has spareparts warehouses in Paris, Auckland, Miami and Singapore, and customer service centres in Miami, Toulouse, Singapore and Bengaluru. I am talking to everybody (Indian airlines) seriously. The market has such huge requirements for regional connectivity that we see a lot of action coming up," Pierre said. ATR aircraft have been particularly used in India across the so-called Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik, or Udan, routesthe governments regional airport development programmeas these planes are designed for use in shorter runways. Indias largest airline IndiGo became an ATR customer in 2017 with an order for 50 aircraft, each with seating for 78 passengers. It has so far received deliveries of 45 ATR aircraft, and the remaining are expected to be inducted this year. IndiGo serves eight sectors per ATR aircraft. Some of these routes include Delhi-Dharamsala, Chennai-Mangalore, Ranchi-Kolkata, and Hubli-Bengaluru. State-run Alliance Air has a fleet of 20 ATR aircraft, and the newly launched fly91 airline recently secured two ATR-72 aircraft on lease. 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! Mining companies have spent much of the past decade in investors bad books. Throughout the 2000s and early 2010s the industry, betting that the surge in commodity prices brought on by Chinas economic rise would persist, splurged on investments and racked up hefty debts in the process. At the height of the frenzy in 2013 the combined capital expenditure of the worlds 40 largest mining firms by market value reached $130bn, according to pwc, an advisory firm, nearly four-fifths of their earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). That spending spree left mining bosses red-faced as economic growth in China slowed, causing commodity pricesand the industrys profitsto plummet. Miners spent the years that followed cleaning up the mess. In 2015 more than $50bn-worth of assets were written down. BHP, the worlds most valuable mining firm, spun off its least-loved sites to raise money and simplify its sprawling business. Others followed suit. Cash was used to pay off debts instead of financing new projects. View Full Image ... Since then, profits and commodity prices have recovered. But investment has not. In 2022 the 40 largest miners together invested $75bn, equivalent to a mere quarter of EBITDA (see chart 1). BHP, which on February 20th reported its results for the second half of 2023, invested $8.8bn last yearless than half as much as it spent in 2013. That is a problem. Decarbonising the global economy will require 6.5bn tonnes of metal between now and 2050, according to the Energy Transitions Commission, a think-tank. Although much attention has been paid to the lithium and nickel needed for batteries, that is only one part of the picture. Fully 170m tonnes a year of steel, comprising mostly iron ore, will be needed for everything from wind turbines to electric vehicles (EVs)more than ten times current global production. Vast amounts of copper will be required to expand and upgrade electricity grids. Demand for aluminium, cobalt, graphite and platinum will rise substantially, too. That will require a lot of blasting and drilling, which must begin now. Why isnt it happening? View Full Image Why-the-world-s-mining-companies-are-so-stingy One reason miners are reluctant to loosen the purse-strings is that they are still trying to win back the confidence of investors. The value of the MSCI world metals and mining index, which tracks share prices in the industry, has risen by about 10% in the past decade, compared with a doubling in the worlds stockmarkets as a whole (see chart 2). Returns on new projects in the industry are currently around 7%. That is hard to sell to investors when the yield on investment-grade corporate bonds in America is above 5%. Wary of risky new developments, miners are prioritising expanding or selectively acquiring existing sites. Last year BHP bought OZ Minerals, an Australian miner of copper, gold and nickel, for $6.4bn. Mining firms are also handing more cash back to shareholders through dividends and buybacks than at any time since 2007, according to S&P Global, a data provider. Yet miners and their cautious investors are not entirely to blame for the dearth of activity. Mike Henry, chief executive of BHP, notes that doing business has become more difficult and expensive in recent years. Rising costs for labour and equipment have squeezed returns, says Jonathan Price, boss of Teck Resources, a Canadian mining giant. The nearly $9bn price tag to develop its Quebrada Blanca 2 copper mine in Chile, which opened last year, was almost double what it had estimated in 2019. The scope of what miners are expected to do to minimise the environmental impact of sites has also widened considerably, says James Whiteside of Wood Mackenzie, a research firm. Companies can no longer simply rely on diesel generators to power sites. They are increasingly being told either to connect to the grid or to install renewable-energy sources such as solar panels. Governments worried about water use have compelled miners to build desalination plants. All that has further increased costs. Miners, nervous of disappointing investors, have become more prone to pausing or cancelling projects when costs go up or prices come down. You really have to have the stomach to think long-term," says Jakob Stausholm, the boss of Rio Tinto, the worlds second-most-valuable miner. That is not always easy. On February 15th BHP said that it would write down the value of its Western Australian nickel business by $2.5bn in response to higher costs and a slump in the price of the metal due to an expansion of Indonesian supply. Another reason for miners lack of investment is woefully lengthy permitting processes, which delay projects and add uncertainty. In America obtaining permits often takes between seven and ten years, with companies required to consult a variety of government agencies and other interested parties. In some countries environmental concerns have led to approvals being withdrawn. The Serbian government revoked the licence of Rio Tinto, another mining behemoth, for a $2.4bn lithium mine after environmental protests broke out in 2022. One thorny issue is access to the ancestral lands of indigenous populations. In America the majority of resources97% of nickel, 89% of copper and 79% of lithiumare either on Native American reservations or within 35 miles (56km) of them. One example is the Resolution Copper project near Phoenix, Arizona. The site, jointly owned by BHP and Rio Tinto, could meet a quarter of Americas current copper needs, but has encountered stiff resistance from the Native American community. In 2020 the former chief executive of Rio Tinto was forced to step down after the company blew up two ancient Aboriginal rock shelters in Australia, sparking public outrage. The chairman also resigned the next year. Few bosses want to tempt a similar fate; others are also put off by spending in far-flung jurisdictions where governance is poor, for fear of irking sustainability-minded investors. Blasted As Western miners have retreated, others have piled in. Cash-rich Gulf entities are taking an interest. International Resource Holdings, an Emirati mining firm, is buying a 51% stake in Mopani, a Zambian copper miner, for $1.1bn. The government of the United Arab Emirates has agreed to invest $1.9bn to develop at least four mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Manara Minerals, a Saudi Arabian mining fund, is hunting for more investments after buying a stake in the base-metals unit of Vale, a Brazilian miner, for $3bn last year. The kingdom is also scouring its own vast deserts for resources and has opened itself up to foreign miners. It is making it easier for miners to operate by supporting the development of infrastructure including railways and desalination plants, says Bandar Alkhorayef, the minister for mining and industry. The bigger threat to Western miners, however, comes from China. In the first half of 2023 its firms invested $10bn abroad in mining, 130% more than in the first six months of the previous year. Nine of the worlds 40 most valuable listed mining companies today are Chinese. Firms such as CMOC, Minmetals and Zijin Mining have snapped up assets from Bolivia and Botswana to Serbia and Suriname. Many of these firms are backed by state-owned banks or investment funds. Compared with the Western majors, they face less pressure from shareholders to rein in spending. Western governments, alarmed by Chinas growing control over the commodities needed for the energy transition, have turned to diplomacy. In 2022 America established the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) with various allies in order to channel investment into the extraction and processing of critical metals. This month Japan, under the auspices of the MSP, signed an agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo to expand business opportunities". America is also reportedly in discussions with the eu to team up with resource-rich countries and facilitate projects. Yet for as long as investors are timid, costs stay high and the permitting process glacial, all this will do little to get miners to dig in. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com SVG Ventures ITHRIVE has announced the nine companies that will participate in the second iteration of their THRIVE APAC Accelerator Program. Based out of Melbourne, Victoria, the program will support scaling AgTech companies from Australia and New Zealand with a focus on supporting global growth. The APAC Accelerator program underscores SVG Ventures ITHRIVEs commitment to supporting the AgriFood tech ecosystem in the APAC region, and builds on the success of their inaugural program which concluded in June 2023. SVG|THRIVE is uniquely positioned to support APAC entrepreneurs by connecting them with their extensive global ecosystem. Companies were selected following a virtual pitch day where 20 finalists pitched to a panel of industry judges including representatives from Dairy Australia, Meat & Livestock Australia, GRCD, Warakirri, Breakthrough Victoria, Trawalla Group, LaunchVic and Agriculture Victoria. The APAC Accelerator program is designed to help companies with solid traction in their home market scale internationally, leveraging THRIVEs broad global ecosystem with a particular focus on penetrating the North American market. The program will conclude at the THRIVE Global Impact Summit which takes place on November 7, 2024 in Silicon Valley, California with bespoke meetings with global corporates and a Silicon Valley immersion program. The 2024 program participants have developed commercial technologies spanning biological inputs; AI; hardware and software and all have a well-established local client base in the Australian market, with many having already secured their first international clients. Joining the 2024 program are:[HH1] The THRIVE APAC Accelerator program is supported by the Victorian Government through Invest Victoria and Agriculture Victoria, complimenting the early-stage accelerators in the Australian ecosystem. Were delighted to welcome our second APAC Accelerator Cohort said John Hartnett, Founder and CEO of SVG Ventures|THRIVE. We look forward to accelerating their growth as they expand into new markets and create a footprint in the US and beyond. For more information about the THRIVE APAC Accelerator program visit thriveagrifood.com/australian-accelerator. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. The Red Sea crisis has disrupted shipping routes, pushing refining margins significantly higher. The benchmark Singapore gross refining margin is seeing an uptrend, currently up more than 56% compared to the December quarter (Q3FY24), as illustrated in the chart here. This trend is poised to benefit refiners, including Reliance Industries Ltd's oil-to-chemicals (O2C) segment, which accounted for more than 36% of its consolidated Ebitda for the nine months ended December. Jefferies India notes that the tanker transit by Red Sea has slipped over 50% since December. This has led to longer shipping times and delayed supplies driving up diesel spreads about 40% since December," said Jefferies analysts in a report on 19 February. The forward curve suggests diesel spreads could remain elevated into Q1FY25, they added. After a weak Q3FY24, the ongoing quarter is likely to be strong for Reliances O2C segment. The company's O2C segment was impacted in the December quarter due to the planned maintenance, inspection shutdown and lower downstream chemical margins resulting in a nearly 14% sequential drop in Ebitda. In Q4, Jefferies expects Reliances O2C Ebitda to rise 22% sequentially. Passive income from dividends has become the lifeblood of many investors, and is one of the many reasons why they keep faith in the stock market. Even the father of value investing Benjamin Graham agreed. In his words, The true investor will do better if he forgets about the stock market and pays attention to his dividend returns and to the operation results of his companies." The assumption is that companies paying out a slice of their earnings to shareholders typically have a record of strong profits. Dividend investors thus give the company an incentive to maintain their dividend payments into the future. With that in mind, today well look at the top five PSU stocks with dividend yields of over 5%. The dividend yield is the return on a stock investment thats solely from dividends. It is calculated by dividing the dividend per share by the current price. The higher the dividend yield, the better. With that explainer out of the way, lets get started. Oh, and by the way, these stocks are filtered using the Equitymaster's powerful Indian stock screener. #1 Power Finance Corporation (PFC) Despite the strong rally in PSU stocks over the past few months, PFC commands a dividend yield of over 3%. Over the past year, its stock price has increased by 271%. PFC stock price View Full Image Source: Google Finance The company will pay an interim dividend of 3.5 on Thursday. Earlier, it paid an interim dividend of 4.5 for the current financial year. And in September 2023, PFC had issued bonus shares in the ratio of 1:4. Talk about consistency in rewarding investors! According to the guidelines on capital restructuring of central public sector enterprises (CPSE), all CPSEs are required to pay a minimum annual dividend of 30% of their profit after tax (PAT) or 5% of their net worth, whichever is higher, unless an exemption is provided. View Full Image Source: BSE Except for FY19, PFC has been consistently paying dividends since 2007. The median dividend per share is 7.9, and the average dividend per share over the past five years is 8.05. Note that power financing companies such as PFC and IREDA have been in demand after India sped up its renewable-energy target. According to IREDAs draft prospectus, it will require around 30 trillion in funding, of which 12 trillion could come from power-financing NBFCs. Additionally, the government's late payment surcharge rule, which addresses defaults and delays in payments by distribution companies, will ensure the timely settlement of outstanding dues and current bills, and is expected to contribute to PFCs wellbeing. The anticipated growth in generation capacity in the coming years presents a favourable landscape for the company. #2 Coal India At the current price of 484, Coal India commands a dividend yield of 5.1%. Over the past year, its stock has shot up by 122%. Coal India stock price View Full Image Source: Google Finance So far this financial year, Coal India has already paid two interim dividends 15.25 November 2023 and 5.25 in February 2024. The company is also expected to declare a final dividend in the coming months. Coal India has consistently maintained its dividend yield above 5% over the past decade. It is now in an elite group of companies that have had dividend yields around 9-10%. For FY23, the company's dividend yield was 11.3%. As its stock price increased over the last year, the current yield is 5.1%. The company has had significant capex of late to reduce its carbon footprint. It plans to invest another 200 billion over the next few years to set up solar power plants and thermal power plants, and revive fertiliser plants. It is also investing in increasing its mining and coal-washing capacity and improving rail infrastructure. Such huge capex could affect the company's free cash flows. Moreover, Coal Indias is a cyclical stock, and could see huge fluctuations in earnings if coal prices fluctuate. This could hurt its capacity to pay dividends. Despite the proposed capex, the company will be able to maintain its streak of high dividend payouts. Until renewable energy has a major share in power generation, coal will continue to dominate. #3 Balmer Lawrie Investments A relatively unknown PSU, Balmer Lawrie Investments is an NBFC operating in the financial services industry. It is currently under the control of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. At the current price of 667 per share, it commands a dividend yield of 4.9%. Over the past year, shares of the company have risen by 85%. Balmer Lawrie Investments stock price View Full Image Source: Google Finance The company is yet to declare a dividend for the current financial year. It paid a dividend of 7.5 a share in September 2023. Investors usually consider this company as a pure dividend play as it has rewarded shareholders with big dividends over the years, as the table below shows. View Full Image Source: Ace Equity Balmer Lawrie Investments holds over 60% in Balmer Lawrie Co Ltd, and receives crores in dividends every year, adding to its strong cash flow. Over the years, the company has steadily improved its performance and boasts of a respectable return on equity (ROE) and return on capital employed (ROCE) of 44% and 46%, respectively. Its recent quarterly earnings showed improvement across segments. #4 Power Grid Corporation At the current price of 275 a share, Power Grid Corporation commands a dividend yield of 5.4%. Over the past year, the share price has increased by 70%. Power Grid Corporation stock price View Full Image Source: Google Finance This financial year it has paid two dividends 4 in November 2023 and 4.5 in February 2024. It also rewarded shareholders with bonus shares in a 1:3 ratio in September 2023. From humble beginnings in 1989, it has gone on to become the largest power transmission company in India. With its nationwide grid network, the company acts as a connector between power-generating companies and power-trading firms. It also has a pivotal role to play in bringing energyto the home of every Indian in the coming decades. The company also ventured into EV charging infrastructure and is setting up charging stations across the country. It plans significant investments to expand its transmission network, with a focus on interstate and intrastate projects. With it, it aims to connect renewable-energy sources, improve grid stability, and facilitate electricity trading. #5 Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals At the current price of 241, the company commands a dividend yield of 4.1%. Over the past year, its stock has surged 84%. Gujarat State Fertilizers stock price View Full Image Source: Google Finance In September 2023 the company paid a final dividend of 10 a share, which was its highest payout. GSFC is currently planning massive capex around 40 billion over the next four years. This should keep it in good stead going forward. In recent quarters, it posted its highest ever revenue and fertiliser sales, though the recent Q3 numbers were hit by rising input prices and subsidy reduction. Over the past two years, the company has announced several modular capex projects, including an ammonium sulphate plant, an HX crystal project, a solar power project, and revamping its urea plant at Vadodara to boost production. All these projects will be funded through internal accruals and surplus liquidity, which will help the company remain debt-free. It also plans to set up a green hydrogen plant in its Vadodara plant to support the government's green initiatives. New product launches and new initiatives in the green hydrogen space are expected to drive its revenue in the medium term. Which other PSU stocks have high dividend yields? View Full Image Source: Equitymaster Conclusion So there you go these PSU stocks have consistently maintained above-average yields and have a rich dividend history spanning over several years. If you wish to invest in high-dividend-yield stocks, think of it this way. At current valuations, you'd get a decent stock that could not only give FD-like returns but also have the potential for both capital appreciation and increased dividend payouts in the future. Happy investing! Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such. This article is syndicated from Equitymaster.com Investing in the stock market has long been recognised as a pathway to potential wealth creation. One of the fundamental principles of investing in the stock market is the importance of time. The ability to identify and hold onto promising stocks over an extended period can yield significant returns. Some mid- and small-cap firms have delivered impressive returns to investors in recent years. Swan Energy is one such stock that has delivered phenomenal returns to its long-term shareholders. Also Read: Hindalco shares jump 5% after Novelis files for IPO in the US The company's shares, valued at 120 apiece in November 2021, have surged by 518% to reach the current price of 742 per share. A significant portion of this increase occurred over the past five months, with the stock rallying from 287 per share to its current level, delivering a massive return of 160%. In terms of yearly performance, the stock has consistently delivered positive returns over the last five years. In CY19, it saw a surge of 7%, followed by gains of 24.59% and 9% in CY20 and CY21, respectively. CY22 witnessed a remarkable multi-bagger return of 110%, while CY23 concluded with another stellar performance, yielding a return of 67%. As for the current year, it has seen an increase of 45% thus far. On February 19, the stock reached an all-time high of 764 per share. This impressive performance is attributed to the company's strong diversification. Meanwhile, the company on Tuesday announced its initiation of a 4,000 crore fundraising campaign through a qualified institutional payment (QIP), with the floor price at 703.29 per share. About Swan Energy Incorporated in 1909 as a textile company, Swan Energy was acquired in 1992 by its current promoters, Mr Navinbhai Dave and his son-in-law, Mr Nikhil Merchant, from the JP Goenka Group. After acquiring the company, the management steered it out of financial distress by diversifying into the real estate and energy sectors. Also Read: Tourism Finance Corp share price locked at 5% upper circuit as investor Aditya Halwasiya buys 13% stake Noteworthy acquisitions include Veritas India Ltd. (VIL) and Reliance Naval & Engineering Ltd. (RNEL), bolstering its presence in petrochemicals, defence, and shipbuilding. The company's recent financials reflect diversified revenue streams and promising growth prospects, underpinned by robust EBITDA margins. As of December 31, 2023, SEL's strategic acquisitions and diverse portfolio position it for sustained growth, said domestic brokerage firm Sunidhi Securities & Finance. Indias first Floating Storage & Regasification Unit India's first floating storage & regasification unit (FSRU) marks a significant milestone for the company. Situated at Jafrabad Port, Gujarat, this LNG import terminal is nearing completion and is set to commence operations in April 2024. Initially designed with a capacity of 5.0 MMTPA, plans for Phase II aim to double this capacity to 10.0 MMTPA by 202728. Operating on a tolling terminal basis, the project has secured long-term off-take contracts with major entities like GSPC, ONGC, BPCL, and IOC, ensuring a steady revenue stream, as highlighted by brokerage. Outlook & Valuation At the current market price, the stock trades at 69 times the trailing twelve-month (TTM) earnings per share (EPS) of 10.5 and 25 times the enterprise value to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EV/EBITDA) based on TTM EBITDA of 9,340 million. The brokerage maintains a positive outlook for SEL due to significant capital expenditure across various business segments, financed through a combination of debt and equity, thereby managing debt levels effectively. However, the brokerage has not assigned a rating to the company. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making 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! The Indian IPO market appears to be a significant wealth generator, swiftly multiplying investors' wealth within mere days. Over the past year, a majority of IPOs entering the primary market have seen strong opening gains. Companies with strong fundamentals are particularly catching the attention of investors, leading to a robust subscription rate during their bidding period and subsequently translating into impressive debuts. Against this backdrop, Vibhor Steel, which made its stock market debut yesterday, experienced a significant listing gain, reflecting the broader trend in the market. Also Read: Multibagger stock: Swan Energy delivered over 500% return in less than 3 years; up for 6th straight year During the bidding period from February 13 to February 15, the Vibhor Steel IPO garnered a remarkable subscription rate of 298.86 times. From the first day, the IPO witnessed a strong response, maintaining strong momentum throughout the three-day bidding process. This stellar response marked the IPO as the first to achieve a subscription rate exceeding 200 times in 2024. Following this strong demand, the stock debuted impressively, opening at an 181% premium of 425 per share compared to the issue price of 151. The stock continued to strengthen, concluding its debut day with a robust listing gain of 195.5%, settling at 446.3 per share. Vibhor Steel also set a milestone as the first Mainboard IPO of 2024 to list with a premium of over 190%. Prior to Vibhor Steel, BLS E-Services held the top position with a listing gain of 171% and a subscription rate of 162.5 times. About Vibhor Steel Tubes Vibhor Steel Tubes is a manufacturer and exporter of mild steel, carbon steel, ERW black and galvanised pipes, hollow steel pipes, and cold-rolled steel (CR) strips and coils. Since 2003, the company has been collaborating with Jindal Pipes Limited, manufacturing and supplying finished goods under the brand name "Jindal Star." It has recently renewed its agreement with Jindal Pipes for six years, ensuring a minimum annual order of 1 lakh MT with a 2% discount on the gross sale price. This minimum quantity will fill the majority capacity of Units I and II of the company. Also Read: Small is Big: 18 SME IPOs in 2024 saw subscriptions between 100 and 960 times The tenure of this agreement is for six years from April 01, 2023, and can be further renewed if required by both parties, the company said in its RHP report. With the help of Jindal Pipes Limited, the company has developed and implemented a wide range of networking channels throughout the industry and society to strengthen the scope of identifying the core customer base, designing the right marketing strategies for procurement, and liaising on projects to deliver customised solutions for clients. The company exports its manufactured goods for Jindal Pipes Limited under the brand Jindal to overseas customers. As of September 30, 2023, it had been exported to around 10 countries. Also Read: These 3 Nifty 50 stocks hovering near their 52-week lows; what should you do? The company has expanded into a new product line, launched a new product, namely Crass Barriers, under its own brand, and started manufacturing and selling the product. It is also working on expanding its sales under the Vibhor" brand continuously. Steady Financial Growth The company has demonstrated consistent revenue and profit growth over the past three fiscal years. Revenue from operations increased from 511.51 crore in FY21 to 818.48 crore in FY22, and further to 1,114.38 crore in FY23. Similarly, the profit after tax (PAT) followed a similar upward trend, rising from 0.69 crore in FY21 to 11.33 crore in FY22, and further to 21.07 crore in FY23. In H1FY24, the company reported revenue of 531.24 crore and a PAT of 8.52 crore. Disclaimer: We advise investors to check with certified experts before making 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! The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) is a retiral body which provides retiral benefits like provident fund, employee pension or family pension to the dependents of the employee in case of death. The Employees Provident Fund scheme provides that the employer is required to deduct 12% of the aggregate basic wages & dearness allowance and contribute a matching amount. EPFO declares the annual interest on the provident fund accumulations. Employees can withdraw the provident fund accumulations at the time of superannuation. Employees at the time of taking membership of the EPF or EPS Scheme are required to provide nomination details to the employer and after verification, the employer shall submit the same to EPFO. In the event of the death of the member, the amount standing to his credit becomes payable to the nominee(s). Here are five legal challenges/issues: Where a nomination not provided by the member or nominee has no title? In the event of death, where no person is declared as nominee or the person declared as nominee has no title, the accumulations standing to the credit of the member shall be paid to the legal heirs of the member in accordance with the applicable succession laws. In Anonio Joao Fernandes V. Assistant Provident Fund Commissioner (2010) 127 FLR 849 (Bom), the Bombay High Court held that a person entitled to succeed as a legal heir under the law of succession shall be entitled to the entire amount of provident fund of the deceased. Where nomination relates only to part of the amount standing to the credit of the member? In case the member declares nomination only in respect of certain part of the total provident fund accumulations, the amount to which nomination does not relate shall be paid to the members of the family in equal shares. Who is entitled to a family pension in the event of the death of the member? According to the Employee Pension Scheme, family comprises of wife, in case of male member; husband in case of female member and sons and daughters of the family including the ones legally adopted by the member. The members of the family only shall be entitled to family pension. How is nomination by a person not having family is done? If the member at the time of making the nomination has no family, nomination may be given in favour of any person. Subsequently, if the member acquires a family previous nomination shall be invalid and the member shall make a fresh nomination in favour of one or more persons belonging to his/her family. What happens in the case of multiple nominations? The EPFO will consider the latest nomination submitted by the member. No limit is prescribed under the Act with respect to the number of nominees. The member in his nomination has the flexibility to state the distribution of the amount amongst the nominees. The rights of nominees versus the rights of the successor have been settled by the Honble Supreme Court recently in the case of Shakti Yezdani v. Jayanand Jayant Salgaonkar (2023 INSC 1076), wherein it was held that even if a nomination has been made, succession laws shall take precedence over the nomination process under the Companies Act. Though the decision was rendered in the context of the Companies Act, it does have relevance for other general nominations including EPF nominations. Noorul Hassan, Partner at Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan Attorneys 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: Kotak Mutual Fund's flagship offering - Kotak Bluechip Fund, has stood as a beacon of growth in the dynamic world of investments and has recently marked a milestone of 25 years since its inception on December 29, 1998. The Fund reflects Indias economic growth and is a testament to the power of compounding, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.36%1 for SIP. The performance of the fund can be gauged from the fact that an investment of 10,000 per month through Systematic Investment Plans (SIP) in this fund over the last 25 years translated into corpus of approximately 3.50 crore1 as of 31st January 2024. The Fund has invested in the companies selected for their strong business fundamentals and capable management teams, making the fund an ideal choice for those looking to invest in Bluechip companies. It's designed to be a core part of any investment plan, helping investors achieve growth in the long term. Kotak Bluechip Fund has generated these returns amidst many economic and global headwinds such as the 2000 Dot-com Bubble Burst, the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, 2016 Demonetization, and the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic, among others. Navigating the portfolio through these events has been the key to the Fund's performance. When the Nifty 50 benchmark index was at 15%, the fund has outperformed with an 18% compounded return since inception. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director KMAMC said, "Over the past 25 years, India's landscape has evolved significantly. Through every economic cycle, political phase, and fundamental shift, the Kotak Bluechip Fund has mirrored India's growth story." Harsha Upadhyaya, Chief Investment Officer - Equity, KMAMC is at the helm of the Fund, and has played a pivotal role by guiding the fund's performance to provide investors with growth opportunities by investing in India's blue-chip companies. Speaking on the Funds 25 years completion he said, Kotak Bluechip Fund has successfully navigated various economic, political, and social changes over the past 25 years. The fund has outperformed both Nifty 100 TRI and Nifty 50 TRI over various time periods1." The Funds current Assets Under Management (AUM) stand at 7,424.61 Crore, as of January 31, 2024, a reflection of its potential. Kotak Bluechip Fund is not just part of the Indian growth story; it represents a significant chapter in that story. It is a narrative of relentless pursuit of growth and unwavering resilience. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. ICRA 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! Ameen Sayani, who helped popularise All India Radio in India, passed away in Mumbai following a cardiac arrest. Sayanis funeral will take place on Thursday, February 22, as the family is waiting for some relatives to arrive in Mumbai on Wednesday. His son Rajil Sayani confirmed the news about his fathers death at 91 years of age, reported Indianexpress.com. Rajil Sayani informed that his father, Ameen Sayani, suffered a heart attack on Tuesday night, following which he was immediately rushed to Mumbai's HN Reliance Hospital. The iconic radio presenter who hosted the popular show Binaca Geetmala passed away in HN Reliance Hospital. Rajil Sayani said, The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldnt save him and he was declared dead," reported Indianexpress.com. Ameen Sayani was renowned for his show Binaca Geetmala that was broadcasted over Radio Ceylon and later over Vividh Bharati for a total of over 42 years. During his career, he produced, compiled (or spoken for) over 54,000 radio programmes and 19,000 spots/jingles since 1951. Sayani was also a part of various movies throughout the years where he appeared in the role of an announcer in some events, such as Bhoot Bungla, Teen Devian, Boxer, and Qatl. PM Modi in a social media post on X, tweeted, Shri Ameen Sayani Jis golden voice on the airwaves had a charm and warmth that endeared him to people across generations. Through his work, he played an important role in revolutionising Indian broadcasting and nurtured a very special bond with his listeners. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family, admirers and all radio lovers. May his soul rest in peace." Hundreds of farmers have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri on the Punjab-Haryana border in response to the Dilli Chalo march that began on February 13. Here are ten points to note about the ongoing agitation ranging from mobile internet ban, seizure of social media accounts to traffic advisory. Amid ongoing farmers' protest, in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Delhi Traffic Police stated, On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 9:30 am to 11:30 am." The government on Tuesday informed that around 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses and small vehicles. The Centre raised strong objections over the Punjab government's handling of the situation, as per sources. The Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 20 censured the protesting farmers, stating that tractor trolleys cant be used on highways. The court stated, According to the Motor Vehicle Act, you cant use tractor trolleys on the highway. You are travelling from Amritsar to Delhi on trolleys," the bench comprising acting Chief Justice, GS Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji said, noting that everyone knows about rights but there are constitutional duties" as well. The bench also questioned the Punjab government for permitting such large assembly of farmers. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on February 14 and 19 issued orders to temporarily block around 177 social media accounts and web links associated with the farmers' protest, as per sources. These orders were issued at the request of the Ministry of Home Affairs under section 69A of the IT Act. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stressed that farmers should be permitted to proceed with their march on Wednesday and said, The intention of the govt was very clear that they would not let us enter Delhi at any cost...If you don't want to find a solution through discussion with farmers then we should be allowed to march towards Delhi," reported ANI. The Delhi Police directed security personnel deployed at the city's Tikri, Singhu and Ghazipur border points to stay alert. Delhi Police also conducted mock drills on Tuesday. Moreover, police officials heightened security arrangements at Delhi's borders and in the National Capital Region (NCR). Additionally, the Haryana government on Tuesday extended the ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts till Wednesday amid ongoing farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' protest. Union Minister Arjun Munda on Tuesday appealed to the protesting farmers to maintain peace and said, "We have to take it forward from discussion to solutions...we want to ensure that we all get together to find a solution and brainstorm over the issue." Union minister V K Singh on Tuesday said that it is not easy for any government to fulfil the demands of the farmer leaders and accused the farmer leaders of not striving for a solution to their problems. On Tuesday, Haryana Police urged its Punjab Police to seize bulldozers which have been brought by protesting farmers from Punjab as they plan to resume their 'Delhi Chalo' from the interstate border. The protestors are set to begin their march again today from the two points on the Punjab-Haryana border as the previous four rounds of talks with the Centre over a legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) for crops have failed. These talks turned out to be inconclusive even as Union ministers met the farmers in Chandigarh in the presence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The protestors had put forward 10 demands including a legal guarantee to the minimum support price (MSP) for all crops, the implementation of Swaminathan Commissions formula, full debt waiver for farmers, pension for farmers and labourers, and withdrawal of cases against farmers during the 2020-21 protest and more. (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! The Punjab and Haryana High Court on February 20 censured the protesting farmers who are camping at the Shambhu border with hundreds of tractors. The court ruled that tractor trolleys cant be used on highways. According to the Motor Vehicle Act, you cant use tractor trolleys on the highway. You are travelling from Amritsar to Delhi on trolleys," the bench comprising acting chief justice GS Sandhawalia and justice Lapita Banerji said, underscoring that everyone knows about rights but there are constitutional duties" as well. The bench also questioned the Punjab government for permitting such large assembly of farmers. This verdict was given while a public interest litigation (PIL) hearing was taking place which was moved by advocate Uday Pratap Singh, a resident of Amravati Enclave, Panchkula. The petitioner pointed out that the road blockade had been causing inconvenience to residents and was also a hindrance to the movement of ambulances, school buses and pedestrians since February 13. Meanwhile, the Punjab and Haryana governments submitted status reports on the situation on the ground during the hearing. Uday Pratap Singh sought directions to remove restrictions imposed by invoking Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code. He also called for the suspension of mobile internet services and bulk SMS in several districts of Haryana, such as Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa, due to the farmers agitation. Hundreds of farmers have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri on the Punjab-Haryana border in response to the Dilli Chalo march that began on February 13. These protestors have put forward 10 demands including a legal guarantee to the minimum support price (MSP) for all crops, the implementation of Swaminathan Commissions formula, full debt waiver for farmers, pension for farmers and labourers, and withdrawal of cases against farmers during the 2020-21 protest and more. Meanwhile, four rounds of talks of farmer leaders with the Centre have failed\, even as the Union ministers met the farmers in Chandigarh in the presence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Moreover, the court has fixed the next date of hearing for next week and has sought a report on the outcome of parleys with farmers by the adjourned date. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stressed that farmers should be permitted to proceed with their march on Wednesday. The intention of the govt was very clear that they would not let us enter Delhi at any cost...If you don't want to find a solution through discussion with farmers then we should be allowed to march towards Delhi," reported ANI Delhi Minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai, If the government wants to make India a developed nation, it can't be done without increasing the income of farmers. The govt should take a decision on this soon," reported ANI. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! New Delhi is all set to host the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue from today (Wednesday) till Friday (February 23). Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), the conference will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic (Greece) Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is the Chief Guest. The 9th Raisina Dialogue will witness the participation of Ministers, former Heads of State and Heads of Government, Military Commanders, Captains of Industry, Technology Leaders, Academics, Journalists, Scholars on Strategic Affairs, Experts from leading Think Tanks, and youth from more than 100 nations. Over the course of three days, decision makers and thought leaders from around the world will engage each other across conversations in various formats, the MEA said in a statement. Over 2,500 participants from about 115 countries will be joining the dialogue in person, and the proceedings will be viewed by millions across the world on various digital platforms. Here is everything that you need to know about the Raisina Dialogue: Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community. Every year, leaders in politics, business, media, and civil society converge in New Delhi to discuss the state of the world and explore opportunities for cooperation on a wide range of contemporary matters. "The Dialogue is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving heads of state, cabinet ministers and local government officials, who are joined by thought leaders from the private sector, media and academia," according to ORF's website. Theme of Raisina Dialogue 2024 The theme of the 2024 edition is "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create". Over the course of three days, decision makers and thought leaders of the world will engage each other across conversations in various formats, over six thematic pillars: Tech Frontiers: Regulations and Realities Peace with the Planet: Invest and Innovate War and Peace: Armouries and Asymmetries Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions and Inclusion The Post 2030 Agenda: People and Progress Defending Democracy: Society and Sovereignty Agenda for Day 1: Raisina Dialogue 2024 India-Armenia Dialogue India and Armenia are building a partnership at a time when the global political and economic order is undergoing a reinvention. India-Armenia ties stand at the precipice of a reinvention of global geo-economics. The Yerevan-New Delhi bilateral is expanding into a definitive strategic relationship, with significant cooperation from the defence sector to critical technologies, minerals to pharmaceuticals. This dialogue aims to bring the best minds from both sides to the Raisina platform and develop both ambitious blueprints and practical steps. UNSC First: Reforming Multilateralism As the world faces new wars, resurgent conflicts and human crises the United Nations Security Councils ability to function effectively and fairly is being questioned ever more widely. Its permanent membership does not reflect the reality of representation and influence in the 21st century, and its resolutions efficacy is dwindling. The wars in Gaza and Ukraine are a strong indictment of the Security Councils role; and thus, calls for its equitable and just reform must be answered. 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! Applications are now open for people who want to be part of change for Victorian small businesses by joining the Small Business Ministerial Council or Multicultural Business Ministerial Council. Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman put out the call for people with experience working in and with Victorian small businesses to apply to be part of the Small Business Ministerial Council or Multicultural Business Ministerial Council. With small businesses comprising 97% of the businesses in Victoria, the Councils will play an important role in providing advice and giving feedback to the Minister for Small Business, delivering a direct line into Government decision-making. Small businesses are at the heart of local economies and communities, creating local jobs, growth and better opportunities. By working together with the Councils and other key stakeholders, the Victorian Government is ensuring small businesses are heard, consulted and engaged in this dynamic sector driving stronger outcomes for businesses that contribute so much to Victoria. If you are interested in shaping Government policy, engaging with businesses from across the State and contributing your expertise to drive better outcomes for small business, the Victorian Government wants to hear from you. Applications are now open for interested people to b e considered for appointment as a chairperson or member to the Small Business Ministerial Council or Multicultural Business Ministerial Council. We are looking for experienced people to apply for the positions of chairperson or member of the Multicultural Business Ministerial Council and Small Business Ministerial Council. Each Council is made up of a chair and 8 to 10 Council members. If youre interested and have the right experience, we encourage you to submit your application, the statement said. Both Councils provide advice and feedback to the Minister for Small Business on a broad range of issues affecting small businesses in Victoria. The Councils provide a voice for small business across government and offer an opportunity to make a positive impact for Victorian business owners. Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman said: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and Victoria is home to so many dedicated and passionate people working in the small business sector. The Small Business and Multicultural Business Councils will be important forums to drive stronger outcomes and opportunities for Victorian businesses. To nominate or find out more visit business.vic.gov.au/ministerial-councils Additional conta td details: smallbusiness.council@ecodev.vic.gov.au Applications close at 11.59pm on 14 March 2024. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, launched a fresh attack on the Gandhis, predicting electoral doom for the Congress wherever their "Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra" passes. He claimed the campaign coincides with Congress party infighting and predicted "Anyay" (injustice) for the party where the Yatra goes. Addressing a separate event, Sarma lambasted Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of lacking substance and peddling "lies." He criticised Gandhi for criticising Modi while using infrastructure built by his government and questioned his tour's motives. The BJP echoed Sarma's views, predicting nationwide losses for Congress due to the Yatra. Also Read | Akhilesh Yadav to join Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra with a rider Samajwadi Party will not participate until Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi took a veiled jab at Modi, claiming he witnessed people "lying drunk on roads" in Varanasi, Modi's constituency. He linked this to his vision of an unequal India where power and resources are concentrated in the hands of a few. These comments come as the Yatra nears Varanasi, potentially setting the stage for a direct confrontation. Also Read | Himanta tells a tale, says Rahul Gandhi asked Congress MLAs to disrupt Assam Assembly during Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra Rahul Gandhi was summoned by MP/MLA court on February 20 in connection with a 2018 case over using derogatory remarks against Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a Bengaluru conference. The complaint was filed by the then BJP District Vice President, Vijay Mishra, according to a report by Livemint. In a post on microblogging website X, Ramesh informed that the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra which has entered its 37th day today, will be paused on Tuesday morning and will resume from Fursatganj in Amethi at 2 pm. "Rahul Gandhi has been issued a summons to appear in the District Civil Court in Sultanpur tomorrow, February 20th, morning in connection with a defamation case filed by a BJP leader on August 4th, 2018. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will, therefore, pause tomorrow morning and will resume the February 20th program at 2 pm from Fursatganj in Amethi," the Congress leader posted on X. Rahul Gandhi was subsequently granted bail by a special court in Sultanpur in this defamation case dating back to 2018. 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 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is considering a 10% water cut across Mumbai from the beginning of March as water . Since the beginning of February however, the city has spent approximately 310 lakh litres of water to deep clean roads and combat air pollution. Residents have also taken to social media platforms to criticise the royal wastage of water by BMC" in recent days. According to reports, the hydraulic department of the civic body washes 422 roads covering around 659.09 km with water drawn from bore wells and sewage treatment plants on a daily basis. 211 tankers are deployed for this while 18 misting machines cover another 59.5 km of roadways to mitigate dust pollution. The scheme was launched by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in early December as a weekly effort to curtail dust and improve overall sanitation. It was converted to a daily drive at the beginning of February. Action is taken between 6.30 am and 2 pm across 25 wards with 175 tons of dust being collected. There are at least 100 locations in 25 wards from where we draw water from borewells and sewage treatment plants every day for misting machines to combat air pollution," chief engineer Prashant Tayshetye told Hindustan Times. K west ward in the Andheri-Juhu stretch reportedly leads the list with use of 1.20 lakh litres of water. This is followed by the K east ward spanning Andheri east, Jogeshwari east and Vile Parle east which uses 1.14 lakh litres. 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! Delhi Chalo march today: Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should come forward to accept their demands and the farmers should be allowed to march towards Delhi. He said, An amount of 1.5-2 lakh crore is not a huge amount...We should be allowed to remove these barriers and march towards Delhi." We tried our best from our side. We attended the meetings, every point was discussed and now the decision has to be taken by the central government. We will remain peaceful," Pandher added. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said protesting farmers, who have been camping at two border points between Punjab and Haryana after they were stopped by security personnel, will peacefully march towards Delhi. "Our intention is not to disturb peace, "Dallewal said ahead of the farmers' plan to march towards the national capital. He also condemned the Centre for setting up multi-layered barricades at the border points between Punjab and Haryana to prevent them from heading towards Delhi. "It is our request that we want to go to Delhi peacefully. The government should itself remove the barricades and give us the permission to march towards Delhi and make arrangements for our sitting in Delhi," Dallewal told reporters at the Shambhu border point. Also Read | Live updates on farmers Delhi Chalo march today The farmers protesting at two border points between Punjab and Haryana will resume their "Delhi Chalo" march on Wednesday after they rejected the Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by government agencies for five years. Thousands of farmers, who began their march to Delhi on February 13, were stopped at the Haryana border itself, where they clashed with security personnel. The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since then. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the "Delhi Chalo" march to press the Centre to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee on the MSP for crops and farm loan waiver. (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! Farmers will resume their Delhi Chalo agitation towards the national capital on Wednesday, February 21. Police officials have heightened security arrangements at various borders of Delhi and the national capital region, warning commuters to brace for traffic congestion. Delhi Police informed that it has already deployed many police personnel and multi-layered barricades have been settled at Tikri and Singhu border. These two border points of Delhi and Haryana have also been sealed. In addition, two lanes of the Ghazipur border have been shut. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Delhi Police said, "On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 9.30 am to 11.30 am." Also Read | Live updates on farmers Delhi Chalo protest Apart from Delhi, farmers have planned to converge on private vehicles and tractors in Greater Noida at the Knowledge Park metro station. They will cover the India Expo Mart, Sharda University, LG roundabout, and Moser Bear roundabout during the march, said police. The cops added that diversions can be placed from Galgotia Cut, Pari Chowk, LG Roundabout, Moser Bear Roundabout, Durga Talkies Roundabout, and Surajpur Chowk, if required today. However, emergency vehicles will be allowed to commute during traffic diversions. Police also advised to use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience and issued the traffic helpline number 9971009001, in case of emergency. In Haryana, the Manohar Lal Khattar government extended the temporary ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts of the state till Wednesday i.e. February 21 in the wake of farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' agitation. The state government in its order stated that the conditions are still critical and tense in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa districts and that there is a clear potential for disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets and disturbance of law and order in these districts. The order has been issued under Section 5 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules 2017. Protesting farmers have been staying put at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab's border with Haryana after their 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the Centre for various demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops, was stopped by security forces which led to clashes last week. Farmer leaders taking part in agitation on Monday rejected the Centre's proposal of procuring pulses, maize and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers' interest and announced that they will march towards the national capital on Wednesday. (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! Farmers from multiple states on Wednesday resumed the Delhi Chalo march after the fourth round of talks with Union ministers failed. However, later in the day, farmer union leaders put the march on hold for two days after a protester was allegedly killed and about 12 police personnel were injured in clashes at Khanori, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. Farmer unions taking part in the agitation had rejected the Centre's proposal of procuring pulses, maize and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers' interest. Here are 10 points to note about the ongoing agitation, from the suspension of the Delhi Chalo march and the chilli powder incident to SKMs planned meeting on Thursday: Union Minister Arjun Munda on Wednesday invited farmer leaders to discuss the various issues raised by protesting farmers like MSP, crop diversification, stubble burning, and FIR in the next round of talks (fifth round). However, farmers are yet to confirm if they will hold another round of talks with the government after they rejected the Centre's proposal of MSP on five crops for 5 years. Supporting the farmer's agitation, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said his government will register an FIR to investigate how a young farmer was killed at Khanori border point. The Punjab chief minister further claimed that he is getting threats about imposing presidential rule in the state but he wont bow down to such threats. Farmer union leaders put the 'Delhi Chalo' march on hold for two days on Wednesday after a protester was allegedly killed and about 12 police personnel injured in clashes at Khanori, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said at Shambhu that they will decide the next course of action on Friday evening. Haryana Police claimed that 12 police officials were "seriously injured" amid unrest at the Data Singh-Khanori border. The police alleged that the protesters surrounded the police from all sides, poured chilli powder in the stubble and burnt it." They attacked the policemen using sticks and maces. Stone pelting was also done, the police said. A protesting farmer succumbed to a head injury at the Khanori border, the Indian Express reported while tweeting a video of the incident. Clashes intensified as authorities deployed tear gas shells at Shambhu and Khanauri border points, injuring several farmers, the report added. However, the Haryana Police dismissed reports of the death of one farmer as "rumours". They said no farmers died on Tuesday. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday sent an advisory to the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab asking it to maintain law and order in the wake of the farmer's agitation, PTI reported citing sources. The MHA's move followed a report that estimated that over 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses as well as small vehicles. Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait on Wednesday said that a crucial meeting of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) is scheduled for Thursday, where farmers from across the country will convene to decide the future course of the agitation. "The key issues of the farmers are the MSP guarantee, the electricity amendment bill and the implementation of the Swaminathan committee report. If there is no guarantee on MSP, farmers of the whole country will face problems," PTI quoted Tikait as saying. The Haryana Police on Wednesday fired tear gas to disperse protesting farmers as they resumed a march to the capital, equipped with cranes and excavators. Later the police issued an advisory asking the owners of Poclains and JCBs not to provide the services of their equipment to the protestors. The police wrote on X, Owners and operators of Poclains, JCBs: Pls do not provide the services of your equipment to the protestors. Pl withdraw these machines from the protest site. These machines may be used to cause harm to security forces, it's a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable." Jhajjar Police have taken out a flag march in Haryana's Bahadurgarh amid the ongoing farmers' protests. In the wake of ongoing farmers' protest, Deputy Commissioner of Police Delhi (North) Sagar Singh Kalsi said, We have made strict security arrangements in view of the festivals. We have deployed personnel across the district and have deployed drones for surveillance. We are also conducting anti-sabotage checks in market areas. For the farmers protest, we are taking intelligence inputs from adjoining border districts of UP. We have placed barricades at highways as well as other intersections." As farmers resumed their protests today, traffic was hit on Delhi-Gurugram, Delhi-Bahadurgarh and several other roads after heavy deployment was made to ensure law and order. 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! Multinational companies (MNCs) in Karnataka should display the number of Kannadigas employed on notice boards at their respective offices, Karnataka Minister for Backward Class Development, and Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S. Tangadagi said on Wednesday. Tangadagi said: Multinational companies will be required to display the number of Kannadigas employed on notice boards at their campuses. Failure to comply with the language requirement may result in the cancellation of licences, as stated by the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government." The recent amendment to the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act 2022 applies to a wide range of establishments, including commercial, industrial, and business undertakings, trusts, counselling centres, hospitals, laboratories, amusement centres, and hotels. On February 15, the Karnataka legislative assembly passed a bill that mandates Kannada displays of businesses and establishments must occupy 60 per cent of the space on sign boards. Non-compliance would lead to cancellation of the licences of businesses, the government had asserted in the Assembly. According to the amendment, all the entities, which operate with the approval and sanction of the state government or local authorities, are required to display 60 per cent of their name in Kannada on their name boards, and Kannada must be prominently displayed at the top of the name board. Information in Kannada shall be displayed in the upper half of the signboard, the bill said in its statement of objects and reasons. The move is aimed at promoting the use of the Kannada language in public and private sectors. Moving the bill for the consideration of the Assembly, Tangadagi had said that the government is framing rules to enforce the law. In the rules, we will provide for cancellation of licences. Only when licences are cancelled will businesses and establishments feel the pinch. At the time of issuing fresh licences or renewing existing licences, we will first ensure that they have complied with the rules on using Kannada in (name) boards," Tangadagi had 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! At least three Indians allege they were conned into working as "army security helpers" in Russia, only to be forced to fight alongside Russian troops on the border with Ukraine. One victim described being given basic weapons training and thrown into combat near Donetsk, facing bullets and fearing for his life, according to a report by The Hindu. The families of these men, from states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Punjab, have reached out to authorities for help, including to Member of Parliament, Asaduddin Owaisi. They claim the men were promised jobs with high salaries but ended up trapped in a dangerous situation. One man, who wished to remain anonymous, said he and two others were recruited through a YouTube channel and transported to Russia in November 2023. After signing contracts promising non-combat roles, they were allegedly given weapons training and deployed to the war zone in January, the report added. "We faced bullets 7-8 times," he recounted, describing a close call where a companion was killed. He managed to escape but remains undocumented and fearful in Russia, as per the report. On November 13, we were admitted into a camp and taken to a deserted place around two-and-half hours away from Moscow. We contacted the Indian agents and they assured us that we would be posted as helpers. We lived in tents and were trained to handle weapons. On January 4, we were sent to Donetsk to fight," he said, as quoted in the report. He said that after they were forced to fight, he found an opportunity to escape and threw away his weapon. But I was caught and threatened at gunpoint. They asked me to transport goods from one building to another. The commander told us to walk maintaining a gap of five metres so that we do not become easy targets. In the short walk, we faced bullets 7 to 8 times, and a local accompanying me was killed. On January 22, I managed to flee and got admitted to a hospital with frostbite injuries," the victim said, as quoted by The Hindu. While some Indians volunteered to fight for Ukraine's International Legion, this instance marks the first reported case of Indians forced to fight for Russia. The families accuse an agent named Faisal Khan of misleading the men, and pleas to the Indian Embassy in Moscow have reportedly gone unanswered, the report added. The Embassy declined to comment on this specific case but acknowledged following up on complaints. However, they mentioned challenges due to some individuals wanting to stay abroad despite the situation. This incident raises concerns about exploitation and misinformation targeting vulnerable Indians seeking work abroad. The families urge the government to take immediate action to ensure the safety and repatriation of these men. 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! Accusing discrimination against Dalits and other backward classes in Prime Minister Narendra Modi s Ram Rajya, former Congress president and Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the Centre has failed to generate enough employment opportunities for the downtrodden constituting "90 per cent of the population," in the country, news agency PTI reported. The former Congress president was addressing a public meeting at the Ghantaghar intersection of Kanpur during his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.' "What kind of Ram Rajya is this where backward classes, Dalits, tribals and minorities, who constitute about 90 per cent of the total population, cannot get jobs," Rahul Gandhi said. Also Read | What is Blue Aadhaar card? How to apply and other key details "Fifty per cent of the population in the country belongs to backward classes, 15 per cent are Dalits, 8 per cent are tribals and 15 per cent are minorities. Shout as much as you want but you can't get employment in this country. If you belong to backward, Dalit, tribal or poor general category then you cannot get a job. Narendra Modi does not want you people to get jobs," Gandhi added. Highlighting the class and caste divide in the country, the former Congress president expressed concerns that the Dalits and backward classes lack representation in media, big industries, and the bureaucracy. He also drew attention to the hunger-related deaths in the country. "You saw the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. How many people were from backward classes, and how many were Dalits and tribals? The tribal president (Droupadi Murmu) was also not invited. Dalit former President (Ramnath Kovind) was also not allowed inside," he alleged. Retorting the demand for a caste census, Gandhi said such a survey could help reveal the backward classes' well-being in the country and how much money they have. "We have said that the biggest revolutionary step for the progress of India is caste-wise census," he added. The member of parliament from Wayanad also alleged that the majority of the countrys wealth is in the hands of two-three per cent of the population. "Two-three per cent people are ruling you. These people are the Maharajas of the new India," he said. The Congress leader also criticised the Modi government for several of its decisions, including demonetisation, GST, and Agniveer scheme. "Sometimes your papers get leaked, sometimes you are fired from the job, GST is imposed on you, demonetisation is imposed, your government recruitment is not done. The way for you to join the army has also been closed by them (Modi government) through Agniveer Yojna," he 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! On February 21, eminent jurist and senior advocate Fali Sam Nariman passed away at the age of 95. He stood out as a distinguished figure in Indian legal history. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1991 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007. While reacting to his demise, lawyer Prashant Bhushan called him Bhishma Pitamah of the Lawyer community". Born in 1929, he made his mark as a constitutional lawyer and senior advocate to the Supreme Court of India. His journey in the legal field began after graduating from law. He was respected for his expertise, particularly in constitutional law and international arbitration. Nariman's career took a significant leap forward when he was appointed a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 1971. Before Memory Fades is the autobiography of Fali S Nariman. Rohinton Nariman, his son, served as a Supreme Court of India judge as well. He was the Additional Solicitor General of India in 1972-1975. He resigned after the Emergency had been declared. He remained one of the most distinguished jurists, recognised globally for his contributions. Landmark cases Over the years, Nariman was involved in several landmark cases that have shaped Indian law. Nariman argued for Union Carbide in the Bhopal gas disaster case. He helped make a deal that gave $470 million to the victims outside of court. But, when he was asked if it was a mistake, he said yes. Yes, I think so. Because I thought this was one more case which would add a feather to my cap. I mean one is always ambitious at that age. But I found later but then it's too late, one can't walk out of the case one has already taken up that it was not a case, it was a tragedy. And in a tragedy, who is right, who is wrong etc., all becomes marred in great deal of justifiable emotion," he told The Hindu. In 2014, he represented J Jayalalitha in court. He successfully got bail for the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu after it had initially been denied. Nariman was the lawyer for the Gujarat Government in the Narmada rehabilitation case. However, he quit after Christians had been killed". The Christians were harassed, the Bibles were burnt and even Christian men and women were killed. In protest, I went to the Minister and I was told that this burning of Bibles and Christians wont happen, but it still happened and I returned the brief and a big chaos was created," he told Bar & Bench. 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! Kisan Majdoor Morcha, the coalition of farm unions spearheading the farmers protest, has prepared to resume the Delhi Chalo march on Wednesday. After four rounds of negotiations with the union government failed to yield results, the Shambhu border crossing between Punjab and Haryana looks set for a faceoff between protestors and police forces today morning. The first rounds of tear gas shells were fired by police forces around noon. The farmer protests come on the backdrop of subdued agricultural production following repeated climate shocks including uneven rainfall last year. Farm incomes were also hit by export curbs announced by the government to tame local consumer prices. For farmers, who were promised that their incomes will be doubled by 2022as per a government set targetthe crisis of profitability has translated into a rallying cry for revamp of the minimum support price (MSP) regime. During negotiations on the night of 18 February, the government offered an alternative to the farmers demand to make support prices a legal right. Farm unions rejected the limited offer and began preparations for the Delhi march. What is on offer and why was it rejected by farmers? The Centre offered to purchase five cropsthree varieties of pulses such as tur, moong and urad, plus maize and cottonat MSP for the next five years, under a contract farming arrangement. The scheme was offered after farm unions said during talks that guaranteed support prices on crops other than rice and wheat will help them to transition to less water intensive and more soil-friendly crops like pulses. Currently, Punjab is facing a groundwater crisis with water tables depleting fast due to rice cultivation. Farm unions rejected the offer saying it will only help those who switch from rice to these alternative crops, but not available to farmers who are already growing pulses and cotton. They also reiterated that farmers are not looking for a Punjab-specific scheme, but a legal guarantee for all 23 non-perishable crops for which support prices are announced every year, for the entire country. Moreover, they want a resolution to other demands which include a loan waiver and monthly pensions. Can alternative crops provide farmers returns comparable to paddy? An underlying reason why farmers rejected the offer is because paddy yields in Punjab are far higher than what pulses can potentially offer. So, even at support prices, profitability per unit of land is significantly higher for paddy than pulses. Data from the agriculture ministry shows that productivity of urad (black gram) in Punjab is around a tonne per hectare or lower. This compares with rice yields of 4-5 tonnes per hectare. Data from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), which recommends support prices to the government, show that an average paddy grower in Punjab earns over 88,000 per hectare after deducting input costs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and hired labour the highest in India. In comparison, the highest per hectare returns for maize is 61,000 (in Andhra Pradesh). Among pulses, the highest returns are 75,000 per hectare for moong (Punjab) and 53,000 for urad (West Bengal). This means that farmers in Punjab need a better dealin the form of either a cash bonus over MSP or input subsidiesto switch from rice to less resource intensive crops. Pulses require less of chemical inputs, but due to lower productivity, farmers prefer to grow cereals in irrigated land. Moreover, pulses are more sensitive to freak weather such as excess rains when compared with paddy. So, what is likely to happen next? Agriculture minister Arjun Munda said on Wednesday morning that the government is ready to discuss all issues raised by farmers in the next round of talks. It is likely that union leaders will take up this offer and talks will resume. A larger coalition of farm unions, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, which spearheaded the year-long protests in Delhis borders beginning 2020 is likely to take a call whether to join the protests on ground; a meeting of its members is scheduled on Thursday. In all likelihood, the numbers of protesting farmers are likely to swell if a resolution is not reached soon. Billionaire founder of Daiso Hirotake Yano. Photo by EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award Hirotake Yano, the founder of global retail chain Daiso, has died at 80 of heart failure. He died on Feb. 12, the company said in a statement Monday, adding that close family members held a private funeral and a commemoration would be organized. Yano, after graduating from Chuo University in Tokyo in 1967, managed his father-in-law's fishing company but it went bankrupt. In 1972, while in his late 20s, he opened a retail company called Yano Shoten and in 1977 changed its name to Daiso. The store sold products at 100 yen (which was then equivalent to 30 U.S. cents) apiece and soon became successful. Yano was in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index with total assets of $1.9 billion at the time of his passing. Daiso sells around 76,000 items, adding hundreds more every month, mostly household and stationery products at under $1 apiece. Vietnam has nine Daiso stores in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Phu Quoc that sell products costing a maximum of VND40,000 ($1.63). There were 4,360 Daiso stores in Japan at the end of last year and 990 in other countries. Humanitarian aid deliveries in the Gaza Strip have slowed to a trickle, as security across the embattled enclave deteriorates, leaving 2.2 million Palestinians faced with spreading famine, disease and desperation. Efforts to provide lifesaving aid such as food, medicine and other essentials have been paralyzed by an expanding security void, extensive looting of aid trucks, Israeli military strikes on humanitarian assets, Israeli restrictions on the flow of aid into the northern Gaza Strip, and protests by Israeli activists who have blocked trucks from delivering aid, according to United Nations officials and aid groups. On Tuesday, the U.N.s World Food Programone of the two main agencies responsible for distributing food in Gazasaid it was temporarily suspending aid deliveries to the northern Gaza Strip after hungry Palestinians looted several trucks driving through the area. A large-scale expansion of the flow of assistance to northern Gaza is urgently needed to avoid disaster," the World Food Program warned. An average of 65 trucks a day reached Gaza between Feb. 9 and 18, compared with around 150 trucks daily in the weeks prior, according to data from the U.N., which oversees the humanitarian response in Gaza. On one day last week, just four trucks were able to enter. Before the war, around 600 commercial and aid trucks arrived in Gaza each day. Humanitarian aid enters Gaza through two crossings in the south of the strip near Rafah, one on the Egyptian border and one on the border with Israel, known as Kerem Shalom. The collapse of law and order within Gaza is affecting aid deliveries through both crossings, with violent assaults on trucks and their drivers becoming more frequent this month, according to U.N. officials. The near-daily attacks have compromised the ability of the U.N. and aid groups to carry out humanitarian operations in the Gaza Strip, they said. The U.N. is sending fewer trucks into the strip as a result. The looting of aid trucks has increasingly become a problem in Gaza, largely because of the shortfall in basic goods. But until last week, violent attacks on truck drivers and U.N. staff were rare. U.N. officials said it was incumbent upon the Israeli military to provide security for the distribution of aid across the Gaza Strip, where Israels four-month-old campaign against Hamas has created a widespread humanitarian crisis. The Israeli forces have a responsibility to enable humanitarian operations across Gaza by ensuring safety, facilitating access to all areas in need, including the north, preserving law and order and allowing basic operating requirements of humanitarians like communications equipment," the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, the main U.N. agency providing aid in Gaza, said Wednesday. Israeli officials didnt respond Wednesday to requests for comment. The increasingly dire situation at the enclave has fueled escalating scenes of desperation, with young children stuffing flour that has been strewn in the dirt into their pockets.On Monday, Shukri Filfil, 21, a content creator, said he went to one aid point in Gaza to try to get a bag of flour. The moment the trucks arrived, people attacked it and started taking flour," he said.Israel declared war on Oct. 7 after Hamas militants launched a deadly cross-border attack where 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 240 others were taken hostage, according to Israeli officials. Israel has vowed to root out Hamas from the Gaza Strip and secure the release of about 130 hostages still believed to be held by Palestinian militants. More than 29,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, have been killed, according to Gaza health officials, who dont distinguish between civilians and fighters. The U.N. says that 1.7 million Palestiniansnearly 80 percent of the Gaza Strip populationhave been forced from their homes and now rely on humanitarian aid to survive. Most of the displaced Palestinians live in temporary shelters and tents near the Egypt border, where Israel has vowed to launch a new military campaign into the southern city of Rafah in the coming weeks. The U.S. and other world leaders have called on Israel to hold off on the new military assault until they take steps to safely move the estimated 1.5 million civilians sheltering there out of the area. Israel has agreed to allow 200 aid trucks to enter Gaza each day. In December, Israel reopened the Kerem Shalom border crossing, but no trucks have crossed into Gaza since Sunday, according to a U.N. official. The flow of aid there has also been hampered by protests in recent weeks. The protesters, a mix of right-wing Israelis, military reservists and relatives of hostages believed to be held in Gaza, have vowed to block aid into Gaza until all those held by Palestinian militants are released. The Israeli military didnt respond to requests for comment on how it was handling the protests. Israel has severely constricted the flow of aid into northern Gaza. The U.N. said that the Israeli military had allowed just 12 of 77 humanitarian missions into the Gaza Strip between Jan. 1 and Feb. 15. Those restrictions have increased the sense of desperation in the northern Gaza Strip, where aid groups are warning of an increasingly dire situation for children. The Gaza Strip is poised to witness an explosion in preventable child deaths which would compound the already unbearable level of child deaths in Gaza," said Ted Chaiban, Unicef deputy executive director for humanitarian action and supply operations. Anat Peled contributed to this article. Write to Dion Nissenbaum at dion.nissenbaum@wsj.com and Margherita Stancati at margherita.stancati@wsj.com The United States exercised its veto power at the United Nations Security Council on February 20, blocking a draft resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, Reuters reported. The resolution, put forward by Algeria, sought an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, while the US has pressed for a temporary ceasefire tied to the release of hostages held by Hamas. Of the 15-member council, 13 voted in favour of the Algerian-drafted resolution, while Britain abstained. This marks the third US' veto of a resolution since the current war began on October 7. The US had also previously used its veto to block an amendment to a resolution in December, the Reuters report added. Also Read | Too many have been killed: UK's Prince William pleas for end of Gaza war For a UN Security Council resolution to be adopted, at least nine votes in favour are required, with no vetoes from any of the five permanent members: the US, UK, France, Russia, or China. Stances Before the Vote Algeria's UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama argued in favour of the resolution, stressing it as support for the Palestinians' right to life. On the other hand, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed concerns that the resolution could hinder ongoing talks involving the US, Egypt, Israel, and Qatar aimed at securing a pause in the conflict and the release of hostages. Earlier on February 17 too Thomas-Greenfield stated that demanding an immediate, unconditional ceasefire without an agreement on the release of hostages could potentially prolong the conflict. Also Read | Weather news: IMD issues Yellow alert for hailstorm in THESE states; Wet spell continues with snowfall, rainfall today The Algerian-drafted resolution, which the US vetoed, did not link the ceasefire to the release of hostages, but separately called for both an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages. The resolution demanded a halt to the conflict, which has claimed over 29,000 lives in Gaza, according to Palestinian authorities; and has displaced over 80 percent of the population, as per an Al Jazeera report. Reactions and US Counter-Proposal The Palestinian UN envoy, Riyad Mansour, criticised the US veto, stating it sends a message allowing Israel to continue actions without consequences. Also Read | Elon Musk shares clip on illegal immigration, calls it alarming; nearly 73 lakh have entered USA under Joe Biden Israel's UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan argued against the focus on a ceasefire, contending it would ensure the survival of Hamas. In response, the US has proposed its own draft resolution, advocating for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. This marks a departure from the country's previous reluctance to use the term 'ceasefire' in UN actions related to the conflict. The proposed resolution supports a temporary ceasefire contingent on the release of hostages and calls for unimpeded humanitarian assistance. Background and General Assembly Action The current conflict began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties and hostages. In December, the UN General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, reflecting global sentiment on the conflict. Washington's new resolution is the second attempt since October to address the situation at the Security Council. Also Read | THIS city imposes fine of 10,000 for blocking emergency vehicles in traffic. Details here Russia and China had previously vetoed the US' first attempt in late October. Despite traditionally shielding Israel from UN actions, the US had abstained twice before, allowing resolutions supporting aid to Gaza and calling for pauses in fighting to be adopted. (With inputs from Reuters and Al Jazeera) 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! Britain's Prince William issued a passionate plea on February 20, urging an immediate end to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. He emphasised the immense human suffering endured in the enclave, stressing the urgent need for peace to prevent further loss of life, according to a report by Reuters. In an unexpected move for a member of the royal family, Prince William highlighted the critical importance of delivering aid to Gaza's population and demanded the release of hostages held by Hamas. "I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack (on Israel) on October 7. Too many have been killed," William said in a statement, the report added. William's office stated that in 2018, he achieved the milestone of being the first senior British royal to undertake an official visit to both Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory. Since then, he has maintained a close interest in the region, according to his office, the report added. In response to Prince William, Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy said: "Israelis, of course, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible, and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the October 7 atrocities is dismantled." Kensington Palace added that Britain's Foreign Office had been briefed about William's statement before he made it. "Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home," he said, as quoted by Reuters. The 41-year-old prince paid a visit to the British Red Cross headquarters in London, on February 20, where he learned about their efforts to assist individuals impacted by conflicts in the Middle East. "I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible," he said. "There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. Its critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released." In a further comment, Israel's Levy said: "We appreciate the Prince of Wales call for Hamas to free the hostages. We also recall with gratitude his statement from October 11 condemning Hamas terror attacks and reaffirming Israels right of self-defence against them." Next week, William is scheduled to visit a synagogue where he will engage with young individuals actively combating hatred and antisemitism. Last year marked a distressing peak in antisemitic incidents in Britain, as reported by a Jewish advisory body. As his father, King Charles, is presently on a hiatus from official public duties due to cancer treatment, there's anticipation for William to assume more prominent roles. Charles has called the Hamas attacks in southern Israel "barbaric acts of terrorism", and also appealed for greater religious tolerance at a time of "international turmoil". Worldwide calls for immediate end to Gaza conflict Calls for an immediate halt to the conflict in Gaza have intensified globally in recent weeks, particularly as Israel prepares to extend its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah. This area has become a refuge for over 1 million of the 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza. Local health authorities report that more than 29,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the conflict. The escalation began when Israel invaded the enclave in response to a Hamas attack, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people, predominantly civilians, and the capture of 253 hostages. 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! Russia announced the death of Vladimir Putin 's critic Alexei Navalny on 16 February, following which the United Kingdom froze assets of six Russian prison bosses, who were reportedly in charge of the Arctic penal colony housing Navalny. According to media reports, the sanctioned six Russians, including the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, will also be banned from travelling to UK. The six prison officials, who were sanctioned under UK human rights regulations, include Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who oversaw the brutal prison camp where the anti-corruption campaigner was kept in solitary confinement. Western superpowers have blamed the death of Alexei Navalny on Russian authorities, including President Vladimir Putin. It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him,'' Foreign Secretary David Cameron said. That's why we're today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months.'' He added, Those responsible for Navalny's brutal treatment should be under no illusion we will hold them accountable." Alexei Navalny also suffered from being denied medical treatment and from having to walk in temperatures dropping to minus 32 degrees Celsius, the Foreign Office said in a statement. David Cameron had vowed action on the matter on Saturday, while London summoned the Russian ambassador to make clear it held Russian authorities "fully responsible" for Navalny's death. Russia, which has denied involvement in the death of the 47-year-old former lawyer, said on Saturday that it was unacceptable for Britain to interfere in its internal affairs. The European Union also moved closer this week to imposing new sanctions against Moscow over its war on Ukraine, as Navalny's widow Yulia Navalnaya said Putin must be held accountable. Germany, Lithuania and Sweden were among EU countries calling for specific new penalties against Russia over Navalny's death. Britain has imposed sanctions on more than 1,700 people and entities under its Russia sanctions regime since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the government said. It is no secret that Russian President Vladimir Putin's critics have empirically faced early death, nerve agents, poison or fall from window. While those close to the victims and the few survivors have blamed Russian authorities for the assassination attempts, Kremlin has denied any involvement in the ill-fate of their foes. Before Navalny faced his impending death for opposing Putin and being jailed for three years now, mercenary group Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, mysteriously lost his life in a plane crash, only days after he led a rebellion towards Moscow, aiming to overthrow the Russian military leadership. Political observers have also pointed out that Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is seeking a sixth term as the leader of Russia, may have orchestrated the death of Alexei Navalny, setting perfectly into the frame of silencing by means of killing his critics. 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! Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council on Monday appointed its foreign minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak as the country's new prime minister. Outgoing PM Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed will take on the role of an advisor to the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Reuters reported. Bin Mubarak came to prominence in 2015 when he was kidnapped by the country's Iran-aligned Houthis while he served as Yemen's presidential chief of staff during a power struggle with then-President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. Yemen, a nation in the Arabian Peninsula, is experiencing increased tensions as a result of a wave of Red Sea attacks on ships by Houthi rebels, which have triggered retaliatory strikes by the United States and the United Kingdom recently. Former Yemeni ambassador to the US, Bin Mubarak, is widely viewed as a fierce opponent of the Houthi rebels, according to Al Jazeera. He first gained prominence in 2015 when, amid a power struggle with then-President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, he was abducted by the Houthis while serving as Yemen's presidential chief of staff, as per ANI reports. The seizure of bin Mubarak contributed to the political unrest in Yemen, which led to hostilities between the Houthis and Hadi's presidential guards and the resignation of the government and the president. In 2018, Bin Mubarak was also designated as the country's representative to the United Nations. The Houthi rebels, who are an Iran-aligned group, started the strikes in retaliation for Israel's Gaza conflict. The Houthis have said that they will not stop attacking until Israel ends the hostilities in Gaza. The US military on Monday said it had struck explosive uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) operated by Houthi rebels in Yemen, days after a wave of joint strikes with Britain aimed at stopping continued attacks on international shipping. American forces also 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. (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! Investing in public education systems is crucial for countries seeking to leverage their demographic dividend. South Koreas economic development, often called the Miracle on the Han River, exemplifies the impact of strategic educational investments. During its rapid industrialization, the emphasis on education significantly improved literacy rates and provided the necessary skills for industrial and technological sectors. Empirical research supports the notion that educational investment is positively correlated with economic growth. According to World Bank studies, each additional year of schooling is associated with up to a 10% increase in individual earnings, and countries prioritizing educational quality generally exhibit higher economic growth rates. Similarly, a study by Unicef found that each additional year of schooling is associated with an increase of 0.37 percentage points in GDP growth. This can rise up to 1 percentage point with improved learning outcomes. As the demographic window narrows with time, the elderly populations proportion is set to rise, gradually diminishing the dividend. This transient nature of a demographic advantage underscores the urgency for strategic interventions to harness its potential before the contours shift towards an older demographic profile. In this context, strategic investments in education are paramount in amplifying the benefits of the demographic dividend. This is precisely what India is doing. Data for 2023 from the Unified Digital Information on School Education (UDISE+) tracker under the Union education ministry shows that between 2014 and 2023, there were significant advancements in structural and gender parity aspects. The pupil-teacher ratio (PTR), a crucial indicator, has seen a remarkable decrease across all levels of education, signifying smaller class sizes and more individualized attention to students. There has been PTR reduction from 29 to 23 at the primary level, 26 to 18 at the upper-primary, 26 to 17 at the secondary and 38 to 26 at the higher-secondary levels, reflecting a concerted effort to improve the quality of education through increased teacher recruitment. Further, the teaching staff has attained a gender balance, with female teachers now comprising 52.3% of the workforce in 2022-23, up from 46.9% in 2014-15, thanks to the hiring of over 4.1 million new teachers, 60% of whom are female. In conjunction with infrastructural improvements, there has been a qualitative leap in student outcomes, particularly in secondary and higher- secondary board exams. Between 2013 and 2022, the number of students within the public education system passing with 60% and above has surged, with pass students in Class 10 rising from 5.8 million to nearly 9.8 million and in Class 12 from 3.6 million to over 4.3 million. There are also major gains among female students, whose pass rates rose by 72% in Class 10 sand 87% in Class 12, surpassing the improvement rates of their male counterparts. To further harness the demographic dividend, state-level educational reforms are crucial, given educations place in the concurrent list of Indias Constitution. This column series will explore key challenges facing Indias public education, starting with its pyramidal structure. This structure, a by-product of well-meaning policies, mirrors the Delhi Cobra Effect: as the story goes, British incentives to decrease Delhis cobra population inadvertently encouraged cobra breeding, thereby worsening the problem after the programme ended and the snakes were freed. Similarly, the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009 aimed to ensure universal access to education in the age group of 6 to 14 years. This Act, with its stipulated distance norms for primary and upper-primary schools (1km and 3km respectively), has significantly increased the number of schools that are within accessible walking distance for children. This effort led to expanded educational infrastructure, particularly at the primary and upper-primary levels, to comply with the Acts accessibility requirements, resulting in a more decentralized distribution of schools, especially in rural and remote areas. However, the Acts focus on elementary education has inadvertently led to a relative scarcity of secondary and higher secondary schools in some states. Resources have thus been disproportionately allocated for elementary schooling, often at the expense of developing secondary and higher-secondary infrastructure. UDISE+ data reveals a stark decline in enrolments within Indias public education system: from 122.5 million in primary schools, it plummets to 63.5 million in upper-primary, further dwindling to 38 million at the secondary level, with a mere 27.8 million at the higher-secondary level, illustrating a severe pyramidal attrition as educational levels advance. Further, there are 743,000 schools at the primary level, accounting for 50.7% of all schools. However, as students advance to higher educational levels, there is a sharp decline in the number of schools available, with only 150,000 schools (10.3%) at the higher-secondary level. This imbalance creates a bottleneck effect, where the capacity to accommodate students in the public education system drastically reduces as they climb higher. The current educational bottleneck, highlighted by a mere 44% retention rate to higher-secondary levels against the National Education Policys 100% goal, underscores the urgency for systemic reforms. This stark drop-off, indicative of potential drop-out spikes at key transition stages, necessitates a comprehensive overhaul. It must include increasing secondary and higher-secondary seats, enhancing educational access, and ensuring a smooth progression with sufficient infrastructure and teachers at the state level. Addressing this pyramidal shrinkage is crucial for us to tackle educational disparities and unlock Indias human capital potential. The onus is on state governments, despite Union support via the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, to implement these critical steps. Our next column in this series will explore how our multiplicity of school categories exacerbates transition-point drop-outs. These are the authors personal views. AI-powered answer engines have arrived. A few days ago, The Wall Street Journal reported how new companies like ArcSearch and Consensus are changing the rules of web search as we knew it. As compared to search engines that at best threw up a few links to relevant articles, these new AI-run search engines not only provide the most relevant information on a topic, but also intelligent summaries of various articles. So the collation of knowledge is no longer a difficult task. Until now, individuals were judged by the knowledge they acquired. Our educational system gauged how much of it a student has gathered and how much a test-taker can regurgitate during exam time. Whether it was the spelling of a word or the date when a particular war started, what mattered most was whether the student had an exact memory of it to summon at a particular moment. Even at higher levels of education, what mattered most was how much one could remember of what was taught. With the emergence of Large Language Models (LLM), storing a vast amount of information is very easy. The storage capacity of the human brain is not even a smidgen compared to that of cloud storage. For that matter, forgetting much of what one learns is an essential part of the human brains functioning. Todays AI-powered answer providers have developed the intelligence to make sense of the information they have been fed or given access to. With this, data storage in human brains is becoming redundant and perhaps also the exercise of our faculties to interpret it. So, what should humans do? Allow machines to do all the thinking and let the human brain atrophy under the dulling effects of intellectual inactivity? No doubt, AI tools can provide answers to any question. But there is something the machine cannot do. Machines are not curious. They do not know the questions it should find answers for. Only humans know what questions they need answers for. And the starting point of all great innovations is a question. What is the sea route from Europe to India? This question not only delivered discoveries in ship-building technology, but helped expand access to other countries and continents across the high seas. From the time of Socrates, the art of asking questions has been in practice. Much like any other art, there is much to learn about the art of asking questions. First of all, one has to develop a certain mindset to start asking useful questions. These usually emanate from those who are uncomfortable with the status quo. While those who are content with the situation they are in can bask in the comfort of it, people who experience discontent are far likelier to start asking questions on how the existing scenario could be improved. For years, computers were seen as equipment meant only for the corporate world. Even the best of technocrats never questioned that status quo. It took Apple Incs co-founder Steve Jobs to ask why digital technology should not be put to personal use. The rest is history. We have all grown up in environments where questioning elders or existing practices was considered anathema. Organized religions make sure that none of their beliefs is ever questioned. Many of the worlds powerful people do not like being questioned. Some even consider questions a jolt to their authority. All this means many existing beliefs and practices are set in stone. Given this scenario, developing a healthy disrespect for the status quo is a prerequisite for the emergence of questioning behaviour. The questions raised should be evocative. They should provoke even the experts in a field and create a healthy tension among them. In 1900, David Hilbert, a famous mathematician, asked 23 crucial questions for mathematicians to solve by the end of the century. These questions, now known as Hilbert problems, influenced mathematical research throughout the 20th century. More than a century later, only 10 of those 23 problems have been solved. How does one develop the ability to ask such evocative questions that keep even experts awake for more than a century? Evocative questions can come only from a mind that is willing to delve deeply into a problem at hand. Take the question of why an apple falls downwards. While various stories of it abound, it did not pop into Issac Newtons brain in a flash, as often depicted. It was a result of a whole years research he was doing in a lab at Cambridge University. Because of a plague epidemic back then, he had taken a break from research and was resting at his aunts house. That is when all the work he was doing for years got encapsulated in a single significant question. The quality of a question is directly correlated with ones depth of knowledge in a field. In todays fast changing corporate landscape, continuous learning is one habit all corporate leaders want to inculcate across their organizations. With much knowledge easily made available by AI technology, how does one create a yearning for learning? This is where the use of good questions can help. Asking questions can also create commitment. Individuals who ask questions are more motivated to take ownership of their learning. The more the questions an individual asks, the better will be that persons eagerness to learn. In these times of AI-powered answering machines, human expertise will be evaluated by this question: What is the most evocative question you have ever asked? Back in 2013, when Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny was facing bogus criminal charges, I recalled when my great-grandfather, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev, compared Russia to a tub full of dough. You put your hand down in it, down to the bottom," and when you first pull out your hand, a little hole remains." But then, before your very eyes," the dough returns to its original statea spongy, puffy mass." Navalnys death more than a decade later proves that little has changed. The prison where Navalny died is a brutal one. Nicknamed Polar Wolf, it is a freezing cold gulag for violent criminals. But Navalny, an anti-corruption lawyer and blogger, was not known for violence. In 2013, he was fending off trumped-up embezzlement charges and the convictions that got him sent to Polar Wolf in 2021 were for parole violations, fraud and contempt of court. While in prison, he accumulated more convictions on fabricated charges, including supporting extremism. Navalnys real crime, of course, was challenging Russias President Vladimir Putin. From leading protests against the rigged parliamentary elections of 2011 to probing the corruption of Russias elites to seeking to unseat Putin (in a presidential election from which the authorities excluded him), he was relentless in his nearly two-decade-long campaign against Putin and his circle. The many legal proceedings were Stalin-style show trialsintended to give the illusion of justice, while getting a high-profile critic off ballots and TV screens. But while Stalin-era trials made liberal use of the death penalty, no case against Navalny, no matter how trumped up, warranted itat least not officially. The Russian prison service claims that Navalny lost consciousness after a walk and could not be resuscitated, despite the best efforts of emergency medical workers. But Navalny did not seem unwell" the previous day, when he took part in online court proceedings, or the day before that, when his lawyer visited him. This is not to say that Navalnys death was definitely a direct hit, ordered by Putin himself; life at Polar Wolf would destroy anyones health. But, directly or indirectly, [Navalnys death could be laid at the Kremlins door]. Attempts had been made on Navalnys life. In the summer of 2020, the dissenter was poisoned by a nerve agent called Novichoka Soviet creationand he was airlifted to Berlin for recovery. He probably knew that returning to Russia would mean more politically motivated prosecutions and that he could end up being killed, like Boris Nemtsov and countless others. But he chose to return to continue confronting Russias leader. Navalny was arrested immediately upon landing in Moscow. The mass protests that ensued, demanding his release, must have reinforced the Kremlins view of him as a threat to be neutralized. In the show trials that followed, no government authority dared even to name him, calling him the German patient." It was like living in the Harry Potter universe, where Lord Voldemort is he who must not be named." When I wrote about the Navalny show trials in 2013, I suggested that Russia might have been evolving, albeit slowly. Little did I know that this period would later be remembered as vegetarian times," when independent media were suppressed but not banned, public protest was punished but not with long prison sentences, and a high-profile opponent of the Kremlin like Navalny could keep running an anti-corruption foundation and speaking out against injustice. Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Kremlin appears to have become carnivorous. Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, almost 300 cases have been initiated for discrediting the Russian armed forces." Now, all it takes to get your own show trial in Russia is to recite an anti-war poem. The tragedy of this despotism is that the fight never ends. The more show trials a regime holds, the more it must hold to keep people in check. The more repression people endure, the more repression is needed to avoid a backlash. As authoritarians have no end point, its reasonable to assume that in the run-up to Russias next sham presidential election next month, its leaders tolerance of dissent is at an all-time low. Russias election is expected to run smoothly, even though Navalnys death attracted more attention than his statements from prison ever did. The same logic may have applied to the poisonings of a Russian-British double agent and his daughter before the 2018 election. Neither victim posed an imminent threat to the leadership and their deaths attracted much negative attention. But the Kremlin perhaps needed to send out a stern message: Enemies beware. And thus does the dough refill the tub. 2024/project syndicate Congress MLA Zeeshan Siddique has been removed from the post of President, of Mumbai Youth Congress, news agency ANI said on February 24. Zeeshan's father Baba Siddique quit Congress and joined Ajit Pawar faction NCP earlier this month. Zeeshan is a Congress MLA representing the Vandre (East) assembly seat of Mumbai and is also rumoured to leave the party like his father. Baba Siddique was welcomed by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar who presented him with a garland that included the party's symbol on February 13. Baba Siddique had said he was asked to join the party by NCP leader Praful Patel. "Wherever I am, I will remain loyal to that party. Now, I have come to NCP, and here too, I will stay with loyalty," he said after the switch. A three-time MLA from the Bandra West constituency, Baba Siddique was the former minister of state for food and civil supplies. He was also chairman of the Mumbai division of Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority. Siddique's exit was yet another blow to the Congress party which has already been dealing with many leaders quitting. Former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and senior leader Milind Deora also left the party this year. The Congress party is faced with a worrying trend of departure of series of leaders ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Last two weeks have seen widespread anticipation about the likely switch of former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath and his son Nakul Nath to the Bharatiya Janata Party. The wave of resignations of Congress leaders coincides with charges of internal dissatisfaction with party leadership. The timing assumes significance with Lok Sabha 2024 elections scheduled to be held in less than two months from now. Political observers suspect more exists of Congress leaders in the run up to general elections. 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! Leader of opposition in the West Bengal assembly and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday challenged the state police to prove their charge that a 'Khalistani' slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer within 24 hours or face consequences. The IPS officer was deputed to prevent Adhikari from visiting the violence-stricken Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Adhikari, along with another BJP leader Agnimitra Paul, had claimed that IPS officer Jaspreet Singh wasn't fulfilling his duties, but dismissed allegations that anyone from the party called him a 'Khalistani.' "No one has abused him or used the word 'Khalistani.' He is trying to make an issue," Paul claimed. Adhikari has also denied the allegations and accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of diverting attention from development in Sandeshkhali, which had been witnessing protests after local women accused absconding TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh and his supporters of "sexually assaulting" them under coercion. The IPS officer, offended by the alleged comment, had questioned the BJP workers. "Just because I am wearing a turban, you people are calling me a Khalistani? Is this what you have learnt? If a police officer wears a turban and performs his duty honestly, he becomes a Khalistani for you? Shame on you," he had said. ADG (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar said that the incident happened when the police force was deployed to enforce Section 144 in Dhamakhali on Tuesday morning. The force was headed by IPS officer Jaspeet Singh, SSP Intelligence Branch. "There are several MLAs including West Bengal Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari in Dhamakhali. There was an altercation with the police officer during which Adhikari called the police officer a Khalisthani, which is never befitting of a political leader. We strongly protest against it. We will take legal action against him for this serious comment," ADG Sarkar said. However, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya, on behalf of Adhikari, challenged Sarkar to prove the allegations within 24 hours or face consequences. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Malviya said, "BJP LoP Suvendu Adhikari dares ADG (South Bengal) to prove his charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face consequences. @WBPolice, Mamata Banerjee's only line of defence, is crumbling. They should now retreat to their barracks." West Bengal Police condemned slur The West Bengal Police also took to the microblogging website X, and said, "We, the West Bengal Police fraternity, are outraged to share this video, where one of our own officers was called Khalistani by the state's Leader of the Opposition. His fault: he is both a proud Sikh, and a capable police officer who was trying to enforce the law." Saying that stern action would be taken, the WB police added that the comment is as much malicious and racial as it is communally inciting. "It is a criminal act. We unequivocally condemn the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individuals religious identity and beliefs aimed to incite people to take to violence and break the law." Sikhs stage protest near Kolkata BJP office Up to 200 people belonging to the Sikh community staged a demonstration in front of the BJP office in the city on Wednesday, expressing solidarity with the IPS officer. A protester said, "The farmers from Punjab are described as Khalistanis by some BJP leaders for demanding better support price for their crops. A policeman hailing from Punjab has been similarly labelled by the saffron party for doing his duty as a police officer." "We are all patriotic Indians. None can question our patriotism, our sacrifice, our love for the country. Why should wearing turbans as part of our religious right make a Sikh tagged as a Khalistani? We demand an apology from the BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on this issue," an elderly Sikh man said. Similar protests were staged by members of the Sikh community at Asansol in Paschim Bardhaman district. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee slams BJP Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the BJP's "divisive politics" and said attempts to undermine the reputation of Sikhs were audacious. "Today, the BJP's divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per BJP every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS & SISTERS, revered for their SACRIFICES and UNWAVERING DETERMINATION to our nation. We stand firm in protecting Bengal's social harmony and will take stern lawful measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt it," Banerjee said in a post on X. (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! A set of Starlink devices is shown in an exhibition in Hanoi, October 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Luu Quy Satellite Internet providers can only offer the service in Vietnam if there are gateways in the country, the information ministry has proposed. In a draft for a decree regarding certain terms of the Law on Telecommunications 2023, the Ministry of Information and Communications said providers must reach commercial agreements with licensed telecommunications businesses in the country. Vietnamese businesses then must have technical measures to ensure information security, including emergency service suspension upon authorities' request. "There has to be measures for all data generated by end-devices within Vietnamese territory to go through a ground station (satellite gateway) on Vietnamese territory, and be connected with the public telecommunications network," the draft reads. Other requirements include a minimum charter capital of VND30 billion ($1.2 million) for the establishment of a fixed or mobile satellite telecommunications network, and a minimum investment into the network of VND100 billion in the first three years. The information ministry said satellite services can operate as a trans-border service, requiring no technical or commercial presence in the country it provides the services to. They present certain risks, including data leaks and data being illegally collected, leading to network and information security issues. In Vietnam, VNPT is the only provider with a satellite network, utilizing Very Small Aperture Terminals and the Vinasat broadband satellite network. However, the service offers low connection speed at high costs. The new telecommunication law is expected to come into effect from July. Congress Uttar Pradesh in-charge Avinash Pande announced on Wednesday that the party will contest on 17 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. He said the remaining 63 seats will have candidates of INDIA bloc from Samajwadi Party (SP) and other parties. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai said the Samajwadi Party will contest elections on 63 seats while the Congress will contest on 17 seats in Uttar Pradesh. The INDIA bloc will register victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and will defeat NDA. Our (Congress-Samajwadi Party) strategy is to stand firmly with each other," he added. Which are the 17 seats to be contested by Congress SP state chief Naresh Uttam Patel said the Congress will contest Raebareli, Amethi, Varanasi, Ghaziabad, Kanpur and 12 other seats. Raebareli and Amethi were once considered pocket boroughs of the Congress. Meanwhile, Varanasi is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency. Apart from Raebareli, Amethi and Varanasi, the other seats on which the Congress will be contesting include Kanpur City, Fatehpur Sekri, Basgaon, Saharanpur, Prayagraj, Maharajganj, Amroha, Jhansi, Bulandshahr, Ghaziabad, Mathura, Sitapur, Barabanki and Deoria, SP state chief Naresh Uttam Patel was quoted by PTI as saying. These statements came hours after SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and leader Ravidas Mehrotra confirmed that the SP and the Congress will contest Lok Sabha Election 2024 together. Mehrotra also shared details of the seat-sharing deal and said that the SP will contest elections on 63 seats, while the Congress will fight on 17 seats. "This will strengthen the INDIA alliance and INDIA will form its government in 2024...We have tried to stop the scattering of non-BJP votes...Samajwadi Party will contest elections on 63 seats and Congress on 17 seats. We will try to get all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh," Ravidas Mehrotra told news agency ANI. Hours after Ravidas Mehrotra's statement, Congress Uttar Pradesh in-charge Avinash Pande said, "I am delighted to tell you that it has been decided that in Uttar Pradesh the INC will contest on 17 seats and the remaining 63 seats will have candidates of INDIA Alliance - from SP and other parties." Akhilesh Yadav confirmed on Wednesday that there will be an alliance between the SP and the Congress and that everything will be cleared soon." On asking why he was not present twice for the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Yadav said, All is well that ends well... Yes, there will be an alliance. There is no conflict. Everything will be out and clear soon... All is well that ends well..." Congress leader Rahul Gandhi sparked furious debate on Tuesday as the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra made its way through Uttar Pradesh. The Wayanad MP claimed that he had seen people lying drunk on roads during his sojourn through Varanasi Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency. Union Minister Smriti Irani dubbed the politician a shameless person who had no right to insult the people of UP. Rahul has no right to insult the people of Kashi and the youth of Uttar Pradesh. The whole world looks to UP these days for its skillful and talented youth. We don't expect any apology from Rahul Gandhi as he is a shameless person," Union Minister Smriti Irani said. The senior BJP leader also advised" party chairperson Sonia Gandhi to urge her son to refrain from commenting on such matters. Congress' future is in darkness but UP's future is moving towards development. It is my advice to Sonia Gandhi that if she cannot give a good upbringing to her son, then at least ask him not to comment..." she added. In a veiled swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday claimed that during his visit to the temple town as a part of the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay yatra, he saw people lying drunk on roads. Addressing the public in Amethi, Wayanad MP said the youths of Uttar Pradesh was on a 'trip' after boozing by night. "I went to Varanasi and I saw people lying on roads drunk. The youths of Uttar Pradesh are on a trip after consuming liquor by night. On the other hand, there is the Ram Mandir which is only visited by the likes of PM Modi, Ambani and Adani. You will see all our billionaires there but not a single person from a backward class or the Dalit community," Rahul said. "Your place is only limited to roads for begging while they (Centre's alleged corporate cronies) keep minting money," he added. The Varanasi constituency has seen a huge influx of funds from the Centre and state government and is also a part of the Smart City mission, which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 25, 2015. (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! After Alexei Navalny recovered from poisoning in 2020, his wife Yulia Navalnaya was asked whether her husband should give up his role as Russias most prominent opposition figure. No," she said, without pause. I fully support Alexeis work, sincerely. Leaving it half done isnt how you do it." When Navalny died in a Russian prison in the Arctic last week, Navalnaya, who had largely stayed in her husbands shadow, vowed to complete his mission. With her white-blonde hair and dark-blue dress, Navalnaya cut a ghostly figure at a dimly lit table as she promised to succeed her husband, who for years was subjected to what she called sham trials, prison sentences and poisoning as he vociferously challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin. Harnessing an outpouring of support and the resources Navalny built through his Anti-Corruption Foundation, or FBK, Navalnaya wants to spearhead renewed efforts to undermine Putins rule. Putin killed half of me, but my other half wont give up," she said in the 9-minute video statement Monday, casting herself in the league of women who fought on in fierce political battles after their husbands died. But the going will be tough. The Kremlins stringent laws against dissent have enfeebled Russias opposition, while Putins opponents, including those in exile, have been shot, poisoned or strangled, making the president appear unassailable. Protests, brutally crushed in the wake of Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, are now almost nonexistent; even people laying flowers at makeshift memorials are detained. Navalny, the tall, blue-eyed Kremlin critic, who prison authorities said died last Friday after a walk in the Polar Wolf colony prison camp, had a strength that Moscow found hard to break: his willingness to stay in Russia. After he was poisoned with a nerve agent and airlifted from Siberia to Germany, Navalny returned to Russia in 2021, even though he predicted, correctly, that he would likely be arrested once there. His widow though is set to continue her husbands work from abroad, a fraught position from which to gain legitimacy in the intensely patriotic and increasingly closed country. She will need to build a profile beyond that of being Navalnys widow, and cultivate domestic support to become a potent political figure, wrote Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya. Her success will hinge on her capacity to develop a unique political style, articulate her vision, and assemble a professional team that does not put off potential supporters," Stanovaya said. Navalnaya is already taking bold steps, pledging to name those responsible for her husbands death and show their faces, likely with the help of FBKs formidable investigators. She is also lobbying the European Union against recognizing Russias coming presidential elections, which Putin is expected to win virtually unopposed. A president who kills his main political opponent is not legitimate by definition," Navalnaya said earlier this week in Brussels at a meeting of EU foreign ministers, according to a transcript provided by Navalnys spokeswoman. On Wednesday, Russian state agency TASS said that Navalnys mother had filed a lawsuit against authorities, contesting their refusal to hand back her sons body. A hearing has been scheduled for March 4. The British Foreign Office also on Wednesday called for the release of Navalnys body and an investigation into his death. Britain has sanctioned six individuals who head up the penal colony where Navalny died after years of mistreatment by Russian authorities," the Foreign Office said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that Putin hadnt watched Navalnayas address and rejected her allegation that Putin was involved in Navalnys death. Navalnaya shot back on social media: I dont care how the killers press secretary comments on my words." Rarely granting interviews, Navalnaya and allies of her husband didnt respond to requests for this article. Putin made a big mistake by killing Alexei," Ivan Zhdanov, the director of FBK, posted on social media. Now Yulia takes his place. Yulia, who is free. Yulia with noble and just rage." Despite her political reticence, Navalnaya always played a key, complex, role in her husbands campaigns. Those close to the family say she helped him choose alliances in the Russian oppositions ever-changing web of loyalties and feuds. She has been an adviser on his various projects and a consultant during his doomed political campaigns, for mayor of Moscow in 2013, which he lost, and for president of Russia in 2018, when he was prevented from running on technicalities. She has always been part of Alexeis every political campaign," said Sergei Guriev, a professor at Sciences Po University in Paris, who has been close to the Navalny family. Alexei has always relied on her advice." Navalny said of his wife that her political views were more radical than his. Navalnaya has never spoken out about her husbands early flirtation with Russian nationalism, but has in the past said she supported him fully. She can now tap in to the reach and resources of her husbands formidable opposition operation. Those include a YouTube channel with over six million subscribers that has detailed alleged corruption among Putins elite. Her Monday address on the channel garnered over 5 million views in just over a day. An account on X belonging to Navalnaya and created on Monday, already has over 270,000 followers. The account was briefly suspended on Tuesday because, X said, it had been mistakenly flagged. What she has right away, thanks to Alexei, is the widest audience of Russian people, in Russia and abroad, more than any other Russian politician, including Putin." said Konstantin Sonin, an expert on Russian politics at the University of Chicago who personally knew Navalny for 20 years. Born in 1976 in Moscow to a scientist and civil servant, Navalnaya studied economics and worked in finance. She met Navalny on vacation in Turkey in 1998 and the two married two years later, around the same time Putin came to power in Russia. Their daughter Dasha was born in 2001, a son Zahar followed in 2008. In contrast to the wives of other politicians in Russia, Navalnaya was beside her husband throughout his rise on the political stage. She accompanied him at protests, stood on the dais with him when he gave the fiery orations that eventually earned him a central place among opposition figures. All the while she shunned a personal role in politics. When her husband first began coming under arrest and her familys home was raided in 2013, however, Navalnaya took to the stage in the pouring rain to warn the Kremlin against believing that her husbands weak spot was his family. I came here to say that if anyone in power perceives families as a vulnerable place, then they are mistaken," she said. If we have to resist pressure, we will master this science too." As a couple, the Navalnys werent shy about showing affection for one another. On Valentines Day this year, two days before he died, a post on Navalnys Instagram page showed a photo of them both along with the caption, I feel that youre near every second and I love you more and more." On work trips, Navalny said publicly, he had strict protocol against female co-workers entering his hotel room even for work meetings to avoid the potential for kompromat, or potentially compromising material, that could call his loyalty to his wife into question. Following her husbands poisoning in 2020, Navalnaya led the charge to have him evacuated to Germany. At first, according to the couple, Russian hospital staff denied her entry to his room without a marriage certificate and written permission from the patient, who was lying unconscious. But after holding impromptu news conferences outside the hospital and appealing directly to Putin in a letter demanding he allow Navalnys evacuation, he was released. Her actions likely saved his life. Scientists in Germany, where he was eventually evacuated, determined that he was poisoned after being exposed to the Soviet-era nerve agent, Novichok. Navalny and FBK investigators eventually tracked down the operative he said poisoned him, finding out that the nerve agent had been smeared inside his underwear while he was visiting supporters in the Siberian city of Tomsk. The Kremlin has denied involvement in the poisoning. Yulia, you saved me, and let them put that in all the neurobiology textbooks," Navalny later wrote on Instagram. Months later, as both of them flew back to Moscow fully knowing that authorities would detain him at the airport, Navalnaya said in a video from the plane, Waiter, bring us some vodka, were flying home," a reference from a popular Russian movie. Navalny was detained after the flight. When he was sentenced to more than two years in prison later that year, the first of several sentences that would amount to some 30 years, Navalny waved to his wife sitting in the courtroom and drew a heart on the glass of the defendants cage. Kate Vtorygina contributed to this article. Write to Thomas Grove at thomas.grove@wsj.com and Georgi Kantchev at georgi.kantchev@wsj.com WASHINGTONThe Biden administration plans to invest billions in the domestic manufacturing of cargo cranes, seeking to counter fears that the use of China-built cranes with advanced software at many U.S. ports poses a potential national security risk. The move is part of a set of actions being taken by the administration on Wednesday that is intended to improve maritime cybersecurity. They include a U.S. Coast Guard security directive to mandate certain digital security requirements for currently deployed foreign-built cranes at strategic seaports, as well as an executive order by President Biden setting baseline cybersecurity standards for computer networks that operate U.S. ports. Administration officials said more than $20 billion would be invested in port security, including domestic cargo crane production, over the next five years. The money, tapped from the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill passed in 2021, would support a U.S. subsidiary of Mitsui, a Japanese company, to produce the cranes, which officials said would be the first time in 30 years they would be built domestically. We felt there was real strategic risk here," Anne Neuberger, U.S. deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, said in an interview. These cranes, because they are essentially moving the large-scale containers in and out of port, if they were encrypted in a criminal attack, or rented or operated by an adversary, that could have real impact on our economys movement of goods and our militarys movement of goods through ports." China has previously dismissed U.S. concerns about Beijing-backed cyber threats, including cranes, as paranoia-driven." The Biden administrations actions follow a Wall Street Journal investigation last year that revealed U.S. fears that giant cranes made by a Chinese, state-owned company in use at a number of U.S. ports could present an espionage and disruption risk. Cranes at some ports used by the U.S. military were flagged as surveillance threats. Officials also raised the concern that the software on the cranes could be manipulated by the Chinese to impede American shipping or worse, temporarily disrupt the operation of the crane. By design these cranes may be controlled, serviced and programmed from remote locations," said Rear Adm. John Vann, who leads the Coast Guard cyber command, during a press briefing. These features potentially leave PRC-manufactured cranes vulnerable to exploitation," he said, referring to the Peoples Republic of China. There has been a surge of warnings from top U.S. officials, including Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray, regarding the potential threat to American lives posed by the infiltration of the nations critical infrastructure by Chinese hackers, which could allow them to detonate crippling cyberattacks in the event of a conflict over Taiwan or another flashpoint. While comparably well-made and inexpensive, the cranes, manufactured by the China-based manufacturer ZPMC, contain sophisticated sensors that can register and track the origin and destination of containers, prompting concerns that China could capture information about the shipment of materiel in or out of the country to support U.S. military operations around the world. They account for nearly 80% of ship-to-shore cranes in use at U.S. ports, officials said. U.S. officials so far have declined to say whether the Chinese have used the cranes for malfeasance. Write to Dustin Volz at dustin.volz@wsj.com and Gordon Lubold at gordon.lubold@wsj.com The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested the cryogenic engine for the unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) mission on Wednesday (February 21) that will be the first to take Indian astronauts to space, marking a leap forward to accomplishing the mission. ISRO's Gaganyaan mission cleared another hurdle as the space agency announced that the upcoming mission CE20 cryogenic engine is human-rated now and will power the upper stage of the LVM3 vehicle. The space agency in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter) tweeted, "ISRO's CE20 cryogenic engine is now human-rated for Gaganyaan missions. Rigorous testing demonstrates the engines mettle. The CE20 engine identified for the first uncrewed flight LVM3 G1 also went through acceptance tests." Also read: NASA's spacecraft grabs 4.5 billion-year-old rocks from asteroid; Here's what it reveals about earliest signs of life The ISRO in a press statement said, ISRO has accomplished a major milestone in the human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine that powers the cryogenic stage of the human-rated LVM3 launch vehicle for Gaganyaan missions, with the completion of the final round of ground qualification tests on February 13, 2024." The release further stated, "The final test was the seventh of a series of vacuum ignition tests carried out at the High Altitude Test Facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, to simulate the flight conditions." Scientists simulated flight conditions at the High Altitude Test Facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri. This test marks the seventh of the series of vacuum ignition tests that have been conducted so far. What is Gaganyaan mission? The mission tentatively scheduled for Q2 of 2024, aims to launch a crew of three members into an orbit of 400 km for a three-day mission and bring them back safely to Earth by landing in Indian sea waters. The mission has been named after the Sanskrit word for craft or vehicle to the sky. The Gaganyaan project's cost is about 90 billion. India will become the fourth country in the world to send a human into space after the Soviet Union, the US, and China if the mission succeeds. 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! Vostok Island, which sits in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, appears to be blacked out on Google Earth. There are many, many weird things seen on Google Earth. The service, which was launched in 2005, compiles images from various sources, from satellites in geosynchronous orbit that snap low-resolution photos from tens of thousands of miles above Earth, to satellites closer to Earth that capture higher-resolution shots, and even aerial photos taken from airplanes, kites, drones and even balloons. The imagery is available to anyone, and people across the world have taken advantage of this rich resource to find weird and wonderful places that may have otherwise remained undiscovered. From a boneyard of military planes, to a polka-dot pattern created by ants, to mysterious structures etched into the Gobi Desert and even a strange black island in the Pacific Ocean, Google Earth and its netizens have helped bring these places to light. Here's a look at some of the strangest. Swastika in Kazakhstan A swastika-shaped geoglyph can be seen from above Kazakhstan. (Image credit: Image copyright DigitalGlobe, courtesy Google Earth) Scientists discovered more than 50 geoglyphs across northern Kazakhstan in Central Asia, including this swastika-shaped design. Though the swastika symbol was created from timber, many of the geoglyphs were made of earthen mounds. The geoglyphs seem to date back 2,000 years. At the time, swastikas were not uncommon across Europe and Asia and were not of course affiliated with any political beliefs. [Read more about the swastika geoglyphs and other Kazakhstan designs] Island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island in Philippines An island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island. This Google Earth image is an eye-full and a mouthful, as it's an island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island. Yes, Google Earth captured this image showing a tiny island that resides inside a crater lake on an island called Volcano Island in a lake called Taal lake on the Philippine island of Luzon. For years apparently, this phenomenon was thought to be the largest of its kind spied by Google Earth. However, it turns out that accolade goes to a 4-acre spit of land in northern Canada where no human has likely stepped foot. Wheel structures in Azraq Oasis in Jordan Wheel structures in the Azraq Oasis in Jordan, as seen in this Google Earth image. (Image credit: Image courtesy Google Earth)) Google Earth has spied some old artistry etched into the surface of the planet, including wheel-shaped geometric structures that may date back some 8,500 years, making them older than Peru's geoglyphs called Nazca Lines. Some of these spoked designs that dot Jordan's Azraq Oasis seem to be positioned in a way that aligns with sunrise on the winter solstice. A team of scientists with the Aerial Photographic Archive for Archaeology in the Middle East (APAAME) have been investigating wheel structures (also called "works of the old men") with satellite imagery available through Google Earth. The wheels vary in their design, with some showing spokes that radiate from the center, others with just one or two bars rather than spokes and still others not circular at all and instead shaped like squares, rectangles or triangles, the researchers have found. The wheels seen in this image are in the Azraq Oasis and have spokes with a southeast-northwest orientation, possibly aligning with the winter solstice sunrise. Bull's eye in wheel structures in Saudi Arabia Some of the "wheels" found in Saudi Arabia have a bull's-eye design. (Image credit: Image courtesy Google Earth) One type of these "wheels" in the Middle East looks like a bull's-eye, with three triangles pointing toward the eye and small piles of stones leading from the triangles toward the bull's-eye wheel. David Kennedy, of the University of Western Australia, who co-directs the project, calls it "a central bull's-eye tomb with, in this case, three triangles each with at least a part of a connecting line of stone heaps running to the center." Unexcavated pyramid in Egypt Natural or man-made? (Image credit: Google Earth via Google Earth Anomalies) This image from Google Earth shows an anomaly that some believe could be an unexcavated pyramid. Dozens of anomalies in Egypt have been detected using Google Earth in the past five years; however, there is a debate as to whether they represent natural features or artificial structures. More excavations are needed, but the security and economic situation in Egypt has limited the number and size of excavations. More potential eroded pyramids in Egypt Eroded Egyptian pyramids or geologic features? (Image credit: Google Earth via Google Earth Anomalies) Eroded Egyptian pyramids or geologic features? Phantom Sandy Island near New Caledonia The mysterious "Sandy Island" (Image credit: via Google Earth) In 2012, a group of Australian researchers "undiscovered" an island the size of Manhattan in the South Pacific. A mysterious place called Sandy Island had popped up on maps, northwest of New Caledonia. It even showed up as a black polygon on Google Earth. But when scientists sailed there in November 2012, they found open water instead of solid ground. In an obituary for the island published in April 2013, the researchers explained why the phantom landmass had been included on some maps for more than a century, pointing to some human errors and a possible pumice raft. Pentagram in Kazakhstan (Image credit: Google Maps) On the wind-blown steppes of Central Asia, in an isolated corner of Kazakhstan, there's a large pentagram, measuring roughly 1,200 feet (366 meters) in diameter, etched into Earth's surface. The five-pointed star surrounded by a circle, located on the southern shore of the Upper Tobol Reservoir, shows up vividly on Google Maps, the online version of the more detailed Google Earth. Many online comments linked the site with devil worship, nefarious religious sects or denizens of the underworld. Instead, the pentagram turns out to be the outline of a park made in the form of a star; the star is marked by roadways that are now lined with trees, making the star shape even more distinct in aerial photos. Abandoned launch sites at Oahu Defense Area in Hawaii This Google Earth image shows the Oahu Defense Area in Hawaii, which was equipped with missiles in open air with earthen revetments, or embankments, between paired launch sites, shown here in 1968. (Image credit: Google Earth) Nike missiles, which were supersonic surface-to-air missiles, sat ready to launch at nearly 300 sites across the United States during a period of the Cold War, from 1954 to the 1970s. Some of those missiles even carried nuclear warheads. Those missiles became obsolete with the advent of long-range intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). David Tewksbury, a GIS (geographic information system) specialist at Hamilton College in New York, aimed to preserve a visual record of the abandoned Nike missile launch sites before they vanish either as a result of being reclaimed by nature, repurposed by the military or redeveloped. His plan is to build a geo-referenced database so that anyone can research the Nike missile sites through Google Earth. Here, one of those sites, the Oahu Defense Area in Hawaii, is shown in 1968. The site was once equipped with missiles in the open air, with embankments between paired launch sites. Spiral art installation "Desert Breath" in Egypt desert-breath (Image credit: Google Earth) A spiral portal to an alternate universe? Maybe an alien message? Or an ancient monument to a supernatural being? This giant spiral design in the desolate Egyptian desert, not far from the shores of the Red Sea, is an art installation called Desert Breath. In March 2007, Danae Stratou, Alexandra Stratou and Stella Constantinides created the 1 million square foot (100,000 square meters) artwork meant to celebrate "the desert as a state of mind, a landscape of the mind," the artists say on their website. Looting holes in Apamea, Syria Apamea looted in satellite imagery (Image credit: Google Earth screen shot) The civil war in Syria has imperilled hundreds of archaeological sites, including causing damage to all six of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, which is considered one of the oldest occupied areas of the Earth. Satellites, in particular, have shown much of this devastation, with some of the strangest imagery showing destruction in Apamea. There, Google Earth images have revealed the entire ancient Roman city has been pockmarked with holes dug by looters since the start of the civil war. "It looks like the surface of the moon," Emma Cunliffe, an archaeology researcher at Durham University in England, who has published a report documenting archeological damage in Syria, told Live Science in 2013. "In eight months, the looted area exceeded the total excavated area." Blood lake outside Sadr City, Iraq Lake of blood? (Image credit: Cnes/Spot Image, Digital Globe, GeoEye, Google) Outside Sadr City in Iraq, at coordinates 33.396157 N, 44.486926 E, lies a blood-red lake. There is, as yet, no official explanation for the color of this strange body of water. Polka-dot formation on Grand Canyon made by ants This weird polka-dot pattern in the vegetation near a volcano on the rim of the Grand Canyon could be the work of red harvester ants. (Image credit: Google Earth) An odd polka-dot pattern near the cinder cone volcano dubbed Vulcan's Throne on the north rim of the Grand Canyon may have a simple explanation: ants. Turns out, the desert around the Grand Canyon is home to red harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex barbatus). These pesky critters can create nesting mounds spanning some 47 inches (120 centimeters) across and are typically surrounded by bare ground up to 108 square feet (10 square meters), according to physicist Amelia Carolina Sparavigna, a specialist in image processing and satellite imagery analysis at the Politecnico of Torino in Ital. Sparavigna discusses her theory in a scientific paper posted online on Jan. 11, 2016 - the paper has yet to be peer-reviewed. The mounds may be responsible for the aerial pattern of scattered circles, though Sparavigna says on-the-ground confirmation is needed. Island, in a lake, on an island, in a lake, on an island near Victoria Canada An (Image credit: Digital Globe, GeoEye, Google) The world's largest "island, in a lake, on an island, in a lake, on an island" is a narrow, four-acre strip of land in Canada located at exactly 69.793 N, 108.241 W. The nameless island (that little-tilde shaped squiggle of green) lolls across the center of a small lake, which is itself encapsulated by a slightly larger island. That resides inside one of a series of long finger lakes located 75 miles inland from the southern coast of Victoria Island, a land feature in Northern Canada. This little "sub-sub-sub island" would never have received its strange distinction if not for careful trolling of Google Earth by map geeks around the world. In all likelihood, no human has ever actually set foot there. Boneyard at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona The boneyard (Image credit: Google) The Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz., is where U.S. military planes go to die. Dubbed "the boneyard," this 2,600-acre cemetery of steel at coordinates 32 08'59.96" N, 110 50'09.03"W is closed to the general public, but Google Earth provides a high-resolution glimpse of what's inside: virtually every plane the military has flown since World War II from the B-52 StratoFortress to the F-14 Tomcat in various stages of decay. The boneyard at Davis Monthan was used as the backdrop in the music video for "Learning to Fly" by rock music legend Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The band was shown performing among various aircraft hulks. Word "Hamad" written on al Futaisi Island This is what happens when you have far more money than sense (Image credit: 2011 Google - Imagery 2011 DigitalGlobe, Cnes/Spot Image, GeoEye, U.S. Geological Survey) Hamad bin Hamdan al Nahyan, a billionaire Sheikh and member of Abu Dhabi's ruling family, has had his name carved into the sandy surface of al Futaisi Island, an island he owns in the Persian Gulf. At half a mile tall and 2 miles long altogether, the letters HAMAD may be the world's largest; regardless, they're visible from space. Normally, words written in sand wash away, but these letters are large enough to form waterways that absorb the encroaching tide. Indeed, at the time these satellite photographs were taken, said tide can be seen flowing through the letters all the way to the M. Aerial view of elephants in Chad Wild View Elephants (Image credit: GeoEye) Thought you might never get to see a herd of African elephants in the wild? Luckily, satellites captured a few high-resolution images of a herd on the move in Chad, at coordinates 10.903497 N,19.93229 E. Church of Scientology Bunker in New Mexico scientology-bunker (Image credit: Google Maps) Found etched onto the desert floor near Mesa Huerfanita, New Mexico, are two large diamonds surrounded by a pair of overlapping circles. Author John Sweeney claimed that the site marks a hidden bunker belonging to the Church of Scientology. According to their website, Scientology "is a religion that offers a precise path leading to a complete and certain understanding of one's true spiritual nature and ones relationship to self, family, groups, Mankind, all life forms, the material universe, the spiritual universe and the Supreme Being," according to the organization's website. Such symbols on the desert floor are reportedly there to help guide these scientologists who return to Earth after fleeing a planetary "Armageddon," writes the Daily Mail. Of course, the symbols will likely remain a mystery. Patterns etched in Gobi Desert Mysterious structures and patterns etched into the surface of China's Gobi Desert. (Image credit: Digital Globe, Google) Newfound Google Earth images have revealed an array of mysterious structures and patterns etched into the surface of China's Gobi Desert. According to experts, this is a secret military base, and the structures are used for a variety of purposes including weapons testing, spy satellite calibration and testing of radar instrumentation. The most elaborate feature, an intricate grid of perfectly straight lines that weave back and forth every few hundred feet for 20 miles (33 kilometers), is most likely a Yagi antenna array, a device used for weather tracking and other atmospheric research. KFC advertising in Chile hillside Google Earth "mapvertising" (Image credit: Digital Globe, Google) Considering the number of people who troll Google Earth in their free time, it isn't surprising that enormous advertisements have started popping up in remote areas for their viewing pleasurea concept known as "mapvertising." The world's largest Coca-Cola logo, for example, can be seen at 18.5292 S, 70.2500 W on a hillside in Chile; it is said to be made of 70,000 empty Coca Cola bottles. A 87,500-square-foot picture of Colonel Sanders the KFC logo once appeared at 37.646163 N, 115.750819 W just off Extraterrestrial Highway in Nevada, but has since been removed. Shipwreck of S.S. Jassim off Sudan Sizable shipwreck (Image credit: Google, Digital Globe) The S.S. Jassim, a Bolivian cargo ferry, ran aground and sank on the Wingate Reef off the coast of Sudan in 2003. At 265 feet (81 meters) long, it was once one of the largest shipwrecks visible on Google Earth, located at 19 38'45.99"N 37 17'42.17E, although it now appears to have sunk almost completely. Landlocked lips in Darfur, Sudan Landlocked lips (Image credit: Digital Globe, Google) These luscious lips are a hill formation located in Gharb, Darfur, in Sudan at coordinates 1222'13.32"N, 2319'20.18"E. Triangle UFO in Australia Aussie UFO? (Image credit: Sensis Pty Ltd, Digital Globe, Google) In Australia, at coordinates 3030'38.44"S 11522'56.03"E, a strange triangle dotted with bright lights appeared in the middle of a field. When first discovered in 2007, ufologists were quick to call it a "triangle UFO" caught in the act of hovering above Earth. Other Google Earth users said it may be an antenna associated with a nearby remote-controlled wind farm. With three sets of wires forming a triangle, and a tower in the middle, the antenna likely received and transmitted control signals. Related: This weird Google Earth picture does not show a crashed UFO Secret military base near Kashgar, China Google earth, satellite images, Chinese desert (Image credit: Google Earth) A mysterious set of satellite images seen on Google Earth created a stir when an ex-CIA analyst told Wired.com he had discovered "structures" in the desert around Kashgar, a city in China's remote Western desert that is part of the Xinjiang province. Some speculated the buildings at the site were part of a secret military base. But with further analysis, Stefan Geens, a technologist and geospatial blogger who has spent months in that part of China, said the site was likely part of a major manufacturing or economic center. Mystery structures on Chinese satellite images Another strange sight in China's Western desert (Image credit: Google Maps) Here, another image of the strange site in the Chinese desert. One structure in the complex did somewhat resemble a helicopter testing area, analysts said there's no reason it would necessarily be linked to military activities. Furthermore, the site is not ideal for a secret military base, since it's relatively close to a major population area and no towers or barriers were spotted, said Stuart Hamilton, former GIS program director at the Center for Geospatial Analysis at the College of William and Mary, and now a professor at Salisbury University in Maryland. An untouched mountaintop rainforest Mount Lico, in Mozambique, has a high-altitude rainforest sitting on its sheer slopes. (Image credit: Google Earth) At times, it seems like humans have explored every nook and cranny of the land on Earth. But in 2018, researchers went somewhere that (almost) no one has ever been before, all thanks to Google Earth. The destination was Mount Lico, Mozambique, where the research team discovered a high-altitude rainforest perched atop sheer slopes. Welsh conservation scientist Julian Bayliss first discovered the spot using Google Earth, The Verge reported. Actually visiting the forest required a dizzying 400-foot (123 m) climb up a vertical granite face. On top, the scientists found a remarkable ecosystem populated by butterflies, spiders and small mammals. A few old, handmade pots revealed that someone else had once made the climb, perhaps 100 years before. No one knew for sure who left the pots behind. Blacked out mystery island Vostok Island appears to be blacked out on Google Earth. (Image credit: Google Earth) Vostok Island, a small, uninhabited coral island that sits in the central Pacific Ocean, appears blacked out on Google Earth, sparking a range of conspiracy theories about it including it being a secret military base. In reality, the centre of the island is covered by Pisonia grandis trees rooted in thick, peat soil. These trees are so dense and dark, that from above the foliage gives the island the appearance of a weird black hole. Belonging to Kiribati, the island, which is about 0.8 miles (1.3 kilometers) long, was first discovered in 1820. It is composed of coral sand and rubble, with no lagoon or freshwater. There is no evidence the island has ever been inhabited, although rats there indicate it may have been visited by ancient Polynesians at some point. Vietnam aims to send 125,000 laborers abroad to work under contracts in 2024, focusing on key traditional markets such as Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. According to Nguyen Nhu Tuan, deputy head of the Information and Communication Division under the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, about 63,000 laborers are expected to be sent to Japan, 48,000 to Taiwan and 8,500 to South Korea. Vietnam will prioritize sending workers to potential markets to take safe, relevant jobs that bring high incomes, Tuan said. The ministry will continue to improve the quality of workers sent abroad, and prioritize sending laborers from disadvantaged areas and policy beneficiaries overseas. The ministry plans to expand labor markets offering high-income and recruiting jobs that are relevant to Vietnamese workers' skills, he said. He said sending workers abroad is not simply about creating jobs and income for workers, eliminating hunger and reducing poverty, but also a way to train and develop human resources for the country in the future. In 2023, Vietnam sent more than 159,000 workers abroad under contracts, reaching 133.3% of the yearly plan. This is the highest number of Vietnamese laborers working abroad in more than 10 years. Key traditional markets continued to receive a large number of Vietnamese laborers, with Japan receiving more than 80,000 workers, Taiwan more than 58,000 workers, and South Korea more than 11,000. Biden wants people to know most of the money he's seeking for Ukraine would be spent in the US As President Joe Biden pushes House Republicans to pass needed aid for Ukraine, he wants voters to understand that nearly two-thirds would actually be going to U.S. factories, like a munitions plant set to open this summer in a gleaming new industrial park in suburban Dallas Georgia state trooper dies after being struck by vehicle while investigating crash Authorities say a Georgia state trooper has been struck and killed by a vehicle as he investigated an earlier crash on Interstate 75 south of Atlanta Political leaders across Tennessee are condemning the group of masked men who waved flags with swastikas and gave Nazi salutes during their march. Chinese travelers flocked to tourist hot-spots across Asia over the Lunar New Year break, with visitor numbers and spending in destinations including Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia exceeding pre-Covid levels. Visa-free access for Chinese tourists to the Southeast Asia countries boosted traffic and signaled a robust revival in travels since Beijing lifted strict Covid restrictions in early 2023 that had all but shut China's borders for three years. The increase also provides a welcome relief to countries whose tourism industries rely on the Chinese and their spending for growth, although the outlook for a sustained recovery in overseas travel is overshadowed by a sluggish mainland economy and volatile financial markets that have seen consumers tighten their belts at home. "Despite the macroeconomic headwinds, we believe Chinese citizens are still willing to spend on travel-related experiences... we think travel-related spending could continue to outpace this overall domestic consumption," HSBC said in a research note. Bookings to Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia combined jumped more than 30% from Feb. 10-17 compared with 2019, according to travel website operator Trip.com, with Chinese visitors to Hong Kong, Macau, Japan and South Korea also increasing. The holiday in 2024 lasted for eight days, one day more than the Lunar New year break in 2019. Reflecting the boost from visa waivers, hotel bookings for Bangkok tripled over the period from Feb. 10-13 year-on-year, while those for Singapore jumped nine-fold, according to travel platform LY.com. Spending in Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia combined on the Chinese mobile payment platform Alipay increased 7.5% in the period from Feb. 9-12 from 2019 levels and nearly 7-fold from last year, Alipay said. However, overall consumer spending only recovered to 82% of levels four years ago, the company said. Middle East surge As Chinese scour for new adventures, the Middle East proved a popular Lunar New Year destination, with travel to Saudi Arabia up more than nine-fold from 2019 levels and bookings to United Arab Emirates climbing 60%, Trip.com said. The gambling hub of Macau, the only place in China where citizens can legally gamble in casinos, recorded a surge in Chinese tourists with more than a million visiting over the holiday and average hotel occupancy rates reaching 95%, according to official data. The jump in tourists bodes well for some of the world's largest casino operators in the former Portuguese territory, including Sands China and Wynn Macau. JP Morgan said in a note it expected daily gross gaming revenues for the peak of the holiday to hit $124 million for the first time in more than four years - higher than the $112 million generated during the October 2023 Golden Week holiday. Mass gaming rates were forecast to have reached 120% of pre-Covid levels, it said, adding that it expects February gross gaming revenues to rise by at least 80% year-on-year to $2.36 billion, the highest in more than four years. Across the border in Hong Kong, leader John Lee said on Tuesday more than 1.2 million Chinese tourists visited the city over Lunar New Year and overall hotel occupancy rates reached 90% in the first few days. Around 1,980 group tours from mainland China visited Hong Kong during the holiday. South Korea's Justice Ministry said more than 114,000 Chinese visitors entered the country during the holiday, up 4% from 2019, while some travel agents noted tourists were increasingly opting to travel on their own rather than in groups, which meant fewer organized trips to mega-stores. "With drops in the number of group tourists, we don't get to see Chinese tourists carrying big shopping bags anymore," an official at a travel agency in Seoul told Reuters, requesting not to be named as he is not authorized to speak to media. In Japan, department store operator Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings said that through to Feb. 14 "duty-free sales were significantly higher than the previous year, partly due to the Chinese New Year." A shift in holiday tastes was reflected in some data as travelers sought more experience-based trips, with Alipay reporting Chinese tourists globally spent 70% more on food and beverages compared with pre-Covid levels. Trip.com said overseas car rentals on its platform jumped 53% compared to 2019 and tickets for scenic experiences abroad soared more than 130%. The United Automobile Workers union said they have a majority of VW employees support and the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation wants employees to be aware of their rights. Sherrie Waters says Tabitha Smith was like a daughter to her and didn't realize it would be the last time she saw her. The latest attacks targeted Ubiquiti Edge routers still using the default username and password that they came with. If you do not have a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, but want to view unlimited articles for the month, please choose this option. A Granard business that is being forced to close due to rising costs says the government has failed to support small businesses and have contributed to difficult trading conditions in the hospitality sector. After over a year and a half in business, The Bailey Cafe in Granard has taken the difficult decision to close their doors in the face of escalating costs. This Saturday, February 24, the popular restaurant closes its doors for the last time. After working six days a week for the last 19 months Annmarie McKenna built up a strong customer base, but rising costs have forced her out of business. I am working to pay Revenue. I am not getting a wage out of it. Annmarie continued, It's just getting harder and harder to survive. You can only increase your prices so much, or people will stop coming in. I just had to do something. My debt to Revenue is still growing. I had no other choice. I just can't keep going. I've tried everything. Located adjacent to Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre at Rathcronan in Granard, The Bailey Cafe proved to be very popular with locals and visitors alike. They serve tasty home cooked breakfasts, dinners and daily lunch specials. The business owner said although the cafe was well supported the numbers were just not adding up. I built up a good customer base. I have customers who come in every day, but they are finding it hard as well. We had customers who came in every day, now only coming in twice a week. I was working six days a week. I had so much more to give, but it's starting to affect my health. Annemarie says the cost of living crisis is worsened by government decisions. The rate of Irish VAT which applies to certain goods and services, mainly in the tourism and hospitality sector, increased from 9% back to 13.5%, since September 1, 2023. On top of this the national minimum hourly rate became 12.70 on January 1, 2024. The irony is that many small business owners find themselves in a position where they no longer make enough profit to reach the minimum wage for themselves. Every householder is aware of spiralling costs, but for small businesses this is even more impactful. I got four heads of broccoli last week, it cost me 10. A box of chips increased by 5 in one year. Dairy products have increased by 25%. Electricity is bananas. I just can't continue to make the business work in the face of constant increases. Annemarie thanked all involved with the Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre for their support through her difficulties. The committee has been very good to me. They are very approachable and have tried to help out, but once that VAT increase came in I could no longer make this work. I was already struggling, but it made it harder. Since opening The Bailey Cafe has had many successes. They won a number of Irish Restaurant awards, hosted the Tralee Roses on tour and have been a venue for the Granard Booktown Festival. The decision to close has been a tough one. I had a great staff behind me, a great team. I was speaking to another business person who had to close their premises in similar circumstances recently, they said 'we haven't failed, the government has failed us'. That has stuck in my head since, Annemarie concluded. The Longford Lights Festival 2024 returns to Connolly Barracks in Longford Town from Friday, February 23 to Sunday, February 25 from 6pm to 9pm each evening. Find out everything you need to know to plan your visit! What to expect: the largest community-based arts lights festival in Ireland with thousands of lights on display across twenty-eight art installations, many of which are interactive for audiences. Visitors will experience an illuminated journey through the Connolly Barracks campus, with information boards on artists and installations on display throughout. Over 11,000 people attended last year and this year is anticipated to be even bigger again throughout the three evenings. There will be installations on display courtesy of twenty-three artists who worked with forty-three schools and community groups from around county Longford. Led by Artistic Director Caroline Conway, there will be increased performance and interactive elements to the festival this year, including from the internationally acclaimed Spanish troupe Cal y Canto Teatro. Longford Lights is largest festival of its kind in Ireland, there will be plenty to experience with samba drummers, fire dancers and gigantic video projections brimming over with vibrancy. That will be alongside the calming, beautiful, lantern installations which local crowds have now come to know and love. Tickets are still available. You will find a direct link to book your free tickets on the homepage of Longfordcoco.ie. You can present your ticket on your phone screen to get into the festival, or if you prefer, you can visit any Longford Library branch to print out your ticket for free. One ticket is required for every person attending. Making your way inside and around the event: The main entrance into Longford Lights will be surrounded by barriers with a temporary pedestrian crossing in place at Church Street. In the interest of health and safety, please follow the directions of Gardai and event stewards at all times. Traffic and Parking: Heavy traffic is anticipated throughout Longford town throughout the weekend, particularly on Battery Road, Church Street and Lower Main Street. We are asking people to utilise all public car parks as on-street parking will be limited and to plan to walk the few minutes to the venue from the car park of your choice. Some of the nearest options, for convenience include: Longford County Council car parks on Great Water Street and at Camlin Court; the Longford Town Centre car park and Geraldine Terrace car park next to it, as well as the Main Street Car Park and the St Mels Road car park. All of these locations are within a few minutes' walking distance of Connolly Barracks. Accessibility: If you or a member of your party requires access to disabled parking, please ensure to book your ticket in advance online and select the accessibility required ticket option. Organisers will be in touch via email with directions to suitable allocated parking options later this week. Please follow the directions of event stewards and Gardai on site. For those with sensory issues, Longford Lights aims to be a sensory-friendly experience with ambient low-level soundscapes throughout. However, performances by the Samba Band (anticipated at approximately 30-minute intervals) will be louder but can easily be avoided at the venue. Please seek advice from one of our friendly stewards if help is required. Be weather-ready: Please dress appropriately for seasonal February weather with good walking shoes and waterproofs, especially in the event of rain. The festival is predominantly outdoor and walking paths are mostly flat and suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Health and Safety: As Longford Lights festival stewards will be identifiable by high-visibility clothing, we would appreciate it if attendees avoid wearing high-visibility clothing to prevent any confusion. Led by Longford County Council and its Arts Office, the festival is a partnership with Mide Arts Group with support from the Arts Council, Creative Ireland, and Longford Tourism, also part of Longford County Council. Looking forward to the event, Cathaoirleach of Longford County Counci, Colm Murray, said, It's great to see Longford Lights back and growing in confidence as it promises to be even bigger than last year. I look forward to the fantastic atmosphere which this festival brings to Longford Town. I encourage everyone to book your free tickets and come along to see this spectacle. Artistic Director Caroline Conway spoke of the coming together of the local and artistic communities saying, Longford Lights is different to other festivals in the way the local community is the foundation of the whole project. Working together with both international and local artists, this years festival promises to be more interactive for audiences and we cant wait for you to see it! Ms Conway said. Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon added, Longford Lights Festival demonstrates the Councils commitment to the arts and the value we recognise in a vibrant local arts and culture sector. We look forward to seeing what all the artists and the local community will showcase this coming weekend. The festival runs from 6pm to 9pm each evening, on the weekend of Friday, February 23 to Sunday, February 25. Large attendance is anticipated so to avoid disappointment book your free ticket by finding a direct link to tickets on the homepage of Longfordcoco.ie. Follow Longford County Council on social media for further information on Longford Lights. On his visit to Albania, Secretary of State Antony Blinken lauded the stronger than ever partnership between the United States and Albania. He noted, in particular, that Albania has been from day one a strong supporter of Ukraine. It was one of the first countries to send military aid to Ukraine in the wake of the Russian aggression guns, ammunition, mine resistant vehicles and its currently one of the top ten per capita in terms of its support for Ukraine and security assistance, he said. During its 15 year membership in NATO, Albania has made significant contributions to the alliance, said Secretary Blinken: Albanian troops are helping to keep the peace in Kosovo to deter Russian aggression on NATOs eastern flank. Next month, Albania will inaugurate a NATO airbase in Kucove. The United States and Albania are also growing their bilateral security partnership, said Secretary Blinken: Albanians and Americans have fought side by side from Afghanistan to Iraq. Albanian pilots fly American-made Blackhawks. U.S. Special Forces are training their Albanian counterparts and helping to keep watch in the Balkans. In the wake of the recent Iranian cyber-attacks targeting Albanian critical infrastructure, the United States has supported Albania cyber defenses, helping to train experts, to upgrade equipment, to improve technology so that theyre more resilient to future attacks. In an effort to promote justice reform in Albania, Secretary Blinken met with key judges and prosecutors. Well continue to strongly support Albania in these efforts, which are critical steps toward Albania joining the European Union and what the people in Albania deserve, said Secretary Blinken. Democracies continue to be threatened by disinformation, which fuels division and erodes trust. The U.S. and Albania signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a shared approach to countering dangerous distortions and lies and build a resilient information ecosystem. With regard to economic growth, Secretary Blinken noted that American investment in Albania has tripled since 2019, and it will only grow more as the business climate continues to improve. Our companies are exploring hydropower, wind, solar projects in Albania. These have great potential to diversify Albanian energy resources and sources to help our shared planet and to create inclusive economic growth for everyone, he said. The United States remains committed to expanding its already strong relationship with Albania in the years to come. A Judge has ordered Gemma O'Doherty to appear before the High Court to answer her alleged refusal to obey an order not to harass the mother of a young man who died by suicide. Mr Justice Mark Sanfey made the ruling after the being satisfied that Ms O'Doherty had breached the terms of a court order and should come before the Court on Friday morning to answer her alleged contempt. The judge granted the order sought on behalf of Edel Campbell, who is suing Ms O'Doherty over the use of an image of her late son, Diego Gilsenan, on a publication run by the defendant. Ms O'Doherty was not in court on Wednesday when the application was made. Last June Ms Campbell's lawyers obtained orders from the court against Ms O'Doherty including an injunction restraining the defendant from harassing, intimidating or communicating with the plaintiff and her family. Ms Campbell, represented by David Kennedy SC, appearing with Paul Comiskey O'Keeffe Bl instructed by solicitor Ciaran Mulholland, claims the order has been breached on "numerous occasions" by Ms O'Doherty. It is claimed that in a series of video posts made by Ms O'Doherty on dates in June, July, August and September of last year, and earlier this year the defendant has made statements in clear disregard and in breach of the injunction. In his ruling Mr Justice Sanfey said it was very clear what the High Court had in mind when it granted the injunction against Ms O'Doherty last June which was to halt the intimidation of Ms Campbell. The judge said that Ms O'Doherty, and comments posted on the Irish Light's social media account, had made many references about Ms Campbell, and the circumstances of the unfortunate death of her son. The court heard that Ms O'Doherty had stated that Ms Campbell was telling lies, made remakes about the plaintiff's mental health and had questions to answer about her son's death. Online posts allegedly from the Irish Light, a publication linked to the defendant, described the order as an attempt to prevent and silence Gemma O'Doherty, who describes herself as an investigative journalist, from probing what she says are unexplained deaths of young people. One post, the judge noted, said that Ms Campbell was being used as part of an "anti-Gemma psyop" by the defendant's enemies. In her application Ms Campbell claims the injunction had been "ineffective" in halting the alleged intimidation of the plaintiff by Ms O'Doherty, the judge said. Nobody could be under any illusion that the intimidation of Ms Campbell by the defendant has continued after the injunction was granted, the Judge said. He added that "journalism could not be used as an excuse for the sort of conduct that the defendant has appeared to engage in." "Journalism" he said "is a rigorous exercise of fact checking and giving both sides of the story." The court also noted that Ms O'Doherty who he said was apparently on a speaking tour, had not come to court either for Wednesday hearing, nor when the injunction was sought last June, to defend her position. He was further satisfied that she was aware of and had been properly served with the proceedings. In the circumstances the judge said he was satisfied to grant an order of attachment, which requires Ms O'Doherty to come before the court and answer claims that she is in contempt. During the course of the hearing the judge warned that any recording or filming of the proceedings could be a contempt of court, and anyone who sought to disrupt the proceedings would be asked to leave. The judge made his remarks after Mr Kennedy said that when a recording of a previous hearing of the application had been posted on-line, and after a somebody from the public gallery shouted that the hearing was "a farce". Several persons holding copies of the Irish Light attended court on Wednesday. In his submissions Mr Kennedy said that much of what had been said in the posts about his client was "particularly egregious." Counsel said that what was said was "clearly designed to intimidate and part of a campaign" against Ms Campbell. who has suffered emotional harm and distress as a result. Counsel said that "freedom of speech is important," but when one looked at the comments made by Ms O'Doherty about his client "there has to be a limitation on it." The court had previously heard that Ms O'Doherty denies any wrongdoing. Ms Campbell sought the injunctions as part of her action against Ms O'Doherty over the alleged unauthorised publication of the image of plaintiff's late son. She claims Ms O'Doherty has wrongly and unlawfully used the image of the plaintiff's son in an article published on media controlled by Ms O'Doherty linking unexplained deaths to the Covid-19 vaccination. The injunction restrains Ms O'Doherty from harassing the plaintiff, or from publishing Ms Campbell's and her late son's images or any personal confidential material about them. Ms ODoherty is also restrained from encouraging or inciting others to intimidate the plaintiff and was ordered to take down and remove any image of Ms Campbell and her late son from any form of media that she owned or operated by the defendant. That order is to remains in place pending the final outcome of Ms Campbell's action against Ms O'Doherty, trading as 'The Irish Light'. www.irishlightpaper.com The plaintiff claims Ms O'Doherty is a journalist and the publisher of The Irish Light, a free periodical newspaper, and the publisher/editor of the website. Following Mr Gilsenan's death in August 2021 it is claimed that Ms O'Doherty used the image of the plaintiff's son in an article which wrongly stated that he died as a result of the administration of the Covid-19 vaccination. Ms Campbell, from Kingscourt, Co Cavan, claims that Ms O'Doherty has refused to stop using her son's image and that the unauthorised and repeated use of her son's image amounts to harassment and a breach of her constitutional rights She claims the defendant's actions have caused her emotional pain, suffering and harm. Ms O'Doherty rejects all of the allegations of wrongdoing made against her. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: February 21 2024 Employees look forward to participating in Wear Red Day, and similar fundraising events throughout the year, said Islip Supervisor, Angie Carpenter. Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter, Councilman Mike McElwee and Town Clerk Linda Vavricka presented South Shore University Hospital and Good Samaritan University Hospital each with checks for $200 to their respective heart health research programs. The funds were raised through the Towns annual Wear Red Day during the American Heart Associations Go Red for Women initiative designed to increase womens heart health awareness. Town employees donated $5 to the cause, raising a total of $400 for two local hospitals. Employees look forward to participating in Wear Red Day, and similar fundraising events throughout the year. Its our way of giving back to our community, said Islip Supervisor, Angie Carpenter. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the statewide expansion of a program that has successfully rehoused hundreds of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in New York City, including many who struggle with severe mental illness, after successfully helping 330 long-term homeless New Yorkers get into stable housing. Administered by the Office of Mental Health, the Safe Operations Support program has expanded to serve the Finger Lakes, Capital Region, Southern Tier, Hudson Valley, Erie County, Westchester County and Long Island to provide support and help find permanent housing for individuals experiencing homelessness on the streets. In addition, under the Governors leadership, state agencies proposed regulations to ensure follow-up care for individuals leaving emergency and inpatient psychiatric settings and to establish network adequacy standards to ensure shorter wait times for behavioral health services. Chronic homelessness is not an issue confined to one region of our state, and we must ensure effective programs reach far and wide, Governor Hochul said. By establishing Safe Options Supports teams throughout the state and more widely recognizing the link between homelessness and behavioral health challenges, we can help more individuals living with unmet mental health needs find stability. Administered by the Office of Mental Health, the Safe Options Support program has added four teams to serve Rochester and the Finger Lakes region; Albany, Schenectady and Saratoga counties in the Capital Region; Broome, Chenango and Otsego counties in the Southern Tier; and Orange and Dutchess counties in the Hudson Valley. These teams join three others that began serving communities in Erie County, Westchester County and Long Island last fall. Earlier today, Governor Hochul met with staff from these multidisciplinary teams based in New York City and discussed their work and experiences in helping New Yorkers experiencing chronic homelessness to achieve stability, having conducted a similar visit with them in October. In addition, the Governor met with individuals helped into permanent housing through the program and heard accounts of the critical supports they received to address their situation. The 14 teams now operating in New York City have helped find permanent housing for more than 330 formerly homeless individuals of the roughly 2,000 individuals living with mental illness on the streets or in the subway system. These teams have had approximately15,000 outreach encounters and enrolled more than 1,200 clients with serious mental illness into the program since its inception in 2022. These teams use Critical Time Intervention, an evidence-based practice that helps connect vulnerable individuals in crisis to housing and services. Outreach and referral-based teams work with individuals experiencing homelessness to strengthen their skills and support network so that care can successfully be transferred to community-based providers. The teams provide coordinated care transition and support throughout the engagement process, including post-housing placement. Initially provided $25 million in the FY 2023 State Budget, Governor Hochul expanded funding for this program to nearly $34 million. Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, The work of the Safe Options Support teams extends from initial street outreach to providing support to the individuals they help into temporary and ultimately permanent housing. Through trust and relationship building, these teams can help vulnerable individuals connect with the critical services and assistance they can rely for their recovery. By fully embracing this successful model, Governor Hochul is bringing critical mental health supports to New Yorkers and strengthening our states system of care overall. Additionally, OMH is codifying regulations that will guide the discharge of individuals from inpatient and emergency psychiatric settings. Likewise, the Department of Health drafted similar regulation changes for admissions and discharges from emergency room settings, which were posted today. As part of this overall effort strengthen mental health care, the Department of Financial Services proposed regulations to establish network adequacy standards for behavioral health services for commercial insurers. The regulations establish appointment wait times for mental health and substance use disorder services, and when an in-network provider is not available within those standards, the regulations will require insurers to allow access to an out-of-network provider who can meet those standards, at no additional cost. The Department of Health has proposed similar behavioral health network adequacy standards that will apply to the Medicaid program. The proposed regulations are subject to a 60-day comment period upon publication in the State Register. New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, Chronic homelessness can take a devastating toll on a persons mental and physical wellbeing. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to addressing homelessness in this state and providing resources and support to New Yorkers to help them maintain stability and good health. New York State Department of Financial Services Superintendent Adrienne A. Harris said, This proposed regulation will improve access to desperately needed mental health and substance use treatment for all New Yorkers. The Department is committed to breaking down barriers to critical care and today's proposal continues our efforts to build a more equitable, transparent, and resilient health care system in New York. Governor Hochuls $1 billion mental health agenda recognizes the links between chronic homelessness, substance use disorder, and severe mental health challenges. In addition to creating thousands of housing units, the plan includes increased operational capacity for inpatient psychiatric treatment and $50 million to help community-based hospitals expand capacity; increased funding for in-school youth mental health programs; and increased insurance coverage for mental health services and substance use disorder treatment. Governor Hochuls plan to strengthen mental health care statewide has also helped increase the number of inpatient psychiatric beds, including bringing online nearly 500 beds at community-based hospitals that were previously closed around the COVID-19 pandemic. The state has also established 150 beds at state-operated psychiatric facilities in the last year and will add an additional 200 beds under Governor Hochuls FY 2025 Executive Budget, including 75 Transition to Home beds, targeting those with recurring criminal justice involvement and a history of chronic homelessness. Governor Hochuls plan is also bolstering outpatient mental health support to ensure more New Yorkers can get high-quality outpatient care. In December 2023, the state funded 13 new Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, with plans to fund another 13 later this year. The plan is also providing funding for specialized housing with wraparound services for individuals living with serious mental illness. To date, OMH has released roughly $768 million to procurement to bolster residential programs for people with mental illness statewide. Two years ago, Russia invaded its neighbor, Ukraine. But that war did not begin on February 24, 2022. It has been ongoing in the country's east since 2014, when Russian-trained and armed proxies in the so-called Donbas region attempted to break away from Ukraine and integrate into Russia. Numerous efforts to settle the situation by diplomatic means, the so-called Minsk Agreements, did not result in a lasting solution. Russia ignored all commitments it made as a signatory of the Minsk agreements, said U.S. Alternate Representative to the UN, Robert Wood. Russia and no one else is responsible for this war, which has caused so much bloodshed in the past decade. Russia invaded Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and eastern Ukraine. It funded, prepared, and led proxy forces in an attempt to establish an artificial pretext to prevent Ukrainians from exercising their right to self-determination, he said. No amount of disinformation, or attempts by the Russian Federation to re-write history, can change that fact, said Ambassador Wood: Russia is and always has been the sole instigator of this conflict. It participated directly in the negotiation of the Minsk agreements, and its direct representative signed the three documents constituting the agreements in 2014 and 2015 Russia reaffirmed at the Normandy Four Summit in 2019 that all three Minsk agreements remained the basis for the peace process. And then Russia launched a full-scale invasion of the sovereign nation of Ukraine, said Ambassador Wood. While other Minsk agreement signatories sought to implement their commitments in good faith, President Putin cast them aside in favor of revanchist greed, he said. Russias ultimate intention remains to fully subjugate Ukraine and deny the existence of a unique Ukrainian identity. The fundamental purpose of the Minsk agreements, as defined by all signatories, was to fully reintegrate the conflict area with the rest of Ukraine and restore Ukraines territorial integrity but Russia is not interested in peace. We learned from the debacle of the Minsk Agreements that peace agreements alone will not end the violence, because Russia is not interested in abiding by international law. Putins decision to launch an unprovoked and unjustifiable war against his neighbor, have fully and forever nullified the Minsk agreements, said Ambassador Wood. The United States calls on Russia to stop its relentless attacks against Ukraine and its people, withdraw its forces from Ukraines territory, and end this brutal war today. Prime minister also confirmed reports that Nicolas Mackel will become countrys new EU ambassador Jean-Paul Olinger has been named as the new head of the countrys tax office Jean-Paul Olinger has been named as the new head of the countrys tax office Photo credit: Chris Karaba Jean-Paul Olinger has been named as the new head of the countrys tax office Photo credit: Chris Karaba The government has appointed Jean-Paul Olinger, the director of business lobby group UEL, as the new head of the countrys tax office, Prime Minister Luc Frieden said on Wednesday. Nicolas Mackel, a career diplomat and finance lobbyist, has also been confirmed as Luxembourgs new EU ambassador - as had been reported by the Luxemburger Wort last week - Frieden told a press conference following a cabinet meeting. Olinger, who has been the general manager of the Union des Entreprises Luxembourgeoises since 2018 and is a former KPMG tax partner, will take over at the Administration des Contributions Directes, Frieden said. Olinger will take over from Pascale Toussing, who was shown the door at the end of last year, reportedly over her failure to modernise the administration that rakes in half of all tax revenues. Also read: Tax office looks for new director amid delays, hiring woes Frieden said that Olingers task would be to turn the tax department into a modern, contemporary administration, describing efforts to modernise the tax office as a big and permanent construction site. Olinger was one of around half a dozen candidates whose applications were assessed by a recruitment committee, Frieden said. Olinger will leave his post at the UEL on 30 April, the body said in a press release following Friedens announcement. A replacement at the head of the UEL will be sought in the next few weeks, the statement added. Toussing, the former tax office chief, left her post under a cloud last year. The incoming coalition reportedly blocked the re-appointment of Toussing in response to hiring problems, delays and a lack of progress in digitalising tax services, media outlet Reporter said. Also read: Hiring at tax office improves but still missing target Frieden also announced that Mackel, the head of Luxembourg for Finance (LFF), the state-sponsored agency that promotes Luxembourgs financial centre, will become the countrys ambassador at the Permanent Representation to the European Union in Brussels. Mackel was a career diplomat with experience at various international postings, the prime minister said, adding that he will also bring in his expertise of running LFF. Also read: Two out of three Luxembourg tax departments seeking new director Sylvie Lucas, whom Mackel will replace, has been appointed ambassador in Berlin. The outgoing president of the State Council, Christophe Schiltz who heads the international aid department in the foreign ministry, has been named Luxembourgs new ambassador in Rome, Frieden also said. The prime minister said he could not comment on whether Schiltz would continue serving as a regular member of the State Council. Belgium and Luxembourgs defence ministers Ludivine Dedonder and Yuriko Backes (c.) with Luxembourg chief of defence Steve Thull (r.) at the delivery of the last A400M aircraft to the joint fleet Belgium and Luxembourgs defence ministers Ludivine Dedonder and Yuriko Backes (c.) with Luxembourg chief of defence Steve Thull (r.) at the delivery of the last A400M aircraft to the joint fleet Photo credit: Photo: Belgian Armed Forces Belgium and Luxembourgs defence ministers Ludivine Dedonder and Yuriko Backes (c.) with Luxembourg chief of defence Steve Thull (r.) at the delivery of the last A400M aircraft to the joint fleet Photo credit: Photo: Belgian Armed Forces The last of eight A400M transport aircraft of a joint Belgium-Luxembourg unit was delivered Tuesday, with both countries also signing an agreement to establish a steering committee to push forward the creation of a joint Nato reconnaissance battalion. Luxembourg shares one-eighth of the cost of the joint fleet after agreeing to spend 420 million to buy and operate one of the A400M planes. The plane owned by the Grand Duchy was delivered in October 2020, and was used for example in the evacuation of civilians from Afghanistan in August 2021 after the Taliban took power in the country. Belgium on Tuesday took possession of its seventh and final aircraft, with the fleet forming part of the 15th Air Transport Wing of the Belgian armed forces. The A400M military transport aircraft unit is the flagship project of Belgian-Luxembourg cooperation, said Minister of Defence Yuriko Backes in a statement, calling the project exemplary for European defence efforts and the strengthening of Nato capacity. Nato spending pledge Luxembourg has committed to increasing military spending to 2% of gross national income over the next decade, with the government due to present a plan to Nato allies at a Washington D.C. summit in July. Nato members in 2014 pledged to spend 2% of their gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but Luxembourg last year successfully negotiated an exemption due to its outsized GDP compared to the size of its military of just 900 active soldiers with no cost-heavy air force or navy branches. Also read: Nato defence spending rises to half of global total GNI, a different measure of a countrys wealth, excludes the contributions from cross-border workers to Luxembourgs economy. Luxembourgs GNI per capita was $91,200 (84,000) in 2022, according to World Bank data, or $59.3 billion (54.6 billion). GDP on the other hand was $82.3 billion (75.8 billion). Joint army battalion To further expand their military cooperation, Belgium and Luxembourg on Tuesday agreed to set up a steering committee to start operational work on establishing a joint reconnaissance unit between both armies. Plans for the joint unit were first presented in June 2021, and Belgium and Luxembourg have since created a working group and signed numerous declarations of intent. The so-called Ermesinde agreement signed Tuesday should be a step forward in negotiating the technical details of the reconnaissance battalion. Expanding Luxembourgs intelligence and reconnaissance capacities is one of the strategic pillars of a 2023 military strategy presented under the previous government, which also entered the agreement with Belgium on the joint unit. The CSV-DP coalition, which took office last year, in its government programme committed to creating the battalion with its neighbour. Luxembourg has yet to present a budget for the unit, which will require the military to hire around 100 people, chief of defence Steve Thull said in 2022. The Grand Duchy that year signed a letter of intent to support the development of solar-powered drones and said it would invest in unmanned aerial vehicle technology for observation and surveillance purposes. The Ministry of Defence in January committed on spending 12 million to help refurbish a Nato air base in Estonia as part of its pledge to increase defence spending. Government cannot help Gazans in Luxembourg evacuate their families from the war zone, says Luc Frieden Luc Frieden arriving for press briefing on Wednesday, where he said the government has concluded it cannot help evacuate the families of Gazans to Luxembourg Luc Frieden arriving for press briefing on Wednesday, where he said the government has concluded it cannot help evacuate the families of Gazans to Luxembourg Photo credit: SIP / Claude Piscitelli Luc Frieden arriving for press briefing on Wednesday, where he said the government has concluded it cannot help evacuate the families of Gazans to Luxembourg Photo credit: SIP / Claude Piscitelli The Luxembourg government cannot help rescue the relatives of Gazans stuck in the strip of land under attack by Israel, Prime Minister Luc Frieden said on Wednesday. Gazans living in the Grand Duchy have been lobbying the government to help evacuate family members stuck in the Gaza Strip that has been under attack from Israel since Hamas launched deadly strikes against civilians on 7 October that killed nearly 1,400 people. Its not easy and in most cases impossible to get people out of Gaza, said Frieden during a press briefing after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday. We dont see a possibility to get people out of the Gaza strip to Luxembourg. The LSAP opposition this week had slammed the governments lack of action, saying there is no political will to support the families of Gazans living in the country. Also read: Opposition urges government to evacuate Gazans to Luxembourg Luxembourgs neighbours have only been able to evacuate their citizens from Gaza, the premier said, countering claims by the LSAP that other EU members had provided help. None of the individuals that Gazans in Luxembourg are wanting to evacuate are Luxembourg nationals. Our thoughts are with them, said Frieden, adding that Luxembourg continues delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. It was one of only a handful of countries that kept money flowing to the UNs agency for relief for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, after allegations that members of staff were involved in the Hamas attacks. Help on site for us is the right answer in this context, the PM said. The government with a heavy heart decided that it can take no further action, Frieden said. Children pictured outside a tent sheltering displaced Palestinians in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on 8 February 8 Photo credit: AFP None of the cases submitted to the home affairs ministry so far meets the requirements for family reunification, Frieden said. The prime minister, however, also said that the government would not review these criteria given the critical situation in Gaza, where nearly 30,000 people have been killed, according to the Palestinian health authorities. The UN has warned of a risk of famine. A Red Cross spokesperson has called the situation beyond catastrophic a nightmare. Around two-thirds of all buildings in Gaza have been destroyed, satellite data analysis by the Associated Press shows. Also read: Gazans in Luxembourg plead for family reunification Nobody knows where loosening family reunification rules would lead, Frieden said. While the LSAP estimated that there are around 200 family members of Gazans in Luxembourg stuck in the territory, this number cannot be independently verified. Luxembourg cannot currently provide accommodation for this number of people, Frieden said. We would not be able to accommodate and integrate them in the long-term, he said. We wouldnt be able to manage. While everyone would like to take in those in need from Syria, Afghanistan or Gaza, this is simply not possible, the premier said. The countrys asylum seeker shelters are almost fully occupied, the foreign affairs ministry said last year, after waitlisting some single, male refugees who could not get a spot in state-run facilities. Also read: Crowded shelters keep turning away refugees despite cold snap Study finds that improving access to information and simplifying procedures would help boost the number of people who are getting aid aimed at alleviating poverty A family at the Cent Buttek social grocery store in Beggen. Amidst growing numbers of people at risk of poverty, access to aid programmes must be improved says a new study A family at the Cent Buttek social grocery store in Beggen. Amidst growing numbers of people at risk of poverty, access to aid programmes must be improved says a new study Photo credit: Gerry Huberty A family at the Cent Buttek social grocery store in Beggen. Amidst growing numbers of people at risk of poverty, access to aid programmes must be improved says a new study Photo credit: Gerry Huberty Luxembourg administrations should introduce a zero tolerance for staff who stigmatise or shame those living in poverty and seeking aid, a survey published on Tuesday concludes, with more awareness raising and easier access to support also needed to make sure money reaches those in need. Estimates show that only 60% of those eligible for the allocation de vie chere, a cost of living allowance, and just 20% of tenants who could get rent subsidy actually obtain these forms of financial aid. To get to the bottom of this lack of uptake, the Chamber of Employees commissioned a study into access to aid and why so few obtain it. While we welcome the governments statement on poverty, we think this study can help it in taking action. Nora Back President, Chamber of Employees While the new governments has said that the fight against poverty is one of its priorities, there has been little evidence of concrete policy so far, said Nora Back, president of the Chamber of Employees. We welcome the governments statement on poverty, but we think this study can help it in taking action. For all that it is the richest country in the world (as measured by GDP per capita), 20% of Luxembourgs residents are deemed at risk of poverty. More than one in ten employees (13.5%) are at risk of poverty compared to the eurozone average of 8.9%, according to a study published in April 2023 by the Chamber of Employees. The authors of the new report conducted around 40 interviews with a wide range of people in precarious circumstances. Many were in full- or part-time employment, while a significant number also survived on the Social Inclusion Income (Revis). Others were on partial unemployment schemes, retired or worked as freelancers. The subjects were mostly private tenants, but the study also spoke to homeowners with a mortgage as well as people in social housing, living with their parents or in supervised housing. Access to information primordial Some of the aid programmes - such as the cost of living allowance - are generally well-publicised in Luxembourg. However, there is a primordial need for access to information for other programmes including rent subsidies and tax credits for single parents, the studys authors conclude. This is particularly crucial for those immigrants who may not be aware that a specific aid programme exists, often because similar programmes are not available in their home country. Others may not know that they are eligible to apply for assistance. Also read: Poverty in Luxembourg exploding as homeless charity helps record numbers Those who do apply for aid face additional challenges.. Eligibility criteria are often unclear, and rejections may seem unfair. One single parent who was unemployed and had moved back in with her parents along with her three children was refused the cost of living allowance because the total income of the household exceeded the permissible threshold. A fresh look at eligibility conditions should be considered, said Lisers Anne-Catherine Guio in recommendation to policymakers. That should include reviewing income thresholds and ensuring that aid is progressive as well as taking into account only the income of the immediate household. One-stop shop Simplifying application procedures by introducing online submissions and developing a one-stop-shop would also help ease access, the study concludes. In some cases, applications have to be resubmitted every year. The government has said in its coalition agreement that it wants to examine the possibility of developing a Guichet Sociale and simplifying processes using the once only principal. On Wednesday, the Luxembourg arm of charity Caritas also called for the automation of application processes as well as a review of the Revis. But Back had emphasised that the study unveiled on Thursday was not about challenging the levels of individual subsidies and grants. Delays in payments can cause stress for people in poverty. One single parent said that after renewing the application for her monthly rent subsidy in January 2022, she had to wait until September before she received any money. After being fobbed off over the telephone, she eventually sent a registered letter to resolve the situation. The language which administrations use to reply to applicants also needs to be carefully considered. They should try to use simple language that is easily understandable, especially as many applicants may not be that fluent in one of the countrys official languages, said Anne Franziskus of Statec, which helped compile the survey. The attitude of some of the staff at administrations also clearly needs to be improved. One single mother who had to produce three months worth of bank statements for a minimum wage application, was asked why she was buying her groceries at Cactus rather than Lidl. A masters student was told he should find a full-time job using his bachelors degree and give up studying. Shaming applicants, who often feel they have to justify why they are applying for aid for which they are rightfully eligible, is something that needs to be addressed, said Guio. Those that experience rudeness or suffer the stigma of being refused aid are unlikely to apply again, she said. Are you ready for the first CESOP reporting? The first reporting obligation to analyze payment data collected by Member States, in compliance with the requirements of the Central Electronic System of Payment (CESOP) database, is due by the end of April 2024. The objective is to reduce the expected EUR 61 billion VAT gap for 2021, as reported by the European Commission in 2023. We already know that iOS 17.4 will be a game-changing update for the iPhone, with support for alternative app stores and payments in the EU, a handful of new emoji, and virtual numbers for Apple Cash cards, but Apple has one more feature in store when it launches sometime over the next few weeks. In a post on its Security Research blog, Apple has outlined a new state-of-the-art security upgrade for iMessage that has the strongest security properties of any at-scale messaging protocol in the world. Its all very technical, but Apple will be deploying post-quantum cryptography Level 3 (PQ3), which is used to secure both the initial key establishment and the ongoing message exchange, with the ability to rapidly and automatically restore the cryptographic security of a conversation even if a given key becomes compromised. That means a hacker would need to crack two symmetric keys that go beyond any of the available methods used in even the most highly sophisticated attacks. Apple Apple notes that Signal was the first large-scale messaging service to use post-quantum cryptography with the recent addition of PQXDH support, which elevated the apps security from Level 1 to Level 2. However, Apple says iMessages new PQ3 protocol takes it a step further Heres how Apple describes the protocol in action: When Alices device instantiates a new session with Bobs device, her device queries the IDS server for the key bundle associated with Bobs device. The subset of the key bundle that contains the devices authentication key and versioning information is validated using Contact Key Verification. The device then validates the signature covering the encryption keys and timestamps, which attests that the keys are valid and have not expired. Alices device can then use the two public encryption keys to share two symmetric keys with Bob. The first symmetric key is computed through an ECDH key exchange that combines an ephemeral encryption key from Alice with Bobs registered P-256 public key. The second symmetric key is obtained from a Kyber key encapsulation with Bobs post-quantum public key. This combination ensures that the initial session state cannot be derived without knowing both of the shared secrets, meaning an attacker would need to break both algorithms to recover the resulting secret, thus satisfying our hybrid security requirement. iMessage has been used in high-level zero-click government attacks, most notably Israeli NSO Groups spy software Pegasus. Apple says the new system is essential for safeguarding against known and unknown future attacks and will protect against agents who have already collected encrypted data for future decryption. Apple says the new protocol will start to roll out with the public releases of iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, macOS 14.4, and watchOS 10.4, and is already in the developer and public beta releases. "This relocation will allow us to power up our vital work in preserving our national manu (bird). The kiwi is a protected species and the population needs a little added support sometimes, ensuring its numbers flourish well into the future," she said. Jacob A. Braunschweig, 31, was arrested Feb. 12, 2024, at 1660 Mountain City Hwy. and charged with robbery, domestic battery by strangulation and fourth-degree arson. Bail: $165,000 Dakota L. Brock, 32, was arrested Feb. 13, 2024, at the 800 block of Railroad Street on a felony warrant charging third-offense possession of a controlled substance and using or possessing drug paraphernalia. Bail: $15,355 Raul Guerrero, 33, was arrested Feb. 14, 2024, at 340 Commercial St. and charged with violation of probation or condition of a suspended sentence, possession of a controlled substance between 28 and 42 grams and destroying or concealing evidence. Bail: $105,000 Bret L. Miller, 44, was arrested Feb. 14, 2024, at 4526 South 600 East in West Wendover, on charges of felony possession to sell a controlled substance, third-offense attempted possession of a controlled substance less than 14 grams, using or possessing drug paraphernalia and NCJIS detainer. Bail: $63,640 Cole A. Bartiromo, 39, was arrested Feb. 15, 2024, at the Elko County Jail on two counts of unlawful dissemination of an intimate image of a person. Bail: $30,000 Russell A. Bingamon, 32, was arrested Feb. 15, 2024, at 551 Cimmaron Way and charged with violation of probation or condition of a suspended sentence. Josue D. Cartagena-Alfaro, 39, was arrested Feb. 17, 2024, in Kent, Washington, on a gross misdemeanor bench warrant and a misdemeanor bench warrant. Bail: $16,600 Victor D. Zambrano-Lopez, 25, was arrested Feb. 17, 2024, at 2243 North Hollow Drive and charged with owning or possessing a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of a controlled substance, and discharging a weapon where a person might be endangered. Bail: $112,500 Kes D. Campos, 26, was arrested Feb. 18, 2024, at 1647 Maggie Court in Carlin on charges of felony child abuse or neglect and domestic battery. Bail: $100,000 Caleb A. Marker, 46, was arrested Feb. 18, 2024, at the Red Garter Casino in West Wendover and charged with domestic battery by strangulation. Bail: $50,000 Nathan J. Scharadin, 25, was arrested Feb. 18, 2024, at 1647 Maggie Court in Carlin on charges of child abuse or neglect. Bail: $100,000 Manchester, VT (05254) Today Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this morning. High around 40F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 40%.. Tonight Occasional snow showers. Low 28F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. ELKO A pack of cigarettes tossed in the trash led to the arrest of an Elko man on suspicion of carrying more than 34 grams of fentanyl pills. Raul Guerrero, 33, was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance between 28 and 42 grams and a gross misdemeanor charge of destroying evidence. According to court documents, two Elko police officers conducting a security check at the Stockmens casino observed a man identified as Guerrero gambling. As police reported Guerrero gambling to the Nevada Parole and Probation office through Elko Central Dispatch, the officer began talking to another man and observed Guerrero holding a pack of cigarettes as he dumped his ashtray. Police said parole and probation advised the officer not to arrest Guerrero and that he was free to leave. After Guerrero left, the officer, who observed the cigarettes had disappeared, checked the trash can. He recovered the cigarettes and discovered a bag of blue pills stuffed inside the pack. Guerrero took the cigarettes out of the officers hand and attempted to flee. But the officers grabbed Guerrero and placed him in handcuffs. A closer search of the cigarette pack revealed two plastic baggies of blue pills imprinted with the M on one side and 30 on the other side, which police recognized as fentanyl. The combined weight of the pills was 34.51 grams. Police reported the incident to the probation office, which advised Guerrero to be placed on a parole and probation hold. Guerrero has been convicted in Elko District and Elko Justice courts. Guerrero pleaded guilty and was convicted of one count of conspiracy to violate the Uniformed Controlled Substances Act in Elko District Court on May 10, 2017. He was given a suspended sentence of five years in prison by former Elko District Judge Nancy Porter and was placed on probation for five years and ordered to abstain from gambling, alcohol and marijuana use. He also pleased guilty and was convicted in April 2017 of conspiracy to commit burglary and sentenced to 100 days in jail in Elko District Court by Porter. That month, he separately pleaded guilty to using or possessing drug paraphernalia in Elko Justice Court in April 2017. According to Elko County Sheriffs records, Guerrero was arrested in 2020 on a violation of parole and probation. In 2022, he was arrested in Wells on possession of a controlled substance, drug paraphernalia, possessing a debit or credit card without the owners consent and possession of a stun gun or other device by a felon or fugitive. James Taylor and His All-Star Band are coming to Boston in September as part of their summer 2024 tour where theyll make eight stops in New England. The 75-year-old folk-rock legend will begin his 2024 tour in Tokyo, Japan on April 6. Hell then visit Australia and New Zealand before coming to the United States and will be in Boston, MA at MGM Music Hall at Fenway on September 9 and 10. Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, February 23 at 10 a.m. but fans can shop for tickets online now using reliable third-party tickets vendors such as StubHub and VividSeats. As of Tuesday, Feb. 20 the cheapest tickets for the shows in Boston, MA are listed below: Taylor & Co. will also make another stop in Massachusetts with a pair of shows scheduled for July 3 and July 4 at Tanglewood Music Center Campus in Lenox, Massachusetts. The following list is the eight shows in New England with links to purchase tickets: A group of 20 landlords and real estate brokers who do business in Boston are being sued over claims of discrimination against housing voucher holders. The lawsuit, filed in Suffolk County Superior Court, claims that the brokers, on behalf of the landlords they were working for, told people who reached about available apartments that Section 8 and other housing vouchers would not be accepted, which is illegal under state law. As the largest fair housing lawsuit by defendant size in Massachusetts history, this lawsuit sends a clear message to every landlord and broker in the state: if you are a real estate company that discriminates against families and children with housing vouchers, the question of whether you will be caught is not a matter of if, but when, said Aaron Carr, founder and executive director of Housing Rights Initiative, the nonprofit organization that filed the lawsuit Wednesday. Housing vouchers are provided through federal or state programs and administered by municipal housing authorities and provide a set amount each month toward the recipients rent. They are not tied to any specific location, with the goal of giving recipients the option to live in areas they would not be able to afford otherwise. In Massachusetts, more than 90,000 households received federal housing vouchers as of November 2023, and 10,000 received state vouchers as of December 2022, according to the complaint. An additional 475 people received vouchers through the state-run Alternative Housing Voucher Program, which serves people under 60 with disabilities, as of January 2019. State law makes it illegal to discriminate against any recipient of public assistance, including housing vouchers, because the individual is such a recipient, or because of any requirement of such public assistance, rental assistance or housing subsidy program. According to the complaint, HRI had people pose as potential tenants and contact real estate agents about available listings with rents that fell within the requirements of the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program and AHVP. In text messages included in the complaint, the brokers named in the lawsuit, who were working with the named landlords, initially showed interest in working with the testers, but changed once the tester asked about using a voucher, explicitly saying that the unit or landlord did not accept vouchers. Defendants refusal to accept vouchers impedes these families search for housing, prolonging the time they must spend in homeless shelters, on the streets or in substandard dwellings, the complaint says. This not only endangers and destabilizes families and children, but also restricts the opportunity for those families to live in their neighborhood of choice. Read more: Milton loses state grant after voting down zoning to increase housing production A 2020 study by Suffolk University and the Boston Foundation found that 86% of voucher holders experienced housing discrimination, and were only allowed to tour potential units 12% of the time. Thats compared to 80% for non-voucher holders. Housing voucher discrimination disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic families, reinforcing racially segregated housing patterns, according to the complaint. A 2016 Boston Housing Authority study found that 76% of voucher holders in the Boston area lived in lower-opportunity neighborhoods. Black and Hispanic families in Greater Boston are already concentrated in poorer neighborhoods with fewer public resources than similarly situated white families, the complaint says. Widespread voucher discrimination perpetuates this segregation, and the accompanying disparity in opportunity for Black and Hispanic communities, by further limiting the housing options available to voucher holders outside poorer neighborhoods. In addition, because voucher programs typically have a 120-day time limit for holders to secure housing, the discrimination which makes it more difficult to find a home can lead to vouchers expiring before they can be used. The brokers named in the lawsuit are Charlesgate Realty Group, LLC; Harvard Ave. Realty Inc.; Anzalone Realty; East Coast Realty; New Wave Boston Real Estate, LLC; LAER Realty Partners; Concept Property Group, LLC; Zeus Living, Inc.; and Sandra Suarez. The landlords are Zee 219 Commonwealth, LLC; Evelyn Saleh; Filippo Frattaroli; One Forty Five Princeton, LLC; 15-19 Queensberry Street, LLC; Carl Cincotti Sr.; Michelina Cincotti; Bobson Residential, LLC; Hamilton Battle Green LLC; Ladd Martin Jr.; and Russell Peterson. None of the defendants could immediately be reached for comment Wednesday. This lawsuit aims not just to hold twenty defendants accountable for their deplorable conduct, but to serve as a warning to all local housing providers that voucher discrimination is illegal and will not be tolerated, said Jacob Love, staff attorney at Lawyers for Civil Rights, which is representing HRI in the case. The message here is clear: stop discriminating against low-income families and children. Nevada legislators are expressing frustration over the states inability to track people who were wrongfully disenrolled from Medicaid last year. People are transient, and they list an address but its not exactly where they live, and we as government officials will send out government notices saying hey you need to fill out this form but they might not even receive it, state Sen. Fabian Donate, chair of the Interim Committee on Health and Human Services, during a meeting last week. Nevada had one of the nations highest Medicaid disenrollment rates due to procedural causes like missing paperwork during the process of unwinding a federal policy designed to keep people covered under Medicaid during the pandemic. As a result, 114,000 Nevadans lost their health care coverage, only to have it reinstated months after the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) intervention. Lawmakers on the interim committee sought explanations from the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) about how the state tracks people who may still qualify for Medicaid, but who havent been re-enrolled. Vulnerable populations who are often eligible for Medicaid may be experiencing homelessness, facing language barriers, lacking access to transportation, or dealing with other conditions that prevent them from filling out the re-enrollment packet mailed to them, returning it, or even receiving it in the first place, said Republican state Sen. Robin Titus. Ive been at this in the past and just the accessibility of getting those applications returned. A lot of folks on Medicaid may not have a home, may not be able to get to the post office, and may not be able to return those, Titus said. Despite the ongoing concerns that procedural terminations still disproportionately impact marginalized and at-risk populations that have plagued the unwinding process, there is no data on whats happening to those who have to fill out the packets but dont. Are there metrics that our state has gathered post unwinding to make sure that those folks [arent disenrolled] as a mistake? asked Donate, who chairs the committee. We are not currently gathering or surveying members as to why theyre falling off the rolls, said Sandie Ruybalid, deputy administrator of the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Division of Health Care Financing and Policy. Some states are doing that, but we dont have the resources at this time to perform that kind of outreach, Ruybalid said. At the start of the unwinding process, 80% of Nevadans enrolled in Medicaid were disenrolled from Medicaid because of procedural causes, one of the highest in the nation. Most of them were renewed automatically through a new system. About 12% of those have been terminated, said Kelly Cantrelle, the deputy administrator for DWSS, at the meeting. State date indicates in the last 12 months, 22,914 Nevadans have been disenrolled from Medicaid and not reinstated. CMS paused disenrollment for procedural causes after it found that Nevada and most other states had state systems issue that led to inappropriately disenrolling children and other enrollees, even when the state had information indicating the person remained eligible. Older adults, people who have moved, immigrants, people with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency are at an increased risk of losing Medicaid coverage or experiencing a gap in coverage due to barriers to completing the enrollment process, according to a KFF brief. Procedural disenrollments resumed in January, and Nevadas unwinding process is estimated to end in September, Cantrelle told the committee. Editors note: This story contains a description of the abuse and death of a child and could be disturbing to some readers. Adam Montgomerys lawyers gave their closing arguments on Wednesday to label his wife and a key witness a liar, while not absolving him of his charges and alleged crimes. The New Hampshire man, 34, has been charged with second-degree murder, second-degree assault, witness tampering, falsifying physical evidence and abuse of a corpse. He is accused of beating and killing his daughter, Harmony, on Dec. 7, 2019, while the family was living in their Chrysler Sebring. Harmony had several bathroom accidents in the car and Adam Montgomery yelled and hit her in the head, according to prosecutors. Adam Montgomery said at the trials onset that he admitted to two of the lesser charges in the case: falsifying physical evidence and abuse of a corpse. He has not been seen in the proceedings since appearing virtually on the second day of the trial on Feb. 7. He is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence after an unrelated gun conviction. Closing arguments were delivered at Hillsborough County Superior Court in Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday. It was a lie Wake up baby girl, wake up, defense lawyer Caroline Smith said at the start of her closing arguments. ...Kayla used words that were the truth, sometimes, to fill in her lies. Baby girl, wake up! Those words were from a real memory of how Adam was speaking when he discovered his daughter, looking peacefully asleep, would never wake up again. Wake up, baby girl. But she didnt. Montgomerys own defense lawyer said her client is not completely innocent, but denied he was responsible for Harmonys death. Shortly after he discovered that his baby girl would not wake up again, he began a series of decisions, terrible and criminal decisions, Smith said. He made them with the very misguided belief that he had to make them to keep his family from being ripped apart. He made those decisions with the input and influence of his wife, Kayla ... He and Kayla hid, moved, lied and manipulated Harmonys body after her death. Its unforgivable. Adam Montgomery did not commit his actions because he killed Harmony, rather so he could keep his family together, Smith said. The defense attorney slammed Kayla Montgomery for not attempting to stop her husband from hitting Harmony at any previous time. She reiterated Kayla Montgomerys testimony about her husband giving her a look and being scared. Rather than call for help or attempt to resuscitate Harmony, Smith said Kayla Montgomery flagged down oncoming cars after their Chrysler Sebrings car battery died at a traffic stop in Manchester. Kayla appeared to put Harmonys death behind her, Smith said. She just wanted her man. Kayla held him together, but he lost it several more times. He would have bouts of paranoia. Think Kayla was trying to poison him. Thought there were cameras. Thought she was cheating. Punched her a couple of times. Smith lambasted Kayla Montgomery for not being an independent woman. She went on to reflect on testimony offered by Tarah Hilbert and Rebecca Maines about his abuse toward Kayla Montgomery and the fleeting moments where he spoke of Harmony and claimed she was away with her biological mother in Massachusetts. She was not haunted by those memories because those memories dont exist, Smith said of Kayla Montgomery. It was a lie. Those images do not exist in reality ... They were partners in this conspiracy. Smith continued to reflect on Kayla Montgomerys testimony, including the claim that Adam Montgomery threatened his wife and said he would send his uncle Kevin Montgomery after her and have him kill me and cut me in pieces and nobody would be able to find me, Kayla Montgomery said on Feb. 9. Following Kevin Montgomerys testimony, Smith said there was no way he would have followed through with that and concluded this was another lie. Other parts of Kayla Montgomerys testimony were picked apart by Smith, who claimed they were all lies. This included Kayla Montgomerys remarks about her husband wanting to use a saw or power tool to dismember Harmonys body and Adam Montgomerys remarks about hitting Harmony I think I really hurt her this time, Smith said while entering a Burger King parking lot and the two young boys sleeping in the backseat while Harmony was being struck. Smith accused Anthony Bodero, a friend of Adam Montgomerys who allowed the family to stay in his apartment complexs parking lot around the time Harmony died, of lying too. Smith claimed Bodero had been convicted in November 2019 and did not have a license. Kayla Montgomerys testimony supports the idea that Adam Montgomery drove Bodero, Smith said, leaving his wife with the children. It was during one of these moments while he was away with Bodero that Harmony died, Smith said. Smith continued by telling jurors that it is right to feel anger about the circumstances around Harmonys death, and that it should never have happened, but the attorney sought to shift the blame for the childs killing away from Adam Montgomery. Adam and Kayla should have prevented that from happening but they covered up [Harmonys] death, the attorney said. Kayla is lying and she made a few things up in front of you. She lied because she had something to hide still. Adam did some bad things, but he did not kill his daughter. At the worst part of the case, as Smith described, she said all the information is before the jurors and she cannot provide a riposte to the prosecutors closing arguments. She then continued to criticize the testimonies of Nicole Giles and Maines, before suggesting everyone was impacted by Harmonys story in the media and contacted law enforcement to make up stories to help their friend, Kayla. Its pretty clear there have been emotional reactions, Smith said, referring to the jurors while she spoke to them. Were not talking crazy stuff, were talking about trusting Kayla ... This verdict could be easy and it could be quick if you rely on emotion, if you rely on anger, if you rely on horror. What Adam did what he did do to Harmonys body after she died is horrific. What he did do by allowing that entire investigation to go forward for so long and make you very, very angry. If you decide this case on your emotions, it can be a quick verdict because none of those emotions will be positive. By 11:15 a.m., Smith yielded and Superior Court Judge Amy Messer allowed for a quick break before prosecutors deliver their closing arguments and proceeding to final instructions for the jury. Editors note: This story contains a description of the abuse and death of a child and could be disturbing to some readers. During weeks of testimony, prosecutor Benjamin Agati has been soft-spoken and formal when asking witnesses questions during Adam Montgomerys murder trial in connection with the death of his daughter Harmony. But on Wednesday, as Agati gave his closing arguments, he aggressively told jurors that all evidence points to what the state of New Hampshire is prosecuting: that Adam Montgomery beat his 5-year-old daughter to death in December 2019. The New Hampshire man, 33, has been charged with second-degree murder, second-degree assault, witness tampering, falsifying physical evidence and abuse of a corpse. He is accused of beating and killing his daughter, Harmony, on Dec. 7, 2019, while the family was living in their Chrysler Sebring. Harmony had several bathroom accidents in the car and Adam Montgomery yelled and hit her in the head, according to prosecutors. Adam Montgomery said on Feb. 7 that he admitted to two of the lesser charges in the case: falsifying physical evidence and abuse of a corpse. Montgomery was not in the courtroom Wednesday, nor has he been since appearing virtually on Feb. 7. Closing arguments were delivered at Hillsborough County Superior Court in Manchester, N.H., on Wednesday. Lawyer Caroline Smith gave the defenses closing arguments first, telling jurors that her client is not completely innocent, but denied he was responsible for Harmonys death. Smith placed the blame on Kayla for not calling for help after the couple found Harmony motionless in the backseat of their Chrysler Sebring on Dec. 7, 2019. Smith used most of her closing arguments to claim that much of the witness testimony, predominantly the two-day testimony from Kayla Montgomery, Adam Montgomerys wife, did not support the charges. Furthermore, Smith called much of Kayla Montgomerys testimony lies and reminded the jury that Harmonys stepmother perjured herself while investigators searched for Harmony. An enraged tyrant Prosecutor Benjamin Agati Smith in giving the jurors closing arguments. He started by quoting Adam Montgomery when he reportedly spoke with Travis Beach the night he took a U-Haul to whatever place [Harmonys body] is now, where he knows it is right now to this day. I f***ed up! I f***ed up! I f***ed up! Agati bellowed in the courtroom. ...Not she. Not we. Not Kayla. I f***ed up! Singular, personal, solo. Thats the defendants words ... Adam Montgomery was no loving caring parent, but an enraged tyrant who had no business being around young Harmony. Adam Montgomery has not admitted what he cant deny when it comes to the disappearance of Harmonys body, Agati said. The prosecutor showed a slideshow of all the actions he says support Adam Montgomerys charges, claiming theyve all been proven beyond a reasonable doubt and not by emotion, echoing defense lawyers request for jurors to not use emotion in deciding their verdict. Hes a murderer [whos] getting rid of evidence, Agati said. Thats what murderers do. They get rid of evidence that would show others what theyve done. They think, No body, no evidence, no conviction. They silence witnesses into staying silent or even perjuring themselves so that the witnesses dont tell others what the murderer did because murderers dont want to be held accountable for their actions ... They clean bathrooms with ammonia after they get rid of the evidence like this defendant did. They clean out the plumbing lines like this defendant wanted to do. They desecrate and hide the dead so that the body cannot tell the story of how they died to the living, Agati continued. Thats what murderers do. Thats what the defendant did because hes a murderer, too. Agati repeated remarks made by witnesses claiming Adam Montgomery hit Harmony and gave her a black eye in July 2019. The prosecutor emphasized Adam Montgomerys uncle, Kevin Montgomerys, testimony where they yelled about Harmonys black eye and Agati repeated how Kevin Montgomery described Adam Montgomerys admission: like a cocky son of a b****. Agati returned to the circumstances leading up to Harmonys death. He emphasized that Harmony was potty-trained but lost control due to being stuck in her fathers car for so long, according to testimony from Harmonys biological mother, Crystal Sorey, and foster mother, Michelle Rafferty. The family lived in the car after they were evicted from Kevin Montgomerys home in November 2019, the uncle said during his testimony on Feb. 8. All he has is his car, his rage and his fists, Agati said. ... What did the defendant say in that moment? Words matter. I think I hurt her this time. This time. This time, I think I hurt her. I think I did something. Why say this? Because he didnt do nothing, he did something. He took [Harmonys] life in rage over a bathroom accident. Agati criticized Smiths closing remarks that claimed Kayla Montgomery was a liar while asking jurors to believe certain points. Although Kayla Montgomery testified against her husband, Agati said she still did nothing to prevent Harmony from dying. But Kayla Montgomery not acting in the moment does not discredit her testimony, he continued. She actually tried to humanize this guy, Agati said. Remember her testimony? She cried and admitted she still cares about him. Her in prison, Harmony somewhere only he knows. And she still cares about him ... Kayla admitted to you that she did nothing. Kayla Montgomery is serving an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to perjury for lying during grand jury testimony about where she was when Harmony was last seen, the Associated Press reported. Its not the face of a person whos trying to make themselves out to be this saint and the defendant to be the devil, Agati continued. Thats certainly not a master criminal schemer trying to exonerate her own behavior as you just heard in closing arguments. Agati recounted each of the several witnesses testimonies and how each one from what friends saw to what investigators found supports Adam Montgomerys guilt and the evidence presented in court corroborates the witnesses. The only part of Harmony we have left will be sitting in that deliberation room with you on that pink toothbrush, this part of the ceiling wall thats there, Agati said, his voice rising. And the other parts of her body the rest of her torso, her face, her eyes, that smile only the defendant, as we all sit and stand here today, knows where they are and he cant afford to admit to you that he knows where they are, because the evidence contained on them will show that he caused her death! So she wont get the burial that everyone deserves! She doesnt get a headstone in the ground above the head that he battered. She doesnt get to be at peace in death because of what he did, because he cant afford to tell anyone where she is. She doesnt get dignity, she doesnt get peace because this man ... says trying to find her is a waste of time. That trying to find her is a waste of taxpayer money. Thats what he thinks of her. Adam Montgomery looked at his daughter as a nuisance, who was an inconvenience, Agati said. The man hit and he hit and he hit this thing to teach it a lesson until he said to Kayla, I think I did something this time. He might as well have said I think I broke it ... He may have genetically donated half of his DNA to her, but he was not her father. On this point, Agati recalled testimony about Adam Montgomerys workplace, Portland Pie. He would take the bag carrying Harmonys body and shelved [it] in a walk-in cooler, Agati said. [Witness] Cameron Gibney told you she was down next to the mustard, Agati muttered to the jurors. At the end of his closing arguments, Agati repeated that Kayla Montgomery did not lie about who hit Harmony and what happened to her body. He said outright that Adam Montgomery was guilty of all of his charges. Look at the facts and call him a killer, Agati said, again echoing Smiths closing arguments. Put emotion aside, look at the facts, and then you can call him a tyrant and you can call him rageful. Those descriptions, descriptions suggested to you maybe, evil. But dont call him a father. Superior Court Judge Amy Messer then gave final instructions to the jury before sending them off to deliberate. Nicole Young, a 34-year-old Connecticut woman, was struck and killed by a car in Sutton, Mass., Saturday evening. Her family and friends are remembering her for her faith, her passion for language and the love she had for her family. Young was born in Southbridge, Mass. a town just east of I-84 on the Connecticut border, according to her obituary. She lived most of her life in Thompson, Conn., which is located in the northeastern-most corner of the state, bordering both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Over the course of her life, Young was employed as a Staples warehouse worker, according to her obituary. She also gave birth to two daughters, Madison Miller and Haylee Young. She was an avid writer and enjoyed reading, quality time with family and her faith, Youngs obituary reads. Youngs family will not be holding visiting hours, according to her obituary. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that people honor Youngs memory by donating to Janas Place a Worcester recovery home for current and former sex workers dealing with substance abuse or mental health issues. A donation to the organization can be made online. Read more: Pedestrian killed in car crash on highway in Sutton Young was killed in a car crash on Route 146 near exit 13 on Feb. 17, Massachusetts State Police said previously. Authorities responded to the crash around 6:35 p.m. and rushed her to a hospital, but she was soon declared dead. It is unclear if the driver stayed at the scene. But no charges have been announced in connection with the crash. A GoFundMe campaign has been created to benefit the family of 53-year-old Haverhill resident John Lawler, whose skeletal remains were discovered by a dog walker in a wooded area of Saugus on Sunday. Lawler was reported missing in July 2023 and was last seen in Saugus. Joshua Deveau, Lawlers oldest son, wrote on the GoFundMe campaign page that he spent a lot of time searching for his father in the woods in Saugus during the seven months he was missing. He believes he may have even walked past his fathers remains several times. I still cant believe I didnt find him. But to be honest, I know my father, and he wouldnt want me to find him that way, so he didnt let me find him at least, he wrote. The family wasnt ready for this, Deveau wrote, explaining that money donated to the campaign would help pay for his fathers funeral. By Wednesday afternoon, the campaign had raised just over $5,000, amounting to about half its goal. Lawler was a lifelong Haverhill resident and an avid fisherman, according to his son, Sean Lawler, who previously spoke to Boston.com. When he went missing, he was a father of four and a grandfather of five. The Chief Medical Examiners Office is still in the process of determining John Lawlers manner and cause of death, according to the Essex County District Attorneys Office. It is unclear whether his death is considered suspicious. At the time Lawler went missing, he was staying at a rehab center in Saugus, Sean Lawler told Boston.com. He is thought to have left the rehab center to go fishing, as took his fishing pole and debit card with him but left most of his belongings where he was staying. The last purchase recorded on Lawlers debit card was at a Burger King on Broadway in Saugus over two miles from where his body was found on David Drive. In September 2023, Sean Lawler told Boston.com that he believed his father had likely gone missing after becoming injured while fishing, as his father had become injured while fishing in the past. It was possible that Lawler had been attacked, his son said. But Sean Lawler felt certain his father hadnt disappeared intentionally. A Middlesex Superior Court judge has issued his final ruling on the Newton teachers unions illegal 11-day strike from earlier this year, dismissing a legal motion brought against the Newton Teachers Association (NTA) by Newton parents and agreeing to split the fines against the union between Newton Public Schools and the state. The strike, which ended Feb. 2, came after over a year of failed negotiations over a new contract for Newtons educators. The parties fought over issues such as cost of living adjustments and increased pay for educational support staff, and distrust hampered the negotiations. The motion by Newton parents The motion to intervene, which was filed on Friday on behalf of three Newton families, sought to recover damages for harm done to the families during the educators work stoppage over prolonged and failed contract negotiations. On Tuesday, Judge Christopher Barry-Smith closed the case against the NTA and denied the motion as moot. Following the judges decision, the parents involved in the motion responded by filing a class action lawsuit against the union as a separate case, according to NBC 10 Boston. The parents and their lawyers believe estimated damages to Newton students and parents as a class easily exceed $25 million, according to a statement to news outlets. The fines against the NTA do not begin to address the tremendous damage this illegal strike did to Newton as a community, and especially to our children, the statement reads. The lawyer leading the litigation The legal effort is headed by Wisconsin lawyer Daniel Suhr, who the NTA characterized as a conservative political activist that has been active in other right-wing attacks on organized labor in a Tuesday press release. The union pointed to a similar lawsuit led by Suhr against the Chicago teachers union for their 2022 strike, but the lawyers conservative bona fides also include a lawsuit against the Wisconsin Bar Association over a diversity clerkship program and work as a policy director for former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, according to The Federalist Society. The national movement aimed at weakening educator unions and other public-sector unions is not welcome here, as it undermines advocacy for the public good, the NTA said in a statement. Split fines On Tuesday, Barry-Smith also agreed to divide the $625,000 the union owes in fines between Newton Public Schools and the state. As was stipulated in their return-to-work agreement, the union will pay $275,000 to the school district as compensatory fines and $350,000 to the state as coercive fines. We are at an important point now to move forward with implementing the terms of our new contract, which allows us to better meet the needs of our students, the union said in a statement. While the NTAs strike is reported to be the longest strike to occur in Massachusetts since the 1990s, it is not an anomaly. In recent years, teachers unions in Andover, Malden, Brookline, Woburn and Haverhill in similar collective bargaining ruts have organized strikes and faced fines due to public employee strikes being illegal in Massachusetts. Even so, the fines against the NTA are over four times the highest dollar amount leveled against any of the other unions, according to The Boston Globe. The fines amount to more money than the union is purported to have on hand, but significantly less than its total assets. Making up lost school days Right now, Newtons schools are holding regular classes to make up for days lost to the strike while most Massachusetts students are enjoying their February vacation. The 21-school, 11,700-student district will likely also have to take away days from its April and/or summer vacations to recover the missed days, as they must do so by June 30 or request a waiver to extend the school year from the state education department. Read more: How Newton Public Schools plans to make up school days lost to the strike Its unclear how effective the make-up days will be, given that 31% of Newton students were absent on Tuesday, according to NBC 10 Boston. Additionally, school administrators have said that students will not be penalized for missing make-up days. Even so, it is possible that other learning recovery days will be different, as families will likely be notified of the cancelled school vacation days further in advance than they were with February vacation. The Newton School Committee voted to suspend the vacation a little over two weeks before it was set to begin. MassLive recently asked readers to identify people who are leaders from the LGBTQ+ community throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts. Profiles of these leaders will be published through the rest of February. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change. Modesto Montero is an emerging LGBTQ leader in the state of Massachusetts.Modesto Montero Modesto Montero Age: 35 Community: Springfield His story: Modesto Montero is the founder and executive director of Libertas Academy Charter School in Springfield. The school is a college preparatory charter school committed to providing students with an excellent education. To help education be the remedy for reducing poverty, Montero has dedicated his professional career to the pursuit of educational equity, particularly to communities marginalized and under-resourced. I fundamentally believe that by improving educational outcomes, we will take significant steps towards creating a more fair and equal society. So, the work we do at Libertas comes from that deeply held belief, he said. Montero was born in the Dominican Republic to a poor but proud family that preached the importance of obtaining a good education. He moved to the United States when he was in middle school, and said he was fortunate enough to live in a school district with great schools. He continued his own education through high school and eventually enrolled at UMass Amherst. His journey educational journey throughout his time in the United States, he credits to the encouragement of incredible educators on his side. It was during his time at UMass that Montero took perspective of how lucky he felt to have attended the schools he did. During his college years, he had an opportunity to work with students in Springfield and Holyoke, which introduced him to the education inequity. He dug deep right away, taking his educational experience and the work he was involved in, and hoping to make a real difference in his own community. He started off after college teaching in Memphis, Tennessee, through Teach for America, which eventually led to starting his own school in Springfield. Although the work is incredibly hard, Ive loved the journey and am grateful for the folks I get to do this work with, he said. In his words: Our kids need people who look like them and share their most salient identity markers at all levels of the K-12 education ecosystem. Diversifying the teaching workforce is a priority for most school systems; thus, there are many ways to break into the field. If you want to be a teacher, there are alternative certification pathways like Teach for America, Teach Western Mass, or Elms Center for Equity in Urban Education. Were always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If youd like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form. As temperatures plunged on Mount Washington and ferocious winds made it near impossible to see, hiker Cole Matthes began to drift away from the trail. Then he hit a patch of snow-covered ice and slid hundreds of feet down a ravine. His fall Saturday sparked a rescue mission that would last 11 hours, utilize the mountains famed Cog Railway and prompt harsh criticism from rescuers, who said the hiker made numerous poor decisions in preparing for the hike and then deciding to push on. Both Matthes and the rescuers agree that without help, he would have died within hours. I am extremely grateful to all 11 of the men who saved my life Saturday and am also extremely sorry that they had to risk their lives to save me, Matthes told The Associated Press. I certainly made poor decisions and was underprepared for this hike. Matthes, a 22-year-old engineer from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, said in an online interview that he has plenty of hiking experience but not during harsh winter conditions. He set off in spiked snowshoes planning to complete the challenging 9-mile Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail loop, which has an elevation gain of 4,200 feet. New Hampshire Fish and Game said that as conditions worsened, Matthes ignored advice from other hikers to turn back. While I did see a group of hikers turn around at the Lake of the Clouds Hut, I decided to continue with other hikers, Matthes said. I was not hiking alone at that point and the weather conditions had not reached their peak. Once above the tree line, Matthes said, he swapped his snowshoes for boots with micro spikes because the snow wasnt deep and it was easier to navigate the rocks and ridges. But then he lost visibility. He slid down the ravine a little before noon, banging himself up and twisting his ankle. He called 911. In this image provided New Hampshire Fish and Game, New Hampshire Fish and Game conservation officer Brad Jones prepares to set out on a rescue mission at the Cog Railway base station, Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, in Mount Washington, N.H. A team of rescuers used the Cog Railway to shave off time but it still took more than 10 hours to save a hiker in conditions that included sustained winds topping 90 mph (145 kph) on New Hampshire's Mount Washington, officials said. (Sgt. Glen Lucas/New Hampshire Fish and Game via AP)AP Ryan Presby, who manages the Mount Washington Cog Railway, said he took the train up three times with rescue crews. As winds hit 90 miles per hour and temperatures plunged, he worried the trains diesel fuel would gel and the engine seize. He told rescuers to jump out as quickly as possible when they reached their destination. Levi Frye, a conservation officer with Fish and Game, was one of the first group of three rescuers to jump off the train. He said it was immediately clear they needed crampons for the ice and fierce wind. We were fighting it the whole time. It was certainly capable of knocking you off your feet, especially with a heavy pack on, Frye said. The visibility was so bad on account of all the snow getting blown around. The trail was marked with rock cairns, Frye said. Because the visibility was so poor, they used a system called leapfrogging. One person would stay at the first cairn while another would try to locate the next cairn. The third person stood in the middle to keep contact with both. Staying safe meant finding a balance between not getting too cold and not sweating too much, because it was even more dangerous to have sweat freeze, Frye said. After several hours in the ravine, Matthes said, there was a lull in the wind, and he spotted the Lake of the Clouds Hut in the distance. Although sore, his legs and ankle could take his weight. He was able to climb back up the ridge and make it to the closed hut, taking shelter underneath in an emergency spot rescuers call the cave. He called 911 again to update his location. In this image provided by New Hampshire Fish and Game, snow covers the rails on the train tracks leading to the summit Mount Washington above the Cog Railway base station, Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, in Mount Washington, N.H. (Conservation Officer Brad Jones/New Hampshire Fish and Game via AP)AP Huddling together to block the wind, Frye and his companions got the message. By the time they reached Matthes a little after 6 p.m., it was already dark. I was extremely relieved once the first team of rescuers arrived, Matthes said. Even with my shelter, I wouldnt have lasted through the night in my condition. Matthess boots were frozen solid, Frye said. The top priority was to strip him of his wet gear and get him into dry clothes. They gave him warm water and electrolytes and strapped his ankle as more rescuers arrived. By about 9:30 p.m., they felt he was stable and ready to leave. He was very willing to try to hike out, Frye said. We ended up having him connected to another rescuer who had a harness on him. The first few hundred yards were rough, Frye said. But once they got below the tree line, they got more protection from the wind. They got back to base a little before 11 p.m. After being treated, Matthes said he declined the advice from rescuers to take an ambulance to the hospital because he thought it would be expensive. He drove himself there instead. Im currently recovering from some frostbite on my toes, Matthes said. New Hampshire Fish and Game said Matthes didnt have proper gear or equipment, didnt plan for the weather or make good decisions. In the past, the agency has sought to recover rescue costs from some hikers they consider negligent. The agency said it hasnt yet made a decision on the Matthes rescue. Matthes said he was aware of the possible financial implications when he first called 911. But I knew that if I hadnt called for help, I wouldnt have made it down, Matthes said. At the end of the day, Im alive, and thats all that I could ask for. Instead of enjoying February break, Newton Public Schools students were supposed to be in school on Tuesday to make up for school days lost to the 11-day teachers strike last month. According to the school district, however, a large portion of them were absent. Overall, more than 31% of Newton students were absent on the districts first makeup day, according to a district spokesperson. The absences affected the districts middle schools the most, with an absentee rate of 36.5%. The elementary schools were the second-most affected, with a rate of over 31%, and the high schools were the least affected, with a rate of over 28%. Newton school administrators have previously expressed particular concern for how the school days lost to the strike would affect the districts high schoolers. This part of the school year is critical for test prep, and some upperclassmen are reporting their mid-year grades in their college applications, they said. Regardless, school administrators have also made it clear that students of all ages will not be penalized for missing strike make-up days. The decision to suspend February break was made a little more than two weeks before the vacation week was set to begin. At the time, Newton School Committee members said they felt it necessary to hold school during the break given that the strike was ongoing and had already cost the district nearly two weeks of school. As the school district cannot use federal or state holidays to make up the lost days, Newton students still got Presidents Day off on Monday, but they are supposed to be in school the rest of the week. This left seven more school days for the district to make up by June 30 to avoid having to ask the state education department for a waiver to extend the school year. The school committee left the difficult decision of how to recover the rest of the days to Superintendent Anna Nolin, who has decided to make up the rest of the days at the end of the school year. The school year is now set to end on June 26 for most students. The teachers strike began mid-January, following over a year of failed contract negotiations between the Newton teachers union and school officials. It ended Feb. 2 after bitter fights over issues such as cost of living adjustments were resolved, reportedly becoming the longest teacher strike in Massachusetts since the 1990s. Public employee strikes are illegal in Massachusetts, and given the length of the strike, a judge fined the Newton Teachers Association (NTA) $625,000 the most any union in the state has been fined for a strike in recent years. On Tuesday, the judge agreed to split the money between the state and Newton Public Schools as stipulated in the unions return-to-work agreement. The judge also denied legal efforts to get the NTA to pay damages to parents who say their children were harmed by the strike. Following the decision, the parents filed a separate class action lawsuit against the union in response. A man from Spencer was arrested in Sutton on Monday after police found drugs and a U.S. Army rocket launcher in his car, according to the Sutton Police Department. In the departments Facebook post sharing of the incident, it wrote, ... were going to put this post under the title, You found what!?!? and see what happens... Mmmmhmmm, you read that correctly....a ROCKET LAUNCHER! Sutton Police Det. Alex Sinni had been watching a suspicious vehicle in the side parking lot of the towns Red Roof Inn on Feb. 19, the department said. The officer went up to the vehicle and spoke with Harvey Johnson Jr., of Spencer, who was sitting in the drivers seat, police said. Sinni noticed some items in Johnsons car associated with illegal drugs, police said, and continued to search the vehicle. An M190 U.S. Army rocket launcher was then discovered inside the car, police said; pictures of the device showed it was to be placed on a shoulder. Sinni also found crack cocaine, the department said. After seizing the items, the police department contacted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and turned the launcher over to the agency on Tuesday. Johnson faces charges of possession of a Class B substance and possession or control of an incendiary device, the department said. UMass Memorial Health has become the first health care system to roll out the 24/7 video and audio translating app designed to help accessibility for patients who speak limited English, are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, called LanguageLine Solutions. Though not the first realized concept of a healthcare translation app, UMass particular app will be embedded directly into its healthcare providers Epic Electronic Health Record, or chart system, for ease of both patients and providers access, according to LanguageLine Solutions press release. With access to over 20,000 medical interpreters ready 24/7 for translation in over 240 languages, hopes are high for a streamlined process and enhanced care from both UMMH and the language service provider. The health care system had over 108 different languages spoken by patients in 2023, resulting in over 6 million minutes of appointment times used for translations. Read more: Milton loses state grant after voting down zoning to increase housing production The app works by having a healthcare provider request a translator through clicking a button in a patients chart portal, then choosing a language to connect with an interpreter within 15 seconds. Video- and audio-only formats are offered and no appointment is required. After a session is complete, LanguageLine will write back with such data aw the requested language and call duration. And the interpreter will identify clinic notes, flow sheets and other data storage locations in the cart system. The language service provider said this automates a process healthcare workers would have to do manually in the past. UMMH and LanguageLine Solutions worked closely to develop a flexible method for the integrated system, allowing UMMHs team to make changes to the system. LanguageLine CEO Scott Klein said the company also interviewed doctors, nurses and other clinical staff to better understand how they serve patients who have trouble communicating. We are pleased to offer this new resource to help create a better care experience for our patients, while improving efficiencies for our clinical teams, said Eric Alper, Chief Quality Officer and Chief Clinical Informatics Officer at UMMH. Advancements in this area support our mission to improve health equity through our technological capabilities and the care we provide to our communities, Alper said. President Vo Van Thuong and delegates offer incense to King An Duong Vuong (Photo: VNA) An Duong Vuong, succeeding the era of the nation founders Hung Kings, is credited with establishing Au Lac, an ancient state in Vietnam. His strategic vision and unwavering determination in national construction and defence led him to relocate the nation's centre from the northern mountainous region to the vast and fertile plains where he established the ancient capital, known today as Co Loa. Through extraordinary efforts, An Duong Vuong and the people of Au Lac completed the construction of the Co Loa Citadel, featuring a unique spiral three-tiered architectural design, within a remarkably short period. During the visit, President Thuong planted a tree at the site and toured community centres of residential groups in Dong Anh district and the local culture, information and sport centre. Earlier in the morning, the leader visited and presented gifts to Phuc Loc kindergarten in Uy No commune. Covering an area of over 8,000 sq.m, it is the first public kindergarten in Dong Anh district oriented toward a high-quality preschool model./. The Bay States two Democratic United States senators are pressing for a funding hike to a federal program they say will send badly needed aid to states and communities dealing with the crush of new arrivals that has strained budgets and filled shelters to capacity. U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey sent a letter to Senate budget-writers on Wednesday asking them to set aside $5 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agencys Shelter and Services program. Such an appropriation would meaningfully relieve the budgetary needs of state and local host communities, according to a statement exclusively obtained by MassLive. The program has become a critical lifeline for local communities hosting newly arriving migrants, the two lawmakers wrote in a letter to U.S. Sens. Patty Murray, D-Wash., and Susan Collins, R-Maine, who respectively serve as the chairperson and ranking Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee. The request comes as lawmakers on Capitol Hill scramble to meet the first of two government funding deadlines on March 1, according to Politico. The letter also comes just about two weeks after Republicans in the Senate, joined by a handful of Democrats, derailed a foreign aid and border security bill that would have provided states with a lifeline. Warren and Markey were among the Democratic no votes, MassLive previously reported. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, a fellow Democrat, repeatedly has called on Washington to step up to lend states a hand. Ahead of that derailed vote, a visibly angered Healey told reporters that its incredibly frustrating that we were that close to a deal that, by the way, was negotiated and developed by a Republican, a Democrat, and an independent. In their letter to Murray and Collins on Wednesday, the two Bay State lawmakers noted that vote, adding that the chamber also failed to advance an amendment that would have appropriated that same $5 billion for the FEMA program. It is critical that the upcoming appropriations bill include sufficient funding for SSP, they wrote. President [Joe] Biden requested $1.4 billion in SSP funds for [the 2024-25 fiscal year]. But as local officials and members of Congress have repeatedly noted, $1.4 billion is insufficient to meet the migrant shelter needs of border and interior communities. In Massachusetts, spending on the states strained emergency shelter system is expect to sail past $900 million a year for the next two years amid a time of flagging tax collections, MassLive previously reported. In the past two weeks, newly opened emergency shelters, including one in Bostons Roxbury neighborhood, already have been filled to capacity. Read the full text of the letter: That federal funding stream is particularly vital for Massachusetts, which is the only state in the country with a law that guarantees families a right to shelter, Warren and Markey wrote. Since August 2022, demand for shelters has ballooned, and Massachusetts has scrambled to find additional spaces to use as shelters, turning to motels, a military base, university dormitories, and other temporary locations, they continued. In November 2023, the state hit its shelter capacity limit of 7,500, and now maintains a rapidly growing waiting list of over 650 additional families who are eligible for shelter. Speaking to MassLive after an unrelated event on Wednesday, Healey said she had not seen the letter, but I can tell you that we need Congress to act, and ... we need help to address the issues that we did not create. Asked whether she believed the actions by Markey and Warren smoothed over their votes against the border bill, Healey told MassLive that she hopes their call for action will help states such as Massachusetts that are struggling to meet the rising cost of providing services. I hope it helps. As I say, we need support, she said. I have spoken out that I was in support of the [new border and aid bill] that was proposed last week. We need help from the federal government to address this issue here in Massachusetts and also in other states, Healey continued. I mean, this is an issue that many states are dealing with right now. And the blame is really with Republicans in Congress [who] killed a deal on immigration reform that could have fixed the border, adjusted asylum processes and provided needed funding to states like Massachusetts. As of Wednesday morning, 7,545 families were in Massachusetts emergency shelter system, state data showed, with nine new families enrolled within the last 24 hours. Massachusetts is committed to welcoming new arrivals and is striving to ensure that each family in the state lives with dignity and in safe, stable housing, Warren and Markey wrote. At the same time, meeting the needs of newly arriving migrants is a national responsibility, and the federal government must ramp up its assistance to state and local host communities. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden is expected to appear in Cambridge on Wednesday, where shell announce $100 million in federal funding for research and development into womens health, according to the White House and published reports. The funding is the first major deliverable of the White House Initiative on Womens Health Research, which was announced late last year. The money comes from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, or ARPA-H, which is under the federal Department of Health and Human Services, the Associated Press reported. In remarks as prepared for delivery that were shared with the Associated Press, Mrs. Biden will tell her audience that the administration plans to build a health care system that puts women and their lived experiences at its center, one where no woman or girl has to hear that its all in your head, or, its just stress; where women arent just an after-thought, but a first-thought; and where women dont just survive, they lead long, healthy, and happy lives. The White House launched the womens health initiative last year, with Jill Biden leading the effort with the White Houses Gender Policy Council. The panel was tasked with delivering concrete recommendations to advance womens health research during the first 45 days of its existence, as well as taking a targeted, high-impact approach to deliver those results, according to the White House. It was to do that by [engaging] the scientific, private sector, and philanthropic communities, according to the White House. Every woman I know has a story about leaving her doctors office with more questions than answers, Jill Biden said in a statement last year, according to Axios Boston, adding later that theres just not enough research yet on how to best manage and treat even common womens health conditions. Around a 100 supporters including lawyers, judges, and court staff packed into the State Houses largest hearing room Wednesday morning to support Appeals Court Judge Gabrielle Wolohojians nomination to sit on the states highest court. The Cambridge resident has distinguished herself as a fair-minded jurist, Gov. Maura Healey said as she introduced her second nominee to the Supreme Judicial Court. Time and again, Judge Wolohojian has proven herself to be a person of wisdom and integrity, deeply committed to both the rule of law and the strenghtening of our community, Healey told members of the Governors Council, which could vote on confirmation as soon as next week. The governor made little reference to her past relationship with Wolohojian, her domestic partner of several years with whom she shared a home in Charlestown. And Wolohojian did not address the personal connection in her introductory remarks as the hearing got underway. Healey said she knew from experience that Wolohojian is a remarkable jurist, uniquely talented, thoroughly prepared, generously willing to serve, and deeply committed to our judicial institutions. And I know that personally. As I have said in the past, a personal relationship -- and my personal relationship -- with Judge Wolohojian should not deprive the people of Massachusetts of an outstanding SJC justice, the governor said. Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, who co-chaired the hearing, referred to Wolohojians 16 years on the Appeals Court and called her one of our states most experienced appellate judges. Wolohojian said she paused Wednesday morning and was struck by the support of her colleagues. And I realized that their trust and support -- that if I were elevated, they would be happy to have me review their work -- struck me as the greatest trust and endorsement that I could receive. I will be forever grateful for that, Wolohojian told members of the Governors Council. Councilor Tara Jacobs sought to ask questions of Healey before the governor departed the auditorium. Councilors usually have an opportunity to ask followup questions after a witness speaks at a confirmation hearing. Not of the governor, no, Driscoll told Jacobs. But we do have witnesses that are coming. Vowing to wake the sleeping giant, a nationwide advocacy group said it plans to mobilize millions of poor and low-wage voters nationwide including Massachusetts ahead of this Novembers general election. The effort announced Tuesday by the Poor Peoples Campaign, aims to center a host of issues, including voting rights and efforts to secure a living wage as voters in all 50 states cast their ballots for president, the U.S. House and Senate, and a host of statewide and local contests. In Massachusetts, 2.4 million people, or 34% of the states total population of 6.9 million people, are classified as low-income or poor, according to the advocacy group. About 1.3 million of that cohort are eligible voters who account for 23% of the states total electorate, the group said. The groups plans call for organizing, registering and educating poor and low-wage, infrequent voters and turning them into a movement that votes over the next 40 weeks, the campaign said in an email. The group held a press conference at the State House in Boston on Tuesday. Poor and low-wage voters are coming together with religious leaders and moral advocates to say, our votes are demands. We are not voting for personality; our votes are for policy. If a candidate wants our votes, then they must talk to the very voters they have been leaving behind, the Rev. Dr. William Barber, the national co-chair of the Poor Peoples Campaign, and the co-chair of its voter mobilization effort, said in a statement. The campaign intends to [wake up] the sleeping giant of low-wage voters who have been ignored for far too long, Barber said. While high-earning Americans are more likely to vote in midterm and presidential elections, policies that made it easier to vote, such as mail-in balloting, boosted turnout among lower income Americans, according to the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, a nonprofit research and grant-making organization based in Washington D.C. Organizing low-wage voters holds great and largely unrecognized potential to shift electoral outcomes, Barber said, citing Poor Peoples Campaign election data. Low-income voters accounted for at least 20% of the voting electorate in 45 states and that share grew to near or above 40% in battleground states. That included states that flipped in 2020 or that retained very small margins of victory, he continued. This goes squarely against the commonly held belief that poor and low-wage people are either apathetic about politics or marginal to election outcomes. With the Super-Tuesday primaries looming on March 5 including Massachusetts the Poor Peoples Campaign said it plans to hold a day of action at state capitols across the country on March 2 to further ... highlight the policies being promulgated in state houses across the country that are hurting the poor, or distracting from addressing the real issues facing poor and low-wage people. We are taking back the mic, putting forward our demands, and calling our legislators to the task of building a third reconstruction, the groups Massachusetts spokesperson, Savina Martin, said. The question was a simple one: 30Somethings of [Boston] are you guys struggling to live life? The answers to the query posed on the r/Boston subReddit earlier this week by a user calling themselves Politician91, however, were anything but. In fact, the anger and frustration practically leaped off the page starting with Politician91 themselves. Talking with my girlfriend, we are at a tipping point stress-wise. No matter what we do, it seems like finances are getting impossible to deal with, they wrote. I am in a successful job making 6-figures, and we are talking about postponing having kids so that we can afford life. I know is it doesnt necessarily solve the problem, but are you all having the same feelings right now? It only boiled over from there. I mean it f**king sucks that my wife and I make the money we do and still cant afford to buy a house around here, a Reddit user named Pepper2525 wrote. Old s**tholes selling for a million f**king dollars. Doesnt help that daycare is the most expensive in the country. Its absolute insanity right now. Another, who called themselves Spok3nTruth, chimed in: [H]aving [my] first kid in [May] and man, seeing how wed have to add 2k+ to our budget monthly sucks, especially while trying to save for a downpayment. Honestly seeing how things go rest of the year. And if [its] rough, [Im] moving back home. Love MA but its too damn high of a cost, they wrote. And this, from a user named lil_jilm: We basically gave up on daycare and my husband stays home with the kid, they wrote. [A]ctually ended up being the most affordable option with tons of benefits and also sacrifices. Would be nice to make the decision out of best interests rather than necessity. You dont have to go far on Beacon Hill these days to run into someone who will tell you that the twin storms of affordability and supply thats driving Massachusetts housing crisis is the most urgent policy challenge facing state lawmakers and the Democratic Healey administration this year. I feel the pain that people who are trying to rent feel, that people who are trying to buy homes feel. And you know, this is why ... its a top priority for our administration, Healey told MassLive during an interview at her State House office last December. In a statement to MassLive, Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, offered a similar sentiment through a spokesperson, saying that solving our Commonwealths housing crisis is one of the most important issues our Commonwealth faces today and one that the Senate President is committed to addressing. This session, the Senate has passed, and [Healey] has signed, legislation expanding production of low-income housing and housing in Gateway communities, and reforming our laws to prevent unnecessary evictions, the statement continued. But five months after Healey rolled out a $4.12 billion housing bond bill that aims to create as many as 40,000 new homes, state lawmakers have held just one public hearing on the proposal. And on Tuesday, as business resumed at the State House during a holiday-shortened week, it was not immediately clear when the bill might get an actual vote. And if there was a sense of urgency, it was not in evidence Tuesday, with the State House largely empty and silent. In the statement to MassLive, Spilkas office said Healeys housing code proposal will continue to go through the legislative process, and we look forward to working with the administration to continue to address our housing challenges head on. In the one town where residents were given the choice of turning the tide, suburban Milton, voters soundly rejected a plan that would have increased the communitys supply of affordable, multifamily housing. And they did it knowing they could risk state funding as a consequence. By the numbers The debate here is far from merely intellectual. The numbers are vertigo-inducing. Massachusetts was the fifth-most expensive state for housing in the nation at the end of last year, according to Forbes. The median price for a home, statewide, was $550,000 in 2022, rising to $570,000 in 2023, according to WBZ-TV. In Greater Boston, the median price rose from $695,000 in 2022 to $715,000 in 2023, the station reported. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom condominium, at 1,328 square feet, in Salem, a 50-minute drive out of the capital city, recently was listed for $499,000. To afford it, someone would have to come up with a $99,980 down payment, face total costs of $119,976 at closing, and then pay $3,720 a month, assuming a 30-year fixed mortgage at a little over 7% interest. Even assuming two earners, with a median household income of $100,535, based on Census data, thats still an enormous ask. The threshold for someone earning far less, at the single earner median of $80,467, is even more daunting. And forget about the teachers, healthcare workers, and front-liner employees who are struggling from paycheck to paycheck. In a worksheet for new employees, Mass General Brigham, one of the regions biggest employers, didnt play around, warning on its website that Boston is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. An individual must have at least $31,500 a year to meet minimum income requirements. Be prepared to spend at least that much as a single person in the first year you live here. Then, the healthcare titan warns that employees should expect to annually spend $14,000 to $17,000 for housing; as much as $2,500 for utilities; up to $5,000 for food, and as much as $5,500 more a year for health care and health insurance. And that doesnt count the up to $3,500 for furniture and home items, and up to $3,000 for miscellaneous/transportation. The twin results of this crisis have been a staggering drop in single-family home sales, which dipped by 22.4% between 2022 and 2023, from 52,639 to 40,328, according to WBZ-TV; and a rush of people headed to other states. Nearly 111,000 people left the state between April 2020 and July 2022, according to an analysis by the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, NBC-10 in Boston reported. By years end, the Bay State ranked 7th nationwide for departures, with more people leaving the state than moving in, MassLive reported. In a statement accompanying the release of her housing proposal last fall, Healey vowed that, Together, were going to make our state a place where people can afford to move to and stay to build their future. Right now, as they run the numbers, young Massachusetts residents, the ones who are being asked to stay and build that future, arent buying it. Even with no kids its just too much cant afford to buy a house but cant afford to move because Id have to pay 3-4x the cost of rent, a user named ZertyPlerbus wrote. And if you do move further away from the city where its affordable. you have to sit in traffic for eternity just to get to work. Some days I just get overwhelmed by how expensive life is and Im barely having any fun. Healey speaks often of the importance of the people behind all the policy. Theyre more than making their voices heard. Now all that listening has to translate into action. A weekly newsletter that delivers original reporting and dives into the top headlines involving reproductive justice, sexual health, relationships, parenting and more every Tuesday. Enter your email to subscribe today. Originally published by The 19th Both were born decades before the Supreme Court guaranteed a right to abortion in the Roe v. Wade decision and lived to see it get overturned. One has ping-ponged around the issue, embracing every side of the abortion debate across his political career and taking credit for the overturn of Roe even as he publicly criticizes the stances of the anti-abortion movement. The other is a devout Roman Catholic whose position has evolved steadilyover his five decades in public office, from opposing most abortions and expressing discomfort with the issue, to now running on restoring the protections of Roe as he seeks a second term as president. Former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, poised for a rematch, have emerged as unlikely, sometimes uneasy, standard-bearers for their parties on the issue. Abortion has never been the most comfortable or natural topic for Biden, 81. But hes now placing abortion rights at the center of his campaign, even though his message of returning to Roe and his recent comments distancing himself from abortion on demand put him out of step with many of the advocates powering the movement. Abortion also hasnt been a leading cause for Trump, 77, a onetime New York liberal who described himself as very pro-choice, though uncomfortable with the concept of abortion, while first flirting with a presidential bid in the late 1990s. He championed anti-abortion causes during his first real presidential run in 2016 and followed through on his campaign promise to appoint justices to the U.S. Supreme Court who would end Roe. He has reportedly embraced a 16-week national ban and his reasoning for that specific cutoff illustrates his apathetic relationship with an issue held with fervor by many in his party: Trump favors that limit because its an even, round number, according to The New York Times. I dont know that theres any real fidelity to any stance on an issue unless its perceived to be useful abortion being one of a very long list, said Rosalyn Cooperman, who studies Republican candidates and political leaders at the University of Mary Washington. If you look at what he has said over time, it is what is politically expedient. While polls show that voters trust Biden more than Trump on abortion, recent polling from left-leaning firm Data for Progress indicates that Trump has also so far avoided taking heat for the widely unpopular abortion bans that have gone into effect in the states. Abortion is still going to be a big, huge issue, especially thinking about control of Congress. But Biden and Trump themselves are two very old men, said Danielle Deiseroth, Data for Progress executive director. And pinning the abortion debate between the two of them just feels a little bit more disconnected. The end of federal abortion rights and the immediate wave of restrictions across the country thrust the issue to the forefront for Democrats and their leader, Biden. Since the Supreme Courts decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, voters in several states have voted to enshrine abortion rights in their state constitutions and have elected Democrats in key races. Vice President Kamala Harris has taken the lead on the White Houses messaging on abortion and response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. She is, in many ways, a more natural spokesperson on the issue, having more closely aligned with the abortion rights movement throughout her political career. Now in full-on campaign mode, Bidens team is framing restoring nationwide abortion rights as a fundamental freedom, and directly tying Trump to what they describe as chaos and cruelty caused by abortion bans. Their ads and messaging highlight Trumps comments claiming credit for Dobbs and the stories of women forced to flee their states for care. President Biden speaks during an event on the campus of George Mason University to campaign for abortion rights, in January 2024, in Manassas, Virginia. (SUSAN WALSH/AP)Susan Walsh, AP Make no mistake: The person most responsible for taking away this freedom in America is Donald Trump, Biden said at a January campaign rally in Virginia focused on reproductive rights, adding: He described the decision as a miracle for American women its a nightmare. Trump has oscillated between claiming credit for the decision overturning Roe and criticizing its aftermath. He called it a terrible mistake that his former primary opponent, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, signed a six-week abortion ban into law and has publicly feuded with prominent anti-abortion groups. The New York Times reported on Friday that Trump, who has for months evaded endorsing a specific policy on a week limit for abortion, favors the idea of a 16-week national abortion ban with exceptions for rape, incest and threat to the life of the patient. The Times reported that Trump plans to wait until after hes secured the Republican primary nomination to announce his stance. Trump, who blames the abortion issue for Republicans losses in recent down-ballot elections, has also reportedly asked advisers if potential running mates are OK on abortion and views it necessary for contenders to support the three exceptions that is, in cases of rape, incest or threat to the life of the pregnant person. In a statement, Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, called The Times article fake news but did not dispute its facts. Leavitt said Trump would sit down with both sides and negotiate a deal that everyone will be happy with. While one prominent anti-abortion group, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, embraced the 16-week news, another activist criticized Trump for drawing a line that allows abortions in the early stages of pregnancy and turns away pro-lifers. He should pledge to sign any law that comes to his desk that stops abortion, 20 weeks, six weeks or at conception, said Kristan Hawkins, president of the group Students for Life, adding that Trump should also support adoption, foster care reform, and paid family leave [and] child tax credits. Leaders of both anti-abortion groups have signaled they are open to continuing to work with Trump on the issue, continuing the transactional relationship theyve had with him since his first campaign in 2016. Anti-abortion advocates and Trump allies are also drafting plans for how Trump could use the power of the federal government to restrict access to medication abortion, drawing alarm from abortion rights advocates. Trumps vacillating on abortion, while frustrating to some anti-abortion advocates, illustrates how hes become an avatar onto which Republican voters can impose their own beliefs, said Melissa Deckman, CEO of the nonprofit nonpartisan Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). His base is very animated by social issues, but theyre also extremely loyal to Donald Trump, Deckman said. And so theres a tendency of his voters to forgive almost anything that Donald Trump says and to project their own values onto Trumps candidacy. In early December, Data for Progress ran a survey that gave respondents multiple options for who they held responsible for new abortion bans. Just under a quarter of likely voters connected Trump to being responsible for new abortion bans, compared with half who identified the Supreme Court as responsible, and around a third who named Republicans in federal and state office. Trump has done a good job of distinguishing himself from the generic national congressional Republican brand, in part because he has muddied the waters so much, Deiseroth said. And I think thats a very unique Trump phenomenon. That could change if Trump does embrace a specific week ban. Democrats already have a blueprint to run against a candidate proposing a second-trimester abortion ban. In Virginias 2023 legislative elections, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin pitched a 15-week abortion ban as a compromise position if voters gave his party control of the legislature which voters resoundingly rejected. Democrats argue that the results in Virginia prove how voters dislike all government-imposed limits on abortion regardless of the week limit and how Democrats can win with disciplined messaging focused on freedom from politicians interference. Donald Trump arrives at his Caucus Night watch party, in January 2024 in Des Moines, Iowa. (JABIN BOTSFORD/THE WASHINGTON POST/GETTY IMAGES)Jabin Botsford, The Washington Post Glenn Youngkin claimed that he had found some sort of special sauce here that he had, that they could rebrand on this issue, Jessica Mackler, interim president of influential Democratic group Emilys List, said on a Friday call with reporters. And the fact is that this is not a branding problem; its their agenda. That is the problem, and voters know that. Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Bidens campaign manager, called the Virginia results a great illustration of how Biden and Harris can position themselves as fighting for key freedoms and against Trumps extremism. Hes been running ads and bragging about overturning Roe v Wade and taking credit for it, she said. This is not an issue that he has run away from whatsoever. Biden began his political career voting against public funding for abortionsand in favor of some anti-abortion proposals. As the Democratic Party moved beyond saying abortion should be safe, legal and rare, Bidens position and language also shifted. He reversed his stance on federal funding in his 2020 presidential run and is running on restoring the protections of Roe in his 2024 campaign. But Biden has rankled some in the reproductive rights movement with comments at recent campaign fundraisers citing his Catholic faith in stating hes not big on abortion and doesnt support abortion on demand, invoking language commonly used by abortion opponents. I think that hes struggling with it in real time, said Renee Bracey Sherman, founder and co-executive director of We Testify, an abortion rights organization focused on elevating abortion stories and storytellers. And there are a lot of people that may have that similar experience, right? But, they are not the president of the United States, she continued. They are not hinging their entire job on their view on abortion. And I think its really important that hes actually thoughtful about talking about abortion. Reproductive rights advocates are in unison that in any universe, reelecting Biden is essential to thwart Trump restricting abortion with or without a national ban even if many want to go further than the Biden campaigns message of Restore Roe. Bracey Sherman is among those deeply concerned about the consequences of a second Trump term. But she encouraged Biden to do the homework of meeting with those with personal abortion stories and get more comfortable with the issue so it will show up better in the way in which he talks about it. If you are the president of the United States, running on a pro-choice platform and staking your entire election on abortion, she said, it would behoove you to make sure that your language is in line with the movement whose coattails youre riding to try to win this election. Rafael Devers called out Red Sox ownership Tuesday when he met with reporters in Fort Myers, expressing his frustration for not improving Bostons roster over the offseason despite ample opportunities to do so. They need to make an adjustment to help us players be in a better position to win, Devers said through translator Carlos Villoria Benitez. Everybody in this organization wants to win. We, as players, want to win. I think they need to make adjustments to help us win. Im not saying the team is not OK right now but they need to be conscious of what the weaknesses are and what we need right now. Devers wasnt the only one to speak out. Dustin Pedroia FaceTimed president and CEO Sam Kennedy to remind him who remains on the free agent market. Jonathan Papelbon joined in on giving his two cents during his appearance on Foul Territory, and urged the team to listen to those around them and improve the team in 2024. BetMGM BET $5, GET $158! BONUS BETS CLAIM OFFER Promo code: MASS158 STATES: MA, KY, AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms and Conditions. 21 years of age or older to wager. MA Only. New Customer Offer. All promotions are subject to qualification and eligibility requirements. Rewards issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets. Bonus bets expire 7 days from issuance. In Partnership with MGM Springfield. Play it smart from the start with GameSense. GameSenseMA.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org. Everybody knows what theyre lacking. And at the end of the day, I feel like theres no secrets anymore here with this organization, Papelbon said. (Expletive), you got guys like Pedroia FaceTimeing with Sam Kennedy and asking, What the hell is going on? So now you got Devers saying something, so I feel like sometimes, man, when you have a front office that is trying to turn it around you sometimes gotta listen to the guy that is there that you sign for a long time (and) the guy that was there for 18 years. I really think that sometimes you need a kick in the ass, just to say, Hey, lets get this thing going. Pedroia was always outspoken during his time in Boston. But Devers has been a bit more reserved. But after Tom Werners full throttle comments and walking them back and the Red Sox expressing a desire to improve the starting rotation only to trade Chris Sale to the Atlanta Braves and sign Lucas Giolito, its easy to see why players are frustrated. Especially with Jordan Montgomery who lives and works out out in Boston still available, Papelbon said the Red Sox need to go out and sign him. To me, the biggest thing is you got to go get this Montgomery kid, Papelbon said on Foul Territory. ... I like him just because hes that guy that could go out there and give you 200 innings. In todays day and age, thats hard to do. Papelbon also admitted he had some good conversations with ownership during Red Sox Winter Weekend and hes of the belief their mindset is to make the perfect decision. You cant worry about that. You cant worry about making the perfect damn decision, he said. Youre gonna make mistakes but the thing is, you got to, in my opinion, you got to go after guys that you know are gonna step right into your clubhouse and make a difference. And they understood that. Whether the Red Sox add to their rotation before Opening Day remains unknown, but adding a name like Montgomery would certainly help bolster their rotation. The African Development Bank and the OCP Group signed three loan agreements in Rabat totalling $188 million to help fund the OCP Groups Green Investment Program supplying clean drinking water to the towns around three new desalinisation plants. The construction of the new modular seawater desalination plants will be funded by the first loan of $150 million from the African Development Bank and the second loan of $18 million from the Canada African Development Bank Climate Fund (CACF). Owned by the OCP Group, a global leader in soil fertility and plant nutrition solutions, the plants will have a total annual capacity of 110 million m3, and will provide an autonomous source of unconventional water to the OCP Groups industrial and mining sites. Up to 75 million m3 of drinking water will be provided for the towns of Safi and El Jadida and the areas around the OCP Groups Safi and Jorf plants, and over 1.5 million people will benefit. The third loan of $20 million from the Clean Technology Fund (CTF), will be used to fund storage systems for energy generated from renewable sources, supplying the desalination plants and other OCP Group production units. This funding is an example of the support that the African Development Bank, the CACF, and the CTF intend to contribute to combating climate change, both for adaptation and mitigation. It also aims to support the most vulnerable populations, among others, by supplying drinking water and creating jobs, including for young people and women, and in rural areas. Key components of the OCP Group Green Investment Program, the projects form part of the Moroccan governments Emergency Plan for Drinking Water Supply. Director of the Industrialization and Trade Development Department at the African Development Bank, Mr Ousmane Fall, and Mr Karim Lotfi Senhadj, Finance Director of the OCP Group signed the agreements. Canadian government representatives were also present at the signing, acknowledging the CACFs contribution and strengthening the shared commitment to combating climate change and womens empowerment. Moreover, the finalization of this transaction represents the first non-sovereign funding signed by the CACF. It consolidates the long-term partnership between the African Development Bank and the Kingdom of Morocco in its efforts to confront the challenges of climate change. We are proud to be associated with this ambitious project, which provides a strategic response to the increase in hydric stress in Morocco. The project will also help to optimize water-resource management in the OCP Groups industrial activities by using desalinated seawater, explained the African Development Banks Country Office manager for Morocco, Achraf Tarsim. We greatly appreciate these loans, which represent a significant contribution to our 2023-2027 investment program of $13 billion. Our sustainability objectives aim to achieve 100 percent unconventional water by 2024, 100 percent renewable energy by 2027, self-sufficiency in green ammonia by 2032, and full carbon neutrality by 2040, declared Karim Lotfi Senhadji, Finance Director of the OCP Group. We are pleased to see that this fund is being deployed effectively in Morocco to contribute to the response to climate challenges. We are delighted to be involved alongside our partners, the African Development Bank and the OCP Group, commented Jean Touchette, adviser and head of cooperation at the Canadian Embassy in Morocco. Over 180 operations in various sectors have been deployed by the African Development Bank in Morocco since 1978, totalling over EUR 12 billion. Locals in Drummin near Westport have complained about the length of time it is taking Eir to restore their landline following storms in recent weeks. The area has little to no mobile or broadband coverage, leaving residents entirely dependant on their landlines to communicate. SEVERAL households in a small West Mayo community remain without landline or mobile phone coverage following Storm Isha. Residents from the Drummin area have described the length it is taking Eir to restore their landline as disgraceful, with once local councillor accusing the company of providing a very poor service for the west of Ireland. Many households in the locality require landline phones to make phone calls as there is little to no mobile phone coverage in the area. The Mayo News understands that at least eight households are affected, including two elderly people. This includes one woman in her eighties whose daughter must visit her daily to communicate with her. The outage is believed to have been caused by a telephone poll which was toppled during Storm Isha between January 20-21. Mary Hastings, who previously contacted this newspaper regarding her lack of mobile or broadband coverage, has been without a landline since Christmas Eve. Locals have contacted Eir and IFA Telecom on numerous occasions to have the issue resolved. Ms Hastings contacted IFA Telecom who provide broadband and landline to IFA members on over 20 occasions and was told it was a matter for Eir to resolve. Workers have since visited the area and placed a yellow ribbon near where the poll was damaged. Ann Hastings, of Derrymore, Drummin, said she was told by Eirs customer service to hound the company to get the issue resolved. I have rang Eircom [Eir] on several occasions and they said the last time I was talking to customer service, he said we needed to hound them, Ms Hastings told The Mayo News. I didnt think youd have to hound to get a service that were paying for, paying on the double for, that half the time is gone. Theres a man out the road who home help has to come out to and he has no phone since the day of the snow. Theres a woman, and shes over 80, and her daughter has to come out to her every day because she cannot ring her on the phone, about 20 miles to her, and I had to drive three miles to get a signal to ring you. Its disgraceful. Ann Hastings had to travel three miles from her home to obtain a mobile signal to speak to Eir and The Mayo News. Criticising Eirs customer service, Ann Hastings said he was left waiting on the phone for over an hour to speak to an Eir representative. A notice telling her she would be waiting for approximately 18 minutes remained in place for roughly 40 minutes during one phone call. I said I hope yee compensate me for the petrol Ive used going to and from a signal to try and contact yee, she said. I got through to the customer service, she continued. Is it customer care? I said. He said Yes. I said but do yee care about yeer customers? Because if yee do I cant imagine yee having many customers. We have no mobile coverage. And there is people that had no one to talk to and its a mental health issue, to be left so long with no outside contact from anybody. There is one man who cant drive, people in need of medical attention. Its absolutely disgraceful, if the nurse is trying to ring them or anything, its way out of order. SEVERAL REPRESENTATIONS FIANNA Fail county councillor Brendan Mulroy, who has received several representations on this issue, said Eir were providing a very poor service for the west of Ireland. Minister of State, Dara Calleary TD, has also made representations to the company on the issue. Cllr Mulroy described ongoing repair works in the area as remarkably slow. Ive spent a lot of time on the phone to these guys and its an absolute disaster, Cllr Mulroy told The Mayo News. I must have nearly 20 to 25 if not 30 people reported to them, and Id say out of them 30 people Id say theres about seven or eight of them that have been repaired. Cllr Mulroy also echoed criticisms regarding Eirs quality of customer service. Cllr Brendan Mulroy (Pic: Michael McLaughlin) Eir appeared before Mayo County Council in 2021 to answer questions regarding its customer service. The company, formerly known as Eircom, has been called to appear before Mayo County Council by Ballinrobe-based Fianna Fail councillor Damien Ryan. Its disgraceful behaviour and particularly with elderly people who need phone lines and particularly for their panic button. With some people thats the only contact they have with the outside world is their telephone, particularly elderly, said Cllr Mulroy. In a statement to The Mayo News, Eir said: Storms Isha and Jocelyn have caused unprecedented damage to telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in Ireland's North West, with areas in Mayo experiencing the severest impact. Our teams are working tirelessly, seven days a week, to repair faults as swiftly as possible. Within the last month they have repaired 1,300 faults across Mayo. Additional engineers have been dispatched to accelerate recovery. For the area of Drummin there are 14 remaining faults, which are being treated as urgent, including the highlighted case. We apologise for any delays in restoring services to affected customers. NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue visits the Ministry of Public Health on February 20. (Photo: VNA) At a working session with the Ministry of Public Health on February 20 ahead of the 69th anniversary of the Vietnamese Doctors Day (February 27), the top legislator requested the sector to fully roll out the 12th Party Committees Resolution on enhancing peoples healthcare in the new situation so as to improve mental and physical wellbeing, stature, longevity, and life quality of the Vietnamese people. He highlighted the sector's important role in the control of the COVID-19 pandemic and the downgrade of the infectious disease to Group B that covers the ones spreading fast and causing death from Goup A that comprises particularly dangerous ones spreading very fast and on a large scale and have a high mortaility rate or unclear causes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said countries worldwide can learn from Vietnams pandemic prevention and control experience, and this is the biggest achievement that the sector has carved out so far, he added. He hailed the sectors efforts to overcome challenges, remove policy bottlenecks, and make bold steps in the completion of mechanisms, state management and implementation of professional missions, making contributions to the countrys success. Describing the medical profession as a special one, he stressed that human resources in the sector must be recruited meticulously and receive special training and remuneration. Since investing in healthcare is investing for development, he recommended the sector to focus more on the training work, helping doctors and other medical staff improve their political mettle, professional expertise and moral virtues to better serve the patients. NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue took the occasion to asks the sector to study suitable remuneration policies for the medical staff, and sketch out stable and long-term policies to attract high-quality human resources, along with bolstering technology transfer and innovation. He called on the sector to streamline its apparatus and step up administrative reform and digital transformation. Sixty-nine years ago on February 27, President Ho Chi Minh delivered a letter to a conference of medical workers, asking the sector to stay united, sincerely care for patients, and develop the countrys health sector. Since then, the date February 27 has become the sectors traditional day./. Vietnamese Consul General in Frankfurt Luu Xuan Dong (R) presents flowers to congratulate the founding congress of the association. (Photo: VNA) The association, gathered more than 300 Vietnamese people in the locality. At the founding congress, participants elected five people to the executive committee of the association. On the occasion, a Lunar New Year (Tet) celebration for the Vietnamese community was also held. Speaking at the congress, Vietnamese Consul General in Frankfurt Luu Xuan Dong extended New Year wishes to the Vietnamese community in the city and congratulated the association on its official inception, affirming that the establishment of an organization of Vietnamese is significant in maintaining the national culture and tradition and spreading the image of Vietnam to international friends. He pledged that the Vietnamese Consulate General in Frankfurt will always accompany with and support the association during its operation. Meanwhile, Mayor of Hamm Monika Simshauser said that the Vietnamese community is a special part of the city with 180,000 populations. He said he hopes that with the formation of the association, Vietnamese people will have more chances to integrate more deeply into and make more contributions to the city. On the occasion, Head of the Vietnam Airlines branch in Germany Cao Duc Chinh Mien presented a couple of round-trip air tickets to representatives of the newly-established association./. by Ray Schultz , February 20, 2024 Samantha Willis has been named editor in chief of the Virginia Mercury, an online news organization focusing on state government and policy. Willis succeeds Sarah Vogelsong, who is leaving the Mercury to explore other reporting opportunities, starting March 18. Samantha is a gifted journalist who understands the Mercurys mission of providing Virginians thoughtful, comprehensive and accessible information about how their state government works, Vogelsong says. She is widely respected, unflagging in her efforts to bring new perspectives to the publics attention and well-versed in Virginia history, politics and culture. Willis has served as the Mercurys deputy and commentary editor since January 2023. Prior to that, she served as a freelance writer. She helped launch VPM News weekly television news show Focal Point, and has also worked for WRIC ABC 8News and Richmond Magazine. Her reporting has appeared in Columbia Journalism Review, Glamour, Essence, Scalawag, Richmond Times-Dispatch and Richmond Free Press. The Mercury is part of States Newsroom, a national nonprofit supported by grants, donors and readers. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, February 21, 2024 Duet AI for Google Workspace became Gemini for Google Workspace on Wednesday, complete with an update that includes a personalized stand-alone experience when logged into Googles system. Gemini for Workspace is now available in two subscription plans. The Gemini Enterprise add-on, which replaces Duet AI for Workspace Enterprise, and the Gemini Business add-on for a lower price that provides access for a companys entire team or organization. Data privacy might become the most important part of this announcement. Google, with the two subscription services, has taken a stand on privacy. With the Gemini Business or the Gemini Enterprise plan, Google ensures conversations will not be used for advertising purposes, reviewed by human reviewers or used to train generative machine-learning technologies. The company made it clear in todays announcement that all of its commitments to data privacy, confidentiality, and security apply to Gemini for Workspace. advertisement advertisement On any given day, Google estimates, millions of small businesses use Google Workspace to connect, create, and collaborate. Aparna Pappu, general manager and vice president of Google Workspace, in a blog post explained how a marketing manager can use Gemini to help identify topics for an email marketing campaign by analyzing industry trends, product developments, and competitor messaging -- or how a business analyst trying to find growth for her companys division can use Gemini to identify trends and discover potential new applications for products. By chatting with Gemini, she can explore and validate promising opportunities, then package the findings into a business proposal for C-level executives. In a recent survey, 88% of small and medium-sized business customers expressed interest in working with generative AI to assist them with data analysis, task management, email drafting, customer support, and more. A Gemini Business add-on for existing Workspace subscription customers will give customers access to Gemini in their Workspace apps with the ability to chat with Gemini in the new standalone experience. Gemini Enterprise, formerly Duet AI for Workspace Enterprise, has the same capabilities, with access to Gemini for heavy users of generative AI. It also includes AI-powered meetings where Gemini can translate captions in more than 100 languages. Soon it will offer a note-taking feature. Google also is working to bring Gemini for Workspace to education, and plans to share additional information about it in the coming weeks. The announcement from Google come a day after leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives announced they will form a bipartisan task force to explore potential legislation to address concerns around artificial intelligence. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the task force would be charged with producing a comprehensive report to consider "guardrails" that could safeguard the nation against current and emerging threats. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, February 21, 2024 Nvidia will work with Nokia to develop artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in its mobile network. It plans to use AI and analytics in telecom to streamline services, including those for advertising. The Finnish company on Wednesday said that under the agreement it will use Nvidia processors with its software to develop cloud-network technology and explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can help change the industry. Tommi Uitto, president of Mobile Networks at Nokia, touted the "important collaboration" and called it an example of its anyRAN cloud services approach that helps to make Cloud run radio access (RAN) a commercial reality. As AI is poised to change the landscape of telecommunications infrastructure and services within the mobile operator sector, this collaboration aims to deliver incremental value to end users through the introduction of innovative telco AI services, Nokia said in a statement. advertisement advertisement Nokia will collaborate with Nvidia on Cloud RAN solutions that leverage the NVIDIA Grace CPU Superchip, a high-performance accelerator technology, as well as the Cloud RAN software. The company also will use Nvidia GPUs for AI applications and vRAN acceleration, paving the way for RAN that runs on AI. The collaboration is designed to help its customers get Cloud RAN services up and running much faster, removing complexity. Google Cloud in 2023 partnered with Nokia to support Cloud RAN to provide communications service providers (CSPs) with a flexible operating model that extends from the core of the network to the edge. Microsoft also had a partnership with Nokia in 2011, when the company built smartphones using the Windows operating system that featured the Bing search engine. In September 2013, Microsoft announced the acquisition of Nokia's devices and services businesses, and sold it in May 2016. A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) SINGAPORE, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. Two Chinese air-service companies, the Tibet Airlines and Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group, signed orders for 40 units of C919 and 16 units of ARJ21 aircraft at the airshow. The COMAC noted that they will carry out promotion activities at the airshow to enhance networks with clients and partners. Aerobatic teams from India, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, and an Airbus A350-1000 also contributed performances at the airshow. Singapore Air Force sent its F-15 fighter jet and Apache attack helicopter to perform aerobatics at the event. The airshow, attended by over 1,000 participating companies, is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. The Singapore Airshow has set up a country pavilion for 40 Chinese aerospace enterprises for the first time, according to the organizer. The Aerospace Times Feipeng Company from east China's Jiangsu Province brings their cargo delivery unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to the Singapore Airshow. "It is the first time for us to attend an airshow abroad. We hope to create more connections with overseas clients and provide them with new cargo delivery solutions featuring low cost and high efficiency," said Liu Zefeng, general manager of the UAV company. The airshow will last till Sunday. A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows an interior view of a Chinese passenger jet C919 at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows an interior view of a Chinese passenger jet C919 at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Helicopters of aerobatic team Sarang of Indian Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An Embraer E195-E2 passenger aircraft sits on the tarmac as part of the static display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Helicopters of aerobatic team Sarang of Indian Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows a scene during aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A visitor views the exhibits on display at the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An Airbus A350 passenger aircraft flies during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A F-15SG fighter aircraft of Republic of Singapore Air Force performs during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An aircraft of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force performs during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Editor: ZAD by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, February 21, 2024 Siding with Snap, a state court judge in Connecticut has thrown out a lawsuit brought on behalf of a teenage sex abuse victim who alleged that Snapchat's recommendation algorithm put her in contact with two abusers. In a ruling issued late last week, Superior Court Judge Barbara Bellis in Waterbury said Snap was protected by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act -- a 1996 law that immunizes interactive service providers from liability for activity by third parties. The court determines that the allegations of this case fall squarely within the ambit of the immunity afforded to 'an interactive computer service' that acts as a 'publisher or speaker' of information provided by another 'information content provider,' Bellis wrote, quoting from Section 230's language. The ruling is at odds with a decision issued last month by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Lawrence Riff, who said Section 230 didn't protect Snapchat from liability for allegedly connecting teens with drug dealers. advertisement advertisement The Connecticut ruling grows out of a lawsuit brought last year by family members of a teen identified only as C.O. who alleges she was sexually assaulted in 2019 and 2021 by separate Snapchat users who were recommended to her by the company's quick add feature. The complaint contained numerous claims, including that Snapchat's service is dangerously defective and that the company is negligent. (Snapchat, like other social media platforms, currently faces similar claims in a sprawling class-action lawsuit in federal court in California.) In September, Snapchat urged Bellis to dismiss the matter at an early stage for numerous reasons, including that other judges have said Section 230 protects social media companies from liability stemming from recommendations, and that the teen's injuries were caused by user-generated content. Courts have explicitly held that claims based on Snapchats 'QuickAdd' and similar recommendation features are barred by Section 230, lawyers for Snapchat wrote in September -- which was before Riff in Los Angeles issued a contrary ruling. Bellis acknowledged Riff's decided in the opinion, but noted that other courts -- including the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Connecticut -- had ruled differently. In 2019, the 2nd Circuit specifically rejected the theory that Meta Platforms' use of recommendation algorithms stripped the company of the protections of Section 230. In that matter, family members of people killed by terrorists in Israel sued Facebook for allegedly allowing its platform to be used to organize and recruit new members. The family members argued in their appeal that Facebook's algorithms helped introduce thousands of terrorists to one another, facilitating the development of global terror networks. The 2nd Circuit sided with Meta, writing that websites typically recommend third-party content to users -- if only by prominently featuring it on a homepage, or displaying English-language articles to users who speak English. The use of algorithms -- as opposed to human editors -- to make those recommendations doesn't make Facebook liable for the posts, the judges said in that case. Bellis said the reasoning in that 2019 decision was persuasive, adding the fact that an interactive computer service allegedly created user recommendation technologies and algorithms that operate to connect users together doesn't deprive of it Section 230 immunity. Trusted Source Variability and patterns in children's media use and links with language development Go to source Trusted Source Digital Media's Role in Toddler Language Growth Excessive toddler screen time harms language development, but educational content can mitigate effects. #screentime #toddlers #languagedevelopment #digitaltoxicity #caregivers #medindia Did You Know? The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry advises that children between the ages of 2 and 5 should restrict non-educational screen time to approximately one hour on weekdays and three hours on weekends. Toddlers' Language Skills Affected by Video Use Advertisement Advertisement Variability and patterns in children's media use and links with language development - (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apa.17100) Exposing toddlers to passive video content may have adverse effects on their language development. However, if caregivers divert them to educational videos or aim for social connections through video chats can mitigate the potential negative impact.These findings from a Southern Methodist University study by psychologist Sarah Kucker and colleagues was published in).Results show that children between the ages of 17 and 30 months spend an average of nearly two hours per day watching videos a 100 percent increase from prior estimates gathered before the COVID pandemic. The research reveals a negative association between high levels of digital media watching and childrens vocabulary development.. However, the negative impact on language skills was mitigated when videos were used for educational purposes or to foster social connections such as through video chats with family members.In those first couple years of life, language is one of the core components of development that we know media can impact, said Kucker, assistant professor of psychology in SMUs Dedman College of Humanities & Sciences. Theres less research focused on toddlers using digital media than older ages, which is why were trying to understand better how digital media affects this age group and what type of screen time is beneficial and what is not.The study involved 302 caregivers of children between 17 and 30 months. Caregivers answered questions about their child's words, sentences, and how much time they spend on different media activities each day. Those activities included video/TV, video games , video chat, and e-books, with caregivers explaining why they use each activity with their child. Print book reading was also compared.Researchers looked at the amount of media use and the reasons provided by caregivers for their childrens media use. These factors were then compared to the children's vocabulary and length using two or more words together (the mean length of utterance).Kucker suggests that caregivers need to consider what kind of videos their children are watching (whether for learning or fun) and how they interact with toddlers watching videos. She acknowledges that parents often use digital media to occupy children while they complete tasks. Kucker recommends caregivers consider how much digital media they allow young children and if they can interact with them while using it.The study's findings underscore theBy understanding the types of digital media children are exposed to and the reasons behind its usage, appropriate measures can be taken to ensure more healthy language development.Future research by Kucker and her colleagues will continue to explore the types of videos young children watch, how they use screens with others, and if young children watching digital media for two hours is the new normal and, if so, how that impacts language development.Source-Eurekalert Data from multiple travel platforms indicates that during this year's Spring Festival holiday, Chinese tourists' outbound travel has shown a significant acceleration in recovery, with booking volumes reaching a near four-year peak. Among the popular destinations, Middle Eastern countries have emerged as one of the new favorites for Chinese travelers. CAIRO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Mohamed Hassan has been bustling around different tourist attractions in Egypt these days. A continuous influx of Chinese tour groups has kept this Egyptian tour guide on his toes, and he has lost count of how many times he's visited the pyramids this month. "I never formally studied Chinese; I acquired it from interacting with Chinese tourists," said Hassan, who speaks fluent Mandarin with a bit of Beijing accent. "These days, my Chinese is progressing even more." Chinese tourists pose for a photo at Cairo International Airport in Cairo, Egypt, Feb. 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) During the Spring Festival holiday, similar sentiments were echoed by tour guides across various Middle Eastern countries. Whether it's at the pyramids in Egypt, in the ancient city of Jerash in Jordan, or in the streets of Iran, Chinese tourists posing for photos were a common sight. The allure of exotic tourist attractions, hospitable travel environments, and the deepening ties with China are casting Middle Eastern countries as increasingly favored destinations for Chinese travelers venturing abroad. INFLUX OF CHINESE TOURISTS It's half past midnight. A long queue had already formed, snaking its way to the boarding gate for Flight HU0471 (from Shenzhen to Cairo) at Bao'an International Airport in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. A flight attendant at the airport told Xinhua that with the onset of the Spring Festival holiday, flights to Cairo have been operating at near full capacity. Among those waiting in line is Zhang Fengxia from south China's Guangdong Province, who had signed up with her sister for a 10-day tour to Egypt. "I've been longing to visit Egypt for quite some time, eager to lay eyes on the Egyptian pyramids I've known in books since childhood and to gain a deeper understanding of Egyptian culture and civilization," she said. Chinese tourists visit the Giza Pyramids scenic spot in Giza, Egypt, Feb. 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) The heightened tensions in Gaza and the Red Sea have precipitated a significant decline in tourist arrivals to Middle Eastern nations. However, the influx of Chinese tourists has made their lackluster off-peak travel markets more vibrant. Data from multiple travel platforms indicates that during this year's Spring Festival holiday, Chinese tourists' outbound travel has shown a significant acceleration in recovery, with booking volumes reaching a near four-year peak. Among the popular destinations, Middle Eastern countries have emerged as one of the new favorites for Chinese travelers. "We had some safety concerns before coming, but once we got here, we found that the places we visited were safe and beautiful, especially with local tour guide leading the way," said Deng Peng, who was spending the holiday in Jordan with three of her friends. According to Qunar, a leading Chinese online travel platform, search volumes for countries in the Middle East such as Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt have surged since last December. Throughout the entire holiday season, compared to the same period in 2023, outbound travel orders from China to the UAE, Egypt and Morocco have surged by more than threefold. Travel bookings to the city of Dubai alone have seen a growth of over 10 percent. "China is the largest tourism market," said Moslem Shojaei, director general for marketing and international tourism development at the Iranian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. A Chinese tourist poses for photos while visiting the archaeological site of Jerash in Jordan, Feb. 10, 2024. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua) From March 21, 2023, to Jan. 20, 2024, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Iran exceeded 54,000, and each Chinese tourist spent nearly 1,000 U.S. dollars on average during their trips to the country, Shojaei told Xinhua, adding that the country is now better prepared for Chinese tourists during the Spring Festival holiday. "Aside from generating economic revenues, the essence and nature of the tourism industry is that of promoting friendship and knowledge," Shojaei said. MORE THAN TOURISM Beneath the surge of Chinese tourists to the Middle East lies the discerning hospitality extended by Middle Eastern nations to Chinese visitors, as well as the increasingly close people-to-people exchanges between China and countries in the region. In an effort to woo Chinese tourists, countries such as Egypt, Jordan, the UAE and Iran have rolled out visa-on-arrival or visa-free options, further streamlining entry processes. Numerous Middle Eastern countries have taken proactive steps to increase the number of direct flights to China. Tourism officials from Turkiye, Iran and Saudi Arabia have visited China to directly promote their tourism to the Chinese public, and have specifically tailored travel routes for Chinese tourists. Two Chinese tourists sit on a bench at the historical Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkiye, Feb. 9, 2024. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua) In countries like the UAE and Egypt, local governments and tourism agencies have put on special festivities and events to celebrate the Chinese New Year with tourists. "During my travels, I really sensed the locals being super friendly towards China, and it just made the whole experience so delightful," Ms. Zhou, a Chinese traveler, told Xinhua. She had an eight-day adventure planned in Egypt, with destinations that include Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Alexandria, and the Red Sea. "The relations between China and Egypt are good, and many tour guides here have studied in China. Their proficiency in Chinese is impressive," Zhou said. "All these factors made the whole travel experience really smooth." Echoing Zhou's viewpoint, Shojaei also believes that the thriving relationship between China and Middle Eastern countries has been the key driver behind the surge of Chinese tourists flocking to the region. He recalled that during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's visit to China in 2023, both countries agreed on tourism cooperation, which greatly bolstered the growth of cross-border tourism between China and Iran. A recent report on the development of outbound tourism in China released by the China Tourism Academy indicates that as the Chinese economy and tourism market experience a steady recovery, there is an increasing eagerness among the Chinese to embark on overseas travels. This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2024 shows red lanterns at Istanbul Airport in Istanbul, Turkiye. (Xinhua/Shadati) It forecasts that in 2024 the number of Chinese outbound tourists will exceed 130 million, marking a 49 percent surge from the 87 million recorded in 2023. Industry insiders have observed that propelled by the increasingly robust ties between China and Middle Eastern nations, the influx of Chinese tourists to the region is expected to increase even more. "I expect ... the number of Chinese tourists visiting Egypt to increase more and more," said Ashraf Elewa, CEO of Interpoint Tours Travel in Egypt, noting that his company is ready to receive an increased number of Chinese tourists throughout this whole year. In the Egyptian coastal city of Hurghada, Chen Zhiming, from east China's Shandong Province enjoyed a pleasant three-day vacation. "The scenery here is stunning, and the locals are warm and friendly. I'm planning to bring my parents here again next year." Upon knowing that certain Western media expressed disappointment at the "missing" of Chinese tourists in their countries, Chen grinned slyly. "We are not 'missing.' We're simply choosing to visit places where we feel more welcomed." Editor: ZAD The Air Force said Tuesday that investigators have determined a parts failure occurred during an Osprey crash in Japan in November that killed all eight airmen on board, but the root cause of the crash is still unknown. Air Force Special Operations Command said in a statement that the two investigations into the deadly crash, a Safety Investigation Board probe and an Accident Investigation Board inquiry, are still ongoing. "At this time, the material failure that occurred is known, but the cause of the failure has not been determined," Air Force Special Operations Command said. "Engineering testing and analysis is ongoing to understand the cause of the material failure, a critical part of the investigation." Read Next: VA Paid Roughly $1 Million in Double Housing Payments to Some Student Vets Due to a Legal Loophole Prior to Tuesday's determination, the Osprey fleet had already been under intense scrutiny following other deadly mishaps and a mysterious mechanical issue -- called a hard clutch engagement, an issue that occurs in the V-22 gearbox -- that has been seen in the aircraft for more than a decade. Despite little news coming from official channels, officials inside the Pentagon, speaking anonymously, have told news outlets over the past two weeks that the investigation was progressing and eyeing the aircraft's complex series of clutches and gearboxes as a potential culprit. The Associated Press has reported that the Pentagon believes it has identified the mechanical failure that caused the crash in Japan, while NBC News reported that investigators were looking at the aircraft's propeller rotor gear box as a possible cause for the crash. The Air Force statement did not specify the aircraft's propeller rotor gear box as the issue. Military.com offered several military officials the opportunity to deny the reports and none did so on the record. The V-22 Joint Program Office, which oversees all the service's Ospreys, offered Military.com no new details Tuesday and instead said that "preliminary information provided by the Safety Investigation Board indicates a potential materiel failure, but the root cause is unknown at this time." That statement is similar to what was offered by the Air Force in December. Tuesday's statement from Air Force Special Operations Command shores up an initial assessment it gave shortly after the Nov. 29 crash that indicated a mechanical failure may have been to blame. The Air Force special operations Osprey that went down, call sign Gundam 22, was on a training mission off Japan's Yakushima Island. The deadly crash triggered a grounding of all Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy V-22s. Those service stand-downs and multiple investigations into the mishap are still ongoing. All of the services that fly the V-22 rely on them for operations and transport, and many officials have stated publicly that they wish to get them back in the air again. Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, head of Air Force Special Operations Command, said during a roundtable with reporters last week at the Air and Space Forces Association's Warfare Symposium conference in Colorado that he wants the Air Force to utilize the CV-22, that service's variant of the Osprey, as soon as possible. "There is a strong desire to return to fly because that is a capability we want to have, but we want to be able to return to fly with as much knowledge as we possibly can so that we can ensure that we are safely taking care of our crews as it goes forward," Bauernfeind told reporters. The Marine Corps, which utilizes the majority of the military's V-22s with its MV-22 variant, told Military.com on Tuesday it is eager to get them back in the air, but did not have any insight into when that would be. "Safely returning the MV-22 to flying status is one of our top priorities," said Capt. Alyssa Myers, a Marine Corps spokeswoman. "We cannot speculate on timelines." Last week, a top Marine Corps general told a conference panel that the Corps has seen "dramatic impacts" from the flying halt. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh told Military.com on Tuesday that it's up to the individual services "to determine when it's best for those Ospreys to be relieved of that stand-down order." In addition to the incident in Japan, three Marines were killed in August when their MV-22 Osprey crashed during training in Australia -- the cause has yet to be publicly confirmed by the service -- and five Marines died in 2022 when their Osprey suffered a catastrophic clutch failure during training in California. When the cause of the 2022 Osprey crash was revealed to be a hard clutch engagement last year, the office that runs the Osprey program for the Pentagon claimed "through a combination of efforts, including the recent input quill assembly replacement bulletin in February 2023, the risk of a [hard clutch engagement] event occurring was reduced by greater than 99%" despite no clear understanding of what causes the problem. The claim was met with skepticism from relatives of the victims. In addition to those revelations and incidents, just two months prior to the Nov. 29 Osprey crash, two Marine V-22 Ospreys in Japan diverted Sept. 14 within hours of each other due to "cockpit caution indications" in the aircraft while flying near where the Air Force Osprey later crashed, Military.com previously reported. The last deadly Air Force Osprey crash occurred in 2010, when three service members and a civilian contractor died in Afghanistan, according to Air Force Safety Center data. The cause could not be determined by an investigative board. Since 1992, the aircraft, which can fly like both a helicopter and a plane, has been involved in numerous crashes, accidents and mishaps, leading to more than 60 deaths. After the clutch issues became public in August 2022, the Marine Corps revealed it knew about the issue as far back as 2010 and that there have been at least 15 mishaps linked to the "hard clutch issue," with 10 involving Marine Corps aircraft. Search efforts in the Nov. 29 crash involved more than 1,000 personnel, 46 aircraft, 23 maritime vessels, and 21 unmanned air and watercraft looking for wreckage and remains, covering more than 60,000 square kilometers of the ocean surface and 39 square kilometers of the ocean floor, according to the Air Force. The U.S. military last month concluded its search efforts after 43 days of recovery and salvage efforts. Remains of seven airmen who died in the Nov. 29 mishap were located, recovered and identified during the search off the southern tip of mainland Japan, but Air Force Special Operations Command said in a statement that the body of Maj. Eric Spendlove could not be found. Last month, Military.com reported that the Government Accountability Office agreed to look into the Osprey incidents following a request by Reps. John Garamendi, D-Calif., and Mike Waltz, R-Fla. The lawmakers asked the agency "to conduct a review on the cause of the accidents that have resulted in several deaths involving the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft (V-22) during military operations and training exercises." Since the Nov. 29 crash, however, the Pentagon has not announced its own investigation into all the incidents involving the Osprey in recent history. Military.com reported last year that the Air Force, Marines and Navy have stopped new purchases of the aircraft and said only that they "will complete the MV-22 and CMV-22 programs of record, with deliveries through 2025." Related: Air Force Has 'Strong Desire' to Fly Osprey Again Following Deadly Crash, But Questions Remain LONDON Russia is rebuilding its capacity to destabilize European countries and extend its influence in the Middle East and Africa, posing a strategic threat to NATO as its members focus on the war in Ukraine, a U.K.-based think tank said Tuesday. In a sweeping report, researchers at the Royal United Services Institute argue that Western nations need to do more to counter Moscows use of unconventional warfare if they are to succeed in turning back Russias invasion of Ukraine. As the war in Ukraine protracts, Russia has an interest in creating crises further afield, authors Jack Watling, Oleksandr V. Danylyuk and Nick Reynolds wrote, citing the Balkans as a region that is ripe for mischief. Russia also has an active interest in destabilizing Ukraines partners, and with a slew of elections forthcoming across Europe there is a wide range of opportunities to exacerbate polarization, the authors said. The 35-page report by the think tank, founded in 1831, was released only days before the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. While Russian efforts to destabilize countries such as Moldova failed due to security lapses and the mass expulsion of Kremlin operatives, the Russian military is now strengthening its ability to launch unconventional attacks, the report says. Using documents obtained from Russian secret services and interviews with official bodies in Ukraine and some European states, the report weaves a narrative of Russias efforts to extend its influence beyond the present conflict in Ukraine. The threat extends beyond Ukraine and the active collaboration of those states that are being targeted," it said and urged for sustained vigilance over a range of issues. Russia has also been expanding ties with African and Middle Eastern states, displacing Western interests in those regions. This new Russian colonialism seeks to create what the authors call an Entente Roscolonial a group of states that "actively seek to assist Russia, while also becoming increasingly subordinate to Russian influence, according to the report. The entente posed a serious threat to Western interests because of a strong and bitter sense that the U.S. and NATO act differently in Ukraine than they do in places like Gaza and Tigray, the region of northern Ethiopia that has been devastated by conflict, the report said. Similarly, the apparent contrast in Western language and rhetoric between how it described the destruction of Aleppo or Mariupol, and how it has excused Israeli operations in Gaza, leave many on the continent perceiving a gap between Western rhetoric about values and the values practiced by those who have, for so long, imposed constraints on the policies of African states to enforce values-based norms. The new colonialism, the report said, was intertwined with the formation of the Wagner Group, a nominally private company that provided mercenaries for wars in Africa, the Middle East and Ukraine, giving the Russian government plausible deniability about its role in these conflicts. Following the death of the Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, these units have been brought more directly under the control of the Russian military. This new Expeditionary Corps is now offering a regime survival package to authoritarian governments in countries like Mali and the Central African Republic. PJSC Ukrnafta received the first 50 pumps from the German Oil Dynamics GmbH, the first two of which are already operating at wells. "Workers of the oil and gas production department Dolinanaftogaz, together with representatives of Oil Dynamics GmbH, installed new pumps at two wells for the first time. Workers from other regions familiarized themselves with the process they will also work with the new equipment," the company said in a press release on Wednesday. A total of 50 electric centrifugal pumps, which help to intensify production, will be distributed almost equally between the eastern and western divisions of the company 27 to 23, respectively. "We are expecting the delivery of another 150 electric centrifugal pumps in batches of 50 pieces. The integrated solution from Oil Dynamics GmbH includes electric pumping systems, control stations and software that increases the life cycle of equipment through continuous remote monitoring," Ukrnafta Director Serhiy Koretsky said. When officials announced historic sweeping changes to the Air Force and Space Force's structure last week to prepare for potential conflict with China, it seemed they had thought of everything. But all those changes seemed to overlook one potential theater of war, one that the U.S. military has not been able to withdraw from for decades -- the Middle East. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin told Military.com during a reporter's roundtable at the Air and Space Forces Association's conference in Colorado last week that the new strategy is not optimized for that region. "I would say that, if we had to choose one or another, it is not best optimized for the Middle East," Allvin said. "It is best optimized for the pacing challenge that our national defense strategy says we need to focus on." Read Next: Marines Field New Technology that Can Measure Bullet Trajectory, Simulated Wounds in California Exercise Both former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden's administrations have put recent national defense strategy focus on China. Defense officials have said that President Xi Jinping has told his military to be ready to take Taiwan by force by 2027. But American service members are still dying in the Middle East. Late last month, three U.S. soldiers were killed in Jordan, while more than 40 other service members were injured following a drone strike at a military base near the Syrian border. Also, last month, a pair of Navy SEAL operators fell into the water amid efforts to board an unflagged ship carrying Iranian-made weapons to Houthi rebels off the coast of Somalia. Both are presumed dead. Military.com has reported that U.S. military strikes are ramping up on Houthi forces in Yemen, and militant attacks on troops in Iraq and Syria are growing. Additionally, the war between Israel and Hamas continues to lead to massive casualties in the Gaza Strip and sparked a wave of regional turmoil. The Air Force's strategy, which identifies China as the main focus, is reminiscent of the Marine Corps' Force Design -- a controversial effort that updates the service's warfighting strategy to take on a conflict, in part, in the Pacific. Notably, despite that overall strategy, the Pentagon has recently deployed the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit and a Navy amphibious ready group headed by the USS Bataan in the Mediterranean Sea amid growing regional turmoil in the Middle East. Houthi fighters have also shot down and targeted MQ-9 Reapers, according to the Pentagon, and media reports state the service has bombed targets in Syria in response to Iran militia attacks. Mark Cancian, a retired Marine Corps colonel and a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Washington, D.C., said the Air Force and Marine Corps have taken on a similar strategy, and it's proving hard to disengage with the Middle East. "The Air Force and the Marine Corps have taken very similar paths, basically arguing that the national strategy prioritizes China as the pacing threat and therefore they're going to focus on China and leave other global responsibility either to other services or as lesser priorities," Cancian said. "I personally think that's a mistake, because we can't just walk away from the rest of the world. "We've seen that we've been dragged back into Europe because of the Russians, and we've been dragged back in the Middle East because of conflicts with Hamas and then with Iran," he said. "We are not able strategically to disengage from these areas." The Air Force has already started adjusting some of its Middle East-focused aircraft and jobs to confront China. Last year, Military.com reported that the Air Force announced it was retiring more A-10 Warthogs from service and that it also aims to cut over the next three years the number of elite airmen responsible for calling in close-air support on the battlefield. Katherine Kuzminski, a military researcher at the Center for a New American Security think tank, told Military.com that it's unlikely the U.S. military will free up its involvement in the Middle East, but she said it's possible the Air Force will play a different role in the future, highlighting the Navy and Marine Corps response in the region recently. "The reality is that, with what's going on between Hamas and Israel, while that's not necessarily the Air Force mission ... I don't know how much we would lean on the Air Force versus other services," Kuzminski said. "It's not optimized for the Middle East, and that doesn't mean that we won't ever be in the Middle East again, but that also may not be an Air Force lead challenge." The Air Force's big strategic changes announced this month include bringing back warrant officers -- a plan first reported by Military.com -- as well as changes to training. Overall, 24 different changes were unveiled: 16 for the Air Force, five for the Space Force and three for the entire Department of the Air Force. Some of the changes are specific and short-term goals set to happen within a year, while a majority are vague renaming and rebranding efforts aimed at "great power competition," Defense Department lingo for escalating defense spending, operational strategy and overall resources against adversaries -- namely, China. Rose Riley, a Department of the Air Force spokeswoman, said the new efforts also are "looking at how we fight and how units are structured, particularly [continental U.S.] units that are going to be called upon to go forward and fight with short notice." It will also involve reorienting Air Combat Command and changing the relationship between combat wings and base commands. The service will stand up a new Integrated Capabilities Command, which will be led by a three-star general to oversee those strategies. Other new commands and organizations being created include the Information Dominance Systems Center and the Air Dominance Systems Center, as well as an Air Force Nuclear Systems Center within the existing Air Force Materiel Command. The service is also elevating Air Force Cyber to a stand-alone service component command to highlight the importance of cyber warfare against China. And the Space Force is setting up a new field command called Space Futures Command focused, in part, on "experimentation and war games," the Department of the Air Force said. Riley told Military.com on Wednesday that the new strategies do not mean the service will be absent in the Middle East but highlight the overall competitive threat airmen and Guardians need to prepare for. "The Department of the Air Force will continue supporting combatant commander requirements in the U.S. Central Command region and around the world in support of the joint force through these reoptimization efforts," Riley said. "To strengthen deterrence and ensure airmen and Guardians are as prepared as possible to fight and win, should deterrence fail, we need to continue to adapt to the threat and the competitive environment we are now experiencing." One of these changes includes renaming and reorganizing Air Education and Training Command into a new Airman Development Command "to provide airmen a common, mission-focused development and training path." As well, Allvin said the service wants to "upgrade and advance the cadet experience" for ROTC and Air Force Academy students to "lead in a complex environment" to take on China. "Xi Jinping has told his military to be ready to take Taiwan by force by 2027, even if the U.S. intervenes," Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said at the Air and Space Forces Association's conference last week. "Freshmen at both the Air Force Academy and those entering ROTC units will be commissioned in 2027." Allvin added during his media roundtable that the current strategies and principles remain focused on the Middle East. He said the Air Force can still take on threats in the region, but it must change overall to take on China. "Right now, we are optimized for a scheme of maneuver that takes us in the Middle East in the same way we have in the last 20 years," Allvin said. "That is not the pacing challenge, and that is not the great threat in front of us. "So, while we will still expect to do those, we will do those in a manner that comes from an Air Force that is optimized to be able to deploy into the Indo-Pacific or other areas where you have to confront a challenge or threat the size and scope of the [People's Republic of China]," he said. Related: In Major Overhaul, Air Force and Space Force Will Roll Out New Ranks, Training, Structure to Compete with China The Michigan Attorney Generals Office has charged two Republican fundraising consultants in connection with an alleged dark money scheme meant to conceal the identities of donors a petition effort to limit Gov. Gretchen Whitmers powers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Two nonprofits connected to former state Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, Michigan! My Michigan! and Michigan Citizens for Fiscal Responsibility, together donated more than $2.6 million to the petition drive, dubbed Unlock Michigan. For the second day in a row, residents in Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio are being told not to worry if they hear a roar in the skies. The 180th Fighter Wing of the Ohio National Guard is again conducting two separate functional check flights that may lead to a sonic boom being heard once supersonic speeds are reached. The testing is scheduled to take place in the areas of Ottawa, Findlay and Lima, Ohio, however the sounds the jets make could possibly be heard as far north as Michigan. Weather permitting, Wednesdays tests are scheduled between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and again between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Related story: Nighttime Ohio fighter jet training scares some Michigan residents The functional check flight are necessary after the planes undergo heavy maintenance in order to ensure all systems are working properly. The tests put the aircraft through strenuous testing and maneuvers and if everything works as intended the plane is put back into rotation for possible use during missions. GLEN LAKE, MI A Northern Michigan teacher is accused of taking inappropriate, unclothed photos of students, police said. Elijah Daniel George, 26, of Traverse City, is charged with three counts of surveilling an unclothed person and three counts of using a computer to commit a crime, according to a news release. On Jan. 24, the Leelanau County Sheriffs Office was contacted by Glen Lake Community Schools for a complaint involving a teacher who was suspected of taking inappropriate photos of students. George is no longer employed by the school district, police said. The investigation included several search warrants executed on electronic devices and residences in Leelanau County and St. Clair County, police said. An initial forensic examination of several electronic devices was undertaken; some results are still pending. Upon completion of the initial investigation, a report was forwarded to the local prosecutors office, which then charged George with the crimes listed above. On Thursday, Feb. 15, George was arrested in Marysville by the Marysville Police Department and transported to the St. Clair County Jail. He was returned to Leelanau County the following day. George was arraigned and released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond. FLINT, MI -- The Genesee County Election Commission has approved two sets of petition language, each targeting 3rd Ward Flint Councilman Quincy Murphy for recall. The commission gave the green light to circulators to begin collecting signatures during a meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 21, provided Murphy, a first-term council member, doesnt appeal its decision in Genesee Circuit Court within the next 10 days. GRAND RAPIDS, MI Two vacant properties on Grand Rapids southeast side would see new life under tentative plans to furnish them with single-family homes that will be income restricted. On Tuesday, Feb. 20, Grand Rapids city commissioners gave initial approval for LINC UP to purchase the properties for $5,000 each for the construction of the homes, which would be sold to people making 80% or less of the area median income. Final approval authorizing the sale is expected to come at the commissions 7 p.m. meeting Tuesday via a sweeping consent agenda vote. Construction on the homes is expected to begin this spring, with the homes put up for sale around December, said Stephanie Gingerich, LINC UPs real estate development director. The two properties are at 1720 Martin Ave. SE and 1842 Collins Ave. SE. Its part of LINCs mission to provide opportunities for households in that income bracket who wouldnt otherwise have an opportunity necessarily on the open market to buy a new home, Gingerich said. Both homes would have two stories and a basement, along with one-and-a-half bathrooms and two bedrooms with room for a third. The sale price of the homes is estimated around $225,000, but that final figure depends on the appraisal, Gingerich said. Gingerich said LINC UP will work with the new owners to connect them with federal dollars to reduce the principal on the first mortgage, helping make homeownership more affordable. Since 2017, LINC UP has built or renovated homes on 10 vacant, land bank properties all on the citys southeast side and sold them to people and families making under the area median income. A big point of homeownership for us is generational wealth thats being built by being a homeowner, Gingerich said. LINC UP will be seeking federal funds through the city to help subsidize the cost of building the homes. Gingerich said its rare for LINC UP to make profit on the sale of the homes. We typically do not make any profits on the sales, she said. The costs are more than the pricing on the home. The two vacant properties are owned by the Michigan State Land Bank, but the city has control over how the properties are sold. That agreement came about after the Kent County Land Bank was dissolved in 2019. Under the citys policy adopted in 2022, vacant properties, in their first six months on the market, are only available to qualified nonprofit housing developers for affordable housing projects. Then, between six months to a year, they are available to any developer but must be made into an affordable housing development. After a year, the properties are available for sale to anyone, with projects being prioritized in the order of those that forward the goals of affordable housing, homeownership, local ownership and then emerging developers. People can view vacant city properties available for development at this link. IDS Ukraine, the largest player in the water market in the country, paid UAH 800 million in taxes to budgets of all levels in 2023, which is UAH 101 million more than in 2022, according to the company's release that is available to Interfax-Ukraine. According to the company's forecasts, the upward trend in tax payments will continue in 2024, since in January IDS Ukraine already transferred UAH 73.7 million to budgets of various levels. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the total amount of taxes paid by IDS Ukraine amounted to about UAH 1.5 billion. In addition, the company noted that IDS Ukraine has invested UAH 2.3 billion in the Ukrainian economy over the past 5 years, of which almost UAH 500 million has been since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. It is indicated that the activities of the company's enterprises support the communities of the cities of Myrhorod and Morshyn, for which IDS Ukraine factories are an important donor of local budgets and a place of work for citizens. In 2023, IDS Ukraine also released new products - the energy drink Volia and the juice drink Lemonade, the launch of which increased tax revenues to budgets of all levels by tens of millions of hryvnia, the company emphasized. "Successful activities in the market and the company's profitability allow us to pay taxes necessary to finance defense expenditures, pay wages to a team of three thousand people and provide a wide range of humanitarian assistance to our colleagues who are now defending the country at the front, rescuers and all Ukrainians suffering from the invasion and those in need of support," General Director Mark Tkachuk commented on the results of IDS Ukraine. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A businessman, an elementary school principal and an environmental advocate are the three finalists to become a Grand Rapids Third Ward city commissioner for the remainder of the year. The pool of seven candidates was narrowed down to three Tuesday, Feb. 20, by the city commissions Committee on Appointments after about three hours of public interviews. The full meeting, including all seven candidate interviews which each lasted about 25 minutes., can be found at this link. The three finalists Bing Goei, John Krajewski and Marshall Kilgore will now move forward to being interviewed by the full Grand Rapids City Commission during a public meeting at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 5. The meeting will take place in City Commission Chambers on the 9th floor of City Hall at 300 Monroe Ave. NW. The city commission is tasked with appointing someone to fill the vacancy on the public body left by Nathaniel Moody, the former Third Ward Commissioner. Moody resigned midterm on Dec. 31, 2023, saying he wished to focus more time on his family and health. Related: Grand Rapids city commissioner resigning midterm If city commissioners on March 5 do not reach a decision on Moodys replacement, they will likely do so at their following meeting on March 19. Whoever replaces Moody will serve as a city commissioner through Dec. 31, 2024, unless they decide to run for the seat in the 2024 elections for a chance at a full four-year term. Each of the finalists received unanimous approval Tuesday by the three-member Committee on Appointments to move forward for consideration. The committee is chaired by Third Ward Commissioner Kelsey Perdue. The other members are First Ward Commissioner Drew Robbins and Second Ward Commissioner Milinda Ysasi. Related: Here are the 7 applicants for vacant seat on Grand Rapids City Commission Ysasi was the first to recommend a finalist, choosing Goei. She spoke about his long entrepreneurial experience in the city and investments he has led in the First Ward. Robbins then recommended Krajewski, saying his experience working in public schools translates to a number of qualities required of being a good commissioner. Some of those qualities, Robbins said, include communication skills, working with people of diverse backgrounds and being able to resolve conflicts and balance differing opinions. The last recommendation was again from Ysasi, who put forward Kilgore. Ysasi cited the number of local boards Kilgore currently serves on and said that service gives a sense of what is required of being a city commissioner. Kilgore is newer to Grand Rapids but has deep roots in the city, Ysasi said, and he has shown a commitment to wanting to learn more. In alphabetical order, heres a brief overview of each finalist along with the applications and essay question responses they submitted to the city. All redactions were made by Grand Rapids city staff. Bing Goei Goei is the CEO of Eastern Floral in Kentwood and has lived in Grand Rapids for 64 years. Goei was appointed by former Gov. Rick Snyder as the first director of the Michigan Office for New Americans and he has served on a variety of boards and commissions in the area, including those for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, the Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission and the West Michigan Asian American Association. Marshall Kilgore Kilgore is the director of engagement at West Michigan Environmental Action Council and has lived in Grand Rapids for just under a year. Kilgore also serves as a board member for Seeds of Promise and on the citys Vital Streets Oversight Commission, Housing Appeals Board and the Urban Agriculture Committee. In 2021, Kilgore made an unsuccessful run for the Kalamazoo City Commission. John Krajewski Krajewski is the principal of Hopkins Elementary School in Allegan County and has lived in Grand Rapids for 38 years. Krajewski said he has more than two decades of experience in public education and law enforcement and holds a masters degrees in education and educational leadership. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A former Grand Rapids police officer who fatally shot motorist Patrick Lyoya has asked the state Court of Appeals to reconsider its finding he should be tried for second-degree murder. Attorneys for Christopher Schurr said the Court of Appeals erred in affirming a district judges decision to bind Schurr over for trial in Kent County Circuit Court. Officer Schurr respectfully argues that this Courts opinion affirming bindover was based on palpable factual and legal errors that, if corrected, would result in a different disposition, attorneys Matthew Borgula and Mark D. Dodge wrote, in a recent filing. In last months 2-1 ruling, appellate judges Kathleen Feeney and Colleen OBrien upheld Grand Rapids District Judge Nicholas Ayoubs ruling that Schurr should stand trial. Judge Brock Swartzle dissented and said the case should be returned to the district judge. Related: Ex-officers Taser a key issue in split decision to uphold murder charge in Lyoya death Schurr had stopped Lyoyas car for an improper license plate around 8:10 a.m. on April 4, 2022, in Southeast Grand Rapids. Lyoya tried to run. After a lengthy struggle, in which the defense says Lyoya gained control of the officers Taser and even transferred it to his other hand, Schurr shot Lyoya in the back of his head. Lyoya was face down, with the officer on top of him, when Schurr yelled, Let go of the Taser! Moments later, the officer fired a single shot. Lyoya, 26, a Congolese immigrant, was Black. The former officer is white. The Court of Appeals set a Feb. 29 deadline for Kent County prosecutors to respond to the defense motion for reconsideration. Related: Ex-Grand Rapids police officer acted reasonably in fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya, attorney tells appeals panel Defense attorneys said there were numerous factual errors in the recitation of facts contained in the majority opinion. The Court cannot make factual findings, unless it determines that the district courts factual findings were clearly erroneous and substitutes its judgment as a result. In substituting its factual findings for those of the district court absent clear error, this Court improperly inserted itself as the factfinder, defense attorneys wrote. The attorneys asked the appeals court to reevaluate its decision without attributing factual findings to the district court that the district court did not actually make . The defense also said appeals judges failed to apply proper legal review. Had this Court applied the correct facts to the law, the bindover should have been quashed and the charge dismissed. Among the challenged factual findings: The majority opinion said the district judge determined that Schurr pointed his gun at the back of Lyoyas head when Lyoya was prone and not in a position to threaten (the officer) or affect an escape. The district court actually found, Lyoya (was continuing) to attempt to force himself up and as Schurr drew his gun, Lyoya was completely impervious to the officers attempts to subdue and restrain him, and at the instant the shot (wa)s fired, Lyoya (wa)s not in a position of actively escaping or fleeing. Related: When will ex-Grand Rapids police officers murder trial happen? Legal fight continues. The appellate ruling also said Schurr twice discharged his Taser while he and Lyoya were wrestling while upright but the district judge actually determined that the two struggled to the ground with Lyoya underneath Schurr attempting to take exclusive control of the Taser. During the struggle (on the ground), the Tasers second cartridge was discharged, the filing said. Once both Taser cartridges were discharged, it could still be used as a drive-stun device pressed against skin to cause pain and possible injury but the majority opinion said it was not a dangerous weapon per se. Swartzle, the appeals judge who wrote the dissent, said that case should be returned to district court to determine if the Taser should be considered a dangerous weapon. The appellate ruling also said Lyoya appeared tired before the Taser was first discharged but the district judge found it had no apparent affect on Lyoya , defense attorneys wrote. The defense also disputed the district judges legal ruling affirmed by the appeals panel that police can only used deadly force for self defense, a principle applied to private citizens, denying officers the ability to use force when met with force during arrests they are duty-bound to affect. The defense said a different legal standard had been applied in an unrelated case, leaving Michigan police officers to guess when they can be charged with a crime and what law the courts will apply when evaluating their conduct. The majority opinion said video showed Lyoya resisting the officer but said he did not attack the officer. LAKE COUNTY, MI A man caught in a love triangle suffered stab wounds in a fight with his girlfriends estranged boyfriend, state police said. The incident happened Sunday, Feb. 18, at the 18-year-old womans Baldwin home. A 19-year-old Georgia man, who met the woman online, had stayed with her for over a week when she ended the relationship and began dating a 31-year-old Hart man, police said. The three were at the womans home around 5 p.m. when the two men began fighting, and the estranged boyfriend stabbed the older man twice, state police said. Another adult at the residence was driving the woman and injured man to Corewell Health Ludington Hospital but stopped on U.S.10 in Mason Countys Branch Township and abandoned the two on the side of the road, state police said. The driver returned to the Baldwin home because two small children had been left alone there. Mason-Oceana 911 then received a call reporting a stabbing victim on the highway. The man was taken to the Ludington hospital by Life EMS ambulance then airlifted to a Grand Rapids hospital. He was in serious condition but stable, state police said. The 19-year-old who alleged committed the stabbing was arrested and taken to Lake County Jail. State police were assisted by sheriffs deputies from Mason and Lake counties and state Department of Natural Resources officers. The incident remains under investigation. NEWAYGO, MI A wood products manufacturer in Newaygo has been awarded a $137,500 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation as part of a planned expansion that includes up to 25 new jobs and an $8.7 million capital investment. G-M Wood Products, which was founded in 1987 and manufactures door frames and components, is experiencing significant growth, and wants to build a 25,000-square-foot building next to its current facility at 531 Clay St. in Newaygo, according to The Right Place, a Grand Rapids-based economic development group that is assisting the company with its expansion. By constructing the new building, G-M Wood Products can bring some manufacturing, which is currently being done in Pennsylvania and China, in-house, according to the MEDC. Doing so will give the company better product control, decreased production times, and reduced production costs. G-M Wood Products Vice President Kevin Karrip said hes excited to grow the companys Newaygo campus. We are bringing a new technology on site that we previously sourced from out of state and overseas, he said. We firmly believe that the value of automated USA manufacturing will continue to increase over the coming years. The company employs 139 people in Michigan and 40 in Toccoa, Georgia. An MEDC memo said the up to 25 jobs the project is expected to create will pay an average hourly wage of $23.19, which equates to $48,235 a year. The Newaygo County Economic Development Corporation, which is operated by The Right Place, said it assisted the company with its expansion and its decision to do so in Newaygo rather than Georgia. We are thrilled to work with the team at G-M Wood Products, providing the resources they need to expand their operations in Michigan, said Julie Burrell, senior economic development director of the Newaygo County Economic Development Corporation. They continue to be a great community partner and are a key driver of the continued growth in Newaygo County. An MEDC memo said the $137,500 state grant was needed to ensure the company expands in Newaygo. This expansion represents a significant capital investment for the company, the MEDC memo said. The incentive package is critical to the company being able to maximize its investment to fulfill the expense to complete the 25,000 square foot real property expansion, along with the necessary machinery and equipment purchases. More on MLive: First-ever tater tot festival coming to Grand Rapids Popular Muskegon-area restaurant expanding to Grand Rapids How the lack of affordable childcare limits the West Michigan workforce economy 3 finalists selected for vacant seat on Grand Rapids City Commission KALAMAZOO, MI -- The defense and prosecution agree that Kahree Louis Compton shot and killed 17-year-old Jashaw Omar Jones. But they dont agree why the then-16-year-old shot the masked Jones outside an apartment building at Kalamazoos Interfaith Apartments. The jury heard closing arguments in the case on Tuesday, Feb. 20, with deliberations expected next before the jury makes a decision and announces its findings. Compton, now 18, of Kalamazoo, is charged with one count of open murder and felony firearms. The fatal shooting happened Dec. 16, 2022, at Interfaith Apartments. Attorney Matt Wait of Kalamazoo Defender appeared in court to represent Compton during the trial that began Wednesday, Feb. 14, with closing arguments on Tuesday. This case is about a justified taking of life, Wait said. Justified by my clients actions that day. Wait said Compton knew the Brick Boys gang did not like him and intended to harm him. He knew another gang member, TK, was a member of the Brick Boys and TK was at the home before the shooting happened, Wait said. TK was communicating with the Brick Boys before the shooting about Compton, Wait said. Kahree Louis Compton, 17, during his preliminary examination for open murder at the Kalamazoo County Courthouse in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, April 24, 2023. Compton was bound over on a charge of open murder for the shooting death of Jashawn Omar Jones, 17, at Interfaith Apartments in December of 2022. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com TK texted Jones to tell him Compton was coming outside, Wait said. Compton knew something was wrong before the shooting occurred, Wait said. The attorney said he has no doubt Jones was lying in wait for Compton to come outside. Jones was an alleged member of the Brick Boys, according to testimony in the case. Is it reasonable to wait for someone to draw down on you? No, Wait said, arguing that Compton believed he needed to do what he did, otherwise he would be dead. The Brick Boys worked in a coordinated effort to attack Compton that day, Wait said. Compton reported to police he shot a masked man outside the apartment when the man went to reach for something in his own jacket, Wait said. After the shooting, Compton ran home and was scared other Brick Boys would target him, Wait said. Wait argued that the testimony shows someone removed a gun from Jones after he had been shot. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Chelsea Huber questioned the defense attorneys version of the case during a closing statement to the jury. They want you to believe that the defendant walked out of the door that day, turned right, went down to the edge of that building and saw that person who he only knew as a stranger at that time, opened his jacket, puled out his firearm, pointed his firearm and shot that person dead, Huber said. That version of events is not what happened, according to Huber. Because what it was was unjustifiable murder, Huber said. Huber said the day began normally, but it turned into a nightmare for Jones mother, as she received the news her son had been killed. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter. MUSKEGON, MI Tears of joy and shouts of, Thank you, God, filled a tightly-packed courtroom within seconds of a judge ruling in favor to follow one familys request. Family and friends of Jaszmine Phillips celebrated loudly Tuesday, Feb. 20, when Muskegon County Circuit Judge Kenneth Hoopes ruled that Phillips, an organ donor, did not have to donate her organs. GRAND HAVEN, MI Beach cleanups, the U.S. Coast Guard Fest and other community events in Grand Haven rely on volunteers to keep them rolling. Now is the time to express your interest in lending a helping hand. MUSKEGON, MI -- What started as a secret menu item is becoming a new blended experience in Muskegon. Wonderland Distilling Co. worked with Aldea Coffee to create a signature roast with a bold, nutty, complex flavor that would complement the distillerys signature cocktail list. The air force has shot down another Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber, the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on the Telegram channel on Wednesday morning. "This time I can say that the Su-35 pilot was lucky: he maneuvered and is no longer taking risks. But the Su-34 crew is joining our column 'Eternal flight, brothers," Commander of the Air Force of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleschuk said. Why Middle East becomes popular holiday choices for Chinese tourists? Xinhua) 08:06, February 21, 2024 CAIRO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Mohamed Hassan has been bustling around different tourist attractions in Egypt these days. A continuous influx of Chinese tour groups has kept this Egyptian tour guide on his toes, and he has lost count of how many times he's visited the pyramids this month. "I never formally studied Chinese; I acquired it from interacting with Chinese tourists," said Hassan, who speaks fluent Mandarin with a bit of Beijing accent. "These days, my Chinese is progressing even more." Chinese tourists pose for a photo at Cairo International Airport in Cairo, Egypt, Feb. 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) During the Spring Festival holiday, similar sentiments were echoed by tour guides across various Middle Eastern countries. Whether it's at the pyramids in Egypt, in the ancient city of Jerash in Jordan, or in the streets of Iran, Chinese tourists posing for photos were a common sight. The allure of exotic tourist attractions, hospitable travel environments, and the deepening ties with China are casting Middle Eastern countries as increasingly favored destinations for Chinese travelers venturing abroad. INFLUX OF CHINESE TOURISTS It's half past midnight. A long queue had already formed, snaking its way to the boarding gate for Flight HU0471 (from Shenzhen to Cairo) at Bao'an International Airport in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. A flight attendant at the airport told Xinhua that with the onset of the Spring Festival holiday, flights to Cairo have been operating at near full capacity. Among those waiting in line is Zhang Fengxia from south China's Guangdong Province, who had signed up with her sister for a 10-day tour to Egypt. "I've been longing to visit Egypt for quite some time, eager to lay eyes on the Egyptian pyramids I've known in books since childhood and to gain a deeper understanding of Egyptian culture and civilization," she said. Chinese tourists visit the Giza Pyramids scenic spot in Giza, Egypt, Feb. 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) The heightened tensions in Gaza and the Red Sea have precipitated a significant decline in tourist arrivals to Middle Eastern nations. However, the influx of Chinese tourists has made their lackluster off-peak travel markets more vibrant. Data from multiple travel platforms indicates that during this year's Spring Festival holiday, Chinese tourists' outbound travel has shown a significant acceleration in recovery, with booking volumes reaching a near four-year peak. Among the popular destinations, Middle Eastern countries have emerged as one of the new favorites for Chinese travelers. "We had some safety concerns before coming, but once we got here, we found that the places we visited were safe and beautiful, especially with local tour guide leading the way," said Deng Peng, who was spending the holiday in Jordan with three of her friends. According to Qunar, a leading Chinese online travel platform, search volumes for countries in the Middle East such as Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt have surged since last December. Throughout the entire holiday season, compared to the same period in 2023, outbound travel orders from China to the UAE, Egypt and Morocco have surged by more than threefold. Travel bookings to the city of Dubai alone have seen a growth of over 10 percent. "China is the largest tourism market," said Moslem Shojaei, director general for marketing and international tourism development at the Iranian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. A Chinese tourist poses for photos while visiting the archaeological site of Jerash in Jordan, Feb. 10, 2024. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua) From March 21, 2023, to Jan. 20, 2024, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Iran exceeded 54,000, and each Chinese tourist spent nearly 1,000 U.S. dollars on average during their trips to the country, Shojaei told Xinhua, adding that the country is now better prepared for Chinese tourists during the Spring Festival holiday. "Aside from generating economic revenues, the essence and nature of the tourism industry is that of promoting friendship and knowledge," Shojaei said. MORE THAN TOURISM Beneath the surge of Chinese tourists to the Middle East lies the discerning hospitality extended by Middle Eastern nations to Chinese visitors, as well as the increasingly close people-to-people exchanges between China and countries in the region. In an effort to woo Chinese tourists, countries such as Egypt, Jordan, the UAE and Iran have rolled out visa-on-arrival or visa-free options, further streamlining entry processes. Numerous Middle Eastern countries have taken proactive steps to increase the number of direct flights to China. Tourism officials from Turkiye, Iran and Saudi Arabia have visited China to directly promote their tourism to the Chinese public, and have specifically tailored travel routes for Chinese tourists. Two Chinese tourists sit on a bench at the historical Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkiye, Feb. 9, 2024. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua) In countries like the UAE and Egypt, local governments and tourism agencies have put on special festivities and events to celebrate the Chinese New Year with tourists. "During my travels, I really sensed the locals being super friendly towards China, and it just made the whole experience so delightful," Ms. Zhou, a Chinese traveler, told Xinhua. She had an eight-day adventure planned in Egypt, with destinations that include Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Alexandria, and the Red Sea. "The relations between China and Egypt are good, and many tour guides here have studied in China. Their proficiency in Chinese is impressive," Zhou said. "All these factors made the whole travel experience really smooth." Echoing Zhou's viewpoint, Shojaei also believes that the thriving relationship between China and Middle Eastern countries has been the key driver behind the surge of Chinese tourists flocking to the region. He recalled that during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's visit to China in 2023, both countries agreed on tourism cooperation, which greatly bolstered the growth of cross-border tourism between China and Iran. A recent report on the development of outbound tourism in China released by the China Tourism Academy indicates that as the Chinese economy and tourism market experience a steady recovery, there is an increasing eagerness among the Chinese to embark on overseas travels. This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2024 shows red lanterns at Istanbul Airport in Istanbul, Turkiye. (Xinhua/Shadati) It forecasts that in 2024 the number of Chinese outbound tourists will exceed 130 million, marking a 49 percent surge from the 87 million recorded in 2023. Industry insiders have observed that propelled by the increasingly robust ties between China and Middle Eastern nations, the influx of Chinese tourists to the region is expected to increase even more. "I expect ... the number of Chinese tourists visiting Egypt to increase more and more," said Ashraf Elewa, CEO of Interpoint Tours Travel in Egypt, noting that his company is ready to receive an increased number of Chinese tourists throughout this whole year. In the Egyptian coastal city of Hurghada, Chen Zhiming, from east China's Shandong Province enjoyed a pleasant three-day vacation. "The scenery here is stunning, and the locals are warm and friendly. I'm planning to bring my parents here again next year." Upon knowing that certain Western media expressed disappointment at the "missing" of Chinese tourists in their countries, Chen grinned slyly. "We are not 'missing.' We're simply choosing to visit places where we feel more welcomed." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) One person was killed and eight more were injured on February 20 in Donetsk region, Head of the regional military administration Vadym Filashkin said. "On February 20, the Russians killed one resident of Donbas in the village of Kostiantynivka. Another eight people in the region were injured during the day," he said on the Telegram channel. The Polish government is negotiating with farmers, as well as trade unions, to unblock traffic across the Ukrainian-Polish border, Polish President Andrzej Duda said in an exclusive interview with Ukrainian Radio. "I know that negotiations are now taking place between the Polish government and farmers, as well as trade unions, to unblock the borders and to make this possible. But this blocking of the border is not the decision of the Polish government, this is not the decision of any Polish government. This it's just a decision made by farmers, farmer organizations," Duda said. The President of Poland also said: "These protests, one might say, have now spread throughout almost the entire European Union. Simply put, farmers are afraid of a huge influx of Ukrainian agricultural products into the markets of the European Union countries... They demand that the European Union resolve this issue at the level of Brussels. And negotiations on this matter are now underway." According to him, the problem of the influx of Ukrainian food began even earlier. "It started because of Russian aggression against Ukraine. Because let's remember that it is Russian aggression against Ukraine that is to blame for everything, and not someone else. If there had been no Russian aggression against Ukraine, then this problem would not have arisen at all. The problem is that Russia attacked Ukraine," the Polish president said. Ukrainian air defense destroyed the Kh-59 missile and 13 of the 19 Shahed drones that attacked Ukraine, the Ukrainian Air Force said on its Telegram channel on Wednesday morning. "On the night of February 21, 2024, the invaders attacked with an S-300 anti-aircraft guided missile (Rostov region), a Kh-59 guided aircraft missile (Belgorod region), 4 Kh-22 cruise missiles (Rostov region) and 19 of Shahed type attack drones (Primorsko-Akhtarsk Russia)," the Air Force said in the statement. It is noted that as a result of combat work, the X-59 guided aircraft missile was destroyed in Poltava region and 13 of 19 Shahed drones were destroyed within Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhia and Donetsk regions. Some of the six unhit enemy UAVs did not reach their targets. Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups and electronic warfare systems of the Ukrainian Defense Forces have been involved in repelling the air attack. Ambassadors of the European Union have agreed on the 13th package of sanctions against Russia; it will be officially approved on February 24, the Belgian Presidency of the EU Council said. "EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. This package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. It will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved for the 24 February," according to a statement published in X social network on Wednesday. The European Union's High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, said on X social media: "We have a deal on the 13th package! We are adding almost 200 persons and entities to our package of designations bringing over EU listings to over 2000. With this package, we are taking more action against entities involved in circumvention, the defence and military sectors." The first four Ukrainian pilots plan to complete training on F-16 fighter jets by the summer, CNN said, citing data from the Arizona National Guard. It is noted that the pilots began training in the middle of October with the 162nd Fighter Wing in Tucson, Arizona. The Pentagon said the training process will take several months. A second group of another four pilots began training in January, while a third group of four pilots is currently going through English-language training required for a fourth pilot to fly, according to Captain Erin Hannigan, a spokeswoman for the Arizona National Guard. All of the pilots are expected to complete training between May and August, although the exact timeline depends on the progress of the program. Last summer, a coalition of countries led by Denmark began training Ukrainian pilots on American aircraft. The Netherlands, Denmark and Norway have pledged to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets following a training program. The United States has also pledged to approve the transfer of aircraft immediately upon completion of training. Akzo Nobel (OTCMKTS:AKZOD Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week low during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $24.37 and last traded at $24.53, with a volume of 56162 shares. The stock had previously closed at $24.79. Akzo Nobel Price Performance The company has a quick ratio of 1.28, a current ratio of 1.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The stock has a market capitalization of $16.75 billion, a PE ratio of 15.69, a PEG ratio of 8.70 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a 50-day moving average of $25.95 and a 200 day moving average of $25.36. Akzo Nobel Company Profile (Get Free Report) Akzo Nobel N.V. operates as a paints and coatings company in the Netherlands and internationally. The company operates through Decorative Paints and Performance Coatings segments. It provides decorative paints, including paints, lacquers, and varnishes; mixing machines, color concepts, and training courses for the building and renovation industry; and specialty coatings for metal, wood, and other building materials. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Akzo Nobel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Akzo Nobel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CTT Correios De Portugal, S.A. (OTCMKTS:CTTPY Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $8.02 and last traded at $8.02, with a volume of 0 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $8.02. CTT Correios De Portugal Price Performance The companys 50 day moving average is $7.48 and its 200 day moving average is $7.37. About CTT Correios De Portugal (Get Free Report) CTT Correios De Portugal, SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides postal and financial services worldwide. It operates through Mail, Express & Parcels, Financial Services & Retail, and Bank segments. The company offers courier and urgent mail transport services; postal financial services; and banking services. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for CTT - Correios De Portugal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CTT - Correios De Portugal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. First BanCorp. (NYSE:FBP Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, February 8th, Zacks reports. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of 0.16 per share by the bank on Friday, March 8th. This represents a $0.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.85%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. This is an increase from First BanCorp.s previous quarterly dividend of $0.14. First BanCorp. has raised its dividend by an average of 41.0% annually over the last three years and has increased its dividend every year for the last 3 years. First BanCorp. has a dividend payout ratio of 30.6% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities analysts expect First BanCorp. to earn $1.84 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.56 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 30.4%. Get First BanCorp. alerts: First BanCorp. Stock Performance FBP stock opened at $16.64 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a current ratio of 0.76. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.79, a PEG ratio of 1.47 and a beta of 1.17. First BanCorp. has a 1 year low of $10.18 and a 1 year high of $17.44. The stocks fifty day moving average is $16.42 and its two-hundred day moving average is $14.98. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades First BanCorp. ( NYSE:FBP Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The bank reported $0.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.35 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $299.09 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $227.75 million. First BanCorp. had a return on equity of 21.62% and a net margin of 26.19%. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.40 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that First BanCorp. will post 1.62 EPS for the current year. A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on FBP shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their price objective on shares of First BanCorp. from $18.50 to $19.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on shares of First BanCorp. from $12.50 to $13.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 24th. View Our Latest Research Report on First BanCorp. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, CEO Aurelio Aleman sold 50,000 shares of First BanCorp. stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.79, for a total value of $789,500.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 1,176,325 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $18,574,171.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, EVP Nayda Rivera sold 15,000 shares of First BanCorp. stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.76, for a total transaction of $236,400.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 261,910 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,127,701.60. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Aurelio Aleman sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.79, for a total value of $789,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 1,176,325 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,574,171.75. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 197,033 shares of company stock worth $3,206,679. 2.40% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On First BanCorp. Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of First BanCorp. by 2.3% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 24,643,742 shares of the banks stock worth $323,327,000 after buying an additional 544,469 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its holdings in shares of First BanCorp. by 8.7% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 13,679,620 shares of the banks stock worth $179,477,000 after buying an additional 1,097,862 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of First BanCorp. by 1.6% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,497,173 shares of the banks stock worth $42,735,000 after buying an additional 54,223 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of First BanCorp. by 12.7% during the third quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,410,008 shares of the banks stock worth $45,899,000 after buying an additional 383,620 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of First BanCorp. by 12.7% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,328,437 shares of the banks stock worth $30,549,000 after buying an additional 261,516 shares during the last quarter. 91.80% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. First BanCorp. Company Profile (Get Free Report) First BanCorp. operates as a bank holding company for FirstBank Puerto Rico that provides a range of financial products and services to consumers and commercial customers. The company operates through six segments: Commercial and Corporate Banking, Mortgage Banking, Consumer (Retail) Banking, Treasury and Investments, United States Operations, and Virgin Islands Operations. See Also Receive News & Ratings for First BanCorp. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First BanCorp. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF (NYSEARCA:FLBR Get Free Report) traded up 1.4% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $20.20 and last traded at $20.20. 36,063 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 42% from the average session volume of 62,167 shares. The stock had previously closed at $19.92. Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF Trading Up 1.4 % The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $20.23 and a 200 day simple moving average of $19.38. The firm has a market cap of $129.28 million, a PE ratio of 5.54 and a beta of 0.98. Get Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF alerts: Institutional Investors Weigh In On Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of FLBR. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its position in shares of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF by 144.4% during the 1st quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 1,056 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 624 shares in the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its holdings in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF by 2.0% in the 2nd quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 46,999 shares of the companys stock valued at $908,000 after buying an additional 915 shares during the period. UBS Group AG lifted its holdings in shares of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF by 48.6% in the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 3,058 shares of the companys stock worth $56,000 after acquiring an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF during the second quarter worth $27,000. Finally, Baldwin Brothers LLC MA acquired a new position in Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $37,000. About Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF The Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF (FLBR) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the FTSE Brazil RIC Capped index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index of Brazilian large- and mid-cap stocks. FLBR was launched on Nov 3, 2017 and is managed by Franklin Templeton. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Franklin FTSE Brazil ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HII Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Wednesday, February 7th, Zacks reports. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a dividend of 1.30 per share by the aerospace company on Friday, March 8th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.83%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. Huntington Ingalls Industries has raised its dividend by an average of 5.9% per year over the last three years and has raised its dividend annually for the last 12 consecutive years. Huntington Ingalls Industries has a payout ratio of 27.2% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Huntington Ingalls Industries to earn $18.92 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $5.20 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 27.5%. Get Huntington Ingalls Industries alerts: Huntington Ingalls Industries Trading Down 0.1 % Shares of HII stock opened at $284.80 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. The stock has a market cap of $11.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.67 and a beta of 0.58. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $261.58 and a 200 day simple moving average of $236.28. Huntington Ingalls Industries has a 1 year low of $188.51 and a 1 year high of $288.00. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Huntington Ingalls Industries ( NYSE:HII Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The aerospace company reported $6.90 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.27 by $2.63. Huntington Ingalls Industries had a return on equity of 18.12% and a net margin of 5.95%. The business had revenue of $3.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.78 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $3.07 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 13.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts predict that Huntington Ingalls Industries will post 16.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. HII has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. StockNews.com upgraded Huntington Ingalls Industries from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 15th. Barclays upped their target price on Huntington Ingalls Industries from $280.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries from $257.00 to $288.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Huntington Ingalls Industries presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $265.00. Read Our Latest Report on Huntington Ingalls Industries Insider Activity at Huntington Ingalls Industries In related news, VP Jennifer R. Boykin sold 2,176 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $272.31, for a total value of $592,546.56. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 6,877 shares in the company, valued at $1,872,675.87. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Huntington Ingalls Industries news, VP Jennifer R. Boykin sold 2,176 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $272.31, for a total transaction of $592,546.56. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 6,877 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,872,675.87. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, VP D R. Wyatt sold 900 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $263.69, for a total value of $237,321.00. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 19,100 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,036,479. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.30% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Huntington Ingalls Industries Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Harbour Investments Inc. boosted its position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 505.6% during the 4th quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 109 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 91 shares in the last quarter. Almanack Investment Partners LLC. bought a new position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries during the 3rd quarter worth about $42,000. Sunbelt Securities Inc. bought a new position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries during the 1st quarter worth about $54,000. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries during the 1st quarter worth about $60,000. Finally, UniSuper Management Pty Ltd bought a new position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries during the 2nd quarter worth about $68,000. Institutional investors own 89.18% of the companys stock. Huntington Ingalls Industries Company Profile (Get Free Report) Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc engages in designing, building, overhauling, and repairing military ships in the United States. It operates through three segments: Ingalls, Newport News, and Mission Technologies. The company is involved in the design and construction of non-nuclear ships comprising amphibious assault ships; expeditionary warfare ships; surface combatants; and national security cutters for the U.S. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Huntington Ingalls Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Huntington Ingalls Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Zelenskyy on conference call reviews situation with blocking of Polish border: Our next steps to be very soon President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conference call on Wednesday with members of the government and heads of ministries, the key topic of which was the situation with the blockade of Polish farmers on the Polish-Ukrainian border. "Held a conference call. Today, in addition to daily topics, there is a blockade on the Polish border. With officials Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, Ministers Dmytro Kuleba, Oleksandr Kubrakov, Mykola Solsky we analyzed the situation in detail and determined our next steps. They will be very quickly," the president said in Telegram channel. Zelenskyy said trade liberalization with the European Union must continue. "And I am grateful to the clear position of the European Commission. Our unity must also be strong for the sake of common security and the security of all countries threatened by Russian aggression. Situational interests have no right to shake it," he said. Also during the selector meeting, the head of state heard a detailed report from Defense Minister Rustem Umerov on the supply of ammunition, weapons, electronic warfare systems, drones to the front and a report from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky on the situation in each area. In addition, the president was presented with a report from the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense and the Foreign Intelligence Service. Separately, the selector participants reviewed the situation with eliminating the consequences of Russian strikes in the regions, helping people and the further development of multi-level protection of critical facilities in the front-line and border areas. Samsara Inc. (NYSE:IOT Get Free Report) insider Adam Eltoukhy sold 9,344 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.75, for a total transaction of $324,704.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 431,439 shares of the companys stock, valued at $14,992,505.25. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Adam Eltoukhy also recently made the following trade(s): Get Samsara alerts: On Tuesday, January 16th, Adam Eltoukhy sold 9,344 shares of Samsara stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $33.84, for a total transaction of $316,200.96. On Tuesday, December 19th, Adam Eltoukhy sold 9,628 shares of Samsara stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.23, for a total transaction of $329,566.44. Samsara Stock Performance NYSE:IOT traded down $1.50 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $32.94. 3,251,254 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,848,934. The company has a fifty day moving average of $33.02 and a 200 day moving average of $28.65. Samsara Inc. has a 12 month low of $15.55 and a 12 month high of $36.91. The stock has a market capitalization of $17.79 billion, a P/E ratio of -78.43 and a beta of 1.55. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Samsara ( NYSE:IOT Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 30th. The company reported ($0.08) EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.10) by $0.02. Samsara had a negative net margin of 26.77% and a negative return on equity of 18.88%. The company had revenue of $237.53 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $225.36 million. On average, analysts predict that Samsara Inc. will post -0.39 EPS for the current fiscal year. Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. GLOBALT Investments LLC GA purchased a new stake in shares of Samsara in the 4th quarter worth about $2,184,000. Readystate Asset Management LP purchased a new stake in shares of Samsara in the 4th quarter worth about $998,000. Quarry LP purchased a new stake in shares of Samsara in the 4th quarter worth about $37,000. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV purchased a new stake in shares of Samsara in the 4th quarter worth about $233,000. Finally, Employees Retirement System of Texas purchased a new stake in shares of Samsara in the 4th quarter worth about $402,000. 52.47% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research firms have recently commented on IOT. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price objective on shares of Samsara from $31.00 to $35.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 1st. StockNews.com raised shares of Samsara from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, January 13th. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of Samsara from $28.00 to $32.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on shares of Samsara from $27.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their target price on shares of Samsara from $25.00 to $31.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $31.56. View Our Latest Research Report on Samsara Samsara Company Profile (Get Free Report) Samsara Inc provides solutions that connect physical operations data to its Connected Operations Cloud in the United States and internationally. The company's Connected Operations Cloud includes Data Platform, which ingests, aggregates, and enriches data from its IoT devices and has embedded capabilities for AI, workflows and analytics, alerts, API connections, and data security and privacy; and applications for video-based safety, vehicle telematics, apps and driver workflows, equipment monitoring, and site visibility. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Samsara Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Samsara and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust (NYSE:PMM Get Free Report) announced a dividend on Tuesday, February 20th, investing.com reports. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of 0.0238 per share on Friday, March 1st. This represents a dividend yield of 4.63%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust has decreased its dividend by an average of 6.6% annually over the last three years. Get Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust alerts: Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust Stock Up 0.5 % Shares of PMM traded up $0.03 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $6.20. 75,849 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 114,975. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $6.14 and a two-hundred day moving average of $5.78. Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust has a 52-week low of $5.00 and a 52-week high of $7.27. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust About Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in PMM. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 195,046 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,379,000 after buying an additional 3,621 shares during the period. HighTower Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust during the 1st quarter worth approximately $78,000. Doyle Wealth Management purchased a new stake in Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust during the first quarter valued at approximately $85,000. Rivernorth Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust during the 1st quarter valued at about $1,287,000. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted its stake in Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust by 7.0% in the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 87,344 shares of the companys stock worth $617,000 after purchasing an additional 5,683 shares in the last quarter. 12.12% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. (Get Free Report) Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust is a close-ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by Putnam Investment Management LLC. It is co-managed by Putnam Investments Limited. The fund invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. It primarily invests in a diversified portfolio of tax-exempt municipal securities, including high-yield securities that are rated below investment grade. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Putnam Managed Municipal Income Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Putnam Premier Income Trust (NYSE:PPT Get Free Report) announced a dividend on Tuesday, February 20th, investing.com reports. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a dividend of 0.026 per share by the investment management company on Friday, March 1st. This represents a dividend yield of 8.62%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. Putnam Premier Income Trust has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 8.8% per year over the last three years. Get Putnam Premier Income Trust alerts: Putnam Premier Income Trust Price Performance PPT traded up $0.02 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $3.64. 98,212 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 136,933. The companys fifty day moving average price is $3.63 and its 200-day moving average price is $3.51. Putnam Premier Income Trust has a 52-week low of $3.25 and a 52-week high of $3.73. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Putnam Premier Income Trust Company Profile Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Invesco Ltd. increased its position in shares of Putnam Premier Income Trust by 19.0% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,273,011 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $5,079,000 after acquiring an additional 203,297 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its position in Putnam Premier Income Trust by 56.5% during the first quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 445,454 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,777,000 after purchasing an additional 160,869 shares during the period. Creative Planning increased its position in shares of Putnam Premier Income Trust by 864.9% in the 3rd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 166,693 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $558,000 after purchasing an additional 149,417 shares during the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Putnam Premier Income Trust by 769.6% in the 4th quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 99,762 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $356,000 after buying an additional 88,290 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers grew its position in shares of Putnam Premier Income Trust by 64.8% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 113,957 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $406,000 after buying an additional 44,802 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 31.31% of the companys stock. (Get Free Report) Putnam Premier Income Trust is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by Putnam Investment Management, LLC. The fund is co-managed by Putnam Investments Limited. It invests in the public fixed income markets across the globe. The fund primarily invests in U.S. high-grade and high-yield bonds with an average credit quality of BBB by S&P Corporation. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Putnam Premier Income Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Putnam Premier Income Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK Today, the ground part of the enemy group, which is located on the territory of Ukraine, is about 470,000 military personnel, and on the eve of the "elections" the group of troops covering the state border in Belgorod, Kursk and Bryansk regions of Russia was strengthened, Deputy chief of the Main Intelligence Agency of Ukraine of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Major General Vadym Skibitsky said. "If we talk about what has changed during this time, this is the size of the group deployed on our territory. Now the ground component, the ground part of the group, which is located on the territory of Ukraine, is about 470,000 military personnel. And this is only the ground component, I don't include aviation, we don't include the navy, which is also involved in conducting operations and launching strikes," Skibitsky said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine. In addition, the major general noted, a new component has appeared, which was not present at the beginning of the aggression (it was represented only partially, by battalions), - a grouping of troops of the Russian Guard. "Today, a group of forces of the Russian Guard has been deployed in the temporarily occupied territories. This is almost 33,000 military personnel. These are the people who ensure the activities of the occupation authorities, the protection of strategic objects and, if necessary, can carry out defense tasks specifically in the temporarily occupied territories," Skibitsky said. According to him, another change that has occurred in two years is that the so-called group additionally appeared. They are deployed on the territory of three regions of Russia, which directly border on Ukraine - Belgorod, Kursk, Bryansk. The major general said this is due to the Russians' fear that "we will be more active, we will carry out appropriate actions on the Russian territory." "Perhaps this is necessary: to transfer the war to Russian territory. There they concentrated a group of about 30,000 military personnel. Recently, they were also reinforced by units of the 116th brigade of the Russian Guard, which was transferred. Three battalions were transferred from our Mariupol to the territory Belgorod region. As they also admit, in order to ensure the security and holding of elections of the eternally living Putin. These are the changes that mainly occurred in the number of the ground component," the intelligence service said. Skibitsky also noted an important change in two years is the isolation of the Black Sea Fleet, and all the main enemy warships are located in Novorossiysk. "They can only enter Sevastopol to replenish ammunition, reload, or, if necessary, when they are on combat duty. And so, all the activity of the Black Sea Fleet is off the coast of Crimea or in the eastern part of the Black Sea. Today we have fully ensured the ability to control in terms of fire, the ability to strike at the Black Sea Fleet if it enters the northwestern part. And this gave us the opportunity to restore the operation of the sea corridor," he said. In addition, in two years, many territories were liberated, which Russia had been counting on from the very beginning of the aggression, the major general said. And most importantly, as Skibitsky noted, the strategic goal of the Russian Federation, and especially the complete occupation of Ukraine, has not been achieved. "We completely violated the plans that Russia had in February 2022," he said. Mehul R Thakkar is Special Correspondent, Moneycontrol, Indias leading financial news platform, based in Mumbai where he is focussed on covering the real estate sector. Siddharth Upasani is a Special Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He has been covering the Indian economy, economic data, and monetary and fiscal policies for nine years. He tweets at @SiddharthUbiWan. Contact: siddharth.upasani@nw18.com 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 Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that Russian troops allegedly captured Krynky on the left bank of Kherson region, however, visual data from open sources, as well as Ukrainian and Russian reports indicate that the Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to maintain a limited bridgehead in this zone, according to an October 20 Institute for the Study of War (ISW) report. "Shoigu claimed during his briefing with Putin that Russian forces cleared Krynky, although Putin claimed that Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) and 'Dnepr' Grouping of Forces Commander Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky told him that a handful of Ukrainian personnel remained in the settlement," the ISW said on its website. It is indicated that the head of the Russian Ministry of Defense refuted Teplinsky's statement and presented Russian attempts to eliminate the bridgehead as a successfully completed operation, and also praised unspecified airborne units and the 810th Marine Infantry Brigade for their role in the operation, which is typical praise from the Kremlin after Russia captured a tactical target. ISW says that at the time of publication, there had been no visual evidence of recent noticeable Russian troop advances in or near the limited Ukrainian bridgehead at Krynky. At the same time, it is indicated that the Kremlin probably prematurely announced the alleged capture of Krynky in order to enhance the desired information effect in anticipation of the presidential elections in March 2024. "The Kremlin may increasingly claim battlefield victories in Ukraine without full confidence in Russian tactical and operational success in order to support information efforts that both glorify Putin and demoralize Ukraine, although such growing rhetorical confidence may create expectations in the Russian information space that the Russian military will not be able to justify it," ISW said. At the same time, geolocation footage published on February 20 shows that Russian forces have recently advanced to the eastern outskirts of Lastochkine (Donetsk region), northwest of Avdiivka. Souptik Datta Reports real estate, infra and city in Bengaluru. Btw, curiosity never kills the cat. Number of casualties after Russia's attack on Kramatorsk rises to eight people local authorities Eight people were injured as a result of Russia's missile strike against Kramatorsk on February 20, Head of Kramatorsk Town Military Administration Oleksandr Honcharenko has said. "The search and rescue operations continue at the scene of yesterday's Russian attack on Kramatorsk. Eight people sustained injuries six women and two men," he said on Facebook on Wednesday. Rescue workers currently continue to search the rubble as there might be one more person there. Earlier, seven casualties were reported as a result of the enemy attack. News Highlights: The Cabinet has given the green light to amendments in the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy concerning the space sector. The Cabinet has also given its nod for an increase in the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane payable by sugar mills to sugarcane farmers. Von der Leyen: Framework for negotiations on Ukraine's accession to EU not to be ready before European elections European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says that the framework for negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the European Union will not be ready before the European elections, which will be held from June 6 to June 9. She said this at a press conference in Brussels on Wednesday. The President of the European Commission said that excellent progress with regard to the screening process is being made. She also added that a negotiating framework is being worked out. According to her, they won't be ready before the European elections, but after them as the development of different negotiating positions is ongoing and it will take time. According to her forecasts, they will be ready in early summer. Earlier, it was expected that the negotiating framework would be approved at the Council meeting in March. 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 Swapnil Tripathi is a lawyer and tweets at S_Tripathi07. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of the publication. Rakesh Dixit is a senior journalist based in Bhopal. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that he instructed the government to come to the border with Poland in the near future and called on the Polish Prime Minister to organize negotiations there. I have instructed our government to come to the border between our countries in the near future, by February 24. The Prime Minister of Ukraine, our entire government, from logistics to the agricultural sector, and, of course, the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, as this blockade on the border, unfortunately, increases the threat to the weapons supply to our guys at the front, Zelenskyy said in his video address on Wednesday. And I urge you, Donald, Mr. Prime Minister, to come to the border as well. And Andrzej, Mr. President, I urge you to support this dialogue. This is national security. We must not delay this. The next few days give us a chance to do so, he said. According to Zelenskyy, he is ready to come to the border with our government. He also addressed the European Commission now: We must preserve unity in Europe. This is the EU's fundamental interest. That is why Ukraine urges the European Commission to have its representative involved in this meeting. The President noted that the cost of Ukrainian grain is special to us. Just like that of any other product generated by our economy at this time. As it is a wartime economy. These are the enterprises whose functioning enables Ukraine to provide for the frontline and preserve our independence our freedom, and thus your freedom. Ukraine will always remember Poland's choice made on February 24 in response to the Russian invasion. It was a choice in favor of joint strength. In favor of winning the battles on the Dnipro together so that we would not have to look for ways to perform a new miracle on the Vistula, he noted. I think everyone will understand that Ukraine cannot accept what is happening on the border between our countries. And even more so the appearance of outright pro-Putin slogans there. This is wrong. This is anti-solidarity, Zelenskyy said. According to him, it's evident to all that politics significantly outweigh economics in this situation. And it is only Moscow that is rejoicing now. When our Ukrainian drivers are blocked on Polish roads, it means that politicians should intensify a real dialogue. At all levels. And ensure the result, the President stated. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered search startup Perplexity AI has more than a million users in India, co-founder Aravind Srinivas told Moneycontrol, reflecting the growing popularity of the service that has become the talk of the town in Silicon Valley in recent weeks. "We want that number to expand to like 10-100X more because the Indian population is so big," Srinivas said in an interview. The answer engine, which aims to take on tech giants such as Google and Microsoft, currently has over 10 million active users across the world. Srinivas said that the awareness of the Indian public to generative AI is quite good. "A lot of people are aware of ChatGPT and large language models...They are already using these technologies in creative ways," he said. Watch the full interview "So, I think we are going to see a lot more faster movement in the AI revolution in India compared to the previous web and mobile revolution, where we were a little behind the rest of the world," Srinivas said. Founded in August 2022 by Srinivas, Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho and Andy Konwinski, Perplexity AI launched its answer engine in December 2022. The company recently raised $73.6 million in Series B funding at a valuation of $520 million from marquee investors, a list that includes Nvidia, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Institutional Venture Partners (IVP), and Shopify CEO Tobi Lutke. Also read: Google created a terrible internet; we can create a win-win solution: Perplexity AIs Aravind Srinivas Google's AI head Jeff Dean and former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki have also backed the company in a personal capacity. This investment brings the total funds raised by Perplexity AI to about $100 million to date. Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity AI offers a chatbot-like interface that allows users to ask any question and receive concise answers, backed up by a curated set of sources that are mentioned as citations. People can then ask follow-up questions or head over to the articles mentioned to dive deeper into that specific topic. To be sure, Google introduced its generative AI search experience as an opt-in experiment to users in select countries including India last year. The feature provides quick summaries for user queries on top of search results. The search giant also rebranded its AI chatbot Bard as Gemini along with launching a paid tier and mobile apps. The move comes as Google parent Alphabet positions Gemini as the main brand for all its existing and future AI efforts. That said, what's particularly interesting about Perplexity AIs answer engine is that people can narrow down their sources for their queries to specific ones such as academic journals, YouTube videos, Reddit posts or computational knowledge engine Wolfram Alpha. Growing its India base To accelerate the growth of Perplexity AI in the country, Srinivas said they need to further improve support for Indian languages and make the app better for international markets. For instance, he mentioned that when users ask questions in their native language, the answer engine sometimes responds back in English language. "We need to address these problemsOnce we do that, I believe that we can certainly command a bigger user base in India. India is the next generation economy" he said. In the future, Perplexity AI will also look at lowering its subscription price to a rate which will be better suited for the India market. Although it is unlikely to be very cheap, Srinivas said. "India's GDP is growing so much that I believe the optimal pricing is something we will arrive in some time to come. I don't think people are going to be optimising for prices, like how they thought about Netflix or Spotify, because people are going to think that this tool makes me more productive at work, let me use it. Hence, there will be people who would be willing to pay up for the value this product adds to them" he said. Perplexity AI currently charges $20 per month for a premium subscription with advanced capabilities, such as the ability to upload images and documents; the option to choose between AI models such as OpenAI's GPT-4, Anthropic's Claude 2.1, or the company's own experimental AI models; and $5 of API credits to use every month. The subscription also allows people to access an interactive search companion Copilot (not to be confused with Microsoft's Copilot), which offers a more personalised search experience by taking user's preferences into account and fine-tuning its answers based on their needs. Collaborating with Indian LLMs Going forward, Perplexity AI also plans to collaborate with Indian startups such as the Lightspeed and Peak XV-backed Sarvam AI that are developing large language models (LLMs), which would better suit the country's diverse linguistic culture. Also read: India's LLM race is heating up! Here's a look at who's building what "I certainly hope that the models you train specifically for India ends up being a better model to use than the generic model like GPT or Claude or the models that we build. So it makes a lot of sense to just use that as a default experience for Indian apps" Srinivas said. "I'm excited to be a customer of LLMs built by Sarvam or other Indian language model companies. When they're ready for go-to-market, we would love to collaborate with them and work on, because we are a big platform for them too. If we use their models, we have a user base that they can already bootstrap from, so we are excited to collaborate with them" he added. Srinivas also said that venture capitalists (VCs) need to take bold bets on Indian founders who are trying to disrupt the existing incumbents. Srinivas mentioned that there are two categories of companies that investors can back. One is people who are using existing APIs to build great product experiences for end users. "They don't need to worry too much about having your moats. Just get the user base in India and create the economy at scale for that user base. And then figure out how to optimize costs and build your own infrastructure or partner with other Indian infrastructure companies" he said. The second set are the infrastructure builders, those that are building their own LLMs, their own hardware, inference chips, training chips, and data centers among others, which is a longer-term commitment. "People should take bold bets on both of them, and the government should also be involved if possible. That's how you will see a lot more activity, like founders who will prefer to stay back (in India) and build companies for Indian users and the Indian ecosystem" he said. The head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), Oleksandr Klymenko, believes that the prosecution has a high chance of completing the investigation into the suspicion of businessman Ihor Kolomoisky of embezzling UAH 9.2 billion of PrivatBank funds. "With regard to the PrivatBank case and this episode, a certain part of the decisions that were made by the court of first instance and were supported by the appellate instance are currently being appealed," Klymenko said on Wednesday at a briefing in Kyiv. At the same time, as the SAPO head emphasized, when the Supreme Court makes its final decisions, the anti-corruption authorities will be able to draw "conclusions on this case, whether it will have a future." "In my opinion, we have a very high chance that this case will be sent to court," the SAPO head added. Earlier it was reported that Kolomoisky is suspected of fraud and embezzlement of PrivatBank funds. The Security Service of Ukraine announced suspicion against him under two articles of the Criminal Code: Article 190 (fraud), Article 209 (legalization (laundering) of property obtained by criminal means). Law enforcement officers established that the businessman, during 2013-2020, legalized more than UAH 500 million by transferring it abroad. At the same time, he used the infrastructure of controlled banking institutions. Ambassadors of the G7 states warned the Ukrainian authorities against approving the reform of the Economic Security Bureau (ESB), which does not comply with the requirements of European integration and the program of the International Monetary Fund, European Pravda reports. "The letter, which is at the disposal of European Pravda, is written to Chairman of Parliament Ruslan Stefanchuk, and is also addressed to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak and several other officials and parliamentarians from the law enforcement and financial committees," European Pravda said in a statement on Wednesday. The G7 ambassadors note that the reform of the Economic Security Bureau should contain four key provisions: 1. An open and transparent competition for the position of ESB new director; 2. Independent audit of the ESB activities one and three years after the appointment of a new director; 3. The possibility of dismissing the ESB director based on audit findings and the impossibility of dismissal by the government decision on the basis of "unsatisfactory results" of work; 4. Recertification of all ESB employees and appointment of new ones according to a transparent procedure regulated by law. "We emphasize that the adoption of any bill without these elements will affect the fiscal stability of the country and the fulfillment of the conditions of the IMF program and European integration. In addition, we strongly recommend not to include in the ESB law any provisions that undermine the independence of other institutions," the letter from ambassadors says. As noted in the European Pravda report, "the appeal to key Ukrainian officials appeared on the same day when two specialized committees of the Verkhovna Rada law enforcement and financial approved the government's draft law on the reform of the Economic Security Bureau." This project has previously been criticized by business associations and anti-corruption activists due to the fact that it does not contain adequate mechanisms for re-certification and dismissal of dishonest Bureau employees. "The government reform of the Economic Security Bureau is associated with Deputy Head of the President's Office Oleh Tatarov, who is called the informal 'curator' of the law enforcement vertical in Ukraine," the European Pravda report states. It is noted that last year, ambassadors of the G7 countries also expressed concern about the government's intentions to appoint members of the Accounting Chamber before completing its reform. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Servant of the People faction discussed the situation at the front and in the economy, as well as partners' assistance, Head of the Servant of the People faction David Arakhamia has said. "We raised the most important issues for our Victory the front, the economy, assistance from our partners, preservation of unity in the society. And, hence, the tasks for the parliament and MPs in these directions. We have a lot of work to do. However, from the very beginning of the full-scale invasion, the parliament showed its capability of coping with the most complicated tasks. We will keep up with this pace until Victory," he said on the Telegram channel following the meeting with the head of state on Wednesday. According to Arakhamia, the purpose of the meeting is to synchronize "all our efforts and strengthen individual areas of work." He noted that before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, such "strategic sessions" were held every year. "This is normal practice for all big teams," he said. Arakhamia also said that "the meeting attracted a lot of media attention, since this is the first meeting in a large format since the beginning of the full-scale invasion." "But I want to refute all conspiracy theories in advance. It was planned at the end of last year, but the president's schedule allowed it to be carried out only now," Arakhamia said. Spokesperson for the Servant of the People faction Yulia Paliychuk told Interfax-Ukraine that Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk and his first deputy Oleksandr Korniyenko were present at the faction's meeting with Zelenskyy. Finance minister (FM) Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) on Wednesday which discussed the issues related to Indias macro financial stability and the preparedness to deal with them. The FSDC also discussed plans to formulate a strategy to simplify and digitalise the KYC (know-your-customer) process in the financial sector. Prescribing uniform KYC norms and inter-usability of KYC records across the financial sector are on the anvil, according to a finance Ministry statement. Besides, the meeting discussed ways to arrest the harmful effects of unauthorised lending through online apps and measures to curb their further spread. The issue of kickstarting fund-raising by social enterprises through social stock exchanges also figured at the meeting. The ongoing inter-regulatory issues were taken up to support GIFT IFSC in its strategic role to become one of the worlds premier international financial centres and perform its envisioned role of facilitating foreign capital and financial services for the domestic economy. The FSDC considered the domestic and global macro-financial situation and emphasised that the members need to maintain constant vigilance and continue their proactive efforts towards detecting emerging financial stability risks and taking the necessary measures to maintain the resilience of the financial sector. The FSDC members also decided to strengthen inter-regulatory coordination to further develop the financial sector so that it continues to provide the requisite financial resources for inclusive economic growth, the statement said. The FSDC also took note of the activities undertaken by the FSDC sub-committee chaired by the governor, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and the action taken by members on the previous decisions of the FSDC. The meeting was attended by minister of state for finance, Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad; Shaktikanta Das, governor, RBI and senior finance ministry officials. 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. On Wednesday, 1391 stocks advanced, 2451 declined and 100 remained unchanged, with an advance decline ratio of 0.56 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), indicating negative closing of stocks in broader markets. The trend of the major indices on Wednesdays trading is given in the table below. On NSE, 146 securities advanced and closed at a new 52-week high whereas nine securities sank to close at their new 52-week lows. In sectoral indices, Nifty PSU Bank, Nifty Metal and Nifty FMCG were among the biggest gainers. Nifty Media, Nifty Energy and Nifty IT were among the biggest losers. Transport Corporation of India (+0.08%) has incorporated wholly owned subsidiary (WOS) namely TCIL Middle East Logistics Services L.L.C. in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E). Tata Powers (-0.91%) wholly-owned subsidiary -- Tata Power Trading Company (TPTCL) has inked multi-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with BluSmart, Indias leading born-electric, full stack, vertically integrated eMobility ride hailing service and EV charging infrastructure network, to provide green power. Sterlite Technologies (STL) (+7.96%) has been selected as partner by Lumos to build a 100% fiber optic internet in the mid-Atlantic region. Kaveri Seed Company (-0.42%) has incorporated a 100% wholly owned subsidiary Company namely Kaveri Seed Company Bangladesh (KSCBPL). Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (-1.11%) has expanded its partnership with The Co-operative Group (Co-op), one of the worlds largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services, to adopt a cloud first strategy that will support the groups business growth. NTPCs (-2.91%) wholly-owned subsidiary -- NTPC Green Energy (NGEL) has signed land lease agreement with Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) for the development of an integrated green hydrogen hub near Pudimadaka village of Atchutapuram Mandal in Visakhapatnam district. Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services (Zaggle) (-3.01%) has entered into an agreement with Arcadis Consulting India. Zaggle would provide Arcadis Consulting the Zaggle Save proposition, a Benefits & Expense management platform. Tinna Rubber and Infrastructure (+0.34%) has commenced commercial production at the company's state of the art, fully automated manufacturing facility at Village Varle, Taluka Wada, District Palghar, Maharashtra. Ashok Leyland (-0.61%) has commenced the work to set up a new integrated commercial vehicle plant focused on green mobility in Uttar Pradesh, with the ground breaking ceremony. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (+0.41%) has entered into an agreement with Surgimatix, Inc to acquire 16.33% shares of Surgimatix, Inc. The cost of acquisition is around $3.05 million. Earnings ABB India(+10.64%): Net Sales was Rs2,757 crore in Q3FY24 up 14% YoY (Rs2,427 crore). Net Profit was Rs339 crore in Q3FY24 up 13% YoY (Rs305 crore). Data Infrastructure Trust: Net Sales was Rs3,589 crore in Q3FY24 up 31% YoY (Rs2,732 crore). Net Profit was Rs346 crore in Q3FY24 up 35% YoY (Rs257 crore). The top gainers and top losers of the major indices are given in the table below: The closing values of the major Asian indices are given in the table below: RBI (Reserve Bank of India) economists, in a report released on Tuesday, rejected the IMF (International Monetary Fund) view that Indias debt-GDP (gross domestic product) ratio has the potential of shooting past 100% if historical shocks materialise and, hence, the country needs to go cut government expenditure. In an article in the RBI bulletin, the economists, including RBI deputy governor Michael Patra said: Our simulations reveal that the general government debt-GDP ratio swerves below the projected path set out by the IMF in its latest Article IV consultation report for India. With recalibration of government expenditure, the general government debt-GDP ratio is projected to decline to 73.4% by 2030-31, around five percentage points lower than the IMFs projected trajectory of 78.2%, according to the article titled "The Shape of Growth Compatible Fiscal Consolidation." This is noteworthy as the debt-GDP ratio is projected to rise from 112.1% in 2023 to 116.3% in 2028 for advanced economies and from 68.3% to 78.1% for emerging and middle-income countries. It is in this context that we reject the IMFs contention that if historical shocks materialise, Indias general government debt would exceed 100 per cent of GDP in the medium-term and hence further fiscal tightening is needed, the RBI economists observe. Empirical findings show that medium-term complementarities between judicious fiscal consolidation and growth outweigh the short-run costs. Spending on social and physical infrastructure, climate mitigation, digitalisation and skilling the labour force can yield long-lasting growth dividends, the article points out. Using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model, we find that if government expenditure is directed towards the above-mentioned segments, the debt-GDP ratio of the general government can decline substantially to 73.4% of GDP by 2030-31, the article reads. The article also points out that the Interim Budget for 2024-25 places the gross fiscal deficit of the Union government at 5.1% of GDP in 2024-25, in line with the target of 4.5% of GDP by 2025-26. The impetus provided to capital expenditure in the post-pandemic period has been sustained by increasing its share to 3.4% of GDP, it added. 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 information that spread earlier that up to a thousand Ukrainian servicemen were captured in Avdiyivka is a Russian propaganda narrative, said Dmytro Likhovy, spokesperson of the Tavria operational and strategic group of troops. "We were unpleasantly surprised, to put it mildly, by this publication, because we gave our comment on this, which was justified, and it seemed that everything logically should fall into place. But, unfortunately, I do not know whether the authors of The New York Times deliberately spread the Russian propaganda narrative without any justification. The sources they refer to are absolutely untenable, because there are no such people and this is not a fact," Likhovy said on the telethon. He stressed that a number of Ukrainian servicemen who took part in the defense of Avdiyivka are indeed missing. "During the final stage of Avdiyivka defense operation, and I have repeatedly stressed that the Armed Forces of Ukraine did not hide this, a number of servicemen did not get in touch. (...) These statements by Russian propaganda about hundreds and thousands of prisoners are complete disinformation, which is not confirmed by anything. We say yes, there are prisoners, but their number is by no means hundreds. At the same time, we remember every soldier, and we will fight for his liberation," the spokesperson stressed. "Russia continues its aggression already in the information field. Having suffered significant losses in Avdiyivka operation, it now uses not only cannon fodder, bombs and shells, but also just banal fakes, which unfortunately are spread by some reputable world media," he added. Earlier, The New York Times said, citing its own sources, that between 850 and 1,000 soldiers were captured during the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Avdiyivka. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the defenders of the Ukrainian sky for the results of combat work, noting that protecting the sky and our frontline positions from Russian air and missile strikes is one of the main tasks this year. "Seven Russian combat Su-aircraft have been destroyed over a week. Thank you, our warriors, for your accuracy. And one of the main tasks of this year for our state is precisely the protection of the sky and our frontline positions from Russian air and missile strikes," he said in an evening video message on Wednesday. Zelenskyy also noted the second priority - "on neighborhood policy, on relations with partners in the European Union. The President stressed that "the Ukrainian principle is pragmatism. And in terms of security, we must do everything as pragmatically as possible so that both Ukraine and each of our partners become stronger, so that each of us has more opportunities to defend ourselves from Russian evil. We must also take a pragmatic approach to solving social and economic problems - without unnecessary politicization, without manipulation - manipulation of relations between states and peoples. The more pragmatic we are, everyone in Europe, the more our common values are protected, the stronger our independence is." "And, of course, our priority now directly concerns relations with Poland. Today I proposed to our partners in Poland to solve the existing problems on the border for the sake of common interests. Our government and all our institutions are ready for meetings and dialogue. I am ready to join these meetings. It is very important that the European Commission is also in dialogue. We all need a result. ... When Ukrainians and Poles or anyone else in our Europe does not find a common language with each other, only Moscow is happy about it," the President of Ukraine is convinced. "Third, we are preparing new security agreements with our partners. Very substantive. This is a new defense support for our soldiers, and very specific financial guarantees for our state," Zelenskyy said. "Of course, our warriors. Lastochkyne, Avdiyivka direction. Novomykhailivka, Maryinka direction. Synkivka, Kupyansk direction. Robotyne, Zaporizhia direction. There is the greatest activity of Russian assaults during these days. And the maximum important fortitude and bravery of our soldiers. Thanks to everyone who is in combat, at combat posts, on combat missions," Zelenskyy said. FILE PHOTO: EU flag and TikTok logo are seen in this illustration taken, June 2, 2023. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Visa is actively working on the next stage of development of the international payments system in Azerbaijan, Cristina Doros, Vice President and Regional Manager for Visa in Central Asia and Azerbaijan, told Trend in an exclusive interview. "The B2B Connect project has become significant for the country as it was the first launch in the regions of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. The experience of Kapital Bank, which launched the product first, turned out to be very interesting for the rest of the participants of the banking system in Azerbaijan. We have seven banks in Azerbaijan alone that have launched this platform, and more banks are working on it. Besides the existing payment solutions, we are actively working on the next stage of development of the international payment system," she said. According to Christina Doros, Visa has already implemented the first part - introducing the B2B Connect platform, which serves payments for legal entities, mainly for medium and large companies. "As a rule, companies make these payments for relatively large amounts. However, we understand that there is a huge need for international payments not only for legal entities but also for individuals. Individuals can also transfer money to friends, colleagues, acquaintances, children, and family abroad, as well as do business," she emphasized. Cristina Doros also noted that to make the solution for cross-border transfers comprehensive and complete, Visa is working on the implementation of the Visa Direct to Account (VDA) solution. "This is an opportunity to transfer funds to accounts abroad, even not necessarily to a card, but just to accounts. Visa provides a convenient, secure, and fast solution for almost any purpose of transferring money abroad. There is B2B Connect for legal entities, and for those who transfer from card to card, there is a Visa Direct platform, which allows you to make transfers to the card number. The third direction is transfer from card to accounts. The fourth direction - from cards to wallets - is also in development. All these services together create a full-fledged platform of international transfers, satisfying all needs," she concluded. According to Cristina Doros, Visa's relations with Azerbaijani banks are strengthening and expanding. "Of course, banks are our main partners in the development and implementation of innovative solutions. We cooperate with all banks in Azerbaijan and we are very happy that year by year this cooperation only strengthens and expands. Earlier, perhaps, we focused on narrower areas - cards, card products, technologies - but now Visa cooperates with banks much wider, in different areas. This includes marketing, consulting services, and what we call "managed services" - work that we do practically on behalf of the bank. We develop a project together, and then the Visa team implements a certain part of the work for a particular partner. The cooperation will only expand, and we are sincerely happy about it," she said. Cristina Doros also noted that in 2013-2014 Visa first implemented contactless payments in the country. "During those years it concerned acquiring, and then it expanded to issuing. Now the terminals can accept contactless payments and in turn, cards can also be used to pay contactless. Later, in 2019, we jointly with the International Bank of Azerbaijan for the first time introduced tokenization technology - Visa Token Service. This led to the appearance of something we call a banking or issuer wallet. Thus, for the first time in Azerbaijan, it was possible to link a card to a mobile application on a smartphone and pay for purchases with it. Kapital Bank later joined this service, followed by other banks. Tokenization created the foundation for the emergence of Apple Pay and Google Pay in the country, which works on its basis. These technologies are now widely used in Azerbaijan and are becoming more and more popular because it has become faster, more convenient, and safer to pay for purchases with them. At present it is possible to link Visa card to Apple Pay in 14 banks, and Google Pay - in 15 banks," she said. According to Cristina Doros, another interesting area of cooperation is so-called 'non-card' payments. "I am truly proud that Azerbaijan Kapital Bank has become the first bank in the vast region of Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, comprising 88 countries, to implement B2B Connect. This is a non-card solution that allows companies serviced by the bank and engaged in active export-import activities to make international cross-border payments conveniently, securely, and in a controlled manner. Those who work in this field know how difficult it can sometimes be to track down which correspondent bank your payment is with. B2B Connect allows the sender to always know where his money is. This solution is now implemented in seven banks in Azerbaijan," she said. Continuing the theme of cooperation with banks, the Vice President noted several socially significant projects. "For example, transportation solutions, such as the possibility to pay for transportation fares contactless with a regular bank card, without the need to purchase additional transportation cards and replenish them. We have implemented a contactless fare payment system on the Baku-Sumgayit branch line in partnership with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), the International Bank of Azerbaijan (ABB), and Azerbaijan Railways. Validators (terminals for accepting card payments) have been installed at 14 stations. Now it is possible to pay fares by contactless card when traveling on the Baku-Sumgayit ring and back. We see how people who may not have previously used cards for payment and preferred cash, after the first attempt to pay for transportation by card understand how easy it is, and discover the world of digital payments," she commented. Cristina Doros also emphasized that many passengers then start using digital payment means in other areas of life, for example, in supermarkets, gas stations, pharmacies, and so on. "Thus, transportation is becoming a significant area of digital payments development, and we are sincerely proud of the work done. We introduced a new technology of transportation payments in our region, namely in Baku, on the railroads. We call it MTT - Mobility & Transit Transaction. Now we have introduced this system on the railroads, but our goal is to continue integrating different modes of transportation. The technology allows us to combine [subway, bus, and rail] payments for the whole day into one transaction, taking into account the fares of each mode of transportation and their fare schedules. It works efficiently. Different fares depend on zones and also on your status - whether you are a pensioner, a student, or a schoolchild. The system can account for all these factors. And this has also been introduced in Baku and our region," she concluded. According to Doros, the technology rolled out by Visa on railway routes is just the beginning in terms of transportation system development. "We are open to discussing the possibilities of implementing contactless payment on the Baku metro, ground transportation, and so on. Our Mobility & Transit Transaction (MTT) technology allows consolidating all payments in public transportation," she said. "This is a significant prospect - for example, parking payment can also be integrated here. These issues are part of the process aimed at developing a smart city." Doros said that the regions of Central Asia and Azerbaijan are in the range of champions in terms of innovation development. The Vice President also mentioned that the Visa team is actively working to ensure the continuous advancement of digital payments, fostering innovation and technology in both Central Asia and Azerbaijan. "Digitalization development varies across countries in our region due to diverse factors. Nevertheless, our region is rightly acknowledged as a leader in innovation and development. Virtually every payment technology is present in Central Asia and Azerbaijan. A notable example is the introduction of the Request to Pay service in Kazakhstan using Visa Direct. This marked the world's first implementation of such a service, enabling users to request money transfers from other bank clients or split bills," she said. "As an illustration, I could generate a request through the mobile application, prompting you with a message like, 'Cristina is requesting a $10 transfer. Confirm: Yes or No?' Upon selecting 'Yes, transfer,' a Visa Direct-based transaction is initiated, transferring the money from your account to mine," Doros added. According to her perspective, this represents a fascinating application of technology, particularly in the context of individual transfers, such as dividing shared expenses among friends. The speaker also highlights that the company provides solutions tailored for private entrepreneurs. "Taking a larger view of this technology, its applicability can extend to the customer-to-business (C2B) model. This allows for the unrestricted development of micro- and nano-companies. This includes people who sell material, blog, offer things on social media, or run other small businesses. Entrepreneurs with a Visa Business card can now take digital payments, expanding the existing acceptance channels via POS terminals. The Visa Business card serves as a payment acceptance point without the use of any additional equipment. This provides tremendous prospects for the numerous individuals currently creating their small enterprises, allowing them to do so digitally," added Visa VP. Doros mentioned that the National Bank of Kazakhstan is actively working on the introduction of digital currency (digital tenge). "In partnership with the National Bank of Kazakhstan, the National Payment Corporation, and three leading banks in the country, we have issued the world's first Visa cards linked to the digital tenge. There are cash and non-cash payments, and now there is a third form of currency called CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency). The world's first CBDC-linked card was introduced by us in Kazakhstan," she explained. According to Doros, Visa actively collaborates with various stakeholders in the market, including trade and service enterprises, fintech companies, and regulators. "Partnership with all market participants, based on innovation and technology, enables us to ease the lives of people who use payment services regularly, giving them more financial options. This contributes to enhancing prosperity since the capacity to use financial instruments allows for more effective administration of small firms, boosts family income, and supports general economic development," she added. According to the VP, regarding the overall improvement of transport systems, it's worth emphasizing with pride that Visa occupies a significant global position in the evolution of payment solutions for transportation. "Residents in numerous cities worldwide have already embraced the convenience, speed, and security of cashless payments in transportation, facilitated by Visa technologies. This knowledge, experience, and technology are consistently applied in Central Asia and other regions where we operate. For instance, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, we've enabled contactless payment across all modes of public transportation, with validators at every metro station. Similarly, we introduced contactless payment on public transportation in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. In Azerbaijan, residents can use contactless cards for payments on the Baku-Sumgayit ring train route. Additionally, contactless payment is available in Almaty's metro and buses across seven other cities in Kazakhstan," she said. "In the city of Tbilisi, Georgia, we have implemented contactless payment options for both metro and surface-level public transportation. Moreover, in six additional cities across Georgia, this convenience is available for bus passengers. Consequently, nearly all the capitals in the countries where we operate, including Ukraine's Kyiv, Moldova's Chisinau, and Balarus' Minsk, as well as over 50 smaller cities, are now equipped with the capability for contactless payments. We remain prepared to further introduce these technologies in Baku," said Visa VP. According to her, there is currently an intriguing phenomenon in the realm of payment innovations, and each of us is actively engaged in it. "Payment innovations had their origins in the US, notably with the founding of Visa 65 years ago. It can be asserted that the company was the world's pioneering fintech entity to seamlessly integrate financial information and technology. Presently, we observe an increasing number of payment innovations emerging in our region. The eagerness of banks to adopt innovative technologies and the willingness of the population to embrace them both play pivotal roles in this development," she added. Acting Gov. Josh Tenorio joined other stake holders for a photo after a press conference to announce the project launch for the construction of new fiber and 5G installation for broadband coverage to southern Guam Tuesday Feb. 20, 2024, at the Governor's Conference Room in Adelup. Bill proposes using other agencies to help with GPD staff shortages FILE PHOTO: Brian Walshe listens to prosecutor Lynn Beland during his arraignment at Quincy District Court on a charge of murdering his wife Ana Walshe, in Quincy, Massachusetts, U.S. on January 18, 2023. Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley speaks during a campaign stop at the Clemson University in Greenville ONE building, ahead of the Republican presidential primary election, in Greenville, South Carolina, U.S. February 20, 2024. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Germany has invited Azerbaijan to participate in a session on water management and water diplomacy, the permanent representative of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Azerbaijan, Heiko Schwarz said during the conference on Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region, Trend reports. He noted that nine water experts from the South Caucasus countries visited Germany last year. "This year we are happy to invite people from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of different countries, including Azerbaijan and water experts again to Berlin for sessions and courses on water management and water diplomacy organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany," he added. Meanwhile, the conference Reconstruction of Water Supply and Sewerage Infrastructure in the Karabakh Region was held, aimed at bringing together stakeholders from Germany and Azerbaijan and finding solutions for efficient water supply and wastewater treatment in Western Azerbaijan. The main topics of the conference were the development of approaches to improve water quality and water treatment for drinking water supply and agriculture in Western Azerbaijan, with a special focus on the environmental problems of transboundary rivers such as the Kur, Araz, and Okchuchay. To note, in addition to water supply and wastewater companies, the task force includes environmental consultants and research institutes, as well as experts from related industries such as agriculture, construction, and mining. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Nigerias defense chief accuses nations withholding arms sales over abuses of double standards View Photo ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) Nigerias defense chief expressed frustration Tuesday with what he called the double standards of some countries that wont sell his military weapons because of human rights concerns. Gen. Christopher Musas comment underscores one of the biggest challenges for Africas most populous nation in combating a deadly and complex security crisis, from the Islamic militant insurgency in northeast to the dozens of armed groups targeting travelers and communities in the northwest and central regions. Even with our money, it is difficult getting equipment, Musa told reporters in Nigerias capital of Abuja, acknowledging a huge need for items such as helicopters, drones and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. Some say human rights, some say You have killed but again, sometimes, people pointing fingers at you have done worse and yet nobody is holding them to account. It is these double standards that (are) making the world more dangerous, Musa said. He declined to name the countries in question when asked by The Associated Press. Nigerias security forces for many years have faced allegations of extrajudicial killings and illegal arrests. The United States and other major arms suppliers at one point or another have withheld the sale of weapons over those accusations. In December, at least 85 civilians were killed when a Nigerian army drone erroneously targeted a religious gathering in northwest Kaduna state, the latest of several such incidents. Musa said Nigerias military has continued to improve on its human rights record and is holding its personnel to account. Alleged abuses are often investigated, and a report on the December incident will be released soon, he said. The Nigerian Armed Forces have the capacity to secure Nigeria (and) the entire region, Musa said, but added that the lack of needed weapons will continue to limit that capacity. However, there is little evidence to show that Nigerias military has improved on its human rights record, according to Isa Sanusi, Amnesty Internationals director in Nigeria. Protecting civilians should be their priority (and) they should look at all human rights violations they have committed to ensure accountability, Sanusi said. U.S. military support to Nigeria has at times included training on how to mitigate risks to civilians, according to a State Department statement in January on security cooperation. It said that in August, Nigeria delivered the first payment for 12 attack helicopters worth a total of $997 million. By CHINEDU ASADU Associated Press Zimbabwe starts an emergency polio vaccination drive after detecting cases caused by a rare mutation View Photo HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) Zimbabwe began an emergency campaign to inoculate more than 4 million children against polio on Tuesday after health authorities detected three cases caused by the rare mutation of the weakened virus used in oral vaccines, including a 10-year-old girl who was paralyzed in January. The health ministry said laboratory tests from samples collected from sewage sites in several areas of the capital, Harare, late last year showed the presence of a mutated polio virus that originated in an oral vaccine used in the global eradication effort. In rare instances, the live polio virus in vaccines can mutate into a form capable of sparking new outbreaks, especially in places with poor sanitation and low vaccination levels. The number of polio cases globally has dropped by more than 99% since the global effort to wipe out the disease led by the World Health Organization and others began in 1988. But the majority of children being paralyzed by polio these days are being crippled by a virus that was originally linked to a vaccine. Vaccination teams in Zimbabwe are moving from house to house to deliver more doses to protect children, while others will be stationed at health facilities, authorities said. Officials said it was the first time Zimbabwe would be using a new oral polio vaccine specifically designed to reduce the risk of the virus within it mutating into a dangerous form. Zimbabwe aims to roll out more than 10 million new vaccine doses targeting just over 4 million children below the age of 10 in two rounds in February and March. More than 95% of that population needs to be immunized against polio to stop new outbreaks. Last year, the wild polio virus caused a dozen cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the only countries that still have that virus. In comparison, polio viruses linked to the vaccine caused more than 500 cases in nearly two dozen countries globally, mostly in Africa. Zimbabwe last reported a wild polio virus case in 1986, according to the United Nations childrens agency. Zimbabwe Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora called the new detection of polio a serious concern but said they were prepared to respond swiftly. The health ministry said it was collaborating with health authorities in at least five other African countries that had recently detected polio viruses through environmental sampling and routine surveillance. Polio can cause total paralysis, and children under 5 are especially vulnerable. It is transmitted from person to person, mainly through contact with contaminated feces, water or food, as well as through droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person. ___ AP Medical Writer Maria Cheng in London contributed to this report. ___ AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa By FARAI MUTSAKA Associated Press BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The Baku Steel Company (BSC), the largest metallurgical company in the Caucasus and the largest metallurgical enterprise in the Caucasus, has secured the first contract in the Azerbaijani metallurgical industry for the sale of products to Africa, Trend reports via BSC data. "We've started exporting pipes to Senegal. BSC's products are already offered in over 20 countries around the world, including America, Eurasia, and Africa," the statement noted. The statement highlighted that Azerbaijan's strategically advantageous geographical location allows it to realize its export potential, and major efforts are being undertaken in this regard. BSC has a new steel melting furnace produced by Siemens VAI with a capacity of 550 thousand tons per year that satisfies all modern standards and has no equivalents in the CIS, Turkiye, or Iran. The company is constantly working to improve its export policy, shipping items to both nearby and faraway countries. BSC partners with firms such as Demora, Danieli, Vezzani, Air Liquide, CVS, and others, and is one of Azerbaijan's top taxpayers in the non-oil industry. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel China-born Australian democracy blogger decides against appealing suspended Chinese death sentence View Photo MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) A China-born Australian democracy blogger will not appeal his suspended death sentence imposed by a Beijing court, with his family saying Wednesday a legal challenge would be detrimental to his welfare. Yang Hengjun was found guilty of espionage following a closed trial and sentenced two weeks ago to death with a two-year reprieve. Such sentences are often commuted to life in prison after the two years. A statement from Yangs family and close friends said they strongly supported the 58-year-olds decision to waive his right to appeal. There are two practical reasons why an appeal would be detrimental to Yangs welfare, the statement said. First, there were no grounds to believe the judicial system would remedy his unjust sentence, it said. And second, an appeal would only delay the possibility of Yang receiving adequate medical care after five years of inhumane treatment and neglect in custody, the statement added. Yangs supporters urge Australia to pressure China to release him from prison on medical parole or to transfer him to Australia. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said her government respected the difficult decision Yang had made to waive his appeal rights and would continue to advocate for him at every opportunity and at the highest levels. I acknowledge the strength that Dr. Yangs family and friends have demonstrated through this period, Wong said in a statement. All Australians want to see Dr. Yang reunited with his loved ones, Wong added. Yang, a former Chinese diplomat and state security agent who became a political commentator and writer of spy novels in Australia, was detained in January 2019 on arrival in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou on a flight from New York with his wife and teenage stepdaughter. He was tried in Beijing in May 2021. The details of his case have not been disclosed. Yang, who became an Australian citizen in 2002, has denied working as a spy for Australia or the United States. In a letter to his sons in August last year, Yang said he hadnt experienced direct sunlight in more than four years. He told his family he feared he would die in detention after being diagnosed with a kidney cyst, prompting supporters to demand his release for medical treatment. In October last year, Australian journalist Cheng Lei was freed after more than three years in detention in China for breaking an embargo with a television broadcast on a state-run TV network. The plights of Yang and Cheng had frequently been on the agendas of high-level meetings between the countries in recent years. By ROD McGUIRK Associated Press CA Governor Gavin Newsom and President Joe Biden View Photo Los Angeles, CA President Joe Biden is spending three days in California and fundraising ahead of the November General Election which is expected to be a rematch with former President Donald Trump. The campaign announced ahead of the visit that Biden had collected $42 million in contributions during January. As he was leaving for the state yesterday, he was asked by reporters in a press gaggle whether Governor Gavin Newsom should get ready to be Plan B, if Biden for some reason cannot continue the campaign. Biden laughed off and ignored the question and quickly pivoted the topic to sanctions on Russia. Biden held a fundraiser Tuesday evening at the home of billionaire Haim Saban in Los Angeles and will later hold private events in San Francisco and Los Altos Hills. Judge sets $5M bond for Colorado student accused of killing his dorm roommate and another person View Photo DENVER (AP) A judge on Tuesday raised the bond for a student being held in the deaths of two people shot in a dorm room at a Colorado college to $5 million after a prosecutor said there were indications he tried to flee and had a gun when he was arrested. The bond for Nicholas Jordan, 25, had been set at $1 million after he was arrested Monday in the deaths Friday of his roommate, Samuel Knopp, 24, and Celie Rain Montgomery, 26, at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Judge Shannon Gerhart sided with prosecutors and agreed to raise it during Jordans first court appearance. Robert Willett of the 4th Judicial District Attorneys Office did not elaborate about any possible attempts to flee by Jordan, who is from Detroit. He said that Jordan did not have strong ties to the community, had a firearm in his vehicle when he was arrested and posed a threat to witnesses and others at the university, about 69 miles (111 kilometers) south of Denver. Jordans lawyer, Nick Rogers, said he would wait until Jordans next court hearing on Friday to addresss the bond amount because he has not been able to see the document outlining the evidence that led to Jordans arrest. The arrest affidavit is sealed and not available to the public, although Gerhart said it can be given to Rogers. Rogers did not address the allegations against Jordan during Tuesdays hearing. He is an attorney from the state public defenders office, which does not comment on its cases. Jordans sister, Dominque Jordan, said she did not know what happened, because police have not released any details or motive, but she said the accusations do not sound like something her brother would do. Another brother recently visited Jordan at school and there was no indication of any problems with his roommate, she said. This would not even be something that we would think would happen, she said of her brother, whom she said literally lived to go to school. Police said its motor vehicle theft unit found Jordan in a car and the tactical enforcement unit took him into custody Monday without incident in a residential area of Colorado Springs that is about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from campus. Jordan was Knopps roommate, Colorado Springs police spokesperson Caitlin Ford said. Ford did not know Montgomerys relationship to the two men and did not have any information about what may have motivated the shooting. Jordan was a student at the university at the time, university spokesperson Jenna Press. Knopp was also a student, but Montgomery was not enrolled, police said. According to police, the bodies of Knopp and Montgomery were found after shots were fired at around 6 a.m. Friday in Crestone House, a dorm in a complex that offers apartment-style living for undergraduates and graduate students. A lockdown across campus lasted for about 90 minutes before being scaled back to just the complex. On Friday, police said the deaths appeared to be an isolated incident involving people who knew each other and not a random attack. They also said they did not think there was any ongoing threat to the community. Police also obtained an arrest warrant for Jordan late Friday but did not reveal that he was a suspect until announcing his arrest. Police acknowledged Sunday that they intentionally restricted the information released to the public during the first 48 hours of their probe as they worked to investigate what had happened at the school. Dozens gathered for a memorial walk Monday at the school, which is home to more than 11,000 students and nearly 2,000 faculty and staff. ___ Associated Press researcher Jennifer Farrar contributed to this report. By JESSE BEDAYN and COLLEEN SLEVIN Associated Press Attorney: Husband denies any involvement in disappearance of American woman in Spain View Photo FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) The husband of an American missing in Spain under suspicious circumstances played no part in her disappearance and disputes her familys contention that their impending divorce was nasty, his attorney said Tuesday. David Knezevich was in his native Serbia when his wife, Ana, disappeared from her Madrid apartment on Feb. 2 and has been cooperating with both Spanish police and the FBI, said Ken Padowitz, his Florida-based attorney. Ana Knezevich, a 40-year-old naturalized American originally from Colombia, vanished shortly after a man wearing a motorcycle helmet disabled her apartment complexs security cameras by spray painting the lenses. Two of her friends received text messages from her phone the next day saying she was running off for a few days with a man she had just met. They say the messages were not written in her style and she would never leave with a stranger. David has worked with authorities. He has talked to detectives in Spain on a number of occasions. Hes provided credit card information He obtained a lawyer in Spain to sign documents that might help the Spanish authorities go into the apartment that his wife had rented, Padowitz said. He is doing everything that he possibly can from Serbia. He said if Knezevich, 36, traveled to Spain, that would not help the investigation or search. He does not speak Spanish. He does not have family in Spain. He does not have friends in Spain. He does not have a house or an apartment or any place to live in Spain, Padowitz said. Sanna Rameau, a friend of Ana, said Tuesday that David Knezevich told both her and Anas brother that on Feb. 2 he was at the couples Fort Lauderdale home and not in Serbia. Whatever he did can obviously be confirmed by authorities, Rameau said. Madrid police on Tuesday said the investigation is ongoing, but did not release further details. David and Ana Knezevich, who sometimes spell their surname Knezevic, have been married for 13 years. They own EOX Technology Solutions Inc., which does computer support for South Florida businesses. Records show they also own a home and two other Fort Lauderdale properties, one of those currently under foreclosure. Anas brother, Juan Henao, called the divorce nasty in an interview with a Fort Lauderdale detective, a report shows. He told police that David was angry that they would be dividing a substantial amount of money. But Padowitz said the couples split had been amicable and that they had even talked of hiring just one attorney to finalize their divorce and divide their properties and other assets. That they were having a nasty divorce, thats just blatantly false, Padowitz said. Rameau said Ana never told her the divorce was amicable, but I also did not take part (in) all their conversations. ____ AP reporter Ciaran Giles in Madrid contributed to this report. By TERRY SPENCER Associated Press Young girl killed when a hole she dug in the sand collapsed on a Florida beach, authorities said Young girl killed when a hole she dug in the sand collapsed on a Florida beach, authorities said View Photo FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) A young girl was buried in sand and died Tuesday when a deep hole she was digging with a little boy collapsed on them both at a south Florida beach, authorities said. Emergency crews responding around 3 p.m. to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea found the boy, who is about 8 years old, buried up his chest in sand, said Sandra King, a spokesperson for Pompano Beach Fire Rescue. The girl, about 7 years old, was completely buried underneath the boy, King told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. The hole was 5 or 6 feet (1.8 meters) deep when the collapse happened, she said. Rescuers used support boards to keep more sand from collapsing in as they used shovels to dig the children out, King said. She didnt know how long they were buried. The girl was rushed to Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, where she was pronounced dead, King said. The boy was hospitalized in stable condition. It wasnt immediately known whether an adult was helping the children dig the hole. Mayorkas meets with Guatemalan leader Arevalo following House impeachment over immigration View Photo MEXICO CITY (AP) U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas met Saturday with newly elected Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo and discussed regional migration, security and the economy in the Central American nation, they said. The meeting at the Munich Security Conference came days after the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives voted to impeach Mayorkas for the administrations handling of migrants at the U.S. southern border. Guatemala is a key partner of ours in regional economic development, managing hemispheric migration, combatting transnational crime, and much more, wrote Mayorkas in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday. The U.S. has pushed allies in Latin America like Guatemala to put up barriers to slow migration north. It has also sought to address the root causes of migration from countries like Guatemala, which has seen hundreds of thousands of its own citizens migrate to the U.S. every year. While arrests by the U.S. Border Patrol sharply dipped in January, down 50% in from a record-breaking 249,735 in December, immigration remains a top priority for the Biden administration and voters in the lead up to the 2024 election. Both Mayorkas and Arevalo on Saturday reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating on issues in the Americas. Together we will work for the security and well-being of the region, Arevalo wrote in a post on X. The meeting also comes after a tumultuous couple of months for progressive anti-corruption crusader Arevalo. The leader has posed a threat to the countrys elite who have long benefited from high levels of corruption and impunity in Guatemala, something the Biden administration has said contributed to migration. Arevalo and his Seed Party Movement faced waves of judicial attacks during his election campaign and following his election, which has raised democratic concerns across the region and has spurred the Biden administration to impose sanctions on a slew of officials it said sought to undermine Guatemalas peaceful transition of power. The Biden-Harris Administration is proud to support Guatemalas democracy and work together to advance the security and prosperity of the Americas, Mayorkas wrote. Shes not quitting. Takeaways from Nikki Haleys push to stay in the GOP contest against Trump Shes not quitting. Takeaways from Nikki Haleys push to stay in the GOP contest against Trump View Photo KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. (AP) Nikki Haleys team is bracing for a home state embarrassment in South Carolinas Republican presidential primary on Saturday. Conventional wisdom suggests shell be forced to drop out. But that may not apply in 2024. Ahead of a major speech on Tuesday, Haley told The Associated Press that shes staying in the race no matter what at least until after another 20 states vote through Super Tuesday on March 5. Thats even as Donald Trumps MAGA movement is furious that shes refusing to drop out. After all, shes the last major candidate standing in his path to the nomination. The Associated Press spoke with Haley and several senior campaign officials and donors about her strategy ahead of the big speech. Here are some takeaways about how and why she plans to stay in the race: SHES NOT QUITTING Haley knows there is speculation she may drop out on Tuesday. But she told The Associated Press that shes not going anywhere until at least after Super Tuesday. Yes, thats even if shes blown out by Donald Trump in her home state in Saturdays South Carolina primary. Ten days after South Carolina, another 20 states vote. I mean, this isnt Russia. We dont want someone to go in and just get 99% of the vote, Haley said. What is the rush? Why is everybody so panicked about me having to get out of this race? In case you dont believe her, her team provided new details about her plans post-South Carolina. Shes spending more than $500,000 on a new television advertising campaign set to begin running Wednesday in Michigan. Her post-South Carolina travel schedule features 11 separate stops in seven days across Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, Utah, Virginia, Washington, D.C., North Carolina and Massachusetts. The schedule also includes at least 10 high-dollar private fundraising events. THE LOSSES MAY PILE UP Just dont ask Haley which primary state shes going to win. Its a fair question for someone who says she has a legitimate path to winning the Republican president nomination. But Haley and her team arent willing to answer that question specifically. Or maybe they cant. Thats because polls suggest shes a major underdog in virtually every state even the state where she lives and was elected twice as governor given Trumps grip on the Republican Party. Remember, Republican primary elections are typically decided by the partys most energized partisans not the broader swath of moderates and independents that are more influential in general elections. Haley had a fiery answer when pressed on her specific prospects for victory during the AP interview. Instead of asking me what states Im gonna win, why dont we ask how hes gonna win a general election after spending a full year in a courtroom? she said. Still, Haleys team says there are several states where she can be competitive with Trump especially those with open or semi-open primaries that allows a broader collection of voters to participate instead of just hardcore Republicans. By the way, one of them is South Carolina, which allows voters to participate in whichever presidential primary they want as long as they only vote once. MONEY IS NOT A PROBLEM Stop us if youve heard this before, but most presidential candidates do not drop out when they lose; they drop out when they run out of money. The conditions are related, of course. Who wants to waste money on a loser? But somehow, even as the losses begin to pile up, Haley is raising money at the strongest rate of her political career. Traditional Republican donors like Eric Levine, who hosted a New York fundraiser for Haley earlier this month, said hes betting big that Haley will somehow find an opening if she stays patient given Trumps legal baggage and propensity for major gaffes and scandal. Theres also a more emotional appeal. Many in the party just arent ready to surrender to Trumps MAGA politics even if the math is on his side. Or as Levine puts it, Were not prepared to fold our tents and pray at the altar of Donald Trump. Haleys campaign raised $5 million in a fundraising swing after her second-place finish in New Hampshire that included stops in Texas, Florida, New York, and California, according to campaign spokesperson Olivia Perez-Cubas. Her campaign raised $16.5 million in January alone her best fundraising month ever. She raised another $1 million last week in the 24 hours after Trump attacked her husband, a military serviceman currently serving overseas. LEANING INTO TRUMP LEGAL ISSUES As Trump calls Haley names like stupid and birdbrain, Haley is sharpening her focus on the Republican former presidents legal troubles. Again and again, she attacked Trump for spending as much or more time in the courtroom as on the campaign trail. She predicted that Trumps political standing would change dramatically if hes a convicted felon before Election Day, while worrying aloud that the Republican National Committee would become a personal piggy bank for his legal fees. People are not looking six months down the road when these court cases have taken place, Haley said. Hes going to be in a courtroom all of March, April, May and June. How in the world do you win a general election when these cases keep going and the judgments keep coming? And she didnt exactly agree with Trump that every one of the 91 felony charges against him are all politically motivated. Some, I think, are very politically motivated. Some, hes going to have to defend himself, she said in drawing a clear distinction. LONG TERM OUTLOOK HAZY Some Republicans want Haley to stay in the race all the way to the partys July national convention. But Haley said she isnt yet thinking much about her strategy beyond Super Tuesday. She also declined to say whether shed drop out of the race if and when Trump hit the 50% delegate threshold to formally become the partys presumptive nominee. At the current rate, thats likely to happen sometime in March. She was also non-committal when asked if shed help Trump on the campaign trail this fall if he ultimately secures the GOP nomination. I dont know what actions Im gonna take in terms of that, but I always said that even though I have problems with President Trump, I have more problems with Joe Biden, Haley said. And finally, we asked her if she could 100% rule out running on a presidential ticket with No Labels, a centrist third-party group that is actively courting potential candidates. She came close to taking herself out of contention, but this didnt feel like the kind of answer that would put the question to bed for good. You be the judge. I have not had one conversation with No Labels. They have sent signals to me that they want to talk. I have told them I am not interested in talking, Haley said. Im running as a Republican. Thats my focus is to stay in this as a Republican nominee and to win as a Republican. By STEVE PEOPLES AP National Political Writer FBI investigates after letter with white powder sent to House Speaker Johnsons Louisiana church FBI investigates after letter with white powder sent to House Speaker Johnsons Louisiana church View Photo BENTON, La. (AP) Federal and state authorities are investigating suspicious mail containing a white powder that was received by a north Louisiana church attended by House Speaker Mike Johnson. Cypress Baptist Church in Benton received the package Monday, Johnsons Washington office said. Speaker Johnson and the Johnson family thank U.S. Capitol Police, the FBI, the Louisiana State Police, and the Bossier Parish Sheriffs Office for taking swift action and handling the situation professionally, Johnson spokesman Griffin Neal said in an emailed statement Tuesday. Authorities have not said who the letter was addressed to or what they believe the white powder to be. The FBI issued a statement that didnt mention the churchs name but saying it was investigating a letter containing white power sent to an address on Bentons Palmetto Road, the road on which the church is located. The FBI statement said a field test on the substance was negative, but more testing was planned, adding that even sending a hoax letter is a serious crime. The agency declined to answer questions. Neals statement said the Cypress Baptist is Johnsons home church. KTBS-TV reported that Johnsons wife, Kelly, who manages a counseling service, has an office at the church. Hunter Bidens lawyers suggest his case is tainted by claims of ex-FBI informant charged with lying View Photo WASHINGTON (AP) Hunter Biden s lawyers suggested Tuesday that claims made by a former FBI informant charged with fabricating a bribery scheme involving the presidential family may have tainted the case against the presidents son. The gun and tax charges against Hunter Biden are separate from the claims made by the informant, Alexander Smirnov, who has been charged with making up a bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden, his son and a Ukrainian energy company. But Hunter Bidens attorneys say the chatter over the informant contributed to the collapse of the plea deal offered to Hunter Biden last summer. The filing comes as Hunter Biden continues his public offensive over claims about his professional life and drug use that have been central to congressional investigations and an impeachment inquiry that seeks to tie his business dealings to his father. The presidents son is charged with lying on a form about his drug use to buy a gun in 2018. He has pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers say one photo that prosecutors used as evidence of cocaine use was actually a photo of sawdust sent by his therapist to encourage him to stay clean. The Justice Department special counsel overseeing the case against him also filed the charges against Smirnov last week. He is accused of falsely reporting to the FBI in June 2020 that executives associated with the Ukrainian energy company Burisma paid Hunter and Joe Biden $5 million each in 2015 or 2016. But before that case was filed, the prosecution followed the informant down his rabbit hole of lies, defense attorneys said in court documents. The special counsels office started investigating Smirnovs claims in July 2023, three years after he originally reported them to his handler. The plea deal imploded around the same time, after prosecutors indicated that an investigation into bribery allegations remained open, defense attorneys said in court documents. He has not yet entered a plea, but his defense attorneys said they successfully pushed for his release ahead of trial so he can effectively fight the power of the government. A spokesperson for special counsel David Weiss declined to comment. Prosecutors have previously said that the evidence against Hunter Biden is overwhelming, including cocaine residue found on the pouch used to hold his gun, and rejected the defense contention that the charges were politically motivated. Hunter Biden is also charged in Los Angeles, accused of failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. Both cases stem from the time when he acknowledged being addicted to drugs. Defense attorneys also pushed for dismissal of that case in a flurry of motions, including arguments his personal tax information was wrongly shared by IRS agents who alleged in congressional testimony the probe was mishandled. The cases were filed by special counsel David Weiss, who also charged Smirnov with lying to the FBI in an indictment filed last week. Smirnovs defense attorneys are pressing for his release from custody. The charges against Hunter Biden were filed after the collapse of a plea deal that would have avoided the possibility of a trial while his father is campaigning for another term as president. The deal imploded, though, during a hearing in July, around the same time prosecutors from the special counsels office started looking into the informants claims at the request of the FBI, according to court documents. ___ Associated Press writer Rio Yamat in Las Vegas contributed to this report. By LINDSAY WHITEHURST Associated Press Russian foreign minister visits Caracas and reaffirms support of Venezuelas Maduro View Photo CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reaffirmed Tuesday his governments support for the administration of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, expressing commitment to strategic cooperation in numerous sectors, including technology, energy and culture, during an hourslong visit to the South American country. Lavrovs meetings with Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Yvan Gil in the capital, Caracas, took place as Venezuelas government and a U.S.-backed faction of the opposition continue to negotiate conditions to level the playing field ahead of this years presidential election. During the difficult negotiation process, which started in 2021 and has been guided by Norwegian diplomats, Russia has completely backed the Venezuelan government. Unconditional Russian and Chinese support has allowed Venezuela to circumvent crippling economic sanctions, imposed primarily by the U.S. Lavrov told reporters Russias support of Maduros representatives in the negotiations remains in force. His second visit to Caracas in less than a year, which came after a stop at Cuba, was part of a three-country tour of Latin America. His next and final stop is Brazil, where he will participate in a meeting of the Group of 20 foreign ministers. Gil said ongoing discussions with Russia include increasing the number of flights between both countries which are operated by Venezuelas state-owned airline, as well as opening an insulin production plant equipped with Russian technology. Venezuela and Russia are two countries that are victims on the international stage of the illegal, irrational, illegitimate application of unilateral coercive measures, Gil said, referring to economic sanctions. However, he said, both countries have woven a close relationship, a functional, structural relationship that allows us today to show concrete results to our people. ____ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. As a result of step-by-step and coordinated measures taken by the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, seven Azerbaijani citizens (five children and two women) who were held in camps located in the Syrian Arab Republic were repatriated to the country, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. To note, first of all, the repatriates' location, identity, and citizenship of the Republic of Azerbaijan were determined, and then their transfer to the territory of the Republic of Turkiye was organized. "Representatives of relevant state bodies responsible for the repatriation of Azerbaijani citizens from Iraq and Syria were dispatched to the Republic of Turkiye, and primary medical and psychological examination of the repatriates was ensured. The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Turkiye carried out relevant coordination work, our citizens were provided with certificates of return to the Republic of Azerbaijan and transported to the country. Appropriate measures are envisaged for the social rehabilitation and reintegration of repatriates into society. The Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan will continue to take necessary measures for repatriation of citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan who became victims of the armed conflict in the territory of foreign countries," the statement of the department says. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Timeline of the Assange legal saga as he makes a final bid to avoid extradition to the US Timeline of the Assange legal saga as he makes a final bid to avoid extradition to the US View Photo LONDON (AP) WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been fighting for more than a decade to avoid extradition to the United States to face charges related to his organizations publication of a huge trove of classified documents. He has been in custody in a high-security London prison since 2019, and previously spent seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. As his lawyers begin a final round of legal challenge Tuesday to stop him from being sent from Britain to the U.S., here is a look at key events in the long-running legal saga: 2006: Assange founds WikiLeaks in Australia. The group begins publishing sensitive or classified documents. 2010: In a series of posts, WikiLeaks released almost half a million documents relating to the U.S. wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. August 2010: Swedish prosecutors issue an arrest warrant for Assange based on one womans allegation of rape and anothers allegation of molestation. The warrant is withdrawn shortly afterward, with prosecutors citing insufficient evidence for the rape allegation. Assange denies the allegations. September 2010: Swedens director of prosecutions reopens the rape investigation. Assange leaves Sweden for Britain. November 2010: Swedish police issue an international arrest warrant for Assange. December 2010: Assange surrenders to police in London and is detained pending an extradition hearing. High Court grants Assange bail. February 2011: District court in Britain rules Assange should be extradited to Sweden. June 2012: Assange enters Ecuadorian Embassy in central London, seeking asylum on June 19, after his bids to appeal the extradition ruling failed. Police set up round-the-clock guard to arrest him if he steps outside. August 2012: Assange is granted political asylum by Ecuador. July 2014: Assange loses his bid to have an arrest warrant issued in Sweden against him canceled. A judge in Stockholm upholds the warrant alleging sexual offences against two women. March 2015: Swedish prosecutors ask to question Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy. August 2015: Swedish prosecutors drop investigations into some allegations against Assange because of the statute of limitations; an investigation into a rape allegation remains active. October 2015: Metropolitan Police end their 24-hour guard outside the Ecuadorian embassy but say theyll arrest Assange if he leaves, ending a three-year police operation estimated to have cost millions. February 2016: Assange claims total vindication as the U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention finds that he has been unlawfully detained and recommends he be immediately freed and given compensation. Britain calls the finding frankly ridiculous. September 2018: Ecuadors president says his country and Britain are working on a legal solution to allow Assange to leave the embassy. October 2018: Assange seeks a court injunction pressing Ecuador to provide him basic rights he said the country agreed to when it first granted him asylum. November 2018: A U.S. court filing that appears to inadvertently reveal the existence of a sealed criminal case against Assange is discovered by a researcher. No details are confirmed. April 2019: Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno blames WikiLeaks for recent corruption allegations; Ecuadors government withdraws Assanges asylum status. London police arrest Assange at the Ecuadorian embassy for breaching bail conditions in 2012, as well as on behalf of U.S. authorities. May 2019: Assange is sentenced to 50 weeks in prison for jumping bail in 2012. May 2019: The U.S. government indicts Assange on 18 charges over WikiLeaks publication of classified documents. Prosecutors say he conspired with U.S. army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning to hack into a Pentagon computer and release secret diplomatic cables and military files on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. November 2019: Swedish prosecutor drops rape investigation. May 2020: An extradition hearing for Assange is delayed amid the COVID-19 pandemic. June 2020: The U.S. files new indictment against Assange that prosecutors say underscores Assanges efforts to procure and release classified information. January 2021: A British judge rules Assange cannot be extradited to the U.S. because he is likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. July 2021: The High Court grants the U.S. government permission to appeal the lower courts ruling blocking Assanges extradition. December 2021: The High Court rules that U.S. assurances about Assanges detention are enough to guarantee he would be treated humanely. March 2022: Britains top court refuses to grant Assange permission to appeal against his extradition. June 2022: Britains government orders the extradition of Assange to the United States. Assange appeals. Feb. 20, 2024: Assanges lawyers launch a final legal bid to stop his extradition at the High Court. By SYLVIA HUI Associated Press A Russian court extends the pretrial detention for an American reporter accused of spying View Photo MOSCOW (AP) A court in the Russian capital ruled Tuesday to keep Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in custody pending his trial on espionage charges that he denies. The Moscow City Court rejected an appeal against Gershkovichs detention filed by his lawyers, upholding an earlier ruling to keep him behind bars until the end of March. That means Gershkovich, 32, will spend at least a year behind bars in Russia after his arrest in March 2023 while on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg in the Ural Mountains. Gershkovich and the Journal have denied the espionage allegations, and the U.S. government has declared him to be wrongfully detained. Russian authorities havent detailed any evidence to support the charges. In December, the U.S. State Department said that Russia had rejected several proposals for freeing Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan who has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government dispute. Whelan was sentenced to 16 years in prison. U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Tuesday that were disappointed but not surprised by the outcome of the hearing that upheld Gershkovichs detention. He reaffirmed that Washington sees the charges against Gershkovich as baseless and urged Russia to release Gershkovich and Whelan, adding that the U.S. will keep working to secure their freedom. Speaking in an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is ready to negotiate a deal to exchange Gershkovich and hinted that Moscow wants the release of a Russian imprisoned in Germany. Putin charged that Gershkovich was caught red-handed when he was secretly getting classified information, while adding that 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 had allegedly killed Russian soldiers during separatist fighting in Chechnya. Putin didnt mention names but appeared to refer to Vadim Krasikov, a Russian serving a life sentence in Germany after being convicted of the 2019 killing in Berlin of Zelimkhan Tornike Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen of Chechen ethnicity. German judges said Krasikov acted on the orders of Russian authorities, who gave him a false identity and passport and resources to carry out the killing. German officials have refused to comment when asked if there had been any effort by Russia to secure a swap of Krasikov and Gershkovich. Gershkovich is the first American reporter to be charged with espionage in Russia since 1986, when Nicholas Daniloff, a Moscow correspondent for U.S. News and World Report, was arrested by the KGB. Gershkovich is being held at Moscows Lefortovo prison, notorious for its harsh conditions. Also Tuesday, the Justice Ministry named the U.S. government-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty as an undesirable organization, a label that carries a prison term for those working for it. RFE/RL President Stephen Capus said in a statement that this attempt to stifle us will only make RFE/RL work harder to bring free and independent journalism to the Russian people. Commenting on the Russian move, Miller, the State Department spokesman, said that weve seen Russia continue to crack down on free press, continue to crack down on transparency. It is quite clear that they do not want their people to have information about what the Russian regime does abroad but also what the Russian regime does to its own people, he said. In October, Alsu Kurmasheva, an editor for RFE/RLs Tatar-Bashkir service, was taken into custody on charges of failing to register as a foreign agent while collecting information about the Russian military. Kurmasheva, who holds U.S. and Russian citizenship and lives in Prague, is in jail pending trial and also has been charged with spreading false information about the Russian military. RFE/RL was told by Russian authorities in 2017 to register as a foreign agent, but it has challenged Moscows use of foreign agent laws in the European Court of Human Rights. The organization has been fined millions of dollars by Russia. Meanwhile, the Federal Security Service, Russias main domestic intelligence agency, on Tuesday reported the arrest of a 33-year-old woman with U.S. and Russian citizenship on charges of treason. The FSB said the woman it didnt name was accused of collecting money for the Ukrainian military. The independent news outlet Mediazona identified the woman as Ksenia Karelina and said that she had received U.S. citizenship after marrying an American. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the White House and the State Department were aware of reports of the arrest of a dual U.S.-Russia citizen and added that we are trying to get more information and to secure some consular access to that individual. Kirby refrained from further comment due to respect for privacy, but reiterated our very strong warnings about the danger posed to U.S. citizens inside Russia. He added: If youre a U.S. citizen, including a dual national residing in or traveling in Russia, you ought to leave right now. Miller noted that when it comes to dual citizens of the United States and Russia, Moscow does not recognize dual citizenship, it considers them to be Russian citizens first and foremost, giving U.S. diplomats a difficult time to get consular assistance. Some analysts have noted that Moscow may be using jailed Americans as bargaining chips after U.S.-Russian tensions soared when Russia sent troops into Ukraine. At least two U.S. citizens arrested in Russia in recent years, including WNBA star Brittney Griner, have been exchanged for Russians jailed in the U.S. ___ AP writers Zeke Miller and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report. FIRED top judge Justice Erica Ndewere has resuscitated her challenge over her unlawful dismissal from office in 2021 by dragging President Emmerson Mnangagwa to court. Ndewere was fired by Mnangagwa after a tribunal set up to investigate her recommended that she be dismissed for gross incompetence. The judge was accused by the Judicial Service Commission of wrongly quashing a prison sentence imposed on a thief and taking too long to deliver judgments. However, Ndewere claimed that she was being victimised for resisting Chief Justice Luke Malabas interference. In her submission, Ndewere cited Mnangagwa as the respondent, arguing that he failed to fulfil a constitutional obligation enshrined in section 187(8) when he removed her from the office of a judge on account of the invalid, unlawful recommendations of the Simbi Mubako Tribunal. She also argues that Mnangagwa did not file an opposing affidavit, dismissing the one filed by Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs minister Ziyambi Ziyambi as inadmissible hearsay. He (Mnangagwa) cannot delegate this responsibility in such serious matters taking into account that the constitutional obligation enshrined in section 187(8) of the Constitution is specific and one which is only exercisable by him. Consequently, there is no valid opposing affidavit before the court, the application read. In any event, the opposing affidavit purportedly deposed to by Ziyambi Ziyambi constitutes inadmissible hearsay. Ziyambi Ziyambi is the Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. He does not share the constitutional obligation enshrined in section 187(8) of the Constitution with the President. He does not know what the President received, read and considered when he removed me from office. Only the President does and no affidavit confirming the averments in Ziyambi Ziyambis affidavit. Therefore, his affidavit is inadmissible hearsay. In terms of the rules, only a deponent who can swear positively as to the facts can make an affidavit and Ziyambi Ziyambi, who could not have been lawfully involved in the entire process, cannot, therefore, swear positively to the averments he has made. Ndewere argues that Mnangagwa deliberately misconstrued Proclamation 3 of 2021, which gave the Simbi Mubako Tribunal an option to extend its lifespan by a further six months after swearing in of members. Ndewere says Mnangagwa acted on invalid recommendations in her dismissal. Applicant was discriminated against when SI [Statutory Instrument] 107/12 was not followed in her case, but SI 107/12 was used by the Chief Justice to appoint a panel of judges to investigate male colleagues Justice Benjamin Bere, Justice Webster Chinhamora and Justice Thompson Mabhikwa, she averred in her submissions. Applicant was discriminated against when she was singled out for charges for misconduct for breaching section 19(1) of Statutory Instrument 107/12, but no other judge who had not completed reviews of reserved judgments within three months was charged for misconduct. Justice Benjamin Chikowero expressed surprise in his court judgment when he recused himself from hearing my case, that he was seeing his name in a memorandum dated February 6, 2019, along with my name and other judges for allegedly not completing his work, but he was never charged and no one ever spoke to him about it. Other 17 judges who were mentioned in several memoranda along with me were never charged for gross misconduct, Ndewere submitted. Ndewere was suspended in 2020 before her dismissal the following year after granting bail to then MDC Alliance deputy chairperson Job Sikhala. NewsDay. Breaking News via Email The Black Sea is key to the flow of resources and goods between the Balkans, Carpathians, the Caucasus, and the Urals. Transportation routes and pipelines branch outwards in all directions through Eurasia . The Black Seas strategic location, along with the discoveries in recent years of its massive natural gas reserves, has Washington cooking up plans to try to sever energy and trade links between Russia and the region, but it is unlikely to find as much success as governments there arent quite as acquiescent as those in the EU. In a statement that should make everyone in the region hoping for peace and prosperity very nervous, Secretary of State for European and Eurasian affairs James OBrien recently told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Whatever path we take leads us to the Black Sea. OBrien also explained to the committee that one of the main objectives of using Ukraine in an attempt to weaken Russia is to strengthen NATOs presence in the Black Sea. Given that NATO is in the Black Sea through member states and partner countries, OBrien described how the war is being used to increase NATOs military presence across the Black Sea region under five pillars: more bilateral and multilateral engagement, regional security based upon a stronger NATO presence, economic cooperation, energy security, and democratic resilience. But reading through OBriens statements, as well as accompanying Senate bill, the Black Sea Security Act of 2023, and think tank pieces, the Blobs strategy would be more accurately described by omitting the obligatory references to strengthening democracy, and it would read something like this: Keep Russia bogged down with Ukraine while attempting to push Moscow out of trade and energy developments in the wider Black Sea region. On the first point, OBrien echoed the more typical statements recently that have nothing to do with Ukraine winning but just keeping the war going. He argued that more money for Ukraine was necessary to provide the ability to fight this fight over some time. Former Indian diplomat M.K. Bhadrkumar wrote the following after Victoria Nulands hurried trip to Kiev: The new war strategy which was outlined in a recent article in the Washington Post takes into account the possibility of Ukraine becoming a dysfunctional state. But so long as Ukraine remains a cauldron boiling with nationalism that lends itself as a base for hostile moves to destabilise Russia and lock it in permanently in a confrontation with the West, the purpose is served from Washingtons viewpoint. Thats the thing about neocons. Even when one scheme fails, theres always another harebrained plot in the works. Arnold C. Dupoy at the Atlantic Council writes about Washingtons Black Sea designs that all countries of the region (minus Russia) will benefit from an increased US presence as the honest broker. The US must provide more support for the other two Black Sea NATO members (Romania and Bulgaria), as well as Moldova, Georgia, Armenia, and even Azerbaijan. He stresses that all this will require deep pockets in order to fund and train regional military establishments, as well as offer support and incentives to US companies to move into the region. These efforts arent exactly new (Washington has for years relentlessly pushed for increasing NATOs presence in the region despite warnings that such moves would provoke Russia), but it appears to be taking on added importance with the impending US defeat in Ukraine. The Black Sea Security Act of 2023 declares that the Blob should promote a plan for greater freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, as well as assess the value of establishing a joint, multinational headquarters on the Black Sea, responsible for planning, readiness, exercises, and coordination of all Allied and partner military activity in the greater Black Sea region. The Heritage Foundation is already looking at post-Ukraine-loss strategies, writing that a more robust post-conflict maritime presence will be required for some time. Congress should require the Departments of Defense and State to provide an assessment of the costs and a timeline to establish an effective Black Sea Squadron. To demonstrate how unserious the US thinking on Black Sea policy is, Heritage declares that the US must not only dictate Turkiye and Central Asian states energy policies, but also Russias military presence, arguing for a reduction in post-conflict residual Russian Black Sea naval presence: In any post-conflict negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, the United States should propose a reduction of Russian presence in the Black Sea below pre-conflict levels. The goal is to ensure that Russia cannot recapitalize its Black Sea navy to threaten Ukraine or any Black Sea state in the future. So the plan is for Russia to reduce its forces (its currently doing the opposite) despite winning and possibly gaining even more Black Sea coastline? Meanwhile, NATO builds up its forces closer to Russias border in the region. Okay. Turkiyes Refusal to Play Along Central to any US think tank pieces, proposed legislation, or official comments on winning the region is getting Turkiye to open the Black Sea gates to NATO warships. The US has been pushing for this since the war in Ukraine began to no avail, and its telling that every strategy still rests on it despite Turkiyes repeated refusals. Turkiye controls passage to and from the Black Sea through the Bosphorus Strait and the Dardanelles and can ban the passage of naval vessels from non-littoral countries under the Montreux Convention, which it has steadfastly done since Feb. 2022. In January, Turkiye, Bulgaria and Romania signed a memorandum of understanding in Istanbul establishing the Mine Countermeasures Naval Group in the Black Sea, which will oversee demining operations. There was hope from some in the West that this could be a way to sidestep Turkiyes objections to NATO warships sailing into the Black Sea. The UK tried to send two minehunter ships to Ukraine, but Ankara said no. Erdogans office said Turkiye maintains its unwavering determination and principled stance throughout this war to prevent the escalation of tension in the Black Sea. Dont expect the West to stop trying. Washington sees it in a different light, with the proposed Black Sea Security Act of 2023 declaring that Turkiyes behavior towards some regional allies and democratic states has been counterproductive and has contributed to increased tensions in the region, and Turkiye should avoid any actions to further escalate regional tensions. Turkstream as the New Nord Stream A key NATO ally directly importing piped Russian gas? We know how that worked out for Germany. Moscow claims it has foiled numerous attempts to do the same to Turkstream. The TurkStream pipeline, which brings natural gas from Russia to Turkiye across the Black Sea and then into southeastern Europe, was controversial in certain quarters of the West ever since it was conceived. Now the flow of natural gas to Europe from Russia via Turkiye is reaching all-time highs. TurkStream has a capacity of 31.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas a year, roughly half of which stays in Turkiye, and the rest continues on to the Balkans and Central Europe. Serbia and Hungary are the primary European consumers. Washington tried to use Bulgaria to block the flow of gas from Turkiye onto Europe, but Hungary nixed that plan by threatening to veto Bulgarias entry into the Schengen area. Its worth remembering that TurkStream came about after the US and EU effectively killed the Russia-Bulgaria South Stream pipeline back in 2014. The project would have transported Russian gas under the Black Sea, making landfall in Bulgaria and then passing through Serbia and Hungary into Austria. Instead Russia pivoted to Turkiye where Erdogan was less susceptible to US pressure and opened TurkStream at the beginning of 2020 despite US sanctions on companies involved in the construction of the pipeline. That move was typical of US strategy towards Turkiye over recent years. And just like other efforts, it failed. Part of the US problem with Turkiye over many years is not for lack of trying; its that its efforts are composed almost exclusively of sticks. Erdogan is always up for bargaining as evidenced by the recently completed deal for Turkiye to approve Swedens NATO accession in exchange for 40 F-16s, but the agreement took nearly two years, and the State Department couldnt help itself from simultaneously approving a deal with Greece for 40 F-35s. Maybe the most realistic hope for Washington is that Turkiye feels threatened by Russias increasing power in the region and wants to tip the scales back in the other direction, but Moscow is also aware of that dynamic and works to keep Erdogan/Turkiye assuaged. Moscow has worked meticulously to increase its leverage over Turkiye and it has also been aided by US missteps. Just to name a few: After years of ignored requests for the US Patriot system with technology transfer, Turkiye purchased the arguably superior Russian system in 2017. Moscow has helped Ankara prop up its foreign currency reserves with the purchase of Turkish bonds via a scheme involving the construction and development of Turkiyes Akkuyu nuclear power plant. Ankara and Moscow recently celebrated the loading of fuel into the first reactor at the Russia-built plant. It was a major milestone for Turkiye, which joined the ranks of countries with nuclear energy. Turkiye had been trying to get a nuclear power plant built for 50-plus years. Back in the 90s Ankara had bids from Westinghouse + Mitsubishi, AECL, and Framatome + Siemens but had to cancel because it was going to cost more than the Turkish government could afford at the time. Instead, Russia financed, built, and is delivering the fuel to Akkuyu under a build-own-operate model. Turkish nuclear engineers are also receiving training from the Russians. Due to Western sanctions on Russia, Turkiye is now a go-between for goods into and out of Russia, which plays a large role in the recovering Turkish economy. Russian tourism also continues to be a major economic lifeline for Turkiye due to the increase in visitors after the West mostly slammed its doors shut. The fiasco the US unleashed in Syria (with Turkiye onboard) has also backfired. Turkiyes number one national security concern is a unified Kurdish region in Syria. Russias central role in determining the Syrian endgame means it is in Ankaras interests to work with Russia to prevent that from happening. (Iran, Russia and Turkiye just jointly vowed to combat separatism in Syria following their 21st meeting as part of the Astana peace process.) Looking ahead, its hard to see US-Turkiye relations improving. While Washingtons leverage declines, it remains reluctant to change course and instead doubles down on threats, which in turn only hardens the stance in Turkiye especially its ascendant nationalists. Redrawing the Energy Map If OBrien says whatever path we take leads us to the Black Sea, the same could also be said about the Turkstream pipeline for it is completely at odds for Washingtons plans for energy in the region. The Atlantic Council does well to sum up Washingtons position: Turkiye can become an energy hubbut not by going all-in on Russian gas. The thinly-veiled threat concludes with the following: Exploring phantom opportunities of energy cooperation with Russia at the expense of real risks of getting exposed to US and EU sanctions will not transform Turkiye into an energy hub. Quite the opposite, it would spell the end of this dream. A 2020 RAND report, Understanding Russian Black Sea Power Dynamics Through National Security Gaming, as well as OBriens report to the Senate and the Black Sea Security Act of 2023, make clear that one of the US top objectives (if not the top objective) is to get countries off of Turkstream and replace it with US-controlled energy. OBrien, in his testimony to the Senate, acknowledged that Washington aspires to create oil and gas pipelines that lead from Central Asia to Europe and mentioned possibilities through Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye. It happens that US major energy companies, Chevron and ExxonMobil, with their operations in Kazakhstan, rely on a pipeline that ends at the Black Sea. Kazakhstan has also begun sending oil to Germany via Russia. OBriend added that Central Asia relies too much on China and Russia to export its energy resources (the US is also pressuring Black Sea countries to abandon the Beijing-led 14+1 Initiative). So the goal is to somehow link up Central Asia, the Black Sea, and Europe while excluding Russia. Meanwhile: NEW POST: Global gas pipeline expansion: US$200 billion under construction, with Asia building over 80%. Available to members for download here: https://t.co/ZnvHLkiKjm #LNG pic.twitter.com/aG6DPLF475 Global LNG Hub (@Global_LNG) December 31, 2023 Also at issue is the Black Seas massive natural gas reserves, which GIS Reports describes: While the exact volume is still undetermined, the raw estimates paint a noteworthy picture. Turkiye announced in 2020 that its offshore exploration zone may hold over 400 billion cubic meters (bcm). Later it raised the estimate to 540 bcm and announced that further reserves are likely to be discovered in the remaining blocks. Ukraine estimated that the shelf it controlled prior to the war contained more than 2 trillion cubic meters. Romanias reserves were conservatively estimated at around 200 bcm. Georgias offshore resources are thought to be of a similar scale, while Bulgarias reserves are believed to contain sufficient gas in just one of its fields to cover the countrys projected needs for more than 30 years. The thinking goes that if Europe can acquire more natural gas and oil from Central Asia (and presumably from US companies operating there) and the Black Sea, then Russia could potentially be excluded from the European market altogether. So far, one of the big winners in the geopolitical contest has been US energy companies, as their exports to Europe have increased as Russias have declined. Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians and Russians died or were wounded to make it happen, but theres the possibility for even more suffering as the Black Sea Security Act of 2023 states, there are mutually beneficial opportunities for increased investment and economic expansion with the objective of bolstering United States support for the regions energy security and integration with Europe and reducing their dependence on Russia while supporting energy diversification. With any neocon plans, theres usually just one question to ask, however: how is it going to backfire?For the people of the region, it could mean more conflict and suffering. But we know the neocons dont care about that. They only need to look back to 2014, however, when Russia annexed Crimea and with it a maritime zone more than three times its size with the rights to underwater resources potentially worth trillions of dollars. And now Russia might very well take all Ukraines Black Sea coastal regions all the way to the Danube. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Famous Azerbaijani fitness trainer Kamil Zeynalli has been detained in Moscow, Head of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry's press service Aykhan Hajizada told Trend. According to Hajizada, the issue is under the control of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Russia. "The citizen is being provided with appropriate consular and legal assistance. If additional information appears, it will be reported to the public," Hajizada emphasized. To note, Kamil Zeynalli reported about the detention in Moscow on his Instagram account. Zeynalli claimed that he was detained and taken to the police station at Moscow's Domodedovo airport on his way back to Baku. He noted that according to the Russian police officers, he was detained due to the fact that Armenia had put him on the international wanted list. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel In late January, a coalition of local organizations including Music Venue Alliance Nashville, Belmont University and the Nashville Musicians Association announced its plan for the Greater Nashville Music Census. A new release notes that the number of partners in the coalition now numbers more than 50 entities, and the census will open Friday, March 1. The project intends to collect information from local professionals and students over age 18 who are part of the music industry if you contribute any type of music-related work, with or without compensation, and you believe your skills and commitment are worthy of acknowledgment and support, per the frequently asked questions page on the GNMC website. Participants must live in one of 14 counties including Davidson. The goal is to gather additional details to complement data already being collected in PennPraxis Nashville Independent Venues Study and make further recommendations for legislative solutions to issues affecting Nashvilles music ecosystem. Those run the gamut from the challenges of making ends meet as a professional musician to the difficulty of keeping an independent music venue or nonprofit music organization in place as rents increase. Several types of partners are still being sought to spread the word about the census within their network. So far the venues and musicians are showing up, the nonprofits are showing up, and the big associations are showing up, Eric Holt an assistant professor at Belmont University who co-founded concert promoter Lovenoise says in the release. The excitement is real, but we need more voices at the table from the songwriting community, the publishing community and the production side of things. We know youre out there hustling, come lend your voice. If you'd like to hear more, an open meeting is set for Monday, Feb. 26, at 3 p.m. Central via Zoom; Backstage Strategies' Jamie Kent and Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee's Kelly Walberg are your contacts for additional details. The census isnt available to view just yet, but will be accessible online at launch. Theyre looking for thorough and thoughtful responses, but dont wait too long: The census will only be open for one month. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in Brussels on Wednesday (21 February 2024) to discuss further strengthening the Alliances long-standing partnership with Georgia. The Secretary General emphasised that Georgia is a close partner and reiterated NATOs full support for Georgias sovereignty and territorial integrity. NATO continues to call on Russia to reverse the recognition of Georgian territories as independent states, Mr Stoltenberg said. Any threats by Russia to annex Georgias occupied regions are unacceptable. Ahead of a meeting of the NATO-Georgia Commission which discussed NATOs partnership with Georgia and regional security, the Secretary General commended Georgia for hosting thousands of Ukrainian refugees and providing crucial humanitarian and financial support to Ukraine. NATO is stepping up its cooperation with Georgia in areas such as crisis management, cyber security, military engineering and secure communications. Mr Stoltenberg urged Georgia to continue and step up domestic reforms and uphold democratic values on its path toward full membership in the Euro-Atlantic family. NATO will continue to stand by your side as you work toward fulfilling those aspirations, the Secretary General said. (As delivered) So, Prime Minister Kobakhidze, welcome to NATO, its great to see you here. We have met before but this is the first time we meet in your new capacity as Prime Minister and therefore let me start by congratulating you on your appointment as Prime Minister and we look forward to working with you. Georgia is a close NATO partner, and we fully support Georgias sovereignty and territorial integrity. NATO continues to call on Russia to reverse the recognition of Georgian territories as independent states. Any threats by Russia to annex Georgias occupied regions are unacceptable. This week, we mark the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Ukraines withdrawal from Avdiivka shows that the situation on the battlefield is extremely difficult. But the Ukrainians have exceeded expectations over and again. And NATO continues to stand with Ukraine. Just in the last few days, Allies have announced new military support packages worth billions of euros. Including for air defences, artillery ammunition, and F-16 equipment. NATO partners are also playing a key role, and I welcome that Georgia is providing humanitarian and financial aid, and hosting thousands of Ukrainian refugees. At our meeting today, we will also address security in the Black Sea region which I know is of great importance for Georgia. Russias war against Ukraine poses substantial risks to the freedom of navigation. This also impacts food security around the world. So I welcome the efforts of Allies working to demine the Black Sea, making it safer for navigation and commerce. In our meeting today we will also discuss the partnership between NATO and Georgia, and how to develop it further. I welcome the progress made in areas like crisis management, cyber security, military engineering, and secure communications. I also congratulate you on gaining candidate status with the European Union. Now it is important for Georgia to continue and step up domestic reforms and uphold democratic values. We want to see Georgia move in the right direction. Toward more democracy and prosperity. Toward full membership in the Euro-Atlantic family. NATO will continue to stand by your side as you work toward fulfilling those aspirations. So Prime Minister, once again welcome, its great to see you here at the NATO headquarters. 3 NATO member countries to build BUNKERS along their border with Russia Three member nations of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have announced plans to build bunkers along their border with Russia amid growing fears of World War III. The three nations Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia agreed to the decision as a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, according to the Sun. The Baltic trio will construct an "extensive network of fortifications" along the borders with Russia to deter Moscow from invading their countries. The project is estimated to cost around 51.2million ($64.4 million). The construction will begin in Estonia, with its government planning some 600 bunkers grouped around the border crossing points of Narva in the north and Voru in the south, Newsweek revealed in a report. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have long been considered the most likely targets for Russian President Vladimir Putin should he look to attack NATO countries a claim he promptly denied. (Related: WWIII looms: Russia warns West of catastrophic consequences if their already strained relations further deteriorate.) Susan Lillevali of the Estonian Ministry of Defense (EVK) explained that the overall intention of the bunkers is to ensure readiness "to fight the enemy from the first meter and first hour." She added: "These installations serve, first, the purpose of avoiding military conflict in our region, as they could potentially change the enemy's calculus." "Counter-mobility and fortification measures have played a significant role in wars in our region in history, for example in Finland. As the war in Ukraine has demonstrated they are perfectly valid also in this century. The war in Ukraine has shown that taking back already conquered territories is extremely difficult and comes at great cost of human lives, time and material resources." Thanks to your generous support, we are building the infrastructure of human freedom and actively donating our technology to independent publishers, authors and home schooling organizations. Learn about our game-changing non-commercial AI project here. Support our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance human knowledge by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com. The Baltic nations' bunkers are part of readiness measures the entire continent has been engaged in for some time now. Aside from bolstering defense, Europe has also been warned to ramp up weapons stocks to "wartime levels" in anticipation of a potential Russian attack. Is NATO actually ready to go to war with Russia? While Ukraine has managed to withstand Moscow's offensives for the past two years, it's likely the three small Baltic states would be overrun within a matter of days. However, the rest of NATO including the U.K. and the U.S. would be forced into military action with Russia the moment it attacks the three nations. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has since warned Europe to ramp up levels of weapons production to counter the Russian threat. "We need to reconstitute and expand our industrial base to increase deliveries to Ukraine and refill weapons stocks," he told the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag. According to Stoltenberg, the 31-member organization does not seek a war with Russia. However, he pointed to the Russian "special military operation" in Ukraine as proof that "peace in Europe cannot be taken for granted." "If Putin wins in Ukraine, there is no guarantee that Russian aggression will not spread further. Supporting Ukraine now and investing in NATO's own capabilities is our best defense," the NATO head told the newspaper. "We are 31 democratic nations on both sides of the Atlantic, and as long as this alliance has existed there have been different views and discussions." Head over to WWIII.news for more stories like this. Watch Brannon Howse and his guest discuss how NATO is pushing for WWIII with Russia. This video is from the Worldview Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Martin Armstrong: Western leaders who are actually fascists funded the terror attacks in Israel to draw Russia into WWIII. POKING THE BEAR: Britains defense chief provokes Russia to unleash WWIII by sending its troops to train Ukrainian soldiers. Trump: Bidens INCOMPETENCE leading the U.S. to WWIII. WWIII looms: Biden administration working on another PROXY WAR involving Taiwan and China. Steve Quayle: Push for WWIII part of a glorified Luciferian globalist plan to exterminate humanity. Sources include: The-Sun.com Brighteon.com Apartment owners in Australia propose NEW RULES for storing electric bikes and scooters following wave of BATTERY FIRES Australians who live in apartment units may soon face restrictions on storing cheap, imported or damaged mobility devices powered by batteries thanks to new rules proposed by the Owners Corporation Network (OCN). The OCN which unites owners' corporations for apartments in the Land Down Under analyzed recent cases of lithium-ion battery fires caused by electric scooters, bicycles and skateboards. It found that cheap and damaged mobility devices from disreputable manufacturers are to blame. Emma Sutcliffe, CEO of battery fire research company EV Fire Safe, backed OCN's findings. According to her, personal mobility devices with lithium batteries commonly have quality issues, especially when misused. (Related: Lithium-ion batteries of e-bikes and e-scooters are causing hundreds of fires in New York and San Francisco.) "In Australia, were seeing at least one e-bike or e-scooter catching fire each week. Theres no training for people to repair or maintain these," Sutcliffe said. "They take an enormous amount of wear and tear in daily use, and then people bring them inside their homes to charge them up, which is where we see issues." Given this finding, the OCN proposed new by-laws and a "code of conduct" to address safety concerns related to battery-powered mobility devices. It introduced several proposed by-laws to regulate the use and storage of battery-powered mobility devices within apartment buildings during a Feb. 15 seminar. OCN Chairman Fred Tuckwell clarified that the motive behind the proposal is not to seek a total ban on e-scooters or e-bikes. Rather, it seeks to focus on products belonging to a high-risk category, such as damaged or non-compliant devices. We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Learn about our free, downloadable AI tools on nutrition, health and preparedness at this article link. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance. "It does not seek to ban e-bikes or e-scooters, apart from those that are non-compliant," he explained. "If somebody that does something that causes a fire in a building, that's not just their home that's going to be affected. It's everybody's home, so it is entirely legitimate for the owners' corporation to be regulating something if it represents a real risk to other parts of the building." Insurance companies warn about the consequences of cheap and damaged battery-powered mobility devices David Ellis, the technical director at Strata Community Insurance, warned the public that insurance prices might go up if owners of strata properties don't address the risk associated with electronic bikes and scooters. Meanwhile, Australian insurer Allianz reported a staggering 440 percent surge in claims related to lithium-ion battery fires over the past three years. The insurance company pointed out that the associated costs of these claims skyrocketed by 900 percent from 2020 to 2023. According to the firm, the substantial rise in insurance submissions is attributed to an increase in high-value commercial property claims. Aside from the proposals, Allianz has provided key indicators of a potential "battery thermal runaway" that may precede a fire. These signs include unusual sounds such as bubbling, popping or hissing, produced as battery cells react to heat. Additionally, individuals may detect a sickly sweet cherry smell emitted from toxic gases or witness off-gassing, where toxic gases vent from the cells and form large, flammable vapor clouds. In November 2023, NSW Fair Trading conducted 166 inspections of retailers selling lithium-ion battery devices. Of these inspections, the organization found 30 models to be non-compliant and promptly removed them from sale. Anoulack Chanthivong, minister for better regulation and fair trading, issued a reminder to consumers a the time: "I'm reminding buyers to store batteries safely and if they have concerns they should reach out to the manufacturer or NSW Fair Trading." Visit RoboCars.news to learn more about the dangers of electric vehicles. Watch this video that explains how lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles catch fire. This video is from The Old Folk Show channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Fire official expresses concern about the hazards associated with lithium batteries, which "don't go out as easily as other fuel sources." Electric cars in Florida catching fire after Hurricane Ian. Electric scooters shouldn't be treated as toys: Face and head injuries caused by the motorized scooters have TRIPLED, warn researchers. "Eco-friendly" scooters revealed to be largely a fraud: They're far dirtier for the environment than their advocates could have imagined. Car companies are expanding into the lithium mining business to secure their supplies for EV manufacturing. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com 9News.com.au Brighteon.com Arkansas pro-lifers mobilize to defeat radical pro-abortion constitutional amendment Pro-life activists in Arkansas are gearing up to counter a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would establish a "right" to abortion Abortion is currently illegal in Arkansas for any reason except when the mother's life is in physical danger. But activists in the Natural State have successfully forced Attorney General Tim Griffin to certify the Arkansas Abortion Amendment of 2024 as a ballot measure to be voted on in November. The proposed amendment to be enshrined in the state constitution would prevent the state from banning abortion within the first 18 weeks of the pregnancy. Abortion procedures beyond these 18 weeks would be allowed for instances of rape, incest, fatal fetal anomalies and to protect the mother's life. The amendment would also exempt abortions performed to protect the mother from a physical disorder, physical illness or physical injury. The amendment, if passed, would nullify any state law conflicting with these provisions. This includes Amendment 68 to the current state constitution, which aims "to protect the life of every unborn child from conception until birth, to the extent permitted by the Federal Constitution." Pro-life activists led by Arkansas Right to Life (ARtL) have warned the public that the amendment could undermine existing laws protecting the unborn, parental rights and the health of pregnant mothers. "If adopted, the proposed measure could render all current laws protecting the unborn, protecting parental rights and protecting the pregnant mother null and void," explained ARtL. "This means that Arkansas laws requiring parental consent before a minor's abortion could disappear." Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Learn about our free, non-commercial AI / LLM project here. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions. "It could also repeal laws that protect the unborn from dismemberment abortion, it could repeal our informed consent and ultrasound law, clinic licensing law or admitting privilege law, and certainly, the law that protects the unborn child to birth," continued the group. "If this ballot measure is adopted, it could make it impossible and illegal to pass any common-sense protections for the unborn child or her mother in the future." Along with ARtL, other pro-life organizations have launched campaigns to defeat the amendment, including the Family Council of Arkansas, Arkansans for Common Sense and NWA Coalition for Life. ARtL has also launched the "Decline to Sign" campaign, urging Arkansans to withhold their signatures from a "death warrant on innocent unborn children." Pro-lifer calls for a simplified abortion strategy to win abortion referendums The abortion lobby has been consistently successful in winning ballot measures enshrining abortion rights into state constitutions. This, in turn, makes it difficult for future state laws to change them. (Related: Abortions in the U.S. HAVE INCREASED since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.) These amendments can only be overturned by a nationwide abortion ban, leading pro-life advocates to discuss the importance of coming up with new ways to protect life during elections. In turn, Jonathon Van Maren of "The Van Maren Show" proposed a simplified messaging strategy for pro-life movements. He suggests incorporating abortion victim photography to emphasize the human aspect of the issue. He encourages the use of statements from abortionists and pro-abortion activists themselves to reveal the harsh reality of abortion. "The reality is that a decent percentage of the pro-life movement runs away from these tactics. They're afraid of being open about what abortion is because they're confusing marketing with social reform. A social reform strategy which seeks to change people's minds is turning people off of an injustice," he said. He criticizes certain strategies, such as making arguments about "parental rights" and asserting that pro-abortion legislation is "too confusing" or "too extreme." He urges the movement to be more transparent and assertive in their messaging to save babies. "Everybody knows that we're being disingenuous [with these strategies] because the reality is the only reason any of us are in the movement; the only reason any of us do pro-life work, is because we want to save babies, because abortion kills babies," Van Maren said. Check out Abortions.news for more stories related to the murder of the unborn. Watch the full episode of the "Health Ranger Report" with Mike Adams and Susan Swift as they discuss the dismantling of the abortion cartels. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Abortion rates in North Carolina drop by over 30% following implementation of PRO-LIFE LAW. Abortions in Illinois surge 54% as neighboring states enact pro-life legislation. NO TO ABORTION TRAFFICKING: Lubbock County Commissioners Court approves anti-abortion transport ban. ABORTION WELFARE: Getting an abortion in California is now free, thanks to Gavin Newsom. Sources include: LifeSiteNews.com 1 APNews.com LifeSiteNews.com 2 Brighteon.com CBP reports record-high BORDER ENCOUNTERS in January 2024 Statistics released by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reveal a record number for migrant encounters in January 2024 , surpassing figures for the same month in previous years. As per data released by CBP on Feb. 13, Border Patrol agents reported more than 176,000 border encounters in January 2024. This number eclipsed the 157,358 border encounters recorded in January 2023, according to the Epoch Times. Back in December 2023, Border Patrol tallied 249,785 arrests on the Mexican side up 31 percent from the 191,112 arrests in November 2023 and up 13 percent from the 222,018 arrests in December 2022. According to CBP, this number fell more than half during the first two weeks of January. The agency previously said a crackdown by Mexican authorities contributed to this decline. Moreover, Mexicans accounted for the most number of illegals arrested in December with 56,236 arrests. Venezuelans landed at second place with 46,937, while the number of Guatemalan arrests increased putting them at No. 3. Hondurans and Colombians rounded out the top five nationalities arrested for that month. Among the nine Border Patrol sectors on the Mexican border, Tucson, Arizona was the busiest corridor for illegal crossings with 80,105 arrests. The Del Rio, Texas sector the focus of Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts enforcement efforts was second with 71,095 arrests. San Diego, where almost 6,000 Chinese border crossers were arrested, was a distant third. "Southwest border encounters between ports of entry dropped by 50 percent in January," said CBP Acting Commissioner Troy Miller. "We continue to experience serious challenges along our border, which surpass the capacity of the immigration system." (Related: FBI wary of terrorists crossing the border illegally.) Thanks to your generous support, we are building the infrastructure of human freedom and actively donating our technology to independent publishers, authors and home schooling organizations. Learn about our game-changing non-commercial AI project here. Support our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance human knowledge by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com. U.S. continues to enforce immigration law REALLY? "The fact remains: The U.S. continues to enforce immigration law, and our borders are not open for those without a legal basis to enter the country," the CBP stated in a press release accompanying its data. But the actual situation on the ground paints a different picture, however. Thanks to the Biden administration and its open borders policy, Border Patrol agents have documented unprecedented levels of illegal immigration. CBP personnel encountered more than 2.2 million illegals at the southern border during fiscal year (FY) 2022, and more than two million illegals during FY 2023. The Feb. 13 data also mentioned that Border Patrol agents have apprehended more than 753,000 illegals in FY 2024, which began on Oct. 1, 2023. Despite this, CBP has insisted that it "continues to expeditiously process and remove individuals who do not have a legal basis to remain in the country." It also stressed that it is "cutting out ruthless smugglers who continue to spread falsehoods and show disregard for the safety and well-being of vulnerable migrants" and "targeting and disrupting transnational criminal organizations and smugglers who take advantage of and profit from migrants." "Since May 12, 2023 to Jan. 31, 2024, DHS has removed or returned over 520,000 individuals, the vast majority of whom crossed the southwest border including more than 87,000 individual family members," the agency said. "CBP's message for anyone who is thinking of attempting to circumvent lawful pathways to enter the United States is simple: Don't do it. When [illegal immigrants] cross the border unlawfully, they put their lives in peril." Watch Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) explain how President Joe Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas "broke" the southern border below. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Turkish smugglers using SOCIAL MEDIA to aid and abet illegal immigrants crossing southern border. Texas installs RAZOR WIRE along New Mexico border to block ILLEGAL ALIENS from crossing. OUTRAGE: Israel told Gaza residents to flee to Egypt for safety, then appears to have BOMBED the lone border crossing for their escape. INSANE: New border security bill secures every border except ours. Texas border sector reports 10K known border crossers in single week. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com CBP.gov Brighteon.com Iran claims Antarctica as its PROPERTY, plans to send soldiers and scientists in contravention of Antarctic Treaty The commander of the Iranian Navy has stated in a live broadcast that the regime in Tehran has officially claimed Antarctica as Iranian territory and is drawing up plans to station troops at the South Pole. Islamic Republic of Iran Navy Commodore Shahram Irani said that Iran possesses property rights at the South Pole in an announcement that outlined future plans to raise the Iranian flag at the southern continent and conduct both military and scientific activities there. (Related: Iran tests ballistic missiles as part of war drills designed to prepare for potential strikes on Israeli military facilities.) This declaration comes following a period of saber-rattling by Iran and its navy, drawing attention from the international community particularly following the involvement of Iranian-backed militias in the killing of three American soldiers in Jordan the previous month. Following Irani's revelation, Fox News Digital sought insights from a State Department spokesperson regarding whether or not the $6 billion in unfrozen sanctioned Iranian funds that President Joe Biden is allowing Tehran to reclaim could be used to establish an Iranian military base in Antarctica. The spokesperson clarified that Iran's funds, currently held in Qatar, are restricted and may only be used to purchase humanitarian goods such as food, medicine, medical devices and agricultural products like fertilizer. The response was specially crafted to dispel any concerns about the potential misuse of unfrozen sanction funds for militaristic endeavors. Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Learn about our free, non-commercial AI / LLM project here. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions. Despite Iran's growing assertiveness globally, with recent developments such as the unfreezing of funds and increased tensions in the Middle East, there are doubts about the practicality and international recognition of Iran's claims in Antarctica. "Iran's future plans to try to expand its military presence and influence into the Antarctic would not only violate multilateral conventions on the issue, but continue the regime's trend of aggression across the globe," warned Israel-based author, journalist and military and intelligence analyst Yonah Jeremy Bob. "Whether through terrorism on basically every continent or its rampant piracy in the maritime arena, the Islamic Republic continues to show why it is a danger to world stability." Ownership of Antarctic territory heavily disputed Antarctica is not owned by any single country. Instead, it is governed by a unique international partnership formed under the Antarctic Treaty, signed on Dec. 1, 1959. This treaty designates Antarctica as a continent dedicated to peace and scientific endeavors. Over the years, 54 nations have acceded to the Antarctic Treaty, participating in this unprecedented example of global cooperation and diplomacy. The Antarctic Treaty emerged during a period of global turbulence and the Cold War. The signing nations, including Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the U.S. and the former Soviet Union. The primary objective of the Antarctic Treaty is to foster international scientific collaboration in Antarctica, resolve most territorial disputes and prohibit absolutely all military activities on the frozen continent to ensure its preservation for peace and scientific research. Under the Antarctic Treaty, nations are encouraged to engage in scientific research and international collaboration. A key aspect is the cultivation of trust and transparency, with nations urged to conduct inspections of any research station at any time without prior notice. Moreover, the treaty imposes a freeze on all territorial claims. While the treaty is in effect, no activities can strengthen existing claims, and no new claims can be made by any nation. Iran is not a signatory of the Antarctic Treaty. Read more stories like this at Chaos.news. Watch this video discussing Iran's declaration that it has rights to Antarctica. This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Meta BANS Instagram accounts of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. Report: Iran may be able to create a nuclear weapon WITHIN A WEEK. Ray McGovern: NEOCONS and WARMONGERS in Biden admin are pushing U.S. into war with Iran. U.S. aggressively pushing ESCALATION in its ongoing SHADOW WAR with Iran. Sources include: FoxNews.com AuroraExpeditions.com.au Brighteon.com BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. President of the Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi 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. "Excellency, I express sincere congratulations on the occasion of your historic re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. This victory is a clear reflection of the dynamic and great leadership throughout your term as President, not only in Azerbaijan, but also globally. The Republic of Suriname appreciates the bilateral and multilateral relations and looks forward to join efforts in advancing our partnership in areas of mutual interest, for the benefit of our countries and our peoples. In this respect, I am convinced that Azerbaijan, as host of the upcoming COP29, is diligently laying the groundwork needed, to deliver a successful Conference. On behalf of the Government and the People of the Republic of Suriname, allow me to extend best wishes and success, along with good health, as you embark on your new term as the President of Republic of Azerbaijan. Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem and consideration," the letter reads. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Unreal but TRUE: Man squats in a home, gets sued by owner and still walks away with a $10,000 check A video of a man telling about how he was able to hijack the system , live rent-free for months, get away from legal action, and still manage to get away with a big, fat $10,000 check has been circulating and going viral on social media. According to the video that the supposed "squatter" recorded and uploaded, he got to live for free in a house in Portland, Oregon when he looked for a vacant house to rent. He got the details of the home and researched on YouTube how to break in by destroying the locks on the house. Then, he downloaded and forged some documents and made it look like he had a lease agreement with the house owner. Next, "I called the utility companies and had the utilities put in my name" but refused to pay, the man bragged. It was at this point when the owner showed up and the man "politely explained" that this was his house now. He asked them to leave and this triggered them to call the police. The man had the nerve to show the cops his "fake" lease agreement and the utility bills that were named after him. Upon finding this out, law enforcement advised the owner to just sue the man because this is a civil matter. When the rightful homeowner filed a case, wanting to evict him, he contacted a tenant advocacy group and he got a lawyer 100 percent free and funded by taxpayers. ?? MAN DETAILS HOW YOU CAN EXPLOIT THE SYSTEM AND LIVE RENT-FREE IN OREGON "She lawyers up and tries to evict me. Of course, I call up a tenancy advocacy group funded by taxpayers. So this lawyer fights on my behalf for months and months. Finally, the owner decided it would pic.twitter.com/f2eOIBWoLb Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 14, 2024 "My out-of-pocket is still zero while the lawyer fought on my behalf for months and months, really driving the owner crazy and costing her tens of thousands of dollars. Finally, the owner decided it would be cheaper to just give me a chunk of cash to leave rather than continue paying the lawyer," he continued narrating in the video. So the owner writes him a $10,000 check. Then, the "squatter" moved out without even cleaning the place up. "That's a good thing because I do a lot of drugs and the house looks every bit of it," the man proudly said. Imagine, getting to live in a house for nine months without paying anything that could have actually cost him three grand a month. He also got incentivized with a huge amount of money when he did not have to pay his lawyers or anything. "I always thought that stealing was wrong but it turns out if you steal a house it's not even against the law here so this couldn't have worked out any better. Thanks, Portland," the man ended the narration. Thanks to your generous support, we are building the infrastructure of human freedom and actively donating our technology to independent publishers, authors and home schooling organizations. Learn about our game-changing non-commercial AI project here. Support our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance human knowledge by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com. Commenters on different platforms doubt the legitimacy of the said video. One user posted on X: "I think he made this video to show you what's been going on and how easy it has been for some to do this. I don't think he actually did this. I would hope not at least." But true or not, they are saying: "Clearly sarcasm on what happens and what people get away with. It's a lesson to listen to!" Meanwhile, some are alarmed by this piece of news. "It's hard to read that in this country a homeowner has to pay a squatter to leave. I've heard of this happening in other states and it's sad," a user said. Squatters can get away with it in Oregon A squatter is a person or group of individuals who occupy vacant land and live there without permission from the legal owner. In some U.S. states, it's completely legal. Worse, squatters can gain ownership of a property through adverse possession. To be considered squatters, people must intend to live on the property and treat it as if it were their own. However, they aren't required to pay rent or comply with the conditions set in a rental agreement. It is somewhat similar to long-term trespassing, but the terms are different. A trespasser could face legal action for a criminal offense. Unless the property manager or owner states that they are not welcome in the unit, squatters' rights are defined by civil regulations. Squatters have some rights. However, if they want to rely on adverse possession to take ownership of a property, they must meet some requirements. Otherwise, their cases could turn into criminal matters since they will be prosecuted as trespassers. In Oregon, there are exceptions to legal repercussions for squatting. Squatters can avoid being prosecuted as criminal trespassers if they beautify an unoccupied or abandoned unit by doing landscaping work, cleaning and more. If one gains access to the property without the owner's permission, he could also avoid legal action for trespassing if there is a legitimate emergency involved. Also, Oregon allows squatters to make an adverse possession claim even if they share the unit with other squatters or tenants, if they meet conditions. (Related: SQUATTERS GALORE: Illegal migrants are now taking over homes of American host families: "How many are coming? We knew nothing!") Check out Deception.news to read more stories on people "exploiting" the system and deceiving people and institutions. Sources for this article include: Original.NewsBreak.com DoorLoop.com Operation Warp Speed was a global military operation that seized control over entire medical and court systems When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency of international concern on January 30, 2020, the United States Department of Defense (DoD) was already prepared to seize control over entire medical and court systems in the U.S. and abroad. In unison, government and public health officials became militant in their responses -- shuttering and controlling the population's movement , assembly, education, worship, free enterprise, etc. U.S. DoD conscripted pharmaceutical companies to carry out destructive medical experiments on the global population Before a causative agent could be identified and isolated for an alleged global pandemic, pharmaceutical companies (Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson) were already being conscripted by the DoD to mass produce a genetic sequence for a new medical experiment that would be fraudulently carried out under the pretense of vaccination. Using manipulation, bribery, subjugation, coercion and force, this DoD program militantly maximized population compliance with this experiment. The U.S. President at the time went along with the program and even bragged about being its architect. Lock downs, stay-at-home orders, the suspension of parental rights, mass distribution of fraudulent testing programs, unlawful mandates and various money laundering operations were used to compel mass obedience to this medical experiment in order to return to normal. This medical experiment was a military operation from the start, and various aspects of it were coordinated in 2019 by members of the World Economic Forum at Event 201. Thanks to your generous support, we are building the infrastructure of human freedom and actively donating our technology to independent publishers, authors and home schooling organizations. Learn about our game-changing non-commercial AI project here. Support our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance human knowledge by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com. This pre-planned vaccine program was designed to reprogram the protein synthesis of human cells, introducing the lab-engineered spike proteins into the human body (with catastrophic results). The pharmaceutical companies were just pawns in a grander scheme of population control. Their so-called vaccines were granted emergency use authorization without proper animal testing, while causing various medical injuries during the botched 2020-2021 rollout. The ineffectiveness of this program was realized a year later, when a two-dose protocol for full vaccination was scrapped and replaced with multiple boosters. U.S. DoD seized Australian institutions to implement global medical experiment The DoD used Operation Warp Speed to seize control over other countrys health institutions. For example, Australia's entire public health and medical infrastructure was seized, and citizens were forced to live in a medical Apartheid, with quarantine camps. A group of Australian scientists, doctors and medical academics are now calling out the DoD for seizing Australias institutions. The group, led by Phillip Altman, claim that the U.S. DoD had a dominant role in the response to the SARs CoV2 virus and the subsequent development, manufacture and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines. The DoD manufactured these biological weapons for mass distribution as vaccines. The DoD not only managed distribution, but they also owned the vials and designed the sham clinical trials. Even though Pfizer engaged in mass medical malfeasance, the multinational corporation claims they are protected by the DoD because they were just one of the companies who were paid by the DoD to conduct large scale manufacturing demonstrations. A Pfizer lawsuit claims the company is immune from malfeasance claims because the DoD knew these large-scale manufacturing demonstrations were fraudulent. All the vaccine manufacturers lacked the capacity to produce the injections on their own and therefore depended on the oversight of the DoDs Operation Warp Speed program. The DoD created the impression that normal regulatory processes were followed during the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines; however, the program bypassed fundamental regulatory frameworks just to force the products on the global population. The DoD also subverted the rule of law, guaranteeing that their operation was shielded from liability. Their pharmaceutical counterparts were granted an immunity shield in their contracts with governments around the globe. By poising their operation above the law, the DoD and regulatory authorities deceived the public about safe and effective vaccines. Government officials repeatedly assured the citizenry that there was adequate oversight to ensure safety and efficacy, even though the medical experiment was being carried out on populations in real time, with no scientific standards or integrity. Altman and his co-authors claim that the U.S. militarys involvement in this global medical experiment was a clandestine operation, and the American and Australian people do not fully understand the planning that went into it and the lack of oversight that occurred during a militant experimental vaccine rollout that yielded vast medical errors. The U.S. DoD clearly perceived a threat to national security and all decisions from that point onward to the present day were subject to full command and control from them, they write. Many adverse consequences have been the outcome of this secret military response to a public health matter. The coverup of SARS-CoV-2 origins by government officials, the NIH, the FBI, the DoD, the CIA, the corporate media and the Silicon Valley censors, has everything to do with covering up this planned global military experiment on populations around the globe. The question now is: What multinational organizations infiltrated and pressured the DoD to carry out this global medical experiment? Why was the U.S. military turned against itself and forced to injure populations and purge its most courageous and healthy service members? Sources include: Expose-News.com Expose-News.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com HHS.gov [PDF] TheEpochTimes.com TV drug ads are not about selling more pharmaceuticals; theyre about Big Pharma BUYING OFF the media All those obnoxious pharmaceutical commercials that get laced into just about every television and cable "news" program that airs in the United States these days might seem like they are simply about selling more drugs and getting people hooked, but Big Pharma's true agenda is actually much more sinister than that. Former pharmaceutical industry insider Calley Means spoke to Tucker Carlson recently about what he described as an "open secret" within the pharmaceutical industry. In essence, Means says that Big Pharma is buying the media with all those ads, which allows the drug industry to control what gets broadcasted on television and across the internet. "You're saying that pharma buys TV spots not to convince people to ask for specific drugs from their physicians, but to subvert the news business?" Carlson asked Means during the segment. "This is an open secret working for pharma," Means responded. "The kind of silly ads you see between the news breaks, the point of that is not it's largely to impact the customer. But pharma has already got that. They've already bought off the doctors. They're good on that." "The news ad spending from pharma is a public relations lobbying tactic, essentially to buy off the news," Means continued. "They're not investigating pharma. The news has become basically a referee. That you are a terrible anti-science luddite for asking why the shots that we require our kids to get, that fundamentally by their own advertising change the immune system of that child for life." The full interview is available for viewing below: We are building the infrastructure of human freedom and empowering people to be informed, healthy and aware. Learn about our free, downloadable AI tools on nutrition, health and preparedness at this article link. Every purchase at HealthRangerStore.com helps fund our efforts to build and share more tools for empowering humanity with knowledge and abundance. Watch the full interview below:pic.twitter.com/IvQkQTwa9a The Vigilant Fox ? (@VigilantFox) February 3, 2024 (Related: When a pharmaceutical product no longer generates high profits for its licensed use, Big Pharma simply rebrands it to generate a new high-profit cash cow.) American media controlled by Big Pharma Functioning as referees, Big Pharma-controlled media outlets basically steer the conversation about a given matter in favor of drugs and vaccines while denigrating any and all who question them, including media talking-heads and personalities who almost always shill for the pharmaceutical industry. The news referees questions about Big Pharma "when the two largest vaccine makers in the country are literally criminal enterprises. GlaxoSmithKline and Merck, in the past five years, have settled two of the largest criminal penalties in American corporate history for bribing doctors and creating misleading research," Means further revealed. "So, you literally have the media playing referee so that you can't even ask a question." The tens of thousands, if not millions, of Americans who were injured by Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccines" are having a really tough time getting their stories told on the "news" for precisely this reason because to tell such stories is equated as being "anti-science," according to the pharma-controlled media. Keep in mind that the U.S. is something of an anomaly when it comes to drug advertising. In most other countries, advertising prescription drugs directly to consumers is illegal, which is why non-U.S. news is typically more honest and hard-hitting. Consider the Bangkok Post, a popular media source out of Thailand that recently ran a story about the dangers of COVID injections. Such a story would never be published by the so-called "legacy" media here in the United States because drug companies would likely retaliate by defunding U.S. media sources in retaliation. When the regulated become unregulated, the media become the salesmen, and the scientists become the malevolent Corporations and government become indistinguishable. pic.twitter.com/9zFzHzIogb ZNO ?? (@therealZNO) December 29, 2023 The latest news about Big Pharma's controlling influence over the "news" can be found at BadMedicine.news. Sources for this article include: Twitter.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com OBVIOUS HIT PIECE: WSJ claims that anonymous sources say Elon Musk is an illegal drug addict The cushy government contracts that generate billions of dollars in profits for electric vehicle (EV) guru Elon Musk may be questioned after the ran a hit piece on Musk accusing him of being an illegal drug addict. The article, which relies heavily on "anonymous sources," claims there are many "people who have witnessed his drug use and others with knowledge of it," this claim catching the eye of executives and board members at Musk-owned companies like Tesla and SpaceX. According to the claims, Musk, the "world's wealthiest person," has used illicit substances such as LSD, cocaine, ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms on numerous occasions, including at private parties he attends all around the world. But the WSJ offers no real evidence of its claims. Attendees at such parties are only allowed to enter if they agree to sign nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) or hand over their smartphones before entering, this according to "people who have witnessed his drug use and others with knowledge of it." In 2018, Musk allegedly took multiple tablets of acid at a party he attended in Los Angeles. A year later in 2019, Musk partied on magic mushrooms at an event in Mexico. Again in 2021, Musk reportedly took ketamine recreationally with his brother, Kimbal Musk, at a Miami house party during Art Basel. The WSJ repeated rumors that Musk has taken illegal drugs with Steve Jurvetson, a former Tesla board member and current SpaceX board member. (Related: After buying out the Twitter social media platform [now known as X], Musk hired World Economic Forum [WEF] globalist Linda Yaccarino as its new CEO.) Thanks to your generous support, we are building the infrastructure of human freedom and actively donating our technology to independent publishers, authors and home schooling organizations. Learn about our game-changing non-commercial AI project here. Support our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance human knowledge by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com. Does the WSJ have it out for Musk? The alleged years of Musk's illegal drug use extend even further back than all that, the Journal article continues, providing no specific details about Musk's alleged use of cocaine and ecstasy. As far as Musk's ketamine use, the 52-year-old billionaire says he was prescribed the drug by a doctor for depression, adding that it works better than the antidepressant pharmaceuticals that are "zombifying" patients. Some readers will recall Musk's 2018 appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast, during which he famously took a "hit" of cannabis. Since cannabis has largely been decriminalized or legalized at the state level, Musk's use of it was not necessarily illicit, depending on where it occurred. Musk is supposedly "regularly and randomly drug tested at SpaceX and has never failed a test," according to his lawyer, who says there are "other false facts" laced throughout the Journal expose though he did not specify the nature of these "other false facts." When asked by the Journal which drugs Musk is screened for in his random and routine drug tests at SpaceX, Musk's lawyer reportedly did not respond. Former Tesla director Linda Johnson Rice was reportedly so fed up with Musk's unpredictable behavior and alleged rampant drug use that she opted out of pursuing reelection in 2019 this according to "people familiar with the matter," and not Rice herself. One of the examples presented in the Journal piece to back this claim about Rice involves an "all-hands" meeting of SpaceX executives that occurred in 2017. Musk reportedly showed up an hour late, only to proceed to slur his words in a rambling speech filled with vulgarities. SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell allegedly had to intervene and take over the meeting from Musk, with executives later speculating that Musk showed up to the meeting in a drug-addled state that caused him to behave in a "nonsensical," "unhinged," and "cringeworthy" way. A similar incident occurred in 2018 when Musk took to then-Twitter and announced plans to take the firm private, bragging that he had "funding secured." Musk made the announcement during market hours, prompting investors to claim that he had misled them. More related news can be found at ElonMuskWatch.com. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com NaturalNews.com Invasive riverine fish are starting to take over American rivers and other similar bodies of water worldwide, threatening native species and their aquatic ecosystems. This comes after scientists found that the increasing number of invasive fish species has contributed to the increase of diversity of riverine fish across the globe over the decades. These new findings are based on a new study led by researchers in the United Kingdom and the United States. The growing threat of non-native species can disturb the ecological balance of a particular riverine, which includes rivers, streams, tributaries, creeks, and canals. In previous studies, evidence shows that local fish and other native aquatic animal populations face serious competition for food and other resources against invasive species. Furthermore, indigenous riverine fish can also be directly killed by non-native fish. There are several reported reasons why Earth's riverine environments have been visited or dominated by invasive fish species, which the new research paper revealed in late January 2024. Aside from natural factors, human activities that harm aquatic habitats have paved the way for the introduction of non-native species, either intentionally or by accident. This anthropogenic threat impacts freshwater systems. Invasive Riverine Fish Increases Findings about the global increase of invasive riverine fish, including on US rivers, was published in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution on January 30, with the paper entitled 'Past and recent anthropogenic pressures drive rapid changes in riverine fish communities.' Authors of the study are from the University of Sheffield in the UK, the University of Tennessee, University of Washington, and Illinois State University. The US and UK research team found a significant spike in the population and diversity of riverine species across the planet over the past 30 years. Another finding pertains to the increase in fish species living in rivers, which are concentrated in most degraded areas. Although the team found positive trends in riverine fish communities, the threat posed by invasive fish on non-native species is still a growing concern. Also Read: 5 Invasive Fish in NC Listed by Officials Under Aquatic Nuisance Species (2023) Native Fish at Risk In a news release earlier in February, the University of Sheffield implies that native fish are at risk due to the surprising trends in the "abundance and species richness" of riverine fish in related freshwater systems across the globe. Based on their conclusion, the researchers uncovered an average increase in fish community abundance of 13% per decade, while noting a 7% increase in species richness. The findings contradict the ongoing thought or common scientific belief that increases in species richness and abundance in such systems were due to recent improvements in water quality in industrialized regions. However, academics from the US and UK universities stressed that the increase in river fish biodiversity is not because of ecosystem recovery, which was previously thought. Instead, the phenomenon is the result of the growing dominance of non-native species. Related Article: Invasive Fish Preying on Threatened Species in Lake Powell to be Eradicated as Water Levels Fall Antarctica is a land of extremes. It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent on Earth. It is also home to some of the most bizarre and fascinating creatures in the world. Among them are the giant Antarctic sea spiders, also known as pycnogonids. These arachnids are not related to the spiders we know, but rather to an ancient group of marine animals that dates back to the Cambrian period, over 500 million years ago. A team of researchers from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa decided to solve this mystery once and for all. They embarked on a daring expedition to the frozen continent, where they braved the elements and dived into the icy waters to observe and document the behaviors of these enigmatic animals. Their findings were published in the journal Nature in February 2024, and they revealed some surprising and fascinating insights into the hidden world of giant Antarctic sea spiders. How Sea Spiders Mate in the Cold One of the biggest challenges for sea spiders in Antarctica is finding a mate. The water temperature can drop below -2C, and the sea ice can cover up to 90% of the surface area. This makes it difficult for the animals to locate and communicate with each other. To overcome this obstacle, the researchers discovered that the sea spiders use a variety of strategies, such as chemical cues, visual signals, and tactile interactions. The researchers found that the sea spiders release pheromones, or chemical substances, into the water to attract potential partners. They also use their bright colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, to stand out from the background and signal their readiness to mate. Additionally, they use their long legs to touch and explore each other, and to form pairs or groups. Once a pair is formed, the researchers observed that the sea spiders engage in a complex and prolonged mating ritual. The male wraps his legs around the female and inserts his sperm into her genital opening, located on the fourth pair of legs. The sperm then travels through a tube to the ovaries, where the eggs are fertilized. The fertilization process can take up to several hours, and the pair remains attached throughout. How Sea Spiders Care for Their Young Another challenge for sea spiders in Antarctica is caring for their young. The water temperature is too cold for the eggs to develop on their own, and the predators are too abundant for the eggs to be left unguarded. To overcome this challenge, the researchers discovered that the sea spiders exhibit a remarkable form of parental care, unlike any other arachnid. The researchers found that the sea spiders transfer the eggs from the female to the male after fertilization. The male then carries the eggs on his legs, sometimes up to 2,000 at a time, and protects them until they hatch. The male also provides oxygen and nutrients to the eggs by moving his legs and exposing them to the water currents. The male does not feed or mate during this period, which can last up to several months. The researchers also found that the sea spiders have a unique way of dealing with the changing seasons. During the winter, when the sea ice covers most of the surface, the male sea spiders migrate to deeper waters, where the temperature is more stable and the predators are less frequent. They also enter a state of dormancy, or reduced metabolic activity, to conserve energy and prolong their survival. During the summer, when the sea ice melts and the food becomes more abundant, the male sea spiders return to the shallower waters, where they release the hatchlings and resume feeding and mating. Also Read: New Study Sheds Light on How the Growth of Antarctic Fish is Limited Certain Temperatures Why Sea Spiders Matter for Antarctica and Beyond The researchers concluded that the giant Antarctic sea spiders are a remarkable example of how life can adapt and thrive in extreme environments. They also highlighted the importance of these animals for the Antarctic ecosystem and the global climate. The sea spiders are not only predators, but also prey for other animals, such as fish, seals, and penguins. They also play a role in the carbon cycle, by consuming organic matter and releasing carbon dioxide into the water, which can then be absorbed by the sea ice and the atmosphere. The researchers also warned that the sea spiders are vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as warming, acidification, and pollution of the ocean. These factors could disrupt their mating, reproduction, and survival, and have cascading consequences for the Antarctic food web and the global carbon balance. The giant Antarctic sea spiders are a biological marvel, a polar gigantism unleashed, and a hidden world waiting to be explored. They are a testament to the diversity and resilience of life on Earth, and a reminder of the fragility and interconnectedness of our planet. They are a mystery that has been solved, but also a mystery that remains. Related article: Recently Discovered Fossil Site Reveals that Giant Arthropods May Have Ruled the Depths 470 Million Years Ago Climate change is an ongoing societal issue since it threatens current flora and fauna as of the 21st century. In recent decades, scientists have warned that some ways to mitigate the impacts of the climatic phenomenon is to reduce or stop harmful anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, as well as fossil fuel burning. This natural environmental, and ecological problem has long been thought to be only addressed by human means. Now, recent research has found a groundbreaking alternative to combat climate change: viruses found in ocean water and Arctic ice. Through human intervention, scientists are considering the potential capabilities of hundreds of thousands of DNA and RNA virus species in the world's oceans. They theorize that these pathogens can help trap carbon dioxide in seawater and reduce or prevent the release of methane gas. Both carbon and methane are harmful greenhouse gases that accelerate the natural process of the greenhouse effect. This phenomenon warms the planet due to the absorption of solar radiation caused by the trapped gases in the atmosphere. While viruses are often known for causing diseases, the research sheds light on the potential role of ocean microbiome against anthropogenic climate change. Underwater Carbon Metabolism Researchers from Ohio State University in the United States led by microbiology professor Matthew Sullivan are conducting an ongoing study regarding the potential role of viruses in ocean water and Arctic ice. Sullivan's team is identifying multiple virus species that are capable of underwater carbon metabolism. This biological process allows viruses to consume carbon dioxide and, in turn, reduce its amount in the Earth's atmosphere. So far, the Ohio university academics have already identified 128 viruses that possess the desired metabolic trait, which is not possessed by all microorganisms. By engineering these viruses, the researchers hope that the pathogens not only can trap carbon in oceans but also prevent methane from escaping from thawing Arctic ice. With the help of artificial intelligence, scientists can engineer the ocean microbiome. Also Read: Mosquitoes and Viruses: How Environmental DNA Can Help Monitor the Spread of Invasive Species Engineering Ocean Microbiome Sullivan presented their research about engineering ocean microbiome to fight climate change on February 17 during an annual meeting in Denver, Colorado, organized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The ongoing research was presented under the context that the roles and drivers of microbes in complex ecosystems were poorly understood to be effectively managed. Now, as the scientific community recently mapped these microorganisms, the goal of the research is to engineer these viruses and microbial communities to potentially stabilize Earth's climate by absorbing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The groundbreaking discovery of hidden virus capabilities could also help with current efforts to curb climate change, such as countries that are members of the United Nations-led 2015 Paris Agreement. Currently, marine viruses are the most plentiful biological organisms found on Earth's oceans. Their population can reach as many as 10 million in a single teaspoon of seawater, according to the Australian Government's Australian Institute of Marine Science. Related Article: Mosquitoes and Viruses: How Environmental DNA Can Help Monitor the Spread of Invasive Species The UK is facing a serious threat of flooding as the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for rain, covering most of the country from midnight to midday today. The warning indicates a high likelihood of heavy rainfall, which could cause widespread damage and disruption to homes, businesses, and transport networks. The south-west of England and Wales are expected to be the hardest hit, with up to three inches of rain forecasted in some areas. This article will explore how the UK is preparing for this unprecedented weather event, and what the potential impacts could be. Emergency Services and Resources on Standby One of the main challenges posed by the impending floods is the strain on the emergency services and resources, which need to be ready to respond to any situation that may arise. The Environment Agency has issued more than 100 flood alerts and warnings across the country, urging people to take action and stay safe. The agency has also deployed teams to operate flood defences, clear blockages, and monitor river levels. The National Flood Forum, a charity that supports people at risk of flooding, has advised people to prepare an emergency kit, check their insurance, and move valuables to higher ground. The forum has also warned people to avoid driving or walking through floodwater, as it could be contaminated or hide hidden dangers. The government has activated the Bellwin scheme, which provides financial assistance to local authorities that incur extra costs due to emergencies. The scheme covers 100% of the eligible costs above a threshold, which varies depending on the population of the area. The government has also pledged to support the affected communities and businesses, and to work closely with the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Also Read: UK Weather Update: Met Office Warns of Dangerous Snow, Ice Conditions; Flood Warnings Reported Met Office Issues Warning as 'Wall of Rain' Set to Hit Today The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, covering most of the country from midnight to midday today. The warning indicates a high likelihood of heavy rainfall, which could cause widespread damage and disruption to homes, businesses, and transport networks. The south-west of England and Wales are expected to be the hardest hit, with up to three inches of rain forecasted in some areas. The warning comes as a 'wall of rain' is set to sweep across the country, as shown by the weather map in the image below. The image also depicts a car driving through a flooded road, causing water splashes. This illustrates the danger of driving or walking through floodwater, as it could be contaminated or hide hidden dangers. Scores of flood warnings and alerts are in place this morning, urging people to take action and stay safe. The Environment Agency has advised people to check their flood risk, prepare an emergency kit, and move valuables to higher ground. The agency has also deployed teams to operate flood defences, clear blockages, and monitor river levels. The floods are a stark reminder of the effects of climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. The UK has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 68% by 2030, and by 78% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels. The UK is also hosting the COP26 summit in Glasgow later this year, where it hopes to galvanize global action on climate change. However, the floods show that the UK also needs to invest more in adaptation and resilience measures, to cope with the inevitable impacts of a changing climate. Related article: UK Weather: Heavy Rain Triggers More Than 150 Flood Alerts According to a PR published by Fincantieri on February 21, 2024, EDGE Group, a Emirati entity in technology and defense, and the shipbuilding Fincantieri have announced the launch of a groundbreaking joint venture (JV). Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link EDGE Group CEO, Hamad Al Marar and CEO Fincantieri, Pierroberto Folgiero. (Picture source: Fincantieri) This collaboration, valued at an astounding 30 billion euros, aims to seize global shipbuilding opportunities, focusing on the production of a wide array of sophisticated naval vessels. With EDGE Group holding a 51% majority stake and Fincantieri providing management expertise, the JV is set to revolutionize the naval defense sector. The partnership was officially sealed in Rome, Italy, underscoring the strategic alliance between these two industry giants. The JV, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is poised to become a prime contender for non-NATO orders, benefiting from the strategic advantages of UAE's government-to-government arrangements and attractive export credit financing packages. Additionally, it has secured strategic orders from select NATO member countries, showcasing its global reach and ambition. This JV is not just a business venture but a platform for innovation and knowledge exchange in the maritime industry, aiming to enhance EDGE's capabilities in designing and building frigates and other large vessels. Furthermore, it hints at future endeavors into underwater programs, including mid-size submarines, marking a significant expansion in EDGE's maritime solutions portfolio. This collaboration is expected to set new benchmarks in shipbuilding, emphasizing the creation of joint intellectual property and future designs. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil Corporation Darren Woods 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. "Dear Mr. President, On behalf of Exxon Mobil Cooperation, I would like to offer my warm congratulations on your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. I send you my best wishes for your continued success, as well as for the prosperity and well-being of the people of Azerbaijan. Under your leadership, I am confident that Azerbaijan will continue to play its leading role in the oil and gas sector. ExxonMobil values its longstanding energy collaboration with Azerbaijan. Together we can help meet the worlds need for reliable and affordable energy, while working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This dual challenge will be at the forefront of COP29 deliberations and I extend my best wishes to the Republic of Azerbaijan in hosting this critical global dialogue. Congratulations again and I wish you and the people of Azerbaijan a bright future," the letter reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Chairman of the Board of Directors of Leonardo S.p.A. of Italy, Stefano Pontecorvo 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, On my own behalf and on behalf of the Leonardo Company, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on the occasion of your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Thanks to your extensive experience and professional skills I am sure that the friendly relations between Italy and Azerbaijan will continue to develop further in a context of friendship and cooperation. As you embark on this new chapter of your career, I wish Your Excellency prosperity and continued success. Leonardo takes great pride in its positive and continuous relations with your country, and rest assured that our company remains committed to ensure that such positive relations will extend. Looking forward to meeting you personally, please accept the assurance of my highest consideration and esteem," the letter reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Naim Jahidzada has been appointed as head of the Executive Authority of Sadarak district of Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Trend reports. The relevant decree was signed by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "Acting in accordance with Article 141 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I hereby decree: To appoint Naim Jahidzada as Head of the Executive Authority of Sadarak district of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic," the decree reads. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Anshuman Malhotra gets candid about his role in 'Dillogical': It's quite relatable Mumbai, Feb 20 Actor Anshuman Malhotra, who essays the role of Saransh in 'Dillogical' has shed light on his role and shared how the show will prove to be quite relatable to many. Their relationship takes a sudden turn when Jinal embarks on a journey of independence and self-discovery while dealing with the pressures from her family and her long-standing fears. Their love is also put to the test amidst the complexities of an open relationship, with some deep realizations along the way. Shedding some light on Saransh and Jinals profound bond, Anshuman shared: "The bond shared by Saransh and Jinal is very pure. They are not only childhood friends but also madly in love with each other; wanting to be with each other all the time. But sometimes, as you grow up and meet other people, you end up having a crush on someone else." "You keep thinking about why youre developing feelings for somebody else after being with someone for so long. Eventually, you have to decide whom to be with. This show also highlights a similar situation, and it will prove to be quite relatable to many," he said. "For Saransh, this is all very new as his childhood sweetheart proposes an open relationship, and it is completely up to him to figure out how to deal with it. He can either get angry at her or try to understand her situation because he loves her after all." 'Dillogical' is streaming on Amazon miniTV. (IANS - Posted on 20 February 2024) Anshuman Malhotra gets candid about his role in 'Dillogical': It's quite relatable Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Deepika, Ranveer expecting their first child? Mumbai abuzz with speculation Mumbai, Feb 20 Bollywood couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are said to be expecting their first child. This is not the first time, however, that Deepika has been the subject of pregnancy rumours. Not long ago, the actress had shared pictures from promotions of her latest release, 'Fighter', and fans went into a frenzy over whether or not she had a baby bump. Many took to the comments section to ask is she was pregnant. Deepika and Ranveer, who first worked together in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2013 film 'Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela' and reportedly fell in love on the sets of the film, tied the knot on November 14, 2018, at Lake Como, Italy. They again collaborated with Bhansali, and were seen toghether, in 'Bajirao Mastani' and 'Padmaavat'. (IANS - Posted on 20 February 2024) Deepika, Ranveer expecting their first child? Mumbai abuzz with speculation Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Here's what convinced Jimmy Kimmel to host Oscars again Los Angeles, February 21 American TV host and comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who is set to host the 96th ceremony next month, said that he did not expect to return to the Oscars stage. He first hosted the Academy Awards in 2017, when La La Land was accidentally announced as best picture instead of 'Moonlight'. He returned in 2018 and then again last year. "I did two of them, and they went well -- something crazy happened at one of them with a story I'll have for the rest of my life," he said of the 2017 and 2018 gigs. "I know how much work goes into [the Oscars], so I thought, 'Yeah, I don't necessarily want to do this ever again.'" Kimmel stated that much of the difficulties of presenting the Oscars stem from talking about films that his audience has not watched, as per the Hollywood Reporter. In 2017, he said, "I made a joke about Moonlight that made it clear to me that the vast majority of the room had not seen the movie, even though it won Best Picture." Last year, Kimmel said 'Top Gun: Maverick' changed his mind. "I knew there was a movie that people had seen, and it just makes the job easier." Though he expected that would be the end of it, Barbie left him with the same emotion about the 2024 event. "I am sitting in a movie theatre watching Barbie and thinking, 'Well, maybe I'll do this again because at least I have a point of reference with everyone,'" he said. "I always dreamed of hosting the Oscars exactly four times," Kimmel joked when he was named host in November. He is now the fourth-most frequent Academy Awards host in history, trailing only Bob Hope (19), Billy Crystal (9), and Johnny Carson (5). Molly McNearney, Kimmel's wife and co-head writer for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, also serves as an executive producer of the show. The 96th Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC on March 10 from the Dolby Theatre. (ANI - Posted on 21 February 2024) Here's what convinced Jimmy Kimmel to host Oscars again Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Emraan Hashmi denies being part of 'Don 3' Mumbai, February 21 Actor Emraan Hashmi dismissed on Wednesday rumours of him being a part of Farhan Akhtar's 'Don 3'. There was speculation that Emraan would play the role of a villain in the upcoming Don. However, with Emraan's post, it has become clear that someone else is cast as the antagonist in the film. Meanwhile, Kiara Advani has recently joined Ranveer Singh in 'Don 3'. In August 2023, Farhan had in a special announcement video revealed that Ranveer Singh will be the new Don in the third film of the hit franchise. In the teaser, Ranveer was seen seated in a building with his back to the camera. He lit up a cigarette, introduced himself as Don, and then turned to face the camera. He wore a leather jacket and matching pants for the dapper look and accessorized it with leather boots and matching sunglasses. Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan played the character in the earlier versions. The 'Don' series has always been associated with compelling stories, exhilarating action, and unforgettable moments.'Don' starred Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra and Boman Irani in prominent roles. The film was released in 2006 and won Best Asian Film at the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival. Later, its sequel was released in 2011 and was declared a hit.Actor Hrithik Roshan was seen in a special appearance role in 'Don 2'. Farhan's directorial was a remake of 1978's 'Don', featuring Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role. (ANI - Posted on 21 February 2024) Emraan Hashmi denies being part of 'Don 3' Found this article helpful? Spread the word and support us! Champaign, IL (61820) Today Snow flurries this morning will give way to partly cloudy skies during the day. High 39F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Mainly clear. Low 26F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on conscription of citizens of Azerbaijan for compulsory active military service from April 1 to April 30, 2024, and dismissal of servicemen of compulsory active military service to the reserve, Trend reports. "Guided by paragraph 26 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in accordance with Articles 12.3 and 40.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On military duty and military service" and in order to complete the personnel of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I hereby decree: 1. To call citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan born in 2006, who turned 18 years old by the day of call-up (including this day), as well as citizens born in 1989-2005, aged up to 35 years old, who have not completed compulsory active military service, who have no privilege of deferment from call-up to compulsory active military service or who are not exempted from call-up to compulsory active military service in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan, to compulsory active military service from April 1 to April 30, 2024. 2. To dismiss to the reserve the servicemen of compulsory active military service who have passed the term of service stipulated in Article 38.1.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On military duty and military service" from April 1 to April 30, 2024. 3. Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan to take measures stipulated by the legislation for execution of the decree," the decree reads. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Older people may be at greater risk of developing pancreatic cancer and have poorer prognoses because of age-related changes in cells in the pancreas called fibroblasts, according to research led by investigators from the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Bloomberg~Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy. The study, published online Feb. 8 in Cancer Research, provides clues as to why pancreatic cancer is more common and aggressive in older people. It may also help scientists develop new therapeutic approaches for this difficult-to-treat cancer. The study showed that aging alters fibroblasts in ways that enable them to promote pancreatic cancer tumor growth. Older fibroblasts release proteins that directly affect pancreatic cancer cells and ultimately lead to the growth and spread of pancreatic cancer tumors. The younger fibroblasts did not have these capabilities. We think this is a key reason why we see pancreatic cancer more commonly in older patients." Daniel Zabransky, M.D., Ph.D., study's lead author, assistant professor of oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Zabransky and his colleagues compared samples of pancreatic fibroblasts from patients older than 55 with pancreatic fibroblasts from patients younger than 35. They discovered that the cells from older patients behave very differently than younger ones. To find out why, they compared the proteins released by the younger and older cells and noted profound differences. They determined that a critical change in older pancreatic fibroblasts is that they release more of a protein called growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15). When the team treated young mice with pancreatic tumors with GDF-15, it caused the tumors to grow more rapidly, just as they do in older mice. Older mice that were genetically engineered to lack the gene encoding GDF-15 had reduced pancreatic tumor growth. Experiments in human cells and mouse models revealed that GDF-15 activates the AKT signaling pathway in an age-dependent manner. The discovery was a surprise because the AKT pathway is typically not very active in mouse models of pancreatic cancer, Zabransky says. However, most studies look only at young mice. Experimental drugs already exist that inhibit the AKT pathway. When the team tested AKT-inhibiting drugs in mouse models of pancreatic cancer, they found the drugs reduced tumor growth in mice with aged fibroblasts. However, it had no effect in mice with young fibroblasts. Zabransky and his colleagues next plan to study age-related changes in other cells found in pancreatic cancer tumors, including immune cells, and their impact on pancreatic cancer. Previous work by senior study author Ashani Weeraratna, Ph.D., co-chair of the Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Program and associate director for laboratory research for the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, demonstrated the importance of age-related changes in melanoma, a finding the team has now extended to pancreatic cancer. Weeraratna also is the E.V. McCollum Professor and chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and a professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "We have very few treatment options for pancreatic cancer," Weeraratna says. "Trying to understand how the aging microenvironment contributes to pancreatic cancer progression might open up new avenues for therapies." "Precision cancer therapy just got more complicated," adds study co-author Elizabeth Jaffee, M.D., deputy director of the cancer center, co-director of the gastrointestinal cancers program, and the Dana and Albert "Cubby" Broccoli Professor of Oncology at Johns Hopkins. "This work by Dr. Zabransky and his team points out for the first time in pancreatic cancer that there are aging-specific signals in tumors that may need to be modulated to realize the potential of current and future treatments for this deadly disease." Zabransky says age-related changes may also be critical in other types of cancers. He noted scientists test most cancer drugs in young mice, and drugs that target age-specific cancerous changes may not work in these young mouse models. It also may be vital to examine the results of clinical trials of cancer drugs to see if the effects vary in different age groups, he says. Other study co-authors were Yash Chhabra, Mitchell E. Fane, Emma Kartalia, James L. Leatherman, Laura Huser, Jacquelyn W. Zimmerman, Todd D. Armstrong, Soren Charmsaz, Samantha Guinn, Sneha Pramod and Elizabeth D. Thompson of Johns Hopkins. Other authors were from the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia; the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, Germany; the University Medical Center Mannheim and Ruprecht-Karl University of Heidelberg in Mannheim, Germany; the Stanford School of Medicine in California; the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville; and the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore. The study was supported in part by the National Institutes of Health (grants T32 5T32CA009071, U01CA227550, P01CA114048, R01CA207935, K99CA263017, P01CA247886, P01CA114046, U01CA227550, and R01CA232256), a Conquer Cancer Foundation/ASCO Young Investigator Award, a MacMillan Pathway to Independence Award, the MD Anderson GI SPORE, the Maryland Cancer Moonshot Research Grant to the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions (FY24), a Lustgarten Foundation Cancer Convergence Grant, and a Team Science Award from the Melanoma Research Alliance. Zabransky and Zimmerman receive support from Roche and Genentech. Jaffee receives personal fees from Achilles, Dragon Fly, Parker Institute, Surge, Mestag, and Medical Group Home; grants from Lustgarten, Genentech, BMS, and Breakthrough Cancer; and other support from Abmeta and Adventris. Weeraratna serves on the board of Regain Therapeutics. These relationships are managed by The Johns Hopkins University in accordance with its conflict-of-interest policies. Hepatoblastoma (HB) is the most common liver cancer in children. Researchers and physicians in the field are concerned because in the last decade HB has been rising rapidly worldwide and has seen the most rapid increase among all pediatric solid tumors. A team led by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine has been working on improving therapies for this devastating disease. They recently reported in the Journal of Hepatology a novel treatment strategy that produced encouraging results in animal models. "High-risk disease leads to high rates of relapse and mortality," said first author Dr. Andres F. Espinoza, general surgery resident in Baylor's Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery. "In this study, we investigated the potential benefits of a new combination therapy that included an inhibitor of the enzyme histone deacetylase (HDAC) present at elevated levels in HB cells," Espinoza said. "Previous studies have suggested that HDAC inhibitors may provide treatment options for HB, but there is no published preclinical data on such therapies." To assess the effects of the novel combination therapy, the researchers developed a preclinical testing pipeline with clinically relevant HB models. Identifying an effective new combination therapy First, the researchers tested several HDAC inhibitors on their ability to kill patient-derived HB cell lines grown in the lab. They found that HDAC inhibitor panobinostat was the most effective at eliminating cancer cells. The team then tested whether adding panobinostat to current chemotherapy regimens would improve tumor response. They screened these treatments in patient-derived spheroids, spherical cellular aggregates derived from human tumor samples. Their results show that adding panobinostat to the combination treatment including vincristine and irinotecan eliminated more tumor cells than any of the other combinations. Finally, they tested the new combination therapy of vincristine, irinotecan and panobinostat (VIP) in four aggressive animal models of HB the researchers had derived from high-risk, relapsed and treatment refractory HBs. The molecular characterization of these tumors in the animal models showed that they conserved all mutations found in the human tumors of origin as well as other molecular markers present in patient tumor samples. This indicated that the tumors in the animal models closely matched those in the patients. Importantly, in contrast to other studies that tested treatments on small-sized tumors, this study tested VIP in large tumors. After just one week of therapy, the tumors that were treated with VIP had a significant decrease in volume and alpha fetoprotein levels, the tumor marker. These findings are very encouraging as they suggest that VIP therapy may be a promising and effective option for patients with currently untreatable high-risk, relapsed or refractory HB." Dr. Sanjeev A. Vasudevan, corresponding author, associate professor of surgery at Baylor Other contributors to this work include: Roma H. Patel, Kalyani R. Patel, Andrew A. Badachhape, Richard Whitlock, Rohit K. Srivastava, Saiabhiroop R. Govindu, Ashley Duong, Abhishek Kona, Pavan Kureti, Bryan Armbruster, Dina Kats, Ramakrishnan R. Srinivasan, Lacey E. Dobrolecki, Xinjian Yu, Mohammad J. Najaf Panah, Barry Zorman, Stephen F. Sarabia, Martin Urbicain, Angela Major, Karl-Dimiter Bissig, Charles Keller, Michael T. Lewis, Andras Heczey, Pavel Sumazin, Dolores H. Lopez-Terrada and Sarah E. Woodfield. The authors are affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Children's Cancer Therapy Development Institute at Beaverton or Duke University. This work was supported by a U.S. Department of Defense Career Development Award (W81XWH-21-1-0396 /CD201061), a Baylor College of Medicine Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery Faculty Research Award, a Macy Easom Cancer Research Foundation Grant, a Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Multi-Investigator Research Award (RP180674), a P30 Cancer Center Support Grant NCI-CA125123, a CPRIT Core Facilities Support Grant RP220646 and an NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Individual Postdoctoral Fellowship (1F32CA278313-01). In a recent study published in the journal Nature Mental Health, a group of researchers investigated how physical activity serves as a compensatory mechanism for the adverse effects of social isolation on mental health using electronic diaries, accelerometry, and neuroimaging. Study: Real-life behavioral and neural circuit markers of physical activity as a compensatory mechanism for social isolation Background Social isolation and loneliness are as lethal as significant health risks like obesity, heavy drinking, or smoking 15 cigarettes a day, significantly impairing emotional well-being, damaging emotion-regulating brain networks, and increasing the risk of mood disorders. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has heightened the need for interventions against the adverse effects of social distancing on mental health. Physical activity, beneficial for emotional well-being and linked to crucial brain areas for emotion regulation, presents a promising solution. However, further research is required to understand the mechanisms, refine interventions, and ensure their effectiveness across different groups. About the study The present study was precisely designed to adhere to the ethical standards of medical research, in line with the Declaration of Helsinki 2013 version. Conducted at Heidelberg University's Medical Faculty Mannheim, the institutional review board approved the research, with all participants providing written informed consent. To compensate for their time and effort, participants were offered monetary rewards. The research involved two phases: the main study and a replication study. The participants comprised a diverse group of 317 healthy young adults aged 1828, recruited between September 2014 and November 2018, and a replication sample of 30 healthy adults aged 1863, recruited from December 2019 to July 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. These individuals, selected to represent a broad demographic, participated in the study by wearing accelerometers to track physical activity and using smartphone-based electronic diaries to record social contacts and emotional states. In addition to behavioral data, a subset of participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans to analyze brain function, particularly focusing on the Default Mode Network (DMN), a neural marker associated with social isolation and depression risk. The team determined the adequacy of their final sample size (n = 317) for detecting expected effects by referencing recent simulation studies, which indicated a requirement of at least 200 participants for sufficient statistical power. Data analysis involved sophisticated statistical software and methodologies to explore the complex relationships between social contact, physical activity, and emotional well-being. This included both within-participant effects and between-participant predictors of loneliness, utilizing advanced multilevel modeling techniques. Brain function data, specifically DMN connectivity, was also analyzed as a factor. Study results In the study, the relationship between momentary social isolation and decreased affective valence was significantly moderated by individuals' physical activity. Specifically, engaging in higher levels of physical activity was found to substantially mitigate the negative impact of social isolation on affective well-being. The research suggested that an average of 349 milli-g (1 milli-g is one 1 thousandth of a G (the force of gravity on Earth's surface) of physical activity over the course of an hour, equivalent to walking at a pace of approximately three miles per hour, was necessary to counteract the adverse effects of social isolation on mood in daily life. This compensatory effect of physical activity on mood was consistently replicated in a second sample observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, further reinforcing the initial findings. At the neurobiological level, the study revealed that individuals with higher resting-state functional connectivity within the DMN were particularly adept at compensating for momentary social-affective deficits through physical activity. This relationship underscored the potential of physical activity as a powerful compensatory mechanism for those at greater psychological and neurobiological risk of experiencing loneliness and depression. Additionally, the study explored the benefits of physical activity from a between-individual perspective, correlating it with established psychological risk factors for mental health issues. Participants with smaller social networks but higher levels of habitual physical activity exhibited lower levels of trait loneliness compared to their less active counterparts. Furthermore, individuals who effectively used physical activity as a compensatory mechanism were found to be less likely to experience frequent feelings of loneliness during the initial COVID-19 lockdown, highlighting the resilience provided by regular physical engagement. Exploratory analyses extended these findings to pandemic conditions, demonstrating that even light physical activity or exercises performed at home could effectively counterbalance the social-affective deficit, offering practical implications for maintaining mental well-being under restrictions like curfews or gym closures. Conclusions To summarize, this study shows that physical activity mitigates the adverse effects of social isolation on mood, using an electronic diary and accelerometer data for a detailed analysis beyond traditional questionnaire-based research. Moderate walking was found to reduce social-affective deficits, even more so in those at higher risk for affective disorders. The findings suggest physical activity as a key strategy for enhancing mental health and guiding interventions post-pandemic. As a proposal to reinstate expanded Child Tax Credits (CTC) in the United States awaits a vote in the Senate, a new study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researchers reveals that the now-expired 2021 CTC expansion benefitted families experiencing financial setbacks due to health or employment challenges spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Published in the journal Health Affairs Scholar, the study found that monthly advance payments included in the 2021 CTC expansion enabled all families with children to afford enough food, but it particularly benefited families with children who experienced economic shocks-;defined as missed work due to illness, furloughs, or job loss-;during the pandemic. These advance payments, which provided an extra $250-$300 per month to the majority of American households with children from July 2021 to December 2021, reduced food insufficiency by 11 percent in families with children experiencing these economic shocks, compared to families who didn't experience the shocks and families without children, the new findings show. Low-income, Black, and Hispanic families reaped the greatest benefits, as these groups were most likely to miss work during the pandemic and least likely to earn paid sick leave. In addition to the monthly cash benefits, the CTC expansion also broadened eligibility to households with low or no income and provided larger credits to families with younger children, under the American Rescue Plan that Congress passed in 2021. Even though the expansion lifted nearly 3 million children out of poverty and reduced food insufficiency by 26 percent among all US households with children, Congress failed to extend the legislation at the end of 2021, and the benefits returned to its narrower, pre-pandemic structure in early 2022. Advocates for the legislation hope the new bill, which is part of a $78 billion tax proposal that recently received bipartisan House support, will restore economic relief to families struggling financially. The new study is among the first to evaluate how the impact of the advance CTC payments varied among families based on the health and employment challenges they experienced as a result of the pandemic. The researchers hope these data can inform and strengthen the new legislation as it gains momentum. It is a scaled-back version of the prior bill, restoring eligibility for some low-income households, but excluding the lowest-income families and omitting the crucial monthly advance payments. Without including the key benefits of monthly payments and eligibility for the lowest-income households, the current proposal falls short of the 2021 expansion. Fully reinstating the 2021 benefits could create greater long-term resilience to hardship in future crises, like disease outbreaks, climate disasters, and recessions." Nicole McCann, study lead and corresponding author, PhD candidate studying health services and policy research at BUSPH However, she says, "the current proposal is "still an important step in the right direction," as the Center on Budget and and Policy Priorities estimates it would benefit 16 million children and lift 400,000 out of poverty this year, if passed." For the study, McCann and colleagues utilized nationally representative survey data to examine the association between the advance CTC monthly payments and food insufficiency among households with children-;more than 1.1 million Americans in total-;experiencing work absences due to health- or employment-related issues from January 2021 to July 2022. Food insufficiency (versus food insecurity) is defined by a single measurement to assess the amount and quality of food in households in the last seven days, while food insecurity is determined by a more comprehensive set of factors developed by the United States Department of Agriculture. Families who earned less than $35,000 per year were 150 percent more likely to experience these economic shocks than higher-income families during this time of the pandemic, while Black and Hispanic households were 68 and 55 percent more likely to experience them, respectively, than White households. Consequently, after Congress failed to renew the CTC, these shocks were linked to an 80 percent increase in food insufficiency. These results not only show that certain racial and ethnic groups were affected differently by the pandemic and the protective role of the advance CTC, but also why we see those differences, says study coauthor Dr. Stephanie Ettinger de Cuba, research associate professor of health law, policy & management at BUSPH. "Black and Hispanic families were most likely to have lost jobs or gotten sick during the pandemic and, therefore, experienced the income loss that drives food insufficiency and related poor health outcomes. The advance CTC provided a buffer from those effects allowing these families to have enough food during times of severe financial strain." Furthermore, the long-term benefits of a permanently restored CTC expansion would extend beyond food affordability and other day-to-day necessities, says study coauthor Dr. Paul Shafer, assistant professor of health law, policy & management at BUSPH. "There is emerging evidence that the CTC advance payments also had positive effects on parents' mental health, strengthening the case for revisiting this policy as a way to reduce economic precarity and help families thrive," he says. The study was also coauthored by researchers at BUSPH, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Boston Medical Center, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, researchers investigated the sex-specific all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk reductions derived from physical activity. They used a large (n = 412,313) cohort American cohort to identify this association and found that women derived greater benefits than their male counterparts from equivalent amounts of physical activity. Historically, however, women have generally lagged men in exercise engagement. These findings may help inform clinicians and the health-minded of the advantages of physical exercise in combatting chronic cardiovascular disease (CVD) and bridge observed "gender gaps" by encouraging women to take up leisure-time physical activity. Study: Sex Differences in Association of Physical Activity With All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality. The gender gap and what this means for sex-specific cardiac health Cardiovascular mortality remains one of the leading causes of global human loss of life, alarmingly a likely underestimation when considering that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a commonly reported comorbidity in numerous non-transmissible and transmissible pathologies. Decades of research have revealed that physical activity (PA) can substantially reduce all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, but records reveal that public involvement in leisure time PA is sorely lacking. In the United States of America (US) alone, fewer than 25% of citizens meet the minimum PA recommendations of 150 min/wk. of moderate PA or 75 min/wk. of vigorous PA prescribed by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Cardiology. Significant inter-sex differences in PA engagement further skew these already suboptimal observations a substantially larger proportion of men are known to engage in leisuretime PA than women, which, when combined with differences in physiological responses, exercise capacities, and activity tolerances between the sexes, might result in significantly different mortality outcomes between these cohorts. Unfortunately, the empirical outcomes of these "gender gaps" between men and women have never been tested within a scientific framework, denying clinicians, policymakers, and the health conscious of the information they need to optimize PA-related outcomes. Understanding the role of sex in these associations would allow for improved guidelines aimed at bridging the gender gap, fostering increased female PA engagement, and reducing overall mortality risk. About the study In the present study, researchers aimed to elucidate if PA-derived health benefits differ depending on the sex of the PA-engaging individual. Their cohort was derived from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a large-scale collaboratory effort carried out by the CDC and the National Center for Health Statistics. Established in 1957, the NHIS is a prospective cohort maintaining health records of Americans across 50 states and the District of Columbia, representing a proxy for America's health. The current study used participant data from 1997 to 2017 and was initially comprised of 646,279 individuals. Excluding participants with severe cardiovascular conditions (e.g., coronary heart disease), cancers, or missing demographic or medical data resulted in a final cohort of 412,413 adults. Data collection included demographic and medical information (from the NHIS database) and a consistent, standardized questionnaire for PA frequency, duration, and type assessment, presented at both baseline and follow-up evaluations. Cox proportional hazard regression models corrected from demographic and clinical covariates were used to assess primary outcomes. Likelihood ratio tests were used to compute sex-specific differences in outcome estimates. Study findings Demographic data collation revealed that 54.7% of included participants were women, more than 68% of whom were of White ethnicity. The average age of the study cohort was 43.9 years, and the study collected a total of 4,911,178 person-years of follow-up data. During the course of the study, 39,935 participants died from all causes, 11,670 of which were cardiovascular. Previously observed discrepancies in sex-specific PA engagement were validated in this study, with only 32.5% of women engaging in weekly aerobic PA compared to 43.1% of male participants. Every PA metric measured in the survey revealed greater male engagement than female, with 15.2% of men achieving the prescription weekly PA goal of 150 min/wk. In contrast, only 10.3% of women met this goal. However, hazard analyses present that the few women who do engage in physical activity derive far greater relative health benefits than their male counterparts. Compared to inactivity, female PA engagement results in a 24% risk reduction (all-cause mortality), while equivalent PA engagement in men only decreased their mortality risk by 15%. "In dose-dependent analyses for the entire cohort, the benefit of PA on all-cause mortality peaked at 300 min/wk of MVPA and then plateaued. The greatest mortality benefit in men was achieved at 300 min/wk of MVPA with an 18% lower hazard in all-cause mortality. Women derived a similar magnitude of benefit at 140 min/wk of MVPA, and continued to benefit with increasing min/wk of MVPA until the greatest benefit of 24% lower hazard (HR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.72-0.80) was achieved at 300 min/wk." While these findings do require validation in non-American cohorts, where observed results, especially those pertaining to engagement, might vary drastically from those observed herein, this study highlights the profound benefits of PA engagement for both sexes and may play a crucial role in motivating traditionally hesitant women to take up these activities given the health rewards they provide. A new paper in Nicotine & Tobacco Research, published by Oxford University Press, finds that banning the sale of menthol cigarettes would likely lead to a meaningful reduction in smoking rates. Menthol cigarettes are of particular public health concern because studies have found that the cooling effects of menthol mask the harshness of cigarettes, making it easier for young people to start smoking. Prior research has also found that menthol in cigarettes makes it easier for smokers to absorb nicotine, which results in greater dependence. Menthol smokers also find it harder to quit smoking compared to those who smoke non-menthol cigarettes. Prevalence rates of menthol cigarette use among cigarette smokers vary globally. Some 7.4% of smokers in Europe use menthol cigarettes. In the United States, however, some 43.4% of adult smokers used menthol cigarettes in 2020. Menthol cigarettes are disproportionately used by young people, racial/ethnic minorities, and lower-income smokers. About 81% of non-Hispanic Black smokers in the US use menthol cigarettes, as compared to 34% of White smokers. More than 170 US cites and two states, several countries (e.g., Canada, Ethiopia), and the European Union ban the sale of menthol cigarettes. Researchers here measured the effects of these policies. The investigators conducted a systematic search of studies published in English up to November 2022 (using PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase), to discover how menthol bans change smoking behavior. The researchers involved in this study looked at 78 prior studies, mostly from Canada, the European Union, and the United States. The study finds that the effect of menthol cigarette bans are substantial. The results show that while 50% of menthol smokers switched to smoking non-menthol cigarettes, almost a quarter (24%) of menthol cigarette smokers quit smoking altogether after a menthol ban. Some 12% switched to other flavored tobacco products, and 24% continued smoking menthol cigarettes. The study also finds that national menthol bans appear more effective than local or state menthol bans, as quit rates were higher in places with country-wide bans. This review provides compelling evidence for the US Food and Drug Administration's proposed ban on menthol cigarettes. In December 2023 the White House postponed banning menthol cigarettes. Our review of the evidence suggests this delay is causing harm to the health of the public, especially among Black communities. Contrary to industry claims, studies find no increase in the use of illicit products. A menthol cigarette ban would provide the greatest benefits to Black people who smoke. As a result of targeted marketing by the tobacco industry, today every 4 in 5 Black smokers use menthol cigarettes." Sarah Mills, paper's lead author BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijani Ambassador to Suriname (with residence in Brasilia city) Rashad Novruz was on a visit to Paramaribo, Suriname's capital, on February 19-21 to present his credentials to the President of the country, Trend reports. According to the Azerbaijani Embassy in Suriname, a ceremony of accepting the credentials of the ambassador was held on February 20 at the presidential palace. During the meeting, President of Suriname Chandrikapersad "Chan" Santokhi conveyed his interest in advancing bilateral relations and underscored the aspiration to elevate cooperation potentials across political, humanitarian, economic, oil and gas, and other domains. He aimed to enhance multilateral diplomatic engagements and agreements on mutual support, extending congratulations to President Ilham Aliyev on his confident victory in the extraordinary presidential election and the countrys readiness to host COP29 this year and requested the conveyance of his sincere greetings and best wishes to President Ilham Aliyev. The Azerbaijani ambassador conveyed greetings from President Ilham Aliyev to the leadership of Suriname. During the meeting, satisfaction was expressed over the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in bilateral and multilateral contexts, particularly within the UN, Non-Aligned Movement, and Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The significance of further advancing these relations in the future was underscored. As part of the visit, the ambassador also engaged in discussions with the Surinamese minister of foreign affairs and several other government officials. These meetings involved the exchange of perspectives on mutual interests and explored potential avenues for cooperation between the two countries. Currently, Suriname is undergoing an oil boom, attracting foreign investments from countries such as the US, China, and European nations. The country is actively developing its mining industry and agriculture. Suriname gained full independence from the Netherlands in 1975 and is a member of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), despite the fact that only 13 percent of its population is Muslim. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Treating knee joint defects with cartilage from the nose: The University Hospital in Wurzburg is working on the approval of this procedure. They received funding of 2.3 million euros for this purpose. Even though the recently launched EU project ENCANTO ("magic" in Spanish) has nothing to do with the Disney movie of the same name, the study topic might sound like magic to the layman. "We take a small piece of cartilage from the nasal septum of our patients, culture it on a structurally supportive collagen matrix, and implant it four weeks later into the damaged knee to regenerate the cartilage," Dr. Oliver Pullig explains. The safety and efficacy of this method for cartilage regeneration has already been demonstrated by the biologist in a former nasal cartilage study with an international team under the direction of the University Hospital Basel on more than 100 individuals. In this study, focal cartilage lesions, i.e., locally limited, and clearly defined injuries, which occur for example, after an accident, were treated with the laboratory grown cartilage tissue from the nose. Patients with more advanced cartilage defects will now be included in the ENCANTO study for the first time. It will be investigated whether the procedure represents an alternative to prosthesis and thus a new therapy for patellofemoral osteoarthritis (PFOA), i.e., cartilage damage on the back of the kneecap and the opposing thigh bone. Hence the acronym ENCANTO: ENgineered CArtilage from Nose for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis - artificially produced cartilage from the nose for the treatment of degenerative joint wear. A funding of 2.3 million euros for the University Hospital For the implementation of the ENCANTO project, a total of 11.3 million euros is made available as part of the EU funded program HORIZON-HLTH-2023-TOOL-05 (Tools and technologies for a healthy society). For this endeavor the University Hospital Wurzburg receives 1.88 million euros. Spearheading the production of the implants is the dedicated team of the "GMP-compliant ATMP development" led by Oliver Pullig, in collaboration with counterparts from University Hospital Basel. The innovative cartilage matrix will be used across 12 clinical centers in Europe, including the Orthopedic Department of the University Hospital Wurzburg. Another project for the treatment of PFOA is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation with 2.6 million Swiss francs, of which the University Hospital receives 415,000 euros for production according to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). "With these substantial funding amounts, which finally allow us to prepare the product for approval, we have reached the Champions League," says Oliver Pullig, eagerly anticipating the start of recruitment towards the end of 2024 for the Swiss-funded study and at the onset of 2025 for ENCANTO. In Wurzburg, the plan includes a total production of 56 implants and the recruitment of 25 patients. High requirements for production and quality Although the implantation itself is relatively simple, the effort required to culture the cartilage outside the human body is immense. Because the implant consists of living cells, it is categorized as Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP), which means it's subject to special regulations. We have already tackled the complex tasks and formalities related to production and logistics in the BIO-CHIP project." Oliver Pullig Now the challenge lies in consistently maintaining the high standards for production and product quality. "These are human cells. They don't always behave as we desire or expect," Dr. Sarah Nietzer explains. With a decade of work experience in research and development at the department, Nietzer has now transitioned to production and regulation. "We need more data to understand why, for example, the cells from one person don't grow as well as those from another. Additionally, we are working on a method to monitor the quality and viability of the cells throughout the entire production process, in real-time, and not just at the end. It would be fantastic if we could also apply this new method to other models used to simulate various diseases in the department. The production process of the cartilage implant But how is such a tissue implant actually created? Initially, a tiny piece of cartilage tissue is taken from the nasal septum of the study participants. Nasal cartilage cells are very similar to those of the knee; they exhibit mechanical resilience and can be efficiently multiplied in the laboratory. Following the removal a small piece of nasal septum, the cartilage tissue is processed under the strictest aseptic conditions in the cleanroom. The cells are isolated and cultured, and eventually placed onto a 4 x 5 centimeter carrier structure. Here, they migrate into the collagen membrane approved as a medical device, and grow their own cartilage matrix. After four weeks, the implant named N-TEC (nasal chondrocyte-based tissue-engineered cartilage) is ready for use. A real opportunity for treating the common disease osteoarthritis "In the nasal study, we also investigated a less time-consuming procedure, where the cells were cultured on the matrix for two days only. The quality was satisfactory, but the more matured matrix was more stable. It was also preferred by the surgeon, who in the end, places the new tissue made from autologous cells onto the defective area in the cartilage and sutures it with the intact cartilage tissue," reports Oliver Pullig. Notably, no autologous blood is needed for cell cultivation anymore, and two matrices can be produced instead of one. This advancement also allows for the treatment of large areas of cartilage defects. According to Pullig, if the implants prove to be a viable alternative to prosthetics, they would revolutionize the treatment of cartilage degeneration. Thus far, therapeutic approaches have been limited to pain management or artificial joint replacement. Globally, over 500 million individuals suffer from the painful and debilitating effects of arthritis in the knee joint. As obesity rates continue to climb and life expectancy on the rise, so too does the prevalence of this common disease. A new longitudinal study from the University of Toronto highlights the substantial mental health toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults with a history of stroke. Researchers examined a sample of over 500 older adults with a history of stroke from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a large dataset of older Canadians. Their findings indicated high levels of depression in this population during the COVID-19 pandemic. People who have experienced a stroke are already highly vulnerable to adverse mental health outcomes, such as depression. Unfortunately, the pandemic caused so many disruptions to care for stroke patients, which has major implications for the physical and mental well-being of this population." Andie MacNeil, lead author, research assistant at the University of Toronto's Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work (FIFSW) Using longitudinal data, the researchers were able to separate respondents with a history of depression from those who had never experienced depression prior to the pandemic. They found that 1 in 7 older adults with stroke history experienced depression for the first time during the pandemic. When the analysis was restricted to those with a history of depression, the prevalence was much higher, with 1 in 2 of these individuals experiencing a recurrence or persistence of depression during the pandemic. "Our findings highlight that many stroke survivors were struggling during the lockdown period, even among those who were mentally healthy up until the pandemic," said co-author Grace Li, PhD candidate in the Sociology Department at the University of Victoria. "These findings emphasize the importance of screening for depressive symptoms in older adults with stroke history, even among those with no lifetime history of depression." The researchers also examined risk factors for both first onset and recurrent depression. Among respondents with a history of depression, functional impairment was associated with approximately double the risk of depression during the pandemic. "Older adults who have a lifetime history of both stroke and depression are unsurprisingly a population that was at particularly high-risk for experiencing depression during the pandemic. Functional status may play an important role in this relationship," said co-author Aneisha Taunque, research assistant at the Institute for Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto. "A large body of research has demonstrated that post-stroke impairment greatly increases the risk of depression. Unfortunately, the pandemic caused many disruptions to rehabilitation services, potentially contributing to worsening functional status among this population." Respondents who had difficulty accessing their usual healthcare services had more than triple the risk of experiencing incident depression. "In addition to disruptions to rehabilitation services, the pandemic caused other stressors for stroke patients, such as delayed follow-up appointments and intravenous thrombolysis," reported co-author Ishnaa Gulati, a Master of Public Health Student at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health. "Experiencing challenges with healthcare access can be extremely stressful, particularly for individuals with complex health needs. Our findings underscore the impact that healthcare continuity can have on mental health." Older adults with a history of stroke who frequently felt lonely at the beginning of the pandemic were more likely to experience new onset depression than their peers who did not feel lonely often. "There is a robust literature showing loneliness is a major risk factors for depression. Due to the elevated risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes, it is possible that those with stroke may have been more vigilant in adhering to physical distancing recommendations and limiting social interaction, potentially increasing feelings of loneliness and social isolation," said senior author Esme Fuller-Thomson, a professor at FIFSW and director of the Institute for Life Course & Aging. Among respondents with no history of depression, immigrant status was also found to approximately triple the risk of incident depression. "Early in the pandemic, Canadian communities with a large proportion of immigrants were observed to have a disproportionately high risk of COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality, likely increasing psychological stress among individuals in these communities," stated Ying Jiang, Senior Epidemiologist at the Public Health Agency of Canada. Family stressors, such as separation from family and caregiving challenges, were found to increase the risk of both incident and recurrent depression. "People who have experienced a stroke may rely on support from loved ones to aid their recovery. For many families, the pandemic created significant caregiving challenges or situations where loved ones were separated due to illness or concern of contracting COVID," said Margaret de Groh, Scientific Manager at the Public Health Agency of Canada. "We found that this greatly increased the risk of depression for this population." The researchers also conducted a sensitivity analysis to examine the prevalence of incident and recurrent depression among people with a history of stroke between two earlier intervals before the pandemic. They found that the prevalence of depression was significantly lower in the pre-pandemic period, emphasizing the unique impact of COVID-19 on the mental health status of this population. "Our research helps inform clinicians on some of the important risk factors for depression among those with a history of stroke," said Fuller-Thomson. "We hope these results can help inform targeted screening and intervention, and in turn support the mental health of this population." Student enrollment in districts that provided in-person schooling in fall 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic showed a greater decline among nonwhite students than white students. But in districts that offered virtual learning, the opposite was true, according to a University of Michigan study. The results, published in the journal PNAS, are consistent with the fact that communities of color faced greater risks from COVID-19 and reported less trust in medical and social institutions. The most likely explanation for our findings is that Blackand to a lesser extent Hispanicfamilies were more concerned about the health risks associated with in-person schooling than white families. This is consistent with the fact that nonwhite communities experienced higher mortality rates during COVID and reported less trust in social institutions even prior to the pandemic. Brian Jacob, the Walter H. Annenberg Professor of Education Policy at U-M The study analyzed enrollment trends in U.S. public schools during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years, focusing on public school responses to COVID-19 policies and their impact on differing race/ethnicity groups. Jacob and colleague Micah Baum, U-M doctoral student in public policy and economics, found that enrollment decline was greater in districts adopting more strict COVID-19 policies like virtual-only instruction and mask requirements. Also, enrollment responses to COVID-19 policies differed significantly across different ages. Kindergarten and elementary children, for example, showed a larger decline in enrollment and higher sensitivity toward the mode of learning adopted. The comprehensive study used data from more than 9,000 school districts, serving over 90% of U.S. public school students, to examine the impact of COVID-19 policies on enrollments, with a specific focus on variations by student age and race/ethnicity. The findings illustrate the complex interplay between race, income and school policy, Jacob said. Public school districts faced tremendous challenges navigating COVID-19, balancing health vs. educational concerns and accounting for changing conditions on the ground. But how families within the same district responded to pandemic schooling policy differed dramatically by race. Still, according to the study, the racial differences in enrollments by learning modes persisted into 2021-22, although most public schools had resumed in-person learning. The findings suggest various interpretations, the researchers say. One is that health concerns and perceived risks from COVID-19 might have significantly influenced enrollment decisions, particularly among nonwhite families. For the researchers, the different enrollment responses across groups relate to preferences and resources. It is hard for us to disentangle these factors in our study completely, Jacob said. We find not only that enrollment declines in in-person districts were larger for nonwhite families, but these families were also more sensitive to local COVID deaths. At the same time, these preferences differences may be due, in part, to differential resources that allow white families to better adapt to in-person schooling. Considering that recent studies documented substantial learning loss among students who attended school virtually during 2020, Jacobs biggest concern is that these variations in enrollment responses might potentially exacerbate preexisting racial disparities. There is a good deal of evidence that virtual schooling was detrimental to student learning during COVID, he said. And to the extent that nonwhite families were disproportionately likely to avoid in-person schooling, this will have exacerbated racial disparities in learning loss. Wise, the foreign exchange financial technology company, recently revealed crucial insights into ATM withdrawal fees for Indian travellers visiting popular APAC destinations. The latest research tapped on its database to shed light on the potential costs associated with cash withdrawals abroad, helping travellers to get the most out of their vacation budgets. The data, focusing on destinations in APAC, revealed that Turkiye topped the list as the most expensive place in the region to withdraw cash at ATMs, with travellers charged 4.44% per transaction on average. As the new year commences and with an increasing number of Indians looking ahead to international travel, these insights provide valuable guidance for smarter financial planning throughout 2024. Among popular travel destinations for Indians, Thailand ranked 5th at 2.62%, followed by South Korea (2.55%), and Vietnam (1.85%). In contrast, mainland China and Malaysia have some of the lowest fees at 0.01% and 0.03% respectively. ATM fees in major APAC travel destinations: To put this into perspective, if someone withdrew Rs 10,000 per day for a week in Turkiye, theyd pay an equivalent of Rs 3,108 in fees. In contrast, if they visited Malaysia and took out the same amount of cash, they would only pay Rs 21 in transaction fees. When transacting in a different currency, its important to be aware of potential hidden expenses, which can often include foreign transaction fees and undisclosed exchange rate markups. These seemingly small charges can add up to a substantial amount. Surendra Chaplot, head of global product, Wise, said, When it comes to international payments, its crucial to be aware of potential hidden expenses, which can often include foreign transaction fees and undisclosed exchange rate markups. This affects anyone who has ever needed to move or manage money in a different currency, including withdrawing cash abroad. Wise is dedicated to raising consumers awareness about hidden fees in all forms of cross-border payments, so that they can make the most out of their money. To help Indian travellers make informed financial decisions and stretch their holiday budget during international trips, Wise has also put together these tips for holidaymakers to keep in mind: Research where to withdraw money. It may be cheapest to do this before leaving, but avoid money exchangers at the airport. If you really need to withdraw cash abroad, consider comparing ATM rates at multiple locations, as fees can vary from bank to bank. Check the fees your card provider charges for overseas withdrawals, which can be expensive. Some providers offer free ATM withdrawals abroad up to a certain threshold. When swiping your card in stores, choose to pay in the local currency instead of in Rupees to avoid dynamic currency conversion charges If youre travelling to visit friends and family, consider using credible platforms/apps to send money to those who can help to withdraw at a local ATM. This way, you avoid expensive ATM fees, foreign transaction fees and poor exchange rates all at once. Methodology of the study Wise said that the data is based on 8.4 million analysed cash withdrawals made with a Wise Card at 3rd party ATMs over 6 months, from May 2023 to November 2023. These ATMs recorded at least 500 transactions per country during the 6 months. Chartered accountants from the UK and Canada might be allowed to practice in India on a reciprocal basis, with the apex body ICAI proposing the government. ICAI President Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal on Wednesday said the proposal will be implemented strictly on the reciprocal basis that chartered accountants from India will also be allowed to practice in the United Kingdom and Canada. There is a huge demand for chartered accountants from India, news agency PTI quoted Agarwal as saying. It will be the first time that an overseas chartered accountant will be allowed to practice in India. The proposal is part of Indias ongoing negotiations for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the UK and Canada. Agarwal also said that a similar arrangement is being looked at with Australia. Once the reciprocal system is implemented, the chartered accountants from the foreign countries will have to be registered with the ICAI, which will be regulating them. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has more than 4 lakh members and 8.5 lakh students. Currently, around 42,000 chartered accountants from India are working overseas. (With PTI inputs) An article co-authored by RBI Deputy Governor Michael Debabrata Patra on Tuesday rejected the IMFs contention about the countrys general government debt, emphasising that the debt-GDP ratio could be significantly lower than projected. Empirical findings show that medium-term complementarities between judicious fiscal consolidation and growth outweigh the short-run costs, said the article titled The Shape of Growth Compatible Fiscal Consolidation. It also said that spending on social and physical infrastructure, climate mitigation, digitalisation and skilling the labour force can yield long-lasting growth dividends. Our simulations reveal that the general government debt-GDP ratio swerves below the projected path set out by the IMF in its latest Article IV consultation report for India, the article, published in the Reserve Bank of Indias February Bulletin, said. With recalibration of government expenditure, the general government debt-GDP ratio is projected to decline to 73.4 per cent by 2030-31, around 5 percentage points lower than the IMFs projected trajectory of 78.2 per cent, the team led by Patra said in the article. This, it said is noteworthy as the debt-GDP ratio is projected to rise from 112.1 per cent in 2023 to 116.3 per cent in 2028 for advanced economies and from 68.3 per cent to 78.1 per cent for emerging and middle-income countries. It is in this context that we reject the IMFs contention that if historical shocks materialise, Indias general government debt would exceed 100 per cent of GDP in the medium-term and hence further fiscal tightening is needed, the article said. Further, it said their baseline projection suggests that the debt-GDP ratio will chart a secular decline, reaching 77.4 per cent in 2030-31. RBI said the views expressed in the article are of the authors and do not represent its views. The Interim Budget for 2024-25 has projected the gross fiscal deficit of the Union government at 5.1 per cent of GDP in 2024-25, in line with the target of 4.5 per cent of GDP by 2025-26. The impetus provided to capital expenditure in the post-pandemic period has been sustained by increasing its share to 3.4 per cent of GDP, the article said. A 16-year-old boy hanged himself in his house in Shankar Vihar area of southwest Delhi, police said. The class 10 student hanged himself from ceiling with a chunni allegedly over being refused the admit card for an exam. Police, however, said they are verifying the claim. Sources from his school refuted the allegation. Victim was a student of class X at Army Public School, Shankar Vihar. He committed suicide by hanging himself with chunni. No suicide note was found, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (southwest) Rohit Meena. The officer said the boys father is a head constable in the Army and mother is a housewife. We have handed over the body to his parents after the autopsy. We are verifying the facts regarding the admit card. No complaint has been submitted by the parents, the DCP said. Police said that they are verifying the claim that he was denied an admit card for exams. If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) The Maharashtra legislature on Tuesday unanimously passed a bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the Maratha community in education and government jobs. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde tabled the Maharashtra State Socially and Educationally Backward Bill 2024 in the legislative assembly during the day-long special session of the legislature on Maratha quota. The bill, which was passed unanimously by the House, stated that the Marathas comprise 28 per cent of the total population of Maharashtra. A substantial number of castes and groups are already placed in the reserved category, getting about 52 per cent of reservations altogether. It would be completely inequitable to place the Maratha community in the Other Backward Class (OBC) category, it said. The backwardness of the Maratha class is distinct and different from backward classes and, more particularly, OBC in the sense that it is more pervasive in terms of its coverage, it differs in its penetration and further regressive in character, the bill said. The Maratha quota bill also proposed that once the reservation comes into effect, its review could be taken after 10 years. Out of the 52 per cent reservation currently existing in the state, the Scheduled Castes are eligible for 13 per cent, Scheduled Tribes 7 per cent, OBCs 19 per cent, Special Backward Classes 2 per cent, Vimukta Jati 3 per cent, Nomadic Tribe (B) 2.5 per cent, Nomadic Tribe (C) Dhangar 3.5 per cent and Nomadic Tribe (D) Vanjari 2 per cent. After tabling the bill in the House, CM Shinde said as many as 22 states in the country have crossed the 50 per cent reservation mark. For instance, Tamil Nadu state has 69 per cent, Haryana 67 per cent, Rajasthan 64 per cent, Bihar 69 per cent, Gujarat 59 per cent and West Bengal 55 per cent. I can mention other states as well. The purpose of the session is to help the (Maratha) community, he said. We want to give reservation to the Maratha community without touching the existing quota of the OBCs in the state. The Marathas have been struggling for the last 40 years to get reservation benefits, the CM said. The bill was later also passed unanimously in the state legislative council. It will now be sent to Governor Ramesh Bais for his assent. Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange, who is sitting on a hunger strike since February 10, had demanded that a special session of the legislature be called over the issue. The government recently issued a draft notification which said if a Maratha person has documentary proof to show that he or she belongs to the agrarian Kunbi community, the persons sage soyre or blood relatives too would get Kunbi caste certificates. The Kunbi community falls in the OBC category, and Jarange has been demanding that Kunbi certificates be issued to all Marathas. Maharashtra cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal has been opposing the backdoor entry of Marathas into the OBC quota, but is in favour of a separate reservation for the community. Notably, the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission on Friday submitted a report on its survey on the social, economic, and educational backwardness of the Maratha community. One of the key findings in the bill tabled by CM Shinde underscores that the population of the Maratha community in the state is 28 per cent. Out of the total Maratha families that are below poverty line, 21.22 per cent hold the yellow ration cards. It is higher than the states average of 17.4 per cent. The state governments survey undertaken between January and February this year also found that 84 per cent of the Maratha community families do not fall under the progressed category, hence they are eligible for reservation as per the Indra Sawhney case, as per the bill. Out of total farmers suicides in Maharashtra, 94 per cent are from Maratha families, the bill noted. The bill highlighted that in 1902, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj gave reservation benefits to the Maratha community in the erstwhile Kolhapur princely state while the then Mumbai state also recognised the Maratha community as one of the backward classes in it report. A resolution of the Mumbai state on April 23, 1942 mentioned the Maratha community as one of the medium and backward classes. In 2017, the state government asked the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission headed by retired Justice M G Gaikwad to undertake data collection and later enacted a law to provide reservation to Marathas. Although it was challenged in the Bombay High Court, the law sailed through it, but the Supreme Court struck it down. A fresh commission under Justice (retd) Sunil Shukre was recently set up, which undertook the survey of 1,58,20,264 families in the state and collected data with the help of 1,96,259 enumerators. The report found that educational indicators illustrate the Maratha communitys lower education in terms of completing secondary education and achieving graduate and post-graduate degrees and professional courses. It is mentioned as the highest barrier to education. Insufficient education often invites poverty, as per the bill. The summary tables of employment, such as in schools and government and semi-government departments, also revealed that the Maratha class is inadequately represented in all sectors and, therefore, deserves special protection via reservation in these services, it said. The Maratha communitys economic fortune is marked by dwindling returns from agriculture, fragmentation of land holdings, loss of traditional dignity associated with agriculture, and lack of attention to the educational training of youth, among others, it added. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has now released a list of new exam cities for the National Eligibility Entrance Test, Undergraduate Examination (NEET-UG) 2024. A notice has been shared on their official website where they have informed the addition of 14 foreign centres. Given that many of the candidates must have already filled their forms by now, the NTA has informed us that the registered individuals will be able to change their centres during the application correction facility. Informing about the option to change your centre, this is what the NTA had to say in their official notice: Candidates who have already selected centres in India and paid the fee without the option for foreign centres will have the opportunity to correct their centre and country choice during the correction window. This window will open after the registration window closes. Candidates in foreign countries wishing to centres to foreign cities can make corrections during this period. However, they will be required to pay the differential amount. NEET UG 2024: What are the 14 cities added by the NTA? The list of cities includes Kuwait Kuwait City United Arab Emirates Dubai United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi Thailand Bangkok Sri Lanka Colombo Qatar Doha Nepal Kathmandu Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Nigeria Lagos Bahrain Manama Oman Muscat Saudi Arabia Riyadh United Arab Emirates Sharjah Singapore Singapore How to apply for NEET UG 2024? Candidates who are looking to apply for NEET 2024 must follow the step-by-step guidelines mentioned below: Step 1 The primary step requires the candidate to go to the official NTA website at exams.nta.ac.in. Step 2 Now you will have to browse through the homepage and then click on the NEET UG tab that has been provided. Step 3 After clicking on the tab you will have to select the registration link on the homepage. Step 4 Now enter the details and fill in the form carefully. Step 5 Before clicking on submit make sure you go through the entire form to check if all the entered details are accurate. Step 6 Next, submit the form and download the page on your computer as a PDF file. Step 7 Taking out a printout of the document is also advised as it helps with future reference. The registration for the NEET-UG 2024 is set to continue until March 9. Admission to programmes including MBBS and BDS, will be conducted via a medical entrance exam on May 5, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday virtually inaugurated the IIT Bombay research park building and also laid the foundation stone of academic and residential buildings of the premier institute. The IIT Bombay Research Park was constructed for Rs 225 crore, utilising Rs 100 crore from a grant by the Ministry of Education, Rs 67 crore from HEFA (Higher Education Financing Agency) loan, and Rs 58 crore from IITB internal revenue generation, a statement said. ALSO READ | PM Modi Inaugurates Campuses of IIT Bhilai, IIT Tirupati, 3 New IIMs The Research Park is a G+14 floor building with 5 lakh square feet of built-up space. The prime minister also laid the foundation stone of efficiency apartments, hostel 04, academic sciences blocks for chemistry and chemical engineering, bio-school and central animal facility, and academic blocks 1 and 2, as per the statement issued by the IIT Bombay. The total cost of the projects for which the foundation stone was laid is more than Rs 1,120 crore. IIT Bombay is extending the IITB Research Partnership program by investing in a dedicated facility, the IITB Research Park, where our industry partners can co-locate their researchers and staff in the IIT Bombay campus, IIT Director Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri said on the occasion. The Research Park will be a hub for innovation and collaboration between academia and industry, he said. It (the Research Park) will be organised into clusters, in core and emerging areas such as bioengineering and healthcare, sustainability and clean energy, semiconductors and quantum tech, materials and smart manufacturing, eMobility, AI Robotics and automation, geospatial technology, he added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21.Compliant with the training plan for 2024, a training session with a group of reservists proceeded in one of the military units, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry. Combat training sessions were held with reservists, who were taught the tactical and technical characteristics of small arms and equipment, as well as how to bring mortars up to combat readiness. Furthermore, the appropriate functioning of military equipment and the laws for conveying military supplies were discussed, and safe driving of military vehicles in all weather situations on diverse terrains was worked out. Reservists completed the assignments provided throughout the session with success. It should be mentioned that the training boosts a group of reservists' combat readiness, knowledge, and talents, as well as their practical skills. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The Telangana government has announced the closure of schools and colleges in Mulugu district in light of the Medaram Jathara, a renowned trade fair in South India. District Collector Tripathi has issued an order declaring a four-day holiday, from February 21 to February 24, 2024, for both government and private educational institutions in Mulugu district. The closure aligns with the dates of the Medaram Jathara event. Following this closure, regular classes will resume from February 26, 2024. Often referred to as the Telangana Kumbh Mela, the Medaram Sammakka Saralamma Jatara is celebrated as the largest tribal fair in Asia. The Medaram Jathara festival occurs biennially in Medaram Village of Tadvai Mandal, nestled deep in the heart of the thick forests of Mulugu district. Designated as a State Festival in 1998, this years Jathara is scheduled to take place from February 21 to February 24, 2024. To assist devotees heading to Medaram for the biannual festivities, the Union Minister for Tourism and Culture has scheduled extra trains on February 21 and 24. In addition, the tourism department has started offering pilgrims attending the Medaram Maha Jatara festival helicopter services. These helicopter services, which are run by Bengaluru-based Thumbi Aviation, began operation on February 17, reported Times Now. The Telangana government proclaimed February 8 a holiday earlier this month in honour of the Muslims Shab-e-Meraj festival. On this day, the state ordered all schools to stay closed. Shab-e-Meraj on February 8 has been designated as a holiday in the government-released school holiday calendar. Muslims regard Shab-e-Meraj to be an auspicious day. Mosques are lit up with lamps on that particular day. The Election Commission of India has started back-to-back visits to states to gauge the situation ahead of the Lok Sabha elections to be held in a few weeks. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar on Wednesday said that the team will visit Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir to assess the preparedness before announcing the dates for the polls. The poll body team, headed by Kumar, has already visited Andhra Pradesh in January and made consecutive visits to Odisha and Bihar since Friday. It ended the Bihar trip on Wednesday and will begin the Tamil Nadu tour on Thursday. We are starting our Tamil Nadu tour from tomorrow. Back-to-back tours have been planned. We will also go to Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation, and only after that polls will be announced, Kumar said while speaking to the media in Patna. The terms of the Lok Sabha and the assemblies in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim will end in June. These four states will witness simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections. In 2019, the parliamentary polls were announced on March 10. The counting of votes took place on May 23. Bihar has 40 Lok Sabha seats with more than 7.64 crore voters. Over 9.20 lakh first-time voters will exercise their franchise on the day of polling. There will be around 77,400 polling stations in Bihar with on average 987 voters at each. Kumar also said that the poll body tries to hold elections in a minimum number of phases. He said the number is decided keeping several factors across the nation in mind. Weather, exams, holidays, movement of the forces are kept in mind while deciding the number of phases but we try to keep it minimum, he added. In 2019, the Lok Sabha polls were held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. While referring to the Chandigarh mayor election row, Kumar also said that no such practice can be allowed. He said any polling party, agent, or anybody be it the district magistrate or superintendent of police involved in the election process will not dare to do something like what happened in Chandigarh. Kumar also said that the system does not allow anyone to do such things. Candidates are involved in every step. There is no step where there is no transparency, he said. We are answerable and we make it clear that all polling personnel have to follow procedures. Any violation in the process will face ruthless action from the commission. In the Chandigarh mayoral election held last month, returning officer Anil Masih was caught on camera invalidating and discarding votes cast in favour of the Aam Aadmi Party candidate Kuldeep Kumar. The issue reached the Supreme Court, which declared the AAP candidate the winner on Tuesday. Maternity leave is a right given to working women, which can be taken by any woman in special circumstances. Special circumstances mean that this leave can be taken in the state of pregnancy. In such a situation, the question arises whether unmarried women can also take advantage of maternity leave in the event of pregnancy. What has been arranged in the law regarding this? Important changes have been made in the Maternity Benefit Bill 2017 under labour laws. According to this, pregnant women will now be given 26 weeks or 6 months of leave, instead of 12 weeks or 3 months. The purpose is to give adequate opportunities for proper protection and care of the mother and child after delivery. The biggest thing is that during this time the woman is given her full salary by the company. There can be no reduction in it. What is the law for unmarried women? Maternity leave as defined under the Government of Indias labour laws has rules uniformly for married or unmarried women. It does not matter whether the woman is married or unmarried because this law is made only for pregnancy or child care. Therefore, unmarried women will also get maternity leave of 26 weeks. During this time there will be no cut in salary. Government or private, law is uniform The best thing about maternity leave is that whether your company is public or private, the conditions and facilities of the leave will not be affected. However, this rule will apply to companies with 10 or more employees. If the number of employees is less, then it is not kept under the definition of a company and the rules of labour law will not apply to it. Different rules when more than 2 children Keep in mind that maternity law works differently for more than 2 children. Under this, full leave of 26 weeks is given up to 2 children, but after this, only 12 weeks or 3 months of maternity leave will be given on the delivery of the third child. Other conditions The employee is required to work 80 days out of the 12 months before the delivery. Only then will maternity leave be available. Women adopting children will also get the right to take maternity leave. If a woman gives birth to a child under surrogacy, she can also get maternity leave up to 26 weeks from the date of handing over the newborn to its parents. Indonesia is poised to see a former army general and son-in-law of a dictator to take the reins of the country after unofficial count has given him strong leads. Activists fear that Prabowo Subianto, 72, who was a former special commander under the Suharto dictatorship, will give little regards to human rights and bring the country back to the dark history of torture and disappearances. The official results may take a month to be released, but exit polls show Subianto winning close to 60% of the vote, which would be a landslide victory. The runner-up, Anies Baswedan, appears to have secured around 24-25% of the vote while Ganjar Prannowo is sitting on just 17%, according to The Conversation. Who is Prabowo Subianto? Prabowo was born in 1951 in Jakarta, and is son of famous Indonesian economist Sumitro Djojohadikusumo. He joined the Indonesian Military Academy in 1970 and then became part of the Kopassus unit. He married Sohertos daughter, Siti Hediati, in 1983, but the couple divorced 15 years later. Prabowo led Kopassus special forces during the anti-China riots across Indonesia in May 1998, but was discharged from the military after the soldiers kidnapped and tortured political activists. In the Kopassus forces crackdown on a protest at Jakartas Trisakti University that year, four students were killed and dozens were wounded. Prabowo was never charged in the Trisakti incident or the 22 abductions that took place that year. He never faced trial even after his own men levelled allegations against him. The US has imposed a travel ban on him, which was only lifted in 2020 after which he was appointed as the defence minister of Indonesia in President Joko Jokowi Widodos cabinet. Besides this, Prabowo has been involved in military crimes in East Timor, which Indonesia captured in 1975, as well as in the eastern province of West Papua. How Did Prabowo Secured a Win? He co-founded the nationalist, right-wing Gerinda Party in 2008. He also ran for the presidency in 2014 and 2019 but lost of Joko Widodo. The online campaigns run by Prabowos team has portrayed his image as cute grandpa to attract the young voters, who was oblivious of his dark history. The young voters of Indonesia account for 50% of the total electorate. His social media rebranding campaign featuring his felines, angelic AI avatar and TikTok dances have swayed many youngsters to his cuddly (gemoy) persona. Prabowo has also gained from his association with Jokowi who is a popular figure in the country. Prabowo has promised to continue Jokowis legacy, and keep up his pet projects on nickel mining and construction of Nusantara as the new capital of Indonesia. While Jokowi did not officially endorse any candidate, he was spotted with Prabowo at dinner, and lent his face on the posters alongside Prabowo and Gibran. What to Expect from the Next President? According to the Indonesian system, Prabowo will not take the oath until October. In the meantime, Jokowi will remain in office. The time will be used by the political and business elite for political negotiations, horse-trading and pay-offs in order to set up the new regime. Prabowos rivals will be removed while top posts in the government can be reserved for the oligarchs who supported Prabowos campaigns. Analysts say there are slim chances of Prabowos presidency downgrading Indonesia to full-fledged autocracy but there could be incidents, which would erode few elements of democracy. Prabowo has been very clear in his campaign that he thinks the democratic reforms that led to the fall of Soherto in 1998 should be reversed. This could mean dismantling of free checks and balances and individual freedom. What Does His Presidency Mean for India? Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Prabowo on his win, and said he is looking forward to strengthening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Indonesia. According to reports, the president-elect is keen on buying Indias BrahMo missiles and emulate social programmes such as the mid-day meal scheme in Indonesias schools. Both countries share concerns about Chinas growing influence in the region, and Indonesias vast coastline and Indias maritime prowess could be beneficial for both the countries. India is currently Indonesias 14th largest source of foreign investments valued at $275.4 million in 2023 last year according to the Indonesian government data. The two-way trade between Indonesia and India stood at $28.2 billion in 2023, against $32.7 billion in the previous year. India is one of 20 countries Indonesia is offering visa-free entry privileges to boost tourist arrivals. Does the Covid vaccine debate hold true? Looks like. The largest global Covid study, covering 90 million vaccinated people, has found that the shots from companies like Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca were linked to rare brain, heart and blood disorders. Researchers from the Global Vaccine Data Network a research arm of World Health Organization found that the Covid vaccinations exacerbated 13 different medical conditions that were considered adverse events of special interest. The study considered nearly 100 million vaccinated people from eight countries: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand and Scotland. What are the Key Findings? The study, recently published in the journal Vaccine, found a slight increase in neurological, blood, and heart-related issues following vaccination. Rare cases of myocarditisinflammation of the heartwere identified in the first, second and third doses of Pfizer-BioNTechs and Modernas mRNA vaccines: The highest rate was seen after the second Moderna dose (6.1 times the expected rate of cases), according to the study as quoted in Forbes. Pericarditis another heart condition had 6.9-fold increased risk in those who took a third dose of AstraZenecas vaccine, while a first and fourth dose of Moderna had 1.7-fold and 2.6-fold increased risk, respectively. There was a greater risk of developing a rare neurological disorder Guillain-Barre syndrome among those who took the AstraZeneca shots, and had 3.2 times risk of getting blood clots. There was a 3.8-times greater risk of developing the neurological disorder acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after taking the Moderna vaccine, and a 2.2-fold increased risk after AstraZenecas vaccine, according to the study. What are Experts Saying? Dr Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, stressed the overall safety and benefits of vaccination, as told to Fox News. Another expert, Jacob Glanville, CEO of biotechnology company Centivaix, said the odds of experiencing adverse events from the vaccine remain significantly lower than those from contracting Covid-19, during an interview with Forbes. How Indians were Affected? A new study by Christian Medical College, Vellore, showed that those who survived Covid-19 suffered significant lung and respiratory problems compared to Europeans and Chinese. The study pointed out while most recovered within a year of Covid-19 infection, others had permanent lung damage. The study was done during the first wave of the pandemic in India on 207 Indians. Subjects were made to underwent pulmonary function tests, six-minute walking test, chest radiography, and St. Georges respiratory questionnaire. In a large Indian cohort, we have reported the presence of post-Covid-19 residual lung damage, as assessed by lung function tests, exercise capacity, chest radiography and quality of life measurements. Our population reported relatively higher symptomatology and comorbidities and greater lung function impairment, compared to most published studies. We have shown that post-Covid-19 lung damage results in significant impairment of lung function, quality of life and effort tolerance, said the study. Delhi is witnessing light to heavy rains at night, with morning temperature dropping to 15-17 degree Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light showers in parts of Delhi today. But what is the reason behind this rain? The IMD has attributed the unseasonal rains to Western Disturbances. Delhi has experienced five rainy days in February so far. In the corresponding month, last year, the capital recorded no rain. IMD scientist Naresh Kumar told IMD, Rain was due to a Western Disturbance. In the coming two days, in northwest India, including the western Himalaya region, there is a possibility of rainfall, thunderstorm and hailstorm. The temperatures all over India is normal and no possibility of a heatwave as of now. Let us understand what exactly is Western Disturbances and how they cause rain? Western Disturbances or extra tropical storm are moisture-laden winds that originate from Mediterranean Sea or Caspian Sea and bring rain to the north-western parts of Indian sub-continent. It is a non-monsoonal precipitation pattern, which is driven by the westerlies. Northwest India experiences sudden showers, snowfall, and fog during this area of low pressure. A Western Disturbance is formed by a high-pressure exhibited over the areas like Ukraine and neighbourhood countries causing the intrusion of cold air from Polar regions towards an area of relatively warmer air with high moisture. This change in pressure from cold air to warm air generates favourable conditions for cyclogenesis in the upper layer of the atmosphere, which promotes the formation of an eastward-moving extratropical depression in the sea. Then these winds travel across the middle-east from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan to finally enter the Indian sub-continent. Impact of Western Disturbances With India being dependent on agriculture, the winter rain is useful for rabi crops such as wheat, which is grown in certain regions. In the winter season, around four to five western disturbances occur. While the rain lowers the temperature, it destroys crops during the winter season in north and central India, including Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh. The IMD had advised farmers to delay harvesting wheat and other rabi crops due to unwanted monsoonal rains. It also told farmers to harvest crops such as mustard and chickpeas and store them in secure locations. The excessive rain due to Western Disturbances can also cause landslides, floods and avalanches. In the Indo-Gangetic plains, it occasionally brings cold wave conditions and dense fog. Prediction for the Next Few Days The IMD had predicted light to moderate rain in Muzaffarnagar, Bijnaur, Amroha, Moradabad, Garhmukteshwar, Rampur, Siyana, Sambhal, Billari, Milak, Chandausi, Anupshahar, Bahajoi, Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh. Apart from the National Capital Region, heavy rains also lashed the Srinagar district in Jammu and Kashmir. Thunderstorms with light to moderate-intensity rain was witnessed in Haryana and Rajasthan. Hailstorm recorded at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana and north Rajasthan, the IMD stated. The IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall accompanied with thunderstorms and lightning in Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh till February 22; over northeast Rajasthan on February 21. A fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect Western Himalayan Region from February 24 night, which can cause light to moderate rain and snowfall over Western Himalayan Region from February 24-26. Heavy rainfall and snowfall has also been predicted for the northeast. Nine people were killed and several others sustained grave injuries after an autorickshaw crashed into another vehicle in Bihars Lakhisarai early on Wednesday morning. According to sources, the accident took place on the Lakhisarai-Sikandra main road. The auto carrying 18 passengers was heading towards Sikandra from Lakhisarai, police said. On being informed, police rushed to the spot and rescued the injured people and rushed them to the hospital. Doctors said at least seven people have sustained severe injuries and are undergoing treatment. #WATCH | Lakhisarai, Bihar: Nine out died in a collision between an auto and a truck on the main road near Biharora, Ramgarh Chowk at around 1:30 am last night. The injured five persons have been sent to the hospital for treatment: Lakhisarai Police pic.twitter.com/n9XOKsW6Md ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 According to an India Today report, the injured were first sent to the Sadar Hospital for treatment but were referred to the Patna Medical College Hospital due to their serious condition. Police are investigating the matter and trying to ascertain the identities of the deceased victims. Among the deceased are Veer Paswan, Vikas Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Dibana Paswan, Amit Kumar, Monu Kumar, Kisan Kumar, and Manoj Goswami, with most of them hailing from Munger. Talking to PTI, Lakshisarai SP Pankaj Kumar said, The accident took place around 3am on the Lakhisarai-Sikandra main road. While nine people died on the spot, several others sustained injuries. All injured were taken to the nearest government hospital. The victims were returning from a wedding ceremony when the accident took place, he said, adding that the driver of the truck fled the spot. The truck has been seized by police and investigation is on, the SP added. The BJP has refuted the allegations that its Bengal unit leader Suvendu Adhikari and other party workers used the Khalistani slur against a Sikh IPS officer during a confrontation between BJP workers and police near violence-hit Sandeshkhali. The saffron partys response came hours after BJPs leader of opposition in the West Bengal assembly Suvendu Adhikari dared the police to prove their allegations and police vowed strict action against the leader. South Bengal Additional Director General of Police (ADG) Supratim Sarkar alleged that the BJP leader made the Khalistani remark against the police officer. He said, We will take strict action. This is just unacceptable. Taking to microblogging site X (formerly Twitter) the BJP accused the officer, Jaspeet Singh, of violating the Calcutta High Court order that allowed Adhikari to visit Sandeshkhali. The state BJP alleged that Bengal Police was more interested in being a political player than policing. Mr Adhikari alleged that the ruling Trinamool Congress cooked up the issue to divert attention from Sandeshkhali. It is a shame that the WB Police is willing to be a political pawn in the hands of Mamata Banerjee and is dragging in religion. Here is a video and images to remind how disrespectful WB Police has been towards the Sikhs. You have pulled off turbans and dragged Sikh protestors on the streets, for taking on Mamata Banerjees decrepit administration. So dont lecture us, it mentioned. PUNJAB CM CONDEMNS ROW Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the incident. Taking to X, he said, It is highly condemnable for a BJP leader to call a Sikh IPS officer of Bengal a traitor. Perhaps BJP does not know that till date, Punjabis have made maximum sacrifice in liberating the country and maintaining its independence. BJP should apologise to Punjabis, he said. AAP leader and Delhi minister Gopal Rai said, The way BJP leaders humiliated an IPS officer on duty in West Bengal by calling him Khalistani is not acceptable. In the entire country, whoever believes in the unity of the country also believes that to strengthen this country no one should be humiliated on caste, religion, region or linguistic ground. The way the BJP leader publicly humiliated him (IPS officer) shows how hate is rooted in them. They (BJP leaders) are issuing certificates to everyone and have crossed all the boundaries of the constitution. AAP condemns this act in strong words and we ask the BJP to issue a public apology. WHAT IS THE KHALISTANI SLUR ROW A Sikh IPS officer, who was deputed to prevent senior West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting restive Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district, on Tuesday slammed saffron party activists for allegedly dubbing him as a Khalistani. This triggered a war of words between TMC and BJP leaders. The BJP, however, denied the charge and accused the police officer of not performing his duty as per the Constitution. Later, members of the Sikh community staged a demonstration outside the BJPs state headquarters at Muralidhar Lane in Kolkata in protest against the alleged Khalistani jibe. They also protested in Asansol. According to sources, the TMC will hold protests in the state over the issue on Thursday. Adhikar reached the Sandeskhali block in the afternoon, after being granted permission by a division bench of the Calcutta High Court to visit the trouble-torn area. Sandeshkhali has been witnessing protests after local women accused absconding Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh and his supporters of sexually assaulting them under coercion. Since coming to power in 2014, the Narendra Modi government has proposed a number of projects to decongest the national capital. In total, 16 projects worth more than Rs 60,000 crore have been planned, covering around 870 km. As the government completes nearly 10 years, here is a look at the status of these major projects. The ministry of road transport and highways has already completed eight projects worth Rs 24,600 crore covering around 370 km. These include the 135-km Eastern Peripheral Expressway, completed in 2018, as well as the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, completed in 2021. The completed project list also includes the 70-km Delhi-Panipat road and the eight-lane corridor between the Indira Gandhi International Airport and Dhaula Kuan. Paving the way for 500 kilometres At least eight more projects 500 km in length are also fast coming up in the national capital region that will ease the journey between nearby towns, MoRTH documents seen by News18 show. Five of these are expected before June and one by December. Two more projects will take a little longer. Parts of two of these projects the 30-kilometre Dwarka Expressway and 76-kilometre Urban Extension Road are expected to be inaugurated this month, as reported by News18 last week. Two more projects a 32-km six-lane road between the Akshardham Temple and Eastern Peripheral Expressway, and a 225-km road between Delhi and Jaipur are expected to be ready by June, the ministry documents show. By December, a 60-kilometre road between DND Interchange at Kalindi Kunj and Faridabad and Soha will be ready. A four-lane 39-km road between Gohana and Sonipat is expected to be complete by next month. By June 2025, a new road connecting the Delhi and Noida airports will also be ready. This 32-km road will also ease the journey for those taking the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway from east Delhi or western Uttar Pradesh. According to the latest available figures, of the Rs 60,000-crore projects, ventures worth Rs 27,000 crore have been completed while projects worth Rs 33,000 crore are underway. Around 90 per cent of the construction work has been completed on Dwarka Expressway, while 85 per cent is done on UER 2 and DND-Sohna Road. Another road, work on which is expected from next financial year, is also coming up in the town that will connect Vasant Kunj and Dwarka Expressway. This five-kilometre road will be built for Rs 3,000 crore. Why these roads are important Being the biggest city, Delhi sees a huge flow of traffic every day to and from nearby towns with people travelling long distances for jobs, education, and healthcare. People commute between Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Meerut for various reasons. With better roads and enhanced connectivity, not only travel hours are reduced but it also helps in reducing air pollution one of the biggest banes of the region. Over the years, vehicles and pollution levels in Delhi have grown exponentially. This has resulted in severe traffic congestion. The city, with the increase in vehicles, needed improved and seamless roads for better traffic movement. These access-control roads will help commuters and the authorities not just ease the flow of traffic but also cut fuel bills and pollution levels. A farmer from Punjab was killed and several others injured on Wednesday as protesters resumed their Delhi Chalo agitation, with Haryana Police firing tear gas shells and water cannons at them to thwart their attempts to breach barricades at Shambhu and Khanauri borders. Amid several incidents of violence, the farmers have decided to suspend the Delhi Chalo protest march for two days, however, the sit-in will continue during this time. We will have discussions over the incident that took place in Khanauri. There will be a two-day stay on our march towards Delhi. We will clarify the entire situation later as to what our further movement will be, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, head of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, told media. Farmers Protest 2.0 Latest Updates Farm leaders had rejected a proposal made by the government in the fourth round of talks between the two sides to break the deadlock and announced that thousands of Punjab farmers camping at these two border points would resume their agitation on Wednesday morning. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were also seen at the protest sites, with police cautioning that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse some farmers who started moving towards the multiple layers of barricades at Shambhu and Khanauri border points. There have been at least three rounds of tear gas shelling at Shambhu near Ambala in Haryana. A drone was also used by security personnel there to drop tear gas shells. Many protesting farmers were seen wearing masks and glasses to protect themselves from the gas. Drones were used by police to keep an eye on the activities of the farmers on the other side of the barricades. A protesting farmer died as Haryana Police dropped tear gas shells at Khanauri on the Sangrur-Jind border on Wednesday afternoon. Farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa identified the victim as Subhkaran Singh (21). Singh was a resident of Baloke village in Punjabs Bathinda district, he said. Patiala-based Rajindra Hospitals medical superintendent H S Rekhi told reporters that three people, one of them dead, were brought to the hospital from Khanauri. The deceased had an injury to his head and the other two are stable, Rekhi said. The farmers claimed that Haryana police personnel fired rubber bullets, besides tear gas shells. Haryana Police, meanwhile, said that no farmer died on Wednesday during the farmers protest. This is just a rumour. There is information about two policemen and one protestor being injured at Data Singh-Khanauri border who is undergoing treatment, it said in a post on X. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann promised a thorough investigation into the farmers death and said his government will stand by the farmers and wont bow down even if there are 100 threats of Presidents Rule in Punjab. Whichever police personnel is responsible for Shubhkarans death, action will be taken against him. Shubhkaran was not here for publicity, he came to ask for the rightful price for his agricultural produce. The Punjab government stands with the farmers. They are trying to threaten us of Presidents rule. I am not scared of these threats, I would not let any more Shubhkarans die My post doesnt matter to me so stop threatening. Think of Manipur and Nuh before threatening us Haryana Police is more responsible for the deteriorating law and order. We are not causing them any trouble I would again urge the central government to keep their ego aside and focus on the demands of the farmer, he said in a video message. Earlier in the day, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, who is among the three Union ministers engaging with the farmer leaders, called for further talks. Munda also appealed to the protesters to maintain peace and invited the leaders for a fifth round of talks on all issues, including those related to MSP. During the last round of talks, which ended past midnight Sunday, the panel of three Union ministers had proposed buying five crops moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton from farmers at MSP for five years through central agencies. Talks between the farmer leaders and three Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Munda and Nityananad Rai have been held on February 8, 12, 15 and 18. Meanwhile, addressing protesters at Shambhu, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal asked them to maintain peace and calm if they wanted to win. Do you want to win or not? he asked the farmers. He also mentioned the victory of farmers during the 2020-21 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws. Dallewal cautioned the farmers to be wary of elements who could damage the agitation. Earlier in the day, while speaking to reporters, he said farmers will march towards Delhi in a peaceful manner. Our intention is not to disturb peace, Dallewal asserted. While accusing the Centre of indulging in delaying tactics over the farmers demands, Dallewal said it should take a decision in their favour. He also condemned the government for installing multiple layers of barricades at the Punjab-Haryana border points to prevent the farmers from heading towards Delhi. The Haryana Police on Tuesday had urged its Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border points, saying protesters might use these to break barricades. These could pose a threat to security forces, Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapoor had said in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart Gaurav Yadav. In a post on X, the Haryana Police asked owners of excavators to withdraw their machines from the protest sites. If they do not do so, action will be taken, it said. For owners and operators of poclains, JCBs: Please do not provide your equipment to the protestors and withdraw them from the protest site if already done, as they may be used to cause harm to security forces. It is a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable, police said in a post on X. Why Are Farmers Protesting? To press the Centre to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver, the farmers have been camping at the border points since February 13 along with their tractor-trolleys, mini-vans and pickup trucks. The farmers are also demanding the implementation of the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the Delhi Chalo march to press the government to accept the farmers demands. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Baku has hosted a meeting of the Executive Council of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) within the 14th plenary session of the APA, a source in the Azerbaijani parliament told Trend. Abdulkadir Emin Onen, Chairman of the Executive Council, opened the meeting by delivering a report. He provided an update on the structure's status and future plans, emphasizing the assembly's critical role in tackling global concerns. The official expressed confidence that Azerbaijan will successfully chair the assembly from 2024 to 2025. During the meeting, APA Deputy Secretary-General Kia Tabatabae provided a report on the assembly's activities throughout the previous time. Then, APA Secretary-General Mohammad Reza Majidi expressed his thoughts and comments on the initiatives and resolutions being discussed. He congratulated Azerbaijan for hosting the occasion and expressed confidence in the country's successful chairmanship of the Assembly. The agenda for the 14th plenary session of the assembly was then discussed. The event focused on resolution initiatives offered by the standing committees on economic and sustainable development, budget and planning, social and cultural issues, political matters, and organizational and other issues. The meeting was attended by Amina Aghazade, the head of the Azerbaijani parliament delegation in APA, delegation members Aydin Huseynov, Ilham Mammadov, and Anar Mammadov, as well as representatives from assembly member countries and other officials. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The Dilli Chalo march, also known as the Farmers Protest 2.0, reportedly witnessed its first casualty in action after an agitator allegedly died of a head injury as Haryana Police dropped tear gas shells at the Shambhu and Khanauri border in Punjab on Wednesday afternoon to disperse farmers trying to move towards barricades stalling their protest march to Delhi. As per reports, the deceased, identified as 21-year-old Jugraj Singh, died at the Khanauri border. However, the Haryana Police clarified that no farmer died on Wednesday during the farmers protest. This is just a rumour. There is information about two policemen and one protestor being injured at Data Singh-Khanauri border who is undergoing treatment, it said in a post on X. As per top police sources, though the situation is tense on both borders, it is under control. We are firing tear gas at regular intervals due to the situation created by farmers, they said. Jind police in a statement said during the protest, some miscreants attacked the police by setting fire to paddy straw and releasing chilli powder in the air. Due to excessive smoke, many farmers took out their swords and attacked police officials. Some also used spears and machetes. So far, about 12 police personnel have been seriously injured and two have been referred to other hospitals, police said. To control the situation, police used tear gas to disperse the farmers. Later, one person was brought dead to Rajendra Hospital in Patiala. Haryana Police categorically denied firing any bullets because it was decided to use no arms against the farmers. Sources said police only used water cannons, rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse farmers. Meanwhile, a medical officer at Patialas Rajindra Hospital said prima facie the victim suffered a rubber bullet injury. Thousands of farmers resumed their agitation two days after the fourth round of talks with the government over their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver, failed. On reports of protestors getting foreign funding, top intelligence sources said, A lot of rumours about this are going on. So far, there are no reports of foreign funding. They have made no major expenses so far. They added that it is difficult to say how far this protest will go because the situation is tense. Farmers Protest Hospitals in five Punjab districts have been put on alert following the confrontation between protesting farmers and the Haryana Police. Police have erected several layers of barricades on the Punjab-Haryana borders with tense situations and not allowing the farmers to move towards the national capital over demands, including higher minimum crop prices and waiver of loans. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were seen at the protest sites, with police cautioning that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, who is among the three Union ministers engaging with the farmers leaders, has appealed to the protesters to maintain peace and resolve issues through discussions. Police have issued traffic alerts for the Delhi-NCR region as protesting farmers are set to resume their Delhi chalo march from the Shambhu and Khanauri points on the Punjab-Haryana border following the four rounds of inconclusive talks with Centre over a legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The Delhi traffic police issued an alert asking commuters to avoid several roads in the central parts of the national capital due to special traffic arrangements. On 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ marg, JLN Marg , Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 0930 hrs to 1130 hrs, the advisory said. Traffic AlertOn 21-02-24, due to special traffic arrangements kindly avoid IP Marg in both the carriageways from IP Flyover towards A-point and vice-versa, ITO Chowk, DDU Marg, BSZ marg, JLN Marg , Shanti Van crossing and Rajghat crossing from 0930 hrs to 1130 hrs. Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) February 20, 2024 Police said areas around the national capitals three border points might witness heavy traffic due to road closures. Tikri and Singhu on the Delhi-Haryana border have been sealed with heavy deployment of police personnel and multiple layers of barricades. Police said they might seal the Ghazipur border, too, if need be. #WATCH | Delhi: Security arrangements at the Tikri Border as the farmers have announced to continue to march towards the National Capital pic.twitter.com/VAxOfPPQNp ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Farmers from Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on February 13 morning began their Delhi Chalo march to press for their demands, amid heavy barricading at Haryana-Punjab border and entry points into the National Capital. However, most of them were stopped by security personnel at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjabs border with Haryana. The protesters have stayed put at the two border points since then. Over 200 farmers unions, including the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, are taking part in the march to press the Centre to accept their demands. Besides a legal guarantee of MSP, the farmers are demanding the implementation of the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, farm debt waiver, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. Traffic Diversions in Greater Noida Commuters in Greater Noida may have to face traffic diversions on Wednesday due to a protest march called by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Tikait), the local police said. Farmers have planned to converge at the Knowledge Park metro station on tractors and private vehicles. Thereafter, they will take out a march that will pass the India Expo Mart, Sharda University, LG roundabout and Moser Bear roundabout to culminate at the Collectorate in Surajpur, according to police. In view of the situation and in order to ensure smooth traffic movement, diversions, if required, may be placed from Galgotia Cut, Pari Chowk, LG Roundabout, Moser Bear Roundabout, Durga Talkies Roundabout and Surajpur Chowk, police said. Emergency vehicles will be allowed to pass safely during traffic diversions. Please use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience and in case of traffic inconvenience, you can contact the traffic helpline number 9971009001, police said in the advisory. Earlier in the day, BKU national spokesperson Rakesh Tikait had announced that farmers will stage protests outside collectorate offices in every district of the state. Tikait made the announcement while addressing a farmers congregation at Sisauli in Muzaffarnagar. After February 21s march, we have programmes on February 26 and 27 in support of the issues raised by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political). Our tractors would move towards Delhi from all directions till the Ghazipur border, he said. We will not go into Delhi but park our tractors on the highways at the border. The government has time and it should negotiate with the farmers committee (the SKM (Non-Political) team interacting with the Union Ministers), he said. Tikait also called upon the farming community to prepare for an aandolan if they have to save their lands. (With PTI inputs) A group of friends which came to celebrate a birthday party in a restaurant broke out in a fight which ended with one of them getting shot in his hand, police said on Wednesday. The incident happened inside a restaurant Monday night, when a group of around a dozen people came there to celebrate a birthday, they said. The shooter also threatened an employee of the restaurant during the row, they said. According to a complaint filed by Harshad Raj Kumawat, a native of Jaipur and a marketing executive of the restaurant, the incident took place inside the restaurant around 9 pm on Monday. Ravi along with his friends Sonu, Yogendra, Naveen and 8-10 other youths came to the restaurant to celebrate a birthday party Monday night and they were already drunk. They started eating food, and after some time, started fighting among themselves, Kumawat said in his complaint, according to police. During the fight, Kunal, one of the friends, whipped out a pistol and shot at Sandeep, who was rushed to a hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand, the complaint read. Following the complaint, an FIR was registered at Manesar Police Station. A senior police officer said that they are conducting raids to nab the accused. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis to India on Wednesday, hailing it as a historic occasion. During a bilateral meeting here at the Hyderabad House, the two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and discussed deepening partnerships in areas of defence and security, as well as trade and investment. Giving further impetus to India-Greece Strategic Partnership! PM @narendramodi & PM @kmitsotakis of the Hellenic Republic held productive discussions at Hyderabad House, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X. Speaking at a joint press conference, PM Modi said, I am happy to welcome PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his delegation to IndiaThe visit of the Greek PM to India after 16 years is a historic occasion. Its a matter of happiness that we are heading towards doubling the bilateral trade by 2030 #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis issue a joint press statement.PM Modi says, The increasing cooperation in defence and security reflects our deep mutual trust. In this sector, with the formation of Working Group, we can increase pic.twitter.com/LcghiHQ91N ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Accompanied by senior officials and a high-powered business delegation, Mitsotakis is on a two-day State visit to India. This is the first bilateral Head of State/Government level visit from Greece to India after 15 years. The last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008. PM Modi visited Athens on August 25, 2023. PM Modi said the increasing cooperation in defence and security reflects deep mutual trust between India and Greece. He highlighted the collaboration in areas such as cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. During the press conference, the Prime Minister also stressed the importance of cooperation in fighting terrorism, noting, In the fight against terrorism, India and Greece have the same concerns and priorities. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis issue a joint press statement.The Greek PM says, The world today is facing unprecedented challenges that require immediate and efficient action from the ongoing war in Ukraine to the situation in the pic.twitter.com/BY4poOGoHT ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 At the joint press conference, the Greek PM said The world today is facing unprecedented challenges that require immediate and efficient action from the ongoing war in Ukraine to the situation in the Middle East from climate change to food and energy security. One thing is certain in order for governments to tackle them, international partnerships and collective action is paramount and India has a critical role to play in this. We view India as one of the main pillars of stability and security in the wider region of Indo Pacific, he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Earlier today, the Greek PM was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. India-Greece relations have been elevated to Strategic Partnership during PM Modis visit to Greece in August 2023. In an earlier release, the Ministry of External Affairs said the two countries have also been cooperating closely in various multilateral forums. Later today, Mitsotakis attend the 9th Raisina Dialogue as the Chief Guest, where he will give a keynote address. Securing the top position generally held by anti-diabetic and cardiovascular medicines, the drug for chronic lung diseases, Foracort, now holds the top spot in the Indian pharmaceutical market. According to data by research firm IQVIA, Ciplas Foracort showed the highest growth among the top 40 brands in the Indian pharma market, with Ciplas Budecort closely behind in January. Among the top 10 brands, Foracort has shown the highest growth followed by Budecort for the month," said the monthly report released by IQVIA for January. Data shows that Foracort is the topmost brand with 83 crores of sales and a monthly growth of 20 per cent. ALSO READ | Lung Abnormalities Found in Long Covid-19 Patients with Breathlessness Foracort is an inhaler which is a respiratory medication primarily used to treat asthma symptoms and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It shows a shift in the acceptance of inhalers, as in the past, there was a fear associated with the use of inhalers. Budecort is a steroid which is used to treat and prevent the symptoms of asthma such as wheezing and shortness of breath. The IQVIAs official spokesperson, Swati Chaudhary, told News18 that the category of respiratory drugs has started growing substantially post-COVID, potentially owing to changes in environmental conditions and increasing pollution levels across various regions". Since November, Foracort has maintained its leading position, possibly attributed to the onset of the winter season along with air pollution, both known to exacerbate respiratory illnesses. Otherwise, the inhaler brand keeps fluctuating to different ranks, but among the top 10 brackets. For instance, in October, broad-spectrum antibiotic Monocef was leading the charts, followed by antibiotic Augmentin. Foracort held the third position. INHALERS ARE THE LARGEST CATEGORY According to Chaudhary, senior director of commercial business, South Asia, IQVIA, the top 40 brands in the Indian pharmaceutical market commonly feature categories such as diabetes, anti-infectives, proton pump inhibitors (PPI), pain management and respiratory therapies. Monthly analysis reveals that chronic therapy areas like diabetes and cardiovascular exhibit more stable performance," she said. The data shows that the asthma and COPD market" contributes 44 per cent to the overall respiratory market the highest compared to any other category such as cough and cold and anti-histamine medications. Chaudharys analysis also pointed out that inhalers are the top-selling category under the asthma and COPD category medications. Within asthma and COPD, inhalation preparations is the largest category with 55% contribution. It has grown at 18% year-on-year and 14% CAGR in the last five years." BLAME COVID, AIR POLLUTION & MORE The trend indicated by the market data also aligns with the observation of doctors in their clinical practice. Sample this: Dr Navneet Sood, senior consultant, pulmonology at New Delhi-based Dharamshila Narayana Suprspeciality Hospital, told News18 that he has been seeing many more people coming to him with breathing problems". This increase started before COVID-19, but it got worse afterwards. Covid-19 made us pay more attention to respiratory issues, but its not the only reason for the rise. There are a few reasons why more people are having trouble with their breathing. One big reason is air pollution." WHAT OTHER EXPERTS SAY Respiratory medicines ascent to becoming a primary category among medicine brands in India can be attributed significantly to heightened awareness among the general public, particularly in the post-Covid era," said Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, head of the department, pulmonology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad. Another health expert, Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, believes that the trend is possibly highlighting one of the health concerns faced by many people post Covid. Numerous individuals are experiencing persistent coughing that persists despite trying various remedies, persisting for months even after the initial infection." ALSO READ | Fluctuating SpO2, Cough, Asthma, Lung Disorder: Pollution Threatens to Knock The Wind out of Covid Victims He linked a study which found that the more you get infected with Covid-19, with or without knowledge, the chances of developing chronic lung diseases such as asthma increases. Post-infection, the airways become hypersensitive. This could be further triggered by rising air pollution." A significant study conducted by Christian Medical College, Vellore, found lingering lung damage after Covid-19, affecting lung function, exercise capacity and quality of life. The study titled Impact of post-COVID-19 lung damage on pulmonary function, exercise tolerance and quality of life in Indian subjects said that the Indian population showed more symptoms and lung impairment compared to other studies, highlighting the significant impact of post-Covid-19 lung damage on health and well-being. ACCEPTANCE OF INHALERS IN INDIA Foracort inhaler leading the charts indicates a notable change in Indias attitude towards inhaler usage. According to Dr Maninder Dhaliwal, an expert in paediatric pulmonology, the surge in the sale of Foracort, has both a positive and negative side to it. Foracort is an inhaler medicine. It is good that the public is now recognizing allergies and asthma as a disease which has increased the acceptance of these respiratory medicines which are given through inhalers." He said this shows that improved recognition and a decrease in stigma" associated with the use of inhalers will help in better control of these conditions. At the same time, increased use is concerning as it implies that there is a noticeable surge in these conditions both in big and small cities largely due to rising air pollution and environmental disruption caused by humans." In children, he said that there was a surge in respiratory infections causing fever, cough and bronchospasm. While fever is short-lived, cough remains for a longer time owing to pollution, irritation and possible gradual change in the bodys response over the years." Such a phenomenon may have also contributed to the use of increased inhalational medicines over the years. ALSO READ | Chest CT Scans Reveal Lung Abnormalities in Patients 2 Years After Covid, Says Study Senior consultant, pediatric ICU and paediatric pulmonology, Dhaliwal warned that breathing clean air is more urgent now than ever." The lungs are the one delicate organ in the human body in which we have limited ability for protection against the increasing insults from the environment. If we continue to neglect lung health, we stand to compromise on it and will continue to invest more in respiratory medications, like it is happening now." In a bid to ensure that multinational companies in Karnataka employ a sufficient number of people from the state, the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is planning to ask the firms to display the number of Kannadigas they employ on their notice boards. In this regard, Kannada & Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi has formed a committee comprising secretaries of various departments to provide their suggestions on framing the rules. The committee is headed by Tangadagi himself. There has been a discussion to ensure that industries put up display boards on the number of Kannadigas they have employed. We will frame rules for that. A committee has been formed and Im its chairman. We have secretaries of many departments and they have given suggestions. We will discuss and form the rules for industries and multi-national companies, the Minister said. Kannada activists have welcomed the governments move, calling it a good step towards providing more employment opportunities for Kannadigas. Its a welcome move. The companies get some subsidies and its from the taxpayers money. Its a good move to ensure private companies employ more Kannadigas and I think theres a clause as well for the companies to employ Kannadigas, Kannada activist Chetan Jeeral said. Also Read: Mohandas Pai Urges Karnataka Govt To Relook Kannadiga Rule For MNCs | Exclusive Jeeral added, Some companies would employ few individuals from other states for some specific roles but I dont think theres a dearth of talent in the Karnataka state. The latest move by the Karnataka government follows the Siddaramaiah cabinets decision to form a law that directs the signboards to include 60 per cent Kannada language on the signboards of commercial establishments. The Karnataka Assembly recently passed the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development (Amendment) Bill, which mandates having 60 per cent of signage in Kannada. This came after the state witnessed several protests and incidents of vandalism in Bengaluru in December where pro-Kannada outfits went on rampage damaging signboards that did not follow the 60-40 Kannada rule. In an unfortunate incident, from Keralas Karakkamandapam area, a 36-year-old woman and her new-born child died after the delivery of the baby was attempted using acupuncture treatment at their rented house on Tuesday evening. The womans husband Nayaz, who worked as a sound system worker and was from Poonthura was taken into custody by the Nemom police on Wednesday morning, as soon as they received information about the incident. Nawaz was arrested by the police under the charges of Section 304 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder and Section 313 which deals with miscarriage without a womans consent . A case of unnatural death was registered in this case and the police informed that it was the fourth delivery of the deceased woman, identified as Shemeera Beevi. According to the officials, she had never consulted a doctor in the past nine months of her pregnancy period. The couple allegedly sought the help of an acupuncturist instead of a medical doctor and the practitioner used to visit their rented house, a police officer said. On Tuesday, the woman developed some complications and she was finally taken to a private hospital in the evening where the doctors declared her and the baby dead on arrival. As news about the death of the woman and the new-born emerged, the local Councillor, ASHA workers and neighbours came out against Nayaz accusing him of not allowing his wife to consult a doctor and seeking proper medical treatment. Taking note of the incident, Ward Councillor Deepika said that the womans husband had not allowed ASHA workers to enter their house or talk to her. She further said, The family was not ready to permit us to enter their house or share any other details. One day, we somehow managed to enter the house and spoke to her. Then we came to know that it was her fourth pregnancy. As per the details shared by the deceased woman then, all the past deliveries were through C-section and the last one was just one year ago. So, there was no chance for a normal delivery in her case. She was scared to talk to us even if we called her over phone. Nayas said he wanted a normal delivery and insulted the entire medical system in the state, the Councillor added. While talking to the media, Deepika further alleged that the husband had claimed that they were planning to have normal delivery by taking lessons from YouTube. An elderly woman from the neighbourhood also raised serious charges against the husband and accused him of denying treatment to Shemeera. She was not allowed to talk to us. She never came out of home alone. When we advised him to give proper treatment to the pregnant woman, he said it was his wife and there was no need for others to worry about her health, the woman said. As per police, the interrogation of the husband is currently underway and other action would be taken after collecting details. (with inputs from PTI and Neethu S) Reacting sharply to the Karnataka governments decision to frame rules mandating multinational companies (MNCs) to display details of Kannadigas staffers on notice boards, former Infosys CFO TV Mohandas Pai has called it a retrograde move which could have a huge impact on Brand Bengaluru. In an exclusive conversation with News18, Pai, who is currently Chairman of Aarin Capital, requested Karnatakas Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumarwho is also Bengaluru in-charge to relook at the step and intervene as peoples trust in the government is becoming very low. This is a retrograde decision, and this should not happen. Bengaluru is a global city and people from all over the world come here primarily because we have an open transparent culture where everyone is welcomed to work. Information Technology (IT) companies, multinational companies (MNCs) and industries dont discriminate against anybody, he said. Pai asserted that industries always want to hire more local people, but the fact is there are not enough local people to fill the requirements as they are not well trained or have the required skills. All governments said they would spend on skills but what have they done? Due to that today we hire people based on the adjective criteria, he said. ALSO READ: Karnataka: MNCs To Be Asked To Display Kannadiga Employees Data, Rules To Be Out Soon He said that he does not know what the one-point agenda of the government behind the move is, but asserted that it will not help in increasing the employment of locals. Will this move get more MNCs here? No. It will scare MNCs to come in because there will be extortion from a few elements. The government needs to understand. Look at the neighbouring states Tamil Nadu has announced that any global capability centre (GCC) or MNC coming there with a salary paid to a certain level will get a subsidy of 30 per cent in the first year, 20 per cent in the second year, and 10 per cent in the third year for jobs. So, the techies will go there eventually. It is a loss for us, he said. Tamil Nadu government in its Budget has said it will incentivise the creation of high-paying jobs in new GCCs by providing a payroll subsidy. Pai highlighted that around 23 lakh people are working in IT companies in Bengaluru and asked if the Congress-led government in the state want to lose them. Citing the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOMs) latest survey data, he said that for the first time in 30 years, Hyderabad recruited more people in the IT sector than Bengaluru. This will have a huge impact on Brand Bengaluru as we did see how the government allowed the vandalism to go on earlier when a few unruly elements took the law into their own hands to vandalize the signboards which didnt have enough Kannada language on it. Everybody respects the local language and local culture. This is further going to encourage these elements and thus the government shouldnt entertain such things happening again, he said. Last year in December, the state witnessed several protests and incidents of vandalism in Bengaluru where pro-Kannada outfits went on a rampage damaging signboards that did not follow the 60-40 Kannada rule. Urging Deputy CM Shivakumar to relook at the move, Pai said, he (Shivakumar) is responsible for the image of Bengaluru. He earlier promised that in 100 days, his government would give infrastructure, but we have not seen that. Trust in the government is becoming very low thus he should intervene in this matter and look at it seriously. When asked about what the government can do to protect the interest of Kannadigas, the industrialist said that if the government really wants to protect the locals interest, then they should give them more skills and training. North Karnataka doesnt have good engineering colleges. The government should instead pick them up and tie up with triple IT, tie up with top Engineering colleges and run six-month programs, among other things to skill them for jobs. Then the government can call the companies for hiring. See, how it works. We have done this before. The government should invest more in higher education. If all this is done, then there will not be a shortage of jobs, he added. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma believes that Sandeshkhali would be the downfall of his Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress. The state BJP leaders have already been accusing the police and the administration of working hand in glove with the perpetrators as they exploited women and usurped their lands. West Bengals Sandeshkhali has been on the boil for weeks over allegations of sexual atrocities on women and land grabbing by local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders. National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Rekha Sharma on Monday said 18 complaints had been received from women in Sandeshkhali, of which two are complaints of rape. On February 12, Union Minister Smriti Irani alleged that Hindu women from lower castes had been raped regularly by TMC workers. The state police ruled out a communal angle in the violence. What is Happening in Sandeshkhali? For almost a month, Sandeshkhali, a village in West Bengal, has been witnessing a political storm amid allegations of sexual harassment by numerous women against a local Trinamool Congress workers. After the Enforcement Directorate raided TMCs Shahjahan Sheikh house in Sandeshkhali, local women came out in large numbers and alleged that Shajahan and his men forcibly grabbed their land for prawn cultivation, torturing and sexually harassing them for several years. Women in Sandeshkhali have been staging protests for the past several week in response to purported atrocities. This prompted the BJP to send a mission to look into the matter. When a team of BJP leaders went to the area, they were reportedly stopped by the Mamata Banerjee government, triggering further protests and clashes. The condition of Bengal is very bad, the journalists there who are trying to show the reality are also being arrested. The incident that happened in Sandeshkhali, one cannot even imagine about it, Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Leader of opposition in West Bengal assembly Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday described as horrific and emblematic of anarchy the situation in Sandeshkhali after visiting the trouble-torn area following the intervention of the Calcutta high court. Fugitive TMC strongman Sheikh Shahjahan is singularly responsible for unrest in West Bengals Sandeshkhali, and law and order there cant be restored so long as he is on the run, Calcutta high court chief justice T S Sivagnanam said on Tuesday, adding that Mamata Banerjee govt cant be supporting him. One person is holding entire population to ransom and defying lawLet him appear before court and submit that allegations (levelled by ED) are baseless, CJ said. Two Trinamool Congress MPs have welcomed West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Boses move to open the doors of the Raj Bhavan for the victimised women of trouble-torn region who feel unsafe in their homes. Contai MP Sisir Adhikari and his younger son Tamluk MP Dibyendu have praised the governor for realising the situation of the tormented women of Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. A Sikh IPS officer, who was deputed to prevent senior West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting restive Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district, on Tuesday slammed saffron party activists for allegedly dubbing him as a Khalistani. BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, accompanying Adhikari, claimed that the police officer wasnt fulfilling his duties, but dismissed the allegation that BJP supporters called him a Khalistani. National Commission for Schedule Tribes has issued a notice on Sandeshkhali. The panel will send a team to the area tomorrow, February 22. The Bharatiya Janata Party held a press conference on Wednesday morning, where former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that Mamata Banerjee will have to pay for the Sandeskhali incident. He further questioned why other parties were silent on the issue. #WATCH | BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad says, Sandeskhali issue is seriousWhat is emerging about the blatant assault, humiliating treatment and sexual assault of women is a shame on our society and democracy. Mamata Banerjee is still defending it. Why?One journalist was also pic.twitter.com/tHY4myjCoR ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 Sandeshkhali issue is seriousWhat is emerging about the blatant assault, humiliating treatment and sexual assault of women is a shame on our society and democracy. Mamata Banerjee is still defending it. Why? One journalist was also arrested. What does Mamata Banerjee want to hide, and why? To save her political reputation, a woman CM is risking the honour of women. Why? Where has her conscience died? Why are the parties silent? I heard that a woman leader of the CPI(M) visited the area but the CPI(M) has not opposed it (the incident), it has not made a public comment. Rahul Gandhi is silent, Prasad said. BJP said it will release a documentary on Sandeshkhali tomorrow (February 22) at 9:00 am. The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the Centre to pay Rs 60 lakh worth damages to a military nurse who was dismissed from her service after her marriage. The top court said that the grounds of marriage was coarse case of gender discrimination. Passing the order on a request by the military nurse Selina John the top court bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Dutta said that any law based on gender partiality is constitutionally impermissible, an NDTV report said. At the time of her termination in 1998, John held the rank of Lieutenant. In 2012, she moved the Armed Forces Tribunal, which then ordered in her favour saying that she should be reinstated. However, the Centre challenged this order in the apex court in 2019. The top court bench, in its order on February 14, held that the Armed Forces Tribunals judgment did not need any interference. It noted that the 1977 introduced rule, which allowed termination from the Military Nursing Service on the grounds of marriage had been withdrawn in 1995. Such rule was ex facie manifestly arbitrary, as terminating employment because the woman has got married is a coarse case of gender discrimination and inequality. Acceptance of such patriarchal rule undermines human dignity, right to non-discrimination and fair treatment, the top courts bench said. It further said in its order, Laws and regulations based on gender-based bias are constitutionally impermissible. Rules making marriage of women employees and their domestic involvement a ground for disentitlement would be unconstitutional. However, the bench tweaked the Tribunals judgment in terms of compensation. The tribunal had asked the Centre to reinstate John and provide back her wages. The top court, instead, asked the Centre to pay Rs 60 lakh in damages. Lt. John worked, for a short period, worked as a nurse in a private organisation as well, the bench noted. The Centre has been given eight weeks time after receiving the court order to complete the payment of compensation to John. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijani Parliament's Chairperson Sahiba Gafarova has discussed the recent extraordinary presidential election in Azerbaijan during a meeting with the President of the National Assembly and Speaker of the House of Representatives of Thailand Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, a source in the parliament told Trend. Gafarova underlined that this meeting is an excellent opportunity to discuss issues of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the countries. Matha expressed gratitude for the hospitality shown to him. The guest congratulated President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on his election victory and expressed confidence in the country's continued progress under his leadership. The head of the Azerbaijani parliament emphasized the historical significance of the recent election for the country, which was held for the first time throughout all of Azerbaijan's sovereign territory, including areas liberated from occupation. She briefed her counterpart on Azerbaijan's liberation of its lands from the 30-year Armenian occupation, the full restoration of the country's sovereignty, and the extensive reconstruction efforts currently underway in the liberated territories. Additionally, the chairperson talked about the mine threat posed by Armenia. The assembly's president remarked that his country consistently supported UN Security Council resolutions regarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. During the conversation, information was also provided about Azerbaijan's path of democratic development and the existing atmosphere of multiculturalism and tolerance in the country. The meeting parties exchanged opinions on the ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in trade, education, and tourism, as well as discussed expanding the inter-parliamentary ties. The presidential election was held in Azerbaijan on February 7. Seven candidates competed in the election. According to the latest data from the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev won the election with 92.12 percent (4,567,458) of the votes. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The winter of 2022-23 was unusual. While Delhi, one of the most polluted cities recorded an astonishing improvement in air quality, the PM2.5 values surged to unexpectedly high levels in the coastal city of Mumbai during October to January, surprising many. This abnormal change intrigued atmospheric scientists who dived in to investigate. ALSO READ | While Delhi AQI Remains in Poor, Mumbai Is Worse; Citizens Blame Construction Activity, Rising Vehicular Density After a year-long research, the team led by scientists from Bengaluru-based National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) and Pune-based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) has published their findings in a peer-reviewed journal, Science of the Total Environment. According to the study, this unprecedented variation in PM2.5 values in 2022 was due to a rare meteorological phenomenon linked to climate change. WHAT HAPPENED DURING WINTER OF 2022? The PM2.5 levels had shown a surprising variation over several Indian cities during the winter of 2022. While the pollution levels dropped significantly over Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad compared to the national average of the past five years, cities in the south-west such as coastal Mumbai recorded a 30% increase in daily average PM2.5 values from October to January. In fact, Delhi not only just saw a reduction in the number of days with severe AQI from 20 in 2021 to just six till December 2022, there were also no severe + days, when AQI shoots up to 450. We noticed a peculiar shift in the wind patterns, speed and direction. The transport-level winds during November 2022 were mostly northerly and relatively faster. They escaped most of the NCR, and blew towards the south-west parts of India into cities like Mumbai. In the process, they led to a significant influx of pollutants, which would have otherwise choked Delhi in winter," said senior atmospheric scientist Dr Gufran Beig, Chair Professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru and also the lead author. Since the surface-level winds were relatively slower, the pollutants eventually got trapped as they intruded cities like Mumbai, which also saw frequent calmer wind spells and delayed cleaner-sea wind reversal during this period. All these factors combined together slowed down the dispersal of pollutants, which eventually worsened the air quality. In contrast, too feeble western disturbances (WDs) over North India, which normally govern the wind patterns during winter, the absence of rain, clouds and faster ventilation led to a significant improvement in air quality in the North," said co-author senior climate scientist Dr. R H Kripalani, from IITM, Pune. WHY THE CHANGE IN WIND PATTERNS? According to the team, this sudden change in air quality was due to the peculiar wind patterns, which may have been a manifestation of the first triple dip La Nina of the 21st century, which was in its retreat phase at that time. The team used a newly developed advanced NIAS-SAFAR air quality forecasting model for the study. La Nina occurs when the surface waters over the equatorial Pacific Ocean become cooler. It is a naturally occurring phenomenon and occurs every two to seven years, but it lasted for consecutive years from 2020 to early 2023, thus a rare triple-dip La Nina. It is not normally known to influence air quality but according to scientists, its impact on circulation patterns in 2022 over Indias air quality was more potent due to its exceptionally prolonged phase. LINK TO CLIMATE CHANGE? Dr Beig, who was also the Founder Project Director of Indias first air quality forecasting system SAFAR at IITM-Pune, says climate change is influencing many natural phenomena like La Nina. It is also the first time that a study has established a link between air quality and climate change. ALSO READ | Why Delhi Air Worsens During Winters? Learn in ClassesWithNews18 Such episodes, in all probability, are set to increase if a number of drastic steps are not taken to address the root cause of deteriorating air quality, which is controlling emissions at the source. That should be our long-term strategy," he added. On February 21, 1952, a spark ignited in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Students at the university, fuelled by a love for their mother tongue, Bangla, defied the oppressive rule of West Pakistan which imposed Urdu as the sole official language. Their peaceful protest, demanding recognition and respect for Bangla, turned tragic when police opened fire, claiming the lives of five young voices. This sacrifice, however, became a potent symbol of linguistic resistance, echoing across the globe. In 1999, UNESCO recognized the significance of this event, declaring February 21 as International Mother Language Day, a day to celebrate linguistic diversity, promote multilingualism, and remember the struggles for language rights. It serves as a reminder that languages are more than just words; they are vessels of culture, identity, and the very essence of who we are. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY 2024 QUOTES Language is the road map of a culture. Rita Mae Brown The limits of my language mean the limits of my world. Ludwig Wittgenstein Those who know only one language cannot put a name to their own thoughts. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe ALSO READ: International Mother Language Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, and Languages in India, World Every language is a world unto itself. Umberto Eco Diversity of languages is a strength, not a weakness. Nelson Mandela Languages are the most powerful instruments of preserving and transmitting civilization. Desmond Tutu A language is worth dying for. Moazzam Hussain (Bangladeshi linguist) Respect for ones mother tongue is respect for oneself. Chinua Achebe Languages are living things. They change, they grow, they die. Elie Wiesel Let us celebrate the languages that make our world vibrant and diverse. Kofi Annan HAPPY INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY 2024 WISHES May International Mother Language Day remind us to cherish the unique tapestry of languages that colour our world. May multilingualism be embraced, opening doors to understanding and empathy across cultures. May every child have the opportunity to learn and thrive in their mother tongue. May the voices of marginalized languages be heard and celebrated. May the spirit of the Bangladeshi students ignite a passion for language preservation in all of us. May we honour the sacrifices made in the name of language rights. May our words bridge gaps and build bridges between communities. May languages continue to evolve and adapt, reflecting the dynamic nature of our world. May multilingualism be seen as a valuable asset, not a barrier. May International Mother Language Day inspire a future where all languages are respected and valued. International Mother Language Day FAQs What is it? International Mother Language Day is a global event celebrated on February 21 each year to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. It also raises awareness about endangered languages and the importance of preserving them. Why is it celebrated? There are around 7,000 languages spoken in the world, but sadly, many are endangered. This day celebrates the richness and value of this diversity. Language is deeply connected to culture and identity. Protecting languages helps preserve cultural heritage and traditions. Being multilingual has many benefits, including cognitive development, improved communication skills, and better understanding of different cultures. This day promotes learning additional languages. History The idea came from Bangladesh, where students were killed on February 21st, 1952, while protesting for the recognition of their mother tongue, Bengali. UNESCO declared it an official day in 1999. How is it celebrated? Zendaya is known for her bold and daring fashion choices, both on and off the red carpet. She loves to elevate classic silhouettes and push boundaries to inspire fans with her confidence and unique sense of style. Her fashion choices are an extension of her personality, and her recent ensemble is no exception. Hollywood sensation Zendaya wore one of the most Instagrammed dresses for the Dune: Part 2 promo tour at the Shangri-La Hotel in Paris on February 12 from the Alaias Fall 2024 collection by Pieter Mulier. The 27-year-old fashionista wore an asymmetric white dress featuring a swirl-shaped bodice created by 3D-printed fabric that moulds around her torso. This off-the-shoulder white exudes a futuristic and elegant vibe. The white dress included a light-as-air skirt that fell to the floor to create a mini-train. She finished her outfit with a pair of pointy white pumps and pushed her hair into a bun. Zendaya skipped out on wearing any accessories, allowing the outfit to be the star. Have a look at the beauty below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by PIETER MULIER (@pieter_mulier) The actress kept her makeup minimal, with impeccably shaped darkened eyebrows, shimmery eyeshadow, mascaraed eyelashes, and a finely contoured nose. Her glossy pink lips made her look flawless. Zendaya was joined by co-stars Austin Butler, Timothee Chalamet, and Rebecca Ferguson. Originally, Dune: Part Two was scheduled to release in theatres in October 2023, but because of last years dual Hollywood strikes, it was pushed back and forth several times until March 1, 2024, was picked as a solid date. With the nearing of the films release, the stars of Dune 2 are on a promotional spree around the globe to promote the film. As a bona fide style icon, of course, Zendaya is dishing out some fashion goals during the Dune 2 press tour. Prior to this off-the-shoulder asymmetric white dress, the actress attended the Dune 2 photocall in London on Valentines Day. During the photocall, the Dune star was seen exuding some gothic look goals in a maroon suit from Roksanda, which featured a unique style of skirts over pants. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roksanda Ilincic MBE (@roksandailincic) During her visit to the Dune 2 premiere in Paris in February 2023, she opted for a custom two-piece gold look by Louis Vuitton. Zendaya chose to wear a high-neck blouse and a long skirt, which literally stole the hearts of many. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Louis Vuitton (@louisvuitton) Talking about her red-carpet event in Mexico City on February 6, Zendaya slipped into a fully custom Bottega Veneta by Matthieu Blazy in a mocha coffee monochrome outfit. With a super cropped, long-sleeved top and a thigh-high skirt slit, she looked drop-dead gorgeous. It is a sad day for radio listeners as Ameen Sayani has passed away. The radio jockey, best known to host Geetmala on All India Radio (AIR), died on Tuesday night, February 20. Ameen Sayani was 91. The news of his death was confirmed by his son, Rajil Sayani. Speaking with The Indian Express, Rajil said he suffered a heart attack on Tuesday night after which he was rushed to the HN Reliance Hospital, Mumbai. The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldnt save him and he was declared dead, he told the publication. It is reported that the funeral will take place on Thursday as a few relatives are expected to reach Mumbai on Wednesday. Ameen Sayani was a renowned radio host. His iconic opening line, Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon, continues to echo in the ears of those who have been listening to radio since the 1950s. Ameen would often host shows featuring music. He became a household name when he started hosting Binaca Geetmala. The 30-minute show was started in 1952 and became an instant hit. While the show was renamed a few times, including Hit Parade and Cibaca Geetmala, the title Geetmala remained synonymous to him. Following the news of his death, many radio listeners took to X (previously known as Twitter) to express their heartbreak over his death. The demise of #AmeenSayani marks the end of an era in Indian broadcasting, read a post. Rest in joy, Ameen bhai. Thank you for the sweet music and the lovely memories of Binaca Geetmala, added another. It is truly a heartbreaking day for a radio listeners. News18 offers our condolences to his family and fans. It is no secret that Khatron Ke Khiladi will be back soon with its 14th season. While everyone is eager to know who will be participating in the stunt-based reality show this time, Bigg Boss 17 fame Navid Sole has now expressed excitement to be a part of Rohit Shettys show. Navid was recently speaking to E-Times when he shared that he would be interested in participating in Khatron Ke Khiladi 14. Rohit Shettys While Bigg Boss was intense, pushing myself in a different arena like stunt-based challenges sounds thrilling, he said and then shared, I handle most things well, but heights and spiders send shivers down my spine. Khatron Ke Khiladi would be a chance to confront those fears head-on. While Im generally okay with creepy crawlies, spiders are a different story they make me uneasy. This admission highlights the personal challenges I anticipate on the show, he added. This comes a day after it was reported that Munawar Faruqui and Mannara Chopra have been confirmed for KKK 14. A report by Times Now claimed that the two were offered Khatron Ke Khiladi 14 following which they confirmed their participation. The stand-up comedian was roped in for Rohit Shettys Khatron Ke Khiladi even for the 12th season. However, he had to back out of the show at the last moment due to visa-related issues. Munawar Faruqui, Mannara Chopra and Navid Sole were recently seen in Bigg Boss 17. The show concluded on January 28, 2024, with the Munawar emerging as the winner. Abhishek Kumar was the first runner-up of the show followed by Mannara Chopra. Khatron Ke Khiladi is a popular reality show which is known for its spine-chilling stunts. It showcases a courageous group of celebrity-participants who join this competition to confront their worst fears. The 13th season of the show was won by rapper Dino James. It was shot in Cape Town, South Africa. In the world of K-pop, social media can be a double-edged sword, offering both fame and scrutiny. BLACKSWAN, a rising group known for its diverse lineup, recently faced the darker side of social media when member Gabi deactivated her Twitter account due to a barrage of hate tweets. BLACKSWAN has gained attention for its unique lineup, which notably lacks Korean members, a departure from the norm in the industry. Despite this, the group has worked hard to showcase their talents and build a dedicated fan base. Gabi, a Brazilian-German member, joined BLACKSWAN in May 2022 and quickly became a standout for her talents and visuals. However, her recent ordeal on Twitter has highlighted the challenges that come with fame. The controversy began when Gabis father liked a tweet that indirectly criticised another girl group, X:IN, and their latest release. The tweet, which featured the respect line, was perceived by some as a jab at X:IN. Due to a language barrier, Gabis father later apologised for liking the tweet, but the damage was done. Following this incident, Gabi became the target of online attacks, with many criticising her nationality and other aspects of her identity. Fans of BLACKSWAN quickly came to Gabis defence, denouncing the now-deleted hate comments and offering their support. Mind you Gabi talks about Brazil every chance she gets, even adds subtitles to her tiktok for her Brazilian fans. She recognizes shes in a global group and speaks the language all the members understand and even on lives she speaks Portuguese, so you dont know anything lol. https://t.co/Lifq8wz8DO olahobi//BS (@olahobi03) February 19, 2024 Gabi speaks Portuguese all the time, especially on live talks about Brazilian food, music and culture so what are you on about , when another brazillian girl had the chance to debut she also immediately supported her too, y'all just stay yapping https://t.co/kRPLYTpWwD Hiii (@Zwinkit) February 18, 2024 However, in response to the overwhelming negativity, Gabi decided to deactivate her Twitter account. However, before doing so, she took to her Instagram story to address the situation and urge people to spread kindness. Fans have continued to show their support for Gabi and the rest of BLACKSWAN. Messages of love and admiration have flooded social media, with fans expressing their unconditional support for Gabi and their appreciation for her talents. Just know that Lumina loves and adores you. You are a breath of fresh air, and we wish you much success, wrote one fan, encapsulating the sentiments of many. @gabsdalcin just know that lumina love and adore you. You are a breath of fresh air and we wish you many success pic.twitter.com/5HGgTg4hSH Xdkook stream cat and mouse by Blackswan (@xdkookbrook) February 19, 2024 Gabi, you bring so much light and happiness to the group!! We love you so so so so much! Youll always be our favourite star, love you Gabi! wrote another, highlighting the impact Gabi has had on BLACKSWANs fan base. Gabi you bring so much light and happiness to the group!! We love you so so so so much! Youll always be our favorite star, love you Gabi! @gabsdalcin pic.twitter.com/fJoRz4eTa0 nat nat | (@faerichai) February 19, 2024 As Gabi navigates this difficult time, she can take comfort in knowing that she has a strong support system in her fans. Iconic American filmmaker Martin Scorsese shared his thoughts on the current state of cinema and the future of the industry during a press conference at the Berlin Film Festival, where he received an Honorary Golden Bear. Addressing concerns about the potential decline of cinema, Scorsese expressed optimism, suggesting that cinema is not dying but rather evolving. According to Variety, Martin Scorsese said, I dont think its dying at all, no. I think its transforming. He highlighted the rapid evolution of technology, which has changed the way audiences consume films. While acknowledging the traditional allure of movie theatres as communal spaces, he emphasised the importance of embracing new platforms and formats. Martin Scorsese observed that technology has changed so rapidly and extensively that the only constant is the individuals unique voice. He noted that creative expression can now manifest in various forms, from short videos on TikTok to lengthy films or miniseries. Despite the dominance of streaming services and the rise of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, Scorsese encouraged filmmakers not to fear technology but to use it as a tool for artistic expression. Dont become a slave to the technology let us control the technology and put it in the right direction, he advised. The right direction being from the individual voice, rather than something that is just consumed and tossed away. Scorsese also shared updates on his upcoming projects, including a film about Jesus, which he described as a concept he is still contemplating. He expressed a desire to create a unique and thought-provoking film that is both entertaining and meaningful. Im not quite sure yet how to go about it, Scorsese admitted. He suggested that after completing their promotional activities for the film, perhaps they would get some sleep and then awaken with a fresh idea on how to do it. In addition to receiving the Honorary Golden Bear, Martin Scorseses 2006 film The Departed was screened as a homage to the director. His latest film, Killers of the Flower Moon, has received 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Director, Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Robert De Niro and Best Actress for Lily Gladstone. Netflix has recently dropped the trailer for Irish Wish, a romantic comedy with a blend of romance, humour and a touch of magic. Starring Lindsay Lohan in the lead role, the film is set to stream on March 15 and is directed by Janeen Damian, with a screenplay by Kirsten Hansen. Irish Wish follows the story of Maddie, played by Lohan, a woman who finds herself at a crossroads when the love of her life gets engaged to her best friend. As Maddie travels to Ireland for the destination wedding, she wishes she could be the one marrying him. However, her wish takes a surprising turn when she wakes up as the bride-to-be. The trailer introduces viewers to Maddies world, where she is shown to be a book editor working with Paul (Alexander Vlahos), a writer she has feelings for. On her journey to the wedding venue, Maddie meets a charming Irish stranger, played by Ed Speleers, but realizes that her heart still belongs to Paul. Despite her regrets about not expressing her feelings to Paul, Maddie decides not to ruin his wedding, as he is engaged to her best friend, Emma (Elizabeth Tan). As Maddie grapples with her conflicting emotions, her mother (Jane Seymour) encourages her to speak up for herself. Feeling that it is too late to confess her feelings to Paul, Maddie makes a wish to swap lives with Emma and wakes up in Emmas place, with Paul by her side. The trailer teases a complex love triangle as Maddie navigates her new reality. She continues to cross paths with the Irish stranger, leading her to question her true feelings. I know this sounds strange, but Im not sure this is supposed to be my life," Maddie says, hinting at the internal struggle she faces. Supported by her friend Heather (Ayesha Curry), Maddie embarks on a journey of self-discovery, trying to find true love and happiness. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, Maddie learns valuable lessons about love, friendship and the power of wishes. Irish Wish marks Lohans return to Netflix following her role in Falling for Christmas, where she starred opposite Chord Overstreet. Her next project with Netflix, Our Little Secret, is currently in production and will see her sharing the screen with Kristin Chenoweth and Ian Harding. Panna Rayal, who is popularly known for his thriller movies Calling Bell and Rakshasi, is currently making headlines for his third thriller, Inti No. 13. The movie has been creating a buzz for a very long time. Earlier, the makers unveiled the trailer, which received immense love from the audience. Now, they have surprised the viewers and revealed the release date of the movie. According to reports, the much-awaited movie is all set to hit screens on March 1, 2024, as a summer special. Inti No. 13 is currently undergoing post-production formalities and is nearing completion. Reports suggest that the film is touted as a horror and mystery thriller. It is set against a mysterious backdrop, as per the makers. The thriller is being backed by Hesan Pasha under the banner of Regal Film Production. Meanwhile, in a recent media interaction, speaking about the project director, Panna Rayal said that the twists in the movie are going to thrill the audience. To date, audiences might have watched multiple horror movies, but Inti No. 13 is going to create a sensation. To make things better, we have roped in a Hollywood technician to take care of the thrills, said Panna. Producer Hesan Pasha said, Whatever Panna told me was presented on the screen as an advertisement. Inti No. 13 is a new kind of movie which the Telugu audience has not seen till now. This film has been screened to a level that surpasses his past films. We are coming to the audience with this different movie on March 1. Everyone will enjoy this movie, he said. Vinod Yajamanya wrote the films soundtrack, and the producers claim that his excellent background score would significantly improve the proceedings. Director Panna adds that the makers did not think one bit about spending more money on the technical aspects of the film, which are going to be super special in this film. The film has lyrics by Rambabu Gosala. This thriller is produced by Hesan Pasha. While Naveed Babu, Shivangi Mehra, Irfaan, Nikisha, Anand Raj, and Thanikella Bharani play the key parts in Inti No. 13. The cinematography is handled by P. S. Manikarnan. Sainath Budwel is the editor, while K. Srinivas is the choreographer. While Panna Royal and Venkat Baalagoni wrote the dialogue. After spending some quality time together and attending the wedding of their friends Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani in Goa, parents-to-be Varun Dhawan and Natasha Dalal were spotted leaving on Wednesday. In a few videos going viral on social media, Varun and Natasha can be seen at the Goa airport as they leave the state after attending Rakul and Jackkys wedding. They were among the selective BTown celebs who were invited to the wedding. In the video, the two can be seen entering the airport with Natasha, with the latters cute baby bump quite visible. As the couple entered the airport premises, media personnel congratulated them to which Varun also responded and thanked them for their wishes. While Varun can be seen dressed in a white T-shirt with blue jeans teamed up with a colourful jacket, mom-to-be Natasha Dalal chose a loose outfit with a long shrug. Notably, Varun Dhawan and Natasha Dalal were among the first ones to reach Goa. On Monday, the couple were spotted arriving at the Goa airport. They were also seen taking up the opportunity to try some local delicacies. Varun shared glimpses of the delicious-looking food with Natasha seated at the table. Varun Dhawan, Natasha Expecting First Child Taking to Instagram, Varun Dhawan shared an adorable monochrome picture with his wife Natasha Dalal to make the announcement. In the photo, the couple can be seen posing inside their Mumbai house, with their pet dog Joey also joining them in the photo. Varun can be seen sweetly planting a kiss on Natashas baby bump while cradling her belly. We are pregnant Need all your blessings and love #myfamilymystrength, the actor wrote in the caption. As soon as they made the announcement, congratulatory messages started pouring in from fans and their fellow celebrities. Many including Karan Johar, Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Abhishek Bachchan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dia Mirza, Kartik Aaryan, Kiara Advani, and Rakul Preet Singh among others congratulated them. Last seen in Nitesh Tiwaris Bawaal alongside Janhvi Kapoor and Amar Kaushiks Bhediya with Kriti Sanon, Varun Dhawan has quite a few exciting projects lined up including Baby John and the Indian adaptation of Russo Brothers Citadel with Samantha Ruth Prabhu as his co-star. The teaser of Baby John was recently unveiled, showing Varun Dhawan in a fierce avatar. Press Release February 21, 2024 Senate Blue Ribbon Chairperson Sen. Pia Cayetano's opening statement Transcript of opening statement on 5th Dirty Ashtray award received by Philippines This public hearing of the Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, known as the Blue Ribbon, is hereby called to order. This Committee will tackle the issues surrounding the participation of the Philippine Delegation in the WHO FCTC COP10, which resulted in the Philippines receiving its 5th Dirty Ashtray Award. This is based on the privilege speech that this representation delivered last February 14, 2024. Before I give my opening statement, may I ask that the oath of the resource persons is taken? Can you all stand please? --- I acknowledge the presence of Sen. JV Ejercito. Sen. JV, welcome. The former Chairman of the Committee on Health. Sen. JV, do you have an opening statement? --- Sen JV: Very alarming; kids, young men and women are already on vapes. That's why I am here, we want to make sure this will be regulated. Nagtataka bakit napunta sa DTI. --- Thank you, Sen. JV. I also have a copy of Sen. Joel Villanueva's opening statement. He asked that we insert this in the record. But let me just state that he basically expressed his concern due to tobacco related diseases. And I'll read an excerpt from Sen. Joel. "Kaya nga po tayo ay nalulungkot at nababahala nang marinig natin na sa ika-limang pagkakataon, nagawaran ng Global Alliance for Tobacco Control ang Pilipinas ng Dirty Ashtray award. Bakit po ito nangyari at bakit hinayaan ng ating mga health officials na mangyari ito? We need to get to the bottom of this because we do not want to harm the country's reputation with regards to strengthening health regulations, including tobacco control. In today's hearing, we want to hear from the officials of the DOH and the other members of the PH delegation on what transpired and to make the responsible persons accountable for this incident." So we insert his entire speech into the record. So I will proceed with my opening statement. --- On the event of the WHO FCTC, also known as the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Conference held in Panama City Feb. 5-10, the Global Alliance for Tobacco Control (GATC) - a civil society alliance group whose mission is to unite the global tobacco control community and serve as the voice of civil society to accelerate implementation of the WHO FCTC, awarded the notorious Dirty Ashtray to the Philippine delegation for the 5th time for blocking global tobacco control efforts on the last day of the 10th session of the said conference. The Dirty Ashtray Award is a well known, publicly recognized award to call out those influenced by lobbying for the tobacco industry. The criteria to earn this award is when public officials succumb to, or when the government accepts, supports, or endorses policies or legislation in collaboration with the tobacco industry. Bakit tayo nagkaroon ng Dirty Ashtray award? Why would we want our Philippine delegation associated with a Dirty Ashtray award? Why would we want to be known as succumbing to the lobby of the tobacco group? This is a question that I will ask all of you. Imbes na itaguyod at ipaglaban ang kalusugan ng mamamayang Pilipino, nag-attend ang napakaraming opisyales dito sa WHO event. So kasama din yun sa gusto nating alamin. Wala po akong problema, hindi po isyu na naga-attend tayo ng conference. Naga-attend din po ako ng conference. Pero itong conference na ito, ang Philippins ang may pinakamalaking delegation. At ang delegation natin ay, kasama dito, and please correct me when I'm wrong when I give you the floor, of course we have our head of delegation, Atty. Hubert Guevara from the Office of the President, Deputy Executive Secretary. Then we also have the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Health, along with the Department of Health is the Food and Drug Administration, sa inyo naman talaga ito because it is a WHO event. And then there's the Department of Trade, there's the National Tobacco Administration, there is the Department of Agriculture... Saan dito yung representatives natin from the Department of Agriculture? Pero iba ka pa, no? You are from NTA, right? So separately, as far as I know, and maybe you can just confirm the list of your delegation, Secretary Guevara, may Department of Agriculture din na nag-attend, then there's the Department of Interior and Local Government, yes, nag-attend din kayo. Then meron ding from PLLO. Dami. Lahat kayo. So I will want to hear from all of you what your participations were in that conference and what your knowledge is on the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes, HTPs. I will test your knowledge because if you are attending these conferences, then I am assuming that you are going to be participating there in a substantial way. And, did I mention DepEd? Hindi ko yata nabanggit si DepEd. But DepEd was also present, no? Kayo mismo? And you should be there because the children are the targets of these novel tobacco product companies, and of course, still the tobacco companies. And then later on, I will also acknowledge the resource persons coming from the civil society, but I was just mentioning the names of agencies that were present there. So before I turn over the floor to the head of delegation to give your opening remarks or your position paper, I just want to make sure that the public that is watching this Blue Ribbon hearing knows enough to understand why I call this hearing for the Blue Ribbon. During the pandemic, there were a lot of reported cases... they are known as EVALI cases. Ito yung e-cigarettes or vaping use associated lung injury. So all of this was in the news. I would say 5 years ago, I did not even know what an ecig is. I didn't even hear of it. What we see are people smoking. But in the last maybe half a decade, yun na nga, naging ano na, common sa atin to hear of people vaping, for people using ecigs, that's the common term used. But there are technical terms for this that differentiates one from the other. HTPs, novel tobacco products, and so on and so forth. But at the end of the day, the ill effects of these products are undisputed. And you can see from these pictures the unquestionable adverse effects of e-cigarettes on health. Nakakamatay at nakakasira ng buhay ng mga tao, including ang mga kabataan natin. 1 in 5 adult Filipinos are currently tobacco users. That's 1 in 5. So 20 percent. That's not something to be proud of. Sa mga bata naman, ages 13-15, 12.5 percent, which is equivalent to around 762,000 students are currently tobacco users. When it comes to vapes and ecigs, as of 2021, 2.7 million Filipinos are vape users. Is that small, is that big? Well think about it this way, 5 years ago, may vape users ba? O ngayon may vape users na tayo. And the studies show, the research shows that most people do not shift from cigarette smoking to vape or ecig using. They become dual users. This is not a health hearing so I will not go into the details. But I need to explain because we have students, reporters, and they need to understand bakit ba napunta sa Blue Ribbon ito. Dahil ang Blue Ribbon, kailangan iniintindi niya kung ginagawa ng government officials ang trabaho nila. So kung ang Department of Health, trabaho nila ang kalusugan, ineexpect ko, sila ang mag-iintindi nun. So kung yung ibang government officials nakikialam doon, nanggugulo pa, kailangan ko din malaman yun dahil hindi na nila trabaho manggulo. And it becomes a crime if they are doing that. So about 14 percent, 1 in 7 students aged 13-15 say they are now currently using e-cigarettes. I ask you, those of you sitting here, may anak ba kayo? I have a 13 year old son, once a week natatanong ko siya kung alam niya yan, alam niya bawal, but I am so scared. When is that day that it's going to be an uso thing for him and his friends? And then nababalitaan nila sa news na Dirty Ashtray award tayo dahil pinaglalaban ng mga officials natin na, and I'll just highlight this one thing that's very upsetting to me. Articles 9 and 10 specifically of the Convention refer to the need to report. I will read it to you. Here in the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, there's Article 9 and 10. Article 9 deals with regulation of the content of tobacco products. Article 10 deals with regulation of tobacco product disclosure. So sa madaling salita, Article 9 says kailangan magkaroon ng testing, measuring, of the contents and emissions of tobacco products, and to regulate it. Article 10 says, i-disclose ito. Ipaalam sa publiko. Kasi ang lumalabas na information galing sa mga tobacco and sa mga companies that sell vapes and e-cigarettes is, mas okay sayo yan, healthy sayo yan. So sabi ng WHO Framework, i-disclose niyo, kailangan sabihin niyo sa tao, ano ang laman ng mga produktong yan, ano ang laman ng vape, may asido ba yan? Anong chemicals meron niyan, nakakamatay ba yan, nakakakalbo ba yan, nadudurog ba ang laman-loob mo diyan? Hindi ko alam. Hindi ko nga alam, eh. So we should know. Yun lang naman ang sabi ng Article 9, i-disclose niyo. Diba 'pag bumili kayo ng pagkain, canned goods, nakasulat doon kung ano ang laman ng canned goods na yun, sodium, kung may beans man nun, beans. Kung bawal ka sa karne, alam mong may karne, ah hindi ako kakain nito. So dapat yung nilalanghap mo sa vapes and ecigs, alam mo rin ang laman. Yun ang sabi ng Article 9. I-disclose. To test and measure the content para kapag sinabi nila, syempre ano idi-disclose nila kung ayaw nila ipa-test? Kailangan ipa-test yun, diba? Para alam kung ano ang laman nun. Lumagpas ba yun sa percent na safe sa human? Is there such a thing as safe for certain chemicals? Baka wala naman safe. That's why we have to test, and then idi-disclose. So sa pagkakaalam ko, and we will now open the floor for the resource persons to speak, ito yung hinarang. Ito yung natagalan at hindi tuloy nabigyan ng resolution so hindi tayo naka-move forward to create an expert group that would be able to finalize the implementation of these provisions. So babalik tayo ngayon and my challenge now, and at the end of the hearing, I will ask DOH, if they have the political will and authority to do it, and if they have the support of the other agencies, o sige, kung sabihin niyong we are sovereign, kasi may nakikita ko sa position papers niyo, we are sovereign, okay we are sovereign, kaya natin? Do we have the political will to test these products, to ensure that the emissions and the contents of these products would be made known to the public, so that ang bawat nanay, ang bawat tatay, ang bawat teenager, ang bawat lolo at lola, alam nila kung ano ang nilalanghap nila. That will be my question at the end of the hearing. So on that note, I give the floor to Atty. Hubery Guevara, for I understand you are the head of the delegation. So you can proceed with your opening statement, Sir. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The US to continue offering its support for reaching peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said during a briefing on February 21, Trend reports. "Secretary Blinken believes that peace is within reach, and he discussed that directly with the leaders of both of those countries, and encouraged them to work together to bridge what ultimately are just remaining few issues. We will continue to encourage those countries to reach a peace agreement. I know that the two leaders met bilaterally in Munich. We will continue to offer the assistance and the support of the United States in reaching an agreement," he said. On February 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held a joint meeting with Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan at the initiative of Olaf Scholz. Furthermore, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan. The sides discussed issues of normalizing relations between the countries, signing a peace treaty, and delimiting borders. Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani tied the knot in Goa on Wednesday in presence of their families and close friends from the film industry. The duo looked stunning in their first official photos as newlyweds. Sharing the pictures on her Instagram handle, Rakuul wrote, Mine now and forever as she also dropped a red-heart emoji. For more info: Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani Are Married Now; First Photos of Newlyweds Out The makers of Bhool Bhulaiyaa are putting together an exciting cast for the third instalment of the horror-comedy franchise. After Vidya Balans return as Manjulika, a new teaser has been dropped. Kartik Aaryan shared a puzzle piece photo, hinting at an actress who is all set to join the cast and asked fans to guess. Fans quickly guessed it was Triptii Dimri, who gained popularity especially after starring alongside Ranbir Kapoor in Sandeep Reddy Vangas Animal. And indeed, it is true. For more info: Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3: Triptii Dimri Replaces Kiara Advani, Kartik Aaryan Teases New Actress in Film Actor Vikrant Massey, who has been basking in the success of his last release 12th Fail, has opened up about his religiously diverse family. Vikrant spoke about how his parents supported his brothers decision to convert to Islam when has was just 17. For more info: Vikrant Massey Reveals His Brother Moeen Converted to Islam at 17: Ive Seen Lot of Arguments It is a sad day for radio listeners as Ameen Sayani has passed away. The radio jockey, best known to host Geetmala on All India Radio (AIR), died on Tuesday night, February 20. Ameen Sayani was 91. The news of his death was confirmed by his son, Rajil Sayani. Speaking with The Indian Express, Rajil said he suffered a heart attack on Tuesday night after which he was rushed to the HN Reliance Hospital, Mumbai. For more info: Ameen Sayani, Iconic Voice of Geetmala on All India Radio, Dies at 91; Son Confirms It is no secret that Kapil Sharma and Sunil Grover are all set to reunite for an upcoming show, marking an end to their six-year-long fight. In a recent interview, Sunil Grover opened up about the same when he was also asked if all is well between him and Kapil now. I think so, Sunil told Indian Express and then added, We will soon announce more details on the show and talk about it. For more info: Sunil Grover Admits Fight With Kapil Sharma Disturbed Him, Says I Know The Truth Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani are set to tie the knot today in Goa. According to the reports, their wedding will take place at ITC Grand South Goa in the afternoon, surrounded by friends and family. The couple plans to share pictures from the ceremony soon. While fans eagerly await glimpses of their nuptials, snippets from their pre-wedding festivities have already captivated audiences online. Notable figures from the industry are attending the event and providing fans with glimpses into the glamorous affair. The mehendi ceremony was a visual spectacle. Bhumi Pednekar and her sister Samiksha Pednekar, among the A-list guests, dazzled in co-ord ethnic attire and stole the spotlight. Samiksha Pednekar took to her Instagram handle to showcase her intricate mehendi design as pre-wedding celebrations began. In another snap, she was accompanied by her sister Bhumi Pednekar, as they made their way to the venue. Samiksha exuded elegance in a pistachio green ensemble, featuring an embroidered halter neck blouse paired with monochrome bottoms. With her hair left loose and flawless makeup, she looked nothing short of dreamy. On the other hand, Bhumi Pednekar dazzled in orange co-ords, accentuated with dangling earrings. Together, the sisters added a touch of glamour to the festivities. Watch here: Meanwhile, a source known to India Today informed, Rakul Preet Singhs Chuddha ceremony is scheduled for the morning. Then the couple will take the saath pheras after 3.30 pm at the ITC Grand South Goa. Rakul and Jackky will have two wedding ceremonies: Anand Karaj and a Sindhi-style ceremony, reflecting both their cultures. The choice of an early evening wedding reflects the couples desire for a bright and cheerful start to their marital journey. Bollywood celebrities including Ananya Panday, Aditya Roy Kapur, Shilpa Shetty, Varun Dhawan, Tiger Shroff, and Shahid Kapoor were seen jetting off to Goa to attend the wedding festivities. Rakul and Jackky have been in a relationship for several years. From their initial meetings to the deep bond they share today, their journey together has been truly inspiring for their fans. Celebrities frequently become targets of impersonation on social media. However, there are instances when the situation escalates, needing celebrities to seek assistance from law enforcement and legal authorities to address the issue. The latest victim is actress Vidya Balan. She has lodged a complaint with the Khar police, taking legal action against an unidentified individual who created fake email, Instagram and WhatsApp accounts in her name. The perpetrator used these accounts to allegedly ask money from people in Bollywood by falsely promising work opportunities. The actress found out about the impersonation when a designer she had worked with got a WhatsApp message from an unknown number in January. The imposter, pretending to be Vidya Balan, expressed interest in working together and suggested discussing it further if the designer was interested. The designer immediately contacted the actress to alert her that someone claiming to be her had texted him. Balan was informed about similar activities being done over e-mail as well as on Instagram by other industry contacts, said an official from Khar police, as quoted by HT. The police have taken action against the unknown imposter based on the complaint, citing relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. They are now investigating further. On the work front, Vidya Balan will return as Manjulika in the hit franchise Bhool Bhulaiya. Last week, Kartik Aaryan confirmed the news by sharing a montage of scenes from Ami Je Tomar dance that was performed by him in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 as well as Vdiya Balans performance from Bhool Bhulaiyaa. The much-anticipated third installment of the hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise is all set to go on floors soon. Headlined by Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani with a spectacular performance by Tabu, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 released in 2022 and grossed over 180 crore in India. The film also starred Rajpal Yadav. Vikrant Massey apologised for an old tweet he shared featuring a cartoon of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. The actor, who is currently enjoying the success of his film 12t Fail, had shared the tweet in April 2018. The tweet featured an editorial cartoon in which Sita shown making a comment on Ram Bakhts. The post resurfaced recently and Vikrant was slammed for sharing it. Following the backlash, Vikrant deleted the post and apologised to the Hindu community. In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release (realise) the distasteful nature of it. The same could have been said without adding the cartoon which was published in a newspaper, he said. Id with utmost humility like to apologise to each and everyone who has been hurt As you all by now know, that I hold all faiths, beliefs and religions with the highest possible regard. We all grow up with time and reflect upon our mistakes. This was mine. Regards, Vikrant added. In context to one of my Tweets way back in 2018, Id like to say a few words: It was never my intention to hurt, malign or disrespect the Hindu community. But as I reflect in hindsight about a Tweet made in jest, I also release the distasteful nature of it. The same could Vikrant Massey (@VikrantMassey) February 20, 2024 Back in 2018, Vikrant had shared the Lord Ram-Sita political cartoon in connection with the rape cases that were making headlines at the time. Im so glad I was kidnapped by Ravan and not by your bhakts! Goddess Sita was seen telling Lord Ram in cartoon while she held a newspaper in her hand. Half baked potatoes and half baked nationalists will only cause a pain in the gut. #KathuaCasr #Unnao #Shame, he wrote in the now-deleted post. Recently, Vikrant made the headlines when he revealed his brother converted into a Muslim at the age of 17. He added that his mother is a Sikhni and his father is a Church-going Christian. Speaking on a podcast, Vikrant said, From a young age, I have seen a lot of arguments related to religion and spirituality. After seeing this, I went on my own quest, wondering what exactly is religion. It is man-made. Actor Vikrant Massey, who has been basking in the success of his last release 12th Fail, has opened up about his religiously diverse family. Vikrant spoke about how his parents supported his brothers decision to convert to Islam when has was just 17. Vikrant said that his father Jolly Massey is a church-going Christian and his mother Meena Massey is Sikhni. My brothers name is Moeen, I am called Vikrant. Youd wonder why the name Moeen? He converted to Islam, my family let him change his religion. They said, Beta (Son), if you find satisfaction in this, then go ahead. He converted at the age of 17, it is a big step. My mother is Sikhni, my father is church-going Christian, he goes to church twice a week. From a young age, I have seen a lot of arguments related to religion and spirituality, Vikrant said in an interview with Unfiltered by Samdish. Vikrant then recalled how his relatives questioned his father about his brothers decision. My father was questioned by my extended relatives about how he could allow that (brothers conversion). He said that was none of their business. He is my son, he is only answerable to me and has all the rights to choose what he wants. After seeing this, I went on my own quest, wondering what exactly is religion. It is man-made. Vikrant is the son of Jolly Massey and Meena Massey. He tied the knot with actress Sheetal Thakur in 2022. The duo welcomed their first child together recently. They became parents to a baby boy on February 7. The duo made the announcement along with a picture of a lovely letter. The note on the image read, 07.02.2024. For we have become one. We are bursting with joy and love to announce the arrival of our son. Love Sheetal and Vikrant. Pakistans long-delayed polls have yielded a hung parliament. The results at both national and provincial levels expectedly echo the deep-seated fissures along ethnic lines within the nation. This demonstrates the continued artificiality of Pakistans existence, which emerged from the British-orchestrated partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, marking the conclusion of their colonial hegemony in the region. The electoral landscape, both nationally and provincially, underscores the persistent divisions that stem from this historical legacy. In Sindh, the electoral victory overwhelmingly favours the province-based Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of the Bhutto-Zardari family. PPPs landslide victory not only signifies the rejection of its rival mainstream political entities like the Punjab-based Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) but also serves as a potent and unequivocal expression of Sindhi nationalism and the yearning for Sindhudesh (self-determination). Attempting to interpret this mandate through any other lens would grossly undermine the genuine aspirations of the Sindhi populace and disrespect their democratic choice. This vote and mandate for Sindhi nationalism is not an isolated incident but rather a continuation of a historical trend. Sindhi people have historically demonstrated determination in prioritising support for the province-based parties to deny space to any extra-regional party trying to make inroads in the political landscape of the region. This refocuses the conversation back to Sindhi nationalism and its longstanding popular aspiration of a separate Sindhudesh with provincial autonomy as a short-term means to achieve that objective. Top of FormIt is reiterated that the Sindhi nationalistic struggle predates the inception of the State of Pakistan in 1947 and is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural fabric of the region. While the circumstances of the day and Machiavellian political machinations of a few may have linked its fate to Pakistan, the dissonance with the idea of this newly created Muslim State, emerged within the first decade. More so, the language-based oppression, through which Pakistans political masters imposed the Urdu language across the country, along with its systematic demographic alteration designs to obliterate the Sindhi character of the province, only fueled popular suspicions of an impending danger to their culture and identity. To the consternating chagrin of ethnically distinct regions such as Sindh, Balochistan, Bengal and Pashtun lands, the consolidation of power within the newly established state by a coalition of Muhajirs (migrants) and Punjabis was a dangerous mix. It not only posed an existential threat to the culturally distinctive lands but also facilitated the exploitation of their rich resources. Interestingly, the concerns regarding land grabbing by Punjabis also predate Pakistans creation. The subsequent consolidation of power within this community, which was one of the largest population groups along with Bengalis in Pakistan, only served to validate these fears. For instance, Sayed Noor Muhammad Shah, a Muslim League legislator in a March 13, 1947 address in the Sindh Assembly rued that Punjabi Muslims never lose an opportunity to grab land even if that meant demolishing houses, mosques and even graves. They have such land-grabbing instincts that in their vicinity, the Sindhi Musalmans cannot find even an inch of land for burying their dead, Shah had lamented. The concerns and fears of Sindhi people, such as those voiced by Shah, were soon realised when the Pakistani state lost no time in attempting to change the character and cultural milieu of Sindh province by bringing a large number of migrants to settle across Sindh. This was most prominent in Karachi, then Pakistans federal capital, which was transformed into a dominant Urdu-speaking city within no time. In response to these existential challenges, the movement for Sindhi nationalism gained momentum in the 1960s, propelled by the literary activism of influential figures such as Ghulam Murtaza Syed, known as GM Syed, who reinvigorated the nationalist aspirations of the Sindhi people. In his seminal blueprint for Sindhudesh, A Nation in Chains, Syed exposed how the government of Liaquat Ali Khan initiated a demographic alteration program to render Sindh a Sindhi minority region by orchestrating orgies of brute mass violence against the life, property and honour of the Hindu nationals of Sindh to pave way for a mass immigration of Muhajir migrants in the province. More so, Pakistans experiment with the One-Unit political system, proclaimed in 1955 meant that the regional identities were subsumed effectively. It unleashed a dark epoch on the land, which revered its distinctive linguistic and cultural traditions along with syncretic religious orientation, and placed it at the disposal of the dominant Punjabi elite and their Muhajir collaborators. This had prompted GM Syed to argue that the One-Unit facade to centralise and control Pakistans power dynamics violated Sindhs right of self-determination as it ended its separate national identity. As the Pakistani state inflicted mass violence across the country, particularly in Bangla-dominated East Pakistan, resulting in its secession and emergence as Bangladesh in 1971, it reinvigorated all the ethnic nationalists in the country from Balochistan to Pashtun tribal regions to Sindh. As such, GM Syed decidedly gave the call for the establishment of Sindhudesh in 1972, paving the way for a formal political struggle towards achieving this objective. These political quests invited the lethal wrath of the wounded Pakistani security establishment, which had freshly tasted a humiliating defeat in Dhaka, turning the towns and villages of the province red. It is pertinent to mention that the cause of Sindhi nationalism survived the states wrath but flourished in the 1970s and 80s even as Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, himself a Sindhi, ruled Pakistan for much of the 1970s decade and led the charge against the Sindhi nationalists. Yet when the same Bhutto was executed by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1979, the Sindhi nationalists protested this gruesome political murder. Even as the Bhutto family-led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) became a party to the Punjabi dominated Army inflicted oppression, even the funeral of assassinated former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007 resonated with the slogans of Pakistan nakhabey (we dont want Pakistan), with protestors and provincial political leaders insisting, in unison, that the former prime minister was killed because of her Sindhi origins. Moreover, the Sindhi people have consistently employed strategic voting tactics to prevent major political parties, particularly those rooted in Punjab, from gaining significant traction in the region, even if that meant handing over the electoral governance of the province to PPP, despite ideological reservations. This trend persisted in the recently concluded election of 2024 as well, where the PPP secured a resounding victory both at the provincial and as well as winning near total seats of the National Assembly in the province. Therefore, it is imperative for the PPP leadership, particularly the Bhutto-Zardari family, to recognise that the overwhelming support from Sindhis does not necessarily equate to an endorsement of their national political agenda. Rather, it signifies a deliberate stance by the electorate to thwart the influence of external powers and safeguard the integrity of their province. The electorates decision to rally behind the PPP serves as a political statement to assert and preserve the distinct identity and interests of Sindh in the face of perceived encroachment. The broader world need not conflate the mandate in any other way and instead support the legitimate struggle of the people of Sindh in realising their longstanding aspiration of Sindhudesh. The writer is an author and columnist and has written several books. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. Those that seek recourse in whataboutery are deeply convinced that two wrongs always make a right. If you accuse practitioners of whataboutism of a travesty, they will invariably respond by accusing their accuser of having committed the exact wrong earlier, as if this will level the moral playing field. And so, it has been for the Trinamool Congress (TMC). As horrifying tales of alleged excesses committed by TMC cadre against women crept out of Sandeshkhalis pit of perversions, the party slammed its critics in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It fired a series of whatabouts What about Hathras? What about Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh? What about Kuldeep Singh Sengar? And so on. Unfortunately for the TMC, it forgot that whataboutery almost always leads, as someone has said, into turning sensible conversations into disastrous arguments. No doubt, in an academic setting, it is sensible to highlight the prevalence of a problem that is the directly proportional relationship between power and predatory behaviour. But in the real world, when questions are asked about a governments response to an alleged heinous crime, resorting to whataboutery comes across as deeply immoral. And that, too, when a division bench of the Calcutta High Court led by the Chief Justice himself has made piercing observations questioning the commitment of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees government to upholding the tenets of constitutional democracy. The High Court wants the Banerjee government to immediately arrest her partys strongman Shahjahan Sheikh, who has been on the run for six weeks. In fact, the milords suspect the TMC of shielding the alleged violator. Hopefully, the alleged thug in question, Sheikh, will save the TMC its blushes by surrendering of his own volition. As of now, there seem to be no signs of this. Sheikh, perhaps, knows too much. It is best he is never found. Many believe Sheikh to be the symptom of a deeper malaise the ground that the TMC has allegedly ceded to the crime syndicate that is running riot looting land and heaping indignities on the unsuspecting. But now with the High Court stepping in, the BJPs campaign in Sandeshkhali has acquired the credibility the TMC claimed it lacked. At least in the publics perception, it wont be anymore easy for the TMC to get away by suggesting that the horrors of Sandeshkhali were scripted by the BJP-RSS. A stunt, the TMC claims was timed just before the general election to gain an undeserved advantage. In a sense, for the TMC, its a harking back to 2006-2007. At that time, Banerjee was the underdog as she confronted the seemingly unshakeable Left on the blood-stained fields of Singur. Banerjees campaign against the Lefts land-grab that fomented appalling excesses resonated with the masses, especially women. Then, the Lefts attempt at brushing away Banerjees protest as shrill histrionics came across as smug patriarchy. The Lefts callousness won Banerjee the support of women voters who catapulted her into the Chief Ministers seat very soon after. Since then, women voters are the one constant difference between Banerjee and her nearest rival, the BJP, at the ballot box. Today, with the TMC having been caught out paying scant regard to women welfare, Banerjee might just be put on test by her greatest support system the women of Bengal. The only way Banerjee can live up to the faith placed in her by women is by acting as also seen to be acting against her own party cadre. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. After days of deliberations, the Samajwadi Party and Congress on Wednesday announced to unitedly contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls under the banner of the I.N.D.I.A. bloc in Uttar Pradesh. This is the first such deal announced by the opposition alliance for any state in the run-up to the general elections. As part of the agreement, Congress will contest 17 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, which sends the maximum number of lawmakers from any state to the Lower House of Parliament. Uttar Pradesh SP President Naresh Uttam Patel and UP Congress Chief Ajay Rai addressed a joint press conference to announce the deal. Congress Uttar Pradesh in-charge Avinash Pande, who was also present there, said that other I.N.D.I.A. bloc parties including the SP will field candidates on the remaining 63 seats. I am delighted to tell you that it has been decided that in Uttar Pradesh the INC will contest 17 seats and the remaining 63 seats will have candidates of INDIA Alliance from SP and other parties, Pande said. Congress will field its candidates in Rai Bareily, Amethi, Kanpur Nagar, Fatehpur Sikri, Bansgaon, Saharanpur, Prayagraj, Maharajganj, Varanasi, Amroha, Jhanshi, Bulandshahar, Ghaziabad, Mathura, Sitapur, Barabanki and Deoria. Rai Bareli and Amethi used to be Congress strongholds for decades. However, the party lost the Amethi seat to the BJP in the 2019 elections and Sonia Gandhi, who represented Rai Bareli four times in Lok Sabha, will not be seeking re-election from the constituency after she was elected to Rajya Sabha recently. In Varanasi, the Congress candidate is likely to face Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who registered two landslide victories from the seat in two back-to-back elections. The UP Congress chief said the INDIA alliance will register victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and will defeat NDA. Our (Congress-Samajwadi Party) strategy is to stand firmly with each other. Samajwadi Party will contest elections on 63 seats while Congress will contest on 17 seats in Uttar Pradesh, he added. Besides Uttar Pradesh, Naresh Uttam Patel said the Samajwadi Party will contest one seat, Khajuraho, in Madhya Pradesh and support Congress on the rest. Earlier today, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav confirmed his partys alliance with the INDIA bloc. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that there are no issues with the alliance. We will partner with Congress, there are no issues in the alliance, Yadav told reporters, adding, Ant bhala toh sab bhala (Alls well if the ends well). Exuding confidence, the SP chief said that the Bharatiya Janata Party will be defeated. He added that his party will contest maximum seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. CANDIDATES LIST OF SP-CONGRESS ALLIANCE Meanwhile, sources in the Congress have said that the final list of candidates of the SP-Congress alliance might be released today. Samajwadi Party is likely to take back its candidate for the Varanasi seat and will give the seat to Congress. Earlier SP had announced its candidate for the seat even though UP Congress President Ajay Rai used to contest from there. Hathras, on the other hand, will be given to the Akhilesh Yadav-led party in exchange for Sitapur. Additionally, SP might get one seat from Bulandshahr or Mathura and Congress might get the Shravasti seat. The grand old party has said that SP should consider the seat-sharing proposal on the basis of caste equation on ground and the previous vote shares of both the parties. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS Akhilesh Yadavs confirmation comes a day after his party released its third list of five candidates for the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. The party fielded senior leader Shivpal Yadav from Budaun parliamentary constituency. Party president Akhilesh Yadavs uncle, Shivpal Yadav, is an MLA from the Jaswantnagar assembly constituency in Etawah district. On the same day, former national general secretary of the party Swami Prasad Maurya quit the party and resigned from the post of MLC. I got an opportunity to work with you. But after our talks on February 12 and my resignation (as national general secretary) on February 13, no initiative of any talks with me was taken due to which I am resigning from the primary membership of the party, Maurya said in his resignation letter to party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Meanwhile, during seat sharing talks with the Congress, SP offered 17 Lok Sabha seats in UP to the grand-old party. We have given a final offer of 17 Lok Sabha seats to the Congress. Akhilesh Yadavs participation in the Nyay Yatra in Raebareli on Tuesday will depend on their acceptance, Rajendra Chaudhary, the Samajwadi Partys chief spokesperson said. Earlier on Monday, Akhilesh Yadav had said that his party will not join Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in the state unless seat-sharing between the two parties is finalised. Right now talks are going on, lists have come from them, we have also given them the list. The moment, seat distribution is done, Samajwadi Party will join their Nyaya Yatra, partys chief spokesperson said. Soon after two Congress MLAs extended their support to the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government, a new term is creating a buzz in state politics SASHI Model, in reference to the rebellion of Sashikanta Das two years ago. This is being seen as a process of extending support to the ruling party without resigning from the Congress. Sashikanta Das, who is the Raha MLA, was the first to make such a move. Following this, on February 15, two Congress MLAs one of whom was holding the post of executive president of the state unit extended support to the BJP government in a surprising move. They met Sarma and expressed their willingness to join hands with the state government. But, what exactly is the SASHI Model? It can be said that Raha MLA Sashikanta Das was the first rebel in the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee, and was also suspended for repeatedly failing to maintain party discipline. Following in his footsteps, two years later, Kamalakya Dey Purkayastha and Basanta Das have also extended their support to the BJP government. There are also reports that more Congress MLAs are in touch with the chief minister, including the Boko MLA who is willing to join the NDA constituent Asom Gana Parishad. Dudhnoi MLA Yadav Swargiary, South Abhayapuri MLA Pradip Sarkar, Chaygaon MLA Rekibuddin Ahmed and Batadrava MLA Shivamoni Bora are others who may follow the SASHI Model. While the MLAs blamed the party leadership and its poor decision-making process for their rebellion, the state Congress blamed Sarma for the crisis. The grand old party has alleged that the CM had threatened the MLAs with legal action in corruption cases. Replying to this, however, Sarma said: I was closely involved with the Congress for 22 years; so, definitely the Congressmen are closer to me than Rahul Gandhi. Most of the Congress leaders in Assam are in regular touch with me. They are good friends of mine. I can say almost all of them wished to join the BJP, but it is a bit difficult for us. Every year, we are trying to accommodate them. He said there is no guarantee how long any Congress leader can be in that party. Those who are most vocal against us on television (political talk shows), or in front of the media are also willing to join the BJP, he said, referring to Purkayastha. Kamalakhya was our worst critic. He attacked us strongly, but today he is with us. God knows what is going on in the mind of APCC president Bhupen Bora or opposition leader Debabrat Saikia, he added. Congress forms quick response team Now, the state Congress has announced the formation of a quick response team to sack outgoing party leaders. An eight-member QRT (quick response team) has been formed, which consists of Bharat Chandra Narah, Pranati Fukan, Shivamani Bora, Navajyoti Talukdar, Deep Bayon, Mira Barthakur, Gopal Sharma and Abdul Aziz. They will consider the issues or reasons why a group of leaders are leaving the Congress, Bhupen Bora recently said. Reacting to this revolt in the state, the state Congress chief said: Stern action will be taken against those who violate party norms. Not only BJP and Asom Gana Parishad, Congress leaders are also looking at other regional parties to join. Senior Congress leader Karimuddin Majumdar is reportedly ready to join the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF). He apparently met the party chief and got confirmation about his joining. Senior politician Sharad Pawar has claimed fundamental rights are under attack in the country and the government is not bothered about progressive ideology. A united stand should be taken against regressive powers, he said addressing a function on Tuesday after unveiling the memorial of slain Leftist leader Govind Pansare in Maharashtras Kolhapur city. Today, power is being misused, free voice suppressed, restrictions are brought on free writing, and news channels are being blocked. This means those in power are not bothered about the attacks on fundamental rights, Pawar alleged. While regressive powers are rising in the country, rulers are not at all bothered about the progressive ideology, the NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar chief said. He claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to the Rajya Sabha for only 20 minutes when the issues of common people are discussed and policy decisions taken during Parliament sessions. At the start of the session, (Prime Minister) bows down at the door of Parliament. This is theatrics, the former Union minister claimed. He listed incidents like the arrest of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, the attack on organisers of Nirbhay Bano event in Pune, and harassment of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to allege growing intolerance. Senior journalist Nikhil Wagles car was recently attacked when he was headed for the Nirbhay Bano event in Pune. In Jharkhand, fake cases were foisted against a tribal chief minister and he was arrested. Arvind Kejriwal is being harassed by putting his ministers in jail, said Pawar. He alleged that central agencies like the ED are being misused and different yardsticks are being applied for the people who take a different stand and those who are genuinely corrupt. The fight is not restricted to elections but a vow should be taken to support those people who have been oppressed, and for that, all the like-minded progressive powers need to come together, Pawar said. He said fighting regressive tendencies would be the real tribute to Pansare. CPI leader Govind Pansare was fired upon on February 16, 2015, in Kolhapur by some unidentified men. He succumbed to his injuries four days later. Pawar also recalled the murders of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar and Kannada scholar MM Kalburgi. The attackers think that they will destroy progressive powers. But the ideological fight needs to be fought with ideology. However, the tendencies without any ideology take law in their hands and commit such acts, he said. CPI leader D Raja recalled his association with the late Pansare. Currently, the primary responsibility of all the people is to save India. People should vote against the communal forces and defeat the BJP, he said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Water samples have been collected from the Okchuchay River four times, Deputy head of the National Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Akbar Asgarov said during the conference "Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region", Trend reports. "Pollution with a large amount of heavy metals was recorded in the taken samples. The Okchuchay River is polluted by the enterprises operating in Armenia. In the pre-occupation period, 17 hydrological and 9 meteorological stations operated in the territory. Visiting these territories after liberation from occupation, we saw that all the stations and points were destroyed and destroyed," Asgarov added. The Okchuchay river that goes through Armenias land joins the Araz river. The copper-molybdenum factory and gold mine in Armenia put their waste into these rivers. So the land and water in the area are very dirty and unsafe. The Araz river is a river that crosses many countries, so it is also hurting the environment in Azerbaijan. The pollution of the Araz river by Armenia has been a long-standing issue that has attracted international attention and intervention. The European Union, which is a signatory to the Espoo Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context, sent an observer mission to monitor the situation in Arazdayan, where a large metallurgical plant was being built by Armenia and the US near the border with Azerbaijan. The plant was expected to produce 180,000 tons of copper and molybdenum products per year, but it also posed a serious threat to the environment and health of millions of people in the region. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Hailing the Supreme Courts verdict on the Chandigarh mayoral poll, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said it seemed that Lord Krishna was present in the court and speaking through the Chief Justice. Invoking the Bhagavad Gita in the Delhi Assembly, Kejriwal also slammed the BJP. It was a different atmosphere in the Supreme Court yesterday (Tuesday), it felt like Lord Shri Krishna was right there, speaking through the medium of the Chief Justice of India, the chief minister said. On Tuesday, a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud overturned the result of the Chandigarh mayoral poll in which the BJP candidate had emerged an unlikely winner, and declared the AAP-Congress alliance nominee Kuldeep Kumar as the new mayor. Kejriwal said god decided to intervene and put an end to the prevailing adharm (unrighteousness) of the BJP. Hitting back, the BJP said Kejriwals occasional references to Lord Ram and Wednesdays mention of Lord Krishna indicates his fear of jail in connection with the excise policy case. It is extremely surprising to witness Arvind Kejriwal mentioning verses from the Bhagavad Gita today. I hope that the chief minister will also read those verses of Bhagavad Gita where Lord Krishna explains that humans have to face the consequences of their actions, the BJPs Delhi unit chief Virendra Sachdeva said. Alleging rigging in the Chandigarh mayoral poll, Kejriwal claimed in the assembly that the same thing happened in Pakistan. Even in Pakistan, the spirit of the Election Commissioner of Rawalpindi was awakened who came and said that he defeated those who were winning with a huge majority and declared winners those who were losing, Kejriwal said and added, in a dig at the BJP, These people turned our country into Pakistan. He said all the devotees of Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Shiv-Parvati are with the country and the adharm of the BJP will come to an end and dharm (righteousness) will prevail. During a hearing on Monday, the Chief Justice had voiced displeasure over the way the mayoral poll in Chandigarh was held and told Returning Officer Anil Masih that he could be prosecuted. Masih allegedly put X marks on ballot papers that were captured on CCTV camera. Speaking in the Assembly, Kejriwal asserted that it was Lord Krishna who didnt let the cameras be turned off to bring out the real face of the BJP in front of everyone. He claimed that the Supreme Courts verdict on the Chandigarh mayoral poll is a strong message to increasing dictatorship in the country. Kejriwal also hit out at the BJP over the ongoing farmers protest and said it is not allowing the agitating farmers to enter Delhi. Why dont they allow the farmers to come to Delhi? They do not pay the price for their crops and also do not listen to them, he said. At a time when Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra reached his former constituency, Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, Union Environment Minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Bhupender Yadav is set to visit Gandhis present constituency Wayanad in Kerala and camp there for two days. ALSO READ | Amethi-nk for Rahul Gandhi? Congress, Constituency & Cadre May Not Be Ready For it On Tuesday, Yadav held a meeting at his ministry to review the recent incidents of man-animal conflict at Pulpally in Wayanad district of Kerala, saying he would personally visit Wayanad to find solutions. The trigger seems to be public protests that have erupted in Pulpally, after a 52-year-old ecotourism guide was killed in an elephant attack, the second human fatality in such an attack in the district within a week. But theres more to it than meets the eye. TIMING IS KEY Man-animal conflict is not new in Wayanad. At least 44 people has been killed and hundreds injured in wild animal attacks in Wayanad since 2014. Yadav has been heading the ministry since July 2021. Like the current protest, there have been numerous protests in the past. But the fact that he chose precisely this time to not only convene an urgent meeting, go to Wayanad and camp there for two days seems more than coincidental at a time when Wayanad MP Gandhi is making overtures in Amethi. With a fleet of around 50 cars, Gandhi arrived in Amethi, where he lost by 55,000 votes to BJPs Smriti Irani. Traversing across Kakwa Road, Sagra Tiraha, Raipur Phulawari, Gauriganj and Babuganj, Gandhi has been desperately trying to make a connection with the people of Amethi. I have come to Amethi and you have welcomed me with love. Our relationship is long-standing, one of love. I thank you all from my heart, he said. Yadav, who was till not so long ago a powerful BJP General Secretary, continues to be a National Executive Member and the select Central Election Committee (CEC) of the party. He was in-charge of the BJPs recently concluded Madhya Pradesh election and Gujarat election in 2022. Will this dent Gandhis fortune should Congress renominate him from Wayanad? Well, things arent looking so bright for Gandhi in Wayanad. You cant be a tourist and expect to win, BJP leader Tom Vadakkan, who has worked closely with Gandhi while in the Congress, told News18, Mr Yadav is duty-bound to listen to the people of Wayanad and he is doing so. But so is Mr Gandhi. But where is he? A BJP source told News18, With such a senior BJP leader camping in Wayanad, it is bound to unsettle Gandhi who isnt getting great crowds in Uttar Pradesh anyway. The source added, Dont be surprised if the yatra is preponed further. The yatra that was to culminate on March 20 will now end around March 10, giving Gandhi and the Congress machinery more time for the Lok Sabha campaign. Presided over a meeting of senior @MOEFCC officials in Delhi today to review the recent incidents of man-animal conflict at Pulpally in Wayanad district of Kerala.We remain committed to do everything it takes to protect human lives and maintain ecological balance. Will pic.twitter.com/TAGYrTfRCj Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) February 20, 2024 THE MAN-ANIMAL CONFLICT Public protests have erupted in Wayanad after a radio-collared wild elephant strayed into the residential area in Pulpally town on February 10 and trampled over a 47-year-old farmer. We remain committed to do everything it takes to protect human lives and maintain ecological balance. We will visit Wayanad on Wednesday to review the situation and find solutions, he tweeted. Human-elephant conflict has been a major conservation issue in all forest divisions of Kerala, especially in the northern, and mitigation measures have been just partially effective. Wayanad alone has lost about 44 people in such human-animal conflicts in the past 10 years. Of late, the issue has become graver with increasing cases of such conflict due to habitat loss and fragmentation, say officials. The environment ministry had earlier also issued detailed advisory followed by guidelines to all states and UTs to deal with human-wildlife conflict situations. It included setting up rapid response teams, as well as provision of adequate funds for a suitable portion of ex-gratia relief to be paid within 24 hours to the affected persons in case of death and injury to persons. While the states/union territories pay compensation as per their norms, the environment ministry also releases funds under its Centrally Sponsored Schemes to curb human-wildlife conflict. It had recently increased the ex-gratia payment in case of human-widlife conflict to Rs 10 lakh. As per the government data, around Rs 921 crore was released to Kerala in the current financial year under the scheme. Is the Samajwadi Party repeating the mistake of the 2017 assembly polls by allotting nearly a fourth of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh to the Congress? Out of the 17 seats given by the SP now, the Congress lost deposits in 12 in 2019 and did not even contest on one of these constituencies, which it sought this time. The allies announced the seat-sharing arrangement for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Lucknow on Wednesday, saying the SP will contest 62 seats, the Congress 17 and Chandrashekhar Azads party on one. But the Congress did not even fight on one of these seats, Bansgaon, in 2019. It lost deposits in 12 out of these 17 seats at that time, escaping that ignominy but still losing in Amethi, Kanpur Nagar, and Saharanpur, and only bagging Raebareli. Out of the 67 seats that the Congress contested in UP in 2019, it lost its deposits in 63. The Congress netted just 1% of the votes in Amroha, a seat that it will fight now under the arrangement with the SP. Danish Ali won the seat for the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), polling nearly 6 lakh votes, while the Congress candidate got just about 12,000. The buzz is that Ali may contest from Amroha on a Congress ticket this time after the BSP suspended him. Among other seats the Congress is contesting this time, it had netted merely 3.5% votes in Prayagraj in 2019, 2.62% in Bulandshahar, 2.5% in Mathura, 5.5% in Maharajganj, 5% in Deoria, and just 7% in Ghaziabad. The last time these two parties were in an alliance in the state elections in 2017, the SP had allotted over 100 out of the 403 seats in the state to the Congress, which had only managed to win seven. In the 2022 state polls, the Congress further sunk to two assembly seats, polling just 6.36% votes. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the general secretary incharge of UP during the 2019 and 2022 elections has been replaced by Avinash Pande. The seat-sharing talks hit turbulence before a patch-up on Wednesday. OnePlus is taking a different route with its lineup at the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC 2024) in Barcelona later this month. While most brands will be showcasing their new smartphones at the event, OnePlus has decided to try its luck with a new smartwatch this year. OnePlus Watch 2 will be the talk of OnePlus agenda at the event on February 26, as confirmed by the company this week. The OnePlus Watch came out a few years back, and the overall feedback of the product was bad, which is likely to have forced the company to pause its efforts in this segment. OnePlus Watch 2 is tipped to be a premium version, with its stainless steel chassis and a sapphire crystal watch face among others. The biggest reason why the Watch gen 1 didnt work is because the wearable did not support third-party apps, ineffective with its health features and no basic smartwatch features. It felt like a half-baked product without any direction and plan to improve with future updates. Having these chinks surely played a big role in OnePlus revising its product plans and now it seems ready to correct those mistakes and offer a compelling product in the market. Were not sure if OnePlus wants to continue offering its own OS or switch to a more reliable WearOS platform this year that has support for thousands of Android apps. OnePlus is one of the many brands that have made a pitch for a product ecosystem and having a smartwatch is critical for those ambitions. The Android wearable market is still fairly limited, so OnePlus and brands like Xiaomi still have the space to fit in and appeal to buyers in different price brackets. Well hear more about the OnePlus Watch 2 from the company later this week and hopefully itll be good. In what appears to be a clear endorsement of the February 8 polls, China has congratulated Pakistan on its successful elections, even as controversy brews over alleged rigging. Speaking at a regular press conference on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning commended Pakistans handling of the polls. As a close and friendly neighbour, China fully respects the choice of the Pakistani people and sincerely hopes that relevant parties of Pakistan will work together to uphold political solidarity and social stability after the elections and jointly open up a brighter future for the development of the country, Ning said in response to a question posed by China News Service on Pakistan elections. China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. China hopes to work with Pakistan to build on the traditional friendship, deepen practical cooperation in various areas, and accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries, the Chinese spokesperson added. Answering a question about the absence of a decisive mandate, Ning said, We noted that general elections in Pakistan are held in a generally steady and smooth manner and we fully respect the choice of the Pakistani people. We hope and believe that relevant parties of Pakistan will uphold solidarity, maintain stability and properly handle relevant issues to jointly open up a brighter future for the development of the country. The statement is viewed as support for Pakistans military establishment, countering US criticism of election integrity. Chinas statement is out of turn to calm down the controversy going on due to election rigging, said top Pakistan govt sources. They told CNN-News18 that this endorsement challenges voices like Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Imran Khan, indicating Chinas preference for stability over democratic processes. It also signals the approval of Army Chief Gen Asim Munirs leadership. While aimed at calming tensions in the debt-ridden country, Chinas intervention underlines its strategic interests in its all-weather partner. The move also highlights tensions between China and the US regarding democratic norms and regional influence, potentially impacting future diplomatic relations between the countries. European Union countries on Wednesday agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia to target individuals and businesses suspected of assisting Moscow in its war against Ukraine, including Chinese companies. The decision coincides with the second anniversary of Russias full-scale invasion, which began on Feb. 24, 2022, and comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Belgium, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, said the package is one of the broadest approved by the EU. According to several diplomats, EU ambassadors from all member countries agreed to impose sanctions on about 200 companies and individuals. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to disclose details about the sanctions, which have yet to be formally adopted. They said several Chinese companies, which are believed to have provided help to Russia, have been sanctioned. Details of the entities targeted will be revealed when the sanctions are published in the EUs legal journal. The EU has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia since President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine. The measures have targeted the energy sector, banks, the worlds biggest diamond mining company, businesses and markets, and made Russian officials subject to asset freezes and travel bans. The new sanctions will further enhance trade restrictions against entities linked to the Russian military-industrial complex, diplomats said. Additional bans on exports to Russia of highly technical components for drone production were adopted. I welcome the agreement on our 13th sanctions package against Russia, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. We must keep degrading Putins war machine. With 2,000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones. Belgium said the package will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved on Saturday, which marks the second anniversary of the war. WASHINGTON: Jill Biden on Wednesday announced $100 million in federal funding for research and development into womens health as part of a new White House initiative that she is heading up. The money is the first major deliverable of the White House Initiative on Womens Health Research, which was announced late last year. The money comes from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, or ARPA-H, which is under the federal Department of Health and Human Services. The first lady announced the ARPA-H Sprint for Womens Health during an appearance in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Biden has said women dont know enough about their health because the research historically has been underfunded and lacking. The White House initiative aims to change the approach to and increase funding for womens health research. The $100 million will be used to invest early in life-changing work being done by womens health researchers and startup companies that cannot get private support, Biden said. We will build a health care system that puts women and their lived experiences at its center, she said. Where no woman or girl has to hear that its all in your head, or, its just stress. Where women arent just an after-thought, but a first-thought. Where women dont just survive with chronic conditions, but lead long and healthy lives. President Joe Biden created the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health in 2022 to work on advancing solutions to health issues. The agency is part of what he called his unity agenda. In the coming weeks, the agency will solicit ideas for groundbreaking research and development to address womens health, according to the White House. The first lady said last year when the White House initiative was announced in November that it grew out of meeting she had had with Maria Shriver, a womens health advocate and former California first lady. Shriver, Biden said, spoke of the need for a public-private effort to close the gaps in womens health research. Shriver also participated in Wednesdays announcement in Massachusetts. The White House Initiative on Womens Health Research is led by Jill Biden and the White House Gender Policy Council. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Israel finance minister Bezalel Smotrich on Tuesday said securing the return of the hostages was not the most important thing for Israel and urged Israelis to worry about destroying Hamas. No. Its not the most important thing, Smotrich said during an interview with the Kan public broadcaster, when asked if he felt that bringing back the 134 captives who are being held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip since the October 7 attacks was the most important goal. He then attacked the families of those held for demanding that the hostages be brought back for any price. Why make it a competition? Why is it so important at the moment? We need to destroy Hamas. That is very important. At any price is a problem. We have to return the hostages and we have to put pressure on Hamas, Smotrich asked. After the interview was released the family members of the hostages were furious. Members of the hostage families holding a vigil outside the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv moved their protest to block several main roads. They urged the general public to join the protest of fury against the government and threatened to set the streets on fire. Mr. Smotrich, let them take your children and I will stand in the road and shout, Its not the most important thing, Eli Albag, whose 18-year-old daughter Liri is still being held by Hamas, was quoted as saying by the The Times of Israel. I say to the people of Israel, whoever thinks the hostages are not important, let them take your children hostage, then you can speak. Because we have been suffering for 137 days, every day, every minute. We dont sleep at night, he further added. A few weeks after the controversial February 8 election, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), reached a midnight consensus on Tuesday to form a new government after several rounds of intense negotiations. The PML-N won 75 seats while the PPP came third with 54 seats. The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has also agreed to support them with their 17 seats. PML-N, along with four other smaller parties, have a comfortable majority in the legislature of 264 seats. The coalition of the two biggest parties, reportedly with the backing of the Pakistan army, is being dubbed as PDM 2.0. In September 2020, the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) emerged as a coalition of political parties in Pakistan. It was founded as a movement against the military, which was supporting Imran Khans PTI at the time. @BBhuttoZardari pic.twitter.com/p5Z2BEB6ue PPP (@MediaCellPPP) February 20, 2024 Required Numbers At a late-night presser on Tuesday, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced that PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif is set to assume the role of the Prime Minister once again. PPP co-chairman Asif Zardari, 68, is said to become the countrys President again. The PPP and PML-N have achieved the required number, and [now] we are in a position to form the government, Bilawal told reporters. He said ex-PM Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf: party-backed candidates and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) failed to achieve a simple majority in Parliament to form a government in the Centre. The delay in forming a government in the nation of 241 million has caused concern as Pakistan is grappling with an economic crisis amid slow growth and record inflation, rising militant violence, and needs a stable administration with the authority to take tough decisions. Speaking at the presser, Shehbaz, 72, said they had asked the PTI to form its government in the Centre but the former ruling party failed to muster up the magic number of 169 required for the task. Shehaz, who was PM from 2022 to 2023, claimed that the PML-N, as well as its allied parties, were ready to sit on the opposition benches had the PTI decided to form its government. He asserted that his PML-N now has the required numbers with the PPP to be in a position to form the next government. The former PM stressed the unity between the two parties, noting that they were well-positioned to form the government at the Centre. Pakistans public mandate is with Imran Khan, not with the #__ ! pic.twitter.com/tYE7X1ozG9 PTI (@PTIofficial) February 20, 2024 Mandate Thieves This announcement comes as the cash-strapped country faced a hung Parliament after the February 8 elections. Independent candidates, a majority backed by 71-year-old Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf: party, won 93 National Assembly seats. Pakistan media reports said that many independents are said to be defecting to PML-N. In a post on X, 71-year-old Khans PTI hit out at the newly cemented PPP, PML-N alliance as PDM 2.0 PDM 2.0 = #MandateThieves. The announcement of the alliance came a day after the latest round of talks between the top leaders of the two parties ended inconclusively on Monday as both sides failed to reach a consensus on a power-sharing formula to form a coalition government. Shehbaz Sharif said that the journey ahead for the new government would not be easy but fraught with many difficulties and obstacles. He asserted that the coalition alliance will tackle them together, the Dawn newspaper reported. (With agency inputs) Swedens Security Service (Sapo) said Wednesday Russia posed a threat to its territorial security amid heightened interest in the Arctic as the Scandinavian country prepares to join NATO. Moscow also increasingly poses a threat of industrial espionage, as Sweden was seeing a rise in undercover agents from several countries, Sapo said as it presented its annual threat assessment report. Sweden dropped two centuries of military non-alignment and applied for NATO membership in the wake of Russias invasion of Ukraine. Stockholm expects Hungary, the last holdout, to ratify its membership on Monday. Sapo noted that Russia, along with China, was conducting security-threatening activities in northernmost Sweden, and Swedens and Finlands NATO membership would extend the alliances border in the Arctic regions. Russias interest in northern Sweden primarily concerns Swedish military capabilities, the intelligence service said. Sapo chief Charlotte von Essen told reporters Swedens security situation had deteriorated since Moscows invasion of Ukraine. Russias full-scale war against Ukraine continues, the situation in the Middle East is serious after Hamass attack against Israel on October 7 and in Sweden we have during the last year gone from an elevated to a high terror threat level, she told reporters. Sapo said activities threatening Swedens security were conducted on a broad front, and foreign powers act offensively. It singled out as an example the illicit acquisition of technology which could later be used in Russias military industry. China, Iran Also Threats In January 2023, a former Swedish intelligence officer was handed a life sentence for spying for Russia. And in September, a Russian-Swedish national went on trial accused of passing Western technology to Russias military. A Stockholm court found he had exported the material but ruled his actions did not amount to intelligence gathering. Sapos assessment came just two days after Swedens military intelligence service MUST also pointed to Russia as the primary threat against the Nordic country. Sapo also highlighted the threat of intelligence activities from China and Iran. China was seen as an economic threat, acquiring Swedish innovations, technological know-how and cutting-edge knowledge from industry and universities. Sapo also recalled that Sweden had in the past year gone from being a legitimate target to a more prioritised target for Islamist extremists, following a slew of protests involving desecrations of the Koran in the country. The perception of Sweden has ultimately become a question of our security, von Essen said. In October, two Swedish football fans were shot dead in Brussels by an Islamist gunman. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The water infrastructure of Azerbaijan was seriously damaged during the occupation by Armenia, Advisor of the State Water Resources Agency of Azerbaijan Chingiz Abdullayev said during the conference on "Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region", Trend reports. "For 30 years, 10 water reservoirs, and 1,200 kilometers of irrigation canals have been destroyed. Water reservoirs were polluted by Armenia, water resources were used as a tool of political pressure. For example, the Sarsang reservoir. Very little water was discharged from the reservoirs into Terterchay. Even though Azerbaijan repeatedly appealed to international organizations on these issues, the occupying state ignored it. Work is underway to restore water infrastructure in the territories liberated from occupation," he added. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Donald Trump on Tuesday said five Republicans and one Democrat are on his shortlist for potential running mates in the upcoming presidential elections. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, onetime Democratic presidential primary candidate Tulsi Gabbard, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, Florida House of Representatives member Byron Donalds and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy are on his shortlist, Trump told Fox News host Laura Ingraham on Tuesday during a town hall event. The audience members present there responded by saying these were good choices for the role. Are they all on your shortlist? Ingraham asked Trump. They are. Theyre all solid. And I always say I want people with common sense because theres so many things happening in this country that dont make sense, Trump said. (The) first quality (I am looking for is their ability to act as) a good president because if something should happen, you have to have somebody thats going to be a great president, he further added. He then said that it does not matter who the running mate contenders are but what matters is who is running for president. The one thing that always surprises me is that the VP choice has absolutely no impact. Its whoever the president is, it just seems, Trump said. You would like to get somebody that could help you from the voters standpoint, he further added. Trump did not share a time frame regarding when he would announce who would finally be his running mate. He teased in January that he has already decided on who his running mate would be. But, following Tuesdays town hall event it seemed that the former president was yet to make up his mind. Trump also highlighted earlier that the last remaining GOP primary opponent former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will not be on his ticket and added that he made the decision long time ago. A murder probe has been launched days after an Indian restaurant manager was killed in a collision while riding his bicycle in Berkshire, England. Vignesh Raman, 38, was struck down by a motorist on Addington Road on Valentines Day at around 11:50 pm. Police said that the cyclist was reportedly attacked by the driver who fled the scene. The cyclist, later identified as Raman, was pronounced dead at the Royal Berkshire Hospital. A report published in The Times of India said that Raman was an Indian citizen from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Following an investigation by Thames Valley Polices Major Crime Unit, a man has been charged with murder in Reading. Shazeb Khalid, aged 24, of no fixed abode was charged with one count of murder today (20/2), Thames Valley Police said in a statement. Khalid was later arrested on suspicion of murder on February 19. Police said the seven men arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have been released on bail. Khalid is scheduled to appear at Reading Magistrates Court on February 21. Earlier, Thames Valley Police had stressed the importance of eyewitness accounts and urged individuals with CCTV or dash-cam footage to assist in the probe. We have launched a murder investigation following this incident. Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the man who has died at this tragic time, a senior investigating officer earlier said. The United States once again vetoed a draft United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution on the Israel-Hamas war on Tuesday. It blocked a demand for a humanitarian ceasefire as it instead pushed the 15-member body to call for a temporary ceasefire linked to the release of hostages held by Hamas. As many as 13 members voted in favor of the Algerian-drafted text, while the UK abstained. It was the third US veto of a draft resolution since the start of the current fighting on Oct. 7. Washington has also used its veto to block an amendment to a draft resolution in December. #BREAKINGUS vetoes Algerian-led draft resolution that would have, inter alia, demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties IN FAVOR: 13AGAINST: 1 (US)ABSTAIN: 1 (UK) Live coveragehttps://t.co/fLIqiQv9A4 pic.twitter.com/5lqhlix7RV UN News (@UN_News_Centre) February 20, 2024 Palestinians right to life A vote in favor of this draft resolution is support to the Palestinians right to life. Conversely, voting against it implies an endorsement of the brutal violence and collective punishment inflicted upon them, Algerias UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama told the council before the vote. On Saturday, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield signaled that her country would veto the draft resolution over concerns it could jeopardise talks between the US, Egypt, Israel and Qatar that seek to broker a pause in the war and the release of hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Demanding an immediate, unconditional ceasefire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace. Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel, Thomas-Greenfield told the council ahead of the vote. After the vote, she said the United States will continue to actively engage in the hard work of direct diplomacy on the ground until we reach a final solution. Linda Thomas Greenfield, explaining her veto today: We will continue to actively engage in the hard work of direct diplomacy on the ground until we reach a final solution.pic.twitter.com/fImxBznORc Gaza blog in bio (@comrade_sweezy) February 20, 2024 Algerian-drafted resolution The Algerian-drafted resolution vetoed by the US did not link a ceasefire to the release of hostages. It separately demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. The message given today to Israel with this veto is that it can continue to get away with murder, Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour told the council. Israels UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan said the word ceasefire was being mentioned as if it is a silver bullet, a magical solution to all of the regions problems. A ceasefire achieves one thing and one thing only the survival of Hamas, Erdan told the council. The US has now proposed a rival draft resolution calling for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war and opposing a major ground offensive by its ally Israel in Rafah. The US envoy said her delegation is working on a hostage deal. Although gaps remain, the key elements are on the table, so if an arrangement were reached, it would involve a sustainable peace. Sometimes hard diplomacy takes more time than any of us might like, she said. Any action this Council takes should help and not hinder these sensitive ongoing negotiations. How Russia and China React Russian Ambassador Nebenzia said, Today, we have witnessed another black page in the history of the Security Council. He said that Washington pursues the same goal to cover up on behalf of its closest Middle Eastern ally and play for time so that it can complete its inhumane plans for Gaza, namely to squeeze the Palestinians out of the Strip and completely cleanse the enclave. Full responsibility for the consequences falls on Washington, no matter how hard the US tries to evade it by talking about its important mediation efforts, he said. Meanwhile, China expressed strong disappointment over the United States blocking a draft United Nations Security Council resolution on the Israel-Hamas war calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. China expresses its strong disappointment at and dissatisfaction with the U.S. veto, Xinhua reported on Wednesday, citing Chinas permanent representative to the United Nations Zhang Jun. What the US Wants Washington has been reluctant to embrace the word ceasefire in any UN action on the Israel-Hamas war. However, the US text echoes language that President Joe Biden said he used last week in conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The US draft resolution would see the Security Council underscore its support for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released, and calls for lifting all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale. This is the second time since Oct. 7 that Washington has proposed a Security Council resolution on Gaza. Russia and China vetoed its first attempt in late October. Back in December, more than three-quarters of the 193-member UN General Assembly voted to demand an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. General Assembly resolutions are not binding but carry political significance. (With agency inputs) As the Novruz holiday approaches, Azerbaijan's national air carrier, AZAL, is pleased to offer passengers flights to numerous destinations, providing a wide range of options. During the holiday season, a dynamic flight schedule is planned to various cities in Europe and Asia, catering to the desires of passengers. This time of the year, when the allure of the sea and sun is particularly strong, AZAL offers an increased number of flights to popular resort destinations. Travellers can take advantage of the holiday season to relax and enjoy beach getaways in Dubai and Jeddah. Moreover, these locations also offer fantastic shopping opportunities. An ideal choice for holidaymakers would be to spend their vacation along the Mediterranean or Black Sea coast, specifically in Antalya or Sochi. Even if the sea is not warm enough for swimming, these cities have fascinating excursions to offer. Turkiye continues to be a highly sought-after destination for leisure and shopping. In addition to flights to Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya, AZAL also operates flights to Izmir and Trabzon during the holiday period. Daily flights are available to Istanbul and Ankara, while Antalya, Izmir, and Trabzon receive four, three, and two flights per week, respectively. Furthermore, AZAL provides an extensive selection of destinations, with around 20 routes to the CIS countries during Novruz. This allows passengers to enjoy diverse holidays, ranging from resort getaways to historical excursions. The extended spring break presents a wonderful opportunity to visit Tbilisi, where one can fully experience Georgian hospitality and indulge in the delicious local cuisine! AZAL operates daily flights to the capital of Georgia, with a frequency of five flights per day. For those interested in exploring European cities, the airline offers convenient flights to Barcelona, Berlin, Vienna, Prague, London, Milan, and other cities that boast remarkable historical heritage. Moreover, during the Novruz holiday, AZAL is increasing the number of flights to several European destinations. There will be three flights per week to Barcelona, Vienna, Prague and Paris, five flights per week to Milan, and six flights per week to London. For those seeking to immerse themselves in a new culture and tradition, AZAL offers flights to Beijing, Mumbai, New Delhi, Medina, Islamabad, or Lahore. These incredible cities offer a wealth of local cuisine, ancient monuments, cultural traditions, sacred places, and modern architecture. Interestingly, passengers traveling with AZAL through Beijing have access to 28 destinations within China served by Hainan Airlines, thanks to a partnership agreement between the two airlines. Hainan Airlines provides AZAL passengers with the opportunity to travel to international destinations from Beijing, such as Bangkok, Phuket, Tokyo, and Taipei. Make unforgettable memories with AZAL! Plan your trips in advance to save on flights during the Novruz holidays, when demand is high. For your information: Among the popular international destinations of AZAL to which the airline has scheduled daily flights are: - Istanbul 4-5 flights per day - Dubai 1-2 flights per day - Tbilisi 5 flights per day - Ankara 1 flight per day - Aktau 1 flight per day. If necessary, given demand, AZAL may increase the frequency of flights. Additionally, Azerbaijan Airlines will have the highest frequency of flights during the holidays on the following international destinations: - London 6 flights per week - Milan 5 flights per week - Antalya 4 flights per week - Almaty 4 flights per week. To view the flight schedule and purchase tickets, please visit the airline's official website at www.azal.az, use AZAL mobile application or approach to the ticket office and accredited agencies of Azerbaijan Airlines. During the holidays, passengers are advised to arrive at the departure airport in advance to complete pre-flight formalities, as airport services may experience high load. For AZAL flights, online check-in opens 48 hours before and closes 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. At the airport, check-in and baggage collection must be completed 60 minutes before departure. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Karabakh, a region rich in groundwater reserves, faced an ecological crisis when Armenians damaged water reservoirs and springs, leaving practically all reservoirs in an emergency status, Deputy Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the liberated territories of the Karabakh Economic Region (except Shusha district) Bashir Hajiyev told Trend. Hajiyev made the statement during a conference on "Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region". He also noted that Azerbaijan is carrying out unprecedented efforts to secure the future of Karabakh. "During the years of occupation, the infrastructure in Karabakh was ruined by enemy vandalism, and the ecology suffered the most. Our cities, villages, and towns, subjected to Armenian vandalism are undergoing reconstruction in a modern fashion, with three villages in Aghdam currently in the construction phase, and the first stage of the project expected to be completed by the end of this year, with planned resettlement in 2025," the official added. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The Government has urged the media to treat matters to do with the countrys security establishments with care and sensitivity and desist from leading internal processes that might be taking place in the organisations. This comes as the Zimbabwe Defence Forces has informed the nation that it was premature to make conclusions about allegations made by an online news organisation, The NewsHawks, which sought to impute corruption on three General officers in the ZDF. The ZDF has also warned social media mischief makers who doctored its original statement responding to an article by The NewsHawks in which the news organisation sought to besmirch other people in the military command in its story about the three General officers. In its article published last week, The NewsHawks, quoting unnamed sources, claimed that ZDF had fired three army commanders after they were allegedly implicated in a multi-million dollar housing scandal. In an interview yesterday, Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet (Presidential Communications) Mr George Charamba said the media should exercise caution when dealing with matters of national security establishments. We continue to urge the media fraternity to treat stories to do with security structures of this country with utmost care and sensitivity. The ZDF has got its own internal processes to investigate any allegation against any of its members and it is always prudent for the media to follow, rather than seek to lead such a process. Leading through advocacy muddies the water and may invite some responses, which may not be that palatable, said Mr Charamba. The NewsHawks has since issued a statement saying it had frozen articles to do with ZDFs three commanders. The news organisation went on to play a victim card, by chronicling incidents where it claimed that it had received backlash arising from its stories about security establishments. Commenting on the statement from The NewsHawks, Mr Charamba said the media should appreciate that security concerns of a country take precedence ahead of ones preferences or values. Whatever your values or priorities might be, nothing surpasses or rises above the security concerns of this country, said Mr Charamba. In its response to the story, ZDF said it had launched an investigation into an alleged corruption case by three general officers to establish the veracity of the allegations. It slammed the media particularly The NewsHawks for peddling falsehoods about the organisation and individuals associated with it. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to reaffirm and reassure the public of its commitment to the rule of law, discipline, presumption of innocence and zero tolerance to corruption in whatever form and whatever level, it said. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces, however, notes with great concern attempts by NewsHawks and other media outlets to peddle falsehoods about the organisation and individuals taking advantage of the alleged corruption matter currently under investigation. The public will be apprised on any developments and outcomes in due course. Following the statement from the ZDF, some social media mischief makers issued a doctored press statement purporting to be emanating from the military establishment. The statement imputed misdemeanour on senior persons of the military command, which the ZDF denounced. The ZDF, however, notes with great concern that some mischievous social media players have now doctored the last three paragraphs of the statement to distort the content of the original response by the ZDF to the NewsHawks. In that regard, the ZDF dissociates itself from the letter purported to be from the ZDF headquarters circulating on social media, which is different from what it had posted, reads the statement. Herald The smell that took over Cape Town was so putrid and far-reaching that authorities in the South African city launched an investigation into its source on Monday. It turns out it wasn't a sewage facility leak but rather an odor emanating from a ship docked in the harbor that held 19,000 live cattle that were on their way from Brazil to Iraq, reports the AP. The 623-foot-long Al Kuwait had stopped there on Sunday in order to load feed for the cattle and was due to leave later Tuesday, reports Reuters. Standout quotes: Russia's Federal Security ServiceFSBannounced Tuesday that another American citizen is in Russian custody. The FSB said a 33-year-old dual Russian-American citizen based in Los Angeles was arrested on suspicion of treason, the Guardian reports. According to the legal NGO Perviy Otdel, Ksenia Khavana was arrested in Yekaterinburg at the end of January and accused of treason on Feb. 7. The FSB said she had collected funds for a Ukrainian organization and, while in the US, had "participated in public actions in support of the Kyiv regime." Khavana could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted, though analysts suspect she will be used as a bargaining chip. Perviy Otdel said the treason charge stems from a $51.80 donation Khavana made in the US to the charitable fund Razom for Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, the day Russia invaded Ukraine. Razom funds humanitarian causes including medical equipment for first responders. Khavana has also been identified as Ksenia Karelina, which could be her maiden name Maryland resident Eleanora Srebroski tells the New York Times that Khavana was once married to her son, but she moved to California when they split up in 2015. "She just brings light everywhere she goes." She says her former daughter-in-law is a "beautiful person" and she is not surprised by the donation to Ukraine. "Anyone who is hurt, she is on their side." Isabella Koretz, president of a spa in Beverly Hills, tells the Times that Khavana has worked there for eight years. The spa said Khavana was arrested after traveling to Russia to visit her grandmother, parents, and younger sister. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said American authorities are trying to get more information and secure consular access, the AP reports. He said US authorities have issued "very strong warnings about the danger posed to US citizens inside Russia." "If you're a US citizen, including a dual national residing in or traveling in Russia, you ought to leave right now," Kirby said. (More Russia stories.) The Supreme Court, with its two most conservative justices dissenting, has decided to leave a controversial admissions policy at a Virginia magnet school in place. The court declined to review the policy at the prestigious Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, which moved to boost diversity in 2020 by using what experts call "race-neutral" factors, the Washington Post reports. The Fairfax County School Board scrapped a standardized test and looked at factors including whether a student was economically disadvantaged, learning English, or from a "historically underrepresented" school. The board also switched to prioritizing the top students from each public middle school in the district instead of the top students overall, but admissions officers were not told the name, race, or sex of any student, the New York Times reports. In the first freshman class admitted after the policy was introduced, the percentage of Black students went from 1% to 7% and the percentage of Hispanic students went from 3% to 11%, the AP reports. The percentage of Asian American students, however, went from 73% to 54% and a group of parents sued, calling the new policy discriminatory. A district court judge called the process "patently unconstitutional" in 2022, but an appeals court reversed the decision in May last year. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas dissented to the decision to allow the policy to stand. Alito wrote that the appeal court's "aberrant" decision meant "intentional racial discrimination is constitutional so long as it is not too severe." He said the Virginia schools policy could become a road map for schools trying to get around the court's ruling against affirmative action last year, the Post reports. School board chair Karl Frisch said he welcomed the decision. "We have long believed that the new admissions process is both constitutional and in the best interest of all of our students," he said. (More US Supreme Court stories.) The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected appeals from three House Republicans who challenged fines for not wearing face coverings on the House floor in 2021. The justices did not comment on leaving in place $500 fines issued in May 2021 to Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, and Ralph Norman of South Carolina, the AP reports. The mask requirement was part of the House's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the mandate remained in place even after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance noting that "fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing." The lawmakers showed up on the House floor without masks, even posing for a selfie. The requirement was lifted in June 2021. Lower courts had refused to disturb the fines, ruling that courts lack the power to review the mask policy. Lawyers for House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, had urged the court to reject the appeal from fellow Republican representatives, though they noted that Johnson and every other member of the Republican leadership voted against the mask policy. The lawmakers were fined $500 for a first offense and $2,500 for subsequent offenses, with the money withheld from their pay. Greene's fines ballooned to more than $80,000. The lawmakers argued that the pay deductions violated the 27th Amendment, the Hill reports. The amendment was ratified in 1992, more than 200 years after it was first submitted to states. It says laws changing compensation for members of Congress cannot take effect until after an election. (More mask mandates stories.) A Trident missile shot off a British nuclear submarine in a test launch last month didn't fare well: It misfired and crashed into the waters off of Florida. Per Sky News , the UK Defense Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that an "anomaly" had taken place during the Jan. 30 missile launch from the HMS Vanguard, though an agency spokesperson insisted that the missile "remains safe, secure, and effective." The BBC , however, notes that the crash, the second failed test firing in a row for the UK, is "highly embarrassing" for both the Royal Navy and the manufacturer of the missile, Lockheed Martin. The last failed test launch took place in 2016, when a missile fired off the HMS Vengeance went the wrong way and self-destructed, per the Sun. British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps was said to have been aboard the HMS Vanguard during last month's launch, which the outlet notes initially seemed to be going well, with the 58-ton missile loaded with warhead replicas "propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch tube." But the missile's first-stage boosters never lit up, and the missile ended up plunging into the ocean. "It left the submarine, but it just went plop, right next to them," a source tells the paper. The missile's target was supposed to be about 3,700 miles away in the Atlantic, somewhere between Brazil and Africa's west coast. In a statement, the Defense Ministry said the launch failure was "event specific" and insisted that had it been loaded up with actual warheads, it would've been a successful launch. "As a matter of national security, we cannot provide further information on this," the statement said. Officials also emphasize that Trident missiles have undergone nearly 200 successful tests involving both the UK and the United States. The AP notes that the Trident D5 missiles on board the Royal Navy's nuclear subs are the same ones used by the US Navy. (More nuclear missiles stories.) The whereabouts of Alexei Navalny's body remain unknown, as does his cause of death. Russian authorities have said they will not release his body for the next two weeks as the preliminary inquest into his Friday death continues. But his mother has been fighting for access to her son's remains since Saturday and has filed a lawsuit to that end. The latest on her effort, and the situation in general: Lyudmila Navalnaya's suit, filed at a court in the Arctic city of Salekhard, contests officials' refusal to release her son's body to her, per the AP via Russian state news agency Tass. A closed-door hearing is slated for March 4. The suit followed a plea Navalnaya made directly to Vladimir Putin requesting her son's body. "The resolution of this matter depends solely on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexei's body is released immediately, so that I can bury him like a human being." UPDATE Feb 21, 2024 2:45 PM CST WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange won't find out until next month at the earliest whether he can challenge extradition to the US on spying charges, or if his long legal battle in Britain has run out of road. Two High Court judges said Wednesday they would take time to consider their verdict after a two-day hearing in which Assange's lawyers argued sending him to the US would risk a "flagrant denial of justice," the AP reports. If the judges rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extraditionthough supporters worry that he could be put on a plane to the US before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. Feb 21, 2024 9:30 AM CST Lawyers for the American government argued on Wednesday before a London court why they think Julian Assange should face espionage charges in the United States, in response to a last-ditch bid by his defense to stop the extradition of the WikiLeaks founder. Assange's lawyers are asking the High Court to grant him a new appealhis last legal roll of the dice in the long-running saga that has kept him in a British high-security prison for the past five years, per the AP. The 52-year-old Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his website's publication of classified US documents almost 15 years ago. Some 153,000 people got an email from President Biden on Wednesday, and regardless of their politics, it's likely one they were thrilled to get. The Department of Education says the email informs those borrowers that their student loan debt will be forgivensome $1.2 billion in total. What you need to know: Who: The borrowers impacted had all enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, borrowed $12,000 or less, and have made payments for at least a decade. As Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona put it, "If you've been paying for a decade, you've done your part, and you deserve relief." The borrowers impacted had all enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, borrowed $12,000 or less, and have made payments for at least a decade. As Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona put it, "If you've been paying for a decade, you've done your part, and you deserve relief." The process: It's pretty simple. Those who fall under this round of forgiveness don't have to do anything. Their loan forgiveness will automatically be processed within days. It's pretty simple. Those who fall under this round of forgiveness don't have to do anything. Their loan forgiveness will automatically be processed within days. The SAVE plan: It's an income-based repayment plan, where monthly payments are calibrated to the borrower's income and family size. Anyone enrolled in the SAVE planand there are 7.5 million of themwill see their loans forgiven after 20 or 25 years. This shorter period applies to those with smaller balances. CBS News notes that more than half of those people in the plan currently pay $0 a month. Standing before Juan Orlando Hernandez in December 2019, then-President Trump applauded the leader of Honduras for working "very closely" with the US to stop the flow of drugs "at a level that has never happened," per the Guardian . Indeed, both the Trump and Obama administrations considered Hernandez an ally in the fight against drugs, the Wall Street Journal reports. But months before that 2019 meeting in Florida, prosecutors in New York had detailed Hernandez's alleged role in a drug conspiracy case that resulted in a conviction and life sentence for his brother. Now his own drug trial begins in Manhattan federal court, some two years after his presidency ended and he was arrested and extradition to the US. Hernandez cites his cooperation with the US as evidence of his having acted against drug traffickers, not with them. US prosecutors instead say he turned Honduras into a "narco-state" while accepting millions of dollars in bribes from drug traffickers, including notorious Mexican cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. In what some in Honduras are calling "the trial of the century," Hernandez stands accused of ordering the army to protect drug traffickers and informing traffickers about planned raids while helping move 500 tons of cocaine through Honduras, per the Journal. He faces one count of conspiring to import cocaine to the US and two counts of carrying weapons "in furtherance of the cocaine importation conspiracy," per the BBC. Prosecutors claim to have a photo of a machine gun bearing his name and presidential title, the Journal reports. Hernandez has pleaded not guilty. In a letter published Monday, the 55-year-old claims the allegations stem from cartels seeking revenge for his pursuit of them. The trial began Wednesday and is expected to last up to three weeks. story continues below Hernandez could face a life sentence if convicted on all three countsand apparently expects it. Speaking to a judge in Honduras weeks after his arrest in 2022, he stated a life sentence was guaranteed if his extradition to the US was approved, per the Guardian. Court filings indicate he may testify in his own defense, stressing the contradiction between the allegations and the praise he received from US officials, the Journal reports. The last former head of state to face drug-trafficking charges in the US was Gen. Manuel Noriega more than three decades ago. (More Juan Orlando Hernandez stories.) BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. A total of 38 multi-storey buildings are under construction in Azerbaijan's Fuzuli, Deputy Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the liberated territories of the Karabakh Economic Region (except Shusha district) Bashir Hajiyev said during the conference on "Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region", Trend reports. According to him, 527 families (about 2,000 people) have already settled in Fuzuli. "In the coming months, this number will reach 846 families. People who move there are provided with work," he noted. "The projects being implemented in Karabakh are historical events. It is a great honor to invest in the work that is being done in these territories. The rich water resources of the territories play an important role in the country's industry and agriculture." "However, the situation in the Sarsang reservoir [which was occupied by Armenia for over 30 years] is rather heavy due to neglect. Untreated wastewater discharges into rivers and deforestation caused an environmental disaster," added the official. Following the liberation of its territories from Armenian occupation in 2020, Azerbaijan initiated the long-awaited 'Great Return' program, which envisions the return of IDPs to their native lands. Up to now, former IDPs have returned to Fuzuli and Lachin cities, the villages of Aghali (Zangilan district), Talish (Aghdara district), and Zabukh (Lachin district). Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Those who watched the original version of The Office out of Britain will know him as "Big Keith." Ewen MacIntosh, the actor who portrayed an accountant aspiring to be a DJ, has died at age 50, reports the BBC. No cause of death was given, but a statement from his management company said MacIntosh had been in "ill health" for the last two years, per the Guardian. MacIntosh also worked as a comedian and in other shows, but he was best known for his portrayal of the egg-loving Keith Bishop in the show's first broadcast in 2001. Officials at a high school in Oklahoma acknowledge "questions remain" some two weeks after a student died in the aftermath of a school fight. Owasso Public Schools says an altercation erupted between students in a bathroom at Owasso High School's West Campus on Feb. 7. The students were in the bathroom "for less than two minutes" before the altercation was broken up by other students and "a staff member who was supervising outside of the restroom," according to a Tuesday statement, per NBC News . The district said all students involved "walked under their own power to the assistant principal's office and nurse's office." Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old sophomore who used they/them pronouns, collapsed the following day and died. No cause of death has been provided. Owassa Police said Nex suffered severe head injuries, per the Independent. In an interview with the outlet, Nex's mother, Sue Benedict, claims Nex was bullied because they were transgender. The abuse reportedly started at the beginning of the school year, during which Nex was required by state law to use bathrooms matching the sex listed on their birth certificate. "I said 'you've got to be strong and look the other way, because these people don't know who you are,'" says Benedict. "I didn't know how bad it had gotten." She says Nex and another trans teen were fighting with three girls in a girls bathroom when Nex was knocked to the ground, hitting their head on the floor. The district said students were evaluated by the nurse and "it was determined that ambulance service was not required." However, "out of an abundance of caution, it was recommended to one parent that their student visit a medical facility for further examination." Benedict says she took Nex to a hospital and spoke with a school resource officer there before Nex was discharged. She says the teen collapsed and died the following day. While LGBTQ advocacy group Freedom Oklahoma describes Nex's death as a "possible hate-motivated attack," per the Washington Post, police say they are still investigating while awaiting toxicology and autopsy reports. If charges are recommended, they will be forwarded to the Tulsa County District Attorney's Office. (More Nex Benedict stories.) The US is pretty sure Russia is developing a nuclear weapon that could be deployed in space to take out satellites. Vladimir Putin, of course, denies it. Here's a look at coverage with more details on what's going on: Soon? US intelligence agencies are warning allies that Russia might deploy such a weapon as early as this year, reports Bloomberg. The New York Times reports the same. The weapon would be "nested inside a satellite, capable of destroying swarms of commercial and military satellites circulating alongside it in low-earth orbit," per the Times. US intelligence agencies are warning allies that Russia might deploy such a weapon as early as this year, reports Bloomberg. The New York Times reports the same. The weapon would be "nested inside a satellite, capable of destroying swarms of commercial and military satellites circulating alongside it in low-earth orbit," per the Times. A wrinkle: Both outlets raise another possibilitythat Putin will launch a mock nuclear weapon, thereby making it all the more difficult to know how to respond. Jack Sweeney, the college student who received a cease-and-desist letter from Taylor Swift's lawyers for tracking her private jets and sharing updates on social media, has responded using the title of one of her hits. "Look What You Made Me Do," he wrote in a post on X , sharing a letter from his attorney James Slater to Swift's lawyer. Slater said "the @taylorswiftjets account is engaged in protected speech that does not violate any of Ms. Swift's legal rights," CBS News reports. Slater said there was nothing unlawful about Sweeney's company, GRNDCNTRL, using "publicly accessible information to track private jets, including those by public figures like Taylor Swift." Sweeney also shared letters from Swift's lawyers, including one that accused him of engaging in "stalking and harassing behavior." Slater said a law Swift's attorneys referred to defined a stalker as someone who poses a "credible threat," USA Today reports. "Our clients [meaning Sweeney and his company] have never made any threats against Ms. Swift and your letter does not suggest they have done so," Slater wrote. "Further, your letter's tone is unfounded." (More Taylor Swift stories.) UPDATE Feb 23, 2024 12:30 AM CST Audrii Cunningham, the 11-year-old Texas girl found dead in a river this week after vanishing last week, died of homicidal violence including blunt head trauma, the medical examiner's office said Thursday, per the AP. Family and friends remembered the fifth-grader at a vigil Wednesday night, CNN reports. "No matter where she went or who she met, she just made them light up," her aunt said. "She could always make you laugh, no matter what kind of mood you were in. It just isn't fair that we all got robbed of that." Feb 21, 2024 3:46 PM CST A friend of Audrii Cunningham's father has been charged with capital murder in the death of the 11-year-old Texas girl, whose body was found in a river on Tuesday. Jail records in Polk County, north of Houston, show that 42-year-old Don Steven McDougal has been charged with the murder of a person between the ages of 10 and 15, Fox News reports. Before Audrii's body was found in the Trinity River, McDougal, who was already in jail on an unrelated aggravated assault charge, was described as the main person of interest in her disappearance. He is being held without bond. Story by John Tookey from The Conversation Cyclone Gabrielle caused chaos one year ago. Repairs due to that storm and the Auckland floods have required substantial time and resources. Hawkes Bay, parts of Auckland and the Coromandel all still bear the scars of the worst storm to hit New Zealand this century. The good news is that most initial repairs are complete. The bad news is that the restored infrastructure is just as vulnerable as it was prior to Gabrielle. Restoring infrastructure to the way it was before a natural disaster is not necessarily the best approach for a resilient future. Cyclone Gabrielle simultaneously exposed New Zealand's dependence on "horizontal" infrastructure (electricity and roading networks, for example), and how tenuous and potentially prone to damage it is. The cyclone also revealed the flaws in the country's planning and consenting processes. There is a history of developing new housing in flood-prone areas particularly in Auckland. A year after Gabrielle, New Zealand needs to look to the future of climate risk, policy creation and infrastructural investment. Both the previous and current governments have expressed concerns over future climate impacts. Yet climate risk and related infrastructure investment were comparatively minor themes in the various election debates of 2023. New Zealand now needs to ask some serious long-term questions: How frequently will it be exposed to the costs and chaos of weather events? How should it respond to those risks? What are the infrastructural investment priorities? How should it sequence its responses? And how will we pay for these measures? Political agreement in theory Failing to ask let alone answer those questions means New Zealand cant plan, cant build and can't budget. In October 2016, the National-led governments environment minister Paula Bennett announced the ratification of the Paris Climate Accord. The treaty became legally enforceable in New Zealand in 2020 while Jacinda Ardern was prime minister. Fundamentally, the commitment to addressing climate change is a point of agreement across the political spectrum. Having ratified the Paris Accord, cuts to the country's emissions are legally enforceable and time-bound. But New Zealand's infrastructural planning, investments and commitments remain vague. The Ardern government produced "Adapt and Thrive: Building a climate-resilient Aotearoa New Zealand" in August 2022. There was little coverage of this consultation document at the time or since, and the general public is largely unaware of it. Adapt and Thrive advocates multiple strategies in response to climate change, including "avoid, protect, accommodate, retreat". All elements of this plan have planning, legislative and resource implications. But central to the report is the idea of "managed retreat" from flood-prone areas. The report indicates 300,000 dwellings will be directly affected by adverse weather events in the future. At least NZ$100 billion worth of property has been flagged as directly at risk, affecting 72,000 New Zealanders. It is fair to say that the cost of new housing and infrastructure designed to protect at-risk communities, as well as service relocated ones, will be spectacularly expensive. Can NZ 'adapt and thrive'? It is now time for New Zealand to decide to what degree it wishes to ameliorate the effects of climate change. If this is a national priority, then planning, budgeting and sequencing need to be committed to. Hundreds of billions of dollars will be needed over a multi-decade, integrated programme of planning, compulsory purchase and infrastructure construction. With the change of government, however, will that plan be put into action? There are aspects of it that make this questionable. The different treatment of stakeholder groups around compensation during "managed retreat" will be problematic for the new governing coalition. For example, Adapt and Thrive proposes 50% compensation for businesses and rental property owners, with zero compensation for bach or second home owners. Relocated communities' resilience in terms of jobs, economic activity and housing will become contentious. Adapt and Thrive also proposes limiting of rights of appeal for affected communities. The extensive planning and procurement processes involved make it hard to imagine the right to appeal being entirely quashed. Inevitably, the process of planning, financial commitments and appeals will be drawn out. Time for big decisions To say Adapt and Thrive will be challenging to put into effect is an understatement. If the policy is going to be reconsidered, so be it. But New Zealand has pressing infrastructural investment needs to facilitate growth and sustainability. The planning and procurement needed to implement such policy is time-consuming and costly. Irrespective of political orientation, there is an absolute need to prioritise it. Given the huge financial consequences, and inevitable trade-offs in social programmes, education, defence and other budget priorities, a time frame for making big decisions is essential. Failure to do so will inhibit future growth and housing provision, reduce cost-effectiveness, as well as threaten the sustainability of communities in vulnerable areas. Cyclone Gabrielle made it clear that kicking this particular can down the road is not acceptable. The Conversation Health and Disability Commissioner Morag McDowell said Te Whatu Ora Southern, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora and Te Aho o Te Kahu Cancer Control Agency had done "considerable work" to improve the service in response to her recommendations 10 months ago. "However, it is evident that progress is greatly hindered by the difficulties in recruitment of the workforce, and the service has faced significant challenges since the publication of my report." One radiation oncologist - only identified as "Dr E" - told the Commission the department was "sorely understaffed" in terms of senior doctors, and the service was "more at risk now than it was when the [original] report was written". Another specialist, Dr B, said "the Medical Oncology service remains understaffed and therefore wait times remain unsatisfactory, and this creates a significant burden on the staff". As a result, patient outcomes were "potentially compromised". McDowell said until oncology workforces were brought up to a viable level and stabilised, there was "no guarantee that patients will be seen and treated within appropriate timeframes and therefore there is no guarantee there will not be ongoing patient harm". She acknowledged the "great efforts" by Te Whatu Ora Southern in trying to attract specialists, and commended Te Whatu Ora's focus on local and national recruitment efforts. "I am sympathetic to the disappointing outcomes of significant efforts to recruit radiation oncologists... there are workforce challenges across the country. It's a complex issue and it will take some time to address." The problems in Southern district's oncology service - particularly the workforce shortages in radiation oncology - were not unique to the region, she said. "The issues faced by services in the Southern district are not isolated with cancer services across the motu facing similar challenges and I am encouraged by Te Whatu Ora's commitment to instituting clear pathways for escalation of clinical risk nationally. "It remains critically important that progress continues to be made and that patient safety remains the focus of actions taken." Patient advocate Melissa Vining, whose husband Blair died of bowel cancer in 2019, said Te Whatu Ora needed to get serious about recruiting specialists and paying them what they were worth. "So no, I don't think they're doing enough at a national level with Health New Zealand and the Ministry of Health. "The report outlines the doctors are doing more hours to try and help, and they've covering with locums, but that's not a sustainable solution and they're not able to see a number of patients in a timely way." When Blair Vining was diagnosed, he was given 6-8 weeks to live, but told he could be waiting up to 12 weeks for his first specialist appointment. He was able to get private treatment and spent the last year of his life campaigning for better services for the southern region. His widow has continued his advocacy work, including pushing for the establishment of the Southland Charity Hospital, which is shortly to open. "For people in our region this has been going on for a long time, and I just don't think people should die because of where they live. It's just so wrong." Cancer Society medical director Kate Gregory agreed the public system needed more investment to stop specialists leaving for higher pay in Australia or the private sector - and prevent burnout among those left behind. "The more under-resourced in terms of bodies a service becomes then people are working hard, people are under stress, it just doesn't look attractive for people to go into that service, into those jobs because they know they're going into a system that's under-resourced." Te Whatu Ora national director of hospital and specialist services Fionnagh Dougan said Health New Zealand remained committed to providing timely and accessible cancer services to the Southern community. Te Whatu Ora said it was recruiting for permanent radiation oncologists, but locums were currently filling the gaps. The waiting list for first appointments last week was 56, down from 113 last February. Both medical oncology and haematology were "fully recruited to budget". "Health New Zealand acknowledges that all three specialities continue to be vulnerable to an increasing demand and workforce pressures." Some patients requiring lower complexity treatment were still having to travel for treatment, she said. "We acknowledge the distress that this can cause. Health New Zealand continues to support all patients and their whanau through their treatment journey." All patients referred are linked in with Patient Navigators - a team of specialist registered nurses who can check in on patients and provide advice and updates on wait times, and "signpost" patients to other support services such as their GP, the Cancer Psychosocial Team, and the Cancer Society. The National Radiology Group - which has been in place since mid-2023 - was assisting with additional radiation oncology trainees, standardising some pathways, and supporting the movement of patients to reduce treatment waiting times. RNZ He added New Zealand is continuing to stand with Ukraine as the war has impacted global stability and come at a huge cost to human lives. "Russia launched its illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter," Peters said. "The war has had a horrific human cost, caused immense suffering and has significantly impacted regional and global stability. That is why New Zealand remains committed to standing with Ukraine." During the past two years, New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel have been on the ground in Europe and the UK helping train and support Ukrainian troops, and the Government has announced that support will continue. "The Government is pleased to announce NZDF's meaningful, visible and highly credible deployment of skilled personnel in support of Ukraine will extend until June 2025," Collins said. "Up to 97 NZDF personnel will continue to train Ukrainian soldiers and provide intelligence, liaison and logistics support." On top of the extension of the NZDF deployment, the Government has also announced the package will include $6.5 million to the United Kingdom - for Ukraine to procure weapons and ammunition for Ukraine. It will also include $7 million in humanitarian assistance to support Ukrainians affected by the war, including those who have been displaced to neighbouring countries. To achieve this, Aotearoa will partner with international humanitarian agencies and New Zealand humanitarian NGOs to deliver this support. A further $3 million will also be given to the World Bank's Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund. The Government has also announced new sanctions are being worked on under the Russia Sanctions Act 2022, focussed on countering sanctions evasion. "It is critical Ukraine knows the international community stands by it, and that Russia understands that countries such as New Zealand support Ukraine's self-defence. This package demonstrates our commitment to this," Collins said. Death Valley National Park averages about 2 inches of rain per year, the NPS said in the release. But the valley floor has gotten 4.9 inches in the past six months. The surrounding mountains have seen even more rain. 'It's a great time to come' Most of the rain came in just two events: 2.2 inches during the remnants of Hurricane Hilary on August 20, 2023, and 1.5 inches during an atmospheric river February 4-7, the release said. "The lake was deep enough to kayak for a few weeks after Hurricane Hilary, but unfortunately people couldn't come enjoy it then," said Wines. "Every road in the park was damaged by flash floods, and it took two months to open the first road into the park. "Now most of the main roads are open, so it's a great time to come visit!" Some secondary and backcountry roads are closed, so be sure to check for the latest weather information before setting out. But adventurers can currently reach Badwater Basin via paved road. Welcome to Lake Manly Informally known as Lake Manly, the fleeting pool is about 6 miles long, 3 miles wide and just 1 foot deep. It might be deep enough to kayak only for a couple weeks, the NPS said. "However, park rangers believe the shallow lake will still create beautiful reflections through April," the release said. Park rangers ask that would-be visitors follow park rules and minimize their impact on the fragile desert environment. "Parking lots may be full. If parking on a road shoulder, drivers should be cautious of soft shoulders and ensure they are fully out of the driving lane. Footprints in the lakeshore can last for years. People should walk on established pathways," the release said. All hotels and most campgrounds in the park are open, the NPS reports. You'll need to provide your own kayak. "Death Valley does not have any kayaks available for rent. If folks are planning on paddling in the park, they will need to bring their own gear. We also recommend bringing some water to wash the salt of your gear or person," the park told CNN Travel on Monday. If you're hoping for a bonanza wildflower bloom from all that rain, you might be disappointed. There are scatterings of wildflowers in Panamint Valley and Ubehebe Crater, the NPS reports, but no major blooms have been sighted yet. Typical wildflower season is late February through mid-April, the NPS says. And if the wonders of the Earth aren't enough to lure you there, the park plans to hold its annual Death Valley Dark Sky Festival from March 1 to March 3 for some epic star-gazing. CNN BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The Azerbaijani Embassy in the Russian Federation has commented on the detention of citizen Kamil Zeynalli, Trend reports. "Kamil Zeynalli, an Azerbaijani citizen, was held at Moscow's Domodedovo airport tonight on Armenia's request. The request was made in accordance with a CIS interstate pact. As soon as the imprisonment of the Azerbaijani citizen became known, the Consul and Vice-Consul were dispatched to the airport on the orders of Ambassador Polad Bulbuloglu, who clarified the situation on the spot. Currently, the staff of the diplomatic mission is near the detainee," the Embassy stated. Meanwhile, in the early morning of February 21, a lawyer invited by the Embassy held a meeting with Zeynalli, during which he explained his rights under the law. "At the moment, the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan is implementing the appropriate legal procedures within the framework of the legislation of the Russian Federation and making every effort to safeguard the rights of the detainee," the diplomatic mission stated. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel 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, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, commended the historical strategic partnership between Bahrain and the US, citing their continued joint coordination, especially in the military and defence fields. HM the King affirmed that the Bahraini-American ties are built on decades of mutual respect and keenness to achieve common goals. HM King Hamad was speaking as he received the newly appointed Commander of the United States Naval Forces Central Command, Commander of the US Fifth Fleet, and Commander of Combined Maritime Forces, Vice Admiral George M. Wikoff, at Al Safriya Palace yesterday. His Majesty welcomed Vice Admiral Wikoff, and wished him success in carrying out his duties. The Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces emphasised the pivotal role played by the US, alongside brotherly and allied countries, in consolidating international peace and security, as well as protecting global trade routes. Vice Admiral Wikoff expressed pride in the role played by HM King in strengthening the Bahrain-US partnership relations and enhancing their defence cooperation. He commended the role of the kingdom and its keenness to cooperate with the international community to promote efforts to consolidate regional stability and peace. Bahrain MPs tell private sector to Work Less, Earn More Bahrain MPs tell private sector to Work Less, Earn More TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Reported by Mahir Haneef The Council of Representatives yesterday passed the proposal for more benefits for private sector employees in Bahrain, including a two-day weekly leave. During the discussions held yesterday, the council witnessed a wave of support for the proposed amendments to the Private Sector Employment Law, promising significant improvements for employees rights and benefits. MP Jalal Kadhem Hasan spearheaded the initiative, highlighting crucial areas like additional pay for tasks beyond job descriptions and ensuring informed consent for healthcare provisions. Concerns regarding extended working hours and insufficient rest days were echoed by MP Mamdooh Abbas Al Saleh, who advocated for aligning private sector practices with government standards by granting two-day weekly leave. He emphasized the potential positive impact on productivity, motivation, and unemployment reduction. MP Ali Majed AlNoaimi commended the integration of Economic Vision 2050 into the legislative efforts, emphasizing the need for permanent allowances for Bahraini citizens in private sector employment. He viewed these amendments as crucial for encouraging Bahraini participation and solidifying Bahrains position as a top choice for workers. MP Hasan Ebrahim Hasan, a champion for womens empowerment, expressed support for bridging the gap between the public and private sectors. He proposed allowances for private sector employees required to work on weekends, ensuring fairness, and urged employers to prioritize hiring Bahrainis for mutual benefits. MP Mahmood Merza Fardan focused on bridging the gap between public and private sector benefits, highlighting the need to incentivize Bahraini youth to enter the private sector. He called for amendments to ensure parity between employees in different sectors, citing existing disparities. These proposed amendments, backed by various organizations and praised by fellow MPs, aim to enhance job security, rights, and opportunities for private sector employees in Bahrain. The final decision on the proposal holds the potential to significantly shape the working environment and empower the workers in the Kingdoms private sector. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijan is currently at a transitional stage of its economic development, said Vice Rector of Academic Affairs at ADA University (Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy) Elkin Nurmammadov during the event on the establishment of the Azerbaijan Education Research Association (AzERA) and its joining the European Educational Research Association (EERA), Trend reports. "Azerbaijan is presently undergoing a transitional phase in its development, shifting from the old oil and gas-based economic model to a new one. In this context, fostering the growth of the private sector is pivotal. The strategic importance of education and human capital development is emphasized for Azerbaijan's prosperity and success in transitioning to the new economic model," he emphasized. He highlighted that the Azerbaijan Education Research Association (AzERA) will organize numerous additional events to contribute to the advancement of education in the country, with ADA University prepared to offer support in this domain. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Bahrain MPs divided over law to ban travel of expats with unpaid debts Bahrain MPs divided over law to ban travel of expats with unpaid debts TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Bahrains parliament has ignited a firestorm by passing a proposal that could prevent foreign workers from leaving the country if they have outstanding debts. While some lawmakers hail it as a victory for creditors, others worry it infringes on basic human rights. MP Maryam Al Dhaen emerged as a fierce critic, blasting the ban as a violation of freedom of movement and a potential breeding ground for lawyer exploitation. She championed alternative solutions, like involving embassies and offering debtors ways to repay through prison work. On the other side, MP Mahmood Merza Fardan acknowledged the need for respecting human rights but stressed protecting creditors too. He clarified that expats can still leave with financial guarantees, dispelling myths about the law. MP Mamdouh Abbas Alsaleh cheered the proposal, citing similar laws in neighbouring countries and the need to stop debtors from fleeing. He saw it as safeguarding both citizens and the state from financial losses. However, MP Ahmed Sabah Alsallom wasnt convinced. He slammed the current law for being too lenient, giving debtors a nine-month grace period. He urged stricter rules to plug loopholes and prevent further losses. Finally, MP Ahmed Abdulwahed Qarata raised concerns about potential discrimination against foreign workers, urging equal treatment and highlighting the negative impact of lax regulations on businesses. He pushed for a complete review of existing laws to ensure fairness and security for all. The heated debate reflects the complex challenges of balancing creditor rights with human rights and ensuring fair treatment for all residents in Bahrain. Only time will tell what shape the final law will take and how it will impact the lives of expats and creditors alike. Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister inaugurates Marassi Galleria TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today inaugurated the Marassi Galleria at Marassi Al Bahrain. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister highlighted the wide-ranging achievements witnessed by the Kingdom since the launch of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030, adding that the all-encompassing Vision has provided inspiration to continue building on these achievements in line with the Kingdoms comprehensive development goals, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad went on to highlight the depth of relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which continues to receive the unwavering support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. HRH the Crown Prince added that longstanding ties have resulted in a wide array of multi-sectoral partnerships across the public and private sectors. HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad stressed that the Economic Recovery Plans major development projects span across different sectors, providing quality opportunities for Bahraini citizens, increasing the countrys competitiveness and supporting economic diversification efforts. In this regard, His Royal Highness underscored the pivotal role played by the Kingdoms private sector as a major driver of growth for the economy. His Royal Highness noted the importance of continuing to attract investments that will benefit Bahrain and its citizens. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister toured the mall, set against the stunning backdrop of Bahrains coastline, viewing its modern and recreational facilities and noting the efforts of all parties who have jointly contributed to the project. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister emphasised the importance of further expanding the economy to keep pace with development and sustainability requirements by launching economic strategies and policies that attract investments, enhancing entrepreneurship and innovation, and increasing productivity. In this regard, His Royal Highness expressed the Kingdom's commitment to invest in infrastructure, educational development, and trade and economic cooperation at the regional and international levels to benefit the country and its citizens. Moreover, HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister underscored the government's commitment to further the Kingdom's economic growth and expand the total size of the economy to benefit Bahrain and its citizens. Commenting on the occasion, the Chairman of Eagle Hills and Founder and Managing Director of Emaar Properties, Mr. Mohamed Alabbar said, "We express our profound gratitude to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, to have accepted our invitation and marking this historic occasion. His gracious presence shines a light on the significance of this project and its potential to enrich the economic and cultural fabric of the Kingdom. We are confident that Marassi Galleria will serve as a catalyst for further development and innovation, positioning Bahrain as a progressive and exciting destination for all. Marassi Galleria is more than just a shopping mall; it is a vibrant social hub, a cultural haven, and our tribute to the Kingdoms burgeoning cosmopolitan spirit." AFP | Madrid The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Nearly 60,000 litres of premium red wine worth some 2.5 million euros ($2.7 million) were lost at a Spanish winery after someone broke this weekend and opened the vats, the winery said on Tuesday. Security camera footage released by the renowned Cepa 21 winery in the Ribera del Duero region of central Spain showed a person in a hoodie running from one large vat to another and turning on the taps, causing wine to pour out onto the floor. The incident happened at around 3:30 am on Sunday, the winery said, adding that the amount of high-end wine lost could have filled 80,000 bottles. The head of the establishment, Jose Moro, told Spanish public television TVE it was clear the intruders sole purpose was to damage the business since no items were stolen during the break-in. "It's a case of doing harm for the sake of doing harm, by someone who can't be very balanced, hasn't got much common sense and is acting out of hatred," he told the station. Moro said the intruder would have had to know how to operate the system to open the vats. "Everything indicates the person knew where they were," he added. The winery has filed a complaint with police, who confirmed to AFP they have launched an enquiry. Equity funds, Ontario based funds, City of Toronto based funds, and Ontario investors led 2023 investment fund fundraising based funds, based funds, and investors led 2023 investment fund fundraising BlackRock Asset Management Canada led $1 billion+ mega fundraising with 7 funds for $33.8 billion TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - 2,869 Canadian investment funds completed 3,169 closings and raised $213.05 billion in 2023, according to Canada's first ever comprehensive investment fund fundraising report released today by CPE Analytics. Mega fund fundraising drives activities Canadian investment funds report $213B fundraising in 2023 (CNW Group/CPE Media & Data Company) Of the 2,869 investment funds, 411 funds (14%) raising $500 million or more, raised $174.22 billion in aggregate, accounting for 82% of the total amount of fundraising. Of the 411 funds, 31 funds (1%) with $1 billion or more fundraising, raised a combined of $73.84 billion, representing 35% of the total amount of fundraising. Approximately 21% of the number of funds with $1 million or less fundraising, raised $194 million in total. Equity funds lead fundraising and money market funds lead in per fundraising size 1,280 equity funds raised $83.55 billion, leading all other types of funds with an average of $65 million per fund or $62 million per closing. 57 money market funds raised $22.58 billion in combined, leading all funds in average fundraising per fund with $396 million or $337 million per closing. # Funds # Closings $ Millions Alternative Strategies Funds 357 478 10,519 Balanced Funds 345 361 23,166 Equity Funds 1,280 1,352 83,546 Fixed Income Funds 604 643 65,459 Money Market Funds 57 67 22,582 Real Estate/Mortgage Funds 37 44 1,965 Other Funds 189 224 5,815 TOTAL 2,869 3,169 213,053 Ontario and City of Toronto based funds lead fundraising 1,893 Ontario based funds in aggregate raised $154.99 billion in total fundraising. Quebec based funds ranked in a distant second with $36.35 billion followed by Manitoba, BC and Alberta based funds which raised $8.08 billion, $7.53 billion, and $1.92 billion respectively. 1,658 City of Toronto based funds raised $149.8 billion, leading 453 Montreal based funds which raised $35.66 billion. Funds based in Winnipeg, Vancouver, Regina, Richmond Hill (Ontario), Calgary and Mississauga (Ontario) rounded up the top cities with $1 billion or more in fundraising. Ontario investors lead investments Although a few of the fund managers continued to raise negligible amount of money from US and international investors, most of money came from Canadian investors. Investors from Ontario invested $129.19 billion which accounted for 61% of the total fundraising. Investors from Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba invested $44.73 billion, $15.20 billon, and $11.18 billion respectively. BlackRock Canada leads mega ($1 billion+) fundraising 31 funds, which raised $1 billion or more, raised a combined $73.84 billion in 2023. Of the 31 funds, 7 Equity Funds raised $31.28 billion, 11 Fixed Income Funds raised $19.18 billion, 7 Money Market Funds raised $13.69 billion, and 6 Balanced Funds raised $9.69 billion. Investment fund manager, BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited, led mega ($1 billion and more) fundraising with 7 funds, raising $33.8 billion in 2023. SLGI Asset Management Inc. (Sun Life) led with 9 funds for $13.95 billion. Fund Manager # Fund(s) $ Millions BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited 7 33,798 SLGI Asset Management Inc. (Sun Life) 9 13,947 Fiera Capital Corporation 2 4,293 CI Investments Inc. 3 3,452 Jarislowsky, Fraser Limited 2 3,224 Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. 1 2,624 NT Global Advisors, Inc. 1 2,576 CIBC Mellon Trust Company 1 2,567 TD Asset Management Inc. 2 2,445 Canso Fund Management Ltd. 1 1,735 I.G. Investment Management, Ltd. 1 1,624 RBC Global Asset Management Inc. 1 1,557 TOTAL ($1B+ Fundraising) 31 73,841 The 2023 investment fund fundraising report and other reports https://www.financings.ca/reports Methodology Data is compiled, verified and corrected, from filings by investment funds with BCSC, OSC, AMF, SEDAR, SEDAR+. Canadian Financings Canadian Financings, a service of CPE Analytics, is Canada's only all financings database covering private (VC, PE, private exempt and non-exempt) and public financings by both Canadian and foreign firms, both debt and equity, IPOs, M&As, fundraisings by both Canadian and foreign, professional VC/PE firms, non-investment fund issuer funds, and investment funds. https://financings.ca CPE Analytics CPE Analytics is a Canadian all financing intelligence provider. We provide comprehensive, verified, and unbiased information and unmatched insights and intelligence on public financings, private financings, initial public offerings (IPOs), M&As, professional investment firm fundraising activities. CPE Analytics is Canada's only provider of comprehensive investment fund fundraising report and analysis. CPE Analytics is the data analytics division of CPE Media & Data Company. https://cpeanalytics.ca CPE Media & Data Company Founded by Canada's most experienced private capital and financing research experts, CPE Media & Data Company is Canada's leading all financing news and data provider. https://cpecompany.ca/ SOURCE CPE Media & Data Company For further information: Ted Liu, CPE Media & Data Company, 647-782-8818, [email protected] Locations across Ontario and Quebec provide convenient access to IKEA experts who help turn planning dreams into a reality. BURLINGTON, ON, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - IKEA Canada is excited to announce the opening of two new Plan and order points in London, Ontario and Lachenaie, Quebec next month. Plan and order points are one of the many ways IKEA Canada is making affordable home furnishing products and services more accessible, allowing customers to get support from IKEA experts to plan, order and purchase complex home furnishing solutions for the kitchen, bedroom, bath and living room. IKEA Canada set to open three new Plan and order points in 2024. (CNW Group/IKEA Canada Limited Partnership) Joining the Wonderland Power Centre located at 3120 Wonderland Road South, the London Plan and order point will open its doors to customers on March 6. The Lachenaie Plan and order point, located at 552 Montee des Pionniers in the Galeries de Lanaudiere shopping centre, will welcome customers on March 20. "Our recent IKEA Life at Home report has shown that up to 50 per cent of Canadians are looking to either move or renovate their homes in the next two years, and we want to support them by providing affordable and inspiring home furnishing solutions that meet the evolving needs of their homes," said Inna Romagnoli, Country Business Development and Transformation Manager, IKEA Canada. "We're excited to bring an elevated planning experience to our London and Lachenaie neighbours and help them take the guess work out of planning the space of their dreams." To continue meeting the growing demand for this personalized service, a new location will also be coming to Barrie, Ontario at the SmartCentres Barrie South shopping centre in summer 2024. The opening of the Barrie location will bring the growing Plan and order point network to a total of eight locations across Canada. Plan and order points offer walk-in and appointment-based planning services where customers can sit down with an IKEA expert to plan complex purchases like kitchen or bedroom storage projects. Products are not available for immediate takeaway at Plan and order points; instead customers can explore and discover a curated selection of IKEA solutions to meet their home furnishing needs. Once their order is placed, customers can have it delivered directly to their homes or to a local IKEA Pick-up point . As a leader in life at home, IKEA has been committed to helping Canadians fulfil the dream of a beautiful and affordable home for 47 years. As part of its ongoing commitment to providing functional, high-quality products and services available at affordable price, IKEA Canada recently announced an investment of $80M to reduce prices on over a thousand products throughout 2024 in response to the rising cost-of-living crisis. Plan and order point customers will be able to enjoy newly reduced prices on iconic IKEA products like the BILLY Bookcase and EKET storage solutions. IKEA Canada is always looking to recruit quality talent as it continues to grow its operations in Canada. To learn more about building a career with IKEA and joining the teams that will bring these new customer meeting points to life, visit IKEA.ca/careers. For more information including store hours at IKEA Plan and order points, visit https://www.ikea.com/ca/en/stores/plan-and-order-point/. ABOUT IKEA CANADA Founded in 1943 in Sweden, IKEA is a leading home furnishing retailer, offering a wide range of well-designed, functional home furnishing products at prices so low that as many people as possible can afford them. IKEA Canada is part of Ingka Group which operates 389 IKEA stores in 31 countries, including 16 in Canada. Last year, IKEA Canada welcomed 28 million visitors to its stores and 166 million visitors to IKEA.ca. IKEA Canada operates business through the IKEA vision - to create a better everyday life for the many people and does so through its local community efforts and sustainability initiatives. For more information on IKEA Canada, please visit IKEA.ca. SOURCE IKEA Canada Limited Partnership For further information: Lisa Huie, PR Leader, IKEA Canada, [email protected] Two years later, she launched The Provincial Freeman and became the first Black woman in North America and the first woman in Canada to publish and edit a newspaper. Published from Windsor, then from Toronto and Chatham, it was an anti-slavery newspaper that advocated for the advancement and equality of Black people. It also promoted Canada as a place for Black people to settle, raise families and contribute as free citizens. To avoid alienating readers accustomed to male editors, Shadd initially kept her name off the masthead. However, she grew tired of the assumption that she was a man and in 1854 revealed her identity. In 1863, she moved back to the United States where she continued to build her reputation as a trailblazer. The second Black American woman to obtain a law degree, Shadd became a lawyer and a prominent suffragist. Shadd's lifelong fight for equal rights continued a family legacy. Her father, Abraham Doras Shadd, was active in the Underground Railroad and was featured on Canada Post's first Black History Month stamp issue in 2009. It is believed that this is the first time in Canadian postal history (outside of the Royal Family) that a father and daughter have each appeared on a stamp. About the stamp The stamp was designed by Underline Studio and illustrated by Natasha Cunningham. The central image is the only known photograph of Shadd. The lower image is a reproduction of The Provincial Freeman's masthead, recreated to include both of Canada's official languages. The metallic-inked black-eyed Susans represent resilience, encouragement, justice and motivation. Printed by Colour Innovations, the issue includes a booklet of six Permanent domestic rate stamps and an Official First Day Cover. The cancel site is Chatham, Ont., where Mary Ann Shadd spent most of her years while residing in Canada. Stamps and collectibles are available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across Canada. For links to images of the stamps and other products, Canada Post magazine and other resources: External folder with high-resolution images (access). YouTube video (watch video). Canada Post magazine article (read magazine). Social media platforms Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Trademark of the Canada Post Corporation SOURCE Canada Post For further information: Media Relations: 613-734-8888, [email protected] Starting Feb. 27, embark on an epic journey at McDonald's with the new Savoury Chili sauce, manga-inspired packaging and original episodic shorts TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 /CNW/ - For years, anime fans have been making McDonald's-inspired "WcDonald's" restaurants a part of anime's most memorable movies and shows. Now, in collaboration with some of the biggest names in anime, WcDonald's will make the move from fiction to real life. Beginning in Canada on Feb. 27, we're building on our fans' vision and imagination by unleashing the WcDonald's universe in our restaurants and beyond, with a special McNuggets sauce, manga-inspired packaging, and episodic shorts. Welcome to WcDonald's (CNW Group/McDonald's Canada) Fans can animate their taste buds with our Savoury Chili WcDonalds Sauce, available for a limited time at participating restaurants (CNW Group/McDonald's Canada) "At McDonald's, we're constantly looking to our guests as a source of inspiration," said Alyssa Buetikofer, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited. "The WcDonald's universe is a reflection of our fans' creativity and imagination, and we are thrilled to bring it to Canada in our restaurants and beyond." A Sauce that Packs a Punch Fans can animate their taste buds with our Savoury Chili WcDonald's Sauce, available for a limited time at participating restaurants. Mirroring the bold, dynamic spirit of your favourite anime heroes, the sauce pairs perfectly with an order of 10-piece "WcNuggets" (our fan-favourite Chicken McNuggets) or on the side of any of your go-to menu items. Manga Packaging and More from Acky Bright McDonald's has teamed up with iconic Japanese manga artist/illustrator Acky Bright to design custom WcDonald's packaging that will take you deeper into the world of WcDonald's with every meal. For a limited time, fans will receive manga-inspired take out bags featuring WcDonald's Crew characters at participating restaurants sketched by Acky himself. "I had a great time partnering with McDonald's to help make WcDonald's a reality for manga fans who have a genuine love for the brand," said Acky Bright. "From the details of the diverse Crew characters to the manga plot itself, I loved being able to use my artwork to bring to life the dynamic, vibrant world of WcDonald's for people around the world." The First-Ever Official WcDonald's Anime McDonald's has partnered with legendary animation house Studio Pierrot to produce the first official WcDonald's anime. Four episodic shorts will take fans into the flavourful world of WcDonald's, where a story about the WcDonald's Sauce and WcNuggets unfolds each week. A new short will drop weekly starting the week of February 26 in tandem with new manga on mcdonalds.ca. The shorts will honour four of anime's biggest subgenres - Action, Romance, Mecha and Fantasy. The Race to WcDonald's : A rivalry strong enough to withstand the test of time as our two heroes embark on an epic race to WcDonald's. : A rivalry strong enough to withstand the test of time as our two heroes embark on an epic race to WcDonald's. Love from Across the Booth : Our two protagonists discover the WcDonald's Sauce and WcNuggets aren't the only perfect pairing. : Our two protagonists discover the WcDonald's Sauce and WcNuggets aren't the only perfect pairing. WcNuggets Space Frontier 3000 : A team of WcDonald's pilots must protect the last WcNugget against an ominous force. : A team of WcDonald's pilots must protect the last WcNugget against an ominous force. The Wisdom of the Sauce : Three women are transported to a distant land to unravel the mystery surrounding the elusive sauce before it's gone forever. On Feb. 27, get ready for an anime-fueled adventure with, "Welcome to WcDonald's, may I take your order?" About McDonald's Canada In 1967, Canada welcomed the first McDonald's restaurant to Richmond, British Columbia. Today, McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited has become part of the Canadian fabric, serving more than one million guests every day. In both franchised and corporate-owned restaurants, nearly 100,000 people are employed from coast to coast to coast, and more than 90 per cent of McDonald's 1,400 Canadian restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent franchisees. Of the almost $1 billion spent on food, more than 85 per cent is purchased from suppliers in Canada. For more information on McDonald's Canada, visit mcdonalds.ca. SOURCE McDonald's Canada For further information: Canada Impact, McDonald's Canada, [email protected] BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijani fitness trainer Kamil Zeynalli, detained at Moscow airport at Armenia's request, has been freed, reliable sources told Trend. Lawyer Alakbar Garayev said that Zeynalli will return to Azerbaijan today. A copy of the charges against Kamil Zeynalli was published in social networks. According to the document, Kamil Zeynalli is charged under Articles 149.1.1, 135.1.1, 135.6.1, 135.11.1, 140.2.2 and 147.1 of the Armenian Criminal Code: Article 135. Crimes against humanity - 135.1.1 - murder - 135.6.1. - torture 135.11.1 - other inhuman acts causing serious harm to one's health or severe suffering; Article 140. War crimes using prohibited means of warfare - 140.2.2. Ordering or threatening with an order to leave no one alive during an international armed conflict or non-international armed conflict; 147.1. Recruiting mercenaries, organizing training camps for mercenaries, training or learning skills to work as mercenaries, financing mercenaries, using mercenaries in armed conflicts or military operations, or participating as a mercenary in armed conflicts, hostilities, or concerted acts of violence. Article 149. Aggression - 149.1. 1. The planning, preparation, initiation, or execution of aggression by an individual who directs, oversees, or supervises the political or military operations of a state. To note, Zeynalli reported about the detention in Moscow on his Instagram account. He claimed that he was detained and taken to the police station at Moscow's Domodedovo airport on his way back to Baku. He noted that according to the Russian police officers, he was detained due to the fact that Armenia had put him on the international wanted list. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Elon Musk is currently expecting Starship to have its next orbital launch attempt in mid-March 2024. There are reports of several possible new SpaceX launch facilities. There could be a new SLC-50 or SLC-49 instead of or including the SLC-37 facility. The US Department of the Air Force is preparing an environmental impact statement (EIS) regarding Starship launches from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The review is required by the National Environmental Policy Act for any major action, like construction of a new launch complex. The study would examine the environmental impacts of converting Space Launch Complex (SLC) 37 at Cape Canaveral into a Starship launch complex. The new possible launch facilities are all around Cape Canaveral in Florida. The Space Force Starship EIS site describes the proposals for new launch facilities. SLC-37 was built in the 1960s for the Saturn 1 and 1B rockets, was later converted by Boeing to host launches of the Delta 4. Delta 4 will soon retire, with the final Delta 4 Heavy launch scheduled for as soon as March. There are no plans by United Launch Alliance to continue use of the site by its new Vulcan rocket, which launches from nearby SLC-41. The EIS will examine one alternative option, which involves building a new launch complex designated SLC-50 for Starship. That would be located between SLC-37 and the next pad to the north, SLC-40, used by SpaceXs Falcon 9. As is typical with such environmental studies, the EIS will include a no action alternative where no Starship launch sites are built at either location. There is little property available elsewhere at Cape Canaveral for additional launch sites. Weve reallocated all of our launch pads, said Space Force Col. Shannon DaSilva, deputy director of operations for Space Systems Command, during a presentation at the annual meeting of the Global Spaceport Alliance Jan. 29. We dont have much more land to give. SpaceX currently has one Starship launch pad at its Starbase site in South Texas, and Elon Musk said at a January event that the company plans to build a second launch pad there. In December 2021, KSC announced it was preparing to start an environmental review to construct a Starship launch complex at a location at the northern end of KSC property designated LC-49. The SLC-49 study was put on hold and is not being actively pursued. The National Chairman of the Labour Party Julius Abure has been arrested by the police in Benin City, Edo State over allegations of attempted murder. We gathered that Julius Abure was arrested following a petition by the partys former Youth Leader, Eragbe Anselm Aphimia. Images and visuals emerged on social media, showing Abure seated on the floor before he was taken away in a vehicle by the policemen. NE reports that Abure faces allegations of embezzling about N3billion of party funds. Abures arrest comes just a day before the partys primary election in Edo state. Party officials are yet to speak on the matter The CBN could be looking to block Nigerians from using crypto websites to combat the weakening of the naira. While this is unconfirmed a source close to the matter said the apex bank could use telcos to block access to those websites and apps in Nigeria. This is coming after crypto platform, Binance suspended P2P activities yesterday, February 20, 2024. Users of the platform took to X to complain about the unavailability of USDT buy ads on the platform. Only one person Selling dollars on binance at the moment. Everybody holding their dollars(USDT) like gold pic.twitter.com/TRY0pBuQOT SUOAZ M.D (@SuoazOfficial) February 20, 2024 In response, Binance released asaying it is "dedicated to providing a market-driven, fraud-free, and manipulation-free platform for users," not giving a reason for Suspending crypto activities on the platform. It, however, said it was working hand in hand with local authorities, lawmakers, and regulators to be compliant. Interestingly, an X user, with username Brother Bernard, said the CBN, National Security Agency (NSA), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are working with Binance to set a cap for USDT traders. The CBN, in conjunction with the NSA, EFCC and other govt parastatals allegedly ordered Binance to set a cap on traders selling USDT. You can no longer sell your OWN tokens for above 1802/$. This is why nobody had been able to buy tokens today. I dont know what they aim to pic.twitter.com/KIvZdfelo7 Brother Bernard (@MikaelCBernard) February 20, 2024 In another statement released today, February 21, 2024, Binance explained why it suspended P2P trading on the platform. It said its system automatically pauses when there's significant currency movement. According to the company, this feature was put in place to prevent abuse of the system. It also revealed that there was a temporary suppression yesterday that reached its system limit and necessary adjustments needed to be made. However, many consider this move by Binance as a collaboration with the CBN to control their trading, reducing their trust in the platform. There have been a number of posts on X listing alternatives to Binance saying the platform cannot be trusted. Leading aspirants in last Saturdays All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary, including Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Lucky Imasuen, Senator Monday Okpebholo and General Charles Airhiavbere have demanded the removal of the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma as Chairman of the Election Committee. The aspirants, in a joint statement issued Wednesday ahead of Thursdays ordered rerun of the governorship primary, said Uzodinma did not observe the minimum requirements for compliance with the relevant provisions of the laws and regulations guiding the election as provided both in the Electoral Act and in the APC constitution. They said whatever was responsible for Uzodinmas flagrant disregard for due process could also be repeated during the election process. The aspirants said, We strongly believe that whatever was responsible for his flagrant disregard for due process and unusual hasty declaration of unconfirmed fictitious results of the primaries outside the designated collation centre may not have abated from his mind, and therefore may be repeated if given the opportunity to play the same role as chairman in the process. In the circumstance, we are calling on Mr. President to kindly use his good offices to replace Senator Hope Uzodinma with any other respected member of our great party, as chairman whom the President strongly believes will comply with the law, maintain internal democracy, protect and defend the integrity and goodwill of the President which he has attained over the years that endeared him to both national and international stakeholders. The separatist Indigenous People of Biafra has urged people in the South-East not to join the festering protests by Nigerians against the current economic hardship in the country under the government of President Bola Tinubu. The separatist group warned that such protests must not take place in the southeastern states because Igbo had long lost interest in Nigeria and were only waiting for an opportunity to leave. The group made the claim in a statement on Tuesday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful. Powerful warned that anyone who organised any protest against economic hardship in the South-East would put Ndigbo in danger. The country has in recent times witnessed increasing agitation and protests over the rising cost of living and skyrocketing prices of foodstuffs. However, the apex socio-cultural Igbo organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Monday, called on the Igbo people not to join any such protests against the Tinubu-led Federal Government. Ohanaeze urged Nigerians to exercise patience with Tinubu. In a statement on Tuesday, IPOB spokesman cautions the people of Biafra not to join any protest against hunger in Nigeria in any South-East territory. Powerful said, The current hardship in Nigeria should be the concern of Nigerians, not Biafrans. Biafrans are no longer interested in the affairs of Nigeria. Biafrans were abused, intimidated, beaten, killed and denied voting rights during the election of this present government. Ndigbo were told to wait, that it was not their turn to rule. Anyone who organises any protest against economic hardship in Biafraland will put Biafrans in danger. During the #EndSARS protest, the Federal Government accused Ndigbo of attempting to destroy Nigeria with violence. We dont want such profiling and targeting to repeat because of Ndigbos participation in any Nigerian mass protest. Ndigbo should leave the current economic hardship in the contraption called Nigeria for Nigerians to deal with because this hardship is what God Almighty has in store for Nigeria for the crimes they have committed against Biafrans between 1967 to 1970 and up to date. We understand that Ndigbo are equally affected by the economic hardship arising from the reckless and thoughtless economic policies of the government, but God is still seeing Biafrans through. We are worried about the suffering of other tribes, but there is nothing we can do. The current situation is why Biafrans are fighting for freedom. Nevertheless, we must apply wisdom. The group further said anyone or group that wants to organise a protest for Nigerias hardship should kindly go to the northern or western part of the country and stage such protests there. Our region is battling the state-sponsored insecurity, kidnappings, and killings by the Federal Governments agencies and agents, including terrorists. We have much on our hands to do. We will not allow anyone or any group to use the arrangement of protests to import more agents of destabilisation into our territory, it said. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has disclosed that each state governor has been allocated an extra N30 billion to address the challenges of food scarcity and hardships confronting Nigerians. Akpabio said each state should properly utilize the money towards ensuring the availability of food. Speaking on the floor of the senate, Akapbio said: I must say that unverified report has it that each of the state government in the last few months received additional N30 billion from Federal Inland Revenue Service, outside their normal allocation from the federation account to assist them in ameliorating the food situation. We believe that every state government should utilise the funds so received towards ensuring that food is available. The current economic hardship has led to a hike in the prices of foodstuffs across the country. The shortage of foodstuffs was also linked to the hoarding by some people and illegal smuggling to neighbouring countries. Recall that Vice President Kashim Shettima had disclosed how security operatives discovered 32 illegal routes being used to smuggle foodstuffs and other items to neighbouring countries from Nigeria. Shettima said security agents intercepted 45 trucks smuggling maize to neighbouring countries. He noted that the price of maize came down by N10,000. The price of maize allegedly came down from N60,000 to N50,000 when the trucks were intercepted. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijani trainer Kamil Zeynalli will return to his homeland today, the trainer's advocate Alakbar Garayev said, Trend reports. "Russia has shown humanity despite Armenia's putting Azerbaijani trainer Kamil Zeynalli on the international wanted list and accusing him of serious crimes. With the assistance of the Azerbaijani government, Zeynalli will return to his homeland today," he said. Earlier, Zeynalli was detained at Moscow's Domodedovo airport at Armenia's request. A copy of the charges against Zeynalli was published in social networks. According to the document, he was charged under Articles 149.1.1, 135.1.1, 135.6.1, 135.11.1, 140.2.2 and 147.1 of the Armenian Criminal Code: Article 135. Crimes against humanity - 135.1.1 - murder - 135.6.1. - torture 135.11.1 - other inhuman acts causing serious harm to one's health or severe suffering; Article 140. War crimes using prohibited means of warfare - 140.2.2. Ordering or threatening with an order to leave no one alive during an international armed conflict or non-international armed conflict; 147.1. Recruiting mercenaries, organizing training camps for mercenaries, training or learning skills to work as mercenaries, financing mercenaries, using mercenaries in armed conflicts or military operations, or participating as a mercenary in armed conflicts, hostilities, or concerted acts of violence. Article 149. Aggression - 149.1. 1. The planning, preparation, initiation, or execution of aggression by an individual who directs, oversees, or supervises the political or military operations of a state. To note, Zeynalli reported about the detention in Moscow on his Instagram account. He claimed that he was detained and taken to the police station at Moscow's Domodedovo airport on his way back to Baku. He noted that according to the Russian police officers, he was detained due to the fact that Armenia had put him on the international wanted list. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Benue State Security Council has given a two-week ultimatum to people operating Open Grazing within the state to comply with the States Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Law. They also called on herders/invaders to immediately leave the state and return to where they came from, warning those who invited them to immediately desist from the act. These were part of the resolutions reached at the end of the State Security Council Meeting held at the Benue State Government House, Makurdi, on Tuesday. Briefing newsmen shortly after the meeting, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, said the Council also constituted a seven-man committee to ensure the enforcement of the ultimatum, which began on Wednesday. Kula called on the good people of the state to remain calm and security conscious as the state government was making efforts to secure the lives and property of the people. He said the State Security Council tasked security agencies, traditional rulers and the general public to report for prosecution any person in the habit of collaborating and inviting the armed herders into the state. Kula urged Benue people to remain calm as efforts were being put in place by the government to address the hardship and looming food insecurity across the nation. Protest erupted at the Ilorin Zonal Command office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday over the continued detention of a former governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed. Ahmeds detention at the EFCC Ilorin office entered a third day on Wednesday. We gathered that Ahmed is being grilled over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as Kwara State governor. Wednesdays protest by Ahmeds supporters, which commenced in the morning, ended at about 12:23 pm after an EFCC official, Micheal Nzekwe, addressed the protesters. Details coming There was a mild drama on Tuesday as the Senate resolved to revisit the N30 trillion Ways and Means it approved for the Federal Government under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the details of which it said were never provided for scrutiny. Specifically, the Red Chamber alleged that reckless spending of the overdraft collected from the Godwin Emefiele-led Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, largely accounted for the food and security crises presently facing the country. It consequently resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to carry out a thorough investigation on how the N30 trillion was spent by the immediate past government since details of such spending were deliberately not made available to the National Assembly. The ad-hoc committee, which will be constituted on Wednesday, will also probe the N10 trillion expended on the Anchor Borrowers Scheme, the $2.4 billion forex transaction out of the $7 billion obligation made for that purpose, as well as other intervention programmes. The Senate resolutions followed the consideration of the report of its joint committees on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions; Finance; National Planning; Agriculture, and Appropriations, on the state of the economy after interactive sessions with the Federal Government economic management team. The report consideration in plenary on Tuesday was very stormy and full of accusations and counter-accusations by senators on why and how the N22.7 trillion Ways and Means was passed by the 9th Senate in May 2023 and an additional N7.2 trillion passed on December 30, 2023, by the 10th Senate. The Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South), in his contribution, blamed the Senate for approving the request without details from then-President Muhammadu Buhari. When the N22.7 trillion Ways and Means approval request was brought before the 9th Senate, I insisted that details of spendings made with it, should be provided before approval, but the Senate then, went ahead and approved it, he said. He, was, however, countered by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, who said the decision taken then, was a collective one with the caveat that the executive should provide details later, which was, however, not provided. In his remarks, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said, as recommended by the committee and supported by most of the Senators, a thorough probe must be carried out on the N22.7 trillion Ways and Means approved in May 2023 by the 9th Senate, which later increased to N30 trillion, with the passage of the N7.2 trillion accrued interest forwarded for passage in December 2023. The food and security crises confronting the nation now, are traceable to the way and manner in which the said ways and means were given, collected, and spent. Details of such spending must be submitted for required scrutiny and possible remedies because what Nigerians want now, is food on their table, which must be given. Other recommendations made by the committee on the need for a thorough investigation of the N10 trillion Anchor Borrowers Programme and other intervention programmes running into billions of dollars must be investigated. But as rightly recommended by the joint committee, security agencies should, as a matter of national urgency, combat all forms of insecurity across the country for farmers to access their farms for required food production, which is highly needed in the country now, Akpabio said. A New York man was arrested in Medellin, Colombia, and charged in a fatal shooting last year at a home in Englewood, authorities said Wednesday. Joshua Alvarado, 29, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of Jason Hidalgo, 35, last fall, according to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella. Hidalgo, of the Bronx, New York, was found dead of multiple gunshot wounds on Sept. 30 in a home on Mevan Avenue. Englewood police received a 911 call reporting the shooting shortly before 6 a.m. and found a woman who led them into the home, where Hidalgo was found dead on the floor, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Police said in the affidavit the shooter broke through a sliding glass door in the rear of the home and stole the womans cellphone at some point during the crimes. The offense involved domestic violence, police stated in the affidavit. An investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit and the Englewood Police Department was initiated and revealed that Joshua Alvarado shot Jason Hidalgo and fled the state, the prosecutor said in a news release. Investigators determined Alvarado fled the United States in the days following the murder and tracked him down in Colombia, where he was arrested on Saturday with help from the U.S. Marshals Service and Colombian National Police, Musella said. In addition to murder charges, Alvarado is charged with second-degree armed burglary and several weapons offenses. Alvarado remained in custody in Colombia Wednesday pending extradition back to New Jersey, according to the prosecutors office. Attorney information for Alvarado was not immediately available. 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. A Pennsylvania sheriffs officer was arrested through an investigation into child pornography being stored digitally at a Jersey Shore vacation home, authorities said. Police located explicit material allegedly belonging to James C. Buckley on his iCloud account following a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the Cape May County Prosecutors Office said Wednesday. Buckley, 57, is a member of the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. Hes listed as a Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania resident who owns property in Wildwood, the prosecutors office said. He was taken to Cape May County jail and charged with endangering the welfare of a child over the content, authorities said. Attorney information for Buckley was not available Wednesday. The Montgomery County Sheriffs Office said Wednesday it learned of the charges on Tuesday, and immediately suspended Buckley under agency policy. As an agency committed to upholding the law and maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability, we take these allegations extremely seriously, the sheriffs office officials said in a statement. Cape May County authorities alleged that Buckley both spread and stored sex material through the cloud service. Investigators became aware of the content in March 2020, according to an affidavit of probable cause. While meeting with investigators Tuesday, Buckley admitted emailing the content to himself, intending to store it through the cloud system, the document states. Buckley said during questioning he accessed the images through the social media website Tumblr, finding them at a point during the COVID-19 pandemic, the affidavit states. Buckley faces upward of 10 years in state prison if convicted. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. A Cumberland County resident shot and killed an alleged home invader Monday before he was charged with with possessing ghost guns, police said. New Jersey State Police responded to a residence on Old Deerfield Pike in Upper Deerfield around 7:15 p.m. for a report of a burglary in progress with a gunshot victim, according to a police spokesman. Resident Kevin Lucero, 24, shot one of two people who forced their way into the residence, police said in an affidavit of probable cause filed with the charges. The gunshot victim was struck once in the torso and was found in a downstairs hallway outside of a bedroom, police said. A splinter of wood that is believed to be part of the cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified is one of more than 100 sacred objects that will be on display Saturday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Oratory in Montclair. The exhibit, which runs from noon to 7 p.m., includes a piece of cloth that is said to be from the veil that Mary, the mother of Jesus, wore at the crucifixion, and particle from the crown of thorns. There are also relics of many of the saints among them, Pope John Paul II, Mother Cabrini and Padre Pio that will be available for veneration. All items will be available for veneration in the church hall. It is a unique moment, said Rev. Giandomenico M. Flora, the rector of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Oratory. [The exhibit] will give opportunities for you to connect with many of your most revered saints. The oratory is at 94 Pine Street in Montclair. The exhibit is a big moment for Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a church that was established in 1907 that the Archdiocese of Newark shut down in 2016. Under pressure from parishioners, Our Lady of Mount Carmel reopened six years later, not as a church, but as an oratory an offshoot where Mass is said, and all the sacraments are offered. The relics being put on display are part of the personal collection of Joseph Santoro, a Pennsylvania resident who has made it his mission to rescue sacred objects from online auction sites on the internet. Santoro said he brought his collection to Our Lady of Mount Carmel because it would help the oratory, which is trying to grow its membership and will be selling religious articles for the veneration. I dont take a penny for this, said Santoro, 40, who works at a delegate for International Crusade of Holy Relics, a non-profit that gathers up sacred objects for display that would otherwise be bartered and sold online. It is something that I enjoy doing. Many relics are believed to date to the Dark Ages and the early days of Christianity. Santoro said when he buys a relic, he relies on documentation and serial numbers provided by The Vatican to make sure the object is real. Anything that I buy is 100% authentic, Santoro said. Joseph Santoro.Courtesy Joseph Santoro Santoro doesnt know how much hes spent in his 20 years of collecting sacred objects, but said its enough to buy a house and a Porsche. I dont put a price on these things because theyre treasures, Santoro said. Unfortunately, some people do. Santoro said his goal is bring the relics back to the faithful. Many Catholics believe that if an object touches a relic, then that object, too, is blessed. Many people pray to the saints and asked to be healed. Santoro believes in miracles, although he said, its not magic. Its a matter of faith, he said, adding that he knows cancer patients who have attended venerations and were later healed. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. A woman was arrested Wednesday morning after a man was found stabbed to death inside a residence in Hunterdon County, authorities said. Domonique Preston, 45, of Raritan Township, was charged with murder and weapons-related offenses in the death of 66-year-old Steven Spivey, also from Raritan Township, according to a news release from the Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office. Both Preston and Spivey resided in the home but the nature of their relationship is still undetermined, said Timothy Drew, chief of detectives and spokesman for the prosecutors office. The investigation began at 1:40 a.m. on Wednesday when officers responded to a 911 call for a reported stabbing at a residence in the 100 block of Manchester Road in Raritan Township, according to a news release. Police found Spivey deceased from an apparent stab wound. Officers arrested Preston at the scene. She was taken to the Warren County Correctional Center pending her first court appearance. The Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office has filed a motion to detain Preston pre-trial. Attorney information was not immediately available. No other information was released Wednesday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com. Two legends will be taking over one stage for a set of tour dates this summer. Carlos Santana and Counting Crows will begin their joint Oneness Tour on June 14 in Hollywood, Fla. and will wrap up on Sept. 2 in Phoenix. While on tour, the rock band and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitarist will perform two shows in New Jersey; one on June 21 in Camden at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion and one on July 19 in Holmdel at PNC Bank Arts. Fans can expect to hear hits from Santanas Supernatural album and music from Counting Crows Butter Miracle, Suite One album. How to get Santana tickets in 2024 Tickets to see Santana and Counting Crows live are available on StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketNetwork, TicketCity and Ticketmaster. The cheapest ticket we could find for their Camden show, before fees, is $35 on StubHub and for their Holmdel show the cheapest ticket is $51 on Vivid Seats. First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout. A complete list of Santana and Counting Crows Oneness Tour dates is available here. Upcoming tours heading to PNC Bank Arts Center in 2024 Santana and Counting Crows are not the only artists performing at PNC Bank Arts Center this summer. Here are a few more shows you do not want to miss: Bret Michaels, Creed, Avril Lavigne, Bush and Train. 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 police officer involved in a crash in Long Branch last summer that left the passenger in a car driven by an armed burglary suspect dead will not be criminally charged, a grand jury ruled following an investigation by the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office. Officers from the Long Branch Police Department responded to a 911 call shortly before 4 a.m. on Aug. 14 after a caller reported a break-in at a home involving an armed person, according to a statement from the office. Long Branch Patrolman Lucas Brito was involved in a crash with a car that was believed to be driven by a suspect in the robbery in the area of MacArthur and Elmwood avenues, the office said. The cars passenger, Tracee Blount, 38, of Long Branch, was seriously injured in the crash and was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she was pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m., authorities said. The driver, Altonia Williams, 45, of Long Branch, escaped the wreck and was later found hidden in a bush with a loaded gun. Authorities said Williams was high on marijuana at the time. He was taken into custody and transported to Jersey Shore Medical University Center for treatment, investigators said. Williams was charged by the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office and later indicted on multiple offenses including armed robbery, aggravated assault, eluding, vehicular homicide, aggravated manslaughter, unlawful possession of a weapon and other offenses. Brito was also taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries from the crash and later released. The incident sparked an investigation by the attorney generals office, which becomes involved anytime a person dies in an encounter with police. The office also released video recordings and 911 calls last year that were related to the fatal crash. The findings of the investigation were then presented to a grand jury to determine if the evidence supported the return of an indictment against Brito. In this case, the jury voted on Feb. 5 that he should not be criminally charged, the office said. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Press Release February 21, 2024 Sen. Pia Cayetano statements Senate Blue Ribbon hearing on Dirty Ashtray Senate Blue Ribbon hearing on Dirty Ashtray Transcript Question and Answer (part 1) ===== I have a number of questions, but I'll hold it for later because I'd like to hear the others. But I was talking to my staff so I just wanna be sure I heard you right. So you said towards the end, which is not part of your speech, that you spoke to all the members and your parting message is, let's stop illicit trade of tobacco? --- I'll give you a chance to elaborate on that because it kind of strikes me the wrong way if your only takeaway after all this is the illicit trade of tobacco, which I understand to be in connection with the smuggling of tobacco. But when you now added the access of minors, then I understand where it's coming from. So maybe later you can elaborate on that because I'd like to hear more about that. Let me recognize the presence of Sen. Tolentino, our former Chairperson of the Committee on Blue Ribbon. Sir, do you have any statements? --- So I'll call on now DFA, USec. Charles Jose, Office of the Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations. Are you the one speaking on behalf of DFA? Sorry, can I understand, either of you can answer. Ano ba, do you have co-heads, or are you the sole head, because I saw in one document, there's co-heads or what, how does it work? --- Usec. Jose, we had asked for your position papers to be submitted earlier. We did not get anything from your office. We have always had full cooperation from DFA because we have other issues, which the Blue Ribbon Secretariat is handling, and DFA has been very cooperative. Pero with this issue, ngayon ko lang naririnig yang statement niyo, so nagkakandarapa ako copying your statements so that I can make logical and cohesive... I can frame my thoughts to ask you questions. --- Well, if it's last night, then probably ngayong umaga pa lang, and I don't have anything. At least, it would have been nice if, at the very least, Sec. Guevara, at least I could follow and make notes. So ngayon, I will have you repeat some of your statements because I am not capable of, hindi ako natuto mag-stenography nung ako ay nag-aaral. So may I just request next time for all the resource persons to just cooperate with us? May I just ask you to repeat that line towards the latter part of your statement where you said something like, something about sorry to disappoint some groups, but there is a lack of understanding on the realities of... Can you just repeat that statement? --- This advocacy, while meritorious, understandably falls short in understanding the more complex and nuance realities underlying Philippine legislation. I just got this now so I will digest this a little bit and get back to you later. Thank you. Before I call on [DOH], because I don't wanna lose my train of thought. You mentioned... I do not see it in your written speech so I do not know if you made your own changes on the spot, but in my notes, you said something about a balanced position with health and the livelihood of the farmers. May I know from the Department of Agriculture... Is the Department of Agriculture here? Wala. O sige, I defer to you, Atty. Guevara if you'd like to answer this, or NTA. Does anybody debate the data that the poorest sector in our society are the farmers and the fisherfolks? They are the poorest, and as far as I know, their plight has not been in any way, their life has not improved. Are the tobacco farmers better off because of all these so-called interventions and support that I am hearing from you with this balanced approach? Can any of you present data to me that shows that this balanced approach that you keep on, dalawa pa lang ang speaker, and I keep hearing balanced approach, okay. Anong napala ng ating magigiting na farmers, tobacco farmers specifically, dito sa balanced approach? Who would like to answer that question? Because you stand in the way of the progress of health because of the balanced approach, that's basically what you are saying. Yun ang nuances na sinasabi niyo, Usec. Charles. The nuance is that we cannot fully support health programs because we have to balance the livelihood of farmers. So ikinabuti ba nila? --- I am very familiar with that [Vape] law because I was the only person who actively fought against that law, and Sen. Joel also was very vocal in arguing against some provisions. There was no discussion on what that balanced policy means. So for the record, you can check, there's no discussion on what balanced policy means. So I cannot glean anything from that when you say that it is referred to in that law, just for your information, because I was involved... So NTA, would you like to tell me, just to keep it short, I know you are all busy, I do not intend to keep you here all day. Are the Filipino tobacco farmers better off than other farmers dahil sa binibigay na suporta na paulit-ulit kong naririnig? Mas maganda ba ang kalagayan ng ating Filipino tobacco farmers? And please do not tell me how much ang nabigay. Tell me does the data show na hindi na sila impoverished, hindi na sila naghihirap, hindi na sila minimum wage. Mamaya ka pa. If you don't wanna answer that, I don't need you to answer that... It's up to you, you can say something or you don't have to. It's your call. Would you like me to call on you later? Okay so ang next natin is DOH. --- Thank you very much for that. Just to complete the DOH family, let's go to Food and Drug Administration, Dr. Samuel Zacate, the Director General. --- Next would be the Department of Trade and Industry, USec. Ana Sanches. --- I'll revert to you, DTI, I am just checking on something. Let's now go to the National Tobacco Administration. Before you proceed with your statement, can you please tell us who are the members of the NTA? Under the law, who makes up the NTA? --- Sino tinatanong niyo? Sino tinatanong niyo? Sino nga? Ako? Yung kasamahan mo? So ang tanong mo is, ano exactly? Kasi baka magustuhan ko yung tanong mo, ako magtatanong para sayo. Ano yung gitna? [Balanced policy] or? Pakiulit na lang. Anong side? I want to understand your statement kaya kita tinatanong. --- That's your statement, ma'am. So you should be able to explain it to me. Ano nga yung isang banda? So ang panawagan mo ay kung tayo ay sa gitna o saan? Ano yung isang banda? [NTA: Magsama-sama po tayo.] Hindi, hindi yan ang sinasabi mo, eh. --- So kung hindi ka clear sa pinapanawagan... Do you want to say something? --- Huwag mo na akong basahan. Sabihan mo na lang ako kung ano ang panawagan mo. [NTA: Retracted ko na po ang statement] So binabawi mo na yun? Hindi na yun ang panawagan mo? Ano na yung panawagan mo? --- Kaya ko kasi tinanong kung ano ang panawagan mo, kasi yung question ko, and again, I always defer to the head of delegation, can you tell me, all of the agencies that were present are represented here today, is that correct, except for agriculture, tama ba? I have a copy now of his letter... "sincere regrets. I would like to assure that representatives from the NTA will attend on my behalf." Okay. sige. So let's go to this, the representatives of the delegation. How many were you? [Atty Guevara: about 34] 34. Do you recognize that you were the biggest delegation there, bigger than China and Russia? You were also surprised? Who chose the members of delegation, Sec. Guevara? [Atty Guevara: Listed before I came on board] So would you be able to tell me, before you came on board then, who was organizing this, who was putting the group together, because it was 34. I mean, wow. Madami tayong pera para magpadala ng delegation. I was very patient listening to the speeches but I am taking a break now to just ask pointed questions because I want to know what each one did in participating there. Ang pagkaintindi ko kay Admin. Sanchez, first time niya, marami siyang natutunan. Yun ba ang reason kaya tayo pumupunta doon sa health conference? Kasi as far as I know, kaya I was referring to IAC NTA is because member diyan ang Department of Health, so the Department of Health is supposed to represent you na when it comes to health concerns. So can you elaborate? [Atty Guevara: First thought was importance of COP10; that's why we had to have all agencies involved in health] For the record, Sec. Abalos called me and he told me candidly that he does not know anything about it. So I'll hear from DILG later kung ano ang role niyo dun, because that's his candid response to me when he received my invitation. [Atty Guevara: DILG was critical in chain because they deal with LGUs, big part in preventing sale of vapes to minors] I understand... If you were to trim this body, who would you take out? [Atty Guevara: NTA] Nothing prevents you from meeting all of them here in the Philippines, right? Wala naman problema na mag-usap kayo lahat dito, mag-sampung meeting kayo, paulit-ulit kayo, pero yung sumama pa lahat doon at yun nga, later on we'll hear from the advocates, I am sorry, Administrator Sanchez, you do not recognize the importance of the Dirty Ashtray award, I am sorry na para sayo, naninindigan ka na walang significance yun. Pero para sa akin, and I've represented our country many times over the last 20 years. It matters to me what other people think of our country. It matters to me that they respect our policies. It matters to me na pinapahalagahan nila ang pinaninindigan natin. So I am sorry that you do not see the importance of that. Maybe because it's your first time. I don't know. Anyway, you know what, I will not ask you to continue answering my question. More important for me is what do you think is a reasonable size delegation for future purposes? [Atty Guevara: when we drafted PH statement, everyone was present] But you recognize it's a health conference, ha? And you recognize that this whole-of-government approach is a tobacco lobby? You don't have to answer that. But it's my statement. Because it is a tobacco lobby. For all of you who will pretend ignorance, who will feign ignorance, it is a tobacco lobby. Because I have asked all of you, I have given you many times to answer my question. Gumanda ba buhay ng ating mga magsasaka, ng ating tobacco farmers dahil sa inyong balanced policy? Gumanda ba? Wala naman sumagot. Nagbigay naman ako ng chance sa inyo paulit-ulit. Tapos, nakinig ako sa kahaba-habang statement gn NTA, for the record, sa iba kong hearing, hindi ako nagpapabasa ng statement. Because I expect the statements to be given to me ahead of time, I will read it before I come here and then you will just give me highlights of your statement. But because it is my first Blue Ribbon hearing, I was giving all of you the full, complete chance to tell me whatever you want to tell me and I am repeating my questions. Ang sinabi naman ni Admin. Sanchez, pasama ng pasama ng pasama ang kalagayan ng mga magsasaka natin. So ano ba natulong ng balanced policy? Dahil dumami kayo pumunta doon, gaganda ba kalagayan ng ating magsasaka? Dahil ba na-delay ang proseso ng pag-approve ng Article 9 and 10 dahil dito sa working group, expert group, it's very technical for the ordinary citizen to understand kasi proseso ito, and I have so much respect for the DFA kasi napakadetalyado nitong mga prosesong ito, pero ang punto lang naman nito, it is a declaration of the contents, yung laman ng mga produktong binebenta natin sa kabataan, hindi sa kabataan pero napupunta sa kamay ng kabataan. I-declare lang ang laman nito, and gawing public. Yun lang naman ang puno't dulo nun, pero humaba pa at hindi na-approve, kaya nagkaroon, ma'am, for your information. Kaya ho nagkaroon ng Dirty Ashtray award. Kasi naco-consider po itong delaying tactic. For your information lang po... And we've received it for 5 years. So favorite po tayo. 5 years na tayong nakakatanggap ng ganun because of the tobacco lobby, okay? I withdrew my question... So I'll go now to your statement. In your report, Sec. Guevara, you mentioned that the Philippines enacted the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, which for the record, for those of you who don't know, I opposed. It is a diluted law which does not fully provide all the strengths that we could have, and it for the record removed the protective measures that were in place under the Sin Tax Law. Under the Sin Tax Law, the age of access of these products is 21 years old. Dito sa Vape Law, naging 18. Under the Sin Tax Law, it's FDA that has the authority to regulate these products. Nilipat po ito sa DTI under this law. And third, under the Sin Tax Law, ang flavors lang ng ating vape products is original flavor and menthol. Ngayon, lahat ng klaseng flavors, with a few exceptions, are available. So I would have thought that a complete report would have completed that. That we passed a Vape Law that now weakened what was a previous law. That would be a complete and comprehensive report kasi that is the truth. I am embarrassed to be part of a Congress that passed that law. But that would have been the truth. And that is what we are dealing with. So if you ask me, hindi dapat pinagmamalaki yun kasi kasama yun sa nababa. And dapat kasama dun sa highlight natin, pwede namin i-advertise sa internet ang vapes. Bakit niyo tinatago ang katotohanan? That is what you are allowing, na sa internet, kahit alam niyo naman, 14 years old, 15 years old, pwede naman tumingin sa internet, meron. So that is what should have been included. If we are going to report, let's give a complete report. Huwag lang yung one side. O diba? Kaya curious ako doon sa sinasabi mo eh ano bang side, ano bang side gusto niyo makita? Bigay niyo yung buo. You wanna tell them that we're taking care of our farmers? Tell me how we've taken care of the farmers. I want to know. I will be the first to support. But none of you can tell me. That is why we are here today. It is our job to take care of the Filipino people. Whether it's their healthcare, whether it's a private sector, that is our job. Attend kayo ng conference, ang dami niyo, ano ang na-accomplish natin? Report tayo sa Filipino people. I want to show you something... When DTI took the floor, sabi niyo, again, I was trying to follow, pero sabi niyo, you have shown ewan ko, how many thousand show-cause orders. Ano ang gagawin natin sa show-cause orders na yan? Ayan, isang click, isang click, available lahat yan. Anong gagawin natin pagkatapos ng show-cause order? Lahat yan available. And yung mga pinagbabawal sa batas na bawal yung mga characters, colors, yung anything that attracts a child, andyan din yun. Mga metallic colors, cute colors, fruity colors. Andyan lahat yun. So will you now support, i-ban na natin ngayon ang online sales? Because if you can't control it, then tell me what you're gonna do about it? This is just preliminary because what comes out of this would come out of the proper committee. So this will most likely be referred to the Committee on Health, probably with Committee on Trade, but I am just saying, I am bringing this out because pagod na pagod na ako sa Committee on Health, paulit-ulit na lang ito and nobody is responsible. So now, let's make people responsible. If you can't do it, tell us, let's amend the law. Let's amend it in a way that will make your job easier. Would you like to answer? --- So make it part of your post-hearing task, to give us specific recommendations, because these recommendations will be part of our report. Kung hindi niyo nagagawa yung trabaho niyo, sabihin niyo, kasi sa pagkakaintindi ko, banning online sales are part of different bodies already. So we want to hear it from you also, okay? --- What I'd like to get out of that, Secretary, is what are your learnings there? Kasi ayoko lang na defensive tayo. I mean, I've also been in a situation where I am critiqued for my work. So if I am critiqued, I try to be as open-minded and to see kung ano ba yung value ng critique na yun, may mai-improve ba ako. So I would expect na kayong government officials, I am assuming using government funds, would be open-minded, Admin. Sanchez. Hindi dapat tayo balat-sibuyas kasi we are public officials, so we need to be able to be mature enough to accept na bakit tayo na-critique, ano ba yung nagawa namin na nakatawag ng pansin sa kanila? So I understand, may explanation ka sa statement niyo, Secretary, kung ano ang process niyo, pinagdaanan niyo, kung bakit ganun yung statements niyo, but I am also saying na because of those steps that you took, it delayed. And because FCTC, this is COP10, so sampung meeting na nga, they consider it delaying tactics kasi. I am telling you as blunt as it is. It's considered delaying tactics because ika-sampung taon na alam nila ang ginagawa ng mga countries that are known to have the support or to be willing to work with the tobacco lobbyist na ganun yung ginagawang tactics. So yun lang naman yung sakin, if maninindigan tayo na hindi tayo nagpapa-sway sa tobacco lobby, then by all means, and that's why I allowed you to make your statement, by all means, make sure that hindi kayo napupunta doon sa direksyon na yun, because that is how it appears, and it is a great embarrassment to me. I direct my ano to DFA kasi sila naman usually ang humaharap sa atin on behalf of others, and like you say, it's your first time. The Philippines is very well respected in international communities, very well respected. Kaya nasasaktan ako na magkaroon tayo ng ganitong impression, okay? Anyway, let's go on... Department of Agriculture Usec. DV Savellano, who is not present today, was present in the... He was part of the delegation, correct? Representing DA. Ano role niya as uSec. for livestock? Ano kinalaman ng usec. for livestock dito sa WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control? May effect ba ang tobacco sa livestock? [Atty Guevara: That is also my question] So ano ang role niya? Kasi yun din ang sa akin, if NTA could represent him now in a Blue Ribbon hearing, siguro NTA could also represent him there, diba? Saved pa tayo ng taxpayers' money. Again, I have nothing against conferences, I am just saying, I want to know what is the role of everybody who participated in those conferences. I will assume good faith but make sure sa susunod, alam niyo kung anong role ng bawat isa, otherwise, just participate in meetings here. And use the funding to better the lives of the Filipino farmers, which is what you keep on saying. In the interest of time, from the agencies, ang kailangan ko pa tawagin is DILG, as Secretary said, very important ang role niyo. So can you give a brief statement on your participation in all this? --- Thank you. I was listening even though I had confer with our Director General, your list of issuances to support the laws that we had enacted. But again, my point is, as I am listening to you, maraming salamat sa support na binigay niyo dahil napakahalaga niyo talaga dito sa ating campaign against smoking and the use of vapes, especially among the youth. Kailangan ba after all the work that you have done, sumama pa kayo lahat doon? And you have 3 in your delegation who went. [DILG: We were only 2] I do not attribute malice, okay? I am just trying to raise this reality that we were the biggest delegation, I will repeat, bigger than China and Russia. So it's up to you to determine what would be a reasonable amount to spend. We are just here to check, to be sure and to bring to your attention kung nakikita natin na baka naman pwedeng mabawas-bawasan ang dami ng attendees, pwede tayo maka-focus kung ano yung trabaho at hand, recognizing that this is a health conference. Okay? Anyway, thank you. PLLO Asec. Rose Inigo. Just for your information, I read a number of... Thank you for... You gave us a lot of documents, so I have gone through all of them, I think very detailed. So I personally think I know what you are going to say, but just for the record, go ahead. --- We're done with the agencies. Let's now go to SEATCA, this is the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance, the Executive Director is with us, Dr. Yul Dorotheo... Sorry, before you proceed, were you present there? Are you part of the Philippine delegation or you go on your own? [Dr Yul: SEATCA is an accredited observer; member of GATC] --- Before you proceed, I just want to understand, who are the other Filipino parties that were present there. So of course, you represent SEATCA, and then Action for Health, were you present? Not present. Does the Philippine delegation include NGOs? Is that something that can be considered given that you have agencies that are looking after the welfare of the Filipino? Some of our NGOs are well known and have track records of doing the same, is that something that can be considered? I am just posing a question. [Dr Yul: PH delegation composed of reps from government] Is that the official... parang what I read is the protocol is the delegation can bring whoever they want, tama ba? Ang understanding ko, I don't recall that it said government officials only. I-check niyo for future reference. I'm just curious. And don't worry, I am not planning tos ay 34 pa rin pero kalahati, hindi naman yun ang objective ko. I am just opening this discussion to all possibilities. Okay, Dr Yul, go ahead. --- Even I'm trying to be sure I follow this correctly. It was the proposal of the Philippines to have both an expert group and a working group, and for the expert group to report to the working group, and that has never happened before. You are nodding your head because that is the proposal, correct? And my question is, that has never happened before, that there's an expert group that will report to a working group. [Dr Yul: Usually only an expert or working group] If I may interrupt you, I have this information, out of the 162 countries that participated, 115 had health representatives as their head of delegation, for the information of the body. --- Ano ba yung mga alternative livelihood and support systems na mandate ng batas na dapat niyo ma-deliver. Pakisulat na lang sa committee yan. --- Our next speaker is Health Justice Philippines, Mr. Ralph Emerson Degollacion --- I forgot to mention, in all my hearings, you are allowed to take a mobility break whenever you need it, so you are free to stand, to stretch, it's not a problem. As long as you just check with the Secretariat that you are not going to be called right away, you should be able to go to the restroom anytime. So as I am conferring with the Secretariat on our next step, if anyone wants to go for a quick bathroom break or stand up, feel free. Hearing is suspended. --- While we're waiting for DOH, mukhang wala pa sila, no? Let me all on Dr. Maricar Limpin, Executive Director of Action on Health and Smoking... ASH. We've worn many hats so I wasn't sure which hat you are wearing now. So ASH. [Dr Limpin: Premium must be put on health over economic issues; I've always been excluded from PH delegation during COP] Just for proper decorum, the questions are addressed to me. It's okay that you have those questions, but it should be addressed to me. Go ahead. Please wrap up. --- I was listening intently, as I was to all of your statements, and I think Secretary, what is important is something that Dr Limpin said, helps me clear my concerns. When you have a delegation that includes the tobacco sector representatives, for so long as their interest is the tobacco farmers, then they have a role to play, exactly as Dr Limpin pointed out. But when they are there in the guise of I don't know what, I don't know if they are pretending to be part of the health sector, or this balanced approach, this one nation approach, in the guise of that phrase, it muddles the purpose of why we are participating in these conferences. And then, because the question raised by some of you is you expressed dismay and confusion as to why the delegation received the Dirty Ashtray award. You received it for the following reasons nga. So you have members of the delegation who are representing the tobacco interest, pero hindi niyo naman dini-deretso na, ang concern lang namin ay tobacco farmers, and we want to hear from the other countries. You are now questioning or posing objections or concerns on Article 9 and 10. And Article 9 and 10 is about testing the emissions, monitoring, declaring what are the harmful products. So how does that look to the public? Sasabihin niyo para yan sa farmers, pero kinu-question niyo ang karapatan ng bawat Pilipino, ng bawat magulang na alamin kung ano ang laman ng produktong yun. Hindi naman farmers ang nakikinabang doon. So show me a statement that was made directly for the farmers and I will be the first one to defend you that you will not get that Dirty Ashtray award. Pero kung ang intervention niyo is about the right of the Filipinos to know what is in that product, tapos ang obligation na i-publish ang laman na yun, why would you attend that conference na yun ang pinaglalaban niyo? Yun ang details na inabala niyo? So I go now directly yo DTI, because my law, against my objection, but it is the law and I have no choice but to follow that law, you are duty-bound to... RA 11900, the Vape Law, basically says that "DTI, in consultation with FDA, shall set technical standards for safety, consistency, and quality of the products." Let me now refer to Article 9. Article 9 of FCTC is the testing and measuring of the contents and emission of the tobacco product. So hindi naman siguro nagkakalayo yun, kasi DTI, paano mo magagawa itong trabaho mo to set technical standards for safety, consistency, and quality, kung hindi mo alam ang content at sukat ng mga produktong yun? Agree naman, diba? Common sense naman, Secretary, am I making sense? I just want to be sure I am logical. Dr Yul? Dr Limpin? Hindi ako doktor pero inaano ko lang. Mr Emerson? So ang sabi lang naman sa FCTC, magkasundo tayo para magkaroon tayo ng testing and measuring of the content and emissions of the tobacco product, and the regulations of that. For me, that's just another way of saying what we have already in our law, that you set the technical standards for safety, consistency, and quality of the products, unless ang balak ba natin sabihin is gusto natin mas mababa ang standards natin for safety, consistency, and testing? No naman. Let the record show that Usec. Sanchez is vigorously shaking her head. And I am happy to know that, that it appears... I would assume that you want to have a high standard. So can you update us because during the budget hearing, what we got out of DTI is that they are still awaiting equipment, purchasing equipment, this is 2023. But for the record, because Atty Guevara you were not head of delegation then and not even involved in all of this then. All of you who are new... 2021 for the 2022 budget, Sec. Mon Lopez told me that meron nang new equipment. Tapos nung bagong administration, binibili pa lang yung equipment. So naglolokohan tayo. Because sabi ko, I stood by what the experts tell me that it is very technical, and I now defer to Dr Sacate, why don't you jump in on this discussion? When we had that budget hearing, you were also not yet the FDA director so I am again relaying this to all of you, I had asked, bakit nasa mandate ba ng DTI ang health? May capability ba ang DTI? And that's why the best I could do in the compromise of this bill is DTI, in consultation with the FDA. kasi si FDA naman ang alam kong may alam diyan, so may I know from the two of you, are you working together? Who is setting the standard? And are you happy with the standard that we have? --- What you are saying is in the absence of guidelines from the FCTC, you are prepared. So can you submit that to us? Can you just work together para hindi na ako mag-countercheck ng sabi mo, sabi mo. Can you submit something jointly? --- To be very clear, devices, yun pa lang yung lalagyan, okay? And in the past hearings, I don't know how many of you were with DTI, FDA, DOH at the time I was handling the budget discussions on this, there were initial discussions between FDA and DTI that si DTI would handle the device but FDA would handle the liquid. So where are you now with that? --- Sandali, so are you telling me that without the FCTC guidelines, hindi ka pwede mag-initiate ng testing mo, wala kang sariling standards? So na-accomplish ang goal ng vaping and tobacco industry na delay? Because kung aantayin mo pa yun, wala tayong testing, so tuloy ang ligaya. Ibenta ng ibenta yang mga produktong yan sa mga bata na hindi natin alam kung anong nakakalason. Is that what you are saying? Basically yes? Mr Secretary, is that acceptable to you that that is the outcome of your delegation's trip to this convention? --- Another item there, Mr Secretary, that I am pretty sure you didn't miss, but I need to hear it from you, is that yung binebenta naman sa consenting adults, ano laman nun? Alam ba nila? Nare-regulate ba natin? --- Mr Secretary, thank you for your explanation. I understand, I've been a participant in conferences many times. I will just, my short comment is simply that, perhaps precisely why some of your colleagues from other countries look towards you is because the Philippines does have a reputation of really being in the forefront of negotiations. And that's why it remains to be a disappointment that the position that it appears that you take is always in terms of not pursuing a policy that protects health. Again, I will repeat, because you keep saying that you do not understand. I will repeat, if you will say that you are here to support the balanced approach, which includes the interests of the farmers, nakakalito even for me na aral na aral ko ang tobacco issues, ang legislation, na kung farmers ang gusto mong proteksyunan, bakit mo pipigilan at naga-appear na pinipigilan yung mga articles tungkol sa testing and measuring? That is not meant to hurt the farmers, that is meant to protect all people na ma-test ng maayos. Yun lang ang point ng Dirty Ashtray award, kasi yung provisions na ito na gustong maisulong, hindi nga naisulong. So there's a lot of confusion na sinasaksak niyo na, kasi we are a tobacco growing... Eh kaya nga, anong naitulong niyo sa mga farmers, and for the benefit of Sen. Alan Cayetano, and I need to give him the floor now, I had asked pointedly since they keep on saying that the reason why they have a delegation with all these people present, ano ang naitulong sa mga farmers directly? Dahil the data shows that the farmers are the poorest sector. And the tobacco farmers, I do not have any other data that shows na mas angat sila sa ibang klaseng farmers. Wala, wala naman nakasagot sa akin. So ang point ko, so bakit pa natin ginagawa ito? Yun naman yung point ko. Again, Mr Secretary, out of respect, you wanted to say something, I gave you the floor, I'll have to give it to my brother, na siya lang ang pinansin ko ng ganito katagal dahil kapatid ko naman siya. So I haven't even acknowledged his presence. May we acknowledge the presence of Sen. Cayetano... --- I understand, my point is I hope you also understand that when you come to the table with this balanced policy, and say that it is for the benefit of the Filipino farmers, pero ang naaapektuhan na mga provisions are things like testing and monitoring, then nako-confuse, and even I would conclude, was that meant to help or not? Kaya yun, and then may history na tayo. So sadly for you, you come in with a history na apat na taon na rin naman yung Pilipinas. So kumbaga, you don't come in with a clean slate. So may burden tayo to show, and I say tayo, because you represent the Philippines. And I trust that you intend to represent us well, and I understand your explanations, I do. Pero you also have to understand kung ano ang pinanggagalingan and ano yung paradigm that you are working in. --- For the record, Usec. DV Savellano was the DA representative of delegation, but he wrote a letter that he is not available today. And he said NTA can ably represent him, so yung questions mo for DA can be addressed to NTA, but anyone who can support and answer, please. ******* Senate Blue Ribbon hearing on Dirty Ashtray Transcript (part 2) ===== Just for the information of DepEd and DILG, and Sen. Alan, everyone, I think it was I don't know who, I think DILG, on strictly following or trying to implement the 100 meters away from schools. For the record, the kind of fights that I fight is, I pushed for 200 meters, talo. Why wouldn't you accept 200 meters? Why wouldn't you allow this to be farther from the reach of children? So that, Mr Secretary, is the reason why you came into this position na ganun na yung tingin naming mga advocates sa nagre-represent sa Philippines. Kasi time and again, they pretend to be pro-health and yet every action we take is not pro-health. Dun nanggagaling yun. And you do have that burden that you had to fill in those shoes as head of delegation without the knowledge of all of these things that have transpired. Very quickly, because we do have very involved resource persons here, we have a session at 3 o'clock. Your agencies were not in the conference but you have been very active in the fight against tobacco. So can you just give a quick statement and then your full statements will be a part of the record. Ms. Angelica Ramirez. --- And then we call on Atty. Paula Tanquieng, from the Action for Economic Reforms, they were very active with us during the Sin Tax deliberations and many others. --- Thank you very much. I'll remind DOH and particularly FDA, to submit so that before the next hearing, I want to see what you have already done in terms of the equipment, the personnel you need for proper testing, registration, and so on and so forth, and whatever collaboration you have. Because I think, Al, before you arrived, I also gave a bit of history that during the time of Sec. Mon Lopez, he told me that they already had equipment and then in the hearing 3 months ago, they told me they're buying. So paikot-ikot lang tayo, kahit ako, niloloko lang ako na may equipment walang equipment, may tao walang tao. Anyway, I'd like to also end on this note to show you... These are examples of some vapes, ecigs. This one is called Korean dessert. Clearly, as you would know, USec. Sanchez, outlawed. You are not allowed to show pictures of desserts, okay? But at the very least, and of course I have no idea if this is accurate. Meron siyang list of ingredients. So that's why we really know. Technically, even before they put this here, just like any other food or cosmetic product, you test it kung tama yung nilalagay niyang laman niyan. And then this one has nothing. It has nothing. This does not even try to comply with the laws. So I hope you understand, those of you who are not in the health and trade, because it's the two that are primarily involved. This is what we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Very attractive to kids, this is very neon, very metallic... Watermelon... --- They did, they said they issued thousands of show-cause orders, and then I said, and then? --- So kasama siguro sa conspiracy yun na kina-cut yung budget ng testing. I wouldn't be surprised, seriously. But sadly, there are so many people in your office who know that I am the advocate, how come no one told me? You don't even try, you don't even try to get a bigger budget. I would've given you a bigger budget. I would've sacrificed other advocacies that I have to give the budget to you. Because you don't bother... And then kayo naman sa health, you know that I am counting on you. You know that I am counting on you to have our backs, to look after these kids, because DTI, that is not at the forefront of their consciousness. Wala naman sa mandate nila yung health, nasa inyo. So every step of the way, you should be there watching. Nobody brought it to my attention. It's very annoying. So ano tayo ngayon, titigan? Titigan tayo ngayon? Titigan tayo until next budget, wala tayo pang-testing? My Gosh. Puro lokohan ang ginagawa natin dito. --- I'll end on this note. For all of those who have expressed surprise that this delegation received the Dirty Ashtray award, one of the provisions that was questioned was the delegation's concern on the comprehensive ban on advertisement. And as I try to digest why would you want there to be advertisements of attractive colors, of flavors for the youth? Why would you want it if you are trying to protect the youth? We should be for a comprehensive ban. And yet here we are, hindi tayo pumapayag na may comprehensive ban tayo. And yet yung industry, comprehensive yung tactics niya, including itong pag-confuse sa inyo na nagtataka pa kayo bakit tayo nagkaroon ng Dirty Ashtray award? My ability to communicate it was probably not even comprehensive enough, thankfully, my brother bothered to take time and tried to explain it from a different point of view, para lalong maintindihan ng mga nalilito kung bakit we deserve the Dirty Ashtray award. And then we hear that after all these years of telling me that may budget and merong equipment na nandyan na daw, I'll find out na na-cut yung budget, walang nag-abala to request para madagdagan natin yung budget for the testing? And then we're arguing about the testing pero wala naman tayong pang-test? It's a very comprehensive approach to making sure that the products are out there poisoning our youth, that is the approach, and they are successful. And if any of you here, because all of you, except for a few from the civil society, are in bed with the tobacco industry, that is a crime. And this Committee will not stand for it. By not acting on your job, you are committing a crime. So work with me so we can protect the children of this country. Work with me so that those who have addiction can truly seek the medical help they need and not be persuaded by unregulated advertisement that simply tell them this is a safer alternative, this is a less harmful alternative. May I know from DOH... FDA... has any of these tobacco companies gone to FDA and requested... the permission to sell a product that is a cessation device? Meron ba sa kanila? [FDA: None yet, no policy yet] Regardless kung may policy ka, may lumapit ba? Wala nga. Magkaroon ka na rin ng policy, para kapag may lumapit. But my point is, they are all trying to sell it, they'll say it in any possible way, they'll say that it's less harmful, and yet they will not go to FDA to get a certification that it is less harmful. --- The time is late, I know you've given us most of your day. I thank you very much. Thank you for your patience also, it is not a comfortable discussion, so I appreciate everyone's professionalism. It is my job to, it is not a task that I chose, and yet it is my job to be able to sit through these uncomfortable hearings, and hopefully, everybody comes here with good intentions, but not everybody will as we have seen in previous hearings. But it is my intention to make everybody to be as comfortable as possible and never to humiliate anyone or to put words in your mouth. You are always welcome to clarify the statements you make and if you want to follow up with a written statement or talk to my staff, you are free to do that. On that note, I will suspend so you can all go about your day. Thank you for your time. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The accession of the Azerbaijan Education Research Association (AzERA) to the European Educational Research Association (EERA) holds significance for the development of the country, said Vice Rector of Academic Affairs at ADA University (Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy) Vafa Kazdal, during the event on the occasion of the establishment of AzERA and its joining to EERA, Trend reports. "This is poised to yield numerous beneficial outcomes for Azerbaijan's economy, scientific research endeavors within the country, and the education of its youth," she said. Today, On February 21, ADA University hosted an event related to the founding of the Azerbaijan Educational Research Association (AzERA) and the announcement of its membership in the European Educational Research Association (EERA). The event was attended by renowned scholars, including EERA President Prof. Marit Honerd Hoveid, Vice President Lucian Ion Ciolan, ADA University Senior Lecturer Ulviyya Mikayilova, ADA University Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs Elkin Nurmammadov, ADA University Vice Rector of Academic Affairs Vafa Kazdal. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel A Monmouth County man has been charged in the death of a 33-year-old who suffered a fatal overdose in 2023, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office said on Wednesday. James Liu, 30, of Ocean, is charged with strict liability for a drug death, a first-degree crime, authorities said. Hes also charged with drug possession. Berkeley Township officers arrived at the mans home on Dec. 26, 2023, after receiving a call for an unresponsive male, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Ocean County Medical Examiners Office determined the man died from a fentanyl overdose, according to the prosecutors office. It was determined through an investigation by the prosecutors office and the Berkeley police that Liu supplied the man with the drugs, authorities said. Liu is currently being held pending a first appearance in court. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Deion Johnson may be reached at djohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Instagram at @DeionRJohnson or X @DeionRJohhnson An advocacy group for people with disabilities sued the Murphy Administration Tuesday for running the states public psychiatric hospitals like prisons, where patients have been sexually and physically assaulted, deprived of basic necessities like water and kept months and even years beyond their discharge date. Disability Rights New Jersey, a federally funded advocacy organization, described grim conditions for many of the 1,150 patients at the Ancora Psychiatric Hospital in Winslow, Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital in Parsippany, Trenton Psychiatric Hospital and Ann Klein Forensic Center in Trenton and Ewing. The reality on the ground is more akin to psychiatric incarceration, the 99-page federal lawsuit said. A convicted Ponzi schemer who had his 24-year sentence commuted by former President Donald Trump has been indicted in what authorities say is his third investment scam. Eliyahu Eli Weinstein, 48, of Lakewood, was indicted by a grand jury on Tuesday along with 49-year-old Aryeh Ari Bromberg, the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey said. The two are accused of starting up an elaborate investment scheme when Weinstein was on supervised release. They are both charged with securities fraud, conspiracy to commit securities fraud, four counts of wire fraud conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Weinstein was one of 140 people who were granted clemency by Trump on Jan. 19, 2021, the last day of his presidency. Weinstein, who had served eight years of his 24-year sentence, was required to serve three years of parole upon his release. He had been convicted in two separate cases a $200 million Ponzi scheme involving a portfolio of fake real estate investments and a second scam in which he duped a single investor out of $6.7 million after tricking the victim into thinking that he had an inside track on hard-to-get shares of the Facebook initial public offering. After his release, Weinstein started working with Bromberg and others to solicit investments through a company called Optimus Investments Inc., prosecutors alleged. The indictment also accuses Weinstein of using the fake name Mike Konig to hide his criminal history from prospective investors. Investors were told that their funds would be invested in COVID-19 masks, baby formula which was scarce at the time and first-aid kits for the Russia-Ukranian war. By February 2022, Optimus and Tryon Management Group LLC, the other company allegedly involved, did not have enough funds to pay back investors, according to the indictment. The companies then tried to hide this by paying them money from other investors in a Ponzi-like fashion and claimed that the funds came from investment returns, authorities alleged. Weinstein finally revealed his true identity to Christopher Anderson and Richard Curry, the two men who operated Tyron, in August 2022, investigators said. Anderson and Curry then helped him to continue concealing his identity from investors and attempted to raise more money to pay off the investors and keep the Ponzi scheme going, the indictment alleged. Prosecutors have also accused Bromberg of conspiring with Weinstein to hide assets that should have been used to pay his court-ordered restitution, which totaled more than $230 million and helping him hide his business activities from the government. Anderson and Curry as well as another co-conspirator, 35-year-old Alaa Mohamed Hattab, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities fraud and are awaiting sentencing. Criminal charges are pending for two other alleged members of the operation, Joel Wittels and Shlomo Erez, officials said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka intends to run for New Jersey governor, his press secretary told NJ Advance Media on Tuesday. In a speech at a Black History month event Monday night, Baraka signaled his intent by saying he wanted to be governor, although it was unclear if he was formally announcing. But on Tuesday, his press secretary, Susan Garofalo, said his comment was meant to launch his campaign. That was his announcement, Garofalo said. A 53-year-old in his third term as mayor of New Jerseys largest city, Baraka has long been considered a potential contender in the 2025 race to succeed term-limited Democrat Phil Murphy. He will be the third Democrat to jump into an increasingly crowded primary next year for the partys nomination. If he wins the nod and then the general election, Baraka would become first Black governor in state history and would also be the first Newark mayor to hold the job. The race to take over for Murphy is already a robust one despite the general election being 22 months away. Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and former state Senate President Stephen Sweeney are running on the Democratic side, while state Sen. Jon Bramnick is the lone Republican do declare so far. Other contenders from both parties are expected to follow in New Jerseys first battle for an open governors seat since 2017. Baraka made the announcement supporters had long been waiting for at the War Memorial in Trenton on Monday night. He was speaking during a celebration of the Devine 9, the nations first Black fraternities and sororities, which include Alpha Phi Alpha, Barakas fraternity at Howard University, and one the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other notable figures from the Civil Rights movement belonged to. The mayor made the announcement during an impassioned 35-minute speech on the lasting impact that slavery and institutional racism have had on the economic and political standing of Black people and also spoke of his own childhood in Newark. He closed with a reference to an ancestor, imagining words of inspiration she might have said to him. My great-great-great-great grandmother, on her knees, with her eyes closed, he said, crossing his arms against his chest, as he envisioned her doing. Not knowing what tomorrow looks like, saying, Theyre not going to hold you down. Theyre not going to hold you back. Theyre not going to steal your future. Theyre not going to keep your tomorrows, little Black boy from Newark, New Jersey. Just a kid, just a kid from Newark, and all of your weakness and feebleness, and all your humanity, that you, too, can stand here at the Trenton War Memorial and say, I want to be the governor of the United, of the State of New Jersey. The audience erupted in cheers and applause. Those in attendance Monday night said Baraka made his intentions clear. I was right there with him, said Newark City Councilman Dupre Kelly, an Alpha Phi Alpha brother who was elected in 2022 with Barakas backing. Baraka hails from one of Newarks most famous families. His father is the late renowned poet and civil rights leader Amiri Baraka. The younger Baraka is a poet and author in his own right, as well as an educator who worked as a teacher and principal in the city. Notably, he made guest appearances on two of the most acclaimed hip-hop albums of all time. He provides the spoken-word intro to 1996s The Score by New Jersey group the Fugees and then played the role of a teacher on 1998s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the debut solo record by the Fugees rapper and singer. Baraka also served two stints on the Newark City Council before being elected mayor in 2014, succeeding now-U.S. Cory Booker. As mayor, Baraka made restoring the ranks of a depleted police department a priority, while seeking to reform the force and improve community relations as it remained under a federal consent decree to curb abuses. Baraka also sought to supplement policing with civilian violence prevention programs, for which he was recognized by former President Barack Obama. Baraka has also made increasing Newarks housing supply one of his main goals, revamping the citys zoning ordinance to encourage higher density housing in an effort to create more affordable units. In addition, he oversaw the rapid replacement of 23,000 lead service lines that contributed to contamination of Newarks drinking water. But the state Department of Environmental Protection and the city are investigating the apparent failure of a private contractor to remove all lead components from the service lines. Baraka is now vying for the states highest-ranking position in what could be a field of half-a-dozen Democrats. Political observers say he could benefit from support in both Essex County and with Black voters to distinguish himself from the field. That Baraka and Jersey Citys Fulop are running means the governors race will include the mayors of New Jerseys two largest cities. Only three mayors have been elected governor of the state, the last was Woodbridges Jim McGreevey in 2002. Newark City Council President Lamonica McIver, who was on the same Baraka-backed council slate as Kelly in 2022, was also at Mondays event. She called the announcement super exciting. It gives so much character and charisma to the race, McIver said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Steve Strunsky may reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him at @johnsb01. Every photo and video that the Yankees share on social media during the early stages of spring training tends to go viral within the fan base. After a long winter, with all the new faces present at Yankees camp, fans are starving for content. One picture that the Yankees shared on Tuesday, however, received more rave reviews than usual in the comments. Sign up for our Yankees newsletter Ex-Yankees pitchers Ron Guidry, Andy Pettitte and CC Sabathia posed for a picture while standing in the bullpen at Steinbrenner Field. The caption? Class is in session. Those three legendary left-handers frequently make appearances at Yankees camp in Tampa, working with the pitching staff as guest instructors. Pettitte, who was hired last summer by the Yankees as an advisor, will be around for more than just spring training this year, though. Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned during a presser on Tuesday that Pettitte could be present with the team for 40-to-60-plus games in 2024, per Andy Martino of SNY. The Yankees made an effort to inject more experienced baseball minds into the coaching staff this winter, hiring hitting coach James Rowson and assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler. Pettitte falls into a category of his own: he isnt a coach, but hes a baseball lifer, an all-time great who went through it all at the big-league level. Every pitcher from ace Gerrit Cole down to the youngsters looking to carve out a role in the Bronx can benefit from conversations with Pettitte this season. The more he can be here, the better, Boone said this summer after Pettitte was officially onboarded by the club. Obviously hes got obligations back at home. So well see him at times where hell pop in on the road. Well see him here. Im saving a seat for him on the plane whenever he wants to jump in. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Max Goodman may be reached at mgoodman@njadvancemedia.com. 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 Occasional snow showers. High 38F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 100%. About one inch of snow expected.. Tonight Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the evening. Low 27F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Money transfers through the Contact QIWI Bank system to Azerbaijan have been halted since today, the country's Unibank told Trend. This information was also confirmed by the local Xalq Bank. Money transfers through the Contact system are suspended due to impossible technical implementation, Xalq Bank said. To note, the Central Bank of Russia has revoked the license of QIWI Bank. "The Bank of Russia issued order OD-266 on February 21, 2024, revoking the credit organization QIWI Bank Joint Stock Company's (QIWI Bank JSC) banking license (reg. 2241, Moscow). The Bank of Russia made such a decision in accordance with paragraphs 6 and 6.1 of Part 1 of Article 20 of Federal Law "On Banks and Banking Activities," guided by the fact that the bank violated federal laws regulating banking activities and Bank of Russia regulations, for which the regulator imposed measures on it five times in the last year, including two times imposing restrictions on certain operations. Furthermore, numerous incidents of banks opening QIWI-purses using individuals' personal data without their knowledge and conducting activities generated substantial risks for residents," the statement of the Central Bank of Russia reads. Citing the Russian media, the payment system Contact (owned by QIWI Group) and its operator, QIWI Bank, ceased operations following the revocation of the credit institution's license, as did replenishment and transfers via QIWI-wallets. The Contact system is used to send money abroad. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel William Voiles is a regular sight in the French Quarter, pedaling his adult tricycle with a small menagerie of animals riding, remarkably calmly, in the front and rear baskets. Photos from June show Voiles collection included a brown rabbit, a small white dog, a small brown dog and two opossums, one large and one little. The rolling cast of animals changes over time. In online videos, Voiles can be seen pedaling along with a opossum clinging to his back and shoulders. But on Feb. 10 at about 11 a.m., Voiles said, he was stopped by law enforcement officers near Royal and St. Peter streets. The officers spotted his pet opossum, Saffron, and one asked, Is that opossum yours? 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. In this screen grab from lapel camera video, movie set armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, (R), speaks with a sheriff's deputy as other colleagues, at (C) and (L), react on the set of the western move "Rust," shortly after the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins by Alec Baldwin during a rehearsal, N.M., on Oct. 21, 2021. (Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office via AP) SANTA FE, N.M.Prosecutors in New Mexico are pursuing accountability for the 2021 death of a cinematographer who was fatally shot by actor Alec Baldwin during a rehearsal for the Western film Rust. Before Baldwins case progresses, the armorer on the set is being tried on charges of involuntary manslaughter and tampering with evidence. Sixteen jurorsincluding four alternateswere sworn in for trial Wednesday, capping a daylong selection process conducted largely out of public and media view in deference to the privacy of jurors. Gutierrez-Reed has pleaded not guilty to the charges and maintains shes not directly to blame for Halyna Hutchins death. Baldwin also has pleaded not guilty to an involuntary manslaughter charge in a separate case. Jurors were chosen from a pool of 70 residents from the Santa Fe area that included non-English speakers, a welder, a teacher, a graduate student and a mother who provides for six children. Prosecutors asked potential jurors about their exposure to intensive media coverage and social media chatter about the case. Prosecutors plan to present evidence that Gutierrez-Reed loaded a live round into the gun that killed Hutchins after unknowingly bringing live ammunition onto a set where it was expressly prohibited. They contend the armorer missed multiple opportunities to ensure safety on the movie set. Defense attorneys have said they have evidence that will show otherwise. The evidence and testimony has implications for Baldwin, who was pointing a gun at Hutchins during an October 2021 rehearsal outside Santa Fe when the cinematographer was killed and director Joel Souza was wounded. Here are some things to know about the Gutierrez-Reed trial: Charges Gutierrez-Reed, the stepdaughter of renowned sharpshooter and weapons consultant Thell Reed, was 24 at the time of Hutchins death. Rust was her second assignment as an armorer in a feature film. Gutierrez-Reed faces up to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine if convicted of involuntary manslaughter. The evidence tampering charge stems from accusations she handed a small bag of possible narcotics to another crew member after the shooting to avoid detection by law enforcement. Her attorneys say that charge is prosecutors attempt to smear Gutierrez-Reeds character. The bag was thrown away without testing the contents, defense attorneys said. More than 40 people are listed as witnesses for the trial set to run through March 6. Ammunition Authorities found six rounds of ammunition on the movie set in locations that included a box, a gun belt and a bandolier worn by Baldwin. Baldwin has said he assumed the gun only had rounds that couldnt be fired. Special prosecutors have argued in court filings that Hutchins died because of a series of negligent acts by Gutierrez-Reed. They say she should have noticed live rounds and intervened long before the shooting. Gutierrez-Reeds attorneys say shes unfairly been scapegoated. They contend live rounds arrived on set from an Albuquerque-based supplier of dummy rounds. They also pointed to a broader atmosphere of safety failures uncovered during an investigation by state workplace safety inspectors that go beyond Gutierrez-Reed. Additionally, Gutierrez-Reed is accused in another case of carrying a gun into a bar in downtown Santa Fe in violation of state law. Her attorneys say that charge has been used to try to pressure Gutierrez-Reed into a false confession about the handling of live ammunition on the Rust set. Workplace Safe Gutierrez-Reed was responsible for storage, maintenance and handling of firearms and ammunition on set and for training members of the cast who would be handling firearms, according to state workplace safety regulators. Live rounds are typically distinguished from dummy rounds by a small hole in the dummys brass cartridge, indicating there is no explosive inside or by shaking the round to hear the clatter of a BB that is inserted inside. A missing or dimpled primer at the bottom of the cartridge is another trait of dummy rounds. The company Rust Movie Productions paid a $100,000 fine to the state following a scathing narrative of safety failures in violation of standard industry protocols. The report included testimony that production managers took limited or no action to address two misfires on set before Hutchins was shot. Prosecutors urged a judge to keep regulators conclusions out of the trial because those might be used to argue that Rust management was responsible for safety failures, not Gutierrez-Reed. The judge in the case sided last week with Gutierrez-Reed. The report says the production company did not develop a process for ensuring live rounds were kept away from the set and that it failed to give the armorer enough time to thoroughly inventory ammunition. Baldwin Baldwin, the lead actor and a co-producer on Rust, was indicted in January on an involuntary manslaughter charge. Baldwin has said he pulled back the guns hammernot the triggerand the weapon fired. The charge against Baldwin provides two alternative standards for prosecution, one based on the negligent use of a firearm and another tied to negligence without due caution or circumspection, also defined as total disregard or indifference for the safety of others. Legal experts say the latter standard could broaden the investigation beyond Baldwins handling of the gun. Alex Spiro, a defense attorney for Baldwin, says thats unlikely to be allowed in court. Theres a theory that, by being the producer, he also has criminal liability, Spiro said Tuesday before a judge in a scheduling hearing. We dont think that will withstand scrutiny. Prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis initially dismissed an involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin in April, saying they were informed the gun might have been modified before the shooting and malfunctioned. A more recent analysis of the gun concluded the trigger had to be pulled or depressed sufficiently to release the fully cocked or retracted hammer of the evidence revolver. Industry-wide guidance that applied to Rust says to treat all firearms as if they are loaded. A trial date hasnt been set for Baldwin. By Morgan Lee Demonstrators hold banners and placards outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, on Feb. 20, 2024. (Alberto Pezzali/AP Photo) LONDONJulian Assanges lawyers opened a final UK legal challenge Tuesday to stop the WikiLeaks founder from being sent to the United States to face spying charges, arguing that American authorities are seeking to punish him for exposing serious criminal acts by the U.S. government. Lawyer Edward Fitzgerald said Mr. Assange may suffer a flagrant denial of justice if he is sent to the U.S. At a two-day High Court hearing, Mr. Assanges attorneys are asking judges to grant a new appeal, his last legal roll of the dice in Britain. Mr. Assange himself was not in court. Judge Victoria Sharp said he was granted permission to come from Belmarsh Prison for the hearing, but had chosen not to attend. Mr. Fitzgerald said the 52-year-old Australian was unwell. Stella Assange, his wife, said Mr. Assange had wanted to attend, but that his health was not in good condition. He was sick over Christmas, hes had a cough since then, she told The Associated Press. She said The WikiLeaks founder was following proceedings through his lawyers. Mr. Assanges family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and the last five years in the high-security prison on the outskirts of the British capital. He has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his websites publication of classified U.S. documents almost 15 years ago. American prosecutors say Mr. Assange helped U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks later published, putting lives at risk. To his supporters, Mr. Assange is a secrecy-busting journalist who exposed U.S. military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They argue that the prosecution is politically motivated and he wont get a fair trial in the U.S. Hundreds of supporters holding Free Julian Assange signs and chanting there is only one decisionno extradition held a noisy protest outside the neo-Gothic High Court in London. Rallies were also held in cities around the world, including Rome, Brussels and Berlin. If Julian Assange is successfully extradited to the U.S., journalists the world over are going to have to watch their back, said Simon Crowther, legal advisor to human rights group Amnesty International. Stella Assange told the crowd the case was about the right to be able to speak freely without being put in prison and hounded and terrorized by the state. Referring to the Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in prison last week, she said: What happened to Navalny can happen to Julian, and will happen to Julian if he is extradited. Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022said last week that his health has deteriorated during years of confinement and if hes extradited, he will die. If the judges rule against Mr. Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extraditionthough supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the U.S. before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. Mr. Assanges lawyers say he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence is likely to be much shorter. While several of Mr. Assanges arguments against extradition have already been rejected by British courts, his lawyers are trying to make new points to secure an appeal. Mr. Assanges attorneys argued that the prosecution is politically motivated retaliation for WikiLeaks exposure of criminality on the part of the U.S. government on an unprecedented scale, including torture and killings. The U.S. was prepared to go to any lengths (including misusing its own criminal justice system) to sustain impunity for U.S. officials in respect of the torture/war crimes committed in its infamous war on terror, and to suppress those actors and courts willing and prepared to try to bring those crimes to account, Mr. Assanges lawyers said in written arguments. Mr. Assange was one of those targets. Mr. Assanges lawyers also want judges to reconsider allegations that the CIA developed plans to kidnap or kill Mr. Assange while he was in the Ecuadorian Embassy. A lower-court judge has dismissed the claims, but Assange attorney Mark Summers said Tuesday that theres evidence the plot was real. There was a plot to kidnap Mr. Assange, to rendition him to America, or else straightforwardly murder him, he claimed. Mr. Fitzgerald added that there is a real possibility of the return of a Trump administration prepared to consider extrajudicial attack, or worse against Mr. Assange. Lawyers for the U.S. government will set out their case on Wednesday. James Lewis, representing the U.S., said Mr. Assange was being prosecuted because he is alleged to have committed serious criminal offences. He argued in written submissions that Mr. Assanges actions threatened damage to the strategic and national security interests of the United States and put individuals named in the documentsincluding Iraqis and Afghans who had helped U.S. forcesat risk of serious physical harm. Mr. Assanges legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Mr. Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Mr. Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A UK district court judge rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Mr. Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh U.S. prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the U.S. about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Mr. Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. The judges, Judge Sharp and Judge Jeremy Johnson, could deliver a verdict at the end of the hearing on Wednesday, but theyre more likely to take several weeks to consider their decision. By Jill Lawless BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijan and the US have reached an agreement to hold discussions aimed at aligning energy security and climate objectives, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Energy Ministry, following a meeting between the head of the ministry Parviz Shahbazov, and US Special Assistant to the President Sarah Ladislaw. "Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov had a meeting at the White House with Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate and Energy, National Security Council," the Energy Ministry said. The meeting reportedly delved into the significance of sustained collaboration for executing regional and global energy security initiatives. Additionally, discussions covered the role of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) amidst the complex energy crisis in the European Union. "Over the past three years, the Southern Gas Corridor has supplied Europe with over 31 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Currently, Azerbaijan is spearheading the expansion of SGC and the enhancement of gas deliveries to Europe," the press release added. During the meeting with Ladislaw, emphasis was placed on Azerbaijan's abundant renewable energy potential, which is directed towards achieving the country's energy transition goals and diversifying energy supplies to Europe. "The Caspian-Black Sea-Europe green energy corridor project was discussed, highlighting the progress made in its implementation. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev strongly supports the development of green energy. Furthermore, Azerbaijan's leadership of COP29 underscores its dedication to green energy, climate initiatives, and decarbonization strategies," the ministry statement reads. Regarding COP29, discussions revolved around Azerbaijan's national and global energy transition policies and plans. The conversation also touched upon potential contributions to the climate finance process and efforts to reduce methane emissions. An agreement was reached to hold a dialogue on cooperation between Azerbaijan and the US to harmonize energy security and climate goals. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Orland Fire Protection District Chief Michael Schofield and State Sen. Michael Hastings said history is being made in the South Suburbs. Both joined other officials Jan. 31 at the Hazel Crest Fire Department to laud a new CAD-to-CAD system at a news conference. CAD, which stands for computer-aided-dispatch, will be in used in several districts in the Southland, including Orland Park and Tinley Park. The new system will save minutes on fire calls and emergencies that require other fire departments to assist. This is a life-changing and a lifesaving program, said Hastings (D., Frankfort). This is a great day for the Southland, and its a great day for the state of Illinois. For the first time in the history of fire service, were going to implement a program that will have real-time information as to where our fire assets are. If you have a fire, it generally requires another fire department to come and help and assist. The problem is that a lot of our fire organizations dont have the capability to see real time and where all the fire assets are. Orland Park will be heading up the initiative, which received $600,000 in state grant money courtesy of Hastings efforts. A couple of years ago, I was looking into how we could improve on our response time, Schofield said. The delays were minutes. When he had fires and brought in other agencies, we had to make a phone call. I said this is ridiculous. With todays technology, we are wasting time calling other dispatch centers. We found this program and in Washington D.C., its been a great success. This will change fire service forever, moving us ahead in saving lives. He added that it will be of great benefit for ambulance calls. We run more ambulance calls than fire calls, Schofield said. As we all know, when someone is not breathing, seconds count. The delay that we had calling other agencies taking three, five, seven minutes was ridiculous. With the $600,000 state grant, south suburban fire departments will soon begin implementing new technology from CentralSquare Unify that will sync dispatch services among fire protection districts in the program. Bidirectional adapters, which communicate directly into an intelligence hub, help speed the process of requesting assistance from neighboring departments. The new technology will provide instant alerts to south suburban fire protection districts when additional assistance is needed in emergencies and cut response times by several minutes. Its great to bring all of these great fire departments together, Hazel Crest Mayor Vernard Alsberry said. Time saves lives. And this makes sure that we will have time to save lives. Hazel Crest Fire Chief Tyrone Jarrett calls it a game changer. When I started, we didnt even have 911, Jarrett said, referring to the national emergency number. That helped to save lives. Now with this, it will allow a lot more lives to be saved. Im very happy this has happened. Richton Park Fire Chief Mick Smith also gave a thumbs-up to the project and is happy the south suburbs are the first to be able to use this technology. This just shows another example of the fire services doing everything to provide the best service that we can, he said. To be able to reduce the time for other resources that are needed is just like (Hazel Crest's Jarrett) said, its a game-changer for us. This will save lives. This will protect property. And all the pillars that we have in public safety this is just going to advance them. This is a great thing for the Southland. The American Association of University Women hosted a lunch honoring women township trustees in Porter County and plans to host an Unhappy Hour to mark Equal Pay Day next month. The Porter County Chapter of AAUW held a Take Your Women Trustee to Lunch Day lunch Wednesday at The Dish restaurant on Calumet Avenue in Valparaiso. The group honored Pleasant Township Trustee Karyl VanDyke, Jackson Township Trustee Jan Myers and Westchester Township Trustee Suzanne Philbrick. "We wanted to honor them," said the American Association of University Women's Sandy Holt. "Our mission is to advocate for equity for women and girls so we want to recognize those who are doing important work in our community." The township trustees talked to the women's group about their jobs and their work serving the public. "We wanted to thank them for their service," she said. "We're always looking for opportunities to honor women in the community." The American Association of University Women also plans to host an upcoming Unhappy Hour cocktail party from 7-9 p.m. March 14 at the Design Barn at 312 N. Madison St. in Hebron. It will recognize Equal Pay Day March 6, which is the symbolic day in which women on average will make the same amount men did the previous year. Rosalie Levinson, previously a law professor at Valparaiso University, and Jean Smarto with Bank of New York Mellon's office in Pittsburgh, will discuss the wage gap and what women can do. They will offer mentoring to help women advance their careers and get ahead financially. "We've had Unhappy Hours before," she said. "We have book groups, movie groups, foreign affairs discussions and other programs. We give $9,000 in scholarships to three women every year to help them further their education." For more information, email larsanholt@gmail.com or call 219-707-1749. CROWN POINT A Merrillville woman was issued a 3-year sentence for shooting and killing her husband while they were in a physical struggle over a gun after a night out for her 41st birthday in 2021. Nakeyia Anderson, 43, will serve two years of her sentence in the Indiana Department of Correction and one year on probation, Lake Criminal Court Judge Salvador Vasquez said in court Wednesday. She was convicted of reckless homicide after a jury trial in November and has been awaiting her sentencing since. "This is a horrible, tragic case," Vasquez said after issuing his sentence. "It was avoidable." The couple was in an altercation on July 18, 2021 outside their home on the 5900 block of Harrison Street when Nakeyia Anderson pulled out a firearm from her vehicle and the two struggled for the gun before it went off in her 44-year-old husband Tihomas Anderson's direction, killing him. Detectives who arrived at the scene said the inside of their home was in disarray with alcohol bottles strewn across the floor, pictures knocked off the wall, blinds damaged and a mounted television partially pulled from the wall. Vasquez said her lack of criminal history warrants a sentence lower than the advisory sentence. However, the nature of her conduct was certainly reckless and warrants prison time, as opposed to a suspended sentence on probation. Reckless homicide is a level five felony, which carries a possibility of between one and six years in prison. The advisory sentence is three years. Prior to the sentencing, Tihomas Anderson's sisters made statements to Vasquez and asked for Nakeyia Anderson to receive the maximum possible sentence. "My brother is the victim, not her," Tihomas Anderson's sister Nakea said. "She claimed it was an accident ... she shed not one tear when he was laying on the ground dying." "We are still crying, my family," Nakea Anderson said. Defense attorney Scott King said the circumstances of the situation do not warrant an aggravated sentence. In addition to Nakeyia Anderson's lack of criminal history, she has eight children who need her, some of who are underage or have a disability. He said her conduct and response to the shooting was appropriate because she admitted to police what happened after the fact. "(She was) not trying to cover up, not trying to blame others," King said. "You saw her reaction. It was not a reaction consistent with a guilty mind." Deputy Prosecutor Tara Villarreal said body-worn camera footage showed to the jury during trial projects a different narrative. She said the footage showed Nakeyia Anderson standing over her husband's body and telling him to get up. "You shot me," he said to her in response. The couple got into an argument on the way home from her birthday celebration at a club and it continued once they arrived at their residence. Nakeyia Anderson decided she wanted to leave their home, but Tihomas grabbed her keys and entered the front seat of the car, police said. She reached underneath the passenger seat to grab her gun out of the vehicle. Tihomas then reached for the firearm, according to court documents, and a struggle ensued, during which a fatal shot was fired. "Tihomas would still be alive today if she had not gone and grabbed that gun," Villarreal said. HAMMOND A man is dead after leading Hammond police on a vehicle chase early Wednesday into Chicago and then crashing into the Little Calumet River where his body was later recovered, according to an incident report. The name of the deceased was not yet released by mid morning, but Hammond Police Lt. Steve Kellogg said a female passenger, who jumped from the vehicle during the pursuit, was apprehended and has active warrants related to charges of possessing cocaine. Hobart man sentenced in Valpo bar shooting The dispute continued in the parking lot where Tryton Brewer grabbed a handgun from a vehicle and shot it in the direction of bar patrons and staff, police said. The incident began around 4:10 a.m. Wednesday when Hammond police were notified by its license plate recognition system of a stolen U-Haul in the city, Kellogg said. Officers patrolling in the area of 136th Street and Sheffield Avenue spotted the vehicle and when they attempted to stop it, the driver reportedly fled. The pursuit, which involved speeds of about 30 mph, led to the area of 130th Street and Indiana Avenue in Chicago. "Tragically, as the U-Haul approached a curve in the road, it failed to negotiate the turn and went over the edge, landing in the Little Calumet River," Kellogg said. "The driver hastily exited the U-Haul and attempted to evade capture by swimming away," Kellogg said. "Hammond police officers entered the river for a rescue attempt, but unfortunately, they were unable to locate the suspect after he submerged." Driver led 100 mph chase over marijuana, Portage police say A friend of the accused reportedly told police he told her he had marijuana, which confused her as to why he would run from police "for such a simple thing," according to the report. The Chicago Fire Department responded to the scene and recovered the body of the man, who has yet to be identified, according to police. "Our officers worked tirelessly, but unfortunately, the outcome was tragic," Kellogg said. No Hammond police officers were injured during the call and an investigation is underway. VALPARAISO An area vigilante group has nabbed yet another man accused of approaching what he thought was a child online and then trying to meet up in Valparaiso for sex. "If I go to jail I go to jail," Thomas Gobin, 27, of Valparaiso, reportedly said in a message to the "girl" as the two readied to meet Friday. The 13-year-old girl turned out to be a member of the NWI predator catchers group and Gobin was taken into custody by Valparaiso police. He was charged Tuesday with two felony counts of child solicitation, the more serious count carrying a potential prison term of two to 12 years, records show. The arrest mirrors two others carried out in Valparaiso in September as the vigilante approach continues to be popular, often accompanied by videos of the confrontations posted online. The civilian-driven approach is also being taken more seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors. Valparaiso police said they were contacted early Saturday about a "suspicious" incident involving a man attempting to meet up with a 13-year-old girl for sex, according to a court document. U-Haul driver dead after leading chase, crashing into river, Hammond police say The incident began around 4:10 a.m. Wednesday when Hammond police were notified by its license plate recognition system of a stolen U-Haul in the city, police said. A member of the NWI predator catchers group reportedly told police he posed as a 13-year-old girl on the Grindr dating app and was approached online by a man later identified a Gobin. The group representative provided police with messages he exchanged with Gobin beginning Feb. 2. Gobin, who sent a selfie-style photo of himself, asked the "girl's" age and was told she was 13, police said. When asked why he was on the dating app, Gobin replied, "Fwb (friends with benefits) but I am to old and ur jail trap," according to police. When questioned about the term "jail trap," he reportedly replied, "Yea I can go to jail." Gobin reportedly said he was 28. Hobart man sentenced in Valpo bar shooting The dispute continued in the parking lot where Tryton Brewer grabbed a handgun from a vehicle and shot it in the direction of bar patrons and staff, police said. The conversation then resumes Feb. 12 and again two days later when they again exchanged ages, police said. On Thursday, Gobin attempted to arrange to meet the person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, a court document says. His efforts continued Friday with yet another question about the girl's age. "If only ur 16 lol," he allegedly wrote. When asked why he made the comment, Gobin responded, "Age of consent in Indiana is 16," according to police. Gobin is accused of asking the girl for sex as they made plans late Friday to meet in Valparaiso. Gobin reportedly told police he first believed the girl to be 20, but later learned she was underage, police said. He said the two continued communicating "as friends" and with no sexual content. "Thomas then stated that he was fully aware that if he and the female were to do anything more than a normal conversation that he could go to jail," a charging document says. He later admitted to making a mistake and was presented with the sexual comments he made to what he thought was an underage girl, police said. VALPARAISO A 20-year-old Hobart man was sentenced to three years in prison for a shooting a couple years ago outside a Valparaiso bar, records show. Tryton Brewer was sentenced by Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer after pleading guilty to a felony count of intimidation. The case stems back to Oct. 9, 2021 when Valparaiso police were called to the local Northside Tap bar at 712 Calumet Ave. for a report of shots fired in the parking lot, records show. Police learned a man, later determined to be Brewer, had been involved in a fight with another man. The dispute continued in the parking lot where Brewer grabbed a handgun from a vehicle and shot it in the direction of bar patrons and staff, police said. Prosecutors agreed to drop other charges in this case and another case in return for the guilty plea, records show. DeBoer cited Brewer's history of criminal behavior as a juvenile and adult during sentencing. Valpo man who overdosed while babysitting 4 children faces felony charges, cops say At the time of his overdose, he was babysitting four children ranging in age from 10 to 5, police said. When Brewer is released from custody, is to serve a year on formal probation, according to the sentencing. He is also required participate in a high school equivalency program while locked up. Brewer reportedly has criminal cases pending in neighboring Lake County and in Cook County, Illinois. Crown Point High School trade students recently competed in regional competitions that tested their skills and knowledge. Students in the construction trade program competed in the SkillsUSA Regionals held at the Carpenters Apprentice School in Merrillville on Feb. 10. Sophomore John Sims competed in the Action Skills category and will be moving on to the state competition in April. SkillsUSA competitions showcase the best career and technical education students across the country, with contestants being judged on accuracy, ability to read and interpret blueprints, workmanship, safety, and the proper use of tools, equipment and materials. On the same day, auto technology trade students competed at the Universal Technical Institute Top Tech Challenge in Lisle, Illinois. Students competed in a written test before the top 15 teams advanced to the hands-on portion of the contest. CPHS had two teams compete, with senior Landon Gust and junior Quinten Osburn placing 9th overall in the competition. Both students each received a $1,000 scholarship from UTI. Trade programs, unlike other areas of higher education, are in hot demand Trade programs, unlike other areas of higher education, are in hot demand BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijani Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov discussed prospective forms of Azerbaijani-American cooperation on energy and decarbonization issues during a meeting with his American counterpart Jennifer Granholm in Washington, Trend reports, referring to a press release of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Energy. "The meeting discussed the development of bilateral energy cooperation at a new stage, natural gas supplies to the EU, development of green energy, and issues related to COP29 in Baku in November," the press release noted. The Azerbaijani minister informed the head of the US Energy Department about the progress in the development of green energy corridors Caspian-Black Sea-Europe and Central Asia-Azerbaijan-Europe. "The importance of these corridors is assessed in terms of interregional integration, energy security, and energy transition," the ministry noted. Shahbazov also said Azerbaijan plans to integrate 2 GW of capacity from renewable energy sources into the energy system by 2027, which will raise the share of RES in the country's total installed capacity to 33 percent. "Azerbaijan's socio-economic development strategy concerns the creation of green energy zones in the liberated territories and Nakhchivan," the press release noted. To note, the sides also exchanged views with Granholm on energy storage systems, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and Azerbaijan's initiatives within the framework of COP. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel LAPORTE Mayor Tom Dermody said the city's new police chief is here to stay despite opposition from some police officers. City Attorney Nick Otis told a standing room only crowd at a Tuesday City Council meeting that a change in state law in 1996, upheld by the Indiana attorney generals office in 2005, allows mayors to choose police chiefs from outside the department. Therefore, Otis said a local ordinance adopted in the 1980s requiring the chief be chosen from among current officers was no longer valid. The legislature has clearly spoken, he said. The Feb. 5 appointment of Police Chief Dick Buell was challenged by Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 54 because he came from outside the department. The message conveyed by Mayor Dermody to our department, community and surrounding agencies with this decision is that we have no one fit to lead from within our ranks and the local codes that we are asked to enforce do not apply to Mayor Tom Dermody, the FOP stated in its letter opposing the appointment. LaPorte Police Officer Robert Metcalf, speaking at the meeting on behalf of the FOP, said there are other attorneys who agree with their position on the matter. As of right now with this being a fluid situation we dont know legally where were going to be at 24, 48, a week, two weeks from now, he said. Buell, 70, came out of retirement to accept the offer from Dermody, who praised his 30 years of law enforcement experience as second to none. Dermody also said his old school approach and ability to be a strong leader are needed to develop future leaders out of officers so theyre capable of later running whats now a young department well into the future. Buell spent five years with the LaPorte Police Department before moving on to the LaPorte County Sheriffs Office, where he served in various capacities including chief of detectives and jail commander. He was director of LaPorte County Community Corrections when he retired in 2019. The FOP said in its letter that officers would only recognize newly appointed Assistant Police Chief Matthew Drangmeister, who was chosen from the ranks. The FOP said officers would not recognize Buell as chief, and called upon the mayor to select another chief. In response, Dermody said officers failing to listen to Buell would be dealt with on grounds of insubordination. Dermody also said some of the complaints are from officers not liking the more disciplined approach Buell has brought to the department. Because Dick Buell says youre going to shine your shoes, youre going to square your uniform, youre going to get out of your car and meet with residents and meet with business owners. This is the new standard that we owe the entire department, he said. Some residents at Tuesday's meeting pointed to Buell's age and time away from law enforcement for opposing his appointment. No offense. You should retire. Just go and enjoy your grandchildren, said resident Emily Robben. "Blackmas Carol," a modern spin on Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol," will pay a visit to the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond this weekend. The Morning Bishop Theatre Playhouse, Inc., a community theater based in Gary, will stage the play from this Thursday through Saturday at the Indiana Welcome Center at 770 Corrine Drive just off the Kennedy Avenue exit of the Borman Expressway. Actors from Gary, East Chicago and Merrillville, including adults, children, amateurs and professional actors, will perform the twist on the Victorian holiday tale about how three spirits who teach Ebeneezer Scrooge about the perils of greed and the value of Christmas. The award-winning playwright McKenya Dilworth Smith wrote the play, which follows the formula of "A Christmas Carol" in which the protagonist must be persuaded before changing her mind. "Candice Rooge, the main character of the 'Blackmas Carol,', is skeptical about most things in life but especially about the importance of celebrating Black History Month" Smith said in a press release. "So, as it would go, she is visited by three spirits from the Blackmas Past, Present and Future. Each spirit represents a period in Black history, highlighting the many achievements of Black Americans and how they accomplished those achievements in the face of tremendous challenges. Will Rooge be convinced to celebrate Black History after these visits? Will she see the value in knowing history? Come and see." The play is didactic. "This family-friendly play is sure to engage audiences with its lively performers and technology integration," she said. "This production is camouflaged learning at its best." School matinees will be staged at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. A performance for the general public will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call 219.308.7630 or email theatreofpurpose@gmail.com. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students and seniors and $5 for children under the age of 5 years old. For more information, www.theatreofpurpose.wixsite.com/mckenya-dilworth. A new exhibit at the Porter County Museum recalls the fire that swept downtown Valparaiso in 1926. The collection of historic photographs bears witness to the 1926 blaze that destroyed the Academy of Music and the rest of the block at the southwest corner of Lincolnway and Washington Street in Valparaiso. In terms of serious injury, property destruction, and loss of life, the Academy of Music blaze was perhaps the most eventful of several twentieth-century fires that occurred on Valparaisos courthouse square, each playing a significant role in shaping the downtowns past and present, said Executive Director Kevin Pazour. The three-story brick-and-stone building, built in 1864, housed a variety of enterprises during its sixty-two-year history, including the citys premier theater space, the masonic temple and numerous shops and business offices. The exhibit in the local history museum at 20 Indiana Ave. in the former Aster + Grey boutique space is free and open to the public. These images from nearly a century ago capture the drama of the event, as firefighters battled an enormous conflagration during extreme winter conditions, said Jake Just, the museums Director of Exhibits and Publications. This was the last fire in the city that tragically ended in the death of firefighters; two lost their lives that night. After the flames were finally extinguished, a thick shroud of ice wreathed the ruins. The exhibition is hanging in the Robert Cain Gallery and will run through May 12. Visitors interested in the history of downtown Valpos impactful fires, can take a self-guided fire-history tour beginning just outside the museum at any time, Pazour said. A downloadable guide filled with lots of information about five major fires is available on the museums website: pocomuse.org/special-publications. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, visit pocomuse.org or find the museum on Facebook or Instagram. All David Hinojosa, then a kid growing up in Portage, wanted for Christmas was some movie scripts. His parents, Robert and Rose Hinojosa, had no idea you could even buy screenplays or where you would find them. Hinojosa took a keen interest in film since his childhood in Northwest Indiana, went on to study at one of the country's top film schools and has produced many highly acclaimed indie movies like "First Reformed," "Beatriz at Dinner" and "Bodies Bodies Bodies." He's now up for an Academy Award. Hinojosa produced "Past Lives," which was nominated for Oscars for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. "We're thrilled to death," his father Robert Hinojosa said. "We knew David was really talented and good. But everything really blew up with 'Past Lives.'" Written and directed by Celine Song, "Past Lives" follows two childhood friends Na Young and Hae Sung as they grow apart over 24 years, exploring theme of immigration, attachment to one's homeland, romantic longing, unrequited love and the possibilities of what could have been or what may have been in past lives. It's a poignant story of young classmates who are separated when Na Young's family moves to Toronto and she later moves to New York City to pursue her dream to be a writer, tracing their efforts to reconnect and contemplation of what could have been. Both the National Board of Review and American Film Institute named it one of the top 10 films of the year. It's been nominated for a slew of awards, including five Golden Globes. It's won a heap of honors, including from the Chicago Film Critics Association Awards, Alliance of Women Film Journalists, Asia Pacific Screen Awards, Astra Film and Creative Arts Awards, Austin Film Critics Association Awards, Boston Society of Film Critics Awards, Directors Guild of America Awards, Dublin Film Critics Circle Awards, Florida Film Critics Circle Awards and Hollywood Critics Association. He won a Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Feature. "He's been very busy lately going from one awards show to another while shooting a film in New York City," Robert Hinojosa said Hinojosa just returned from London where "Past Lives" was nominated for three categories in the BAFTAs. His parents, who have since retired to South Carolina, are beaming with pride. "It feels great. It's been such a good year for David," his mother Rose Hinojosa said. "It really blew up." New Portage Mayor Austin Banta recently congratulated Hinojosa on Facebook. "David Hinojosa, who was born and raised in Portage, is a nominee for an Academy Award! Mr. Hinojosa is one of the three producers of 'Past Lives,' which is one of the movies that is up for Best Picture this year!" he posted. "This is so exciting, and I believe I'm speaking for all of us back here in Portage when I say, 'congratulations and good luck at the Oscars from your hometown!'" A fellow teacher who worked with Rose Hinojosa, a now-retired educator, at Kyle Elementary School in Portage notified the mayor he hailed from Portage. "It really blew up on social media," she said. "A lot of people we haven't spoken to for a long time have texted or called. It's been kind of wild." They credit his fourth grade teacher Marlene Pager at Kyle Elementary School with encouraging his writing. "She would bring me over his papers and praise their maturity and the writing," she said. He was later encouraged by drama teacher at Portage High School where he was active in the theater program. He took part in plays like "Chicago," working as both an actor and a producer behind the scenes. "He did almost every production," Robert Hinojosa said. "He did every musical and drama. We want to all his plays at Portage High School. We were always in attendance." Hinojosa also took a film literature class at Portage High School and was featured in a 2004 Times of Northwest Indiana article about a short film he was shooting in the rubble of the old Crisman Elementary School. "In the fourth grade, for Christmas, he asked for movie scripts," Robert Hinojosa said. "We didn't know they even sold those. He kept asking for movie scripts and ended up with piles of them. He figured out early what he wanted to do and never wavered. Some people switch in college but he never wavered." He studied film and television at Boston University and went on to intern and then work for "The Late Show with David Letterman." "With Letterman he was never really in front of the camera," Robert Hinojosa said. "It was a hard job with long hours. That's when he became more drawn to the production side." Hinojosa worked for the Weinstein Company, marketing films like "The King's Speech" and "Blue Valentine." He became a producer for Killer Films and then founded the production company 2AM in 2021, serving as its head of production. Over the course of his career, he's produced many acclaimed indie films such as "Kill Your Darlings," "Shirley," "Vox Lux," "Zola" and "The World to Come." "He and other producers got together and started a small production company," Now they're shooting a film with Nicole Kidman," Robert Hinojosa said. "He's been producing a lot of good work for a long time." He's passionate about film. "He always knew movie trivia like all the old stars," Robert Hinojosa said. "We'd call him to get the answer quick. He could tell you who was in what movie from 1968. He has really good recall and could be relied on for information." David Hinojosa was very serious and observant growing up. "Even when he was six or seven, he was listening and observing," Robert Hinojosa said. "He was catching things since he was a little bitty guy." David Hinojosa plans to take his brother Juan and parents to the Academy Awards in the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. They've been shopping for outfits to make sure they're dressed appropriately. He also brought them to New York City to see the premiere last year. "There was a standing ovation. We knew it was a very good movie," Robert Hinojosa said. "People who have seen it are just mesmerized by it. It's gotten a lot of word of mouth." He continues to work on new projects. 2AM for instance signed on Elizabeth Olsen and May December's Charles Melton to star in director Todd Solondzs new film "Love Child." "David is kind of quiet most of the time but very articulate. He loves his craft," Robert Hinojosa said. "He loves talking about movies and reading about movies and is always reading scripts. He does a lot as a producer. They're not the director and not the screenwriter. But they select the actors, they oversee the shooting, the do budgeting and control the budget and do so many things to make a film." The United Auto Workers union has reached a tentative local contract agreement at the Ford Kentucky Truck Plant, the automaker's largest and most profitable factory. UAW Local 862 had threatened to go on strike Friday after months of negotiations over local issues at the auto plant failed to make headway. The strike of about 9,000 UAW-represented workers was averted. Union workers had concerns about health, safety, ergonomics and the skilled trades. The union said the tentative deal addressed its core issues but did not divulge specifics. Ford, one of the Calumet Region's largest employers, makes Ford F-150 Lightning and Ford F-250 through F-550 Super Duty trucks at the plant in Louisville, Kentucky. "We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with UAW Local 862 covering Kentucky Truck Plant and 8,700 valued UAW-Ford employees," Ford spokesman Dan Barbossa said. "Ford is the No. 1 employer of UAW-represented autoworkers and 2024 is one of our biggest-ever new product launch years in the U.S. - with the all-new Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator launching in Kentucky, the new F-150 and Ranger in Michigan and the new Explorer and Lincoln Aviator in Illinois." After a six-week strike of 150,000 auto workers last fall, the union reached a national contract with 25% raises, a restoration of cost of living adjustments and other gains. But it says dozens of local agreements remain open at Big Three automaker plants across the country, including at 19 Ford plants. The UAW, which represents 400,000 auto workers across the country, also is investing $40 million to organize auto and battery plant workers across the country, especially in the south. It's especially interested in organizing workers in the battery industry as it will replace existing powertrain jobs in the auto industry. The UAW recently got a majority support for unionization at Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Hyundai in Montgomery, Alabama and Mercedes in Vance, Alabama. More than 10,000 auto workers across the country signed union cards to join the UAW since last year's strike. The United Steelworkers has taken its campaign against a Nippon acquisition of U.S. Steel to the White House. The union representing thousands of steelworkers in Northwest Indiana continues to lobby against the $14.9 billion deal, raising concerns about a foreign steelmaker acquiring one of America's most iconic companies and the first U.S. business to ever surpass $1 billion in capitalization. It appealed to the White House, sharing concerns about national security and whether the new owner would enforce its contract since it has so far failed to share financial information. Steel is vital to our national security and critical infrastructure, and USW members are proud to manufacture some of the highest quality products in the world," USW International President David McCall said in a statement. Unfortunately, the proposed sale agreement between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel puts our members and our nations interests in jeopardy. We received personal assurances that President Joe Biden has our backs. Hes always been a friend to the American worker and our union, and were grateful hes taking an interest in this matter. Its essential that we continue to safeguard our domestic steelmaking capacity, and we appreciate the presidents ongoing commitment to revitalizing our critical supply chains and rebuilding our nations economic strength. Nippon Steel pledged that it will cut no jobs, including of the 1,000 workers at U.S. Steel's Pittsburgh headquarters. The Tokyo-based steelmaker said it will bring additional resources, capital and technology to U.S. Steel, such as to further its decarbonization and digitalization efforts. The company said it will make no changes to the current collective bargaining agreement. Nippon Steel, which currently has 620 USW-represented employees, said U.S. Steel employees will keep getting the same paychecks, benefits and profit-sharing under new ownership. U.S. Steel, which was originally capitalized for the equivalent of $50 billion today after Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, Elbert H. Gary and William Henry "Judge" Moore founded it in 1901, put itself up for sale after rival Cleveland-Cliffs offered to buy it for $7.1 billion. Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel, which fueled Northwest Indiana's early growth after founding Gary as a company town in 1906, rejected Cleveland-Cliff's initial bid and also ultimately opted to accept Nippon's bid instead both because it was higher and because it had serious doubts about whether antitrust regulators would allow the last two remaining integrated steelmakers in the United States to merge over the complaints of automakers and other customers, who would stand to lost significant bargaining power. Analysts also have raised concerns that a Cleveland-Cliffs acquisition of U.S. Steel would face antitrust hurdles. The union, which has had positive experiences negotiating with and working with Cleveland-Cliffs over the years, threw its support behind the Cleveland-Cliffs bid and vowed to fight a Nippon takeover. Unlike many of his executive peers, Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves often praises the union, touting it as essential to the American middle class. Our union intends to exercise the full measure of our contract to ensure that whatever happens next with U.S. Steel, we protect the good, family-sustaining jobs we bargained, McCall said. We also will urge government regulators to carefully scrutinize this acquisition. The union objected that U.S. Steel did not consult with it before announcing the sale. It has filed grievances against the company that are working their way through the process proscribed in the contract. Neither U.S. Steel nor Nippon reached out to our union regarding the deal, which is in itself a violation of our partnership agreement that requires U.S. Steel to notify us of a change in control or business conditions, McCall said. We remained open throughout this process to working with U.S. Steel to keep this iconic American company domestically owned and operated, but instead, it chose to push aside the concerns of its dedicated workforce and sell to a foreign-owned company. Nippon has pledged to uphold the contract between USW and U.S. Steel. U.S. Steel disclosed in its U.S. Securities and Exchange filings that it made a point of negotiating assurances that collective bargaining agreements would be honored after a sale. U.S. Steel would essentially operate as a subsidiary of Nippon, maintaining its name, more-than-century-old brand and its headquarters in Pittsburgh. Nippon has previously operated plants in the United States, for instance partnering with Inland Steel in 1990 to build I/N Tek and I/N Kote in New Carlisle. The company said the acquisition secures the long-term future of union jobs. The union has expressed concerns that the steelmaker would continue to go down the same direction, following U.S. Steel's existing business plan. The USW objects to closures of the East Chicago Tin Mill, tin operations at Gary Works, the UPI Tin Mill in California, and operations at Great Lakes Works in Detroit and Granite City Works in Illinois outside of St. Louis. The USW said U.S. Steel has broken promises, including investing $1 billion in new technology in its western Pennsylvania operations. This entire process was not conducted as it should have been, but rather in typical USS fashion of keeping the union in the dark, said Dan Simmons, president of USW Local 1899 at U.S. Steels Granite City Works. We now find ourselves facing a new owner with the same USS leadership and business plan that, frankly, got us here in the first place. U.S. Steel said Nippon's acquisition would not change any day-to-day operations at its mills. The steelmaker said Nippon, the fourth largest steelmaker in the world, has the financial resources to honor the existing contract with the union. The USW raised concerns about national security since steel is used heavily in tanks, Navy vessels and other military vehicles but would be subject to the control of a foreign company whose interests may not always be aligned with U.S. foreign policy. It also expressed worries about fair trade since the federal government imposes 12 separate anti-dumping tariffs on Japanese steel alone. U.S. Steel lobbied for those tariffs but may no longer put American steel production first and foremost if sold to a Japanese company, Simmons said. "We should question if Nippon Steel gets control of U.S. Steel, it could use its status as a domestic producer to work against the trade cases from the inside, he said. Nippon Steel could order U.S. Steel to change its longstanding position. Gary Mayor Eddie Melton was unable to persuade his former Indiana Senate colleagues Tuesday to leave alone a long-running lawsuit filed against numerous gun manufacturers and retailers that Gary claims are responsible for gun violence in the Steel City. The Democratic leader, who served seven years in the Senate prior to taking office as mayor in January, emphatically urged the Republican-led Senate Committee on Corrections and Criminal Law to scuttle House-approved legislation aimed specifically at terminating the city's lawsuit by retroactively prohibiting Gary from filing it. Melton said allowing House Bill 1235 to continue on a path toward becoming law would set a terrible precedent by undermining the ability of communities across Indiana to use the courts to protect their citizens. "Local governments have the right to fight back against bad actors who they believe are harming their community. This is especially important if they believe they are engaged in illegal activities," Melton said. "It seems that the precedent that we would like to set for the private sector is: If you don't like the rules, then you can go to the Legislature, and they'll change them for you." Melton said after decades of dithering by the defendants, Gary simply wants its day in court. And if the General Assembly can support the Republican attorney general in his various crusades against opioid manufacturers and other entities harming Indiana communities, he said it should not deny a majority black city the same opportunity to pursue justice. "Enabling the gun industry to evade accountability at the expense of victims and communities impacted by gun violence significantly contributes to the gun violence epidemic by removing key incentives for the gun industry to adopt life-saving business practices," Melton said. "By shielding irresponsible gun dealers, distributors and manufacturers from the city of Garys lawsuit, House Bill 1235 works to give the gun industry special protection that other industries do not have." Advocates for the legislation unequivocally stated their intent is to retroactively terminate Gary's lawsuit at the request of the gun industry defendants after a similar 2015 attempt to do so did not succeed. In the end, the measure was approved 5-3 by the committee. It will be eligible for revision and approval by the full Senate next week. The proposal ultimately must be endorsed with identical language by a majority of members in the House and the Senate to advance to Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb to be signed into law or vetoed. 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 Hoosier hunters and trappers soon will be permitted to take wild bobcats in at least some of Indiana's 92 counties. The Republican-controlled House voted 65-26 Tuesday to give final approval to legislation directing the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to adopt rules for establishing a bobcat hunting season sometime after July 1, 2025. Senate Enrolled Act 241 previously passed the Senate, 40-9, and next goes to Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb to be signed into law. Supporters of the proposal noted the DNR rulemaking process includes extensive study on whether and where bobcats an endangered species in Indiana until 2005 may be hunted. Once a bobcat hunting season is established, the DNR still may bar bobcats from being taken in some places if a county's bobcat population cannot sustain the hunting. State Rep. Pat Boy, D-Michigan City, who crossed party lines to join most House Republicans in backing the legislation, said bobcats no longer are the endangered or at-risk species they once were in Indiana. "I don't really like the idea of hunting bobcats," Boy said. "But we need to do something so DNR has some kind of control over this." Boy said bobcats have no natural predators in the Hoosier State and a growing record of attacking chickens, rabbits, quail and other livestock. "If they only ate mice and voles it might not be a problem. But it's becoming a problem in a lot of places," Boy said. "We have a lot of bobcats." In addition to Boy, Northwest Indiana lawmakers supporting the bobcat hunting legislation were state Reps. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron; Kendell Culp, R-Rensselaer; Carolyn Jackson, D-Hammond; Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point; Jim Pressel, R-Rolling Prairie; Hal Slager, R-Schererville; and Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso. Region lawmakers voting "no" on the measure were state Reps. Mike Andrade, D-Munster; Earl Harris Jr., D-East Chicago; Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary; Chuck Moseley, D-Portage; and Vernon Smith, D-Gary. According to the DNR, bobcats primarily are found in southern and west-central Indiana, but the ability of bobcats to roam up to 100 miles from where they are born means bobcats have consistently been spotted in Northwest Indiana and throughout the state. DNR data show bobcats typically are about 2-4 feet long with a short "bobbed" tail, have reddish-brown or tan fur above a white belly, weigh 15 to 30 pounds, and hunt rabbits, chicken and other small animals for food during early-morning and late-evening hours. Bobcats generally are solitary creatures and tend to keep away from humans, according to the DNR. 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 The intoxicated young woman got into a fight with her boyfriend. She didnt know where else to go. Take me to PRA, she told him. He drove her to the Portage Recovery Association, a hidden resource in our Region for people recovering from addiction. She was totally (expletive)-faced drunk, recalled Jake Monhaut, a PRA board member. That cold night in January, a group of PRA members just happened to be playing cards inside the building. The young woman sat outside until they noticed she was there. Its a good thing we were here or she would have sat out in the cold until she sobered up, Monhaut said. Like too many communities in Northwest Indiana, Portage doesnt have a designated 24/7 safe spot for people in such conditions. People know were a safe place for them. It doesnt matter if theyre actively drinking or drugging. They come here, Monhaut said. "Anyone who is ready to change their life, we should be ready for them. Our goal is a 24/7 facility." Region residents with nowhere to sleep at night also show up outside the PRA building because they dont know what else to do. The same goes for people with suicidal thoughts or alcoholism issues. Addiction doesnt obey the geographical borders of cities, counties and states. Recovery efforts shouldnt either. It wasnt our drinking. It was our thinking, one member in recovery explained when I first visited PRA in February, 2023. PRA, which marked its 30th anniversary last year, is easy to miss unless you desperately need to find it. The nonprofit organization is tucked away in a strip mall on McCasland Avenue in Portage, across the street from Living Hope Church. Both organizations save lives, rescue souls and convert doubters. No one is turned away, a PRA board member told me at the latest board meeting earlier this month. I was invited there to learn more about PRA and its inner workings. We need help to become the entity that were visualizing, said John W., a board member and recovering alcoholic from Porter County. Hopefully you will see some value in what were doing here. I see immense value in what PRA offers this entire Region. The organization provides a safe, positive environment for members and their families in recovery based on 12-step programs. Its nonjudgmental, nondenominational, and every aspect of PRA is welcoming to guests. Were all in recovery here. No one is getting drunk or high or doing drugs here, said Monhaut, whos been sober for 11 years. But some of us are still looked at as who we used to be. There are times I feel Im looked at as that guy, the guy I used to be." I viewed PRA's latest board meeting as unique. Its members, many whom are in recovery, sat at tables facing each other in a circle. A message on the chalkboard states, This Too Shall Pass So Breathe and Dont Give Up. The monthly meeting had similarities with most board meetings for other organizations and companies: an agenda, a list of reports and updates, and formal votes, motions and other meeting protocol. But the PRA board is different in that no last names are used, protecting the privacy of members in recovery. Addiction still has a huge stigma in society. We represent something that makes some people feel uncomfortable, Monhaut said. Recovery community organizations, or RCOs, such as Portage Recovery are often comprised of 51% members who are in recovery and 49% who are not in recovery. But lets face it. Most of us are recovering from something. Were looking for new board members who have a certain skill or expertise to help us, Danielle Balek told guests at the latest board meeting. PRA already has a group of dedicated volunteer members, but its in need of a governing board of directors to increase its reach, explore new mechanisms of growth, and tap into specialized expertise within the Northwest Indiana community. People such as Donald Spears, a sociology professor and chair of the Human Services program at Ivy Tech Community College in Valparaiso. His expertise is in social problems, economic inequity, and the role of social sciences in medicine and healthcare. His students adopted PRA for its service learning project last semester and conducted a SWOT analysis strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the organization. It's exactly what the organization needs. We view what we did as part of the mission as a community college, Spears told the board. PRA board members hope other professionals and others across Northwest Indiana follow Spears' lead to assist the organization and be a part of its future. Our Region needs places like PRA, and it needs our help. (For more information, call 219-364-6138 or visit portagerecoveryassociation.org.) "We want to make serious change on how people in recovery are viewed," Monhaut said. "But we need some help to get there." President Biden said last week that he was looking at a whole number of options to make good on his 2021 warning to Vladimir Putin that Russia would face devastating consequences if Aleksei Navalny were to die in prison. Now that Putin has treated that warning with his customary contempt, Biden needs to act as a matter of moral clarity and personal credibility, and for the strategic imperative of demonstrating to a dictator that American threats arent hollow. But how? Some analysts suggest that the administration, which on Tuesday vowed to impose tougher sanctions, will struggle to find ways to make them more effective, and that the best single policy to hurt Putin is to continue supporting Ukraine militarily. Theyre right about the second point. As several close Russia watchers told me, however, theres much more to be done about the first. There are four broad approaches. Finances: The single most important thing we can do to hit back at Putin is to enact legislation to confiscate the $300 billion of frozen Russian bank reserves for the defense and reconstruction of Ukraine, Bill Browder, investor and political activist, wrote me on Monday. Browder is best known as the moving force behind the Magnitsky Acts, which put sanctions on Russian officials implicated in corruption and other abuses. Browders suggestion isnt new. And its been resisted by U.S. government officials who fear that it exceeds what American law allows and would encourage a flight from dollar assets. But as the Harvard legal scholar Larry Tribe and a team of experts from the firm of Kaplan, Heckler & Fink noted last year in a report for the Renew Democracy Initiative, seizing Russias assets is explicitly allowed as a countermeasure, an act designed to compel an aggressor to come into compliance with international law. As for the flight-from-the-dollar argument, it might otherwise be persuasive if the need to save Ukraine and punish Russia werent more urgent. A former F.B.I. informant accused of making false bribery claims about President Biden and his son Hunter which were widely publicized by Republicans claimed to have been fed information by Russian intelligence, according to a court filing on Tuesday. In the memo, prosecutors portrayed the former informant, Alexander Smirnov, 43, as a serial liar incapable of telling the truth about even the most basic details of his own life. But Mr. Smirnov told federal investigators that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about Hunter Biden. Those disclosures, including Mr. Smirnovs unverifiable claim that he met with Russian intelligence officials as recently as three months ago, made him a flight risk and endangered national security, Justice Department officials said. Mr. Smirnov had been held in custody in Las Vegas, where he has lived since 2022, since his arrest last week. He was released from custody on Tuesday on a personal recognizance bond after a detention hearing, said his lawyers, David Chesnoff and Richard Schonfeld. Fans of the intrepid New York City Ballet principal Sara Mearns and of the distinguished choreographer Jamar Roberts might want to mark their calendars. This year, they will be artists in residence at the Vail Dance Festival. Both will teach master classes and participate in community events, and Mearns will perform in a range of works, including debuts in George Balanchines Elegie and a new piece by Roberts. The festival, July 26 to Aug. 5 in Vail, Colo., has specialized in bringing together an eclectic variety of dance genres and performers since Damian Woetzel, the former City Ballet principal who is now the president of the Juilliard School, became its artistic director in 2006. In an email, Woetzel said the festivals central poles were to create opportunities for dancers in varied repertory and to foster unexpected pairings among dancers, choreographers and musicians, who this year include the quartet Brooklyn Rider, the composer Caroline Shaw and the bass-baritone Davone Tines. This season offers new works by the contemporary choreographers Kyle Abraham and Pam Tanowitz, the tap virtuoso Michelle Dorrance, and the classical dance makers Lauren Lovette, Justin Peck and Tiler Peck. The starry lineup of dancers includes members of City Ballet and American Ballet Theater, as well as contemporary and tap dancers and a ballroom duo. Broadway THE NOTEBOOK Nicholas Sparkss 1996 novel (adapted for the screen in 2004) is now a sweeping musical tale of romantic idealism and the decades-long love between Allie and Noah. The Chicago Tribune gave a glowing review to the 2022 Chicago Shakespeare Theater premiere, and several performers from the Chicago cast, including Maryann Plunkett as Older Allie, will reprise their roles. The show features a book by Bekah Brunstetter (This Is Us) and music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson, with Michael Greif and Schele Williams directing. Now playing at the Schoenfeld Theater, Manhattan. THE WHOS TOMMY The show, with music and lyrics by Pete Townshend who wrote the book with Des McAnuff, was on Broadway 30 years ago, but this new take, which had its premiere at the Goodman Theater in Chicago, is very heavy on visual spectacle (and, egad, how theatrical effects have changed in three decades!). Tommy is a traumatized child who witnesses violence and loses his ability to see, hear and speak. He plays mean pinball, though, and in the strange spectacle becomes something of a messiah. The leads, including Ali Louis Bourzgui (Tommy), Alison Luff (Mrs. Walker) and Adam Jacobs (Captain Walker), are revisiting the roles they played at the Goodman. Choreography is by Lorin Latarro (Waitress), and McAnuff directs. Performances begin March 8 at the Nederlander Theater, Manhattan. Ewen MacIntosh, a British actor and comedian acclaimed for his dry portrayal of Keith Bishop, a lackluster accountant, on the British sitcom The Office, died on Monday in the English town of Darlington. He was 50. His management company, Just Right Management, did not cite cause but said that he had suffered from ill health for the past two years, and that he had received support from a residential care home before he died. Mr. MacIntosh was seen in several comedy films and television series, including the sketch show Little Britain. But it was on the mockumentary series The Office that he had his most famous role, as a socially inept accountant working at a boring branch of a paper company. Created by Ricky Gervais (who played the annoying boss) and Stephen Merchant, The Office focused on the horrors and trivial lives of office workers. It made its debut in 2001 and ran for two seasons, plus a Christmas special. Critics praised its comedic approach, and its unflinching mining of the details of office politics, from social missteps and unbearable colleagues to self-important managers, resonated with audiences. Ukrainian troops feared missing after retreat Hundreds of Ukrainian troops may have been captured by Russian forces during Ukraines chaotic retreat from the eastern city of Avdiivka, according to senior Western officials and soldiers fighting for Ukraine. Estimates varied for how many Ukrainians were missing or captured, but two soldiers with knowledge of the retreat estimated that 850 to 1,000 soldiers were gone. (Ukrainian military commanders have attempted to downplay the numbers, and a precise count may not be possible until Ukraine solidifies new defensive lines.) American officials said losing Avdiivka was not a significant strategic setback. But the capture of hundreds of soldiers, and the intense blow to morale that would cause at a time when Ukraine is running low on fighters, could change that calculus. The Ukrainian military wants to mobilize an additional 500,000 soldiers, but the request has faced political resistance and is stalled in Parliament. Losing hundreds of soldiers, especially battlefield veterans, would sharpen the need and could complicate recruiting efforts. Boeing said on Wednesday that it was shaking up the leadership in its commercial airplanes unit after a harrowing incident last month during which a piece fell off a 737 Max 9 jet in flight. Ed Clark, the head of Boeings 737 Max program, which includes the Max 9, is leaving immediately, Stan Deal, the chief executive of the commercial airplanes unit, said in a memo to employees. Boeing, which also announced other leadership changes, has been under pressure from regulators, airlines and members of Congress to prove that it is committed to making safe planes. Boeing said recently that it was overhauling its quality control process, including increased inspections at the factory in Renton, Wash., where Mr. Clark oversaw Max production. The leadership changes are the companys most prominent attempt to show it is holding itself accountable for the Jan. 5 incident that left a fuselage hole in an Alaska Airlines plane. Mr. Clark took over the Max program in 2021 as the company was accelerating production of the plane, which had been banned from flight worldwide for 20 months after two fatal crashes killed 346 people. Those crashes cost Boeing billions of dollars, damaged its image and attracted more scrutiny of the company from regulators worldwide. The News Residents in the German community where Tesla has its only assembly plant in Europe overwhelming rejected the companys plan to expand its facilities, dealing a blow to the U.S. automaker and local supporters. Sixty-five percent of citizens in Grunheide who voted opted against Teslas proposal to clear 250 acres of forest near its plant to build a rail yard, warehouses and a day care center. The vote was nonbinding, but local officials said they would honor it by heading back to the drawing board to try to find an acceptable solution. That is the big challenge for the community, Arne Christiani, the mayor of Grunheide and a supporter of the expansion, told public broadcaster Inforadio rbb on Wednesday. Tesla did not respond to repeated requests for comment. But the company defended its plans in local media, while acknowledging that the citizens of Grunheide have concerns in connection with the planned expansion of the site. A few weeks ago, my 12-year-old daughter showed me a video created by a Dallas clothing store called Dear Hannah Prep, depicting a girls first time visiting the preppiest boutique in Texas. How excited are you? an off-camera voice asks. Im so excited! the girl says. Then she opens the door, gasps and declares, Its so preppy in here! That this moment had become a meme, spawning an array of other videos riffing on the original (we see the girl enter a derelict classroom or padded cell and swoon, each time, that its so preppy in here) was far less confusing to me than the fact that people were calling this store an all-white box exploding with smiley-face sweatshirts, tie-dyed fuzzy bathrobes and a generally berserk neon beachiness preppy. That, I told my daughter, is not preppy. I did not have much hope of persuading her that millions of teenagers on TikTok were wrong and her 50-year-old mother who does, in fact, own a copy of Lisa Birnbachs 1980 The Official Preppy Handbook was right, but it seemed worth trying. I looked around her room, and for lack of any stray loafers or rumpled chinos to use as examples, I touched the top of an antique oak dresser that was once her grandmothers. This is preppy, I said. She rolled her eyes: Mom, that dresser is super cottagecore, and that is not my aesthetic at all. My daughters preppy is not my idea of preppy the prep of actual New England prep schools, of frayed Oxford cloth and WASPy noblesse oblige. Nor is it the aspirational varsity style of Tommy Hilfiger and 1990s rappers in rugby shirts, or even J. Crews self-conscious 2010s update on old-money style. Those meanings havent vanished; a great deal has been written about them lately, much of it connected to Avery Trufelmans erudite series American Ivy, released on her podcast in 2022. But those iterations are now known, in the TikTok world, as old preppy. The new sort fills its Pinterest pages with something else: colorful Stanley mugs, tiered pink micro-minis, bulbed makeup mirrors and Brazilian Bum Bum Creams. Part of what makes it hard to describe is that it is not rooted in any specific culture; it seems to be largely about being fun and a girl and buying things packaged with a bright color on a white background. There is no deep ethos to it, no shared experience other than posting videos of shopping hauls or makeup routines pastimes usually engaged in alone, in your bedroom. The director Denis Villeneuve and the actor Timothee Chalamet bound into the room talking at, and over, each other in rapid French. Villeneuve is from Quebec; Chalamet was born in New York City but has dual American and French citizenship. Together, theyre a dynamic tag team dressed near-identically in head-to-toe black, although Chalamets shiny leather layers have more swagger. The topic of the day is galactic genocide and dubious messiahs, central themes in Dune: Part Two, the second installment of their cerebral space epic based on the 1965 novel by Frank Herbert. Yet, the pair are prone to giggle fits. We didnt see each other since a while, so its like a holiday, Villeneuve, 56, said apologetically, switching to English. When coffee arrives at the room at the Four Seasons hotel in Los Angeles, the two clink mugs. Thats our spice, he chuckled, referring to the psychedelic substance found only on the movies planet Arrakis. In Dune, spice is the most valuable resource in the universe. Herbert conceived of it as a glittering dust with the power to expand minds, fuel interstellar travel and incite bloody battles over its distribution. Combine the brain-melting effects of peyote, the geopolitical strife over oil and the violence of Prohibition-era bootlegging. Multiply that by the number of stars in the sky and you get the idea. The previous Dune, released in 2021, won six Academy Awards. It climaxed with Chalamets sheltered scion, Paul Atreides, abducted from his familys spice-mining compound and left to die in the scorching Arrakis desert, patrolled by fanged sandworms the size of the Empire State Building. To survive Part Two, Pauls mother, Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), encourages the Fremen, a tribe of desert-dwellers, to believe that her son is their long-awaited savior. The danger is that Paul might be swayed to believe it, too, even as the hallucinogenic spice peppers him with visions of a jihad waged in his name. If the prophet dies, so does the future, the director Raoul Peck says early in Lumumba: Death of a Prophet. The movie, a personal essay in the form of a history lesson, is as much a poem as it is a documentary. Made in 1990 and showing for a week at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in a 4K restoration of the original 16-millimeter film, Death of a Prophet looks and feels newly minted. Patrice Lumumba, the first democratically elected leader of the former Belgian Congo, was brought down after a few months in power by internecine rivalry, hysterical anti-Communism and imperialist greed. His fate was sealed in the post-independence ceremonies when he followed the patronizing speech by King Baudouin of Belgium with a blunt jaccuse, citing Belgian racism and colonial oppression. A civil war ensued. With Belgian support, the mineral-rich Katanga province was encouraged by Belgian mining interests to secede, and the white-dominated Force Publique, the Belgian colonial army, revolted. Ridiculed and vilified in the Western press, Lumumba who would be hailed by Malcolm X as the greatest Black man who ever walked the African continent was killed in early 1961 after being undermined by the United Nations and betrayed by his allies, including his successor, the strongman Joseph-Desire Mobutu. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, February 21. Turkmenistan and India discussed the implementation of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, Trend reports. These issues were discussed between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Turkmenistan Madhumita Hazarika Bhagat. During the meeting, the parties noted the importance for all participating countries of the project for the construction of this transnational gas pipeline. They noted that the implementation of this project will contribute to the economic growth of the participating countries, create new jobs, build social and industrial infrastructure facilities, as well as attract significant foreign investment. Additionally, the parties acknowledged the productive cooperation between Turkmenistan and India in the trade and economic spheres, encompassing sectors such as fuel, energy, transport, agriculture, and the textile industry. Meanwhile, Turkmenistan is making significant efforts in the development of the TAPI gas pipeline, seeking to strengthen its role as a leading supplier of natural gas in the region. Turkmenistan's strategic participation in this project highlights its commitment to diversify export routes and strengthen energy security. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel After Sandra Huller learned that two movies she stars in Anatomy of a Fall and The Zone of Interest had been selected for the competition at last years Cannes Film Festival, she was a little apprehensive about what it might mean for her anonymity. The German actress has always had a prickly relationship with fame: Aside from her role in the bittersweet 2016 feature Toni Erdmann, she has mainly kept a low profile, working in German theater. But what happened next outstripped even her boldest expectations. Anatomy of a Fall, a French drama in which Huller plays a woman accused of murdering her husband, went on to win the Palme dOr, the festivals top honor, and The Zone of Interest, a Holocaust film, took the Grand Prix, or runner-up prize. The Los Angeles Times crowned her the queen of Cannes, and, in a few weeks, she will travel from her home in Leipzig, Germany, to Hollywood for the Oscars, where she is nominated for best actress, for Anatomy. This attention has been challenging for Huller at times overwhelmingly so and now she is grappling with what the nomination, and its accompanying scrutiny, means for her and her career. It means being accepted into a circle of people I wasnt in before, she said, in a recent interview in Leipzig. But I dont know if it means success, or it will make anything easier. In the late 1970s, a writer working on a book about the Eagles that would never be published obtained 100-odd pages of notes and lyrics related to the multiplatinum album Hotel California. The papers included handwritten drafts of lyrics by the bands songwriter and drummer, Don Henley. Decades later, according to court documents, the writer, Ed Sanders, sold the trove to a prominent dealer in rare manuscripts who had placed the papers of Norman Mailer and Tom Wolfe in university libraries and had worked to sell Bob Dylans archive for a sum estimated at up to $20 million. In 2022, prosecutors in Manhattan said that the manuscript dealer, Glenn Horowitz, and two other men had been charged with conspiring to possess stolen property valued at over $1 million that included embryonic versions of hits like Hotel California, New Kid in Town and Life in the Fast Lane. On Wednesday, the three men went on trial in an unusual proceeding that may feature testimony from Mr. Henley, who told a grand jury the material was stolen. During opening statements in State Supreme Court before Justice Curtis Farber, who will decide the case, a prosecutor said that the drafts, handwritten on yellow legal pads, were invaluable artifacts that showed how deeply committed Mr. Henley was to the songwriting craft, meticulously revising and refining his language. A man identified by federal prosecutors as a leader of Japans Yakuza organized crime syndicate was charged on Wednesday with trafficking uranium and plutonium from Myanmar with the expectation that Iran would use the material to make nuclear weapons. The man, Takeshi Ebisawa, is accused of conspiring with associates to sell the weapons-grade material and illegal narcotics and to buy surface-to-air missiles and other weapons on behalf of an ethnic insurgent group in Myanmar, the country formerly known as Burma. It is impossible to overstate the seriousness of the conduct alleged in todays indictment, Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney in Manhattan, said in announcing the charges. Mr. Ebisawa, 60, is being held in a federal jail in Brooklyn after being charged in 2022, along with three co-defendants, with international drug and weapons trafficking crimes. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges. He is scheduled to appear in Federal District Court in Manhattan on the new charges on Thursday. A man charged with participating in a plot hatched in Iran to assassinate Masih Alinejad, an Iranian American human rights activist and a sharp critic of Irans repression of women, has been extradited to the United States, American authorities said on Wednesday. The man, Polad Omarov, 39, was turned over to representatives of the U.S. government at Vaclav Havel Airport in Prague on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the Czech Justice Ministry. He was arrested in the Czech Republic in January 2023. A federal indictment unsealed in New York last year said Mr. Omarov and three co-conspirators were part of an Eastern European criminal organization known by its members as Thieves-in-Law, which has ties to Iran and in 2022 was given the assignment to kill Ms. Alinejad, a journalist in Brooklyn. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan have said that Mr. Omarov, a citizen of Georgia, held a leadership role in the organization and resided in Eastern Europe. On Feb. 8, a woman was found dead in a Manhattan hotel room, bludgeoned to death with an iron. This week, the police announced that a 26-year-old man suspected of committing the crime had been arrested in Arizona, where he was accused of stabbing another woman a few days after the homicide in New York. A Manhattan prosecutor flew to Arizona to discuss bringing the man back to face charges. In most homicide cases across the country, it would be a routine extradition. But on Wednesday, an Arizona prosecutor refused, saying she did not believe Alvin L. Bragg, Manhattans district attorney, could be trusted to keep him behind bars. Rachel Mitchell, the Maricopa County attorney, said at a news conference on Wednesday that her team would not work with Mr. Bragg, whose office is seeking to charge the man, Raad Almansoori, in the killing of 38-year-old Denisse Oleas-Arancibia. Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by the Manhattan D.A. there, Alvin Bragg, Ms. Mitchell told reporters, I think its safer to keep him here and keep him in custody, so that he cannot be out doing this to individuals either in our state, county, or anywhere in the United States. To the Editor: Re To Save Museums, Treat Them Like Highways, by Laura Raicovich and Laura Hanna (Opinion guest essay, Feb. 11): The writers have a clever idea to camouflage cultural funding by equating it with highway building and maintenance. I applaud their ingenuity: Fixing a leaky roof is less controversial than supporting the art on the walls or the movie screens below. Executive directors of every arts organization waste vast amounts of time, energy, talent (and money!) raising money. During the pandemic, the government through various programs awarded generous amounts based on the budget of the nonprofit, saving many of us from disaster. A similar approach, rather than the National Endowment for the Arts minuscule budget, apportioning funds according to highly subjective criteria, would make sense. Unfortunately, this does not resolve the underlying problem of why Americans put so little value on the arts. Karen Cooper New York The writer was director of Film Forum from 1972 to 2023. To the Editor: Laura Raicovich and Laura Hanna wrote that we need to stop treating museums, theaters and galleries like sacred spaces and start treating them more like infrastructure. Over the weekend Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio went to the Munich Security Conference to play an unpopular part a spokesman, at a gathering of the Western foreign policy establishment, for the populist critique of American support for Ukraines war effort. If you were to pluck a key phrase from his comments, it would be world of scarcity, which Vance used five times to describe the American strategic situation: stretched by our global commitments, unable to support Ukraine while simultaneously maintaining our position in the Middle East and preparing for a war in East Asia and therefore forced to husband our resources and expect our allies in Europe to counter Russias armaments and ambitions. In my Saturday column I wrote about the tensions in the hawkish case for U.S. spending on Ukraine, the tendency for the argument to veer from boosterism (Weve got Putin on the ropes!) to doomsaying (Putins getting stronger every day!) while describing the same strategic landscape. The case Vance pressed in Munich is more consistent, and its premises not isolationist but Asia-first, more concerned about the Taiwan Strait than the Donbas have supplied the common ground for Republican critics of our Ukraine policy since early in the war. But consistency is not the same as correctness, and its worth looking for a moment at why this kind of argument makes Ukraine hawks so frustrated. Its Never Too Late is a series that tells the stories of people who decide to pursue their dreams on their own terms. Lyn Slater will be the first to tell you her life has been a series of happy accidents and purposeful metamorphoses. Because Im constantly reinventing myself, my life is always a surprise. Im an improvisational person. I dont plan. Im very in the moment, said Ms. Slater, 70, a former professor of social work at Fordham University in New York. That thinking has served me well. It has created endless adventures, surprises, incredible friendships and profound learning. When Meta shared the raw computer code needed to build a chatbot last year, rival companies said Meta was releasing poorly understood and perhaps even dangerous technology into the world. Now, in an indication that critics of sharing A.I. technology are losing ground to their industry peers, Google is making a similar move. Google released the computer code that powers its online chatbot on Wednesday, after keeping this kind of technology concealed for many months. Much like Meta, Google said the benefits of freely sharing the technology called a large language model outweighed the potential risks. The company said in a blog post that it was releasing two A.I. language models that could help outside companies and independent software developers build online chatbots similar to Googles own chatbot. Called Gemma 2B and Gemma 7B, they are not Googles most powerful A.I. technologies, but the company argued that they rivaled many of the industrys leading systems. Primary season is officially underway for the 22 million registered voters in California. Ballots have already gone out for the March 5 primary, in which voters will choose their nominees for president, and also weigh in on a number of state and local contests that could have big ramifications for the states future. Voters will have their say on a ballot measure championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom that would finance mental health treatment; choose candidates for the State Legislature; and decide many local races, including the crowded contest for district attorney in Los Angeles. Ballots were sent on Feb. 5 to every registered voter in the state, and they can be returned by mail or handed in at secure drop-off locations or county elections offices. Some locations for early in-person voting will open on Saturday. Here are some of the key races. Dianne Feinsteins Senate seat When Dianne Feinstein died in September, the U.S. Senate seat that she had held for more than three decades fell vacant. Newsom swiftly appointed Laphonza Butler to serve until elections could be held to fill the vacancy, and Butler decided not to run, clearing the way for an open primary race. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The Azerbaijan Energy Regulatory Agency (AERA) and the National Commission of Georgia for the Regulation of Energy and Water Supply (GNERC) have agreed to share experience in energy issues, Trend reports via AERA. This agreement was reflected in a memorandum of understanding in the field of energy regulation signed between AERA and GNERC. The document was signed by the Chairman of the Board of AERA Samir Akhundov, and the Chairman of GNERC David Narmania. The memorandum aims to develop and strengthen cooperation in the field of energy regulation, as well as create favorable conditions for the advancement of bilateral relations between AERA and GNERC. Under the memorandum, the parties will also exchange information to develop legislation in this field, organize training programs on various topics, including the regulation of renewable energy and energy efficiency. To note, AERA and GNERC have longstanding partnership relations. The parties have successfully collaborated within the framework of the Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA). Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Oregons state senate failed to advance a bill on Tuesday that would have abolished daylight saving time in most of the state and switched it to standard time for the entire year, the latest chapter in an effort by states to settle on whether clocks need to fall back or spring forward at all. The bill proposed that the part of the state in the Pacific Time Zone almost all of the state is, save Malheur County, which is on Mountain time abolish the annual one-hour change in time from standard time to daylight saving time. The measure isnt entirely dead: The state senate sent the bill back to committee to be amended to make sure that if it were to happen Oregon wouldnt be the only state in the region switching to permanent standard time. Lawmakers in Oregons neighboring states have proposed similar bills. In Idaho this week, a bill was introduced to get rid of daylight saving time, and there is a similar bill in front of Californias Assembly. In Washington State, a bill to abolish daylight saving time and return to permanent standard time failed last month. After the Supreme Court struck down President Bidens plan to cancel billions of dollars in student loan debt, borrowers wondered how he would make good on his promise to tackle debt burdening millions of Americans. The answer: He would do it bit by bit. Mr. Biden on Wednesday canceled $1.2 billion in student loan debt, bringing the total amount that he has wiped out during his time in office to $138 billion for 3.9 million borrowers. It is a far cry from his initial plan, which would have canceled up to $400 billion in debt for about 43 million borrowers. But even Mr. Bidens critics acknowledge that he has gone further than any of his predecessors in relieving the debt burden for millions of borrowers. Its good for the economy as a whole, Mr. Biden said on Wednesday, speaking to a small crowd at a library in Culver City, Calif. By freeing millions of Americans from the crushing debt of student loan programs, it means they can finally get on with their lives. Sidney Powell, L. Lin Wood and several other lawyers who advanced former President Donald J. Trumps false claims of a stolen election will face legal penalties after the Supreme Court declined to take up their appeal. The penalties upwards of $130,000 in legal fees incurred by the election officials they sued, plus referrals to their state bar associations for potential discipline stem from a lawsuit the lawyers filed in Michigan in November 2020. That suit, one of dozens in the sweeping effort by Mr. Trumps campaign and allies to challenge Joseph R. Biden Jr.s victory, alleged that state officials had schemed to fraudulently and illegally manipulate the vote count. A district court in Michigan in December 2020 rejected the lawsuits call for officials to decertify the states true election results and falsely certify Mr. Trump as having won Michigan. And in 2021, the same court imposed the penalties on nine lawyers behind the lawsuit, saying those lawyers had abused the judicial process by making claims not backed by law or evidence, by not investigating those claims before leveling them in legal filings and by dragging out the proceedings. Despite the haze of confusion, commotion and chaos counsel intentionally attempted to create by filing this lawsuit, one thing is perfectly clear: Plaintiffs attorneys have scorned their oath, flouted the rules, and attempted to undermine the integrity of the judiciary along the way, the court wrote, chastising Ms. Powell, Mr. Wood and the other lawyers: Scott Hagerstrom, Julia Haller, Brandon Johnson, Stefanie Lynn Junttila, Howard Kleinhendler, Emily Newman and Gregory J. Rohl. Like thousands of people in southern Arizona, Josh Ramoss fate is intertwined with the University of Arizona. His mothers job as a university accountant supports the family, and Mr. Ramoss education, by qualifying him for a discount that cuts his tuition by 75 percent. This job has brought us a lot of stability, said Mr. Ramos, 18, a college freshman. But the University of Arizona stunned the state late last year by revealing a $177 million shortfall in its more than $2 billion annual budget. Now, as the 40,000-student campus braces for layoffs, Mr. Ramos is worried. About his mothers job. About having to drop out. About his familys future. And the whole state is worried that southern Arizona will suffer if the regions largest, most dependable employer loses credibility and trust. The turmoil has shaken the heavily Democratic city of Tucson, where many residents and university employees blame mismanagement at the top. The intimidating myth of an all-powerful military in Pakistan has been smashed in public view. The first cracks began to appear two years ago, when thousands of Pakistanis rallied alongside an ousted prime minister who had railed against the generals iron grip on politics. A year later, angry mobs stormed military installations and set them aflame. Now comes another searing rebuke: Voters turned out in droves this month for candidates aligned with the expelled leader, Imran Khan, despite a military crackdown on his party. His supporters then returned to the streets to accuse the military of rigging the results to deny Mr. Khans allies a majority and allow the generals favored party to form a government. The political jockeying and unrest have left Pakistan, already reeling from an economic crisis, in a turbulent muddle. But one thing is clear: The military long respected and feared as the ultimate authority in this nuclear-armed country of 240 million people is facing a crisis. Its rumblings can be heard in once unthinkable ways, out in the open, among a public that long spoke of the military establishment only in coded language. The U.S. warned that Russia could put a nuclear weapon in space U.S. intelligence agencies have told their closest European allies that if Russia is going to launch a nuclear weapon into orbit, it will probably do so this year. But, they warned, it might instead launch a harmless dummy warhead to leave the West guessing about its capabilities. The assessment came amid a U.S. intelligence scramble: Officials have been conducting a series of rushed, classified briefings for their NATO and Asian allies, as details began to leak out. But U.S. intelligence agencies are divided, and officials have low confidence in their analysis of whether Russia is ready to launch such a space weapon. The consequences of such a weapon are clearer. It could disrupt communications by destroying the commercial and military satellites that have reshaped global communications capabilities. Response: President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow was categorically against placing nuclear weapons in space. The Russian defense minister said the warning was manufactured to get Congress to authorize more aid for Ukraine. Russian forces in recent days have launched multiple attacks around the southern Ukrainian village of Robotyne, military officials and experts said, targeting land hard-won by Ukraine in a rare success of its counteroffensive last summer. The Ukrainian Army said it had repelled four consecutive days of assaults from Saturday to Tuesday involving armored vehicles and large numbers of troops that had massed in the area. Open-source maps of the battlefield compiled by independent groups analyzing combat footage suggest that Russia has made marginal gains to the west and south of Robotyne. The Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based research group, said on Monday that Russian forces had advanced to the western outskirts of the village. Pay attention to the village of Robotyne, Dmytro Lykhovii, a spokesman for Ukrainian forces fighting in the area, said on national television last week. It seems that the Russians have set a goal of achieving some success there and planned to try to seize the village, he said. Amid widespread food shortages and a breakdown in civil order, groups of desperate civilians in Gaza are regularly attempting to ambush aid convoys, according to two Western officials who were recently in the enclave and images of one such ambush reviewed by The New York Times. In the images, several dozen young men, some of them carrying clubs, attempt to block the passage of a convoy of trucks as they drive along a major highway in southern Gaza after entering the territory from Egypt. The trucks are briefly forced off the road as the drivers swerve to avoid hitting the men. Some of the assailants throw stones at the trucks windshields, seemingly to try to stop them. The images, with time stamps indicating they were taken in recent days, were reviewed by a reporter for The Times. Such attacks have become common since Israels invasion last year as desperate civilians face starvation in pockets of the enclave, according to the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to avoid complicating their work in Gaza. In one recent attack, assailants threw an ax at a drivers cabin, attempting to break into it, while in another the attackers hurled a cement block, according to one of the officials. Syrian state media reported on Wednesday that an airstrike on a residential building in Damascus had killed two people, and said that Israel was responsible for the attack. The Israeli military declined to comment on the strike, which the Syrian governments official SANA news agency said hit a building in the Kafr Sousa neighborhood just after 9:30 a.m. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the war in Syria, said that a third person had been killed by shrapnel from the attack, which also damaged surrounding buildings. A strike last February in the same neighborhood killed at least five people. At the time, a senior Western diplomat said the strike was targeting Iranians near a site used by the Iranian military. While Israel did not comment on the latest attack, it has acknowledged hundreds of past strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria. Israeli forces killed three people and detained at least 14 others in an overnight raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, the Israeli military said on Wednesday. The military said that the raid had targeted terrorism and was part of a broader operation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The Palestinian Authoritys news agency, Wafa, said Israeli forces had stormed two houses in a densely packed area of Jenin, resulting in violent confrontations. The agency reported that a 26-year-old man had been killed, three people had been injured and homes and vehicles were damaged. It said eight Palestinians had been detained during the raid, which began when undercover Israeli special forces entered the area. Most of the violence was in a crowded neighborhood of the city that was founded more than 70 years ago as a refugee camp for Palestinians displaced in the wars surrounding the creation of the state of Israel. The neighborhood has long been a bastion of armed resistance against the Israeli occupation of the West Bank. Israeli military raids there, common for years, have become far more frequent since the Hamas-led terrorist attack launched against Israel from Gaza on Oct. 7. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Germany shows serious interest in the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), Permanent Representative of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Azerbaijan Heiko Schwarz said during the conference on reconstruction of water supply and sewerage infrastructure in the Karabakh region, Trend reports. He recalled that last month State Secretary and Special Commissioner of the German Foreign Ministry for International Climate Policy Jennifer Morgan visited Baku, and very fruitful talks were held with various ministries during the visit. "As you know, in November this year, Azerbaijan will host the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), and Germany is particularly interested in this conference. COP29 will be a huge success. We will do everything in our power to support and help make it a success," he said. To note, the decision to host COP29 in Azerbaijan was officially announced in Dubai on December 11, 2023. Azerbaijan will host the event in November 2024. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel A jury in New Mexico found the armorer of Rust guilty of involuntary manslaughter on Wednesday. She had loaded the gun that Alec Baldwin was rehearsing with on a film set in 2021 when it fired a live round and killed the movies cinematographer. The trial of the armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was the first time a trial jury weighed in on the Oct. 21, 2021, shooting on the set of the film Rust, which claimed the life of its cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins. A grand jury indicted Mr. Baldwin in January on a charge of involuntary manslaughter in the shooting; he has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to be tried separately in July. Neither Ms. Gutierrez-Reed nor Mr. Baldwin testified at the trial, which began Feb. 22 at the First Judicial District Courthouse in Santa Fe, N.M., and lasted two weeks. The jury reached its verdict after two and a half hours of deliberations. Ms. Gutierrez-Reed, 26, faces up to 18 months in prison. Prosecutors said Ms. Gutierrez-Reed failed to properly check that the rounds she loaded into the .45-caliber revolver were all dummy rounds, which are inert cartridges used to resemble live rounds on camera but which cannot be fired. A Quebec art teacher is being accused of selling his high school students artworks on his website without their consent for personal profit. An art teacher at the Westwood Junior High School in Saint Lazare has landed in hot water with the parents of several of his students for allegedly selling their drawings and paintings online without their knowledge and permission. The discovery was made by accident when one of the students searched his name on Google only to discover one of his art class drawings listed for sale on his teachers website. Word spread around the school, and before long, other students reported their own artworks had been listed online by the teacher. Some of the kids told their parents about the bizarre practice, and they appealed to the high school board for clarification. Now, some parents are asking for moral and punitive damages from both the art teacher and the high school. Photo: Barbara Froes/Unsplash The items, priced between 30USD and 120USD, were used without the consent of their creators, in bad faith, and in violation of all laws related to the intellectual property of an artist, the parents complaint reads. Nothing authorized Mr. P. to appropriate the work of his students for personal gains. This act is even more egregious as it stems from the use of material created by students in a school setting, under authority, and sold with impunity at high prices. CTV News first reported on the art teachers questionable business practice on February 9, days after his students discovered that their artworks were being sold on the teachers personal website and showcased on his social media pages. Apparently, they were available on multiple items, including t-shirts, coffee mugs, and phone cases, for anywhere between $30 and $151. The artworks even referenced the students first names in their listings, with names like Logans Creepy Portrait or Julias Creepy Portrait. Imagine your 13-year-old son coming home from school today with a story that his art teacher is selling students artwork online at $94 per drawing without their prior knowledge!? That is completely insane, one of the childrens parents posted on social media. Im sure Im not the only parent that wants answers. Some of the parents asked for answers from the high school, but after receiving no answer, they sent a letter asking for $350,000 in moral and punitive damages for alleged intellectual property theft, as well as a formal apology from the teacher,, and for the art to be removed from his website. After the news went viral internationally, making headlines in the US, UK, and even Australia, the art teacher disabled his Facebook and LinkedIn accounts and deleted the students art from his personal website. More than 90 of his students paintings and drawings were available on the website before the scandal began. The teacher has yet to issue a statement on this matter. Im extremely disgusted with this person. Its extremely, you know, its unbelievable, the parent of one of the students whose art was sold by the art teacher said. Is [he] asking for these types of portraits to be done so it meets the market? Im not quite sure on that aspect. However, I am not impressed at all with this person. Im not impressed with the school, or the school board [My daughters] feel cheated. Westwood High School launched an investigation into this matter, with the board telling journalists that it was aware of the situation and is taking these allegations very seriously. Port of Dublin Floats PR/Marketing RFP Fri., Mar. 15, 2024 The Port of Dublin, which handles 50 percent of Irelands total trade and 80 percent of its containerized traffic, wants a PR/marketing services firm to position it as an essential state asset. Time correspondent Simon Shusters The Showman demonstrates how Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskys masterful knowledge of PR tactics and the power of propaganda transformed him from comedian into a respected world leader. Zelensky recognized that wars are fought in the minds of men and women long before the shooting starts. He knew the power and the danger of persuasion, and he knew that long before the Russian tanks crossed the borders of Ukraine, the Kremlin had waged its war through propaganda, seeking to convince anyone who speaks the Russian language that Ukraine does not exist, that its leaders are resurrected Nazis in disguise, serving the treacherous aims of the West against Russia, wrote Shuster. It was a repeat of Soviet propaganda that Joseph Stalin used during the 1930s that enabled the Kremlin to murder millions of Ukrainians by stealing their harvests. Though Putins propaganda machine churned out sheer madness, the lies that it endlessly repeated began to take hold. Complete control over the media channels enabled Putin to send tens of thousands of Russian men into the Ukrainian meat grinder. They killed and died in Ukraine without triggering major backlash from families and citizens back home. To counter Putin, Zelensky stuck to his strengths: mass media, foreign affairs, global pitchman for military aid and serving as cheerleader who urged Ukrainians to resist the Russian invasion. In the early going of the war, he left military matters up to his generals and focused his attention on appearing on Ukrainian state TV. As Zelensky began to feel more comfortable with the trappings of the presidency, he began to assert himself in military affairs, often to the detriment of Ukraines armed forces. He ruthlessly restricted the actions of parliament, instituted curfews, cracked down on domestic political opponents, and shut down hostile media outlets. Shuster believes Zelensky will face the ultimate challenge once the war ends, or a prolonged stalemate sets in. Hes unsure how the president will handle the return to life in a constitutional democracy with regular elections and freedom of the press. Shuster, who is of Russian and Ukrainian descent, began covering Ukraine in 2014 after Russia took over Crimea. He first met Zelensky in 2019 for a profile on his presidential campaign. The Time writer traveled with Zelensky to the war zone in 2019 and was embedded with his team during the first year of the war with Russia. The Showman includes a quote from Wagner Group founder Yevgeny Prigozhin, which offers high praise for Ukraines leader. Even through Zelensky is the president of a country hostile to Russia at the moment, he is still a strong, confident, pragmatic and likable guy, said Prigozhin, a crazed killer of thousands of Ukrainian troops who ultimately was murdered by Putin. Shuster has written an insider look at Ukraines president that is a great read for PR people. Picture above taken by Brian Redmond on Thursday 11th January. Present are ( L/R) Jerry Cahir, Barry Liffey (Liffey Mills), Denis Sharpe (Mount Dudley), Ivan Hastings (Abbey Mills), Denis Ryan (Chairman, Roscrea Tidy Towns) and Dick Conroy (Roscrea Tidy Towns). Jerry explained this installation to those present. The millwheel was donated by Barry Liffey of Liffey Mills. Since its foundation in the early 1980s, Roscrea Tidy Towns has striven to enhance Roscreas footprint in the national perspective through their performance in the National Competition. While having great success in the past ten years, we acknowledge the Trojan work done by earlier members ar scath a cheile a mhaireann na daoine an old Irish saying that translated is 'Under the shelter of each other, people survive', or, 'We are nothing without community'. This is especially true for Tidy Towns as the improvements of past committees endeavours contribute to the overall enrichment of Roscrea as we see it today. In recent times, we have been greatly aided by generous donations by Jerry Cahir, who has sold his artwork and donated the proceeds to both Roscrea Tidy Towns and Roscrea Hospice. He also created a great number of rustic art sculptures based on mythology and history which he donated to Roscrea Tidy Towns. The most prominent of these is on The Mall and commemorates The Battle of Roscrea shown on the top of the composite image on the left. A simple plaque has been erected at each sculpture to give some explanation for each one. This year, the last of Jerrys sculptures has been installed on the Monastery Road. These two sculptures commemorate the contribution to society of the various mills throughout the locality, but especially the Monastery Mill. They were enabled by the generous donations of a millwheel and augers by local millers whose mills have survived through the ages. The importance of the flour milling industry in the fabric of Roscrea cannot be overlooked. Kathleen Moloughney, in her books 'Roscrea Me Darlin' (1987) and 'Roscrea My Heart's Home' (1992), records that there were as many as fourteen mills in the locality forming a large contribution to the local economy with their labour-intensive production. Pictured above (L/R) are Ivan Hastings who donated the augers used in the sculpture, Barry Liffey, Denis Ryan and Dick Conroy (Roscrea Tidy Towns), Denis Sharpe (Mount Dudley) and creator of the piece Jerry Cahir. Photo: Brian Redmond She further records that not only was the locality largely dependent on them for employment, but also a large range of craftsmen who were sub-contractors such as carpenters, blacksmiths, coopers, and farmers. Together with labourers they all contributed to the production of flour. The sourcing of cheaper American flour in the late 19th century was a death blow to many of the mills causing their closure and contributing to the mass migration of many labourers and craftsmen seeking work abroad. Her book 'Roscrea My Hearts Home' has this paragraph: Indirectly, the closing of the flour mills affected many people engaged in other areas of craft and industry such as coopers, carpenters, blacksmiths, and farmers. Coopers made the barrels to hold the corn. Carpenters made and repaired carts, the long wooden 'brakes' which were used for transport by the mills. Irish draught horses were bred by farmers for hauling these. Blacksmiths were required to shoe the horses and to bind the cartwheels with iron. The Bunnow Mill Ruins Location The location of the sculptures outside Mount Dudley is most significant the road here is properly called Mill Road, as across the road from Mount Dudley, where the water treatment plant is now located, was the site of Bunnow Mills, a large mill in the 1800s that gave the road its name. There was no road to the monastery at that time this was only constructed in the late 19th century following the arrival of the monks to Roscrea. The sculpture is in two parts one is an actual millstone donated by Barry Liffey of Liffey Mills from the old mill quite possibly one of the monastic mills original stones, while the other is a complementary construction by Jerry using three augers donated by Ivan Hastings of Hastings Mill, Abbey Street which were used to transport the grain horizontally from one area to another. To these Jerry has added three heads that he has sculpted to represent the monastic millers. In constructing this sculpture, Jerry wanted to acknowledge the work of the monks in Mount St. Joseph and to commemorate their generosity. He also wanted to put on record their famous Abbey Bread. Some people will probably remember the loaves which the monks produced and sold to the public. This operation was discontinued in the not too distant past but has recently been revived by Manus Heenan, a student at the time at Mount St. Joseph, who incidentally was in the college at the same time as Barry Liffeys son, and who won the Overall National Student Enterprise award 2018 his promotional material states: Abbey Bread, award-winning Yeast Bread Mix inspired by the Bread Making Tradition at Mount St Joseph Abbey, Roscrea. On his website abbeybread.ie promoting the brand he records: The tradition of yeast bread making in Mount St Joseph dates back to 1896 when the first loaves were baked by Brothers Robert and Philip with stoneground flour produced in the nearby mill, also owned by the monks and baked in a purpose built, turf fired oven, bread making continued on a daily basis until 2010. The last monks to bake the bread were Brothers John and Oliver sadly Brother John and Brother Oliver passed away in 2019. Also recorded on this site was the fact that during the years 1896-2010 as many as 200 loaves were baked daily. The installation of all of Jerrys sculptures was completed by Roscrea Community Forum Workers under the supervision of Mr. Paddy Reidy. This involved the preparation of the sites at which the sculptures are installed. Originally, the sculptures were rusty hence the name Rustic Art and were subsequently painted by the CE Workers before being transported to and installed at their various locations. Pictured above are some of Jerry Cahir's other pieces dotted around Roscrea town centre, including the large 'Battle of Roscrea' installation on the Mall This current installation represents not only the monastic and other millers and workers but is also a true community co-operative effort with the donations of the artifacts from local mills, the unique sculpture construction by Jerry Cahir for Roscreas enhancement and the installation work by Roscrea Tidy Towns Section of the Community Employment Forum workers. The official launch of these sculptures took place on Thursday, January 11th, 2024. Roscrea Tidy Towns would like to thank Jerry for his generous contributions over the past few years. We also wish to thank the Sharpe family, outside whos property they stand, for their support in allowing the installation to take place. We also wish to acknowledge the Trojan work completed by Roscrea Community Employment Forum workers under the supervision of Paddy Reidy. We would especially like to thank both Ivan Hastings and Barry Liffey owners of the two still existing mills in the area for their donations of the artifacts. Barry Liffey informed us that the millwheel used in this sculpture was an ancient one that had been on display in the yard of the Fanure Mill. Could it be that it was one originally used by the monks? The enhancements of past Tidy Towns committees have made a great contribution to the town. Roscrea Tidy Towns feel these sculptures add so much to the town and not only commemorate historic items, but also create wonder and discussion by those who stop to appreciate them. The woman behind an Offaly wedding planning business has been honoured with a top award at the annual Wedding Suppliers Awards. The founder of Tullamore-based Wednesday Wedding Club, Emma Greenbury, took home the Wedding Planner of the Year award at the prestigious event, which took place at the Killashee House Hotel in Naas on February 6. Wednesday Wedding Club is an Irish wedding planning business offering planning services for couples who want a rulebook-free, fun, unique wedding with no stress. Speaking to the Offaly Express, Greenbury stated she was "delighted" with the great achievement. She said, "It's immense for me, it's validating all the hard work I put into my clients' weddings." Greenbury, who tackles between three and four weddings a month, says she has a very personalised approach and likes to make time for clients. She has been in the wedding industry for just two years, having changed careers from a 13 year long publishing career. She said, "I absolutely loved what I did but I just wanted something really creative, I'm a creative person and I love working with people. There was a phase [over Covid] where I was working on my own a lot, and I wanted to do something where I was working with people more and [having] more rewarding kind of experiences. "There's nothing better than seeing everything come together on a wedding day and seeing how happy everyone is. It's a really lovely experience. "It was the career change for me definitely." Greenbury was able to transfer skills she learned by orgaising events for brands like Irish Tatler into wedding planning, stating: "I harnessed all my skills and poured [them] into this one of a kind job." She said, "I wasn't a stranger when it came to doing big events. "I used to do events for Irish Tatler and I was really good at it, I felt like I was really good at organisation and it was just a natural kind of thing. I helped out other wedding planners to get experience and it felt like a really nice fit for me." Her business Wednesday Wedding Club has been praised for its catchy name, and Greenbury has occasionally been jokingly asked if she only does weddings on Wednesdays. But she confirmed she runs weddings "every day of the week". When asked about her top advice for couples planning their wedding, she said, "No one has ever planned your wedding before. I think there's no shame getting assistants when you need to, and a wedding planner can particularly help you out with anything you need. "It's not just things on what to do or advice, it's kind of like having a best friend there as an assistant, someone to take off the stress and pressure. So I would definitely recommend getting a wedding planner, but above all else try to enjoy the process and don't stress. Try and enjoy all of it." AN Offaly grandmother fears she will be made homeless for the second time in three years. Agnes Cullen, a native of Clara, is one of many residents of the Riverview apartment complex in Kilbeggan who have received notices telling them their tenancies will be terminated. Ms Cullen has joined with other tenants in mounting a weekly public protest in Kilbeggan against the planned sale by Riverview owner Remcoll. In an interview with the Tullamore Tribune, Ms Cullen revealed herself and her husband, Kilbeggan man Pat Keenan, had been living in a car for nine months before moving to Riverview. We were homeless two and a half years ago, she said. We were living in a car and my husband has a heart condition that is non curable and I have illnesses as well and we were nine months out in the car before we got this place and our dream was to live in the Riverview apartments. They had been renting a small residence like a little granny flat in Killeigh prior to being housed in Riverview with the help of the council's HAP (housing assistance payment) place finder. She said jumped around the place when the call came that the Kilbeggan apartment was available because Offaly County Council had not been able to provide any accommodation, even a room in a bed and breakfast. She felt at the time: This is our home. We came from being homeless and this was our for ever home and we were never going to have to be homeless again. Before moving in the couple had been living in their car with their dog, spending days and nights in various parts of Tullamore like the Daingean Road car park and the car parks at Tesco or Burlington. We used to have to move around in the car. Now, less than three years after finding a home where their children and grandchildren could visit them, the couple fear they may have to live in a car again when the eviction comes into effect on July 12 next. An awful lot of people here, our neighbours, are going to be affected by this. What we're trying to do with the protest is stop this sale and get them to realise that people have nowhere to go, she said. Offaly County Council is not giving us anything. Westmeath County Council is not giving [the others] anything. Where is everybody going to go? We're all going to be out in the car park come July. She said the 76-apartment Riverview complex, where a large number of Brazilians have been living for many years, had become a great community inside a community. Everybody sticks together, everybody talks to each other and is nice to each other. The first public protest on the street at Riverview took place on Saturday, February 10. This Saturday there was a lot more than what was there last Saturday and we're going to do it every Saturday until we get answers. Ms Cullen, who thanked Westmeath Sinn Fein TD Sorcha Clarke for her support, said a key question for residents like her was whether or not the apartments will be sold with the tenants remaining in them. Speaking before the protests began, Clement Herron, agent for the owner, property development company Remcoll, said the termination notices would be going ahead but various purchase options might be available. I can't try and manage everybody's tenancy or everybody's lifestyle or what they're going to do next. Our job is to manage the asset and say to our client we're maximising the asset. It's also very important to take on board that this was an investment that was made as a 10-year investment, a property investment, a property fund. He said the apartments might be sold as a job lot, or in lots and a few chunks. Promoting the sale of the 5.3 acre complex, which comprises 64 two-beds, five townhouses, seven one-beds and a commercial unit, Clement Herron Real Estate said: Selling Riverview with tenants in situ fosters a sense of community and alleviates the burden on local authorities, providing a practical and socially responsible solution. The prospective purchaser not only gains a commendable estimated return of 6% but also becomes a pillar of accommodation provision within the local economy during uncertain times. Some apartments will be available with vacant possession. Westmeath County Council has already been approached by an approved housing body (AHB) and the local authority said it will support an acquisition of part of the complex by an AHB. Westmeath County Council will be liaising with qualifying households over the coming months, to provide support to find alternative accommodation where required and will liaise with any AHBs that have expressed an interest in acquiring the units, the council said. In a statement, Offaly County Council said: Offaly County Council is aware that a Notice of Termination has been issued to a number of tenants at the Riverview Complex in Kilbeggan. A number of the tenancies in the complex are on Offaly County Councils Social Housing Support List and are in receipt of Intercounty Housing Assistance Payments. The Council will be liaising with qualifying households to provide support over the coming months. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. Azerbaijan actively engages in matters related to water diplomacy, said permanent representative at the German Embassy in Azerbaijan Heiko Schwarz during the conference on "Reconstruction of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure in Karabakh Region," Trend reports. "The significance of water diplomacy is increasing annually due to the growing impact of water scarcity on both people and countries. Azerbaijan, being a downstream country, is confronted with these challenges. Germany also acknowledges the importance of water and water management. Last year, Germany hosted a visit from nine water experts representing the South Caucasus countries: Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia. This collaborative effort reflects our belief that addressing these issues requires collective action. Azerbaijan deserves recognition for its proactive role in addressing and resolving these challenges," he noted. Meanwhile, a conference on the Reconstruction of Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure in the Karabakh Region was held, with the goal of bringing together stakeholders from Germany and Azerbaijan to find solutions for efficient water supply and wastewater treatment in Western Azerbaijan. The main topics of the conference were the development of approaches to improve water quality and water treatment for drinking water supply and agriculture in West Azerbaijan, with a special focus on the environmental problems of transboundary rivers such as the Kur, Araz, and Okchuchay. To note, in addition to water supply and wastewater companies, the task force includes environmental consultants and research institutes, as well as experts from related industries such as agriculture, construction, and mining. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel A total of 41 anglers took part in the Hogan Cup in Tullamore and most caught fish, resulting in a total pike catch on the day of 61. PADDY Hogan flew home from New York and landed the heaviest fish of the day in the annual Jim Hogan Memorial Cup competition. The open pike angling competition is organised each year by Tullamore & District Angling Club in memory of the late Jim Hogan so it is fitting that his New York-based son Paddy took the biggest accolade on Sunday on the Grand Canal. The club's Pat Foran said: This is the club's biggest pike angling event of the year and is fished in memory of Jim Hogan, who was a well-known angler in the Tullamore club. Although Jim is no longer with us, he still lives on in the memory of his friends and family today. A total of 41 anglers took part and most caught fish, resulting in a total pike catch on the day of 61. Along with the single heaviest pike, an impressive 24lb 8oz, Paddy caught three others and the combined weight of 39lb 8oz earned him the prize of overall winner too. The second heaviest fish weighed 11lb 4oz and was caught by Charlie Lawlor. The third, a 10lb pike, was landed by David Hogan. The club returned to the Newtown Bar for the prize-giving ceremony afterwards and the anglers enjoyed hot food and refreshments. That night, the club also awarded the Gordon Bushell Memorial Shield for the heaviest pike of 2023. Ger Murray won this with an excellent pike weighing 13 lbs 3oz. Ger caught this fish at the 2023 Hogan Cup competition, which helped him win the Hogan Cup trophy, said Pat Foran. The Joe Lambe Memorial Shield for the best bag of 2023 was awarded to Eamon Hogan, who had 62 lbs 11oz in pike over the 2023 competitions. Eamon has had a great fishing season and is a regular name in our fourth competition winner announcements. Well done, Eamon. During 2023 Tullamore Angling Club members caught a total of 251 pike. The club would like to thank the Hogan family for sponsoring the event and supplying the beautiful prizes to be raffled off to ensure everybody left with something, added Pat. Paddy and Johnny Hogan travel from New York to fish for the event and bring one of their American friends, Mr Bill Casey, over for the occasion. It was great to have Bill attend again, as he always makes the trip over and enjoys the Irish banter. It was wonderful to have our overseas guests in Tullamore, and we wish them a pleasant and safe stay in Ireland in the next few weeks. The club would like to extend a huge special thanks to the Hogan family and The Newtown bar for making the event successful. The club would also like to thank all our committee members and competition officers who have worked hard behind the scenes to keep the show going. Also, a huge thanks to all our members, new and old, who support the club with their attendance. Tullamore and District Angling Club will host its next and last pike competition until October on Sunday, February 25. STATEMENT OF SENATOR JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA ON THE SENATE TAKING THE LEAD IN CHARTER CHANGE DELIBERATIONS It is worth noting that the Senate has heeded the President's earlier call to be at the forefront of crafting proposed Charter changes, specifically on the economic provisions in the Constitution, preserving the bicameral nature of the legislation. This was even before the "word war" between the two Chambers escalated. By taking the lead in this crucial process, the Senate demonstrates its commitment to shaping the future of our nation through thoughtful and deliberate constitutional amendments. Let us hope that this collaborative effort results in positive changes that benefit all Filipinos. Umaasa rin ako na ngayong gumugulong na ang proseso sa dalawang kapulungan ng Kongreso, maiisantabi na ang mga bangayan sa usaping ito at gampanan ang sinumpaan naming mandato, ang pagiging mambabatas at taga taguyod ng kapakanan ng nakararami nating kababayan at interes ng bayan. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. Germany is interested in increasing imports of Kazakh oil to 2.4 million tons per year, said the Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan Almassadam Satkaliyev in an interview with the Romanian Adevural, Trend reports. "The German side expresses interest in increasing the volume of supplies of Kazakh crude oil to 200,000 tons per month," the minister said. According to him, in 2023 Kazakhstan exported 993,000 tons of oil to Germany. In addition, the minister noted that for the entire 2023, the export of Kazakh oil to the EU countries amounted to 46.6 million tons, while the total export of Kazakh oil amounted to 70.5 million tons or 66 percent of the total export of crude oil from Kazakhstan. Earlier, the Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan Almassadam Satkaliyev said that in 2023, the oil production in the country amounted to about 90 million tons, although it was initially planned to produce 9293 million tons of oil. According to him, about 18 million tons of oil produced in 2023 came from the domestic market. About 56 million tons were exported through the Caspian Pipeline Consortium. Moreover, the country plans to increase oil production in 2024 to 90.3 million tons. Karipur: Flight operations at Kozhikode airport are set to receive a major boost, with airline companies announcing new services connecting the airport to Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. A recent meeting of airline company representatives convened at the airport also revealed plans to launch additional services to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and expand domestic operations with services to Thiruvananthapuram and New Delhi. Asir Asia, based in Malaysia, has expressed willingness to launch services to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, while Fits Air from Sri Lanka conveyed its readiness to kick start service to Colombo. The airlines are hopeful to launch these new services within the next few months. The flight services to Colombo and Kuala Lumpur will enhance onward connectivity to far-eastern destinations, such as Singapore, the Philippines, and Australia, as well as to countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam. This will benefit a vast number of tourists, students, as well as business traffic. The meeting was organized by the Kozhikode Airport Authority in association with the Al-Hind group. Major decisions 1) Air India Express representative promised that the airline would launch more domestic services from Kozhikode, in addition to a new service to Thiruvananthapuram. 2) Indian operator Akash Air and Singapore-based Scoot Airline acknowledge the significance of Kozhikode airport and assert their due consideration for the airport. 3) Indigo Airlines official speaks of plans to restore its Dammam service, which was withdrawn earlier. 4) Flynas and Spice Jet convey their plans to launch services to Riyadh in addition to their existing Riyadh service. Hike in Haj travel cost; MPs register protest Parliament members who attended the recent meeting at Kozhikode airport registered their strong protest over the sharp increase in ticket fares for the Hajj pilgrimage from the airport. During the meeting, MPs Abdusamad Samadani and MK Raghavan raised the issue with the representative of the Air India Express and recorded their protests. Pointing out that the flight travel for the pilgrimage from Kozhikode costs almost double the ticket fares from other departure points in Kerala, such as Kannur and Kochi, Samadani MP said this could not be accepted. UPS plans to eliminate its day sorting operations at a Swan Island facility in Portland, putting 321 mostly part-time employees out of work, the company notified state officials on Wednesday. The Atlanta-based shipping company told state officials that its Portland sorting facility, located at 6707 N. Basin Ave., will permanently end its daytime shift by April 19. The closure means that 272 part-time and 11 full-time employees, as well as 48 part-time and full-time managers, will lose their jobs. The company said the closure was due to a decline in package volume. UPS will attempt to mitigate this loss by offering work to affected employees if other positions become available, Lori Cruz, human resources business partner director at UPS, wrote to state labor officials. Cruz added that the layoffs impact both union and non-union workers. During an earnings call in January, UPS said that it would lay off 12,000 workers, or roughly 2.5% of its workforce, as demand for package delivery services stagnates. CEO Carol Tome said that reducing the companys workforce would save the company $1 billion this year. The layoffs come just months after UPS averted a massive strike by agreeing to a new labor contract with the Teamsters union last summer. Teamsters Local 162, which represents some of the workers at the Portland facility, notified members about the changes to its day sorting operations. --Kristine de Leon; kdeleon@oregonian.com The Associated Press contributed to this report. BowFlex headquarters in Vancouver. The company was previously known as Direct Focus and Nautilus. It returned to its original name after selling rights to the Nautilus brand.BowFlex photo When her stepfather moved across the street from her in late summer 2021, Skylar Faith Crowe got scared. She said she had endured years of sexual abuse from Richard Higheagle starting in grade school but hadnt reported it, afraid it would tear apart her family and no one would believe her. At age 22, Crowe decided to confront him, hoping if she could get an admission from him, she could overcome the pain and terror she continued to endure. When she implored him to be honest, he called her delusional. They scuffled and she stabbed him once in the chest with a kitchen knife, killing him. On Tuesday, Crowe stood before a federal judge for sentencing after pleading guilty in November to voluntary manslaughter. She initially was charged with first-degree murder. She was prosecuted in federal court because the stabbing occurred on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. In a letter submitted to the court, Crowe said she detests what she did to Higheagle, 40. A lot of people have told me they understand what I did to Richard. While I appreciate their support, I want people to know that I dont think what I did was right or justified, Crowe wrote to the judge. What I did was wrong and I will spend the rest of my life making sure I never hurt someone again. The prosecution urged a sentence of six years for Crowe in the mid-range of sentencing guidelines that called for five years and three months to six and a half years -- but U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon granted a departure far below the range. Simon said he was convinced by Crowes defense lawyer, Crowes psychological evaluation and letters in support of Crowe that Higheagles years of abuse contributed significantly to Crowes crime. But he said he struggled to decide how to quantify how much her circumstances should impact the sentence. In the end, he accepted the defenses recommendation of three years. It was wrong what Mr. Higheagle did to you and your sister, Simon told Crowe. It was very wrong. It never should have happened, but the law should have dealt with it, not you. He never should have done what he did. You never should have done what you did. The judge said he recognized that Crowe took responsibility for her crime from the outset. He encouraged her to continue mental health and substance abuse treatment and said hes convinced shell have a successful future. Please understand that Im imposing the sentence because no matter how bad it was what was done to you, we cant take the law into our own hands, Simon said. It is rare for children to kill a parent or stepparent, accounting for less than 2% of all homicides in the U.S., according to experts who track the offenses. While women killing men also is a rarity, such crimes often follow a history of sexual or domestic violence, researchers have found. Vanessa Timmons, executive director of the Oregon Coalition against Domestic and Sexual Violence, said keeping such a volatile, disturbing secret becomes unbearable. Its pressure building of this need for some sort of accountability or to be witnessed, Timmons said. So you can imagine when you finally have the opportunity to have the story witnessed and you get the courage to tell the story -- and for that moment to be denied, must be incredibly painful physiologically and painful emotionally. Crowe, seated beside her lawyer, looked down at the defense table and responded in a faint voice to questions from the judge. The courtroom was filled with her family and supporters as well as a group of Higheagles relatives. Crowe, now 24, began to cry when her aunt Higheagles sister said she was torn between love for her brother and for her niece. ' PEDOPHILE! ' About 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 29, 2021, Crowe spotted Richard Higheagle drive up in a blue van with his girlfriend. As they got out to take groceries into their home, Crowe started screaming from her front porch, Pedophile! She urged him to be honest and admit what he had done to her, according to court records. Higheagle yelled back, Go to bed and say it to my face and grabbed his groceries and carried them into his home. Crowe grabbed a kitchen knife from her house, stuffed it in the pocket of her hooded sweatshirt and walked across the street and banged on Higheagles front door. When he answered, she continued to demand that he admit what he had done to her. He kept calling her delusional. One witness said Crowe slapped Higheagle. Another said Higheagle was about to push his hand in Crowes face when she pulled the knife from her pocket and stabbed him in the chest. Crowe ran back home, dropping the knife in the street and immediately drove herself to the Umatilla Tribal police station to confess what she had done. Skylar Faith Crowe talking to investigators, demonstrating how she said stepdad Richard Higheagle moved to slap her face after she confronted him on Sept. 29, 2021 about the years of sexual abuse she said she endured from him.Courtesy of Skylar Faith Crow's defense lawyer Meanwhile, Higheagle stumbled from his front door to a couch, sat for a minute, got back up and collapsed as he tried to walk toward his bathroom. He was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he died later that night, according to court records. Umatilla tribal police found Crowe sitting on the curb outside their office, distraught and shaking. Once they took her inside, she told them what she had bottled up for years: Higheagle had been married to her mother and abused her from elementary school through the start of high school, according to court records. He fondled her and would go into her room at night, she said. She would wake up naked, watching him leave her room or see him masturbating next to her bed, she told police. In middle school, she went to see a school counselor because she started to cut her wrists and said she wanted help, according to court records. The counselor told her that her behavior was normal for teens and dismissed it, Crowe said. At that time, Crowe didnt report the sexual abuse to the counselor. Skylar Faith Crowe told investigators that her stepdad started molesting her when she was in the second grade. This is a photo of Crowe when she was in the second grade.Courtesy of Skylar Faith Crow's defense lawyer DECADE OF ABUSE Crowe had experienced trauma throughout her childhood. Her mother was an alcoholic and drug addict who was rarely at home, according to Crowes lawyer, Conor Huseby, an assistant federal public defender. Her biological father was in prison much of her childhood for burglary. Her parents separated when she was 6 months old and her mother began dating Higheagle and soon married him. Her stepfather was violent and the family experienced periods of homelessness, according to Huseby. By late August 2021, Crowe was raising her younger half-brother as his legal guardian. They shared the same mother. Higheagle was her brothers father. When Higheagle moved into a house across the street from hers on the reservation, Crowe said she became afraid to leave her home. She stopped going out to retrieve the mail. Two days before she confronted Higheagle, she tried to harm herself again, pushing a knife into her wrists but was too afraid to push hard enough to die, according to her lawyer. Crowe had recently talked to her older sister, who also was sexually abused by Higheagle, according to court records. Crowe learned that Higheagle had acknowledged abusing her older sister after she confronted him several weeks earlier, according to Huseby. Crowe became obsessed with the idea of getting Higheagle to confess his abuse of her, Huseby said. Then Higheagle mocked Crowe. DEEPER TRUTH In court, prosecutor Pamela Paaso argued that the government already had considered Crowes circumstances in agreeing to allow her to plead to voluntary manslaughter instead of murder. Paaso said she also took into account Crowes difficult upbringing and background but believed a six-year sentence was appropriate after consulting with Higheagles family. It reflects the seriousness of the offense, and provides just punishment for defendants conduct, and perhaps, deter similar conduct from others, Paaso wrote to the court. But the judge pointed out that prosecutors in the federal district typically recommend the low-end of the guidelines and Paasos six-year recommendation was above that. We felt like mitigation was taken into account with the change of the charge, Paaso said. A federal presentence officer recommended a sentence of four years and two months, citing Crowes diminished mental state and how Higheagles abuse contributed to the killing. In seeking three years for Crowe, Huseby said the case before the judge was manslaughter, not murder and involved a defendant who had experienced 10 years of frightening and frequent sexual abuse. The police investigating Higheagles death only learned a small sliver of the truth behind Crowes stabbing, he argued. The real truth was buried behind 10 years of trauma and silence, Huseby said. He noted Crowe has no prior criminal record and confessed right away, expressing deep remorse. She also isnt likely to reoffend, he argued. While Skylar was tortured by Richard for most of her life, she struggles to accept that she took Richards life, he wrote to the court. When Crowe turned 18, she received a standard payment from tribal industry revenue and moved out of her familys house and became the guardian of her 15-year-old half-brother because of their parents dysfunctional lives. She was the only one there for me, her brother wrote to the judge. Crowe worked full time at various jobs at McDonalds, a coffee shop and at the reservations casino to provide for him and helped him become the first member of the family to graduate high school, Huseby said. Caring for her brother also kept Crowe from following her sisters path off the reservation, Huseby said. Her older sister, who had told their mother that Higheagle had abused her to no avail, had moved out of the state as soon as she turned 18. On the night of Crowes confrontation with Higheagle, Crowe became intensely emotionally dysregulated and reactive and acted on impulse when he mocked her and moved to put a hand in her face, said Andrea Merg, a psychologist who evaluated Crowe. She stabbed him blindly, unaware of what part of his body she struck until she heard him yell, She stabbed me in my heart, according to court records. Higheagle, who was 6-foot-1 and about 280 pounds, had methamphetamine in his blood at the time of his death, according to a toxicology report. Crowe is 5-foot-5 and 130 pounds. FORGIVENESS Crowe declined to address the judge in court, relying on the letter she submitted. She looked straight ahead at first when her aunt told the judge that Richard Higheagles life didnt have to end this way. I always will have love for my brother and nothing will change that, Nicole Higheagle said. She had responded to the hospital the night of the stabbing but didnt know her brother had died until she received a phone call from an FBI agent. She was the one who then told the rest of her family, she said. Then Nicole Higheagle, 38, spoke to Crowe as her niece began to cry. I want you to keep focusing on your healing and your sobriety, she said, through tears. I love you, Skylar. I believe in you. I will always be praying for your healing, your heart and your spirit. I want you to know that I forgive you, she said. The judge told Crowe her that she will be welcomed back into society after she completes her sentence. Do you understand? Simon asked. Crowe responded with a barely audible yes. Simon ordered Crowe to voluntarily surrender to prison on May 2. He recommended she serve her time at a federal prison camp in Dublin, California, noting she doesnt pose a security risk. From everything that I read about you, you are a very good person, a caring person who wants to help others, who can and will help others, Simon said. Im confident that you will succeed in that. Get the treatment that you need, whether it be on the prison or under supervision afterwards. Its not going to be easy, but I believe you can do it and you will have a successful future. After the hearing, Higheagles supporters filed out of the courtroom. Crowe turned and hugged her lawyer and family members who filled several rows in the downtown courtroom. Deirdre Bowen, director of the Family Law Center at Seattle University School of Law, said sentencing law needs to be finetuned to make it clear that prosecutors and judges, as Simon did, account for the psychological impact that years and years of abuse can have on a survivor. This is a decade or more of abuse, building up and having a traumatic effect that results in post-traumatic stress disorder, Bowen said. Theres nothing in the law that says, OK, this is how you should think about those mitigating circumstances. Under the law, a judge can depart from a sentencing guideline range if the victims wrongful conduct contributed significantly to provoking the offense behavior. Judges should consider, according to the provision: The size, strength, and physical characteristics of the victim and defendant, persistence of the victims conduct, and danger presented to a defendant, among other things. Bowen said the law should recognize a special category of mitigating circumstances dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder specifically associated with sexual assault or domestic violence. Most importantly, she said, children and women need better support to encourage them to come forward without worrying whether they will be believed or that they will ruin their familys economic stability. Its really important to shine a light on a case like this so that we can educate the public at large about the nature of the experience of victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, how they might get to a point where they feel they have no choice but to react in the most extreme way possible, she said. Crowe has undergone counseling and treatment since her arrest. Ms. Crowe knows now today she can ask for help in a way she never knew before, Huseby said. Crowes biological father, Gregory Crowe, acknowledged in a letter to the judge that he had failed his daughter. He wasnt around to protect her, he said. He gave her the middle name Faith because I had faith things would get better than they were at that time. And I swear its a lifelong prayer. -- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com or follow her on X @maxoregonian (https://twitter.com/maxoregonian ) or on LinkedIn. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com. A passenger who fatally stabbed a Portland taxi driver sitting in the front seat of his cab last year refused to accept responsibility for the unprovoked killing as a judge handed down a 22-year sentence Wednesday. Moses J. Lopez gave a litany of reasons why everything went wrong: a lost debit card, static on the dispatchers radio and a garbled address that led the cabbie to drive Lopez not to Lopezs apartment but to Southeast Water Avenue underneath a highway overpass at 8:40 p.m. April 9, 2023. Lopez had been out partying earlier that night in downtown Portland, but the evening took a turn for the worse, so Lopez called 911 and asked for a ride home. The operator told Lopez to call a cab, Lopez said, but the Radio Cab dispatcher entered the wrong address. I ended up in a very scary part of town where I was genuinely afraid, Lopez said. I refuse to apologize for the lack of help that I so desperately needed. Lopez said they are often afraid of being targeted because they identify as a transgender person. Circuit Judge Heidi Moawad sentenced Lopez, now 30, to 22 years of state prison in exchange for guilty pleas to charges of first-degree manslaughter and unlawful use of a weapon. A separate case charging Lopez with threatening two employees of a Coos County Bi-Mart days before the killing were dismissed as part of the plea deal. Radio Cab driver Reese Lawhon, 43, asked Lopez to confirm their address while picking Lopez up outside a downtown donut shop and had already realized the mistaken address and was driving to the correct destination when Lopez reached forward without warning and stabbed him from the back seat, according to a bail memo written by prosecutors. It was based on the cabs camera footage. The excuses that were made in the courtroom today for (Lopezs) actions are disgraceful, Radio Cab spokesperson Darin Campbell said in an interview after the hearing, saying Lawhon would have been the first person to help if Lopez had only asked. 10 1 / 10 Reese Lawhon mourned Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, Lawhon studied art at the University of Oregon, according to an obituary. His first passion was as a visual artist, but he also received acclaim as a musician, said his mother, Ginger Lawhon, addressing the court remotely. Words cannot express the horror, pain and finality of this crime, Ginger Lawhon said. Reeses death was senseless and we are more than heartbroken. However, we refuse to define his life by this ending. Ginger Lawhon and other family members said the killing transformed the days following Easter Sunday from a celebration to a period of painful mourning, as they explained what had happened to Reese Lawhons nieces and nephews. We tell our kids so many times that monsters arent under the bed or in the closet, but its all a lie, said Claire Pearce, one of Reese Lawhons two sisters. Moses Lopez is a monster and will always be one. Lopez smirked at the remark, prompting one of two defense attorneys to frown and shake her head. The other defense attorney, Cameron Taylor, said Lopez grew up on the Oregon coast and had a tough childhood that forced Lopez to leave home at a young age. Lopez also had been a victim of violence, Taylor said, but did not say how. Lopez worked as a certified nursing assistant at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in North Portland, court records show. Lopez appeared in good spirits at the end of the hearing, laughing and waving goodbye to the defense attorneys before being led away through the sally port door. Zane Sparling covers breaking news and courts for The Oregonian/OregonLive. Reach him at 503-319-7083, zsparling@oregonian.com or @pdxzane. Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe The Portland school board voted unanimously on Tuesday to move toward selling the school districts headquarters to Albina Vision Trust, a nonprofit spearheading the redevelopment of Portlands historic Lower Albina neighborhood. In exchange for selling the property, the nonprofit will help the school district purchase a new headquarters. Because the replacement property hasnt been identified, the timeline for a sale remains unclear. Mike Alexander, the chair of Albina Vision Trust, called the vote a transformative and pivotal opportunity for the city, its children and families. He said the deal would benefit the citys youth, particularly Black children who have historically not received the same support and services as their peers. Alexander recited a proverb that he said was often said by the Maasai tribe at the start of meetings. And how are the children? Alexander said. The commitment of community is to write new history that allows our children and grandchildren to look back at this time and talk about how well we responded to the question of, and how are the children? Tuesdays vote sets off a lengthy process of developing a project plan and launching a real estate search. The Albina Vision Trust had pitched taking advantage of a depressed downtown Portland commercial real estate market by buying a building there, citing a study from the economics firm ECONorthwest that found 72 of the 82 available and suitable buildings are on the west side. The agreement, however, says only that the headquarters must be within the districts boundaries. ECONorthwest said in a January presentation to the schoolboard that commercial real estate downtown has a high vacancy rate and is relatively inexpensive right now but that prices would climb as the market bounces back. Winta Yohannes, the executive director of Albina Vision Trust, said while the transaction isnt final, she has every confidence that it will move forward. I think the resolution is a good-faith declaration on their part, she said. Albina Vision Trust proposed the transaction last month at a school board meeting and described it as the only cost neutral option for the district. Even remaining in the existing headquarters would cost the district about $14 million, the nonprofit said, due to operating costs and deferred maintenance. Renovating the building or constructing a new one offsite would cost the district millions more, the nonprofit said, citing ECONorthwests study. During Tuesdays meeting, Adam Maurer, an electrician with the school district, asked the district to hold off on a vote until it had more fully reviewed where maintenance workers, nutritional services and other laborers would report to work if the districts administrative offices moved downtown. No thought or study has been completed to consider needs for a centralized maintenance location, or the cost to remodel, outfit and move all these facilities, he said. Board member Julia Brim-Edwards said that those details would be studied in the next few months before the sale is finalized. Yohannes also acknowledged district employees concerns in an interview Wednesday. Everything thats on the table, all the issues here are solvable, she said. Theres no doubt this will be a complex transaction, but Im equally confident that we have the people, the resources and the opportunity to act now. At the January meeting, Portland residents with deep connections to the historically Black Albina neighborhood spoke about the enduring significance of the area to residents, even after many were displaced by urban development projects including the construction of Interstate 5 and Emanuel Hospital. This is the second time in the last 20 years Ive entered this building, because its sitting on my parents land, said Sharon Gary-Smith, a lifelong Portland resident and former president of the citys NAACP chapter. She reminisced about growing up on North Dixon Street, where the school district headquarters now stand. She talked about the thriving community that once existed in that space, and her hopes that it can exist once again. I hope your decision-making without pause will be about conscience and conscientiousness about returning fallow ground so it can grow again for this city, this community and every one of us that loves being here, Gary-Smith said at the January meeting. School board members voted in 2021 to give Albina Vision Trust right of first refusal to purchase the headquarters if it were to go up for sale. It sits slightly north of Veterans Memorial Coliseum, between I-5 and the Willamette River. Jayati Ramakrishnan reports on Oregonians access to housing, transportation and mental health care. Reach her at jramakrishnan@oregonian.com. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today. The dean of Oregon Health & Science Universitys medical school resigned Wednesday, one day after being asked to step down by the institutions president over his handling of allegations against a prominent doctor accused of secretly snapping photos of women students in class. Dr. David Jacobys resignation was announced in an all-staff message from OHSU President Dr. Danny O. Jacobs. The resignation applies only to Jacobys leadership position; he is a tenured professor of medicine at the university. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. Kazakhstan's Parliament has approved the intergovernmental agreement with Turkiye for international combined transportation of goods, the aim of which is to enhance the transit-transport potential and foster trade and economic relations between the two countries, Trend reports. To note, the document was signed on May 10, 2022, in Ankara, Turkiye. The agreement seeks to boost cargo flow along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), utilizing the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad, Caspian Sea ports, and the Western Europe-Western China international transit corridor. This, in turn, is intended to elevate the trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Turkiye. Ratification of the agreement will reduce the time of cargo passage to 5 days. In 2022, the passage of this route took 13-15 days. Instead of two waybills for combined transportation by rail and sea, a single digital document will be introduced, which can be issued through an automated digital platform. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. The Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan has ratified the Agreement between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan on cooperation in the field of aviation search and rescue, concluded on May 26, 2022 in Bishkek, Trend reports. Thus, the countries agreed to establish cooperation between their search and rescue services to search and rescue passengers and crews, as well as aircraft in distress. Operations will be conducted in accordance with the standards and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization. At the same time, under the agreement, the parties will notify each other about aviation accidents and will immediately take all necessary measures to search and rescue passengers and crews of aircraft in distress. In addition, the parties will conduct joint search and rescue exercises, exchange information and experience. The agreement also includes the provision of mutual assistance at the request of one of the parties during search and rescue operations, including in cross-border territory (aviation and ground support by search and rescue forces). Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council and Supreme Commander of the Army, Mohamed al-Manfi, held an extended meeting with the Defence and Security Council, and the Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity and Minister of Defence, Abdulhamid Al Dbaiba baiba, to discuss the security and military situation in Libya Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity, Abdulhamid al Dbaiba, has stressed the need to support and continue the development programme, provided that it includes all towns and regions, and that the emphasis is placed on education and health facilities, major road projects and sanitation programmes Graphic Packaging to Sell Augusta Paperboard Mill in Georgia to Clearwater Paper Graphic packaging's Augusta mill in Georgia produces solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard, which is used to produce a wide variety of consumer packaging products. Graphic packaging's Augusta mill in Georgia produces solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard, which is used to produce a wide variety of consumer packaging products. Feb. 20, 2024 - Graphic Packaging Holding Company and Clearwater Paper Corporation, today announced that Graphic Packaging has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Augusta, Georgia bleached paperboard manufacturing facility to Clearwater Paper. The transaction value is approximately $700 million, based on Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $100 million. "Augusta is an outstanding asset with a great team, which we concluded is a more compelling fit with Clearwater Paper's strategic growth plans than our own," said Michael Doss, President and Chief Executive Officer of Graphic Packaging. "Bleached paperboard plays a major role in sustainable consumer packaging, and we will continue to service growing foodservice and packaging demand with bleached paperboard from our Texarkana facility." Arsen Kitch, CEO of Clearwater Paper, added, "Augusta is a great fit with our strategy and improves our position as a premier, independent paperboard supplier to North American converters. I look forward to welcoming the Augusta team to Clearwater Paper as we work together to build a more scaled paperboard business to service our customers." The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is currently expected to close in the second quarter of 2024. About Clearwater Paper Clearwater Paper is a premier supplier of private brand tissue products and bleached paperboard. The company's tissue serves private brand market retail customers including grocery, club, mass merchants, and discount stores. The company's paperboard operations serve quality-conscious printers and packaging converters, with services that include custom sheeting, slitting, and cutting. Clearwater Paper's employees build shareholder value by developing strong relationships through quality and service. Graphic Packaging Holding Company (NYSE: GPK), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is a leading provider of sustainable, fiber-based packaging solutions to food, beverage, foodservice, and other consumer products companies. The company operates on a global basis, is one of the largest producers of folding cartons and fiber-based foodservice packaging in the United States and Europe and holds leading market positions in coated recycled paperboard (CRB), coated unbleached kraft paperboard (CUK) and solid bleached sulfate paperboard (SBS). SOURCE: Graphic Packaging Holding Company About the Augusta Mill PaperAge editor's note: The Augusta mill was developed in 1960 by Continental Can Co. It was acquired by Federal Paper Board Co. in 1985 and by International Paper in 1996. In January 2018, Graphic Packaging completed a combination with International Paper's North America Consumer Packaging Business in which Graphic Packaging owned 79.5% of the partnership and was sole manager, while International Paper owned 20.5%. The Augusta mill, which produces solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard, came with the deal. After acquiring the mill, Graphic Packaging made significant upgrades at the mill in a multi-phase approach, improving its overall operations and the quality of the bleached paperboard the mill manufactures. Photo: (Photo : THOMAS SAMSON /Getty Images) In a deeply resonant narrative of unwavering resilience and professional evolution, Calley Burnett, an Indiana mother, has woven a compelling story of transitioning from a NICU parent to a dedicated NICU nurse and maternal advocate. This poignant journey unfolded in the face of her son Spencer's diagnosis with congenital heart defects, propelling Burnett into a realm where her experiences now serve as a guiding light for others confronting similar challenges. A Mother's Unyielding Spirit: Navigating NICU Challenges with Love Hailing from the heart of Indiana, Calley Burnett's life took a sudden turn when her little one, Spencer, was diagnosed with congenital heart defects. This unforeseen chapter led her family into the intricate world of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), transforming Burnett from an apprehensive parent to a steadfast advocate. During Spencer's stay at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, where he received care, Burnett intimately experienced the complexities and emotional rollercoaster tied to congenital heart defects. The dedicated medical team at Riley left an indelible mark, fueling not just gratitude but also a newfound commitment to support families facing similar heart-wrenching circumstances. Crafting a New Destiny: From Family Business to NICU Nurse Before embarking on this unexpected journey, Burnett was deeply immersed in a family business, blissfully unaware of the twists life had in store. Spencer's diagnosis acted as a catalyst for a profound shift. Inspired by the compassionate care witnessed at Riley Hospital for Children, Burnett took a leap of faith, enrolling in nursing school in 2019 with a deep-seated desire to contribute to the well-being of others. Choosing to become a NICU nurse wasn't merely a career shift; it was a manifestation of a mother's love and an unwavering commitment to advocacy. The journey through nursing school, laden with challenges and sacrifices, was a testament to Burnett's tenacity and determination to turn personal adversity into a force for positive change. Congenital heart defects, a broad spectrum of structural abnormalities present at birth, pose unique challenges for families. From anomalies in heart valves to irregularities in the heart's chambers, the journey is often laden with uncertainties and emotional turbulence. Burnett's role as an advocate, with her blend of personal experience and professional expertise, sheds light on this hidden struggle, offering a beacon of understanding and support for others. Read Also: Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: What Every Parent Needs To Consider A NICU Nurse's Dedication to Maternal Advocacy Having successfully navigated nursing school, Burnett found herself back at the heart of her family's journey - Riley Hospital for Children. Armed with both personal experience and professional acumen, she embraced the role of a NICU nurse, seamlessly weaving empathy into her medical proficiency. Burnett's commitment to maternal advocacy extends beyond the professional realm. Her unique perspective as a former NICU parent allows her to connect deeply with families. Beyond administering medical care, she provides invaluable emotional support, recognizing the myriad challenges parents face when their children are diagnosed with congenital heart defects. In sharing her heartwarming journey, Calley Burnett stands as a symbol of resilience and compassion, offering a real-world testament to the strength found in adversity. From the NICU worries to her current role as a NICU nurse and maternal advocate, Burnett's story unfolds as an authentic and relatable narrative, resonating with parents navigating the complexities of congenital heart defects. Related Article: Colorado Children's Deaths Shock Community: Suspects in Custody for Concrete-Filled Container, Trunk Tragedy Photo: (Photo : GUILLAUME SOUVANT/AFP via Getty Images ) Parenting YouTuber Ruby Franke and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt, who previously pleaded guilty to child abuse charges originating from one of Franke's children seeking help after escaping Hildebrandt's residence in August, have now been handed prison sentences. Each of them faces a potential maximum of 30 years in prison, the most severe penalty according to Utah law, as stated by the prosecutor after the hearing. Ruby Franke, Jodi Hildebrandt Convicted in Child Abuse Case Both Franke and Hildebrandt pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse in December in Washington County 5th District Court in Utah. Franke emotionally acknowledged her distorted reality and expressed remorse for her choices before the sentencing. Hildebrandt, identified as Franke's son's counselor, echoed her love for the children and opted for a guilty plea to spare them from emotional trauma during a trial. The charges stemmed from Franke's 12-year-old son escaping Hildebrandt's house, disclosing the abuse to a neighbor. The plea agreement detailed severe physical torture, forced labor without adequate provisions, and emotional manipulation inflicted on the child. Franke's son was subjected to prolonged physical restraints, resulting in injuries treated with unconventional remedies. Child Abuse Case Prosecutor Eric Clarke emphasized the case's religious extremism aspect, with Hildebrandt believed to have communicated regularly with God, influencing Franke. Clarke expressed concerns about Hildebrandt's potential to gather followers if released and highlighted the gravity of the child abuse, considering it one of the worst cases the office has encountered. Franke's attorneys acknowledged her acceptance of responsibility, while Hildebrandt's attorney emphasized her sincere commitment to the plea agreement. Franke's lawyer expressed satisfaction with the judge's decision and stated Franke's commitment to personal change during her prison term. Read Also: Former Poudre School District Paraprofessional Charged with 164 Counts of Child Abuse and Assault Each of them faces a potential maximum of 30 years in prison, the most severe penalty according to Utah law, as stated by the prosecutor after the hearing. Franke received four consecutive prison terms, each ranging from one to 15 years, with the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole to determine the actual prison time. Franke has a 30-day window to appeal the decision. Hildebrandt received an identical sentence of four consecutive terms, and like Franke, her prison duration will be decided by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole. Franke, known for her parenting advice on the now-closed "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, operating ConneXions Classroom, were initially charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse, each carrying a potential penalty of one to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. During the sentencing recommendation, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment faced by Franke's children to a "concentration camp-like setting," labeling Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke expressed concern about Hildebrandt, describing her as a "significant threat" to the community. Both women addressed the court before sentencing, with Hildebrandt expressing willingness to serve an appropriate term, and Franke admitting to inflicting injuries on her children while attributing her actions to distorted beliefs instilled by Hildebrandt. Franke acknowledged the charges as just and emphasized the safety they offer her family. The charges stem from Franke's guilty plea in December to four counts of child abuse, outlining disturbing details of torture inflicted on her children. The plea agreement revealed instances of physical restraint, forced labor, and emotional manipulation. Hildebrandt, who pleaded guilty shortly after Franke, was implicated in either committing or being aware of the abuse, including coercing Franke's daughter to jump into a cactus multiple times. Franke's family has undergone significant changes, with her husband filing for divorce and her siblings and parents blaming Hildebrandt for influencing her actions. Franke's family members described her as brainwashed and delusional due to Hildebrandt's influence. Related Article: Jodi Hildebrandt Pleads Guilty in Child Abuse Case Linked to Vlogger Ruby Franke Well, our cruise ended this morning where it first began. We disembarked from our ship, the Ovation of the Seas, and made our way to our hotel in Sydney. Our group had said their goodbyes last night. Most of them are over the Pacific Ocean by now. The Australians who were among us are probably already home. I always find the end of such tours rather sad: You get to know new people quite well (or strengthen relationships with people that you had already met). You tour with them, you share meals with them, you meet with them for devotionals, you play games with them, you have long conversations with them, youre together with them pretty much every waking hour for a week or two weeks or so, and then its suddenly over and theyre gone. It is, frankly, a little bit like mortality . . . and death I did ten lectures during the cruise, all of them on the ships at-sea days, each of which lasted between ninety minutes and two hours. That, too, will probably remind some of death. However, most of the members of our group appear to have survived the ordeal. What may have helped them to do so is this: We had a room reserved for our use (for the lectures and, at other times, for playing games or just gathering to talk) on deck thirteen at the very stern of the boat, with a ceiling to floor window that provided a wonderful view of the sea and our ships wake. I call your attention to two new items that were posted today on the website of the Interpreter Foundation: The Book of Mormon in Context Lesson 9: His Name Shall Be Called The Prince of Peace: 2 Nephi 11-19 For the 4 February 2024 Come, Follow Me segment of the Interpreter Radio Show, Martin Tanner and Hales Swift and Brent Schmidt discussed Book of Mormon lesson 9, His Name Shall Be Called The Prince of Peace, covering 2 Nephi 11-19. That discussion was recorded, and has now been archived, shorn of commercial interruptions, and made available (at no cost to you) for your listening pleasure. The other segments of the 4 February 2024 radio program can be accessed at https://interpreterfoundation.org/interpreter-radio-show-february-4-2024. The Interpreter Radio Show can be heard weekly on Sunday evenings from 7 to 9 PM (MDT), on K-TALK, AM 1640. Or, if that doesnt float your boat, you can listen live on the Internet at ktalkmedia.com. Come, Follow Me Study and Teaching Helps (2024): Lesson 9, February 26-March 3: 2 Nephi 11-19 His Name Shall Be Called . . . The Prince of Peace Editors Note: Four years ago, Jonn Claybaugh began writing the Study and Teaching Helps series of articles for Interpreter. We now have these wonderful and useful posts for all four years of Come, Follow Me lessons. Beginning this year we will be reposting these articles, with dates, lesson numbers, and titles updated for the current years lessons. Jonn has graciously agreed to write new study aids for those lessons that do not directly correspond to 2020 lessons. One of the corollaries to Murphys Law holds that Its impossible to make anything foolproof, because fools are so ingenious. I thought of this today when I noticed a thread over at what I call the Peterson Obsession Board. Several days ago, I posted an entry (Of Sheep Shearing) in the course of which, having just observed the expert shearing of a sheep near Picton, on the South Island of New Zealand, I briefly reflected on the complete submission of the Son to the will of the Father as reflected in the Christian application of the suffering servant poem in Isaiah 53:3-7 to the atoning life and death of Jesus Christ: He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. I am simultaneously astounded and unsurprised to see that, immediately thereafter, some of the folks on the Obsession Board apparently began to pretend or do they really believe it? is that even remotely possible? that, despite what I wrote, I wasnt really pondering what Christians have regarded for the past two thousand years as a messianic prophecy. Rather, as they affect to understand me, I was advocating robotic, unthinking, slavish, and uninformed obedience to the leaders of my church and celebrating ignorant, unreasoning, and unquestioning acceptance of the teachings of my church. Robin Goodfellows (aka Pucks) observation at III.ii.115 of William Shakespeares A Midsummer Nights Dream is certainly applicable to such bizarre misreading. In closing, here is a quartet of horrors that Ive lately retrieved from the Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File: Church responds with service and aid after deadly Chile forest fires: Area presidency statement invites people to pray for firefighters and provide strength to affected families Elder Stevenson Visits Humanitarian Project in Tanzania Elder Taniela B. Wakolo Prays for Peace, Love and Unity for French Polynesia Service Benefits Children and Communities Around South America: Donations, service projects and efforts follows the teachings of Jesus Christ Posted from Sydney, New South Wales, Australia His dream to work hard and provide for his young family of four had ended bizarrely in Canada just 4 months after his arrival. According to the Canadian police, Adu Boakye, 39, was shot and killed in a random shooting incident which took place in the North York area in northwest Toronto. A statement from the police said: "On Saturday, February 17, 2024, at approximately 3:05 p.m., police responded to a call for shooting in the Jane Street and Driftwood Avenue area. It is reported that: the victim was located with gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were performed and the man was transported to hospital. The man succumbed to his injuries at the hospital and was pronounced deceased. The victim has been identified as Adu Boakye, 39, of Ghana. Detective Phillip Campbell further told journalists that Adu Boakye and another unnamed 16-year-old boy were shot indiscriminately less than 24 hours apart while waiting for a bus in the area of Jane Street and Driftwood Avenue on Friday and Saturday. Our investigation thus far has revealed there is no relationship between Mr. Boakye and the individual, or individuals, who shot him, Det. Phillip Campbell told reporters. And like the victim shot the day before, Boakye was innocently going about his business [when he was shot], he added. Police have since released some details about the assailant in what they say is a gang attack asking the public to volunteer information that could lead to his arrest. 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 Russia is offering governments in Africa a "regime survival package" in exchange for access to strategically important natural resources, a major new report has found. Internal Russian government documents, seen by the BBC, also detail how it is working to change mining laws in West Africa, with the ambition of dislodging Western companies from an area of strategic importance. This is part of the process of the Russian government taking over the businesses of the Wagner mercenary group, broken up after a failed coup in June 2023. The multibillion-dollar operations are now mostly being run by the Russian "Expeditionary Corps", managed by the man accused of being behind the attempt to murder Sergei Skripal using the Novichok nerve agent on the streets of the UK - a charge Russia has denied. "This is the Russian state coming out of the shadows in its Africa policy," says Jack Watling, land warfare specialist at the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) and one of the report's authors. Back in June 2023, Yevgeny Prigozhin was probably the most feared and famous mercenary in the world. His Wagner Group was in control of billions of dollars' worth of companies and projects, while his fighters were central to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Then, he decided to march on Moscow, ostensibly calling for the removal of the defence minister and head of the general staff, but in reality threatening President Vladimir Putin in a way no-one had before. Within weeks he had died in a highly suspicious plane crash, along with much of the Wagner leadership. There was widespread speculation at the time about what would happen to the Wagner Group. Now, we have the answer. According to Dr Watling, "there was a meeting in the Kremlin fairly shortly after Prigozhin's mutiny, in which it was decided that Wagner's Africa operations would fall directly under the control of Russian military intelligence, the GRU". Control was to be handed to Gen Andrey Averyanov, head of Unit 29155, a secretive operation specializing in targeting killings and destabilising foreign governments. But it seems Gen Averyanov's new business was not destabilizing governments, but rather securing their future, as long as they paid by signing away their mineral rights. In early September, accompanied by deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, Gen Averyanov began a tour of former Wagner operations in Africa. They started in Libya, meeting warlord Gen Khalifa Haftar. Their next stop was Burkina Faso where they were greeted by 35-year-old coup leader Ibrahim Traore. After that, they landed in the Central African Republic, possibly the most well-established Wagner operation on the continent, before heading to Mali to meet the leaders of the junta there. On a subsequent trip they also met General Salifou Modi, one of the military men who seized power in Niger last year. Readouts of the various meetings demonstrate that the two men were reassuring Wagner's partners on the continent that the demise of Prigozhin did not mean the end of his business deals. Reports of the meeting with Capt Traore of Burkina Faso confirmed cooperation would continue in "the military domain, including the training of Burkinabe officer cadets and officers at all levels, including pilots in Russia". In short, the death of Prigozhin did not mean the end for the junta's relationship with Russia. In some ways, it would become deeper still. The three West African states with close links to Wagner - Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso - have all experienced military takeovers in recent years. They have since announced their withdrawal from the regional bloc Ecowas, and the creation of their own "Alliance of Sahel States". Maybe the most entwined with the mercenaries was Mali, where an ongoing Islamist insurgency, combined with multiple coups, had left an essentially failed state. Previously, security assistance had come in the form of the UN mission known as Minusma, alongside the French military's long-running counter-insurgency operation. But there was no particular fondness for France, the former colonial power, and so when the Wagner group offered to replace their security operations with Russian backing, the offer was accepted. "The French were tolerated, rather than welcomed," says Edwige Sorgho-Depagne, an analyst of African politics who works for Amber Advisers. "The French mandate to help in the terror crisis in the Sahel was always regarded as limited in time. So, the fact that the French stayed for that long - over 10 years - without finding a way to end the crisis didn't help". 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 Minister of Finance, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, has urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to develop a structured roadmap for the efficient implementation of tax measures in the 2024 Budget. He also emphasised the need for coordination and clear roles to exceed the 2024 revenue target of GH146 billion. Dr Adam gave the charge in Accra yesterday as the newly appointed Finance Minister when he led a delegation from the ministry to engage the management of the GRA to discuss collaborative efforts to boost domestic revenue mobilisation. The minister, accompanied by some of his directors, was received by the Commissioner-General of the GRA, Rev. Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, in the company of the management of the GRA, including Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners. The Finance Minister outlined three key priorities for the GRA under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Extended Credit Facility programme with the country as cleaning the taxpayer register by June this year, completing data migration from all existing portals to the integrated tax administration system (ITAS) portal, and operationalising major models for registration, returns filing and payments by December this year. Dr Adam commended the GRA's performance of surpassing revenue targets in the previous year, but pointed out the untapped potential that could be optimised for greater achievements. Pivotal Acknowledging the pivotal role of GRA in the government's fiscal consolidation reforms, he said it was necessary to work collaboratively to surpass the GH145 billion revenue target outlined in the 2024 Budget. The Finance Minister acknowledged the potential for further optimisation and stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to exceed the ambitious 2024 target of GH146 billion. Dr Adam, who previously served as Minister of State at the Ministry of Energy and later at the Ministry of Finance before being made the substantive minister last Wednesday, highlighted the critical role of meeting those commitments in the success of the IMF programme and urged the GRA to work diligently towards achieving them. He expressed his commitment to collaborate and support the GRA to advance domestic revenue mobilisation for the benefit of the country's economic stability and development. After emphasising the critical importance of domestic revenue mobilisation, Dr Adam also urged the GRA to advance the cause swiftly in a citizen-friendly manner. Addressing concerns about the delayed implementation of some of the 2024 revenue measures, particularly the Value Added Tax (VAT) on domestic electricity consumption, Dr Adam stressed the urgency and the focus required for efficient revenue generation. He urged the GRA to leverage digital solutions under the government's digitalisation agenda and expand the electronic VAT (E-VAT) mechanism for improved revenue collection. Dr Adam expressed concern about perceived corruption in trade and ports of entry, and announced his intention to visit the ports personally, with the aim of assessing and addressing issues first-hand. He encouraged the GRA to instill discipline and minimize revenue leakages caused by misdescriptions, misclassification and other irregularities. Exceeding revenue targets Rev. Dr Ammishaddai Owusu- Amoah assured the minister of the GRAs readiness to support the objectives and targets outlined, including initiatives from the IMF. He also acknowledged upcoming revenue initiatives for 2024 and reaffirmed GRA's dedication to their successful delivery. Highlighting the impressive economic growth, Rev. Dr Owusu-Amoah said the country celebrated four consecutive years of economic growth, surpassing expectations, in spite of global challenges. "We have consistently exceeded expectations. The GRA has successfully navigated challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing resilience in maintaining economic momentum, Rev. Dr Owusu-Amoah said. The Commissioner-General highlighted the commitment to addressing gaps in systems and fast-tracking processes, emphasising dedication to the goals outlined in the medium-term plan (MTP). Regarding concerns about data privacy and information gathering, the Commissioner-General revealed collaborations with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to enhance the accuracy of data. The GRA is now one of only five African countries automatically receiving information from 70 countries worldwide, aligning with Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) requirements. This accomplishment has drawn interest from other nations, with Rwanda seeking guidance from Ghana on satisfying OECD standards, Rev. Dr Owusu-Amoah said. He underscored the authoritys commitment to transparency and efficiency in operations and promised it will continue working towards national aspirations. The Commissioner, Support Services Division of GRA, Julie Essiam, expressed enthusiasm for collaboration with the ministry. "We are very excited and happy to work together. We are eager to collaborate further in achieving shared goals, she stated. Also, the Commissioner, Domestic Tax and Revenue Division, Edward Apenteng Gyamerah, indicated the readiness of his division and the GRA to mobilise domestic revenue for development and national growth. Source: graphiconline 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 Guinea's military junta, which seized power in a coup in September 2021, has dissolved the government. The announcement was made through a presidential decree read on state TV on Monday by the presidency's Secretary General, Brig Gen Amara Camara. Mr Camara did not disclose the reason for the dissolution or say when a new government will be put in place. Ministers in the dissolved government were ordered to surrender their passports and official vehicles. Their bank accounts have additionally been frozen. The junta also instructed security agencies to "seal" all the country's borders until government ministries have been fully handed over to the junta. Lower-level officials will temporarily manage state ministries until a new government is appointed, Mr Camara said. The dissolved government was led by Bernard Goumou, who had been appointed prime minister by coup leader Mamady Doumbouya. In September 2021, Col Doumbouya led Guinea's armed forces to overthrow elected President Alpha Conde, after a series of protests over Mr Conde's controversial bid for a third term. Guinea and several other countries in West and central Africa have been hit by coups in recent years. Others include Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Gabon. The coups have been strongly condemned by the West African regional bloc Ecowas, as well as the African Union and the UN. Guinea is expected to hold elections to restore democratic rule in 10 months, when the 24-month transition period set by the junta and Ecowas expires. Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A former head of Operations of the Ghana Police Service, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Agordzo (Rtd) has said that election security is a collective responsibility of all stakeholders. According to ACP Agordzo, maintaining security during elections is not the sole responsibility of the Police Service alone. He made this assertion in sequel to an earlier comments made by DCOP Waabu on Joyfm where he had said categorically that the military is going to be exempted from the 2024 election operations. Speaking in an interview on TV3, monitored by Peacefmonline.com, the retired police officer ACP Agordzo noted that, It is too emphatic a statement for anybody to say that the military will not be involved in the election. First of all, when it comes to election security management there are different roles, the police may be at the forefront, they may be at the polling stations, they may be at the constituency collation centers, they may be at the regional collation centers, they may even be deployed elsewhere but there are other duties like rapid reaction forces where they have to deal with patrols and other things. There are other people who may be at the borders to ensure that terrorists do not infiltrate during the period when the security forces are concentrating on the election. So when you look at the totality of all these, may be if [Waabu] had said something to the effect that the military will not be at the polling station, he may be right. If he had said something like the military may not be at the collation centers, he may be right but when he, makes certain emphatic statements that the military will not be involved in the election; that is a fallacy. ACP Agordzo (Rtd) added that, during elections, jorunalists and other civil society groups should be part of the team assigned to promote peace and not just the security forces alone. When he said it is our baby, election issues are not the bay of the police, election security is a collective responsibility. I have even advocated that when it comes to election security we must even have journalists there, we must have civil society, instead of just making it purely military, he added. 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 In a heartfelt celebration of National Chocolate Day which demonstrated asteadfast commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, Fidelity Bank Ghana, the nations largest privately-owned bank, embarked on a series of initiatives, spreading joy and making a positive impact in communities across the country. Spearheaded by the Customer Experience team, the bank kicked off the festivities with a thoughtful donation to New Horizon School, followed by special events honouring mothers of children with disabilities and a generous contribution to Cosmos Center for Children with Special Needs. The Customer Experience team from Fidelity Bank continued their long-standing tradition of supporting New Horizon, this year offering a double dose of sweetness: a donation of GHS 10,000 and two boxes of locally-made chocolates. The donation will provide essential educational materials, directly impacting the learning environment and empowering students with disabilities. The chocolates, however, served as more than just a sweet indulgence. They became a catalyst for connection and shared joy, as the Customer Experience team interacted with the students, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Led by Comfort Amoo, Head, Customer Experience, the donation event, held on Thursday, February 15th, 2024, highlighted Fidelity Bank's longstanding commitment to inclusivity, empowering the less fortunate, and community development. "Building an inclusive future where everyone has access to opportunity, regardless of ability, is a core value at Fidelity Bank," declared Comfort Amoo. "Our enduring support for New Horizon exemplifies our commitment to this principle. The interactions and conversations we share with the students here are truly enriching, reminding us to return each year and offer our love and support." Amoo continued, "Celebrating National Chocolate Day and the month of love presented the perfect opportunity to share these moments with our New Horizon family. We're delighted to contribute both financial resources and essential items to their school." "We are deeply grateful for Fidelity Bank's continued support over the years," expressed Jocelyn Adoboe, Deputy Principal (Academic Section) of New Horizon Special School, extending her thanks on behalf of the students, boards, and management. "Their consistent contributions have had a transformative impact, especially during this season of love. We appreciate not being left behind, and are immensely grateful for their continued belief in our journey." Adoboe added, "From supporting us through challenging times to offering this generous donation, Fidelity Bank truly embodies the spirit of partnership. This combination of essential materials and the engaging chocolate experience perfectly represents 'learning through joy.' We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to further enhance our educational environment." Beyond chocolate delights, Fidelity Bank's Accra Sector recognized the remarkable resilience of mothers raising children with disabilities. A special luncheon and donation event held at the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) offered these extraordinary women a moment of respite, connection, and support. Mrs. Hannah Awadzi, Executive Director of the Special Mothers Project, commended the bank for its commitment to inclusivity and urged further engagement with issues affecting children with disabilities. Ms. Lila Daisy Hagan, Branch Sales and Services Manager at the Ridge Towers branch of Fidelity Bank, emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of these mothers as part of the bank's Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. Meanwhile, the Northern sector of Fidelity Bank celebrated National Chocolate Day at Cosmos Center for Children with Special Needs in Dormaa Ahenkro. The bank made a generous donation of GHS 10,000 worth of items to support the centres commendable efforts in providing specialized care for children with special needs. Fidelity Bank's Corporate Social Responsibility Co-Ordinator, Majorie Quansah, emphasized the importance of National Chocolate Day extending beyond mere indulgence: "This day presents an opportunity to spread kindness and make a positive impact in our communities" she said. "At Fidelity Bank, we believe in using such occasions to create meaningful connections," Quansah added. "Through our various initiatives, like those at New Horizon School and Cosmos Center for Children with Special Needs, we aim to brighten lives and empower individuals. We are proud to contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society." Fidelity Bank remains committed to corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at education, community development, and empowerment. By prioritizing meaningful contributions and fostering inclusive environments, the bank remains steadfast in its mission to create a brighter future for all Ghanaians. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Professor Joseph Osafo has lauded the proposed selection of the former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party, Dan Botwe, to head the campaign team of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The former General Secretary and former Minister of Local Government, according to information, is going to play a principal role as the campaign manager, joining hands with other leading members of the party to ensure Dr. Bawumia's vision materializes. The other names that have popped up as members of the team include Frederick Opare-Ansah, Kwabena Agyepong, Nana Akomea, Osei Bonsu Amoah, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Adomako Baafi and Akbar Khomeini. Speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", Prof. Osafo reposed confidence in Dan Botwe to do a good job for the Vice President. He touted Dan Botwe as a great, effective, and experienced leader, believing Dr. Bawumia should rest assured that the manager will fully deliver on his task. "I think it's a good choice. When it comes to the NPP political terrain, you would notice that Dan Botwe is one of the finest persons...He is bringing experience," Prof. Joseph Osafo stated. He admonished the team not to be emotional in executing their duties, especially in their counter-arguments with the opposition. He asked them to keep in mind that the opposition's role is to magnify the negatives; hence, he advised the team to remain focused on their cause. Watch video below Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video National Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi says Ghanaians must trust his party's flagbearer to fight corruption. Mr Gyamfi described Mr John Dramani Mahama as an incorruptible person who will not condone the act in his next government if elected as president. He made this known during a press conference dubbed Moment of Truth to reveal the corrupt Agyapa Royalties deal by the ruling New Patriotic Party. "H.E John Dramani Mahama has demonstrated both in government and out of government, that he detests corruption, and will never condone corruption, nor shield perpetrators of corrupt acts. "He has stated clearly, that the days of the corruption clearing agent, will come to an end on January 7, 2025, when by the grace of God, he assumes office as President. He has said and demonstrated before, that the sword of the fight against corruption will cut both ways under his government, whether you are a member of his government or not. Mr Gyamfi said told journalists. He further assured that his party will investigate and prosecute persons involved in the botched Agyapa Royalties deal if the NDC is voted back to power. Fellow countrymen and women, the Agyapa scam amounts to wilfully causing financial loss to the state, and the culprits of same must not go unpunished. We in the NDC, and all well-meaning Ghanaians, repose huge trust and confidence in H.E John Mahama, to pursue and retrieve for the state, public funds that have been lost to looting schemes such as this Agyapa scandal, the PDS scandal, the BOSTGATE scandal and other acts of naked thievery by officials of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government and their party apparatchiks," he noted. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/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 Nana Akomea has clarified his response to the General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) over the latters recent tribal tirade at the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The NDC General Secretary, Fiifi Kwetey described the NPP flagbearer and Vice President of the Republic, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as a disgrace to northerners stating the Vice President has failed in his duties to the people of Ghana, particularly the northern sector. Nana Akomea, who is not known for throwing missiles at opponents, chose to meet the NDC Chief Scribe boot for boot and, in a write-up, reacted to Fiifi Kweteys jab at the Veep. Akomea argued that Fifi Kwetey should not overlook similar lamentations made by another NDC politician from the North, Martin Amidu. The STC CEO and Deputy Campaign Chairman of the Bawumia campaign team reminded Fiifi Kwetey of Martin Amidu, who held various positions within the NDC including Deputy Attorney General, Vice Presidential candidate, Attorney General and Minister of Justice and the first occupant of the Office Of Special Prosecutor, publicly labeling former President John Dramani Mahama as a disgrace to the North in 2015. Nana Akomea Replies Fiifi Kwetey I have seen a video of Mr Fifi Kwetey, shouting to an audience in the Northern Ghana, that Dr Bawumia was a disgrace to the North, and warned voters in the North not to vote for Dr Bawumia on account of his disgraceful behaviour. Dr Bawumias behaviour that caused Mr Fiifi Kwetey to warn voters in the North against him, is not clear, but l remember another lament about disgraceful behaviour against another politician from the North. This particular lamentation came from another NDC politician, Mr Martin AmiduMr Amidu believed that President Mahamas tolerance of corruption was so disgraceful that it would be difficult for the country to vote for another Northerner to become president. In Amidus words because of his behaviour, for the next 20, 30 years this country will not vote for a Northern President and he is disgracing me as a Northerner; and l dont like it. If Fiifi Kwetey is looking for a politician who has been a disgrace to the North, he need not look further than in his party, as testified by a Northern NDC politician, Nana wrote. I am a Tiger Akomeas response seemingly shocked the host of Peace FMs Kokrokoo morning show, Kwami Sefa Kayi, because he is not known for exhibiting such behaviors. Mr. Sefa Kayi therefore gave the STC boss during the programme on Tuesday, February 20, the opportunity to explain why he would engage in something uncharacteristic of his nature. In reply, Nana Akomea justified his comments stating although naturally he wouldnt do what he did, he however chose this route because the person who verbally attacked Dr. Bawumia is no less a person but General Secretary of the largest opposition party. He stated that if it were any other person like some party organizer somewhere, he would not have found it worthy to reply the comments but Fiifi Kwetey holds a prominent position, hence his utterances demand a response. Nana Akomea described himself as a tiger, stating sometimes he has to roar to put certain people like Fiifi Kwetey in check. "I am a tiger...So, the likes of such people, the only way you can straighten them is to show them that the path they've taken is wrong", he asserted. 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 Former Head of Linguistics at the University of Ghana, Professor Kofi Agyekum, popularly called "Opanyin Agyekum", has backed Dr. Bawumia's "Tap and Go" initiative but cautions against politicization of it. According to him, this initiative aimed at improving the transport services and fostering a digital move in the transport sector can be successful only when those in charge execute their responsibilities without engaging in partisan politics. Opanyin Agyekum was hopeful of the future of the sector should the "Tap and Go" become effective as, he noted, it will facilitate the services that the transport companies provide as well as encourage passengers to board the buses with ease. He also outlined other benefits of the project but warned this good move will extinguish immediately political opponents decide to fight it in order to bring their party into power or government officials manipulate the system for their personal gains. "Let's not mix it with party politics...and every person placed in charge of something should think that he/she is not doing it for himself/herself and his/her family but rather doing it for God and country for whatever you do, its consequences await you in the future", he gave this advice while speaking on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show. Tap and Go Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia launched the Tap and Go transport service in Accra on Monday, February 19 at the Head Office of Metro Mass Limited which becomes the first intra and inter-city public transport service onboard the unique digital platform. The Tap and Go transport service is a digital platform for multiple public transport services including a digital card preloaded with cash which can be used to pay transport fare by tapping the card on a fixed machine on a bus or rail. It also has a virtual card option on mobile phones which can be selected through the Tap and Go app for those who dont wish to use the physical card. It is a momentous occasion in our journey towards a more efficient and digitally empowered transportation system. Ghanas public transport system is faced with several challenges. Notably, delays at stations, inability to identify passengers in case of accidents, corruption with drivers under declaring their earnings, inability to effectively monitor vehicle activities and financial performance of vehicles, lack of access to credit due to inability of banks to verify the revenue performance of vehicles, difficulty in getting the exact amounts to pay transport fares, receiving fake currencies, different fares for the same journey, difficulty of getting change for passengers and of course robbery against cars and passengers, due to cash being carried around, Dr. Bawumia said, adding government, in collaboration with the private sector, therefore, developed the Tap and Go Transport Service, to address the above problems and to help formalize the informal transport sector, with the help of a well structured and tested technology. 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 Vice Chairman of the Bawumia 2024 Campaign Team and the Chief Executive Officer of the Intercity State Transport Cooperation (STC), Nana Akomea, has said that, Former President John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress 24-hour economy proposal lacks clarity and relevance. The former Okaikwei South legislator expressed skepticism in the 24-hour mantra of the John Mahama-NDC campaign Team. In an interview on Face to Face on Citi TV with Umaru Sanda Amadu, monitored by Peacefmonline.com, Nana Akomea questioned the feasibility of the proposal as far as practical market conditions are concerned. What will emerge in the campaign if Mahama says 24-hour economy? Me, I dont understand it. When you ask them, they say it means people selling waakye can do so throughout the night. When you ask another, they say farmers can farm throughout the night. They say they will put street lights there, give free electricity and all of that. Depending on who you speak to, they give you all kinds of explanations. Oye Bampoe Addo said this week that farmers can farm throughout the day. So its not very clear. You cant legislate market conditions, you cant pass a law and say Citi FM and all radio stations should run 24 hours, he asserted. Nana Akomea emphasized that the focus should be on what they bring to the table and their offer propositions instead of championing a course that lacks clarity. Comparing the two main contenders for the the December 2024 general elections, Nana Akomea said, What are the two gentlemen bringing to the table, what are their visions? What are the offer prepositions? This business that oh Bawumia is part of Akufo-Addo, hes part of the difficulty. If you listen to the NDC, Bawumia is responsible for the difficulty. All of that will die down. Akomea underscored the significance of Bawumias proposal to stabilize the economy using gold. He explained Bawumias intention to establish a gold purchase programme by the Bank of Ghana, emphasizing the revolutionary nature of the idea. Bawumias message is that Im going to put this country on the gold standard. One of the biggest things we have in this country that affects the cost of living is the instability of the cedi. Because we are an import-dependent economy. We import so much, so theres a demand for dollars and makes the cedi weak. One way of holding your currency is by pitching it on gold. We produce the best gold in the world. We have 8 tons. The whole concept of using gold as a stabilising force for the currency has not occurred to us since Dr Kwame Nkrumahs time. Bawumia says Im going to have a gold purchase programme by the Bank of Ghana (BoG). Hes going to tap into the gold, hes not going to encourage foreigners. Hes going to have foreigners come into the country with their expertise and capital. The ownership will be Ghanaians. We will mine the gold for our reserves, and fix the cedi. These ideas are revolutionary, the former MP Okaikwei South said. 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 A 41-year-old Lebanon man was convicted of homicide by vehicle while DUI and related charges last week after he crashed into a downed tree in 2021, killing a woman in the passenger seat. A jury found Vincent Sosnowski guilty of homicide by vehicle while DUI, involuntary manslaughter, two counts of DUI, reckless driving, speeding, and careless driving unintentional death on Feb. 15, court documents said. The Jan. 16, 2021, crash happened when Sosnowski who had a blood alcohol content of 0.135% crashed into a downed tree on U.S. Route 422 in North Cornwall Township while driving around 25 miles per hour over the speed limit, according to the Lebanon County District Attorneys Office. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Murat Nurtleu has received the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General - Head of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) Kaha Imnadze, Trend reports. During the meeting, the parties discussed the growing role of Central Asia, issues of rational use of transboundary water resources in the region, the development of the Middle Corridor and transport and logistics potential of both Kazakhstan and the entire Central Asian region, as well as the situation in Afghanistan. The parties noted the importance of development and strengthening the tools of preventive diplomacy to maintain peace and security in the region. Murat Nurtleu noted that Kazakhstan, like all countries of Central Asia, attaches priority importance to cooperation with the UN, recognizing the leading role of the UN in addressing challenges in the field of security and sustainable development. "Kazakhstan is interested in ensuring peace and security in the region and sustainable development of Central Asian countries. We note the relevance of continuing numerous creative processes in the Central Asian region, emphasizing the important role of the UN in this process," he said. In turn, Kaha Imnadze, positively assessing the long-term partnership and trust that has developed between Kazakhstan and the UN, expressed gratitude for the commitment to the principles of multilateralism, as well as the active position of Kazakhstan in matters of regional cooperation. A Harrisburg teenager is charged with shooting at and nearly hitting police officers on a probation check in Harrisburg last month, authorities said. Cedric Dunston, 16, was with a group of 20 to 30 males in the area of North 18th and Regina streets on Jan. 4 when Harrisburg police, Pennsylvania parole and Dauphin County probation officers arrived in the area to perform a routine probation check, according to court documents. An affidavit of probable cause said the group of males appeared to be filming a music video as the officers arrived around 5:21 p.m. Shots were fired at the officers as they got out of their vehicles and started to approach the group, court documents said. More than 50 years after a Pennsylvania woman disappeared, police are hoping a coroners inquest will provide progress in the case. Ilonka Cann, 22, was married and had a 15-month-old son when she was reported missing on May 27, 1970, from her home on Cann Road in Huntingdon Township, Luzerne County. Shed last spoken to her parents on May 25, Pennsylvania State Police said. Ewen MacIntosh, who played Keith Bishop in the original U.K. version of The Office died on Monday at age 50. It is with a heavy heart I can confirm the very sad news of our client Ewens passing. Ewen was a wonderful actor and an even better human being, Just Right Management said in a statement to CNN on Wednesday. He made people laugh and possessed such a kind heart. He touched the lives of all who came into contact with him. Just Right did not give a cause of death but said that the actor and comedian had been suffering from ill health over the past two years and had been receiving support from a residential care home, according to the New York Times. MacIntosh was best known for playing the monotone, Scotch egg-eating Bishop on the BBC comedy show The Office, which later became the basis for the American sitcom that starred Steve Carrell. One of the shows creators, comedian Ricky Gervais, paid tribute to MacIntosh on X, formerly known as Twitter. Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as Big Keith from The Office, has passed away, he wrote. An absolute original. RIP. The shows other creator, Stephen Merchant, also paid tribute to MacIntosh on X. So very sad to hear of Ewen MacIntoshs passing. A lovely, uniquely funny man who played Keith in The Office, he wrote. So hilarious when we asked him to improv a voicemail message that we wrote more dialogue for him, and he stole every scene he was in. A total one-off. A tragic loss. RIP. In addition to The Office, MacIntosh also appeared in the film The Lobster, the Ricky Gervais-created series After Life, and the 2017 romantic comedy Finding Fatimah. A Grammy and Emmy award-winning pianist will give a recital next month at a Pennsylvania university. Gloria Cheng will give a free, public recital at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 4 in Natalie Davis Rooke Recital Hall in the Sigried Weis Music Building at Bucknell University, in Lewisburg, Pa. The recital, called Root Progressions, the university said, will feature a set of world premieres by jazz composers, as part of the Bucknell Piano Series ... Cheng is visiting the university as part of a two-day residency. At 4 p.m. on March 4, she will discuss, Music, Math and the Keyboard in Olin Science Building and at 10:30 a.m. March 5 she will teach a piano masterclass at Rooke Recital Hall. Gloria is an iconic figure in the contemporary music world, having worked with almost all the most notable composers of our time from John Williams to John Adams, said Bucknell professor Qing Jiang, music, who co-directs the Universitys Piano Series. She has won some of the top awards in music, including Grammy and Emmy Awards, for her albums and projects. Cheng performs all over the world and was the winner of the Best Instrumental Soloist Performance (without orchestra) Grammy for her 2008 recording Piano Music of Salonen, Stucky, and Lutosawski. She also received a second nomination in 2013 for The Edge of Light: Messiaen/Saariaho. She made a film-composer documentary called Montage: Great Film Composers and the Piano, which aired on PBS SoCal, landing her a 2018 Los Angeles Area Emmy. Bucknell said Chengs Root Progressions project explores the nexus of jazz and experimental music in six commissions from noted composer/improvisers Anthony Davis, Jon Jang, James Newton, Arturo OFarrill, Linda May Han Oh and Gernot Wolfgang. Cheng is an adjunct professor at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. She is frequently invited to advocate for contemporary music and, in 2012, was selected as a Regents Lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley. The Yvar Mikhashoff Trust for New Music awarded her their annual prize in 2023. By Earl Hopkins, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) A letter from Abraham Lincoln, after decades of being locked up inside a private collectors desk, has resurfaced. According to WHYY, a letter signed by the late president in the final hours of his life is being offered for $45,000 by Raab Collection. The Ardmore-based company which researches, buys, and sells documents of historical figures, purchased the letter from an anonymous owner. Collection president Nathan Raab told The Inquirer that he received a call from a woman who found the document after going through her late husbands writing desk. There was initially great interest tempered with caution, Raab said. Calls about historical items are common, and none of them can be authenticated until they arrive at the organization. Once it was authenticated, Raab said the letter was a poignant discovery. Anytime you get a document from Lincoln from his final days, something that wasnt known to have survived and one of the last things he touched, thats a very moving experience, Raab said. Under the letterhead Executive Mansion, the letter Lincoln wrote assigned Allen M. Gangewere to a federal auditing post. A.M. Gangewere is hereby appointed to discharge the duties of Third Auditor of the Treasury during the absence of the Auditor caused by sickness or otherwise, the letter read. His famed signature was then penned underneath. The 159-year-old letter was signed by Lincoln on April 11, 1865, two days after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to the Union Army in Virginia, ending the four-year Civil War. A presidential order signed by Abraham Lincoln is found inside a desk after decades. The Ardmore, Pennsylvania-based Raab Collection is selling the historic letter for $45,000. (Raab Collection/TNS)TNS With the bloody American conflict essentially over, Lincoln walked up to the second story window of the White House on April 11 to deliver a speech that he hoped would bind the once-torn nation. We meet this evening, not in sorrow, but in gladness of heart, he said in front of a crowd of nearly 3,000. A call for a national thanksgiving is being prepared, and will be duly promulgated. In the audience was stage actor John Wilkes Booth, who was angered by Lincolns sentiments. He failed to kidnap the president once before, but he told his colleagues the undoing of the Confederacy would result in Lincolns death. Four days later, Lincoln was assassinated by Booth. More: Poll declares Donald Trump worst president ever; heres how Biden fared A Colorado man died earlier this month after being bitten by his pet Gila monster. Christopher Ward, 34, of Lakewood, was taken to a hospital on Feb. 12 after being bitten by one of his two pet Gila monsters, according to NPR. He was placed on life support and died four days later. Wards girlfriend had told police that on that day she had heard something that didnt sound right, and entered a room to see one of the lizards, named Winston, attached to Wards hand. Ward instantly began vomiting and then passed out and was unable to breathe, according to a police report. Lakewood Animal Control Officers and the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife went to Wards home later and removed the two reptiles, planning to take them to a wildlife facility in a different state, USA Today reported. Twenty-six spiders of different species were also discovered at the home and were taken by officials, as they were not allowed in Lakewood, police said. The coroner said that the full cause of death wont be known until all the toxicology testing is finished, USA Today said. The largest lizards in the United States, Gila monsters are only one of two venomous reptiles in the world, and normally can be found in the southwestern U.S. and parts of Mexico. While their bites are painful and can make people pass out, they arent usually considered deadly, NPR said. The animals are protected under Arizona law and considered a near-threatened species in the country. The last known fatal incident involving a Gila monster bite was in 1930, according to medical toxicologist Dr. Nick Brandehoff, who speculated that Ward might have had an allergic reaction to the venom. A political-action committee that gleefully takes blistering shots at former President Donald Trump has fired its first volley in Pennsylvania this year with a billboard challenging Trumps sanity. Mad Dog PACs billboard installed along Route 30 in ruby red Westmoreland County southeast of Pittsburgh reads, In your guts you know hes NUTS! accompanied by a photo of a scowling Trump. Emmy Russell is headed to American Idol with her debut set for the shows upcoming episode this Sunday. If that name doesnt ring a bell, then maybe her grandmothers will. The 25-year-old Russell is the granddaughter of late country music legend Loretta Lynn, and she recently spoke her hometown newspaper, The Kingston Springs Gazette, ahead of the big show on Feb. 25. I just wanted to be around other young creatives like me, Russell told the newspaper. I think I just like the hard work of it, and it was outside the traditional way that my grandma had which is a publishing deal, get the record deal. I wanted something out there and fun and just forced me to do it because Im so shy and scared of going for it, she added. Russell has already dipped her toe into the performing scene, even taking the stage at the Grand Ole Opry last April in honor of her grandmothers birthday. Fans dont know yet how she fared in the upcoming tryout, but there are clues that she has the chops to go a long way with this music thing. For instance, with the buzz around her impending Idol appearance still fresh Tuesday, Russell shared a snippet of a new song she has been working on to Instagram. Singing Granted - on way home, she wrote. One of the songs Ive written with (Chris Rafetto) and (Kenny Foster) found this today. Have you ever taken anything for granted? Click on the video of her driving and singing and its pretty clear that Russell is ultra-talented. You can see it all, here. Grandma would be proud. Emmy this is too beautiful to not release, one person responded. Emmy yes I sure have taken some things for granted like myself, another person wrote. I am trying not to do that anymore. Love this song. You are so talented. Watching 4U on Idol. Even if the Idol tryout doesnt result in a golden ticket it really is hard to imagine she wont make it it seems pretty clear that she has a bright future. I use to run from my family heritage and wanna make my own path, when she announced her Opry appearance last year. I feel a deep connection to thank, accept and celebrate her, cause she believed in me from the start before anyone did. Not ashamed anymore. She was never ashamed of me. Im a granddaughter, and Im Emmy . Its all a part of me! This is the start of a beautiful journey. Couldnt be more excited. A Cumberland County animal rescue is raising funds to help an abandoned dog that was found inside a garage without food, water, or heat for an unknown amount of time. Pennsylvania state police and staff members at Speranza Animal Rescue in Mechanicsburg were contacted on the evening of Feb. 17 after the report of a 4-year-old female dog believed to be a German Shepherd mix that was found abandoned inside a locked garage, according to Speranza staff members. A family member of the person who owned the home found the dog, Speranza staff members told PennLive. The animal rescue, which named the dog Ramona, said she was treated for an ear infection Monday and was started on medicated baths, Speranza staff members said. The animal rescue says it believes that the dog was left behind to die a very slow and miserable death, as its unknown how long she was trapped there. We think she is a German Shepherd, Speranza Animal Rescue said in a Facebook post. But honestly we cant be sure because of the condition she is in But we know one thing for sure. This girl is a WARRIOR. A FIGHTER. The organization has already raised more than $9,000 to help treat Ramona, according to Facebook. Staff members said theyre reaching out to the animal rescues humane officer to investigate further. Getting Ramona healthy and finding a permanent home for her is the end goal, the animal rescue center told PennLive. And we are going to now show her there was a reason she fought, Speranza said on Facebook. A reason she survived. You are now safe. You are now loved. You are now free from the horrors. A western Pennsylvania medic was critically injured early Wednesday when the ambulance she was in crashed, according to the Pittsburgh Public Safety Department. The accident occurred shortly before 4:30 a.m. when the Lower Kiski ambulance from Armstrong County crossed the centerline and struck a guardrail as it was transporting a woman to a hospital. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. Kazakh delegation headed by Minister of Industry and Construction Kanat Sharlapayev is scheduled to pay working visits to the US and Canada from February 27 to March 4, said the representative of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry Aibek Smadiarov, Trend reports. "The Kazakh delegation, led by Minister of Industry and Construction Kanat Sharlapayev, is scheduled to undertake working visits to the US and Canada from February 27 to March 4, 2024. During the visit to the US, scheduled meetings involve engaging with industry agencies and leading US corporations to explore opportunities for attracting investments in developing subsoil resources and geological surveys in Kazakhstan," he said. Furthermore, as stated by Smadiarov, the Kazakh delegation is expected to take part in the official opening ceremony of the National Pavilion of Kazakhstan at the PDAC-2024 exhibition in Toronto, Canada. Additionally, they intend to participate in a meeting of the Kazakhstan Canada Business Council (KCBC) to establish contacts with representatives of Canadian mining companies. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Almost one-quarter of the high school students at a Lancaster County High School were absent Tuesday following a rumor of potential violence that circulated the day before. Superintendent Philip Gale of the Penn Manor School District told WGAL that 23 percent of high school students took off school as compared to 10 percent on a normal day. That came after notifications appeared on the districts Safe2Say anonymous tip website saying someone threatened to shoot up the school, the story said. Gale wrote in a letter that appeared on the districts website that the Penn Manor administration was made aware on Monday evening of a rumor of a threat to the high school. This rumor spread quickly and without discretion on social media. School district administrators worked with the Millersville Borough Police Department and trusted adults in the community to determine that there is no validity to the threat, the note read. We discovered the perceived threat was false and spread through social media, the letter continued. This false threat caused disruption to our school community and is being actively investigated by law enforcement. He also thanked those who contacted the district through email, phone calls, and especially the state-provided Safe2Say system, to alert us of the rumor. Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard. You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa at this link, or on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, and Stitcher. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit! Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | February 21, 2024 A few signatures on the petition of an auditor general candidate are a bit questionable, to say the least. Some people could see their water bills rise by $265 a year if an EPA proposal comes to pass. A bill wants to give more power to the people when it comes to building warehouses. Lastly, this guy said neigh a word when reined in by authorities. Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa. Todays episode refers to the following articles: If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too. As sponsored by Renewal by Anderson of Central PA. WILLIAMSPORT The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear the appeal of the states top prescriber of opioids in 2015 and 2016. The decision Tuesday is the fourth defeat in the bid by former Dr. Raymond J. Kraynak, 66, to have his conviction and 15-year prison sentence vacated. The Mount Carmel resident dubbed the pill mill doctor is likely at the end of the line in his bid to withdraw the guilty plea he entered in 2021 in U.S. Middle District Court. Costco may be one of Americas favorite places to shop. Being able to go to one store and get just about anything, from luxury wine to appliances to outdoor playgrounds to books to clothing...the big box store has just about everything you could need. Even their tech and digital photo shop is amazing. And you get all this at a marked down price. And right now, Costco is offering an unbelievable deal: a Costco 1-Year Gold Star Household Membership (that is a $60 value) PLUS $20 Digital Costco Shop Card for just $60 total. What does this deal include? A Gold Star Membership includes a FREE Household Card and allows you to purchase products for your home and family. Its also valid for one year at any Costco location worldwide and at Costco.com. With the Gold Star membership program, you unlock perks like online and in-store shopping, gas savings and the warehouse retailers 100% satisfaction guarantee. Plus you score the $20 Digital Costco shop card that gets you additional savings. Want to upgrade to an Executive Gold Star Membership? This will include a $40 Digital Costco shop card. Executive Membership is Costcos highest level of membership. Members earn an annual 2% Reward (up to $1,000) on qualified Costco, Costco.com, and Costco Travel purchases, as well as greater discounts on Costco Services, such as lower prices on check printing and free roadside assistance for vehicles covered through the auto insurance program. Best deals Costco has this week Ashley Dill covers the online shopping industry, writing about commerce. She can be reached at adill@pennlive.com. The 2023-24 English Premier League season reaches the midway point of the week with a chance for league leader Liverpool to flex its muscle against Luton Town. The match is scheduled to start at 2:30 p.m. ET at Anfield in Liverpool. The Liverpool vs. Luton Town contest is set to air on USA Network. Live streams are also available with introductory offers from FuboTV (free trial), DirecTV Stream (free trial) and Sling (low intro rate). Liverpool continues to reside atop the English Premier League standings in a tight race with Manchester City and Arsenal, both in points and goal differential. Every win matters in that effort, and so does every goal as the Reds enter Wednesdays match with Luton Town as a heavy favorite to win on their home turf. Liverpool has torched two of the Premier Leagues seven worst teams Brentford and Sheffield United by a 7-2 combined margin in two matches since falling 3-1 to Arsenal. Another opportunity for a two-goal type win exists with Luton stumbling into Anfield. LIVERPOOL VS. LUTON TOWN MATCH INFO When: 2:30 p.m. ET Where: Anfield, Liverpool. TV channel: USA Network Live stream options: FuboTV (free trial) | DirecTV Stream (free trial) | Sling (low intro rate) Moneyline: Liverpool -450, Luton +1000, draw +550. - Since pitching a surprising 4-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Jan. 30, Luton has blown a late 4-2 lead in a 4-4 draw with Newcastle United and lost back-to-back matches to Sheffield United (3-1) and Manchester United (2-1). The Hatters now sit at 5-5-14 and face relegation with their 18th position in the English Premier League with 20 points. Only Burnley and Sheffield with 13 points reside below them in the race to escape the bottom four. Liverpool and Luton Town are set for a 2:30 p.m. ET start on USA Network. Live streams are available with offers from FuboTV (free trial), DirecTV Stream (free trial) and Sling (low intro rate). This week in the UEFA Champions League play winds to a close with a pair of Wednesday matches highlighted by Arsenal battling FC Porto in the first leg of their Round of 16. Todays match is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET at Estadio do Dragao in Porto, Portugal. The Arsenal vs. FC Porto match will air exclusively on Paramount+, which offers a 7-day free trial to new users. Plans start at $5.99 monthly to watch sporting events on the CBS family of networks. That includes all future 2024 Champions League matches. Considering the trip to Portugal to begin the Round of 16 away from home, Arsenals position as a minus-160 in the betting line makes the Premier League power a heavy favorite to open with a win. Arsenal is running third in the Italian Serie A standings with a 17-4-4 record and reaches this point in the Champions League having won Group A with a 4-1-1 record and 16-4 goal differential. ARSENAL VS. FC PORTO MATCH INFO When: 3 p.m. ET Where: Estadio do Dragao in Porto, Portugal. TV channel: N/A Live stream options: Paramount+ exclusive (free trial) Moneyline: Arsenal -160, FC Porto +470, draw +280. FC Porto delivered a strong performance in the Champions League group stage with a 4-0-2 record where both losses came to Barcelona. Otherwise, Porto finished with as many points (12) and had a better goal differential at plus-7. Porto sits in third position in the Portuguese Primeira Liga standings with a 15-3-4 record while allowing just 16 goals in their 22 matches. A monster performance on the defensive end of the field could be Portos best shot at a positive result against Arsenal. Arsenal and FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 is scheduled for a 3 p.m. ET start exclusively on Paramount+ (free trial). The streaming service is home to sporting events on the CBS family of networks, including all future 2024 Champions League matches. ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 21. The Kazakh delegation will participate in the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the official representative of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry Aibek Smadiarov said during the briefing, Trend reports. "The Kazakh delegation at the conference will be headed by Minister of Trade and Integration Arman Shakkaliyev," he emphasized. According to him, it is expected that at the upcoming event, WTO member countries will consider issues of reforming this world organization, as well as the enactment and practical implementation of ministerial decisions and agreements adopted following the 12th Ministerial Conference, held June 12-17, 2022 in Geneva (Switzerland) under the chairmanship of Kazakhstan. Meanwhile, the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), chaired by the United Arab Emirates, will be held in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) from 26 to 29 February 2024. Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Henrik Juncker Denies Parker Talbot En Route to a Career-Best Score in Paris February 21, 2024 Josh Noy Global Live Events Assistant Manager After landing in Paris on Sunday, Henrik Juncker made his way over to Le Palais des Congres for the PokerStars European Poker Tour Paris. Shortly after, he decided to jump straight into Day 1b of the 2,200 France Poker Series High Roller. Fast forward to Tuesday evening, when Juncker was putting the finishing touches on the largest score of his poker career. The Danish pro took a commanding chip lead when the final four players bagged ahead of an unscheduled Day 3, ultimately knocking out PokerStars Ambassador Parker Talbot to take down his first PokerStars trophy. The High Roller event attracted a total of 1,794 entries and created a prize pool of 3,448,320. Play was forced to stop on Day 2, leaving four players left to come back and battle for the top prize of 544,790. Juncker sat down today with more than half of the chips in play, taking a little more than an hour to knock out all three opponents and prepare for his winners photos. 2,200 FPS High Roller Final Table Results Place Player Country Prize (EUR) 1 Henrik Juncker Denmark 544,790 2 Parker Talbot Canada 334,180 3 Guillermo Gordo Spain 238,700 4 Omar Del Pino Spain 183,590 5 Michel Leibgorin France 141,220 6 Rony Halimi France 108,670 7 Yunsheng Sun China 83,600 8 Dann Assouline France 64,310 9 Sonny Franco France 49,460 Winners Reaction While the trip to the French capital was planned, jumping straight into the FPS High Roller was not. Extremely delighted, Juncker told PokerNews moments after the victory. I actually flew in [Sunday] morning, I didnt intend to play but figured I might as well give it a shot, and here we are. Despite bagging a big lead overnight, Juncker had plenty of work to do on Day 2 as players were sent on a break before reaching the final two tables. I was extremely short yesterday; I think I had four bigs with 17 left. Got a few lucky double-ups and everything went my way, played some really good poker players, better than me, so Im really lucky to win. Those doubles put him back in contention, navigating his way through a difficult field to stack up almost 55 percent of the chips and head to sleep with a big advantage four-handed. Had a good nights sleep, had lunch with some friends talking about different scenarios playing out, said Juncker. I had a plan and ran good today as well, so it makes poker easy. That run included eliminating the final two players before play was suspended for the night and picking up right where he left off this afternoon on the added Day 3. FPS High Roller Final Table Final Four Action Play began in the main room with the final four players ready for action. Short stack Guillermo Gordo started the day with just five big blinds but gave his rail something to cheer about when he quickly doubled up twice against Juncker. The second one included spiking a straight on the river to put a dent in Junckers advantage. That did not last long, as the chip leader found a set in the window to win a flip against Omar Del Pino, sending the Spaniard out in fourth place. After tournament officials moved the final three to the side room at Le Palais des Congres, Junckers next victim was indeed Gordo. Parker Talbot That left the Dane with more than a 6:1 chip lead over Talbot as heads-up play began. Despite a quick double with Big Slick, the Canadian streamer known as "Tonkaaaap" ran his ace into a superior one and missed the river to end his run. Talbot earned 334,180 for the second-place finish, falling just shy of the title. That glory was left for Juncker, who took down his one and only event here in Paris as he's due to fly home tomorrow. Quite a profitable trip, allowing him to easily afford the extra weight in his luggage due to a shiny new FPS trophy. Henrik Juncker This event may have concluded, but the PokerNews live coverage continues from Paris. Be sure to check out our tournament hub for live action from the EPT Main Event. Sharelines Here's how Henrik Juncker became the 2,200 FPS High Roller champion in Paris. The charging document for Alexander Smirnov blows the Biden impeachment investigation to pieces and shows that Russian spies duped Reps. James Comer and Jim Jordan. According to the document: While Smirnov has no ties to the community in Las Vegas, what he does have is extensive foreign ties, including, most troublingly and by his own account, contact with foreign intelligence services, including Russian intelligence agencies, and has had such contacts recently. Smirnov could use these contacts to resettle outside the United States. As noted, law enforcement knows about Smirnovs contact with officials affiliated with Russian intelligence because Smirnov himself reported on a number of those contacts to his FBI Handler. As described below, these contacts are extensive and extremely recent, and Smirnov had the intention of meeting with one of these officials on his upcoming planned overseas travel. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. Of particular note, Smirnov has reported numerous contacts with Russian Official 1, who has been described by Smirnov in a number of ways, including as the son of a former high-ranking Russian government official, someone who purportedly controls two groups of individuals tasked with carrying out assassination efforts in a third-party country, a Russian representative to another country, and as someone with ties to a particular Russian intelligence service. This latter fact was reported by Smirnov in October, 2023. The source of the main allegation that has been driving the Biden impeachment investigation was Russia. The FBI has confirmed that the allegation has no basis in fact, which means that the Biden impeachment investigation has no basis in fact. At best, James Comer and Jim Jordan are fools who were told what they wanted to believe by the Russians. At worst, Comer and Jordan willingly helped Putin smear the President Of The United States with a lie to attack American democracy from within. Either way, the Biden impeachment investigation needs to be shut down today because every moment that it lingers on is another victory for Putin. 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. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, February 21. Kyrgyzstan's imports of oil products from Russia in 2023 declined compared to 2022, Trend reports. Data from Kyrgyzstans State Statistical Committee reveals that Kyrgyzstan imported 504,573 tons of oil products from Russia in 2023, which is an 18-percent decrease from 614,362 tons in 2022. The value of these imports amounted to $370.453 million, declining by 21 percent compared to the preceding year ($468.243 million). During the reporting period, Russia remained the primary source from which Kyrgyzstan imported oil products. Kazakhstan secured the second position with 80,341 tons valued at $38.512 million, while Uzbekistan ranked third with 9,667 tons valued at $6.341 million. Kyrgyzstan imported 612,007 tons of oil products in 2023, which is 9 percent less than in 2022 (671,733 tons). The value of the imports amounted to $456.864 million. The figure declined by 13 percent compared to 2022 ($525.276 million). Meanwhile, the trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and Russia totaled $2.930 billion in 2023, reflecting a decrease of 15.7 percent compared to 2022. Kyrgyzstan's exports to Russia amounted to $747.839 million, marking a 30 percent decrease from 2022. Imports from Russia to Kyrgyzstan totaled $2.182 billion, showing a 9 percent decline compared to the preceding year. Overall, Kyrgyzstan's foreign trade turnover reached $15.66 billion in 2023, indicating a 29.9 percent increase compared to 2022. The country's exports totaled $3.308 billion, representing a 46.8 percent year-on-year increase. Imports to Kyrgyzstan amounted to $12.352 billion, reflecting a 26 percent increase compared to 2022. During a Fox News town hall with Laura Ingraham, Trump was tossed a softball about Navalny, and he disastrously self-destructed. What Did Trump Say About Navalny During The Fox News Town Hall? Laura Ingraham asked Trump, I want to give you the chance to expand on that because obviously your opponents have used that to say again, pro Putin dont care about human rights or freedom, the freedom movement. And so what does that mean? When you said it made you more aware of your circumstances? Trump answered, Navalny is a very sad situation and hes very brave. He was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away and frankly, probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in because people thought that could happen and it did happen. And its a horrible thing, but its happening in our country too. We are turning into a communist country in many ways. And if you look at it, Im the leading candidate. I get indicted. I never heard of being indicted before. I was gonna, I got indicted four times I eight or nine trials. All because of the fact that Im, and you know, this all because of the fact that Im in politics, they indicted me on things that are so ridiculous of Fani in Atlanta or Ingraham tried again, Do you, do you see yourself as a potential political prisoner in the United States? Because thats their goal is to put you in jail behind bars for the rest of your life. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. Trump then went into full babble, If I was losing in the polls, they wouldnt even be talking about me and I wouldnt have had any legal feesf I were out, I think, although they hate me so much. I, I think if I got out, theyd still, lets pursue this guy. We cant stand this guy. Look, I won an election. That wasnt supposed to be winnable. I then did much better. The second time. I wont get into it, because of Fox. But I want, I did a much better job the second time. We got millions and millions of more the second time. And now were doing much better than we did the second time and the first time almost put together. Ingraham was really tried to get Trump to say that he is a political prisoner, Are you a, are you a potential political prisoner, sir? Trump continued with his incoherent babble, Well, I think because of the fact that Im doing so well that Im beating Biden at a level that theyve never seen before. This is not supposed to happen. You know, its much easier for a Democrat to run much easier than. Ingraham cut him off, Were gonna take a quick break. Video: Trump, when asked about Navalny during Fox News town hall, said, Its happening in our country. We are turning into a communist country in many ways. If you look at it, Im the leading candidate. pic.twitter.com/kdDAPO1LtA PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) February 21, 2024 Trump Thinks His New York Fine Is Like Navalny When Ingraham asked Trump how he was going to pay the $355 million he owes New York, Trump said, Its a form of Navalny. Video: Ingraham: How are you going to pay for your court fines? Trump: It is a form of Navalny pic.twitter.com/5TRJOCYaOB Biden-Harris HQ (@BidenHQ) February 21, 2024 How Did Trump Perform At The New York Town Hall? Trump was a disaster at the Fox News town hall. In 2016, Trump was very disciplined. He hammered his lies and talking points over and over again. It was build the wall, lock her up, Hillarys emails, make America great again, over and over and over again. Trumps speeches in 2016 at his rallies were between 30-45 minutes. The wheels had already fallen off by 2020 when Trump would speak for hours, go off on unrelated tangents and bore many of his supporters to the point where they would leave early. In 2024, Trump struggles to make a coherent point. Almost all of his interviews and appearances involve conservative media or a friendly Kaitlin Collins or Kristen Welker. Even with Laura Ingraham trying to guide him through the town hall, Trump couldnt keep it together and imploded. Once voters who arent paying attention to the election yet, get a dose of this Trump, Republicans could be in big trouble. but that doesnt mean that he actually has the shoes. 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. Former Rep. George Santos is suing Jimmy Kimmel for fraud over some Cameo videos and Kimmel was ready with a response. Kimmel said: We had a three-day weekend. It was an eventful weekend. Did anyone else get sued by George Santos this weekend? I am currently embroiled in what may be the most preposterous lawsuit of all time. George Santos, a man Republicans kicked out of Congress for being a fraud, is suing me for fraud. This is the lawsuit. James C. Kimmel aka Jimmy Kimmel thats my secret pseudonym. Why didnt they list his pseudonyms, too? George Santos aka Anthony Devolder aka Kitara Ravache? George has sued me, the show, and Disney Corporation. After he was removed from the House, George signed with Cameo to make some money. We wrote some absolutely ridiculous messages for him to read. We gave them the credit card number, and sure enough, he recorded the messages and sent them back to us. And now hes suing. He says we Deceived him under the guise of fandom, soliciting personalized videos only to then broadcast these on national television. And if theres one thing George Santos will not stand for, its using a fake name under false pretenses. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. I mean and by the way, the idea that he believed these messages, which get posted on the Cameo site anyway, were from real fans? One of them was about a guy named Gary. Who ate six pounds of loose ground beef in under 30 minutes. Another one was a message cot congratulating My mom Brenda on the successful cloning of her beloved dog, Adolph. He says he thought these were real messages. He claims he was duped. George is being represented by the prestigious law firm of pot, kettle, and black. Hes seeking $750,000 in damages, plus other damages to be determined in court. And that is why Im setting up a gofundme. A target of $355 million, so we can save this country. [ Laughter ] This is so good. This is like getting sued for paternity by Nick Cannon. Video: The Santos lawsuit is absurd. Cameo pranks are all over the place. They turn up in political ads, YouTube channels, and on TV. Kimmel didnt do anything different than John Fetterman did in the Pennsylvania Senate race in 2022. Santos is clearly looking to get paid, as his lawsuit seems to be a media version of the classic slip-and-fall scam. The Santos lawsuit should be laughed out of court, as the former congressman is looking for a payday to offset all of the criminal charges that he is facing. but that doesnt mean that he actually has the shoes. 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. Deputy Press Secretary and Senior Communications Adviser Andrew Bates read House Republicans the riot act for being on their 6th day of vacation while harming national security, saying the damage from their two-week vacation mounts by the day. Yesterday, President Bidens National Security Advisor warned that aid to Ukraine is necessary to protect our national security. He also listed off the ways this aid actually helps the United States in both jobs and renewing our own weapon stockpiles, but apparently that isnt good enough for Speaker Johnson, even after his own members got busted for laundering Kremlin disinformation about President Biden . Bates offered up a reading list for Speaker Johnsons 6th day of vacationing while harming American national security, writing in a statement sent to PoliticusUSA, The damage House Republicans are actively causing to American national security mounts every day that they insist on continuing their two-week vacation. Before we get to the next part, its worth remembering that in 2018, a group of Russian nationals donated to Mike Johnsons campaign by funneling money through a Texas-based company called American Ethane. To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. Even though the Senate passed critically-needed national security priorities with overwhelmingly bipartisan support and even though members of Speaker Johnsons own conference have been explicit that the same legislation would also pass the House Speaker Johnson has shown no signs of canceling Republicans vacation as he puts his own internal politics above the safety of the American people, Bates noted. If the urgency is sounding alarmist, we should recall that just days ago it was revealed that Russia is developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon whose detonation could disrupt everything from military communications to phone-based ride services, a source told Reuters. The source said it was his understanding the system would involve a nuclear explosive device placed into orbit. Meanwhile, Johnson has the House on a two-week vacation because working for their taxpayer handouts is apparently not on order. Speaker Johnson is undermining Ukraines defenses as innocent civilians are murdered by Putin and his Iranian allies, endangering NATO countries the United State is obligated to defend, threatening industrial jobs across our country, setting America back in the Indo-Pacific, and denying military assistance to Israel as well as humanitarian assistance to innocent Palestinians, Bates continued. Then Bates hammered on Johnson for killing the border deal that Johnson said needed to be attached to the aid bill, so Democrats attached it, and then Johnson ran away again, with no reasonable explanation. Whats more, Speaker Johnson also killed the toughest, strongest border security legislation in decades, siding with fentanyl-traffickers over the Border Patrol Union as soon as Donald Trump sounded alarms that the bipartisan deal would hurt his political interests by helping families. If House Republicans are committed to their vacation the least they can do is read about the harm they are causing as they undermine American national security, Bates finished, before listing off the suggested reading. House Republicans failure to act contributed to Ukraine need to retreat from the town of Avdiivka, and Russias most significant battlefield gains in 9 months, Bates wrote, above a Fox article about just that. Fox News, The withdrawal, announced as Ukraine faces acute shortages of ammunition with U.S. military aid delayed for months in Congress, aimed to save troops from being fully surrounded by Russian forces after months of fierce fighting, Kyiv said. House Republicans are also threatening manufacturing jobs in Americas heartland, Bates wrote above an AP article, As President Joe Biden pushes House Republicans to pass needed aid, he wants voters to understand that nearly two-thirds or nearly $40 billion of the money for Ukraine would actually go to U.S. factories spread out across the country including plants in Lima, Ohio and Scranton, Pennsylvania as well as Mesquite. Then Bates goes in for Republicans supposed care for children, citing the BBC, While House Republicans purport to care about cracking down on the abuse of children, they are turning a blind eye as Russia has kidnapped thousands of Ukrainian children. Bates goes softly on Johnsons repeated betrayals of deals/offers he made with Democrats on national security, citing a Washington Post article, Claiming he supports Ukraine and border security but constantly finding excuses to accomplish the opposite, Speaker Johnson is cementing a legacy of false promises and unreliability. Bates points out an Axios piece about Republicans knowing that the special election in New York shows that Americans are furious, The decisive results of New Yorks special election last week, in which House Republicans blocking of bipartisan border security legislation was a top issue, shows the American people are infuriated. Bates ended this public scolding with an ask that the Speaker actually, finally, maybe read the bill, Finally, Speaker Johnson should *actually* read the bipartisan border security legislation that is endorsed by the Border Patrol Union and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce because it would make America safer and secure our border. There are no lies detected in Bates comments. If anything, he is being understated while trying to prod these lawmakers into doing the bare minimum of their jobs that you pay them to do. U.S. national security is literally being undermined and even endangered by the Republican-led House. That they feel emboldened to continue doing so in a way that favors Putin even after being caught laundering Kremlin disinformation through the U.S. Congress says a lot about their confidence that the media wont hold them accountable. It feels like Jeffrey Wright is in everything these days. His versatility has taken him from character acting in the likes of The French Dispatch and Westworld to his recent Oscar-nominated turn in the dark comedy American Fiction. Whats American Fiction about? Summary of this Best Picture-nominated feature: In American Fiction, Jeffrey Wright plays a jaded writer who finally finds success by jokingly writing a Black book aka a book that caters to the white liberal imagintion. Wrights character, Thelonious Ellison or Monk wrestles with the professional consequences of his newfound success while grappling with grief and shifting personal dynamics. When Jeffrey Wright accepted the Montecito Award at the 39th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Thursday, February 15th, he said of American Fiction: For me, the heart is the family. Thats what drew me in. Thats what plucked all of my emotional and psychological strings. Its a family thats recognizable, Wright continued. Its a family thats as crazy as everyone's family is. Popdust caught up with Jeffrey Wright on the Red Carpet of the Santa Barbara Film Festival to chat about creating a character like Monk alongside such a stellar cast: POPDUST: How do you play such an introspective character while also playing alongside such a powerful cast: We do it together. If I weren't part of an ensemble, it'd be a one-man show. That'd be a very different film. So it's just the nature of the work. Yeah, we do this stuff together, POPDUST: How do you build that chemistry? You build it with your fellow actors. What Cord Jefferson did with this film was put together a brilliant cast of actors who wanted to be a part of this story who read the script and said, Yes, this is important. This is cool. This is funny. And I want to be there. And so we all came together with equal passion for this project. And that made it so much easier because we got on set, and we knew what to do. And we just went about doing it. POPDUST: Whats next for you? I gotta go back to work next month. I can't say exactly what just yet, but as soon as I sign the details, you will be the first to know. The American Fiction cast is a feat. A character cant easily hide on screen, from the audience or himself. But the heroic work of the ensemble cast, their chemistry, and the emotional depth they bring to their characters make for performances worthy of a Best Picture Oscar nom. To actualize this on screen, its necessary for the relationships between the characters to feel lived in. I hate my family, Monk says at the beginning. But as the story slowly unspools, we realize the history that belies such oversimplification. Alongside Sterling K. Brown, Tracee Ellis Ross plays his sister in one of her best performances yet. Johnny Ortiz plays his agent. Issa Rae plays novelist Sintara Golden. Seth Brody plays a Hollywood film director. All bouncing off Wrights Monk. Is American Fiction worth watching? Everyone should see American Fiction. It threads the needle between funny and poignant without moralizing. In one scene, Monks romantic interest describes him as funny like a three-legged dog. The movies like this too. While the family relationships that anchor this outrageous tale provide some chuckle-worthy quips, this satires humor is often dark and ironic. Its like Tar, but racial turmoil is to Monk what gender trouble is to Tar. Both masterful performances of problematic characters played by thespians at the peak of their powers. The stupider I act, the richer I get, Monk remarks in this comedy of errors. Is American Fiction a woke movie? This is not some finger-wagging woke film (Green Book, Im looking at you). In fact, Green Book has just the sort of racial narrative the movie makes fun of. If it were a palatable tale of Black and white, good and evil, it would be a shoo-in for the Best Picture Oscar. Instead, American Fiction is a complex portrait of a complicated character struggling to understand his relationship to his own Blackness. Through this journey making many missteps along the way Monk may not research any conclusions. But he is forced out of the safe cocoon of his superiority complex. American Fiction is based on the novel Erasure by Percival Everett. And given the rich tapestry of messy, flawed characters, its the kind of book that feels like a novel. Though the film was under the two-hour mark (Oppenheimer, take notes), I found myself wanting more. I wanted to see our reluctant hero continue to confront his own limitations. I wanted more time with his family. Above all, every time Sterling K Brown, playing Monks brother, was on the screen, I wanted more. Fraught, fledgling fraternity: Brotherhood buoys the films emotional core For the unrestrained brilliance of his performance as Clifford Ellison, Sterling K. Brown received an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Together Wright and Brown played brothers separated by circumstance and childhood wounds. Honestly, Id have watched this film without all the melodrama if it were just about their relationship. At moments I wondered: does this film focus on the wrong brother? One of the central tensions, embodied by the fraternal duo, is the tension between wanting to hide and wanting to be seen. Monks determined to let everyone know hes suffering, and hide his success as well as his most redeemable parts, his vulnerabilities out of shame. His brother Cliff Monks foil and his mirror tries to bury his suffering as he assumes a new life of honesty. Unceremoniously forced from the closet, Cliff mourns his former life while attempting to accept his sexuality in real-time while his family does the same. Meanwhile, Wrights character is being forced out of isolation. People want to love you, Cliff tells Monk. In turn, when their mothers Alzheimer's causes her to mistake Monk for Cliff, she says: Geniuses are lonely because they cant connect with the rest of us. Youre a genius son youve always been so hard on yourself. Both are searching for connection, too trapped in their interiority to see it in each other. This tension between invisibility and hypervisibility as it plays out both in internal and external conflicts takes cues from the tradition of African American literature. W.E.B. Du Bois, writing about double consciousness, wrote about the difference between Black interiority and Black exteriority. Black American authors have been writing about this phenomenon ever since. Everetts take on it is an examination of how internalized racial trauma coalescing in a cocktail of our other epistemic traumas and lived experiences ruptures our relationships. American Fiction is in theatres now. Watch the trailer here: STATEMENT OF SENATOR JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA ON SOLDIERS KILLED IN OPERATION VS MAUTE TERRORISTS IN MUNAI, LANAO DEL NORTE I commiserate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines on the loss of six valiant men who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation cost them dearly and we honor their memory with utmost respect and gratitude. In this somber moment, I extend our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen heroes. Let us remember their names, faces, and the unwavering dedication they exhibited in the face of danger. But grief alone cannot suffice. We must channel our sorrow into resolute action. I laud our Armed Forces for being relentless in pursuing the remaining members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group who were responsible for the MSU Marawi blast in December last year. They must be held responsible for their heinous acts. I stand firmly behind our AFP in hunting down these remnants of evil, ensuring that they face the full force of the law. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 21. Uzbekistan will launch Ipak Yuli free economic zone (FEZ) in Andijan district, Trend reports. According to a decree by Uzbekistan's president Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the FEZ will be established on 218.18 hectares of land. Ipak Yuli will focus on attracting local and foreign investments, as well as producing goods in demand abroad and import-substituting products. The FEZ is expected to attract foreign investments worth $3 billion by the end of next year. The annual output of industrial products is projected at more than 20.1 trillion soums ($1.6 billion). The FEZ is also tasked to supply goods abroad for $580.7 million a year. It is expected that the state budget will be replenished by 1.2 trillion soums ($97.2 million) annually due to tax revenues of Ipak Yuli. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will increase the territory of Namangan FEZ by 70 hectares. For this purpose, Uzbekistan will join the vacant land plots in Turakurgan district. A resolution of the President of Uzbekistan, "On measures to expand the territory of the Namangan free economic zone," has been adopted on this matter. Trump also denied this report. "They don't do it for kicks and giggles because it's about something bigger than themselves," Haley said. "They do it because they know freedom isn't free. And if he doesn't understand that, then he doesn't understand America." The Palmetto Terrace in the North Augusta Municipal Building was filled Wednesday afternoon to hear Haley, who was born and grew up less than 70 miles away. John and Claudia Creaven drove from Aiken to hear Haley. "I liked Nikki when she was the governor," John said. "I liked her policies and how she managed. I want to hear more about what she would do as president." John said he voted for Trump three times but didn't know if Trump was the right person to lead the country. John said he plans to vote for Haley. He said she knows what's wrong with the country and has ideas for fixing the problems. John added Haley could be the candidate to unify the fractious Republican Party. Haley is impressive, Deborah Brooks of North Augusta said. She said Haley was qualified and that she was tired of chaos from Trump. "She's very levelheaded, and I like that," Brooks said. Eddie, a military veteran and resident of Thompson, Georgia, who refused to provide his last name, said he planned to vote for Haley in the Peach State's March 12 primary. "I'm just over here to hear what she has to say," Eddie said. "I think it's time for a woman president." Eddie said he felt a woman president would do better than some male candidates. He added women knew how to operate under stress and can manage a lot of details at once. "We've never had one before and I think that Nikki Haley is the one to have," Eddie said. Eddie added he didn't want to see Trump get reelected. "And I'm Republican all the way," he continued. Eddie said the office of president went to Trump's head, and he became arrogant. "His policies were good. His future policies may be good," Eddie continued. "He told the Republican members of Congress not to pass the border bill because he wanted to run on the border policy. He put himself in front of the good of the country." Scottie Scheffler has become the first player in the 50 years of The Players Championship to win back-to-back. This was the hardest. Not only was he dealing with neck pain all week, he started the final round five shots behind. Scheffler closed with a 64. That matches the lowest final round by a winner. He also tied a Players Championship record with a five-shot comeback. U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark, British Open champion Brian Harman and Xander Schauffele all finished one shot behind. All of them had their chances over the final three holes to force a playoff. Read moreScheffler goes back-to-back in Players Championship in Sunday thriller at Sawgrass Opening day will soon arrive for the Parker's Kitchen being constructed west of downtown Aiken and the convenience store and gas station will have two larger signs than allowed by the city's zoning ordinance. The Aiken City Council voted 6-1 last week to approve the second and final reading of an ordinance granting a request from Parker's Kitchen for larger-than-allowed signs. The Parker's Kitchen is being constructed on the former Dick Smith property located on the northwest side of the intersection of Richland Avenue, Jefferson Davis Highway, Robert M. Bell Parkway and Hitchcock Parkway. One of the two signs will be located along the westbound side of the Jefferson Davis Highway west of the intersection. The city zones the Parker's Kitchen property, located at 140 Jefferson Davis Highway, Planned Commercial. The city's zoning ordinance does not specify sign size for Planned Commercial zoning. However, the zoning ordinance recommends the use of a similar zoning designation to determine sign size. The city's Planning Department used the General Business zoning designation to determine that this sign could be 75 square feet in size and 18 feet tall. Drayton Parker Companies, the parent company of Parker's Kitchen, requested a waiver allowing the sign to be 198 square feet in size including a 9-by-2-foot base and for the sign to be 22 feet tall. This sign would be 164 percent bigger than permitted and 4 feet taller than permitted. The other sign will be located on the south side of Robert M. Bell Parkway north of the intersection. The city's Planning Department used the General Business zoning designation to determine this sign could be 50 square feet in size and 11 feet tall. Drayton Parker Companies requested a waiver allowing this sign to be 85.7 square feet in size including a 5-by-2-foot base. Including the base the sign would be 15 feet, 7 inches tall. This sign would be 49.4 percent bigger than permitted and 4 feet higher than permitted. The Berkeley County Library System (BCLS) is hosting a Spotlight on Local Women of Note from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, March 22, at Moncks Corner Library, 1003 Highway 52 in Moncks Corner. Read moreBCLS hosting Spotlight on Local Women of Note Boeing Co.'s North Charleston operation is back in sales mode with nearly 50 orders for 787-9 jets from the growing Southeast Asia travel market. After a January lull that saw zero net orders for new Dreamliners, Thai Airways announced Feb. 20 plans to double its Boeing widebody stable with an order for 45 South Carolina-built aircraft. The same day at the Singapore Air Show, Royal Brunei Airlines ordered four more Dreamliners, for a total of nine, as it renews its fleet amid growing travel demand. The deals underscore Boeings 2023 commercial outlook forecast that demand for widebodies like the 777 and the newer 787 will increase threefold in Southeast Asia over the next 20 years. "This order will support Thai Airways' ability to meet demand, foster tourism and trade and create further opportunities for this carrier, Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, said in a statement. In addition to the jet's "cutting-edge technology," according to CEO Chai Eamsiri, part of Thai Airlines draw to the 787-9 Dreamliners is its lower-emission GEnx engine. The engines are expected to reduce fuel use by 25 percent compared to the airlines current fleet, a key factor in Thailands goal for the country to be carbon neutral by 2050, Eamsiri said in a statement. The 49 orders are one more step in the growing demand for 787-9 Dreamliners, which Boeing has produced exclusively at its North Charleston plant since early 2021. The manufacturer reported closing out 2023 with a little over 300 787 orders including 150 from United Airlines, one of the largest operators of the aircraft. As of Feb. 13, Boeings total production backlog for commercial planes stands at 5,559 including 724 Dreamliners. Last year, the company met its goal of producing between 70 and 80 787s by making 73. Helping to get there, Boeing South Carolina bumped up production to five jets a month from three. Output at the North Charleston factory is expected to double to 10 per month by 2025 or 2026, the company has publicly stated. Less than a month after announcing a new route between Los Angeles and Charleston, Breeze Airways is adding more weekly flights between the two destinations. The twice-weekly seasonal route on Monday and Friday launches May 3 and expands to four days a week June 12 with the addition of Wednesday and Saturday service. Elliott Summey, executive director and CEO of Charleston International, said it's "rare for an airline to announce an expansion before the start of their service" but it's a positive indicator of growth for the area and passengers. Los Angeles International, or LAX, is often touted by tourism officials as a high-profile gateway market to connect Charleston to national and international visitors. Tom Doxey, Breeze's president, said L.A. and Charleston are two major markets for the airline. Doxey said there has been enough interest and bookings for the twice-weekly route to add the new flights. Charleston has been without a nonstop Los Angeles connection since JetBlue discontinued its daily service last October. Flights between CHS and LAX start at $119 each way, according to the airline's website. Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston and board chair of the Charleston County Aviation Authority, said there has been "considerable demand for travel between our two destinations for some time." Breeze recently launched a twice-weekly flight between the Lowcountry and Stewart International Airport near Newburgh, N.Y. It also started serving the Grand Strand with flights to Providence, R.I., with upcoming routes to Tampa and Charleston, W.Va. COLUMBIA Did rumors in a rural South Carolina town lead a man to kill a transgender woman, fearing their secret relationship would be exposed? Or did rumors land the wrong man behind bars and now on trial for a federal hate crime? Faced with questions like these, jurors in the trial for the killing of 24-year-old Dime Doe will have to determine if Daqua Lameek Ritter not only killed Doe, but did so because she was transgender. The trial began in U.S. District Court in Columbia on Feb. 20 and is the first federal trial of that nature a hate crime resulting in death due to gender identity since the passing of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009. Federal prosecutors claim Ritter was in a sexual relationship with Doe, which he kept secret from both his girlfriend and those in the tightknit community in Allendale. When rumors spread around town and his girlfriend found text messages, Ritter became enraged and killed Doe out of anger, Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Neale Garner said during opening statements. But the defense attorneys, Lindsey Vann and Joshua Snow Kendrick, claimed that in the small community in Allendale, gossip from the "rumor mill" spreads "like wildfire." Within hours of Doe's death, rumors spread, with fingers pointing at Ritter, the defense said. During opening statements, Vann told jurors they'll hear testimony from those who said Ritter is connected to the crime. She said those claims aren't credible since their stories have changed numerous times when talking to law enforcement. The first witnesses called to the stand were state and county officers. Aug. 4, 2019, was a rainy day. Around 3 p.m., Doe was pulled over for speeding. The deputy wore a body camera, and the footage was played in court. The deputy who pulled her over said he recognized her. She was known as "Ernie Bernie," a nickname spun from her birth name, Ernest. The passenger in Doe's car was reclined. From the body camera footage, all that can be seen of the man sitting next to Doe were his pants and hands. But prosecutors and investigators claim a tattoo on his wrist gave away Ritter's identity. Brooks Reitz and his partners came close to opening a fourth restaurant in Charleston, but the deal never came to fruition. The owners of Leons Oyster Shop, Little Jacks Tavern and Melfis are still looking for opportunities locally, but in February, they turned their attention to another Southern city one with many similarities to Charleston. Reitz and New Orleans-based partners Tim Mink and Andrew Bell will open The Bell at 3125 Esplanade Ave. in New Orleans this summer. The new establishment will be a neighborhood restaurant with an English accent, Reitz told The Post and Courier. We have talked about doing something in New Orleans for a long time because Tim moved there six years ago, Reitz said, adding that the deal to open in New Orleans Bayou St. John neighborhood all came together fairly quickly. Two longtime Charleston-based employees have an ownership stake in the new restaurant, which will specialize in tavern fare informed by the cuisine and ingredients of the Crescent City. The Bell takes its inspiration from England, where Reitz and his wife Erin, owner of E.M. Reitz, got engaged, married and honeymooned. A James Beard Award gives winners instant notoriety, bringing with it a business boom to chefs and restaurants who take home a medallion. In January, six Charleston semifinalists moved one step closer to that career-altering win. To recap, Kimball Brienza and Steve Palmer were recognized in the Outstanding Restaurateur category for their work at King Street sushi spot O-Ku, while Edmunds Oast which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in February was listed among the countrys top Outstanding Bars. Jacques Larson of The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivans Island and James London of Chubby Fish downtown earned spots in the Best Chef: Southeast category, an award previously won by Charleston chefs Mike Lata, Jason Stanhope and Rodney Scott. Remy Funfrock of La Patisserie inside Hotel Bennett earned a spot in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category, and Nikko Cagalanan of Kultura was nominated for top Emerging Chef. With so much buzz surrounding these chefs, restaurateurs and their six establishments, I decided to revisit each of them in February. Heres a look inside. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 21. Uzbekistan and Yandex.Go (a Russian transportation service) discussed the matters of development and regulation of the passenger transportation market, Trend reports. The discussion took place at a meeting between Uzbek Minister of Transport Ilkhom Mahkamov with representatives of the delegation headed by General Director for e-commerce and logistics services of Yandex.Go group of companies Daniil Shuleyko on February 20. According to the Ministry of Transport, in order to increase the efficiency of the street and road network use, the parties exchanged views on the use of analytical data of Yandex maps, the development of taxi fleets owning vehicles. Yandex Go has been operating in Uzbekistan since April 2018. The service is available in Tashkent and nine other cities of the country. According to the Tax Committee of Uzbekistan, more than 80,000 drivers were connected to the service in the country in 2023. Furthermore, Yandex Go has spent $100,000 in the creation of an educational environment for kids in order to increase access to STEM education and promote the development of the IT industry in Uzbekistan. CLEMSON Without fail, developers looking to build multifamily housing in Clemson meet the same feedback from residents: theres already enough student housing. The first-floor retail spaces take a long time to fill, and when they do, theyre businesses geared toward college students rather than the community at-large. It brings concentrated traffic, and the buildings are, to some, monstrosities and eyesores. Clemson University aims to grow its undergraduate population by 2 percent annually until it reaches 25,000 students, though it has no immediate plans for adding housing on campus. In its goal to double the amount of research by 2030, its graduate population must grow. With one downtown project approved, another moving through the public feedback process and a third housing complex proposed on Highway 93, Clemson remains a hot spot for developers, despite residents feelings. Is there room for more students on Clemson's campus? Clemson University had 28,747 students enrolled in fall 2023, 22,875 of which were undergrads. Nearly 5,000 of those were freshmen, largely required to live on campus. The universitys housing capacity is 7,000 beds, and several nearby apartment complexes offer walkable options around the schools perimeter. In its 2017 long-range framework plan, the university noted a shortage of 800 beds by 2027 with its own growth predictions. Options include renovating older low-rise dorms, transforming underutilized space near Perimeter Road, integrating housing into a new student union or more for the long term redeveloping older apartments and adding on to its newest housing complex. Renovations on three high-rise dorms Byrnes, Leer and Manning halls began in June 2023 and upgrades 50-year-old buildings that house 1,400 students to the tune of $155 million over four years. Renovations should be complete in the fall of 2027 and may overlap with a proposed and not-yet-funded additional housing unit at Douthit Hills, according to Kathy Hobgood, the university's auxiliary enterprises associate vice president. GREENVILLE Food truck operations in Greenville County will soon face tighter rules. Starting March 1, all mobile food units food trucks, trailers and pushcarts will be subject to fire safety inspections. Chris Nalley, with Greenville County Code Enforcement, said the rollout will be gradual, with inspections conducted as fire marshals identify mobile food units. Sign up for updates! Get the latest Greenville news from The Post and Courier in your inbox. Email Sign Up! Trucks that pass will receive a sticker to display on the vehicle. Those that fail will be prohibited from doing business in the county until they make the necessary updates. Inspections will cover a range of issues, including fire suppression systems, oil storage and fuel safety. Nalley told the Greenville County Planning and Development Committee earlier this month that in January, local fire marshals inspected a local food truck and trailer as part of a training program. Both failed, he said. Food trucks are already subject to DHEC food safety inspections, according to Susan Best, program manager over the agency's food and lead risk assessment team. There were 285 DHEC permitted mobile food units operating in the county as of Jan. 29, and the agency conducted 458 food truck and pushcart inspections last year. Municipalities in the county including Greenville, Mauldin and Greer already have food truck ordinances in place. And in 2020, South Carolina adopted statewide fire safety regulations in line with the International Fire Code. But those rules have not been enforced in unincorporated Greenville County until now. When the city of Greenville began enforcing those same rules in 2020, it contributed to a sharp decline in the number of food trucks operating within its limits. Many food truck operators said they couldn't afford to make the necessary updates to their mobile kitchens. Installation of the required fire suppression systems, for instance, can cost around $3,500, a tall order for small businesses operating on thin margins. Summerville, SC (29483) Today Considerable clouds this morning. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. High 69F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mainly clear skies. Low 38F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. The 34th Annual SC BBQ Shag Festival kicks off on Thursday, March 21, at the recreation park and ball fields in Hemingway. This year the festival runs from March 21-24. The four-day event features music, vendors, BBQ and fun for the whole family. First held in 1987, the event has grown to at Read moreSC BBQ Shag Festival kicks off March 21 Does it seem to you that a lot of the controversies in education (homework, grading, punishment, curricula) exist because people arent considering things from the students point of view and what they might need? Read more'Luxury beliefs' leaving some kids in the dark CAROLINA FOREST Conway Medical Center has abandoned plans to build a hospital near an Horry County nature preserve and intends to sell its land to the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, county officials said. This matter has never been about whether it should be conserved or developed, said County Councilman Dennis DiSabato, whose district is anchored in Carolina Forest. Its always been about if it was going to be developed, how was it going to be developed," he added. "I would prefer it not be developed at all, be conserved. Im tickled to death that we seem to have found ourselves in a position where its going to be conserved altogether. County Council postponed a scheduled vote on a development agreement and rezoning for the hospital, which was planned for a nearly 360-acre site on International Drive, after CMC on Feb. 20 sent a letter outlining its plans. CMC President Brian Argo asked county leaders to defer their vote on the rezoning for six months. In exchange for the rezoning vote deferral, CMC will work with the county and state, "and any affiliated entity to reach agreeable terms regarding the sale," Argo wrote. He added that CMC would agree not to sell the property to any entity other than DNR during that time. County officials said CMC is looking at another location for its hospital. After the meeting, a CMC spokeswoman declined to comment on the providers plans. DNR has publicly expressed interest in buying the land and the agency wants the greenspace preserved, spokesman Stephen Fastenau confirmed. DNR is interested in conserving the property in order to "protect the interests of natural resource management of fire-dependent ecosystems at the adjacent Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve, Fastenau wrote in a prepared statement. CMC announced plans to build a Carolina Forest hospital in 2020, saying the $160 million, 50-bed facility would serve the growing suburban community of more than 38,000. When I was in third grade, my teacher had a vegetable tasting day for us. We each brought in a vegetable from home and shared it with our classmates. I remember coming home, excited, and announcing to my mother that I had fallen in love with rutabaga. After a startled moment or two, she sm Read moreStevens: For the love of rutabaga and our children Happy Sunshine Week indeed. As we hope youve noticed, our newsroom is spending the week recounting successes its had using South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act to illumine your understanding of what your government is doing on your behalf, in your name and with your tax dollars. Read moreEditorial: SC judges support sunshine whenever they get a chance. They need more chances. U.S. Sen. Tim Scott urged Nikki Haley to quit the Republican presidential race, saying he senses "desperation" coming from Haley's campaign. In a Feb. 19 interview with Kayleigh McEnany on Fox News, Scott, R-S.C., said Haley had "run the best race she could" but that it was time to call it quits for the good of the party and the nation. "When you feel that type of desperation, that means the race is already over," he said. Scott's comments came hours before Haley spoke in Greenville on Feb. 20, where she pledged to stay in the race no matter the results of this weekend's vote. "Of course, many of the same politicians who now publicly embrace Trump privately dread him," Haley said in vowing to continue. "They know what a disaster hes been and will continue to be for our party. Theyre just too afraid to say it out loud." Scott endorsed Trump ahead of the New Hampshire primary and has become a frequent Trump surrogate, even making a brief cameo in a new Trump ad. "If you can't win your home state, there's no other place to win," Scott said on Fox. "She's down by at least 25-30 points here in South Carolina. The best thing she can do for the nation is drop out the race, endorse Donald Trump and let us start focusing on Joe Biden." Scott wrapped up his comments by noting the Trump campaign was heading to Michigan next regardless of what happens in South Carolina. He added, "We would love to have her as a part of that team." Caitlin Byrd RETURN OF DESANTIS Florida governor and onetime presidential candidate Ron DeSantis was in Columbia late Feb. 20 for an impromptu meeting with a group of South Carolina lawmakers. FORT MILL Jan Martin graduated back when Fort Mill had just one high school. Her son was in the first graduating class of the town's second high school, Nation Ford, which opened in 2007. And there's been a third high school, Catawba Ridge, to open since then in 2019. "It doesn't matter if you've lived here three years or 30 years, everyone realizes the growth we've had in Fort Mill," said Martin, a proponent of the school system's $204 million bond referendum that will be put to voters on March 19. It's why she and others are rallying for the issue, which would pay for a $87 million middle school on Gold Hill Road, create an early childhood development center and allow the Fort Mill School District to buy land for future school expansions. The tax implications of passing the bond would be $20 of property taxes a month on a home valued at $400,000, according to Keep Fort Mill Schools Strong Bond Referendum Committee, the citizens group in which Martin and others are championing the cause. The March bond money would also be spent on renovations and technology needs across existing schools. For the early development center, the Clear Springs Land Company has donated 34 acres for the facility in the Paradise community of Fort Mill, near downtown, school officials said. That's a savings of up to $5 million the district would have spent on the acreage. "It's a place that all our 4-year-olds would be able to go before kindergarten," Martin said. The student body for the school district, which includes all of Fort Mill town limits, Tega Cay and unincorporated nearby areas, has tripled since 2003, from 6,000 pupils to more than 18,000. Three schools have enrollment freezes for the current school year, meaning new families moving in those school zones will have to place their students in another nearby school. SPARTANBURG South Carolina legislators representing this citys rural Green Pond community are warning that Duke Energys plan to run a transmission line through their own piece of countryside could be a precursor to a larger trend. Today, its a Green Pond problem, said Sen. Shane Martin, R-Pauline. Tomorrow, its gonna be in Pauline. Two years from now, its gonna be in Roebuck, or Glenn Springs, or somewhere else. Folks in southwest Spartanburg Countys farming community were caught off guard when Duke first bought land for a substation in June 2022. It wasnt until the power company sent community members a letter three months later that locals knew what was in store. They fear the transmission line will ruin their rural way of life as Duke mows down a 68-foot swath of land through their community, possibly taking land through eminent domain in the process. They did this big public meeting, got everybody ginned up and didnt have any facts, Martin said after a recent legislative delegation meeting. We found out about it three months later, and weve been actively involved trying to bring Duke to transparency. The project Dukes Big Ferguson Transmission Line Project calls for a 100-kilovolt transmission line to run from the Sock Hill substation on S.C. Highway 290 to the new substation at the intersection of S.C. Highway 417 and Green Pond Road, known in the community as Dillard Crossroads. Because the project is under 125 kilovolts, Duke doesn't need permission from the state to build it. Those in Green Pond have argued that S.C. Highway 101 would be a better option for the site, but Duke has pushed back against suggestions that the substation could be effective anywhere else. BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The Institute for Science and International Security has warned about the increasing threat of Iran's nuclear program, Trend reports. The institute says that Iran is already closer to obtaining an atomic bomb. In this sense, Iran has enough enriched uranium to obtain an atomic weapon. The institute adds that uranium is not the only material needed to make an atomic bomb. Of course, making an atomic bomb is a very difficult process. But if Iran increases the enrichment of uranium from 60 percent to 90 percent to make an atomic bomb, it can do this quickly. "Iran can produce enough enriched uranium to make a nuclear weapon within a week and use only a fraction of the 60 percent it has enriched. If Iran thinks of a way to delay the transfer of information to the IAEA inspectors, it will be difficult for the inspectors to determine Iran's high-percentage uranium enrichment in time," the institute said. According to the institute, even if it takes a long time to produce an atomic bomb, Iran can achieve it in just 6 months. This means that Iran has an atomic bomb. On January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018. Since then, the sanctions have impacted Irans oil exports and more than 700 banks, firms, and individuals. The sanctions have led to the freezing of Iranian assets overseas. The Iranian side demands that the US rejoin the JCPOA and that other members comply with the terms of the deal, and in that case it declares that it will abide by all the obligations specified in the deal. In late 2020, the Iranian parliament adopted a strategic plan to counter the sanctions, citing the non-fulfillment of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) signed between Iran and six countries and the imposition of sanctions on Iran. According to the decision of the Iranian parliament, as of February 23, Iran stopped the implementation of additional measures and an additional protocol included in the nuclear deal. As a consequence, the monitoring mechanism of the IAEA was reduced by 2030 percent. On December 26, 2023 some media outlets, quoting the IAEA, reported that Iran has been enriching uranium faster and to a higher degree since late November 2023. They said that Iran has produced about 9 kg of 60 percent-enriched uranium per month, which is enough for making 3 nuclear bombs. The amount of uranium required for one bomb is 42 kg. Irans 60 percent enrichment is still ongoing. --- Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 20:46:28 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 913 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Baker TillyAuthored by Julia Smith and Brianna HardyIn November 2022, the Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) proposed an amendment to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), known as the Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Proposed Rule, to increase the transparency of climate-related information related to government contracting.The proposed regulation would require applicable federal contractors to:disclosegreenhouse gas (GHG) emissionsfor scopes 1, 2 and 3, conduct a climate risk assessment to identify risks in alignment with theTask Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures(TCFD), complete the Carbon Disclosure Project ( CDP ) climate change questionnaire, and commit to developing a science-based target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative ( SBTi ). Who does it affect? The proposed rule divides the federal contractor supplier base registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) into two categories:Significant contractors are defined as contractors that received between $7.5 million and $50 million in federal contract obligations in the prior federal fiscal year. Major contractors are defined as contractors that received more than $50 million in federal contract obligations in the prior federal fiscal year.In FY2021 alone, there were more than 5,500 qualifying contractors. This proposed rule is expected to cover 86% of annual federal spending and about 86% of the federal supply chain's GHG and climate impacts [1].See the requirements for each contractor category:Type of contractor Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions Scope 3 GHG emissions Description of climate risk assessment process and risks identified CDP climate change questionnaire sections that align with TCFD Science-based targets with validation by SBTi Significant contractor ($7.5M - $50M) Major contractor (>$50M) Regulatory timeline While there isn't a clear timeline for approval, the proposed rule states that after one year of publication of the final rule, all federal contractors must have completed their GHG inventory and disclosed scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions. The additional requirements for major contractors would begin two years after publication of the final rule. These additional requirements include reporting on scope 3 GHG emissions, conducting a climate risk assessment to identify risks in alignment with the TCFD, completing the CDP climate change questionnaire and committing to developing a science-based target validated by the SBTi.Comparison to the SEC climate-related disclosures In March 2021, the SEC announced plans for a greater focus on climate-related risks. Theproposed disclosureties to the TCFD and the newly formed International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), a part of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation. The TCFD focuses on governance, strategy, risk management and metrics and targets of climate change disclosures. The details of the disclosure requirements are extensive, and registrants will be required to disclose both qualitative and quantitative climate information, such as disclosures of climate-related risks, GHG emissions, events and plans. The proposed SEC rule demonstrates a great reporting burden for public companies.The reporting burden for federal contractors due to the proposed amendment to the FAR will vary depending on the value of contracts received. See the chart above for specific requirements. In comparison, the SEC climate-related disclosures will require a greater level of reporting but that shouldn't diminish the reporting requirements for FAR.Of note, under the proposed rule, major contractors would be subject to setting and validating a SBTi, a much higher threshold than the SEC rule that does not require any goalsetting. This can be a challenging goal to meet and often requires several years of reporting and analysis to determine business-appropriate pathways to net zero as required by the methodology of SBTi.Key takeawaysThe FAR rule is likely to increase the reporting requirements for most federal contractors. The reporting burden is far greater for major contractors (>$50MM). Science-based target setting and CDP submissions are third party reporting and verification entities that have stringent guidelines to perform well. Organizations often need several years to align processes with the methodologies used by these groups. When the final rule is issued, it will come into effect over 12 to 24 months, depending on the significant or major contractor segment. Being unprepared for this reporting poses a material profit and loss (P&L) risk to the organization. This includes challenges to meet reporting obligations held within current contracts, which can affect scoring for future competitive bids that includeenvironmental, social and governance (ESG)components. Take action The proposed climate-related disclosure and reporting requirements will soon be a reality for contractors of the U.S. federal government. Now is the time to start thinking about how the changing regulatory landscape could affect your organization. Companies can prepare by executing the below steps:Gain an understanding of your reporting landscape and the associated requirements Develop a consistent approach to reporting by leveraging other successful reporting processes Develop an ESG governance structure and risk management processes and procedure document to address climate-related risks Perform a climate-related risk assessment and identify climate-related risks Evaluate the impact of the identified risks on the company's operations, products or services and develop risk responses and mitigation activities Align risk management processes Evaluate targets, goals and progressNavigating the proposed regulation and its potential impact to your organization can be daunting. Lean on us to help you understand and respond to the rapidly changing ESG reporting landscape.For more insights visit, Baker Tilly's government contractors page.[1] Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk, Federal RegisterView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Baker Tilly on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Baker Tilly Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/baker-tilly Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Baker Tilly PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 01:25:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 831 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / bettermoo(d) Food Corporation (CSE:MOOO)(OTCQB:MOOOF)(Frankfurt:0I5A) (WKN:A3D8PP) (the "Company" or "bettermoo(d)"), an emerging leader and innovator in the plant-based food industry, is pleased to announce another significant achievement as Moodrink, the Company's flagship product, has now completely sold out in select Ontario (Canada) stores of the world's leading natural and organic foods retailer (the "Retailer"). This announcement comes on the heels of the Company's recent sales success (as detailed in a press release dated February 16, 2024), which celebrated sell-out and reorder accomplishments within select independent and retail chain stores across Canada.For management, Moodrink's recent achievement with the Retailer signifies the growing consumer interest in bettermoo(d)'s plant-based alternative beverage. It represents the potential for expansion and recognition for the Company in the highly competitive billion-dollar plant-based dairy alternative market, especially following the Company's recent Canada-wide launch of Moodrink (see press release dated February 2, 2024). bettermoo(d) is actively working to restock shelves at the Retailer to ensure that its valued customers continue to have access to Moodrink."We are thrilled by the overwhelming response from consumers at the Retailer's Ontario stores, a clear indication that our hard work and dedication to catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers are yielding fruitful results. This achievement motivates us to further expand our footprint and continue our commitment to making our plant-based products accessible to a broader audience," Nima Bahrami, CEO of bettermoo(d).Moodrink sets itself apart with its nutrient-packed profile, boasting eight grams of plant-based protein per serving and an abundance of fibre for optimal digestion. Moodrink surpasses most 2% milk in calcium content while maintaining lower sugar and sodium levels, zero cholesterol, and reduced fat content, catering perfectly to health-conscious consumers. Furthermore, its unparalleled flavour profile is carefully crafted to evoke the creamy and rich essence of traditional dairy beverages found in the Alps regions of Switzerland, France and Austria, ensuring a distinctive and enjoyable taste experience.ABOUT BETTERMOO(D) FOOD CORPORATIONbettermoo(d) Food Corporation is an innovative plant-based dairy alternative food and beverage company based in Vancouver, British Columbia Canada, launching Moodrink, a nutritious dairy-alternative beverage with a revolutionary flavour. Moodrink includes a blend of herbs and flowers similar to what cows ate, before the time of mass livestock production. Like rich dairy products, Moodrink contains added healthy plant fats and vitamins, so consumers don't miss out. The "Moodrink" is just the beginning of the revolution for the Vancouver based dairy-alternative company, bettermoo(d).Driven by the motto "What A Cow Eats and A Human Needs" bettermoo(d) seeks to produce dairy alternative products that are good for both people and the planet - ensuring that all products are nutritious and sustainably sourced, and that also emulate the great taste of traditional milk from the Alps regions of Switzerland, France and Austria. Working with food scientists, the Company's goal is to conduct continuous food research and development programs with the aim of rolling out a full line of dairy alternative products, including Moogurt and Buetter, as well as many other products, that are better for YOU and better for the planet.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD of DIRECTORSNima BahramiChief Executive Officer and Director bettermoo(d) Food CorporationFor further information please contact:Email: investors@ bettermoodfoodcorporation.com Website: www.bettermoo.com Phone: 1-855-715-1865The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release may contain certain forward looking statements and forward looking information (collectively, "Forward-Looking Statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements with respect to the anticipated restocking and expansion of Moodrink, are forward-looking statements. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.SOURCE: bettermoo(d) Food Corporation PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 23:00:51 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 519 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 WINDOW ROCK, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Dine Development Corporation (DDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors: Mark Freeland, Sam Rosenfeld, and Brad Preber. The new members bring a wealth of experience in Navajo government, risk management, and finance industries to oversee DDC's strategy and governance."As we embark on our twentieth year as an organization, it is a pivotal time to welcome refreshed perspectives to our growth initiatives," stated DDC CEO, Austin Tsosie. "Our new members strengthen our Navajo, financial, and compliance expertise to usher in the next tier of excellence, innovation, and expansion in support of our customers, the Navajo Nation, and communities we serve." Mark Freeland is a former Council Delegate of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, the legislative branch of the Navajo Nation Government. In this role, he served on the Council's Resources and Development Committee (RDC) regulating authority of the Navajo Nation's environmental and cultural resources, economic development, and other areas vital to Tribal sustainability. Mr. Freeland formerly served as Executive Staff Assistant for the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President and is currently pursuing an MBA from the University of New Mexico.Sam Rosenfeld is the Managing Director of SR Advisory, a private advisory firm offering bespoke consulting to a variety of clients. He also serves as the Managing Director of Cenerus providing financial and infrastructure management services delivering efficiency, transparency, and flexibility of financial operations. Prior to his current roles, he led organizations that delivered political and operational risk management and asset management in the international defense sector.He holds an Australian Financial Services License; MBA from Wharton Business School; MSc in Risk, Crisis, and Disaster Management; and BA in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the University of Leicester. Mr. Rosenfeld is published by the Wharton Financial Institution Center, volunteers through international organizations as a mentor to emerging market entrepreneurs, and advises technology start-ups and funds.Bradley (Brad) J. Preber is the former CEO and Chairman of the Board of Grant Thornton (GTUS), one of the largest audit, tax, and advisory services firms in the U.S. and largest member firm of Grant Thornton International, one of six global networks. Prior to joining GTUS, Brad worked for Touche Ross & Co. and Arthur Andersen serving as an Audit and Advisory Partner. During his tenure at GTUS, Brad served on the Board of Directors for various GTUS sectors and the Center for Audit Quality leading the Anti-Fraud Work Group. Brad is currently a Trustee for the University of New Mexico Foundation and serves on the Board of The Plaza Group.He holds a BBA from the University of New Mexico where he was inducted into the Robert O. Anderson School of Management Hall of Fame. Brad held certifications including CPA, CGMA, CFF, CFE, and CCA and was qualified as a financial expert under SEC rules. Brad is an esteemed financial communications author and data analytics co-author.Contact Information:Katie von AllmenSenior Marketing Managerkatie.vonallmen@ddc-dine.com SOURCE: Dine Development Corporation (DDC)View the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 16:30:49 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 648 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Company to make 600 trees available to residential customers, in turn reducing costs, improving energy efficiency and furthering sustainabilityNEWARK, DE / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Delmarva Power customers can now request a free tree to plant at their home as part of the company's partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation's Energy-Saving Trees program. Residential customers can reserve a complimentary tree on a first-come, first-served basis and reap the energy-saving benefits that trees provide.Delmarva Power will make 600 free trees available to customers throughout its Delaware and Maryland service areas. Customers can choose their tree from several types of species native to the northeast region, such as Baldcypress, River Birch, Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood and Red Maple. Trees will be delivered by mail by the end of May. Visit arborday.org/delmarva to reserve a tree while supplies last. Delmarva Power reminds customers to know what's below and call 811 to have utility underground lines marked before they begin planting."The trees planted under this program enhance our communities while providing numerous energy-saving and environmental benefits to our customers," said Doug Mokoid, Delmarva Power region president. "In our 12th consecutive year of partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, we feel incredibly grateful for their collaboration to foster a program that aligns with our dedication to addressing environmental challenges faced by our community members. Together, we'll create a path toward a cleaner energy future for all." When planted properly, trees provided through the program have the potential to reduce energy bills by 15 to 30 percent as they grow. Trees also play a critical role in protecting homes from the summer sun and breaking up winter winds for better energy efficiency, in addition to improving the air we breathe. Customers can find interactive tools online through the Arbor Day Foundation to help them determine where to plant their tree for energy savings."We are proud to continue an over decade-long partnership with Delmarva Power, whose dedication to the Energy-Saving Trees program only echoes the company's larger commitment to improving their communities," said Kristen Bousquet, program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees provided through our program can help reduce carbon emissions and filter storm water while also providing critical energy savings, benefiting both the environment and Delmarva Power valued customers." The trees distributed by Delmarva Power since beginning its partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation are expected to absorb more than 195,072 pounds of air pollutants, save nearly 26.34 million kWh of energy and provides nearly $10 million in combined energy and community benefits.Delmarva Power is committed to powering a more sustainable future for our service area by engaging in several programs that better our communities. The Sustainable Communities Grant Program provides funding to open space projects, community resiliency programs, environmental conservation efforts and improvements to parks and recreation resources. Furthermore, our Climate Commitment and Path to Clean goals align our operations, grid investments and customer product offerings to enable the company to meet the climate change and clean energy goals of the communities in which we operate.Delmarva Power has also been a Tree Line USA member for more than 20 years. Tree Line USA is a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters that recognizes public and private utilities for pursuing best practices that protect and cultivate America's urban tree canopy. Learn more about urban planting work done by the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org To learn more about Delmarva Power, visitThe Source,Delmarva Power's online newsroom. Find additional information by visiting delmarva.com , on Facebook at facebook.com/DelmarvaPower and on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/DelmarvaConnect . Delmarva Power's mobile app is available at delmarva.com/MobileApp # # #View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Delmarva Power on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Delmarva PowerWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/delmarva-power Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Delmarva Power PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 10:02:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 609 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against GrafTech International Ltd. ("GrafTech" or "the Company") (NYSE:EAF) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired GrafTech securities between February 8, 2019 and August 23, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/EAF Case Details:The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, GrafTech made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:(1) GrafTech's 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) GrafTech's 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) GrafTech's 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) GrafTech's capital expenditures and/or related operational projects were woefully insufficient to adequately address the harm that GrafTech's 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 GrafTech's 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 GrafTech's business, operations, reputation, and financial results.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/EAF or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in GrafTech you have until March 25, 2024, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:22:22 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 480 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 EAGAN, MN / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 /Emergency Technical Decon (ETD), a state-of-the-art cleaning solution provider tackling the high firefighter occupational cancer rates, today announced Ten-8 Fire & Safety, a leading United States distributor of fire and emergency apparatus and equipment, as a new Independent Service Provider (ISP) utilizing ETD's liquid CO2 technologies.Emergency Technical Decon and Ten-8 Fire & Safety Emergency Technical Decon and Ten-8 Fire & Safety logos.The announcement, following Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in January, builds on ETD's mission to exceed industry requirements and guidelines to lower the line-of-duty cancer rates within the fire service."The Ten-8 Fire and Safety team shares our core values, making this partnership a perfect fit," says Mike Duyck, President of Emergency Technical Decon, and retired fire chief. "The southeast is home to highly progressive fire departments in search of innovative solutions to keep their firefighters safe. We are proud to partner with Ten-8 to bring the first liquid CO2 ISP to the region." Ten-8 becomes the second location in the U.S. to offer this technology as fire departments come to learn of the indisputable benefits of liquid CO2 turnout cleaning solutions. ETD's liquid CO2+ machines will be operating in Ten-8's headquarters located in Bradenton, FL in Q3 2024, following a grand opening event in July."Ten-8 is excited to bring this new technology to our colleagues in the fire service in Florida and Georgia," says Keith Chapman, President and CEO of Ten-8 Fire & Safety and retired fire chief. "Ten-8 has actively supported the endeavor to bring awareness and solutions to the cancer epidemic, focusing on related charitable sponsorships over the last several years. We are privileged to start an ISP that will positively impact our customers' health and wellness." For Florida and Georgia departments interested in exploring local, research tested and proven turnout cleaning solutions, reach out to Ten-8 Fire & Safety today at Ten8Fire.com About Emergency Technical DeconEmergency Technical Decon is a full-service National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1851 verified ISP providing service to fire departments for advanced cleaning, inspection, and repair of firefighter turnout gear utilizing liquid CO2 for complete decontamination. For more information, visit www.etdecon.com About Ten-8 Fire and SafetyTen-8 Fire and Safety is a major United States fire and emergency apparatus and equipment distributor. Focused on serving customers in Florida and Georgia, our knowledgeable sales, service, and support staff comprises over 200 employees. For almost 40 years, we have worked hard to improve our business and expand our customer base, continually investing in our personnel and facilities. Operating out of nine service locations, we strive to make our service experience second to none.ContactsEmergency Technical Decon, PPEclean@ etdecon.com Ten-8 Fire & Safety, Social@ ten8fire.com Media Inquiries, kduyck@ etdecon.com Contact InformationKimberly Duyckkduyck@ etdecon.com SOURCE: Emergency Technical DeconView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:00:56 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 817 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Unlocking Prosperity: Business Opportunities Await! All Entrepreneurs Invited to Seize the MomentNAPLES, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / (OTCQB:STEK)Stemtech Corporation, the pioneering leader in stem cell nutrition for nearly 20 years, is thrilled to invite individuals to two exclusive events, designed to explore the remarkable benefits of stem cell nutrition and the unparalleled business opportunities it presents. These events promise valuable insights into the transformative potential of stem cell nutrition technology.Stemtech's patented, all-natural, plant-based products assist your body's own stem cells as a daily supplement, supporting anti-aging and all the benefits that stem cells provide without surgery or invasive procedures. Learn how these products can improve your health and wellness. Learn about Stemtech's income earning opportunity.Doral, Florida Event: Hosted by Luigi Gonzalez, Stemtech's Triple Diamond Independent Business Partner (IBP) and Field Advisory Board (FAB) MemberDate: Monday, February 26, 2024Time: 7:00 PMVenue: Wingate Hotel, Doral, FloridaReservations: 305-280-0333Guadalajara Event:Date: Saturday, February 24, 2024Time: 10:00 AMVenue: Hotel City Express, Guadalajara, MexicoReservations: 33 3623 1950At both events, attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the cutting-edge world of stem cell nutrition, learning about the miracle of stem cells and the myriad benefits for health and well-being. Stemtech's expert team will elucidate the science behind stem cell technology, shedding light on its potential to revolutionize the field of nutrition and overall health and wellness.Moreover, Stemtech recognizes the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and offers attendees a comprehensive understanding of the lucrative business opportunities within the stem cell sector. Whether participants are seeking to enhance their health or explore avenues for financial growth, or both, these events are poised to provide invaluable insights and resources.These events are open to all individuals interested in learning more about stem cell nutrition and the dynamic opportunities it presents. Admission is free, making this an accessible opportunity for anyone eager to explore the future of health and entrepreneurship.Stem Cell Market Growth Projections:Recent projections from "Grand View Research" indicate that the global stem cells market is on an upward trajectory. In 2022, the market was estimated to be valued at USD $13.3 billion, and by 2023, it had reached USD $14.8 billion. Furthermore, the market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 9.74% from 2023 to 2030, with anticipated revenues reaching USD $31.56 billion by 2030.Stemtech's events serve as a timely platform to understand and capitalize on this burgeoning market, offering attendees a unique opportunity to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry.ABOUT STEMTECHStemtech Corporation, a leading stemceutical company with a direct sales distribution model, was founded on April 18, 2018, after acquiring the operations from its predecessor Stemtech International, Inc., which was established in 2005. From 2010 through 2015, Stemtech International, Inc., was recognized four separate times on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies list. In 2018, Stemtech underwent an extensive executive reorganization, and continued operations under new leadership as Stemtech Corporation. In August 2021, Stemtech became a publicly traded company (OTCQB:STEK) and has expanded business opportunities for its Independent Business Partners, who may earn incomes by sharing Stemtech products. Stemtech is well positioned as the pioneer in stem cell nutrition, oral and skin care products, to increase sales in the wellness industry.Forward-Looking StatementsThis announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include but are not limited to statements identified by words such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "intends," "plans," "targets," "projects" and similar expressions. The statements in this release are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Numerous factors could cause or contribute to such differences, including, but not limited to, results of clinical trials and/or other studies, the challenges inherent in new product development initiatives, the effect of any competitive products, our ability to license and protect our intellectual property, our ability to raise additional capital in the future that is necessary to maintain our business, changes in government policy and/or regulation, potential litigation by or against us, any governmental review of our products or practices, as well as other risks discussed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, our latest 10-Q Report filed on December 1, 2023. We undertake no duty to update any forward-looking statement, or any information contained in this press release or in other public disclosures at any time. Finally, the investing public is reminded that the only announcements or information about Stemtech Corporation which are condoned by the Company must emanate from the Company itself and bear our name as its Source.Investor Relations:Gabriel RodriguezEmail: erelationsgroup@ gmail.com Phone: +1 623-261-9046Stemtech CorporationPhone: +1 954-715-6000 ext 1040Email: invrel@ stemtech.comwww.Stemtech.com SOURCE: Stemtech Corporation PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:01:02 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 804 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 COLORADO SPRINGS, CO / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Fortitude Gold Corp. (OTCQB:FTCO) (the "Company") announced multiple wide, high-grade gold drill intercepts at its East Camp Douglas North target. Intercepts include 1.52 meters grading 32.00 grams per tonne (g/t) gold within 18.29 meters grading 4.28 g/t gold, 6.10 meters grading 4.23 g/t gold within 9.14 meters grading 2.92 g/t gold, and 41.15 meters grading 1.09 g/t gold. Fortitude Gold is a gold producer, developer, and explorer with operations in Nevada, U.S.A. offering investors exposure to both gold production and dividend yield.East Camp Douglas North drill highlights include (m=meters, g/t=grams per tonne) (full drill table below):Hole# ECDRC-085:6.10 m of 1.25 g/t goldincl.3.05 m of 2.06 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-096:41.15 m of 1.09 g/t goldincl.3.05 m of 4.11 g/t gold & 4.57 m of 2.37 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-099:13.72 m of 1.63 g/t goldincl.3.05 m of 5.52 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-100:25.91 m of 0.83 g/t goldincl.3.05 m of 1.14 g/t gold & 1.52 m of 3.52 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-109:6.10 m of 1.72 g/t goldincl.1.52 m of 5.09 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-111:9.14 m of 2.92 g/t goldincl.6.10 m of 4.23 g/t goldHole# ECDRC-116:18.29 m of 4.28 g/t goldincl.1.52 m of 32.00 g/t gold & 1.52 m of 2.14 g/t gold & 3.05 m of 9.33 g/t gold This reverse circulation drill program builds on the Company's December 2023 and January 2024 drill results (click here to review the December 2023 press release and here to review the January 2024 press release). Historic third-party drilling along with the Company's 2023 and 2024 exploration and drill programs have defined high-grade gold at East Camp Douglas North and this recent drill program adds to the current geologic model."It is exciting to continue to intercept near surface gold at East Camp Douglas North as we continue to push our drill program further to the north," stated Mr. Allan Turner, Vice President of Exploration for Fortitude Gold. "We are leveraging our 2023 surface mapping program to guide our drill targets and we continue to be pleased with the results. Our mapping projects a potential extension of mineralization further to the north which we plan to follow up with additional step-out drilling by mid-2024." "Over eighteen meters, or sixty feet, of 4.28 grams per tonne is an impressive width of very high-grade gold," stated Mr. Jason Reid, CEO and President of Fortitude Gold. "Numerous other wide high-grade gold intercepts, including over nine meters of 2.29 grams per tonne gold, speak to our East Camp Douglas property as being a very large, powerful, and high-grade gold system. Not many geologic systems and properties ever return one ounce gold per tonne results like were returned with over one- and one-half meters of 32 grams per tonne gold. With each successful drill program in numerous locations on this very large land position, the critical mass continues to build towards what we hope results in an initial resource in one or several areas of mineralization being drilling at the East Camp north veins." About Fortitude Gold Corp.:Fortitude Gold is a U.S. based gold producer targeting projects with low operating costs, high margins, and strong returns on capital. The Company's strategy is to grow organically, remain debt-free and distribute substantial dividends. The Company's Nevada Mining Unit consists of seven high-grade gold properties located in the Walker Lane Mineral Belt and an eighth high-grade gold property in west central Nevada. The Isabella Pearl gold mine, located on the Isabella Pearl mineralized trend, is currently in production. Nevada, U.S.A. is among the world's premier mining friendly jurisdictions.Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. If you are risk-averse you should NOT buy shares in Fortitude Gold Corp. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding the Company's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release.Contact: Greg Patterson719-717-9825 greg.patterson@fortitudegold.comwww.Fortitudegold.com SOURCE: Fortitude Gold Corporation PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:00:39 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 439 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CHEYENNE, WY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / In a monumental stride towards innovation in healthcare technology, Genesys Network has been selected as one of the top six companies to take center stage at the highly anticipated AIBC Summit in Dubai, 2024. With its groundbreaking medical application, Health Link, powered by Genesys Blockchain, the company is set to showcase the transformative potential of blockchain in revolutionizing the health industry.The AIBC Summit, renowned for gathering leading minds in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and emerging technologies, has handpicked Genesys for its pioneering efforts in leveraging blockchain to address critical challenges in healthcare.HealthLink represents a paradigm shift in medical applications, offering a comprehensive platform that seamlessly integrates blockchain technology with healthcare services. By harnessing the immutable and transparent nature of blockchain, Health Link ensures the secure storage and sharing of medical data, enabling patients and healthcare providers to access critical information with unparalleled trust and efficiency."At Genesys, we envision a future where healthcare is truly patient-centric, transparent, and secure. With HealthLink, we are on a mission to empower individuals with greater control over their health data while fostering collaboration and innovation within the healthcare ecosystem," remarked Rolando Polanco, CEO of Genesys Network.The significance of blockchain in healthcare cannot be overstated. By establishing a decentralized infrastructure, blockchain mitigates the risks associated with data breaches and unauthorized access, safeguarding sensitive patient information. Moreover, it facilitates interoperability among disparate healthcare systems, streamlining processes, and enhancing the quality of care delivery.HealthLink's impact extends beyond individual patient care, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in medical research, clinical trials, and population health management. By facilitating secure data sharing and incentivizing participation, HealthLink accelerates the pace of discovery and innovation in healthcare, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced costs.The selection of Genesys as a top presenter at the AIBC Summit underscores the industry's recognition of the company's leadership and innovation in blockchain-powered healthcare solutions. With the spotlight on HealthLink, Genesys Network is poised to inspire and catalyze a new era of transformative change in the health industry, driving towards a future where technology serves as a catalyst for positive societal impact.As the countdown begins to the AIBC Summit in Dubai, 2024, all eyes are on Genesys Network as it prepares to showcase the future of healthcare through HealthLink, setting the stage for a revolution in medical applications powered by blockchain technology.Official Links:Twitter: https://twitter.com/GenesysChainTelegram: https://t.me/GenesysNetworkMedium: https://medium.com/@Genesys_Network Media Details: Company Name: Genesys NetworkCompany Email: support@ genesys.network Company Website: https://www.genesys.network/Contact Person: Rolando Polanco, CEOCity & Country: CHEYENNE, USASOURCE: Genesys Network BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The EU Monitoring Mission to Armenia (EUMA) has no access to the Armenian Nerkin-And settlement [from where Armenia committed provocation resulting in the injury of an Azerbaijani serviceman], said the head of EUMA Markus Ritter, Trend reports. "We have access to almost all of Armenia's region. However, there are several challenges to getting to Nerkin-And. The problem is due to the fact that it lies under the duty zone of the Russian FSB (Federal Security Service) border guards," he noted. In this approach, the EUMA may have decided to relinquish responsibility for allowing Armenia's provocation against Azerbaijan. Apparently, EU pensioners did not clean their binocular lenses properly, since they missed the shot from an Armenian sniper toward the Azerbaijani side. All of this is not surprising, given that 'binocular diplomacy' has long been demonstrated to be ineffective in decreasing tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border but rather serves the interests of countries such as France and others. Meanwhile, Armenia's Security Council Secretary recently accused Russia of "allowing" Azerbaijan to carry out an operation in reaction to Armenian provocation. So, Armenia may provoke, but Azerbaijan can't respond? Azerbaijan had a clear right to retaliate, and it exercised it, showing Armenia how Baku would react to provocations. On February 12, gunfire erupted from Armenian Armed Forces positions in Nerkin-And settlement of the Gafan district, targeting Azerbaijan's Border Guards of the State Border Service (SBS) in Kollugishlaq village of the Zangilan district. As a consequence of the incident, soldier Parviz Khalilzade, a serviceman of the SBS, was injured. The military serviceman was evacuated to a specialized medical facility via helicopter. Moreover, on February 12, at 20:50 and 23:40 (GMT +4), the Armenian army units from the positions in the direction of Chinarli settlement of the Tovuzgala region used small arms to fire the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the direction of Kokhanabi settlement of the Tovuz district. In response to this provocation of the Armenian army, the units of the SBS of Azerbaijan carried out the "Revenge" operation on February 13. According to the SBS, the operation resulted in the complete destruction of the Armenian Armed Forces' combat post near Nerkin-And settlement, from where the Azerbaijani Army positions were fired the day before. "There have been reports of substantial personnel losses at the damaged combat position. Any provocations by the Armenian side aimed at escalating tensions along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border will now be met with even more serious and decisive reactions. The military-political leadership of Armenia bears full responsibility for these developments," said the SBS statement. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:17:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 920 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Inogen AllianceRemaining informed about new trends and innovations in environment, health, safety, (EHS) and sustainability is crucial for industry professionals dedicated to continuously enhancing their company's processes and initiatives.There are a multitude of upcoming EHS and Sustainability events across the globe that can serve as invaluable resources for gaining fresh insights, identifying new trends, and ultimately contributing to a safer and more environmentally friendly workplace and planet. From interactive sessions to inspirational presentations and networking opportunities, here is a brief compilation of global EHS and sustainability conferences and events that should be on your radar for 2024.AsiaSustainability Week AsiaDate: 11-13 MarchLocation: Bangkok, ThailandEvent Details: In its third year, Sustainability Week Asia will connect sustainability changemakers, purpose-driven consumers and business leaders to gain the tools needed to transition to net-zero, faster. Join us in Bangkok for case studies, in-depth panels, private roundtable discussions and networking opportunities, that support your journey to rapid business transformation.Website: https://events.economist.com/sustainability-week-asia/ 2024 Shanghai Climate WeekDate: week of April 22Location: Shanghai, ChinaEvent Details: SHCWs mission is to respond to climate change and implement the SDGs. Shanghai Climate Week aims at "China Action, Asia Voice, Global Standard", pushing social forces of engagement in China's Commitment of Carbon Peaking & Carbon Neutering Goals, telling the Chinese story with action plan for climate change, delivering Asia voice for green transformation, enhancing international communication & collaboration on climate change, and participating in layout & implementation of international rules.EREE 2024 - 2024 6th International Conference on Environment, Resources and Energy EngineeringDate: 7-9 NovemberLocation: Bali IndonesiaEvent Details: With increasingly serious environmental pollution, developing an economic, simple and efficient technology of Resources, Environmental & Energy Engineering has now become a hot topic. EREE 2024 is an optimal platform for academic communications, exchange of ideas and inspirations between specialists and scholars in the fields of Environment, Resources and Energy Engineering, including hot issues such as solar energy, natural environment and renewable resources. The event will encourage the exploration of the potential synergies that may arise from pooling the different perspectives.Website: https://www.eree.org/ Africa14th Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Development ForumDate: 28 Feb to 2 MarLocation: Sharm El-Sheikh, EgyptEvent Details: The three-days forum will cover the three factors of ESG separately. The first day will focus on "Environmental Governance" through tackling a number of relevant topics, topped by establishing a link between the long-term national strategies and the executive strategies of the business community to protect the environment. It will also thrash out risk management files and disclosure related to climate and biodiversity issues as well as Sustainable Finance. The second day concentrates on "Social Governance", through tackling the most general concepts, companies' citizenship practices and means of highlighting the social dimension while preparing sustainability reports and linking it to the other two dimensions. It also focuses on the characteristics and importance of social investment as well as methods and tools for preparing social impact reports, and assessing the social impact and the social return on investment (SROI). The third day discusses "Governance and its role in ensuring sustainable growth" alongside the regulatory frameworks governing disclosure, divulging data transparently, effective internal control (COSO Framework) and integrating sustainability communication into business strategy. The gathering will also review the most important "ESG Framework" reports.Website: https://www.egyptcsrforum.com/ Inogen Alliance Associates HPC Germany and Integral Egypt will be presenting at this conference, find us there!Accelerating Nature-Based Solutions ConferenceDate: 11-15 MarchLocation: ZambiaEvent Details: The Global EverGreening Alliance, the Government of Zambia, AFR100, African Natural Capital Alliance (ANCA), FSD Africa, and the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, is hosting the world's largest land restoration programming conference, bringing together NGOs, governments, the private sector, technical and scientific experts, and community representativesWebsite: https://www.acceleratingnbsconference.org/ 2024 Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable DevelopmentDate: 23-25 AprilLocation: TBAEvent Details: Organized by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the Forum will provide the space for an in-depth review of the Goals to be reviewed by the HLPF in 2024: SDG 1 (no poverty); SDG 2 (zero hunger); SDG 13 (climate action); SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions); and SDG 17 (partnership for the Goals). The Forum will also support presentation of voluntary national reviews (VNRs) at the 2024 HLPF.Website: https://sdg.iisd.org/events/2024-africa-regional-forum-on-sustainable-development/ ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Africa ConferenceDate: 1-2 OctoberLocation: South Africa, Sandton Convention CentreEvent Details: The conference's core theme, "Sustainable Future Through Leadership," underscores the essential role that leaders play in ensuring their organizations align with ESG principles and integrate them into their overall strategy. The founders of the event have done extensive research and developed a programme which is both unique and relevant for an African audience. The conference looks at answering a number of question - How do you make ESG both relevant and applicable in an African context? How do you drive a sustainability mindset within organisations to help embed ESG principles? How do you ensure that people have the adequate knowledge and training as to what ESG is, why it is important and how to make sure organisations drive the change needed to create a more sustainable future?Website: ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Africa ConferenceEuropeESG EuropeDate: February 28-29Location: London, EnglandEvent Details: CeFPro is excited to announce the launch of the 3rd Annual ESG Summit in London on February 28-29, 2024. Ov PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 13:42:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1050 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 COQUITLAM, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid") (TSXV:CELL)(OTCQB:EVKRF)(FRA:NMK2) is pleased to announce that it has confirmed the date and meeting location with our Transfer Agent, Odyssey Trust Company, for the Company's upcoming Annual Special and General Meeting (the "Meeting"). The Meeting will be set for 10:00 am (Pacific Standard Time) on April 9, 2024 and will be held at the Company's address of record, 3028 Quadra Court in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Mailout of the Management Information Circular to Grid shareholders will begin on March 13, 2024. A notice has recently been filed on SEDAR+ confirming these dates.Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments "At this year's upcoming Meeting, among other corporate matters, the shareholders will be voting on the spin-out of our wholly -owned subsidiary containing our BC Nickel assets, as a separate company that we plan on listing on the TSX Venture Exchange in the days ahead. For no additional cost, our shareholders will receive a proportionate share of this new entity, which will represent a valuable share dividend to each of our shareholders. We are separating our Nevada-based lithium properties from our British Columbia-based nickel properties, and plan on separately financing this new entity, AC/DC Battery Metals Inc., order to create additional shareholder value. We believe this to be a big win for our shareholders." The Proposed TransactionThe Company has entered into an Arrangement Agreement as amended, with its wholly owned subsidiary AC/DC Battery Metals Inc. ("SpinCo"). In accordance with the terms of the Arrangement Agreement and amendment, Grid will transfer to SpinCo ownership of its interests in its nickel properties in British Columbia, which consists of five claim blocks in three groups (Nickel West, Nickel Central, Nickel South) in the area surrounding Mount Sidney Williams, in close proximity to the Decar Project and the Baptiste deposit of FPX Nickel Corp (TSXV:FPX). (collectively, the "Transferred Assets") in exchange for approximately 9,414,040 common shares of SpinCo (the "Consideration Shares"). Grid will spin out the Consideration Shares (the "Spin-Out Shares") to Grid shareholders.It is proposed that the transaction will be carried out by way of statutory plan of arrangement (the "Spin-Out") pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the Spin-Out, shareholders of Grid would exchange their existing common shares of Grid for the same number of new common shares of Grid (having the identical terms of the existing Grid common shares) and Spin-Out Shares of SpinCo. There will be no change in shareholders' holdings in Grid as a result of the Spin-Out. It is anticipated that each Grid shareholder will receive 1/20 of a Spin-Out Share for each Grid common share held as at the record date for the arrangement. Grid will continue to hold its interest in its Nevada-based Lithium Projects (Texas Springs, Volt Canyon and Clayton Valley Lithium Projects).The Spin-Out Transaction requires the approval of the, the TSX Venture Exchange "(Exchange"), the Grid shareholders and approval of the British Columbia Supreme Court in order to proceed. Full details on the Spin-Out Transaction will be contained in the Management Information Circular to be prepared for the Grid shareholder meeting. Grid shareholders are urged to read the Management Information Circular carefully and in its entirety.The intention is to seek a listing of the SpinCo common shares on the Exchange but no assurance can be provided that such a listing will be obtained. Any such listing will be subject to SpinCo fulfilling all of the applicable regulatory and listing requirements.BC Nickel Property UpdateThe Company announced on January 10, 2024 the filing of its National Instrument # 43-101 Technical Report for the Nickel Project, dated December 4, 2023, in the Takla Lake Area, BC and prepared by Jeremy Hanson, P.Geo. (the "Technical Report") has been filed on SEDAR+ ( www.sedarplus.ca) and can be obtained on the Company's website at gridbatterymetals.com/nickel-project . As a recap, the third phase of our BC Nickel exploration program was completed in 2023 and included a detailed sampling, trenching and initial drilling program.The proposed fourth phase of the exploration program, planned for the 2024 exploration season, follows a recommendation contained within the Technical Report. Within this exploration plan, funds have been allocated for exploration work that includes field work on all three claim block groups targeting historic results, vectoring towards elevated DTR Ni, and sampling and mapping of untested magnetic anomalies.The exploration stage project is in the Trembleur Lake area of central British Columbia, partially adjacent to FPX Nickel Corp.'s (TSXV: FPX, OTC: FPOCF) Decar Nickel Project, which is an advanced project targeting awaruite, a nickel-iron alloy mineral, hosted by serpentinized ultramafic intrusive rocks of the Trembleur Ultramafic Unit. FPX Nickel Corp. has invested over CAD$25 million developing the Decar Project and plans to issue a Prefeasibility Study this calendar year as announced on June 27, 2023 showing increased nickel recoveries on the project. FPX's Decar Nickel Project is widely recognized as on the 7th largest nickel deposit in the world (Source: Mining.com , May 1, 2023).Qualified PersonJeremy Hanson, P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by NI 43 - 101, is responsible for the technical information contained in this release regarding Grid's BC Nickel Properties. Readers are cautioned that the information in this press release regarding the property of FPX Nickel Corp is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the property of interest.About Grid Battery Metals Inc.Grid Battery Metals Inc. is a Canadian based exploration company whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market. www.gridbatterymetals.com About Texas Springs PropertyThe Company owns a 100% interest in the Texas Spring Property which consists of mineral lode claims located in Elko County, Nevada. The Property is in the Granite Range southeast of Jackpot, Nevada, about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Nevada. The target is a lithium clay deposit in volcanic tuff and tuffaceous sediments of the Humbolt Formation. A Phase 1 exploration program at the Texas Springs Property (Fall 2023) yielded results with average lithium grades of 2010 ppm, applying a 1,000 ppm cut-off, and up to 5,610 ppm Lithium.The Texas Spring property adjoins the southern bor PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:21:56 Press Information Published by ACN Newswire +65 6304 8926 e-mail https://www.acnnewswire.com/ # 766 Words ACN Newswire+65 6304 8926 HONG KONG, Feb 21, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today announced its major focus areas for 2024-2025, which strengthen Hong Kongs status as a leading global business and investment hub and convention and exhibition (C&E) centre. The HKTDC is committed to promoting Hong Kongs advantages internationally and creating opportunities for Hong Kong businesses.HKTDC Chairman Dr Peter K N Lam said: With the record-breaking attendance at our Asian Financial Forum (AFF) in January, it is clear that international business leaders and investors have returned to Hong Kong. Looking ahead, we will further consolidate Hong Kong's status as an international financial, trade and international C&E centre and promote Hong Kong's strengths internationally. We will redouble our efforts to highlight Hong Kongs unique role in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and further integrate into the overall development of Mainland China, while actively exploring other rapidly growing markets, such as ASEAN and the Middle East. We will also continue to focus on the key growth drivers of innovation, sustainability and wellness. Since full reopening in March 2023, the HKTDC has stepped up efforts to attract business people across the globe to return to Hong Kong, and the Councils trade events have welcomed visitors from Asia, the Middle East to Africa and Europe to the Americas, reinforcing Hong Kongs position as a business and investment hub.Last year, we staged some 40 major events, attracting over 22,000 exhibitors and over 430,000 physical buyers and participants from Hong Kong, the mainland and around the world, with particularly notable growth in visitors from Mainland China, ASEAN and the Middle East. Indeed, exhibitor and buyer participation at last year's HKTDC trade fairs has returned to 70-80% of pre-pandemic levels, with some even reaching 90%. Our anchor conferences, such as the AFF and the Belt and Road Summit, also attracted record-breaking attendance and strong international participation.HKTDCs 2024-2025 major work focus is:1. Strengthen Hong Kongs position within the GBA and its integration into national developmentThe HKTDC will open two new GBA business support centres in Huizhou and Zhaoqing in March. With these additional centres, we will have a physical presence in all mainland GBA cities to provide stronger on-the-ground support to businesses that are interested in tapping GBA opportunities.Version 2.0 of the HKTDCs offline and online business support programme GoGBA will be launched to provide more comprehensive support for businesses keen to access the GBA. It will include a five-in-one support plan for different industries, comprising seminars, group and one-on-one consultations, GBA business visits and industry information kits.We will enhance the promotion of infrastructure and real estate services (IRES), legal and other professional services and arrange trade delegations to mainland GBA cities to facilitate collaboration.We will stage SmartHK in Nanjing to boost collaboration between Hong Kong and Yangtze River Delta in trade, innovation and green finance.The HKTDC will launch a new innovation and technology (I&T) zone at the Hong Kong Services Pavilion at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai to promote Hong Kong's I&T strengths.We will expand product offerings at the Hong Kong Pavilion at the China International Consumer Goods Expo in Hainan to cover niche sectors in high demand.2. Connect Hong Kong with opportunities in RCEP and beyond to reinforce Hong Kongs status as a resilient and connected business hubHKTDCs mega promotion Think Business, Think Hong Kong will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia to showcase Hong Kongs world-class services.We will launch a Hong Kong Professional Plus campaign to help local service providers understand the ASEAN market and seize opportunities.A fundraising roadshow to ASEAN or the Middle East will be organised to connect corporates with imminent fundraising needs and reinforce Hong Kongs role as a fundraising hub.We will also lead a delegation to the Middle East to help Hong Kong IRES providers strengthen ties with their Middle Eastern counterparts.The HKTDC will launch the New Market Navigator Series, which consists of exploratory study missions and participation in trade fairs in targeted regions to highlight Hong Kongs competitive edge across industries.In terms of the ASEAN market, we will stage a Hong Kong product showcase at the FHA-HoReCa in Singapore, one of the largest events in Asia in the sector. For the Middle East market, we will participate in regional trade fairs, such as Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East. Partnerships with relevant industry associations will be explored to arrange missions consisting of company visits, business matching meetings and networking.Click here https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/89131/ PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 16:26:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 477 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 EDMONTON, AB / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / IMBiotechnologies Ltd. ("IMBiotechnologies") is pleased to announce the signing of a supply agreement with Embol Experts, LLC ("Embol Experts"), one of the largest group purchasing organizations (GPOs) in the US, supplying office-based laboratory (OBL) and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) clinics focused on minimally-invasive procedures."We are excited to be working with IMBiotechnologies as their Ekobi microspheres are truly unique compared to the other embolic agents on the market," said Keerthi Prasad, MD, Principal of Embol Experts. "We believe, the biodegradability and ultrasound detectability features improve the overall safety and efficacyof the procedure, enhancingpatient outcomes." "We are delighted with the opportunity to work with Embol Experts as they continue to grow in the ambulatory market," said Michael Stewart, CEO of IMBiotechnologies. "We look forward to working with Embol Experts to further develop and expand the use of our Ekobi Embolization Microsphere product." Ekobi EmbolizationMicrospheresEkobi Embolization Microspheres, is a first-in-class, biodegradable embolic agent that is detectable by ultrasound. Ekobi Embolization Microspheres are approved in the US for treatment of unresectable/inoperable hypervascularized tumors and in Canada for the treatment of malignant and non- malignant hypervascularized tumors (HVT), uterine fibroids, and enlarged prostates due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).About Embol Experts, LLC.Embol Experts, LLC is a joint venture between Arthritis Knee Pain Centers and Embolix. Arthritis Knee Pain Centers are centers of excellence, treating the debilitating pain of osteoarthritis without the need for opioids or surgery. Embolix is the market leader in outpatientembolization procedures and partnerships. Together, these companies have achieved exponential growth by providing patients with cost-effective pain-relieving technologies and procedures.About IMBiotechnologies Ltd.IMBiotechnologies Ltd is a privately held Canadian medical device company located in Edmonton, Alberta, focused on the commercialization of medical productsin the area of embolotherapy. The company's mission isto create and commercialize innovative productsthat treat human disease and improve quality of life.For More Information Please Contact:Michael Stewart, President & CEO+1-780-945-6609Email: mstewart@ imbiotechnologies.com Manish Grigo+1-416-569-3292Email: mgrigo @ imbiotechnologies.com 1 Source: Radiological Socitey of North America https://www.rsna.org/news/2022/march/gae-for-knee-oa Forward Looking Statements:This press release may contain forward-looking statements and predictions. These forward-looking statements, by their nature, necessarily involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. The Company considers the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based to be reasonable at the time they were prepared, but cautions that these assumptions regarding the future events, many of whichare beyond the control of the Company,may ultimately prove to be incorrect. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events and except as required by law.SOURCE: IMBIOTECHNOLOGIES LTD. PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:31:52 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 536 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ADM Investors with Substantial Losses Encouraged to Contact Hagens Berman, National Trial AttorneysSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Hagens Berman urges Archer Daniels Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Apr. 30, 2020 - Jan. 22, 2024Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Mar. 25, 2024Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/adm Contact An Attorney Now: ADM@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Archer Daniels Midland Co. (ADM) Securities Fraud Class Action:The litigation focuses on Archer Daniels' statements about the performance of its Nutrition segment, a business the company poured billions of dollars into to protect against commodity price volatility in its legacy agricultural commodities trading business.The complaint alleges Archer Daniels made misleading statements and concealed that: (1) the Nutrition segment's financial reporting and accounting practices did not provide investors with an accurate impression of the company's performance and future prospects, including reported operating profits; (2) the Nutrition segment's accounting practices created a heightened risk of regulatory scrutiny and adverse impacts to the company's business; and (3) based on the foregoing, the defendants lacked a reasonable basis for their positive statements about the Nutrition segment and related financial results, growth, and prospects.Investors began to learn the truth on Jan. 21, 2024, when Archer Daniels announced that it had placed CFO Vikram Luther on leave effective immediately. The company said that Luther's "leave is pending an ongoing investigation being conducted by outside counsel for ADM and the Board's Audit Committee regarding certain accounting practices and procedures with respect to ADM's Nutrition segment, including as related to certain intersegment transactions." Archer Daniels also revealed that its investigation was initiated in response to its receipt of a voluntary document request by the SEC.The company further stated that it is delaying its Q4 and FY 2023 earnings release and withdrew its outlook for the Nutrition segment.This news sent the price of Archer Daniels shares crashing as much as $14.46 (or about 21%) lower during intraday trading on Jan. 22, 2024.If you invested in Archer Daniels and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Archer Daniels case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Archer Daniels 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 ADM@ 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.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 23:01:04 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 515 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN JOSE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / The leader in helping individuals and existing landscape companies scale their business,Goat Gang , is announcing another massive giveaway. The event, which will take place at the end of March 2024, looks to give away a dump trailer, MacBooks, and tools, over the course of three days.Founded byTigran Gertz , Goat Gang is proudly looking forward to hosting the three-day event. The first day will cater to hands-on experience for attendees. Participants will visit Tigran's current job sites where he will personally instruct them on the ins and outs of running a successful landscape company.Tigran will teach participants the hallmarks of effective communication with employees, how to properly interpret plans, and the invaluable skill of engaging with customers effectively. Each participant will have open access to speak with Tigran's employees and even try out equipment in action.On the second day of the event, participants will visit the Goat Gang office, where talented administrators will guide them through the clerical nuances involved in running a successful business. Some of the tasks administrators will teach include answering calls, setting up offices, and creating comprehensive spreadsheets. Participants will also get a course in engaging with clients online. Tigran's social media team will carefully demonstrate how to film content, create viral videos, and strategically promote your business online.Lastly, on the third day of the event, Goat Gang will host their long-anticipated giveaway. The event is intended to be a party atmosphere, including food trucks and celebrations. This will be followed by dinner at a local restaurant where Tigran will personally address questions from participants. The overall goal of the event is for all attendees to leave with proven actionable ideas, which they can implement to secure higher-paying jobs and achieve greater levels of success in their businesses.Since Goat Gang's inception in 2018, the company has organized multiple well-attended giveaways. Each event is set up three months apart and has given away items exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars in market value to date. Just last summer, Goat Gang gave away a total of 6 dump trailers worth a cumulative $100,000. These prestigious giveaway events are exclusively available to Goat Gang members, as the company seeks to give its participants a highly competitive advantage over other businesses.About Goat GangThe founder of Goat Gang,Tigran Gertz , has long been an industry leader in the field of landscaping. His main business is a landscaping construction company that currently yields $5 million in revenue per year. Tigran founded Goat Gang as a Facebook group where he can pass down his invaluable knowledge and teach people how to run a successful business of their own. The tried and true methods of running a business that Tigran teaches through Goat Gang include how to properly hire the right employees, market your business, write contracts, scale your business, and manage valuable tools and equipment. As the owner of Goat Gang, Tigran proudly organizes massive giveaways in the group every three months.Media Details Website URL: https://goatgang.net/start-here Company Name: Goat GangEmail address:tg@ tgertz.com SOURCE: Goat Gang PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 22:25:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 477 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Luxury vacation rental marketplace VILLAWAY has announced that it recently launched an all-new AI-enhanced website. VILLAWAY has a curated portfolio of hand-picked and professionally managed premium vacation and private villa rentals all over the world and has recently acquired details about multiple new properties to add to its roster. These include over 500 villas in St. Barts and over 1,000 villas throughout the Caribbean.One of the new locations offered by VILLAWAY The latest locations will supplement the current offering of over 6,200 vacation rentals in 144 destinations worldwide, and the updated website will provide detailed information on each one. VILLAWAY's IT team has applied updated technology to its site with the goal of providing an easy-to-use online experience.Some of the company's newest highlighted services include a five-star service team of destination experts, villa specialists, and guest experience managers, and every reservation includes exclusive concierge services. Every booking also includes TripSecure trip coverage insurance so that if the unexpected occurs, guests have options for greater flexibility in postponing, canceling, or changing their reservations.The company has also started accepting payments via Bitcoin, as a nod to the fact that cryptocurrency is becoming more widespread in the travel industry as it saves travelers the necessity of changing currencies between countries.VILLAWAY was launched in 2016 in Los Angeles, California, by CEO and founder Joe Liebke. As an international real estate broker and investor, Liebke noticed that there was a gap in services when it came to travelers seeking a short term rental type of experience but with a greater degree of luxury and premium services. "We are a disruptive vacation rental company," shares Liebke. "We're essentially a luxury short term rental service with a focus on truly exceptional customer experience." He states that VILLAWAY aims to expand to 10,000 vacation villas over the next 18 months. "Our goal is to connect elite locations and property managers with discerning travelers seeking a five-star experience," Liebke says. "We have a strict vetting process. Every new property we're currently adding must meet rigorous quality demands." He adds that the newest properties to join the VILLAWAY lineup will conform to the company's demand for distinctive benefits uniquely tailored to each guest's needs. "These go beyond the capabilities of a typical hotel staff. All bookings include complimentary bespoke concierge service, staffed by a five-star expertly trained team that has the utmost in local destination knowledge," Liebke states.CEO and founder Joe Liebke VILLAWAY's new website has officially launched, and new listings are currently being added throughout the entirety of 2024.About VILLAWAYVILLAWAY is a luxury villa rental marketplace launched in 2016. The company offers hand-picked, inspected, and professionally managed properties around the world that offer 24/7 customer service and a dedicated personal concierge.Website: https://www.villaway.com/ Contact:Julie RenaeEmail: press@ villaway.com SOURCE: VILLAWAY PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 01:00:11 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 904 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / Velox Energy Materials Inc. (TSXV:VLX) ("Velox" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of a major metallurgical testwork program on vanadium samples from the Cambridge Vanadium deposit in Queensland.HighlightsAppointment of leading process engineers, BHM Process Consultants, to oversee the metallurgical program across the Cambridge deposit. Representative core samples from the recent diamond drilling program selected to assess different mineralogical zones within the prospective Toolebuc Formation. Samples have been submitted to Brisbane Met Labs (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium deposits. BML has multiple years in the analysis of Vanadium ores from Northern Queensland, which also includes being awarded an Industry Innovation grant for the establishment of a -vanadium pilot plant to process ore into vanadium pentoxide for the VRFB industry. Results from the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024. Metallurgical Testwork ProgramPerth-based BHM Process Consultants (BHM) have been appointed to oversee the metallurgical testwork program for the Cambridge Vanadium Project in North Queensland, Australia. BHM has excellent experience in processing from metallurgical testwork through to flowsheet design and plant commissioning.A total of 12 composite samples were created from the recent diamond drilling program, from 4 drillholes that represent the bulk of the defined Cambridge deposit. Each composite represents different mineralogical zones within the Toolebuc Formation that host the vanadium mineralisation.The samples will be analysed by Brisbane Met Labs, (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland Vanadium deposits. In 2021, BML was awarded an Industry Innovation grant by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources in Australia for the building and commissioning of a Vanadium Pilot Plant to allow processing of ore into Vanadium Pentoxide for the International Vanadium Redox Flow Battery market.The results of the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024 and will be used to guide the next stages of development of the project.Velox's President and CEO, Simon Coyle, commented:"Velox has been selective in the engagement of metallurgical consultants as well as the laboratory being utilized, to ensure we have the appropriate knowledge base to perform our maiden met testwork. BML have significant expertise in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium ores, which provides us with the confidence we have the best in class to conduct the analysis of our Cambridge Mineral Resource. Velox's goal is to have a process flow for our ores that creates world class recoveries, coupled with a low operating cost base."Given the relatively homogenous nature of the Toolebuc Formation across the region, we are confident that the metallurgical testwork program will deliver positive results and allow us to progress to the next stage of studies." Qualified PersonsThe Velox Energy Materials technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) and reviewed and approved on behalf Velox Energy Materials by Michael Griffiths, FAusIMM, Director & VP Exploration for Velox Energy Materials, a Qualified Person.About Velox Energy MaterialsVelox Energy Materials is a publicly traded energy materials company developing and progressing high-value assets in resource and research-friendly jurisdictions. The Company's priority focus is the advanced NQV Project in Queensland, Australia. The NQV Project hosts the Cambridge Deposit with an CIM compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 61.33 Mt @ 0.34% V2O5 and 234.6 ppm MoO3 along with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 144.87 Mt @ 0.33% V2O5 (cut-off grade of 0.25% V2O5) and 241.9 ppm MoO3 (Dufresne et al., 2022). The Company is targeting shallow, high-grade mineralisation that can be developed using low-cost mining and processing options.The Company additionally owns Kotai Energy and the option to acquire 100% of the intellectual property rights associated with the Solid-State Hydrogen Storage Project from Curtin University in Western Australia. Kotai is focused on the commercialisation of technology that can produce high-pressure hydrogen following transport as an inert powder.In October 2023, the Company acquired a package of tenements that are prospective for lithium in eastern Quebec.Please visit our website at www.veloxenergymaterials.com.au for further information.Approved by the Board of Velox Energy Materials Inc.Simon CoylePresident & CEO+1 416-214-7577Investor Relations ContactAndrew RowellInvestor Relations - AustraliaM: +61 400 466 226Email: andrew@ whitenoisecomms.comForward Looking StatementsNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's expectations, estimates and projections regarding its business and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements about the closing of the transaction, expected terms of the transaction, the number of securities of Velox Energy Materials that may be issued in connection with the transaction, and the parties' ability to satisfy closing conditions and receive necessary approvals are all forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements and readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them publicly to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances, unless otherwise required to do so by law.SOURCE: Velox Energy Materials Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:10:14 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 687 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ROCK HILL, SC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / With less than a month remaining until the IRS and State deadline for employers and health coverage providers to distribute copies of ACA Forms 1095-B/C to recipients, ACAwise presents an efficient solution.The deadline for furnishing recipient copies of ACA forms is closely followed by the deadline for filing with the IRS and State.Upcoming IRS ACA Reporting Deadlines:Deadline to distribute ACA 1095 recipient copies - March 1, 2024Deadline to e-file ACA forms - April 1, 2024 Since the enactment of the Affordable Care Act,ACA reportinghas evolved into a complex filing requirement for employers and health coverage providers, integral to IRS compliance.Beyond IRS ACA reporting, states like California, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island mandate employers to complete ACA reporting with State Agencies for residents in these states.ACAwise, a leadingACA reporting software , offers businesses a complete solution for IRS filing, State filing, and Employee Copy Distribution. ACAwise supports e-filing for current and prior tax years, providing a comprehensive reporting process to ease the burden of in-house reporting.ACAwise's Flexible ACA Reporting ServicesClients can choose from two reporting options, further customizable based on their specific needs.ACA Core Services: For employers with readily available information seeking a complete solution for form generation and E-filing with the IRS and the State.ACA Elite Services: For employers requiring a comprehensive reporting solution based on payroll, benefits, or employee census data, including form preparation with requiredACA codesandE-filing ACA Forms1095-B/CB with the IRS and State.Regardless of the service selected, ACAwise conducts data validations, ensuring accurate forms through validations using IRS Schema and Business Rules. TIN Matching is performed to verify social security numbers against the IRS database, addressing a leading cause of IRS form rejections.Recipient Copy Distribution Solution from ACAwiseIn addition to all of the above-mentioned services, ACAwise also offers add-on services. ACAwise also provides a simple yet comprehensive solution for recipient/employee copy distribution.Postal Mailing Services - Clients can let theACAwiseteam take on the responsibility of distributing recipient copies. All copies are printed and mailed from a SOC 2 Certified printing facility and USPS Validations are performed to ensure the copy is mailed to a verified address.Secure Online Access - In addition to or in lieu of postal mail, ACAwise clients can opt to give their employees/recipients access to their forms online via a secure portal. This enables recipients to access their forms anytime, from anywhere, eliminating the necessity to print and mail additional copies if the recipient loses theirs months or even years later.While not every state requires ACA reporting with their agency, there are a few that do, including California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington D.C., and Rhode Island. ACAwise supports the filing and distribution of ACA state forms. Additionally, ACAwise offers a State-only reporting option.Moreover, ACAwise provides a White Label Solution, allowing businesses to offerACA reporting servicesunder their own branding and design aesthetic.Addressing the approaching ACA deadlines, the CEO and Co-founder of SPAN Enterprises, (ACAwise's parent company), stated, "With limited time before the deadlines, our team is ready to assist businesses in meeting their reporting requirements. As IRS penalty rates rise, adhering to deadlines is crucial. We recommend contacting our team of experts as soon as possible for the 2023 tax year." For inquiries, contact ACAwise atsupport@ acawise.comor submit reporting requirements atacawise.com About ACAwiseCreated in response to the Affordable Care Act, ACAwise is a full-service reporting provider. The experienced team at ACAwise manages the ACA reporting needs for organizations of any size and scope. The ACAwise solution includes data validations, the generation and e-filing of accurate Forms 1094-B/C and1095-B /C with the IRS and state, complete ACA code generation, recipient copy distribution, past-year filing, and more.About SPAN EnterprisesBased in Rock Hill, South Carolina, SPAN Enterprises has been developing industry-leading software solutions for IRS e-filing and business management tools for over a decade.The SPAN Enterprises portfolio of products includesTaxBandits ,Tax990 ,ACAwise ,ExpressExtension ,123PayStubs , andTruckLogics .For any media inquiries, please contact Stephanie Glanville, Content Writer atstephanie@ spanenterprises.com SOURCE: ACAwise PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 16:16:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 518 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK) has partnered with ISAP India Foundation to modernize dairy farming in the water-scarce region of Antargaon in Wardha District, Maharashtra.The initiative - "Economic and Social Development of Indian Village Through Technology-Enabled Dairy Farming" - also involved collaboration with technology implementation partner eVerse.AI to implement the corporate social responsibility (CSR) project.India has the world's largest bovine population and is a leader in milk production. However, it faces challenges such as low milk-yield per animal and insufficient quality of milk products. The decentralized structure of dairy farming in India and limited awareness about scientific veterinary practices among rural farmers contribute to these issues.By partnering with ISAP India Foundation - a not-for-profit agency engaged in leading national-level livelihood promotion and agriculture marketing consultancy - Rockwell aims to improve livelihoods of dairy farmers in one of the most water-scarce areas of India by using innovative products and services that leverage digital technologies for livestock development through scientifically-proven veterinary practices.The initiative provides a suite of services to dairy farmers, including:Supplying Internet of Things (IoT) enabled collar devices for tracking vital health parameters of dairy animals; Providing mobile phone-based alerts and advice to farmers from veterinary experts; Use of muzzle-based biometric identification system to provide digital identity to animals along with 12-digit Pashu Aadhar; Use of eVerse.AI's newly launched CowGPT platform to provide accurate insights and advisory to dairy farmers about animal health, ration balancing advisory services, fodder development activities, supply of quality animal feed, village level animal health services, dairy farming extension programs (training, demos, expert visits), market integration activities for milk sale, and the creation of additional revenue sources for families of dairy farmers utilizing animal waste products.The project, which began in May 2023, has already yielded promising results. In a recent field visit to Antargaon, progress was shared with local dairy farmers through an interactive session. Farmers expressed positive feedback, citing a 15-20% increase in milk production within the last six months. Milk quality has also improved, helping them to achieve higher prices and increasing household income."We are thrilled that our CSR project at Antargaon, Maharashtra, is already showing early signs of success and providing tangible benefits to local farmers, and augmenting their incomes," said Dilip Sawhney, managing director, Rockwell Automation India. "We are confident that this project will continue to help the people of Antargaon to benefit from the technology-enabled scientific management of the health and reproductive cycles of their farm animals. Projects like this will eventually lead to improved incomes and better quality of life in rural communities throughout India." Learn more about other Rockwell Automation corporate social responsibility efforts in the company's 2023 Sustainability Report.A new CSR project aims to improve the livelihoods of dairy farmers in one of the most water-scarce areas of India by using innovative products and services that leverage digital technologies. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Rockwell Automation on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Rockwell AutomationWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/rockwell-automation Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Rockwell Automation BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 21. The Central Bank of the Russian Federation (CBRF) has revoked the license of QIWI Bank, Trend reports, referring to the Central Bank of the Russian Federation. "The Bank of Russia, by its order OD-266 dated February 21, 2024, revoked the license for banking operations from the credit organization QIWI [QIWI] Bank (Joint Stock Company) QIWI Bank (JSC) (reg. 2241, Moscow). The Bank of Russia made such a decision in accordance with paragraphs 6 and 6.1 of Part 1 of Article 20 of the Federal Law "On Banks and Banking Activities," guided by the fact that the Bank violated federal laws regulating banking activities as well as regulations of the Bank of Russia, in connection with which the regulator has applied measures to it five times in the last 12 months, including two times imposed restrictions on certain operations. In addition, numerous cases of opening QIWI-purses by the bank using personal data of individuals without their knowledge and conducting operations on them created significant risks for citizens," the statement of the Central Bank of Russia reads. The Russian media also note that the payment system Contact (owned by QIWI Group), whose operator is QIWI Bank, stopped working after the revocation of the license of the credit institution, as well as replenishment and transfers through QIWI-wallets. To note, the Contact system is used for money transfers abroad. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:04:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 397 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / KeyBankKeyBank and the KeyBank Foundation announced an investment of $500,000 in Pittsburgh's Neighborhood Allies to bolster the expansion of the organization's Financial Empowerment Center's (FEC) services throughout Allegheny County. This development marks a pivotal moment for the community-driven initiative in collaboration with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (ACDHS).The FEC, a beacon of support for individuals seeking financial stability, is set to embark on an exciting year with a formal partnership with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS). This collaboration between Neighborhood Allies and KeyBank signifies a strategic and significant leap forward, positioning the organization and its staff to enhance services and outreach."We are deeply grateful for KeyBank's generous grant, which reinforces our commitment to fostering economic mobility for our region's residents. This support underscores the collective effort to empower individuals to achieve greater financial stability and resilience, ultimately advancing toward our north star goal of moving 100,000 low-income Pittsburghers up the socio-economic ladder," said Presley Gillespie, President, and CEO of Neighborhood Allies."We are proud to support Neighborhood Allies in their expansion of the Financial Empowerment Center into Allegheny County," said Victor Laurenza, KeyBank Western Pennsylvania Market President. "Neighborhood Allies has demonstrated remarkable success in empowering individuals, and we are confident that this strategic initiative will further enhance their positive impact. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of the Financial Empowerment Center, creating lasting economic opportunities for the residents of Allegheny County." In the past 4+ years, the FEC has served over 2,200 residents in 7,500 sessions, resulting in 3,400 measurable outcomes. Notable achievements include 973 clients reducing delinquent accounts, 739 contributing to long-term savings, 547 clients raising their credit scores by at least 35 points, and 273 opening safe and affordable bank accounts. The total amount of savings built is $2.6 million, and the total amount of debt reduced is $6 million.Read more about KeyBank's support of Neighborhood Allies:KeyBank awards grant to Neighborhood Allies | Pittsburgh Business Times'A place where everyone has that opportunity': KeyBank Foundation gives Neighborhood Allies a $500,000 grant | Pittsburgh Post-GazetteKeyBank Supports Pittsburgh-Based Neighborhood Allies To Help Build Financial Stability | Yahoo FinanceKeyBank Foundation Provides Grant to Neighborhood Allies to Build Equitable Resilience | Neighborhood AlliesView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: KeyBankWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybank Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:16:39 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 397 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 BEACHWOOD, OH / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / In an effort to combat the rising tide of financial exploitation targeting senior citizens, Rosca Scarlato LLC, a senior investor advocacy law firm, has released a compelling and informative Guide titled "Recognizing and Preventing Elder Financial Abuse". This Guide is now available on the Investor Lawyers website, providing valuable insight into the vulnerabilities and risks faced by the elderly in today's increasingly complex financial world.Elder financial abuse has emerged as a critical issue as Baby Boomers across the country have started reaching retirement, with aging populations becoming prime targets for financial fraud and exploitation. The Guide delves into the factors that make senior citizens vulnerable, such as significant life savings, highly sophisticated investment scams, limited investment knowledge, and cognitive decline that often necessitates reliance on others for financial management."Our goal with this Guide is to shine a light on a problem that impacts more and more Americans and their loved ones, and provide actionable advice for both seniors and their caregivers," says Alan Rosca, a partner at Rosca Scarlato who often represents senior investors who are victims of elder financial abuse. "Awareness and education are key tools in the fight against elder financial abuse, and we are committed to empowering senior Americans and their caregivers with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and their loved ones." The Guide is not only a resource for the elderly but also serves as an educational tool for local governments who may play a role in protecting senior citizens against abuse, professionals who work with elder investors including estate and trust specialists, accountants, and investment advisors, as well as family members and caregivers. It outlines practical steps to identify red flags, implement safeguards, and take action against potential abuses.The senior investor advocates at Rosca Scarlato invite all interested parties to view and share this important resource. Together, we can work towards a safer financial environment for senior citizens.For more information and to access the presentation, visit the Recognizing and Preventing Elder Financial Abuse page. Visit https://investorlawyers.org for important disclosures about the firm and the attorneys. You can also contact them at:Rosca Scarlato LLC - 216-946-7070 / 888-998-0530Alan Rosca - arosca@ rscounsel.law Paul Scarlato - pscarlato@ rscounsel.law * This release may be deemed to include Attorney Advertising.SOURCE: Rosca Scarlato LLC PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:00:57 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 580 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Near triple-digit, year-over-year growth combined with an inaugural user conference sets foundation for unprecedented year aheadNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 /Optimal Dynamics, the pioneer in automated decision intelligence for transportation companies, today announced another strong year of performance. This follows the 215% (2022) and 174% (2021) sales growth the company experienced since officially launching its go-to-market efforts in 2021.Optimal Dynamics User Conference Rick Larkin, CIO of BCB Transport, shares fleet success stories at Optimal Dynamics User ConferenceFor the fiscal year ended January 31, 2024, the company reported the following:Net new bookings doubled year-over-year Average deal size grew 56% year-over-year Fully deployed customers grew 3xOptimal Dynamics has partnered with dozens of the industry's largest truckload carriers and boasts more than 16,000 trucks under contract. Every day, Optimal Dynamics is evaluating 12 billion possible decisions to generate over 100,000 optimal decisions for its customers. These recommendations are driving customers to experience double-digit increases in revenue per truck per week and mileage per truck, an unimaginable feat in an extremely tight freight economy.For CFO Scott Kenerly, the increase in operational scale is a byproduct of Optimal Dynamics' long-term strategic plan. "We've continued to invest in our data architecture and scalability, increasing our spend by 20% this year, which is driving consistent usage, faster deployments, and, ultimately, a more lucrative operation for customers," said Kenerly. "These capital investments are key to long-term success, and it's encouraging to witness the positive returns Optimal Dynamics and our customers are now generating from these initiatives." The company has continued to add new customers from enterprise and mid-market carriers to blue-chip 3PLs despite a historic downturn in the freight market. "Our sales growth and customer adoption are accelerating - we have experienced six consecutive months of steady customer acquisition," said co-founder and CEO, Daniel Powell. "Given the market we are in, it's truly a testament to the confidence our customers have placed in us to drive automation and efficiency throughout their operations." It was the right time to gather with customers at the company's inaugural user conference last week in Phoenix. This first meeting covered everything from embracing organizational change to a deep dive into how the Optimal Dynamics engine works to a focus on the innovative roadmap ahead. "Joining this user conference in the early stages of our partnership was invaluable. The access provided to the Optimal Dynamics team, from the c-suite to our dedicated support and deployment teams combined with learning from successful customers in an intimate environment, will set us up for success moving forward," shared Jason Porter, sales and strategy manager at Grand Island Express.To capitalize on this momentum, the company is launching a new series on LinkedIn Live called "The Road Ahead: How Decision Intelligence is Transforming Trucking" in which these topics and many more will be covered by internal data experts, customers, and partners.About Optimal DynamicsOptimal Dynamics is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art decision intelligence solutions to the transportation industry. The byproduct of 40 years of R&D at Princeton University, the company leverages its proprietary decision intelligence engine to deliver a comprehensive operating system to automate and optimize strategic and operational decisions for truckload operators. Optimal Dynamics is headquartered in New York City and is backed by marquee investors, including Bessemer Venture Partners, The Westly Group and Activate Capital. Learn more at www.optimaldynamics.com Contact Information:Erica FrankVP of Marketingefrank@ optimaldynamics.com 917-382-4431SOURCE: Optimal DynamicsView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 09:01:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 885 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Orosur Mining Inc. ("Orosur" or the "Company") (TSX-V:OMI)(AIM:OMI) is pleased to announce that further to the Company's announcement made on 15th February 2024, 16,949,152 new common shares of no par value in the Company (the "New Common Shares") have been admitted to trading on AIM today (the "Admission"), at a placing price of 0.0295 (CAD$0.0502).Following the issue of the New Common Shares, which will rank pari passu with the existing common shares of the Company, the total number of common shares issued and outstanding with voting rights in the Company will be 205,509,452.The figure of 205,509,452 common shares may therefore be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculation by which they may 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.For further details in relation to the placing, including the gross amount raised, and intended use of proceeds, please see the Company's press release from 15th February 2024.Issuance of WarrantsAs set out in the Company's announcement on 15th February 2024, the Company has also issued 16,949,152 warrants, exercisable at a price of US$0.0558 (CAD$0.0758 or 4.425p) with an expiry date of 21st February 2026. The warrants, which are unlisted, will be issued pursuant to a warrant indenture entered into by the Company under a deed poll constituted under English law. Warrant holders will receive certificates representing the warrants issued to them in due course.Broker FeesTurner Pope Investments (TPI) Ltd ("Turner Pope" or "TPI"), the Company's joint broker, received a fee of six (6) per cent. of the funds raised in the placing (30,000), a corporate finance fee of 30,000 which also covers its legal expenses, and will receive a commission of six (6) per cent. of the gross value received by the Company from the exercise of the warrants described above, if any are exercised during their two-year exercise period. TPI also received 1,694,915 broker warrants equal in number to ten per cent. of the New Common Shares, exercisable at the placing price at TPI's option at any time in the five years following Admission.For further information, visitwww.orosur.ca , follow on X @orosurm or please contact:Orosur Mining Inc Louis Castro, Chairman,Brad George, CEO info@ orosur.ca Tel: +1 (778) 373-0100SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP - Nomad & Broker Jeff Keating / Caroline Rowe / Kasia BrzozowskaTel: +44 (0) 20 3 470 0470Turner Pope Investments (TPI) Ltd - Joint Broker Andy Thacker/James PopeTel: +44 (0)20 3657 0050Flagstaff Communications Tim ThompsonMark EdwardsFergus Mellon orosur@ flagstaffcomms.com Tel: +44 (0)207 129 1474The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 ('MAR') which has been incorporated into UK law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. Upon the publication of this announcement via Regulatory Information Service ('RIS'), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.About Orosur Mining Inc.Orosur Mining Inc. (TSXV: OMI; AIM: OMI) is a minerals explorer and developer currently operating in Colombia, Argentina, Nigeria and Brazil.Forward Looking StatementsAll statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this news release constitute "forward looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to the "safe harbour" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based on expectations estimates and projections as of the date of this news release.Forward-looking statements and information include, without limitation, the use of net proceeds of the Placing, the progression of the Company's exploration plans in Colombia and the ability of the Company to conclude negotiations with the Company's partners in Colombia, as well as continuation of the business of the Company as a going concern and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. The Company's continuance as a going concern is dependent upon its ability to obtain adequate financing. These material uncertainties may cast significant doubt upon the Company's ability to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business and accordingly the appropriateness of the use of accounting principles applicable to a going concern. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties including, but not limited, those as described in the most recent MD&A's of the Company. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@ lseg.com or visit www.rns.com SOURCE: Orosur Mining Inc PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:23:35 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 880 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Roscan Gold Corporation ("Roscan" or the "Company") (TSX-V:ROS)(FSE:2OJ)(OTCQB:RCGCF) is pleased to announce that it has agreed to settle (the "Debt Settlement") an aggregate of USD$1,005,000 debt owed to an arm's length creditor through the issuance of a secured convertible promissory note (the "Note"). In addition, the Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to CAD$1,000,000 principal amount as a secured subordinated note for gross proceeds of up to CAD$1,000,000 (the "Offering").The Notes shall bear interest at 12% per annum from the date of issuance and shall mature on the date that is six months from the date of issuance (the "Maturity Date"). The Notes will be convertible, in whole or in part, into common shares (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company at a conversion price (the "Conversion Price") equal to CAD$0.11 per Common Share. The Note holders shall receive accrued and unpaid interest on the Note, paid in cash, up to, but excluding, the earlier of the date of conversion and the Maturity Date.The Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security ranking subordinate to the other secured indebtedness of the Company, over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company. The Notes issued pursuant to the Offering shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company ranking subordinate to the Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement and all other secured indebtedness of the Company.Closing of the Debt Settlement and the Offering are subject to customary closing conditions, including the consent of the secured creditor of the Company with respect to the grant of security, and approvals of applicable securities regulatory authorities, including the TSX Venture Exchange. It is expected that insiders of the Company will participate in the Offering for CAD$400,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes. Additional details regarding insider participation will be provided in subsequent press releases of the Company. All securities issued in connection with the Offering and the Debt Settlement will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation.This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.About RoscanRoscan Gold Corporation is a Canadian gold exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of gold properties in West Africa. The Company has assembled a significant land position of 100%-owned permits in an area of producing gold mines (including B2 Gold's Fekola Mine which lies in a contiguous property to the west of Kandiole), and major gold deposits, located both north and south of its Kandiole Project in West Mali.For further information, please contact:Nana Sangmuah President & CEOTel: (902) 832-5555Email: info@ Roscan.ca Forward Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com . Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including that all necessary governmental and regulatory approvals will be received as and when expected. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.SOURCE: Roscan Gold Corporation PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 19:30:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 466 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 WIXOM, MI / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Amid the recent restructuring efforts at Wayfair, including the layoff of 1,650 employees or 13% of its global workforce, Sanjeev Singh Sahni, leader of B2B business at Wayfair, has reaffirmed the company's dedication to excellence and innovation in the B2B e-commerce landscape. Despite these significant changes, Wayfair's commitment to leading the market remains unwavering.The decision to downsize comes in the wake of shifts in the post-pandemic market, as explained by CEO Niraj Shah. The surge in online shopping during 2020 saw Wayfair's sales reach an unprecedented $18 billion, necessitating a strategic recalibration to adapt to the normalized demand. "The reduction in our workforce, though a tough decision, is a strategic move towards ensuring our sustained future growth," Sahni remarked, highlighting that the layoffs are set to save the company an estimated $280 million annually.Despite the changes, Wayfair is looking forward with optimism, focusing on enhancing its platform to remain at the forefront of the B2B e-commerce. Sahni, with his deep experience in developing B2B commerce platforms, emphasized, "Our goal is to understand and meet our customer's needs, scaling a flexible and adaptable platform that positions us as leaders in B2B e-commerce for our categories." In addition to addressing the current market dynamics, Wayfair Professional ran itsTastemakers 2024 Design Awards , a competition that underscores the company's commitment to design excellence and innovation. The contest, open to legal residents of the United States and Canada (excluding Quebec), invited members of Wayfair's Professional Program to showcase their design projects for a chance to win several prizes, upto $5k in reward dollars, social media features, and more. Entries were invited from December 27, 2023, to January 12, 2024, with winners selected based on criteria such as quality, inspiration, creativity, and adherence to the award category descriptions. Winners of the contest will be announced on February 21, 2024.This initiative reflects Wayfair's dedication not just to high equality merchandize but also to fostering a community of design professionals who can contribute to the vibrancy and dynamism of home and commercial spaces. "Through the Tastemakers Design Awards, we aim to celebrate and spotlight the remarkable talent within our professional community, further enriching the design ecosystem," Sahni added.As Wayfair navigates through these times of change, the leadership and strategic vision of figures like Sanjeev Singh Sahni are pivotal. With initiatives like the Tastemakers 2024 Design Awards, Wayfair continues to champion innovation and excellence in the home goods e-commerce sector, reaffirming its commitment to both its customers and the broader design community.About Wayfair: A leading online retailer specializing in home goods, Wayfair is renowned for its extensive selection and innovative e-commerce platform, transforming the shopping experience for home products.Contact Information: [ Wayfair Professional ]Media Details Website URL: Wayfair.com Company Name: WayfairEmail address: BusinessQuestions@ wayfair.com SOURCE: Wayfair PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:02:43 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 504 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / SkywardRx, an innovative digital healthcare consulting company, today announced it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Victoria's Voice Foundation, a nonprofit providing evidence-based drug education and addiction prevention support for families. The collaboration will help accelerate the distribution of educational materials focused on drug prevention and the facilitation of widespread access to naloxone, the lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication.Underpinning this innovative alliance, SkywardRx will seamlessly integrate the Foundation's comprehensive educational training and naloxone awareness program into its multifaceted distribution channels. These channels encompass diverse avenues, such as the widely influential AbundaBox HealthPack initiative, their Hosptial 340B program, as well as various Direct-to-Consumer initiatives. The synergy between the two entities aims to create a robust network for disseminating vital information and resources to combat the opioid crisis."We are delighted to be collaborating with SkywardRx," said Jackie and David Siegel, Co-Founders of Victoria's Voice. "This will enable us to expand the reach of our programming significantly and save even more lives in the years to come." "SkywardRx is pleased to join forces with Victoria's Voice to champion drug education and awareness on a national scale," said Dave Rike, Co-Founder of SkywardRx. "Our ongoing initiatives are already set to reach millions of individuals and families in 2024 alone, and we are poised for even more substantial outreach with opportunities to provide education and awareness to over 10 million people in the early months of 2024."Throughout 2024, SkywardRx is rolling out a range of initiatives in partnership with school districts nationwide, aimed at addressing drug education, healthcare provisions, and food insecurity. These multifaceted programs are designed to provide students and their families across the country with access to innovative resources and services, facilitating the process of caring for their loved ones.About SkywardRx: SkywardRx stands as a leading healthcare consulting firm with a distinguished track record of collaboration with non-profits, hospitals, and Fortune 20 companies. At present, SkywardRx efficiently services over 1 million lives per month through its expansive distribution channels. The company projects an extraordinary impact, with a goal to service over 50 million lives in 2024. Co-founders Dave Rike and Alex Whitacre, both industry stalwarts with over 30 years of combined healthcare experience, bring a wealth of knowledge and success, having successfully built various healthcare enterprises throughout their careers. Their commitment to driving positive change in the healthcare landscape stands as the cornerstone of SkywardRx's mission.About Victoria's Voice Foundation: Victoria's Voice Foundation was established in 2019 by Jackie and David Siegel after losing their 18-year-old daughter to an accidental drug overdose. Victoria's Voice is dedicated to providing evidence-based drug education and addiction prevention support for families, including access to naloxone. Since its founding, Victoria's Voice has positively impacted more than one million parents and children through its education programs. Purchase naloxone without a prescription at https://vvf.innovascript.com . For more information about Victoria's Voice, visit www.victoriasvoice.org or @victoriasvoice.Contact InformationDave RikeCo-Founderdrike@ skywardrx.com 937-789-7201SOURCE: SkywardRxView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:01:16 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 747 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc., a leading mortgage lender, took center stage during the most watched Big Game Event on Sunday, 2/11, last week to introduce the revolutionary product, Angel Ai (see AngelAi.com) . This groundbreaking AI-powered platform marks a significant milestone in the mortgage industry, as it becomes the first-ever consumer-ready AI solution designed to assist everyday Americans in purchasing homes.NEW CITY, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Leveraging advanced artificial intelligence technology, Angel Ai empowers users with personalized guidance that carries a 100% trusted warrantyi and provides tailored recommendations and expert insights, all aimed at facilitating informed decisions throughout the homebuying process. With affordability calculators, loan applications can be completed in minutes and financial education questions can be answered in real time.AngelAi - Television Spot AngelAi - Frame still from the new television spotOne of the most notable features of Angel Ai is its ability to bridge the gap in homeownership rates among different ethnic groups. By utilizing AI, Angel Ai ensures a fair and unbiased approach to mortgage lending, eliminating discriminatory practices and promoting equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity."We were delighted and proud to unveil Angel Ai during the most-watched event in the nation and the second-most-viewed television event ever," said Pavan Agarwal, CEO of Sun West Mortgage Company. "With Angel Ai, we are not just introducing a new product; we are revolutionizing the way people buy homes. Our mission is to empower every American with the tools and resources they need to achieve their dream of homeownership, and Angel Ai is a significant step towards fulfilling that mission." Having already cut minority-homeowner loan decline rates by as much as half (see https://swmc.com/fairlending/) , Angel Ai's consumer-ready version marks a significant milestone in Sun West Mortgage Company's commitment to innovation and inclusivity. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, Angel Ai makes the homebuying process more accessible and transparent for individuals and families across the country.i 100% Trusted Disclaimer (English)When the loan application is submitted to Sun West, Sun West will (subject to the qualifications below) honor the guidance and decisions that Angel Ai provides during the loan origination process, provided that the information provided is complete, accurate, and the terms of the transaction and the borrower's financial and credit profile do not change from what was provided. All guidance and decisions of Angel Ai are subject to changes in market conditions, as well as changes to pricing, product terms, and guidelines which change from time to time and on a regular basis. You as the user of Angel Ai acknowledge that pricing and terms for financial products can change at any time and that no rate, product, or term is guaranteed until such time as the related financial product has been "locked" in the case of a mortgage loan, or otherwise confirmed in writing with respect to any other financial product.About Sun West Mortgage Company (NMLS ID 3277):At Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. we dedicate ourselves to offering an amazing experience to our customers. To accomplish this, we empower our loan officers so that they can find great rates and provide the most fitting loan options for each customer - at amazing speed. Our focus on technology has given us an edge in the mortgage industry to offer exceptional turn times so the customers can get into the home of their dreams sooner.We are committed to our core values of people, experience, technology, and product. Sun West was founded in 1980 with the perspective of "customers first" and the desire to make the mortgage process easy and stress-free for prospective homeowners. Since then, Sun West has been servicing a multi-billion-dollar loan portfolio and is licensed in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Our 43 years of experience has been passed down to everyone here at Sun West through excellent leadership and capabilities.For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org . Visit https://www.swmc.com/disclaimer for the full list of license information. Please refer to https://www.swmc.com/TXdis to view Texas Complaint Notice and Servicing Disclosure. In all jurisdictions, the principal (main) licensed location of Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. is 18303 Gridley Rd, Cerritos, CA 90703, Phone: (800) 453-7884.iVisit swmc.com/disclaimer for terms and limitations of the 100% Trusted Warranty.Contact InformationSophie MichaelsPR Managersophie@ inventus.media 914 309 8221SOURCE: Sun West Mortgage CompanyView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 17:16:48 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 800 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Yum! Brands: John H. - Designer, International DevelopmentTaco Bell blogFebruary in the U.S. is dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the history of Black Americans and celebrating their contributions to the economy, culture, arts and society. At Yum!, we are committed to making room for all people and voices at our tables, because we are most relevant when our people - at all levels - represent the customers and communities we serve.Black History Month started off as a one-week celebration founded by Carter G. Woodson in February 1926. Fifty years later, the week was extended into a month dedicated to honoring Black American history.This year's nationwide Black History Month's focus is African Americans and the Arts, detailing African American artistic and cultural movements.To celebrate our Black team members and these communities, we will share some of their stories. Get ready to be inspired, get involved and continue learning and celebrating the culture and achievements of the Black community.John H. (He/Him) - Designer, International DevelopmentJohn H., Designer, International Development, found his way to Southern California from Louisville, Kentucky, with his partner and two pups in 2021 after accepting a position with Taco Bell.Before moving to Los Angeles, John grew up in Kentucky for the most part. While obtaining his B.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Louisville and simultaneously creating artistic window displays for a local furniture store on the side, John discovered a passion for branded buildings."Creating window displays was the most fun and challenging work I did. Since I had to come up with the concept and have it viewed by the public, it taught me to endure through tough installations and self-critical thinking, while building my confidence for more demanding design tasks." It's no doubt that designing restaurants for Taco Bell's global markets is fitting for John. In his role, John works with franchise partners to achieve the best Taco Bell asset for their market, not only in terms of aesthetics, but also on digital accommodations, customer's dining experience and operations' efficiency."I find developing a physical reality representative of the brand's created self-perception to be some of the most exciting parts of my work. When doing this, I'm transferring customers into a Taco Bell reality, to which I hope can be more uplifting and colorful." John uses this same approach in his role as communications officer for Taco Bell's Business Employee Resource Group, Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S (Thriving African American Communities, Opportunities and Sponsorship) through the visual tools and newsletters he creates. Since joining Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S, John has furthered his connection with the Black community."Being a transplant to the area, Live Mas T.A.A.C.O.S has provided me with the opportunity to build a sense of community with some of my colleagues. It has also helped me feel impactful in the office by influencing the group's programming and outreach in the area. Being embraced and heard by those in this group has made my move to California easier." When it comes to Black History Month, John believes that this is a time to showcase the diverseness of the Black and African American culture within the nation, while also addressing generational trauma together."Black History month is an opportunity to reassure myself, my community, and our common identity of our appreciated existence. Being a Black man, who is bi-racial, in America can be a tiring and an exhausting experience. This includes anything from noticing how I enter a building, to how I walk behind someone, or to how I present myself. Having a dedicated month recognizing the community for what it offers to the nation provides a momentary sigh of relief." If he had to choose one person in Black history that inspires him, it would be Paul Revere Williams."During college, I had to research a historical figure on the same career path as I was pursuing. Although I'm not an architect, I had chosen Paul Revere Williams. His ability to focus on his life's mission, to create beautiful and outlasting buildings, while facing so many adversities, including not being able to enjoy some of the buildings he had designed due to his race, showed me that through determination and adaption anything could outlive racism." Be open-hearted and receptive to our perspectives. Be genuine and drop biases at the door. Stay present with us and be willing to learn and to have fun with life! View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Yum! Brands on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Yum! BrandsWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/yum-brands Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Yum! Brands PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 15:02:34 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 642 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ALMATY, KAZACHSTAN / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / The investment amount was 1 million USD, at a 98 million USD valuation. Draper Associates can increase its equity share in the company further.Mr. Tim Draper comments on the investment: "Citix can transform cities, bringing people together for events, alerting citizens about goings on, and even provide security, Wi-fi, and additional services call from a small footprint. Citix is for smart government." Citix projects itself as an innovator in urban technology and states its mission as redefining public space. The company combined solutions for smart cities and Ad Tech out-of-home in a single product and introduced a smartboard to the market - the first urban gadget. The smartboard collects and analyzes external data and streams relevant content - navigation, social, entertaining, and advertising.Citix offers an ecosystem of gadgets: a transport smartboard, Tom, a pedestrian one, Jerry, and a mobile one, Shark. They operate on their own software and hardware, using blockchain technology. Smartboards are linked to a common platform, Citix Panel, to manage content remotely.As envisioned by Citix, smartboards will become a new way of communication between the city, people, and businesses.The company has built a gadget network in Kazakhstan, grown into a local leader in the Digital Out-of-Home market, entered the markets of Turkey and MENA, and is currently developing in the USA.Tim Draper is the first US investor in Citix, known for his early investments in Tesla, Skype, SpaceX, Robinhood, and other technology projects. He took an interest in Citix during the Draper University Hero Training accelerator program. In 2023, Astana Hub, the technology park of IT startups in Central Asia, partnered with the program. The region's 15 best projects went to Silicon Valley for training, giving Citix an opportunity to work with Draper. This led to the first case of a Kazakhstan-based IT company attracting US investments.Bakhtiyar Kubessov, Citix co-founder & CBDO: "We couldn't be more inspired by our partnership with Tim Draper, such an experienced investor. His presence not only adds extra motivation to our team but also reaffirms the significance of our mission - redefining public space. With confidence and ambition, backed by Tim, we aim to enhance public spaces for all." Central Asia is now being promoted in the USA as a single region. For this purpose, the Silkroad Innovation Hub was opened in San Francisco, to build connections between the region and Silicon Valley and support talent from Kazakhstan and other Turkic countries. Citix is one of the leaders of the Hub, a graduate of Google for Startups and Draper University, and a successful participant of TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 with the "Best Speaker" award.Yana Shoibekova, Citix founder & CEO: "Central Asia has something to offer to the Silicon Valley investors and the international technology market. We are sure that interest in Citix will result in investment in other promising IT projects of this region".###About CitixCitix is a Kazakhstan-based technology company in the field of Smart City & AdTech, which develops urban gadgets and aims to reinvent public space by unlocking the digital potential of cities. Gadgets provide useful information, making the city more informative, safe and comfortable. To learn more, visitwww.citix.me About Draper AssociatesFounded in 1985 by Tim Draper, Draper Associates is the leader in early-stage venture capital that continues to invest in technology companies that show exceptional promise. The firm's investments have included Coinbase, Baidu, Tesla, Skype, SpaceX, Twitch, Hotmail, Focus Media, Robinhood, Carta, and other industry unicorns at the early stage. Draper Associates has built a reputation for encouraging entrepreneurs to drive their businesses to greatness, to transform industries with new technologies, and to build platforms for extraordinary growth, jobs and wealth creation. Send plans toplans@ draper.vc . To learn more, visitwww.draper.vc PR ContactsYelena Ogbonnay.ogbonna@citix.me+77054505829Leonid SOURCE: CITIX PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 16:15:57 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 455 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VALENCIA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / In a remarkable acknowledgment of innovation and excellence, VIP Toolkit has been honored with recognition from Tech Bullion for "Revolutionizing Business Efficiency in 2023." This accolade celebrates VIP Toolkit's commitment to empowering businesses with cutting-edge tools and exceptional service, setting a new standard in the industry.VIP Toolkit RecognitionEmpowering Businesses With Cutting-Edge ToolsVIP Toolkit has positioned itself as a leader in the digital transformation arena by providing businesses with advanced tools designed to streamline operations and enhance productivity. These tools, developed with precision and user-friendliness in mind, have been instrumental in automating processes, reducing manual errors, and enabling businesses to focus on strategic growth initiatives. The company's innovative software solutions and platforms have demonstrated tangible impacts on operational efficiency, making it a deserving recipient of this recognition.Exceptional Service That Sets a New StandardBeyond its technological advancements, VIP Toolkit has been recognized for its unparalleled customer service. The company's approach to client engagement is deeply rooted in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of each business it serves. This customer-centric mindset, combined with a proactive and responsive service model, ensures that businesses receive tailored solutions that precisely meet their needs. VIP Toolkit's dedication to fostering long-term partnerships with its clients is a testament to its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.A Testament to Dedication and Team CohesionThis recognition from Tech Bullion also highlights the dedication and team cohesion at the heart of VIP Toolkit's operations. The company's success is a direct result of the collaborative efforts of its talented team, who share a common vision of driving business efficiency through innovation. The team's ability to work seamlessly together, leveraging each member's strengths, has been critical in developing and delivering the cutting-edge tools and services that have now been recognized on this prestigious platform.Setting the Bar for Industry InnovationVIP Toolkit's receipt of the Tech Bullion recognition for "Revolutionizing Business Efficiency in 2023" is not just a milestone for the company but also a beacon for the industry. It underscores the importance of continuous innovation, customer-centric service, and the pursuit of excellence in today's competitive business environment. VIP Toolkit's achievements serve as an inspiration for others in the tech community, demonstrating the transformative impact of empowering businesses with the right tools and support.In conclusion, VIP Toolkit's recognition by Tech Bullion is a well-deserved accolade that celebrates the company's achievements in enhancing business efficiency through technology and service. As VIP Toolkit continues to innovate and lead by example, its contributions to the industry are sure to inspire further advancements, setting new benchmarks for success in the digital age.Contact Information:VIP ToolkitManagerinfo@ viptoolkit.io SOURCE: VIP ToolkitView the original press release on newswire.com PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 09:00:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1049 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 OXFORD, UK / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Digital clinical diagnostics and diabetes home testing provider Digostics revealed today the results from its ground-breaking gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remote screening collaboration with University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS), a partnership that saw expectant mothers in Hampshire become the first globally to access the gold standard oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) without needing to attend clinic.The initiative, first announced in April 2023 1, saw women assessed as at risk of developing GDM by their midwife issued with a GTT@home test kit from Digostics to undertake their OGTT at home. The service's introduction saw all women successfully tested in their target test week. Furthermore, 100% of mothers and maternity staff who responded to user surveys recommended GTT@home over traditional clinic-based testing.The implementation of GTT@home stemmed from an ambition by UHS to improve the quality of the test and to test in a more patient-focused way. Additionally, to enable testing to be undertaken more quickly so that treatment can be initiated sooner where required. Objectives also included reducing the number of antenatal appointments required, freeing up valuable resources and improving healthcare equity of access, particularly for at-risk patient groups.Improvements in test uptake, quality and reliability, earlier diagnoses and user satisfaction levels, when combined with a significant reduction in OGTT management workload for maternity services, have seen the implementation meet or exceed all agreed success criteria."We are constantly trying to balance the critical importance of OGTT provision with the significant human resource and administrative demands in-clinic OGTTs place on us as a busy team." said Rachel Hanley, Community Service Matron, UHS "GTT@home has demonstrated that there is finally another way, one that not only helps ensure prompt and timely access to GDM testing, but that frees up countless valuable midwifery staffing hours to be redirected to other essential antenatal and postnatal activity." Rachel Hanley, Community Service Matron, University Hospital SouthamptonUp to 20%2 of UK pregnancies are impacted by GDM, with background risk factors including age, ethnicity and body mass index.3 Undiagnosed or untreated, GDM can lead to pregnancy complications that warrant unscheduled or even emergency changes to the birth-plan to protect both mother and baby. GDM also confers an increased risk for both mother4 and child5 of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life and accurate diagnosis with a reliable test is therefore important.Prior to the implementation of GTT@home, undertaking an OGTT would require women to travel, while fasted, to a dedicated clinic on a specific date and spend over two hours at the hospital. The inconvenience the in-clinic test represents, especially for example for those with childcare pressures, means missed appointments and late tests are frequent. 97% of those using GTT@home found the ability to home test advantageous, with the same percentage welcoming the flexibility to choose which day they tested. 90% found the GTT@home test device easy to use, with no one finding it difficult to use."The contribution GTT@home has made to improving OGTT test patient empowerment, equity and accuracy will enable improved care for our patients when GDM is suspected and detected," said Dr Matthew Coleman, Consultant Obstetric Physician at UHS. "In equal parts we are excited that this revolutionary new at-home test is going to dramatically change the way we deliver GDM testing during antenatal care." Dr Matthew Coleman, Consultant Obstetric Physician, University Hospital SouthamptonIn a significant improvement from the in-clinic workflow, which typically sees blood samples only sent to the laboratory for analysis once the final test of the day has been completed, GTT@home ensures both blood tests associated with the OGTT - the initial fasting test and the two-hour test after consumption of a glucose drink - are analysed immediately at the point of testing. This eliminates the sample degradation that can occur between in-clinic blood sampling and laboratory analysis with the traditional OGTT.GTT@home Test KitAfter completing a test with GTT@home, the user can send their test data directly to their antenatal care team with a simple scan of a snap-off fob attached to the innovative test device using the GTT@home mobile app and the near field communication (NFC) functionality within their smartphone. Although users can send their test data via a prepaid envelope in the test kit, 98% elected to send their data via their smartphone, with their results available for review by their midwife much faster than could be achieved via the hospital laboratory."UHS' pilot implementation of GTT@home has shown that OGTT home testing is not just a viable alternative to in-clinic testing but a significantly more accessible way to screen women for diabetes and potentially improve test accuracy," said Professor Richard Holt, Professor in Diabetes and Endocrinology, University of Southampton.Prof. Richard Holt, Professor of Diabetes and Endocrinology, The University of SouthamptonAfter the successful pilot of GTT@home at UHS, NHS trusts and health boards nationwide are looking to introduce GTT@home for their pregnant women in 2024. UK-based Digostics is also setting up operations in the Middle East and Asia Pacific to meet the significant demand for GTT@home in these regions and aims to expand to Europe and the USA."The results achieved by UHS in having the vision to eliminate barriers to effective GDM screening by taking diabetes testing directly to the mum-to-be speak for themselves," said James Jackson, CEO and Founder of Digostics. "We congratulate our partners at UHS on the success of their GTT@home implementation and for breaking exciting new ground in both global diabetes innovation and women's health." James Jackson, CEO and Founder of Digostics and Inventor of GTT@home***Images of Matthew Coleman and of University Hospital Southampton's premises are kindly provided by University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust. Images of Richard Holt are kindly provided by the University of Southampton.About DigosticsFar too many people across the world are living with undiagnosed diabetes.UK-based Digostics' mission is to enable healthcare providers to identify everyone with diabetes, and those at risk of developing diabetes, by eliminating the common barriers that inhibit accurate and timely testing using the gold standard oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).Digostics is proud to offer GTT@home - the world's first home OGTT offering and the most a PR-Inside.com: 2024-02-21 22:00:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 787 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Millions of Americans live with schizophrenia, a complex and long misunderstood behavioral brain disorder. Yet, today's medical advancements offer not only effective treatment, but also the potential for early intervention and prevention.World-leading schizophrenia expert Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D. joins Joe and Terry Graedon onThe People's Pharmacy , a nationally-syndicated NPR co-sponsored radio show, to shed light on this long misunderstood, highly stigmatized brain disorder, which affects 3 million U.S. adults and 20 million people worldwide. The podcast episode of Show 1373: Malady of the Mind is now available onApple Podcasts ,Spotify ,iHeartRadio ,Google Podcastsand more.Renowned psychiatrist, clinical neuroscientist, and best-selling author, Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman's groundbreaking research on the neurobiology and pharmacology of behavioral brain disorders has advanced our understanding and treatment of mental illness, and pioneered a transformative strategy for the early detection and prevention of schizophrenia. His 2023 book, Malady of the Mind: Schizophrenia and the Path to Prevention, which has been heralded as "the most important book about schizophrenia in decades, and perhaps ever," will be released in paperback on April 23, 2024.During this important episode of The People's Pharmacy, Dr. Lieberman delves into key facets of schizophrenia, from its causation, to early signs and symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis, best treatment strategies, and more:Early Signs & Symptoms: Dr. Lieberman will explore the early signs of schizophrenia, helping listeners recognize potential indicators in themselves or loved ones.The Importance of Early Intervention: Schizophrenia is a progressive disease that can cause brain volume loss over time - but if caught early, proper medication can substantially reduce or even prevent the recurrence of symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Effective Treatment Model: Medication is essential for treating schizophrenia, but is not enough on its own. Dr. Lieberman explains the key components of the most effective treatment model, such as ongoing coordinated care and social services, empowering listeners to advocate for themselves or their loved ones. A Growing Concern: Dr. Lieberman sheds light on the rising prevalence of schizophrenia, both in the U.S. and globally, fueled by the growing availability and use of recreational drugs, particularly high-potency cannabis products, emphasizing the urgency of understanding and addressing the disease.Hope on the Horizon: Dr. Lieberman discusses the progress we've made in early detection, as well as the potential for preventive intervention amongst patients at clinical high risk of developing schizophrenia. This interview on The People's Pharmacy promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding schizophrenia, its impact, and the groundbreaking advancements offering hope for better diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, prevention.For more information about Dr. Lieberman and his work, please visitjeffreyliebermanmd.com About Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D.Over his 40-year career, world renowned psychiatrist and best-selling author Dr. Jeffrey A. Lieberman's groundbreaking research on the neurobiology and pharmacology of behavioral brain disorders has advanced our understanding and treatment of mental illness, and pioneered a transformative strategy for the early detection and prevention of schizophrenia. Dr. Lieberman is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and recipient of the Lieber Prize for Schizophrenia Research from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, the American Psychiatric Association's Adolf Meyer Award, and the Research Award from the National Alliance of Mental Illness, among others. A frequent public spokesperson on mental illness and psychiatry, Dr. Lieberman has contributed to health care policy and federal legislation - including the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act-to improve access and quality of mental health care while reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. He is the author of Malady of the Mind: Schizophrenia and the Path to Preventionand Shrinks: The Untold Story of Psychiatry, which became the basis for thefour-part PBS series, Mysteries of Mental Illness. To learn more, visitwww.jeffreyliebermanmd.com AboutThe People's Pharmacy with Joe and Terry GraedonProduced in the studios of WUNC North Carolina Public Radio, The People's Pharmacy is an NPR co-sponsored and nationally-syndicated radio show and podcast hosted by pharmacologist Joe Graedon and medical anthropologist Terry Graedon. Each week, the Graedons bring listeners the latest medical advances, and speak with leading experts about their research on health related topics, from vitamins, herbs, and home remedies to the pros and cons of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. The award-winning radio show is heard by 200,000 listeners on200 public radio stations nationwide . Find new episodes ofThe People's Pharmacy podcasteach week on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , iHeartRadio , Google Podcasts ,TuneIn , and more.The People's Pharmacyradio showairs Saturdays and Sundays at 7 a.m. ET. Find a local radio stationhereor listen to the live stream at wunc.org Contact:Tom La Vecchia, MBA M: 908-591-1490 press@ jeffreyliebermanmd.com SOURCE: Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) on Tuesday directed its members to immediately resume petroleum loading activities. The National President of NARTO, Othman Yusuf, gave the directive after a meeting held in Abuja. The meeting was attended by the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, with NARTO, oil marketers, and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, (NMDPRA) among others. NARTO had in a letter dated 15 February, addressed to the General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) and signed by its National President, Othman Yusuf, directed its members to withdraw their trucks from petroleum product loading activities with effect from Monday, 19 February. The association noted that the decision to withdraw its operation was due to the high operational costs in the industry. The association had recently raised concern over the high cost of diesel required to power its trucks for the transportation of petroleum products across the country. In its letter, the association said it can no longer continue in business within the context of the current economic situation in the country. Speaking on Tuesday, Mr Yusuf said the association has reached a meeting point with the oil marketers. I would like to confirm that we have reached some meeting points where we agreed with the marketers that are paying us. And they have proposed some additional freight rates. We agreed to suspend and withdraw the action and we commence operations immediately, Mr Yusuf said. Also speaking Mr Lokpobiri said all pertinent issues raised during the meeting have been diligently addressed, ensuring a mutually beneficial resolution. I want to announce to Nigerians that after consultation with all stakeholders, we have come to the conclusion that the strike has been called off. You see the president of NARTO here, we also have other stakeholders that are here. All the issues they raised have been addressed. I have also given a commitment on behalf of the government that going forward whatever the government expects to do will be done to keep our own commitment. And we have started paying some of the bridging claims that they raised yesterday and as we get more money, we will continue to pay them. We have also committed that in the next four weeks maximum by the middle of next month, we will have been done with a reconciliation so that we will be able to ascertain the level of liability and then prevail on those who are owing to pay up so that members who are supplying products across the country can also get properly compensated, he said. He also commended NARTOs leadership for their patriotism and commitment to the resolution. Once again I want to thank all of you for this level of patriotism and level of commitment that you have shown and the engagement will be sustained. Its imperative to reiterate that while this matter stemmed from commercial concerns, the governments intervention was necessary to avert impending hardship on the populace, he added. PREMIUM TIMES had reported how fuel queues returned to filling stations in Abuja on Monday, as the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) directed its members to withdraw services. A PREMIUM TIMES correspondent who visited petrol stations Monday morning found that some of the stations were shut while others were besieged by motorcyclists, tricycle owners, as well as private and commercial drivers. Many filling stations in Jabi, Wuse, Gwagwalada, Apo, Kubwa and Lugbe areas of the city sold the product at prices ranging from N660 to N680 while a litre of petrol was sold at N617 at the NNPC retail stations. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian government has blocked the online platforms of Binance and other crypto firms to avert what it considers continuous manipulation of the forex market and illicit movement of funds. Sources within the major telecommunication companies in the country told PREMIUM TIMES Wednesday evening that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) communicated the directive to telcos and they had started acting on it. Apart from Binance, other platforms such as Forextime, OctaFX, Crypto, FXTM, Coinbase, Kraken, among others, were equally blocked. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported Wednesday that the government was considering blocking the online platforms of Binance and other crypto firms as part of efforts to avert the free fall of the local currency. Presidency and regulatory sources said the government decided to move against Binance and other crypto firms following reports that currency speculators and money launderers were using them to execute criminal activities. Authorities believe the criminal activities going on on platforms are contributing significantly to the weakening of the naira. Binance, a digital assets platform, serves as a window for peer to peer transactions allowing users to advertise interest to sell or buy currencies of their choice. In September 2023, Nigerias Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) placed a disclaimer on Binance Nigeria Limited, saying the platform was neither registered nor regulated by the Commission and its operations in Nigeria are therefore illegal. Despite the warning by the regulatory agency, the firm continued its operation, attracting huge patronage especially among urban youths and suspected speculators and money launderers. Aside from suspicions of economic sabotage, officials also speak of national security concerns as the platforms are often patronised by other criminal groups including for payment of ransom. In its reaction earlier on Wednesday, Binance said users behaving in a manipulative way will be removed from its platform. As industry leaders, we are working hand in hand with local authorities, lawmakers, and regulators to ensure we act on non-compliance, the platform added, noting that it is setting an upper limit for ads, filtering and removing bad ads, requiring and raising deposits for merchants posting ads as well as processes for actioning against any market manipulators. On Tuesday, the Nigerian government announced that it was planning to raise $10bn to improve liquidity in the foreign exchange market. President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, disclosed this at the inaugural Public Wealth Management Conference in Abuja on Tuesday. At the core of this is ensuring optimal management of the assets and investments of the Federal Government towards unlocking their revenue potential. This includes our bold and achievable plan to double the GDP growth rate and significantly increase the GDP base over the next 8 years, Mr Shettima said. Meanwhile, the naira tumbled to an all-time low of N1,900 per dollar at the parallel market on Tuesday, amidst speculations and uncertainties about supply constraints in the markets. But at the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), the local unit appreciated slightly to N1,551.24. Earlier on Tuesday, the office of the National Security Adviser directed law enforcement agencies to take firm measures against anyone engaged in foreign exchange market speculation. In a concerted effort to safeguard Nigerias foreign exchange market and combat speculative activities, the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Central Bank of Nigeria are joining forces to address challenges impacting the nations economic stability, the office said in a statement. The CBNs proactive measures to stabilise the foreign exchange market and stimulate economic activities have been commendable. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives is being undermined by the activities of speculators, both domestic and international, operating through various channels, thereby exacerbating the depreciation of the Nigerian naira. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A 300-level student in the Nursing department of Harvarde College of Science, Business and Management Studies, Obada in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has died from an alleged suicide The victim, identified as Ajoke by her colleagues, reportedly took her life on learning that the Ogun State Government had sealed her department for offering a degree programme in Nursing sciences for six years without accreditation. An enforcement team comprising representatives of the Ogun State Ministry of Health and members of the State Nursing and Midwifery Committee (SNMC), had sealed the institutions nursing department for offering a degree programme in Nursing Sciences for six years without accreditation from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Speaking during the enforcement exercise earlier on Tuesday, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Kayode Oladehinde, stated that such unauthorised programmes contributed to quackery in the profession and posed a threat to the health of the populace. He said the Nursing Department of the institution would remain closed until it is fully accredited. Mr Oladehinde, who was represented by the Acting Director of Nursing Services, Serifat Aminu, described a degree in Nursing obtained from Harvarde College and similar institutions without NMCN accreditation as worthless. He explained that graduates from such schools would be denied license to practice in Nigeria and other parts of the world. We have discovered that many institutions, including Harvarde College, offer nursing degrees to unsuspecting students. Our mission is to clamp down on such institutions because they end up producing quacks in the Nursing profession. This is dangerous for society. Unfortunately, most students are unaware that their time is being wasted, he said. The official warned parents and candidates desiring to pursue nursing or related programmes to be wary of institutions making false claims by checking the NMCN website for an updated list of accredited institutions. He assured that the government would continue to checkmate quackery in the nursing profession. In a reaction, a 300-level student, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed shock at the institutions lack of accreditation, lamenting the amount of money her parents had spent on the programme. READ ALSO: Nigerian university students protest fees hike However, following Ajokes tragic death later in the day, which left the college community in mourning, the state government shut the college. PREMIUM TIMES learnt that Ajokes body was discovered in her off-campus hostel room. Her colleagues and other students said they suspect she consumed a poisonous substance. A colleague of the late student said the deceased had been in a state of despair for some time. For more than four months now, she had been depressed because of the fact that the course she was studying was not accredited. She used to think and complain because she claimed her parents used all the money they have to send her to the school. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Ebonyi State Ministry of Health on Wednesday said that Lassa fever had claimed 14 lives in the state. Hyacinth Ebenyi, the director of Public Health at the ministry, gave the figure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki. He said that the 14 cases were among the 29 confirmed cases of the disease recorded as of 20 February. Mr Ebenyi expressed concern that no fewer than 110 suspected cases of the disease were recently recorded in the state. Yes, there has been an increase in the cases of Lassa fever. The disease is really endemic in the state. It did not just start, it has been here, most times, during the dry season. So far, we have had suspected cases of 110, and out of this figure, we recorded 29 confirmed cases. Out of 29 cases, as of Tuesday, we lost 14 persons, the director said. He, however, called on the residents not to panic, giving the assurance that the state government was making efforts to stem the tide of the disease. Mr Ebenyi advised the state residents to be cautious about eating rats and making contact with their fluids. ALSO READ: Lassa Fever claims 10 lives in Ebonyi Lassa fever is a killer-disease. People should stop eating rat. Do not allow it to have any contact with your food, the director said. He listed the symptoms of the disease to include high fever, general body weakness and headaches. These signs progress within a short time, and if nothing is done, the affected person will start to bleed from the body openings until it affects the important organs of the body, and next will be death. Affected persons should go to hospital for treatment immediately, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has cautioned Abuja residents to pay their taxes and levies to designated AMAC accounts to avoid falling victim to fake revenue collectors. The Chairman of the Council, Christopher Maikalangu, gave the warning while addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday. He frowned at a situation where taxpayers in Abuja preferred to pay cash to fake agents and get a reduction instead of paying to the councils bank account for accountability. Mr Maikalangu emphasised that only taxpayers who presented bank tellers of their payment into the councils account would be accepted. The general public is hereby advised not to pay cash to any technical partner or their representatives to avoid falling victims of fake revenue collectors operating illegally within the Council. Except for daily ticketing and mobile advertisement, remember that when you pay cash, it is assumed that you have not paid at all and you will pay twice, he said. According to him, the collection of revenue is not as easy as many people imagined and that informed the setting up of a taskforce when he assumed office. In fact, we recorded good results in 2023, thats why I am relying on the task force to help in arresting revenue leakages abetted by fake revenue agents, he said. He urged residents to call mobile telephone numbers, 07055550346 and 07055550246 to confirm the authenticity and proper designated bank details before making any payment. After payment, your evidence of payment will be verified by AMAC task force, he added. Mr Maikalangu acknowledged that one of the major challenges he inherited upon assumption of office was fake revenue consultants. He commended the AMAC Revenue Task Force for its efforts in apprehending and prosecuting the perpetrators. Mr Maikalangu warned that any partner caught producing its own receipts and documents risks licence revocation and criminal prosecution. He added that measures were being implemented to collect revenues without resorting to force and eliminate revenue leakages. On his part, the Chairman of AMAC Revenue and Security Taskforce, Yunusa Yusuf, disclosed that the task force had arrested and prosecuted 68 illegal revenue agents. According to him, steps were also underway to digitise revenue payment in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The chairman has engaged ICT consultants to digitise our activities. Very soon, you will sit and get demand notice and we will be monitoring those who have paid and those who have not paid, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print In a resolute stance against the escalating crisis in Sudan, Senator Jim Risch, the ranking member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has issued a clarion call for action, urging the international community to confront the unfolding genocide in Darfur. With a firm resolve reminiscent of his past diplomatic endeavours, Mr Risch has emerged as a pivotal figure in the push for decisive intervention to address the atrocities ravaging the region. Twenty years ago, the U.S. Congress was the first body to recognize the genocide in Darfur committed by the government of Sudan and its proxy Janjaweed militia. Tragically, history repeats itself and now we must do the same, Mr Risch declared in a tweet on Tuesday, 13 February, underscoring the urgent need for concerted efforts to halt the bloodshed. Mr Rischs impassioned plea comes amid mounting concerns over the actions of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militia in Darfur, where non-Arab ethnic communities are facing systematic persecution and violence. As the most senior senator on the Republican side of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Mr Rischs words carry considerable weight, signaling bipartisan consensus on the need for swift and decisive action to address the crisis. In a joint resolution introduced with Senator Ben Cardin, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with Senators Tim Scott and Cory Booker, Mr Risch has called for the recognition of the atrocities committed by the RSF as acts of genocide. The resolution underscores the gravity of the situation in Sudan and emphasizes the imperative for international intervention to protect civilian lives and uphold human rights. Mr Rischs leadership on the issue has garnered bipartisan support, with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle rallying behind the call for action. His steadfast commitment to addressing the crisis in Sudan reflects a deep sense of moral responsibility and a dedication to advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives in the region. In addition to Mr Rischs efforts, Susan Stigant, Director of Africa Programs at the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP), has provided invaluable insights into the current state of affairs in Sudan. Ms Stigants expertise has shed light on the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for international assistance to alleviate the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians. Reports of active fighting and the immense human suffering caused by the conflict underscore the urgency of the situation in Sudan, Ms Stigant remarked, highlighting the critical need for greater international support for Sudanese-led humanitarian efforts. As the crisis continues to escalate, Ms Stigants expertise serves as a guiding beacon for policymakers and humanitarian organisations seeking to address the root causes of the conflict. Despite the challenges posed by external actors and the complexities of the conflict, Mr Risch remains undeterred in his pursuit of justice and accountability for the victims of genocide in Sudan. His unwavering leadership on the issue underscores the United States commitment to upholding human rights and promoting peace and stability in the region. As the international community grapples with the unfolding crisis in Sudan, Mr Rischs clarion call for action serves as a rallying cry for justice and compassion in the face of adversity. With his steadfast leadership and unwavering resolve, Mr Risch continues to champion the cause of peace and human dignity, reaffirming Americas role as a beacon of hope and solidarity in times of crisis. The U.S. Department of State has also weighed in on the situation in Sudan, expressing grave concerns over the atrocities being committed by the RSF and its allied militias. A State Department spokesperson emphasised the urgent need for the belligerents to respect international humanitarian law and human rights, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need. The choices of the SAF and the RSF have led to atrocities, a collapsing healthcare system, grave food insecurity, and the de facto partition of the Sudanese state, a State Department spokesperson told PREMIUM TIMES, underscoring the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for international action. Considering the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in Sudan, the international community must redouble its efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and provide vital humanitarian assistance to those in need. With Mr Rischs leadership and bipartisan support, there is hope that the United States and its allies will take decisive action to end the genocide in Darfur and bring about a lasting peace in Sudan. Patrick Youssef, the regional director for Africa at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has travelled to Sudan, including last November, where he engaged with representatives of the government and the Rapid Support Forces. Deeply concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, Mr Youssef has sounded the alarm, urging an immediate cessation of brutal, targeted attacks on civilians. His agency, the ICRC, has made impassioned pleas for an end to the violence, emphasizing the urgent need to protect civilians caught in the crossfire. Brutal, targeted attacks on civilians must stop, the ICRC statement previously reiterated, echoing the sentiments of many humanitarian organisations striving to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. Weapons bring power. But that power imposes a responsibility on the warring parties indeed, an obligation to respect and protect the civilian population, as required by international humanitarian law, says the ICRC statement. In the meantime, shedding light on critical aspects of the crisis in Sudan that have not received adequate attention in mainstream media reporting, is necessary. While much of the coverage has focused on the immediate humanitarian impact of the conflict and the efforts of key stakeholders to address it, there remain significant gaps in our understanding of the broader regional dynamics, the implications for peace and security, and the challenges of humanitarian access. These key outstanding aspects merit further exploration and should be brought to the forefront of the global conversation on Sudan to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the crisis and inform effective responses moving forward. Pearl Matibe is a Washington, DC-based White House Correspondent, and media commentator with expertise on U.S. foreign policy, and international security. You may follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe https://www.premiumtimesng.com/author/pearl Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu, on Tuesday, at the police headquarters in the state, paraded 11 suspected killers of a traditional ruler in the state. The victim, Patrick Ezugwu, the traditional ruler of Akutara, Adani Autonomous Community in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area of the state, was killed at about 9 p.m. on 24 December by some hoodlums. Mr Uzuegbu identified the suspects as Ikenna Okafor, 29; Charles Eze, 23; Amobi Okeke, 33; Chukwuma Agu 38; Emmanuel Udealor (a.k.a. Alhaji) 44; Friday Obeta, 21; Ekwe Ikechukwu, 35; Ugwu Osmond Osita, 49; Chukwuebuka Nzekwe, 25; Kingsley Aniche, 35, and Ikowa Isaiah, 29 all males. The police commissioner said Messrs Okafor and Eze were first arrested before they led police operatives to arrest others. He said apart from killing the monarch, the 11 suspects were also behind the kidnap of a politician in the state, Vitalis Nwankwo, alongside four others, who were released after payment of ransom. Mr Uzuegbu also paraded 72 others arrested for various crimes, ranging from kidnapping, car snatching, gun-running, and robbery. The police commissioner said the suspects were arrested in different operations between January and February 2024, adding that some of them had been convicted and sentenced by various courts while others would be arraigned after investigations. Several vehicles, mobile phones, vandalised cables, arms and ammunition were recovered from the suspects during the operations, according to the police. There is no doubt that the task of tackling the increasing security challenges in our society is daily becoming daunting. Nonetheless, the assurance I bring the way of the good people of Enugu State is that we will remain focused and unflinching in our commitment to enthrone a crime-free and peaceful environment for all and sundry to thrive in their legitimate enterprises, Mr Uzuegbu said. The police chief urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding, security conscious and continue to support the police, with credible and actionable security information to aid the fight against crimes. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The first major show dedicated to British watch brands is announced for March 2024 The Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers has announced the first exhibition dedicated to showcasing the work of its Trade members - British Watchmakers Day. The event is taking place on Saturday, 9 March 2024 at Lindley Hall (Royal Horticultural Halls) in Westminster. Since founding the Alliance weve welcomed over 90 trading British watch and clock companies to our community. Were enjoying a major resurgence of British watchmaking and its time for us to make a statement with an event which is dedicated to our member brands said Alistair Audsley, CEO of the Alliance. There are over 40 confirmed exhibitors already including: Accurist, Alkin, Arken, Backes&Strauss, Beaucroft, Brooklands, Boken, BVOR, Christopher Ward, Clemence, Duckworth Prestex, Elliot Brown, Escudo, Farer, Fears, Fink, Geckota, Great British Watch Company, Harold Pinchbeck, Helicon, IOTA, Isotope, MHD, Mr.Jones, Marloe, Monro, Nite, Nomadic, Omologato, Olivier Meylan, Pinion, Pompeak, Schofield, Sidereus, Sinclair Harding, Studio Underdog, Thomas James, Vertex, William Wood, Zero West and, in an exclusive first for the event, Roger W. Smith. Were delighted with how well the concept of British Watchmakers Day has been received by our members and we can promise watch lovers an exciting and packed day said Alistair. British Watchmakers' Day Alliance of British Watch & Clock Makers For collectors, the highlight of the event will be Special Edition watches created by exhibitors, exclusively available to guests at British Watchmakers Day. Alliance chairman, Roger W Smith, who has a famously lengthy waiting list for his ultra-rare watches will be creating a Series One watch available especially on British Watchmakers Day. Roger said; My hope is that British Watchmakers Day will become an annual event as we try to raise awareness of our sector around the world. I wanted to make clear just how much this event means to me and thats why Ive committed to build one of my own watches especially for the event. Mike France, Alliance co-founder and CEO of Christopher Ward has made a similar commitment. Were sure that Special Edition watches will be a focal point in what promises to be a historic day for British watchmaking. At Christopher Ward were making a special edition version of our Bel Canto watch, which has a global waiting list. With virtually all our confirmed exhibitors having committed to produce Special Editions exclusively for the day, were confident attendees will find watches that are perfect for every wrist and wallet size said Alistair Audsley, and thats no better demonstration of just how far the British watch sector has come along in recent years. Over the coming months, further details, newly confirmed exhibitors and special edition watches will be announced on the Alliances channels at www.britishwatchmakers.com or @britishwatchmakers on Instagram. A non-profit drawing on youth innovative power to advance sustainable development, NUDGE Initiative, has launched an advocacy project to promote blue economy in Nigeria. The blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ocean ecosystem. According to a statement by the group, the Blue Economy Youth Advocacy Project (BEYA Project) comes on the heels of the federal governments resolve to maximise Nigerias ocean and coastal resources for economic growth, with the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. A statement by the Blue Economy Youth Advocacy Project Lead, Shakir Akorede, said the sector has the full potential to rescue Nigeria from its current economic troubles, especially in the face of falling oil revenues amidst the global shift towards a zero-carbon world economy by 2050. Nigerias massive coastline of about 420 nautical miles, abundant marine resources, and an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles remain untapped opportunities for economic prosperity, he said. The wealth in and around the oceans, seas, coastal areas, and waterways can create over $70 billion in yearly revenue for the country in addition to millions of jobs, the statement said. However, the organisation noted that optimising ocean-based industries, such as marine fishing and processing, marine aquaculture, shipbuilding, maritime freight transport, maritime tourism, and renewable energy, requires enhanced labour, new technologies, creativity, and innovation. This is where the youth come in, Mr Akorede said. With about 70% of the country under 30 years old, young people are the key to unlocking the potential of the blue economy. Aside from demographic power, Nigerian youth are the countrys innovation powerhouse, a critical need to build a thriving blue economy. The BEYA Project, funded by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund, would engage the ministry and government agencies in the areas of policy development, stakeholder engagement, and blue advocacy, mainstreaming opportunities and viable career options for young people across the blue economy sub-sectors. It will in future organise hackathons to promote youth innovation for sustainable ocean development, blue economy startups, and innovative blue governance. As the BEYA Project explores avenues and advocates for investment in youth skills and entrepreneurship within the sector, it is also working on mainstreaming youth aspirations into the ministrys long, short, and medium-term plans to ensure that the youth are actively involved in the development of the blue economy in Nigeria. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has said that the $40 million organic fertilizer factory to be sited in the state by Turkey-based Alliance Group was capable of boosting employment, food production and agribusiness. Mr Oyebanji said the government would continue to woo investors to the state in the bid to position it as a major industrial and investment hub in the country. The governor disclosed this in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday during a meeting with officials of Istanbul, Turkey-based Alliance Group on plans to establish a $40 million organic fertilizer factory in the state. He affirmed the key role agriculture plays in the lives of the people, stressing that the only way out of the present economic doldrums is to increase and improve productivity. We came on board with the mantra of shared prosperity and continuity, and agriculture is so key for us as a people. We have challenges in the country today because of a lack of productivity because if people must prosper, they have to produce. Productivity is key to prosperity and government cannot be in the forefront of that, the only thing government can do is to look for serious private investors and partner with them to ensure productivity, the governor said. Speaking further, Mr Oyebanji said the state had put measures in place for ease of doing business and to safeguard investments in the state, adding that his administration would continue to strengthen and sustain partnerships on projects that are relevant to the development objectives of the government. Your concept of establishing an organic fertilizer factory in Ekiti state is a welcome development. And to drive our investment portfolio, we have the Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) headed by a professional. This is aimed at improving the ease of doing business in the state. On this, we have structures, we have institutions, we have laws that safeguard investments in this state. We will also ensure that all obstacles towards doing business are removed. We just played host to a team from the American Embassy, led by the Deputy Ambassador and Consul-General with an investor. They have gone to our agriculture processing zone; they want to invest in cassava. And weve been receiving serious investors in the state, I took your word when you said there is a need to accelerate, so, we are also ready to play along by providing all you will need to make the project succeed, he stated. Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Sidi Oso, said the organisation was identifying regions in Africa, particularly Nigeria, looking for states with economic prospects and potential for development in the area of investment. Mrs Oso, a professor, added that the organisation had concluded plans to set up an organic fertilizer factory in the state. While stressing that Ekiti has the necessary raw materials in the areas of water bodies and lakes to boost massive production of fertilizer, she commended the Governor for having a team of great professionals who investment-conscious. She expressed hope to have more partnerships with the state beyond the fertilizer production project. READ ALSO: Oyebanji reinstates 15 Ekiti Assembly staff fired by Fayemi Mrs Oso stressed that the project would bring in about $40 million aimed at unlocking employment and investment opportunities in the state. She said the investment is coming in as an agriculture-water-based fertiliser project, which would go beyond production to the level of marketing the product nationally and internationally. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The 2024 Abuja Doctor Maths Competition, which features mathematics competition, multiplication challenge and Chess, was hosted by Christabel Private School Wuye, Abuja, with over 20 Abuja schools making it to the grand finale. At the grand finale held over the weekend, the organisers of the event, led by Augustine Akhigbe, said the event is organised to provide learners in Abuja the exposure to competitions and make the children know that to win the prize money, You must rise above the resident competitions you have in your school. The competition is for those who want to be good in Mathematics, Multiplication and Chess. As you keep exposing yourself for contests, you will continually improve and overcome the challenges of speed and accuracy, preparing you as a future winner. He admonished everyone to see themselves as winners for getting to this stage of the competition but added that at this stage, only your speed and accuracy will keep you on top. At the end of the event, some learners went home with various amounts of cash prizes for being among the top three per category, he said. The winners At least six competition categories were held at the event: The Mathematics Junior Secondary, Mathematics Upper Primary Category, Mathematics Lower Primary Category, Multiplication Challenge Upper Primary / Junior Secondary Category, Multiplication Challenge Lower Primary, and Chess Under 15 Competition. Wisdom Ekom (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came first at the Mathematics Junior Secondary, Ojo Ronald (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came second while Davina Chukwurah Kamsi (Destiny Christian Academy) came third. For the Mathematics Upper Primary Category, Edionabasi Idongesit Nta-Wilson (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja), came first, Edrissa Omovbude (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came second. In contrast, Abdulsalam Abdulsalam (Doveland), came third. In the Mathematics Lower Primary Category, Ugochukwu Emesim (Funville Academy, Apo) came first, Ummulkhairi Jibirila (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came second, while the third position went to Alaya Yahaya (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) Chukwurah Emeka Joshua (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came first at the Multiplication Challenge Upper Primary / Juniour Secondary Category, Shonubi John De Great (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came second. In contrast, Chukwurah Kamsi Davina (Destiny Christian Academy), came third. In the Multiplication Challenge Lower Primary, Jemimah Ayeni (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came first, Ugochukwu Emesim (Funville Academy, Apo) came second, while Blessed Praise (Philos Int. Academy, Dutse Sokale, Abuja) came third. Charles Oro (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came first at the Chess Under 15 Competition, and Blossom Ekom (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came second. In contrast, Kelvin Ojo (Christabel Private School, Wuye Abuja) came third. The winner of the Junior Secondary category, Wisdom Ekom, said he was so happy to make it this time. He said the questions were tough, but he did his best to solve as many as possible within thirty minutes. Ronald Ojo, who came second, said he was very happy to get the cash prize, and this will encourage him to study more, Mr Akhigbe said, reflecting on their performance. Davina, the only girl among the top three mathematicians, said she was happy to come third and will work harder to prepare for the next competition next term. Jemimah Ayeni, who can be described as the biggest discovery of the competition, performed so well to the amazement of those in her category, as she doubled the point of the person who came second, he added. Doctor Maths Mathematical Competition is an event whose objective is to provide a platform to help Nigerian students discover their talent and potential. Apart from the prizes won, the competition organisers, in partnership with the Private School Teachers Union of Nigeria, issued certificates to the winners. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A bill seeking to establish the South-west Development Commission (SWDC) has passed second reading at the senate. The bill was sponsored by the senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel. It was read the second time in the Senate on Wednesday and referred to the Committee on Special Duties. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, subsequently directed the committee to report back to the Senate within four weeks. Mr Daniel, while leading a debate on the bill, said when the commission is established, it will be responsible for the management of funds allocated by the federal government for capital projects in the South-west region. This Bill essentially aims to establish a Commission for the South West region that will be charged with the responsibility amongst others, to receive and manage funds allocated by the Federal Government for the construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the region and the need to tackle the ecological problems and any other related environmental or developmental challenges in the South-west states and for related matters. The South-western part of Nigeria, made up of Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states, is a melting pot with all ethnic groups of Nigeria living in peace and harmony. These same coastal issues are affecting the riverine areas of Ondo and Ogun states as well, hence the need to holistically revamp the infrastructural and security deficits of the region, Mr Daniel, a former governor of Ogun State, said. The senator urged his colleagues to support passage of the bill and establishment of the Commission. Indeed, the great people of the South-west will be grateful to the 10th National Assembly under your able leadership if this laudable bill that will accelerate the development of the South-west is passed. The bill is divided into six parts (with 27 sections) and captured the following: i. Establishment of the South West Development Commission; ii. Functions of the Commission; iii. Structure of the Commission; iv. Staff of the Commission; v. Financial provisions; and vi. Miscellaneous provisions. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A day after the Nigerian government and major cement manufacturers in the country agreed to bring down the price of the product, a minister threatened the manufacturers that the government would allow massive importation of cement if the price was not reduced across the country. The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, issued the threat on Tuesday in Abuja at a meeting with Cement and Building Materials Manufacturers, the News Agency of Nigeria reports. PREMIUM TIMES reported that at a separate meeting on Monday, major cement manufacturers in Nigeria Dangote, BUA and Lafarge agreed that the price of a bag of cement will not exceed between N7,000 and N8,000. The resolution was reached following a meeting between the Minister of Works, David Umahi, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite as well as representatives of BUA Cement, Dangote Cement, Lafarge and Cement Producers Association on Monday. The price of a bag of cement, used for construction across Nigeria, has increased to about N13,000 in many parts of the country amidst a cost-of-living crisis that has led to spikes in the prices of goods and services across the country. While Nigerians wait to see if Mondays agreement with the cement manufacturers will be implemented, the government on Tuesday warned that it might open the borders for cement importation if manufacturers of the product fail to bring down the prices. Mr Dangiwa expressed concerns that in the past couple of months, the country had witnessed an alarming increase in the prices of cement and other building materials. Clearly, this is a crisis for housing delivery. An increase in essential building materials means an increase in the prices of houses, the minister said. We are not the only country facing these challenges, many countries are facing the same type of challenges that were facing, some even worse than that. But, as patriotic citizens, we have to rally round the country when there is crisis, to ensure that we do our best to save the situation, he said. Mr Dangiwa said the cement manufacturers are enjoying the benefits of government policies. The government stopped importation of cement in other to empower you to produce more and sell cheaper, he said. Otherwise the government can open the borders for mass importation of cement, the price will crash, but you will have no business to do. He said the reasons given by cement manufacturers for the price increase the high cost of gas and manufacturing equipment were not enough for such astronomical pricing. While cement manufacturers can control the prices they sell the product, wholesalers and retailers often, arguably based on their operational costs, sell at prices of their choosing. Mr Dangiwa, however, said the government wants the manufacturers to compel the wholesalers and retailers to sell at fixed prices. He expressed his displeasure at the position of the Cement Manufacturer Association of Nigeria (CEMAN) that the association does not interfere with the pricing of cement. He said the association should not just fold its arms when things were going wrong. One person cannot be selling at N3500 per bag and another selling at N7000 per bag and you cannot call them to order, he said. The association is expected to monitor price control, otherwise the association has no need to exist. Earlier, the Executive Secretary of CEMAN, Salako James, said the housing policy of the administration of President Bola Tinubu was laudable and every responsible Nigerian has to key into it. He, however, identified some areas of concern and appealed to the government to look into them to tackle the issue of cement pricing. Mr Salako identified the challenges of gas supply to heavy users like the cement industry and urged the government to create a window whereby gas will be bought with Naira instead of dollars. He also complained about the distribution channel, stressing that there was a great difference between the price from the manufacturers and the market price. He, therefore called for government intervention to help stabilise the situation and bring sanity to the economy. At the end of the meeting, the minister directed that a committee should be constituted to review the situation and come out with implementable resolutions that would benefit the common Nigerian. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the three major cement producers, Dangote Plc, BUA Plc and Lafarge Plc were represented as well as other industry stakeholders. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip failed in the UN Security Council on Tuesday after the US again vetoed the text tabled by Council member Algeria. Given concerns about a possible major Israeli offensive on the crowded city of Rafah in southern Gaza, the proposal was widely supported by 13 of the 15 council members. Britain abstained. Following the vote, Israel again strongly rejected calls for a truce. This absurd notion of a ceasefire was constantly being thrown around within the Security Council and the UN General Assembly as if it was a silver bullet, a magical solution to all of the regions problems, Israels ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, told the most powerful UN body. A ceasefire today means immunity for baby killers and rapists. Its an easy way to make this problem an issue for another day, he said. Hamas is not going to even read your resolutions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that his country was determined not to be deterred by criticism of how it was handling the war in the Gaza Strip. There is considerable pressure on Israel at home and abroad to stop the war before we achieve all of its goals, Netanyahu said during a visit to troops near the border with Gaza on Tuesday. There is no pressure, none, that can change this we are not prepared to pay any price, certainly not the delusional prices that Hamas is demanding of us. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield had declared ahead of time that the US would once again use its veto power in the Security Council should a vote be held. The five permanent members of the most powerful UN body, the US, China, Russia, France, and Britain, all have the power to do so. The US said it wanted to prevent a vote in order not to jeopardise important negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian extremist organisation Hamas, which along with other Islamist groups attacked Israel on Oct. 7 and killed over 1,200 people. We believe that the resolution on the table right now would, in fact, negatively impact those negotiations. Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel, Thomas-Greenfield said before the vote in reference to talks mainly about freeing hostages. Sometimes hard diplomacy takes more time than any of us might like. Believe me, I understand the desire for the Council to act urgently to positively shape the situation in line with the Security Councils mandate. The veto was seen by observers as a complicated ploy by Washington as it does not want to be seen as an enabler of the Jewish states war tactics, which have increasingly come in for international criticism as the Gaza Health Authority figures confirm 29,195 Palestinians have been killed during the Israeli military campaign in Gaza so far. In recent months, the US has already used three vetoes to protect Israel from Security Council resolutions. Security Council resolutions are binding under international law. If countries defy them, the Council can impose sanctions and, in extreme cases, even consider military intervention but this is highly unlikely in the case of Israel. According to a high-ranking Security Council representative, the negotiations this time on the veto became much more emotional behind closed doors. The US would have to take responsibility for everything that happens afterwards, added the official, who asked to remain anonymous. If Rafah happens, there is no going back. Around 1.5 million Gazans are crowded into Rafah, the southernmost city that sits on the border with Egypt. The Israeli government has been preparing to launch a full-scale ground offensive into the city despite international fears it will lead to massive civilian casualties. Israel says the operation is necessary to eliminate remaining Hamas fighters that are sheltering there as well as to free hostages that were abducted from Israel on 7 October. Israeli war Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz on Sunday said The world must know, and Hamas leaders must know if by Ramadan our hostages are not home, the fighting will continue to the Rafah area. However, it is uncertain whether international mediators will be able to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages by the start of the Muslim fasting month on 10 March. (dpa/NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print On Tuesday, 13 February, a Washington, D.C. insider told PREMIUM TIMES, The United States Government views South Africa as one of the most important and significant states on the African continent. South Africa has been one of Americas strongest trading partners in Africa, said the expert with substantial and intricate expertise honed over the years in the US capital, and elaborated further, South Africa has been one of the largest beneficiaries of AGOA, the African Growth and Opportunity Act, the single most important trade relationship agreement that Africa and the United States share together. Now, in the realm of international diplomacy, the bond between the United States and South Africa holds a pivotal place, marked by shared history, mutual interests, and enduring ties. The dynamics between nation-states often undergo scrutiny and evaluation, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of international affairs. Yet, recent developments, including the introduction of the U.S.-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act, H.R.7256, by U.S. Congressman John James, co-sponsored by U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz, H.R.7256 has sparked discussions within the media, among policy analysts, the general public, and raised questions about the trajectory of the longstanding relationship between the United States and South Africa. As stakeholders and observers dissect the implications of the proposed legislation, it becomes imperative to dispel misinformation, correct misconceptions, and foster a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play. At the forefront of the discussion stands Congressman John James, whose advocacy for a comprehensive review of U.S.-South Africa relations has garnered attention and scrutiny. With H.R.7256, Rep. James aims to address concerns over South Africas perceived alignment with US adversarial powers, like China and Russia, and its potential implications for U.S. interests. In his statements, Rep. James wants transparency, accountability, and strategic reassessment which he has said is to safeguard Americas national security and sovereignty. Against this backdrop, voices from the U.S. Department of State and independent experts have emerged to shed light on the current intricacies, amid varying media reports. It is essential to recognise that the proposed legislation is not a condemnation of South Africa but rather a call for dialogue and examination of shared interests. At the centre lies a fundamental question: How will the proposed bill impact the strategic interests and diplomatic engagements between the U.S. and South Africa? For this answer, we can rely on experts. Experts are individuals found in various domains, such as science, technology, medicine, law, finance, arts, sports, and many other fields. Their expertise is often sought after for consultation, decision-making, teaching, research, or problem-solving within their specialised area. Through their legitimate and thorough understanding, they can synthesise the importance of the U.S.-South Africa relationship, and how it is perceived within the broader context of U.S. foreign policy. An expert with understanding stemming from extensive experience working on the U.S.-South Africa issues and policies in the D.C. circles of power, told PREMIUM TIMES, The US does not measure its relationship with Brazil and India through its relationship or overarching relationship with strategy towards the BRICs. It doesnt do that with South Africa, either emphasising the nuanced approach taken by the U.S. in assessing its relationships. The U.S. does not measure its relationship with South Africa based on South Africas engagement with the BRICSIt looks at the relationship on a bilateral basis. Contrary to misconceptions, the U.S. Department of State and the South African government reaffirm the enduring nature of their bilateral relationship, grounded in mutual respect, cooperation, and common objectives. While as a general matter, the U.S. Department of State does not comment on pending legislation in Congress, on 11 February, a State Department spokesperson, emphasised the enduring ties between the U.S. and South Africa and the multifaceted nature of U.S.-South Africa ties. Similarly, a well-placed source within the South African government highlights the ongoing engagement and collaboration between the two countries, underscoring their commitment to shared prosperity and stability. We have a strong relationship with South Africa and that relationship is based on the priorities of the American people and the South African people, said a State Department spokesperson. And added, We are committed to an affirmative agenda through which we work together to bring our nations respective priorities to the table. These include issues of global peace and security, robust bilateral trade, shared health goals, and developing renewable energy sources to address climate change and provide reliable power. The South African Government, maintaining its focus on constructive engagement with the United States, has refrained from issuing comments on the draft resolution or media speculation. Instead, it underscores the significance of sustained dialogue with U.S. officials, emphasising the vital bilateral relationship between the two nations. According to a well-placed source with substantial expertise on the matter, these efforts are integral to advancing the shared interests of South African and U.S. citizens. Ralph E. Winnie, Jr., Director of the China Program and Vice President of The Eurasian Business Coalitions Global Business Development, highlighted the historical significance of U.S.-South Africa relations. He remarked, The relationship is a very dynamic one Weve always had a close relationship. Amidst the discourse surrounding H.R.7256, it is crucial to address misperceptions and promote accurate information about the U.S.-South Africa relationship. While concerns over strategic alignments and national security interests may be valid, it is essential to approach these issues with nuance, context, and a commitment to dialogue. By dispelling misconceptions and fostering mutual understanding, stakeholders can build a foundation for constructive engagement and cooperation. As the debate unfolds, it is essential to recognise the broader strategic imperatives and long-term objectives that underpin U.S.-South Africa relations. Beyond legislative initiatives, the relationship between the two countries is shaped by historical ties, shared values, and common aspirations. By acknowledging these fundamental truths and embracing a spirit of partnership and collaboration, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of international diplomacy and work towards a future of shared prosperity and mutual respect. These elements are underscored by the Washington insider and Dr. Winnie. The introduction of H.R.7256 offers an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue, dispel misinformation, and strengthen the bonds of friendship between the United States and South Africa. By promoting accurate information, fostering mutual understanding, and embracing a spirit of cooperation, stakeholders can chart a path forward that advances shared interests, promotes stability, and strengthens lasting linkages between the American and South African people. As policymakers and analysts assess the implications of proposed legislation, the fundamental bonds between the United States and South Africa endure, rooted in a shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and progress. Through continued dialogue and collaboration, both countries seek to strengthen their partnership, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities for mutual benefit on the global stage, as explained by experts with substantial experience on bilateral and strategic relations honed in over many years in Washington. Pearl Matibe is a Washington, DC-based White House Correspondent, and media commentator with expertise on U.S. foreign policy, and international security. You may follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-east zone has asked the National Working Committee (NWC) and other organs of the PDP to ratify Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the partys national secretary, in line with the zones decision and a valid court order. There has been an intense contest about who is the authentic national secretary of the PDP, between Samuel Anyanwu and a former PDP National Youth Leader, Mr Ude-Okoye. How it started Mr Anyanwu, the substantive occupant of the position, stepped aside to contest in the 11 November Imo State governorship election on the PDP platform but lost to the incumbent governor, Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress. He did not, however, submit a letter of resignation for the national secretary position of the party. Meanwhile, in October 2023, some weeks before the Imo election, the leadership of the PDP in the South-east nominated Mr Ude-Okoye to replace Mr Anyanwu as the partys national secretary. PREMIUM TIMES reports that the position of the national secretary was zoned to the South-east by the PDP in 2021 ahead of the partys national convention on 30 October of that year. In the heat of the debate, a High Court in Enugu State, in October 2023, ordered the PDP to replace Mr Anyanwu as the partys national secretary with Mr Ude-Okoye. The suit was filed by the former PDP national youth leader. The PDPs NWC had countered the order in a motion filed on 24 October 2023. In the motion, the NWC asked the court to set aside the order, arguing that it was obtained by fraud and suppression of material facts and also faulted the order for not being specific as to what position Mr Udeh-Okoye should fill. In another twist, earlier in January 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja declared Mr Anyanwu as the valid national secretary of the PDP. The judge, Inyang Ekwo, also restrained the national leadership of the PDP from appointing any person as its acting national secretary until the expiration of Mr Anyanwus four-year tenure on 9 December 2025, as enshrined in the partys constitution. South-east PDP insists on Udeh-Okoye In a communique issued at the end of its Zonal Executive Committee meeting in Enugu on Tuesday, the PDP leaders accused the partys national leadership of mistreating the zone by neglecting their earlier nomination. They insisted that they would no longer tolerate the delay in ratification of Mr Udeh-Okoye as the partys national secretary. The meeting was headed by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State alongside PDP National Vice Chairperson (South-east), Ali Odefa. We have carried the banner of PDP in the South-east with great pride. So, when we have come together, as a people on a matter that affects us as PDP members in the South-east and a decision is taken in line with our partys constitution and the electoral guidelines, I think it would be a mistake if that position is disrespected, Mr Mbah said in his opening speech, apparently referring to the earlier nomination of Mr Udeh-Okoye as the partys national secretary. The Chairperson of the PDPs Board of Trustees, Adolphus Wabara, who attended the meeting, said he was pained that the national leadership of the party had treated the South-east zone of the party with levity. The PDP National Vice Chairperson (South-east), Mr Odefa, would later read out the communique at the end of the meeting. The meeting reiterated and reconfirmed its decisions in its earlier meeting held on 20th October 2023, which asked Senator Samuel Anyanwu to stop parading himself as the national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as he has relinquished the office by virtue of the constitution of the PDP, which has been upheld by a court of competent jurisdiction, he said. The meeting affirmed the nomination of S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye as his replacement for the national secretary of the party, to serve out the remainder of his term, in accordance with the partys constitution. In the communique, the PDP leaders, citing Section 47 of the partys constitution, argued that Mr Anyanwu had automatically resigned his position as the national secretary by picking the partys ticket to contest for the Imo State Governorship election held in November last year. Not only did Senator Anyanwu purchase the Expression of Interest Form, he also bought the Nomination Form, contested the primaries, and became the PDP governorship candidate in the Imo State Governorship election that was held last year. Even though his resignation was automatic, based on the constitution and guidelines of PDP and the operation of law, Senator Anyanwu promised the leaders of the Southeast Zone of the Party and the PDP Governors Forum that he would formally resign before the Imo State elections, the party leaders said. They added that a High Court in Enugu State had already ruled against Mr Anyanwu and ordered that Mr Udeh-Okoye be recognised as the national secretary of the Party. They also contended that the Federal High Court, Abuja which later ruled Mr Anyanwu should remain the national secretary was obtained per curiam and in abuse of court process, given that the High Court ruling in Enugu came first, and both courts are of coordinate jurisdiction. Finally, we enjoin the NWC of the party, the PDP Governors Forum, the PDP Board of Trustees, the PDP National Assembly Caucus and all organs and stakeholders of the party, to recognise S.K.E Udeh-Okoye as the authentic national secretary of the PDP. This is in line with the constitution of the party and the practice of the party, which was recently accorded to the South-south (National Woman Leader) and South-west (National Vice-Chairman, South-west) zones of the party on the matter of the replacement of the party leadership following a vacancy, the party leaders in the South-east maintained. We strongly believe as loyal party members that it is in the interest of the party to uphold the nomination of the zone to forestall external forces cashing in to destabilise the party. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The junta in Guinea has dissolved the interim government in the West African country saying it will appoint a new administration, Aljazeera reported. The presidencys secretary-general Amara Camara, in a video released late on Monday, said directors of the cabinet, secretary generals and their deputies would be in charge until a new government was formed. The junta also instructed security agencies to seal all the countrys borders until government ministries have been fully handed over to the junta. The dissolved government was led by Bernard Goumou, who was appointed prime minister by coup leader Mamady Doumbouya, BBC reports. No reasons were given for the dissolution of the government. The military seized power in 2022 promising to hand over to a civilian government by the end of 2024. The military first took power in 2021, deposing the countrys first democratically elected president, Alpha Conde, who sought to take a third term. This is happening at a critical time in West Africas history marked by coups and withdrawals from the subregional bloc, ECOWAS. The coups have received widespread condemnation from the international community. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Given the prevailing economic realities in the country, the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is set to announce some key policy changes to improve the welfare of residents. In a tweet on his official X handle on Wednesday, Mr Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the plans would be unfolded during a live media chat on Thursday, 22 February by 11:15 am. The Governors media chat with journalists will air live on Channels TV, Arise, TVC, and LTV. It will also be live on Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1 FM and Eko FM 89.7. Dear Lagosians, as we navigate the unique economic realities in the country, it is important as the chief economic and security officer of our state to share some key policy changes for the welfare of all Lagosians, he said. The Governor added that the discussion will range from enhancing food security to bolstering health and infrastructure, these steps reflect our commitment to your welfare . In navigating these times, resilience, creative thinking, and safety are paramount. Your steadfastness is appreciated as we work together for a stronger Lagos and Nigeria, he added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, together with the authorities of Malmo, Sweden, have revealed how they will host hundreds of thousands of Euro fans this May. The 350,000-strong city is already preparing to set up stages, coming up with programs for guests, "musical surprises" and performances. ADVERTISIMENT Fans of the song contest will have not only the stadium but the entire street at their disposal. More details about the organization of leisure activities are available on the Eurovision Song Contest website. A large-scale fan zone - the Eurovision Village - will be set up in Folkets Park, which can be reached by public transport, bicycle or on foot. The convenient location will allow tourists to get to the main stage without obstacles and traffic jams. "We in Malmo hope to welcome hundreds of thousands of guests and organize this collective celebration together. It is time to showcase our creative and bold city," said Karin Karlsson, Managing Director of City Host Event. ADVERTISIMENT For guests' leisure, stationary stages and mobile venues will be set up, where artists in various genres will perform. The park will turn into a meeting place for Eurovision fans, where they will be able to share their common passion from May 4 to 11. In late spring, when the trees and flowers bloom, it will be especially beautiful. In addition to the stages, several areas for active recreation and socializing will be built in the Village, and cultural and food establishments in the park will prepare their programs. But that's not all. In addition to the Eurovision Village, fans of the annual show will have a whole street dedicated to the contest. ADVERTISIMENT It will become not only a route through the host city, but also a place to meet and talk to residents, have a snack in themed restaurants and spend a few warm evenings. "As you walk down the street, you will encounter musical surprises and food from all over the city and the world," the website announced. One of the main locations of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 will be the Malmo Live congress and concert hall, where the Turquoise Carpet and Euroclub will be held. Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that recently it became known where the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2024 will be held. Although the French representative won last year, the show will be organized in another European country. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The World Health Organisation(WHO) has raised the alarm over what it described as the rapid spread of measles globally, noting a 79 per cent increase from 2022. In a press conference Tuesday, the WHO Technical Adviser on Measles and Rubella, Natasha Crowcroft, attributed the surge in cases and deaths from measles to the backsliding immunisation coverage. Ms Crowcroft said experts are extremely concerned over the increasing cases and deaths, adding that measles cases are dramatically under-reported. She warned that more than half of all countries globally are considered at high risk for measles outbreaks by year-end, highlighting an estimated 142 million children susceptible to the disease. In 2022, the number of deaths increased by 43 per cent, according to our models, to more than 130,000 deaths occurring from measles, Ms Crowcroft said. Given the growing case numbers, we would anticipate an increase in deaths in 2023 as well. Measles is a highly contagious disease that is caused by a virus that attacks mainly children. The most serious complications include blindness, brain swelling, diarrhoea, and severe respiratory. More details According to Ms Crowcroft, at least 95 per cent vaccination is required to prevent outbreaks, but global rates have fallen to 83 per cent. She explained that the distribution of cases is marked by significant inequity, particularly in deaths. Ms Crowcroft underscored that 92 per cent of children succumbing to measles reside in less than a quarter of the global population, mainly in very low-income countries. While the highly contagious virus that causes rash was officially declared eliminated in the US more than 20 years ago, new outbreaks of the disease have continued to pop up in the country. Meanwhile, the Public Health Agency on Tuesday also confirmed the first case of measles in Northern Ireland in seven years as cases have been rising across Great Britain and Ireland in recent weeks. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerias anti-corruption agency, EFCC, has declared Leno Laitan Adesanya, a promoter of Sunrise Power and Transmission Ltd, wanted over his alleged role in the $6 billion Mambilla hydropower contract. The EFCC posted the notice declaring Mr Adesanya wanted on its verified Facebook page on Wednesday. In the publication signed by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the commission urged members of the public to volunteer useful information about Mr Adesanyas whereabouts. Mr Adesanya, 66, hails from Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State. Background In January, the EFCC arraigned a former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye, on corruption charges concerning the failed multi-billion-dollar Mambilla Hydropower project. In one of the seven counts filed by the anti-graft agency, it accused Mr Agunloye of awarding a contract in May 2003 for the construction of 3,960 megawatts (mw) Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Station on a Build, Operate and Transfer basis without any budgetary provision, approval and cash backing. The commission said the award of the contract to Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited (SPTCL) constituted an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22(4) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. It also accused Mr Agunloye of corruptly receiving N3.6 million from Sunrise Power company in August 2019, years after leaving office, for the purported approval of the federal government for the award of the contract to the company. EFCC said this act is also contrary to and punishable under Section 8(1)(a) and (b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. But Mr Agunloye denied all the charges, insisting that he is being picked on as the fall guy for the governments mishandling of the project, while those who were responsible for it were left off the hook. The project, first awarded in 2003 to Sunrise Power and Transmission Limited by the Olusegun Obasanjo-led administration, is the subject of decades of a legal dispute that is now under international arbitration between the company and the Nigerian government. Mr Obasanjo, in distancing himself from the botched contract, claimed that he was not aware that the contract was awarded by his then-minister, Mr Agunloye. According to Mr Agunloye, the contract for the project was duly awarded in 2003 by the Obasanjo administration on a Build, Operate and Transfer basis to deliver Nigerias biggest power plant with over 3,000 megawatts capacity at no cost to the Nigerian government. The project was expected to address Nigerias intractable energy crisis. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has said that police officers found guilty of using his name for extorting Nigerians will face severe punishment. Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson of the Force headquarters, Abuja stated this in a statement he posted on X on Wednesday. The IG said that such actions by police officers tarnish the reputation of his person and the Police Force and erode public trust. Mr Egbetokun implored the public to exercise caution and report any attempts to exploit his name for fraudulent activities or extortion, most especially in the investigation of cases. He highlighted the crucial role citizens play in collaboration with the Police Force to maintain a high standard of conduct and eliminate corruption within the system. The IGP, therefore, reassured the public of the Forces commitment, under his watch, to root out misconduct and ensure accountability at all levels. He urged Nigerians to promptly report any incidents of extortion or fraudulent activity, providing detailed information to facilitate thorough investigations that will lead to severe sanctions for erring officers. The inspector general of police issued the warning against the backdrop of increasing cases of extortion of Nigerians by police officers. This newspaper two weeks ago reported how the police in Rivers State recommended three officers for dismissal for extorting $3,000 from two Nigerians. The money was recovered from the officers and refunded to the victims. PREMIUM TIMES within the week reported how the commissioner of police in Delta State removed a Divisional Crimes Officer (DCO Abraka) in the state from his post for allegedly taking part in a N2.4 million extortion. The Divisional Police Officer in Abraka, Fabian Ayameh was also accused of benefiting from the said money to the tune of N950,000. The said money was recovered and returned to the victim. A human rights activist in Delta State, Harrison Gwamnishu, drew the attention of the police authorities to the extortions. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A human rights activist in Delta State, Harrison Gwamnishu, has accused police officers of extorting N3,150,000 from a Nigerian in Auchi, Edo State. Mr Gwamnishu, who made the allegation in a post via his X handle on Sunday, said the officers searched the victims phone and saw the balance on his bank app. He also alleged that the officers tortured and threatened the victim after taking him to his house and found nothing incriminating. After driving him around Auchi, they headed to Abuja with the threat that the victim would never return till he decided to cooperate with them. They finally took him to Area Command Auchi and then to a POS agent where they made him transfer N3,000,000 and another N150,000 as POS charges, Mr Gwamnishu wrote on X. Providing an update on the incident on Monday, Mr Gwamnishu said he visited the Auchi Command along with the victim where they met with the DC Operations, Edo State Police Command. Getting to Area Command Auchi, the DC Operations met the Area Commander who said that his men were not involved but the extortion was committed by officers from FIB-IRT, an acronym for Intelligence Response Team of the Force Intelligence Bureau. We were told that the FIB-IRT (officers) are not answerable to the office of Edo State Commissioner of Police and nothing can be done, he said. The police spokesperson in Edo state, Chidi Nwabuzor, when contacted said he was aware of the allegation but denied that the accused officers were serving in the state. They were visiting officers from the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, but not attached to the Edo Command, he said, adding that the Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi was aware of the incident. By the time the investigation is concluded and they are found culpable they will go in for it. The citizen rights must be respected, he said. The Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, did not respond to requests for comments when contacted. The incident is one of the many reported cases of extortion by police officers. The latest incident came less than a week after the police in Rivers State recommended three officers for dismissal for extorting $3, 000 from two Nigerians. A few days ago, the commissioner of police in Delta State removed a divisional crime officer in Abraka Division from his post for allegedly extorting N2.4 million from a Nigerian. The police got wind of the three alleged extortions through the post made on X by Mr Gwamnishu. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Children, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Magistrate Court in Awka, Anambra State, has remanded a female lawyer who allegedly abused her 11-year-old house help in the state. The lawyer, Adachukwu Cukelu-Okafor, was said to have used a broken bottle, knife and electric iron to brutalise the child who began staying with her on 5 January. The incident happened in Akpaka, Onitsha, in Onitsha North Local Government Area of Anambra State, after Mrs Cukelu-Okafor reportedly accused the house help of touching her daughter. Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, days after the incident, said his administration had begun the prosecution of Ms Cukelu-Okafor over the abuse of the house help. The lawyer later reportedly went into hiding which prompted the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare in Anambra, Ify Obinabo, to declare her wanted. PREMIUM TIMES reported that, following Ms Cukelu-Okafors disappearance, Nigerias Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, placed a N2 million bounty on the lawyer. The lawyer would later surrender herself to the police in Awka, Anambra State. Remand Ms Cukelu-Okafor was arraigned on Wednesday on a two-count charge of willful infliction of physical injuries on the house girl, according to a statement by Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, the media aide to the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare in Anambra. The statement said the offence of inflicting physical injuries is punishable under Section 4 (1) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition and Protection) Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria 2017. Ms Ikeanyionwu said the defendant pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to her. The media aide said Chijioke Nwankwo, counsel to the defendant, subsequently applied for bail, but the court declined the application and remanded the defendant in the custody of the State Criminal Investigative Department in Awka. The court adjourned the matter until 28 February for a ruling on the defendants bail application. When asked why the defendant took a long time to report to the police, the defence counsel, Mr Nwankwo, told reporters after the court session that he was not aware that his client was declared wanted and that a bounty was placed on her. He explained that he took Ms Cukelu-Okafor to the police as soon as he was contracted to represent her at the court. The defence counsel accused the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare of already carrying out trial by ordeal, which he said was not in the best interest of the case. The commissioner reacts Reacting, the Commissioner of Women and Social Welfare, Mrs Obinabo expressed her trust in the court to do justice to the matter, pointing out that she would soon embark on a media sensitisation programme to enlighten residents of the state on the dangers and consequences of child abuse. She appealed to the residents to shun all forms of social vices in society, especially vices that endanger the life of a child. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Nigerias Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, says the report of the official investigation into the military drone airstrike on civilians in Tudun Biri, a community in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, is ready. The strike killed many people, mostly children and women, celebrating the Maulud (birthday of Prophet Muhammad), last December. Mr Musa, an army general, told BBC Hausa on Tuesday that the report has identified the number of casualties but not their identities, as the community buried the bodies before the arrival of the authorities. We have only identified the numbers of casualties, not their identities because they (community members) had buried the victims before the arrival of the authorities and we cant go and exhume the bodies. The report is ready it will be made public before the end of February, Mr Musa said. He said the military is a trained institution of men and women with an instrument of coercion meant to protect the territorial integrity of Nigeria and its citizens, not to harm them. Nigerian Army is meant to protect the country and its people not to harm law-abiding citizens. We are only after the criminals, Mr Musa added Several attacks unreported by the military The Tudun Biri attack is one instance in a series of similar airstrikes on civilians by the Nigerian military in recent years. It was the second military airstrike on the civilian populace in the north of the country last year. The earlier attack in Nasarawa State was believed to have been carried out by a drone. The police confirmed that at least 27 herders, mainly ethnic Fulani, were killed in the Nasarawa incident. However, Fulani groups claimed 40 people were killed and scores of others injured. Most of those killed were herders returning from Benue State, after reclaiming their livestock seized by the Benue State Government. Another military airstrike claimed scores of civilian lives in December 2022 while soldiers were repelling attacks by non-state actors on some communities in the Dansadau District of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. In the Zamfara attack, women and children were also killed. In July 2022, at least six people were reported killed by an Air Force jet in Kunkunna in Safana Local Government of Katsina State. Like in Zamfara, the victims were hit by bombs targeted at bandits. In April 2022, six children were killed when a Nigerian Air Force jet bombed their residence in Kurebe, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. Ironically, the parents of two of the six children who were killed in the airstrike had been killed by bandits in 2020. In January 2017, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, said at least 52 people were killed after a Nigerian fighter jet accidentally dropped a bomb on an internally displaced persons, (IDP) camp in Rann, headquarters of Kala-Balge Local Government Area in Borno State. If the military authorities should eventually release the report of the investigation into the Tudun Biri disaster, it would be the first time they would be doing so. The Defence spokesperson, Bolaji Kazzem, and his colleague in the army, Onyema Nwachukwu, could not be immediately reached to comment on whether the reports on previous incidents will also be published. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The federal government has announced its plan to block leakages of official documents, following a series of recent leaks exposing wasteful and other forms of suspicious expenditures incurred by public officers amid the worsening economic woes of the country. Folashade Yemi-Esan, Nigerias head of civil service of the Federation, expressed concerns about rampant cases of disclosure of sensitive official documents in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs). In a circular dated 19 February but seen on Wednesday by PREMIUM TIMES, Ms Yemi-Esan said the government found the leakages of official documents very embarrassing. She vowed to sanction any federal government official caught flouting the directive. In the circular addressed to 24 top heads of government institutions, including the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, the Clerk of the National Assembly, and the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, the government directed permanent secretaries to fast-track the migration to the digitalised workflow system, and ensure effective deployment of the Enterprise Content Management (ECM) Solution. The circular titled, Measures to curtail the leakage of sensitive official information/documents in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), came amidst recent leaks exposing Betta Edus suspicious authorisation of payment of N585.2 million into the private bank account of a civil servant at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Some recent leaks The leaked memo showed that Ms Edu had in December 2023 requested Oluwatoyin Madein, the accountant general of the federation, to transfer the money from the account of the National Social Investment Office to the private account of Bridget Oniyelu, the accountant of a federal government poverty intervention project called Grants for Vulnerable Groups, a project under Mrs Edus ministry. The request contravenes various sections of Nigerias Financial Regulations 2009 meant to prevent fraud and other forms of corruption in government business The leaked memo also showed that a firm, New Planet Projects, traced to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, received N438 million as payment for consultancy fees from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation on Ms Edus watch. But the interior minister denied any involvement in the contract, insisting that he was no longer involved in the running of the company after resigning as its director in 2019. Despite the denial, the Code of Conduct in an invitation dated 10 January asked Mr Tunji-Ojo to appear before it on Tuesday, 16 January, for interrogation over the contract scandal. In the wake of the controversy that trailed Ms Edus approval of the payments, President Bola Tinubu suspended her from office as minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. In another instance, a leaked memo showed that Mr Tinubus Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, approved the N3 billion request from Ms Edu concerning COVID-19 funds. Mr Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has since asked law enforcement agencies to investigate what he called a campaign of calumny against him by mischief makers. https://www.thecable.ng/leaked-memo-shows-n3bn-covid-fund-was-diverted-to-social-register-verification/amp Recently, a memo emerged online showing Mr Tinubu approved N500 million to George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, for the inauguration of a 37-member committee on minimum wage negotiation. https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/presidency-blames-moles-as-pdp-demands-probe-of-leaked-n1bn-memo/%3famp Embarrassing leaks Without giving details, Ms Yemi-Esan, Nigerias head of federal civil service, described leakages of official documents as embarrassing to the government. It has been observed with dismay, the increase in the cases of leakage of sensitive official documents in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs). This is very embarrassing to the government and therefore unacceptable. Her memo added: As part of the efforts to curb this undesirable development, all permanent Secretaries are to fast-track the migration to the digitalised workflow system and ensure effective deployment of the Enterprise Content Management (ECM) Solution. This will reduce physical contact with official documents, thereby checking the increasing incidence of leakage and circulation of the same. Furthermore, Permanent Secretaries are advised to strongly warn all staff (members) against leaking and circulating official information and documents. Any officer caught engaging in such an unbecoming act will be severely dealt with in line with the relevant provisions of the Public Service Rules and other extant circulars. This circular therefore reinforces the earlier circular on Unauthorised Circulation of Official Document/Information on Social Mediadated 2 August 2021, and other regulations prohibiting unauthorised disclosure/leakage of official documents. Permanent Secretaries are to ensure strict compliance with the contents of this circular and draw the attention of the Heads of agencies under their supervision to same. List of recipients of memo The list of recipients of the memo includes the Chief of Staff to the President, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice-President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, all Permanent Secretaries, and Service Chiefs/Inspector-General of Police, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria. The recipients also include the chairpersons of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Police Service Commission, Code of Conduct Bureau, Code of Conduct Tribunal, Federal Character Commission, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation & Fiscal Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission Charman, Federal inland Revenue Service and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. The rest are Clerk of the National Assembly, Secretary of the National Judicial Council, Accountant-General of the Federation, Auditor-Gereral tor the Federation, Surveyor-General of the Federation, and Chief Registrar. Supreme Court of Nigeria and Directors-General and Chief Executives of Parastatals/Agencies. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The House of Representatives has called for the canalisation of the Epie Creek in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, to prevent flood. The lower chamber urged the Ministry of Niger-Delta Affairs and Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to award the contract for the canalisation of the creek. This decision was a sequel to a motion moved by Oboku Oforji (PDP, Bayelsa) on Wednesday during plenary. In the motion, Mr Oforji said the Epie Creek passes through 18 communities in the state, namely, Igbogene Epie, Yenegwe, Akenfa, Agudum Epiee, Akenpai, Edepie, Etegwekutukutu, Opolo, Biogbolo, Yenizue-Gene, Kpansia, Yenizue-Epie, Okaka, Ekeki, Amarata, Onopa, Ovom, and Yenegoa town. He noted that the creek, which serves as a means of transportation, also poses a significant threat due to perennial flood. Mr Oforji said the dredging would help to address the blockage of the channel and allow free flow of water. The creek has a significant impact on the socioeconomic well-being of the communities it serves due to its size and the towns it encompasses. It serves as a vital transportation route for numerous villages, provides subsistence through fish farming and other businesses, and has the potential to become a popular tourism destination. Residents of Bayelsa State, especially Yenegoa, the capital city, are concerned about the condition of the Epie Creek, believing it will not merely boost the economy but likewise help in the control of perennial flooding and facilitate the development of the state if the creeks capabilities are properly harnessed, the lawmaker said. The motion was not debated, and it was taken when it was put to the vote by the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen. The Committees on Niger Delta Ministry and Niger Delta Development Commission were mandated to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action. Construction of WambaShendamLangtangWase Road Meanwhile, the House also called on the Federal Ministry of Works to construct the WambaShendamLangtangWase road to tackle insecurity. This resolution followed the adoption of a motion moved by Jeremiah Umar, Ahmed Idris, Dafau Bulus, and John Dafan. Moving the motion on behalf of the co-sponsors, Mr Umar said the road is critical to tackling the insecurity ravaging that axis. He stated that the road will stimulate economic growth in Nasarawa, Plateau and part of Kaduna States. Following the presentation of the motion, the House directed the Committees on Appropriations and Works to make budgetary provision for the road construction in the 2025 budget estimates. The motion was also adopted without debate. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The report by the Auditor General of the Federation has accused the management of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, South-east Nigeria, of spending an unapproved N106 million for Christmas hampers and payment of productivity bonus to board members. The report also accused the university of making several other financial infractions including payments of N41 million sitting allowance to persons who are not entitled to such. Other infractions include N7.5 million unauthorised spending; N165 million unauthorised investments, and failure to account for the interests accrued from the investments. This revelation is coming at a time the Nigerian universities are hiking fees payable by students, insisting the hike was a result of the increasing cost of running the institutions and maintaining their facilities. In 2021, the university hiked fees payable by students, a development that sparked students protests on campus. After meeting with student representatives, the institution reached certain agreements but much of the new fees remained. Again, the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University also jerked up its fees by almost 100 per cent in 2023 when many Nigerian universities announced new fees. When contacted on the phone, the spokesperson for the university, Ene Chika, insisted the reporter, who is based in Abuja, must meet her at the office in Awka before she would respond to any question. Christmas hamper, productivity bonus The audit report, which is for the year 2020 and submitted to the National Assembly in December, said the university spent N106 million on Christmas hampers, cows, the redemption of thanksgiving pledges and productivity bonus to Board Members. The auditor general disclosed that there was no evidence of appropriation for the spending. The audit report, therefore, recommended that the House of Representatives committee on public accounts should ask the institutions vice-chancellor to provide a justification for the payment. Otherwise, sanctions relating to irregular payments and failure to spend public funds effectively specified in paragraphs 3106 and 3115 of the Financial Regulations 2009 respectively, should apply, it stated. Unmerited sitting allowances An April 2016 Establishment Circular stipulates that the Chief Executive Officers and other public servants on monthly salaries who are board members in their institutions establishments are not entitled to a sitting allowance. However, the university allegedly violated this by paying N41 million to some officers of the universities as sitting allowances for the institutions 115th council committee meeting held on 21st December 2018. The report also noted that the amount paid through two vouchers resulted in the duplication of payment for sitting allowances. The Audit report, therefore, asked the university to justify the irregular payment to the Public Accounts Committees of the National Assembly or recover and remit the sum of N41,203,465.00 to the Treasury. Otherwise, sanctions relating to irregular payment, failure to manage public funds effectively, and gross misconduct prescribed in paragraphs 3106, 3115, and 3129 of the Financial Regulations 2009 respectively, should apply, it stated. Unauthorised Investments Also, the university was accused of making unauthorised investments and failing to account for the interest accrued from the investments. According to the report, the university put N165 million in five different investments, in violation of investment directives as contained in the financial regulations. Paragraph 739 of the Financial Regulations (FR) 2009 states that idle funds in the Bank Accounts of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies shall only be invested in Treasury Bills in accordance with extant circulars. A January 2014 circular from the Accountant-General of the federation also informed all MDAs that they must inform the Accountant-General office of the terms of the investment and obtain approval before doing so. All such interests earned on any invested fund must be remitted on a monthly basis into the CRF failure of which shall be deemed as a violation of the extant rules and therefore attract appropriate sanction, the circular stated as quoted by the audit report. The audit report, therefore, noted that there was no evidence of approval from the Accountant-General of the Federation authorising the investments. Also, evidence of interest that accrued from the investments was not produced for audit. The report listed the investments to include the NAU local innovation project in which the university invested N10.5 million. It added that the university invested N8.2 million in investment shares; N85 million investment in American Hospital Abuja; N62 million investment in NAU OSIL (Water project); and N41,482 Broadcast Right. Relevant documents and information such as share certificates, Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) records showing details of the companies and the number of shares held amounting to N8,260,254.00 (Eight million, two hundred and sixty thousand, two hundred and fifty four naira) in serial number 2 in the Table above, were not presented for audit, the report added. Overspending The report noted that the institution also violated the constitution and financial regulations by spending more than the appropriated amount on projects. In 2018, the university spent N17.5 million on furniture allowance, N7.5 million above the approved N10 million naira, the report stated. Evidence of approval for the extra-budgetary spending was not produced for audit, the report added. This spending violated Section 80(4) of the Nigerian constitution, which stated that: No money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund or any other public fund of the Federation, except in the manner prescribed by the National Assembly. Meanwhile, the Financial Regulation 2009 also states that the expenditure shall strictly be classified in accordance with the estimate, and votes must be applied only to the purpose for which the money is provided. Expenditure incorrectly charged to a vote shall be disallowed. University keeps mum When contacted for reaction on the allegations contained in the report, the spokesperson for the university, Ms Chika, insisted on seeing the reporter one-on-one before making any comment on the matter. Despite listing the allegations and referencing the report by the Office of the Auditor General for the Federation as the source of the allegations, the official declined comments. Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The 47-member Constitution Review Committee of the 10th Senate rose from its inaugural meeting on Wednesday in Abuja with a pledge to conclude the exercise in two years. Chairman of the committee and Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, stated this while delivering his speech at the meeting. It is important to note that the committee is not constituted to rewrite the 1999 Constitution but to process proposed amendments to it, and we will strive to conclude this assignment within the next 24 months, he said. Mr Jibrin pledged that members of the committee will be diligent in the amendment of the document. He said its members will be guided in the amendment process by a work plan. The secretariat will submit a work plan and a process map with time-lines to the steering committee which will be presented for consideration and approval by members in the next meeting, he said. Mr Jibrin, who represents Kano North Senatorial District, assured that the committee will collaborate with members of the House of Representatives and critical stakeholders in the amendment process before the president assents to it. I wish to quickly remind you that we will work in synergy with our counterparts in the House of Representatives, and we will be very strategic in the conduct of our affairs. We will be guided by the laws and rules of legislative business, including precedence where it does not conflict with any known rule, while also being innovative where we can. The committee will strongly consult and engage critical stakeholders in a way that will ensure that bills passed by the National Assembly will be approved by the State Houses of Assembly and assented to by Mr. President. Mr Jibrin urged members of the committee to be committed to the constitutional review and amendment. I, enjoin us to be committed to the activities of the committee because the task ahead is huge as some of the issues already canvassed by some critical stakeholders are quite delicate. Accept my congratulations on your nomination to this committee. Your nomination is a product of your rank as legislators generally and as ranking senators in your various states and geo-political zones including special interest groups. I hope that your wealth of experience and knowledge of our nation will be brought to bear in the work of the committee. During the inauguration of the committee last week, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, explained that the 1999 constitution needed a review because it contained many issues that should be put right. There is a need for us to touch some aspects of the constitution to bring them in line with current relatives particularly with the era of artificial intelligence and some of the things we have observed that need to be put right, Mr Akpabio said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ukrainian showman Oleksandr Pedan spoke in court in support of the former acting director of the Department of Military and Technical Policy of the Ministry of Defense Oleksandr Liev, who is suspected of embezzling 1.5 billion hryvnias for the purchase of mines for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which no one has received. Pedan's support greatly angered the TV presenter's supporters, who later began to justify his actions and position on the suspect. ADVERTISIMENT The first wave of hate was posted on the showman's Instagram, to which Pedan did not respond. Later, he published a post explaining the reason for defending Liev, who was also planning to cross the border in Chernivtsi region, in court, but it did not help - the TV presenter was again attacked with indignation. "I came to the High Anti-Corruption Court session on January 29 to guarantee that he would not avoid justice, would not travel abroad and would cooperate with the investigation. This possibility is provided for by law and is an absolutely normal practice. Does this mean that I do not believe in the charges against him? Of course not, because this is a matter of justice, and I cannot make professional assessments," Pedan wrote. ADVERTISIMENT He decided not to justify Liev as much as he tried to avoid responsibility for his friend's bail, which failed because it created a new wave of hate. "We live in a democratic country, so if a person has really committed a crime, he or she should be punished fairly. If not, they should be acquitted. Definitely," the showman said. It is interesting that Oleksandr Pedan began his "speech" with his previous statements about Liev as a "good family man and father" and about the length of their friendship, which no one seemed to believe. "I have personally known Oleksandr Liev for over ten years, we have been really good friends for all this time. I know him as a decent person, a good family man, a loving father of five children, whose family has been in Ukraine throughout the great war," the TV presenter wrote. ADVERTISIMENT As we noted above, his audience was not reassured by his excuses, and his followers are almost calling the showman a "traitor." "Tell me who your friend is, and I'll tell you who you are", "They said that about maniacs, too, that he was a decent family man", "You seem to be wooing him for us. What does this have to do with anything? As if he was accused of child abuse", "Hmm, a decent corrupt official? Sometimes it's better to keep silent than to open your mouth, Oleksandr" and similar hate messages Pedan received. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! A former Nigerian ambassador, Lilian Onoh, on Tuesday, accused Geoffrey Onyeama of lacking the mental health to be a minister when he served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the former President Muhammadu Buharis regime. Mr Onyeama who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs under Mr Buhari from 2015 to 2023, is locked in a libel suit he filed against Ms Onoh at the Federal Capital Territory High Court at Zuba in Abuja. Testifying via zoom from her base in the United States of America on Tuesday, Ms Onoh told the judge, Keziah Ogbonnaya, that she had warned Mr Buhari not to hire Mr Onyeama in one of her memos. As her reason, she said she cited Mr Onyeamas hereditory insanity and the corrosive effects of the psychotropic medication which had caused him to always claim he was not aware and which had negatively impacted Nigerias international relations. Ms Onoh was led in her evidence-in-chief by Monday Ejeh, her lawyer, while she opened her defence in the libel case on Tuesday. She said Nigerias secret police, the State Security Service (SSS) must have flagged Mr Onyeamas suitability for the top job and his long familiar history at the Enugu Psychiatric Hospital, but was likely over-ridden by late Mallam Abba Kyari. Mr Kyari who was former President Buharis chief of staff passed away in 2020 after he contracted the deadly coronavirus. The deceased presidential aide was reputed to have exerted enormous influence on Mr Buhari, influencing critical government policies and actions. Alleged corruption at foreign affairs ministry Delving into the principal subject matter of the suit corruption Ms Onoh who was at different times Nigerias envoy to Namibia and Jamaica, said she penned several letters to Mr Buhari about the grand corruption that was taking place on Mr Onyeamas watch as foreign affairs minister. She pointed to at least 20 letters listed in her evidence detailing the alleged rot in the system that she alleged Mr Onyeama was complicit in. At Tuesdays hearing, Ms Onoh lampooned the former minister for not being aware that the embezzlement of $2.8 million by Nigerian diplomats in Jamaica in the wake of the devastating 2010 earthquake, was not a bilateral problem with Jamaica but concerned Red Cross. Contrary to Mr Onyeamas testimony at the last hearing, the ex-envoy clarified Mr Onyeama was not the person who commenced investigation into the Red Cross fraud. Rather, she said Mr Onyeama truncated probes into alleged stealing by Nigerian diplomats of donations by the Red Cross to survivors of the Jamaican earthquake. Rather, she said Mr Onyeama truncated probes into the stealing by Nigerian diplomats of donations by the Red Cross to survivors of the Haiti earthquake. Ms Onoh had raised the alarm that the sum of $2.8 million was being misappropriated out of the $5 million donations by the Red Cross in Nigeria to victims of the deadly 2010 Haiti earthquake was embezzled by Nigerian diplomats in Jamaica. The Nigerian mission in Jamaica was saddled with the responsibility of applying the $5 million donations to the humanitarian disaster occasioned by the earthquake in the Caribbean country. But when Ms Onoh was posted to Jamaica in May 2015 as Nigerias envoy, an investigation was launched into the alleged malfeasance. Ms Onoh said a former permanent secretary at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Bulus Lolo, referred the fraud in Jamaica to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), but when Mr Onyeama took office as minister in November 2015, he allegedly quashed investigation into the matter. Judges impartiality questioned Before adopting her statement of defence, Ms Onoh, for the umpteenth time, asked the judge, Keziah Ogbonnaya, to recuse herself from the suit on account of alleged bias in her handling of the matter. She referenced the 1983 precedent set by Anthony Aniogolu, a former Justice of the Supreme Court who recused himself from the election petition case between her late father, Christian Onoh, and Jim Nwobodo . She had filed petitions before the National Judicial Council and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, Yusuf Baba-Husseini, urging the latter to reassign the suit to another judge. The defendant anchored her request on the relationship between Ms Ogbonnaya and Mr Onyeama, both of whom, she said, hailed from Enugu State. At an engaging session on Tuesday, the defendant alleged the judge had exhibited brazen bias against her in favour of Mr Onyeama by refusing to hear and determine a pending request challenging the competence of the suit. Ms Onoh said Mr Onyeama lacked the right to sue her in his private capacity, having cited only issues concerning his performance in his official capacity as foreign affairs minister in his suit. She denied defaming Mr Onyeama as her letters bordering on the former ministers alleged corrupt acts were addressed to then President Buhari, to whom both she and Onyeama had to report. She said the letters were acts of qualified privilege and duty. Also, Ms Onoh argued that Mr Onyeamas contention about a private WhatsApp message from her to him being defamatory has no legal basis. Angry response At the tense hearing on Tuesday, Mr Onyeamas lawyer, Agada Elachi, said Ms Onoh was being unruly in her testimony, which caused her to flare up and accuse him of dereliction of duty to his psychiatric patient. Neither the interjection from Mr Elachi nor Ms Onohs lawyer, Monday Ejeh, could douse the tense atmosphere, as she insisted on putting her defence forward in the case. She further accused Mr Elachi of colluding with his client to perpetrate fraud by serving court documents on her through Mr Onyeama at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja. When Mr Onyeamas lawyers asked the judge to expedite the adoption of Ms Onohs filed responses in order to speed up proceedings, she strenuously objected. She said she had a right to defend herself and since the judge had refused to hear the request for the dismissal of the case, necessitating her to defend an incompetent suit, she was entitled to take her time to defend herself properly and referenced the judge giving Onyeama four days for his testimony. But, the judge overruled Ms Onoh, saying the defendants Statement of Defence, her counterclaim and her reply to Mr Onyeamas response to her counterclaim were deemed adopted, even without her consent. Subsequently, the judge adjourned the suit until Thursday for cross-examination. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Kogi State Government on Tuesday distributed 50 truckloads of rice to indigent citizens as a palliative to cushion economic hardships in the state. Speaking during the distribution at the Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Ododo warned officials against diversion and hoarding of the palliative. The governor said the intervention was strictly meant for the indigents at the lower level of the socioeconomic spectrum of the society. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the rice will be distributed to households across the 239 wards in the 21 local government areas of the state. We have put in place the mechanism to track, identify and deal decisively with those who may want to hoard or divert the items from those who needed them most amongst us. This is to keep our focus on sustainable and long-lasting tenure to ensure food security and banish economic hardships in our dear state, he said. He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support in facilitating the palliative distribution to the indigent citizens of the state. Mr Ododo also appreciated the people for their understanding, patience and resilience in the challenging period of economic hardships. He reiterated his administrations commitment to guaranteeing food security in the state through a long-term agricultural development plan for massive food production. He said: We must produce what we eat, eat what we produce and produce what others eat. I assure you that the distribution of the palliative will be a quarterly exercise across the 239 wards in the 21 LGAs of the state. Mr Ododo restated his determination to serve the citizens diligently with the fear of God to deliver the dividends of democracy to them irrespective of political affiliation, tribe, ethnicity and religion. I want to again caution that these palliatives are meant for the indigent who need them most; we are not going to allow any unpatriotic element to cheat on them. I will not condone any act of indiscipline. l am going to be part of the Committee that would monitor the distribution of the palliative. The time for politics has come and gone, and it is time for governance. I beg all of us to allow the poor to breathe; I am part of them, raised among them, I am committed to serving them sincerely and not disappointing them, Mr Ododo reiterated. Earlier, the states Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Rabiat Okwute, commended the governor for the gesture, and urged the people to remain supportive to enjoy more dividends of democracy. In their goodwill messages, the Speaker, Kogi House of Assembly, Umar Yusuf; and the state Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Gabriel Amari, commended the governor for the laudable initiative. They commended the governor for fulfilling his campaign promises to the residents toward alleviating the suffering of the people and ensuring adequate security in the state. On his part, the Attah Igala and President, Kogi Traditional Council, Matthew Opaluwa, thanked the governor for keeping to his campaign promise to alleviate the plights of the people. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Certification to reaffirm Azentio's standing as today's most relevant Islamic financial services technology provider SINGAPORE, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Azentio Software ("Azentio"), a Singapore-headquartered technology firm owned by funds advised by Apax Partners , has announced that iMAL latest version and the company's industry-leading digital Islamic core banking platform, has successfully completed the annual compliance exercise and received the certification for the year 2024 from the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions - AAOIFI , the world's renowned standard-setting body for the Islamic financial services industry. This certification is a categorical endorsement of iMAL continuous adherence to all the currently active AAOIFI Shariah Standards and AAOIFI Financial Accounting Standards, and affirms the commitment of Azentio's forward-looking approach to ensure their clients get the best of technology that is scalable and compliant with those standards. Azentio's Shariah Compliance team keeps track of newly issued standards and exposure drafts to ensure iMAL clients get a solution capable of offering products and services aligned with AAOIFI Standards and industry trends. The latest version of iMAL comes with more security capabilities, and wider features to streamline processes related to taxation and reporting, with enhanced user-friendly dashboards and access privileges. Omar Mustafa Ansari, Secretary General of AAOIFI, commented, "We are pleased to conclude the review of the latest version of iMAL for the year 2024, which was conducted to verify its compliance with AAOIFI Shariah Standards and AAOIFI Financial Accounting Standards. iMAL's continued compliance with AAOIFI Standards serves to mitigate the likelihood of Shariah non-compliance risks and upholds and promotes transparency in financial reporting for Azentio's clients, which include prominent Islamic financial institutions globally. We believe that our ongoing partnership with Azentio fulfils the requirements of at least 47 jurisdictions globally which recognise AAOIFI Standards in various manifestations, while also supporting the advancement of other jurisdictions." Sanjay Singh, Group CEO at Azentio, stated, "The Islamic financial services segment continues to witness impressive growth, therefore Azentio is as excited as the financial institutions in the segment, to have an opportunity to cater to the growing demand globally for Shariah-compliant products and services. Being awarded the compliance certification by AAOIFI since 2008 is a big achievement for Azentio and reaffirms our standing as pioneers in the global marketplace. This achievement restates our commitment to offer our clients the most valuable combination of latest software technology and Shariah-based processes. Any entity dealing with our clients, be it customers or partners, can rest assured that every relevant Shariah principle, is being faithfully and thoroughly followed by our clients." About Azentio Software Azentio provides mission-critical software products across Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa and India to banks, financial services providers, and insurers. It also provides ERP solutions to mid-market enterprises. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1978771/Azentio_Logo.jpg MANILA, Philippines, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CGI (NYSE:GIB) (TSX:GIB.A) recently announced that it has received the Great Place to Work certification in the Philippines for the third consecutive year. The certification recognizes CGI's commitment to building a workplace founded in an ownership culture, fostering an inclusive and innovative work environment for all. CGI is Great Place to Work-certified for the third year in the Philippines The recognition is based on collective and anonymous feedback gathered from CGI's consultants and professionals. Through the Great Place to Work assessment model that evaluates an organization's culture and engagement practices based on the Trust Index and Culture Audit, CGI professionals can share their feedback on five key dimensions: Credibility, Respect, Fairness, Pride, and Camaraderie. Rakesh Aerath, President, Asia Pacific Global Delivery Centers of Excellence shared, "This achievement is a testament to the dedication and excellence of our incredible team. Together, we have built a workplace culture that values collaboration, innovation, and the well-being of every team member. We are proud to be part of a company where passion meets purpose, and where every individual contributes to our collective success." In 2023, CGI also ranked among the Top 8 Best Workplaces in the Philippines for the large company category. "The consistent accolades CGI has received over the years, reaffirm our commitment to creating an environment where we enjoy working together and contributing to building a company, we are proud of.", Jill De Jesus, Senior Vice President and Business Unit Leader, Philippines Global Delivery Center. She added, "This accomplishment reflects the unwavering commitment and dedication of our professionals to foster an inclusive, positive, and innovative work culture." About the Great Place to Work Institute Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. The Institute serves business, non-profits, and government agencies in over 60 countries and has conducted pioneering research on the characteristics of great workplaces for over three decades. In the Philippines, the institute partners with more than 1,000 organizations to help them build High-Trust, High-Performance Cultures designed to deliver sustained business results. Hundreds of CEOs are part of the great place community, committed to the vision of building a better world by helping organizations become Great Places to Work for All including every Filipino. About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,500 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2023 reported revenue is C$14.30 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com. Stock Market Symbols GIB (NYSE) GIB.A (TSX) www.cgi.com/newsroom Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2343658/Great_Place_to_Work_Philippines.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2043083/4552217/CGI_Logo.jpg LONDON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zarqa Al Yamama, the first Grand Opera produced by The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Commission, one of the 11 sector specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, was internationally unveiled at an exclusive event in London's historic Goldsmiths' Hall. His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al Saud, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Minister of Culture, unveils Zarqa Al Yamama at launch event Dame Sarah Connolly at the international launch of Zarqa Al Yamama Premiering to the public in Riyadh in April 2024, Zarqa Al Yamama, the first Grand Opera in Arabic will feature locally trained artists alongside international performers to tell the legend of the heroine who was blessed with the gift of foresight. Attendees at the London event were introduced to a special presentation and musical preview of the grand opera which delivered a state-of-the-art theatrical production filled with sweeping orchestral movements and mesmerising choral performances. Reflecting on the international launch of Zarqa Al Yamama, Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, added: ''We are proud to unveil the legend of Zarqa Al Yamama in London, recognised around the world as a leading city for international arts and culture, and are excited to welcome global audiences to Riyadh this April for the premiere of the Opera. Performances like these will inspire the creation of even more spectacular productions and the dawn of more Saudi works to be produced." The audience also enjoyed an introduction to the adaptation of the legend of Zarqa Al Yamama by Saudi writer and poet Saleh Zamanan, as well as a presentation of the opera's music by Ivan Vukcevic, CEO of Arabian Opera. Principle cast members Dame Sarah Connolly, the world-famous mezzo soprano leading the production in the titular role of Zarqa Al Yamama, as well as sopranos Amelia Wawrzon and Sawsan Albahiti. Audiences marvelled at the special performance by Amelia and Sawsan of the score composed by the renowned Lee Bradshaw. The opera will be performed by the internationally acclaimed Dresdner Sinfoniker led by notable conductor Pablo Gonzalez, with vocal accompaniments by the Czech Philharmonic Choir Brno. World-renowned stage director Daniele Finzi Pasca, producer of major events such as Cirque du Soleil and two Winter Olympic ceremonies, has devised the opera's stunning staging and special effects. Through producing works like Zarqa Al Yamama, the Theater and Performing Arts Commission creates opportunities for emerging performers to showcase their talents locally and internationally, sets a standard for future productions, fosters international cultural exchange and represents a major step in the further development of the Kingdom's opera industry. Media Contacts: The Communication Group plc, 020 7630 1411, zarqa@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344512/The_Kingdom_of_Saudi_Arabias_Minister_of_Culture.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344508/Dame_Sarah_Connolly.jpg ATHLONE, Ireland, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zinkworks, a provider of turnkey development services, is excited to announce its collaboration with Samsung to showcase its revolutionary rApps at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024. The event, held at the Fira Grand Via in Barcelona, will see Samsung demonstrating Zinkworks' cutting-edge rApps at Booth 2M20 located in Hall 2. Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 - Barcelona, Spain Ji-Yun Seol, Vice President and Head of Product Strategy, Networks Business at Samsung Electronics: "The RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) is a newly developed open network control framework that offers significant benefits for intelligent network automation. We look forward to seeing partners of the growing RIC ecosystem develop various rApps use cases such as Zinkwork's traffic and QoS prediction." Advancing Network Efficiency with Intelligent Prediction Zinkworks rApps empower network operators to achieve greater operational efficiency and enhanced performance. Whether deployed as a rApp on the RIC or integrated directly via platform REST APIs, Zinkworks' automated prediction models contribute to lower costs, increased network efficiency, and achieving sustainability goals through reduced resource and energy wastage. Paul Madden, CEO of Zinkworks, said: "We look forward to being back at Mobile World Congress this year and collaborating with Samsung, who will be demonstrating the future of network prediction with Zinkworks rApps, as part of their Samsung SMO rApp Ecosystem." The two applications that will be showcased are: Zinkworks Network Traffic Prediction (NTP): NTP provides adaptive tools for predicting network traffic. Integrating this prediction model into the network control plane makes networks more proactive and resilient. NTP provides adaptive tools for predicting network traffic. Integrating this prediction model into the network control plane makes networks more proactive and resilient. Zinkworks Quality of Service Prediction (QoS-P): QoS Prediction (QoS-P) enhances the 5G network by predicting KPIs and providing QoS scores. These forecasts improve network performance by enabling proactive resource allocation and dynamic network slicing. Meet Us at MWC 2024: Discover the Future of Network Predictions If you are attending MWC 2024, visit Samsungs Booth 2M20, Hall 2 at the Fira Grand Via, Barcelona, to explore the latest innovations in rApps. To schedule a meeting with our team to learn more about our offerings, click here. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2341760/Zinkworks.jpg Press Release February 21, 2024 SPONSORSHIP SPEECH Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada Chairperson, Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation Committee Report Nos. 200, 201, 202 and 203 Payapa at panatag na buhay sa bawat Pilipino. This noble objective is enshrined in our Constitution and lies at the heart of every policy decision of the national government, including the Senate. This is the aim of our long-term development plans that shapes our priority legislative agenda. Also, the silencing of guns, an end to warfare, and the cessation of hostilities serve as the bedrock of prosperity and economic growth. With that, Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, as your Chairperson of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation, I have the distinct honor to sponsor four (4) Committee Reports numbered 200, 201, 202, and 203 which are in line with the collective aspiration of the Filipino people for a peaceful and united nation. Our Committee Reports respectfully recommend the adoption of House Concurrent Resolutions 19, 20, 21, and 22 concurring with Presidential Proclamations 403, 404, 405, and 406, respectively. The said proclamations grant amnesty to: 1. The members of the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB); 2. The former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF); 3. The members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF); and 4. The members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Through the years, Philippine presidents have exercised their power to grant executive clemency to certain qualified individuals towards the advancement of reconciliation and in pursuit of social cohesion. Under the 1987 Constitution, this presidential power is tempered by the requirement to seek the approval of the legislature by requiring the concurrence of a majority of all the Members of the Congress to take full effect. Hence, this representation humbly seeks the support of this august chamber to allow the members of rebel groups and those who have been entangled in armed conflicts to be reintegrated into mainstream society and welcome them back into the folds of the law. As in other jurisdictions around the world, amnesty has also been judiciously wielded as an instrument of healing and to express sincerity and commitment of the national government towards the completion of the implementation of peace agreements. And the Amnesty Program is an integral component of the Philippine government's normalization program and comprehensive peace efforts. In particular: - the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro which concluded 17 years of negotiations between the Philippine Government and the MILF; - the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the MNLF which serves as part of the full implementation of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement; - the Peace Agreement with the RPMP-RPA-ABB which was signed in December 2000 during the administration of my father, former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, and its 2019 Clarificatory Implementing Document; and - Executive Order No. 70 series of 2018, the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and Amnesty Program for the CPP-NPA-NDF. Mr. President, the amnesty is granted to rebels who have committed crimes in pursuit of their political beliefs, including but not limited to the following: rebellion or insurrection; sedition; illegal assembly; direct and indirect assault; resistance and disobedience to a person in authority; illegal possession of firearms, ammunition or explosives, provided that these crimes or offense were committed in furtherance of, incident to, or in connection with the crimes of rebellion or insurrection, among others. As provided under Section 4 of each Presidential Proclamation, the amnesty shall extinguish any criminal liability of former rebels for acts committed in pursuit of political beliefs. It shall also restore civil and political rights suspended or lost by virtue of criminal conviction. But more than that, to quote Sec. Carlito Galvez, Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, who himself was a beneficiary of amnesty during the Ramos administration as a former rebel, "[Amnesty] creates a path toward their full transformation and enables them to return to mainstream society. Amnesty will be the key to building a better and brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities." To be clear, the proclamations provide that amnesty shall not be granted to those who have already been proscribed or those charged under the Human Security Act of 2007 and the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. Moreover, amnesty granted shall not cover kidnap for ransom, massacre, rape, terrorism, crimes committed against chastity, crimes committed for personal ends, violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, grave violations of the Geneva Convention of 1949, as well as genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, enforced disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights. Ngunit hindi po basta ipinagkakaloob ang amnestiya. Ginoong Pangulo, sasailalim po sa proseso ng aplikasyon ang mga nagnanais makatanggap nito. Pangungunahan ng National Amnesty Commission at mga local amnesty boards ang masusing vetting process katuwang ang iba't ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan, kabilang ang Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) upang masiguro na kwalipikado sila na gawaran ng amnestiya. Sa isinagawang pagdinig ng inyong Committee, inaasahang dalawang libong (2,000) kasapi ng MNLF at isang libo at dalawang daang (1,200) miyembro ng RPMP-RPA-ABB ang mag-aapply sa programang ito. Samantala, ayon sa OPAPRU, apat na raang (400) MILF combatants na may mga kinakaharap na kaso ang nag-apply na, at tinatayang darami pa ito. Gayundin, mula sa tatlumpu't siyam na libong (39,000) surrenderees at nag-withdraw ng suporta sa CPP-NPA-NDF, kasalukuyang mayroong dalawang daan at pitumpung (270) indibidwal ang may pending cases at inaasahang mag-a-avail ng amnesty. For its part, the defense establishment throws its full support to the Congressional concurrence to these amnesty proclamations as these are testaments "to the commitment of the current administration to sustaining the gains in our internal security and stability." The same offers an invaluable opportunity for our "brothers and sisters to transform their lives," gain access to government's socio-economic services, and rebuild their lives. Ginoong Pangulo, mga kasamahang mambabatas, bagong buhay at bagong pag-asa para sa mga dating rebolusyonaryo at itinuturing na kalaban ng pamahalaan ang hatid ng pag-apruba ng Mataas na Kapulungan sa isinusulong nating amnesty program. Isang mahalagang hakbang din ito upang wakasan ang karahasan at maraming taon ng labanan sa pagitan ng kapwa natin Pilipino. Panghuli, isang positibong pagkilos ito tungo sa pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan at pagpapatibay ng pagkakabuklod-buklod sa ating minamahal na bansa. Dahil sa mga magagandang maidudulot nito, masasabi nating "Amnesty is the best policy." Maraming salamat po. Activists of the This Is Rigged organization broke into the residence of King Charles III of Great Britain in Edinburgh, Scotland. They sat down at the big royal table and had lunch, eating from plastic utensils and drinking tea from flasks. ADVERTISIMENT The sovereign and his wife Camilla were not at home at the time. The Express reported on what the activists were demanding, and photos of the protesters' "tea party" appeared on the This Is Rigged page on X (formerly Twitter). "This is a fake occupation of the royal dining room of the holyrood palace to steal their lunch. We are calling on the Scottish government to meet with us to discuss the introduction of community food centers in Scotland - give us a warm place to eat or we will find it anywhere... including the palace," the photo's description reads. The photos show that activists have unfurled large posters with provocative slogans at the monarch's residence: "The people are stronger than the lord". ADVERTISIMENT So, the protesters' demands are as follows: Reduce food prices, in particular for infant formula, to the price level of March 2021. Create a publicly funded community food center for every 500 families in Scotland. One of the activists, 22-year-old student Josephine O'Connor, commented: "As the multiple crises we face continue to intensify, it is becoming increasingly clear that those in power are not coming to the rescue and that profits are once again taking precedence over people. Everything is in our hands... We need to speak out because this is our future." ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA: - On January 25, the King of Great Britain was hospitalized due to prostate enlargement. The day before, on January 17, Buckingham Palace reported that during a routine checkup, Charles was found to have a benign tumor that was "treatable." - King Charles chose to be transparent about his diagnosis, while 42-year-old Kate Middleton, who also underwent surgery, expressed her "desire to maintain as much of a normal life as possible" for her children. - Later, on February 5, it became known that the King of Great Britain had been diagnosed with cancer. It was detected during a recent surgery that the monarch underwent due to an enlarged prostate gland. - This is the first time Charles III has addressed the British people since it became known that he had cancer. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! HONG KONG, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2024 Youth Music Culture The Greater Bay Area (YMCG) reached a successful conclusion on Jan. 31 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. YMCG was founded in 2017 and is held every year. The event was upgraded from Guangdong to the Greater Bay Area in 2023. Music Director Daniel Harding conducts the YMCG Symphony Orchestra at the 2024 Youth Music Culture the Greater Bay Area. The 84 young musicians of the 2024 YMCG Orchestra were selected from 70 renowned music schools in China, Europe, America, and Asia, and nearly 20 Chinese professional orchestras. Internationally-renowned conductor Daniel Harding, who will serve as the music director for the five YMCG events from 2024 to 2028, and the faculty team led the young musicians on a fruitful weeklong artistic journey from Jan. 20 to Feb. 1. The YMCG faculty team includes principal players from the world's top orchestras, such as the Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, and London Symphony Orchestra. Between 2017 and 2023, hundreds of young musicians, from 59 cities in 21 countries, participated in YMCG, including students from leading international music schools, such as Harvard University, Yale School of Music, Curtis Institute of Music, and the Royal Conservatory of Music. Many have since held positions in renowned orchestras and conservatories, or won prizes at international music competitions. Liu Ming served as the concertmaster of the YMCG Orchestra and is now the concertmaster of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. YMCG is an excellent platform to promote the creation, dissemination, and promotion of musical excellence. In Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra commissioned Hong Kong composer Elliot Leung to write Aureate Skylines, a new work for the 2024 YMCG. At the opening concert, composer Zhou Tian's Metropolis, also commissioned by the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra, gave the audience vivid insight into the development and progress of Guangzhou, the Greater Bay Area, and China. During the 2024 YMCG, the young musicians and faculty members held several concerts, talks and master classes. They also visited several cultural and tourist landmarks in the Greater Bay Area including the Cantonese Opera Museum, the Guangdong Museum, and the Canton Tower for public performances and to learn about Guangdong culture. With these activities, based around the city's cultural and tourism landmarks, the 2024 YMCG creatively fused music with culture and tourism "with culture to promote tourism, and tourism to recognize culture." Contact: Matt Herman [email protected] SOURCE Youth Music Culture The Greater Bay Area GREELEY, Colo., Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- AdapTable Meals, a leading brand providing convenient, pre-seasoned meal solutions, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Magnetic Creative, which will serve as the company's new agency of record (AOR). This collaboration marks a significant milestone for AdapTable Meals as it continues to expand its presence in the retail market. In a move to make its products more accessible to consumers nationwide, AdapTable Meals is also excited to announce its upcoming availability in select Costco warehouses later this month. "AdapTable Meals consistently delivers on the 'Full on Flavor, Light on Effort' promise with strong, continued growth momentum in the pre-seasoned and value-added space across multiple proteins, including beef, chicken, and pork," said Eduardo Noronha, President, JBS Value Added. "Among our retail partners, we're excited that AdapTable Meals will soon be available at select Costco locations, and we hope to reach more consumers and provide them with convenient, pre-seasoned meal options." AdapTable Meals Announces Magnetic Creative as New Agency of Record and Expansion into Costco Stores Post this AdapTable Meals has already established a strong retail presence across the United States, with its products available at numerous major retailers including Kroger, Safeway, and Food Lion. By expanding to Costco, AdapTable Meals aims to build on its brand promise of quality, convenience, and value. Magnetic Creative's expertise in consumer packaged goods will play a critical role in facilitating the brand's expansion into new retail channels and growth opportunities. Founded in 2008, Magnetic Creative has delivered value to an esteemed roster of global brands including Chili's, Ford, MTV, KitchenAid, Nexgrill/Megamaster, and many others. This partnership is poised to elevate AdapTable Meals' brand presence both in-store and online through innovative marketing strategies and creative solutions. To learn more about Magnetic Creative, visit the agency's website at www.MagneticCreative.com . Find an AdapTable Meals retailer near you, including its new Costco locations, by using the Store Locator tool at www.AdapTableMeals.com . For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] SOURCE Magnetic Creative Agreement includes development of a cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D center expected to create more than 5,000 local jobs. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Alat (Alat), a PIF company, and Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, today announced their commitment to build a cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D facility in Saudi Arabia that will deliver advanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions. The partnership will serve customers in the Kingdom, and its visionary Giga projects, such as NEOM, as well as ensure broader regional and even global distribution. Alat was established on February 1, 2023, by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Alat. The agreement will leverage Alat's financial strengths and Carrier's technology and manufacturing capabilities to develop made-in-Saudi Arabia intelligent climate solutions, marking the first phase of the partnership with Alat. These offerings will address the continued growth of the HVAC industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is expected to become a US$10 billion addressable market by 2030 and a US$334 billion market globally by 2030 driven by secular trends including urbanization, sustainability and energy solutions, and digital transformation. This market will also provide scale to develop products, such as solutions for district cooling and heating, which could be used globally. Amit Midha, Chief Executive Officer at Alat, said: "We are proud to partner with a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, and bring to the Kingdom expertise and innovation in this field. We see Carrier as a long-term partner in our Smart Buildings line of business, which is solely focused on solutions that integrate innovation, sustainability, and efficiency for buildings. Carrier's commitment to sustainability makes them the natural partner for Alat." "Carrier has long had a presence in Saudi Arabia and we see significant growth opportunities in the region. This partnership is the start of a longer-term partnership to co-develop innovative solutions that will redefine intelligent climate and energy solutions for the Middle East and beyond," said Carrier Chairman & CEO David Gitlin. "The Kingdom's vision for a more energy efficient, environmentally responsible tomorrow is well aligned with Carrier's goals and makes this partnership a winning combination. We are excited about the future and look forward to collaborating with Alat as we further build on our long presence in this important region. Since 1987, Carrier has been actively engaged in the Saudi market through a successful joint venture with EA Juffali and Brothers, a prominent group in the Kingdom. Carrier remains committed to this longstanding and valuable partnership." Carrier and Alat plan to break ground later this year on an advanced sustainable manufacturing and R&D facility in the Kingdom that will provide high-volume, high-tech, energy-efficient HVAC products including variable refrigerant flow (VRF), air-cooled chillers, air handling units (AHUs) and rooftop units for MENA markets, supported by local supply chain. R&D will focus on developing breakthrough technologies to meet region-specific requirements, such as high ambient temperature and natural/Low GWP refrigerant HVAC systems, both of which can also be exported globally. As many as 5,000 jobs are expected to be created locally to support the project. With access to over 2 billion consumers, Saudi Arabia's location is not only at the center of the Gulf, but also at the heart of major trade routes crossing Europe, the Middle East and Asia, where Saudi Arabia is forging a new economic partnership with the recently formed India Middle East Europe Corridor (IMEC). The Kingdom is accelerating the adoption of the Fourth Industrial Revolution applications, enhancing supply chain and logistics. While the number of factories in Saudi Arabia has increased by 50% in the last year, with over 10,000 industrial facilities, the Kingdom expects to host 32,000 manufacturing facilities by 2035. About Carrier Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating solutions that matter for people and our planet for generations to come. From the beginning, we've led in inventing new technologies and entirely new industries. Today, we continue to lead because we have a world-class, diverse workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything we do. For more information, visit corporate.carrier.com or follow Carrier on social media at @Carrier. About Alat Alat is a company focused on transforming global industries (electronics and industrials) and creating a world class manufacturing hub in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia powered by clean energy to build a better tomorrow. Alat will deliver sustainable manufacturing to help global companies reduce their emissions and move towards carbon zero manufacturing. Alat, a PIF company, is an essential enabler of the Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification, industrial development, innovation, and job creation. Alat's primary goal is to ensure that global companies set up sustainable manufacturing solutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, benefitting from abundant green energy resources, the country's unique geolocation and its investments in technology. Initially its key strategic business areas will be semiconductors, smart devices, smart buildings, smart appliances, smart health, advanced industrials and next gen infrastructure technologies. For more information visit www.alat.com Alat, Tomorrow Made Better. Contact: SOURCE Carrier Global Corporation HOUSTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allthenticate , announced a new integration with Ping Identity , a leading provider of seamless and secure digital experiences, leveraging PingOne DaVinci, a no-code identity orchestration service. The partnership will enhance enterprise security by simplifying and enhancing enterprise security to enable seamless, passwordless authentication experiences across multiple platforms. Allthenticate joins a growing network of technology partners developing integrations with DaVinci through the Ping Identity Global Technology Partner Program . Partner solutions that integrate with DaVinci deliver an improved customer experience in a fraction of the time through easy drag-and-drop design of digital user journeys across multiple applications and ecosystems. Allthenticate Integrates with Ping Identity to Elevate Enterprise Security with Streamlined Passwordless Authentication Post this Leveraging DaVinci, Allthenticate provides businesses with a robust and user-friendly authentication journey, integrating passwordless authentication mechanisms that are compatible with a wide variety of platforms. This integration aligns with the growing need for robust yet seamless security solutions in the enterprise sector. "Our main objective at Allthenticate is to strike a balance between usability and security in every stage of our processes. This approach leads to streamlined operations for administrators, management, and end-users," said Chad Spensky, the CEO of Allthenticate. "Our integration with Ping Identity's DaVinci ensures a seamless experience for all users, thereby enhancing the overall security experience." "There is an increasing importance to deliver unified access and VIP experiences both online and in-person, including delivering a rockstar mode for key use cases," explains Darrell Geusz, Product Lead for Neo at Ping Identity "Allthenticate does just that and more, and their DaVinci connector makes it easy to deploy within Ping's ecosystem." "Ping Identity is committed to expanding our technology partner ecosystem to deliver better, more frictionless customer experiences," said Loren Russon, the SVP of product management at Ping Identity. "Our partnership with Allthenticate leverages DaVinci's seamless orchestration to ensure dynamic user journeys are delivered quickly and efficiently at every stage of the user journey." For more information on Allthenticate's work with Ping Identity, visit the Integration Directory. About Allthenticate Allthenticate is sweeping the world of security with its cutting-edge passwordless authentication and access control solutions. Our technology simplifies the management of both physical and digital assets, offering unparalleled security and convenience for enterprises worldwide. Learn more at https://www.allthenticate.com/ About Ping Identity At Ping Identity, we believe in making digital experiences both secure and seamless for all users, without compromise. That's digital freedom. We let enterprises combine our best-in-class identity solutions with third-party services they already use to remove passwords, prevent fraud, support Zero Trust, or anything in between. This can be accomplished through a simple drag-and-drop canvas. That's why more than half of the Fortune 100 choose Ping Identity to protect digital interactions for their users while making experiences frictionless. On August 23, 2023, Ping Identity and ForgeRock joined together to deliver more choice, deeper expertise, and a more complete identity solution for customers and partners. Learn more at www.pingidentity.com . Director of Marketing Devin Finch [email protected] 833.510.4424 Follow us on LinkedIn: Allthenticate Follow Us on Instagram: @allthenticate Follow us on X: @allthenticate Ping Identity Media Relations Megan Johnson [email protected] 757.635.2807 Follow Us on Twitter: @PingIdentity Join us on LinkedIn: Ping Identity Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: PingIdentityTV Like Us on Facebook: PingIdentityPage SOURCE Allthenticate INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Center for Manufacturing & Innovation (ACMI) today announced Munitions Campus Indiana. The project, a private-public partnership leveraging the Department of Defense (DOD)'s $75M Munitions Campus program award to ACMI Federal and an estimated $300M of private capital for developing infrastructure, is an industrial real estate development to support scaling and innovation in munitions-related areas. The Munitions Campus program was established through the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Resilience (IBR) through its Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) Directorate. "This program is an important pathfinder effort to develop a new public-private partnership model, stimulating private investment even in a market such as munitions, where DOD has traditionally shouldered nearly the entire cost burden," said Anthony Di Stasio, MCEIP Director. "This approach will stretch the taxpayer dollar much further, enabling us to accelerate growth of the domestic industrial base, maintaining America's technological and industrial edge." "ACMI is proud to be leading this important project to support innovation, scaling production and the unique needs of this supply chain," said John Burer, founder of ACMI. "This is a first-of-its-kind project that is expected to attract thousands of jobs and bring billions in economic development to the State of Indiana." ACMI Properties will construct the facilities in a hub and spoke configuration, with a R&D-oriented campus located near Indianapolis and other sites under consideration, including some adjacent to Crane Army Ammunition Activity and Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane). "Crane Army and NSWC Crane are the ideal partners to take on this important project," said Pam Clark, Ecosystem Manager for ACMI and former U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) Division Chief. "The longstanding relationship we will build with Crane was a key factor in selecting Indiana for the munition campus investment. The partnership is testament to the commitment to deliver technology that is critical for our defense and national security." "ACMI will develop a series of buildings designed to support the unique needs of campus tenants," said Simon Shewmaker, Head of Development for ACMI Properties. "Tenants focused on R&D and prototyping will naturally align with facilities near Indianapolis while facilities near Crane will focus on scaled production, creating a pathway to develop and deploy new technologies in the market." The Purdue Energetic Research Center (PERC), one of the nation's leading academic organizations in comprehensive energetics materials research, will lend research expertise to the project. "We need to modernize how we make energetics," said Steve Beaudoin, director of the Purdue Energetics Research Center (PERC). "We need to get to profitable, sustainable, and responsive domestic manufacturing of these materials. This initiative supports both developing a more resilient supply chain and bringing the ability to manufacture energetics back to our shores. PERC is pleased to support this important effort." Support for scaling production and the munitions supply chain was a key objective for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, MCEIP Directorate. Leveraging private capital to develop platforms supporting cross-Services priorities is a novel approach to supporting DOD needs and may be applied to other targeted areas. "Crane Army is eager to work with industry partners who can complement our ability to provide munitions to the warfighter," said Anthony Fabrizio, Deputy Commander of Crane Army Ammunition Activity. "The Army recognizes the need to modernize, and the Munitions Campus has the potential to help us bridge that gap." ACMI Properties is focused on developing industry-centered campuses to address the infrastructure gap for companies between startup ideation and scaling phases. These next-generation industry campuses are designed to scale manufacturing capacity. They will also create dynamic spaces for innovation and growth focused on critical industry sectors that are important for national security and economic development. "It is exciting to see these campuses come to Indiana," said Ms. Jenna Dix, Director of Engagement at NSWC Crane. "This innovation environment for industry can help to revolutionize the production of energetics, reducing the time it takes to have these technologies ready for DOD use." For media inquiries, please contact: ACMI Dan Palumbo [email protected] 301.875.2356 For more information as well as leasing inquiries, visit https://acmiproperties.com/ . About ACMI The American Center for Manufacturing & Innovation (ACMI) is committed to revitalizing the United States' industrial base through strategic investments in emerging businesses in critical sectors. ACMI's approach, through its affiliates ACMI Federal, ACMI Capital, and ACMI Properties, aims to consolidate funding, resources, and expertise to close gaps in the US industrial base, enhance supply chain resiliency, and accelerate innovation. About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy (OASD IBP) The OASD IBP works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the warfighter now and in the future. About Crane Army Ammunition Activity Crane Army Ammunition Activity produces and provides conventional munitions in support of U.S. Army and Joint Force readiness. It is part of the Joint Munitions Command and the U.S. Army Materiel Command, which include arsenals, depots, activities and ammunition plants. Established Oct. 1977, it is located on Naval Support Activity Crane. About NSWC Crane NSWC Crane is a naval laboratory and a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) with mission areas in Expeditionary Warfare, Strategic Missions and Electromagnetic Warfare. The warfare center is responsible for multi-domain, multi- spectral, full life cycle support of technologies and systems enhancing capability to today's Warfighter. SOURCE ACMI Stowers scientists uncover how sea lamprey brain development is remarkably similar to that of humans KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The sea lamprey, a 500-million-year-old animal with a sharp-toothed suction cup for a mouth, is the thing of nightmares. A new study from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered that the hindbrainthe part of the brain controlling vital functions like blood pressure and heart rateof both sea lampreys and humans is built using an extraordinarily similar molecular and genetic toolkit. Montage of a sea monster. Top and left images are adult sea lampreys. On the right is a fluorescence microscopy image of a developing sea lamprey embryo. Research from the lab of Investigator Robb Krumlauf, Ph.D., published on February 20, 2024 in Nature Communications offers a glimpse into how the brains of ancient animals evolved. The team unexpectedly uncovered that a crucial molecular cue is very broadly required during vertebrate hindbrain development. "This study on the hindbrain is essentially a window into the distant past and serves as a model for understanding the evolution of complexity," said co-author Hugo Parker, Ph.D. Like other vertebrate animals, sea lampreys have a backbone and skeleton, but they are noticeably missing a feature of their headsa jaw. Because most vertebrates, including humans, have jaws, this striking difference in sea lampreys makes them valuable models for understanding the evolution of vertebrate traits. "There was a split at the origin of vertebrates between jawless and jawed around 500 million years ago," said Alice Bedois, Ph.D., a former predoctoral researcher in the Krumlauf Lab and lead author on the study. "We wanted to understand how the vertebrate brain evolved and if there was something unique to jawed vertebrates that was lacking in their jawless relatives." Previous work from the Krumlauf Lab and the lab of Marianne Bronner, Ph.D., at the California Institute of Technology had identified that the genes structuring and subdividing the sea lamprey hindbrain are identical to those in jawed vertebrates including humans. However, these genes are part of an interconnected network or circuit that needs to be initiated and directed to build the hindbrain correctly. The new study identified a common molecular cue, while known to direct head-to-tail patterning in a wide variety of animals, as part of the gene circuitry guiding hindbrain patterning in sea lampreys. "We found that not only are the same genes but also the same cue is involved in sea lamprey hindbrain development, suggesting this process is ancestral to all vertebrates," said Bedois. This cue is called retinoic acid, commonly known as vitamin A. While the researchers knew that retinoic acid cues the gene circuitry to build the hindbrain in complex species, it was not thought to be involved for more primitive animals like sea lampreys. Surprisingly, they found that the sea lamprey core hindbrain circuit is also initiated by retinoic acid, providing evidence that these sea monsters and humans are much more closely related than anticipated. "People thought that because sea lampreys lack a jaw, their hindbrain was not formed like other vertebrates," said Krumlauf. "We have shown that this basic part of the brain is built in exactly the same way as mice and even humans." There are well known signaling molecules that inform the fate of cells during development. Now, the researchers have found that retinoic acid is another major player that cues vital steps in development like formation of the brain stem. In addition, if hindbrain formation is a conserved feature for all vertebrates, other mechanisms must be responsible to explain their incredible diversity. "We all derived from a common ancestor," said Bedois. "Sea lampreys have provided an additional clue. Now we need to look even further back in evolutionary time to discover when the gene circuitry governing hindbrain formation first evolved." Additional author: Marianne Bronner, Ph.D. This work was funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (award: R35NS111564) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and by institutional support from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH. About the Stowers Institute for Medical Research Founded in 1994 through the generosity of Jim Stowers, founder of American Century Investments, and his wife, Virginia, the Stowers Institute for Medical Research is a non-profit, biomedical research organization with a focus on foundational research. Its mission is to expand our understanding of the secrets of life and improve life's quality through innovative approaches to the causes, treatment, and prevention of diseases. The Institute consists of 20 independent research programs. Of the approximately 500 members, over 370 are scientific staff that include principal investigators, technology center directors, postdoctoral scientists, graduate students, and technical support staff. Learn more about the Institute at www.stowers.org and about its graduate program at www.stowers.org/gradschool. Media Contact: Joe Chiodo, Head of Media Relations 724.462.8529 [email protected] SOURCE Stowers Institute for Medical Research PHOENIX, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) named Angela Goodman, owner of Famous Toastery in Ashburn, Va., as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year. Goodman was honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, Ariz., for being an outstanding franchise establishment owner-operator. Famous Toastery franchise owner Angela Goodman is recognized at the International Franchise Association 2024 Annual Convention as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year. Goodman has owned her hometown restaurant in Ashburn, VA, since 2016. Goodman spent 15 years in corporate America working for a Fortune 500 company prior to opening her restaurant. For more information on franchising with Famous Toastery, please visit: http://www.bestbreakfastfranchise.com/. "Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream," said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. "We are proud to recognize Angela with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt her work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact." The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon. After frequenting one of Famous Toastery's original locations as a guest, and spending 15 years in corporate America working for a Fortune 500 company, Goodman decided she wanted more of a connection to her community. She took a chance on herself and decided to bring Famous Toastery a brand that aligned with her own core values to her new hometown in Northern Virginia. While she entered the restaurant industry with no prior experience in 2016, she has since become a leader among the brand by building relationships with staff and customers alike to create success. Goodman continues to foster those community ties as she helps grow Famous Toastery's reputation for Famously Fresh food in a welcoming atmosphere. "I am honored to be nominated by Famous Toastery for this award," said Goodman. "Being selected by the IFA and joining a list of incredible leaders is very humbling. It is great to have my efforts recognized, and I'm ready to pay it forward and help other franchisees." "It is very exciting for the Won Life Brands family to have Angela of Famous Toastery and the Rosario family, who own and operate two Flour Power Studios in Georgia, awarded this prestigious honor," said Robert Maynard, Founder of Won Life Brands. "They are both role model franchisees for our brands and exemplify what it means to represent Won Life Brands within their communities." There are over 800,000 franchised businesses across the U.S., providing over 8.7 million direct jobs and generating over $850 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities. ABOUT FAMOUS TOASTERY Charlotte, N.C. based Famous Toastery is a breakfast, brunch and lunch franchise that encourages its guests, team and franchise owners to "Be Famous" in their local community by offering "Famously Fresh" meals and a much-needed hub for friends, families and neighbors to get together in a comfortable atmosphere where "every server is your server." The brand began in 2005 before evolving into a franchise system in 2013 and growing to 25 locations today. In 2023, Famous Toastery was awarded the naming sponsorship rights for The Famous Toastery Bowl played at UNC Charlotte. Famous Toastery has earned recognition from Restaurant Business' The Future 50 (2019, 2020), Entrepreneur Magazine's Top Food Franchises (2019) and Franchise 500 Rankings (2019, 2022), as well as CNBC as a top franchise to buy (2018), FSR Magazine as a Top 14 restaurant chains ready for lift-off (2018), Inc. 5000's list of fastest-growing companies, and Franchise Times' Top 200+ franchise opportunities (2018). For more information about Famous Toastery, visit www.famoustoastery.com. To learn about franchising opportunities, please visit www.bestbreakfastfranchise.com. ABOUT WON LIFE BRANDS Won Life Brands is a premier growth and development company focused on delivering excellent experiences in the communities it serves. Won Life Brands operates company-owned properties and offers franchise opportunities across their brands, which includes Famous Toastery, Cartridge World, Flour Power, BBS: Your Big Burger Spot, Abby's Better Nut Butter and VaVia. ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the approximately 806,270 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.7 million direct jobs, $858.5 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development. SOURCE Famous Toastery GREEN BAY, Wis., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) announced today that Management expects to present at the 2024 RBC Capital Markets Global Financial Institutions Conference in New York, NY at 1:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 and expects to meet with investors throughout the conference. Interested parties can access a live webcast of the presentation through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at http://investor.associatedbank.com. A replay of the presentation is expected to be accessible for 90 days after the presentation date. An investor presentation is expected to be available prior to the conference and can be accessed via Associated Banc-Corp's website at http://investor.associatedbank.com. ABOUT ASSOCIATED BANC-CORP Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) has total assets of $41 billion and is the largest bank holding company based in Wisconsin. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Associated is a leading Midwest banking franchise, offering a full range of financial products and services from nearly 200 banking locations serving more than 100 communities throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. The company also operates loan production offices in Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio and Texas. Associated Bank, N.A. is an Equal Housing Lender, Equal Opportunity Lender and Member FDIC. More information about Associated Banc-Corp is available at www.associatedbank.com. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Statements made in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This includes any statements regarding management's plans, objectives, or goals for future operations, products or services, and forecasts of its revenues, earnings, or other measures of performance. Such forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "estimate," "should," "will," "intend," "target," "outlook," "project," "guidance," or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations and, by their nature, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Factors which may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in such forward-looking statements include those identified in the Company's most recent Form 10-K and subsequent SEC filings. Such factors are incorporated herein by reference. Investor Contact: Ben McCarville Vice President | Director of Investor Relations 920-491-7059 Media Contact: Marilka Velez Senior Vice President | Senior Director of Marketing 920-491-7518 SOURCE Associated Banc-Corp The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative partners with The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA for a series of inspiring events on May 810, 2024 Leading humanitarians will come together to discuss the world's most pressing humanitarian issues and announce the 2024 Aurora Prize Laureate LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced that a special series of events will be held from May 810, 2024 in Los Angeles, CA. The events, including the 2024 Aurora Prize Ceremony and the Human Rights and Humanitarian Forum, are being organized in partnership with The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA. The events are co-chaired by Dr. Noubar Afeyan, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, Founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering, and Co-Founder and Chairman of Moderna, and Dr. Eric Esrailian, UCLA professor and Chief of the Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases. Dr. Esrailian, also an Emmy-nominated film producer and entrepreneur, led the efforts to establish The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA in 2017. "We are honored to join forces with The Promise Institute for Human Rights to support outstanding humanitarians and human rights defenders putting themselves at risk to help others," said Dr. Afeyan. "Over the past eight years, Aurora has fostered a global network of like-minded individuals committed to this important work, and we look forward to the events in Los Angeles to further elevate the voices of grassroots activists everywhere and show the world the power of each individual to bring about positive change." "The 2024 Aurora Prize events in Los Angeles will offer guests and participants a chance to express their appreciation to those who selflessly help others in need. People will hopefully come away inspired to channel that gratitude into action, join us in this global movement, and contribute to our common cause," said Dr. Esrailian, co-chair of the events. "By shining a light on the best of humanity, which often emerges in the darkest of times, we intend to raise awareness both in the US and around the world of ordinary human beings whose sense of compassion and justice motivates them to do extraordinary things." The 2024 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity Laureate will be announced during the Aurora Prize Ceremony, with the Laureate selected from the Aurora Humanitarians shortlisted in September 2023. The prize award will enable the Laureate to continue the cycle of giving and supporting grassroots humanitarians and organizations that give a second chance to people in need. The Human Rights and Humanitarian Forum and other events will bring together leading experts in the field for insightful discussions on a range of topics including gender justice, women's empowerment, global health crisis and education. About the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity is a $1 million global award that recognizes those who risk their lives, health, or freedom to save the lives, health, or freedom of others. It has shone a spotlight on some of the world's most pressing and overlooked crises since its foundation in 2015. The 2024 Aurora Humanitarians shortlisted for the 2024 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity were named on September 18, 2023, at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting in New York City. About the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is a foundation that seeks to address on-the-ground humanitarian challenges around the world with the focus on helping the most destitute. Its mission is rooted in the Armenian history as the Initiative was founded on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors and strives to transform this experience into a global movement. About The Promise Institute for Human Rights The Promise Institute for Human Rights, based in the UCLA School of Law, is the innovative center for human rights education, research, and impact for the UCLA campus. Leveraging the creativity and dynamism of Los Angeles, we seek to reimagine the potential of human rights to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Frost & Sullivan, the global Growth Pipeline Company, proudly announces a significant milestone in its commitment to knowledge sharing and industry collaboration through a strategic knowledge partnership with the international Automechanika trade fair brand. LONDON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan is joining forces with Automechanika, the leading international trade fair for the automotive aftermarket, to enhance their offerings to industry professionals. This strategic alliance is designed to deliver a continuous flow of valuable content at Automechanika's worldwide trade fairs, covering pivotal areas such as market trends, technology, innovation, and emerging business models, each contributing to transformative growth across the entirety of the automotive value chain. Digitisation, as a disruptive trend in the aftermarket, finds relevance across all global markets. Frost & Sullivan valued global manufacturer-level replacement parts revenues at $470.9 billion in 2023. While vehicle ageing and average annual mileage will drive aftermarket demand, trends like electrification, vehicle autonomy, and remote diagnostics will boost the outlook further. Kamal Shah, Associate Partner & Head of DACH Region at Frost & Sullivan: "Our sector analysis underscores the pivotal role of digital advancements in steering the aftermarket towards unprecedented growth. As the industry transforms, businesses are encouraged to embrace innovation." "This partnership marks a powerful synergy between Frost & Sullivan's expertise in the automotive aftermarket sector and Automechanika's commitment to delivering exceptional trade show experiences. Through our strategic alliance, both parties aim to elevate the industry's knowledge-sharing landscape and provide unparalleled value to participants and exhibitors at each of Automechanika's 13 events around the globe in 2024." Michael Johannes, Vice President Mobility & Logistics at Messe Frankfurt: "We have been utilising Frost & Sullivan's industry expertise for many years. Now we want to intensify our co-operation in terms of content and use it for the strategic orientation of our brand. We expect the collaboration to provide new and important impetus for the further development of our international Automechanika trade fairs. The knowledge of trends and new industry players in markets worldwide is invaluable for interlinking content throughout our international events. We are excited about the co-operation." As a Global Knowledge Partner, Frost & Sullivan is excited to actively contribute to the knowledge enrichment at Automechanika's portfolio of international trade fairs spanning four continents, as well as the potential impact this collaboration will have on advancing industry knowledge and fostering innovation within the automotive aftermarket. Frost & Sullivan is offering members of the Automechanika community a 20% discount on the list price of all Mobility Growth Opportunity Analytics on the company's Online Store. About Frost & Sullivan Frost & Sullivan's Growth Pipeline Engine, transformational strategies and best-practice models drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth opportunities. Is your company prepared to survive and thrive through the coming transformation? Your Transformational Growth Journey Starts Here: https://insights.frost.com/gpdialog Contact: Kristina Menzefricke Tel.: +44 (0)20 331 01228 [email protected] About Messe Frankfurt Messe Frankfurt is the world's largest trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. With more than 2,500* employees at 30 locations, the company generates annual sales of around 715* million. Thanks to its far-reaching ties with the relevant sectors and to its international sales network, the Group looks after the business interests of its customers effectively. A comprehensive range of services both onsite and online ensures that customers worldwide enjoy consistently high quality and flexibility when planning, organising and running their events. The wide range of services includes renting exhibition grounds, trade fair construction and marketing, personnel and food services. With its headquarters in Frankfurt am Main, the company is owned by the City of Frankfurt (60 percent) and the State of Hesse (40 percent). For more information, please visit our website at: www.messefrankfurt.com * Preliminary figures for 2018 Contact: Dr. Ann-Katrin Klusak Tel.: +49 69 75 75-5621 [email protected] SOURCE Frost & Sullivan The world-famous American actor and director Tom Cruise has met the children of his new passion, Russian socialite Elsina Khairova, who is the daughter of a Putin-allied politician and former State Duma deputy. The 36-year-old Russian, who has long lived in the UK, has a son and a daughter from her first marriage to Russian oligarch and diamond trader Dmitry Tsvetkov. ADVERTISIMENT Things got so serious between Cruise, 61, and Khairova that he met her children. At least, that's the conclusion reached by Page Six journalists after talking to a source close to the couple. So, as we noted above, Elsina Khairova has two children. The woman regularly shares photos with her daughter, but she hardly ever shows her son. He can be seen only in a few photos from almost seven years ago. After analyzing Cruz's girlfriend's social media, we find out that the boy is now 13 years old and his name is Tamir. ADVERTISIMENT As for her daughter, she often appears on her mother's social media. The girl's name is Eva, she was born in September 2017. Just two days ago, Khairova posted fresh photos with her daughter from a ski resort. ADVERTISIMENT It is known that Khairova and her ex-husband divorced in 2021. Their breakup made international headlines as millions were at stake, including a mansion in Surrey, England, five London apartments, a Bentley and a Ferrari, Cartier jewelry, and works of art by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Marc Chagall. Tsvetkov said that the divorce cost him 150 million ($188 million) and that he spent 10 million ($12 million) on clothes and 2 million ($2.5 million) on handbags during the 11 years of marriage. The star of the cult film series "Mission Impossible" met the divorced millionaire Khaira when a friend brought her to one of his exclusive Sunday tea parties at his penthouse in Hyde Park, London. According to the sources, Cruise feels "more comfortable" in London than in Los Angeles and throws weekly afternoon parties there for an elite crowd. "He has butlers and homemade cakes, and it's all very British. Cruz has hired staff and a DJ, and the guests have signed non-disclosure agreements," the insider revealed. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZ.UA previously reported, Tom Cruise spends a lot of time with Elsina Khairova, but still tries to avoid her in public places to avoid getting caught by cameras. For the sake of the Russian woman, who lives in the UK, the actor is in London and regularly visits his beloved at home. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! First-Ever Program in the Country to Offer At-Home Self-Collection of Samples for HPV Testing SINGAPORE, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology company, today announced a strategic partnership with Camtech Health, a digital health company focused on at-home health testing, to advance cervical cancer screening by offering the first-ever option for women in Singapore to self-collect a sample in the privacy of their own home. BD announced a strategic partnership with Camtech Health to advance cervical cancer screening by offering the first-ever option for women in Singapore to self-collect a sample in the privacy of their own home. The program combines the Camtech Health HPV (human papillomavirus) test for self-collection with the BD Onclarity HPV Assay, which is a clinically validated test that can simultaneously detect 14 high-risk HPV strains (or "genotypes"). The program objective is to improve the rate of cervical cancer screening in Singapore, where less than half of eligible women are currently being tested. "For women in Singapore, lack of time, embarrassment, fear and inconvenience are among the key barriers to screeningi, and before now, Singapore only offered HPV testing via hospital or clinic settings with a speculum examination and a clinician collection," stated Dr. Jeff Andrews, vice president of Global Medical Affairs at BD. "Cervical cancer is preventable, precancer is curable, and programs like this help to support the national goal of cervical cancer elimination. Not only does self-collection afford women greater access to HPV testing by enabling them to collect a sample in privacy at a time and place of their choosing, but they can also feel confident that the reliability of self-collected samples is comparable to those collected by a clinicianii." In late 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched its Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, recognizing the potential to virtually eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat, recognizing the potential to eliminate cervical cancer in our lifetimeiii. The strategy established clear targets to achieve by 2030 for HPV vaccination coverage (>90%), screening coverage (>70%) and access to treatment (>90%). At-home collection can help address the urgent public health challenge of reaching women who do not attend routine cervical cancer screening. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women globally, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths in 2020. iv globally, with an estimated 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths in 2020. Almost all cervical cancer cases (more than 95%) are caused by a persistent HPV infection , an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact. i , an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact. In Singapore , cervical cancer ranks as the 10th most frequent cancer among women and the 4th most frequent cancer among women between 30 and 39 years of age. v , cervical cancer ranks as the 10th most frequent cancer among women and the 4th most frequent cancer among women between 30 and 39 years of age. Cervical cancer screening among all women in Singapore aged 25 74 decreased by 17% between 2007 and 2019; from 58% to 48%. vi aged 25 74 decreased by 17% between 2007 and 2019; from 58% to 48%. Among those aged 25-29, the decline has been more precipitousfrom nearly 50% in 2007 to only 21% in 2019.v "Making at-home self-collection available is the first step to empowering health and well-being, but making the test easy to use is just as important," said Kuok Meng-Han, Chairman of Camtech Health. "The Camtech Health HPV test with the Camtech Health app is completed in simple steps and then sent via postage-paid packaging provided in the kit. The sample is analyzed using the BD Onclarity HPV assay, and the BD Viper LT fully automated integrated molecular testing system, and physician-reviewed results are provided on the app with a virtual consultation to discuss any abnormalities." HPVs are a large group of related viruses. Each virus in the group is given a number, which is called an HPV genotypevii (or "type"). BD Onclarity is the only FDA-approved assay that tests for an extended set of HPV types individually, and particularly for HPV52 and HPV33/58, three HPV types that pose a high-risk for causing cervical cancer in Singapore. Most clinically validated tests report multiple HPV types in a single pooled result, which can mask the true risk of developing cervical cancer. Being able to identify the high-risk genotypes that are prevalent in cervical cancers in the country is critical to the detection and prevention of cervical cancer. "Providing women the ability to self-collect in the convenience of their own home is critical to improving their access to cervical cancer screening, and empowering women to take charge of their own health, especially among underserved communities in Singapore who might be deterred from seeking healthcare," said Dr. Ida Ismail-Pratt, Advisor of the Alliance for Active Action against HPV (A4HPV), a youth-led non-profit committed to increasing awareness about HPV and its related cancers, by working on effective strategies for equitable and affordable cervical cancer screening access across the Commonwealth. "With less than 50% of women in Singapore regularly screening for cervical cancer, it is heartening that this self-collection option is finally available in Singapore for the first time. We hope that this additional option will help Singapore to reach the WHO's cervical cancer screening goal of 70% by 2030, and truly leaving no one behind.'' Combining HPV self-collection with an assay that individually identified more kinds of HPV allows clinicians to focus on those women at highest risk while not overtreating those at very low risk by allowing risk stratification directly on the screening sampleVI. The BD Onclarity HPV Assay received the industry's first CE Mark for HPV screening from at-home self-collected vaginal samples. Camtech Health is a digital health company that is focused on empowering people across Singapore and Southeast Asia to take control of their health and well-being and lead healthier and fuller lives. Camtech does this by integrating multiple disciplines to deliver a seamless sample-to-insight testing experience using home self-collection test kits all in the convenience and comfort of their own home. For more information or to order the Camtech Health HPV Test, please visit www.camtech-health.com/health-tests or download the Camtech Health App (available on iOS and Android). The home self-collection kits are also available through SOG Health, a leading healthcare service provider dedicated to holistic health and wellness services to the modern family with a long and established track record in Singapore providing Obstetrics and Gynecology services. https://www.sog.com.sg/about-sog/ About BD Onclarity HPV Assay The BD Onclarity HPV Assay detects and identifies 14 high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types in a single analysis and provides genotyping information from specimens collected for cervical cancer screening purposes using both BD SurePath Preservative Fluid and Hologic PreservCyt Solution, as well as in the Cervical Brush Diluent tube (not approved in the United States). The assay is for use in accordance with clinical guidelines and within the scope of local regulatory authorizations as part of a comprehensive approach to cervical cancer screening. The BD Onclarity HPV Assay has FDA approval for clinical use in cytology-based screening with ASC-US triage, in co-testing paradigm, and in primary HPV screening. The assay has also met international criteria for primary HPV screening. BD Onclarity HPV Assay has FDA approval for use in vaccinated women. As the previously vaccinated subpopulation ages, the screening population will progressively include women with reduced prevalence of HPV 16 and 18, increasing the value of extended genotype reporting in a mixed population of vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Visit bd.com and pages.bd.com/extended-genotyping to learn more. About BD BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company supports the heroes on the frontlines of health care by developing innovative technology, services and solutions that help advance both clinical therapy for patients and clinical process for health care providers. BD and its more than 70,000 employees have a passion and commitment to help enhance the safety and efficiency of clinicians' care delivery process, enable laboratory scientists to accurately detect disease and advance researchers' capabilities to develop the next generation of diagnostics and therapeutics. BD has a presence in virtually every country and partners with organizations around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. By working in close collaboration with customers, BD can help enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety and expand access to health care. For more information on BD, please visit bd.com or connect with us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/bd1/, X (formerly Twitter) @BDandCo or Instagram @becton_dickinson Contacts: BD corporate media Investors Troy Kirkpatrick VP, Public Relations 858.617.2361 [email protected] BD Singapore local media Keefe Chee Segment Marketing Lead, Life Sciences 65.9199.3584 [email protected] Adam Reiffe BD Investor Relations 201.847.6927 [email protected] i Chua B, et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Apr 26;18(9):4586. ii Arbyn, M. et al. (2018) Detecting cervical precancer and reaching underscreened women by using HPV testing on self samples: updated meta-analyses. Bmj 363, k4823; Cadman, L. et al. (2021) A randomised comparison of different vaginal self-sampling devices and urine for human papillomavirus testing - Predictors 5.1. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev Published Online First on January 29, 2021; DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-20-1226; Rohner, E. et al. (2020) Test Accuracy of Human Papillomavirus in Urine for Detection of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia. J Clin Microbiol 58 (3) iii https://www.who.int/news/item/17-11-2020-a-cervical-cancer-free-future-first-ever-global-commitment-to-eliminate-a-cancer iv https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer v https://www.nrdo.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/default-document-library/scr-ar-2021-web-report.pdf?sfvrsn=591fc02c_0 vi National Population Health Survey 2019, ISBN 978-981-14-5641-1. Epidemiology & Disease Control Division and Policy, Research & Surveillance Group, Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Board, Singapore. vii https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/hpv/hpv-and-cancer-info.html SOURCE BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) DUBLIN, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Blood Warmers Global Market Report 2024" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global blood warmers market, vital for improving patient care and surgical outcomes, is experiencing a significant upswing according to a newly published research report. This comprehensive analysis captures the burgeoning market, which is projected to swell from $1.15 billion in 2023 to an anticipated $1.26 billion in 2024, marking a remarkable CAGR of 9.3%. With surgical procedures and trauma cases on the rise, the demand for blood warmers intensifies. These devices are essential for preventing hypothermia during surgeries, especially with the notable increase of 54% in surgical interventions in 2021 alone. The report highlights factors such as technological advancements, increased use in military operations, and the expanding role of blood warmers in obstetrics and neonatal care, which are collectively catalyzing the market's expansion. Forecasting ahead, the market is set to reach $1.74 billion by 2028, at an 8.5% CAGR. Key growth accelerators include burgeoning demand in point-of-care settings, the surge in blood transfusion services, and breakthroughs in device portability and critical care integration. Significantly, rising healthcare expenditures, which reached $331 billion in 2022, have played a pivotal role in fueling the accessibility and development of blood warmer technologies. The report examines the shifting dynamics, with strategic partnerships such as the collaboration between QinFlow and Life-Assist pointing to a thriving sector that continues to innovate and broaden its market presence. North America holds the reins as the largest contributor to market size while Asia-Pacific is surging forward as the fastest-growing region. Increased surgical procedures necessitating temperature control during operations Growing healthcare investment in advanced medical technologies Innovative products like MEQU's M Station enhancing efficiency and safety in transfusions Strategic collaborations bolstering product distribution and performance A highlight of the report details the acquisition of Smiths Medical by ICU Medical Inc. in January 2022, a strategic move expanding ICU Medical's influence in infusion therapy realms. The synergy between these companies underscores a market that is continuously evolving to meet acute medical needs effectively. The analysis within the blood warmers market report covers diverse types of devices, ranging from portable to non-portable variants, and their applications across surgeries, acute care, newborn care, and home care settings. The report delivers indispensable insights for end users such as hospitals, ambulatory services, and defense forces, to navigate the healthcare landscape proficiently. With coverage across diverse geographical regions and countries, from Australia to the USA and Canada, the report also explores the nuances of market values and the extensive range of products that make up the blood warmer ecosystem. As the market continues to adapt and grow, the blood warmers research report offers a panoramic view of the current industry status and prospective developments. This report is an unparalleled resource for stakeholders seeking to understand and leverage the opportunities in the rapidly evolving blood warmers market landscape. Key Markets Covered: By Type: Portable blood warmers; Non-portable blood warmers By Application: Surgery; Acute care; Newborn care; Homecare; Other Applications By End-User: Hospitals Or Clinics; Ambulatory services; Defense forces; Rescue forces Companies Profiled 3M Company Company Kimberly-Clark Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) Stryker Corporation GE Healthcare Grifols S.A ICU Medical Gentherm Medical SARSTEDT AG & Co. KG Vyaire Medical Inc. Meridian Medical Technologies Mennen Medical QED Medical MTRE Advanced Technologies Ltd. Sino Medical-Device Technology Co. Ltd. Geratherm Medical AG Paragon Medical EMIT Corporation Belmont Medical Estill Medical Technologies Inc. the Surgical Company PTM Smisson-Cartledge Biomedical Barkey GmbH & Co. KG Thermal Angel Enthermics Medical Systems For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/n11cu3 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 SOURCE Research and Markets Jon Carlson, CEO and president of the company, steps down after 35 years of service, welcomes Tim Lenway as the new president of Braun Intertec MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Jon Carlson, Chief Executive Officer and President of Braun Intertec, has announced he is stepping down after a 35-year career. A legacy in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, Carlson's career started as an environmental technician at Braun Intertec in 1988, being steadily promoted to President in 2007 and then Chief Executive Officer in 2009. During his tenure as CEO, Carlson oversaw firm expansion from approximately 350 employees to more than 1000 employees with offices spread throughout the Midwest, South, and Southeast. Jon Carlson, Braun Intertec President and CEO (2009-2024) Tim Lenway, New Braun Intertec President Carlson plans to spend well-earned time with his family, and his stepping down will also free up additional capacity to continue his work in the AEC industry as he plans to continue to serve as a director on other AEC-industry Boards and not-for-profit boards. As Carlson communicated with the Board about his resignation, he indicated that now is a good time as we are coming off a record-setting year and are setup for a great 2024. With Braun Intertec in a position of strength and with a strong leadership team, Carlson felt Braun Intertec was in a good position to welcome the next era of leadership. Following Carlson's resignation, the Braun Intertec Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Tim Lenway has been named President of Braun Intertec effective February 16, 2024. "I have confidence in Tim's ability to lead our company to the next level of growth," said Jon Carlson. "Tim's client-centric approach, deep understanding of our organization, and most recent leadership of our Environmental, Nondestructive Examination, and Engineering & Testing Divisions, make him the right leader to continue to drive the future vision of our firm." "I am humbled and excited to be named as the next President of Braun Intertec and grateful for the confidence placed in me by our Board," said Tim Lenway. "Partnering with our firm-wide leadership and the Board, I am confident that we will continue to thrive and achieve even greater success into the future as a growing and sustainable 100% ESOP organization." Carlson remains committed to working with Lenway and the Board on a smooth transition. "This transition is made much easier thanks to Jon's many years of leadership setting the firm up for continued success," said Lenway. Lenway brings over 20 years of experience in the AEC industry, starting with Braun Intertec in 2007. He was named a corporate officer of the company in 2018 and elected to the Board of Directors in 2020. Lenway holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Urban Planning from Minnesota State University, a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Minnesota, and MBA executive education certificates from the University of St. Thomas Opus School of Business. About Braun Intertec Based in Minneapolis, employee-owned Braun Intertec (www.braunintertec.com) is a premier engineering, environmental consulting, and testing firm with more than 1,000 employees located in 35 offices across Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin. Braun Intertec also owns Edwards-Pitman Environmental, a Division of Braun Intertec, based in Atlanta, Georgia with offices in Georgia and South Carolina. SOURCE Braun Intertec BOISE, Idaho, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carrington College is pleased to announce the relocation of its Boise campus to a new facility located at 1299 North Orchard Street, Boise, ID 83706. The move represents a significant investment of close to $1 million and is part of Carrington College's commitment to offering an enriched learning environment for students in Boise and the surrounding areas. The Carrington College Boise campus will feature new laboratories and enhanced facilities designed to support the diverse educational needs of its students. The move is in line with Carrington College's mission to empower individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career. "We are excited to unveil our new campus in Boise, which reflects our dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience for our students," said Zach Jiru, Campus Director at Carrington College, Boise. "The new campus enhances our physical infrastructure and signifies our commitment to the community while fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for success in their chosen fields." The relocation will offer students improved access to resources, a more collaborative atmosphere, and an overall enriched educational experience. The new location will continue providing a range of career-focused programs including Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting, among others. Since 1967, Carrington College has provided students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's competitive job market. The relocation of the Boise campus is a testament to the institution's commitment to staying at the forefront of education and providing an outstanding learning experience. "The new Carrington College campus in Boise will provide an environment that inspires learning and collaboration," added Jiru. "We believe that this move will not only contribute to the academic success of our students, but also better position them for rewarding careers in their respective fields." Prospective students and the community at large are invited to visit the new campus and explore the opportunities it offers for personal and professional growth. Carrington College Boise will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new location on April 2, 2024, from 12-1pm. For more information on Carrington College, please visit: www.Carrington.edu Visit carrington.edu/student-consumer-information for important information on program outcomes. About Carrington College Established in 1967, Carrington College empowers students to achieve their goals, find success and make inspiring contributions to our global community. Carrington College offers a diverse range of programs that lead to a Certificate of Achievement, Associate of Science, or Bachelor of Science degree. The college offers programs which prepare students for careers in the medical, dental, veterinary and industrial trade fields. Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC), 428 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814, (415) 506-0234, an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Additional information about accreditation, including the filing of complaints against member institutions, can be found at: www.accjc.org. SOURCE Carrington College Latest initiative represents Cboe and MSCI's growing relationship and will expand Cboe's current product suite Cboe plans to offer three new options tied to MSCI's international, developed, emerging and U.S. markets benchmark indices, set to launch on March 18 , pending regulatory approval , pending regulatory approval Cboe also introduces two new volatility indices based on existing MSCI Index options and the proprietary VIX Index Methodology CHICAGO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE), the world's leading derivatives and securities exchange network, today announced a new strategic initiative in collaboration with MSCI Inc. (MSCI), a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community, to expand its suite of Cboe-MSCI Index options and volatility indices. The initiative underscores Cboe and MSCI's deepening relationship and continues to leverage the companies' combined expertise to develop innovative solutions for investors worldwide. Cboe and MSCI have collaborated successfully for many years to offer a variety of indices and tradable products. In this latest initiative, Cboe will further expand its existing MSCI Index options suite by introducing three new products based on additional MSCI global indices: Cboe MSCI World Index Options (MXWLD), Cboe MSCI ACWI Index Options (MXACW), and Cboe MSCI USA Index Options (MXUSA). These options are set to begin trading on Monday, March 18, pending regulatory approval. In addition, Cboe is broadening its volatility index suite with the launch of two new Cboe MSCI Volatility Indices: the Cboe MSCI EAFE Volatility Index (VXMXEA) and the Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Volatility Index (VXMXEF). Developed using Cboe's proprietary VIX Index methodology, these indices are based on existing MSCI EAFE Index Options (MXEA) and MSCI Emerging Markets Index Options (MXEF) and are designed to provide a transparent measure of the market's expectation of 30-day implied volatility by these respective MSCI index option classes. Similar to the VIX Index, which is designed to reflect investors' consensus view of future (30-day) expected U.S. stock market volatility, the new Cboe MSCI Volatility Indices aim to provide comparable measures for international and emerging equity market volatility. "In today's rapidly evolving landscape, investors require sophisticated tools to navigate the markets with confidence," said Catherine Clay, Global Head of Derivatives at Cboe. "Our ongoing collaboration with MSCI reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and providing solutions that empower investors to better manage risk and seize potential opportunities in the global marketplace. We are excited to expand our Cboe-MSCI toolkit with additional index options and volatility indices an enhancement that will not only broaden our customers' product choice, but also enrich the ways they interact with and analyze the global markets." Clay added, "Crucially, the three new index options, which cover developed and emerging markets, are expected to also give investors comprehensive access to gain a variety of different exposures around the globe." The new options will be based on the MSCI World Index, the MSCI ACWI Index and the MSCI USA Index, which are renowned benchmarks for measuring international, developed and emerging markets and U.S. equity performance, respectively. Significantly, both MXWLD and MXUSA options will be based on a fraction (1/100th) of the value of their underlying index. With a smaller index value, MXWLD and MXUSA options may be more accessible to a broad base of customers with diverse investment objectives, ranging from asset owners aiming to track benchmark index exposure, registered investment advisers in search of new sources of yield, or individual investors seeking straightforward exposure to options linked to global benchmark indices. "We are pleased to expand our strategic relationship with Cboe in new offerings that investors around the world can use to help them manage risk and exposure," said George Harrington, Global Head of Derivatives Licensing at MSCI. "The launch of the Cboe MSCI EAFE Volatility Index (VXMXEA) and Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Volatility Index (VXMXEF) provides the investment community with benchmarks for option investing, and Cboe's launch of options linked to the MSCI World Index, MSCI ACWI Index and MSCI USA Index further develops the ecosystem of tradable products." MXACW, MXUSA, and MXWLD will have standard options that expire on the third Friday of each month. In response to customer feedback, Cboe plans to also list five end-of-week expirations, which are expected to begin trading on March 21, 2024, pending regulatory approval. The new index options join the current suite of Cboe MSCI tradable products, which includes the Cboe MSCI EAFE Index Options (MXEA) and Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Index Options (MXEF). Like these existing offerings, the newly launched options will follow a European-style exercise (no early exercise), are cash-settled (no delivery or assignment of shares) at expiration and may potentially offer favorable tax treatment1. In addition, the new options are integrated into Cboe's existing infrastructure and will be traded and settled via the same exchange connections and clearinghouse as the current Cboe MSCI index options. For more information on Cboe MSCI Index options, visit Cboe's website. About Cboe Global Markets, Inc. Cboe Global Markets (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of market infrastructure and tradable products, delivers cutting-edge trading, clearing and investment solutions to market participants around the world. The company is committed to operating a trusted, inclusive global marketplace, providing leading products, technology and data solutions that enable participants to define a sustainable financial future. Cboe provides trading solutions and products in multiple asset classes, including equities, derivatives, FX, and digital assets, across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more, visit www.cboe.com . CBOE-C CBOE-OE Cboe and Cboe Global Markets are registered trademarks of Cboe Exchange, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Any products that have the MSCI Index or Indexes as their underlying interest are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc. or Cboe and neither MSCI Inc. nor Cboe make any representations or recommendations concerning the advisability of investing in products that have MSCI indexes as their underlying interests. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates do not recommend or make any representation as to possible benefits from any securities, futures or investments, or third-party products or services. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. is not affiliated with MSCI Inc. Investors should undertake their own due diligence regarding their securities, futures, and investment practices. This press release speaks only as of this date. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. disclaims any duty to update the information herein. Nothing in this announcement should be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell any securities or futures in any jurisdiction where the offer or solicitation would be unlawful under the laws of such jurisdiction. Nothing contained in this communication constitutes tax, legal or investment advice. Investors must consult their tax adviser or legal counsel for advice and information concerning their particular situation. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates make no warranty, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, any warranties as of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy, completeness or timeliness, the results to be obtained by recipients of the products and services described herein, or as to the ability of the indices referenced in this press release to track the performance of their respective securities, generally, or the performance of the indices referenced in this press release or any subset of their respective securities, and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies, errors. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates have not calculated, composed or determined the constituents or weightings of the securities that comprise the third-party indices referenced in this press release and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies or errors in any of the indices referenced in this press release. 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More detailed information about factors that may affect our actual results to differ may be found in our filings with the SEC, including in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other filings made from time to time with the SEC. We do not undertake, and we expressly disclaim, any duty to update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. 1 Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. Prior to buying or selling an option, a person must receive a copy of "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options." Copies are available from your broker or from The Options Clearing Corporation at 125 South Franklin Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60606 or at www.theocc.com. SOURCE Cboe Global Markets, Inc. CCBank will automate and expand its lending program for small businesses (SMB) with Lendio's Intelligent Lending. LEHI, Utah, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, financial technology platform Lendio announced that Utah-based CCBank has chosen the Lendio Intelligent Lending solution to power its small business lending. Historically for banks, providing an entirely digital loan experience that serves the full spectrum of SMB borrowers has been a hurdle to scaling SMB banking, mainly due to the manual effort involved in traditional underwriting processes. Now, through Lendio Intelligent Lending, CCBank will be able to automate its underwriting processes, especially for smaller loan amounts, as well as more accurately determine small business health through sophisticated multi-source analytics, and leverage an industry-leading digital application experience. "We're committed to lending to our local and regional businesses, and deploying Intelligent Lending will allow us to expand the number of small businesses we can serve within our community," said Matt Field, President at CCBank. "We believe that the sub-$500k SMB loan market is underserved and that Lendio is bringing much-needed innovation to the space. We are excited to partner with Lendio to serve both our existing community and widen the bank's lending opportunities across the region." A software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering, Intelligent Lending allows banks and financial institutions like CCBank to cost-effectively assess risk and widen lending opportunities with SMB customers, including: Effective cross-sell: Pre-qualify and deploy targeted marketing to a bank's existing SMB depositors using transaction analytics. Frictionless conversion: Provide a bank's SMB customers with a self-service digital loan application prefilled with their data. Transaction-driven analysis: Leverage transaction data to predict outcomes and expand access to capital. Credit policy automation: Evaluate applicants against a bank's loan policy with human-assisted or fully automated approvals. New customer acquisition: Banks can acquire new borrowers through the Lendio marketplace. "CCBank is a tech and customer-forward bank that recognizes the need and the opportunity to innovate, especially when it comes to small business lending, and we're thrilled to partner with them on this new offering," said Brock Blake, Lendio CEO and Co-Founder. "Both Lendio and CCBank share being community-focused companies, and we know Intelligent Lending will directly support the communities CCBank serves by increasing access to capital. We're excited to work together to push SMB lending to the next level." For more information on Lendio's Intelligent Lending, please visit www.l.lendio.com/intelligent-lending. About CCBank Founded in 1993, CCBank is a community-focused financial institution with branch offices located in Salem, Provo, Orem, Pleasant Grove, Sandy, and St. George to serve the banking needs of Utah residents and businesses. The bank prides itself on being a longstanding community bank focused on the financial and social health of Utah communities through its industry-leading rates, personalized service, financial technology, and quick decisions made at the local level. The bank concluded 2023 with approximately $871 million of total assets and $127 million of equity capital. CCBank is an Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC. Online: https://ccbank.com About Lendio Lendio is transforming small business lending by connecting small businesses, lenders, and small business service providers through a single integrated technology platform. We are on a mission to power an ecosystem that helps small businesses survive and thrive. Lendio provides purpose-built software that automates small business loan decisioning and underwriting for both banks and digital lenders, uses AI to match small businesses to the financing offers that best meet their needs, and embeds a full small business loan marketplace directly within small business service providers' platforms all of which work together to get small businesses access to the capital they need to be successful. Contact: Christina Sanders 5037892137 [email protected] SOURCE Lendio Panel of industry professionals examines the rapid rate at which central banks have been buying physical gold AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Central banks as a whole have dramatically increased their purchases of physical gold in recent years. What do these powerful institutions see in the precious metal, and do those same benefits translate to American portfolios? In Conversation: Gold Demand In the latest episode of U.S. Money Reserve's exclusive video series, "In Conversation," our panel of expertsincluding two former Directors of the U.S. Mintexamines central banks' record-breaking demand for physical gold, and breaks down the possible motives behind these purchases. Viewer will also learn which economic factors are currently making gold a prized asset for government banks around the world. Hosted by Chuck Woolery, this week's panel includes Philip N. Diehl, 35th Director of the U.S. Mint (19942000) and President of U.S. Money Reserve; Edmund C. Moy, 38th Director of the U.S. Mint (20062011) and U.S. Money Reserve's Senior IRA Strategist; Angela Roberts, U.S. Money Reserve's Director of Education; and U.S. Money Reserve's Coy Wells. For more information or to speak with company leadership at U.S. Money Reserve, please contact Christol Farris at 512-568-9991 or [email protected] or visit www.usmoneyreserve.com. About U.S. Money Reserve U.S. Money Reserve is one of the nation's largest private distributors of U.S. governmentissued gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products. The company is not affiliated the U.S. Government and the U.S. Mint. Founded in 2001, U.S. Money Reserve has grown into one of the world's largest private distributors of U.S. and foreign governmentissued gold, silver, platinum, and palladium legal-tender products, as well as precious metals IRAs. Hundreds of thousands of clients across the country rely on U.S. Money Reserve to diversify their assets with physical precious metals. U.S. Money Reserve's uniquely trained team includes coin research and numismatic professionals equipped with expert market knowledge to find products that offer the highest profit potential for precious metals buyers at every level. U.S. Money Reserve goes above the industry standard to provide superior customer service, with the goal of establishing a long-term relationship with each and every one of its customers. U.S. Money Reserve is based in Austin, Texas. Like them on Facebook, connect on LinkedIn, and follow on Twitter @USMoneyReserve. SOURCE U.S. Money Reserve Clearstep partners with Tufts Medicine to introduce an AI-powered, virtual-first program to overcome healthcare access, cost and quality challenges. CHICAGO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Clearstep , a leading innovator in digital triage and care navigation technology, is excited to announce a notable partnership with Tufts Medicine, a prominent hospital system in Massachusetts, to improve patient access by introducing a virtual care solution to help ensure patients get the right care at the right place and time. This collaboration unites Clearstep's advanced AI-powered solutions with Tufts Medicine's commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services and reshaping the primary care experience through a virtual-first, at-home, and in-person hybrid care model. Our goal is to meet patients where they are with a virtual-first approach and provide a seamless experience. Post this Adeel Malik, CEO of Clearstep, stated, "Tufts Medicine is leading the charge in creating new ways for patients to experience healthcare. Our goal is to meet patients where they are with a virtual-first approach and provide a seamless experience for patients across the New England region." Key Features of the Partnership: Virtual-first care model: Patients will use Clearstep's conversational AI-powered triage and navigation technology at the outset of their care journey, which will route them to the most clinically appropriate, convenient, in-network care within Tufts Medicine's extensive network. Patients will use Clearstep's conversational AI-powered triage and navigation technology at the outset of their care journey, which will route them to the most clinically appropriate, convenient, in-network care within Tufts Medicine's extensive network. Hybrid care delivery: Clearstep's triage and care navigation technology will power a variety of digital patient access points. Patients qualifying for virtual care can seamlessly transition to an on-demand visit with a Tufts Medicine provider. Clearstep's triage and care navigation technology will power a variety of digital patient access points. Patients qualifying for virtual care can seamlessly transition to an on-demand visit with a Tufts Medicine provider. Enhanced in-person experience: Clearstep ensures a smooth transition from the virtual experience to booking appointments across the Tufts Medicine network for in-person care needs. Clinical information collected from the Clearstep AI experience will be made available to downstream care providers, helping ensure that providers are equipped with the most important insights and can focus on delivering the best care possible. Clearstep ensures a smooth transition from the virtual experience to booking appointments across the Tufts Medicine network for in-person care needs. Clinical information collected from the Clearstep AI experience will be made available to downstream care providers, helping ensure that providers are equipped with the most important insights and can focus on delivering the best care possible. Enterprise-wide engagement: Clearstep's virtual triage technology, initially piloted in late 2020, will be deployed enterprise-wide over the next 12 months, providing a frictionless patient experience. Clearstep's virtual triage technology, initially piloted in late 2020, will be deployed enterprise-wide over the next 12 months, providing a frictionless patient experience. Enhanced user experience: Clearstep's technology integrates into Tufts Medicine's existing systems, providing a best-in-class user experience. Clearstep's technology integrates into Tufts Medicine's existing systems, providing a best-in-class user experience. Cost efficiency: By streamlining patient care, this solution can reduce unnecessary costs in value-based care plans, enhance margins in fee-for-service arrangements, and allow providers to focus their time on patients best suited for their expertise. Benefits for Patients: Controlled first mile: This approach aims to improve the primary care experience by guiding patients on accessing the best, most appropriate care, focusing on convenient and easy access to virtual care, and seamlessly transitioning to in-person care as needed. This approach aims to improve the primary care experience by guiding patients on accessing the best, most appropriate care, focusing on convenient and easy access to virtual care, and seamlessly transitioning to in-person care as needed. Timely access to care: The solution facilitates patient access to necessary care by streamlining care navigation and seamlessly integrating virtual care solutions. This initiative aims to provide patients with convenient and prompt access to the healthcare services they require. The first version of Clearstep's AI-powered technology will launch in Q1 2024, with continuous enhancements planned over the next several quarters. Malik concluded, "We're honored to be part of this mission with Tufts Medicine. Our technology is not just a navigational tool but has evolved into a capacity optimization solution for ambulatory and outpatient care. This collaboration is a major step in our mission to enhance care access." "We want to provide our current and future patients with the option of beginning their care journeys virtually and seamlessly, moving to coordinated in-person care when necessary," said Emily Young, President of the Tufts Medicine Integrated Network. "We are excited to offer these benefits to our patients, bringing together technology, care models, and payment mechanisms to better meet the needs of the diverse communities we serve." This partnership sets a precedent for health systems across the country, demonstrating a model for better managing capacity, generating increased margins, and opening up more access for patients. About Clearstep Clearstep is a leading digital health company helping healthcare organizations and patients create an individual roadmap to the right care at the right time and place. Clearstep's Smart Care Routing AI assistants for self-triage and healthcare navigation harness rigorously validated and curated AI models that empower patients to navigate their healthcare needs securely. Clearstep's impact extends across call centers, websites, mobile apps, patient portals, and 2-way SMS platforms. Through these mediums, it seamlessly automates symptom assessments, streamlines triage processes, addresses routine patient inquiries, facilitates remote patient monitoring, and optimizes administrative and clinical workflows. Learn more at clearstep.health or find Clearstep on LinkedIn . SOURCE Clearstep ANAHEIM, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ClorDiSys attended the 2024 MD&M West Conference in Anaheim, California to present their chlorine dioxide gas sterilization services and equipment. As part of the conference ClorDiSys Project Manager, Emily Lorcheim, presented, "Ambient Temperature Medical Device Sterilization with Chlorine Dioxide Gas." This presentation was declared as one of the, "Best of MD&M West" through communications and was highlighted in the article, "Is Chlorine Dioxide the Answer to the 'EtO Problem'?" Chlorine dioxide gas sterilization is indeed the closest alternative to ethylene oxide, with significant advancements as well. It is non-carcinogenic, non-explosive, and lacks harmful residuals. A key point is that chlorine dioxide is a true gas, meaning that it will penetrate tight areas and fill a chamber completely and evenly, rather than condense onto surfaces or limit penetration as a vapor would. Since it is non-explosive at use concentrations, chlorine dioxide can sterilize embedded batteries, whereas ethylene oxide causes many restrictions to advanced technology that features these. An emphasis within the presentation was that chlorine dioxide gas is an ambient temperature sterilization method, which is especially beneficial to cold-chain products. Ambient temperature sterilization offers high material and product compatibility and eliminates degradation that the elevated temperature of an ethylene oxide cycle can cause. There is typically a significantly reduced overall Time Out of Refrigeration for products when sterilized with chlorine dioxide gas. Cycles frequently are 1/10th of the time that an equivalent ethylene oxide cycle would be. Unlike other low temperature sterilization methods, chlorine dioxide can also successfully sterilize cellulosic materials. Chlorine dioxide gas sterilization is the closest alternative to ethylene oxide, with significant advancements as well. Post this ClorDiSys' Pure CD Sterilization method was developed by Johnson and Johnson and produces a non-acidic gas that is gentle on materials and is an EPA registered sterilant. ClorDiSys is an FDA registered contract sterilization facility, but also manufactures sterilization chambers, allowing for sterilization to be brought in-house. Since it is non-explosive, this is an economical and simple approach for manufacturers who want to save on time and costs. Established in 2001, ClorDiSys is a New Jersey based business manufacturing sterilization equipment and providing services. ClorDiSys developed its technology through Johnson and Johnson, and chlorine dioxide gas has been providing true sterilization of medical devices for over 25 years. Media Contact: Emily Lorcheim, ClorDiSys Solutions, Inc, Phone: 908-236-4100, [email protected], 50 Tannery Rd, Suite 1, Branchburg, NJ 08876 SOURCE ClorDiSys Solutions Inc NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) equipment market size is expected to grow by USD 702.42 million from 2023 to 2028. In addition, the growth momentum will progress at a CAGR of 5.25% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies including Alpsitec, Amtech Systems Inc., Applied Materials Inc., Axus Technology, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Ebara Corp., Entegris Inc., FLP Microfinishing GmbH, Hitachi Ltd., Kakou USA LLC., Kemet International Ltd., Logitech International SA, Okamoto Machine Tool Works Ltd., Stahli USA, Tokyo Seimitsu Co. Ltd., BASF SE, Lapmaster Wolters, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Fraunhofer Gesellschaft, and Revasum Inc. The report offers an up-to-date analysis and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request Sample Report. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global CMP Equipment Market 2024-2028 Company Analysis Alpsitec - The company offers CMP equipment such as Pcox 200s, and Pcox20X which are small, easy to use, and robust. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information The rising adoption of CMP in the semiconductor sector is notably driving the industry. However, factors such as the Cyclic nature of the semiconductor industry may impede growth. The segmentation is by Application (Foundries and IDMs), Type (300mm, 200mm, and 150mm), and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa). Glance on Segmentation Application The growth by the foundries segment will be significant during the forecast period. CMP equipment is an integral part of semiconductor foundries, facilitating the production of high-performance and densely packed ICs. The planarization of semiconductor wafers, where the CMP system is primarily used to planarize the surface of silicon substrates, is one of the most important uses for CMP equipment in Foundries. Geography APAC is estimated to contribute 39% to the growth during the forecast period. The major contributors to the this region are China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan. Increasing Chinese government investment in domestic production of integrated circuits, rather than reliance on imports from other companies, constitutes an important factor for growth in the region. Furthermore, the growth in the APAC has been driven by the presence of a majority of major semiconductor foundries. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View PDF Sample Report The industry is a critical sector within semiconductor manufacturing, employing mechanical abrasion and chemical etching processes to refine wafers. Key stages like photolithography address depth of field issues, relying on precise illumination techniques. Reports encompass both quantitative and qualitative analysis, aiding in informed business decisions. Strategies for business growth hinge on understanding the competitive situation and the current marketplace. Sales figures and unit metrics guide strategic planning, often informed by surveys targeting manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. As demand for advanced semiconductor technology surges, the industry remains pivotal in meeting needs and driving technological innovation. Robust sales figures and increasing revenue underscore the growing demand for CMP equipment. Fluctuations in price change are notable, reflecting dynamics. Diverse product types cater to various industry needs. Recent developments in CMP technology enhance efficiency and precision, aligning with trends. Companies strategize their plans to capitalize on emerging opportunities amidst evolving industry trends. Key drivers like semiconductor demand and technological advancements fuel expansion, despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and regulatory pressures. Overcoming these obstacles and mitigating potential risks remain crucial for sustained growth. Related Reports: The failure analysis test equipment market size is projected to increase by USD 2.31 billion, at a CAGR of 7.59% between 2023 and 2028. The hypervisor market size is projected to increase by USD 2.24 billion at a CAGR of 6.32% between 2023 and 2028. ToC: 1 Executive Summary 2 Landscape 3 Sizing 4 Historic Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Segmentations 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Vendor Landscape 11 Vendor Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging trends and provides 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 across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com SOURCE Technavio Ukrainian writer Oksana Zabuzhko has joined the international jury of this year's Berlin Film Festival. Together with European and American stars, she will evaluate the films that will compete for the Golden Bear and beyond. ADVERTISIMENT In total, the main jury consists of 6 respected people from different countries, so it is a great honor and a sign of trust to be among them. The list is available on the competition website. During the introduction of the judge to the film lovers, they did not forget to mention the war between Russia and Ukraine. "Oksana Zabuzhko, who wrote her first poems in her youth, is perhaps the most famous living writer in Ukraine and has published more than 20 books, including poetry, prose, and nonfiction. She first studied philosophy at Kyiv University and then defended her doctoral dissertation at the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences, after which she taught as a visiting professor at such US universities as the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh, and Harvard," the description reads. ADVERTISIMENT You also described how popular Oksana Zabuzhko's books have become in the world and how many prestigious awards she has received, including at home. As you know, Oksana Zabuzhko was named one of the top 100 women of the year by the BBC in 2023. Her work has been awarded the Angelus Literary Prize of Central Europe, the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine, and the French Legion of Honor. She is currently one of the most famous writers and intellectuals in Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The commodity plastics market size is expected to grow by USD 159.09 billion from 2022 to 2027. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will be progressing at a CAGR of 6.11% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies including BASF SE, Braskem SA, Chevron Corp., Covestro AG, Dow Inc., Eastman Chemical Co., Exxon Mobil Corp., Formosa Plastics Group, Hanwha Corp., INEOS Group Holdings SA, LG Chem Ltd., Lotte Chemical Corp., LyondellBasell Industries NV, Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., OMV Aktiengesellschaft, PTT Global Chemical Public Co. Ltd., Reliance Industries Ltd., Saudi Basic Industries Corp., Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd., and TotalEnergies SE. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and the latest developments. Buy Now for detailed company information Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Commodity Plastics Market 2023-2027 Company Analysis BASF SE: The company provides different types of commodity plastics for footwear, automotive, and electronic applications. Increasing demand for packaging material is notably driving the industry. However, factors such as stringent regulations over the usage of plastics may impede growth. The market is segmented by- Product (polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyethylene terephthalate (PS)), application (packaging, consumer goods, electronics, automotive, and others), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The report offers an up-to-date analysis, and to know the exact growth variance and the Y-O-Y growth rate, Request a FREE Sample Report. Product The growth by the polyethylene (PE) segment will be significant during the forecast period. Polyethylene (PE) is a light, long-lasting thermoplastic with a varying crystal structure. It is one of the most typically manufactured plastics across the globe. Polyethylene packaging refers to the technology of packaging or enclosing products to protect them from the external environment for the purpose of storage, distribution, and sale. Geography APAC accounts for 32% of growth during the forecast period. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View FREE PDF Sample Report Growth driven by demand in regular household applications such as trash containers, clothing, and packaging film. With the rise of lightweight electric vehicles, there's an increasing need for engineered plastics offering both mechanical strength and flexibility. These plastics find utility not only in automotive but also in construction and healthcare infrastructure where critical service environments demand reliable materials. Additionally, disposables in industrialization and flexible packing solutions underscore the adaptability. Enhanced production capabilities ensure availability while advancements in materials drive lower costs catering to large volume demands across various sectors. Manufacturers emphasize rigorous packaging to ensure product integrity, addressing environmental concerns regarding plastic waste. Amid amplified environmental concerns, advancing countries implement stricter government regulations on plastics usage. This prompts packaging industries to innovate, focusing on sustainable solutions. Fluctuating metal prices further drive towards plastics. A comprehensive report highlights new recent developments, including advancements in value chain optimization and production analysis. Trade regulations and import-export analysis shape dynamics, influencing prospects and strategies for value chain optimization. Regulatory adjustments are reshaping the landscape, prompting strategic growth analysis. Notably, category growths are diversifying, particularly in application niches like electronics, consumer goods, construction, textile, and medical & pharmaceutical sectors. Achieving dominance requires swift product approvals and strategic product launches, coupled with geographical expansions and technological innovations. This trend is particularly notable, with a focus on sectors like packaging and medical & pharmaceutical, catalyzing economic and healthcare advancement. Related Reports: The plastic market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.27% between 2022 and 2027. The size is forecast to increase by USD 214.81 billion. The compostable plastic market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.54% between 2022 and 2027. The size is forecast to increase by USD 1,905.33 million. ToC: 1 Executive Summary 2 Landscape 3 Sizing 4 Historic Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Segmentations 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Vendor Landscape 11 Vendor Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging trends and provides 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 across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com SOURCE Technavio Technology like eSUB provides companies more protection against "reptile theory" and "nuclear verdicts" trends in the construction industry SAN DIEGO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Contractors and subcontractors are facing a surge in litigation, with disputes reaching unprecedented value s , according to a recent report by Arcadis. This trend where the average value of disputes in North America increased by 42% from 2021 to 2022 is expected to continue in 2024. As a result, legal experts say many commercial contractors in the construction industry are turning to management software as an inexpensive hedge against lawsuits. Contractors Use Documentation Software To Help Prevent Legal Disputes In 2024 "Most contractors have pretty disorganized books, so there's very little paper trail," said Dan Bawden, a custom home builder, renovator and attorney. "A good lawyer is going to beat you up with that. Management software allows you to have photo documentation of what's happening on the job and record signed change orders, which is the number-one reason for most construction disputes." Bawden said the rising phenomenon of "nuclear verdicts" poses an additional threat to the construction industry. These substantial legal judgments, exceeding $10 million, are often associated with the reptile theory. "The reptile theory is a plaintiff attorney making jurors feel that our industry intentionally seeks profits over safety," Bawden said. "In the courtroom, especially in jury trials, every juror sitting in that jury box has been ticked off by a contractor somewhere along the line or somebody in their family has. So, the courtroom and these dispute resolution settings are not good for us and should be avoided at all costs." Andee Hidalgo, the owner of Spearhead Construction, said entering information daily into reporting software may seem time-consuming and tedious, but having documentation makes it easier to prepare for whatever could happen. She said she's now empowered to respond promptly to disputes and request compensation for delays and additional costs. "We genuinely rely on those field notes," Hidalgo said. They help her respond quickly when forepersons in the field share critical information about the contract requirements. "That's the difference [between] surviving and not," Hidalgo said. She said subcontractors frequently grapple with justifying work that wasn't part of the original contract or tasks that took an unexpected turn. Without a solid record, they have no basis for explaining payment for their work and the escalated materials and administration costs. These claims are often submitted after the fact (if at all) hanging in the balance, threatening profits and leading to disputes. This is why lawyers like Bawden said real-time, meticulously recorded documentation that includes every change order and additional hour can give subcontractors evidence to help them stay out of court and on the job site. About eSUB Construction Software eSUB makes user-friendly software for more productive and smarter trade contractors. It is the only project management and field-to-office collaboration platform designed specifically for trades to make managing tasks consistent, efficient and easier. As a result, thousands of trade contractors have chosen eSUB Cloud to help them standardize project processes, eliminate duplicate efforts and improve field-to-office collaboration. eSUB is backed by growth equity firms Catalyst Investors and Revolution Ventures. Register for a demo of the only reporting software designed to meet the needs of commercial construction subcontractors. Media Contact: Kasey Klee, Axia Public Relations, 607-425-9501, [email protected] SOURCE eSUB Construction Software CINCINNATI, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dolbey has announced AI Assist, an expansion of Fusion Narrate powered by nVoq, which offers generative AI for healthcare workflow automation. AI Assist is an evolution in speech recognition and automation technology that allows healthcare providers to access and utilize revolutionary generative AI within a private, secure, and HIPAA-compliant environment. AI Assist offers drastic productivity efficiencies to healthcare organizations by enabling healthcare providers to automate otherwise time-consuming tasks through artificial intelligence. Dolbey's new AI Assist allows for text analysis, summarization, transformation, and generation. With the use of AI Assist, healthcare providers can automatically generate a suggested impression and recommendation, summarize a report with a bulleted or numbered list, enhance the completeness of medical report documentation, suggest ICD-10 billing codes, and build unique AI-driven workflows in combination with the Fusion Narrate shortcut builder. "Leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to enhance patient care and drive unprecedented productivity advancements is a cornerstone of our research and development strategy," states Curtis Weeks, Dolbey's VP of Product Development. "We are thrilled by the exceptionally positive response from our early adopters, underscoring our commitment to innovation and excellence in the healthcare sector." Dolbey will be showcasing AI Assist at the upcoming ViVE digital health conference at the Los Angeles Convention Center from February 25-28. Learn more at dolbeyspeech.com/ai-assist. About Dolbey Dolbey's award-winning healthcare suite of solutions enhances productivity while delivering better documentation, improving patient care. Since 1914, Dolbey has incorporated the latest technologies available to meet the demands of the healthcare community. Today, Dolbey's suite of products includes speech recognition (premise or cloud-based), CAPD, CDI, CAC, transcription, and dictation. To learn more about Dolbey's front-end speech recognition software for EMRs, LISs, PACs, and more, visit www.dolbeyspeech.com CONTACT: Brian Gaysunas, +18007567828, [email protected] SOURCE Dolbey and Company, Inc. PHOENIX, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) today named DT NOVA, owner of District Taco in Northern Virginia, as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year. DT NOVA was honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, Ariz., for being an outstanding franchise establishment owner-operator. From left: Co-Founder and CEO of District Taco, Osiris Hoil, Co-Founder of DT NOVA Isalmou Boussaa, and Co-Founder of DT NOVA Hicham El Abbassi "Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream," said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. "We are proud to recognize DT NOVA with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact." The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon. Like District Taco founder, Osiris Hoil, whose move from Mexico to the United States in pursuit of his entrepreneurial dreams led to the creation of District Taco, Hicham El Abbassi and Isalmou Boussaa, founders of DT NOVA, epitomize the quintessential American Dream hailing from Morocco and rising from humble beginnings as Five Guys employees to successful franchise owners of 12 stores. Their journey began with dedication and hard work, earning the pair recognition from the Murrell family, Five Guys' owners, who became instrumental in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Transitioning from employees to franchise owners, they faced countless challenges but remained undeterred, transforming struggling ventures into thriving business through their steadfast work ethic and business acumen. A significant turning point occurred in 2022 when the pair ventured into franchising with District Taco, culminating in a successful partnership which expanded their portfolio to 2 open stores and another 43 stores set to open in the next 5 years in the DC metro area and Florida. Their collaboration with District Taco not only demonstrates the duo's entrepreneurial prowess, but also their commitment to shared success, as they actively contribute to the brand's development and growth. Beyond franchise ownership, their involvement in developing training materials for District Taco underscores their dedication to fostering excellence within the industry. Their journey serves as an inspiring model for entrepreneurs, highlighting the power of resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit in achieving entrepreneurial success and shaping the landscape of the ever-changing restaurant industry. "It's my absolute honor to recognize DT NOVA as our esteemed Franchisee of the Year," said Chris Medhurst, President of District Taco. "Hicham and Isalmou, the minds behind DT NOVA, have demonstrated time and again their relentless dedication and incredible entrepreneurial spirit, not only in propelling their own success, but also in significantly contributing to the growth and development of the District Taco brand. We're proud to have them as part of our franchise team, and we look forward to their continued success and innovation in the years to come." There are over 800,000 franchised businesses across the U.S., providing over 8.7 million direct jobs and generating over $850 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities. About District Taco In 2009, two neighbors got together over some homemade chips, salsa and guacamole and decided to launch a District Taco food cart. Since then, District Taco has grown to fifteen locations and employs more than 300 people in and around Washington D.C. and Philadelphia metro areas, with an additional 70 franchise locations in development. Their mission is to serve quality Yucatan style Mexican food that is fresh, simple and healthful, with a fully customizable menu that includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. At District Taco, food is made fresh daily from the highest quality ingredients. They strive to limit their impact on the environment by serving in environmentally friendly packaging where possible. For more information about District Taco or their menu, and to download the app, visit https://www.districttaco.com/ or follow @districttaco across socials. About the International Franchise Association: Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the approximately 806,270 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.7 million direct jobs, $858.5 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development. SOURCE District Taco Investing in Tomorrow's Healthcare Workforce: Grant Expands Programs Equipping Pennsylvania's Healthcare Workforce with Vital Skills to Address the 32% Vacancy Rate of Nursing Support Staff of Pennsylvania Healthcare Systems.* MECHANICSBURG, Pa., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a monumental step towards revitalizing Pennsylvania's healthcare workforce, Emerge Education , a trailblazer in healthcare workforce development, has been awarded a $251,922.49 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry's " Creating Nursing Pathways in Pennsylvania through Apprenticeships " initiative. This crucial funding will empower Emerge to expand its Workforce Navigator and Emerge Prepared programs with a dual focus Upskilling the healthcare workforce for organizations: The grant will enable Emerge to expand its services to healthcare organizations seeking to upskill their existing staff and address critical staffing shortages. Emerge's Workforce Navigator program will connect these organizations with a diverse pool of qualified healthcare professionals who are eager to advance their careers and gain industry-recognized certifications. Expanding access to healthcare careers for students: Emerge aims to leverage this grant to prepare high school students for fulfilling healthcare careers whether they intend to work full-time after graduation or pursue a college degree. Emerge Prepared equips high school students with the essential skills and industry-recognized certifications needed to launch meaningful careers in healthcare. This empowers students to succeed and directly addresses the growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals in Pennsylvania . "This grant is a powerful endorsement of our unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for Pennsylvania's healthcare workforce, both by creating new opportunities for the emerging workforce and by supporting organizations in upskilling their staff," declares Lauren Holubec, VP of Workforce and Business Development at Emerge Education. "It's not just about filling open positions; it's about cultivating a pipeline of passionate, skilled healthcare professionals who are ready to revolutionize Pennsylvania's healthcare landscape." "Emerge Education's commitment to the improvement of the healthcare workforce is truly commendable," says Tara Loew, Director, Apprenticeship and Training Office at Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. "This grant will help them expand their reach and equip more Pennsylvanians with the skills and experience we need at such a crucial time of healthcare rebuilding." Emerge Education's commitment to strengthening healthcare in Pennsylvania runs deep, and its commitment to nurturing the state's healthcare future is unwavering. This grant serves as a catalyst, propelling Emerge's mission to make a tangible difference in Pennsylvania. With a looming deficit of over 277,771 healthcare workers projected by 2026*, the need for action is paramount. This grant empowers Emerge to rise to the challenge, not just through filling the gap but by cultivating the next generation of healthcare professionals. By nurturing their skills and fostering their passion, Emerge ensures Pennsylvania's healthcare landscape remains vibrant and resilient, not just for the present, but for generations to come. "This grant is a critical turning point for Pennsylvania's healthcare future," says Jim Hunter, CEO of Emerge Education. "It's an investment that will ripple outwards, strengthening the very core of our state's healthcare system. By empowering local communities, cultivating talent, and developing innovative solutions, we'll not only address Pennsylvania's own workforce challenges but also inspire and empower other organizations looking to improve their healthcare workforce." The road to a healthier Pennsylvania starts today. Join Emerge Education on this journey. Learn more about our workforce development programs and how you can be a part of the solution at www.emergeedu.com . About Emerge Education LLC. Emerge Education is a next-level education solutions company dedicated to workforce development and institutional success. Emerge Education delivers innovative outcomes that fuel organizational and individual growth by forging partnerships with leading companies, universities, and institutions. Through proprietary solutions like Workforce Navigator, Emerge Education empowers organizations to attract, develop, and retain the top talent they need to thrive in today's competitive landscape. Emerge Prepared is a solution that addresses the critical need to prepare students for their career future, and the Emerge Partner Network helps bridge the skills gap of today to prepare the workforce for the future. Visit www.emergeedu.com for more information. *A Roadmap for Growing Pennsylvania's Health Care Talent - The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania Contact: Victoria Kloss Emerge Education Phone: (717)207-9921 4550 Lena Drive, Suite 203 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 www.emergeedu.com SOURCE Emerge Education STOCKHOLM, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Evolution today announced a new strategic agreement with Caesars Digital that will strengthen its existing relationship, expanding its reach throughout North America. Under the terms of this groundbreaking partnership, Evolution and Caesars will work together to establish dedicated studios across multiple U.S. states, including one inside Caesars' world-renowned New Jersey-based Tropicana Casino. The Tropicana studio will mark Evolution's third live casino studio in Atlantic City, further establishing its ability to meet the demand of a rapidly growing New Jersey market. Jacob Claesson, Evolution CEO for North America: "Caesars' expansion in the market is remarkable and noteworthy. When presented with the opportunity to launch our third live studio in Atlantic City, we knew Tropicana would be the ideal location. We're impressed by Caesars' dedication and look forward to collaborating with them as they continue to expand their branded studio presence." In addition to the Tropicana location, Evolution and Caesars will collaborate on launching additional branded studio space within Evolution's already established Pennsylvania and Michigan studios. Matthew Sunderland, Senior Vice President and Chief iGaming Officer at Caesars Digital added: "Elevated live dealer experiences are an area of opportunity and something online casino players are continuing to show an affinity for. With this in mind, partnering on a deeper level with Evolution, the market leader in live casino offerings, made a lot of sense. We trust that our players will be excited by these best-in-class live casino experiences and can't wait to see how our new dedicated live dealer studio spaces come together at Tropicana Atlantic City and in other jurisdictions where iGaming is live." As part of the agreement, online casino players on Tropicana Online Casino, Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, and Caesars Palace Online Casino will enjoy continued access to Evolution's industry-leading live casino games and top-performing online slots from its NetEnt, Red Tiger, Big Time Gaming, and Nolimit City brands. CONTACT: For trade press and media enquiries, please contact: Daniel Tweedie, Head of Marketing, Evolution: [email protected] Brad Harwood, Director of PR, Caesars Digital: [email protected] For investor enquiries, please contact: Carl Linton, Head of IR, +46 70 508 85 75 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/12069/3933090/2619777.pdf Evolution Caesars US Partnership ENG SOURCE Evolution As Business Scales, Carrie Wibben Promoted to President and Retired U.S. Air Force Major General Cameron Holt Hired as Head of Exiger Government Solutions WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Exiger , the market-leading supply chain and third-party risk AI company, today announced that Carrie Wibben has been promoted to serve as the company's President, and Retired U.S. Air Force Major General Cameron Holt will succeed Wibben as President of Exiger Government Solutions. Following Exiger's recent sector-leading majority investment , these C-Suite roles ensure the company's continued ability to scale, invest and respond to intensifying global supply chain needs. These roles ensure the company's continued ability to scale, invest & respond to intensifying global supply chain needs Post this Im looking forward to stepping into this expanded role . . . to ensure that Exiger is not just delivering market-leading supply chain technology, but that we are also serving as a true partner for our customers, said Carrie Wibben, Exiger President. As geopolitical disruption, heightened economic competition, and imminent Scope 3 emissions requirements converge to drive greater urgency around supply chain visibility and resilience in 2024, Exiger plans to build on last year's multi-million dollar investment in UX, GenAI, cognitive computing and automation. Exiger will pursue new acquisition opportunities to continue to develop and deploy the market's most innovative and effective supply chain and third-party risk technology. "Last year was historic for Exiger," said Exiger CEO Brandon Daniels. "We achieved a 68% increase in ARR while maintaining 134% net dollar retention and won dozens of net new logos. Government and Defense Industrial Base customers have played a critical role in our growth, and that is a direct testament to Carrie's leadership, strategic vision and passion for innovation. I'm excited for her to take on this elevated role within the organization. I'm equally thrilled to welcome General Holt to our executive management team. Cameron's unparalleled leadership and defense acquisition experience represent the perfect combination to ensure our Government business continues to lead the market in every way. We're honored to be able to leverage and amplify the impact of such dedicated and accomplished public servants and defense leaders like Cam and Carrie." As President, Wibben will continue to oversee Exiger Government Solutions while also heading up strategic go-to-market and engagement for Exiger's most critical accounts. Wibben will also work closely with the CEO to advance Exiger's brand and market visibility. "I'm looking forward to stepping into this expanded role as Exiger's President to better support Brandon in strengthening and evolving our most strategic relationships to ensure that Exiger is not just delivering market-leading supply chain technology, but that we are also serving as a true partner for our customers," said Wibben. "I'm also very excited to work alongside one of the finest leaders I know, Major General (Ret.) Cameron Holt. Our shared passion includes countering the asymmetric threat posed by our adversaries who deploy blended operations to infiltrate our critical supply chains and steal our intellectual property. Exiger's advanced technology is a critical weapon in that fight, and Cameron is absolutely the right leader at the right time to scale our Exiger Government Solutions business in this next chapter." Prior to Exiger, Wibben was the Deputy Director of Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. She also served as the Principal Deputy for Counterintelligence, Security and Law Enforcement at the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, in addition to senior positions at Office of Management and Budget and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. A West Point graduate, Wibben served as a U.S. Army Officer and was the first woman to serve as the Commander of the Guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. She has been honored with the National Defense Industrial Association's Dr. Desmond G. Newman Award for Supply Chain Excellence and was essential in securing Exiger's $74.5 million General Services Administration contract and FedRAMP Moderate and Impact Level 4 accreditation. General Holt will collaborate closely with Wibben as he takes over as President of Exiger Government Solutions, while further scaling Exiger's AI supply chain and third-party risk management solutions across their 55+ government agency and DIB clients. "America and her allies around the world face new, more sophisticated threats to freedom and the unalienable rights of all people," said General Holt. "One of the main frontlines in this fight is the infiltration of critical supply chains to systematically create fragility and dependence and to transfer intellectual property and wealth. I've seen firsthand the powerful impact Exiger's technology can have to meet and exceed the level of sophistication of our adversaries. Exiger is the clear technology leader when we simply must expose and ultimately defeat these new threats to supply chains. I'm excited to continue to defend this great nation and the ideals of its founding for the next generation of Americans by leading Exiger's incredible Government Solutions team and advancing our customers' missions." In 2022, General Holt completed 32 years of military service, including four years as Deputy Assistant Secretary (Contracting) for the Air Force and Space Force, where he oversaw a global contracting portfolio valued in excess of $825 Billion and 8,000+ contracting professionals worldwide, executing the full range of operational, enterprise sourcing and major weapons systems contracting worldwide. He sits on the Board of Directors of the National Contract Management Association and the American Society of Military Comptrollers' Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution System Reform Task Force. About Exiger Exiger is revolutionizing the way corporations, government agencies and banks navigate risk and compliance in their third parties, supply chains and customers through its software and tech-enabled solutions. Exiger's mission is to make the world a safer and more transparent place to succeed. Empowering its 550 customers across the globe, including 150 in the Fortune 500 and over 50 government agencies, with award-winning AI technology, Exiger leads the way in ESG, cyber, financial crime, third-party and supply chain management. Its work has been recognized by 40+ AI, RegTech and Supply Chain partner awards. Learn more at Exiger.com and follow Exiger on LinkedIn. For more information, please contact: Kody Gurfein Chief Marketing Officer for Exiger 1.914.393.0398 [email protected] SOURCE Exiger WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The future city "He Hika", engineered by the Dutchman Ducks student team from Farnsworth Middle School, NY, has won the Grand Prize at the 32nd year of the prestigious international DiscoverE 2024 Future City Competition . The students Anika, Darshana, and Levi teamed with educator Kelly Werner as well as volunteer mentor Jennifer Smith, to earn this year's top honors. Farnsworth Middle School from the New York Albany region takes home the Grand Prize of a trip to U.S. Space Camp and $7,500 for its schools STEM program (provided by Finals sponsor Bentley Systems, Inc.). Since last fall, middle school students in 37 US regions as well as teams from all over the world have imagined, designed, and built cities for DiscoverE's 2023-2024 Future City Competition. This year's theme, Electrify Your Future, challenged students to imagine and design future cities that are fully electric and powered by clean, green, and renewable energy sources. Farnsworth Middle School from the New York Albany region takes home the Grand Prize of a trip to U.S. Space Camp and $7,500 for its school's STEM program (provided by Finals sponsor Bentley Systems, Inc.). Second place went to Lionville Middle School in Exton, PA. Representing the PA (Philadelphia) region, Lionville Middle School earned honors for its city Mawiana. Their organization receives a $5,000 scholarship for its STEM program, sponsored by Shell. A2-Sydney- engineered by the Warwick Middle School in Lititz, PA, took third place honors. Their program receives a $2,000 scholarship for its STEM program, sponsored by Bechtel. Fourth place went to Al-hadi School of Accelerative Learning from Houston, TX, for their project Fursa city. Tierra Fuerza engineered by students from Fort Couch Middle School in Upper St. Clair, PA, from the PA (Pittsburgh) region took fifth place. Both schools receive $750 for their organization's STEM programs, sponsored by NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying). Working as a team with an educator and STEM mentor, students present their vision of the future through a 1,500-word city essay; a scale model of their city (built with recycled materials); a project plan to help keep their project on track; a presentation and Q&A session with a panel of judges. Keeping the engineering design process and project management front and center, students are asked to address an authentic, real-world question: How can we make the world a better place? One of the nation's leading engineering education programs and among the most popular, Future City is accessible to every student. The Future City competition recognizes the importance of inclusion and emphasizes participation from all students, male and female, all races and ethnicities, and all economic levels. Participants come from middle schools, both public and private, can be home-schooled and can also be members of a nationally, regionally, or state-recognized youth-focused organization, such as the Boy and Girl Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs, or 4-H Clubs. Last year, 52 percent of the students were female, 39 percent of the students were minority, and 43 percent were low-income students from Title I schools, meaning schools that are federally funded based on the number of students at that school who qualify for free or reduced-cost lunch. Students apply Math and Science to real-world problems and 85% of students reported that Future City helped them see Math and Science as important to their future. Future City extends its gratitude to major sponsors, including the Bechtel Corporation , Bentley Systems Inc. , NCEES , PMIEF , and the Overdeck Family Foundation . The competition is also supported by Linde Engineering , Pentair Foundation , and Shell Energy . For those passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers, Future City has ongoing volunteer opportunities . The Future City competition is a program of Discover Engineering , a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. DiscoverE's initiatives include Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, World Engineering Day, Chats with Changemakers, and outreach for the Cities of the Future and Dream Big films. FutureCity.org | Future City Press Kit | #FutureCity2024 DiscoverE is leading a growing volunteer movement that inspires and informs present and future generations to discover engineering. Our network of volunteers in the US and abroad is drawn from the DiscoverE coalition of more than 100 professional societies, major corporations and government agencies. Together we meet a vital need: introducing students, parents, and educators to engineering, engaging them in hands-on engineering experiences and making science and math relevant. For more information, visit www.discovere.org . SOURCE Discover Engineering Portfolio Nears 700 Affordable Homesites MOORESVILLE, N.C., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FG Communities, Inc., a company with the mission to preserve and improve affordable housing by acquiring and operating manufactured housing communities, is pleased to announce that it has acquired five new properties in North Carolina. These communities include locations in Gastonia, Graham, Statesville, and Morganton. Together the acquisitions increase the company's reach by 173 new homesites. These follow other properties recently acquired in Charlotte, Winston-Salem, East Flat Rock, and Asheville, North Carolina. Today, FG Communities operates 27 affordable housing communities, offering approximately 693 homesites to its residents. CEO Michael Anise said, "We're pleased to add these new communities to our portfolio, and we're confident they'll benefit our residents and investors alike. The new properties highlight our ability to quickly identify and close on properties that preserve and improve affordable housing, and they should strengthen our growing cash flows." Chairman Kyle Cerminara added, "As we approach 700 homesites, we're starting to realize economies of scale across our growing portfolio. Our pipeline of new communities remains strong, supporting both attractive cap rates and strong cash flow potential." Prospective investors who would like to learn more about FG Communities, please refer to their offering page: https://invest.equifund.com/offering/fgcommunities/details Jordan Gillissie, CEO Equifund.com commented, "My team and I are very pleased to support FG Communities in their funding needs. We are proud of FG Communities' progress, as they grow their portfolio of affordable housing communities not only in North Carolina, but across the Southeastern U.S." About FG Communities FG Communities is a self-administered, self-managed real estate holding company. The company has a growing portfolio of 31 manufactured housing communities with approximately 795 homesites, which are either owned or under contract (or under letter of intent) to be acquired. FG Communities works to improve the quality of life and maintain affordable housing options for its residents. Contact: Michael Anise CEO [email protected] 855-935-7638 (RENT) https://fgcommunities.com SOURCE FG Communities DUBLIN, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Fiber Cement Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on End User, Application, Material, and Country-Level Analysis - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global fiber cement market has experienced substantial growth, fueled by key factors that have heightened its demand across various construction applications. Fiber cement, a composite material crafted from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, has become increasingly popular as a versatile and long-lasting building material, contributing to its expanding market presence. Furthermore, a pivotal driver for the fiber cement market's growth is its remarkable durability and resistance to environmental elements. In contrast to traditional building materials, fiber cement exhibits high resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a preferred option for siding, roofing, and other exterior applications. This exceptional durability translates to reduced long-term maintenance costs, making it an attractive choice for both residential and commercial property owners. The versatility of the material stands out as another significant factor propelling its market growth. Fiber cement has the ability to replicate the look of natural materials such as wood, stone, or brick, offering architects and builders a diverse array of design possibilities. This aesthetic adaptability, combined with its cost-effectiveness, has resulted in a widespread adoption in residential and commercial construction projects worldwide. Furthermore, the sustainability factor has emerged as a key driver behind the market expansion of fiber cement. Given its composition featuring natural fibers, the material is recognized as more environmentally friendly compared to alternatives. As the construction industry increasingly prioritizes sustainable building practices, fiber cement's eco-friendly attributes contribute to its growing prominence in the market. Additionally, the robust expansion of the fiber cement market can be attributed to its durability, fire-resistant properties, design versatility, and commitment to environmental sustainability. These elements, coupled with the worldwide emphasis on safety and sustainability in the construction sector, establish fiber cement as a pivotal player in the building materials industry. Market Segmentation: Segmentation by End User Residential Non-Residential Segmentation by Application Molding and Trim Siding Roofing Wall Partitions Flooring Segmentation by Material Portland Cement Sand Cellulosic Material Some of the prominent companies in this market are: Plycem Corporation Building Materials Corporation of America PPG Industries Incorporated Akzo Nobel NV Canfor Corporation Ecolab Incorporated Central Fiber LLC Mercer International Incorporated US Silica Holdings Incorporated Elementia SA de CV Imerys SA Hardie (James) Industries Plc. Dow Chemical Company CSR Ltd. Etex NV Key Questions Answered in this Report: What are the main factors driving the demand for fiber cement market? What are the major patents filed by the companies active in the global fiber cement market? What are the strategies adopted by the key companies to gain a competitive edge in fiber cement industry? What is the futuristic outlook for the fiber cement in terms of growth potential? Which application, and product segment is expected to lead the market over the forecast period (2023-2033)? What are the Innovations and Technological Advancements in fiber cement market? How is the fiber cement industry addressing environmental concerns, and what sustainable practices are being adopted in the production and application of fiber cement materials? Key Topics Covered: 1. Markets: Industry Outlook 1.1 Trends: Current and Future Impact Assessment 1.1.2 Trends: Current & Future Impact Assessment 1.1.2.1 Increasing Government Regulations on Use of Asbestos 1.1.2.2 Rapidly Growing Infrastructure Activities and Infrastructure Development 1.2 Supply Chain Overview 1.3 R&D Review 1.4 Regulatory Landscape 1.5 Stakeholder Analysis 1.6 Impact analysis for key global events- covid19, Russia/Ukraine or Middle East crisis 1.7 Recent Developments of Fiber Cement 1.8 Market Dynamics Overview 2. Applications 2.1 Application Segmentation 2.2 Application Summary 2.3 Global Fiber Cement Market (By End User) 2.3.1 Residential 2.3.2 Non-Residential 2.4 Global Fiber Cement Market (By Application) 2.4.1 Molding and Trim 2.4.2 Siding 2.4.3 Roofing 2.4.4 Wall Partitions 2.4.5 Flooring 2.4.6 Others 3. Products 3.1 Product Segmentation 3.2 Product Summary 3.3 Global Fiber Cement Market (by Material) 3.3.1 Portland Cement 3.3.2 Sand 3.3.3 Cellulosic Material 3.3.4 Others 4. Regions 4.1 Regional Summary 4.2 Drivers and Restraints 4.3 North America 4.4 Europe 4.5 Asia Pacific 4.6 Rest of the World 5. MARKETS - Competitive Benchmarking and Company Profiles 5.1 Competitive Benchmarking 5.2 Company Profiles Plycem Corporation Building Materials Corporation of America PPG Industries Incorporated Akzo Nobel NV Canfor Corporation Ecolab Incorporated Central Fiber LLC Mercer International Incorporated US Silica Holdings Incorporated Elementia SA de CV Imerys SA Hardie (James) Industries Plc. Dow Chemical Company CSR Ltd. Etex NV 6. Growth Opportunities and Recommendations For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/c9fawr 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 Olive oil is believed to have a positive effect on human health. However, in fact, the benefits of this product depend on the method of harvesting olives, as well as their further storage and processing. ADVERTISIMENT In an interview with Mirror, Dr. Tassos Kyriakides, an associate professor of biostatistics at the Yale School of Public Health in New Haven, Connecticut, told whether olive oil is really as healthy as it is commonly believed. According to him, the benefits of olive oil depend on many factors, as well as the components that make up its composition. The basis of olive oil is oleic acid, whose undeniable benefits have long been proven. There are also some factors to consider when purchasing this product. Olive harvesting and processing ADVERTISIMENT The best oil, the expert says, is the one made from softly harvested very green olives that are not yet fully ripe. Such olives contain a higher concentration of useful components. The time it takes for olives to go from harvest to processing is also important. The faster it happens, the better the oil will be. Some companies have special mobile mills that process olives within two hours of harvesting. Such oil is considered the best, as the risk of oxidation or fermentation of the fruit due to too long a period of downtime after harvesting is minimized. The expert notes that no more than a few days should pass between the date of harvest and the date of processing. Methods of oil storage and its freshness ADVERTISIMENT To find out exactly how and how quickly the company harvests olives and processes them into oil, you can find a QR code on each bottle. By scanning it, you can get all the necessary information about the methods of harvesting products. Experts recommend paying special attention to the dates of harvest, processing, and bottling, as well as the "use by" date to get the freshest oil. The best choice is a bottle of oil that takes no more than three months to get from the place of preparation to the store shelf. In addition, the International Olive Council recommends that brands limit the shelf life to no more than two years after bottling. That is, if the brand's bottle indicates that the harvest season was "23/24," this means that the harvest lasted from late 2023 to early 2024. SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- While it has long been known that oil drilling can cause cancer, respiratory illnesses and birth defects, holding oil drillers liable for the illnesses caused by their drilling in safety zones (established as 3,200 feet within areas where people live, work, or attend school) if the company did not use the best technologies to control the pollution has long been a challenge. Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Burbank) is determined to change that with Assembly Bill 3155. Under AB 3155, oil drillers could face penalties ranging from $250,000 to a $1 million. These penalties can be challenged and rebutted by the drilling companies if the companies can prove the illnesses were caused another way. AB 3155 builds on scientific evidence proving a direct link between drilling and these maladies. It was this evidence that led Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) to pass SB 1137 in 2022, a first of its kind bill that banned drilling within a 3,200-foot "set-back" zone. SB 1137 was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, but to no one's surprise, oil drillers spent over $20 million to put a referendum overturning SB 1137 on the ballot in November 2024. As such, SB 1137 has been frozen, awaiting this November's vote. If AB 3155 becomes law, it would further protect communities by making drillers liable for the harms they cause starting in January 2025. Senator Gonzalez, author of SB 1137, is a principal coauthor of the legislation. "These are our parents, our brothers, our sisters, our children, and neighbors dying from preventable cancers. Oil drillers that don't use the best technology to protect communities from toxic leaks need to be accountable to the communities they harm," said Assemblymember Friedman. "If oil drillers don't want to invest in the most protective technology to drill, they should face legal accountability to the families they harm." Nalleli Cobo, a community activist and founder of People, Not Pozos, (People, Not Wells) grew up 30 feet from a polluting oil well. She developed asthma by age 11 and stage 2 reproductive cancer by age 19. She lost her ability to bear children. At 24, she is now cancer free. Cobo has actually written about similar legislation in a Los Angeles Times op-ed. Protecting community members like Cobo has Assemblymember Friedman determined to see AB 3155 signed into law. "My experience, like that of others who live in neighborhoods polluted by oil drilling, is a constant reminder that those in power do not value our health and well-being," Cobo said. "It's a signal that some communities are expendable, that our lives don't matter as much as the fossil fuel industry's profits. The legislation would essentially shift the burden of proof from communities to polluters. If oil drillers choose to continue to ignore the scientific evidence that they're sickening surrounding communities, then they would assume the risk of significant legal and financial penalties." A coalition of 130 public interest groups supported similar legislation last year that was held in the suspense file of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Among those groups were the Central California Environmental Justice Network, California Environmental Justice Alliance, Center for Biological Diversity, Center for Race Poverty & the Environment, Communities for A Better Environment, CALPIRG, Environment California, Consumer Watchdog, Food and Water Watch, and Sierra Club. "Over 2.1 million Californians live within half a mile of oil and gas wells, and that number will continue to increase with the addition of new wells," said the coalition. "Moreover, environmental impacts disproportionally affect low-income communities of color. One third of all Californians that live near wells live in areas burdened by elevated levels of environmental pollution. 90% of those people are people of color." AB 3155 is sponsored by Consumer Watchdog "If drillers want to drill in unsafe ways, they should be presumed to be accountable for the harm they cause," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "Like the gun industry that is liable for unsafe conduct in the manufacture and distribution of weapons in California, oil drillers that ignore safety standards should be presumptively liable for the illnesses linked to their negligence. AB 3155 reverses the burden from the individual to the driller when drillers ignore safety standards in pursuit of big profits." AB 3155 will have its first hearing in April. SOURCE Consumer Watchdog LISBON, Portugal, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fuel Labs , creator of the first optimistic rollup Fuel V1, today announced its evolution into the "Rollup OS", a complete operating system specifically designed to help Ethereum rollups realize their full potential. Specifically designed to tackle critical limitations in the existing rollups architectures, the strategic shift strengthens Fuel Labs' position as a visionary in the Ethereum ecosystem while paving the way for its mainnet launch in Q3 2024. Unlike existing virtual machines (VMs) designed for layer-1 (L1) blockchains or general-purpose computation systems, Fuel offers the first purpose-built VM that will unlock new capabilities for Ethereum rollups. Fuel's unique architecture addresses core challenges in blockchain scalability beyond the conventional paradigm of modularity and even data availability enabling higher throughput via parallelization, state minimization, seamless interoperability and VM customizability. "As rollups mature, it's clear that an operating environment optimized for their unique requirements is a non-negotiable next step. Fuel is that evolution: the 'Rollup OS' solves critical bottlenecks, future-proofing both rollup technology and the Ethereum ecosystem," said Nick Dodson, CEO and Co-Founder of Fuel Labs. Addressing Ethereum's Scaling Bottleneck Ethereum's reign as the dominant smart contract platform is undeniable, yet its future-readiness and developer appeal hinges on EVM's ability to solve future requirements of Ethereum rollups. As rollups and modular infrastructure rise, existing technologies made for general computation, or monolithic L1 systems, fail to address the evolving demands of this rollup-centric reality. This forces developers to navigate compromises in design, limiting innovation, adoption, and ultimately, Ethereum's long-term vision for a globally decentralized network. The Fuel Advantage: A New Operating System for the Rollup Era Fuel brings unprecedented power to Ethereum rollups by combining state-of-the-art innovations and learning from its rich history in rollup development: Parallelization to Fuel Scalability Beyond Modularity: Parallel transaction execution in the FuelVM enables Fuel-powered rollups to offer a highly performant user experience, while preserving Ethereum 's decentralization and security. As blockchain networks are increasingly designed to be modular separating execution, consensus, transaction finality and data availability into separate layers optimized performance rests on parallelization to offer next-generation scalability benefits. Parallel transaction execution in the enables Fuel-powered rollups to offer a highly performant user experience, while preserving 's decentralization and security. As blockchain networks are increasingly designed to be modular separating execution, consensus, transaction finality and data availability into separate layers optimized performance rests on parallelization to offer next-generation scalability benefits. Tackling State Bloat for Sustainable Growth: Fuel's advanced UTXO model , coupled with unique state minimization techniques , combats state bloat referring to the ever-increasing accumulation of data that must be entirely stored and managed by nodes in a blockchain network to ensure proper chain validation and state transitions. This allows Fuel-powered rollups to scale without compromise, inheriting Ethereum -level security all while maintaining the lowest node operation overheads. This translates to significantly decreased processing requirements for validators thereby ensuring long-term decentralization. Fuel's , , combats state bloat referring to the ever-increasing accumulation of data that must be entirely stored and managed by nodes in a blockchain network to ensure proper chain validation and state transitions. This allows Fuel-powered rollups to scale without compromise, inheriting -level security all while maintaining the lowest node operation overheads. This translates to significantly decreased processing requirements for validators thereby ensuring long-term decentralization. Introspection for Seamless Interoperability: Cross-chain fragmentation reduces overall efficiency. Features like introspection streamline interchain communication, empowering developers and users to navigate a fully connected, multi-rollup ecosystem on Ethereum with confidence. Cross-chain fragmentation reduces overall efficiency. Features like streamline interchain communication, empowering developers and users to navigate a fully connected, multi-rollup ecosystem on with confidence. Security-First Design with Asset Orientation: FuelVM removes non-intuitive features like ERC20's unlimited approvals, and introduces multiple native assets for use cases like native NFT bridging and much more. Native account abstraction and support for multiple signature schemes open the doors to effortless user and wallet onboarding into web3, accelerating mainstream adoption. removes non-intuitive features like ERC20's unlimited approvals, and introduces multiple native assets for use cases like native NFT bridging and much more. Native account abstraction and support for multiple signature schemes open the doors to effortless user and wallet onboarding into web3, accelerating mainstream adoption. Developer Empowerment: FuelVM: The heart of the Rollup OS, FuelVM provides maximum flexibility and power to developers, unlocking innovations impossible with constrained legacy architectures. Sway: A domain-specific language designed for blockchains, combining features of Rust and Solidity for secure, yet developer-friendly, blockchain programming. Forc: A suite of powerful tools simplifying and accelerating dApp development and deployment on Fuel-powered chains. Highly Customizable: The Rollup OS unlocks a new wave of creativity in innovative decentralized application ( dApp ) building, purposefully designed to support use cases that require high computational load, such as advanced decentralized finance ( DeFi ) protocols and web3 gaming. The Rollup OS unlocks a new wave of creativity in innovative application ( ) building, purposefully designed to support use cases that require high computational load, such as advanced finance ( ) protocols and web3 gaming. Open-Sourced Security & Collaboration: Fuel prioritizes Ethereum 's security as the foundation, while advocating for collaboration over competition through its open-source ethos. Fuel aims to remodel execution in order to fuel the future of Ethereum, unlocking never before seen web3 use cases at massive scale. For more information, developers may visit Fuel's tech docs at https://docs.fuel.network . Support can also be found via Fuel's Discord at https://discord.com/invite/fuelnetwork . ### Nick Dodson, CEO and Co-Founder of Fuel Labs is available for interview. About Fuel Fuel is an operating system purpose-built for Ethereum rollups. Fuel aims to bring new capabilities to the Ethereum Ecosystem all while preserving decentralisation. Fuel rollups will have parallelization, state minimised execution, and interoperability along with native account abstraction and support for wallets of all networks. Fuel combines the purpose-built FuelVM, a highly optimised Rust-based blockchain programming language Sway, a fully integrated tool chain Forc, and several services to create a complete Rollup OS for Ethereum. Fuel's unique architecture will allow developers to build experiences never before seen in the Ethereum ecosystem. For more information, please visit: Website | X/Twitter | Discord | Blog | GitHub | Documentation | Forum SOURCE Fuel Labs Habitat's community development financial institution, Habitat Mortgage Solutions, becomes Habitat Capital ATLANTA, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Over the past seven years, Habitat for Humanity International's community development financial institution has helped address critical barriers to affordable homeownership in majority-minority communities across the country. Today, the global housing nonprofit announced a name change for the CDFI, from Habitat Mortgage Solutions to Habitat Capital, a shift that better reflects its growth and offerings. Catering to the organization's U.S. network of affiliates, Habitat Capital provides a more accessible entry point to funding that affiliates can use to offset the rising cost of land, labor and construction; down-payment assistance; capacity building; and subsidies for low-income homebuyers. "We're excited about the change because it marks our intentional strategic focus on innovative solutions that can truly increase the supply of affordable homes at scale," said Daniel Gura, managing director of Habitat Capital. "By providing much-needed resources and support, we can move closer to addressing the broader conditions accelerating housing unaffordability and work to improve economic mobility for more households of color." Habitat Capital offers a range of financial products, services and tools designed to facilitate increased production of affordable housing. It does this in three primary ways: through property acquisition and establishing partnerships that yield innovative, affordable financing solutions; by leveraging the performance of Habitat mortgages to demonstrate the financial viability of lending to lower-income homeowners; and by providing financial solutions that help Habitat affiliates improve and transform their ability to operate efficiently, increase production and deepen mission impact. In the past year, Habitat Capital partnered with JP Morgan Chase to create a $13 million fund that Habitat affiliates can tap into to support home building in local communities. As of December 2023, Habitat Capital had issued $5.4 million in loans to support various projects undertaken by Habitat affiliates. Later this year, with seed funding received from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, Habitat Capital will launch a property acquisition fund, a robust $100 million investment initiative dedicated to advancing Black homeownership and fostering climate-resilient housing solutions. This initiative ensures that Habitat affiliates gain access to loans essential to facilitating affordable homeownership projects, including acquisition, rehabilitation and construction. Through these investments, Habitat Capital aims to increase overall network production by 5%. Habitat continues to address urgent affordable housing challenges by innovating at the crossroads of advocacy, finance and community. Habitat Capital will be instrumental in this mission, using its profound expertise in finance and capital investment to develop financially sustainable solutions. About Habitat for Humanity Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity found its earliest inspirations as a grassroots movement on an interracial community farm in south Georgia. Since its founding in 1976, the Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org. SOURCE Habitat for Humanity International THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a $0.25 per share cash dividend on its common stock. This represents an approximate 5% increase from the previous dividend. The dividend is payable on March 29, 2024 to stockholders of record as of March 15, 2024. Huntsman Corporation also announced it will hold its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders in virtual meeting format only at 9:00 a.m. Central Time on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Holders of record as of the close of business on March 7, 2024 will be entitled to vote at the meeting. About Huntsman: Huntsman Corporation is a publicly traded global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated and specialty chemicals with 2023 revenues of approximately $6 billion. Our chemical products number in the thousands and are sold worldwide to manufacturers serving a broad and diverse range of consumer and industrial end markets. We operate more than 60 manufacturing, R&D and operations facilities in approximately 25 countries and employ approximately 6,000 associates within our continuing operations. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company's website at www.huntsman.com . Social Media: Twitter: www.twitter.com/Huntsman_Corp Facebook: www.facebook.com/huntsmancorp LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/huntsman Forward-Looking Statements: Certain information in this release constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are based on management's current beliefs and expectations. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances and involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the company's operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors as discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Huntsman companies' filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Significant risks and uncertainties may relate to, but are not limited to, volatile global economic conditions, cyclical and volatile product markets, disruptions in production at manufacturing facilities, reorganization or restructuring of Huntsman's operations, including any delay of, or other negative developments affecting the ability to implement cost reductions, timing of proposed transactions, and manufacturing optimization improvements in Huntsman businesses and realize anticipated cost savings, and other financial, economic, competitive, environmental, political, legal, regulatory and technological factors. The company assumes no obligation to provide revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by applicable laws. SOURCE Huntsman Corporation PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Independence Blue Cross (IBX) announced that Peishan Ang was appointed to the role of Vice President of Corporate Strategy. In her new role, Ang oversees the development of corporate, divisional, and functional strategies, including the business, financial, capability, and organizational elements. Peishan Ang "Peishan's experience and deep knowledge of our organization and the health care business will help position us for continued long-term success," said Michael R. Vennera, executive vice president and chief strategy, corporate development, and information officer. Ang first joined IBX in 2009 as Strategy director. She later served as director of Product Development and Strategic Marketing. In her most recent role as vice president of Sales Enablement, she oversaw a team responsible for sales-related analytics, incentive programs, training, process support, and optimization. In addition, she provided oversight on compliance support for the company's third-party administrator business. Ang earned a bachelor's degree from the National University of Singapore and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. About Independence Blue Cross Independence Blue Cross is the leading health insurance organization in southeastern Pennsylvania. For 85 years, we have been enhancing the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. We deliver innovative and competitively priced health care products and services; pioneer new ways to reward doctors, hospitals, and other health care professionals for coordinated, quality care; and support programs and events that promote wellness. To learn more, visit ibx.com. Connect with us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Instagram. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. SOURCE Independence Blue Cross Luxury Appliance Brand Exhibits Unparalleled Design, Breakthrough Technology and a Preview of What's To Come for Industry Insiders through Immersive KBIS Booth (#W2201) BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury kitchen appliance brand JennAir celebrates its return to The Kitchen Bath & Industry Show (KBIS), with an invitation to explore its most immersive booth experience yet. Designed to showcase the brand's marquee innovations, the booth will set itself apart with two levels of experiences a posh speakeasy on the first floor and an exclusive showroom spotlighting the newest JennAir offerings on the second floor. Throughout both levels, guests will experience how the brand continues to propel the industry forward through appliances that merge showstopping aesthetics with function. "For JennAir, our 2024 presence at KBIS brings to life our core brand ethos: progress never stops," said Chelsey Whitehead, director of product and brand marketing for JennAir. "We know seeing is believing, and we pride ourselves on showing designers, architects and the industry at large firsthand that spaces can defy the status quo and be as bespoke and unexpected as they desire. With JennAir, the design process isn't limited to the appliances themselves each appliance is carefully curated to seamlessly enhance its surroundings." At KBIS 2024, JennAir will capture the attention of attendees the moment they enter the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center with its "Cube of Defiance," a stunning piece of conceptual art designed to showcase the brand's differentiated aesthetics. From there, industry insiders can make their way to the first floor of the JennAir booth, walking through the brand's famed Obsidian black column refrigerator doors, where ecliptic lighting, rich textures and moody colors will transport them into a speakeasy. Once inside the booth, industry insiders are invited to experience how JennAir allows for powerful performance without disruption. JennAir believes that luxury isn't loud, and that is why JennAir offers the quietest luxury dishwashers in the industry. The immersive soundproof "sound booth" located on the first floor allows guests to experience the dishwasher decibel comparisons first-hand. Additional featured stations will highlight the brand's innovative product offerings, including the JennAir Culinary Center, which acts as a digital sous chef on the brand's range and wall ovens to guide users through meal creation, step by step. Designing without boundaries takes literal form on the booth's second floor. On this level, JennAir will give industry insiders a first look at what's to come in 2024 by previewing its newest innovations, all of which build upon the technological advancements seen on the first floor. Across both levels, the JennAir booth will celebrate and display its most beloved and popular products that have defined the brand's role as a trailblazer within the luxury appliance industry: Luxury, High-Performance Ovens and Ranges JennAir Professional Style Ranges , which include features such as the JennAir Culinary Center, the ability to command and control through remote access, as well as a chrome-infused griddle, that allows users to curate the finest dishes with perfection. , which include features such as the JennAir Culinary Center, the ability to command and control through remote access, as well as a chrome-infused griddle, that allows users to curate the finest dishes with perfection. JennAir Double Wall Ovens also includes the JennAir Culinary Center as well as a flush, fully-integrated design paired with V2 Vertical Dual-Fan Convection, which provides an intelligent culinary experience for users. Luxury Refrigeration Column Refrigeration features an industry-exclusive Obsidian black interior with ecliptic lighting that allows food and beverages to emerge like vibrant art against the interior, as well as glass and metal shelves and bins, and three-zones of cooling to ensure ingredients are perfectly chilled. features an industry-exclusive Obsidian black interior with ecliptic lighting that allows food and beverages to emerge like vibrant art against the interior, as well as glass and metal shelves and bins, and three-zones of cooling to ensure ingredients are perfectly chilled. Built In Bottom Mount Refrigeration also features an industry exclusive Obsidian black interior with multi-point LED lighting. With a fully flush and integrated design, pair two together to create a grand luxury built-in look. Beverage and Warming Double Drawer Refrigerator or Freezers also features the brands obsidian interior in addition to a flush-to-cabinet design and eight temperature presets that allow for customized temperature zone settings. also features the brands obsidian interior in addition to a flush-to-cabinet design and eight temperature presets that allow for customized temperature zone settings. JennAir 24 Under Counter Glass Door Refrigerators include UV-resistant Low-E thermal glass, hushed acoustics and an obsidian interior with soft LED lighting. include UV-resistant Low-E thermal glass, hushed acoustics and an obsidian interior with soft LED lighting. Warming Drawer features concealed controls, a glass bottom drawer design and a smooth close, full-extension drawer. Industry insiders can visit this year's JennAir booth, which is located in the West Hall within the Whirlpool footprint (#W2201). To learn more, you can visit JennAir.com or immerse yourself in the JennAir experience by visiting a local showroom . About JennAir Defying physics with the invention of downdraft ventilation, Lou Jenn forged the path to an open concept and changed the kitchen forever. Founded in that progress, the JennAir brand fearlessly carries his torch hell-bent on burning down the tired conventions of luxury. The JennAir brand crafts distinctive luxury kitchen appliances that push form and function to transform spaces. With exceptional performance, masterful execution and provocative design, JennAir offerings are powerful, yet bespoke to individual tastes, shattering norms to deliver the progress that today's luxury consumer deserves. To speak with a concierge at the JennAir Epicenter or learn more about the new offerings from JennAir, please visit JennAir.com or join us on instagram.com/JennAir and youtube.com/JennAir . About NKBA and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show NKBA is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), the largest kitchen and bath show in North America. With nearly 50,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath design and remodeling industry, NKBA has educated and advised the industry since it was founded in 1963. NKBA's mission is to inspire and support the kitchen and bath industry through community, events, learning and professional certifications. For more information, visit www.nkba.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS and NKBA are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association. SOURCE JennAir GAINESVILLE, Fla., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- King Insurance Partners, a leading provider of comprehensive insurance solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Mehta Insurance Agency, located in Absecon, New Jersey. This acquisition brings additional reach, expanding our services across New Jersey and reinforcing our commitment to offering unparalleled insurance solutions to our clients. Mehta Insurance Agency, a respected insurance brokerage firm in Absecon, NJ, has a rich history of serving the diverse insurance needs of New Jersey residents. Specializing in a wide array of insurance products, including Business, Flood, Life Insurance, and more, Mehta Insurance Agency has established itself as a trusted advisor to its clients. Their expertise in navigating the complex insurance landscape, coupled with their dedication to personalized service, aligns perfectly with King Insurance Partners' mission. "We are thrilled to welcome Mehta Insurance Agency into the King Insurance Partners family," said Malcolm King, CEO of King Insurance Partners. "Their proven track record of excellence and deep understanding of the New Jersey insurance market complements our vision of providing top-tier insurance solutions to our clients. Together, we will continue to innovate and expand our offerings, ensuring our clients have access to the best insurance products to meet their needs." For current and prospective clients, this acquisition means access to a broader range of insurance products, enhanced customer service, and a deeper resource set, while maintaining the current relationships they have come to know and trust. Sunil Mehta expressed his enthusiasm, adding, "We look forward to integrating with King and to continuing to serve the insurance needs of New Jersey with even greater resources and dedication. We can't wait to get started." About King Insurance Partners King Insurance Partners is a premier insurance provider offering a comprehensive suite of insurance products and services. In 2023 King Insurance Partners grew more than any other top 100 US broker and has established itself as a leader in the insurance industry, dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of its clients with integrity, professionalism, and expertise. Additional information can be found at www.king-insurance.com. For further information contact: King Insurance Partners info@king-insurance.com SOURCE King Insurance Partners Media services group KGV launches technology services brand by leveraging its presence in India, UAE, South Africa, Singapore, Costa Rica, UK and United States. NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- XTS, a technology services company, has officially launched its operations, setting its sights on transforming the digital landscape in the US and European markets. With a seasoned team of industry experts, XTS aims to establish itself as a leading provider of comprehensive technology solutions. XTS has strategically positioned itself in the technology sector by assembling a team of highly experienced professionals, each contributing unique skills and insights to the company's vision. This dynamic group has formed various Centers of Excellence, ensuring a robust and innovative approach from the outset. The Centers of Excellence at XTS specialize in software development, product engineering, support services, quality control, and testing solutions. This strategic approach allows XTS to offer end-to-end services that cater to the diverse needs of clients, ranging from startups to established enterprises. "Our mission at XTS is to drive technological innovation and provide unparalleled services to our clients. We have carefully curated a team of experts with diverse skill sets to ensure that we can deliver high-quality solutions across various domains," said Rajesh Kurup, the visionary leader behind XTS XTS's commitment to excellence is underscored by its dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The company recognizes the rapidly evolving nature of the industry and has positioned itself to adapt seamlessly, offering cutting-edge solutions that empower clients to stay ahead of the curve. Key Highlights of XTS's Service Portfolio: - Software Development: Leveraging the latest technologies, XTS crafts custom software solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. The team's expertise spans a wide array of programming languages and development frameworks. - Product Engineering: XTS excels in product engineering, ensuring that clients receive top-notch solutions that align with their business objectives. The company's approach involves a meticulous product development lifecycle, from ideation to deployment. - Support Services: With a commitment to client success, XTS provides comprehensive support services, ensuring the seamless functioning of the developed solutions. The support team is available around the clock to address any issues promptly. - Quality Control and Testing Solutions: XTS places a strong emphasis on delivering flawless solutions by implementing rigorous quality control and testing processes. This meticulous approach guarantees that clients receive products that meet the highest industry standards. XTS recognizes the significance of the US and European markets in the global technology landscape. By focusing on these regions, the company aims to forge strong partnerships with local businesses and contribute to the digital transformation of industries. As XTS embarks on this exciting journey by leveraging its parent company (Kings Group Ventures) presence in over eight countries and with over 4000 employees. The company invites potential clients, partners, and stakeholders to explore the innovative solutions it offers. With a foundation built on expertise, innovation, and client satisfaction, XTS is poised to redefine the landscape of technology services. About XTS: XTS is a software engineering and consulting company specializing in Solution Development and Product Engineering services. As a member of Kings Group Ventures (KGV), XTS proudly serves industry leading brands in their software engineering journey. XTS is led by IT industry veterans who have perfected the art and science behind successfully developing and delivering bespoke technology solutions. The experience is across a broad range of industries and generations of technology. A cross-industry and global clientele means deep domain expertise and the ability to cross-deploy best practices and solutions from unique sectors. Media Contact: Andrew Lim Kings Group Ventures 415-513-0064 SOURCE Kings Group Ventures MEDIA, Pa., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kollevoll & Associates, LLC, an insurance broker specializing in Commercial Insurance, Personal Insurance, and Employee Benefits, is excited to announce a new partnership with ECBM Insurance Brokers & Consultants. Founded in 2009, Kollevoll & Associates is an independent broker in Pennington, NJ that serves clients in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. "We're excited to partner with ECBM. I'm confident that by working with another family-owned broker like our own, our clients will receive the same level of service, care and expertise that they've come to expect," said Eric Kollevoll, Founder and President of Kollevoll & Associates. This partnership will provide greater market access, additional resources, and expanded service to Kollevoll clients. It will also allow ECBM to continue expanding its reach in the Northeast region and remain committed to its mission of putting clients before profits. "We're excited to welcome Kollevoll & Associates to the ECBM family!" said Matt Bernier, Chief Operating Officer of ECBM. "Eric has done an amazing job building a full-service insurance brokerage. He treats each of his clients like family and their trust in him shows it. We look forward to supporting Eric and continuing his excellent level of service." About ECBM ECBM is a family-owned, independent insurance broker and consulting firm located in the Philadelphia area. We specialize in high-risk industries that require dedicated, client-based broker services in the areas of Commercial Insurance, Employee Benefits, Workers' Compensation, Professional Liability, Cyber, Farm & Agriculture, and Personal Lines. We strive to create innovative solutions and methods, and raise the industry standard to deliver consistent, top-tier service to our loyal clientele. ECBM has been privately-owned since its founding in 1970. With no outside investors, our commitment remains to putting people, both our clients and employees, first. For more information, please visit www.ecbm.com . Contact Marissa Dowdy Manager of Marketing & Sales Enablement [email protected] SOURCE ECBM The world's most respected whiskey competition recognizes Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon for exceptional quality, superior flavor, and category leadership DENVER, Colo., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Laws Whiskey House celebrates its coveted win at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards, the most respected whiskey competition in the world. Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon earns recognition as the "World's Best Small Batch Bourbon" for its exceptional quality and superior flavor that sets the standard of excellence. World's Best Small Batch Bourbon: Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon "We couldn't be prouder of this achievement. We consider this a win for the entire state of Colorado because our unique growing and distilling conditions are what create the bold flavor," says founder and CEO Al Laws. "This award is a testament to the hard work and talent of our team, and we're proud to be among all the winners who are pushing the boundaries in American Whiskey." Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon is the pinnacle of the brand's distilling expertise. Laws Whiskey House crafts its flagship Four Grain Bourbon and Cask Strength Bourbon from whiskey aged for a minimum of three and up to ten years in new, 53-gallon oak barrels. While both the flagship Four Grain Bourbon and Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon are created from the same mashbill and marriage of barrels, the Cask Strength is bottled at a higher proof to highlight the whiskey's unadulterated characteristics coming straight from the barrel. The finished product offers aromas of baking spice, black tea, and honeysuckle, with bold flavors of orange, clove, and dried fruit. This achievement further establishes Laws as a leader in the booming Colorado whiskey scene. Laws' bold, flavorful whiskeys capture the adventurous spirit of Colorado by adding its own unique twist to the time-tested traditions of Kentucky, harnessing the power of Denver's high elevation to age whiskey, and embracing Colorado's bounty of ancient grain varieties. At Laws, everything is done with care to maximize the flavor of each grain, regardless of the time-intensive methods required. For more information about Laws and to purchase Laws Cask Strength Four Grain Bourbon nationwide, visit www.lawswhiskeyhouse.com . Follow Laws on Instagram @lawswhiskey and on Facebook facebook.com/lawswhiskey . Media Contacts BON Communications 6262973612 [email protected] SOURCE Laws Whiskey House Butter week is coming soon. This means that millions of people around the world will start making pancakes. But it's not as easy as it might seem at first glance. ADVERTISIMENT However, if you cook pancakes according to the 3-2-1 method, you can improve the recipe so much that the pancakes will turn out to be just perfect. The Mirror writes about this based on an experiment conducted by Phoebe Cornish. It turns out that the method got this name because of the excellent combination of ingredients. All you need to make pancakes is 300 ml of milk, 2 eggs, and 100 grams of flour. Of course, all the ingredients can be mixed with a mixer or whisk. However, Cornish suggests a different method. ADVERTISIMENT According to her, it's best to use a protein shaker that contains a metal ball. Just shake the shaker for 20 seconds and the batter for perfect pancakes is ready. Fry the resulting dough in a frying pan greased with butter or oil. Fry for about 30 seconds on each side, or until golden brown. Premier legal funding company devoting resources to employees injured in the workplace as all signs point toward worker's comp cases trending upward. ANAHEIM, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Legal-Bay Pre Settlement Funding announced today that applications for worker's compensation cases are on the rise, and their experts expect this pattern to continue, at least for the foreseeable future. Sadly, Legal-Bay has been seeing an upsurge in worker's compensation lawsuits, especially third-party cases. These cases have substantial value for plaintiffs who did nothing wrong, but were injured on the job or terminated from employment. Valuations in worker's comp cases is approximately $20,000, but many factors contribute to wildly fluctuating numbers in order to arrive at that average. Each case is unique, and depending on the severity of injuries, some plaintiffs have been awarded anywhere from a couple thousand to many millions of dollars. Compensation is usually 2/3 of weekly wages in order to reimburse an employee's lost work over their injured period. However, if injuries were severe enough to warrant surgery or if the employee in question is suffering from ongoing disabilities and unemployment due to their injury, then settlement amounts can be expected to be much higher. Chris Janish, CEO of Legal-Bay commented, "Paying for medical care and basic life expenses while out of work can make waiting out the months until trial seem endless. This is where lawsuit settlement funding can help, and where Legal Bay excels. We have extensive knowledge within this space, and can help plaintiffs navigate their particular situation." If you're a lawyer or plaintiff involved in an active worker's compensation lawsuit of any kind and need an immediate cash advance against an impending lawsuit settlement, please visit Legal-Bay HERE or call toll-free at 877.571.0405. Legal-Bay offers cash settlement funding and lawsuit loans for all worker's comp lawsuits, however, Legal-Bay handles all other types of cases including personal injury, slips and falls, police brutality, car, bus, or truck accidents, premise liability, sexual harassment or assault, discrimination in the workplace, and more. Their loan for settlement funding programs are designed to provide immediate cash in advance of a plaintiff's anticipated monetary award. While it's common to refer to these legal funding requests as settlement loans, loans for settlements, law suit loans, loans for lawsuits, etc., the "lawsuit loan" funds are, in fact, non-recourse. That means there's no risk when it comes to loans in lawsuit settlements because there is no obligation to repay the money if the recipient loses their case. Therefore, terms like settlement loan, loans for lawsuit, loans on settlement, or lawsuit loan funds don't necessarily apply, as the "loan on lawsuit" isn't really a loan at all, but rather a stress-free cash advance. Legal-Bay is known to many as the best lawsuit funding provider in the industry for their helpful and knowledgeable staff, and one of the best lawsuit loan companies overall for their low rates and quick turnaround, sometimes within 24-48 hours once all documents have been received. To apply right now for a loan settlement program, please visit the company's website HERE or call toll-free at: 877.571.0405 where agents are standing by to answer any questions. SOURCE Legal-Bay, LLC My LoanCare Go Simplifies the User Experience VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LoanCare , a top U.S. mortgage subservicer, is making it easier than ever for homeowners to manage their mortgages with the updated, proprietary My LoanCare Go mobile app. The award-winning app is part of LoanCare's push to modernize mortgage loan management with made-for-mobile flexibility. My LoanCare Go lets users access all their loan details in one place. The app's features include biometric authentication with facial recognition for fast and secure logins, a message center to help homeowners stay up to date on their loans, and a tool that allows users to manage multiple loans with one click. The homeowner can also choose between English or Spanish language preferences. "We are excited about the launch of the My LoanCare Go mobile app, as it is always LoanCare's goal to provide our customers with a seamless user experience that offers robust features and personalized convenience," said Dave Worrall, President of LoanCare. With the new app, users can set up autopay and make secure payments, review monthly statements, manage paperless billing, track loan finances, escrow, taxes, insurance, and more. My LoanCare Go also offers expanded options for LoanCare clients to customize their homeowners' experience through private label branding, account-based marketing, tailored communications, and offers relevant to the individual. My LoanCare Go is available to download in the Apple Store and Google Play. Customers using the now-retired LoanCare mobile app will need to download the new My LoanCare Go app to access their mortgage account dashboard or sign into their account at myloancare.com. About LoanCare LoanCare is a top national provider of full-service, component, and interim mortgage loan subservicing. The company is known for delivering a superior customer experience through personalization and convenience. Its proprietary portfolio management platform, LoanCare Analytics, identifies risk and opportunity quickly to enable smarter decisioning across the servicing spectrum. For 40 years, LoanCare has been servicing loans for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage companies, and portfolio investors. LoanCare is part of Fidelity National Financial (NYSE: FNF), a Fortune 500 company and leading provider of title insurance and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries. For more information, visit www.loancare.com . SOURCE LoanCare Wading River Pizza, a cornerstone of pizza culture East Shoreham and Wading River, NY acquired by Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria, one of Long Island's oldest red sauce joints. Pizziaolo Steven LaBarbera to retire. WADING RIVER, N.Y., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria, the Hamptons Institution that has served millions of New York residents and tourists from around the world for over half a century, is pleased to announce its acquisition of Wading River Pizza in Wading River, New York. "As we reflect on the past six years we are filled with gratitude for the support and friendship you have shown us at Wading River Pizza", said owner and pizzaiolo Steven LaBarbera. "It has been an incredible journey serving you and we are truly thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful community." Wading River Pizza owner and pizzaiolo Steven LaBarbera will retire in March 2024. "As we pass the torch to the team at Uncle Joe's, we do so with confidence that they will continue to uphold the standards of delicious food and courteous service that you have come to expect," said Wading River Pizza co-owner Kristen LaBarbera. "We trust that they will treat you all like family, just as we have strived to do." Led by Tana Gerber and Scott Gerber, Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria will become the new steward of Wading River Pizza effective immediately. "We are excited to introduce the Wading River, East Shoreham and Rocky Point communities to some of the specialties that have made us a trusted, family-friendly brand for over 50 years", said Scott Gerber. "Rest assured, we will preserve the culinary excellence and customer service that Wading River Pizza's regulars, fans and locals have come to know and love." Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria serves Original Long Island Panko pizzas, Classic New York Style pizzas, and Italian specialties, such as Uncle Joe's Famous Alla Vodka sauce dishes, Parms, Original Sauce Wings and signature Dolci Doughknots. Family-friendly and community minded, Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria cares deeply about the local towns it serves. Uncle Joe's Social Club, the pizzeria's free loyalty program, offers all members a free pizza pie on their birthdays, a $20 catering gift card for every $100 spent on catering orders, free gelato with every meal for kids ages 10 and younger and other special members-only benefits. Uncle Joe's Neighborhood, the pizzeria's philanthropic program, gives back to local nonprofits, charitable causes and public schools through in-store fundraisers, special deals and catering donations. Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria in Wading River is located at 6324 Route 25A in the Little Bay Shopping Center. The full transition to Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria will occur by spring. Other Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria locations in Suffolk County, Long Island include Hampton Bays (42E Montauk Highway) and Miller Place (691 Route 25A). Uncle Joe's Hampton Bays and Miller Place locations are anticipated to re-open from renovation in March 2024. "It's our distinctive honor to offer Long Island pizzeria owners the opportunity to join the Uncle Joe's family," said Tana Gerber. "Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria intends to announce additional acquisitions in the weeks and months ahead." For catering orders or to order pizza delivery in Wading River visit UncleJoes.com or call 631-929-9222. About Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria Founded in 1968 by "Uncle" Joe Sciara, Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria is one of Long Island's oldest pizzerias and red sauce joints. The Hamptons Institution, a beacon of tradition and culinary excellence, has served millions of New York residents and tourists from around the world for over half a century. Uncle Joe's serves Original Long Island Panko pizzas, Classic New York Style pizzas, and Italian specialties, such as its famous Vodka sauce dishes, Parms, Original Sauce Wings and signature Dolci Doughknots. About Founder Guiseppe Sciara Guiseppe Sciara was born on June 29, 1940 in Sicily. He started working at age 8 picking olives and oranges in the sun-soaked fields of Scordia, saving every lira he could with one dream in mindto move to America. In the winter of 1958, with less than ten cents to his name and lacking the ability to read, write, or speak English, Guiseppe embarked on his venture to America, passing through Ellis Island into New Yorka journey that would ultimately make him a Long Island legend. In the 1960s, through apprenticeships and pure Sicilian grit, Guiseppe taught himself the meticulous art of pizza making, developing and perfecting his own original recipes. In 1968, Guiseppe opened the doors to his first pizzeria in Bay Shore, Long Island, and it quickly became a local hit. Building on this success, he expanded in the decades to follow, opening more pizzerias across Long Island, including a flagship location in the Hamptons. The rest, as they say, is history. As the years unfolded, drawn by Guiseppe's magnetic warmth, locals and tourists began affectionately calling him "Uncle Joe"a badge of honor he has cherished ever since. Contact Information For more information about Uncle Joe's Famous Pizzeria and Uncle Joe's Pizza & Parlour, contact publicrelations@unclejoes.com SOURCE Uncle Joes Famous Pizzeria RICHMOND, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lotus Foods, a pioneer in heirloom and organic rice cultivation, is delighted to announce that its CEO, Andrew Burke, has been honored with the 2024 MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking. Presented by Big Path Capital, this accolade underscores Burke's visionary leadership and commitment to driving positive change within the industry. "This award recognizes the great work being done by every member of our team," says Burke. "We are dedicated to scaling our impact and building on the legacy that Ken and Caryl began more than twenty nine years ago." Lotus Foods CEO Andrew Burke has been honored with the 2024 MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking. Post this Andrew Burke assumed the role of CEO in July 2023, succeeding Co-Founders Caryl Levine and Ken Lee, who were honored for the same award in 2023 for promoting organic and regenerative rice-growing practices. Levine and Lee continue to serve as visionaries on the board. Since arriving at Lotus Foods in 2019, Burke has adeptly navigated the company through challenging times, including the pandemic, efficiently scaling the business. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Lotus Foods' nearly three-decade journey, as the company reaffirms its dedication to advancing sustainable and equitable food systems. Reflecting on Burke's tenure, Levine and Lee remarked, "Andrew's leadership has been instrumental in propelling Lotus Foods forward, enhancing revenue streams, and attracting top-tier talent. Andrew's strategic vision and unwavering commitment make him the ideal candidate to lead the company into its next phase of evolution, expanding regenerative organic agriculture and combating climate change." Burke's recognition takes into account his decades of leadership and relevant industry experience prior to taking up the reins at Lotus Foods, including as CEO of TCHO Chocolate. Alongside fellow honorees, Burke joins the 2024 MO 100 cohort, inspiring and empowering businesses to prioritize impact and purpose. This year's honorees reflect the burgeoning momentum of companies that prioritize social and environmental responsibility. Michael Whelchel, Founder and CEO of Big Path, lauded the honorees, stating, "The MO 100 Top Impact CEO Ranking celebrates leaders who harness the power of capitalism to foster shared prosperity. These CEOs are driving transformative change, championing a new paradigm of capitalism that prioritizes positive outcomes for all stakeholders." The 2024 MO 100 ranking spotlights 100 executives spearheading social and environmental impact within high-growth enterprises. These leaders exemplify the value of stakeholder-focused business models, which prioritize the well-being of shareholders, employees, customers, communities, and the environment alike. With half the world's population relying on rice for sustenance, Lotus Foods has long been at the forefront of promoting sustainable rice farming practices and biodiversity. Since its inception in 1995, the company has championed organic farming methods, farmer resilience, and initiatives empowering women. Lotus Foods' latest Impact Report showcases its ongoing commitment to creating positive change in the industry and in rice-farming communities. Burke and his fellow honorees will be celebrated at the MO 100 Awards Gala during the 2024 MO CEO Summit, scheduled for April 15-17, 2024, in Austin, Texas. The event will convene 200 purpose-driven CEOs for insightful panels, networking opportunities, and collaborative endeavors. About Lotus Foods Since 1995, Lotus Foods has partnered in direct and fair trade with small family farmers around the world who are growing rice more sustainably while preserving rice biodiversity. Lotus Foods' product line includes pigmented heirloom and organic rice varieties such as Forbidden Rice, Jade Pearl Rice, Red Rice, traditional Basmati and Jasmine Rice and Tri-color Rice as well as Rice Ramen, Pad Thai Rice Noodles and Rice Ramen Noodle Soup Cups. Products are available at major retailers nationwide. As a certified B Corporation, Lotus Foods is committed to "Changing How Rice Is Grown around the World" by focusing on rice grown using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), which we call More Crop Per Drop. SRI minimizes water usage, builds soil, empowers women, rewards farmers with higher yields, and reduces climate impact. Lotus Foods' basmati farmers who use these practices were the first rice farmers ever to be Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC), and recently achieved the Gold level, making Lotus Foods' Organic White and Brown Basmati Rice the only ROC Gold certified rice. SOURCE Lotus Foods After years of searching for a manufacturer willing to tackle the complex prototyping, injection molding, and commercial production of her one-of-a-kind dry shampoo product, Michelle Kim, founder of m'Chel, discovered Fictiv. Not only did Fictiv step up to the challenge of this program where others wouldn't, but Fictiv accelerated time-to-market for Kim significantly and helped get the product to market in just one yearwell ahead of schedule. "Regardless of what facet of the project we were working onprototyping, tooling, finishingI had confidence in Fictiv's expertise and knew I was in good hands," said Kim. Through its global manufacturing network, best-in-class supply chain, and operations teams, supported by Fictiv's AI-powered technology platform, they provided m'Chel with virtually unlimited manufacturing capacity across a wide range of capabilities and ongoing design for manufacturability, program management, and logistics support. According to Kim, "I went from constantly fighting through manufacturing roadblocks to working with an incredible team who made quality manufacturing a reality." Furthermore, "Fictiv handled everything I normally would have had to do myself, including identifying the right suppliers, sourcing and then manufacturing each part, as well as all the logistics and shipping details." The patented Day After Brush was produced using Fictiv's market-leading capabilities, including injection molding, overmolding, compression molding, ultrasonic welding, 3D printing, product validation, screen printing, bristle grafting, and design for manufacturability guidance. "Fictiv simplified the manufacturing process and eliminated many of the barriers I experienced with other manufacturers," said Kim. "Fictiv explained their capabilities and showed me my options, including how to make my product more cost-effective." "Most factories require minimum order quantities of 10,000 to 100,000 units during low-volume production," said Andy Richardson, VP of Business Development at Fictiv. "That's a large commitment for a new company looking to enter the market. At Fictiv, we don't put those types of restrictions on our customers. We focus on simplifying their full journey from prototyping to production." By partnering with Fictiv, customers of all sizes can access a Fortune 500-class supply chain, complete with extensive capabilities, hands-on quality management and guided expertise, and a best-in-class technology platform for quoting, DFM, and order tracking to accelerate innovation. To learn more about m'Chel's manufacturing success with Fictiv, read the full story here . About Fictiv Fictiv is a global manufacturing company that simplifies sourcing for custom manufacturing, from prototype to low-volume production. Through its highly-vetted manufacturing network, AI-powered technology platform, and global operations centers across the USA, Mexico, India, and China, Fictiv delivers fast, high-quality custom manufacturing services from quote to delivery. Fictiv's capabilities span the full mechanical bill of materials, including Injection Molding, Compression Molding, 3D Printing, CNC Machining, Die Casting, and Sheet Metal. To date, Fictiv has delivered more than 30 million commercial and prototype parts for early-stage companies and large enterprises alike, helping them innovate faster, free up precious resources, and drive profitable growth. About m'Chel Haircare m'Chel Haircare specializes in natural, sustainable products for hair. The company's signature product, the Day After Brush, is a reusable dry shampoo applicator that works with an organic, gentle dry shampoo powder. Media Contacts 5W PR for Fictiv [email protected] Christine Evans Sr Director, Communications [email protected] SOURCE Fictiv NEW YORK, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Middle East and Africa (MEA) - Renewable Energy Market size is expected to grow by USD 15.00 billion, acceleration at a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. Request Sample Report Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Renewable Energy Market in MEA 2023-2027 Rise in energy demand is notably driving the market in Middle East and Africa. However, factors such as competition from alternative energy sources may impede market growth. We provide a detailed analysis of 20 companies operating in the renewable energy market in Middle East and Africa including Acciona SA, ACWA Power International, AKER HORIZONS, AKUO ENERGY SAS, AMEA Power, Electricite de France SA, Enel Spa, Enerwhere Sustainable Energy, Masdar, MVV Energie AG, PV Technology Inc., Saudi Arabian Oil Co., Scatec ASA, Siraj Power Contracting LLC, SolarAfrica Energy Pty Ltd., Solarwind M.E., SunPower Corp., Yellow Door Energy, ENGIE SA, and IBC SOLAR AG. Company Analysis Acciona SA: The company offers renewable energy water projects at South Africa and Egypt. This report provides a full list of key companies, their strategies, and latest developments. Buy The Full Report Now for detailed company information. The report is segmented by End-user Residential Industrial Commercial Type Hydropower Wind Solar Others The residential segment is expected to experience notable expansion during the forecast period. Elevated energy consumption has adverse environmental implications, including air pollution, the greenhouse effect, and the urban heat island effect. Utilizing clean energy instead of finite resources stands out as the most efficient approach to conserving energy in residential areas. This shift enables the US to address the escalating energy needs of households while safeguarding and preserving limited resources for the benefit of future generations, all while upholding environmental principles. Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View PDF Sample Report The Market is experiencing a transformative shift, particularly in nations like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where solar energy projects are flourishing. The region, rich in natural gas resources, is diversifying its energy portfolio, spurred by initiatives like the Pan Arab Clean Energy Initiative and support from organizations such as the International Renewable Energy Agency. Solar PV installations are gaining momentum, with projects like E-trees blending technology and sustainability. However, challenges remain, as highlighted by the Global Energy Monitor, underscoring the importance of collaboration among Arab countries to overcome barriers and propel the MEA region towards a greener future. Related Reports: Renewable Energy Market: The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.91% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by 1,776.08 GW. Renewable Energy Investment Market: The market share is expected to increase by USD 168.43 billion from 2021 to 2026, at a CAGR of 7.59%. ToC: 1 Executive Summary 2 Landscape 3 Sizing 4 Historic Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Segmentation by Propulsion 7 Segmentation by Vehicle Type 8 Customer Landscape 9 Geographic Landscape 10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 11 Vendor Landscape 12 Vendor Analysis 13 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio Almost ten years after founding Mentor Collective, Jackson Boyar will step down from his current role as CEO. As Executive Chairman, he will continue to play a vital role in overseeing the company's long-term growth. Under Boyar's leadership, the company has transformed how universities and colleges harness the power of mentorship. Partners like Florida Atlantic University , University of Arizona Online, and Saddleback Community College, have seen impressive gains in student belonging and persistence when implementing the company's unique peer mentoring solutions. In 2023, Mentor Collective was named to the Inc. 5000 List for the fourth year in a row and was listed as one of the 50 best fully remote startups by BuiltIn. "Mentor Collective would not be half the company it is today without Erin's dynamic leadership across product, engineering, marketing, and operations," said Boyar. "Erin is an exceptional leader, and human, who has a deep connection to the exact issues Mentor Collective enables institutions to solve and an impressive track record of helping high-impact companies to scale." Mayhood is a veteran Edtech leader and former higher education administrator who brings a wealth of experience to the role. Most recently, she spent seven years in executive leadership roles at Interfolio before joining Mentor Collective in 2020. Erin launched Interfolio's first B2B Enterprise solution and helped the company define and win the Faculty Information System category in US and UK higher education. "We are bombarded every day with headlines about how disconnected young people are, how universities and colleges are struggling to cope with the wellbeing crisis that has gripped the nation," said Mayhood, "Mentor Collective's mission is to make life-changing relationships integral to every student's education. As a first-generation college student, I experienced the transformative power of mentorship in my own life. The importance of human connection and relationships to student success can not be underestimated, particularly for students like me who may not always have been given a clear path to follow. I am delighted and honored to lead this mission-driven organization, to build on the Founders' exceptional leadership, and to accelerate Mentor Collective's momentum as a category leader in student success. "We are delighted that Jackson is stepping into the Executive Chairman role. Jackson has been the keeper of the Mentor Collective mission from inception and has been pivotal to the company's success. We have witnessed first-hand Erin's visionary approach and exceptional leadership skills. She is the perfect CEO for Mentor Collective in the next phase of the company's evolution. We are thrilled to have Erin as the first female CEO in the Resolve Growth Partners. We are confident that her leadership will propel Mentor Collective to further expand its impact on higher education within this country. Every student deserves a mentor who can help them thrive in college and beyond," said Jit Sinha, Co-Founder of Resolve Growth Partners. Committed to enhancing the student experience through the power of peer relationships, Mentor Collective's impact on student engagement, belonging and persistence are unparalleled in the industry. Under Mayhood's leadership, Mentor Collective is poised for further growth and to make a lasting impact in the world of higher education. To learn more about the Mentor Collective visit mentorcollective.org . Connect with Mentor Collective on social media: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/mentorcollective X: @mentorcollectiv Instagram: @mentorcollective Facebook: www.facebook.com/mentorcollective About Mentor Collective Mentor Collective is an education technology provider that drives student belonging and retention through research-backed, scalable peer mentorship solutions. Supported by Lumina Foundation, Mentor Collective's proprietary approach to student success brings student insights to the forefront of strategic planning. The company partners with 180+ institutions to unlock the transformative power of peer relationships and catalyze student success practices with actionable peer insights. SOURCE Mentor Collective Effort utilizes novel technology to increase opportunities for lifesaving transplant matches CLEVELAND, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The MetroHealth System is partnering with InVita Healthcare Technologies and Lifebanc, the federally designated Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) serving Northeast Ohio, to automate and enhance the organ and tissue donation process. The partnership recently launched the healthcare interoperability platform iReferral at four MetroHealth facilities. The novel technology links MetroHealth's Epic health records system with InVita's iTransplant System utilized by Lifebanc, allowing for automatic referral of MetroHealth patients who are potential organ and/or tissue donors to Lifebanc. It replaces the prior time-intensive and manual telephonic donor referral process and allows MetroHealth's providers and nurses to focus more time on clinical care while improving compliance with federal requirements regarding donation and transplantation. "This effort builds on MetroHealth's long partnership with Lifebanc to provide lifesaving organ and tissue donations to transplant recipients, allowing literally thousands of individuals across the region to live happy and healthy lives," says MetroHealth President and CEO Dr. Airica Steed, Ed.D, RN, MBA, FACHE. "By collaborating with InVita we can augment that effort by using technology to ensure we can properly identify all potential organ donors and efficiently match them with needy recipients." With more than 100,000 patients on the nation's transplant waitlist awaiting a lifesaving organ, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulations mandate hospitals refer all potential organ and tissue donors to their federally designated OPO. With each donor having the ability to save up to eight (8) lives through organ transplantation and enhance over seventy-five (75) more through tissue donation, every donation opportunity and donor referral is of critical importance. "This innovative collaboration signifies a new era of efficiency in organ procurement," said Gordon Bowen, Lifebanc CEO. "As an organization and community, we are continually seeking advancements, and the integration of iReferral embodies just that. Through this cutting-edge technology we are not only streamlining processes within MetroHealth facilities, but also restoring hope to the hands of our recipients." "Several years ago, Lifebanc launched our iReferral interoperability and was one of the first OPOs to achieve electronic donor referrals," said Todd Collins, President & CEO of InVita Healthcare Technologies. "Congratulations to their team and MetroHealth on this recent launch to simultaneously improve and increase organ and tissue donation and achieve key efficiencies especially in a critical care setting." About MetroHealth | metrohealth.org Founded in 1837, MetroHealth is leading the way to a healthier you and a healthier community through service, teaching, discovery, and teamwork. Cuyahoga County's public, safety-net hospital system, MetroHealth meets people where they are, providing care through five hospitals, four emergency departments, and more than 20 health centers and 40 additional sites. Each day, our nearly 9,000 employees focus on providing our community with equitable health carethrough patient-focused research, access to care, and support servicesthat seeks to eradicate health disparities rooted in systematic barriers. About Lifebanc| lifebanc.org Lifebanc is Northeast Ohio's non-profit organ, eye and tissue recovery organization with a mission to save and heal lives. The organization serves over 4 million people and works with 80 hospitals in a 20-county area. Lifebanc facilitates the organ, eye and tissue recovery and donation processes, provides extensive care and support services to donor families, as well as coordinates community outreach and education programs to encourage registration on the Ohio Donor Registry. For more information on Lifebanc or to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor visit www.lifebanc.org. About InVita Healthcare Technologies | invitahealth.com InVita provides mission-critical and chain-of-custody software technologies for complex medical, forensic, and community care environments. InVita's solutions streamline clinical workflows, optimize supply chains, sample tracking, and visibility across donation and transplantation, blood and plasma operations, the tissue and implant lifecycle, and environments spanning DNA and forensics. InVita continues to expand the iReferral and iTransplant platforms supporting nearly 75% of all OPOs in the United States and used by more than 15,000 medical professionals across more than 100 organ, tissue, eye, and birth tissue organizations around the world. SOURCE InVita Healthcare Technologies Mobileum will deploy an integrated Connected Car suite, including Connectivity Management Platform, IoT Fraud Management & IoT Service Assurance Solutions CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobileum Inc. ("Mobileum"), a leading global provider of telecom analytics solutions, is pleased to announce that NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), an NTT Group subsidiary, selected Mobileum to provide the technology platform to deliver its connected car solutions to a global car OEM business case. Mobileum provides connectivity management, connectivity testing and fraud prevention solutions for the connected car market. The solution provides an integrated approach, for eSIM connectivity management, quality testing and fraud detection and prevention across NTT Com connected cars portfolio. According to Juniper Research, the number of connected cars is projected to surge by 91%, reaching 367 million by 2027, up from 192 million in 2023. Car manufacturers are increasingly providing connected car infotainment, safety, and utility services to create new digital revenue streams and enhanced customer experiences. To ensure the security and quality of these services, manufacturers require a platform for testing connectivity, expanding digital services, and safeguarding end-customers. NTT Com will rely on Mobileum's integrated solution, combining a Connectivity Management Platform (CMP) with Service Assurance and Fraud Management solutions to deliver a consistent and high-quality customer journey for car manufacturers. This will allow NTT Com to deploy, test, and secure extensive connected infrastructures, meeting the evolving needs of the automotive industry. With the proliferation of digital services and the expanding connected car fleet, the automotive industry faces heightened concerns regarding continuous connectivity, introducing security and fraud risks that can adversely affect various stakeholders, including car manufacturers, businesses, and consumers. The surge in data generated by connected cars places corporate commercial fleets at an increased vulnerability to potential ransomware threats. Consumer privacy, security, and personal data are now more exposed to potential fraudsters. To address these challenges, car manufacturers are particularly susceptible to ransomware attacks. With the implementation of a combined Connectivity Management Platform and IoT Fraud Management solution, NTT Com can mitigate these risks, ensuring a safe and secure IoT connectivity experience for its advanced vehicles and mobility customers. Mobileum's IoT Fraud Management solution leverages Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence and continuously learns from data processed by the system, enabling NTT Com to assess potential risks, define controls, monitor events, and implement and track remediation plans on demand. Its advanced analytical capabilities provide NTT Com with real-time, end-to-end visibility to avoid significant risk events and prevent potential losses. Mobileum's IoT Service Assurance solution responds to the rapid expansion of IoT devices across diverse markets. This empowers OEMs to deliver reliable services not only domestically but also internationally, ensuring comprehensive coverage and seamless service continuity for IoT deployments. Mobileum's solution assesses IoT services on both core and radio network infrastructures, conducting end-to-end testing of platform connectivity, data transfer, data integrity, and application monitoring, while also validating power-saving features for IoT devices. "As part of our mission to deliver high-value solutions to our enterprise customers, NTT Com is focused on ensuring an optimal customer experience. We chose Mobileum because they demonstrated an extensive understanding of our customers' needs as well as our requirements and showed proven expertise along the connectivity management, testing and fraud prevention. Mobileum's connected car solutions are flexible, forward-looking, and expand our capacity to provide car connectivity in good quality and visibility with fraud prevention, which will ultimately help improve customer experience." stated Yuji Tamai, Director of 5G&IoT Services, NTT Communications. "As the connected car market keeps growing, IoT connectivity management, connected car testing, assurance and fraud prevention will be key priorities for the automotive industry. Service providers like NTT Communication are in a unique position to accelerate the connected car market growth, delivering fast, dependable, and safe connectivity. Mobileum is excited to play a pivotal role in expanding their underlying connectivity management, testing, security, and fraud prevention capabilities", stated Raja Hussain, Chief Revenue Officer at Mobileum, "Mobileum is committed to its presence in Japan and has incorporated a local subsidiary, Mobileum Japan KK in 2022 to continue to invest more in Japan." To learn more about Mobileum's IoT & Connected Car solutions, visit Mobileum's stand (Hall 2J50) at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, from February 26-29, 2024. About Mobileum Inc. Mobileum is a leading provider of Telecom analytics solutions for roaming, core network, security, risk management, domestic and international connectivity testing, and customer intelligence. More than 1,000 customers rely on its Active Intelligence platform, which provides advanced analytics solutions, allowing customers to connect deep network and operational intelligence with real-time actions that increase revenue, improve customer experience, and reduce costs. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Mobileum has global offices in Australia, Germany, Greece, India, Japan, Portugal, Singapore, UK, and United Arab Emirates. Learn more in https://www.mobileum.com/ and follow @MobileumInc on Twitter About NTT Communications NTT Communications solves global technology challenges by helping enterprises utilize managed IT-infrastructure solutions to overcome complexity and risk in their IT environments. These solutions are backed by our worldwide infrastructure, including industry-leading, global tier-1 public and private networks reaching over 190 countries/regions, the world's most advanced data-center facilities (more than 500,000m2) and cutting-edge technologies for cloud, security and AI. As the core provider of the DOCOMO group's enterprise-business services and solutions, we create value by providing global-scale support for restructuring in industry and society, new workstyles and digital transformation in communities, leveraging 5G, IoT and other technologies under the "docomo business" brand. Together with NTT Ltd., NTT Data and NTT DOCOMO, we are the NTT Group. Learn more in https://www.ntt.com/en/about-us/ Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1431792/Mobileum_Logo.jpg SOURCE Mobileum Sussex County Prosecutor's Office, Vernon Township Police Department, and ASPCA rescued the dogs of varying breeds, sizes, and ages, including some who are underweight, severely matted, and have untreated infections and injuries, after they were found living in filthy conditions among their own feces and urine The dogs are being transported to the ASPCA's Cruelty Recovery Center for sheltering, medical treatment, and behavioral care and enrichment VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On Feb. 20, 2024, at the request of the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and the Vernon Township Police Department, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) assisted in the removal of more than 90 maltreated dogs from the property of a self-described animal rescue group in Vernon Township, N.J. The animals, including young puppies, were seized by law enforcement after they were found living in filthy conditions among their own feces and urine and exposed to high levels of ammonia. Some of the animals had dirty, severely matted coats, including one dog who was found with nails matted into their fur. Some dogs were also underweight and had untreated medical conditions including eye infections and injuries. Several dogs were living in cars, and deceased dogs were also found on the property. Acting Supervising Assistant Prosecutor/Special Deputy Attorney General Brent Rafuse of the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office indicated that the owners of the property, Gizela Juric and Ronald Colgan, have been charged in a criminal complaint with six counts of animal cruelty charges relating to both the deceased dogs found on the property as well as the failure to provide the animals with necessary care. Gizela Juric was previously charged with animal cruelty on Feb. 2, 2024, in connection with the death of a fifth dog in her care. "The ASPCA is grateful to be in a position where we can collaborate with local agencies across the country to provide critical resources and expertise to rescue at-risk animals and bring them to safety," said Teresa Ladner, senior director of Investigations for the ASPCA. "It's clear these dogs were not receiving adequate treatment despite the fact that they were under the care of a self-described animal rescue group, and we commend the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and the Vernon Township Police Department for intervening to help end their suffering." Acting Sussex County Prosecutor Carolyn Murray acknowledges the professionalism of the Vernon Township Police Department and the ASPCA for their assistance in this ongoing investigation. The ASPCA is transporting the dogs to its Cruelty Recovery Center, a facility dedicated to providing temporary sheltering, medical care, and behavioral treatment and enrichment to animals rescued from emergency situations such as suspected cruelty and neglect. The ASPCA is also assisting with operational planning, evidence collection, crime scene processing, veterinary forensics exams, and behavior evaluations. Animal cruelty charges are pending based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office. The ASPCA is providing investigative and legal assistance to further support the investigation and prosecution and to ensure the best legal outcome for the animals. The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. About the ASPCA Founded in 1866, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation's leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. SOURCE ASPCA Svitlana Arefnia, a family psychologist known for her participation in many STB shows, shared her advice on how to help people who have returned from the frontline get used to civilian life so as not to harm either them or their relationships. First of all, one should not interrogate about the events in the combat zone. According to the psychologist, this will cause even more damage to the mental state. ADVERTISIMENT In an interview with Slava Demin on the Slava+ project on YouTube, Arefnia explained that ideally, both the military, for whom it will be treatment, and their families should work with specialists. In particular, there is no need to be afraid of mental rehabilitation - it is the only way to fully adapt a military to a relatively peaceful life. "There are two sides to this. First, all military personnel returning from the front need to undergo rehabilitation. And nowadays rehabilitation is developing as a multidisciplinary one: not only a psychologist, not only a psychotherapist, but also a sociologist, psychiatrist, neurologist... There are many specialists who deal with the adaptation of military personnel to civilian life, and this is the main thing. The second is working with military families. There are a lot of projects and centers that teach families how to deal with the military, because there are many recommendations that need to be followed," the psychologist explained. ADVERTISIMENT She also provided three tips to follow if there is currently no opportunity to visit specialists, but you need to help your husband "return to reality." The most important of these is strict control over issues of service. 1. Do not ask the soldier about what happened at the front "If they don't tell you, if they don't share their emotions, you shouldn't pull them out, you shouldn't blame them, you shouldn't force them to tell you what happened there. Because he somehow contained these experiences, he somehow learned to live with them during this time, he learned to cope with these experiences. Any control over these processes can only be done under the supervision of a specialist," Arefnia said. ADVERTISIMENT 2. Observe the person's behavior "Watch how they adapt, creating comfortable conditions as much as possible. This does not mean [you have to do everything the military wants]. Give the person time to adapt. Don't ask, don't put pressure, just observe what the person does, how they adapt, what they ask for. Listen to this in the first moments," she added. 3. Reflections on the future and pleasant memories "If you realize that the person has more or less adapted, that he or she is eating, not crying, screaming, hiding, closing the curtains, or tossing and turning at night, that is, everything is fine and there are no symptoms of the disease, then you can return to pleasant memories. And from this, you can build a bridge to your dreams," the psychologist explained about the last stage of "home" rehabilitation. ADVERTISIMENT Svitlana Arefnia also noted that the military's rejection of civilian life is due to the loss of the meaning of life in a peaceful environment. Because of this, many soldiers "dream" of returning to the front to join their comrades. "Therefore, if you start organizing his life so that he can adapt, somehow involve him in some activity. You start dreaming "when the war is over, we'll go away with you..." You find things to do together, involve him in some simple activity, and he begins to feel needed here and now," she said. However, we should not forget that after returning from the combat zone, a man can be completely different: sometimes more callous, sometimes indifferent, but definitely not the same as he was before in civilian life. ADVERTISIMENT "This is the first thing a woman faces and has to come to terms with. This is a different person, so try to get to know this person again. And you definitely need to be patient. You need to find new features. No pressure, no rush, no accusations," Arefnia said. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Afterglow collection offers designer style that feels like activewear SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mrs Momma Bear Workwear, the fashion brand featuring elegant-elevated separates that wear like activewear, has released its second collection, now available online and at its Aspen boutique. Mrs Momma Bear Afterglow Collection The 14-piece Afterglow collection offers fashion-forward jumpsuits, blazers, suits and pants that can be mixed and matched, ranging in price from $475 to $1,900. It is inspired by an array of looks ranging from Italian lace to corsets. Mrs Momma Bear founder and designer Lee Evans Lee is a fifth-generation West Texan and brings elements of Western culture to the line, with nods to her mother's rodeo queen jackets. "While my latest collection offers an assortment of fashion-forward pieces, it was ultimately designed for comfort," said Lee. "Afterglow is not only beautiful but also durable and functional, so those who wear the clothes will feel empowered and confident as they move through each day." Each piece contains nylon, Lycra and spandex that provide extraordinary comfort and easy care, with every item being machine washable. The fit is created with an intuitive and cohesive 3D garment design software, CLO, that brings Lee's vision of each piece of clothing to life. In addition to online and at the Aspen boutique, located at 533 East Hopkins Ave., Afterglow will be available at sloan/hall in Houston and San Antonio beginning March 1. To view the collection, visit www.mrsmommabear.com or follow @mrsmommabearworkwear on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. About Mrs Momma Bear Workwear Mrs Momma Bear Workwear is an innovative, San Antonio-based workwear brand founded in 2023 by fifth-generation Texas rancher Lee Evans Lee. Mrs Momma Bear redefines fashion with activewear comfort and designer style, making it effortless to transition from work to play. Designed to be durable and functional, these fashion-forward pieces empower individuals to tackle their busy lives without compromising elegance or glamor. Mrs Momma Bear is now available online at mrsmommabear.com or in person at Mrs Momma Bear Aspen or lifestyle boutique sloan/hall in Houston and San Antonio. MEDIA CONTACT: Ashley Lennington, SPM Communications [email protected] 214-379-7000 SOURCE Mrs Momma Bear Workwear WASHINGTON, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of NASA's CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative and Artemis campaign, Intuitive Machines is targeting no earlier than 5:49 p.m. EST Thursday, Feb. 22, to land their Odysseus lunar lander near Malapert A in the South Pole region of the Moon. Intuitive Machines is targeting Thursday, Feb. 22, for the landing of their Odysseus lunar lander on the surface of the Moon as part of NASA's CLPS initiative and Artemis campaign. Credits: Intuitive Machines Live landing coverage will air on NASA+, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website. NASA TV can be streamed on a variety of platforms, including social media. Coverage will include live streaming and blog updates beginning 4:15 p.m., as the landing milestones occur. Upon successful landing, Intuitive Machines and NASA will host a news conference to discuss the mission and science opportunities that lie ahead as the company begins lunar surface operations. In May 2019, the agency awarded a task order for scientific payload delivery to Intuitive Machines. Odysseus launched at 1:05 a.m., Feb. 15, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA is working with several U.S. companies to deliver science and technology to the lunar surface through the agency's CLPS initiative. This pool of companies may bid on task orders for end-to-end delivery services, which includes payload integration and operations, launching from Earth, and landing on the surface of the Moon. NASA's CLPS contracts are indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contracts with a cumulative maximum contract value of $2.6 billion through 2028. Through the Artemis campaign, commercial robotic deliveries will perform science experiments, test technologies, and demonstrate capabilities to help NASA explore the Moon in advance of Artemis Generation astronaut missions to the lunar surface, and ultimately crewed missions to Mars. Watch, engage on social media Let people know you're following the mission on X, Facebook, and Instagram by using the hashtag #Artemis. You can also stay connected by following and tagging these accounts: X: @NASA, @NASA_Johnson, @NASAArtemis, @NASAMoon Facebook: NASA, NASAJohnsonSpaceCenter, NASAArtemis Instagram: @NASA, @NASAJohnson, @NASAArtemis For more information about the agency's Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative, see: https://www.nasa.gov/clps SOURCE NASA Inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall and the Templeton Prize, the research initiative will support three National Geographic Explorers as they seek to uncover critical insights into animal behavior WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Geographic Society announced today the launch of the Wildlife Intelligence Project , an initiative that will fund and follow three National Geographic Explorers as they embark on animal cognition and behavior research that will potentially adapt how humans view, interact and connect with wildlife. Inspired by the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jane Goodall DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace, and the Templeton Prize , the National Geographic Society conducted a rigorous global search to find three of the best emerging early-career scientists whose work seeks to answer questions and provide us with better insights into the minds and behaviors of animals and what drives their decisions. "We are proud to launch the Wildlife Intelligence Project and to support and empower the next generation of scientists committed to furthering Dr. Goodall's legacy of inspiring people to take action to protect the wonder of our world," said Ian Miller, Chief Scientist and Innovation Officer, National Geographic Society. "The questions they seek to answer about animal intelligence will provide invaluable knowledge for both the scientific community and humanity as a whole." The researchers selected are: Mauricio Cantor , a Brazilian biologist and assistant professor at Oregon State University, will examine cooperative behavior among dolphins and humans across three sites in Brazil, India and Myanmar. Cantor will examine whether specific ecological conditions have contributed to the evolution of human-dolphin cooperation among fishing communities in these regions. Cantor heads the Lab for Animal Behavioural Interaction Research In The Ocean (LABIRINTO) and serves as adjunct faculty at two universities in Brazil where he teaches and supervises ocean behavioral ecology. Felicity Muth is the head of the Muth Lab and assistant professor in the department of neurobiology, physiology and behavior at the University of California Davis. Muth's research will explore how ecology shapes the behavior of wild bees. Working with wild bees from rural Nevada and California, Felicity will study how the surrounding environment affects how bees learn and make decisions. Muth is a prolific science communicator and recently published a children's book on bee diversity titled "Am I Even a Bee?" Tiago Falotico is a Brazilian primatologist and ethologist who studies the behavior, social learning and culture of wild primates. Falotico's research will focus on the use of tools among wild capuchin monkeys in Brazil's Serra da Capivara and Ubajara National Parks. Using a primate archaeology approach, he will compare tool use behavior between different sexes and groups of capuchin monkeys to help drive a better understanding of primate cognition, cultural behavior and human evolution. Inspired by Dr. Jane Goodall receiving the 2021 Templeton Prize, the Templeton World Charity Foundation awarded the National Geographic Society with a grant to identify and fund the next generation of scientists that would reshape our understanding of animal intelligence and behavior. The Templeton Prize specifically celebrated Dr. Goodall's scientific and spiritual curiosity, and her unrelenting effort to connect humanity to a greater purpose. These explorers were chosen with these attributes in mind. "Dr. Goodall's work exemplifies the kind of humility, spiritual curiosity, and discovery Sir John Templeton wrote and spoke about during his life," said Tina Cambridge, President and COO of the Templeton World Charity Foundation. "We are thrilled that National Geographic Explorers awarded these emerging scientists with the support that will help them grow to mirror the impact of Dr. Goodall's long career and further our understanding of the richness of intelligences that exist in nature." "We know that understanding animal intelligence is central to building empathy. Jane's extraordinary work has shown the world that people are moved to protect a species when they understand and connect to them," said Anna Rathmann, Executive Director, Jane Goodall Institute. " We are pleased to be partnering with the National Geographic Society on the Wildlife Intelligence Project and look forward to seeing what new insights we can gain." At just 26 years old, Dr. Goodall's trailblazing research transformed our understanding of chimpanzees and redefined the relationship between humans and animals. Now, at nearly 90, the conservation icon reflects on the next generations of researchers, "We are all interconnected, people, animals, our environment. The work being done by the recipients of the Wildlife Intelligence Project is essential to developing a better understanding of human-animal behavior and the healthy functioning of our planet. When nature flourishes, we all flourish," said Dr. Jane Goodall. Cantor, Falotico and Muth will conduct fieldwork as National Geographic Explorers that not only adapts their field of study, but also demonstrates unique diligence, receptivity and passion, all in the service of providing humanity with a new lens to understand the animal world and our relationship to it. In addition to funding the field work, the Society will provide each researcher with training and support from the Exploration Technology Lab. ABOUT NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories and content. To learn more, visit www.nationalgeographic.org or follow us on Instagram , LinkedIn and Facebook . Press Contact: Salma Bahramy [email protected] SOURCE National Geographic Society DUBENDORF, Switzerland and GETTYSBURG, Pa., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Odne Inc., a pioneering high-tech endodontic startup based in Switzerland, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jeff Durrbeck as the President of US Operations. With over two decades of outstanding performance in endodontics, surgical and AI-digital dental management, sales, and corporate sales training, Jeff brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Odne team. President Odne Inc. Throughout his career, Jeff Durrbeck has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a proven track record in recruiting, hiring, and training top-ranked National, Regional, Key Account, and Territory Managers. His remarkable abilities have led to significant achievements in landing Key Opinion Leaders, National Accounts, Large Group, Government, Hospital, and University accounts. Jeff Durrbeck's specialties encompass a wide range of crucial areas including start-up strategies, key account management, team building, endodontic/surgical solutions, capital equipment sales, and marketing. His proficiency in sales training, growth strategies, and market expansion has consistently driven success for the companies he has served. Moreover, Jeff's expertise in minimally invasive dentistry and AI technologies aligns perfectly with Odne Inc.'s mission to revolutionize endodontic care through innovation. Andreas Schmocker, CEO/Founder of Odne AG, expressed his enthusiasm about Durrbeck's appointment, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Jeff Durrbeck to the Odne family as President of U.S. Operations. With his extensive experience and remarkable track record in the dental industry, we are confident that Jeff will drive our growth and success in the U.S. market." Commenting on his new role, Jeff Durrbeck expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I am honored to join Odne Inc. and lead its US operations during this exciting phase of growth and innovation. Odne's commitment to advancing endodontic practices through cutting-edge technology is truly inspiring, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success." To serve the US endo specialist market, Odne has recently founded Odne Inc, USA. Jeff Durrbeck's appointment signals a strategic move aimed at leveraging his extensive experience and leadership to drive the company's growth trajectory. His appointment underscores Odne Inc.'s dedication to delivering unparalleled solutions and services to dental professionals across the United States. After FDA clearance of its products, Odne will present its technology platform for root canal cleaning and obturation to the endodontic community at the AAE annual meeting in Los Angeles in April, for the first time. About Odne Odne (Onde Ltd and Odne Inc) is a Swiss-US dental high-tech startup that has its roots in a groundbreaking collaboration between two renowned universities: the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology in Lausanne and Zurich (EPFL & ETH Zurich). Founded in 2018, Odne`s journey began by licensing cutting-edge technology assets from these esteemed institutes. Odne represents a perfect synergy of Swiss precision and academic excellence. With a deep understanding of dental practices, Odne Inc. aims to enhance patient outcomes and transform clinical workflows in endodontics worldwide.Endodontics, the field of dental medicine that deals with root canal treatments, has been marred by complexity and unpredictability. Odne AG is on a mission to change that. Root canal treatments have long posed challenges for dentists, with traditionally low success rates ranging from 46% to 91%. With over 60 million annual treatments worldwide, these failures result in significant healthcare costs. Odne's technology platform addresses these issues by offering treatment options for both, dentists and their patients. Our products, slated for launch in 2024, tackle problems such as the obturation in complex morphologies. [Note to Editors: High-resolution images of Jeff Durrbeck and Odne Inc.'s logo are available upon request.] Disclaimer: OdneFill and OdneCure are cleared for use in the U.S.A only. All other Odne devices are currently in development and have not received clinical approval in any jurisdiction. For further information contact: Holger Essig, General Manager / Head of Global Marketing Odne AG, Ringstrasse 14, 8600 Dubendorf, Switzerland [email protected] www.odne.co SOURCE Odne Inc. Delivers Significant Enhancements in Hardware Efficiency, Enterprise Management and Gun Detection Accuracy to Better Save Lives in an Active Shooter Situation LEESBURG, Va., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Omnilert , a leader in active shooter solutions, today announced the release of its third generation AI visual gun detection system , featuring significant advancements designed to further advance the industry's most effective gun detection system. As the only solution to deliver a unique combination of detection, verification, activation and notification, Omnilert Gun Detect now protects hundreds of schools, universities, hospitals, retail and commercial buildings, and other organization facilities and campuses around the country. The enhancements made in this new release increase the company's technology leadership with hardware efficiency, enterprise management and gun detection accuracy. Omnilert alert notifications feature rich situational intelligence of suspected gun detections for human verification, that could be either Omnilerts monitoring centers or the customers security operations center. Automated response and lock-down scenarios can be activated at the touch of a button. These customized plans could include lock doors, notify police, alert all students and staff onsite and provide real-time location and details of the shooter to first responders. This is just one example of Omnilerts organic training data from a busy street in Tokyo, Japan. True, organic data is captured directly from video cameras in various real-world settings such as schools, hospitals, and busy public environments. Organic training data captures the unpredictability of real-life scenarios that a gun detection system must navigate. As opposed to green screen videos and other synthetic methods of data creation, this type of training enables the AI visual gun detection system to recognize threats more accurately, reducing the chance of false positives and missed gun detections. "Today's customers better understand the technology behind AI visual gun detection and they want more than just detection and verification; they are also concerned with the accuracy of the models and how they are trained, as well as the capabilities the system can provide throughout an entire active shooting incident," said Dave Fraser, CEO of Omnilert. "This new product release further boosts the core capabilities of Omnilert Gun Detect to empower customers with a layer of technology that can detect weapons with speed and accuracy, followed by a comprehensive and automatic response." "We can't respond our way out of these active shooter tragedies," said Chris Grollnek, Founder and Managing Principal of the Active Shooter Prevention Project. "Our first line of defense should be prevention and with Omnilert's ability to instantly identify a weapon either inside or outside a facility, this can provide first responders with the gift of time they need before shots are fired to ensure the best possible outcomes." Omnilert Gun Detect is an AI-powered visual gun detection software that delivers reliable, 24/7 monitoring of gun threats using existing security cameras. The system can identify a weapon in a fraction of a second, Omnilert Monitoring can verify in as little as three seconds and then activate a response in only two more seconds that can include dispatching police, locking doors, sounding alarms and automating other responses to notify those in harm's way and save lives. One of the unique capabilities of the system is that it sends both still images and a short video clip when a threat is detected to provide more context to security personnel and first responders. During an event, it can also deliver ongoing situational awareness about the location and details of the shooter so important decisions can be made based on the timeliest data. Enhancements to Omnilert Gun Detect With the third generation of this system, Omnilert has added several key enhancements that provide customers effective, efficient and accurate AI visual gun detection technology that can be easily added as a vital layer of their overall security efforts. Superior Hardware Efficiency Omnilert Gun Detect's AI architecture has been optimized to boost performance 10X for any given GPU over its original architecture, enabling more camera streams to be processed per server. Benefits of these enhancements include: Lower hardware costs for customers. High performance processing on highly available, commodity GPU and server platforms. (55) 1080P camera streams running at 15fps is achievable on a standard NVIDIA RTX 4060. Architecture efficiency for ensuring high frame rate video processing, providing 3-5X more opportunities to detect a gun every second vs. other solutions on the market. System operations occur at the provided frame rate in real time, instantly processing Variable Frame Rate streams from 1FPS to 30FPS without any delay in detection capability. PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) camera compatibility due to real time at frame rate analysis. Better Enterprise Management New clustering enhancements to Omnilert Gun Detect ensure enterprise deployment to tens of thousands of cameras across thousands of sites and servers manageable from a central console. Benefits of this include: Simplified management of large deployments across school districts, healthcare systems and throughout entire retail, commercial, government and corporate enterprises. Easily allows for centralized, dense rack server deployments in data centers to decentralized site-level server or appliance installations or a combination to accommodate a variety of networking topologies. Improved Detection Accuracy The Omnilert Gun Detect neural network model is in its 36th revision, with continual learning and refinements from curated organic video through real world customer deployments over its five years of development and fine tuning. This accuracy is unmatched in the industry compared to solutions created from image datasets that rely on synthetic/green screens or emulated data for training which produces artifacts not found in real life. This approach reduces the system's ability to be tuned or discern the difference between objects, resulting in higher false positives, more noise and significant operational burden irrespective of who is performing the verification function. In contrast, Omnilert's proprietary data centric AI model does not simply compare objects to a database of known gun images. It is based on raw video footage captured directly from security cameras in various real-life settings around the world and reflects the genuine complexities and nuances of everyday environments such as changing lighting conditions to specific human behaviors. This ensures higher detection accuracy and efficiency in processing which translates into lower hardware requirements. About Omnilert Omnilert is transforming public safety with the industry's most effective AI-powered active shooter prevention solution that combines early visual gun detection with a proven rapid response that can save time and lives. The Omnilert Gun Detect empowers existing security cameras with monitoring software that can identify gun threats at first sight and then activate automated response capabilities that maximize each critical second. Once a gun is verified, this could include locking doors, notifying first responders, sending images, location and video of the shooter; and sending alerts and guidance to anyone near the situation, all in mere seconds. Founded in 2004, Omnilert is the trusted partner to thousands of customers across multiple industries including K-12 schools, higher education, government, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. The company is headquartered in Virginia. For more information, visit https://omnilert.com/ . Media Contacts: Erika Powelson Omnilert Media Relations [email protected] 408-781-4981 SOURCE Omnilert, LLC DENVER, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Optiv, the cyber advisory and solutions leader, is accepting applications for its annual $10,000 scholarship for Black, African American identifying STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) students. Applications are accepted through May 15. Optiv's Black Employee Network (BEN) is awarding the one-time scholarship as part of the company's continued commitment to diversity within the cyber and information security fields. Previous recipients include AJ McCrory from James Madison University, Lauren Harris from Princeton University and Shemi Bukoye from North Carolina A&T. Applicants must meet the following qualifications to apply: Be a graduating high school senior Verify acceptance into an eligible degree program in a STEM related field (including but not limited to computer science, electrical engineering, math, etc.) Minimum cumulative high school GPA is 3.5 on 4.0 scale Be planning a career in cybersecurity/information security. Complete the scholarship application, including a one-page essay and two letters of reference Identify as Black and/or African American (African, African American, Caribbean , for example) and be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. national or permanent resident Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and learn more about the scholarship program here. "I am extremely thankful for the scholarship from Optiv's Black Employee Network. It's been a pivotal milestone in propelling my journey through undergraduate [studies] and realizing my dreams of working in cybersecurity," said Bukoye, last year's recipient. "This scholarship gives us an opportunity to foster the next generation of cybersecurity leaders," said Ben Wilson, BEN co-lead. "In addition to helping close the talent gap within the industry, this is an opportunity to advance the unique ideas and diverse perspectives that are critical in the complex and evolving threat landscape." Optiv honors and embraces the diverse perspectives, ideas, backgrounds and experiences of its people celebrated in part by the company's diversity, equity and inclusion that is highlighted through employee resource groups like BEN. For the latest news and updates from Optiv, visit https://www.optiv.com/company/optiv-newsroom. Follow Optiv Twitter: www.twitter.com/optiv LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/optiv-inc Facebook: www.facebook.com/optivinc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/OptivInc Blog: https://www.optiv.com/explore-optiv-insights/blog Optiv Security: Secure greatness. Optiv is the cyber advisory and solutions leader, delivering strategic and technical expertise to nearly 6,000 companies across every major industry. We partner with organizations to advise, deploy and operate complete cybersecurity programs from strategy and managed security services to risk, integration and technology solutions. With clients at the center of our unmatched ecosystem of people, products, partners and programs, we accelerate business progress like no other company can. At Optiv, we manage cyber risk so you can secure your full potential. For more information, visit www.optiv.com. SOURCE Optiv Security Inc. JERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "Global PARP Inhibitors Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Niraparib (Zejula), Olaparib (Lynparza), Rucaparib (Rubraca), Talazoparib (Talzenna), Veliparib, Other Pipeline Drugs), By Indication (breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate and pancreatic cancer), Region, Market Outlook And Industry Analysis 2031" The global PARP Inhibitors market is estimated to reach over USD 10.31 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.78% during the forecast period for 2023-2031. PARP Inhibitors Market Report Scope: Report Attribute Specifications Market Size Value In 2022 USD 3,071.9 Mn Revenue Forecast In 2031 USD 10,317.3 Mn Growth Rate CAGR CAGR of 14.78% from 2023 to 2031 Quantitative Units Representation of revenue in US$ Mn and CAGR from 2023 to 2031 Historic Year 2019 to 2022 Forecast Year 2023-2031 Report Coverage The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends Segments Covered By Product and Indication Regional Scope North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa Country Scope U.S.; Canada; U.K.; Germany; China; India; Japan; Brazil; Mexico; The UK; France; Italy; Spain; China; Japan; India; South Korea; South East Asia; South Korea; South East Asia Get Sample copy of the Global PARP Inhibitors Market Report at: https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/request-sample/1169 PolyaDP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors consist of extended chains composed of 17 enzymes, which enable the transport of numerous ADP-ribose units to the intended target proteins. When DNA is harmed by various circumstances, including using multiple anti-cancer medications and exposure to UV radiation, this aids in its restoration. PARP inhibitors prevent an enzyme required for the repair of DNA single-strand breaks. Inhibition of this DNA repair enzyme can cause cell death in cancer cells that lack alternative DNA repair pathways. Hence, these inhibitors are widely utilized to treat a variety of malignancies, including ovarian and breast cancer. The market growth is predicted to be fueled by leading players' emphasis on research and development to create new products. Furthermore, the global market for PARP inhibitors is projected to grow as cancer incidence rates. However, market expansion is propelled by the strategic developments of market participants. The market for PARP inhibitors is anticipated to expand due to increased demand resulting from their efficacy. Significant factors expected to contribute to the market's substantial growth potential for PARP inhibitors are an increased emphasis by governments of developing countries on improving healthcare accessibility and a heightened awareness of contemporary technologies. List of Prominent Players in the PARP Inhibitors Market: Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. Merck KGaA GSK plc. Pfizer Inc. AbbVie Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Artios Pharma Genentech, Inc. Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc. Repare Therapeutics Inc ONO PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD Jiangsu Hengrui Pharma Co., Ltd. Bristol-Myers Squibb Co AstraZeneca plc Checkpoint Therapeutics, Inc. Eisai Co., Ltd. IMPACT Therapeutics JEIL PHARMA CO.,LTD. Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd SyntheX Market Dynamics: Drivers- Over the forecast period, the global market for PARP inhibitors is anticipated to expand due to the rising cancer incidence and the demand for pharmaceuticals. In addition, PARP inhibitors and chemotherapeutic agents may be utilized to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. It is anticipated that expanding research and development in cancer treatment will present manufacturers with advantageous prospects to introduce novel medications into the PARP inhibitor market. Challenges: PARP inhibitor side effects impede the market's growth. Strict regulations will prevent resistance to PARP inhibitors, another issue impeding market expansion. However, high expenses associated with clinical trials, stringent regulations, and frequent product recalls limit the market. Regional Trends: In the near future, the North American market for PARP Inhibitors is anticipated to account for a substantial portion of the revenue and expand at a rapid CAGR due to the region's advanced healthcare industry and substantial healthcare expenditures. The accessibility of authorized PARP inhibitors and the rising incidence of solid tumors in the region are two significant factors influencing the market's expansion. The demand for PARP inhibitors in the region is anticipated to increase over the forecast period due to the introduction of new products, the presence of significant market participants that emphasize research and development, and a rise in cancer incidence. Besides, Asia Pacific had a substantial share in the PARP Inhibitors market because of the expanding population. Due to increasing R&D efforts and healthcare spending, the Asia Pacific market is predicted to expand more quickly. It is anticipated that the demand for PARP inhibitors will grow due to investments made by large corporations in developing nations to meet unmet needs and strengthen their competitiveness. Curious about this latest version of the report? @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/enquiry-before-buying/1169 Recent Developments: In February 2023 , The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced updated results from the Phase 3 MAGNITUDE study evaluating the investigational use of niraparib, a highly selective poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone (AAP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with or without specific homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene alterations, including BRCA mutations. Results will be featured today in a Rapid Abstract Session (Abstract #170) at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium, taking place February 16-18 . The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced updated results from the Phase 3 MAGNITUDE study evaluating the investigational use of niraparib, a highly selective poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone (AAP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with or without specific homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene alterations, including BRCA mutations. Results will be featured today in a Rapid Abstract Session (Abstract #170) at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium, taking place . In October 2023 , Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex- China ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex- China ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex- ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex- ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. In October 2023 , Merck, announced a strategic collaboration with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd. (Hengrui). The partnership includes an exclusive license worldwide (ex- China ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's next-generation potent and selective PARP1 (poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1) trapping inhibitor HRS-1167. The agreement also includes an option to an exclusive license worldwide (ex- China ) to develop, manufacture and commercialize Hengrui's Claudin-18.2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) SHR-A1904. Segmentation of PARP Inhibitors Market- By Drug Type- Niraparib (Zejula) Olaparib (Lynparza) Rucaparib (Rubraca) Talazoparib (Talzenna) Veliparib Other Pipeline Drugs By Indication- Ovarian Cancer Breast cancer Prostate and Pancreatic Cancer By Region- North America- The US Canada Mexico Europe- Germany The UK France Italy Spain Rest of Europe Asia-Pacific- China Japan India South Korea South East Asia Rest of Asia Pacific Latin America- Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America Middle East & Africa- GCC Countries South Africa Rest of Middle East and Africa For More Customization @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/customisation/1169 Why should buy this report: To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for global PARP Inhibitors market To receive industry overview and future trends of global PARP Inhibitors market To analyse the PARP Inhibitors market drivers and challenges To get information on PARP Inhibitors market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2031 Major Investments, Mergers & Acquisition in global PARP Inhibitors market industry Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic: PD-1 and PD-L1 Inhibitors Market Oncology Drug Discovery & Development Market Bruton Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) Inhibitors Market Next Generation Complement Therapeutics Market KRAS Inhibitors Market About Us: InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis with key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner. Contact Us: InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. Tel.: +1 718 593 4405 Email: [email protected] Site Visit: www.insightaceanalytic.com Follow Us on LinkedIn @ bit.ly/2tBXsgS Follow Us On Facebook @ bit.ly/2H9jnDZ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1729637/InsightAce_Analytic_Logo.jpg SOURCE InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd AMSTERDAM, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Polpharma Biologics, an international biotech company dedicated to the development and manufacturing of biosimilars, today announced topline results demonstrating the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) comparability of its biosimilar candidate PB016 to its reference drug, Entyvio* (vedolizumab). Results came from a single-dose, randomized, double-blind, 3-arm parallel-group study assessing the PK/PD and immunogenicity for PB016 compared to Entyvio* after intravenous administration in 120 healthy subjects. PB016 was found to show comparability to Entyvio* in all investigated PK and PD parameters, with no immunogenicity or safety imbalances to the reference drug. "We are excited to share new data showing the PK/PD comparability of our investigational vedolizumab biosimilar to its reference drug. The results confirm its potential as a more affordable future option for 3.5 million patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases in Europe and in the US. As the frontrunner among biosimilar competitors, PB016 targets a market with over $5.3 billion in annual Entyvio* sales, expected to grow to over $7 billion by 2030", said Konstantin Matentzoglu, member of the Supervisory Board and the executive management, Polpharma Biologics Group. "With two biosimilars from our pipeline already partnered with highly reputable companies, we are proud that PB016 is the next Polpharma Biologics therapy which has entered late-stage development. Our scientists have developed it from cell line development to full-scale manufacturing in-house, an optimal position for securing future commercial partnerships for this asset." Polpharma Biologics is currently conducting a global clinical safety & efficacy study in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) to provide further evidence on the efficacy, safety and immunogenicity of PB016, as compared to the reference drug. Vedolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the 47 integrin, a protein found on gut homing T helper lymphocytes, reducing gastrointestinal inflammation.[1] It is approved in the US and Europe as a treatment for moderate-to-severe cases of UC and Crohn's disease[2],[3] - the two most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - and additionally for pouchitis in Europe.3 Vedolizumab is approved in over 70 countries worldwide, including Japan, Canada, and Australia, though its approved uses may vary. These chronic bowel conditions affect over 3.5 million people in Europe and the US, often significantly impacting patients' daily functioning and quality of life.[4] Factors like genetics and increasing urbanization may be contributing to growing prevalence of these diseases.[5] Polpharma Biologics is focused on broadening access to biological medicines used to treat some of the world's most impactful diseases across neurology, immunology, and ophthalmology. The company is at the forefront of the next wave in biopharma, leveraging its knowledge, capabilities, and footprint to develop its robust pipeline of more than seven biosimilars in early-late-stage development. *Entyvio is a trademark of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited. About Polpharma Biologics Polpharma Biologics is an international biotechnology company, with integrated operations in the European Union (EU), developing and manufacturing biosimilar medicines. Polpharma Biologics develops biosimilar therapies to treat a range of conditions in major therapeutic areas. Programs at Polpharma Biologics start in cell line development and transition through technical and clinical development to commercial-scale production, preparing drugs for future commercial partnerships with global pharmaceutical organizations. Under partnerships agreements, the company manufactures two approved biosimilars from its pipeline; ranibizumab and natalizumab. With its cell line development center in The Netherlands, and two centers of development and manufacturing in Poland, Polpharma Biologics creates development opportunities for biotechnology specialists. Learn more at www.polpharmabiologics.com. Disclaimer This press release is issued from Polpharma Biologics Group B.V. and is intended to provide worldwide information about our global business in relation to drug development and manufacturing expertise. Although Polpharma Biologics Group B.V. is not a public company as of this date, recipients should understand that this press release contains certain forward-looking statements (as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the approval and commercialization of the medicinal product, market reception, competition, changes in economic conditions and applicable laws, global regulatory developments, contractual risks, and dependencies from third parties. Polpharma Biologics undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release. Moreover, Polpharma Biologics wishes to emphasize that this press release is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as making any representation, warranties, or guarantees, either expressed or implied, regarding the potential approval, market reception, commercialization, or success of the medicinal product or any other product or therapy. References [1] National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Available at: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/vedolizumab/. Last accessed February 2024 [2] Entyvio (vedolizumab) US Prescribing Information. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125476s025s030lbl.pdf. Last accessed February 2024 [3] Entyvio (vedolizumab) SPC. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/entyvio-epar-product-information_en.pdf. Last accessed February 2024 [4] Jairath V, Feagan B G. Lancet. 2019; DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S2468-1253(19)30358-9 [5] GlobalData Epidemiology Forecast to 2031 SOURCE Polpharma Biologics DUBLIN, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Power Analyzer and Power Quality Analyzer: Global Market Forecast & Analysis 2022 - 2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report presents the forecast of the use of Power Analyzers and Power Quality Analyzers. Market analysis and forecasting are complex tasks. Any predictions of the shape and trends of technology and economic movement start from the notion that the germ of what will be important tomorrow is present, although smaller or larger or in a different form, in our environment today. However, taking as a basis for a prediction the assumptions of current, conventional belief create a set of preconceived notions that can lead to serious mistakes. The publisher, instead, looks to the basic driving forces. A power analyzer (PA) is a piece of test equipment that accurately measures the electrical power characteristics of devices that generate, transform, or consume electricity. Power analyzers, also called power meters or watt-meters, provide precise measurements of true power (watts), power factor, harmonics and efficiency in inverters, motor drives, lighting, home appliances, office equipment, power supplies, and industrial machinery. The future market for this particular type of electric power test and measurement equipment depends on a number of factors, including: User equipment demand The continuing trend regarding increasing performance/cost ratio, driving an economics-based expansion Current and future use of other competing technologies, based on economic advantage and technology advancement Possible displacement of these technologies by other solutions Shifts in the types and technologies of products deployed and in their end applications Trends in world economies, regional economies and government policies Key Topics Covered: 1.Executive Summary 1.1 Global Market Overview 1.2 Electrical Industry Overview 2. Power Analyzer Market Forecast, by Type 2.1 Global Overview 2.2 Bench-Top (Large/Heavy) Power Analyzers 2.3 Bench-Top (Portable/Light) Power Analyzers 2.4 Portable (Handheld) Power Analyzers 2.5 Large Panel Rack Power Analyzer 2.6 Panel Power Analyzer (Slim or Compact Panel Mount) 2.7 Panel Power Analyzer (DIN Rail Mount) 3. Power Quality Analyzer Market Forecast, by Type 3.1 Global Overview 3.2 Bench-Top (Portable/Light) Power Quality Analyzers 3.3 Portable (Handheld) Power Quality Analyzers 3.4 Panel Power Quality Analyzers (Slim or Compact Panel Mount) 3.5 Panel Power Quality Analyzers (DIN Rail Mount) 4. Competitive Environment 4.1 Company Profiles 4.2 Competitive Market Share Estimates 4.2.1 Power Analyzer 4.2.2 Power Quality Analyzer 5. Market Research Methodology 6. Definitions - Acronyms, Abbreviations, and General Terms 7. Market Forecast Data Base 7.1 Overview 7.2 Tutorial Companies Mentioned ABB Algodue Elettronica Srl Amperis Products S.L. Amprobe (Danaher Corporation) Arthur Mckay & Co Limited & Co Limited Balfour Beatty Engineering Services Bergelectric Corporation Boulting Group Limited Briggs & Forrester Limited Cache Valley Electric Company (CVE) Candura Instruments Carlo Gavazzi Holding Ag CBES Limited Services Chauvin Arnoux Gmbh (Including Aemc Instruments) China Construction Electric Power Construction Co., Ltd China International Contractors Association (CHINCA) Circutor, Sa Cleveland Electric Cochran, Inc Crown House Technologies (CHt) Cupertino Electric, Inc. Daelim RSS Dewetron Gmbh Dodd Group Dongfang Electric Corporation Limited E-J Electric Installation Company Egan Company Elcontrol Energy Net S.R.L. Electrical Contractors' Association Elspec Ltd EMCOR Group Inc. Encore Electric Extech Instruments (Flir Systems) Facility Solutions Group, Inc. Faith Technologies, Inc. FAPECA (Federation of Asian Pacific Electrical Contractors Association) Federated Electrical Contractors (FEC) FES Limited Five Star Electric Corp Fluke Incorporated (Danaher Corporation) Gaylor Electric, Incorporated Gossen Metrawatt Instruments/Gmc-I Guangdong Electric Power Design Institute Co. Ltd Guarantee Electrical Company Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. Helix Electric, Inc. Henkels & McCoy, Inc. Hioki E.E. Corporation Hunt Electric Corporation IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) - Union IEC (independent Electrical Contractors) Imtech Technical Services Infratek Ag Inglett & Stubbs LLC ISC Constructors, LLC Janitza Electronics Gmbh. KECA (Korean Electrical Contractors Association) Keysight Technologies (Hp / Agilent) Kyoritsu Electrical Instruments Works, Ltd. Lake Erie Electric Lorne Stewart PLC Lumel S.A. M.C. Dean, Inc. Mace Group Ltd Magtrol Sa Metrel D.D. Miller Electric Company MJ Quinn Integrated Services MMR Group, Inc. Motor City Electric Company MYR Group, Inc. National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting National Instruments NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) Newtons4Th Ltd (N4L) NG Bailey Limited North China Power Engineering CO., LTD O'Connell Electric Company, Inc. Parsons Electric LLC PCE Instruments Uk Ltd. Peaktech Pruf- Und Messtechnik Gmbh Phoenix ME Limited Pike Corporation, Inc. Power Design, Inc. Profile of Selected Leading Electrical Contractors ( United States ) ) Prova Instruments Inc. Quanta Services RailWorks Corp./L.K. Comstock Redwood Electric Group, Inc. RENGO - Japan - (Nihon Rodokumiai Sorengokai) - (Nihon Rodokumiai Sorengokai) Rohde & Schwarz (Hameg) Rosendin Electric, Inc. Sachs Electric Company Satec Ltd. Schneider Electric SELECT (Electrical Contractors' Association of Scotland ) ) SES Engineering Services Shandong Electric Power Construction No.2 Company (SEPCO2) Siemens Ag Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil Limited SPIE Limited Sprig Electric Company SSE Contracting Limited Summit Technology, Inc. (Powersight) T Clarke Public Limited Company Tektronix, Inc. Teledye Lecroy Tes Electrical Electronic Corp. The Electric Roundtable The Morse Group, Incorporated The Newtron Group, LLC The State Group, Incorporated Thytronic S.P.A. Total Facility Solutions (TFS) Tri-City Electrical Contractors, Inc. USIS Valhalla Scientific Incorporated VECA Electric and Technologies Vitrek Corporation (Also: Xitron Technologies) Voltcraft Wachter, Incorporated Walker Engineering, Inc. Wayne J. Griffin Electric, Inc. Yokogawa ZES ZIMMER Electronic Systems GmbH Zhejiang Electric Power Construction Co., Ltd. (ZEPC) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/w444w0 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 MOORPARK, Calif., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ReCo, a leading provider of state-of-the-art technology solutions for municipalities, proudly celebrates its two-year anniversary as a member of the 100GROUP family, marking a period of strategic evolution and groundbreaking advancements. Since the acquisition by 100GROUP, CEO Jeff Brodsly has not only continued ReCo's legacy of excellence but has also led the company through a period of significant strategic planning, development of an innovative roadmap, and a fresh perspective on serving the government sector. This period has been emblematic of Brodsly's reputation for recognizing the potential in businesses and products, bringing in his trusted, long-term team to deeply engage with the industry and infuse new life into the product offerings. This approach of comprehensive due diligence and proactive innovation is a testament to 100GROUP's commitment to maintaining excellence and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. Gary Norton, ReCo's Founder and President laid a robust foundation with his pioneering contributions to the industry. While Gary's role has evolved, his legacy continues to inspire the team, and his ongoing involvement remains an important part of ReCo's next phase of growth and technological advancement. 2023 was a landmark year for ReCo with the launch of online payments, a pivotal component of the broader ReCo Anywhere project, a cloud version of the classic ReCo Cashiering program, and significant expansion in its technological capabilities through the addition of new developers and tech specialists. This combination of innovation and strategic growth underscores ReCo's unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive, state-of-the-art solutions while remaining at the cutting edge of technology to meet the evolving needs of its municipal clients. Jeff Brodsly, CEO of 100GROUP, comments on the journey, "The past two years have marked a transformative period for ReCo, characterized by strategic innovation and a commitment to our clients. Our collaborative approach has leveraged the strengths of both ReCo and 100GROUP to achieve new heights in the government sector. With initiatives like ReCo Anywhere and our continued investment in technology, we are excited to keep delivering exceptional value to our clients." This commitment was recently highlighted by Gary Norton and General Manager Sarah McKee's visit to Ohio clients, including stops at Clark County and Pickaway County, emphasizing ReCo's hands-on approach to being genuine partners to their clients, ensuring that the services provided are not just solutions, but a testament to ReCo's dedication to their clients' success. As ReCo embarks on its third year with 100GROUP, it is poised for continued leadership in the industry with the upcoming launch of ReCo Anywhere. With a relentless focus on innovation, client satisfaction, and technological excellence, ReCo is not just anticipating the future; it is actively shaping it. Together, ReCo and 100GROUP are setting new benchmarks in the industry, driven by a shared vision of delivering unparalleled value and service to their clients. The journey ahead promises to be one of transformative growth and enduring success, as they continue to redefine what's possible for municipalities across the nation. About ReCo: For nearly three decades ReCo has been the leader in providing state-of-the-art technology solutions to municipalities across the United States. Our revenue collection software for both in-person and online processes offers municipalities opportunities to improve services and reduce costs in ways that could not have been imagined a few short years ago. Cashiering and bill payments, financial interfaces, image processing, check processing, credit card processing, courts, law enforcement, utilities, city permits, and more are what ReCo clients depend on us for. For more information, please visit www.recoanywhere.com SOURCE 100GROUP It is important to remember our history despite the time that has passed since those events. Ten years ago, the Revolution of Dignity took place on Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kyiv, which claimed the lives of more than a hundred concerned citizens, whose memory was captured in documentaries by Ukrainian filmmakers. ADVERTISIMENT The #ShoTam media, together with the Cinema Squad, have created a selection of five most important films to watch to recall the events of the winter of 2014, thanks to which the Maidan and the whole of Ukraine "survived." These films convey the atmosphere of the events not only through the stories of witnesses and activists, but also help us understand the meaning of the struggle and the importance of freedom in our country. "Winter on Fire" The film chronicles the events of the winter of 2013-2014, demonstrating the "civil rights movement". It was started by students, who were later joined by people from all over Ukraine and turned a peaceful action into a full-fledged revolution. The film won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival and was nominated for two awards: Golden Reel Award and Oscar in 2016. ADVERTISIMENT "Everything is burning" "The film shows the confrontation of the Revolution of Dignity from the epicenter of the conflict and follows how it changes its character from peaceful protest to bloody clashes," the media described the film. The film was recognized as the winner of the DOK Leipzig Film Festival as the best Eastern European documentary in 2014. ADVERTISIMENT "Euromaidan. Rough cut" "From pots on the head to batons and bulletproof vests. From the euphoria of victory to the mourning of the Heavenly Hundred. The revolution as an explosion of awakened dignity, as the euphoria of freedom, as the pain of realizing the price, as the birth of the modern history of Ukraine," reads the description of the film. ADVERTISIMENT "Turning Point: The War for Democracy in Ukraine" This film depicts the events of not only the Revolution of Dignity, but also the annexation of Crimea and the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2014. "During the creation of the film, testimonies of 86 participants of the Revolution of Dignity and participants of the Russian-Ukrainian war were recorded, and more than 600 minutes of film material was shot," the source said. The film won the best film at the EtCultura Film Festival in 2016 and was shortlisted for the 2018 Oscars in the best documentary category. ADVERTISIMENT "Stronger than weapons" This film explains the entire chronicle of the Revolution of Dignity from the attempt to seize the Presidential Administration on December 1, 2013, to the fight for Donetsk airport in the fall of 2014. The film won the National Union of Cinematographers of Ukraine award for Best Documentary in 2014. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Cutting-edge therapy shows meaningful improvements in muscle strength, function and fatigue resistance, offering hope for millions suffering from sarcopenia DIEPENBEEK, Belgium, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rejuvenate Biomed NV ("Rejuvenate Biomed"), a pioneering clinical-stage platform and pipeline company committed to enhancing lifelong health through innovative therapeutics, today announces breakthrough functional outcome results from its Phase 1b trial of lead candidate RJx-01 for the treatment of sarcopenia. Sarcopenia, a condition affecting up to 22% of 65-year-olds and 50% of 80-year-olds, is characterized by the progressive loss of muscle strength and physical performance. This decline not only impacts the quality of life but also elevates the risk of falls, disability, and mortality, particularly among the older population. RJx-01 is a proprietary combination drug that was identified by the Company's in-house drug discovery platform and has shown to have beneficial effects on various preclinical models of sarcopenia[1]. The recent exploratory clinical trial results, which follow earlier confirmation of safety and tolerability and pharmacokinetics[2], highlight the potential of RJx-01 in addressing the unmet need for effective sarcopenia treatments. The key findings of the Phase 1b trial with RJx-01 reveal promising functional outcomes: Improved strength: Participants with disuse-induced sarcopenia treated with RJx-01 exhibited a promising improvement in muscle strength recovery compared to the placebo group. This beneficial effect, assessed through isometric dynamometry, underscores the ability of RJx-01 to promote muscle strength improvement, an outcome that would support the daily activities of sarcopenia patients. Improved muscle function: Treatment with RJx-01 led to an important improvement of leg acceleration, assessed through isokinetic dynamometry. The ability to accelerate the limb rapidly is important for functional movement in daily activities and is pivotal in mitigating fall risks a critical consideration for sarcopenia patients. Improved fatigue resistance: Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed by monitoring muscle parameters during a series of leg exercises. Participants receiving RJx-01 showed a reduced propensity for fatigue indicating that RJx-01 can promote physical activities such as walking, a performance improvement that is important for sarcopenia patients. Dr. Ann Belien, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rejuvenate Biomed, expressed her enthusiasm, stating: "Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey to address age-related diseases, most notably sarcopenia a condition affecting up to 1 in 5 individuals over 65 years. The impact demonstrated by RJx-01 offers great potential to make a substantial difference for individuals with sarcopenia or muscle strength loss due to other underlying factors. We eagerly anticipate advancing our Phase 2 program later this year, aiming to substantiate RJx-01's therapeutic potential in addressing sarcopenia and osteoporosis." Prof. Dr. Jean-Yves Reginster, Chair of Rejuvenate Biomed's Clinical Advisory Board, added: "These compelling data confirm RJx-01's promise to improve physical performance and muscle strength. With aging populations, it is inevitable that the number of people living with long-term health conditions will rise, challenging ones functional abilities and overall physical performance. Thus, it is crucial that companies like Rejuvenate Biomed work towards the goal of treating and even preventing the development of age-related diseases such as sarcopenia." Prof. Dr. Roger Fielding, Clinical Advisory Board member of Rejuvenate Biomed, echoed his resounding endorsement: "The number of people living with muscle-related conditions is increasing, emphasizing the urgent need for viable solutions to improve the age-related decline in muscle performance. The new data announced today by Rejuvenate Biomed regarding RJx-01 are very promising for patients with sarcopenia, as well as for those experiencing a loss of muscle function due to other causes." Rejuvenate Biomed will commence a Phase 2 study evaluating RJx-01's effect on sarcopenia and osteoporosis, as these two diseases often co-exist, so frequently that "osteosarcopenia" has recently been described in medical literature as a distinct syndrome. Additionally, the Company is actively exploring partnership opportunities to investigate RJx-01 in combination with GLP-1 drugs, that are marketed for obesity and diabetes type 2. The positive outcomes from the Phase 1b trial validate the predictive power of Rejuvenate Biomed's proprietary drug discovery platforms CombinAge and CelegAge, which efficiently screen small molecules to identify promising therapeutics targeting age-related pathways. Rejuvenate Biomed intends to make these platforms available to third parties through strategic partnerships or licensing agreements. 1. Tezze C, et al. JCI Insight 2023; 8(15):e168787. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.168787. 2. https://www.rejuvenatebiomed.com/en/news/positive-results-phase-1b-trial-in-sarcopenia. About Rejuvenate Biomed Rejuvenate Biomed is a clinical-stage platform and pipeline company dedicated to redefining the aging process. The Company leverages validated platform technology to develop innovative therapeutics targeting the root causes of age-related diseases. With two distinct drug discovery platforms AI-enabled in silico CombinAge and in vivo CelegAge Rejuvenate Biomed has demonstrated the predictive power of this approach, resulting in a pipeline of five unique combination drugs targeting various age-related diseases, including neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardiovascular, nephrological, and neurodegenerative indications. Headquartered in Belgium, Rejuvenate Biomed is committed to promoting healthy aging. Visit https://www.rejuvenatebiomed.com/en for more information. About the RJx-01-101 study RJx-01-101 is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial that successfully met primary and secondary endpoints, demonstrating positive clinical outcome data. Involving 42 healthy male subjects aged 65 to 75 with disuse-induced sarcopenia, the trial confirmed the safety, tolerability, and bioavailability of RJx-01 after 6 weeks of treatment. The Phase 1b study explored RJx-01's impact on various pharmacodynamic parameters, paving the way for further investigations in sarcopenia and related conditions. Following the trial, participants underwent a personalized rehabilitation program. SOURCE Rejuvenate Biomed Riverside Debussy to be Christened During ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam DENVER, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Riverside Luxury Cruises is proud to announce Alle Pierce will inaugurate the new Riverside Debussy as Godmother. Ms. Pierce will christen the new Riverside Debussy on March 13, during the 2024 American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, where Riverside Luxury Cruises will be exhibiting and showcasing the luxurious river ship. Riverside Debussy is Riverside Luxury Cruises' third ship to enter service and will offer travellers immersive, enriching and fun experiences in captivating cities and towns throughout the Rhine River starting March 23. For more information about Riverside Debussy and Riverside Luxury Cruises, please visit Riverside-Cruises.com/EN. Award-winning Host, Producer and Travel Expert Alle Pierce is named Godmother for Riverside Luxury Cruises' new Riverside Debussy. "Alle's extensive experience and infectious enthusiasm for travel makes her the perfect Godmother for Riverside Debussy," said Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises. "Her mission to empower women to travel and her support of travel advisors is inspiration for the industry, if not for everyone. We cannot wait to for Alle to christen Riverside Debussy and launch Riverside Luxury Cruises' third luxury river ship." Ms. Pierce is an Emmy Award-winning host, producer, travel expert, and founder of Gals Abroad Getaways, where she is rewriting the rules of luxury travel. No more waiting for the 'perfect travel partner,' her bespoke group trips empower independent women to chase their travel dreams one passport stamp at a time. Ms. Pierce's adventures include dazzling the screens at major international sporting events and crafting captivating digital content for top streaming platforms and brands. Her infectious energy has been featured in The New York Times and Forbes and earned her an American Advertising Award. For more information about Alle Pierce, please visit www.AlleAbroad.com. "Being named the Godmother of Riverside Debussy is a profound honour," expressed Ms. Pierce. "Growing up with a mother who is a distinguished luxury travel advisor, river cruising has been an integral part of our shared travel story. It's a mode of travel where my inherited adventurous spirit, inquisitive nature, and fervour for cultural exploration find their truest expression. The allure of river cruising lies in its ability to seamlessly blend adventure, curiosity, and a deep passion for diverse cultures. I am confident that Riverside Debussy will offer travellers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting tapestry of Northwest Europe, a region that holds a special place in my heart." The new Riverside Luxury Cruises is Europe's newest and most luxurious river cruise brand offering all-inclusive vacations along the Rhine, Rhone, Danube, Main, and Moselle rivers. All guests enjoy Riverside's signature intuitive and personalised service from every staff and crew member; butler service in every suite; premium wines and spirits; StarLink broadband Wi-Fi; gourmet cuisine; a welcome bottle of champagne; and unlimited shore excursions to delve further afield into Europe's history, cultures and landmarks. The brand's all-suite Riverside Mozart, Riverside Ravel, and the soon-to-launch Riverside Debussy offers the most spacious accommodations, luxury furnishings, and onboard amenities found on Europe's rivers. Riverside Luxury Cruises is named Forbes' Best European River Cruise For Foodies and Cruise Critic's 2023 Editors' Pick Award Winner for Best Dining in the River Category. For more information and to make a reservation, U.S. and Canadian travellers should contact their travel advisor; visit Riverside-Cruises.com/en; or call 1-833-305-3313. Travel Advisors can register and book their luxury clients through the brand's dedicated partner portal at www.Riverside-Cruises.com/TA. SOURCE Riverside Luxury Cruises If approved, vorasidenib would be the first targeted therapy in IDH-mutant diffuse glioma, a malignant and incurable brain tumor In clinical studies, vorasidenib has demonstrated strong blood-brain barrier penetrance alongside clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in progression-free survival and time-to-next intervention Approval of vorasidenib would mark Servier's sixth approval for a first-in-class treatment option in IDH-mutant cancers BOSTON and SURESNES, France, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Servier, a global leader in oncology focused on delivering meaningful therapeutic progress for the patients it serves, today announced the FDA filing acceptance and priority review for a New Drug Application (NDA) for vorasidenib, as well as the EMA granting accelerated assessment for the vorasidenib Marketing Authorization Application (MAA). This innovative targeted therapy is an oral, selective, highly brain-penetrant dual inhibitor of mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1/2) enzymes for the treatment of IDH-mutant diffuse glioma. If approved, vorasidenib would become a first-in-class targeted therapy for patients with IDH-mutant gliomas and would mark Servier's sixth approval across IDH-mutant cancers. The FDA has assigned a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) action date of August 20, 2024, while the European Commission approval is anticipated in the second half of 2024. "In the realm of glioma treatment, innovation has been stagnant for nearly a quarter-century, posing challenges for patients who, post-surgery, may opt to defer treatment due to concerns around potential toxic side effects. As a drug specifically designed to be highly blood-brain barrier penetrant, vorasidenib has demonstrated clinically meaningful efficacy in patients with IDH1/2 mutant gliomas alongside a consistently manageable safety profile," said Susan Pandya, M.D., Head of Cancer Metabolism Global Development Oncology & Immuno-Oncology, Servier. "This promising outcome brings hope to patients grappling with IDH-mutant diffuse gliomas, offering a potential breakthrough for those eagerly awaiting a new therapeutic option." Adult-type diffuse gliomas represent approximately 81% of primary malignant brain tumors. Of those, approximately 20% harbor an IDH mutation, including 100% of grade 2 and grade 3 adult-type diffuse gliomas, as well as a much smaller portion of the grade 4 tumors.1,2 Testing for IDH mutations is essential for the accurate diagnosis of adult-type diffuse gliomas and can offer more information on the pathogenesis and prognosis of the disease.3 The 2021 WHO Classification includes disease defining histologic and molecular features, including IDH mutation status, to diagnose adult-type diffuse gliomas.4 Additionally, the National Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) recommend IDH mutation testing in all patients with glioma, noting IDH mutation status impacts diagnosis, prognosis and treatment recommendations.5 "As a dedicated pioneer in the field of mutant IDH inhibition, Servier has consistently spearheaded the development of cutting-edge treatment options for various cancer types characterized by IDH mutations. The compelling efficacy results observed with vorasidenib in the INDIGO study underscore its full potential to emerge as the benchmark treatment for patients grappling with IDH-mutant diffuse glioma harboring IDH1/2 mutations," stated Claude Bertrand, Executive Vice-President of Research & Development and Chief Scientific Officer at Servier. "The submission of global regulatory filings for vorasidenib serve as validation of Servier's global oncology commitment while marking a possibly significant milestone for patients who have endured more than two decades without access to new therapeutic solutions." The submissions are based on results from the pivotal Phase 3 INDIGO clinical trial, which met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) per blinded independent review committee (BIRC) and key secondary endpoint of time to next intervention (TTNI) at the prespecified second interim analysis. The primary endpoint, PFS per BIRC, was statistically significant and clinically meaningful in favor of the vorasidenib arm (Hazard Ratio [HR], 0.39; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.27 to 0.56; 1-sided P=0.000000067), median PFS for vorasidenib and placebo was 27.7 and 11.1 months, respectively. TTNI was also statistically significant (HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.15 to 0.43; 1-sided P=0.000000019). Median TTNI was not reached for vorasidenib and was 17.8 months for placebo. Vorasidenib was also shown to reduce the tumor volume by a mean of 2.5% (TGR of 2.5%; 95% CI: -4.7% to -0.2%) every 6 months, while tumor volume increased by a mean of 13.9% (TGR of 13.9%; 95% CI: 11.1% to 16.8%) every 6 months for patients randomized to the placebo arm, as measured by a blinded independent radiology committee. The INDIGO study showed that vorasidenib was well-tolerated, and its safety profile was consistent with results from the Phase 1 studies. The results of INDIGO were presented at the 2023 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and simultaneously published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The results of additional secondary endpoints, including vorasidenib's impact on tumor growth rate (TGR) of IDH-mutant gliomas, were presented at the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) among other presentations including results on health-related quality of life, seizure control, neurocognition, and preliminary molecular translational analyses. Priority Review is granted to FDA applications for medicines that, if approved, would provide significant improvements in the effectiveness or safety of the treatment, diagnosis or prevention of serious conditions.6 Vorasidenib was granted Fast Track Designation by the FDA in February 2023 and Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the FDA in August 2023. The EMA's accelerated assessment is granted if the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use decides the new medicine is expected to be of major public health interest, particularly from the viewpoint of therapeutic innovation.7 Servier has also submitted an application for project Orbis member countries, including Brazil, Canada, Australia, Israel and Switzerland. In addition, Servier plans to submit a Marketing Application in the United Kingdom if a positive CHMP opinion is received. More information about Project Orbis can be found on the FDA website. In its ongoing commitment to addressing patient's needs, Servier recognizes that patients and their physicians may believe that a patient with a serious or immediately life-threatening disease could benefit from Servier's investigational drugs. An Expanded Access Program, also known as "compassionate use," is a potential pathway for a patient with an immediately life-threatening condition or serious disease or condition to gain access to an investigational medical product for treatment outside of clinical trials. More information about Servier's expanded access program can be found at clinicaltrials.gov. About the INDIGO Phase 3 Trial (NCT04164901) INDIGO was a registration-enabling Phase 3 global, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study of vorasidenib in patients with residual or recurrent grade 2 glioma with an isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/2 (IDH1/2) mutation who have undergone surgery as their only treatment. Results were published in The New England Journal of Medicine. About Glioma8 Adult-type diffuse gliomas represent approximately 81% of primary malignant brain tumors. Of those, approximately 20% harbor an IDH mutation, including 100% of grade 2 and grade 3 adult-type diffuse gliomas, as well as a much smaller portion of the grade 4 tumors.1,2 Establishing the IDH mutation status of these tumors is essential to both diagnosis and prognosis, per the 2021 WHO classification of CNS tumors and the NCCN treatment guidelines, respectively. As of 2021, adult-type diffuse gliomas are sub-divided into only three categories: Astrocytoma, IDH-mutant (CNS WHO grades 2-4) Oligodendroglioma, IDH-mutant and 1p19q-codeleted (CNS WHO grades 2-3) Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype (CNS WHO grade 4) About Servier in Oncology Servier is a global leader in oncology focused on delivering meaningful therapeutic progress for the patients it serves. Governed by a non-profit foundation, Servier approaches innovation with a long-term vision, free of influence from investors and outside pressure to chase short-term monetary targets. As a leader in oncology, Servier has significantly accelerated its investment in difficult and hard-to-treat cancers, with more than 50% of its research and development dedicated to delivering significant advances in areas of high unmet need throughout oncology with the potential to change the lives of the patients it serves. Within these areas, Servier is the leader in mutant IDH inhibition, with the first ever mutant IDH1 inhibitor approved in the U.S. and the European Union, and the company continues to drive the science behind targeted mutant IDH inhibition. Servier's commitment to therapeutic progress guides its collaboration strategy. While many companies across the industry are scaling back investments, Servier is actively building alliances, completing acquisitions, conducting licensing deals and entering new partnerships that can help to accelerate access to therapies for patients in need. With the company's commercial expertise, global reach, scientific expertise and commitment to clinical excellence, Servier is dedicated to bringing the promise of tomorrow to the patients it serves. Press Contacts Servier Group (Global) [email protected] Servier Pharmaceuticals (U.S.) Nathan Mellor [email protected] Disclosures This release contains general information about the Servier Group and its entities (hereinafter "Servier and its Affiliates") and is intended for informational purposes only. The information is thought to be reliable; however, Servier and its Affiliates make no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein or otherwise provided and accept no responsibility or liability, in contract, in tort, in negligence, or otherwise, should the information be found to be inaccurate or incomplete in any respect. Servier and its Affiliates are not acting as an advisor to the recipient of this information, and the ultimate decision to proceed with any transaction rests solely with the recipient of this information. Therefore, prior to entering into any proposed transaction, the recipient of this information should determine, without reliance upon Servier or its Affiliates, the economic risks and merits, as well as the legal, tax, and accounting characterizations and consequences, of the transaction and that it is able to assume these risks. This statement also contains forward-looking statements that are subject to varying levels of uncertainty and risk. Investigational new drugs and indications are subject to further scientific and medical review and regulatory approval. They are not approved for use by the FDA. Any reliance placed on this document is done entirely at the risk of the person placing such reliance. The information contained in this document is neither an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to enter into a transaction. The content of this document is a summary only, is not complete, and does not include all material information about Servier and its Affiliates, including potential conflicts of interest. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, Servier and its Affiliates disclaim all representations, warranties, conditions and guarantees, whether express, implied, statutory or of other kind, nor does it accept any duty to any person, in connection with this document. Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, Servier and its Affiliates do not warrant or represent that the information or opinions contained in this document is accurate or complete. To the maximum extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, Servier and its Affiliates shall not be liable for any loss, damage or expense whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, howsoever arising, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability or otherwise, for direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive or special damages arising out of or in connection with this document, including (without limitation) any course of action taken on the basis of the same. The estimates, strategies, and views expressed in this document are based upon past or current data and information and are subject to change without notice. 1 Louis, D. et. al (2021). The 2021 WHO Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System: a summary, Neuro-Oncology, 23(8): 12311251. https://doi.org/10.1093/neuonc/noab106. Accessed February 2024. 2 Ostrom, Q. T., Price, M., Neff, C., Cioffi, G., Waite, K. A., Kruchko, C., & Barnholtz-Sloan, J. S. (2022). CBTRUS Statistical Report: Primary Brain and Other Central Nervous System Tumors Diagnosed in the United States in 2015-2019. Neuro-oncology, 24(Suppl 5), v1v95. https://doi.org/10.1093/neuonc/noac202. Accessed February 2024. 3 Isocitrate Dehydrogenase. Science Direct. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/isocitrate-dehydrogenase. Accessed February 2024. 4 Antonelli M, Poliani PL. Adult type diffuse gliomas in the new 2021 WHO Classification. Pathologica. 2022 Dec;114(6):397-409. doi: 10.32074/1591-951X-823. PMID: 36534419; PMCID: PMC9763975. 5 NCCN. Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for Brain Cancer Gliomas 2021. National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Inc. 2023. Accessed February 2024. https://www.nccn.org/patients/guidelines/content/PDF/brain-gliomas-patient.pdf 6 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Fast Track, Breakthrough Therapy, Accelerated Approval, Priority Review. https://www.fda.gov/patients/fast-track-breakthrough-therapy-accelerated-approval-priority-review/priority-review. Accessed February 2024. 7 European Medicines Agency (EMA). Accelerated assessment. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/marketing-authorisation/accelerated-assessment. Accessed February 2024. 8 Neuro Oncology. The 2021 WHO Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System: a summary. https://academic.oup.com/neuro-oncology/article/23/8/1231/6311214. Accessed February 2024. SOURCE Servier Pharmaceuticals DUBLIN, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Generation of Electricity in South Africa 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. South Africa's electricity crisis intensified in 2023 due to extensive breakdowns at the debt-laden Eskom's aging power stations. This comes at a time when the renewable energy independent power procurement programme has slowed considerably. Recent regulatory changes have unlocked new avenues of private and municipal investment in electricity generation. Eskom's unbundling into separate generation, transmission, and distribution companies, was targeted to be complete by the middle of 2024. Eskom planned to reduce loadshedding in 2024 with the return of large amounts of capacity to operation after long periods of maintenance. The electricity grid is at capacity with limited opportunity to receive new supply. Key Opportunities Electricity trading providing remote markets for independent power producers. Private supply of distributed electricity generation capacity for large companies. Solar panel prices have dropped considerably, making embedded solutions more affordable. Challenges Continued theft and corruption at Eskom. Eskom's continued poor financial and operational performance. Installing sufficient renewable energy and gas generation supply to reduce dependence on coal. The national grid is at capacity. Trends Eskom's poor financial and operational performance continues. Eskom's municipal debt continues to be very high. Loadshedding continues to escalate. Regulatory moves to separate Eskom into three companies and to introduce competition in electricity generation gained pace in 2023. Renewable energy companies have taken advantage of new commercial and industrial self-generation projects. Small-scale embedded solar generation, predominantly residential, rapidly increased in 2023. The contribution of coal-sourced electricity to total generation has been declining. The introduction of new utility-scale independent renewable energy power supply to Eskom is being constrained by the lack of capacity on the national grid. Outlook The electricity crisis has caused significant losses to the economy. Private renewable energy generation companies face challenges as the grid is at full capacity. The outlook for the electricity generation industry is poor. Government anticipates the supply deficit to last until 2027. There could be some relief from the removal of regulatory hurdles to private sector participation and direct municipal procurement of electricity. Embedded rooftop solar generation and self-generation investment continue to grow. The unbundling of Eskom will enable the private sector to supply utility-scale electricity. Treasury has implemented a plan to relieve Eskom debt, and Eskom has implemented a plan to tackle municipal debt. Report Coverage This report on the generation of electricity in South Africa provides comprehensive information on Eskom and independent power producers, energy sources including renewables, and changes to the energy mix, the new draft Integrated Resource Plan, the Eskom crisis, smallscale generation, notable players and regulatory developments. It also covers influencing factors such as input costs, and the changing competitive landscape. There are profiles of 31 companies including Eskom, the Avon and Dedisa peaking power plants, emergency energy provider Karpowership and renewable companies such as Mulilo Energy, EDF, ACWA Power, Oya Energy, African Rainbow and Energy Projects, Sola Group, Globaleq, Enel Green Powe, Scatec, Cennergi, Seriti Green and Pele Green Energy. Key Topics Covered: 1. INTRODUCTION 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 2.1. Industry Value Chain 2.2. Geographic Position 2.3. Size of the Industry 3. LOCAL 3.1. State of the Industry 3.2. Key Trends 3.3. Key Issues 3.4. Notable Players 3.5. Trade 3.6. Corporate Actions 3.7. Regulations 3.8. Enterprise Development and Social Development 4. AFRICA 5. INTERNATIONAL 6. INFLUENCING FACTORS 6.1. Unforeseen Events 6.2. Economic Environment 6.3. Labour 6.4. Environmental Issues 6.5. Technology, R&D, Innovation 6.6. Government Support 6.7. Input Costs 7. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT 7.1. Competition 7.2. Ownership Structure of the Industry 7.3. Barriers to Entry 8. INDUSTRY SUMMARY 9. OUTLOOK 10. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS COMPANY PROFILES Acciona Energy South Africa (Pty) Ltd ACWA Power Solafrica Bokpoort CSP Power Plant (RF) (Pty) Ltd African Rainbow Energy and Power (Pty) Ltd Associated Energy Services (Pty) Ltd Avon Peaking Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd BioTherm Energy (Pty) Ltd Building Energy Uganda Ltd Cennergi (Pty) Ltd Cennergi Services (Pty) Ltd Consolidated Building Materials (Pty) Ltd Coria (PKF) Investments 28 (RF) (Pty) Ltd Coxabengoa Services South Africa (Pty) Ltd Dedisa Peaking Power (RF) (Pty) Ltd EDF Renewables (Pty) Ltd Ejuva One Solar Energy (Pty) Ltd Ejuva Two Solar Energy (Pty) Ltd Enel Green Power RSA (Pty) Ltd Enel Green Power Zambia Ltd Engie Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (Pty) Ltd Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd Globeleq South Africa Management Services (Pty) Ltd Hopefield Wind Farm Local Community Company NPC Karpowership SA (Pty) Ltd Karpowership SA Coega (RF) (Pty) Ltd Karpowership SA Fuel Services Company (Pty) Ltd Karpowership SA Operation and Maintenance Company (Pty) Ltd Karpowership SA Richards Bay (RF) (Pty) Ltd Karpowership SA Saldanha (RF) (Pty) Ltd Knowledge Pele (Pty) Ltd Lekela Power Intermediate Holdings (Pty) Ltd Mainstream South Africa Renewable Power (Pty) Ltd Mulilo Energy Holdings (Pty) Ltd National Energy Regulator of South Africa National Transmission Company South Africa SOC Ltd Pele Energy Group (RF) (Pty) Ltd Pele Natural Energy (RF) (Pty) Ltd Rainmaker Energy Holdings UK Ltd RCSA Energy (Pty) Ltd Reatile Group (Pty) Ltd Reatile Industrial (Pty) Ltd Reatile Technologies (Pty) Ltd Reatile Treasury (RF) (Pty) Ltd Red Rocket South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Pty) Ltd Rubis Asphalt South Africa (Pty) Ltd Scatec Africa (Pty) Ltd SEF SOC Ltd Seriti Green Developments South Africa (Pty) Ltd Sola Group (Pty) Ltd Solar Capital (Pty) Ltd Tuwin 411 Logistics (Pty) Ltd Tuwin Energy Solutions (Pty) Ltd For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qibvza 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 SOURCE Research and Markets CHICAGO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- You've probably seen recent news stories about Americans being the victims of serious crimes on a couple of Caribbean islands. Currently the U.S. Department of State has travel warnings out for two prime locations for spring break revelers: The Bahamas (level 2) and Jamaica (level 3). For a full list of travel advisories worldwide visit their website. What does this mean if you've already booked your tickets to one of these destinations? You likely will not be able to get a refund for your airfare or resort just because of the advisories. So, what can you do? Joe Reise, Motivation Excellence Director, Travel Purchasing, Planning and Supplier Relations, shares several tips to travel safely no matter the location. "When traveling alone without the assistance of a professional travel staff like we provide for our incentive travel groups, arming yourself and people back home with important information is key," Reise says. "Share your itinerary, flight numbers, hotel address and phone number, with someone you trust who is not traveling with you." Planning Stage Reise has a few other recommendations for travelers as they're planning their journey. Buy travel insurance. We recommend Travelex. This will give you better refund options if you cancel your trip for whatever reason. Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This is a free service that alerts the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate of your travel plans. In return, it gives them the ability to contact you in case of emergency. Save the Department of State overseas contact number in case of trouble: 202.501.4444. They can assist in getting you to the proper resources for help. Leading Up to Travel As you get closer to your departure date, you can do some research to help ensure a smoother transition from everyday life to vacation life. Reise says it's not very time-consuming and will really help if you run into unexpected situations. Use Google maps to get familiar with the area around where you are staying. Look for the nearest police station and medical facility. Are there any landmarks near your hotel that will help you navigate back there if you get lost? Save the contact information for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Officers are available 24/7 for emergency assistance. Know the reputable taxi and rideshare companies for your location. Tripadvisor, Fodors, and other travel websites often have location-specific articles you can search for online. Enjoying Vacation Time There's nothing quite like that first day of vacation to put you in a relaxed state. Reise says relaxing is great, but for maximum quality time, take some simple precautions. Watch what you drink. Know if the local water is OK. NEVER leave your drink unattended. Don't overdrink alcohol. Pay attention as you travel from your resort into town. Look for those landmarks you spotted on Google maps. Travel in pairs, or more, when you can. Only take reputable transportation. Have your resort name and address written down on a card when you leave the property. Memorize or write down key phrases in the local language like: I'm lost. Please help me. Do you speak English? I need a doctor. Designate a meeting spot if people get separated. Whether you're heading out on spring break soon, or looking to travel later in the year, proper planning before you go and simple precautions on-site will make your adventure safer to take and easier to enjoy. Happy travels! Motivation Excellence, Inc is an incentive company dedicated to helping clients Inspire Extraordinary Performance. They do this through personalized rewards, aspirational group travel, performance tracking and wow-worthy meetings and events. Headquartered outside of Chicago, they have another full office in Traverse City, Michigan and remote offices across the country. Contact: Sky Z. Capriolo [email protected] 847 275-3931 SOURCE Motivation Excellence, Inc. Consumers should visit www.stemproductrecall.com to determine whether they have the affected product RACINE, Wis., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- STEM is issuing a voluntary recovery for the STEM Kills Wasps Hornets Yellow Jackets Aerosol (10oz and 12oz) product in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. During a quality inspection, STEM identified an issue with the STEM Kills Wasps Hornets Yellow Jackets Aerosol cap. A manufacturing defect can allow the cap to come off the top of the can while handling the product. There are no other known quality issues with this product. Consumers can visit http://www.stemproductrecall.com/ for more information on the affected product. STEM takes seriously its responsibility of providing products that consumers can use with confidence. Consumers can visit the brand's dedicated microsite at http://www.stemproductrecall.com/ and submit their Product UPC & Lot Code to determine whether they have the affected product. Through this website, consumers can quickly and easily submit a claim for a $10.00 refund per product. Consumers are advised that if they have a product with a detached cap, they should not try to reaffix it. Instead, they should visit the dedicated microsite to contact the company. Please note that this applies only to STEM Kills Wasps Hornets Yellow Jackets Aerosol (10oz and 12oz), and not to any other STEM product. Additionally, the brand has asked distributors and retailers to identify, isolate, and stop all sales and deliveries of the affected products. STEM's line of bug killers and repellents are inspired by mother nature to help protect people against pests. See more STEM product details by visiting www.STEMForBugs.com. Media contact: [email protected] SOURCE SC Johnson Funding will allow the team to explore a "truly unorthodox" idea related to memory formation KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) has announced the awardees of their second cycle of Collaborative Pairs Pilot Project Awards, part of the CZI Neurodegeneration Challenge Network (NDCN). Scientific Director Kausik Si, Ph.D., from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research will receive an award for the project titled, "Tuning memory by altering amyloids," which will be conducted alongside Investigator Lukasz Joachimiak, Ph.D., from the University of Texas Southwestern. "Can functional amyloids known to aid in memory formation be fine-tuned to enhance the duration of long-term memories?" Post this Stowers Institute Scientific Director, Kausik Si, Ph.D., discusses his approach to science and research related to memory formation. The Collaborative Pairs Pilot Project Awards were launched in 2018 to investigate neurodegenerative disease biology by aligning two scientists with diverse expertise. Thirty teams were chosen for the first cycle with more than half of these 18-month pilot projects receiving four-year acceleration phase funding, confirming that novel, bold, out-of-the-box based research is not only possible but can lead to transformative science. Following the success of the first cycle, the NDCN expanded the research scope beyond neurodegenerative disease, seeking proposals covering broader neuroscience biology. While extensive research has focused on pathologic amyloids behind devastating diseases like Alzheimer's, Si and Joachimiak are tackling a fundamentally different question: Can functional amyloids known to aid in memory formation be fine-tuned to enhance the acquisition and duration of long-term memories? "This funding will allow us to explore a truly unorthodox idea-is it possible to expedite amyloid formation or increase the stability of amyloid to either reduce the threshold of memory formation or to make a memory more stable," Si said. "Since this is an unorthodox idea, it is important to use a multifaceted approach. The collaboration between labs not only brings complementary experimental expertise, but also diverse ways of thinking about the problem," he explained. Neurodegeneration and amyloid have been virtually synonymous for over a century. For Si, whose research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying memory, the discovery that certain amyloids are not only beneficial and functional but are also necessary for maintaining long-term memories was surprising. This radically challenged previous assumptions of amyloids as pathologic and required rethinking on how and why they form. A certain class of protein common across species can form amyloid that aids in long-term memory. The amyloid form of this protein converts a memory from transient to persistent and in fruit flies, research from the Si Lab published in Science in 2020 resolved the structure of the first example of a memory boosting amyloid called Orb2. Technological advances are now enabling scientists to manipulate the amyloid protein assembly process. The Joachimiak Lab, with expertise in protein engineering, and the Si Lab are joining forces to rationally design and test Orb2 variants as memory conduits. The team hypothesizes that enhancing the formation and stability of Orb2 will make memory formation easier and extend its duration, potentially uncovering fundamental insights into how amyloids can be beneficial. "The award from CZI to Kausik and his collaborator is a nod to the Stowers Institute's focus on spurring discovery and contributing scientific insight into some of the most difficult problems in the life sciences," said Stowers Institute President and Chief Scientific Officer Alejandro Sanchez Alvarado, Ph.D. About the Stowers Institute for Medical Research Founded in 1994 through the generosity of Jim Stowers, founder of American Century Investments, and his wife, Virginia, the Stowers Institute for Medical Research is a non-profit, biomedical research organization with a focus on foundational research. Its mission is to expand our understanding of the secrets of life and improve life's quality through innovative approaches to the causes, treatment, and prevention of diseases. The Institute consists of 20 independent research programs. Of the approximately 500 members, over 370 are scientific staff that include principal investigators, technology center directors, postdoctoral scientists, graduate students, and technical support staff. Learn more about the Institute at www.stowers.org and about its graduate program at www.stowers.org/gradschool. Media Contact: Joe Chiodo, Head of Media Relations 724.462.8529 [email protected] About the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative was founded in 2015 to help solve some of society's toughest challenges from eradicating disease and improving education to addressing the needs of our local communities. Our mission is to build a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. For more information, please visit chanzuckerberg.com. SOURCE Stowers Institute for Medical Research PISCATAWAY, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TechDemocracy: The leading cybersecurity services provider for enterprises, proudly announces the launch of its cutting-edge Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) in Hyderabad, India, to provide managed cybersecurity services offering. It highlights the company's commitment to innovation by introducing new portfolios and services to augment its already robust cybersecurity offerings. Mr. Sri Patibandla, Dr. Sriram Birudavolu, and Mr. Sushil Madhukar at the launch of TechDemocracy's CSOC in Hyderabad, India This is poised to serve as a beacon for TechDemocracy's state-of-the-art Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) services, with a focus on providing comprehensive solutions to combat evolving cybersecurity threats. TechDemocracy is committed to leveraging advanced technologies and industry-leading expertise to redefine cybersecurity. Mr. Sri Patibandla, CEO of TechDemocracy, highlighted the importance of this expansion, stating, "The inauguration of our expanded CSOC reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. We are also amplifying our capability to support organizations worldwide in combating cyber threats." "TechDemocracy's expanded CSOC services will play a pivotal role in enhancing cyber-security protection for organizations in the Indian Sub-continent and other global regions" said Dr. Sriram Birudavolu, CEO of DSCI, Telangana, India. TechDemocracy stands out among cyber security services providers, by prioritizing continuous innovation, bespoke strategies tailored to each client's requirements, and a steadfast dedication to fostering long-term cybersecurity resilience. Mr. Sushil Madhukar, Chief Principal of TechDemocracy, highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and business expansion. "This strategic expansion aligns with our broader business expansion goals and reinforces our position as an industry leader. It will open new avenues for companies that cannot build their own SOC to monitor threat detection, thereby fortifying organizational cybersecurity postures effectively." About TechDemocracy: TechDemocracy is a solution-agnostic, security-focused firm committed to delivering tailored identity and other cyber security services to enterprises globally. With over two decades of hands-on experience, TechDemocracy is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions. Operating with a global presence in the US, India, Canada, and the Philippines, TechDemocracy specializes in fully managing identity and cybersecurity solutions that integrate and operate the entire solution under one umbrella. For more information about TechDemocracy and its innovative cybersecurity solutions, visit https://techdemocracy.com/ For media inquiries, please contact: Phone: +1 732 404 8350 Email: [email protected] Addresses: US: 1 Corporate Place South, Suite 110, Piscataway, NJ 08854 Canada: #846, 8th Floor Mississauga Toronto Airport Corporate Center 2425 Matheson Blvd East Mississauga, ON L4W 5K4 Canada India: No 83/1, The Skyview 20, Raidurgam, Hyderabad 500081 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344731/TechDemocracy_CSOC.jpg SOURCE TechDemocracy Maryland Technology Development Corporation continues to be a driving force for Maryland's economic empowerment activities COLUMBIA, Md., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TEDCO, Maryland's economic engine for technology companies, announced the findings of an independent economic impact study detailing the contributions of TEDCO's six core programs to the state of Maryland. TEDCO continues to be a driving force for Maryland's economic empowerment activities Post this Conducted by the University of Baltimores Jacob France Institute, the study found that TEDCO continues to be a significant economic driving force in Maryland creating nearly $2.7 billion in statewide economic activity as of 2023. Conducted by the University of Baltimore's Jacob France Institute, the study found that TEDCO continues to be a significant economic driving force in Maryland creating nearly $2.7 billion in statewide economic activity as of 2023. TEDCO has invested in or supported the growth of a portfolio of 442 of Maryland's leading technology companies, more than doubling the number of companies identified in the first TEDCO impact study in 2008. "The most recent study reinforces TEDCO's impact on the Maryland innovation ecosystem," said Troy LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO CEO. "As one of the top five Small State Business Credit Initiative investors in the country, according to the U.S Department of the Treasury, we are pleased to say that our efforts have supported significant returns in Maryland, where portfolio companies have grown and our ecosystem continues transforming, becoming more sustainable and diverse. Seeing these changes really solidifies the importance of creating a connected suite of resources, programs and opportunities for entrepreneurial success." The study shows TEDCO's significant economic and fiscal returns to Maryland's ecosystem. In 2021, the direct job creation impact of 442 portfolio companies supported by TEDCO's six core research and investment vehicles was 10,433 and increased by 16% to 12,082 in 2023. Similarly, these companies have also produced a sizable increase in their economic impact, from $2.3 billion in 2021 to $2.7 billion in 2023. Additionally, the study reports the generation of an estimated $140.3 million in state and local government revenues, including more than $80 million in estimated State of Maryland revenues, an amount that exceeds TEDCO's FY2023 appropriation of $50.5 million as well as earning $1.1 billion in labor income. See the full study here. "TEDCO's contribution to Maryland's growth and development can most easily be seen through the growth of our portfolio companies," said TEDCO Board of Directors chair, Omar Muhammad. "However, these numbers allow us to understand, in more detail, our impact on Maryland's technology and life science industries; and personally, I'm excited for the continued growth and impact seen throughout the state's ecosystem." Programs under the TEDCO umbrella include numerous investment opportunities the Venture Funds, the Seed Investment Funds, the Social Impact Funds, the Rural Pre-Seed Funds, and allocated funding from the U.S. Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative as well as funding opportunities from the Maryland Innovation Initiative Fund and the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund. Additionally, TEDCO offers various programs and resources intentionally designed to support the growth and development of Maryland's ecosystem; such programs and resources include the Institute for Women Entrepreneur Excellence, DefTech, Prelude Pitch and more. Watch TEDCO's 25th Anniversary video highlighting historical achievements and success stories here. About TEDCO TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com. Media Contact Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, [email protected] SOURCE TEDCO PHOENIX, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TerraCap Management, LLC, a privately held investment firm with its headquarters in Naples, FL, announced today the sale of Koll Cotton Center, a 225,403 square foot, seven-building light industrial business park located in Phoenix, AZ. "Koll Cotton Center is a high-quality asset that is located in a very strong submarket of Phoenix, AZ. Demand for this product type and location exceeded our expectations, which enabled our team to execute on our business plan well ahead of the projected schedule. We wish the new ownership luck with this property and thank CBRE for their efforts on the leasing and management," said Chris Thompson, Director of Asset Management at TerraCap Management. TerraCap acquired Koll Cotton Center in March 2021 and began working on transforming the property. TerraCap invested in new roofs, updated landscaping, modernized canopies, and refurbished the parking lot. These upgrades allowed the team to complete roughly 160,000 square feet of leasing during TerraCap's ownership. "We are pleased with the positive outcome of this investment," said Steve Good, National Director of Acquisitions for TerraCap. "Despite the volatility in the current market, Koll Cotton Center performed well throughout our hold period. We will continue investing in growth markets like Phoenix, as we have since our inception. We are grateful to our team members and industry partners for their support and hard work during our ownership period," said Good. About TerraCap Management, LLC TerraCap Management, LLC considers thematic factors such as business formation, employment growth and population growth on a market-by-market basis, as most metros and submarkets have unique economic-based industries and therefore move through their economic cycles differently. TerraCap makes moderate strategic overweighting or underweighting to markets, depending on the specific economic drivers influencing supply and demand. The Investment Manager has been in operation since 2008 with its headquarters located in Naples, FL. The firm also has offices in Tampa, FL, Atlanta, GA, and Denver, CO. As operators, TerraCap believes it can make decisions more efficiently while leveraging expertise from property to property. The firm has over eleven million square feet of commercial assets within its portfolio, with approximately $2.5 billion of assets under management. More information can be found at terracapmgmt.com. For More Information, Contact: Matthew Hart 239.494.8922 TerraCap Management LLC SOURCE TerraCap Management Researchers have discovered an object that is probably the brightest known in the Universe. It is a quasar that has a black hole in its heart and absorbs the equivalent of one Sun every day. ADVERTISIMENT The discovery was reported by a team of astronomers from the Australian National University (ANU) in a study published in the journal Nature Astronomy. Scientists believe that no one will ever find something brighter. For the first time, this extremely bright quasar was spotted using a telescope at the Siding Spring Observatory. "Quasars are bright objects that are powered by the accretion of black holes," said Christian Wolf, associate professor of astronomy at ANU. During the study, the astronomers studied the sky looking for bright objects and then used a 2.3-meter telescope to find out which ones were black holes. After that, a detailed study of the detected quasars was carried out using the more powerful Very Large Telescope (VLT) of the European Southern Observatory in Chile. According to the researchers, the light from the quasar took more than 12 billion years to reach the Earth. However, the black hole itself, as Wolf explained, is now located at a distance of more than 20 billion light years from us. This happened because the Universe is in a state of constant expansion. ADVERTISIMENT Observations of scientists suggest that the quasar record holder shines 500 trillion times brighter than our Sun, and the black hole is about 17 billion times the mass of our star. The scientist noted that the assumption of the existence of black holes the mass of which is 20-30 billion times greater than our Sun has existed before, but such black holes should no longer be as hungry as the one seen by the scientists. In fact, such holes would be almost invisible because they attract less matter, and thus "emit less heat and light." Wolf claims that it is unlikely that scientists will ever find a brighter object and break the record. At the same time, he recalls that in 2022 he already made such an assumption when he and his colleagues discovered an extremely bright black hole. However, the next discovery was even more exciting. ADVERTISIMENT "Just a couple of months after this story, we came across this new object, which is only now being published (because - Ed.) all the analysis is complete," Wolf said. Now the scientist is more than confident in his words about the record as he and his team have analyzed in detail all the data covering 80% of the sky. The rest is obscured by the Milky Way. "The dust clouds of the Milky Way absorb the light from everything behind, so you only see the foreground. About 20% of the sky is so dark that we can't study it with current data and methods," Wolf said. He acknowledges that although "you can never say never," no one will find something more powerful. Wolf said that the accretion disk of a black hole is similar to the center of a magnetic storm 7 light-years wide, where the temperature reaches more than 10,000C and lightning flashes everywhere. ADVERTISIMENT Subscribe to OBOZ.UA on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. From February 26th to March 1st , Havana will once again become the world's epicenter of premium tobacco The anniversary of Corporacion Habanos, S.A. and the Quai D'Orsay and Trinidad brands will be the main protagonists of the 24th Habano Festival HAVANA, Cuba, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Havana is decked out to welcome experts and premium tobacco enthusiasts, and especially, all Habano lovers from around the world, at the 24th Habano Festival, to be held from February 26th to March 1st, 2024. This year, the Festival not only honors the rich heritage and tradition of Cuban tobacco with special celebrations for the anniversaries of renowned brands such as Quai D'Orsay and Trinidad, but will also look back on 30 years of success for Corporacion Habanos, S.A. XXIII Festival del Habano // Habanos, S.A. The Festival will kick off with the opening of the Trade Fair, a key meeting point for industry professionals, manufacturers of premium products and artisans, which this year welcomes 85 companies from 11 countries. That same night, the Club Habana will be the venue for the Welcome Evening, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Corporacion Habanos, S.A. The Quai D'Orsay brand will be the star of the Mid-week Evening at the Cubanacan Protocol Lounge in El Laguito. During the event, attendees will participate in a tribute to the brand's 50th anniversary and will personally discover this "Special" vitola, in its world premiere presentation, in honor of this commemoration. As a final touch to this edition of the Festival, the Gala Evening will take place in Hall C of the Pabexpo Fairgrounds. This will mark the beginning of the "Trinidad Year" during which its 55th anniversary will be celebrated, and some of the most important launches for the brand will be enjoyed. On this last night, as on previous occasions, awards will be presented to the winners of the final of the Habanos World Challenge contest as well as to the winners of the long-awaited Habanos Awards, a worldwide recognition to those who in 2023 supported Habanos the most in terms of communication, business, and production. The final highlight will be the traditional Humidor Auction, which this year will feature novelties for attendees, and whose proceeds will go, as usual, to support the Cuban Public Health System. A FULL PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES The traditional visits to plantations will take place in the zone of Vuelta Abajo*, in the Pinar del Rio*, recognized worldwide as the best land to grow tobacco. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to visit the Habanos factories of La Corona, Partagas, H. Upmann and Carlos Balino, where they will be able to learn first-hand about the "Totally Handmade" Habano-making process and take part in a Habano-rolling master class in which they will be able to make their own Habano. The International Seminar will feature presentations such as "Two Cities United by Habanos," focusing on the Quai D'Orsay brand, and the panel "Trinidad: Past, Present and Future" which will delve into one of Habanos' most prestigious brands. Besides, exclusive pairings will be offered, such as Taittinger champagne with Habanos Trinidad, Quai D'Orsay, and San Cristobal de Havana. Or the very popular Habanos Moments with the best rums and the finest wines. The Seminar will close with the final of the Habanos World Challenge contest, where aficionados will be able to put their Habano knowledge and skills to the test to prove they are the most knowledgeable as far as the universe of Habanos is concerned. The 24th Habano Festival, with an extensive agenda of activities, promises to be an unforgettable experience for those who wish to celebrate the rich history and culture of Habanos in Havana, the world capital of premium tobacco. *(P.A.O.) Protected Appellations of Origin. To consult the Humidor Auction catalogue click here. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344613/XXIII_Festival_del_Habano.jpg SOURCE Habanos, S.A. On 50th anniversary of Peter Benchley's novel Jaws, a new literary addition to the Jaws universe. ATLANTA, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In February 1974, Peter Benchley published his debut novel, Jaws. It became an instant best seller, and the rest was history. Fifty years later in 2024, history has repeated itself. The Book of Quint, a novel prequel to Jaws, sold out of its first printing in only two months after a world-wide release. Fans of both the book and movie Jaws have taken to bookshops around the world in search of what many are calling a "masterpiece" and "perfect prequel". Major vendors, from Walmart, Barnes and Noble, Waterstones, and Amazon are sold out in the United States, Australia, and Great Britain. In 2022, the Benchley family estate granted permission to debut author, Ryan Dacko, to publish his novel that tells the backstory to Quint, the tough fisherman played by Robert Shaw in the 1975 film. Dacko's own experience as a US Coast Guard Veteran, working on an ice breaker and rescue boats, as well as a commercial deep-sea diver and underwater welder, gave him a unique perspective into the world of Quint. With his Jaws Obsession podcast gaining popularity, Dacko showed the years of research and unearthing of details from the movie Jaws, where the story and characters in The Book of Quint were born. After a limited edition run of only 300 books published through an Indiegogo campaign in 2022, The Book of Quint was signed by Amberley Publishing out of England and released in the UK and Europe in November 2023. Total Film Magazine featured the book in their December 2023 issue and hailed the book as "awash with gripping trauma and tension." A wall of five-star reviews left by Amazon readers led to the North American release in January 2024. In hours, the entire run sold out making those first printing books instant collector's items. A second printing was ordered by the publisher as distributors desperately search for remaining books. You can follow the status of the novel on the weekly broadcast called The Jaws Obsession (https://jawsob.com/), which is hosted on all major podcast platforms around the world. Social media: (https://www.instagram.com/bookofquint/) The audiobook for The Book of Quint is set for a premiere on March 26, 2024 by Tantor Media and will be available on all platforms. https://tantor.com/the-book-of-quint-ryan-dacko.html The eBook for the Book of Quint is available worldwide on all platforms. Title: The Book of Quint Publisher : Amberley Publishing (15 Nov. 2023) ISBN-13 : 978-1398122475 Contact: William Pettit Agency Bill Pettit ***@gmail.com Photos: https://www.prlog.org/13008211 Press release distributed by PRLog SOURCE Ryan Dacko Dightman Capital Group, Inc. marks the beginning of RIA integrations into The Retirement Planning Group under Cetera Transaction follows Cetera's 2023 acquisition of The Retirement Planning Group SAN DIEGO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera Holdings, the holding company of Cetera Financial Group (collectively, Cetera), the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub, announced today that The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG) has acquired Dightman Capital Group, Inc., an RIA based in Overland Park, Kansas. TRPG has acquired 100% of the assets of Dightman Capital Group, Inc., which is owned and operated by Brian Dightman, CMT. Dightman is now a W-2 advisor at TRPG, which provides him a host of benefits, including office support, technology, marketing, insurance and employee benefits as he continues to serve his existing clients. "We are pleased to welcome Brian and his clients to the TRPG family, where we know they are positioned well for a bright future," said Kevin Conard, CEO at TRPG. "This acquisition represents a continuation of TRPG's successful M&A strategy, and the first of more to come with the support of Cetera. I encourage any independent advisors aspiring to spend more time taking care of their clients and less time on the operational aspects of running a business to consider TRPG as a destination of choice." "As I contemplated the long-term future of my business, I closely evaluated and considered nearly two dozen options and firms across the country," Dightman said. "From the moment I met Kevin and his team, I knew this was the right fit and could not be more pleased and optimistic about the future. The TRPG culture backed by Cetera's industry leading resources and support make this partnership the perfect choice for my business and my clients." In May 2023, Cetera Holdings acquired TRPG, which oversees approximately $1.8 billion in assets, as of January 31, 2024. In addition to holistic financial planning services, TRPG provides tax solutions as well as payroll and bookkeeping services to serve wide-ranging wealth management needs. TRPG is headquartered in Leawood, KS (near Kansas City), with offices in St. Louis and Denver. Click here to learn more about TRPG and click here for more information about Cetera Holdings. About Cetera Cetera Financial Group, which is owned by Cetera Holdings (collectively, Cetera), is the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub where financial advisors and institutions optimize their control and value creation. Breaking away from a commoditized and homogenous IBD model, Cetera offers financial professionals and institutions the latest solutions, support, and services to grow, scale, or transition with a merger, sale, investment, or succession plan. Cetera proudly serves independent financial advisors, tax professionals, licensed administrators, large enterprises, as well as institutions, such as banks and credit unions, providing an established and repeatable blueprint for scalable growth. Home to more than 12,000 financial professionals and their teams, Cetera oversees more than $475 billion in assets under administration and $190 billion in assets under management, as of December 20, 2023. In a recent advisor satisfaction survey of more than 32,000 reviews, Cetera's Voice of Customer (VoC) program vigorously measures advisor experience and satisfaction 24/7. Currently, it's ranked 4.8 out of 5 stars. Visit www.cetera.com, and follow Cetera on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. SOURCE Cetera Financial Group Focusing on President Jimmy Carter's Presidency WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the White House Historical Association released the Official 2024 White House Christmas Ornament which is in the shape of an anchor and reflects on President Jimmy Carter's service in the U.S. Navy and various aspects of his presidency. Images of the Official 2024 White House Christmas Ornament Front of the ornament The only ornament of its kind, the Official White House Christmas Ornament is produced by the White House Historical Association, a private, nonprofit, educational organization, with a mission to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the Executive Mansion. Today, the Association's acquisitions, preservation, research, and education efforts continue through generous private donations and the sale of its published books, products, and the Official White House Ornament. The Official White House Christmas Ornament is made in America by a veteran-founded business. The front and back of the Official 2024 White House Christmas Ornament features motifs honoring various aspects of Jimmy Carter's presidency and life including: A view of the North Portico accompanied by doves which symbolize President Carter's peacemaking efforts while in the White House, and red poinsettias recalling the colorful holiday decor at the Executive Mansion during his presidency. accompanied by while in the White House, and red poinsettias recalling the colorful holiday decor at the Executive Mansion during his presidency. The Seawolf-class USS Jimmy Carter (SSN-23) adorns the back of the ornament as Jimmy Carter is the only president to have qualified in submarines. adorns the back of the ornament as is the only president to have qualified in submarines. A globe decorates the back center anchor to signify Carter's life-long commitment to the environment and symbolizes Carter's efforts to secure world peace as a president and as a private citizen. decorates the back center anchor to signify Carter's and symbolizes Carter's efforts to secure as a president and as a private citizen. Embellishing the lower anchor are peanuts and their yellow blossoms, a reminder of Carter's years as a farmer and businessman in Plains, Georgia . The White House Historical Association has created the Official White House Christmas Ornament since 1981. Each ornament sequentially focuses on a president's time in the White House or a significant White House anniversary. The Official 2024 White House Christmas Ornament retails for $24.95 and is available online and in stores at these locations: The White House History Shop, 1610 H St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 The White House Visitor Center, 1450 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 Mayflower Hotel Pop-Up Shop, 1127 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 About The White House Historical Association The White House Historical Association was founded in 1961 by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to support her vision to restore and preserve the Executive Mansion and its legacy for generations to come. Mrs. Kennedy sought to inspire Americans, especially children, to explore and engage with American history and its presidents. Supported entirely by private resources, the Association is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that has contributed more than $115 million to the White House in fulfillment of its mission. To learn more about the White House Historical Association, please visit WhiteHouseHistory.org. SOURCE The White House Historical Association STOCKHOLM, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tobii Dynavox AB, (publ) ("Tobii Dynavox") the world leader in assistive communication, today announced revised financial targets and dividend policy. According to the new targets, Tobii Dynavox expects to grow revenue on average by 20% yearly and deliver an EBIT margin that reaches and exceeds 15%. The Board of Directors of Tobii Dynavox has revised the financial targets and dividend policy to better align with the company's current performance and outlook. The updated financial targets, with a time horizon of 3-4 years are: on average, grow revenue by 20% per year adjusted for currency effects, including contribution from acquisitions. deliver an EBIT margin that reaches and exceeds 15% The revised dividend policy is to distribute at least 40% of available net profits to shareholders in the form of dividends, share repurchases or comparable measures. Fredrik Ruben, CEO of Tobii Dynavox comments: "Since we set our previous financial targets in 2021, the company and the market have continued to develop in a way that is favorable to us. Our financial position is strengthened, we are growing significantly faster than before, and we have solid confidence in our improving profitability trend. Entering this new phase in the company's development, distribution of profits to shareholders also becomes relevant." More information about the revised targets will be given at the Capital Markets Day that Tobii Dynavox is hosting today, February 21, 2024 at 09:00 CET in Stockholm. A recording of the presentation along with all material will be published on our Investor Relations website on February 22. For reference: The previous targets that are now being replaced read: To increase currency-adjusted revenue by more than 10% on average per year To achieve and maintain an EBIT margin in excess of 15% To maintain Net debt in relation to LTM EBITDA of 2.5x +/- 0.5x Dividend Policy: "To primarily reinvest the Company's profit and use it for several growth opportunities identified by the Board in the near term (both organic and non-organic). The Board of Directors shall continuously evaluate the possibility of dividends, taking into account potential acquisition opportunities and other strategic initiatives." This information is information that Tobii Dynavox AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted, through the agency of the contact person set out below, for publication at 08:00 CET, on February 21, 2024. Contact Linda Tybring, CFO, Tobii Dynavox, phone: +46 (0) 7068 14 980, email: [email protected] The following files are available for download: SAO PAULO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Unigel Participacoes S.A ("Unigel") hereby informs the market in general that, today, it and certain of its subsidiaries (such subsidiaries, together with Unigel, the "Company Parties"), together with certain holders of Unigel's unsecured senior notes due 2026 issued by Unigel Luxembourg S.A. ("UnigelLuxembourg") (the "Original Signatory Creditors"), have jointly filed two consensual extrajudicial reorganization (recuperacao extrajudicial) plans with the 2nd. Bankruptcy State Court for the Sao Paulo District of the State of Sao Paulo (the "EJCourt"), one proposed by Unigel (such plan the "HoldCo EJ Plan") and one proposed by (i) Unigel Luxembourg; (ii) Proquigel Quimica S.A.; (iii) Companhia Brasileira de Estireno and (iv) Plastiglas de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (such plan the "OpCo EJ Plan", and together with HoldCo EJ Plan, the "EJ Plans"). The EJ Plans currently contemplate that only certain financial creditors designated thereto will have their claims against the Company Parties restructured under the EJ Plans. Concurrent with the filing of the EJ Plans, and as required by Brazilian law, the Original Signatory Creditors, holders of more than one-third (1/3) of the claims against each of the Company Parties to be restructured by the EJ Plans signed jointly the filings to evidence their support. The Company Parties and the Original Signatory Creditors will have ninety (90) days to demonstrate the approval of the EJ Plans by a majority of the claims held against each of the Company Parties to be restructured under the EJ Plans, as required under Brazilian Bankruptcy Law. The EJ Plans will then be considered by the EJ Court without a general meeting of creditors and, after confirmed, will require recognition by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. Under the terms of the EJ Plans, approximately R$3.9 billion in existing claims against the Company Parties (which represents the approximate amount of the claims against the Company Parties to be restructured under the EJ Plans) will be restructured into (i) newly issued debt instruments (the "New Notes") and (ii) newly issued convertible participating titles (the "Participating Titles", and both securities together the "Reinstated Securities") and delivered to the financial creditors affected by the EJ Plans in exchange for cancellation of their existing claims. The final amounts of Reinstated Securities issued under each EJ Plan will depend on the participation of the impaired creditors in the New Money Notes (as defined below) (in accordance with the terms of the EJ Plans). The EJ Plans further provide that that Company Parties will issue at least US$100 million in new money notes due December 2027 (the "New Money Notes"). Pursuant to the terms of the EJ Plans, holders of the claims to be restructured under the EJ Plans will be entitled to participate in the issuance of New Money Notes and creditors effectively participating in the New Money Notes will receive in aggregate an equity interest in Unigel of 50%. This consensual solution is a result of intense negotiations carried-out in the past months and reinforces both Unigel's and the Original Signatory Creditors' commitment to improving Unigel's capital structure, enhancing its liquidity and deleveraging the Company Parties, for the benefit of all stakeholders. In connection with the negotiation of the EJ Plans, the Company Parties agreed to disclose publicly material non-public information concerning the Company Parties that has been provided to the Original Signatory Creditors. In satisfaction of such disclosure obligations, the EJ Plans (and associated commercial term sheets) and such additional information are publicly available on Unigel's website at https://ri.unigel.com.br/en/restructuring-plan/. The consummation of the EJ Plans is subject to the satisfaction of the closing conditions therein and, among other things, the entry into of final documentation, the adhesion of the majority of the impaired credits affected by the EJ Plans and confirmation of the EJ Plans by the EJ Court pursuant to a final order. DISCLAIMER FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: Certain information contained in this press release may contain forward looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "continue", "plan", "propose", "would", "will", "believe", "expect", "position", "anticipate", "improve", "enhance" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this document may contain forward-looking statements concerning: key terms of the restructuring; the expected process and timing for implementing the restructuring; the deadlines for submitting proxies and voting instructions; the scheduling of the creditors' meeting; the relief to be sought in by Unigel in the proceedings in respect of the EJ Plans; the completion of the restructuring, including with respect to obtaining any necessary approvals and satisfying any conditions and the expected timing thereof; the public posting of materials and information related to the restructuring; and the effect of the restructuring. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with the ability of Unigel to implement the restructuring on the terms described in this press release, the ability of Unigel to receive all necessary court, third party and stakeholder approvals in order to complete the transaction; the ability of Unigel to operate in the ordinary course during the proceedings, including with respect to satisfying obligations to service providers, suppliers, contractors and employees; the ability of Unigel to continue as a going concern; the ability of Unigel to continue to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities and commitments; Unigel's future liquidity position and access to capital to fund ongoing operations and obligations (including debt obligations); and the ability of Unigel to stabilize its business and financial condition. Although Unigel bases its forward-looking statements on assumptions believed to be reasonable when made, they are not guarantees of future performance and actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and developments in the industry in which Unigel operates, may differ materially from any such information and statements in this news release. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could harm Unigel's future results. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made only as at the date hereof. Unigel does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. THIS RELEASE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES AND IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE IN ANY STATE OR JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. SECURITIES MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES UNLESS THEY ARE REGISTERED OR EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE "SECURITIES ACT"). THE EJ PLANS AND THEIR ATTACHMENTS ARE NOT AN OFFER OR ACCEPTANCE WITH RESPECT TO ANY SECURITIES OR A SOLICITATION TO PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES OR AN ACCEPTANCE OF THE EJ PLANS PROPOSED IN CONNECTION WITH ANY INSOLVENCY PROCEEDING AND ANY SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION WILL COMPLY WITH ALL APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS AND ANY OTHER APPLICABLE LAW. SOURCE Unigel Veldskoen, iconic African shoe brand grows strategic US investment. Buys back shares from Ashton Kutcher and Mark Cuban. Post this Nick Dreyer, co-founder of Veldskoen, expressed his enthusiasm for the plans, stating, "I am excited about Veldskoen Shoes' journey in the United States. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and comfort aligns with our values, and I believe we have tremendous potential in this market." Dreyer continues "We are very happy in our new US headquarters in Atlanta and this expansion will allow us to bring our unique and high-quality footwear to even more customers showing off South-African manufacturing excellence." Nick concludes, "We are grateful for the support we received from Fun Brands, Ashton Kutcher and Mark Cuban." The strategic investment will fuel Veldskoen Shoes' ambitious growth plans, including partnering with new retail outlets, an enhanced online presence, and increased marketing efforts to reach a broader audience. Veldskoen Shoes is well-known for its iconic, handmade, and ethically crafted footwear, inspired by the traditional South African "Veldskoen" or "Field Shoe" a durable and comfortable shoe designed for most terrains. The brand's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility has resonated with consumers globally. Its famous coloured soles and laces and South African flag label are its instantly recognisable signature features. Fans of the shoe include Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, actress Briana Evigan and British journalist Jeremy Clarkson. The expansion plan includes the opening of new offices in Atlanta, Georgia, increased availability in major retail outlets, strategic pop-ups in major cities, and a strengthened e-commerce platform to make Veldskoen Shoes easily accessible to consumers across the country. Veldskoen Shoes invites the public to join them in celebrating this milestone and looks forward to bringing their comfortable and stylish footwear to even more people in the United States. Editors notes: www.veldskoenshoes.com About Veldskoen Shoes: Veldskoen Shoes is a South African footwear brand known for its iconic, eco-friendly, and ethically crafted shoes inspired by the traditional "Veldskoen." With a commitment to quality, comfort, and sustainability, Veldskoen Shoes has gained recognition globally for its unique footwear offerings. SOURCE Veldskoen Shoes Windward chosen by INTERPOL, the world's largest international police organization, to enhance its global efforts to address illegal activities at sea and create a safer maritime environment LONDON, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Windward (LSE: WNWD), the leading Maritime AI company, has announced a partnership with INTERPOL, The International Criminal Police Organization, to assist in their mission of facilitating a secure maritime environment. Windward's Maritime AI will provide valuable intelligence and insights to help identify, track, and prevent criminal activities such as illicit trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal fishing, creating a more secure maritime environment. Sea transport accounts for around 90 percent of the global movement of goods. However, the vastness of the oceans and the sheer magnitude of vessels and containers in operation make maritime security a challenging task, especially due to its international nature. The lack of actionable visibility in the maritime domain emboldens criminals, negatively impacts global trade, and poses significant threats to national and international security. Through this partnership, INTERPOL will leverage Windward's insights to advance investigations of suspicious vessels, activities, and areas of interest worldwide. Windward's platform will enhance INTERPOL's capacity to detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities, including smuggling, piracy, IUU, human trafficking, and the transportation of illegal goods to create a safer maritime environment which is essential for the smooth flow of global trade. "Our oceans are vast and that is often exploited by bad actors to evade authorities. We are honored that INTERPOL chose Windward's solution to support their fight against global maritime crime," said Ami Daniel, CEO of Windward. "This is a testament to the excellence of our advanced AI capabilities which will make a significant impact in addressing the critical issue of maritime crime and making the seas safer for global trade." Windward's Maritime AI platform is powered by advanced machine learning and behavioral analytics models, utilizing billions of data points to provide valuable insights into vessel behaviors, and ownership structures, and predict in real-time which vessels are likely to be involved in illicit activities. Windward's solution is the global standard in maritime domain awareness, enabling government bodies across the globe to protect their borders, national interests, and citizens, by bringing visibility to the opaque maritime environment. "Tackling maritime crime has become a crucial mission for law enforcement agencies and INTERPOL. We work with local, regional, and international stakeholders to reduce maritime crime globally and improve maritime governance," said Hasan Khajah, Coordinator of the Maritime Security Unit of INTERPOL. "We welcome the opportunity to leverage Windward's technological and maritime expertise to bolster our enforcement capabilities and help achieve a safer maritime environment." About Windward Windward (LSE:WNWD), is the leading Maritime AI company, providing an all-in-one platform to accelerate global trade. Windward's AI-powered decision support and exception management platform offers a 360 view of the maritime ecosystem and enables stakeholders to make real time, predictive intelligence-driven decisions to achieve business and operational readiness. Windward's Maritime AI supports companies across industries. The company's clients range from oil supermajors, freight forwarders, and port authorities, to banks, shippers, insurers, and governmental organizations. For more information visit: https://windward.ai/. About INTERPOL INTERPOL's mission is to enable police around the world to work together to prevent and fight crime. It offers police a high-tech international infrastructure of technical and operational support to meet the growing challenges of fighting emerging types of crime. Only through international cooperation can police hope to tackle today's criminals. It works to ensure that police around the world can instantly share and access the relevant data necessary to assist their investigations through secure communications channels. Media Contact David Hoffman Headline Media [email protected] +972-52-842-1955 SOURCE Windward DUBLIN, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "GaN Electronics Patent Landscape Analysis 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. In this context, the GaN Electronics Patent Landscape report aims to understand what is the strategy of players to consolidate their position in the emerging power and RF GaN markets and to limit the risks and uncertainties related to the adoption, industrialization and commercialization of a new power and RF semiconductor technologies (investment, geopolitical and IP risks). What's more, the report identifies well-established IP players, IP challengers and newcomers, which are not yet in the power or RF GaN markets and thereby may represent either a threat (future IP and market challengers) or an opportunity to access external innovation (M&A targets, partnerships, IP licensing), depending on the perspective. Eventually, the report positions early market players in the global IP competition, as these players are the most likely to assert their patents against new players entering the power or RF GaN markets, to maintain and expand their market leadership. Methodology for GaN electronics patent selection and patent analysis The patent search covers inventions across the whole GaN value chain, from materials (wafers and epiwafers) to circuits, targeting any kind of electronic applications. The selection is mainly based on the analysis patent claims: In the upstream supply chain (wafers, epiwafers, devices), relevant inventions are required to focus specifically on GaN materials and devices. A generic invention, i.e., applicable to different power or RF semiconductors, is not be considered as relevant. In the downstream supply chain (packaging, modules, circuits, applications), generic inventions, applicable to GaN or SiC or Si in power applications or applicable to GaN or GaAs or Si in RF applications, are considered as relevant. In recent years, more and more IP players started disclosing high number of generic inventions where the application scope is not limited to a single field of application (e.g., RF, power). This growing IP trend arose from IP players' adaptation strategy in the GaN electronics landscape, aiming to address different markets (power, RF) with a single technology platform (e.g., GaN-on-Si). Such generic inventions were categorized as "Not specified" and were analyzed in both power and RF GaN IP landscapes: In the power GaN IP landscape, we analyzed all power GaN patents and generic GaN electronics patents from IP players owning power GaN patents, resulting in a corpus of more than 10,000 patent families (inventions). In the RF GaN IP landscape, we analyzed all RF GaN patents and generic GaN electronics patents from IP players owning RF GaN patents, resulting in a corpus of more than 6,500 patent families (inventions). Focus on national and regional IP strategies to address geopolitical uncertainties The GaN electronics patenting activities from Japanese players in the 2000s and then from the Chinese players since 2015, have been massive. As such, they mask important IP trends occurring in other countries with significant market opportunities and stand-out companies advancing GaN technology. What's more, IP has become an important component in the adaption strategies of companies and countries to a geopolitical context that can cause volatility. This report unveils these new IP trends and IP strategies by providing a separated analysis of each national or regional ecosystems emerging for power and RF GaN technologies. For each region are detailed: Time evolution of IP activities, Supply chain from a patent perspective, Status of players' IP activity, Most active IP players and new entrants, Main technical challenges addressed by IP players, IP strategies of players, Recent IP collaborations and IP transfers, and Key players' patent portfolio. In-depth analysis of the global IP competition across the power and RF GaN supply chains Generally, IP strategies should focus on what a company has identified as most critical to impact the power and RF GaN markets, in terms of logistics (supply), technology (barriers), volatility (regulations, geopolitics) and economics (costs, margins). Accordingly, IP competition analysis should reflect the vision of players with a strategy to enter and develop their business in the power and RF GaN markets. Interestingly, new players looking to a vertical integration strategy may be identified based on their patenting activity, expanding into new parts of the supply chain. What's more, such strategies may leverage different partnerships and acquisitions that involve the IP of other players and that have important implications for the complete ecosystem. This report unveils the IP strategies of main players in the GaN electronics landscape and the potential implications of acquisitions and partnerships between the GaN electronics IP players, leveraging a combined market, supply chain and technology-based analysis. For each segment of the supply chain are detailed: Time evolution of IP activities, Main patent assignees, most active IP players, and new entrants, IP leadership, Current legal status of their patents, Technical challenges addressed by IP players, Main patent assignees and new entrant by technical challenge. As the competition grows in the power and RF markets, players may leverage their IP to assert their market position, providing that they have built strong patent portfolios in strategic IP spaces of the technology. The report aims to identify such strategic IP spaces based on the analysis of the IP competition related to critical aspects of the technology. For instance, the realization of e-mode transistors has been a critical issue for the commercialization of GaN technology in power applications. In the GaN Electronics Patent Landscape report, this is one of the most competitive IP space that has been identified in the power GaN supply chain. Recently, e-mode GaN patents have been at the center of a US-China patent dispute between two of the main IP players in the power GaN patent landscape. EPC is a well-established IP player in this space, while Innoscience is one of the main IP challengers. Such dispute reminds the threat represented by the IP of tiers companies in a particular geopolitical and economic context. It should support the establishment of more IP licensing agreements and partnerships between GaN electronics IP players in the next few years. The report details the complex relationships between GaN electronics IP players (patent co-filings, patent transfers and patent litigations). Useful Excel patent database This report also includes an extensive Excel database with the 15,000+ patent families (inventions) analyzed in this study. This useful patent database allows for multi-criteria searches and includes patent publication numbers, hyperlinks to an updated online database (original documents, legal status, etc.), priority date, title, abstract, patent assignees, patent's current legal status, and segments (wafers and epiwafers, devices, packaging and modules, circuits and applications, current collapse, e-mode transistor, GaN-on-Si, etc.). GaN Electronics (Power & RF applications) - From materials to devices, modules & circuits: Patent Landscape Analysis Key Report Features PDF>400 slides Excel database containing all patents analyzed in the report (>15,000 patent families), including segmentations + hyperlink to updated online database (legal status, documents etc.) Describing the global patenting trends, including time evolution of patent publications, countries of patent filings, etc. Identifying the main patent assignees and the IP newcomers in the different segments of the supply chain. Determining the status of their patenting activity (active/inactive) and their IP dynamics (ramping up, slowing down, steady). Identifying the IP collaborations (patent co-filings) and IP transfers (changes of patent ownership). Providing a detailed picture of the different GaN ecosystems focusing on the patenting activity of US, Japanese, Chinese, European, South Korean and Taiwanese entities. Patents categorized in 2 application segments, 4 main supply chain segments and 6 main technical segments: RF, power, wafers and epiwafers, devices, packaging and modules, circuits and applications, current collapse, e-mode, GaN-on-Si, monolithic integration, thermal management, vertical devices. IP profile of main players: Patent portfolio overview (IP dynamics, segmentation, legal status, geographic coverage, etc.) Power GaN The power GaN industry landscape has been reshaped by acquisitions of startup companies and partnerships between well-established players in the power electronics industry. The application base for GaN technology is widening. The adoption of GaN power devices in replacement for Si power devices is accelerating, especially in consumer applications. Well-established GaN players and newcomers announced the development of high-voltage GaN technology to compete with Si IGBT and SiC MOSFET in EV applications. New companies have entered the power GaN market recently or announced their intention to enter this market shortly. Early market players look to consolidate their leadership amid growing competition worldwide and geopolitical tensions escalating between US and China . . As a countermeasure to US trade sanctions, China is driving the development of a domestic supply chain to serve its own market. RF GaN The RF GaN industry landscape has been reshaped by acquisitions and partnerships (IP, manufacturing) between well-established players in the RF industry. The deployment of 5G base stations is driving the RF GaN market, with GaN-on-SiC RF devices progressively replacing Si LDMOS in the telecom infrastructure. There is a growing interest for RF GaN-on-Si devices as the telecom infrastructure evolves toward lower power and higher frequencies (e.g., 6G applications). The opportunity to offer RF GaN technology at lower cost by leveraging the existing Si manufacturing lines and the GaN-on-Si platform is expected to drive the emergence of new players in the RF GaN market. RF GaN-on-Si technology is now close to enter the market. Yet many technical challenges remain to be solved for the large-scale adoption of the RF GaN-on-Si platform (incl. reliability, process maturity and scalability). Regardless of the platform, innovations at all levels - from epitaxy to devices, packaging and circuits - are still strongly required to fully unlock the potential of GaN technology in RF applications. In the field of telecommunications, US government has recently banned new equipment from Chinese players such as Huawei and ZTE, citing national security risk. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/tp0nro 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 In just one week, the Ukrainian Armed Forces destroyed 7 Russian military aircraft. After such numerous losses, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin presented the main command of the Russian Aerospace Forces with a copy of the icon "Savior of the Unmanufactured". ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the Russian media. Netizens immediately began to joke that it is unlikely that the Russian Orthodox Church will give a guarantee that the icon will be able to somehow help Russian aviation and save it from the strikes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Thus, over the past three days, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have shot down six Russian aircraft, including a Su-34 fighter-bomber and a Su-35 fighter jet. One more aircraft was shot down in the morning of February 21 - it was a Su-34 bomber. In total, since the beginning of the invasion in February 2022, according to the Ukrainian side, Moscow has already lost 336 aircraft. People on the Internet ironically joke that after such significant losses in aviation, the Russian war criminal Putin hopes only for the help of icons. "Can it fly?"; "Does the ROC guarantee that the icon will help? Or is it as usual?"; "Now everything will work out, that's why the planes were shot down, because there was no icon"; "An equal exchange, whatever you say"; "Like a dead man's poultice"; "The icon will protect and the planes will not be needed? I understood that right?" they wrote online. ADVERTISIMENT ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA, on February 21, the Ukrainian military downed another enemy Su-34 fighter jet. This is the seventh enemy aircraft in a week that the Defense Forces have managed to land. A Su-35 was also in the crosshairs, but it was lucky - "it maneuvered and no longer poses a risk." On February 19, Ukrainian defenders destroyed a Su-34 fighter-bomber and a Su-35S fighter jet of the Russian Aerospace Forces. Both enemy aircraft landed in the eastern part of Ukraine. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: XHR) ("Xenia" or the "Company") today announced that its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held in Orlando, Florida on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. The Company's Board of Directors has established March 21, 2024, as the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote at the 2024 Annual Stockholders Meeting. About Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc. Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is a self-advised and self-administered REIT that invests in uniquely positioned luxury and upper upscale hotels and resorts with a focus on the top 25 lodging markets as well as key leisure destinations in the United States. The Company owns 32 hotels comprising 9,514 rooms across 14 states. Xenia's hotels are in the luxury and upper upscale segments and operated and/or licensed by industry leaders such as Marriott, Hyatt, Kimpton, Fairmont, Loews, Hilton, The Kessler Collection, and Davidson. For more information on Xenia's business, refer to the Company website at www.xeniareit.com . For additional information or to receive press releases via email, please visit our website at www.xeniareit.com SOURCE Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc. PRAGUE, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The SPV AMBER ENERGY, part of Czech entrepreneur Zdenek Sobotka's SOLEK Holding group, has emerged as one of the winners of the auction to supply of utility scale battery energy storage facilities in Greece. In this second national auction, organized by Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) of Greece, SOLEK secured a 18MW/36MWh project. This significant success will enable SOLEK to expand its presence in the renewable energy sector and offer innovative energy storage solutions in Greece. Czech entrepreneur Zdenek Sobotka, SOLEK Holding group This is SOLEK's first energy project awarded in an auction in Greece. It places the company among the major energy players contributing to the development of sustainable energy in Europe and around the world. "The 18 MW battery energy storage project not only strengthens our renewable energy portfolio, but also our ability to successfully compete on the international energy market. We look to replicate this success in other countries in the future. In Europe, we are targeting Cyprus, Romania and the Czech Republic, for example," said Zdenek Sobotka, owner and founder of SOLEK Holding. Greece, with support from the EU's Modernization Fund, is auctioning 1GW of battery with the aim of assuring stability and flexibility in the energy grid, and creating the conditions for the transition to renewable energy sources. This was the country's second major auction, organized by Regulatory Authority for Energy (RAE) of Greece, and this time 11 projects from 7 bidders were successful. The total allocated capacity was 300 MW. One of the deciding criteria was the price offered per megawatt of capacity per year, with an average bid price of 47,680. In 2022, the EU approved the Greek government's plan to spend 341 million on 900 MW of energy storage capacity. On 20 May 2023, the Greek Government issued the Ministerial Decision regarding the energy storage support scheme, for a total capacity of 1,000 megawatts split in three separate auctions of 400, 300 and 300 MW, respectively. State support takes the form of investment subsidies for projects during construction, followed by annual support during the first 10 years of operation. In the case of this second auction, the investment (capital expenditure) support stood at 100,000 per megawatt, half the amount of the previous auction. By increasing its available electricity storage capacity, Greece will be ready for a future in which renewables form the backbone of the energy mix. "Greece is becoming one of the leaders in the fight against climate change thanks to its efforts to decarbonise its energy sector, by taking advantages of its strategic position and huge renewable potential in solar and wind," added Gregoris Marinakis Regional Manager Greece and Cyprus at SOLEK. SOLEK Holding is a leading energy company engaged in the design, construction and operation of solar power plants in Europe and Latin America. In particular, it operates in Chile, where it manages nearly 40 photovoltaic power plants with a total capacity of over 250 MW. The Group is now focusing on new and promising areas such as the development of floating PV plants, agrovoltaics and battery energy storage. The SOLEK Group as a whole had 274 MW connected at the end of 2023, and currently has 212 MW of solar power plants under construction. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2344509/Solek_Holding_SE.jpg Anti-satellite nuclear space weapons, which, according to Western media, are being developed by the aggressor country Russia, could potentially destroy low Earth orbit for everyone. The international community should be concerned only by the fact that someone wants to get such a weapon. ADVERTISIMENT This opinion was expressed by Major General Michael Trout, responsible for the German Military Space Command. According to him, it makes no difference whether this bomb is detonated in the high layers of the Earth's atmosphere or directly in space. One way or another, this will be the end of "the use of this global asset (orbit - Ed.)." "No one will survive such an action - not a single satellite, not Chinese, not Russian, not American, not European," Trout said. The weapon, which, according to CNN, is being developed by the Russians, is probably aimed at destroying all satellites in orbit, both foreign and their own. The idea is to use a powerful energy explosion that would turn the satellites into an orbiting "dead mass." According to him, the worst-case scenario of an indiscriminate nuclear explosion in space that emits an electromagnetic pulse that fries a satellite in low Earth orbit would be devastating for everyone. ADVERTISIMENT Trout notes that this is a major concern. He is confident that people with "rational calculation" would not even think of using such a weapon, as all the satellites in orbit would turn into debris, and a dense debris field would be created. In addition, the destruction of the satellite network could lead to global chaos on the Earth's surface, as too many systems are tied to the use of satellites. According to the director of the European Space Policy Institute, Ludwig Moller, if Russia takes out commercial satellites with a space bomb, it could cause up to trillions of dollars in damage and affect everything from the energy sector to the banking industry. Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that, according to Bloomberg, Russia could launch nuclear weapons into space this year. Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. 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 Jammu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses during the foundation-laying ceremony of various development projects. Image Source: IANS News Varanasi, Feb 21 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate projects worth more than Rs 14,000 crore in Varanasi on February 23. According to Kashi region BJP president Dilip Patel, BJP workers will welcome the Prime Minister as he arrives in the city on Thursday evening. From the airport to Banaras Locomotive Work guest house, BJP workers and citizens will shower petals on Prime Minister Modi amid 'damarus' being played by the Damaru Dal and the sound of conch shells. On February 23, PM Modi will attend a programme at Swatantra Bhavan, BHU, where he will give away certificates to toppers of Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita. Thereafter, he will visit Sant Ravidas Temple in Seergovardhan where he will offer prayers to Sant Ravidas and will have 'prasad' in the Langar (community feast). He will also unveil a statue of Sant Ravidas on the temple premises and address a public meeting. Patel said that the Prime Minister will visit Banas Dairy Plant, Karkhiyavan. Before addressing another public meeting, PM Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of projects worth about Rs 14,316 crore. Of these, he will inaugurate 23 projects worth Rs 10,972 crore and lay the foundation stone of (over a dozen) projects worth Rs 3,344 crore. The foundation stones of 12 projects, including the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus in Bada Lalpur, the National Centre for Aging at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), the Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway to be built under the Bharatmala project, multi-level car parking at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi, and Advanced Research and Manufacturing Plant by BHEL at Karkhiyaon, Varanasi Medical College, Sant Guru Ravidas Museum and Park will be laid. Inauguration of Banas Kashi Sankul Dairy at Karkhiyavan, renovation and expansion of Sigra Stadium, waste to charcoal plant to be built in Ramna and Panchkoshi Parikrama Marg will be done during the Prime Minister's visit. Prayagraj, Feb 21 : Nearly 776 examination centres for Class 10 and Class 12 exams of Uttar Pradesh Board have been identified as sensitive and 275 centres have been declared highly sensitive by the Uttar Pradesh Board for its high school and intermediate exams beginning from Thursday. A total of 16 districts of the state have also been declared highly sensitive by the Uttar Pradesh Board. These districts include Mathura, Baghpat, Aligarh, Mainpuri, Etah, Hardoi, Azamgarh, Ballia, Mau, Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Chandauli, Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Deoria and Gonda. This year, a total of total 55,25,308 candidates, including 29,47,311 students for class 10 and 25,77,997 for class 12, have registered for the Uttar Pradesh Board exams. These candidates will take the exam at 8,265 centres spread across 75 districts of the state, said Uttar Pradesh Board Secretary Divyakant Shukla. Among them, 257 candidates are inmates lodged in different prisons of the state as well. Of them, 139 are to appear in class 12 exams while 118 will take class 10 exams. Shukla said, "To conduct the exams in a free and fair manner, 1,297 sector magistrates, 430 zonal magistrates, 416 mobile teams and 75 state-level supervisory officers have been appointed in all districts for inspection and supervision of examination centres." CCTV cameras with more than 2.90 lakh voice recorders have been installed in around 1.35 lakh examination rooms at all 8,265 examination centres. "Arrangements for DVR (digital voice recorders), router devices and high-speed internet connections have also been made," he added. Both Class 10 and Class 12 exams are starting from February 22 and would conclude on March 9 in a total of 12 working days. Arrangements have been made for live monitoring through webcasting. Besides, Special Task Force of Uttar Pradesh Police and local intelligence unit have also been roped in for monitoring sensitive and highly sensitive examination centres. A call centre would also be operated at the state control room for quick redressal of the complaints of candidates and general public, in which two helpline numbers would be activated. As per officials, for the first time, command and control centres have been set up at the Uttar Pradesh Board headquarters in Prayagraj as well as all the five of its regional offices at Meerut, Bareilly, Prayagraj, Varanasi and Gorakhpur for round the clock vigil and security of question papers and the strongrooms in which they are being stored. Gaza, Feb 21 : At least 12 Palestinians were killed during an Israeli attack on a residential square in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian medical sources. The medical sources told Xinhua news agency that "the Palestinian civil defence crews transported 12 bodies of Palestinians and dozens of wounded after targeting several homes in the Nuseirat camp, which was crowded with displaced people". "The bodies of the victims arrived in pieces at a local hospital, while the wounded were transferred to the hospital to receive treatment amid great suffering due to the running out of medicines and the limited number of medical staff present in the hospital," the sources said. The sources added that they are facing "extreme difficulty" in dealing with the large number of victims arriving at hospitals, Xinhua news agency reported. Earlier on Tuesday, the Gaza-based Health Ministry announced that the number of Palestinian deaths as a result of Israeli attacks on the Strip had risen to 29,195 since the outbreak of the Hamas-Israel conflict. Islamabad, Feb 22 : Pakistan's two major political parties, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), agreed to form a coalition government in Centre, leaders of the two parties said. "Both the parties have agreed on a power-sharing formula as we have the required number of seats in the National Assembly (NA) to form the government," PML-N President and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday evening during a joint press conference in Islamabad. Following days of negotiations between the two parties, it has been decided that Sharif will be the joint candidate for both parties for the slot of Prime Minister and PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari will be the joint candidate for the President's slot, Xinhua news agency reported. Sharif said that the independent candidates, who emerged victorious in majority by securing m ore than 100 seats, were invited to form the government, but they failed to achieve the required numbers. He added that other parties such as the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, the Pakistan Muslim League, and the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party supported PML-N and PPP in the government-making endeavour. Acknowledging that the road ahead for the coalition government will be challenging, Sharif said that the coalition alliance is prepared to confront and overcome the obstacles together. The upcoming government will work together to pull the country out of the ongoing crises, he said, expressing the hope to be able to deliver. Speaking on the occasion, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the details of the sharing of key constitutional offices between the PPP and PML-N will be announced in the coming days. Expressing hopes for success in addressing Pakistan's challenges, the PPP Chairman said that the news of the political alliance of the PPP with the PML-N to form a coalition government will lead to a positive response from the markets and bring stability. Earlier, the Election Commission of Pakistan announced the result of 265 out of 266 seats for the NA after the country held general elections on February 8 to elect a government for the next five-year term, with no political party securing a simple majority, compelling parties to make alliances to form the government in Centre. Washington, Feb 21 : Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, former US ambassador to the United Nations and former Governor of South Carolina, has said that she is not dropping out of the race. Haley made the remarks on Tuesday in a "State of the Race" address in Greenville, South Carolina, just days ahead of the Republican primary in the southeastern state, where she served as the first female Governor from 2011 to 2017, Xinhua news agency reported. "When the country's future is on the line, you don't drop out. You keep fighting. In fact, you fight harder than ever. That's why I refuse to quit," she said in the speech delivered at Clemson University at Greenville ONE. "South Carolina will vote on Saturday. But on Sunday, I'll still be running for President. I'm not going anywhere," she added. Haley, who is trying to challenge former President Donald Trump on her home turf, said the presidential primaries have barely begun, with just three states having voted. Trump won GOP primary in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada, cementing his status as the clear front-runner to become the Republican Party's nominee for the presidential election. "That's not a lot. In the 10 days after South Carolina, another 21 states and territories will vote," she said, eying Super Tuesday on March 5, when several states are set to hold presidential primary elections. The Republican presidential candidate accused President Joe Biden and Trump of turning people against each other and dividing the country at a time "when America desperately, urgently, needs a uniter". "Congress is too divided and broken to do its job. Families won't even talk to each other at the dinner table," she said. "These are dangerous times." "I'm running for President to restore a country that's strong and proud. That is why I will stay in the race after South Carolina votes," she added. Press Release February 21, 2024 Senate passes bill to increase daily minimum wage as Bong Go calls for improved living standards for Filipinos On Monday, February 19, the Senate approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2534, also known as the P100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act of 2023, a measure co-authored and co-sponsored by Senator Christopher "Bong" Go. Go, in a speech explaining his affirmative vote, underscored the measure's primary objective: to provide Filipino workers with a living wage that not only meets their basic needs but also safeguards them from the grips of poverty. "Dapat po talaga ay may maayos na pasahod sa mga ordinaryong mangagawang Pilipino. It is the goal of this measure to provide for a living wage that allows our Filipino workers to earn enough income for a satisfactory standard of living and prevent them from falling into poverty," Go stated, reinforcing the bill's intention to create a more equitable economic environment for all Filipinos. Further elaborating on his advocacy for social justice, the senator highlighted the importance of finding a harmonious balance between the interests of employers and workers. This approach aims to ensure that the rights and well-being of all workforce sectors are equally recognized and protected. "Moreover, as an advocate of social justice, I just want to reiterate the importance of striking a balance between the interest of the employers and workers. Dapat po ay may pantay ding pagkilala sa karapatan at kapakanan ng lahat ng sektor sa lakas-paggawa," he explained. Go also emphasized the significance of generosity during trying times, saying, "Sa mga mayayaman, kung 'di naman kayo malulugi, ipamahagi niyo naman po ang kita ninyo sa mga mahihirap -- sa mga isang kahig, isang tuka, na bawat piso po ay napakahalaga na meron pong pambili ng pagkain, na may laman po ang tiyan sa araw-araw." Meanwhile, the senator also expressed his sincere gratitude for the bill's passage on third reading, highlighting the collaborative efforts of his colleagues in the Senate. "I commend the good sponsor, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, and our Senate President, Juan Miguel Zubiri, for their relentless drive in helping our ordinary Filipino workers," Go remarked. Zubiri is the principal author of the measure. To end, Go reaffirmed his dedication to advancing the rights and welfare of Filipino workers, promising to continue supporting legislation that benefits this vital segment of society. "Ako po ay patuloy na makikiisa sa bawat panukalang ating ihahain upang pagtibayin ang kapakanan at karapatan ng ating manggagawang Pilipino," he concluded. Earlier, Go cited a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations from September to October last year, revealing that around 13.2 million families consider themselves poor. He stressed that the proposed wage increase ensures that the economic recovery is inclusive and benefits all sectors of society, particularly the working class. If enacted into law, the measure will raise the daily minimum wage by PhP100. Reducing the initially proposed wage hike from PhP150 to PhP100 considers previous adjustments to provide a balanced and sustainable solution to wage disparities. The current daily minimum wage in the National Capital Region stands at PhP610. Go highlighted the bill's alignment with the constitutional mandate to improve the quality of life for ordinary Filipinos, especially working-class ones. Cillian Murphy, the star of Peaky Blinders, has an incredibly pleasant and friendly relationship with director Christopher Nolan, in whose films the actor has played 6 times. He received the first copy of the script for Oppenheimer from Nolan with a small note that cannot but touch him. ADVERTISIMENT In an interview with 60 Minutes, Cillian Murphy told how he was offered a role in the movie for the sixth time, but this time as the main character. The actor's performance in Oppenheimer touched the audience so much that he even won the Golden Globe 2024 for Best Actor and the BAFTA 2024 for Best Actor. "Chris came to see me in Dublin, he called me on the phone and we talked about it. And then he came from America and brought it [the script] to me in Dublin and then he left. I read it in his hotel room," Murphy said about the first copy of the script for one of the most important films of 2023. An important message from Nolan was written on the cover, saying, "Dearest Cillian. Finally, a chance to see you lead... Love, Chris." ADVERTISIMENT Interestingly, the script is printed on red paper, which is quite strange and unusual. Murphy says it's typical for a director to type with black ink on red paper. "They always type on red paper with black ink, I think it is done to prevent photocopying. He always had a tradition of printing on red paper with black ink. My name is kind of watermarked on each page," the actor explained. As we noted earlier, this is the sixth time Cillian Murphy has appeared in Christopher Nolan's films. You can see the list of their joint projects below. ADVERTISIMENT Oppenheimer, 2023 Genre: thriller, detective, biography The hero: Robert Oppenheimer Robert Oppenheimer was a key figure in the American Manhattan Project during World War II to develop the atomic bomb. The film describes his life, including his interaction with the US government, his contribution to the development of nuclear physics, and the internal conflicts over the ethics of nuclear energy that led to the deadly explosions in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Inception, 2010 Genre: thriller, science fiction, action The hero: Robert Fisher Jr The movie is based on the idea of using technology to penetrate dreams and manipulate people's subconscious. The protagonist, fulfilling orders, is able to interfere with dreams and steal valuable information for his own purposes. However, in this movie, his task is much more complicated: to instill an idea in the subconscious of a particular person. ADVERTISIMENT Batman Begins, 2005 Genre: action, crime The hero: Jonathan Crane The film tells the story of the origin and formation of Bruce Wayne, who, after the deliberate murder of his parents, decides to change his life and fight evil in Gotham. He undergoes training in the League of Shadows, where he learns various combat and psychological skills. Upon returning to Gotham, he takes on the guise of Batman to fight crime and corruption in the city. Murphy's character Jonathan Crane, aka Scarecrow, is Wayne's main antagonist. ADVERTISIMENT The Dark Knight, 2008 Genre: action, crime The hero: Jonathan Crane The second part of the Batman movie from Nolan's universe. The Dark Knight tells the story of the fierce battle between Batman, prosecutor Harvey Dent and police commissioner James Gordon. They are confronted by the charismatic and brutal Joker, who seeks to plunge Gotham into chaos. The Dark Knight Returns, 2012 Genre: action, crime The hero: Jonathan Crane The plot of The Dark Knight Returns takes place eight years after the events of the second part. Batman has disappeared from Gotham, taking responsibility for the death of Harvey Dent. The city is engulfed in corruption, and crime is thriving again. ADVERTISIMENT Dunkirk, 2017 Genre: military, action Hero: A trembling soldier The film is a historical drama that tells the story of the evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk beach during World War II. It is based on real events that took place in 1940, when British, French, Belgian and other Allied troops were surrounded by the Germans during the Battle of France. The film is about the evacuation operation known as the Miracle of Dunkirk, where civilians bravely went to help the troops to save as many lives as possible. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Lucknow, Feb 21 : A 16-year-old girl allegedly ended her life by suicide, a day ahead of her first Board exam for Class 10. The young student was found dead at her residence in the Para area of Lucknow on Tuesday. Her relatives said that despite efforts to save her, she was declared brought dead at the KGMU Trauma Centre. According to additional deputy commissioner of police Vishwajeet Srivastava, the incident came to light when the victim's mother, who is the principal in the same school where her daughter studied, returned home in the evening to find her daughter unconscious. With the help of neighbours, she rushed the girl to a nearby private hospital before transferring her to KGMU. Srivastava said that the girl's father is a bishop. The father expressed his disbelief, describing his daughter as a brilliant student excelling not only academically but also in extracurricular activities. The police further disclosed that the deceased girl was an accomplished swimmer and displayed remarkable prowess in various sports. "We are investigating what made the girl take this drastic step," said the police official. San Francisco, Feb 21 : A U.S. court has found two Chinese nationals guilty of a "sophisticated scheme to defraud Apple out of millions of dollars' worth of iPhones." San Francisco, Feb 21 (IANS) A U.S. court has found two Chinese nationals guilty of a "sophisticated scheme to defraud Apple out of millions of dollarsa worth of iPhones." The scam involved submitting counterfeit iPhones to Apple for repair, which were then replaced with genuine iPhones. Haotian Sun, 33, and Pengfei Xue, 33, were found guilty by a federal jury in the US District Court of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, which carry a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The judge scheduled sentencing for June 21, 2024. Both Chinese nationals received shipments of counterfeit iPhones from Hong Kong between May 2017 and September 2019, returning them to Apple retail shops and Apple Authorised Service Providers with falsified serial numbers and/or IMEI numbers. Over the course of two years, more than 5,000 iPhones were submitted to Apple. "Trial evidence showed that conspirators submitted more than 5,000 inauthentic phones to Apple during the conspiracy, intending to cause a loss of more than $3 million to Apple," the US Attorneyas Office noted. Sun and Xue used various aliases during the scheme. They were arrested on December 5, 2019. SP fails to win over Raja Bhaiya for RS polls in UP. Image Source: IANS News Lucknow, Feb 21 : The Samajwadi Party's efforts to break the ice with former minister Raghuraj Pratap Singh aka Raja Bhaiya and ensure his support for SP in the upcoming Rajya Sabha biennial elections, seems to have been an exercise in futility. Raja Bhaiya, according to sources, is in no mood to switch loyalties from BJP to SP. Raja Bhaiya, who shared a warm rapport with late Mulayam Singh Yadav, has had a tumultuous relationship with Akhilesh Yadav. A minister in the Akhilesh government, Raja Bhaiya had resigned in 2013 after his name figured in the murder of a DSP in his constituency. After the CBI gave him a clean chit, Mulayam Singh Yadav ensured that Raja Bhaiya was brought back into the ministry. However, he finally snapped ties with Akhilesh when the latter allied with BSP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Raja Bhaiya's animosity with BSP leader Mayawati is known across Uttar Pradesh. In 2002, when the BSP was in power in the state, Mayawati had jailed him under Prevention of Terrorist Act (POTA). In 2003, when Mulayam Singh came to power, all charges against Raja Bhaiya were dropped and he was made a cabinet minister in the SP government in 2005. The 2022 assembly polls witnessed a war of words between Akhilesh and Raja Bhaiya when the SP president asked "Who Raja Bhaiya?" On Tuesday evening, Samajwadi state president Naresh Uttam called on Raja Bhaiya to seek his support for the Rajya Sabha polls. He even persuaded Raja Bhaiya to speak to Akhilesh on phone and the latter asked him to let bygones be bygones. Raja Bhaiya confirmed that the meeting had taken place but refused to comment further. "The SP state president visited me but I am not in a position to say anything more than this about the meeting," he said. Sources close to Raja Bhaiya said that the latter would not forget the way the SP had targeted him during the 2022 assembly polls by fielding his own former acolyte, Gulshan Yadav, against him. "Moreover, Raja Bhaiya shares a good relationship with Yogi Adityanath and will not do anything that will spoil their relations," said a source close to the former minister. Raja Bhaiyya heads the Jansatta Dal Loktantrik that has two members in the state assembly. Polling for the Rajya Sabha is due on February 27 and both, BJP and SP are facing the threat of cross voting. The eighth BJP candidate Sanjay Seth is short of eight votes while the SP also needs outside support to ensure the victory of its third candidate. Hyderabad, Feb 21 : Sammakka Sarakka Jatara, a tribal fair, kicked-off in Telangana's Mulugu district as scores of thousands of devotees paid obeisance to tribal deities. Hyderabad, Feb 21 (IANS) Sammakka Sarakka Jatara, a tribal fair, kicked-off in Telanganaas Mulugu district as scores of thousands of devotees paid obeisance to tribal deities. The four-day event got underway with the customary arrival of Sarakka's image from Kannepally village which was placed on a platform in Medaram. The image idol covered in red cloth was brought in a vessel laden with vermilion and turmeric powder. The unique rituals began late Tuesday as the tribal priests huddled into a small temple at Kannepally located four kilometres away from Medaram. They offered prayers for hours invoking goddess onto them before coming out of the temple. The deity was accorded traditional honours by a group of tribal priests and district officials. Over 2 crore people are expected to visit the Jatara over the next one week. Officials said about 50 lakh devotees have already visited Medaram since the last few days. Authorities have made elaborate arrangements for the event. About 14,000 police personnel have been deployed for the smooth conduct of the festival. The arrival of Sarakka signified the official beginning of the largest tribal festival, also known as Medaram Jatara, Braving the crowds who tried to touch the priests carrying Sarakka, the police rope party escorted the priests who virtually sprinted towards the altar at Medaram. Scores of men and women in wet clothes slept across the path wishing the priests to walk over them as they considered it as a good omen. The devotees took a holy dip at Jampanna vagu before proceeding to Kannepalli village. The priests also wade through the stream avoiding the bridge as is their tradition. Believing that a dip in the Jampanna vagu heals all the diseases, people vied with each other to make their way towards the rivulet. The police had difficulty in escorting the tribal priests bringing deity Sarakka everybody tried to touch the priests. Following the custom, the state government officials accompanied the tribal priests all through the way. The full-scale Jatara will begin on Wednesday evening when the tribal priests bring the deity Sammakka from Chilkalgutta hillocks and for one day on Thursday both the deities adorn the altar. It is considered the most auspicious day for the devotees. The idols of Sarakkaa's father Pagidigidda Raju and husband Govinda Raju will also be brought to Medaram. Mulugu District Collector and Superintendent of Police and other officials were overseeing the rituals and smooth conduct of festivities. Devotees, both tribal and non-tribal, from different parts of Telangana and other states like Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka are participating in the four-day fair. Devotees belonging to different states and speaking different languages throng the forests to pay obeisance to tribal goddesses. The unique rituals include devotees offering jaggery to the deities. The TSRTC expects to transport about 50 lakh people operating 6,000 buses while the rest are expected to arrive by scores of private vehicles. The state government has allocated Rs 110 crore for the conduct of the grand event. Various departments have made elaborate arrangements. Police and revenue departments have installed 700 CCTV cameras. The police have also made arrangements for parking of 10 lakh vehicles at 40 places around the village. Adivasis living in forest fringe habitations in several states along the river Godavari congregate once in two years to celebrate the valour of legendary warriors Sammakka and Sarakka. The tribals treat them as goddesses and hail their bravery in trying to protect them. Belonging to the Koya tribe, the mother-daughter duo died while fighting against the Kakatiya Empire about eight centuries ago. The legend is that Sammakka and her daughter Saralamma fought against levy of taxes on tribals during drought conditions by the then Kakatiya rulers. Tribal king Medaraju was ruling the tribal habitations on the banks of river Godavari and was supposed to pay a royalty to the Kakatiya king. However, due to severe prolonged drought, Medaraju failed to pay a royalty. Treating it as defiance, the Kakatiya king invaded the region. Fighting with the Kakatiya army, Medaraju and all kin died. His daughter Sammakka and her daughter Sarakka, also known as Saralamma, too died in the fight. According to local lore, Sammakka who was fatigued went above the Chilukalagutta hillocks and disappeared. The Adivasis who reportedly went in search of her only found a casket of vermilion under a bamboo tree. Once every two years, the tribal priests offer prayers at the bamboo grove and bring a casket of vermilion and bamboo stick wrapped in red cloth symbolising Sammakka, whom they consider their deity. After three days, they take back the deities and leave them in the forest until the next Jatara. The poor tribals offer jaggery of their weight considering it to be gold. They also offer red blouse pieces, vermilion, and turmeric to the deities in large quantities. They take a little part of the same as prasadam from the altar back to their homes. Devotees also take holy dip in Jampanna Vagu, a tributary of Godavari river. Jampanna was the tribal warrior and the son of tribal Goddess Sammakka who was killed in a war with Kakatiya Army. The tribals believe that a dip in the stream washes off their sins. The South Central Railway (SCR) will be operating 30 special train services to meet the pilgrim rush between February 21 and February 24. Special trains are being operated from different places to Warangal station, which is the nearest railway station to reach Medaram. The Tourism Department has introduced helicopter services for pilgrims from Hyderabad. Passengers can avail VIP darshan, including a round trip, at a cost of Rs 28,999 per person. Additionally, an aerial view ride over the fair is priced at Rs 4,800 per individual. According to Tribal Welfare minister Seethakka, President Droupadi Murmu will visit Medaram on February 23. Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will also attend the fair the same day. Jaipur, Feb 21 : Two miscreants, who fled Kerala after conducting a theft of Rs 45 lakh, opened fire on Rajasthan and Kerala Police in Ajmer when the teams were chasing to arrest them. Rajasthan Police has identified the two accused as Danish Khan (23), resident of Haridwar (Uttarakhand) and Shehzad who were absconding in Kerala in connection with the theft case of Rs 45 lakh which was registered against them in Ernakulam district of Kerala. Police said both the accused have been arrested. Ajmer Police Circle Officer Gauri Shankar said that both the accused were absconding after committing theft in Kerala. "Kerala Police got information that both the accused are in Ajmer. Kerala Police with the help of Rajasthan Police started tracing their mobile location and located them near Kamani Gate area. As soon as the teams raided the area, the accused freed themselves and ran away. They fired three rounds at the police," he said. Gauri Shankar said that the police laid siege of the area again and was successful in arresting them but soon a scuffle again broke, injuring a trainee IPS officer. He said that Dargah police station has also registered a case of firing incident which took place in limits of the police station. Gauri Shankar said that further investigation is underway. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Redbird Training Academy has announced the resumption of its operation after the Directorate of General of Civil Aviation in October last year suspended its flight operations for all the bases in the country following two incidents, highlighting safety issues. "We, at Redbird Flight Training, feel immense pride in announcing a successful completion of the recertification process of our maintenance approval and resumption of our flying training operations," it said in a statement. In November last year, the aviation watchdog, DGCA had undertaken a fresh re-certification of "Redbird Training Academy". "Pursuant to two serious incidents in quick succession involving aircraft of Redbird Flight Training Academy Pvt. Ltd. on October 19 and 22, the DGCA carried out a special maintenance audit of the organisation at its main base at Baramati, Maharashtra and four sub-bases at Seoni, Madhya Pradesh Kalburgi (Karnataka), Belgavi (Karnataka) and Lilabari (Assam)" said a DGCA official. "The findings from the special maintenance audit revealed deficiencies in personnel training, maintenance schedules and records, internal audit practices, tool and store management and fuel storage and handling," said the official. "Accordingly, DGCA had initiated enforcement action on Redbird Flight Training Academy and a show cause notice has been issued for the deficiencies. We had reviewed the corrective actions taken by the academy on the findings of the maintenance audit," said the official. The review had indicated that the flying training organisation has failed to continuously adhere to the provisions of Aircraft Rules, 1937 and Civil Aviation Requirements in order to ensure proper maintenance of the aircraft for ensuring continued safe operations. "Accordingly, recertification of the maintenance organisation and continuous airworthiness management of Redbird Flight Training Academy was undertaken afresh by DGCA," the official added. On October 19, 2023, the Tecnam P2008JC single-engine aircraft with the registration VT-RBC took off from runway 11 at Baramati, with its sole occupant, who was the Chief Flying Instructor (CFI), on board. Shortly after reaching an altitude of around 100 feet during the initial climb, the crew encountered an engine-related issue resulting in a loss of power. In response to this unexpected situation, the crew made the decision to abort the flight and executed a crash landing just outside the airport's northern perimeter. On October 22, 2023, another incident involving a Tecnam P2008JC single-engine aircraft, registered as VT-RBT, occurred. This aircraft had two occupants on board, comprising an instructor and a trainee, who were conducting a general flying training sortie at Baramati. While climbing to the assigned altitude of 2500 feet, the aircraft experienced a loss of power. In response to this in-flight issue, the instructor promptly decided to terminate the training sortie and initiated a forced landing in a field located approximately two nautical miles from the airport. The forced landing resulted in the aircraft flipping over, and various components, including the landing gear, propeller, wings, and fuselage, sustained damage. Fortunately, there were no injuries to either of the occupants, demonstrating the effectiveness of the instructor's handling of the emergency situation. New Delhi, Feb 21 : India and China have agreed to maintain "peace" and "tranquility" on the ground in eastern Ladakh during 21st round of Corps Commander level meeting on Chushul-Moldo border. The meeting was held on Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday. The MEA said: "The discussions built on the previous rounds sought complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas. The two sides shared their perspectives on this in the talks held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. "The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. They also committed to maintaining peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas in the interim." According to the defence experts, the two sides agreed to maintain the security and stability on the ground in the Western Sector. The two sides agreed to stay in close contact and maintain dialogue through military and diplomatic channels and work out a mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Lord (Tariq) Ahmad, Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN, and UK's Prime Minister's Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, arrived here on Wednesday. He will lead the UK delegation to the Raisina Dialogue where he will reaffirm the UK's commitment to a "free and open" Indo-Pacific, a region of critical importance to future security and the Prime Minister's priority of growing the UK's economy, a statement by the British High Commission said. "Namaste India. Delighted to return to New Delhi at the invitation of my friend Indian FM @DrSJaishankar to join the Raisina Dialogue on global issues with other Foreign Ministers, business leaders & academics from across the world," he wrote on X. Against a backdrop of an increasingly volatile world, he will say the prosperity and security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific are inseparable, and that the UK is committed to working with partners to play a constructive leadership role in tackling the long-term drivers of conflict. "The UK and our allies are also clear that we will always stand up for freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade." The UK delegation at this year's Raisina Dialogue includes First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sir Ben Key. In addition to his participation at the flagship foreign policy conference, Admiral Key will join a series of high-level meetings with the senior leadership of the Indian armed forces to review progress on various aspects of the UK-India defence partnership and exchange views on global security challenges. During the visit, Lord Ahmad will also mark the second anniversary of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, which has underlined the link between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific through its impact on global energy and food costs. As Russia's war enters its third year, the UK's support for Ukraine is unwavering. Following a plenary with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the minister will meet key counterparts from the government of India, including Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, to highlight the strong UK-India trade partnership and embrace new opportunities to collaborate, including on energy. They will also discuss progress towards an ambitious trade deal, for which there is strong political will on both sides. Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a key pillar of the UK's long-term foreign policy, as part of its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific set out in the Integrated Review Refresh. Lord Ahmad said: "Against a backdrop of rising conflict and instability, the UK's commitment to a 'free and open' Indo-Pacific is enduring. "The UK-India relationship is at the heart of that commitment, which is not just about rhetoric or slogans; it is happening now and is set to improve lives across the UK and the region for years to come." On the margins of the Raisina Dialogue, he will discuss how to ease the desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza with key figures in the Middle East. This follows his travel to the region last week to push for an immediate stop in fighting to allow humanitarian aid in and hostages out and act as a pathway to a sustainable and permanent ceasefire. Chennai, Feb 21 : India's atomic power major Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) will soon connect its second 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) to the grid, an official said on Wednesday, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Gujarat on Thursday to dedicate to the nation the two 700 MW PHWRs at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS). Chennai, Feb 21 (IANS) Indiaas atomic power major Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) will soon connect its second 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) to the grid, an official said on Wednesday, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modias visit to Gujarat on Thursday to dedicate to the nation the two 700 MW PHWRs at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS). While the KAPS-3 has been synchronised with the grid, KAPS-4 will also be connected to the grid soon, an official told IANS on condition of anonymity. With that, both the 700 MW PHWRs will supply power to Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Starting commercial operations in July last year, the countryas first 700 MW PHWR (KAPS-3) generated 3,182 million units till January 2024 and is working at a capacity factor of 88 per cent, NPCIL said. Prime Minister Modi will dedicate to the nation the two units that have been built at an outlay of over Rs.22,500 crore are part of the NPCIL's indigenously-designed and built 16 PHWRs being set up in the country. Two more 700 MW PHWRs are coming up at the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS) in addition to the existing four units of 220 MW, one of 200 MW, and another of 100 MW units. At present, the NPCIL operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7,480 MW, and eight units with a capacity of 6,800 MW are under construction. In addition, 10 more reactors with a total capacity of 7,000 MW are in a pre-project stage. These are expected to be completed progressively by 2031-32, the NPCIL had said. The 10 reactors are: Rajasthan Atomic Power Project Unit 7 and 8 (2x700 MW, PHWRs), Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) Unit 3 and 4 (2x1000 MW, Light Water Reactors) and KKNPP Unit 5 and 6 (2 x 1000 MW, Light Water Reactors) and Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana Unit 1 and 2 (2x700 MW PHWRs). Shimla, Feb 21 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Wednesday welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the verdict of the Himachal Pradesh High Court regarding ownership of Wildflower Hall, a landmark luxury hotel of Oberoi Group on the outskirts of Shimla. Expressing satisfaction on the ruling, the Chief Minister said in a statement that it safeguarded the interests of Himachal Pradesh. Attributing the favorable decision to the efforts undertaken by the state government in advocating its case effectively, Sukhu said, "Renowned lawyer Mukul Rohatgi was engaged to ensure comprehensive representation and safeguard state's interests in the legal battle. "The outcome of this verdict reflects the government's steadfast dedication to protect the interests of Himachal Pradesh." The Oberoi Group had held possession of the prestigious property for last many years, and now the Supreme Court has ordered them to vacate it within a year. The government will deliberate on the future course of action regarding the property, once it gets the possession, emphasising a decision that aligns with the best interests of Himachal, said the Chief Minister. Last month, the Himachal Pradesh High Court asked the Oberoi Group to surrender possession of the five-star hotel to the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) within two months. The government, a stakeholder in the hotel, has suspected financial wrongdoing in the management of the heritage hotel that has been running into losses since March 2001. Wildflower Hall, sought-after by high-end tourists and celebrities, is a joint venture of Mashobra Resorts, the Oberoi Group company that runs the hotel, and the state government. It has long been under litigation between the two partners. Disposing of the government's petition, the High Court on January 6 directed the East India Hotels (EIH) Ltd to vacate and ensure peaceful handover of the entire property of Wildflower Hall within two months. "It is held that the EIH Ltd has failed to comply with the terms of award within the period of three months from the date it attained finality, i.e. October, 13, 2022," it said, observing the Oberoi Group had failed to comply with the arbitration award within the stipulated time limit of three months. South Korea is tightening export controls on dual-use goods sent to Russia and Belarus and banning 682 items from being shipped to these countries. These are items that are actually or potentially used for military purposes. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by Yonhap. It is noted that: the changes will come into force on February 24; the total number of goods prohibited for sale to Russia and Belarus will increase to 1,159 items. However, there is still a loophole for supplies. The fact is that the Korean government allows for "exceptional cases" of the need to supply banned goods and will consider each of them separately. What was banned from supplying to Russia and Belarus In general, the goods banned from supplying to Russia and Belarus include heavy construction equipment and batteries like: aircraft components and machinery; used cars with engines of 2,000 cubic centimeters or more, which account for the vast majority of South Korean car exports to Russia. EU outlines the term of sanctions against Russia At the same time, the Council of the European Union extended sanctions against Russia for the occupation of part of Ukraine. Now they will be in effect for at least 1 more year, until February 24, 2025. According to the decision, not only new rounds of prolongation of restrictions but also their strengthening are not excluded in the future. ADVERTISIMENT "As long as the unlawful actions of the Russian Federation continue to violate the prohibition on the use of force, which is a serious violation of international law, it is appropriate to maintain all measures introduced by the Union and to take additional ones, if necessary. ...This decision applies until February 24, 2025," the document says. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Feb 21 : Banning the sale of menthol cigarettes would likely lead to a lot of people quitting smoking, a new study said on Wednesday. Menthol cigarettes are a major public health concern since studies have shown that the cooling properties of menthol mask the harshness of cigarettes, making it easier for young people to start smoking, according to the study published in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research. Earlier research has also found that menthol in cigarettes makes it easier for smokers to absorb nicotine, which results in greater dependence. Menthol smokers also found it harder to quit smoking compared to those who smoke non-menthol cigarettes. According to the researchers, prevalence rates of menthol cigarette use among cigarette smokers vary globally. About 7.4 per cent of smokers in Europe use menthol cigarettes. In the US, however, some 43.4 per cent of adult smokers used menthol cigarettes in 2020. Menthol cigarettes are disproportionately used by young people, racial/ethnic minorities, and lower-income smokers, according to the study. More than 170 US cities and two states, several countries such as Canada, Ethiopia, and the European Union have banned the sale of menthol cigarettes. To determine how menthol bans change smoking behaviour, investigators conducted a systematic search of English-language studies published up to November 2022 (using PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Embase). The results showed that while 50 per cent of menthol smokers switched to smoking non-menthol cigarettes, almost a quarter (24 per cent) of menthol cigarette smokers quit smoking altogether after a menthol ban. About 12 per cent switched to other flavoured tobacco products, and 24 per cent continued smoking menthol cigarettes. New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Delhi High Court has granted one month's parole to Vijay Dahiya, a murder convict serving a life sentence, to accompany his son for his Board examinations. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma stressed the importance of parental involvement in a child's education and recognised Dahiya's commitment to his parental responsibilities. The judge stressed the need to balance the interests of the state with the inherent responsibility of parents towards their children and their academic pursuits. Considering Dahiya's previous record of not misusing interim bail or furlough, the court deemed it appropriate to grant him parole for the specified period. "...this Court is inclined to grant parole to the petitioner for a period of one month from the date of his release," the judge said. Dahiya, who has been confined in Tihar Jail since his conviction in a murder case in 2018, had appealed against his conviction, which was dismissed by the High Court last year. Despite previous judicial orders directing authorities to consider his parole application, Dahiya's plea had not been decided. In his petition, Dahiya stated the urgency of his son's board exams, scheduled from February 21 to March 13, and the need for his presence to accompany his son to the examination centre. Acknowledging the merit of Dahiya's plea, the court concluded that his presence for his son's exams is both reasonable and in the best interest of the child's welfare. "...after careful consideration of the facts and circumstances, the court is of the opinion that the presence of the petitioner to accompany his son for his Board examinations is both reasonable and in the best interest of the child's welfare," the court said. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Renowned Italian painter Francesca Amalia Grimaldi will exhibit her latest set of works in the national capital on February 23, sharing her take on the identities and ruminations as a woman artist in a contemporary urban world. The four-day exhibition (February 24-27) titled 'Metamorphosis' at LTC, Bikaner House features Francesca's reflections on India, following her year-long stay in the country. Uma Nair is the curator of the event organised by Delhi-based Masha Art. Florence-based Francesca is a trained geologist whose paintings have been on public display for three-and-a-half decades now. The upcoming show will feature a series of abstract studies created in the mould of modern intensities and expression. The paintings and collages, a total of 32, are done in mixed media and acrylic-on-canvas pastels. The show will be inaugurated on February 23 evening (Friday, 6 p.m.) by the Italian Ambassador in India Vincenzo De Luca and art historian and author Aman Nath, founder of Neemrana Hotels. Francesca, a landscapist-turned-abstractionist, formally studied the Classics and has a degree in geological sciences, from which she draws her deep passion for the history of art while also finding inspiration from nature. Having created ripples in her native country, she will now showcase what she created between 2020 and 2024, after living in India for a year now and appreciating its cultural fabric. The artist recalls her initial artistic creations were deeply influenced by works with a predominantly figurative character. Her love for landscape painting often stems from a desire to capture the essence of a place and the beauty that surrounds us. "Landscape painting allows me to express their deep connection with the environment and convey their emotional responses to the natural world," she says. Curator Uma Nair notes that the paintings in Metamorphosis abandon figurative themes and focus on the new frontiers of the abstract. These works let the shapes, lines and colour dominate in a bid to reach the manifestation of internal emotions, she notes. "This is done by making use of a language characterised by a contracted drawing synthesis and a great chromatic value," the curator adds about Francesca, whose works can be found in private collections in Italy and abroad. To famed Italian critics, Francesca's works on the subject of the world and her inner rumination, as she faces life in all its many shades and shadows of travels and life's leanings. 'Metamorphosis', though, deviates from her course with its abstract studies created in the mould of modern intensities and expression. The paintings in the exhibition are those of deepened depths of abstract tenor and an understanding of atmospherics beginning with a Goan landscape, an abstract study titled 'Under the Sea' and a diptych named 'For War'. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 21 : A 54-year-old Russian tourist, who went into the sea and collapsed, has died in a hospital in Kerala on Wednesday. The local police said the woman along with another person ventured into the sea at Edava near Varkala. According to the locals, the tourist had suddenly collapsed, after which she was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she breathed her last. "We have started our probe and asked the officials at the resort where the woman was staying to report before us. Only a probe will reveal what exactly happened," said a police official. Varkala located about 50 kms from the state capital city is a hugely popular beach destination, especially among the foreign tourists. From Shahid-Mira to Sara, Ananya: Celebs in Goa for Rakul-Jackky nuptials. Image Source: IANS News Mumbai, Feb 21 : As the wedding ceremony of the Bollywood couple Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani inches closer, several celebrities from the Hindi film industry were seen arriving at the Goa airport on Wednesday. Shahid Kapoor was the first to arrive with his wife Mira Rajput. The actor, who is getting a lot of positivity for his latest release 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya', sported a dapper look with a white T-shirt, matching jacket and blue denims. He rounded off his looks with round black sunglasses. Mira looked beautiful in a breezy white and green floral co-ord set. She kept her hair open, used minimal makeup, and accessorised the look with black square-shaped sunglasses, and a big brown handbag. Ananya Panday, who delivered a creditable performance in the streaming movie 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan', arrived with her rumoured boyfriend Aditya Roy Kapur. The diva was sporting a casual, no-frills look -- white tank top, beige shorts, matching long shirt and pair of brown slippers. She opted for a no-makeup look, and kept her hair open. Aditya stole the hearts of the onlookers with his looks -- he wore a white half-sleeved T-shirt, brown joggers, black sneakers, cap and sunglasses. The soon-to-be parents -- Varun Dhawan and his wife Natasha Dalal (plus a much visible baby bump) arrived in style at the airport. The actore opted for a tye-and-dye pink and orange jacket, white tee-shirt and blue denims. Natasha wore a neon-green dress and paired it with a white-and-black striped shrug. Sara Ali Khan opted for a chic and sporty look -- black leather jacket, blue straight denims, and white sneakers. She rounded off the look with a black sling back, OG sunglasses, and kept her hair open. She was carrying her cuppa in her hand. Rakul and Jackky are set to have two wedding ceremonies on Wednesday. The first will be a Sikh wedding with Anand Karaj, and the second will be a Sindhi-style ceremony, reflecting both Rakul and Jackky's respective parentage. Damascus, Feb 21 : Two people were killed and another injured on Wednesday in an Israeli missile strike on a residential building here, the Syrian Defence Ministry said. The Israeli army launched an aerial attack around 9:40 a.m. (0640 GMT) with several missiles targeting a residential building near the Cham City Center shopping mall and an Iranian school in the Kafar Sousah neighborhood, the ministry said in a statement, Xinhua news agency reported. The attack also caused material damage to the targeted building and some adjacent buildings, the ministry added. New Delhi/Hyderabad, Feb 21 : Condolences poured in from the political and legal fraternity after the death of former Additional Solicitor General of India and senior advocate of the Supreme Court, Fali S Nariman in the national Capital on Wednesday, at the age of 95. Nariman's funeral will take place at 10 am on Thursday at the Parsi Aramgah in Khan Market area and will be followed by a prayer meeting at 4 pm at the Parsi Anjuman Dharamsala at Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg. The eminent jurist is survived by his son and former judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Rohinton F Nariman and his daughter Anaheeta F Nariman. As the news of Nariman's demise spread, President Droupadi Murmu took to social media to pay her respects to the legal titan. "I am saddened to learn that Fali Nariman, a titan among legal luminaries, is no more. Among the wisest experts on our Constitution, he was also a globally respected jurist. He served the nation in various roles, including as a member of the Rajya Sabha, with equal dedication. His contributions in enriching constitutional practices and strengthening the legal system will be remembered for long. My condolences to his family, colleagues, and admirers," President Murmu posted on X. Condoling the legal stalwart's death Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X, that Nariman devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. PM Modi wrote on his X handle, "Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace." Regretting that a powerful voice of law had fallen silent, Union Home Minister Amit Shah posted on X, "Saddened to learn about the passing away of Shri Fali S Nariman Ji. A trailblazing luminary, Nariman Ji's profound knowledge of the law and keen intellect served as the guiding light for our judicial system. With his passing, a powerful voice of law fell silent today. My thoughts are with his family, friends and followers. Om Shanti." Mourning Nariman's demise, Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud said, "We really mourn the sad demise of Fali Nariman. He was a great giant of law and an intellectual. It's very sad." The Congress party also expressed its regrets over Nariman's demise. In a post on X, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said the death of an eminent jurist, senior advocate and a fierce votary of constitutional civil liberties, Nariman, was a huge loss to the legal system. Senior leader Rahul Gandhi said Nariman's contributions inspired generations of jurists to uphold the sanctity of the Constitution and civil liberties. The former Congress chief said, "Fali S Nariman's demise leaves a profound void in the legal community. His contributions have not only shaped landmark cases, but have also inspired generations of jurists to uphold the sanctity of our Constitution and civil liberties." In a post on X, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi called Nariman a living legend who will forever be in the hearts and minds of those in law and public life. "Above all his diverse achievements, he stuck to his principles unwaveringly & called a spade a spade, a quality shared by his brilliant son. An end of an era", Singhvi wrote. Leaders from South India, too, mourned the passing of the eminent jurist with Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and his Andhra Pradesh counterpart YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressing grief and conveying their sympathies to the members of the bereaved family. IANS rad/ms/rad New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the seven suspended Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) MLAs to meet the Assembly Speaker after Lt Governor accepted their apology. The court on Tuesday had asked the MLAs -- Mohan Singh Bisht, Ajay Mahawar, O.P. Sharma, Abhay Verma, Anil Vajpayi, Jitender Mahajan, and Vijender Gupta -- if they are willing to tender an apology to the Lt Governor. On Wednesday, counsel for the MLAs informed the court that they had sent a letter of apology to the Lt Governor, which was accepted, and a copy of the letter was also forwarded to the Speaker via email. The seven BJP MLAs moved the high court on Monday challenging their suspension for the remainder of the Budget session of the Assembly, saying it was maliciously engineered to disable the opposition members from participating in the discussions. The members were suspended for allegedly interrupting the Lt Governor's address, highlighting AAP government achievements on February 15. During the hearing, the MLAs' counsel expressed concerns about their continued suspension and contested recent political comments and messages, indicating a potentially contentious environment. Despite these concerns, Justice Subramonium Prasad urged the MLAs to meet the Speaker to address the matter directly. Noting that the court's role is to uphold the law and that any resolution should be sought outside of political considerations, he encouraged the MLAs to engage in dialogue with the Speaker to resolve the issue amicably. The court clarified that it is not interested in the nature of the meeting or its outcome, reaffirming its commitment to impartiality and adherence to legal principles. Senior advocate Sudhir Nandrajog, representing the Assembly, suggested that the MLAs should present the letter of apology during the meeting with the Speaker. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on Thursday. Nandrajog had, on Tuesday, mentioned the non-political nature of the matter, stressing its significance in upholding the dignity of the Lt Governor's office. He had referenced a similar approach taken in the Supreme Court regarding MP Raghav Chadha's case, suggesting that a resolution could be reached through apology. As senior advocate Jayant Mehta, representing the MLAs, had expressed openness to apologising to the Lt Governor, Justice Prasad had asked the petitionersa counsel to come back with instructions. Mehta had, on Monday, argued that the suspension is unconstitutional and contrary to rules, affecting their right to participate in proceedings. "This was maliciously engineered to disable the opposition members to participate in the discussions on crucial businesses that were to be discussed and to also exclude them, albeit unconstitutionally, from participating in the budget session of the House," their plea said, adding the move was grossly unconstitutional and even contrary to Rules of Business of the House. Mehta had said that the motion to suspend them was excessive, advocating a maximum three-day suspension instead of an indefinite one. AAP MLA Dilip Pandey initiated the resolution for suspension in the House, which Speaker Ram Niwas Goel accepted. The matter was also forwarded to the Privileges Committee. The suspended MLAs, except Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, were barred from Assembly proceedings until the committee's report is received. --IANS spr/vd New Delhi, Feb 21 : Twenty-three lakh Indian diaspora are reinforcing New Delhi-Ottawa relations and contributing to the development of both nations, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh said as he met a high-level delegation on Wednesday. Singh told Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan province who was leading the delegation, that the presence of the Indian diaspora in the Canadian Parliament and the cabinet is a testimony of longstanding relations between the two countries. Acknowledging the positive contributions made by the Indian community, the minister said they act as a bridge between the two nations as Canada is one of the most favoured destinations for Indian students for higher education. Singh also mentioned PM Narendra Modias invitation to Indiaas diaspora to do research in Indiaas premier institutions and contribute to its progress under the VAIBHAV fellowship programme. Cooperation and collaboration in areas like Electric Vehicles, Cyber Physical System, Quantum Technologies, Future Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen Fuel, Deep Ocean Mining etc were also discussed, a Ministry of Science & technology release stated. He told the delegation that under Prime Minister Narendra Modias leadership, India established the aAnusandhana National Research Foundation. The foundation prioritises research in areas of technology and science to foster and revitalise the innovation ecosystem with around 60-70 per cent participation of the private sector. He also emphasised that the government is keen on opening arms to welcome non-governmental organisations to contribute to technology development and support them. The meeting comes as India is keen to develop research collaborations with Canadian R&D institutions and technology collaborations with Canadian industries. Speaking of Canada and India relations, Moe said it has made great strides in recent years and has become truly multidimensional, spurred by a significant convergence of interests, mutual goodwill, and exchanges. He said the relationship has grown between India and Saskatchewan, especially after opening their office in Delhi, and strengthens their resolve to work with India and achieve collective growth. After arriving in New Delhi on Tuesday, Moe met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar who praised the Indians in Canada for serving as a bridge between the two nations. "Appreciate @PremierScottMoeas strong support for our partnership and looking forward to deepening our cooperation," Jaishankar said as he also shared a picture of the two leaders shaking hands. "An important supplier of potash, lentils, and uranium. Saskatchewanas Indian-origin community has truly been a bridge between us," he added. Saskatchewan is home to 15,660 Indians, according to the 2021 census, and from 2016 to 2021, immigrants from India made up 18.4 per cent of total immigrants moving into the province. The province's exports to India stand at more than $1 billion and roughly make up a third of Canada's total exports to the country. In addition, the province also has a trade and investment office in New Delhi. Bengaluru, Feb 21 : The Karnataka Police booked an FIR on Wednesday in connection with the case of contact number and family pictures of the mother of a girl student, who raised her voice against the alleged insult to Hindu Gods at a private school in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district, were "made viral" on social media. The Mangaluru police claimed that they were seeking consultation from legal experts before registering the complaint and take up the probe. Sources in the police department said that they were awaiting response from the legal experts on the audio clip submitted by the victim woman in this regard. However, some Hindu activists claimed that the police were awaiting the orders from the Congress government's top brass on handling the case. The victim, a school teacher, approached the Kankanady police station in Mangaluru on Tuesday seeking protection as she was "getting threat calls from Qatar, Dubai, Saudi Arabia and some other countries". She purportedly also received abusive audio clips for raising the issue. The complainant said that she is continuously getting threat calls since February 15. "In the social media post which is made viral, I have been solely blamed for the whole episode resulting in protest against the school in Mangaluru. I have been tortured for speaking in front of the media and raising the issue of humiliation of Hindu Gods at the school," she stated. "My daughter is studying in seventh standard in the school. The teacher should not have made comments on the Godhra incident and was not required to speak demeaningly on Lord Sri Ram. The teacher had asked whether Lord Ram would come and sit in the stone idol," the woman said. Meanwhile, the management of the Sebastian School, where the woman worked as a teacher, has sacked her for giving statements to the media over the issue. The alleged incident took place at St. Gerosa Higher Primary School near Jeppu in Mangaluru recently. A teacher, identified as Sister Prabha, had allegedly made derogatory remarks against Hindu Gods during a moral science class. The incident came to light after an audio clip made by a parent and addressed to a VHP leader went viral on social media, leading to protests. The protest was led by BJP MLA D. Vedavyas Kamath, who reportedly pulled up the school management and the concerned teacher for 'humiliating' Hindu Gods. Following the incident, the school management sacked Sister Prabha. Last Thursday, Karnataka Police had filed an FIR against Kamath and Mangaluru City North MLA Y. Bharat Shetty in connection with a protest staged to condemn the alleged incident of "humiliation of Hindu Gods" at the school. Police also booked VHP leader Sharan Pumpwell, and Hindu activists Sandeep Garodi and Bharat Kumar. The issue was raised in the Assembly by the BJP resulting in heated arguments between the ruling Congress government and BJP legislators. The Congress had said that the BJP legislators had provoked the students, disturbed law and order, and a police investigation was required. The aggressor country, the Russian Federation, has already fired at the territory of Kyiv region with a new 3M22 Zircon anti-ship missile twice. The wreckage of the second missile was found near Vyshneve. ADVERTISIMENT This was said by Oleksandr Ruvin, Director of Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise, Vechirnii Kyiv media outlet reports. Currently, experts continue to study the wreckage of the Russian "forward" weapon. "First of all, this 3M22 Zircon anti-ship missile does not fly at a speed of Mach 8-9 (about 10 thousand kilometers per hour), as the Russians claim. According to the relevant services, the missile only reaches 2500 kilometers per hour in the final section of the flight. Second, there are serious doubts about its accuracy. The missiles were hit by air defense and did not reach their targets. One fell in the Dnipro district, creating a large crater. The other landed in a field in the town of Vyshneve near Kyiv. Civilian infrastructure and civilians were damaged," Ruvin emphasized. ADVERTISIMENT The expert added that currently, experts do not see the destructive power that an anti-ship missile with almost 400 kilograms of explosives should have. He reminded that Zircon was developed primarily as a weapon against aircraft carriers, which are very difficult to sink. However, it is unlikely that this missile will cope with its intended purpose. "That is, another Russian "forward" missile, the Zircon, which was adopted in Russia in 2023, was not unique at all, just like their Kinzhal. The new "miracle weapon" failed to frighten Ukraine and its allies. We are continuing to examine the remains of this anti-ship missile and finding out its components. So far, we are investigating only two cases of enemy use of Zircon," Ruvin summarized. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Bhubaneswar, Feb 21 : A servitor has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman tourist at the well-known Shree Lingaraj Temple here, the police said on Wednesday. The 22-year-old accused servitor was identified as Kanan Mohapatra a.k.a. Kundu, a resident of Old Town area. "The 28-year-old woman tourist from Sweden had come to have a darshan of Lord Lingaraj on Monday afternoon. Due to the prohibition of entry of foreigners into the shrine, the accused assured the victim to help her get a glimpse of the 11th century shrine from the Lord Curzon Mandap, an elevated viewing tower adjacent to the boundary wall of Lingaraj Temple, at the northern gate of the temple. "Accordingly, she went with the accused towards the north gate. Meanwhile, the accused reportedly sexually assaulted the woman and also misbehaved with her at the northern gate," a police officer said. Based on the complaint of the victim, police lodged a case against Mohapatra under sections 341, 354 and 354 (A) of the IPC and arrested him on Tuesday. He was later presented in court, which sent him to 14-day judicial custody. Chennai, Feb 21 : Tamil Nadu Environment Minister Siva V. Meyyanathan said on the floor of the Assembly on Wednesday that Coromandel International Ltd, a fertiliser manufacturing unit in Ennore, Chennai, which was shut down on December 26, 2023 following leakage of ammonia gas that left nearly 50 hospitalisted, is willing to pay a compensation of Rs 5.92 crore. Replying to a special calling attention motion moved by the members of the opposition, who demanded closure of the fertiliser manufacturing unit, Meyyanathan also said that the next step in the matter will be taken only after all security measures are put in place. It may be noted that Tamil Nadu Congress President K. Selvaperunthugai , T. Velmurugan (TVK), K. Murugan (CPI) and VCK member S.S. Balaji have demanded permanent closure of the plant, claiming that it was causing damage to the environment, besides being a health hazard to the people. The Environment Minister told the Assembly that the company has announced its willingness to pay compensation after the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) sent a notice to the factory seeking compensation. He also said that a seven-member expert committee was constituted to study the gas leak and ensure that all safety measures are in place. The committee has recommended a new pipeline with an automatic tripping system, and an automatic interlocking system, as well as regular safety audits. Jalna : , Feb 21 (IANS) A day after the Maharashtra Government proposed to give 10 per cent reservation in education and government jobs, a miffed and unrelenting Shivba Sanghatana leader Manoj Jarange-Patil on Wednesday announced a fresh statewide agitation from February 24. Speaking to the media at his village Antaravali-Sarati on Wednesday afternoon, Jarange-Patil claimed that the government had given quotas to the Marathas but "not as required by the community" and that was "not acceptable." On the 12th day of his indefinite hunger strike, Jarange-Patil reiterated his original demand to declare the Marathas as 'Kunbis' (falling in the OBC category) and grant them separate quotas from the OBCs, plus the formal notification of the 'Sage-Soyare' (family bloodline). "The government has not given what we demanded. The Special Session of Legislature was held for political reasons ahead of the elections. We have to safeguard the interests of the Marathas. They have given us the motorcycle but no petrol, so it's not acceptable to us," he declared. In order to compel the government to concede to the demands, Jarange-Patil announced a Maharashtra-wide peaceful agitation starting from February 24. This will include daily roadblocks from 10.30 am-1 pm, and again from 4-7 pm, to avoid inconveniencing the students writing their HSC exams. The stir will also include processions and demonstrations in all villages, towns and cities. He also appealed to senior Marathas to join in hunger strikes in their villages but warned that "if any aged Maratha is sacrificed to the cause, the government would be held responsible." Calling for a boycott, Jarange-Patil urged Marathas in all villages not to allow political leaders to enter their territories and to stop or confiscate election campaign vehicles outside the villages. He demanded that the government "should not hold elections till the Maratha quotas are given as per our demands." While appealing to the Marathas to ensure peaceful agitation, the Shivba Sanghatana chief also cautioned,"If the government or police harass our youth, then they would face the repercussions." Meanwhile, in a surprise development, a person named Ajay Maharaj Baraskar launched a scathing attack on Jarange-Patil, accusing him of "destroying the Marathas' cause and ruining many families by his ill-conceived agitation that has been dragging on for the early seven months." "He has no brains, is just a publicity-seeker, uses abusive language towards one and all, is arrogant and adamant, he insults many people He wants Marathas to be declared as OBCs, how can this be possible? Who asked him to launch this agitation or sit on an indefinite hunger strike," fumed Baraskar. New Delhi, Feb 21 : During his interaction at Parliament House on Wednesday with Indian and foreign students of Nalanda University, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar urged them to be trustees of peace, progress and sustainable development. Apart from India, the delegation from Nalanda University comprised students from 11 different countries that included Bhutan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, Nepal, Argentina, Kenya, Thailand and Uganda. Students from several countries have joined Nalanda University that was a world famous university in ancient times, and has been rebuilt. During his interaction with the students, the Vice President recalled his visit to Nalanda University on September 29, 2023 during his maiden visit to Bihar. VP Dhankhar reflected upon the history of Nalanda and the apowerful branda it exemplified and encouraged students to take its legacy to greater heights. Three faculty members of Nalanda University, Dr. BC Ambika Prasad Pani, Dr. Pooja Dabral and Dr. Tosabanta Padhan, accompanied the delegation of 23 students. Bengaluru, Feb 21 : BJP and JD-S members of the Karnataka Legislative Council staged a walk out on Wednesday protesting against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the floor of the House. Kota Srinivas Poojary, Leader of Opposition in the Council objected to the remarks made by the CM while speaking on the Governor's Speech. Poojary demanded that he too should be given an opportunity to speak in the House and reply to the CM's speech. "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has spoken continuously for three hours over the Governor's speech and is answering questions in this regard. He has also spoken about the central government. This is an election campaign speech. In his entire speech, CM Siddaramaiah has targeted PM Modi and the central government. If I am not allowed to speak, the people would get the wrong message," Poojary stated. The Congress members objected to Poojary's demand and supported CM Siddaramaiah. They also raised slogans like "Our tax our right" and "BJP is against Kannada people." Members of the BJP in turn raised slogans against the Congress Government and staged a walkout. CM Siddaramaiah took a jab at the BJP saying that Congressmen were the true nationalists as they fought for the freedom of the country and became martyrs and went to jail. "Are the Jan Sangh and the BJP Parivar which never took part in the freedom struggle, nationalists?" the CM questioned. "Those who were jailed, martyred, tortured by the British for the freedom of the country were Congressmen. There is no history of freedom struggle in the BJP. There is no history of them fighting for the country. After the country got freedom from our struggle, now they are claiming to be nationalists. But the history of India has recorded who the real nationalists are," he said. Kolkata, Feb 21 : The Basirhat district police on Wednesday registered a second case of rape against Shibu Hazra, a local Trinamool Congress leader arrested from the trouble-torn Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. The fresh case has been registered following a 'secret' statement made by an alleged victim woman from Sandeshkhali before a judicial magistrate at the Basirhat sub-divisional court. Hazra was arrested by the Basirhat district police on February 17 from a hideout in Sandeshkhali, hours after the police registered cases under charges of rape and attempt to murder against him and another key accused, Uttam Sardar, who was also arrested last week. Hazra was the Trinamool block president of Sandeshkhali-II block. Hazra was absconding ever since the women in Sandeshkhali started protesting against local Trinamool leaders, accusing them of sexual harassment and rape. Recently, the protesting women even burnt down the farmhouse and a poultry farm owned by Hazra. However, Sheikh Shahjahan, the political mentor of Hazra and Sardar who's also the accused mastermind behind the attack on ED and CAPF personnel last month, is absconding ever since the day of the attack on January 5. On Tuesday, Calcutta High Court's Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam had expressed anguish over Shahjahan absconding for such a long time, saying that either he has gone beyond the reach of the state police, or he is under some kind of protection. Quetta, Feb 21 : Widespread protests persisted against alleged poll rigging in Quetta and other regions of Balochistan, marking a significant escalation in unrest, a media report said. The four-party alliance comprising Baloch, Pashtun and Hazara nationalist parties has been on a sit-in outside the deputy commissioner's office in Quetta, denouncing the purported election irregularities, The Express Tribune reported. "We refuse to relent until our demands are addressed," declared Haji Atta Muhammad Bangulzai, a prominent leader of the National Party (NP), who claims victory in a provincial Assembly seat from the Sariab Road Quetta constituency. Notably, women are actively participating in the protest, underscoring the widespread discontent among the people. The alliance, consisting of Balochistan National Party (Mengal), Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), National Party (NP), and Hazara Democratic Party (HDP), has issued ultimatums to the Election Commission of Pakistan and returning officers across the province, warning of intensified protests if their demands are not met, The Express Tribune reported. The protests, going on since February 9, have brought Balochistan to a virtual standstill, as major highways remain blocked, underscoring the deep-seated frustration and discontent among the populace regarding the integrity of the electoral process, the report said. On February 15, at least two persons were killed and around a dozen were injured during an exchange of fire between two rival political groups in the Hub city of Balochistan, as the police failed to bring the situation under control. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Power sector giant NTPC has signed a land lease agreement for the development of a world-class "Integrated Green Hydrogen Hub" on a 1,200-acre plot at Pudimadaka village near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the Ministry of Power announced on Wednesday. New Delhi, Feb 21 (IANS) Power sector giant NTPC has signed a land lease agreement for the development of a world-class "Integrated Green Hydrogen Hub" on a 1,200-acre plot at Pudimadaka village near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the Ministry of Power announced on Wednesday. The agreement was signed between NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) and Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) on Feb 20. The project includes construction of India's largest green hydrogen production facility (1,200 tons per day), which will enable further conversion of green hydrogen to derivatives such as green ammonia and green methanol, primarily catering to various export markets. The Pudimadaka Green Hydrogen Hub aims to create an ecosystem for technologies in the new energy paradigm, such as electrolyser and fuel cell manufacturing, related ancillary industries, and start-up, incubation, testing facilities, production and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives such as green ammonia and green methanol, according to the official statement. The land lease deed was exchanged between Chief General Manager, NGEL, Sivakumar V. V. and Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, APIIC, Pravin Kumar at Andhra Pradesh government's secretariat in Amravati. --IANS sps/dan iCreate, Microsoft, IT Ministry to skill 11K innovators, startups in AI in India. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Feb 21 : Microsoft India and iCreate (the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology) will provide AI skilling opportunities to 11,000 innovators, startups, and youth from across the country via Microsoft's learning management system, it was announced on Wednesday. On completion, the participants will receive globally recognised certifications from Microsoft, providing a boost to their employability and career progression. The announcement was made at the launch of aiMPEL-AIa (iCreate-Microsoft programme for Emerging Leaders in Artificial Intelligence) by Microsoft India, iCreate and Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY). The programme will screen 1,100 AI innovators across India to become AI amost valuable playersa (MVPs) and focus on priority themes of healthcare, financial inclusion, sustainability, education, agriculture and smart cities. In the second stage, the programme will select and scale 100 startups across the country to build with Azure OpenAI. "The iMPEL-AI programme is carefully designed to foster AI innovation and product development with access to both mentorship and technology infrastructure that are needed by Indian innovators to build globally successful AI ventures," said Avinash Punekar, CEO of iCreate. Jean-Philippe Courtois, EVP and President, National Transformation Partnerships, Microsoft said that India is uniquely positioned to seize the extraordinary AI opportunity. "We are already seeing incredible value from AI innovation in India, from supporting farmers with digital chatbots to transforming economic opportunities for underserved communities through translation tools," he said. iCreate will collaborate with leading institutions and incubators in tier 2, 3 and 4 cities in order to democratise AI innovation in the country. The Northeast region and its innovators will receive a fillip through this programme through targeted bootcamps and AI-driven problem-solving initiatives to support grassroot innovators. "We believe that partnerships are the way to accelerate the growth of our innovation ecosystem. The government is committed to shaping, nurturing, and catalysing the future of safe and trusted AI," said Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT. Ahmedabad-based iCreate is a leading institution for transforming startups based on tech innovation into successful businesses. New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for integration of futuristic weapons and sensors in the Tejas, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). In a statement on Wednesday, the Defence Ministry said that there is a continuous need of upgrading the weapons and sensors suite of the aircraft in the present war scenario and towards this, ADA has initiated the know-how transfer for the integration of weapons and sensors to SDI. "This will facilitate the IAF to independently carry out sensors, weapon integration and flight testing to enhance the operational capabililty of Tejas-LCA fighter," the ministry said. According to the statement, the ADA has successfully developed and type certified Tejas-LCA with a credit of more than 10,000 sorties of incident free flying. The IAF has already formed two squadrons of the fighter aircraft and twin-seater aircraft are also being inducted. The ADA under the Department of Defence Research and Development is mandated to design and develop Tejas-LCA and its variants. The MoU was signed by Prabhulla Chandran V.K., Technology Director (Avionics and Weapon Systems) of ADA and Air Vice Marshal K.N. Santosh VSM, Commandant, Software Development Institute (SDI) of IAF. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to the leaders of Poland and the European Union over the protests and blocking of checkpoints between Ukraine and Poland by a group of Poles. The Ukrainian president proposed to hold talks directly at the border and resolve all misunderstandings once and for all. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated in a message on Zelensky's Telegram channel. A delegation from the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers will be waiting for Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Polish President Andrzej Duda at the Ukrainian-Polish border in the coming days, until February 24. Zelensky reacted to the events on the Ukrainian-Polish border, where a group of Polish "farmers" blocked truck traffic and poured grain harvested by Ukrainians in mined fields and under fire onto the ground. In his address to the Poles, the President of Ukraine asked them to recall the meaning of the word "solidarity." "I want to appeal to everyone who remembers what the full meaning of the word 'solidarity' means. A word that changed the history of our entire Europe for the better. It did. And in many ways it still is. But we also see excessive and unfair politicization now, which can make common achievements start to crumble," the President noted. ADVERTISIMENT He called on Tusk and Duda to put an end to the situation that created tension between the two neighboring countries. According to Zelenskyy, this should be done where this tension began to spread: on the border between Ukraine and Poland. "I have instructed our government to be at the border between our countries as soon as possible, by February 24. And I ask you, Donald, Mr. Prime Minister, to come to the border as well. And Andrzej, Mr. President, I ask you to support this dialog. This is national security. We must not delay this. The next few days give us a chance to do this. I am also ready to be at the border with our government," Zelenskyy said to his Polish counterpart and the head of the Polish government. At the same time, the Ukrainian president also addressed the European Commission. ADVERTISIMENT "And I want to appeal now to the European Commission: we must preserve unity in Europe. This is a fundamental interest of the European Union. That is why Ukraine is appealing to the European Commission to have a representative of the European Commission take part in this meeting. Enough of Moscow on our lands. Enough of misunderstandings," the head of state summarized. Zelenskyy's post was duplicated in Polish, and his appeal to the Poles has Polish subtitles, so that the content of the Ukrainian president's appeal reaches the addressees without distortion and speculation, and the message contained in it is perceived as it was originally intended. As reported by OBOZ.UA, as of February 20, Polish protesters are blocking not only the passage of trucks. Now they are not allowing buses and cars to cross the border between Poland and Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine responded to the blockade, noting that such actions by friendly Poland are unjustified and appealing to the Polish government with an important appeal. Meanwhile, the Consul General of Poland in Lviv called the actions of the farmers at the border a disgrace and compared their actions to those of the Russian occupiers. The tension between the two countries due to the blocking of the border by the Poles has affected the attitude of Ukrainians toward the people of Poland. According to polls, the percentage of Ukrainians who consider Poland a friendly country has recently decreased. From air connectivity to IMEC, PM Modi had 'productive meeting' with Greek counterpart: Official. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Feb 21 : Comprehensive discussions were held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis, focusing on the importance of connectivity and regional and global issues of concern, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said on Wednesday. Greek PM Mitsotakis is currently on a two-day state visit to India and is joining the inaugural session of the Raisina Dialogue, India's flagship conference on geo-politics and geo-economics, as the chief guest. "This visit of the Greek Prime Minister and the comprehensive discussions, during the ongoing visit, have focused on enhancing and enriching all elements of strategic partnership. Both leaders also discussed the regional and global issues of common concern and also the ongoing developments in Europe," Kwatra said addressing a special briefing on PM Modi's visit. Kwatra's comments came as PM Modi mentioned in a post on X that he had a "productive meeting" with his Greek counterpart, covering key areas like technology, pharmaceuticals, skill development, space, and innovation. "We also agreed to boost cooperation in areas like shipping, connectivity and defence," PM Modi wrote. Kwatra said that the two leaders also focused on the importance of connectivity, both maritime connectivity and partnership through corridors -- particularly the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC). In response to a query, he said the discussions on IMEC took place in the larger context of stronger connectivity between India and Greece and looked at all possible options that would stand in this connectivity. "Given the strategic importance that Greece holds in terms of its location, and the manner in which it could partner with the IMEC corridor was discussed," Kwatra told reporters. The two also discussed "air connectivity, in terms of the intent of both leaders to encourage the private sector to start direct, bilateral flights between India and Greece". "Both governments are making efforts to ensure that the private sector airlines in both countries should be encouraged to take advantage of the tourism-related and business-related potential between the two countries to start flights as soon as possible," Kwatra said in response to a question. The Foreign Secretary added that it will be a little difficult to say when these flights will start, as the decision will be taken by the private sector operators. This is the first bilateral head of state/government-level visit from Greece to India after 15 years. While the last Prime Ministerial visit from Greece to India took place in 2008, PM Modi visited Athens on August 25, 2023. Gangtok, Feb 21 : The Army on Wednesday rescued more than 500 tourists stranded due to sudden heavy snowfall and inclement weather in high-altitude areas in east Sikkim, officials said. Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said that in view of the sudden heavy snowfall, approximately 175 vehicles with over 500 tourists got stranded at Nathu La in east Sikkim and troops of Trishakti Corps, braving the sub-zero temperature rushed to the mountainous areas to rescue and provide succour to the stranded tourists. Prompt medicare, hot refreshments and meals and safe transportation were rendered to the tourists timely to assist the tourists reach safety, he said. The Trishakti Corps, while guarding the borders in Sikkim, is always prepared to assist the civil administration and people, Lt Col Rawat added. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday called upon the international community to collectively aspire for peace in this age of democratic and rules-based world order, where individual countries proactively collaborate for shared peace and prosperity. While Rajnath Singh batted for peace and shared goodness, he also said that "we will not shrink from countering any threat that undermines our collective well-being, piracy and trafficking included". He said this while addressing the formal opening ceremony of the 12th edition of the multi-nation Exercise MILAN in Visakhapatnam. Sharing his insights on the concept of 'peace', the Defence Minister asserted that the absence of wars and conflicts is the most irreducible minimum element of peace. He spoke of "negative peace" which, he said, often stems from dominance or hegemony, where one power imposes its will upon others. He said such peace, not backed by fairness and justice, is what physicists and economists call "unstable equilibrium". Rajnath Singh elaborated on what he called "cold peace" where parties do not kill each other in the open, but do their best to undermine one another. He described cold peace as merely an interval between direct conflicts. The Defence Minister was of the view that the concept of positive peace goes beyond the mere absence of direct military conflict and encompasses broader notions of security, justice, and cooperation. He said: "The positive peace is the shared peace of one and all, with the cooperation of one and all. There is no Indian peace or Australian peace or Japanese peace, rather it is the shared global peace. This sentiment was also eloquently set forth by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he said this is not an era of war. But it is one of dialogue and diplomacy." Singh emphasised that armed forces play a dual role - conduct wars as well as maintain peace and good order. "Historically, navies and armies were established and maintained with the primary objective of extending political power through military conquests. Our historical experience informs us that the Armed Forces also play a significant role in preserving peace. It is seen in concepts and practices such as deterrence, conflict prevention, peace-keeping, and also in various humanitarian assistance efforts especially during disasters," he said. The Defence Minister stressed that in this evolution of the nature of the Armed Forces, international military exercises have emerged as crucial mechanisms for fostering friendship, understanding, cooperation, and military inter-operability among friendly nations within the framework of a democratic world order. He termed MILAN 2024 as one such attempt to build the much-needed fraternal bonds across the oceans and mountains. --IANS gcb/pgh New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Indian Navy deployed in the Gulf of Aden rendered medical assistance to an Iranian fishing vessel (FV) with 18 Pakistani crew members on board, an official said on Wednesday. Responding swiftly to an alert of a medical emergency by FV Al Arifi, carrying 18 Pakistani crew, the INS Shivalik Mission provided specialist medical advise and critical medicines to the distressed crew, the official said. INS Shivalik is deployed in the region in consonance with Indian Navy's mandate of Maritime Security Operations under the broader ambit of the Prime Minister's vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region). Earlier this year, the Navy also responded swiftly against the hijacking attempts in the Arabian Sea. In January the Indian Navy thwarted the hijacking of Sri Lankan fishing vessel. The operation was successfully carried out in collaboration with Seychelles Defence Forces and Sri Lanka Navy. The joint team rescued the hijacked vessel. New Delhi, Feb 21 : The West Bengal government on Wednesday sought an urgent listing of its suit filed in the Supreme Court challenging filing of FIRs and investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in cases of post-poll violence in the state. Appearing for the state government, senior advocate Kapil Sibal requested CJI D.Y. Chandrachud to direct listing of the matter on Wednesday or Thursday, adding that the suit has been adjourned multiple times. However, the CJI Chandrachud-headed bench refused to pass any direction, saying that the matter will have to be mentioned before a bench headed by Justice B.R. Gavai -- which had earlier issued notice in the suit. Opposing the state governmentas request for urgent listing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that the hearing in the suit could wait for a few days and there is no urgency. In its original civil suit under Article 131 of the Constitution, the West Bengal government has accused the CBI of proceeding with investigations and filing FIRs in cases of post-poll violence without getting the nod from the state government as mandated under the statute. The Central agency has lodged multiple FIRs in cases of post-poll violence in the state. The state government, in its plea, has sought a stay of investigation in the FIRs lodged by the CBI in pursuance of the Calcutta High Court order. The plea said that the general consent given to the CBI by the Trinamool Congress government had been withdrawn, and thus the FIRs lodged could not be proceeded with. Kolkata, Feb 21 : Amid fresh allegations of hounding by local anti-social elements in the wee hours of the day levelled by some women at Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district, surveillance has been beefed up in the area, which is a conglomeration of some islands, to prevent recurrence of tension. District police sources said that 10 new CCTV cameras have been installed at five different locations with focus on the areas from where maximum complaints were received. The initiative, according to the local police, will be key in keeping a close watch on the movements of people in the troubled areas so that prompt action can be taken in case of any foul play. On Wednesday, that is 14 days after tension broke out at Sandeshkhali after some local women accused certain local Trinamool Congress leaders of sexual harassment and violence, acting DGP Rajeev Kumar visited the troubled spots, accompanied by newly-appointed ADG (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar and Basirhat district SP Hossain Mehedi Rehman. Kumar held a closed-door meeting with the top police officers on the law and order situation in the area. Although the acting DGP did not speak to mediapersons, sources said that Kumar took a detailed stock of the nature of police deployment in the area and the complaints received by the police. The visit of Kumar was significant considering that a field-inspection team from the National Commission of Scheduled Tribe (NCST) is scheduled to visit Sandeshkhali on Thursday. Mumbai/Kolhapur, Feb 21 : The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies have reached a consensus on sharing 39 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, while the sharing of the remaining nine seats is likely to be finalised by the weekend, top leaders said here on Wednesday. Nationalist Congress Party (SP) President Sharad Pawar confirmed the developments in Kolhapur which were endorsed by the other allies Congress-Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders in Mumbai. However, the three partners remain tight-lipped on what constituencies shall be contested by which ally, though there are clear indications on some seats. At the same time, there are rumbles on certain important or high-profile constituencies, tug-of-war over the actual number of seats each MVA partner should get, based on the 2019 outcome, either as winners or runner-up. Compared with 2019, the state political spectrum has become very crowded in 2024, with an array of parties expected to be in the fray, confounding the already confused scenario. Two major parties have split vertically a" the original Shiv Sena and the NCP, besides the parting of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi and AIMIM, which were allies in the last Lok Sabha polls. The housefull scenario includes the MVA's three main partners, plus their half-dozen other constituents; the ruling MahaYuti of Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party-Nationalist Congress Party and their supporters; plus Independents and smaller parties like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena which may or may not ally with any other group. In the 2019 Lok Sabha, the BJP won 23 seats, the Shiv Sena (undivided) bagged 18 when they had contested as allies, while the NCP (undivided) won four seats, and the Congress, AIMIM and an Independent bagged one seat each. This time, both -- the divided Shiv Sena and NCP -- are going to contest as separate entities, but the Shiv Sena (UBT) led by ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray and NCP (Sharad Pawar) will also enter the fray with new and untested symbols. Chandigarh, Feb 21 : Farmers on Wednesday announced to suspend the 'Delhi Chalo' march for two days, and will decide their next course of action on Friday evening. The decision was announced by farmers' leader Sarwan Singh Pandher while addressing the media. Farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana borders for the past few days to press the Centre into accepting their demands on minimum support price (MSP) for crops and other issues. A protesting farmer, identified as Jugraj Singh, reportedly died and several were injured as Haryana Police lobbed tear gas shells at the Shambhu and Khanauri border in Punjab on Wednesday afternoon. Haryana Police have, however, denied any casualties. Amid the huge build-up of farmers at the borders of Haryana as they got ready to march to the national capital, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda earlier in the day said the Centre was ready to discuss all issues. "After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR in the fifth round. "I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace," he wrote on X. The farm union leaders had on Monday rejected the Centre's proposal of buying pulses, maize, and cotton at the MSP by the government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers' interest. The announcement was made by farmer leaders Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal after holding a meeting. A panel of three Union ministers -- Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai -- on Sunday gave the proposal to the farmers during the fourth round of talks in Chandigarh. Appealing for holding more talks to resolve the issue amicably, an optimistic Agriculture Minister told the media: "We want to do good, and several opinions can be given for doing so, as we always welcome good opinions... But to find a way on how that opinion will be fruitful, the only way is conversation. Through conversation, a solution will surely come out." Mumbai, Feb 21 : National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee's new film 'The Fable', which is directed by Raam Reddy, was screened at the Zoo Palast theatre during the ongoing edition of the Berlin Film Festival (Berlinale). Mumbai, Feb 21 (IANS) National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayeeas new film 'The Fable', which is directed by Raam Reddy, was screened at the Zoo Palast theatre during the ongoing edition of the Berlin Film Festival (Berlinale). The film was screened to a packed house of 800 audiences. aThe Fablea selected for the Encounters Competition is the second Indian film to be selected in the section at the Berlinale. The last Indian film in the Encounters Competition was 'The Shepherdess and The Seven Songs' in 2020. There has been no Indian film in the Main Competition at Berlinale since 'Shelter of the Wings' directed by late Buddhadeb Dasgupta in 1994. Manoj Bajpayee along with Deepak Dobriyal and Priyanka Bose attended the premiere in Berlin. Shot in Uttarakhand and set in 1989, aThe Fablea follows the journey of Dev (Manoj Bajpayee) who discovers mysteriously burnt trees in his estate of fruit orchards situated in the Himalayas. As more fires break out, he gets to see his true self and his family for who they truly are. The film also stars Hiral Sidhu, child actor Awan Pookot and Tillotama Shome in a special appearance. Raam Reddy, who has directed the film, had earlier helmed the critically-acclaimed Kannada black comedy 'Thithi', which clinched a National Award. Manoj Bajpayee said, "Stepping onto the red carpet at the Berlin International Film Festival filled me with pride and joy. Our film aThe Fablea has entered the prestigious Encounters segment, showcasing the dedication and passion of our amazing team." Talking about the audience response, Raam Reddy said, aThe premiere of aThe Fablea at Berlinale was incredible. The premiere sold out in less than an hour and our second screening today with almost 1,000 seats is also sold out. But most importantly, it felt like a celebration. After all our hard work, the excitement and intrigue felt by the audience was beautiful for me to experience first hand." He added, aThe Q&A post screening started with a lady, who attends festivals regularly, saying that it's the best film she's ever seen at Berlinale. A top French producer, who produced 'Annette' (opening film at Cannes in 2021), called the film aGigantic', and 'Truly brillianta. Hearing these things brought tears to my eyes." The film is a Prspctvs production in collaboration with MaxMedia, and is produced by Pratap Reddy and Sunmin Park. Written and directed by Raam Reddy, the film is shot by Sunil Ramkrishna Borkar, while Juhi Agarwal has done the production design. The Hindi dialogues are by Varun Grover. New Delhi, Feb 21 : Cynthia Changau, a resident of Papua New Guinea in the Pacific islands, who came to India for a training programme in entrepreneurship, was left enamored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's encouraging and motivating leadership and has now vowed to take home the message. Cynthia Changau came to Gujarat recently for attending the Indian Technical and Corporation Programme (ITCP), a three-week course in entrepreneurship, in Ahmedabad. Out of the 28 participants from various countries, she was the only resident of a Pacific island nation to attend the programme. She told a local daily, 'The National', that she got highly impressed by the Indian Prime Minister's persuasion of the common people in taking steps to realise their dreams, adding that she wanted such leadership to be 'replicated' in her country. "Citizens must have a dream and if one has a dream, I will make that dream come true," this part of PM Modi's speech made a huge impact on Cynthia. She also shared with the daily an example of how PM Modi encourages and inspires the local population for 'becoming an agent of change, rather than waiting for change'. "The Prime Minister once told people that cocoa should leave the country not as raw material, but as finished product. If it goes raw, we will create jobs for that country. But, processing it here will create jobs for the local population," she said, recalling a portion of PM Modi's speech, adding that her country should also adopt the same model of governance. Having got training in 'Knowledge and Education in Entrepreneurship', Cynthia is now pushing her acquaintances and friends to join the programme. She informed that the entrepreneurship training programme by the Indian government is free of cost and anyone can avail its benefits by just making a formal application. The 39-year-old woman runs a small firm and trains people on purchasing products online. With her enhanced knowledge, she now wants to train people in online shopping in her own country. Czech billionaire Jan Barta decided to help raise funds for FPV drones for the Ukrainian Defense Forces. For each repost of his post, he promised to send $100 to the Nemesis project, which raises money for 10,000 FPV drones for Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT Barta wrote about this on his page on the X. At the same time, he noted that his maximum donation as part of this campaign could be $2 million. "We live in a time that is increasingly reminiscent of the second half of the 1930s. I could not live in peace knowing that I did nothing to stop another Hitler. In light of the Republican wobble and in memory of Navalny, I will give $100 to FPV drones for Ukraine for every retweet," Barta wrote. At the time of writing, the investor's post had already garnered 29,000 reposts, reaching the goal he set for himself. "It was crazy! It took less than 24 hours to reach the goal. The post has been viewed by 1.2 million people. Hope it will help encourage more people to support Ukraine," the billionaire said. ADVERTISIMENT He said that he has already transferred $400,000 for FPV drones and will send the rest of the money within a few days. "And, of course, please join me in any form of support for Ukraine if you feel that way. I realize that there must be a lot of rich Americans who feel disgusted with what the Republican Party is doing, so bypass them and go straight ahead," Barta urged. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Supreme Court has ordered the Defence Ministry to pay compensation of Rs 60 lakh to a Permanent Commissioned Officer who was released from the Army on ground of her marriage. A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta said that termination of employment because the woman has got married is a coarse case of gender discrimination and inequality, adding that acceptance of such patriarchal rule undermines human dignity, right to non-discrimination and fair treatment. "Laws and regulations based on gender-based bias are constitutionally impermissible. Rules making marriage of women employees and their domestic involvement a ground for disentitlement would be unconstitutional," the bench said. Disposing of the appeal filed by the Centre, the apex court refused to interfere with the decision of the Armed Forces Tribunal which had held the release of Lt. Selina John a" a Permanent Commissioned Officer a" from the Military Nursing Service was wrong and illegal. It noted that the Army, in 1995, withdrew its Instruction titled "Terms and conditions of service for the grant of permanent commissions in the Military Nursing Service". "We direct the appellant(s) to pay compensation of Rs 60,00,000 (rupees sixty lakh only) to the respondent a" Ex. Lt. Selina John within a period of eight weeksaIn case the payment is not made within a period of eight weeks, the appellant(s) will pay interest at the rate of 12 per cent per annum," the apex court ordered. Ayodhya, Feb 21 : Quantum Integrators CEO and India Business Association's Advisory Chairman Raj Pandya led an American delegation to Ayodhya, consisting of leaders of the Indian-American diaspora. Leading the delegation, Pandya arrived in the city on Wednesday morning to pay his respects and pray for prosperity and global peace at the iconic Ram Temple. During the visit, he emphasized the significance of Ayodhya beyond the Hindu faith, highlighting its importance in Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism as well. Pandya stressed that Lord Ram transcends religious boundaries and is a symbol of India's cultural identity, love, sacrifice, rich Indian heritage revered by millions worldwide. Dhiren Amin, the President of the Indian Business Association, Inc. in the US, was also part of the delegation. Amin said that he is feeling simply nostalgic. Addressing the media after offering prayers at the temple, Pandya reiterated the universality of Lord Ram's worship, emphasizing that his legacy spans across religions and nations, symbolizing India's rich cultural heritage and unifying spirit. Pandya also mentioned that the rebuilding of the temple was celebrated by Indian-Americans throughout the US. He said: "We believe in strengthening the US-India relationship by creating more employment opportunities, and mutual business partnerships in both the countries which are world's two largest democracies working together is the current and future need of the better world." Pandya emphasized and reiterated that India's manpower is a big asset that the country has and the US needs that for its betterment. "Both countries coming together and working together is inevitable." The American delegation's visit to Ayodhya is seen as a gesture of cultural and spiritual exchange, promoting understanding and harmony across nations and beliefs. Imphal, Feb 21 : Lawyers on Wednesday staged a demonstration in front of the Cheirap court complex in Manipur's Imphal West district to protest against the reported security forces' "highhandedness" against women protesters on Tuesday. The All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) and the High Court Bar Association (HCBA) jointly held an emergency meeting on Wednesday and then held the sit-in in the Cheirap court complex. The Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel allegedly fired tear gas shells on Tuesday inside the Cheirap court complex on a large number of women, who were protesting against the arrest of six persons in connection with the mob violence and looting of arms from the security forces in Imphal East district on February 13. The trouble started after the police had brought the detainees to the court to seek further custody. AMBA President Puyam Tomcha said that both the bar associations strongly condemned the excessive use of force by RAF personnel against women protesters by using electric baton sticks, mob bombs and other lethal weapons. As a mark of protest, the lawyers abstained from discharging their duties, except for urgent matters, in the courts including the High Court on Wednesday. Both the AMBA and the HCBA demanded to strengthen the security in the court complex and institute an inquiry into the incident headed by a retired Manipur High Court judge. Both associations urged all sections of the society and the security forces to respect the sanctity of the court and not to indulge in such violence inside the court premises. Kolkata: TMC MLA Jiban Krishna Saha being arrested by CBI in connection with Bengal teacher recruitment scam, at Nizam Palace in Kolkata on Monday, April 17, 2023. (Photo: Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS). Image Source: IANS News Kolkata, Feb 21 : A process has been initiated for the removal of Trinamool Congress legislator Jiban Krishna Saha, who is currently in judicial custody because of his alleged involvement in the multi-crore cash-for-school jobs case in West Bengal, from his official post in one of the state government undertakings. Sources in the state transport department said that at the time of his arrest by the CBI in April last year, Saha was a director in the board of West Bengal State Transport Corporation (WBSTC). However, sources said, even almost a year after his arrest, Saha continues to hold on to the post. The matter recently came to the notice of a transport department official, who drew the attention of state Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty. "A process for officially removing Saha from the chair has been initiated, which will be completed soon," a transport department official said, adding that a formal notification in this regard will be issued by the department shortly. On February 16, Jyotipriya Mallick, another Trinamool legislator who is currently in judicial custody because of his alleged involvement in the multi-crore ration distribution case in West Bengal, was removed from his twin ministerial berths. Mallick's removal came almost four months after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in October last year. To recall, Trinamool was prompt in stripping former state Education Minister Partha Chatterjee of all his ministerial and party posts just within a week after his arrest by the ED in July 2022 in connection with the cash-for-school jobs case. Ayodhya, Feb 21 : Quantum Integrators CEO and India Business Association's Advisory Chairman, Raj Pandya, led an American delegation to Ayodhya, consisting of leaders of the Indian-American diaspora. Leading the delegation, Pandya arrived in the city on Wednesday morning to pay his respects and pray for prosperity and global peace at the iconic Ram Temple. During the visit, he emphasized the significance of Ayodhya beyond the Hindu faith, highlighting its importance in Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism as well. Pandya stressed that Lord Ram transcends religious boundaries and is a symbol of India's cultural identity, love, sacrifice, rich Indian heritage revered by millions worldwide. Dhiren Amin, the President of the Indian Business Association, Inc. in the US, was also part of the delegation. Amin said that he is feeling simply nostalgic. Addressing the media after offering prayers at the temple, Pandya reiterated the universality of Lord Ram's worship, emphasizing that his legacy spans across religions and nations, symbolizing India's rich cultural heritage and unifying spirit. Pandya also mentioned that the rebuilding of the temple was celebrated by Indian-Americans throughout the US. He said: "We believe in strengthening the US-India relationship by creating more employment opportunities, and mutual business partnerships in both the countries which are world's two largest democracies working together is the current and future need of the better world." Pandya emphasized and reiterated that India's manpower is a big asset that the country has and the US needs that for its betterment. "Both countries coming together and working together is inevitable." The American delegation's visit to Ayodhya is seen as a gesture of cultural and spiritual exchange, promoting understanding and harmony across nations and beliefs. New Delhi, Feb 21 : The Delhi High Court has issued notice to Delhi Police on gangster Yogesh Tunda's plea challenging the trial court order dismissing his plea, seeking six hours of custody parole for his marriage and subsequent three weeks' interim bail for rituals and conjugal rights. Justice Amit Mahajan, issuing notice on the plea of Tunda -- one of the accused in the murder of rival gang leader Tillu Tajpuria within the Tihar Jail -- listed the matter for further hearing on March 1. Special Judge (MCOCA) Chanderjit Singh of Patiala House Courts had, in January, dismissed the plea saying that the right to procreation is not absolute and necessitates careful examination. The trial court had held that it is not an irrefutable right, considering the previous conduct of the accused, including forging documents for bail. It had noted that Tunda, a member of the Gogi gang, had earlier filed a bail application using a forged Covid-positive certificate claiming his father had contracted the infection. The Delhi Police had said that the gang has 60 cases against it, with a history of escaping police custody. Advocates appearing for Tunda had argued that the marriage plans were verified, and they sought six hours of custody parole followed by interim bail for a suitable period. However, the prosecution had opposed the plea, citing a strong apprehension that Tunda might flee from the law. The court had also noted that the proposed marriage was fixed while Tunda was in custody, and cited a Delhi High Court case, Kundan Singh v State, to distinguish between the rights of a convict and an under-trial in matters of procreation. It had concluded that the application was dismissed in light of the accused's conduct and the potential risk of flight from the legal process. Tajpuriya, 33, was stabbed over 90 times to death by the assailants on May 2, 2023. The other arrested accused persons are Deepak Dabas, Rajesh Bawana, Riyaz Khan, Ata-ul-Rehman, and Chavanni. Tajpuriya, a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures on the ground-floor of Jail number 8. He was an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout in which gangster Jitender Gogi was killed. Chandigarh, Feb 21 : Claiming that the ongoing agitation of farmers has been handled in an apt and diligent manner in the state, the Punjab government on Wednesday refuted the allegations that the law and order situation has deteriorated in the state. On the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Chief Secretary Anurag Verma has written to the Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, stating that it is incorrect to say that the government of Punjab has allowed a gathering of a large number of persons on the borders in Shambhu and Dhabi-Gujran. He said the groups of farmers, which had set off for Delhi in order to hold a protest, were restrained and stopped from crossing over to Haryana by use of force by the police of the neighbouring state. The Chief Secretary said that due to this restriction placed upon the movement of farmers, crowds have assembled at two places on the borders between Punjab and Haryana. However, he said the gathering of farmers in the jurisdiction of Punjab has remained largely peaceful and no untoward incident of much relevance has been reported so far. Verma said this is apart from the injuries which have been sustained by about 160 people owing to the heavy use of riot control measures by the Haryana Police, including teargas shells, rubber bullets, physical force and drones. The Chief Secretary said that despite these incidents, the government of Punjab has been able to manage the crowd in an orderly fashion. Verma said regular parleys are on between the state officials and the farm leaders for dispersal of crowds on the borders, adding that no specific information on miscreants or law breakers in the guise of protesters is available with the police in a definite form. However, the Chief Secretary said that internal reports are being gathered to take suitable and proper action against such elements as and where required. Verma said it is pertinent to point out that all the demands in respect of which the protest was planned by the farm unions are in respect of measures to be taken by the government of India, which has already held four meetings with the farm leaders. The Chief Secretary said these meetings have not only been facilitated by the state of Punjab, but on three occasions, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has attended the meetings in person along with the concerned officials. He said that on one occasion, when the Chief Minister could not be present at one of the meetings, a Cabinet minister of Punjab along with high-ranking officials of the departments concerned was deputed to attend and assist the Union ministers in the meeting. Verma also requested the government of India to consider the demands of the farm unions more sympathetically so that the issue can be resolved amicably. He said Punjab being a border state has sensitive law and order issues and the same cannot be ignored while handling a protest of such a magnitude. The entire police force has been sensitised to the situation which is under control as of now, Verma said. Jaipur, Feb 21 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has decided that his convoy from now on will stop at traffic signals in order to avoid congestion and to ease commuting hassles faced by the people. The movement of traffic in the Pink City generally witnesses restrictions during the movement of the Chief Minister's convoy, leading to traffic jams most of the times. In a statement on Wednesday, the CM Office said that the Chief Minister has communicated the latest decision to the Director General of Police, U.R. Sahu. The DGP has been told that traffic stopped due to his convoy movement causes problems for the common people and also wastes their time. An official said that DGP Sahu has issued instructions to the Jaipur Police Commissioner in this regard. With this initiative, patients will get relief from traffic jams, a CMO official said. On one occasion, the Chief Minister had stopped his convoy and let an ambulance pass. Bhubaneswar, Feb 21 : The women workers of Odisha Congress got involved in a scuffle with the police in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday after the latter stopped the Congress workers from marching towards the Chief Minister's residence. The Congress workers led by Alka Lamba, the President of All India Mahila Congress (AIMC), and Odisha Pradesh Mahila Congress chief Minakshi Bahinipati set out on a rally to gherao the CM's residence over rising cases of violence against women, price rise, etc., in the state. As many as 100 workers of the Congress, including Lamba, Bahinipati, and Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Sarat Patnaik, were picked up by the city police from the Ashok Nagar area. Sources said the arrested leaders were later released by the police. "We weren't allowed to present our concerns in a democratic way as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik got scared of the women protesters. Women from every nook and corner of Odisha have exposed the failure of 'Mission Shakti'. We are ready to go to jail, but can't we remain silent. Our fight will continue till the women of the state get justice," said Lamba. She also said that Naveen Patnaik should have listened to the concerns of women instead of arresting them and sending them to jail. Earlier, Lamba while addressing a meeting of Mahila Congress, accused the BJP government at the Centre and the BJD government in Odisha of being anti-farmer, anti-women, anti-youth, and anti-labourer. "The fight is not limited to Bhubaneswar only, as we will reach every district and village of Odisha. We warn the government to check price rise, end unemployment and stop atrocities on women or else the women of the country will topple the government," said Lamba. She also urged OPCC President Sarat Patnaik to allot 50 per cent tickets to women members for the upcoming elections to both the Lok Sabha and the state Assembly. Addressing the gathering, the OPCC chief said that the BJD government will sink due to the discontent among women over rising atrocities against them in the state. Chandigarh, Feb 21 : Expressing shock over the death of a young farmer, Shubhkaran Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday announced ensuring exemplary punishment for those responsible for the death of the youth. The Chief Minister said he had seen the video of the gruesome murder of the young farmer who was there to exercise his democratic right. He said that after investigation, an FIR will be registered against the people responsible for the death of the youth and exemplary punishment for them will be ensured. Mann said the state is fully with the family of the deceased youth in this hour of crisis, and they will be helped socially and economically. The Chief Minister further said the death of youth is a result of the high-handedness of the Union and Haryana government. Mann said he had tried his level best to ensure that the farmers and the youth do not face bullets, water cannons, tear shells and others. For this, he said he acted as a bridge to ensure that the farmers and the Union government at some consensus, but unfortunately it never happened. The Chief Minister said he was part of two out of the four meetings held between the farmers and the Union government. However, he said the demands of the farmers were to be accepted by the Union government, which unfortunately failed to fulfill its duty. Mann said rather than accepting their demands, the farmers were unlawfully stopped by Haryana by putting barbed wires. The Chief Minister said that the farmers wanted to go to the national capital and lodge their peaceful protest but the Haryana government stopped them forcefully. He said the Centre should have allotted some place to farmers for their protest in the national capital but instead of that, the Haryana government stopped the farmers and used force on them. Mann said that this is grave insult of the food growers of the state who have made the country self-reliant in food production. --IANS vg/pgh ADVERTISIMENT They include a large number of ballistic weapons from the Fateh-110 family, such as the Zolfaghar mobile missile. According to experts, it is capable of hitting targets at a distance of 300 to 700 km. In particular, Jeffrey Lewis, an expert at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in Monterey, said that these missiles are precision weapons. "They are used to target objects of high value that require precise damage," Lewis said. One Iranian source said that the deliveries began in early January after meetings late last year between Iranian and Russian military and security officials in Tehran and Moscow. It is noted that there have already been at least four missile deliveries and more will follow in the coming weeks. Another senior Iranian official said that some of the missiles were sent to Russia by ship across the Caspian Sea, while others were transported by plane. ADVERTISIMENT "There will be more supplies. There is no reason to hide it. We are allowed to export weapons to any country we want," said one Iranian official. In October, UN Security Council restrictions on Iran's exports of certain missiles, drones and other technologies expired. However, the United States and the European Union have maintained sanctions on Iran's ballistic missile program amid concerns about arms exports to its proxies in the Middle East and to Russia. One source familiar with the matter confirmed that Russia had recently received a large number of missiles from Iran, without providing further details. As reported by OBOZ.UA: NATO has warned that Iran will start supplying missiles to Russia for the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin has repeatedly asked for such assistance. In November last year, the United States received intelligence on the strengthening of military cooperation between Russia and Iran. In particular, Tehran was preparing to transfer missiles to Moscow for use in the war against Ukraine. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Suva, Feb 22 : Fiji is taking proactive steps to strengthen its counter-terrorism capabilities, with a three-day workshop underway in the island nation, according to Mason Smith, permanent secretary for Ministry of Home Affairs. Fiji Broadcasting Corporation news website on Wednesday quoted Smith as saying that the move was of importance, Xinhua news agency reported. "Fiji needs to have a bill that is the overarching umbrella legislation that will define Fiji's policy on terrorism and provide a directive to the whole of the government's effort in dealing with terrorist activities," he said. The Cabinet had agreed to revive the counterterrorism effort through the development of a national counterterrorism strategy and a bill, Smith said, adding that steps have been taken to ensure that the Cabinet's intent is operationalised. Javascript Fehler: Javascript ist in Ihrem Browser deaktiviert. Um alle Funktionen z.B. das Login nutzen zu konnen, muss Javascript aktiv sein. Bitte aktivieren Sie Javascript in Ihrem Browser. Skanska has signed an agreement with Elof Hansson Fastigheter and Riksbyggen to build a new residential block and commercial premises at Masthuggskajen in Gothenburg. The contract is worth about SEK 340M, which will be included in the order bookings for Sweden in the first quarter of 2024. In total,... [] Winter Institute 2024 brought more than 950 members of the American Booksellers Association together in Cincinnati, Ohio, February 1114. Participants enjoyed a whirlwind of keynotes, panels, receptions, bookstore tours, and parties that lasted for four days. PW's two intrepid reporters collected a sampling of memorable moments with both familiar and new faces from the ABAs 19th annual conference of indie booksellers. Bookseller registration for Children's Institute 2024, to be held in New Orleans June 1012, will open in March, and is expected to sell out quickly. The next Winter Institute will be held in Denver, February 2326, 2025. All our live coverage of Winter Institute 2024: Daily Recaps and Reporting Booksellers Discuss Building Indie Brands and Bridges Booksellers Troubleshoot and Innovate Bookselling Activists Call for Words and Deeds Happenings Back Home Split Some Booksellers Attention Keynote Coverage Hanif Abdurraqib Celebrates Indie Presses at IPC Summit Keynote Speakers Share Business World Wisdom Michele Norris Explores Race and Identity In New Book on the Race Card Project Doris Kearns Goodwin Turns the Lens of History Upon Herself Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. The essence of the bilateral security agreements between Ukraine and the United States is to ensure Ukraine's defense until the country becomes a member of NATO. The document is still being developed. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink at a briefing in Kyiv. She confirmed that the parties are negotiating, but did not specify any time frame. "Yes, we are working on such a document. I expect that at some point in the near future we will be able to talk more about it publicly," Ms. Ambassador said in response to a question. She expects the process to move forward "as quickly as we can." The idea of the document is to "give Ukrainians confidence" in their security on the way to NATO. The diplomat does not know whether the agreement will be similar to similar documents signed with other countries (e.g., France, Germany). "It will be something that will give you reassurance and confidence that the United States will support your defense in this interim period," Brink said. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The killing of American troops stationed in Jordan by Iranian proxies has understandably unleashed much umbrage across the U.S. There have been bipartisan calls for some sort of response, and interventionists like John Bolton have argued for strikes in Iran itself. After considering their options, the Biden administration responded with strikes on those proxies in what some experts said could begin to send a deterrent message. As of now, this imagined deterrent has failed, as insurgent attacks have not ceased. But after 20 years, could simply does not cut it. Instead of attacking with counterproductive strikes which will waste money, more lives, and will not have their intended effect, the Biden administration should heavily draw down troops in the Middle East. Critics will say this is cutting and running. But there is wisdom in adjusting our force posture to be in line with Americas actual interests. In 1983, 241 American troops were killed by terrorists who detonated bombs in their barracks in Beirut. President Ronald Reagan responded with pinprick strikes but ultimately just pulled the remaining troops out entirely. Why? Because we did not need to be there, just like we do not need to be in Tower 22, the base on the Jordan-Syria border where troops were killed recently. But lets, for a moment, agree with those who say we must react, or, as the interventionists always like to say, Do something. What should we do? The most extreme option would have been to declare war on Iran. What would be the goal of a war? Neoconservatives have long argued for Iranian regime change, dating back to the revolution in 1979. And while it is indeed an evil regime, would the outcome of war be successful regime change? We have tried this twice in recent decades. The first attempt met spectacular failure in Afghanistan and the second, Iraq, is teetering and has been totally co-opted by Irans government as it is. Plus, a war on Iran would create thousands of casualties among American troops and far more among their civilian population. And what then? Would we nation-build, as we failed to do in Afghanistan? Would we just blow it up and leave, hoping a group like ISIS doesnt emerge? How about so-called pinprick strikes, similar to the ones the Biden administration considered? Their proponents argue that targeted attacks will reduce civilian casualties and can hamper the work of Irans proxy groups. That may be so, but targeted killings in the Middle East have as-of-yet still somehow managed to kill civilians, and according to Iraqs government, civilians are among the dead from these new strikes. Plus, these strikes merely re-create the $2 million missile at a $10 empty tent conundrum: these missiles each cost huge amounts of money, and they do not solve the problem. But beyond how to strike back, the main question should be what the goal of the operation would be. Is it just a smack in response to the attack on our troops? If so, are we defining their lives by a certain number of Iranian computers ruined by a cyberattack (another option considered by the Biden administration), or a set number of missiles launched? Is there a palpable goal for what would ultimately be a multi-million-dollar operation? Or is it just a way to express rage? If there is a goal, its proponents should spell it out more clearly than they have. We know, almost for a fact, that these strikes will not dissuade Irans proxies. They have been attacking our troops and bases for years, and we have been striking back for years; their attacks have not ceased. And if there is no goal, then rage is an unacceptable reason alone to wage foreign policy. The Biden administration tried to square this circle by suggesting that perhaps Iran does not actually control all of the activities of their proxies. Considering how often Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders who oversee Irans relations with their proxies go to meetings in Baghdad and elsewhere, such an excuse flies in the face of reality. But it seems the administration is hoping that this fig leaf will excuse them from acting against Iran proper. They need not jump through such hoops. If they cannot find and define an end-goal for the potential strikes, and they cannot show how the strikes would help reach that goal, then they should not undertake them. Such a rubric for decision-making should also apply to our troops stationed in the Middle East, or anywhere. If there is no end-goal for their being present in the region, or at least no achievable goal, then they should simply not be there. It is incredibly concerning that after over twenty years of the War on Terror, do something foreign policy is still the reigning philosophy in Americas government. We should finally turn the page. Anthony J. Constantini is a Contributing Fellow at Defense Priorities. TLC / Reality TV World By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/20/2024 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. : The Other Way star Mary DeNuccio has announced she has colon cancer, and her husband Brandan DeNuccio is begging fans to "save her life" by donating money to pay for her surgery.Brandan, who married Mary on : The Other Way's fifth season last year, took to Instagram Stories on Saturday, February 17 to announce that his wife would be undergoing surgery to "remove her colon cancer."Alongside his post, he shared a link to a fundraising page with the following headline: "Help Mary Financially For Her Colon Cancer."Brandan wrote to his followers, "I humble [sic] asking for your financial help for Mary's surgery. We need help not judgments. Any amount will help Mary a lot and save her life."On the fundraising page, Mary wrote that she was "diagnosed with colon cancer" on February 16.Mary went on to reveal that she began having symptoms when she was in high school, including bloody stools."I thought it's normal and [it stopped] for a long time, but it [came] back when I was in college and it [stopped] again and now I poop blood back," Mary wrote as part of her "Campaign Story" on the fundraising page."I'm scared of the surgery after my C SECTION," Mary said, referring to the birth of her daughter Midnight."But the doctor said [it] needs to be removed before it's too late. I don't have financial support. I'm the only one working in the family and supporting my family. I hope you will help me. Any amount will help me a lot."Mary added, "Please don't judge me. I don't want to die. I want to spend my whole life with my daughter."As of Monday, February 19, over $1,300 has been raised for Mary's cancer surgery.Brandan shared a photo via Instagram Stories on Monday of the outside of a building, appearing to be a hospital or care clinic, with the song "Keep Going" by Common Heights playing in the background.Brandan tagged Mary in his post and wrote the lyric, "You're stronger than you think you are," over the image.Mary, meanwhile, is going through a very hard time. She lashed out at trolls and haters on Monday for being skeptical of her diagnosis and slamming her amid her health crisis."People [reported] my Facebook and I can't access it anymore. I'm here dealing with a lot of pain and can't even eat. People are [the] worst. Maybe all of you will be sooooo happy when I die. You don't know what I've been through," Mary wrote.Mary complained about how people haven't seen her situation and how she's been living on a day-to-day basis."If only you are here with me when I vomit, when I have this f-cking painful thing inside my stomach you'll know," Mary griped."I won't do any medication or go back to the hospital, and I hope when I die, you will realize that it's not okay to bash and judge someone [when] you don't know what's going on in their lives."Mary claimed that Facebook was her only way to make money and support her family."IDK what to do now. I lost courage. I lost faith. Seeing all your comments gives me a lot of pain. I'm the only one providing food for my family and needs for my child," Mary explained."Now that I have health problems, I can't work as a call center agent anymore because I'm night shift and that's bad for my health. When I die, I want all the bashers to know that it's not very good to bash and judge people and say bad things to people who you don't really know."Mary wrapped her rant with the following grim statement: "I want you to realize that when I die."On : The Other Way's fifth season, Brandan was shown moving from Oregon to the Philippines to live with Mary, the love of his life.The couple struggled with financial problems, as the small convenient store they had purchased in town wasn't exactly bringing in cash. Mary wanted her husband to find a job and support them, and she was also upset because they were fighting all the time.However, Mary and Brandan had premarital sex against Mary's religious beliefs and her grandparents' rules for the couple living under their roof. Mary had baby fever and wanted to get pregnant, and she and Brandan successfully conceived during their first three months together in the Philippines.Mary was fearful of the future and whether they'd have enough money to raise their baby comfortably, but they ended up getting married anyway.On the show's Tell-All special, Mary and Brandan announced they had welcomed their first child together and were growing as a couple.Brandan admitted he sometimes yelled at Mary and treated her poorly, and so he acknowledged how he could step up and be a better life partner. Mary, for her part, was willing to stand by his side through difficult times in order to keep her family together.Want more spoilers or couples updates? Click here to visit our homepage! In between a string of successful music performances and other ventures, superstar Beyonce Knowles announced Tuesday that her charity is going to fund a $500,000 cosmetology school and business scholarship. ADVERTISEMENT "Fostering talent, promoting professionalism, and supporting entrepreneurship within the hair industry is deeply important to us," according to the charity. The annual $500,000 grant -- 25 grants of $10,000 each year -- is expected to finance salon businesses and scholarships for cosmetology schools in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston and Los Angeles, as well as in the state of New Jersey. The Cecred x BeyGOOD Fund, as it is being called, said they are "honored to give back to this amazing community" and that hairstylists "have an immense impact on the people in their chairs." "They create a sacred space where we can show up how we want and express ourselves through our hair," the organization website said. Maria Georgas / Instagram By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/20/2024 ADVERTISEMENT 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! ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. 's Maria Georgas has admitted she's "not innocent" when it comes to all the drama that's played out on Joey Graziadei 's season with Sydney Gordon Jess Edwards , and Lea Cayanan Maria took to TikTok on Monday, February 19 to discuss her rift with several bachelorettes on Joey Graziadei 's season."It was kind of a hard watch for two reasons: one being the drama and two, you guys got to see a little bit more of a sensitive side of me, and being vulnerable is very hard for me. But I'm happy that I shared some things, and I want to shed more light on that and expand on what else wasn't shown," Maria said, referring to 's two-night event last week.During 's February 12 and February 13 episodes, Joey eliminated Sydney on her two-on-one date with Maria, and Lea, who had become best friends with Sydney, had an issue with Maria still being in the picture. Sydney had called Maria a catty "mean girl" and a "bully."Jess then accused Maria of being "rude" and "disrespectful" for stealing Joey's time at the cocktail party in Spain when she already had a rose in hand."Let's start with the drama. I really want to give grace to all of the women that were involved," Maria stated."Being in an environment like this, it heightens everything. Your emotions -- everything is just overwhelming, and so it does get the best of us at times. It did get the best of me, and I think you guys got to see that on the Tuesday [February 13] episode."Maria confessed she had reached a "breaking point" at that point in the process.As viewers probably recall, Maria had threatened to quit the show during her time in Malta, and she also snapped at and fought with Jess when confronted about monopolizing Joey's time in Spain."I just want to say that I'm not innocent in this," Maria clarified."You know, I think I like to say that I am a woman who speaks her mind and will defend herself at all costs. That's just how I was raised. But, yeah, if I could go back, honestly, I would do things differently, especially when whatever you're going to say or do is just not going to make the other person happy."Maria admitted that next time she's in a similar situation, she's just "going to zip it," and she added, "When I was first told I was going to be on , the last thing I thought was that I was going to be in drama."Maria insisted, "I didn't go into that house looking for trouble, I really didn't. I wanted to make friends, make memories, and then make a love connection. That's literally it."The 29-year-old executive assistant from Kleinburg, Ontario, pointed out that she's been watching right along with fans at home."We're all watching at the same time, and so a lot of things I'm hearing and seeing that people are saying and doing, I'm hearing it for the first time and I'm seeing it for the first time. So it is tricky," Maria noted."It was hard to navigate in the house and in that environment, let alone having to watch it back and kind of go through the motions. So please spread positivity. Nobody is perfect, including myself, and I just think that sh-t happens sometimes and people deal with things differently."Maria said that while she "can't understand or explain or defend everyone's actions and doings in the house," she can take accountability for the things she had done wrong."I'm responsible for myself and I think that I could've done things better. So, I'll leave it at that," Maria confirmed."But when I did say things will be coming to light and will be spoken about, I stand by that. And, you know, being filmed 24/7, I knew that would come in handy at some point."In terms of Maria showing Joey a vulnerable side of herself, she had opened up about her mother getting depressed after a serious car accident and leaving her when she was young."I told Joey in an earlier conversation that wasn't shown why I might be a little bit more straightforward and blunt, I guess, is the word. I'm a little bit rough around the edges... and it is because I was raised by my dad and my brothers, and I'm just a little more tough," Maria explained."My dad and my mom were separated, and to me, growing up, I didn't know what to think of it. I held resentment. I couldn't understand it, and I just didn't have my mom around, and that was kind of it."Maria said that life has taught her to remain positive and be grateful for every day on this earth."Innately, you should always be nice to everyone you meet and to everyone around you, but respect is earned. And, you know, I don't like to put myself into situations where I feel like I need to be on the attack," Maria said."I don't like to put myself into situations where I'm dealing with petty fights -- I really don't, because there are things far worse that are going on in people's lives."Maria insisted that she felt "so lucky" to compete on 's 28th season."Guys, I was on a yacht!" Maria quipped, referring to her two-on-one date against Sydney in Malta."Do you think I wanted to sit there and be sad?! No! I am so grateful for everything that's going on, and I'm grateful for everyone that's so supportive of me. I'm just trying to focus on the positive and not the negative, and I thought that's what I was trying to make clear to everyone."Maria concluded her video by asking her followers to "choose to be happy."Sydney previously accused Maria of gaslighting women on , but she has faced backlash and hate from many fans for how she had treated Maria and thrown her under the bus.Maria appeared to have support from Edwina Dorbor Jenn Tran , and Lexi Young during filming.On 's latest episode that aired on Monday, February 19, Maria received a special one-on-one date with Joey in Montreal, Canada, in which they rode around in a limo and went shopping at a boutique for a beautiful gown. The date ended with Joey giving Maria a rose.During his time in Montreal, Lexi quit the show, and Joey eliminated Lea, Jess, and Katelyn DeBacker Click here to learn more about Joey's bachelorettes or click here to read spoilers that reveal how Joey's season ends and who he picked as his winner.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Caila Quinn / Instagram By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/20/2024 ADVERTISEMENT 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! ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. alum Caila Quinn has announced she's expecting her second child with husband Nick Burrello.Caila revealed she's pregnant with Baby No. 2 during a trip to Disney World with her husband and their 11-month-old daughter, Teddi Marie."Well... looks like there is another 'Minnie me' coming in August," Caila, 32, wrote in an Instagram post on Friday, February 16.Alongside the caption, Caila posted a video of Nick and herself wearing matching Mickey Mouse sweatshirts outside of Cinderella's castle. The couple was also holding up a sonogram image.The photo also featured Caila wearing Minnie Mouse ears and holding Teddi, who looked adorable in a red polka dot dress with Minnie Mouse heads printed on the collar."So excited for Teddi to become a big sister!!" Caila, who gave birth to Teddi in March 2023, continued in her upload."We are soaking in every second bringing her to Disney for the first time. Also, enjoying this trip before next time we have to do it with a double stroller."Caila made a separate pregnancy announcement via Instagram Stories, writing, "Well... looks like 'the mouse' is out of the bag!"Caila also thanked fans and Bachelor Nation for "being excited" for her growing family. Caila gushed about how the public reaction to her second pregnancy has made her "so emotional & grateful."In addition, the Bachelor in Paradise alum shared how her pregnancy is the reason why she has been "sick and under the weather" as well as "a little off the grid" for the past three months.Caila and Nick were set up by a mutual friend and went public with their relationship in October 2017 after Nick met her parents, which was well over a year after Caila appeared on Ben Higgins ' season of .Caila and Nick got married on May 30, 2021 in Sarasota, FL, after canceling an overseas wedding in Lake Como, Italy due to the coronavirus pandemic.Caila and Nick initially wanted to tie the knot in Italy in May 2021 and have a second local ceremony in the Midwest to accommodate all of their loved ones, but they felt the need to cancel both weddings due to the spread of COVID-19.Caila admitted the decision was a heartbreaking one, but Caila and Nick ultimately decided to exchange vows in Sarasota, where Nick actually proposed marriage to alum -- during a romantic beach dinner -- on January 2, 2020 after two years of dating.Caila announced she was expecting her first baby in late September 2022. Caila apparently told Nick that he's going to be a father on his 30th birthday.alum then revealed she was pregnant with a girl in late December 2022 around the Christmas holiday. Caila had Nick unwrap a gift box with a teddy bear wearing a pink onesie inside.Caila later endured 15 hours of labor and ended up having a C-section on March 30, 2023.The Bachelor in Paradise alum previously told Us Weekly that she's "always wanted to be a mom" and being pregnant felt "too good to be true."On 's 20th season, Ben eliminated Caila right after his round of overnight Fantasy Suite dates in favor of eventual runner-up JoJo Fletcher and winner Lauren Bushnell , from whom he split in May 2017.Caila, who was 24-years-old at the time Ben broke up with her, was blindsided, crushed and sent home before a Rose Ceremony in Jamaica."I thought I'd be getting engaged in a week-and-a-half. I was ready," Caila said in tears following her ouster."I was ready to get married. I was ready to be his wife. I was ready. I was ready for our future. It's all I thought about. My purpose in life is to love other people and I don't know why I haven't found it yet. I thought this was it. I thought this was it. I was ready. I didn't see this coming. I love him, too. Like, I still love him."That same year, Caila appeared on Season 3 of Bachelor in Paradise and left the show still dating Jared Haibon Caila even met Jared's family in Rhode Island, but she revealed during an August 2016 episode of After Paradise that "mystical forces" contributed to their split.Jared's tight friendship with Ashley Iaconetti , who appeared jealous and possessive of her longtime crush, seemed to be the reason behind his split with Caila about six weeks after filming wrapped.Jared and Ashley reconciled in May 2018 after remaining friends for years and tied the knot in August 2019. The couple now has their second child on the way Although Caila didn't find love on franchise, she told Us in 2021 that her experience on reality TV placed her on a path that eventually led to her meeting Nick."I feel really lucky because I feel like I wasn't meant to go on the show to find love there," explained Caila, who moved from Ohio to New York after her stint."I was meant to go on the show to find Nick. If I wasn't on the show, I wouldn't ever have met him because I would never have been a blogger and that's who introduced us and set us up on our first date. So, I think everything happens for a reason and I thank God every day."Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Daisy Kent / Instagram By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/21/2024 ADVERTISEMENT 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! ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. 's Daisy Kent has fired back at haters claiming she has "vocal fry" that's hard to listen to when she talks to Joey Graziadei on the show.Daisy took to Instagram on Tuesday, February 20 and shared one of the comments she recently received from a troll."How can yall listen to that vocal fry," the person wrote along with three crying-laughing emojis.Daisy posted a video explaining how this criticism makes her feel, and she captioned her post, "Going on #thebachelor was hard for me bc I knew not everyone would react to me with kindness & understanding."But Daisy said she's "very thankful for the large amount of people who have uplifted" her."My voice is not something I can always tell & these comments do hurt because I am human. Overall, they remind me how proud I should be for doing something & sharing a vulnerable part of me," continued the 25-year-old account executive from Becker, MN."They remind me that the DM I get from a 15 year old girl telling me that me being on #thebachelor gave her more confidence, inspired her, and made her feel less alone matters more than the people like this who try to bring down something I have worked so hard to build up within myself."Daisy concluded her message with a reminder to "be kind," and she added the following hashtags: #socialmedia #realitytv #hearingloss #cochlearimplant.In the video, Daisy tells her followers, "I usually don't respond to negative or mean comments, but I've been getting a lot of comments like these ones. It's interesting because most of the people who post them are people who have fake user names and fake pictures as their profile pictures."I know I don't have to explain myself," Daisy goes to on to say, "but I do have a cochlear implant, which is how I hear. And I can't always hear exactly what my voice is sounding like. I can't always tell if I'm being loud or if I'm being quiet, or if I have a vocal fry or if I don't."Daisy said it's "sad" because when people make fun of the way she sounds, it does make her think about the way she's talking, especially when she's making social media videos such as these."It is sad because losing my hearing and getting a cochlear implant is something that really affected my confidence, and the show, all of the producers and all of the cast were such a confidence builder for me," Daisy shared."Everyone was so supportive of me, and it's just unfortunate that people online have to comment stuff like this that make me [get] in my head about the way that I talk and speak."Daisy opened up to Joey on 's 28th season about a health crisis she had endured for years, which included gradual hearing loss and how a cochlear implant -- which Daisy got in March 2023 and activated the following month -- changed her life for the better.Daisy began having stroke-like seizures when she was 11-years-old, but doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong with her for years.Her health worsened to the point where she had to move in with her parents."I physically just laid in bed all day. I couldn't get up. My head always hurt. My ears would ring so loud and I had vertigo all the time," she recalled in a TikTok video she posted earlier this month, adding, "It got really bad, to the point where I wasn't even functioning. "She was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease at age 21, and she eventually went to an inpatient treatment center in Germany to treat her symptoms.After more than a month of injections, infusions, whole-body hypothermia, plasmapheresis, an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, and more, Daisy finally felt better and was able to begin living a normal pain-free life.Daisy, however, didn't regain her hearing, and so she received the cochlear implant and now rocks it as a fashion statement.Joey told cameras how he was so impressed by Daisy and her ability to overcome such adversity, while also turning challenges into positives."I am blown away, honestly," Joey revealed.When Daisy showed Joey her cochlear implant, he called it "beautiful," and star told the bachelorette that he found her inspiring."Daisy is resilient... and to have that be the person that you're with, it's a huge trait that you can look to," Joey said in a confessional, adding, "I can see Daisy being someone I end up with at the end of all this, and it's exciting!"Daisy founded a nonprofit organization called Hear Your Heart in April 2021 to support children with autoimmune disorders or hearing loss, and she also wrote the book Daisy Doo: All the Sounds She Knew to help kids discover "the beauty of" her "favorite sounds" thanks to a cochlear implant.Daisy was just shown traveling to Montreal, Canada with Joey and his remaining bachelorettes on 's latest episode . She appears to be a frontrunner to win Joey's heart on Season 28, and she recently thanked Bachelor Nation for everyone's support. Click here to learn more about Joey's bachelorettes or click here to read spoilers that reveal how Joey's season ends and who he picked as his winner.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Disney/John Fleenor By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 02/20/2024 ADVERTISEMENT 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! ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. 's Kelsey Toussant has provided more insight into her father's strict religious beliefs and her upbringing.On 's latest episode , Kelsey T. accompanied Joey on a one-on-one date in Montreal, Canada, and during the dinner portion of the evening, she opened up about her tumultuous relationship with her dad.The 31-year-old actress from Los Angeles, CA, explained how she was extremely close to her father growing up, until she decided that she didn't want to focus her life -- and career -- around his religion."He stopped talking to me... for a very long time," Kelsey T. said, recalling how her dad had cut her out of his life."In my heart, I knew it wasn't where I wanted to be. And because I chose to go to college, he didn't support that decision at all. Anyone who's in his household has to be in the religion, and so I wasn't allowed to be there anymore. So I went to live with my mom and we stopped talking."Kelsey T. did not specify what religion she was raised in, but she previously spoke to Voyage LA magazine about her estrangement from her father and how he was a Jehovah's Witness."I knew I had creative genes flowing through my body... When high school came around, I joined a theater class and that's when I realized I wanted to pursue creativity for the rest of my life," Kelsey T. shared in August 2019."At the same time, I was a full-blown Jehovah's Witness and I knew the two couldn't co-exist. So I decided to leave the religion and set my focus on attending California State University, Northridge."Kelsey T. went on to have three majors: accounting, broadcast journalism, and theater."After a successful play, costume designing, directing, improv, and on camera classes, I realized that I didn't choose this dream it chose me," she told the magazine."I would be doing myself and everyone else a disservice if I only made it a side hustle. After graduating, acting became my life."She elaborated, "Since then I've been honored to be a part of several web series, short films... a commercial, and shared the creative space with some of the most talented creatives I know. In addition to acting, I also dabble in modeling and I'm starting a clothing line named TOUSSANT."Kelsey T. admitted, however, that carving her own path and supporting herself while pursuing her passions wasn't easy."Coming from a very strict religious background, I've had to break out of a mentality that I've had for more than half my life. I was so separated from society and didn't even realize it and I've had to play catch-up ever since," Kelsey T. explained."From rebuilding relationships with family and friends to watching movies I wasn't able to experience. Even to this day, friends of mine will ask if I've seen certain movies and they can't believe that as an actress I haven't seen some of the most iconic films!"Kelsey T. said a lot of sacrifice went into "being a creative" and doing such work has caused "a lot of downfalls, disappointments and fruitless expenses" for her."Despite those challenges," Kelsey T. said, "I can go through rain, sleet, mud, snow or hunger and get one opportunity to act, then suddenly I don't remember how hard the journey's been."Kelsey T. concluded, "I can't remember where I heard this first but I truly believe Luck is when Preparation meets Opportunity. Success to me is connecting dreams."On , Kelsey T. admitted to Joey that her situation with her father "messed [her] up very badly. She is still struggling to trust men in relationships.However, Kelsey T. revealed that she and her father are now in touch and are working to slowly repair their relationship. For instance, they reach out to each other on the phone every now and then."It's hard because he still missed a lot," Kelsey T. shared with star.Joey complimented Kelsey T. on being strong and resilient, and then she said things felt "right" and "amazing" with him. Joey, who felt very connected and bonded with the bachelorette, gave her a kiss and a rose in Montreal.Kelsey T. and Joey's other remaining women will be shown traveling to Jasper in Canada for the next round of dates, which will air Monday, February 26 on . Click here to learn more about Joey's bachelorettes or click here to read spoilers that reveal how Joey's season ends and who he picked as his winner.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Better Late Than Never? Set the controls on the Wayback Machine to Y2K, Sherman. Were going to the old GlockTalk.com forum to see what the most hoped-for new pistol from Glock was among its most rabid fans back there in the day. While either bitrot or a blown software upgrade erased the forums actual archives that far back, some of us were there, Gandalf. We can tell you that two decades ago the most anticipated pistol from Glock was a single-stack variant of the Glock 19. After all, the newest hotness from Smyrna in those days was the Model 36, which took the basic architecture of the 10-shot double-stack Glock 30 .45 ACP compact and slimmed it down by two-tenths of an inch, by using a six-round staggered magazine. This was the middle of the Assault Weapon Ban years, and so, reasoning went, slimming down the 19 would make it easier to carry, slimmer in the hand, and would make 10-round staggered magazines native to the gun, rather than the neutered 10-rounders used in the G19 at the time. Over a decade passed and the pistol kept failing to materialize, so firearms trainer Rob Pincus of I.C.E. Training decided to take matters into his own hands and make it happen himself. According to the lore of the Avidity Arms PD10, the concept originated from a barroom bull session between Pincus and some friends in a German pub in 2013. Between that bar napkin sketch and the next summer, actual specifications were firmed up and the actual design of a pistol took place. The goal was a modern striker-fired pistol that was radically slim for easy carry and concealment, had a 10-round capacity, a 4-inch barrel for shootability, and good performance from current cutting-edge 9x19mm jacketed hollow point loads. With his background in training thousands of students, Pincus had definite ideas about what would make for an ideal CCW pistol, and those were all poured into the new design. DETAILS & DESIGN Those ideas start at the very top, with the PD10s sights. The front is a standard dovetail-mounted 0.14-inch Ameriglo CAP blade, with an eye-catching hi-viz green square outline surrounding the tritium vial. And yes, pictured below is how the front sight was installed out of the box. The rear sight is Pincus own design, the Ameriglo I.C.E. CLAW, with its distinctive undercut front to better assist snagging on belts, boot heels, or holster mouths for one-handed manipulations should the shooter find their offside paw out of commission for some reason. Those sights are mounted atop a slide that definitely fulfills one of the primary design criteria for the pistol in that its wafer-thin. The PD10s slide is just one tiny inch wide, and thats as measured with actual RCBS dial calipers, not copied from the manufacturers claims. The top of the slide presents a flat sighting plane interrupted only by the chamber hood, which doubles as the locking shoulder in the modern idiom. Theres also a little pivoting chamber loaded indicator just abaft the ejection port; a metal finger that pokes up to provide visual and tactile confirmation that theres a round in the chamber, similar to the one found on Springfield Armorys XD series of pistols. The nose of the slide features bevels to aid in easy and snag-free holstering. Whats the optic footprint? Good question. Through trial and error we discovered the footprint was compatible with the Holosun 507K, but that information could not be found in the manual or on the webpage at the time of writing. The slide bears evidence of another piece of the I.C.E. Training TTP dogma the cocking serrations at the rear of the slide consist of 10 square contoured cuts that start out vertically from the top of the slide but curve through nearly 90 degrees toward the muzzle. The shape of these serrations is obviously designed to maximize traction when bringing the support hand over the top of the pistol and using the power stroke method of running the slide. The theory behind this technique is that it doesnt rely on fine motor control, and it also gives slightly more impetus to feeding the next round by ensuring the slide is given the full length of travel, powered by a fully compressed recoil spring. This is to further encourage the power stroke method rather than using the thumb to release the slide. The aforementioned release is tucked in close to the slide and hard to activate from above. The uber-low-profile slide release is the widest spot on the pistol. Its a minuscule wart adding a bare fraction of an inch, and its very shape attests to the influence of Pincus on the design of the PD10. It has a profile low enough as well as an engagement positive enough that we were 300 rounds into the test before the slide release could be actuated with a lone thumb. Only the bottom of the tab protruding a hair, so as to facilitate manually locking the slide to the rear for certain administrative pistol manipulations. The frame on the test gun was composed of a gray polymer, with an accessory rail on the dust cover. Its a three-slot Picatinny-type rail, but despite having a barrel length the same as a Glock 19, you wont be fitting any full-size weapon mounted lights to this blaster. No SureFire X300U or Streamlight TLR-1 will fit, nor will a low-profile G19-centric light such as the SureFire XC-1. Youll need to look at lights like the TLR-7 and its ilk. Above and behind the rail on either side of the frame are indentations that Avidity calls Safety Index Points, which provide a tactile reference for the trigger finger when not shooting (as well as someplace to stick your support thumb if you use a thumbs-forward style of shooting grip). When you are shooting, your trigger finger will find a smooth trigger shoe with a curved face and a pivoting steel Glock-style drop safety tab. Feelings about the trigger were mixed. There was resistance to the pull from the start, rather than a lot of takeup or slack, and then a spongy increase in pull before the sear broke abruptly. It was a little vague to even qualify as a rolling break; it was more like pop ping bubble wrap. Increase pressure until you get a squishy POP! Weight measured five and a half pounds on the test sample. You wouldnt want to use this trigger in a bulls-eye match, but it is adequate for Balance of Speed and Precision-style shooting and is plenty safe from NDs caused by woobie checking. The trigger guard is relieved toward the rear and, combined with the high cut tang for the web of the hand, allows a high shooting grip to snug that bore axis down low. The grip itself has a pronounced arch to the backstrap, radically flat sides, and an unusual texture pattern of alternating rows of triangles. The triangles, combined with the molded-in I.C.E. logo and the shape and angle of the grip give the pistol an unusual-yet-distinctive look thats somewhere between phaser from an un-aired Star Trek spinoff and Klingon marital aid. The magazine release is nicely textured, well-positioned, but not reversible. The shape of the frame cutout for the release would seem to indicate that a reversible one may lurk in the pistols future, but the magazines as currently supplied will not support it. Between the single-sided slide stop and the lack of ambidexterity in the mag release, southpaws are going to need to accommodate themselves to the gun rather than vice versa, as though it were 2011 or 1911. That brings us to the most unusual feature of the PD10: the pistol uses 10-round 9mm 1911 magazines. Theyre provided direct from the manufacturer and marked with Aviditys brand, but are strongly reminiscent of Metalforms front-ribbed 9mm design. [An aside: the mag tube of a 1911 is too long fore-and-aft for 9x19mm rounds and so a spacer is usually added. Most commonly its a strip spot welded in the back of the tube, but in this case its a vertical rib molded in the front.] The magazines have a proprietary polymer floorplate cover with a molded-in claw on the front to help aid in ripping the magazine free should one have to clear a gnarly double-feed with only one functional hand. SHOOTING & TESTING We didnt experience any double feeds over the course of testing. Alas, over the course of 400 rounds, we had: >>Five failures to feed, including one extremely exotic one where the unfired Remington 124-grain FMJ round was sticking, projectile-up, through the ejection port. >>One gnarly failure to eject, where the case head of the fired case apparently hit the case mouth of the next round in the mag, causing the extractor claw to pop off the rim and leave the spent case wedged in the feedway between the slide, magazine feed lips, and barrel hood. >>And, finally, five instances of the slide locking back prematurely with one round left in the magazine (one with 124-grain Speer Gold Dot and the other four with Federal 115-grain 9BPLE). Under normal circumstances, our standard fix for this in a 9mm 1911 would be to bust out our stash of 10-round Wilson ETM magazines, which not only make Wilson 9mm 1911s reliable over the course of thousands of rounds of firing but have even turned an old Para Ordnance 9mm LTC from an iffy proposition to a reliable shooter. Alas, the Wilsons use the rear-spacer technique rather than the forward rib, and the differing position in the PD10s magwell means that rear-spacer magazines position the top round too far forward in the feedway to function reliably. Sad trombone. We did successfully get through a box of Winchester 124-grain NATO ball ammo with no malfunctions, as well as a 50-round box of Remington 124-grain Black Belt JHP, but having to test rounds to see if they work is an uncomfortable flashback. LOOSE ROUNDS While its easy to ask Why didnt Avidity Arms just use proven magazines like the Glock 43X/48 or the SIG P365? Or even design the pistol to use Wilson ETMs?, its important to remember that the Glock and SIG didnt exist when the PD10 was first planned, and the Wilson 9mm ETM was only well-known among aficionados of 9mm 1911s, who werent nearly as common 10 years ago. Back then, 9mm 1911s were a lot more of a niche product. The PD10 was comfortable to carry, reasonably accurate, and had ergonomics that lived up to its design intent, but our test sample was still pretty fussy about ammunition selection. If you want to fiddle with ammo choices and magazines, it might be worth the tradeoff or you could buy a 9mm M1911 On February 21, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with the "Servant of the People" party faction in the Verkhovna Rada. Among other things, the head of state ordered an increase in the salaries of the military to UAH 200,000 per month. ADVERTISIMENT MP Yuriy Mysyagin wrote about this on his Telegram channel. According to him, the increase is necessary for those soldiers "who have been on the front line for two years." The head of the Servant faction, David Arakhamia, said that at the meeting with the president, "we talked about the most important things for our Victory - the front, the economy, the help of partners, and the preservation of unity in society." Accordingly, Zelensky gave tasks to the parliament and MPs. "There is a lot of work to do. But since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Parliament has shown its ability to cope with the most difficult tasks. We will keep this pace until Victory," the MP added. In Ukraine, the amount of remuneration for military personnel has not been changed since February. However, some changes in salaries took place several months ago. The amount of military salaries depends primarily on the tasks they perform and their deployment - read more about this here. ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZ.UA reported, in 2024, one of the main tasks is to protect the sky and our frontline positions from Russian air and missile strikes. Zelensky mentioned this in an address to citizens on the evening of February 21. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. Europeans continue to support Ukraine, which has been the victim of a full-scale Russian invasion. However, two years into the full-scale war, only one in ten Europeans believe that Ukraine is capable of defeating Russia. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated in a report by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), whose findings are cited by The Guardian. The researchers state that unlike last year's study, when Europeans were convinced that Ukraine should return all the occupied territories, the position of a "compromise settlement" prevails now. The authors of the study "Wars and Elections: How European Leaders Can Maintain Public Support for Ukraine" state that the majority of European citizens continue to support Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. However, the number of those who believe in Ukraine's ability to emerge victorious from the war has significantly decreased. Today, only one in ten Europeans is optimistic about the future. At the same time, the opinion that the war is likely to end in a certain "compromise" is becoming more widespread. ADVERTISIMENT "The change in sentiment - unlike this time last year, more Europeans said that Ukraine should return all its lost territories - will require politicians to take a more 'realistic' approach, focusing on defining what an acceptable peace would actually mean," the report's authors model changes in European foreign policy. The Guardian also quotes the opinion of ECFR co-founder and director Mark Leonard. "To justify continued European support for Ukraine, EU leaders will need to change their rhetoric, the way they talk about the war," he said. A social survey commissioned by the ECFR showed that most Europeans are "desperate to prevent a Russian victory" but do not believe that Kyiv can defeat the aggressor on the battlefield. The poll was conducted in January in 12 EU member states, including France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. It reflected the mood of Europeans after the end of the Ukrainian counteroffensive in southern Ukraine, but at that time Russia had not yet been able to occupy Avdiivka, having won its first "victory" after capturing Bakhmut in Donetsk region last year. ADVERTISIMENT According to the poll, only one in ten Europeans currently believes that Ukraine will win on the battlefield, while twice as many (20%) predicted a Russian victory. Even in the most optimistic member states surveyed - Poland, Sweden and Portugal - less than one in five (17%) believe that Kyiv can win. The majority of respondents - about 37% - believe that the end of the war is most likely to be a "compromise settlement." At the same time, in several countries, this outcome was called the optimal one. For example, in Sweden (50%), Portugal (48%) and Poland (47%), respondents were more likely to say that Europe should help Ukraine fight back, while in Hungary (64%), Greece (59%), Italy (52%) and Austria (49%), respondents preferred to push Kyiv to a settlement. In France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain, opinions were more evenly divided. ADVERTISIMENT "The survey showed that many Europeans increasingly consider Russia's war against Ukraine to be a matter of immediate concern, with 33% saying it has had a greater impact on their country - and Europe (29%) - than the war in the Middle East (compared to 5% who said the opposite in both cases)," the publication writes. Earlier, OBOZ.UA told which countries Ukrainians consider friendly. In particular, the attitude of our citizens to Poland has recently changed. Sociologists also released the results of a study on how many Ukrainians are ready to endure the war as long as necessary. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! For the second year in a row and sixth time in 12 years, the University of Georgia has been named a top producer of Fulbright U.S. students, according to a UGA Media Relations press release. Eleven UGA students and recent alumni were offered Fulbright awards for 2023-2024, and eight were able to accept. Five are teaching English in countries including Spain, the Slovak Republic, Taiwan and Ecuador. Three are studying or conducting research in India, Ireland and Taiwan. 'Personal income tax is growing by 27 per cent and most refunds have already been issued.' "Suppose you are a taxpayer and you have been filing returns and there is some demand in our registers. But when I approach you, you say you have already paid the demand and have the challan with you. But the department does not have it. There could be several such instances," Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) Chairman Nitin Gupta tells Indivjal Dhasmana/Business Standard. You have set a conservative target for corporation tax receipts in revised estimates for FY24. Figures released by the Controller General of Accounts showed that you have already received Rs 7.2 trillion till December 2023, which is only Rs 2 trillion less than BE for FY24. Don't you think the BE could be easily overshot? Normally, the demand for refunds is more in corporation tax. We are focusing on appeals to be decided by CIT (Commission of Income Tax) appeals. We have to give appeal effect orders. We have to issue refunds to them. Several companies file returns in December. Refunds are not issued to them because of pending assessments. So, I have to factor in the likely higher outgo of refunds in case of corporate tax than that in the personal income tax. The personal income tax in RE is pegged higher by 13.5 per cent over BE for FY24. Even then, BE for FY25 was just 13 per cent higher over RE of FY24. Don't you think the projection for personal income tax is modest? Personal income tax is growing by 27 per cent and most refunds have already been issued. As of now, I believe projections are okay. If need be, we will work it out at the time of the regular Budget. While you have kept the direct tax-GDP ratio high at 6.7 per cent, buoyancy is only 1.24 for FY25. At a time when the economy is recovering and private investments are expected to come in, buoyancy could have been kept higher. Your take. Yes, companies will be paying more taxes, but the rate has gone down. The growth of corporate tax collections has fallen because of the concessions. The average annual growth in corporation tax receipts fell to 8.5 per cent between 2018-2019 and 2022-2023, from around 11 per cent earlier. The Interim Budget is silent on the sun set date of March 31, 2024 for manufacturing companies to avail 15 per cent corporation tax rate. Is it being extended? No, it is not being extended. The government will withdraw petty demands of up to Rs 10,000 and Rs 25,000 for previous specific periods. Don't you think this is an insult to the honest tax payers? They could have also waited for such withdrawal of demands and not paid the taxes? One has to understand the perspective. Suppose you are a taxpayer and you have been filing returns and there is some demand in our registers. But when I approach you, you say you have already paid the demand and have the challan with you. But the department does not have it. There could be several such instances. We can't go to each taxpayer, given that the number is huge and the involved resources are disproportionate to the outcome. The proposal is to extinguish small demands to build trust with taxpayers and keep books of the department clean. In the previous Budget, you had made the new tax regime more attractive. Has it found any takers? We think 60 per cent of the taxpayers will shift to the new tax regime during 2023-2024 financial year (assessment year 2024-2025). It is a default regime now. The Interim Budget did not give any statement on pillar 2 of framework on the base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS). Wait till next month. That is when the global deliberations are expected to conclude. After that a decision will be made. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Karnataka high court on Wednesday refused to stay an emergency shareholder meeting called by select investors of Think and Learn Pvt Ltd -- the owner of Byju's -- to oust the company's Founder and CEO Byju Raveendran and his family from the leadership in the edtech firm. Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Reuters Byju's had approached the Karnataka HC seeking a stay on the EGM but the court only gave an interim relief that any resolution passed at the EGM on Friday cannot be implemented before the next court hearing. "It is further submitted that the conditions for convening the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) are not complied and no notice is issued as contemplated under Section 100 (3) of the Companies Act 2013," the court order said. It further passed an interim order that "the decision, if any taken by the shareholders of the petitioner company in the EGM scheduled on February 23, 2024, shall not be given effect to, till the next date of hearing," the order said. Select shareholders of Byju's have issued an EGM notice to be held on February 23, demanding a change in leadership of the edtech firm while alleging several anomalies in their functioning. The notice has been backed by General Atlantic, Peak XV, Sofina, Chan Zuckerberg, Owl, and Sands, who jointly account for about 30 per cent stake in Byju's. "The Karnataka High Court, in response to a petition by Think & Learn Pvt Ltd (the parent company of Byju's), has passed an order stating that any resolutions proposed to be passed in the 23rd February EGM called by select investors as invalid until the final hearing and disposition of this petition," Byju's said in a statement. Byju's had filed the petition before the court arguing that certain investors, including General Atlantic, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, MIH EdTech Investments, Own Ventures, Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia Capital India & SEA), SCI Investments, SCHF PV Mauritius, Sands Capital Global Innovation Fund, Sofina, and T Rowe Price Associates, had violated the Articles of Association (AoA), the Shareholders' Agreement (SHA), and the Companies Act, 2013 by calling for an EGM on February 23, 2024. "The court's decision to grant immediate relief to Byju's by invalidating the resolutions passed by the EGM, underscores its recognition of the need to protect Byju's best interests, and uphold the principles of corporate governance. "The ruling ensures that the company can continue its operations with stability and focus, safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders," Byju's statement said. Investor's sources, however, said it is incorrect to say the court has invalidated the resolutions. The source said the EGM will go ahead for a vote to remove Byju as the CEO. "EGM to continue -- court order does not prohibit it in any way. Majority of investors are expected to vote in favour of removal of CEO," the source said. Earlier in the day, Byju in a letter to shareholders, appealed to all investors to participate in the $200 million rights issue floated by the company. He later shared that the rights issue has been fully subscribed. 'Another term for the government under the prime minister would likely be a step forward on the path to Hindu Rashtra.' 'No question of going back or any slowing down.' IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the 'Jan Jatiya Mahasabha', in Jhabua, February 11, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo 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 two of a multi-part interview: Part 1 of the Interview: 'You can't compare Modi and Dr Singh' Another criticism against this government is that it doesn't acknowledge or accept the plurality of this country unlike the ideology followed the Congress party till now. This government follows the one nation, one culture, or Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan idea.... Large sections of people share these concerns. The perception of those who are not ardent supporters of the current regime is that the government is guided by Hindutva ideology. This perception is mostly based on what the media reports project practically every day. Some of the statements coming out of some BJP leaders also lend credence to the perception. Is it only a perception? Are they not pursuing the Hindutva agenda? Some of the steps taken by the government do give the clear impression that it is pursuing the Hindutva agenda as it is commonly understood and interpreted specially against the background of the recent widely celebrated consecration of the Sree Ram temple. Mixing religion and politics has become a winning strategy in electoral politics. IMAGE: Then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi wave to supporters in Bhuj, January 14, 2004. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters Do you feel if Modi were to come back to power in 2024, they will try to make India a Hindu Rashtra? According to present indications, another term for the government under the prime minister would likely be a step forward on the path to Hindu Rashtra. No question of going back or any slowing down. The minority communities feel nervous about the way India is moving, and feel alienated... Yes, whatever be the justification or provocations, large sections of the minority community are feeling highly concerned, and I don't blame them for that. First of all, let us understand that India is a country where nearly 80% of the people are in one way or the other Hindus. The perception of the minorities has to be seen against this reality and the reported instances of their ill treatment in different parts of the country and the Hindutva rhetoric. You were there when Vajpayee was the prime minister. How different was the ideology pursued by Vajpayee and Narendra Modi? Well, I mentioned in the beginning that there is no comparison between Manmohan Singh and Modi. Similarly, in spite of their common RSS background, Vajpayee and Modi are poles apart. Vajpayee was more of a consummate consensus builder. He was a gentleman politician in the mould of a Manmohan Singh or a Nehru. IMAGE: People click pictures as they welcome Modi during a roadshow, in Kochi, January 17, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Nehru used to say that minorities should never feel alienated... Yes, Nehru said that about the minority communities, and now he is being accused of minority appeasement. Manmohan Singh also felt the same way not only about minorities but about the state governments run by non-Congress parties. He used to repeatedly remind us around him to be most helpful to Opposition party governments in states, and ensure that their concerns are duly addressed. He was very particular about Government of India being fair and equitable. IMAGE: T K A Nair IMAGE: T K A Nair But today, all the non-BJP ruled states feel totally neglected... Yes, regrettably and I feel very concerned about the recent developments in Centre-State relations. The relationship between the governor and the chief minister has deteriorated so badly in some states that they do not even look at each other. The impression that Raj Bhavans are used by the central government to pursue its own chosen agenda of governance is gaining ground. Opposition ruled states feel discriminated against. The Constitutionally ordained federal polity is under severe stress and strain. States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have come out openly against their governors and gone to court which is a matter of serious concern. Good governance and welfare of the people suffer in the process. It is high time the Government of India stepped in to ensure the smooth functioning of State Governments under the provisions of the constitution. Dormant institutional mechanisms for facilitating smooth Centre-State relations can be revived for the purpose. Part 3 of the Interview: 'You need not just one strong leader, you need a strong Opposition' Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com Farmers leaders on Wednesday put the 'Delhi Chalo' march on hold for two days after a protester was killed and about 12 police personnel injured in clashes at Khanauri, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. IMAGE: Security personnel stand guard at the Khanauri Border in Sangrur district on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, during the farmers 'Delhi Chalo' march. Photograph: ANI Photo Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said that they will decide the next course of action on Friday evening. Punjab farmers at Khanauri and Shambhu had resumed their agitation early in the morning after a two-day lull following the fourth round of talks on Sunday night with a panel of three Union ministers in an attempt to break the deadlock. Police fired tear gas shells at the two border points multiple times to disperse groups of protesters when they attempted to move towards the layers of barricades stalling their march to the national capital. Earlier in the day, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, who is among the Union ministers engaging with the farmer leaders, called for further talks and appealed to the protesters to maintain peace. Thousands of farmers remain camped at Khanauri and Shambhu with their tractor-trolleys and trucks agitating for their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops and farm debt waiver. Farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa identified the dead farmer as Subhkaran Singh (21), a resident of Baloke village in Punjab's Bathinda district. Patiala-based Rajindra Hospital's medical superintendent H S Rekhi told reporters that three people, one of them dead, were brought to the hospital from Khanauri. The deceased had an injury to his head and the other two are stable, Rekhi said. A Haryana police officer said around 12 police personnel were injured when they were attacked with lathis and stones thrown at them in Khanauri, located in Punjab's Sangrur district, close to the border with Haryana's Jind. Talking to reporters at Shambhu, Pandher said farmers will review the situation that developed at Khanauri. "We will discuss the whole issue and the next decision will be announced on Friday evening," he said. The farmers claimed that Haryana Police personnel fired rubber bullets, besides tear gas shells. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were seen at the protest sites, and police had cautioned that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. Many protesting farmers were seen wearing masks and glasses to protect themselves from tear gas. Drones were used by police to keep an eye on the activities of the farmers on the other side of the barricades and drop tear gas shells. During the last round of talks, which ended past midnight Sunday, the panel of three Union ministers -- Munda, Piyush Goyal and Nityananad Rai -- had proposed buying five crops -- moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton -- from farmers at MSP for five years through central agencies. Speaking to PTI later, Munda exuded confidence that a solution to the demands of the farmers can be found through negotiations. "Farmers are across the country. While making a policy, it is important to keep in mind the interest of the farmers of the entire country. Keeping this in mind, we will work towards resolving their concerns in the coming days," he said. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the protest. Several farmer organisations condoled the death of the farmer. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has held the government responsible for the situation and called a meeting on Thursday. "The SKM strongly protests the brutal police repression and murder of farmer Subhkaran Singh of Baloke village, Bhatinda district, in police firing in the Haryana-Punjab border," it said in a statement. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said history will certainly demand an account of farmers' killings from the BJP -- which is in power at the Centre. Addressing protesters at Shambhu in the morning, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal asked farmers to maintain peace and calm if they wanted to win. "Do you want to win or not?" he asked. He also mentioned the "victory" of farmers during the 2020-21 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws. Dallewal cautioned the farmers to be wary of elements who could damage the agitation. In a post on X earlier, the Haryana Police asked owners of excavators to withdraw their machines from the protest sites. If they do not do so, action will be taken, it said. "For owners and operators of poclains, JCBs: Please do not provide your equipment to the protestors and withdraw them from the protest site if already done, as they may be used to cause harm to security forces. It is a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable," police said in a post on X. The Haryana Police on Tuesday had urged its Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border points, saying protesters might use these to break barricades. These could pose a threat to security forces, Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapoor had said in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart Gaurav Yadav. The farmers are also demanding the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and "justice" for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. Amid suspense over the next political move of Congress veteran Kamal Nath, several local leaders of the party from his stronghold of Chhindwara district joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday. IMAGE: Speaker of the Madhya Pradesh assembly Narendra Singh Tomar with senior Congress leader Kamal Nath on the first day of the budget session of the state assembly, in Bhopal, February 7, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Welcoming them into the BJP fold, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav cryptically said many people are feeling anxious and they will eventually join the saffron party in the coming days. The Congressmen who crossed over to the saffron fold in the presence of Yadav included state Congress general secretary Ujjwal Singh Chauhan, councillors, sarpanches, janpad members, and workers. A Congress spokesperson said the Grand Old Party is not affected by deserters. "Many people are feeling anxious. If not today, but tomorrow, they will join the BJP family. Nobody in the world will be able to prevent this from happening," the chief minister said while addressing a public meeting. He also appealed to the people to ensure the BJP's victory in the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency. Chhindwara, represented by Kamal Nath for nine terms in the past, is currently held by his son Nakul Nath. It is the only constituency which the BJP failed to wrest from the Congress in the 2019 elections when the saffron party swept Madhya Pradesh by winning 28 of the 29 seats. Chhindwara district BJP president claimed 1,500 Congressmen, including over 700 from the newly-created Pandhurna district, joined the BJP. The new entrants in BJP include Pandhurna Nagar Palika chairman Sandeep Ghatode, Nagar Palika councillors, Pandhurna district janpad members, 16 sarpanchs, and others. Pandhurna is one of the seven assembly segments under the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency. "I came to Chhindwara today to thank the people of Madhya Pradesh for electing the BJP to power with a mandate of 163 seats (in assembly elections)," Yadav said. The chief minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various developmental projects worth Rs 104 crore. "No force in the world would be able to stop Madhya Pradesh from developing under the leadership of PM Modi. This is the time of Modi and the BJP government. It is the government of the poor. More than 25 crore people could come out of poverty in the country, including 2.5 crore in MP, only because of Modi," he said. Yadav also took out a Jan Abhar Yatra from the Imlikheda airstrip to the venue of the public meeting. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Anand Bakshi said the party and the organisation will not be affected if some workers cross over to other parties. "However, the question is what will be the position of such people in other parties? They derived strength from the Congress organisation," he said. The speculations about Kamal Nath's next political move refuse to die down even though party leaders were at pains to assert that he would stay with the Grand Old Party which shaped his political career. Congress general secretary Bhanwar Jitendra Singh on Tuesday said the speculation of Nath joining the BJP is not true and claimed that such talks were a creation of the media and the saffron party. A party leader had said Nath would participate in the Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra after it enters Madhya Pradesh on March 2. Notably, Nath and other leaders virtually attended a meeting to review preparations for the yatra a day earlier. In his long and illustrious legal career, Nariman argued in several landmark cases, including the Bhopal gas tragedy case, TMA Pai case, Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case and the famous case of the National Judicial Appointments Commission, which was struck down by the Supreme Court. IMAGE: Appointed additional solicitor general of India in May 1972, Nariman resigned from the post just a day after Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency on June 26, 1975. Photograph: ANI Photo The judiciary's moral compass who blended ethicality with intellect, constitutional jurist Fali Sam Nariman will go down in legal history for his pivotal contribution to cases that have shaped India -- the basic structure doctrine judgement in Kesavananda Bharati being just one of them. Nariman, variously termed Bhishma Pitamah, conscience keeper and the man with a giant intellect, died in New Delhi on Wednesday. He was 95. The eminent jurist and author, a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan in 2007 and the Padma Bhushan in 1991, was a renowned votary of civil liberties and secularism. He was famously outspoken, a bold voice unhesitatingly taking on the state on a range of issues and articulating his views on ills plaguing the society at large. For Nariman, a guiding light for lawyers down the decades, it didn't matter who was in power. Appointed additional solicitor general of India in May 1972, he resigned from the post just a day after Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency on June 26, 1975. Rare those days, and even now, this possibly deprived him of opportunities in the latter half of the career to serve the nation as the solicitor general or attorney general for India. That forthrightness stayed his calling card right till the end. On February 9, just 12 days before he breathed his last, Nariman spoke at an IPI-India function. A "dissident press" is a "free press" and it is essential for democracy, the nonagenarian jurist said in what was possibly his last public speech. He described India slipping ranks in the press freedom index as a "matter of grave concern for democracy". A week later, on February 16, Nariman wrote to lawyer Prashant Bhushan to congratulate him for his victory in the electoral bond scheme case. His passing away at this critical juncture is an enormous loss for our country," Bhushan said in a post on X. As rich tributes poured in from across the nation, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud termed him a "great giant of an intellectual". Former CJI N V Ramana said he was a conscience keeper for judicial institutions. Through his arguments in court rooms, widely read newspaper columns, public lectures, parliamentary interventions and televised interviews he has educated generations of legal professionals and general public alike, Ramana said in a statement. Nariman, who was born in Rangoon (now Yangon) to a well-off business executive, joined the Bar as a lawyer in 1950 in Bombay, now Mumbai, and remained active for over seven decades. He initially practiced in Bombay and remained there till 1972 and then shifted to Delhi to practice law in the Supreme Court. It was a long and illustrious legal career. Nariman assisted Nanabhoy Palkhivala in the Kesavananda Bharati case, the most significant case in independent India. The 1973 verdict laid down "basic structure doctrine" of the Constitution, clipping the Parliament's power to amend the Constitution and simultaneously giving the judiciary the authority to review any amendment on grounds of its violation. After the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, Nariman argued in favour of the Union Carbide Corporation but was candid enough to admit later that it was a mistake. Later, he was also instrumental in getting a deal between victims and the company outside court. He represented the Gujarat government in the Narmada Rehabilitation case, but went on to resign following news reports of attacks on Christian community and the burning of copies of the Bible. Nariman appeared and argued in the famous TMA Pai case, Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case and the matter of the National Judicial Appointments Commission, which was struck down by the Supreme Court. The top court in the TMA Pai Foundation case recognised the autonomy of private educational institutions under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution, and allowed them to operate without excessive governmental interference. Nariman also argued for the Supreme Court Advocates-on-record Association in its challenge to the National Judicial Appointment Commission, which was tasked with the responsibility of making judicial appointments. The top court quashed the NJAC on grounds that it violated the freedom of judiciary, one of the basic structures of the Constitution. He was a lead counsel in the SP Gupta case, also known as the first judges cases, which finally led to the collegiums system of appointment of judges in higher judiciary. Former Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalitha had hired him to represent her in the disproportionate assets case. Nariman secured her bail from the top court. Nariman was also a prolific author. His "Before the Memory Fades" is a professional guide for new lawyers across the nation. He has also written "The State of the Nation", "India's Legal System: Can it be Saved?" and "God Save the Hon'ble Supreme Court". Nariman was nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha in November 1999. Fali Nariman's son, Rohinton Nariman, was a Supreme Court judge. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the country has lost a towering figure of intellect and wisdom. "The country has lost an epitome of what righteousness stood for. A doyen, paragon and a legend in his own lifetime has left us, leaving the jurisprudence enriched by his immense contribution. I have always learnt something new by merely appearing even against him," the law officer said. Away from the courtroom and legal circles, Nariman was a familiar figure for residents of Hauz Khas who would see him walk regularly, even in the cold winter months of December and January. And on Wednesday, he just walked into the sunset. An era ended. The Haryana government on Wednesday extended the ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts till February 23 in the wake of the ongoing farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' agitation. IMAGE: Farmers, who are marching towards New Delhi to press for better crop prices promised to them in 2021, run for cover amidst tear gas fired by police to disperse them at Shambhu barrier, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states, India, February 21, 2024. Photograph: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters The government said in an order that mobile internet services would be banned in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa districts. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the 'Delhi Chalo' agitation to put pressure on the Centre for a law on minimum support price for crops among other demands. Farmers leaders on Wednesday put the 'Delhi Chalo' march on hold for two days after a protester was killed and about 12 police personnel injured in clashes at Khanauri, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. Thousands of protesting farmers continue to camp at the Shambhu and Khanauri points of the Punjab-Haryana border to press for their demands. On Monday, the farmer leaders taking part in the agitation rejected the BJP-led Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by government agencies for five years, saying it was not in favour of farmers. Farmers from Punjab began their march to Delhi on Tuesday but were stopped by security personnel at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab's border with Haryana. The protesters have stayed put at the two border points since then. Meanwhile, in the order that extended the mobile internet ban further till Friday, additional chief secretary of Haryana TVSN Prasad said, "After assessment of the current prevailing law & order situation in the state, the conditions are still critical and tense in the district Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa." "...There is a clear potential of disruption of public utilities, damage to public assets and amenities and disturbance of public law and order in above-mentioned districts on account of misuse of internet services by way of spread of inflammatory material and false rumours," Prasad said. The order has been issued under Section 5 of Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules 2017. According to the order, the suspension of mobile internet services, bulk SMS (excluding banking and mobile recharge) and all dongle services, etc. provided on mobile networks (with the exception of voice calls) in the jurisdiction of the seven districts has been been extended till February 23. The suspension has been extended several times before ie, on February 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20. The order is extended to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order in the districts, it said. The Haryana Police on Wednesday fired tear gas shells to disperse farmers from Punjab at Shambhu and Khanauri border points as they tried to move towards barricades stalling their protest march to Delhi. IMAGE: Farmers, marching towards New Delhi to press for better crop prices promised to them in 2021, throw tear gas back towards police, at Shambhu, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states on February 14, 2024. Photograph: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters Thousands farmers resumed their agitation two days after the fourth round of talks with the government over their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver, failed. Their 'Delhi Chalo' march began on February 13 and since then, farmers are gathered at the border points along with their tractor-trolleys, mini-vans and pickup trucks. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were seen at the protest sites, with police cautioning that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, who is among the three Union ministers engaging with the farmers' leaders, has appealed to the protesters to maintain peace and resolve issues through discussions. He has invited the leaders for a fifth round of talks on all issues, including that related to MSP. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse some farmers who started moving towards the multiple layers of barricades at the Shambhu border point near Ambala in Haryana. By mid-afternoon, there had been at least three rounds of tear gas shelling. A drone was also deployed by security personnel at Shambhu to drop tear gas shells. In Khanauri too, police fired tear gas shells to disperse farmers as they moved towards the barricades. Following the tear gas shelling, a chaotic situation was witnessed at the protest sites with the farmers running for cover as the smoke enveloped the area. Many protesting farmers were seen wearing masks and glasses to protect themselves from the gas. Drones are also being used by police to keep an eye on the activities of the farmers on the other side of the barricades. The farmer leaders have asked the protesters to maintain calm and peace. Volunteers deputed by the farmer leaders at the protest sites have been asking young farmers not to move ahead. Addressing protesters at Shambhu, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal asked them to maintain peace and calm if they wanted to win. "Do you want to win or not?" he asked the farmers. He also mentioned the 'victory' of farmers during the 2020-21 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws. Dallewal cautioned the farmers to be wary of elements who could damage the agitation. Earlier in the day, while speaking to reporters, he said farmers will march towards Delhi in a peaceful manner. "Our intention is not to disturb peace," Dallewal asserted. While accusing the Centre of indulging in 'delaying tactics' over the farmers' demands, Dallewal said it should take a decision in their favour. He also condemned the government for installing multiple layers of barricades at the Punjab-Haryana border points to prevent the farmers from heading towards Delhi. In a post on X, the Haryana Police asked owners of excavators to withdraw their machines from the protest sites. If they do not do so, action will be taken, it said. 'For owners and operators of poclains, JCBs: Please do not provide your equipment to the protestors and withdraw them from the protest site if already done, as they may be used to cause harm to security forces. It is a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable,' police said in a post on X. The Haryana Police on Tuesday had urged its Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border points, saying protesters might use these to break barricades. These could pose a threat to security forces, Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapoor had said in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart Gaurav Yadav. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the government to accept the farmers' demands. The protesting farmers have rejected the BJP-led Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years. This was proposed in the fourth round of talks. Talks between the farmer leaders and three Union ministers -- Piyush Goyal, Munda and Nityananad Rai -- have been held on February 8, 12, 15 and 18. The farmers are also demanding the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and 'justice' for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. Poland is afraid of becoming the Kremlin's next victim, but at the same time, Warsaw is going out of its way to reduce Kyiv's chances of winning: blocking borders and starting a trade war. This is because the electoral interests of politicians are more important than national security: the struggle for voters overcomes survival instincts. ADVERTISIMENT All these "folk festivals" of carriers and now farmers are organized by the Polish right-wing radical party Confederation, which is indirectly supported by the right-wing presidential PiS of Andrzej Duda. They have stirred up anti-Ukrainian sentiment, and now they will try to regain political control of Poland. In last year's parliamentary elections, PiS came in first, but failed to form a government because its ideological pro-Russian partner, Confederation, received too few votes. As a result, Donald Tusk became prime minister, uniting the left. On April 7 and 21, local elections will be held in Poland, and the right-wing nationalist tandem wants to seize power at the grassroots level. Among other things, they are going to "cut" votes on the wave of Ukrainophobia: most of our citizens living or passing through Poland are unanimous: empathy has suddenly turned to hatred. ADVERTISIMENT The flaw of xenophobia has long been ingrained in the mentality of Polish society. The authorities have repeatedly apologized for the genocide against Jews during World War II, but anti-Semitism has not faded away to this day. For example, one of the leaders of the Confederation, Grzegorz Braun, doused a Hanukkah candle with a fire extinguisher in the Sejm, saying that in this way he restored a state of balance and normalcy. This behavior appeals to voters: Poles have long voted for the right-wing radical Self-Defense party. Andrzej Lepper, who mobilized the rural electorate using the same methods. The saddest thing is that the new leftist Prime Minister Tusk has also started playing this game: on the eve of the election, he is not comfortable "standing against the wind" and is passively playing along with this whole campaign. ADVERTISIMENT The protest flash mob has another component besides the political one: the trade blockade of Ukraine. It would seem that Russia has nothing to do with it. Previously, the "Protestants" talked about protecting the Polish market, but now they have suddenly changed their minds: they say that Ukrainians have pushed them out of the German and other European markets. But there is one catch: in 2023/24, Muscovites increased grain sales 2.3 times. At the moment, they sell slightly less grain to the EU than Ukraine, but... no Polish "patriot" is blocking Russian grain: the Kremlin needs to regain the markets of the European Community, and "useful idiots" are helping a lot. An interesting fact: in 2022/23, Poland alone "passed through" 12 million tons of grain from Russia and only 4.3 million tons from Ukraine. This doesn't mean that this grain was bought in the EU, but the flows are impressive nonetheless. ADVERTISIMENT In the near future, farmers from France, Germany, Romania, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Spain, etc. promise to join the Poles. But their slogans are somewhat different: they are no longer calling on Putin to put things in order with the "Banderites" and their own government, as they did in Poland. Europeans are opposed to Brussels' policy. This is a consequence of the activity of the European [far] right. Much of the right-wing should be called not so much pro-Russian as parasites feeding on Euroscepticism. They are increasingly entering national parliaments, and the EU's economic problems allow them to rightly look for a target audience for manipulation. And in this case, it is farmers, whose hands they use to both warm up their ratings and undermine Brussels' economic policy. And in this, their interests coincide with Moscow. Although the leaders of the European right, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovakian Robert Fico, are openly pouring water on the mill of Putin's interests. ADVERTISIMENT The main goal of this whole protest carnival is to distance themselves from Brussels, which means disrupting European unity. The trade blockade of Ukraine is an additional pleasant bonus for the [un]secret associate and benefactor from Moscow. The photo shows the President of Poland. The designer is a level 7 genius. The Congress on Wednesday alleged that the Income Tax department has "withdrawn" a sum of Rs 65 crore from its accounts in different banks "undemocratically" even when the case pertaining to their return for previous years is sub judice. IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi being felicitated during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Amethi. Photograph: ANI Photo Party treasurer Ajay Maken has claimed that "democracy will be over in the country if the action of probe agencies goes unchecked" and said the Congress has full faith in the judiciary. "The Income Tax department had written to various banks to withdraw a sum of Rs 65 crore from different bank accounts of the Congress and Indian Youth Congress in view of the demand raised by the Income Tax authorities earlier, despite the appellate authorities hearing the case," Maken told PTI. He said even when the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, which the Congress had moved against the Income Tax department's claim of Rs 210 crore as recovery for "discrepancies" in previous tax returns has been stayed and a lien has been marked, the tax authorities have resorted to "undemocratic action" by taking out the amount from their accounts. He said the banks have been directed by the tax authorities to take out the money in the form of demand drafts in favour of the Income Tax department. The Congress leader said the party had written to its bankers not to withdraw any amount as the case was sub judice and hearing in the case before the I-T Tribunal was still on. "Yesterday (Tuesday), the Income Tax department mandated banks to transfer over Rs 65 crores from Congress, IYC (Indian Youth Congress) and NSUI (National Students Union of India) accounts to the government -- Rs 5 crore from IYC and NSUI and Rs 60.25 crore from INC, marking a concerning move by the BJP government," Maken said in a post on X. "Is it common for national political parties to pay Income Tax? No. Does the BJP pay Income Tax? No. Why then is the Congress Party facing an unprecedented demand of Rs 210 crore," he asked. "During today's ITAT proceedings, we presented our case. The hearing is set to continue tomorrow. The funds in question were raised through grassroots efforts, including crowd funding and membership drives by the IYC and NSUI," the Congress leader said. "This situation raises a crucial question about the state of democracy. Is it under threat? Our hope now lies with the judiciary. #Democracy #Judiciary," he said in the post. Giving further details, he said while Rs 60.25 crore has been taken out in the form of demand drafts from Congress' three bank accounts, a sum of Rs 5 crore has been withdrawn from the accounts of Indian Youth Congress. He said while the sum of Rs 17.65 crore has been taken from the Bank of Baroda, K G Marg, Connaught Place branch; Rs 41.85 crore from Union Bank of India, Connaught Place branch; and another Rs 74.62 lakh from the Punjab National Bank account of the Congress party, totalling Rs 60.25 crore. "Alarming Update: Concerns rise over the actions of Central Government agencies, potentially threatening the multi-party system in India. If unchecked, democracy in India will be over. "Without intervention of judiciary, our democratic principles will be endangered," Maken said in a post on X. In another post in Hindi, he said, "Since yesterday evening, Congress has been a victim of the anti-democratic attitude of the government machinery. "We have full faith in the judicial system of India," he said, adding that he would share more information on the issue soon. The Income Tax authorities heard the matter on Wednesday and the hearing will continue on Thursday. The Congress' main bank accounts were frozen on Friday over an Income Tax demand of Rs 210 crore but an I-T appellate tribunal later allowed it to operate them pending a further hearing next week, a huge relief for the party which said the move had impacted all political activity. Maken, who had earlier addressed a press conference to announce that Income Tax authorities had frozen its accounts, said the tribunal has put a lien of Rs 115 crore on its accounts and the party has been allowed to spend over and above that. Party leader Vivek Tankha, who appeared before the tribunal against the order, earlier said he told the tribunal that the Congress would not be able to participate in the "festival of elections" if its accounts remain frozen. Several party leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi, expressed their outrage and alleged that the government's move was an attack on democracy. Maken said democracy was in danger in the country and detailed the tribunal's order. 'Namaste behno aur bhaiyo, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon,' the familiar greeting and the instantly identifiable voice coasted on airwaves into countless homes every Wednesday on Radio Ceylon from 1952 to 1988, still evoking strong nostalgia amongst listeners. Ameen Sayani, radio's most recognised voice that struck an instant chord with millions of Indians who tuned in to Binaca Geetmala every week for 42 years, has died. He was 91. Sayani, who represented the golden age of radio, suffered a heart attack Tuesday evening and was taken to a hospital in south Mumbai but could not be saved, his son Rajil told PTI. "He passed away last night of a heart attack at the H N Reliance hospital. He was rushed to the hospital last evening around 6 pm after he complained of chest pain. They tried to revive him but couldn't," Rajil said. The last rites will be held on Thursday. 'Namaste behno aur bhaiyo, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon,' the familiar greeting and the instantly identifiable voice coasted on airwaves into countless homes every Wednesday on Radio Ceylon from 1952 to 1988, still evoking strong nostalgia amongst listeners. After 1988, Binaca Geetmala moved to All India Radio's Vividh Bharati where it ruled the charts till 1994, making it one of the longest running programmes on radio. Sayani, who was born in Mumbai in a multilingual family on December 21, 1932, compered, presented and voiced over 50,000 programmes and over 19,000 jingles. He also conducted the Bournvita Quiz Contest for eight years, taking over after the death of his brother Hamid Sayani. Besides, Sayani's interviews with legends such as Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar are still special. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among the many from all walks of life who condoled the death of the radioman, who it felt established a one-on-one bond with each listener through his voice that radiated warmth and cheer. 'The demise of Shri Ameen Sayani ji marks the end of an era for radio listeners in India and many countries. He had created a special place in the hearts of people with his natural style of presenting radio programmes, impressive voice and unique flow...,' President Murmu said in a post on X. The prime minister said the radio presenter's golden voice on the airwaves had a charm and warmth that endeared him to people across generations. 'Through his work, he played an important role in revolutionising Indian broadcasting and nurtured a very special bond with his listeners. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family, admirers and all radio lovers. May his soul rest in peace,' he posted. Sayani demonstrated a creative flair since childhood and started writing for his mother's fortnightly journal Rehbar when he was just 13. His elder brother, Hamid Sayani, who was already a well-known broadcaster, introduced a young Sayani to radio programmes on the English service of All India Radio Bombay. The beginning of this success story began with failure. After completing his college, Sayani auditioned for a presenter's job in the Hindi service of AIR but was rejected because of a slight Gujarati accent. His tryst with fame came a few years later with Radio Ceylon. In 1952, then information and broadcasting minister B V Keskar banned Hindi film songs from AIR. Around that time, Radio Ceylon, which was founded by the British, started becoming popular for its programmes in English, Tamil and Hindi. Broadcast from Colombo, Radio Ceylon began its journey in 1949. American businessman Daniel Molina saw an opportunity there and established his company, Radio Advertising Services in Mumbai. He hired Sayani's elder brother to run Radio Ceylon's production arm. Hamid Sayani and Molina were keen to produce a programme on Hindi film songs and the elder Sayani zeroed in on his young brother who grabbed the chance for a salary of Rs 25 per week. The rest, as they say, is history. Sayani became a radio presenter in Hindi with Binaca Geetmala, a programme of Hindi film songs sponsored by the toothpaste brand, in December 1952 and never looked back. The first of its kind show, the programme was so popular that millions from different parts of India would tune in on Wednesday to listen to Sayani in his inimitable voice introducing songs from Hindi cinema. The programmed later shifted to Vividh Bharti and was named as Cibaca Geetmala and later as Colgate Cibaca Geetmala but Sayani's fans continued to tune in for years. For many, Sayani represented a piece of their childhood, rewind to a time that was slower and gentler. 'Binaca Geetmala was such a huge part of my childhood growing up, I still remember waking up to the sweet melodies of my favourite Bollywood songs. Rest in peace #AmeenSayani We will always remember you for your golden voice,' actor Ajay Devgn wrote on X. Manoj Bajpayee agreed. 'Ameen Sayaniji goodbye! Thank you for decorating our childhood with your voice and the world of music. 'Behno aur bhaiyo... These lines will always echo in our ears. Be happy wherever you are. That's the prayer,' the actor posted on X. Adil Hussain also harked back to his childhood. 'Rest in peace Ameen Sayani sahab... We all enjoyed your voice all through our childhood... We eagerly waited for your show every week. Have a safe trip into the other dimension. We pray for you,' Hussain posted. Actor-politician Kamal Haasan on Wednesday said discussions were on for his party Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM)'s political alliance and stressed it would support any bloc that would 'selflessly' think about the nation but desist from being part of 'feudal politics'. IMAGE: Makkal Needhi Maiam leader and actor Kamal Haasan. Photograph: ANI Photo Addressing reporters in Chennai after leading the 7th anniversary celebrations of his MNM, Haasan also welcomed the recent political entry of top Tamil actor Vijay. Asked if the MNM will join the multi-party opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), he said, "I have already told, this is the time when you have to blur party politics and think about the nation. Anybody who thinks selflessly about the nation, my MNM will be part of it." However, it won't join hands with those doing 'local feudal politics', he said. Asked if he has joined the INDIA grouping, he said, "no, I haven't." On his party's possible political alliance, he said 'discussions are on', and that any 'good news' in this regard will be communicated to the media. Not all related information can be revealed, he said. The question was asked in the backdrop of speculations that Haasan's party was involved in alliance talks with Chief Minister M K Stalin-led Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The MNM had faced the 2019 LS polls and the 2021 TN assembly elections by itself but drew a blank in the hustings. Earlier in the day, Haasan hoisted the party flag at the MNM headquarters here to mark the seventh year anniversary celebrations. He said the party workers' 'honesty and energy' is everything and claimed he entered politics 'not due to anger but despair', as to what difficulties people have to undergo. He said he saw it as his duty to serve the people who had given him name and fame out of their love and affection. Haasan, who is also busy with a string of films, contended there could be 'no full-time politician'. "There cannot be a full-time father, husband...they have to sleep, work," he said. Claiming he had suffered losses after starting the party, Haasan however asserted 'nobody can make me leave politics', as he was determined to serve the people. He also flayed the Centre, saying 'it has not done even 10 per cent' of what Tamil Nadu has done for its farmers. He criticised the 'bed of nails' being laid against farmers, in an obvious reference to the government's measures on the Delhi border in the face of the farmers' agitation and said such steps are meant only for the country's enemies. Further, he slammed the Centre on devolution of funds and the proposed delimitation exercise based on the next census, saying this may lead to shrinking of Lok Sabha seats to a state like Tamil Nadu which had implemented the population control measures effectively 'like a service to the nation'. "We did family planning considering the nation's welfare...we are now being punished for that," he charged. "If you want to understand our expanse, let the Centre undertake a survey on which state generates more revenue. Tamil Nadu will be in the top three states," he said. He claimed 'only 29 paise for every rupee we pay comes back to us' but that states like Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh 'which have more (LS) seats' are given a lot more. Hassan said a resident of Bihar was like his younger brother and wished him well. "But my tiffin cannot be his snack," he said. He alleged the Centre was not bothered about the development of the south. India and China held a fresh round of high-level military talks to resolve the over three-and-half-year-old border row in eastern Ladakh that saw both sides agreeing to maintain "peace and tranquillity" on the ground but there was no indication of any breakthrough.. IMAGE: Indian Army personnel patrol the border with China in Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Photograph: ANI Photo The 21st round of India-China corps commander level meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on February 19, the ministry of external affairs said on Wednesday. The Indian side strongly pressed for resolution of the lingering issues at Depsang and Demchok, people familiar with the matter said, adding there was no tangible forward movement in the talks. The MEA said the two sides agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. "The discussions built on the previous rounds, seeking complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC (Line of Actual Control) in eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas," it said in a statement. The MEA said the two sides shared their perspectives on this in the talks held in a "friendly and cordial" atmosphere. "The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. They also committed to maintain peace and tranquillity on the ground in the border areas in the interim," it said. In Beijing, China's ministry of national defence said the two militaries have agreed to maintain communication on current border issues. It said the talks were held at the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point on the Chinese side. The two sides conducted positive, in-depth, and constructive communication on resolving border issues of mutual concern, it said. Both sides agreed to continue communication through military and diplomatic channels, guided by the important consensus of the leaders of the two countries, to reach an acceptable solution as soon as possible and "turn the page" in the border situation, the Chinese readout said. The 20th round of military talks were held on October 9 and 10. Following that round of talks, the MEA had said that the two sides exchanged views in a frank, open and constructive manner for an early and mutually acceptable resolution of the remaining issues along the LAC. Last month, Army chief Gen Manoj Pande said that the situation along the LAC in eastern Ladakh is "stable" but "sensitive" and asserted that the Indian troops are maintaining a "very high state" of operational preparedness to effectively deal with any eventualities. Gen Pande also said that both India and China continue to hold talks at military and diplomatic levels with an aim to return to the "status quo ante" that existed in the middle of 2020. The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in a standoff in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks. The Indian delegation at the talks was headed by Lt Gen Rashim Bali, the Commander of the Leh-headquartered 14 Corps while the Chinese team was led by the commander of the South Xinjiang military district. India has been maintaining that its ties with China cannot be normal unless there is peace in the border areas. The eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area. The ties between the two countries nosedived significantly following the fierce clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 that marked the most serious military conflict between the two sides in decades. As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in 2021 on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. Senior politician Sharad Pawar has claimed fundamental rights are under attack in the country and the government is not bothered about progressive ideology. IMAGE: NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar. Photograph: ANI Photo A united stand should be taken against "regressive" powers, he said addressing a function on Tuesday after unveiling the memorial of slain Leftist leader Govind Pansare in Maharashtra's Kolhapur city. "Today, power is being misused, free voice suppressed, restrictions are brought on free writing, and news channels are being blocked. This means those in power are not bothered about the attacks on fundamental rights," Pawar alleged. While "regressive" powers are rising in the country, rulers are not at all bothered about the progressive ideology, the NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar chief said. He claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes to the Rajya Sabha for only 20 minutes when the issues of common people are discussed and policy decisions taken during Parliament sessions. "At the start of the session, (Prime Minister) bows down at the door of Parliament. This is theatrics," the former Union minister claimed. He listed incidents like the arrest of former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, the attack on organisers of 'Nirbhay Bano' event in Pune, and "harassment" of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal to allege growing intolerance. Senior journalist Nikhil Wagle's car was recently attacked when he was headed for the 'Nirbhay Bano' event in Pune. "In Jharkhand, fake cases were foisted against a tribal chief minister and he was arrested. Arvind Kejriwal is being harassed by putting his ministers in jail," said Pawar. He alleged that central agencies like the ED are being misused and different yardsticks are being applied for the people who take a different stand and those who are genuinely corrupt. The fight is not restricted to elections but a vow should be taken to support those people who have been oppressed, and for that, all the like-minded progressive powers need to come together, Pawar said. He said fighting regressive tendencies would be the real tribute to Pansare. CPI leader Govind Pansare was fired upon on February 16, 2015, in Kolhapur by some unidentified men. He succumbed to his injuries four days later. Pawar also recalled the murders of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar and Kannada scholar MM Kalburgi. "The attackers think that they will destroy progressive powers. But the ideological fight needs to be fought with ideology. However, the tendencies without any ideology take law in their hands and commit such acts," he said. CPI leader D Raja recalled his association with the late Pansare. "Currently, the primary responsibility of all the people is to save India. People should vote against the communal forces and defeat the BJP," he said. Farmers protesting at two border points between Punjab and Haryana will resume their "Delhi Chalo" march on Wednesday after they rejected the Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by government agencies for five years. IMAGE: Protesting farmers bring heavy machinery, including hydraulic cranes and earthmovers, to Shambhu on the Punjab-Haryana border as their 'Delhi Chalo' protest march is to resume on February on Tuesday. Photograph: ANI Photo Thousands of farmers, who began their march to Delhi on February 13, were stopped at the Haryana border, where they clashed with security personnel. The farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri points between Punjab and Haryana since then. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha are spearheading the "Delhi Chalo" march to press the BJP-led Centre to accept their demands, including a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm loan waiver. The last round of talks between the farmers and the government ended past midnight on Sunday when a panel of ministers proposed buying five crops -- moong dal, urad dal, tur dal, maize and cotton -- from farmers at the MSP for five years through central agencies. The Centre has estimated that nearly 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses as well as small vehicles and conveyed its strong objections to the Punjab government for it, sources said on Tuesday. In a communication to the Punjab government, the Union Home Ministry also said that the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state has been a matter of concern over the last few days and asked it to take stringent action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many miscreants in the guise of farmers were indulging in stone-pelting, mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjab's border with Haryana. Protesting farmers have been staying put at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab's border with Haryana after their 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the Centre for various demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) for crops, was stopped by security forces which led to clashes last week. IMAGE: Farmers gather at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. Photograph: ANI Photo Farmer leaders taking part in agitation on Monday rejected the Centre's proposal of procuring pulses, maize and cotton at MSP by government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers' interest and announced that they will march towards the national capital on Wednesday. As per the reports prepared by central security agencies, nearly 14,000 people have been allowed to gather at the Shambhu barrier on Rajpura-Ambala Road, with nearly 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses and other small vehicles, the home ministry said. Similarly, Punjab has allowed a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, it claimed. The deteriorating law-and-order situation in Punjab has been a matter of concern over the last few days, since it seems to have freely allowed miscreants and law-breakers in the guise of protest to indulge in stone-pelting, mobilising heavy machinery on the border with a marked intention of spreading unrest and disorder in neighbouring states, the home ministry told the Punjab government. In view of the above, it is requested to take immediate review and stringent action to curb all such disrupting activities in the guise of farmers' protest, it said. The home ministry also said that as per reports, the court has asked the Punjab government to ensure that protestors do not gather in large numbers, especially raising serious objections on the use of tractor-trolleys, JCBs and other heavy equipment on highways. As per reports from central security agencies, there has been a marked deterioration in the law-and-order machinery in Punjab in handling the recent agitation by a few groups of farmers protesting in the state, the home ministry told the Punjab government asking it to take action on it. At the Shambhu border point, the farmers have brought excavators in order to make their way through the multi-layered barricades set up by the Haryana security personnel. Some of the farmers are carrying masks to protect themselves from tear-gas shells. Tight security arrangements are in place at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points. The Haryana Police has urged its Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the inter-state border, which they say the protesters will use to break the barricades. These could pose a threat to the security forces deployed at the border, Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapoor has said in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart, Gaurav Yadav. Later, in a communication to senior police officers, the Punjab DGP said no JCB machines and other heavy earthmoving equipment should be allowed to reach the Khanauri and Shambu border points as inputs indicate that the protesters plan to break the barricades and enter Haryana. "It is reliably learnt that heavy earthmoving equipment, including proclain (digger), JCB etc., that have been further modified/armour-plated have been acquired by protesting farmers and have been deployed at the border locations where the protesters are camping right now," the letter written by the Haryana DGP stated. "These machines are meant to be used by the protesters to damage the barricades, thereby posing serious danger to the police and paramilitary forces deployed on duty, and are likely to compromise the security scenario in Haryana," it said. A probe into the seizure of a whopping 1,700 kg of mephedrone, commonly known as 'meow-meow', valued around Rs 3,500 crore, has revealed the emergence of an international narcotics cartel link, a top police officer said on Wednesday. Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: ANI Photo Pune police commissioner Amitesh Kumar said that some consignments of the drug were earlier shipped to London, deviously concealed within ready-to-eat food packets, for which a Delhi-based courier company was roped in. The police seized the cache from Pune and multiple sites in Delhi and eight people have been arrested so far, even as investigators are looking at forward and backward linkages of this drug haul. We have successfully unveiled the national and international dimensions of this case. Our teams are diligently working to dismantle the supply chain associated with this operation, the Pune police commissioner said. Seizures in Pune and Delhi totaled 720 kg and 970 kg, respectively, with a combined value estimated between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 3,500 crore. The probe exposed the involvement of a Delhi-based courier company in the drug trafficking network, with drugs discreetly shipped to London within food packets. Delhi and Pune police jointly carried out raids in the national capital's Kotla Mubarakpur and Hauz Khas areas. In a related development, two key suspects, Bhimaji Sabale (owner of the MIDC unit) and Yuvraj Bhujbal (chemical engineer), were arrested for their roles in the drug's production and distribution. The duo has been remanded in Police custody till February 29 by a local court. Bhujbal is alleged to have provided raw materials and other formula for manufacturing "meow-meow" drug and under his instructions, the produced contraband was distributed in various places, including Pune, Delhi, and other cities. The investigation also led to the closure of Earthchem Laboratory. The police had previously arrested three individuals, Haider Shaikh, Vaibhav Mane, and Ajay Karosiya, for alleged possession of the drug. "During the investigation, it was found that a large quantity of the drug was stored in a town called Kupwad in the Sangli district of Western Maharashtra. "So far, more than 140 kg of MD has been recovered, and one person has been detained. We are interrogating the suspect regarding the seizure of such a large quantity of contraband from a godown-like structure in Kupwad," a senior police officer said. Mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant often associated with the "rave party culture" for its euphoric effects. It's popularly known as "Meow Meow". It is majorly abused by youngsters. "Eight individuals have been arrested so far and investigations into their involvement are in progress. Multiple Pune police teams have been strategically placed across the country in connection to this case," Kumar added. Initiating the inquiry with a mephedrone haul worth Rs 2 crore, authorities have now uncovered a staggering 1,700 kg of the illicit substance. In a strong response to the Union home ministry's letter on the ongoing farmers' agitation, the Aam Aadmi Party dispensation in Punjab on Wednesday wrote to the Centre saying it is 'completely wrong' to claim the state government was allowing gathering at the two border points with Haryana. IMAGE: Agitating farmers move away after Haryana police fire tear gas shells to disperse them as they resume their 'Delhi Chalo' March, at the Shambhu border (Punjab-Haryana) in Patiala on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo The Punjab government's response came a day after the Centre conveyed its strong objection to the gathering of protesters, estimating that nearly 14,000 people have assembled along the Punjab-Haryana border. Protesting farmers have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjab's border with Haryana after their 'Delhi Chalo' march to press the Centre for various demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops, was stopped by security forces which led to clashes last week. In its communication to the Punjab government, the Union home ministry also said the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state over the past few days has been a matter of concern and asked it to take stringent action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many miscreants in the guise of farmers were indulging in stone-pelting, and mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjab's border with Haryana. According to reports prepared by central security agencies, nearly 14,000 people have been allowed to gather at the Shambhu barrier on Rajpura-Ambala Road, with nearly 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses and other small vehicles, the home ministry said. Similarly, Punjab has allowed a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, it claimed. In response, Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma said it was 'completely wrong' to claim that the Punjab government was allowing people to gather at Shambhu and Dhabhi-Gurjan borders. Farmers were going to Delhi to hold a protest but because of restrictions on their movement, farmers were at the borders of Punjab and Haryana, he said. Verma said that till now, more than 160 people have been injured due to tear gas shells, rubber bullets, use of physical force and drones by the Haryana Police. Yet the Punjab government has responsibly maintained the law and order situation, he said. He also said the Punjab government played an important role in negotiations between farmer leaders and a panel of union ministers with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann himself attending three out of four such meetings. In one of the meetings which he could not attend, the CM deputed a cabinet minister and senior officials, he said. The chief secretary called for showing more sympathy towards farmers, saying the law and order issue during the protest should be tackled in a more sensitive way as Punjab is a border state. Over 2,000 police personnel have been deputed to maintain peace, according to the communication. "The situation is being constantly monitored, we will take steps if needed," the chief secretary said. Around 200 people belonging to the Sikh community staged a demonstration in front of the Bharatiya Janata Party office in Kolkata on Wednesday, expressing solidarity with an Indian Police Service officer who had alleged that West Bengal party leader Suvendu Adhikari labeled him as a 'Khalistani'. IMAGE: IPS officer Jaspreet Singh speaks to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari and other party MLAs, who were stopped by the police from going to Sandeshkhali, in North 24 Parganas on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Photograph: ANI on X Adhikari, along with another BJP leader Agnimitra Paul, had claimed that IPS officer Jaspreet Singh wasn't fulfilling his duties, but dismissed allegations that anyone from the party called him a 'Khalistani'. "No one has abused him or used the word 'Khalistani'. He is trying to make an issue," Paul claimed. On Tuesday, the IPS officer had questioned the BJP workers, "Just because I am wearing a turban, you people are calling me a Khalistani? Is this what you have learnt? If a police officer wears a turban and performs his duty honestly, he becomes a Khalistani for you? Shame on you." A protester near the BJP office said, "The farmers from Punjab are described as Khalistanis by some BJP leaders for demanding better support price for their crops. A policeman hailing from Punjab has been similarly labeled by the saffron party for doing his duty as a police officer." "We are all patriotic Indians. None can question our patriotism, our sacrifice, our love for the country. Why should wearing turbans as part of our religious right make a Sikh tagged as a Khalistani? We demand an apology from the BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on this issue," an elderly Sikh gentleman said. The IPS officer was deputed to prevent Adhikari from visiting the restive Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Similar protests were held by members of the Sikh community in Asansol, Paschim Bardhaman district. On Tuesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned BJP's 'divisive politics' and said attempts to undermine the reputation of Sikhs were audacious. However, Adhikari denied the allegations, accusing the TMC of diverting attention from developments in Sandeshkhali, which had been witnessing protests after local women accused absconding Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh and his supporters of 'sexually assaulting' them under coercion. BJP should apologise, says AAP leader Meanwhile, AAP leader Gopal Rai slammed the BJP said it should apologise for insulting the officer. Rai also alleged that the BJP, with its 'arrogance of power', hands out 'certificates' as it sometimes label someone as a 'traitor or a Khalistani or a terrorist or a Naxalite'. "It shows how this thinking of hatred is ingrained in their psyche," Rai charged, and said the BJP should apologise for this incident. There was no immediate reaction from the BJP to Rai's comments. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today A mix of clouds and sun. High around 45F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy. A few flurries are possible. Low 29F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Press Release February 21, 2024 "My life was extended": A Davao City patient expresses gratitude for Bong Go's Malasakit Center initiative February marks a significant period as the Malasakit Center, a program initiated by Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, celebrates its sixth anniversary. This program, aimed at providing accessible healthcare support to Filipinos, has provided aid for many, including Sheena Abello, who shared her heartfelt gratitude and experience with the initiative. Sheena Abello, a Davao City resident treated at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in February 2023, recounted her ordeal with a rare medical condition known as hydatidiform mole. Initially mistaking her symptoms for pregnancy, Abello was shocked to discover her condition and faced a daunting hospital bill. "Dahil po sa Malasakit (Center), natulungan po nila ako na ma-lessen po ang payment ko," she expressed, highlighting how the Malasakit Center stepped in to alleviate her financial burden. The assistance continued after the bill payment. Abello's treatment required a three-year follow-up, necessitating monthly visits to the healthcare facility. The Malasakit Center's intervention meant she could continue her treatment without financial constraints. "After po sa operation ko, meron po akong kailangan na three years na treatment. So, kailangan ko din po ipunta sa Malasakit para every month po, wala po akong mababayaran," she said. "Malaki po ang tulong sa akin ng Malasakit (Center) po," Abello added. Go's vision for the Malasakit Centers was to create one-stop shops for Filipinos seeking medical and financial assistance from various government agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These centers aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. Currently, 159 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to around ten million Filipinos. This vision has materialized into a vital support system for millions of Filipinos nationwide. Abello's story is just one of many testimonies to the program's success and the relief it brings to patients and their families. At a time when both Abello and her husband were unemployed, the Malasakit Center's aid was not just financial but also a source of hope and reassurance. "Sa panahon na 'yon, pareho po kami ng husband ko na walang trabaho. Maraming pong katulad ko ang nagpapasalamat sa Malasakit Center. Dahil po sa Malasakit, [humaba] po ang aking buhay... na hindi po kami nahirapan sa paghanap ng pangbayad," she acknowledged, underlining the widespread appreciation for the program among Filipinos facing health crises without the means to afford treatment. As the Malasakit Centers commemorate their sixth year of operation, the stories of beneficiaries like Abello underscore these centers' critical role in the healthcare system. Go's initiative has provided a safety net for those in dire need and exemplified the spirit of 'malasakit' or compassion, underpinning Filipino values. The gratitude of patients and their families echoes through communities, serving as a testament to the positive impact of the Malasakit Centers. "Kaya, Senator Bong Go, nagpapasalamat po ako sa ginawa niyo... sa pagkakaroon niyo ng idea na Malasakit (Center) po. Dahil hindi lang ako at maraming pang iba pa, nagpapasalamat sa ganyang ginawa (niyo) po. Maraming po kaming masaya at marami po kaming na-save na buhay ko dahil po sa Malasakit," Abello said. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky may soon meet with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The latter has already received a corresponding invitation during the visit of Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama to the Turkish capital Ankara. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by TRT World. It is noted that the upcoming meeting between Zelensky and Erdogan will be devoted to Russia's war against Ukraine. "We exchanged views with the President (Erdogan - Ed.), especially on the war in Ukraine. I informed him that we will hold a high-level meeting with President Zelensky in the coming days. Turkey has also been invited to this summit," Rama said. He thanked Erdogan for accepting the invitation despite his very busy schedule. "But what this summit will try to achieve is still unknown," the story says. As reported by OBOZ.UA, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has recently reiterated his readiness to mediate between Ukraine and the aggressor country Russia in order to establish a "just" peace between the two countries. He noted that he continues to make efforts to organize peace talks between the leaders of both countries. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The family of former Prime Minister Hun Sen is solidifying its already iron grip on Cambodia after the National Assembly on Wednesday voted unanimously to appoint Minister of Civil Service Hun Many as a deputy prime minister. Hun Many, 41, is the youngest son of Hun Sen, who stepped down as prime minister after last years national elections in favor of eldest son Hun Manet, 45. He received all of the 120 votes during an extraordinary session of the Assembly and is now one of 11 deputy prime ministers, local media reported. The promotion of Hun Many was in line with the need to achieve the highest efficiency of the governments policy as the government seeks to turn Cambodia into a high-income country by 2050, Prime Minister Hun Manet told lawmakers, according to Agence France-Presse. The appointment was not unexpected. On Feb. 16, exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy said Hun Manys new position would show that this regime is a feudal clan, as far away from public accountability as any in the world. Instead of working to resolve major national issues, Hun Manet is apparently focusing on strengthening his familys influence, said In Nath, the president of the Cambodia Alliance for Paris Peace Accords, an organization that seeks to educate Cambodians about democracy. Dictators have always appointed their family members and close relatives to consolidate power, he said. Thaksin and Hun Sen Also on Wednesday, Hun Sen traveled to Bangkok on a private plane to visit Thaksin Shinawatra at the former Thai prime ministers residence. Hun Sen, 71, was pictured sitting next to Thaksin, who wore a neck brace and had his right arm in a sling, as they enjoyed coconut drinks in the living room, according to BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service. Cambodias former Prime Minister Hun Sen (left) poses for a picture during his meeting with Thailands former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, in Bangkok, Thailand, in this handout image released on Feb. 21, 2024. Despite Thaksin being ill, he gave a warm welcome as if we were siblings, with Paetongtarn, his youngest daughter and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, also present. I have invited Paetongtarn to visit Cambodia on March 14-15, Hun Sen said in a post on his Facebook page. Thaksin was released from the Police General Hospital on Sunday, after being held there due to ill health for six months on corruption charges following his return from exile. He served as Thai prime minister from 2001 to 2006. Hun Sen provided Thaksin with sanctuary during his subsequent 15-year exile, allowing him to visit frequently as a special adviser to Cambodia. Thaksins Pheu Thai party returned to power in September at the head of a new coalition government. During Hun Sens visit, the area around Thaksins home saw heightened security, with traffic police and plainclothes officers out in force. Metal barriers were placed around the residence, upon orders from Police Gen. Torsak Sukvimol, the national police chief. His visit was personal, but given his status as a former head of state, orders were given for officers to provide external security, Torasak said. Coordination was made with security officials to ensure protection and facilitate the visit. Cambodian activists in Thailand Sitanan Satsaksit, the sister of Wanchalearm, a Thai activist who went missing four years ago while hiding out in Cambodia, was waiting on the sidewalk about 1 kilometer from Thaksins home. She said she was there to submit a letter to Hun Sen about her missing sibling, who is feared to have been abducted. We came to demand justice, given that Wanchalearm disappeared while Hun Sen was prime minister, she told BenarNews. Cambodia claims to be investigating, but why havent they informed the family? We want to ask about the progress and insist the family should be informed, Sitanan said. Hun Sen was Cambodias prime minister from 1985 to 2023, the longest-serving premier in the countrys history. He retains power as president of the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party and is set to become the president of the Senate following an election on Sunday. Brad Adams, former Asia director of New York-based Human Rights Watch, told RFA that its likely that Thaksin and Hun Sen spoke about the thousands of Cambodians living and working in Thailand including pro-democracy activists who have sought political asylum there. For many years, Thailand was a relatively safe place for threatened Cambodians to hide, he said. What Im worried about is that there are a lot of Cambodians in Thailand who could be at risk, Adams said. Weve seen that the Thai authorities have been cracking down on Cambodians living in Thailand who are critical of the Cambodian government. Edited by Taejun Kang, Elaine Chan and Matt Reed. Rong Chhuns 2021 conviction means he cant go to political events ahead of Sundays Senate election. Rong Chhun, an adviser for Cambodias National Power Party, participates in a campaign event on Feb. 18, 2024. The National Election Committee said opposition activist Rong Chhun and his newly formed political party are banned from campaigning ahead of this Sundays Senate election, citing his 2021 criminal conviction. Rong Chhun campaigned in northwestern Banteay Meanchey province and met with hundreds of supporters of the Nation Power Party in Kampong Speu and Kampong Chhnang provinces over the last week. The prominent labor activist and the former vice president of the opposition Candlelight Party announced in November that he would join the Nation Power Party as a senior adviser. His recent campaigning prompted the National Election Committee, or NEC, to remind provincial election committees that he cant legally engage in campaign activity because of the 2021 conviction, NEC spokesman Hang Puthea told Radio Free Asia on Tuesday. Rong Chhun was sentenced to two years in prison for a conviction that stemmed from his criticism of the government for not addressing border disputes with Vietnam. He was freed from prison in 2022, but the government has said he cant campaign for candidates or participate in other political activities for a five-year period after his release. Election committees in a number of provinces, including Kampong Speu and Kampong Chhnang, followed up with notification letters sent to the Nation Power Party on Monday. His internal actions are his internal affairs, Hang Puthea told RFA. But the provincial election committees have had to remind the party to avoid any confusion in regard to Rong Chhun. Voters will choose 58 senators from eight constituencies in Sundays election. In May, the NEC ruled Rong Chhun ineligible for the ballot ahead of the July 23 national election. He would have been listed as the Candlelight Partys top candidate in Kandal province, opposite then-Prime Minister Hun Sen. Later in May, the NEC ruled that the Candlelight Party couldnt field any candidates for the National Assembly in the July election, citing inadequate paperwork. That led to Rong Chhuns decision to join the Nation Power Party, which he called a party for youths and the younger generation. Rong Chhun told RFA he should have the right to conduct political activities despite the criminal conviction. He said the party will review the NECs statements on his case before taking any action. To restore the countrys reputation, the government must allow politicians and people to have full freedom in order to welcome the international community, he said. If the government continues to restrict peoples freedom and politicians, the national community will condemn [the government]. Translated by Yun Samean. Edited by Matt Reed. Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen leading other top officials pledging their vows to the party on screen during a gala show ahead of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing. A directive from a Chinese provincial government seen as aiming to further shore up the ideology of Chinese President Xi Jinping and break away from late leader Deng Xiaopings reformist thoughts has stirred up heated debate. The campaign by Hunan officials called for large-scale discussions on emancipating the mind throughout the province, known for its red propaganda. It was launched on the eve of the 27th anniversary of Dengs death. The notice of emancipating the mind was a reference to the Chinese Communist Partys efforts to introduce economic reforms after the death of Mao Zedong under the opening-up policy of which Deng has been credited to be the architect. But it also stated that it is to consolidate and expand the educational achievements of learning and implementing the theme of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, emphasizing an inherent requirement to further unify thinking, unify will, and unify action. Emancipating from Dengs thoughts? United States-based chairman of the National Committee of the China Democratic Party, Wang Juntao, said the main thrust of the campaign is to liberate ourselves from Deng Xiaopings structure. We know that Xi Jinping wants to reverse history and go back to Mao Zedong thought [reverting to hardcore leftist]. But there is a problem, he cannot get around Deng Xiaoping, he said in an interview with Radio Free Asia. Wang said there may be many people within the Chinese Communist Party who will use the thoughts and theories of Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, and even Hu Jintao to counter Xi's leftist turn, which compels Xi to feel the need to liberate from the existing Party theories. You need two things for a dictatorship: one, a saber and a sword, and two, an orthodox scripture. Both are indispensable as you need violence and ideological control. Xi, who has ruled China for more than ten years, has violence grasped firmly, Wang said. The next step is to resolve the ideological problem. History has provided examples. Wang said one was Maos rectification movement in Yanan to seek truth from facts by getting rid of book worship, dogmatism and party stereotypes targeted at the-then Soviet Union with the goal to unify ideology towards himself. Deng also latched on to seek truth from facts and emancipate the mind to back his reform and opening-up policy, which meant liberating from Maos dogma. Seek truth from facts Wang pointed out that while Xi is playing up the emancipation factor, he has omitted to seek truth from facts. What is Xis embarrassment now? He talks about emancipating the mind liberating from Deng, which is equivalent to liberating from a situation where economic development is relatively successful. But under him, his entire economy is now in a mess he wouldnt dare mention seek truth from facts. The central province of Hunan is known for its ideological solidification of political propaganda and conservative policies. The first thing Party-Secretary Shen Xiaoming did when he took office was to go to Shaoshan, Maos hometown, bow and pay his respects. Trainees receiving a lecture on the Chinese Communist Party at the China Executive Leadership Academy Pudong in Shanghai, China. CELAP, an academy for training party and government officials, is funded by the central government and supervised by the Organization Department of the CCP Central Committee. (Eugene Hoshiko/AP file photo) A Chinese political commentator in the U.S., who goes by the name Yokogawa, told RFA that the Hunan campaign, however, has nothing to do with Dengs theory on emancipating the mind. Dengs original plan to emancipate the mind actually involved two concepts, one is an ideological issue, and the other is an organizational form. He said Deng also held a major discussion on the standard of truth, which liberated peoples minds from Maos dogma and communist thought, as well as negated Hua Guofeng, Maos successor, opening the path for reforms. On the other hand, the ideological emancipation by Hunan officials is carried out under the guidance of the Xi Jinping Thought for the New Era. The problem now is that Xi Jinping himself does not actually have a relatively clear system. Unlike Maos era, which was a planned economy, Dengs era was to partially cede power and then carry out market economic reforms, Yokogawa said. He added that Xi neither dares to completely dismiss the market economy, nor admit the advancement of state enterprises and the retreat of the private sector. What is Xi Jinping Thought? No one knows. Under the guidance of this thought, we must emancipate the mind, and emancipating the mind means breaking the guiding ideology which is not possible, and that itself is contradictory. Resolving bureaucratic lying flat The emancipating the mind notice issued on Sunday also stated it aimed to resolve issues surrounding officials lying flat the Chinese neologism describing a persons rejection of societal pressure to over-work or over-achieve such as lack of confidence in development, weak sense of mission, insufficient spirit of responsibility. It proposed 10 changes to reversing the lying flat mentality and the ostrich mentality of deliberately avoiding and covering up conflicts and problems. Yokogawa said he believes that the notice does not deny Dengs reform and opening up policy, but outlines that bureaucrats lying flat under the current situation needed to innovate under the guidance of Xis Thought. That said, he pointed out that Xis Thought itself inhibited innovation and risk-taking as his series of measures are all about strengthening control. Yet Yokogawa said Xi wanted to improve the economy and avoid officials lying flat. So he came up with the idea of liberating the mind, but he couldn't think of a new term, he added. Translated by RFA staff. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. The mosques dome and minarets were demolished last year under Xis sinization of religion campaign. The historic Najiaying Mosque in Nagu in Chinas Yunnan province is seen March 20, 2007. (Iceway12 via Wikipedia) A mosque in a mostly-Muslim town in southwestern China whose dome and minarets were demolished last year has been refitted with Chinese-style pagodas and billboards praising the Communist Party, according to a local resident and an overseas Muslim with connections to the area. Last May, dozens of residents were detained in the town of Nagu in Yunnan province after clashes with police, when a government demolition team toppled the minarets and dome roof of the historic Najiaying Mosque. The destruction was part of the "sinicization" of religion under President Xi Jinping that ushered in a nationwide crackdown on Muslim, Christian and Tibetan Buddhist religious activities and venues in 2017. The mosque, run by Hui Muslims, had recently expanded its minarets and dome, a move that was ruled illegal by a court in Yunnan's Tonghai county. A Muslim who lives close by the Najiaying Mosque who gave only the surname Ma for fear of reprisals said the building is now open again after receiving a Chinese-style makeover. "It's open now," Ma said. "It was renovated and the dome changed into a Chinese-style building following the demolition." Follow the Party Residents shared photos of signage outside the Najiaying Mosque, which read: "Obey the Party. Be grateful to the Party. Follow the Party." Ma said all mosques in the area, which is home to a large Hui Muslim population, are undergoing similar changes. A man smacks the face mask of a riot police officer during a standoff at the Najiaying Mosque in Nagu in Chinas Yunnan province, May 27, 2023. (majuismail1122 via X) "They all have to be changed. Most of them already have," he said. "Around 90% of local [mosques] have been changed." The Najiaying Mosque was first built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty and has been rebuilt many times over the centuries. The Arabesque-style mosque building was completed in 2004, and boasted four minarets and a dome, with enough space for thousands of worshipers. But according to Ma Ju, a Chinese Muslim scholar living in the United States who remains in contact with many Muslims in Nagu township, it wasnt just the building that got an overhaul. He said the mosque had also been forced to undergo organizational changes. "The authorities also used the reconstruction process to reorganize the democratically elected management committee for the mosque," Ma Ju said. "Now, there are no longer democratic elections, but appointments made directly by the government's religious affairs bureau and the United Front Work Department." Under the control of the Communist Party, the United Front has the task of getting minority groups and organizations outside of the party-state to toe the line. "Several schools linked to the mosque have been banned, and children aren't allowed to enter the mosque," Ma Ju said. Repeated calls to the Tonghai County Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau rang unanswered during office hours on Tuesday. Conflict over supreme power Current affairs commentator Guo Min said the signs remind Muslims that, in China, the Communist Party is the supreme power, a claim that Muslims in Hong Kong say goes against the core tenet of their religion. "The party controls everything, and they insist that we love the party, and highlight their supreme leadership over any religion," Guo said. "Religious belief must be predicated on loving the party." "The authorities will never allow anything to deviate from that." Chinas sinicization of religion policy, which has led churches in mainland China to display portraits of Xi and prompted local officials to forcibly demolish domes, minarets and other architectural features in mosques around the country. The Communist Party now requires all religious believers to love their country as well as their religion, and claims that patriotism is a part of Islam. In October 2023, some Muslims in Hong Kong spoke out against the raising of the Chinese national flag in formal ceremonies at Kowloon Mosque in honor of the anniversary of the 1997 handover to Chinese rule, seeing them as a challenge to the Islamic doctrine of the supremacy of God. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. After large public events, the poor pick up the filters which, when recycled, are worth triple their weight in corn. People bow as they visit the statues of the late North Korean leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il on the occasion of the 82nd birthday of Kim Jong Il, on Mansu Hill in Pyongyang, Feb. 16, 2024. Hungry North Koreans are swooping in ahead of cleaning crews for large public events to collect the butts of filtered cigarettes, which they then sell for meager sums of cash, residents in the country told Radio Free Asia. The cigarette butts have filters made of fibers that can either be recycled into new cigarettes or used to make clothing, sources said. On Feb. 16, North Korea celebrated the Day of the Shining Star, the birth anniversary of leader Kim Jong Uns late father and predecessor Kim Jong Il. It is customary for every resident of every city to present flowers at statues of the late Dear Leader, and people can spend several hours in the town square waiting in line for their turn. The flower ceremony in Chongju ended at noon, a resident of the northeastern province of North Pyongan told RFA Korean, speaking anonymously for reasons of personal safety. After the event, many women came to pick up cigarette butts around the street and in front of the statue, where thousands of people had gathered to give flowers. He explained that men who are bored of waiting often light up a smoke, and then throw the butts on the ground when theyre done. RFA reported previously that there is a ban on smoking in public, but it is often only enforced for women. The resident said that most of the people gathering the cigarette butts after the Day of the Shining Star were women. Smiley faces are seen on the filtered ends of a pack of Pyongyang-brand cigarettes, Oct. 14, 2015. (Wong Maye-E/AP) Filtered cigarettes were once a sign of wealth and status that only rich people could afford in North Korea, while most smokers used hand-rolled cigarettes with no filters.. In the 2010s, state-owned factories started making filtered cigarettes more cheaply and they became widely available, giving rise to more cigarette butt litter. A resident of North Pyongans Ryongchon county reported a similar scene of women gathering cigarette butts following the laying of wreaths for Day of the Shining Star at an area monument called the Tower of Eternal life. You can get money for filtered cigarette butts if you take them to people who make winter clothes, she said, speaking on condition of anonymity citing security concerns. But, if you take them to those who make cigarettes, you can sell them at a slightly higher price. So some farmers survive by picking up cigarette butts at stations and marketplaces. The price of 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs.) of filtered cigarette butts is around 10,000 won (US$1.13) which is the same price of about 3 kilograms (6.6 lbs.) of corn at the market, the resident explained. We know that we can find lots of cigarette butts at political events such as the Day of the Shining Star, she said. Some of the farmers choose to pick up cigarette butts rather than participate in the event itself. Translated by Claire S. Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong. Pyongyang metro's Unification Station renamed 'Station' amid messages that uniting with the South is no longer a priority. North Koreans sing in Pyongyang to celebrate 100 years since the birth of the late North Korean founder Kim Il Sung, April 15, 2012. UPDATED on Feb. 21, 2024 at 4:22 p.m. ET North Korea has banned more than 100 patriotic songs because they refer to reunification with the South the latest step making it clear that unifying the divided peninsula is no longer a priority for Pyongyang, generating confusion among residents. The place our general pointed to was oh, a unified country, and a race made as one! go the lyrics of the popular song, "Where Our General Pointed," which talks about the pain of a divided country and a longing to join the tallest mountains in North and South together. It is among dozens of songs composed since the end of the Korean War more than 70 years ago that contain the word unification, or tongil, in Korean. But since the start of the year, supreme leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the government to take several steps to distance the North from the South. They include removing language from state media indicating that Koreans on both sides of the DMZ are one people, ending all economic cooperation with the South, and even tearing down a major Pyongyang landmark symbolizing a future reunion. Kim has also publicly threatened to annihilate Seoul. This has even extended to metro station names. This week, Unification, or Tongil, Station on the Pyongyang subway's Chollima Line has been renamed just Station, photos posted on Facebook by the Russian Embassy revealed. An image of the Pyongyangs metros passenger information display captures the train at Puhung Station on Pyongyang metros Chollima Line posted by the Russian Embassy in North Korea on Feb. 20, 2024. The new name of the Station circled in red by RFA. (Facebook: Russian Embassy in North Korea) And now, suddenly all songs that contain the word unification or make references to places in the South are prohibited. Confused populace The leadership wants to make it clear that reunification with the South and its people is no longer a priority, but the people are confused by the sudden shift, a resident in the northwestern province of North Pyongan told RFA Korean on condition of anonymity for security reasons. During the reigns of Kim Jong Uns father and grandfather, unification was always emphasized as the major goal for the country, he said. This is not just a reversal of the lifelong instructions of previous leaders, but also a denial of the identity of the Korean people, the person said. Banning Where Our General Pointed is particularly shocking because it was a song closely tied to thoughts expressed by Kim Jong Uns late father Kim Jong Il, he said. [The authorities] keep bragging about having nuclear power, but they lack confidence in everything else. Thats why there are so many things that theyve banned, the resident said. How can the Korean people, who have lived in one territory and one region for five millenia, now have nothing to do with each other just because they banned unification songs? Though the starting point of Korean history is not clearly defined by consensus, legends suggest that the kingdom of Gojoseon was founded 4,357 years ago by the mythical figure Dangun. Even so, Korea is often colloquially said to have a history spanning 5,000 years. Other banned songs include Nice to Meet You, Until We Meet Again, and Our Wish is Unification, a resident in the northeastern province of North Hamgyong told RFA on condition of anonymity to speak freely. The latter song is also taught to children in South Korea and has been used as an unofficial anthem during inter-Korean cultural exchange and sporting events. When residents get a chance to sing in their daily lives, they sing a lot of these unification songs, the second resident said. But the authorities have ordered us not to sing even Where Our General Pointed from now on, so the residents are saying that the [previous leaders] lifelong wishes of unification have come to an end under Kim Jong Un. Other changes Another reason for the ban is that the people are increasingly in awe of the economically vibrant South at a time when North Koreas economic situation is worsening, she said. The banning of the songs is seen, however, as orders from the authorities to accept the separation of Korea and division of the Korean race, she said. Last month, the Norths state-run broadcaster aired a map that highlights only the northern part of the Korean Peninsula in red, a move seen as its push to drop references to unification. Additionally, the authoritarian state has dropped a phrase symbolizing a unified Korea from the lyrics of its national anthem, while erasing an image of the Korean Peninsula, viewed as a unification reference, from its major websites, according to media reports. They include Foreign Trade of the DPRK, a website created to promote North Korea's trade and attract investments, and Publications of the DPRK, a foreign language publishing house. DPRK, or the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, is North Koreas official name. South Koreas Unification Ministry has voiced regret over the Norths move, lamenting it as an anti-national act. Translated by Claire S. Lee and Eugene Whong. Written in English by Eugene Whong and Taejun Kang. Edited by Malcolm Foster, Elaine Chan and Mike Firn. Updates story to add description of banned patriotic songs and other details. Pollution from upstream chicken farm is the second waterway to face contamination in as many months. Waste from a nearby chicken farm in Laos Nathaen village, Viengxay district, Huaphanh province, has turned Nathaen creek green, Feb. 12, 2024, and left villagers afraid to use the water. Villagers in northeastern Laos say theyre struggling to access enough water for washing and bathing after an upstream chicken farm began polluting a widely used creek earlier this month. The incident marks the second time in as many months that villagers in Viengxay district, Houaphanh province have suffered from environmental damage caused by an agribusiness. In January, a burst sewage pipe at a pig farm in a nearby village spilled into the river, killing hundreds of pounds of fish. Some 140 families living in Nathaen village have been coping with the impacts of the upstream chicken farm for years, but the problem became particularly bad this month, according to villagers. In the past, the problem happened and it was over [quickly]. This year, the problem started again this week and it looks likely to continue for the whole year, said a villager who asked not to be named for security reasons. We cannot use water from the creek Many people have had no water to bathe or wash their clothes. The villager went on to explain that while those who live in the center of the village can access a centralized underground water system, those on the outskirts rely heavily on the creek for daily use. Many of the villagers neighbors are now seeking water from relatives who have access to wells or underground water tanks. Another villager who asked not to be named described the water as green as a vegetable. He noted that district-level authorities had visited the village in prior years but have yet to put a stop to the polluting practices. A Viengxay district official told RFA that the authorities are aware of the issue and have met with the farm owner to address it. No fish died from this incident, but people are still afraid to use water from the creek, the official said. The problem really affects villagers. Another district officer said the farm owner signed an agreement after officials visited on Feb. 14. In it, the owner vowed to address the problem by moving his chicken farm further from the creek. The owner said that initially the farm released waste water from the chicken farm to the nearby vegetable yards as fertilizer, but the wastewater somehow leaked into the creek and then the problem happened. Translated by Phouvong. Edited by Abby Seiff and Josh Lipes. Residents say they were detained on suspicion of attempting to join ethnic rebels. Junta troops arrested around 600 civilians after their flights from Yangon landed at two airports in western Myanmars Rakhine state, according to family members and sources with knowledge of the situation, who said the military is holding them on suspicion of attempting to join the armed resistance. The arrests come amid the enactment of a conscription law that has sent draft-eligible civilians fleeing from Myanmars cities, saying they would rather leave the country or join anti-junta forces in remote border areas than fight for the military, which seized power in a February 2021 coup detat. On Monday, junta soldiers detained nearly 500 passengers after they arrived at the airport in Rakhines capital Sittwe from Yangon. They were transferred to a military camp at the Lawkananda pagoda, their relatives told RFA Burmese. The same day, more than 60 passengers from Yangon were similarly arrested after landing at the airport in Kyaukphyu city and taken to Rammawati City Hall, family members said. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly among the passengers were released the same day, they said, although the exact number was not immediately clear. The family member of a detainee at the Sittwe airport told RFA that there is no way to contact those being held. We only knew that all the passengers from the Yangon-Sittwe flight were taken by car to Lawkanada pagoda for inspection as soon as they landed at the airport, said the family member who, like others interviewed for this report, spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns. It was discovered that many passengers around 500 are being held. We dont know what they are being inspected for. The military has also cut off phone and internet connections in the area, and troops stationed at the Lawkananda pagoda do not allow civilians to enter the compound, sources told RFA. The passengers who landed at Kyaukphyu airport were arrested and immediately taken by car to Rammawati City Hall, where they are being held for interrogation, said a resident of the city. Some of them who have residential documents or were on household lists were released, the resident said. The people from other areas have not been released," he added, noting that one resident of Ramree township was handcuffed and taken to the military camp. Rakhine youth returning Armed clashes broke out in Rakhine state after the ethnic Arakan Army, or AA, ended a ceasefire in November that had been in place since the coup. Since then, the military has controlled routes in and out of the region by land and water, forcing people to rely on air travel. After the junta announced the enforcement of the Peoples Military Service Law on Feb. 10, Rakhine youth working and studying in Yangon were barred from registering for temporary residency in the city. Fearing arrest, a growing number of them have returned home, according to sources in Yangon. A resident of Yangon told RFA that troops at the two airports in Rakhine arrested the passengers on suspicion of planning to join anti-junta armed groups in the state. "The Rakhine people in Yangon were forced to return home [after they were barred from registering for residency], he said. They were told to go back home for military service, even though they were studying and working Although the passengers produced their IDs, they were arrested on suspicion of planning to join the Arakan Army. Kyaukphyu airport in Rakhine state is seen in this undated photo. (Winnet Myanmar) RFA has also received reports of junta troops arresting youths on the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, MandalayMyitkyina Highway, and on their way to Kayin and Chin states. Sources were unable to provide the exact number of detainees and RFA was unable to independently verify their claims. Attempts by RFA to contact Rakhine State Attorney General Hla Thein, the juntas spokesperson in the region, for comment on the arrests and investigation went unanswered Tuesday. During three months of fighting in Rakhine, the AA has captured Pauktaw, Minbya, Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw, Myay Pon and Taung Pyo townships in the state, as well as Paletwa township in neighboring Chin state. The conflict in Rakhine is escalating amid AA offensives on the junta-controlled townships of Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Rathedaung and Ramree. Maungdaw camp captured On Monday, the AA captured a military outpost in Maungdaws Pe Yang Taung area after a nine-hour battle, according to a statement released by the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armies, which includes the AA. AA fighters recovered more than 10 bodies of junta soldiers, as well as weapons and ammunition from the camp, the statement said. The Three Brotherhood Alliance said that over the course of the fighting, which took place from around 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the military launched three airstrikes from fighter jets. The seizure of the outpost in Pe Yang Taung comes days after the AA captured two junta-affiliated Border Guard Force outposts in Bodhigone and Narula, near Maungdaw, on Feb. 16. The military has not released any information about the fighting, and Hla Thein was unavailable for comment. Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Matt Reed. Do Huu Ca had a leading role in a 2012 forceful eviction that the government later deemed illegal. Former Hai Phong police chief Do Huu Ca, seen in an undated photo, faces five charges. Vietnam has indicted former police chief Do Huu Ca, who was a key figure in a violent forced eviction 12 years ago, on five different charges related to bribery, state media reported Tuesday. The retired chief of police in the northeastern city of Hai Phong is among 10 others accused of fraud to usurp assets, tax evasion, illegal purchase of invoices and State budget paying documents, taking bribes and giving bribes. Ca, 65, was arrested about a year ago on the fraud charge and is but one among many Vietnamese officials facing criminal charges amid a sweeping government anti-corruption campaign. He is best known for his leading role in a 2012 forced eviction at a farm in the wetlands of Hai Phongs Tien Lang district that led to a shootout in which four policemen and two civilians were wounded. Six civilians were arrested and prosecuted for their involvement. The eviction was later concluded by the Central Government to be illegal, and several local officials were prosecuted. Ca was the Hai Phong City police chief from 2010 to 2013. He was a member of the Hai Phong City Standing Communist Party Board, the Hai Phong Peoples Committee, the Hai Phong City Peoples Council Session, and party chief and director of the Hai Phong City Police. Translated by An Nguyen. Edited by Eugene Whong and Joshua Lipes. They say police and local authorities are targeting them because of their husbands crimes. While Vietnamese activists Bui Van Thuan and Bui Tuan Lam serve long prison sentences, their wives have told Radio Free Asia they face constant harassment by local authorities. Trinh Thi Nhung, wife of Bui Van Thuan, said she was questioned by police in Thanh Hoa province about a Facebook account which used her husbands photo as her profile picture. Her husband was arrested at the end of August 2021 for a series of Facebook posts, in which he wrote about the internal fighting of state officials, which he dubbed the dog fighting ring. Thuan is serving an eight-year prison sentence for propaganda against the State. On Feb. 16, the police of the ward where his wife Nhung lives with her young children summoned her to the station without saying why. On arriving, the police told her they had discovered a Facebook account with an avatar similar to her husband and they suspected she had used that account to write an article that was not true, she told RFA on Tuesday. Nhung said that she told a security officer of Nghi Son Town Police named Hoang Anh she hadnt used the account. It was created a few days earlier and contained two fabricated articles containing content that, according to her, could be handled under Article 331 of the criminal law for abusing democratic freedoms. When the police asked her to give information about her parents and sign a police statement, she refused because she felt she had nothing to do with the fake account. I hope that in the future I will not be summoned for reasons that are not convincing enough, she said. If this happens again, I will not go. She added in the past week, many strangers had been waiting outside her house day and night, following her every time she went out. RFA Vietnamese called Nghi Son Town Police to verify the information provided by Nhung, but they declined to comment on the phone. Business supporting Bui Tuan Lam struggles Bui Tuan Lam, known as Onion Bae for making a satirical video imitating a celebrity chef and mocking Vietnams public security minister, was arrested on Sept. 7, 2022 on charges of propaganda against the State. The following year, he was sentenced to 5 years and 6 months, and is serving his sentence at Xuan Loc Prison. Activist Bui Tuan Lam before his arrest. (Facebook: Le Thanh Lam) In order to have money to raise three small children and provide supplies for her husband, his wife Le Thanh Lam, sells foodstuffs including seaweed, dried jackfruit and soy sauce. The labels are printed with the slogan, Supporting Bui Tuan Lam. On Feb. 2, the Da Nang city police and market officials seized goods with a value of about US$80 accusing Ms. Lam of selling contraband goods without invoices. On Feb. 19 officials fined her $50 for the crime. She said she believes she is being victimized because, on the day of her husbands trial a police officer pointed at her and said, I will not leave you and your mother alone. I have three small children and support my husband in prison and I run a small business to scrape together every penny, she wrote on Facebook. The dishes I sell are just snacks, regional specialties of farmers, dishes made by the hands of determined people. I make money from honest sweat and effort like any other woman would do for her family, her husband and her children. However, they won't leave me alone. The reporter called the Da Nang mayors management department to ask about Le Thanh Lam's case, but no one answered the phone. Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang. 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. BUDAPEST -- On a chilly Friday night in February, the Hungarian capital's iconic Heroes Square was so crowded that protesters had to climb onto statues. People in the crowd were so far away from the action that, instead of slogans or demands, they shouted "We can't hear you," a desperate appeal for the speakers to turn it up. Budapest has seen its fair share of protests before, but this might have been the first organized by social media influencers. The thousands of people who took to the streets on February 16 were protesting the recent pardoning of a man complicit in the sexual abuse of children, in a case that has roiled Hungary and already claimed the scalps of the country's president and former justice minister. There had been protests the week before, organized by the left-wing opposition Momentum Movement, after independent media revealed that President Katalin Novak had given a presidential pardon to the deputy director of a state-run children's home who had been jailed for trying to hush up allegations of sexual abuse against the director. But this protest was different. Many of those who braved the cold to join the demonstration, which was organized by some of the country's most popular online personalities, were young and not usually interested in politics. That will likely concern right-wing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his ruling Fidesz party ahead of European Parliament and local elections in June. "Most of the world isn't black and white. But the safety of children and violence against children is black and white," Judit Banyai, an organizer of the February 16 Monsters Walk Outside protest, told RFE/RL in a video call. "Pedophilia is black and white," Banyai said. "There is no political or ideological side that considers it acceptable." The pardoned man -- the deputy director of a children's home in Bicske, a town close to the capital, who is known in the media as Endre K. -- had been sentenced to more than three years in prison in 2018 for pressuring the victims to retract their claims of sexual abuse. The director of the institution was sentenced to eight years in prison for abusing at least 10 children between 2004 and 2016. Banyai, who is 26 years old and has two children, became well-known as a contributor to Nemakarokbeleszolni, an Instagram account that posts funny videos about parenting. She has over 50,000 followers on the Meta-owned social media platform, while her co-hosts and the main account have another 300,000 combined. The social media stars from Nemakarokbeleszolni -- which loosely translates as "I don't want to tell you what to do, but," an admonishment often heard by new mothers -- joined forces with Marton Gulyas, the host of independent YouTube channel Partizan, and a number of other popular comedians, YouTubers, and musicians. Their followers are mostly young and liberal in their views and, unlike the youth wing of the Momentum Movement, tend not to closely follow the news. "It's unprecedented that influencers, who are popular especially among young people, are the organizers of and speakers at a protest," Peter Kreko, director of the Budapest-based think tank Political Capital, told RFE/RL following the February 16 protest. The protest was embraced by political parties of varying ideological stripes. In a video message, Peter Marki-Zay, Orban's last challenger as prime minister, endorsed the event, calling on his supporters to attend and canceling his own gathering planned for the next day. Both the left-wing Momentum and the far-right Jobbik party -- never the comfiest of bedfellows -- announced the date and time of the protest on their Facebook pages. Banyai, who was in charge of the designing the graphics for the protest, said they asked members of political parties not to bring their flags so that the protest could remain nonpartizan. Instead, many people at the protest turned up holding Hungarian flags. It is the very absence of politics that makes the demonstration attractive to many Hungarians, says Kreko. "All the research shows that young Hungarians stay away from party politics, and they are a lot less likely to attend a protest that has the mark of a political party." Generally, in Hungary, young people are more likely to join a protest if it concerns social, environmental, or educational issues, rather than straight politics. According to a recent survey, 60 percent of Hungary's under-30s -- a generation that have spent their entire adult lives under Orban -- are unhappy with the current state of democracy; 43 percent don't support any political party. In another study, less than a third of those polled said they would vote in general elections. "The whole thing blew up like crazy. Especially considering how many people shared it on their own pages," Banyai says, referring to Facebook and Instagram, the two most popular social media sites in Hungary. On Heroes Square, first-time protester Gergely Horvath, 32, says he had considered going to anti-government protests before. "But my friends [were never interested]," he said. "So I just never went." He follows most of the organizers on social media and felt that "this was not something I could watch from my armchair." The case has touched a nerve for many Hungarians: a volatile blend of revulsion toward the abusers of children and a widely held sense of injustice that people with friends in high places can get away with anything. The Tip Of The Iceberg There are over 20,000 children in the care of the Hungarian state, approximately one-third of them in children's homes. Many of these institutions struggle with severe staff shortages and dwindling budgets, which in some cases have led to inadequate care and abuse. Many of the protesters are concerned that what happened at Bicske might be the tip of the iceberg. While Novak, the former president and a close ally of Orban, never gave a reason for the pardon, opposition politicians and reports in independent media have claimed Endre K. had multiple ties in the government and with the brother of the Hungarian prime minister. "I find it disgusting that someone who has done something like this can get away with it if they have the right friends," says 26-year-old Barbara Krcmarova, an ethnic Hungarian from Slovakia. Along with her friend, 25-year-old Gyorgyi Abelovska, Krcmarova is at a protest for the first time after moving to the Hungarian capital a few years ago. "We were curious to see a protest in Budapest," says Abelovska, who works as a bartender in a hotel. They don't care about politics, they say, and they don't really follow current affairs. "It's about time the skeletons fall out of the closet," says 53-year-old Tamas Cseh. Unlike many others, he is a seasoned protester and showed up with a combined flag of Hungary and the ethnic Hungarians of Romania's Transylvania region. Wearing a makeshift crown and a Guy Fawkes mask on the back of his head, Cseh talked about various conspiracy theories involving the 1920 Trianon Treaty, which secured the loss of two-thirds of Hungarian territory, international child trafficking, and COVID-19. "The government will kill itself with this," he said. "Politically, they scored an own goal." It's unclear if the protests will fizzle out or if they will have a lasting effect on Orban's increasingly illiberal government, which has been in power since 2010 and promotes itself as the protector of children and "traditional family values." While the Instagram page created after the protest has gained over 80,000 followers, the organizers have not announced another event. The scandal comes at an awkward time for Orban, who has been under fire in Brussels for initially opposing aid to Ukraine and criticized for blocking Sweden's NATO accession. At home, he faces dissent over an enduring cost-of-living crisis. At his annual state of the nation address on February 17, his first public appearance since the president resigned, the prime minister showed little regret. "Good people sometimes make bad decisions," Orban said in his speech, held in front of friends, party members, and journalists from government-affiliated media. Independent and foreign journalists were kept outside. In the winter of 1924, inhabitants of a small village near Tehran looked up as a metal-bodied airplane swooped in to land, bumped along a field, then collapsed in a cloud of dust after its landing gear broke. The pilot of the plane was Swiss aviator Walter Mittelholzer, who had received an invitation from the Persian government to deliver a new Junkers aircraft to the country, which would be renamed Iran in 1935. Kaspar Surber, a Swiss journalist who wrote a book on Mittelholzer, told RFE/RL the aviator was chosen for the flight to Persia in part to "popularize flying" through aerial images he would take there. Mittelholzer was famous at the time for becoming the first person to extensively photograph Switzerland's mountains from an airplane. In the 1920s, Surber says there was something of a "race" between German and British aviation companies to begin air services in Persia, making Mittelholzer's photography skills a key promotional advantage. A Swiss newspaper wrote of the aviator, "The Swiss people know what to expect from their Mr. Mittelholzer, who can not only pilot a plane across unknown countries but also photograph and film in flight." After their ignominious landing 40 kilometers outside of Tehran, Mittelholzer and mechanic Ernst Bissegger had a tense confrontation with villagers before help eventually arrived from the Persian capital and their aircraft was repaired. Mittelholzer and Bissegger's flight of more than 3,000 kilometers from Switzerland to Persia included a standoff with Turkish authorities who confiscated their plane, troubles with poor-quality gasoline purchased in Baghdad, and erroneous maps that forced them into the ill-fated landing during which their plane's landing gear collapsed. Mittelholzers initial impressions of the territory of Persia from above were of "areas that lie desolate and empty and wander past the observing eye for hours. Huge alluvial fans, piles of rubble, and deltas of saline rivers [that] characterize the country." Isolated settlements occasionally came into view as the pair flew over Persian territory. "Here and there a green patch shines," Mittelholzer wrote, "a space in the center of which features residents' mud huts rising on narrow and winding streets. Silver bands mark the irrigation channels at the edges of the gardens." Mittelholzer seized the opportunity to photograph Persia extensively from above in photographs that are now held by the ETH Zurich library. The Swiss aviator and photographer also made use of his camera on the ground to capture a country on the cusp of dramatic change under Reza Shah Pahlavi, a ruler who would become known as Persia's "modernizing strongman." At the time of Mittelholzer's visit to Persia, the country was without major rail or road networks, and camel caravans were still in use as a means of foreign trade, making air transport an enticing possibility for the country's rulers. With the aviation industry still in its infancy in Persia, Mittelholzer and Bissegger had the sky virtually to themselves as they swept low over urban centers to snap images that would soon stun European audiences. Mittelholzer predicted that aerial photography would play a significant role in documentary imagery of the future. "Another hitherto unseen world opens up before us. It is as if the Earth has thereby gained a new face, and man a new, unflawed eye," he wrote in 1928. After spending several weeks inside Iran, the two Swiss aviators eventually made the long trek back to Central Europe by car. Mittelholzer would later co-found a company that became Swissair, Switzerland's national carrier until 2002. He died in a mountaineering accident in 1937 aged 43. In a newspaper obituary, a friend noted that Mittelholzer's death in the mountains that he loved, and that had sparked his extraordinary career, had a certain tragic poetry: "They have embraced him 0n his last wanderings and claimed him, and perhaps he would not have wished for a better end, but alas it came all too soon, there was so much more for him to do." KRIVELJ, Serbia -- "When they mine, it's like an earthquake," said Vukasin Lazarevic, an 84-year-old former miner. "My wife is now sleeping in the kitchen and I'm in the other room because the ceiling in the bedroom has cracked and we're afraid it could kill us during the night," he said. The Lazarevics are part of growing number of protesters from Krivelj, a village of some 700 people a few kilometers from Bor, the city that is home to a massive complex where copper and other minerals are mined and processed by China's Zijin Mining Group. A group of older villagers, such as 80-year-old Ljubomir Radivojevic, are at the core of a blockade of the main road that is keeping trucks and other vehicles from accessing the mine. Locals have long complained about pollution, contaminated drinking water, and other environmental damage from the sprawling operations, which were taken over by the Chinese mining giant in 2018. Frustrated after years of inaction from Serbian authorities over their concerns, Radivojevic and others took to the village streets in late January and blocked access roads to the mines, effectively cutting the site off from supplies needed for its operations. On February 13, Zijin said it was forced to suspend production at the mine because of the blockade. But Radivojevic and others say their struggle is far from over and they will continue to block the main road, setting the stage for a prolonged fight over the future of their village and Zijin's expanding mining operations in eastern Serbia. "[Krivelj] used to be something to be proud of," Radivojevic told RFE/RL's Balkan Service, saying that increased activity at the mine and blasting to expand the site had damaged nearby properties and weakened the village's infrastructure. Zijin entered Serbia in 2018 with backing from Belgrade when it paid $350 million to recapitalize the failing RTB Bor firm, pledging to invest $1.26 billion at the site over the following six years. Since then, the company has revived mining in the area and sought to open new sites with a $3.8 billion investment announced in September to expand its copper mines as demand for it rises due to its value in the global energy transition away from fossil fuels. While Belgrade has praised Zijin's role in rejuvenating the country's mining industry and bringing jobs to the Balkan country, grievances between the company and locals have grown. In Krivelj, residents claim that roads have been turned into industrial ones to accommodate trucks and heavy machinery, which has led to unsafe road conditions. Locals also say polluted soil, air, and water have hurt agricultural production, while the use of explosives to expand the mines has damaged some residential buildings. Protest Continues While residents view the temporary stop in operations announced by Zijin to be a success, the blockade is set to continue while protesters call for government mediation to settle the issue. So far, no talks have been initiated. Dragan Cosic, a resident of Krivelj, says that the mining company has looked to find alternative routes for its trucks amid the blockade and even erected a path by blocking the flow of a river a few kilometers away from the village. He says locals told Serbian authorities, who ordered the removal of the makeshift road. "They blocked the riverbed so they could pass through," Cosic said. "I can't build the most ordinary toilet -- 1 meter by 1 meter -- in my yard without a permit, but the Chinese can block the entire river." Zijin has repeatedly said it operates in compliance with all laws and regulations in Serbia and, in a public statement, claimed it actively seeks dialogue with the organizers of the protests, local authorities, and the Serbian government "so that the road blockade can be resolved peacefully." Since coming to Serbia, Zijin has been fined for pollution violations and in April 2021 the company was ordered to halt work at the copper mine after it failed to follow environmental standards and build a wastewater treatment plant. In the face of public scrutiny, the Chinese company has engaged with disaffected communities by funding local sporting teams in what activists and watchdog groups say is an attempt to repair its tarnished image. Jasna Tomic, a resident who helped draft and submit a proposal to Zijin to resolve the situation, says the situation largely stems from decades of failed government efforts to relocate people from Krivelj. Residents have long complained about living near the mines and authorities discussed relocation, but as Zijin has increased its activity, villagers say they feel desperate. Ana Patrucic, who also drafted the proposal from the protesters sent to Zijin in early February, says it mostly focused on creating obligations from the company and the government to compensate households in the village and create a relocation plan. "With these requests we only drew attention to past disagreements, but since we had no one willing to engage with us we had to express our dissatisfaction by setting up the roadblocks," she said. "People have realized that this is the only thing they have and that they need to fight for this with all means available." Searching For A Solution Krivelj has been surrounded by mines since the 1980s and the village's neighboring areas are dotted with a constellation of plants for processing extracted ore and tailings -- the dumping grounds for mining waste -- as well as quarries. Due to these surroundings and the associated side effects from the mining, the inhabitants of Krivelj have several times asked for the government to relocate them. Lazarevic, the former miner and longtime resident of the village, says he's been waiting for more than two decades for government action and, while he hopes the arrival of Zijin would speed up the process, no progress has been made. "They promise us all kinds of things but they do nothing," he said. Serbia's Mining and Energy Ministry did not respond to RFE/RL's request for comment, but the government has repeatedly promised to move the villagers. In October, Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic said a solution had been reached with Zijin and the villagers. But villagers told RFE/RL many of them have not even seen a relocation plan and that no deal has been reached. "[Right now] it only exists on paper," Lazarevic said. Written by Reid Standish in Prague based on reporting by Branko Pesic in Serbia Two months before the Kremlin launched its full-scale attack on Ukraine, RFE/RL photographer Amos Chapple visited the trenches of what was then a static conflict between Ukrainian troops and Russia-backed separatists in the Luhansk region. Two years later, the Ukrainians who survived the invasion recall what happened on February 24, 2022. The photos below were taken in and around Popasna on December 6-7, on territory that is now under control of Russian forces. Tymur Pliushch The invasion did not come as a total surprise for me. The situation had already become very tense [in the Luhansk region] a week before the invasion. The number of shellings had increased dramatically and the enemy had begun to use heavy weapons. I still hoped for the best, but at the same time I knew that whatever was about to happen I would be involved in, because I was at the front -- or demarcation line as it was called before February 24. I especially remember the night 24 hours before the invasion. Enemy forces fired volleys of Grad rockets at the Pervomaysk-Lysychansk road that connected us with the areas in the rear. I barely slept that night. l was a member of an infantry fighting vehicle crew tasked with covering our frontline positions. I woke up from every noise and mentally went over and over all the actions I needed to take in case of a red alert. The next night, from February 23-24, was actually quite calm. I only learned that a full-scale invasion had started from Telegram, at around 7 or 8 a.m. Perhaps this sounds strange, but my first reaction when I knew the invasion was under way was to let out a deep breath. As I explained above, I had lived for a long time with the unbearable tension of knowing that something was going to happen without knowing what. And then it was happening. I knew that I was where I should be. I just had to perform my duties. At the same time, there was also a sense of bitterness about unfinished plans. I hadnt yet graduated from university or met all the acquaintances I wanted to make. The day of the 24th is a bit of a blur. At around 10 a.m. that day, we got an order to change our location, then were essentially on hold for the rest for the day. I remember two things very clearly. First was an object flying overhead. I still have no idea what it was -- an aircraft or a missile -- and whether it was ours or Russian, but the noise immediately made me dive for cover. The other thing that stays with me from that day was the cold. At the position we were sent to there were empty apartment blocks that had been abandoned since the 2000s. It was the typical landscape of a depressed mining town in eastern Ukraine -- shattered windows, mountains of garbage, and cold that sunk right into your bones. Through the first night of that endless February I didn't sleep at all. And then came the war. Vladislav Bily The 22-year-old lieutenant was born in the western Ukrainian town of Stary Sambor and died on the outskirts of Popasna. During a brief interview as he stood outside his fortified position in December 2021, he told RFE/RL: If a Russian guy comes along and wants to drink some vodka and party, thats fine. But if he comes to my home with weapons, Ill kill him. In reference to the Holodomor (the starvation of millions in Ukraine in the 1930s under Soviet leader Josef Stalin), Bily spoke about his decision to fight, more than 1,000 kilometers from his home: "If we dont come here to the front now, we will die back in our houses later. Theres a Ukrainian saying: 'He who does not defend his family in peacetime will eat his children in times of trouble.'" The young lieutenant commanded an isolated military outpost just a few hundred meters from Russia-backed separatist positions. He was injured in the first days of the invasion, then returned to the front. He was reportedly killed in action on March 11, 2022, amid a hail of Grad, howitzer, and tank fire from advancing Russian troops. His body was never recovered. Bily's mother later told Polish journalist Pawe Szot that she tried to prevent her son from leaving for the war but said, I couldnt stop him. I just told him to be careful, and that he was our only happiness." His parents still hold out hope he will return. "He promised me he would come back, and he always kept his promises. I believe it still. He was a fighter from birth," the soldier's mother said. "We will wait for him. We hope that this hell will end and our child will return home. Iryna Trubnikova At 4 a.m. on the morning of the 24th, there was a knock on the door. We had been living in Kyiv for less than a month. My husband was studying at the National Defense University of Ukraine, and I had joined him in the capital while on maternity leave from the army. We opened the door to a military serviceman in uniform. He told us to get up because Russia had started a full-scale invasion. Then we heard the first booms of explosions in Kyivs Brovary district. It was a shocking sequence of events to wake up to. I started calling my relatives. There was nothing on the television news yet. My relatives were asleep and didn't pick up the phone. I ran to the store, but there were only empty shelves. By the time dawn broke, the military was at full combat readiness. A lot of armored vehicles were driving along the streets to the posts that were just beginning to form. I packed my things and left with my child to drive to Lviv, while my husband and his fellow soldiers remained to defend Kyiv. The two-lane road toward Lviv became five lanes. There were incredible traffic jams. Some cars even drove off the road on either side. Above the highway outside Kyiv, warplanes were roaring overhead, and we didnt know whether they were ours or not. My husband was telling me the situation in the capital: They had gathered, geared up, and were patrolling their area in an armored car. I joined a convoy of cars with families of soldiers who studied at the Defense University. We drove in three vehicles full of women and children. We let each other know about stops and changes of the route by phone in WhatsApp. Instead of the usual five hours, we drove for 24 hours to get to Lviv, exhausted and scared. At that time, no one knew that a full-scale war would affect everywhere, not only the capital. Photojournalist Andriy Dubchak I was in a hotel in Syevyerodonetsk, in the Luhansk region, with the encouraging name Mir, meaning peace in the Russian language. Around 4 a.m., my wife, Liza, called me from Kharkiv. She was shouting into the phone: "War! We are being fired at!" This was the first I knew of the full-scale invasion. I knew it was coming. In the week before February 24, 2022, I came under fire twice, and the intensity of those shellings exceeded anything that had come before. But I had not anticipated the scale of the invasion. When my travel companions started banging on my door saying, "War! War! What are we doing!?" I was ready to go, with enough caffeine in my blood for action. You could see Ukrainian equipment and troops moving everywhere. The military openly said that they were preparing for a guerrilla war after the occupation of the territory we were standing in. We were thinking of going to Mariupol but first drove to Kramatorsk to avoid the potential traffic jams in Syevyerodonetsk. Everyone was on their phones, constantly sending and receiving information. And then came news about an 80-kilometer-long column of Russian military equipment moving toward Kyiv. I had never imagined the Russian Army would invade the Kyiv region from Belarus. ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- Uzbek national Aqylbek Muratbai said he received some unsettling advice from an Uzbek diplomat last year after being invited to his home countrys consulate in Kazakhstans largest city, Almaty. The diplomat, an adviser to the Uzbek consul-general, warned Muratbai (aka Muratov) that he should soften the tone of his statements relating to Karakalpakstan, a nominally autonomous and sovereign republic of Uzbekistan that was roiled by unrest and a lethal state crackdown in 2022. The diplomat raised concerns that some of activists remarks online and in press interviews might be blown up by the mass media, Muratbai said. Muratbai, a 35-year-old ethnic Karakalpak and a resident of Kazakhstan for more than a decade, considered the diplomats intervention an act of intimidation. He recalled that Uzbek diplomats had objected to the tone of a friend and fellow activist in August 2022, the month after protests erupted in Karakalpakstan over constitutional changes that would have brought its legal status closer to that of other regions in Uzbekistan. Less than two weeks later, that activist was detained by Kazakh police and went on to spend exactly a year in jail -- the maximum allowed under Kazakh law for anyone awaiting a decision on extradition to another country -- before being released. The adviser to the consul-general responded to this by smiling and assuring me that I had nothing to worry about, Muratbai said at the time in comments reported by Kazakh media. (Uzbekistans mission in Kazakhstan did not respond to a request to confirm the conversation that Muratbai said took place at Uzbekistans consulate in Almaty in October 2023.) Muratbais nighttime arrest at his home last week and subsequent incarceration in an Almaty detention facility over the weekend suggests that the activist was perfectly right to be concerned. According to his lawyer, Inara Masanova, his February 15 detention was triggered by charges of calls for mass unrest and offenses against public order issued by Uzbek authorities. Masanova was prohibited from attending the February 17 hearing that saw Muratbai transferred to a temporary detention facility in Almaty for an initial period of 40 days. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, human rights lawyer Steve Swerdlow called IT professional Muratbais detention on the extremism-related charges absurd. There has been no Karakalpak voice more clear-eyed, professional, or helpful than Aqylbek for the almost two years since the beginning of the Karakalpakstan crisis, said Swerdlow, a lecturer at the University of Southern California. Unfortunately, Kazakhstan has so far not extended asylum to any Karakalpak activists previously detained and threatened with extradition. While it hasn't forcibly returned them, it has also refused to apply international refugee [protections]. Aqylbek will be the biggest test to date, Swerdlow added. 'Foreign Evil Forces' According to official Uzbek statements, at least 21 people died during unprecedented unrest in Karakalpakstan that peaked July 1 and 2, 2022, overwhelmingly civilians. A group of rights defenders that published a report on the crisis under the umbrella of the Vienna-based Freedom For Eurasia rights group put the figure more than three times higher. Over 500 people were arrested and dozens sentenced to prison terms in trials held in Uzbekistan -- but outside of Karakalpakstan -- last year. There have been no known convictions of military personnel who were reportedly involved in the violence that led to the deaths and injuries. Soon after the bloodshed, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev argued that the violence had been prepared for years by foreign evil forces looking to encroach on the territorial integrity of Uzbekistan and create interethnic conflict. That theory was hard to square with the fact that the protests had emerged immediately after the publication of changes affecting Karakalpakstans legal status -- including one that would have left the territory without the option, again, purely nominal, given Uzbekistan's general political environment -- of holding a referendum on secession from Uzbekistan. Mirziyoev ordered the amendments scrapped after the crisis peaked. But the damage was already done. While Mirziyoev never named a country in his reference to foreign evil forces, Uzbek officials were soon turning their attention toward Kazakhstan, a Central Asian neighbor with whom Tashkent enjoys very good official relations. Kazakhs and Karakalpaks have close linguistic and cultural ties, and Kazakhstan shares a border with the region, which has some 2 million people and accounts for two-fifths of Uzbekistans territory, making it a natural home for a Karakalpak diaspora. In the aftermath of the violence, Muratbai and other members of the diaspora were summoned to talks brokered by Kazakhstans State Committee for National Security and involving representatives of law enforcement from Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan, as well as meetings with Uzbek diplomats. At that point, Muratbai was an active member of the diaspora and organized ethnocultural gatherings in Almaty, though he had refrained from making any strong political statements. He only changed tack after the detention of fellow diaspora members in the fall of 2022, setting up an account on X and giving regular interviews to Kazakh and foreign press on Karakalpakstan, where freedom of speech has been strongly curtailed since the crisis. His most recent interview was on February 1, just two weeks before he was detained, when he gave RFE/RL details of a harsh government campaign targeting youth in Karakalpakstan. Muratbai told RFE/RL that students in Karakalpakstan were being punished for "sharing or merely liking a comment" on social media that authorities deem a threat to the state. How Tashkent's Repression Reached Into Kazakhstan According to Muratbais partner, Indira Beisembaeva, Muratbai was invited the following week for a meeting with Kazakh police at the Almaty City Police Department. Muratbai said he was unable to attend the meeting, scheduled for February 9. After he was eventually detained at his home a week later, he phoned Beisembaeva and told her that an officer from Uzbekistan had participated in the detention. Muratbai is now the sixth member of the Karakalpak diaspora known to have been arrested in Kazakhstan. Koshkorbai Toremuratov -- the activist whose statements Muratbai said had earlier irked Uzbek diplomats -- was first, along with Zhangeldy Zhaqsymbetov, on September 13, 2022. The three other Karakalpaks to spend a year behind bars were female activists Tleubeke Yuldasheva, Ziyar Mirmanbetova, and Raisa Khudaiberganova. All of them have had applications for asylum rejected by Kazakhstan, making them vulnerable to deportation. Uzbek citizenship, meanwhile, is notoriously difficult to break free of. In December, rights activists raised the alarm after another Karakalpak had his Kazakh passport canceled by Kazakh authorities, who cited a claim by Uzbek officials that he had not gone through the proper process of ending his Uzbek nationality. That man was Nietbai Urazbaev, regarded as a diaspora leader and sentenced to 12 years in prison in absentia by an Uzbek court in connection with the unrest. Last month, the 54-year-old Urazbaev died of a heart attack at his daughter's home in Almaty. Muratbai broke the news to media outlets, attributing the death to stress. Toremuratovs year behind bars in Kazakhstan, meanwhile, come on top of the three years he spent in jail in Uzbekistan after being arrested during a trip to his homeland in December 2014. In jail, they would ask me, Why does Kazakhstan allow Karakalpaks to form an official diaspora? Toremuratov told RFE/RL in an interview earlier this week. It was a real problem for them! Although he was sentenced to more than six years in prison, he was released in 2017 -- the year after Mirziyoev came to power -- as the new president oversaw something of a thaw compared to the hyper-authoritarian rule of his long-serving predecessor, the late Islam Karimov. That loosening of control now seems a very long time ago. And so does the announcement -- just two weeks after the Karakalpakstan bloodshed -- of a 14-member parliamentary commission led by Uzbekistan's ombudswoman, Feruza Eshmatova. The commission was tasked with compiling a report on the crisis, including on the states response to the unrest. In its own November 2022 report on the crisis, which found that state troops unjustifiably used force against protesters, the international watchdog Human Rights Watch argued that it was "unrealistic to expect the commission to present genuinely independent findings, especially with respect to the actions of police and security forces." But was it unrealistic to expect a report with findings of some sort, nearly two years after the commission was formed? When I recently asked the ombudswoman about this, she said that the report will be published soon, Gulnoz Mamarasulova, a Swedish-based Uzbek rights activist and arguably the commissions only critical voice, told RFE/RL. But I am not sure it will be published anytime soon. By Rebecca Black, PA An 800 million plus funding package from the Irish Government is not intended as a political statement, a Minister has insisted. Minister for Finance Michael McGrath was speaking as he visited Belfast following the major funding announcement by the Government. The bulk of the funding is earmarked for the proposed upgrade of the A5 road, while there are also allocations for the rebuilding of Casement Park and for cross-border Narrow Water Bridge. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed the funding (Liam McBurney/PA) DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed the funding from the Irish Government, but stressed it is not the job or the responsibility of the Republics Government to provide financial support for the provision of public services and general Northern Ireland infrastructure. Mr McGrath visited Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Tuesday, as well as the City Life Centre on the peace line between the predominantly Catholic/Nationalist Falls Road and predominantly Protestant/Unionist Shankill Road. During his visit to Stormont, he had his first meeting with the new Stormont Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald. Speaking to media, Mr McGrath said he was there to demonstrate the commitment of the Irish Government to working in co operation in areas of common interest. There are so many areas where we can co operate and I look forward to developing a working relationship with you, he said. Stormont Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald and Minister for Finance Michael McGrath spoke to media in the Great Hall at Parliament Buildings, Stormont (Rebecca Black/PA) I look forward to an early meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council where we can develop areas of co-operation into the future. Mr McGrath added that he hopes everyone in Northern Ireland will welcome this investment by the Irish Government, insisting it is not a political statement. My experience as a minister and as a member of parliament in the Republic is people want to see things get done, he said. They want projects to be delivered, and if you take the A5 for example, I dont believe it is in question that the benefits of that project proceeding transcend politics, transcend borders, will result in improved road safety, will save lives and will enhance the development of the economy both north and south. I think it will be welcomed generally and its not intended as any kind of political statement. It is a demonstration of our support and our practical support and our financial support to get projects done that benefit everyone on the island, in particular the people of Northern Ireland. Ms Archibald described a great day, adding that as finance minister she will be grabbing on to with both hands the funding from the Irish Government. Certainly weve had our issues with the Treasury and the financial package, and thats something that Ill continue to work with them on in terms of achieving further clarity and obviously keen to address the underfunding but for today I am really focused on the funding package that has been announced and that really positive news story that that presents, she said. A trip of a lifetime is taking place this week for three Elphin Community College students who are competing in the 2024 Junk Kouture World Final taking place tomorrow, Thursday, in the glamorous surroundings of Monaco. Fifth Year students Mary McNulty, Vanessa Kielty and Martha Nugent will be among 60 finalists from around the globe showcasing their ingenious, eco-friendly couture creations at the prestigious international event venue, the Grimaldi Forum. There are six nations competing with 10 creations on show from each country, including Ireland. In Thursdays final, each country winner will be selected before the world winner is announced. The Elphin team flew out on Tuesday to compete against projects from London, New York, Milan, Paris and Abu Dhabi, and will return to Ireland on Friday night. The STEMinist creation was made from a range of material including medical tubing, corrugated iron roofing, builders line, copper wire and a construction helmet. Pic. Brian McEvoy The inspiration behind their STEMinist creation was to encourage more girls to get involved in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Their design was made from a range of material including medical tubing, corrugated iron roofing, builders line, copper wire and a construction helmet. Its certainly been a busy 18 months for the Elphin Junk Kouture team, from working on the project, winning a national award last year, doing promotion work for Junk Kouture, being recognised at a council civic reception and even appearing on the Late Late Show. Speaking to one of the team, Mary McNulty, before the group travelled to the World Final, she described the thoughts of the exciting adventure that lay ahead as mind-blowing. I didnt know where Monaco was until now but Im very happy about it! The trip out is going to be a great thing, even for a CV saying that we got to the world finals. Im just excited about a lot of networking opportunities, and hopefully there will be other fashion influencers over there, said Mary who hopes to continue her passion for fashion at third-level. Originally from Connecticut, she came to the school only a year and a half ago. On my second day here, I talked to the art teacher about Junk Kouture and then Martha and Vanessa came up to me and said do you want to be in our group?, so it just worked out perfectly, she said. The trip to Monaco is being funded by the Junk Kouture organisers and among the travelling Elphin contingent will be their Art teacher, Susan Prendergast, who has been encouraging Junk Kouture students at the school for almost 10 years. Over this time, the school has had notable success in the competition. In 2015, student Luke McEvoy won the national final outright, receiving a a bursary to the Limerick School of Art and Design. Luke is now working with renowned designer Paul Costello in Dublin. Ms Susan Prendergast, Art teacher and Junk Kouture mentor; Cllr Valerie Byrne, Mary McNulty, Martha Nugent, Vanessa Kielty (Junk Kouture Design Team and world finalists) and Ms Siobhan Cullen, Principal, Elphin Community College, celebrating the success of the team. Speaking to the Roscommon Herald ahead of the Monaco trip, Susan also pointed out that Vanessa Kieltys sister Grace was part of the school team that picked up a category award at the national Junk Kouture final in 2018. Though Vanessa, who is also modelling this years STEMinist creation, was only in sixth class at the time, she was still keen to help Grace and her colleagues. So Vanessa has been fostering this sort of ambition since she was eleven or twelve. Obviously, when you see her now realising her ambition, its like a dream come true, explained Susan, who was keen to mention the incredible support from principal Siobhan Cullen for the initiative in the school. Not surprisingly, this current achievement of a Junk Kouture project appearing on the world stage is one that is creating huge excitement locally. You only dream of these things happening as there are literally thousands of entries from this country alone.The whole school population and their families are really buzzing for the event, said Susan, who spoke to use before the trip to Monaco. She also explained that the world final, now in its second year, was originally due to be held in London, but because of bureaucracy issues experienced by some competing countries with the UK home office, the venue was changed to Monaco. Principal Siobhan Cullen told the Herald that the experience of getting to a world final was a great honour for the students, their families, the school, and the whole county. Its a fantastic achievement for them and I suppose its great to be able to showcase the great work thats going on in the school and Susans work as an art teacher in the Art Department. Its fantastic for this work to be recognised not only nationally but internationally, she said. From the schools point of view, it endorses the very high grades which are achieved consistently by the Art Department in the school at junior cycle and senior cycle level. It is a great endorsement of the work thats carried out there. Ms Cullen highlighted the importance of the key messages around the STEMinist project, namely the whole idea of encouraging more girls to become involved in STEM subjects along with the growing importance of sustainability. She was also glad to say that the three girls will have plenty of support while out in Monaco with many family members travelling out to the big event. They are their greatest supporters, she said. Plans to convert a 150-year-old former Bank of Ireland building in Boyle into town houses and a commercial unit have been lodged with Roscommon County Council. The former bank building located on Main Street, where the current Bank of Ireland branch is also located, was purpose-built c.1870 for the Irish bank on a site extending back to the Boyle river. The main street section of the bank served the community as a bank and managers residence until its closure in 1975. The Georgian four-bay three storey building had been used as rental accommodation and storage but has lain derelict since the early 2000s. Now planning permission is being sought for conservation and restoration works to be carried out to the protected structure for the provision of two town houses and a ground floor commercial unit. The plans include a new traditional shopfront, restoration of rear outbuildings, landscaping and improvement works to a rear yard. An Architectural Heritage Impact Assessment report with the planning files states that the proposed works are vital in safeguarding the future of this structure and are vital to returning this town centre building to use and full occupancy. The report goes on to say that the proposal is considered to be a sympathetic restoration which will stay true to the structures original character. The proposed works have a firm eye on the future of Boyle town and are deemed to be suitably aligned with the objectives set out in Boyle local area plan, it says. The planning documents also refer to the Boyle 2040 report, published in 2020, which states there is currently an 80% residential vacancy and a 60% commercial vacancy in the town centre. These works are vital to returning this building to use and counteracting the above negative trends, the application says. The report adds that the project will only have a positive effect on the character of the structure and the character of Boyle town centre Architectural Conservation Area (ACA). County planners are due to make a decision on the planned development by March 31st next. Vivienne Clarke Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has expressed concern about the significant damage social media is inflicting on young people who develop unrealistic expectations about life. Life can be tough, he told Newstalk Breakfast. One of the concerns I would have is that the social media platforms create an expectation for young people that everyone is happy, everyone has flawless skin, and everyone you know is having a fantastic time, and if you were somehow not perfect looking, and happy, and living this incredible life, that there's something wrong. We've seen very clear relationships between the increase in depression, increase in self-harm, increase in suicide ideation linked to more and more social media use, the Minister said. Mr Donnelly acknowledged that there was not a good history in this country in terms of being open and supporting people with mental health issues. That's something we need to take seriously, we need to invest in, and we need to make sure people are very open talking about these things. My concern would be if we have a group of people within society who are being told that any time you feel down or anxious or worried that that is somehow a mental health issue, which in some cases it may be, but in many cases it may not be. It's just that life is, life can be tough, and there are bumps in the road, and we need to make sure people are resilient. One of my big concerns is around the really significant damage that social media is doing, particularly to younger people, Mr Donnelly warned. We've more and more information coming out from pretty mild effects to catastrophic effects around body dysmorphia, suicide ideation and, and so forth. So I think we need to keep pushing in terms of mental health supports, particularly around youth mental health supports, whilst at the same time making sure that people, as they grow up, can have resilience in life. Because life can be brutal, unfortunately, and we need to try and help people deal with the ups and downs, he added. By Cillian Sherlock, PA Micheal Martin is set to examine the impact of Irish Government investment in Ulster University. The Tanaiste will meet senior university leadership at its new campus in north Belfast, one day after the Irish Government unveiled an 800 million plus funding package for projects benefiting Northern Ireland. He will tour the universitys virtual production studio which is used by aspiring creatives in the screen and games industries. Mr Martin will also hear from students and staff about the universitys partnership with the Irish Governments Shared Island Initiative, including capital investment of 44.5 million in the Derry campus which was announced last year. Mr Martin will hear from staff and students about the universitys partnership with the Shared Island Initiative (Alamy/PA) Ulster University is engaged in a number of projects taking place under the North-South Research Programme. It has carried out numerous cross-border research projects on subjects ranging from the Atlantic Innovation Corridor, to student well-being and medieval history. Mr Martin will also meet members of the East Belfast Mission and the Turas Project at the Skainos Centre, in east Belfast. The groups are both long-standing partners of the Reconciliation Fund and have been awarded grants for work in support of community reconciliation on a number of occasions. By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA A scoping paper on how disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) will be for the Irish workforce is being undertaken by the Government. The Department of Finances chief economist, John McCarthy, said AI is being viewed as the fourth industrial revolution and will be transformative for the Irish economy. The Government is examining the effect the new technology could have. Civil servants are working with the team at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that published research in January indicating that 40 per cent of jobs globally will be affected by AI. The Department is expected to publish a scoping paper on the issue by the summer. Mr McCarthy said digitalisation was evolving rapidly, including the move to remote working during the pandemic and card payments, and now AI was coming at us thick and fast. If you look at previous industrial revolutions, from the spinning wheel to the computer, and economists see AI really as the fourth industrial revolution, there will be job losses, there will be job gains, he said on Wednesday. Some occupations will no longer exist, as was the case back when the spinning wheel was invented, so that will happen. From a policy perspective, the importance is ensuring a smooth transition so that people losing jobs, gain jobs, that they have the requisite skills to move from one sector to the other. Is it a case of complementing labour or substituting labour? We all got computers and suddenly became more productive. We got the spinning wheel 100-200 years ago, we produced more jumpers, we became more productive. The worry is with this new technology, are more jobs going to be lost than are gained? The answer is, nobody knows. The IMF research indicated that in advanced economies, the proportion of jobs that could be affected by AI is higher (60 per cent). I think what we can definitively say about about AI, is that it is going to be transformative. Lets hope its transformative good, and policy has a role to play here, but you cant rule out the possibility of transformative bad, Mr McCarthy said. By Jonathan McCambridge and David Young, PA The UK government will publish terms of reference for an independent inquiry into the Omagh bomb atrocity later on Wednesday, a British minister has said. Jonathan Caine, speaking during a visit to a shared education campus in Limavady, said he was very pleased the UK government was able to take the step. His remarks came as Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he did not think it made sense to have public inquiries into Omagh on both sides of the border. Northern Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris ordered the independent inquiry into the 1998 Omagh bombing last year in response to a court judgment that directed the UK government to establish some form of investigation. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden died in the Real IRA bombing, took the legal challenge that resulted in the judge directing the state to act. Lord Caine was speaking during a visit to Limavady. Photo: Jacob King/PA. The dissident republican bomb exploded in the Co Tyrone town on August 15th 1998, killing 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Hundreds more were injured. Mr Caine said: On the Omagh terms of reference, they are being published today. I am very pleased we have been able to take this forward as a government and deliver a public inquiry in response to the Gallagher judgment. A number of families of Omagh victims have repeatedly called for an inquiry to also be carried out into the bombing in the Republic. Mr Caine said: As far as the Irish Government are concerned, I did raise this with them directly at the last meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. It is something we will keep raising with them for sure. Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle ONeill said: I have always supported a public inquiry when it comes to Omagh. I think that is really important that we allow those families to get to the truth, that they get to the truth that they have been campaigning for for many, many years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: We have discussed with the Irish Government issues related to legacy. The Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar) was in Northern Ireland just a couple of weeks ago and I took the opportunity to urge full co-operation and collaboration with all public inquiries and investigations. Tanaiste Micheal Martin during a visit to Ulster University in Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA. Speaking during a visit to Belfast, Mr Martin denied that the Government had not done enough to pursue those responsible for Troubles crimes. He said: There is no amnesty in the Republic and there never has been an amnesty given in the Republic. The gardai and the Director of Public Prosecutions are independent of Government. No direction has ever been given to either not to pursue cases that arose from the Troubles and not to prosecute, those are the facts. In respect of in and around Omagh, people were convicted in the Republic and imprisoned. More broadly speaking, in terms of the inquiry, I havent seen the terms of reference, we have been seeking the terms of reference for quite some time so that we could then respond. We have made it very clear that we would be fully co-operative with any such inquiry. In our view, one inquiry is optimal, two separate inquiries to me doesnt make sense because there would be clear overlap and duplication and maybe crossing each other. We have mechanisms, we have changed the law in the Republic on a number of occasions to facilitate the provision of information that the Republic may have in respect of certain crimes. Mr Martin added: Our view is, well see the terms of reference and then well work to ensure that we contribute to that inquiry. Farmers Protest 2024 Delhi Chalo march begins again Shambhu Khanauri borders Farmers unions started 'Delhi Chalo' march Farmers' Protest 2024 Latest News: Over 200 farmer unions started 'Delhi Chalo' march on February 13 to protest against the Central government and emphasize on their demands that include a legal assurance about Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crop production. The protest is said to be a repeat of what happened in 2021. However, this year, the farmers and the Union Ministers held a couple of meetings before the protesting farmers even reached Delhi. Unfortunately, all the meetings remained inconclusive due to which the farmers, who were protesting at Shambhu border and Khanauri border, have started to march towards Delhi yet again. Advertisement Farmers' Protest 2024 Demands: The farmers have been protesting to emphasize their demands that include a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP), implementation of the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, and farm debt waiver. Besides, they also believe that the Centre should provide justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Farmers reject Centre's offer Advertisement After fourth round of meetings between the farmers and the Union Ministers, the protesting farmers were proposed an offer regarding the contract system for MSP which the farmers denied and rejected it. We will peacefully start our march towards Delhi. We appeal the Centre government to resolve our issues by holding talks or let us march to Delhi by removing the barricades erected on the Punjab-Haryana boundary," a farmer leader said. (For more news apart from farmers' protest 2024, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Farmers Protest 2024 Haryana Police tear gas shells Delhi Chalo march the Haryana Police used tear gas on them Farmers' Protest 2024 Latest News: After the fourth round of meetings between the farmers and the Union Ministers, the protesting farmers were proposed an offer regarding the contract system for MSP which the farmers denied and rejected it. As a result, the farmers started their march towards Delhi, however, the Haryana Police used tear gas on them. This happened after the farmers started their march to Delhi to protest against the Central Government. Farmers want to go to Delhi and emphasize on their demands and stage a protest against the Government. They're determined to go to Delhi and make their voices heard. Advertisement The farmers have been protesting to emphasize their demands that include a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP), implementation of the Swaminathan Commissions recommendations, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, and farm debt waiver. Besides, they also believe that the Centre should provide justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Despite facing obstacles and resistance, the farmers remain steadfast in their resolve to achieve their demands and bring about meaningful change in agricultural policies. We will peacefully start our march towards Delhi. We appeal the Centre government to resolve our issues by holding talks or let us march to Delhi by removing the barricades erected on the Punjab-Haryana boundary," a farmer leader said. Advertisement (For more news apart from farmers' protest 2024, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) The European Commission has launched a formal investigation against TikTok for allegedly breaching the Digital Services Act or DSA. The formal probe will focus on the areas related to child protection, advertising transparency, data access for researchers, addictive design and harmful content. EU industry chief Thierry Breton announced the decision, "We are launching this formal infringement proceeding today to ensure that proportionate action is taken to protect the physical and emotional well-being of young Europeans. We must spare no effort to protect our children". The agency stated that the China-based ByteDance's video platform's algorithmic system may stimulate behavioral addictions and/or so called 'rabbit hole effects'. Also, it is concerned about Tiktok's age verification policies which might 'not be reasonable, proportionate and effective' according to the DSA standards. "TikTok needs to take a close look at the services they offer and carefully consider the risks that they pose to their users - young as well as old," European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager said. "TikTok has pioneered features and settings to protect teens and keep under 13s off the platform, issues the whole industry is grappling with," a TikTok spokesperson ensured. "We'll continue to work with experts and industry to keep young people on TikTok safe, and look forward to now having the opportunity to explain this work in detail to the Commission." If proven guilty, the video-sharing app having over 142 million monthly users in the EU, would have to pay up to 6 percent of its global turnover. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Telefonica Deutschland Holding AG (TELDF.OB,TFTHF.OB), a German telecom major, on Wednesday reported a rise in preliminary profit and revenue for the full year. For the 12-month period, the company's total profit improved to 273 million euros, up 17.8 percent from previous year. Operating income climbed by 21.4 percent to 291 million euros from last year. OIBDA was up at 2.617 billion euros, up 3.1 percent from previous year. Excluding items, EBITDA stood at 2.617 billion euros, for the year. Other income moved up by 4.7 percent to 160 million euros from 2022. Revenue was 8.614 billion euros, up 4.7 percent from previous year, on sustained mobile service revenue momentum. Mobile service revenue moved up by 2.7 percent to 5.895 billion euros, from last year. Telefonica Deutschland said that it intends to propose a dividend of EURc 18 per share to the annual general meeting. Looking ahead, for the full-year 2024, the company expects a slightly positive year-over-year revenue growth. Excluding items, telecom major projects an annual low to low-mid single-digit EBITDA percentage growth. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The United States has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the fighting in Gaza. The UN Security Council met again in emergency session in New York on Gaza Tuesday, where Algeria put forward a resolution on behalf of Arab States demanding "an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties". Algeria's resolution gained support from 13 out of the 15 members around the iconic horseshoe table, while the United Kingdom abstained from voting. The US has proposed its own draft resolution that would condemn Hamas but also support a temporary ceasefire based on the formula that all hostages are released. Speaking after the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said her delegation is willing to engage constructively with Council members on her delegation's draft resolution. News reports suggest negotiations on the alternative text will be far from easy, with both Russia and China voicing strong opposition to the third use of a veto by the US on ceasefire resolutions. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Washington continues to provide Israel with "a license to kill," adding that "Full responsibility for the consequences falls on Washington." Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun said it is totally untenable of the US to argue that the draft jeopardizes ongoing talks. Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama said, "Algeria will return to knock on the doors of the Security Council once again to put an end to the bloodshed". "We will not stop until this Council shoulders its responsibility in full and imposes an immediate ceasefire. We will never tire, and we will never stop." The Council has held more than a dozen meetings on the war in Gaza, including an open debate in late January, with more than 70 UN Member States voicing serious concerns about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. Many called on the Security Council to "work harder" to end the war, which began in October when Israeli forces invaded the Palestinian enclave in response to Hamas' attacks in Israel that left 1,200 dead and 240 taken hostage. To date, almost 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's retaliation. Israeli is unleashing its military operation in Rafah, where more than a million displaced Gazans are sheltering with nowhere else to run to. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Space operators from 25 partner nations gathered to participate in Global Sentinel, U.S. Space Command's marquee exercise focused on security cooperation and operational collaboration in the space. Throughout the two-week exercise held at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, each participating nation organized into Regional Space Operations Centers aligned to maintain command and control across an array of space sensors. The scenarios presented during the exercise were designed to improve space situational awareness and strengthen interoperability among the participating nations, the Pentagon said. In addition to the U.S., this year's participants included Italy, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. India and Mexico also attended the last two days of the exercise as observers along with representatives from NATO. Global Sentinel is the only exercise of its kind that brings together multinational partners in a single venue to collaborate on issues focused on space security. Dr. John F. Plumb, assistant secretary of defense for space policy, has emphasized the critical role of cooperation among allies as global competitors increasingly look to space as the next frontier of warfare. In outlining the U.S. approach for maintaining its edge in space, Plumb emphasized that these partnerships are key to building "an asymmetric advantage and force multiplier that neither China nor Russia could ever hope to match." Global Sentinel, which began in 2014 as a space situational awareness tabletop event among seven nations, has grown in both size and complexity in recent years. A total of 246 participants, including 177 international partners, were involved in this year's exercise. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News EU exports to Russia have shrunk to 37 percent of their level since the war in Ukraine began in spring 2022, mainly due to sanctions, a study by the ifo Institute and EconPol Europe showed Wednesday. "One reason for the still high volume of exports to Russia is that only 32 percent of all products from the EU are subject to sanctions," Feodora Teti, deputy director of the ifo Center for International Economics, said. Further, it is possible to deliver many of EU goods subject to sanctions to Russia indirectly via third countries, Teti said citing the new ifo sanctions database. China supplies 61 percent of all products subjects to sanctions to Russia. This proportion rose from just 35 percent in 2021. Turkey provides 13 percent of all products under sanctions and Armenia supplies nearly 1 percent. Meanwhile, EU exports to Armenia have doubled. "In the case of China, the increase in exports to Russia can at least partly be explained by stronger domestic production," Teti said. "When it comes to Turkey and Armenia, however, the sudden and sharp increase in exports to Russia suggests that sanctions are being circumvented." For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. The Canadian market is down in negative territory a few minutes before noon on Wednesday with losses in and materials sectors offsetting gains in energy sector. The mood is a bit cautious with investors awaiting the release of the minutes of the Federal Reserve's latest monetary policy meeting, due later in the day. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index, which dropped to 21,118.09, is down 64.13 points or 0.3% at 21,153.40 a few minutes before noon. The Energy Capped Index is up 2.5%. Advantage Oil & Gas (AAV.TO), Peyto Exploration and Development Corp (PEY.TO), Tourmaline Oil Corp (TOU.TO), Nuvista Energy (NVA.TO), Arc Resources (ARX.TO), Birchcliff Energy (BIR.TO), Paramount Resources (POU.TO), Baytex Energy (BTE.TO), Whitecap Resources (WCP.TO) and Imperial Oil (IMO.TO) are down 3 to 6%. Technology stocks Hut 8 Corp (HUT.TO), Computer Modelling Group (CMG.TO), Kinaxis Inc (KXS.TO), Open Text Corp (OTEX.TO), Shopify Inc (SHOP.TO) and Enghouse Systems (ENGH.TO) are down 3 to 5%. Among materials shares, Wheaton Precious Metals (WPM.TO) is plunging nearly 9%. Ssr Mining (SSRM.TO) is down 3.2%, while Kinross Gold Corp (K.TO), Osisko Mining (OSK.TO), Torex Gold Resources (TXG.TO) and Ivanhoe Mines (IVN.TO) are down 2 to 3.5%. Methanex Corp (MX.TO) and First Quantum Minerals (FM.TO) are up 3.6% and 3.5%, respectively. Lithium Americas Argentina Corp (LAAC.TO), Ero Copper (ERO.TO), Novagold Resources (NG.TO) and Interfor Corp (IFP.TO) are gaining 2 to 2.2%. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The PARROT pulsar By The Division of Communications and Advancement The motion of the planets through the night sky has captivated humanity since prehistoric times. The Great Saturn-Jupiter Conjunction of 2020 was particularly special. This remarkable astronomical event, which brought these two gas giants closer together than they had been for nearly four centuries, offered an enticing spectacle for stargazers worldwide. Professional astronomers, with telescopes capable of seeing well beyond the relative backyard of our solar system, also couldnt resist the temptation to look. Among those eager to witness this event was the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), with its MeerKAT radio telescope. Bright moving targets such as planets are notoriously difficult to image accurately with radio interferometers, so the challenge of processing the data fell to the world experts of the Rhodes Centre for Radio Astronomy Techniques & Technologies (RATT) team, working together with the Radio Astronomy Research Group (RARG) at SARAO, and a number of international collaborators from as far away as France, the UK, and Australia. In particular, this has required RATT and RARG to make a movie of the observation which is very unusual, since radio astronomers normally concentrate on making deep, static, still images of the sky. The spectacular results of this movie-making can be seen here (or here on YouTube). RATT was established in 2012 around the eponymous SKA (SARChI) Research Chair awarded to Rhodes Universitys Distinguished Professor Oleg Smirnov. Prof Smirnov also leads the RARG group at SARAO. Last year, RATT won the prestigious NRF Science Team Award. Jupiter, with its 10-hour rotation period and intriguing "radiation belts, has long been a fascinating target for radio observations (in fact, some of the pioneering radio astronomy work at Rhodes University was focused on Jupiter). These belts, comprised of charged particles trapped within the planet's magnetic field, create mesmerising visuals when observed in the radio spectrum. However, during the Great Conjunction, MeerKAT's observations unveiled more than just Jupiter's magnetic mysteries. The photobombers As MeerKAT observed the Conjunction, an interesting twist occurred when two Fanaroff-Riley Type II (FRII) radio galaxies made an appearance. Such galaxies host supermassive black holes at their centres, which emit jets of plasma that blow out massive radio lobes in the surrounding intergalactic medium, giving these objects their distinctive double-lobed, barbell-like appearance. These "photobombers" added an extra visual treat to the already captivating event, as well as providing a fitting connection to a famous South African. The Fanaroff-Riley classification of radio galaxies, dating back to 1974 and still in use today, was the brainchild of Dr Bernard Fanaroff and his PhD supervisor at the time, Dr Julia Riley. Dr Fanaroff subsequently became the first director of SKA South Africa the precursor to SARAO and played a crucial role in conceiving and building MeerKAT. FRIIs are not uncommon in the Universe, and MeerKATs exquisite sensitivity seems to reveal more of them everywhere it looks. Having two FRIIs join the Great Conjunction was thus more of a pleasing coincidence than a true surprise. The true surprise was still in store! said Prof Smirnov and explained how a completely unanticipated transient radio source suddenly switched on in the vicinity of Saturn, and lasted for about 45 minutes, before winking out again. Such transient sources are very rare, and almost always point to something exciting going on. Over the next few months, MeerKAT returned to the same location on the sky (the two planets having long vacated the scene) to try to get to the bottom of things. The source winked, and winked again. Eventually, MeerKAT detected pulsed emission coincident with the winking, indicating that it was produced by a pulsar. This newfound pulsar was named a PARROT, short for pulsar with anomalous refraction recurring on odd timescales. Of course, we loved this acronym, said Prof Smirnov. The Rat & Parrot has been a favourite watering hole for generations of Rhodes University staff and students. In fact, one of the technical breakthroughs that made this discovery possible (Smirnov & Tasse 2015) started over drinks at the Rat & Parrot. In a way, it feels like we are paying homage to that. Pulsars are the remnants of massive stars that have ended their life in a supernova explosion. As the outer layers of the star blow away, its core collapses into an incredibly dense neutron star, which retains most of the angular momentum and magnetic field of its progenitor. What remains is a very rapidly rotating (with periods of milliseconds to seconds), extremely magnetised object. If its magnetic field axis is tilted with respect to its spin axis, it creates two beams of powerful radio emission as it swings around like a cosmic lighthouse. If the Earth happens to be in the path of such a beam, then every time the beam sweeps through every 1.6 seconds, in the case of the PARROT we observe a distinct pulse of emission that has given pulsars their name, explained Prof Smirnov. In a further pleasing piece of symmetry, the Great Conjunction movie showcases another object with a tilted, rotating magnetic field Jupiter itself. Though much slower (10-hour period), bigger and far less dense and magnetised than a neutron star, Jupiter provides a perfect visual illustration of a rotating magnetosphere which is exactly the mechanism that drives its radiation belts. A peculiar pulsar Thousands of pulsars have been discovered, but what sets the PARROT apart is its remarkable behaviour. The radio signal from the PARROT occasionally experiences amplification by factors of ten or more within minutes. During the Great Conjunction, this amplification reached nearly a factor of 100. Pulsars, and other very compact radio-emitting objects, often exhibit variations due to scintillation in the solar wind and interstellar medium. Radio scintillation is not unlike the optical twinkling in the atmosphere that we can see by eye when we look up at the stars. However, no amount of twinkling will brighten a star by a factor of ten or more, and the same goes for scintillation! Such extreme amplification behaviour, known as lensing, on such short timescales is virtually unprecedented, said Prof Smirnov. The exact cause of this phenomenon remains a topic for future research, with potential explanations ranging from unusual structures in the solar wind to dense plasma in the pulsar's environment. The discovery of the PARROT pulsar during MeerKAT's observation of the Great Conjunction has opened up new avenues of research and presented intriguing questions for astronomers. This discovery was detailed in a paper titled "The RATT PARROT: Serendipitous Discovery of a Peculiarly Scintillating Pulsar in MeerKAT Imaging Observations of the Great Saturn-Jupiter Conjunction of 2020," led by Prof Smirnov and published by the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. It will also be presented at this weeks MeerKAT@5 conference, which celebrates 5 years of MeerKAT operations. Finding PARROTs The discovery of the PARROT highlights MeerKAT's capabilities and its potential for uncovering more such transients and variables in the cosmos. As astronomers delve deeper into understanding the nature of this peculiar pulsar and the mechanisms behind its extraordinary radio amplifications, the scientific community eagerly anticipates further revelations and insights from MeerKAT's observations. The Great Saturn-Jupiter Conjunction of 2020, though a celestial event steeped in history, continues to surprise and inspire astronomers. The serendipitous discovery of the PARROT pulsar during MeerKAT's observation of this event adds a fascinating chapter to our understanding of the cosmos, reminding us that the Universe always has more secrets waiting to be unveiled. Daytona Introduces Sporty Clip-On Handlebars for 2024 Honda CB350 Lineup, Enhancing its Neo-Retro Appeal The 350cc motorcycle market in India has been dominated by Royal Enfields Classic 350, but competitors are emerging to grab a share of this lucrative niche. The recent introduction of the Jawa 350 and updated Hondas CB350 lineup has added more variety to this segment. In Japan, where the CB350 is available, motorcycle enthusiasts can now opt for a sportier riding experience with the introduction of race-style clip-on handlebars from Daytona. Exploring the 2024 Honda CB350 Lineup with Daytonas Clip-On Handlebars The Honda CB350 lineup has made a significant impact in India, competing with the iconic Royal Enfield Classic 350. Sold in Japan, Australia, and select ASEAN nations, these motorcycles are manufactured in India and then shipped to Japan, where they are marketed under the GB350 branding. The standard GB350 corresponds to Indias Hness CB350, GB350 S to CB350 RS, and GB350 C to CB350 (Classic). While the entire 2024 CB350 lineup in Japan comes equipped with conventional handlebars, the renowned aftermarket parts manufacturer, Daytona Corp, has introduced a new set of sporty clip-on handlebars designed specifically for the Honda CB350 lineup. This departure from conventional styling adds a neo-retro touch to the motorcycles, bringing them closer to the aesthetics of a Cafe Racer. In 2023, Honda in India launched the My CB, My Way campaign, offering Custom Kits for the CB350. One of the most appealing kits was the Cafe Racer Custom, priced at Rs. 22,200 for CB350 and Rs. 17,500 for CB350 RS. However, these kits missed the inclusion of clip-on handlebars, which are now offered by Daytona as a separate accessory. Discovering the Daytona Kit Features Daytonas kit, named Separate Handset GB350/S (2023 Specification), includes a top bridge, handle clamp, handle, throttle sleeve, clutch cable, throttle cable, and a brake hose. The kit is available in two finishes Buffed (chrome) and Matte Black. The Buffed finish complements the Hness CB350 (GB350), while the Matte Black suits the CB350 RS (GB350 S). The pricing for the Buffed finish is JPY 61,600, and the Matte Black is priced at JPY 57,200, approximately Rs. 34,000 and Rs. 31,600 in Indian currency, considering current exchange rates. The enhancement of the Honda CB350 lineup with Daytonas clip-on handlebars not only elevates the visual appeal but also offers riders a chance to personalize their motorcycles for a sportier and more dynamic riding experience. As the retro classic motorcycle segment continues to evolve, aftermarket upgrades like these contribute to the individuality and customization options available to motorcycle enthusiasts. Its worth noting that the 2024 Honda CB350 lineup, whether in its standard form or with Daytonas clip-on handlebars, retains its reliable performance with a single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC 4V 348cc engine generating 20.7 bhp and 29.4 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox and features a slipper clutch for smoother gear transitions. As the demand for unique and customized motorcycles grows, collaborations between manufacturers and aftermarket specialists like Daytona are likely to shape the future of the motorcycle market. A couple dozen protesters gathered outside the Shadowridge Country Club on Thursday to protest a scheduled speech by Janet Levy, a political activist who has spoken across the country on what she calls the Islamist infiltration of American society. But Levy fell ill early Thursday morning, and at the last minute had to cancel her appearance as the keynote speaker for a meeting of the Federation of Republican Women in Vista, according to the groups president. Levy, whose writings appear on websites such as American Thinker, could not be reached for comment. Her blogs also appear on womenagainstsharia.com, including a 2010 posting questioning whether the United States is a de facto sharia state, and arguing that Muslims now enjoy more freedom of religion and speech under our Bill of Rights than non-Muslims. Advertisement Saundra Waecker, president of the local Federation chapter, said she was surprised by the small protest outside the event. I cant believe its controversial to look at the other side the infiltration, the money being spent, Waecker said Among the attendees at the luncheon was Juliet Cunningham, an Iraqi Christian who said she moved to the United States in 1979. She said she wanted to hear Levy speak because she educates people about Islam. Outside, however, two dozen or so protesters many of whom oppose the policies of President Donald Trump held up signs with phrases supporting Muslims or with statements such as Love trumps hate. Vista resident Judith Brighton, holding a sign that read I stand with my Muslim neighbor, said she came to protest because I am just thoroughly opposed to fear-mongering. Have you seen her (writings)? Brighton asked. If you have, then you know why I came. The Federation of Republican Women in Vista is a local chapter of a national organization founded in 1938, that aims to inform the public through political and legislation action, and promote the principles and policies of the Republican party, according to the groups website. teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT U.S. vetoes Security Council draft resolution demanding humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza Xinhua) 08:07, February 21, 2024 Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. representative to the United Nations, briefs reporters at the UN headquarters in New York, Aug. 1, 2023. (Manuel Elias/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said before the vote that Washington continues to give Israel "a license to kill," asking Security Council members "to counter the lawlessness of Washington." UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The United States on Tuesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. The draft resolution won 13 votes in favor among the 15 members of the Security Council. The United States voted against it. Britain abstained. To be adopted, a Security Council draft resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no veto from any of the council's five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States. The Algerian-drafted resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and would have deplored all attacks against civilians. The draft would have rejected forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population and would have demanded unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. The draft also would have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Before the vote on the draft resolution, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said the Algerian draft would jeopardize ongoing efforts toward a hostage deal. She said her delegation was working on a rival draft resolution that would call for a "temporary cease-fire" based on the formula that all hostages are released. Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said before the vote that Washington continues to give Israel "a license to kill." He asked Security Council members "to counter the lawlessness of Washington." Speaking after the vote, Nebenzia said full responsibility for the consequences of Tuesday's outcome falls on Washington, no matter how hard the United States tries to evade it by talking about its "important mediation efforts." In an explanation of vote after the voting, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, expressed his country's strong disappointment at and dissatisfaction with the outcome of the vote. "The U.S. veto sent a wrong message, pushing the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one," he said. The U.S. claim that the Algerian-drafted resolution would interfere in ongoing diplomatic efforts is totally untenable, said Zhang. The Security Council must take action to push for a cease-fire, which is its legal responsibility. The U.S. veto cannot muffle the strong call for a cease-fire and an end to the war in Gaza. The Security Council cannot stop its work to uphold justice and fulfill its responsibilities just because of the veto, he said. French UN ambassador Nicholas de Riviere regretted that the draft resolution was not adopted given the disastrous situation on the ground. "There is an extreme urgency to conclude, without further delay, an agreement on a cease-fire, which finally guarantees the protection of all civilians and the massive delivery of emergency aid," he said. "The human toll and humanitarian situation in Gaza are intolerable and Israeli operations must stop." The Algerian text was the eighth Gaza-related draft resolution that the Security Council has voted on since Oct. 7, 2023. Only two draft resolutions have been adopted, neither of which calls for a cease-fire. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Press Release February 21, 2024 Poe seeks supplementary allowances, benefits for workers Sen. Grace Poe appealed to employers to provide allowances and benefits to their workers to help them cope with the rising prices of commodities and fuel products. Poe said the assistance will help the country's wage earners get by as the Senate approved on third and final reading the P100 wage hike bill. "I urge employers with the means to provide supplementary allowances or benefits to extend this assistance to their employees," said Poe, co-author of the bill. "I am sure the businesses that truly care about their workers would find a way to make necessary adjustments," she added. The proposed wage hike will benefit the workers in the private sector. Poe pointed out that the last legislated national wage hike was implemented in the Philippines 35 years ago. In 1989, the Wage Rationalization Act ordered a 25 hike from the national minimum wage of 64. "Bagama't may significant na pagtaas na ang minimum wage simula noon. Hirap maramdaman ito ng ating mga kababayan dahil sa patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin," she said "Para sa karamihan, kahit anong sipag at diskarte ay talagang di pa rin sapat," she added. Poe cited a January 2024 study by IBON foundation which said that a family of five in Metro Manila needs 1,193 a day or 25,946 a month to live decently. "However, the existing minimum wage in the region is still pegged at 610 - o kalahati lamang ng wage standard," she said. "Ano bang mabibili natin sa 610? Considering the food threshold, a family of five will need around 300 daily to meet the minimum basic food needs," she added. Households are left with just around 310 to cover basic non-food needs such as clothing, housing, light, water, medical care, education, transportation and communication, household operations and personal care, which Poe said was not enough. In addressing concerns that the proposal will impact small businesses, Poe reiterated that the intent of the bill remains faithful to the exemptions on wage increase set under Republic Act Nos. 6272 or the Wage Rationalization Act and 9178 or the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act. These laws cover businesses with less than 10 employees and a capitalization of not more than P3 million. Poe said the bill is a worthy pursuit to provide the hardworking Filipino labor force with a decent living wage that will allow their families to enjoy a respectable standard of living. "In the end, the labor sector is the backbone of our economy. Pagtulung-tulungan nating mabigyan ang ating mga manggagawa ng disenteng buhay ang kanilang pamilya," Poe said. The black hole in the newly-discovered quasar SMSS J052915.80-435152.0 (hereafter called J0529-4351) accretes around one solar mass per day onto an existing mass of 17 billion solar masses. In 1963, the Dutch-born American astronomer Maarten Schmidt identified the first quasar, known as 3C 273. It appeared as a remarkably bright star of 12th magnitude, and its redshift suggested that it was among the most distant objects known in the Universe at the time. The two facts together implied an implausibly huge output of light and, ever since then, newly found quasars have impressed with their immense energy release from a small region of space. This could only be explained as gravitational energy being converted into heat and light within a highly viscous accretion disk around a supermassive black hole. Today, around a million quasars are known, although some specimens stand out from the crowd: in 2015, the ultra-luminous quasar J0100+2802 was identified with a supermassive black hole of 10 billion solar masses. In 2018, an even more luminous object was found, J2157-3602, with a supermassive black hole of 24 billion solar masses. Although their luminosity implies rapid growth, their existence is hard to explain: when black holes start from the remnant of a stellar collapse and grow episodically, they are not expected to reach the evident masses in the time from the Big Bang to the epoch of their observation. The new record-breaking quasar is so far away from Earth that its light took over 12 billion years to reach us. Called J0529-4351, the object was first detected using a 2.3-m telescope at the ANU Siding Spring Observatory. Australian National University astronomer Christian Wolf and colleagues then turned to one of the largest telescopes in the world, ESOs Very Large Telescope, to confirm the full nature of the black hole and measure its mass. We have discovered the fastest-growing black hole known to date. It has a mass of 17 billion Suns, and eats just over a Sun per day. This makes it the most luminous object in the known Universe, Dr. Wolf said. The matter being pulled in toward this black hole, in the form of a disk, emits so much energy that J0529-4351 is over 500 trillion times more luminous than the Sun. All this light comes from a hot accretion disk that measures seven light-years in diameter this must be the largest accretion disk in the Universe, said Australian National University Ph.D. student Samuel Lai. Its a surprise it remained undetected until now, given what we know about many other, less impressive black holes. It was hiding in plain sight, said Dr. Christopher Onken, also from Australian National University. The discovery is reported in a paper in the journal Nature Astronomy. _____ C. Wolf et al. The accretion of a solar mass per day by a 17-billion solar mass black hole. Nat Astron, published online February 19, 2024; doi: 10.1038/s41550-024-02195-x Kuiper Belt objects (KBOs) are thought to be the dominant source of interplanetary dust particles in the outer Solar System due to both collisions between KBOs and their continual bombardment by interstellar dust particles. New measurements by NASAs New Horizons spacecraft show higher than model-predicted levels of interstellar dust as the spacecraft approaches the putative outer edge of the Kuiper Belt. Interplanetary dust particles carry information about the birth and evolution of planetary bodies within our Solar System. The orbital distribution of these dust particles is driven by the forces of gravity from the Sun and planets, radiation pressure etc. Additionally, the size and mass of individual particles are constantly evolving due to sputtering and mutual collisions. While Jupiter-family comets and asteroids dominate the production of interplanetary dust particles in the inner Solar System, the Kuiper Belt is the dominant source of the particles in the outer Solar System from either mutual KBO collisions or interstellar dust bombardment. Speeding through the outer edges of the Kuiper Belt, the New Horizons Venetia Burney Student Dust Counter (SDC) instrument is now detecting higher than expected levels of interplanetary dust. The readings contribute to a growing body of evidence that suggests the outer edge of the main Kuiper Belt could extend billions of km farther than current estimates or that there could even be a second belt beyond the one we already know. New Horizons is making the first direct measurements of interplanetary dust far beyond Neptune and Pluto, so every observation could lead to a discovery, said lead author Alex Doner, a graduate student at the University of Colorado Boulder who serves as SDC lead. The idea that we might have detected an extended Kuiper Belt with a whole new population of objects colliding and producing more dust offers another clue in solving the mysteries of the Solar Systems most distant regions. The SDC instrument has detected microscopic dust grains produced by collisions among asteroids, comets and Kuiper Belt objects all along New Horizons 18-year journey across our Solar System which after launch in 2006 included historic flybys of Pluto in 2015 and Arrokoth in 2019. The first science instrument on a NASA planetary mission to be designed, built and flown by students, the SDC counts and measures the sizes of dust particles, producing information on the collision rates of such bodies in the outer Solar System. The latest, surprising results were compiled over three years as New Horizons traveled from 45 to 55 AU from the Sun. These readings come as New Horizons scientists, using observatories like the Japanese Subaru Telescope in Hawaii, have also discovered a number KBOs far beyond the traditional outer edge of the Kuiper Belt. This outer edge where the density of objects starts to decline was thought to be at about 50 AU, but new evidence suggests the belt may extend to 80 AU, or farther. As telescope observations continue, scientists are looking at other possible reasons for the high SDC dust readings, Doner said. One possibility, perhaps less likely, is radiation pressure and other factors pushing dust created in the inner Kuiper Belt out past 50 AU. New Horizons could also have encountered shorter-lived ice particles that cannot reach the inner parts of the Solar System and were not yet accounted for in the current models of the Kuiper Belt. These new scientific results from New Horizons may be the first time that any spacecraft has discovered a new population of bodies in our Solar System, said New Horizons principal investigator Dr. Alan Stern, a researcher at the Southwest Research Institute. I cant wait to see how much farther out these elevated Kuiper Belt dust levels go. Now into its second extended mission, New Horizons is expected to have sufficient propellant and power to operate through the 2040s, at distances beyond 100 AU from the Sun. That far out, the SDC could potentially even record the spacecrafts transition into a region where interstellar particles dominate the dust environment. With complementary telescopic observations of the Kuiper Belt from Earth, New Horizons, as the only spacecraft operating in and collecting new information about the Kuiper Belt, has a unique opportunity to learn more about KBOs, dust sources and expanse of the belt, and interstellar dust and the dust disks around other stars. Ongoing SDC measurements at even larger heliocentric distances will continue to constrain the contributions of dust production in the Kuiper Belt, the authors said. Continued SDC measurements remain crucial for understanding the Kuiper Belt and the interpretation of dust disks around other stars. Their paper appears in the Astrophysical Journal Letters. _____ Alex Doner et al. 2024. New Horizons Venetia Burney Student Dust Counter Observes Higher than Expected Fluxes Approaching 60 AU. ApJL 961, L38; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ad18b0 A cosmic serpent had been spotted in the Milky Way, and researchers had just confirmed it was moving. It reported snaked along our galaxy's spiral arm. Radcliffe Wave Is in Motion A few years ago, researchers found a massive, wave-shaped structure that snaked along a spiral arm of the Milky Way, spanning almost 9,000 light-years in length. The structure was only 500 light-years from the Solar System at its closest point. This squiggle of star-forming gas, known as the Radcliffe Wave, is a spectacular discovery in and of itself, and much remains unknown. However, astrophysicist Ralf Konietzka of Harvard University and his team of scientists have recently discovered one thing -- the Radcliffe Wave is in motion, just like many other Milky Way objects. Its movement is not merely a rotation around the galaxy's center. The Radcliffe Wave is a periodic traveling wave that oscillates. "By using the motion of baby stars born in the gaseous clouds along the Radcliffe Wave," Konietzka explained, "we can trace the motion of their natal gas to show that the Radcliffe Wave is actually waving." A later release of additional Gaia data has provided crucial information that was not available to understand the structure entirely. This allowed the scientists to determine the positions and speeds of star clusters buried in the star-forming material that forms the Radcliffe Wave. By extrapolating from this data, the scientists discovered that the structure is, in fact, curved, resembling a massive cosmic serpent snaking through the Milky Way. According to the team's calculations, this motion may be explained by the gravity generated by the galaxy's regular matter; dark matter mapping is unnecessary. Based on the team's measurements, a cluster of stars within the Radcliffe Wave may have given birth to the supernovae that virtually erased the Milky Way's surrounding space bubble. Thanks in significant part to the Gaia project, the knowledge of the three-dimensional features of the Milky Way has significantly advanced in recent years. ALSO READ: Japan to Launch Mug-Sized Wooden Satellite to Reduce Space Pollution What Is Gaia? Gaia is a European Space Agency mission to observe the sky with telescopes. By scanning around 1% of the 100 billion stars in the galaxy, it aims to provide the most comprehensive and accurate three-dimensional map of the Milky Way. The following are the objectives of the European Space Agency's astronomical observatory mission: Every star in its orbit around the galactic center will be detected by Gaia, and its motion will be measured with extreme precision. To record the brightness and position of each star over time in five years. Gaia was launched by a Russian Soyuz rocket. The Fregat upper stage sent Gaia into an Earth orbit measuring 109 109 miles (175 175 kilometers). Later, it fired again, resulting in a lengthy burn that took Gaia into an orbit of 214 598,200 miles (344 962, 690 kilometers) at a 15-degree inclination. On Jan. 8, 2014, Gaia's engine fired to propel the spacecraft into a 163,000 439,000-mile (263,000 707,000-kilometer) halo orbit with a period of 180 days, putting it in its operating orbit around the Sun-Earth L2 Lagrange point, approximately 932,000 miles (1.5 million kilometers) from Earth. After four months of telescope alignment, calibration, and focusing, Gaia's five-year mission began on July 25, 2014. RELATED ARTICLE: Will The Sun Explode 5 Billion Years From Now? Probably, Experts Say! Check out more news and information on Space in Science Times. A discussion on energy changes and challenges was conducted at the Paradise Center last Sunday. The three guest speakers gave presentations, and answered questions, to a packed house. Several topics on current energy sources and future plans were explained at the nonpartisan forum, which was sponsored by the Sanders County Democrats. Dr. Steve Running from the University of Montana has focused his career on creating ways to better understand the impacts of climate change and current energy needs and issues. His presentation was focused on carbon dioxide emissions and its effect on climate. Running started with a graph showing how carbon dioxide levels have risen by 46% since pre-industrial times. Starting in 1958 to 1965, there began to be a clearer understanding of what has been going on, Running said. In the late 1800s principal effects of change were noticed. Scientists recognized the start of molecule trapped radiation in the 1880s. Running demonstrated how the earth's total heat content has drastically risen from 1950 to 2000 with 90% going into the ocean. Running explained that this is equal to "billions of atomic bombs going off." Historical trends in Montana show annual precipitation variables. According to Running it is a graph of actual station records from airports, not from computers. Running said hard data gives a more accurate telling of what is actually happening in our region. These readings report that temperatures are warming up. A graph of calculus extremes indicated a shift in the distribution of temperatures. There is a much larger relative effect demonstrated by a bell shape. The shift previously was indicated by temperature increases as 1 in 40 variables. Recently that bell shape shows a 1 in 6 yearly event of increased temperatures. Running further explained that scientists are unable to look at historical events for the reasons of these extreme high temperatures. Montana trends show an average increase between 1950 and 2015. Precipitation averages have decreased. Running showed how the air mass travels around the globe and can take 14 days to reach our region. He used the example of Mount St. Helens. When it erupted the ash flow traveled to Montana and then came back again two weeks later. Ironically, Running said, the regions that are wetter will increase in temperatures and become wetter with an average temperature of 90%, whereas drier climates will become hotter, average 125% and have less moisture. This is because the wetter climates will create more moisture in the air and the dry regions will not have moisture to create more precipitation. Running concluded with the ecosystems' responses to changing land water balance. The disturbances in the balance will become more important, he said. How people use the water, i.e. recreation, agriculture, industry and energy, will affect the balance. Eighty nine percent comes from fossil fuel emissions, or CO2 being used. Eleven percent comes from forestation. Carbon dioxide affects forest and grasslands. Twenty six percent of this carbon dioxide dissolves in the oceans creating fizzy soda pop gasses that harm the growth of shellfish. Running said it is a high priority to quit burning coal and decrease the amount of carbon dioxide emissions. Oil is second and natural gas is third in emissions. Running ended with a photo of the Bitterroot Mountains taken March 4, 2007. The North slope had no snow. Brian Lipscomb, president and CEO of Energy Keepers, presented further information explaining the regional situation of climate change and energy use. His tribal, regional and national leadership experiences help agencies plan for the future of energy sustainability. Lipscomb has given guidance for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes' ownership and operation of the first tribal hydroelectric dam. Lipscomb will continue to aid in the future plans for solar and wind energy with the tribal council. Lipscomb explained that the last nine years have been the warmest on record. The 2022 global temperatures are steadily rising. He said the El Nino winters and La Nina cycles have indicated temperature changes. The warmer atmosphere in the arctic drives cold air down. In 2016, a polar vortex caused one of the coldest winters in the Mission Valley. While El Nino has hotter or colder, more extreme temperatures, La Nina causes wetter situations. The increase in climate changes cause changes to the demands for electricity. Lipscomb said that electrical heating and cooling needs may change. "It is easier to keep warm in the winter. Many use firewood at no cost. It's harder to keep cool in the summer. Price caps put pressure on energy companies. There is an obligation to help the world meet their energy needs," he said. His strategy is to move the power needs away from carbon dioxide-causing energy supplies. Lipscomb said the good news is that Montana, along with the northwest region, uses 60% of renewable resources. Mission Valley Power uses 99.99% renewable resources for electricity. "Hydroelectric drives the west," he said. Lipscomb concluded that we may, someday "use excess water to turn into hydrogen and store it for the future." The last speaker at the forum was congressional candidate Monica Tranel. She said her goal is to move forward with renewable energy options and address energy challenges. Tranel's opening statement was the fact that Butte, Montana, was first, in front of Paris and New York, to have electricity in the home. Montana has investor owned utilities as well as co-ops. Tranel pointed out the difference between the two. Northwestern Energy is owned by two companies, Carlyle Capital and Black Rock. An example of a member owned co-op is Northern Lights. One of the biggest challenges for upgrading to renewable energy sources is the transmission and distribution of grid lines, Tranel said. The energy opportunities in Montana are wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal and Biomes. Geothermals have low amounts of carbon and sulfur dioxide emissions, thus emit 97% less acid rain. Biomes produce the natural gas that has become an alternative to coal. Tranel said that the extraction of coal brings in money for schools. "How can we replace that money?" she asked. The challenge is to make other options more obtainable and replace the fossil fuel money with other renewable energy resources. NorthWestern Energy still gets paid when coal mining is shut down. The customers pay the cost to NorthWestern, Tranel concluded. The panel answered questions provided by the audience. One asked if wood burning was considered to be a renewable resource. Running answered that burning wood is a natural part of the carbon cycle and transition for forests in western Montana. Lipscomb believes that burning wood helps remove fuel for forest fires. Catalytic converters in wood stoves help with air quality. The Biomes energy is not wasted. Growing new trees help to capture CO2, Running added. Running addressed a question regarding the U.S. ranking globally on per capita of used resources. "The global carbon project states that overall, China has overtaken every other country in its emissions control," he said. " The U.S., per capita, has the highest emissions of CO2." Lipscomb answered a question about whether the area is headed to a more snow dominated or rain dominated environment. "The hydro system works with snowpack," he said. " Rain does not provide the lake with water. Runoff from the snowpack does." This affects the water levels of Flathead Lake. The water can be stored in the spring in hydro facilities and used for heat in the winter. With climate change the flood control would shift to winter if the majority of water comes from rain instead of snow. Demands would shift to summer instead of winter, including flood control, he noted. Tranel concluded the forum by stating, "We can find the answers to the problems. Scientists are working on solutions." Health spotlight This clinic sits in the center of unhoused San Franciscans needs Craig Lee/The Examiner Staffers congregate at the Maria X Martinez Health Resource Center at 555 Stevenson St. in San Francisco on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. Were really in the center where a lot of the need is, Dr. Joanna Eveland told The Examiner. Just a little more than a year after the Maria X Martinez Health Resource Center opened near San Francisco Civic Center, as many as 70 patients suffering from substance abuse, behavioral-health disorders and other issues pass through its doors each day. Were really in the center, where a lot of the need is, said Dr. Joanna Eveland, chief medical officer for the San Francisco Department of Public Healths division of Whole Person Integrated Care, who oversees the clinic. When you look at the maps of where the opioid-overdose deaths, for example, are occurring the eye of the hurricane is right around here. Located at 555 Stevenson St., Maria X Martinez also known as MXM is a hub for many of The Citys homeless outreach programs. It acts as a one-stop shop for unhoused San Franciscans needing a wide range of care, from podiatry to dental work. More than 75% of the centers patients are people experiencing homelessness, and around 20% of its visits would be classified as hospital emergencies if not seen at MXM, according to the Department of Public Health. The clinic is one of the few in San Francisco that doesnt require prospective patients to make appointments, which Eveland said can often be one of the first barriers to receiving care. We really think appointments are the enemy of people experiencing homelessness, she said. Craig Lee/The Examiner Visitors walk into the Maria X Martinez Health Resource Center at 555 Stevenson Street in San Francisco on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. Patients either come in on their own, or one of The Citys programs for unhoused people such as the Homeless Outreach Team brings them to MXM. Its an open clinic where anybody can try to get care, said Jose Torres, the program manager for the Homeless Outreach Team. But Torres and his colleagues often start treating patients where they are, bringing nurses to The Citys streets. People might have had negative experiences in the health-care system in the past, and might be scared, he said. Building a rapport where theyre comfortable helps gain trust, and after a while, theyll encourage patients to visit the clinic. You have to do that warm handoff, he said. Then they know where to come to get the care that they need. Craig Lee/The Examiner Since opening its doors in January 2023, the Maria X Martinez Health Resource Center has seen more than 18,000 visits. The facility opened its doors just off Market and 6th streets in January 2023, replacing a clinic at Department of Public Health headquarters near City Hall. The old location was cramped in comparison, Eveland said, only able to see about 20 people a day. She said the new spot has really been a game-changer, providing more connections to communities in need. More than 1,200 patients visited the clinic last month, around a 35% increase from January 2023. Since moving locations, the clinic had more than 18,000 visits in 2023, a nearly 40% increase from the year before at the old location. But the rising influx of cases hasnt diminished the level of care their patients receive. Joseph Peterson, 57, said he had been in and out of programs for years while struggling with addiction to heroin and other drugs while also suffering from diabetes. It wasnt until a couple of years ago when he had his feet amputated due to diabetes complications that he was connected to the clinic through the Street Medicine team, another program that offers care to unhoused people. I had no clue what I was going to do, but they helped me, he said. They helped me look for a place and everything ... I became un-homeless. Craig Lee/The Examiner Joseph Peterson, who received health care at the Maria X Martinez Health Resource Center and was pictured on Feb. 16, 2024, said I needed somebody to be there for me and he received that vital support from the center. Peterson said he initially refused help for his substance-use issues, which began when the Bay Area native lost his job a couple of decades ago. However, he did accept treatment for his diabetes and some mental-health issues he was struggling with. I was trying to get my health back together, he said. It was really off balance. He got sober while undergoing other treatment, he said, and he has since moved through MXM into permanent supportive housing in China Basin. The MXM staff has continued to support him as he transitions into this new phase of his life, which he said is what set this clinic apart from other programs and clinics he has been in over the years. They didnt leave me by myself, he said. For me to start all over again, I needed somebody to be there for me. Peterson said he has tried to encourage friends of his to give the clinic a try after his experience, with little luck so far. He guessed that everyone has a point at which they get tired of his old way of life just as he did. [MXM] really wanted to help me, he said. Im not going to let them down or myself. Eveland said she has seen how desperate unhoused San Franciscans have been to get substance-use treatment just in the last year alone. Its been really interesting that theres sort of this narrative like, Oh, people dont want treatment in San Francisco, she said. The second-leading thing people come here for is treatment. Eveland said that in order to get people into treatment and keep them there, its important to remove as many barriers as possible. The clinic aims to do just that, through drop-in appointments, warm handoffs and dealing with paperwork only after the immediate issues are taken care of. While not all services in The City follow this model yet, she said it seems likely the trend will grow. Everybodys kind of moving this way, recognizing we need some more flexibility, Eveland said. As for currently wheelchair-bound Peterson, he said he hopes to achieve his own level of flexibility in the next six months, when hell be finally healed enough for prostheses. I want to walk again, he said. I dont want to walk backward. I want to go forward. Maybe I can get a job or something, get things started again. Aldi is to create more than 5,000 jobs in the UK this year, the German discounter announced on Wednesday. The grocer, which currently has 1,000 UK stores, said it planned to continue growing "at speed", including creating 5,500 new roles in 2024. Those include in-store positions, such as cleaners, assistants and managers, as well as roles in its distribution centres and head office. Aldi has already announced plans to open 500 further stores in the country as part of a 1.4bn investment programme. Giles Hurley, chief executive of Aldi UK, said: "We continue to welcome more and more customers to Aldi stores very week, not just because of our unbeatable prices and British sourcing, but also our amazing colleagues." Along with fellow German discounter Lidl, Aldi is one of the UKs fastest-growing supermarkets and is expanding rapidly. Both have benefitted from the cost-of-living crisis, as hard-presser consumers seek out more affordable weekly shops. According to data from retail consultancy Kantar, Aldis market share jumped 7.2% year-on-year in the 12 weeks to 21 January, while Lidls improved 11.9%. However, their market shares - at 9.3% and 7.5% respectively - are dwarfed by much larger rivals like Tesco, which has a 27.6% market share, and J Sainsbury, with a 15.7% share. Aldi first opened in the UK in 1990. But it has expanded rapidly over the last decade, going from 300 to 1,000 stores as of last September. BAE Systems reported better-than-expected full-year profits and said sales would grow further this year as the rise in geopolitical tensions drove increases in military spending by governments. The British arms maker said it expected a 10 -12% rise in sales in 2024 compared with the 25.28bn reported last year. Almost half of its revenues come from the US. "Our performance, combined with our global footprint and record order intake, means we're well-positioned for sustained growth in the coming years," said chief executive Charles Woodburn. BAE also announced an 11% rise in its annual dividend to 30p a share. Operating profit on an underlying basis rose 9% to 2.68bn. Underlying earnings per share came in at 63.2 pence, up 14% and beating guidance of a 10-12% rise. We continue to focus on increased long-term demand from the US and international customers. The uplift in European and allied countries' defence spending is in addition to our strong order backlog on key franchise programmes, BAE said on Wednesday. In December, the company secured a 10-year contract worth up to $8.8bn to manage the US Armys main ammunition plant in Tennessee as efforts continue to increase production of artillery shells, missiles and other weapons. Our focus on operational excellence continues to benefit our customers and shareholders, especially as we execute on complex, long-duration programs like Dreadnought, Type 26 and Hunter Class frigates, Typhoon and F-35 jets, electronic warfare systems, combat vehicles, and many other programs, it added. Aarin Chiekrie, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said on an absolute basis, US military spending "trumps any other country in the world, so having a large exposure here is proving very beneficial and has helped the group bring in a record 37.7bn worth of orders in 2023". "But BAE Systems isnt stopping there. The UKs largest defence contractor sealed the deal on its 4.4bn acquisition of US-based Ball Aerospace last week, which should further increase its footprint on the other side of the pond." "Ball has unique positions in critical space and nuclear deterrence technologies, and the deal looks like a good strategic fit. The new business should enhance top-line growth and margins, contributing positively to the groups expectations for sales and profits to rise at double-digit rates this year." Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com Mining giant Rio Tinto said that commodity price movements led to a $1.5bn hit to underlying profits in 2023, though results were partly offset by a stronger US dollar and lower energy prices. Underlying EBITDA totalled $23.9bn for the 12 months to 31 December, down 9% on the year before, while consolidated sales revenue fell 3% to $54.0bn. Net cash generated from operating activities was 6% lower on the year at $15.2bn. Average prices for copper fell by 3% over the year, and dropped 17% for aluminium, along with further declines seen in diamonds and industrial minerals; gold prices however gained 8% and for iron ore prices rose 0.5%. On the plus side, Rio Tinto said it benefitted from weaker local currencies in 2023 which had a $0.6bn positive impact on underlying EBITDA, with the US dollar strengthening by 4% against the Australian dollar and by 4% against the Canadian dollar. Falling energy prices also resulted in a $0.4bn benefit to underlying EBITDA, mainly related to lower diesel prices at its Pilbara iron ore operations, lower energy prices at alumina refineries and aluminium smelters, and lower fuel prices in the Marine business. Chief executive Jakob Stausholm said the company delivered "resilient financial results", saying: "Our balance sheet strength enables us to continue to invest with discipline while also paying an ordinary dividend of $7.1 billion, a 60% payout." Nevertheless, while the final dividend was raised to 4.2 cents per share, up from 3.7 cents in 2022, the full-year payout came to just 7.1 cents a 12% cut from the year before. Rio Tinto said total cash returns to shareholders over the long term should be in the range of 40% to 60% of underlying earnings. "Acknowledging the cyclical nature of the industry, it is the board's intention to supplement the ordinary dividend with additional returns to shareholders in periods of strong earnings and cash generation," the company said. In a separate statement, Rio Tinto said it had signed Australia's biggest renewable power deal to supply its Gladstone operations in Queensland, agreeing to buy the majority of electricity from Windlab's planned 1.4GW Bungaban wind energy project. "The agreement, which follows the announcement last month of a PPA for the Upper Calliope solar farm in Queensland, will make Rio Tinto the biggest industrial buyer of renewable power in Australia and is another major step in the work to repower the company's Gladstone production assets - Boyne aluminium smelter, Yarwun alumina refinery and Queensland Alumina refinery." In a bid to strengthen India's position in the global semiconductor value chain, the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) has released a report outlining key recommendations. The report emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts between the United States and India to advance semiconductor cooperation. Among the recommendations is the creation of a pilot visa program to facilitate the exchange of skilled workers between the two countries. This initiative aims to support the semiconductor industry by ensuring a flow of talent and expertise. Additionally, the report suggests exploring partnerships under the CHIPS for America International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI) to further enhance collaboration. To boost India's semiconductor-ready workforce, the report advocates for cross-sector partnerships with higher-education institutions. It also calls for ongoing consultation with stakeholders in the semiconductor industry to address challenges and foster growth. The report, titled "Assessing Indias Readiness to Assume a Greater Role in Global Semiconductor Value Chains," was commissioned by the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) and the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) under the iCET. It evaluates India's current semiconductor ecosystem and policy frameworks, offering insights to guide strategic development. US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the iCET in May 2022 to enhance technological and defense cooperation between the two nations. The report identifies India's strong value proposition in the semiconductor industry and emphasizes the importance of favorable government policies. The semiconductor industry, characterized by intense global competition, presents a significant opportunity for India to attract investment. The report recommends policy reforms to reduce the cost of doing business for semiconductor companies in India. This includes tax breaks for chip companies, streamlined customs administration, and expedited clearance times for imported goods. John Neuffer, President and CEO of SIA, expressed confidence in India's potential, stating that with the right mix of government policies, the country's value proposition in the semiconductor industry can further strengthen. Ashok Chandak, President of IESA, highlighted India's expanding domestic market, developed design ecosystem, and supportive policies as key factors positioning the country for semiconductor manufacturing establishment. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, currently on a two-day state visit to India, was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Accompanied by his wife, Mareva Grabowski-Mitsotakis, he was warmly received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Expressing the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries, Mitsotakis looks forward to bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Modi, covering a range of topics including political consultations, strategic partnership, and economic collaboration. Mitsotakis emphasized the privilege of his official state visit, reciprocating Prime Minister Modi's visit to Greece a few months ago. He expressed eagerness for discussions that would foster economic ties between the two nations. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also met with the Greek Prime Minister, valuing Mitsotakis' commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. The visit holds special significance as Mitsotakis is the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker at the three-day Raisina Dialogue 2024, which commenced today. The Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in New Delhi for the Raisina Dialogue, discussed strengthening India-Greece and India-Europe cooperation with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. A consortium led by Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries Ltd. and top Indian engineering schools is gearing up to launch its ChatGPT-style service next month, marking a significant stride in India's pursuit of a prominent role in the field of artificial intelligence. The BharatGPT group, comprised of Reliance Industries and eight affiliated universities, unveiled a preview of the large language model, named 'Hanooman,' during a technology conference in Mumbai. The model, developed in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology universities, is designed to operate in 11 local languages across healthcare, governance, financial services, and education. If successful, Hanooman could signify a breakthrough for India in the competitive race to develop transformative AI technology . The model's demonstration showcased diverse applications, from a mechanic in Tamil to a banker conversing in Hindi and a developer writing code in Hyderabad. The unique collaboration involves prominent players like wireless carrier Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. and the Indian government. Hanooman sets itself apart by offering speech-to-text capabilities, enhancing user-friendliness for the millions in India who cannot read or write. Reliance Jio plans to create customized AI models for specific use cases, with ongoing efforts on Jio Brain, an AI platform for its extensive network of approximately 450 million subscribers. While Silicon Valley companies like OpenAI focus on larger Language Model Models (LLMs), BharatGPT's approach addresses India's needs with tailored solutions. Startups like Sarvam and Krutrim, with backing from venture capital investors including Lightspeed Venture Partners and Vinod Khosla's fund, are also contributing to open-sourced AI models customized for the Indian market. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, chair of IIT Bombays Department of Computer Science and engineering, highlighted the unique nature of Hanooman and BharatGPT's effort, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the first-of-its-kind private-public partnership in the country. Drawing an analogy to the Indian joint family structure, he noted the interdependence and collective success achieved through collaboration. In a recent release by the commerce ministry, it has been revealed that Russia maintained its position as the primary source of oil imports for India in December, accounting for nearly one-third of the country's crude intake. The data showed a substantial 25% year-on-year increase in the value of crude oil imports from Russia, amounting to $3.92 billion, with a sequential rise of 9%. In December, Iraq secured the second-largest supplier position, despite experiencing a 4% decrease in supplies valued at $2.42 billion compared to the previous year. Conversely, imports from Saudi Arabia and the UAE witnessed reductions of 24.84% and 3.01%, totaling $1.91 billion and $973.85 million, respectively. The United States, ranked fifth, faced a notable 79.87% decline in oil exports to India, with a value of $413.61 million. The month of December witnessed a 24% year-on-year decrease in India's total oil import bill, reaching $11.57 billion, reflecting the downward trend in global crude prices. The Indian crude basket averaged $77.42 per barrel in December, marking a decrease from April's $83.76 per barrel at the start of FY23. As of February 19, 2024, the average price stood at $83.32 per barrel. For the April-December FY24 period, India's overall crude import bill recorded a 17% year-over-year decline, amounting to $122.48 billion. However, imports from Russia surged by an impressive 68.19% to $34.44 billion during the same period. Data from Vortexa in December highlighted that India imported 1.52 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude, solidifying Russia's status as India's principal oil supplier. Wipro Limited, a leading technology services and consulting firm, has revealed an enhanced partnership with Intel Foundry aimed at expediting chip design innovation. Serving as the primary Design Services and Alliance Partner, Wipro will collaborate closely with Intel Foundry to hasten the progress of Intel's cutting-edge process nodes, such as the Intel18A process node. According to a press release, the worldwide AI chip market is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38 percent from 2023 to 2032. The collaboration between Wipro and Intel Foundry aims to meet the increasing demand for AI chip production as businesses compete to introduce generative AI-powered products. Atul Kapur, Vice President & Business Head HiTech at Wipro Limited, expressed that the newfound partnership with Intel Foundry signifies a noteworthy advancement in Wipro's integration into the semiconductor industry. "This creates opportunities for Wipro and supports chip supply and chip manufacturing. Together with Intel, we will deliver silicon devices to our clients with proven industry-standard flows and process technologies from Intel Foundry. We will be targeting new startup markets, especially in the Gen AI space, helping our clients further shorten the time to market", he said. The finance ministry of India broadcasted that the Japanese government has provided a loan of about 12,800 crore, for Nine key Indian projects across various sectors in India. These crucial projects include a diverse range of initiatives intended at nurturing progress and addressing the major challenges across various regions of India. Among the key projects, notable projects are North East Road Network Connectivity project, the Project for Promoting Start-up and Innovation in Telangana, and the Project for the Construction of Chennai Peripheral Ring Road. In addition, proposals for promoting sustainable horticulture in Haryana and enhancing climate change response and ecosystem services in Rajasthan are also comes under this partnership. In accordance with the statement of Finance ministry, the connectivity projects for road network are spurred towards enhancing infrastructure in north-eastern region of India, even as the Chennai peripheral ring road project aimed to lessen the robust traffic congestion & bolster the connectivity in the Tamil Nadus southern part. The agreement to confirm this collaborative network was officially signed between Vikas Sheel, Additional secretary, Department of Economic Affairs and Suzuki Hiroshi, the ambassador of Japan to India. Foreseeing these initiatives, each & every project highlights various impacts to the country. For occurrence, the project in Nagaland is projected to strengthen medical services & offerings by launching a tertiary level medical college hospital, in that way adding a force to universal health coverage. In the meantime, the unique initiative in Telangana will focus on fostering entrepreneurial skills, especially women entrepreneurship and fortify the extended support to MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises). STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The New York City subway system has been a focal point of crime for a number of years now. While figures have fluctuated, and law enforcement presence bolstered, crime continues to impact commuters and guests alike. At this time, subway crime is up 22.6% since the onset of 2024, according to NYPD data. Since the start of 2024, there have been 266 transit crimes reported, compared to 217 in the same time period in 2023, as reported by the NYPD. The NYPD CompStat system recorded no transit crimes on Staten Island through Feb. 11 in both 2024 and 2023. Property crime continues to make up the majority of the crime in the subway system, with pickpockets and skilled thieves preying on people distracted by their commute and the bustle of the underground. While your cops are out there, deterring and responding to acts of pic.twitter.com/qjZsQ5Gqw3 NYPD Chief of Transit (@NYPDTransit) February 20, 2024 In analyzing data from the past number of years, CBS New York Investigates found that since 2022, New Yorkers are reporting almost three times as many felony assaults on the subway than they were 10 years ago, and about 46% more assaults than in 2019, according to CBS News. CRIME IN THE SUBWAYS Crime has plagued the New York City subway system for years, particularly since the pandemic. In January of 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams touted figures indicating a decrease in subway crime. Numbers seemingly credible to the implementation of additional officers and efforts to connect homeless individuals residing in the system with necessary resources. While the Cops, Cameras, and Care initiative ushered a reduction in transit crime, as previously reported, 2024 subway crime figures look unpromising for straphangers. Just last week, a shooting left a Bronx subway station in disarray, as one man was killed and five others injured. Still, despite this elevated level, citywide figures for the seven major crimes are down 2.5% when compared to the same time last year and down 19.5% on Staten Island, as reported by the NYPD. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Filing your taxes can be a complicated, time-consuming endeavor, prompting millions of Americans to rely on the services of professional tax experts each year. While allowing others to prepare your annual tax return can save you time, it can also result in major complications if you choose an untrustworthy party. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has urged residents to exercise caution when entrusting their personal and financial information to an outside tax preparer, as some may be looking to make a quick buck off unknowing customers. Most tax return preparers provide honest, high-quality service. But some may cause harm through fraud, identity theft and other scams, according to the IRS. They may be looking to make a quick profit by promising a big refund or charging fees based on the size of the refund. When choosing a professional, residents should always ask for their Preparer Tax Identification Number, which all tax preparers are required to have and include on any tax return they prepare. Additionally, tax professionals are required to sign all returns theyve prepared, so if your return doesnt include the preparers signature and Preparer Tax Identification Number, it should be viewed as a major red flag. These unscrupulous ghost preparers often print the return and have the taxpayer sign and mail it to the IRS. For electronically filed returns, a ghost preparer will prepare the tax return but refuse to digitally sign it as the paid preparer. Taxpayers should avoid this type of unethical preparer, the IRS warned. Residents should review the preparers history, checking the Better Business Bureau website for the license status of the preparer and any past disciplinary actions. Taxpayers are also advised to ask about service fees, ignoring any preparers who base their fees on a percentage of the refund or offer to deposit parts of the refund into their own financial accounts as payment. The IRS warns residents to never sign a blank or incomplete tax return, as ultimately the taxpayer, not the preparer, is responsible for ensuring a complete and correct return. For help finding a legitimate tax preparer, residents can visit the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers. TRACKING YOUR REFUND If youre one of the millions of Americans who have already sent in their tax returns, there are online portals that will allow you to monitor the status of your refund. For federal taxes, residents can use the IRS Wheres My Refund tool or the IRS2Go mobile app to see when their refunds have been received, processed and sent. Refund status will appear roughly 24 hours after you e-file a current-year return, three or four days after you e-file a prior-year return or four weeks after you file a paper return. To access the information, which is updated overnight each day, residents must provide their Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN), filing status and exact refund amount on their return. Once refunds are sent, those using direct deposit should receive their refund within five days, while those expecting checks in the mail may have to wait several weeks. For state taxes, New Yorkers can visit the Department of Taxation and Finance website and click Check refund status. This allows residents to see if their return has been received; when its being processed; if the return requires additional review; if the state requires additional information; if a requested refund amount has been adjusted and when a refund has been issued. NEW TAX INCOME BRACKETS While tax rates have remained the same as last year, the IRS has announced new brackets with adjusted thresholds, boasting upper limits that are 7% higher than last year. In addition to the new tax brackets, the standard deduction, the amount you can deduct to adjust the amount of income on which youre taxed, has also increased from $12,950 to $13,850 for single filers and from $25,900 to $27,700 for married couples filing jointly. Heres a look at the new tax brackets that will be used when filing in 2024. MARGINAL TAX BRACKETS FOR SINGLE FILERS $11,000 or less in taxable income 10% of taxable income $11,001 to $44,725 in taxable income $1,100 plus 12% over $11,000 $44,726 to $95,375 in taxable income $5,147 plus 22% over $44,725 $95,376 to $182,100 in taxable income $16,290 plus 24% over $95,375 $182,101 to $231,250 in taxable income $37,104 plus 32% over $182,100 $231,251 to $578,125 in taxable income $52,832 plus 35% over $231,250 $578,126 or more in taxable income - $174,238 plus 37% over $578,125 MARGINAL TAX BRACKETS FOR MARRIED COUPLES FILING JOINTLY STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island hosted the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event which had a mission to celebrate female empowerment and raise funds for the Lucille & Jay Chazanoff Sunrise Day Camp in Manor Heights. The womens event was held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6:30 p.m. and went above anticipations in celebrating female empowerment. The event honored three outstanding women for their leadership and support for Sunrise Day Camp: Kim Avilez, Michelle DeSantis, and Filicia Guitian. The event also featured a dinner with raffles, dancing, and opportunities for attendees to create their own jewelry, floral bouquets, and more. Keynote speaker Virginia Allen, a member of the history nurse group known as the "Black Angels", speaking at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography)Mary Hart Photography Keynote speaker Virginia Allen, the last surviving member of the Black Angels - which is a group of Black nurses who treated tuberculosis patients at Sea View Hospital in the 1940s and 50s, shared her inspiring life story. Broadway actress Analise Scarpaci performed several songs during the event. Orit Lender, CEO of the JCC, expressed her anticipation for the event, reflecting on the incredible time at the inaugural event the previous year. I am looking forward to honoring these three special women, who have done so much for the JCC and Sunrise, as well as hearing Virginia Allens inspiring life story and Analise Scarpacis beautiful voice, she said, We are so grateful for the strong women who make our community better, and we look forward to celebrating them at this special event. Kim Avilez, Jay Chazanoff, Orit Lender, Filicia Guitian, and Michelle DeSantis at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography)Mary Hart Photography All of the funds raised during the event benefitted the JCCs Sunrise Day Camp Staten Island, a free summer camp bringing back the joys of childhood to children with cancer and their siblings. THE 2024 HONOREES AND SPECIAL GUESTS Kim Avilez is a prominent business owner and community impact leader with a diverse background. As the owner of Glow Event Management, she has successfully executed various events, including weddings and galas for the past eight years. With two decades of experience in Banking and Finance, Kim recently returned to the industry as the Vice President and Community Manager for Staten Island JPMorgan Chase Bank. In her role, she collaborates with local leaders to break down economic barriers, supporting both customers and the community. Kim actively engages with Staten Island residents, community leaders, real estate professionals, small businesses, and non-profit organizations, hosting financial health workshops and bringing global resources to make a local impact. Her passion for small business and economic development is evident through her involvement in various organizations including the Phenomenal Women Association Inc., where she serves as a founding board member and co-producer of the Phenomenal Women Award. Kim also holds leadership roles in the NYC Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and the Staten Island Community Alliance. Kim Avilez, business owner of Glow Event Management and community impact leader, and her husband Tony Avilez at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography) Mary Hart Photography Michelle DeSantis, a dedicated resident of Staten Island, has a rich history of community service. With a background in Marketing and Public Relations, she began her career at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and later worked for the Rouse Company, a major mall developer. Michelles commitment to volunteering led her to contribute to various boards, including Historic Richmond Town, where she worked on preserving the Perine House. Michelle DeSantis Jay Chazanoff at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography) Mary Hart Photography She is actively involved in organizations such as the Staten Island Ballet and the Notre Dame Alumnae Committee. Michelle takes immense pride in her role at the DeSantis Family Charitable Foundation, where she reviews requests to sponsor goods or services for children with special needs on Staten Island. Her involvement extends to the Grace Foundation, focusing on fundraising and strategic planning for families with special needs, particularly those with Autism. Filicia Giutan, born and raised in Brooklyn, has been an active member of her community since childhood. After teaching and becoming a stay-at-home mother, Filicia returned to the workforce part-time as a Special Education Itinerant Teacher. Passionate about advocating for her community, she also serves as a Constituent Representative for the New York State Assembly. Filicia Guitian Assemblyman Mike Reilly at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography) Mary Hart Photography Filicia is deeply involved with the Verrazano Kiwanis Club, where she serves on the board of directors as treasurer. Her extensive volunteerism includes fundraising for various local non-profits, such as Sunrise Day Camp, Staten Island University Hospital Pediatric Cancer Wing, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Recognized for her efforts, Filicia has received awards from Verrazano Kiwanis and USIVO. Virginia Allens remarkable journey began as a member of the history group known as the Black Angels, a group of nurses who cared for tuberculosis patients at Sea View Hospital. Virginias commitment to healthcare and community service continued throughout her life, working in labor relations and advocating for union members. Analise Scarpaci sings at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography)Mary Hart Photography She joined the Schomburg Center as a volunteer in 2010 and has been active in various organizations, including the Staten Island section of the National Council of Negro Women. Virginia has received numerous accolades for her service, including the Lambda Kappa Mu Sorority Inc.s Distinguished Service Key and the Staten Island Advance Woman of Achievement Award. Analise Scarpaci is a talented performer based in Staten Island and known for her roles on Broadway, including Lydia Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire and Liesl von Trapp in The Sound of Music at Paper Mill Playhouse. Starting her professional journey at the age of twelve, Analise has achieved success with roles in A Christmas Story, The Musical, and Matilda, The Musical. Holding a BFA in Musical Theater, she continues to contribute to the vibrant theater scene. In acknowledgment of the profound financial challenges that families face when dealing with a childs chronic illness, the Lucille & Jay Chazanoff Sunrise Day Camp stands as a beacon of hope and support. Kim Avis, Orit Lender, and Sue Sappin at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography) Mary Hart Photography Committed to making a significant difference, the camp extends its services completely free of charge. By eliminating financial barriers, Sunrise Day Camp ensures that every child can experience the joys of childhood and create lasting memories. The success of the Women Front & Center event contributes to sustaining the invaluable initiative, to foster a community that truly understands the importance of coming together to make a positive impact. Krissy Murnieks speaks about Sunrise Day Camp at the 2nd Annual Women Front & Center event held at Li Grecis Staaten on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024. (Courtesy of Mary Hart Photography)Mary Hart Photography STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up a series of challenges to rent-stabilization laws in New York Tuesday, and two of the states top elected officials applauded that decision. Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams issued separate statements praising the court for its decision not to hear challenges from landlord groups against New YorksRent Stabilization Law and the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019. Our rent stabilization laws, which were first passed nearly six decades ago and reaffirmed consistently by lower courts since, remain some of our states most powerful tools to fight inequality, preserve affordability, and keep New Yorkers safely housed in their own communities, Hochul said. As governor, I will continue doing everything in my power to ensure these laws are protected. Almost half of the apartments in the five boroughs are rent stabilized providing tenants protection from exorbitant rent increases, according to the mayors office. Each year, the citys Rent Guidelines Board decides a percentage for which rent can be increased on rent stabilized units, and Adams said the Supreme Courts decision not to hear the cases will help protect tenant protections. For 50 years, rent stabilization has kept rents affordable for millions of New Yorkers and their families. Today, tenants can breathe a sigh of relief, the mayor said. As this administration tackles the citys affordability crisis from all angles, we remain committed to defending New Yorks rent stabilization laws so tenants can afford to stay in their homes and communities. The latest Supreme Court decision followed a series of victories for the laws as courts have upheld their legitimacy as they fall under the governments ability to regulate land use. However, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas issued a statement with the courts decision leaving the door open to future possible challenges. The constitutionality of regimes like New York Citys is an important and pressing question, Thomas wrote. [In] an appropriate future case, we should grant certiorari to address this important question. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Registration is now open for the 2024 Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb New York City. The June 2 event presents the public its only opportunity to climb 104 stories or 2,226 steps from the basement of One World Trade Center to the finish line on the 102nd floor. Finishers are rewarded with an awe-inspiring sunrise panoramic view of lower Manhattan from the top of the building that stands as a testament to the American peoples strength, hope, and indomitable spirit,' stated race organizers. Participants must reasonably expect to complete the climb, according to race organizers. Elite climbers may finish the 104-story climb in less than 15 minutes, while the average participant should take about 25 to 50 minutes to finish. Spots are limited to 1,000 climbers, and last years event sold out at a record pace, according to organizers. The entry fee for the event is $100. Registration will close at midnight on Thursday, May 30, or when capacity is reached. For additional details on timing, waves and fundraising requirements, visit the Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb NYC FAQ page. To register, visit the registration page at https://nyctowerclimb.t2t.org/. The Tunnel to Towers Tower Climb New York City supports the Captain Billy Burke Jr. Foundation and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The Captain Billy Burke Foundation provides tuition assistance at Burkes alma mater, SUNY Potsdam, for children of NYC firefighters. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a Staten Island-based non-profit organization, provides mortgage payoffs or mortgage-free homes to Americas catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, Gold Star families, and families of fallen first responders. Without a doubt, you remember the day your child was born like it was yesterdaythe excitement, the anxiety, the joy. You probably fantasized about the future your child will have as you held them in your arms, rocking them to sleep. Enter the 529 account: A tax-advantageous account that you can dedicate money to each year, in your childs name, in preparation for your childs future education. Lets fast forward. You have contributed money each year to your childs 529 account, and have developed a nice sum of money. Before you know it, its college decision time and that money is finally ready to stretch its legs paying for tuition, and qualified expenses, like books, electronics, and so on. But hold onmaybe your child got a great scholarship, or decided that a 529-qualified apprenticeship would be more their speed. All of a sudden, you dont need every penny you saved in your childs 529 account. What do you do then? Starting this year, you can roll spare 529 funds in your childs name into a Roth IRA for their future retirement thanks to the SECURE Act 2.0. SECUR [ Setting Every Community Up for Retirement] according to the my529.org website. After all, if their schooling is covered, why not set up your child for their retirement? Naturally, there are a few stipulations to keep in mind before you start rolling over money to a Roth IRA. The my529.org website recommends you consider the following: The account must be active (and in the beneficiarys name, per CNN ) for 15 years at the minimum. The amount put into the Roth IRA cannot go over the maximum yearly contribution, which is $7,000 per year as of 2024 for those under the age of 50, according to Fidelity. The maximum amount of money that you can roll into a Roth IRA from a 529 account is $35,000. If you contributed money to the 529 account in the last five years, you cannot contribute that sum, or any of the interest built on it, to the Roth IRA. Even if you dont meet the criteria, you can still take money from the 529 account. Keep in mind, however, that there are consequences for withdrawals that arent meant for schooling. The nysaves.org website says that, Earnings on nonqualified withdrawals are treated as income and subject to federal and state income taxes, including, in most cases, an additional 10% federal penalty. 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 Antoinette Lattouf, sacked by the ABC last year for sharing content from a human rights organisation on social media after a successful campaign by pro-Israel lobbyists, is back on the national broadcaster despite being in the midst of a Fair Work Action against Aunty, alleging unlawful termination and racial discrimination. Loading Lattouf has scored a small role in the ABCs latest drama series House of Gods, which premieres this weekend. According to the blurb, it follows the lives of an ambitious Iraqi Australian family grappling with newfound power and privilege when their charismatic patriarch is elected head cleric of their local mosque. But its the particular role Lattouf is playing which caught CBDs eye a radio presenter who unearths something controversial. Sounds familiar. Art imitates life? Or the other way around? I had to dig deep for my acting debut in ABC TV drama House of Gods, Lattouf wrote on Instagram. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has slammed an advertisement in a Melbourne newspaper about the governments release of criminals from immigration detention as misinformation. Conservative lobby group Advance Australia placed an advertisement in the Herald Sun newspaper on Thursday that claimed Albanese had unlocked the doors of immigration detention and let loose 149 criminals, including rapists, paedophiles and murderers. There are 40 in Victoria, the ad said. Tell us, Prime Minister, How many are in Dunkley? We demand you tell us before March 2. The Advance Australia advertisement that appeared in the Herald Sun on Thursday. Speaking to radio presenter Jacqui Felgate on Melbourne radio station 3AW, the prime minister condemned the campaign as a scare tactic. [They are] seeking to scare people and delving into fear, he said. And I note that this campaign, that allegedly isnt from the Liberal Party this group [Advance Australia] is certainly very partisan. They spread a whole lot of misinformation and theres misinformation as part of that ad. And its unfortunate because I dont want to see Australia go down the American road where theres so much polarisation. We should always try to be respectful, try to talk through the facts, rather than just have a fear campaign. This is really the sort of tactics which have dominated American politics in recent times. Politicians should leave teaching to teachers Credit: iStock The decline of all measured standards of our students can be fixed by improving the quality and number of our teachers. In 2022, Labor committed to addressing the shortage of teachers by reducing the ATAR requirements for entry into university programs. However, this strategy, coupled with financial incentives, may boost the number of teachers but does not necessarily guarantee an improvement in quality. To attract high-calibre individuals to the profession, a more effective approach would be to elevate teachers salaries. Rather than relying on short-term incentives, a sustainable solution involves demonstrating that teaching can offer comparable long-term financial rewards to other professional careers. One viable method is to link compensation to performance, measured through outcomes in both NAPLAN and ATAR. Establishing a fund that rewards teachers based not only on overall results but also on the year-over-year improvement in test scores could foster a sense of teamwork and inclusivity. This approach would benefit staff in economically-disadvantaged communities. With approximately 250,000 teachers in public primary and secondary schools, a 15 per cent bonus pool distributed proportionally among their salaries would amount to around $4 billion annually, a reasonable cost to enhance the overall quality of our nations education. John Kempler, Rose Bay Wayne Duncombe must live in a different universe from me. When I started teaching at 18, no one came near me for three years until the Inspector turned up to review me for my certificate, in a brief hour of set lessons. I think you would have had to have the kids climbing the walls not to pass. Assistant principal jobs in primary schools came from interviews where the applicants principal would give a glowing report if they wanted to get rid of them or a poor report if they wanted to keep them. Principals would get reviewed yearly by the inspector, who never asked to meet even the executive of the school to get their opinion of the principals performance. Every interview seemed to go well. Hopefully all this has changed. Rosslyn Jeffery, Castle Hill Propping up property industry The usual selfish calls from the lobbyists in the property industry illustrates all that is wrong with housing in Australia; the exploitation of housing as a money-making scam devoid of social planning (Pledge to build 1.2 million homes needs a major renovation: Property Council, February 21). They want massive handouts to developers for kneejerk projects with a nod to affordability. They want imported workers to build housing, rather than training our kids by improving apprenticeship systems. The Perth project is an example of the incredible waste when using public money to pay developers to build so-called affordable housing; $89 million for 216 apartments, half of which would be social or affordable. We need planned, government built and owned affordable housing, not a scam to prop up a rapacious property industry with taxpayers money. Barry Laing, Castle Cove Its pleasing to read that the NSW government isnt rushing the sale of land needed for essential public infrastructure such as open space, hospitals and schools (Land audit yet to reveal new sites, February 21). Those of us with long memories well remember the then NSW government push in the 1990s to sell off inner west public schools; those schools are now full to overflowing. All this points to the need for good long-term planning, including for essential public infrastructure, among which should be included public housing, which is the real absent level of housing in our city. As for vacant land or sites with unused potential, a dozen buildings in my suburb have been empty for years and the whole of the Marrickville Road shopping strip has been re-zoned for up to eight stories since 2011 with only one housing development completed in that time. I can only presume developers are either banking on a further lift in height allowances from the NSW government, or they dont believe their rate of profit is sufficient. Colin Hesse, Marrickville Big gap So, after all these years, Mind the Gap doesnt work (Mind the gap: fillers fitted for safety of rail commuters, February 21). Tim Schroder, Gordon Speak loud Advocates of reform, Julian Assange and Alexei Navalny, have both felt the heartless cruelty of the governments they sought to expose and change (Assange unlikely to take plea deal, February 21). Vladimir Putin, along with his government, murders those who oppose them. Australias Assange is our nations Navalny, yet we hear only muted, softly worded, diplomatic mumblings from the Albanese government and the Australian media. When will the Australian government speak loud and forceful truth to power and demand Assanges release from the Americans? Michael Davis, Balmain East On ABC news this morning, in reference to Julian Assange, Richard Marles said that Julian has been in detention a long time and you cant keep people in detention indefinitely - that is, unless you come to Australia on a boat. Ross Hudson, Mount Martha (Vic) Lets share the rage with Yulia Navalnaya. Jane Armitage, Mosman Yulia Navalnaya Credit: Reuters Pool Job inopportunities The Suncorp chairs statement that our people will have a broader range of banking career opportunities under ANZ is highly questionable given ANZs track record of 253 branch closures in the years 2018-21 alone (ANZ clears key hurdle for Suncorp takeover bid, February 21). The treasurer should carefully consider whether any further concentration in banking is desirable. Dierk Mohr, Turramurra Light touch The business model for casinos of the magnitude of those in Sydney and Melbourne depend upon a very light touch from regulators (Star shares crash after shock call for new inquiry, February 21). That light touch has allowed casinos in Sydney and Melbourne to become giant edifices producing substantial profits for shareholders but with substantial operating costs that leave little room for profit without the benefit of money laundering and the patronage of problem gamblers. A regulatory and enforcement environment no longer conducive to the long-standing business model will need to be resisted and circumvented by executives whose remuneration is incentive-based. Good luck to anybody trying to change this culture. Ross Hannah, Bowral Car pollution Your correspondent (Letters, February 21) said following the analysis of air quality in underground train stations that we dont need more commuters to travel by car. And yet vehicle tailpipe pollution is a long known and much bigger killer. The Herald reported last year that it causes up to 11,000 premature deaths every single year in Australia. Nearly ten times the annual road toll! Despite the magnitude and pervasiveness of that health risk, people mostly shrug their shoulders and meekly accept it. Wheres the outrage? Brendan Jones, Annandale Self-checkout Looks like Woolies has added another self-checkout (Woolies boss Brad Banduccis retirement wasnt expedited, says chair, smh.com.au, February 21). Laurie Fraser, Blaxlands Ridge Not so long ago it was Alan Joyce, the CEO of Qantas who stepped down; now it is Brad Banducci, the CEO of Woolies. The important question is: will the corporate culture now actually change? Are prices now actually going to come down? Lets see how Coles reacts. Or doesnt. Shaun Davies, St Peters Great films Trying to name the greatest rock movie is as impossible as naming the most laudable album ever recorded. A lot of it has to do with hype; as a fan of every artist that appears on The Last Waltz Im afraid to say there are other movies that are better and more exciting to see such as Summer of Soul about a music festival held in Harlem during 1969 at the same time of Woodstock. It attracted hundreds of thousands as well but went largely unreported due to probably being attended by mostly African Americans. Although it was filmed to be released later, no one seemed interested and stored away to be rediscovered 50 years later. Nina Simone and Sly and the Family Stone are some of the sensational artists featured. Con Vaitsas, Ashbury Joni Mitchell and Neil Young performing with The Band. Rolling stone How appropriate that your excellent article (The greatest rock movie ever?, February 21) should be written by Bill Wyman. No not that one, the other one. Clare Raffan, Campsie Just the tonic I am working in Paediatric Emergency 2pm until midnight (Letters, February 21). A gin and tonic at 7pm would be lovely for me but not so great for my patients, whom I am paid to look after. Why do the same standards not apply to politicians? Jo Rainbow, Orange Taylors example Your correspondent asks how TayTays wearing skimpy costumes empowers women and girls (Letters, February 21). Its not the costumes. It is the music, the philanthropy, the positive lifestyle choices. Nick Andrews, Bellevue Hill Police report on the Taylor Swift concerts in Melbourne with around 300,000 fans: no drunken fights, no trashing anything, not a single arrest. Majority of TayTay fans? - young women. Maggie Ramsay, Woolloomooloo Queensland Rail received more than 800 complaints last year about etiquette on trains, including one passenger dropping a banana peel on a seat, and others playing music, vaping or painting their nails. More than 200 complaints by commuters related to alcohol, drugs or smoking, while 191 complained about noise in the quiet carriage, QR said. Queensland Rail received 865 complaints last year, many of them reaching out on social media. Feet and bags on seats was the third-highest complaint, with 68 reporting they, or others, were unable to get a seat on their journey. This was followed by more than 40 complaints about people playing music or using their devices loudly. Queensland Rail spokeswoman Tessa Hardy said dozens of commuters had messaged to complain on social media. Examples of the feedback included: Good morning QR, disappointing that at 5am no seats are available. All the bags are well seated! and There are four people vaping like no tomorrow in here and its very strong. Hardy urged train travellers to be mindful of fellow customers while commuting and at stations. One of the more obscure complaints was a customer witnessing young people throwing cookie dough at one another on the train, and in the past, weve even seen reports of someone painting their nails, she said. Read full story 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 What does it feel like to live in Brisbane in 2024? Weve taken a snapshot of the citys performance to assess its quality of life and liveability. See all 13 stories . For most, the quality or otherwise of their life can come down to one word access. Access to health facilities, access to education, access to shops. And access to those third places such as bars, libraries, restaurants, pubs and other places people can socialise away from home and work. The Australian Urban Observatory, based out of the RMIT Centre of Urban Research in Melbourne, has run the rule over Brisbanes social infrastructure in a new analysis. And the results were not surprising. When it comes to access to social infrastructure think schools, health facilities, cafes, pubs etc the data shows its very much a case of demand dictating supply. Schools are considered an important piece of social infrastructure. Credit: Dan Peled Social infrastructure provides access to essential community services and resources. Access to a wide range of different types of social infrastructure is therefore important for the creation and ongoing development of healthy communities, the AUO notes in its 2021 Liveability Report for Brisbane, which will be released this week. Advertisement High levels of access to social infrastructure is linked to increased physical activity and wellbeing, and increases satisfaction with the local community improving social interactions and mental health outcomes. Social infrastructure is therefore a key component of liveability. The higher the density, AUOs data shows, the more social infrastructure is readily available. Overall, Brisbane ranked equal last among the five biggest Australian capital cities, alongside Perth. Queensland University of Technology urban planning lecturer Tracy Washington said the AUO research demonstrated the inequality between the inner-city and greater Brisbanes outer suburban and semirural communities. Advertisement These [blue] areas have density, so theyre going to have better public transport access, theyre going to have better walkability, they probably have all the services they need within a 10-minute window, and potentially their work as well, she said. In these other communities that were looking at that [darker red], theyre very, very much tied to their vehicles and theyre far less likely to use public transport. Once we start to get into these outer rings around Brisbane, it becomes much more challenging. Its those outer rings over which Suburban Futures co-founder Ross Elliott spent his days obsessing. You really want social infrastructure, schools, hospitals, universities, dispersed across the city so that theyre going to be more accessible locally to people rather than having to drive all the way across town, he said. Elliott, the chairman of the Lord Mayors Better Suburbs Initiative, said more attention needed to be paid to Brisbanes outer suburbs, so they could be places where residents could work, rest and play. Advertisement You might even actually start with the social infrastructure, and then you plan your housing around it, rather than the other way around, he said. Were going to have another 2 million people its scary, if you think about it, 2 million people. You go back to in Brisbane in the 1990s, we had a population of 2 million full stop. And then you think of everything that went with that population. Well, we had the PA, we had Prince Charles, we had the Royal Brisbane, we had the Wesley, we had all the hospitals. We havent added many I can think of, and its ditto for schools, ditto for roads, ditto for pretty much everything. Advertisement You cant just add the people without all the things that the people need. There are consequences to growth. Youve got to add that stuff. Thats why Elliott championed suburban renewal, such as Suburban Futures vision for Chermside released late last year. Weve got to start reinvesting in the suburbs; it doesnt need to be as high a standard [as the inner-city] perhaps, but it needs to be a reasonable standard with access to similar facilities in suburban areas. Like in Chermside, for example Ive always thought Chermside is a great opportunity for a regional business centre, where youd have a lot more social infrastructure, a real local employment hub. Ross Elliott envisages a more connected, pedestrian-friendly Chermside. Credit: MODE Design Fifty thousand jobs, not 15,000 jobs, a link people could cycle to along the creek, so you can connect the hospital to the shopping precinct quite easily. Its got all of the ingredients, its all there, and it just seems to me that because its been in the suburbs, its been one of those things that people have not focused on. Advertisement The man who has pleaded guilty to compulsive child abuse offences is fighting to keep his name out of the media. The man, aged in his 60s, faced the County Court of Victoria on Wednesday, where he launched a bid to suppress his name. The case is being heard at the County Court. Credit: Darrian Traynor Crown prosecutor Natalie Simpson said the mans offending was first detected during a 2021 federal police investigation into a chat service called FastMeet used by gay, bisexual and bi-curious men to meet others. She told the court the investigation found a series of users were also hijacking the platform to make child abuse material available to others and featured both live chat rooms and private, pre-recorded messages. Police are investigating a possible link between a suspicious fire at an entertainment venue where a former Mongols bikie was scheduled to fight and an early morning blaze at a reception centre in Melbournes north. Emergency crews were called to the Furlan Club in Thornbury about 1.50am on Thursday after reports of a fire in Matisi Street. Hours later, Thomastown wedding venue The Emerald, on Settlement Road, went up in flames. Detectives from Taskforce Lunar are probing whether arsonists targeted the Furlan Club and The Emerald ahead of scheduled events at the venues. Former Mongols bikie and professional kickboxer Suleiman Sam Abdulrahim was expected to fight at the Furlan in the World Boxing Council Interim Australasia Championship on Saturday. 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 In year 11, West Australian private school student Finlaey Hewlett was struggling to attend class, even though she desperately wanted to learn. Midway through year 12, her school asked her to leave. Now 22, Hewlett thrives working within mental health and disability activism, including with the Youth Affairs Council of WA, and said all she had needed to succeed was someone to believe in her. That belief did not come from her school. Finlaey Hewlett was a student at a WA private high school who struggled with school refusal, before finding her feet later in life. Credit: Holly Thompson Hewlett is part of a growing cohort of students who feel they physically cannot go to school even though they want too now defined as school refusal. She was passionate about her studies but also struggled with her mental health, including anxiety and depression, from a young age. Midway through year 11, she began finding it difficult to get out of bed. Advertisement It was soul-sucking I wanted to learn, and it really frustrated me that I couldnt just get up and go like everyone else. It made me feel like a failure for something that wasnt really within my control, Hewlett said. Loading The signs she was struggling were clear to her school, Hewlett said, where she was also being bullied, but there was a lack of understanding and knowledge on how to help. She also struggled to get support at home, as her mother was a single parent who worked most of the time to make ends meet. Hewlett managed to make it through the year with good grades. But by year 12, left without any intervention, things were getting worse. It just got to the point where I just couldnt go itd be a miracle if I could go down the street to the corner store to go get some milk and bread let alone show up to a full day of learning, she said. Halfway through the year she was approached by the school and asked to leave. Advertisement It was heartbreaking because I just needed someone to believe in me. I needed someone to understand how my brain works, that it works differently, she said. I felt so frustrated and there are so many years of shame that I am trying to unlearn. Hewlett believed being asked to leave had a lot to do with the school wanting to look good when ATAR scores were released, noting others particularly those in the neurodivergent community had experienced similar requests. I think young people are so often shoehorned into ATAR because those scores are what makes schools look good, and then they are made to feel like a failure if they cant keep up. Schools are run like a business, Hewlett said. Hewlett, who was diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder at 20, said more needed to be done to address the growing problem of school refusals by helping children who thought differently while they were still in school. A recent parliamentary inquiry into school refusals recommended education ministers develop a national action plan, and develop a nationally accepted definition of school refusal, as well as a nationally consistent way of recording the reasons for absences. Research has also shown intervention is less likely to be effective when non-attendance has persisted for more than two years. Advertisement In an effort to help identify issues early Orygen an advocacy group for youth mental health launched new resources aimed at schools and mental health professionals as well as parents. Loading One is a checklist of potential early warning signs students might display both at home and school, including unexplained absences, often running late, decreased participation in class, excessive screen time and tearfulness or becoming clingy before school. Orygen research translation chief, Professor Rosemary Purcell, said the start of the school year could be a particularly daunting time, as students encountered significant changes such as new teachers, classmates and schools. Not only can school refusal have a significant impact on a young persons learning, development and health, but it can also take a significant toll on the family unit, with parents reporting feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and guilt, she said. These guidelines offer ways of identifying young people at risk, and those experiencing school refusal. Read more When four United States Navy vessels sailed into Sydney Harbour last October for training exercises, they didnt arouse much public attention. But these were not traditional ships. Instead, they were prototype vessels from the USs ghost fleet (officially known as Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One). The vessels, which can operate without sailors on board, had sailed to Australia from California via Hawaii and Japan on what has been described as the longest-ever autonomous ship deployment. It was a preview of a future where uncrewed surface vessels play a major role in naval strategy: senior US Navy officials have said they expect 40 per cent of its fleet will be uncrewed by the middle of this century. The uncrewed surface vessel Sea Hunter sails under the Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of an October training exercise. Credit: U.S. Navy That future is set to arrive for the Australian Navy quicker than expected under an overhaul of the surface fleet announced by the Albanese government this week. Many key aspects of the naval shake-up including a reduction in the number of Hunter-class frigates were widely speculated, but the plan for Australia to acquire six large optionally uncrewed vessels in partnership with the US Navy came as a surprise to many observers. The plan, unveiled by Defence Minister Richard Marles, is for the drone ships to arrive in Australia from the mid-2030s, complementing the navys fleet of traditionally crewed frigates, destroyers and landing helicopter docks. NSW Premier Chris Minns has conceded that the ambitious plan to turn Rosehill Racecourse into a mini-city of 25,000 homes complete with an extra metro station might never get off the ground. Minns acknowledged the plan for the Australian Turf Club to relocate its Rosehill track to make way for a significant housing development, along with an additional station on the Metro West line from the Sydney CBD to Westmead, was not a done deal. Premier Chris Minns at estimates on Wednesday. Credit: Rhett Wyman Minns announced the bold plan taken to the government as an unsolicited proposal by the ATC in December, describing it as a once in a generation opportunity for NSW. In what was billed as the long-awaited plan to tackle Sydneys housing crisis, the racecourse would be shifted to another upgraded racecourse, with the ATC expecting to raise $5 billion from the development to invest in racing, training, and member and spectator facilities at all of its venues. For almost a century the landmark Spanish mission showpiece, Boomerang, on the Elizabeth Bay waterfront has lured the big names of Australias moneyed class, reflecting the rise (and occasional fall) of various family fortunes. So it is perhaps unsurprising that soon after would-be buyers were told they could no longer inspect the heritage-listed property that Sydneys trophy home-owning set have excitedly been spreading the news that it has sold. The heritage-listed Boomerang mansion on the Elizabeth Bay waterfront is expected to settle to its 11th owner before its 100th birthday in 2026. Credit: Despite multiple, well-placed sources close to the family saying it has sold, the Fox family, headed by Melbourne-based trucking billionaire Lindsay Fox and his wife Paula, have responded to queries with no comment. What is known is that the vintage Hollywood-style residence was quietly put up for sale in 2017 for $60 million, relisted in 2021 by Pillingers Brad Pillinger for $80 million and is no longer for sale a point made clear after recent approaches from would-be buyers. Jakarta: Indonesian police are calling on Australian authorities to share information about how recently arrived asylum seekers managed to avoid detection, so they can step up prevention efforts. The call came as a local fishers association warned people smugglers may be using risky monsoon conditions off West Java to sneak past the watch of patrols. An illegal fishing boat destroyed by Australian Border Force in 2021. The 39 asylum seekers from Pakistan, Bangladesh and India who made it to Western Australia last week are believed to have departed from Indonesia, though the precise location remains unclear. They are now in a Nauru detention centre alongside another 12 asylum seekers who made it to north-west coast of Australia in November. Is it a new modus operandi? asked crime division boss of West Timor police, Patar Silalahi, whose patch takes in Rote Island, about 500 kilometres off the Western Australian coast. PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Minister of Justice, Anna E. Richardson, convened a meeting with representatives from the NAPB and ABVO unions on Monday, February 19, 2024, at the Government Administration Building at approximately 14:30 hours. This urgent meeting followed reports of Justice personnel gathering with their respective union representatives at the Sint Maarten Little League Ball Park in Philipsburg, to address concerns on the status of the new salary scales and National Decrees after the co-signing of the Justice Legislative Package on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. During the meeting, Minister Richardson sought clarification from the unions regarding the alleged letters sent to her office concerning the status of the National Decrees (LBs). The Minister did not know letters sent to her Cabinet as stated publicly by the union. Admittedly, the union representatives confirmed that they only provided Minister Richardson with a digital copy of a letter sent via email to her Attorney in November 2023, which was before the date of the signing of the Justice Legislative Package. In the spirit of transparency, Minister Richardson shared numerous correspondences indicating that the National Decrees (LBs) were in the preparation stage and sent to the Ministry of Finance for their standard control processes, before going to His Excellency Governor of Sint Maarten. However, they were sent back from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Justice, requesting that additional documents be added to the file per staff. The first phase of the National Decrees (LBs) focuses on ratification to prevent further financial debt accumulation beyond December 31, 2023, thereby ensuring that active staff members where applicable, are placed in the appropriate salary scales. Subsequent phases will address the retroactive period between 10-10-10 and 31-12-2022. Upon recognizing the challenges, both the Minister and the union representatives agreed to support the team responsible for preparing the National Decrees, incorporating the necessary additional resources. Minister Richardson acknowledged the regrettable lengthiness of the process and assured union representatives of her steadfast commitment to resolving the situation until her term in office concludes. Today, on February 20, 2024, Minister Richardson convened a meeting with the Department Heads of the Ministry of Justice, providing them with a comprehensive explanation regarding the meticulous implementation of LBs. During this session, similar to the engagement with the unions, Minister Richardson highlighted that the team has initiated the issuance of LBs dating back to 2023, as a proactive measure to alleviate the growing debt within the Ministry. The detailed process was thoroughly discussed during the meeting, outlining the key steps involved. Human Resources (HR) Justice and the Control Division of the Ministry of Justice continues to lead in preparing the advice, which includes a pre-validation step for each placement proposal within files, evaluating the individual financial aspects related to the draft national decree, and providing necessary support documentation. Two (2) persons have volunteered to assist the HR department after seeing the depth and magnitude of the assignment. These persons have signed an Integrity and Confidentiality agreement given the nature of the undertaking. Thereafter, the advice will undergo a meticulous review, approval, and signing by the Secretary-General (SG) of the Ministry of Justice. Following this, control checks will be conducted by the Financial Administration and FBBB within the Ministry of Finance, culminating final approval and signature by the SG of Finance. The process further entails approval and signatures from both the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Finance before submission to the Council of Ministers (CoM) for approval. It will then be sent to the office of the Governor for a thorough review of each file by His Excellency, followed by pre-signing by the Governor, and finally, the Minister of Justice will affix her signature to conclude the process. Once the LBs are signed, they will be promptly distributed to each employee and the wage and salary (L&S) department. Notably, each employee is granted a 30-day window to lodge any appeals against their received National Decree. If no appeals are filed within this period, payment procedures can commence. To expedite the resolution of outstanding issues, the aim is to draft and process a minimum of 25 LBs per week. Minister Richardson urged all departments to collaborate closely in this endeavor, emphasizing the availability of designated contacts for any questions or clarifications regarding the process. The Minister expressed gratitude for the attention given to this matter and conveyed optimism for continued efforts in addressing the financial challenges faced by employees. PHILIPSBURG:--- Cassandra Richardson has been successful in securing the candidacy of Director of the Victim Support Services (VSS) role in Sint Maarten as of January 15, 2024. The newly appointed Director and her team will lend support to the victims of society who are experiencing trauma in major life occurrences. VSS is a team of dedicated professionals who support persons affected by heinous crimes which is punishable by imprisonment of six years or more or a serious traffic accident. VSS is also established to assist indirect victims: family members, those involved in abuse, altercations, or robbery, and relative parties, by Article 206 Paragraph 1 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The Victim Support Services has been conceptualized to not solely focus on the offender and the crime but to support the victim in realizing a sense of normalcy in their life post-trauma. Often, when a crime is committed the emphasis is on apprehending and prosecuting the perpetrator and there is little to no focus on how the victim will resume to live with the trauma within our society. The establishment of the Victim Support Services will remove the missing element within the Justice system and Im happy to have this realized during my tenure as the Minister of Justice. There will be three (3) appointed members of the Board of VSS. The Victim Support Services will be assisted and supported by various judicial institutions namely: The Police Force of Sint Maarten, The Public Prosecutor office, SJIB, and the Ministry of Justice, summarized the Justice Minister, Anna E. Richardson. Cassandra Richardson, MSw/M.A., a native of St. Maarten, has over 25 years of extensive experience in community programming and working with vulnerable groups. Richardson holds masters degrees in social work, Communications, and Social Justice from the University of Windsor, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Before returning to St. Maarten in 2016, Cassandra made significant contributions to the Canadian community in Windsor, Ontario, during her residency of over ten years. As a Senior Program Manager, she designed programs for newcomer Canadians and displaced individuals, showcasing her commitment to community service and development. Additionally, as a Canadian registered mental health professional, she practiced community mental health, offering support to both children and adults. From 2019 to 2021, she served as a Quarter Master (Kwartiermaker) under an appointment with the Dutch Ministry of Health (VWS). In this role, Cassandra focused on investigating the feasibility of establishing a framework to shelter seriously threatened victims of domestic violence across the six Dutch islands. She served as a Program Coordinator in 2020 at NPOWER, the umbrella NGO organization in St. Maarten, and as the Director of the Safe Haven Foundation, a shelter for battered women, from 2016 to 2019. Recently concluding her impactful role as the Mental Health Focal Point with the Ministry of VSA, Cassandra led crucial social research and coordinated activities addressing St. Maarten's mental health challenges. Victims of natural disasters, minor traffic accidents, and political abuse do not fall under the target group of the Victim Support Services. In September 2021, the Victim Support St. Maarten Foundation was established under the leadership of the Minister of Justice, Anna E. Richardson. The foundation's board was incorporated at the notary but was never realized until the present. The members at that time included Cassandra Richardson as President, Roxanne Howell as Treasurer, and Isaac Harold Richardson as Secretary. The former board members underwent training to ensure the foundation functions at the level required to provide optimal service. Currently, the Victim Support Services is already working with clients and the community remotely. Information concerning its location will soon be released to the public as the VSS team looks forward to an official opening of the foundation to be scheduled in March 2024. What to know about the NASA-funded commercial Moon fleet Washington, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 The year 2024 promises to be a busy one for American Moon landings, all under a new partnership between NASA and the space industry. A first attempt under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative ended in disappointing failure last month, but a second, led by Houston-based Intuitive Machines, will attempt on Thursday to return the United States to Moon for the first time in five decades. NASA's thinking behind CLPS is to delegate the delivery of its science hardware to the private sector, reducing costs to taxpayers as it prepares to return astronauts to the surface under the flagship Artemis program later this decade. - Purchasing services - Established in 2018, CLPS operates on the principle of purchasing services from commercial partners, rather than buying their hardware. Joel Kearns, a senior NASA official involved with CLPS, said it would allow the agency to be more cost effective and do more frequent trips, even if "we don't know how many of the early attempts will be successful." But the space agency is offsetting that risk by contracting with multiple companies offering different technical solutions. It also hopes those companies will in turn build up their own clientele, for example research institutions and others wanting to ship gear to the Moon, creating a wider lunar economy in which NASA is just one of many customers. The approach is completely different from that used during the Apollo era, when NASA dictated its industrial contracts down to the last bolt. "When you have unlimited funds, like in the Apollo days, yes, you can do incredible things," said Trent Martin of Intuitive Machines. "Now, can we find a way to do it for a lower cost? Can we find a way to do it, where there's a marketplace that is not driven solely by government funds?" - Fledgling companies - Fourteen companies have been pre-selected to be in the running for contracts, with eight firm missions so far planned. Many of the companies involved are considered fledging, rather than legacy aerospace giants, reflecting the initiative's experimental nature. The first attempt, led by Pittsburgh-based Astrobotic, failed to reach the Moon in January after developing an in-flight fuel leak shortly after separating from its rocket. It could get another shot later this year, to carry an important water-seeking NASA rover to the south pole, but the green light will depend on the outcome of a detailed review of its first mission. Intuitive Machines, founded in 2013, is also targeting a region near the south pole. It has two more missions set for this year. Another Texas company, Firefly Aerospace, has two missions, including one in 2024, with its Blue Ghost lander. Finally, Massachusetts-based Draper, which built the computer that ran the Apollo spaceships, will attempt to land on the far side of the Moon in 2025. NASA paid both Astrobotic and Intuitive Machines around $100 million each for their respective first missions. - Lasting presence - CLPS deliveries serve the bigger goal of better understanding the environmental risks -- from radiation to lunar dust -- that face American astronauts when they touch down on the surface no sooner than 2026. Unlike during Apollo, when the United States was driven by the Cold War to act fast and chose near the equator for five short trips, NASA is now taking its time to build a "sustained presence," involving habitats, on the south pole. Here, it hopes to harvest ice for drinking water and rocket fuel, with an eye on using our cosmic neighbor as a waypoint for crewed missions to Mars. Russia, Venezuela to boost cooperation in energy, including nuclear Caracas, Feb 20 (AFP) Feb 20, 2024 Anti-American allies Russia and Venezuela vowed to boost cooperation in oil and gas production and the "peaceful use of nuclear energy" at a meeting of foreign ministers in Caracas Tuesday. Russia's Sergei Lavrov arrived in Venezuela late Monday from Cuba as part of a Latin American tour as Moscow seeks new diplomatic and trading partners amid Western sanctions and isolation over its war on Ukraine. In Caracas, Lavrov met his Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and discussed "expanding cooperation in oil production, gas field development, agriculture, medicine and pharmaceuticals," he told reporters afterward. "We also consider promising the area of peaceful use of nuclear energy; we also discussed this issue today (and) we agreed to increase the volume of cooperation in all these areas," said an official translation of the minister's statements. Lavrov last visited Venezuela in April last 2023, when he urged like-minded countries to "join forces" against the "blackmail" of Western sanctions. Venezuela has long been a key Moscow ally, and Maduro has repeatedly expressed his support for Russia and President Vladimir Putin before and after the invasion of Ukraine. Russia, for its part, has supported Caracas in the face of US sanctions against the government of Maduro, whose 2018 reelection was not recognized by dozens of countries. Until the end of an oil-based economic boom in 2014, Venezuela had purchased Russian weapons and military equipment worth hundreds of millions of dollars. "Venezuela is one of (Russia's) closest and most trusted friends in Latin America and in the world... we are united by close strategic partnership ties," said Lavrov. After Venezuela opened talks with the opposition last year and agreed to hold free and fair elections in 2024, the US eased sanctions to allow Chevron to resume limited oil extraction in the South American country -- part of an effort to keep down global prices as the West pressed sanctions on Russia. But Maduro has since said the agreement with the opposition was "mortally wounded" as he claimed to have been the target of a US-backed plot to assassinate him. And last month, the United States warned it was ready to reinstate sanctions on Venezuela's oil industry unless opponents of Maduro are allowed to run in elections against him. In Havana on Monday, Lavrov had railed against "blackmail, ultimatums, threats" by the United States and other countries he said were seeking "by all means... to preserve their domination, hegemony and diktat." Lavrov will travel to Brazil next to attend a G20 foreign ministers meeting. Two killed in Iraq strike blamed on Turkey Arbil, Iraq, Feb 20 (AFP) Feb 20, 2024 Two people were killed Tuesday in a strike in northern Iraq that was blamed on Turkey, security and health officials said. Turkey frequently carries out ground and air offensives on positions of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) -- which has waged a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state -- in northern Iraq. "Two civilians were killed and another injured in a Turkish strike" on a remote village in the mountainous region of Akre in Dohuk province, a security official said, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. A health official in the region confirmed the death toll, and said that two others were wounded. He didn't specify if those killed were civilians. The Turkish military rarely comments on its operations in Iraq. Turkey has over the past 25 years operated several dozen military bases in northern Iraq in its war against the PKK. A Turkish soldier was killed and another injured in an "attempted intrusion" of a Turkish military base in northern Iraq blamed on the PKK, Turkey's defence ministry said on Saturday. Attacks on Turkish military bases in northern Iraq in December and January killed 18 soldiers. Both Baghdad and the regional government of the Iraqi Kurdistan region have been accused of tolerating Turkey's military activities to preserve their close economic ties. In October, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would "continue to intensify" its strikes against the PKK in Iraq and neighbouring Syria, which Ankara and its Western allies consider a "terrorist" group. BAE profit jumps as Ukraine war boosts defence spending London, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 British military equipment maker BAE Systems on Wednesday announced a 17-percent jump in annual net profit as government defence spending increased amid the war in Ukraine. Profit after tax stood at almost pound1.9 billion ($2.4 billion) for 2023, BAE said in a statement. Revenue climbed nine percent to pound23 billion. "Our performance, combined with our global footprint and record order intake, means we're well-positioned for sustained growth in the coming years," chief executive Charles Woodburn said in the earnings statement. He added that investment in new technologies would help the group deliver an "order backlog and help ensure... government customers stay ahead in an uncertain world". BAE said its order backlog reached a record level of almost pound70 billion last year. Shares in BAE slid 2.5 percent to pound12.21 in reaction on London's benchmark FTSE 100 index, which was down nearly one percent overall. Explaining the price drop, Richard Hunter, head of markets at Interactive Investor, told AFP: "The wider market weakness will not have helped, and there is also the possibility that some investors have simply been taking some profits, with the shares having risen by 35 percent over the last year." BAE earlier this month completed its purchase of US company Ball Aerospace from the Ball Corporation for about $5.5 billion. Colorado-based Ball Aerospace supplies spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and antenna systems, and counts the US Department of Defense and civilian space agencies among its clients. "Despite (BAE) being a UK-based company, a whopping 42 percent of its sales came from the US last year, making it the largest single contributor," Aarin Chiekrie, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, noted Wednesday. "US military spending trumps any other country in the world, so having a large exposure here is proving very beneficial and has helped the group bring in a record pound37.7 billion worth of orders in 2023." bcp/rfj/rl Iran invites IAEA chief to attend conference in May Tehran, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 Iran's nuclear chief said Wednesday that Tehran has invited the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi to visit in May. The UN agency, based in Vienna, has been struggling since 2021 to carry out controls on Iran's nuclear programme, which continues to expand even as Tehran denies it wants to make nuclear weapons. Last month, Grossi expressed frustration over Iran's nuclear activity in an interview with AFP, saying Tehran was "restricting cooperation in an unprecedented way". The head of the IAEA "has expressed his desire to go to Iran and this trip is on his agenda," Mohammad Eslami, head of Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, told reporters. "We have invited him to give a speech at the international conference on nuclear energy" which will be held from May 6 to 8 in the central city of Isfahan, he added. Iran suspended its compliance with limits on its nuclear activities set by a 2015 nuclear deal with major powers a year after then US president Donald Trump unilaterally pulled out of the agreement in 2018 and reimposed sweeping sanctions. Iran last year slowed down its pace of uranium enrichment, which was seen as a goodwill gesture while informal talks began with the United States. But the IAEA said it accelerated enrichment once again in late 2023. Tehran has consistently denied any ambition to develop a nuclear weapons capability, insisting that its activities are entirely peaceful. Earlier in February, Iran said it had started building a new nuclear research reactor in Isfahan, days after it announced it was constructing a nuclear power plant complex in the south. Somalia approves defence deal with Turkey Mogadishu, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 Somalia's cabinet and lawmakers on Wednesday endorsed a defence deal with Turkey, with Mogadishu locked in a dispute with Addis Ababa over a maritime agreement it says threatens its sovereignty. Under the 10-year pact, close ally Turkey will help defend Somalia's long coastline and also rebuild the naval forces of the fragile Horn of Africa nation, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told reporters after a joint session of parliament. "The agreement submitted to parliament today is solely about cooperation between Somalia and Turkey on maritime defence and economy, it is not in any way aimed at creating hatred or feud with another country or government," he said. In January, Ethiopia infuriated Somalia when it signed a maritime deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland that would give the landlocked country long-desired sea access. "Somalia made its stance clear: that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia can never be negotiated, and this has led to this historic agreement today," deputy defence minister Abdifatah Kassim told AFP. "Turkey is the best choice to defend Somalia coasts," he added. NATO member Turkey has close relations with Somalia and is its leading economic partner, notably in the construction, education and health sectors, as well as in military cooperation. Somalia is also home to Turkey's largest overseas military base and training facility, which has already trained more than 5,000 members of the Somali security forces, according to Turkish media reports. It is among several nations training soldiers to take over from an African Union peacekeeping mission known as ATMIS, whose troops are set to leave by the end of the year. The Horn of Africa nation has been blighted by decades of civil war and a bloody Islamist insurgency by the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab jihadist militant group. Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks against security and civilian targets despite a military counter-offensive launched in August 2022, with US air strikes and the AU troops on the ground. Somalia endorses defence deal with Turkey Mogadishu, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 Somalia's cabinet and lawmakers on Wednesday endorsed a major defence deal with Turkey, with Mogadishu locked in a dispute with Addis Ababa over a maritime agreement it says threatens its sovereignty. Under the 10-year pact, close ally Turkey will help defend Somalia's long coastline and also rebuild the naval forces of the fragile Horn of Africa nation, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told reporters after a joint session of parliament. "The agreement submitted to parliament today is solely about cooperation between Somalia and Turkey on maritime defence and economy, it is not in any way aimed at creating hatred or feud with another country or government," he said. But he added: "We have been at war with terrorists to liberate our country and today we will start engaging in another war to defend our maritime territory from the terrorists or those who have violated our lawful rights and the international rule of law." In January, Ethiopia infuriated Somalia when it signed a maritime deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland that would give the landlocked country long-desired sea access. "Somalia made its stance clear: that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia can never be negotiated, and this has led to this historic agreement today," deputy defence minister Abdifatah Kassim told AFP. "Turkey is the best choice to defend Somalia coasts," he added. - Turkey's largest overseas foreign base - NATO member Turkey has close relations with Somalia and is its leading economic partner, notably in the construction, education and health sectors, as well as in military cooperation. Somalia is also home to Turkey's largest overseas military base and training facility, which has already trained more than 5,000 members of the Somali security forces, according to Turkish media reports. It is among several nations training soldiers to take over from an African Union peacekeeping mission known as ATMIS, whose troops are set to leave by the end of the year. The Horn of Africa nation has been blighted by decades of civil war and a bloody Islamist insurgency by the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab jihadist militant group. Al-Shabaab continues to carry out attacks against security and civilian targets despite a military counter-offensive launched in August 2022, with US air strikes and the AU troops on the ground. Turkey is among those to have voiced support for Somalia's sovereignty following the January 1 Ethiopia-Somaliland memorandum of understanding. Under the pact, Somaliland agreed to lease 20 kilometres (12 miles) of its coast for 50 years to Ethiopia, which wants to set up a naval base and a commercial port on the coast. In return, Somaliland -- which unilaterally declared independence in 1991 -- has said Ethiopia would give it formal recognition, although these assertions have not been confirmed by Addis Ababa. Ethiopia, the second most populous country in Africa and one of the biggest landlocked countries in the world, has been searching for an outlet to the sea ever since Eritrea declared independence in 1993. Somaliland, a former British protectorate of 4.5 million inhabitants, enjoys relative stability when compared to Somalia. But it remains isolated because of the lack of international recognition, preventing it from benefiting from its position on the Gulf of Aden leading to the Red Sea, one of the busiest shipping routes in the world. Iran-backed Huthi rebels have been harassing the vital shipping lane since November in a campaign they say is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war. "With this pact, Turkey will protect the Somali coast from pirates, terrorists... anyone that violates our maritime borders like Ethiopia," Somalia's deputy defence minister said. South African soldiers killed in DR Congo return home Pretoria, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 The bodies of two South African soldiers killed in a mortar strike in the Democratic Republic of Congo were repatriated on Wednesday, amid controversy at home around the army's deployment. South Africa's decision to contribute troops to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission has been denounced by the main opposition as a mistake. But the defence minister defended the deployment, labelling the claims of the Democratic Alliance (DA) "a blue lie" during a ceremony at an air force base on the outskirts of Pretoria where the bodies arrived. "When membership of the national defence force are sent out to any mission... their preparedness is checked," defence minister Thandi Modise said. Family members sat quietly as they watched the coffins of their loved ones, covered by the national flag, carried by South African Defence Force (SANDF) comrades. Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe and Lance Corporal Irven Thabang Semono were killed a week ago when a mortar landed inside one of the South African contingent's bases near the eastern city of Goma. "We are taking each day as it comes, as difficult as it is, grieving," Bonga Bobe, the brother of one of the deceased told media on the sidelines of the ceremony, adding: "He had so much love". Bobo also added his family was "still happy" with the support they were receiving from the government "so far". Last week, the DA alleged the SANDF "does not have the capacity to effectively pursue an anti-insurgency campaign... neither does it have the prime mission equipment to support the ground forces". The deaths mark the first fatalities for South Africa since it began deploying 2,900 soldiers in eastern DR Congo in mid-December. They were sent as part of a southern Africa regional force alongside soldiers from Tanzania and Malawi, tasked with helping DRC government forces fight M23 rebels. "We went because sometimes for the region to make peace we must allow one neighbour to make peace among themselves," Modisa said. "Much as it's breaking our hearts to get the bodies back... it's also giving the South African troops" the "necessary experience". Press Release February 21, 2024 SENATE BILL NO. 2560 UNDER COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 204 Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) Co-Sponsorship Speech | Sen. Joel Villanueva Mr. President, esteemed colleagues: It is my honor and privilege to co-sponsor Senate Bill No. 2560 under Committee Report No. 204, or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. Having filed our own version of the bill, we thank our distinguished sponsor, Senator Mark Villar, for his hard work on this measure, which is one of the priority legislations of this administration. Because of the pandemic, a huge spotlight was placed on digitalization in the conduct of everyday business. With mobility and face-to-face interactions and activities restricted, many Filipinos turned to online and digital banking methods to conduct their personal and business transactions. Dahil po dito, Ginoong Pangulo, dumoble na ang dami ng mga Pilipino na nagkaroon ng access sa mga bangko at iba pang electronic money channels. According to the BSP, the number of "banked" population was about 56% of all adults in 2021, up from just 29% in 2019. This is equivalent to about 22 million Filipinos who have acquired access to formal financial accounts in just two years. In 2022, the share of Filipinos with bank accounts has further grown to 65% of the adult population. However, Mr. President, with the continued evolution of banking and electronic payment methods, fraudulent activities involving bank accounts, e-wallets, and other financial accounts have also increased. In fact, the BSP said that complaints related to the use of internet and mobile banking constitute 45.2% of the total complaints they received in 2021. A staggering 42,456 complaints on financial fraud, account takeover or identity theft, phishing, and other schemes were reported between 2020 and 2021. Nagiging sopistikado na rin po ang modus ng mga scammer para makapanloko ng kapwa. Noong nakaraang taon, ibinahagi ng isang Facebook user kung paanong tinangkang kuhanan ng P20,000 ang tatay niya dahil umano sa maling numerong sinendan sa GCash. Ang text na natanggap ng tatay niya ay mukha talagang legit na galing sa GCash sa unang tingin. Tapos wala pang isang minuto, may nag-text na sa kanya para bawiin ang P20,000 dahil nga "nagkamali" daw ng padala ng pera. Buti na lang, hindi nagtagumpay ang mga scammer dahil nasuri agad ang pekeng text mula sa GCash. In addition, Mr. President, one of my own staff, was scammed into buying concert tickets; she was made to believe the tickets were legitimate, hence, she transferred money to the digital bank account of the seller, only to be blocked later by the scammer. We sought the help of the BSP and the destination bank, but unfortunately the funds were already moved as soon as they were received. Madami rin po tayong natatanggap na mga reklamo mula sa mga nabibiktima ng mga nagpapanggap na representative ng mga bangko na tumatawag para umano sa security updates at hihingin ang mga pribadong impormasyon ng account holders, gaya ng birthdate, address, pangalan ng kanilang nanay, at iba pa, na nag-resulta sa pag-takeover at pag-access ng mga scammer sa accounts ng mga biktima. Hence, Mr. President, we firmly believe that it is time to pass this very important piece of legislation to protect consumers from falling prey to cybercriminals and criminal syndicates who target financial accounts or lure account holders into perpetrating fraudulent activities, including becoming money mules themselves. We also welcome the provision under the bill that large-scale commission of these crimes shall be declared a form of economic sabotage and a heinous crime and thus will be punishable to the maximum level allowed by law. We hope, Mr. President, that with this measure, we will finally put a stop to the criminal activities targeting our innocent kababayans and their hard-earned money. Again, we would like to thank the sponsor of the measure, Senator Mark Villar. We pledge our full support to the passage of this very important bill. Thank you and may God bless us all. If the Government do not act soon, they are likely to lose this opportunity. The Government will ultimately be responsible for the success or failure of this site and our ability to have a sovereign supply chain of a critical industry. That said, if you fancy visiting the cinema for some lightly outrageous swearing, in the words of Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It (which is what you should be watching if you want the real deal), Come the f*** in, or f*** the f*** off. It is another fantastic example of the NCA working with partners, including the Dutch police and prosecutors office, to tackle the upstream overseas drugs trade and stop the importation of a huge amount of ketamine we believe was destined for the streets of the UK. Detectives have released images of two men they would like to speak to in the hope that the public can help with the inquiry which includes the trawling of CCTV footage. A Met police officer is due to appear in court charged with sexual assault. PC Grant Fulker, attached to Specialist Operations, will appear in custody at City of London Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged with sexual assault on a male aged over 13. Steve McNamara, general secretary of the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association, said: Londons licensed taxi drivers are proud to be leading the way in adopting zero emission electric taxis. Our members have invested record sums in these clean, green vehicles and the plug-in taxi grant has played a vital role in making this possible. Sir Lindsay, who was first elected as a Labour MP but followed tradition following his election as Speaker by relinquishing his party affiliation, explained that he wanted MPs to have the "widest possible range" of options on what he said was "a highly sensitive subject on which feelings are running high". The British Museum is limiting the comments on its Instagram posts after a slew of demands to return a pair of statues to Easter Island. The museum has had the Moai statues since the 19th century and Easter Islanders have long been calling for their repatriation. Recently Mike Milfort, a Chilean influencer, implored his followers to join in the calls for their return, leading to hundreds of comments, mainly in Spanish, across the British Museums Instagram posts. A spokesperson for the Museum said that comments are set to follower only but people are still able to express their views as they wish. No bad thing for their follower count! The SNP have up to three days on which, as the second largest opposition party, they can lead debates. The selection of the amendments by the Speaker led them to argue they were being denied an opportunity to have a vote on their motion given that Labours amendment would be voted on first and sought to change its content. At that time, the city was half-encircled by Russians and each day after dark, they started shelling it, and you just drive or walk through Kharkiv and a big part of buildings in the city centre had no windows and had cracks in the walls from the bombs, and it was dreadful, Mr Dmitriev said. She said she believes some victims have not reported incidents because they did not think it would be taken seriously by police but also that society has been conditioned over the years to think its just something that happens, but thats not OK. I recognise that for some, however, revisiting events of the past would be too traumatic and that they may have no wish to return to such a difficult time in their lives and the lives of their own loved ones. I will fully respect that view, and the inquiry will recognise your privacy if this is your wish. When asked if Britons were doing enough to support Ukraine, she said: If somebody said collect milk bottles or something like that, or collect tin cans, we would all do it all the time, but sometimes its too nebulous and people dont know how to focus their aid. Bearing in mind my solicitors engaged forensic accountants to prepare my claim in accordance with established legal principles, it now seems we have to spend hours and hours over weeks and months with Government-appointed lawyers at who knows what cost, just to point out these legal principles to them. But to them, it might just be a good earner. If you are looking to treat your mum to something special, look no further than a hamper. There are options that can be delivered straight to her door and come with a bunch of flowers. There are luxury items from top-ranging shops across London including Fortnum and Mason. For the full list, click here. They also want the tower to be better maintained as the landmark is showing traces of rust on some of its ironwork. "They (the woman and child) were subjected to an assault. We'll allege it was with murderous intent and they died from their injuries," Mr Doherty said. Police said it was too early in the investigation to speak about motive. The untold stories of an east London pub which helped launch music careers in the 70s and 80s and the history of drag in Newcastle are also among the 56 community-led projects to receive grants from the public body. 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"We decided to have joint lists for the elections to the European Parliament," stated Ciuca, agerpres reports. Asked about the complications generated by a joint PSD-PNL list and the campaign for the local elections, if there is a risk of sanction from the Liberal electorate, he answered: "There is this risk that we take for something that is essential: the stability of the country and the government.""It is not about one party or another winning, a mayor or a president of the County Council, but about what Romania gains through stability," Ciuca said.The PSD and PNL leaders met on Wednesday, at the Palace of the Parliament, for a new round of discussions regarding the merger of the elections and a complete calendar of this year's polls. The National Museum of Art in Timisoara (MNArT), which hosted the exhibition "Brancusi: Romanian resources and universal perspectives," in the year of the European Capital of Culture TM2023, is ready to welcome the exhibition "Paula Modersohn-Becker and the artists' colony of Worpswede. Drawings and graphics 1895 - 1906," from 20 March to 21 April. The event contains works by Paula Modersohn-Becker (1876-1907) and the artists with whom she created in the small community of Worpswede near Bremen, agerpres reports. "The photographs, drawings, illustrations or books in the exhibition are works that reflect the European artistic climate that generated essential encounters, but also personal trajectories of great scope and complexity. The exhibition celebrates the prominent presence of artist Paula Modersohn-Becker and highlights a broader cultural context, bringing to light the artistic community of Worpswede. In this favourable museum context, the exhibition 'Paula Modersohn-Becker and the artists' colony of Worpswede 1895 - 1906' becomes an opportunity to get to know and integrate new cultural territories, offering the opportunity to understand and contextualise works from the museum's permanent collections, created in similar periods," said Andreea Foanene, MNArT museographer, artist and co-curator of the exhibition, in a press release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday.The works on display mirror the close ties within the artists' colony at Worpswede, a picturesque place in northern Germany marked by difficult geography and an unfriendly climate. The artists who lived and worked together there developed symbiotic relationships that supported and inspired each other. The passing of the centuries created a moment of transition in art as well: several trends were born or radically transformed (Impressionism, Art Nouveau, Expressionism), many of these changes are visible in the works in the exhibition.The works of the artists' colony, which included Otto Modersohn, Fritz Mackensen, Hans am Ende, Fritz Overbeck, Heinrich Vogeler and especially Paula Modersohn-Becker, are a symbol of a turning point in the history of art, in which new forms of artistic expression were assiduously sought.Conceived as a travelling exhibition by curator Wulf Herzogenrath for the IFA (Institut fur Auslandsbeziehungen), the exhibition "Paula Modersohn-Becker and the Worpswede Artists' Colony. Drawings and graphics 1895 - 1906" will be configured and contextualised in the spaces of the National Art Museum in Timisoara by curators Andreea Foanene and Teodora Talhos."Because her work is still too little known in Romania, this exhibition wants to raise the visibility of her and Worpswede's artists here. At the same time, the incredible timeliness of this artist, who defied the norms of the time, showing an honest perspective on femininity and demonstrating a particular determination in a patriarchal society, should be emphasised, full of constraints - a theme that remains just as topical 120 years later," says Teodora Talhos, coordinator of the Timisoara regional office of the German Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations (IFA) and co-curator of the exhibition.The exhibition "Paula Modersohn-Becker and the Worpswede artists' colony" is organised by the IFA in collaboration with the MNArT and the German Cultural Centre in Timisoara. The Supreme Council for National Defense (CSAT) will gather on Wednesday at the presidential Cotroceni Palace, according to the announcement last week by the Presidential Administration. President Klaus Iohannis has called this meeting, which is to kick off at 1:00 p.m. The source specified that the agenda of the Council meeting includes topics related to: developments regarding the security situation in the Black Sea region in the context of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the implications for Romania; the progress recorded in the field of defense planning, in particular regarding the development of endowment programmes and measures to increase the staffing level, as well as staff retention; a report on the activity carried out by the Cyber Security Operative Council in 2023 and the CSAT report on the activity carried out last year. "During the CSAT meeting, other topical issues in the field of national security will be analyzed," the Presidential Administration also informed. The previous CSAT reunion took place on October 12, 2023 ST. LOUIS Sunshine pierced low, billowing clouds as people jammed the rain-washed 12th Street Bridge and Union Depot platforms. A special train eased onto Track 1 at 8:48 a.m. with an officer's sabre slung from the locomotive headlamp. A volley by the St. Louis Light Artillery shattered the respectful silence. Thus began the funeral procession of Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, Civil War hero and occasional St. Louisan. For four hours on Feb. 21, 1891, a procession of 12,000 soldiers, veterans and notables marched past mourners on a winding, seven-mile path from downtown to Calvary Cemetery. Young Capt. Sherman and his bride, Ellen, first moved here in 1850, living near Chouteau Avenue and 12th Street (now Tucker Boulevard). They returned briefly in 1861 when he took a job with a streetcar company. Two weeks later, Fort Sumter was bombarded. Back in blue Union uniform, Sherman soon became Gen. U.S. Grant's most trusted fellow warrior. Sherman's capture of Atlanta in 1864 was tonic to the weary North and helped save Abraham Lincoln's re-election. His march through Georgia proved there was no safe place in Dixie. William and Ellen Sherman returned to St. Louis at war's end. Grateful businessmen raised $30,000 to buy and furnish a spacious two-story home for them at 912 North Garrison Avenue, west of downtown. They lived there on and off for 11 of their remaining years. From the Garrison address flowed a famous telegram. In 1884, Republicans pressed Sherman to be their presidential nominee. He wired back: "I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected." The Shermans later moved to New York but kept their home on Garrison. Ellen Sherman, a devout Catholic, died in 1888 and was returned for burial in Calvary Cemetery. Sherman died at 71 in New York on Feb. 14, 1891. The Pennsylvania Railroad provided its executive train to return the general to his wife's side. At Union Depot, just east of today's Amtrak station, the casket was placed on an artillery caisson pulled by four black horses. Cavalry escorted it north on 12th, followed by once-wiry veterans of Sherman's own Army of the Tennessee. Other units, including Confederate veterans, joined the solemn clattering over cobblestones. At Calvary, one of the Sherman children, the Jesuit Rev. Thomas Sherman, recited graveside prayers in Latin and English. An honor guard fired three crisp volleys, followed by a last rumble of artillery from a distant hill. The Rev. Sherman died in 1933. The Sherman family home eventually became an apartment building and was demolished with barely a whimper of protest in 1974. The Sherman graves are a short drive from the front gate at Calvary. A look back at General William T. Sherman Read more stories from Tim O'Neil's Look Back series. Tony Messenger Metro columnist Follow Tony Messenger Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today ST. LOUIS To describe the convoluted legal position Janis Mensah is in, attorney Maureen Hanlon turned to Greek mythology. Hanlon, with the nonprofit law firm ArchCity Defenders, represents Mensah, who has served as both chair and vice chair of the citys Detention Facilities Oversight Board. The board is supposed to keep an eye on the City Justice Center, where 11 detainees have died in the past two years. In August 2023, the board chair at the time, Rev. Darryl Gray, received a tip that somebody died at the jail. Gray emailed board members. Mensah, vice chair at the time, got off work and went to the jail to try to ascertain what happened. Jail Commissioner Jennifer Clemons-Abdullah refused Mensah access to the facility. Mensah wasnt allowed to view any video, or speak to detainees, or perform an inspection. Instead, after Mensah had waited in the lobby for several hours, Clemons-Abdullah called the police and had Mensah arrested. Police also accused Mensah of resisting arrest. Both charges were issued in municipal court as violations of city ordinances. In December, Hanlon filed a motion to dismiss the charges, and another motion to disqualify the city counselors office from prosecuting the case. Why? Because the city counselors office also represents the jail oversight board, on which Mensah was serving when the charges were filed. This case presents an unusual and highly inappropriate case where the City Counselors Office of the City of St. Louis is both purporting to represent members of the Detention Facilities Oversight Board in their task to provide oversight of the City Jails but is also prosecuting the Vice Chair of the board for actions taken when attempting to conduct said oversight, Hanlon wrote in her motion. This has set up the Gordian Knot in which the Citys Board Vice-Chair was attempting to conduct oversight prescribed by City legislation that the City Counselors office was advising them on; while doing so, the Citys Jail Commissioner then called the police; the Citys police officers arrested the Citys Board Vice-Chair; and now the same City Counselors office is seeking municipal charges against the Citys Board Vice-Chair. In Greek mythology, the person who could untie the complex Gordian Knot would have the power to rule over all of Asia. Legend has it that Alexander the Great, rather than untie the knot, used his sword to cut it in half. Its an approach the administration of Mayor Tishaura O. Jones could learn from. Jones once backed the jail oversight board, at least in concept. But as problems at the jail have grown, and calls for Clemons-Abdullahs resignation mounted, City Counselor Sheena Hamilton used the power of her office to stand in the way of the oversight board. One of the ways Hamilton ties the board in a knot is through secrecy. For instance, when issuing legal opinions to the board as well as aldermen and other city commissions she includes in bold, all-capital letters that the information is confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege. Mensah received more than one such a letter when previously serving as board chair. Now the city counselor is prosecuting the person whom just months ago was referred to as the city counselors client. Its pretty mind-boggling, Hanlon says. Ive never seen anything like this before. A hearing in the case is scheduled for March 5. The city counselors office has yet to respond to Hanlons arguments. In the meantime, with frustration over the inability of board members to do their jobs, Mensah and fellow member Mike Milton resigned in December. Both blame Jones for allowing the jail commissioner and city counselor to block oversight at a time when far too many people are dying in jail. I got into this position thinking this was a genuine effort by the city, Mensah says. It felt like, as people kept dying, the city shifted from wanting public transparency and civilian oversight to being on the defensive and trying to protect the city from litigation. Now the city is tying itself in knots trying to prosecute a board member for trying to do the oversight for which they were appointed. Its a Greek tragedy awaiting its final act. OFALLON, Mo. A cyberattack disrupted Francis Howell schools computer systems, Superintendent Kenneth Roumpos said in a message to the districts community Wednesday. All Francis Howell schools moved to remote learning on Tuesday and Wednesday after the district said unexpected activity caused problems with the districts network. Law enforcement has been notified after malware was used to encrypt certain systems. Students will return to school on Thursday, but they will not have internet access for at least the rest of this week. We notified federal law enforcement and engaged third-party computer specialists to investigate the source of the attack and confirm any impact on our systems and information, Roumpos wrote on Wednesday. A spokesperson for the FBIs St. Louis office said the FBI does not confirm or deny the existence of an investigation and would not confirm if a report had been received. A district spokesperson said they did not have any information to share about the attack other than what was in Roumpos message. Over the past two days, district staff has checked on safety systems such as key fobs, building intercoms, exterior door intercoms, fire alarms, HVAC systems and more, Roumpos wrote. Though our schools will not have internet access for instructional purposes for at least the remainder of the week, we are confident that we have the appropriate workarounds in place to keep our buildings secure... Roumpos wrote. Francis Howell is the latest school district in the St. Louis area to fall victim to cyberattacks. In 2021, malware prevented Rockwood School District from accessing files on certain systems. At the time, the district described the disruption as a data privacy incident. Last June, a Russian ransomware gang called CLoP said it hacked the University of Missouri as part of a global cyberattack. A 2023 study by Sophos, an IT security company, found the rate of ransomware attacks in education is on the rise, with 80% of education providers reporting ransomware hits. BERKELEY St. Louis County Police officers shot an armed carjacking suspect in the leg Tuesday as he fled a police pursuit here. The suspect, 21-year-old Lucas Larry, was taken to a hospital for treatment of injuries that were not life-threatening, police said in a news release. Three detectives shot him, and no officers were injured. Larry was charged Wednesday with robbery, armed criminal action, resisting arrest and unlawful use of a weapon. A 15-year-old was also taken into custody and referred to St. Louis Family Court, and another man was taken into custody but was not charged. Police said Larry carjacked a woman shortly before 4 p.m. Wednesday in the 1500 block of Sierra Vista Plaza, in unincorporated north St. Louis County. The victim reported her Dodge Charger was stolen at gunpoint, police said. Detectives found the Charger at an apartment complex at Hanley Road and Franciola Drive in Berkeley just before 5:30 p.m., police said. Larry drove away when police approached, and detectives used a tire deflation device to stop him. Larry and two others, including the 15-year-old, ran from the car. Police said Larry then pointed a gun at officers, and officers shot him in the leg. The detectives who shot him are each in their 30s with 13 to 14 years of police experience, police said. ST. LOUIS When federal prosecutors opened Dominic Pavias file last year, they found floppy disks inside. They were finally revisiting his case after Pavia fled the U.S. and spent nearly a decade in China, Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines after learning that he was facing indictment for child pornography charges. He pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography upon his return, and on Wednesday, U.S. District Judge John Ross ruled on the cost of Pavias years on the run: seven years in federal prison. Were here in 2024 dealing with something that happened 13 years ago, Ross said. Had you faced this back then, the consequences would not really have been what they are now. St. Louis County police detectives went to Pavias home in April 2011 and seized his computers and electronic devices and found multiple child pornography images. He was arrested, but not immediately charged. It took until 2014 for authorities to conduct a full analysis of the devices, according to court documents. During that investigation, they found more than 4,600 images and more than 1,700 videos of child pornography. Pavia was indicted in November 2014 on a single count of possession of child pornography. But the case stalled for almost a decade while Pavia was overseas. On Jan. 23, 2023, Pavia appeared in court for the first time. He pleaded guilty roughly 10 months later to a single charge. Pavia read a letter on Wednesday addressed to the victims of his crimes. He acknowledged that his pornography addiction caused him to seek out images of child abuse, and while he never physically abused a child himself, he continued their pain each time he watched a video or viewed an image. I know that my actions by viewing child pornography have hurt people, he said. It is not a victimless crime. He also explained that he left the country because he was afraid of the consequences and had lost everything, including a loving relationship and a future as an attorney. I was alone, he said. I had nothing. Federal prosecutor Dianna Collins said that she had initially planned to present evidence to show that Pavia transmitted the images in order to increase his potential sentence. Instead, she and investigators learned that many of the files from the investigation were on floppy disks and other outdated equipment that was no longer readable. I am unable to prove what I would have been able to prove if this was 2011, she said. Pavias lawyer opposed the suggestion that his client shared any images. Still, Judge Ross said it was clear that time had created an issue. Pavia had sought treatment and counseling immediately after his arrest. He tried to get his life back on track and was doing everything right, Ross said. But then he left. The fact of the matter is, you fled, he said, and it appeared as if it was done to avoid prosecution. Ross ultimately decided to sentence Pavia within the recommended federal guidelines of between 78 and 90 months. WENTZVILLE Officials in Wentzville School District are pushing back on former state senator and congressional candidate Bob Onders claims that the superintendent plans to censure three whistleblowing school board members a move the district says is impossible. On X, formerly Twitter, Onder called Superintendent Danielle Tormala a wokester and said she planned to censure three board members who notified Attorney General Andrew Baileys office of potential open records law violations by the board during a conversation about a potential bathroom policy in the district. But Brynne Cramer, chief communications officer for Wentzville School District, said Onders claim was inaccurate. A superintendent cannot censure a board member, Cramer said. Only a majority of the board could choose to do that. Onder later clarified in an interview with the Post-Dispatch that he thought Tormala was organizing board members aligned with her against the three whistleblowers. Its a really pathetic power play to try to intimidate duly elected members of the Wentzville School District who are only doing what they were elected to do, which is bring openness and transparency to the governance of the school district, Onder said. Onders claim comes after three board members Jen Olson, Renee Henke and David Lewis notified Baileys office that the board had discussed the potential bathroom policy for students in closed session. Baileys office then sued the district in September, alleging officials excluded parents from policy conversations about bathroom and locker access for transgender students. Tormala behind closed doors was pushing a transgender bathroom policy that would endanger our girls, Onder wrote on X. Onder, who plans to seek the GOP nomination for Missouris 3rd Congressional District, is a frequent critic of the school board and Tormala. He previously chastised members for the same allegations brought by Bailey and called Tormala a woke leftist on radio show NewsTalkSTL last year. Onders comments are just a sliver of the culture wars that have embroiled school boards in St. Charles County over the past few years. In 2022, the board voted to ban Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye from school libraries, only to later reverse the decision after it attracted national criticism and a civil rights lawsuit from the ACLU. Wentzville School Board meets Thursday, with no action items to censure any board member on the agenda. But one new business item, use of confidential information discussion, may be relevant to Baileys suit. Board President Shannon Stolle did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In an email, Lewis wrote he received no official communication concerning censures, but since the sunshine suit started, there are many that have expressed similar concerns about potential targeting against the three whistleblowers. Olson and Henke did not respond to requests for comment. The fight in Wentzville is among several local school districts that have seen board members pitted against each other in recent years. The Rockwood School Board stripped one of its members of committee assignments in 2022 after she said teachers are indoctrinated with liberalism in college, called a parent a libtard and referenced transgender crap in schools. Jessica Laurent Clark was removed from the wellness committee and as Rockwoods representative to the Missouri School Board Association after a video circulated of Clark speaking at a Real Talk Radio event in August 2022. The board also strengthened its ethics policy to require members to refrain from making disparaging or inappropriate comments regarding students, staff, or the Rockwood community. In early 2020, the Kirkwood School Board drafted and then dropped a resolution to censure board member Julie Backer for allegedly violating conflict of interest rules. Backer used her influence on the board by accompanying parents to student discipline and special education meetings, promising a school zoning exemption to a potential homebuyer, and contributing to a newly hired superintendent backing out of their contract, according to the resolution. The board pulled back on the censure after Backer released a statement apologizing for actions that were inconsistent with board policies. Backer lost her reelection bid in April 2020 after saying she was the victim of a politically motivated hit job to get me off of the board of education by any means possible. Blythe Bernhard of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report. JEFFERSON CITY Gov. Mike Parson on Tuesday announced the activation of roughly 200 Missouri National Guard troops to support Texas Operation Lone Star at the southern border, a move that has been anticipated for more than two weeks. There is complete and utter chaos at the border, and the federal government is failing to do its job to protect the states and our people, Parson said at a news conference late Tuesday afternoon. Guard members will assist in the construction of physical barriers and with security patrols as needed. Parson said he expects the first deployment to be active in Texas on March 10, and rotating groups of National Guard members will be deployed roughly every 30 days. The mission is set to last 90 days, though it could be extended. We will continuously work with Texas to evaluate needed support moving forward, Parson said. Eleven Missouri Highway Patrol troopers will also be in Texas beginning March 1. They will be partnered with Texas troopers, riding with them in their vehicles near the border and answering calls, said Col. Eric Olson, highway patrol superintendent. Up to 22 highway patrol troopers could be deployed. Parson issued an executive order to activate the National Guard for the mission, and he is asking the Legislature for an additional $2.3 million in this years budget to support it. Parson framed the states guard presence in Texas as a response to illegal immigration, human trafficking and a fentanyl crisis that is ripping families apart and destroying communities. The service members will join about 250 National Guard troops who were previously deployed in Texas. Guard members from two companies based in Festus and Harrisonville are already assisting U.S. Customs and Border Protection along the southwest border to enable CBP agents to conduct their law enforcement mission more efficiently, according to a guard spokesperson. Parsons announcement comes after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday revealed plans to build a new Texas Military Department base camp to increase and improve border security operations in Eagle Pass. The Texas Military Department acquired 80 acres of land to build the base, which will house up to 2,300 troops, according to a news release from Abbotts office. Parson two weeks ago traveled to Shelby Park in Eagle Pass with 13 other Republican governors for a news conference to address President Joe Bidens reckless open border policies and a security briefing on Texas Operation Lone Star. He also signed a January statement with 24 other Republican governors supporting Texas constitutional right to self-defense from historic levels of illegal immigrants, deadly drugs like fentanyl, and terrorists. Parson has expressed support for Abbotts approach to immigration and border security, and both Republican governors have blamed border security challenges on the Biden administration. Amid the Missouri Legislatures annual state budget negotiations for the upcoming fiscal year, Parson zeroed out a $5 million request from the National Guard to boost recruitment efforts. According to the agencys budget request, the guard is authorized to have 11,500 troops, but the actual number of soldiers is about 10,600. Parsons commitment to deploy more Missouri troops in Texas comes during an election season in which immigration at the southern border has been placed at the center of local, state and national political battles. Illegal crossings at the southern border reached an all-time high in December, but that figure dropped by 50% in January due to seasonal trends and enhanced enforcement efforts by CPB, according to a CPB news release. U.S. House members last week in a narrow 216-214 vote impeached Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for his handling of migration at the southern border. Mayorkas will likely not face trial in the Democrat-controlled U.S Senate, which would be responsible for the trial and any subsequent conviction and ouster. U.S. House members shot down a bipartisan border security package earlier this month after former President Donald Trump disapproved the proposed deal. And Abbott has touted his efforts to bus migrants from Texas to Democrat-controlled cities like New York and Chicago. In Missouri, several state lawmakers seeking higher office have filed legislation to limit illegal immigration in the state. Some Missouri Republican lawmakers in the wake of the Kansas City Chiefs parade shooting on social media erroneously attributed the violence to an illegal immigrant and suggested Bidens border policies played a role in the shooting. The political rhetoric around the U.S.-Mexico border is reminiscent of the 2016 presidential election when Trump pledged to build a border wall funded by Mexico and the 2020 presidential election when Trump again used tough-on-immigration messaging in his campaign. Missouri Democratic Party officials sharply criticized Parsons announcement, calling it shameful. Governor Parsons decision to double down his political theater at the southern border instead of urging his Republican colleagues in Congress to support the bipartisan border agreement is not surprising but is deeply shameful, Matthew Patterson, the state partys executive director, said in a statement issued late Tuesday. Missouri Republicans have demonstrated time after time that they will always choose to play political games over doing their jobs no matter who is put at risk. JEFFERSON CITY The chairman of a House budget panel said the state treasurer is refusing to appear before his committee to answer questions about links he may have to one of the top gas station gambling companies in Missouri. Rep. Scott Cupps, R-Shell Knob, had requested that Treasurer Vivek Malek appear before his House Budget subcommittee Wednesday, but was told the Republican appointee wouldnt be available. Fundamentally, I have some pretty extreme concerns about that, Cupps said. I am very, very frustrated. At issue are gambling machines operated by Torch Electronics in southwest Missouri gas stations. Photos and videos taken by Cupps last week show payout kiosks for the slot machines now include advertisements for the states unclaimed property program, which is operated by Maleks office. And on at least several of the machines owned by Wildwood-based Torch Electronics, a sticker of the state seal and Maleks name have been applied to the slot machines themselves. Its no secret that this is designed to make these machines appear as if they are operated by the state of Missouri, Cupps told members of the House subcommittee on Appropriations-General Administration, which provides legislative oversight of the treasurers office budget. We need the treasurer here. I need to know who was involved in that, Cupps said. Man, this is bad. This is bad government. We have the state seal and the state treasurers name on illicit gambling machines. Malek, a Republican from Wildwood who was appointed to his position last year by Gov. Mike Parson, was in the Capitol when the budget panel was meeting, but told Cupps that he had a conflict and couldnt attend the session. His chief of staff, Ray Bozarth, told the Post-Dispatch he is working on a response to questions submitted to the office Monday, but has not offered any explanation for the ads and stickers with his name on them. A Torch spokesman said Malek approached the company in an effort to help raise the profile of the offices unclaimed property program. This is a new effort, initiated at the request of Treasurer Vivek Maleks office and is an awareness-raising practice in which Torch has no financial stake, Gregg Keller said Wednesday. Malek, a political newcomer, is seeking a full, four-year term. Republican opponents include Springfield attorney Lori Rook, Sen. Andrew Koenig of Manchester and Rep. Cody Smith of Carthage, who is the chairman of the powerful House Budget Committee. One panel member told Cupps that shes concerned the use of state resources on unregulated gambling machines could lead to litigation. Are we going to be in a lawsuit now for deceiving customers? said Rep. Mazzie Christensen, R-Bethany. Given the facts that I know, it could be warranted, Cupps said. During the hearing, a registered lobbyist from the firm representing Torch Electronics listened to the discussion for several minutes before departing. Torch has been at the center of the spread of unregulated gambling machines in Missouri gas stations, convenience stores and taverns. The company unsuccessfully sued the state in an attempt to block the Missouri Highway Patrol from investigating whether the companys slot machines are illegal. Efforts to regulate and tax the machines have fallen short in the Legislature. Springfield officials recently approved ordinances banning the machines in the city. Cupps said it is unprecedented for a statewide official to reject an invitation to appear before his committee. For good government to take place, it has to be transparent government, Cupps said. To me thats a red flag that something nefarious is taking place. ST. LOUIS COUNTY Plans to build a shelter for unhoused pregnant women in West County will move forward, ending a three-year fight by nearby residents who sought to stop the project. Our Ladys Inn, a Catholic charity, wants to build the shelter on a 7-acre property at 13205 Big Bend Road, but nearby homeowners objected and the matter ultimately landed in court. A lawsuit filed by Our Ladys Inn against the county was dropped last week after the parties agreed to additional restrictions on the project such as lighting and fencing, according to Councilman Dennis Hancock. I hope that in the future Our Ladys Inn turns out to be a good neighbor and respects the neighborhood and the people that are around them, said Hancock, who represents the district where the property is located. The property owner, John Carrabino, said Wednesday hes delighted the project is moving forward. He lives nearby, and says the charitys mission fits with his familys hopes for the property. Our prayers have been answered, Carrabino said. Its for a great cause. I dont know why people were fighting it. But Chris Parks, a homeowner who will live across the street from the property, said hes disappointed. I just wish the residents had had a say-so in this, Parks said. If I could find an attorney, I would sign a check to file a lawsuit. Another nearby resident, Patrick Rohrkaste, said he was deeply upset with the county for settling, and with Our Ladys Inn for trampling their way into our neighborhood. Its just really unfortunate, said Rohrkaste, who plans to move to St. Charles County next year. Opponents said the project is a commercial enterprise that will bring crime and traffic. The St. Louis County Council listened, and in 2022 rejected the charitys plans by taking no action on a recommendation from the countys planning commission. Our Ladys Inn sued the county a month later, asking a judge to order the council to approve its plans. After more than a year of hearings and mediation, the county and Our Ladys Inn agreed to dismiss the suit. Our Ladys Inn and its attorney did not immediately return requests for comment Wednesday. Parks and a group of other residents who were opposed to the shelter counted 43 police calls for service to the charitys south St. Louis location from December 2019 through August last year. Calls for service are initial reports only and dont always accurately describe what occurred. The residents also said they were worried about the shelters likely effect on sewer systems and traffic. But Jaimie Mansfield, an attorney for Our Ladys Inn, has said those residents just dont want unhoused women in their backyards. The charity was founded more than 40 years ago in St. Louis, and now provides a home for pregnant women and their young children who dont have any other options. The 18,000-square-foot shelter will house up to 14 women, who may stay for as long as a year. The charity provides medical care, case workers and counseling to the residents during their stay and up to two years after they leave. Carrabino said Our Ladys Inn is taking steps to purchase the land from him. They were at the title company yesterday, he said. CLAYTON Longtime firefighters union official Kurt Becker withdrew his application to become St. Louis Countys new director of administration, according to a letter Becker sent to county councilmembers Tuesday. County Executive Sam Page had nominated Becker for the $145,000-a-year post, but county executive appointees are subject to council approval. And the council last week delayed Beckers appointment amid concerns over a lawsuit complaining the nominee had urged kickbacks to the company he worked for. Becker, who was removed as an individual defendant in the lawsuit, has denied wrongdoing, and wrote in his letter that he was confident the suit would be settled in his former companys favor. But he acknowledged the lawsuit caused concern to some councilmembers. Based on that concern, I am respectfully withdrawing my name from consideration for this position, Becker wrote. Page said Tuesday that Becker would have made an exemplary county employee. Well go back to the drawing board, Page said. Not having a permanent director of administration will continue to slow the pace of processing a lot of paperwork. Becker declined to comment beyond his letter. The lawsuit was filed a year ago by John Hughes, a former co-worker with Becker at IAFF Financial Corp., a Washington-based subsidiary of the International Association of Fire Fighters. The firm provides financial services and insurance products to union members. The suit alleged that Becker, as IAFF Financials chief operating officer, had insisted that Hughes tell two companies seeking to be investment managers that they would be required to pay $250,000 up front to IAFF Financial for the opportunity to do business with the firm. IAFF Financial, in a court filing in the case last May, denied that IAFF Financial or any of its employees, including Becker, ever contemplated participating in unlawful or improper conduct. Doug Moore, a spokesman for the county executive, said last week Page discussed the suit with Becker and was satisfied with his explanation. Moore added that Kurt is a highly qualified candidate. The county administration department oversees human resources, budgets and delivery of county services, among other responsibilities. Council Chair Shalonda Webb, a Democrat from unincorporated North County, called for a vote on Beckers nomination Tuesday even though he had withdrawn his nomination. Four councilmembers voted to deny Beckers appointment, including Webb, Democrat Rita Heard Days of Bel-Nor, Republican Dennis Hancock of Fenton and Republican Mark Harder of Ballwin. Republican Ernie Trakas of unincorporated South County and Democrat Lisa Clancy of Maplewood abstained. Democrat Kelli Dunaway of Chesterfield voted to appoint Becker. A Connecticut state trooper who killed a 19-year-old man while firing seven gunshots into a stopped car in 2020 is set to stand trial for manslaughter. Jury selection began Wednesday in the trial of Trooper Brian North. North has pleaded not guilty to first-degree manslaughter with a firearm in the death of Mubarak Soulemane in West Haven. A six-person jury is tentatively scheduled to begin hearing evidence on March 4. Soulemane had stolen a ride-sharing car and led officers on a high-speed chase on Interstate 95 before North opened fire into the drivers window at close range on the evening of Jan. 15, 2020, according to authorities. North told investigators he fired because Soulemane had a knife and appeared to be readying to attack other officers on the other side of the car. But Inspector General Robert Devlin, whose office investigates all uses of deadly force by police in Connecticut, concluded the shooting was not justified. At the time Trooper North fired his weapon, neither he nor any other person was in imminent danger of serious injury or death from a knife attack at the hands of Soulemane, Devlin wrote in a report. Further, any belief that persons were in such danger was not reasonable. Devlin, a former state judge, decided to charge North despite noting in his report that two experts consulted by a previous prosecutor who investigated the shooting concluded North was justified in opening fire. Soulemanes family, the NAACP and other groups said North, who is white, should not have shot Soulemane, who was Black, because police had him surrounded and he could not get away. Despite having a knife, Soulemane was inside the car by himself and police should have attempted to de-escalate the situation, they said. After four years, the family is eager for the criminal trial to finally get underway, Mark Arons, a lawyer for Soulemane's family, said in a statement. Soulemanes mother, Omo Mohammed, has said she wants to see North convicted and sent to prison. She is suing North and other officers. The inspector general's office, through a spokesperson, declined to comment on the upcoming trial and referred to Devlin's report. North's lawyer did not return a message seeking comment. Soulemane was a community college student who had schizophrenia, his family said. On the day of the shooting, Soulemane, whose mental health appeared to have deteriorated in the days before he was killed, tried unsuccessfully to steal a cellphone from a store in Norwalk and fled in a car he stole from a Lyft driver, Devlins report said. Soulemane led police on a chase of nearly 30 miles from Norwalk to West Haven that reached speeds of 100 mph on Interstate 95, the report said. In West Haven, state police said Soulemane took an exit, rear-ended a civilians vehicle and was immediately boxed in by police. Police said the officers ordered him out of the car, but he refused. State police body camera videos show a West Haven officer smashing out the passenger door window of the stolen car before another trooper shoots Soulemane with a stun gun, which didnt work. North then fired his handgun seven times through the drivers door window when Soulemane displayed the knife, state police said. After being charged in 2022, North was placed on paid administrative leave and his police powers were suspended. The state police union has said it disagrees with Devlin's decision to prosecute North, saying North was trying to protect the other officers. 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New Mexico DAMASCUS, Syria Israeli strikes hit a neighborhood of the Syrian capital on Wednesday morning, killing two people and causing material damage, Syrias state TV said. There was no confirmation of the strikes from Israel. In neighboring Lebanon, state media and security officials said an Israeli airstrike killed two people, including a young girl, triggering a rocket attack on a village in northern Israel by the militant Hezbollah group. Syrian state TV reported that several missiles hit the western neighborhood of Kfar Sousseh but did not elaborate or say who were the people killed. The pro-government Sham FM radio station said the strike hit a building near an Iranian school. SANA, the state news agency, quoted an unnamed military official as saying that the missiles were fired from the direction of Syrias Israeli-occupied Golan Heights and hit a building, killing two civilians and wounding another. Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based opposition war monitor, said the two killed were inside an apartment but did not give any clues about their identities. He added that the strike was similar to last months killing in Beirut of Saleh Arouri, a top official with the militant Palestinian Hamas group. According to The Associated Press reporter on site, the strike damaged the fourth floor of a 10-story building, shattered window glass on nearby buildings and also damaged dozens of cars parked in the area. An empty parked bus for the nearby Al-Bawader Private School was also damaged and people were seen rushing to the school to take their children. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of war-torn Syria in recent years. It rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria but has previously said it targets bases of Iran-allied militant groups, such as Lebanons Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assads forces. Last month, an Israeli strike on the Syrian capitals western neighborhood of Mazzeh destroyed a building used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, killing at least five Iranians. In December, an Israeli airstrike on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Seyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria. Israel has also targeted Palestinian and Lebanese operatives in Syria over the past years. Lebanons state-run National News Agency said an Israeli airstrike on the southern village of Majdal Zoun killed on Wednesday a woman and her daughter. This came after a series of strikes overnight, including one on Safi Mountain in the Hezbollah stronghold of Apple Province and another near the southern town of Khiam. NNA identified the woman killed as Khadija Salman, 40. Security officials speaking on condition of anonymity, in line with regulations, identified a 7-year-old girl who later succumbed to her wounds, as Amal al-Dur. Hezbollah said in the afternoon that its fighters attacked with rockets the northern Israeli village of Matsuva in retaliation. The Iran-backed Hezbollah has been striking at Israeli posts along the border since the Israel-Hamas war broke out following the Oct. 7 attack by Palestinian militants on southern Israel. More than 200 people, the vast majority of them Hezbollah fighters, have been killed in Lebanon since the latest round of violence broke out more than four months ago. The dead include more than 30 civilians. On Wednesday as well, Lebanons Foreign Minister Abdallah Bouhabib held a meeting in Beirut with U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware. He said: We ask that Israel gives peace a chance rather than going on with the policy of war. Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue contributed to this report from Beirut. Editors note: An earlier version of this story erroneously reported, based on information from Lebanons state-run news agency, that a Lebanese woman killed in an airstrike was the mother of a seven-year-old girl who was wounded in the attack and later died. The woman and the girl were not related. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Among the most disturbing aspects of Donald Trumps political persona has long been his consistent servility toward Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Trump, always ready to publicly savage U.S. allies and even slander American war heroes, remains strangely, stubbornly averse to leveling even the most mild criticism at a murderous autocrat who is one of Americas top global adversaries. That eerie dynamic has been obvious since Trumps first presidential campaign, when he publicly invited Russia to interfere in Americas election (and which, we now know, Russia promptly did). But in an even more disturbing development today, its becoming increasingly clear that mimicking Trumps Kremlin fetish is now required of his most slavish elected enablers. How else to explain the shameful silence of some in the GOP including Missouri Sens. Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt regarding the death of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny? Its almost irrelevant whether Navalnys death, announced Friday by Moscow, was a deliberate murder on Putins orders or the medical result of an unjustified and brutal Siberian imprisonment. Either way, Putin has managed to permanently silence another of his pro-democracy critics, as he has many times before. Leaders the world over, including in both major parties in the U.S., immediately condemned Putin and demanded explanations. Make no mistake: Putin is responsible for Navalnys death, President Joe Biden said Friday from the White House. What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putins brutality. Nobody should be fooled. Trump, meanwhile, was silent for days regarding Navalnys death. When he finally fired up his social media thumbs to comment Monday, it was in the form of a typically self-serving screed in which he compared his own supposed legal persecution by Radical Left Politicians to Navalnys martyrdom. That Trump would implicitly acknowledge Navalnys victimhood while carefully avoiding any mention of the brutal dictator behind it was unsurprising. Trumps chilling fealty to Putin has always been one of the few constants in his chaotic politics. In addition to Trumps infamous invitation for Russian election meddling, Trumps campaign in 2016 secretly met with a Kremlin-connected lawyer seeking dirt on Hillary Clinton, then Trump personally concocted a public lie about the purpose of the meeting. Trump also impeded the Justice Department investigation into Russian election meddling. Then there was Trumps outrageous, verging-on-treasonous public declaration during the 2018 Helsinki summit that he took Putins word over U.S. intelligence regarding election meddling. Later, there was Trumps attempt to strong-arm political support from Ukraines government by threatening to withhold military aid and leave them at Russias mercy. (That one prompted the first of Trumps two richly deserved impeachments.) Most recently, Trump who, as a businessman, is surely the worlds most famous deadbeat said that if Americas allies dont keep up with their financial obligations to NATO, he would favor abandoning their security and letting Russia do whatever the hell they want to them. This is todays standard bearer for the Party of Reagan. Sit with that a moment. There is apparently still enough muscle memory in the party that some of its prominent figures can muster what would once have been universal outrage at Navalnys death. South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, one of Trumps most reliable Senate allies, declared on X (formerly Twitter) that his death can not go unanswered by the international community. Other GOP senators who managed to issue similar statements despite their general allegiance to Trump include Floridas Marco Rubio, Texas Ted Cruz and Arkansas Tom Cotton. This is normal, even necessary commentary from Americas leaders regarding what should be unanimous opposition to tyranny. If there was ever a time for the U.S. Senate storied as the worlds greatest deliberative body to speak as one against Putins murderous regime, it was now. Yet, in apparent deference to Trumps deference to the Russian murderer, some have chosen to stay silent. If Sens. Hawley and Schmitt publicly condemned Navalnys death at all in the days since it was announced, they certainly didnt do it on the prominent forums they use to highlight the issues they most prioritize. The X feeds and official Senate web pages of these two generally active commenters were silent on the issue as of Tuesday afternoon though they were active enough to discuss the Texas border and other topics. If theres any comfort for Missourians regarding this latest reminder of their states pathetic Senate representation, its that theyre not Ohio. Sen. J.D. Vance, that states Republican senator and arguably the chambers most shameless Trumpian lickspittle, not only remained abominably silent on Navalnys death on his Senate web page, but continued promoting his reckless position that the U.S. should abandon Ukraine to Putin. What are they afraid of? That Trumps followers will view any unfavorable mention of Putin as somehow anti-MAGA? Has that designation somehow become worse than being anti-democracy? It may well be, at least among what GOP outcast Liz Cheney, the former Wyoming congresswoman, told CNN over the weekend is the Putin wing of the Republican Party. February 21, 2024: Control of the air over Ukraine is still disputed and Russia has not been able to muster sufficient warplanes to change that. Ukraine succeeded in persuading NATO to turn over the dozens of MiG-29s some of the new East European NATO members still had. The Mig-29 owners were willing to do this, but the U.S. initially blocked the effort. The Americans finally relented when they were convinced that the Ukrainians needed the MiG-29s to prevent Russian warplanes from freely operating over Ukraine. NATO, including the Americans, are receiving a steady supply of secret components taken from captured Russian ground-based electronic warfare equipment and vehicles, plus downed jet fighters, and that is a major plus for NATO air forces. The Ukrainian Air Force would like something in return, like those old MiG-29s as well as spare parts and ammunition for their aircraft. NATO offered to supply over 60 F-16 jet fighters and these are supposed to arrive in Ukraine by late 2024. Pilot training is continuing and Ukrainian pilots who have completed their F-16 training speak highly of F-16 and its capabilities, especially compared to the MiG-29, which was designed as the Russian equivalent of the F-16 during the Cold War. MiG-29s and F-16s have never fought each other but many Western pilots have flown the MiG-29 because after the Cold War ended many East European nations were soon NATO members, and still had their Cold War era MiG-29s. The East European MiG-29 pilots preferred the F-16 once they had flown in one. But the pilots who had flown both F-16s and MiG-29s warned that the MiG-29 could be a formidable opponent for an F-16 if the MiG was flown by an experienced pilot. The Cold War ended in 1991 and MiG-29s have not seen much combat since then while the F-16s have. Pilot quality will determine how well MiG-29s do against F-16s. Currently some Ukrainian pilots are training in F-16s, which have been the worlds most popular post-Cold War combat aircraft. Communist governments and the Soviet Union collapsed by 1991 and eastern European nations, recently under communist rule, wanted to join NATO so the Russians, Communist or not, would be less likely to return. During the last three decades these former Communist controlled nations joined NATO and have been replacing their Russian weapons with Western models. The Ukraine War that began in early 2022 featured heavy aircraft losses, with over 600 manned and unmanned aircraft lost by both sides. Currently Russia has 1,100 jet fighters and strike aircraft. Russia is a large country and most of these aircraft are stationed in distant areas of Russia with about a third of the aircraft concentrated against Ukraine. Russia started this war with a larger air force than Ukraine had. Russia has an aircraft production industry. While crippled by sanctions, Russia can still build some new warplanes each year and repair and refurbish even more of them. Ukraine also produces aircraft, but those production facilities have been the target of many attacks and operate at low levels of productivity. Ukraine depends on its NATO allies for replacement aircraft. Eastern European NATO nations once used Russian warplanes and are phasing them out in favor of Western models, like the F-16. These NATO nations have already donated dozens of their older Russian warplanes, including MiG-29s, to Ukraine. This is done as they receive newer Western aircraft, mainly F-16s. Ukraine noted this and asked for preference to receive F-16s but had to convince the Americans that they could quickly adapt to them. Ukrainian MiG and Sukhoi pilots demonstrated that they could quickly adapt to F-16s. Meanwhile, Ukraine has lots of experience with MiG-29s and Su-27s and uses them extensively. Some have been modified to handle Western anti-radar missiles as well as GPS guided bombs. While the Ukrainians have made good use of their MiG-29s, they always wanted Western aircraft, especially F-16s. The F-16 and MiG-29 are both considered 4th generation, 1970s and 80s, aircraft. The 5th generation, so far, consists of the American F-22 and F-35 as well as Chinas J-20. Each generation has been about twice as expensive, on average, in constant dollars, as the previous one. But each generation is also about twice as safe to fly and cheaper to operate. Naturally, each generation is more than twice as effective as the previous one. The Russians had a hard time developing their 5th generation, although some of the derivatives of their Su-27 are at least generation 4.5. Other nations did the same and it wasnt until the 2020s that there were three different fifth-gen fighters purportedly in service. There were several decades between fourth and fifth generation aircraft, which is partly due to the end of the Cold War in 1991 and China not becoming a major military power until two decades later. The MiG-29 dates from the 1980s and was the last aircraft designed by the now defunct MiG company. Rival Sukhoi later introduced two new aircraft, the Su-24 and Su-35. Both performed poorly in combat over Ukraine. The MiG-29 entered service in 1983. Some 1,600 MiG-29s were produced, with about 900 of them exported. The 22-ton aircraft is roughly comparable to the F-16, but it depends a lot on which version of either aircraft you are talking about. Russia is making a lot of money upgrading MiG-29s. Not just adding new electronics but also making the airframe more robust. The MiG-29 was originally rated at 2,500 total flight hours. At that time, Russia expected MiG-29s to fly about a hundred or so hours a year. Didnt work out that way. India, for example, flew them at nearly twice that rate, as did Malaysia. Eventually Russia offered an upgrade to the airframe so that the aircraft could fly up to 4,000 hours, with more life extension upgrades promised. This has not been easy, as the MiG-29 has a history of unreliability and premature breakdowns, both mechanical and electronic, which indicates a flawed design. Western warplanes are built to last longer. The F-16C was originally designed for a service life of 4,000 hours in the air. Advances in engineering, materials, and maintenance techniques extended that to over 8,000 hours. Because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, F-16s sent to these areas flew over a thousand hours a year more than what they would fly in peacetime. That led to a refurbishment program to extend F-16C flight hours to 10,000 or more. The U.S. Air Force had to refurbish several hundred of its 22-ton F-16 fighters, because their replacement, the 31-ton F-35, did not arrive on time. Most existing F-16s are old, and by 2016, many were too old to operate. Back then the average age of F-16s was over 20 years, and the average aircraft has over 5,000 flight hours on it. In 2009 the first Block 40 F-16 passed 7,000 hours. In 2008 the first of the earliest models, Block 25 F-16s, passed 7,000 hours. While older F-16s are being retired for their age, they tend to have at least twice as many flight hours as their Russian counterparts. Because of greater durability and ease of maintenance, the seemingly more expensive Western fighters are actually cheaper in the lifetime of an aircraft because they last longer and are easier to maintain than equivalent Russian designs. The Block 70 F-16 was also sold to Slovakia which ordered 14, Bulgaria asked for eight and Bahrain received 16 new F-16s plus twenty older F-16s upgraded to Block 7o. South Korea upgraded over a hundred of its F-16s to the Block 70 standard. The F-16V was the popular choice for post-Cold War members of NATO, like Slovakia and Bulgaria, seeking to replace early model MiG-29s. New users of the F-16 also purchase spares, maintenance equipment, training, aircraft accessories, like look and shoot helmets plus tech support and assistance in setting up maintenance and support facilities. These can be used for other aircraft types and are a good investment. The sale includes air-to-air missiles and smart bombs as well. The F-16V was introduced in 2012 as the last model of the F-16 but production of the F-16 did not halt as planned in 2016 because possible further sales of the F-16V turned into actual orders for more F-16s. Additionally it became possible to upgrade some or all of the older F-16s to the Block 7o standard. These Block 7o upgrades are not always possible, or practical, for the oldest models of the F-16. These upgrades include replacing many structural elements as well as installing more powerful engines and the most modern electronics and fire control systems available. Although production of the F-16 ceased temporarily, its manufacturer Lockheed Martin, also known as LockMart, continues to do upgrades and refurbishments, and produce new F-16Vs due to buyer demand. The changes in the V model are considerable. The airframe is upgraded and strengthened to enable 12,000 flight hours per aircraft. The electronics undergo an even more extensive upgrade which involves replacing the mechanical radar with an AESA phased array radar, an upgraded cockpit, a Sniper targeting pod, a Link 16 digital data link and upgraded navigation gear. The newly redesigned cockpit is all digital and flat screen touch displays that replace dozens of gauges and switches and make it much easier to fly. AESA and the new fire control system make it possible to track multiple aircraft at once as well as track vehicles on land or vessels at sea. The targeting pod enables the pilot to confirm visually what is on the surface and promptly attack it with smart bombs or missiles. LockMart initially expected to get orders for at least 700 newly built F-16V or less expensive upgrades. An upgrade brings in as little as $10 million per aircraft while five or ten of these upgrades equals the price of one new F-16V. But when you have orders for hundreds of F-16V upgrades you have a lot of F-16 work. The F-16 thus follows the path of previous best selling fighters. During the 1947-1991 Cold War Russia built over 10,000 MiG-21s and the U.S over 5,000 F-4s. After 1991 warplane manufacturing plummeted about 90 percent. However, the F-16 has been popular enough to keep the production lines going strong into the 2020s. The U.S. still has about 1,200 F-16s in service, with about half with reserve units. F-16s built so far went to 27 countries before Ukraine requested them. America has hundreds in storage, available for sale on the used airplane market. The end of the Cold War led to a sharp cut in U.S. Air Force fighter squadrons. Moreover, the new F-35 is on its way to replacing all U.S. F-16s by the 2030. The U.S. has plenty of little-used F-16s sitting around, while many allies need low cost jet fighters. Many current F-16 users planned to replace the F-16 with the F-35 but that aircraft costs more than twice as much as a new F-16V, so air forces are seeking to operate a mixed force of F-35s and late model F-16s. A current example of this is Poland, which is sending its older MiG-29s to Ukraine. These have a few good years left, which is all Ukraine needs. Since the 1990s most F-16s produced were for export and some cost as much as $70 million each, like the F-16I for Israel. Some nations, like South Korea, built over a hundred F-16s under license. The 16 ton F-16 also has an admirable combat record and is very popular with pilots. It has been successful at ground support as well. When equipped with 4-6 smart bombs, it is an effective bomber. Since first entering service some 4,600 F-16s have flown over 12 million hours. Despite fears that a single engine fighter would be less safe, F-16s have, in the 21st century, suffered an accident rate (loss or major damage) of 2.4 per 100,000 flight hours. The F-16 is one of the most modified jet fighters in service. While most are still called the F-16C, there are actually seven major mods, identified by block number like 32, 40, 42, 50, 52, 60, 70 and 72, plus the Israeli F-16I, which is a major modification of the Block 52. The F-16D is a two seat trainer version of F-16Cs. The various block mods included a large variety of new components and can choose from five different engines, four sets of avionics, five generations of electronic warfare gear, five radars and many other mechanical, software, cockpit, and electrical modifications. Until Block 70 came along the most advanced F-16 was the F-16 Block 60. The best example of this is a special version of the Block 60 developed for the UAE (United Arab Emirates). The UAE bought 80 Desert Falcons, the F-16Es which are optimized for air combat. The Desert Falcon was a 22 ton aircraft based on the Block 52 model, which the license built South Korean KF-16 was originally, but with an AESA radar and lots of other additional useful accessories. Block 70 goes beyond Block 60, especially in terms of electronics and airframe enhancement to extend flight life. The most successful F-16 user is Israel which set a number of combat records with its F-16s. Israel plans to keep some of its late model F-16s flying until 2030 as it retires the oldest ones. At the end of 2016, Israel retired the last of its 125 F-16A fighters. The first 70 were acquired in 1980 and 1981 and included 8 two-seater F-16B trainers. One of the F-16As achieved a record by being the single F-16 with the most air-to-air kills, 6.5, all achieved in 1982 using three different pilots. Israel received 50 used F-16As in 1994 including 14 B models and used these mainly as trainers. The Ukrainians are well aware of the F-16s track record, especially when compared to the MiG-29. Thats why Ukraine kept asking for F-16s and eventually got them. By the end of 2024 it will be known how well F-16s operate against similar aircraft and modern anti-aircraft systems the Russians have. February 21, 2024: The three operational Ukrainian marine USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles), also known as drones, are Sea Baby (Malyuk in Ukrainian), Mother (Mamai), and MAGURA which means Maritime Autonomous Guard Unmanned Robotic Apparatus. Sea Baby and Mother were developed by the SBU (Ukrainian secret service) and the navy. They are used by the 385th Separate Brigade which specializes in naval warfare. MAGURA was developed by GUR (translated as, Main Intelligence Directorate project) and SpetsTechnoExport, a state-owned enterprise. At the end of 2023 SBU unveiled an updated Cossack Mamai with a claimed top speed of 100 kilometers an hour. Manufacture of these drones is done in underground production facilities to avoid Russian missile and guided bomb attacks. Malyuk was used in the mid-2023 Kerch Bridge attack and was carrying 850 kg of explosives to inflict sufficient damage. MAGURA carries 320 kg of explosives while Mamai carries 450 kg. These USVs are no longer used just for delivering explosives against a target, they can also be used for reconnaissance when equipped with video cameras that broadcast what they see back to the USV operator. Some USVs have been armed with small rocket launchers. Malyuk has a range of over 700 kilometers, which means they are suitable for operations on the high seas. Endurance is about 60 hours, and top speed is over 70 kilometers an hour. MAGURA has similar characteristics. Mamai was used in the long range attack at the distant naval base at Novorossiysk on Russias Black Sea eastern, which is a thousand kilometers from Crimea. Ukraine has been developing subsurface USVs and in early 2023 the first one, the Toloka2 TK-150 was introduced. This USV was 2.5 meters long and equipped with a sensor mast that remained above the surface for navigation and to identify targets. Toloka2 can also carry a small explosive warhead. More recently, Ukraine developed the larger Marichka USV that is 6 meters long and one meter in diameter. Ukraine has planned for a Western manufacturer to build and weaponize Ukrainian USVs. Ukrainian USVs have been quite successful in attacking and sinking or disabling Russian navy ships. So far there have been twelve attacks which resulted in damage to 12 ships and the sinking of a cruiser, two small landing ships and one missile corvette. The longest range raids have been against targets in Kerch Strait and the more distant naval base at Novorossiysk. To put the USV attacks in perspective, here is a list of Russian ship losses in the Black Sea since the Russians invaded Ukraine in February 2022: March 2022 Ukraine used anti-tank missiles and armed UAVs to destroy three patrol boats and inflict heavy damage on two. Later in March a Russian naval base was attacked, sinking a landing ship and damaging other ships that were able to leave the base. One of these ships was on fire and Russia eventually sank it to prevent the munitions on board from exploding. Russia later raised that ship, made temporary repairs on the hull and towed the ship away to where the damage could be repaired. A Russian corvette was damaged and towed away to be repaired. April 2022 A Russian cruiser, the Moskva, was damaged and eventually sank after being hit by land-based Ukrainian anti-ship missiles. Moskva was the flagship of the Black Sea Fleet. May 2022 An armed UAV was used to sink a Russian assault boat. A nearby Russian landing craft was sunk by an armed UAV. June 2022 A damaged Russian corvette was towed away to be repaired in a Russian base. Ukraine used two anti-ship missiles to sink a Russian rescue tug. October 2022 Ukraine used USVs to attack and damage a Russian minesweeper. May 2023 Ukrainian USVs destroyed a Russian intelligence gathering ship. August 2023 Ukrainian USVs attacked and damaged a Russian landing ship near the Russian naval base at Novorossiysk in the eastern Black Sea. Because of this, Russia stopped using Novorossiysk even though it was nearly a thousand kilometers east of Crimean. Ukrainian USVs operating that far east convinced Russia that the base was no longer safe to use. Russian ships dispersed to even more distant Black Sea ports. September 2023 Ukrainian warplanes used long-range British guided bombs to attack a Crimean naval base at Sevastopol. A Russian landing ship was sunk and a submarine in drydock was damaged beyond repair. November 2023 Ukraine used cruise missiles to attack a Russian shipyard in Crimea to damage a Russian corvette so severely that the corvette was beyond repair. December 2023 Ukraine used air-launched cruise missiles to destroy a large Russian landing ship docked in a Crimean port. A little later in December Ukrainian USVs and air strikes sank a Russian patrol ship. February 2024 Ukrainian USVs attacked and sank a Russian corvette based in Crimea. Later that month Ukraine used USVs to attack a Russian landing ship off the coast of Crimea. Ukrainian USV operations in the Black Sea forced the Russian Black Sea Fleet to withdraw to the eastern shore of the Black Sea. Sevastopol was no longer a safe place to be, and Russian ships could no longer launch their Kalibr cruise missiles without risking attack by Ukrainian USVs. The presence and aggressive use of the USVs means that Ukraines grain corridor has been kept open despite Russias threats to interfere. Beyond symbolic significance, the corridor holds critical economic importance for Ukraine and is expected to contribute 5-7 percent to GDP growth in 2024 because of the grain shipments. The aggressive and successful use of Ukrainian USVs against the Russian Black Sea fleet was unprecedented in the history of naval warfare. Not only were these USVs tactically successful but financially as well. For example, new frigates cost about $1.5 billion each. That much money can also pay for 5,000 such USVs. Destroyers cost twice as much. The frigates and destroyers are high seas ships and can travel all over the world. The USVs operate in coastal waters although some of the larger USVs can operate up to a thousand kilometers from where they were launched. These USVs carry video cameras and satellite-based communications systems to collect information and, in peacetime, do so without fear of attack. Severe storms are another matter, but any storm damage will be broadcast as it is happening, at least until the video cameras or communications equipment is disabled. Commercial cargo ships can carry hundreds of armed UAVs equipped with satellite communications so operators anywhere in the world can control them. These USVs can be unloaded at sea and sent to carry out attacks on targets in the area or move to a nearby harbor and remain tied to a dock until needed. The only maintenance is keeping the USV batteries charged. These USVs are a radical new weapon for naval warfare and the war at sea will never be the same because of the success of Ukrainian USVs in their victorious war against the Russian Black Sea Fleet. by Austin Bay February 21, 2024 Last week's column made the case Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine began in 2004 with a covert attempt to subvert Ukraine's 2004 national election and install a Putin puppet. Putin failed. Suddenly, the Russian despot had a czarist nightmare on his border -- a food-exporting Slavic state with democratic aspirations and high-tech expertise. In February 2014, using bullets and bayonets, Russian forces seized Crimea and then annexed the region. That was a definitive act of physical (kinetic) war, complete with killed and wounded. With annexation, Russia also claimed Ukraine's Black Sea natural gas fields. In April 2014, a slow war began in eastern Ukraine, a fitful but deadly battle fought by Russian proxy forces and the Kremlin's special operations troops. In 2022, Putin escalated to full-scale conventional war. February 2024: The current front line in eastern Ukraine froze in late 2022 and early 2023 when Ukrainian forces recovered half of the territory Putin's Kremlin seized. Ukraine's summer 2023 counteroffensive sputtered. Why? As a tank officer, I blame lack of close air support by manned aircraft providing flexible close air support (CAS). CAS was vital to German blitzkrieg; it is integral to U.S./NATO AirLand Battle. Newer buzzwords exist, but basically, flyboys bomb them and stun them, and then tanks and armored infantry bust the gaps as artillery and air shred them. Call it Combined Arms Warfare. The Biden administration navel-gazed when Ukraine requested F-16 fighter-bombers. F-16s may arrive this year. Blame Biden. February 2024: Stalemate? Yes, but get an honest grip. Two years ago, how many experts would have bet their Beltway sinecure that Ukraine would have emerged as a nation in arms, defeated Russia's assault, and then shoved Russian invaders east to create a stalemate in eastern Ukraine? Front-line stalemate and attrition warfare are accurate descriptions, but the terms obscure the horrendous casualties Russia suffers in order to occupy 5 cratered kilometers. Enter politics. The usual leftist media suspects have resurrected their usual language for short-term political gain. "No-win war" -- heard that a dozen times last week. This classic thrice: "another endless war." That Vietnam-era anti-war cant became unilateral disarmament religion in the 1970s and 1980s when lefties bewailed the Cold War as fatal darkness powered by "capitalist greed" and doomed to end in nuclear annihilation. Ukraine is now in an endless war. Heard that four times in the last four days. The Beltway press dubbed Afghanistan endless, calling it America's longest war and missing the fact the Korean War began in 1950. Korea ain't over. No peace treaty on the Korean peninsula. Biden didn't end Afghanistan. He fled in demented, spineless confusion, and now it's an Islamist terror base. Unfortunately, some of the Cold War-era conservative stalwarts have indulged in Endless War lingo and applied it to Ukraine. Why? Answer: All politics are local. (Footnote: Aristotle used politics to describe how Greek city-states tried to create order out of human chaos.) U.S. stalwarts are righteously angered by the Biden administration's criminal disregard for U.S. borders and immigration law. The Biden administration utterly fails to defend our country against an invasion sapping America's economy, undermining America's social safety net and destroying our political culture. If you accept my 2004 covert action start date, Putin's Ukraine War is entering its 21st year. Cable TV/vapid Beltway media calculation is two years. The 2014 Crimea annexation scared Finland and Sweden. On Feb. 20, the Swedish government announced it will give Ukraine another $682 million in military aid. Since February 2022, Sweden has given Ukraine about $2.14 billion in military aid. In 2014, Sweden still pretended it was a Cold War socialist-holier-than-thou-oh-you-American-warmongers neutral. 2024: Finland's in NATO. Sweden will become NATO's 32nd member. Adding a new country requires unanimous consent by all alliance members. In January, Turkey's parliament approved Sweden's application. On Feb. 20, Hungary's governing Fidesz Party announced the Hungarian parliament would approve Sweden's bid to join the alliance by the end of the month. For Putin's destabilizing, warmongering Russia -- this is a huge strategic political defeat. Number of U.S. military personnel lost in combat against Russian aggressors to achieve this strategic defeat: open-source number is zero. February 21, 2024: On February 14th saboteurs destroyed portions of a natural gas pipeline in western Iran, causing a large fire that continued burning until the pipeline could be safely shut down. At the same time Iran demanded that the UN order Britain and the United States to halt their air strikes on the Shia Houthi rebels in northern Yemen who are attacking Red Sea shipping. The Houthi do not attack ships that are Iranian or Chinese. The Houti attacks are having an impact, with transits through the Suez Canal down 40 percent since late 2023 to early 2024. Iran called for more nations to boycott Israeli goods while ordering government officials to make a major effort to detect and eliminate Israeli goods that care currently getting into Iran. Iran has been trying for years to block the import of Israeli goods but has been unsuccessful because importers delete or hide identifying marks revealing Israeli origin. Iran had a bad year in 2023 and 2024 appears to be a continuation of that. The most recent disaster was the Hamas attack on Israel, which means the end of one of Irans major paramilitary assets. The Israeli military is one of the best in the world and did not expect Hamas to self-destruct like this, killing as many Israelis as it could with the very predictable (except by Hamas) result of Israel counterattacking to destroy Hamas and fully reoccupy Gaza. Hamas almost certainly expected only a limited Israeli counterattack ending in the usual ceasefire. Iran might have encouraged Hamas to do this to disrupt the recent alliance between Israel and the Gulf oil states against. The Hamas attack was a major intelligence failure for Israel and the Arab neighbors realize that this was an Iranian intelligence victory. If Iran could do this again, it would most likely be used against one the Arab states that oppose the expansion of Iranian influence in the region. Expending Hamas, if that was Irans intention, to accomplish this attack on Israel reminds Arab states that it could happen to them. Iran is a common enemy or threat to Israel, Arabs, and Turks. Surviving Hamas members were surprised to discover that Iran had not ordered Hamas to attack. It was Hamas leaders that approved the attack and many of them died during the subsequent fighting. The elimination of Hamas will be another side-effect of the long, since 1979, Iranian efforts to destroy Israel and America which Iran called the two Great Satans and has been largely one-sided but increasingly expensive as the Iranian defeats piled up. It didnt take long for many Iranians to figure out that this war against former allies was not really a war but rather an excuse for the clerics to spend a lot of money on an army of Islamic terrorists whose main job was to protect the ruling clerics from the Iranian people. The clerics thought they could control popular dissent by maintaining a militia of religiously minded volunteers who could earn some extra cash and other favors by bullying or beating anyone who openly opposed the religious dictatorship. Such government approved thugs were a common feature of dictatorships; both Nazis and communists used them. By the 1990s Irans mullah government had organized street gangs, composed of young men who are Islamic conservatives, paid to break up pro-reform demonstrations by force and attack any groups that openly oppose the government for whatever reason. There has always been the risk that a series of street brawls could escalate and lead to another mass revolution like the one in 1979. So far that has been avoided but more and more of the young men who were prime candidates to join these gangs have changed sides. Once more there are protests and even attacks on local religious leaders in towns and cities that do not have a lot of religious conservatives, or a local Islamic conservative militia unit. The militia had a name; the Basj, which provided the manpower for pro-government street gangs since the 1990s, when popular protests the dictatorship became more common and threatening. The Basj is actually part of the IRGC or Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, whose main job is to protect the religious rulers from any internal threat, including from the national police or regular armed forces. Although the Basj officially has 11 million members, the number that the government could depend on has been declining. A few years ago, it was several hundred thousand but now it is less than 100,000 and falling. Basj members have families and feel the economic decline like everyone else. The IRGC also decided to aid Hamas, a militant Palestinian Sunni group that appeared in the 1980s and took control of Gaza after the Israelis left in 2007. Hamas always had one primary goal: the destruction of Israel. Since the United States was a steadfast supporter of Israel, the Americans would have to be eliminated as well. Few believed Hamas would choose self-destruction and try to act on their goals of destroying Israel. At the same time, Hamas eventually became dependent on Iranian financial support, which enabled Hamas to buy a lot of support and some loyalty in Gaza. The Sunni Palestinians in Gaza were not happy about being dependent on Iranian cash. The rest of the Arab population was not happy with Hamas becoming subservient to Iran, which was at war with all Arab governments, plus Israel and the United States. Arabs see Iran as a potential threat and a perpetual nuisance. Subsidizing and then expending Hamas was seen as typical Iranian behavior with allies and against enemies. The large number of Israelis Hamas killed pleased Iran, even as it horrified most of the world. With Hamas now weakened from combat losses, attention is turning to Hezbollah, an earlier and larger Iranian creation in Lebanon which is composed of Shia Muslims. Hezbollah is also, like Sunni Hamas, seen as a ruthless Iranian tool that is capable of anything. As Hamas attacked Israel it called on Hezbollah to join in. Hezbollah declined. Hezbollah has always been more cautious and rational than Hamas. Hezbollah continues to concentrate on its own survival. This definitely does not include another war with Israel. Hezbollah always saw Hamas as an erratic and undependable ally and the feeling was mutual. With Hamas gone, Hezbollah continues to concentrate on preserving its power in Lebanon. Israel and Hezbollah fought a five-week war in 2006 that could have meant the end of Hezbollah were it not for an UN effort to arrange a truce and then a peace deal. Hezbollah is very aware that Israel can destroy its armed forces whereupon its Sunni Arab and Christian neighbors will drive all the Lebanese Shia into Syria. This is why Hezbollah is basically ignoring the demands of Iran and Hamas to join in attacking Israel. Hamas has a death wish, Hezbollah does not. While both Hamas and Hezbollah receive financial support from Iran, Hezbollah is pretty much ignoring Iranian calls to attack Israel, particularly in not launching the 100,000 missiles and rockets Hezbollah has stored in southern Lebanon as well as a growing number of armed UAVs. Hezbollah knows that it will be destroyed if it makes a significant attack on Israel, and that Iran doesnt care about that as long as some Israelis get killed. Iran appears willing to continue subsidizing Hezbollah as a threat to Israel, but it is possible that it might not insist on another suicidal attack given that it would result in an enormous political disaster from the ethnic cleansing of Lebanese Shia, with Iran doing nothing about the cleansing for lack of means. All this fighting by forces belonging to various religious factions has destroyed the Lebanese government as well as the Lebanese military. Since World War 2, Lebanon has survived on cooperation and compromise. This system is unstable and often fails, as it recently did when Iran tried to use pro-Iran militias to attack Israel. That did not work, and Lebanon has neither the resources nor any eagerness to improve the situation. Google's Take on What CTV Viewers Want The CTV viewing experience continues to evolve as new UX developments arise. Still, many experts and users agree that the experience is essentially broken, with too much choice and too little personalization as users #1 complaint, far from where it needs to be. According to Google TV Senior Director of Engineering Shobana Radhakrishnan in her Streaming Media Connect Keynote, the critical challenge is understanding what viewers want and letting that drive other decisions. Simplifying Paid and Free Content Discovery Radhakrishnan notes that simplifying paid and free content discovery is the key to a better TV experience for users. The TV experience has come a long way, but it's still kind of broken, she says. [Users] are not sure what to watch, where to watch it, what is free, and what they have to buy. Free apps, cable providers, live TV, on-demand TV. There are just way too many choices. I've actually heard people say where things were better with cable. It felt a lot simpler. We want to fix this experience so that people spend less time searching and more time relaxing with a good show, and they can easily see where the free content lives. Googles Unified Approach to Integrating Capabilities and Content We came up with a TV experience and a free content experience that brings together capabilities and content from Google search, Google Assistant, and YouTube TV, Radhakrishnan says. We also have several third-party integrations included in our offerings. To think about the ecosystem, intuitively, it's useful to think of the streaming business as a flywheel. The first step is the core. It's to have that delightful user experience where they love what they see. They keep coming back to the platform. So, we need to create that returning user satisfaction level, which leads to high engagement. Combining that with large-scale means we deliver the device and platform quality for global devices. So we need to operate at the low-end, medium-end, and high-end markets to be able to serve content and, therefore, ads. The Importance of Personalization Based on Regional Preferences to Build Credibility When you combine this with the ability to personalise for the user based on regional preferences, then there is a foundation of credibility that we have with the user where we can start moving into monetization in the form of ads, especially instream ads, like the FAST model, because instream ads are technically like an interruption for the user, Radhakrishnan says. So you really need to build that credibility from the platform perspective before that feels like a meaningful balance to the users. Again, because people find value in free content on the platforms, we see time and time again in our user service that having access to free content is a big part of satisfaction. So when this flywheel is moving well, the business can start making the opportunity for itself to reinvest into further scale, further innovation for users, and then further eyeballs for monetizing using display ads. And then the flywheel keeps moving. 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 Whats Next for AI Dubbing in the Media Industry? AI dubbing is poised to dramatically transform the broadcast media industry as recently developed solutions are set to be widely implemented. Numerous dubbing startups have joined the AI gold rush, capitalizing on the demand for affordable content localization. With solutions that cut production costs by 30-50%, these companies have the potential to transform the media and creative industries. For now, investors and the media are struggling with the challenge of evaluating new solutions. However, in 2024 the focus is shifting to the potential costs of emerging tools and their impact on the media industry. The major players in media localization are determined to stay ahead in the AI game. London-based VSI group, which provides media localization in over 80 languages worldwide, hired Scott Rose as CTO to ensure that VSI remains involved with the development of AI in relation to dubbing. The market for AI-powered dubbing is shaping up The year 2023 will remain in our memory as the period when the first niche leaders in AI voice translation and dubbing for content localization emerged. Automated dubbing with the human touch. These solutions pioneered hybrid translation, where humans finalise AI-powered dubbing. Startups making waves in this segment include Papercup and Deepdub (raised $20 million each in 2022). Their end-to-end translation service is targeted at the media industry and guarantees the quality required by major broadcasters. AI-powered DIY translation tools allow users, such as freelance content creators and small businesses, to translate their videos with AI and then make edits on their own. Such solutions, provided by Heygen, rely on natural-sounding speech synthesis and text-to-speech software developed by Eleven Labs. Real-time translation solutions are being developed by Zoom. Due to some technical limitations, we may have to wait a while for a breakthrough. Voice challenges: Emotions and lip-syncing Until recently, AI performed well for localizing factual content, such as documentaries and educational programs with less emotional variability, fewer voices, and where perfect lip sync is not crucial. This is because, historically, AI voices were designed for car navigation assistance or robot vacuum cleaners and had one or two emotions. Despite being indistinguishable from human voices, they sounded too perfect and flat. In 2024, as technology improves, AI will be increasingly applied to movies, animation, series, and other content. Synthesised voices have already become more emotionally expressive, sounding increasingly human. Voice cloning has made this breakthrough possible. Now, a single AI model can support a wide range of emotions and intonation. Voice cloning also helped facilitate the creation of ad-hoc voices, which was previously unavailable in AI-powered dubbing solutions. However, the industry now faces the responsibility of establishing regulations and ensuring an ethical use of human voice. Last year was marked by scandals involving cloning voices of actors who signed away their rights decades ago, well before AI came into picture. On a brighter side, technological advancements in voice cloning could contribute to improving voice acting, for example, by correcting pronunciation. Another important improvement is visual lip syncing, where new prototypes emerged in 2023. They were mainly designed for simple content and had errors that required human correction. Now, there are fewer technological constraints, and next year the solutions will develop further. How will AI-powered dubbing transform the human job market? With more AI tools available, many industries and career paths are facing a radical transformation. Here are some of the new opportunities related to AI dubbing that could emerge next year: AI Dubbing Manager, or proof listener, will be fine-tuning AI dubbing systems tailored to specific industries or types of content. This role could include listening to the automatic voice overs to grasp cultural nuances, refine voice modulation, and make corrections. Some actors and interpreters may transition into this profession as it evolves. Creative Directors for AI-enhanced productions will be guiding creative content developed through AI dubbing. They will ensure that the technology enhances rather than diminishes the overall artistic and emotional impact. Actors licensing their AI-generated voices will charge fees for each usage. More tools will enter the market, enabling individuals to generate their voices with AI. Actors will be able to create new voices based on their own. Entering the last frontier for AI dubbing This year will be marked by heated regulatory discussions, with the U.S. working on a new executive order and the EU preparing its AI rulebook. The impact of these regulatory disparities on the global tech market remains to be seen. The number of AI video translation and dubbing services will continue growing in 2024 as it becomes easier to launch new platforms and services. Most importantly, the last frontier capturing emotion and modulation distinguishing human voices from AI-generated ones will finally be crossed. [Editor's note: This is a contributed article from Dubformer. Streaming Media accepts vendor bylines based solely on their value to our readers.] Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Related Articles New location will be the first Buc-ee's in Colorado JOHNSTOWN, CO / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Buc-ee's, home of the world's cleanest bathrooms, freshest food and friendliest beaver, will unveil its newest travel center in Johnstown, CO, on Monday, March 18, 2024. Doors will open to the public at 6 a.m. MDT, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. MDT. Local and state leaders will attend the celebration. Located at 5201 Nugget Road (the southwest corner of I-25 and County Road 48), Buc-ee's Johnstown is the first Buc-ee's travel center in Colorado. Buc-ee's Johnstown will occupy 74,000 square feet and offer 116 fueling positions and 12 EV charging stations just outside its store with thousands of snack, meal and drink options for travelers on the go. Buc-ee's favorites, including Texas barbeque, homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver nuggets, jerky and fresh pastries, will all be available as well. State and local leaders attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony will include Mayor Troy Mellon; Mayor pro-tem Damien Berg; Council members Jesse Molinar, Dianne Morris, Andrew Paranto, and Chad Young; and Town Manager Matt LeCerf. After the opening of Buc-ee's Johnstown, Buc-ee's will operate 48 stores across Texas and the South. Since beginning its multi-state expansion in 2019, Buc-ee's has opened travel centers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Missouri. Buc-ee's broke ground on the first Virginia location earlier this year. "We picked a great partner in the community of Johnstown for our first store in Colorado," said Stan Beard of Buc-ee's. "At the foothills of the beautiful Northern Front Range, this Buc-ee's will introduce all sorts of bikers, hikers, skiers, and campers to the cleanest restrooms, friendliest staff, and freshest food they'll ever find on a road trip." Buc-ee's Johnstown will bring more than 200 new, permanent, full-time jobs to the area with starting pay beginning well above minimum wage, full benefits, a 6% matching 401k, and three weeks of paid vacation. Buc-ee's remains committed to providing a friendly, safe and fun stop for travelers everywhere. General Photos Courtesy of Buc-ee's: CLICK HERE. Photos of the Johnstown grand opening will be provided in a post-event recap. About Buc-ee's Buc-ee's is the world's most-loved travel center. Founded in 1982, Buc-ee's now has 34 stores across Texas, including the world's largest convenience store, as well as 14 locations in other states. Buc-ee's is known for pristine bathrooms, a large amount of fueling positions, friendly service, Buc-ee's apparel and fresh, delicious food. Originally launched and still headquartered in Texas, Buc-ee's has combined traditional quality and modern efficiency to redefine the pit stop for their customers. For more information, visit www.buc-ees.com. Contact Information Rachel Austin Publicist [email protected] SOURCE: Buc-ee's View the original press release on newswire.com. WINDOW ROCK, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Din Development Corporation (DDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of three distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors: Mark Freeland, Sam Rosenfeld, and Brad Preber. The new members bring a wealth of experience in Navajo government, risk management, and finance industries to oversee DDC's strategy and governance. "As we embark on our twentieth year as an organization, it is a pivotal time to welcome refreshed perspectives to our growth initiatives," stated DDC CEO, Austin Tsosie. "Our new members strengthen our Navajo, financial, and compliance expertise to usher in the next tier of excellence, innovation, and expansion in support of our customers, the Navajo Nation, and communities we serve." Mark Freeland is a former Council Delegate of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, the legislative branch of the Navajo Nation Government. In this role, he served on the Council's Resources and Development Committee (RDC) regulating authority of the Navajo Nation's environmental and cultural resources, economic development, and other areas vital to Tribal sustainability. Mr. Freeland formerly served as Executive Staff Assistant for the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President and is currently pursuing an MBA from the University of New Mexico. Sam Rosenfeld is the Managing Director of SR Advisory, a private advisory firm offering bespoke consulting to a variety of clients. He also serves as the Managing Director of Cenerus providing financial and infrastructure management services delivering efficiency, transparency, and flexibility of financial operations. Prior to his current roles, he led organizations that delivered political and operational risk management and asset management in the international defense sector. He holds an Australian Financial Services License; MBA from Wharton Business School; MSc in Risk, Crisis, and Disaster Management; and BA in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the University of Leicester. Mr. Rosenfeld is published by the Wharton Financial Institution Center, volunteers through international organizations as a mentor to emerging market entrepreneurs, and advises technology start-ups and funds. Bradley (Brad) J. Preber is the former CEO and Chairman of the Board of Grant Thornton (GTUS), one of the largest audit, tax, and advisory services firms in the U.S. and largest member firm of Grant Thornton International, one of six global networks. Prior to joining GTUS, Brad worked for Touche Ross & Co. and Arthur Andersen serving as an Audit and Advisory Partner. During his tenure at GTUS, Brad served on the Board of Directors for various GTUS sectors and the Center for Audit Quality leading the Anti-Fraud Work Group. Brad is currently a Trustee for the University of New Mexico Foundation and serves on the Board of The Plaza Group. He holds a BBA from the University of New Mexico where he was inducted into the Robert O. Anderson School of Management Hall of Fame. Brad held certifications including CPA, CGMA, CFF, CFE, and CCA and was qualified as a financial expert under SEC rules. Brad is an esteemed financial communications author and data analytics co-author. Contact Information: Katie von Allmen Senior Marketing Manager [email protected] SOURCE: Dine Development Corporation (DDC) View the original press release on newswire.com. TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / Velox Energy Materials Inc. (TSXV:VLX) ("Velox" or "the Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of a major metallurgical testwork program on vanadium samples from the Cambridge Vanadium deposit in Queensland. Highlights Appointment of leading process engineers, BHM Process Consultants, to oversee the metallurgical program across the Cambridge deposit. Representative core samples from the recent diamond drilling program selected to assess different mineralogical zones within the prospective Toolebuc Formation. Samples have been submitted to Brisbane Met Labs (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium deposits. BML has multiple years in the analysis of Vanadium ores from Northern Queensland, which also includes being awarded an Industry Innovation grant for the establishment of a -vanadium pilot plant to process ore into vanadium pentoxide for the VRFB industry. Results from the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024. Metallurgical Testwork Program Perth-based BHM Process Consultants (BHM) have been appointed to oversee the metallurgical testwork program for the Cambridge Vanadium Project in North Queensland, Australia. BHM has excellent experience in processing from metallurgical testwork through to flowsheet design and plant commissioning. A total of 12 composite samples were created from the recent diamond drilling program, from 4 drillholes that represent the bulk of the defined Cambridge deposit. Each composite represents different mineralogical zones within the Toolebuc Formation that host the vanadium mineralisation. The samples will be analysed by Brisbane Met Labs, (BML), an expert in the assessment of North Queensland Vanadium deposits. In 2021, BML was awarded an Industry Innovation grant by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources in Australia for the building and commissioning of a Vanadium Pilot Plant to allow processing of ore into Vanadium Pentoxide for the International Vanadium Redox Flow Battery market. The results of the metallurgical testwork program are expected in mid-2024 and will be used to guide the next stages of development of the project. Velox's President and CEO, Simon Coyle, commented: "Velox has been selective in the engagement of metallurgical consultants as well as the laboratory being utilized, to ensure we have the appropriate knowledge base to perform our maiden met testwork. BML have significant expertise in the assessment of North Queensland vanadium ores, which provides us with the confidence we have the best in class to conduct the analysis of our Cambridge Mineral Resource. Velox's goal is to have a process flow for our ores that creates world class recoveries, coupled with a low operating cost base. "Given the relatively homogenous nature of the Toolebuc Formation across the region, we are confident that the metallurgical testwork program will deliver positive results and allow us to progress to the next stage of studies." Qualified Persons The Velox Energy Materials technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects) and reviewed and approved on behalf Velox Energy Materials by Michael Griffiths, FAusIMM, Director & VP Exploration for Velox Energy Materials, a Qualified Person. About Velox Energy Materials Velox Energy Materials is a publicly traded energy materials company developing and progressing high-value assets in resource and research-friendly jurisdictions. The Company's priority focus is the advanced NQV Project in Queensland, Australia. The NQV Project hosts the Cambridge Deposit with an CIM compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 61.33 Mt @ 0.34% V 2 O 5 and 234.6 ppm MoO 3 along with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 144.87 Mt @ 0.33% V 2 O 5 (cut-off grade of 0.25% V2O5) and 241.9 ppm MoO 3 (Dufresne et al., 2022). The Company is targeting shallow, high-grade mineralisation that can be developed using low-cost mining and processing options. The Company additionally owns Kotai Energy and the option to acquire 100% of the intellectual property rights associated with the Solid-State Hydrogen Storage Project from Curtin University in Western Australia. Kotai is focused on the commercialisation of technology that can produce high-pressure hydrogen following transport as an inert powder. In October 2023, the Company acquired a package of tenements that are prospective for lithium in eastern Quebec. Please visit our website at www.veloxenergymaterials.com.au for further information. Approved by the Board of Velox Energy Materials Inc. Simon Coyle President & CEO +1 416-214-7577 Investor Relations Contact Andrew Rowell Investor Relations - Australia M: +61 400 466 226 Email: [email protected] Forward Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's expectations, estimates and projections regarding its business and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements about the closing of the transaction, expected terms of the transaction, the number of securities of Velox Energy Materials that may be issued in connection with the transaction, and the parties' ability to satisfy closing conditions and receive necessary approvals are all forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements and readers should not place undue reliance on such statements. Statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update them publicly to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances, unless otherwise required to do so by law. SOURCE: Velox Energy Materials Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com LAKEWOOD, CA / ACCESSWIRE / February 20, 2024 / Open Automation Software (OAS) is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation: a cutting-edge Sparkplug B interface designed to redefine the standards of integration and communication within the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) landscape. This strategic update to the OAS platform signifies a pivotal advancement in the way industries connect, monitor, and manage their operational data across diverse systems and devices. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Ken Eldridge, OAS has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation, dedicated to providing robust and scalable solutions that meet the ever-evolving needs of industrial automation. The introduction of the Sparkplug B interface is a testament to OAS's commitment to enhancing interoperability and data coherence in industrial IoT ecosystems. Seamless Integration Across Diverse Systems The Sparkplug B protocol, known for its ability to standardize MQTT data transport, is now fully integrated into the OAS platform, offering users a seamless and unified approach to managing their IoT devices and data streams. This interface empowers OAS users to achieve bi-directional communication with all tags in the OAS Engine, utilizing a variety of Sparkplug B identifiers. This level of integration facilitates a more cohesive and efficient operational environment, enabling industries to leverage real-time data for informed decision-making and enhanced operational efficiency. Comprehensive Support for a Wide Range of Data Sources OAS's Sparkplug B interface supports an extensive array of data sources, including industry-leading PLCs such as Allen Bradley, Siemens S7, and Modbus, as well as OPC UA, OPC DA, MTConnect, and more. This comprehensive compatibility ensures that businesses can effortlessly connect and manage their diverse devices and data systems, fostering a more connected and efficient industrial landscape. Advanced Bi-Directional Communication Capabilities With the Sparkplug B interface, OAS introduces advanced bi-directional communication features that allow for not only the monitoring of data but also the control of IoT devices directly from the OAS platform. This capability is essential for industries that require dynamic and responsive control environments, where data from IoT devices can be immediately acted upon to optimize processes and ensure operational continuity. Enhanced Connectivity with Third-Party MQTT Brokers Recognizing the importance of flexibility in IoT deployments, OAS's Sparkplug B interface is designed to connect with any third-party MQTT Broker that supports MQTT V3.11 or V5.0. This open approach to connectivity ensures that businesses can choose the best tools for their specific needs, without being locked into a single vendor or ecosystem. Empowering Users with Comprehensive Guides and Resources To ensure that users can fully leverage the new Sparkplug B interface, OAS provides detailed guides and resources, including step-by-step instructions for setting up Sparkplug B communications. These resources are designed to empower users, regardless of their technical expertise, to implement and benefit from the advanced capabilities of the OAS platform. About Open Automation Software Open Automation Software, based in Lakewood, Colorado, is a leading provider of industrial automation software solutions, with a commitment to innovation, reliability, and excellence. For over two decades, OAS has been dedicated to empowering businesses worldwide with the tools and insights needed to optimize their operations and drive growth. Media Contact Organization: Open Automation Software Contact Person: George Website: https://www.openautomationsoftware.com Email: [email protected] Contact Number: +13036790898 City: Lakewood State: Colorado Country: United States SOURCE: Open Automation Software View the original press release on accesswire.com TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Roscan Gold Corporation ("Roscan" or the "Company") (TSX-V:ROS)(FSE:2OJ)(OTCQB: RCGCF) is pleased to announce that it has agreed to settle (the "Debt Settlement") an aggregate of USD$1,005,000 debt owed to an arm's length creditor through the issuance of a secured convertible promissory note (the "Note"). In addition, the Company intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to CAD$1,000,000 principal amount as a secured subordinated note for gross proceeds of up to CAD$1,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Notes shall bear interest at 12% per annum from the date of issuance and shall mature on the date that is six months from the date of issuance (the "Maturity Date"). The Notes will be convertible, in whole or in part, into common shares (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company at a conversion price (the "Conversion Price") equal to CAD$0.11 per Common Share. The Note holders shall receive accrued and unpaid interest on the Note, paid in cash, up to, but excluding, the earlier of the date of conversion and the Maturity Date. The Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security ranking subordinate to the other secured indebtedness of the Company, over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company. The Notes issued pursuant to the Offering shall be secured by way of a general security agreement providing security over all of the present and after-acquired property of the Company ranking subordinate to the Note issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement and all other secured indebtedness of the Company. Closing of the Debt Settlement and the Offering are subject to customary closing conditions, including the consent of the secured creditor of the Company with respect to the grant of security, and approvals of applicable securities regulatory authorities, including the TSX Venture Exchange. It is expected that insiders of the Company will participate in the Offering for CAD$400,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes. Additional details regarding insider participation will be provided in subsequent press releases of the Company. All securities issued in connection with the Offering and the Debt Settlement will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Roscan Roscan Gold Corporation is a Canadian gold exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of gold properties in West Africa. The Company has assembled a significant land position of 100%-owned permits in an area of producing gold mines (including B2 Gold's Fekola Mine which lies in a contiguous property to the west of Kandiole), and major gold deposits, located both north and south of its Kandiole Project in West Mali. For further information, please contact: Nana Sangmuah President & CEO Tel: (902) 832-5555 Email: [email protected] Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including that all necessary governmental and regulatory approvals will be received as and when expected. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Roscan Gold Corporation View the original press release on accesswire.com WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / The Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA) is thrilled to announce the relaunch of its Snapshots Program, a cutting-edge initiative designed to aggregate vital insights into the industry's journey toward a carbon-free future. The revamped Snapshots Program, aligned with SEPA's five focus areas - Resilience, Transportation, Emerging Technologies, Policy, and Energy Storage - along with Energy Equity, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the industry landscape while fostering collaboration and driving progress toward shared clean energy goals. Through short, 15-minute pulse surveys conducted semi-annually, the Snapshots Program will capture and report on the perspectives of utilities and industry stakeholders, facilitating a deeper understanding of industry trends and challenges. In recognizing that every stakeholder in the energy industry faces different organizational challenges, SEPA is bridging the gaps between utilities and the industry. These insights will be instrumental in developing flagship market intelligence reports later in the year, offering in-depth analysis of our transition to carbon-free electricity. "We are excited to relaunch the Snapshots Program as part of our ongoing commitment to advancing actionable solutions progressing a carbon-free energy sector. By harnessing the collective wisdom of industry stakeholders, we aim to drive meaningful change and innovation, ultimately accelerating the industry's shift. We encourage all energy stakeholders to contribute their insights to this program and to play a vital role in shaping the future of clean energy. Your expertise and experience are crucial, and we look forward to collaborating with you on this journey," shared Sheri Givens, President and CEO of SEPA. The first pulse survey, which is focused on utilities, is now live. This will gather information on program adoption, implementation processes, encountered barriers, and industry outlook. Utility personnel interested in participating in the survey can click here. The industry survey, launching this summer, will capture similar information around technology and solution development, encountered challenges, and future perspectives on the industry as a whole. This second pulse survey will target non-utility industry players, including solution providers, regulatory entities, and other private or non-profit organizations. To learn more about the Snapshots Program, click here. Participants will receive exclusive early access to SEPA's comprehensive Snapshots Market Intelligence Reports, scheduled for release in the fall. The utility survey submission deadline is Tuesday, March 12. For inquiries or assistance, please contact SEPA at [email protected]. About SEPA: The Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA), a 501(c)(3) organization with over 1,100 members, is dedicated to accelerating the transformation to a carbon-free electricity system. Focused on five critical focus areas including Resilience, Transportation, Energy Storage, Emerging Technology, and Policy, SEPA brings together a diverse community of electric power stakeholders committed to driving positive change. By actively shaping the future of the industry, SEPA delivers exceptional value to its extensive membership through comprehensive research, educational initiatives, engaging events, and collaborative projects. SEPA plays a vital role in contributing to the collective efforts towards a carbon-free energy landscape. For more information, please visit www.sepapower.org. Contact Information Natalie Goldfarb Director of Communications [email protected] (771) 213-6988 SOURCE: Smart Electric Power Alliance View the original press release on newswire.com. WORCESTER, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / SideChannel, Inc. (OTCQB: SDCH) ("SideChannel" or the "Company"), a leading provider of cybersecurity services and technology to emerging and middle market companies, is delighted to announce the appointment of two esteemed professionals, General (Retired) Robert Brown, and Mr. James Hansen, to its Board of Directors. The Company also announces the addition of Mr. Nick Hnatiw, the company's Chief Technology Officer, to the Board, and the re-election of Deborah MacConnel as Chairwoman of the Board. These strategic appointments and re-election underscore SideChannel's dedication to leadership excellence and innovation in addressing cybersecurity challenges. General (Retired) Robert Brown brings a wealth of leadership and national security experience to the board. His distinguished military career, culminating as a four-star general and his final command of the United States Army Pacific, highlights his exemplary commitment to service and strategic acumen. General Brown's involvement with the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) as Chief Executive Officer and his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) Board further highlight his dedication to supporting military communities and enhancing national security. Mr. James Hansen joins the board with an impressive background in the cybersecurity sector. His recent role as CEO of a leading cybersecurity software company, coupled with his tenure as President and COO at Swimlane and COFENSE, underscores his deep understanding of the cybersecurity challenges facing organizations today. Mr. Hansen's experience as a co-founder and COO of Mandiant (now part of Google "GOOG") demonstrates his expertise in managing high-stakes cyber incidents and his commitment to advancing cybersecurity resilience. Mr. Nick Hnatiw, who has served as SideChannel's Chief Technology Officer since November 2020, joins the Board with over 15 years of experience in creating cutting-edge software technologies. His leadership in developing security solutions and his prior roles supporting U.S. Cyber Command and Intelligence Agencies solidify his expertise in cybersecurity and technology innovation. Deborah MacConnel has been re-elected as Chairwoman of the Board, continuing her leadership role in steering the strategic direction of SideChannel. Her re-election reflects the board's confidence in her leadership and her significant contributions to the company's success. Brian Haugli, CEO of SideChannel, shared his enthusiasm about these developments: "The addition of General Brown, Mr. Hansen, and Mr. Hnatiw to our Board, alongside the re-election of Deborah MacConnel as Chairwoman, marks a significant milestone for SideChannel. General Brown's strategic insights, Mr. Hansen's cybersecurity acumen, and Mr. Hnatiw's technological expertise, under the continued guidance of Chairwoman MacConnel, will be invaluable as we navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape. We are poised for unprecedented growth and innovation, driven by our strengthened leadership team." The appointments and re-election are effective immediately, with the new board members actively contributing to SideChannel's mission of providing advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect against emerging threats. For more information about SideChannel and its solutions, please visit https://sidechannel.com. About SideChannel SideChannel helps emerging and mid-market companies protect their assets. Founded in 2019, the Company delivers comprehensive cybersecurity plans through a series of actions branded, SideChannel Complete. SideChannel deploys a combination of skilled and experienced talent, and technological tools to offer layered defense strategies supported by battle-tested processes. SideChannel also offers Enclave; a network infrastructure platform that eases the journey from zero to zero-trust. Learn more at sidechannel.com. Investors and shareholders are encouraged to receive press releases and industry updates by subscribing to the investor email newsletter and following SideChannel on X and LinkedIn. SideChannel 146 Main Street, Suite 405 Worcester, MA 01608 Investor Contact Ryan Polk [email protected] Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including information about management's view of SideChannel's future expectations, plans and prospects, subject to the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words "believes", "hopes", "expects", "intends", "plans", "anticipates", "potential", "could", "should" or "may", and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Act and otherwise. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash and other measures of financial performance. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause SDCH's actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risk factors include, but are not limited to: that we have incurred net losses since inception, our need for additional funding, the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, and the terms of any future funding we raise; our dependence on current management and our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; competition for our products; our ability to develop and successfully introduce new products, improve current products and innovate; unpredictability in our operating results; our ability to retain existing licensees and add new licensees; our ability to manage our growth; our ability to protect our intellectual property (IP), enforce our IP rights and defend against claims that we infringed on the IP of others; the risk associated with the concentration of our cash in one financial institution at levels above the amount protected by FDIC insurance; and other risk factors included from time to time in documents we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, our Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Further, factors that we do not presently deem material as of the date of this release may become material in the future. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. SideChannel cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Finally, SideChannel undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements after the date of this release, except as required by law, nor any obligation to update or correct information prepared by third parties. SOURCE: SideChannel View the original press release on accesswire.com Enbridge's in-kind donation of 120 valves provides training for Alexander Valve and Supply, prosperity for Alexander First Nation NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Enbridge In 2018, seven motivated employees in a 7,500-square-foot warehouse began valve modification work for the oil and gas industry. From left, Enbridge's Enbridge Terminal manager Matt McPherson, Pamela Strankman of Enbridge's Supply Chain Management group, and Alexander Valve and Supply President/SEO Ken Braget display some of the 120 suprlus valves donated by Enbridge in August 2023. Fast forward to 2023, and Alexander Valve and Supply is Canada's first Indigenous community-owned valve and supply company-with $45 million in inventory, a strong track record of Indigenous employment, and hard-won expertise in the oil-and-gas, mining, refining, pulp-and-paper, and petrochemical markets. A fantastic success story, to be sure . . .with plenty more training opportunities on the way. In recent weeks, Enbridge officials made a joint announcement with leadership from Alexander First Nation, which holds a significant ownership stake in Alexander Valve and Supply, during the Nation's Treaty Week gathering and celebrations near Morinville, AB. At the Aug. 21 event, Enbridge announced a donation of 120 surplus valves to Alexander Valve and Supply. The donated valves will be used to train new or future employees, including members of the Alexander First Nation, in valve servicing and refurbishment. "As CEO of ABC and also a member of the Nation, I want to thank Enbridge for their generous donation to our Valve company and ultimately to our Nation's continued growth," says Ian Arcand, President and CEO of the Alexander Business Corporation, the economic arm of Alexander First Nation. "We started ABC in 2018, and with the support and guidance from Chief George Arcand Jr. and his council, we certainly are reaching our goals of creating long-term sustainable businesses on the Nation that meet our four main TIER business pillars-Training members, Investing back into our community, Employment. and generating own-source Revenue," adds Ian Arcand. "I look forward to working with Enbridge into the future based on a true business relationship that benefits both parties." Alexander Valve and Supply is an approved vendor for the likes of Enbridge and international manufacturer Valvitalia, and in 2022 produced the first Indigenous-made ball valve in Canada on First Nations land. Enbridge's donated valves range in diameter from inch to 42 inches, and create an opportunity for Alexander First Nation members and Alexander Valve and Supply employees to learn basic skills such as working with hand tools, cleaning, machining and painting. "With every valve that Alexander refurbishes and sells, 100% of the profit goes to supporting community initiatives or putting community members through post-secondary school," said Matt McPherson, manager of Enbridge's Edmonton Terminal facility, during the Aug. 21 event. "So, as (Alexander Valve and Supply President and CEO) Ken Braget has said, what might look like scrap to some people can actually be a way of helping to change an entire community forever," he added. "We at Enbridge commend Ken and the team at Alexander Valve for their vision in approaching us with the idea and making this donation a reality. It's a real win-win for all involved, and we are happy to support such a great cause." A $10,000 Fueling Futures grant from Enbridge helped to support Alexander First Nation during its Treaty Week celebrations. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Enbridge on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Enbridge Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/enbridge Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Enbridge View the original press release on accesswire.com MAPS program helped remove barriers to education; Candi Sneed becomes first link in a chain of future engineers NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024 / Candi Sneed had always been passionate about pursuing higher education and a career in engineering. However, the cost of tuition and the lack of flexibility in traditional academic programs have been a barrier for her. That was until she discovered the Medtronic Advancement Pathways and Skill-building (MAPS) program. MAPS is a powerful program for Medtronic employees in the U.S. and Puerto Rico to take control of their education and career development, starting on day one of employment with no strings attached. The program pays 100% of tuition directly to eligible academic institution s , allowing employees to pursue their academic goals without needing to cover the cost of courses up-front. Employees have access to 90 online undergraduate degree programs. Candi, a Senior Analyst at our Tempe, Arizona facility, jumped at the opportunity to take part in MAPS. "I was excited because there were no upfront costs. It was a game-changer for me," she said. She immediately enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering program at Arizona State University. The program was specifically designed for working adults, with flexible schedules and online coursework that allowed her to balance her work and academic commitments. While initially apprehensive about returning to school after a long gap, the support Candi received from MAPS and her professors helped ease her nerves. "I find that I can convey technical concepts more clearly, fostering better collaboration and understanding amongst my team. The technical knowledge and soft skills I've gained through this program elevated my job performance and positioned me well for career advancement here at Medtronic," said Candi. We know that degree requirements can be a barrier to talented candidates, including ethnically diverse groups and veterans, when it comes to advancing their careers. Candi is among the first group of MAPS graduates and obtained her bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 2023. Her story is just one of many that have emerged from MAPS, which has helped hundreds of Medtronic employees pursue their academic goals and advance in their careers by removing barriers to education. The best part of her experience? "My 11-year-old daughter wants to be a software engineer and my teenage son wants to design lifesaving equipment for first responders," she said. "I am thankful to be that first link in our chain of future engineers." February is Black History Month, and the Medtronic African Descent Network is celebrating with the theme Ubuntu meaning, "I am because we are." It is a collection of values and practices that people of African origin view as making people authentic human beings. Read more stories of how Medtronic is driving impact year-round in the Global Inclusion, Diversity & Equity annual report. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Medtronic on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Medtronic Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/medtronic Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Medtronic View the original press release on accesswire.com BLACK RIVER-MATHESON, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Following last weeks trespassing notice against striking Black River-Matheson municipal workers, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) is challenging the effort to criminalize workers, according to the union. These courageous CUPE Local 1490 members are engaged in a legal strike and theyre making a legitimate call for better wages for workers who deliver important services, said Mark Hancock, National President of CUPE. I know that every single one of the 740,000 members of CUPE across this country would be outraged to hear that the charter-protected act of picketing is being attacked by the Township. Workers deserve to have their voices heard and were here to let Black River-Matheson, and anyone else who even considers such limits to the freedom of expression, know that this will not stand. On February 15, the Township issued a trespass notice excluding the 14 striking members of CUPE Local 1490 from three municipal locations. Additionally, and very concerningly according to the union, the notice also excludes members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees and employees from the Canadian Union of Public Employees. We got our legal advice and weve already made the decision that CUPE will challenge this improper and indefensible move; challenge the trespass notice by supplementing our existing Unfair Labour Practice complaint; and we intend to challenge the notice before the Superior Court, said Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario. Local 1490 knows we have their back, and this Township will know that what theyre doing wont stand. The township also doesnt appear to have thought this through either that, or it doesnt mind that it is putting resident at risk. This notice means a paramedic whos a CUPE member and a member of the community could be charged for taking an emergency call at the arena, said Hahn. Does the Township really intend to charge the CUPE Paramedics called for an emergency or the Public Health Inspectors coming into the area? For the safety of Black River-Matheson residents, theres no way we can just let this happen without the full force of our opposition. lf/cope491 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221665408/en/ Daniel Tseghay | Communications Representative, CUPE [email protected] | 647-220-9739 Source: Canadian Union of Public Employees Broadbent, HIV-positive since birth, partnered with AHF on several AIDS advocacy and awareness campaigns FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) mourns the death of lifelong AIDS activist Hydeia Broadbent who passed away in her sleep yesterday at the age of 39. Broadbent, who was HIV-positive since birth, first came to national prominence 1996 when she appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show and other national news and talk programs at the age of 11 to talk about her life living with AIDS. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221195521/en/ Lifelong AIDS activist Hydeia Broadbent, far right, rode on AHFs award-winning 2013 Tournament of Roses parade float titled The Global Face of AIDS, on which she represented North American individuals living with AIDS. (Photo: Business Wire) Broadbent continued her fierce and outspoken advocacy throughout her youth and adulthood. Over the years, Broadbent partnered with AHF on several AIDS advocacy and awareness campaigns, including riding on AHFs award-winning 2013 Tournament of Roses parade float titled The Global Face of AIDS on which she represented North American individuals living with AIDS. Broadbent also appeared in AHFs God Loves Me billboard campaign, featuring people living with HIV and the simple but profound tag line. AHFs Las Vegas Healthcare Centers Opening, 2013: Hydeia Broadbent attended the opening ceremony of AHF's first Las Vegas Healthcare Centers. Being from the state of Nevada herself, Hydeia made a special appearance at the ribbon cutting. Hydeia Broadbent attended the opening ceremony of AHF's first Las Vegas Healthcare Centers. Being from the state of Nevada herself, Hydeia made a special appearance at the ribbon cutting. AHFs AIDS is a Civil Rights Issue campaign, Los Angeles 2014: Hydeia Broadbent spoke at AHF's third community forum in a nationwide series of "AIDS is a Public Health Issue" at the Holman United Methodist Church in Los Angeles. Hydeia Broadbent spoke at AHF's third community forum in a nationwide series of "AIDS is a Public Health Issue" at the Holman United Methodist Church in Los Angeles. AHFs AIDS is a Civil Rights Issue campaign, Selma 2015: During the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March, Hydeia Broadbent joined Rev. Al Sharpton, Cynthia Davis, and Gabriel Maldonado to speak on a panel at Selma University for "AIDS is a Civil Rights Issue: An Evening of Action." AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the worlds largest HIV/AIDS healthcare organization, provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to more than 1.9 million individuals across 45 countries, including the U.S. and in Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region, and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, visit us online at AIDShealth.org, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, and subscribe to our AHFter Hours podcast. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221195521/en/ Ged Kenslea, AHF Sr. Comms Dir. (323) 791-5526 [email protected] W. Imara Canady, AHF National Communications Director Mobile: (770) 940-6555 Email: [email protected] Source: AIDS Healthcare Foundation PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: Axway (Paris: AXW) today announces entering into exclusive discussions regarding the potential acquisition of most of Sopra Banking Software (SBS) activities, which are currently part of Sopra Steria Group. This acquisition would fit perfectly Axways medium-term strategic roadmap, as outlined by the company over the last few years, creating a new enterprise software house with critical scale. Axway is constantly analyzing the different strategic options open to the company to ensure the success of its growth and profitability roadmap. In this respect, the acquisition of most of SBS activities would represent a unique opportunity for Axway to expand its product portfolio and continue its development by capitalizing on its recent performance. SBS, a recognized provider of banking and financial software, would benefit from the scale and experience of a global software structure that has already transitioned to a subscription-based business model. Axway and SBS already share a large part of their DNA. Both companies were born within Sopra Steria Group and have a common set of values, built around an independent enterprise project and a strong commitment to sustainable value creation for their stakeholders. Many mutual customers testify, through their loyalty, to the solidity of this relationship. Axway is also an OEM partner of SBS through its API Management offering, and has for many years enriched the functionalities of SBS applications with its integration solutions. If completed, the combination would give rise to a new enterprise software house with critical scale, able to meet banking application and integration needs with increased firepower and visibility thanks to the expertise of around 5,000 employees worldwide. The SBS activities concerned by the operation generated revenue of around 340m in 2023, representing around 80% of the subsidiary's total revenue. The combined entity would achieve revenue of around 650m, well beyond Axway's medium-term ambition as the company will be more than doubling its current revenue. Axway would acquire the SBS activities concerned by the operation for an enterprise value of 330m. This value is subject to confirmatory due diligence and will be reviewed by an independent expert (Cabinet Finexsi1). Axway intends to finance the contemplated transaction through the combination of a c.130m capital increase with preferential subscription rights2 and new debt facilities for the balance, for which Axway has received a comfort letter from Societe Generale and Groupe Credit Agricole, two of its relationship banks. As part of the contemplated transaction, in order to secure its financing and guarantee the long-term independence of the new combined entity, Sopra GMT, which is the controlling shareholder of Axway, has informed the company of its intention to: - Acquire from Sopra Steria Group, as part of a global and indivisible transaction, a block of c.3.6m Axway shares, representing c.16.7% of Axways capital, at a price per Axway share equal to 26.5, and all of Sopra Steria Groups residual preferential subscription rights; - Subscribe to Axway's capital increase on an irreducible basis to the extent of its rights and those acquired from Sopra Steria Group, representing approximately 53% of the planned capital increase; - Secure the remainder of the rights issue by subscribing any shares that would remain unsubscribed at the end of the allocation process. It is specified that the financing of Sopra GMT undertakings as described above will be carried out with the support of One Equity Partners, which intends to become a minority shareholder of Sopra GMT, advanced discussions with a view to concluding a binding agreement are underway. Sopra Steria granted exclusive rights to Axway and Sopra GMT to negotiate the envisaged transactions. Conditions to reaching binding agreements relating to the envisaged transactions and, subsequently, for the completion of these transactions, include, inter alia, satisfactory confirmatory due diligence, the implementation of the information and consultation procedure with the employee representative bodies of the different entities involved in the transactions, the obtaining of the necessary regulatory approvals, the approval of the Boards of Directors of Sopra GMT, Sopra Steria and Axway on the basis of satisfactory reports from independent experts on the contemplated valuation of SBS and Axway, the satisfactory negotiation of the transaction documents, the obtaining of waivers from the AMF concerning the filing of a mandatory tender offer on Sopra Steria and on Axway3, as well as the AMF approval of the prospectus to be submitted by Axway in connection with the aforementioned capital increase. The objective is to close these operations before the end of Q2 2024 or, at the latest, during Q3 2024. Pierre Pasquier, Chairman of Axway, Sopra Steria and Sopra GMT, declared: "Axway's proposed acquisition of most of SBS's activities represents an undeniable strategic opportunity for both companies. Together, they would consolidate values, expertise and organizations that already have a lot in common, and would mutually benefit from each other. The creation of this strong critically-sized enterprise software house would support an independent and successful entrepreneurial project over the long term. Furthermore, by welcoming One Equity Partners to Sopra GMT's capital, we will be in a better position, through our role as reference shareholder, to support the combined entity in its future external growth objectives. In addition to the fact that Sopra Steria would retain a significant stake in Axway's capital, all the operations envisaged would significantly strengthen the strategic partnership between the two Groups, particularly in financial services, and more generally in Europe, where they share a large portfolio of customers." Axway will provide further information to the financial community at its 2023 annual results presentation meetings taking place today, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. The virtual conference organized by the company on this occasion and its replay will be accessible here. Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank is acting as financial advisor to Axway. Societe Generale is acting as financial advisor to Sopra Steria Group. Messier & Associes is acting as financial advisor to Sopra GMT. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements that may be subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning Axways growth and profitability. Activity during the year and/or actual results may differ from those described in this document as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers, AMF) on March 24, 2023. The distribution of this document in certain countries may be subject to prevailing laws and regulations. Persons present in these countries and in which this document is disseminated, published, or distributed, should obtain information about such restrictions, and comply with them. About Sopra Banking Software Sopra Banking Software (SBS) is a global financial technology company thats helping banks and the financial services industry to reimagine how to operate in an increasingly digital world. SBS is a trusted partner of more than 650 financial institutions and large-scale lenders in 80 countries worldwide. Its cloud platform offers clients a composable architecture to digitize operations, ranging from banking, lending, compliance, to payments, and consumer and asset finance. SBS is recognized as a Top 10 European Fintech company by IDC and as a leader in Omdias Universe: Digital Banking Platforms. About Axway Axway enables enterprises to securely open everything by integrating and moving data across a complex world of new and old technologies. Axways API-driven B2B integration and MFT software, refined over 20 years, complements Axway Amplify, an open API management platform that makes APIs easier to discover and reuse across multiple teams, vendors, and cloud environments. Axway has helped over 11,000 businesses unlock the full value of their existing digital ecosystems to create brilliant experiences, innovate new services, and reach new markets. Learn more at axway.com 1 Subject to the right of objection of the Autorite des marches financiers, as provided for in Article 261-1-1 of its general regulation. 2 The subscription price per new Axway share will be determined at the time of launch of the rights issue, according to standard market practice, and will include a customary discount to the Theoretical Ex-Rights Price (TERP). Taking into account the discount to TERP, the subscription price will be not higher than 26.5. 3 One Equity Partners would, as a result of its acquisition of a stake in Sopra GMT, indirectly in concert, exceeds the thresholds of 30% of Sopra Steria's voting rights and 30% of Axway' share capital and voting rights. In connection with this acquisition, it will be asked to the AMF to grant waivers to the mandatory filing of a tender offer on Sopra Steria and on Axway on the basis of Articles 234-7, 1 and 234-7, 2 of the AMF's general regulation. Sopra GMT, individually, (i) would, as a result of the acquisition of Axway shares from Sopra Steria, exceed the thresholds of 30% of Axway' share capital and voting rights and (ii) would, as a result of its participation in Axway's capital increase, increase its stake in Axway' share capital and voting rights by more than 1% within a period of less than twelve consecutive months; a waiver to the mandatory filing of a tender offer on Axway will also be requested from the AMF on the basis of article 234-9, 6 of the AMF's general regulation. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221819993/en/ Investor Relations: Arthur Carli +33 (0)1 47 17 24 65 [email protected] Source: Axway Annual revenue of 319.0m in 2023, with organic growth of 5.8% compared to 2022 Solid ARR growth up 6.6% vs. end 2022, reaching 228.7m Margin on operating activities up 500 basis points year-on-year to 19.7% of revenue, or 62.8m Progressive increase in free cash flow, in line with forecasts, representing 6% of revenue over the year PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: Axway Software's (Paris: AXW) Board of Directors today conducted an in-depth review of the consolidated and annual financial statements1 for the year ended December 31, 2023. As a consequence, Axways management team announces: Axway Software: 2023 Full-year results Key income statement items* 2023 2022 (m) (% Rev) (m) (% Rev) Revenue 319.0 314.0 Organic growth + 5.8% Growth at constant exchange rates + 3.0% Total growth + 1.6% Profit on Operating Activities 62.8 19.7% 46.3 14.7% Profit from Recurring Operations 55.4 17.4% 37.4 11.9% Operating Profit 47.6 14.9% -46.4 -14.8% Net Profit attributable to the Group 35.8 11.2% -40.0 -12.8% Basic earnings per share (in ) 1.71 -1.85 * Alternative performance measures are defined in the glossary at the end of this document Patrick Donovan, Chief Executive Officer, declared: "For Axway, 2023 marked the conclusion of a strategic plan that has focused the efforts of our teams over the last 3 years. Today, I can proudly say that together we have been successful in Axway's development over this period. This positive dynamic is the fruit of several fundamental evolutions. We have built a high-performance, subscription-based business model focused on our main product lines. Around our products, we have put in place an aligned organization, by product and by region, which has not only improved customer satisfaction, but also strengthened the engagement of our employees. These elements are reflected in a significant improvement in our results, which not only exceed our commitments, but above all enable us to project ourselves towards the next stage of our enterprise project, supported by a strong financial situation. Although the comparison basis of Q4 2022 was not matched in Q4 2023, the company exceeded its internal forecasts at the end of the year. Bookings, in particular of Customer Managed subscription contracts, were higher than anticipated and accelerated our revenue recognition. While this accounting effect turned out to be favorable in 2023, on a like-for-like basis, Axway's normative performance projections remain unchanged." Comments on business activity in 2023 In 2023, in a market that is steadily accelerating towards the cloud, Axway has taken advantage of its renewed business model to consolidate its position as a leading publisher in the management of critical data flows. The company has continued to offer large enterprises high-performance, secure software solutions capable of supporting their development over the long term. Axway's year was punctuated by several highlights, including : - A new revenue and profitability high for the company, which for the year benefited from a record level of customer satisfaction, with a Net Promoter Score of 37, compared with 35 at the end of the prior year. This performance is a direct result of the day-to-day commitment of Axway's employees who, in a context of major organizational evolution, have been focusing for several years on continuous improvement of customer experience with Axways products and services. - The maximization of customer use of Axway's products and the extension of contract durations were confirmed. These trends perfectly reflect the consistency of the matrix structure that the company has adopted, with management by product and by geography. Over the year, the total value of bookings increased by 5.1% compared with 2022, while more than 100 new customers chose Axway to accompany them in their digital transformation projects. - Axway's products and vision in its different technology markets have once again been awarded in 2023. For the 8th time in its history, Axway has been recognized among the world leaders in the API Management market in the 2023 edition of the Gartner Magic Quadrant for API Management. In parallel, the API Management, B2B Integration and MFT offerings, which make up 3 of Axway's 4 main product lines, were each named leaders in their respective categories in the Winter 2024 reports of the G2 global evaluation platform for enterprise solutions. - After refocusing its product portfolio in 2022 by disengaging from activities that were no longer aligned with its growth and profitability objectives, Axway adopted a more offensive strategy in 2023 by consolidating 2 new companies within its scope. In late March, Axway acquired Belgian company AdValvas, a European expert in electronic invoicing processes, whose offerings immediately strengthened the B2B product line. Over a 9-month period, the order book grew steadily, reflecting strong interest in certified expertise in the PEPPOL network. Then, in mid-October, Axway finalized the acquisition of French company Cycom Finances and its accounting mapping solution, PaE. This acquisition, which complements Axway's Financial Accounting Hub (AFAH) offering, led to the establishment of a strategic partnership with KPMG in France, and generated, just a few weeks after its completion, a first significant signature with a leading European banking institution. At a time when Axway has set itself ambitious external growth targets for the coming years, the company's objective is to maintain an agile portfolio of high-performance products, capable of keeping pace with the rapid evolution of its industry. Comments on operational performance in 2023 In 2023, Axway's revenue totaled 319.0m, up 5.8% organically and 1.6% in total. Changes in the consolidation scope, mainly due to the rationalization of the product portfolio in 2022, had a negative impact of 8.2m for the year. Currency fluctuations, notably the depreciation of the US dollar against the euro, also had a negative impact of 4.4m on full-year revenue. Profit on operating activity rose once again, reaching 62.8m for the year, or 19.7% of revenues, compared with 14.7% in 2022. Axway Software: Revenue by business line Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Restated* 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 8.8 10.2 11.6 - 23.8% - 13.7% Subscription 186.6 146.5 154.0 + 21.2% + 27.4% Maintenance 87.0 107.9 111.2 - 21.7% - 19.4% Services 36.5 36.8 37.3 - 2.1% - 0.6% Axway Software 319.0 301.4 314.0 + 1.6% + 5.8% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates License activity revenue totaled 8.8m for the year, down 13.7% organically. In line with expectations, after several years of contraction linked to the rise of subscription-based offers, license sales gradually stabilized during the year, and are now mainly driven by a specialized product. It is reported that revenue returned to growth in Q3 and Q4, although this was not enough to offset the decline recorded in H1. Nevertheless, the trend reversal observed points to a more balanced 2024 outlook. The Subscription activity maintained a very solid momentum throughout 2023. With organic growth of over 50% in the first 9 months of the year, the activity was faced with a record comparison basis at the end of the year. This did not prevent further organic growth of 1.8% in Q4 2023, enabling the activity to achieve annual revenue of 186.6m, up 27.4% on 2022. Several major Customer Managed signatures enabled the company to exceed its revenue forecast in year-end. For the full year, upfront revenue from Customer Managed subscription contracts amounted to 93.4m, compared with 78.7m in 2022. The annual value of new subscription contracts (ACV) signed reached 49.9m in 2023, an increase of 1.4%. Maintenance revenue reached 87.0m in 2023, down 21.7% overall and 19.4% organically. While the contract renewal rate reached 94%, the decline in activity was mainly due to lower license sales and the continued migration of customers to subscription-based offers. At the end of December 2023, Axway's ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) which combines recurring revenues from all active Maintenance and Subscription contracts, including, where applicable, upfront subscription revenue recalculated monthly, was 228.7m, up 6.6%2 at constant scope and exchange rates. In addition, revenue from renewable contracts reached 86% of total revenue in 2023. The Services activity was virtually stable compared with the previous year, with annual revenue of 36.5m (-0.6%). The activity was mainly supported by several major MFT migration projects across Europe. As expected, Services are now stabilizing at between 10 and 15% of Axway's total revenue. Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Restated* 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 99.9 90.9 91.6 + 9.0% + 9.9% Rest of Europe 76.1 67.8 68.4 + 11.2% + 12.1% Americas 126.4 123.1 133.3 - 5.1% + 2.7% Asia/Pacific 16.6 19.6 20.8 - 20.0% - 15.3% Axway Software 319.0 301.4 314.0 + 1.6% + 5.8% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates In France, Axway achieved revenue of 99.9m in 2023 thanks to dynamic organic growth of 9.9%. In the country, activity was driven by the acceleration of migrations to subscription-based offers, and by a significant increase in usage across all product lines in the portfolio. Proof of the excellent sales momentum, the value of bookings from new customers rose by 43% over the year. The Rest of Europe region also reported a marked increase in revenue in 2023. Sales reached 76.1m, up 12.1% on the previous year. This good performance was made possible by growth in the region's largest countries, particularly Germany, where the new organization and focus on sales continue to produce excellent results. The Americas (USA & Latin America) recorded revenue of 126.4m in 2023, representing 40% of Axway's total annual revenue. In the region, business grew organically by 2.7% over the year. While in North America, Axway once again benefited from its leadership in the MFT market to strengthen its positions against its main competitors, in Latin America the Amplify API management offering underpinned performance. In Asia/Pacific, Axway posted annual revenue of 16.6m, down 15.3% organically. In contrast to the previous year, in 2023 customers in the region favored Axway Managed subscription contracts, which represented 55% of bookings. Although these contracts do not generate immediate revenue recognition, they do generate income throughout their term. Comments on 2023 net profit Profit from recurring operations was 55.4m in 2023, or 17.4% of revenue, compared to 11.9% the previous year. It includes amortization of allocated intangible assets of 3.2m and a share-based payment expense of 4.2m. Operating profit for the year was 47.6m, or 14.9% of revenue. Net profit for the year was 35.8m, representing 11.2% of revenue. Basic earnings per share were 1.71. Financial position at December 31, 2023 At December 31, 2023, Axway's financial position was solid, with cash of 16.7m and bank debt of 92.3m. Free cash flow was 18.8m in 2023, compared to 2.2m a year earlier. As anticipated, the accumulation of annually-billed subscription contracts improved net cash flow from operating activities. Shareholders' equity stood at 346.3m at December 31, 2023, compared to 327.8m at the end of 2022. Change in the workforce At December 31, 2023, Axway had 1,465 employees compared to 1,525 at December 31, 2022. Proposed dividend for fiscal year 2023 Axway's Board of Directors will not propose the payment of a dividend in respect of the 2023 financial year. 2024 Targets For 2024, Axway anticipates organic growth of between 1% and 3%, and a profit on operating activity of around 20% of revenue. Today, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 6.30 p.m. (UTC+1): 2023 Full-Year Results Virtual Analyst Conference Virtual Conference Registration: Click here Or join by phone by dialing one of the numbers below: France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66 USA: +1 786 697 3501 International: +44 (0) 33 0551 0200 Please note that the meeting will be held in English. Financial calendar Monday, March 25, 2024: Filing of the 2023 Universal Registration Document Thursday, April 25, 2024, before market opening: Publication of Q1 2024 Revenue Thursday, May 16, 2024, 2:30 p.m. (UTC+2): Annual Shareholders' Meeting Tuesday, July 23, 2024, after market closing: Publication of 2023 Half-Year Results Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 6:30 p.m. (UTC+2): 2023 Half-Year Results Virtual Analyst Conference Thursday, October 24, 2024, before market opening: Publication of Q3 2024 Revenue Glossary & Alternative performance measures ACV: Annual Contract Value Annual contract value of a subscription agreement. ARR: Annual Recurring Revenue Expected annual billing amounts from all active maintenance and subscription agreements. Employee Engagement Score: Measurement of employee engagement through an independent annual survey. Growth at constant exchange rates: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period restated for exchange rate impacts. NPS: Net Promoter Score Customer satisfaction and recommendation indicator for a company. Organic growth: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period, restated for consolidation scope and exchange rate impacts. Profit on operating activities: Profit from recurring operations adjusted for the non-cash share-based payment expense, as well as the amortization of allocated intangible assets. Restated revenue: Revenue for the prior year, adjusted for the consolidation scope and exchange rates of the current year. TCV: Total Contract Value Full contracted value of a subscription agreement over the contract term. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements that may be subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning Axways growth and profitability, notably in the event of future acquisitions. Axway highlights that signature of contracts, which represent investments for customers, are more significant in the second half of the year and may therefore have a more or less favorable impact on full-year performance. In addition, Axway notes that potential acquisition(s) could also impact this financial data. Furthermore, activity during the year and/or actual results may differ from those described in this document as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers, AMF) on March 24, 2023. The distribution of this document in certain countries may be subject to prevailing laws and regulations. Natural persons present in these countries and in which this document is disseminated, published, or distributed, should obtain information about such restrictions, and comply with them. About Axway Axway enables enterprises to securely open everything by integrating and moving data across a complex world of new and old technologies. Axways API-driven B2B integration and MFT software, refined over 20 years, complements Axway Amplify, an open API management platform that makes APIs easier to discover and reuse across multiple teams, vendors, and cloud environments. Axway has helped over 11,000 businesses unlock the full value of their existing digital ecosystems to create brilliant experiences, innovate new services, and reach new markets. Learn more at axway.com Appendices (1/5) Axway Software: Revenue by business line 1st Quarter 2023 (m) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Restated* Q1 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 2.1 3.5 3.7 -42.6% -39.5% Subscription 37.8 24.7 26.4 43.1% 53.1% Maintenance 22.5 27.9 27.9 -19.5% -19.6% Services 9.5 9.0 9.0 6.1% 5.4% Axway Software 71.8 65.1 66.9 7.3% 10.3% 2nd Quarter 2023 (m) Q2 2023 Q2 2022 Restated* Q2 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 0.9 1.9 2.6 -66.6% -54.8% Subscription 40.9 27.6 29.5 38.7% 48.2% Maintenance 22.1 27.2 28.1 -21.3% -18.6% Services 9.7 9.1 9.3 4.5% 6.0% Axway Software 73.6 65.9 69.5 5.9% 11.7% 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Restated* Q3 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 2.7 1.9 2.3 16.2% 41.8% Subscription 37.0 24.6 27.4 35.2% 50.7% Maintenance 21.1 26.6 28.3 -25.3% -20.7% Services 8.6 9.2 9.6 -10.4% -7.2% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% 4th Quarter 2023 (m) Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Restated* Q4 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth License 3.2 2.9 3.0 + 6.6% + 9.1% Subscription 71.0 69.7 70.7 + 0.3% + 1.8% Maintenance 21.3 26.1 26.9 - 20.8% - 18.5% Services 8.8 9.4 9.5 - 7.9% - 6.5% Axway Software 104.2 108.1 110.1 - 5.4% - 3.6% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Appendices (2/5) Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area 1st Quarter 2023 (m) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Restated* Q1 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 24.7 17.9 18.1 36.2% 38.3% Rest of Europe 13.5 12.6 13.2 1.7% 6.9% Americas 30.9 29.3 30.3 1.9% 5.2% Asia/Pacific 2.8 5.3 5.3 -46.8% -47.4% Axway Software 71.8 65.1 66.9 7.3% 10.3% 2nd Quarter 2023 (m) Q2 2023 Q2 2022 Restated* Q2 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 20.8 19.4 19.6 6.0% 7.2% Rest of Europe 22.2 14.0 14.0 58.7% 58.8% Americas 26.4 27.4 30.5 -13.6% -3.6% Asia/Pacific 4.3 5.2 5.4 -20.7% -17.3% Axway Software 73.6 65.9 69.5 5.9% 11.7% 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Restated* Q3 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 19.7 14.8 15.1 30.4% 32.4% Rest of Europe 15.7 14.6 14.7 7.0% 7.9% Americas 29.8 28.7 32.8 -9.1% 4.0% Asia/Pacific 4.2 4.2 5.0 -15.9% -0.7% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% 4th Quarter 2023 (m) Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Restated* Q4 2022 Reported Total Growth Organic Growth France 34.7 38.8 38.8 - 10.4% - 10.4% Rest of Europe 24.7 26.7 26.5 - 6.8% - 7.5% Americas 39.3 37.7 39.6 - 0.8% + 4.4% Asia/Pacific 5.3 4.9 5.1 + 4.7% + 9.4% Axway Software 104.2 108.1 110.1 - 5.4% - 3.6% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Appendices (3/5) Axway Software : Consolidated Income Statement Full-year 2023 2023 2022 2021 m % Rev. m % Rev. m % Rev. Revenue 319.0 314.0 285.5 of which License 8.8 11.6 18.6 of which Subscription 186.6 154.0 114.2 of which Maintenance 87.0 111.2 119.0 Sub-total Products 282.4 276.7 251.7 Services 36.5 37.3 33.8 Cost of sales 87.2 91.4 83.3 of which License and Maintenance 24.1 26.4 24.6 of which Subscription 28.2 29.4 27.0 of which Services 34.9 35.6 31.7 Gross profit 231.7 72.7% 222.6 70.9% 202.3 70.8% Operating expenses 168.9 176.4 169.4 of which Sales and marketing 81.6 93.2 89.0 of which Research and development 60.1 57.3 55.3 of which General and administrative 27.2 25.9 25.0 Profit on operating activities 62.8 19.7% 46.3 14.7% 32.9 11.5% Stock option expense -4.2 -3.4 -4.4 Amortization of intangible assets -3.2 -5.5 -8.6 Profit from recurring operations 55.4 17.4% 37.4 11.9% 19.9 7.0% Other income and expenses -7.9 -83.8 -2.7 Operating profit 47.6 14.9% -46.4 -14.8% 17.3 6.1% Cost of net financial debt -4.6 -2.1 -1.3 Other financial revenues and expenses -0.2 1.0 0.5 Income taxes -7.0 7.4 -6.9 Net profit 35.8 11.2% -40.0 -12.8% 9.6 3.4% Basic earnings per share (in ) 1.71 -1.85 0.45 Appendices (4/5) Axway Software: Simplified Balance Sheet Full-year 2023 31/12/2023 31/12/2022 31/12/2021 (m) (m) (m) Assets Goodwill 302.1 297.8 348.3 Intangible assets 5.1 8.7 15.1 Property, plant and equipment 9.3 12.5 14.3 Lease right-of-use assets 17.8 20.1 23.5 Other non-current assets 33.2 34.9 23.4 Non-current assets 367.6 374.0 424.6 Trade receivables 178.0 148.1 105.1 Other current assets 32.3 30.6 27.8 Cash and cash equivalents 16.7 18.3 25.4 Current assets 227.0 197.1 158.3 Total Assets 594.6 571.1 582.9 Equity and Liabilities Share capital 43.3 43.3 43.3 Reserves and net profit 303.0 284.5 328.9 Total Equity 346.3 327.8 372.2 Financial debt - long-term portion 88.0 84.6 60.1 Lease liabilities - long-term portion 19.7 23.5 27.2 Other non-current liabilities 16.5 11.7 13.6 Non-current liabilities 124.2 119.8 100.9 Financial debt - short-term portion 4.3 3.2 1.7 Lease liabilities - short-term portion 4.0 5.8 6.2 Deferred Revenues 49.1 55.6 55.8 Other current liabilities 66.7 58.9 46.0 Current liabilities 124.1 123.5 109.8 Total Liabilities 248.3 243.3 210.7 Total Equity and Liabilities 594.6 571.1 582.9 Appendices (5/5) Axway Software: Cash Flow Statement Full-year 2023 2023 2022 2021 (m) (m) (m) Net profit for the period 35.8 -40.0 9.6 Net charges to amortization, depreciation and provisions 19.3 16.5 20.2 Other income and expense items 1.4 85.3 3.9 Cash from operations after cost of net debt and tax 56.6 61.8 33.7 Change in operating working capital requirements (incl. employee benefits liability) -32.9 -41.0 -26.2 Cost of net financial debt 4.6 2.1 1.3 Income tax paid net of accrual 3.9 -10.0 4.1 Net cash from operating activities 32.1 13.0 12.9 Net cash used in investing activities -12.6 -11.1 -2.8 Proceeds from the exercise of stock options - - 2.0 Purchases and proceeds from disposal of treasury shares -4.8 -13.7 -9.5 Dividends paid -8.4 -8.5 -8.6 Change in loans 3.4 20.7 21.5 Change in lease liabilities -7.2 -7.2 -6.7 Net interest paid -3.7 -1.2 -0.6 Other flows -0.4 0.6 0.1 Net cash from (used in) financing activities -21.1 -9.4 -1.7 Effect of foreign exchange rate changes -0.2 0.7 0.7 Net change in cash and cash equivalents -1.8 -6.9 9.0 Opening cash position 18.3 25.2 16.2 Closing cash position 16.5 18.3 25.2 Axway Software: Impact on revenue of changes in scope and exchange rates Full-year 2023 (m) 2023 2022 Growth Revenue 319.0 314.0 + 1.6% Changes in exchange rates -4.4 Revenue at constant exchange rates 319.0 309.6 + 3.0% Changes in scope -8.2 Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates 319.0 301.4 + 5.8% Axway Software: Changes in exchange rates Full-year 2023 For 1 Average rate 2023 Average rate 2022 Change US Dollar 1.081 1.053 - 2.6% ______________________________ 1 Audit procedures have been carried out on the financial statements. The Statutory Auditors report is in the process of being issued. 2 Axway's ARR to end 2022 has been restated to take account of a change in methodology, and thus amounts to 214.5m. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221248504/en/ Investor Relations: Arthur Carli +33 (0)1 47 17 24 65 [email protected] Source: Axway Trammell Crow Company Remains Top Pure Development Company DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE: CBRE) has been named the top global brand in commercial real estate by The Lipsey Company for the 23rd consecutive year. CBREs development services subsidiary, Trammell Crow Company, was the top-ranked pure development company for the sixth consecutive year. A training and professional development firm specializing in commercial real estate, Lipsey has surveyed commercial real estate professionals on their perceptions of the industrys leading brands since 2002. CBRE has been ranked number one every year that Lipsey has conducted its survey of property owners, investors, lenders, occupiers, brokers and property managers. CBRE is filled with high-performing people who do impactful work, said Bob Sulentic, the companys chair and chief executive officer. Their shared commitment to excellence and thoughtful collaboration is why we are known for delivering great client outcomes and consistently garner accolades from our industry peers. About CBRE CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE: CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the worlds largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2023 revenue). The company has more than 130,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com. We routinely post important information on our website, including corporate and investor presentations and financial information. We intend to use our website as a means of disclosing material, non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Such disclosures will be included in the Investor Relations section of our website at https://ir.cbre.com. Accordingly, investors should monitor such portion of our website, in addition to following our press releases, Securities and Exchange Commission filings and public conference calls and webcasts. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221315376/en/ Steve Iaco - Media 212.984.6535 [email protected] Brad Burke - Investors 214.863.3100 [email protected] Source: CBRE Group, Inc. Rampant Court Malfeasance Weakens Justice, Threatens DE Economy BadFellas Campaign Includes Billboard Truck, Direct Mail, and Full-Page Print Advertisement Billboard Truck Will Circle Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance Elite Legal Insiders Event WILMINGTON, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, Citizens for Judicial Fairness launched a new campaign, BadFellas, to expose Delaware Chancery Court injustices ahead of a University of Delaware Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance event featuring former Chancery Court Chancellor Andre Bouchard. The campaign will call out Bouchard, as well as former Supreme Court Chief Justice Leo Strine and current Chancery Court Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick, as BadFellas who are rigging Delawares court system and threatening the state's economy by driving businesses away from DE to incorporate in other states. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221030777/en/ Citizens for Judicial Fairness "BadFellas" advertisement (Photo: Citizens for Judicial Fairness) The campaign includes a billboard truck that will circle todays event, a piece of direct mail sent to over 10,000 New Castle County residents, and a full-page print ad in the Delaware News Journal to run later in the week. Citizens for Judicial Fairness released the following statement about the campaign, The Chancery Courts unchecked corruption and naked self-dealing is not just a perverse abuse of justice, its metastasized into an existential threat to the states economy as big companies incorporate elsewhere to escape the fraud and abuse. The BadFellas who run Delaware have spent years putting themselves and their cronies first at the expense of Delaware communities. Legal insiders like Andre Bouchard, Leo Strine, and current Chancery Court Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick seem committed to the infamous line from Goodfellas F*** You, Pay Me no matter what it means for Delawareans. The only way to staunch the bleeding is to enact a popular and comprehensive court reform package that will bring urgently needed diversity, transparency, accountability and fairness to our Judiciary. With a new vacancy coming open on the Chancery Court, we are committed to doing our utmost in the coming months to have a justice of color appointed to the court while continuing our fight for reform and transparency throughout the states judicial system. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221030777/en/ [email protected] Source: Citizens for Judicial Fairness 40 Act Fund provides investors access to private equity secondaries. Fund underscores Collers commitment to expanding access to private markets. NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Coller Capital, the world's largest independent investor dedicated exclusively to private market secondaries, today announced the upcoming launch of the Coller Secondaries Private Equity Opportunities Fund ("C-SPEF"), a tender offer fund specifically designed for accredited high-net-worth investors. This private equity secondaries-only offering unlocks a new avenue for individuals to invest in private markets, providing easy access to the asset class through a diversified, institutional-quality portfolio. C-SPEF seeks to deliver a powerful combination of attractive absolute and risk-adjusted returns, diversification, and the opportunity for more liquidity than traditional private equity funds. Available to both U.S. taxable and tax-exempt investors, the fund offers monthly subscriptions and quarterly redemptions, a lower minimum than traditional private market investments, and 1099 tax reporting. C-SPEF does not charge a performance fee and as a benefit to first movers, has waived its management fee for the first year. Coller has a proud history of innovation. We are excited to bring the benefit of over 30 years of experience investing solely in private equity secondaries to a product developed specifically for the high-net-worth market. This dynamic solution will change the way individual investors are able to access the unique benefits of secondaries investments, said Jeremy Coller, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner at Coller Capital. An attractive way for accredited individual investors to build exposure to private markets, secondaries portfolios typically provide access to high-quality general partners GPs and assets that are diversified across company, sector, geography and investment-type. Jake Elmhirst, Partner and Head of Coller Capital Private Wealth Secondaries Solutions added C-SPEF is designed to offer individual investors an easy way to invest in a diversified portfolio of private equity secondaries that has been carefully selected by a manager with a 30-year investment record. Secondaries investing has proven to be an attractive way to access private equity, delivering compelling absolute and risk-adjusted returns across cycles. C-SPEF will be open for investment beginning in April 2024. The Fund is a closed-end tender offer fund registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Securities Act of 1933. About Coller Capital Coller Capital, founded in 1990, is one of the world's leading investors in the secondary market for private assets and widely acknowledged as an innovator in secondaries. The firm provides liquidity solutions to private markets investors worldwide, acquiring interests in private equity, private credit, and other private markets assets. With headquarters in London, and offices in New York, Hong Kong, Beijing, Seoul and Luxembourg, Collers multinational investment team has a truly global reach. In January 2021, the firm closed Coller International Partners VIII, with committed capital (including co-investment vehicles) of just over $9 billion and backing from over 200 of the worlds leading institutional investors. In February 2022, the firm closed Coller Credit Opportunities I, with committed capital (including co-investment vehicles) of c.$1.45 billion and backing from over 40 institutional investors. In March 2023, Coller Capital announced the creation of its global Private Wealth Secondaries Solutions (PWSS) business to provide further access to private capital markets for high-net-worth individuals. For more information on C-SPEF and Coller Capital, please visit https://pwss.collercapital.com/ An investment in a U.S. Registered Investment Company (RIC) entails risks, in particular the risk of an investor losing their invested capital. Prospective investors should conduct independent due diligence in assessing any investment opportunity. Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of Coller Secondaries Private Equity Opportunities Fund. This and other important information about the Fund are contained in the prospectus. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. Prospectus can be found at: https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001969180/000113322824000414/cspeof-html7152_424b3.htm Potential investors should be aware that an investment in the fund is speculative, involves a high degree of risk, and is suitable only for those investors who have the financial sophistication and expertise to evaluate the merits and risks of an investment in the fund and for which it does not represent a complete investment program. Only investors who can afford a loss of their entire investment should consider an investment. The Fund will make a limited number of investments. Consequently, the aggregate return of the Fund may be substantially adversely affected by the unfavorable performance of even a single investment. Any investment in C-SPEF entails risks, including but not limited to the risk of losing all or part of the amount invested. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and there can be no assurance that C-SPEF will be able to implement its investment strategy or achieve its investment objectives. Interests in the Fund will be highly illiquid and subject to restrictions on transfer. Any tender offer or redemption by the Fund would have to be approved by its board of directors; it should, therefore, not be assumed that any such offer or redemption would happen at a particular time or at all. An investment in the Fund, unlike a traditional listed closed-end fund, should be considered illiquid. An investment in the Fund is appropriate only for investors comfortable with investing in less liquid or illiquid portfolio investments within an illiquid fund. The fund is distributed by Paralel Distributors LLC. Paralel is unaffiliated with Coller Capital. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221262813/en/ Press contact Edelman Smithfield [email protected] Source: Coller Capital Combination of Curio Seeker with Precision Health Data Cloud provides scientists with a secure and scalable solution for managing and sharing high-resolution, spatially resolved gene expression data MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. & PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DNAnexus, Inc., the provider of the Precision Health Data Cloud, and Curio Bioscience today announced a collaboration to streamline and simplify data analysis for high-resolution, whole transcriptome spatial mapping studies. As part of the agreement, Curio Seeker Spatial Mapping Kit customers will be able to use the DNAnexus Precision Health Data Cloud and its intuitive analysis environment to process the unbiased Curio Seeker data sets across different tissue types and species to fuel basic research and accelerate scientific discovery. Curio Seeker is the first high-resolution, whole transcriptome spatial mapping solution that offers the ability to generate molecular images of tissue sections by capturing and mapping the spatial location of RNA molecules using next-generation sequencers. The DNAnexus Precision Health Data Cloud provides customers with a secure, streamlined, and scalable option for managing, analyzing, and sharing large-scale multi-omic data. The combined solution allows researchers to accelerate the understanding of cellular functions in the context of their native environment and gain additional biological insights that are not available from single-cell RNA sequencing approaches. This collaboration with DNAnexus provides our customers with a fully integrated, easy-to-use, and scalable cloud-based environment for accessing and analyzing the rich, whole transcriptome, and high resolution spatial data sets generated by the Curio Seeker workflow, said Christina Fan, PhD, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at Curio Bioscience. The Precision Health Data Cloud streamlines the process for biologists by making primary data analysis easy to initiate without support from bioinformaticians or investment in computing infrastructure. This partnership with DNAnexus aligns with our overall mission to make complex spatial biology measurements more accessible to the research community. Today, DNAnexus has more than 45,000 registered users across 48 countries and actively manages and supports more than 105 petabytes of complex clinical genomic, proteomic, and other multi-omic datasets on behalf of a growing network of collaborators. Its comprehensive cloud platform meets the most rigorous industry standards for data quality, security, privacy, and regulatory compliance. DNAnexus is committed to building a complete ecosystem of forward-thinking technology providers like Curio Bioscience that will shape the future of life science research, said Thomas Laur, CEO at DNAnexus. Customers using the Curio Seeker with our Precision Health Data Cloud will be able to harness the full potential of their high-resolution spatial transcriptomics data to accelerate scientific research and discovery. About Curio Bioscience Curio Bioscience is advancing a new generation of high-precision tools for the life sciences industry. The company has developed innovative spatial biology capabilities to map the whole transcriptome at high resolution using existing sequencing workflows and instrumentation. The founding team has a strong track record of bringing genomic solutions to market. Based in Palo Alto, California, Curio Bioscience is a privately held company. For more information, visit www.curiobioscience.com. About DNAnexus DNAnexus enables biomedical organizations to accelerate scientific discovery and improve patient care with the Precision Health Data Cloud. The company provides scientific innovators and healthcare professionals with the ability to manage, analyze, and collaborate on multi-omic, clinical, and real-world data to unlock insights. DNAnexus actively manages more than 105 petabytes of data on behalf of a growing network of collaborations with leading pharmaceutical, clinical diagnostic, academic research, biobank, and government organizations. Today, more than 45,000 users across 48 countries and over 130 enterprise customers are harnessing the full potential of their data with the scalable and secure Precision Health Data Cloud. DNAnexus is headquartered in Mountain View, Calif. For more information, visit www.dnanexus.com or follow @DNAnexus. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221661788/en/ Andrew Noble 415-722-2129 [email protected] Source: DNAnexus, Inc. ECULLY, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: The Groupe SEB (Paris: SK) aims to build on its expertise in the high-end cooking equipment segment and continue its growth in professional and semi-professional markets. Sofilac is a family-owned French group, majority-held by the members of the Augagneur family. It designs, manufactures and markets cooking equipment for high-end semi-professional (Lacanche brand) and professional (especially with the Charvet brand) customers. Lacanche, a Living Heritage Company, and Charvet offer exceptional, timeless and durable products based on unique know-how. Leveraging its iconic brands, Groupe Sofilac meets the needs of professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts, enabling them to express their talents. This acquisition will enable Groupe SEB to strengthen its presence in the cooking equipment segment by rounding out its existing high-end brand offering (Krampouz, Forge Adour, WMF, All-Clad, and Lagostina). Simultaneously, it will fuel Groupe SEB's ambition to become the reference in professional and semi-professional equipment markets, which are expanding and profitable, with complementary brands, products and distribution channels. This transaction, expected to be completed in April 2024, is conditioned in particular on informing and consulting employee representative bodies within certain Groupe Sofilac companies. LACANCHE, equipment inspired by the kitchens of the highest-ranked chefs Manufactured for several centuries in the Burgundy village of the same name, with its history closely associated with metalwork, Lacanche cooking equipment and ranges honor French culinary tradition. A wide range of options and finishes make each "gastronomic piano" a unique object. True to its original values, this family-owned company combines passion, innovation and savoir-faire. Recognized as a "Living Heritage Company", it pays close attention to the noble materials and components, as well as the quality of its signature enamel shades on its equipment. CHARVET, the "3-star" range Since 1934, Charvet has been designing and manufacturing professional cooking equipment, particularly for the kitchens of top chefs. Numerous Michelin-starred chefs and gourmet establishments in France and around the world are equipped with the brand's pianos: whether it's the kitchen of Michelin-starred Chef David Gallienne at Le Jardin des Plumes in Giverny, France, the kitchen of Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Sale at MIN de Rungis, or Chef Sebastien Lepinoy's Les Amis restaurant in Singapore, awarded 3 Michelin stars and ranked among the 100 best restaurants in the world. Charvet brand is also recognized for the high quality and reliability of its equipment by catering establishments. AMBASSADE DE BOURGOGNE, AIRT and OPENCOOK, excellence from Burgundy Designed and manufactured on the Lacanche site, in the heart of Burgundy, the historic cradle of Groupe SEB, the Ambassade de Bourgogne, Air'T and Open Cook ranges represent French expertise and excellence. Local manufacturing, to which Groupe SEB is firmly committed, is a guarantee of quality, reliability and durability. This diversified brand portfolio covers a complete range of cooking equipment for restaurant professionals, small and mid-sized communities and caterers: from ovens to professional baking and regenerating ovens, not forgetting outdoor cooking equipment. About Groupe Sofilac: - Created at the end of the XVIIIth century in Lacanche (France) - 62m sales in 2023 - Present in more than 45 countries worldwide, 1/3 of sales generated from export markets - 360 employees - Brands: Lacanche, Charvet, Ambassade de Bourgogne, AirT, Open Cook Next key dates 2024 April 25 | after market closes Q1 2024 sales and financial data May 23 | 2:30 p.m. Annual General Meeting July 25 | before market opens H1 2024 sales and results October 24 | after market closes 9-month 2024 sales and financial data Find us on www.groupeseb.com World reference in small domestic equipment and professional coffee machines, Groupe SEB operates with a unique portfolio of 35 top brands including Tefal, Seb, Rowenta, Moulinex, Krups, Lagostina, All-Clad, WMF, Emsa, Supor, marketed through multi-format retailing. Selling nearly 350 million products a year, it deploys a long-term strategy focused on innovation, international development, competitiveness, and client service. Present in over 150 countries, Groupe SEB generated sales of 8 billion in 2023 and has more than 30,000 employees worldwide. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221167461/en/ Investor/Analyst relations Groupe SEB Financial Communication and IR Dept Raphael Hoffstetter Guillaume Baron [email protected] Tel. +33 (0) 4 72 18 16 04 Media Relations Groupe SEB Corporate Communication Dept Cathy Pianon Anissa Djaadi Marie Leroy [email protected] Tel. + 33 (0) 6 33 13 02 00 Tel. + 33 (0) 6 88 20 90 88 Tel. + 33 (0) 6 76 98 87 53 Image Sept Caroline Simon Claire Doligez Isabelle Dunoyer de Segonzac [email protected] Source: Groupe SEB KARLSRUHE, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- German-based joimax, the market leader in technologies and training methods for full-endoscopic and minimally invasive spinal surgery, and distributor Uber Ros S.p.A are excited to announce their new partnership for the Italian market, effective immediately. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221579002/en/ Kick-off meeting and first training session with the Uber Ros team, held February 15-16 at the joimax Karlsruhe headquarters. (Photo: Business Wire) Under this strategic alliance, Uber Ros will be a full sales and service provider of joimax products to surgeons and medical practitioners throughout Italy. The partnership allows both companies to expand the renowned joimax brand via first-rate networks and distribution channels to the Italian health community, ensuring that patients have access to the latest spinal endoscopic technologies. Were looking forward to working with Uber Ros, a strong and well-established partner in Italy, says joimax Founder and CEO Wolfgang Ries. Together, we will continue to provide best-in-class service and grow our presence in the Italian spine community while creating a solid business growth strategy, states Uber Ros President and COO Giorgio Rosati. In addition, the acclaimed joimax training and education program for spine physicians, managed under ESPINEA, the Endoscopic Spine Academy powered by joimax, will be introduced in Italy. Uber Ros and joimax will align all education activities and set-up special workshop programs that offer certified courses to Italian physicians, says ESPINEA Chairman Wolfgang Ries. About Uber Ros S.p.A Uber Ros S.p.A was founded in Rome in 1986 by Dr. Umberto Rosati and his son Giorgio. It is a Medical Devices Distribution Company active in all Italian territories. Uber Ros promotes and sells high-tech medical devices, mainly specialized in Orthopedics, Trauma Surgery, Neurosurgery, Spine, Maxillo-Facial, Head and Neck surgery (ENT-OTO), Wound Care and Vascular surgery. Uber Ros has a sales organization spread throughout Italy, providing customer service 24 hours on any day of the year. The Company collaborates with the world leading Research Centers, and is involved in the most advanced studies on bioengineering, promoting and supporting scientific research in high-tech emerging fields. About joimax Founded in Karlsruhe, Germany in 2001, joimax is the leading developer and marketer of complete systems for full-endoscopic and minimally invasive spinal surgery. With the Endoscopic Surgical Systems TESSYS (transforaminal), iLESSYS (interlaminar) and CESSYS (cervical) for decompression procedures, MultiZYTE for facet and sacroiliac joint pain treatment, EndoLIF and Percusys for minimally invasive endoscopically assisted stabilizations, established systems are provided, addressing a whole range of indications. All methods are supported by the latest generation electronical devices in the all new NAVENTO navigated endoscopic tower. In procedures for herniated discs, stenosis, pain therapy or spinal stabilization treatment, surgeons utilize joimax technologies to operate through small incisions under local, conscious sedation or full anesthesia, via tissue and muscle-sparing corridors, and through natural openings in the spinal canal, e.g., the intervertebral foramen, the so-called Kambin triangle. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221579002/en/ Press Contact Germany joimax GmbH Antje Paulsen [email protected] +49-721-25514-214 Press Contact USA joimax, Inc. Tiffany Tsang [email protected] +1-949-859-3472 Source: joimax HIE to Leverage Mirth Solutions to Give Californians Unprecedented Access to their Health Records REMOTE-FIRST COMPANY/SANTA CRUZ, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- NextGen Healthcare today announced a collaboration with Serving Communities Health Information Organization (SCHIO), one of the oldest and most advanced multi-stakeholder health information exchanges (HIEs) in the country. This alliance will help Californias medical providers to meet 2024 data exchange regulations by using NextGen Healthcares Mirth interoperability solutions, including: Mirth Health Data Hub, a data integration and interoperability platform, and Mirth Connect, an integration engine that enables the seamless exchange of health data between various healthcare systems. The California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) recently introduced its new Data Exchange Framework (DxF), a set of extensive data exchange standards that guarantee California residents access to their medical records at any site of care in the state. With DxF requirements becoming mandatory across California on January 31, 2024, Santa Cruz-based SCHIO is leveraging Mirth Solutions by NextGen Healthcare to help providers navigate the rigorous new data exchange policies. Californias Data Exchange Framework may be new, but SCHIO has been connecting healthcare providers in the state since 1996, said Srinivas (Sri) Velamoor, president and chief operating officer of NextGen Healthcare. This alliance is an extension of our mutual ongoing commitment to deliver meaningful interoperability to healthcare organizations across California and simplify compliance with emerging data exchange and patient data access regulations. Using Mirth Health Data Hub to aggregate clinical data from diverse sources and Mirth Connect to achieve frictionless interoperability, SCHIO reduces the administrative burdens on providers and helps healthcare organizations improve the quality of shared information to address forthcoming DxF requirements. We were proud to be the first entity in the State of California to sign the DxF Data Sharing Agreement, said Daniel (Dan) Chavez, executive director of Serving Communities Health Information Organization. Through our use of Mirth Health Data Hub and Mirth Connect by NextGen Healthcare, we are making a lasting investment in our communities by helping healthcare organizations achieve greater interoperability and deliver an improved patient experience. The collaboration between SCHIO and NextGen Healthcare also supports California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM), an initiative of the California Department of Healthcare Services to standardize and streamline Californians access to physical, dental, behavioral health services, and more. To learn more about how Mirth Health Data Hub and Mirth Connect by NextGen Healthcare are improving data optimization and exchange nationwide, visit NextGen.com. About Serving Communities Health Information Organization (SCHIO) Established in 1996, the Serving Communities Health Information Organization (SCHIO) is one of the oldest and most advanced multi-stakeholder health information exchanges in the country. SCHIO connects more than 100 organizations including primary care and specialist physician groups, hospitals, federally qualified health centers, county clinics, providers of mental health and substance use disorder services, community service providers, national and local reference labs, imaging centers and ancillary providers. Through comprehensive information curation and sharing, SCHIO advances the wellbeing for everyone in the communities it serves. Learn more at www.schio.org. About NextGen Healthcare, Inc. NextGen Healthcare, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative healthcare technology and data solutions. We are reimagining ambulatory healthcare with award-winning EHR, practice management and surround solutions that enable providers to deliver whole-person health and value-based care. Our highly integrated, intelligent, and interoperable solutions increase clinical quality and productivity, enrich the patient experience and drive superior financial performance. We are on a relentless quest to achieve better healthcare outcomes for all. Learn more at nextgen.com, and follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221919576/en/ Media Contact Anjali Bright (731) 234-6422 [email protected] Source: NextGen Healthcare, Inc. LOUISVILLE, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Premier Packaging is proud to announce it has completed a major prerequisite that will qualify the company to seek official Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification. Effective March 1, 2024, Jill Gaynor will take on the roles of CEO and majority shareholder of the manufacturing and distribution company. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221179747/en/ Jill and John Gaynor, owners of Premier Packaging, are excited to announce they have completed a major prerequisite that will qualify the company to seek official Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification. (Photo: Business Wire) As Jill Gaynorthe current Chief Marketing Officerassumes her new duties, current Premier owner and CEO John Gaynor will transition to President of the company. As a female-owned and -managed business, Premier will now have minority-owned status that will open new business opportunities for us, said Jill Gaynor. We are excited about partnering with other companies including state and local governments to do what we do wellall things packaging. Jill has been involved in our business since day one, collaborating with me on every risk and decision, said John Gaynor. We will still collaborate together, but now Jill will take on the controlling leadership role within Premier. Premier Packaging will celebrate 30 years in business this March. Based on 2023 data, Premier will rank as the seventeenth largest woman-owned/managed business in the country. About Womens Business Enterprise Certification WBE certification by the Womens Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) validates that a business is at least 51% owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women. Since the WBENCs founding in 1997, the nonprofit organization has grown to become the largest third-party certifier of businesses owned, controlled, and operated by women in the United States and a leading advocate for women-owned businesses in corporate and government supply chains. About Premier Packaging Started in Louisville in 1994, Premier Packaging has grown to locations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico by offering custom-made packaging and shipping solutions to its customers. Premier asks Why to deliver the How. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221179747/en/ Mallory Robinson, Director of Marketing, 502-599-1101, [email protected] Source: Premier Packaging Cyber Academy of South Carolina and Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina, focused on flexible learning, are now accepting students for the upcoming academic year GREENVILLE, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- For families in search of a flexible, tailored learning environment for their students, enrollment is now open at Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC) and Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (Heron) for the 2024-2025 school year! Both full-time, tuition-free, online public schools invite prospective families to join the vibrant virtual learning community of students and educators from across the state. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221122811/en/ Depending on a students individual needs, learning styles, and future goals, CASC and Heron offer highly personalized educational pathways with a robust curriculum powered by K12, staff of South Carolina-certified teachers, and a wide range of exciting extracurriculars. The flexible nature of online school provides students with both the opportunity to learn in the way that works best for them and the ability to pursue their passions outside of the classroom. CASC serves grades K to 12 and supports each students academic, social, and emotional growth. To support more advanced learners, it offers the Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program which is designed to nurture gifted students through modifications such as dual enrollment for high schoolers, opportunities for acceleration, and curriculum compacting. Angel Canete, Greenville local and elite karate athlete competing on the US National Team, credits CASC as the reason shes able to balance academic success with her rigorous training schedule but also to empower her with invaluable life and career skills that will prepare her for the future. A traditional school environment wouldnt fit my life because I wouldnt have the time to come to train at the dojo I wouldnt have the time to step aside from school for competitions, says Angel. Virtual school is the perfect fit for me because it enables me to put my passions to work. Focused on personalized alternative pathways to graduation by offering focused support, credit recovery courses, career prep and work-based learning opportunities, Heron serves students in grades 9 to 12 currently but will expand to include grade 8 in the 2024-2025 school year. Recent Heron graduate Joseph McFadden was able to thrive personally and academically because it allowed him to learn at his own speed. My favorite parts of learning at Heron were the projects and being able to work at my own pace, says Joseph. This flexible schedule allowed me to have a job, make time for friends and family, all while putting school first. I loved Heron because it felt like family it felt like home. CASC and Herons curriculum are provided by K12, a Stride, Inc. company and the nations leading provider of online and blended education programs. For more information, please visit K12.com. About Cyber Academy of South Carolina Cyber Academy of South Carolina (CASC) is an online public-school program of The Charter Institute at Erskine, serving students across the state of South Carolina for more than a decade. CASC is tuition-free, giving parents and families the choice to access the engaging curriculum and tools provided by Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN), the nations leading provider of proprietary K-12 curriculum and online education programs. For more information about CASC, visit casc.k12.com. About Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina is an online public-school program of The Charter Institute at Erskine, serving students across the state of South Carolina. Heron is tuition-free, giving parents and families the choice to access the engaging curriculum and tools provided by Stride, Inc. (NYSE: LRN), the nations leading provider of proprietary K-12 curriculum and online education programs. For more information about Heron, hvasc.k12.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221122811/en/ Ken Schwartz Stride, Inc. Sr. Manager, Corporate Communications [email protected] Source: Stride, Inc. OAK RIDGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Type One Energy Group intends to locate to the Tennessee Valley Authoritys (TVA) Bull Run Fossil Plant in Clinton, Tennessee, as the site for building Infinity One, the companys stellarator fusion prototype machine. The construction of Infinity One could begin in 2025, following the completion of necessary environmental reviews, partnership agreements, required permits, and operating licenses. Project Infinity is the result of a tri-party memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 between TVA, Type One Energy, and the U.S. Department of Energys Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), in which they recognized that fusion has the potential to become an attractive carbon-free power generation technology and expressed an interest in the successful development and commercialization of economic and practical fusion energy technologies. The construction of Infinity One at Bull Run aligns with Tennessee Governor Bill Lees vision to position the state as a national leader in clean energy, and Project Infinity is the first recipient of funds from the Governors Nuclear Energy Fund. In partnership with TVA and ORNL, Type One Energy will explore subsequent opportunities to further advance commercial deployment of fusion energy in the East Tennessee region. Infinity One will allow Type One Energy to verify important design features of its high field stellarator fusion pilot plant, particularly those related to operating efficiency, reliability, maintainability, and affordability. Type One Energy will establish its headquarters in East Tennessee, creating over 300 high-paying jobs within the next five years. Project Infinity, which includes the deployment of Infinity One and Type One Energys new headquarters, is expected to bolster economic growth and energy technological leadership in the region. "Type One Energy is committed to making commercial fusion a reality over the next decade. Successful deployment of Infinity One in East Tennessee, with our partners TVA and ORNL, is a critical milestone in our FusionDirect commercialization program. It is also a watershed moment toward the commercialization of fusion, linking for the first time leaders in the technology, utility, and national laboratory sectors on an actual deployment project," said Type One Energy CEO Christofer Mowry. Project Infinity will create the worlds highest performance stellarator, offering an excellent platform for a potential long-term fusion research facility. TVA is working with our partners to pursue new ideas and innovative solutions that meet growing energy demand in real-world conditions, said TVA President and CEO Jeff Lyash. We appreciate this partnership between Type One Energy, ORNL, our local power companies and elected and economic development officials as we work together to identify energy technologies for the future. Its exciting to see a project in Oak Ridge with such great potential to advance fusion energy, said Oak Ridge National Laboratory Director Stephen Streiffer. The laboratory has been a pioneer in fusion science and technology dating back to the early 1950s. We look forward to applying our institutional expertise and capabilities in working with Type One Energy on the engineering challenges they will be tackling at this new test facility. In addition to Type Ones commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, the company will begin engaging and collaborating with local communities in East Tennessee during the upcoming months. Type One Energy is committed to an inclusive process for executing Project Infinity, working closely with its partners and the state of Tennessee to create a cleaner, more sustainable future of energy. QUOTES Our administration created the Nuclear Energy Fund in partnership with the Tennessee General Assembly to recruit companies like Type One Energy. Tennessee is ready to secure its place as the top state for energy independence, and we are proud to partner with Type One Energy to further that mission and bring hundreds of high-quality jobs and more reliable energy to Tennesseans. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee With assets like Oak Ridge National Lab, Tennessee is the quintessential location for companies like Type One Energy to grow and succeed. This project will not only strengthen Tennessees R&D footprint but also further develop our nuclear sector, which wouldnt be possible without the forethought of Gov. Bill Lee and our Tennessee General Assembly to create the Nuclear Energy Fund. TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter I am very excited that the site of the Bull Run Fossil Plant is so quickly being repurposed to tackle the future energy needs of Tennessee, and the nation. Im grateful to Type One Energy, Gov. Lee, TNECD, the Tennessee General Assembly and TVA for choosing Anderson County for this project location as part of the larger effort for Tennessee to take the lead in the advancement of nuclear energy. Whether its keeping us warm, running a hospital or powering businesses, we rely on energy and this further effort to develop safe, clean, reliable nuclear is an enormous win. Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank "Congratulations to Type One Energy and all the partnerships that helped this important project locate in East Tennessee. This is a great example of a next-generation, high-impact project that will benefit from the technology and workforce assets of our community. The Knoxville Chamber stands ready to champion Type One Energys headquarters operations as the project evolves." Doug Lawyer, Vice President of Economic Development, Knoxville Chamber The road to true energy independence for our nation is paved with nuclear energy. I am proud and grateful that Type One Energy has chosen Oak Ridge for this facility. Our region has become a unique and important hub for technological innovation. Type One Energy is exactly the kind of company that can move our region and our state forward, both economically and technologically. I look forward to Type One Energy and our area growing together bringing jobs and innovation to the region. I would like to thank Gov. Lee, Commissioner McWhorter, the General Assembly and the Tennessee Nuclear Energy Advisory Council for all they have done to make this possible. Lt. Gov. Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge) I am proud to welcome Type One Energy to Clinton. Nuclear energy is not only incredibly important to Tennessees past, but its future as well. This project represents a substantial investment in our community that will bring new innovation and hundreds of new jobs to Anderson County. I was proud to support the creation of the Nuclear Energy Fund and the positive results it will have for this growing sector of our economy. Rep. John Ragan (R-Oak Ridge) Its great to see Tennessee continue growing as the leader in nuclear energy and technology that will power Americas and the worlds future. As the leading advocate in Congress to advance Americas nuclear renaissance, Im proud to work closely with leaders like Governor Bill Lee, TVA, and ORNL, as well as our industry partners like Type One Energy Group, to make the incredible promise of fusion energy and a new nuclear future a reality here in East Tennessee and throughout our great nation. Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Chairman Energy and Water Appropriations About Type One Energy Type One Energy Group is mission-driven to provide sustainable, affordable fusion power to the world. The company was formed by a team of globally recognized fusion scientists with a strong track record of building state-of-the-art stellarator fusion machines, together with veteran business leaders experienced in successfully scaling companies and commercializing energy technologies. Type One Energy applies proven advanced manufacturing methods, modern computational physics, and high-field superconducting magnets to develop its optimized stellarator fusion energy system. Its FusionDirect development program pursues the lowest-risk, shortest-schedule path to a fusion power plant over the coming decade, using a partner-rich and capital-efficient strategy. For more information, visit typeoneenergy.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221645049/en/ Andrea Schneibel [email protected] Source: Type One Energy Oliver Varhelyi, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, stated that the Georgian government has promptly tackled roaming issues, resulting in reduced costs for Georgian citizens in the European Union. He noted that Georgia's attainment of candidate status has already produced tangible results, citing progress in addressing the roaming issue as an example."In terms of roaming, we are very satisfied with the Georgian government's progress. Currently, we have all the necessary elements to propose to the Council of the European Union to expedite Georgia's integration into the roaming area," Varhelyi stated.The European Commissioner emphasized that this achievement is "as tangible as the liberalization of the visa regime."During his official visit to Brussels, Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze met with the President of the European Council, Charles Michel. Kobakhidze emphasized that his visit signifies the Georgian government's commitment to prioritizing accession to the European Union. He thanked Michel for his support and acknowledged the President's personal involvement in Georgia's EU integration process. In response, Michel congratulated Kobakhidze on his appointment and wished him success.Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze highlighted Georgia's momentum in EU accession since its candidacy, affirming continued dedication and hoping for ongoing EU support.The meeting also addressed Georgia's political landscape. The Prime Minister confirmed the government's invitation to the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, underscoring their commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.The discussions also covered Georgia's occupied territories, with Kobakhidze thanking the EU for its support of sovereignty and calling for increased involvement in resolving the Russia-Georgia conflict."Both in the format of the Association Council and at bilateral meetings, we discussed various directions of cooperation as well as specific projects. The Black Sea cable project and the issue of roaming were especially highlighted. It is crucial to implement these projects, as they are important for our country and population. We are committed to taking concrete steps in cooperation with the European Union to deepen overall cooperation and to implement these specific projects," Kobakhidze said. Ibex Backs Early-Stage Tech Companies Across Enterprise Software, Infrastructure, Cybersecurity and Transformative Industries DENVER & TEL AVIV, Israel--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ibex Investors LLC (Ibex), a US-based multi-stage and multi-strategy investment firm, announced today the close of its fourth Israel focused fund, Ibex Israel VC II LP (the Fund), with $106 million in capital commitments to invest in early-stage Israeli startups. The Fund follows Ibexs $100 million Israel early-stage fund raised in 2020 and the roster of limited partners includes founders and current and former executives across a wide range of sectors. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220016374/en/ Ibex Investors Israel team (Credit: Roei Shor) Ibex Investors is a US-based investment firm that invests in Israeli startups from pre-seed to pre-IPO and typically leads or co-leads rounds across various verticals. The firm also invests in public Israeli companies through its hedge funds. Ibexs operational go-to-market expertise and focus on both the private and public markets enables the firm to support founders and portfolio companies from initial investment through public listing. Since launching its first Israel fund in 2012, Ibex has made 40 early and growth stage investments in Israel. Among the current investments in Ibexs portfolio are BeamUp, Appwrite, Honeycomb, Visionary.ai, and Weka. Previous Ibex portfolio companies have been acquired by leading firms such as Cisco, CheckPoint, LinkedIn, and Intuit. Justin Borus, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Ibex Investors, said, Doubling down on Israel underscores our commitment to the Israeli ecosystem as a leading market for technology. Despite the ongoing war and challenging global macroeconomics, our LPs recognize the opportunity to make outsized returns precisely from opportunities such as these. Most of the worlds greatest innovations come as a direct result of war and conflict and we believe this time will be no different." Nicole Priel, Partner at Ibex Investors, shared: "Why Israel? Why now? The answers couldnt be any more clear. We firmly believe that the Israeli tech entrepreneur possesses an innate sense of drive, creativity, and perseverance required to turn ideas into reality. We maintain our conviction that this is an opportune time to be building ventures and are committed to partnering with ambitious entrepreneurs from inception as they build the leading companies of tomorrow." The Ibex team in Israel is led by Nicole Priel who focuses on early-stage investments, and Gal Gitter, Partner, who focuses on growth stage and secondary investments. With the recent addition of Aaron Rinberg, Partner, and Alon Cinamon, Associate, the Israel office has grown to 7 people. About Ibex Investors Founded in 2003, Ibex invests in public and privately held companies (Seed through IPO) across enterprise software, cybersecurity, and other domains. The firm is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with an office in Tel Aviv. With nearly $1 billion in assets under management, Ibex proactively seeks out markets and opportunities commonly dismissed as too difficult or different. It prides itself on finding hidden gems often overlooked by others. For more information, please visit www.ibexinvestors.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240220016374/en/ Lian Swirsky [email protected] +972-50-2846262 Source: Ibex Investors LLC WNORTH announces the return of its eighth-annual three-day conference taking place from May 8-10 at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler. This immersive experience brings together leading female business leaders from corporate, public, and entrepreneurial sectors worldwide. WHISTLER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The eighth edition of the 2024 WNORTH conference, Canadas largest destination gathering for women in leadership, is making its return to Whistler, British Columbia. To kick off the programming, WNORTH announced a two-year partnership with TD as the sponsor of the conference, in support of womens professional growth. We show up, support, and roll up our sleeves to help you and your business as we work to remove key barriers women entrepreneurs face. We are passionate about womens professional development and growth, and we have a broad group of bankers in markets to help make this happen by establishing trusted relationships with women-owned and women-led enterprises, said Julie Dimitri, the National Manager of Women in Enterprise at TD, TD Bank is proud to join the 8th WNORTH Conference as the Presenting Sponsor. This years Conference will be held at the picturesque Four Seasons Resort Whistler with activities held around the resort including Connect Dinners at a variety of local restaurants. Attendees will also be able to tune in virtually for an immersive three-day agenda that honours the theme, Lift As We Climb, in upholding the transformative power of connection and mentorship in bridging the gender power gap in business and beyond. We are excited to welcome 250 women in person and 2,000+ virtually to Whistler to collaborate and uplift the community together. This is a time to be bold and create a landscape of sustained success that is woven by mentorship and shared experiences, says Heather Odendaal, Founder and CEO of WNORTH, In the last decade, WNORTH has gathered over 20,000 women worldwide to cultivate a lasting impact on the community through the hundreds of events, peer mentorship forums and workshops. In 2024, we want to extend our thanks to our sponsors TD, PepsiCo Foods Canada, Cisco, University Canada West and Translink, as well as our media partners, The Globe and Mail and BCBusiness, for their unrelenting support in putting our 8th Conference on. Through captivating keynotes, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking roundtables led by internationally renowned speakers and visionary business leaders, these individuals will delve deep into the essence of inclusion, community, and mentorship, unravelling their true power and impact. Confirmed speakers include Farah Mohamed, CEO of Prince's Trust Canada and former CEO of the Malala Fund; Rachel Ferdinando, President of PepsiCo Foods Canada; Dr. Julie Pham, CEO of CuriosityBased; Matricia Bauer, the Knowledge Keeper and CEO of Warrior Women Inc.; Kristen Nichols, Senior Vice President of Cisco; and Julie Dimitri, the National Manager of Women in Enterprise at TD. Early Bird Registration is now open, with a variety of in-person and virtual options available, starting at $299. About WNORTH WNORTH is an award-winning membership network that aims to bridge the gender power gap by empowering women in the leadership pipeline. Through their annual conference, virtual events, and membership community, WNORTH connects professional women from various sectors and provides them with opportunities to share knowledge, experiences, and networks. With over 20k past event attendees, 350+ events, and 1,500+ members worldwide, WNORTH is making a significant impact in developing more women leaders in business. Their mission not only benefits the individuals themselves but also has a positive ripple effect on their teams, families, and communities. Notable corporate members include Indeed.com, TD, SAP, Cisco, Aritzia, and Accor. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221625333/en/ Media Emily Larman [email protected] 604-897-8081 Source: WNORTH Alat (Alat), a PIF company, and Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, today announced their commitment to build a cutting-edge manufacturing and R&D facility in Saudi Arabia that will deliver advanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions. The partnership will serve customers in the Kingdom, and its visionary Giga projects, such as NEOM, as well as ensure broader regional and even global distribution. Alat was established on February 1, 2023 , by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman Abdulaziz Al Saud , Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Alat. The agreement will leverage Alat's financial strengths and Carrier's technology and manufacturing capabilities to develop made-in- Saudi Arabia intelligent climate solutions, marking the first phase of the partnership with Alat. These offerings will address the continued growth of the HVAC industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is expected to become a US$10 billion addressable market by 2030 and a US$334 billion market globally by 2030 driven by secular trends including urbanization, sustainability and energy solutions, and digital transformation. This market will also provide scale to develop products, such as solutions for district cooling and heating, which could be used globally. Amit Midha , Chief Executive Officer at Alat, said: "We are proud to partner with a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, and bring to the Kingdom expertise and innovation in this field. We see Carrier as a long-term partner in our Smart Buildings line of business, which is solely focused on solutions that integrate innovation, sustainability, and efficiency for buildings. Carrier's commitment to sustainability makes them the natural partner for Alat." "Carrier has long had a presence in Saudi Arabia and we see significant growth opportunities in the region. This partnership is the start of a longer-term partnership to co-develop innovative solutions that will redefine intelligent climate and energy solutions for the Middle East and beyond," said Carrier Chairman & CEO David Gitlin . "The Kingdom's vision for a more energy efficient, environmentally responsible tomorrow is well aligned with Carrier's goals and makes this partnership a winning combination. We are excited about the future and look forward to collaborating with Alat as we further build on our long presence in this important region. Since 1987, Carrier has been actively engaged in the Saudi market through a successful joint venture with EA Juffali and Brothers, a prominent group in the Kingdom. Carrier remains committed to this longstanding and valuable partnership." Carrier and Alat plan to break ground later this year on an advanced sustainable manufacturing and R&D facility in the Kingdom that will provide high-volume, high-tech, energy-efficient HVAC products including variable refrigerant flow (VRF), air-cooled chillers, air handling units (AHUs) and rooftop units for MENA markets, supported by local supply chain. R&D will focus on developing breakthrough technologies to meet region-specific requirements, such as high ambient temperature and natural/Low GWP refrigerant HVAC systems, both of which can also be exported globally. As many as 5,000 jobs are expected to be created locally to support the project. Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (NYSE: EBS), a global company providing solutions that address public health threats and delivering life-extending products to market, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Joseph C. Papa as president and CEO, effective February 21, 2024. Mr. Papa succeeds Haywood Miller, who will step down from his role as interim CEO, effective February 21, 2024. "Following a thorough search process, we are pleased to appoint Joe Papa as president and CEO of Emergent, said Zsolt Harsanyi, Ph.D., chairman of the Board of Directors. He is a recognized industry leader with unparalleled experience in all facets of the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. Joe has a solid track record of driving growth and successfully navigating companies through periods of transformation. His leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Emergents balance sheet and returning to growth, as we continue to deliver on our mission to protect and enhance life. On behalf of the Board, I would also like to thank Haywood Miller for his leadership and contributions during this interim period. Whether its increasing access to NARCAN Nasal Spray, which is helping combat the opioid epidemic, or continuing to deliver important medical countermeasures to customers around the world, Emergent is providing critical products to address global health crises, said Mr. Papa. I am confident that these important products provide for a bright future ahead as Emergent continues to lead in public health preparedness. I look forward to working with the team to accelerate the companys progress, continue improving its financial position and drive value for shareholders. It is a privilege to join Emergent and chart a new chapter in this vital space. Over the past several months, I am encouraged by our achievements in strengthening Emergents financial foundation and core products business, stated Mr. Miller. It has been an honor to lead Emergent during this period of transition, and I am confident the company is well positioned for the future as a leader in global preparedness and public health. 2023 Key Milestones & Accomplishments Emergent's sharpened strategic focus delivered several key accomplishments in 2023, including: Strengthened Portfolio Launched NARCAN Nasal Spray over-the-counter opioid overdose reversal treatment in the U.S., in addition to distributing over 20 million doses (10 million two-dose boxes) in the U.S. and Canada Nasal Spray over-the-counter opioid overdose reversal treatment in the U.S., in addition to distributing over 20 million doses (10 million two-dose boxes) in the U.S. and Canada Secured a new $235.8 million contract with U.S. Dept. of Defense for BioThrax (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed) (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed) Signed a new $379.6 million U.S. Dept. of Defense contract for RSDL (Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion Kit) (Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion Kit) Received U.S. FDA approval of CYFENDUS (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, Adjuvanted), formerly AV7909, a two-dose anthrax vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis use (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed, Adjuvanted), formerly AV7909, a two-dose anthrax vaccine for post-exposure prophylaxis use Awarded a $75 million option to Emergents existing contract for the acquisition of anthrax vaccine CYFENDUS Awarded a 10-year contract by BARDA for advanced development, manufacturing scale-up, and procurement of Ebanga (ansuvimab-zykl), a treatment for Ebola Submitted a supplemental Biologics License Application to the FDA for ACAM2000 (Smallpox (Vaccinia) Vaccine, Live) vaccine for immunization against Mpox virus Improved Financial Position Implemented organizational changes resulting in $60 million in annual savings Shifted resource deployment resulting in $100 million in annual savings Amended and extended maturity of our secured credit facility to May 2025 Travel Health business divestiture valued at up to $380 million About Joseph C. Papa Mr. Papa brings over 35 years of experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry, having most recently served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman at Bausch and Lomb Corporation (Bausch and Lomb) (NYSE: BLCO) a global eye health company. During his tenure, Papa successfully led the Companys IPO in May 2022 to raise $630 million. Prior to his role at Bausch and Lomb, Papa was the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Bausch Health. He previously served as the Chairman and CEO of Perrigo, a private-label over-the-counter pharmaceuticals manufacturer, and led the pharmaceutical and technologies services division at Cardinal Health, a healthcare services and distribution company. Before that, Papa held the role of President and Chief Operating Officer at Watson Pharmaceuticals and worked for 14 years at Novartis Pharmaceuticals in the U.S. and Switzerland. General Dynamics European Land Systems - Steyr (GDELS) announced that it has been awarded a contract to deliver an additional 225 PANDUR 6x6 EVO wheeled armored vehicles to the Austrian Armed Forces. The contract has an initial value of 1.2 billion euros ( U.S. $1.3 billion ). GDELS already has 100 PANDUR EVO vehicles under contract, with the third batch currently in production and delivery. In addition to the delivery of state-of-the-art personnel carriers and flexible conversion kits for medical, and command & control missions, the order includes eight new vehicle variants, including vehicles equipped with a 120 mm mortar combat system, as well as mobile air defense and electronic warfare variants. "Today's procurement decision marks an extraordinary milestone in the history of our PANDUR and underlines the globally unique performance and multi-role capability of this wheeled armored vehicle family," said GDELS President Antonio Bueno . "Since the very beginning, Austria has been one of GDELS' home countries. Consequently, we are fully dedicated and proud to continuing our proven, trusted partnership by providing the Austrian Armed Forces with enhanced military mobility, while at the same time contributing to sustainable macroeconomic added-value together with our many industry partners." The compact, high-performance PANDUR EVO 6x6 is built at GDELS' Steyr facility in Vienna Simmering , the national center of excellence for wheeled and tracked protected military mobility. Preceding versions of the PANDUR EVO have been in service with the Austrian Armed Forces since 1996. Around 850 PANDUR in 6x6 and 8x8 configurations are fielded worldwide today. Other users include Belgium , the Czech Republic , Indonesia , Kuwait , Portugal , Slovenia , and the U.S. Press Release Nokia to Revolutionize Mobile Networks with Cloud RAN and AI Powered by NVIDIA New collaboration will help position AI as transformative to mobile networks Collaboration to focus on Cloud RAN solutions that leverage advanced NVIDIA Grace CPUs and NVIDIA GPUs, Nokias In-Line accelerator technology and Cloud RAN software Enhances Nokias anyRAN approach that improves choice and flexibility in Cloud RAN solutions 21st February 2024 Nokia today announced that it is collaborating with NVIDIA to revolutionize the future of AI-ready radio access network (RAN) solutions. The collaboration, which further enhances Nokias anyRAN approach, aims to position AI as fundamental to transforming the future of the telecommunications network business. As AI is poised to change the landscape of telecommunications infrastructure and services within the mobile operator sector, this collaboration aims to deliver incremental value to end users through the introduction of innovative telco AI services. Nokia will collaborate with NVIDIA on Cloud RAN solutions that leverage the NVIDIA Grace CPU Superchip for Layer 2+ processing, Nokias high-performance, energy-efficient In-Line Layer 1 (L1) accelerator technology, and Cloud RAN software. Additionally, Nokia will use NVIDIA GPUs for AI applications and vRAN acceleration, paving the way for AI-RAN. The NVIDIA Grace CPU is based on the latest and most advanced Arm Neoverse V2 CPU reference architecture. It delivers incredible performance, power efficiency, and high-bandwidth connectivity covering all data center requirements. Nokias customers will benefit from diversity and choice in selecting CPUs for Cloud RAN networks. The announcement is a continuation of Nokias flexible anyRAN approach that supports any purpose-built, hybrid or Cloud RAN environment. Its designed to help customers get their Cloud RAN services up and running much faster, removing complexity and ensuring openness and flexibility. Nokias high-performance, energy-efficient In-Line acceleration architecture seamlessly integrates with all leading cloud or server infrastructures. Nokia has successfully performed end-to-end 5G data calls (Layer 3 calls) in multi-vendor setups with several partners. Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: This is an important collaboration with NVIDIA that will explore how artificial intelligence can play a transformative role in the future of our industry. It is a further example of our anyRAN approach that is helping to make Cloud RAN a commercial reality. The strength of our industry collaborations means we can drive efficiency, innovation, openness, and scale by delivering competitive advantage to operators and enterprises. Ronnie Vasishta, Senior Vice President of Telecom at NVIDIA, said: Bringing the power of NVIDIAs advanced computing to Nokias platform will deliver more performant and energy-efficient Cloud RAN solutions. Plus, as AI creates unprecedented transformational opportunities across industries, our collaboration with Nokia deepens AI-enabled innovation in radio access networks for improved operational efficiency in telecommunications. Nucor Corporation (NYSE: NUE) announced today that the company's Board of Directors approved $860 million to construct a 650,000-tons-per-year rebar micro mill in the Pacific Northwest . This will be Nucor's fourth and largest rebar micro mill, with approximately 50 percent more production capacity than the mill currently under construction in North Carolina . Nucor continues to evaluate potential locations, and the project is expected to take two years to construct, subject to regulatory approvals. "The rebar we produce at our Nucor micro mills is made from nearly 100 percent recycled scrap, making it some of the cleanest steel made anywhere in the world," said Leon Topalian , Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer of Nucor. "This new rebar micro mill in the Pacific Northwest will help Nucor maintain its leadership in the steel bar market and further execute our strategy to better serve our customers west of the Rocky Mountains , which also includes the addition of a melt shop at our Arizona bar mill." The new mill will produce a full range of rebar sizes and will have spooling capabilities. Rebar is used primarily in the construction of roads, buildings, and other structures. With the increase in U.S. infrastructure investments, the domestic rebar market is expected to show continued strength. Union Pacific plans to invest $3.4 billion in 2024 to support safe operations, renew assets and grow with customers. That's the equivalent of spending more than $9 million every day to make the railroad safer and generate economic and supply chain activity across its 23-state footprint, boosting local, regional and the national economy. An estimated 56% of the capital plan, or $1.9 billion will go toward upgrading and replacing infrastructure, such as rail, ties, and ballasts, along with $0.6 billion toward locomotives and equipment. "We invest to keep our railroad and employees safe, and we will never compromise on that," said CEO Jim Vena . "We also spend capital dollars to provide a quality service product, and strong service, creating a winning environment for our customers." Union Pacific will continue to modernize the locomotive fleet, upgrading older core units. The plan also includes targeted freight car acquisitions to support replacement and growth opportunities. In addition, we are investing in capacity and technology projects across our network, such as siding extensions, to increase capacity, improve productivity and operational efficiency. The interior of the Boeing 737 assembly plant is pictured in Renton, Washington February 4, 2014. REUTERS/David Ryder/File Photo By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Boeing said on Wednesday it was replacing the head of its troubled 737 MAX program effective immediately, the first major executive departure since the Jan. 5 mid-air panel blowout of a new Alaska Airlines MAX 9. Ed Clark, who had been with the planemaker for nearly 18 years, departed as Boeing has been dealing with its latest crisis and has vowed to bolster quality efforts. Katie Ringgold is replacing him as vice president and general manager of the 737 program, according to a memo seen by Reuters sent to staff by Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal. The memo also listed other management changes including creation of a senior vice president position for quality and safety. The planemaker's production has been curbed by regulators and closely scrutinized by lawmakers and customers. Deal's memo announcing the change said Boeing was working to ensure "that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements." Boeing has scrambled to explain and strengthen safety procedures after a door panel detached during flight on a brand new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, forcing pilots to make an emergency landing while passengers were exposed to a gaping hole 16,000 feet above the ground. Boeing's board met this week and approved the management changes, according to sources familiar with the matter. Clark oversaw the production facility in Renton, Washington, where the plane involved in the accident was completed. Previously chief mechanic and engineer for the 737, he was named head of the program in 2021, the fifth person in four years to run it. Boeing said Elizabeth Lund was named to the new position of senior vice president for Boeing Commercial Airlines Quality leading quality control and quality assurance efforts. Mike Fleming will succeed her as senior vice president and general manager, airplane programs. He will also continue leading Boeing's customer support team. The latest mishap is Boeing's second major crisis in recent years, after crashes in 2018 and 2019 of MAX planes killed 346 people. That prompted a grounding of the 737 MAX for 20 months and Boeing was still working to rebuild its reputation. Airline industry executives have expressed frustration with Boeing's quality control. France's Airbus (NYSE: AIR), the only other major manufacturer of commercial jets, last month reported record annual jet orders and confirmed an 11% rise in 2023 deliveries, maintaining the top manufacturing spot against Boeing for a fifth year. "Firing the head of the MAX program was likely a matter of time, but I dont think it means very much," said Richard Aboulafia, managing director of aerospace consultancy AeroDynamic Advisory and a Boeing critic. The companys problems are cultural, with the tone being set from the top. The memo was first reported by the Seattle Times. David Nolletti, New York-based head of the aerospace practice at business services consultancy Riveron, said the change would affect how the program is managed and could signal more changes. Its not just a figurehead position, Nolletti said. I think well see more changes at Boeing as they evaluate their position and how their programs are performing. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun plans to meet with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) chief Mike Whitaker next week after the U.S. aviation regulator traveled to Renton to tour the Boeing 737 plant. The FAA said Whitaker "will discuss what he observed during his visit to Boeing with the companys executives when they come to Washington to discuss" quality control and other issues. Boeing shares closed down 0.8% on Wednesday. PRODUCTION DELAYS The FAA grounded the MAX 9 for several weeks in January and has capped Boeing's production of the MAX while it audits the manufacturing process after a string of quality issues. Boeing on Jan. 30 withdrew a request for a key safety exemption for its MAX 7 jet, which could push approval out until at least 2025. The door panel that flew off the MAX 9 appeared to be missing four key bolts, according to a preliminary report this month from the U.S. National Safety Transportation Board. The panel is a plug in place on some 737 MAX 9s instead of an additional emergency exit. According to the report, the door plug in question was removed to repair rivet damage, but the NTSB has not found evidence the bolts were re-installed. The disclosure angered Boeing's airline customers. Some including Alaska Airlines announced they would conduct enhanced quality oversight of planes before they leave the Boeing factory. (Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington and Abhijith Ganapavaram in Bengaluru; additional reporting by Allison Lampert in Montreal; Editing by Pooja Desai, David Gaffen and David Gregorio) VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: AKEMF) (AEMC or the Company) announces that it has been requested by OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTC Markets) to issue this statement about promotional activity concerning its common shares traded on the OTCQB market (operated by OTC Markets). On February 13, 2024, OTC Markets informed the Company that it became aware of certain promotional activities concerning the Company and its common shares traded on the OTCQB Marketplace, including the distribution of five (5) newsletter emails published by Future Money Trends, Wealth Research Group, Portfolio Wealth Global, and Crush the Street discussing the Company, its business, and the battery metals and nickel market generally (collectively, the Gold Standard Newsletters). On October 30, 2023, the Company entered into an advertising agreement with Gold Standard Media, LLC (Gold Standard), whereby Gold Standard, along with its affiliates, Future Money Trends LLC, Wealth Research Group LLC, Crush the Street, and Portfolio Wealth Global LLC (collectively, the Gold Standard Affiliates), would provide investor relations and advertising services to the Company. The Company was therefore aware of the Gold Standard Affiliates activities respecting the Company since October 30, 2023. Accordingly, the Gold Standard Newsletters were paid for by the Company through its engagement of Gold Standard. With respect to other marketing services providers engaged by the Company within the last 12 months, commencing on approximately July 15, 2023, the Company launched a marketing and investor relations program to raise awareness about Companys potential to uncover critical metals resources at its Nikolai nickel project in Alaska. The following is a list of the third-party providers (collectively, the Service Providers) engaged by the company to provide investor relations services, marketing, or other related services in the last twelve months. All listed contracts are active: Virtus Media Group, LLC. (DBA PB Alerts); 2686362 Ontario Corp (DBA Canacom or Deepdive); Apollo Shareholder Relations Ltd.; Triple Bull Consulting Inc. (DBA Momentum Letter); Super Charged Stocks Limited (DBA Market Mindset); Gold Standard Media, LLC; MMG Market Medium GmbH & Co.; Senergy Communications Capital Inc.; Energy & Gold Publishing Ltd. ; Final Edit Media and Public Relations Inc.; Canid Capital Corporation; Omni8 Communications Inc.; Junior Resource Investing.; Commodity Partners Inc.; Triomphe Holdings Ltd. (DBA Capital Analytica); Econ Corporate Services Inc. (DBA Investor Ideas); and Market Radius Capital Inc. The Company was therefore aware of the Service Providers activities respecting the Company since it began its marketing campaign on approximately July 15, 2023. The Service Providers are third-party marketing and advertising firms. The appointment of the Service Providers, the nature of the relationship between the Company and the Service Providers, as well as the compensation to be paid to the Service Providers were publicly disclosed in news releases on July 6, 2023, November 6, 2023, December 8, 2023, January 23, 2024, and January 30, 2024. All of which can be found under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). The Company provided the Service Providers with publicly available sources of information for its marketing materials and management reviewed and commented on the materials prepared by the Service Providers prior to their dissemination, including to ensure factual accuracy. The Company does not believe any of the statements in the marketing materials prepared by the Service Providers were materially false or misleading. A significant increase in the trading volume of the Companys common shares was noted by OTC Markets on February 12, 2024. The Company understands certain promotional activity coincided with increased trading activity in its common shares beginning on February 12, 2024. However, the Company does not believe the promotional activities were the primary factor in any increase in trading volume in its common shares. Rather, on February 12, 2024, the Company announced a major increase in its Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for its Eureka deposit at its Nikolai nickel project in Alaska. The Company believes that the favourable MRE results were the primary factor in the increased trading volume. None of the Companys management, directors or control persons have sold or purchased the Companys securities within the past 90 days. After an inquiry amongst the Service Providers, to managements knowledge, none of the Service Providers have sold securities of the Company within the past 90 days, except: An affiliate of Gold Standard, sold an aggregate of 1,289,500 common shares and purchased an aggregate of 270,000 common shares; and Entities controlled and directed by Commodity Partners Inc.s principals, Mario Vetro and Carson Seabolt, sold an aggregate of 2,381,082 common shares and purchased an aggregate of 1,958,500 common shares. The company has not at any point issued shares or convertible instruments allowing conversion to equity securities at prices constituting a discount to the current market rate at the time to any of the Service Providers, including investor relations or marketing firms. For additional information, visit https://alaskaenergymetals.com/. ABOUT ALASKA ENERGY METALSAlaska 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 near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the Nikolai Nickel 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 developing the Angliers nickel project in Quebec. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARDGregory BeischerGregory Beischer, President & CEO FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:Gregory A. Beischer, President & CEOToll-Free: 877-217-8978 | Local: 604-638-3164 Sarah Mawji, Public RelationsFinal Edit Media and Public Relations Email: [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Source: Alaska Energy Metals Corporation JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brightway Insurance today announced the appointment of Nick Clements as its new Chief Executive Officer. His appointment is effective March 1st and follows the launch of a refreshed brand in February and the milestone of more than $1.2 billion of premiums written in 2023. Nick has more than 20 years of experience building and scaling fintech businesses, both as a founder and an operator within leading financial services organizations. He previously served as President of Credit Cards at OneMain Financial, Co-Founder and CEO of MagnifyMoney (acquired by LendingTree), and CEO of Barclaycards UK consumer credit card business. Nicks career began at Swiss Re, a global insurance leader. Nick is a seasoned growth leader, with a strong track record of leveraging technology and data to drive transformational growth. We see tremendous opportunity at Brightway to utilize technology, data, and AI to create differentiated experiences for our customers, agents, and carrier partners and ultimately, drive outsized profitable growth for all stakeholders. We look forward to working with Nick and the entire team at Brightway as we continue on our journey to achieve this vision, says Sumit Rajpal, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of GrowthCurve Capital which is the majority investor in Brightway Insurance. Nick said, I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Brightway. It is a differentiated platform that provides consumers with curated choice as they protect their most important assets, and it provides entrepreneurial agency owners with the opportunity to build and grow their own businesses. We expect to use the power of technology, data, and AI, to delight customers and enhance agent productivity. I look forward to working with the talented Brightway team members to accelerate our growth and welcome more customers and franchise agent owners over the coming years. Nick's appointment as CEO comes on the heels of a record year for Brightway, in which the business reached $1.2bn in gross written premiums and added over 100 new franchises, both new records for the business, and the launch of a refreshed brand. Brightways new brand represents the companys commitment to its core values and purpose: helping people protect what matters to them most. The new brand was unveiled on the website February 6th and will be rolled out across the network throughout 2024. About Brightway Insurance Established in 2008, Brightway has grown to become one of the largest personal lines insurance distribution platforms in the U.S. with more than 350 agencies in 35 states and more than $1.2 billion in annual premiums. Through our successful model, agency owners focus on protecting their clients most important assets through consultation, curated choice, and confidence. Brightway focuses on enabling the success of our agency owners by providing access to a range of carrier partners, centralized back-office support, our purpose-built technology platform, and continuous learning and development resources. Learn more at www.brightway.com. About GrowthCurve Capital GrowthCurve Capital is a private equity firm focused on building world-class businesses by leveraging data, analytics, and machine learning, combined with a comprehensive approach to human capital, to accelerate growth and drive value creation. Founded by Sumit Rajpal, former Global Co-Head of the Goldman Sachs Merchant Banking Division, the firm focuses on data-rich control-oriented private equity investments primarily across the technology and information services, healthcare, and financial services sectors. For more information, please visit www.GrowthCurveCapital.com. Contact:Charles Baumberger Head of Marketing and Branding[email protected] Source: Brightway Insurance NEW YORK, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Evercel, Inc. [OTC EXPERT MARKET: EVRC] Evercel, Inc. (the Company) announced today that it would continue to implement its Plan of Liquidation and Dissolution by making an additional cash liquidating distribution to the Companys stockholders and transferring its primary asset an indirect interest in ZAGG to a liquidating trust (the Trust) for future additional liquidating distributions to the stockholders. The Company set a record date of February 20, 2024 for the immediate additional liquidating distribution and anticipates an effective payment date of February 23, 2024 for such distribution, which distribution will be in the amount of approximately $7,500,000 (approximately $0.28 per share of common stock). The Company anticipates completing the Trusts formation this month and transferring its sole non-cash asset, an indirect interest in ZAGG, to such trust. Once implemented, the Trust would issue each stockholder a beneficial interest proportionate to its interest in the Company. This beneficial interest would generally not be transferable (with limited intestacy exceptions). Such transfer would be treated as a distribution to the Companys stockholders for tax purposes. However, a liquidating distribution from the Trust with respect to this asset will not be made to the Trusts beneficial interest holders unless and until ZAGG is sold. The Company cannot predict the timing of such sale at this time. The Company values its indirect interest in ZAGG at approximately $25,423,537 (approximately $0.93 per share). Following the abovementioned additional liquidating distribution and transfer of its indirect interest in ZAGG, the Companys primary asset will be cash in the amount of approximately $3.3 million. The sole purpose of this cash is to pay down the Companys liabilities, after which point the Company will cease any and all operations. Stockholders of the Company should work with their individual tax advisors to determine the most appropriate filing approach for additional liquidating distributions from the Company or the Trust. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information: This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning the federal securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally delivered in the future tense and/or are preceded by words such as may, will, should, forecast, projected, could, expect, suggest, believe, estimate, anticipate, intend, plan, or similar words, or the negatives of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Contact: Richard Janney, Chief Financial Officer, [email protected] Source: Evercel TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A new report, Robbing from the public to build the private: The Ford governments hospital privatization scheme reveals that local hospitals in every region of Ontario have operating rooms sitting idle the majority of the time. The public has funded local hospitals for more than 70 years to build operating room capacity that is unused while the Ford government is shunting unprecedented public money to private for-profit clinics and hospitals to build new operating rooms, the Coalition reports. For the last year, the Coalition researched the unused capacity in local public hospitals through Freedom of Information requests and interviews with surgical staff. They gathered figures from Ontario government budget and expense documents, media reports, contracts and accountability agreements to provide a litany of examples of much higher costs and large funding increases provided by the Ford government to for-profit corporation clinics, hospitals and staffing agencies. At the same time, the government has imposed dollar cuts, deficits, and wage caps on public hospitals, robbing them of the ability to attract and retain staff and use their existing operating room capacity. For example, the following communities have operating rooms that are functional but unused: Alexandria, Brockville, Cambridge, Hawkesbury, Kitchener, London, North Bay, Oakville, Sault Ste. Marie, St. Catharines, Southampton, and Wiarton. In addition, the majority of operating rooms in the following communities are closed the majority of the time (late afternoons, evenings, overnight and/or on weekends): Alliston, Almonte, Barrie, Bowmanville, Carleton Place, Collingwood, Cornwall, Kingston, Meaford, Nepean, Niagara Falls, Orillia, Oshawa, Ottawa, Pembroke, Peterborough, Toronto, and Welland. In addition, the Coalition reports the Ford government has: Imposed real dollar cuts on public hospitals, pushing them into service closures and deficits, while funding for-profit hospitals and clinics with increases up to and over 300%. Ontario funds its public hospitals at the lowest rate of all provinces. Funded private for-profit hospitals at double the rate per surgery than it funds public hospitals. Funded private for-profit ophthalmology clinics across Ontario at 21% - 56% more for each cataract surgery. Refused to take action on the for-profit staffing agencies that are charging up to three times more than public hospitals for staff, having escalated their prices by more than 70% since Ford took office, while imposing wage caps and real dollar cuts on staff in public hospitals. Chronically underspent the health care budget, shunting billions to contingency fund and budget surplus, while leaving hospitals in unprecedented crisis. Hundreds of millions of dollars in public money is being used to dismantle and privatize our public hospitals, robbing the public to build the private, said Natalie Mehra, executive director of the Ontario Health Coalition. A few for-profit corporations are being enriched by the Ford governments privatization scheme while our public hospitals and patients pay the price. It is beyond time that there is a rigorous investigation into who is benefitting from these policy choices and what their connections are to this government, because the costs and threats to our local public hospitals and the future of our single-tier public health system are very real and urgent. For more information: Natalie Mehra, executive director (416) 230-6402 (cell), [email protected] and Salah Shadir, operations director (647) 648-5706 [email protected]. Local health coalitions across Ontario are also available. Source: Ontario Health Coalition Golden, CO, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Participants in a workshop organized by the U.S. Department of Energys National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) agree on the importance of mitigating degradation rates for the continuing rollout of clean technologies. Renewable energy is forecast to play an expanded role in meeting future needs, with terawatts of electricity expected to be generated from wind and solar, so the performance of the technologies involved is becoming increasingly important. Any technology degrades over time, so researchers are looking at ways to curb this issue. Mitigating degradation will become a factor for both national energy security and economic health. At such large scales, clean technologies working as long as possible hold the potential for billions of dollars in savings through improved system performance and longevity. The recommendations derived from the cross-cutting gathering of scientific minds from industry, universities, and national laboratories come amid an increasing reliance on electricity generation from renewable sources and the White Houses goal of a net-zero carbon emission economy by 2050. More than 50 experts outlined an ambitious pathway that could ultimately become part of industry standards. The workshop followed a year of regular meetings among NREL researchers. We hope to inspire other people and more effort on this, said Dirk Jordan, a distinguished member of research staff at NREL and lead author of a newly published paper outlining the recommendations. In the paper, we're making the argument we're at a decent scale in terms of renewable energy. But as we hopefully grow that more and more and there's more emphasis on degradation science and understanding the science behind it, it will really pay off in 10 years. But we have to lay the foundations now and invest more in that. The paper, Nanoscale Science for Terawatt/Gigaton Scale Performance of Clean Energy Technologies, appears in the journal Joule. The other co-authors, all from NREL, are Steven Hayden, Nancy Haegel, Paul Veers, Shaun Alia, Teresa Barnes, Ashley Gaulding, and Katherine Jungjohann. The cross-disciplinary, two-day workshop examined the commonalities across various technologies, identified areas for synergistic work, and outlined a path forward. Solar, wind, batteries, and electrolyzers are at various stages of technology readiness and deployment, but all share the same challenge. The participants noted the lack of sufficient, accessible reliability data and urged the strengthening of the feedback loop between manufacturers, research and evaluation laboratories, and field tests. Several high-level issues were identified, Jordan said. Obviously, there's differences between all those technologies, but there are also commonalities. The starting point, the participants pointed out, is the need for reliability data. For various reasons, including proprietary concerns, manufacturers have little incentive to publicize this information, and earlier-stage research often does not reach the step where reliability is tested. National laboratories and international research institutions can play a role here, the paper pointed out, by distilling and de-risking proprietary data for public knowledge. They also emphasized the need for robust and shared collections of actual degradation and failure data. Also considered important is an atomistic examination of a technology, which can reveal stressors and allow for the identification of weak points in the material or structure. The researchers pointed to how microscopic examinations of bearings in the failing drivetrains of wind turbines discovered cracks. Manufacturers were able to use this information to solve the problem of unexpected failures caused by the bearings. This understanding allows for design changes to be made that can mitigate degradation. The various technologies share a need for ongoing and expanded attention to degradation mechanisms and mitigation across size scales, the researchers noted. That includes accelerated tests that take different stressors into account, with that information then used to develop standards. The researchers said identifying the causes of degradation continues to be a challenge for energy storage and electrolysis. Decades-long work into solar and wind has enabled manufacturers to mitigate the degradation rate for those technologies because equipment failures and performance loss in the field generated new ideas to cure the problems. That research contributed to the development of international standards, which in turn has improved the durability of wind turbines and solar modules. Standards development is needed for the other renewable energy technologies as well, according to the journal article. Standards typically lag behind cutting-edge technology, Jordan said. It takes time to develop standards. Typically, it's done by a committee and based on volunteers. Thats usually a few years. That's a challenge. But they are necessary to ensure reliability in the future. There's no question about that. The workshop was funded by the Laboratory Directed Research and Development program at NREL. NREL is the U.S. Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. NREL is operated for DOE by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy LLC. Wayne Hicks National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) 303-275-4084 [email protected] Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Irvine, California, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Origence, the leading lending technology solutions provider for credit unions, celebrates its 30th year of operations in 2024 reaching a historic achievement of funding $551.2 billion in loans. The company also announced its network expansion to include 20,000 auto dealerships across the U.S. serving the more than 1,100 network credit unions and their 64 million members. Throughout 2023, Origence collaborated with credit unions nationwide to serve members diverse and evolving financial needs. The collective efforts resulted in more than $59 billion funded for 2 million loans processed through Origence platforms. Origence partnered with several new strategic partners this year, including: Informed.IQ to implement document processing automation to increase funding efficiencies. Tekion to help streamline the automotive online shopping and financing experience while providing credit unions with new indirect lending opportunities. Zest to integrate its AI-automated underwriting technology with Origences consumer origination platform in ZestAuto. iCG Pay, previously iCheckGateway.com, to offer credit unions an enhanced consumer experience processing digital transaction methods in a secure online payment portal during the new account funding process. In addition to these partnerships, Origence was awarded the 2023 Credit Union Service Organization (CUSO) of the Year Distinguished Service award from the National Association of Credit Union Service Organizations (NACUSO). As we mark Origences 30th anniversary, our journey has been one of unwavering commitment to the success of our credit unions and the people they serve their members, said Tony Boutelle, President and CEO of Origence. Looking ahead, we maintain our vision to create the ultimate origination experience, making a positive impact that will be felt at every step of the financing journey. The company will celebrate its anniversary at LendingTech Live in San Diego on June 25-27th. About OrigenceOrigence provides the lending technology solutions credit unions need to advance their total origination experience. We were established in 1994 as a credit union service organization (CUSO) and have helped credit unions process more than 88 million applications, including 9 million applications in 2022. Our solutions include indirect lending, loan and account origination, auto shopping, marketing automation, lending operations, and more. Origence was named the 2023 CUSO of the Year by NACUSO. Learn more at www.origence.com and follow us on Twitter / X, LinkedIn, and Facebook. ### Alison Barksdale Origence 817-219-6281 [email protected] Source: Origence LEWISBURG, Pa., Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Playworld, a leading commercial playground equipment manufacturer, today announced the introduction of RopeScapes, a new line of rope-based playground equipment that introduces challenge and adventure to traditional play structures. The line, which combines Playworlds Quito, Naica, and Tianzi equipment, also includes the addition of ropes, nets, and climbers to create dynamic play spaces that nourish the intrepid spirit inside of children. Playworld is thrilled to introduce our new RopeScapes product line, inspired by some of the most daring places on Earth, said David Sheedy, vice president of global sales for Playworld. The line is designed to be both visually spectacular and widely adaptable to a variety of playgrounds, with endlessly customizable options and features. We expect this product launch to stir a sense of adventure inside every child who climbs aboard. RopeScapes offers a wide variety of equipment that can be customized for a unique play experience. Climbing nets come in various colors and sizes to test childrens agility and coordination. Rope bridges offer excitement, allowing children to test their balance and stability while still being safe and sturdy. Rope towers are the cornerstone of any playground, with multiple levels and features. They combine both climbing and sliding for an all-around exhilarating play experience. All features offer new sensory or physical activities to aid in the development of childrens all-around skills. Playworlds Naica, Quito, and Tianzi systems work seamlessly within the RopeScapes experience. Naica (pronounced N-EYE-kuh) is inspired by Mexicos Cave of the Crystals, combining triangular climbing nets with traditional components to encourage skill development through daring exploration. Quito (pronounced KEE-toe) is a freestanding net climber that takes kids on a journey to the center of the web. Inspired by Quito, Ecuadors capital city closest to the equator and the worlds second-highest official capital city, Quito stands a towering 15.54 (4,74m) high. With a unique, transferable design, Tianzi (tie-AN-zee) offers a challenging lineup of climbing nets that bond kids through shared challenges and triumphs. Grid-patterned rope, a rubber balance beam, a bell, and colorful flags take the fun to soaring new heights befitting its namesake, the Tianzi Mountain in the Hunan Province of China. Though crafting safe experiences is paramount in all Playworld equipment design, we know that challenging children to play adventurously feeds their development and their fun, said Sheedy. RopeScapes more than lives up to that ideal. To learn more about RopeScapes, visit Playworld.com/RopeScapes. About PlayworldPlayworld exists to unite communities through innovative and authentic play, creating equal play opportunities for all. A division of PlayPower, Inc., Playworld dedicates itself to craftsmanship, innovation and inclusive design, instilling optimism that unites communities on common ground - the playground. To learn more, visit Playworld.com. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84803db5-559d-468c-acf4-0d6a716ef2ac Media contact Jennifer Leckstrom RoseComm for Playworld [email protected] 215-681-0770 Playworld Introduces RopeScapes Playworld, a leading commercial playground equipment manufacturer, today announced the introduction of RopeScapes, a new line of rope-based playground equipment that introduces challenge and adventure to traditional play structures. Source: Playworld NEW YORK, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bernstein Liebhard LLP: Do you, or did you, own securities of Sunnova Energy International Inc. (NYSE: NOVA)? Did you purchase your securities between February 25, 2020 and December 7, 2023, inclusive? Did you lose money in your investment in Sunnova Energy International Inc.? Do you want to discuss your rights? Bernstein Liebhard LLP announces that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Sunnova Energy International Inc. (Sunnova or the Company) (NYSE: NOVA) between February 25, 2020 and December 7, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the Complaint). If you purchased or acquired Sunnova securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Sunnova Energy International Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Investor Relations Manager Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or [email protected]. According to the Complaint, Sunnova provides energy as a service in the U.S. The Company offers electricity, operations and maintenance, monitoring, repairs and replacements, equipment upgrades, on-site power optimization, and diagnostics services. As of October 2023, the Company operated a fleet of residential solar energy systems purportedly serving over 386,000 customers. In September 2023, Sunnova entered into a $3.0 billion partial loan guarantee agreement with the U.S. Department of Energys (DOE) Loan Programs Office (LPO) to support solar loans originated by Sunnova under a new solar loan channel named Project Hestia (the LPO Loan). In a press release detailing the LPO Loan, Sunnova stated that Project Hestia was expected to provide disadvantaged homeowners and communities with increased access to clean, flexible power via Sunnova services by indirectly and partially guaranteeing the cash flows associated with consumers loans and that Sunnovas purpose-built technology was designed to improve customer insights regarding their power usage and will facilitate demand response behavior. Throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Sunnova routinely engaged in predatory business practices against disadvantaged homeowners and communities, the same groups that Project Hestia was purportedly intended to benefit; and (ii) the foregoing conduct subjected the Company to a heightened risk of regulatory and/or governmental scrutiny, as well as significant reputational and/or financial harm. On December 8, 2023, Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Chair of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Senator John Barrasso, ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, sent a letter to the DOE and Sunnova seeking information related to the LPO Loan and Project Hestia following the release of the disturbing reports regarding the Company. On this news, Sunnovas stock price fell $2.00 per share, or 16.12%, to close at $10.41 per share on December 8, 2023. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 16, 2024 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesnt require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member. If you purchased or acquired Sunnova securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Sunnova Energy International Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Investor Relations Manager Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or [email protected]. Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journals Plaintiffs Hot List thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. 2024 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. Contact Information: Peter Allocco Investor Relations Manager Bernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com (212) 951-2030 [email protected] CHARLESTON, SC, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) and Competitive Markets Action (CMA), recently announced the recipients of their 2023 Congressional Awards and honored U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC, with their Leadership Award for her work to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures Commodity Checkoff Programs, and defeat the EATS Act, H.R. 4417. Mace is the lead sponsor of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act, H.R. 1249/S. 557, in the House where shes worked in bipartisan fashion alongside Rep. Dina Titus, D-NV, and Sens. Mike Lee, R-UT, Rand Paul, R-KY, Cory Booker, D-NJ, and Elizabeth Warren, D-MA, to reform the U.S. Dept. of Agricultures scandal-ridden checkoff programs that have been plagued by unethical and illegal activities for decades. This measure is backed by more than 200,000 farmers and ranchers across the country and groups like the FreedomWorks, the American Grassfed Association, Contract Poultry Growers Association of the Virginias, American Taxpayers Union, the Heritage Foundation, as well as Reps. Thomas Massie, R-KY, Alex Mooney, R-WV, Victoria Spartz, R-IN, and Mike Lawler, R-NY. OFF would reform the checkoff programs by bringing transparency and requiring the programs be audited for compliance; by prohibiting disparagement of one product over another and picking winners and losers in the marketplace; and by prohibiting checkoffs from contracting with lobbying entities like the National Cattlemens Beef Association (NCBA) who lobbied against Country-of-Origin-Labeling (COOL) and the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) who has been outspoken against state ballot measures like Californias Prop 12 that benefit American producers who practice more regenerative and sustainable agriculture. Maces campaign to reform the checkoff programs has also brought more light to controversy surrounding President Joe Biden's USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, D-IA, who has directly benefited from millions of checkoff dollars funneled into his own personal coffers, and a salary of nearly $1 million per year from Dairy Management, Inc., following his eight years as President Barack Obama's USDA Secretary, before being reappointed to the same post by Biden. Rep. Mace also co-lead a House Republican sign-on letter alongside Reps. Andrew Garbarino, R-NY, David Valadao, R-CA, and Michael Waltz, R-FL, against the so-called Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression (EATS) Act, H.R. 4417, led by Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-IA, that is designed to nullify state ballot measures across the country enacted by a direct vote of the people. Industrial agribusiness interests failed to secure the enactment of similar legislation led by former Rep. Steve King, R-IA, in the 2018 Farm Bill thanks to the work of OCM leaders and former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway, R-TX, who is currently working with the Competitive Markets Groups on the issue in 2024. In the 117th Congress, Mace also co-led the Pigs in Gestation Stalls (PIGS) Act, H.R. 7004, that would have provided more space for breeding sows in pork production facilities across the U.S., a policy similar to many of the corporate pledges made by top retailers in the last several years who are working to eliminate the use of gestation crates in U.S. pork production. American farmers and their families demand leaders with the courage to boldly defy the status quo. We stand resolute, unwavering in our refusal to be swayed by the immense power wielded by industrial agribusiness and corporate giants, said Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC. The time for unwavering conviction and decisive action is now. We applaud Rep. Mace for her tireless work, tremendous leadership, and intestinal fortitude in standing up to Chinese interests and multinational conglomerates who continue to further consolidate American agriculture, said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets and Founder of the Wyoming Independent Cattlemens Association. If Agriculture Committee leaders want to get a Farm Bill done in 2024 theyd be wise to jettison any language that nullifies state and local agriculture laws and include a provision to reform USDAs swampy checkoff slush funds. Nancy Mace is a courageous American hero with real guts and we applaud her for pushing back against the China-backed EATS Act and for leading the charge to achieve checkoff reform, said Marty Irby, President & CEO at Competitive Markets Action and Board Secretary at the Organization for Competitive Markets. American family farmers finally stand a fighting chance against the checkoff whipping boys of the four-big-packer-monopoly and multinational conglomerates like the Chinese-owned Smithfield whose purchase was financed by the Chinese Communist Party. As a proud American and lifelong producer, I proudly applaud Rep. Mace for being committed to defeating Big Ags Chinese and Brazilian backers that threaten our food supply, said Jonathan Buttram, Treasurer at the Organization for Competitive Markets, and President of the Alabama Contract Poultry Growers Association. The industrial agriculture mafia is petrified of our work because they see the writing on the wall and we hope they soon meet the same fate as New Yorks infamous Five Families. OCM and CMA also conducted its third fly-in since July of 2023 to Washington, D.C. this month and engaged in nearly 90 meetings in support of the OFF Act, checkoff reform, and against the EATS Act, H.R. 4417/S. 2019, during those events. The Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The foundation of the Organization for Competitive Markets is to fight for competitive markets in agriculture for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. True competition reduces the need for economic regulation. Our mission, and our duty, is to define and advocate the proper role of government in the agricultural economy as a regulator and enforcer of rules necessary for markets that are fair, honest, accessible and competitive for all citizens. Competitive Markets Action (CMA) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit based in Washington, D.C., that was formed with the mission of shaping policy to promote more regenerative and sustainable agriculture, and competitive markets in the U.S., and to defend against attacks on states rights by the federal government. CMA works to raise awareness of the harm caused by multinational conglomerates to the American family farmer, the consumer and our U.S. economy as a whole in an effort to bring about legislative and regulatory reforms. Attachments Marty Irby Competitive Markets Action 202-821-5686 [email protected] Source: Competitive Markets Action NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE US OR THROUGH US NEWSWIRE SERVICES VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vizsla Silver Corp. (TSX-V: VZLA) (NYSE: VZLA) (Frankfurt: 0G3) (Vizsla Silver or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with PI Financial Corp. as sole bookrunner and lead underwriter, on its own behalf and on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (the Underwriters), pursuant to which the Underwriters have agreed to purchase, on a bought deal basis, 20,000,000 common shares (the Shares) of the Company at a price of $1.50 per Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $30,000,000 (the Offering), excluding additional proceeds raised from the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option (defined below). The Company has agreed to grant the Underwriters an option to cover over-allotments (the Over-Allotment Option), which will allow the Underwriters to purchase up to an additional 15% of the Shares sold pursuant to the Offering, on the same terms as the Offering. The Over-Allotment Option may be exercised in whole or in part at any time, for a period of 30 days after the Closing Date (as defined herein). The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to advance the exploration, drilling and development of the Companys Panuco Project, as well as for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Shares will be offered in each of the provinces and territories of Canada (other than the Province of Quebec) by way of a prospectus supplement to the Companys base shelf prospectus dated March 31, 2023, which will be filed with the securities regulators in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, and may also be offered by way of private placement in the United States and such other jurisdictions as agreed between the parties. The closing of the Offering is anticipated to occur on or about February 29, 2024 (the Closing Date) and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. 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 jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About the Panuco project The newly consolidated Panuco silver-gold project is an emerging high-grade discovery located in southern Sinaloa, Mexico, near the city of Mazatlan. The 7,189.5 hectare, past producing district benefits from over 86 kilometres of total vein extent, 35 kilometres of underground mines, roads, power, and permits. The district contains intermediate to low sulfidation epithermal silver and gold deposits related to siliceous volcanism and crustal extension in the Oligocene and Miocene. Host rocks are mainly continental volcanic rocks correlated to the Tarahumara Formation. On January 8, 2024, the Company announced an updated mineral resource estimate for Panuco which includes an estimated in-situ indicated mineral resource of 155.8 Moz AgEq and an in-situ inferred resource of 169.6 Moz AgEq. The indicated mineral resource is estimated at 9.5 million tonnes (Mt) grading 289 grams per tonne (g/t) silver, 2.41 g/t gold, 0.27% lead, and 0.84% zinc (511 g/t silver equivalent). The mineral resource estimate includes indicated mineral resources of 88.2 million ounces (Moz) of silver, 736 thousand ounces (koz) of gold, 25.4 kilotonnes (kt) of lead, and 79.9 kt of zinc (155.8 Moz AgEq). The inferred mineral resource is estimated at 12.2 Mt grading 239 g/t silver, 1.93 g/t gold, 0.29% lead, and 1.03% zinc (433 g/t AgEq). The mineral resource estimate includes inferred mineral resources of 93.7 Moz of silver, 758 koz of gold, 35.4 kt of lead, and 125.3 kt of zinc (169.6 Moz AgEq). Silver equivalent is calculated using the following formula: AgEq = Ag ppm + (((Au ppm x Au price/gram) + (Pb% x Pb price/t) + (Zn% x Zn price/t))/Ag price/gram). Metal price assumptions are $24.00/oz silver, $1,800/oz gold, $2,425/t lead and $2,976/t zinc. About Vizsla Silver Vizsla Silver is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company headquartered in Vancouver, BC, focused on advancing its flagship, 100%-owned Panuco silver-gold project located in Sinaloa, Mexico. To date, Vizsla Silver has completed over 350,000 metres of drilling at Panuco leading to the discovery of several new high-grade veins. For 2024, Vizsla Silver is focused on de-risking the resource base located in the western portion of the district ahead of a development decision. Additionally, Vizsla Silver has budgeted +65,000 metres of resource/discovery-based drilling designed to upgrade and expand the Projects mineral resource, as well as test other high priority targets across the district. In accordance with NI 43-101, Jesus Velador, Ph.D. MMSA QP, Vice President of Exploration, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release. Contact Information: For more information and to sign-up to the mailing list, please contact: Michael Konnert, President and Chief Executive Officer Tel: (604) 364-2215 Email: [email protected] Website: www.vizslasilvercorp.ca Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS The information contained herein contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, planned exploration activities. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects, is expected, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, or believes or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements relating to: the filing of a prospectus supplement for the Offering, the timing, structure, activities and completion of the Offering; the use of proceeds from the Offering, the Over-Allotment Option; and exploration and development at Panuco. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of the Company, future growth potential for the Company and its business, and future exploration plans are based on managements reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on managements experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of silver, gold, and other metals; no escalation in the severity of public health crises; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Companys ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. These statements reflect the Companys respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the Companys dependence on one mineral project; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Companys mining activities in Mexico; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Companys management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Companys inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Companys interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Companys ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; ongoing military conflicts around the world; general economic factors; and the factors identified under the caption Risk Factors in the Companys management discussion and analysis and other public disclosure documents. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by 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 forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws. Source: PI Financial Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Altima Resources Ltd.(TSXV:ARH) (FSE:AKC) (OTC Pink:ARSLF)(the "Company" or the "Altima")announces that after a thorough review of non-producing wells in the Red Earth area, in Alberta, Altima has identified (3) three additional Keg River wells to bring on production. Work on the 3 wells has begun and is expected to be completed in several days. This will bring the producing total number of wells to (7) seven. The Company will be sequentially placing these wells back into production, all of which are connected to the Altima Panny Pipeline, and flow through the Pipeline to the 3-11 Blue Sky processing facility. The Panny Pipeline continues to provide the Company sustainable, year-round production capability from the Panny Field. The Company is also adding equipment at the 3-11 Blue Sky processing facility to facilitate more accurate measurement of the production flowing through the Altima Panny Pipeline. This work is expected to be completed within two weeks. The Company has completed a workover on the 11-22-31-24 W4M well in the Twining Field, as well as completing the acquisition of Primrose Drilling Ventures Ltd. and is in the process of reviewing potential additional production from the existing Primrose assets. Mr. Devries commented "We are very encouraged in this next step towards creating multiple long-term, sustainable, economic production." Jamie Carlson, P.Eng is the Practicing Professional Engineer responsible for reviewing and approving the data contained in this press release. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD SIGNED: "Joe DeVries" Joe DeVries, Interim CEO and President Contact: (604) 336-8610 Forward Statements: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include risks relating to: availability of capital and financing required to continue the Company's exploration and development plans; general economic, market or business conditions; the actual results of current and planned exploration activities; fluctuating commodity prices; risks associated with property option agreements, leases, joint ventures and the ability to conclude joint venture agreements on favorable terms; possibility of accidents, equipment breakdowns and delays during exploration; exploration cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; regulatory changes and restrictions including in relation to environmental liability; timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. 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/198783 Germany, 1960. A 15-year-old Priscilla (played by Cailee Spaeny) stares into nothingness, laid out on her bed in a room that befits her age and era: floral wallpaper, cherry-colored nail polish, a glass jewelry box in the shape of a heart, pages torn from fashion magazines and a small porcelain tea set. But theres one detail that sets the scene apart; the military jacket that Elvis Presley wore during his years of military service in West Germany, testament to the romance that Priscilla and the king of rock sparked a few months back. With this set design in the first moments of the biopic Priscilla, perhaps more in keeping as a Pinterest moodboard than a set design for a feature film, Sofia Coppola quenched her fans thirst. The movie tells the story of the relationship between Priscilla and Elvis Presley from their first meeting in Europe until their separation, thanks to a script based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me by Priscilla Beaulieu, who is also a producer of the film. Cailee Spaeny, Sofia Coppolas Priscilla, in her teenage years in Germany. Courtesy of A24. This nearly obsessive preciousness with which Coppolas films pose for the camera, that sense that the viewer is beholding a series of still photos, has been an unmistakable (and for fans, intensely expected) trademark of Coppola since she rose to fame with The Virgin Suicides. She defined the modern-day use of the term aesthetic that so dominates TikTok, decades before the social network even existed. And in her detailed universe, featuring a color palette faithful to William Eggleston (Coppola cites the photographers work as one of her most important references), sugary songs from the past (from Brenda Lee to Tommy James & The Shondells, not to mention a version of Baby I Love by The Ramones) and shots that linger on and on, costumes are just another tool Coppola uses to build her characters emotional side. Perhaps the filmmaker is the only one capable of bringing her vibe to any historical period she feels like: witness the pearly gothic that envelops the Civil War in The Beguiled (2017), the kinderwhore candor of the dresses in The Virgin Suicides (1999), the punk twist of Marie Antoinette (2006) and the logomania of The Bling Ring (2013). But let us return to this waiting game in Germany. Compared to the universe of pastels and frills that reign in her bedroom, Pricillas wardrobe, save for a heart choker that she wears throughout the film (available as official merch from the movies production company A24) and a Bulova watch that Elvis gifts her, is limited to boring garments in dull hues. They stand in stark contrast with the whims of fashion magazines in the consumerist America where she fantasizes about reuniting with her love. I want to feel sad in Germany and like the sun comes out in Memphis, were the directions that Coppola gave to Stacey Battat regarding the emotions that should be transmitted through Battats wardrobe design. Guided by this premise, the designer, who has been a Coppola collaborator since Somewhere (2010), tells EL PAIS that each piece of clothing the character wears, from her adolescence up to her last days in Graceland, plays a decisive role in the storys framing of Priscilla. When Priscilla was young and shes in Germany, I wanted to dressed her with more ample skirts, flouncy crinolines that formed her childhood silhouette. The same thing happens as she gets older; I worked with the eras styles, like straight and pencil skirts that establish her place in the story. I wanted to make sure that you could understand that change through her clothes. Color, says Battat, was also a crucial element in both portraying the historical moment and the evolution of the films protagonist. While shes in Germany, Priscilla limits herself to wearing grays and pastel pinks, a reflection of her age and state of mind. When we arrive in Memphis, those colors become more saturated and go from pink to coral to yellow, the contrast between how young and innocent she is at the films beginning with how she becomes [Elviss] ideal, until she finally finds herself, Battat told the newspaper. Priscillas closet, then, reflects Coppolas poetic depiction of the characters coming of age. Polka dot crop top and full skirt: the triumphant arrival of Priscilla to Las Vegas and her new life. For the wardrobe planning to stay loyal to each eras style, exhaustive archival work was required. I saw so many photos of Elvis and Priscilla, I consulted the textile library at the Met [New York Citys Metropolitan Museum of Art] to see the eras fabrics and page through a ton of magazines, she says. The fruits of this labor can be seen, for one, in the 1950s full-skirted, two-piece look with matching polka-dot crop top that Priscilla wears for her triumphant arrival to Las Vegas. I saw a similar-looking model in a Vogue magazine from that era and I was surprised, it seems too daring to be from 1962. I thought it would be wonderful to use that kind of look to reflect the moment in which a young person of her age begins to try new things, like traveling to Las Vegas for the first time, says Battat in a recent interview. More than 120 garments and accessories inspired by the different eras that appear in the film, from the 50s New Look silhouette to the floaty maxi-dresses that were all the rage at the start of the 70s, the moment in which the couple splits, articulated Priscillas closet, which grows in sophistication and complexity, just like her. The majority of the clothes, explains Battat, were made to fit instead of using vintage pieces, for one simple reason: When you are trying to be specific, its more efficient to create the clothes than come across them. You dont always find what you want and from the economic point of view, its also more affordable. A massive bouffant, black eyeliner and false eyelashes accompany Priscilla, even on the day her water breaks. Courtesy of A24. Although the film does feature some of the original outfits worn by Priscilla in those years a baby pink dress that she wears to Elviss departure from Germany, for example Beaulieu didnt get too involved in the movies wardrobe. It was Coppola who pulled strings to land the aesthetic that accompanies each character, with such control that Battat confesses to not having read Priscillas biography so as not to be influenced by it. The important thing is to develop the character visually, so I wanted to stay true to the script and not be conditioned by what the book said. My intention was always to interpret Priscillas wardrobe, rather than recreate it. There are big gaps in the photographic references, and this film is about her private lives, which is the undocumented part, so it was important to be able to imagine what she was like. Such is the case for the bedroom scenes between the two protagonists (a sweet spot for Coppola, as can be seen in the communal beds of The Virgin Suicides, Lost in Translation and The Beguiled) or the shots of the hair salon, where Battat let herself be guided by her intuition, taking certain creative liberties to achieve the right feeling for the character. Reality and fiction, side by side: Priscilla and Elviss 1967 wedding. Getty Images and A24. One exception is the couples wedding outfits, perhaps their most famous real-life look, which they wore to the ceremony that shook the world in May 1967. Battat says that she had never seen Priscillas original dress in person when she collaborated with Chanel to make her bridal look. They recreated the gown, inch-by-inch, from photographs. I went through some of Virgine [Viard, current creative director at Chanel]s oldest collections until I found the lace that I wanted the Chanel team to work with, she says. Valentino designed the grooms suit, which was also a replica of the original, and it came with a tag featuring Elviss name sewn inside the jacket alongside that of the Italian fashion house. It was a dream working with Valentino, says Battat. Nonetheless, the uniform that Priscillas wears to Catholic school in Memphis is one of Battats favorites out of all the films outfits. We made them based on the original from Immaculate Conception High School. I love that the color is otherworldly, but the costume itself is so ordinary, kind of like Priscillas experiences, she says on her Instagram account, referring to how the character graduated, fell in love and simply grew up. Perhaps Priscilla led a glamourous life at night, with lots of polish and eyeliner, but during the day, she had to dress like everyone else. Priscilla is a normal girl, but she lives an extraordinary life, says Battat. The wardrobe designers work reinforces the narrative thread of the toxic relationship, a dysfunction that led to Priscillas breakup and exit. Amid so many false lashes, nail lacquer and 70s shine, the New York filmmakers movie is a denouncement of the abuses that Priscilla says she lived during the relationship, from infidelities to physical and psychological abuse, her introduction to drugs and humiliations that took place in the privacy of their home. Dont wear anything brown, it reminds me of the army, dye your hair black and wear more makeup and dont wear prints are some of the orders that, the movie reveals, Elvis used to mold his spouse as though she were his doll. All this uncovers a side of the artist that is much darker, more toxic. Battat had all this in the forefront of her mind and played a central role in crafting the attention-grabbing transformation that Priscilla undergoes, using a vertiginous bouffant and excessive cat eye, created by British makeup artist Jo-Ann MacNeil, who is nominated for a Critics Choice for her work. Aesthetic also serves as revenge when the relationship ends. Thats when Priscilla appears bare-faced, her skin finally natural, with a simple shirt and pants, having left the glamour behind. You have everything a woman could want, blurts out Elvis, uncomprehendingly. Everything, except the most important thing. Youre losing me for a life of my own, Priscilla tells him. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE" or "the Exchange") today welcomed the listing of Black Gold Exploration Corp. The company's common shares began trading on the CSE earlier today under the symbol BGX. Black Gold Exploration, based in Vancouver, is an oil and gas exploration company focused on advancing its El Carmen property in Argentina's Chubut province. The company's exploration program has an estimated budget of approximately $600,000. "Oil and gas companies have been an important cohort of the CSE since the Exchange's inception, and we are thrilled to be the exchange of choice for the Black Gold Exploration team," said James Black, the CSE's Vice President, Listings Development. "We are pleased to welcome BGX, which provides investors with another interesting early-stage opportunity in the sector." About the Canadian Securities Exchange: The Canadian Securities Exchange is a rapidly growing exchange invested in working with entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors to access public capital markets in Canada. The Exchange's efficient operating model, advanced technology and competitive fee structure help its listed issuers of all sectors and sizes minimize their cost of capital and enhance global liquidity. Our client-centric approach and corresponding products and services ensure businesses have the support they need to confidently realize their vision. The CSE offers global investors access to an innovative collection of growing and mature companies. STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CSE ============================= Website: https://thecse.com/ Blog: https://blog.thecse.com/ CSE TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/csetv CSE's "The Exchange for Entrepreneurs"" Podcast: https://blog.thecse.com/category/cse-podcast/ Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/canadian-securities-exchange Twitter: https://twitter.com/CSE_News Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianexchange/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanadianSecuritiesExchange/ Contact: Richard Carleton, CEO 416-367-7360 [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198816 London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Caring for Care Limited, a leading provider of accredited healthcare training programmes, is pleased to announce its upcoming Clinical Week taking place 5-9 March 2024 in London. Clinical Week will feature specialised courses in critical classroom-based competencies for nurses, healthcare assistants and other support workers in clinical settings. "We are thrilled to offer this focused series of advanced clinical trainings as part of our ongoing commitment to equipping healthcare professionals with the latest skills and knowledge," said Femi, Digital Sales Optimiser at Caring for Care Limited. "Whether managing complex conditions like diabetes or performing vital procedures like tracheostomy care, our Clinical Week courses will enable participants to deliver the very best evidence-based care." Courses utilise specialised manikins to create realistic clinical scenarios for hands-on skill development. Participants are guided by our patient and experienced tutors who have over 20 years of clinical practice in their specialty areas. Caring for Care Limited has trained over 20,000 nurses and healthcare professionals annually across sites in London, Stoke-on-Trent and other locations throughout the UK. The organisation has received over 6,100 reviews for its high-quality clinical skills training. Clinical Week courses include: Peg Feeding Training - 4 March 2024 Tracheostomy Training - 5 March 2024 Catheterisation Training - 6 March 2024 Venepuncture & Cannulation - 7 March 2024 Diabetes Medication - 8 March 2024 Basic Life Support Training - 9 March 2024 Caring for Care Limited provides onsite training and blended training solutions aimed at enhancing competency, safety and quality of care. For more details on Clinical Week please call 01782 563333, or send an email to: [email protected]. To register for clinical courses within London, visit https://caringforcare.co.uk/our-training-venues/london/. Contact Information: Femi Lawore Digital Sales Optimiser [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/196634 A First of its Kind AI Application in Higher Learning Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Artificial Intelligence is making its way into North American institutions of higher learning. ConverSolo Inc., the AI language learning software company, reports that it has been contracted by Montmorency College, Vanier College, and the University of Sherbrooke, all Quebec-based institutions, to develop AI-powered learning materials through its Bokomaru Publications business division. At Montmorency College, ConverSolo Inc. will provide Learning Tool Interoperability (LTI) links to conversational robots which will integrate with the college's Moodle website. ConverSolo is to supply 10 LTI modules that will automatically generate a score and video-feedback to students on their performance on communication tasks related to insurance and finance. The AI-powered solution will provide students with interactive oral practice using their webcams and intelligent video-feedback on interactions with simulated clients. To ensure students meet the performance standards, students will practice with listen-and-repeat exercises before receiving feedback on the comprehensibility of industry keywords, overall sentence comprehensibility, phoneme accuracy, and rate of speech. The contract is believed to be among the first of its kind in the North American educational milieu. "Montmorency chose us to develop the AI-powered training materials after an exhaustive search for a supplier. We were the only company that was able to offer the kind of intelligent oral tutoring system that they were seeking," said ConverSolo and Bokomaru CEO, Nicholas Walker. ConverSolo has been engaged by Vanier College in a pilot project to develop custom AI-powered writing and speaking tutoring systems for students learning their second language. Similarly, the University of Sherbrooke has tasked ConverSolo to create language training activities on Labodanglais.com to prepare students for teacher certification on a province-wide English proficiency test. Using a blend of artificial intelligence to score complex writing tasks and more traditional language training activities online, ConverSolo is able to support learners develop complex skills quickly and asynchronously. Bokomaru Publications, a business division of ConverSolo Inc., was founded in 2010. It specializes in offering automated evaluation and AI-powered intelligent tutoring systems like VirtualWritingTutor.com and Labodanglais.com. In addition to being CEO of ConverSolo Inc., Nicholas Walker is a professor at Collge Ahuntsic in Montreal. Nicholas Walker has an M.A. in Applied Linguistics. He is a five-time award-winning instructional designer. He has been awarded the Canadian Sesquicentennial Pin for leadership in Education, the TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) Canada Innovation Award, the SPEAQ Award for outstanding contributions to ESL, the AQPC Mention dHonneur for teaching excellence and, the Institutional Recognition for Computer Assisted Learning. ConverSolo, through its various websites, currently has 75,000 memberships (free and paid), 100,000 users per month, and 1 million visitors per year. His software can also score essays, stories, cover letters, emails and literary critiques with 340 unique automated writing evaluations. About ConverSolo: ConverSolo Inc. is a private, Montreal-based company that has developed an AI-powered learning software that teaches users pronunciation within an oral exchange, one of the key factors in successful language acquisition. This powerful web-based software is in the process of being scaled up to address the needs of consumers and a broad range of industries that will include the development of a consumer-market website and mobile app. ConverSolo currently provides consumers, students and teachers with on-line language learning software powered by AI-modules, offered through VirtualWritingTutor.com and Labodanglais.com, LabodeFrancais.com. The company also publishes and markets print-based and on-line textbooks for students and teachers. For more information on the technology, please contact Nicholas Walker: [email protected] T. +1-514-690-2953 For investor and media relations, please contact Robert Kramberger: [email protected] T +1-514-758-8080 Website: www.conversolo.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198726 Brussels, Belgium--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - The International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) announced today the publication of the first International Aerospace (IA) standard, IA9137": Guidance for the Application of AQAP 2110 within a 9100 Quality Management System. SAE International, the organization's partner in developing international standards, has released IA9137 globally. This standard provides guidance intended to help an organization understand the relationship between Allied Quality Assurance Publication (AQAP) 2110 "NATO Quality Assurance Requirements for Design, Development and Production" and AS/EN/JISQ9100 "Quality Management Systems Requirements for Aviation, Space and Defense Organizations." Through the IAQG/SAE Standards Development and Publications Agreement, the aerospace industry can turn to SAE or one of its many global resellers to purchase the IA9137, including new and/or newly revised 91xx series standards. As part of this agreement, SAE is publishing IA9137 simultaneously in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Korean. Eric Jefferies, the President of IAQG, explained that the purpose of this agreement was to simplify the development and publication process by utilizing a single, common workflow. "This approach enhances our speed to market while improving the management of global distribution. In addition to these benefits, we are witnessing the first standard to be published globally in multiple languages on the same day." "The publication of IA9137 is a testament to the long-standing relationship between IAQG and SAE and the worldwide consensus we foster. Through this new process and the SAE StandardsWorks 2.0 platform, the truly global aerospace community is able to collaborate directly and efficiently on the standards which uphold quality across the industry," said David Alexander, senior director of aerospace standards at SAE International. For more information about IA9137: Guidance for the Application of AQAP 2110 within a 9100 Quality Management System or to purchase the standard, visit the IA landing page https://www.sae.org/iaqg. Previously released IAQG standards will transition from sector designations of AS, EN, SJAC or JISQ to the new singular designation at the time of revision. IAQG currently maintains 26 active standards that establish common/shared tools and methods for quality improvement. To learn more, visit https://iaqg.org. ### About the International Aerospace Quality Group:/ As an international non-profit association under Belgian law with an office registered in Brussels (Belgium),/the IAQG sets the standard for quality within the worldwide supply chain of the aerospace industry. The organization/is comprised of member companies within the aviation, space and defense industries that design, develop, manufacture and support original equipment at system or subsystem levels. The IAQG is committed to establishing commonality of quality systems and improvement standards./ These standards are documented, published and applied internationally by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and circulated throughout the supply chain. To learn more, visit/https://iaqg.org./ About SAE International SAE International is a global association committed to advancing mobility knowledge and solutions for the benefit of humanity. By engaging nearly 200,000 engineers, technical experts and volunteers, we connect and educate mobility professionals to enable safe, clean, and accessible mobility solutions. We act on two priorities: encouraging a lifetime of learning for mobility engineering professionals and setting the standards for industry engineering. We strive for a better world through the work of our philanthropic SAE Foundation, including award-winning programs like A World In Motion and the Collegiate Design Series". More at www.sae.org. Contact: Susan Matson IAQG 484.832.5176 [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198753 Leonard Financial Solutions introduces a pioneering retirement planning tool, blending growth and protection strategies, aimed at empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals for retirement. New Jersey, United States--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2024) - Leonard Financial Solutions, a provider of retirement planning services, is proud to introduce a revolutionary retirement income planning tool. With a focus on personalized guidance and a comprehensive approach to financial security, this new tool, "Two-Bucket Strategy," is designed to empower individuals toward a secure and fulfilling retirement. Leonard Financial Solutions Introduces Innovative Retirement Planning Tool To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/198690_25ffd59754add8fc_002full.jpg The primary goal of Leonard Financial Solutions' new retirement income planning tool is to help individuals effectively plan for and achieve their retirement income goals. This innovative tool achieves this by employing a unique framework centered around two distinct buckets: the Growth Bucket and the Protected Bucket. The Growth Bucket: The Growth Bucket within the retirement income planning tool focuses on accumulating assets and generating potential growth. These products may include: Stocks: Providing the possibility of gradual growth over an extended period. Mutual Funds: Diversified investment options aimed at delivering capital appreciation. Bonds: Provides balance in most portfolios for volatility. The Protected Bucket: In contrast, the Protected Bucket is designed to prioritize the security and protection of the principal/premium. This bucket includes products that aim to offer stability, protection against market volatility, and a focus on preserving capital. Customers can find peace of mind with products such as: Fixed Index Annuities CDs (Certificates of Deposit): Providing a secure, fixed-interest investment with principal protection. Bank Money Market Accounts and Cash Founder Jonathan Leonard was recently interviewed on this topic on the Business Innovators Radio Network, where he discussed the importance of incorporating protected income strategies for retirees. Clients can access Leonard Financial Solutions' cutting-edge retirement income planning tool through a team of experienced financial professionals. By engaging in comprehensive discussions and consultations, individuals can tailor a retirement income plan aligned with their needs, preferences, and risk tolerance. Its holistic approach to retirement income planning sets Leonard Financial Solutions apart. Individuals can benefit from a balanced and customized approach to securing retirement income by integrating growth-oriented and protected assets within a comprehensive framework. Additionally, their team's commitment to personalized guidance and support ensures that customers receive tailored solutions that address their unique financial circumstances and aspirations for retirement. With a focus on education, transparency, and customer-centric service, Leonard Financial Solutions is a trusted partner in guiding individuals toward a financially secure retirement. The new retirement income planning tool offered by Leonard Financial Solutions represents a significant advancement in empowering individuals to achieve their retirement goals. By embracing a balanced approach to growth and protection, individuals can confidently navigate retirement planning, ensuring a fulfilling and financially secure future. https://youtu.be/jy-JxJ-x0sE About Leonard Financial Solutions: Jonathan Leonard founded Leonard Financial Solutions in 2017 out of his strong desire to improve the lives of everyone he meets. Leonard Financial Solutions' primary focus is retirement planning for people ages 55 and over. Jonathan has worked for non-profit companies and church ministries in the past, and the company is committed to donating 10% of all their profits to 501c3 charities and organizations. Leonard Financial Solutions has clients nationwide and is licensed in all 50 states. Learn More at Leonard Financial Solutions Contact Info: Name: Jonathan Leonard Email: [email protected] Organization: Leonard Financial Solutions Website: https://www.leonardfinancialsolutions.com/ Video URL: https://youtu.be/jy-JxJ-x0sE To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198690 From AI insights to precious metals, a partnership pioneering financial evolution. Tampa, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - February 20, 2024) - Quasar Markets, a leading AI-driven financial market research platform, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Ausecure, a tech company renowned for offering tangible investment opportunities in precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. Quasar Markets Announces Strategic Partnership with Ausecure To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/197870_9d5e79ade4f4bb5f_002full.jpg This partnership is poised to revolutionize the way investors approach the precious metals market, combining Quasar Markets' cutting-edge artificial intelligence research capabilities with Ausecure's robust platform for trading in gold, silver, and platinum. In a statement, Steven E. Orr, Founder & CEO of Quasar Markets, expressed his excitement about the partnership: "This collaboration with Ausecure marks a significant milestone in our journey to integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional investment avenues. By leveraging future tech, we aim to enhance the value and accessibility of investing in precious metals, making it a more attractive option for our clients. Together, we are setting a new standard for innovation and excellence in the financial industry." Peter Thomas Chairman at Ausecuere is very excited about the technical outcomes from the potential partnership. "This means we are offering innovative and secure options with hard assets for individuals aiming to safeguard their wealth against the uncertainties of the markets during this critical election year." Hadi Saeid, Founder of Ausecure, also commented on the partnership stating, "Our partnership with Quasar Markets is about enhancing access and democratizing ownership of physically backed assets like gold and silver." About Quasar Markets Quasar Markets offers innovative solutions for researching financial markets, providing unparalleled insights and personalized client experiences. With a next-gen AI & Web3 platform and strategic partnerships with industry leaders, Quasar Markets is reimagining the future of finance. For more information, visit: https://quasarmarkets.com/. About Ausecure Founded in 2009 at the CME Group, Ausecure is a buyer and seller of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The company focuses on providing competent 2-way markets in metals, characterized by its commitment to discretion, precision, and efficient execution. Contact Info: Name: Steven E. Orr Email: [email protected] Organization: Quasar Markets Address: Wesley Chapel, Florida 33543, US Phone: +1 (202) 841-9009 Website: http://www.quasarmarkets.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/197870 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 19, 2024) - In response to the increase in mortgage rates challenging small landlords across Ontario, Royal York Property Management, an industry leader in the property management sector, is introducing innovative measures to alleviate these pressures. Nathan Levinson - Founder and President, Royal York Property Management To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10282/198192_nathan_levinson_-_founder_and_president_-_royal_york_property_management1_1_550.jpg With a robust portfolio of over 22,000 properties valued at more than CA$10.1 billion, the company is at the forefront of supporting the small landlord community as they represent over 50% of its clientele. These landlords, who typically manage between 1 and 5 properties, are facing unprecedented financial strain as they struggle to balance the stringent legal responsibilities of being a landlord with personal financial needs. Nathan Levinson, the founder and president of Royal York Property Management, is deeply committed to aiding these essential contributors to the Ontario real estate market during these critical times. Levinson expresses concern for landlords caught between adhering to higher regulatory standards and sustaining their livelihood. "The current financial landscape poses a formidable challenge to landlords, forcing them to navigate between their legal obligations and their families' well-being," Levinson remarks. He highlights the unique position of Royal York Property Management in offering cost-effective, in-house maintenance services - a stark contrast to the industry norm of outsourcing at higher costs. This initiative covers a wide range of services, including plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, painting, and cleaning, thereby preventing potential disputes and legal issues with tenants. Addressing the financial strain on landlords, Levinson has taken a remarkable step by launching a financing program that covers the cost of all necessary repairs, ensuring landlords can meet their obligations without compromising their financial health. This pledge is part of a broader commitment by Royal York to support the small landlord community holistically, recognizing their pivotal role in providing housing and contributing to Ontario's economy. Levinson's dedication extends to financial assistance, as he is personally funding over CA$1.5 million in aid through a mortgage relief pilot program, building on Royal York Property Management's successful track record in helping property owners keep up with payments. With an additional CA$3 million pledged over the next 12 months, Royal York Property Management continues to stand by Ontario's small landlords, offering tailored solutions to ensure their sustainability in a fluctuating market. As Royal York Property Management continues to set benchmarks in the industry by supporting small landlords, it reinforces the importance of community and resilience in the face of economic challenges. For more details on Royal York's extensive services, including maintenance and financial assistance programs, please visit www.RoyalYorkPropertyManagement.ca or reach out 24/7 at 416-508-5288. This strategic approach, emphasizing personalized support and financial relief, positions Royal York Property Management as a pillar of strength for small landlords. Through its new initiatives, Royal York Property Management continues to demonstrate its dedication to the financial recovery of small landlords and the long-term vitality of Ontario's real estate sector. About Royal York Property Management Royal York Property Management ("RYPM") is a property management and leasing company headquartered in Ontario, Canada. RYPM places a strong emphasis on innovation and technological advancements to provide efficient, swift, and dependable services. Founded in 2010, the company boasts a diverse portfolio, managing over 22,000 properties across North America. RYPM has since broadened its reach beyond Ontario, establishing international offices in countries including Kosovo, Poland, India, and Germany. Committed to convenience and unparalleled customer care, the company operates on a 24/7 service model, ensuring landlords and tenants have continuous access to essential services at any time. For more information or to request interviews, please contact us at [email protected] or visit us at: https://royalyorkpropertymanagement.ca/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198192 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Safe Supply Streaming Co. Ltd. (CSE: SPLY ) ( FSE: QM4) (OTCQB: SSPLF) ("Safe Supply" or "the Company")applauds the British Columbia Naturopathic Doctors (BCND) Association for its proactive stance on advancing prescription powers for naturopathic doctors in British Columbia. This initiative marks a crucial step towards integrating safer supply and medication-assisted treatments for substance-use disorders, highlighting the potential for naturopathic doctors to play a vital role in the response to this public health emergency. Safe Supply is at the forefront of this movement, engaging in active discussions with several clinics across British Columbia and Ontario. The Company is strategically positioning itself as the preferred supplier in anticipation of the expansion of prescribing powers within the naturopathic community. Furthermore, Safe Supply is exploring opportunities for clinic roll-ups and acquisitions, aiming to enhance its ecosystem and bolster its commitment to addressing the toxic drug crisis effectively. The B.C. Naturopathic Doctors Association has reported significant interest in the topic among its members, with over 250 naturopathic doctors enrolling in a provincial education and training program to prescribe medications commonly used for opioid use disorder, such as methadone. This initiative reflects the community's dedication to being part of a comprehensive solution to the crisis. To date, fifty members across thirty communities have commenced their training, underscoring the urgency and commitment of the naturopathic profession to contribute meaningfully to this public health challenge. In response to this initiative, Vanessa Lindsay, BCND President, has reached out to the B.C. Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, advocating for the necessary changes to allow naturopathic doctors to prescribe medications for substance-use disorders. This proposal has been forwarded to Health Minister Adrian Dix, indicating a positive step towards legislative and regulatory support for this critical issue. Recent studies, including a population-level evaluation published in the British Medical Journal, have demonstrated the efficacy of prescribing pharmaceutical alternatives to illicit drugs in reducing overdose deaths and related harms. Despite the clear benefits, access to these prescriptions remains limited, with a vast majority of individuals who use illicit drugs in B.C. unable to access prescribed alternatives. Safe Supply is committed to being an integral part of the solution, working closely with healthcare providers, clinics, and regulatory bodies to expand access to safer supply options. As the discussion progresses, Safe Supply remains dedicated to supporting efforts that lead to tangible changes in policy and practice, ultimately contributing to the health and well-being of communities across British Columbia and Ontario. Safety Strips Stake Acquisition Safe Supply also provides more details about its recently announced acquisition of a 7% interest in Safety Strips Tech Corp. ("Safety Strips"), the pioneering harm reduction company (see Press Release dated February 8, 2024). Safe Supply Streaming will acquire a seven percent (7%) equity interest in Safety Strips Tech Corp. for $50,000 cash and three million (3,000,000) common shares in Safe Supply for a total value of $300,000 (C$0.10 per share) to compensate for the minority interest acquisition of Safety Strips Tech Corp. The CEO of Safe Supply, Bill Panagiotakopoulos, independently owns approximately 4,000,000 shares or 7.5% of Safety Strips Tech Corp. Safe Supply's access to Safety Strip's founder round underscores the tangible value Safe Supply provides to companies emerging to tackle the opioid crisis. It showcases Safe Supply's proprietary model of incubating, accelerating & partnering with companies to earn significant equity stakes in companies with significant prospects which is reflective in Safe Supply being awarded the opportunity to invest in Safety Strips at $5 million valuation, a company that is led by a serial entrepreneur and former public co-CEO, with a distribution agreement with a USA and active discussions with retailers. As the fentanyl crisis continues to widen, Safety Strips is well positioned to lead in the development of harm reduction technologies. This acquisition marks a significant step forward in addressing the escalating overdose crisis, positioning Safe Supply Streaming at the forefront of the emerging medical testing market. About Safe Supply Safe Supply Streaming is a public company committed to improving public health outcomes through strategic investments in harm reduction and medical technology. With a focus on innovative solutions and partnerships, Safe Supply Streaming aims to address critical health crises and offer meaningful, life-saving interventions. Learn more at www.safesupply.com and follow Safe Supply on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. For Further Information: Bill Panagiotakopoulos CEO and Director (305) 335-8214 [email protected] Media contacts: McKenna Miller KCSA Strategic Communications [email protected] Forward-Looking Information and Statements Certain statements in this news release related to Safe Supply and Origin are forward-looking statements and are prospective in nature, including but not limited to the express or implied statements and assumptions regarding the intention of Origin and Safe Supply to complete the Transaction. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "could", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "will" or "continue", or the negative thereof or similar variations. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and Origin's and Safe Supply's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information, including but not limited to adverse market conditions and risks inherent in Origin's and Safe Supply's respective businesses. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this press release. Except as required by applicable law, Origin and Safe Supply do not intend to update these forward-looking statements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, there can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed, or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular and/or listing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Origin should be considered highly speculative. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy hereof. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198734 All financial figures are in Canadian dollars. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 21, 2024) - Suncor Energy's (TSX: SU) (NYSE: SU) Board of Directors has approved a quarterly dividend of $0.545 per share on its common shares, payable March 25, 2024 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 4, 2024. Suncor Energy is Canada's leading integrated energy company. Suncor's operations include oil sands development, production and upgrading; offshore oil production; petroleum refining in Canada and the U.S.; and the company's Petro-CanadaTM retail and wholesale distribution networks (including Canada's Electric HighwayTM, a coast-to-coast network of fast-charging EV stations). Suncor is developing petroleum resources while advancing the transition to a low-emissions future through investments in power and renewable fuels. Suncor also conducts energy trading activities focused primarily on the marketing and trading of crude oil, natural gas, byproducts, refined products and power. Suncor's common shares (symbol: SU) are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges. For more information about Suncor, visit our website at suncor.com. Media inquiries: (833) 296-4570 [email protected] Investor inquiries: (800) 558-9071 [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/198789 CLEVELAND , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL) is pleased to announce the sale of Arctic Industries and Store It Cold ("Arctic" or the "Company"), a portfolio company of Stoic Holdings, to Kinzie Capital Partners LP, a private equity firm based in Chicago . BGL's Industrials and Engineered Equipment team served as the exclusive financial advisor to Arctic Industries and Store It Cold in the transaction. The specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition positions Arctic Industries for substantial growth in a fragmented market. With locations in Miami, Florida , and Los Angeles, California , Arctic is a leading manufacturer and distributor of engineered walk-in coolers, freezers, and insulating enclosures serving the foodservice, commercial, industrial, healthcare, hospitality, agriculture, and home use markets. The Company also owns the intellectual property of and sells CoolBot, a highly innovative technology solution for agriculture, hunting, floral, and home use walk-in refrigeration. The acquisition positions Arctic for substantial growth in a fragmented market with an opportunity to leverage its bi-coastal manufacturing capabilities to grow market share and expand relationships with leading national foodservice dealers and end users, in addition to adjacent product categories, including HVAC enclosures, environmental test chambers, and other cold storage solutions. BGL's Industrials and Engineered Equipment Group has extensive global transaction experience and domain knowledge across a broad range of end markets. Our emphasis is on providing investment banking advisory services to middle-market companies that offer unique value propositions to their customers and exclusive product and service offerings. To learn more about the state of M&A across the Industrial market, including how trends will shape the future landscape of the market, download our most recent Industrials research reports: https://bit.ly/BGLIndustrialsResearch About Brown Gibbons Lang & Company Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL) is a leading independent investment bank and financial advisory firm focused on the global middle market. The firm advises private and public corporations and private equity groups on mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructurings, business valuations and opinions, and other strategic matters. BGL has investment banking offices in Chicago , Cleveland , Los Angeles , and New York , and real estate offices in Chicago , Cleveland , and San Antonio . The firm is also a founding member of Global M&A Partners, enabling BGL to service clients in more than 35 countries around the world. Securities transactions are conducted through Brown, Gibbons, Lang & Company Securities, LLC, an affiliate of Brown Gibbons Lang & Company LLC and a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. For more information, please visit www.bglco.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bgl-announces-the-sale-of-arctic-industries-and-store-it-cold-to-kinzie-capital-302068074.html SOURCE Brown Gibbons Lang & Company When Clinton won the presidency of the United States, it was said that the Chinese could not wait to see Bill. Not Clinton though, but Gates. It was the late 1990s, the internet was still in its infancy and the digital bubble of the beginning of this century had not burst yet. This character that aroused so much interest in the growing Asian empire is now described in The Bill Gates Problem as a domineering, brusque bully, [...] a cauldron of passions that freely erupts and, as a former employee told the author of the book, a complete and utter asshole to people 70% of the time. The other 30%, however, he was seen as a harmless, fun, supersmart nerd. The 1990s were also the decade of the conflict between Microsoft and the now defunct Netscape browser, which challenged what was already being openly described as the formers monopolistic practices. Gates was investigated and accused in Congress for such practices; he ultimately won the battle, but the case harmed his reputation, and in 2000 he resigned as CEO of his company. From there he undertook an expansion of the foundation that he had established with his wife and to which he has dedicated his main efforts in the last two decades. In 2006, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation received the Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation. With a personal fortune of $100 billion and tens of billions more in his private foundation, Gates has been one of the richest men in the world for decades, and the foundation has been the most generous organization of its kind, specializing above all in health aid, education and child nutrition, with a large presence in Africa and India among other regions of what was formerly known as the Third World. Tim Schwab, a contributor to the weekly left-wing newspaper The Nation, undertook a detailed investigation to denounce something that in truth was already known: that American foundations are largely a way for billionaires to avoid taxes. To prove this, he thoroughly looked into the accounts and procedures of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the failures and occasional successes of its philanthropic policies, and came to the conclusion that behind this facade of help to the needy hides an operation of power. He is ruthless in his criticism, although accurate in his analysis of the growing inequality in the world. Absorbed by the revolutionary rhetoric, he laments that the Gates Foundation has remained deadly silent regarding movements such as Occupy Wall Street or Black Lives Matter, which demand social change in the face of the excess wealth and white savior mentality that drives Bill Gates philanthropic work. He does attribute some good intentions, but his criticism is merciless, sometimes even coarse, while the absence of solutions for the problems he denounces other than the calls for do-goodism is frustrating. His abilities as an investigative journalist are thus overshadowed by a somewhat naive militancy against the creative capitalism that Gates promotes and an evident intention to discredit not only his work but, above all, him. The demands he makes for transparency and the accusations of obscurity are dulled by the author himself in the pages he dedicates to Gates relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, the famous corruptor of minors at the service of the international jet set. Gates has explained his meetings and interviews with him on countless occasions, and in no case has any type of relationship, other than their commercial relations or some confusing efforts to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, been proved. Still, Schwab raises, with no evidence whatsoever, the possibility that their relationship could have had something to do with Epsteins principal activities in life: sexual gratification and the exercise of power. The book is full of this kind of opinions and speculations, to the detriment of a more serious analysis of Gates mistakes in the management of his foundation, the problems of shielding the intellectual property of vaccines in the hands of the pharmaceutical industries and, ultimately, the objective power that big technology companies have in global society. I met Bill Gates at his home in Seattle, where I stayed a couple of times, and at the annual meetings he used to host at Microsoft headquarters. Also on his visits to Madrid, where I interviewed him at length and invited him to visit the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE). He did not strike me as vain or arrogant, nor did he seem as self-satisfied as Schwab claims him to be. He signed a collaboration agreement with the RAE to improve Microsofts grammar checker and was interested in the substantial unity of the Spanish language in all the countries where almost 600 million people speak it. That man was very far from the sexist, arrogant, miserable predator that Schwab portrays. Nor did I deduce and this can be applied to the personal adventure of Steve Jobs, Larry Page, Zuckerberg, Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos that his lifes goal was world domination, as suggested by this book. If they have achieved it, or may achieve it, it is due to the dynamics of digital civilization and the objective difficulties in governing it. The deregulation of financial capitalism, which has increased inequality among humankind, is due to the incompetence of obsolete political institutions and to leaders who care more about their own fates than those of their people. The criticism against lame and wasteful government bureaucracies might be part of the propaganda promoted by the worlds wealthy, but lately we have also heard it from small-scale farmers across Europe. In conclusion, I found the book to be more entertaining than interesting. It provides a lot of information Im not sure if its entirely verified and plenty of cheap ideology. Above all, one can see the personal crusade of the author, determined to prove that Bill Gates is a problem for democracy and that millionaire philanthropists are a bunch of swindlers. The world needs their money; maybe managed by party bureaucracies, that much is not clear. Bill Gates money, that is, but not Bill Gates himself. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition SACRAMENTO, Calif. , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Californians for Financial Education , the campaign to pass a 2024 ballot measure to guarantee a standalone, semester-long personal finance course to every California high school student, today applauded the introduction of Assembly Bill 2927, a measure authored by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (AD-06). The intent of AB 2927 is to require California public high schools to provide a stand-alone course in personal finance to all students, with completion of the course a high school graduation requirement. "I commend Assemblymember McCarty's commitment to personal finance education leadership and commitment on this issue, and support the intent of AB 2927," said Tim Ranzetta , the co-founder of Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF), a California non-profit. "This legislation represents a significant investment in our state's future, empowering every high school student with the knowledge necessary for financial independence and stability." NGPF provides curriculum and teacher professional development at no cost to more than 96,000 educators nationwide, including more than 6,000 in California . A recently published report, Investing in Tomorrow: Lifetime Value of Financial Education in High School , found that the lifetime benefit of California students taking a high school personal finance course is $127,000 . Ranzetta noted that there is broad public support for establishing a personal finance education requirement in California . A 2022 poll completed by Public Policy Polling found that 85% of Californians polled think all high school students should be guaranteed a basic course in personal finance. According to polling conducted by David Binder of Binder Research, nearly 75 percent of likely voters would vote YES on this ballot measure as written. Californians for Financial Education 's signature-gathering for its initiative remains on track for success in bringing the matter to a statewide vote. The campaign anticipates it will have collected enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot in the next few weeks. The campaign believes that its success in obtaining signatures for the initiative provides further evidence of the overwhelming support for guaranteeing personal finance education for California high school students. Californians for Financial Education is committed to ensuring that California students get personal finance education, whether through legislation or the initiative process. Ad paid for by Californians for Financial Education. Ad Committee's Top Funder Timothy Ranzetta Funding Details at www.fppc.ca.gov Contact: Roger Salazar [email protected] / (916) 284-1255 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/californians-for-financial-education-campaign-applauds-new-legislation-requiring-personal-finance-education-for-all-students-302068113.html SOURCE Californians for Financial Education Latest initiative represents Cboe and MSCI's growing relationship and will expand Cboe's current product suite Cboe plans to offer three new options tied to MSCI's international, developed, emerging and U.S. markets benchmark indices, set to launch on March 18 , pending regulatory approval markets benchmark indices, set to launch on , pending regulatory approval Cboe also introduces two new volatility indices based on existing MSCI Index options and the proprietary VIX Index Methodology CHICAGO , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE), the world's leading derivatives and securities exchange network, today announced a new strategic initiative in collaboration with MSCI Inc. (MSCI), a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community, to expand its suite of Cboe-MSCI Index options and volatility indices. The initiative underscores Cboe and MSCI's deepening relationship and continues to leverage the companies' combined expertise to develop innovative solutions for investors worldwide. Cboe and MSCI have collaborated successfully for many years to offer a variety of indices and tradable products. In this latest initiative, Cboe will further expand its existing MSCI Index options suite by introducing three new products based on additional MSCI global indices: Cboe MSCI World Index Options (MXWLD), Cboe MSCI ACWI Index Options (MXACW), and Cboe MSCI USA Index Options (MXUSA). These options are set to begin trading on Monday, March 18 , pending regulatory approval. In addition, Cboe is broadening its volatility index suite with the launch of two new Cboe MSCI Volatility Indices: the Cboe MSCI EAFE Volatility Index (VXMXEA) and the Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Volatility Index (VXMXEF). Developed using Cboe's proprietary VIX Index methodology, these indices are based on existing MSCI EAFE Index Options (MXEA) and MSCI Emerging Markets Index Options (MXEF) and are designed to provide a transparent measure of the market's expectation of 30-day implied volatility by these respective MSCI index option classes. Similar to the VIX Index, which is designed to reflect investors' consensus view of future (30-day) expected U.S. stock market volatility, the new Cboe MSCI Volatility Indices aim to provide comparable measures for international and emerging equity market volatility. "In today's rapidly evolving landscape, investors require sophisticated tools to navigate the markets with confidence," said Catherine Clay , Global Head of Derivatives at Cboe. "Our ongoing collaboration with MSCI reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and providing solutions that empower investors to better manage risk and seize potential opportunities in the global marketplace. We are excited to expand our Cboe-MSCI toolkit with additional index options and volatility indices an enhancement that will not only broaden our customers' product choice, but also enrich the ways they interact with and analyze the global markets." Clay added, "Crucially, the three new index options, which cover developed and emerging markets, are expected to also give investors comprehensive access to gain a variety of different exposures around the globe." The new options will be based on the MSCI World Index, the MSCI ACWI Index and the MSCI USA Index, which are renowned benchmarks for measuring international, developed and emerging markets and U.S. equity performance, respectively. Significantly, both MXWLD and MXUSA options will be based on a fraction (1/100th) of the value of their underlying index. With a smaller index value, MXWLD and MXUSA options may be more accessible to a broad base of customers with diverse investment objectives, ranging from asset owners aiming to track benchmark index exposure, registered investment advisers in search of new sources of yield, or individual investors seeking straightforward exposure to options linked to global benchmark indices. "We are pleased to expand our strategic relationship with Cboe in new offerings that investors around the world can use to help them manage risk and exposure," said George Harrington , Global Head of Derivatives Licensing at MSCI. "The launch of the Cboe MSCI EAFE Volatility Index (VXMXEA) and Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Volatility Index (VXMXEF) provides the investment community with benchmarks for option investing, and Cboe's launch of options linked to the MSCI World Index, MSCI ACWI Index and MSCI USA Index further develops the ecosystem of tradable products." MXACW, MXUSA, and MXWLD will have standard options that expire on the third Friday of each month. In response to customer feedback, Cboe plans to also list five end-of-week expirations, which are expected to begin trading on March 21, 2024 , pending regulatory approval. The new index options join the current suite of Cboe MSCI tradable products, which includes the Cboe MSCI EAFE Index Options (MXEA) and Cboe MSCI Emerging Markets Index Options (MXEF). Like these existing offerings, the newly launched options will follow a European-style exercise (no early exercise), are cash-settled (no delivery or assignment of shares) at expiration and may potentially offer favorable tax treatment1. In addition, the new options are integrated into Cboe's existing infrastructure and will be traded and settled via the same exchange connections and clearinghouse as the current Cboe MSCI index options. For more information on Cboe MSCI Index options, visit Cboe's website. About Cboe Global Markets, Inc. Cboe Global Markets (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of market infrastructure and tradable products, delivers cutting-edge trading, clearing and investment solutions to market participants around the world. The company is committed to operating a trusted, inclusive global marketplace, providing leading products, technology and data solutions that enable participants to define a sustainable financial future. Cboe provides trading solutions and products in multiple asset classes, including equities, derivatives, FX, and digital assets, across North America , Europe and Asia Pacific . To learn more, visit www.cboe.com . Media Contacts Cboe Analyst Contact Angela Tu Tim Cave Kenneth Hill , CFA +1-646-856-8734 +44 (0) 7593-506-719 +1-312-786-7559 [email protected] tcave@cboe.com [email protected] CBOE-C CBOE-OE Cboe and Cboe Global Markets are registered trademarks of Cboe Exchange, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Any products that have the MSCI Index or Indexes as their underlying interest are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by MSCI Inc. or Cboe and neither MSCI Inc. nor Cboe make any representations or recommendations concerning the advisability of investing in products that have MSCI indexes as their underlying interests. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates do not recommend or make any representation as to possible benefits from any securities, futures or investments, or third-party products or services. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. is not affiliated with MSCI Inc. Investors should undertake their own due diligence regarding their securities, futures, and investment practices. This press release speaks only as of this date. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. disclaims any duty to update the information herein. Nothing in this announcement should be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell any securities or futures in any jurisdiction where the offer or solicitation would be unlawful under the laws of such jurisdiction. Nothing contained in this communication constitutes tax, legal or investment advice. Investors must consult their tax adviser or legal counsel for advice and information concerning their particular situation. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates make no warranty, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, any warranties as of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy, completeness or timeliness, the results to be obtained by recipients of the products and services described herein, or as to the ability of the indices referenced in this press release to track the performance of their respective securities, generally, or the performance of the indices referenced in this press release or any subset of their respective securities, and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies, errors. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates have not calculated, composed or determined the constituents or weightings of the securities that comprise the third-party indices referenced in this press release and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies or errors in any of the indices referenced in this press release. Options involve risk and are not suitable for all market participants. Prior to buying or selling an option, a person should review the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options (ODD), which is required to be provided to all such persons. Copies of the ODD are available from your broker or from The Options Clearing Corporation, 125 S. Franklin Street , Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60606. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as "may," "might," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential" or "continue," and the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology. All statements that reflect our expectations, assumptions or projections about the future other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all risks and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: the loss of our right to exclusively list and trade certain index options and futures products; economic, political and market conditions; compliance with legal and regulatory obligations; price competition and consolidation in our industry; decreases in trading or clearing volumes, market data fees or a shift in the mix of products traded on our exchanges; legislative or regulatory changes or changes in tax regimes; our ability to protect our systems and communication networks from security vulnerabilities and breaches; our ability to attract and retain skilled management and other personnel; increasing competition by foreign and domestic entities; our dependence on and exposure to risk from third parties; global expansion of operations; factors that impact the quality and integrity of our and other applicable indices; our ability to manage our growth and strategic acquisitions or alliances effectively; our ability to operate our business without violating the intellectual property rights of others and the costs associated with protecting our intellectual property rights; our ability to minimize the risks, including our credit, counterparty, investment, and default risks, associated with operating a European clearinghouse; our ability to accommodate trading and clearing volume and transaction traffic, including significant increases, without failure or degradation of performance of our systems; misconduct by those who use our markets or our products or for whom we clear transactions; challenges to our use of open source software code; our ability to meet our compliance obligations, including managing potential conflicts between our regulatory responsibilities and our for-profit status; our ability to maintain BIDS Trading as an independently managed and operated trading venue, separate from and not integrated with our registered national securities exchanges; damage to our reputation; the ability of our compliance and risk management methods to effectively monitor and manage our risks; restrictions imposed by our debt obligations and our ability to make payments on or refinance our debt obligations; our ability to maintain an investment grade credit rating; impairment of our goodwill, long-lived assets, investments or intangible assets; the impacts of pandemics; the accuracy of our estimates and expectations; litigation risks and other liabilities; and operating a digital asset business and clearinghouse, including the expected benefits of our Cboe Digital acquisition, cybercrime, changes in digital asset regulation, losses due to digital asset custody, and fluctuations in digital asset prices. More detailed information about factors that may affect our actual results to differ may be found in our filings with the SEC, including in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other filings made from time to time with the SEC. We do not undertake, and we expressly disclaim, any duty to update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. 1 Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. Prior to buying or selling an option, a person must receive a copy of "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options." Copies are available from your broker or from The Options Clearing Corporation at 125 South Franklin Street , Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60606 or at www.theocc.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cboe-global-markets-and-msci-collaborate-to-offer-new-index-options-and-volatility-indices-302067520.html SOURCE Cboe Global Markets, Inc. CALGARY, AB , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSX: CP) (NYSE: CP) (CPKC) Executive Vice-President and Chief Marketing Officer John Brooks will address the 45th Annual Raymond James Institutional Investor Conference on March 6, 2024 at 9:15 a.m. ET . CPKC will provide access to the live audio webcast at investor.cpkcr.com. A replay will also be available following the conclusion of the event. About Canadian Pacific Kansas City With its global headquarters in Calgary, Alta. , Canada , CPKC is the first and only single-line transnational railway linking Canada , the United States and Mexico, with unrivaled access to major ports from Vancouver to Atlantic Canada to the Gulf of Mexico to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico. Stretching approximately 20,000 route miles and employing 20,000 railroaders, CPKC provides North American customers unparalleled rail service and network reach to key markets across the continent. CPKC is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpkcr.com to learn more about the rail advantages of CPKC. CP-IR View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cpkc-executive-vice-president-and-chief-marketing-officer-to-address-the-45th-annual-raymond-james-institutional-investor-conference-on-march-6-2024-302066677.html SOURCE CPKC --Cefepime-taniborbactam was superior to meropenem for the composite efficacy endpoint with composite efficacy sustained at late follow-up visit-- SHANGHAI , Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Everest Medicines (HKEX 1952.HK)'s licensing partner, Venatorx Pharmaceuticals announced that The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) published the results of the CERTAIN-1 Phase 3 clinical study of the investigational agent cefepime-taniborbactam for the treatment of adult patients with complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including acute pyelonephritis. The results showed that cefepime-taniborbactam was superior to meropenem for the treatment of complicated UTI that included acute pyelonephritis, with a similar safety profile to meropenem. "Gram-negative infections such as cUTI have become increasingly difficult to treat due to bacterial acquired resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics. Cefepime-taniborbactam has the potential to treat a broad range of patients with cUTI due to suspected or confirmed multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens," said Paul C. McGovern , MD, Senior Vice President at Venatorx and co-author of the publication. "This Phase 3 study is the culmination of a long journey of discovery and development, and we look forward to progressing this agent through the next regulatory stages so that the drug may reach patients world-wide as expeditiously as possible." "The publication of Phase 3 clinical data in the respected New England Journal of Medicine is a further testament of cefepime-taniborbactam's ability to address urgent and unmet medical needs in multidrug-resistant infections," said Rogers Yongqing Luo , Chief Executive Officer of Everest Medicines. "In Asia, the challenges we are facing from MDR infections are more urgent and severe. We are proud to have received priority review for the medicine in China and are preparing to submit a New Drug Application in the country this year. Together with our first launched product in the anti-infectious disease space, Xerava, we hope to save the lives of more patients with critical conditions from MDR infections." About CERTAIN-1 CERTAIN-1 was a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, active-controlled, non-inferiority study of hospitalized patients (N=661) with complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including acute pyelonephritis (AP), comparing cefepime-taniborbactam (2.5 g every 8 hours) to meropenem (1 g every 8 hours). The primary endpoint was the composite microbiologic and clinical response at the Test of Cure (TOC) visit (Day 19-23) in the microbiological intention-to-treat (microITT) population. The non-inferiority margin was -15% and there was a prespecified superiority analysis if non-inferiority was concluded. Efficacy Data Cefepime-taniborbactam met the prospectively defined non-inferiority primary endpoint of composite microbiologic and clinical response versus meropenem at the TOC visit (70.6% response rate for cefepime-taniborbactam versus 58.0% for meropenem). The prespecified superiority analysis at the TOC visit demonstrated that cefepime-taniborbactam was statistically superior to meropenem for the composite endpoint (response rate difference: 12.6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.1, 22.2]; p=0.009) and for the microbiologic endpoint (response rate difference: 11.7% [CI: 2.9, 21.0]); the clinical endpoint response rate difference was 4.5% [CI: -2.6, 12.6]. At the Late Follow-up (LFU) visit (Day 28-35), cefepime-taniborbactam demonstrated sustained statistical superiority to meropenem for the composite endpoint (63.8% response rate for cefepime-taniborbactam versus 51.7% for meropenem (response rate difference: 12.1% [CI: 2.2, 21.9]) and for the clinical response endpoint (response rate difference: 9.9% [CI: 1.5, 18.8); the microbiologic endpoint response rate difference was 7.7% [CI: -1.6, 17.3]. Additionally, cefepime-taniborbactam maintained a numerical advantage to meropenem against resistant pathogens: cefepime-resistant (71% response rate for cefepime-taniborbactam versus 53% for meropenem), ESBL-producing (71% response rate for cefepime-taniborbactam versus 55% for meropenem) and MDR (68% response rate for cefepime-taniborbactam versus 60% for meropenem). Safety Data Cefepime-taniborbactam demonstrated a safety profile consistent with meropenem. Treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 35.5% and 29.0% of cefepime-taniborbactam and meropenem treated patients respectively. Serious adverse events occurred in 2.0% of cefepime-taniborbactam patients and 1.8% of meropenem treated patients. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events were headache (6.1% with cefepime-taniborbactam versus 3.7% for meropenem), diarrhea (4.1% versus 2.3%), and constipation (3.2% versus 1.4%). Three percent of patients treated with cefepime-taniborbactam discontinued therapy due to a treatment-emergent adverse event versus 0.9% of patients treated with meropenem. The safety data for cefepime-taniborbactam was consistent with the historical safety data for cefepime. About Cefepime-Taniborbactam Cefepime-taniborbactam is an investigational agent that is a combination of cefepime, a fourth-generation cephalosporin, and the novel beta-lactamase inhibitor (BLI), taniborbactam, that exhibits broad coverage of both serine- and metallo-beta-lactamases. In combination with cefepime, taniborbactam is under development as a new treatment option for patients with serious bacterial infections caused by difficult-to-treat drug resistant gram-negative pathogens, including carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) and carbapenem-resistant or multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA/MDR-PA). About Everest Medicines Everest Medicines is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing transformative pharmaceutical products and vaccines that address critical unmet medical needs for patients in Asian markets. The management team of Everest Medicines has deep expertise and an extensive track record from both leading global pharmaceutical companies and local Chinese pharmaceutical companies in high-quality discovery, clinical development, regulatory affairs, CMC, business development and operations. Everest Medicines has built a portfolio of potentially global first-in-class or best-in-class molecules, many of which are in late-stage clinical development. The Company's therapeutic areas of interest include renal diseases, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. For more information, please visit its website at www.everestmedicines.com . Forward-Looking Statements: This news release may make statements that constitute forward-looking statements, including descriptions regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers with respect to the business operations and financial condition of the Company, which can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "confident" and similar statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, or other factors, some of which are beyond the control of the Company and are unforeseeable. Therefore, the actual results may differ from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and assumptions, such as future changes and developments in our business, competitive environment, political, economic, legal and social conditions. The Company or any of its affiliates, directors, officers, advisors or representatives has no obligation and does not undertake to revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this news release, except as required by law. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/everest-medicines-licensing-partner-venatorx-pharmaceuticals-announces-publication-of-positive-results-from-cefepime-taniborbactams-phase-3-certain-1-study-in-new-england-journal-of-medicine-302066734.html SOURCE Everest Medicines VIENNA, Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics European Land Systems - Steyr (GDELS) announced that it has been awarded a contract to deliver an additional 225 PANDUR 6x6 EVO wheeled armored vehicles to the Austrian Armed Forces. The contract has an initial value of 1.2 billion euros ( U.S. $1.3 billion ). GDELS already has 100 PANDUR EVO vehicles under contract, with the third batch currently in production and delivery. In addition to the delivery of state-of-the-art personnel carriers and flexible conversion kits for medical, and command & control missions, the order includes eight new vehicle variants, including vehicles equipped with a 120 mm mortar combat system, as well as mobile air defense and electronic warfare variants. "Today's procurement decision marks an extraordinary milestone in the history of our PANDUR and underlines the globally unique performance and multi-role capability of this wheeled armored vehicle family," said GDELS President Antonio Bueno . "Since the very beginning, Austria has been one of GDELS' home countries. Consequently, we are fully dedicated and proud to continuing our proven, trusted partnership by providing the Austrian Armed Forces with enhanced military mobility, while at the same time contributing to sustainable macroeconomic added-value together with our many industry partners." The compact, high-performance PANDUR EVO 6x6 is built at GDELS' Steyr facility in Vienna Simmering , the national center of excellence for wheeled and tracked protected military mobility. Preceding versions of the PANDUR EVO have been in service with the Austrian Armed Forces since 1996. Around 850 PANDUR in 6x6 and 8x8 configurations are fielded worldwide today. Other users include Belgium , the Czech Republic , Indonesia , Kuwait , Portugal , Slovenia , and the U.S. General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people across 65 countries worldwide and generated $42.3 billion in revenue in 2023. More information about General Dynamics is available at www.gd.com. More information about General Dynamics European Land Systems is available at www.gdels.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/general-dynamics-european-land-systems---steyr-awarded-1-3-billion-contract-to-build-225-pandur-evo-wheeled-armored-vehicles-for-austria-302066713.html SOURCE General Dynamics MONTREAL , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Haivision Systems Inc. ("Haivision") (TSX: HAI), a leading global provider of mission critical, real-time video networking and visual collaboration solutions, today announced that it will host a webcast investor presentation on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM ET . During the webcast, Mirko Wicha , CEO and Dan Rabinowitz , CFO will conduct a presentation that will cover key areas of Haivision's business. After the formal presentation, investors will have an opportunity to ask relevant questions through an interactive Q&A portal. To listen to the webcast or to ask questions during the live event, please pre-register at the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5p3-i3r_QLG7ox4V5blpww. An archived version of the webcast and presentation will be available on the company's website, https://ir.haivision.com/overview/default.aspx About Haivision Haivision is a leading global provider of mission-critical, real-time networking and visual collaboration solutions. Our connected cloud and intelligent edge technologies enable organizations to engage audiences, enhance collaboration, and support decision making. We provide high quality, low latency, secure, and reliable live video at a global scale. Haivision open sourced its award-winning SRT low latency video streaming protocol and founded the SRT Alliance to support its adoption. Awarded an Emmy for Technology and Engineering from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Haivision continues to fuel the future of IP video transformation. Founded in 2004, Haivision is headquartered in Montreal and Chicago with offices, sales, and support located throughout the Americas , Europe , and Asia . To learn more, visit Haivision www.haivision.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/haivision-to-host-investor-webcast-on-february-28-2024-302068101.html SOURCE Haivision Systems Inc. SALT LAKE CITY , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Instructure Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: INST) ("Instructure"), the makers of the Canvas Learning Management System, today announced that company management will attend the following upcoming investor conferences: Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference in San Francisco : Chief Executive Officer Steve Daly and President and Chief Operating Officer Chris Ball will present at approximately 8:45am PT and meet with investors. The webcast can be viewed here. An archive of the webcast will be available for a limited time on Instructure's investor relations website under "Events & Presentations" at https://ir.instructure.com. at the Morgan Stanley in : Chief Executive Officer Steve Daly and President and Chief Operating Officer will present at approximately and meet with investors. The webcast can be viewed here. An archive of the webcast will be available for a limited time on investor relations website under "Events & Presentations" at https://ir.instructure.com. Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at the Raymond James Institutional Investor Conference in Orlando : Chief Financial Officer Peter Walker and Chief Strategy Officer Mitch Benson will present at approximately 11:35am ET and meet with investors. The webcast can be viewed here. An archive of the webcast will be available for a limited time on Instructure's investor relations website under "Events & Presentations" at https://ir.instructure.com. About Instructure Instructure is an education technology company dedicated to elevating student success, amplifying the power of teaching, and inspiring everyone to learn together. Today the Instructure Learning Platform supports tens of millions of educators and learners around the world. Learn more at www.instructure.com. Contacts Brian Watkins Corporate Communications Instructure (801) 610-9722 [email protected] April Scee Investor Relations (917) 497-8992 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/instructure-to-attend-upcoming-investor-conferences-302067980.html SOURCE Instructure Holdings, Inc. PHILADELPHIA , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GoldOller Real Estate Investments announced the promotion of Jill Hinton to the position of President. Hinton, a longstanding member of GoldOller's senior management team, has ascended through the ranks since joining the company, most recently serving as Vice President of Operations. "Jill's exceptional leadership skills, profound understanding of our operational intricacies, and unwavering commitment to excellence and to the ethos and spirit of our team, have been instrumental in shaping the GoldOller we know today," stated Jake Hollinger , CEO of GoldOller. "In her new role as President, Jill will widen her view and reach, enhancing and integrating all our departments, services, and processes, while ensuring that we remain true to the unique culture and values that define us." Hollinger added. "I am deeply passionate about the work we do and the incredible team I have the privilege to work alongside," remarked Hinton. As we continue to evolve as a company, my foremost objective is to ensure that every GoldOller employee and associate feels empowered, supported, and motivated to grow both personally and professionally. By prioritizing our team, GoldOller will continue to deliver an exceptional resident experience, resulting in continued outstanding financial performance. That's the GoldOller difference." About GoldOller: GoldOller, along with its affiliated companies, oversees a multifamily portfolio comprising over 40,000 apartment units across 28 states, establishing itself as one of the nation's leading multifamily management firms, according to the National Multifamily Housing Council. In addition to apartments, GoldOller is a fully integrated real estate investor, developer, and operator with mixed-use, commercial, office, industrial, and hospitality properties, offering comprehensive end-to-end asset and property management services. The company is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top workplaces. GoldOller maintains corporate offices in Delray Beach, Florida ; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ; and Suffern, New York , along with regional offices in Orlando , Atlanta , Columbus , and Washington D.C. For more information about GoldOller Real Estate Investments and our leadership team, please visit www.goldoller.com. Media Contact: Maddie Grussendorf Director of Marketing, Technology, and Innovation GoldOller Real Estate Investments [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jill-hinton-promoted-to-president-of-goldoller-management-services-302067779.html SOURCE GoldOller GOTHENBURG, Sweden , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Minesto, leading ocean energy developer, has upgraded the roadmap to a 200 MW tidal energy buildout in the Faroe Islands . The scaled-up roadmap is a response to the growing demands for renewable energy, where unlocking the tidal opportunity enables transition to a 100% renewable energy system. The recently reached milestone of megawatt-scale electricity generation with Dragon 12 to the grid shifts focus to commercial array buildout. The Faroe Islands has one of the world's most ambitious energy transition schemes, aiming for 100% renewables by 2030. Minesto's suggested roadmap includes tidal energy buildout in seven site locations in Faroe Island waters, reaching a total of 200 MW equivalent to about 40% of future energy demand. Dr Martin Edlund , CEO of Minesto, was recently interviewed on national Faroese TV: "We recently raised our ambitions to 200 MW as new tidal energy resources have been verified, and the demand for clean energy from local stakeholders such as the Faroese fish farming industry is growing," said Dr Martin Edlund . Minesto estimates the 200MW project investment to 400 M EUR, where 50% constitutes hardware sales from Minesto. "In addition to increasing energy demand, a larger investment case at 200 MW increases attractiveness for investors based on improved economies of scale," explains Dr Martin Edlund . The road-map targets Hestfjord as the first site for build out. This is also where Minesto together with the local utility partner SEV is engaged in site development activities such as consenting and planning of cable routes. Video comment from CEO: CEO comment Looking ahead after Dragon 12 electricity milestone (youtube.com) Film visualising the 200 MW buildout plan: Minesto's roadmap to 200 MW tidal energy buildout in the Faroe Islands (youtube.com) For additional information, please contact Cecilia Sernhage, Chief Communications Officer +46 735 23 71 58 [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/minesto-evolves-its-faroese-business-case-upgrading-to-a-200-mw-tidal-energy-buildout-302067534.html SOURCE Minesto AB Sussex County Prosecutor's Office, Vernon Township Police Department, and ASPCA rescued the dogs of varying breeds, sizes, and ages, including some who are underweight, severely matted, and have untreated infections and injuries, after they were found living in filthy conditions among their own feces and urine The dogs are being transported to the ASPCA's Cruelty Recovery Center for sheltering, medical treatment, and behavioral care and enrichment VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J., Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On Feb. 20, 2024, at the request of the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and the Vernon Township Police Department, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) assisted in the removal of more than 90 maltreated dogs from the property of a self-described animal rescue group in Vernon Township, N.J. The animals, including young puppies, were seized by law enforcement after they were found living in filthy conditions among their own feces and urine and exposed to high levels of ammonia. Some of the animals had dirty, severely matted coats, including one dog who was found with nails matted into their fur. Some dogs were also underweight and had untreated medical conditions including eye infections and injuries. Several dogs were living in cars, and deceased dogs were also found on the property. Acting Supervising Assistant Prosecutor/Special Deputy Attorney General Brent Rafuse of the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office indicated that the owners of the property, Gizela Juric and Ronald Colgan , have been charged in a criminal complaint with six counts of animal cruelty charges relating to both the deceased dogs found on the property as well as the failure to provide the animals with necessary care. Gizela Juric was previously charged with animal cruelty on Feb. 2, 2024 , in connection with the death of a fifth dog in her care. "The ASPCA is grateful to be in a position where we can collaborate with local agencies across the country to provide critical resources and expertise to rescue at-risk animals and bring them to safety," said Teresa Ladner , senior director of Investigations for the ASPCA. "It's clear these dogs were not receiving adequate treatment despite the fact that they were under the care of a self-described animal rescue group, and we commend the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office and the Vernon Township Police Department for intervening to help end their suffering." Acting Sussex County Prosecutor Carolyn Murray acknowledges the professionalism of the Vernon Township Police Department and the ASPCA for their assistance in this ongoing investigation. The ASPCA is transporting the dogs to its Cruelty Recovery Center, a facility dedicated to providing temporary sheltering, medical care, and behavioral treatment and enrichment to animals rescued from emergency situations such as suspected cruelty and neglect. The ASPCA is also assisting with operational planning, evidence collection, crime scene processing, veterinary forensics exams, and behavior evaluations. Animal cruelty charges are pending based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office. The ASPCA is providing investigative and legal assistance to further support the investigation and prosecution and to ensure the best legal outcome for the animals. The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. About the ASPCA Founded in 1866, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America and today serves as the nation's leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with more than two million supporters nationwide, the ASPCA is committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States . The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions, behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy, and the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/more-than-90-maltreated-dogs-and-puppies-seized-from-self-described-animal-rescue-group-in-new-jersey-302067868.html SOURCE ASPCA At the end of his career, John Ford wanted to use Cheyenne Autumn to apologize to Native Americans for the way he had treated them in his films. Shot in 1964, it was his last western. There are two sides to every story, but for once I wanted to show their point of view. Ive killed more Indians than Custer, Beecher and Chivington put together, the master explained to Peter Bogdanovich in the interview book John Ford. Lets face it, weve treated them very badly its a blot on our shield. Weve cheated and robbed, killed, murdered, massacred and everything else, but they kill one white man and, God, out come the troops. Cheyenne Autumn recounts a historical episode in which a group of Cheyennes flee to their ancestral lands from the squalid reservation where they are confined and end up being massacred, after being tricked time and again by U.S. authorities. The problem is that Ford shot in Monument Valley, the setting for his great Westerns, which belongs to a Navajo reservation. Members of this tribe acted massively in the film, in which Mexican actors also play Native Americans. It is something that would be impossible to explain to the public today, but Ford had no choice if he wanted to shoot the film. Of course, the Navajos who were playing Cheyennes took their revenge on the white men. Since no one but them understood Navajo on the set a language so difficult that it was used as a secret code during World War II instead of reading the script they decided to say whatever they wanted. They made all sorts of comments about the small size of the white officers penises and other nonsense during the films most tragic scenes. At least, thats what an old Hollywood legend says, but John Ford made the doctrine clear at the end of The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance: This is the West: when the legend becomes a fact, print the legend. A historical photograph of a group of Osage natives. ilbusca (Getty Images) Author Tony Hillerman wrote a series of noir novels set on the same Navajo reservation where Ford filmed Cheyenne Autumn, and his books serve as the basis for the terrific series Dark Winds (the two seasons can currently be seen on AMC+). In one of them, Sacred Clowns, he describes a drive-in movie theater in Gallup where Navajos used to see the film again and again. Jim Chee, one of the policemen who stars in the show, recounts that at the screening they would honk their car horns and laugh their heads off at what were, in theory, the most dramatic moments. And he recalls what he felt when he attended a session with a Cheyenne who didnt understand Navajo: In the exact same scene, he was watching the destruction of his culture. We were watching as our people laughed at the whites. None of this could have happened to Martin Scorsese, another director at the height of his creative powers, who tried his hand at westerns at age 81 with Killers of the Flower Moon (available on Apple TV). The Osage tribe plays an essential role in the film, which has garnered 10 Oscar nominations. Set in the 1920s, the film tells the story of how dozens of Osage were murdered with impunity to steal the property rights to their oil wells. Scorsese not only relied on numerous Native advisors to lend credibility to the film, but he also worked directly with tribal representatives. Of the 63 Native American actors in the film, 49 are Osage. Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone in 'Killers of the Flower Moon.' Melinda Sue Gordon Both Ford and Scorsese wanted to remember a forgotten history, buried by a vision of the past in which the roles are totally reversed the invaders became the invaded, and vice versa. In fact, David Grann, the New Yorker journalist on whose book, Killers of the Flower Moon, Scorseses film is based, notes that it was precisely the will to remember something that should never have been forgotten that led him to investigate the crimes against the Osage for years. One day in the summer of 2012, fresh from New York, where I live and work as a journalist, I visited Pawhuska for the first time hoping to find information about the murders that had occurred almost a century ago. Like most Americans, when I was in school I never read any books about these crimes; it was as if they had been erased from history. So, I started researching when I stumbled upon a reference to those events. From then on, I was consumed with the urge to solve the unanswered questions, to tie up the loose ends that the FBI investigation didnt. The star of the film, Lily Gladstone, has a good chance of becoming the first Native American actress to win an Oscar. For the movie, she took lessons in Osage culture, which included the stories that ground the groups traditions as well as the language. There are elements in this film that just scream Osage, Jim Gray, one of the tribal members who helped make the film, told The Harvard Gazette. Even though 99 percent of the audience will be non-Osage and are not going to know as much about this story as we do, Osage people sitting in the audience are going to get a lot of the observances that Scorsese incorporated into the film that could only have come from collaboration with the tribe. Decolonizing museums, mentalities, the vision of the past also represents the different way in which two masters of cinema, Ford and Scorsese, faced the same problem 60 years apart: telling the story of the United States from the perspective of those who were exterminated. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Cornett, a 25-year utility industry veteran, will succeed Dave Bonenberger March 4 ALLENTOWN, Pa. , Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) today announced 25-year utility industry veteran Greg Cornett has been named president of Rhode Island Energy (RIE). Effective March 4 , Cornett will succeed Dave Bonenberger , who is moving into a new role as PPL Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Utilities. While Bonenberger's role is changing, he will remain responsible for ensuring RIE's seamless transition to PPL systems and processes as the company works to exit its remaining transition service agreements with National Grid by mid-2024. In addition, Bonenberger will be responsible for utility operations across PPL. Along with Cornett's appointment, PPL is also promoting Vice President of Electric Operations Alan LaBarre to RIE Chief Operating Officer. LaBarre has 35 years of utility experience serving Rhode Island communities. He will oversee electric and natural gas operations to ensure safe, reliable energy delivery for RIE customers. "With Greg's excellent leadership skills, deep knowledge of the utility industry, collaborative nature and strong commitment to our mission, he is an outstanding fit to lead Rhode Island Energy into the future," said PPL President and Chief Executive Officer Vincent Sorgi . "He joins Alan and a very strong and experienced local leadership team that is 100% focused on making a positive impact in our communities and advancing a clean energy transition while ensuring safe, reliable and affordable energy for our customers." Cornett currently serves as Vice President and Deputy General Counsel for PPL. Prior to his current role, he served as Associate General Counsel and Director of Legal Services for PPL subsidiaries Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company. He also previously was an equity member with a large law firm in Kentucky , where he focused his work in the utility sector. "I'm honored to lead Rhode Island Energy and excited to engage with a wide variety of stakeholders to secure a sustainable energy future for our customers," said Cornett. "Rhode Island Energy is uniquely situated to help the state meet its energy and climate goals in a way that preserves energy affordability and enhances reliability for customers. As we embrace this opportunity, I'm eager to support the state's long-term growth and success." RIE is part of the PPL family of companies. The utility provides essential energy services to more than 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity or natural gas. About PPL PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL), headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania , is a leading U.S. energy company focused on providing electricity and natural gas safely, reliably and affordably to more than 3.5 million customers in the U.S. PPL's high-performing, award-winning utilities are addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions. For more information, visit www.pplweb.com. Note to Editors: Visit our media website at www.pplnewsroom.com for additional news about PPL Corporation. Contacts: For news media: Ryan Hill , 610-774-4033 For financial analysts: Andy Ludwig , 610-774-3389 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ppl-corporation-names-greg-cornett-president-of-rhode-island-energy-302068067.html SOURCE PPL Corporation; Rhode Island Energy Focusing on cutting-edge technologies, new center will play a pivotal role in the company's global innovation ecosystem and strategy SINGAPORE , Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ( SINGAPORE AIRSHOW) -- Collins Aerospace, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, announced the inauguration of the India Digital Technology Center (IDTC), designed to spearhead advancements in digital technology and innovation. The India Digital Technology Center , located in Bengaluru, is strategically positioned to play a pivotal role in Collins Aerospace's global innovation ecosystem, bringing value through digital initiatives across the globe. The center will specialize in enterprise resource planning, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data engineering and analytics and digital enablement of the product lifecycle. These capabilities set the center apart as a dynamic hub for digital transformation within the company. " The India Digital Technology Center is accelerating our digital initiatives, enabling us to deliver cutting-edge solutions to our customers globally and drive technological advancements crucial to our industry," said Mona Bates , Chief Information Officer for Collins Aerospace. "It fosters an environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and excellence for top-tier talent." Collins Aerospace is committed to investing in technological innovations that enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the broader aerospace community's progress in India . The India Digital Technology Center reflects this commitment by serving as a hub for ideation, innovation, and the development of transformative compliant digital solutions. The center will be co-located with Pratt & Whitney's India Digital Capability Center, enabling greater cross-enterprise collaboration. About Collins Aerospace Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, is a leader in integrated and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Our 80,000 employees are dedicated to delivering future-focused technologies to advance sustainable and connected aviation, passenger safety and comfort, mission success, space exploration, and more. About RTX RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2023 sales of $68.9 billion , is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia . For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rtxs-collins-aerospace-inaugurates-india-digital-technology-center-302066478.html SOURCE RTX Visit highlight's PWSA Utilization of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill dollars PITTSBURGH , Feb. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) was recognized for its quick and efficient use of federal infrastructure dollars to remove the risk of lead in drinking water during Vice President Kamala Harris and EPA Administrator Michael Regan's visit to Pittsburgh Tuesday. Their visit centered the importance of reliable, safe drinking water and the impact the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill has had on communities across the nation who are investing in water infrastructure. The delegation visited a PWSA lead service line replacement site in a Pittsburgh neighborhood for an intimate look at how lead pipes are removed from our drinking water system. Vice President Harris also spoke at the Kingsley Association where, in nearby neighborhoods, PWSA has replaced hundreds of lead service lines, delivering on our mission to protect public health in the communities we serve. "Access to clean water is an infrastructure and public health matter, which is why the Biden Administration has prioritized this issue to ensure people have access to what they need to be healthy regardless of how much money they have in their back pocket," said Vice President Kamala Harris during her remarks at the Kingsley Association. Since PWSA began its effort to remove the risk of lead in drinking water in 2016, it has replaced over 10,800 public and over 7,600 private lead service lines. There is no safe level of lead in drinking water, so PWSA's aggressive lead service line replacement program is the most effective approach to protecting water quality now, and for future generations. With years of experience, PWSA has been recognized as an industry leader in lead pipe remediation, consulting with water utilities and governments across the country on best-practices for their programs. "We thank Vice President Harris and EPA Administrator Regan for their continued acknowledgement of the progress PWSA is making to improve public health in Pittsburgh ," said PWSA CEO Will Pickering . "Federal funding has allowed us to accelerate the pace of replacements and reduce the burden placed on our ratepayers for this costly construction endeavor," he said. To date, PWSA has received over $43 million in grants and over $23 million in low interest loans from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill for this essential work. Coupled with the tens of millions received in state funding since 2017, we can expedite the replacement of lead service lines and are more than halfway to our goal of replacing all lead pipes by 2026. Utilizing these funds while they are available has been a top priority for PWSA, as grant money allows for work to be done at no direct cost to our customers, and low interest loans allow for millions in savings over time compared to traditional municipal bonds. To learn more about PWSA's Community Lead Response including lead remediation programs, and resources like lead test kits and filters, visit lead.pgh2o.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vice-president-epa-administrator-return-to-pittsburgh-highlight-pwsas-commitment-to-protecting-water-quality-302066699.html SOURCE Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority FILE PHOTO: A steel worker of ThyssenKrupp stands amid sparks of raw iron coming from a blast furnace at a ThyssenKrupp steel factory in Duisburg, western Germany, November 14, 2022. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay/File Photo DUESSELDORF/FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Thyssenkrupp's labour representatives on Wednesday warned the German conglomerate's management against cutting jobs or capacity as part of an expected sale of its steel division. Concerned Thyssenkrupp may take such steps as part of a planned partial sale to Czech energy group EPH, workers said they had hired a consultancy to come up with future scenarios that would preserve the steel unit's current size and scope. "We are not ruling anything out, but it remains clear to us that we want to keep Stahl in its current size," Tekin Nasikkol, who heads Thyssenkrupp's works council and sits on the group's supervisory board, said in a handout seen by Reuters. Thyssenkrupp declined to comment. Nasikkol said the patience of Thyssenkrupp's owners was running thin and workers "need to prepare for the worst". In the leaflet distributed to workers, the IG Metall union said it would insist that Thyssenkrupp's sites and roughly 27,000 jobs would be kept and that a previously agreed job guarantee until March 2026 would be honoured. Sources told Reuters last week that Thyssenkrupp and EPH were facing delays in talks on a steel joint venture as ongoing contract negotiations with automotive clients hamper the German group's efforts to prepare a necessary business plan. IG Metall also said Thyssenkrupp needs to maintain steel production capacity of 11.5 million tonnes a year and that all blast furnaces should be retrofitted for decarbonised output. This demand also refers to HKM, Thyssenkrupp's steel joint venture with Salzgitter and France's Vallourec, the future of which is seen as uncertain and which is considered to be first in line for potential capacity cuts. (Reporting by Tom Kaeckenhoff and Christoph Steitz; Editing by Rachel More and Alexander Smith) FILE PHOTO: A man walks by a Chase Bank branch in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., June 30, 2022. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly By Jonathan Stempel NEW YORK (Reuters) -JPMorgan Chase was sued by customers who accused the largest U.S. bank of having unfairly charged fees when they deposited checks that, through no fault of their own, bounced. In a proposed class action filed on Tuesday night, five customers said New York-based Chase docked $12 "deposited item returned fees" from their accounts when checks they tried to deposit were returned unpaid. Checks can bounce for many reasons, including when writers do not have enough money in their accounts or issue stop payment orders, or when the checks contain errors. The Chase customers called the bank's "junk fees" for returned checks "unconscionable" and "predatory," citing an October 2022 U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau bulletin that said indiscriminately charging such fees was likely illegal. "By charging these deposited item return fees, Chase unfairly targeted its customers with financial penalties for faulty checks the customers had no hand in issuing," the complaint said. "They did nothing wrong, yet were penalized." Chase declined to comment on the lawsuit, but said it stopped charging the fees in December 2022. The five customers said they were charged between November 2021 and October 2022. Their lawyer Lisa Considine called imposing the fees "a pervasive and unfair industry practice." The complaint seeks at least $5 million of damages for Chase customers nationwide, alleging violations of New York, California, Illinois and New Jersey consumer protection laws. It was filed in the White Plains, New York federal court. In October, the Biden administration called for a crackdown on hidden and surprise fees in banking and other sectors including car rentals, hotels and concert tickets, saying the fees cost Americans tens of billions of dollars a year. The case is Maslowski et al v JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 24-01277. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New YorkEditing by Marguerita Choy, William Maclean) SYDNEY (Reuters) - A Chinese man arrested in Australia is awaiting extradition to the United States for alleged involvement in a North Korean scheme to generate revenue by selling counterfeit cigarettes, Australian authorities said on Wednesday. Jin Guanghua was arrested in Victoria state in March in response to a request from the United States and remains in custody, Australia's Attorney General's Department said. "The individual is wanted to face prosecution in the United States for a number of sanctions, bank fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy offences," a spokesman for the department said in a statement. The extradition warrant and Jin's arrest was first reported by the Guardian on Tuesday. A United States indictment unsealed last year alleges Jin, a Chinese citizen, committed bank fraud in an illegal scheme by North Korea to generate revenue through the purchase and sale of tobacco. To avoid United Nations sanctions, North Korean banks used front companies, according to the indictment. Jin was among three Chinese nationals acting as middlemen, purchasing tobacco for companies owned by North Korea's military and government, and used to manufacture counterfeit cigarettes to generate hard currency, the FBI alleged. North Korea is one of the largest producers globally of contraband cigarettes, including fake Western and Japanese brands, that are sold in Asia, the indictment said. The raw tobacco was purchased from international suppliers and shipped to Dalian in China, where it was smuggled to North Korea, it said. Jin was involved in the scheme between 2009 and 2019, the indictment said. A Victorian magistrates court spokeswoman on Wednesday said a warrant for Jin was executed in court in August, and he was returned to the Metropolitan Remand Centre to await extradition. Jin remains in custody "pursuant to the United States of America's request for his extradition to face criminal charges in the United States", the Attorney General's department said. The Chinese embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Reporting by Kirsty Needham in Sydney and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Editing by Christopher Cushing) FILE PHOTO: A farmer watches as grain is harvested in Hurup, Jutland in this August 16, 2011 file photo. REUTERS/Henning Bagger By Isabelle Yr Carlsson COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -Denmark's farmers on Wednesday voiced concerns that plans to levy a carbon emission tax on farming as part of efforts to meet Denmark's ambitious climate goals would force them to reduce production and close farms. Denmark, a major pork and dairy exporter, could become the first country in the world to levy an emissions tax on farming, a move that has broad political backing in the country, after New Zealand last year pushed back such a tax to the end of 2025. A carbon tax on farmers could help Denmark achieve its legally-binding 2030 target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 70% from 1990 levels. But such a measure would also mean higher costs for farmers and as a consequence reduce production by as much as one-fifth, a government-commissioned group said in a report on Wednesday. A tax of 750 Danish crowns ($109) per million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted would have the biggest impact. The group also considered lower taxes of 375 crowns and 125 crowns. "These models are based on something very disappointing, namely that climate reduction can only come by reducing production," Peder Tuborgh, CEO of dairy producer Arla Foods, told Reuters. Tuborgh said new technologies had helped Arla's 9,000 farmers in Denmark, Sweden, England, Germany and Benelux reduce emissions by 1 million tons in the last two years. "There is an innovation path," he said. "We would like to continue that journey, rather than having to shut down our production." More than half of Denmark's land is farmed, with agriculture accounting for about a third of the country's carbon emissions, according to Danish climate think tank Concito. The agriculture sector has become a political battleground as the European Union strives to meet its net zero emissions target by 2050. Farmers across the bloc have been protesting for weeks, saying they are facing rising costs and taxes, red tape, and excessive environmental rules. The scenarios laid out by the government advisors would reduce agricultural production by between 6% and 15%, with cattle and pig production falling by around 20% under the harshest taxation scenario. "It will be relatively dramatic if we chose to go down that path," Jais Valeur, CEO of Europe's biggest pork producer Danish Crown, told TV2. "It's key that we encourage our best farmers to become better so that we can lead the way for a sustainable transition," he said. ($1 = 6.8948 Danish crowns) (Reporting by Isabelle Yr Carlsson, Louise Rasmussen and Stine Jacobsen; Editing by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, Kirsten Donovan and David Evans) FILE PHOTO: Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani departs the U.S. District Courthouse after he was ordered to pay $148 million in his defamation case in Washington, U.S., December 15, 2023. REUTERS/Bonnie Cash/File Photo (Reuters) - Donald Trump's ex-lawyer Rudy Giuliani on Tuesday asked a judge to rule in his favor or grant a new trial in a lawsuit by two Georgia election workers in which he was ordered to pay $148 million for falsely accusing them of election fraud. A federal jury in Washington ordered Giuliani to pay the two workers, Wandrea "Shaye" Moss and her mother Ruby Freeman, for reputational and emotional harm they said they suffered after he falsely claimed they rigged votes against Trump. The former New York mayor, who declared bankruptcy following the verdict, filed the legal motion after the bankruptcy judge gave him permission to challenge the damages award in the defamation case as long as he funded it with donations, rather than his own funds. Other lawsuits against Giuliani, a leading member of Trumps legal team as he sought to overturn his defeat in the 2020 election, have been paused because of the bankruptcy proceedings. The jury handed down the $148 million defamation verdict in December following emotional testimony from Moss and Freeman about racist threats they received after Giuliani and other Trump allies accused them of hiding and scanning batches of illegal ballots at a vote processing center in Atlanta. Giulianis lawyer argued during trial that others besides Giuliani were more responsible for the harm to Freeman and Moss. A federal judge determined before the trial that Giuliani was liable for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress and civil conspiracy. The only question before the jury was how much to impose in damages. (Reporting by Dan Whitcomb and Andrew Goudsward; Editing by Michael Perry) By Julia Payne, Andrew Gray and Gabriela Baczynska BRUSSELS (Reuters) -EU members approved a 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia on Wednesday, banning nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children. "EU Ambassadors just agreed in principle on a 13th package of sanctions in the framework of Russia's aggression against Ukraine," Belgium, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said on social media platform X, calling it "one of the broadest approved by the EU". The new package will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from traveling to the EU or doing business there, but no fresh measures against specific economic sectors, EU diplomatic sources said. The sources said the focus of the listings is roughly split between entities and individuals that are part of Russia's military industrial complex and those involved in trafficking and kidnapping Ukrainian children. One North Korean and one Belarusian firm were also added, the sources said. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said last March that Russia had transferred "at least hundreds" of children from orphanages and care homes in occupied regions of Ukraine, and "many" have been given up for adoption. The ICC indicted officials including President Vladimir Putin for abducting Ukrainian children, which it called a war crime. Moscow denies any crime and says it has taken in children from the war zone to protect them. Ukraine says Russia has removed more than 4,000 children. The new measures also focus on the procurement network supporting Russia's military, especially the supply chain to make drones. Twenty-seven companies were added to the Annex IV list, which means European firms cannot sell dual-use goods to them. The companies added are mostly Russian and include three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company, the sources said. The package will be formally approved in time for the second anniversary of the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24. "We must keep degrading Putin's war machine," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on X. "We are also further cutting Russias access to drones." Ambassadors also renewed for six months the current sanctions regime that lists around 2,000 individuals and companies. (Reporting by Julia Payne, Gabriela Baczynska and Andrew Gray; Writing by Charlotte Van CampenhoutEditing by Gareth Jones and Peter Graff) By Parisa Hafezi, John Irish, Tom Balmforth and Jonathan Landay DUBAI (Reuters) -Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two U.S.-sanctioned countries. Iran's provision of around 400 missiles includes many from the Fateh-110 family of short-range ballistic weapons, such as the Zolfaghar, three Iranian sources said. This road-mobile missile is capable of striking targets at a distance of between 300 and 700 km (186 and 435 miles), experts say. Iran's defence ministry and the Revolutionary Guards - an elite force that oversees Iran's ballistic missile programme - declined to comment. Russia's defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The shipments began in early January after a deal was finalised in meetings late last year between Iranian and Russian military and security officials that took place in Tehran and Moscow, one of the Iranian sources said. An Iranian military official - who, like the other sources, asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the information - said there had been at least four shipments of missiles and there would be more in the coming weeks. He declined to provide further details. Another senior Iranian official said some of the missiles were sent to Russia by ship via the Caspian Sea, while others were transported by plane. "There will be more shipments," the second Iranian official said. "There is no reason to hide it. We are allowed to export weapons to any country that we wish to." U.N. Security Council restrictions on Iran's export of some missiles, drones and other technologies expired in October. However, the United States and European Union retained sanctions on Iran's ballistic missile programme amid concerns over exports of weapons to its proxies in the Middle East and to Russia. A fourth source, familiar with the matter, confirmed that Russia had received a large number of missiles from Iran recently, without providing further details. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said in early January the United States was concerned that Russia was close to acquiring short-range ballistic weapons from Iran, in addition to missiles already sourced from North Korea. A U.S. official told Reuters that Washington had seen evidence of talks actively advancing but no indication yet of deliveries having taken place. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the missile deliveries. Ukraine's top prosecutor said on Friday the ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea to Russia had proven unreliable on the battlefield, with only two of 24 hitting their targets. Moscow and Pyongyang have both denied that North Korea has provided Russia with munitions used in Ukraine. By contrast, Jeffrey Lewis, an expert with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, said the Fateh-110 family of missiles and the Zolfaghar were precision weapons. "They are used to point at things that are high value and need precise damage," said Lewis, adding that 400 munitions could inflict considerable harm if used in Ukraine. He noted, however, that Russian bombardments were already "pretty brutal". U.S. AID DELAY WEAKENS UKRAINE'S DEFENCES A Ukrainian military source told Reuters that Kyiv had not registered any use of Iranian ballistic missiles by Russian forces in the conflict. The Ukrainian defence ministry did not immediately reply to Reuters' request for comment. Following the publication of this story, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force told national television that it had no official information on Russia obtaining such missiles. He said that ballistic missiles would pose a serious threat to Ukraine. Former Ukrainian defence minister Andriy Zagorodnyuk said that Russia wanted to supplement its missile arsenal at a time when delays in approving a major package of U.S. military aid in Congress has left Ukraine short of ammunition and other material. "The lack of U.S. support means shortages of ground-based air defence in Ukraine. So they want to accumulate a mass of rockets and break through Ukrainian air defence," said Zagorodnyuk, who chairs the Kyiv-based Centre for Defence Strategies, a security think tank, and advises the government. Kyiv has repeatedly asked Tehran to stop supplying Shahed drones to Russia, which have become a staple of Moscow's long-range assaults on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, alongside an array of missiles. Ukraine's air force said in December that Russia had launched 3,700 Shahed drones during the war, which can fly hundreds of kilometres and explode on impact. Ukrainians call them "mopeds" because of the distinctive sound of their engines; air defences down dozens of them each week. Iran initially denied supplying drones to Russia but months later said it had provided a small number before Moscow launched the war on Ukraine in 2022. "Those who accuse Iran of providing weapons to one of the sides in the Ukraine war are doing so for political purposes," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said on Monday, when asked about Tehran's delivery of drones to Russia. "We have not given any drones to take part in that war." Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a Philadelphia-based think tank, said a supply of Fateh-100 and Zolfaghar missiles from Iran would hand Russia an even greater advantage on the battlefield. "They could be used to strike military targets at operational depths, and ballistic missiles are more difficult for Ukrainian air defences to intercept," Lee said. DEEPENING TIES WITH MOSCOW Iran's hardline clerical rulers have steadily sought to deepen ties with Russia and China, betting that would help Tehran to resist U.S. sanctions and to end its political isolation. Defence cooperation between Iran and Russia has intensified since Moscow sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu met the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Aerospace Force, Amirali Hajizadeh, in Tehran in September, when Iran's drones, missiles and air defence systems were displayed for him, Iranian state media reported. And last month, Russia's foreign ministry said it expected President Vladimir Putin and his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi to sign a broad new cooperation treaty soon, following talks in Moscow in December. "This military partnership with Russia has shown the world Iran's defence capabilities," said the military official. "It does not mean we are taking sides with Russia in the Ukraine conflict." The stakes are high for Iran's clerical rulers amid the war between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas that erupted after Oct. 7. They also face growing dissent at home over economic woes and social restrictions. While Tehran tries to avoid a direct confrontation with Israel that could draw in the United States, its Axis of Resistance allies - including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen - have attacked Israeli and U.S. targets. A Western diplomat briefed on the matter confirmed the delivery of Iranian ballistic missiles to Russia in the recent weeks, without providing more details. He said Western nations were concerned that Russia's reciprocal transfer of weapons to Iran could strengthen its position in any possible conflict with the United States and Israel. Iran said in November it had finalised arrangements for Russia to provide it with Su-35 fighter jets, Mi-28 attack helicopters and Yak-130 pilot training aircraft. Analyst Gregory Brew at Eurasia Group, a political risk consultancy, said Russia is an ally of convenience for Iran. "The relationship is transactional: in exchange for drones, Iran expects more security cooperation and advanced weaponry, particularly modern aircraft," he said. (Additional reporting by Steve Holland and Phil Stewart in Washington; Writing by Parisa Hafezi; Editing by Daniel Flynn) Opinion articles written in the style of their author." These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. shall feature, along with the author's name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed The leaders of the OECDs Development Assistance Committee (DAC) are worried about the sharp rise in refugee spending by donor nations using Official Development Assistance (ODA) funds. DACs president, Danish diplomat Carsten Staur, called this issue the elephant in the room, and says its a significant hurdle for current global aid policies that require more focus. Recent data on ODA trends in 2022 in the 31 DAC countries reveals a threefold increase in costs for caring for refugees and asylum seekers in their first year, rising from 4.6% in 2021 to 15% in 2022. This growth, unprecedented in humanitarian aid history, surpasses even the Syrian refugee crisis of 2016, and raises doubts about whether international aid policies are adapting quickly enough. The driving force behind this is the war in Ukraine, which has significantly impacted development cooperation policies in two distinct ways. First, there has been a notable increase in resources from all donor countries allocated to Ukraine, making it a major aid recipient. The most recent data indicate that Ukraine received $17.8 billion, with $1.75 billion designated for humanitarian assistance. In 2022, Ukraine received 8% of all international aid from DAC donor countries. The significant increase in aid allocation for the war in Ukraine is mainly due to the rise in refugee aid spending by donor countries. Specifically, the expenditure peaked at $31.75 billion in 2022, representing 15% of global ODA. Western countries, particularly those in the European Union, played a crucial role by swiftly implementing the European Temporary Protection Directive to assist Ukrainian refugees. This directive benefited 4.2 million Ukrainians in European countries. While aid for refugees varies among countries, the Czech Republic, Poland and Ireland allocate over 50% of their total development aid budgets to refugees. The United Kingdom spends 28.9% of its ODA on refugees; Switzerland allocates 28.2%; and Spain allocates 23.5%, which amounted to $990 million in 2022. Spains refugee aid Analyzing recent data on Spains development aid reveals a lack of detailed reporting from the European Union, and from Spains Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Agency for International Development Cooperation. The most recent data was published in 2019. The Spanish government released a brief document about its ODA in 2022, with five generic charts and a table in English copied from CAD. According to recent OECD DAC statistics, Spains development aid has seen a slight increase from 0.26% of gross national income (GNI) in 2021 to 0.30% in 2022. However, this still falls below the DAC average of 0.36% and the E.U. average of 0.57% for the same year. Spain ranks 20th out of 30 donor countries in ODA relative to its GNI, indicating a significant commitment shortfall. The growth in Spanish aid during 2022 is precarious because it relies heavily on temporary measures like pandemic-related spending and emergency support for refugees on Spanish soil, especially Ukrainian refugees. Spain has allocated $305 million for Covid-19 and $990 million for refugee assistance, totaling $1.295 billion in 2022. This amounts to 32% of Spains Official Development Assistance and 60% of its bilateral ODA. About a third of Spains development aid in 2022 went to caring for refugees on Spanish soil, which is quite concerning. Strict reporting criteria Aid to refugees in Spain has surged despite a lack of clear criteria, documentation and transparency on its implementation. Requests for information have been denied, including details on how the money was spent. This is alarming since refugee aid has become a major Spanish bilateral cooperation and development initiative, despite no mention in recent legislation on international cooperation. The OECD Development Assistance Committee standards state that only the first-year cost of covering temporary living expenses for refugees and asylum seekers can be considered exceptional expenses. Costs related to rejected asylum seekers, forced transfers and detentions are not included in the definition of exceptional expenses. Based on this criteria and current data, it appears that Spain has included ineligible items in exceptional expenses that require attention, especially when the CAD Secretariat has demanded strict oversight over refugee aid. In fact, there have been suggestions to prioritize other areas, like aiding less developed countries or combating poverty. Germany and Austria, for instance, have opted not to include those ineligible items in their refugee aid reporting. The war in Ukraine has shifted focus and resources away from initiatives to tackle poverty, support war victims, address climate change impacts and deal with migration triggered by the climate crisis. According to international aid guidelines for refugees, aid allocation may decrease in 2023 under the first-year rule. Its crucial to monitor this to prevent a drop in aid during ongoing crises like famines, setbacks in key sectors like early childhood education and healthcare, and worsening climate chaos that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. To ensure the effectiveness of development aid as a crucial resource in addressing global challenges like poverty, violence, and inequalities, its vital to protect its integrity. Balancing this aid with other priorities, such as refugee assistance in Western nations, is a key discussion that Spain needs to have if the country intends to stick to its commitments and principles. Carlos Gomez Gil is an associate professor and researcher in development cooperation at Spain's Alicante University. He is the the academic director of the Interuniversity Master's Degree in Development Cooperation and a researcher with the university's Institute of International Economics. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition By Alexandra Alper and Karen Freifeld WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Biden administration is turning up the heat on China's top sanctioned chipmaker by cutting off its most advanced factory from more American imports after it produced a sophisticated chip for Huawei's Mate 60 Pro phone, three people familiar with the matter said. Late last year, the Commerce Department sent dozens of letters to U.S. suppliers to Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC), suspending permission to sell to its most advanced plant, said two people familiar with the matter who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter. While many companies had already stopped selling to SMIC South, as the unit is known, the letters halted millions of dollars worth of shipments of chipmaking materials and parts from at least one supplier, Entegris, one of the people said. Reuters found no evidence that Entegris had violated any U.S. laws or regulations. Entegris, whose shares fell 1.9 percent on Wednesday, said it made the shipments in accordance with a valid export license and halted them after receiving letters from the Commerce Department suspending permission to send products to SMIC South. The Massachusetts-based company, which produces filters, gases, chemicals, and products for handling wafers, the building blocks for making chips, said it monitors and complies with the "rapidly evolving regulatory requirements" for international trade affecting the chip industry. SMIC did not respond to a request for comment. Huawei, the White House and the Commerce Department declined to comment. "This is out-and-out economic bullying and will inevitably backfire," said a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington. "We urge the U.S. side to stop overstretching the concept of national security and abusing the state power to suppress Chinese companies. The license suspensions by the Commerce Department, first reported by Reuters, show the Biden administration has taken action against SMIC amid rising pressure from Republican China hawks to stem the flow of U.S. technology to the company and degrade its ability to make sophisticated chips. That pressure has built since August, when sanctioned Chinese telecoms giant Huawei shocked the world with a new phone powered by a sophisticated chip. The Huawei Mate 60 Pro was seen as a symbol of the China's technological resurgence despite Washington's ongoing efforts to cripple its capacity to produce advanced semiconductors. The phone also prompted a review by the Biden administration to learn the details behind the chip that powers it, the most advanced semiconductor China has so far produced. Critics say the round of letters don't go far enough. Republican Congressman Michael McCaul, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, said the Commerce Department should have acted sooner. "This was negligent work by [the agency] and casts further doubt on its ability to fulfill its national security mission," he added in a statement to Reuters this month. Commerce declined to comment on McCaul's allegations of negligence. RISING RESTRICTIONS The United States has charted a slow course towards depriving SMIC and Huawei of access to advanced U.S. technology. Huawei was added to a trade restrictions list in 2019 by the Trump administration over alleged sanctions violations. SMIC was added to the same list in 2020 for alleged ties to the Chinese military industrial complex. Both companies have previously denied wrongdoing. Being added to that list usually bars U.S. companies from selling to the targeted firms, but Trump gave the green light to shipments of certain items to Huawei and SMIC, allowing billions of dollars in U.S. goods to flow to them over the last few years. The Biden administration unveiled new rules in October, 2022, which effectively banned U.S. suppliers from sending semiconductor tools and materials to advanced Chinese-run chipmaking factories in China including SMIC South. But U.S. rules allowed companies with preexisting licenses -- which generally are valid for four years -- to keep supplying the facility. Entegris shipped chipmaking parts and materials to SMIC South between October 2022 and the end of last year, a person familiar with the matter said. China accounted for 16% of Entegris net sales of about $3.5 billion in fiscal 2023, the company said in its annual report, noting that recent U.S. export regulations have reduced our ability to sell our products in China and it is possible future regulation could further reduce demand for our products. Lita Shon-Roy, CEO of market research firm Techcet, said SMIC South could likely turn to Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese and Korean sources for most chemicals and parts used in the chipmaking process. However, if SMICs top facility saw its United States supply chain suddenly cut off, that could potentially interrupt their production for 3 to 9 months depending on inventories, she said. She noted it would take time to find and conduct rigorous testing of new suppliers unless SMIC South had done so in advance. Experts assert that SMIC South is the only SMIC factory with the capability of making the Mate 60's 7 nanometer chip. Analysis firm Techsights also said in September a teardown of the phone revealed SMIC built the advanced processor to power it. "I don't think there's any doubt that it's that [factory]," said Doug Fuller, a chip industry expert with the Copenhagen Business School. Reuters reported in December how a chip designer part-owned by SMIC still enjoys access to state-of-the art U.S. chip design software. (Reporting by Alexandra Alper and additional reporting by Eduardo Baptista in Beijing; editing by Chris Sanders and Anna Driver) Farmers rest in their tractors, after spending the night outside the parliament in Athens in a push for more measures by the government over high production costs in Athens, Greece, February 21, 2024. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki ATHENS (Reuters) -Greek farmers drove their tractors out of central Athens on Wednesday after spending the night in front of parliament to protest against rising fuel and production costs. At least 8,000 farmers, beekeepers and livestock breeders joined the protest on Syntagma Square on Tuesday, echoing grievances at similar demonstrations across Europe, where farmers say they face higher costs and taxes, red tape, excessive environmental rules and competition from cheap imports. Many Greek farmers spent the night on the square before driving out on Wednesday. "We made the move and now we are waiting for the result," said farmer Konstantinos Kyriakopoulos, 34, from the southern Greek region of Messinia. The farmers also say they have been hurt by climate change, with unpredictable flooding, extreme heat and wildfires making their work ever more hazardous. They have briefly blockaded roads and border crossings for weeks while their unions have negotiated with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' conservative government for financial relief. The government has so far offered discounts on power bills and an extension of a tax rebate for agricultural diesel to the end of 2024. It has also said it is willing to discuss a more permanent tax rebate scheme, but that there is no chance of further concessions this year. Farmers have vowed to push for more and were expected to decide later this week on their next moves. "Our decision is to leave Athens now and we will decide by tomorrow our further steps," Rizos Maroudas, head of the farmers union in the agricultural city of Larissa of central Greece told Reuters. While some local grievances vary, farmers' protests have exposed tensions over the impact on farming of the EU's drive to tackle climate change, as well of opening the door to cheap Ukrainian imports to help Kyiv's war effort. Farmers outside Europe are also protesting. In India, police fired tear gas on Wednesday to scatter thousands of farmers as they sought to resume a march to Delhi after rejecting a government offer on prices for their produce. (Reporting by Louisa Gouliamaki, Stamos Prousalis and Lefteris Papadimas; Writing by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Nick Macfie, Alexandra Hudson) FILE PHOTO: Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, is seen as he makes a surprise appearance at a House Oversight Committee markup and meeting to vote on whether to hold Biden in contempt of Congress for failing to respond to a request to testify By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The legal team for Hunter Biden, U.S. President Joe Biden's son, said on Tuesday that an indicted former FBI informant's claims had raised legal troubles for him. In separate court filings, the legal team argued that the claims by the FBI informant - accused of lying about a bribery scheme involving Hunter Biden and his father - threw an earlier plea deal into jeopardy and led to two indictments against Hunter Biden on tax evasion and gun charges. Former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, 43, was charged last week with lying about the Bidens' alleged involvement in business dealings with Ukrainian energy company Burisma Holdings. Smirnov has also had contact with foreign intelligence services, including Russian intelligence agencies, prosecutors have alleged. In a Tuesday court filing, Abbe Lowell, a lawyer for Hunter Biden, called Smirnov's claims "ridiculous," adding: "It now seems clear that the Smirnov allegations infected this case." Prosecutors had followed Smirnov "down his rabbit hole of lies," the filing said. It argued that Hunter Biden's plea deal fell apart because prosecutors at the time were looking into bribery claims from the indicted ex-FBI informant that they now consider to be a lie. In another court filing, Hunter Biden asked for the dismissal of his tax case in California. Hunter Biden, 53, was indicted in September on charges of lying about his drug use when he bought a firearm in 2018, becoming the first child of a sitting president to be charged with a felony. He was again indicted in December in California for failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes. Hunter Biden's legal troubles have been a lightning rod for Republicans, who have made investigations of the president's son a key part of their impeachment inquiry of the president, who is a Democrat. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Michelle Nichols and Himani Sarkar) Smoke rises over Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from Israel, February 21, 2024. REUTERS/Susana Vera By Bassam Masoud, Ibraheem Abu Mustafa and Nidal al-Mughrabi RAFAH, Gaza Strip/CAIRO (Reuters) - Israel intensified its bombardment of Rafah in Gaza's south and over a dozen members of one family were killed in an air strike, residents said, as the ruined Palestinian enclave's health ministry announced 29,313 deaths in the war so far. In Jerusalem, Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz cited "promising early signs of progress" on a new deal to release hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza amid talks conducted by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to secure a pause in the war. The Israeli army (IDF) said it had stepped up operations in Khan Younis, a city just north of Rafah. It made no mention of attacks on Rafah itself in its daily summary of events in Gaza and did not immediately respond to a request for comment. About 1.5 million people are estimated to be crammed into Rafah, on the southernmost fringe of the enclave close to the border with Egypt, most of them having fled their homes further north to escape Israel's military onslaught. The flow of aid entering Gaza from Egypt has almost dried up in the past two weeks, and a collapse in security has made it increasingly difficult to distribute the food that does get through, according to U.N. data and officials. Israel has said it is preparing for a ground assault on Rafah, despite mounting international opposition, including from staunch ally the United States, over fears for civilian lives. Rafah residents reached by text message reported several Israeli air strikes and large explosions in the city, as well as naval boats opening fire on beachfront areas. Reuters video journalists filmed the aftermath of a strike on the home of the Al-Noor family in Rafah, which was reduced to rubble, showing over a dozen bodies wrapped in white or black shrouds and bereaved relatives at a Rafah hospital. Abdulrahman Juma said his wife Noor, who was from the Al-Noor family, as well as his one-year-old daughter Kinza, had both been killed in the strike, along with Noor's parents, brother and other relatives. Juma was holding Kinza's body, wrapped in a bloodstained white shroud. "This one, who is on my lap, took my soul away ... She is one-and-a-half years old," he said. Israel says Hamas militants use civilian buildings as cover, something the Islamist group denies. Local residents also said Israeli tanks had advanced west from Khan Younis into Al-Mawasi, previously an area of relative safety where the army had told Palestinians to seek shelter. The tanks reached the coastal road, effectively cutting off Khan Younis and Rafah from the rest of the Gaza Strip, though they retreated after a few hours, according to residents. Gaza's health ministry said on Wednesday 69,333 people had been injured in Gaza since the start of the war on Oct. 7, in addition to 29,313 deaths, with 118 killed in the past 24 hours. The war was triggered by Hamas militants who burst over the border into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 253 hostage, according to Israeli tallies. Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel has responded with an air and ground blitz on Gaza that has displaced most of the population of 2.3 million, caused widespread hunger and laid waste to much of the territory. HOSTAGE RELEASE TALKS Gantz told a televised press briefing that efforts were continuing to broker a new hostage release deal and "there are promising early signs of possible progress". "We will not stop looking for a way and we will not miss any opportunity to bring our girls and boys home," he said. But Gantz warned that if no new deal were struck, the Israeli military would keep fighting in Gaza even into the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins next month. Weeks of negotiations have failed to yield a breakthrough, with Israel dismissing Hamas' demand for a halt to the war and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for more hostage releases as "delusional". During the sole pause in fighting so far, a week-long truce in late November, 110 hostages were freed in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is worsening by the day. The World Food Programme said on Tuesday it had paused deliveries of food aid to northern Gaza after its trucks were attacked by hungry crowds and faced looting and gunfire. Britain said on Wednesday that Jordan had air-dropped four tonnes of UK-funded aid including medicines, fuel and food to Tal Al-Hawa Hospital in Gaza's north but that "more aid is needed, and fast". ANGER AT UNITED STATES At the site of the bombed house in Rafah, neighbours and relatives vented their anger at the U.S., which on Tuesday vetoed a draft U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. "Since October 7 and until this moment, the U.S. has been supporting Israel with rockets, aircraft and tanks. All of these massacres are because of America," said Youssef Sheikh Al-Eid, whose brother had been living in the targeted house. Residents of Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza and Khan Younis also reported overnight strikes and deaths, and multiple funerals were held on Wednesday morning. The Israeli military said 29 militants were killed in targeted operations in Khan Younis in the past 24 hours. It said Israeli forces also destroyed a tunnel that stretched over 1 kilometre under Khan Younis and was used by senior Hamas officials and the group's regional brigade as a hideout and for managing combat operations. (Additional reporting by Ahmed Elimam in Dubai and Ari Rabinovitch in Jerusalem; writing by Estelle Shirbon and Mark Heinrich; editing by Sharon Singleton and Philippa Fletcher) BEIRUT/JERUSALEM (Reuters) -An Israeli air strike killed a woman and a child in south Lebanon on Wednesday, sources in Lebanon said, days after Hezbollah said it would inflict a price on Israel for killing civilians in the conflict across the Israeli-Lebanese border. The deaths add to the toll from more than four months of violence that has played out in parallel to the Gaza war, fuelling concerns of an even more ruinous conflict between heavily armed adversaries that last fought a major war in 2006. The woman and girl were killed near Majdal Zoun, a village some 6 km (4 miles) from the border, according to two security sources and a medical source in Lebanon. The Iran-backed Hezbollah said it responded to "Israeli attacks on civilian villages and homes, especially ... in Majdal Zoun", by firing Katyusha rockets at Matzuva, an Israeli kibbutz over the border. The Israeli army said it had hit "a Hezbollah operational command center in the area of Mansouri", a village a few kilometres (miles) from Majdal Zoun. "As a result of the presence of Hezbollah weapons and ammunition within the command center, a large explosion occurred which most likely caused damage to the surrounding area," it said. "The claim that the explosion caused harm to uninvolved civilians is under review," it said, adding that the Israeli army "takes significant measures to prevent any harm to non-combatants". In comments broadcast by al-Akhbar newspaper, the father of the six-year-old girl killed in the strike said she had asked to visit her village, which they fled after the eruption of hostilities last year. The Hezbollah movement has been trading fire with Israel since the Oct. 7 attack by its Palestinian ally Hamas on southern Israel in a campaign Hezbollah says aims to support Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah announced a dozen attacks by its fighters on Wednesday. The Israeli army earlier said its warplanes had struck three Hezbollah operational command centers in southern Lebanon. It said Israeli army artillery had also fired "to remove a threat" in the areas of Alma al-Shaab and Dhayra, both villages at the border. Hezbollah signalled on Friday it would escalate attacks on Israel in response to the deaths of 10 Lebanese civilians in Israeli attacks last week. Israeli strikes since Oct. 8 have killed some 50 civilians in Lebanon, in addition to nearly 200 Hezbollah fighters. Attacks from Lebanon into Israel have killed a dozen Israeli soldiers troops and five civilians. The violence has uprooted tens of thousands of people on both sides of the border. (Reporting by Laila Bassam in Beirut and Ari Rabinovitch and James Mackenzie in Jerusalem; Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Peter Graff, Angus MacSwan and Cynthia Osterman) Do Kwon, the cryptocurrency entrepreneur, who created the failed Terra (UST) stablecoin, is taken to court in handcuffs, to face charges of forging official documents, in Podgorica, Montenegro, March 24, 2023. REUTERS/Stevo Vasiljevic/File Photo (Reuters) - A court in Montenegro on Wednesday ruled that crypto entrepreneur and Terraforms Labs co-founder Do Kwon should be extradited to the United States, rather than to his home country South Korea, to stand trial on fraud charges, the Wall Street Journal reported. In 2023, Do Kwon and Terraform were charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission with a multibillion-dollar fraud. The SEC's civil case against Terraform and Kwon stems from the collapse of TerraUSD, a "stablecoin" designed to maintain a constant $1 price, and the more traditional token Luna, which was closely linked to TerraUSD. Both cryptocurrencies lost an estimated $40 billion or more when TerraUSD in May 2022 failed to maintain its $1 peg. The SEC said Terraform and Kwon deceived investors about the stability of TerraUSD, and how a popular Korean mobile payment app used the Terraform blockchain to settle transactions. Kwon has been held in Montenegro since his arrest last March and has previously denied allegations. Last month, a federal judge delayed the SEC's trial to allow time for Kwon to be extradited so he can attend. In an order, U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff in Manhattan pushed back the trial to March 25 from Jan. 29, with no further delays even if Kwon were not extradited. (Reporting by Pritam Biswas in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel) By Ann Wang and Walid Berrazeg KINMEN, Taiwan (Reuters) - Taiwanese fishermen in sensitive waters around frontline islands near the Chinese coast say they are worried about rising tensions, after two Chinese nationals died during a chase with Taiwan's coast guard. The two died when Taiwan's coast guard tried to expel their boat, which then overturned, after it had gotten too close to an islet that is part of the Kinmen islands, governed from Taipei since the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949. A furious China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, responded by launching its own coast guard patrols, and on Monday boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat operating off Kinmen. "After this incident, fishermen will still be psychologically affected to an extent when they go to sea," said Huang Tsung-feng, secretary of the Kinmen Fishermen's Association, although he said the number of boats heading to sea in the past few days was still normal. "If the fishery administration fleet on the mainland comes out, this behaviour will cause some pressure on our fishermen while working at sea. They will be afraid because of this." Kinmen, home to around 100,000 people, hosts a large Taiwanese military garrison, just a short boat ride from the Chinese cities of Xiamen and Quanzhou. Taiwan's coast guard patrols its waters, and several of Kinmen's surrounding islets are heavily fortified and mostly off-limits to civilians, including Beiding, the islet near where the Chinese boat overturned. China said last week it recognises no banned or restricted waters for fishermen around Kinmen. One Kinmen fisherman, who asked to be identified by his family name Chen, said Chinese vessels often crossed into Taiwan waters. "In fact, the most serious problem on our side is the fishermen from the mainland, who come over to our coastal areas to release their nets, sometimes 50 or 60 at a time," he said. "When the coast guard comes, they run away; when the coast guard doesn't come, they just fish over here." Kinmen was the scene of sometimes intense fighting between Taiwanese and Chinese forces during the height of the Cold War but is today a popular holiday destination, with many tourists drawn to its old bunkers and bullet-pocked wartime sites. (Reporting by Ann Wang and Walid Berrazeg; Writing by Fabian Hamacher and Ben Blanchard; Editing by Peter Graff) By Pawel Florkiewicz and Karol Badohal WARSAW (Reuters) -Lawmakers from Poland's ruling coalition will submit a preliminary motion to put central bank chief Adam Glapinski before a state tribunal by the end of March, state news agency PAP reported a lawmaker as saying, in what would be an unprecedented move for the European Union state. The new pro-EU government led by Donald Tusk has vowed to ensure those it accuses of wrongdoing during the rule of the previous nationalist government will be brought to account and has launched sweeping changes in state media and the judicial system. However, launching a process that may result in the removal of the central bank governor is a potentially riskier move. The head of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, told Glapinski in a letter that he could refer any such move to the EU's top court as it may affect the bank's independence. "We are working on a preliminary motion to hold the President of the NBP accountable before the State Tribunal and we are determined to carry out this process," Janusz Cichon, chairman of the parliament's Public Finance Committee, told PAP. "We plan to submit a substantively prepared motion to parliament by the end of March," said Cichon, who is a member of Tusk's Civic Coalition (KO), the largest grouping in the ruling coalition. Speaking to Reuters, Cichon said he was confident his Civic Platform party would collect the 115 lawmaker signatures needed to put forward the preliminary motion, once its wording was finalised. He declined to detail the exact charges to be levied against Glapinski. The zloty currency was little moved by the news and was 0.24% weaker on the day at 1618 GMT. ACCUSATIONS Glapinski, whose ties to the leader of the former ruling party Law and Justice (PiS) go back decades, has been accused by the current government of not being sufficiently independent. He has also faced accusations of misleading the finance ministry over the central bank's results and of potentially breaking constitutional rules that prevent the central bank from financing government borrowing when it launched a quantitative easing programme during the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Bank of Poland (NBP) could not immediately be reached for comment. "I do not comment on political decisions in this matter," said Joanna Tyrowicz, a member of the rate-setting Monetary Policy Council (MPC) who has been critical of Glapinski. "Stability and predictability are expected from the central bank, but the governor does not provide this." Fellow rate-setter Przemyslaw Litwiniuk, who has also spoken critically about Glapinski, said he did not think the decision posed any threats to the bank's functioning. "In a democratic country, this is not an extraordinary situation and it does not in any way affect the conditions for implementing the NBP's mission," he said. Glapinski himself has provided staunch defences of his record, pointing to a sharp fall in inflation over recent months and saying that quantitative easing was essential to rescuing the largest economy in the European Union's eastern wing during the pandemic. The NBP issued a statement earlier on Wednesday rejecting claims it misled the government over its results and attributing the change to the rapid strengthening of the zloty following a general election last year. It had said in August that it would contribute about 6 billion zlotys to the state budget from its profits, but this will now not be possible as it will report a loss. Poland's Constitutional Tribunal ruled in January that the government would need a three-fifths majority in parliament to summon Glapinski to a state tribunal, complicating its task. Tusk has said there could be other ways of removing him and that the Tribunal's ruling was not binding. (Reporting by Alan Charlish, Anna Koper, Pawel Florkiewicz, Karol Badohal; Editing by Tomasz Janowski, William Maclean and Jonathan Oatis) (Reuters) -Qantas Airways said on Wednesday John Mullen will join the company board as chairman-elect from July 1, and replace its outgoing chair Richard Goyder ahead of the Australian flag carrier's annual general meeting in October. Mullen is currently the chairman at Treasury Wine Estate as well as independent and non-executive chair at logistics firm Brambles. He also served on the board of Telstra for 15 years, before retiring as chairman after the telecom major's annual meeting last October. Treasury Wine and Brambles did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for comment over the status of Mullen's role in both companies following the fresh appointment at Qantas. The New South Wales-based carrier also appointed Nora Scheinkestel as a non-executive director and chair of Qantas' remuneration committee. The appointments, which came in four months after Qantas said Goyder would step down in late 2024, are a part of the airline's board renewal to restore trust among investors and fix its battered reputation. Goyder, who became chairman in 2018, has previously fought against pressure to resign including from the airline's pilots, saying that he had followed high ethics throughout his career. Alan Joyce, who was Qantas' CEO for 15 years, retired early last September after a public backlash. The airline had said Joyce's exit would help "accelerate its renewal", giving the sense of a company bowing to public and political pressure after years of weathering it. The carrier has been facing challenges in recent times, with the High Court of Australia in September dismissing its appeal against a judgement that found Qantas had cut jobs unlawfully. The ruling came days after Australia's competition regulator sued the carrier over selling fake seats. Qantas is set to report its half-year earnings on Feb. 22. (Reporting by Echha Jain in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips) Reddit app is seen on a smartphone in this illustration taken, July 13, 2021. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo (Reuters) -Social media platform Reddit plans to sell a chunk of its IPO shares to its platform's users, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. It aims to reserve an as-yet-undetermined number of shares for 75,000 of its most prolific so-called redditors when it goes public next month, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter. The users will have the opportunity to buy Reddit shares at its initial public offering (IPO) price before the stock starts trading, a privilege normally reserved only for big investors, the report said. The San Francisco-based company, which was valued at about $10 billion in a funding round in 2021, declined to comment. Reuters in January reported that Reddit has drawn up detailed plans for its IPO in March. It had filed confidentially for its IPO back in December 2021. The IPO market has not yet fully recovered as it has been struggling for the last two years with low volumes while several new entrants trade below their IPO prices. Reddit's IPO, which has been in the works for more than three years now, would be the first from a major social media company since Pinterest's debut in 2019. (Reporting by Jaiveer Singh Shekhawat in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur) Campaigners from Avaaz stage a protest outside the UN before a United Nations Security Council vote on a US-proposed draft resolution, which calls for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, at United Nations headquarters in New York, New York, USA, 20 February 2024. The United States on Tuesday vetoed an Arab-backed and widely supported U.N. resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war in the embattled Gaza Strip, saying it would interfere with negotiations on a deal to free hostages abducted in Israel. The vote in the 15-member Security Council was 13-1 with the United Kingdom abstaining, reflecting the strong support from countries around the globe for ending the more than four-month war, which started when Hamas militants invaded southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. Since then, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israels military offensive, according to the Gaza Health Ministry which says the vast majority were women and children. It was the third U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution demanding a cease-fire in Gaza and came a day after the United States circulated a rival resolution that would support a temporary cease-fire in Gaza linked to the release of all hostages and call for the lifting of all restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid. Virtually every council member including the United States expressed serious concern at the impending catastrophe in Gazas southern city of Rafah, where some 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge, if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu goes ahead with his plan to evacuate civilians from the city and move Israels military offensive to the area bordering Egypt, where Israel says Hamas fighters are hiding. Before the vote, Algerias U.N. Ambassador Amar Bendjama, the Arab representative on the council, said: This resolution stands for truth and humanity standing against the advocates for murder and hatred. A vote in favor of this draft resolution is a support to the Palestinians right to life, he said. Conversely, voting against it implies an endorsement of the brutal violence and collective punishment inflicted against them. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United States understands the councils desire for urgent action but believes the resolution would negatively impact sensitive negotiations on a hostage deal and pause in fighting for at least six weeks. If that happens, we can take the time to build a more enduring peace, she said. The proposed U.S. resolution, Thomas-Greenfield said, would do what this text does not pressure Hamas to take the hostage deal that is on the table and help secure a pause that allows humanitarian assistance to reach Palestinian civilians in desperate need. What happens next remains to be seen. The 22-nation Arab Group could take its resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, which includes all 193 U.N. member nations, where it is virtually certain to be approved. But unlike Security Council resolutions, assembly resolutions are not legally binding. Thomas-Greenfield told the council the United States will work in earnest in negotiating on its proposed resolution, leaving time for all council members to comment, rather than impose an arbitrary deadline for the vote. The defeated Arab-backed resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire to be respected by all parties, which implies an end to the war. By contrast, the U.S. draft resolution would underscore the Security Councils support for a temporary cease-fire as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released, and call for lifting all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale. It is the first time the U.S. has used the word cease-fire, as opposed to cessation of hostilities. The Arab draft would also have demanded the immediate release of all hostages, rejected the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, called for unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza, and reiterated council demands that Israel and Hamas scrupulously comply with international law, especially the protection of civilians. Without naming either party, it would have condemned all acts of terrorism and reiterated the councils unwavering commitment to a two-state solution with two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in peace. In measures sure to anger Israel and reinforce differences and tensions between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israels Netanyahu the U.S. draft resolution reiterates the same unwavering commitment to a two-state solution, which the Israeli leader opposes. Biden has repeatedly called on Israel to protect Palestinian civilians, and the draft resolution says Israels planned major ground offensive in Rafah should not proceed under current circumstances. And it warns that further displacement of civilians, including potentially into neighboring countries, a reference to Egypt, would have serious implications for regional peace and security. In another criticism directed at Israel, the U.S. draft condemns calls by government ministers for the resettlement of Gaza and rejects an attempt at demographic or territorial change in Gaza that would violate international law. While this was the third U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire, the council has adopted two resolutions on Gaza where the U.S. abstained. Its first resolution, on Nov. 15, called for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses in Gaza to address the escalating crisis for Palestinian civilians during Israels aerial and ground attacks. On Dec. 22, the council adopted a watered-down resolution calling for immediately speeding aid deliveries to hungry and desperate civilians in Gaza, but without the original plea for an urgent suspension of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. It did call for creating the conditions for a sustainable cessation of hostilities. The steps are not defined, but diplomats said it was the councils first reference to stopping fighting. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition ZURICH (Reuters) - Switzerland is increasing its efforts to crack down on companies and individuals who are using the neutral country to circumvent sanctions imposed on Russia. The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has set up a specialist team to investigate and enforce sanctions which Bern imposed following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine two years ago. The move comes after Switzerland last year came under fire for not doing enough to prevent Russians hiding money in Swiss banks. Around 7.7 billion Swiss francs of assets had been frozen at the end of last year, a fraction of the 150 billion francs of Russian money estimated to be held in Swiss banks. SECO said on Wednesday that 230 potential sanctions breaches have been reported to it since the invasion following tip-offs from financial companies, customs officials and other countries. This led to 47 proceedings, with 20 cases being dropped, and nine fines of varying severity handed out. Some 18 cases are still active, with new cases being added all the time, SECO said. The majority of cases relate to breaches of bans on exporting luxury goods or products of economic importance to Russia which could support Moscow's war effort, a SECO spokesman said. While SECO carries out the more simple investigations, the more complicated cases are handed over to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), which last week said it was looking into possible breaches. Swiss broadcaster RTS said last week the OAG has also been called into two cases involving commodities trading companies. The OAG declined to comment on the cases. "The complexity of these cases is very high," said Simon Pluess, the head of export controls and sanctions at SECO. "For example there are often companies hiding behind other companies and we have to establish who the beneficial owner is." Other countries were now recognising that Switzerland was taking sanctions seriously, he said. "When we talk with international partners they have recognised that Switzerland is doing a lot," Pluess said. "Switzerland is also sharing information with other countries. The criticism has mostly disappeared." (Reporting by John Revill, Editing by William Maclean) By Lewis Jackson SYDNEY (Reuters) - A Sydney martial arts instructor has been arrested for the alleged triple murder of a South Korean family living in the city after a child and woman were found dead in a Taekwondo centre, Australian police said on Wednesday. Police arrested the 49-year-old man in hospital late on Tuesday night, Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty told a press conference. The man, who is under police guard and expected to be charged with three murders, was being treated for apparent stab wounds to his chest, arms and stomach, according to a separate police statement. Police said he arrived at Westmead Hospital in Sydney's northwest just before midnight on Monday and subsequently told officers he had been attacked in the car park of a supermarket. In the course of investigating the man's assault on Tuesday morning, police found the body of a 39-year-old man in the suburb of Baulkham Hills in the city's northwest with what appeared to be multiple fatal stab wounds. Two hours later, police found the bodies of a 41-year-old woman and seven-year-old boy at a martial arts centre in the nearby suburb of North Parramatta. Police believe the family of three were originally from South Korea and lived in Baulkham Hills. Police have contacted the country's local consulate. "They (the woman and child) were subjected to an assault, we'll allege it was with murderous intent and they died from their injuries," Doherty said. Doherty said the seven-year-old regularly took Taekwondo lessons in the centre where his body was found and knew the instructor. He had been set to attend a session on Monday, the day he was allegedly killed. Police said it was too early in the investigation to speak about motive. (Reporting by Lewis Jackson; Editing by Michael Perry) By Rich McKay (Reuters) - A Tennessee company that provides cleaning services for animal slaughterhouses has employed people as young as 13 years old to clean dangerous equipment on overnight shifts in violation of federal law, according to a court document filed on Wednesday. The filing by the U.S. Department of Labor accused Fayette Janitorial Service LLC of Memphis of employing 15 underaged workers to clean a Perdue Farms poultry plant in Virginia and nine at a Seaboard Triumph Foods pork-processing plant in Iowa. The equipment cleaned by the young people included machines used to split the heads of slaughtered animals and bandsaws to cut meat. It is unlawful to hire anyone under age 18 to do such work, the Labor Department said. The employment of children in hazardous occupations is an egregious violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act that should never occur, U.S. Solicitor of Labor Seema Nanda said in a release. The Department of Labor continues to use every available legal resource to protect workers and end child labor violations." Neither of the company's owners, Dale Burns and Michelle Burns, nor their representatives responded to a request for comment. Representatives for Seaboard Triumph and Perdue Farms did not immediately return phone calls. The Labor Department asked the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa to impose a temporary restraining order on Fayette Janitorial to stop the company from using "oppressive child labor." "This is a first step," said Scott Allen, spokesperson for the Department of Labor, adding that an investigation was still underway. Fayette Janitorial employs 600 people in 30 states, according to its website. (Reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta; Editing by Frank McGurty and Bill Berkrot) FILE PHOTO: A representations of cryptocurrencies in this illustration taken, January 24, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo By Jody Godoy (Reuters) -A Texas cryptocurrency company and an industry group sued the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday, saying the regulator has overstepped its authority and asking a judge to rule that digital assets traded on exchanges are not securities. Fort Worth-based crypto company Lejilex and lobbying group Crypto Freedom Alliance of Texas (CFAT) claim the SEC has asserted jurisdiction over the industry without a "clear statutory mandate." Lejilex says it seeks to run a cryptocurrency platform called Legit.Exchange. The company formed last year said it plans to list digital assets including those the SEC has deemed securities in lawsuits against Coinbase, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S., and Binance, the world's largest crypto exchange. Lejilex wants the court to rule that listing pre-existing tokens will not violate securities laws. "We wish we were launching our business instead of filing a lawsuit, but here we are," Lejilex co-founder Mike Wawszczak said in a statement. A spokesperson for the SEC did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Both Coinbase and Binance have denied the SEC's allegations. CFAT asked the court to block the SEC from suing its members, and said the agency's assertion of jurisdiction over digital assets has made it harder to convince Texas lawmakers to embrace "sensible policies." The group launched last year and counts Coinbase and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz's a16z crypto fund as members. CFAT and Lejilex argue the SEC is wrong to classify digital assets as "investment contracts" because they create no ongoing commitment between creator and purchaser. They also asked the court to apply the "major questions" doctrine, which lets judges invalidate executive agency actions of "vast economic and political significance" unless Congress clearly authorized them. The once-rare doctrine has gained traction among regulatory opponents, as the conservative-leaning U.S. Supreme Court has applied it in a couple of recent cases. Crypto companies fighting SEC enforcement actions, including Coinbase and Binance, have made the same arguments in the other cases, so far without success. A judge in July rejected the argument that an ongoing commitment is required to make an asset a security in the SEC's case against Ripple Labs. Another judge overseeing the regulator's lawsuit against Terraform Labs found the "major questions" doctrine does not apply to the cryptocurrency industry. Both of those cases were brought in New York. The new lawsuit filed in federal court in Fort Worth brings the industry's fight with the regulator under the jurisdiction of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. More than two thirds of the judges on the appeals court were appointed by Republican presidents, making it the favored venue for challenges to the SEC under the Biden administration. The case was assigned to Judge Reed O'Connor, an appointee of Republican former President George W. Bush with a track record of ruling in favor of conservative litigants challenging laws and regulations governing guns, LGBTQ rights and healthcare. Paul Clement, former U.S. Solicitor General under President George W. Bush, represents the plaintiffs. (Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Editing by Andrea Ricci) People gather outside the Russian embassy, following the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, reported by prison authorities in Russia's Yamalo-Nenets region where he had been serving his sentence, in Warsaw, Poland, February 16, 2024. Dawid By Gram Slattery GREENVILLE, South Carolina (Reuters) -Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Alexei Navalny was "a very brave man" who probably should not have returned to Russia, without assigning any blame for the Russian opposition leader's unexpected death. Democratic President Joe Biden and other Western leaders have blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalny's death, as has Nikki Haley, who trails far behind Trump as his sole remaining rival for the Republican presidential nomination. "Navalny is a very sad situation, and he is a very brave, he was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away," Trump said during a town hall interview with Fox News in South Carolina. "And, frankly, he probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that could happen and it did happen. And it's a horrible thing," he said. The Kremlin has denied involvement in Navalny's death and said Western claims that Putin was responsible are unacceptable. Trump - who has expressed admiration for Putin both during his 2017-2021 White House tenure and afterward - continued to compare himself to Navalny, implying that they both had faced politically motivated prosecutions. "But it's happening in our country too," Trump said. "We are turning into a communist country in many ways. And if you look at it - I'm the leading candidate. I get indicted." On Sunday, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post that Navalny's death in an Arctic penal colony last week had made him "more aware of what is happening" in the United States. Trump did not elaborate, but he has frequently dismissed the 91 criminal charges against him as politically motivated, a claim prosecutors deny. Biden on Tuesday issued a blistering critique of Trump's Truth Social post on Navalny's death, saying, "Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" During the Fox News town hall, which was conducted before a live audience in Greenville four days before the state's primary contest, Trump continued to blast migrants, portraying them as a threat to public safety without offering any evidence to support his claims that they are more violent than native-born Americans. At several moments, 77-year-old Trump's answers to questions veered into tangential topics. While being asked about electric vehicles and Americans' "freedom of movement," Trump spoke about the usefulness of tariffs and described his interactions with an unnamed American dishwasher company during his time in office. Trump praised South Carolina U.S. Senator Tim Scott, who joined Trump on stage for the final part of the interview. The former president has privately asked associates about naming Scott, a one-time rival in the Republican nomination battle, as his running mate, sources familiar with the matter have previously said. Tying himself to Scott may have short-term electoral benefits for the former president in the South Carolina primary, as voters choose who they want as the Republican nominee to take on Biden in the Nov. 5 election. Trump is leading Haley, a former South Carolina governor and former ambassador to the United Nations under Trump, by more than 30 percentage points in South Carolina, according to most polls, and his team is eager to deliver a crushing blow. However, Haley has said there is no way she will drop out and that she plans to keep campaigning into March. (Reporting by Gram Slattery; editing by Deepa Babington and Leslie Adler) FILE PHOTO: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) logo is seen outside the headquarters building in Washington, U.S., September 4, 2018. REUTERS/Yuri Gripas/File Photo WASHINGTON (Reuters) - International Monetary Fund officials are negotiating with Ukrainian officials in Warsaw, Poland this week about a follow-on disbursement of $890 million from the country's $15.6 billion loan, a source familiar with the process said on Wednesday. Negotiations are ongoing, the source said, noting the IMF mission, which began on Saturday, ends on Thursday. Movement on fresh IMF funds comes as the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives continues to hold up some $61 billion in U.S. aid for Ukraine. The Senate in a bipartisan vote earlier this month passed a $95 billion aid package that includes funds for Ukraine, but the measure is stalled in the House, which Republicans control by a narrow 219-212 margin. Once a staff agreement is reached on the next tranche of IMF funds for Ukraine, it will be reviewed by IMF management and the executive board, with final approval likely in the second half of March, the source said. Bloomberg reported earlier that the IMF was nearing an agreement on a new disbursement of $900 million. An IMF spokesperson confirmed that an IMF staff team, led by Gavin Gray, was in Warsaw to carry out a third review of Ukraine's loan Extended Fund Facility Arrangement, but declined to comment on the amount of a possible disbursement. "The team will communicate at the end of mission," the spokesperson said. (Reporting by Disha Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) A Union Pacific rail car is parked at the Canadian Pacific Railway (CP Rail) Toronto Yard in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada March 20, 2022. REUTERS/Chris Helgren/File Photo (Reuters) - Railroad operator Union Pacific said on Wednesday it plans to invest $3.4 billion this year to support safer operations, renew assets and increase capacity. "We invest to keep our railroad and employees safe and we will never compromise on that," CEO Jim Vena said. Union Pacific will continue to modernize the locomotive fleet, upgrading older core units. The plan also includes targeted freight car acquisitions to support replacement and growth opportunities, the rail operator said. The Omaha, Nebraska-based company, which runs through 23 states west of Chicago and New Orleans, said it is also investing in increasing capacity across its network. It will continue to expand its freight footprint, supporting business development in targeted, high-growth areas such as Southern California, Phoenix and Kansas City, Union Pacific said. (Reporting by Kannaki Deka in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai) FILE PHOTO: U.S. Sen. Chris Coons, (D-DE), speaks to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken who testifies during the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs hearing, to review of the fiscal year 2023 budget re By Maya Gebeily BEIRUT (Reuters) -The Israeli military and Hezbollah have a window to de-escalate tensions along Lebanon's southern border before a possible Israeli military offensive against the Lebanese armed group, two Democratic U.S. senators told Reuters on Wednesday. Senators Chris Coons and Richard Blumenthal met Lebanese officials on a tour of the region, which has been gripped by conflict following Hamas's Oct. 7 attack on Israel, which responded with a heavy air, land, and sea assault on Gaza. In Lebanon, Israeli shelling has killed nearly 190 Hezbollah fighters and 50 civilians. A dozen Israeli troops and five Israeli civilians have been killed in northern Israel, and tens of thousands have been displaced on each side. "The next few weeks are a real hinge point - for Gaza, for Israel, for Lebanon, for the Red Sea, for Iraq," said Coons, adding that a ceasefire for Gaza could have "positive consequences" for Lebanon. "It could create that window of 45 days, quite likely during Ramadan as well, when the next steps can be taken to begin to build the confidence that could lead to a full implementation of (United Nations Security Council resolution) 1701," he said. That 2006 resolution ended the last major conflict between Hezbollah and Israel and says no armed factions should be present in a swathe of south Lebanon except the Lebanese army. France submitted a written proposal to Lebanon earlier this month on a possible diplomatic resolution. U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein has also been working on a plan, which Coons said he hoped was "making steady progress" without sharing further details. He said there was an "urgency" for both sides to de-escalate. The senators said they told Lebanese Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, who heads the Hezbollah-allied Amal Movement, that Israel "is not bluffing" about an offensive. "It's not just rhetoric. It will act. And we hope that that message was conveyed to Hezbollah," Blumenthal said. (Reporting by Maya Gebeily; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) By Humeyra Pamuk and Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. State Department on Wednesday condemned internet shutdowns in Pakistan, including restrictions on social media platforms, and urged the Pakistani government to lift such restrictions. Internet monitoring advocates have pointed out internet outages and restrictions after protests following claims of election irregularities in Pakistan. "We are concerned by any reports of restrictions on the exercise of the freedom of expression and association in Pakistan, including the partial or complete government-imposed internet shutdowns, which includes, of course, on social media platforms," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Wednesday. Miller said that Washington called on Pakistan to respect freedom of expression and "restore access to any social media that has been restricted, including Twitter." He said the U.S. concerns had been communicated to Pakistan through official channels. The Netblocks global internet monitor on Wednesday cited instances of restrictions. "Metrics show that X/Twitter remains largely restricted in Pakistan past the four-day mark; imposed on Saturday as disclosures relating to election fraud circulated on the platform," Netblocks said. Voters in Pakistan went to the polls earlier this month, in a vote marred by a mobile internet shutdown on election day and unusually delayed results, leading to accusations that the vote was rigged. United States, Britain and the European Union have separately expressed concerns about Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of the elections. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Leslie Adler) false 0001544190 0001544190 2024-02-15 2024-02-15 iso4217:USD xbrli:shares iso4217:USD xbrli:shares UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Form 8-K Current Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): Shepherds Finance, LLC (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Commission File Number: 333-263759 Delaware 36-4608739 (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation) (IRS Employer Identification No.) 13241 Bartram Park Blvd. , Suite 2401 , Jacksonville , Florida 32258 (Address of principal executive offices, including zip code) (302) 752-2688 (Registrants telephone number, including area code) None. (Former name or former address, if changed since last report) Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions: Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12) Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b)) Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c)) Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of Each Class Trading Symbol(s) Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered None None None Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.405) or Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.12b-2). Emerging growth company If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. Item 1.01. Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement. On February 15, 2024, Shepherds Finance, LLC (the Company) entered into a certain Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (the Agreement) with Mark L. Hoskins and Barrett Hoskins, pursuant to which Mark L. Hoskins and Barrett Hoskins agreed to sell to the Company and the Company agreed to purchase from Mark L. Hoskins and Barrett Hoskins 100% of the membership interests (the Acquisition) in 339 Justabout Land Co., LLC (339), a land development company, for a purchase price of approximately $3,892,000 (the Purchase Price). 339 was formed in 2022 and, in 2022, purchased a large tract of land in Peters Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh. The property has since been subdivided into two parcels. One parcel is being developed into 37 lots which should be available for construction of homes starting in the summer of 2024, of which one lot was purchased and is currently owned by Benjamin Marcus Homes, LLC (BMH), and the other parcel will be developed into 24 lots, which should be available for construction later this year or early next year (36 lots owned by 339 which should be available for construction, together with 24 lots owned by 339 which should be available for construction, the 60 Lots). The total expected selling price of the lots is $17,800,000. The Purchase Price was then deposited by Mark L. Hoskins and BMH, which they also own, as equity. BMH immediately repaid an intercompany debt to 339 of $892,000, which in turn was returned to the Company, leaving the net investment at $3,000,000. 339 was purchased subject to the debt owed by 339, which included a first position development loan from the Company, and two subordinate financings from lenders outside of the Company. After the Acquisition, the Company will have approximately $9,100,000 invested in 339 and 339 will have an additional approximately $1,900,000 in debt. The Company anticipates further expenditures of $2,700,000 for development, not including capitalized interest. In connection with the Acquisition, the Company caused 339 to enter into an agreement with BMH which gives BMH the option to purchase certain 37 lots owned by 339 for a period of one year at specified prices (the Option Agreement). BMH may exercise two additional one-year extensions 60 days prior to the expiration of the current option period or extension period subject to certain conditions. BMH incurred an option fee of $890,000 for the first year of the option agreement. The Company is also working with BMH to sell some lots to a third party. The Company also caused 339 to enter into a management services agreement (the Management Services Agreement) with BMH to manage the development of 60 Lots for a period of three years. The Management Services Agreement only pays BMH if all of the 60 Lots are sold within three years. If that is achieved, BMH will receive 67% of the profit from the sale of the 60 Lots. As a result of the Acquisition, the Company has lowered the amount it is lending to BMH, its largest customer, which is owned by Mark Hoskins, and anticipates having direct sales contracts with third party builders for some of the lots, further reducing its exposure to its largest customer. Item 2.01. Completion of Acquisition or Disposition of Assets. On February 15, 2024, the Company completed the Acquisition of 339. The information contained in Item 1.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K is incorporated by reference into this Item 2.01. Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits. (a) Financial statements of real estate acquired. Since it is impracticable to provide the required financial statements for the acquired business described in Item 2.01 at the time of this filing and no financials (audited or unaudited) are available at this time, the Company hereby confirms that it intends to file the required financial statements within 71 calendar days by amendment to this Form 8-K. (b) Pro forma financial statements. See paragraph (a) above (d) Exhibits. Certain schedules, annexes and exhibits have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K, but will be furnished supplementally to the SEC upon request. Signature(s) Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized. Shepherds Finance, LLC Date: February 21, 2024 By: /s/ Daniel M. Wallach Daniel M. Wallach Chief Executive Officer and Manager ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS ex10-1.htm ex10-2.htm ex10-3.htm INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA DOCUMENT INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABEL LINKBASE DOCUMENT INLINE XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT IDEA: R1.htm IDEA: Financial_Report.xlsx IDEA: FilingSummary.xml IDEA: MetaLinks.json IDEA: form8-k_htm.xml Demonstrators hold signs reading 'Justice for Jovenel' outside a judicial hearing into the assassination of President Jovenel Moise attended by former first lady Martine Moise, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti October 6, 2021. A judge in Haiti responsible for investigating the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise has indicted his widow, Martine Moise, ex-prime minister Claude Joseph and the former chief of Haitis National Police, Leon Charles, among others, according to a report obtained Monday. The indictments are expected to further destabilize Haiti as it struggles with a surge in gang violence and recovers from a spate of violent protests demanding the resignation of current Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Dozens of suspects were indicted in the 122-page report issued by Walther Wesser Voltaire, who is the fifth judge to lead the investigation after previous ones stepped down for various reasons, including fear of being killed. Charles, who was police chief when Moise was killed and now serves as Haitis permanent representative to the Organization of the American States, faces the most serious charges: murder; attempted murder; possession and illegal carrying of weapons; conspiracy against the internal security of the state; and criminal association. Meanwhile, Joseph and Martine Moise, who was injured in the attack, are accused of complicity and criminal association. Charles could not be immediately reached for comment, and Martine Moises attorney did not return a message for comment, Meanwhile, Joseph, the former prime minister, shared a statement with The Associated Press accusing Henry of undermining the investigation and benefitting from the presidents death. Henry ... is weaponizing the Haitian justice system, prosecuting political opponents like me. Its a classic coup detat, Joseph said. They failed to kill me and Martine Moise on July 7th 2021, now they are using the Haitian justice system to advance their Machiavellian agenda. Joseph again called on Henry to resign and noted that while he was still prime minister, he invited the FBI to help local authorities investigate the killing and wrote the U.N. and OAS for help. I wont stop my fight. Justice must be served, he said. In his report, the judge noted that the former secretary general of the National Palace, Lyonel Valbrun, told authorities that he received strong pressure from Martine Moise to put the presidents office at the disposal of Joseph because he needed it to organize a council of ministers. Valbrun also said that two days before her husband was killed, Martine Moise visited the National Palace and spent nearly five hours, from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., removing a bunch of things. He said that two days after Jovenel Moise was slain, Martine Moise called to tell him that, Jovenel didnt do anything for us. You have to open the office. The president told Ti Klod to create a council of ministers; he will hold elections in three months so I can become president, now we will have power. While the document did not identify Ti Klod, the former prime minister, Claude Joseph, is known by that name. The judge also stated in his report that Martine Moise suggested she took refuge under the marital bed to protect herself from the attackers, but he noted that authorities at the scene found that not even a giant ratwhose size measures between 35 and 45 centimeters could fit under the bed. The judge said the former first ladys statements were so tainted with contradictions that they leave something to be desired and discredit her. Others who face charges including murder are Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a Haitian-American pastor who visualized himself as Haitis next president and said he thought Moise was only going to be arrested; Joseph Vincent, a Haitian-American and former informant for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Dimitri Herard, presidential security chief; John Joel Joseph, a former Haitian senator; and Windelle Coq, a Haitian judge whom authorities say is a fugitive. Sanon, Vincent and Joseph were extradited to the U.S., where a total of 11 suspects face federal charges in the slaying of Haitis president. At least three of them already have been sentenced. Meanwhile, more than 40 suspects are languishing in prison in Haiti awaiting trial, although it was not immediately clear how quickly one would be held following Mondays indictments. Among them are 20 former Colombian soldiers. Milena Carmona, wife of Jheyner Alberto Carmona Florez, told The Associated Press that he is innocent. Whats happening is that this crime is a conspiracy of great magnitudes in which powerful people are behind the scenes running everything, and thats why theyre not given freedom, she said of the former soldiers. U.S. prosecutors have described it as a plot hatched in both Haiti and Florida to hire mercenaries to kidnap or kill Moise, who was 53 when he was slain at his private home near the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince. The attack began late July 6 and ended July 7, according to witnesses. Martine Moise and others who were interrogated said they heard heavy gunfire starting around 1 a.m. that lasted between 30 to to 45 minutes before armed men burst into the bedroom of the presidential couple. Moise said she was lying on the ground when she heard the attackers yell, Thats not it! Thats not it! Thats not it! She said the suspects made a video call to identify the exact location of what they were searching as they killed the president. She added that she was face down when the suspects tilted her head and tugged on one of her toes to ensure that she wasnt alive. Once they left, Moise said she dragged herself on the ground and whispered to her husband that she was going to try and go to the hospital. Thats when she noticed that the president was dead and that his left eye had been removed from the socket, the report stated. Moise said a group of about 30 to 50 police officers were supposed to guard the presidential residence, but the judge noted that only a handful of officers were present that night. One officer told the judge that he heard explosions and a voice through a megaphone saying, Do not shoot! Its a DEA operation! US Army! We know how many officers are inside. Exit with two hands lowered. Another officer said the head of security of the first lady found her in critical condition surrounded by her two children. He said he also saw an undetermined number of people coming out of the presidents residence with briefcases and several envelopes in their possession. The report quotes Inspector General Andre Vladimir Paraison saying that the president called him at 1:46 a.m. and told him, Paraison! Man, hurry up! Im in trouble! Come quickly and save my life. He said he encountered heavily armed men and couldnt access the residence immediately. Officers at the scene said they found cars, windows and doors at the presidents private home riddled with bullet holes, along with surveillance cameras cut off and a broken lock on the double-wooden door leading to the presidential bedroom. The judge said some police officers at the residence were disarmed and handcuffed, while others had time to throw themselves down a ravine for safety. In addition, the police officer overseeing presidential security was accused of receiving $80,000 to bribe certain officers to remain inactive during the assassination, according to the report. The judge noted how none of the police providing security to the head of state was in danger. Unfortunately, the head of state was assassinated with ease. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Treatment of Company Awards. The Merger Agreement also provides that, at the Company Merger Effective Time, automatically and without any required action on the part of the holder thereof: (i) each Company Option that is outstanding and unexercised immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time (whether vested or unvested), will be converted into the right to receive a cash payment, less applicable tax withholdings, equal in value to (A) the excess, if any, of the Per Share Price over the per share exercise price of such Company Option, multiplied by (B) the number of shares of Company Common Stock covered by such Company Option immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time (the Option Consideration); (ii) each Company Restricted Stock Unit Award that is outstanding immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time will be cancelled and converted into the contingent right to receive an amount in cash, without interest and less applicable tax withholdings, equal in value to (A) the Per Share Price multiplied by (B) the number of shares of Company Common Stock covered by such Company Restricted Stock Unit Award immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time (the Converted Cash Award), which Converted Cash Award will be subject to the same time-based vesting schedule and generally the same terms and conditions of the corresponding Company Restricted Stock Unit Award from which it was converted; (iii) each unvested Company Restricted Stock Unit Award held by a non-employee director of the Company that is outstanding immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time will be forfeited and cancelled for no consideration, except that to the extent that any outstanding Company Restricted Stock Unit Award granted on May 4, 2023 to a non-employee director of the Company (including the award granted to Carey Chen in his capacity as a non-employee director) remains unvested immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time, such award will vest in full on the Company Merger Effective Time, with the holder of such Company Restricted Stock Unit Award becoming entitled to receive an amount in cash, less applicable tax withholdings, equal in value to (A) the Per Share Price by (B) the number of shares of Company Common Stock covered by such award immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time; (iv) each Company Performance Stock Unit Award that is outstanding immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time and that has satisfied the applicable performance vesting criteria associated with such Company Performance Stock Unit Award (or applicable portion thereof) as of immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time will be cancelled and converted into the contingent right to receive a Converted Cash Award with respect to an amount in cash, without interest and less applicable Tax withholdings, equal in value to (A) the Per Share Price by (B) the number of shares of Company Common Stock covered by such Company Performance Stock Unit Award with respect to which the applicable performance vesting criteria has been satisfied immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time, which Converted Cash Award will be subject to the same time-based vesting schedule and generally the same terms and conditions of the corresponding Company Performance Stock Unit Award from which it was converted; and (v) each Company Performance Stock Unit Award (or applicable portion thereof) that is outstanding immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time and that has not satisfied the applicable performance-vesting criteria associated with such Company Performance Stock Unit Award (or applicable portion thereof) as of immediately prior to the Company Merger Effective Time will be forfeited and cancelled for no consideration. The Option Consideration will be paid to the applicable holder no later than the second regularly scheduled payroll date following the Closing Date. In addition, the Company ESPP will not extend or commence new offering periods and will terminate prior to the Company Merger Effective Time, with accumulated participant contributions to be returned to the participants without interest. Treatment of Warrants. At the Company Merger Effective Time, each outstanding Company Warrant will, in accordance with its terms, automatically and without any required action on the part of the holder thereof or any other Person, cease to represent a Company Warrant exercisable for Class A Common Stock and shall become a Company Warrant exercisable for the Per Share Price. If a Registered Holder (as defined in the Warrant Agreement) properly exercises a Company Warrant within thirty (30) days following the public disclosure of the consummation of the Company Merger pursuant to a Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC, the Warrant Price (as defined in the Warrant Agreement) with respect to such exercise will be reduced by an amount (in dollars) equal to the difference of (i) the Warrant Price in effect prior to such reduction minus (ii) (A) the Per Share Price (but in no event less than zero) minus (B) the Black-Scholes Warrant Value (as defined in the Warrant Agreement). Board and Special Committee Recommendation. A special committee (the Special Committee) of the board of directors (the Board) of the Company consisting only of independent and disinterested directors of the Company has unanimously (i) determined that the Merger Agreement and the Merger, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein, are fair to, advisable, and in the best interests of the Company and the Companys stockholders, including the Unaffiliated Stockholders, (ii) approved and declared advisable the Merger Agreement and the Transactions, and UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 SCHEDULE 13G Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 VICTORY PORTFOLIOS II (Name of Issuer) EXCHANGE TRADED PRODUCT (Title of Class of Securities) 92647N865 (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: [X] Rule 13d-1(b) [ ] 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 Instructions). Gen. Randy George, the Army chief of staff, center left, on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, listens to Brian Dosa, director of Public Works at Fort Cavazos, discuss motor pool facilities at the Texas post. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) FORT CAVAZOS, Texas The Armys recruiting numbers are stronger than they were at this time last year, the Armys top general said Tuesday while touring a motor pool and visiting with soldiers at the base. Last year we improved by 10,000. Right now, were above that glide path, said Gen. Randy George, the Army chief of staff. Georges tour followed Army Secretary Christine Wormuths visit about three weeks ago at Fort Cavazos, where both service leaders saw units working within the ripple effects of the Armys failure to recruit enough soldiers during the past two years. In fiscal 2023, which ended Sept. 30, the Army enlisted about 55,000 recruits. While short about 10,000 of its goal, it was about 10,000 more than the previous fiscal year, according to information previously released by the service. At the motor pool at Fort Cavazos, George met Lt. Col. Rob Parsons, commander of the 1st Battalion of the 5th Cavalry Regiment, which is part of the 1st Cavalry Division. Parsons soldiers work at the facility daily on Abrams tanks and the Armys newest Bradley Fighting Vehicles, the M2A4 variant, but with about 50% of the battalions authorized mechanics a result of the recruiting challenges. Within the next two weeks, George said the Army will release a new structure document that will acknowledge the smaller size of the force. The service closed out fiscal 2023 with 453,468 active-duty soldiers. Lt. Gen. Sean Bernabe, commander of III Corps and Fort Cavazos, right, walks through a motor pool with Gen. Randy George, Army chief of staff, left, during a visit to the Texas post on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) That annual document tells commanders how many of each job position are authorized within a unit. This years memorandum will restructure the force using an expected Army of 445,000 troops, as authorized by Congress in the annual defense budget. During her visit Jan. 31, Wormuth said she expects the Army to be dealing with soldier shortages in units for the next couple of years. One route to dealing with this is for leaders to decide which units will be staffed at higher numbers than others, she said. The second is to question combatant commanders about how many troops are essential to overseas missions and what can they do without. If its a must do, then the Army is going to answer the call, Wormuth said. But that puts pressure on us. Moving soldiers between brigade combat teams to meet troop levels was a bridge that Wormuth said she did not want to cross and noted Fort Cavazos commander Lt. Gen. Sean Bernabe agreed. After talking with him, the view is that that is disruptive in all sorts of ways, she said. Home to about 95,000 soldiers and family members, Fort Cavazos is one of the Armys busiest posts when it comes to training and overseas deployments. Roughly 5,500 troopers from the 1st Cavalry Division will deploy to Europe in the coming weeks as another of its brigades packs up for a rotation at the National Training Center in California. All soldiers expect to be busy but its important they dont feel overworked, Wormuth said. One thing the Army is doing very successfully right now is retention. We have historically high retention levels and part of that is because were trying to not yank our soldiers around too much, she said. The fact that we are finding other ways to deal with the manning issues, rather than kind of cross-levering brigades is significant. In the meantime, she and George have laid out plans to improve the Armys recruiting force, including the addition of warrant officers to crunch data analytics on talent management and marketing for Army Recruiting Command. Chief Warrant Officer 5 Yolondria Dixon-Carter, Georges senior warrant officer adviser, said Tuesday that the new recruiting warrant officers will turn data into viable information for leaders. [Theyre] taking all of that data from internally and externally and determining what are our strengths and our weaknesses based on talent benchmark and assessment and interviews, she said. Roughly 200 warrant officers have applied for a spot in the first cohort, George said. About 25% are expected to make the cut. Weve had great interest in people for recruiting, and weve been very selective, he said. We just want to make sure that we select the right people. As Parsons shared his section of the Army with George, he said working with fewer mechanics than authorized in the motor pool is a benefit for him because of another ongoing Army issue the need to modernize facilities at a faster pace. To renovate and modernize the buildings within the Army footprint to provide users with the capability to fulfill their mission would cost an additional $34 billion, according to a 2023 presentation from the Congressional Budget Office. The facility at the battalions motor pool was built in the 1960s for troops to maintain Jeeps and the six-wheeled Gama Goats used in the Vietnam War, said Brian Dosa, director of Fort Cavazos Directorate of Public Works. A 10-ton overhead crane used for maintenance on heavy track vehicles in a motor pool at Fort Cavazos, Texas, on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) The bays no longer accommodate the heavier vehicles of todays Army because they lack overhead cranes capable of lifting an engine pack out of a Bradley. Instead of utilizing the eight bays of the building, soldiers work outside on the massive track vehicles in two shelters with 10-ton cranes built into them. It can cause a logjam of maintenance and forces the battalion to prioritize repairs, Parsons said. If he had all his authorized mechanics, he worries there wouldnt be space for everyone to work simultaneously. Twenty-five of Fort Cavazos 69 motor pools were built decades ago and lack the overhead lift, Dosa said. The Army outgrew the facilities about the time the Abrams tank was introduced in the 1980s and his team built the outdoor shelters to help units make do until the Armys budget can accommodate modernization for so many facilities, he said. Wormuth acknowledged during her tour that the bases motor pools need work. If Ive got one extra dollar to spend, do I put it towards more shelters at the motor pool? Or do I put it towards fixing another barracks? Or do I put it towards spending more money on advertising for recruiting? she asked. Wormuth and George said the Army is looking to cut bureaucracy in funding decisions to give post commanders the ability to put funds toward their greatest needs more quickly. Every installation is a little bit different, and you cant treat every installation exactly the same, George said. Weve got to give them the flexibility they need. The Buffalo Soldier Gate at Fort Bliss, Texas. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) AUSTIN, Texas A former Fort Bliss soldier was extradited to Mexico on Tuesday to face a murder charge in the death of his girlfriend, the Justice Department said. Saul Luna Villa, 24, was a specialist assigned to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, when he was accused of traveling to Mexico on April 7, 2023, and killing a 19-year-old mother whom he was dating, according to court records. The U.S. Marshals Service took custody of Luna Villa in September, and he did not fight extradition in court. He was surrendered to Mexican authorities Tuesday morning, said Nicole Navas Oxman, spokeswoman for the Justice Department. The 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss confirmed Luna Villa was discharged from the Army this month while in federal custody. Spc. Saul Luna Villa is charged with murder in Mexico for the April 7, 2023, death of his girlfriend, according to federal court records. (U.S. Army) Mexican authorities accused Luna Villa of traveling to Juarez, the town that borders El Paso, in a truck similar to one seen in surveillance footage near where the womans body was found. He also matched the description of the man seen in the video. Court documents do not name the woman, but her mother identified her in local news reports as Aylin Valenzuela. Valenzuela told her mother earlier that day she was meeting Luna Villa, according to court documents. She also sent a photo of herself to her mothers phone in the minutes before she died that included Luna Villas arm, which her mother identified by his tattoos. Mexican authorities issued the arrest warrant for Luna Villa on April 14, 2023. The former soldier is from Burlington, Wis., and was stationed at Fort Bliss for more than two years, according to his official service record. A contractor opens a fire hydrant to collect samples as part of the Navy's drinking water monitoring program at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Jan. 31, 2024. (Krystal Diaz/U.S. Navy) Navy Installations Command has expanded its role in overseeing and evaluating the services drinking water systems at all bases in the United States and its territories, the service said in a news release Tuesday. Historically, various Navy commands managed their specific water systems, the release states. In order to ensure consistent management, policy, and oversight across the Navy, these functions and responsibilities were placed under [Navy Installations Command]. The Navy Installations commander, Vice Adm. Scott Gray, approved the new policy, which was implemented Feb. 2. He is also the Navys executive agent for management of Drinking Water Ashore, according to the release. The safety and monitoring of Navy water has drawn public scrutiny after a jet fuel leak in Hawaii in late 2021 contaminated the system that provided tap water to roughly 93,000 residents of military housing communities on and near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Hundreds of residents and former residents affected by the contamination have sued the Navy in federal court, alleging the service did not adequately inform them about the tainted water. It will take years to restore the soil and aquifer around the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility contaminated by that leak and many more in previous decades. The Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit advocacy group that promotes the use of fewer chemicals in agriculture, said in a 2020 report that tap water or groundwater at 328 U.S. military installations showed the presence of PFAS, a forever chemical used in a plethora of products since the 1940s. Navy installations in Washington, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Florida were cited in that report. Pearl Harbor lessons The Navys news release Tuesday did not refer to water quality at any particular installation as being the genesis for the new policy. The policy was implemented to standardize oversight, assessment, operation and maintenance at all Navy facilities, Coleen San Nicolas-Perez, a spokeswoman for Navy Installations Command, told Stars and Stripes by email Tuesday. There are lessons learned incorporated as a result of the [Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam] drinking water concerns, but it also includes assessments and recommendations from systems across the Navy, she said. We take program assessments seriously and by evaluating our programs and procedures we can then make necessary improvements to include implementation of a new or updated policy, she said. The new policy sets up a framework for operating and maintaining the drinking water systems. Most prominently, it establishes drinking water committees at the installation, region and headquarters levels to ensure water quality management and proper handling of any deficiencies or problems, the news release states. We must consistently validate that those who rely on the Navy water systems, whether they are on our bases or live in nearby communities, have access to safe drinking water, Gray said in the release. This policy identifies the responsibilities and roles of Navy commands and positions of authority while holding them accountable to deliver quality drinking water that meet standards, he said. Annual self-assessments The committees will include public works, environmental, medical and communications personnel, according to the release. They are tasked with frequent communication with Navy and non-Navy stakeholders and consumers, providing water quality updates as needed, issuing public notifications of drinking water compliance concerns as required, and ensuring personnel are trained to operate and maintain the drinking water systems, the news release states. Committees will be chaired by the region commanders and installation commanding officers. The commanders are responsible for the quality assurance and compliance of the Navy drinking water systems, Brock Durig, environmental director for Navy Installations Command, said in the release. They take a hands-on approach when it comes to continual program and water system oversight to address any water quality concerns and take the appropriate actions to ensure Navy drinking water systems are meeting federal and state standards, he said. Under the new policy, the command is required to oversee annual self-assessments by all installations of their compliance with federal, state and local drinking water regulations, according to the policy. A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bomber flies alongside a Philippine FA-50 fighter over the South China Sea, Feb. 19, 2024. (Philippine air force) An Air Force B-52H Stratofortress and three Philippine FA-50 fighters flew a joint patrol over the South China Sea this week, a move Chinese state media labeled a political show. The Philippine air force posted photos and video of Mondays patrol on social media the next day. It covered an area 90 nautical miles west of Candon, Ilocos Sur province, and 50 nautical miles northwest of Lubang, Mindoro province, the service wrote on Facebook. This cooperative activity aims to bolster cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and their US counterparts, the post said. With this activity, the [Philippine air force] underscores its commitment and readiness to support the AFPs efforts in safeguarding the national territory and sovereign rights, and upholding regional peace and security. The B-52, deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on a Bomber Task Force mission, did not land in the country, the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported Wednesday. Air Force officials on Guam referred questions about the patrol to Pacific Air Forces, which did not immediately respond to an email Wednesday. The FA-50 is a compact, versatile supersonic jet manufactured by South Korean firm KAI and developed with Lockheed Martin. South Korea has sold it overseas to Indonesia, Thailand, Poland, Senegal and Malaysia, according to published reports. The exercise followed naval drills between the U.S. and Philippines earlier this month and took place during a period of increased tension between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea. In recent months, Chinese coast guard and maritime militia have tried unsuccessfully to block Philippine vessels resupplying the BRP Sierra Madre. The grounded World War II-era vessel serves as a territorial outpost at Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed reef in the South China Sea. The B-52 patrol was closely monitored by Chinese naval and air forces, Chinas state-run Global Times newspaper reported Wednesday, quoting the militarys Southern Theater Command. The newspaper also quoted Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, as saying the patrol was more of a political show and of little (military) significance. However, a retired Air Force lieutenant general in an email Wednesday to Stars and Stripes, described the joint patrol as significant. I do not recall it happening before, said Dan Leaf, a former deputy commander of U.S. Pacific Command, now the Indo-Pacific Command. It is important to remember that the nuclear capabilities of the B-52 are not the key; it has a very impressive sensor suite and has long been used in maritime surveillance training and operations. Airmen practiced launching sea mines from a B-52 off the coast of Hawaii last year, said Grant Newsham, a retired Marine colonel and senior researcher with the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies in Tokyo. The bombers might also fire anti-ship missiles, he wrote in an email Wednesday. They can carry a lot more than a fighter aircraft so you have the possibility of launching salvos that makes it harder to defend against, he said. Suppose you use two or three B52s at once and approaching from different directions. That makes everything harder for the defender. Bombers need protection from a sophisticated enemy such as China, but the Philippine fighters are not the right aircraft to provide it, he said. This joint patrol is best regarded as a warning that taking on the Philippines means you might also get the full might of the U.S. military, Newsham said. All in all, a political message to both China and the U.S. Philippine allies. Roberto Posada, 40, misses Marcelo his 12-year-old Boston terrier every day. He has barely seen his dog since he returned to Tulua, after 15 months in exile. Upon coming back, he decided that it was best for Marcelo to continue under the care of the veterinarian whos been taking care of the dog during his owners absence. Two weeks ago, Roberto visited his best friend. Hes still affected by the farewell. He chased me to the door. He wanted to go with me. Sometimes, I think its better not to see him, because it hurts me a lot to say goodbye, he sighs, looking behind his shoulder from the passenger seat. The scenario reveals why he cannot stay with Marcelo. An armored SUV flanked by three escorts from the National Protection Unit (UNP) takes him to downtown Tulua, a Colombian city of 230,000 inhabitants. Roberto is one of the most-visible victims of the wave of violence thats taking place in the Valle del Cauca, a region in western Colombia. On Saturday, February 10, a traffic cop was murdered. Another was injured, while six taxis were set on fire. This rash of crimes was carried out by members of La Inmaculada, a local gang that emerged about a decade ago from a neighborhood in the city of the same name. The attacks were apparently retaliation for the capture of Mauricio Marin alias Nacho one of the gangs leaders, who was taken into custody a few days earlier. Subsequent investigations revealed that the order to spread terror came from prison. Andres Felipe Marin alias Pipe, Nachos brother sent it out. Authorities arrested four people, including two youths, ages 14 and 17. One of them said that they were promised payments of 400,000 pesos ($100) for each homicide and 140,000 pesos ($35 dollars) per burned car. Such incidents are by no means new or isolated. A week earlier on Saturday, February 3 the local police deactivated a car that was loaded with explosives, in the vicinity of the mayors office. The explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) truck is still parked in the main square of Tulua. Security fences have been installed on the surrounding streets, interspersed on the right and left, forcing vehicles to move slowly, in a zigzag pattern. They did all this to prevent a hitman from being [able to get through] and escape easily, Robert notes. The SUV transporting him stops a few feet ahead. He gets out, enters the City Hall, goes through a metal detector and heads up to his office. A police officer in a bulletproof vest guards the entrance. Inside, a dozen officials carry out their work, refreshed by the air conditioning. None of them say it out loud, but theyre afraid to be at work. Theres a lot of fear when your boss is living under death threats. Some municipal workers unions have expressed this concern to Robert: he has the memos waiting for him on his desk. A Colombian soldier guards a street in Tulua. Andres Torres Galeano With characteristic frankness, Robert says that he accepted his position as secretary of institutional development precisely so that he wouldnt be killed. Hes been receiving pamphlets, anonymous messages and funeral wreaths for more than three years now. When he was a journalist, the multiple investigations and articles that he published in different media outlets about La Inmaculadas links with people linked to the last municipal administration which governed from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023 made him a declared enemy of the gang. In September 2021, while walking through La Esperanza, he was attacked by several men, in what he describes as an attempt at intimidation. The only journalist who mentioned that attack was Marcos Montalvo. He said that it was worrying that something like that could happen with nobody speaking out, he recalls. A seasoned 68-year-old journalist, Marcos was his friend and like him was threatened for denouncing acts of corruption in the municipal transportation department, where La Inmaculada allegedly had influence. The sound of computer keyboards clacking can be heard outside Roberts office. He remains silent. As best he can, he stammers out a few apologies, before suddenly bursting into tears. After a few minutes, he continues speaking. Marcos was murdered five days after the attack on Robert, just two streets away. A hitman approached him while he was talking with some friends in a store: he shot him four times in the chest. No one else was hurt or robbed. The perpetrator pulled the trigger, got on a motorcycle and escaped. The message was clear. Robert, however, decided to continue publishing. It was only a matter of time before something happened to him. Faced with imminent danger, the Freedom of the Press Foundation (FPF) and Reporters Without Borders helped him leave the country in July 2022. He traveled through Mexico City, Madrid and La Paz. The threats didnt stop during his exile. They sent me [messages] to tell me that they knew I had left Colombia and that I had left my family here; they knew their routines and where they lived. The organizations couldnt continue financing his stay abroad: he spent all his savings and went into debt. Those who have the most [riding on me not being killed] are my friends. I have to pay back what they lent me, he adds, laughing, even though he still has tears in his eyes. Robert Posada, a former journalist and Tuluas current secretary of development, pictured on February 14, 2024. Andres Torres Galeano In October 2023, with the little money he had left, he bought a return ticket to Colombia. At the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, a member of the UNP was waiting for him. The official warned him that he shouldnt return to Tulua. He assures EL PAIS how, in that moment, the spirituality that he didnt develop as a young came to the surface. I asked God to do his will, he shrugs, showing a picture of Saint Michael the Archangel that he carries in his wallet. At the time, Gustavo Velez a former mayor of Tulua was seeking a second term, with the endorsement of the Conservative Party. Robert attributes the offer that the politician made him to be a sign of divine intervention. The most-threatened mayor in Colombia To identify the mayors office, you only have to follow the trail of police officers and bodyguards. As one approaches the building, their number grows. Outside is Luz Elena Londono, waiting for her husband. In an interview with a Cali-based newspaper, she said that her husband is the most-threatened mayor in Colombia. Suddenly, an official approaches her to say goodbye. He informs her that the school route is about to start. When EL PAIS asks her about this strange phrase, she laughs and explains: They call it that because [my husband] leaves with police, escorted to his home, as if it were the route that a school bus takes. [The officers] have to take turns, because there arent enough vans to take them all in one trip. Mayor Gustavo Velez, 54, opens a wooden door and appears, smiling. He wears jeans and a light blue shirt. Its lunchtime. In the underground parking lot of the mayors office, a caravan of motorcycles and armored vehicles is waiting to take him to eat sancocho, a traditional soup from the region. Hes accompanied by his wife and Robert, whom he has hosted since he returned to Tulua. As soon as I arrived, they canceled my reservation at the hotel, because I supposedly posed a danger to the staff. The mayor then told me to stay at his house and advise him on his campaign communications. He won and appointed me secretary to protect me from any attack, Robert comments gratefully. Mayor Velezs current residence is actually his country home. He had no alternative to moving there after receiving dozens of threats when he was a candidate. Even though 25 men are in charge of his security, the mayor jokes about the situation. Why am I going to feel sorry for myself? Im blessed. Ive been with my wife for 39 years and she still puts up with me after so long, he laughs. However, despite his good humor, his life has been significantly affected. A young man is inspected by a member of the Colombian Armed Forces. Andres Torres Galeano Upon arriving at the farm, one of the mayors grandsons comes running for a hug. The couples other three grandchildren as well as their four children moved to other municipalities for fear of being the target of attacks. In the months before the vote which was held in October their first-born sons office was shot at and the mayors parents house was struck by a grenade. Fortunately, in both cases, only material damage was reported. Those responsible, Velez points out, belong to La Inmaculada, which distributed pamphlets ordering journalists in the area to refrain from covering his political campaign, if they didnt want to become a target. Oscar the son whos visiting is convinced that the reason for the criminal groups animosity towards his father dates back to his first term as mayor, between 2016 and 2019, when Velez fought them. La Inmaculada was already established as the main criminal group in Tulua. It had taken its first steps like almost all similar organizations by dominating the drug-trafficking market, before beginning to extort merchants. [The gangsters] charge them to let them sell products. Theyve even killed food distributors for not having permission from them, Oscar sighs. The Attorney Generals Office has indications that, in past municipal administrations, the gang had control over the hiring of some mayors secretaries, who oversee various departments. Seeing how several of his campaign posters were removed and burned, Velez chose to reach voters in a different way. He turned his efforts to social media and hired former military man and paraglider Jorge Gonzalez to fly over the municipality with a banner advertising his candidacy. The outcome was bittersweet. He swept the polls with 41,340 votes well above the 22,082 obtained by Ever Villegas, his rival but it cost the life of Gonzalez, who was murdered in October, after making an emergency landing in a sector controlled by La Inmaculada. He managed to call us, he told us where he was, but when we went to pick him up, they had already shot him, Luz Elena Londono laments. The mayor of Tulua, Gustavo Velez, is one of the mayors who has received the most death threats in Colombia. Andres Torres Galeano He wasnt the only casualty of the municipal campaign. On December 31 one day before Velezs inauguration hitmen attacked Eliecid Avila, the only Conservative councilor who had been elected in the regional elections. He died in hospital two days later. Im not going to lie to you: its been hard. We were also aware about what it was going to be like. And were just getting started, theyre not going to break us. Right, Robert? Velez nods to his friend, secretary and guest, who raises his head from his sancocho in acknowledgement. The fear On Wednesday, February 14, at around midnight, more than 30 police officers enter the neighborhood of La Inmaculada. The trucks and vans that transport them only reach the main roads. At a certain point, the uniformed men hop down, carrying flashlights and rifles. Wearing helmets, they explore the narrow, unpaved alleys on foot. Some blocks remain desolate, while in others, there are minors hanging out in a park, or neighbors chatting around a table, playing chess. The movements of the different units including officers who specialize in anti-narcotics and anti-terrorism operations were previously laid out via images taken by drones. In command of the operation is 40-year-old Colonel Nicolas Suarez, the top person in charge of security in Tulua since October 2023. Under his command, he has nearly 500 men and women from different specialties. They were the ones who managed to capture those responsible for the torching of taxis on Saturday, February 10. We set up checkpoints at the entrances and exits of the municipality. Thats where we got them, he says. In his opinion in addition to the arrests its key to undermine the economic support that the criminal gang relies on. We have to hit their finances, identify whos willing to launder their money, he adds. Suarez like many of his subordinates has received messages from his relatives expressing concern that something will happen to him. Members of Colombias special forces guard the city after the events of February 10, 2024. Andres Torres Galeano In the streets, people prefer to remain silent. A street vendor located at the exit of the San Bartolome parish complains about the sales, which are unusually bad for an Ash Wednesday. He blames the bandits and the mayor, for how [dangerous] they made the town. Minutes later, he refuses to continue speaking. He says two men warned him not to be [a big mouth] with journalists. The scene is repeated with another group of elderly men who are feeding the pigeons. Whoever owes nothing, fears nothing, one man says. I wont comment further, because, you know, this is a delicate situation. The violence in Tulua a city more populated than medium-sized regional capitals in Colombia, such as Riohacha or Tunja has gained relevance on the national agenda. Minister of Defense Ivan Velasquez visited the town this past Friday. He announced that the government will support the mayor in his fight against crime. Mayor Velez among other things wants his children to be able to return and for his parents to live without fear. No one wants to sit with my mother when she goes to mass. The other ladies change pews, due to the anxiety of being seen with her something could happen to them. She complains to me, he concludes, with a voice full of hurt. Police patrol the streets of Tulua. Andres Torres Galeano Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Lithuanian soldiers patrol a road near the Lithuania-Belarus border in November 2021. (Mindaugas Kulbis/AP) VILNIUS, Lithuania Lithuania decided Wednesday to seal off another two of its six checkpoints with Belarus as of next month, amid growing tensions with its eastern neighbor, an ally of Russia. This brings the total of closed border crossings into the Baltic country to four. The Lavoriskes and Raigardas checkpoints will stop functioning on March 1, as all the traffic will be diverted to the remaining two at the villages of Medininkai and Salcininkai. Vilnius also decided to suspend the movement of pedestrians and cyclists through the last remaining checkpoints. Tensions on NATOs and the European Unions borders spiked after Belarus took in thousands of Russias military mercenaries. It has also been accused of pushing Middle Eastern and African migrants into Europe, despite various forms of barriers having been put up. Wednesdays decision was fueled by the risks associated with the increased activities of the Belarusian intelligence and security services against Lithuania and our citizens, Lithuanias Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite told reporters. Large resources are needed to control flows, prevent smuggling, ensure international sanctions, and reduce traffic safety risks, she added. The number of permits issued to Belarusian and Lithuanian carriers operating regular international bus passenger services will also be gradually reduced, according to an interior ministry statement. Some 3.9 million people crossed the Lithuanian-Belarusian border via road border checkpoints last year, 66% of whom were Belarusian citizens. In August 2023, Lithuania closed two border crossings for similar reasons. Maintenance workers wave flags and slow traffic outside Naval Support Activity Naples' Support Site location Feb. 21, 2024, to protest the base's landlord. They say the company, Mirabella, does not pay them on time. Mirabella officials say they've paid the employees in accordance with the terms of their contract. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes) NAPLES, Italy Workers responsible for maintaining sailor housing and other facilities at Naval Support Activity Naples protested Wednesday, saying they are getting their paychecks late from the Italian company that functions as the bases landlord. About a dozen of the employees demonstrating outside the bases Support Site main gate said Mirabella habitually varies the date it gives them their wages. The uncertainty of not knowing when they will receive their money causes hardship when it comes to paying bills and feeding their families, said Antonio Turino, a maintenance worker at the base. He added that the workers were not here against the Americans but simply wanted to draw attention to their plight. A Mirabella spokesman disputed the workers account, saying that wages consistently have been paid to employees according to their contract for at least the last five years. The disagreement arises from a notification Mirabella recently gave to the union representing the workers that they would be paid on Feb. 22, said Armando Marino, managing director for Mirabella. That notification came within the time prescribed by the contract, which allows the company to pay employees as many as two days before or after the stipulated payday on the 20th of each month. For example, workers were paid last month on Jan. 18, Marino said. We are not upset with the workers, but we do not understand the real reason they are doing this, he said. Mirabella owns and manages the Support Site, which includes the bases housing, schools, hospital, commissary, and other facilities and services. The company employs about 125 workers on the site represented by three unions. The smallest of those, Confederazione Unitaria di Base, or CUB, represents 16 workers involved in Wednesdays protest, according to Mirabella. CUB representatives vowed to continue the rally on Thursday. Base officials opened a back gate Wednesday to ease any traffic congestion caused by the protest and will continue to monitor for safety, said Lt. j.g. Cody Milam, a spokesman for NSA Naples. NSA Naples is the home of U.S. 6th Fleet and Naval Region Europe, Africa, Central as well as other Navy commands located at the bases Capodichino site, adjacent to Naples International Airport. Its about 14 miles south of the Support Site and managed by the Navy. Drivers load Bradley Fighting Vehicles onto a ship in North Charleston, S.C., Jan. 25, 2023. Weapons systems sent to Ukraine, such as the Bradleys, Patriot missiles and Abrams tanks, could eventually be rendered useless because the Pentagon didn't provide a maintenance plan for Ukrainian troops, according to a Defense Department Inspector General report. (Oz Suguitan/U.S. Transportation Command) STUTTGART, Germany Big-ticket weapons systems sent to Ukraine could be rendered useless on the battlefield because the Pentagon lacks a plan for Ukrainian troops to maintain them, according to a Defense Department watchdog agency report, which also warned that sustaining Kyivs armored vehicles could harm the U.S. Armys own combat readiness. The lack of foresight in this matter is concerning, and should be rectified promptly, Inspector General Robert Storch said in a statement Tuesday, adding that the department is developing a plan now. But the oversight on keeping functional equipment such as Patriot interceptors, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Strykers and Abrams tanks puts at risk Ukraines ability to effectively fight Russia and also complicates the U.S. militarys own combat preparedness, the IG said. One senior Army official told the IG that continued reliance on existing U.S. Army stocks may require a choice between continued support for Ukraine and meeting the minimum readiness requirements for U.S. Army units, the IG report said. Not having maintenance requirements for the weapons systems it provides to Ukraine prevents DOD from predicting costs or assessing the impacts for U.S. military units that also operate these systems, Storch said. As a result, the Pentagon may need to commit more resources at significant cost to U.S. taxpayers or risk the ability to perform other U.S. missions, the report said. The IG issued joint reports Tuesday, one detailing problems associated with hundreds of armored vehicles issued to Ukraine and another examining issues related to Patriot air defense systems provided. The reports concluded that without an effective sustainment strategy, Ukraines military wont develop the knowledge base to maintain the equipment. That means it wont be able to use the hardware once U.S. sustainment support ends, the IG said. The finding comes amid uncertainty about the durability of American political support for defending Ukraine from Russia, given the ongoing political disagreements in Washington about the merits of continuing to send billions of dollars in arms to Kyiv. The funding logjam in Washington has halted delivery of new U.S. weaponry to Ukraine, which is now on the defensive as a larger Russian force gains new ground on the battlefield. Under such circumstances, ensuring the lasting capability of systems already delivered is likely to be a major priority for Ukraine. As of January, DOD had still not developed or implemented sustainment plans for the Patriot systems and the hundreds of armored vehicles provided to Ukraine, according to the IG. The IG issued multiple recommendations for each of the weapons systems, including that an action plan be developed in the coming weeks to deal with the issue. The Defense Department generally concurred with the findings. Maksim Kuzminov, right, with representatives of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Andrii Yusov, at left, and Artem Shevchenko, left and right respectively, during a news conference at the Ukraine Media Center. (Defence Intelligence of Ukraine) The pastel-hued village where Russian pilot Maksim Kuzminov settled on the coast of Spain must have seemed a world away from the war he thought he had escaped last year when he defected to Ukraine. But the discovery of his bullet-riddled body last week appeared to deliver a menacing new signal from Moscow that those who cross the Kremlin no matter how far they flee from the wars front lines should never consider themselves safe. Kuzminov was killed in a barrage of gunfire and then run over with his own vehicle by assailants who then used the car to escape, according to Spanish authorities, Ukraine security officials and Spanish media reports. The attack lacked the elaborate touches often associated with Russian assassination plots. He was not poisoned with a weapons-grade toxin or found in the wreckage of an aircraft that plunged from the sky. Yet the message behind Kuzminovs death is the same as it has been through much of Russian President Vladimir Putins two-decade tenure, according to Western security officials and experts. It is a reminder for everyone who is in exile and actively in opposition to the regime they are all on somebodys list, said Eugene Rumer, a former senior U.S. intelligence official who directs the Russia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Versions of that message have been relayed repeatedly in recent months. The death of former Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeniy Prigozhin whose plane exploded on its way to St. Petersburg weeks after he led an aborted military insurrection showed that old, close ties with Putin are no protection. The death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a remote Arctic penal colony last week signaled that even those serving multiyear sentences often in solitary confinement and stripped of all meaningful ability to threaten the state may not survive. Kuzminov fell into a category that Putin, a former KGB officer, regards with particular scorn: traitors from within the military and security services. His presidency has been marked by elaborate operations that seemed aimed at inflicting the most painful punishment possible on those accused of turning against Russia for the West. Those targeted include Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian Federal Security Service, or FSB, officer who died after being poisoned with polonium in London in 2006, according to British investigators; and Sergei Skripal, a former Russian military officer who survived an attack that left him and his daughter gravely ill from exposure to a nerve agent, Novichok, that is known to be produced only by a Russian lab. Navalny narrowly survived an attempt on his own life by Russian security officials using the same substance in 2020. After recuperating in Germany, he returned to Russia in 2021 and was arrested upon his arrival. Russias ability to carry out lethal operations beyond its borders was believed to have been substantially eroded by waves of expulsions of Russian spies from the countrys embassies. Europe alone has expelled more than 400 suspected Russian intelligence officers since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine two years ago. Kuzminovs killing showed that Russia retains some capabilities in Europe despite the decimation of its spy networks, and has found ways to adapt, officials said. They have made mistakes but learned lessons, said a senior Ukrainian intelligence official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. In contrast to the intricate plots against Skripal and Navalny carried out by officers working directly for Russias intelligence services, the attack on Kuzminov in Spain more closely resembled a mob hit. The nature of the killing has prompted speculation that Russia has turned to criminal networks to compensate for its curtailed operational presence across Europe. If so, Kuzminovs decision to leave Ukraine for Spains Mediterranean coast may have been a particularly risky, if not reckless, move. The Alicante region has for decades been associated with Russian organized-crime syndicates, according to officials and government reports. It also has a prominent Russian expatriate population home to as many as 16,000 of the roughly 80,000 Russians who resided in Spain as of 2022, according to government figures. Spanish authorities have mounted intermittent operations to root out the Russian syndicates, including one that occupied investigators for seven years before culminating in sweeping arrests and property seizures three years ago. The case, dubbed Operation Testudo, exposed a large-scale criminal network linked to Russia that involved murder, drug trafficking, arms trafficking, trafficking of human beings and extortion, according to a news statement issued by Europol. Given the presence of such criminal networks, Russia could recruit criminals and not [rely on] professional intelligence agents to carry out the killing of Kuzminov, the Ukrainian official said. It is not clear when Kuzminov arrived in Villajoyosa, a village along a section of Mediterranean shoreline known for its concentration of transplants from Russia. He appears to have been living in Spain under a false identity and Ukrainian passport, presumably provided by Ukraines military intelligence service, the GUR, which touted his defection last year aboard an Mi-8 transport helicopter packed with valuable Russian jet components as a propaganda coup. Kuzminov appeared in a Kyiv-sponsored documentary describing his decision to defect after negotiating a deal in which Ukraine helped secure the relocation of members of his family from Russia and agreed to pay him $500,000. It is not clear whether Kuzminovs family members moved with him to Spain. Ukraine security officials said there were indications that Kuzminov may have compromised his own security by making contact with a former girlfriend in Russia, an assertion that could not be confirmed. A former U.S. intelligence official said the killing of Kuzminov raises questions of whether Western intel services have done enough to encourage Russian defections and provide for the security of defectors, something that should be a top priority for a variety of obvious reasons. The Western response so far to the death of Navalny seems to underscore a lack of retaliatory options against Russia, which has defied expectations in its ability to withstand Western weapons shipments to Ukraine, economic sanctions and diplomatic expulsions over the past two years. Britain announced Wednesday that it would punish Russia for Navalnys death by imposing economic sanctions on the heads of the Arctic penal colony where Alexei Navalny was killed. President Biden has said a package of U.S. sanctions is imminent. Serhiy Morgunov in Kyiv, Isabella Carril in Madrid, and The Washington Posts Souad Mekhennet and Shane Harris in Washington contributed to this report. U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron has expressed deep concern about the prospect of an Israeli military offensive in Rafah. (Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg) The U.K. government is considering restricting some arms exports to Israel if it launches an offensive on the Palestinian city of Rafah or obstructs aid trucks from entering Gaza, people familiar with the matter said. Further escalation of Israels military action in Gaza without more effort to protect civilians could put it in breach of international humanitarian law, depending on how it conducts the operation, U.K. officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity about internal assessments. Legal advice to ministers that governs the granting of export licenses could change in such a scenario, potentially impacting the sale of some weapons and technologies to the country, the people said. The Foreign Office declined to comment. While Britain isnt a major supplier of arms to Israel, the potential action which the U.K. has discussed with allies suggests western nations are ratcheting up the pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus administration to take greater care in its crackdown on Hamas. Months of Israeli military action in the Gaza Strip have left 29,000 Palestinians dead, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. The Israeli action was triggered by Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 more were abducted. The U.K., U.S. and European Union all designate Hamas a terrorist organization. The U.K., along with the U.S. and other allies, have called on Israel not to proceed with a planned ground offensive in Rafah unless civilians have been safely moved out. More than 1 million refugees have taken refuge in the city in southern Gaza, which has become the strips last remaining safe haven. Israel has promised to allow civilians out, though has yet to set out how this will happen. Israel will go ahead with the operation unless more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas are released by the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan next month, Benny Gantz, a member of the Israeli war cabinet said on Sunday. Israel argues it cant successfully eradicate Hamas in Gaza without proceeding. In a letter to U.K. parliamentarians published Tuesday, Foreign Secretary David Cameron expressed deep concern about the prospect of a military offensive in Rafah, adding that we do not underestimate the devastating humanitarian impacts that a full ground offensive, if enacted, would have. The latest U.K. government review of export licenses took place in December, finding that British exports to Israel have not been used to commit a serious violation of international humanitarian law, Cameron said in the letter. That meant the U.K. had decided not to suspend or revoke extant licenses, he wrote, adding that all licenses were kept under careful and continuous review. If Israel makes it hard for aid convoys to travel into Gaza, that could also bring about a change in the legal advice on whether Israel was abiding by international law, people familiar with the matter said. The U.K. and its allies want Israel to let 500 trucks carrying essential supplies into Gaza each day, while at present, only significantly smaller numbers are getting through. There is a real risk of famine in Gaza unless aid increases, the people said. British defense exports to Israel totaled 42 million ($53 million) in 2022, according to a statement by Defense Secretary Grant Shapps last year, citing the latest available figures. Some 114 licenses for defense exports from Britain to Israel have been granted, he said. The U.K. supplies Israel with components for combat aircraft, missiles and tanks, as well as small arms and ammunition, Human Rights Watch said last year. During a previous conflict in 2014, the U.K. of which Cameron was prime minister at the time - said it would suspend some arms exports to Israel if hostilities continued in Gaza. Ultimately, exports were not restricted during that conflict. With assistance from Kitty Donaldson. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Fans of Luis Villar Sudek, better known as Luisito Comunica, have followed him on his trips around the world, where he explains each destination in detail. In 2012, he launched his own YouTube channel and since then, his popularity has soared. Between 2020 and 2023, he was the king of YouTubers in Mexico. Today, he has more than 42 million followers on the video platform. But his career as a content creator has not been without controversy. The most recent scandal broke out as a result of his visit in El Salvador to the Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT), the maximum security prison, where Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele plans to confine 40,000 gang members. On social media, Luisito Comunica has been accused of making pro-Bukele propaganda and, above all else, of dehumanizing the prisoners. In the video, Luisito Comunica has unrestricted access to the facilities, and whole-heartedly justifies the prison conditions. Seeing these images, its easy to be moved, to clutch your heart and say wow, what harsh mistreatment there is inside the prison. But when you learn about the human atrocities they have committed, it all makes sense, he says in one segment. The influencer assumes that all the inmates are guilty, despite the large number of allegations of arbitrary detentions and lack of due process in El Salvador. Inmates in the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) in the municipality of Tecoluca, El Salvador, on February 6, 2024. Gladys Serrano Fernando Bustos, philosopher and cultural critic, argues its wrong and to a certain extent dangerous that people with so much influence, with such a large audience, do not politically and socially question the things they say. We are living at a time when suddenly it seems as if your number of followers turns you into a kind of bearer of truth, of authority. These people [influencers] are protected by freedom of expression and therefore we can say anything. Julio Juarez Gamiz, a professor at the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Sciences and Humanities of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (CEIICH-UNAM), says that content creators like Luisito Comunica produce what he calls peripheral journalism: they use the codes and narrative of traditional journalism, but without the deontological criteria of the profession. They are at the service of whoever hires them to position topics, angles, frames that favor their sponsors, although this is where the most delicate issue comes in the viewer does not know that certain content comes from a commercial agreement that, many times, is made behind the audiences back. Users do not see it as the result of a commercial negotiation, but as the exercise of freedom of expression, explains Juarez, who also specializes in political communication. Luisito Comunicas visit to CECOT took place in the context of the elections held in El Salvador a couple of weeks ago, in which Bukele after eliminating the constitutional restrictions on reelection won a second term with more than 80% support. Apart from content creators, the Salvadoran president also welcomed international media, such as EL PAIS and the BBC, but did not grant them the same access or privileges that Comunica and other influencers were given. Bukele, an expert in advertising and political marketing, has always known how to sell himself as an anti-establishment figure, far removed from the old guard of politics and traditional media. For this same reason, he uses YouTubers such as Luisito Comunica or figures such as Tucker Carlson, the controversial ultra-conservative U.S. journalist, as spokespersons. Nayib Bukele and Gabriela Rodriguez de Bukele, at the National Palace of El Salvador, on February 4, 2024. Gladys Serrano Bukele is a smart guy and he knows that what an influencer can say has more weight than what a journalist can say. Having articles written about me is of no value if I can just invite Luisito Comunica and with that, I kill or shut up everything else, explains Bustos. According to Juarez, the fact that this type of influencer is giving free rein to these kinds of messages helps legitimize Bukele, with content bordering on dramatization and spectacularization. They are doing exactly the same reportage [Luisito Comunica and Lethal Crysis]. Many of the images you see are the same, these visual props, aerial shots of the prison that the very government of El Salvador provides them with. If you watch the video, its the same narrative: We get to the prison, we see the prisoners, it looks sad, but there are people who deserve it. It should put into perspective what kind of journalism this is and what kind of interests are being served by this infotainment, which says Im going to scare you, Im going to show you these evil people who indeed deserve these punishments, says the CEIICH-UNAM researcher. Luisito Comunica, who in 2021 interviewed Bukele together with YouTuber Juan Bertheau, sparked an earlier controversy after he celebrated buying a seafront apartment at a bargain price in Venezuela, amid the countrys deep crisis. He was also questioned in 2019 for a video, involving his then girlfriend Cinthya Velazquez, in which he joked about sexually abusing her. The truth is my goal is to make you really drunk and then abuse you a bit later, he told the camera. That same year he was questioned about his visit to Nicaragua, in a video titled The Country They Advised Me NEVER to Visit, given the reports of human rights violations in the country. Bustos says there is a suspicion about how much content is paid for. We only pay attention to what is presented to us in an entertaining way and of course there is a great danger. Just because something can be entertaining does not mean that the information is true, the philosopher adds. 'Luisito Comunica' during his visit to Nicaragua, in April 2019. Canal Luisito Comunica Juarez is convinced that these spokespersons are used to put on the agenda the issues that those in power have a vested interest in. It would be very naive not to establish a relationship between one and the other [influencers and the people in power] when what has been demonstrated is that there is an impact and also a closeness, he explains. It is very important to recognize this freedom of expression, Juarez adds, and to recognize platforms as an effective channel of communication. But we must also stay focused on the professional rigor with which this type of content is generated. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Construction workers demolish a former barracks building on Camp Lejeune, N.C., on Nov. 1, 2023. Dozens of construction projects are underway at the coastal North Carolina Marine base, including some $3.6 billion worth of renovations and new building projects authorized after the catastrophic Hurricane Florence caused major damage to the base in 2018. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes) The Pentagon admitted its aging housing and other buildings on hundreds of U.S. installations were substandard in a new strategy released last week that aims to improve military infrastructure to better serve the lives of service members. The Defense Department now faces $134 billion in a growing backlog on needed infrastructure maintenance and upgrades across the 538 bases that it owns in the United States and 25 other countries, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks wrote in the strategy published Feb. 14 and dubbed the Resilient and Healthy Defense Communities Strategy. While the department spends almost $30 billion every year on building new facilities and upgrading old structures, Hicks wrote it was not enough to address problems in the Pentagons buildings most of which were built in the 1970s or earlier. The department recognizes that a significant gap persists between installation conditions today and the quality standards that our service members and their families expect and deserve, Hicks wrote in a memorandum accompanying the strategys release. Given the magnitude of the infrastructure funding deficit, it is imperative that we not only invest more but also invest better to achieve our goal of delivering healthy, safe, functional, and resilient spaces. Hicks wrote improving facilities for service members, Defense Department civilian employees and military family members was a national security imperative and our moral obligation to the people who defend our nation. Each of the military services have admitted to problems that plague their infrastructure, especially with on-post living quarters in family housing managed by private agencies and barracks run by the military. Among the most high-profile issues have been mold infestations in housing at numerous posts and reports of rodent and insect infestations, shortages of living spaces, and infrastructure problems such as broken air conditioning systems. In recent weeks, soldiers at Fort Liberty, N.C., have also seen trash piling up in dumpsters on the post, with Army officials there blaming equipment problems with the company contracted to dispose of waste on the installation. Lawmakers have called out the military for years over poor living conditions. But Congress has yet to pass a Pentagon budget for fiscal 2024, which began Oct. 1, that could provide funding to address infrastructure problems. Top military officials, meanwhile, have admitted the substandard living conditions likely have contributed to the militarys recent recruiting woes. Barracks and other living facilities for single service members are at the top of the list of needed improvements, said Brendan Owens, the assistant defense secretary of energy, installations and environment. We are centering everything that we are doing in that space around making sure that we are understanding what soldiers, the sailors, the airmen, the Marines, the guardians need out of their facilities in order to make sure that the version of themselves that shows up to work the next day after spending a night in a barracks or a dorm is the best version that we can for them to execute their mission. The new plan outlines three areas of the Pentagons on-post communities that it seeks to improve new requirements based on improving human wellness, cutting down the Defense Departments footprint, and finding new ways to manage department assets. Hicks vowed to adopt human-centered requirements, which would include new technology-based mechanisms for troops and their families to provide feedback to installation managers, and it would seek to improve facilities with human wellness in mind instead of providing troops merely utilitarian living quarters. She also called on the Pentagon to eliminate underused and inadequate buildings through consolidation to shrink the Defense Departments massive infrastructure and save money. Hicks called for a smaller, higher-quality portfolio of newer buildings that are purpose-built to last for decades and better withstand harsher climates than structures the military built in and before the 1970s. Finally, Hicks called on the Pentagon to develop a new asset management strategy to improve the DODs sustainment performance while also reducing costs. She wants the department to deepen partnerships with private industry, local and state governments, and academic and community organizations to leverage their capabilities in infrastructure financing, design, construction, and management. The strategy instructs the military to consider the happiness and well-being of its service members, their families and the civilians who work on installations when building new structures or improving existing buildings. Hicks asked officials consider things such as the ability to walk to amenities on post, how much natural light is present in homes, and how community designs can influence social interaction when designing new military infrastructure. The strategy did not indicate how much money planned improvements would cost or how long its implementation could take. A Pentagon spokesperson said Wednesday that such estimates were unavailable. Hicks wrote it would take significant investment to bring the Pentagons infrastructure up to an acceptable level. The efforts will begin with a DOD-wide survey of existing infrastructure to better align supply with demand, [identify] opportunities to consolidate, repurpose, and, where applicable, dispose of excess facilities that are no longer necessary to execute the mission or meet our peoples needs, according to the strategy. Sailors attached to Naval Air Facility Atsugi in August 2021 unload bed frames to be placed inside an unaccompanied housing building at the installation as part of a building revitalization project. (Ange Olivier Clement/U.S. Navy) WASHINGTON The Defense Department would be compelled to assess the quality of overseas military barracks under a new House bill aimed at improving housing conditions for service members stationed around the world. The legislation, introduced by two members of the House Armed Services Committee, seeks a comprehensive review of unaccompanied housing outside the U.S. and the establishment of uniform housing standards within the Defense Department. We need to know the size and scale of poor-quality U.S. military housing both across the country and worldwide so we can get the necessary resources and funding to fix it, said Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., the bills co-sponsor. Lawmakers said the bill is a response to a government watchdog study last year that found mold and mildew, sewage overflow, broken windows and locks, rodent infestations and other hazardous conditions across 31 military installations inside the United States. The report also showed a lack of oversight by the Defense Department and a failure to establish department-wide health standards for unaccompanied housing facilities. Barracks outside the U.S. were notably absent from the investigation, said bill co-sponsor Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va. Unfortunately, our own reporting, which shows serious deficiencies in domestic housing that pose health and safety risks to our service members, fails to oversee the standards of housing abroad, Jacobs said. The overseas barracks study would close that research gap, she said. Military housing has dominated the conversation for the House Armed Services Committee in recent weeks as lawmakers prepare for the release of the Pentagons fiscal 2025 budget and begin work on the annual National Defense Authorization Act policy bill. Top members of the committee sent a letter to President Joe Biden last week urging him to allocate extra resources to address quality-of-life issues, including housing, in the White Houses upcoming defense budget request. Senior enlisted leaders told House lawmakers last month that poor compensation and housing, particularly for junior service members, topped the list of complaints from troops and are likely exacerbating ongoing struggles with recruitment. The Defense Department has acknowledged its efforts to improve housing have not gone far enough. A department official earlier this month blamed the persistence of the problem on the sheer size of the militarys inventory, a growing backlog of deferred maintenance and ineffective management practices. Another Pentagon official admitted no one had been fired as a result of last years investigation into unsafe living conditions in U.S. barracks. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks last week unveiled a new strategy to shrink the departments massive infrastructure footprint and invest in a smaller, higher-quality portfolio of new buildings. She said the department faces a $134 billion maintenance backlog. Funding for maintenance and upgrade work planned for fiscal 2024, which began Oct. 1, continues to be held up in Congress as lawmakers negotiate a dozen spending bills for the year. A partial government shutdown affecting spending for military construction will begin March 2 if there is no agreement. Kiggans, a former Navy helicopter pilot, said the study that she is proposing will allow Congress to better target its spending going forward and direct funding toward raising living standards for troops. Our bipartisan bill will provide much-needed oversight and encourage the Department of Defense to house our men and women in uniform in the highest quality facilities, regardless of where they are serving, she said. A training exercise in August 2018 of the 167th Theater Sustainment Command Judge Advocate General at the Calhoun County Courthouse in Anniston, Ala. (Katherine Dowd/U.S. Army National Guard) Four independent military prosecution offices created by Congress have invoked their authority in the past two months to take the decision-making in 2,658 courts-martial from generals and admirals. Under the new policy, which took effect Dec. 28, 162 specially trained attorneys serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines would have the last say on bringing court-martial charges against defendants for 13 specific offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the militarys legal statutes, the Pentagon said. The crimes include murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, rape, certain sex crimes, crimes against children, intimidation such as stalking or retaliation, and the possession or distribution of pornographic or intimate images or other materials. Sexual harassment will become part of the jurisdiction of the counsels on Jan. 1, 2025. Four special counsels have been created one each for the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force, which will also handle cases involving the Space Force. The attorneys will be among the 2,000 staffers working for the four offices, according to the Pentagon. Officials with each services special trial counsel confirmed last week the number of cases investigated or prosecuted under the new policy. The Air Force said its counsel invoked court-martial authority in 970 cases. The Navy counsel took over 855 cases. The Army has moved 594 cases to its counsel. The Marines moved 239 cases. Prior to the policy, commanding officers had great leeway on when to prosecute, who would sit on court-martial panels, and what the sentences would be, according to a Defense Department briefing in December. Critics in Congress such as Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and advocates for victims of sex crimes such as former Air Force prosecutor Don Christensen have said top military officers were not recommending charges in many sex abuse cases. In others, commanders were accused of reducing or negating punishments determined in courts-martial. The new policy was supported by some lawmakers, such as Gillibrand, who had introduced legislation calling for special counsels more than a decade ago. It took a long time to pass my reforms, but finally, victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes have the independent, impartial justice system they deserve, she has said. It also had backing from others, including Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, who has said she was sexually harassed during her 23-year career in the Army, in which she rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. A majority in both chambers of Congress supported an end to command influence on courts-martial, according to an April 2021 report in the New York Times. The 2020 killing at Fort Cavazos, Texas, of Spc. Vanessa Guillen, whose reports of sexual harassment went uninvestigated prior to her death, drew national attention and helped spark the change. An internal Pentagon report cited by The Times said younger enlisted personnel did not trust their commands to fairly investigate complaints a view that some Pentagon leaders said could undermine military retention and recruiting. In January 2021, President Joe Biden ordered Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to create a commission to review sexual assault in the military. The 13-member panel of civilian experts and former military leaders issued a report with 82 recommendations, including an end to command decisions in sex crime cases. Austin endorsed the recommendations to create special prosecutors to handle sex crime cases, as did Biden. Congress passed the framework for what became the offices of special counsel in December 2021 and created training to staff the operations. Biden issued an executive order in July 2023 to amend the UCMJ to remove commanders from sex crime decisions. Its the most important reform to our military justice system since the creation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice in 1950, Austin said in a statement in December. Under the new policy, new cases involving the 13 selected crimes that are reported after Dec. 28 will automatically go to the new special counsels. However, the policy also allows the counsels to review cases already underway and assume the prosecution from the existing command. At least one case involving the 13 offenses has already been tried under the new policy and led to a conviction, according to Michelle McCaskill, communications director for the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel, which is based in Fort Belvoir, Va. Army Sgt. Antonio Robert Aden, 27, an active-duty soldier on Okinawa, was found guilty on Feb. 7 of rape and sexual assault of victims in California and South Korea, according to McCaskill. The case was originally charged by U.S. Army Japan. Aden was sentenced to 20 years in prison, a dishonorable discharge, a reduction to the rank of private, and forfeiture of all pay and allowances. Aside from the 13 crimes moved to the special counsels, all other UCMJ violations remain under the authority of commanding officers, according to memos released in December by each service. Commanding officers are required to forward any allegations regarding violations of the 13 crimes to the offices of the special counsels in their service to determine whether to pursue charges. Our office has been empowered to independently evaluate and prosecute cases based on the facts and evidence, free from outside influence, Col. Rob Rodrigues, acting lead special trial counsel for the Army, said Dec. 28 the first day of the new policy. The U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 20, 2024, denied two petitions calling for a review of more than a dozen cases in which the militarys top appeals court ruled that unanimous verdicts are unnecessary for criminal convictions in courts-martial. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes) The Supreme Court has declined to hear two cases challenging the constitutionality of split-jury guilty verdicts in military court. Justices on Tuesday denied two petitions calling for a review of more than a dozen cases in which the U.S. militarys top appeals court ruled that unanimous verdicts are unnecessary for criminal convictions at courts-martial. The court did not issue a statement explaining the decision. At least four justices must grant a petition for the court to hear the case. Lawyers representing the service members in their final appeal attempt before the nations high court argued their clients have a constitutional right to a unanimous verdict by a military jury. Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, a two-thirds majority is required for a guilty verdict in a general court-martial, the most serious type of military trial. That law has come under a flurry of challenges since April 2020, when the U.S. Supreme Court banned split jury verdicts in state criminal cases. The 6-3 decision in Ramos v. Louisiana said state courts are also bound by the long-standing requirement in federal courts that all jurors must agree for a defendant to be convicted. If, as Ramos held, unanimous verdicts are necessary in the civilian criminal justice system to ensure impartiality, it ought to follow that they are equally necessary to achieve the same result in a court-martial, lawyers in Jonathan M. Martinez et al v. United States wrote in a September 2023 filing before the Supreme Court. The Martinez petition consolidated appeals from 16 service members convicted by court-martial in the last two years. The other petition from Anthony Anderson asserted a similar argument. The Air Force master sergeant was convicted on two specifications of attempted sexual abuse of a child during a court-martial at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The charges stemmed from online communications he had with a fictitious 13-year-old girl. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison, demotion to E-1 and a dishonorable discharge. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces rejected his claim that his conviction should be tossed because of the split verdict, observing that nonunanimous decisions have been a feature of American courts-martial since the founding of our nations military justice system. In Martinez, each of the defendants requested that jurors be told a unanimous verdict was required for any guilty finding, a motion denied by the judge, according to the Supreme Court petition. Like Andersons case, their appeals were ultimately denied by the militarys highest court. Given the importance of the issue to the future of the military justice system, this Court ought to have the last word on the matter, lawyers for Martinez and the other 15 defendants said in their Supreme Court filing. Government lawyers in the Anderson case argued that the matter should be left to military courts, in light of the militarys status as a community that stands apart from civilian society and where primary oversight comes from Congress and the president. Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz and Pakistan Peoples Party reached an agreement on sharing power on Tuesday. Addressing a press conference at Bilawal House on Tuesday, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that Shehbaz Sharif will be the joint candidate for prime minister while Asif Zardari would be the joint candidate for president. The party known as Sunni Ittehad Council does not have the numbers to form government, Bilawal said. The PPP chairman said that the Pakistan faced innumerable challenges and the new government would need prayers to meet them. We invited independent members to form government if they had the numbers, Shehbaz Sharif said. He went on to say that the combined strength of PPP and PMLN was enough to form government in the centre. Not only will we vote together for the important positions, but will also work together for the betterment of the country, Shehbaz added. He went on to say that taking government was a matter of selflessness and sacrifice. It is not a matter of taking turns, he added. Zardari asked for the nation to pray for the success for the new government. All our endeavours are for Pakistan and for the upcoming generations, he said. The press conference took place after a late-night meeting at Ishaq Dars residence between Shahbaz and Bilawal. PMLN leaders Malik Ahmad Khan, Ishaq Dar and Azam Nazeer Tarar were also present in the meeting. Qmar Zaman Kaira, Nadeem Afzal Chan and Murad Ali Shah were also part of the PPP delegation. The meeting between the two leaders took place at Ishaq Dars residence in Islamabad. Prior to meeting Bilawal, Shehbaz reportedly met Nawaz Sharif in Murree and briefed him on the progree with talks with PPP. Who gets what? In response to a question, Shehbaz said that the two sides will discuss and announce who will keep what office in upcoming days. However, according to sources an agreement has been reached between the two parties. As per the reported agreement between the two parties, the PMLN will be allowed to nominated candidates for the post of prime minister, governor Sindh, Governor Balochistan and speaker National Assembly. On the other hand, PPP will be allowed to nominate candidates for president, Senate chairman, and governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Sullivan, IN (47882) Today Some snow flurries during the morning hours will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High 41F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph.. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low near 25F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Karl Phipps (40) had a wake-up call when gardai raided the house with a search warrant. A father of two caught with 3,000 worth of cannabis jellies at his home was using the drug to self-medicate while trying to beat a painkiller addiction, a court heard. Karl Phipps (40) had a wake-up call when gardai raided the house with a search warrant. Judge Monika Leech adjourned the case for evidence that he was now staying drug-free. Phipps, with addresses at Beaupark Mews, Clongriffin and Bannow Road, Cabra, pleaded guilty to possession of tetrahydrocannabinol with intent to sell or supply at Beaupark Mews, Clongriffin. He also admitted simple possession of cannabis. Separately, Phipps pleaded guilty to theft of fuel from a filling station in two drive-off incidents. Dublin District Court heard gardai searched the address in Clongriffin on November 28, 2022, finding cannabis worth 60 and 50 packets of edible jellies worth a total of 3,000. In the drive-offs, Phipps went to Circle K on Clonshaugh Road on March 11, 2020, and drove off without paying for 10 worth of diesel. He then carried out a similar offence at the same garage on May 10, 2021. Phipps, a gas service engineer, had been working all his life, his solicitor Yvonne Bambury said. He was prescribed painkillers and became addicted to them, then used these tablets to deal with the painkiller addiction and was self-medicating. This was how he came to be in this position. When Phipps was arrested in 2022, it was the wake-up call he needed to tackle his addiction and he was now living a drug-free life, Ms Bambury said. Although he was pleading guilty, he maintained the figure provided by the gardai for the value of the drugs was more than what they would have cost on the street. Judge Leech said she drugs seized were a very large amount and she would need to see updated urinalysis results before finalising the case. I would like to see some kind of established pattern, she said. Phipps was giving clean samples to prove this and also had compensation in court to pay for the stolen petrol. The couple had been arrested in January 2019 after gardai found 940,000 of cannabis herb in a County Louth premises. A glamorous Moldovan couple are to fight a High Court action to keep their Co Louth mansion from being seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau. Eduard and Natalie Chiper are being pursued by CAB in a legal case after criminal charges against them were dropped over an almost 1 million drugs haul in 2019. In the High Court today it was heard they are to defend the claims against them, although no affidavits have been filed as yet. Judge Alex Owens asked the counsel for the couple: When is your client going to set out their case? Their lawyer said efforts are being made to file a defence and added that affidavit from their solicitor had been filed to explain the efforts being made. This included attempts to get documentation from Moldova to support their case which has seen a high level of instruction and detail. It was added that a forensic quantity surveyor for the couple had completed a report and controversy arises in relation to a report carried out for the CAB. They were also seeking documents on which CAB had based their own affidavits outlining their case against the couple. Counsel for CAB said they had written to the couples solicitor setting out previous court directions in January that affidavits be filed on their behalf within four weeks. It was added that that the proceedings for a Section 3 motion had started five months ago but there been no substantial progress. Judge Owens said hed give the defence six weeks to sort yourselves out and that would be enough time for their forensic accountant to liaise with their counterpart in CAB and to get documents from Moldovan as well as to file all the relevant affidavits The Sunday World previously revealed how The White House in a Co Louth townland, seven kilometres north of Drogheda is the subject of the Proceeds of Crime Act action. Under the Proceeds of Crime the Criminal Assets Bureau can seek to have property of people declared as being bought with crime cash. Targets of a CAB action, who may have no criminal convictions, must provide evidence of legitimate income to show how the assets were bought. The case against the Chipers is currently at the Section 3 stage to have their assets declared the proceeds of crime. If CAB wins such as order it can move onto Section 4, which involves a receiver being appointed with the power to take over the property and to sell it off. Moldovan couple Eduard and Natalie Chiper The couple had been arrested in January 2019 after gardai found 940,000 of cannabis herb in a County Louth premises. They had both spent time in custody before getting bail, the case against them was later dropped by the Director of Prosecutions. In 2019 the DPP withdrew charges against the husband and wife who were alleged to have been in possession of the cannabis. They had been charged in January that year with being in possession of the drugs with the intent to sell or supply under Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. They were also charged with simple possession of drugs under Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, it had been heard in court hearings at the time. The couple were arrested on January 24 after a planned search of the premises was carried out by detectives from the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, assisted by officers from the Criminal Assets Bureau and officers from the Co Louth division. Jim Kidumbu alleged his foot was run over by a taxi during incident in Dublin A public order offender roared accusations of racism when gardai came to investigate a disturbance and claimed Im the real victim. Jim Kidumbu (35), who alleged his foot was run over by a taxi, shouted about white bitches and lashed out as gardai tried to subdue him. His defence said he felt hard done by on the day but Judge Kevin Staunton said there was no excuse for his totally unacceptable behaviour. Finding him guilty, he gave the accused a six-month suspended sentence. Kidumbu, of The Maltings, Watling Street, Dublin 8, had pleaded not guilty to threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour and garda obstruction. Garda Darragh Frewen told Dublin District Court he was called to South Great Georges Street on November 23 last year, and saw the accused shouting in a mans face in an aggressive manner. Kidumbu shouted at the gardai about the white bitches, saying Im the real f**king victim here. He also said f**k yous c**ts. When told he would be arrested, Kidumbu continued to shout aggressively, saying racist bastard, get away you pig c**t. He refused to place his hands behind his back and lashed out. The accused told the court a taxi driver had driven over his foot. He maintained he was remonstrating with the driver who was trying to leave the area and denied using any nasty language. Kidumbu had been seeking assistance and got frustrated that a certain view was taken initially of the incident, his solicitor Tony Collier said. There wasnt any reference to any traffic accident, Gda Frewen said. For whatever reason, Kidumbu was annoyed, Judge Staunton said, but he accepted the gardas version of events. Judge Jennifer OBrien said today in the Circuit Civil Court that while she accepted defamatory words had been spoken by the manager of The Halfway House, Ashtown, Dublin 7 Three Dublin men, who claimed they had been wrongly accused of attempting to leave a restaurant without paying for their food, have each lost 75,000 claims for defamation of character and ordered to pay the restaurants legal bill. Judge Jennifer OBrien said today in the Circuit Civil Court that while she accepted defamatory words had been spoken by the manager of The Halfway House, Ashtown, Dublin 7, the court did not consider he had spoken recklessly or with malice. Barrister Conor Kearney, counsel for Springdale Inns Limited which trades as The Halfway House on Dublins Navan Road, told the court every retail establishment in the country had a right to inquire of any customer if they had paid the bill. He said manager Robert Hamilton did not have a specific memory of having engaged with any group of three customers in December 2020 but accepted, when the case arose, that he had questioned one man if he intended leaving the premises with others before paying for food. Mr Hamilton said that after asking if the bill had been paid one of the men had said they were just walking out to a smoking area and that their jackets were still hanging on the backs of their chairs. When he had checked he had seen the mens jackets still at their table and later when all of them were leaving he had apologized for his mistake. Mr Kearney said Mr Hamilton had seen the three men walking towards the door and had moved from behind the bar to speak to them once he had established the bill for their table had not been met. Mr Hamilton, who said he had been with the company for 30 years, denied having shouted across the bar and restaurant: Where do you lot think you are off to. Get back here, you havent paid your bill. He told Judge OBrien there were other people nearby who would have heard him asking if the bill had been paid. Judge OBrien dismissed the claims of Niall Hanley, Abbottstown Avenue; Gavin Mooney, of Barry Close, and Aaron Hutch, Virginia Drive, all Finglas, Dublin 11, and directed they pay the defendants legal costs. The judge said the court accepted Mr Hamiltons evidence that he had not shouted and that he had acknowledged other people heard him and he had attempted to rectify the situation afterwards and apologized. The court is satisfied Mr Hamilton took reasonable steps to address the situation and had made an honest mistake, Judge OBrien said. There has been no evidence of malice. Binoy Viswam Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Date: 20th February, 2024 To, Shri Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra Respected Shri Eknath Shinde Ji, I write this letter to register my profound disappointment with the manner in which the Maharashtra Government is probing one of the most heinous acts of political terrorism in the country. On February 20, 10 years back, Comrade Govind Pansare was shot at by cowardly armed assailants. Comrade Pansare was a senior leader of the CPI and was well renowned across Maharashtra for activism and intellect. His books on communalism and on the inclusive legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are part of almost every household in Maharashtra. Apart from being a writer, Comrade Govind Pansare was a freedom fighter who stood for the people. His role in the Maharashtra movement, Goa Liberation Struggle, and activism for social harmony and rationalism remains unforgettable. Its a matter of shame that even after 10 years of his martyrdom, the culprits are scot-free and the police have completely failed in conducting a thorough investigation. Maharashtra is the land of great champions of social justice like Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Phule and Shahuji. Their legacy formed the crux of Comrade Pansares life and work. In that very land, fundamentalists can gun down a beloved leader of the people and roam freely is intolerable. In this context, as a tribute to Comrade Pansares rich contributions to progressive values in Maharashtra and acknowledging the lapses in investigation in the last 10 years, I urge you to immediately constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe this heinous crime. A fast-track and fair probe into his assassination will restore peoples trust on the law-and-order situation in Maharashtra. Yours Sincerely Binoy Viswam Leader of CPI Parliamentary Group & Secretary, National Council Member, Committee on Public Undertakings Member, Standing Committee on Labour, Textiles and Skill Development Member, Consultative Committee on Environment, Forest and Climate Change The new voice of the Russian opposition has received the express support of other dissidents, even those who had bitter spats with Alexei Navalnys organization in recent years. Yulia Navalnaya, 47, announced in a video on Monday that she will continue the work of her husband, who died suddenly in an Arctic prison just a month before the Russian presidential elections. Sectors of the Russian opposition movement have applauded her message, seeing in Navalnys widow a figure capable of uniting the different movements that oppose the Kremlin. Others, however, have remained silent. Todays announcement means theres still a leader in the Russian opposition. Alexeis movement and everything he stood for, didnt vanish into thin air, stressed Maxim Katz, a controversial blogger and former Yabloko party member, whom Navalny told Katz go to hell in September after he proposed a large opposition coalition ahead of the presidential elections in March. [The ruling party] United Russia and Putin have always stolen votes. The question was whether we would catch them. Now, thanks to electronic voting, it is impossible, said Navalny, arguing that the Kremlin elections are rigged. Despite the tense social media exchanges between Katz and other members of Navalnys team, the dissident offered his support to Yulia Navalnaya in a video posted on his YouTube channel. Katz said that Navalnayas decision to continue her husbands work means that the organized resistance will carry on. The people will know theres a person behind it. And millions of Russians who want to see an alternative to Putin will keep seeing it. Yulia is safe, reachable, he said, arguing that she has the political experience of being Navlanys wife for 24 years and also has access to European politicians and media. Other Russian dissidents, with tens and hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, also showed their unequivocal support for Navalnaya. Yulia, strength and patience! You can count on my support! said former State Duma deputy Dmitri Gudkov, who is now in exile. Navalnayas announcement was applauded by the leadership of Navalnys Anti-Corruption Foundation. I think Ive seen the video five times now. And each time it continues to be incredibly difficult, but it gives us hope, said Georgy Alburov, the head of the investigation unit. Anger in the Kremlin In addition to taking up her husbands cause, Navalnaya also accused Vladimir Putin of his murder an accusation that has greatly upset the Kremlin. Of course, these are absolutely unfounded and vulgar accusations against the head of the Russian state. But taking into account that Yulia Navalnaya was widowed just days ago, I will not comment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday. They are very offended, said Navalnys former spokesperson, Kira Yarmysh. Within Russia, the liberal Yabloko party from which Navalny was expelled in 2007 for his nationalist views has not commented on Navalnayas announcement. The group which has no seat in the Russian Parliament tries to do politics from within Putins regime, which it accused of killing Navalny in a prison under conditions that amounted to torture. However, a prominent member of Yabloko, Lev Shlosberg, warned against the comparisons being made between Navalnaya and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who was chosen to stand as the Belarusian opposition candidate in the 2020 presidential elections after her husband, Sergei Tikhanovsky, was arrested before the vote. The incumbent, Aleksandr Lukashenko, won 80% of the votes, sparking massive protests over electoral fraud. Political leadership is not inherited, Shlosberg told the newspaper Holod, pointing out that Navalnaya may face arrest if she returns to Russia. Yulia cannot come to Russia and carry out political actions here. She cannot create any political structure in our country, she would be arrested upon entering and deprived of her freedom, and her children would be left not only without a father, but also without a mother. Other opposition figures in exile, such as chess player Garry Kasparov and businessman Mikhail Khodorkovsky considered by Russians to be too removed from the countrys internal political reality did not speak directly about Navalnayas video, although they both shared it on social media and advocated for the Russian opposition to come together. Our reaction to his murder must be to join forces, carry on his work together, and ensure that hope for a democratic Russia does not die with him, said Khodorkovsky, the former owner of the Yukos oil company, said in a message on X. Other opposition leaders who have been imprisoned by the Kremlin, such as Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin, have not yet comment on Navalnayas video, as it often takes days for news to reach them. Both, however, lamented the death of their fellow dissident. We must stop him [Putin]. Only Russian society can do this, wrote Kara-Murza, poisoned twice in the last decade. A great responsibility now falls on Navalnayas shoulders. A lot depends on what she will have to offer, political scientist Tatiana Stanovaya said in a post on Telegram. Not as the widow of an outstanding politician who was tortured to death, but as an independent figure. Pressure on Navalnys family Navalnys mother arrived last Saturday in the Arctic town of Harp, almost 1,240 miles northeast of Moscow, to collect her sons remains and demand an explanation. But the Kremlin refused to hand over Navalnys body. Let me finally see my son, Lyudmila Navalnaya cried in a video message on Tuesday, recorded in front of the IK-3 prison in the Arctic Circle. For a fifth day I cannot see him, they arent giving me his body and dont even tell me where he is, she said, hiding tearful eyes behind dark glasses. I appeal to you, Vladimir Putin. Resolving this issue depends on you alone. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexeis body be released immediately so that I can bury him humanely. Hours after the video was broadcast, the Russian government responded by issuing another threat against Navalnys family. The Ministry of the Interior included his brother, Oleg Navalny, on its wanted list for unspecified criminal charges. His whereabouts have been unknown since he left the country in the fall of 2021, after being sentenced to a year in prison on charges of violating coronavirus restrictions by participating in anti-Kremlin protests. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Kelly Maguire (29) did not benefit from the theft herself, her defence said. A mother-of-one shoplifted more than 300 worth of protein bars from a supermarket while under the influence of a co-accused, a court heard. Kelly Maguire (29) did not benefit from the theft herself, her defence said. Judge Bryan Smyth fined her 200 at Dublin District Court. Maguire, with an address at Church Road, East Wall, pleaded guilty to theft. A garda told the court that the accused went to a north city centre Tesco Express on November 29, 2022 and took two boxes of Fulfil bars worth a combined 302. She left the shop without paying and was later identified on CCTV footage. The court heard Maguire was fully co-operative with the gardai. Maguire had 21 previous convictions for charges including theft and driving offences. She had struggled with drug addiction since the death of a friend when she went on a downward spiral and began hanging out with the wrong kind of people, her solicitor Amanda Connolly said. She had come under the influence of a co-accused at the time. The accused had not benefitted from the theft and her co-accused was being dealt with separately, the court heard. Since the theft, Maguire had detoxed, was now on methadone and hoped to go to a treatment centre. The man was arrested on Wednesday morning and is being questioned at a garda station in west Dublin. Gardai investigating the killing of gunman Tristan Sherry after he opened fire in a Dublin restaurant on Christmas Eve have made their tenth arrest. The man was arrested on Wednesday morning and is being questioned at a garda station in west Dublin. Sherry (26) died from injuries he sustained after he carried out a gun attack in Brownes Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on the night of December 24 last. Jason Hennessy Snr (48), who was shot by Sherry while having a meal with family and friends, later died in hospital. Hennessy Snr was shot in the neck and upper body as he stood up and confronted Sherry in the popular restaurant. He was rushed to hospital, but his condition deteriorated, and he passed away on January 4 as a result of his injuries. Sherry was confronted at the scene and disarmed before being killed and a number of people are currently before the courts in relation to his death. Gardai arrested a man earlier this morning, Wednesday, 21st February 2024, as part of the investigation into the murder of Tristan Sherry that occurred at a premises on the Main Street in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 at approximately 8pm on Sunday, 24th, December 2023, a garda spokesperson said. He is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a Garda Station in West Dublin. This is the tenth arrest made as part of this investigation. Gardai added that investigations are ongoing. They kicked and stomped on his head before pulling his wallet, containing 300, from his hand A 'menace to society' who robbed and assaulted a tourist in Temple Bar hours after they had arrived in Ireland has been jailed for four years and nine months. Glen Duff (36), of Doon Court, Poppintree, Dublin 11, appeared before Judge Martin Nolan in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court having pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and one count of assault causing harm in Temple Bar on two separate dates. Garda Seamus Egan told Sinead McMullan BL, prosecuting, that Duff was involved in a robbery in Temple Bar on April 17, 2022. The injured party was socialising in Temple Bar at around half past one o'clock in the morning when a woman approached him and began speaking with him. CCTV footage played to the court then showed Duff and another man approaching the injured party from behind. One of the men kicked him in the head, before they wrestled the injured party to the ground. They kicked and stomped on his head before pulling his wallet, containing 300, from his hand. The man attended hospital with concussion symptoms and said in a victim impact statement handed in to the court that he still has difficulties with his memory and concentration. The man said he never recovered the money that was stolen and has been trying as much as he can to put the event out of his mind. Duff was well known to gardai and was identified through the CCTV which captured the incident. He was charged on May 22, 2023. Garda Paul Cummings told Ms McMullan that Duff was involved in another robbery along with an assault causing harm while he was on bail for that incident. Duff robbed an American tourist who had just arrived in Ireland hours beforehand in Temple Bar on June 23, 2023. The man left a pub just after midnight and was sitting on the street alone when a woman approached him. She spoke to him for a few moments, before Duff and another man approached. They attacked the tourist and knocked him unconscious. CCTV footage showed them going through his pockets. At one point the man regained consciousness, and they recommenced their attack. The robbers took the man's wallet which had his passport and driving license inside. Duff was again identified through CCTV footage. He was charged, arrested and pleaded guilty to the charges on November 6, 2023. In a victim impact statement handed in to the court, the man said he was afraid to go to hospital because he thought he would have to pay a large medical expense. He described it as a terrible start to his vacation and said the attack left him with a broken finger. The court heard the mugging left him looking over his shoulder for the remainder of his time in Dublin and that he was depressed and frustrated afterwards. Colm Hennessy BL, defending, said both incidents were clearly very serious and that his client had preyed upon the injured parties. He described Duff as somebody who has suffered from a serious drug addiction for a number of years. Mr Hennessy said that at the time of the offending, Duff's addiction was so severe that it wouldn't be unusual for him to go eight days without sleeping and that he had been using crack cocaine, heroin and anything he could get his hands on. He said his client is currently drug free and making steps to rehabilitate himself from his drug addiction whilst in custody. Duff has previous convictions for assault, assault causing harm, robbery, blackmail, extortion, criminal damage, failure to appear, failure to comply with gardai, possession of drugs, possession of knives and theft. In sentencing, Judge Nolan, described the incidents as serious robberies involving violence. Mr Duff doesn't mind using violence against vulnerable people, he noted. Mitigating factors included Duff's plea of guilty, his attempts to deal with his addiction issues and his behaviour whilst in custody. I hope he changes his life and that he will no longer be a menace to society, which he has been up until now, said the judge, before sentencing him to six years 'imprisonment. He suspended the final 15 months on strict conditions to aid his rehabilitation and his return to society. Child found with serious injuries at vacant property An All-Ireland-winning GAA star has been arrested over an alleged assault on a 12-year-old boy. An implement was allegedly used in the attack which resulted in the child being hospitalised. Detectives have been investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident which happened at a vacant property in the south-west of the country last October. Emergency services were alerted to the scene where the child, who was 12 years old at the time, was discovered with serious injuries. He was subsequently rushed to University Hospital Limerick where he was treated for a broken collarbone and facial injuries after being struck. Investigators arrested a man on Monday in relation to the incident on suspicion of assault. The Sunday World has learned that the suspect is an All-Ireland-winning GAA player. Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault. They are appealing for anyone with information to contact them. A garda spokesman confirmed the arrest in a statement, saying: Gardai investigating an alleged assault on a male child that occurred at a premises on Thursday, October 5, 2023, arrested a man on Monday, February 19, 2024, as part of this investigation. The man was detained at a garda station under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984. He has since been released without charge and a file is being prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Gardai are continuing to appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station, the spokesperson added. Once the investigation file is submitted to state prosecutors, they will have to decide if there is sufficient evidence to refer criminal charges against the suspect. At the time of the incident, a source said that there was a delay in taking a formal statement from the child because he was receiving treatment in the hospital. Since then, gardai have been speaking to witnesses as part of the investigation which progressed to the point of the suspect being arrested on Monday. In a statement following the incident, gardai said that a male child was brought to University Hospital Limerick for treatment of serious but not life-threatening injuries. It's the third wave of action launched by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT). A major copyright watchdog in the UK is clamping down on illegal dodgy boxes sellers, with addresses in Dublin, Cork, Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan targeted. It's the third wave of action launched by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) against those selling modified or fully loaded smart TV devices, such as Amazon Fire Sticks, across Ireland. A dodgy box is a device that can bypass TV copyright controls illegally. It is typically sold by individuals who then also sell codes to access illegally streamed premium sports, movies, and other television content. The content is often sold on a subscription basis that costs a fraction of the contents regular pricing. One of the most commonly used devices is the Amazon Fire Stick streaming dongle which plugs into your TVs HDMI port, although Amazon has no involvement in the use of the illegal gadget. FACT and its partners issued a total of 22 legal warnings as part of its most recent operation, with cease-and-desist notices being delivered to illegal sellers in person, by post and by email. The notices demanded that those selling the modified Fire Sticks immediately stop their services or face possible criminal prosecution. The organisation targeted addressed across Dublin, Cork, Meath, West Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Limerick, Louth, Galway and Monaghan between January 22 and February 2 as part of the operation. FACTs action is already having an impact, it claims, with the vast majority of illegal services shutting down their services Further action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the warning. The first two crackdowns took place in March and August 2023 with the aim of eliminating illegal streaming in Ireland and protecting consumers from the risks posed by these services. In December last year, Dublin man Noel Robinson (50) was handed an 18-month suspended sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. after selling 81 illegal Android TV boxes. Noel Robinson (50) pleaded guilty to possessing the boxes, which contain protection-defeating software, in his home at Le Fanu Road, Ballyfermot, on February 14, 2019. In Ireland, using a dodgy box is against the law. The Copyright Act of 2000 says that a person who makes, sells, rents or lends or has in his or her possession, custody or control, a protection-defeating device, knowing or having reason to believe that it has been or is to be used to circumvent rights protection measures, or provides information, or offers or performs any service, intended to enable or assist a person to circumvent rights protection measures, shall be guilty of an offence. However, there has been no widespread enforcement of the law against users of dodgy boxes here, despite their popularity. Mr Pepper posted a video on the social media platform this week stating: Everyone is saying Im a landlord witch (sic) Im not, so I went to the man who spreads the lies, Paul Murphy, and called him out to his face. Tweets from the GavinPepper11 account which suggest the account holder is a landlord Tweets from the GavinPepper11 account which suggest the account holder is a landlord Taxi driver Gavin Pepper says he is not a landlord A local election candidate, named as a far-right agitator in the Dail by TD Paul Murphy, has denied he is a three-house landlord after being confronted over a series of posts on an old Twitter account. Taxi-driver Gavin Pepper, who was arrested over but denied any involvement in an arson attack on the Sandwith Street immigrant encampment, has received widespread support from the far-right over his Ireland is full stance on immigration. In an attempt to address the landlord controversy, Mr Pepper posted a video on the social media platform this week stating: Everyone is saying Im a landlord witch (sic) Im not, so I went to the man who spreads the lies, Paul Murphy, and called him out to his face. Tweets from the GavinPepper11 account which suggest the account holder is a landlord The video shows Mr Pepper accosting Mr Murphy as the politician was entering the High Court seeking to have quashed a decision not to investigate Leo Varadkar for leaking a GP contract. What did you call me? Mr Pepper angrily asked. I said you were a far-right activist, Mr Murphy replies. No, you said more than that! Mr Pepper counters. Check the record, Mr Murphy responds. What did you say? You said I was causing terrorism, Mr Pepper tells the TD. Mr Murphy then tries to end the conversation, telling Mr Pepper: Im trying to make sure Leo Varadkar is investigated here. Listen, dont ever talk about me and bring trouble to my family. Mr Pepper angrily continues. The TD then asks Mr Pepper if he is a landlord in an apparent reference to a series of tweets posted on an account in the name of GavinPepper11 in 2022. Screenshots of the tweets have been widely circulated since. One tweet posted on July 16, 2022 reads: It is when ya getting 2,400 a month per house and state is paying it. Loving it I am pal. Three houses by 2,400 a month is 6200k a month and I earn around 5k a month in the taxi so Im not loaded but I aint broke hunny buns. Tweets from the GavinPepper11 account which suggest the account holder is a landlord Another tweet on the account describes Government-funded HAP (housing assistance payments) as a gravy train. Love to charge more. Im not going lie folks. This is a gravy train. These simpletons think by giving is landlords more money it will solve the housing problems. Hahaha. Rather than building council homes they rent then from me at 2500 a month. Keep it coming. When Mr Murphy questioned Mr Pepper as to whether he is a landlord this week, Mr Pepper responded: No Im not. Get your facts right. Im not a landlord. Mr Pepper also goes on to state: Im not a far-right activist. You are, the TD responds. Youre spreading fear of people, youre spreading lies, youre spreading hatred. Youre spreading division. Youre a landlord. Youre making up stories about me, Mr Pepper responds. And I wont allow it. A search of the Land Registry carried out by the Sunday World could identify only one property as being currently registered to Gavin Pepper. Its understood this property is currently used as his home address in Finglas. The gang have been arrested for cheating the Duolingo English Test Indian police arrested a gang of men who were cheating the entrance tests for Irish third level institutions on Monday. Seven men were apprehended by a special operation team of the LB Nagar zone in Hyderabad, India, on February 19. The Duolingo English Test is an English proficiency assessment used to evaluate candidates ability to read, write, speak, and listen to English. It is a computer-adaptive test, with question difficulty increasing or decreasing depending on answers provided. The Duolingo English Test is used by a huge number of Irish third level institutions to screen candidates, including some major Universities, listed at the bottom of the page. The Hayathnagar police in Hyderabad busted seven men who were charging applicants just a couple of hundred euros each to sit the test for them. All even accused four candidates, two facilitators, and a student who was writing the test on behalf of the candidates were apprehended by a special operation team of the LB Nagar zone on Monday afternoon. Irish facilities may have been unwittingly tricked Police said the mediators were charging candidates between 100-200 with a guarantee of a pass score. The crime squad nabbed three of the accused from a room in a lodge at Hayathnagar, which they raided on the basis of a tip-off. The accused revealed that they were faking the Duolingo tests after being interrogated. Kandakatla Praveen Reddy (22), a BSc computer science student, was allegedly impersonating other candidates. Trivedhi Harinath (21), a business administration student, and Banala Krishna (21), a commerce student, have been accused of acting as intermediaries. The four candidates who allegedly sought to cheat are Edavally Aravind Reddy (21) and Nenavath Santhosh (21), both engineering students, Malladi Naveen Kumar (26), a computer science student, and Alakuntla Vinay (22), another engineering student. Five laptops, four passports, and seven mobile phones were also seized. A case has been registered under Section 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code and further investigation is underway. Below is a list of some the Irish educational facilities who accept the Duolingo English Test during the application progress for foreign candidates. These institutions had no knowledge of this alleged cheating ring: Dublin Business School, Dublin City University, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Maynooth University, National College of Art and Design, National College of Ireland, Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and University College Dublin. There are a further 60 educational facilities in Ireland that accept the Duolingo test. Investigations are ongoing. Gardai seized around 672,000 during the course of the search A man was arrested in Dublin after gardai seized almost 700,000 in cash on Tuesday morning. Gardai from the Donnybrook Community Engagement Area stopped a vehicle in the Mespil Road area of Dublin 4 yesterday around 10am. Approximately 672,000 in cash was seized during a search and the driver, a man in his late 30s, was arrested. He is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in Dublin. The search was conducted as part of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs by Cork County Divisional Drugs Unit based in Midleton and co-operation with the Serious Crime Unit based in Donnybrook, Dublin. A garda spokesperson said: Over 670,000 in cash was seized and one man was arrested in Dublin on Tuesday 20th February 2024 as part of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs in County Cork. Read more Man (30s) due in court after firearm discharged at gardai At approximately 10am, Gardai from the Donnybrook Community Engagement Area stopped a vehicle in the Mespil Road area of Dublin 4. Approximately 672,000 in cash was subsequently seized during the course of a search. The driver, a male in his late 30s, was arrested and is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in Dublin. This seizure is as a result of ongoing investigations into the sale and supply of controlled drugs by Cork County Divisional Drugs Unit based in Midleton and co-operation with the Serious Crime Unit based in Donnybrook, Dublin. Investigations are ongoing. Lola Bunny is now on the Kremlin's international wanted list Russia has reportedly launched an international manhunt for a Ukrainian OnlyFans model after she posed topless inside the Kremlin. The incident occurred in Red Square three years ago when 24-year-old blonde, Lolita Bogdanova, aka Lola Bunny, flashed for the camera. Lola Bunny is now on the Kremlin's international wanted list according to the Russian Interior Ministry, media outlet Readovka announced. The incident took place outside St Basil's Cathedral, one of Russia's most sacred places. Bogdanova apologised for any offence but said the footage had been filmed several years earlier, and she was not responsible for putting it online. Bogdanova signed an agreement not to leave Russia pending a full investigation and was not arrested, with clergymen reportedly demanding 'repentance'. Lola Bunny It is now being reported that the Onlyfans star is on the run - believed to be abroad. Bogdanova is said to be wanted 'under a criminal article', without an explanation of the precise accusation. Ms Bogdanova is originally from Makiivka, now in Russian occupied Ukraine. The model has been added to the wanted list as Putin continues his Presidential run over the country. Flash incident The autocratic move comes in the aftermath of the death of opposition figure, Alexei Navalny, four days ago. He died in a penal colony after taking a short walk in the cold. There are suspicions he was poisoned, after being targeted previously. On Monday, Navalnys wife, Yulia Navalnaya, vowed to continue her husband's fight against the Kremlin - and accused Mr Putin of killing the country's opposition leader in a powerful nine-minute video. In the video, published on YouTube and shared on X by Mr Navalny's official spokesperson Kira Yarmysh, she also alleged officials' refusal to hand over his body to his mother was part of a cover-up. "They are cowardly and meanly hiding his body, refusing to give it to his mother and lying miserably while waiting for the trace of" poison to disappear, Ms Navalnaya said. She suggested her husband might have been killed with a novichok-style nerve agent. The Kremlin has denied the allegations as "unfounded" and "insolent". Mr Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "These are absolutely unfounded, insolent accusations about the head of the Russian state." In her video statement, Ms Navalnaya said: "By killing Alexei, Putin killed half of me, half of my heart and half of my soul." "But I still have the other half, and it tells me that I have no right to give up. "I will continue the work of Alexei Navalny," she said Alan OBrien said anti-social behaviour is a day-to-day experience on the Luas. Abuse of public transport workers has gotten completely out of control over the past few years, a Luas ticket inspector has said. Alan OBrien said anti-social behaviour is a day-to-day experience on the Luas. All of my colleagues including myself have experienced anti-social behaviour, aggressive behaviour, assaults, threats of sexual violence. Its completely out of control over the last couple of years, he told Independent.ie. He recalled one incident where a group of men attacked him on the tram on New Years Eve two years ago. I was just going about my duties and I kind of got cornered on a Luas at OConnell Street by five men, he said. I was very badly assaulted. I got about 10 or 15 kicks in the head, about 30 or 40 kicks in the body. I picked up a long-term neck injury due to that assault but that wasnt the only way it affected me. It affected me mentally as well. Even to this day, Im still very, very wary about going about my duties". Alan said he took eight weeks off work to recover and was in a bad way for a long time. Describing another horrific incident, he said: A gentleman didnt have a ticket. I was just going through the process, and he just went completely aggressive and he basically said, F**k off away from me or Ill find out where you live and Ill rape your family and kill you. And that would be on the lower level of abuse that we take. He added that female colleagues endure the brunt of sexually abusive comments. Speaking to Newtalks Lunchtime Live yesterday, Alan admitted that it can be very difficult for him and his colleagues to be as professional as possible when these incidents unfold. People do put their hands on members of staff - in particular the ticket inspecting members of staff, he explained. Unfortunately, we just come across certain people who have no respect for frontline workers or transport workers. And it just starts from there. We do have a good support structure in place. The colleagues that I work with, they are the best in the world. So, when youre in your teams with your colleagues, you can feel safe. Its when you get separated - it can happen to anyone. Obviously, when youre confronted by an aggressive passenger, you can feel unsafe. The Luas inspector joined transport workers, including Dublin Bus drivers and Iarnrod Eireann inspectors, in Liberty Hall yesterday to recall some of their worst days on the job. Divisional organiser for their union Siptu, Adrian Kane, called on the Government to set up a dedicated transport police or a garda unit to cope with an anti-social behaviour epidemic. Labours transport spokesperson Duncan Smith said he had written to the Oireachtas Transport Committee seeking an urgent discussion of the concerning findings of a Siptu survey on transport workers safety It seems that violence and anti-social behaviour is now a daily part of the job, he said. The most outrageous example of this was during the Dublin riots last November. Despite this, Government have failed to step up and be on the side of our transport workers. Opinion articles written in the style of their author." These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. shall feature, along with the author's name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed Vladimir Putin has not altered the objectives he invoked to invade Ukraine but these, as he stated them, are riddled with ambiguities and do not constitute a list suitable for implementation. Ukraine, the United States and NATO countries could only meet the Russian presidents demands by fully submitting to his will, and Putins will is for the West to leave Ukraine at his mercy. Accepting this would be equivalent to a distribution of spheres of influence on the continent, reminiscent of the agreements reached by the victors of World War II in Yalta in 1945. In his recent interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson, Putin rhetorically asked why the United States insisted on helping a country as far away as Ukraine, having so many serious problems on its own borders. Wouldnt it be better to come to an agreement with Russia [...] understanding the situation that has arisen today, understanding that Russia will fight to the end for its interests? Putin noted. The idea that Russia can be defeated militarily is an illusion motivated by arrogance or naivety, but not by intelligence, the Russian leader stressed, and recommended that countries that advise Ukraine to fight to the end should make adjustments in their policies, given the impossibility of a strategic defeat of Russia. No, at the moment we have not achieved our goals, because one of the goals is denazification, Putin acknowledged to Carlson. Russian leaders treat the democratically elected Ukrainian leaders as neo-Nazis and accomplices of such, and it follows that denazification would imply forming a puppet government of Moscow in Kyiv. On February 24, 2022, when Russian tanks were already advancing through Ukraine, Putin mentioned the purposes of his offensive. In addition to denazification, he alluded to the defense of the inhabitants of Donbas from the genocide for which he blames Kyiv. He also made reference to the demilitarization of the country and the prosecution of those who committed numerous bloody crimes against peaceful citizens. The occupation of Ukrainian territories is not in our plans. We are not going to impose anything on anyone by force, Putin assured then. Today, Russia occupies almost 20% of the surface of Ukraine and has shielded itself from possible setbacks, mentioning in its constitution (as Russian territory) regions of Ukraine that it does not even control. In a draft agreement on security guarantees presented to the U.S. and NATO at the end of 2021, Moscow demanded that the Alliance commit to reducing its infrastructure and military potential in Europe to the level of 1997, that is, to the time before the addition of new members that were once allies of the USSR or a part of it. The document indicated that Putin wanted to review the expansions already carried out in addition to avoiding future ones. Two years later, Russia has nearly 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) more border with NATO (the length of the land and maritime border between Finland and Russia). The Kremlins policy is supported by an increasingly harsh repression apparatus. In March 2022, Russia introduced two new crimes into its penal code, namely hoaxes about the army (any statement that disagrees with the official position can be assessed as such) and discrediting state institutions (any criticism not accepted by the authorities). For hoaxes considered serious, up to 15 years in prison are contemplated. In Russian society, there are pockets and topics of dissatisfaction that manifest themselves punctually without articulating themselves into an alternative force. A recent example has been the multitude of people who in various Russian cities waited in the streets to support with their signature the candidacy for the presidency of Boris Nadezhdin, the only politician willing to campaign against the war in the elections next March. Nadezhdin has been rejected as a candidate by the central electoral commission, but the lines of citizens willing to endorse him were in themselves a brave demonstration against official militarism. Yevgeny Prigozhins mutiny and the march of his Wagner mercenaries towards Moscow also indicated dissatisfaction, although, in this case, in favor of a more effective imperial policy. By placing flowers in the snow in memory of Alexei Navalny, Russians rejected the brutality of the system embodied in a symbolic and defenseless character. However, the majority of society supports its president, who according to polls by the Levada center enjoys 80% approval among his fellow citizens. Russians (more than 70%) want peace in Ukraine, but their own kind of peace. Only a minority believes that the return of occupied lands is a preferable or acceptable condition for an agreement (22% are willing to return the territory in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson to Ukraine, and 16% are willing to return the self-proclaimed popular republics of Donetsk and Luhansk). Russian society is not yet ready for tangible compromise with Ukraine, say Denis Volkov and Andrei Kolesnikov in an analysis of opinion polls for the Carnegie International Endowment for Peace. After a long stagnation on the front, the advance of Russian troops is picking up and confronting seasoned Ukrainian fighters that are dependent on dwindling Western war supplies. The rulers willing to maintain military support for Ukraine (because they believe that Russia will not stop there) predominate in the West, where voices are also heard in favor of some ceasefire formula in which Moscow would retain de facto control of its conquests or part of them, while Ukraine would gain respite and security guarantees. The Ukrainian leaders absolutely refuse to give up territory, despite those who fear and warn that this option could be presented to them again in worse conditions in the near future. But can Vladimir Putin, who violated all signed agreements on respect for the borders and territorial integrity of Ukraine, offer them any guarantees? While desires and possibilities are being compared, the possible return to power of Donald Trump in the United States affects the future of Ukraine and the European allies, whom the former president has threatened to leave to their fate. Putin wants exactly that, and that is why his stated preference for Joe Biden is implausible and, in the opinion of veteran North American diplomatic sources, it could be a smokescreen to better damage the Democratic politicians campaign. If a ceasefire were reached with a formula similar to the partition of Korea or the coexistence between the two German states during the Cold War, what would relations with Russia be like again? Would the sanctions be lifted? Would those annual political-tourist summits between Putin and EU leaders be resumed? Would war criminals get away with it? Does being realistic today in Europe mean accepting irremediable weakness vis-a-vis Russia? The character of Russia, as a nuclear power and due to Putins geostrategic vision, conditions the solutions to the bloody conflict in Ukraine. Perceptions of danger in the face of Russian threats to use nuclear weapons fluctuate in the West. An advance by Ukraine beyond what Russia considers its red lines increases the perception of danger. And conversely, Russian conventional successes diminish that perception. Recently, Putin expressed understanding for Hitler and his invasion of Poland in 1939. By not wanting to hand over the Gdansk corridor to him, the Poles overplayed their game and forced Hitler to start World War II for them, he explained in his interview with Carlson. Poland turned out to be intractable and Hitler had no other option when it came to putting his plans into practice than to start precisely with Poland, stated the Russian leader. He fell from a height of 15 metres. The tourist was carried from the mountains on a stretcher. Photo: El Pinguino An Irish tourist was left with serious injuries after falling off a hiking trail in Chile on Sunday. James Joseph was walking along the British Trail in Torres del Paine National Park, near Puerto Natales, on Sunday, February 18, when strong winds blew him off the slippery path. According to El Pinguino, he fell from a height of 15 metres, suffering significant blood loss and injuries to his skull. Police were alerted to the incident shortly afterwards, and Lieutenant Jaime Barria Foitzick coordinated with Chiles National Forest Corporation (CONAF) to organise a rescue operation with its specialised mountain patrol. Lieutenant Barria explained that personnel from the Second Police Station of Puerto Natales were contacted by phone about an accident in the Torres del Paine where an adult of foreign nationality had suffered a fall from more than 15 meters. Mr Joseph was observed with deep wounds and was carried from the scene on a stretcher. Due to the severity of the injuries, he had to be evacuated to the nearby Punta Arenas. His condition has been described as extremely serious. CONAF and Carabineros (Chilean national police) have recorded nine rescues in January and February of this year so far, a considerably large figure when compared with last year. There were 14 evacuation operations in total in 2023, with two deaths recorded in January. Many of these rescues have involved falls and/or limb injuries. Police and mountain rescue teams have advised tourists to be prepared before hiking in national parks. Physical fitness training prior to the expedition is advised, as well as geographical knowledge of the area being explored, paying attention to weather patterns, and having appropriate gear and a sufficient first aid kit. Tributes has poured in for the colourful former hotelier, who was once proprietor of the Ashford Court in Ennis A Co Galway developer who was at the centre of a legal battle over an unusual castle has died. Colourful Tom Mannion (65) died in Galway University Hospital on Tuesday of last week following a sudden illness. He was laid to rest last Saturday following a funeral mass in Athlone. Tributes has poured in for the colourful former hotelier, who was once proprietor of the Ashford Court in Ennis and also worked in the Ashford Manor guest house in Galway. "Tom was a real Gentleman to me and will never be forgotten, wrote one sympathiser on RIP.ie Another said: I got to know Tom when I worked in Ashford Manor College Rd. He was a gentle giant with a very pleasant manner always willing to help. May his gentle soul rest in peace . A third person recalled: I only met him once in his hotel in Ennis, we got chatting when we checked in chatted for almost an hour. When we went to check out he wouldnt take any money. A great character. And a fourth person remarked :My deepest sympathy to all Toms family and friend, I was very lucky to work with him in Ashford Court and meet his wonderful children who he truly adored, he was a lovely lovely man and it was a great honour to call him a friend. Originally from Ballylion, Curraghboy, Co Roscommon, Mannion was the owner of Galway Castle in Doughiska, Co Galway, a 547sq metre property he built and he turned into his family home. Tom Mannion He initially had plans to develop a medieval village as a tourist attraction in the courtyard of the 110-window castle, built with imported Italian marble and a team of builders. Galway City Council said his proposed home was unusual but later gave planning permission for the limestone-fronted castle in 2000. The centrepiece of the next phase of the development in Doughiska, east of Galway city, was to be a town hall he wanted to make available for people fundraising for charitable causes. His dream turned into a nightmare though when Bank of Scotland (Ireland) (BoSI) obtained a possession order on the partly finished castle in 2009 over his unpaid debts. Mannion, who sold the Ashford Court for circa 3 million, insisted the possession order was improperly obtained and his former solicitor wrongly consented to his family home being offered to satisfy debts. He continued living in the castle even as BoSI sold its interest in the building to Feniton, a vulture fund set up by US fund CarVal. Mannion was evicted on April 6, 2017, after security staff working for Fenitons receivers KPMG barred the gate to the property. They told him from the top of the 3.5-metre walls that he could not enter. Feniton then sold the castle to Ardan Opportunities, a mysterious company that declined to disclose who owns it. The figure involved was believed to have been around 600,000. On the morning of January 28, 2019, accompanied by his friend and anti-eviction campaigner Dan Lannon, Mannion retook part of the castle by walking in and waking the caretaker Aleksander Garzila from his sleep. Mannion then lived in the west wing where he had access to the small internal chapel, while the caretaker lived in the east wing. Despite gardai being called initially, the new owners Ardan did not prevent Mannion from coming and going but sued to bar him permanently from the castle. In August 2022 Mr Justice Conor Dignam heard the final three days of a five-day hearing. Ardan wanted an aggravated trespassing finding against Mannion and an injunction to stop him re-entering the castle or slandering its title, but it was not pursuing damages. Although Mannion insisted Ardan obtained his castle through fraud, the only part of Mannion's counter-action allowed by the judge was a claim for 250,000 in compensation for the damage and disappearance of his property in the castle. Artwork, crystal, clothes, white goods and jewellery have either disappeared or been damaged since his eviction. Anthony McBride SC, for Ardan, told the High Court he had a great deal of sympathy for Mannion who had been through a traumatic time. McBride said Mannion was clearly a man of deep faith and not given to violence. However, he cannot get it into his head that he is no longer the owner of the property", McBride added. In his evidence, Mannion said he was shocked at the state of his possessions when he entered the castle. He said he was upset to find his daughters communion dress and inscribed prayer books given to him by his mother had been burnt. He decided to re-enter after his neighbours told him that wild parties were being held in the castle. He claimed he found evidence that there were up to 10 people sleeping on the ground in one room and a heap of razor blades for chopping stuff up. Mannion said while some people could have a shed as a home, he decided to build his home a little bit different. I was able to build a castle nice and handy in my own time and it was a great accomplishment for myself, he said. I had loads of plans but theres no point talking to anyone. I was there to help people and I helped the homeless and now Im homeless myself. Mannions side subpoenaed three former or current directors of Ardan as witnesses. All three said they did not know who the ultimate owner of the company was. Mr Justice Dignam reserved judgment in the case. Mannion tearfully said afterwards he was happy he fought the case because of the evidence that emerged. He said he knew of others who lost their homes during the economic crash and had died by suicide without challenging the banks or vulture funds. Mannion was predeceased by his parents Patrick and Winifred, his brother Ollie and his brother-in-law, Tom Corcoran. His death notice on RIP.ie reads: Tom will be sadly missed by his loving children Steven, Katie and Scott, his brothers Bertie (Whitepark, Curraghboy) and Dermot (UK), his sisters Mary Corcoran (Ballyleague) and Martina OGrady (Curraghboy), sister-in-law Kathleen, brother-in-law Brendan, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, relatives and a wide circle of friends. As well as his friends from Ashford Court Boutique Hotel Ennis and his former colleagues of Kepak Athleague." The government's crackdown on welfare recipients will directly affect young people experiencing homelessness, a youth development advocate says. The Ministry of Social Development will begin "work check-ins" for jobseekers who have been on a benefit for at least six months, "particularly young people" to "make sure job seeker beneficiaries are taking appropriate steps to find employment and are receiving the right help". Kick Back youth development director Aaron Hendry says intensifying sanctions for young people would result in greater risks for those experiencing homelessness. "We are particularly concerned about our young people who are currently experiencing homelessness. "What these young people are going through is already traumatic. "They are living impossibly difficult lives and are often just trying to survive day by day." Aaron says the application of sanctions for vulnerable young people could drive them further away from the support and services they need. "Young people on the benefit have often experienced trauma, are dealing with poverty, mental illness, addiction, and lack much needed community and parental support. "More pressure and tougher sanctions risk pushing already vulnerable young people further away from the support they need, increasing the risks of homelessness, suicide, and leading to further marginalisation and desperation and for some pushing them towards crime and addiction as they search for a way to survive." Kick Back young leader Harema says a tougher approach could affect the mental health of young vulnerable people. "When you're already struggling, experiencing homelessness, have little family support, and then add more weight to that, the result is a person's mental health breaking down. "[These government systems] have a lack of understanding around mental health." Ben*, 19, has lived on the streets and experienced the welfare system. He says tougher sanctions would punish young people and would not be effective in the long run. "[This approach] will result in more crime, more chaos, more drug abuse, more people needing to survive. "Supporting young people who don't have family support, providing the resources they need so they can survive, that's one of the most important things a society can do with their money." Aaron says sanctions were a blunt instrument trying to solve a complex set of problems. "Young people accessing welfare require love, not punishment. "They require safe housing, good food, access to physical and mental health support, community, and access to opportunities." Youth advocates feared the government's approach failed to understand the complex challenges young people were facing, he says. "We can't simply come down on these young people, demanding personal responsibility of young people who have already been made highly vulnerable by our society, and as a result are suffering due to homelessness, poverty and mental illness, while at the same time ignoring our collective responsibility to care for, love, and support these kids. "If we do, we risk causing greater suffering and pushing our young people further to the margins. "And to be honest, these kids are already pretty far out there, there's only so far you can push before they fall off the other side." National's deputy leader and Minister of Finance Nicola Willis told First Up they were seeing tens of thousands of more people on the Jobseeker benefit, while there are lots of job vacancies. "We're very happy to be there for you need a welfare benefit, but we've got some expectations of you, too. "You need need to turn up to interviews, you need to be work ready, if there is a job on offer you have to take it, and if you don't do your part of the bargain, you don't meet your obligations, then we will reserve the right to reduce your benefit payment." She says, while there are rights, there are also responsibilities. "We don't think it's actually a life for anyone to condemn them to long-term welfare dependency when they could - and should - be working." *Name changed to protect privacy. - RNZ / Rayssa Almeida The majority of New Zealanders are concerned about the future use of artificial intelligence, a new study shows. The annual research commissioned by InternetNZ surveyed just over 1000 people online on their awareness, feelings, and concerns about the developing technology. It showed 72 per cent of people were concerned it would be used for malicious purposes and without regulation. A total of 42 per cent of those surveyed say they are more concerned than excited about it, with 11 per cent feeling more excited than concerned. InternetNZ chief executive Vivien Maidaborn says the internet evolved at a rate that could be hard to keep up with, and it would keep presenting new challenges, like AI. "We need our government to be thinking about what guidelines, policies, and laws are required to keep us on the cutting edge." The research also found the majority of New Zealanders admitted to not knowing a lot about AI, with 63 per cent having says they only know 'a little' and 13 per cent indicated they know nothing at all. Vivien thought it was not surprising that there was fear around the technology. "We're new to understanding what AI is and what it really means for us. "The level of concern that New Zealanders are expressing is a responsible and reasonable reaction." The report was done by research company Verian and also surveyed New Zealanders on a range of other internet-related questions. It found more than a quarter of New Zealanders spend five hours or more on the internet for personal use and that 80 per cent think the positives of the internet outweighed the negatives. It also found one in five people says they have personally experienced online harm or harassment. - RNZ Police now have two years worth of data on the types of hate incidents reported across New Zealand - including regional breakdowns and the demographics targeted. But it's unclear when the country will make hate crimes a standalone offence, nearly five years on from the Christchurch terror attacks. The number of hate incidents reported to police has increased by 12 per cent between 2022 and 2023. Race-motivated abuse made up 83 pe rcent of all complaints over the past two years, followed by incidents targeting people's sexual orientation (9.7 per cent), and those targeting people of a certain faith (5.8 per cent). Of the 9351 hate incidents reported between January 2022 and January 2024, more than a third targeted people of Asian descent, followed by 8.9 per cent aimed at people of colour and 7.2 per cent targeting Maori. Auckland had more than 3700 cases reported, the highest among all major centres, followed by Canterbury and Wellington, both with about 1100 incidents reported. The data comes from 2.5 years of the Te Raranga initiative - a four-year police programme to set up a system of recording hate crimes and improve support to victims. The initiative stemmed from a recommendation from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch terror attacks. Picking the threats to report Meanwhile, victims continue to feel vulnerable to abuse in the absence of legal protections from hate-motivated incidents. Rizwaana Latiff - who is of South Asian and African descent, and of Islamic faith - says she frequently experiences racist abuse and that it comes down to a matter of picking her "battles" in terms of reporting it to the police. She was recently verbally abused by a man at a swimming pool in Hastings who said he didn't want to share a pool with someone of her skin colour, and shouted "f***ing b***, black b****" at her. Latiff says she experienced racist threats when she ran in the local elections in Hastings last year - including "terrorist" spray painted over her campaign billboards, and threatening notes in her letterbox. 'They were like 'you're coming here, you're taking our jobs'and they said something about my name, and they said that I was just a piece of black s***," she says. Latiff has reported some of the incidents to the police, but she questions what actions police can take other than recording the complaint. She says she would like to see more ethnic liaison officers in the regions. Currently, hate can be considered as an aggravating factor in sentencing, but it is not a standalone offence. The Royal Commission of Inquiry(RCOI) into the March 15 terror attacks had recommended the government to create a separate hate crime offence. In March last year, the ministerial advisory group monitoring the response to the Commission's recommendations - Kapuia - wrote to the then Justice Minister Andrew Little, expressing "deep concerns" about the speed of the government's response to RCOI's recommendations relating to hate speech, incitement and hate crime. 'Serious attempt' needed to ensure speedy passage of legislation Kapuia chairperson Arihia Bennett says she's "deeply disappointed" that the government has referred some of this important work to the Law Commission. Bennett says they have passed on their advice to the new lead minister for the Royal Commission of Inquiry Response Judith Collins, but have not heard back yet. Kapuia chairperson Arihia Bennett. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon. Kapuia chairperson Arihia Bennett. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon. Meanwhile, former Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon says he want the new government to prioritise the legal reforms in hate crimes and hate speech. "I would encourage the new Minister of Justice to actually make a serious attempt to ensure legislation is put in as soon as possible," he says. Foon is calling for more accessible channels for reporting of hate incidents. "I definitely believe that there should be more publicity and communications with our communities in terms of reporting these things separately and making it easy," he says. He is also encouraging more people to report their experiences of hate and prejudice. "The more information we have, the more effective and efficient, that will inform legislation going forward and how the courts will deal with it," he says. When asked about the government's plans for implementing hate crime and hate speech laws, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said in a statement: "The government is currently focused on its 100-day plan and coalition commitments around restoring justice. All other potential work items will have to considered in due course." Minister Judith Collins says she will be meeting with Kapuia to hear their concerns. But she saiysthe coalition agreement with New Zealand First includes a policy to stop the work on reforming the hate speech legislation. Police Minister Mark Mitchell says he will support initiatives by police to reduce the number of hate incidents. However, the minister would not comment on the latest data on hate incidents and Asian communities being overwhelming targeted, saying these matters are "operational". He also would not comment on the progress of the Te Raranga programme to date, and whether it is on track to meeting its targets. -Lucy Xia/RNZ. Tauranga is set to host its inaugural DayBreak Festival of Innovation throughout March, marking a significant milestone in the citys journey towards becoming New Zealands destination for creativity, inspiration and collaboration. DayBreak is a reimagination of the Groundswell Festival, led by Priority One and involving more than 30 local partners and sponsors to design and deliver the Festival programme. Set in the heart of Taurangas CBD, DayBreak will celebrate and inspire innovators and creators from across a myriad of sectors whilst activating the city centre. Priority One innovation manaher Shane Stuart says that a key feature driving highly innovative cities and regions is the flow of knowledge that happens through people connecting, moving and building relationships and networks. DayBreak is all about finding pathways for these kinds of knowledge flows, in a manner that works for our region. The festival comprises three events, including a two-day innovation summit, a celebration evening and a range of free community events based in and around Taurangas CBD throughout the month of March. The innovation summit is being held March 7-8 , with 22 sessions taking place across 18 Tauranga CBD locations and more than 30 guest speakers talking about a diverse range of original and innovative topics. Attendees can expect a mix of plenary sessions, interactive workshops, field trips and endless networking opportunities. The innovation summit offers individuals and teams amazing value and high-quality professional development opportunities. The beauty is that you can select the sessions that interest you and your team the most, says Shane. Craigs Investment Partners general manager Hayley Nelson says they are excited to be hosting several sessions during DayBreak Summit. Fostering innovation and finding meaningful ways to collaborate is important to our city. Weve gone through a lot of growth and its not stopping anytime soon, so innovation will be key in the years to come. We are really looking forward to hosting sessions throughout the DayBreak Summit in the Innovation and Marketing section, and a breakout session on Sustainability, says Hayley. The DayBreak Summit concludes with a celebration evening on March 8. Its an opportunity to come together after the summit and celebrate innovation and creativity in a surprising, multi-sensory and interactive way. Featuring music by Laughton Kora, art by Isaac Weston combined with culinary delights, robots and more. The DayBreak celebration is a great way to wrap up the festival and connect with Taurangas business, innovation and creative communities, says Shane. The community events are designed so that anyone in Tauranga can get involved and include fascinating sessions on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Marine Science, Robotics, Entrepreneurship, and Design Thinking, all based in and around Taurangas CBD. Theyre mostly free and provide a fun opportunity for people of all ages to learn, be inspired and interact with some of the regions best scientists, investors and entrepreneurs, says Shane. Trimax Mowing Systems CEO Mike Sievwright says that theyre proud to be sponsoring an event that celebrates and fosters innovation in Tauranga. Its all about showcasing opportunities and igniting inspiration for the people working here, and also to the youth in the area. Its so important that we can grow people through education, and then have those opportunities in the workforce too so they can stay in the Bay of Plenty. The networking opportunities will also be fantastic; I have no doubt everyone in the room will learn something from each other, Shane says this is just the beginning for DayBreak. The future of DayBreak is exciting; we expect it to be a permanent event in Taurangas calendar, with the potential to get bigger and better each year with opportunities to showcase innovation and creativity across multiple sectors. Were delighted that so many local businesses have come on board, including Tauranga City Council, Tauranga Western Bay of Plenty Community Event Fund, TechStep, Aurecon, Craigs Investment Partners, Lawvu, Sharp Tudhope Lawyers, Trimax Mowing Systems, Zespri and many others! For more information and to secure tickets, visit www.daybreakfestival.nz. Ten lucky Lotto players, including two in the Bay of Plenty, will be pinching themselves after each winning $20,040 with Lotto Second Division in Wednesday nights live Lotto draw. Two lucky players also won Powerball Second Division, taking their total winnings to $26,274, says a Lotto spokesperson. "The winning Powerball Second Division tickets were sold on MyLotto to players from the North Shore and Wellington" The winning Second Division tickets were sold at the following stores: Store Location MyLotto (+PB) North Shore Rocket Superette Mt Albert MyLotto (x2) Auckland MyLotto (+PB) Manukau Pak N Save Papakura Takanini Cherrywood Lotto & Book Shop Otumoetai MyLotto Bay of Plenty MyLotto Horowhenua MyLotto Wellington "Anyone who bought their ticket from any of the above stores should check their ticket as soon as possible in-store, on MyLotto, or through the MyLotto App. "Lotto NZ exists to return 100 per cent of its profits to Kiwi communities through lottery grants programmes run by Te Puna Tahua NZ Lottery Grants Board." Winds will be light for most places today with high pressure covering New Zealand, predicts WeatherWatch.co.nz "Some wet weather will linger around Bay of Plenty and drifts westwards slowly, so a few showers may develop into Waikato too," says the weather organisation in its latest update. "Otherwise, NZ is dry with a cooler start to the day for many and then a mild to hot afternoon. "Tomorrow (Friday) the high moves east of NZ and this keeps some wet weather stuck in the same part of the North Island (mostly Bay of Plenty). "Track on rain radar today and tomorrow, along with our hourly forecast data, so you can monitor it accurately. A few showers may also form around Coromandel Peninsula along with cloudy conditions in the east. "As the high shifts east, a hotter norwest flow comes in behind it starting in the lower South Island on Thursday and increasing on Friday." Maps powered by Weatherzone, created by WeatherWatch. DALTON--A new business has recently started in Dalton, run by a longtime resident using his skill with computers and technology to provide low-cost solutions to local residents in need of technical help. Sam Wilkins is the man behind Wilkins Solutions, and he is all about helping people fix their computer and internet issues in a quick and affordable way. Wilkins is a 1999 graduate of Lodgepole High School, and was an outstanding athlete in high school, winning a state title in Triple Jump. He says although many issues that people have can be fixed remotely, his most popular service is the house call. The benefit is that he can see the entire set up somebody is using, and identify problems such as connectivity and wiring issues that may not be apparent on a remote call. Wilkins says he offers the lowest prices for technical help in the area, and has all types of certifications in various computer disciplines, and is familiar with pretty much any type of set up. Wilkins says he specializes in helping people over 45 years old, to get them back up and running quickly. He also specializes in helping younger people that occasionally get themselves in over their heads trying to fix or modify a computer, and need help. His target area is Sidney and Cheyenne County, and out to Chappell and Kimball. He does not service Colorado. For more information or to schedule service, call 308-884-2941 or visit https://wilkins.solutions.com Charlotte Ann Lodes, 92, passed away on February 10,2024 in Ridgway, Colorado, at the home of her daughter, Kristi, surrounded by many of her loved ones. Charlotte was born in Mitchell, Nebraska on November 27,1931 to Horace (Jeff) and Thelma Blackburn. She grew up on her family's farm outside of Mitchell and graduated from Liberty High School. She went on to earn her Registered Nurse degree from Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. She made several lifetime friends there and she loved playing volleyball, going to the movies, and dancing. After leaving WNCC, she did an affiliation with the Methodist Hospital in Denver, Colorado. She met her husband of 71 years, James D. Lodes in Scottsbluff on a night out with the girls. They were married on April 6, 1953. They went on to live in Arizona, Colorado, and Nebraska before settling down in Sidney, Nebraska where they raised four children and were blessed with four grandchildren. Charlotte began her career as an RN in Sidney, working at Sidney Memorial Hospital for many years until she resigned to work for Dr.'s Cutright, Cornellius, and Akerson part time. While raising four children and eventually enjoying her grandchildren, Hayden, Cody, Olyvia, and Evan, who all knew her to be Gaga. She enjoyed spending time with her friends, attending the 30/30 club dinners and dancing, bridge club, playing the piano, and spending time with her children and grandchildren, who were the greatest blessings of her life. Charlotte is survived by her children, son Gene Lodes (Angie Pethound), daughters Lori Nicholson (Jerry Nicholson), Kristi Meyer (Troy Meyer), and Teri Frerichs (Trevor Frerichs), grandsons Hayden Frerichs, Cody Frerichs, and Evan Nicholson (Stephanie Nicholson), and granddaughter Olyvia Frerichs. She followed her husband Jim after only three months into the hands of Our beloved Father in Heaven. Our Mom and Gaga will be missed for her special laughter and beautiful smile. She has left us with a plethora of memories that we will cherish daily and hold in our hearts forever. Her frequent words of "good water" will always make us laugh. Rest in peace, Mom/Gaga. Be with God. Crippin Funeral Home is assisting Mrs. Lodes family. Anastasia, 11, has just put the final touches on a drawing on a cardboard box. I used green because it represents life, nature, and white because it represents spirit and freedom, says the student from Lyceum No. 15 in Chernihiv, in the north of Ukraine, just a stones throw away from Ukraines border with Belarus and Russia. When describing her art, Anastasia radiates maturity beyond her age, but her reflections dont stop there. She lives in one of the first regions to be attacked by Moscow when it launched its offensive in February 2022. Even today, Chernihiv is a regular target of Russias deadly bombing. War is something that destroys, she says from the Chernihiv Palace of Culture. This helps ease my mind because it is difficult to endure. Her childhood, Ukraines childhood, is hurt and seriously so. And that requires a response. Along with Anastasia, about 20 children between the ages of 11 and 12 are taking part in a class run by the Dobrodiiv Club Foundation in the social center, a symbol of the old Soviet cultural identity. The goal of the class is to offer a safe space for socio-emotional support to minors affected by the war. Anastasia explains it better. It helps the group develop, she says. It is an extra activity that allows us to spend time together. The children gather their painted boxes to form a cardboard tree on the ground. Helping the students is Tetiana Yefimenko, 36, dressed in a white coat. Each child feels like they are part of Ukraine, she explains, the puzzle will not be completed if one of them is missing. The session aims to bring the children together, but also to allow them to express themselves and relate like children. It is important in times of war, adds Angelina Fedoriy, 25, a collaborator on the project, it gets them very involved. According to a 2023 report by Dobrodiiv Club and the organization Plan International, almost 40% of teenagers fear for their life and health, as well as that of their loved ones, because of the war in Ukraine. The survey which interviewed youngsters between 13 and 19 years of age found that 87% of respondents had experienced the greatest changes they remember due to the Russian invasion. But nine out of 10 nearly all the respondents said they wanted to help in the rebuilding of Ukraine. Indeed, since the start of the conflict, many youngsters have played a role through volunteering, which also serves as therapy. The report came to two conclusions: minors are very vulnerable victims of the conflict, but also key actors in the countrys defense. Kids are still kids, and drawing continues to channel their childhood. Milana, 12, says a South Korean music band called Black Pink is the inspiration of her work. Thats why, she says very seriously pushing aside a friend who is bothering her her picture on the cardboard box uses the colors black and pink. I had a good time, I dont know how to draw, she admits openly, and it seems that I have learned something. As for the war, its pushed to the sidelines. This helps us, Id forgotten it during this time. She admits she doesnt like talking about the war, and changes the subject. A group of students from Chernihiv Lyceum No. 15, during a session of the Club Dobrodiiv foundation. Oscar Gutierrez The results of the Dobrodiiv Club study led the foundation to open spaces in cities such as Chernihiv and Mykolaiv, in the south, and Kyiv, the capital. Since October, thousands of children have taken part in their activities. UNICEF, the U.N. childrens fund, estimates that around 1.5 million children in Ukraine are at risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder 26%, according to U.N. data and other mental health problems. The reasons seem clear: violence, displacement from their homes and social upheaval (education, health, living conditions...) which, in the end, destroy one of the hallmarks of childhood, the feeling of being protected. Plan International, which has worked with more than 250,000 Ukrainian minors, warns of the wars impact on childrens mental health: Many have a very high sensitivity to loud sounds, insomnia, fear of leaving the house due to landmines and attacks, constant stress and anguish about family and friends who are on the front and adaptation problems in host countries. In a report published by Plan International last summer, minors and young people expressed the need for free psychosocial support services. The U.N. is already working with the Ukrainian Ministry of Education and Science to improve mental health in classrooms through different projects, including training up to 15,000 psychologists during this school year. There are more initiatives, such as the How Are You? program launched by Olena Zelenska, wife of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, as well as hotlines run by the organizations such as La Strada, Voice of Children and Teenergizer. Artem, 12, is a little more shy than his classmates in this classroom at the Chernihiv Palace of Culture. In general, the boys are more distracted than the girls. As soon as they feel that their work is finished, they pick up their cellphone to play video games. In Artems picture, you can see the outline of something that looks like a mountain range. I draw this, he says, because I would like to go to the mountains. Up until then, he sounds like a child, but then comes the preteen from an invaded country. This is how we love our country more; it is desire and love for freedom. Ukraine cares about us, for us to develop and find a calling. Death toll Artem is timid, but he admits that sometimes he talks to his friends about the war and that it sometimes scares them. With good reason. According to the latest figure from the Ukrainian Prosecutor Generals Office, 526 children have died due to the Russian invasion. And another 1,200 have been injured. In each of its updates, the office warns that the figures are provisional because it does not have detailed information on the victims in occupied or disputed territory. The United Nations mission in Ukraine raises the number of children killed to 579, most between the ages of 12 and 17. In Chernihiv, a city with more than 10 centuries of history, which was home to 285,000 inhabitants before the war, hundreds of minors have been killed or injured since February 24, 2022. The most recent victim was six-year-old Sofia. She died on August 19 after a Russian missile struck Taras Shevchenko theater, which is located in an open square in the center of the city. Some believe the target of the attack was a small drone fair that was being held that day, albeit discreetly. Attacks like the one in August mean that even a help session for minors is treated with great caution. Zlata is 12 years old. She was taking drawing classes before the Russian invasion, but with the war she had to stop. She moved with her family to Ivano-Frankivsk, in the southwest of the country. They returned to Chernihiv last summer. While she is chatting, Zhenia, 11, and Veronika, 12, come up to her. The three girls share that its not normal for children their age to be experiencing something like this. It has a big effect on our psychological state, says Zlata. The situation is so terrifying, it can bring tears to their eyes. Especially when there are explosions, she continues. Thats understandable. Whats less understandable is what Veronika shared. She lived in an occupied area and was upset that there were people who believed that nothing was happening. They thought that it wasnt so terrible, she says. That has also been changing. But at the end of the day, they are children, and they can find the positive in anything. Zlata grabs Zhenia before leaving. At least thanks to this, we have met, she tells her. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition David (Dave) Kalb, 81, of Chappell went to be with the Lord on Friday morning, February 16, 2024, with his loving wife by his side. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, February 22, 2024 at the Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home in Chappell with Pastor Rich Graeff officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in the Chappell City Cemetery. Visitation will be held 3:00 to 5:00 Wednesday at the funeral home. Holechek-Bondegard Funeral Home in Chappell is serving the Kalb family. Family and friends can leave condolences at http://www.bondegardfunerals.com. Dave was the only child born on July 17, 1942, to the late Harold and Illene (Kasparek) Kalb. He grew up on a farm in Chappell where he learned to ride horses (which were not his favorite thing), farming of various crops, and ranch. Dave graduated from Chappell High School and went to college for two years. Returning to the family farm. A few years later, in his early twenties, he honorably served in the Nebraskan Army National Guard for six years in Ogallala,1st Battalion, 168th Field Artillery. He achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class while he performed duties as the Chief of Firing Battery. After his service, Dave went into trucking and drove grain trucks, but his love of hauling cattle became his career for many years all over the United States. His last and favorite truck was a beautiful Peterbilt, that he called Rosie!!! Dave had a very adventurous life. For anyone that knew him he had plenty of stories to tell on any given day. He loved telling stories of his adventures as a truck driver. He proudly displayed a large map of the United States in his shop with push pins in every city he had visited while driving. Many of his stories were followed by a lot of laughter as they were always entertaining, and some were more colorful than others. When it came to farming, he was always very proud of the work he did and if you drove by one of his fields you knew it was his because of the straight lines and no weeds. He was a perfectionist in many ways even when it came to removing snow from his neighbor's driveways. He was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need. At the end of a very hard day's work, it usually ended with an ice-cold beer and conversation on what needs to be taken care of next. His love for dogs was unmatched. He and his faithful companion, Annie could be seen out for a morning or evening drive on their UTV. Dave is survived by his wife Mary; sons, Matt (Karen) Kalb of Chappell, Adam Kalb of Lodgepole, Jay (Laura) Weeter of Sioux City, IA, Dustin (Cristina) Weeter of Omaha, NE and daughter, Mindy (Justin) Crossland of Yuma, CO; 9 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and his beloved canine companion, Annie. The family would like to invite you join them for Lunch at the Chappell Fire Hall after the services. EP Wednesday, 21 February 2024, 22:22 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The National Police in Seville have reported details of an operation which resulted in the release of 21 victims of farm labour exploitation and the arrest of 15 alleged perpetrators of human trafficking. According to the National Police, the suspects, "did not allow the victims to drink or eat during the working day in agricultural areas, despite the high temperatures and the physical work they had to do, and one of the victims, who was pregnant [and underage], suffered a miscarriage due to their exploitation". Antonio M. Romero Wednesday, 21 February 2024, 22:12 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The PSOE in the Diputacion, Malaga's provincial authority, has stood up to the government and voted on Wednesday morning in favour of an urgent motion by the PP which proposes the temporary suspension of the toll on the Costa del Sol motorway (AP-7) until the coastal trainline is extended to Marbella and Estepona. Following an amendment, tabled by the local Socialists, the Spanish government run by their own party is called on to take on the cost of waiving the fee. The support of the Socialists at the February meeting of the Diputacion comes after the government and the PSOE leadership in Malaga criticised this proposal when it was presented by the provincial president of the PP, Patricia Navarro, on 8 February. The following day, the governments deputy prime minister, Maria Jesus Montero, accused the PP of seeking "confrontation" with the request to suspend the toll, while the leader of the Malaga socialists, Dani Perez, urged the PP "not to deceive the people and not to be populist" and lamented that the PP "only think of opening up tolls when they are not in government". The PSOE said that the Socialists have maintained their position on the improvement of mobility on the coast recalling that in 2017 the PP in the Diputacion voted against an initiative of the PSOE which called for the opening of the toll road in case of accidents on the motorway like the one that occurred in February of that year and collapsed the A-7 for 14 hours. "We will always defend and support what is best for Malaga, whoever governs in Madrid," said PSOE spokesperson Josele Gonzalez, who added: "We are consistent. We have supported these proposals when the PP was in government and we do so now that the PSOE is in government. We have supported these projects as mayors, myself when I was mayor of Mijas and Pepe Bernal when he was mayor of Marbella, and we do so now that we are in opposition." The Socialist spokesman said that the PP "is not coherent" because "depending on the colour of the central government it votes for one thing or another. We also see this when we bring initiatives to improve health or education in the province. The PP always votes against. It does not want to inconvenience [PP Andalusian president] Moreno Bonilla, in the same way that it did not want to before with Rajoy". The president of the Diputacion, Francisco Salado, stressed that today is "an important day" for Malaga province and asked the government for a solution to "one of the priority problems that must be solved in Malaga such as mobility and the lack of rail infrastructure to connect the entire Costa del Sol and the Campo de Gibraltar and not slow the economic growth of the province and Andalucia". The motion was approved unanimously by the four groups represented in the plenary session of the Diputacion (PP, PSOE, Vox and Con Malaga). The agreement demanded that the government put into play "all its capacity" to implement a railway infrastructure that connects the most populated towns of the Costa del Sol and reaches the Campo de Gibraltar and that until the train reaches Marbella and Estepona, the toll on the motorway be temporarily suspended, and that the government must take on "the cost of this suspension". The motion also asks the government to explain what has happened to the 8.4 million euros budgeted over the last ten years to carry out studies on this train and what has been done with the document presented by the former PP minister of Public Works, Inigo de la Serna, in January 2018. In addition, an amendment by the PSOE has been included in which the government is asked to promote a "more updated study to develop the Andalusian Mediterranean train". Con Malaga also asked the Junta to develop the resolution, proposed by the group Por Andalucia, where the government is asked to transfer the railway competences in the region "as long as the government ensures the completion of the railway network including the Andalusian Mediterranean train to the Campo de Gibraltar and the transfers, prior to assuming such competences". J.M.L. Guadalajara Wednesday, 21 February 2024, 20:21 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram The first Spaniard to be vaccinated against Covid-19 has turned 100 years old. Araceli Hidalgo, from Guadix, Granada, celebrated the milestone on 20 February 1924, more than three years after she made the headlines. Araceli still lives in the same Guadalajara nursing home where she was inoculated with the vaccine on 27 December 2020. She was enthusiastic and courageous at the time. On her centenary, this Tuesday, the nursing home organised a birthday party for her, attended by many of her relatives she has two children, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren along with her sister Lola, 90, and received a bouquet of flowers sent by the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha. "I feel like I'm 20 years old," Araceli said when asked about her feelings on turning 100. Her words were not in vain, as she is in great health. Her secret? "Living calmly, doing sport, going to the gym and not stopping and, if it comes up, going to the dance even though I can't move my feet much," Araceli said. Her only living sister, Lola, (Araceli comes from a family of 20 siblings) was in charge of doing Araceli's make-up; she has not lost her coquetry despite her age. Lola joked, "I have less years left to reach 100," and Araceli replied, "We'll see if you make it! More than three years ago, the centenarian became a symbol of the fight against a virus that has claimed thousands of victims in Spain. Of that first vaccination, Araceli recalled that "everything went well, I didn't feel anything and afterwards I was fine". The director of the nursing home, Marta Gonzalez, did not spare any praise for her admirable resident during the birthday party: "She encouraged vaccination and today she is a very emblematic figure of this centre and an example of how to take care of our elderly and how to invest in active ageing." Araceli Hidalgo not only received congratulations from her relatives and workers of the residence where she has lived since 2013, the prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, also publicly congratulated her on social media, writing that she was "the visible face of the vaccination campaign and the commitment of Spanish society and ended up becoming an example to the world". The head of the Castilla-La Mancha regional government, Emiliano Garcia-Page, also publicly congratulated Araceli on social media, recalling "her cheerful attitude and her willingness to receive the first vaccine against Covid-19 in Spain, becoming a beacon of hope". An image of the alleged crime being committed by the priest. Alejandro Hernandez Alicante Wednesday, 21 February 2024, 15:37 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram A 64-year-old priest has been arrested for allegedly stealing an electric wheelchair from outside a charity in El Campello, Alicante. The mobility device, valued at 1,950 euros, was taken on 30 January. Its owner, who suffers from a disability, reported the theft to the Guardia Civil in the Alicante municipality. The complaint led to an investigation by the Guardia Civil of El Campello, with the support of the Local Police, to hunt down the thief who turned out to be a parish priest from the same municipality. The clergyman, who had no criminal record, tried to sell the chair for less than its value on the second-hand site Wallapop, according to the Guardia Civil. The chair was returned to its rightful owner. SUR Two weeks after the theft of the chair, the suspect was summoned to the Guardia Civil station in El Campello, where he was investigated for an alleged theft offence. The stolen wheelchair was recovered by the officers and returned to its legitimate owner, who expressed his gratitude. These actions were part of the Guardia Civils security plan for the safety of the elderly, which covers abuse, theft and fraud. For weeks, Pope Francis has been calling the Christian parish in Gaza every afternoon. The Pontiff connects by videoconference, and about 600 people listen in to receive his encouragement and support. It is one of the only things he can do right now, given how complex the situation there has become. Times are complicated, in a different way, for the Holy See, who has been unable to use its influence towards a longed-for ceasefire. Last week, tensions between Israel and the Vatican ratcheted up another notch. The Vaticans Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, declared that Israels right to self-defense does not justify the carnage of 30,000 deaths. The next day, the Israeli embassy in Italy issued a statement calling the words of the Vaticans second-in-command deplorable. But the Holy See did not retract Parolins comments, and LOsservatore Romano, the Popes official newspaper, once again referred to the conflict using the same terms to make clear that his was not a personal opinion, but a reflection of the pontificates position on the conflict. Problems continue to snowball in both Gaza and another region at war, Ukraine. The Vatican has watched the situations worsen and death tallies rise with a sense of impotency. Its legendary diplomacy, which gave rise to its reputation as a mediator in time of war and political conflicts, has encountered two scenarios in which it has few resources to influence. The war in Ukraine comes at a time when its relations with Moscow are at a low point, and the massacre in Gaza, at a time when its relations with Israel are also suffering. The Pope decided to entrust the Ukraine mission to the cardinal and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, Matteo Zuppi. The cardinal is an expert negotiator: he mediated the resolution of the conflicts in Mozambique in 1992, the Burundi ceasefire of 2003 in collaboration with Nelson Mandela, and in Guatemala during the mid-1990s. Every war ends with a negotiation, he said in a recent interview. Nearly eight months later, he has held meetings in Ukraine, Russia, China and the United States. Soon, he will travel to France to meet with President Emmanuel Macron. But his results, for the moment, have been limited to being able to keep all channels open, and to valuable humanitarian work, a far cry from peace in the region. Other tactics Massimo Faggioli, Catholic Church historian and professor of theology at Philadelphias Villanova University, offers an analysis of whats at play in this situation. The wars in Ukraine and Gaza have incorporated more voices into the Vatican secretary of states diplomacy, even if that has taken place in parallel to Cardinal Zuppis mission. On the other hand, it is clearly a very difficult time for all diplomacy, beginning with the United States. The Vatican, however, has other channels, such as local churches and their representatives, that other governmental organizations do not. Stefano Capiro, a priest who is an expert on international conflicts and Russia, where he lived for long periods of time, thinks that it is necessary to differentiate between the two wars when it comes to the attention they are receiving from the Vatican. Diplomacy in the war in Ukraine is not managed directly by the secretary of state. It is done more informally, through Cardinal Zuppi. And there has been no great progress there. It is true that some children who were deported [to Russia] have been returned, but little else. As soon as the armed conflict subsides, an attempt will be made to seek meetings with ecclesiastical jurisdictions, he points out. The Vaticans relationship with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has not helped much. But the foreign representative of the Russian Orthodox Church is in permanent contact with the Catholics, both in Moscow and here at the Vatican, where he usually comes. That relationship exists. But at the moment, it is not giving results because there is no clear strategy, Capiro says. As for Israel, there is lots of work to be done, but its situation is more tense, according to Capiro. The Pope insists that the Oslo accords be honored and that a two-state solution be pursued. He last made such comments in a lengthy interview with the Turin newspaper La Stampa. When it comes to the conflict in Gaza, which has deeply impacted the Christian community of Palestine, Francis has full confidence in Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem. Parolins comments from last week indicate a certain level of exasperation coming from the Holy See over the lack of progress in Gaza. The Vatican has witnessed outcry from various counties against Israel and Parolin has turned up the volume on its own dissent. He has indicated that Israel is the party that is able to stop the conflict. He has gone beyond prudence in terms of Vatican diplomacy, that is true. But this has also happened because in the last few days, there have been clear positions taken by important countries like the United States, Italy, and France, plus Spain and Ireland, who have done so since the beginning, say diplomatic sources. The Vatican is looking for creative ways to better the situation for the inhabitants of Ukraine and Gaza. For the next World Childrens Day, which will be celebrated in Rome in May, 30 boys and girls from Palestine will travel to the Italian capital. Details of the event have yet to be defined, but sources from the Holy See hope that it could mean new hope for humanitarian negotiations. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition 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. Morrisville, N.Y. -- A man was critically injured and airlifted to a Syracuse hospital Tuesday after his snowmobile crashed in Madison County, troopers said. Around 7:29 p.m., state police responded to 100 Callahan Drive in the village of Morrisville where a mans snowmobile crashed, New York State Police spokesperson Trooper Jack Keller said Wednesday. Jayson C. Parker, 42, of Morrisville, was riding a 2023 Ski-Doo snowmobile east on Callahan Drive when he went off the road, hit a pipe sticking out of the ground and went airborne, Keller said. New Yorks oldest family business is so ancient that it was established before George Washington was born, before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, before the Underground Railroad helped enslaved people to freedom, and even before the first U.S. dollar bill was printed. Hudson Valleys Saunderskill Farms, the states oldest business, has been continuously farmed since 1680. Its roots extend through 12 generations of the Schoonmaker family. Located in Accord, about 10 miles away from popular Mohonk Mountain House and the Minnewaska Preserve, this 400-plus acre farmstead is one of the few farms in the nation to have received the rare Tricentennial Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Saunderskill Farms in Accord, NY is the oldest business in the state, started in 1680. @upstatecurious on Instagram| Provided photo@upstatecurious on Instagram| Provided photo Open seasonally from April through early December, Saunderskill Farms grows flowers, fruits, and vegetables each year. Its a favorite destination for families looking to pick their own strawberries, blueberries, apples as the Upstate New York seasons change. Families flock to the farm in fall to take part in horse drawn hay-rides, a free corn maze and go pumpkin picking in the regions largest pumpkin patch. The onsite market also includes a bakery and cafe where you can find autumnal food staple, the apple cider doughnut, as well as fresh baked pies, breakfast, soups, and sandwiches. Plant fanatics will be able to peruse 15 greenhouses filled to the brim with an assortment of annuals, perennials and vegetable plants. Their website notes that they have a selection of 4,000 mums each year, grown right at their greenhouses. To see the oldest business in states across the country, visit the National Conference of State Legislatures. The administration of President Joe Biden announced a new round of student loan forgiveness Wednesday aimed at thousands of borrowers in a new repayment plan. The move will benefit nearly 153,000 people currently enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan, according to the White House. About $1.2 billion in student loans will be canceled. The new relief will go to borrowers who have been making loan payments for 10 years or longer and who originally took out $12,000 or less, according to CNBC. If you qualify, the forgiveness will be automatic. People who are eligible will get an email informing them of the debt cancellation, according to CBS News. Normally, borrowers in income-driven repayment plans like SAVE get loan forgiveness after making payments for 20 or 25 years. Under SAVE, those who borrowed less can get the debt canceled after just 10 years, CNBC said. With todays announcement, we are once again sending a clear message to borrowers who had low balances: if youve been paying for a decade, youve done your part, and you deserve relief, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement, according to CNBC. The SAVE plan has become an important tool for the Biden administration since the Supreme Court struck down a plan for broader debt forgiveness last year, according to NPR. Republicans have argued the SAVE plan is outside the administrations authority and criticized Biden for campaigning on the program. Biden has been announcing various batches of student loan relief for months. The administration has now forgiven about $138 billion in student debt. Nearly 3.9 million people have benefited from the moves, according to the White House. The moves are part of a political strategy as Biden seeks reelection in November, according to USA Today. Research has shown Democrats and younger voters reward politicians who deliver on loan relief, USA Today said. Opinion articles written in the style of their author." These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. shall feature, along with the author's name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed The news reaches the barracks of a prison camp slowly, and I only found out about Alexei Navalnys death yesterday. It's hard to convey my shock. It's hard to organize your ideas. The pain and horror are unbearable. In any case, I wont stay silent. I will say what I think is important. I do not ask myself the question of what happened to Navalny. I have no doubt that they killed him. Alexei spent three years under the control of the security forces, who already organized an attack on him in 2020 that failed. Today they have taken the operation to the end. I dont ask myself the question of who killed him. I have no doubt that it is Putin. Putin is a war criminal. Navalny was his key opponent in Russia and was hated in the Kremlin. Putin had the motive and the opportunity. And I am convinced that he was the one who ordered him killed. I understand that official propaganda will begin to manipulate public opinion. They will say that Navalnys death does not benefit the president, that killing Navalny one month before the elections is not logical, that Putin is focused on global politics and does not have time to think about who knows what prisoner... It is a complete stupidity, and you can instantly erase it from your brain. After Navalnys poisoning in 2020, propaganda defended Putin with the argument that if he had wanted to kill him, he would have done it. And it is the pure truth. He wanted it and he killed him. And not only did he kill him, but he killed him demonstratively. Especially shortly before the elections, so that no one actually doubts Putins participation. In the same obvious way that he killed Prigozhin: so that no one would doubt it. As Putin understands things, this is precisely how power is consolidated: with murder, cruelty and exemplary revenge. This is not the thinking of a statesman. Its the way of thinking of a gang boss. So let us honestly recognize that Putin is the head of a mafia structure that has merged with our state. A being deprived of all moral or legal restrictions. A being that subjects his people to terror, and those who do not fear him he locks up or eliminates. Thats why Boris Nemtsov was shot dead. That is why they killed Alexei Navalny. For three years, inside the penal colonies, they tortured him in the punishment cells and punished him so that Alexei would ask for mercy. They did not succeed and that is why they have taken his life. The confrontation between Navalny and Putin has shown the dimension of both personalities. Alexei will remain in history as a man of incomparable courage, a man who continued forward in the name of what he believed in. And he marched with a smile and his head proudly held high. And he died like a hero. Putin, on the other hand, will remain a little man who happened to receive enormous power into his hands. A character who hides in a bunker, who kills when nobody is looking and makes millions of people hostage to his own complexes. But I dont wish death on Putin. I long for him to answer for his crimes, and not only before the divine judge but before the earthly ones as well. Alexei Navalny was my friend. As was Boris Nemtsov. We worked for the same cause and dedicated our lives to making Russia a peaceful, free and happy country. Today my two friends are dead. And I feel a black emptiness deep inside. And, of course, I am aware of my own risks. I am behind bars, my life is in Putins hands and it is in danger. But I will continue to push the envelope with my line. Standing before Boris body in February 2015, I swore to myself not to be afraid, not to give up and not to run away. Nine years later, mourning the murder of Navalny, I can only repeat my oath: as long as my heart continues to beat in my chest, I will continue fighting against tyranny. As long as I live I will not fear evil. As long as I breathe, I will be with my people. I swear it. Alexei sleeps in peace. Yulia [the widow], Lyudmila Ivanovna and Anatoly Ivanovich [the parents], Oleg, Dasha and Zakhar [the children]: courage! I am with you. Ilya Yashin is a prisoner in a Siberia penitentiary for criticizing the war in Ukraine and condemning the Bucha massacre. He was convicted to eight and a half years behind bars. In 2020, Oregon voters passed Measure 110, which decriminalized the possession of small amounts of illegal drugs and directed cannabis taxes money towards recovery services for addicts. The measures goal was to change the approach towards drug use by treating addiction as a public health matter. Although it seemed radical, it was an example of a city seeking a different solution to the current drug crisis America is facing; which in Portland, precisely, has led to the declaration of 90-day State of Emergency since February 1st. Portugal implemented a similar approach at the beginning of the century. The country decriminalized the possession and use of small amounts of drugs for personal use. Instead, it considers them administrative offenses, not criminal, and it focuses on health and harm reduction by offering addicts treatment, counseling and other health services rather than being sent to jail. The policy has been considered successful by reducing not only drug-related deaths but HIV/AIDS transmission rates, and drug-related crime. Under Measure 110, drug users are issued $100 citations with a card that includes the number to a hotline for addiction treatment services. They can call the hotline to help dismiss the citation. However, there are no consequences if they ignore the citations, and only a very small percentage of people call the hotline. According to state auditors, only 1% who received citations called. This has resulted in a sharp rise in overdose deaths linked to drug use, particularly use of fentanyl, which has caused Oregon lawmakers to consider backtracking on the measure. A volunteer cleans up needles used for drug injection that were found at a homeless encampment, in 2017. Ted S. Warren (AP) Where it went wrong? An analysis on the effectiveness of Measure 110 published by Tony Schick and Conrad Wilson of Oregon Public Broadcasting say that political leaders played central roles in failing to deliver on the potential for law enforcement to connect people with lifesaving services. According to the paper, the government failed to train police on how to better use the new law. The report highlights that Tera Hurst, a supporter of Measure 110, of Oregons Health Justice Recovery Alliance, proposed a detailed plan for its implementation to Governor Kate Browns office three days before the measure became effective in February 2021. The plan included actions such as issuing bulletins to police departments, creating specialized tickets for drug possession with treatment information, and coordinating with hotline operators for treatment notifications. However, none of these proposals were executed, and police continued using old citations without treatment information. Despite Hursts persistent efforts, Governor Browns office did not convene a collaborative group or provide clear directives to law enforcement on implementing the law. Although the governor mentioned exploring options such as new police training, no specific instructions were provided by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training or the Oregon Health Authority. Brown acknowledged the challenges in the rollout of Measure 110 but cited limitations on her administrations options when it took effect in 2021. Despite this the law has made significant progress by allocating $265 million of cannabis tax revenue towards establishing Oregons new addiction treatment infrastructure. It has established Behavioral Health Resource Networks in each county, providing care regardless of financial capability. State data indicates that approximately 7,000 individuals entered treatment between January and March 2024, doubling from the previous quarter. This funding has also provided stability and predictability for mental health and addiction service providers, offering a sustainable source of funding that was previously lacking, according to Heather Jefferis, Executive Director of the Oregon Council for Behavioral Health. Tents line a sidewalk in Portland, december 2020, when a record number of homeless deaths were driven by meth and fentanyl. Craig Mitchelldyer (AP) Proposals Republican lawmakers have asked Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek to convene a special session during the February Legislature. They are looking for stricter penalties for drug possession (up to a year of prison) and related offenses, including mandatory treatment, and easing restrictions to allow the placement of users under the influence in facilities like hospitals if they present a risk to themselves or others. Meanwhile, the Democrat majority is pushing for a bill to make small-scale drug possession a low-level misdemeanor. Offenders would face a maximum of 30 days in jail but would have the option to pursue treatment rather than facing charges. The bill would also increase sentences for drug dealers, widen access to medication for opioid addiction treatment, and drug prevention programs that include expanded recovery and housing services. Lawmakers will vote on re-criminalization during the current session. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition RahulNagaraj Senior - BHPian Join Date: Mar 2021 Location: Bangalore Posts: 2,046 Thanked: 20,019 Times Consumer Reports: 2024 list of most & least liked car brands Rivian, which offers the R1S & R1T models, had the best satisfaction score, with 86% of the owners stating they would buy again. MINI came in second and BMW in third. 77% of MINI owners stated they would buy a car from the brand again, while 76% of BMW owners had the same sentiment. The CR study also states that MINI had the biggest move up in the list, jumping 11 spots compared to the results from the previous year. Porsche and Tesla completed the top 5, with 76% and 74% of owners coming back to the brand, respectively. The top 10 most-liked brands also included a few mainstream automakers like Subaru, Ram & Honda in 8th, 9th and 10th positions, respectively. Hyundai & Toyota's premium sub-brands Genesis & Lexus occupied the 6th and 7th positions on the list, respectively. The least liked brand on the list was Infiniti in 29th position, with only 43% of owners agreeing to buy from the brand again. Volkswagen, Nissan, Jeep, Audi and Mercedes-Benz faired slightly better, occupying 28th, 27th, 26th, 25th and 24th positions, respectively. The study also ranked brands based on a few specific areas. Here, Porsche ranked the highest for Comfort, Tesla for Driving & Ownership Costs, Ram for Cabin Storage and Genesis for Usability. The report is based on data involving more than 3,30,000 vehicles, including MY2021 to MY2023, with a few 2024 versions as well. Source: Link to Team-BHP news According to the latest study by Consumer Reports, the Rivian has come out on top as the most-liked car brand of 2023 in terms of owner satisfaction.Rivian, which offers the R1S & R1T models, had the best satisfaction score, with 86% of the owners stating they would buy again. MINI came in second and BMW in third. 77% of MINI owners stated they would buy a car from the brand again, while 76% of BMW owners had the same sentiment. The CR study also states that MINI had the biggest move up in the list, jumping 11 spots compared to the results from the previous year.Porsche and Tesla completed the top 5, with 76% and 74% of owners coming back to the brand, respectively.The top 10 most-liked brands also included a few mainstream automakers like Subaru, Ram & Honda in 8th, 9th and 10th positions, respectively. Hyundai & Toyota's premium sub-brands Genesis & Lexus occupied the 6th and 7th positions on the list, respectively.The least liked brand on the list was Infiniti in 29th position, with only 43% of owners agreeing to buy from the brand again. Volkswagen, Nissan, Jeep, Audi and Mercedes-Benz faired slightly better, occupying 28th, 27th, 26th, 25th and 24th positions, respectively.The study also ranked brands based on a few specific areas. Here, Porsche ranked the highest for Comfort, Tesla for Driving & Ownership Costs, Ram for Cabin Storage and Genesis for Usability.The report is based on data involving more than 3,30,000 vehicles, including MY2021 to MY2023, with a few 2024 versions as well.Source: ConsumerReports Last edited by RahulNagaraj : 20th February 2024 at 13:05 . kvsneela BHPian Join Date: Jun 2022 Location: Pondicherry Posts: 93 Thanked: 376 Times Re: Two-day Temple trip in Chozha Country Bhairavar Temple Thiru Narayana Perumal (Thirumanimadam) temple, Thirunangur: Deities: Narayanan Perumal (Vishnu) & PundareekaValli (Lakshmi): This was not in the original plan. Wifes sister had sent a notice before we started about a function in this temple and since it falls on the way to our next destination (Thirukadaiyur) we planned to have a peek here. There are 11 Perumal (Vishnu) temples in and around Thirunangur. Every year on the next day of new moon day in the Tamizh month of Thai, Garudasevai (Vishnu Idols on Garuda from 11 temples will be taken around) is performed in the night for few hours. For that purpose, the Utsavamurti (each Siva/Perumal temple have 2 idols. One is fixed in sanctorum called Moolavar and other one for taking in procession called Utsavar) from all temples are brought to the main temple (Narayana Perumal temple) at noon. As many roads were blocked inside the village by police , we had to park the car outside before the entry point. When we reached the temple at around 1.30 PM none of the idols reached the temple and so wife decided to proceed which was suitable for me also as it was hot and I was very much tired but my relief was short lived. As we were walking towards our car, one by one the idols started to come in and wife refused to leave this opportunity to see all the idols in one place. I threatened her that if this continued, I wont accompany her in future trips but she did not budge (knowing very well that is not going to happen as I also dont have any other alternate to get relief from routine life). As I was waiting for her to finish, I could observe closely. The Palanquin in which the idols were carried was very heavy (even with 3 people each on the 4 sides, they struggled to maintain the balance). They needed to take rest every few steps. No wonder it takes nearly 12 hours to travel few couple of kms (procession started in early hours from each temple). After wife was fully satisfied, we moved on to Thirukadaiyur. Thirunangur Entry Parking Devotees waiting for the Idols Idols procession arriving Abhirami temple, Thirukadaiyur: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amrita...Abirami_Temple Deities: Amritaghateswarar - Abirami We did not book any hotels for our night stay as lot of hotels are available in such a small place. The reason is that this place is famous for its marriage functions and 60th year and 80th year functions. In our previous visits we had no need for accommodation as those were one day visits. This time our plan was to stay overnight and searched for rooms as we reached the temple at around 2.30 PM (temple opens only at 4 PM). But since next day was auspicious day all the major hotels were fully booked as people come in buses with friends and relatives with advance booking the full hotel. Finally we could get at Hotel Bharath in top floor without lift (3rd ) ,a non AC room without TV and Western Toilet which was ok as we have the same setup in our home except the toilets ( rate was only 500/-) and also just few meters from the temple. I did not try in other hotels like TTDC which were a bit away from the temple. Took some rest and visited the temple at around 5 PM. I returned back after an hour but wife stayed until dinner time (as usual). She called for dinner at 8.30 PM which we took at the next building called Mani Iyer restaurant. (Food was ok). During dinner she informed that she had changed the plan for next day (which was Thirunallaru originally) as she had arranged to see the abhishekam for Abhirami idol at 5.30 AM( 3500/- fees) . For me it did not make any difference as my purpose of these trips are just to escape from routine life rather have any connection with divine forces. So, we decided that she will go alone in the morning (got confirmed from the hotel that it wont be problem for her to go alone in the early morning hrs. In fact, she informed me afterwards that marriages were already going on when she reached the temple). As per legend Abhirama Pattar (nee Subramanian), 18th century saint, told the king (probably Sherfoji I of Marata Dynasty) who asked him about the day which Subramanian replied as full moon day whereas actually it was new moon day. The king ordered him to prove otherwise he would be killed. The Subramanian sang songs on the deity Abhirami called Abhirami Andhathi at the end of which goddess herself appeared and threw her ear ring which became full moon. Thirukadaiyur Parking temple elephant Temple Views ( Cameras not allowed in Main temple) Hotel Bharath 11.02.2024: Lalithambigai temple, Thirumeyachur, Peralam: Deities: Megadnadhar & Lalithambigai. I woke up at around 6.30 AM (my usual time) and wife returned at around 8.30 A.M. She had brought some offerings from the temple like Puliyodharai (tamarind rice) and sweet Pongal which became our breakfast. Then she gave the option of returning home without visiting any temples further. But since I had taken rest full night and that was being Sunday (and there is no urgent work back in home also), I decided to continue with our actual plan by missing only Thirunallaru. (Also, from my experience, I knew that though she was ready to return home, internally she would like cover maximum temples and I did not want to disappoint her). Next in the list was Lalithambigai temple at Thirumeyachur near Peralam. From Seerkazhi 2 roads are going south. One via Mayiladuthurai, Thiruvarur and the other one is towards Nagapattinam. We were in the second route and Peralam is in the first route as both are running parallelly with 25 Kms across. Proper route would be via Mayiladuthurai or Thirunallaru. But GMaps showed direct village route across (via Thirukalacheri and Kothangudi) which I took as I was confident from the previous experiences in village roads in Tamil Nadu. As expected, I was not disappointed and in fact this was the best route in the entire trip. As these areas situated in Cauvery delta, whole route was full of green fields and water canals by the side of the road. towards Peralam Interior Road From Peralam, 2 roads are going towards the temple. One turns right in Peralam itself (not so good road) and the other one turns right after crossing railway line (better and shorter road). But since there was traffic jam, I had to take the first road. As usual temple was not crowded much and we could finish by 12.30. Returned to Pondy via Mayiladuthurai, Seerkazhi, Chidambaram and Cuddalore. On the way finished lunch at Anandha Bhawan on Seerkazhi bypass (only decent hotel on this side of the road in that area). Reached Pondy at 5 PM. Approaching temple Lalithambigai temple Temple Views Temple inside Exit Road Mayiladuthurai Road Anandha Bhavan Important points: 1. Due to the ECR road expansion project most of the places in this route we have to face diversions which are also not good many places. Cuddalore to Chidambaram is 75% completed and now the road directly joins Chidambaram bypass road. Seerkazhi to Thirukadaiyur also had some problems in places. Dust could not be avoided. It is better not to use this route for next 1/2 years unless emergency. 2. Thirukadaiyur and Peralam temples have toilet facilities but not the other temples so it is better plan for bio breaks. 3. For Thirukadaiyur it is better to book in advance (in case of overnight stay) especially on auspicious days to be on the safer side. Our Spresso behaved as expected. Every time I take the car for outstation trips I come back with a grin in my face. Small foot (Auto like) saved the situation many times especially in small village roads. Buying manual version helped at least on two occasions in this trip. First in Thirukadaiyur when I was coming out of parking lot (which had a climbing slop at the gate), one Creta was also turning inside so that I had to stop on the slop. But I could squeeze through a small gap by managing the clutch. Same thing happened again near Chidambaram in railway level crossing. Again, could manage with manual clutch. I dont know how an Automatic (especially AMT would have behaved) in these types of situations. Deities: Narayanan Perumal (Vishnu) & PundareekaValli (Lakshmi):This was not in the original plan. Wifes sister had sent a notice before we started about a function in this temple and since it falls on the way to our next destination (Thirukadaiyur) we planned to have a peek here. There are 11 Perumal (Vishnu) temples in and around Thirunangur. Every year on the next day of new moon day in the Tamizh month of Thai, Garudasevai (Vishnu Idols on Garuda from 11 temples will be taken around) is performed in the night for few hours. For that purpose, the Utsavamurti (each Siva/Perumal temple have 2 idols. One is fixed in sanctorum called Moolavar and other one for taking in procession called Utsavar) from all temples are brought to the main temple (Narayana Perumal temple) at noon.As many roads were blocked inside the village by police , we had to park the car outside before the entry point. When we reached the temple at around 1.30 PM none of the idols reached the temple and so wife decided to proceed which was suitable for me also as it was hot and I was very much tired but my relief was short lived. As we were walking towards our car, one by one the idols started to come in and wife refused to leave this opportunity to see all the idols in one place. I threatened her that if this continued, I wont accompany her in future trips but she did not budge (knowing very well that is not going to happen as I also dont have any other alternate to get relief from routine life). As I was waiting for her to finish, I could observe closely. The Palanquin in which the idols were carried was very heavy (even with 3 people each on the 4 sides, they struggled to maintain the balance). They needed to take rest every few steps. No wonder it takes nearly 12 hours to travel few couple of kms (procession started in early hours from each temple). After wife was fully satisfied, we moved on to Thirukadaiyur.Deities: Amritaghateswarar - AbiramiWe did not book any hotels for our night stay as lot of hotels are available in such a small place. The reason is that this place is famous for its marriage functions and 60th year and 80th year functions. In our previous visits we had no need for accommodation as those were one day visits. This time our plan was to stay overnight and searched for rooms as we reached the temple at around 2.30 PM (temple opens only at 4 PM). But since next day was auspicious day all the major hotels were fully booked as people come in buses with friends and relatives with advance booking the full hotel. Finally we could get at Hotel Bharath in top floor without lift (3rd ) ,a non AC room without TV and Western Toilet which was ok as we have the same setup in our home except the toilets ( rate was only 500/-) and also just few meters from the temple. I did not try in other hotels like TTDC which were a bit away from the temple. Took some rest and visited the temple at around 5 PM. I returned back after an hour but wife stayed until dinner time (as usual). She called for dinner at 8.30 PM which we took at the next building called Mani Iyer restaurant. (Food was ok). During dinner she informed that she had changed the plan for next day (which was Thirunallaru originally) as she had arranged to see the abhishekam for Abhirami idol at 5.30 AM( 3500/- fees) . For me it did not make any difference as my purpose of these trips are just to escape from routine life rather have any connection with divine forces. So, we decided that she will go alone in the morning (got confirmed from the hotel that it wont be problem for her to go alone in the early morning hrs. In fact, she informed me afterwards that marriages were already going on when she reached the temple).As per legend Abhirama Pattar (nee Subramanian), 18th century saint, told the king (probably Sherfoji I of Marata Dynasty) who asked him about the day which Subramanian replied as full moon day whereas actually it was new moon day. The king ordered him to prove otherwise he would be killed. The Subramanian sang songs on the deity Abhirami called Abhirami Andhathi at the end of which goddess herself appeared and threw her ear ring which became full moon.Deities: Megadnadhar & Lalithambigai.I woke up at around 6.30 AM (my usual time) and wife returned at around 8.30 A.M. She had brought some offerings from the temple like Puliyodharai (tamarind rice) and sweet Pongal which became our breakfast. Then she gave the option of returning home without visiting any temples further. But since I had taken rest full night and that was being Sunday (and there is no urgent work back in home also), I decided to continue with our actual plan by missing only Thirunallaru. (Also, from my experience, I knew that though she was ready to return home, internally she would like cover maximum temples and I did not want to disappoint her). Next in the list was Lalithambigai temple at Thirumeyachur near Peralam. From Seerkazhi 2 roads are going south. One via Mayiladuthurai, Thiruvarur and the other one is towards Nagapattinam. We were in the second route and Peralam is in the first route as both are running parallelly with 25 Kms across. Proper route would be via Mayiladuthurai or Thirunallaru. But GMaps showed direct village route across (via Thirukalacheri and Kothangudi) which I took as I was confident from the previous experiences in village roads in Tamil Nadu. As expected, I was not disappointed and in fact this was the best route in the entire trip. As these areas situated in Cauvery delta, whole route was full of green fields and water canals by the side of the road.Interior RoadFrom Peralam, 2 roads are going towards the temple. One turns right in Peralam itself (not so good road) and the other one turns right after crossing railway line (better and shorter road). But since there was traffic jam, I had to take the first road. As usual temple was not crowded much and we could finish by 12.30. Returned to Pondy via Mayiladuthurai, Seerkazhi, Chidambaram and Cuddalore. On the way finished lunch at Anandha Bhawan on Seerkazhi bypass (only decent hotel on this side of the road in that area). Reached Pondy at 5 PM.1. Due to the ECR road expansion project most of the places in this route we have to face diversions which are also not good many places. Cuddalore to Chidambaram is 75% completed and now the road directly joins Chidambaram bypass road. Seerkazhi to Thirukadaiyur also had some problems in places. Dust could not be avoided. It is better not to use this route for next 1/2 years unless emergency.2. Thirukadaiyur and Peralam temples have toilet facilities but not the other temples so it is better plan for bio breaks.3. For Thirukadaiyur it is better to book in advance (in case of overnight stay) especially on auspicious days to be on the safer side.Our Spresso behaved as expected. Every time I take the car for outstation trips I come back with a grin in my face. Small foot (Auto like) saved the situation many times especially in small village roads. Buying manual version helped at least on two occasions in this trip. First in Thirukadaiyur when I was coming out of parking lot (which had a climbing slop at the gate), one Creta was also turning inside so that I had to stop on the slop. But I could squeeze through a small gap by managing the clutch. Same thing happened again near Chidambaram in railway level crossing. Again, could manage with manual clutch. I dont know how an Automatic (especially AMT would have behaved) in these types of situations. Last edited by kvsneela : 20th February 2024 at 18:06 . Recap: Arm reported its second set of earnings as a (once again) public company earlier this month. The numbers were particularly strong, well above consensus for both the current and guided quarters. Arm stock rallied strongly on the results up ~30% for the week and they are up over 60% in the last month. These numbers were important as they go a long way to establishing the company's credibility with the Street in a way their prior results did not. Solid execution and some strong tailwinds are helping. With that said, we saw things we both liked and disliked in their numbers. Here are our highlights of those: Positive: Growing Value Capture. One of our chief concerns with the company since IPO has been the low value they capture per licensed chip shipped roughly $0.11 per chip at the IPO. That figure continued to inch higher in the latest results, but critically they pointed out that their royalty rate doubles with the latest version of their IP (v9). This does not mean that all of their royalty rates are going to double any time soon, but it does point very much in the right direction. Critically, they noted this rate increase applies to architectural licenses as well. Negative: The Model is Complex. Judging from the number of questions management fielded on the call about this rate increase no one really knows how to model Arm. The company has a lot of moving parts in its revenue mix, and they have limits to their ability to communicate some very important parts of their model. We think that at some point the company would be well served by providing some clearer guide posts on how to build these models or they risk the Street always playing catch up with a wide swing of expectations each quarter. Positive: Premium Plan Conversion. The company said three companies converted from their AFA plan to the ATA model. We will not get into the details of those here, but these can best be thought of in software terms with customers on low priced subscription plans converting to Premium subscription plans. This is a good trend, and management expressed a high degree of confidence that they expect to see it continue. They have spent a few years putting these programs in place and seem to have thought them through. This matters particularly because these programs are well suited for smaller, earlier-stage companies. The old Arm struggled to attract new customers in large part because of the high upfront costs of Arm licenses. Programs like AFA and ATA could go a long way to redressing those past wrongs. Negative: China remains a black box. Arm China is a constant source of speculation. In the latest quarter it looks like a large portion of growth came from China, which does not exactly square with other data coming from China right now. It is still unclear to us how much of Arm's revenues from China's handset companies gets booked through Arm China as a related party transaction and how much is direct. Investors are confused, too. There is no easy solution to this problem, digging too hard into Arm China's numbers is unlikely to make anyone happy with the answers, but hopefully over time it all settles down. Positive: Growing Complexity of Compute. Management repeatedly mentioned this factor, noting that this leads to more chips and more Arm cores shipping in the marketplace. Some of this is tied to AI, but we think the story is broader than that. It is going to be tempting to see much of Arm's growth as riding the AI wave, but this does not fully capture the situation. The AI story is largely about GPUs, which are not particularly heavy with Arm cores. But those GPUs still need some CPU attach, and AI accelerators can sometimes be good Arm targets. Negative: Diversification. Arm remains heavily dependent on smartphones, and we suspect the return to inventory stocking by handset makers is playing a big role in their guidance. When asked about segmentation of their results the company declined to update the model provided during the IPO. We hope to see some diversification here when they do update their figures later in the year. --- Overall, the company did a good job in the quarter. They still have some kinks to work out with their communication to the Street, but this was a good second step as a public company. And, that leaves open the question of valuation... Arm is now worth $130+ billion and trades at 2025 P/E of 100x. These are lofty numbers. And while earnings were solid, the jump in the stock was considerably higher than the numbers alone justify. After their last earnings, the company attracted a fair amount of skepticism resulting in a sizable short interest ahead of last week's results. So the jump in the stock is in no small part attributable to an ugly short squeeze. Roughly 25% of Arm's stock floats, the rest is held by parent Softbank. We have to imagine that a secondary offering for more of Softbank's shares is already in the works. The question is, can Arm ever grow into this valuation? This question sits at the root of all those sell-side questions about the v8 to v9 transition. If Arm can really double its value capture then its current valuation starts to look a bit more reasonable, but even if they double earnings next year it would still trade at ~50x. The company does remain a critical part of the semis industry's foundation and for the moment appears to be executing well. Four-year-old Jonzi was one of a group of migrants traveling across the Mexican state of Sonora last Thursday when the vehicles were attacked by an armed commando. The child, who had arrived in Mexico from Ecuador, died on the night of February 15, along with at least two other women. His death had gone unnoticed, added to the large number of missing, kidnapped and deceased migrants attempting to reach the U.S. border that nobody asks about and whose bodies nobody claims. But a New York law firm specializing in migrant issues, 1800Migrante, released a statement based on a witness account that spoke of a migrant massacre in Saric, about 50 miles from the border with Arizona. The news forced the Sonora attorney general to provide some explanations. For now, Gustavo Salas has only acknowledged the death of Yonzi and two women, while three other people were injured in the attack. He said on Monday that the New York organizations claim of over 50 victims was completely false. An investigation is still underway. On Wednesday, 1800Migrante said that a fourth victim has been confirmed, an Ecuadorian woman from the city of Cuenca. We demand transparency from the Sonora Attorney Generals Office! said William Murillo, of the law firm, in a post on X. The group had left in three vehicles from La Reforma, a small town in Sonora around 60 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. According to the attorney generals office, there were no more than 14 people in the group. But according to the witness account offered by 1800Migrante, there were at least 50 people. At least 25 men were in one of them, according to this account. The two other vans were filled with women and children. The attack reportedly took place in Cerro Prieto, near Saric. First we felt that a car hit us from behind and the impact knocked us off the road. It threw us into a small gully, after that, they turned on some lights and some men got out and the shooting started, they were machine gun bursts, they shot at us and we all ran to save ourselves, said a Peruvian migrant named Carlos (an assumed name), in his testimony to 1800Migrante. The man said he was able to escape because he ran through the desert with a group of five Ecuadorian men. He crossed into the U.S. and contacted 1800Migrante asking for help: he did not know anything about his sister, Ana Vidal, who was traveling with him that night. Vidal, 28, is one of the women confirmed killed in the attack. Her body has been recognized by video call by her family in Peru, the organization stated. Another confirmed adult victim is Wendy Carranza, a Honduran citizen, who was traveling with her 15-month-old baby. Her brother Welvin told the network Univision that the woman was going to Texas to join her husband and other son, who already lived there. She called him from her cell phone after the attack: She was alive for a long time after getting shot, with the baby there by her side. She felt the shot in her back, said her brother, who is asking for help to repatriate the womans body to Honduras and to recover the baby, who is uninjured and was taken to a shelter in Sonora. The hitmen set fire to two of the vehicles in which the migrants were traveling with grenade launchers. Murillo, president of 1800Migrante, said that the attackers used large-caliber weapons to attack the migrants. Attorney General Gustavo Salas has confirmed that the attack was carried out by an armed group, which the authorities have located. In the last few hours, the Mexican Army has made important arrests in that area: they detained a complete cell of eight individuals with long-range weapons, said Salas, adding that this is a federal investigation into human trafficking and that those who attacked the migrants are groups that generate violence in the area. The explanation has not convinced the lawyer organization, which accuses the AGs Office of complicit silence, since it had kept quiet about the attack until 1800Migrante made it public. We feel a little perplexed that an office like ours, which is thousands of kilometers away, has more information than them. We are convinced that there are more deaths and they do not want to say it, said Murillo, pointing out that some of the Ecuadorian witnesses with whom they have spoken saw charred bodies: We dont know who they are, but we do know that we have requests for help from different people, from Ecuador and other countries, who are looking for their relatives, and unfortunately we cannot coordinate the actions of the Attorney Generals Office because there is a blockage of information. Mexico has a dark history of migrant massacres. On August 24, 2010, Luis Freddy Lala Pomavilla, 18, an Ecuadorian immigrant, walked into the Tamaulipas police station to report that his group had been kidnapped by Los Zetas. On a ranch in San Fernando, authorities found the dead bodies of 72 people. In that same location, clandestine graves with almost 200 bodies, most of them foreigners, were found in the following years. In 2021, 12 Tamaulipas police officers shot and set fire to 19 migrants in Camargo, near the border with the United States. Last year, a judge sentenced them to 50 years in prison. What just happened? Xbox boss Phil Spencer has been talking about the future of the brand, revealing two interesting bits of information: Xbox still intends for day one Activision Blizzard games to appear on Game Pass, which could include this year's Call of Duty; and it will continue to support physical games for now. Spencer confirmed that Microsoft plans for all its first-party Xbox games to come to Game Pass on the day they launch. In an interview with Game File, he said that covers the full portfolio of titles from Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax (which includes Bethesda, MachineGames, and iD Software), and Xbox Game Studios. Xbox has already revealed that Blizzard's Diablo 4 will land on Game Pass on March 28. Spencer never specifically mentioned Call of Duty coming to the service on day one, but it was implied. He said work was currently being carried out to add other existing Activision Blizzard titles to Game Pass. "We're doing the back end work to make them come to PC and console simultaneously," Spencer explained. Call of Duty was a contentious issue during Microsoft's protracted $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard. Fears that the popular franchise would be made a PC/Xbox exclusive worried regulators to the point that Microsoft signed a 10-year deal to keep the series on PlayStation. Sony still wasn't happy about the situation, forecasting a $1.5 billion loss by 2027 as a result of the merger. Elsewhere in the interview, Spencer talked about the industry's shift toward digital media over physical. There were leaked plans for an all-digital version of the Xbox Series X (the Series S already lacks a drive) called Brooklin in September, suggesting Microsoft was getting ready to abandon disc drives altogether. While Spencer refused to talk about the console, which may arrive in November this year, he did say, "We are supportive of physical media, but we don't have a need to drive that disproportionate to customer demand." Spencer added that "we ship games physically and digitally, and we're really just following what the customers are doing. And I think our job in running Xbox is to deliver on the things that a majority of the customers want. And right now, a majority of our customers are buying games digitally." "But I will say our strategy does not hinge on people moving all-digital," he added. "And getting rid of physical, that's not a strategic thing for us." Alan Wake 2 was released as a digital-only game last year, and Hellblade 2 will do the same in May. More evidence of this shift among console owners came in Sony's quarterly earnings, which showed the share of digital-edition sales had increased up to 66% compared to 62% the previous year. The big picture: Quasars are the brightest objects known to exist in the universe, consisting of supermassive black holes that eat enormous amounts of matter. Astronomers recently revealed that they've found a particularly extreme example. As bright and massive as it is, the new record-holding quasar was hiding in plain sight. Astronomers recently detected what is now considered the brightest-known object in the universe. This intensely large and powerful quasar proved surprisingly elusive, indicating that finding more quasars may require a new approach. The object, named J0529 4351, is a supermassive black hole around 17 billion times the mass of the sun and 500 trillion times brighter. The immense amount of light comes from the accretion disc of dust and gas that the black hole consumes about one solar mass worth per day. The quasar is so far away that its light takes 12 billion years to reach Earth. Furthermore, the researchers said that close-up, J0529 4351 would look like a storm cell seven light-years across half-again the distance between the sun and its nearest neighbor, Alpha Centauri. Temperatures inside the cell can reach 10,000 Celsius, with winds fast enough to circumnavigate the Earth in a second. Scientists previously assumed that supermassive black holes ate material over hundreds or thousands of years, but further study suggests they can consume gas and dust much more quickly. A recent simulation indicated that one could eat the contents of its accretion disc within months while new material constantly replenishes the disc, so a quasar devouring a solar mass a day doesn't appear far-fetched. Although around one million quasars have been discovered over the last several decades, detecting them has proven challenging. Finding quasars doesn't necessarily require powerful telescopes but rather precise data and observation of large portions of the sky. Without that data, quasars appear indistinguishable from ordinary stars. Machine learning has been proposed as a solution, but the extreme rarity of quasars makes it challenging for the technology to accurately identify them. For example, a low-resolution spectrum of J0529 4351 has existed in a public data set since 2022, but machine learning classified it as a typical star, while human Astronomers could easily identify it as a quasar. Its existence was confirmed by combining observations from the New South Wales Siding Spring Observatory and the ESO's Very Large Telescope Interferometer in Chile. What just happened? A pair of Chinese nationals who tried to defraud Apple out of millions of dollars' worth of iPhones have been found guilty of mail fraud. The Maryland residents used 5,000 counterfeit iPhones in an attempt to trick Apple into replacing them with genuine handsets. A federal jury in the District of Columbia convicted Haotian Sun and Pengfei Xue over their plan to steal more than $3 million from Apple. Between May 2017 and September 2019, the duo along with their co-conspirators received shipments of counterfeit iPhones from Hong Kong. They then submitted the fake handsets, using spoofed serial numbers and/or IMEI numbers from real handsets, to Apple retail stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers, claiming they had been damaged and needed replacing under warranty. More than 5,000 counterfeit phones were submitted to Apple during the two-year period. The complaint suggests that Apple actually fell for the trick and replaced the fakes with real iPhones more than 2,700 times. It was only when an Apple brand investigator realized the parts were fake and the serial numbers spoofed that law enforcement was informed. The DoJ writes that Sun opened eight UPS Store mailboxes using his Maryland driver's license and university identification card in 2017. US postal inspectors discovered the counterfeit iPhones being sent to the mailboxes and arrested Sun and Xue in December 2019. Also read: MIT's minuscule terahertz RFID tag foils counterfeiters with metallic glue The defendants, both 33 years old, were convicted by a jury of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. They are scheduled to be sentenced on June 21, with each facing a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. It seems the fake iPhone scam is a particularly popular one. In 2019, two Chinese engineering students conned Cupertino out of almost $1 million worth of iPhones using exactly the same exchange-fake-for-new trick. Also in 2019, the DoJ indicted 17 people involved in a massive counterfeiting scheme. The group scammed Apple out of $6.1 million by exchanging more than 10,000 fake Chinese iPhones and iPads for real ones in Apple Stores in the US and Canada. WTF?! ChatGPT started glitching out last night and the people lost their minds. Some are calling it the "singularity." Others think it's an elaborate collective hoax that even OpenAI is in on. Some think the LLM is struggling with words as it becomes sentient. My guess: It just a misplaced comma in the code. Any software under ongoing development is highly likely to experience sudden bugs. About a year ago, Meta's Alpaca started responding to queries with clearly false answers while insisting they were true. Large language model (LLM) developers like OpenAI refer to this phenomenon as a "hallucination." If we are to stick with anthropomorphizing LLM algorithms when glitches occur, last night ChatGPT began experiencing full-blown dementia. Sometime before 6:40 pm EST on February 20, users began reporting that the OpenAI chatbot's responses to queries had become unintelligible. The bot's behavior varied widely between users. In multiple instances, it started speaking in Spanglish, a combination of English and Spanish spoken in many American Latino households. However, the users reporting the behavior only used English. chatgpt is apparently going off the rails right now and no one can explain why pic.twitter.com/0XSSsTfLzP sean mcguire (@seanw_m) February 21, 2024 In another example, ChatGPT responded with the phrase, "It is and it is," repeated for more than a page of text. Someone pointed out that it was reminiscent of that scene in Stephen King's The Shining where struggling author Jack Torrance starts to lose his mind while working on his novel and types the proverb, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy" on page after page. The only difference being that at one point ChatGPT inserted the modified phrase, "It is and it always is," but just once, leaving it a curious oddity. OpenAI became aware of the issue and began an investigation. It reported that it identified the problem and was working on a fix. The developer's last status update, at 8 pm EST last night, said it was "monitoring the situation." The company reported that systems were fully operational just before publication and closed the case. OpenAI has not provided a comment or an explanation for the odd behavior, but that has not stopped the collective internet from wildly speculating. Most of the public's reactions are half-jests, but behind every joke is a grain of truth. "Who knew that the first evidence of AGI [atificial general intellegence] would be emergent Spanglish?" read one tweet. What does chatgpt know about the hexagon on saturn that we don't? pic.twitter.com/4ckuNiMbPI yugamald (@yugamald) February 21, 2024 "It's breaking into singularity. I'm extremely scared," said another user, referring to the concept of a point in time when artificial intelligence progresses beyond human control. This would be very scary, but considering that chatbots, even those as advanced as ChatGPT, are not actually artificial intelligence, we don't have anything to worry about. Others are skeptical of those posting the nonsensical ChatGPT responses, claiming users are causing the maddness with their prompts, which are not shown in some posts. "You prompted that response. Try harder," one person accused. "Why don't they post the whole chat convo from the beginning (including the custom instructions) instead of only the parts where the AI seems to get weird? That's sus," said another. However, the commenter that seems to have won over the X thread, with over 12,000 likes and 305 retweets, finds the whole thing hilariously 420: Google is letting its AI do the important talking for the Play Store, with the internet company recently discovered to be testing a new feature on the platform called "App Highlights." Through this feature, users looking at an app will get valuable insights from the artificial intelligence centered on the important information and features that a specific app has to offer, centered on a concise description. As Google moves forward with its massive AI integration, the company is doing well on its claims that it will bring more machine learning developments to its products for users to enjoy. Google Play Store Tests AI-Powered App Highlights Android analyst @AssembleDebug recently shared screenshots via X detailing the new AI feature found on the Google Play Store, which they believe to be under testing on the platform. This feature is called the App highlights, and it provides concise information about an app, talking more about specific features and offers of the application in short blurbs. In the screenshot, the analyst shared the App highlights for X, formerly known as Twitter, showing how Google's AI spotlighted its several important features to showcase what it brings to users. This highlighted features like posting on the feed, staying updated on the latest talks or trends, and more. Moreover, the analyst also showed how the Play Store offers the App highlights found on the landing page, and clicking on the 'Show' button would take users to a page where the AI-generated content could be found. Read Also: Google Maps Now Uses Generative AI to Discover Places, More Features Google Play Store testing AI based App Highlights features This new addition - App Highlights using AI provides users the highlights of the app on the details page. This is similar to the AI based FAQ's feature which I shared about back in January.#Google #Ai #Android pic.twitter.com/77RuyT41Mi February 19, 2024 Google's Integration of AI to the Play Store Before, Google also delivered new AI features on the Play Store, and this centered on helping developers create Play Store listings that talk more about the application for users to consume. This generative AI feature expands for users to read on, offering concise information about a specific app that highlights more of what it has to offer, skipping the colorful descriptions developers give them. Google's Massive Shift Towards AI The top goal of Google for the year is to bring more AI developments and experiences to what it has to offer the public, with Sundar Pichai detailing the plans to the Googlers earlier this year. This said goal already shows for the company's many developments when 2024 started, with various products and services getting Google's AI touch and improvements. One of the top AI features that came to Google's product centered on Chrome, with the web browser app now leveraging a way for users to arrange their tabs without the hassle of doing it manually. Through AI, Google Chrome may now group a user's tabs and have these available when needed but stored so that it would not disrupt the browsing experience. Generative AI is also becoming more apparent in Google's products lately, centering on new tools and experiences available for all kinds of needs, including creating one for students and educators. Google made it known that their track is now geared towards pushing more AI, with the Play Store seeing a new feature under testing that offers significant highlights for apps that center on the important bits. Related Article: Google Gemini to Fix Issues, Bring Selected Assistant Features Back for All 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The death of Alexei Navalny has been used by Donald Trump as an excuse to play the martyr. The former U.S. president has compared the Russian dissidents death with his legal woes and so-called political persecution at the hands of his Democratic rivals. On Monday, Trump shared a post on his social network, Truth Social, in which he alluded to the death of the dissident without a single mention of the Kremlin. And on Tuesday, the front-runner to win the Republican nomination took advantage of a meeting with voters in the City Council of Greenville (South Carolina) to again claim that the four indictments against him, as well as the several civil lawsuits he is facing, are the product of the Joe Biden administrations attempt to derail his bid to win the White House. The town hall event in Greenville was moderated, recorded and later broadcast in prime time on Fox News, the conservative network that acts as a loudspeaker for the Republicans. During the event, Trump who on Friday was sentenced by a New York judge to pay $355 million for business fraud lamented the death of Navalny, which President Biden and other Western leaders blame on the regime of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Even some Republicans from the old guard, who were the majority before Trumpist took over the party, blamed the Kremlin for the opponents death. Navalny is a very sad situation, and he is a very brave, he was a very brave, Trump said in response to a question from the Fox News journalist. He went back [to Russia in 2021 after recovering in Berlin from an attempted poisoning with Novichok nerve agent], he could have stayed away, and frankly probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that [his death] could happen and it did happen. And its a horrible thing. But its happening in our country too, added Trump, who suggested that his indictments which include two cases stemming from his efforts to overturn his 2020 defeat are proof that the United States is turning into a communist country in many ways. I got indicted four times [...] all because of the fact that Im in politics, Trump said. They indicted me on things that are so ridiculous. The other two cases against Trump are over hush money paid to a porn actress so that she would to keep quiet about an alleged extramarital affair during his 2016 presidential campaign, and his mishandling of classified documents that he unlawfully took from the White House when he left the presidency. But what seems to be hurting Trump the most, right now, is the $355 million fine he was ordered to pay on Friday after Judge Arthur Engoron found that he had fraudulently inflated his assets to obtain favorable rates from banks and insurers. With interest, the amount comes to $454 million a figure that leaves Trump with almost zero liquidity. He will have to pay the penalty within 30 days to appeal the decision. It is a form of Navalny. It is a form of communism or fascism, he said of the case. After alarming NATO and the U.S.s allies in Europe by promising to allow Russia to do whatever the hell they want to NATO countries that did not meet defense spending targets, Trump made no mention of Putin at Tuesdays town hall meeting. This is nothing new. During his presidency, Trump was more complimentary than critical of the Kremlins strongman. The context, however, is different: Ukraine has suffered a considerable setback in the war, losing the city of Avdiivka, which is now under Russian control, while Washingtons promised aid to Kyiv is hanging by a thread in the House of Representatives due to Republican opposition. Trump did mention Putin last week after the Russian leader said he preferred Biden to Trump, calling the Democrat more predictable. Trump said he took the statement as a compliment. The November election is shaping up to be another showdown between Biden and Trump. Even if the Republican were convicted in one of the pending trials the first starts on March 25 in New York this would not prevent him from running for office. When asked if he could become a potential political prisoner like Navalny another softball question from the Fox News moderator the Republican presidential hopeful avoided answering. If I were losing in the polls, they wouldnt even be talking about me and I wouldnt have had any legal fees, he answered. The Trump campaign spent $50 million on legal fees last year. If I were out, I think although they hate me so much, I think if I got out theyd still, lets pursue this guy, we cant stand this guy. Tuesdays town hall meeting comes four days before Trump competes against Nikki Haley in the South Carolina Republican presidential primary. The Fox journalist opened the event by offering Trump an opportunity to explain or clarify the only reference he had made so far to Navalnys death, the aforementioned post in Truth Social published on Monday. Without mentioning Putin or the family of the Russian dissident, Trump wrote: The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our country. He went on to claim that radical left politicians, prosecutors, and judges leading us down a path to destruction and repeat his false claim that the 2020 election was rigged. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition 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 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant First detection of object that may contain nuclear fuel debris on water Love and family are more important than money: what is the comedy series Inheritance about? Jordi Evole apologizes to Camela in Lo de Evole for an article he wrote in 2000 Organ donation registry: how does it work? Answers to the most important questions Annoyed by a kissing couple: woman attacks the person sitting next to her on the train A man who was drunk on a train and threatened to hit a police officer has been detained by the railway police 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 "Watch me overcome difficulties step by step and fight back." This Chinese golden flower keeps his word. A Blaugrana nightmare and the bogeyman Joao Felix: "It was a game for him, he made a difference" NBA: Victor Wembanyama and Gregg Popovich confirm the Spurs will come to Paris next season 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 Real estate crisis: Number of building permits also fell significantly at the beginning of the year The "egg-smashing" trend is blowing into a small town in Zhejiang, how to play the cards in your hand? Analyst: the drivers of rising oil prices were signs of high demand in the United States 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 CEC: Putin scored 87.28% of the votes based on the results of processing 100% of the protocols Anyone who moves will be stabbed. Al-Shifa Hospital is again under occupation bombing Palestinian official: Israel has increased its repression of prisoners since the beginning of Ramadan Saldo reported to Putin about the shelling of the Kherson region during the elections Lukashevich called on the OSCE to condemn the indiscriminate shelling of Russian cities by the Armed Forces of Ukraine September 28 massacres in Guinea: the trial focuses on a reclassification of the facts as crimes against humanity The PSOE announces that the Conflict of Interest Office files the PP complaint against Sanchez for not inhibiting himself in the rescue of Air Europa The head of the NATO PA, Shcherba, called on the alliance to mentally move on to the time of military threat In light of the confrontation with Israel... where has the Hezbollah-Free Patriotic Movement alliance reached? 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. Faced with the risks of war with Russia, Latvia restores its military service for men 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. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 14:46 | All, Japan The industry minister on Wednesday urged Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. to ensure radioactive water leaks do not reoccur following an incident earlier this month at its disaster-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Ken Saito told TEPCO President Tomoaki Kobayakawa that he wanted "management to take active steps to prevent a recurrence and ensure safety," after around 1.5 tons of water leaked from the complex, which suffered reactor fuel meltdowns in the wake of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster. Saito said that the incident has "caused anxiety in Japan and abroad and will hinder the completion of the decommissioning of the plant," calling on TEPCO to investigate any possible factors that led to human error and to invest in technology that eliminates the need for manual operation. Kobayakawa offered his apologies, saying, "I will take the lead and assume responsibility for investment" in safety measures. The president said he would reconfirm equipment and procedures that were swiftly put in place following the 2011 nuclear crisis, adding that he would also consider upgrading technology. The incident occurred months after Japan began releasing treated radioactive water from the crippled power station into the sea amid concerns over safety. The power company sees the discharge as an integral part of the decommissioning. Since August last year, TEPCO has discharged a total of 23,400 tons of water treated through an advanced liquid processing system capable of removing most radionuclides, except tritium, and plans to begin the release of the final batch for fiscal 2023 in late February. According to the plant operator, the leak occurred on the morning of Feb. 7 from an outlet connected to a device to treat contaminated water that has been accumulating at the complex. Human error was deemed as the cause of the incident, as 10 out of the 16 valves of the device that should have been closed were open. In October, an incident occurred at the nuclear plant in which workers were exposed to liquid waste containing radioactive materials. Related coverage: TEPCO apologizes for radioactive water leak at Fukushima plant IAEA reaffirms Japan's treated water release in line with standards Former longtime leader of Malaysia's Sarawak state dies at 87 Kuala Lumpur, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 Taib Mahmud, who ruled Malaysia's resource-rich Sarawak state as chief minister for more than 30 years and was accused of graft and deforestation by rights groups, died Wednesday after an illness, his daughter said. The tycoon, 87, remained an ally of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's ruling coalition long after he stepped down as chief minister in 2014 and assumed the largely ceremonial role of governor. He died before dawn at a private hospital in the capital Kuala Lumpur, according to a statement on his daughter's Facebook page. Taib helped spur the industrialisation of Sarawak, which is located on the island of Borneo, transforming it from a mostly agricultural producer to a hydropower and aluminium powerhouse. But that progress came at a cost, according to environmental groups. Peter Kallang, chairman of SAVE Rivers, a local indigenous civil group, told AFP that while Taib focussed on economic development and building dams, it had a negative impact on the rainforest and indigenous population. "There has been a drastic loss of forest due to logging and cleared land replaced by large oil palm plantations," he said. "From 90 percent forest cover in the 1960s, today Sarawak has about 10 percent left of its primary forest." The London-based Sarawak Report, along with the Bruno Manser Fund, a Swiss NGO, previously documented huge investments around the world by Taib's circle. "Taib needs to be taken by the ankles and shook, so the money falls out," investigative journalist Clare Rewcastle Brown told AFP in 2018 when she arrived back in Malaysia after being blacklisted for years. On Wednesday, James Chin, a Malaysia expert at the University of Tasmania in Australia said: "Only the political elites in Sarawak will miss Taib." "For the majority of the Dayak community in Sarawak, I don't think they will miss him, as many felt they were politically marginalised by Taib." Chin said Taib comes from an era of so-called strongman politics. "He belongs to the generation of people like Lee Kuan Yew, Suharto, Marcos and Mahathir Mohamad," he said. "Taib believed in full political control and his legacy is smeared by his business interest through his family." No need for climate 'flight shame', Swedish govt says Stockholm, Feb 21 (AFP) Feb 21, 2024 Six years after the term climate "flight shame" was coined in Sweden, the country's government said Wednesday there was no need for it, unveiling investment to help its airline industry. "There are few reasons to feel flight shame and as the (green) transition increases there will be even fewer," Infrastructure Minister Andreas Carlson told reporters. His remarks came as his right-wing government, in power since 2022 and propped up by the populist Sweden Democrats, announced plans to invest more than one billion kronor ($96 million) to boost the airline industry's competitiveness. Flight shame, or "flygskam", became a buzz word in Sweden in 2018 that spread internationally, referring to feeling guilt over the environmental impact of flying. It contributed to a trend that saw people increasingly opting to travel by train to ease their conscience, a movement spearheaded by Sweden's own Greta Thunberg, the 21-year-old climate activist who refuses to fly. The Swedish government said in a statement the investment was aimed at helping the airline industry recover after being battered in recent years by the Covid-19 pandemic, high fuel prices and the economic fallout from the war in Ukraine. The money will go to Sweden's so-called GAS redistribution system for airports' security and baggage handling costs, which are paid per passenger but which remained unchanged during the pandemic despite drastically reduced passenger numbers. "A billion kronor debt has accumulated in this system. This debt is now being paid off by the state's capital injection," Carlson said. The cost will thereby not be passed on to airlines and passengers. "Sweden is a sparsely populated and oblong country that is greatly dependent on transportation that makes it easy for both people and companies to travel," Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson said, adding that airlines were in a "tough economic situation" after the pandemic. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 11:09 | All, World A North Korean missile fired into eastern Ukraine by Russia contained hundreds of electronic components that trace back to companies headquartered in Europe, the United States, Japan, China and elsewhere, according to a British research institute. The findings by Conflict Armament Research show that North Korea is able to acquire parts from overseas to manufacture weapons, circumventing U.N. sanctions imposed to curb its ballistic missile and nuclear development programs. The institute analyzed the debris from a North Korean-made missile recovered from the eastern Ukraine city of Kharkiv on Jan. 2 and found that over 290 of its electronic components bear the brands of 26 companies headquartered in China, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United States. Of the components, 75.5 percent were related to companies in the United States, 11.9 percent to companies in Germany and 3.1 percent to those in Japan, with most manufactured within the last three years, the institute said. Based on the findings, the institute concluded that the missile could not have been assembled before March last year. North Korea "has developed a robust acquisition network capable of circumventing, without detection, sanction regimes that have been in place for nearly two decades," said the institute in the report. The entity did not disclose the names of the companies. Related coverage: North Korea fires cruise missiles to Sea of Japan, 5th launch this year Putin gives Russian-made car to N. Korea's Kim amid closer ties Japan paying attention to remarks by North Korea leader's sister: gov't One of the hazards of living in New Orleans is party food. We have just recently left Thanksgiving behind us and have maneuvered through the culinary minefield that is so quaintly known as the holiday season, and now, just as the rest of the country is making resolutions about eating healthy foods, we are entering the Carnival season. CCTV: Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a successful visit to France and held the 25th China-France Strategic Dialogue in Paris. French President Emmanuel Macron met with him. What major outcomes has the visit achieved and what role has it played in advancing China-France relations? Mao Ning: China and France are comprehensive strategic partners. This year marks the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations and bears great significance as the two countries build on past achievements and aim for a brighter future. President Xi Jinping and President Macron exchanged messages of congratulations and delivered video speeches, stressing that the two sides need to work together for a more solid and dynamic China-France comprehensive strategic partnership for the next 60 years. Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to France was the first high-level visit as the two countries mark the 60th anniversary. It shows the strategic significance of China-France relations and gets the second 60 years of diplomatic relations off to a good start. The visit has been a full success. The visit helped deepen strategic communication and consolidate political mutual trust between the two sides. In the past six decades since China and France established diplomatic relations, the world has undergone tremendous changes, but China and France have never changed in their commitment to independence, to a multipolar world and to the diversity of civilizations. The two countries have continued to consolidate mutual trust, expand consensus and enable their relations to grow more mature and stable. The two heads of state have built strong mutual trust and sincere friendship, charted the course for bilateral strategic cooperation, and had important and positive influence on the world. President Macron expressed hope for the Strategic Dialogue to be an opportunity for the two sides to deliver on the important common understandings between him and President Xi and further grow Frances close and sustained ties with China. The French side reiterated that they attach great importance to the France-China comprehensive strategic partnership and will continue to uphold the one-China policy. The two countries will continue expanding practical cooperation and cultural and people-to-people exchange. During the visit, the two sides agreed to step up cooperation on climate response, bio-diversity preservation, sustainable development, agricultural and food products, clean energy, nuclear energy research and development, artificial intelligence, aerospace and forest carbon sink. China and France are major Eastern and Western civilizations respectively. This year is the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. The two sides agreed to hold hundreds of cultural and people-to-people exchange events throughout the year and increase the number of direct flights to further facilitate cross-border travel. China and France will act as a force of stability for China-Europe relations and for todays world. China and France are both independent major countries, permanent members of the UN Security Council and important forces in a multipolar world. The two countries share similar positions on major issues. The French side stressed that facing global challenges, France has strategic independence and stands ready to strengthen strategic coordination with China to avoid major-country rivalry, prevent bloc confrontation and improve global governance. China sees Europe as an important pillar in building a multipolar world and supports Europe in enhancing strategic autonomy and holding its future in its own hands. The two sides agreed that building a multipolar world is indispensable for peace and stability and that the two sides will continue to step up strategic coordination on this. China News Service: Its reported that on February 20, the US vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution put forward by Algeria demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The US was the only country to reject the draft. This is the third time that the US has vetoed a draft resolution on the Gaza conflict. Whats your comment? Mao Ning: Chinas Permanent Representative to the United Nations has elaborated on Chinas position in the explanation of vote. The protracted Palestinian-Israeli conflict has resulted in devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza and severely impacted regional peace and stability. The Security Council must take immediate actions to push for a ceasefire. This is a moral obligation that the Council cannot shy away from and a legal responsibility that the Council must assume. Even more so, this is a political requirement that the Council must fulfill in accordance with the Charter. Algeria, on behalf of the Arab states, put forward the draft resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, immediate release of all hostages, guaranteed access for humanitarian supplies, and the rejection of forced displacement. This is both urgently required by the situation on the ground and it is also based on the minimum requirements of humanity. The draft resolution was supported by the overwhelming majority of Council members. China voted in favor of the draft resolution as well. The United States veto pushes the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one. Various parties, including China, expressed strong disappointment by and dissatisfaction with the veto. We will continue to work with the rest of the international community to push the Council to take further actions that are responsible and meaningful for an early end of the fighting in Gaza, deescalation of the humanitarian situation, implementation of the two-state solution and lasting peace and security in the Middle East. Beijing Youth Daily: The World Bank announced yesterday the appointment of Zhang Wencai, Vice President of the Export-Import Bank of China, as the Managing Director and World Bank Group Chief Administrative Officer. What is Chinas comment? Mao Ning: We welcome the World Banks appointment. China is the worlds biggest developing country and the World Bank is the worlds biggest multilateral institution for development. Over the past four decades and more, the two sides established a close partnership for development and carried out productive cooperation. China supports the World Bank in underlining its purposes of facilitating development and strengthening its capability through reform, so as to help developing countries realize sustainable development and effectively address global challenges. We hope to continue deepening cooperation with the World Bank and make positive contribution to the global poverty reduction and development cause. Reuters: Is China sending any representative to attend the G20 meeting of foreign ministers in Brazil that starts today on Wednesday? Is Minister Wang Yi attending? If not, why not? Mao Ning: Foreign Minister Wang Yi, due to his schedule, could not attend the meeting and has designated Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu to represent China at the meeting. AFP: Yang Jun, the Chinese-born Australian citizen with pending suspended death sentence for espionage, will not appeal according to his family. They say that his health has deteriorated. Does China provide medical assistance to him and whats Yang Juns health status? Mao Ning: My colleague has shared information on this case. Let me stress that China is a country that upholds the rule of law. Chinese judicial authorities handle the case in accordance with the law and will continue to protect the lawful rights and interests of the person concerned in accordance with the law. Reuters: Also related to the G20 meeting, Russia has objected to putting Ukraine on the meeting agenda. Would China agree to discussions on Ukraine at the G20 meeting? Mao Ning: The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, not a platform for resolving geopolitical and security issues. This is a G20 consensus. We hope that the foreign ministers meeting will help enhance solidarity and cooperation and contribute to global economic growth and development. Bloomberg: Bloomberg has reported that the US has told its allies that Russia could deploy a nuclear weapon into space as early as this year. The people said that Russia is developing a space-based capability to knock out satellites using a nuclear weapon. As China has urged the international community to avoid the use of nuclear weapons in the past, we wonder if the Foreign Ministry has any comment on this report? Mao Ning: You mentioned that Russia might deploy nuclear weapons in space. I noted that Russia has made a response, emphasizing that Russia remains opposed to the deployment of nuclear weapons in space and urges everyone to adhere to all the agreements that exist in this sphere. Chinas policy and position on relevant issue are consistent and clear. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 21:58 | All, World, Japan Tokyo police searched in May of last year the site of what an Asia-focused human rights group described as a Chinese overseas police station used to monitor the activities of its citizens, investigative sources revealed Wednesday. The search into the organization, the registry of which shows it was established in 2018 to promote cooperation among overseas Chinese individuals and businesses, was conducted by the Tokyo police's Public Security Bureau over a case linking two former senior officials of the entity to fraudulent COVID-19 relief fund claims. The pair was referred to prosecutors on Wednesday. The presence of Chinese covert police stations worldwide, including in Japan, was highlighted in a report released by Spain-based Safeguard Defenders in 2022. The Chinese government, however, has denied the existence of such bases. In April last year, U.S. authorities arrested two individuals for allegedly operating such an unauthorized police station in New York for the Chinese government. The search last May in a building in Tokyo's Akihabara electric town district revealed that the organization had been handling renewal procedures for Chinese driver's licenses for Chinese residents in Japan, according to the sources. The entity vacated the building following the search, they said. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the two who were referred to prosecutors are of Chinese nationality -- a 44-year-old female business operator from Tokyo's Sumida Ward and a 59-year-old female company executive from Warabi, Saitama Prefecture. The older woman is suspected of falsely claiming in July 2020 that her sex-related business in Nagano Prefecture, central Japan, was a chiropractic clinic run by the woman from Sumida Ward in order to receive 1 million yen ($6,700) in COVID-19 relief funds from the government. The police have not disclosed whether the pair has admitted to the allegation. Ken Moelis, 65, has already stuck with the Middle East through thick and thin. In 2009, he boarded a plane to pitch for a $US25 billion restructuring of state holding company Dubai World as it teetered on the brink of default. His firm ended up advising the government on the complex restructuring plan involving more than 70 creditors. That agreement cemented his reputation with some of the United Arab Emirates top officials and laid the foundations for more transactions. Most of Wall Street kept their distance from Saudi Arabia after the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, but Ken Moelis stayed put. Credit: AP But hes also made public relations outreaches that were harder for bigger banks to make because of their global profile. In October 2018, Ken Moelis and the firms vice chairman Eric Cantor stood out as two of the only top US financiers who attended Saudi Arabias flagship investment conference in Riyadh, just weeks after the murder of Khashoggi by government agents in the Saudi Arabian embassy in Turkey. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman denied involvement, but many businessmen and investors shunned the country in the wake of the brutal killing. Most of Moeliss Wall Street peers, including JPMorgan Chase & Co. chief executive officer Jamie Dimon and BlackRocks boss Larry Fink, pulled out of the event amid the controversy. That move earned Moelis the trust of the kingdoms top decision makers in a region known to reward loyalty, the people said. Loading The firm has built strong relationships with the regions decision makers and has been involved in some landmark deals which put them on the map, said Tom de Waele, Bain & Co Inc.s managing partner for the Middle East. Once you have established the right track record and level of trust with key decision makers, you see a fly wheel effect kicking in. Biggest advisor The bank is now one of the biggest global investment banking operations in the Middle East, with double the number of advisors than some bigger Wall Street competitors. Besides IPOs, its also active in regional M&A and advises firms that are conducting strategic reviews. Restructurings are another of its key offerings in the region. Despite its large footprint, the bank has only four managing directors in the region and relies heavily on a cadre of more junior executive directors, vice presidents and associates. The Middle East and North Africa office is led by Rami Touma, a former Credit Suisse banker, who is also a Harley Davidson aficionado. Moeliss success in the Gulf is partly due to the commitment of its top US management, the people familiar with the matter said. Its founder and Cantor, a former US politician-turned banker, fly to the Middle East three-to-four times a year to pitch ideas. Their regular presence draws clients in a region where decisions are typically made by royals and a handful of top advisers, the people said. Still, fees in the region can sometimes be lower than expected. Moelis was among the banks that arranged Aramcos $US29 billion IPO in 2019. Analysts at the time predicted the offering could generate tens of millions of dollars in fees for Moelis, but in the end banks shared a fee pool of just over $US100 million, an unusually small amount relative to the deals size. Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. A frenzy of dealmaking has gripped the Middle East. Credit: Reuters Moelis didnt comment for this story and doesnt disclose revenue from the Middle East, which are dwarfed by those from Europe and the Americas. Speaking at the 2018 event in Riyadh, Ken Moelis described relationships as a companys most valuable asset even if theres no way to account for them on the balance sheet. Gulf leaders have welcomed Moeliss loyalty. At the Qatar Economic Forum last May, Saudi Arabias energy minister Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud greeted Ken as my guy, and praised him for being much better than the other bankers advising the kingdom on the Aramco IPO. At the same conference, the Wall Street veteran praised the Middle Easts ability to make decisions, operate quickly, cut through the red tape, and lastly, think long term without having to deal with union problems. This is one of the few places in the world thats actually making investments for the next five to 10 years, he said. Regional bets Still, Moeliss first-mover advantage in the Middle East is being eroded as more and more rivals muscle in on the deal surge and the more than $US2 trillion held by sovereign wealth funds. Rothschild & Co. has also been involved in landmark deals for years, rivalling Moelis in size and access to key clients. The boutique moved a senior equity capital markets banker to Dubai from Hong Kong in late 2022 to capture a bigger slice of the IPO boom. Advisory specialists from Lazard to Jefferies Financial Group are also beefing up teams. The IPO market in the Gulf is relatively insulated from regional geopolitical risk, and in areas like local technology and services continues to be a magnet for new growing companies that need capital, said Karen Young, a senior research scholar at Columbia Universitys Centre on Global Energy Policy. Once you have established the right track record and level of trust with key decision makers, you see a fly wheel effect kicking in. Tom de Waele, Bain & Cos managing partner for the Middle East. Since opening its hub in the Dubai International Financial Centre in 2011 and hiring JPMorgan veteran Yorick Van Slingelandt, Moeliss regional business has grown from an eight-person team to a workforce of about 45. But not all of Moeliss bets in the region have paid off. The company was involved in a number of deals involving special-purpose acquisition companies, most of which were pulled. Loading Meanwhile, although rivals begrudgingly acknowledge Moeliss success in the region, they also say it has sometimes operated more like a consultancy than an investment bank to win more lucrative work on big-ticket deals. It also charges a rolling fee for strategic advice a model thats fairly unique to the Middle East where rulers with grand ambitions surround themselves with consultants, according to executives. Last year, Moelis appointed Moaath Alangari to run its office in Riyadh after securing a license to operate in the kingdom, giving the firm a front-row seat to the crown princes ambitious plans. The risks for boutiques like Moelis is that theyve doubled down on Saudi Arabia and the region as one of their key growth markets, given the potential, said Luminas Traub. It would be interesting to see whether when deal activity picks up in 2024 across Europe and the US if that investment thesis is still valid and how the key resources are deployed. Bloomberg 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 Standing in the centre of a stadium before thousands of his screaming subordinates, Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, the treacherous princeling of the Dune saga, is a blend of pop star grandeur, brilliance and reckless pride. In the hands of Elvis actor Austin Butler, the leap from Graceland to the desert planet of Arrakis doesnt seem as far as you might have first imagined. In fact, there is something about the young villain of Frank Herberts iconic 1965 novel that has always bound him to rock stars. Mick Jagger was to play him in Alejandro Jodorowskys planned (but failed) 1970s adaptation. And then, when David Lynch brought the story to the screen in 1984, in another complicated, flawed production, the role went to another pop star, Sting. When French-Canadian director Denis Villeneuve gave the role of Feyd-Rautha in Dune: Part Two to Butler, the 32-year-old actor zeroed in immediately on the characters feline qualities. The way that a panther would move, the power they have, to be incredibly still, and then pounce, Butler says. And at a certain point, a shark, how there is such a coldness to their eyes, [that] they could just rip your head off at any moment. French-Canadian director Denis Villeneuve and Austin Butler on the set of Dune: Part Two. Holding somebody elses life in your hands, [you can feel] the sense of power that Feyd-Rautha feels in those moments, but also how little he values other peoples lives, Butler says. And spending so much time in the arena, fighting to the death, thats inherently like a rock star, where you have an entire arena screaming for you. And in his own ears, what was he listening to as he prepared for the role? I had everything from tribal music and metal music, heavy metal to classical music, operatic music on my playlist, Butler says. It was quite a wide-ranging playlist and each [genre] would summon a different feeling that I would listen to while I trained or just before scenes. Completing the pop soundscape for Butler was the films soundtrack by Hans Zimmer, the ubiquitous Oscar-winning master of cinema music, who has composed for everything from Gladiator and The Last Samurai to The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception and Man of Steel. Advertisement Zimmer also scored Villeneuves first Dune film in 2021, with one critical, creative bonus: Zimmer wrote more than 70 hours of music before he even began composing the score, just to help Villeneuve get in the right frame of mind to write the script. Thats commitment. Hes so powerful and so incredible, Butler says. Timothee Chalamet and Austin Butler in Dune: Part Two. Dune: Part Two picks up where Dune (2021) ended, with royal heir Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) taking refuge with the native Fremen of Arrakis in the wake of Baron Harkonnens (Stellan Skarsgard) decimation of House Atreides. The sequel focuses on Zendaya as Chani, a mysterious young Fremen woman connected to Pauls destiny, and Butler as Feyd-Rautha, Harkonnens scheming nephew. Butler comes to the role after an incredible run in a few short years, leaping from a Broadway performance in The Iceman Cometh and a small role in Quentin Tarantinos Once Upon a Time in Hollywood to playing Elvis Presley in Baz Luhrmanns critically acclaimed Elvis, and Gale Cleven in the new Steven Spielberg/Tom Hanks war miniseries Masters of the Air. His stunning performance in Elvis earned him a Golden Globe and BAFTA Award for best actor, while Masters of the Air has become 2024s breakout streaming TV hit, chalking up audience numbers that have ranked it as Apple TV+s most successful original series launch ever. Up close, Butler is equal parts old-fashioned matinee idol, pin-up boy and actor of substance, which is rare. In Hollywood, you can be Chris Hemsworth or Lucas Hedges, but youre rarely permitted to be both. Advertisement The Anaheim, California-born actors rise to prominence is built on shrewd collaborations with Luhrmann on Elvis and with Spielberg and Hanks on Masters of the Air but also, to some extent, on how the camera captures his image. Its the difference between being an actor and a movie star. And that alchemy, unexpectedly, seems to have some uniquely Australian properties. Butlers performance as Presley was captured by Oscar-nominated cinematographer Mandy Walker, an Australian. In Masters of the Air, by Adam Arkapaw, another Australian. And in Dune: Part Two, Oscar-winner Greig Fraser, a third. Whats going on, I ask him. Are they glazing the lens with Vegemite? Austin Butler at the world premiere of Dune: Part Two in London. Credit: Getty It just goes to show that some of the greatest cinematographers are Australians, and Ive been fortunate enough to get to work with them, Butler says, laughing. Australian crews, the way they work together, its such a well-oiled machine. Greg had worked with Mandy, Adam knows Mandy, Mandy knows Grieg ... theres a family element there. Australia feels like its a family, Butler adds, saying those relationships have helped him navigate a dense and difficult body of work of which he is immensely proud. For me, it creates a kind of through line that connects these projects. We already have a rapport, but I also feel like I am very fortunate because theyre some of the best cinematographers alive today. What these roles demand of an actor varies from one job to the next, Butler says. He had previously described Elvis as the most intimidating thing hed ever done, noting that, essentially, he did not sleep for two years. But as we discuss Dune: Part Two, the investment in the role seems substantial requiring changes to his physicality and the nature of his movement. An early glimpse of 12 minutes of completed footage confirms the role is demanding. With Elvis, I felt such a responsibility because playing anybody who has lived, you feel a responsibility to them as a human being, Butler says. But then, on top of that, everybody has their own idea of who Elvis Presley is and so theres an extra responsibility there. And then you have so much footage that you can look to. Advertisement With Dune, its different. But I did feel a responsibility to the fans of the book and the fans of the film, and to cinema in general, Butler says, acknowledging the books unique place in modern cultural history. Its not that it has to break you down but, whatever it demands, you want the passion to be there, that you will give it everything it needs. And for me, I just want to give it every ounce of my soul. Florence Pugh, Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya and Austin Butler, stars of Dune: Part Two. Credit: Getty Butler first read Frank Herberts book when he was a teenager. I had a friend who introduced me to the book when I was a kid, and so that was my first experience of reading it, many years ago, he says. So, really, it was a feeling of escaping into this other world, the escapism of entering this sci-fi world. At the time, he was too young to lean deeply into or properly grasp the storys larger themes of faith, wealth inequality and scarcity of resources, as feuding royal houses battled to control a rare spice mined on the arid and brutally inhospitable world of Arrakis. Returning to it after watching Villeneuves first Dune film was a re-invigoration of his love for the book. I just thought that film was a masterpiece, Butler says. So reading it again, it hit me completely differently. I was hearing and feeling the textures [of the book] so much more, and the themes of power and the misuse of power, the warring families and the Shakespearean sense of it. Austin Butler and model partner Kaia Gerber at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar Party. Credit: Getty Images A by-product of the modern world, the script for Dune: Part Two first arrived in Butlers hands as an attachment to an email. I tried different ways to do it digitally; eventually I printed it out as a script, he says. I can make notes in it, its tactile and it was helpful for me to have a script that I could hold in my hand. It feels more tangible when its physical. Advertisement The journey for him as an actor to Feyd-Rautha was a far more ambiguous undertaking than it was to find Presley in Elvis. Its a lot more ambiguous in the beginning, Butler says. For Elvis, there was a vast trove of historical film material, Presleys extraordinary discography, biographies from every perspective and the first-hand recollections of Presleys family. For Dune: Part Two, there was just the first film, which offered tonal notes on the wider inhospitable world of Arrakis but not of Feyd-Rautha himself; Herberts original novel, in which the character first appeared; and the Prelude to Dune prequel trilogy, written by Herberts son Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. Austin Butler as Elvis. Credit: Warner Bros On screen, there are only two portrayals of significance: Stings performance in David Lynchs wild and wonderful 1984 adaptation and Matt Keeslar in the 2000 miniseries Frank Herberts Dune, which was produced for US television. The Lynch film was, by most industry methodologies, a failure, coming in the wake of Star Wars (which had its own spin on spice mining, desert planets and an oppressive empire) and a decades-long struggle to bring any adaptation to the screen. Loading The Jodorowsky concept the one with its eye on Mick Jagger would have had Orson Welles as Baron Harkonnen, Salvador Dali as Emperor Shaddam IV and Jodorowskys own son, Brontis, as Paul Atreides. A vision so wild its difficult to grasp. Jodorowsky also wanted a soundtrack by Pink Floyd, an idea so bonkers it was not until 1980 that Dino De Laurentiis asked Queen to do the same thing for his flawed masterpiece Flash Gordon. There were, says Butler, many long conversations with Villeneuve. I knew that he was my captain, and its his vision that Im in service of, the vision of Frank Herbert and Denis. And so I go to the novel and Denis, and try to get the essence of what hes creating, Butler says. Advertisement In terms of the author of the original book, however, there was a complex knot of cultural and racial nuance that had to be unravelled by Marks and Kondo. Clavell was, essentially, a white man writing a Japanese story. And as a former prisoner of war, he had come to the story in the aftermath of a very violent engagement with Japanese culture. What is critical, Marks says, is that Clavell survived his wartime experiences but still met Japanese culture with curiosity and not anger. That spirit of engagement with another culture, by means of listening and researching and observing; we wanted to do that. We wanted to live by that same spirit, Marks says. Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga in Shogun. Credit: Kurt Iswarienko / FX Kondo, who was born in Hawaii and has both American and Japanese heritage, approached Shogun thinking she had the opportunity to re-encounter her own heritage and interpret the story as a woman of Japanese descent. And then I realised, this is not my story. Im Japanese American, born in Hawaii. A couple of generations and many degrees removed, she says. What followed, Kondo says, was a profound process of learning to get quiet and to learn that, oh, wait, you not being the perfect person is your strength. You not being the one to tell the story, it could be a strength, in that you know that your job is to find the people who can. Marks draws a comparison between that point and Clavells use of Blackthorne in the novel, describing him as a young man who comes to a country that belongs to him in no way, shape or form, wanting to impose some sense of agency or will or activity on it, who finds at the end of the day that every event that happens over the course of the story wouldve happened whether he showed up or not. And his journey is towards this acceptance of his own spiritual place in it, his smallness, his irrelevance, Marks says. And thats something quite beautiful that we all go through, whether its about culture or not, this acceptance that we ultimately exert very little control or agency over the path of our own destiny. Tadanobu Asano as Kashigi Yabushige in Shogun. Credit: Katie Yu / FX Instead, Marks says, what we find is an understanding that we belong to a community, whatever that community may be. And I think thats down to the very haunting final page of the book. Its just a very remarkable, remarkably contemporary journey for a book that was written in 1975 by someone whose first engagement with Japan as a culture was as a prisoner of war. A very beautiful journey for him to have taken. One of the pivotal ways the Kondo-Marks adaptation veers away from the original is its elevation of the female roles in the story. I feel that Justin wanted to create something that wasnt 100 per cent the novel, and the way the female characters are shown in our show, I think, may be a little different to what people will remember from the book, New Zealand actor Anna Sawai says. Critically, where the story emphasis shifts towards the female characters, Marks drew in female writers to lead the storytelling. I respect Justin for delegating the female story to female writers, Sawai says. And thats not because its 2024, it is the fact that these women had more to say, but it wasnt shown before. Shogun writer/producer Justin Marks. The series also leans deeply into historical detail. As with Toranaga and Yabushige, who are based on the real historical figures Tokugawa Ieyasu and Honda Masanobu, Sawais character Toda Mariko is based on Hosokawa Gracia, the Catholic daughter of the samurai caste Akechi family. I read about her and I would read just before going on set because it would give me hints about who she is, Sawai says. Mariko is a fictional character, so theyre not exactly the same. I kind of merged them together. Marks describes Clavells original work as a near-perfect blueprint for a limited series. The books fundamentals, when you strip it down to the movements, the story, the characters, the plotting, is just a masterclass in long form storytelling, especially in the long form storytelling of an ensemble, he says. The biggest part of its appeal was turning those pages as you read the book, it felt like reading one of those great bestsellers from the 1970s where its that mix of accessibility with epic saga, in that [The Godfather author] Mario Puzo kind of way, Marks adds. It truly felt like this wonderful balance. Loading It was important, too, Marks says, to try and understand Clavells original work in the context of a contemporary lens and a more culturally authentic writers room. What we were looking to do was to take the spirit of James Clavell, when it came to this spirit of curiosity, the spirit of detail, this spirit of trying to tell this well-rounded ensemble story in a foreign country, and bring it with more of a modern lens to what our standards might be today, Marks says. That spoke to the way we executed the scripts with our writers room, bringing in a predominantly Asian-American writers room, predominantly Asian-American and female, to kind of speak through the tropes [and reflect] where weve come in the 40 years since the book was written, Marks says. Advertisement Eating outJust open What the focaccia? Six hot new Italian sandwich shops to add to your hit list Including some suburban gems and a third spot for an OG of Melbourne sandwich artistry. Tomas Telegramma February 22, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share As featured in the Melbourne March hit list. See all stories . If your Roman Empire the TikTok term for what you cant stop thinking about is Italian-style sandwiches, youre in luck. Theyve always been big in Melbourne, but a horde of new openings has added even more to the mix. Here are six new spots to try. Pork cotoletta joins a host of other Italian fillings at Saluministi. Supplied Saluministi, Docklands Saluministis first event was at a school fete back in March 2014, meaning we are on the verge of celebrating 10 years in business! says Frank Bressi, who, along with Peter Mastro, owns the popular Melbourne panini bar that channels those of Rome and Florence. On Thursday, February 22, their existing locations on Bourke Street in Docklands and Flinders Lane in the CBD will be joined by a third, at Melbourne Quarter, a new precinct across the road from Southern Cross Station. And to celebrate opening day, there are free signature panini (porchetta or mortadella you choose) from 11am to 2pm. Must-try sandwich: The Porchetta house-seasoned and rolled free-range roast pork, artichoke paste, pecorino and rocket ($17) Advertisement Shop 3, 697 Collins Street, Docklands, saluministi.com.au Piccolo Panini Bar, Hawthorn Crowds are already par for the course and wait times tend to blow out at weekends at this Glenferrie Road joint, where no panini, no party is the mantra. Thanks to a strong social media presence in the lead-up to the opening, Piccolo Panini Bars team of young guns has been drawing hordes of sandwich lovers with delightfully oily slabs of focaccia filled from a classic deli cabinet. The snug space is painted red and white, its walls dotted with prints of all things Italian (like moka pots and fast cars). Must-try sandwich: The Cotoletta chicken schnitzel, home-made salsa verde, pickled onion, rocket ($16) 636 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, instagram.com/piccolo.paninibar Advertisement Zitas is a bold and bright destination for focaccia. Supplied Zitas, South Yarra Splashes of yellow and orange mark the spot at this sunny south-side sandwich shop. It was named after co-owner Sara Pestarinos nonna and inspired by a desire to bring the old-school street food of Rome and Genoa to Melbourne. We make our own focaccia bread every morning in our tiny shop, says Pestarino. The long fermentation gives you a very light and easy-to-digest focaccia. The Genovese-style stuff comes by the slice, on loaded salumi and cheese boards, or filled with all sorts of delicious Italian ingredients. A lengthy list of spritzes (from Aperol to strawberry-elderflower) encourages lingering. Must-try sandwich: The Roman Empire mortadella, artichoke sauce, stracciatella and pistachio ($16) 16 Toorak Road, South Yarra, zitasfocaccia.com Advertisement Jujus Deli, Thornbury Another new sanger shop dedicated to focaccia? Yes. But fillings are not strictly Italian at Jujus Deli, a simply decked-out eatery serving sandwiches bigger than your head. Yuzu slaw adds a citrussy zing to the chicken schnitzel focaccia while ajvar (a flavour-packed veg spread generally made in the Balkan states) soups up the salami. Owner Joseph Rahme is also behind modern Middle Eastern restaurant Isme, which has closed in Fitzroy but is set to relocate to a new spot next to Jujus Deli mid-year. Must-try sandwich: Salad whipped basil ricotta, ajvar, lettuce, alfalfa, cucumber, capsicum, tomato, carrot, beetroot, radish, red onion, avocado, hot pickled peppers and mayo ($17) 750 High Street, Thornbury, instagram.com/jujus_deli Advertisement The sopressa and mushroom focaccia at Lil Lane. Supplied Lil Lane, Melbourne Tucked away on an incredibly narrow city laneway, this little takeaway spot, which only opened at the start of February, is already making waves with its big, made-to-order focaccias. From Eurohouse the group behind Berlin Bar, and clubs House of Maximon and Pulp, in the same building Lil Lane leans into co-owner Giulia Dal Corsos Venetian heritage. Our commitment to authenticity extends to baking our own focaccia daily [and] crafting home-made condiments, including pesto and mushroom sauce, she says. Thats Amore provides all the cheeses. Must-try sandwich: La Veneta sopressa, stracciatella, mushroom sauce, rocket and confit garlic ($17) 18 Corrs Lane, Melbourne, instagram.com/lillanekitchen Advertisement 3 Salamis, Essendon Theres only one kind of salami on the menu at the north-wests newest sandwich deli; the name refers to the three owners, whose shared love of panini, cold cuts and espresso has culminated in the opening of their own shop in Essendon. Behind the counter, sizeable chunks of schiacciata (Tuscan-style flatbread) sit in head-height cabinets, waiting to be sliced up and stuffed with your fillings of choice, including generously slathered spreads (such as pistachio pesto), which are made in-house. Must-try sandwich: 3 Salamis casalingo salami, prosciutto cotto, mortadella, green split olives, provolone piccante, house-made marinated red capsicums and spicy chilli spread ($18) 15 Napier Street, Essendon, 3salamis.au Introducing Sandwich Watch a column dedicated to the essential Melbourne sandwiches you must try Correction: An earlier version of this article listed an incorrect address for Jujus in Thornbury. This has since been updated. Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Antoinette Lattouf, sacked by the ABC last year after sharing content from a human rights organisation on the Gaza conflict on social media and after a campaign against her appointment by pro-Israel lobbyists, is back on the national broadcaster. Lattouf has scored a small role in the ABCs latest drama series House of Gods, which premieres this weekend, and follows the lives of an ambitious Iraqi-Australian family. Loading But its Lattoufs role in the show which caught CBDs eye a radio presenter who unearths something controversial. Art imitates life? Or the other way around? I had to dig deep for my acting debut in ABC TV drama House of Gods, Lattouf wrote on Instagram on Wednesday. Robert graduated from the University of Sydney with an arts/law degree in 1961 and joined law firm Allen Allen & Hemsley, specialising primarily in commercial law and conveyancing. In 1965 he became a director of Albert Investments Pty Limited (AIP), the holding company of Alberts. In 1984, along with his lawyer brother Tony, he found the lure of working full time with Alberts too strong. Sir Alexis, then nearly 80, was still actively involved and Ted had been at Alberts for decades. Robert worked across various parts of the Alberts business including overseeing from 1984 the refurbishment of the historic sandstone building Wyoming, which the company had owned since the 1920s, and remains its headquarters today). After his fathers death in 1996 he became chair of AIP. He held the position for the rest of his life. Ted and Tony died young, aged 53 and 60 respectively, leaving Robert the sole representative of his generation at the company. Popular culture was Alberts focus. In the early 20th century the sale of sheet music was the main game, with Alberts acquiring the Australasian copyright to international hits by the likes of George Gershwin, Harold Arlens Over the Rainbow and a later goldmine, the Beach Boys Good Vibrations. Portrait of David and Robert Albert photographed in a back lane in Waterloo, Sydney. Credit: Nic Walker Older Australians may remember the companys Boomerang Songster, a compendium published for an astonishing 80 years. Alberts sold instruments too, with the humble harmonica one of its hottest-selling items. By the 1970s the Boomerang Songster was on its way out and hard rock on the way in. The company had started signing bands and Roberts brother Ted made Alberts a powerful force for a new generation. One of the companys highest-profile signings was AC/DC, which became part of the Alberts stable in late 1973 and remains so. After Teds death in 1990 Alberts took a more conservative direction as competitors crowded the music recording field. The company was always averse to debt and determined to stay family-owned. Nevertheless, successes over Alberts near-140-year history, including a last-minute, life-saving investment in Baz Luhrmanns Strictly Ballroom, enabled Robert to become a philanthropist whose generosity, humility and humanity were exemplary. This is where he devoted most of his energies in later years. Its worth noting that Roberts championing of Strictly Ballroom after Teds death was made essentially in tribute to Teds vision. Robert and Elizabeth were married at St. James Church, King Street, 1968. Credit: Fairfax With Libby, whom he married in 1968, Robert was an unstinting donor across a wide spectrum. The Australian Chamber Orchestra, University of Sydney, Sydney Dance Company, the development of the Australian-made Stuart & Sons piano, Mission Australia, Guide Dogs Australia and Sydney Childrens Hospital were just a few of the many to benefit. The sponsorship of Taronga Zoos endangered Corroboree frogs indicates Roberts range. Alberts always had a strong philanthropic streak but Roberts personal interest was kickstarted when he was in the Naval Reserve, starting in 1955 and ending in 1977. He would do two weeks paid annual training. It was tax-free and Dad says he decided each year to give away the money, and always gave it to the Sydney Day Nursery, which delivered early childhood education, child care and other services, said his daughter Jane. Robert believed committed, annual giving had the possibility of doing most good. He adored being on the water and enthusiastically embraced causes associated with the sea. He was a devoted member of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and a long-time committee member. He gave to the Navy League, the Maritime Museum and Sydney Heritage Fleet and was instrumental in the project to restore the 1874 barque James Craig. He didnt seek recognition or accolades. Robert was a direct person but also a very humble one. Ian McRae, general manager of the Australian Ballet He lived at St Pauls College while at university and kept a close connection with it. Robert was St Pauls College bursar for 15 years from 1987 and a member of the college council for 21 years. The establishment of St Pauls College Foundation in 1977 was one of his most transformational achievements. Among its roles is the administration of a scholarship program and if there wasnt enough money for all deserving applicants, Robert would quietly make a personal contribution. At The Australian Ballet, Robert again committed his time as well as his money, serving on the companys board for 25 years. His and Libbys donations often related to music, one of Roberts greatest passions. He didnt seek recognition or accolades. Robert was a direct person but also a very humble one, said Ian McRae, The Australian Ballets general manager from 1991-2002. I really admired that in him. He was someone I really loved. Robert and Libby Albert. Credit: Albert family Robert was not averse to a bit of structure in his private life, possibly attributable to his years at boarding school. Family dinner, for instance, was invariably served at 7.10pm. Every day of his marriage he made Libby exactly the same breakfast, arranged in exactly the same way, a symbol of his unchanging feeling for the love of his life. He had valued friends across the board and was reckoned to have a dry, mischievous wit. Bowing to Elsas heritage, the family enjoyed dropping Swedish words into everyday conversation and no Albert gathering was complete without a rendition of the drinking song Helan Gar, loosely translated as here goes the whole one. Robert received the Order of Australia (AM) in 1993 for services to the community and his AO in 2001. The Reserve Decoration (RD) and Reserve Forces Decoration (RFD) were awarded for naval reserve service. The University of Sydney made him an honorary fellow in 2002 and in 2008 he received the Australia Business Arts Foundations philanthropic leadership medal. With Libby, Robert was a life patron of the ACO and an Australian Ballet honorary life member. In 2021 the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron made Robert a life member. Robert Albert gave generously to maritime causes: (from left) Tony, Robert (behind), Sir Alexis and Ted Albert. Credit: Albert family Robert is survived by his wife of 55 years, children Kirsty, David and Jane and his grandchildren. David is currently Alberts CEO, Kirsty an Alberts executive director and Jane a journalist and member of the AIP board. A celebration of Roberts life will be held on February 27. A man who took a voluntary assisted dying substance intended for someone else was found dead at home by his adult daughter, an inquest has heard. I thought he was asleep in the chair. I put my arms around him. He was cold, the woman said. The Coroners Court in Brisbane on Tuesday opened the inquest into the May 2023 death of a man aged in his 80s referred to by the pseudonym ABC. ABCs name and those of his family members along with many other details surrounding his death cannot be published for legal reasons. An internationally recognised Brisbane art dealer has been charged with stealing in relation to several high-end paintings, some of which were valued at $100,000 each. Tove Witzerman Langridge, 46, owner of TW Fine Art in Newstead, was charged by detectives just before Christmas. Brisbane art gallery owner Tove Langridge. Credit: Internet He faces nine counts of stealing from three artists: Jordan Jordy Kerwick, Sebastian Helling and Jonathan Jonni Cheatwood. Police will allege Langridge had the paintings on consignment in his gallery, but did not pay the artists their share after selling the works. Snowtown murders accomplice Mark Haydon will be released from prison, 25 years after the bodies of eight victims were found in acid-filled barrels north of Adelaide. On Wednesday morning the South Australian parole board granted Haydons parole, saying he was well-behaved during his years in custody. Haydon was set to be released in May and SA parole board chair Frances Nelson said he would be released earlier to allow supervision. His institutional behaviour has been excellent throughout his incarceration, she said on Wednesday. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 14:00 | All, Japan A Japanese film director has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting an aspiring actress, marking the latest case in an industry embroiled in alleged sexual abuse. Hideo Sakaki, 53, also a representative director at a talent agency, was arrested Tuesday for allegedly assaulting a woman in her 20s under the pretense of meeting to give her acting advice at a condominium in Tokyo's Minato Ward on the night of May 23, 2016, according to Tokyo police. Sakaki has denied the allegations, calling them "false accusations." The police believe Sakaki abused his position as a film director and are investigating several other complaints against him. Using the acting profession as a pretext, Sakaki allegedly told the woman that he wanted to check whether she had tattoos and asked her to take off her clothes, saying she may have to get used to nudity in her future acting career, the police said. The woman met Sakaki in the fall of 2015 at an actors' workshop. She consulted the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department through a lawyer in September 2022 and filed a complaint in June 2023. Shukan Bunshun weekly magazine reported in March 2022 that Sakaki was suspected of coercing multiple actresses into performing sexual acts. The report led to the cancellation of the release of his film "Honeymoon," which deals with domestic sexual violence. The film industry has been rocked by a number of actors and others coming forward as part of the #MeToo movement. A survey on gender and labor issues in the Japanese film industry showed last year that 49 out of 685 actors and others involved with the industry said they had witnessed instances of sexual assault or harassment by directors and producers. Some 22 people claimed that they had experienced sexual assault or harassment by a film director or producer, with the majority of the claims made by women, according to the survey by the Japanese Film Project. Sakaki, also an actor, has appeared in several movies and television dramas, including playing a leading role in the movie "ALIVE," according to the talent agency's website. Related coverage: Japan comedian Matsumoto to go on hiatus amid sex scandal report Japan to introduce electronic arrest warrants, interrogation records Johnny's successor starts compensating sexual abuse victims, 23 paid Communities in Victorias west ravaged by bushfire last week have been urged to prepare for another day of extreme fire danger with temperatures forecast to soar across the state on Thursday. Emergency services warned that thunderstorms could hit Victorians still without power, but said winds werent expected to be as severe as those on February 13. A total fire ban has been issued for Melbourne and all fire districts apart from Gippsland and the states north-east on Thursday. Last week, a farmer was killed in storms that left 37 homes uninhabitable and caused more than half-a-million Victorian properties to lose power. Bushfires that started in the Grampians destroyed at least 44 homes in the western town of Pomonal. The Department of Home Affairs cybersecurity guru owns a six-figure shareholding in one of the countrys biggest tech supply companies, CyberCX, which is a major contractor to government departments, including his own. Corporate records show Peter Anstee, the first assistant secretary of the departments cybersecurity policy area and the governments lead adviser on the issue, owns 100,395 shares in private company CyberCX Pty Ltd. He did not divest those shares when he joined Home Affairs in 2021. The departments cybersecurity guru owns a six-figure shareholding in CyberCX, which is a major contractor to Home Affairs. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen After questions from this masthead on Wednesday, the department said it would look into this matter, adding that it takes conflict of interest, procurement and probity issues seriously. Anstee acquired the shares over two years as an executive director for CyberCX which describes itself as Australias leading cybersecurity firm where he led the companys regulatory, government and media teams between 2019 and 2021. Credit: Andrew Dyson To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@theage.com.au. Please include your home address and telephone number. No attachments, please include your letter in the body of the email. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published. There has been a recent increase in articles and opinion pieces in The Age focusing on defence (such as the front page yesterday Fears $11b navy boost will leave defence gap) as we enter an apparently unstable era and our principal ally, the United States, descends into dysfunction, which would no doubt be rapidly exacerbated by the re-election in November of the erratic Donald Trump. The Albanese government needs a radical rethink, both about our military hardware which it seems to be doing in some measure but also about our military personnel. One possibility to increase the manpower of our domestic military forces could be based on the conscription system of Switzerland, where I lived for 23 years. All males from age 18 to 30 participate in military training, which consists of initial service of 18 weeks. Over the next nine years, recruits carry on their normal lives and have six refresher courses of three weeks each. Women are also encouraged to sign on. This system causes minimum inconvenience and resentment, and helps bind together a diverse nation of four different official languages. Recruits often train in cantons beyond their own linguistic region. The result is nothing like the controversial conscription by lottery imposed on Australian 20-year-olds in the 1960s to fight the Vietnam War. The Swiss system is widely accepted, even welcomed as a key element of Swiss life which gives young people a sense of discipline and nationhood. But, of course, the major benefit to Switzerland is a large domestic defence force ready to defend the nation in case of invasion. If Australia had a cohort of millions of citizens ready to defend every town and street of our nation, they would be a major deterrent to any possible invader. Edmund Doogue, Crawley, WA Climate change is the real enemy Whats going on? In its October 2022 submission to the Australian governments defence strategic review, the Australian Security Leaders Climate Group led by Admiral Chris Barrie AC (Retd) and Air Vice-Marshal John Blackburn AO (Retd) and others wrote that climate change is the greatest security threat facing Australia, requiring a fundamental reframing of security and defence strategy. One key finding from the report was the existential nature of the climate threat requires a fundamental reframing of Australias defence and security strategy, away from traditional nation state geopolitics, to focus on unprecedented global co-operation rather than conflict. The report recommended the removal of subsidies to fossil fuel industries, including the $42 billion annually in Australia, roughly equivalent to our current defence budget. Sadly, it seems the report has been ignored by the current government, which continues to approve coal mines and subsidise the fossil fuel industry. Defence spending on ocean-going vessels of war has ballooned obscenely to include $368 billion for AUKUS subs and now a further $11 billion on a futuristic combatant fleet (Fears $11b navy boost will leave defence gap, 21/2). Meanwhile the oceans the vessels will patrol are the hottest on record. So much for science and the wisdom of our elders. Ray Peck, Hawthorn Our efforts should be towards peace, not war It is ludicrous to see that we are acquiring a fleet of drone ships to double the navys number of warships as China rapidly expands its military and asserts itself in the South China Sea. If a conflict were to happen, China would overwhelm Australia in one fell swoop along with our warships. The tactics of war are rapidly changing as we now live in a world where missiles and drones are the new weapons of combat. Rather than playing war games and building our out-of-date arsenal, it would be better to use all efforts to work towards a peaceful world. Julie Ottobre, Brunswick East Victorian Energy Minister Lily DAmbrosio has lashed electricity distributor Ausnet over an unacceptable delay in processing payments to more than a thousand customers affected by lengthy power outages. The state opposition on Wednesday also lost a bid to hold a parliamentary inquiry into the network, with the Victorian Greens refusing to back the proposal after the government agreed to amend its climate change legislation. Ausnet technicians repairing power lines in Emerald. Credit: Justin McManus In response to damaging storms that left half a million homes without power on Tuesday last week, the state and federal governments have opened up prolonged power outage payments for those waiting for power for seven days or more. They will be administered by electricity distributors. The state government indicated these payments would be made available from February 20, but a delay in setting up the system has forced Ausnet to push back the start of their program until Thursday. A highly impactful leak Jon Condra, an analyst with Recorded Future, a cybersecurity company, called it the most significant leak ever linked to a company suspected of providing cyber espionage and targeted intrusion services for the Chinese security services. He said organisations targeted by I-Soon according to the leaked material include governments, telecommunications firms abroad and online gambling companies within China. Loading Until the 190-megabyte leak, I-Soons website included a page listing clients topped by the Ministry of Public Security and including 11 provincial-level security bureaus and some 40 municipal public security departments. Another page available until early Tuesday advertised advanced persistent threat attack and defence capabilities, using the acronym APT one the cybersecurity industry employs to describe the worlds most sophisticated hacking groups. Internal documents in the leak describe I-Soon databases of hacked data collected from foreign networks around the world that are advertised and sold to Chinese police. The companys website was fully offline later on Tuesday. An I-Soon representative refused an interview request and said the company would issue an official statement at an unspecified date. I-Soon was founded in Shanghai in 2010, according to Chinese corporate records, and has subsidiaries in three other cities, including one in the south-western city of Chengdu that is responsible for hacking, research and development, according to leaked internal slides. The offices of I-Soon, which Chinese authorities are investigating after an unauthorised online dump of documents. Credit: AP I-Soons Chengdu subsidiary was open as usual on Wednesday. Red Lunar New Year lanterns swayed in the wind in a covered alleyway leading to the five-storey building housing I-Soons Chengdu offices. Employees streamed in and out, smoking cigarettes and sipping takeaway coffees outside. Inside, posters with the Communist Party hammer and stickle emblem featured slogans that read: Safeguarding the Party and the countrys secrets is every citizens required duty. I-Soons tools appear to be used by Chinese police to curb dissent on overseas social media and flood them with pro-Beijing content. Authorities can surveil Chinese social media platforms directly and order them to take down anti-government posts. But they lack that ability on overseas sites like Facebook or X, which millions of Chinese users use to evade state surveillance and censorship. Theres a huge interest in social media monitoring and commenting on the part of the Chinese government, said Mareike Ohlberg, a senior fellow in the Asia Program of the German Marshall Fund who reviewed some of the documents. To control public opinion and forestall anti-government sentiment, Ohlberg said, control of critical posts domestically is pivotal. Chinese authorities, she said, have a big interest in tracking down users who are based in China. The source of the leak could be a rival intelligence service, a dissatisfied insider, or even a rival contractor, said chief threat analyst John Hultquist of Googles Mandiant cybersecurity division. The data indicates I-Soons sponsors also include the Ministry of State Security and Chinas military, the Peoples Liberation Army, he said. Lots of targets, lots of countries One leaked draft contract shows I-Soon was marketing anti-terror technical support to Xinjiang police to track the regions native Uyghurs in Central and South-East Asia, claiming it had access to hacked airline, cellular and government data from countries like Mongolia, Malaysia, Afghanistan and Thailand. It is unclear whether the contract was signed. We see a lot of targeting of organisations that are related to ethnic minorities Tibetans, Uyghurs. A lot of the targeting of foreign entities can be seen through the lens of domestic security priorities for the government, said Dakota Cary, a China analyst with the cybersecurity firm SentinelOne. Loading He said the documents appeared legitimate because they aligned with what would be expected from a contractor hacking on behalf of Chinas security apparatus with domestic political priorities. Cary found a spreadsheet with a list of data repositories collected from victims and counted 14 governments as targets, including India, Indonesia and Nigeria. The documents indicated that I-Soon mostly supported the Ministry of Public Security, he said. Cary was also struck by the targeting of Taiwans Health Ministry to determine its COVID-19 caseload in early 2021 and impressed by the low cost of some of the hacks. The documents show that I-Soon charged $US55,000 ($84,000) to hack Vietnams Economy Ministry, he said. Although a few chat records refer to NATO, there is no indication of a successful hack of any NATO country, an initial review of the data by the AP found. That doesnt mean state-backed Chinese hackers are not trying to hack the US and its allies, though. If the leaker is inside China, which seems likely, Cary said that leaking information about hacking NATO would be really, really inflammatory a risk apt to make Chinese authorities more determined to identify the hacker. Mathieu Tartare, a malware researcher at the cybersecurity firm ESET, says it has linked I-Soon to a Chinese state hacking group it calls Fishmonger that it actively tracks, and which it wrote about in January 2020 after the group hacked Hong Kong universities during student protests. He said it has, since 2022, seen Fishmonger target governments, NGOs and think tanks across Asia, Europe, Central America and the United States. A cybersecurity researcher said it seemed I-Soon had found a way to hack accounts on X. Credit: AP French cybersecurity researcher Baptiste Robert also combed through the documents and said it seemed I-Soon had found a way to hack accounts on X even if users have two-factor authentication, as well as another for analysing email inboxes. He said US cyber operators and their allies are among potential suspects in the I-Soon leak because its in their interests to expose Chinese state hacking. A spokeswoman for US Cyber Command wouldnt comment on whether the National Security Agency or Cybercom were involved in the leak. An email from the press office at X responded: Busy now, please check back later. Western governments, including the US, have taken steps to block Chinese state surveillance and harassment of government critics overseas in recent years. Laura Harth, campaign director at Safeguard Defenders, an advocacy group that focuses on human rights in China, said such tactics instil fear of the Chinese government in Chinese and foreign citizens abroad, stifling criticism and leading to self-censorship. They are a looming threat that is just constantly there and very hard to shake off. Loading Last year, US officials charged 40 members of Chinese police units assigned to harass the family members of Chinese dissidents overseas as well as to spread pro-Beijing content online. The indictments describe tactics similar to those detailed in the I-Soon documents, Harth said. Chinese officials have accused the US of similar activity. American officials, including FBI director Chris Wary, have recently complained about Chinese state hackers planting malware that could be used to damage civilian infrastructure. On Monday, Mao Ning, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, said the US government has long been working to compromise Chinas critical infrastructure. She demanded the US stop using cybersecurity issues to smear other countries. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 12:15 | All, Japan Arrangements are being made for Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to visit the Noto Peninsula, possibly in late March, to meet with people affected by the powerful earthquake that struck the central Japan region on New Year's Day, an Imperial Household Agency source said Wednesday. The imperial couple are expected to fly to Ishikawa Prefecture to see the hard-hit cities of Suzu and Wajima, among other locations. They may use a helicopter to travel due to road damage, the source said. The emperor and empress have expressed their desire to visit the area as soon as possible to console in person those affected but without hindering recovery efforts following the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck the region on the Sea of Japan coast, claiming more than 240 lives. The imperial couple visited Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures in December 2019 after the region was devastated by Typhoon Faxai. Related coverage: 70% of tsunami-risk areas in Japan have not run winter shelter drills Electric wire damage may be behind big fire following Japan quake Logistics challenges hinder volunteering in quake-hit central Japan KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 09:06 | All, Podcast Episode 33: Pastries that taste of love What does a "tearful heartbreak" taste like? Three Kyodo News journalists Yamaguchi-san, Toma and Horiuchi-san talk about two companies that filtered song lyrics and conversations through AI to create five pastries reminiscent of the different stages of love. Listen as they talk about what they think love tastes like, as well as how cultures perceive emotions differently. Article mentioned in the podcast: Japanese pastry flavors mimic stages of love with help from AI Kyodo News presents a bilingual podcast for English learners about the ins and outs of news writing and how to translate tricky Japanese phrases into English. Have fun listening to journalists discuss recent articles as they occasionally go off on unrelated tangents. More podcast episodes: Podcast [English World] Episode 32: "Snack" bar-hopping tours Podcast[English World] Episode 31: Greetings from our Jakarta correspondent Podcast [English World] Episode 30: Noto earthquake The ACLU of Wyoming opposes Senate File 99, legislation that would prohibit doctors from providing life-saving gender-affirming care to transgender youth in Wyoming. Like all health care, health care for transgender youth is individualized and based on the needs of each particular person. Senate File 99, which will be heard in the Senate Labor, Health & Social Services Committee at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, would take away private health care choices around the provision of medical care consistent with prevailing medical and scientific standards. Such choices should be made between a doctor and a patient, not politicians. Across the country and right here in Wyoming, lawmakers are sticking their noses into matters they shouldnt specifically heath care decisions that have been traditionally reserved for parents, said Antonio Serrano, ACLU of Wyoming advocacy director. Anytime policymakers spread lies and misinformation about trans people and their medical care, its dangerous. We dont need a law that substitutes the states judgment for that of loving parents who are following the guidance of their children and the advice of doctors. Doctors and medical organizations have been providing gender-affirming care to transgender youth for decades. The link between gender-affirming care and improved mental well-being among teens is well documented. A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that gender-affirming care is associated with significantly reduced rates of depression, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts among transgender and nonbinary youth. Rather than making medical care more affordable and accessible to people who need it, these legislators are trying to add another barrier, one that will be hardest on some of the most vulnerable people in our state, Serrano said. The result of legislation like this wont be that fewer kids grow up to be trans, it will be that fewer kids grow up. Singling out gender-affirming care for categorical prohibition violates the constitutional guarantees of equal protection and due process. Last summer, a federal judge in the 8th Circuit Court permanently blocked an Arkansas law that aimed to ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth. The judge said the law, which is similar to what is being proposed in Wyoming, violates the constitutional rights of transgender youth, their parents, and their medical providers. In January, a federal judge in the 9th Circuit blocked at Idaho law that would ban gender-affirming care for trans youth. KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 08:30 | All, Japan A growing number of whales are becoming stranded in a western Japan bay known for its maze-like passages, with experts warning the marine mammals are increasingly likely to wander into the area as global warming progresses. On Monday, the carcass of a sperm whale measuring 13 to 14 meters and weighing 25 to 30 tons was found in Osaka Bay. The discovery followed reports of sightings off Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture a week earlier, with the whale stranded in the bay since late January. In January last year, a sperm whale died after being spotted struggling near the mouth of the Yodo River in Osaka. The body of the 15-meter-long male, referred to affectionately on social media as Yodo-chan, was later sunk off the Kii Peninsula south of Osaka Bay. According to the local ports bureau, all whales that have strayed into the bay have died after being unable to return to the Pacific Ocean. While metallic sounds can be used to chase away whales, the risk of agitating them means the solution is not ideal. "The only thing we can do is consider in advance how to dispose of the carcasses," a bureau official said. Yasunobu Nabeshima, chairman of an Osaka Museum of Natural History community club, attributed the increase in whales wandering into Osaka Bay to global warming, which has caused the temperature difference between the Pacific Ocean and bay to decline. The difference has been further minimized by the development of low-temperature eddies in the Pacific caused by the large meander of the Kuroshio Current, which begins off the Philippines and flows northeastward past Japan, since 2017, Nabeshima said, adding it has also led to more dolphins and sea turtles in the area. The structure of Osaka Bay also makes it easy for whales to become trapped, with the coast of Osaka and Sakai cities comprising many intricate passages. While Kobe harbor, where the latest whale was initially sighted, has a simple structure, Sakai-Semboku port, where its carcass was found Monday, leads to a dead end. Whales use sound waves to navigate and Osaka Bay becomes "a place from which they cannot escape once they enter," said Nabeshima. "Local authorities should collaborate with research institutions to conduct ecological surveys and seek effective measures," he added. Related coverage: Killer whales trapped in drift ice off Hokkaido gone in likely escape KYODO NEWS - Feb 21, 2024 - 23:54 | All, World The United States on Tuesday vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution drafted by Algeria that would have urged an "immediate" ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, claiming the measure would negatively affect talks between Israel and the Hamas militant group. It was the fourth time for the United States to use its veto power on the key panel of the world body since the Oct. 7 attack against Israel by Hamas militants. Washington, which backs Israel in the conflict and favors direct negotiations, rejected three other resolutions that would have urged a pause of the conflict in Gaza late last year. "Demanding an immediate, unconditional ceasefire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace," Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said during a session before the vote. "Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel." The resolution would have demanded an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" between the parties at conflict in the Gaza Strip, as well as calling for the "immediate and unconditional release of all hostages." "Wrong decisions today will have a cost on our region and our world tomorrow," said Amar Bendjama, the ambassador of Algeria to the United Nations, who put forward the resolution. "And this cost will be violence and instability," he said. Thirteen of the 15 members of the council voted in favor, including Japan, while Britain abstained. Resolutions require the affirmative vote of at least nine members in order to pass and for none of the council's five permanent members to exercise its veto. Since the start of the conflict, the council has endorsed two resolutions on the issue. The first called for "humanitarian pauses" in the fighting, and the second established the position of U.N. humanitarian aid coordinator for the Gaza Strip. More than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the fighting there began, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry. The United States has announced an alternative proposal that would call for a "temporary ceasefire as soon as practicable" for military operations in Gaza, conditioned on the release of all those held captive by the Hamas militant group. The U.S. proposal also requests that a ground offensive into Gaza's southern Rafah district, where an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians are now living, not take place "under current circumstances." Related coverage: Palestine envoy hopes to showcase resilience at 2025 Osaka Expo Israel-Hamas war Kyodo News' top international story of 2023 Clase Azul Mexico adds third mezcal to its range Clase Azul Mexico has announced a third mezcal in its range, Clase Azul Mezcal San Luis Potosi. The latest addition joins Durango and Guerrero in the brands portfolio of mezcals that each honour the Mexican states for which they are named. Made in the small community of Estacion Ipina, Clase Azul Mezcal San Luis Potosi is derived from green agave native to the region. The mezcal is made with traditional methods, including stone oven cooking, milling in a Chilean mill, and double distillation in copper stills. Tasting notes supplied by the brand highlight flavours such as caramel, green chile, florals, lime zest, and clove. Clase Azul Mexico master distiller Viridiana Tinoco shared: Were delighted to introduce a spirit thats so deeply rooted in the history and landscape of its place of origin. The generational wisdom safeguarded by the mezcal-producing community of Estacion Ipina, San Luis Potosi has given rise to a distinctive mezcal. Its unique aromatic and tasting notes reflect its traditional craftsmanship and capture the essence of the green agave used in its production. The distinctive decanter in which the mezcal is presented pays homage to the Huachichil, nomads of San Luis Potosis deserts. The colour is chosen after the tribes name which translates from Nahuatl, an Aztec language, to heads painted red. The carvings at the base of the decanter represent the flora and fauna of the desert landscapes. The decanter cap, handmade by Mexican artists, shows the red finch that was a sacred guardian to the Huachichil. Clase Azul Mezcal San Luis Potosi is available from retailers including Selfridges, Hedonism, and Berry Bros. 21 February 2024 - Lucy Schofield I wrote him a letter so he couldnt use my grief against me. I said: I wrote this letter with my mum and sister and after Id spoken to a psychologist. So I was in my best frame of mind when I wrote this letter, and it still applies right now, she told Yahoo! Lifestyle. By Victor Ing, Special to The Post On January 22, 2024, Canadas Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Honourable Marc Miller made the seismic announcement that Canada will set caps to limit the number of new international students coming to Canada, to reduce overall levels by a whopping 35% over two years. Minister Miller did not mince words during his January press conference when describing the institutional wrongs he intends to right, citing the existence of diploma mills whose sole purpose is to turn a profit from international students, rather than ensuring they receive a quality education and experience in Canada. It has now been a month since Minister Miller's announcement was made, and we are now seeing trickle-down effects in the ways that provinces and territories are adapting to these changes. When announcing the national cap on international students, Minister Miller indicated that some provinces would see a much more significant reduction in the inflow of international students because the cap would be allocated based on the population of each province and territory. It is well known that Ontario is the top destination for international students, with British Columbia in second place, and we now know that the new cap restrictions are expected to cut Ontarios student intake by about half. Closer to home in British Columbia, the province has been given an allotment of 83,000 international student applications for 2024 with an expected approval of 50,000 applications, which still seems high given current estimates that there are about 175,000 international post-secondary students in the province. In years past, the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) never shied away from any opportunity to boast that international students create jobs and boost our economy. As recently as December 2023, IRCC stated that international education accounts for more than $22 billion in annual economic activity, which supports approximately 200,000 jobs annually in Canada. IRCCs tone and rhetoric has now shifted since the announcement of the national cap, and local economies are already bracing for the impact. For instance, the Vancouver Sun recently reported that BC universities are cutting their budgets and laying off staff, citing the University of Victorias announcement that it would cut its operating budget by about $13 million due to lagging international student enrolment figures, a frequently changing geopolitical landscape, and uncertainty surrounding the Ministers national cap. We are also seeing a sea change in other areas of law. As a result of Minister Millers announcement, the BC Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills is now implementing widespread measures to improve the quality of education for students in the province. These include the following initiatives: Establishing a moratorium on new educational institutions that want to host international students until February 2026. Setting higher standards before approving new private degree programs: Historically, this has been an important topic for international students who could only qualify for a work permit after graduation if they attended a degree-granting program at a private educational institution. Establishing new processes to increase tuition transparency for international students attending public post-secondary institutions. Strengthening inspection, compliance and enforcement standards at private institutions. The international student program has become the latest lightning rod in Canadas immigration system. For years the level of international students coming to Canada continued to grow at unmeasured and unsustainable levels due to many factors, including educational agents who receive commissions for directing students to particular schools and programs while at the same time advising would-be international students that studying in Canada is a surefire way to acquiring Canadian permanent resident status when that has no longer been the case for years. The Ministers January implementation of a cap on international students is just the beginning of a re-vamp of Canadas temporary resident program. If there is one immutable truth about Canadian immigration law and policy, it is that change is inevitable. It is crucial to stay updated on the latest news, trends and legislative changes. Also, who you work with is of vital concern. The plight of Canadas international students has highlighted this reality. Be sure to seek advice from qualified and licenced immigration professionals to fully understand your opportunities to work, study, or live permanently in Canada. Victor Ing is a lawyer at Sas & Ing Immigration Law Centre. He provides a full range of immigration services. For more information go to canadian-visa-lawyer.com or email [email protected]. By Janelle Alegre New Canadian Media Imagine not being able to watch your child grow up. This is the reality of countless Filipino mothers and fathers. As Family Day in Canada approaches, it brings to mind the growing number of Filipino workers, many of whom are parents, who sacrifice the familial union of this holiday to work abroad. Approximately, 1.96 million Filipino workers worked abroad in 2022, where the majority consisted of women workers. As well, the total amount of money sent or brought home was around 197.47 billion pesos (roughly $4.9 billion Canadian dollars). As the Philippine economy struggles to provide enough employment to their growing labour workforce, these statistics suggest that many of these workers pursue (higher-paying) job opportunities overseas to provide financial security and support to their children back home. Sadly, working abroad means that these parents will be supporting their family from afar at the cost of being physically absent throughout their childs life. Considering how this parental absence can have significant impacts on childrens development, it is reasonable to consider whether the sacrifice is worth it for these workers. While parents efforts may provide some significant benefits to their children and families, it does not produce a permanent solution to the systematic issues that disrupt Filipino families in the first place. The decision to work overseas can complicate the relationship dynamics between the child left behind and the parent(s) working abroad. Filipino children with mothers working abroad have reported facing devastating emotional challenges including insecurity, loneliness, and a yearning for their mothers intimacy. These children struggled to recognize their mothers commoditized sacrifices as signs of love while also cherishing the material goods (i.e. toys) they send home and viewed their mothers as preferring money over family. This seems to pervade these parent-child relationships with a concoction of resentment and appreciation. Beyond the sea, Filipino parents are also no strangers to the emotional pain associated with this distance. Filipina mothers working abroad have reported feeling helpless, guilty, and lonely, as the sometimes several-year-long separation may lead mothers to miss their childrens developmental milestones. This impacts a mothers perceived closeness and relationship quality with her child, which often drives her to counteract the absence by gifting material goods, reassuring them of the security that these sacrifices bring to their loved ones. Research has found that when assessing Filipino left-behind childrens educational attainment in elementary school (aged 9-15), there were slight decreases in childrens education performance when both parents were working abroad compared to non-migrant, present parents. In particular, the mothers absence had a stronger negative effect, compared to the fathers absence, on childrens school performance which may be due to Filipina mothers primarily holding the roles of family preservation and childrearing. There seemed to be a shift when children turned 19-21 years old. Research found that when only mothers were working overseas, there was an increase in enrollment of college and total number of years enrolled in school, compared to when both parents were present. Specifically, left-behind daughters had greater education attainment as opposed to sons, possibly due to the heightened expectation for daughters to study, work, and care for their aging parents. For left-behind sons, greater and more frequent remittance income from both parents working abroad increased their chances of graduating from high school and staying enrolled in college. Whats the key to their success? On average, 4.1 people lived in Philippine households in 2022, with multigenerational households as one of the most common family structures. The educational success of left-behind children may be due to the parental gap that extended family members fill rooted in traditional family-oriented values and Filipinos strong values on high education attainment. But this is not the full story. Filipino parents often seek overseas employment to raise their childrens educational opportunities, enabling them to attain higher education and well-paying jobs to escape poverty. However, the academic degrees of these now left-behind graduates may not be enough to establish financial stability. Consequently, this generation may be driven to work abroad to support their future families as well as their parents after they return home from their work overseas. It is a generational cycle of overseas employment. Recently, the Canadian government has implemented a new pilot program that expedites the recruitment of, specifically, Philippine workers into industries like healthcare and agriculture. Despite the increased job opportunities, this may exacerbate the intergenerational cycle of working abroad and perpetuate the separation of Filipino families. Although parenting abroad keeps Filipino families somewhat afloat, its not an effective solution for future generations to live and work comfortably in their home country. Instead, it tears families apart to compensate for an issue that is not fundamentally theirs to solve reflecting societal complications with the Philippine economy. China implemented the Youth Thousand Talents Program and other policies such as institutional recruitment and financial support for returnees which attracted numerous emigrated citizens to return to their families and work back home. South Korea advanced their STEM industries; India provided greater career options through developing pharmaceutical companies; and Taiwan strengthened their technology and research institutions. All of these initiatives developed economic stability to increase job opportunities and quality of life for students and workers. Parents should not feel compelled to abandon their children for a future that cannot guarantee life-long stability. Countries can introduce policies that satisfy the economic, educational, and living demands of families. To break the Philippine intergenerational loop, its time for the Philippine government to introduce proactive economic interventions that keep Filipino families close together and close to home. Filipino Canadians by the numbers Not much trade is conducted between the Philippines and Canada, but the connection between the two countries is strong thanks to the 957,355 Canadians with Filipino roots who proudly call Canada home. Over one-third (34.7%) of Canadians reporting Filipino roots living in Canada in 2021 arrived within the previous decade. Just under four in five (79.1%) Canadians reporting Filipino roots are immigrants. During the 2021 Census of Population, 757,410 people reported that they were born in the Philippines and had immigrated to Canada, making the Philippines the third largest source country for immigration to Canada, following India (1.2 million) and China (830,980). Just over three-quarters (76.5%) of Filipino Canadians were living in Ontario (355,680 people), Alberta (203,960) or British Columbia (172,915) at the time of the census. Almost four in five (78.6%) Filipino Canadians aged 15 years and older were working or actively looking for a job in 2022, the highest labour force participation rate among all Canadians and well above the national average of 65.4%. Filipino Canadians had an unemployment rate of 4.3% in 2022, a full percentage point below the national average of 5.3%. In 2020, Filipino Canadians were most likely to be working in sales and service (182,535 people), health care (98,030), business, finance and administration (79,360) and the trades (65,985). After paying their taxes, Filipino Canadians took home almost the same amount of money on average as the Canadian median in 2020. Although most Filipino Canadians are relative newcomers to Canada, over 9 in 10 (92.0%) reported a somewhat strong or very strong sense of belonging to Canada in the spring of 2022, compared with 84.2% of Canadians overall. Filipino Canadians overall reported a much stronger sense of belonging to their province, town city, or community than Canadians overall. By Vikas Vaidya Ritu... An emotion-filled voice hit his ears. The middle-aged man turned towards the voice. He saw a woman with her eyes welling up, and the young man Rohit (name changed) by her side. For a few seconds, he just stared at them blankly. The young man stepped forward and hugged him tightly. Pointing at the lady, Rohit asked, Baba, you know who she is? The middle-aged man, Ritu (name changed), replied calmly, (My) wife! The lady, Ritus wife Meena (name changed), stepped ahead and touched Ritus feet. Then, this family of three sat down for a long and leisurely conversation. After all, Meena and Rohit were meeting Ritu after eight long years! Meena and Rohit had spent sleepless nights in the eight years since Ritu left his home from a village in Giridih district of Jharkhand. Each time they thought of Ritu, which was several times in a day, they just hoped that Ritu was alright wherever he was, and prayed for him. When they found Ritu at Ashok Van near Nagpur on Sunday, they were choked with emotions -- joy, curiosity, anxiety, excitement. Ritesh (Ritu) was still silent, while Meena and Rohit could not stop chatting. Rohit even made a video call to his daughter and introduced her to her grandfather. It was indeed a happy reunion. However, this reunion did not come easy. Before leaving his home in a fit of rage, Ritesh was a very happy person running a small grocery shop. He was a cheerful and enthusiastic man, recalled his neighbour and friend Rajkumar (name changed), who works at Nagpur. Rajkumar also met Ritesh after eight years, and could not believe the change that had taken place in his friend. Everything was smooth in the life of Ritesh and his family. But, something happened eight years ago, and Riteshs normal behaviour changed. He acted suspicious, started shouting, got irritated every now and then. And, one fine morning, he just left home in anger. His family felt that he would come back, but he didnt. Finally, they lodged a complaint with the local police and kept waiting. He was the only bread-earner in the family. It was difficult for the family to make both ends meet when he was lost in the vast world outside the village. Gradually, Rohit grew up and got a job at Delhi. All this while, the hopeful mother-son continued the search for their family head. Meanwhile, the story of Ritesh was getting a bizarre twist. He must have wandered many places, before he landed up at Ooty. He was admitted to a hospital where the doctors found that he was suffering from a mental ailment. They contacted Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundation at Karjat in Maharashtra, run by Ramon Magsaysay awardee Dr Bharat Vatwani. The Foundations team took Ritesh to Karjat, where doctors diagnosed him with Schizophrenia and started treating him accordingly. A team of social workers started searching for the native place of Ritesh in a bid to trace his family. It was difficult for everyone around to understand the language he spoke. Also, he was not opening up in conversations. Samar Basak, a social worker with Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundation, spoke to Ritesh who did not utter a word. Finally, Samar took him out in the open air. This idea clicked as when Samar asked him about his hometown, Ritesh said, Asansol (West Bengal), and Deoghar (Jharkhand). Since I am from West Bengal, I could understand that the language he was speaking in had no connection with Bengal. So, I thought he might be from Jharkhand. I had a police officer friend in Jharkhand with whose help I found out that a missing complaint was lodged about eight years ago. Fortunately, Rohit helped us a lot. We informed him that we had found his father and that he was with us, Basak told The Hitavada. Nagpur came into picture as the place of reunion of Ritesh with his family as Dr Bharat Vatwani, with the help of Padma Shri and Ramon Magsaysay awardee Dr Prakash Amte, has started Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundations sub-centre at Ashok Van. Dr Amte has made available a huge place in Ashok Van. Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundation brought 38 patients with mental ailments from Karjat to Ashok Van. Ritesh was one of them. Luckily, on the day of the inauguration of the sub-centre in Ashok Van, Ritesh was reunited with his wife and son. The family members of Ritesh Kumar stayed with him for some time. Though he was composed, during video call to his relatives back at his native place, Ritesh suddenly shouted twice, for no specific reason or at no one in particular. Obviously, the family members were worried. Dr Swarali Kondwilkar, a treating doctor with Shraddha Rehabilitation Foundation, offered an explanation. It will take some more time for Ritesh to show more improvement. Normally, such patients show improvement within a month. The trend of periodic unexplained shouting may continue for some more time. The family will have to handle him in a proper way and understand him better. Rohit has agreed to stay at the village with his father, for one full month. Gradually, things will improve, she told The Hitavada. Villagers handle such patients in a better way than the people in cities do. They show patience and passion both. Also, they have more attachment to people of their own village, added Dr Denit Mathew, who works with Shraddha Foundation that has rehabilitated 10,000 such patients. Meena and Rohit said that they could not explain their joy when they got a call from Shraddha Foundation. In all these years, we were clueless about Ritesh. But, I was optimistic that I would meet him some day. We will take every care of him, said Meena. Of course, welcoming back a reality-challenged Ritesh in the family may not be an easy task. But, no one understands a man better than his family. The happy reunion provided a hope to everyone at Ashok Van sub-centre. The mission to find the missing dear ones continues... Youth should contribute in building Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat with its cultural distinctiveness Staff Reporter Governor Mangubhai Patel said that Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are a unique gift of nature on earth. The cultural and natural beauty of both the regions contribute to their unique identity in the country. Both the states are symbols of Indias geographical and cultural diversity. He said that India is the largest and strongest democracy in the world, where everyone gets equal opportunities for development. He urged the youths to actively preserve and promote cultural specialties to create Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Governor Patel was addressing Foundation Day celebrations of the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram at Raj Bhavan. He wished residents of both the states on their Foundation Day. Principal Secretary to the Governor Sanjay Kumar Shukla and natives of Arunachal and Mizoram residing in Madhya Pradesh were present. Governor Patel said that both Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh are important states of the country from social and geographical point of view. These regions houses dense forests, lakes, waterfalls, flora and fauna and rich cultural diversity. He emphasised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritised legacy of the countrys unity in diversity, national security and development of the states. A task force has been constituted to boost agricultural development in the north-eastern states. The completion of projects of bridges, roads, railway lines, tunnels, airports and flights pending for many decades has given impetus to the basic development of the region, which has also created new opportunities for the youth. Governor Patel was felicitated in the programme by the representatives of Arunachal Pradesh by presenting him traditional Tenga attire and the representatives of Mizoram state by presenting him traditional cap and Angvastra. Major CSR 21 Corps Jimmy Lalrin Fela greeted Governor Patel with a bouquet and proposed a vote of thanks. A short film based on the history and development of the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram was screened in the programme. The greeting message of Mizoram State Governor Dr Hari Babu Kumbhapati on the occasion of State Foundation Day was also broadcast. A group of students from Arunachal Pradesh presented cultural programmes based on the rich heritage and identity of the State. Natives of both the states and students of both the states studying in Gandhi Medical College, Mansarovar, Sage and other educational institutions of Bhopal attended the programme. DAMASCUS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed in an Israeli missile strike on a residential building in an upscale neighborhood here on Wednesday morning, a war monitor reported. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based watchdog group, stated that the attack was aimed at individuals associated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), suggesting it was an assassination attempt. The attack targeted a residential apartment near the Cham City Center shopping mall and an Iranian school in the Kafar Sousah neighborhood. The state news agency SANA confirmed the attack but provided no further details. Israel has frequently carried out missile strikes on Syrian targets, but hitting residential areas is uncommon and usually implies an assassination attempt. The incident follows a similar attack on Jan. 20, when five IRGC officers were killed in a missile strike on the Western Mazzeh Villas neighborhood in Damascus. Admn, BMC fail to shift illegal occupants from Bhadbhada dam site Staff Reporter The district administration and Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) sent more than 10 loading vehicles and police team to shift around 200 families residing illegally in the restricted area of Bhadbhada dam site on Tuesday. However, none of families initiated to vacate the area. The illegal slum situated in-front of Hotel Taj, Upper Lake Bhadbhada area, is said to be removed on February 21. People living in Bhadbhada slum said that the Government has not made any substitute arrangements for them. They demanded the Government to relocate them to some other place instead of asking them to vacate the place in two or three days notice. District administration has asked to vacate the area in order to comply with the orders of National Green Tribunal (NGT). People were given three days ultimatum to vacate the area. However, three days ultimatum was over on February 19. In the meantime, District Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh took a meeting with the slum-dwellers and allowed them one more day to vacate the area. Collector Singh has said that legal action will be taken to vacate the area on Wednesday. District administration, Bhopal Municipal Corporation and police team were present at the site since morning hours on Tuesday. There were more than 10 loading vehicles to help people in shifting but no one initiated to vacate the area. Similarly, 15 days time was given to five families who have illegally raised structure adjoining Munshi Hussain Khan Talab in Old Bhopal has lapsed, but the authorities have not initiated any action against the encroachers, which is a clear violation of order by National Green Tribunal (NGT). NGT, back to back, had given orders to take action against these human settlements, illegal constructions especially in the vicinity of water bodies. The District and Municipal administration have already issued notices to concerned parties. Bhauri Ram, one of the residents, said there are around 1,500 people residing in the slum and there is no substitute arrangement done by the Government. He said, District administration has not allotted other space for us. How can we vacate our house with children when we have no other place to go. We are not denying to vacate the place but we are only demanding another place to be allotted. Officials said that BMC has to submit an action report to NGT on March 12. Earlier on February 19, Collector and BMC Commissioner Frank Nobel A in a meeting held at the Collectorate has said that various deadline has been issued to vacate the area. He said, February 20 was the last date to vacate the area and people were suggested to shift their luggage in other optional area. Collector Singh has also suggested people to submit applications for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana where house is being allotted at a cheaper price and one can apply for loan from banks as well. On February 18, former Chief Minister Digvijay Singh had visited Bhadbhada dam site and interacted with the people in their support. He also raised demand in support of dwellers that Government should allocate them space to shift from the dam site. Bharat Ratna for P.V. - better late than never D.C. Pathak Prime Minister former P. V. Narasimha Rao made a lasting impression as an intellectual, a scholar, and a linguist but more than that as a leader of a nationalist outlook and an administrator who enjoyed bureaucracys respect for taking decisions with great clarity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi deserves the credit for giving due recognition to those leaders who from a historical perspective stood out for their role in carrying democratic India forward. The Bharat Ratna to many who had been left out for some reason will have the effect of uniting India by keeping this recognition above party politics. THE Bharat Ratna awards announced this year to posthumously honour some well-known leaders in public life for their contribution to the countrys great democratic progress, add to their credibility and create a good feeling all around. Amongst the recipients is former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao who successfully ran a minority Government for five years from 1991 and with whom I served as Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB), from mid-1994 up to the end of his tenure as Prime Minister in 1996. Prime Minister Rao is best known for handling the political strategy that allowed his Finance Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to set out with the much-needed economic reforms. Prime Minister Rao made a lasting impression as an intellectual, a scholar, and a linguist but more than that as a leader of a nationalist outlook and an administrator who enjoyed the respect of bureaucracy for taking decisions with great clarity. He was very quick in understanding the nuances of a suggestion. Even senior officials and ministers were somewhat in awe of him for his strategic thinking and deep understanding. He was a man of few words who always put across his views and advice in effective short observations and had an aura of authenticity about his leadership. He normally never called any officer on Sunday - he was modernistic about realising the importance of a weekly rest day for the hardworking bureaucrats. At the height of trouble in Kashmir, he once held a plenary meeting in which all those who mattered in the management of that State - from the Governor and the Army chief to the Cabinet and Home Secretaries - were in attendance. The discussion was on what stronger measures if any, could be taken to deal with the situation. The Prime Minister went round the table and the participants mostly asked for a new hardline. He finally asked me sitting next to him as Director, IB, for my views. On a considered assessment, I advocated that we should stay put and watch the situation further. Prime Minister Rao endorsed this and said that no new steps were needed. When the participants pressed for a decision on further action, he famously said that not taking a decision was also a decision. This could come only from an intellectually strong leader. On another occasion, I told the Prime Minister that my senior officers were suffering because the delay in the empanelment process made them a victims of the rule that a minimum of 11 months must still be available to them before retirement, for them to be given the promotion due to them. I remember telling the Prime Minister that the procedural could not kill the substantive - he immediately grasped the point and called the Cabinet Secretary to sort it out. From this emerged the practice of in situ promotion whereby IB officer would get next higher grade from the day he became eligible for promotion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi deserves the credit for giving due recognition to those leaders who from a historical perspective stood out for their role in carrying democratic India forward. The Bharat Ratna to many who had been left out for some reason will have the effect of uniting India by keeping this recognition above party politics. This year, Padma awards were also meant to extend national acknowledgement to craftsmen, scientists and those who did exceptional social service for people at the local level - and were kept relatively free of a political or bureaucratic imprint. If the Bharat Ratna awards are appreciated by the people of India, their timing does not matter to them - better late than never would be their basic response - and if the action of the Government brings political goodwill to the present Prime Minister, why should anybody have a grouse? Recalling my association with Prime Minister Rao as the Director, IB, for over two years, I do feel that the IB has always served the nation as a professional Intelligence agency - making a judgement call on its own about what was a potential threat to national security and integrity. Congress lost the 1996 General Election - partly because of internal rifts - and I became the first Director of the IB to serve a BJP Government with the late Atal Behari Vajpayee being invited to form the Government as the head of the single largest party. Unfortunately, that Government was short-lived - possibly because all in the Opposition shaken by the first-time event of BJP coming to power on its own, joined hands in the vote of confidence. Prime Minister Vajpayee was a fine leader with equanimity and grace, and I had more than one occasion to brief him even in that short period of time. I got the opportunity of serving a third Prime Minister - H. D. Deve Gowda - representing the United Front with its heavy dependence on the Congress. Amidst all the political turmoil that his regime witnessed, I remember Prime Minister Deve Gowda as a person of practical insight and understanding. Late Gujral was a thinking leader. To him goes the credit of conceiving for the first time the idea of a coordinating body for Intelligence and Security at the national apex - it could not materialise then but would later result in the formation of the National Security Council (NSC) and its Secretariat- the NSCS, after the Kargil war. I am glad I was able to function as the Intelligence chief with all the three regimes that together represented the entire political spectrum of India - Congress, BJP and the United Front - at that point of time. In a nutshell, my experience as Director, IB, confirms my belief that India must continue to put our national Intelligence agencies on a special footing for their priceless contribution to national security. It is a matter of great satisfaction that Prime Minister Modi - aided by an extremely competent National Security Advisor - is giving all attention to our Intelligence set-up and the resources it requires, particularly to the matter of inter-agency coordination and the vital need for an integral response to any threat to Indias security, integrity and sovereignty. Bharat Ratna awards strengthen the impression that Prime Minister Modi is a national leader and not just the leader of the party in power. CM Dr Mohan Yadav addresses Paryavaran Sammelan Staff Reporter Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on completion of three years of former Chief Ministers resolution of plantation participated in the programme organised at Ravindra Bhawan on Tuesday. Several environmentalists and public representatives also attended the programme. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav greeted all for organising Paryavaran Sammelan and welcomed environmentalists and public representatives in the State capital. Dr Yadav said that Shivraj Singh Chouhan has connected several people with the work of plantation of a sapling every day. He said that the work of plantation has inspired us all. He said that efforts will be made to determine different places for plantation programme of local bodies in Bhopal. Chief Minister Dr Yadav also said that directives will be issued for the purpose and places for plantation of saplings will be approved by Town and Country Planning. The Chief Minister further said that places for plantation of saplings will be secured even in rural body areas and if anyone wants to plant saplings on birthday or any such occasion then saplings will be provided to the citizens. He also gave a message about promotion of solar energy and citizens will be given cooperation for establishment of solar panel. Sanchi Solar city is known for its solar panels. He said that the work of establishment of solar panel will be expanded up to other towns and villages. PM Modis contribution for unity and integrity is unmatched: CM Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said that Prime Minister Narendra Modis initiative and contribution for unity and integrity of the country will be remembered forever. Dy CM makes several announcements Staff Reporter RAIPUR, The demand for grants for the fiscal year 2024-25 of various departments, including the Police Department, Home Department, Jail, Panchayat and Rural Development Department, Science and Technology Department and Technical Education and Employment Department, was approved via voice vote during the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly session on the 11th day of the Budget session, held on Tuesday. Discussions regarding the remaining demands for grants under the purview of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharmas departments were concluded on Tuesday. Participating in the deliberations on the demands for grants related to his departments, Dy CM announced several initiatives. These included the formulation of a master plan for villages with over 3,000 residents, which would be handed over to the Panchayats for implementation. Additionally, the Mahtari Sandan programme would be implemented in over 11,000 Panchayats across State. The Hamar Chhattisgarh Yojana is slated for re-launch to facilitate visits by Panchayat representatives to the State Capital. Addressing concerns raised in the House, Dy CM Sharma highlighted efforts to address issues such as the construction of houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and the resumption of payments for Self Help Welfare Groups of Rural Industrial Parks. He also emphasised the governments commitment to tackling the Naxal problem and announced measures to bolster security in affected regions. Furthermore, Sharma outlined plans to enhance facilities in jails, establish Mahila police stations in every district, and launch initiatives such as the Science City Centre in Raipur and the Chhattisgarh Rojgar Application to aid unemployed youth. In addition to these announcements, Sharma shared insights into ongoing schemes and future plans, including the Niyad Nellanar Scheme and initiatives to support security personnel operating in Naxal-affected areas. Earlier, Congress MLA Ramkumar Yadav, BJP MLA Dharamjeet Singh, Congress MLA Dwarkadheesh Yadav, BJP MLA Dharamlal Kaushik, Congress MLA Sangeeta Sinha, BJP MLA Sushant Shukla, BJP MLA Prabodh Minj, Congress MLA Harshita Swami Baghel, Congress MLA Raghvendra Kumar Singh, Congress MLA Kunwar Singh Nishad and other MLAs participated in the discussion. The Congress MLAs opposed the demand for grants of the Dy CMs departments. The Congress MLAs said in the House that the law and order situation in the state has become pathetic under the BJP rule. Farmers issue Amarinder Singh meets PM Modi NEW DELHI, FORMER Punjab Chief Minister and BJP leader Amarinder Singh met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed a host of issues related to farmers, he said on Tuesday. Singh said in a post on X, Had a detailed meeting with Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on wide-ranging issues related to Punjab, including the issues concerning the farmers. The meeting comes amid the ongoing protest by farmers, mostly from Punjab, who on Monday rejected the Centres proposal to procure pulses, maize and cotton at a Minimum Support Price (MSP) by Government agencies for five years and reiterated their call to march to the national capital, seeking a legal guarantee for the MSP regime, among other demands. In the fourth round of talks with the farmer leaders on Sunday, a panel of three Union Ministers proposed that Government agencies would buy pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP for five years after entering into an agreement with farmers. Farmers rejected offer as they understood govts mischief; will provide justice to them: Cong: The Congress on Tuesday claimed that protesting farmers have rejected another false offer as they have understood the Governments mischief and asserted it is committed to providing legal guarantee of the MSP and take other necessary steps to provide justice to the tillers. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the legal guarantee for MSP will not make the farmers a burden on the budget but ensure they become the drivers of GDP growth. In a post in Hindi on X, Gandhi claimed that ever since the Congress resolved to provide legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP), Modis propaganda machinery and media friendly to him have spread a barrage of lies on MSP. JMC officials educate students in Tilhari about hazards of plastic waste Staff Reporter Under the Swachh Survekshan 2024, the Jabalpur Municipal Corporation is organizing Swachhata Ki Pathshala awareness campaign consecutively in schools, colonies and unclean areas. As part of the initiative, a cleanliness workshop was organized at a school in Veerangana Avanti Bai Ward, Tilhari, on Tuesday. During the programme a cleanliness rally and street play, aiming to spread awareness among school students, local residents, shopkeepers and citizens was organized in the vicinity. Through the medium of street plays and rallies, the participants apprised the public about importance of cleanliness and they also administered an oath to maintain cleanliness. The team of JMC officials and employees, the students, local residents, shopkeepers and surrounding residents were educated about the hazards of single-use plastics and diseases associated with them. The cleanliness drive encouraged everyone to contribute towards keeping various areas of the school premises clean. Likewise, people were also motivated to dispose of waste in the municipal waste collection vehicles, especially single-use plastics and waste generated from their homes and shops. Similarly, during the cleanliness rally, an appeal was made to handover waste, particularly single-use plastics and waste from homes and shops to the garbage collection vehicles of the Municipal Corporation. JMC employees urged people to fulfill their responsibility towards nature, including tree planting and environmental conservation. Onion prices fall by Rs 150 per quintal at Lasalgaon mandi Business Reporter Onion prices on Tuesday fell by Rs 150 per quintal at Lasalgaon mandi in Nashik district of Maharashtra after the government announcement that the ban on exports of the bulb will continue till March 31. Driven by reports of the lifting of the export ban on the commodity, the modal wholesale onion prices shot up 40.62 per cent to Rs 1,800 per quintal on February 19 in Lasalgaon, the country's largest wholesale onion market, from Rs 1,280 per quintal on February 17. However, on Tuesday the prices eased by Rs 150 per quintal to an average price of Rs 1,650 per quintal with 8,500 quintal onions auctioned. The prices increased a bit last week, however, with no government resolution (GR) or announcement about the lifting of the ban on onion exports, these have stabilised,Lasalgaon APMC chairman Balasaheb Kshirsagar said. Earlier in the day, Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh told PTI that the "ban on onion exports has not been lifted. It is in force and there is no change in the status." The Govern-ments supreme priority is to ensure enough domestic availability of onion at reasonable prices to consumers, he added. Ahead of general elections, the ban is unlikely to be lifted even after March 31 as rabi (winter) onion production is expected to be lower due to less coverage of area, especially in Maharashtra, sources said. In the 2023 rabi season, onion production was estimated to be at 22.7 million tonnes. The Agriculture Ministry officials will assess the rabi onion coverage in key growing states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat in the coming days. PM launches projects worth Rs 32K cr JAMMU : More IITs, IIMs for J&K PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the revocation of Article 370 was pivotal in fostering the comprehensive development of Jammu and Kashmir, asserting his Government was committed to transforming the Valley into a tourist destination that could rival Switzerland. Addressing a large gathering at the Maulana Azad Stadium here, where he launched projects worth over Rs 32,000 crore for Jammu and Kashmir and Rs 13,500 crore for other parts of the nation, Modi highlighted the surge in investments from Gulf countries following a G20 event held in the region last year, which brought global attention to its scenic beauty. Modi heralded a new era for the region and declared that Jammu and Kashmir is breaking free from dynastic rule, with his Government now directly engaging with the populace. During his over 30-minute speech, Modi reminisced about the tumultuous past of J&K marred by violence and separatism and commended the current shift towards a harmonious and prospering J&K, attributing it to balanced development initiatives. We have seen the days when only disappointing news used to come from J&K. Bomb, guns, kidnapping and separatism had become its misfortune. Today, we are seeing a new J&K with balanced and holistic development, Modi said in his speech which he began in Dogri language. Despite rain, thousands of locals attended the rally. It was Modis second visit to the Jammu region after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Earlier he had addressed a public rally in Samba district in April 2022. Expressing his vision for a flourishing Jammu and Kashmir, Modi vowed to construct infrastructure to rival international destinations like Switzerland. We have pledged a developed J&K and I have full faith that we will make Jammu and Kashmir more developed and fulfill all your dreams within the next few years...We will create such infrastructure in Kashmir that people will forget going to Switzerland, he said. The Prime Minister lauded the newfound spirit of the youth in the region, highlighting the transition from desolation to vibrancy in everyday life and also shared his optimism regarding investments from Gulf countries, underscoring the positive reception towards the erstwhile State. Article 370 was biggest hurdle in J&Ks development, says Modi: PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said Article 370, which granted Special Status to Jammu and Kashmir and was abrogated in 2019, was the biggest hurdle in the development of the erstwhile State. Modi also said that after the abrogation of Article 370, J&K has witnessed balanced development across regions and in all sectors. He also said the Government has reached peoples doorstep in Jammu and Kashmir the first time. This is Modis guarantee and this will continue, he said. The Prime Minister said Article 370 was the main hurdle in bringing all-round development in Jammu and Kashmir and the BJP Government has abrogated it. The Government whose priority is the welfare of just one family cannot think of the welfare of the common people. I am happy to see Jammu and Kashmir is getting free from the dynastic rule, he said A developed India means a developed Jammu and Kashmir. Modi said the common people of Jammu and Kashmir got assurance of social justice mentioned in the Constitution for first time after abrogation of Art 370. There is a lot of enthusiasm in the whole world today about a developing Jammu and Kashmir. Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan Yojana inaugurated digitally Staff Reporter Digital inaugural ceremony of Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan Yojana (PM-UShA) was organised at Pandit Kunjilal Dubey auditorium, Rani Durgavati University on Tuesday. The inaugural ceremony was attended by MLA Cantt, Ashok Rohani, MLA Jabalpur North Central, Dr. Abhilash Pandey, MLA, Sihora, Santosh Badkade as special guests. Vice-chancellor, RDU, Professor Rajesh Kumar Verma presided over the ceremony. Executive Member, Chandrashekhar Patel and Registrar, Dr. Deepesh Mishra were also present. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi graced the programme through virtual platform and inaugurated the scheme. The auditorium was packed with the professors, guest faculties, employees and students who heard the message conveyed by the Prime Minister. Addressing the gathering, MLA Rohani said that the Chief Minister, Dr. Mohan Yadav has given top priority to education. The State Government receives all support from the Central Government to pave way for progress of academic field.PM-UShA is one of the major pillars to practically implement the concept of Viksit Bharat introduced by the Prime Minister, which will ensure a bright future for the youths. MLA Pandey said that the Prime Minister has fixed the target to build Viksit Bharat on the theme of Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas. Everyones support and contribution is required to achieve the aim of constructive development of university. With everyones cooperation, we will definitely match the academic status of Madhya Pradesh to that of the country. SC overturns Chandigarh mayoral poll result, declares AAP candidate winner NEW Delhi : THE Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned the result of the Chandigarh mayoral poll in which the BJP candidate had emerged an unlikely winner, and declared defeated AAP-Congress alliance candidate Kuldeep Kumar as the new city Mayor. It also ordered prosecution of the returning officer for the poll, Anil Masih, a BJP leader, for his misdemeanour, after finding serious faults in the conduct of the January 30 election. The apex court made it clear that it was not quashing the entire electoral exercise and restricting itself to dealing with the wrong-doings in the counting process which led to invalidation of eight votes cast in Kumars favour. A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said it was evident that Masih made deliberate attempt to deface eight ballot papers. The BJP had won the mayoral poll defeating the comfortably placed AAP- Congress alliance candidate after the returning officer declared as invalid eight votes of the coalition partners, drawing accusations of tampering with ballots. Manoj Sonkar of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had defeated Kuldeep Kumar after polling 16 votes against his rivals 12 to bag the mayors post. Sonkar, however, resigned subsequently, while three AAP councillors defected to the BJP. Kejriwal thanks SC, says it saved democracy: The Supreme Court has saved democracy in these difficult times, Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday, thanking the court for its decision in the Chandigarh mayoral polls case. Thank you SC for saving democracy in these difficult times, Kejriwal said in a post on X. The BJP won the Chandigarh mayoral polls on January 30 defeating the comfortably placed AAP-Congress alliance candidate after the returning officer declared as invalid eight votes of the coalition partners, drawing accusations of tampering with ballots. Manoj Sonkar of the BJP defeated Kuldeep Kumar after polling 16 votes against his rivals 12 to bag the mayors post. Sonkar, however, resigned subsequently, while three AAP councillors defected to the BJP. SC decision on farcical Chandigarh mayoral poll will go long way to save Indias democracy: Cong: The Congress on Tuesday said the Supreme Courts decision on the farcical election for the mayors post in Chandigarh will go a long way to save Indian democracy. The entire election process was a complete farce, which has been duly exposed with this historic verdict, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal said in a post on X. For 4 months, we have been frequently seeking time from the Election Commission to discuss the issue of complete VVPAT counting, but it has not found any time for us so far. We hope the ECI moves swiftly and takes steps that will improve the peoples faith in the democratic process -- not dent it, he added. The Supreme Court said on Tuesday that it would direct a recounting of the votes polled in the controversial Chandigarh mayoral election and declaration of the results after considering eight defaced ballots declared invalid by the returning officer. The court also ordered the prosecution of returning officer Anil Masih for misdemeanour. People watch a dragon dance competing event during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Local people perform dragon dance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) An aerial drone photo shows a view of the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Local people perform dragon dance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Local people perform dragon dance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) An aerial drone photo shows people watching dragon dance performance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) A dragon dance performance is staged during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Local people perform dragon dance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) People participate in a dragon dance parade during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) People participate in a dragon dance parade during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) A child holds a dragon toy during a parade of "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Local people perform dragon dance during the "Maolong Festival" of Gelao ethnic group in Shiqian County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 20, 2024. The festival, as a folk activity for people of the Gelao ethnic group to celebrate the Spring Festival and lantern festival, is listed as one of the national intangible cultural heritages in 2006. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin) Situation horrific in Sandeshkhali: Suvendu SANDESHKHALI (WB), SENIOR BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, who arrived in Sandeshkhali in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district on Tuesday afternoon after getting permission from the Calcutta High Court, described the situation in the strife-torn area as horrific and a clear example of anarchy. Adhikari, along with another BJP MLA Sankar Ghosh, spoke to the locals, including women, who narrated their spine-chilling experiences endured at the hands of local TMC leaders, including absconding Shahjahan Sheikh. The BJP leaders were welcomed by locals, including women, after they reached Sandeshkhali by crossing the Kalindi River on a boat from Dhamakhali. The experiences narrated by the locals are spine-chilling. Their lands have been usurped, and women exploited... And everything happened with the help of the police and the administration. The situation is completely horrific and is a clear example of anarchy prevailing in the area, he said. Adhikari, who was once a close confidante of the then Opposition leader Mamata Banerjee during the days of the anti-land acquisition movement in Nandigram in 2007-08, was seen visiting houses and speaking to locals in Sandeshkhali. He switched over to the BJP ahead of the 2021 Assembly polls. Earlier in the day, police had stopped the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly from visiting Sandeshkhali, citing the imposition of prohibitory orders and the State Government moving the division bench against a single bench order on Monday allowing Adhikari to visit the trouble-torn area. NHRC notice to WB Police chief over journalists detention: THE NHRC has sent a notice to the West Bengals police chief over a complaint alleging that a journalist covering the Sandeshkhali issue was unlawfully detained, officials said on Tuesday. The National Human Rights Commission in a statement said the allegations raise a serious issue of violation of human rights and also restriction on the freedom of the press. The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of the complaint that the journalist of a TV channel was unlawfully detained while covering crimes against women in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal on February 19, it said in a statement. CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat allowed to visit Sandeshkhali: SENIOR CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat was on Tuesday allowed to visit the restive Sandeshkhali in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district after being initially stopped by police. Karat, who said that she was stopped at Dhamakhali ferry ghat by the police saying that they apprehended breach of peace if she went to Sandeshkhali, was later allowed to visit the protests-hit area by the police. Breach of peace occurred when women were called to the local Trinamool Congress offices and subjected to sexual assault, now it is a fight for justice, Karat told reporters at Dhamakhali, from where one has to cross Kalagachi river to reach Sandeshkhali. Karat who said that she and some other women CPI(M) leaders wanted to meet the alleged victims of sexual assault, later spoke to some women there. She claimed that what happened in Sandeshkhali was unprecedented. The Editors Guild of India on Tuesday termed as worrisome the arrest of an on-duty television journalist by the West Bengal Police. In a statement here, the Guild said the journalist -- Santu Pan -- was reporting live on television when he was whisked away by policemen. Pan, a journalist with Republic Bangla, was arrested from Sandeshkhali in West Bengal on Monday late evening. His arrest while on duty is worrisome, the Guild said. The statement said the police should certainly investigate if allegations have been levelled against the journalist but to take him away while he was reporting is indeed a cause for concern. State Boards HSC exam begins today Staff Reporter Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education is conducting Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) examination (Class XII) is beginning on Wednesday. Like last year, District administration has taken all necessary precautions to have copy-free examination. In Nagpur division, 1,63,017 students will be writing the examination, which is more by 7,104 as compared to the number of students who appeared last year--1,55,913. The number of examination centres have been raised too. Last year, there were 484 centres, which have been raised to 498 this year. HSC examination will begin on Wednesday, February 21, and will conclude on March 11. A circular from the Board stated that students, whose session starts at 11 am, should reach their respective rooms by 10.30, while those who are appearing for the 3 pm slot, should be at the centre by 2.30 pm. Students reaching after the distribution of question papers will not be allowed to enter. There are 13 flying squads for Nagpur division comprising six districts including Chandrapur, Gondia, Bhandara, Wardha, Gadchiroli, Nagpur. The State Board is determined to conduct the examination in a fair manner. It has taken several steps to have error-free, copy-free examination, the responsibility for which has been given to the district administration. Collector Dr Vipin Itankar had already convened a meeting wherein he told the officials that if any case of mass copying or unfair means found during examinations, the concerned Centre Heads, Head Master or teachers would be held responsible and action would be taken against them. TEMPLE OF INDIA! THERE may not be a better way to describe the core duty of every Indian -- to build the Temple of India, as put so aptly by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi at the foundation-stone-laying ceremony of proposed Kalki Dham (masterminded by Acharya Pramod Krishnam, the chief of the Kalkipeeth). The very idea of looking at the country as a temple has certain purity, certain piety, certain preciousness about it. For, in everybodys mind, a temple is an epitome of goodness, purity, religiosity. When a country is sought to be built on those values, the entire complexion of the effort changes to positivism of a rare variety. This context swirled up the mind of every Indian as the Prime Minister talked of building the temple of India. There are enough reasons to believe that the Prime Minister was not indulging in cosmetic and propagandist talks when he highlighted the idea of the temple that is India. The idea of temple goes well with the general psyche of the Indian people who harbour deep faith towards not just religion but also about fine values and good cultural practices. Temple indicates all those in one single metaphor. Of course, it is easier said than achieved when we get down to creating the temple that is India. For, in the passage of time of centuries, many dimensions of what a temple stands for have got blurred, thanks to invasions by the aliens, subversion by foreign rulers, suppression of the spirit of India at the hands of outsiders who had scant respect for Indian history, culture and ethos. And then came the nearly 150-year-rule of the British that actually caused the worst damage to the idea of India. What the British did to India was to colonise the Indian mind successfully -- so much so that a good percentage of Indian people started harbouring doubts about the original worth of India and its thought. In a way, the British were successful in planting serious self-doubt in the average Indian mind about India being the worlds greatest civilisation. The idea of building the temple of India, as prompted by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, has to contend with certain negative forces that are still operating in the countrys socio-political ecosystem to a big extent. True, in the past decade, the picture has changed quite favourably and the larger society has begun welcoming the idea named Bharat. This change will have to be harnessed to create the temple of India in the Prime Ministers mind. The temple of India cannot be built on vague lines of hollow poeticism. The idea will have to have a solid foundation and clearly-defined parameters. Ancient Indian wisdom -- expressed in the Vedas and the Upanishadas and countless other texts -- has often sought a world without narrow domestic walls fragmenting its foundation and its firmament. Going by those high standards, conscious effort will have to be done to keep the public discourse as clear of politics as possible so that divisions on account of petty issues are not allowed to interfere with the larger purpose of weaving a stronger texture of the Indian society. The task is certainly has its own challenges, no doubt. But given the current manner in which a lot of projects are being handled by the Narendra Modi Government, it can safely said that the country is moving in the right direction -- well beyond politics, far outside the purview of narrow gains to a handful few. The issue, thus, appears be moving in the right direction. Yet, much work will have to be done actually to start working on a well-drawn super structure of the temple in the Prime Ministers mind. The nation will have to commit itself to doing that task single-mindedly. CAIRO, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Secretary-General of the Arab League (AL) Ahmed Aboul Gheit on Wednesday condemned the United States for vetoing a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the AL said in a statement. Aboul Gheit voiced his "deep regret" over the U.S. move, the third time since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October of last year that the U.S. interfered to fail a draft resolution aimed to reach a ceasefire, read the statement. During an emergency session of the UN Security Council held in New York on Tuesday, the U.S. vetoed a resolution put forward on behalf of Arab states by Algeria demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave. The U.S. positions undermined the credibility of the international system and contributed to the paralysis witnessed by the United Nations, Aboul Gheit was quoted as saying in the AL statement. Aboul Gheit also underlined "the political and moral responsibility" of the U.S. for prolonging the Israeli offensive in Gaza. Algeria's draft resolution was backed by 13 out of the 15 Security Council members, while the United States vetoed against it and Britain abstained. Before the vote on the draft resolution, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said the Algerian draft would jeopardize ongoing efforts toward a hostage deal. She said her delegation was working on a rival draft resolution that would call for a "temporary ceasefire" based on the formula that all hostages are released. The ongoing Israeli air and ground strikes on Gaza came in retaliation to a surprise attack by Hamas, the Gaza-ruling faction, on Israel which killed about 1,200 people on Oct. 7 last year. Cambodia's Civil Service Minister Hun Many arrives at the National Assembly in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Feb. 21, 2024. Cambodia's National Assembly on Wednesday endorsed Civil Service Minister Hun Many as a new deputy prime minister. (Photo by Ly Lay/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's National Assembly on Wednesday endorsed Civil Service Minister Hun Many as a new deputy prime minister. Hun Many, who became the minister of the Ministry of Civil Service last August, is a younger brother of current Prime Minister Hun Manet and the youngest son of former Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen. Some 120 lawmakers in attendance, including Hun Manet, unanimously gave Hun Many their vote of confidence. "Based on the result of the vote, I would like to declare that Hun Many won the National Assembly's confidence vote as the deputy prime minister," National Assembly President Khuon Sudary announced at the end of the session. At the event, the parliament also approved the appointments of Sry Thamarong and Pen Vibol, currently ministers attached to the prime minister, as senior ministers in charge of special mission. Speaking before the voting session, Hun Manet said the fresh appointments were made in response to "the necessary need for promoting the most efficient implementation of the political programs of the government in the seventh legislature of the National Assembly". With the latest appointments, the number of deputy prime ministers in the Southeast Asian country has increased to 11, and the number of senior ministers has risen to 23. The National Assembly is made up of 125 lawmakers, including 120 from the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and five from the royalist Funcinpec Party. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in Adtalem Global Education Inc. (NYSE:ATGE Free Report) by 26.9% in the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,212,467 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 257,182 shares during the quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Adtalem Global Education were worth $51,954,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in Adtalem Global Education in the 2nd quarter valued at $2,753,000. Campbell & CO Investment Adviser LLC acquired a new position in Adtalem Global Education during the 3rd quarter worth about $653,000. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund acquired a new position in Adtalem Global Education during the 3rd quarter worth about $1,060,000. Cambria Investment Management L.P. lifted its position in Adtalem Global Education by 7.0% during the 3rd quarter. Cambria Investment Management L.P. now owns 205,025 shares of the companys stock worth $8,785,000 after buying an additional 13,475 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp acquired a new position in Adtalem Global Education during the 3rd quarter worth about $1,827,000. 95.77% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Adtalem Global Education alerts: Adtalem Global Education Stock Performance ATGE stock traded down $0.07 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $45.93. 38,799 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 668,012. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51, a current ratio of 0.95 and a quick ratio of 0.95. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $56.04 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $50.99. Adtalem Global Education Inc. has a one year low of $33.59 and a one year high of $62.99. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.85, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.68 and a beta of 0.93. Analyst Ratings Changes Adtalem Global Education ( NYSE:ATGE Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The company reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.23. The company had revenue of $393.24 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $372.79 million. Adtalem Global Education had a net margin of 7.93% and a return on equity of 13.05%. Adtalem Global Educations quarterly revenue was up 8.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.17 earnings per share. Equities research analysts forecast that Adtalem Global Education Inc. will post 4.64 EPS for the current year. Several brokerages recently issued reports on ATGE. Robert W. Baird upgraded shares of Adtalem Global Education from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and upped their price target for the stock from $47.00 to $55.00 in a research report on Friday, October 27th. Barrington Research raised their target price on shares of Adtalem Global Education from $55.00 to $65.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 19th. Finally, StockNews.com lowered shares of Adtalem Global Education from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $56.67. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Adtalem Global Education Insider Activity In other news, SVP Blake Simpson sold 550 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.23, for a total value of $32,576.50. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 7,986 shares of the companys stock, valued at $473,010.78. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, CMO Maurice Herrera sold 4,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.00, for a total value of $252,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief marketing officer now owns 24,519 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,471,140. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, SVP Blake Simpson sold 550 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.23, for a total value of $32,576.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 7,986 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $473,010.78. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Adtalem Global Education Company Profile (Free Report) Adtalem Global Education Inc provides workforce solutions worldwide. It operates through three segments, Chamberlain, Walden, and Medical and Veterinary. The Chamberlain segment offers degree and non-degree programs in the nursing and health professions postsecondary education industry. This segment operates Chamberlain University. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ATGE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Adtalem Global Education Inc. (NYSE:ATGE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Adtalem Global Education Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Adtalem Global Education and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) updated its FY24 earnings guidance on Wednesday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $5.00-5.15 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.05. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several analysts recently issued reports on the stock. UBS Group reaffirmed a sell rating and set a $36.10 price objective on shares of Altria Group in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. StockNews.com cut shares of Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $47.22. Get Altria Group alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on MO Altria Group Price Performance Shares of MO traded up $0.13 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $40.38. The stock had a trading volume of 3,253,031 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,969,255. Altria Group has a 1-year low of $39.06 and a 1-year high of $48.04. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $40.79 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $41.77. The company has a market cap of $71.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.81, a PEG ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 0.66. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The company reported $1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, beating 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 business had revenue of $5.02 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.06 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.18 EPS. The companys revenue was down 1.2% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Altria Group will post 5.08 earnings per share for the current year. Altria Group Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 21st were given a $0.98 dividend. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 9.71%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, December 20th. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 85.78%. Altria Group declared that its board has approved a share buyback plan on Thursday, February 1st that authorizes the company to repurchase $1.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the company to purchase up to 1.4% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase plans are generally a sign that the companys board of directors believes its stock is undervalued. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of MO. Empirical Finance LLC lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 1.1% in the 4th quarter. Empirical Finance LLC now owns 21,586 shares of the companys stock worth $987,000 after acquiring an additional 225 shares during the period. Vicus Capital lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 5.5% in the 2nd quarter. Vicus Capital now owns 5,125 shares of the companys stock worth $232,000 after acquiring an additional 265 shares during the period. Aureus Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 2.1% in the 4th quarter. Aureus Asset Management LLC now owns 13,247 shares of the companys stock worth $606,000 after acquiring an additional 276 shares during the period. Certified Advisory Corp lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 1.4% in the 4th quarter. Certified Advisory Corp now owns 24,669 shares of the companys stock worth $1,128,000 after acquiring an additional 331 shares during the period. Finally, Bristlecone Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Altria Group by 6.0% in the 4th quarter. Bristlecone Advisors LLC now owns 6,272 shares of the companys stock worth $287,000 after acquiring an additional 355 shares during the period. 58.94% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Altria Group (Get 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. Recommended Stories 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. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL Free Report) by 9.4% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 5,833 shares of the transportation companys stock after purchasing an additional 500 shares during the period. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLCs holdings in Delta Air Lines were worth $216,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Acadian Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Delta Air Lines in the first quarter valued at $217,000. Panagora Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 41.8% during the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 25,838 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,022,000 after buying an additional 7,616 shares during the period. APG Asset Management N.V. purchased a new stake in shares of Delta Air Lines in the first quarter worth about $243,000. Raymond James Trust N.A. boosted its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 20.7% in the first quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 9,918 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $392,000 after acquiring an additional 1,700 shares during the period. Finally, Cibc World Market Inc. grew its stake in Delta Air Lines by 3.1% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 29,508 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,168,000 after acquiring an additional 891 shares in the last quarter. 71.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Delta Air Lines alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Delta Air Lines In other news, CEO Edward H. Bastian sold 71,840 shares of Delta Air Lines stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $39.20, for a total transaction of $2,816,128.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 428,768 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,807,705.60. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.89% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Delta Air Lines Stock Performance Shares of Delta Air Lines stock traded down $0.39 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $40.21. 646,799 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 11,094,813. Delta Air Lines, Inc. has a 1 year low of $30.60 and a 1 year high of $49.81. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $40.08 and a 200-day simple moving average of $38.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.54, a current ratio of 0.39 and a quick ratio of 0.34. The stock has a market capitalization of $25.87 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.66, a PEG ratio of 0.72 and a beta of 1.42. Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The transportation company reported $1.28 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.17 by $0.11. The firm had revenue of $14.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.55 billion. Delta Air Lines had a return on equity of 46.35% and a net margin of 7.94%. The companys revenue was up 5.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.48 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Delta Air Lines, Inc. will post 6.57 EPS for the current year. Delta Air Lines Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 18th. Investors of record on Monday, February 26th will be given a dividend of $0.10 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 23rd. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.99%. Delta Air Liness dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 5.59%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. TheStreet upgraded shares of Delta Air Lines from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. StockNews.com raised Delta Air Lines from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Delta Air Lines has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $55.54. View Our Latest Stock Report on DAL About Delta Air Lines (Free Report) Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Bogota, Lima, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Sao Paulo, Seoul-Incheon, and Tokyo. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DAL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Delta Air Lines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Delta Air Lines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Barclays (NYSE:BCS Get Free Report) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (OTCMKTS:CBAUF Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, risk, institutional ownership, earnings, analyst recommendations, valuation and profitability. Analyst Ratings This is a summary of recent ratings and recommmendations for Barclays and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Get Barclays alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Barclays 1 1 2 0 2.25 Commonwealth Bank of Australia 0 0 0 0 N/A Profitability Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Barclays 21.21% 7.73% 0.35% Commonwealth Bank of Australia N/A N/A N/A Insider & Institutional Ownership This table compares Barclays and Commonwealth Bank of Australias net margins, return on equity and return on assets. 3.4% of Barclays shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 13.6% of Commonwealth Bank of Australia shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.0% of Barclays shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Valuation & Earnings This table compares Barclays and Commonwealth Bank of Australias gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Barclays $30.88 billion 1.03 $7.33 billion $1.71 4.89 Commonwealth Bank of Australia N/A N/A N/A $5.22 13.85 Barclays has higher revenue and earnings than Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Barclays is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Commonwealth Bank of Australia, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Dividends Barclays pays an annual dividend of $0.26 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.1%. Commonwealth Bank of Australia pays an annual dividend of $3.83 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.3%. Barclays pays out 15.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Commonwealth Bank of Australia pays out 73.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Summary Barclays beats Commonwealth Bank of Australia on 7 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks. About Barclays (Get Free Report) Barclays PLC provides various financial services in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The company operates through two segments, Barclays UK and Barclays International divisions. It offers financial services, such as retail banking, credit cards, wholesale banking, investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services. The company also engages in securities dealing activities. The company was formerly known as Barclays Bank Limited and changed its name to Barclays PLC in January 1985. Barclays PLC was founded in 1690 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. About Commonwealth Bank of Australia (Get Free Report) Commonwealth Bank of Australia provides financial services in Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. It operates through Retail Banking Services, Business Banking, Institutional Banking and Markets, and New Zealand segments. The company offers transaction, savings, and foreign currency accounts; term deposits; personal and business loans; overdrafts; equipment finance; credit cards; international payment and trade; and private banking services, as well as home and car loans. It also provides retail, premium, business, offshore, and institutional banking services; and funds management, superannuation, and share broking products and services, as well as car, health, life, income protection, and travel insurance. In addition, the company offers advisory services for high-net-worth individuals; equities trading and margin lending services; debt capital, transaction banking, working capital, and risk management services; and international and foreign exchange services. Commonwealth Bank of Australia was founded in 1911 and is based in Sydney, Australia. Receive News & Ratings for Barclays Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Barclays and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH Free Report) by 1.5% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 509,885 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 7,888 shares during the quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC owned 0.53% of Tri Pointe Homes worth $13,945,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the business. Raymond James & Associates grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 2.1% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 176,362 shares of the construction companys stock worth $3,541,000 after purchasing an additional 3,591 shares in the last quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 53.8% in the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 25,492 shares of the construction companys stock worth $512,000 after purchasing an additional 8,922 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 25.8% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 10,793 shares of the construction companys stock worth $224,000 after purchasing an additional 2,213 shares in the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 39.4% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 128,677 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,584,000 after purchasing an additional 36,396 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its stake in Tri Pointe Homes by 10.5% in the first quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 40,731 shares of the construction companys stock worth $818,000 after purchasing an additional 3,884 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 97.59% of the companys stock. Get Tri Pointe Homes alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, Wedbush reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $32.00 target price on shares of Tri Pointe Homes in a research report on Tuesday. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $36.00. Tri Pointe Homes Stock Up 2.6 % Shares of Tri Pointe Homes stock traded up $0.91 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $35.69. The companys stock had a trading volume of 49,049 shares, compared to its average volume of 670,229. The company has a quick ratio of 1.72, a current ratio of 1.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. The company has a market cap of $3.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.54, a P/E/G ratio of 0.75 and a beta of 1.53. Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. has a 1-year low of $22.95 and a 1-year high of $36.43. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $34.76 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $30.82. Tri Pointe Homes (NYSE:TPH Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 20th. The construction company reported $1.36 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.12 by $0.24. The firm had revenue of $1.24 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.20 billion. Tri Pointe Homes had a return on equity of 14.36% and a net margin of 10.53%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 17.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.98 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. will post 3.22 earnings per share for the current year. Tri Pointe Homes Profile (Free Report) Tri Pointe Homes, Inc engages in the design, construction, and sale of single-family attached and detached homes in the United States. The company operates through a portfolio of six regional home building brands comprising Maracay in Arizona; Pardee Homes in California and Nevada; Quadrant Homes in Washington; Trendmaker Homes in Texas; TRI Pointe Homes in California, Colorado, and the Carolinas; and Winchester Homes in Maryland and Northern Virginia. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TPH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Tri Pointe Homes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tri Pointe Homes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC cut its stake in shares of Radian Group Inc. (NYSE:RDN Free Report) by 2.0% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 478,423 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 9,658 shares during the quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC owned approximately 0.31% of Radian Group worth $12,013,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in Radian Group by 575.2% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 12,765,182 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $282,110,000 after buying an additional 10,874,587 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in Radian Group by 202.0% during the second quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 3,295,712 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $64,760,000 after buying an additional 2,204,335 shares during the period. State Street Corp increased its holdings in Radian Group by 45.6% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,009,760 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $154,915,000 after buying an additional 2,195,362 shares during the period. Virginia Retirement Systems ET AL purchased a new position in Radian Group during the second quarter valued at approximately $49,577,000. Finally, BlackRock Inc. increased its holdings in Radian Group by 12.8% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 15,104,763 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $333,815,000 after buying an additional 1,710,552 shares during the period. 96.17% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Radian Group alerts: Radian Group Stock Performance Shares of RDN traded up $0.05 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $27.54. 30,751 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,060,375. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.27, a P/E/G ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.02. The company has a quick ratio of 1.43, a current ratio of 0.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. Radian Group Inc. has a 12-month low of $20.01 and a 12-month high of $29.69. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $28.55 and a 200-day moving average price of $27.00. Radian Group Increases Dividend Radian Group ( NYSE:RDN Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 7th. The insurance provider reported $0.96 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $328.64 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $319.04 million. Radian Group had a net margin of 48.51% and a return on equity of 14.75%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.05 earnings per share. Equities analysts anticipate that Radian Group Inc. will post 3.27 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 12th. Stockholders of record on Monday, February 26th will be issued a dividend of $0.245 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 23rd. This is a positive change from Radian Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. This represents a $0.98 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.56%. Radian Groups payout ratio is 23.81%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts recently issued reports on RDN shares. UBS Group started coverage on shares of Radian Group in a report on Wednesday, December 6th. They set a neutral rating and a $28.00 price objective on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised shares of Radian Group from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $29.00 price target on the stock in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, Barclays began coverage on shares of Radian Group in a report on Wednesday, November 15th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $28.00 price target on the stock. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $28.60. View Our Latest Analysis on RDN Radian Group Profile (Free Report) Radian Group Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mortgage and real estate services business in the United States. The company operates through Mortgage and Homegenius segments. The Mortgage segment offers credit-related insurance coverage primarily through private mortgage insurance on residential first-lien mortgage loans, as well as other credit risk management, contract underwriting solutions. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Radian Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Radian Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC trimmed its position in Boise Cascade (NYSE:BCC Free Report) by 0.3% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 129,269 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 414 shares during the period. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLCs holdings in Boise Cascade were worth $13,320,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in BCC. Westwood Holdings Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Boise Cascade in the 2nd quarter valued at $78,175,000. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Boise Cascade during the 4th quarter worth about $35,996,000. Point72 Asset Management L.P. grew its position in Boise Cascade by 10,958.4% during the 2nd quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 263,300 shares of the construction companys stock worth $23,789,000 after purchasing an additional 260,919 shares during the period. FMR LLC grew its position in Boise Cascade by 257.5% during the 2nd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 302,851 shares of the construction companys stock worth $18,016,000 after purchasing an additional 218,130 shares during the period. Finally, BlackRock Inc. grew its position in Boise Cascade by 3.0% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 6,609,770 shares of the construction companys stock worth $459,180,000 after purchasing an additional 191,595 shares during the period. 91.75% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Boise Cascade alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In BCC has been the topic of several analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets cut their price target on Boise Cascade from $115.00 to $112.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, November 7th. Truist Financial raised their target price on Boise Cascade from $126.00 to $156.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 4th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on Boise Cascade from $114.00 to $129.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $121.20. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Director Sue Ying Taylor sold 1,503 shares of Boise Cascade stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $113.49, for a total transaction of $170,575.47. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 8,139 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $923,695.11. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.89% of the companys stock. Boise Cascade Price Performance BCC traded down $7.87 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $128.00. The companys stock had a trading volume of 66,247 shares, compared to its average volume of 220,041. Boise Cascade has a 1 year low of $59.32 and a 1 year high of $143.56. The company has a quick ratio of 2.57, a current ratio of 3.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $131.65 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $114.02. The company has a market cap of $5.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.76 and a beta of 1.61. Boise Cascade (NYSE:BCC Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, February 20th. The construction company reported $2.44 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.45 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $1.64 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.64 billion. Boise Cascade had a net margin of 7.38% and a return on equity of 23.21%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 1.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.95 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Boise Cascade will post 12.13 EPS for the current year. Boise Cascade Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a $0.20 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.63%. Boise Cascades dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 6.33%. Boise Cascade Profile (Free Report) Boise Cascade Company engages in manufacture of wood products and distribution of building materials in the United States and Canada. It operates through two segments, Wood Products and Building Materials Distribution. The Wood Products segment manufactures laminated veneer lumber and laminated beams used in headers and beams; I-joists for residential and commercial flooring and roofing systems, and other structural applications; structural, appearance, and industrial plywood panels; and ponderosa pine lumber products. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BCC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Boise Cascade (NYSE:BCC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Boise Cascade Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Boise Cascade and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cooper Creek Partners Management LLC purchased a new stake in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund purchased 378,470 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $15,915,000. Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Simmons Bank lifted its stake in Altria Group by 2.6% during the 2nd quarter. Simmons Bank now owns 39,392 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,784,000 after acquiring an additional 1,011 shares in the last quarter. Mount Yale Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Altria Group by 7.3% during the 3rd quarter. Mount Yale Investment Advisors LLC now owns 31,007 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,304,000 after acquiring an additional 2,122 shares in the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in Altria Group by 20.9% during the 2nd quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 773,980 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,050,000 after acquiring an additional 133,685 shares in the last quarter. Bridgewater Associates LP raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 18.7% during the 2nd quarter. Bridgewater Associates LP now owns 1,276,258 shares of the companys stock worth $57,814,000 after purchasing an additional 200,981 shares during the period. Finally, Commonwealth Equity Services LLC raised its stake in shares of Altria Group by 2.3% during the 3rd quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC now owns 1,459,613 shares of the companys stock worth $61,377,000 after purchasing an additional 32,844 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.94% of the companys stock. Get Altria Group alerts: Altria Group Stock Up 0.3 % Altria Group stock traded up $0.12 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $40.37. The stock had a trading volume of 3,162,862 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,969,255. Altria Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $39.06 and a 12 month high of $48.04. The firms 50-day moving average price is $40.79 and its 200 day moving average price is $41.77. The firm has a market capitalization of $71.40 billion, a PE ratio of 8.81, a P/E/G ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 0.66. Altria Group Dividend Announcement Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The company reported $1.18 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.17 by $0.01. Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 243.71% and a net margin of 33.21%. The business had revenue of $5.02 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.06 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.18 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 1.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts expect that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.08 EPS for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 21st were paid a $0.98 dividend. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 9.71%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, December 20th. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 85.78%. Altria Group declared that its board has authorized a share buyback plan on Thursday, February 1st that authorizes the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the company to buy up to 1.4% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are often a sign that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In MO has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. StockNews.com cut Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. UBS Group reiterated a sell rating and set a $36.10 target price on shares of Altria Group in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Altria Group has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $47.22. View Our Latest Research Report on Altria Group 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. Read More 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. BEIJING, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official Shi Taifeng met with Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po on Wednesday in Beijing. Shi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, extended greetings for the Spring Festival and the Tibetan New Year to Panchen Rinpoche and all Tibetan Buddhism believers. Panchen Rinpoche presented Shi with a hada scarf. Acknowledging the achievements made by Panchen Rinpoche over the past year, Shi expressed the hope that Panchen Rinpoche can conscientiously study Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and maintain a high degree of unity with the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core ideologically, politically and in action. Shi also expressed the hope that Panchen Rinpoche can uphold the principle of developing Tibetan Buddhism in the Chinese context, and actively contribute to advancing the adaptation of Tibetan Buddhism to the socialist society. Panchen Rinpoche said he would continue to improve political standards and religious knowledge, inherit and carry forward the patriotic and religious tradition of the Tibetan Buddhist community, and resolutely safeguard national unity and ethnic solidarity. Shares of FactSet Research Systems Inc. (NYSE:FDS Get Free Report) have earned an average rating of Reduce from the ten analysts that are covering the company, MarketBeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $434.25. Several research firms have recently weighed in on FDS. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating and issued a $480.00 target price (up previously from $471.00) on shares of FactSet Research Systems in a research report on Friday, December 8th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price target on shares of FactSet Research Systems from $436.00 to $469.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on shares of FactSet Research Systems from $436.00 to $447.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and set a $464.00 price objective on shares of FactSet Research Systems in a research report on Wednesday, December 20th. Get FactSet Research Systems alerts: View Our Latest Report on FactSet Research Systems Insider Buying and Selling at FactSet Research Systems Institutional Investors Weigh In On FactSet Research Systems In other FactSet Research Systems news, CEO Frederick Philip Snow sold 3,000 shares of FactSet Research Systems stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $476.02, for a total value of $1,428,060.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 12,915 shares in the company, valued at $6,147,798.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . In other news, CEO Frederick Philip Snow sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $476.02, for a total value of $1,428,060.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 12,915 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,147,798.30. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink . Also, Director Laurie Siegel sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $475.84, for a total transaction of $713,760.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 595 shares in the company, valued at $283,124.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold 17,805 shares of company stock worth $8,164,021 over the last quarter. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Sanibel Captiva Trust Company Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of FactSet Research Systems in the 4th quarter valued at $3,165,000. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio increased its stake in FactSet Research Systems by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 17,338 shares of the business services providers stock worth $8,271,000 after buying an additional 133 shares during the period. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV increased its stake in FactSet Research Systems by 21.1% during the 4th quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 2,655 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,267,000 after buying an additional 463 shares during the period. Kensington Investment Counsel LLC increased its stake in FactSet Research Systems by 1.1% during the 4th quarter. Kensington Investment Counsel LLC now owns 4,966 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,369,000 after buying an additional 55 shares during the period. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc increased its stake in FactSet Research Systems by 18.5% during the 4th quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 329,933 shares of the business services providers stock worth $157,394,000 after buying an additional 51,396 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.50% of the companys stock. FactSet Research Systems Trading Down 0.3 % FactSet Research Systems stock opened at $456.86 on Wednesday. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $466.75 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $449.17. The company has a current ratio of 1.68, a quick ratio of 1.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91. FactSet Research Systems has a 12 month low of $377.89 and a 12 month high of $487.79. The firm has a market cap of $17.40 billion, a PE ratio of 36.96, a P/E/G ratio of 2.82 and a beta of 0.75. FactSet Research Systems (NYSE:FDS Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, December 19th. The business services provider reported $4.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.10 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $542.20 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $540.34 million. FactSet Research Systems had a net margin of 22.60% and a return on equity of 34.47%. The companys revenue was up 7.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.99 earnings per share. Analysts anticipate that FactSet Research Systems will post 15.76 earnings per share for the current year. FactSet Research Systems Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 21st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be given a $0.98 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 28th. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.86%. FactSet Research Systemss dividend payout ratio is currently 31.72%. FactSet Research Systems Company Profile (Get Free Report FactSet Research Systems Inc, a financial data company, provides integrated financial information and analytical applications to the investment community in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company delivers insight and information through the workflow solutions of research, analytics and trading, content and technology solutions, and wealth. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for FactSet Research Systems Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for FactSet Research Systems and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fresenius Medical Care AG (NYSE:FMS Get Free Report)s stock price traded down 5.7% on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $19.38 and last traded at $19.44. 88,218 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 77% from the average session volume of 383,245 shares. The stock had previously closed at $20.62. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Societe Generale upgraded shares of Fresenius Medical Care from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, November 17th. Morgan Stanley cut shares of Fresenius Medical Care from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating in a research note on Monday, January 8th. StockNews.com lowered shares of Fresenius Medical Care from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Finally, HSBC raised shares of Fresenius Medical Care from a reduce rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $32.25. Get Fresenius Medical Care alerts: View Our Latest Stock Report on Fresenius Medical Care Fresenius Medical Care Stock Performance Institutional Inflows and Outflows The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.02 and a current ratio of 1.37. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $20.30 and its 200-day simple moving average is $20.63. The firm has a market capitalization of $11.31 billion, a PE ratio of 23.51, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.93 and a beta of 1.02. A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Wetherby Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Fresenius Medical Care by 9.0% in the first quarter. Wetherby Asset Management Inc. now owns 6,807 shares of the companys stock valued at $229,000 after purchasing an additional 560 shares in the last quarter. Comerica Bank purchased a new position in shares of Fresenius Medical Care in the second quarter valued at $140,000. Signaturefd LLC boosted its stake in Fresenius Medical Care by 7.3% during the third quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 8,601 shares of the companys stock worth $185,000 after buying an additional 584 shares during the period. Morningstar Investment Services LLC boosted its stake in Fresenius Medical Care by 6.4% during the third quarter. Morningstar Investment Services LLC now owns 10,145 shares of the companys stock worth $220,000 after buying an additional 612 shares during the period. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its stake in Fresenius Medical Care by 2.6% during the second quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 24,144 shares of the companys stock worth $578,000 after buying an additional 616 shares during the period. 5.81% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Fresenius Medical Care Company Profile (Get Free Report) Fresenius Medical Care AG provides dialysis and related services for individuals with renal diseases in Germany, North America, and internationally. The company offers dialysis treatment and related laboratory and diagnostic services through a network of outpatient dialysis clinics; materials, training, and patient support services comprising clinical monitoring, follow-up assistance, and arranging for delivery of the supplies to the patient's residence; and dialysis services under contract to hospitals in the United States for the hospitalized end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients and for patients suffering from acute kidney failure. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Fresenius Medical Care Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fresenius Medical Care and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR Free Report) by 12.8% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,944,864 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 220,674 shares during the period. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Portland General Electric were worth $78,728,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in POR. Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 1,022.6% in the 2nd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 3,105,863 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $145,448,000 after acquiring an additional 2,829,184 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 86.9% in the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 2,554,741 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $119,639,000 after acquiring an additional 1,187,890 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 21.8% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 6,067,961 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $334,647,000 after acquiring an additional 1,087,996 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 8.4% in the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 12,672,161 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $593,437,000 after acquiring an additional 986,445 shares during the period. Finally, State Street Corp raised its position in shares of Portland General Electric by 37.2% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,339,567 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $162,473,000 after acquiring an additional 905,308 shares during the period. Get Portland General Electric alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently weighed in on POR shares. Mizuho reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $42.00 price target (down from $43.00) on shares of Portland General Electric in a research report on Tuesday. UBS Group upgraded shares of Portland General Electric from a neutral rating to a buy rating and cut their price target for the company from $47.00 to $45.00 in a research report on Monday, January 29th. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH assumed coverage on Portland General Electric in a research note on Thursday, November 9th. They set a buy rating and a $43.00 target price for the company. Barclays lowered their target price on Portland General Electric from $47.00 to $45.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, January 22nd. Finally, StockNews.com raised Portland General Electric from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a 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 $46.11. Portland General Electric Stock Up 1.2 % Shares of POR traded up $0.48 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $41.44. 58,709 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,022,622. The company has a market cap of $4.19 billion, a PE ratio of 17.59, a P/E/G ratio of 2.60 and a beta of 0.58. Portland General Electric has a 52 week low of $38.01 and a 52 week high of $51.58. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $41.92 and a 200 day simple moving average of $42.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.74. Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 16th. The utilities provider reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.88 by ($0.20). The company had revenue of $725.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $740.21 million. Portland General Electric had a net margin of 7.80% and a return on equity of 7.21%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.70 EPS. On average, research analysts forecast that Portland General Electric will post 3.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Portland General Electric Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 22nd will be issued a dividend of $0.475 per share. This represents a $1.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.58%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 21st. Portland General Electrics dividend payout ratio is 81.55%. Portland General Electric Profile (Free Report) Portland General Electric Company, an integrated electric utility company, engages in the generation, wholesale purchase, transmission, distribution, and retail sale of electricity in the state of Oregon. It operates six thermal plants, three wind farms, and seven hydroelectric facilities. As of December 31, 2022, the company owned an electric transmission system consisting of 1,255 circuit miles, including 269 circuit miles of 500 kilovolt line, 413 circuit miles of 230 kilovolt line, and 573 miles of 115 kilovolt line; and served 926 thousand retail customers in 51 cities. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding POR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Portland General Electric Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Portland General Electric and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Greencore Group plc (LON:GNC Get Free Report) insider Anne OLeary bought 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 20th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 105 ($1.32) per share, for a total transaction of 52,500 ($66,104.26). Greencore Group Stock Performance Shares of LON GNC traded up GBX 0.30 ($0.00) during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting GBX 104.60 ($1.32). The company had a trading volume of 748,904 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,232,283. Greencore Group plc has a 12 month low of GBX 68.35 ($0.86) and a 12 month high of GBX 106 ($1.33). The stock has a market cap of 491.34 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,490.00, a PEG ratio of 0.10 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 68.62, a current ratio of 0.69 and a quick ratio of 0.62. The firms 50 day simple moving average is GBX 99.30 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 91.12. Get Greencore Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Shore Capital reaffirmed a house stock rating on shares of Greencore Group in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Greencore Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) Greencore Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells convenience food products in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The company offers sandwiches, salads, sushi, chilled snacking, chilled ready meals, chilled soups and sauces, chilled quiche, ambient sauces and pickles, and frozen Yorkshire Puddings. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Greencore Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Greencore Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Andrea Electronics (OTCMKTS:ANDR Get Free Report) and Samsung Electronics (OTCMKTS:SSNLF Get Free Report) are both consumer discretionary companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, valuation, dividends, earnings, analyst recommendations, profitability and risk. Institutional and Insider Ownership 0.0% of Andrea Electronics shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 0.0% of Samsung Electronics shares are owned by institutional investors. 13.2% of Andrea Electronics shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Get Andrea Electronics alerts: Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of recent ratings for Andrea Electronics and Samsung Electronics, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Andrea Electronics 0 0 0 0 N/A Samsung Electronics 0 0 1 0 3.00 Volatility and Risk Andrea Electronics has a beta of -0.03, meaning that its stock price is 103% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Samsung Electronics has a beta of 0.88, meaning that its stock price is 12% less volatile than the S&P 500. Profitability This table compares Andrea Electronics and Samsung Electronics net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Andrea Electronics N/A N/A N/A Samsung Electronics 9.12% N/A N/A Valuation & Earnings This table compares Andrea Electronics and Samsung Electronics gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Andrea Electronics $1.96 million 0.68 -$290,000.00 N/A N/A Samsung Electronics $197.69 billion 0.03 $18.45 billion $2.68 15.15 Samsung Electronics has higher revenue and earnings than Andrea Electronics. Summary Samsung Electronics beats Andrea Electronics on 6 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks. About Andrea Electronics (Get Free Report) Andrea Electronics Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, and manufactures digital microphone products and noise reduction software that facilitate natural language and human/machine interfaces for the computer and business enterprise markets in the United States and internationally. The company develops digital signal processing (DSP) products and technologies for the voice, speech, and natural language interface markets. Its DSP microphone and audio noise reduction software products include DA-350 auto array microphone for far-field voice intelligibility and accuracy of automatic speech recognition in automotive and mass transit environments; DA-250 OEM array microphone, a small compact stereo array microphone and DSP circuit board platform; USB-SA array microphone, which offers a USB digital audio adapter to bypass a computer's standard integrated sound system; AudioCommander, a PC audio control panel; an audio software for Mac that offers an intuitive graphic user interface to control stereo array microphone beam forming and noise cancellation on the input and EQ filters; PureAudio Live Recorder, a digital voice and audio recording application; and PureAudio Plus Recorder, which provides bookmarks for navigation of recordings. Its products are used in various applications, including mass transit and automotive communication systems, automated teller machines, information kiosks, quick service restaurant automated ordering, Internet of Things, smart building entrance intercom systems, audio and video recordings, and video surveillance. The company markets and sells its products through sales representatives to computer and kiosk OEMs and industrial system integrators. Andrea Electronics Corporation was incorporated in 1934 and is headquartered in Bohemia, New York. About Samsung Electronics (Get Free Report) Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. engages in the consumer electronics, information technology and mobile communications, and device solutions businesses worldwide. The company offers smartphones, tablets, watches, and accessories; TVs, projectors, and sound devices; home appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines and dryers, vacuum cleaners, cooking appliances, dishwashers, air conditioners, and air purifiers; monitors, and memory and storage products; displays, and smart and LED signages; and other accessories. It also engages in technology, venture capital investments, cloud services, network devices installation and optimization, semiconductor equipment services, digital advertising platforms, marketing, consulting, connected services, logistics, financing, and software design activities; toll processing of display panels and semiconductors; development and sale of network solutions; manufactures semiconductors and food; provision of repair services for electronic devices and enterprise automation solutions; and development and supply of semiconductor process defect and quality control software. The company serves various industries, including education, retail, and finance, as well as government and corporate customers. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. was incorporated in 1969 and is based in Suwon-si, South Korea. Receive News & Ratings for Andrea Electronics Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Andrea Electronics and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund decreased its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 69.9% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 42,000 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 97,700 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Funds holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $13,590,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in GS. Cambridge Trust Co. boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 82.0% during the third quarter. Cambridge Trust Co. now owns 91 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 41 shares during the last quarter. Pacific Center for Financial Services bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. First Capital Advisors Group LLC. purchased a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the second quarter valued at approximately $34,000. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. purchased a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the second quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Finally, Worth Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $33,000. Institutional investors own 69.06% of the companys stock. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of brokerages have issued reports on GS. UBS Group upped their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $382.00 to $440.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $398.00 to $421.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 9th. Barclays upped their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $437.00 to $493.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Oppenheimer upped their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $491.00 to $506.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. Finally, JMP Securities reiterated a market outperform rating and issued a $440.00 price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Wednesday, January 17th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued 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 $409.93. The Goldman Sachs Group Trading Down 0.0 % GS traded down $0.09 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $384.43. 539,703 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,340,508. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $382.34 and a 200 day simple moving average of $346.09. The firm has a market cap of $125.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.86, a P/E/G ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 1.43. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 1 year low of $289.36 and a 1 year high of $396.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.07, a quick ratio of 0.77 and a current ratio of 1.14. The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, January 16th. The investment management company reported $5.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.62 by $1.86. The business had revenue of $11.32 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.80 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 7.82% and a net margin of 7.85%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $3.32 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 32.66 EPS for the current year. The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be given a $2.75 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 28th. This represents a $11.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.86%. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is 48.20%. Insider Transactions at The Goldman Sachs Group In related news, insider Kathryn H. Ruemmler sold 7,277 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $379.81, for a total value of $2,763,877.37. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 6,501 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,469,144.81. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, CAO Sheara J. Fredman sold 4,300 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $380.15, for a total transaction of $1,634,645.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 11,463 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,357,659.45. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, insider Kathryn H. Ruemmler sold 7,277 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $379.81, for a total value of $2,763,877.37. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 6,501 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,469,144.81. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 14,734 shares of company stock valued at $5,529,824 in the last quarter. 0.54% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. The Goldman Sachs Group Profile (Free Report) The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in resale agreements. See Also Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Horizonte Minerals Plc (LON:HZM Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as low as GBX 2.50 ($0.03) and last traded at GBX 3.10 ($0.04), with a volume of 7492405 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at GBX 3.50 ($0.04). Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, Canaccord Genuity Group reaffirmed an under review rating on shares of Horizonte Minerals in a research note on Tuesday. Get Horizonte Minerals alerts: Check Out Our Latest Report on HZM Horizonte Minerals Price Performance Horizonte Minerals Company Profile The stock has a market capitalization of 8.36 million, a P/E ratio of -100.00 and a beta of 1.57. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 10.33 and a 200-day simple moving average of GBX 47.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 93.63, a quick ratio of 4.35 and a current ratio of 6.62. (Get Free Report) Horizonte Minerals Plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration and development of mineral projects in Brazil. The company primarily explores for nickel deposits, as well as cobalt deposits. It holds 100% interest in the Araguaia ferronickel; and the Vermelho Nickel-Cobalt project in the eastern part of the Carajas mining district. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Horizonte Minerals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Horizonte Minerals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mariner LLC lessened its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report) by 0.5% in the 3rd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 312,079 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 1,457 shares during the period. Mariner LLCs holdings in Illinois Tool Works were worth $71,875,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Northwest Capital Management Inc purchased a new stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works during the 2nd quarter worth about $28,000. Briaud Financial Planning Inc bought a new position in shares of Illinois Tool Works in the third quarter worth $25,000. Quarry LP grew its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 52.7% in the first quarter. Quarry LP now owns 142 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 49 shares in the last quarter. Union Savings Bank bought a new position in shares of Illinois Tool Works in the second quarter worth $39,000. Finally, Steward Financial Group LLC bought a new position in Illinois Tool Works during the second quarter valued at about $39,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.56% of the companys stock. Get Illinois Tool Works alerts: Illinois Tool Works Price Performance Shares of NYSE ITW traded up $1.59 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $257.19. 233,349 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,079,247. The company has a market cap of $76.85 billion, a PE ratio of 26.24, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.36 and a beta of 1.15. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a twelve month low of $217.06 and a twelve month high of $267.12. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $257.58 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $244.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.10, a current ratio of 1.33 and a quick ratio of 0.97. Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement Illinois Tool Works ( NYSE:ITW Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The industrial products company reported $2.42 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.41 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $3.98 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.01 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 96.60% and a net margin of 18.36%. The firms revenue was up .3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.34 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.12 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 11th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 29th will be paid a $1.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, March 27th. This represents a $5.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.18%. Illinois Tool Workss payout ratio is presently 57.49%. Insider Activity at Illinois Tool Works In other Illinois Tool Works news, EVP Sharon Szafranski sold 801 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $256.42, for a total transaction of $205,392.42. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 5,870 shares in the company, valued at $1,505,185.40. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Sharon Szafranski sold 801 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $256.42, for a total transaction of $205,392.42. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 5,870 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,505,185.40. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Chairman Ernest Scott Santi sold 50,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $254.44, for a total transaction of $12,722,000.00. Following the sale, the chairman now owns 221,015 shares of the companys stock, valued at $56,235,056.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 152,304 shares of company stock worth $38,860,831. Insiders own 0.78% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on ITW shares. Citigroup increased their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $244.00 to $256.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, December 11th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $238.00 to $239.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Bank of America lowered Illinois Tool Works from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from $260.00 to $235.00 in a report on Wednesday, January 10th. Barclays raised their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $215.00 to $224.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company downgraded Illinois Tool Works from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and cut their target price for the stock from $277.00 to $240.00 in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Illinois Tool Works presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $239.33. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on ITW Illinois Tool Works Company Profile (Free Report) Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment in the United states and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ITW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Illinois Tool Works Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Illinois Tool Works and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rice Partnership LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI India ETF (BATS:INDA Free Report) by 0.4% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 492,523 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,128 shares during the period. iShares MSCI India ETF comprises 6.2% of Rice Partnership LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 3rd largest holding. Rice Partnership LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI India ETF were worth $21,779,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. LPL Financial LLC raised its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 74.8% in the third quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 575,646 shares of the companys stock worth $25,455,000 after acquiring an additional 246,246 shares during the period. Rathbones Group PLC bought a new position in iShares MSCI India ETF in the third quarter worth approximately $680,000. Qtron Investments LLC raised its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 0.8% in the third quarter. Qtron Investments LLC now owns 352,044 shares of the companys stock worth $15,567,000 after acquiring an additional 2,912 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 16.9% in the third quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 416,533 shares of the companys stock worth $18,419,000 after acquiring an additional 60,177 shares during the period. Finally, Lcnb Corp raised its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 41.7% in the third quarter. Lcnb Corp now owns 50,255 shares of the companys stock worth $2,222,000 after acquiring an additional 14,799 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI India ETF alerts: iShares MSCI India ETF Stock Up 0.7 % INDA traded up $0.36 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $51.56. The companys stock had a trading volume of 5,872,616 shares. iShares MSCI India ETF has a one year low of $30.57 and a one year high of $38.21. The firm has a market cap of $6.95 billion, a PE ratio of 23.86 and a beta of 0.68. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $49.43 and its 200-day simple moving average is $46.28. iShares MSCI India ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI India ETF (INDA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI India index, a market-cap-weighted index of the top 85% of firms in the Indian securities market. INDA was launched on Feb 2, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding INDA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI India ETF (BATS:INDA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI India ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI India ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. John Bean Technologies (NYSE:JBT Get Free Report) issued its earnings results on Tuesday. The industrial products company reported $1.40 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.36 by $0.04, Briefing.com reports. John Bean Technologies had a net margin of 28.66% and a return on equity of 14.32%. The business had revenue of $444.60 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $445.81 million. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.49 EPS. The firms revenue was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. John Bean Technologies updated its FY24 guidance to $5.05-$5.45 EPS. John Bean Technologies Price Performance Shares of NYSE JBT traded down $2.69 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $100.08. The company had a trading volume of 122,876 shares, compared to its average volume of 198,565. John Bean Technologies has a 52 week low of $89.96 and a 52 week high of $125.88. The stock has a market cap of $3.19 billion, a PE ratio of 5.88, a PEG ratio of 4.26 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.48 and a current ratio of 1.87. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $99.49 and its 200-day moving average price is $103.56. Get John Bean Technologies alerts: John Bean Technologies Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, January 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 18th were paid a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.40%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, December 15th. John Bean Technologiess dividend payout ratio is presently 2.29%. Hedge Funds Weigh In On John Bean Technologies Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of JBT. US Bancorp DE raised its stake in shares of John Bean Technologies by 3.6% in the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 5,821 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $689,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of John Bean Technologies by 4.6% during the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 6,476 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $761,000 after buying an additional 282 shares during the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its stake in shares of John Bean Technologies by 6.7% during the first quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 2,992 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $354,000 after buying an additional 188 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. raised its stake in shares of John Bean Technologies by 11.5% during the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 30,180 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,575,000 after buying an additional 3,120 shares during the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of John Bean Technologies by 55.8% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 16,840 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,995,000 after buying an additional 6,030 shares during the last quarter. 98.19% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Robert W. Baird reissued an outperform rating and set a $121.00 price target on shares of John Bean Technologies in a report on Monday, January 22nd. TheStreet downgraded shares of John Bean Technologies from a b- rating to a c rating in a report on Tuesday, October 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $121.00. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on John Bean Technologies About John Bean Technologies (Get Free Report) John Bean Technologies Corporation provides technology solutions to food and beverage industry and equipment and services to air transportation industries in North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through two segments: FoodTech and AeroTech. It offers value-added processing that includes chilling, mixing/grinding, injecting, blending, marinating, tumbling, flattening, foaming, portioning, coating, cooking, frying, freezing, weighing, and inspection. See Also Receive News & Ratings for John Bean Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for John Bean Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. French President Emmanuel Macron meets with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, in Paris, France, Feb. 20, 2024. (French presidential palace/Handout via Xinhua) PARIS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Tuesday that China and France should strengthen strategic coordination and deepen cooperation to contribute to global peace and stability. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. Wang conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings to Macron, saying that the two heads of state have established a strong mutual trust and a sincere friendship, and guided the development of bilateral strategic cooperation, exerting a profound and positive influence on the world. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France, serving as an important point from which to build on past achievements and forge ahead, Wang said, adding that both sides should take the anniversary as an opportunity to sum up the experience of the extraordinary journey the two countries have been through, carry forward the useful experience and successful practices, and jointly plan the next 60 years of China-France relations. China is ready to work with France to uphold the original aspiration, stay focused, deepen cooperation and open up the future, Wang said. Pragmatic cooperation between China and France brings significant benefits to both peoples, Wang said, noting that China will stick to high-quality development and higher-standard opening-up, and will continue to open its market to all countries in the world, including France. Wang also expressed the hope that the French side would create a fair and just business environment and provide positive and stable long-term expectations for Chinese enterprises in France. Macron asked Wang to convey sincere greetings to Xi and wished the Chinese people all the best in the Year of the Dragon. Recalling with pleasure his successful visit to China last year, Macron said he looks forward to working with China to make preparations for high-level exchanges this year, and hopes that the two sides will take the opportunity of the France-China Strategic Dialogue to implement the important consensus reached by him and Xi, and further build lasting and close France-China relations. France has always adhered to the one-China policy and this position is clear, he said. In the face of global challenges, France adheres to strategic independence and is willing to strengthen strategic coordination with China to jointly safeguard peace and stability, he said. Wang said the current international situation is turbulent, hotspot issues are complex and thorny, the world economic recovery is slow and challenges come one after another. As independent major countries, permanent members of the UN Security Council and important forces in a multipolar world, China and France should strengthen strategic coordination and deepen strategic cooperation to contribute to global peace and stability, he said. China appreciates France's adherence to independence and autonomy, and hopes that France will continue to boost the sound and steady development of China-Europe relations, enhance mutual trust, promote convergence of interests, and jointly act as a stabilizing force in today's world. French President Emmanuel Macron meets with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, in Paris, France, Feb. 20, 2024. (French presidential palace/Handout via Xinhua) Shares of Logan Energy Corp. (CVE:LGN Get Free Report) have earned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the eight analysts that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation and seven have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month target price among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is C$1.58. Several analysts have weighed in on the company. Scotiabank lowered their price objective on Logan Energy from C$1.90 to C$1.50 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Raymond James decreased their target price on Logan Energy from C$1.50 to C$1.20 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, January 19th. Finally, National Bankshares upped their target price on Logan Energy from C$1.35 to C$1.50 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, January 10th. Get Logan Energy alerts: View Our Latest Research Report on Logan Energy Logan Energy Price Performance Shares of CVE LGN opened at C$0.86 on Wednesday. Logan Energy has a 12 month low of C$0.73 and a 12 month high of C$1.24. The business has a 50-day moving average of C$0.83 and a 200-day moving average of C$0.94. Logan Energy (CVE:LGN Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 22nd. The company reported C($0.02) earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of C$17.49 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of C$16.50 million. About Logan Energy (Get Free Report Logan Energy Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and production of oil and natural gas properties. The company holds interest in the Simonette and Pouce Coupe properties in northwest Alberta; and the Flatrock property in British Columbia. Logan Energy Corp. was incorporated in 2023 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Logan Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Logan Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LPL Financial LLC boosted its holdings in shares of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:JHMM Free Report) by 1.6% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 3,815,271 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 59,063 shares during the period. LPL Financial LLC owned about 5.93% of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF worth $180,539,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of JHMM. Raymond James & Associates boosted its position in shares of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 49.4% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 70,710 shares of the companys stock worth $3,716,000 after purchasing an additional 23,372 shares in the last quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. boosted its position in shares of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 13.7% in the 1st quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. now owns 28,855 shares of the companys stock worth $1,516,000 after purchasing an additional 3,466 shares in the last quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC boosted its position in shares of John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 22.6% in the 1st quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC now owns 57,399 shares of the companys stock worth $2,720,000 after purchasing an additional 10,577 shares in the last quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC raised its holdings in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF by 94.0% in the 1st quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC now owns 10,982 shares of the companys stock worth $577,000 after acquiring an additional 5,321 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF in the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,544,000. Get John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF alerts: John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF Stock Down 0.1 % JHMM traded down $0.05 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $53.23. 26,777 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 288,267. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.93 and a beta of 1.08. John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF has a 52-week low of $44.07 and a 52-week high of $53.98. The companys fifty day moving average price is $52.42 and its 200-day moving average price is $49.56. John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF Company Profile The John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF (JHMM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the John Hancock Dimensional Mid Cap index. The fund tracks an index of US firms ranked 200-950 by size, weighted by multiple factors relative to their sector peers. JHMM was launched on Sep 28, 2015 and is managed by John Hancock. See Also Receive News & Ratings for John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Manulife Financial (TSE:MFC Get Free Report) (NYSE:MFC) was downgraded by TD Securities from an action list buy rating to a buy rating in a research note issued on Wednesday, BayStreet.CA reports. They currently have a C$37.00 price objective on the financial services providers stock, up from their prior price objective of C$35.00. TD Securities price target points to a potential upside of 13.99% from the stocks previous close. Several other brokerages also recently commented on MFC. Evercore increased their target price on shares of Manulife Financial from C$30.00 to C$36.00 in a report on Tuesday. Cormark upgraded shares of Manulife Financial from a market perform rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from C$33.00 to C$36.00 in a report on Friday, February 16th. National Bankshares increased their target price on shares of Manulife Financial from C$29.00 to C$33.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Veritas Investment Research restated a reduce rating on shares of Manulife Financial in a report on Friday, February 16th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upgraded shares of Manulife Financial from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and raised their price objective for the stock from C$31.00 to C$35.00 in a report on Thursday, February 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Manulife Financial presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of C$35.80. Get Manulife Financial alerts: Get Our Latest Research Report on Manulife Financial Manulife Financial Stock Down 1.6 % Manulife Financial Company Profile MFC traded down C$0.53 during trading on Wednesday, hitting C$32.46. 1,858,963 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,599,673. The company has a quick ratio of 2.58, a current ratio of 22.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 56.70. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$29.52 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$26.86. Manulife Financial has a fifty-two week low of C$23.69 and a fifty-two week high of C$33.59. The stock has a market cap of C$58.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.63, a PEG ratio of 11.85 and a beta of 1.10. (Get Free Report) Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in Asia, Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; and Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment offers investment advice and solutions to retirement, retail, and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels, including agents and brokers affiliated with the company, independent securities brokerage firms and financial advisors pension plan consultants, and banks. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Manulife Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Manulife Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mirabella Financial Services LLP purchased a new position in shares of Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 1,481 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $202,000. Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in J. Clear Street Markets LLC raised its holdings in Jacobs Solutions by 93.8% in the first 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. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 47.7% in the second quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 254 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 82 shares during the last quarter. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 210.5% in the second quarter. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 295 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Park Place Capital Corp increased its stake in Jacobs Solutions by 473.9% in the third quarter. Park Place Capital Corp now owns 264 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 218 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC purchased a new position in Jacobs Solutions in the third quarter valued at approximately $42,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.77% of the companys stock. Get Jacobs Solutions alerts: Jacobs Solutions Trading Down 1.5 % NYSE:J opened at $145.32 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $18.26 billion, a PE ratio of 25.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a quick ratio of 1.37, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42. Jacobs Solutions Inc. has a 52-week low of $109.00 and a 52-week high of $149.17. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $134.28 and a 200-day simple moving average of $133.44. Jacobs Solutions Increases Dividend Jacobs Solutions ( NYSE:J Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.02 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.56 by $0.46. The firm had revenue of $4.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.02 billion. Jacobs Solutions had a return on equity of 14.57% and a net margin of 4.20%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.67 EPS. On average, equities research analysts expect that Jacobs Solutions Inc. will post 8.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 22nd. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of $0.29 per share. This represents a $1.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.80%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. This is a boost from Jacobs Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. Jacobs Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 18.57%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Raymond James lowered shares of Jacobs Solutions from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. KeyCorp initiated coverage on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. They set a sector weight rating on the stock. 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, February 7th. Benchmark restated a buy rating and set a $160.00 target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, November 22nd. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus restated a buy rating and set a $150.00 target price on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $152.11. Get Our Latest Research Report on J Insider Buying and Selling In other Jacobs Solutions news, insider Steven J. Demetriou sold 6,666 shares of Jacobs Solutions stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $127.75, for a total value of $851,581.50. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 581,138 shares in the company, valued at approximately $74,240,379.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other Jacobs Solutions news, insider Steven J. Demetriou sold 6,666 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $127.75, for a total value of $851,581.50. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 581,138 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $74,240,379.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Shelette M. Gustafson sold 1,852 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $148.00, for a total value of $274,096.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 28,791 shares in the company, valued at $4,261,068. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 19,018 shares of company stock worth $2,475,578. 1.00% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Jacobs Solutions Company Profile (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. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding J? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report). 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. OPENLANE (NYSE:KAR Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday. The specialty retailer reported $0.16 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.13 by $0.03, Briefing.com reports. OPENLANE had a negative net margin of 8.07% and a positive return on equity of 8.97%. The business had revenue of $391.30 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $392.56 million. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.33 EPS. The companys revenue was up 5.0% on a year-over-year basis. OPENLANE updated its FY24 guidance to $0.77-$0.87 EPS and its FY 2024 guidance to 0.770-0.870 EPS. OPENLANE Price Performance Shares of NYSE KAR traded down $0.10 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $14.05. The company had a trading volume of 479,123 shares, compared to its average volume of 595,707. The company has a quick ratio of 1.17, a current ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. OPENLANE has a twelve month low of $12.19 and a twelve month high of $16.49. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $14.46 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $14.70. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.52 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -8.47, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.53 and a beta of 1.43. Get OPENLANE alerts: Institutional Trading of OPENLANE Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Citigroup Inc. raised its position in shares of OPENLANE by 6.7% in the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 107,473 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $1,940,000 after buying an additional 6,789 shares during the last quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. acquired a new position in shares of OPENLANE in the first quarter valued at approximately $206,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of OPENLANE by 55.1% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 64,805 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $1,170,000 after buying an additional 23,021 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its position in shares of OPENLANE by 14.1% in the first quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 104,446 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $1,885,000 after buying an additional 12,878 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can raised its position in shares of OPENLANE by 1.9% in the first quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 107,209 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $1,987,000 after buying an additional 2,031 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 99.76% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages recently commented on KAR. Stephens reiterated an equal weight rating and set a $13.00 price target on shares of OPENLANE in a research note on Tuesday, December 5th. TheStreet lowered shares of OPENLANE from a c- rating to a d+ rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 1st. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $18.75. Read Our Latest Research Report on KAR OPENLANE Company Profile (Get Free Report) OPENLANE, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a digital marketplace for used vehicles, which connects sellers and buyers in North America, Europe, the Philippines, and Uruguay. The company operates through two segments, Marketplace and Finance. The Marketplace segment offers digital marketplace services for buying and selling used vehicles. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for OPENLANE Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for OPENLANE and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc. grew its position in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 12.6% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,759 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 309 shares during the quarter. Eli Lilly and Company accounts for about 0.8% of Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 29th largest holding. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $1,482,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in LLY. Rooted Wealth Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company during the second quarter worth $220,000. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 15,205,501 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,111,568,000 after acquiring an additional 338,077 shares in the last quarter. Liontrust Investment Partners LLP acquired a new position in Eli Lilly and Company in the 3rd quarter worth about $8,326,000. Armstrong Fleming & Moore Inc acquired a new position in Eli Lilly and Company in the 2nd quarter worth about $357,000. Finally, Redhawk Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 0.9% in the third quarter. Redhawk Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 6,986 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,752,000 after purchasing an additional 65 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 81.38% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In LLY has been the subject of several recent research reports. TheStreet downgraded Eli Lilly and Company from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Monday, December 4th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. restated an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Wednesday, November 8th. Truist Financial lifted their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $650.00 to $850.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $700.00 to $825.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, DZ Bank lowered Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $820.00 target price for the company. in a research report on Wednesday. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $663.33. Insider Buying and Selling at Eli Lilly and Company In other news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 78,573 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $648.07, for a total transaction of $50,920,804.11. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 99,333,810 shares in the company, valued at approximately $64,375,262,246.70. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders have sold a total of 195,055 shares of company stock worth $125,254,657 over the last three months. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Eli Lilly and Company Stock Down 2.2 % Eli Lilly and Company stock traded down $17.00 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $738.66. 2,524,400 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,440,441. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52-week low of $309.20 and a 52-week high of $794.47. The company has a quick ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.59. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $643.93 and its 200-day moving average price is $596.99. The stock has a market capitalization of $701.22 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 130.31, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.73 and a beta of 0.32. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.30 by $0.19. The company had revenue of $9.35 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.95 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 50.78% and a net margin of 15.36%. Eli Lilly and Companys quarterly revenue was up 28.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.09 earnings per share. On average, research analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 12.5 EPS for the current fiscal year. Eli Lilly and Company Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 8th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 15th will be given a $1.30 dividend. This is a positive change from Eli Lilly and Companys previous quarterly dividend of $1.13. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 14th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.70%. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is currently 89.66%. Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. It offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; and Jardiance, Trajenta, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. RTX Co. (NYSE:RTX Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus recommendation of Hold from the eighteen brokerages that are covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, thirteen have issued a hold recommendation and three have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $91.71. A number of research analysts recently weighed in on RTX shares. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut shares of RTX from a hold rating to a sell rating and dropped their price objective for the company from $79.00 to $68.00 in a report on Friday, October 27th. Redburn Atlantic downgraded shares of RTX from an overweight rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 15th. TheStreet upgraded RTX from a c rating to a b- rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. UBS Group boosted their target price on RTX from $93.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada upped their price target on RTX from $82.00 to $88.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Monday, January 22nd. Get RTX alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on RTX Insider Activity at RTX Institutional Investors Weigh In On RTX In related news, COO Christopher T. Calio sold 367 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.63, for a total value of $33,995.21. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 56,707 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,252,769.41. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink . In other news, insider Shane G. Eddy sold 35,456 shares of RTX stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.19, for a total value of $3,233,232.64. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 6,741 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $614,711.79. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, COO Christopher T. Calio sold 367 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were 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 of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,252,769.41. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold 37,680 shares of company stock valued at $3,438,681 in the last ninety days. Insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock. A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Bear Mountain Capital Inc. acquired a new stake in RTX during the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. Strengthening Families & Communities LLC acquired a new stake in shares of RTX during the third quarter worth $28,000. Quarry LP purchased a new position in RTX in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Planned Solutions Inc. acquired a new position in RTX in the 4th quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. raised its position in RTX by 352.0% during the 3rd quarter. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. now owns 443 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after buying an additional 345 shares during the last quarter. 79.06% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. RTX Trading Down 0.0 % RTX opened at $90.98 on Wednesday. RTX has a 52 week low of $68.56 and a 52 week high of $104.91. 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 fifty day simple moving average of $87.11 and a 200-day simple moving average of $82.25. The firm has a market cap of $120.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 40.62, a P/E/G ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 0.89. RTX (NYSE:RTX Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The company reported $1.29 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.04. The company 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%. RTXs revenue for the quarter was up 10.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.27 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that RTX will post 5.39 earnings per share for the current year. RTX Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 21st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of $0.59 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.59%. RTXs dividend payout ratio is presently 105.36%. About RTX (Get 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. Recommended Stories 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. Stelac Advisory Services LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF (NYSEARCA:EWC Free Report) by 7.7% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 33,203 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 2,371 shares during the period. Stelac Advisory Services LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Canada ETF were worth $1,111,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EWC. NBC Securities Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at $25,000. Indiana Trust & Investment Management CO bought a new stake in iShares MSCI Canada ETF during the third quarter worth about $27,000. Captrust Financial Advisors lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF by 104.1% during the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 892 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 455 shares in the last quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF by 1,351.4% during the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 1,074 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Headlands Technologies LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI Canada ETF in the third quarter valued at approximately $73,000. Get iShares MSCI Canada ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Canada ETF Trading Down 0.4 % Shares of EWC stock traded down $0.14 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $36.40. 1,121,565 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,699,721. The business has a 50 day moving average of $36.29 and a two-hundred day moving average of $34.74. iShares MSCI Canada ETF has a 52 week low of $31.41 and a 52 week high of $36.99. The company has a market capitalization of $3.25 billion, a PE ratio of 14.06 and a beta of 1.02. About iShares MSCI Canada ETF iShares MSCI Canada ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI Canada Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Canadian market, as measured by the MSCI Canada Index (the Index). Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Canada ETF (NYSEARCA:EWC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Canada ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Canada ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Stelac Advisory Services LLC decreased its position in iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ Free Report) by 2.2% during the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 57,039 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 1,284 shares during the period. iShares MSCI Japan ETF accounts for about 1.6% of Stelac Advisory Services LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 18th largest holding. Stelac Advisory Services LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Japan ETF were worth $3,434,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EWJ. Mariner LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 27.9% during the 3rd quarter. Mariner LLC now owns 10,801 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $651,000 after acquiring an additional 2,356 shares during the period. LPL Financial LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 60.7% in the third quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 878,869 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $52,987,000 after acquiring an additional 331,927 shares during the period. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 0.8% in the third quarter. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC now owns 180,705 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $10,895,000 after acquiring an additional 1,443 shares during the period. Hsbc Holdings PLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 17.3% in the third quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 420,431 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $25,372,000 after acquiring an additional 61,909 shares during the period. Finally, Rathbones Group PLC lifted its stake in iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 20.6% in the third quarter. Rathbones Group PLC now owns 176,523 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $10,643,000 after buying an additional 30,170 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI Japan ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Japan ETF Stock Down 0.4 % EWJ traded down $0.25 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $67.68. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,199,029 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,466,016. iShares MSCI Japan ETF has a twelve month low of $54.56 and a twelve month high of $68.08. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $65.25 and its 200-day moving average price is $62.46. The firm has a market capitalization of $14.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.76 and a beta of 0.68. iShares MSCI Japan ETF Profile iShares MSCI Japan ETF (the fund), formerly Ishares Msci Japan Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Japanese market, as measured by the MSCI Japan Index (the Index). See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWJ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Japan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Japan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rathbones Group PLC raised its holdings in The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK Free Report) by 577.4% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 109,633 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 93,448 shares during the period. Rathbones Group PLCs holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $4,676,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Nemes Rush Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. grew its stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 97.1% in the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 609 shares of the banks stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 300 shares during the period. Sunbelt Securities Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Addison Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 603.2% in the 3rd quarter. Addison Advisors LLC now owns 879 shares of the banks stock valued at $37,000 after buying an additional 754 shares during the period. Finally, First Command Advisory Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $38,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.29% of the companys stock. Get Bank of New York Mellon alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Bank of New York Mellon In other news, VP Hanneke Smits sold 15,425 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.16, for a total value of $850,843.00. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 119,656 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,600,224.96. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, VP Catherine Keating sold 4,498 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $54.81, for a total value of $246,535.38. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 123,490 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,768,486.90. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Hanneke Smits sold 15,425 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.16, for a total transaction of $850,843.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 119,656 shares in the company, valued at $6,600,224.96. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.10% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Bank of New York Mellon from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and increased their price target for the company from $52.00 to $62.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. UBS Group increased their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $54.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 9th. Citigroup increased their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $60.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 14th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Bank of New York Mellon from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and set a $54.50 price objective for the company in a research report on Monday, December 18th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $54.75. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Bank of New York Mellon Bank of New York Mellon Stock Performance Shares of BK stock opened at $54.89 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a 52 week low of $39.65 and a 52 week high of $56.42. The stock has a market capitalization of $42.21 billion, a PE ratio of 13.82, a P/E/G ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 1.12. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $53.72 and a two-hundred day moving average of $47.82. Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The bank reported $1.28 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.12 by $0.16. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 10.01% and a return on equity of 11.62%. The company had revenue of $4.31 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.30 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.30 EPS. The firms revenue was up 10.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts predict that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 5.23 EPS for the current fiscal year. Bank of New York Mellon Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, January 22nd were given a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, January 19th. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.06%. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio is presently 42.32%. Bank of New York Mellon Company Profile (Free Report) The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Bank of New York Mellon Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of New York Mellon and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Contending with freezing conditions, railway workers in NE China's Heilongjiang Province stand tall in the face of icy cold winds to ensure smooth operations on the Nenlin Railway. Learn all about their battle with frost and snow to keep the trains running like clockwork. Craftsman Zou Yute (3rd L, front) shows techniques of making bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival at a school in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Jan. 5, 2017. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) This combo photo shows craftsman Zou Yute making bamboo dragons for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Dec. 21, 2010 (Top) and Jan. 16, 2024 (Below), respectively. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform firecracker dragon dance during Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform firecracker dragon dance during Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Craftsman Zou Yute makes a bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Jan. 16, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Craftsman Zou Yute decorates a bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) This combo photo shows craftsman Zou Yute making bamboo dragons for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on April 5, 2006 (Top) and Jan. 16, 2024 (Below), respectively. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Craftsman Zou Yute decorates bamboo dragons for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform firecracker dragon dance during Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform firecracker dragon dance during Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) This combo photo shows craftsman Zou Yute making a bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform dragon dance during a competition in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Craftsman Zou Yute makes a bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Jan. 16, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform dragon dance during a competition in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) People perform firecracker dragon dance during Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 20, 2024. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Craftsman Zou Yute decorates a bamboo dragon for Firecracker Dragon Festival in Binyang County in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Feb. 16, 2016. Firecracker Dragon Festival that can be dated back to more than 10 centuries ago is a traditional carnival celebrating Spring Festival in Binyang, when locals perform the firecracker dragon dance with a bamboo dragon. Unlike most dragon dances performed elsewhere, the audiences usually throw lit firecrackers toward the bamboo dragon during the dance with the wish to drive away evil spirits and pray for peace and prosperity for the new year. The event was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list in 2008. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) Pintard and Minnis camps must learn to coexist under the FNM umbrella That release could not be found. BEIJING, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Various parties, including China, expressed strong disappointment by and dissatisfaction with the United States once again vetoing a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday. "The U.S. veto pushes the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one," spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on U.S. voting against the Algeria-drafted resolution. According to reports, this is the third time that the United States has vetoed a draft resolution related to the Gaza conflict. Mao said the protracted Palestinian-Israeli conflict has resulted in a devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza and severely impacted regional peace and stability. The UNSC must take immediate actions to push for a ceasefire, Mao said. The draft resolution put forward by Algeria on behalf of the Arab states demands an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the immediate release of all hostages, guaranteed access for humanitarian supplies, and the rejection of forced displacement, Mao said. Urgently required by the situation and based on the minimum requirements of humanity, the draft resolution was supported by the overwhelming majority of Security Council members, and China has voted in favor of it, Mao added. Mao said that China stands ready to work with all parties in the international community to push the Security Council to take more responsible and meaningful actions and work relentlessly for a ceasefire in Gaza at an early date, ease the humanitarian situation, promote the implementation of the two-state solution and achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. People check the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) GAZA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. It noted that a number of victims still remain under the rubble amid heavy bombardment and a lack of civil defense and ambulance crews. Israel has been launching a large-scale military offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate a Hamas rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage. A man checks the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) People check the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) A man checks the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) People check the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) Children pass by the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) People check the rubble of a building destroyed in an Israeli air strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Feb. 21, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 118 Palestinians and wounded 163 others in the coastal enclave, it added. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua) Writer/Director Seth Sonnier of Vidor (L) with director of photography Travis Myers of Orange (C) and Kenneth Dupuis (R), gaffer on the set of "5:01." The local film will make its festival premiere Saturday at the Jefferson Theater in Beaumont. Photo provided by production. The Boomtown Film and Music Festival Friday and Saturday, February 23-24, in Beaumont may be on the west banks of the Neches River, but it has a strong showing from Orange County. The festival's director Penny LeLeux, a local film maker, is from Orangefield. Special guest Dolores Cantu is a West Orange High graduate and will talk about her 50-year career in Hollywood as an actress and agent. She will also appear at a showing of "Saturday Night Fever" to talk about her role in the film. That break-out production for John Travolta helped Cantu gain the reputation as the only woman to beat up the star in a movie. She will speak at a forum on Saturday. John Frederick of Mauriceville is in one of the featured films showing this year, plus a short movie by a Lamar University student was shot in Vidor. Actors like Frederick, who is retired from the U.S. Navy, and has appeared in a Tom Hanks movie, are getting more roles in independent productions. Orange County is producing several filmmakers, but does not have a certification from the Texas Film Commission to make it film-friendly and attract more movie making. Port Arthur, Beaumont, and Jasper are now on the statewide film commission list to promote movie-making. This week, "The Example," a 24-minute 2016 film set during the 1943 Beaumont race riot, will be show at Rice University. Part of the movie was shot in the Old Orange Historic District and one of the co-stars is from Orange. The film continues to have showings across the country. The Boomtown Festival is drawing people in the independent film and music businesses to Southeast Texas to display their talents and give advice. The short film "11:34" was written, directed, and edited by Lamar University student Ashley Ramirez. It was shot this summer in the home of Jason and Carrie LeLeux, and in a classroom at Lamar University. It's a thriller about a young teenager who once again is plagued with a reoccurring nightmare. Sometimes, it's more than just a bad dream. Penny LeLeux was the producer, and Trini Gonzalez, an L-CM graduate, is one of the main characters in the film. Ava Bergeron, the niece of Adam Conrad, who is a former drama teacher and works at the Lutcher Theater, plays the main character's little sister. Trini Gonzalez will be in a couple of other films screening at the festival. He's in the background of "5:01," the brainchild of Seth Sonnier of Vidor. The film was shot in Fred and Beaumont. Jade Hollier of Orange, a long time member of Orange Community Players, has a part in the opening scenes of the film. Other Orange County people on the crew include Penny LeLeux, Dakota Parker and Orange cinematographer Travis Myers. Myers was also the director of photography on "Hoot," which was shot in Vidor and stars Little Cypress native, Reese Ravencraft. "Hoot" was Ravencraft's debut film in 2019. It has been "in the can" and is now being shown. Ava Bergeron (L) and Trini Gonzales (R) on set of the Lamar summer student film project shot in Vidor titled "11:34". Gonzales is an Orange native and LCM graduate currently living in Beaumont. Bergeron is the niece of Bridge City's Adam Conrad. The film will make its festival debut Saturday during the Boomtown Film and Music Festival in Beaumont. Photo still from film. In addition, Ravencraft is in "Bad Guacamole" which was shot around Houston. It will screen Saturday in the Texas Proud Block. Friday at the Texas Energy Museum, "The First Step" will screen. John Frederick of Mauriceville plays the pastor in the movie with a theme of religious faith. The film was shot in Jefferson County. Not only is Frederick an actor, he is also a producer on the film and worked to get the film made, including bringing on Myers as the director of photography. Studio 220 Film is currently in the fundraising phase of their next project, "Chasing Faith" which will star Ravencraft. Frederick will also be part of that production in both cast and crew. Music acts are Josh Palermo, Ariel Bush, Sick Ride and Running on Credit, Friday night at the Logon Cafe and Pub. The Golden Triangle Big Band will close out the festival with a concert at the Jefferson Saturday night. Tickets for the complete festival or individual events are available online through boomtownfestival.com. Individual tickets to see "Saturday Night Fever" are available at the Jefferson Theatre website. This is the narrow hallway where Billy Wayne Dowden and Clifford Blansett declared they were there to break Charles Dowden out of jail. It is also where Danny Gray fought with the suspects before his death. After nearly 50 years, justice was finally served for the family of Orange Police Officer Danny Gray who was killed in the line of duty. Billy Wayne Dowden died in prison on February 1. He has remained in prison after pleading guilty of capital murder charges for the June 28th, 1974 death of Captain Danny Gray, 31, of the Orange Police Department. "No more parole parole board hearings and my mother and sister no longer have to relive the trauma brought by this man," said Stephen Gray, Danny Gray's son. Captain Danny Gray, was a 10 year veteran of OPD and worked the night shift. It was well known among his peers he wanted to catch a suspect during a robbery. That day would arrive. But, it would also be his last day before being fatally shot. The unraveling of the events began around 1 a.m. when he was dispatched to the Sak-N-Pak drive-in grocery at 10th Street and Green Avenue. Charles Dowden was walking out of the store still wearing his mask and trying to stuff the gun into his back pocket when he saw officers outside. He tried to reach back for the pistol. But, he quickly realized the efforts were futile, and surrendered. He was arrested and taken to the Orange jail. Billy Wayne Dowden, who had been at the store with his brother, decided to break him out of jail. He drove to his brother's house where he picked up his sister-in-law, Darlene, and told her of his plan. Dowden and Darlene then drove to Clifford Blansett's house where they picked up a loaded rifle and pistol. From there the trio drove to the police station/jail arriving around 4 a.m., according to the information from documents from the Texas State of Appeals. Danny Gray, dispatcher Ronnie Denton and Officer Bryan Windham were doing paperwork when Billy Wayne Dowden boldly entered the police station and directly went to the dispatcher's office which is located a short distance inside the door. Dowden slammed open the door to the dispatcher's office and pointed an automatic pistol at the officers. He declared he had come to get Charles. Gray, who was standing near the dispatcher's window, hit Dowden in the face, which knocked him into the hallway. By this time, Blansett had entered the building and struck Gray over the head with a shot gun causing the gun to break. Dowden attempted to use Gray as a shield to once again enter the small dispatch room, according to Denton. "I pulled the pistol out after I said that. I was standing in the doorway. One of the officers grabbed me. I tried to hit him, but he was holding my arms. I just started shooting then. I shot through the little window. I don't know how many times I shot, it must have been 6 or 7 times. I just kept pulling the trigger," Billy Wayne Dowden would later say, according to documents. The officers were stunned at the offset, but quickly regained composure. It was Danny Gray who had lunged at Dowden while grabbing the gun while placing his other arm around Dowden to force him into the hallway. The door, which operated on a spring closing device closed automatically behind them, according to documents. An exchange of gunfire followed. Windham and Denton, not knowing whether the assailants had left or whether they had taken a breather, radioed for help. It was not until Windham crawled back to join Denton in the back area of the dispatch room that he knew the man lying in the doorway was Captain Gray, and the suspects, out of bullets, fled into the darkness. Gray was rushed to Orange Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Dowden initially sought help from a friend to help with his bleeding ear, but the friend panicked and called police. Dowden left to find solace elsewhere. The break would be short lived as officers moved swiftly. By afternoon officers throughout the area and Louisiana converged on a small frame house located in northern Orange County. Nearly 70 officers surrounded the house with a helicopter flying overhead with horses and bloodhounds nearby. Chief Deputy Charles Morvent, Jr. telephoned the house and informed, Billy Wayne Dowden, he had a warrant for his arrest, and there was a "small army" surrounding the house. Dowden surrendered while Blansett was found hiding in a houseboat in West Orange and taken into custody too. Judge James D. Stringer, the justice of the peace for Precinct 1, set the bond at $500,000. Sharon Bearden, the district attorney, was responsible for the case against the men. Billy Wayne Dowden and Clifford Blansett were indicted on capital murder charges. The prosecution was steadfast in their dedication to the task at hand of a successful prosecution of the suspects. Bearden utilized a recently passed statue. This was the first time the statue was used in the State of Texas. "We just had to do what we could within the law," Bearden said. Charles Dowden, who was upstairs in the jail during the breakout attempt, received a life sentence on charges of murder and aggravated robbery. The jury wanted to give him the death penalty but it was abolished in 1973. Prior to the death of Danny Gray, Charles Dowden was convicted of murder and received 25 years in prison. He shot and killed a man in a bar, according to Stephen Gray. "This man's rap sheet is beyond comprehension," Stephen Gray said. "He is extremely violent and has committed the worst crimes imaginable." Nevertheless, he was released from prison in 2015 and lives in Orange. He is currently on state parole. The Gray family feels their rights as victims were not considered or met under the law. They did not know he was being considered for release. They were notified after the parole board had already decided on his release. Blansett also went to trial which lasted about three weeks. He refused to plead guilty to murder, but pleaded guilty to other charges, such as felon in possession of a firearm. However, when the guilty verdict was returned he received a life sentence. He later died in prison. Following a change of venue to Harris County, Billy Wayne Dowden pleaded guilty to the indictment and waived trial by jury pursuant to a plea bargain agreement. He was sentenced to life in prison, according to documents. Stephen Gray never met Charles Dowden but did meet his brother, Billy Wayne Dowden, and Clifford Blansett years later while they were behind bars. Both of them continued to blame others for their actions and never took responsibility even after 25 years of imprisonment, according to Stephen Gray. Following the death of Danny Gray, his family was left to pick up the pieces. After nine years of marriage, Gail, had two children, Stephen, 4 years old and 7-year-old Stephanie. One thing Billy Wayne and Charles Dowden and Blansett will never be able to take away is the love the Gray family shared. Their treasured memories will always belong to them. Stephen Gray remembers a game he and his father played called "hut hut." It was in the hallway while the Dallas Cowboys game played in the background. "I would try to run past him and he would attempt to tackle me," Stephen Gray said. The joyous laughter that once filled the hallway is gone as the family moved to other cities to make new memories. But, they continued to honor and cherish the man they knew and loved throughout their lives and share to future generations. On the day he died, Danny Gray received a letter he had been waiting for. It was an acceptance letter to go to Quantico, Va. for the FBI academy. Danny Gray was a police officer by night, but by day attended Lamar University for a degree in Criminal Justice. Gray had plans for his life ahead such as becoming a FBI agent. His plans for the future also included attending law school, becoming an attorney and eventually a prosecutor as well. The reason the library at OPD is named after Danny Gray is because of his encouraging officers to get their college degrees and educate themselves, according to Stephen Gray. Danny Gray's profession also influenced his children. Both chose a service profession. Stephen Gray wanted to honor his father and continue the legacy of "fighting crime" and chose law enforcement. Stephanie Gray chose nursing. Stephen Gray married and has three children. His oldest daughter is a special education teacher. His son recently graduated from college and is considering a career in law enforcement. His youngest daughter recently accepted a scholarship to play volleyball in college. Stephanie Gray-Haley is married and has five boys. Three of her sons are married while another son is busy with his career while another is finishing up in college. Stephanie is busy working as a nurse, but she males sure she is always available for her four grandchildren. Following the death of Danny, Gail later married Randy Powell. He was a wonderful step-father to the Gray children. He encouraged the family to talk about their father and share their feelings. Tragedy struck again when Gail lost her husband to cancer in November 2023. Forever strong in her faith, Gail is active in her church and is still serving people. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends. Stephen Gray's dedication to seeing justice served remained as he made his way to Austin for the parole board hearings to keep Billy Wayne Dowden in prison. He thought it was important for the parole board to see his face and not just a letter from the son or family member. The family and friends of Danny Gray faithfully wrote letters to the parole board. Each time Dowden came up for parole, the entire family wrote to protest his release. The former dispatch room sits vacant. It is small and holds boxes of papers. "I never look forward to writing these letters. It is such a painful experience to put down on paper how losing my dad effects me in my life everyday. The loss I feel is overwhelming even after all of these years," Stephanie Gray-Haley wrote to the parole board. Her son, Hendon Gray Haley, also wrote to the parole board. He stated he was honored to have the his middle name Gray in like that of his grandfather. "He was a great man and will be remembered as such," he wrote. For the Gray family there is a sense of relief with no more parole board hearings and letter writing to relive the trauma. "We can finally lay this matter to rest," Stephen Gray said. From here, the Gray family will continue living their lives and honoring Danny Gray and his legacy. "Even though it has been almost 50 years, we continue to miss him everyday," Stephen Gray said. The first day of early voting for party primary elections drew 938 people to the polls, with 877 votes in the Republican primary and 61 in the Democratic primary. The only local races for Orange County are in the Republican Party with contested races for sheriff, Precinct 2 Constable, Precinct 4 Constable, and county party chair. Also drawing interest from around the country is the Republican race for Texas House of Representatives District 21. Incumbent Dade Phelan, who has served two terms as speaker of the Texas House, is being challenged by David Covey of Mauriceville, and Alicia Davis of Jasper County. The Republican Party ended the first day of early voting with a total of 948, with 71 of those being mail-in absentee votes. The Raymond Gould Community Center in Vidor was the busiest with 349 votes, followed by the Orange Public Library with 205, the County Airport with 193, and the Mauriceville Community Center with 130. Eligible county voters with proper ID may cast a ballot at any of the locations. Locally, Sheriff Jimmy Lane Mooney is running for a second term and being challenged by Ron Dischler, Bobby Smith, and Mike Sanchez. Precinct 2 Constable Jeremiah Gunter is facing David Bailey and Harold Hass. Precinct 4 Constable is running against Joey Jacobs, and OC Republican Chair Leo LaBauve III is being challenged by Cheryl Warren. Early voting continue for two weeks with hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, through Friday, February 23; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 24; 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, February 25; and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, February 26, through Friday, March 1. Bridge City mayor draws opponent The West Orange-Cove school district will have a $72 million bond issue on the May 4 election for city councils, school boards, and special districts. However, the only contested races will be for Bridge City mayor and for directors of the Orange County Drainage District. The cities of Orange, West Orange, Pinehurst, and Vidor are able to cancel council elections because of no contested races. In addition, the Bridge City and WO-C school boards, along with the port district, have no contested races. The LC-M district offices are closed for winter break and no one was available to answer whether that district has a contested race. Orangefield's school board election is in November. The May elections are not to be confused with the March 4 party primary races for county, state, and federal government positions. Early voting started this week for those races. In Bridge City, Mayor David Rutledge is facing challenger Carl Harbert, a former council member. The three open positions on the Bridge City City Council drew no opposition. Gina Mannino is running alone for Place 2 after Mike Reed did not run. Incumbents Patty Collins in Place 4 and Sherby Dixon in Place 6 filed with no opposition. For the Orange County Drainage District, incumbent James Scales for Precinct 3 is facing Seth Mize, and Precinct 2 incumbent Larry Ancelot is being challenged by Richard Capaldi. The WO-C school board called for the bond election earlier this month. The main project of the proposal is to construct a new North Early Learning Center, a school on Cordrey Avenue that is 60 years old. In addition, the district wants to improve security, buy new school buses, and do other improvements on campuses. According to information from the school district, no increase in property taxes will be needed because of the district's current tax base and valuations. However, state election regulations require the district to advertise a property tax increase. State law also requires that homeowners age 65 and older not have property tax increases for school bonds. The district's two trustee positions, though, will not be on the ballot because incumbents Roderick Robertson and LaTricia Stroud are running unopposed. The Orange County Navigation and Port District has incumbents Walter Mullins III in Precinct 2 and John Montagne in Precinct 3 drawing no opposition. The city of Orange will have a new Single-Member District 1 councilor with Matt Chandler. He drew no opposition as the incumbent, David Bailey is currently running for Orange County Precinct 2 Constable and did not file to run for reelection. Also, Mayor Larry Spears Jr. did not draw an opponent. At West Orange, incumbent city council members Mike Shugart Sr., Lanie Brown, and Jay Odom are unopposed. Pinehurst has Mayor Sarah McClendon, along with incumbents Cynthia Adams, Greg Willis, and Joey Vance running unopposed. The Vidor City Council has incumbents Nicole McGowan in Ward 2 and Michael Thomas in Ward 3 are unopposed, along with newcomer Mikayla Bourgque for Ward 5 after the incumbent for that spot, Gary Herrera, did not run. The Bridge City ISD board has incumbnets Paul Zoch and Judy Cole running unopposed. No thoughts of what may be waiting in my future. It was all about the now. And that was part and parcel with whatever message the group and I had to impart on the audience at that instance. Risking your hide to evoke that emotion became part of the program." Li Jiwang, Lhasanan Railway Station catenary maintenance team's foreman, inspects catenary components in the Caigangshan tunnel in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Zhoupeng) LHASA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- On a frigid night, the lights of a roaring catenary rail vehicle from the Lhasa-Nyingchi Railway continued to flash, echoing the vibration of the rails of the first electrified railway in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. The railway catenary is a special power supply line installed along the track to supply electrical energy to trains. It is the main structure of the railway electrification engineering, known as the "air corridor" of electric trains by catenary maintenance workers. On the flip side to the increase in power supply time, there are also loose connections and gaps that may appear at the joints of the catenary components such as droppers and isolation switches. "We carry out targeted maintenance to maintain the best performance of the catenary and prolong its service life," said Li Jiwang, Lhasanan Railway Station catenary maintenance team's foreman. After the opening of the Lhasa-Nyingchi Railway in 2021, Li moved to the station and took over responsibility for the catenary maintenance. "The geographical environment on the plateau is special, so the catenary equipment power supply material and technology are more advanced," said Li. Workers need to maintain the catenary on a lifting platform that is over five meters high. "I once made an operation on a platform that was over the rushing Lhasa River with a drop of dozens of meters. It was a thrilling experience," Li recalled. Now, the number of workers in the station's maintenance team has grown from 12 to 30, including the youngest member Tashi Dundrup born in the 2000s. Despite more team members joining, the workload remains heavy. Lhasa experienced a heavy snowfall a few days ago, and many sections of the catenary were covered with thick ice, requiring the workers to clear them. "Some iced catenary sections could be over 50 meters long, making de-icing a physically demanding task," said Tashi Dundrup. On the operation platform, workers independently adjusted the height and angle of the platform and used different lengths of horn sounds to signal the maintenance vehicle driver to proceed forward, backward, or stop. A long and then a short horn sound came from above, and 55-year-old Lyu Tianpeng, with over 20 years experience as a driver, moved the vehicle forward. Two adjacent droppers are spaced less than eight meters apart, so the work platform can only advance a few meters at a time to allow workers to inspect each dropper, said Lyu. It took them over an hour to inspect 144 droppers and dozens of catenary joints in the 1.3-km-long Caigangshan tunnel. Drari, a 27-year-old on-site safety officer, is responsible for recording the maintenance work with a yellow notebook in his hand, reinforced with tape. "From 2021 to now, I have used more than 10 notebooks," said Drari. The catenary continuously provides power to electric trains, just like the "blood vessels" of the electrified railway. "We are like doctors for the electrified railway performing a delicate 'surgery' on its 'blood vessels' every night to ensure the safety of the railway," said Li. The meticulous nighttime work ensures that the Lhasa-Nyingchi Railway can operate safely and efficiently especially during the Spring Festival travel rush. The 2024 Spring Festival travel rush in China began on Jan. 26 and lasts for 40 days. Official figures show that about 1.7 million tourist trips are expected in Xizang during the period this year. A catenary rail vehicle from the Lhasa-Nyingchi Railway lifts its operation platform in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 24, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Zhoupeng) Silence of the guns, for the momentMute after six days | It may be a little premature to say that the guns being fired from Dongyang and Lailophai in Churachandpur district towards Sugnu have fallen silent permanently but it is significant to note that there were no reports of gun fire on February 20, that is after 6 consecutive days of Sugnu being pummelled since February 14. The silence stretches on to the next day, for till the time this commentary is being penned down on February 21, there is no report of any fresh offensive being launched at Sugnu. One the day the guns fell silent, The Sangai Express carried the news of search operations being carried out at Sugnu, Dongyang and Lailophai and it is no co-incidence that the silence came along with the massive search operations being conducted at the said three places. A co- incidence it is but the massive search operations came just one day after The Sangai Express had questioned why security forces were not being mobilised to neutralise the guns that were fired towards Sugnu from Dongyang and Lailophai for six days on the row and along with the search operations came the silence of the guns. This is significant and in a way the sense of being vindicated is overwhelming. As reported, a combined team of State police, Central Reserved Police Force (CRPF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) launched massive search operations at Dongyang and Lailophai while a combined team of 136 Bn of the Border Security Force and Kakching police did the same at Sugnu. This development should give solid credence to the poser raised in this column on why the security personnel were not activated to neutralise the gun toting elements who have been raining bullets at Sugnu from the said two places at Churachandpur. This is where the observation of Sugnu Assembly Constituency MLA K Ranjit that the series of violence could have been contained if only the security personnel had been pressed into service to neutralise the militants who launched the attacks on Sugnu, is insightful. Fortunately no one died during the six days of continuous assault on Sugnu, save for the injuries inflicted on two BSF personnel, including a Head Constable and two village volunteers. This is apart from the heavy damages caused to houses and human settlements at Sugnu. Maybe it is in taking a leaf out of the Sugnu experience that report was received of State force personnel being deployed at some sensitive and vulnerable areas which have seen repeated attacks from Kuki militants. As reported, well trained State force personnel have been deployed at the foothills of Andro Assembly Constituency adjoining Kangpokpi district while teams of 6th Indian Reserve Batallion and 6th Manipur Rifles have been stationed at Nongpok Keithelmanbi, Laikhong, Itham, Tumukhong and Maphou Dam. Steps which are expected from the State Government and one hopes the Centre is also apprised of the need to goad the Central security forces, especially the Assam Rifles, to be on the alert and nullify any attempt to launch offensives from the hills. It is time to make sense of the deployment of over 60,000 Central security personnel, personnel who were rushed here after Manipur went up in flames in the evening of May 3, 2023. Already over 9 months since violence broke out and the involvement of SoO cadres in the series of attacks launched on the Meitei settlements at the foothills, at Moreh and at other sensitive places should be more than clear and it is for this very reason why demands have been raised to abrogate the SoO pact. It is already the 22nd of February and the time frame of the SoO pact is set to expire by the end of this month and it is for this very reason why Manipur is watching with trepiditations on what steps New Delhi will take up. Or should Delhi expect Manipur to be satisfied with just the decision to do away with the Free Movement Regime and the announcement that the Indo-Myanmar border would be fenced ? Or is the coming Lok Sabha elections going to be used as the perfect alibi to keep matters at bay and avoid taking any critical decisions ? Imphal should gear up to present a water tight case before Delhi as and when the time comes. Today Sunny skies. Becoming windy late. High 68F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph, becoming NW and increasing to 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tonight A clear sky. Low around 35F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Tomorrow Mostly sunny skies. High 64F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) SINGAPORE, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. Two Chinese air-service companies, the Tibet Airlines and Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group, signed orders for 40 units of C919 and 16 units of ARJ21 aircraft at the airshow. The COMAC noted that they will carry out promotion activities at the airshow to enhance networks with clients and partners. Aerobatic teams from India, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, and an Airbus A350-1000 also contributed performances at the airshow. Singapore Air Force sent its F-15 fighter jet and Apache attack helicopter to perform aerobatics at the event. The airshow, attended by over 1,000 participating companies, is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. The Singapore Airshow has set up a country pavilion for 40 Chinese aerospace enterprises for the first time, according to the organizer. The Aerospace Times Feipeng Company from east China's Jiangsu Province brings their cargo delivery unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to the Singapore Airshow. "It is the first time for us to attend an airshow abroad. We hope to create more connections with overseas clients and provide them with new cargo delivery solutions featuring low cost and high efficiency," said Liu Zefeng, general manager of the UAV company. The airshow will last till Sunday. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday condemned the BJP for its divisive politics after some saffron party leaders in Sandeshkhali called a Sikh police officer a Khalistani. IPS officer Jaspreet Singh, who along with his team was deputed at Dhamakhali and had put up barricades to stop Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari from visiting Sandeshkhali, was allegedly called a Khalistani by a group of BJP supporters. Reacting to the incident, Miss Banerjee on her X handle wrote: Today, the BJPs divisive politics has shamelessly overstepped constitutional boundaries. As per @ BJP4India every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS @ SISTERS, revered for their SACRIFICES and UNWAVERING DETERMINATION to our nation. We stand firm in protecting Bengals social harmony and will take stern lawful measure to prevent any attempt to disrupt it. Miss Banerjee two days back while commenting on the incidents of Sandeshkhali had remarked that it was RSS that was trying to disturb the area. TMC national spokesperson Mr Saket Gokhale wrote on X: In defiance of High Court directives, inflammatory speeches & divisive remarks continue unchecked, resulting in a halt to all legal actions against @ SuvenduWB. He brazenly brands others as Pakistani or Khalistani without repercussion, all under the PROTECTION of the Judiciar ys decisions. UNFORTUNATE. Advertisement Mrs Chandrima Bhattacharya, state finance minister, said: It is BJPs culture to divide among people on the basis of their religion and caste. She said the ADG (Law and Order) has said stern action would be taken against those who had tried to instigate people in Sandeshkhali. She said the president of National Commission for Women (NCW) Mrs REkha Sharma had visited Sandeslhali with a purpose of maligning the Bengal government. She did not visit Manipur. She is asking Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to resign, we demand the Prime Ministers resignation as he did not go to Manipur where women were abused, she said. The Division Bench of Chief justice T S Sivagnanam and Hiranmoy Bhattacharya of Calcutta High Court in an observation said that the court was mulling to issue summons to Sheikh Shahjahan in the court for surrender, since the police was still unable to arrest him even after 19 days. The comment betrayed the fact that either the police have failed to give him security or the accused had fled somewhere outside the state. The Division Bench of the Chief Justice also observed that with the prime accused still out in the open, what would be the use of promulgating Sec 144, which would only cause harassment to the people in general and nothing else. Advertisement The Chief Justice observed that the court was thinking of issuing summons to Sheikh Shahjhan for appearance in court. On that day, the state police, CBI, ED too would be asked to be present in court. The Chief Justice wondered how the police have still failed to arrest the prime accused even after 19 days. The Division Bench also cancelled the state governments plea of staying the Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikaris visit to Sandeshkhali today. The Bidhannagar Mela kicked off today at Mela Prangan in Salt Lake. The Mela will be open for the public from tomorrow till 12 March. The opening of the fair was advanced by a day as the state would be busy celebrating International Mother Tongue Day (Bhasha Diwas). Dignitaries on stage, which included, MP Saugata Roy, women and child development minister Shashi Panja, for minister Sujit Bose, food minister Rathin Ghosh, Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation mayor Krishna Chakraborty, jointly lit the ceremonial lamp to declare the fair open. Advertisement Minister Firhad Hakim, who was supposed to open the fair, was absent due to health reasons. Mayor Krishna Chakraborty said the people look forward to the fair and were a bit worried as the International Kolkata Book Fair preceded the Bidhannagar Mela this time. Apart from getting calls enquiring about the fair, even chief minister Mamata Banerjee was eager to hold the fair. The women & child development and social welfare minister, Shashi Panja said, Different self-help groups (SHG) from the state and outside the state participate in the fair and it means exchange of economy. The MSME sector, which the CM is eager to promote, also gets a fillip through the fairs. Our government also gives out loans to people who want to do business to encourage entrepreneurship. People outside the state may ridicule us for the frequency of fairs in the state but the fact is that these fairs serve as an informal economy. This helps the artisans get self sufficiency. Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee members of Burnpur agitated outside the ancestral house of local BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul for alleged Khalistani comments on an IPS officer of West Bengal today evening. The members of Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee of Burnpur organised a rally and agitated outside the residence of Asansol South MLA Agnimitra Paul in Ashok Nagar in Asansol this evening. The members also chanted slogans and later in the evening blocked the Grand Trunk (GT) Road near Asansol South Police Station in protest. Advertisement The controversial comment by a BJP member has sparked a row and the members of sikh community have opposed and announced major agitation on this issue in Asansol and Durgapur. The national highways will be blocked by the members of the Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee in Durgapur tomorrow. Surendar Singh Antu, president of Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee of Burnpur said that they are shocked to hear the comments from the BJP member. Turban is considered as sacred thing by the Sikh community and the Sikh community has a glorious history in serving the nation in Indian Army and such comments are really shocking and unaccepted. We condemn the Khalistani comment on our fellow IPS officer, who was disbursing his professional duties at that time and seek apology from Agnimitra Paul. Many of our grandparents were freedom fighters, he added. Agnimitra Paul was born and brought up at New Town in Burnpur and her father Dr Ashok Roy has retired from the Burnpur Hospital of IISCO Steel Plant. The sitting MLA of Asansol South now stays at Ashok Nagar in Asansol town. At the time of her statement state committee member and BJP candidate for the Asansol North Assembly seat, Krishnendu Mukherjee, who also hails from Asansol was along with him during the agitation. Agnimitra Paul has also unsuccessfully contested the Asansol Lok Sabha by polls in 2022 and lost to Shatrughan Sinha of TMC by a margin of over three lakh votes. In fact, speculation is rife that she will be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from the Durgapur Burdwan seat replacing another sitting sikh MP and son of the soil of Asansol, Surendar Singh Ahluwalia. A police picket has been posted outside her house by Asansol Durgapur Police Commissionerate. At the time of agitation Agnimitra Paul was not present at her residence in Asansol. She gets CISF armed jawans from the central home ministry as bodyguards. DOHA, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Qatari government said on Tuesday that Hamas has confirmed the receipt of a shipment of medicines and the commencement of their delivery to beneficiaries among the Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip. Hamas, the Gaza-ruling Palestinian faction, has informed the Qatari side that it received the medicines and started to deliver them to the hostages in Gaza under an agreement mediated by Qatar, in cooperation with France between Hamas and Israel last month, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The agreement includes "the entry of medicines and a shipment of humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip, especially in the most affected and damaged areas, in exchange for delivering the medicines needed by hostages in the sector," the ministry's official spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari was quoted by the statement as saying. As part of its commitment to ending the conflict in Gaza, Qatar has affirmed its ongoing mediation efforts, in collaboration with regional and international partners, according to Al-Ansari. Delhi Chief Minister intensified his attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the wake of the Supreme Court overturning of the result of recent Chandigarh mayoral election saying the entire episode has exposed the saffron party. Recounting in the Delhi Assembly on Wednesday how the apex court, through its ruling on the matter, sent out a strong message in favour of democracy on Tuesday, the chief minister said it seemed as though the God was present inside the chief justice. It seemed as though the God was speaking through the CJI, he said hailing the top court for declaring AAP-Congress alliance candidate Kuldeep Kumar as the new mayor of Chandigarh. Quoting the Bhagavad Gita, the AAP leader said God decided to intervene in the matter and put an end to the what he called as adharm (injustice) being done in the entire matter. Advertisement He stressed the need for all to come together to preserve democracy and the autonomy of the constitutional institutions. The chief minister alleged that black money to the tune of crores of rupees was being used to poach legislators to topple elected governments in the country. The AAP convener criticised the Centres handling of the farmers issue in the wake of the ongoing farmers protest. He asked why the government was not allowing the farmers to come to Delhi and voice their concerns. If the farmers want to come to Delhi, let them come to Delhi, what is wrong in that? They just want to raise their voice as everyone has a right to voice his concerns as per the constitution, Kejriwal added. Vicky Kaushal secured the Best Actor (Critics) award for his portrayal in the movie Sam Bahadur at the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024. The actor conveyed his elation through a special video message, played at the prestigious event as he was unable to attend. Taking to Instagram, OTT platform Zee5 shared a video on their stories featuring Vicky expressing, Thank you so much to the jury of Dadasaheb Phalke Award for honoring me with the Best Actor Critics for my work in Sam Bahadur. Sorry, I am unable to attend the event today due to some reasons requiring me to travel outside Mumbai, but thank you; this means a lot to me. Its a huge honor, and I would like to express my gratitude to my director Meghna Gulzar, my producer Ronnie Screwala, and the entire team of Sam Bahadur, including all the technicians, the writers, and my co-actors whose support enabled me to perform my best. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the family of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw for their assistance, love, and support. This one is for my lovely audience who watched this film in theaters, showered it with love, and supported us immensely. Thank you so much. And last but not least, this one is dedicated to the Indian army. Advertisement Sam Bahadur narrates the life story of Indias first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw, whose military career spanned over four decades and five wars. He was the pioneer Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. Fondly known as Sam Bahadur, Manekshaw led the Indian Army to triumph in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, culminating in the birth of Bangladesh. Throughout his illustrious military journey, Manekshaw played pivotal roles in the Indo-Pak War of 1947 and the liberation of Hyderabad in 1948. Sam Bahadur marks Vickys second collaboration with Meghna Gulzar following Raazi. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the film also features Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh in lead roles. (ANI) The 71st Miss World Beauty Pageant took place recently with 115 participants competing in the opening event in Delhi. The event took place on Tuesday. India is holding the Miss World contest after a 28-year hiatus. India last hosted the Miss World pageant in 1996. Advertisement During the introduction round, Sini Shetty, representing India, stood out by wearing a traditional Banarasi saree. She had earlier won the Femina Miss India title in 2022. The 22-year-old from Mumbai, Maharashtra, celebrated Indias rich heritage by wearing a Banarasi saree valued at Rs 2.2 lakh. She also shared lovely photos on Instagram, expressing her delight in representing India on a worldwide scale in traditional dress. She further emphasized the sarees significance in expressing Indias cultural depth and traditions, as well as its role as a symbol of Indian identity. Shetty donned a Jayanti Reddy saree, which she paired with a delicate curl hairstyle and various expensive jewelry items, mangtikas, and bangles. Raksha Singh styled Shetty for this particular event during the opening event. The highly anticipated 71st Miss World Global Finals will be held on March 9 at Mumbais famous Jio World Convention Centre, which will be shown live on Sony LIV. Nimisha Sajayan is captivating audiences once again with her latest film Lantrani, co-starring Jitendra Kumar. The movie has been receiving praise from viewers, adding another success to Nimishas growing list of accomplishments in the film industry. Her journey in acting began with the critically acclaimed film Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, under the direction of Dileesh Pothan. From there, she went on to showcase her talent in notable films like Eeda, directed by B. Ajithk and Rajeev Ravi. Nimishas stellar performances didnt go unnoticed, earning her the 49th Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress in 2019 for her roles in Oru Kuprasidha Payyan and Chola. Chola also gained recognition internationally, premiering at various film festivals. Advertisement In 2021, she delivered memorable performances in The Great Indian Kitchen, receiving acclaim for her portrayal. The same year, she took on lead roles in Nayattu and Malik, further establishing her versatility as an actress. Continuing her streak of compelling performances, Nimisha appeared in several films in 2022, including Oru Thekkan Thallu Case, Innale Vare, and Heaven. With upcoming projects like Thuramukham and Chera, her fans eagerly anticipate her future work. Not limited to Malayalam and Tamil cinema, Nimisha Sajayan expanded her horizons by venturing into Marathi and English language films. Her Tamil debut in A.L Vijays Mission: Chapter 1 Achcham Enbathu Illaiyae marked the beginning of her journey in the Tamil film industry, followed by her first Tamil release, Chithha, in 2023. Nimisha Sajayans talent has garnered widespread recognition, earning her accolades such as the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress, two Filmfare Awards South, and three SIIMA Awards. With her dedication and skill, she continues to leave a lasting impression on audiences across languages and borders. India has lost the true legend of the airwaves Ameen Sayani the iconic radio broadcaster who revolutionised the art of radio presentation. Sayani, the iconic radio presenter of the popular show Binaca Geetmala, died on Tuesday of a heart attack. He was 91. His voice, synonymous with the golden era of radio, and the timeless Geetmala, will forever echo in the hearts of crores of people. For 42 years since 1952, Sayani hosted Binaca Geetmala, a programme of hits over the airwaves of Radio Ceylon, and he addressed the listeners in his unique style as Behno aur bhaiyo. Advertisement His style of addressing the crowd with Behno aur Bhaiyo (sisters and brothers) as against the traditional Bhaiyo aur Behno is still treated as an announcement with a melodious touch. He had produced, compered and spoken for over 54,000 radio programmes and 19,000 spots and jingles since 1951. The news of his demise was confirmed by his son Rajil Sayani, who stated that Ameen Sayani breathed his last at a hospital last night. The cause of his demise has been attributed to heart failure. Condolences are pouring in on social media as the news of the legendary presenter broke out. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness and extended his condolences. He wrote that Ameen Sayani Jis golden voice on the airwaves had a charm and warmth that endeared him to people across generations. Through his work, he played an important role in revolutionising Indian broadcasting and nurtured a very special bond with his listeners. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family, admirers and all radio lovers. May his soul rest in peace, he wrote in his post on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, too, condoled the demise of Sayani. Pained to know that Shri Ameen Sayani Ji the voice of the radio is no more. Sayani Ji leaves a void behind that will be difficult to fill. His golden legacy makes him immortal. My sincerest condolences to his near and dear ones and millions of admirers. Om Shanti., he wrote in his post on X. Born in 1932, Sayani assisted his mother, Kulsum Sayani, in editing, publishing and printing a fortnightly journal for neo-literates, under the instructions of Mahatma Gandhi. It was this grounding in simple communication that helped him in his long career in commercial broadcasting and culminated in his being awarded the Hindi Ratna Puraskaar by the prestigious Hindi Bhavan of New Delhi in 2007. He was introduced to All India Radio, Bombay, by his brother Hamid Sayani. Ameen participated in English programmes there for ten years. Some of the better-known radio shows produced and compered by Ameen Sayani include Cibaca (formerly Binaca) Geetmala, S Kumars Ka Filmi Mukaddama, Filmi Mulaqaat, Saridon Ke Sathi, Bournvita Quiz Contest, Shalimar Superlac Zodi and Sangeet Key Sitaron KI Mehfil. Sayani has pioneered the export of Indian radio shows and commercials since 1976. He has exported to the US, Canada, England, UAE, Swaziland, Mauritius, South Africa, Fiji and New Zealand. In addition, he had compered several shows directly for radio stations abroad. He had compered more than 2,000 stage functions of all sorts in India, including musical variety shows, beauty contests, fashion shows, award functions, film silver jubilee functions, an International Film Festival closing session (in Delhi), concerts, seminars, workshops, and trade presentations. He had also compered stage shows abroad. Samajwadi Party boss and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday dismissed any dispute with the Congress and reiterated there will be alliance with the grand old party in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Speaking to reporters, Akhilesh Yadav said that everything will be out and clear soon and maintained there is no dispute (with the Congress). Yes, there will be an alliance. There is no conflict. Everything will be out and clear soon All is well that ends well, Yadav said when reporters asked him about skipping Rahul Gandhis yatra. Advertisement Earlier this month, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had invited Akhilesh Yadav to join the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and share stage with Rahul Gandhi during a public rally at National Inter College in Chandaulis Saiyadraja on February 16. However, Yadav skipped the Yatra when it entered Uttar Pradesh earlier this month. His party said that he will take part in the yatra only after a seat sharing agreement is reached. According to sources, Samajwadi Party had earlier offered Congress 11 seats in Uttar Pradesh. However, the Congress rejected the offer and sought more seats. After further negotiations, the Samajwadi Party offered 17 seats to the Congress but the grand old party is said to have not agreed as yet. Reports claimed that both parties have failed reach consensus on three seats Ballia, Moradabad, and Bijnor. It is being said that Congress wanted these three seats but Samajwadi Party is not ready to give any of that and the seat-sharing talks reached a dead end. The Congress party, as per the sources, have asked for 24 seats that it won in 2009 general elections. As farmers resumed their Delhi Chalo protest march, the government on Wednesday said that it was ready to discuss the MSP and other issues during the fifth round of talks. Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda invited farmer leaders for further discussions on all the issues, including MSP, crop diversification, and stubble issue. After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR in the fifth round. I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace, Munda said in a post on X. Advertisement Meanwhile, police fired tear gas shells at Shambhu border in Haryana as farmers tried to cross the barricades installed there to stop them from marching towards Delhi. The protesting farmers also brought poclains, JCB machines and other hydrolic equipment to remove the cement barricading and nails that the government has placed near the border to stop them from marching towards the national capital. The police threatened to file criminal cases against the owners of JCB and other equipment and asked them not to provide their services to the farmers. Owners and operators of Poclains, JCBs: Pls do not provide the services of our equipment to the protestors. Pl withdraw these machines from the protest site. These machines may be used to cause harm to security forces, its a non bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable, the police said in a social media post. Earlier in the day, the General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Committee Sarwan Singh Pandher urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government to discuss their issues or allow farmers to proceed to Delhi to hold a protest peacefully. We are saying that it is also the Prime Ministers responsibility, we too have voted to make him the PM of the country. This country belongs to everyone, the PM belongs to everyone. He should come forward and handle the situation and fulfil our demands, Pandher said while addressing a joint press conference with other farmer leaders at the Shambhu border. The opposition BJP has accused the Congress government of delaying the construction work of the Bulk Drug Park and the Medical Device Park in Himachal Pradesh. The Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday witnessed a ruckus during Question Hour on the issue of the construction of the Bulk Drug Park at Una and the Medical Device Park at Nalagarh. Charging the government with apathy, BJP member Bikram Thakur and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur said that the construction of the Bulk Drug Park and the Medical Device Park was being delayed. Advertisement The opposition members sought clarification from the government and stated that there were doubts which needed to be cleared. The subsequent uproar in the House over the issue culminated in a walkout amid sloganeering by the opposition. Earlier, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while intervening in reply to the original question of MLA Bikram Singh Thakur and the supplementary question of Jai Ram Thakur, said that the government will construct the proposed Medical Device Park and Bulk Drug Park in the state on its own terms and that the work will be done in the interests of Himachal. The state government is committed to safeguarding the interests of Himachal Pradesh and will not compromise on them in any manner, Sukhu said. He said that the previous BJP government had leased 1,400 acres of land in Haroli for the Bulk Drug Park at a nominal rate of Re 1. Similarly, 400 acres of land was leased for the Medical Device Park at the same rate, he said. An agreement had also been made to provide free water and electricity at the rate of Rs 3 per unit. However, the government itself is buying electricity at Rs 7 per unit these days, he said. The central government had said that it would give Rs 1,000 crore for the Bulk Drug Park. However, the DPR pointed out that Rs 923 crore has to be contributed by the Himachal government, he added. Unlike the previous government, he will not allow the interests of Himachal to be sold at all, he said, adding that he has already met NITI Aayog and other concerned officers in this regard. He said that Himachal is taking this project forward on its own terms and added that the state government despite having spent Rs 100 crore on the Medical Device Park, has only received Rs 30 crore from the Centre. The state government intends to build both projects, he stated, citing the example of the Baddi industrial area, which took 15 years to materialise. As the farmers protest entered its ninth day, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda said on Wednesday that the Centre was ready to discuss all the issues including the demand for the minimum support price (MSP). Inviting the protesting farmers for a fifth round of talks, the Union agriculture minister urged them to maintain peace and find a solution through dialogue. Mundas fresh invitation came amid a huge build-up of farmers at the borders of Haryana getting ready to march to the national capital. Advertisement In a post on X, Munda said, After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR in the fifth round. I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace, he added. Talking to a news agency, Munda made an appeal to the farmers to maintain peace. I appeal to them to maintain peace and we should find a solution through dialogue, he said. He, however, informed that the farmers have not yet responded to his invite. No information has come yet (from farmers side). We appeal that we should move forward for talks and present our stand. The government also wants to move forward and find a solution, the Union minister said. Munda is part of a team of Union ministers holding talks with the farmer leaders, including Piyush Goyal and Nityanand Rai.The four rounds of talks held between the ministers and the farmers so far remained inconclusive. The two sides met on February 8, 12, 15 and 18. Earlier on Wednesday, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee Sarwan Singh Pandher reiterated their demand for a legal guarantee of MSP while assuring a peaceful approach to resolving the issues. The farmer leader said only the leaders will be marching towards the national capital as the Dilli Chalo programmed resumed on Wednesday after the fourth round of talks ended in a stalemate. We have decided that no farmer or youth will march forward. Leaders will march ahead. We will not attack our Jawans. We will go peacefully. All this can be ended if they (central govt) make a law on MSP, Sarwan Singh Pandher said. Addressing the protesting farmers, he made an appeal to them to move forward peacefully. Earlier, on February 19, the farmer leaders rejected the Centres proposal of buying pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by the government agencies for five years, saying it was not in farmers interest. The announcement was made by farmer leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal after a meeting. After a discussion, the both forums have come to the conclusion that there is nothing in the governments proposal. Our government imports palm oil worth Rs 1.75 crore ignoring its implications on the health of the general public. If this money is given to the farmers of the country, they can grow oil seed crops. We reject the governments proposal as it is not in the interest of the farmers, he said. If the government is not giving legal guarantee to MSP, it simply means the farmers of the country will continue to be looted. This is not acceptable to us, he added. A panel of three Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda and Nityanand Rai gave the proposal to the farmers during the fourth round of talks in Chandigarh on Sunday. Meanwhile, Munda told the media, We want to do something good. Several opinions can be made; we always welcome good opinions But to find out how that opinion could be fruitful, the only way is dialogue. Through dialogue, a solution will surely come out. In a first major breakthrough for the Oppositions INDIA alliance, the Samajwadi Party and Congress have finalised a seat-sharing agreement in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The seat-sharing pact was announced in a joint press conference by the leaders of the two parties. As per the agreement, the Congress will contest 17 seats whereas the Samajwadi Party and other INDIA alliance partners will contest the remaining 63 seats. I am delighted to tell you that it has been decided that in Uttar Pradesh the INC will contest on 17 seats and the remaining 63 seats will have candidates of INDIA Alliance from SP and other parties, Uttar Pradesh Congress incharge Avinash Pande told reporters on Wednesday. Advertisement The development comes hours after Akhilesh Yadav said that the alliance with the Congress is on and a decision will be announced soon. Yes, there will be an alliance. There is no conflict. Everything will be out and clear soon All is well that ends well, Yadav said when reporters asked him about skipping Rahul Gandhis yatra. Earlier, the talks reached a dead end after both parties failed to agree on three seats Ballia, Moradabad, and Bijnor. However, after intervention from Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the deal was finalised. The Congress party will field its candidates from Prayagraj, Maharajganj, Amroha, Jhansi, Bulandshahar, Ghaziabad, Mathura, Sitapur, Barabanki, Deoria, Kanpur Nagar, Fatehpur Sikri, Basgaon, and Saharanpur. Raebareli and Amethi has also been given to the Congress. The grand old party will also field its candidate against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi. LUSAKA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- China's assistance in advancing water supply projects will bridge the deficit of water supply to Lusaka, the Zambian capital, and potentially tackle cholera outbreaks in the city, a Zambian official said Tuesday. Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui last month said that phase two of the Kafue Bulk Water Supply project will be implemented to improve water supplies to the capital. Chishoma Musonda, regional community development officer of the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company, expressed excitement about the announcement, saying investing in water supply infrastructure is important due to the city's growing population and subsequent pressure on the available water supply. "The announcement on the Kafue Bulk Water Supply phase two is important to us, and we are hopeful that the project will bridge the gap," Musonda told Xinhua. He explained that the completion of phase one of the project in 2022 had already resulted in improved water supply, increasing from 17 hours to almost 20 hours of supply per day, with an additional 50 million liters of water per day. The current demand for water supply in the city, however, stands at 495 million liters per day, while the current supply is only 320 million liters, leaving a deficit of 175 million liters of water. Musonda attributed the increased demand for water to the rising population due to urbanization and increased industrial activities in the city. The construction of phase two of the project would allow the company to reach even areas that were not currently supplied with water, improving supply hours and potentially tackling cholera outbreaks in the city, he said. Residents living in Lusaka expressed happiness over plans for the second phase of the project, praising China for the improvements and highlighting the positive impact on reducing the burden of traveling long distances to fetch water. Musunga Chansa, a resident of Kamwala South residential area, commended China for the phase one project, which has gone a long way in improving the water situation. "The current situation of water in our area as of now is that it has improved so much from way back. At least we are having water frequently." The phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project with an investment of 150 million U.S. dollars was financed by the Export-Import Bank of China and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation. It would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation. A 24 year old protesting farmer was killed and dozens more were injured in police action at Khanauri border in Haryana. According to the farmers, the deceased protester was killed after sustaining bullet injury on his head. He has been identified as Shubhkaran Singh, a resident of Ballo village in Punjabs Bathinda district. In a purported video, farmers are seen carrying him on their shoulders after being hit by a 12 bore bullet. One more farmer also sustained serious injury and has been admitted to Chandigarh PGI, where, according to Haryana police, his condition is said to be stable. Advertisement The farmers have claimed that as many as 160 protesters have sustained injuries in police action today. Earlier today, the farmers resumed their Delhi Chalo protest march after talks with government failed. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse the protesting farmers and stop them from marching towards the national capital. Meanwhile, Haryana police has claimed that at least 12 of its personnel were injured after farmers allegedly attacked them with sticks and pelted stones. At the Data Singh-Khanauri border, the protesters surrounded the police from all sides by pouring chilli powder in the stubble, attacked the policemen using sticks and maces along with stone pelting, about 12 policemen were seriously injured, the police said. Opposition Congress questions PM Modis silence All India Kisan Congress president Sukhpal Khaira condemned the killing of Subhakaran Singh and alleged that Haryana police opened fire at unarmed farmers who were protesting peacefully. It is with great sadness that we have to inform that a 23 year old young farmer from Punjab, Shubhakaran Singh, was shot dead by the Haryana Police at Khanauri border. Haryana Police opened fire when the farmers were protesting unarmed and peacefully, he said. Khaira also questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked why the farmers were being stopped from coming to Delhi. Despite all this, the Prime Minister of the country is silent. They are stopping the farmers of their own country from coming to Delhi by putting up barricades, he added. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar interacted with a delegation of students from the Nalanda University here on Wednesday and urged them to be trustees of peace, progress & sustainable development. The students from Nalanda University met the Vice-President at the Parliament House on invitation extended by him during his earlier visit to the institution. During his interaction with the students, Dhankhar recalled his visit to Nalanda University on 29th September, on his maiden visit to the state of Bihar. Advertisement He had reflected upon the history of Nalanda and the powerful brand it exemplified, encouraging students to take its legacy to greater heights. The Vice-President urged the students to be trustees of peace, progress and sustainable development. He also highlighted the eternal contributions of Indian civilisational ethos. The delegation comprised students from 11 countries, besides India. The countries included Bhutan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, Nepal, Argentina, Kenya, Thailand and Uganda. Three faculty members of Nalanda University, Dr B C Ambika Prasad Pani, Dr Pooja Dabral and Dr Tosabanta Padhan, accompanied the delegation of 23 students. India and China held the 21st round Corps Commander level meeting during which both sides have agreed to maintain peace and tranquility on the ground in eastern Ladakh. The 21st round of India-China Corps Commander level meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on February 19, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Wednesday. According to the MEA, the discussions built on the previous rounds, seeking complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas. Advertisement The two sides shared their perspectives on this in the talks held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, the MEA said. The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. They also committed to maintain peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas in the interim, the statement added. Earlier, held the 20th round of Corps Commander-level talks at Chushul as part of the ongoing efforts for overall disengagement and de-escalation to resolve the stand-off in eastern Ladakh. The meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Indian side on October 9-10. Earlier last month, India, while reiterating its long-standing position on China, said the two countries continue to engage on the diplomatic and military sides for some sort of a resolution. Indias position on China is very well known. It is a relationship, which is not normal, but we have had dialogues both on the military side and on the diplomatic side in October and November. And the idea is that we engage so that we can have some sort of resolution, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during the weekly media briefing on Thursday. India needs to grow at rapid rates to become a $35 trillion economy by 2047, said the countrys G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant. It will be the third largest economy by 2027, he added. India will be the third largest economy by 2027. And now that Japan, the United Kingdom and Germany are all in the recession phase, we should be able to do it much quicker and much faster, he said. While addressing an event organised by the All India Management Association, Kant said that India needs to grow at 9-10 per cent year after year for the next three decades. Advertisement It is important to be ambitious to make India grow at rapid rates and be a $35 trillion economy by 2047. The G20 Sherpa noted that India has come a long way from the time when it had faced balance sheet problems. He pointed out that unlike the West, where all innovation came from Google, Facebook, Amazon, Meta and Apple, India has demonstrated the power of digital public infrastructure By 2047, India should be an exporter of energy or clean energy to the rest of the world, he said. Our aim will be to become the cheapest producer, the cheapest exporter of green hydrogen and its liquid form ammonia and to be the biggest manufacturer of electrolyzer. Recently, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal also said that the present governments ambition is to make India a fully developed nation by 2047 and all efforts are being made in this direction. Lashing out at the previous Congress government, Piyush Goyal said the NDA government inherited a broken economy when they came to power with a clear mandate in 2014. We inherited a broken economy, deep in distress and a poor reputation around the world for the India growth story and its ability to play a part in geopolitics, he said. Meghalaya government on Wednesday presented its budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, revealing a fiscal deficit of Rs 2,029 crore, equivalent to approximately 3.83 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). This years budget introduces Mission 10, which emphasises ten strategic opportunities and assurances aimed at fostering the states growth and development. Total receipts are projected to reach Rs 27,072 crore, with revenue receipts estimated at Rs 23,515 crore and capital receipts at Rs 3,557 crore. Advertisement The total expenditure, excluding loan repayments of Rs 1,498 crore, is estimated to be Rs 25,574 crore, as stated by the Chief Minister, who also serves as the head of the Finance department. Interest payments for the fiscal year 2024-25 are forecast at Rs 1,236 crore, with pension payments amounting to Rs 1,865 crore. Chief Minister Sangma, while presenting the budget, highlighted the fiscal deficit of Rs 2,029 crore, reiterating that it represents approximately 3.83 per cent of the GSDP. He urged members of the legislative assembly and citizens to perceive this budget as Mission 10, a strategic roadmap aimed at propelling the states economy to USD 10 billion by leveraging ten key opportunities and providing as many guarantees. The Chief Minister also expressed confidence that achieving Mission 10 by 2028 would coincide with the 10-year anniversary of the (Meghalaya Democratic Alliance) MDA government. Furthermore, he acknowledged that the states goal of reaching a position among the top ten states in per capita GDP and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) achievements by 2032 was ambitious yet feasible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, beginning his tour by participating in the golden jubilee celebration of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad. He will be visiting the states on Thursday and Friday. He will then reach Mehsana in Gujarat and perform pooja and darshan at Valinath Mahadev Temple. At around 1 pm, he will participate in a public function in Tarabh, Mehsana where he will dedicate to nation and lay foundation stones of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 8,350 crore. Advertisement Later in the afternoon, the Prime Minister will reach Navsari, where he will initiate work on multiple development projects worth about Rs 24,700 crore. At around 6.15 pm, he will visit the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station. On Friday, Modi will participate in a programme for prize distribution to winners of Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita at Swatantra Sabhaghar, BHU, Varanasi. At 11.15 am, he will perform pooja and darshan at Sant Guru Ravidas Janmasthali. Later, he will attend a public function commemorating the 647th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas. He will then attend a public function where he will inaugurate and lay foundation stones of multiple development projects worth Rs 13,000 crore in Varanasi. In Gujarat, the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) will witness participation of more than 1.25 lakh farmers at Narendra Modi Stadium, Motera, Ahmedabad. The GCMMF is a testimony of the resilience of cooperatives, their entrepreneurial spirit and strong determination of farmers, which has made Amul one of the strongest dairy brands in the world. The Mehsana and Navsari projects relate to sectors like road, rail, energy, health, internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism, petroleum & natural gas and tribal development across Gujarat. The Prime Minister will dedicate to nation two new Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) Unit 3 and Unit 4. Built by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), at a cost of more than Rs 22,500 crore, the KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 projects have cumulative capacity of 1400 (700*2) MW and are the largest indigenous PHWRs. They are first of its kind reactors and with advanced safety features, are comparable with the best in the world. Together, these two reactors will produce about 10.4 billion units of clean electricity per year and benefit consumers of multiple states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, MP, Chhattisgarh, Goa and UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. In Varanasi, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay foundation stones of multiple development projects worth more than Rs 13,000 crore in Varanasi. Mr Modi will also inaugurate multiple projects related to tourism and spiritual tourism in Varanasi. The projects include redevelopment of public facilities at five Padavs of Panchkoshi Parikrama Marg and Pavan Path with ten spiritual yatra; launching of electric catamaran vessel provided by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) for Varanasi and Ayodhya. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday launched a scathing attack at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the killing of a 24-year-old protesting farmers at Khanauri border. The deceased protester, identified as Shubhkaran Singh, was allegedly killed in police firing. Reacting to the incident, the Congress MP said, Extremely saddened with the death of young farmer Shubhkaran Singh in firing on Khanauri border. I extend my condolences to his family. Modis arrogance had led to sacrifices by more than 700 farmers last time. Now, it has become an enemy of their lives once again, Gandhi posted on X. One day, history will definitely demand an account of the killing of farmers from the BJP which is hiding behind the friendly media, he added. Advertisement Earlier today, the farmers resumed their Delhi Chalo protest march but suspended it for two days after the Khanauri border incident. As the farmers tried to remove barricades set up to prevent them from marching towards Delhi, police in BJP-ruled Haryana fired tear gas shells at them. The police alleged that the farmers surrounded them and attacked with sticks and pelted stones. It further claimed that 12 policemen sustained injuries in the attack. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) which rules Punjab and Delhi said called Prime Minister Modi General Kayar (coward) equated the killing of the youth farmer with British-era atrocities. General Kayars government is the murderer of ShubhkaranWas it for this day that Bhagat Singh and lakhs of martyrs fought for freedom?That one day the central government in our own country will martyr our youth like the British? the AAP asked. Aam Aadmi Party completely stands with Shubhakarans family and will ensure strict punishment to Shubhakarans murderers, it added. Meanwhile, Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee president Sarwan Singh Pandher on announced that the Delhi Chalo protest march by farmers will be halted for the next two days after a protester was killed allegedly in police firing at Khanauri border. We will have discussions over the incident that took place in Khanauri. There will be a two-day stay on our march towards Delhi. We will clarify the entire situation later as to what our further movement will be, Pandher said at a press conference. Police in BJP-ruled Haryana fired tear gas shells at farmers near Shambhu border as they resumed their Delhi Chalo march on Wednesday after fourth round of talks with government remained inconclusive. Farmers were offered MSP on five crops, which they refused to accept and demanded a law to guarantee the minimum support price for their crops. The protesting farmers also brought poclains, JCB machines and other hydrolic equipment to remove the cement barricading and nails that the government has placed near the border to stop them from marching towards the national capital. Advertisement The police threatened to file criminal cases against the owners of JCB and other equipment and asked them not to provide their services to the farmers. Owners and operators of Poclains,JCBs:Pls do not provide the services of our equipment to the protestors. Pl withdraw these machines from the protest site. These machines may be used to cause harm to security forces, its a non bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable, the police said in a social media post. Meanwhile, farmers leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said that they have decided that only leaders will mar h forward and farmers and youth have been asked to stay back. Weve decided that no farmer, youth will march forward. Leaders will march ahead. We will go peacefully All this can be ended if they (central govt) make a law on MSP, he said. Earlier in the day, Pandher, who is also the General Secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Committee, had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government to discuss their issues or allow farmers to proceed to Delhi to hold a protest peacefully. We are saying that it is also the Prime Ministers responsibility, we too have voted to make him the PM of the country. This country belongs to everyone, the PM belongs to everyone. He should come forward and handle the situation and fulfil our demands, Pandher said while addressing a joint press conference with other farmer leaders at the Shambhu border on Wednesday morning. We tried our best, attended meetings, and every point was discussed. Now the decision has to be taken by the Centre. The Prime Minister should come forward and accept our demands. Rs 1.5-2 lakh crore is not a very big amountabout 60 per cent of the farmers are dependent on it. If farm labourers are added, it constitutes 80 per cent of the countrys population, then our best effort is to remain peaceful, he added. Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda has once again urged the farmers to join fifth round of talks. After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP demand, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR in the fifth round. I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace, Munda said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised the boundless splendor of Naimisharanya, noting its significance echoed across various religious scriptures. During the inauguration of the Sthapna-Pran-Pratishtha Mahotsav of Sri Sri Jagdamba Raj Rajeshwari Temple and the Chitshakti gate of the new temple, on Wednesday, Yogi Adityanath highlighted its reference in revered texts such as the Ramcharit Manas by Saint Tulsidas. It was here that thousands of sages, guided by Lord Vedvyas, engaged in deep meditation and gave Indias rich heritage of Vedic wisdom and science a written form, he added. Elaborating further, he mentioned significant events tied to Naimisharanya, such as Maharishi Dadhichis donation of his bones during the Devasur battle. Part of Satis tongue had fallen at this place in the form of Lalita Devi. Shaktipeeth, the sacred abode of Maa Lalita Devi and Chakratirtha, is located here. Connecting the dots, Saint Sanmukhanand Puri Ji Maharaj established Rajarajeshwari Temple and Ashram, he said. Advertisement After offering prayers at the site, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath underscored the significance of Jagdamba Rajarajeshwari, whose rituals serve as a guiding light for the nation, society, and individual conduct towards public welfare. Keeping in mind the importance of Naimish Tirtha, the government has taken several steps. Action is underway to develop it as a pilgrimage site, Stating that religion is much more than a set of rituals, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised its role in guiding individuals towards virtuous paths. He stressed the universal significance of Sanatan Dharma, stating that as long as it thrives, humanity would continue to progress towards collective welfare. Conversely, any threat to Sanatan Dharma jeopardises the well-being of humanity as a whole. Reflecting on the spiritual journey of Saint Sanmukhanand Puri Ji Maharaj, who devoted years to meditation along the banks of the river Narmada, the chief minister noted the tangible fruits of his devotion in the form of the Rajarajeshwari Ashram and temple. A new dimension and gem is being added to Naimish area with the Rajarajeshwari Ashram and temple (Naimish kshetra mein nayi kadi aur nayi mani judne ja rahi hai), he remarked. Praising the nationwide initiatives led by Prime Minister Modi aimed at revitalising Indias rich cultural heritage, Yogi highlighted the remarkable transformation of iconic sites like Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakaal, Kedarpuri, Badrinath Dham, and Ayodhya, which have rekindled the faith of millions of Sanatan Dharma followers after centuries. Expressing his vision for Naimisharanya, the chief minister emphasised the importance of restoring its ancient glory, not only for religious reasons but also for economic growth. He underscored the potential for creating employment opportunities for thousands of local youth through the rejuvenation of the pilgrimage site. Reflecting on the economic boost experienced by traders in Ayodhya post-consecration, he emphasized the trickle-down effect of such developments on all sections of society. Furthermore, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated the overarching goal of the initiatives spearheaded by PM Modi, which transcends barriers of caste, creed, attire, and cuisine. He emphasised that when every citizen dedicates his efforts and achievements to the service of the nation, Indias ascent as a global powerhouse becomes inevitable. He stressed the symbiotic relationship between public welfare and national progress, asserting that the two are inseparable and indispensable for the nations advancement. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed satisfaction with the states current credit-deposit (CD) ratio at 58.59 per cent, setting an ambitious goal to elevate it to 65 per cent in the next financial year. He committed to offering all necessary support and security to facilitate this growth for banks. Furthermore, the chief minister emphasised the importance of adopting a mission-driven approach to expand digital banking and financial literacy across all 75 districts. Advertisement Reviewing the quarter of the current financial year ending December 2023 in the meeting of the State Level Bankers Committee here on Wednesday, he said, Banks have played a commendable role in our efforts to provide financial incentives in the form of loans to every needy and energetic youth. This sequence of loan fairs should continue further. Do not hesitate in extending loans. In each of its schemes, the government will ensure training and capacity building of the beneficiaries before providing loans, he added. Referring to the state governments ambitious scheme Family ID, he said that all the banks should provide complete data on beneficiaries of Central and state government schemes so that the situation of every family in the state can be accurately assessed. The chief minister also reviewed the progress of key social security programs, including the Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. He highlighted that, in alignment with the Prime Ministers vision, the state has been successful in ensuring that every citizen benefits from these crucial social security schemes. In the special meeting, the Chief Minister lauded the One GP-One BC (One Gram Panchayat-One Banking Correspondent Sakhi) initiative for its significant contribution to financial inclusion. He encouraged banks to offer additional incentives to BC Sakhis, acknowledging their pivotal role in empowering women and fostering self-reliance, thereby setting a sterling example of financial inclusion. Furthermore, the chief minister addressed the recent challenges faced by B C Sakhis due to issues with the Paytm Payment Bank. He stressed the importance of quickly resolving these issues. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also called for enhancing CCTV coverage to bolster bank security and ensure seamless access to CCTV footage for law enforcement as needed. He noted the significant growth of the banking sector in the state, with the business expanding from Rs 12.80 lakh crore in 2016-17 to over Rs 26.80 lakh crore presently, expressing optimism for the future. As part of the event, the Chief Minister distributed the states share to Baroda-UP Gramin Bank and Aryavarta Gramin Bank, 1.10 lakh Kisan Credit Cards, launched 1111 new banking outlets, and provided tool kits to 10 BC Sakhis. Reserve Bank of India CGM Nisha Nambiar also had a special presence at the meeting. She emphasized the expansion of digital banking. The Chief Minister also gave instructions to hold the meeting of the Bankers Committee at the state level under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary every three months and in the district every month. On this occasion, the HDFC Bank was presented with a certificate for the adoption of 150 Vantangiya villages under the Comprehensive Rural Development Program. The bank will construct 75 smart classes as well as carry out many development works in these villages. NAIROBI, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- International solidarity will be key to phasing out short-lived climate pollutants or super pollutants that include methane, black carbon, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), senior United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) officials said Wednesday. Inger Andersen, the UNEP's executive director, said at the opening of the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Conference in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, that eliminating these gases which harm the ozone layer has worsened air pollution and are detrimental to human health calls for unified action. "We must deliver action on super pollutants to help achieve net zero goal, protect the ozone layer, and improve air quality," Andersen said, noting that multilateralism is key to hastening the phaseout of short-lived climate pollutants. The two-day Climate and Clean Air Conference 2024 has brought together policymakers, scientists and green campaigners to discuss best practices to curb the emission of super pollutants from agriculture, fossil fuels, household cooling, and heavy-duty vehicle engines. It will be a precursor to the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) to be held in Nairobi from Feb. 26 to March 1 under the theme of "effective, inclusive and sustainable multilateral actions to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution." Andersen observed that lethargic action on short-lived climate pollutants would deny humanity a sustainable and resilient future, stressing that leveraging science, policy, and practice is key to accelerating their phaseout. She singled out the Global Methane Pledge, the Clean Air Flagship, and the Kigali Amendment as effective multilateral instruments whose implementation will revitalize efforts to eliminate super pollutants from the atmosphere. Rose Mwebaza, regional director for Africa at UNEP, said that harmonizing policies and laws, leveraging technology, research, and advocacy is key to sustaining action on short-lived climate pollutants. Mwebaza called for remodeling sectors responsible for emitting super pollutants including cooling, agriculture, manufacturing, and transport to boost air quality, climate resilience, and human health. Exactly twenty years after it was introduced, the participants in the New Pension Scheme (NPS) are feeling the pinch. Neither the government, nor the trade unions, nor even the beneficiaries the employees of state and central governments heeded the economists hints and analytical advice at that time. There was a point that the participants had not raised their voices because the scheme was announced before anyone joined the government. It was specifically stated that the NPS would be applicable only to employees hired on or after 1 January 2004. There was a reason the previous employees did not raise their voices because they were already protected and were unconcerned about the new entrants into the system. There was a point for the government to push it because the private sector strongly lobbied the government to make a quick buck out of the employed class retirement funds. However, it was pointless for the trade unions to remain silent. The New Pension Scheme is more about politics and confusion than mathematics and actuarial valuations, as it appears to us. The history of the NPS is not appealing to anyone concerned with the old age income and survivor benefits of retired government employees. The evening years of their lives were gradually and quietly dimmed. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, launched Project OASIS (Old Age Social and Income Security) in August 1998, claiming its stake as a provider of old-age security to the population as a measure of social justice. The original mandate and focus of the Project OASIS expert committee was on the ninety per cent of workers who were not covered by any pension scheme in India; however, it made departure from its mandate and made a paradigm shift in advising reforms to civil service pensions in India on the premise that the governments finances are under pressure due to an ageing civil service. Advertisement The project work was assigned to a privately managed economic foundation in Mumbai, with interests in financial and capital market education in India, as well as encouraging private investments and private fund managers. The foundation believed the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment recognised that poverty alleviation programmes aimed at the elderly alone cannot solve our elderlys income and social security problems; the problem must be addressed through thrift and self-help, in which people save for old age during their working lives. The governments role in this endeavour could be to build the necessary institutional infrastructure in collaboration with the private sector to enable and encourage each citizen to take on this task. Based on the foregoing, the expert committee under Project OASIS proposed an individual contribution-based, non-benefit guaranteed, non-return guaranteed, non-accumulation guaranteed pension scheme for the unorganised sector, to be managed by private fund managers, in which contributions of Rs. 5 to Rs. 10 per day per worker flowed into the system and were expected to generate wealth for their old age. If it were to be accepted and implemented, a major advocacy campaign would be required to rally support from informal workers, collect their shares, invest in the markets, earn profits, and ask them to wait until they reached the age of sixty. Instead, the foundation targeted government employees across the country, where money could flow into their investment businesses with a single government order; and they were successful in convincing the government to replace the old defined benefit social security pension with contribution-based NPS for civil servants hired on or after 1 January 2004. The General Provident Fund was abolished and replaced with a voluntary Tier II benefit under the new pension system. The New Pension Scheme would operate on a defined contribution basis and will have two tiers. Tier I is required for all government employees who begin their careers on or after 1 January 2004. In Tier I, government employees must contribute 10 per cent of their basic pay, Dearness Pay, and Dearness Allowance, which will be deducted from their monthly salary bill. The government will make an equal matching contribution. At exit, he must invest 40 per cent of his pension wealth in an annuity (from an IRDA-regulated Life Insurance Company), which will provide pension for the employee and his dependent parents/ employee for the rest of his life. If a government employee leaves the scheme before reaching the age of 60, the mandatory annuitisation would be 80 per cent of the pension wealth. The quantum of benefit is not defined. This is a departure from a defined benefit pension scheme. In the old system, government employees knew that their pension would be 50 per cent of their last salary if they served at least 25 years or proportionate to the service. The benefit in NPS is unknown. Neither the return on accumulated capital nor the return on investment is guaranteed. In addition, there is no family pension. According to the original proposals, employee contributions would be invested in the market of their choosing. Employee financial literacy issues were ignored. The funniest part is that under the old system, the government paid pensions to employees only after they retired. The burden of all employees is not immediate. The government pays a monthly contribution to private fund managers under NPS, in addition to a pension to the old cohorts. The burden on the exchequer has increased rather than decreased. Only the central government knows how wise the decision to carry two burdens at once under the guise of reducing the burden on the exchequer is. (The writer is former International Senior Adviser, United Nations Development Programme.) In the vast tapestry of global commerce, disruptions often emerge from unexpected quarters, sending shockwaves through delicate supply chains. The Red Sea crisis, triggered by missile and drone attacks by Yemens Houthi militants, has become a formidable hurdle for Indias small exporters, transforming what was already a challenging landscape into a perilous journey. At the heart of the matter lies the re-routing of ships away from the Suez Canal, a vital artery for Indias merchandise trade with Europe and the United States. The ripple effects of this strategic shift are keenly felt by small exporters who find themselves grappling with soaring shipping costs and extended delivery times. The aftershocks have created a daunting scenario where even the survival of these businesses is at stake. The tales of woe from exporters in Kolkata, Chennai, and other hubs paint a stark picture of businesses stretched to their limits. Indian exporters lament losing significant orders to competitors in Europe who benefit from stable freight rates. This scenario is emblematic of a broader trend where countries like Turkey and Poland gain an advantage, siphoning off business from their Indian counterparts. For small exporters operating on razor-thin profit margins, the consequences are dire. The fact that they were already navigating challenging terrain, with profit margins typically between 3 and 7 per cent, intensifies the impact of the Red Sea crisis. As they watch orders slip away and absorb increased costs, the very fabric of their existence is fraying. The situation is exacerbated by longer shipping times leading to reduced freight capacity, exacerbating container scarcity. In the textile hub of Tirupur, small exporters are operating at a mere third of their capacity, and job losses are becoming visible. A dire plea emerges from entrepreneurs associations, urging government intervention to prevent the impending demise of these small exporters. Indias textile industry, a significant employer of 45 million people directly and 15 million indirectly, is under threat. Textiles, engineering goods, and gems and jewellery ~ Indias key sectors exporting to Europe and the United States ~ are bearing the brunt. The scale of the challenge is highlighted by the fact that more than 80 per cent of Indias merchandise trade with Europe and the United States typically passes through the Red Sea. As Indias small exporters grapple with this crisis, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Many export contracts are up for renewal in March or April, marking the start of the business year. Exporters express optimism that customers, with whom they share long-term relationships, will be willing to absorb some of the burden of increased freight costs during contract reviews. Survival of small exporters hinges not only on immediate government relief but also on the ability to forge partnerships that withstand the tempest. The fate of these small exporters serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile interconnectedness that defines our global economy. Advertisement Chinas central bank has cut its key mortgage reference rate by a record amount, as it ramps up efforts to stem a prolonged property crisis, a media report said. The Peoples Bank of China (PBoC) announced on Tuesday that it would cut its five-year loan prime rate (LPR) from 4.2 per cent to 3.95 per cent, while keeping the one-year LPR unchanged at 3.45 per cent, CNN reported. The 25 basis point cut to the five-year LPR is the biggest reduction the central bank has made since it revamped its LPR system in 2019. Advertisement LPR is the rate at which commercial banks lend to their best customers. The five-year rate usually serves as a reference for mortgages. Todays 25 (basis point) cut to the five-year LPR is clearly aimed at supporting the housing market, analysts from Capital Economics said in a note on Tuesday, CNN reported. On its own, it will not revive new home sales. But coupled with efforts to provide increased credit support to the developers, todays cut should help to reduce pressure on the property sector somewhat, they said, as per the report. Chinas economy has been hobbled by a real-estate downturn since 2021, when a government crackdown on developers borrowing triggered a liquidity crisis in the sector. The property market has since entered a prolonged slump, marked by an ongoing decline in both investment and sales of property. Dozens of major developers have defaulted on their debt, with Evergrande, once the countrys second largest homebuilder, ordered to liquidate last month, CNN reported. Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6) Today Cloudy with snow showers changing to rain showers as the day progresses. High 41F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Cloudy with showers of rain and wet snow this evening. Low 26F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precip 50%. BEIJING, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- China's Minister of Justice He Rong said at a symposium on Wednesday that the country had started drafting a law on promoting its private economy. The symposium was jointly held by the Ministry of Justice, the National Development and Reform Commission, and the Legislative Affairs Commission of the National People's Congress Standing Committee to discuss the legislation concerning promotion of the private economy, attended by representatives of private enterprises and academics. He said the drafting work would widely solicit opinions from the public and reach a consensus among different parties so that the law can effectively promote the healthy development of the private sector. The attendees agreed that the major concerns of private enterprises should be well addressed, including protecting the property rights of private businesses, ensuring their equal participation in market competition, and resolving overdue payments owed to small and medium businesses. They emphasized the necessity of boosting confidence, energizing business entities and stimulating their creativity, and promoting the development of new productive forces. Kimball Shinkoskey is the author of a book on the American presidents and their wars, The American Kings: Growth in Presidential Power from George Washington to Barack Obama, as well as Democracy and the Ten Commandments. A resident of Woods Cross, Utah, Shinkoskey is a frequent contributor to The Sun Chronicle. Reach him at kshinkos@gmail.com . Under the leadership of Aimee Brewer, Sturdy Health posted a $17.2 million profit for the last fiscal year. Brewer, who is president and CEO, says Sturdy is deeply committed to the community. Children walk past a vehicle damaged in an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Feb. 21, 2024. One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) JENIN, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said in a statement that its crew had transported two injured people, one with several gunshot wounds and the other with bullet fragments in his leg, and the body of a young Palestinian to the hospital. Israel's special forces stormed the camp and raided a house in the Al-Samran neighborhood before they had armed clashes with Palestinian gunmen, according to local Palestinian sources. The Israeli forces sent reinforcements to the city of Jenin and the camp that include dozens of military vehicles and bulldozers, and surrounded several homes to arrest "wanted persons," according to the sources. The sources added Israeli airstrikes hit at least two missile sites in the Jenin camp and explosions were heard in the city. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank has risen to 399 since the outbreak of Israel-Hamas conflict on Oct. 7, 2023. People are seen in front of a building damaged in an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Feb. 21, 2024. One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) A child stands inside a building damaged in an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Feb. 21, 2024. One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) A child stands inside a building damaged in an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Feb. 21, 2024. One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) A child stands inside a building damaged in an Israeli raid in the West Bank city of Jenin, on Feb. 21, 2024. One Palestinian was killed and two others were wounded during an Israeli military raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said on Wednesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) Job Title: EFM CDC Office Management Assistant (Management Assistant) Organisation: United States US Embassy, US Mission in Uganda Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda Salary: USD $42,391 /Per Year Position Number: Kampala-2023-090-RA1 About US Embassy: The United States Embassy in Kampala, Uganda has enjoyed diplomatic relations with Uganda for over 30 years. Ambassador Natalie E. Brown currently heads the U.S Mission to Uganda. The Mission is composed of several offices and organizations all working under the auspices of the Embassy and at the direction of the Ambassador. Among the offices operating under the U.S Mission to Uganda are: United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Peace Corps Job Summary: The CDC Office Management Assistant (Management Assistant) should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Job holder is required to have excellent writing, proofreading, editing, presentation, and oral communication skills. Is required to have intermediate proficiency in Microsoft SharePoint, Word, Excel, Forms, Teams, Outlook, PowerPoint, OneDrive, and cloud-based collaboration tools, and be able to effectively use the internet. Job holder is required to be able to manage multiple tasks with a high degree of accuracy and attention-to-detail, cope with various personalities in addressing competing requests, keep tight deadlines, function in a stressful environment, and coordinate large numbers of people. S/he is required to be able to use discretion and exercise good judgement in working with sensitive HR or staffing information. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: NOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each item. The applicants for the United States US Embassy EFM CDC Office Management Assistant (Management Assistant) job opportunity should have completed post-secondary education. Required. At least three years of administrative or clerical working experience in project coordination/project management is required. Familiarity with basic organization, coordination, and project management principles and tools, including cloud-based collaboration tools. Familiarity with basic organization, coordination, and project management principles and tools, including cloud-based collaboration tools. Language: Level 4 Fluent; speaking/reading/writing, may include the ability to translate. This may be tested. How to Apply: All those interested in working with the United States Embassy, US Mission in Kampala should send their applications online at the link below. Click Here Deadline: 15th March 2024 For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline The BharatGPT group, which is backed by Reliance Industries, is set to come out with an indigenous ChatGPT-style service next month, in what may be a shot in the arm for India's artificial intelligence (AI) aspirations. The model, named Hanooman, after the Hindi deity Hanuman, is being developed in collaboration with eight Indian Institute of Technology universities, and with the backing of the government. The model is expected to offer services in four different fieldsfinancial services, healthcare, education, and governanceand will work via 11 local languages. A sneak peek of the model was offered during the recent technology conference that was held in Mumbai. At the technology conference, the model displayed a bike mechanic interacting with the AI bot in Tamil and a banker interacting with it in Hindi. Besides, a developer from Hyderabad used the AI robot to write computer code. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, chair of IIT Bombays department of computer science and engineering, remarked that the AI robot will offer speech-to-text capabilities, making it highly user-friendly, reported Bloomberg. Reliance Jio will build customized models for specific uses, he added. Actor Dileep faces another setback in the actor assault case. The Kerala High Court directed that the report of the inquiry into the change in hash value of the memory card containing visuals of the crime while it was in the court's chest be handed over to the survivor. Justice K Babu accepted a request by the complainant seeking a copy of the inquiry report. The hash value of a memory card changes when it is used in different devices to access its content. Dileep has asked for the report to be labelled as a confidential document. The eighth accused in the case, Dileep demanded that he too be given a copy of the report. Justice K Babu rejected the plea. The survivor will have to file an application with the District Principal Sessions Judge for a copy of the report. The report will make it clear as to who had accessed the memory card. The survivor had earlier requested the trial court to inquire who had illegally examined the memory card and asked that the owner of the phone should be found. Thiruvananthapuram Forensic Lab found that the hash value of the memory card had been changed. The SFSL report said that the memory card was accessed illegally several times after court hours on the phone. The survivor had approached the Sessions Court to obtain a copy of the report. The request was denied on the grounds that the report was a confidential document. She then filed a petition with the High Court. In February 2017, an actor from the Malayalam film industry made a police complaint that she was sexually assaulted in a moving vehicle and that the assault was taped. Dileep's name became associated in the case after a letter written by one of the perpetrators to the actor emerged. Actor Trisha took to social media platform X to express her disgust at vulgar remarks made by AIADMK politician AV Raju. She wrote, It's disgusting to repeatedly see low lives and despicable human beings who will stoop down to any level to gain attention. Rest assured, necessary and severe action will be taken. Anything that needs to be said and done henceforth will be from my legal department. It's disgusting to repeatedly see low lives and despicable human beings who will stoop down to any level to gain https://t.co/dcxBo5K7vL assured,necessary and severe action will be taken.Anything that needs to be said and done henceforth will be from my legal department. Trish (@trishtrashers) February 20, 2024 Raju said that Trisha allegedly was paid Rs 25 lakhs by former CM Edapaddi Palaniswami for having physical relations with the actor. Raju went on to say all actresses are the same. Raju's comments went viral and have been doing the rounds on social media ever since. Several fans, over social media, urged the actress to take action. Raju went on Actor Vishal spoke out against Raju. He took to X and wrote, I just heard that a stupid idiot from a political party spoke very ill and disgustingly about someone from our film fraternity. I will not mention your name nor the name of the person you targeted because I know you did it for publicity. I definitely will not mention names because we are not just good friends but also mutual co-artistes in the film fraternity. I wish and hope that the women in your house welcome you back home after what you have done, if they even have a conscience, even if you don't have one. Soon after Trisha posted her comment, the politician apologised. He said the media misinterpreted his comments, I said about a woman who looks like actress Trisha and not actress Trisha. I apologise to everyone in the film industry including Trisha," he clarified. With the first set of Made in India Brahmos missiles expected to reach the Philippines in about a month, a technical working group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines is taking a closer look at Indias offer to sell the indigenous light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas. Confirming that the Tejas LCA buy is under consideration, Commodore Joe Anthony Orbe, commander of the naval forces, Southern Luzon, said, (While) we have got the Brahmos advanced missile system from India, we dont have the information (on Tejas) yet because we have a technical working group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines having that final decision on this procurement. Commodore Orbe is leading a delegation of the Philippines Navy to participate in the Indian Navys flagship Milan 2024 exercise that began in Visakhapatnam on February 19 and is to conclude on February 27. Interestingly, an Indian industry delegation, manufacturing defence platforms and products, was in Manila just last week to explore defence partnerships. The delegates were from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL), Bharat Dynamics, Mahindra Emirates Vehicle Armouring, and DCM Shriram Industries, among others. On February 16, Shambhu Kumaran, Indian ambassador to the Philippines, had said during a defence industry event in Taguig City, We have naval systems, we have fighter aircraft. We have a broad range of capabilities on the Indian sidehelicopters, attack helicopters, land systems, artillery systemsand some of those would match with the capabilities you are looking to acquire in the Horizon 3. Of significance is the fact that the Philippines is about to implement a mega Peso 2-trillion revised military modernisation plan called 'Re-Horizon 3' to be implemented over the next 10 years. The Philippines Navy had inked a Rs 2,770 crore deal with Brahmos Aerospace in January 2022 for the supply of three missile batteries, while reports speak of a keen interest by the Philippines Army to procure more of the Indian missile system. Brahmos missiles are manufactured in India by Brahmos Aerospace, where India owns a 50.5 per cent stake while Russias state-owned NPO Mashinostroyenia has 49.5 per cent share. The export of the missile to other nations has to have the acquiescence of both the Indian and Russian governments as the missile development and manufacturing is an India-Russia joint venture set up in 1998. Seen as an effective check on a belligerent China, the three-ton Brahmos is touted to be among the fastest cruise missiles with a strike range of about 450 km. It is a two-stage precision strike projectile that operates on a fire-and-forget principle with a top speed of 2.8 mach (3,347 km an hour) and is capable of delivering a 300 kg warhead. At the forefront of the Sino-US competition since the 1950s, the Philippines is donning the role of a small but defiant power looking up to China in the eye. At the root of the dispute lies Chinas claim to over 80 per cent of the South China Sea. Of late, there have been several scraps between belligerent Chinese Navy ships and Philippines fishing boats, including ramming of the smaller fishing boats and water cannoning. Incumbent Philippines President Bongbong Marcos is openly pro-US while his predecessor Rodrigo R. Duterte favoured Beijing. The Philippines has also been undertaking joint air force patrols with US forces in the West Philippine Sea. In a sign of escalating tensions, Eduardo M Ano, the Philippines national security adviser, said in a statement: The Philippines rejects Chinas assertion that joint patrols with US forces in the West Philippine Sea constitute stirring up trouble. Our engagements with the United States are well within our rights as a sovereign and independent nation. Meanwhile, India and China are engaged in a nearly four-year-long border face-off in the eastern Ladakh mountains that began after a border scuffle over territorial claims between the two biggest militaries in Asia. It led to a massive military buildup by both sides as a result of which about 1,20,000 soldiers have been in active deployments along with their heavy military equipment in extreme high altitude and hostile terrain. After a break of two days following a meeting with the Centre, the farmers resumed the Delhi Chalo march on Wednesday. The farmers are currently gathered at the Shambhu and Khanauri points on the Punjab and Haryana border since their march was stopped by security forces on February 13. Ahead of restarting the march, Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) leader Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the Centre to let them march to Delhi. "We have told the government that you can kill us but please don't oppress the farmers. We request the Prime Minister to come forward and put an end to this protest by announcing a law on the MSP guarantee for the farmers," Pandher said, adding that the country would not forgive the government for stationing paramilitary forces in the villages of Haryana. "What crime have we committed? We have made you the Prime Minister. We never thought that the forces would oppress us this way. Please protect the Constitution and let us peacefully head towards Delhi. This is our right," Pandher added. Seize bulldozers The Haryana Police on Tuesday asked its Punjab counterparts to seize bulldozers which they allege protesting farmers from Punjab have brought with them as they plan to resume their 'Delhi Chalo' from the interstate border. Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapoor, in an urgent communication to his Punjab counterpart Gaurav Yadav, asked Punjab Police to seize all bulldozers and earthmoving equipment at the two border points. He said such equipment may pose a threat to security forces and the owners of such equipment should be strictly warned against providing them to the protesting farmers as it would "amount to a criminal act". "It is reliably learnt that heavy earthmoving equipment including proclain (digger), JCB etc., that have been further modified/armour-plated have been acquired by protesting farmers and have been deployed at the border locations where the protesters are camping right now. "These machines are meant to be used by the protesters to damage the barricades thereby posing serious danger to the police and paramilitary forces deployed on duty and is likely to compromise the security scenario in Haryana," Kapoor said in his communication. MHA warning The Union Home Ministry has also conveyed its strong objections to the Punjab government regarding the situation at the borders. The Centre has estimated that nearly 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses. At the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, around 4,500 people have gathered with 500 tractor-trolleys, the MHA said. In a communication to the Punjab government, the Union Home Ministry also said that the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state has been a matter of concern over the last few days and asked it to take stringent action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many miscreants in the guise of farmers were indulging in stone-pelting, mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjab's border with Haryana. In view of the above, it is requested to take immediate review and stringent action to curb all such disrupting activities in the guise of farmers' protest, it said. The home ministry also said that as per reports, the court has asked the Punjab government to ensure that protestors do not gather in large numbers, especially raising serious objections on the use of tractor-trolleys, JCBs and other heavy equipment on highways. Claiming that Aadhaar cards were deactivated mostly of people from the Matua community, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday lashed out at the BJP alleging that it was a "political game" and the conspiracy was stopped by her party. Speaking at the 'International Mother Language Day' programme, the Trinamool Congress supremo claimed that this conspiracy was hatched to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state. "A dirty conspiracy was played in deactivating Aadhaar cards, we have stopped it. It is Bengal and not some other place. Do not forget that," she said. She alleged that there are plans to set up detention camps in the state. "Aadhaar cards of Matua community people have been deactivated. Who gave you the right to do so? They don't even know why the card was deactivated," Banerjee said. Maybe after five years, these people will be called foreigners, the TMC supremo claimed adding: "This is a dirty political game keeping in mind the vote bank." Attacking the BJP government at the Centre, she alleged that the Aadhaar cards are being deactivated as a precursor to bring in the NRC. Banerjee has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking reasons behind the deactivation of Aadhaar cards taken without the state government's knowledge. Referring to Tuesday's incident of a Sikh IPS officer, who was deputed to prevent senior West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting restive Sandeshkhali, being allegedly dubbed as a 'Khalistani' by saffron party workers, Banerjee said that incident damaged the reputation of the state. "What was the fault of one Punjabi officer? He was doing his duty. How can you call him a Khalistani just because he was wearing a turban? There are so many Muslims who are IAS, IPS, and WBCS officers. Will you call them Pakistanis?" she said. Banerjee stated that there are Punjab Regiment and Gorkha Regiment in the armed forces but there is no Bengal Regiment despite the Bengalis having a huge contribution to the country's freedom struggle. "As per @BJP4India, every person wearing a TURBAN is a KHALISTANI. I VEHEMENTLY CONDEMN this audacious attempt to undermine the reputation of our SIKH BROTHERS & SISTERS, revered for their SACRIFICES and UNWAVERING DETERMINATION to our nation," she posted on X.. "We stand firm in protecting Bengal's social harmony and will take stern lawful measures to prevent any attempts to disrupt it," Banerjee said.. The BJP, however, denied the charge and accused the police officer of not performing his duty following Constitutional norms. The farmers resumed their 'Delhi Chalo' protest march on Wednesday amid the Haryana police raising alarm over the use of excavators and heavy machinery to remove the barriers put up at the borders. The march resumed after the farmers rejected the BJP-led Centre's proposal for procuring pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP by government agencies for five years. Ahead of the march, Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said the march would be peaceful. "We've decided that no farmer and youth will march forward. Only the leaders will march ahead. We will go peacefully," Pandher said, adding that all this can be ended if the government make a law on MSP. Pandher's response comes as the Union Home Ministry conveyed its strong objections to the Punjab government regarding the situation at the borders. The Centre has estimated that nearly 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, and 10 mini-buses. To this, Pandher said: "We are not going to attack our jawans. They are ours. We again request the government to introduce the MSP law and this protest will be finished." #WATCH | On the 'Delhi Chalo' march today, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher says, "We've decided that no farmer, youth will march forward. Leaders will march ahead. We will go peacefully... All this can be ended if they (central govt) make a law on MSP..." pic.twitter.com/PFmVaKkY60 ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 On Wednesday, the farmers at the Shambhu border were seen holding iron shields, distributing salt, and wearing gas masks to protect themselves. However, when the march began, the Haryana security personnel fired tear gas shells at protesters marching towards the multi-layered barricades at the Shambhu border point, forcing them to flee. Meanwhile, Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda said the government is ready to hold a fifth round of talks with the farmers. "In the 5th round of meetings, we are ready to talk with farmers and discuss issues like MSP, stubble, FIR, and crop diversification. I appeal to them to maintain peace and we should find a solution through dialogue," Munda was quoted by ANI. He said the farmers are yet to respond to the talks announcement. "No information has come yet (from the farmers' side). We appeal that we should move forward with talks and present our stand. The government also wants to move forward and find a solution," he said. The BJP too said the government remains committed to the farmers. "The government has so much for farmers. Farmers' progress is our priority and will continue to remain so," Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told reporters. The farmers' groups had rejected the government's previous proposal for five-year contracts and guaranteed support prices for produce such as corn, cotton and pulses. Meanwhile, the Haryana Police on Wednesday asked JCB owners to withdraw their machines from the protest site, or else they will be held liable for action. According to police, these excavators might cause harm to security personnel deployed at the two border points of Punjab and Haryana if protesting farmers used them. "For owners and operators of Poclains, JCBs: Please do not provide your equipment to the protestors and withdraw them from the protest site if already done, as they may be used to cause harm to security forces. It is a non-bailable offence and you may be held criminally liable," said police in a post on X. The protesting farmers have put on hold their Delhi Chalo march for two days after one of their members was killed in clashes at Khanauri on the Punjab-Haryana border on Wednesday evening. The protesters alleged that the farmer died during police action and said they will decide the next course of action on Friday evening. They claimed that Haryana Police personnel fired rubber bullets, besides tear gas shells, at them. The deceased has been identified as Subhkaran Singh (21), a resident of Baloke village in Punjab's Bathinda district. "Three patients have come to us from Khanauri. One of them was dead on arrival, the other two are stable and seem to have sustained bullet injuries... but it can't be confirmed," Patiala-based Rajindra Hospital's medical superintendent H.S. Rekhi said, reported NDTV. Meanwhile, a Haryana Police officer said around 12 police personnel were injured when they were attacked with lathis and stones thrown at them in Khanauri. The farmers organisations condemned the death of the protester and said the incident has exposed the brutality of the Narendra Modi government. "The BJP government in Haryana led by Manohar Lal Khattar is treating protesting farmerswho are marching towards Delhi like enemy soldiers and is carrying out war-like operations," the All-India Kisan Sabha said in a statement. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) said that the government which failed to implement the agreement signed on December 9, 2021, was solely responsible for the present crisis and the causality. Thousands of farmers remain camped at Khanauri and Shambhu with their tractor-trolleys and trucks agitating for their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver. Heavy earthmoving equipment, including excavators, and modified tractors were seen at the protest sites, and police had cautioned that these might be used to break barricades and cause harm to security personnel. With deep inlets from the sea with average depths of about 16 metres allowing anchorage of sea-faring ships, very few port cities have been so naturally endowed as Vishakhapatnam. The water depth also allows submarines to operate very close to the coast. That was the reason why the ill-fated Pakistani Navy submarine PNS Ghazi had decided to prowl close to the Vishakhapatnam coast during the 1971 war with India. Given on lease by the United States, the Ghazi was Pakistans flagship submarine of that time, till it mysteriously sank in December 1971 off the Vishakhapatnam coast with all 93 personnel onboard. While the Indian version claims that its INS Rajput sank the Ghazi, Pakistan blames it on an internal explosion and the mines that were floated to guard the Vishakhapatnam port. One of the Navy sensors that were used to locate the undersea wreckage of the sunk Pakistan submarine | Sanjay Ahlawat It is not just the PNS Ghazi that lies on the seabed near the port city. The wreckage of a Japanese submarine RO-110 also lies on the seafloor for the last 80 years that was sunk by depth charges of the Royal Indian Navys HMIS Jumna and the Australian Navys Ipswich. The wreckagea few nautical miles from the coasthas also been examined closely by Indian Navys Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). "We have located the Ghazi but we do not touch it in deference and out of respect for those fallen in true traditions of the Indian Navy," a senior official told THE WEEK. It is only in 2018 that India acquired the capability to operate DSRVs to locate sunk vessels and submarines and accordingly undertake rescue operations if the need so arises. India now operates two such DSRVsone each for the eastern and western seaboardsthat can be either ship-mounted or air-transportable. Of the about 40 countries across the world that operate submarines, only six nations have developed the capability to deploy a DSRV. SUVA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Fiji is taking proactive steps to strengthen its counter-terrorism capabilities, with a three-day workshop underway in the island nation, according to Mason Smith, permanent secretary for Ministry of Home Affairs. Fiji Broadcasting Corporation news website on Wednesday quoted Smith as saying that the move was of importance. "Fiji needs to have a bill that is the overarching umbrella legislation that will define Fiji's policy on terrorism and provide a directive to the whole of the government's effort in dealing with terrorist activities," he said. The cabinet had agreed to revive the counterterrorism effort through the development of a national counterterrorism strategy and a bill, Smith said, adding that steps have been taken to ensure that the cabinet's intent is operationalized. A few days ago, when this correspondent entered the drawing room of Fali S. Nariman's house in south Delhi to seek his opinion on the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court in the Electoral Bonds Scheme case, he was engrossed in a vibrant discussion with a couple of junior lawyers over a case in the Supreme Court that they were preparing for. ALSO READ: Tributes pour in as doyen of constitutional law dies At 95, Nariman's voice was loud and clear as he forcefully argued over the finer points of law with regard to the case. He enriched the discussion with inputs derived from his own experience as a lawyer spanning over seven decades. He drew from his own vast memory references to cases heard long ago. And, at times, he also got impatient if he felt his ideas were not getting across. He wrapped up the debate, asking the lawyers to come back after having reworked their case with the points discussed that day. Immediately afterwards, Nariman sat down with the Supreme Court's judgment in the Electoral Bonds Scheme case to analyse for THE WEEK the import of the verdict and highlight its main points. The grand old man of Indian law was, till the very end, deeply and actively involved with matters pertaining to the country's legal system. If he was not providing his expertise for court cases, he was writing commentaries on issues related to the Indian legal system. He came out with his final book only a few months back, simply titled 'You Must Know Your Constitution', which looks at all the 395 Articles of the Constitution and the amendments made in it up to July 31, 2023. What Nariman said mattered tremendously. He was heard with great interest, regarded as the voice of sanity, and the points made by him trusted to be the correct assessment of the situation. The veteran jurist had a colossal presence in the field of Indian law and was the most respected voice in the Indian legal system. In recent years, Nariman, who was totally committed to the ideals of secularism and democratic principles, was vocal about majoritarian politics becoming a dominant force and posing a threat to the concepts of tolerance. He was pained at what he felt was a deepening of communal and social divides. He wrote in his last book that super-majoritarianism has created more disparity than unity. In his assessment, coalition governments are better for the country, even if they take longer to arrive at a decision compared to a government with a full majority, because it is possible to place different points of view and ideas on the table. In a rare media interaction, and one of his last, Nariman told THE WEEK, It (super-majoritarianism) has been the hallmark of the major political parties throughout our 75 years. The Congress did it. The BJP is doing the same thing. Keeping the country together is far more important. Unfortunately, we don't have a Gandhi today. In the backdrop of the functioning of the Supreme Court coming in for increasing criticism and a perception forming about the judiciary buckling under pressure from the executive, Nariman wrote a book titled God Save the Hon'ble Supreme Court. The book, which was published in 2018, was a scathing critique of the manner in which the Supreme Court was being run. But he was also not happy with the decision of the four senior-most judges of the court to go public with their grievances. Above all, Nariman's approach to law was guided by his unwavering belief in the Constitution and his complete commitment to the principles that the document espoused. He was completely intolerant towards any discussion on whether the country needed a new Constitution. He believed that the Constitution is the one thing that has held the country together. That discussion should be throttled at the start, Nariman had declared when asked in THE WEEK interview about the talk in certain quarters that the country needs a new Constitution. The voice of the Constitution's biggest champion has fallen silent. But his words will continue to resonate. The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has unveiled a plan to identify and protect shark hotspots in Indian waters, aiming to safeguard the endangered species from targeted fishing activities. Dr. Shoba Joe Kizhakudan, Head of the Finfish Fisheries Division of the CMFRI, highlighted the urgency of this initiative, emphasising the need to enforce spatial and temporal fishing regulations to combat the overexploitation threatening the survival of sharks in Indian waters. During a consultative meeting on the conservation of sharks held in Kochi, Dr. Kizhakudan stressed the vulnerability of sharks, noting that they face challenges in reproducing at a rate that can offset the escalating number of deaths each year. The CMFRI reported a concerning 55% decline in the landings of elasmobranch, a group encompassing sharks, rays, and guitarfish, between 2012 and 2022, underscoring the pressing need for conservation efforts. Director Dr. A Gopalakrishnan emphasised the institute's commitment to understanding the intricate dynamics between fishing activities and other factors impacting shark populations over the next five years. This knowledge, he asserted, will be instrumental in formulating effective conservation, sustainability, and management strategies, ensuring the livelihood security of coastal communities. This pioneering initiative by the CMFRI marks a significant step forward in the protection of endangered shark species, reflecting a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of overfishing and secure the sustainability of marine ecosystems in Indian waters. CMFRI has been at the forefront of elasmobranch research, receiving global recognition for its expertise. Notably, the institute has been designated as a CITES Scientific Authority in India, responsible for conducting non-detrimental finding (NDF) studies on CITES-listed marine species. Dr. Gopalakrishnan revealed that CMFRI's annual landing estimates for 121 species of elasmobranchs in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and its researchers' involvement in IUCN Subject Specialist Groups and CITES panels further underscore its leadership in this critical field. The institute's influence has extended internationally, with the government of Oman seeking technical guidance from CMFRI for their shark and ray research programs, emphasisng the institute's role in advancing conservation efforts on a global scale. After days of negotiations, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) finally reached a consensus to form a new coalition government in Pakistan, which will see Shehbaz Sharif become the Prime Minister again. PPP co-chairman Asif Zardari is slated to become the country's President again. The leaders of both parties announced the decision to form the government at a joint news conference late on Tuesday night. "The PPP and PML-N have achieved the required number, and [now] we are in a position to form the government," Bilawal told reporters. He said former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party-backed candidates and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) failed to achieve a simple majority in Parliament to form government in the Centre. Independent candidates - a majority backed by PTI - won 93 National Assembly seats. We pray the upcoming [coalition] government manages to overcome external and internal problems faced by the country," said Bhutto-Zardari, adding that after the election of the prime minister, the presidential election will follow. "We are thankful to the PML-N for throwing its weight behind PPP candidate Asif Ali Zardari," he added. Shehbaz Sharif, who attended the press conference with Bhutto, asserted that his PML-N now has the required numbers with the PPP to be in a position to form the next government as he thanked the leadership of the two parties for the positive conclusion to the talks. He also stressed on the unity between the two parties, noting that they were well-positioned to form the government at the Centre, The Express Tribune newspaper reported. Sharif also defended their decision to form the government despite not having enough numbers, stating that they asked the PTI to form its government in the Centre but the former ruling party failed to muster up the magic number of 169. He claimed that the PML-N as well as its allied parties were ready to sit on the opposition benches had the PTI decided to form its government. He added that the PPP did not ask for ministries in the federal cabinet. PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari said they wanted to assure the public that this coalition would steer the country of the crises. On the performance of the 16-month-long PDM government and apparent criticism by the PPP in this regard, the PML-N president said they were sitting here because of the "success of the PDM set-up". Kolkata, Feb 21 (PTI) Motilal Oswal Alternates (MO Alts), the alternative investments arm of Motilal Oswal Financial Services, on Wednesday said it has successfully closed the first tranche of its sixth real estate fund, India Realty Excellence Fund VI (IREF VI) and has secured commitments of approximately Rs 1,250 crore in this first close. The company said it is a significant milestone for MO Alts, achieving the largest and fastest first close for any of their real estate funds to date. The fund will scout for opportunities in real estate in Kolkata and seven other top cities of India including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Pune, Bangalore and Chennai. IREF VI strategically focuses on early-stage investments, primarily targeting mid-income/affordable residential projects across India's top eight cities. "This successful fundraising, even amidst a buoyant equity market, underscores the unwavering trust our investors have placed in our capabilities," MO Alts, MD & CEO, Vishal Tulsyan said. MO Alts said it boasts a strong track record, having invested in over 150 real estate projects, funding Rs 7,500 crore across 50 developers, and successfully exited over 85 investments with an impressive return exceeding 20 per cent over pre-approval bets. The fund, structured as an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF Category-II) the first close (which is commonly referred to as an initial offer) saw participation from high net-worth individuals, non-resident Indians, and family offices/corporates. With the proposal to quash the Urban Land Ceiling Act by the West Bengal government, the investment opportunities in the state will jump significantly, realtors said. Saurabh Rathi, Co-Head (Real Estate) at MO Alts said, "The Indian real estate market has shown remarkable resilience and growth in recent years. The residential sector is witnessing decadal high demand, and the office market is experiencing strong absorption, nearing pre-pandemic peaks. With indicators suggesting continued momentum, the demand for early-stage capital is increasing significantly." New Delhi (India), February 21: Later this month, an International Recruitment team from Bath Spa is visiting India and Sri Lanka to promote Bath Spa University London (BSUL) and the newly launched Postgraduate Master Courses which are offered at the London Site. The Bath Spa University team is visiting India and Sri Lanka between the 21st and 27th February, covering three cities in India (Delhi, Chandigarh, and Hyderabad) and Colombo in Sri Lanka. The visit underscores Bath Spa University's commitment to fostering educational collaborations with Associates and providing Indian students with access to high-quality education in the UK. Among these engagements, the team will attend the BUILA event at the Delhi British Council on 21st February, where they will meet with the International BUILA team, University Representatives, and Agents. Prospective students and agents attending this event are cordially invited to connect with Bath Spa University's India Office and UK colleagues. Bath Spa University is a public University in Bath, England, in the United Kingdom. Currently the University has almost 10,000 students studying between five campuses in total, including the newly launched London site (BSUL). The University is ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the United Kingdom. Bath Spa University London (BSUL), nestled in Hackney, East London, offers seamless accessibility via London Heathrow Airport and Hoxton and Shoreditch train stations, along with an extensive network of buses and the London underground. Boasting picturesque green spaces and a vibrant cultural scene nearby, the area provides an enriching backdrop for academic and professional endeavours, with abundant networking opportunities in the bustling metropolis of London. The courses offered at BSUL are the MBA Leadership and MA Business and Management. The MA Business and Management degree provides you with a broad introduction to the fundamental principles of business and management in a rapidly changing, increasingly globalised world. Our MBA degree in Leadership develops your talent and potential as a creative, innovative, and enterprising leader as well as your theoretical understanding and professional expertise in strategic management and leadership. (Please note the Bath Spa University also offers a wide variety of Post Graduate and Undergraduate courses at the other campuses.) Bath Spa University London offers flexible study options to accommodate various commitments, allowing students to tailor their schedule. The teaching approach is interactive, practical, and engaging, with a diverse cohort of academic staff offering deep knowledge and industry experience, fostering dynamic peer-to-peer interactions and cross-cultural insights. The visiting dignitaries from Bath Spa University for the Bath Spa University London Launch are: Mr. Ben Hughes - Director of Student Recruitment & Marketing and Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Planning Mr. Mark McGuinness - Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Interim Head of School: Art, Film and Media Mrs. Jiemin Tomita - Head of International Recruitment and Partnerships Ms. Jiemin Tomita, Head of International Recruitment and Partnerships, remarked, "Studying at our London site is not just an educational pursuit; it's a pathway to career excellence. With a dedicated emphasis on employability, we offer students unparalleled access to potential employers and diverse career avenues. Our nurturing academic environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and prime location will equip you with the tools for success." Bath Spa Universitys story first began in 1852, with over 170 years of heritage supporting its proud reputation. The Universitys main campus, Newton Park, has been operating as a teaching facility for over 80 years, with major development in the early 2010s seeing new facilities and academic hubs being opened. Bath Spa University was named the Sunday Times University of the Year for Social Inclusion in 2023, BSU London offers a dynamic and flexible approach to higher education that embraces and empowers the different lived experiences of our students. Roxana Pitaru BSUL student said: Studying at Bath Spa University London gave me the chance to develop myself enormously personally and professionally. The teaching is always engaging while the courses have quality content, and we always have extra support available if needed. Our flexible timetables allow you to fit full-time study around your other commitments by studying two full days a week or three-four evenings a week. Our teaching is interactive, practical, and engaging and youll benefit from the deep knowledge and industry experience of our academic staff. Our students are diverse with a mix of backgrounds, ages, and life experiences, giving you a dynamic peer-to-peer learning experience. Please visit: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/schools/bsu-london/ For more information please contact: Bath Spa University India Office Jagat Patel, Regional Manager +91 9820087199 Ankur Bhadoria, Admissions Officer bsuindia@bathspa.ac.uk +91 9824027473 Bath Spa University UK Office Jiemin Tomita, Head of International Recruitment and Partnerships j.tomita@bathspa.ac.uk International Team international@bathspa.ac.uk +44 (0)1225 875875 (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR MUMBAI, India, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Baccarose, a leading name in the fragrance and beauty distribution industry, is proud to announce the introduction of Alexandre.J, a renowned French luxury perfume brand, to discerning fragrance enthusiasts in India. Alexandre.J stands out as a niche brand that meticulously crafts each fragrance to tell a unique story. With a science of names referencing different fragrances, the brand focuses on developing an olfactive record that captures the essence of luxury, artistry, and creativity. Launched in France in 2012, Alexandre.J takes pride in its 100% Made in France production. The perfumes are meticulously crafted in Honfleur, Normandy, while the oil fabrication takes place in Grasse, the heart of perfumery worldwide. The brand has a global presence in more than 85 countries, showcasing its commitment to selective distribution and reaching passionate perfume enthusiasts worldwide. Commenting on the launch, Kadambari Lakhani, Director, Baccarose Perfumes & Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd. said, "We are thrilled to launch Alexandre.J Perfumes in India, offering a perfect blend of artistry and accessibility in niche perfumery. This collaboration resonates with the increasing demand for luxury fragrances in India. We are confident that Alexandre.J's dedication to quality and personalization will strongly appeal to fragrance enthusiasts across the country. We look forward to enhancing India's olfactory experience by introducing the global standard of elegance and innovation in perfumery." Commenting into entrance in the Indian market, Amelie Jabban, visionary Global Brand Director of Alexandre.J, said "Entering the vibrant and diverse Indian market is an exhilarating moment for Alexandre.J. We bring more than just fragrances to India; we bring an orchestration of creativity, ingenuity, and opulence. Our partnership with Baccarose showcases our unwavering dedication to delivering an unparalleled olfactory experience to the Indian consumer. As we unveil our distinct collections each a unique journey of scent and emotion we invite our customers to embrace the epitome of French luxury perfumery, where every fragrance tells a story of sophistication and creativity." Alexandre.J offers distinct collections - The Collector, Art Deco and Art Nouveau, each reflecting the brand's dedication to artistry, high-quality ingredients, and a wide olfactive range. The Collector Collection: A Tapestry of Alchemy Celebrating the fusion of Oriental desert and French Baroque architecture, "The Collector" Collection unveils 10 Eaux De Parfum, each encased in distinctive aluminum bottles. From the chic elegance of Black Muscs to the captivating warmth of Morning Muscs and the sparkling joy of Rose Oud, this collection is a testament to art, culture, and the olfactive range of emotions. Art Deco Collection: A Glimpse into the Roaring Twenties Honoring the 1920s Art Deco period, the "Art Deco" Collection presents six fragrances, each a journey into opulence. From the powdery elegance of The Majestic Musk to the festive exuberance of The Majestic Jardin, these perfumes, presented in jewelry-like fashion, captivate with high-prized formulations and visual splendor. Art Nouveau Collection: Luxury Redefined as an Art Form In a groundbreaking reinvention, the "Art Nouveau" Collection showcases five fragrances, each a unique expression of luxury as an art form. Handmade glass bottles, inspired by Art Nouveau, house dynamic, uplifting, and delicate scents, creating a harmony between design and aroma. Baccarose is strategically introducing Alexandre.J into the thriving fragrance market of India, aligning with the country's growing appreciation for luxury and artistic expression. With its strong presence in the Indian market, Baccarose is orchestrating an exclusive launch that highlights Alexandre.J's focus on quality, exclusivity, and personalization. This partnership enriches Baccarose's fragrance portfolio, adding the unique and sophisticated offerings of Alexandre.J. The collaboration reinforces Baccarose's position as a leader in the Indian fragrance market, introducing a world of artistry and enhancing sensory experiences. Alexandre.J's addition not only strengthens Baccarose's hold in luxury fragrances but also underscores its commitment to providing Indian consumers access to global standards of elegance and innovation in perfumery. ABOUT ALEXANDRE.J: Launched in France in 2012, Alexandre.J proudly produces its creations in France. Breaking the codes of traditional perfumery, the brand's perfume collections embody the alliance of luxurious packaging and exceptional fragrances. From captivating floral notes to exotic blends, each collection tells a unique olfactive story, inviting individuals to explore and embrace the art of perfumery. For more information, visit: https://www.alexandre-j.com/ About Baccarose: In 1984, Mr. Hemansu Kotecha founded Baccarose and soon began making inroads into the burgeoning Indian beauty industry. With an unparalleled understanding of local customer preferences and a prized operational nous, Baccarose today is a leader in the distribution of international luxury beauty brands in India. The core mission & vision of the company is to be the leading authority in the Indian luxury Beauty market and undisputed partner-of-choice for leading international brands. To build the Luxury Beauty business in India, establish our partner luxury brands as preferred choices for consumers/retailers and bring an international shopping experience to consumers in India. For more information, visit: https://baccarose.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2343320/BaccarosePerfumesBeauty_Product.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 21 (PTI) The government on Wednesday eased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms in the space sector with an aim to attract overseas players and private companies into the segment. The decision was taken at the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Now, the satellite sub-sector has been divided into three different activities with defined limits for foreign investment in each such sector, according to an official statement. Presently, FDI in the space sector is allowed up to 100 per cent in the area of satellite establishment and operations through government route only. By changing the current policy, the government has allowed up to 74 per cent FDI under automatic route in satellites-manufacturing and operation, satellite data products, and ground and user segments. Beyond this limit, government approval will be required in these areas for FDI, it said. Up to 49 per cent FDI is allowed through the automatic route for launch vehicles and associated systems or subsystems, creation of spaceports for launching and receiving spacecraft. Beyond 49 per cent, FDI in these activities would require government approval, it added. Further, up to 100 per cent overseas investments are permitted under automatic route for manufacturing of components and systems/sub-systems for satellites, ground and user segments. This increased private sector participation would help to generate employment, enable modern technology absorption and make the sector self-reliant. It is expected to integrate Indian companies into global value chains. Through the decision, the government seeks to liberalise the FDI policy provisions in the space sector by prescribing easy entry routes and providing clarity for overseas investments in satellites, launch vehicles and associated systems or subsystems, creation of spaceports for launching and receiving spacecraft and manufacturing of space-related components and systems. With this, companies will be able to set up their manufacturing facilities within the country, duly encouraging Make In India initiatives of the government. Washington, Feb 21 (PTI) Suhas Subramanyam, an Indian-American Senator in the US state of Virginia, is running for the US House of Representatives to take on a dysfunctional Congress and extremism. Subramanyam, 37, the first Indian-American, South-Asian, and Hindu to ever be elected to the Virginia General Assembly in 2019 and to the Virginia State Senate in 2023, is now running for US House of Representatives from the 10th Congressional District of Virginia, which has a sizable Indian-American population. The decision of Subramanyam came after the current occupant Democrat Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton announced that she would not be running for the seat. Subramanyam was born in Houston to Indian-American parents who migrated to the US from Bengaluru. In 2105, he was appointed by then-President Barack Obama to serve as a White House technology policy advisor. I worked really well though with our current congresswoman, Jennifer Wexton. She was always a mentor to me, and so I felt like we were in good hands with her. But she's retiring and I felt like this was an opportunity, not for me, but really for my community to have someone who's one phone call away who's accessible, who will go the extra mile to solve their issues, he said. One of my favourite parts of being an elected office is the constituent services and being there for people on their hardest days. As a member of Congress, I can really empower people to a different level. And then I also really want to take on the dysfunction in Washington and the extremism, said Subramanyam. Subramanyam said that he wants to do progressive work for the US. I think we've seen government shutdowns and the threats of them hurt my community particularly. We have also seen key confirmations upheld, and that really hurts us as a country and on the global stage as well. I am looking forward to this challenge. "I think it's a challenge that I have taken on these types of tough challenges in the past and won, and it's something that I want to take on as well with the new generation of leadership, he said. Subramanyam is a well-known face in the 10th Congressional District as he has been elected to the State legislature since 2019. As per the latest data from the Federal Election Commission, he raised 255,000 from individual contributions in the last quarter till December 31, 2023. Daniel Helmer is leading the group in Democratic primaries in terms of fundraising of USD 595,00 in the same quarter. Subramanyam argues that he is running for Congress for the better future of America. The Congress is here to solve problems and to be proactive about the future. We should not be legislating not just for the next two years, but for the next 20 or 30 years. I want my kids, I've got two girls, that are two and three. I want them to live in a better country and in a better world than what we found, he said. Right now, there's a lot of short-termism, and there's a lot of, frankly, selfishness when it comes to the way we're legislating. What I want to see as a Congress, is one, funding our budgets regularly and without fail, and that means no threats of government shutdowns or automatic funding of government. We need to put that in our rules," he said. Subramanyam said that the second thing he wants to do is to make sure that people are having a good interaction with their government and good action with our community. And third, there's just some people in Congress right now who care more about their tweets and their likes on social media than about getting things done. What we need to do is take away the power that they currently have, which seems to be a lot right now, especially under this leadership in Congress and put in the hands of people who actually want to get things done, who actually want to solve problems, and who actually want to fix this dysfunction that I'm talking about," he said. Suhas said his parents come from Southern India. My parents are from Bengaluru and Chennai and spent some time in Secunderabad as well. They came over here because they wanted to just start a new life here. They had family here, and they felt like in India things were a little bit dysfunctional there as well. They wanted to be physicians, and you can make a great life in America as a physician, he said. So, they came here to do their schooling. Dulles Airport here, and our district was their Ellis Island. It's where they arrived and were greeted. It was a new place. They didn't have much. Through education, through hard work and through commitment to service and to family, we've persevered through hard times, and we've been successful, he said. Washington, Feb 21 (PTI) Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has figured in the list of 50 most powerful Chicagoans in the windy citys influential Chicago magazine. Ranked at 24th, Krishnamoorthi is the highest-ranked individual of South Asian descent. The list is topped by Illinois Governor J B Pritzker followed by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Placing him at 24th rank, Chicago Magazine describes him as the most powerful South Asian in the Greater Chicago Area. The magazine also says that he is planning to run for the US Senate in 2026. Krishnamoorthi, 50, who represents the northwest suburbs and used his former perch as chairman of a House Oversight subcommittee to investigate everything from the Washington Commanders to the baby formula shortage, has USD 14.4 million in his campaign coffers more than three times as much as any other congressional representative from Illinois, and the third-highest total in the entire Congress, it said. Raja is a huge player across the country, says a political consultant. In 2022, Krishnamoorthi donated USD 460,000 to Democratic candidates and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, but he is said to be stockpiling his campaign cash to run for the Senate in 2026 if Dick Durbin retires, the magazine reported. Mesquite, Feb 21 (AP) At a bustling construction site outside of Dallas, there are hopes that Congress can finally pass nearly USD 95 billion in foreign aid including funding for Ukraine because factory jobs in the United States depend on that money. Aerospace and defense company General Dynamics' new factory in the Dallas suburb of Mesquite is expected to initially employ 150 people to produce munitions. Set to open in June, construction is nearing completion, with newly planted trees and shrubs already in place at the complex overlooking one of the area's busiest interstates. We want to increase our wages and increase our skill levels and job opportunities, said Kim Buttram, Mesquite's director of economic development, who added that the factory is expected to have over 300 jobs when it's at full production. As President Joe Biden pushes House Republicans to pass needed aid, he wants voters to understand that nearly two-thirds or nearly USD 40 billion of the money for Ukraine would actually go to US factories spread out across the country including plants in Lima, Ohio and Scranton, Pennsylvania as well as Mesquite. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has refused to put the bill up for a vote on the House floor on the premise that it does not meet the needs of the American public. The supplemental spending measure contains a total of USD 95 billion in foreign aid, including money for Ukraine, Israel and other countries. Of the USD 60.7 billion for Ukraine, USD 38.8 billion would go to US factories that make missiles, munitions and other gear, according to figures provided to The Associated Press by the Biden administration. While this bill sends military equipment to Ukraine, Biden said Tuesday, it spends the money right here in the United States of America in places like Arizona, where the Patriot missiles are built; and Alabama, where the Javelin missiles are built; and Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas, where artillery shells are made. The president's argument challenges criticism by some Republican lawmakers that the federal government should be spending more money at home instead of supporting overseas wars. In this case, most of the money goes to US companies and workers, funding assembly lines to refill depleted stockpiles of weapons and gear that have already gone to Ukraine. The Democratic president is openly channeling Franklin Delano Roosevelt and resurrecting the World War II-era concept that America is the arsenal of democracy. His sales pitch to the public is that his foreign policy is also about jobs for the US middle class. But Biden is brushing up against opposition from former President Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner who ascended to the White House in 2016 on the promise of reviving US manufacturing. Trump opposes the US package to help Ukraine and has openly expressed a willingness to let Russia invade NATO allies who do not spend enough of their own budgets on defense. Many Republicans in Congress have taken their lead from Trump, with the party's right flank increasingly questioning the value of US interventions around the world and long-standing alliances built in the aftermath of World War II. Johnson has refused to bring the foreign aid bill up for a vote because it also lacks provisions to secure the US southern border where immigrants are crossing illegally. But he previously rejected a bipartisan Senate bill that did provide funding to address immigration challenges, saying that the border measures would not solve the problem in the way that he wanted. The Republican-led House will not be jammed or forced into passing a foreign aid bill that was opposed by most Republican senators, Johnson said at a news conference last week. It's time for Washington to start showing some love to Americans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, in contrast, has repeatedly implored his colleagues to understand that the funds from the package are for historic investments right here in America. This is about rebuilding the arsenal of democracy, McConnell, R-Kentucky, said in a floor speech during the long days of debate, and demonstrating to our allies and adversaries alike that we're serious about exercising American strength. The Mesquite factory sits in the congressional district of Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, who told Fox Business News in a December interview that he couldn't tell his constituents that he voted for money for Ukraine without also getting money to secure the US southern border. I will never support any funding for Ukraine that does not include major measures of security at our own southern border, said Gooden. His office did not respond to questions sent over email from The Associated Press for this story. US factories shipped out nearly USD 162 billion worth of military goods last year, according to the Census Bureau. The shipments increased 8.1 per cent compared to 2022. The supplemental funding could further drive factory production upward this year. But defense manufacturing can be volatile. Spending declined between 2010 and 2015. It then grew over the next four years, only to dip in 2021 and then climb again after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Biden administration has made an increase in the manufacturing capacity of defense contractors a priority, with a plan to increase the production of 155-millimeter artillery shells six-fold over three years. The supplemental bill stalled in the House would expand these efforts by making new investments in production lines for weapons and revitalizing the industrial base for submarine production, according to the White House. But on Friday, after news of the death of imprisoned Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, Biden again pushed House Republicans to pass aid to Ukraine and take a stand against Russian leader Vladimir Putin. But the House had gone into recess on Thursday afternoon. It's about time they step up don't you think? instead of going on a two-week vacation, Biden said. What are they thinking? My God, this is bizarre.(AP) RUP RUP DAMASCUS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Israel conducted its second missile attack on areas southwest of the Syrian capital of Damascus within hours on Wednesday, according to reports from a war monitor and local media. The war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Israel targeted sites belonging to Iranian militias in the areas, adding there is currently no information regarding any human or material losses as a result of the attack. Additionally, rocket shells launched by Israeli forces landed in Beit Jinn in the western countryside of Damascus, near the border with the occupied Golan Heights, according to the Britain-based watchdog group. The Sham FM radio, a pro-government media in Syria, said that air defenses intercepted missiles in the southern and southwestern countryside of Damascus. Furthermore, Israeli rocket fire was also reported in Mount al-Sheikh of southern Syria. Eyewitnesses in the Mazzeh neighborhood west of Damascus told Xinhua that a thundering sound similar to that of an earthquake was heard when the Israeli strike occurred. Earlier on Wednesday, an Israeli missile attack hit a residential building in the Kafar Sousah neighborhood in Damascus, resulting in the deaths of two civilians, as confirmed by the Syrian Defense Ministry. The observatory suggested that the attack in Kafar Sousah was an assassination attempt targeting individuals associated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). While Israel has frequently carried out missile strikes on Syrian targets, hitting residential areas is unusual and indicates an assassination attempt. This incident follows a similar attack on Jan. 20, during which five IRGC officers were killed in a missile strike on the Western Mazzeh Villas neighborhood in Damascus. Islamabad, Feb 21 (PTI) Pakistans Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed as a publicity stunt a petition seeking new elections over alleged irregularities in the February 8 polls, clearing the way for the formation of a coalition government to end the political uncertainty in the country. The apex court also imposed a fine on the petitioner, a former army officer, over his failure to appear before the court. Retired Brigadier Ali Khan last week urged the apex court to order new elections within 30 days to be held under the direct supervision and oversight of the judiciary to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability. He had also sought a stay order to stop the formation of a new government till the case was decided. However, the petitioner failed to attend two consecutive hearings. Subsequently, a three-member bench led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, and comprising of Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali, disposed of the plea and imposed a fine of Pakistani Rs 500,000 on the petitioner after being informed that a notice had been served to him appear in the court. Earlier, the court was informed that Ali was a former Brigadier who had been tried in a court martial in 2012 and dismissed from service. The chief justice read aloud an email sent to the top court by the petitioner, in which he had stated that he was abroad and had requested to withdraw his petition. Calling it a publicity stunt, CJP Isa observed that Brig (retd) Ali Khan had stated he could not appear before the court as he was in Bahrain. He is a strange person; people buy a return ticket due to it being cheaper but he booked a one-way ticket. It seems that Ali Khan had done a publicity stunt by filing a petition before the Supreme Court, the CJP was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Meanwhile, in a breakthrough that could end the political uncertainty in Pakistan, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party have agreed on a power-sharing deal to form a new coalition government after intense negotiations following a fractured poll verdict. In a joint news conference late Tuesday night at Zardari House here, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shehbaz Sharif, 72, will assume the role of the prime minister once again. Similarly, PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari, 68, will be the joint candidate for the presidents office. The February 8 elections have been controversial with several serious allegations of widespread rigging to alter the results. A Pakistan high court on Monday suspended the result of three constituencies in the federal capital after the success of the three candidates was challenged. The three losing candidates, who were backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, had petitioned in the Islamabad High Court, alleging manipulation of the results. On February 17, former Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha alleged that the chief election commissioner and the chief justice were involved in poll-rigging in the recent election as he resigned from his post, taking the "responsibility for all this wrongdoing". Madrid, Feb 21 (AP) Hundreds of farmers drove their tractors into central Madrid on Wednesday as part of ongoing protests against European Union and local farming policies and to demand measures to alleviate production cost hikes. The protest, the biggest to take place in the Spanish capital after more than two weeks of daily protests across the country, will include a rally outside the Agriculture Ministry headquarters. Many of the tractors flew Spanish flags and some farmers carried banners reading, There is no life without farming, and "Farmers in Extinction. It is impossible to live from the rural industry, which is what we want, to live from our work. That is all we ask for, Silvia Ruiz, 46, a livestock farmer from the north-central area of Burgos told The Associated Press. The Union of Unions organising group said they were bringing 500 tractors and many more farmers on buses. Many of the tractors may have to stay outside of the city because of government restrictions. 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. Spain and the European Commission, the EU's executive arm, have made some concessions in recent weeks but farmers say they are insufficient. 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. In neighbouring France, the EU's largest agricultural producer, the government of President Emmanuel Macron is also under intense pressure from angry farmers who held major demonstrations last month and have since continued with more scattered protests to push for better pay and other assistance. Macron is expected to attend the opening of France's major annual agricultural fair this weekend in Paris. Ahead of that test, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal sought Wednesday to convince the agricultural sector that he is speeding ahead with promised efforts to make farming more lucrative and simpler. In recent weeks, across Europe, farmers have made themselves heard with a cry of anger, a cry that comes from deep down, he said. Behind this cry is, most of all, a call for action. Attal promised draft legislation by the summer to strengthen the hand of French farmers in commercial negotiations with distributors over prices for their produce. He also promised measures to make it easier and cheaper for farmers to hire seasonal workers, including from abroad. Attal also said his government is working to protect French farmers against imports from Ukraine of chicken, eggs, sugar and cereals. Solidarity with Ukraine is obviously essential, but it cannot be to the detriment of our farmers, the prime minister said. (AP) GSP London, Feb 21 (AP) WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should face espionage charges in the United States because he put innocent lives at risk and went beyond journalism in his bid to solicit, steal and indiscriminately publish classified US government documents, lawyers for the American government argued on Wednesday. The lawyers spoke before Britain's High Court in response to a last-ditch bid by Assange's defence to stop his extradition from the United Kingdom to the US. Assange's lawyers are asking the High Court to grant him a new appeal his last legal roll of the dice in the long-running legal saga that has kept him in a British high-security prison for the past five years. The 52-year-old Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his website's publication of a huge trove of classified US documents almost 15 years ago. American prosecutors allege Assange encouraged and helped US Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks later published, putting lives at risk. Lawyer Clair Dobbin told the High Court on Wednesday that Assange damaged US security and intelligence services and created a grave and imminent risk by releasing the hundreds of thousands of documents risks that could harm and lead to the arbitrary detention of innocent people, many of whom lived in war zones or under repressive regimes. Dobbin added that in encouraging Manning and others to hack into government computers and steal from them, Assange was going a very considerable way beyond a journalist gathering information. Assange was not someone who has just set up an online box to which people can provide classified information, she said. The allegations are that he sought to encourage theft and hacking that would benefit WikiLeaks. Assange's supporters maintain he is a secrecy-busting journalist who exposed US military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have long argued that the prosecution is politically motivated and he won't get a fair trial in the US. Assange's lawyers argued on the first day of the hearing on Tuesday that American authorities are seeking to punish Assange for WikiLeaks' exposure of criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale, including torture and killings. Lawyer Edward Fitzgerald said Assange may suffer a flagrant denial of justice if he is sent to the US. Dobbin rejected claims that the charges are a tool of oppression to punish Assange for his political opinions. She said the prosecution is based on law and evidence, and has remained consistent despite the changes of government in the US during the course of the legal battle. She added that it was not necessary for WikiLeaks to publish sensitive material, including names of those who could be endangered. Media outlets that went through the process of redacting the documents before publishing them are not being prosecuted, she said. Assange's lawyers say he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence is likely to be much shorter. Assange was absent from court on Wednesday and Tuesday because he is unwell, WikiLeaks said. Stella Assange, his wife, said Julian had wanted to attend, but was not in good condition. Assange's family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and the last five years in the high-security prison on the outskirts of the British capital. Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022 said last week that his health has deteriorated during years of confinement and if he's extradited, he will die. Julian is a political prisoner and he has to be released, she told reporters. Supporters holding Free Julian Assange signs and chanting there is only one decision no extradition held a noisy protest outside the neo-Gothic High Court building for a second day on Wednesday. Assange's legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A UK district court judge rejected the U.S. extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh US prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the US about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. If judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition though supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the US before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. The two justices could deliver a verdict at the end of the hearing on Wednesday, but they're more likely to take several weeks to consider their decision. (AP) GRS GRS Islamabad, Feb 21 (PTI) The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz on Wednesday held talks with smaller parties as part of its efforts to form a coalition government led by party president Shehbaz Sharif at the Centre. Following a power-sharing deal with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), the PML-N representatives held meetings with the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Istekam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) to finalize plans for the coalition government. Senior leaders, including Kamran Tessori, Mustafa Kamal, and Dr Farooq Sattar, from MQM-P and Ishaq Dar, Ayaz Sadiq, Azam Nazir Tarar and Muhammad Ahmed Khan from PML-N were present in the talks held in Islamabad, according to a statement issued by the PML-N. The Express Tribune newspaper reported that the PML-N and MQM-P agreed to collaborate within the government framework. The agreement underscores a commitment to foster reconciliation and cooperation, with a focus on enhancing political, democratic, and economic stability across the nation. Central to their discussions was the imperative of ensuring equitable distribution of resources and powers, laying the groundwork for future deliberations on critical issues such as the protection of urban rights in Sindh, particularly in Karachi, and the restoration of the port city's economic prominence. Simultaneously, a meeting between the coordination committees of PML-N and BAP convened, affirming their dedication to addressing the challenges confronting Balochistan and the federation, according to another statement. Representatives from both parties, including Ishaq Dar, Ayaz Sadiq, Azam Nazir Tarar, and Malik Ahmad Khan from PML-N, alongside Khalid Magsi, Sadiq Sanjrani, and Kauda Babar from BAP, reiterated their commitment to establishing robust democratic governments at federal and provincial levels. A meeting of the PML-N and IPP leaders was held in Islamabad where IPP president Aleem Khan was present while Ishaq Dar led the PML-N team. Khan assured full and unconditional support to the PML-N at the federal and provincial levels, according to a separate statement. Separately, delegates from the PML-N and JUI-F met for talks regarding government formation in the Balochistan province. According to sources, JUI-F sought support to form a government but the PML-N refused to oblige by saying that it had already agreed with the PPP for making a coalition government in Balochistan. However, the PML-N and the JUI-F in a statement underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts towards the prosperity of Balochistan, affirming their cooperation towards this shared goal. Both MQM-P and BAP have already pledged support for the coalition government of the PML-N with Shehbaz Sharif as the prime minister. However, the JUI-F refused to become part of the government at the federal level. London, Feb 21 (AP) WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should face espionage charges in the United States because he put innocent lives at risk and went beyond journalism in his bid to solicit, steal and indiscriminately publish classified US government documents, lawyers for the American government argued Wednesday. The lawyers spoke before Britain's High Court in response to a last-ditch bid by Assange's defence to stop his extradition from the United Kingdom to the US. Assange's lawyers are asking the High Court to grant him a new appeal his last roll of the legal dice in the saga that has kept him in a British high-security prison for the past five years. The judges overseeing the case reserved their decision at the end of the two-day hearing, and a ruling on Assange's future is not expected until March at the earliest. The 52-year-old Australian has been indicted on 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse over his website's publication of a trove of classified US documents almost 15 years ago. American prosecutors allege Assange encouraged and helped US Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning steal diplomatic cables and military files that WikiLeaks published, putting lives at risk. Lawyer Clair Dobbin told the High Court that Assange damaged US security and intelligence services and created a grave and imminent risk by releasing the hundreds of thousands of documents risks that could harm and lead to the arbitrary detention of innocent people, many of whom lived in war zones or under repressive regimes. Dobbin added that in encouraging Manning and others to hack into government computers and steal from them, Assange was going a very considerable way beyond a journalist gathering information. Assange was not someone who has just set up an online box to which people can provide classified information, she said. The allegations are that he sought to encourage theft and hacking that would benefit WikiLeaks. Assange's supporters maintain he is a secrecy-busting journalist who exposed US military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have long argued that the prosecution is politically motivated and he won't get a fair trial in the US. Assange's lawyers argued on the first day of the hearing on Tuesday that American authorities are seeking to punish him for WikiLeaks' exposure of criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale, including torture and killings. Lawyer Edward Fitzgerald said Assange may suffer a flagrant denial of justice if he is sent to the US. Dobbin rejected claims that the charges are a tool of oppression to punish Assange for his political opinions. She said the prosecution is based on law and evidence, and has remained consistent despite the changes of government in the US during the legal battle. She added that the First Amendment does not confer immunity on journalists who break the law. Media outlets that went through the process of redacting the documents before publishing them are not being prosecuted, she said. Assange's lawyers say he could face up to 175 years in prison if convicted, though American authorities have said the sentence is likely to be much shorter. Assange was absent from court on Wednesday and Tuesday because he is unwell, WikiLeaks said. Stella Assange, his wife, said he had wanted to attend, but was not in good condition. Assange's family and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles, including seven years in self-exile in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Stella Assange, who married the WikiLeaks founder in prison in 2022, said last week that his health has deteriorated during years of confinement and if he's extradited, he will die. Julian is a political prisoner and he has to be released, she told reporters. They're putting Julian into the hands of the country and of the people who plotted his assassination," she added, referring to claims by Assange's lawyers that he was a target of a CIA plot to kidnap or kill him while he was in the Ecuadorian Embassy. A judge previously dismissed the claims. Supporters holding Free Julian Assange signs and chanting there is only one decision no extradition protested outside the High Court building for a second day. Assange's legal troubles began in 2010, when he was arrested in London at the request of Sweden, which wanted to question him about allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. In 2012, Assange jumped bail and sought refuge inside the Ecuadorian Embassy. The relationship between Assange and his hosts eventually soured, and he was evicted from the embassy in April 2019. British police immediately arrested and imprisoned him for breaching bail in 2012. Sweden dropped the sex crimes investigations in November 2019 because so much time had elapsed. A UK district court judge rejected the US extradition request in 2021 on the grounds that Assange was likely to kill himself if held under harsh US prison conditions. Higher courts overturned that decision after getting assurances from the US about his treatment. The British government signed an extradition order in June 2022. Meanwhile, the Australian parliament last week called for Assange to be allowed to return to his homeland. Andrew Wilkie, an Australian lawmaker who attended the hearing, said he hoped that sent a strong message to the UK and US governments to end the legal fight. This has gone on long enough, he said. If judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition though supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the US before that happens, because the British government has already signed an extradition order. (AP) SCY SCY Mumbai, Feb 21 (PTI) A 31-year-old man allegedly stabbed his 22-year-old male colleague to death before hanging himself at a garment unit in Mumbai in the early hours of Wednesday, police said. Prima facie, an argument between them on some issue led to the crime. The incident came to light this morning after the owner of the garment unit, located in Sakinaka area, found the door locked from inside, a police official said. "The owner asked a staffer to enter the unit by climbing from an adjacent shop. He spotted the body of Saddam Hussain Mohammed Ahmed Shaikh hanging on the mezzanine floor," he said. The owner then called the police. "Police used a cutter to break open the door to gain entry. The body of another employee, identified as Mohammed Ayyaz Nayab Ahmed Shaikh, was found lying with injuries," the official said. Prima facie, Saddam Hussain stabbed Mohammed Ayyaz with a pair of scissors in the throat, stomach and chest, before hanging himself, he said. A case under Indian Penal Code sections for murder and accidental death has been registered and further investigation is underway. Kolkata, Feb 21 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that deactivating Aadhaar cards is a political game and asserted that her government has stopped that conspiracy of the central government. Addressing a programme organised on the occasion International Mother Language Day in Kolkata, she claimed that Aadhaar cards of the people belonging to the Matua community were deactivated. Deactivating Aadhaar cards was a political game, a vote bank game. We have stopped the conspiracy behind Aadhaar card deactivation, Banerjee said. Earlier this week, she announced plans to provide alternative identification cards to the affected people. Kolkata, Feb 21 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is carrying out raids and search operations at multiple locations in the city in connection with a fake call centre scam, a senior officer said on Wednesday. The raids and searches targeted the residences and offices of associates of the owner of Met Technologies Private Limited in the Beniapukur and Baguihati areas, he added. "We are trying to find out where was the money was siphoned to and what roles were played by these people. It seems that several crores of funds were illegally transferred abroad. Hawala connection cannot be ruled out," the ED officer told PTI. According to the agency, the state CID had arrested the owner of the firm in September last year on charges of stealing around Rs 1,000 crore from foreign and Indian nationals through his fake call centre which he had opened in 2005. While in CID custody, the accused tried to destroy evidence by calling some associates, the ED officer claimed. New Delhi, Feb 21 (PTI) India is an important ally in pursuit of global peace and security and bolstering partnership with it should be the cornerstone of Europe's foreign policy, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Wednesday. In an address at the inaugural session of the Raisina Dialogue, Mitsotakis described the conflict in Ukraine as much more than a "local war on European soil" and that it is a "brutal challenge" to international stability and the rules-based order that India has supported. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, foreign ministers from a number of countries and a galaxy of strategic affairs experts and academicians attended the session. When it comes to shaping global debates and addressing great challenges, India is now often regarded, and rightly so, as a consensus builder and a voice of reason in an increasingly polarised world, the Greek prime minister said. "Today, India is a great power on the world stage and an important ally in pursuit of peace and security -- a rising force at the heart of G20 and a leading player in the fight against climate change," said Mitsotakis, the chief guest at the Raisina Dialogue. "Strengthening our partnership with India should be the cornerstone of Europe's foreign policy and this is certainly true for my country," he said. Highlighting the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), Mitsotakis said Greece is sitting right at the centre of it. "We are your natural doorstep to Europe and beyond," he said, calling the IMEC as a "peace project". "The war in Gaza and the turmoil in the Middle-East are undoubtedly destabilising but it has not undermined the profound and powerful logic behind the IMEC," he said, noting that the stakeholders in the project must work tirelessly to implement the project. "The IMEC is a peace project which can bring peace and prosperity," Mitsotakis said. On Ukraine, the Greek leader said it is not a local war on European soil. "Ukraine is much more than a local war on European soil. It is a brutal challenge to international stability and the international rules-based order that India has supported and has every interest in maintaining it," he said. "We all have a responsibility to use the power we have on the international stage and none of us can afford to sit on the sidelines," he said. "I am convinced on Ukraine, India has an important role to play. It has a voice that should be heard. Our common humanity and interconnectedness are inescapable...the Hindu scriptures put it so powerfully that the World is One Family," Mitsotakis said. Delving into major geopolitical challenges, he said Indo-Pacific is a major area of focus for the European Union. The Greek leader also talked about challenges facing democracies and democratic values. Society functions best when all its citizens are equal and have the right to share in the running of the state, he said. "We must, if necessary, own up to our mistakes, but above all we must listen to each other with mutual respect and without preaching or exhibiting any sense of moral superiority," he said. Democracy can work best if all our citizens have the information they need to make informed decisions in the ballot boxes, he said. On India-Greece ties, Mitsotakis said good progress has been made. "We are at an unique moment of mutually beneficial opportunities -- one in which Greece, given its geographic, cultural and strategic proximity, can act as an interlocutor between India and Europe and even between Global North and Global South as well as between East and West," he said. The Raisina Dialogue is India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-strategy. The theme of the three-day conference is "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create". Shimla, Feb 21 (PTI) The two-decade long legal battle between East India Hotels (EIH) of the Oberoi Group and the Himachal government over Wildflower Hall Luxury Hotel ended with the Supreme Court upholding the order of Himachal Pradesh High Court and directing EIH to vacate and hand over the possession of the hotel to the state government by March 2025. Hailing the verdict, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday expressed satisfaction over the apex court's verdict, a statement issued here said. Sukhu attributed the "favourable" decision to the meticulous efforts of the state government in effective pleading of the case by engaging renowned lawyer Mukul Rohatgi. "The outcome of this verdict reflects the government's steadfast dedication to protect the interests of Himachal," he said. The Oberoi Group had held possession of the prestigious property near Mashobra, Shimla for the last several years. Now the Supreme Court has ordered them to vacate it within a year, he said. A single bench of Himachal High Court consisting of Justice Satyen Vaidya had passed orders on November 17, 2023, permitting the state government to take over the property. The government immediately took control of the hotel. However, the high court later stayed its order after EIH filed an appeal and directed the government not to interfere in the day-to-day function of the hotel. The EIH filed a review petition against the order which was rejected by the high court on January 5, 2024 with directions to vacate the property within two months. The Supreme Court upheld the judgment of the high court and asked the EIH to surrender the possession to the government within a year by March 2025. WELLINGTON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Kiwifruit producer Zespri on Wednesday released its final forecast for the 2023/24 season with record per tray returns forecast for Green, Organic Green, SunGold and RubyRed Kiwifruit. The significant effort undertaken by the industry to lift fruit quality and reduce quality costs had been a key factor in the improved returns, along with strong consumer demand for Zespri Kiwifruit, said Zespri CEO Dan Mathieson. Around 193 million trays are expected to be shipped in 2024/25, according to Zespri. Mathieson said they are looking forward to seeing improved per-hectare returns for growers in the coming season, with the February crop estimate showing a strong improvement in expected yields. New Delhi, Feb 21 (PTI) The strategic partnership between India and Greece is of "particular" importance and further expansion of their overall ties with a focus on economic engagement is being explored, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Wednesday. Mitsotakis is on a two-day visit to India. It is the first visit to India by a head of state of Greece in 15 years. "For Greece, the strategic partnership between our two countries is of particular importance and we will have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics including on strategic partnership, and fostering our economic engagement," he told reporters. Mitsotakis was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan ahead of his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the morning, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on the Greek prime minister. "Delighted to call on Prime Minister @kmitsotakis of Greece today. Valued his commitment to enhancing India-Greece ties. Look forward to the strengthening of our strategic partnership," Jaishankar posted on 'X'. The Greek prime minister began his India visit this morning by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. India-Greece relations were elevated to a 'strategic partnership' during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Greece in August last year. PM Mitsotakis will be the chief guest and keynote speaker at the Raisina Dialogue in the national capital this evening. "Prime Minister Mitsotakis' visit is expected to further strengthen and deepen the strategic partnership between India and Greece," the Ministry of External Affairs said last week. Chandigarh, Feb 21 (PTI) The Haryana Assembly on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution applauding the construction of Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar moved the official resolution, which was supported by BJP ally Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) and main opposition Congress. Khattar touched upon the struggle linked to the construction of the Ram temple and said spirit of Lord Ram prevails in every corner of the country. The BJP members also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the successful consecration ceremony at the new Ram temple in Ayodhya. Home Minister Anil Vij said, "We are fortunate that in our lifetime Lord Ram temple has been constructed. Many agitations were held in the past... During one such agitation, I was arrested in Lucknow and jailed for 15 days in Unnao." Vij also credited the construction of the Ram temple to Prime Minister Modi and said it is because of his able leadership that a grand temple was built after court decision. Supporting the resolution, Leader of Opposition and Congress member Bhupinder Singh Hooda said Lord Ram belongs to everyone. Congress members Raghuvir Singh Kadian, Neeraj Sharma, B B Batra, Kiran Choudhary and Chiranjeevi Rao also supported the resolution. JJP's Ram Kumar Guatam said the opposition should thank Prime Minister Modi for his efforts on Ram temple. Another senior JJP leader Ishwar Singh also supported the resolution. Congress' Kiran Choudhary said, "We support the resolution. 'Ram hamare kan kan mein hai, aur woh sari jagah virajmaan hai'," she said. Independent MLA Balraj Kundu said, "I support the resolution from the core of my heart." The BJP members said the construction of a grand temple of Lord Shri Ram at his birthplace in Ayodhya is a historic and glorious achievement for the country. The BJP MLAs raised "Jai Shri Ram" slogans in the House which were reciprocated by several Congress members. Kota (Rajasthan), Feb 20 (PTI) A woman arrested in connection with a Rs 4-crore cyber fraud escaped from police custody while she was being taken to Pune from Haryana in a train, officials said on Tuesday. The incident took place in the early hours of Sunday. The accused, Saniya (24) alias Gudiya alias Sofia Siddique, was arrested from her home in Haryana's Faridabad on February 17, Government Railway Police (GRP) said. An FIR was registered against Saniya in Pune in connection with a cyber fraud of Rs 4 crore. A team of Pune police comprising one woman constable and four male constables had arrested her and was taking her to Pune by Duronto Express, they said. The accused somehow managed to free her hands from handcuffs, ditched the constables and fled from custody around 4:10 am on Sunday, they added. The Pune police team realised that the woman had escaped when the train reached Ratlam station. The team searched for the woman and based on CCTV footage, it reached Kota, where a complaint was lodged in the matter on Monday, the officials said. Efforts are being made to trace the woman, said Manoj Soni, Circle Inspector at GRP police station, Kota. Initial investigation revealed that she stayed at a lodge on Mala Road here for a few hours before leaving, he said. Westerly, RI (02891) Today Rain showers this morning with some sunshine during the afternoon hours. High near 50F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. The entrance to the Hope Valley Elementary School in Hopkinton, R.I., on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024. The Chariho Regional School District is considering a plan that would close the 90-year-old facility for good while building new schools at the current sites of the Ashaway, Charlestown and Richmond Elementary Schools. Jason Vallee, The Westerly Sun Law enforcement agencies have infiltrated and disrupted LockBit, arresting two people involved with the prolific ransomware syndicate that has extracted $120 million from thousands of victims around the world, British, American and European officials said Tuesday. Britains National Crime Agency, or NCA, said it led an international operation targeting LockBit, which provides ransomware as a service to so-called affiliates who infect victim networks with the computer-crippling malware and negotiate ransoms. The operation resulted in the arrests of two people in Poland and Ukraine and the seizure of 200 cryptocurrency accounts, officials said at a joint news conference. The Justice Department, meanwhile, unsealed indictments against two more people, both Russian nationals. Authorities said they gained comprehensive access to LockBits systems, taking control of infrastructure and obtaining keys to help victims decrypt their data. We have hacked the hackers, Graeme Biggar, the NCAs director general, said at the news conference in London. LockBit has been locked out. Hours before the announcement, the front page of LockBits dark-web leak site was replaced with the words this site is now under control of law enforcement, alongside the flags of the U.K., the U.S. and several other nations. The message said the U.K.s NCA was working in close cooperation with the FBI and the international law enforcement task force, Operation Cronos. The continuing operation also involves agencies from Germany, France, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, among others, including Europol, it said. The announcement brings to five the number of people the U.S. has indicted since the operation began. Three Russians have previously been indicted, with two of those taken into custody, one in Canada and one in the U.S. The rest are still wanted. Today we have turned the tables on these cybercriminals, Philip Sellinger, the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey, said at the news conference. Authorities said they also seized servers that the gang used to organize and transfer victim data, and gained access to nearly 1,000 potential decryption tools. They also obtained the Lockbit platforms source code and a trove of intelligence on people the gang worked with. LockBit, which has been operating since 2019, has been the most prolific ransomware syndicate two years running. The group accounted for 23% of the nearly 4,000 attacks globally last year in which ransomware gangs posted data stolen from victims to extort payment, according to the cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks. The operation is probably the most significant ransomware disruption to date, Analyst Brett Callow of the cybersecurity firm Emsisoft said. And while it will likely spell the end of the brand, such groups routinely rebrand and re-emerge under new names. Over the long term, Callow said, this operation alone will not diminish the volume of ransomware attacks. A rare offensive cyber-operation for the U.K. crime agency, the operation aimed to steal all of LockBits data and then destroy its infrastructure, causing a significant major degradation of the cybercrime threat. LockBit is dominated by Russian speakers and does not attack former Soviet nations. The syndicate provides clients with the platform and the malware to conduct attacks and collect ransoms. Officials suggested that LockBit could have hundreds of members but theres no evidence that a nation state such as Russia is behind the syndicate, Biggar said. These are criminals, he said, although the lack of a Russian crackdown indicates that Moscow tolerates the gangs activity. LockBit has been linked to attacks on the U.K.s Royal Mail, Britains National Health Service, airplane manufacturer Boeing, international law firm Allen and Overy and Chinas biggest bank, ICBC. We have disrupted at every level the criminal operation of the LockBit ransomware group, Europols Deputy Executive Director of Operations Jean-Philippe Lecouffe said at the news conference. Today we have dealt a decisive blow not only to their operation, but also importantly, to their reputation. Cybersecurity experts wondered Tuesday how much detail law enforcement obtained in infiltrating LockBits infrastructure on affiliate negotiations with victims, including who quietly paid ransoms and how much. Influenced by specialty firms they hire to respond to attacks, victims generally resist admitting publicly that ransomware is to blame. Officials told reporters the gang targeted 2,000 victims worldwide, including 200 in the U.K. Biggar said the numbers will be significant underestimates. Last June, U.S. federal agencies released an advisory that attributed about 1,700 ransomware attacks in the United States since 2020 to LockBit and said victims included municipal governments, county governments, public higher education and K-12 schools, and emergency services. Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, the two indicted Russians, are accused of deploying LockBit against manufacturing companies in the U.S. and semiconductor businesses worldwide. Kondratyev allegedly used the ransomware against municipal and private targets in Oregon, Puerto Rico and New York and others victims in Singapore, Taiwan, and Lebanon while Sungatov allegedly deployed it against manufacturing, logistics and insurance companies in Minnesota, Indiana, Puerto Rico, Wisconsin, Florida, and New Mexico. Ransomware is the costliest and most disruptive form of cybercrime, crippling local governments, court systems, hospitals and schools as well as businesses. It is difficult to combat as most gangs are based in former Soviet states and out of reach of Western justice. Law enforcement agencies have scored some recent successes against ransomware gangs, most notably the FBIs operation against the Hive syndicate. But the criminals regroup and rebrand. Britains National Cyber Security Centre has previously warned that ransomware remains one of the biggest cyber threats facing the U.K. and urges people and organizations not to pay ransoms if they are targeted. (AP) Hamas terrorists planned to storm an Israeli prison on October 7th and free hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners, the UK-based Arabic newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat revealed on Monday. According to the report, based on sources closely affiliated with Palestinian terror groups, the ambitious plan failed as the terrorists got lost on the way there due to a GPS malfunction, among other reasons. The report cited as saying that Shikma Prison in the southern city of Ashkelon, about 20 kilometers from the Gazan border, was one of the targets of the October 7th assault. The plan to storm the prison was carefully developed, in great detail, a source in the Gaza Strip said. The mission was assigned to one of the first groups of Nukhba terrorists that crossed into Israel on the morning of October 7th 23 elite fighters from Hamas Al Qassam Brigades, supported by dozens of additional terrorists. The terrorists intended to breach the main gate of the prison with RPGS and anti-tank missiles. At the same time, the prisoners inside would riot to distract the security guards. The sources reported that the group actually went towards Ashkelon and crossed the border, from the direction of Kibbutz Yad Mordechai. There, they encountered their first snag a local security squad engaged them in a gun battle and killed a number of cell members. When they continued on their way, their GPS devices malfunctioned, leading them in the wrong direction. Additionally, the terrorist responsible for navigation became disoriented and led them in the wrong direction. The terrorists ended up deviating from their path and returning south towards Netiv HaAsara, where they murdered 22 residents. From there, they headed in the direction of Sderot, where other cells from Gaza had also reached. According to the report, this was one of the main reasons why the battle in Sderot, in which dozens of Israeli police officers and civilians were killed, lasted for almost three days. When Al-Qassam leaders realized that the original group had failed to reach the prison, they instructed four terrorists who took part in the massacre in Kibbutz Zikim, where eight soldiers and 19 civilians were killed, to continue to the prison. However, the terrorists encountered Israeli security forces who fought them off and they were then targeted by air strikes. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Senior Health Ministry officials met on Tuesday with mayors and heads of authorities and described in detail the possible scenario that could ensue in Israel if an all-out war breaks out on the northern front. The main points of the National Emergency Authoritys scenario were published by Kan News on Tuesday evening. According to the report, Israel is preparing for widespread blackouts and power outages in over 60% of the country which will last at least 48 hours. In addition, local power outages are expected that will last up to three weeks. In light of the expected situation, electricity will have to be preserved and every house in Israel may experience two-hour electricity outages between two to three times a day. The director-general of the Health Ministry, Moshe Bar Siman Tov, warned that if everyone does the minimum in such a scenario, we will reach a situation where we will lose the lives of many, many people. The burden on all the organizations in the health system the Kupot Cholim, the hospitals, and evacuation services will be enormous and endless. The main concern of emergency system officials is the possibility of the health system collapsing, chalilah, and the treatment of approximately 35,000 people dependent on ventilators and respiratory support in the event of prolonged power outages. As part of the preparations, the Health Ministry is purchasing thousands of generators that will be distributed to those dependent on ventilators and other machines. The authorities were asked to establish energy and oxygen centers in protected spaces, each of which will have up to 50 charging stations for ventilators and other medical equipment. The goal of establishing the centers is to prevent the health system from collapsing while it is already stretched to the limit. What will happen if this scenario is actualized? How will we deal with it? asked Bar Siman Tov in the discussion, and hastened to reply: It is true that there will be such chaos that no one will notice anything, but we want to save as many lives as possible. Hezbollah has a massive arsenal of missiles and rockets that can reach most of Israel. Additionally, it has constructed an extensive and sophisticated tunnel network over the past 30 years that poses an extremely severe risk to Israeli residents of the north and all of Israel. On Tuesday, the municipality of Rishon LTzion announced its plan to house tens of thousands of city residents in underground shelters in case of a Hezbollah rocket attack on Israel that would result in damage to homes in the city. The municipality said it was preparing parking areas to be used as temporary safe spaces if and when needed. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Israels Knesset on Wednesday overwhelmingly voted against the recognition of a Palestinian state, with 99 members out of its 120 members voting in favor of the decision and only nine opposing. The resolution passed on Wednesday underscores Israels firm stance on the matter, despite growing pressure from the United States. Israel will continue to oppose the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Such recognition following the massacre of October 7 will give a huge reward to terrorism that was unprecedented and will prevent any future peace settlement, the Knesset said in an official statement. The debate leading up to the vote was marked by fiery exchanges among Knesset members. Ahmed Tibi, a member from the Arab Taal party, vociferously supported the establishment of a Palestinian state, declaring, A Palestinian state will be established Ras Ben Amo [Arabic slang for in spite of opposition]. This comment sparked a sharp retort from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who responded, Go to Syria. Terrorist. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude towards the members of the Knesset, including those from the opposition, for their united front in this vote. I dont remember many votes in which the Knesset voted with a majority of 99 out of 120, Netanyahu remarked. The Knesset united against the attempt to dictate to us the establishment of a Palestinian state, a dictate which would not only not bring peace but would endanger the State of Israel. The members of the house are united as the people are united in a way that was never before. The vote today sends a clear message to the international community, he added. Yair Lapid, who leads the opposition, explained his partys support for the proposal, underscoring their opposition to unilateral actions. Addressing the Prime Minister, Lapid still criticized Netanyahus approach, saying, You invented a threat that doesnt exist, and accused him of diverting attention from domestic issues, saying, There is not a single official in the world that offers unilateral recognition of Palestine. You came up with a spin so they wouldnt talk about the you are guilty post signs. All you wanted was for the Knesset not to talk about the fact that you are the head and that you are to blame, in addition to not bringing up the conscription law, which is rightly known as the evasion law, and the budget law. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) GAZA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) warned on Wednesday that food insecurity in the northern Gaza Strip had reached an "extremely critical state" because of the restrictions imposed on the delivery of humanitarian aid. The agency said in a press statement that 51 percent of missions planned by the UNRWA and other humanitarian institutions to deliver aid to and undertake assessments in northern Gaza this year have been denied access by Israeli authorities. The number of trucks entering Gaza is significantly fewer than the target number of 500 trucks per day, with great difficulties in sending supplies through the Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings, it said. UNRWA added that the lives of about 400,000 people were threatened by starvation in the northern Gaza Strip, calling on international institutions to increase their assistance, especially to the areas in the northern part of the enclave. In addition, the media office of the Hamas-run government in Gaza on Tuesday urged the World Food Program (WFP) to reverse its decision to suspend the delivery of food aid in the northern Gaza Strip. The office said in a press statement that it considered the decision tantamount to "sentencing death to 75 percent of a million people and further deteriorates the humanitarian situation exponentially." The WFP said in a statement on social media platform X on Tuesday that it's "pausing the deliveries of life-saving food assistance to northern Gaza until safe conditions are in place for our staff and the people we are trying to reach." The organization said the decision "has not been taken lightly," adding "the safety and security to deliver critical food aid -- and for the people receiving it -- must be ensured." In a world filled with possibilities, are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and change? Rabbi Shmuel Stern, the esteemed leader and head of the Kollel in Beit Shemesh, has arrived in New York for a limited time, offering his profound insights and guidance. To book an appointment call 917-414-0685 Rabbi Shmuel Stern, a righteous scholar, born and raised in Bnei Brak, carries with him a heritage of wisdom passed down from generations of revered scholars. His expertise extends beyond traditional teachings; he delves into the depths of the human psyche, unlocking hidden potentials and talents. Through the ancient wisdom of Jewish tradition, Rabbi Stern illuminates the intricate connection between the hand and the mind. Modern science has confirmed the profound link between the brain and the hand, revealing that each fingerprint unveils a unique neural pattern. This revelation underscores the importance of understanding our innate abilities and predispositions. To book an appointment call 917-414-0685 By unraveling the mysteries encoded within our fingertips, Rabbi Stern helps individuals identify their inherent strengths and talents. Moreover, through careful observation of behavioral patterns, he guides individuals in harnessing acquired skills and strategies developed throughout their lives. From significant life events to personal traumas, Rabbi Stern addresses the discrepancies between ones innate potential and acquired experiences. He believes that by acknowledging and understanding our subconscious, we gain mastery over our lives. To book an appointment call 917-414-0685 Contrary to mere fortune-telling, Rabbi Stern focuses on fostering profound self-awareness. He specializes in helping individuals choose careers aligned with their talents and learning styles, as well as navigating the complexities of personal growth and spiritual development. Numerous educators and spiritual leaders in Israel and Beit Shemesh refer individuals to Rabbi Stern for his unique insights. Even experienced therapists sometimes struggle to pinpoint the root cause of issues, whereas Rabbi Stern can discern underlying issues with a mere glance at ones palm. To book an appointment call 917-414-0685 Consider the case of a 14-year-old boy caught stealing, whose behavior stumped his parents. After consulting with Rabbi Stern, it was revealed that the boy had experienced a traumatic event, leading to his aberrant behavior. Similarly, a 25-year-old groom, divorced three times, sought guidance from Rabbi Stern, who identified his distorted perception of reality as the underlying issue. In another instance, a woman misdiagnosed with schizophrenia found solace and healing through Rabbi Sterns intervention. His recommendation for a second opinion led to a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Even individuals facing seemingly insurmountable challenges find hope and clarity through Rabbi Sterns guidance. He offers spiritual remedies and practical advice based on timeless Jewish teachings, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve fulfillment. Dont miss this rare opportunity to consult with Rabbi Shmuel Stern during his visit to the United States. Whether you seek clarity in your personal life, guidance in career choices, or spiritual solace, Rabbi Stern offers a beacon of hope and transformation. Schedule your appointment today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. To book an appointment call 917-414-0685 Running an investment bank in parallel with a consumer finance operation is always a big ask. JP Morgan is the exemplar in the US, but the jury is out on Barclays, which like much of the FTSE 100, suffers from a weak market capitalisation. Chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan, known as Venkat, has been struggling with the issue since taking the helm in November 2021 after the ignominious departure of Jes Staley. Venkat, like Staley, has an investment banking background. He is personally frustrated that Barclays fails to reap credit for being the only full service investment bank in Europe which punches above its weight in the City and across the world. Moreover, for all of the ill-placed criticism of the sub-quality of earnings from bids and deals, debt issuance and trading, it has been a terrific generator of earnings for Barclays. Plan: Barclays boss CS Venkatakrishnan (pictured) aims to utilise the group's position as the largest non US-based investment bank, operating across leading global financial centres At a time when Londons financial sector is seen as having lost lustre, stakeholders should be grateful that Barclays is still standing. Credit Suisse has collapsed in far the most significant bank failure since the great financial crisis. Deutsche Bank has suffered from years of losses and its reputation as an investment bank to be trusted has been eroded. Barclays, in Venkats words, runs an investment bank that is globally competitive, the biggest and most successful not domiciled in the US. His courageous plan is to rebuild confidence in a banking brand scarred by scandal and CEO changes, and to continue to grow investment banking but place more focus on everything else that Barclays does. That means a big reorganisation, putting increased heft into wealth management (a parallel with Goldman and UBS) as well as retail consumer banking on both sides of the Atlantic. Barclays has a recognised but tarnished brand and Venkat wants to restore the sheen. In the effort to shift the banks valuation, he is proposing to sell a non-core payments arm, speed up cost cuts and reward investors. Tech and AI make reductions in outgoings more possible. There is a headline-grabbing pledge of returning 10billion to shareholders over the next three years in addition to a recent 3billion of buybacks. This has the extra benefit of reducing the amount of stock in circulation always useful when there is such a big gap between the way the market values a company and the underlying worth of its assets. Way to go. What recession? The job of the Opposition is to keep the Government on its toes. Yet one cannot be alone in thinking that the glee with which Labour pounced upon data showing the UK in a mild, technical recession is unseemly, with the Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves declaring the UK is in a spiral of economic decline. One understands that in an election year this might be regarded as fair game. But words and headlines have consequences. Confidence is zapped, consumers dont spend and businesses curtail investment plans. It is encouraging that Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey, who a year ago was forecasting the longest recession in UK history, conceded in Commons testimony that the slowdown is the most shallow since the 1970s. Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts, to be released with the budget on March 6, are expected to show a lively bounce back in 2024 and beyond. The official arbiters of American recession, the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, only declares such an event when the depth, diffusion, and duration of decline can be shown. QED. Easy kills As Currys largest shareholder, with 14.6 per cent of the equity across all its funds, Redwheel is going to have a big say in what becomes of Britains last free standing electronics retailer. It backs the boards decision to firmly reject the first passing shot from Elliott Advisors (UK). Redwheel expresses frustration that UK asset managers are choosing to reallocate holdings to US equities where valuations are historically high with poor returns. This leads to a doom loop which causes depressed valuations on the FTSE 350 and makes the City a happy hunting ground for overseas predators. That much we know. Redwheel calls for unspecified action by the UK authorities to incentivise investors. Abolishing stamp duty on share trades might be a start but easing the tax regime on dividends and capital gains could be game changers. Are you listening Chancellor? Troubles: Fashion chain Superdry employs about 3,350 people across the world Shares in Superdry surged more than 17 per cent after reports that a US investor is in talks about a deal to buy the troubled fashion chain. New York investment management firm Davidson Kempner is in discussions with Superdry co-founder and chief Julian Dunkerton over potentially backing a deal to take the brand private, according to Sky News. It is understood that talks are at a preliminary stage and there is no guarantee of an agreement. Superdry declined to comment. The business, which employs about 3,350 people across the world, runs 216 shops alongside franchised stores. About a month ago, the business said it was looking at various cost-saving options after reports it was considering a restructure. This could include store closures and job cuts. Days later, the company confirmed that Dunkerton, who co-founded Superdry in 2003, was in talks over a possible takeover deal. Dunkerton, who owns over a quarter of the business, has also reportedly held initial talks with investment firms Rcapital and Gordon Brothers. AstraZeneca boss Pascal Soriot scooped his biggest-ever pay deal last year taking his total earnings to 135million during his 12-year tenure. The pharmaceutical giants long-standing chief executive earned 16.9million in 2023 the fifth year in a row that he has taken home more than 15million. Soriot, 64, has been credited with turning the London-listed drug makers fortunes around. Since he took the reins in October 2012, AstraZenecas share price has more than tripled, adding 115billion to its value. And he oversaw the development of the firms Covid-19 vaccine that allowed lockdowns to be lifted during the pandemic. Pay deal: AstraZeneca boss Pascal Soriot earned 16.9 m in 2023 the fifth year in a row that he has taken home more than 15m But critics said Soriot earns too much around 1,000 times more than a minimum wage worker and 100 times more than many AstraZeneca employees. The French businessman is in line for an even bigger pay day of 18.9million this year. However, a scenario outlined in the firms annual report showed the total amount could be boosted to as much as 25million if the shares were to rise by 50 per cent. High Pay Centre spokesman Andrew Speke said: While having effective leadership is clearly necessary for managing a company the size of AstraZeneca, its also fair to question whether Pascal Soriots contribution to [the firm] has really been that much greater than many of his colleagues whose expertise and hard work are likely to have also played a major role in the companys success. But analysts said Soriot was the driving force behind Astra Zenecas transformation. The fact that AstraZeneca remains a major global player is testament to the chief executive, his management team and the strategy thus far, said Richard Hunter, investment director at Interactive Investor. AstraZenecas profits hit 5.5billion in 2023, up from 1.9billion a year earlier, as sales rose 3 per cent to 36.3billion. Soriots pay packet for last year included his 1.4million base salary, a 2.8million bonus and 12.3million from AstraZenecas long-term incentive plan. The businessman also received 140,000 in benefits and a 157,000 pension allowance. Pay has been a constant source of controversy for the pharmaceutical firms boss. After making 13million in 2018, Soriot complained that he was the lowest-paid chief executive in the whole industry after bosses of rival biotech firms overseas earned more. AstraZeneca was also rocked by a pay row in 2021 when almost 40 per cent of shareholder votes were cast against hiking Soriots total remuneration to a maximum of 17.8million. At the time, the board said that the chief executive was worth the cash, pointing to the remarkable turnaround since he had taken over, with supporters agreeing the changes to prevent him from being poached. Shareholders also revolted over pay at the companys annual general meetings in 2014, 2017 and 2018. Executive pay is back in the spotlight over concerns that higher-paying US firms could poach top UK executives. The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) is reportedly preparing to almost double the potential earnings of its boss David Schwimmer from 6.25million to 11million. Julia Hoggett, who runs the stock market arm of LSEG, warned last year that British firms must pay more to attract top talent. She said: The alternative is we continue standing idly by as our biggest exports become skills, talent, tax revenue and the companies that generate it. AstraZeneca shares fell 2.1 per cent, or 214 p, to 10,204 p. The Body Shop will close nearly half of its UK stores and axe hundreds of jobs as it battles for survival. The company had 198 shops in Britain and 2,200 staff when it tumbled into administration last week in a major blow to the High Street. In a bleak update yesterday, the administrators said the store estate is no longer viable following years of unprofitability. The statement from FRP Advisory added: As an immediate step, seven stores will close today, with additional closures to follow. It is expected that at the conclusion of the restructuring, more than half of The Body Shops 198 stores will remain open. That set the scene for up to 98 store closures across the country. Collapse: The Body Shop had 198 shops in Britain and 2,200 staff when it tumbled into administration last week in a major blow to the High Street The seven shut immediately included sites in Bristol, Nuneaton in Warwickshire and Ashford in Kent as well as four in London at Canary Wharf, Cheapside, Oxford Street and Surrey Quays. The administrators also announced plans to cut 40per cent of staff at the skincare retailers head office at London Bridge. This represents around 300 redundancies out of a 700-plus workforce. There will now be a renewed focus on online sales as it seeks to return to financial stability. The collapse of The Body Shop comes nearly half a century after it was set up in Brighton in 1976 by Anita Roddick before becoming a firm favourite of the middle classes. Announcing the shake-up, FRP said: This swift action will help re-energise The Body Shops iconic brand and provide it with the best platform to achieve its ambition to be a modern, dynamic beauty brand that is able to return to profitability and compete for the long term. The stores that shut yesterday had the highest rents and other bills. The Body Shop has suffered from declining sales amid warnings that it had lost its way in recent years. Roddick and her husband Gordon faced criticism when they sold the company to LOreal for 652million in 2006. A year later, Roddick died aged 64 after a brain haemorrhage. Under LOreals ownership, the firm saw its business model shift slightly, with production moving to the Philippines and discounts used to drive sales. After increased international expansion, in 2017 the business was bought by Natura & Co, the Brazilian owners of Avon who specialised in direct-to-consumer sales, for 880million. Six years later, in November 2023, the company shifted ownership again, being sold for a cut-price 207million to German-based private equity firm Aurelius. Currys biggest shareholder has warned that the stock market is not fit for purpose. Redwheel, which owns 14.6 per cent of the London-listed firm, backed the decision by the electrical retailers board to reject a 700million takeover offer by US hedge fund Elliott Partners. But it said that without reforms, more undervalued British companies are at risk of falling into foreign hands. Ian Lance, co-head of Redwheels UK value and income team, added: This offer for Currys does highlight a wider problem with the UK equity market which no longer seems to fulfil its primary purpose of price discovery and efficient capital allocation. Some of the largest market participants in the UK have been allocating away from UK equities, which are close to all-time low valuations. Redwheel, which owns 14.6% of Currys, backed the decision by the electrical retailers board to reject a 700m takeover offer by US hedge fund Elliott Partners Instead, investors are allocating to US equities, at close to all-time high valuations. This has resulted in pockets of the UK equity market being valued significantly below the true value of the businesses. Lance said: Unless this changes, it seems likely that we will continue to see overseas corporate buyers step in to take advantage of the depressed valuations of UK equities, with ownership falling into foreign hands. Businesses such as chip designer Arm and travel firm Tui have shunned the City in favour of overseas bourses. Efforts to revive the UK market with a series of reforms have so far failed to have much effect. This weekend it emerged that Currys had been approached by New York-based Elliott, but rejected the offer. It subsequently emerged that Chinese online retail giant JD.com was also assessing a bid. Currys said the Elliott offer significantly undervalued the business and analysts at Peel Hunt said the board was unlikely to engage with an offer anywhere below 900million. But the analysts also warned that it could mark the start of a swathe of takeover offers for UK retail companies whose bargain basement prices make them an attractive target. Redwheel yesterday became the first major investor in Currys to make public its view on the spurned Elliott offer. It said it was in complete agreement with the board that the business was worth substantially more than the 62p per share deal that was proposed. Lance said: We believe that a healthy equity market is beneficial to the functioning of the economy and would urge the relevant UK authorities to take action to incentivise investors to allocate to UK equities and save an integral cog of the countrys financial eco-system. BAE Systems profits surpassed expectations last year as governments continued ramping up military spending to counter heightened geopolitical threats. Europe's largest defence contractor's sales rose by 9 per cent at constant currency levels to 25.3billion in 2023, 2billion ahead of guidance, thanks to increasing trade across all sectors. Maritime-related sales provided nearly half of all growth, jumping by 22 per cent to 5.5billion due to funding for the UK's Dreadnought nuclear submarine programme. Strong result: BAE Systems revealed its sales rose by 9 per cent at constant currency levels to 25.3billion in 2023, 2billion ahead of guidance, thanks to increasing trade across all sectors Sales of electronic systems also shot up to 5.5billion thanks to a rebound in commercial airline travel, as well as high demand for electronic combat systems. The trading performance helped the company's underlying profits expand by 9 per cent to 2.7billion, compared to previous forecasts for 6 to 8 per cent growth. BAE Systems expects to do even better this year, with sales and underlying earnings both forecast to swell by double-digit percentage levels. As a result, it announced an 18.5 per share final dividend, taking its total annual dividend to 30p per share, an 11.1 per cent leap on the previous year. Defence giants have seen their orders surge in the past few years as countries have bolstered defence budgets following the outbreak of the Ukraine war and mounting tensions between Taiwan and Beijing. BAE's order backlog stood at a record 69.6billion in 2023 after it won contracts to provide support services for Typhoon aircraft in Saudi Arabia. The group also gained deals from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) worth 3.95billion for work on the SSN-AUKUS submarine programme and 410million to manufacture battlefield munitions. Charles Woodburn, chief executive of BAE, remarked: 'Our performance, combined with our global footprint and record order intake, means we're well-positioned for sustained growth in the coming years.' As part of its expansion efforts, BAE recently bought the aerospace division of Colorado-based Ball Corporation for approximately $5.6billion (4.4billion). Ball Aerospace constructs equipment such as spacecraft, antenna systems, weather monitoring systems, and parts for the Hubble Space Telescope. BAE's takeover of the segment bolsters its considerable presence in the US, which has the world's largest military budget and passed an $886billion national defence spending bill in December. Aarin Chiekrie, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, noted: 'Ball has unique positions in critical space and nuclear deterrence technologies, and the deal looks like a good strategic fit. 'The new business should enhance top-line growth and margins, contributing positively to the group's expectations.' He added: 'Against a backdrop of elevated global tensions and rising military budgets, the sky's looking bright for this jet-maker.' BAE Systems shares fell 3.6 per cent to 1,208.5p on Wednesday morning, but have still climbed by around 165 per cent over the past five years. Giverny Capital Inc. increased its position in Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report) by 7.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 20,760 shares of the credit services providers stock after buying an additional 1,452 shares during the quarter. Giverny Capital Inc.s holdings in Mastercard were worth $8,219,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund grew its stake in shares of Mastercard by 10.8% during the third quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund now owns 1,778,744 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $704,223,000 after acquiring an additional 172,803 shares in the last quarter. Mariner LLC raised its holdings in shares of Mastercard by 5.0% during the third quarter. Mariner LLC now owns 450,259 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $178,262,000 after buying an additional 21,575 shares during the last quarter. Visionary Wealth Advisors raised its holdings in shares of Mastercard by 0.5% during the third quarter. Visionary Wealth Advisors now owns 5,311 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $2,103,000 after buying an additional 27 shares during the last quarter. Ranch Capital Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Mastercard by 7.6% during the third quarter. Ranch Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 1,409 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $558,000 after buying an additional 99 shares during the last quarter. Finally, LPL Financial LLC raised its holdings in shares of Mastercard by 8.2% during the third quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 640,977 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $253,769,000 after buying an additional 48,784 shares during the last quarter. 74.94% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Mastercard alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at Mastercard In other Mastercard news, insider Craig Vosburg sold 13,542 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $460.06, for a total value of $6,230,132.52. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 46,491 shares in the company, valued at $21,388,649.46. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other news, insider Ajay Bhalla sold 98 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $439.52, for a total transaction of $43,072.96. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 6,235 shares in the company, valued at $2,740,407.20. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Craig Vosburg sold 13,542 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $460.06, for a total transaction of $6,230,132.52. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 46,491 shares in the company, valued at $21,388,649.46. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 30,540 shares of company stock worth $13,542,519 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research analysts recently commented on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $425.00 to $480.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 12th. Oppenheimer restated an outperform rating and issued a $510.00 price target on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Thursday, February 1st. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Wednesday, January 31st. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $432.00 to $499.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, February 1st. Finally, Tigress Financial lifted their price objective on shares of Mastercard from $476.00 to $495.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, December 7th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $471.85. Read Our Latest Report on Mastercard Mastercard Price Performance NYSE MA traded down $16.46 on Tuesday, reaching $451.67. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,397,269 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,505,219. The firm has a market cap of $423.57 billion, a PE ratio of 38.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.08. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $436.94 and a 200 day moving average price of $412.97. Mastercard Incorporated has a 52 week low of $340.21 and a 52 week high of $474.17. The company has a current ratio of 1.17, a quick ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.06. Mastercard (NYSE:MA Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The credit services provider reported $3.18 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.08 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $6.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.46 billion. Mastercard had a net margin of 44.60% and a return on equity of 191.22%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.65 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts expect that Mastercard Incorporated will post 14.37 EPS for the current year. Mastercard declared that its Board of Directors has initiated a share buyback program on Tuesday, December 5th that authorizes the company to buyback $11.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the credit services provider to repurchase up to 2.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are typically a sign that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued. Mastercard Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, May 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, April 9th will be given a $0.66 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, April 8th. This represents a $2.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.58%. Mastercards dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 22.32%. Mastercard Profile (Free Report) Mastercard Incorporated, a technology company, provides transaction processing and other payment-related products and services in the United States and internationally. It facilitates the processing of payment transactions, including authorization, clearing, and settlement, as well as delivers other payment-related products and services. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Mastercard Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mastercard and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras (NYSE:EBR Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report released on Saturday. Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras Trading Up 5.5 % Shares of Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras stock opened at $9.04 on Friday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $8.53 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $7.81. Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras has a 1 year low of $5.67 and a 1 year high of $9.11. The company has a quick ratio of 1.86, a current ratio of 1.88 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49. Get Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. - Eletrobras alerts: Institutional Investors Weigh In On Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Hsbc Holdings PLC lifted its holdings in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras by 10.1% during the 2nd quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 2,267,227 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $18,704,000 after purchasing an additional 208,439 shares during the last quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. acquired a new stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras during the 2nd quarter valued at $20,062,000. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras by 509.0% during the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,858,261 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $15,368,000 after purchasing an additional 1,553,112 shares during the last quarter. Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. lifted its holdings in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras by 102.2% during the 3rd quarter. Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. now owns 1,101,685 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $8,053,000 after purchasing an additional 556,886 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Citadel Advisors LLC increased its position in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras by 64.9% during the 2nd quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC now owns 803,451 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $7,127,000 after buying an additional 316,345 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 1.11% of the companys stock. Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. Eletrobras Company Profile Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA Eletrobras, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in Brazil. The company generates electricity through hydroelectric, thermal, nuclear, wind, and solar plants. It owned and operated 32 hydroelectric plants; As of December 31, 2022, it operated 32 hydroelectric plants; five thermal plants, including coal and gas power generation units with a total installed capacity of 1,482 megawatts; and two nuclear power plants comprising Angra I with an installed capacity of 640 megawatts and Angra II with an installed capacity of 1,350 megawatts. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. - Eletrobras Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A. - Eletrobras and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Ampio Pharmaceuticals (NYSE:AMPE Free Report) in a report released on Saturday. The brokerage issued a sell rating on the stock. Ampio Pharmaceuticals Stock Down 2.3 % AMPE opened at $1.67 on Friday. Ampio Pharmaceuticals has a twelve month low of $1.56 and a twelve month high of $8.30. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $1.87 and a 200 day simple moving average of $2.85. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.39 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -0.14 and a beta of 2.09. Get Ampio Pharmaceuticals alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in AMPE. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new position in shares of Ampio Pharmaceuticals in the first quarter worth about $168,000. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in Ampio Pharmaceuticals by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 13,996,074 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,578,000 after buying an additional 61,269 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in Ampio Pharmaceuticals by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 9,307,338 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,375,000 after buying an additional 77,822 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its holdings in Ampio Pharmaceuticals by 2.0% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,430,770 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,612,000 after buying an additional 66,375 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Virtu Financial LLC bought a new position in Ampio Pharmaceuticals in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $72,000. Institutional investors own 3.10% of the companys stock. About Ampio Pharmaceuticals Ampio Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a biopharmaceutical company, develops therapies for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK) in the United States. It develops OA-201, a small molecule formulation for the treatment of OAK pain. The company is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Ampio Pharmaceuticals Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ampio Pharmaceuticals and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NEW DELHI, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Police in the northern Indian state of Haryana Wednesday fired tear gas to disperse farmers and prevent them from marching toward the capital city New Delhi to press for their demands. The farmers resumed their march after rejecting a government proposal to buy pulses, maize, and cotton from the farmers at the minimum safety price (MSP) for the next five years as an offer to end the ongoing protest. The farmers who formed a human chain and tried to proceed with tractor convoys carrying earth-moving machines were stopped with tear gas at the Shambhu border near Ambala district in Haryana, about 200 km from New Delhi. Authorities have deployed hundreds of policemen and paramilitary personnel in riot gear at the border point that has been heavily barricaded to disallow the march. Witnesses said farmers ran for cover to prevent themselves from the stinging smoke. Farmer leaders have urged the federal government to remove barricades on roads and allow them to march peacefully to New Delhi. Meanwhile, the federal government has urged farmers to maintain peace and said it was ready to hold the fifth round of talks with the farmers to find a solution. Scores of farmers with large convoys of tractors have been camping at the Shambhu border since Feb. 13. Approximately 200 farmer organisations were part of the protest plan. India's opposition leaders have also extended support to the farmers and condemned the government's action to use police force to stop farmers. Farmers in India form a considerable voting bloc. The protest has erupted at a time when India is due to hold general elections this year and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a record third term. In September 2020, the Indian government passed three contentious laws aimed at "modernizing" the country's agriculture sector. However, farmers feared the new laws would weaken their position and make them dependent on corporates. Seeking revocation of the laws, thousands of farmers sat on strike on the borders of the national capital then. The strike went on for over a year after which Modi in a surprise address to the nation announced his government was repealing the laws. Builders FirstSource (NYSE:BLDR Get Free Report) is set to issue its quarterly earnings data before the market opens on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of $2.71 per share for the quarter. Investors interested in participating in the companys conference call can do so using this link. Builders FirstSource Trading Down 0.5 % Builders FirstSource stock opened at $182.93 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.76. Builders FirstSource has a 52 week low of $76.69 and a 52 week high of $189.40. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $171.23 and a 200 day simple moving average of $144.73. The stock has a market capitalization of $22.56 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.53 and a beta of 2.04. Get Builders FirstSource alerts: Insider Activity In other news, insider Michael Alan Farmer sold 3,318 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $145.64, for a total transaction of $483,233.52. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 60,660 shares in the company, valued at $8,834,522.40. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Company insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Builders FirstSource Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in BLDR. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 17,422,176 shares of the companys stock worth $1,124,428,000 after acquiring an additional 86,484 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 14.8% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 11,277,012 shares of the companys stock worth $727,819,000 after acquiring an additional 1,455,580 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 0.4% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 4,552,723 shares of the companys stock worth $404,191,000 after acquiring an additional 17,357 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 182.0% in the 2nd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 2,305,047 shares of the companys stock worth $313,486,000 after acquiring an additional 1,487,620 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 2,138,839 shares of the companys stock worth $190,771,000 after acquiring an additional 35,562 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.73% of the companys stock. A number of brokerages recently issued reports on BLDR. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their price objective on shares of Builders FirstSource from $188.00 to $152.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, November 2nd. Truist Financial cut shares of Builders FirstSource from a buy rating to a hold rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $165.00 to $185.00 in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Wedbush lifted their price objective on shares of Builders FirstSource from $175.00 to $225.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, February 12th. B. Riley raised shares of Builders FirstSource from a neutral rating to a buy rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $128.00 to $177.00 in a research note on Wednesday, December 6th. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Builders FirstSource from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $172.87. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on BLDR Builders FirstSource Company Profile (Get Free Report) Builders FirstSource, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and supplies building materials, manufactured components, and construction services to professional homebuilders, sub-contractors, remodelers, and consumers in the United States. It offers lumber and lumber sheet goods comprising dimensional lumber, plywood, and oriented strand board products that are used in on-site house framing; manufactured products, such as wood floor and roof trusses, steel roof trusses, wall panels, stairs, and engineered wood products; and windows, and interior and exterior door units, as well as interior trims and custom products comprising intricate mouldings, stair parts, and columns under the Synboard brand name. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Builders FirstSource Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Builders FirstSource and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NanoXplore Inc. (TSE:GRA Free Report) Stock analysts at Cormark dropped their FY2024 earnings estimates for shares of NanoXplore in a note issued to investors on Thursday, February 15th. Cormark analyst M. Whale now anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of ($0.03) for the year, down from their previous forecast of ($0.02). The consensus estimate for NanoXplores current full-year earnings is $0.02 per share. Get NanoXplore alerts: GRA has been the topic of several other reports. Echelon Wealth Partners reiterated a speculative buy rating on shares of NanoXplore in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Royal Bank of Canada set a C$3.25 price objective on shares of NanoXplore and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 4th. National Bankshares lowered their price objective on shares of NanoXplore from C$5.00 to C$4.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 8th. Finally, Raymond James lowered their price objective on shares of NanoXplore from C$4.50 to C$4.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, November 10th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, NanoXplore presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$3.75. NanoXplore Price Performance Shares of TSE:GRA opened at C$2.13 on Monday. The companys fifty day moving average price is C$2.15 and its 200 day moving average price is C$2.36. NanoXplore has a 12 month low of C$1.87 and a 12 month high of C$3.57. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 20.38, a current ratio of 2.38 and a quick ratio of 2.01. The firm has a market capitalization of C$363.19 million, a P/E ratio of -30.43 and a beta of 1.31. About NanoXplore (Get Free Report) NanoXplore Inc, a graphene company, manufactures and supplies graphene powder for use in industrial markets. The company offers graphene-based solutions, including GrapheneBlack powder and graphene-enhanced masterbatch pellets. It provides standard and custom graphene-enhanced plastic and composite products to customers in transportation, packaging, electronics, and other industrial sectors. See Also Receive News & Ratings for NanoXplore Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NanoXplore and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tootsie Roll Industries (NYSE:TR Get Free Report) and Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli (OTCMKTS:LDSVF Get Free Report) are both consumer staples companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, valuation, earnings, analyst recommendations, profitability, risk and dividends. Analyst Recommendations This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Tootsie Roll Industries and Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Get Tootsie Roll Industries alerts: Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Tootsie Roll Industries 0 0 0 0 N/A Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli 0 1 1 0 2.50 Dividends Valuation and Earnings Tootsie Roll Industries pays an annual dividend of $0.36 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.1%. Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli pays an annual dividend of $6.18 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.0%. Tootsie Roll Industries pays out 28.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli pays out 0.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Tootsie Roll Industries has raised its dividend for 54 consecutive years. Tootsie Roll Industries is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth. This table compares Tootsie Roll Industries and Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprunglis top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Tootsie Roll Industries $681.44 million 3.30 $75.94 million $1.25 25.85 Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli N/A N/A N/A $1,335.70 9.50 Tootsie Roll Industries has higher revenue and earnings than Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli. Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Tootsie Roll Industries, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Profitability This table compares Tootsie Roll Industries and Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprunglis net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Tootsie Roll Industries 11.62% 11.11% 8.49% Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli N/A N/A N/A Insider and Institutional Ownership 16.1% of Tootsie Roll Industries shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 26.4% of Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli shares are owned by institutional investors. 39.2% of Tootsie Roll Industries shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Summary Tootsie Roll Industries beats Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli on 8 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks. About Tootsie Roll Industries (Get Free Report) Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of confectionery products in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and internationally. It sells its products under the Tootsie Roll, Tootsie Pops, Child's Play, Caramel Apple Pops, Charms, Blow-Pop, Charms Mini Pops, Cella's, Dots, Junior Mints, Charleston Chew, Sugar Daddy, Sugar Babies, Andes, Fluffy Stuff, Dubble Bubble, Razzles, Cry Baby, NIK-L-NIP, and Tutsi Pop trademarks. The company sells its products directly to wholesale distributors of candy, and food and groceries; and supermarkets, variety stores, dollar stores, chain grocers, drug chains, discount chains, cooperative grocery associations, mass merchandisers, warehouse and membership club stores, vending machine operators, e-commerce merchants, the United States military, and fund-raising charitable organizations, as well as through food and grocery brokers. Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. was founded in 1896 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. About Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli (Get Free Report) Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli AG, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of chocolate products worldwide. The company sells its products under the Lindt, Ghirardelli, Russell Stover, Whitman's, Caffarel, Hofbauer, Kufferle, and Pangburn's brands. It serves customers through a network of distributors, as well as through own shops. The company was founded in 1845 and is headquartered in Kilchberg, Switzerland. Receive News & Ratings for Tootsie Roll Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tootsie Roll Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V Get Free Report) have been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the twenty analysts that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat reports. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and sixteen have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $290.55. A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their target price on shares of Visa from $290.00 to $309.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. Wedbush boosted their target price on shares of Visa from $270.00 to $280.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. Susquehanna boosted their target price on shares of Visa from $300.00 to $326.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on shares of Visa in a report on Tuesday, December 5th. They issued an outperform rating and a $280.00 target price for the company. Finally, KeyCorp boosted their target price on shares of Visa from $275.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, January 8th. Get Visa alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Visa Insider Activity Institutional Inflows and Outflows In other news, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 8,150 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $255.79, for a total transaction of $2,084,688.50. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 29,152 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,456,790.08. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link . In other news, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 8,150 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $255.79, for a total transaction of $2,084,688.50. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 29,152 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,456,790.08. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link . Also, insider Rajat Taneja sold 36,546 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, January 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.20, for a total value of $9,874,729.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares of the companys stock, valued at $62,716,662.40. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold 80,461 shares of company stock worth $21,417,817 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock. Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Hibernia Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new position in shares of Visa during the 3rd quarter worth $25,000. Altshuler Shaham Ltd purchased a new position in Visa during the 3rd quarter valued at about $25,000. West Tower Group LLC purchased a new position in Visa during the 2nd quarter valued at about $30,000. O Brien Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new position in Visa during the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Financial Freedom LLC purchased a new position in Visa during the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. 81.35% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Visa Stock Performance V stock opened at $275.15 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 1.45 and a quick ratio of 1.45. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $267.59 and a 200 day moving average price of $251.38. The company has a market capitalization of $505.32 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.66, a PEG ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.97. Visa has a 1-year low of $208.76 and a 1-year high of $281.12. Visa (NYSE:V Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 25th. The credit-card processor reported $2.41 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.34 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $8.63 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.55 billion. Visa had a return on equity of 50.02% and a net margin of 53.92%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 9.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.18 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Visa will post 9.91 EPS for the current fiscal year. Visa Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th will be given a $0.52 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.76%. Visas dividend payout ratio is presently 23.94%. Visa Company Profile (Get 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 Articles 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. Teleflex (NYSE:TFX Get Free Report) will announce its earnings results before the market opens on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of $3.26 per share for the quarter. Investors interested in listening to the companys conference call can do so using this link. Teleflex Trading Down 0.0 % Shares of TFX stock opened at $250.95 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 2.51 and a current ratio of 3.58. Teleflex has a 1 year low of $177.63 and a 1 year high of $276.43. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $248.60 and a two-hundred day moving average of $223.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $11.79 billion, a PE ratio of 29.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.28 and a beta of 1.14. Get Teleflex alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research analysts have issued reports on TFX shares. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on Teleflex from $228.00 to $272.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Morgan Stanley upgraded Teleflex from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $261.00 price objective for the company in a report on Monday, December 4th. Raymond James upped their price objective on Teleflex from $227.00 to $271.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Piper Sandler upped their price objective on Teleflex from $210.00 to $225.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, November 6th. Finally, Stephens restated an overweight rating and issued a $275.00 price objective on shares of Teleflex in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $269.30. Insider Activity at Teleflex In related news, CEO Liam Kelly sold 26,256 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.23, for a total value of $6,570,038.88. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 18,470 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,621,748.10. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Liam Kelly sold 26,256 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.23, for a total value of $6,570,038.88. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 18,470 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,621,748.10. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Thomas E. Powell sold 13,952 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $222.88, for a total value of $3,109,621.76. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 14,384 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,205,905.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.41% of the stock is owned by insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Teleflex by 2.1% during the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,633,473 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $2,155,174,000 after acquiring an additional 181,393 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Teleflex by 1.1% during the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 5,454,016 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $1,359,904,000 after acquiring an additional 57,132 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. grew its holdings in Teleflex by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 3,982,749 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $1,008,870,000 after buying an additional 13,204 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley grew its holdings in Teleflex by 535.8% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 2,691,192 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $671,803,000 after buying an additional 2,267,889 shares during the last quarter. Finally, State Street Corp grew its holdings in Teleflex by 2.0% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 2,328,957 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $589,948,000 after buying an additional 44,583 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 97.15% of the companys stock. About Teleflex (Get Free Report) Teleflex Incorporated designs, develops, manufactures, and supplies single-use medical devices for common diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in critical care and surgical applications worldwide. It provides vascular access products that comprise Arrow branded catheters, catheter navigation and tip positioning systems, and intraosseous access systems for the administration of intravenous therapies, the measurement of blood pressure, and the withdrawal of blood samples through a single puncture site. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Teleflex Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Teleflex and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nordea Investment Management AB decreased its position in KB Home (NYSE:KBH Free Report) by 2.0% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 171,387 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 3,504 shares during the period. Nordea Investment Management AB owned about 0.22% of KB Home worth $8,028,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Fifth Third Bancorp boosted its holdings in KB Home by 40.9% in the third quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 930 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $43,000 after acquiring an additional 270 shares during the last quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in KB Home by 1.8% in the third quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 14,996 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $694,000 after buying an additional 272 shares during the period. Parallel Advisors LLC lifted its position in KB Home by 29.4% during the second quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 1,276 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $66,000 after buying an additional 290 shares in the last quarter. Bailard Inc. grew its stake in KB Home by 2.5% during the third quarter. Bailard Inc. now owns 12,100 shares of the construction companys stock worth $560,000 after buying an additional 300 shares during the period. Finally, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans raised its stake in shares of KB Home by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 22,758 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $648,000 after acquiring an additional 362 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.27% of the companys stock. Get KB Home alerts: Insider Activity In other KB Home news, EVP Brian J. Woram sold 83,272 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.53, for a total value of $5,040,454.16. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 156,119 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,449,883.07. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other KB Home news, EVP Brian J. Woram sold 83,272 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, January 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $60.53, for a total transaction of $5,040,454.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 156,119 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,449,883.07. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CEO Jeffrey T. Mezger sold 165,307 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.40, for a total transaction of $9,819,235.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 1,491,298 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $88,583,101.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 373,635 shares of company stock valued at $22,400,005. 4.44% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. KB Home Price Performance Shares of KBH opened at $61.71 on Wednesday. KB Home has a 12-month low of $33.92 and a 12-month high of $64.00. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $61.17 and its 200 day moving average price is $53.49. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.95 billion, a PE ratio of 8.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.75 and a beta of 1.73. KB Home (NYSE:KBH Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 10th. The construction company reported $1.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.70 by $0.15. KB Home had a net margin of 9.21% and a return on equity of 15.63%. The company had revenue of $1.67 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.63 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.47 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 13.9% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that KB Home will post 7.59 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. KB Home Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 22nd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 8th will be paid a $0.20 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 7th. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.30%. KB Homes payout ratio is currently 11.36%. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages have commented on KBH. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on KB Home from $52.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Thursday, January 11th. Seaport Res Ptn raised shares of KB Home from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on KB Home from $49.00 to $55.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 8th. UBS Group increased their price target on KB Home from $63.00 to $79.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 11th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on KB Home from $55.00 to $61.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, January 11th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $58.18. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on KB Home KB Home Profile (Free Report) KB Home operates as a homebuilding company in the United States. It operates through four segments: West Coast, Southwest, Central, and Southeast. It builds and sells various homes, including attached and detached single-family residential homes, townhomes, and condominiums primarily for first-time, first move-up, second move-up, and active adult homebuyers. See Also Receive News & Ratings for KB Home Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KB Home and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (TSE:AEM Free Report) (NYSE:AEM) Equities research analysts at Cormark issued their Q1 2024 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Agnico Eagle Mines in a note issued to investors on Tuesday, February 20th. Cormark analyst R. Gray anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of $0.74 for the quarter. The consensus estimate for Agnico Eagle Mines current full-year earnings is $3.45 per share. Cormark also issued estimates for Agnico Eagle Mines Q2 2024 earnings at $0.74 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $0.74 EPS and Q4 2024 earnings at $0.74 EPS. Get Agnico Eagle Mines alerts: Several other equities research analysts have also recently commented on the company. Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on Agnico Eagle Mines from C$91.00 to C$94.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. National Bankshares raised their target price on Agnico Eagle Mines from C$84.00 to C$85.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, National Bank Financial reiterated an outperform overweight rating on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat, Agnico Eagle Mines has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$86.00. Agnico Eagle Mines Trading Up 2.0 % TSE AEM opened at C$65.76 on Wednesday. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of C$68.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$66.77. Agnico Eagle Mines has a one year low of C$59.36 and a one year high of C$82.90. The stock has a market capitalization of C$32.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.43, a P/E/G ratio of 6.41 and a beta of 1.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.57, a current ratio of 1.99 and a quick ratio of 0.89. Insiders Place Their Bets In other Agnico Eagle Mines news, Director John Merfyn Roberts sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$67.86, for a total value of C$135,720.00. In other news, Director John Merfyn Roberts sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$67.86, for a total value of C$135,720.00. Also, Senior Officer Christopher Charles Norman Vollmershausen sold 3,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$68.98, for a total value of C$215,562.50. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 87,504 shares of company stock worth $6,354,862. Corporate insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock. Agnico Eagle Mines Cuts Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 1st will be issued a $0.537 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 29th. This represents a $2.15 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.27%. Agnico Eagle Miness payout ratio is currently 30.85%. About Agnico Eagle Mines (Get Free Report) Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, a gold mining company, exploration, development, and production of precious metals. The company's mines are located in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agnico Eagle Mines and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Free Report) (TSE:CP) Zacks Research cut their Q1 2024 EPS estimates for shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research report issued on Tuesday, February 20th. Zacks Research analyst M. Basu now forecasts that the transportation company will post earnings of $0.73 per share for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $0.75. The consensus estimate for Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys current full-year earnings is $3.22 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys Q2 2024 earnings at $0.75 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $0.81 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.88 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $3.18 EPS, Q1 2025 earnings at $0.89 EPS, Q2 2025 earnings at $0.92 EPS, Q4 2025 earnings at $1.01 EPS, FY2025 earnings at $3.83 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $4.27 EPS. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: Several other analysts also recently commented on CP. Raymond James upgraded shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. Stephens cut their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $79.00 to $78.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 27th. Susquehanna cut their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $87.00 to $85.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 31st. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 31st. Finally, BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $128.00 to $125.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. Ten investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $92.94. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Down 0.6 % CP stock opened at $84.88 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $80.01 and a 200 day moving average price of $76.67. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 12 month low of $68.92 and a 12 month high of $86.26. The company has a market cap of $79.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.03, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.58 and a beta of 0.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.70 and a quick ratio of 0.61. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 29th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, March 28th will be issued a $0.1415 dividend. This represents a $0.57 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.67%. This is a positive change from Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys previous quarterly dividend of $0.14. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, March 27th. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys dividend payout ratio is 18.15%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC purchased a new position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City in the 2nd quarter valued at about $25,000. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 750.0% during the 4th quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 340 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares during the period. McIlrath & Eck LLC purchased a new position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 2nd quarter worth about $32,000. Sands Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 3rd quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 3rd quarter worth about $29,000. 67.93% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile (Get Free Report) Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada and the United States. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; and merchandise freight, such as energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals and consumer, automotive, and forest products. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fmr LLC lessened its holdings in iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWM Free Report) by 6.7% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 2,028,523 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 145,627 shares during the quarter. Fmr LLC owned approximately 0.68% of iShares Russell 2000 ETF worth $358,521,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF during the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Arjuna Capital purchased a new position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 ETF during the third quarter worth about $34,000. Legacy Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $36,000. VitalStone Financial LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $39,000. Finally, Field & Main Bank bought a new stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF in the third quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Get iShares Russell 2000 ETF alerts: iShares Russell 2000 ETF Stock Down 1.4 % Shares of IWM stock opened at $198.88 on Wednesday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $196.95 and its 200 day moving average is $185.24. iShares Russell 2000 ETF has a twelve month low of $161.67 and a twelve month high of $205.49. iShares Russell 2000 ETF Profile iShares Russell 2000 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 2000 Index (the Index). The Index is a float-adjusted capitalization weighted index that measures the performance of the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market and includes securities issued by the approximately 2,000 smallest issuers in the Russell 3000 Index. Read More Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 2000 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 2000 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF (TSE:XIU Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Friday, February 16th, Zacks reports. Investors of record on Monday, February 26th will be paid a dividend of 0.254 per share on Thursday, February 29th. This represents a $1.02 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.12%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 23rd. This is an increase from iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETFs previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF Stock Down 0.0 % Shares of iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF stock opened at C$32.57 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day moving average is C$32.03 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$30.84. iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF has a 52 week low of C$28.49 and a 52 week high of C$32.72. Get iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF alerts: About iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF (Get Free Report) See Also iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index Fund seeks to provide long-term capital growth by replicating, to the extent possible, the performance of the S&P/TSX 60 Index through investments in the constituent issuers of such index, net of expenses. The Index is comprised of 60 of the largest (by market capitalization) and liquid securities listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), selected by Standard & Poors (S&P) using its industrial classifications and guidelines for evaluating issuer capitalization, liquidity and fundamentals. Receive News & Ratings for iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ANKARA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police detained at least 47 suspected members of the Islamic State (IS) across five provinces, the country's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Wednesday. The suspects were detained in the country's largest city Istanbul, the capital Ankara, along with the provinces of Kirikkale, Adana, and Bursa, Yerlikaya said on social media platform X, without specifying the time of the operations. A total of 1,162 operations have been carried out against the IS since June 1 last year, during which a total of 2,402 suspects were caught, he added. The Turkish government designated the IS as a terrorist organization in 2013 and blamed it for a spate of deadly attacks in the country since 2015. In December last year, Turkish intelligence and security forces captured a top IS terrorist in charge of the group's finances in an operation in Turkiye's southeastern province of Mersin. Turkiye's southern border with Syria has been a significant crossing point for Syrians and foreign fighters since the civil war broke out in Syria in 2011. Virgin Money UK PLC (LON:VMUK Get Free Report) announced a dividend on Saturday, November 23rd, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 22nd will be given a dividend of GBX 2 ($0.03) per share on Wednesday, March 20th. This represents a dividend yield of 1.27%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. The official announcement can be seen at this link. Virgin Money UK Trading Up 0.5 % Shares of LON VMUK opened at GBX 159.70 ($2.01) on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of 2.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 886.67, a P/E/G ratio of 4.28 and a beta of 1.88. Virgin Money UK has a twelve month low of GBX 134.20 ($1.69) and a twelve month high of GBX 184.30 ($2.32). The stock has a 50 day moving average of GBX 157.96 and a two-hundred day moving average of GBX 158.96. Get Virgin Money UK alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider David Duffy sold 71,341 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 168 ($2.12), for a total value of 119,852.88 ($150,910.20). In other Virgin Money UK news, insider David Duffy sold 71,341 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, December 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 168 ($2.12), for a total transaction of 119,852.88 ($150,910.20). Also, insider Clifford Abrahams sold 30,806 shares of Virgin Money UK stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 152 ($1.91), for a total value of 46,825.12 ($58,958.85). Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 203,522 shares of company stock worth $32,076,800. 19.42% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Citigroup cut their price objective on shares of Virgin Money UK from GBX 265 ($3.34) to GBX 180 ($2.27) and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 27th. Barclays reduced their price objective on shares of Virgin Money UK from GBX 210 ($2.64) to GBX 195 ($2.46) and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, November 17th. Berenberg Bank lowered their price objective on Virgin Money UK from GBX 220 ($2.77) to GBX 200 ($2.52) and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 27th. Finally, Shore Capital reissued a buy rating on shares of Virgin Money UK in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given 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 GBX 198.75 ($2.50). Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Virgin Money UK Virgin Money UK Company Profile (Get Free Report) Virgin Money UK PLC provides banking products and services for consumers, and small and medium sized businesses under the Clydesdale Bank, Yorkshire Bank, and Virgin Money brands in the United Kingdom. The company offers savings and current accounts, mortgages, credit cards, and home loans; business loans, overdraft facilities, treasury solutions, and corporate and structured finance; risk management; asset and invoice finance services; international trade services; and home, car, and life and critical illness insurance products. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Virgin Money UK Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Virgin Money UK and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF (TSE:XSB Get Free Report) shares traded down 0.1% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as C$25.93 and last traded at C$25.96. 24,553 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 56% from the average session volume of 55,330 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$25.98. iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF Price Performance The firm has a 50-day moving average of C$26.08 and a 200-day moving average of C$25.73. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rathbones Group PLC grew its position in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM Free Report) (TSE:CM) by 11.1% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 120,530 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 12,004 shares during the quarter. Rathbones Group PLCs holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce were worth $4,674,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $305,412,000. MUFG Securities EMEA plc boosted its holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 377.5% during the 2nd quarter. MUFG Securities EMEA plc now owns 2,626,000 shares of the banks stock valued at $148,527,000 after acquiring an additional 2,076,000 shares during the period. Intact Investment Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 299.1% during the 3rd quarter. Intact Investment Management Inc. now owns 2,575,873 shares of the banks stock valued at $99,428,000 after acquiring an additional 1,930,440 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 21.2% during the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 6,365,236 shares of the banks stock valued at $271,668,000 after acquiring an additional 1,112,352 shares during the period. Finally, Polar Asset Management Partners Inc. boosted its holdings in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 101.2% during the 2nd quarter. Polar Asset Management Partners Inc. now owns 7,500 shares of the banks stock valued at $321,000 after acquiring an additional 615,950 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 43.72% of the companys stock. Get Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades CM has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. National Bank Financial upgraded Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. StockNews.com raised Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, December 8th. Scotiabank upgraded Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating in a report on Tuesday. Finally, Bank of America raised shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from an underperform rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, December 18th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $63.00. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Trading Up 1.3 % Shares of NYSE:CM opened at $46.47 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $43.30 billion, a PE ratio of 12.16, a P/E/G ratio of 2.01 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce has a 12-month low of $34.35 and a 12-month high of $48.92. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $46.27 and its 200-day simple moving average is $41.66. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM Get Free Report) (TSE:CM) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 30th. The bank reported $1.16 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.13 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $5.84 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.34 billion. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce had a return on equity of 13.55% and a net margin of 8.99%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 8.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.08 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce will post 5.24 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, January 29th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 28th were given a $0.6623 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 27th. This represents a $2.65 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.70%. This is an increase from Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces previous quarterly dividend of $0.66. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces payout ratio is presently 67.54%. About Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (Free Report) Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM Free Report) (TSE:CM). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Strathcona Resources Ltd. (OTCMKTS:BKBEF Get Free Report) was down 2.6% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $1.37 and last traded at $1.37. Approximately 83,600 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 118% from the average daily volume of 38,292 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1.41. Strathcona Resources Trading Down 2.6 % The business has a 50-day moving average price of $1.37 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $1.48. About Strathcona Resources (Get Free Report) Strathcona Resources Ltd. acquires, explores for, develops, and produces petroleum and natural gas reserves in western Canada. The company has 100% interests in the Cactus Lake property located to the south of Macklin, Saskatchewan; the Winter property located to the northwest of Unity, Saskatchewan; and the Court property located to the southeast of Kerrobert, Saskatchewan. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Strathcona Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Strathcona Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Savaria (OTCMKTS:SISXF Get Free Report) and IHI (OTCMKTS:IHICF Get Free Report) are both industrials companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, analyst recommendations, earnings, valuation, institutional ownership, dividends and profitability. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Savaria and IHIs top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Get Savaria alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Savaria N/A N/A N/A $0.22 55.32 IHI N/A N/A N/A $27.33 0.71 IHI is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Savaria, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Dividends Institutional and Insider Ownership Savaria pays an annual dividend of $0.13 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.0%. IHI pays an annual dividend of $7.17 per share and has a dividend yield of 36.8%. Savaria pays out 56.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. IHI pays out 26.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. IHI is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio. 6.6% of Savaria shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 17.1% of IHI shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock is poised for long-term growth. Analyst Recommendations This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for Savaria and IHI, as reported by MarketBeat. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Savaria 0 0 3 0 3.00 IHI 0 1 0 0 2.00 Savaria presently has a consensus target price of $23.00, indicating a potential upside of 88.97%. Given Savarias stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities analysts clearly believe Savaria is more favorable than IHI. Profitability This table compares Savaria and IHIs net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Savaria N/A N/A N/A IHI N/A N/A N/A About Savaria (Get Free Report) Savaria Corporation provides accessibility solutions for the elderly and physically challenged people in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Accessibility, Patient Care, and Adapted Vehicles. The Accessibility segment designs, manufactures, distributes, and installs accessibility products, such as stairlifts for straight and curved stairs, vertical and inclined wheelchair platform lifts for commercial and residential applications, and commercial accessibility and home elevators. The Patient Care segment manufactures and distributes therapeutic support surfaces and other pressure management products for the medical and medical beds, as well as offers medical equipment and solutions for the safe handling of patients. The Adapted Vehicles segment provides vehicles for people with mobility challenges for personal or commercial use. It sells its products through dealers and by direct stores to end-user customers. The company was founded in 1979 and is based in Laval, Canada. About IHI (Get Free Report) IHI Corporation operates in resources, energy, and environment; social infrastructure and offshore facilities; industrial systems and general-purpose machinery; aero engine, space, and defense; and other business areas in Japan and internationally. It provides carbon reduction solutions; gas turbines and engines, and diesel engines for land use, and high-speed ships and other marine vessels; LNG receiving terminals and storage tanks; and equipment for various plants. The company also constructs natural gas liquefaction, oil refining, petrochemicals, LPG, and other process plants; develops and constructs nuclear fuel cycle systems; provides components for boiling and pressurized water reactors; and constructs bridges and steel structures. It offers water gates for rivers and dams; environmental monitoring products; concrete construction materials; 3D laser radars, X-ray inspection systems, monitoring and disaster prevention equipment, oil leak monitors, and vibration control and seismic isolation floor systems; shield tunneling machines and automatic segment assembling systems; transportation systems; LPG/LEG storage tanks; floating LNG/LPG production, storage, and offloading units; and semi-submersible rigs, mega-float, and others. The company also leases and sells real estate properties; develops houses; and provides compressors, cryogenic products, logistics systems, steelmaking equipment, machinery for ships, turbochargers for vehicles, separators, lubricating systems, pulp and paper machinery, materials handling systems, agricultural machinery, parking systems, boilers, and life associated equipment. It offers factory, heat treatment and surface engineering solutions; aero engines; air traffic control systems; and rocket systems and space exploration solutions. The company was formerly known as Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co., Ltd and changed its name to IHI Corporation in 2007. IHI Corporation was founded in 1853 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Receive News & Ratings for Savaria Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Savaria and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. ClariVest Asset Management LLC reduced its stake in New Jersey Resources Co. (NYSE:NJR Free Report) by 53.7% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 21,301 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 24,713 shares during the quarter. ClariVest Asset Management LLCs holdings in New Jersey Resources were worth $866,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. SG Americas Securities LLC purchased a new stake in shares of New Jersey Resources during the 3rd quarter valued at $1,738,000. LPL Financial LLC grew its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 6.1% during the 2nd quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 108,999 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $5,145,000 after acquiring an additional 6,246 shares during the period. Inspire Investing LLC grew its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 13.6% during the 3rd quarter. Inspire Investing LLC now owns 7,555 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $307,000 after acquiring an additional 906 shares during the period. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC grew its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 84.2% during the 2nd quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 2,045 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $97,000 after acquiring an additional 935 shares during the period. Finally, Jackson Creek Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of New Jersey Resources by 6.6% during the 2nd quarter. Jackson Creek Investment Advisors LLC now owns 24,253 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,145,000 after acquiring an additional 1,494 shares during the period. 73.08% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get New Jersey Resources alerts: New Jersey Resources Stock Performance Shares of NJR opened at $42.02 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $4.13 billion, a PE ratio of 17.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a current ratio of 0.70, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.33. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $42.93 and a 200-day moving average price of $42.56. New Jersey Resources Co. has a 12-month low of $38.92 and a 12-month high of $55.84. New Jersey Resources Dividend Announcement New Jersey Resources ( NYSE:NJR Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The utilities provider reported $0.74 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.89 by ($0.15). The firm had revenue of $467.20 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $812.66 million. New Jersey Resources had a net margin of 13.96% and a return on equity of 11.13%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 35.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.14 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts forecast that New Jersey Resources Co. will post 2.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 13th will be issued a dividend of $0.42 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, March 12th. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.00%. New Jersey Resourcess dividend payout ratio is 68.85%. Analyst Ratings Changes Several research analysts have commented on NJR shares. StockNews.com upgraded New Jersey Resources from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Mizuho dropped their price target on New Jersey Resources from $47.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Read Our Latest Analysis on NJR Insider Activity at New Jersey Resources In other New Jersey Resources news, COO Patrick J. Migliaccio sold 3,579 shares of New Jersey Resources stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $44.29, for a total value of $158,513.91. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 41,886 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,855,130.94. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 0.75% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. About New Jersey Resources (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. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NJR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for New Jersey Resources Co. (NYSE:NJR Free Report). 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. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLC reduced its stake in General Electric (NYSE:GE Free Report) by 2.7% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 8,072 shares of the conglomerates stock after selling 222 shares during the quarter. Azimuth Capital Investment Management LLCs holdings in General Electric were worth $892,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of GE. Sei Investments Co. grew its stake in shares of General Electric by 10.0% during the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 305,384 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $27,925,000 after acquiring an additional 27,682 shares during the period. Prudential PLC bought a new position in General Electric in the 1st quarter worth about $1,518,000. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its stake in General Electric by 2.9% in the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 11,748 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,075,000 after purchasing an additional 334 shares during the period. Merit Financial Group LLC bought a new position in General Electric in the 1st quarter worth about $388,000. Finally, West Family Investments Inc. bought a new position in General Electric in the 1st quarter worth about $230,000. 74.83% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get General Electric alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at General Electric In related news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $144.87, for a total value of $3,195,107.85. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 56,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,153,863.08. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In other news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 13,601 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.55, for a total transaction of $1,843,615.55. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 48,339 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,552,351.45. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $144.87, for a total transaction of $3,195,107.85. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 56,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,153,863.08. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.67% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. General Electric Trading Down 0.4 % NYSE:GE traded down $0.63 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $147.99. The stock had a trading volume of 249,607 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,148,785. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $131.72 and a 200 day moving average of $120.05. The company has a market capitalization of $161.06 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.76, a PEG ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 1.25. The company has a quick ratio of 0.85, a current ratio of 1.18 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. General Electric has a one year low of $81.65 and a one year high of $150.36. General Electric (NYSE:GE Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The conglomerate reported $1.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.90 by $0.13. General Electric had a return on equity of 10.88% and a net margin of 13.95%. The firm had revenue of $19.42 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.27 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.24 EPS. The firms revenue was up 15.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that General Electric will post 4.53 EPS for the current year. General Electric Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, January 25th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 28th were issued a $0.08 dividend. This represents a $0.32 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.22%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 27th. General Electrics payout ratio is 3.82%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts have commented on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on General Electric from $124.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. StockNews.com raised General Electric from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 1st. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on General Electric from $144.00 to $148.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Barclays raised their price target on General Electric from $144.00 to $153.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Finally, TheStreet raised General Electric from a c+ rating to a b+ rating in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $132.00. Get Our Latest Research Report on General Electric General Electric Company Profile (Free Report) General Electric Company operates as a high-tech industrial company in Europe, China, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. It offers gas and steam turbines, full balance of plant, upgrade, and service solutions, as well as data-leveraging software for power generation, industrial, government, and other customers. Read More Receive News & Ratings for General Electric Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for General Electric and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Bison Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report) in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 2,808 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $383,000. A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in J. Clear Street Markets LLC boosted its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 93.8% during the first quarter. Clear Street Markets LLC now owns 250 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 121 shares during the last quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC boosted its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 47.7% during the second quarter. Cary Street Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 254 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 82 shares during the last quarter. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 210.5% during the second quarter. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 295 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Park Place Capital Corp boosted its stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions by 473.9% during the third quarter. Park Place Capital Corp now owns 264 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 218 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Jacobs Solutions during the third quarter valued at $42,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.77% of the companys stock. Get Jacobs Solutions alerts: Jacobs Solutions Price Performance J stock opened at $145.32 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $18.26 billion, a PE ratio of 25.95, a P/E/G ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 0.73. The stocks 50 day moving average is $134.28 and its two-hundred day moving average is $133.44. The company has a quick ratio of 1.37, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42. Jacobs Solutions Inc. has a 52-week low of $109.00 and a 52-week high of $149.17. Jacobs Solutions Increases Dividend Jacobs Solutions ( NYSE:J Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.02 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.56 by $0.46. The company had revenue of $4.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.02 billion. Jacobs Solutions had a return on equity of 14.57% and a net margin of 4.20%. The businesss revenue was up 10.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.67 EPS. Analysts predict that Jacobs Solutions Inc. will post 8.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 22nd. Investors of record on Friday, February 23rd will be given a dividend of $0.29 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 22nd. This represents a $1.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.80%. This is a positive change from Jacobs Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. Jacobs Solutionss payout ratio is currently 18.57%. Insider Activity at Jacobs Solutions In related news, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total transaction of $194,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 28,150 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other Jacobs Solutions news, EVP Shelette M. Gustafson sold 1,852 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $148.00, for a total transaction of $274,096.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 28,791 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,261,068. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, SVP William B. Allen, Jr. sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.50, for a total value of $194,250.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 28,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,645,425. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 19,018 shares of company stock worth $2,475,578 in the last 90 days. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of analysts have issued reports on J shares. Stifel Nicolaus reissued a buy rating and issued a $150.00 price target on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Tuesday, November 21st. KeyCorp started coverage on Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. They issued a sector weight rating on the stock. Benchmark reissued a buy rating and issued a $160.00 price target on shares of Jacobs Solutions in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Raymond James lowered Jacobs Solutions from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised their price objective on Jacobs Solutions from $151.00 to $161.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Jacobs Solutions currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $152.11. View Our Latest Research Report on Jacobs Solutions About Jacobs Solutions (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. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding J? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Jacobs Solutions Inc. (NYSE:J Free Report). 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. Bison Wealth LLC lessened its stake in Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL Free Report) by 8.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 5,466 shares of the companys stock after selling 507 shares during the period. Bison Wealth LLCs holdings in Colgate-Palmolive were worth $389,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of CL. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in Colgate-Palmolive by 90,253.2% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 15,974,451 shares of the companys stock worth $1,258,627,000 after purchasing an additional 15,956,771 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new position in shares of Colgate-Palmolive during the 4th quarter worth approximately $644,715,000. Renaissance Technologies LLC raised its stake in shares of Colgate-Palmolive by 151.6% during the 1st quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 5,688,786 shares of the companys stock worth $431,381,000 after buying an additional 3,427,400 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley raised its stake in shares of Colgate-Palmolive by 41.7% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 11,370,549 shares of the companys stock worth $895,886,000 after buying an additional 3,345,297 shares during the period. Finally, Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec raised its stake in shares of Colgate-Palmolive by 1,915.2% during the 1st quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 1,793,287 shares of the companys stock worth $135,985,000 after buying an additional 1,704,300 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.36% of the companys stock. Get Colgate-Palmolive alerts: Colgate-Palmolive Stock Up 1.4 % Shares of NYSE:CL opened at $84.63 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 8.59. The business has a fifty day moving average of $81.20 and a two-hundred day moving average of $76.63. The stock has a market cap of $69.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.44, a PEG ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 0.42. Colgate-Palmolive has a 52-week low of $67.62 and a 52-week high of $86.14. Colgate-Palmolive Announces Dividend Colgate-Palmolive ( NYSE:CL Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Friday, January 26th. The company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.85 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $4.95 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.89 billion. Colgate-Palmolive had a return on equity of 509.75% and a net margin of 11.82%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.77 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Colgate-Palmolive will post 3.48 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, January 22nd were issued a dividend of $0.48 per share. This represents a $1.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.27%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, January 19th. Colgate-Palmolives dividend payout ratio is presently 69.06%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. StockNews.com downgraded Colgate-Palmolive from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on Colgate-Palmolive from $85.00 to $93.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, January 29th. Jefferies Financial Group initiated coverage on Colgate-Palmolive in a research note on Monday, November 13th. They issued a buy rating and a $87.00 price objective for the company. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on Colgate-Palmolive from $80.00 to $88.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, January 29th. Finally, TheStreet raised Colgate-Palmolive from a c+ rating to a b+ rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Colgate-Palmolive currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $86.93. Read Our Latest Analysis on Colgate-Palmolive Insider Transactions at Colgate-Palmolive In other news, insider Jennifer Daniels sold 3,538 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $84.67, for a total transaction of $299,562.46. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 59,698 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,054,629.66. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, CEO Noel R. Wallace sold 69,948 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $84.22, for a total transaction of $5,891,020.56. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 286,881 shares in the company, valued at approximately $24,161,117.82. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Jennifer Daniels sold 3,538 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $84.67, for a total value of $299,562.46. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 59,698 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,054,629.66. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 251,171 shares of company stock worth $20,972,787. 0.34% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About Colgate-Palmolive (Free Report) Colgate-Palmolive Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells consumer products worldwide. The company operates through two segments, Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. The Oral, Personal and Home Care segment offers toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, bar and liquid hand soaps, shower gels, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and antiperspirants, skin health products, dishwashing detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners, and other related items. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Colgate-Palmolive Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Colgate-Palmolive and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in NiSource Inc. (NYSE:NI Free Report) by 4.2% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 8,101,773 shares of the utilities providers stock after buying an additional 326,999 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. owned about 1.96% of NiSource worth $199,952,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. State Street Corp increased its position in shares of NiSource by 1.0% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 22,039,844 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $602,790,000 after buying an additional 223,303 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC boosted its stake in NiSource by 8.7% in the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 11,071 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $303,000 after purchasing an additional 885 shares during the period. IFP Advisors Inc boosted its stake in NiSource by 5.9% in the 3rd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 14,036 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $346,000 after purchasing an additional 777 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its stake in NiSource by 9.9% in the 2nd quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 857,109 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $23,442,000 after purchasing an additional 77,183 shares during the period. Finally, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans boosted its stake in NiSource by 12.4% in the 2nd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 1,858,141 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $50,820,000 after purchasing an additional 204,322 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 94.91% of the companys stock. Get NiSource alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on NI shares. Barclays assumed coverage on shares of NiSource in a research note on Monday, January 22nd. They issued an overweight rating and a $28.00 target price for the company. StockNews.com downgraded shares of NiSource from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Friday, February 16th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell 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 Moderate Buy and an average price target of $28.86. NiSource Trading Up 0.5 % NiSource stock opened at $26.02 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $26.14 and a 200-day moving average of $26.05. NiSource Inc. has a one year low of $22.86 and a one year high of $28.95. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.66, a current ratio of 0.41 and a quick ratio of 0.29. The company has a market cap of $10.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.46, a P/E/G ratio of 2.12 and a beta of 0.49. NiSource (NYSE:NI Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 21st. The utilities provider reported $0.53 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.52 by $0.01. NiSource had a net margin of 12.46% and a return on equity of 11.14%. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.50 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts expect that NiSource Inc. will post 1.59 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. NiSource Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, February 20th. Investors of record on Monday, February 5th were paid a $0.265 dividend. This is an increase from NiSources previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. This represents a $1.06 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.07%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, February 2nd. NiSources dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 71.14%. Insider Activity at NiSource In related news, Director Michael E. Jesanis sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $26.24, for a total value of $131,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 48,070 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,261,356.80. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.24% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. About NiSource (Free Report) NiSource Inc, an energy holding company, operates as a regulated natural gas and electric utility company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Gas Distribution Operations and Electric Operations. The company distributes natural gas to approximately 859,000 customers in northern Indiana, as well as approximately 2.4 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland. Read More Receive News & Ratings for NiSource Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NiSource and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. JINAN, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- At a bustling coastal factory in Longkou City in east China's Shandong Province, several giant ships at different stages of construction can be spotted, with workers toiling tirelessly to prepare them for their final delivery. These ships, being built by Longkou CIMC Raffles Offshore Limited, will be used for transporting made-in-China automobiles to international markets. Specifically designed for shipping cars, the "ro-ro" (roll-on/roll-off) auto carrier has become a much sought-after product due to rising orders partly driven by China's robust auto exports. Official data showed that China exported a total of 4.91 million vehicles in 2023, surpassing Japan to become the world's top auto exporter. To meet the transport demands of auto exports, many Chinese carmakers have invested in building a fleet of automobile "ro-ro" carriers. China boasts the most robust shipbuilding capabilities in the world, maintaining its global lead in 2023 with double-digit growth in output, new orders and orders in hand. Last year, approximately 82.7 percent of the global new orders for auto carriers were secured by China. According to Guangzhou Shipyard International Company Limited, a major Chinese shipbuilder, orders for vehicle carrier vessels are fully booked until 2028. "We have many orders to deliver now, and the production plan has been extended to the next few years," said Liu Hao, project director of the automobile "ro-ro" carrier business at Longkou CIMC Raffles Offshore Limited. As a manufacturer of offshore equipment, the company made a foray into the automobile "ro-ro" carrier business in 2021. After 15 months of manufacturing, it delivered its first product in January, which was later rented by leading Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) maker BYD to serve its overseas sales. BYD overtook Tesla to become the world's top seller of electric vehicles last year. Its overseas sales of NEVs reached 243,000 units in 2023, skyrocketing 334.2 percent year on year. SAIC Motor, another Chinese auto giant, flagged off its first "ro-ro" ship on Jan. 17, transporting Chinese-brand vehicles to Europe. The carmaker is expected to receive another auto carrier from Longkou CIMC Raffles Offshore Limited in May. SAIC Anji Logistics Co., a logistics unit owned by SAIC Motor, has built a strong fleet of 31 self-operated car-carrying vessels. It has opened seven self-operated international routes, and over the next three years, 14 ocean-going transport ships will be added to its ocean-going fleet. "Chinese carmakers' race to buy or rent auto 'ro-ro' ships is a manifestation of the continuous development of China's automobile industry and the accelerated pace of overseas expansion," said Li Xiang, a think tank researcher with Harbin Institute of Technology. Cui Dongshu, secretary general of the China Passenger Car Association, noted that this move can keep exports smooth, reduce transportation costs and ensure the timely delivery of products to overseas customers. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Commerce and eight other government agencies unveiled a guideline to facilitate NEV exports, encouraging shipping enterprises to rationally increase the size of their "ro-ro" transport fleets, and make full use of innovative and flexible transport modes such as containers and pulp vessels. Shipping enterprises are expected to increase the frequency of "ro-ro" ships and open up new routes for NEVs, and speed up the opening of a multi-port export passage for NEVs, the guideline added. "The era of shipping made-in-China cars with one's own fleet has arrived," Cui said. "It will contribute to the sustainable development of China's auto exports." Clearbridge Investments LLC cut its holdings in shares of American International Group, Inc. (NYSE:AIG Free Report) by 10.3% in the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 5,748,608 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 658,045 shares during the quarter. Clearbridge Investments LLC owned 0.82% of American International Group worth $348,366,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. increased its stake in American International Group by 3.6% during the third quarter. Avantax Advisory Services Inc. now owns 4,819 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $292,000 after purchasing an additional 167 shares during the period. Steph & Co. increased its stake in American International Group by 3.3% during the third quarter. Steph & Co. now owns 5,448 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $330,000 after purchasing an additional 176 shares during the period. Kentucky Retirement Systems Insurance Trust Fund increased its stake in American International Group by 0.7% during the third quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems Insurance Trust Fund now owns 27,251 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,294,000 after purchasing an additional 186 shares during the period. Graypoint LLC increased its stake in American International Group by 2.5% during the third quarter. Graypoint LLC now owns 7,760 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $470,000 after purchasing an additional 191 shares during the period. Finally, Parkside Financial Bank & Trust increased its stake in American International Group by 20.9% during the first quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 1,110 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $69,000 after purchasing an additional 192 shares during the period. 88.57% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get American International Group alerts: American International Group Stock Performance Shares of AIG stock traded up $0.68 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $68.81. The stock had a trading volume of 424,121 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,753,986. The firm has a market capitalization of $46.86 billion, a PE ratio of 13.65, a PEG ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 1.02. American International Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $45.66 and a twelve month high of $73.28. The stocks 50 day moving average is $68.31 and its 200 day moving average is $63.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a current ratio of 0.31 and a quick ratio of 0.31. American International Group Announces Dividend American International Group ( NYSE:AIG Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 14th. The insurance provider reported $1.79 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.59 by $0.20. The business had revenue of $1.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.61 billion. American International Group had a return on equity of 10.68% and a net margin of 7.78%. The companys revenue was up .0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.36 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that American International Group, Inc. will post 7.23 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.36 per share. This represents a $1.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.09%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 13th. American International Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 28.86%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of analysts recently weighed in on AIG shares. Argus upgraded shares of American International Group from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $74.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, November 21st. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on shares of American International Group from $76.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. HSBC started coverage on shares of American International Group in a research note on Thursday, December 28th. They set a buy rating and a $86.00 target price on the stock. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on shares of American International Group from $83.00 to $81.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Finally, TD Cowen started coverage on shares of American International Group in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. They set a market perform rating and a $78.00 target price on the stock. Nine research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $72.35. View Our Latest Analysis on AIG About American International Group (Free Report) American International Group, Inc offers insurance products for commercial, institutional, and individual customers in North America and internationally. It operates through three segments: General Insurance, Life and Retirement, and Other Operations. The General Insurance segment provides commercial and industrial property insurance, including business interruption and package insurance that cover exposure to made and natural disasters; general liability, environmental, commercial automobile liability, workers' compensation, excess casualty, and crisis management insurance products; and professional liability insurance. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for American International Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for American International Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rodgers Brothers Inc. increased its holdings in Bank of Montreal (NYSE:BMO Free Report) (TSE:BMO) by 5.8% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 10,975 shares of the banks stock after purchasing an additional 600 shares during the period. Rodgers Brothers Inc.s holdings in Bank of Montreal were worth $926,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc raised its holdings in Bank of Montreal by 4.2% in the 3rd quarter. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc now owns 171,717 shares of the banks stock worth $14,488,000 after purchasing an additional 6,901 shares in the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp raised its stake in Bank of Montreal by 0.5% during the 3rd quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 13,757,010 shares of the banks stock worth $1,102,086,000 after acquiring an additional 69,009 shares during the period. Goldstein Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Bank of Montreal during the third quarter valued at approximately $446,000. Capital International Investors bought a new stake in Bank of Montreal in the second quarter worth $58,266,000. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in Bank of Montreal by 10.9% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 2,529,413 shares of the banks stock worth $229,590,000 after purchasing an additional 249,185 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 43.89% of the companys stock. Get Bank of Montreal alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms have commented on BMO. Bank of America raised shares of Bank of Montreal from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday, December 18th. National Bank Financial upgraded Bank of Montreal from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded shares of Bank of Montreal from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Bank of Montreal Stock Performance NYSE:BMO traded down $0.23 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $94.37. The companys stock had a trading volume of 49,542 shares, compared to its average volume of 647,074. Bank of Montreal has a fifty-two week low of $73.98 and a fifty-two week high of $100.12. The firms 50 day moving average is $95.23 and its 200-day moving average is $87.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 0.96 and a quick ratio of 0.96. The firm has a market cap of $68.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.63, a P/E/G ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 1.15. Bank of Montreal (NYSE:BMO Get Free Report) (TSE:BMO) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, December 1st. The bank reported $2.07 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $2.07. Bank of Montreal had a net margin of 6.41% and a return on equity of 12.55%. The company had revenue of $6.16 billion for the quarter. Equities analysts anticipate that Bank of Montreal will post 9.7 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Bank of Montreal Increases Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, February 27th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, January 30th will be paid a dividend of $1.1137 per share. This is a boost from Bank of Montreals previous quarterly dividend of $1.11. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, January 29th. This represents a $4.45 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.72%. Bank of Montreals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 103.59%. About Bank of Montreal (Free Report) Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. It operates through Canadian P&C, U.S P&C, BMO Wealth Management, and BMO Capital Markets segments. The company's personal banking products and services include deposits, mortgages, home lending, consumer credit, small business lending, credit cards, cash management, financial and investment advice, and other banking services; and commercial banking products and services comprise various of financing options and treasury and payment solutions, as well as risk management products. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of Montreal (NYSE:BMO Free Report) (TSE:BMO). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Montreal Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Montreal and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. River & Mercantile Asset Management LLP lowered its stake in Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SPR Free Report) by 11.5% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 46,787 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 6,069 shares during the quarter. River & Mercantile Asset Management LLPs holdings in Spirit AeroSystems were worth $755,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. LPL Financial LLC lifted its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 5.7% in the third quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 17,445 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $282,000 after purchasing an additional 940 shares during the period. Valueworks LLC lifted its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 89.0% in the third quarter. Valueworks LLC now owns 233,405 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $3,767,000 after purchasing an additional 109,930 shares during the period. Aigen Investment Management LP acquired a new stake in Spirit AeroSystems in the third quarter worth about $294,000. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 3.1% in the third quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 644,950 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $10,409,000 after purchasing an additional 19,515 shares during the period. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 36.2% in the third quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 531,141 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $8,573,000 after purchasing an additional 141,061 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.05% of the companys stock. Get Spirit AeroSystems alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on SPR shares. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $35.00 to $33.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $22.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, November 2nd. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. TD Cowen upgraded shares of Spirit AeroSystems from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $27.00 to $35.00 in a research report on Thursday, February 8th. Finally, Robert W. Baird upgraded shares of Spirit AeroSystems from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $30.00 to $36.00 in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Spirit AeroSystems presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $30.72. Spirit AeroSystems Price Performance NYSE SPR traded up $0.03 on Wednesday, hitting $29.37. 402,273 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,583,220. Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. has a twelve month low of $14.65 and a twelve month high of $36.00. The companys 50 day moving average price is $29.10 and its 200-day moving average price is $24.21. Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE:SPR Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The aerospace company reported $0.48 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.32 by ($0.84). The firm had revenue of $1.81 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.74 billion. Spirit AeroSystemss revenue for the quarter was up 37.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned ($1.46) EPS. On average, analysts predict that Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. will post 0.48 EPS for the current year. Spirit AeroSystems Company Profile (Free Report) Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc engages in the design, engineering, manufacture, and marketing of commercial aerostructures worldwide. It operates through three segments: Commercial, Defense & Space, and Aftermarket. The Commercial segment offers forward, mid, and rear fuselage sections and systems, nacelles, struts/pylons, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, flaps and slats flight control surfaces, wing structures, and fully functional and tested wing systems. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Spirit AeroSystems Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Spirit AeroSystems and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Motley Fool Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW Free Report) by 8.0% in the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 46,929 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 3,493 shares during the quarter. Motley Fool Asset Management LLCs holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $2,576,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Worth Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Charles Schwab during the 1st quarter worth $32,000. BluePath Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Charles Schwab during the 3rd quarter worth $34,000. State of Wyoming boosted its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 71.0% during the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 624 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 259 shares during the last quarter. WFA of San Diego LLC purchased a new position in shares of Charles Schwab during the 2nd quarter worth $39,000. Finally, Gould Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of Charles Schwab by 33.3% during the 1st quarter. Gould Capital LLC now owns 800 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $42,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 81.61% of the companys stock. Get Charles Schwab alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets SCHW has been the topic of several analyst reports. Citigroup cut shares of Charles Schwab from a buy rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $75.00 to $70.00 in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $72.00 to $82.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 15th. Raymond James lowered their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $78.00 to $75.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Redburn Atlantic initiated coverage on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Friday, December 1st. They set a sell rating and a $52.00 target price on the stock. Finally, JMP Securities restated a market outperform rating and set a $77.00 target price on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $69.92. Insider Transactions at Charles Schwab In other news, CFO Peter B. Crawford sold 8,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.76, for a total value of $518,080.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 29,611 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,917,608.36. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In related news, CFO Peter B. Crawford sold 8,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.76, for a total transaction of $518,080.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 29,611 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,917,608.36. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Chairman Charles R. Schwab sold 71,226 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.99, for a total transaction of $4,628,977.74. Following the transaction, the chairman now owns 61,251,038 shares in the company, valued at $3,980,704,959.62. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 122,986 shares of company stock worth $7,878,217 in the last three months. Insiders own 6.60% of the companys stock. Charles Schwab Price Performance SCHW stock traded up $0.04 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $63.62. The company had a trading volume of 1,482,917 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,074,425. The company has a market capitalization of $112.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.00, a P/E/G ratio of 3.40 and a beta of 0.99. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 12-month low of $45.00 and a 12-month high of $81.32. The company has a quick ratio of 0.66, a current ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $65.61 and a 200 day moving average price of $59.95. Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, topping 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 for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.49 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.07 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 18.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.33 earnings per share for the current year. Charles Schwab Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 23rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 9th will be issued a $0.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.57%. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 39.37%. Charles Schwab 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. Rodgers Brothers Inc. bought a new stake in Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC Free Report) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 8,726 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $239,000. Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Bank of America by 5.1% in the third quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. now owns 18,816 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $515,000 after buying an additional 916 shares during the period. Frontier Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of America in the third quarter worth about $276,000. Altshuler Shaham Ltd boosted its position in shares of Bank of America by 6.5% in the third quarter. Altshuler Shaham Ltd now owns 4,756,740 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $130,240,000 after buying an additional 290,413 shares during the period. Brandes Investment Partners LP boosted its position in shares of Bank of America by 3.4% in the third quarter. Brandes Investment Partners LP now owns 4,053,731 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $110,991,000 after buying an additional 134,926 shares during the period. Finally, UniSuper Management Pty Ltd boosted its position in shares of Bank of America by 9.0% in the third quarter. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd now owns 3,231,064 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $88,467,000 after buying an additional 267,051 shares during the period. 68.06% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Bank of America alerts: Bank of America Stock Down 1.3 % Shares of BAC traded down $0.45 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $33.51. The companys stock had a trading volume of 15,354,637 shares, compared to its average volume of 40,835,414. The business has a fifty day moving average of $33.36 and a 200 day moving average of $30.20. The company has a market cap of $265.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 1.39. Bank of America Co. has a 1 year low of $24.96 and a 1 year high of $35.10. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.15. Bank of America Announces Dividend Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.69 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $22 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $23.70 billion. Bank of America had a return on equity of 11.38% and a net margin of 15.42%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 10.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.85 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that Bank of America Co. will post 3.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Investors of record on Friday, March 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.24 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 29th. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.86%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is 31.27%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts recently commented on the company. Barclays boosted their price target on Bank of America from $39.00 to $43.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on Bank of America from $30.00 to $33.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Oppenheimer upped their price objective on Bank of America from $49.00 to $50.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on Bank of America from $37.00 to $36.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upgraded Bank of America from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and increased their price target for the stock from $29.00 to $30.00 in a research report on Monday, November 6th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $35.53. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on BAC Insider Buying and Selling In other news, major shareholder Of America Corp /De/ Bank acquired 5,398 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 27th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $10.56 per share, for a total transaction of $57,002.88. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 5,398 shares in the company, valued at $57,002.88. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 0.27% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Bank of America Company Profile (Free Report) Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional and money market savings accounts, certificates of deposit and IRAs, noninterest-and interest-bearing checking accounts, and investment accounts and products; and credit and debit cards, residential mortgages, and home equity loans, as well as direct and indirect loans, such as automotive, recreational vehicle, and consumer personal loans. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Bank of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Guardian Capital LP increased its holdings in Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report) by 49.8% during the third quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 26,766 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 8,900 shares during the quarter. Guardian Capital LPs holdings in Duke Energy were worth $2,362,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. CKW Financial Group acquired a new stake in shares of Duke Energy during the third quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Chilton Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Duke Energy during the first quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Horizon Bancorp Inc. IN grew its position in Duke Energy by 200.0% during the second quarter. Horizon Bancorp Inc. IN now owns 312 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 208 shares in the last quarter. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Duke Energy during the third quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Finally, Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in Duke Energy during the first quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 63.68% of the companys stock. Get Duke Energy alerts: Insider Activity at Duke Energy In related news, EVP Louis E. Renjel sold 3,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.57, for a total transaction of $277,710.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 14,213 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,315,697.41. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes DUK has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Duke Energy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 29th. Royal Bank of Canada raised shares of Duke Energy from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $101.00 to $113.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on shares of Duke Energy from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of Duke Energy from $101.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, February 12th. Finally, Evercore ISI raised shares of Duke Energy from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $90.00 to $108.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $100.00. Read Our Latest Analysis on DUK Duke Energy Stock Performance Shares of NYSE DUK traded up $1.06 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $93.00. 794,205 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,045,344. The firm has a market capitalization of $71.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.91, a P/E/G ratio of 2.92 and a beta of 0.48. Duke Energy Co. has a one year low of $83.06 and a one year high of $100.39. The companys 50 day moving average is $96.00 and its 200 day moving average is $92.30. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 0.74 and a quick ratio of 0.49. Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The utilities provider reported $1.51 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.53 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $7.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.24 billion. Duke Energy had a net margin of 9.78% and a return on equity of 8.93%. Duke Energys revenue for the quarter was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.11 earnings per share. On average, research analysts expect that Duke Energy Co. will post 5.97 EPS for the current year. Duke Energy Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 18th. Investors of record on Friday, February 16th will be paid a dividend of $1.025 per share. This represents a $4.10 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.41%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 15th. Duke Energys payout ratio is currently 115.49%. About Duke Energy (Free Report) Duke Energy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Electric Utilities and Infrastructure (EU&I) and Gas Utilities and Infrastructure (GU&I). The EU&I segment generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity in the Carolinas, Florida, and the Midwest; and uses coal, hydroelectric, natural gas, oil, solar and wind sources, renewables, and nuclear fuel to generate electricity. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DUK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Duke Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Duke Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Guardian Capital LP trimmed its holdings in shares of RTX Co. (NYSE:RTX Free Report) by 27.5% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 14,483 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,500 shares during the period. Guardian Capital LPs holdings in RTX were worth $1,042,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Waverly Advisors LLC boosted its stake in RTX by 2.2% in the first quarter. Waverly Advisors LLC now owns 5,686 shares of the companys stock valued at $557,000 after acquiring an additional 122 shares during the period. Ironwood Wealth Management LLC. increased its holdings in shares of RTX by 1.2% in the first quarter. Ironwood Wealth Management LLC. now owns 10,761 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,066,000 after buying an additional 128 shares in the last quarter. First Interstate Bank raised its stake in RTX by 2.2% during the 3rd quarter. First Interstate Bank now owns 6,088 shares of the companys stock valued at $438,000 after purchasing an additional 131 shares during the period. Strong Tower Advisory Services raised its stake in RTX by 0.9% during the 3rd quarter. Strong Tower Advisory Services now owns 15,040 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,082,000 after purchasing an additional 139 shares during the period. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC raised its stake in RTX by 13.6% during the 3rd quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 1,162 shares of the companys stock valued at $84,000 after purchasing an additional 139 shares during the period. 79.06% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get RTX alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of RTX from $83.00 to $86.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 25th. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of RTX from $75.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. Redburn Atlantic cut shares of RTX from an overweight rating to a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, November 15th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut shares of RTX from a hold rating to a sell rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from $79.00 to $68.00 in a report on Friday, October 27th. Finally, StockNews.com cut shares of RTX from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 25th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have given a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, RTX currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $91.71. Insider Buying and Selling at RTX In other RTX news, CFO Neil G. Mitchill, Jr. sold 1,545 shares of the firms 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 sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, insider Shane G. Eddy sold 35,456 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.19, for a total value of $3,233,232.64. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 6,741 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $614,711.79. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Neil G. Mitchill, Jr. sold 1,545 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.36, for a total transaction of $142,696.20. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 49,894 shares in the company, valued at $4,608,209.84. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 37,680 shares of company stock valued at $3,438,681. 0.11% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. RTX Price Performance Shares of NYSE RTX traded down $0.23 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $90.75. 1,905,229 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 7,584,871. The company has a market cap of $120.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 40.55, a PEG ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 0.89. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $87.11 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $82.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a current ratio of 1.04. RTX Co. has a twelve month low of $68.56 and a twelve month high of $104.91. RTX (NYSE:RTX Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 23rd. The company reported $1.29 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.25 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $19.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $19.74 billion. RTX had a net margin of 4.64% and a return on equity of 10.34%. The companys revenue was up 10.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.27 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that RTX Co. will post 5.39 EPS for the current fiscal year. RTX Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 21st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 23rd will be paid a dividend of $0.59 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 22nd. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.60%. RTXs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 105.36%. RTX Company 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. See Also 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. Shares of Elastic (NYSE:ESTC Get Free Report) traded down 5.8% during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $117.60 and last traded at $118.06. 303,385 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 77% from the average session volume of 1,301,324 shares. The stock had previously closed at $125.38. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of analysts have recently commented on the company. Rosenblatt Securities boosted their price target on Elastic from $80.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 1st. Wells Fargo & Company raised Elastic from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and upped their price objective for the company from $90.00 to $108.00 in a research report on Friday, December 1st. Barclays upped their price objective on Elastic from $110.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday. Piper Sandler upped their price objective on Elastic from $84.00 to $105.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, December 1st. Finally, Scotiabank started coverage on Elastic in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. They issued a sector outperform rating on the stock. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Elastic presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $96.28. Get Elastic alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on ESTC Elastic Price Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 1.89 and a current ratio of 1.89. The stock has a market cap of $11.97 billion, a PE ratio of -63.00 and a beta of 0.95. The stocks 50-day moving average is $117.34 and its two-hundred day moving average is $91.35. Elastic (NYSE:ESTC Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 30th. The company reported $0.37 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.24 by $0.13. Elastic had a negative net margin of 16.62% and a negative return on equity of 30.65%. The company had revenue of $311.00 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $304.44 million. During the same quarter last year, the company posted ($0.50) EPS. The firms revenue was up 17.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts predict that Elastic will post -1.17 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Activity In other news, Director Shelley B. Leibowitz sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.53, for a total value of $115,530.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 5,577 shares in the company, valued at approximately $644,310.81. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, Director Shelley B. Leibowitz sold 1,000 shares of Elastic stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.53, for a total transaction of $115,530.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 5,577 shares in the company, valued at approximately $644,310.81. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CTO Shay Banon sold 89,995 shares of Elastic stock in a transaction on Monday, December 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $116.10, for a total transaction of $10,448,419.50. Following the sale, the chief technology officer now owns 4,520,036 shares in the company, valued at $524,776,179.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 128,867 shares of company stock worth $14,928,615. 18.10% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Elastic Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in ESTC. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Elastic by 17.2% in the first quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 5,780 shares of the companys stock valued at $514,000 after acquiring an additional 848 shares in the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Elastic by 9.5% in the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 6,472 shares of the companys stock valued at $576,000 after acquiring an additional 564 shares in the last quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund purchased a new stake in Elastic during the first quarter worth about $295,000. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its holdings in Elastic by 3.2% during the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 72,555 shares of the companys stock worth $6,454,000 after buying an additional 2,274 shares in the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. boosted its holdings in Elastic by 4.8% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 5,616,149 shares of the companys stock worth $499,557,000 after buying an additional 259,742 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 74.66% of the companys stock. About Elastic (Get Free Report) Elastic N.V., a data analytics company, delivers solutions designed to run in public or private clouds in multi-cloud environments. It primarily offers Elastic Stack, a set of software products that ingest and store data from various sources and formats, as well as performs search, analysis, and visualization on that data. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Elastic Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Elastic and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Guardian Capital LP cut its holdings in Dollar General Co. (NYSE:DG Free Report) by 33.3% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 5,125 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,563 shares during the period. Guardian Capital LPs holdings in Dollar General were worth $542,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV grew its stake in Dollar General by 70.5% during the third quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 237 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 98 shares in the last quarter. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Dollar General during the 2nd quarter worth about $25,000. First Manhattan Co. boosted its stake in shares of Dollar General by 447.4% during the 4th quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 104 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 85 shares during the period. Financial Freedom LLC purchased a new position in shares of Dollar General during the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. Finally, Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL bought a new stake in Dollar General during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. 90.37% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Dollar General alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Telsey Advisory Group restated a market perform rating and issued a $124.00 price target on shares of Dollar General in a report on Monday, December 4th. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on shares of Dollar General from $114.00 to $127.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, December 8th. Raymond James cut their price objective on shares of Dollar General from $160.00 to $150.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 22nd. Barclays raised shares of Dollar General from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $124.00 to $154.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 4th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Dollar General from $108.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Monday, January 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fifteen have given a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Dollar General currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $146.32. Dollar General Price Performance Shares of NYSE:DG traded down $0.53 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $141.96. The companys stock had a trading volume of 491,607 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,252,904. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $134.21 and its 200 day simple moving average is $129.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.13 and a current ratio of 1.22. The company has a market cap of $31.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.35, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.63 and a beta of 0.39. Dollar General Co. has a 12-month low of $101.09 and a 12-month high of $227.74. Dollar General (NYSE:DG Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, December 7th. The company reported $1.26 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.19 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $9.69 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.64 billion. Dollar General had a net margin of 4.91% and a return on equity of 31.68%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 2.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.33 earnings per share. On average, analysts forecast that Dollar General Co. will post 7.45 EPS for the current year. Dollar General Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, January 23rd. Investors of record on Tuesday, January 9th were given a dividend of $0.59 per share. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.66%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, January 8th. Dollar Generals payout ratio is currently 27.16%. Dollar General Profile (Free Report) Dollar General Corporation, a discount retailer, provides various merchandise products in the southern, southwestern, midwestern, and eastern United States. It offers consumable products, including paper and cleaning products, such as paper towels, bath tissues, paper dinnerware, trash and storage bags, disinfectants, and laundry products; packaged food comprising cereals, pasta, canned soups, fruits and vegetables, condiments, spices, sugar, and flour; and perishables that include milk, eggs, bread, refrigerated and frozen food, beer, and wine. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dollar General Co. (NYSE:DG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Dollar General Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dollar General and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RI cut its stake in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 10.0% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 103,767 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 11,470 shares during the period. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RIs holdings in Pfizer were worth $3,442,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 559.2% during the 2nd quarter. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. now owns 501 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $14,919,000 after buying an additional 425 shares in the last quarter. Worth Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 1st quarter valued at $29,000. Briaud Financial Planning Inc purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 3rd quarter valued at $30,000. Sanctuary Wealth Management L.L.C. purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 4th quarter valued at $50,000. Finally, Mizuho Securities Co. Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 3rd quarter valued at $34,000. 68.05% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Pfizer alerts: Pfizer Price Performance Shares of PFE traded down $0.12 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $27.47. 10,051,992 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 42,358,242. The stock has a market cap of $155.11 billion, a PE ratio of 76.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.23 and a beta of 0.62. The company has a current ratio of 2.38, a quick ratio of 2.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $28.00 and its 200-day simple moving average is $30.96. Pfizer Inc. has a 12 month low of $25.76 and a 12 month high of $42.88. Pfizer Increases Dividend Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.19) by $0.29. The firm had revenue of $14.25 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $14.37 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 10.61% and a net margin of 3.62%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 41.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.14 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.22 EPS for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Friday, January 26th will be issued a dividend of $0.42 per share. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.12%. This is a boost from Pfizers previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, January 25th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 466.67%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Truist Financial cut their price target on Pfizer from $42.00 to $36.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on Pfizer from $39.00 to $37.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, November 1st. Barclays cut their price target on Pfizer from $34.00 to $28.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. UBS Group cut their price target on Pfizer from $34.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Finally, TD Cowen downgraded Pfizer from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $32.00 target price for the company. in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Pfizer has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $36.93. Read Our Latest Analysis on PFE Insider Activity at Pfizer In other news, Director Scott Gottlieb acquired 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 15th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $26.47 per share, with a total value of $79,410.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 9,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $238,230. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 0.05% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Pfizer Profile (Free Report) Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Azerbaijan and the United States discussed increasing gas supply to Europe Azernews reports, citing the post shared by Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan Energy Minister, on his official X account. "At the White House, we discussed the development of the SGC, the increase of gas supplies to Europe, the Green Energy export, and the reduction of methane emissions in a meeting with Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate and Energy," the minister said. Musicians perform during a concert celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year by the New York Philharmonic in New York, the United States, Feb. 20, 2024. The New York Philharmonic (NY Phil) illuminated Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall here on Tuesday with a vibrant concert, marking the Year of the Dragon in glorious fashion. This marked the 12th consecutive year of the NY Phil celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, a tradition introduced in 2012 by Chinese conductor Yu Long. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) by Xinhua writers Yang Shilong, Xing Yue NEW YORK, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The New York Philharmonic (NY Phil) illuminated Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall here on Tuesday with a vibrant concert, marking the Year of the Dragon in glorious fashion. This marked the 12th consecutive year of the NY Phil celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, a tradition introduced in 2012 by Chinese conductor Yu Long. Tuesday's celebration brought the orchestra in "a full dragon to dragon lunar cycle, and we're so happy about this," said Gary Ginstling, president and CEO of the philharmonic, in an earlier interview with Xinhua. The annual event is one of the high points on NY Phil's schedule every year as it welcomes people from all over the world, he said. "We are sort of connecting the United States and China through our music. Regardless of what's happening in the world, around us, or the challenges between our countries, this connection between music is so important to us and will remain so," said Ginstling. The centerpiece of the evening was the world premiere of "Lunar Overture" by acclaimed film composer Elliot Leung, a piece that encapsulated the spirit of the New Year festivities. Additionally, excerpts from Zhou Tian's "Transcend," composed in 2019 to honor the 150th anniversary of the First Transcontinental Railroad, further enriched the program. Classical violinist Clara-Jumi Kang graced the NY Phil stage for the first time as the soloist in Bruch's beloved "Violin Concerto No. 1." Adding a touch of whimsy, Saint-Saens's "Carnival of the Animals" came to life with narration by Jamie Bernstein, accompanied by pianists Clayton Stephenson and Serena Wang. "I thought it was incredibly energetic and exciting," Hayley Bond, a vocalist and NY Phil enthusiast, told Xinhua, reflecting on the evening's program. "I do think that celebrating the Lunar New Year in New York is a really special thing," said Bond. "The more people can exchange their experience and their traditions and their heritage and their stories, the better music and art becomes." Bond purposefully wore red for the occasion, a ceremonial color for the traditional Chinese festival that calls for good fortune. Musicians perform during a concert celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year by the New York Philharmonic in New York, the United States, Feb. 20, 2024. The New York Philharmonic (NY Phil) illuminated Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall here on Tuesday with a vibrant concert, marking the Year of the Dragon in glorious fashion. This marked the 12th consecutive year of the NY Phil celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, a tradition introduced in 2012 by Chinese conductor Yu Long. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) Musicians perform during a concert celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year by the New York Philharmonic in New York, the United States, Feb. 20, 2024. The New York Philharmonic (NY Phil) illuminated Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall here on Tuesday with a vibrant concert, marking the Year of the Dragon in glorious fashion. This marked the 12th consecutive year of the NY Phil celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, a tradition introduced in 2012 by Chinese conductor Yu Long. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) Musicians perform during a concert celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year by the New York Philharmonic in New York, the United States, Feb. 20, 2024. The New York Philharmonic (NY Phil) illuminated Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall here on Tuesday with a vibrant concert, marking the Year of the Dragon in glorious fashion. This marked the 12th consecutive year of the NY Phil celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, a tradition introduced in 2012 by Chinese conductor Yu Long. (Photo by Winston Zhou/Xinhua) Stelac Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWM Free Report) during the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 4,979 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $103,000. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 2,867.8% in the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 847,152 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $16,952,000 after purchasing an additional 818,607 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 65.8% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 518,780 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $10,381,000 after purchasing an additional 205,894 shares in the last quarter. UBS Group AG raised its stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 20.2% during the 1st quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 516,751 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $11,456,000 after acquiring an additional 86,679 shares in the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC raised its stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 42.1% during the 2nd quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 385,929 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $7,722,000 after acquiring an additional 114,300 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Jane Street Group LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF during the 2nd quarter worth $7,761,000. 78.84% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Price Performance NYSEARCA:EWM traded down $0.07 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $21.59. 63,264 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 381,115. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $21.22 and a 200 day simple moving average of $21.08. iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF has a fifty-two week low of $19.84 and a fifty-two week high of $22.55. About iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Malaysia Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Malaysian market, as measured by the MSCI Malaysia Index (the Index). Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. True Wealth Design LLC lowered its stake in shares of HF Sinclair Co. (NYSE:DINO Free Report) by 20.5% in the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 14,250 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,684 shares during the quarter. True Wealth Design LLCs holdings in HF Sinclair were worth $811,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in DINO. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in HF Sinclair by 2.4% in the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 15,396,848 shares of the companys stock worth $686,853,000 after acquiring an additional 357,510 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of HF Sinclair by 4.0% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,799,193 shares of the companys stock worth $796,789,000 after purchasing an additional 571,178 shares during the last quarter. Capital World Investors boosted its stake in HF Sinclair by 8.7% during the 2nd quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 13,584,421 shares of the companys stock valued at $606,001,000 after purchasing an additional 1,088,227 shares during the period. State Street Corp acquired a new stake in HF Sinclair in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $308,240,000. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP increased its position in HF Sinclair by 2.5% in the 2nd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 5,155,341 shares of the companys stock worth $229,976,000 after buying an additional 126,016 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.15% of the companys stock. Get HF Sinclair alerts: Insider Transactions at HF Sinclair In related news, Director James H. Lee sold 2,643 shares of HF Sinclair stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $52.30, for a total transaction of $138,228.90. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 65,919 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,447,563.70. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, Director James H. Lee sold 2,643 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, December 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $52.30, for a total transaction of $138,228.90. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 65,919 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,447,563.70. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Franklin Myers purchased 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, December 5th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $54.79 per share, with a total value of $273,950.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 127,613 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,991,916.27. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 0.26% of the stock is owned by insiders. HF Sinclair Price Performance NYSE DINO traded down $0.80 on Wednesday, reaching $58.56. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,453,874 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,773,662. HF Sinclair Co. has a 52 week low of $37.12 and a 52 week high of $62.20. The company has a current ratio of 2.13, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27. The firm has a market cap of $10.52 billion, a PE ratio of 5.14, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.28. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $55.95 and a 200 day moving average price of $55.82. HF Sinclair (NYSE:DINO Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 21st. The company reported $0.87 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.72 by $0.15. The company had revenue of $7.66 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.05 billion. HF Sinclair had a return on equity of 21.92% and a net margin of 6.73%. The companys revenue was down 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.97 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that HF Sinclair Co. will post 9.39 EPS for the current year. HF Sinclair Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 5th. Stockholders of record on Monday, February 26th will be paid a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.42%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, February 23rd. This is an increase from HF Sinclairs previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. HF Sinclairs payout ratio is currently 15.57%. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, UBS Group upgraded shares of HF Sinclair from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $64.00 to $73.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $63.70. Read Our Latest Report on HF Sinclair HF Sinclair Profile (Free Report) HF Sinclair Corporation operates as an independent energy company. It produces and markets gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, renewable diesel, specialty lubricant products, specialty chemicals, specialty and modified asphalt, and others. The company also owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming; and markets its refined products principally in the Southwest United States and Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest, and in other neighboring Plains states. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DINO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for HF Sinclair Co. (NYSE:DINO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for HF Sinclair Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for HF Sinclair and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rice Partnership LLC trimmed its position in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report) by 4.8% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 27,846 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 1,398 shares during the period. Rice Partnership LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $2,697,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Halpern Financial Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 3rd quarter valued at about $26,000. Altshuler Shaham Ltd purchased a new position in Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 2nd quarter worth $28,000. CGC Financial Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 2nd quarter worth $32,000. Finally, FWL Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter worth $33,000. 73.70% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Abbott Laboratories alerts: Abbott Laboratories Trading Up 0.5 % Shares of ABT stock traded up $0.54 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $117.18. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,468,026 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,462,286. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $111.79 and its 200-day simple moving average is $104.06. Abbott Laboratories has a 12-month low of $89.67 and a 12-month high of $117.86. The company has a quick ratio of 1.23, a current ratio of 1.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The firm has a market capitalization of $203.43 billion, a PE ratio of 36.12, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.75 and a beta of 0.75. Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.19 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $1.19. The company had revenue of $10.24 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.19 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 14.27% and a return on equity of 20.65%. The companys revenue was up 1.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.03 EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.61 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Investors of record on Monday, April 15th will be issued a $0.55 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 12th. This represents a $2.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.88%. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is currently 67.48%. Insider Activity In related news, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 42,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, January 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.50, for a total transaction of $4,781,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 65,027 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,315,537.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 42,500 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.50, for a total value of $4,781,250.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 65,027 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,315,537.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 15,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, December 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $108.00, for a total transaction of $1,620,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 65,027 shares in the company, valued at $7,022,916. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on ABT shares. Citigroup increased their price objective on Abbott Laboratories from $123.00 to $126.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $128.00 target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Wednesday, February 14th. TheStreet raised Abbott Laboratories from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research report on Thursday, December 21st. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $116.00 to $121.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, Barclays boosted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $133.00 to $141.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $120.00. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on ABT About Abbott Laboratories (Free Report) Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Meniere's disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Abbott Laboratories Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Abbott Laboratories and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rice Partnership LLC grew its holdings in shares of Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI Free Report) by 40.6% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 5,416 shares of the communications equipment providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,563 shares during the quarter. Rice Partnership LLCs holdings in Motorola Solutions were worth $1,474,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in MSI. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC bought a new stake in Motorola Solutions in the second quarter valued at $33,000. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL bought a new stake in Motorola Solutions in the first quarter valued at $35,000. Tortoise Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in Motorola Solutions by 1,140.0% in the second quarter. Tortoise Investment Management LLC now owns 124 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 114 shares in the last quarter. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in Motorola Solutions in the second quarter valued at $39,000. Finally, Steward Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in Motorola Solutions in the second quarter valued at $39,000. 82.37% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Motorola Solutions alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently commented on the stock. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Motorola Solutions in a report on Friday, February 9th. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of Motorola Solutions from $333.00 to $352.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Motorola Solutions from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 12th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft assumed coverage on shares of Motorola Solutions in a report on Friday, January 19th. They set a buy rating and a $350.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Motorola Solutions currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $328.29. Motorola Solutions Stock Performance NYSE:MSI traded up $0.38 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $323.42. The companys stock had a trading volume of 213,482 shares, compared to its average volume of 644,506. Motorola Solutions, Inc. has a 12-month low of $255.85 and a 12-month high of $333.00. The firms fifty day moving average price is $318.77 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $301.33. The company has a current ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.37. The stock has a market cap of $53.73 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.53, a PEG ratio of 2.97 and a beta of 0.92. Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The communications equipment provider reported $3.90 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.63 by $0.27. Motorola Solutions had a return on equity of 441.65% and a net margin of 17.12%. The business had revenue of $2.85 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.82 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $3.38 EPS. Motorola Solutionss revenue was up 5.2% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts forecast that Motorola Solutions, Inc. will post 11.7 EPS for the current fiscal year. Motorola Solutions Profile (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 Articles 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. Cushman & Wakefield plc (NYSE:CWK Get Free Report) was down 8.4% on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $10.16 and last traded at $10.20. Approximately 2,370,688 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 21% from the average daily volume of 1,956,280 shares. The stock had previously closed at $11.14. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of brokerages have recently commented on CWK. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Cushman & Wakefield from $11.00 to $9.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, November 22nd. Wolfe Research raised shares of Cushman & Wakefield from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $12.00 price objective on the stock in a report on Friday, December 8th. Finally, Raymond James raised their price objective on shares of Cushman & Wakefield from $11.00 to $12.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $10.58. Get Cushman & Wakefield alerts: View Our Latest Analysis on Cushman & Wakefield Cushman & Wakefield Price Performance The firms 50-day moving average is $10.41 and its two-hundred day moving average is $9.00. The company has a market cap of $2.27 billion, a P/E ratio of -30.73 and a beta of 1.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.99, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 1.18. Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE:CWK Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 20th. The company reported $0.45 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.39 by $0.06. Cushman & Wakefield had a negative net margin of 0.79% and a positive return on equity of 12.01%. The business had revenue of $2.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.78 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.46 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 3.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that Cushman & Wakefield plc will post 0.77 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Activity In other news, insider Nathaniel Robinson sold 20,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, December 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $8.82, for a total transaction of $176,400.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 29,459 shares of the companys stock, valued at $259,828.38. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 1.24% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of Cushman & Wakefield Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in Cushman & Wakefield by 108.3% in the 1st quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 2,500 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after buying an additional 1,300 shares during the period. CWM LLC grew its stake in shares of Cushman & Wakefield by 181.0% during the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 5,182 shares of the companys stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 3,338 shares during the period. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. grew its stake in shares of Cushman & Wakefield by 3,128.2% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 2,292 shares of the companys stock worth $46,000 after purchasing an additional 2,221 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC purchased a new position in shares of Cushman & Wakefield during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $50,000. Finally, Dark Forest Capital Management LP purchased a new position in shares of Cushman & Wakefield during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $62,000. 90.47% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Cushman & Wakefield (Get Free Report) Cushman & Wakefield plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides commercial real estate services under the Cushman & Wakefield brand in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company operates through Americas; Europe, Middle East, and Africa; and Asia Pacific segments. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Cushman & Wakefield Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cushman & Wakefield and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. 1623 Capital LLC raised its holdings in shares of NVR, Inc. (NYSE:NVR Free Report) by 0.2% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,293 shares of the construction companys stock after buying an additional 3 shares during the period. NVR comprises 3.3% of 1623 Capital LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 10th largest position. 1623 Capital LLCs holdings in NVR were worth $7,711,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Evergreen Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in NVR by 2.3% in the second quarter. Evergreen Wealth Management LLC now owns 89 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $568,000 after acquiring an additional 2 shares in the last quarter. New York Life Investment Management LLC increased its stake in NVR by 0.4% during the second quarter. New York Life Investment Management LLC now owns 479 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $3,042,000 after purchasing an additional 2 shares during the last quarter. Advisor OS LLC increased its stake in NVR by 0.7% during the second quarter. Advisor OS LLC now owns 295 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,873,000 after purchasing an additional 2 shares during the last quarter. Personal CFO Solutions LLC increased its stake in NVR by 1.7% during the second quarter. Personal CFO Solutions LLC now owns 120 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $762,000 after purchasing an additional 2 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald L. P. increased its stake in NVR by 0.8% during the second quarter. Cantor Fitzgerald L. P. now owns 258 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,638,000 after purchasing an additional 2 shares during the last quarter. 84.49% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get NVR alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several research firms have weighed in on NVR. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upgraded shares of NVR from a sell rating to a hold rating and boosted their target price for the company from $4,900.00 to $6,300.00 in a research note on Friday, December 8th. StockNews.com lowered shares of NVR from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. Insider Buying and Selling at NVR In other NVR news, Chairman Paul C. Saville sold 1,700 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $6,100.57, for a total transaction of $10,370,969.00. Following the transaction, the chairman now owns 106,860 shares in the company, valued at $651,906,910.20. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, CFO Daniel David Malzahn sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $7,252.83, for a total value of $14,505,660.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 13,209 shares of the companys stock, valued at $95,802,631.47. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Paul C. Saville sold 1,700 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $6,100.57, for a total value of $10,370,969.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now directly owns 106,860 shares of the companys stock, valued at $651,906,910.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 7,579 shares of company stock worth $53,775,515 over the last 90 days. Insiders own 8.60% of the companys stock. NVR Price Performance NYSE NVR traded down $72.36 on Wednesday, reaching $7,347.66. The companys stock had a trading volume of 10,130 shares, compared to its average volume of 19,481. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 3.90 and a current ratio of 6.10. NVR, Inc. has a twelve month low of $5,021.73 and a twelve month high of $7,617.24. The stock has a market cap of $23.44 billion, a PE ratio of 16.02, a PEG ratio of 3.55 and a beta of 1.12. The firms 50 day moving average is $7,130.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $6,443.31. NVR (NYSE:NVR Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 30th. The construction company reported $121.56 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $121.50 by $0.06. NVR had a return on equity of 38.50% and a net margin of 17.09%. The firm had revenue of $2.39 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.61 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $133.44 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 10.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that NVR, Inc. will post 471.75 EPS for the current year. NVR declared that its Board of Directors has approved a stock repurchase program on Thursday, November 9th that permits the company to repurchase $750.00 million in shares. This repurchase authorization permits the construction company to purchase up to 4% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares repurchase programs are typically an indication that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued. NVR Company Profile (Free Report) NVR, Inc operates as a homebuilder in the United States. The company operates through, Homebuilding and Mortgage Banking segments. It engages in the construction and sale of single-family detached homes, townhomes, and condominium buildings under the Ryan Homes, NVHomes, and Heartland Homes names. The company markets its Ryan Homes products to first-time and first-time move-up buyers; and NVHomes and Heartland Homes products to move-up and luxury buyers. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for NVR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NVR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. DAMASCUS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli missile strike hit a residential building in an upscale neighborhood in the capital Damascus on Wednesday morning, state media and witnesses said. State news agency SANA said the strike hit a residential building in the Kafar Sousah neighborhood, providing no further details. Meanwhile, sources and eyewitnesses told Xinhua that the Israeli attack targeted a residential apartment near the Cham City Center shopping mall and an Iranian school in Kafar Sousah. The missiles hit the fifth and fourth floors of the building, with preliminary information indicating injuries. Sources said Israel missile strikes have become a routine in Syria and hitting residential areas usually implies an assassination attempt. This photo taken on Feb. 21, 2024 shows a scene at the 27th Eurasian Economic Summit in Istanbul, Turkiye. The summit, organized by the Istanbul-based Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation, kicked off here on Wednesday with a focus on solutions to the challenges in global growth. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua) ISTANBUL, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The 27th Eurasian Economic Summit kicked off on Wednesday in Turkiye's cultural and financial hub of Istanbul, with a focus on solutions to the challenges in global growth. Titled "From Crises to Stability, Building an Inclusive World," the summit organized by the Istanbul-based Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation aims to address global issues such as peace, climate change, water supply and artificial intelligence. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan sent a message to the event, highlighting its importance at a time of uncertainty caused by crises across the globe, particularly as ongoing conflicts are undermining global economy. In his message to the summit, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev emphasized the summit's contribution to economic development of regional cooperation. Speaking at the summit's opening, Akkan Suver, head of the host foundation, called on the international community to enhance dialogue and cooperation to find solutions to the world's crises. According to Suver, the world is experiencing a storm of conflicts, problems related to climate change and economic stagnation. "Under these conditions, the Belt and Road Initiative, extending from Asia to Europe, Africa and Latin America, would be our roadmap for peace, unity and cooperation," he said. More than 300 political figures, diplomats, academics and business people from around 40 countries are attending the two-day event. This photo taken on Feb. 21, 2024 shows a scene at the 27th Eurasian Economic Summit in Istanbul, Turkiye. The summit, organized by the Istanbul-based Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation, kicked off here on Wednesday with a focus on solutions to the challenges in global growth. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua) Akkan Suver, head of Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation, speaks at the 27th Eurasian Economic Summit in Istanbul, Turkiye, Feb. 21, 2024. The summit, organized by the Istanbul-based Marmara Group Strategic and Social Research Foundation, kicked off here on Wednesday with a focus on solutions to the challenges in global growth. (Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua) What will happen when talk show meets the Tibetan language? A 22-year-old Tibetan young man has set up a Tibetan-language talk show team in SW China's Xizang, hoping to bring joy to more people. Produced by Xinhua Global Service A scoping paper on how disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) will be for the Irish workforce is being undertaken by the Government. The Irish Governments chief economist John McCarthy said that AI is being viewed as the fourth industrial revolution and will be transformative for the Irish economy. The Department of Finance and the Department of Enterprise are examining the effect the new technology could have, and are working with the team at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that published research in January indicating that 40% of jobs globally will be affected by AI. The Department is expected to publish a scoping paper on the issue by the summer. Mr McCarthy said that digitalisation was evolving rapidly, including the move to remote working during the pandemic and card payments, and now AI was coming at us thick and fast. If you look at previous industrial revolutions, from the spinning wheel to the computer, and economists see AI really as the fourth industrial revolution, there will be job losses, there will be job gains, he said on Wednesday. Some occupations will no longer exist, as was the case back when the spinning wheel was invented, so that will happen. From a policy perspective, the importance is ensuring a smooth transition so that people losing jobs, gain jobs, that they have the requisite skills to move from one sector to the other. Is it a case of complementing labour or substituting labour? We all got computers and suddenly became more productive. We got the spinning wheel 100-200 years ago, we produced more jumpers, we became more productive. The worry is with this new technology, are more jobs going to be lost than are gained? The answer is, nobody knows. The IMF research indicated that in advanced economies, the proportion of jobs that could be affected by AI is higher (60%). I think what we can definitively say about about AI, is that it is going to be transformative. Lets hope its transformative good, and policy has a role to play here, but you cant rule out the possibility of transformative bad, Mr McCarthy said. Zhu Rui adjusts equipment at a laboratory of Institute of Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 12, 2024. On Feb. 18, the first working day after China's Spring Festival holiday, Zhu Rui, founder of medical device company Vivolight, came to the catheter operating room of Beijing Anzhen Hospital to learn about the use of OCT equipment produced by his company. OCT, or optical coherence tomography technology, allows doctors to examine patients and display real-time three-dimensional images where the catheter passes, providing guide for surgery. Since graduating from Tsinghua University in 2006, Zhu has been engaged in OCT related research and product development. His role has changed from a student, a researcher to an entrepreneur. While studying in Beijing, Zhu built an OCT system for ophthalmology. While studying for his PhD in Hong Kong, he realized the potential value of OCT technology in cardiovascular surgery. In 2012, he gave up his doctoral studies and tried to transform the achievements in his research. With the support of Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics of Chinese Academy of Sciences, he founded Vivolight, China's first company focusing on cardiovascular interventional surgery imaging system. In 2017, the OCT equipment developed by Zhu Rui and his team conducted clinical trials for the first time, but doctors' feedback was not good. Therefore, Zhu Rui led the team to the hospital to learn clinical knowledge and learn about the practical needs of doctors. In 2020, after 8 years of continuous upgrades, Zhu's product was finally approved for market, and doctors gave it a high evaluation. In the subsequent mass production process, in order to ensure the quality, Zhu led the research and development personnel to work on the production line. He told reporters that his dream is to make 100 innovative medical device products. (Xinhua/Zhou Dixiao) Zhu Rui (L) talks with a doctor about the use of OCT equipment at Beijing Anzhen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) This photo taken on Jan. 12, 2024 shows a portrait of Zhu Rui. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui (L) talks with a researcher at a laboratory of Institute of Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhou Dixiao) Zhu Rui attends a video conference on his way to a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhou Dixiao) Zhu Rui (R) talks with his colleague at a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui (back) observes doctors using OCT equipment at Beijing Anzhen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui and his colleagues discuss the research progress of OCT technology at a laboratory of a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui (R) learns about the use of OCT equipment at Beijing Anzhen Hospital in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui adjusts OCT equipment at a laboratory of a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui attends a video conference with experts at a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui (R) talks with his partner Dr. Mi Lei in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) Zhu Rui (R) tests a new generation of OCT equipment at a laboratory of a branch office of Vivolight in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang) BRUSSELS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- A Belgian animal park on Tuesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this year. Tian Bao, born in 2016, and twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019, will leave Pairi Daiza Park in Hainault in the autumn of 2024. "Our three 'baby' pandas, cherished by all since their arrival, will have to leave Pairi Daiza in 2024," the park said in a statement. "However, we have been incredibly fortunate to have them with us for over 4 years (for Bao Di and Bao Mei) and almost 8 years (for Tian Bao)." The sending of the pandas to China is part of an initial agreement between Pairi Daiza and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA). When the parents of the three pandas, Hao Hao and Xing Hui, arrived in Belgium in 2014, a 15-year loan had been agreed. This agreement also stipulated that all descendants of the panda couple born in Belgium would go to China at the age of four, to participate in breeding and conservation programs for the species. However, the process of Tian Bao's return to China has been delayed by the restrictive measures against the coronavirus pandemic. The departure of the three pandas marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Pairi Daiza and China to protect the giant panda. "The departure of the three 'little' pandas is a further step in our commitment to the conservation of this emblematic species," the park said. Pairi Daiza is encouraging visitors to come and enjoy the last few months of Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei's presence. The park will organize special events to celebrate the three pandas' birthdays and say goodbye. GAZA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 Palestinians were killed and more than 34 others injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, local medical sources told Xinhua on Wednesday. The sources added that rescue efforts are still ongoing, and the casualties include women and children. The recovered victims were all transferred to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the city of Deir el-Balah, the sources added. Eyewitnesses told Xinhua that an Israeli warplane fired several missiles at the house sheltering several displaced families. The massive blast brought down the building and caused severe damage to neighboring houses in the western part of the camp. Meanwhile, the Palestinian death toll from Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip has risen to 29,313, with 69,333 others wounded, as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday. People attend the funeral of two civilians killed by an Israeli airstrike in Majdal Zoun, Lebanon, on Feb. 22, 2024. Two civilians were killed and three others injured during Israeli raids targeting southwest Lebanon on Wednesday, Lebanese medical and military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Two civilians were killed and three others injured during Israeli raids targeting southwest Lebanon on Wednesday, Lebanese medical and military sources told Xinhua. According to official sources, rescue and ambulance teams equipped with bulldozers and cranes were sent to remove the rubble of several homes that were targeted in Majdal Zoun, Al-Mansouri, and Khiam, and to transport the injured to nearby hospitals. Lebanese military sources told Xinhua that Israel carried out 12 air strikes on seven towns and villages in southern Lebanon and fired 35 shells on 13 towns and villages in the south, destroying eight homes and damaging 24 others. The Lebanon-Israel border has been witnessing increased tension since Oct. 8, 2023, after Lebanese armed group Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets toward Israel in support of the Hamas attack on Israel the previous day, prompting Israel to respond by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. The confrontations between Hezbollah and Israel have killed 305 people on the Lebanese side, including 205 Hezbollah members and 59 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources. People attend the funeral of two civilians killed by an Israeli airstrike in Majdal Zoun, Lebanon, on Feb. 22, 2024. Two civilians were killed and three others injured during Israeli raids targeting southwest Lebanon on Wednesday, Lebanese medical and military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) People attend the funeral of two civilians killed by an Israeli airstrike in Majdal Zoun, Lebanon, on Feb. 22, 2024. Two civilians were killed and three others injured during Israeli raids targeting southwest Lebanon on Wednesday, Lebanese medical and military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua) KIEV, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The first group of four Ukrainian pilots will complete their training on the F-16 jets by summer, the Ukrinform news agency reported Wednesday. The pilots started their training to fly F-16 jets in October last year in the U.S. city of Tucson, Arizona. The second and the third groups of four Ukrainian pilots each are expected to complete their F-16 training by the end of August. In July last year, Ukraine signed a memorandum with 11 countries to create a coalition for training Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 fighters. The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway and Belgium have pledged to transfer F-16s to Ukraine to help the country upgrade its combat aircraft fleet amid the conflict with Russia. VILNIUS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Lithuanian government decided on Wednesday to close the Lavoriskes and Raigardas border checkpoints on the border with Belarus from March 1, according to the Lithuanian Interior Ministry. As a result, only two border checkpoints -- at Medininkai and Salcininkai -- out of the six will remain open on the Lithuanian-Belarusian border. The border checkpoints at Sumskas and Tverecius have been closed since August 2023. The Lithuanian government also decided to ban pedestrians and cyclists from crossing the border to Belarus at Medininkai and Salcininkai. Also, the government will gradually reduce the number of permits issued to Belarusian and Lithuanian operators of regular bus services to 29 permits at most. Furthermore, restrictions will be introduced for passengers boarding and disembarking transit trains at the Kena and Kybartai railway stations, with any exceptions to be decided by the State Border Guard Service. Currently, there is one border checkpoint open on the Polish-Belarusian border, while two are operating on the Latvian-Belarusian border and four on the Lithuanian-Belarusian border. Esta es la opinion de los internautas, no de Todoliteratura No esta permitido verter comentarios contrarios a la ley o injuriantes. La direccion de email solicitada en ningun caso sera utilizada con fines comerciales. Tu direccion de email no sera publicada. Nos reservamos el derecho a eliminar los comentarios que consideremos fuera de tema. Political consultant Jeff Roe has recently come under fire once again from Kansas City activists, progressives and even tax fighters for his ALLEGED involvement in the campaign for Royals stadium. Here's our basic disagreement with this sketchy premise . . . JEFF ROE'S POLITICAL INFLUENCE DOMINATES KANSAS CITY IN BOTH PROGRESSIVE AND CONSERVATIVE CIRCLES!!! Some of our younger friends still think this is 2004 and Mr. Roe is the mean-old-white-dude they can rage against . . . Here's the big problem with that . . . JEFF ROE'S COMPANIES PROVIDE INFO & CAMPAIGN HELP TO MOST OF THIS COWTOWN'S POLITICOS!!! Mayor Q's team has utilized Remington Research and so many other services provided by Mr. Roe. And so have most urban leaders adored by our revolving cast of progressive malcontents. Basically, any Kansas City candidate who wants to do a mail campaign RIGHT has worked with Axiom whether they know it or not. No Mr. Roe isn't the Keyser Soze of Kansas City politics . . . Everybody knows his formidable reputation. In fact, anybody who partakes in even a modicum of reading should understand Axiom's overwhelming influence in this town that has taken nearly two decades to establish. Crossroads activists hoping to campaign against Jeff Roe are guilty of using OLD, OLD, OLD SCHOOL tactics first developed by cowtown political Machiavelli Steve Glorioso back when he had a job that was better than his current gig: Pushing up daises. And that's our main beef . . . The current campaign against Mr. Roe is outdated and doesn't understand that he is very much part of the Kansas City political mainstream on BOTH sides of the aisle. There isn't a "progressive" or "conservative" case against him because his Axiom operations dominates BOTH sides of the discourse in Kansas City. Ranting against Jeff Roe's involvement is just rehashing an argument aimed at SUCKERS who don't know how politics works around 12th & Oak. If this is the best that the Crossroads can come up with . . . We might as well start standing in line for parking passes now. In fairness, as always, here's a peek at the recent Twitter collage making the rounds via www.TonysKansasCity.com screencaps . . . Developing . . . Right now biz lady, fashionista and author Emrata inspires our peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Local Good Deeds Gear Debuts Charlie Hustle t-shirt donating proceeds to the #KCStrong Fund raises over $50,000 KMBC talked to local t-shirt company Charlie Hustle about how it's getting creative to help raise money Original Dotte Seeks Designation Wyandot Nation of Kansas renews effort to to win federal recognition as a sovereign tribe Federal recognition entails the United States acknowledging a tribe as a separate government entity - denoting their right to self-governance. Currently, the U.S. recognizes 574 tribal nations. For the Wyandot Nation of Kansas to join them, they'll need the support of non-natives like members of Congress. Artsy Tribute Aftermath Parade of Hearts artist sheds light on KC Mothers in Charge's efforts to end gun violence Brooke Jiskra is one of the artists chosen to participate in Parade of Hearts and this year her focus is shedding light on gun violence. Vanishing Asset Warning KCK woman has warning after safe deposit box disappears from bank A Kansas woman is now warning others about the safety of safe deposit boxes when the contents of hers almost disappeared. Puppers Help People Cope Paws & Pals holding open animal therapy sessions for those still coping with Chiefs rally shooting The Independence, Missouri, organization is continuing its unique efforts to help the community heal from traumatic events Modeling Risks Benefit Us All Emily Ratajkowski risks major wardrobe malfunction in low-cut dress in new video MODEL Emily Ratajkowski has barely escaped a major wardrobe malfunction while on a yacht. The famous supermodel ditched the bra as she donned a low-cut white dress in a TikTok video. During the ne... Prez Raises EPIC Cash Biden raised $42 million in January, his campaign says The president set a record with the fundraising total, but his approval ratings remain low amid an expected 2024 general election rematch with Donald Trump. Talker Predicts Cali Winning Rogan says Democratic Party is 'setting up Gavin Newsom' for 2024 presidential run amid Biden scandals Joe Rogan speculated that President Biden's increasing tide of scandals is a sign he will be replaced with the current governor of California, Gavin Newsom. Priceless Political Loyalty Hard To Find A Guy Paid $9,000 for Donald Trump's Sold-Out Sneakers A Biden staffer called Trump's gold high-tops "the closest he'll get to any Air Force One ever again." New Deuce Won't Quit Nikki Haley hasn't yet won a GOP contest. But she's vowing to keep fighting Donald Trump Nikki Haley's allies are bracing for a big loss in her home state's primary election in South Carolina on Saturday. No More Star Wars Sequels Biden admin was working behind closed doors to dissuade Russia from testing space weapon Administration officials say last week's revelations might have jeopardized U.S. efforts to dissuade Russia from moving forward. White House Rebuked Dearborn mayor slams Biden on Israel-Gaza: 'This betrayal feels uniquely un-American' Mayor Abdullah Hammoud (D) of Dearborn, Mich., says that Arab Americans are feeling a sense of betrayal over President Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas war, outlining that they voted for Biden in 2020 but are now being ignored. Hammoud, in a New York Times opinion piece on Tuesday, said there is a "constant fear and mourning" and... Survival Stories Emerge From Eastern Europe Front Ukraine: Trapped and left for dead, injured Ukrainian soldiers in Avdiivka exchanged desperate messages as the town fell | CNN Amid the abrupt withdrawal from Avdiivka, reports have emerged of several injured Ukrainian soldiers who failed to escape - and were later killed as Russian troops reached their position. Holy Land Dilemma Worsens How Israel's war went wrong The conflict in Gaza has become a moral nightmare and strategic mess. It's increasingly clear what - and who - is to blame. Tech Boss Makes New Friends 'Gangster' Sam Bankman-Fried pictured in jail, poses alongside Bloods gang members who calls him 'weird as s-t' A shaggy-haired and bearded Sam Bankman-Fried was pictured alongside a former Bloods gang member in the first jailhouse photo of the disgraced crypto kingpin after he was convicted of fraud. Crypto... Social Media Lady Still Garners Attention I'm cougar & love to show my boobs & body - trolls tell me to 'put it away' A SELF-CONFESSED cougar has hit back at cruel trolls who tell her to "put it away" and date someone her own age. Shawna, who is 50-years-old, can regularly be found posting photos showi... Tribute Trinkets Touch Hearts 'This will bring people together': Friendship bracelets support victims of Chiefs rally shooting Cara Cowsert co-owns Wind + Waves, an online bracelet business. She's making red and yellow bracelets with a heart and selling them for $22, which will go to the victims of the Chiefs rally shooting. Gift Of Life Ongoing Kansas City-area residents donate blood after Super Bowl parade shooting One Kansas City-area Community Blood Center said people were in the parking lot early Monday, waiting for their opportunity to donate blood. Rock Chalk Underground Effort To Save Planet Debuts These ethanol plants want to bury CO2 in Kansas to cut their carbon footprints Kansas has three carbon dioxide pipelines. Next, it could get two carbon sequestration wells, linked to ethanol plants. Here's what we know. Today's Hipster Serving Eat This Now: Taiwanese Fried Chicken at Chewology Chewology // Photo by Sarah Sipple Chewology is nestled on a small corner in Westport, blending contemporary Taiwanese dishes with the Midwestern ideology of supporting local and sustainable ingredients. The atmosphere, price point, and menu rest at the sweet spot of being comfortable for a casual, after-work pop-in for a drink and small plate while also being a special-occasion restaurant... Winter Conclusion Already Spring-like temperatures will be abound over the next week Slim chance of a shower or thunderstorm Wednesday night Gunna - Bittersweet is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. Tonight we've been reading a lot of what local MSM has to offer and there are STILL more questions our blog community is asking. However . . . For now we take a pause to understand the "official" story so far and share more resources. Here's detail that stands out right now . . . Court documents say multiple people started pulling their weapons right before the two groups started shooting with hundreds of people nearby. Prosecutors say this is only the beginning, and there could be more charges to come. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . KKFI hosts Taste of Tejano tribute show for Lisa Lopez-Galvan Kansas City radio host Lisa Lopez-Galvan, killed in the Chiefs' Super Bowl rally shooting, was remembered Tuesday night on her KKFI 90.1 show. Read the probable cause statements for adult suspects charged in Chiefs Parade shooting The Jackson County Prosecutor's Office on Tuesday charged two adult males in connection to last week's Chiefs parade shooting at Union Station. Charges, court docs shed new light on Chiefs parade shooting videos New charges and court documents are giving a better indication of what chaotic video around the Super Bowl parade shooting really shows. Raytown man charged with murder at Super Bowl rally previously displayed weapon in Cass County dispute One of the two men charged with Lisa Lopez-Galvan's murder was charged with disorderly conduct for a past incident involving a gun in Cass County. Friend says Chiefs parade shooting suspect was only protecting him One victim shot in the neck at the Chiefs' Super Bowl rally says his friend was only trying to protect him. Now that man is charged with murder. What we know about 4 parade shooting suspects Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced second-degree murder charges against two people Tuesday in connection to last Wednesday's deadly shooting outside of Union Station. Court documents: At least one gun used in Chiefs parade shooting was stolen On Tuesday, authorities charged Lyndell Mays of Raytown, Missouri, and Dominic Miller of Kansas City, Missouri, with murder in connection to the shooting. Legislator hosts meeting on gun violence following shooting at Chiefs Super Bowl rally Speakers expressed concerns and solutions for gun violence Monday during a public meeting following the shooting at Wednesday's Chiefs Super Bowl victory rally. Lawyers discuss steps into whether prosecutors will charge parents in Chiefs parade shooting Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker has publicly stated she's looking at that possibility and has charged parents previously. Kansas City, Kansas police investigate deadly shooting at 18th, Parallel Parkway Police say one person died and another suffered critical injuries in a shooting at 18th Street and Parallel Parkway. Kansas City nonprofit working with youth steps up after Chiefs rally shooting This tragedy all started with a dispute between juveniles, the very ages that High Aspirations targets Family of Lisa Lopez-Galvan 'grateful' for charges filed in her death The family of Lisa Lopez-Galvan said they're grateful for the efforts of authorities who helped bring charges against her alleged murderers. Lisa Lopez-Galvan's family hoped to lay her to rest in Harrison Butker jersey, Chiefs kicker delivered The family of Lisa Lopez-Galvan hoped to lay her to rest in a Harrison Butker jersey, and the Kansas City Chiefs kicker delivered. Funeral services announced for Lisa Lopez-Galvan, victim of Union Station shooting Funeral services have been announced for Lisa Lopez-Galvan. Developing . . . The deets of today's news CONFIRM our blog community reporting from last night regarding more suspects facing charges . . . TWO ADDITIONAL THUGS SUSPECTS NOW FACE SERIOUS CHARGES IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE KANSAS CITY SUPER BOWL PARADE MASS SHOOTING!!! Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker noted that these are ADDITIONAL charges beyond juveniles charges against two other suspects already under arrest. Here's the word and we'll update as we get more info . . . "Two Kansas City men face murder and other felony charges in connection with the homicide and non-fatal shootings outside Union Station last Wednesday following the parade and rally for the Kansas City Chiefs, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today. "Dominic M Miller of Kansas City and Lyndell Mays of Raytown each face Murder in the 2nd Degree, two counts of Armed Criminal Action and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.* "According to court records, the defendants attended a Super Bowl parade and rally on Feb. 14, 2024, and were armed with firearms. A verbal altercation occurred and gunfire broke out with no regard for thousands of other individuals in the area. "Both defendants are being held on a $1 million bond. " Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Jackson County Prosecutor's Office: Two men charged in the shootings outside Union Station after Chiefs rally 2 men charged with murder, additional felonies in connection with Chiefs parade and rally shooting Jean Peters Baker is holding a press conference at 2 p.m. addressing the Valentine's Day tragedy that left one woman dead and over 20 people injured 2 charged with 2nd-degree murder in connection to Chiefs parade shooting Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced second-degree murder charges against two people Tuesday in connection to last Wednesday's deadly shooting outside of Union Station. 2 adults charged with murder of Lisa Lopez-Galvan at Chiefs parade: 'We are not done yet' The Jackson County Prosecutor's Office charged Dominic Miller and Lyndell Mays with felony murder, after a verbal argument escalated into gunfire near Union Station. Both men have been hospitalized since the shooting. Two charged with murder in connection with death of Lisa Lopez-Galvan after Chiefs parade Lyndell Mays and Dominic Miller were both charged with second-degree murder, as well as two counts of unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. Developing . . . Laman Ismayilova The University of Glasgow Azerbaijan Alumni Association (UGAAA) has hosted Burns Night event at the Shirvanshah Hotel. This special event was dedicated to commemorating the great Scottish poet, Robert Burns, Azernews reports. Speaking at the opening ceremony, UGAAA President Farid Nasirli noted that the University of Glasgow Azerbaijan Alumni Association (UGAAA) was founded in 2023 with the endorsement of the University of Glasgow. The UGAAA proudly stands as a prominent global alumni association of the university. Its primary mission is to cultivate a strong sense of community among University of Glasgow alumni and Azerbaijani alumni affiliated with UK institutions. Additionally, the association is dedicated to building a robust network among its alumni, facilitating meaningful connections during events. The guests of the event were informed about the history and culture of the University of Glasgow. The importance of Burns Night was highlighted as well. Furthermore, poetess and writer Ulviya Akhundova as well as poetess and writer, laureate of the international prize Leili Salaeva recited poems by Scottish poet Robert Burns and Mirza Shafi Vazeh, an outstanding Azerbaijani poet who lived in the 18th and 19th centuries. The event was held in one breath, all the guests were all captured by the warm atmosphere. The guests of the event, including representatives from the British Embassy, UK alumni and members of different organizations were able to network, enjoy a buffet dinner and learn more about Scottish culture together. Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az. NEW DELHI, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Two people died with a few others injured in two different mishaps in India's capital area of Delhi on Wednesday, confirmed local government officials. An 83-year-old woman died after she jumped from the fourth floor of a building which caught fire in South West Delhi's Dwarka area. Another woman who also jumped from the building was injured. A few others received burn injuries in the fire incident. In another incident, one person died when a house under demolition collapsed in South Delhi's Kotla Mubarakpur area. ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Experts have called on African countries to embrace digital identification (ID) systems to unlock economic value equivalent to 3 percent to 7 percent of their gross domestic product (GDP). The call was made by statistics and data experts attending the 12th StatsTalk-Africa Webinar organized Tuesday by the African Center for Statistics at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) under the theme "Building Inclusive National Identity Systems - Inter-linking digital identity and legal identity." Mactar Seck, chief of the Innovation and Technology Section at the UNECA, said digital ID can create economic value for countries primarily by enabling greater formalization of economic flows, promoting higher inclusion of individuals in a range of services, and allowing incremental digitization of sensitive interactions that require high levels of trust. "The successful implementation of digital ID systems requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach, considering the specific needs and challenges of each African country," a UNECA statement quoted Seck as saying while making a presentation on digital identity for citizens at the webinar. A digital ID is an identity verified and authenticated to a high degree of assurance over digital channels, which is unique and established with individual consent. Unlike a paper-based ID, a digital ID can be authenticated remotely over digital channels, it was noted. According to the UNECA, the main attributes of digital ID are verification and authentication, data privacy and security, standardization and interoperability, and unique identity, among others. Data from the UNECA show that about 542 million people in Africa do not have identity cards. Of this number, around 95 million children under five years of age have never had their births recorded, and 120 million children do not have birth certificates. Oliver Chinganya, director of the African Center for Statistics at UNECA, said formal identity systems are critical for making sure all citizens are treated fairly by their governments. The UNECA said ensuring legal identity for all is one of the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals and aims to provide legal identity for all, including birth registration, by 2030. Challenges such as lack of infrastructure, political instability, and issues related to privacy and inclusivity, however, remain to be tackled in many countries. "Digital identity serves to authenticate and authorize individuals in various online environments like online banking, e-commerce, health care, and social security transfers," said Chinganya. The UNECA, through Tuesday's session, envisaged demystifying concepts, processes, divergences, and developments in the digital identity and legal identity systems to address the concerns about privacy, security, and the potential for identity theft or misuse of personal information. The experts stressed the need for member states to put in place institutional capacity within relevant line ministries and departments to better plan, budget, advocate, and scale up the delivery of legal documents. GAZA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 Palestinians were killed and more than 34 others injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, local medical sources told Xinhua on Wednesday. The sources added that rescue efforts are still ongoing, and the casualties, now including women and children, may increase further. Those people are our people too. The words of UNC Senator David Nakhid, following the deadly The first four Ukrainian pilots are scheduled to complete training on F-16 fighter jets by summer. Thats according to the Arizona National Guard, Ukrinform reports, referring to CNN. The first group of pilots began training in mid-October with the 162nd Fighter Wing in Tucson, Arizona. The Pentagon said the training process would take several months to complete. A second group of another four pilots began training in January, according to Capt. Erin Hannigan, a spokeswoman for the Arizona National Guard, while a third group of four is currently going through English-language training, which is required to fly the fourth-generation US fighter jet. According her, all of the pilots are expected to complete their training between May and August, though the exact timeline depends on the progress of the program. As reported by Ukrinform, on February 5, 2024, the Dutch Ministry of Defense announced that it was preparing to deliver six additional F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. This brings the total number of fighter jets promised by the Netherlands to Ukraine to 24. On December 22, 2022, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced that his country would begin preparations to transfer 18 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Simultaneously, the Netherlands sent 18 F-16 fighter jets to Romania to train Ukrainian pilots. Currently, the Netherlands has 42 F-16 aircraft in service. Despite the United States running out of funds to send aid to Kyiv, the US National Guard still has enough money to complete training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets. In August 2023, President Joe Biden announced that the United States would begin training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. The training began in the autumn at the Morris Air National Guard Base. Since then, Ukraine's military fund, which the United States used to provide Ukraine with weapons and aid, is out of money. As a result, the US has not been able to send Ukraine any new arms packages. However, training for Ukrainian pilots has continued. Yuriy Ignat, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Armed Forces Air Force, stated that Ukraine is currently modifying its infrastructure for F-16 fighter jets. Photo: milavia.net Russian Ground Forces have continued and highly likely increased their ground attacks on the village of Robotyne in southern Ukraine, which was recaptured by the Ukrainian Armed Forces during its counteroffensive in the summer of 2023. The village has remained on the frontline since. The UK Defense Ministry said this in an intelligence update posted on X, formerly Twitter, Ukrinform reports. The Russian 58th Combined Arms Army and Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) operating in the area sustained heavy casualties during the Ukrainian counteroffensive, the update said. However, the lower operational tempo since and continued Russian recruitment efforts have likely enabled Russian forces on this axis to reconstitute. "Russian forces have intensified attacks across several points of the front line within the last week, likely intended to stretch Ukrainian forces," British intelligence said. The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) earlier reported that delays in Western security assistance to Ukraine were likely helping Russia launch opportunistic offensive operations along several sectors of the frontline in order to place pressure on Ukrainian forces along multiple axes. Russian forces are currently conducting at least three offensive efforts - along the Kharkiv-Luhansk region border, particularly in the directions of Kupiansk and Lyman; in and around Avdiivka; and near Robotyne in western Zaporizhzhia region, ISW said. Canada will join the initiative of the Czech Republic and allocate 30 million Canadian dollars (about 23 million US dollars) for the purchase of ammunition for Ukraine outside NATO. According to Ukrinform, CBC News reported this with reference to its own sources. Canada has signalled it's prepared to get behind a Czech Republic initiative to ship tens of thousands of artillery shells from different countries to Ukraine on an urgent basis. Although the details are still being finalized, defence sources say the federal government could contribute as much as $30 million to the plan, the report says. At the Munich Security Conference, Czech Republic President Petr Pavel announced that he had agreed with Denmark, the Netherlands, and Canada to join efforts to find the equipment and ammunition Ukraine needs around the world. Pavel said the Czech Republic had managed to locate about 800,000 artillery shells of NATO and Soviet-era calibres that could be shipped to Ukraine in a few weeks. Read also: Canada to donate over 800 drones to Ukraine this spring Defence Minister Bill Blair said Canada he had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Czech Republic to assist in the purchase of ammunition, but he did not provide any details of the agreement. Canada's allies, meanwhile, fear that Ottawa may choose to invest in munitions production through the Czech Republic while continuing to defer building up domestic weapons manufacturing capacity, CBC reported. As reported by Ukrinform, Canada has not yet signed agreements with its own artillery shell producers to increase production. This is due to the required modernization of enterprises, which will take at least three years and cost approximately $300 million from the state budget. Canadian officials have stated that the long-term demand for artillery shells worldwide will not be sufficient to recoup such investments. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that the negotiating framework for Ukraine's accession to the EU is expected to be ready in early summer. She stated this at a press conference in Brussels, according to an Ukrinform correspondent. The President of the European Commission reported positive progress in the screening process and mentioned that work on the negotiating framework is currently in progress. However, she noted that it would not be completed before the European elections due to the evolving negotiating positions, which will require additional time. Read also: Sunak discusses support for Ukraine with European Commission president Von der Leyen stated that the negotiating framework would be ready in early summer. As reported, on December 14, 2023, EU leaders decided at a summit in Brussels to open accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova. The European Council has instructed the European Commission to prepare a framework for the start of negotiations with Ukraine based on an analysis of the implementation of the recommendations provided in the EU enlargement report. Elections for the European Parliament are scheduled for June 6-9. facebook like button Tweet tweet button for twitter Published February 21, 2024 MONROE, LA On Friday, February 2, 2024, ULM hosted the KidWind Challenge, a renewable, wind energy learning experience sponsored by Pattern Energy Group and held at Bayou Pointe Event Center. Over 75 students from Cedar Creek, Neville, and Sterlington middle schools attended to participate in activities that impart knowledge and hands-on exposure to the science behind renewable energy, specifically wind power. This STEM competition, the first of its kind to be held in Louisiana, featured student teams vying for prizes, including invitations to the KidWind Challenge World Competition in Minneapolis, MN, in May, with a $1,000 travel stipend included for the top three teams. The KidWind Challenge is a firsthand design celebration that engages students through the lens of wind and solar energy. Student teams design, construct, and test small-scale wind turbines and solar structures. For the last twenty years, KidWind has focused on helping educators and students explore renewable energy through three major areas: teacher training, curricula and materials, and the KidWind Challenge. ULM partnered with the STEM Collective for Innovative Louisiana Stakeholders (SCILS) Region 8 LASTEM Center to bring this dynamic learning activity to campus. Dr. Anne Case Hanks, Director of the ULM School of Sciences, explained, KidWind Challenge brings science and engineering to life and requires students to use engineering design. Opportunities like this help to excite students in STEM. This innovative event would not be possible without Pattern Energy and the SCILS partnership with Louisiana Tech. Cathi Cox-Boniol, Director of SCILS Region 8 LASTEM Center, elaborated on efforts to begin this event. When SCILS connected with KidWind last year, we immediately knew this was a partnership we wanted to pursue, said Cox-Boniol. However, we also knew that in order for it to be successful, a strong collaborative effort was required. The powerful partnership between SCILS, KidWind, ULM, & Pattern Energy proved to be the perfect combination for launching the inaugural KidWind Challenge in Louisiana. I am proud and grateful for how each partner invested in our debut event. This is the type of partnership SCILS is built upon, and it is exciting to think about what might be accomplished as we continue leveraging our collective strengths, she added. ULM Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Mark Arant, summed up the ways in which such local events can impact our region. ULM exists to serve its community through connecting knowledge with challenges and opportunities. The sooner we can open doors for students to realize possibilities and potentials, the quicker lives can be changed. Working with younger students to address societal concerns gets them engaged sooner in the solution, leading to a lifetime of learning and connection with their communities, said Arant. People take part in a protest calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza, at a shopping mall in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Feb. 21, 2024. Israel will send a delegation for Gaza ceasefire talks in Cairo only after it receives more indications that Hamas is willing to "soften its stance," an Israeli government official told Xinhua on Wednesday. The official, who requires anonymity, said that Israel has yet to decide on sending a delegation for talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt. These discussions involve a potential ceasefire deal, which would require the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. (Tomer Neuberg/JINI via Xinhua) JERUSALEM, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Israel will send a delegation for Gaza ceasefire talks in Cairo only after it receives more indications that Hamas is willing to "soften its stance," an Israeli government official told Xinhua on Wednesday. The official, who requires anonymity, said that Israel has yet to decide on sending a delegation for talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt. These discussions involve a potential ceasefire deal, which would require the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. "Hamas hasn't yet shown flexibility on the issue of the number of Palestinian prisoners who would be released" under a deal, the official said. A meeting of U.S., Israeli, Qatari and Egyptian negotiators on a hostage release deal ended in Cairo earlier in February without a breakthrough. More than 200 people in Israel were taken hostage on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people. To retaliate the movement's deadly attack, Israel launched a large-scale offensive in the Gaza Strip that has so far killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, according to figures released by both sides. In November last year, Israel and Hamas conducted a hostage-for-prisoner swap under a fragile truce. People take part in a protest calling for the release of hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza, at a shopping mall in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Feb. 21, 2024. Israel will send a delegation for Gaza ceasefire talks in Cairo only after it receives more indications that Hamas is willing to "soften its stance," an Israeli government official told Xinhua on Wednesday. The official, who requires anonymity, said that Israel has yet to decide on sending a delegation for talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt. These discussions involve a potential ceasefire deal, which would require the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. 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San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos 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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 ANKARA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye's indigenous fighter jet, KAAN, conducted its maiden test flight on Wednesday, the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) said. To replace the Turkish army's aging F-16 fleet, production of the fifth-generation aircraft, KAAN, which was developed by TAI, began in 2016. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Turkish presidency said Turkiye would become one of the five countries in the world capable of producing the fifth-generation aircraft with the arrival of KAAN. Prior to its test flight, the aircraft has already underwent a number of tests, including ejection seat tests, full-scale static tests, inertia and static tests of control surfaces, landing gear drop tests, avionic system tests in the system integration laboratory, and fuel tests. KAAN is designed to work with other platforms such as unmanned aerial vehicles, airborne surveillance, control systems, and other equipment that are scheduled for procurement, the semi-official Anadolu Agency reported on Wednesday. The fighter jet will be capable of conducting air-to-air combat at supersonic speeds using internal weapon bays equipped with next-generation weapons, according to the agency. The University of Delaware (UD) and the city of Newark find themselves in the throes of financial turmoil, prompting a contentious proposal that could reshape the financial dynamics of their longstanding relationship. As both entities grapple with budget shortfalls, a per-student tax on the university has emerged as a solution proposed by the Newark City Council. However, this unconventional approach faces staunch opposition from students, administrators, and the broader university community. Financial Strains at UD and Newark UD's President, Dennis Assanis, recently attributed the university's budgetary woes to escalating employee health-care costs, leading to a hiring freeze and contemplation of severe measures to restore fiscal equilibrium. Simultaneously, the city of Newark, home to a sizable student population of 23,613 at UD, faces its own fiscal challenges, with a projected $8 million revenue shortfall in 2025. This confluence of financial struggles sets the stage for a contentious debate over the fiscal responsibilities of the university in its relationship with the city. READ ALSO: A Guide to Taxes as a College Student City Council's Proposal: A Per-Student Tax In response to the fiscal imbalance, the Newark City Council has proposed a per-student tax, seeking up to $50 per student per semester from UD. With the university owning nearly 35 percent of tax-exempt property in Newark, the council contends that such a tax is warranted to offset the impact of the growing student population on the city's infrastructure, particularly police and fire services. The tax is projected to generate $2 to $2.4 million annually, providing a potential lifeline to Newark's strained budget. Opposition and Unusual Revenue Collection Methods The proposed per-student tax has sparked opposition from students and university administrators who argue that UD already contributes significantly to Newark's economy. They assert that imposing an additional tax on students would unduly burden an already financially vulnerable demographic. However, local politicians argue that it is time for the tax-exempt university to contribute financially to the rising costs of running the city. This proposed tax stands out as an unusual method of revenue collection from a university. While municipalities often negotiate Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTs) with local universities, Newark's proposal takes a direct approach by targeting students. While acknowledging its unorthodox nature, proponents argue that it strikes a reasonable middle ground, generating revenue for the city without imposing an excessively large burden on the university. Exploring Alternatives and Legislative Hurdles Despite the city's efforts to address the financial strain, experts remain skeptical about the proposal's viability. Legislative attempts to tax nonprofits, especially universities, have historically faced resistance due to the lobbying power wielded by these institutions. However, if approved, the tax could provide a compromise solution that supports the city's infrastructure without unduly burdening the university. To become law, the proposal must navigate the legislative process, requiring approval from the Delaware General Assembly, the governor's signature, and a final vote by the Newark City Council. While city officials assert that the university can decide whether to pass the tax along to students, the ultimate financial impact remains uncertain, prompting concerns from both students and university administrators. Charting a Path Forward: Collaboration and Creativity As Newark seeks new revenue streams to address its budgetary challenges, the city is also exploring other options, including a potential tax on gross rents or lease payments and participation in a state-level PILOT program. The ongoing negotiations underscore the complexity of town-gown relationships, requiring creative solutions to balance the financial needs of both the university and the city. The proposal for a per-student tax in Newark adds a layer of complexity to the intricate relationship between UD and the city. The debate highlights the financial strains faced by both entities and underscores the need for collaborative, innovative solutions to address budget challenges while maintaining a balance that does not unduly burden students pursuing higher education in the college town. RELATED ARTICLE: The Ripple Effect of Trump-era Tax Changes on College Donations The landscape of higher education in the United States is on the brink of a seismic shift, with the looming Enrollment Cliff poised to reshape the composition of student populations in universities across the nation. Concurrently, a significant surge in the number of Indian students enrolling in US universities is anticipated, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the higher education sector. Rising Tide of Indian Students Against the backdrop of the Enrollment Cliff, characterized by a dwindling college-age population in the United States, projections indicate a remarkable fivefold increase in the number of Indian students pursuing higher education in the US over the next six years. This surge, expected to reach 15-20% annually from 2025 onwards, underscores the growing allure of US universities among Indian students. READ ALSO: New Reports Show Rapid Growth of International Students in US Currently, Indian students constitute a substantial portion of the international student population in the US, comprising over 25% of the total. With the US edging closer to the Enrollment Cliff by 2025, Indian students are poised to capitalize on expanded opportunities to gain access to previously selective institutions, propelling their numbers to an estimated one million by 2030. Roots of the Enrollment Cliff The seeds of the Enrollment Cliff were sown in the aftermath of the Great Recession of 2008-2009, which precipitated economic uncertainty and dampened birth rates in the US. Subsequent demographic trends, including a decline in the traditional college-age population, have accelerated the onset of the Enrollment Cliff, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the higher education ecosystem. Despite initial projections indicating a peak in the number of 18-24 year-old American students by 2025-26, recent data suggests an earlier onset of decline, with undergraduate enrollment witnessing a notable decrease. As the US braces for a projected 15% decline in college-bound students between 2025 and 2029, the imperative to attract international students, including those from India, becomes increasingly pronounced. Implications and Opportunities The surge in Indian student enrollment presents both challenges and opportunities for US higher education institutions. While universities grapple with shifting demographic dynamics and evolving student populations, the influx of international talent promises to enrich campus diversity and foster global perspectives. Master's level graduate programs, such as MS and MBA courses, have emerged as magnets for Indian students seeking to pursue advanced studies in the US. Conversely, undergraduate enrollment has witnessed a decline in recent years, reflecting shifting preferences and demographic trends. Navigating the Future As US universities navigate the complexities of the Enrollment Cliff, strategic collaborations and advocacy efforts will be pivotal in addressing regulatory challenges and fostering student-centric policies. By embracing the growing international talent pipeline, universities can position themselves as global hubs of learning and innovation, driving mutual benefit for both the US and India. In the face of demographic headwinds, US higher education stands at a crossroads, poised to chart a course towards a more inclusive and globally connected future. The surge in Indian student enrollment serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of US universities and underscores the transformative power of international education. RELATED ARTICLE: Planning To Study Abroad? Here Are Things Aspiring International Students Should Think About LONDON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- An increasing number of Chinese automobile brands, especially electric vehicles (EV) brands, are entering the United Kingdom (UK) and British consumers are open to that, a British motor industry leader has told Xinhua. As long as trade is free and fair, the incoming Chinese brands are good for both UK consumers and the industry, said Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The entry of these brands to the UK market stimulates competition, which in turn promotes innovation, he explained. The UK market has always been very open and competitive, Hawes told Xinhua. "It's why a lot of new brands are coming to the UK now," he said. China is one of the world's biggest motor markets, as well as manufacturers and exporters of cars, Hawes emphasized. The country has been moving rapidly towards EV production and sales and has the economies of scale that will help it compete internationally. Data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers shows that exports of China's new energy vehicles (NEVs), including both pure electric and hybrid vehicles, soared by 77.6 percent to more than 1.2 million units in 2023. UK-China collaboration in the automotive industry is a way of sharing investment costs to respond to the global industry's greatest challenges, such as electrification and autonomous vehicles, Hawes said. Collaboration also helps identify solutions and innovations from other parts of the world. "In the UK, we have a very close relationship between the industry and academia, and so many Chinese brands have already set up their research and development centers in the UK," Hawes added. While admitting that due to political and economic uncertainties, the UK has been a difficult place to invest in the last five to six years, Hawes underlined that the UK motor industry has seen tremendous investment in the last year. According to the SMMT, 23.7 billion British pounds (about 29 billion U.S. dollars) of investment, more than those in the seven previous years combined, was poured into the industry in 2023. Hawes said this "massive vote of confidence" has set up the country to move from internal combustion engines to EVs. However, the comparatively high prices of EVs have discouraged private consumers in the UK, he said. The SMMT is working with the government to try and get tax breaks for private consumers. Hawes also called for more public charging points to be built across the country, including on the streets, in car parks and in shopping centers. According to the government, as of Jan. 1 this year, there were 53,677 public EV charging points in the UK. A recent study sheds light on the overlooked potential of students who leave college without completing their degrees, urging colleges to reassess their approach to supporting these "comebacker" students. Conducted by California Competes, a nonpartisan policy and research organization, the study uncovers the obstacles these students face when attempting to return to college and offers recommendations to facilitate their successful re-enrollment. Obstacles to Return The study, titled "From Setback to Success: Meeting Comebacker Students Where They Are," highlights various challenges that hinder students' efforts to resume their college education. Issues such as overdue library fines, parking fees, and complicated re-enrollment procedures can create significant barriers for students seeking to return to college. Financial aid disqualification due to past poor grades and the struggle to balance familial responsibilities with academic pursuits further compound these challenges. READ ALSO: US Universities' Struggle To Support Dropout Students Moreover, the stigma associated with academic probation and the lack of targeted support for struggling students can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and discourage them from pursuing their educational goals. Many students reported feeling abandoned by the institution after experiencing setbacks, highlighting the need for a more supportive and inclusive campus environment. Untapped Potential and Economic Implications Despite the substantial number of Californians who have attended college without completing their degrees, their potential contributions to both personal and state economies often go unrecognized. Many of these "comebacker" students possess valuable skills and work experience that can enrich the college environment and contribute to workforce development. Overlooking these individuals not only deprives them of opportunities for personal advancement but also hampers the state's economic growth potential. By harnessing the talent and expertise of non-completers, colleges can create a more diverse and dynamic learning environment that better prepares students for success in today's rapidly evolving job market. Additionally, empowering non-completers to complete their degrees can lead to higher earning potential and greater economic mobility, benefiting both individuals and communities. Redefining Perspectives and Offering Support The study advocates for a shift in perspective regarding non-completers, emphasizing the diverse skills and experiences they bring to the table. Instead of focusing solely on academic deficiencies, colleges should recognize and leverage the strengths these students possess. Moreover, offering more flexible class schedules, providing academic support tailored to their needs, and reframing language surrounding academic probation can help create a more supportive environment for non-completers seeking to return to college. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering a culture of inclusivity, colleges can empower non-completers to overcome obstacles and achieve their educational goals. Addressing Systemic Barriers Addressing systemic barriers, such as inflexible academic calendars and financial aid policies, is crucial to facilitating the successful re-entry of non-completers into higher education. By restructuring academic calendars to offer shorter, more frequent classes and providing targeted support services, colleges can better accommodate the needs of non-traditional students. Moreover, advocating for policy changes at the state level to address issues such as financial aid eligibility can further enhance opportunities for non-completers to complete their degrees. By removing bureaucratic hurdles and expanding access to resources, colleges can create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment that empowers all students to succeed. Looking Ahead As California's community colleges continue to navigate the challenges stemming from the pandemic, it is essential to prioritize the re-engagement of non-completers in higher education. By recognizing the untapped potential of these individuals and implementing strategies to support their re-entry into college, California can work towards achieving its broader goals of educational equity and economic prosperity. Ultimately, ensuring that marginalized individuals have access to and complete college degrees is essential for the state's long-term success and resilience in addressing critical societal issues. By investing in the success of non-completers, colleges can unlock a wealth of talent and potential that will benefit individuals, communities, and the state as a whole. RELATED ARTICLE: Working Class Students 'Dropout' From College And Money Is Just One Of The Reasons Expert meeting collecting preliminary inputs for consideration at the international conference in Vienna in 2024 Co-hosted by Belgium and Luxembourg and organized in cooperation with the United Nations Tuesday, 26 March 2024 European Convention Center, Luxembourg INTRODUCTION In June 2023, the Working Group on Legal Aspects of Space Resource Activities had agreed that an event would be held in Luxembourg during the Space Resources Week entitled "Expert meeting collecting preliminary inputs for consideration at the international conference in Vienna in 2024", which would be co-hosted by Belgium and Luxembourg and organized in cooperation with the United Nations. Programme at Glance The Working Group on Legal Aspects of Space Resource Activities had agreed that the presenters of the expert meeting would be nominated by their respective national delegations and that the list of speakers would be, through close consultations between the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Working Group and States members of the Committee, prepared and finalized (A/78/20, para. 233.) The programme for the expert meeting is as follows: 9:00-9:20 - Welcome and Opening Remarks (Luxembourg / Belgium and Chair of the Working Group) 9:20-9:35 - Keynote (Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini, UNOOSA) 9:35-10:45 - Panel #1 - The scope of future space resource activities Moderator: Mahulena Hofmann (Luxembourg) Panellists: Ernest Tan (Canada) Liu Jizhong (China) Alexis Paillet (France) Philipp Reiss (Germany) Bernhard Hufenbach (Luxembourg) 10:45-11:00 - Morning Break 11:00-12:10 - Panel #2 - Environmental and socioeconomic aspects of space resource activities Moderator: Aarti Holla-Maini (UNOOSA) Panellists: Jean Robert Batana Pires Ferreira (Brazil) Du Hui (China) Mardianis (Indonesia) Kathryn Hadler (Luxembourg) Vlada Stamenkovic (United States of America) 12:30-13:30 - Lunch 13:30-14:15 - Panel #3 - International cooperation in scientific research and technological development of space resource activities. Moderator: Jean-Francois Mayence (Belgium) Panellists: Carolina Eugenia Catani (Argentina) Christian David Mullo Aimacana (Ecuador) Petra Rettberg (Germany) Setsuko Aoki (Japan) Jeremiasz Merkel (Poland) 14:15-15:20 - Panel #4 -The scope of future space resource activities. Moderator: Mahulena Hofmann (Luxembourg) Panellists: Arvid Bertheau Johannessen (Norway) Kevin Cannon (United States) Kota Tanabe (Japan) Marilena Amoroso (Italy) Ayman Mahmoud Mohamed Ahmed (Egypt) 15:20-15:40 - Afternoon Break 15:40-16:45 - Panel #5 - Environmental and socioeconomic aspects of space resource activities Moderator: Aarti Holla-Maini (UNOOSA) Panellists: Philip de Man (Belgium) Laercio Massaru Namiwaka (Brazil) Thao Nguyen (United States of America) Simone Pirrotta (Italy) Jesus Roberto Romero Ruiz (Mexico) 16:45-17:50 - Panel #6 - International cooperation in scientific research and technological development of space resource activities Moderator: Jean-Francois Mayence (Belgium) Panellists: Thales Sehn Korting (Brazil) Guo Linli (China) Julien-Alexandre Lamamy (Luxembourg) Kesniel Humberto Bravo Carpio (Mexico) Wilawan Pipatjirattikal (Thailand) 17:50-18:00 - Closing Remarks (Luxembourg / Belgium and Vice-Chair of the Working Group) WORKING LANGUAGE The working language of the Conference will be English. All participants are expected to have good English language skills. FORMAT OF THE EVENT The expert meeting will be conducted in hybrid format and all those registering will receive the login information when it becomes available. LOGISTICAL INFORMATION Organisers of the Space Resources Week (SRW) to be held on 25-27 March at the same venue extend their sincere invitation to all delegations and participants of the expert meeting to attend the SRW and are happy to provide free registration for in-person participation. Promotional code and link for registration for in-person attendance will be emailed to all registered participants of the Expert Meeting. LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE Life/major health insurance for each of the participants is the responsibility of participants or his/her institution or Government. The co-organizers will not assume any responsibility for life and major health insurance, nor for expenses related to medical treatment or accidents. Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday expressed his deep sense of sorrow and grief over the demise of senior journalist Nazir Naji LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday expressed his deep sense of sorrow and grief over the demise of senior journalist Nazir Naji. In his condolence message, the chief minister expressed his heartfelt sympathy and grief with the bereaved family. Mohsin Naqvi while paying tributes to the journalistic services of late Nazir Naji remarked that the services of the late rendered in the field of journalism will always be remembered. The CM prayed that may Allah Almighty rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with equanimity. Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Madad Ali Sindhi on Wednesday directed the chairperson NAVTTC to increase the quota for disables and transgenders in all programs ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Madad Ali Sindhi on Wednesday directed the chairperson NAVTTC to increase the quota for disables and transgenders in all programs. He was chairing Steering Committee meeting of the Prime Minister's Youth Skill Development Program (PMYSDP) at Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. The caretaker minister said that the meeting played a pivotal role in facilitating essential discussions to propel the program's objectives forward. He further said that this was the second meeting of NAVTTC steering committee under his tenure as minister. He pointed out that this is also the second meeting in five years. He highlighted the importance of this committee meeting. The caretaker minister said that in the last meeting, he had increased the quota for women which has been implemented in letter and spirit. Madad Ali said that domain of NAVTTC should be expanded to provinces to achieve the progress. He was of view that it would be prudent to include universities for increasing scope of NAVTTC in future. He took notice of the absence of Secretary Education Punjab and Sindh. Meanwhile, the Executive Director NAVTTC/Secretary of the Committee, Muhammad Aamir Jan briefed the committee on the current status and progress of PMYSDP 2023-24 project, achievements and outlining future goals. A significant decision was made regarding the High-Tech IT and High-End IT Training Components. The committee endorsed the consolidation and strategic reallocation of seats, not only to enrich industrial training opportunities but also to lay the groundwork for a groundbreaking collaboration with esteemed universities like COMSATS, NUST, NUML, and NSU to facilitate the pilot project being implemented with the Federal Directorate of Education. This collaborative effort is crafted to launch High-Impact IT Training with 16 FDE Colleges, intending to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The initiative aims to provide cutting-edge IT skills to the youth, ensuring their relevance in the ever-evolving job market, he told. Waseem Ajmal, Secretary Ministry of Federal Education, endorsed the pilot program and emphasized that the modalities may be formulated with the help of Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Pakistan IT Industry Association (P@SHA). In a bid to streamline implementation, the committee sanctioned the exemption of Bank/Insurance Guarantee for TEVTA, PVTC, PWDs, and other public institutes excluding public sector universities. Furthermore, various courses under the program, spanning High-Tech IT, High-End IT Training Component, Hospitality, Languages, Care Workers, and Gym/Sports Trainer, will now confer international certification, thereby enhancing the global recognition of the program. Ms. Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, chairperson NAVTTC, expressed optimism about the program, and said, "We aspire for these 56,000 youth to become valuable assets for the country. Our initiatives are geared towards inclusivity, accommodating youth from all strata of society." She highlighted NAVTTC's active action for transgender and persons with disabilities (PWDs), offering exemptions from criteria approved by the steering committee and NAVTTC. In another significant initiative focusing on High-Impact Trainings in globally IT skills demand such as AI, Data Science, and Blockchain, Ms. Gulmina Bilal Ahmad noted, "Our pilot program, catering to 500 to 700 youth in collaboration with FDE Colleges, aims to provide skill training to the youth, enhancing their prospects for better global job opportunities and contributing to the country's remittances. We are introducing international certifications for IT programs to boost the global recognition and consumption of Pakistani youth." The caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training extended his support and approval to all agenda points and encouraged the committee to replicate successful initiatives in the provinces upon completion of the pilot project. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have reached an agreement to form a coalition government at the Centre. Following thorough negotiations between PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and PML-N President Prime Minister-designate Shehbaz Sharif, a breakthrough was achieved. High-level discussions took place at Senator Ishaq Dar's residence, where the leaders engaged in crucial talks to solidify the terms of the alliance. At a joint press conference attended by Shehbaz Sharif, Asif Ali Zardari, Ishaq Dar, and other leaders from both parties, Bilawal announced that Shehbaz Sharif is set to become the prime minister once again, while PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari is expected to take on the role of president. Bilawal Bhutto remarked that none of the political parties obtained a clear majority in the February 8 elections, leading them to unite in their quest for power. However, the delay in reaching an agreement has sparked concern. Bilawal underscored that candidates supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) did not secure a simple majority to establish the government at the Centre. The PPP chairman stressed the immediate necessity of addressing the nation's crises together. "Every Pakistani is confronting challenges, and it is incumbent upon us to overcome these hardships with the resilience granted to us by Allah," he commented. When asked about the nomination of Ishaq Dar as Chairman Senate, Bilawal Bhutto stated that decisions have been made during the meetings but will be announced separately by each party. "Looking back, we have swiftly announced coalitions and made decisions with consensus, much faster than in previous terms," he added. President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed his commitment to the nation, stating that their struggle is for the people, Pakistan, and future generations. He addressed the resurgence of terrorism, particularly in KP and Balochistan, emphasizing the sacrifices made, and pledged that law enforcement agencies will combat terrorism. Additionally, he highlighted the need to address price hikes, revive the economy, provide education to youth, and ensure skilled individuals contribute to the country's development while supporting families to overcome challenges. Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the event, stated that both former ruling parties are well-positioned to form the government at the center. He expressed gratitude to President Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for their support, and also congratulated former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for his assistance and collaboration. He emphasized that the coalition government will operate in consultation with its allies, ensuring that collective efforts result in prosperity and economic stability across the country. He said that Pakistan is currently facing numerous challenges, and the coalition will nominate Zardari for the presidency. He expressed gratitude to other coalition partners, including MQM, IPP, and PML-Q, for their support in forming the government for the country. APP/szm-sra (@ChaudhryMAli88) RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) The launching ceremony of state-of-the-art 4th Offshore Patrol Vessel, PNS YAMAMA (Desig) being built for Pakistan Navy was held at DAMEN Shipyard Galati, Romania. Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami attended the occasion as Chief Guest, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said on Wednesday. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff underscored the importance of maritime security under the prevailing conventional and non-conventional maritime threats to energy and trade highways passing through Indian Ocean Region. In this context, he highlighted that Pakistan Navy had tremendous contribution in maintaining safe and secure sea environment for maritime trade. The Admiral expressed his confidence that induction of these multipurpose and highly adaptive platforms; equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors will further strengthen combat capability of PN Fleet in safeguarding maritime frontiers while ensuring Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region, especially in the Arabian Sea. Earlier during his welcome address, Chief Operations Officer of DAMEN Group Netherlands highlighted that DAMEN Shipyard and Pakistan Navy are enjoying historic relations since 1986. He highlighted that DAMEN would continue to deliver cost effective, technologically advanced and potent ships to PN to meet their operational requirements. The launching ceremony was attended by high ranking officials from Romanian Government and Navy, Pakistan Navy, DAMEN and notables from Pakistani community in Romania. The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday ruled that the resignation or retirement of a judge would not stop the underway proceeding of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) against him ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday ruled that the resignation or retirement of a judge would not stop the underway proceeding of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) against him. The court announced the verdict with the majority of 4/1 as Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi gave disagreement. A five-member bench of the top court headed by Justice Amin ud Din Khan announced the verdict which was earlier reserved after hearing arguments from respondents in the intra court appeal (ICA). Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Musarrat Hilali and Justice Irfan Saadat Khan were also part of the bench. The written order said, For the reasons to be recorded later, the delay in filing both the appeals is condoned. Both the appeals are partially allowed to the extent that if the proceedings have already been initiated by the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) against a Judge, same shall not abate on his resignation or retirement, as the case may be, during such proceedings. It is the prerogative of the SJC to proceed with the matter accordingly. The impugned judgment is modified to that extent. This order is with the majority of four by one disagreeing (Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, J.) on the point of limitation as well as on merits. Earlier during hearing, Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan said that it was the provision of SJC to take action on a misconduct of a judge during his service. The Judiciary used to play a role of mediation between government and people, he said, adding that the accountability was essential for the independence of judiciary as the judges used to be appointed against the constitutional slots of election commission, Shariat Court or tribunals after the retirements. The AGP said that it was necessary that the SJC would give its opinion on the conduct of a judge as no other institution could take legal actions against judges. Nairobi, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) Cuba's parliament speaker is visiting Nairobi in a bid to uncover the fate of two Cuban doctors abducted in Kenya by Somalia-based jihadists almost five years ago, its foreign ministry said. The mission by Esteban Lazo comes after the Al-Shabaab Islamist militant group claimed that the two doctors had been killed in a US air strike in Somalia last week. Lazo "has travelled to Kenya in order to engage in urgent procedures with the highest authorities of that country", Cuba's foreign ministry said in a statement published on Tuesday. He is "searching for cooperation and clarification", following the reports about the deaths of Assel Herrera Correa and Landy Rodriguez Hernandez, who were kidnapped on April 12, 2019, it said. The foreign ministry was also establishing contacts with the Somali government "and addressed the US government via diplomatic channels on Sunday, February 18, asking for further clarification, and is still awaiting a response", it said. The Al-Qaeda-affiliated Al-Shabaab had said in a statement the two doctors were killed in "multiple drone strikes" in the southern Somali city of Jilib on February 15. The claims by the Islamist militant group, which has been waging a bloody insurgency against the fragile central government in Mogadishu for 16 years, could not be independently verified. The US Africa Command, in a statement to AFP on Monday, confirmed that an air strike had been conducted against the Al-Shabaab network near Jilib on that date. "We are aware of reports of a strike alleged to have killed two civilians," it said. "We do not have any further information at this time about these reports, but we do take all claims of civilian casualties seriously. " Suspected jihadists had seized the two medics in the northeastern Kenyan town of Mandera, where they worked at the local hospital, and took them across the nearby border into Somalia. One of two police officers escorting the doctors was shot dead. A top Kenyan government official had said in May 2019 that the kidnappers were demanding $1.5 million for their release. The doctors were part of a 100-member Cuban medical brigade working in Kenya under a bilateral agreement. - Military counter-offensive - Al-Shabaab has waged a string of deadly assaults in Kenya in retaliation for the East African country's decision to send troops into Somalia in 2011. Despite the attacks, the East African country remains a major contributor to the African Union force which backs Mogadishu in its war against the Islamist militants. Al-Shabaab fighters were driven from the capital and other urban areas in 2011 but they still control swathes of rural Somalia. The group continues to carry out attacks against security and civilian targets, including in the capital, despite a military counter-offensive launched in August 20220, US air strikes and the AU troops on the ground. Earlier this month, the AU peacekeeping force known as ATMIS completed the second phase of a troop drawdown after a four-month delay. Under a UN Calendar, ATMIS is due to pull out completely from the Horn of Africa nation by the end of this year, handing over to Somali security forces. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Berlin, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) Weaker exports, costly energy and a stuttering green transition have combined to form a "perfect storm" for the German economy, leaving Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition bickering over how to change course. The government will unveil its latest economic forecasts for 2024 on Wednesday, with media reports suggesting a sharp downgrade to a mere 0.2 percent growth. In its autumn projections, the government was still expecting output to expand by 1.3 percent. The country ended 2023 in recession, shrinking by 0. 3 percent, and the latest data suggest the first quarter of 2024 will see another contraction. Germany also risks facing anaemic growth up to 2028 if no action is taken, German media said. The German economy, Europe's largest and traditionally a driver of eurozone growth, is being buffeted by "a perfect storm", Economy Minister Robert Habeck said earlier this month. The situation was "dramatically bad", he added. Germany's once-mighty industrial sector has been hit particularly hard by multiple headwinds. DOHA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Qatari government on Wednesday voiced its deep regret over the impediment of a draft resolution proposed by Algeria at the UN Security Council, which called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The Qatari Foreign Ministry affirmed in a statement that "the ongoing brutal aggression on Gaza exposes time after time the double standards and the differing positions of the international community regarding the systematic war crimes practiced by Israel against Palestinian people, especially children and women." The statement underscored Qatar's commitment to achieving an immediate ceasefire, protecting civilians and facilitating the unhindered entry of humanitarian aid to all areas of Gaza, in cooperation with regional and international partners, as part of its dedication to resolving the conflict in Gaza. On Tuesday, the United States vetoed the draft resolution, the fourth time it has done so since the outbreak of the conflict. Before the vote on the draft resolution, U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the Algerian draft would "jeopardize ongoing efforts toward a hostage deal." TOKYO, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) Japan's exports rose 11.9 percent from a year earlier to 7.33 trillion Yen (48.87 billion U.S. Dollars) in January, marking the second straight month of growth, government data showed Wednesday. The robust overseas shipments helped the country halve its monthly trade deficit from a year earlier to 1.76 trillion yen, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance. China-bound shipments grew 29.2 percent, while exports to the United States and the European Union increased 15.6 percent and 13.8 percent, respectively. Overall imports fell 9.6 percent to 9.09 trillion yen, as imports of coal and liquefied natural gas fell by double digits, the data showed. The country posted a record 3.51 trillion yen trade deficit in January 2023, due to massive imports inflated by a weak yen. (1 Japanese yen equals 0.0067 U.S. dollars) BRUSSELS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) A Belgian animal park on Wednesday announced that three of its five pandas will leave for China this year. Tian Bao, born in 2016, and twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019, will leave Pairi Daiza Park in Hainault in the autumn of 2024. "Our three 'baby' pandas, cherished by all since their arrival, will have to leave Pairi Daiza in 2024," the park said in a statement. "However, we have been incredibly fortunate to have them with us for over 4 years (for Bao Di and Bao Mei) and almost 8 years (for Tian Bao). " The sending of the pandas to China is part of an initial agreement between Pairi Daiza and the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA). When the parents of the three pandas, Hao Hao and Xing Hui, arrived in Belgium in 2014, a 15-year loan had been agreed. This agreement also stipulated that all descendants of the panda couple born in Belgium would go to China at the age of four, to participate in breeding and conservation programs for the species. (@ChaudhryMAli88) London, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) UK Foreign minister David Cameron said Wednesday that London had imposed sanctions on six officials at the head of the Siberian penal colony where Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny died. "Those responsible for Navalny's brutal treatment should be under no illusion -- we will hold them accountable," Cameron said. The sanctioned individuals will be subject to freezes of any UK assets and travel bans. They include Vadim Konstantinovich Kalinin, who oversaw the IK-3 Arctic Penal Colony "Polar Wolf", and five of his deputies. The UK, which is the first nation to issue sanctions related to Navalny's death on Friday, also called for his body to be released to his family immediately. "It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him," Cameron said. Russian authorities "poisoned him with Novichok in 2020, they imprisoned him for peaceful political activities, and they sent him to an Arctic penal colony. No one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system," he added. "That's why we're today sanctioning the most senior prison officials responsible for his custody in the penal colony where he spent his final months." Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2024) The United States will announce new sanctions on Russia on Friday over the death in prison of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, the White House said. "At President Biden's direction, we will be announcing a major sanctions package on Friday of this week to hold Russia accountable for what happened to Mr Navalny," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Tuesday. He said the sanctions would also be in response to "all its actions over the course of this vicious and brutal war that has now raged on for two years. " Russia on Friday announced the death of Navalny, a persistent critic of President Vladimir Putin who survived a 2020 poisoning, at a remote prison in the Arctic where the anti-corruption campaigner was serving a 19-year sentence. "Whatever story the Russian government decides to tell the world, it's clear President Putin and his government are responsible," Kirby said. "Absent some credible investigation into his death," Kirby said, "it's hard to get to a point where we can just take the Russians' word for it." "We're calling for complete transparency by the Russian government for how he died." Small-business owners will have an opportunity to learn how to secure funding for their businesses Wednesday, Feb. 28. Multiple speakers will present a Wyoming Community Navigator Program (CNP) webinar titled How to Secure Funding for Your Small Business: Tips From Lending Experts from noon-1 p.m. To register, go here. Registration is free. The Wyoming CNP, through the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network at the University of Wyoming, provides small-business resources and assistance for traditionally underserved entrepreneurs throughout Wyoming. During this interactive webinar, small-business owners will hear from lending experts who will share their insights and advice on how to secure funding for small businesses. Attendees will learn about the different types of loans, grants and alternative financing options available, as well as the eligibility criteria, application process and best practices for each. Attendees also will have the opportunity to ask questions and network with other small-business owners and lenders. Webinar speakers are Emily Kremers, marketing and education manager for the Wyoming Smart Capital Network; Alexandria Smith, microloan director for the Wyoming Womens Business Center; Tammi Hanshaw, lender relations specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration; Kendall Hutchinson, president of Wyoming Capital Access; and Kenny Overby, Wyoming SBDC Network regional director for Goshen and Laramie counties, who has 18 years of experience owning and running small businesses. For more information, call Maureen Johnson, marketing, communication and database manager for the Wyoming SBDC Network, at (307) 343-0925 or email mjohn125@uwyo.edu. BEIJING, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson for the Chinese mainland on Wednesday urged Taiwan to make public the truth of a recent incident in waters near Kinmen that led to the death of two people on a mainland fishing boat. Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, also called on relevant parties in Taiwan to hand serious punishments to those responsible for the incident, satisfy reasonable demands of the bereaved families, and issue a formal apology to them. "We are resolute in protecting our compatriots' legitimate rights and interests, and allow no recurrence of such an incident," Zhu said. Taiwan authorities' brutal treatment of the fishing boat from Fujian Province on Feb. 14 led to all four people on board falling into the sea, and two of them died. However, relevant authorities in Taiwan denied any wrongdoing, and attempted to conceal the truth. Certain individuals in Taiwan have also made irresponsible remarks concerning the incident, Zhu said. She noted that it was not until the bereaved families and compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait made a strong push for the truth that relevant authorities in Taiwan admitted that a vessel from Taiwan had rammed into the fishing boat, causing it to capsize and leading to the casualties. Despite this, the Taiwan side continues to attempt to cover up the truth of the incident and shirk its responsibilities. Zhu said that the incident was not a sporadic case. Since the Democratic Progressive Party came to power in Taiwan in 2016, similar incidents have occurred on multiple occasions, seriously harming the interests of those in the mainland fishing industry and the sentiment of mainland compatriots, she noted. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. ADEN, Yemen, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's internationally recognized government expressed strong condemnation on Wednesday for the Houthi group's assault on a commercial ship carrying 40,000 tons of grain intended for the war-ravaged Yemen. In a statement released by the state-run Saba news agency, the government said that the ship named the Sea Champion was fired upon by Houthi forces on Monday while sailing from Argentina to the port of Aden in southern Yemen. The attack was carried out using two ballistic missiles, according to a Houthi announcement. The government said that the ship was carrying a cargo of 40,000 tons of grain, of which 9,229 tons of corn were destined for Aden. The rest was to be unloaded at the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah. The Sea Champion has delivered vital food aid to Yemen 11 times over the past five years since the outbreak of the country's civil war, according to the government. Yemen's Information Minister Muammar Al-Eryani described the assault as "a dangerous escalation of Houthi attacks on commercial ships." He accused the Houthis of exacerbating Yemen's humanitarian crisis and forcing innocent civilians to pay the price. The Houthis have stepped up their attacks on international shipping since mid-November last year, saying they were in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza who faced Israeli attacks. Egypt's economy is facing serious hurdles after revenue from the country's most strategic asset the Suez Canal has dropped by nearly half. Attacks by the pro-Iranian Houthi militia group on ships passing by Yemen has made merchant ships avoid the Red Sea and the canal. The Greek-flagged grain ship Sea Champion was slightly damaged Wednesday by two ballistic missiles fired by the northern Yemen-based Houthi group, which says it is attacking Western ships in solidarity with Hamas militants fighting Israel. Because of such attacks, many ships that normally pass by Yemen, headed to or from the Suez Canal, now avoid the area and take the longer route around the Horn of Africa. That is cutting deeply into Egypts revenue from ships passing through the canal and is just the latest challenge to the countrys economy, Egyptian President Abdel Fatteh el-Sissi said. First, el-Sissi said, were the two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Then the Russia-Ukraine conflict added to economic issues, as well as pressure from conflicts in border countries of Libya, Sudan and Gaza. Now, el-Sissi said, Egypt is seeing Suez Canal revenue of approximately $10 billion a year decline by nearly 40% to 50%. Said Sadek, a professor of political sociology at the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology in Alexandria, said Egypt isn't the only country affected by fewer ships transversing the canal. "If the conflict continues," he said, "supply chains all over the world will be affected, especially since many of the cargoes that pass through the canal are oil and gas ships heading to Europe, and that will make the European economy suffer a lot." Joshua Landis, who heads the Middle East studies program at the University of Oklahoma, tells VOA the conflict in Gaza has had repercussions on many Middle East fault lines, in addition to the Red Sea conflict affecting world shipping. "It's ratcheted up the war between Iran and the U.S., it's increased violence in countries like Iraq and Syria, along borders that had become stalemates, he said. It's increased instability from one end of the Middle East to the other. It's like throwing a firecracker into the middle of a beehive. Landis said that Iran, which controls many of the proxy militias that are participating in far-flung corners of the Gaza conflict, "has the United States by the short hairs," pulling it into conflicts, not only with the Houthis in Yemen, but also with Shi'ite militias in Iraq and Syria. Paul Sullivan, a Washington-based Middle East and energy analyst at the Atlantic Council, warns the Houthis are not deterred by any of the U.S. and British retaliatory airstrikes that have been made against them. He said that may indicate "that they have more sources of financing, training and weapons than was previously known." "Yemen," Sullivan added, "has been at war for a good part of its history [and] many of those involved with the attacks are battle-hardened. They also live by a mountain code, which rules out not responding to threats like many others have." Sixteen months after its establishment, the U.S.-backed Fund for the Afghan People has yet to release any payments for its intended purposes, a board member reveals. The fund, created using half of Afghanistan's frozen assets in the United States, aims to help stabilize the Afghan economy without benefiting the de facto Taliban authorities. Established in the wake of the Taliban's takeover in 2021, the Switzerland-based fund holds $3.5 billion that formerly belonged to the Afghan Central Bank. It is authorized to support activities such as paying Afghanistan's debts to international organizations, funding electricity imports and even printing currency. Im surprised that they [the Taliban] have not asked for any payment so far, Anwar ul-Haq Ahady, a co-chair of the funds board of trustees, told VOA. Ahady emphasized his willingness to facilitate the funding of authorized activities. Taliban officials declined to comment. Despite the fund's inaction, the Taliban recently announced payment of outstanding electricity bills using domestic funds. Additionally, a European donor helped settle Afghanistan's World Bank debt last year, unlocking new bank aid. Last week, the World Bank announced it had approved a new approach to Afghanistan aimed at supporting income-generating activities. Under the new approach, work will be resumed on a $1.2 billion project that will bring clean energy from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to Pakistan via Afghanistan. Afghanistan is also in arrears to the Asian Development Bank, resulting in a hold on the ADB's regular assistance programs since 2021. Ahady said the fund would consider paying the ADB debt. But we are the last resort, he added. Saving the assets Over $9 billion in Afghan assets remain frozen in the U.S., Europe and the United Arab Emirates, inaccessible to the Taliban. In the U.S., $3.5 billion face claims from 9/11 victims' families. It is unclear if that frozen portion generates interest like the funds in Switzerland. The fund has already accrued more than $200 million in interest in less than two years, according to Ahady. Afghans see this as their national treasure, said Masuda Sultan of Unfreeze Afghanistan, an organization advocating the release of the frozen assets. Afghans believe the funds should not be used to pay for consumption of goods and services. Despite dire poverty in Afghanistan, the fund in Switzerland is not earmarked for immediate humanitarian needs a deliberate choice, according to Ahady. Humanitarian needs are so huge at this juncture that [if used], this amount of money [the fund] will disappear quickly, he said. The United States and other donors have given billions in humanitarian assistance to Afghans over the past two years. As the Taliban remain a pariah regime widely condemned for their repressive policies, the future of the frozen assets remains uncertain. The funds belong to Da Afghanistan Bank, said Ahady, referring to the Afghan Central Bank, now governed by the Taliban. The now $3.74 billion fund can only be released if the Afghan Central Bank demonstrably acts independently from the Taliban and complies with anti-terrorism safeguards. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken heads to Brazil this week for a G20 foreign ministers' meeting, where the wars in Ukraine and Gaza are expected to dominate talks. He will also meet with Brazil's president, whose views on the conflicts differ from the Biden administration's. Blinken will then travel to Argentina. Cindy Saine reports. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Brazil Wednesday with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva ahead of talks with his counterparts from the Group of 20. The United States and Brazil are doing so many important things together, we're working together bilaterally, regionally, globally. It's a very important partnership, Blinken said after the meeting in Brasilia. The secretary of state then left for Rio de Janeiro, where the G20 ministerial meetings are taking place. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be in attendance so theres potential for a rare face-to-face interaction between the two. Blinken also plans to discuss the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti with G20 partners on the sidelines of the meetings, addressing the Haitian peoples call for help to restore security and stability. No G20 joint statement expected on Gaza, Ukraine The G20, comprising 19 countries including the G7, the European Union and the African Union, represents about 85% of global GDP, 75% of global trade and two-thirds of the global population. The G7 comprises the world's richest and most powerful countries. Last week, G7 foreign ministers expressed outrage over the detention death of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny and pledged unwavering support to Ukraine as the two-year mark of Russias invasion approaches. The G7 foreign ministers joint statement also advocated for prolonged and durable pauses in the hostilities leading to a sustainable cease-fire in Gaza while expressing deep concern over the devastating impact of Israels planned military operations in Rafah, where more than a million civilians are taking refuge. Ramin Toloui, assistant secretary of state for economic and business affairs, said the U.S. will underscore the damage caused by the Kremlins war of aggression and encourage all G20 partners to redouble their calls for a just, peaceful and lasting end to the war on Ukraine. But Toloui said Brazil would not attempt to mobilize a joint statement during the upcoming G20 foreign ministers meetings. Distinct foreign relations From Brazil, Blinken will travel to Buenos Aires to meet with the newly inaugurated Argentine President Javier Milei to discuss bilateral and global issues. Argentina boasts one of the largest Jewish populations in South America. Following Milei's recent visit to Israel, a senior U.S. official said Blinken will engage in discussions with Milei regarding the way forward between Israel and Gaza. Other topics high on the agenda include critical minerals and sustainable economic growth. Blinken's diplomatic missions to Argentina and Brazil will navigate the countries' distinct foreign relations concerning various countries and issues, such as Russia, Gaza and China. Lula initially assured Russia that President Vladimir Putin, who faces an International Criminal Court arrest warrant, would not be arrested if he attended the G20 summit in November in Brazil. However, he later amended his stance, indicating that the decision would ultimately be in the hands of Brazil's judiciary. During his visit to Cairo, Feb. 14 and 15, Lula strongly criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza, advocating for a "definitive cease-fire." He announced Brazil's new contribution to the United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, or UNRWA, and supported Palestine's recognition as a sovereign state with full U.N. membership. Lula wrote on the social media platform X, While Hamas militants' attack on October 7 against Israeli civilians is indefensible and deserved strong condemnation from Brazil, Israel's disproportionate and indiscriminate response is unacceptable." In contrast, during his visit to Israel in early February, Milei, a pro-Israel far-right leader, announced his intention to relocate Argentina's embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a move previously made by only the United States and a few other countries. Milei also announced his government's intention to classify Hamas as a terrorist organization. This visit marked his first bilateral trip since his inauguration in December. Following his meeting with Blinken on Friday, Milei plans to visit Washington and speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference, or CPAC, on Feb. 24, a gathering expected to be filled with supporters of former U.S. President Donald Trump. BRICS and China In 2025, Brazil will lead the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) of emerging nations, in which China is a key player. During a state visit to Beijing last year, Lula called for BRICS countries to trade in their own currencies and end the U.S. dollars trade dominance. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates officially joined the bloc on Jan. 1. Last month, Lula held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in which the two pledged to strengthen a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. In comparison, Milei has turned down an offer to join BRICS. During his presidential campaign, he said he would freeze relations with China. Milei also chose to acquire secondhand American F-16 fighters from Denmark, favoring them over new Chinese JF-17 fighter aircraft. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment in Brazil, and we have a robust presence of U.S. companies in Brazil, as well as in Argentina, and were looking forward to deepening our economic ties between both of them, Brian Nichols, the assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere affairs, told VOA in a recent phone briefing. Nichols emphasized the importance of countries trading freely while understanding the trade-offs involved. The United States is offering up a comprehensive and powerful alternative to those who may not necessarily have others best interests at heart, he said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Wednesday, briefing him on U.S. efforts to end the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza but also telling him the U.S. disagrees with his assessment likening Israels war effort to that of Nazi genocide in World War II. A U.S. official privy to the talks in Brasilia said the leaders had a frank exchange about the war, now in its fifth month, but declined to characterize Lulas response to Blinkens criticism. Blinken talked about all the efforts [the U.S. is] making, not just as it relates to Gaza itself, but in the broader region, that we think is the path to doing that. The president seemed to appreciate the efforts the U.S. is making to do that, the U.S. official said. Blinken and Lula did not discuss the U.S. veto Monday of a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the war, the official said. The U.S. has been committed to discussions, so far unfruitful, involving Israeli, Eqyptian and Qatari officials targeting a more limited halt to the fighting, accompanied by the release of the 100 or so remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Lulas comments likening Israels attacks in Gaza to the Holocaust came after he visited the Middle East last week and just ahead of a meeting of foreign ministers in Rio de Janeiro as part of Brazil's presidency of the G20 group of advanced economies. Israel said Monday that Lula is not welcome there until he takes back the comments. The U.S. official said Blinken emphasized the American commitment to support Lulas G20 agenda to combat hunger, protect the global climate and improve global governance. Our hope would be that in the meetings were going to have [in Rio] that that would be [the] focus of how these countries, the G20 countries, have the responsibility to work together to address these shared challenges, the U.S. official said. The official also said the leaders discussed the importance of strengthening democracy in the region and Venezuela particularly. VOAs Nike Ching contributed to this report from Rio de Janeiro. The Czech Republic on Wednesday extradited a man facing charges in the United States for plotting the murder of a prominent critic of Iran's government, the Czech Justice Ministry said. The ministry said Polad Omarov was handed to representatives of U.S. authorities at the Prague Vaclav Havel Airport on Wednesday morning after the suspect had exhausted all options of appeal. Omarov was arrested in the Czech Republic in January 2023. The ministry said the justice minister had ruled in July last year in favor of extradition, but the action was delayed by the suspect's complaint with the constitutional court, which was rejected. Omarov, along with Rafat Amirov and Khalid Mehdiyev, were charged with murder-for-hire and money laundering for their roles in the thwarted Tehran-backed assassination attempt of a critic of Iran's government who is a U.S. citizen and lives in Brooklyn, New York. The U.S. did not name the alleged victim when it detailed charges in January 2023, but Mehdiyev was arrested in 2022 in New York for having a rifle outside the Brooklyn home of journalist Masih Alinejad. A longtime critic of Iran's head-covering laws has promoted videos of women violating those laws to her millions of social media followers. U.S. prosecutors in 2021 also charged four Iranians alleged to be intelligence operatives for Tehran with plotting to kidnap a New York-based journalist and activist. While the target of that plot was not named, Reuters confirmed it was Alinejad. U.S. prosecutors have said Omarov was a resident of the Czech Republic and Slovenia. The Czech Justice Ministry said on Wednesday he was a citizen of Georgia. South Korean health officials say elective surgeries and treatments have been canceled or postponed amid a growing walkout by the nations junior doctors. Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo told reporters Wednesday that more than 7,800 trainee doctors have left their post this week, with a total of 8,816 trainees, or more than 71%, having submitted their resignations. The junior doctors began walking off the job Monday over a government plan to increase the number of medical students from 3,000 to 5,000 by next year to adequately provide health care to South Koreas rapidly aging population. Doctors groups say medical schools can not handle the proposed increase, and add that doctors need better pay and working conditions. But critics say the doctors, some of the best-paid professionals in South Korea, are worried that an influx of new physicians will erode their incomes. Park said the walkout is jeopardizing patient care and urged the striking doctors to return to work. He was joined in the press briefing by officials from various law enforcement agencies who warned the doctors could face arrest and imprisonment if the strike continues. The government has opened military hospitals to the public and extended operating hours at several public hospitals. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters, Agence France-Presse. Students practice pronunciation in local language during a class at Progressive English Nursery and Primary School in Bafoussam, Cameroon, Feb. 19, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) by Arison Tamfu, Wang Ze YAOUNDE, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- On a bright morning at Les Normaliens Lay Private Bilingual School in Foumbot, Cameroon, teacher Belinda Bafon prepared her students for class. Settling in, the children delved into a 30-minute session dedicated to conversing in their mother tongues, a practice central to the school's curriculum. "Who can say 'good morning, how are you' in their mother tongue?" Bafon asked as the children raised their hands almost in unison in a scramble to respond to the question. "Irah weh? Weh sa keh?" responded six-year-old Gift Legend Fohyi, who was lucky to be chosen by the teacher. The students were often asked to pronounce words and give names of things in their mother tongues. Bafon's lecture reflects a typical classroom setting in the country, where a new government policy has made it mandatory to teach mother tongues to children in kindergarten, primary, and secondary schools. This classroom scene mirrors a broader educational shift in Cameroon. Institutions like Les Normaliens Lay are leading the charge to preserve and promote indigenous languages, recognizing them as vital components of the country's cultural identity. Through such initiatives, Cameroon not only educates its youth but also fosters pride and belonging rooted in linguistic heritage. Cameroonian culture remains intact, but one important part of indigenous identity -- language -- is fading out. There are about 260 indigenous languages in the country, but only French and English, inherited from colonial masters, are official, according to the Ministry of Secondary Education. In 2022, the state-run National Institute of Statistics of Cameroon reported that 4 percent of the indigenous languages have disappeared since 1950, with 10 percent of them currently neglected, and 7 percent considered as threatened. Cameroon is now making progress in fostering the teaching of mother tongues in schools as part of efforts to revive local languages, said Secretary of State to the Minister of Basic Education Kilo Vivian Asheri. "We insist on teaching mother tongues because when a child grows up and the first language they acquire is their mother tongue, they will understand other languages," Asheri said. "When introducing the national language, we deal with nearly all the languages," Bafon told Xinhua. "I was happy when I came to school because I was learning my dialect," added little Fohyi. At Progressive English Nursery and Primary School in Bafoussam, the chief town of the West Region, Gilles Ndze was attentive as his teacher taught them how to spell their local languages. The 10-year-old said learning how to speak his mother tongue "helps us communicate with those who know our local languages and also helps us know our national culture." Learning a native language can be a meaningful way to explore and connect with the heritage, which is largely believed to contribute to a longer and healthier life, said Clarisse Ndam Meganche, an educator and proprietor of Les Normaliens Lay Private Bilingual School. "Teachers, parents, educators should teach their children to speak a national language; it is very important for their personal development because wherever they are, they must have an identity, and identity is tested through language," she said. The revival of mother tongues through education is also an important component of the country's reforms to enhance social integration and unity, said Emmanuel Kelly Fuh, the headmaster of Progressive English Nursery and Primary School. "Children will be able to discuss with their parents and others who may not have gone to school, who are still in the village. They will be able to discuss with them without any problem and identify their culture," Fuh said. As Cameroon joins the rest of the world in marking the International Mother Language Day, which falls on Feb. 21, it is important to emphasize the need to decolonize Africa through the teaching of local languages, said linguist Joseph Maluh. "This program is, at its core, a solid example of what decolonization looks like. It will gradually erase the language of the former colonial master while giving importance to local languages. And while it will take a while to get a framework in place to expand this program all over Cameroon, supporting it will be crucial," Maluh said. Students take notes during a class at Les Normaliens Lay Private Bilingual School in Foumbot, Cameroon, Feb. 19, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) A teacher teaches students to pronounce in local language during a class at Progressive English Nursery and Primary School in Bafoussam, Cameroon, Feb. 19, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) Students take notes during a class at Les Normaliens Lay Private Bilingual School in Foumbot, Cameroon, Feb. 19, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) Students raise hands to answer questions during a class at Les Normaliens Lay Private Bilingual School in Foumbot, Cameroon, Feb. 19, 2024. (Photo by Kepseu/Xinhua) European Union countries on Wednesday agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia to target individuals and businesses suspected of assisting Moscow in its war against Ukraine, including Chinese companies. The decision coincides with the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, which began on Feb. 24, 2022, and comes days after the death of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny. Belgium, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-nation bloc, said the "package is one of the broadest approved by the EU." According to several diplomats, EU ambassadors from all member countries agreed to impose sanctions on about 200 companies and individuals. The diplomats spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to disclose details about the sanctions, which have yet to be formally adopted. They said several Chinese companies, which are believed to have provided help to Russia, have been sanctioned. Details of the entities targeted will be revealed when the sanctions are published in the EU's legal journal. The EU has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Russia since President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine. The measures have targeted the energy sector, banks, the world's biggest diamond mining company, businesses and markets, and made Russian officials subject to asset freezes and travel bans. The new sanctions will further enhance trade restrictions against entities linked to the Russian military-industrial complex, diplomats said. Additional bans on exports to Russia of highly technical components for drone production were adopted. "I welcome the agreement on our 13th sanctions package against Russia," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. "We must keep degrading Putin's war machine. With 2,000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russia's access to drones." Belgium said the package will undergo a written procedure and be formally approved on Saturday, which marks the second anniversary of the war. Farmers in Greece have stepped up their protests, storming the countrys capital with tractors and farming equipment, gathering outside the nations parliament. In the largest agricultural demonstration in recent memory, thousands of farmers drove colorful tractors through the streets of Athens, paralyzing traffic and then parking outside Parliament. They are complaining of rising production costs, but the government says it has no money to spare to meet their financial demands. Many chanted slogans and lit flares, others waved black flags, dragged out coffins and hung funeral wreaths on their vehicles, showcasing, as they put it, the plight of their dying trade. One farmer said he drove 14 hours to be at the protest. He said the cost of production is rising and while farmers sell their products at low prices, they end up in the supermarket basket three and four times over that base price. Police said at least 6,000 farmers and about 200 tractors stormed the Greek capital. Their anger and frustration over rising costs echo similar concerns by farmers staging rolling strikes across the 27-nation European Union for the past few months. In Greece, though, farmers are furious about the compensation they have yet to receive after losing livestock and crops to ferocious floods that hit the countrys farming land last year. The center-right government of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has acknowledged the plight of the farmers, granting some concessions, including substantial discounts on electricity and petrol bills. But beyond that, the government says, budgetary constraints do not allow for more funding, aggravating an already heated showdown with the farmers. One young cotton producer said he felt duped and cheated by the government. He said farmers will not let up. They are determined to stay until their demands are met. Boeing said on Wednesday it was replacing the head of its troubled 737 MAX program effective immediately, the first major executive departure since the January 5 midair panel blowout of a new Alaska Airlines MAX 9. Ed Clark, who had been with the plane-maker for nearly 18 years, departed as Boeing has been dealing with its latest crisis and has vowed to ramp up quality efforts. Regulators have curbed the plane-maker's production, and lawmakers and customers have been scrutinizing production and safety measures. Boeing has scrambled to explain and strengthen safety procedures after a door panel detached during flight on a new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, forcing pilots to make an emergency landing while passengers were exposed to a gaping hole 16,000 feet above the ground. Clark's departure came after Boeing's board met this week and approved the changes, according to sources familiar with the matter. He oversaw the company's production facility in Renton, Washington, where the plane involved in the accident was completed. Clark was previously chief mechanic and engineer for the 737 before being named head of the program in 2021. He was the fifth person in four years to run the 737 program. Katie Ringgold is replacing him as vice president and general manager of the 737 program, according to a memo seen by Reuters sent to staff by Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal, who said the plane-maker was working to ensure "that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements. Our customers demand, and deserve, nothing less." The latest mishap occurred as Boeing was still working to rebuild its reputation following the 20-month grounding of the 737 MAX following two fatal crashes that killed a total of 346 people. That grounding was lifted in November 2020. Airline industry executives have expressed frustration with Boeing's quality control. The only other major manufacturer of commercial aircraft is France's Airbus. The memo was first reported by the Seattle Times. The FAA grounded the MAX 9 for several weeks in January and has capped Boeing's production of the MAX while it audits the plane-maker's manufacturing process, which has suffered a string of quality issues in recent years. The door panel that flew off the MAX 9 appeared to be missing four key bolts, according to a preliminary report from the U.S. National Safety Transportation Board in early February. The panel is a plug-in placed on some 737 MAX 9s instead of an additional emergency exit. According to the report, the door plug in question was removed to repair rivet damage, but the NTSB has not found evidence the bolts were reinstalled. The disclosure has prompted anger among Boeing's airline customers. Some, including Alaska Airlines, announced they would conduct enhanced quality oversight of planes before they leave the Boeing factory. Former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernandez's trial on U.S. drug trafficking charges began Tuesday, giving a New York jury the chance to determine whether Washington's onetime key anti-drug ally actually ran the Central American country as a "narco-state." Hernandez was close to Washington during his 2014-2022 tenure. Honduras received more than $50 million in U.S. anti-narcotics assistance and tens of millions more in security and military aid during his presidency, and he won support from former President Donald Trump for cracking down on migration. But three months after he left office, federal prosecutors in Manhattan charged him with accepting millions of dollars in bribes from cocaine traffickers in exchange for using his position to protect them. Attorney General Merrick Garland said he abused his power to operate the country as a "narco-state." That came nearly three years after his brother, former congressman Tony Hernandez, was convicted on U.S. drug charges and sentenced to life in prison. A prosecutor at that trial said Juan Orlando Hernandez protected his brother. Juan Orlando Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to three counts of cocaine importation conspiracy and illegal weapons possession. He has been detained at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center since his April 2022 extradition. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years and up to life in prison if convicted on all counts. The trial began with jury selection on Tuesday and is expected to last between two and three weeks. Prosecutors said that while Hernandez was campaigning in 2013, he accepted $1 million from Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, the leader of Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel. He used that money to bribe officials to manipulate voting results in his favor, and used similar tactics for his 2017 re-election, prosecutors said. "This rampant corruption and massive cocaine trafficking came at a cost to the people of Honduras," Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, told reporters after Hernandez was extradited. Hernandez has argued that drug traffickers have smeared him to seek to lighten their own sentences and to extract revenge over his administration's law enforcement actions. That argument has been used by other high-ranking Latin American officials who have been charged by the United States in recent years, including former Mexican security minister Genaro Garcia Luna, who was convicted last year on charges of taking bribes from El Chapo. "I'm really curious to see if this is going to be a prosecution that is just going to exhibit a long list of finger-pointing at him by convicted former drug dealers, or if this is going to be a prosecution showing unquestionable evidence that he was actually involved," said Edgar Zurita, a former law enforcement official at Mexico's U.S. embassy and current managing director at investigations firm Nardello & Co. El Chapo was himself convicted of drug trafficking in 2019 and sentenced to life in prison. Earlier in February, two co-defendants who were initially set to be tried alongside Hernandez - his cousin Mauricio Hernandez and former Honduras national police chief Juan Carlos Bonilla - pleaded guilty to drug trafficking Indian police fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse thousands of protesting farmers as they attempted to resume a march to the capital, New Delhi, on Wednesday after negotiations with the government failed to resolve a deadlock over their demands for guaranteed crop prices. It is the second time that the police used tear gas to thwart attempts by farmers to reach Delhi since they launched their protest last Tuesday (February 13). Farmers, mounted on tractors, came equipped with masks and gloves to protect themselves from the tear gas at Shambhu, about 200 kilometers from Delhi, where thousands have gathered. Some had also brought bulldozers and excavators to dismantle barricades erected along highways but hundreds of security personnel lined on both sides of the highway prevented them from moving ahead. Using loudspeakers, farm leaders urged them to fight for their rights. Local media showed police using water cannons at farmers at another protest site. Highways leading to Delhi have been heavily barricaded with concrete blocks, barbed wire and iron spikes to prevent the farmers from laying siege to key roads on the capital's outskirts as they did during a year-long mass protest in 2021. The farmers' leaders have urged the government to let them enter the capital. "We will remain peaceful but we should be allowed to remove these barriers and march towards Delhi," farm leader Sarwan Singh Pandher told reporters. Farmers launched their protest action last week accusing the government of failing to meet some promises it made when they called off the protest two years ago. Four rounds of talks in recent days have failed to break an impasse over their key demand for legislation that would guarantee prices for all crops. The farmers say that would buffet them from market fluctuations and help improve their incomes. Currently, the government announces subsidized prices for about two dozen agricultural products each year and buys some crops, such as rice and wheat, at guaranteed prices a system that began in the 1960s to encourage farmers to sow food grains at a time when India faced severe shortages. At the last round of talks, which broke down on Monday, the government had offered to extend price guarantees to some more crops such as pulses, maize and cotton, but that failed to satisfy the farmers. The government is urging the farmers to continue negotiations. "After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues," Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda posted on social media network X. "I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion. It is important for us to maintain peace." Farmers in India complain of stagnant or dwindling incomes, saying that crop prices have failed to keep pace with rising costs of inputs such as fertilizers and seeds. More than two-thirds of the country is dependent on farm incomes. The protest is being held months before India holds national elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party is widely seen as winning a third term in office. Political analysts said the government is using heavy security to prevent the farmers from reaching the capital because images of tens of thousands of farmers sitting around the capital were "bad optics." "If farmers reach the capital, they would get much more media attention just as they did during the last protest in 2021," pointed out political analyst Rasheed Kidwai. "Anything happening around Delhi becomes magnified. That is why the government wants to control the protest away from the city." Iran's oil minister on Wednesday accused Israel of a sabotage attack on an Iranian natural gas pipeline last week that caused multiple explosions on the line, further raising tensions between the regional archenemies against the backdrop of Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The accusations by Iran Oil Minister Javad Owji come as Israel has been blamed for a series of attacks targeting Tehran's nuclear program. The "explosion of the gas pipeline was an Israeli plot," Owji said, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. "The enemy intended to disturb gas service in the provinces and put people's gas distribution at risk." "The evil action and plot by the enemy was properly managed," Owji added, without providing any evidence to support his claims. Israel has not acknowledged carrying out the attack, though it rarely claims its espionage missions abroad. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a longtime foe of Iran, did not respond to a request for comment. The February 14 blasts hit a natural gas pipeline running from Iran's western Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province up north to cities on the Caspian Sea. The roughly 1,270-kilometer pipeline begins in Asaluyeh, a hub for Iran's offshore South Pars gas field. Owji earlier compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 including around the anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran marked the 45th anniversary of the revolution just days before the pipeline blasts. Israel has carried out attacks in Iran that have predominantly targeted its nuclear program. Last week, the head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog warned that Iran is "not entirely transparent" regarding its atomic program, particularly after an official who once led Tehran's program announced the Islamic Republic has all the pieces for a weapon "in our hands." Tensions over Iran's nuclear program come as groups that Tehran is arming in the region Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthi rebels have launched attacks targeting Israel over the war in Gaza. The Houthis continue to attack commercial shipping in the region, sparking repeated airstrikes from the United States and the United Kingdom. Despite a month of U.S.-led airstrikes, the Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. This week, they seriously damaged a ship in a crucial strait and downed an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. On Wednesday, ships in the Red Sea off the Houthi-held port city of Hodeida in Yemen reported seeing an explosion, though all vessels in the area were said to be safe, according to the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centers. The UKMTO earlier reported heavy drone activity in the area. Meanwhile, a suspected Israeli strike killed two people a neighborhood in Syria's capital, Damascus, on Wednesday, an area where other likely Israeli strikes have targeted members of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. Iran's nuclear chief on Wednesday dismissed a suggestion that the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, would visit Iran next month but instead invited Grossi to a conference in Tehran in May. Grossi said this week Iran was continuing to enrich uranium well beyond the needs for commercial nuclear use and said he planned to visit Tehran next month to tackle the "drifting apart" of relations between the IAEA and the Islamic Republic. But Mohammad Eslami said a visit next month was unlikely because of a "busy schedule" without giving further clarification. "Iran's interactions with the IAEA continue as normal and discussions are held to resolve ambiguities and develop cooperation," he said at a weekly press conference in Tehran. Eslami said Grossi had been invited to attend Iran's first international nuclear energy conference in May. Speaking to Reuters on Monday, Grossi said while the pace of uranium enrichment had slowed slightly since the end of last year, Iran was still enriching at an elevated rate of around 7 kilograms (15.4 pounds) of uranium per month to 60% purity. Enrichment to 60% brings uranium close to weapons grade and is not necessary for commercial use in nuclear power production. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons, but no other state has enriched to that level without producing them. Under a defunct 2015 agreement with world powers, Iran can enrich uranium only to 3.67%. After then-President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of that deal in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, Iran breached the deal and moved well beyond the restrictions. The U.N. nuclear watchdog said the 2015 nuclear deal "is all but disintegrated." Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is the European Union's longest-serving head of state and his critics say he has tightened his grip on power by eroding democracy. He has long been a thorn in the side of European and NATO unity, threatening to block support for Ukraine and EU sanctions on Russia. But as Henry Ridgwell reports from Budapest, Orban believes that he will soon have new allies in the West. Camera: Ancsin Gabor A recent study by the U.N. refugee agency warns that millions of Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced people face an uncertain future as Ukraine enters its third year of war with Russia and its battle for survival risks becoming a protracted crisis. After two years of full-scale war in Ukraine, amidst massive destruction and ongoing shelling and missile attacks across the country, the future for millions who have been displaced remains shrouded in uncertainty, Philippe Leclerc, the UNHCR regional director for Europe, said on Tuesday. Speaking in Athens, Greece, Leclerc told journalists in Geneva that preliminary findings from the study indicate that the majority of those surveyed expressed a desire to return home one day. He noted, however, that the proportion has declined, with more expressing uncertainty due to the ongoing war. The UNHCR study is based on interviews conducted in January and February with some 9,900 Ukrainian refugees, internally displaced and returnee households inside and outside the country. Leclerc said, Those displaced who were surveyed cited the prevailing insecurity in Ukraine as the main factor inhibiting their return, while other concerns included a lack of economic opportunities and housing. This Saturday marks the second anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine. In a stark reminder of the cost of the war, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says at least 10,000 civilians have been killed and more than 18,000 injured; nearly 6.5 million Ukrainians have sought refuge globally, while some 3.7 million people remain forcibly displaced inside the country. As war rages on, humanitarian conditions remain dire inside Ukraine, where some 40% of the population 14.6 million people are in need of humanitarian and protection support, said Leclerc, noting that this week also marks 10 years since the war in eastern Ukraine began. Although the war shows no sign of abating, Leclerc said 59% of Ukrainian refugees surveyed said they feared they would be compelled to return home if they continue to face challenges in host countries, mainly related to work opportunities and legal status. Separately, he said the study shows that despite the fighting, many refugees choose to return home because of the challenges they face abroad. That is due to family separation and the sorrow they feel about the many male family members remaining in Ukraine. The report reveals that family reunification was a main driver for refugees who have returned home permanently, he said. Dusan Vujasanin heads the International Committee of the Red Cross Central Tracing Agency Bureau for the war between Russia and Ukraine. He said his job is to learn the fate and whereabouts of people who have disappeared in this conflict. He explained that one of the main tasks of the ICRCs tracing bureau in this, as in other international conflicts, is to centralize all information about prisoners of war, about civilian internees, and all the other affected persons alive and also dead. As of now, he said, There are still 23,000 persons that are reported to the ICRC as missing, and that number keeps growing. Vujasanin said that Russia and Ukraine have abided by the obligation specified under the Geneva Conventions to put in place national information bureaus. Noting that both countries had put the system in place two years ago, he said the system is not perfect, but functions. We receive on a regular basis the list from the two parties to the conflict. At the same time, Vujasanin said, people searching for their family members contact the ICRC daily. We have been contacted in these two years over 100,000 times by different families, and in that period, we have opened up over 31,000 requests to search for missing persons. To date, he said the ICRC has been able to clarify the fate of 8,000 of the 31,000 missing persons and inform the families of their fate and whereabouts. Even talking now about it gives me goose bumps because I can assure you that we have families, mothers who are receiving news of the fate of their children after two, three, eight months, learning that they are alive. He said, however, the job is not finished because 23,000 families still do not have news about what has happened to their loved ones. The impact that this has on families, on this ambiguous loss of not knowing what happened to family members, weighs extremely heavily on these families, he said. And we also know from past experiences, from past conflicts, that this is an engagement that will take ICRC years of comforting the families and of continuing that search, he said. Extremist rebels in eastern Congo have killed at least two dozen civilians in separate attacks this week, local authorities and a civil society group said Tuesday. Rebels with the Allied Democratic Forces, which has ties to the Islamic State group, killed 13 people in Mambasa territory of Ituri province on Tuesday, said Christophe Munyanderu, coordinator for the Convention for the Respect of Human Rights. Most of the victims were killed in their homes, he said. In neighboring North Kivu province, the ADF killed at least 11 people with machetes and guns in Beni territory on Monday, said Col. Charles Ehuta Omeonga, the area's administrator. Civilians were also targeted in their homes, and the death toll is likely higher because some people are missing, he said. Violence has been simmering for years in eastern Congo, where about 120 armed groups fight for power, land, minerals or the safety of their communities. In recent years, ADF attacks have intensified and spread toward Goma, eastern Congo's main city, as well as Ituri province. Rights groups and the United Nations have accused the ADF of killing hundreds of people and abducting even more, including a significant number of children. Laman Ismayilova Azerbaijan's famous composer Fikrat Amirov's ballet "One Thousand and One Nights" keeps captivating ballet lovers worldwide. The ballet's new version was staged by the artistic director of the ballet company of the Primorsky Stage, Russian Honored Art Worker Eldar Aliyev. The Mariinsky Theater's Primorsky Stage presented the ballet in St. Petersburg as part of its traditional winter tour. The theatre showed a legendary ballet under the baton of the principal conductor and musical director of the Azerbaijani State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, Honoured Artist Ayyub Guliyev. "Since 2020, Fikrat Amirov's ballet One Thousand and One Nights has been successfully staged by the troupe of the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theater. I am very proud that this masterpiece by one of the most outstanding Azerbaijani composers is highly appreciated by ballet lovers. One Thousand and One Nights is always a great success. Each performance gives great joy to all ballet troupe artists and spectators. All four ballet performances in St. Petersburg were sold out. This once again shows that ballet is in great demand," the conductor told AZERNEWS. Ayyub Guliyev expressed his gratitude to the artistic director and general director of the Mariinsky Theatre, Valery Gergiev, who always pays special attention to the ballet production. "Staged by the artistic director of the ballet company of the Primorsky Stage, Russian Honoured Art Worker Eldar Aliyev, the ballet is distinguished with its stunning choreography, bright costumes and scenery, lighting effects, and wonderful music. The ballet involved the troupe of the Primorsky Stage, including Sergei Umanets, Arina Nagasake, Saki Nishida, and others, as well as the leading artists of the Mariinsky Theatre, Renata Shakirova, Teymur Asgarov, who brilliantly performed under Eldar Aliyev's leadership. The ballet was sold out. The Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra's musicians, Ramin Azimov and Nadezhda Medvedeva, also left the audience in awe with their magnificent tar performance," the conductor said. "Valery Gergiev congratulated us with a magnificent performance. Many public and cultural figures, as well as the Consul General of Azerbaijan in St. Petersburg, Sultan Gasimov, attended the event," he added. The renowned conductor also recalled the premiere of "One Thousand and One Nights" in Qatar. "The ballet has been successfully traveling around the world for many years, captivating audiences around the world. In 2023, the Qatari public welcomed the ballet with great interest. The skill of the ballet artists, who demonstrated the oriental tales through magnificent dances, left the audience in awe," said Ayyub Guliyev. He expressed his confidence that Fikrat Amirov's ballet "One Thousand and One Nights" will further continue to mesmerise the audience worldwide. "I am very proud that One Thousand and One Nights has caused a huge success. I can say that Azerbaijani ballets like One Thousand and One Nights, Love Legend, and Seven Beauties have taken an honourable place among world ballet masterpieces. Fikrat Amirov's ballet One Thousand and One Nights has been successfully staged in Russia, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Qatar, etc. It is also planned to demonstrate the ballet in China and Arab countries. Follow the news, there are a lot of interesting things ahead," he concluded. YANGON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar's authorities have seized 1.5 million stimulant tablets worth 3 billion kyats (about 1.42 million U.S. dollars) in southern Myanmar, according to the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC) late Tuesday. Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotic police searched a vehicle in Kyaikhto township of Mon state on Feb. 15, and seized the drugs along with three suspects. The next morning, another suspect who ordered them to carry the drugs was arrested in Daik-U township of Bago region. An investigation revealed that the seized tablets were planned to be transported from Shan state to Daik-U township and then to Kayin state. The suspects who were involved in the case were charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law, and further investigations were underway. Seoul's newly forged diplomatic ties with Havana are a diplomatic setback for North Korea, which views Cuba as a brother country, according to analysts. North Korea has had diplomatic relations with Cuba since 1960, and Cuba maintains an embassy in Pyongyang. South Korea did not have diplomatic ties with Cuba for 65 years, but the South Korean Foreign Ministry announced it agreed with Cuba to set up ambassador-level diplomatic relations between the two when their respective representatives to the United Nations met in New York on Feb. 14. North Korea has not made a public statement about South Korea's diplomatic ties with Cuba. "The establishment of full diplomatic relations between the ROK and Cuba is somewhat of a psychological and symbolic setback for the DPRK," said Evans Revere, a former State Department official with extensive experience negotiating with North Korea. South Korea's official name is the Republic of Korea (ROK). North Korea is officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). "Seoul's motivation was to regularize ties with a North Korean ally and achieve a diplomatic and political success in its ongoing competition with the DPRK," Revere said via email on Saturday. "Cuba's motivation was to try to improve its stagnant economy and improve the lives of its people," added Revere, a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution's Center for East Asia Policy Studies. Terence Roehrig, professor of national security affairs and a Korea expert at the U.S. Naval War College, said via email on Monday that establishing ties with Cuba is "a political win for Seoul in its competition with the North." He said that the two countries' economic relations will give Seoul expanded access to Cuba's mineral resources while Havana will obtain increased trade and investment from South Korea. Robert Rapson, who served as charge d'affaires and deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul from 2018 to 2021, said via email on Friday the Seoul-Havana ties probably do not cause Pyongyang "so much pain" diplomatically because it has strengthened ties with Russia and looks ahead to a possible meeting with Japan. Although Seoul and Havana have engaged in cultural exchanges, the newly established ties will aid economic cooperation that will support South Korean companies' entry into the Cuban market, said the South Korean Foreign Ministry in a Feb. 14 statement. South Korea imported more than $7 million worth of goods from Cuba while exporting $14 million in 2022, according to the Foreign Ministry. Among items that South Korea imported in 2022, copper accounted for $3.28 million, chemical products $2.13 million, and tobacco products $1.03 million, according to UN COMTRADE database, cited by Trading Economics, which compiles economic databases, indicators and indexes for 196 countries. The South Korean presidential office said Cuba could emerge as a new market if the bilateral economic ties develop and if the U.S. relaxes the trade embargo imposed on Cuba in 1962. The U.S. severed its diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1961 after Fidel Castro came to power in 1959. Washington officially restored diplomatic ties with Havana in 2015, but some U.S. policies were reversed in 2017. Revere said Washington has reacted in a "very low-key manner" because of the sensitivity of Cuba as a domestic political issue in the United States. However, he continued, the U.S. is probably "quite pleased with ROK-Cuba normalization, especially since Washington has also been trying to improve ties with the island. Going forward, the U.S. and the ROK will need to ensure that they coordinate their respective approaches on Cuba." South Korea has been working over the years to improve ties with the socialist country whose government bears more resemblance to North Korea's than its own. Havana's political power is wholly vested in its Cuban Communist Party, much like Pyongyang's ruling Workers' Party of Korea. Seoul's "bold and smart decision" in establishing ties with Havana could expose the Cuban government and people to South Korea's liberal democracy, said Joseph DeTrani, the special envoy for Six Party denuclearization talks with North Korea during the George W. Bush administration. "North Korea may feel threatened diplomatically by this move," DeTrani said via email on Friday. The South Korean Foreign Ministry said several cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts between the two countries have played a role in the normalization of the diplomatic relations. Among them are a Cuban film festival held in Seoul in 2022 and South Korean movies featured at an international film festival in Havana in December. The Foreign Ministry also said ArtCor, a fan club of approximately 10,000 members in Cuba devoted to Korean popular culture, contributed to the opening of the diplomatic ties. Approximately 14,000 South Koreans visited Cuba prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and about 1,100 ethnic South Koreans live in Cuba, according to the South Korean Foreign Ministry. Somalia's executive and legislative branches have approved a crucial 10-year defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has announced. Following a meeting in Mogadishu, Somalia's Cabinet approved the "Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement." Shortly after the Cabinet approval, the two houses of Somalia's parliament voted to endorse the pact in a 213-3 vote. Under the agreement, Turkey will build, train and equip the Somali navy, said Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, addressing members of the cabinet. Barre said the agreement will help to remove "any fears of terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing, toxic dumping and any external violations or threats" to Somalia's sea coast. Somalia has Africa's longest coastline. He described Turkey as a "true and reliable brother." President Mohamud, who also spoke to the media, noted Turkey is already helping Somalia with humanitarian assistance, budgetary support and the training of security forces. The new agreement comes amid increasing tension between Somalia and Ethiopia, sparked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, between Ethiopia and Somalia's breakaway Somaliland region. Under the MOU, Somaliland would lease to landlocked Ethiopia about 20 kilometers of coastline along the Gulf of Aden, allowing access to the Red Sea. Somaliland said that in exchange, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland as an independent country. Ethiopia has not yet officially confirmed it will recognize Somaliland. Somalia's federal government, which considers Somaliland part of its own territory, sees the deal as a violation of sovereignty and is demanding its cancellation. Mohamud said the agreement with Turkey is not aimed against Ethiopia. "We asked for the support not to fight Ethiopia or invade another country," he said. "It's to support us in defending our country. That is the origin of the agreement we have entered with Turkey." A Somali official who spoke to VOA Somali on the condition of anonymity because he is not allowed to discuss the subject with media said the agreement includes deployment of Turkish warships in Somalia's waters. It also includes "tapping marine resources for Somalia." The agreement was signed in Turkey on February 8 by Somalia Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and Turkey Minister of National Defense Yasar Guler. Guler said at the time he believes the deal will lead to the further development of "our bilateral military relations." Mohamud said Somalia has been looking for a country to enter with a bilateral agreement on building a navy. He said Turkey was the first country ready to help. Asked whether the deal between Somaliland and Ethiopia prompted the agreement, Mohamud said the government has been working on the agreement for some time. "It's just a coincidence," he said. Ethiopia and Somaliland have defended their deal. Ethiopian Prime Minster Abiy Ahmed recently said his country does not intend to cause harm to Somalia. "Ethiopia, being a friend, does not wish any harm to come upon Somalia," he said in a February 6 message posted on X, formerly Twitter. "Ethiopia does not acknowledge war against any country in principle," he wrote. "However, some forces are trying to incite conflict between the two nations, which should not happen. Our request is for sea access based on mutual benefit." Somalia external military support Turkey, the United States and Eritrea all have trained Somali soldiers with the goal of helping Somalia rebuild its army after decades of internal strife. In September 2017, Turkey established its largest overseas military training facility in Somalia. Since then, Turkey has trained thousands of Somali commandos known as Gorgor (the Eagle), as well as hundreds of officers and non-commissioned officers. Turkey said its engagement with Somali forces is to contribute to peace and stability in Somalia and improve the organization and infrastructure of the Somali National Army as it battles al-Shabab militants. Last week, Somalia's government and the U.S. signed an MOU for the construction of up to five military bases for the U.S.-trained elite Somali National Army forces known as the Danab (Lightning) Brigade. Hussein Sheikh-Ali, national security adviser to Somalia's president, told VOA last week that the U.S. will train 3,000 soldiers, most of whom have already completed the training. The aim is to start building the bases soon and finish within the calendar year, he said. "It would look like a military camp with a full capacity to host special forces," said Sheikh-Ali. He also said Somali security forces are aiming to assume responsibilities from the African Union Transition Mission (ATMIS), which is expected to withdraw from Somalia by the end of 2024. Syria said Wednesday that Israeli airstrikes hit a residential building in Damascus, killing at least two people. Syrian state media said the strikes took place in the Kfar Sousseh neighborhood, which is also home to security and military headquarters. There was no immediate comment on the strikes from the Israeli military, which has carried out numerous airstrikes in Syria in recent years. Israel rarely acknowledges the strikes but has said its actions in Syria target Iran-backed forces. A February 2023 airstrike hit the same neighborhood as the one in Wednesdays attack, killing several Iranian military experts. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. Two men have been charged with murder over the shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade which left one person dead and 22 wounded, officials said Tuesday. Dominic Miller and Lyndell Mays, both local residents, were charged with second-degree murder, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker told reporters. Peters Baker said Mays got into a verbal altercation with other individuals at the parade that "very quickly escalated." She said Miller allegedly fired the shots that killed a local DJ, Lisa Lopez-Galvan. Peters Baker said both men were being held on $1 million bond and face a potential sentence of life in prison on the murder charges. The prosecutor said the arrests of Miller and Mays were in addition to those of two juveniles whose arrests were announced last week. The pair, who were not identified because of their ages, are facing gun-related charges and are accused of resisting arrest. The shooting took place on Wednesday at the victory parade which had attracted up to a million fans to downtown Kansas City. The Chiefs were celebrating their third Super Bowl title in five seasons after beating the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas on Sunday. Mass shootings are common in the United States, where there are more guns than people and about a third of adults own a firearm. President Joe Biden deplored the shooting and issued a rallying call for Americans to back his pleas for Congress to enact gun reform. The European Union agreed Wednesday to enact a new round of sanctions against Russia in response to Moscows continued war in Ukraine. The sanctions include about 200 people and entities being banned from doing business with companies in the EU or traveling there. With this package, we are taking more action against entities involved in circumvention [of sanctions], the defense and military sectors, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. In addition to Russian firms, the sanctions target Chinese companies providing military technology to Russia. We must keep degrading Putin's war machine, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. With 2,000 listings in total, we keep the pressure high on the Kremlin. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones. Ukraines military said Wednesday that Russia attacked overnight with 19 drones and multiple missiles. The Ukrainian air force said the countrys air defenses shot down 13 of the 19 drones, as well as one of six missiles. The drones were intercepted over the Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions. Serhiy Lysak, the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor, said on Telegram that drones were shot down over two districts and Russian shelling also targeted the region. Lysak said there were no reported injuries. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov discussed battlefield developments in a phone call Tuesday, the Pentagon said. Secretary Austin reiterated the steadfast commitment of our coalition of some 50 Allies and partners to continue supporting Ukraine as Russia's full-scale war of aggression approaches the two-year mark, Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said in a statement. The U.S. has brought together a coalition of countries to coordinate support for the Ukrainian military in its fight against the full-scale Russian invasion. The latest round of talks last week took place amid a continued pause in U.S. contributions after funding for new Ukraine aid ran out in December. Umerov said Ukraines new army chief, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, joined the call to provide updates on the situation on the frontlines as well as Ukraines ammunition supply. Earlier Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed a $683 million military aid package from Sweden. Zelenskyy called Swedens support a significant contribution to Ukraines resilience in the face of Russian aggression and a powerful investment in preserving peace and freedom in Europe. Artillery ammunition, air defense, grenade launchers, combat boats, armored vehicles, and other items are meeting some of our frontline warriors' most pressing needs, Zelenskyy posted on social media. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the aid package was the largest yet his country is supplying to Ukraine, and that the equipment and weapons meet some of Ukraines most pressing needs. Ukraine is not only defending its own freedom but that of all of Europe, Jonson said. Sweden will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. Russia cannot be allowed to win this war. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. The U.N. Security Council designated six individuals for sanctions Tuesday for their destabilizing activities in Congo, where violence has escalated in the east this year, intensifying an already dire humanitarian situation. Those sanctioned are a general in the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR); two senior leaders in the Ugandan armed group Allied Democratic Forces (ADF); the military spokesman for the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group; the leader of the National Coalition of the People for the Sovereignty of Congo (CNPSC), a Mai-Mai group; and a commander in the armed group Twirwaneho. These individuals are responsible for numerous abuses, U.S. Deputy U.N. Ambassador Robert Wood said in the council. But to counter the flow of funds and arms to those who fuel conflict in the DRC [Democratic Republic of Congo], sanctions need to be kept up-to-date and fully implemented. Wood urged the international community to take immediate steps to end the fighting in the eastern Congo and de-escalate tensions between Congo and Rwanda. Each country blames the other for the instability. The United Nations has expressed grave concern about the deterioration in North Kivu province since a cease-fire expired at the end of December between Rwandan-backed M23 rebels and the Congolese army, known as the FARDC. Since 28 January, fighting between the M23 and the FARDC has intensified in several areas, and the M23 has expanded further south, leading to further displacement of populations towards Goma and South Kivu, said Bintu Keita, the head of the U.N. mission in Congo, MONUSCO. The M23 has its eye on Goma, the capital of North Kivu and a city of 2 million people where the U.N. estimates that 135,000 displaced people have fled this month. The rebels are now reported to be in the hills outside Sake town, 25 kilometers from Goma. MONUSCOs Keita says the fighting is complicating the humanitarian situation. Displacement sites are severely overcrowded, cholera and measles are on the rise, and Gomas isolation is disrupting food production and supply chains and causing prices to rise for basic commodities. The U.N. appealed Tuesday for $2.6 billion to assist nearly 9 million of the most vulnerable Congolese this year. Overall, there are more than 25 million people in need, including 8.4 million people affected by acute malnutrition most of them children. The United Nations on Tuesday urged Papua New Guinea to take immediate steps to address the root causes of tribal violence and work towards reconciliation following deadly clashes. Dozens of bloodied bodies were discovered in the PNG Highlands following a clash early Sunday between rival tribal fighters. "We urge the government of Papua New Guinea to effectively address escalating tribal violence and to engage with provincial and local leaders in a dialogue to achieve durable peace and respect for human rights in the Highlands region," U.N. human rights office spokesman Jeremy Laurence said. Conflicts among 17 tribal groups had progressively escalated since elections in 2022 over issues including land disputes and clan rivalries, he said. The clashes have increasingly turned deadly due to a proliferation of firearms and ammunition in the region, the spokesman added. "We call on the government to ensure the surrender of all arms, particularly mass-produced firearms," said Laurence. "The government must take immediate measures to address the root causes of the violence, and work toward tribal reconciliation. "The Highland communities, particularly women and girls, must be protected, and further harm to them prevented." The rugged and lawless area has been the scene of tit-for-tat mass killings between rival Sikin, Ambulin, Kaekin and other tribesmen for years with each retaliatory attack fueling a fresh round of atrocities. Clans have fought each other in the Highlands for centuries, but an influx of mercenaries and automatic weapons has made clashes more deadly and escalated the cycle of violence. A U.S. delegation met with the military ruler of Gabon on Tuesday and reiterated the need for a quick return to constitutional order six months after the nations August 30 coup. Even so, the U.S. ambassador to Gabon who led the delegation, Vernelle Trim FitzPatrick, said economic and diplomatic relations with the Central African state will be reinforced despite sanctions imposed on Gabon's coup leaders. Military ruler General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema pleaded for U.S sanctions to be lifted. Speaking later on Gabons state television, FitzPatrick said the United States finds it important to discuss strengthening trade and commercial relations with Gabon to gain the support of the U.S Congress in fostering ties with the nation. FitzPatrick, who has been ambassador to Gabon for about a month, also said the United States will assist with the transition to civilian rule but did not say how. Gabon's military, led by Nguema, ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in a bloodless coup on August 30. The military accused Bongo of rigging Gabon's August 26 elections and ruining the countrys economy. After the coup, Washington suspended most nonhumanitarian aid and asked for a quick return to constitutional order. Gabon's military leaders said elections would be held in August 2025, after an inclusive national dialogue this April. Nembe Patrice, an economic adviser at Alternance 2023, a group of opposition parties created in 2023 to fight for political change in Gabon, said civilians want Nguema to organize elections and hand power to democratically elected officials. He also said he hopes the United States will advise Nguema not to be a candidate. Britain's High Court on Wednesday finished hearing two days of arguments over whether to grant WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange a fresh appeal against his extradition to the United States to face espionage charges. Two senior judges heard evidence from his lawyers and those representing Washington, and opted against making an immediate decision on what is likely Assange's final UK bid to block extradition. "We will reserve our decision," judge Victoria Sharp said as the latest legal proceedings in the long-running case concluded. It is unclear when she and judge Jeremy Johnson will issue their ruling. Washington indicted Assange, the Australian founder of WikiLeaks, multiple times between 2018 and 2020 over its publication of hundreds of thousands of secret military and diplomatic files on the U.S.-led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Assange has since waged a half-decade battle against being sent there, but has lost successive rulings in recent years. If he fails again, he could be extradited within weeks. Lawyers for the U.S. government urged the court to reject his arguments on various grounds. Clair Dobbin said that Assange had "solicited" the secret U.S. files and, in eventually publishing them "indiscriminately" without redactions, that his actions were "unprecedented" and did not constitute journalism. "The evidence shows that from the time the appellant started WikiLeaks... he sought to recruit individuals with access to classified information," Dobbin added. "He worked with hackers." In response, one of Assange's lawyers, Mark Summers, hit out at Dobbin's testimony for failing to address that he was exposing "state-level crimes." "We heard no answer at all," he said, adding "that is protected conduct" under UK law. Assange was absent from court for the two-day session, and did not follow the proceedings via video due to illness, his lawyer said. Dozens of his supporters massed outside on both days, demanding that the judges halt his extradition. His lawyers said Tuesday that the US charges were "political" and that he was being prosecuted "for engaging in ordinary journalistic practice of obtaining and publishing classified information." Assange's lawyers also argued that the decades-long prison sentence he faces was "disproportionate," accusing Washington of acting in "bad faith" and contravening its extradition treaty with Britain. U.S. President Joe Biden has faced domestic and international pressure to drop the 18-count indictment against Assange in a Virginia federal court, filed under his predecessor Donald Trump. Major media organizations, press freedom advocates and the Australian parliament have all denounced the prosecution under the 1917 Espionage Act, which has never been used over the publishing of classified information. "We call again on the Biden administration to find a political solution to bring this case to a close," Reporters Without Borders said Wednesday, adding that Assange "cannot get a fair trial" in the United States. But in court, Dobbin noted the prosecution had continued under two different presidential administrations because "it is based on law and evidence, not political inspiration." It had "profound consequences" for both the U.S. and those whose names were disclosed, she added. If the High Court rules against Assange, he will have exhausted his UK legal options. His wife Stella Assange has said he would then ask the European Court of Human Rights to temporarily halt the extradition. This would need to happen within 14 days of losing the appeal bid, his lawyers say. The couple, who have two children together, met while Assange was holed up in Ecuador's London embassy for seven years from 2011. He had fled there to avoid extradition to Sweden, where he faced accusations of sexual assault that were later dropped. He was arrested by UK police in 2019. A UK district judge previously blocked his extradition on the grounds he would likely kill himself in US custody. But the High Court reversed the decision on appeal in 2021 after Washington vowed not to imprison him in its most extreme prison, "ADX Florence." It also pledged not to subject him to the harsh regime known as Special Administrative Measures and eventually allow him to be transferred to Australia. In March 2022, the UK's Supreme Court refused permission to appeal there, arguing that Assange had failed to "raise an arguable point of law." Months later, the interior minister at the time, Priti Patel, formally signed off on his extradition. The White House is moving forward with reforms aimed at shoring up cybersecurity at U.S. ports, some of which may already be in danger of falling under the sway of hackers linked to China. President Joe Biden issued an executive order Wednesday assigning responsibility for cybersecurity at ports and other maritime facilities to the U.S. Coast Guard, with the goal of making sure minimum security requirements are put in place as quickly as possible. The order also will allow the Coast Guard to conduct cyber safety inspections of facilities and ships, and even limit the movement of vessels suspected of posing a cyber threat to U.S. ports. The changes also call for mandatory reporting of cyberattacks on maritime facilities. "The continuity of their [U.S. ports] operations has a clear and direct impact on the success of our country, our economy and our national security," White House Deputy National Security Adviser Anne Neuberger told reporters. "A cyberattack can cause just as much, if not more, damage than a storm or another physical threat." There are more than 300 ports in the United States, employing an estimated 31 million Americans. U.S. officials say those ports contribute about $5.4 trillion to the country's economy while serving as the main points of entry for cargo from around the world. "Any disruption to the MTS [Marine Transportation System], whether manmade or natural, physical or in cyberspace, has the potential to cause cascading impacts to our domestic or global supply chains," said Rear Admiral John Vann, commander of the Coast Guard Cyber Command. The executive order, Vann said, provides the Coast Guard "with clear authority to take action in the face of cyber threats." Already, U.S. officials have sounded alarms about more than 200 Chinese-made ship-to-shore cranes, used in loading and unloading cargo at ports and maritime facilities across the U.S. "By design, these cranes may be controlled, serviced and programed from remote locations," Vann said, calling them "vulnerable to exploitation." Previously, The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. defense officials expressed concerns that the cranes could be used by China to spy on materials being shipped into and out of the U.S. But those concerns have only grown as U.S. law enforcement and cybersecurity officials have warned repeatedly in recent weeks that China-linked hackers have been lurking in critical systems and computer networks across the country, poised to strike if Beijing gives the order. An advisory issued by the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) warned that, in some cases, hackers with the group known as Volt Typhoon had been hiding in some computer networks and systems for "at least five years." "What we've found to date is likely the tip of the iceberg," CISA Director Jen Easterly said in a statement at the time. To combat the danger with Chinese-made cranes at U.S. ports, the Coast Guard is issuing a security directive that "will impose a number of cybersecurity requirements on the owners and operators of PRC-manufactured cranes," Vann said. Details of what the directive entails, though, are being kept quiet, with the Coast Guard set to work directly with the owners and operators of the Chinese-made cranes to ensure compliance. At the same time, the White House announced plans to start weaning U.S. ports off Chinese-made equipment, announcing a $20 billion investment aimed at spurring U.S. production of ship-to-shore cranes for the first time in 30 years. Officials said talks are already underway with PACECO Corporation, a U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Mitsui E&S. China has repeatedly denied U.S. accusations about its weaponization of cyberspace. And on Wednesday, it labeled concerns about Chinese-made cranes as "entirely paranoia." "We firmly oppose the U.S. overstretching the concept of national security and abusing national power to obstruct normal economic and trade cooperation between China and the U.S.," said Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, in an email to VOA. "Playing the 'China card' and floating the 'China threat' theory is irresponsible and will harm the interests of the U.S. itself," Liu added. U.S. officials, however, have said that the security directive targeting the Chinese-made cranes was issued following threat assessments by U.S. Coast Guard on 92 of the cranes currently in operation in the U.S. U.S. officials also caution that while there are substantial concerns about China, the risk of cyberattacks from other entities, including criminal gangs, is also substantial. In particular, officials referenced the June 2023 cyberattack that shut down the Japanese port of Nagoya for more than two days. The cybersecurity measures aimed at securing U.S. ports are just the latest in a wave of reforms aimed at protecting critical U.S. infrastructure. This past March, the U.S. implemented changes to protect drinking water and sewer systems from cyberattacks. Security measures for pipeline owners and operators went into effect in July 2022. And U.S. Homeland Security officials rolled out cybersecurity measures for rail and air transportation in October 2021. MANILA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- One person died and six others were injured after a fire ripped through a residential area here on Wednesday, authorities said. The Bureau of Fire Protection said the fire erupted in the morning and spread fast, burning several houses in Santa Mesa in Manila. Firefighters extinguished the blaze two hours later, local authorities said. The Pentagon has confirmed that Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen shot down a MQ-9 Reaper drone on Monday. A U.S. MQ-9 was downed or went down off the coast of Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, in the Red Sea. Initial indications are that it was shot down by a Houthi surface-to-air missile, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters in response to a question by VOA. Earlier, a U.S. official requesting anonymity to discuss national security issues had confirmed to VOA the U.S. drone was shot down near Hudaydah in eastern Yemen. It is still unclear whether the drone was armed at the time of the downing. Video circulating on social media allegedly shows parts of a busted drone on a beach. This marks the second downing of an MQ-9 by the Houthis. The first was in November in international airspace. Houthi militants launched a massive wave of attacks on Monday, hitting two ships traveling in international shipping lanes. One, a Marshal Islands-flagged, U.S.-owned bulk carrier, sustained minor damage from a Houthi-launched drone attack, while the Greek-flagged, U.S.-owned grain carrier M/V Sea Champion reported minor damage from an attack by two anti-ship ballistic missiles in the Gulf of Aden. The M/V Sea Champion continued toward its scheduled destination to deliver grain to Aden, Yemen, according to U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East. Singh criticized the Houthis for targeting a ship meant to provide food for starving Yemeni civilians. I mean, look at exactly what you're doing. You're putting your own population at risk, she said. CENTCOM said it destroyed a surface-to-air missile launcher in Houthi-controlled Yemen on Monday, along with a drone in western Yemen that was prepared to launch at ships in the Red Sea. U.S. and coalition aircraft and warships also shot down 10 drones and one anti-ship cruise missile in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden overnight. It is progress. And we're going to keep holding them accountable until they stop, Singh told reporters. But she warned that without the support of Congress to get a budget and supplemental funding passed through the U.S. House of Representatives, things are not going to be sustainable. The Houthis hit the M/V Rubymar, a Belize-flagged, U.K.-owned bulk carrier, with an anti-ship ballistic missile on Sunday. The ship was transported to a nearby port by a merchant vessel and a coalition warship. The U.S. conducted five strikes on Saturday against the Houthis, one of which took out an unmanned submarine. CENTCOM said in a statement it was the first observed Houthi employment of an underwater drone since attacks began in October. The Iranian proxies have said their attacks against international shipping lanes are carried out in solidarity with Hamas. Hamas launched an attack on October 7 that killed 1,200 people in Israel and captured about 240 hostages, about 100 of whom were released in November. The Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry says Israels counteroffensive has now killed more than 29,000 Palestinians. The United States warned Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the United Nations on Tuesday that they "must walk back from the brink of war," as tensions between the neighbors ratchet up. Kinshasa, the United Nations and Western countries say Rwanda is supporting a rebel group active in eastern DRC in a bid to control vast mineral resources in the region, an allegation Kigali denies. After several months of relative calm, intense fighting resumed last month around the city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. "Parties to the conflict and regional actors should immediately resume the Nairobi and Rwanda [peace] processes diplomatic efforts, not military conflict, are the only path for a negotiated solution and a sustainable peace," said Robert Wood, an American envoy to the U.N., at an emergency meeting concerning the DRC. After years of dormancy, the M23 (March 23 Movement) took up arms again in late 2021 and has since seized vast swathes of North Kivu province. Since early February, Goma which stands between Lake Kivu and the Rwandan border has been practically cut off from the country's interior. The DRC's military is supported by myriad local armed groups, two foreign private military companies, and the presence of U.N. peacekeepers and troops from the Southern African Development Community. A high-level meeting between the top U.S. homeland security official and his Chinese counterpart is giving Washington reason to hope that current talks may eventually help stem the flow of drugs such as fentanyl into the United States. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas met with Chinese Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong in Vienna on Sunday for talks focused on stopping the spread of fentanyl and the chemicals used to make the powerful synthetic opioid. A U.S. readout of the meeting with the People's Republic of China official described the talks as "candid and constructive," and senior officials told reporters Tuesday that there were signs progress is being made. "This was a really productive set of meetings," a senior U.S. official told reporters, agreeing to brief them on the meeting under the condition of anonymity. The official said the initial meeting between Mayorkas and Wang lasted about four hours, with discussions continuing over dinner. The officials also said the two sides left Vienna with a commitment for scientists from the two countries to have further talks later this month to review "emerging trends" when it comes to the development and trade of the chemicals needed to manufacture fentanyl and other drugs. Sunday's meeting in Vienna follows a virtual meeting last month between Mayorkas and Wang as well as a January 30 meeting of the U.S.-PRC Counternarcotics Working Group. "There have been concrete specific actions," the senior U.S. official said Tuesday, explaining the guarded optimism. "We saw the PRC take action with respect to particular companies. We know that they also shared information with the International Narcotics Board, which helps other countries also track actors and chemicals of concern," the official said. "Ultimately, obviously, our goal is to stop the flow of precursor chemicals from the PRC to Mexico and then finished products up from Mexico to our country," the official said. "We are focused on the kind of the concrete work of the working group on specific steps that we can take that will help us advance those goals." According to China's state-run Xinhua news agency, Chinese officials also described the meeting in Vienna as constructive but said Chinese officials were focused on U.S. visa restrictions for Chinese students. The PRC's Wang told Mayorkas that the U.S should "stop harassing and interrogating Chinese students for no reason and ensure that Chinese citizens enjoy fair entry treatment and full dignity." A second senior U.S. official who briefed reporters Monday acknowledged the Chinese officials raised concerns about current U.S. visa restrictions but declined to elaborate, saying the focus of the meeting was counternarcotics. Sunday's meeting between Mayorkas and Wang in Vienna came two days after talks in Munich between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on a variety of issues including Beijing's counternarcotic efforts and U.S. searches of Chinese nationals. The Israeli military said Wednesday it carried out airstrikes in northern and southern Gaza, a day after the United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, scaled up aid access and rejected the forced displacement of Palestinians. The Israel Defense Forces reported killing dozens of militants, including in the Khan Younis area of the southern part of the Gaza Strip. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said Wednesday it recorded 118 deaths during the past day, pushing the total number of Palestinians killed to 29,313 with another 69,333 injured since the war began in October. Demanding an immediate, unconditional cease-fire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace, said U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the Algerian-drafted resolution. For weeks, the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Israel have been involved in delicate negotiations aimed at the release of all hostages and an extended pause in the fighting. Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel, extend the hostages time in captivity, an experience described by former hostages as 'hell,' and extend the dire humanitarian crisis Palestinians are facing in Gaza, Thomas-Greenfield said, adding none of us want that. Algeria first presented the 15-member Security Council with its text three weeks ago and delayed a vote to give those negotiations time. But the countrys Ambassador Amar Bendjama said silence is no longer an option and it is time for the council to act. We are rapidly approaching a critical juncture where the call to halt the machinery of violence will lose its significance, he said of Israels impending incursion on the southern city of Rafah, where 1.5 million Palestinians are sheltering. Today, every Palestinian is a target for death, extermination and genocide, he said. We should ask ourselves; how many innocent lives must be sacrificed before the council deems it necessary to call for a cease-fire? The Algerian text had strong council support 13 members voted for it, Britain abstained, and the U.S. cast its veto. It is the third time Washington has used its council veto to block a cease-fire measure. The call for a cease-fire should have been agreed to a long time ago, Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour said. What fresh hell needs to be crossed for this council to finally demand a cease-fire? Israels envoy called the idea of a cease-fire absurd and not a magic solution. So why is the council charged with security so fixated on aiding these monsters staying in power? Ambassador Gilad Erdan asked, warning Hamas would attack Israel again given the chance. Erdan urged the council as a whole to condemn the Hamas terror attack of Oct. 7, which it has so far not done. Several council members said in their remarks that the council should take this step. US counter-proposal The United States is proposing its own draft resolution, which several diplomats said had not yet been officially circulated at the council. Seen by VOA, it calls for a temporary cease-fire as soon as practicable and based on a formula of all hostages being released. It also notes the urgent need for a viable plan to protect civilians from an Israeli offensive in Rafah. The U.S. proposal underscores that such a major ground offensive should not proceed under current circumstances and rejects any other effort at forced displacement of the civilian population in Gaza. Colleagues, this is not, as some members have claimed, an American effort to cover for an imminent ground incursion, Thomas-Greenfield said of the U.S. text. Rather, it is a sincere statement of our concern for the 1.5 million civilians who have sought refuge in Rafah. Thomas-Greenfield told reporters that the United States would work with other council members in good faith to get the resolution over the finish line. Israel has warned it plans to carry out an offensive in Rafah, the area of southern Gaza along the Egyptian border. Israeli officials say the operation is necessary to target Hamas members there. The officials have also mentioned evacuations of civilians without providing any detailed plans. United Nations officials have repeatedly said no place is safe for civilians to go in Gaza. Egypt objects to the evacuation of Palestinians into its territory, saying it would amount to their forced displacement. Israel denies that is its intention. The World Food Program said it is pausing deliveries in northern Gaza, until safe conditions are in place for distribution. About 300,000 people are believed to still be living in the north, in dire conditions including looming famine. WFP said it resumed deliveries Sunday after a three-week suspension after an aid truck was hit in an air strike. But chaotic situations with crowds climbing aboard their trucks, looting and violence, including gunfire, had impeded food distribution and made it unsafe. Israel began its military campaign to eliminate Hamas after the groups fighters crossed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people according to Israeli officials and taking about 250 others hostage. Hamas, designated a terror group by the U.S., the U.K. and EU, is believed to still be holding about 130 hostages in Gaza, including 30 who are believed to be dead. Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. The U.S. on Tuesday vetoed an Arab-backed United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza. But this time, Washington proposed calling for a temporary cease-fire and rejecting an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah without civilian protection. Patsy Widakuswara reports. The Israeli military said Wednesday that it had carried out airstrikes in northern and southern Gaza, as the head of the World Health Organization said the enclave had become a death zone. Israeli media reported that the Israel Defense Forces had announced the death of one soldier killed Tuesday in heavy fighting in northern Gaza, bringing to 237 the number of troops killed in the offensive against Hamas. The IDF said it had carried out strikes against Hamas targets in Gaza Citys Zeitoun neighborhood, including weapons depots and tunnels. In the south, it reported having killed dozens of militants, including in the Khan Younis area. Medical aid organization Medecins Sans Frontieres said Israeli forces conducted an operation Tuesday in Al Mawasi, northwest of Khan Younis, where a shelter hosting MSF staff and their families was shelled. The organization said at least two family members of staff had been killed and six wounded, including two children who suffered burns. We are horrified by what has taken place, MSF wrote on the social media platform X. U.N. humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths said he was appalled by the attack. Humanitarians are putting their lives on the line, he wrote Wednesday on X. Like all civilians, they must be protected. In an opinion piece published Wednesday in the Brazilian newspaper Folha, Griffiths urged G20 members meeting in Rio de Janeiro this week to use their political leadership and influence to help end the war in Gaza, where the Palestinian death toll is approaching 30,000. The atrocities befalling the people of Gaza and the humanitarian tragedy they are enduring are there for the world to see, documented by brave Palestinian journalists, too many of them have been killed while doing so, he wrote. No one can pretend not to know. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, said Wednesday that Gaza has become a death zone. Much of the territory has been destroyed, more than 29,000 people are dead, many more are missing, presumed dead, and many, many more are injured, he told reporters in Geneva. WHO has worked this week with the Palestine Red Crescent Society to evacuate patients from the besieged Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis to two field hospitals in southern Gaza. Tedros said they had carried out several emergency missions. Around [111] sick and injured patients and at least 15 doctors and nurses remain in the hospital, he said. Israel accuses Hamas of operating in and under the hospital. Cease-fire demands fail The latest fighting followed the failure Tuesday of the U.N. Security Council to demand an immediate cease-fire, after the United States vetoed an Algerian-drafted resolution that had the support of 13 of the councils 15 members. Demanding an immediate, unconditional cease-fire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield said of the proposed text. Algeria first presented the council with its text three weeks ago and delayed a vote to give negotiations led by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar for the release of the hostages time to succeed. But the countrys ambassador said silence was no longer an option. We are rapidly approaching a critical juncture where the call to halt the machinery of violence will lose its significance, Ambassador Amar Bendjama said of Israels impending incursion on the southern city of Rafah, where 1.5 million Palestinians are sheltering. Israels envoy called the idea of a cease-fire absurd and not a magic solution. The United States is proposing its own draft resolution, which was presented to council members on Wednesday, diplomats told VOA. Seen by VOA, it supports a temporary cease-fire in Gaza as soon as practicable, based on the formula of all hostages being released. It also objects to an expected major Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, saying it should not proceed under current circumstances. Israel has warned it plans to carry out an offensive on Hamas targets in Rafah before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan if the hostages are not released. Ramadan starts around March 10. Israeli officials have also spoken of evacuations of civilians from the area without providing any detailed plans. Israel began its military campaign to eliminate Hamas after the groups fighters crossed into southern Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people, according to Israeli officials, and taking about 250 others hostage. Hamas, designated a terror group by the U.S., the U.K. and EU, is believed to still be holding about 130 hostages in Gaza, including 30 who are believed to be dead. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Masvingo provincial affairs minister Ezra Chadzamira says his region wants President Emmerson Mnangagwa to serve for a third term. Zimbabwe's constitution clearly stipulates that a president is supposed to serve only eight years in office. (Video: VOA) UNITED NATIONS Israel's military on Tuesday reported intense fighting in the Khan Younis area of the Gaza Strip, while the United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that calls for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, scaled up aid access and rejects the forced displacement of Palestinians. "Demanding an immediate, unconditional cease-fire without an agreement requiring Hamas to release the hostages will not bring about a durable peace," said U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the Algerian-drafted resolution. For weeks, the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Israel have been involved in delicate negotiations aimed at the release of all hostages and an extended pause in the fighting. "Instead, it could extend the fighting between Hamas and Israel, extend the hostages' time in captivity, an experience described by former hostages as 'hell,' and extend the dire humanitarian crisis Palestinians are facing in Gaza," Thomas-Greenfield said, adding "none of us want that." Algeria first presented the 15-member Security Council with its text three weeks ago and has delayed a vote to give those negotiations time. But the country's Ambassador Amar Bendjama said silence is no longer an option and it is time for the council to act. "We are rapidly approaching a critical juncture where the call to halt the machinery of violence will lose its significance," he said of Israel's impending incursion on the southern city of Rafah, where 1.5 million Palestinians are sheltering. "Today, every Palestinian is a target for death, extermination and genocide," he said. "We should ask ourselves: how many innocent lives must be sacrificed before the council deems it necessary to call for a cease-fire?" The Algerian text had strong council support 13 members voted for it, Britain abstained, and the U.S. cast its veto. It is the third time Washington has used its council veto to block a cease-fire measure. SEE ALSO: "The call for a cease-fire should have been agreed to a long time ago," Palestinian envoy Riyad Mansour said. "What fresh hell needs to be crossed for this council to finally demand a cease-fire?" Israel's envoy called the idea of a cease-fire "absurd" and not a magic solution. "So why is the council charged with security so fixated on aiding these monsters staying in power?" Ambassador Gilad Erdan asked, warning Hamas would attack Israel again given the chance. And he urged the council as a whole to condemn the Hamas terror attack of October 7, which it has so far not done. Several council members said in their remarks that the council should take this step. US counter-proposal The United States is proposing its own draft resolution, which several diplomats said had not yet been officially circulated at the council. Seen by VOA, it calls for a temporary cease-fire "as soon as practicable" and based on a formula of all hostages being released. It also notes the "urgent need for a viable plan" to protect civilians from an Israeli offensive in Rafah. The U.S. proposal "underscores that such a major ground offensive should not proceed under current circumstances" and "rejects any other effort at forced displacement of the civilian population in Gaza." "Colleagues, this is not, as some members have claimed, an American effort to cover for an imminent ground incursion," Thomas-Greenfield said of their text. "Rather, it is a sincere statement of our concern for the 1.5 million civilians who have sought refuge in Rafah." Thomas-Greenfield told reporters that the United States would work with other council members in good faith to get their resolution "over the finish line." Israel has warned it plans to carry out an offensive in Rafah, the area of southern Gaza along the Egyptian border. Israeli officials say the operation is necessary to target Hamas members there. The officials have also mentioned evacuations of civilians without providing any detailed plans. United Nations officials have repeatedly said no place is safe for civilians to go in Gaza. Egypt objects to the evacuation of Palestinians into its territory, saying it would amount to their forced displacement. Israel denies that is its intention. Satellite images show that Egypt has started building a high-security buffer zone near the border with Gaza in case of a mass exodus. The World Health Organization said Tuesday it led an evacuation of 32 critically ill patients from the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis "amid ongoing hostilities and access restrictions." The WHO said hospital staff requested the transfers after an Israeli military raid last week left the facility "non-functional." "The dismantling and degradation of the Nasser Medical Complex is a massive blow to Gaza's health system. Facilities in the south are already operating well beyond maximum capacity and are barely able to receive more patients," the WHO said in a statement. "WHO repeats its calls for the protection of patients, health workers, health infrastructure, and civilians. Hospitals must not be militarized, misused, or attacked." The World Food Program said it is pausing deliveries in northern Gaza, until safe conditions are in place for distribution. About 300,000 people are believed to still be living in the north, in dire conditions including looming famine. WFP said it resumed deliveries on Sunday after a 3-week suspension after an aid truck was hit in an airstrike. But chaotic situations with crowds climbing aboard their trucks, looting and violence, including gunfire, had impeded food distribution and made it too unsafe. Israel began its military campaign to eliminate Hamas after the group's fighters crossed into southern Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people according to Israeli officials and taking about 250 others hostage. Hamas, designated a terror group by the U.S., the U.K. and EU, is believed to still be holding about 130 hostages in Gaza, including 30 who are believed to be dead. Israel released video Monday of what it believes is hostage Shiri Bibas and her two young boys, Ariel, 4, and Kfir, 9 months, being led along a dirt street in Khan Younis shortly after their October 7 abduction. Their father, Yarden Bibas, is also still held hostage. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the military's chief spokesperson, said the army found the videos in security cameras seized during its offensive in Khan Younis. Israel's military campaign has killed 29,195 Palestinians and injured 69,170 others, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Acting Secretary for Foreign for Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Head of Zimbabwe's Senior Officials delegation, Ambassador Rofina Chikava, said in a meeting with Belarusians about undisclosed investments in Zimbabwe. Critics say the bilateral agreements are only benefiting the elite. Donald Trump on Monday ended his lengthy silence on the death of Alexei Navalny, in a statement that avoided criticism of the Kremlin and instead portrayed the Russian opposition leader's sudden passing as a sign of a collapsing United States. Navalny died in unexplained circumstances at age 47 in an Arctic prison last week, shocking Russia's exiled opposition as well as the West, where leaders have blamed President Vladimir Putin and authorities in Moscow. But former US president Trump, who is leading in Republican Party primary polls ahead of the United States' November elections, had been mum on the issue -- in the face of growing criticism -- until a Monday social media post which focused on what he called a "failing" America. "The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our country," Trump said on his Truth Social website. "It is a slow, steady progression, with crooked, radical left politicians, prosecutors and judges leading us down a path to destruction." Trump decried "open borders, rigged elections and grossly unfair courtroom decisions" in the United States, which he called "a nation in decline." The post did not mention the Russian government or Putin. Trump's main rival for the Republican nomination, Nikki Haley, dismissed the post as "unhinged" and said Trump was "declaring himself the victim." "Did he condemn Putin as the brutal thug that he is? No. Did he praise Navalny's courageous fight? No. Did he acknowledge Putin's role in killing Navalny and so many others who dared to stand up to the Russian dictator? Of course not," a statement from her campaign said. The statement came a day after Haley, who is trailing far behind Trump in the Republican primary, criticized him for his initial silence, calling it "concerning" and "a problem." Trump also recently stunned Western allies after saying he would "encourage" Russia to attack members of the NATO military alliance who had not met their financial obligations. Putin has long been admired by certain strains in the US hard-right, including by Trump, who has a history of praising the Kremlin leader, for example calling him a "genius" and more credible than US intelligence. bur/st/nro SEOUL, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's export fell in the first 20 days of this month owing to lower business days, customs office data showed Wednesday. Outbound shipment declined 7.8 percent from a year earlier to 30.72 billion U.S. dollars in the February 1-20 period, according to the Korea Customs Service. Considering the number of working days, the daily average export expanded 9.9 percent in the 20-day period. The monthly export kept an upward trend for the fourth consecutive month through January. Import tumbled 19.2 percent to 31.95 billion dollars in the February 20-day period, sending the trade deficit to 1.23 billion dollars. Semiconductor shipment jumped 39.1 percent to 5.29 billion dollars in the cited period, marking the fastest 20-day growth in two and a half years since August 2021. Export for automobiles, steel products, auto parts and precision machinery all retreated in double digits. Import for crude oil, natural gas, coal, machinery, oil products, cars and mobile devices recorded a double-digit fall in the 20-day period. Its their legacy. Photo: Mark and Colleen Hayward/Getty Images Sam Mendes is making four Beatles biopics, one for each Beatle. Frankly, this sounds dull. Music biopics are becoming the nadir of culture the new safe hit now that superhero movies are flopping and the awards-bait gambit that everyone loves to hate. And the Beatles are one of the most examined, cross-examined, reappraised, interrogated, and canonized acts of all time. There are documentaries, there are short films, there are tribute episodes of The Simpsons and The Powerpuff Girls, theres The Rutles, theres Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, there are the movies the Beatles actually made. Theres fucking Yesterday. Its all been covered already, ground into the dirt by boomers like a Minion meme on Facebook. Except one thing. That time they all jerked off together. Paul McCartney has told the story many times. When he and John Lennon were lads in Liverpool, theyd regularly hang out with other Liverpudlian lads and have a group j/o sesh in the dark. We used to have wanking sessions when we were young at Nigel Whalleys house in Woolton, McCartney said in his official biography. Wed stay overnight and wed all sit in armchairs and wed put all the lights out and being teenage pubescent boys, wed all wank. What we used to do, someone would say, Brigitte Bardot. Oooh! That would keep everyone on par, then somebody, probably John, would say, Winston Churchill. Oh, no! and it would completely ruin everyones concentration. However, frequent Beatle collaborator Victor Spinetti said the fap four kept the habit up even during their years of megafame, occupying down time while filming their movies with wanking games. It seems possible. Film sets are notoriously boring, and stars come up with all sorts of hobbies to keep themselves busy. Joan Crawford knit, and the Beatles did this. So depending on whose version you believe, the Beat the Meatles event could be in two to four of these Beatles movies. It should be in at least one for several reasons: Queerbaiting is so hot right now. As time goes on, the weird edges of stories tend to get sanded off. At this point, John Lennon is either a peacenik saint or a wife-beating villain in the eyes of most. All hero or all villain. But dont forget! He was also horny. The sensuality of the Beatles has gotten a little lost as their music essentially becomes childrens music. Or at least the stuff parents and kids can both listen to. But they honed their craft in German strip clubs. They wife-swapped. And they cranked it to Winston Churchill, apparently. You could soundtrack it to All Together Now. John actually wrote a sketch about this for the revue Oh! Calcutta! So you know hed be down. Ringo is left-handed but plays a right-handed drum kit. Which hand does the southpaw paw his south with, is what I wanna know. Dont you want to see the Are sex scenes in films necessary? discourse on Twitter go absolutely insane? Lacanian film theorists believe cinema is inherently scopophilic, which maybe explains why there are so many iconic onanistic scenes in film Fast Times at Ridgemont High, The Dreamers, Saltburn, Gus Van Sants version of Psycho. These movies seem pretty masturbatory already. Might as well go whole hog, so to speak. Constellation leans into depicting motherhood as a negotiation between mother and child while also entertaining the nightmarish suggestion that space itself could be sentient, with Noomi Rapaces Jo as the link between these two ideas. Photo: Apple TV+ Space exploration has become such an allegory for fatherhood that theres a whole cinematic subgenre populated by sad dads stepping into astronaut suits, hurtling themselves into the unknown, and trying to feel something, anything, remotely close to emotional equilibrium. In Apple TV+s latest sci-fi series Constellation, Noomi Rapaces Johanna Ericsson has no patience for such lugubrious paternal indulgence. Shes a space mom, and Constellation spins into an increasingly beguiling and horrifying watch as it uses her to invert our assumptions about the galactic expanse as a place for self-discovery. Constellation presents motherhood as an esteemed role and also something that should be a choice, a responsibility to which one can only authentically devote themselves if they crave its demands and rigors, rather than resigning themselves to it. Similar to a high-stress career like, say, an astronaut on an international space station it requires a level of attention and effort that must be recommitted to over and over again. But being a space mom doesnt require a jaunt beyond Earths orbit to make one realize how much they value their family. In Ad Astra, Interstellar, and First Man, the immensity and alienness of our galaxy mirror the unknowability of our fathers; their loneliness and emotional distance is first impenetrable, then something to overcome so they can return to Earth cleansed. Constellation, meanwhile, never questions the devotion and centrality Rapaces Jo has to her family unit, instead putting its energy toward pondering the assumed neutrality of space. What if space has its own agenda and intentions, its own memories and designs? Constellation leans into depicting motherhood as a negotiation between a mother and her child while also entertaining the nightmarish suggestion that space itself could be sentient, and Rapace is riveting as the link between these two ideas. In the series premiere, Jo survives a catastrophic accident on the International Space Station and returns to Earth with an account of what happened that none of the other astronauts backs up: She insists that a dead body collided with the station, causing the death of an American astronaut and destroying so much of the ISSs interior that the entire installation has to be abandoned. Jo sticks with her story, even when belligerently debriefed by Roscomos official Irena Lysenko (Barbara Sukowa), treated skeptically by her husband Magnus (James DArcy), and challenged by Constellation itself as it messes around with the narrative timeline. Could Jos memories be wrong? There are other little things that shes messing up, too, like the color of her familys car and the layout of their living room. NASA commander Henry Caldera (Jonathan Banks) asks her about the data from an ISS experiment, but she has no idea what hes talking about. (Bankss storyline is the seriess most opaque and tied up in science gobbledygook, but it also unlocks Constellations driving theoretical idea while giving Banks the opportunity to play someone entertainingly nasty.) Even Jos relationship with her daughter Alice (Rosie and Davina Coleman) doesnt seem entirely right; the 10-year-old is so distant from her mother that she seems practically disinterested in her return. Rapace excels in roles that ask her first to hover on the edge of a commitment and then dive into resolution, and Jo does this over and over professionally as she tries to convince her colleagues of what she saw, heard, and felt on the ISS. But the seriess real stakes are in how Jo handles that decisiveness personally, and in how her version of motherhood (authoritative, fierce, warm) morphs and adapts to her own changing sense of self. Who Jo and Alice are supposed to be to each other is Constellations primary concern, and although the series follows in the footsteps of the legendary Aliens and the underseen Proxima in its depiction of the mother-daughter bond, it deviates from both by sinking into the contradictory undercurrents of adoration, suspicion, mimicry, and jealousy that can fuel that relationship. Alice might be one of the most annoyingly sassy and pouty TV children in recent memory, but the Colemans do impressive work nailing her deep loneliness and mercurial temper, as does Rapace as a mother sure of both what she saw on the ISS and her love for her daughter, but unsure whether the two can coexist. Rapaces postLisbeth Salander characters in Close, Lamb, and the paired Prometheus and Alien: Covenant positioned her as principled, protective women who wonder how much caring for another living thing whether birthed of their body or not will alter them. Constellation places Rapace in a tweaked version of that framing: Can Jo care for herself if her body does things she was unaware it could do? In episode four, she plays a piano with no prior knowledge of how to do so, appearing to hold back a scream as her fingers fly over the keys, seemingly independent of the rest of her body. Rapace conveys how her anatomys capability for reproduction and repetition is a source of terror, but also something she can wrest under her control, and she grounds Constellation, and the wild body-horror events of its later episodes, with that balance. The Jo-Alice relationship is one pillar of this eight-episode first season, and Constellations method of examination, cross-examination, and then hold up, wait, let me look at that first evidence one more time reexamination is another. Creator Peter Harness starts the series near the end, then rewinds to add more dialogue and context to certain events and interactions, and then proceeds forward again with additional knowledge but also the possibility of even more alteration down the line. Its not unlike Dark, 1899, Archive 81, Dead Ringers, or Bodies in that approach, which feels like a microcosm of the seriess larger obsession with the process of decision with interrogating why someone would listen to an order or ignore it, sacrifice their life or take anothers, turn left at a crossroads or turn right and what happens after that selection is made. The series generates puzzle-box mysteries and tension through those propositions, and then expands those queries into grander ones about human behavior. Is international collaboration, especially between the United States and Russia, actually possible when the countries still hide so many secrets from each other? (A foundational concern of fellow Apple TV+ series For All Mankind, too.) How do we honor the people who pulled off some of our greatest feats of engineering and daring, like the moon landing, when accusations of fake news and conspiracy theories are more normalized than theyve ever been? And are the same genius minds that do so well with esoteric quantum-theory stuff potentially more susceptible to blur the lines between the real and not-real to put their belief in what might be imagination and hallucination instead of fact? That last uncertainty provides the rationale for the seriess most irrational and most unsettling images and sounds, which director Michelle MacLaren deploys with finesse: a cabinet that disappears and reappears, a booming din reverberating in its absence; a fabric veil, a dismembered arm, and spurts of blood floating like ghosts in zero-gravity; elements of Hugo Simberg paintings The Wounded Angel and The Devil by the Pot bleeding together into distorted images. Each episode becomes its own contained exercise in can you spot the difference? and it works! A scene in second episode Live and Let Die in which Jo and Alice are first seated together in a helicopter, then inexplicably lose sight of each other, is a fascinating example of the series using framing and editing to contemplate the connection between a mother and her child. As Jo and Alice react to the others sudden absence, Constellation uses limited perspectives to craft the characters own fragmented realities and to offer an alternative to the unknowability at the heart of the space-dad film. Amid the debris of so many galactic stories that came before it, Constellation charts its own outlook on the mysterious expanse of space. Constellation The Wounded Angel Season 1 Episode 1 Editors Rating 4 stars * * * * Previous Next Previous Episode Next Episode Photo: Apple TV+ The premiere of Constellation is a total mood. Directed by Michelle MacLaren and starring Noomi Rapace and Jonathan Banks, the first hour of the series is full of stark contrasts, overt references to the duality of (wo)man, achy parental bonds, and oodles of space intrigue. Constellation immediately categorizes itself as a thinking persons show. It boasts layered stories set in space and the frozen tundra of Europe both of which feature moments of fractured reality and a central character who has to piece together a mystery of her own potentially fractured identity in real time. After a strange incident occurs on the International Space Station (ISS), astronaut Jo Ericsson (Noomi Rapace) begins to sense that something has gone awry in her reality. The strong premiere telegraphs the idea that Constellation will be a show thats tons of fun to talk about with the smartest people you know. (That is, if there are actual answers involved.) More than once throughout the premiere, I wrote, Is this all going to make sense? in my notes. And I sure hope so! MacLaren certainly creates a compelling ambience for the world of the series with her careful camerawork and a striking blue-and-orange color palette, but at times it feels like the central narrative might hinge on the nonsensical. Jonathan Banks lends his trademark gravitas to the story line as a space veteran whos focused on a mysterious glowing canister called the CAL, but strip away his deadly serious treatment of this story line, and it all might seem a bit silly. That said, the premiere is otherwise so compelling, so well acted, and so thoughtfully shot that its easy to set these concerns aside and be swept away by the story. The mystifying CAL serves as the axis for the narratives orbit. The episode kicks off on a dark, wintry road as Jo nervously drives away with her daughter Alice (Davina and Rosie Coleman) in the chilly backseat. Theres no heat or so Jo says and, as Jo warily eyes an approaching police vehicle, theres a sense that an Amber Alert situation might be unfolding here. Jo and Alice arrive at a cabin, and Jo sets to work lighting lanterns. Jo is acting cagey around Alice, and Alice seems nervous because her would-be protector seems to have gone a little batty. She asks for a story, and Jo plays her a video of a story called The Little Rocket Girl that she recorded when she was on the ISS. Then, time goes a little screwy, and Jo finds herself running through the woods, a glowing canister by her side. The images of Jo racing through the woods, orange light pulsing over the inky darkness of a nighttime blizzard, are striking in their ability to evoke feelings of helplessness and isolation. Isolation is a prominent running theme throughout this episode. Here, the focus seamlessly shifts from the biting elements on Earth to the vacuum-sealed beauty of space. The transition between these two inhospitable environments feels wholly organic. Humans shouldnt be able to survive in either the bracing cold or hundreds of miles above the atmosphere in a metal tube, but here we are. Our tenacity and nimble thinking allow us, as a species, to thrive even when we should be dead. Jo is lovingly FaceTiming Alice on her iPad (we see you, Apple!) when something goes horribly wrong. Theyre doing something fiddly with the CAL, she says, just minutes before Paul presses a button, and all hell breaks loose. The show seems to be suggesting that the CAL might not have caused the destruction. Just as Paul starts his experiment, theres a point-of-view shot of something rapidly approaching the ISS. Is it a billionaires rocket gone rogue? An alien life force? Clooney from Gravity?! It turns out that the item is actually a body. What?! And not only is it a body, but its the desiccated body of a female cosmonaut from the Soviet Union. Continuing the delightful orange-blue color palette of this episode, the cosmonaut is dressed in an orange flight suit, and as Jo frees her from the wreckage, we see her bright space suit contrasted against the dreamy blue Earth below. Jo panics, asking that they check the oxygen mix in her space suit. Is she hallucinating? She couldnt have just seen a body. Could she? Inside the craft, the rest of the crew is dealing with the aftermath of the incident. Pauls arm has been pinned down, and Ashley is performing CPR as weightless blood blobs assault her face. I know that astronauts get a ton of intense training before going on missions, but I dont feel like theres anything that can prepare a person for blood blobs in space. Ashley gives it her all, but Paul succumbs to his wounds. She reports back to the ground: Paul is dead. The CAL-focused Henry (Jonathan Banks) frantically pops a bold-yellow-and-red pill as the news of Pauls death reaches him. As things go haywire on the ISS, Alice and her gentle father, Magnus (James DArcy), are retrieved so they can communicate with Jo in case anything goes wrong. Like her mother, Alice also oddly seems to be experiencing some fractures in her reality. As she boards the private jet, she sees Pauls daughter and his wife in a blurry double, indicating that maybe there were multiple ways in which this scenario could have played out. Meanwhile, Jo is seeing double on the ISS. After finding out that the damaged escape capsule only has enough life support for a single occupant, Jo insists that the others depart in the functional one. The damaged unit needs a ton of repairs that need to be completed quickly as Jo only has 19 hours of oxygen left. As they close off parts of the ISS to conserve vital functionality, Jo scoots out to grab Alices necklace. This gives Mission Control an absolute heart attack, but it gives Rapace a moment to show off some of the core tenets of her character shes daring, confident, and playful. At least this version of Jo is. It feels clear that reality splits or shifts somewhere within this episode, but the exact moment it does so is unclear. The idea of the multiverse has been explored in popular media lately, most notably within the Marvel franchise, but Constellation seems to be taking a more subtle, Sliding Doorslike approach to the situation. What if only a few things in your life were tweaked because of decisions you made or situations outside of your control? Do all of those selves exist within the universe? How might you get back to where you needed to be? The clearest indication that something fiddly has happened with reality is when Mission Control asks Jo to bring back the CAL, and she responds that shes never heard of it. She has! We know she has because she was literally talking to Alice about it in their last conversation; theres no way she forgot about it, even given the trauma shes just experienced. So, which version of herself is she now? Hopefully, shes a version of herself that remembers all that astronaut training. Rapace exudes a cool confidence and unflappable focus in her scenes where she has to remove large batteries in zero gravity, using a strip of magnetic tape to hold each small piece in place. God, space is so stressful. However, Jo isnt a robot, and Constellation works to play up the relationship between mother and daughter to great effect. Getting us to buy into the emotional bond between Alice and Jo is crucial to the way that this story is going to unfold. But the Alice we see on Earth doesnt necessarily seem as connected to her mother as the Alice we saw on the iPad earlier in the episode. As she and her father travel to the command center, she mentions that she knows her parents are having some marital trouble. Somehow, it feels like shes on her dads side here. Why wouldnt she be? Shes still at an age where feeling overcomes logic, and her mom left for a year, and her father has been her primary caretaker. Its worth considering that the perfect vision of Alice that Jo has in her head might never have existed. On the ISS, Jo is notified that the Soyuz 2 capsule has landed successfully. Watching the landing on the ground, Russian space lady Irena (Barbara Sukowa) pops one of the same pills we saw Henry take when Paul died. Curious. As Jo struggles to perform her duties, the scene shifts back to that cabin in the woods. If the beginning of the episode didnt explicitly say that the events at the cabin took place five weeks after the initial ISS disaster, I would have been fully convinced that Jo was hallucinating them. Jo is losing time. Shes lost in the blizzard. The snow starts to fall in slow motion. She keeps coming back to different realities with Alice in different positions in the cabin. Then, she leaves for what seems like a moment but comes back to a deserted cabin. Theres a dusting of snow covering everything in the interior. And as Jo approaches a large wardrobe, she sees Alices necklace hanging on the knob. She opens it, and a bedraggled and partially frozen Alice looks up at Jo. Mama, she says. Alternative Orbits The official Apple TV+ press release says that the show will uncover the truth about the hidden history of space travel, a concept that is only hinted about in this episode but promises to uncover another level of intrigue. That cabin in the snow-covered woods looks eerily like the Yellowjackets cabin. Just sayin. There is a framed painting in the cabin that catches the eye. In it, an angel with a bloodied wing is carried on a stretcher by two men in black. A quick Google search tells me this is The Wounded Angel by Hugo Simberg. The title of the painting also serves as the title for the episode; the symbolism behind the work is worth pondering. However, it seems that theres no consensus on the symbolism behind the image in fact, Simberg didnt even title this piece for years; there was just a long dash where the title should have been so its a choose-your-own-adventure situation! Fun! Paul is dead. The wording here feels pointed. Quick vintage conspiracy-theory recap: Paul is dead was a rumor from the 1960s that focused on Beatles visionary Paul McCartney. The story goes that Paul died, and instead of reporting his death, the rest of the band hired a Paul look-alike and kept on keeping on. Of course, McCartney didnt die Wonderful Christmastime notwithstanding, the man has continued to demonstrate his singular musical genius for decades since the rumors started but the idea that someone could replace him so seamlessly got many people talking. In a similar vein, Jos daughter is named Alice, which immediately evokes thoughts of Alice in Wonderland. (It cant be a coincidence that the girls favorite toy is a stuffed rabbit.) Did anyone else Google Has anyone died in space? while watching this episode? Just me? VULTURE NEWSLETTER Keep up with all the drama of your favorite shows! 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. Shes gonna do it. (Make Barry Keoghan Mr. Tumnus.) Photo: James Devaney/GC Images Soon, friends, family, and co-workers will be re-ingrained in the Great Debate: Sure, Turkish delight is good, but is it good enough to sell out your family to a gorgeous evil witch? Greta Gerwig, fresh off momentous Barbie success, is getting back to a project she was already working on. Gerwig had already started writing a draft of her upcoming adaptation of C.S. Lewiss Narnia stories before even beginning the filming of Barbie, she told Time in a February 21 profile. The project was first revealed in July 2023, with Gerwig making at least two movies in the series. Slowly but surely, details about the series are eking out about the next entry in the Great Battle for Fantasy. When fighting in the streaming wars, its always good to have a resurrected lion Jesus on your side. Which of Narnias Chronicles, exactly? Gerwig may be chronicling Narnia, but theres a lot of lore in that world, and two movies wouldnt come close to covering the whole series. Makes sense for at least one to be based on The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, the first book written and the best-known entry into the series. Still, the original series release pattern eschewed chronological order. Lewis first put out TLTWTW in 1950, continued the series for three chronological installments in 1951 to 1953, put out two separate prequels, The Horse and His Boy (1954) and The Magicians Nephew (1955), and then ended the series with The Last Battle in 1956. The Disney- and Fox-released film series in the 2000s only made three movies, never getting to the planned adaptation of the fourth-released book, The Silver Chair, despite a 2014 fan contest to name the films antagonist. Those films avoided the prequels altogether, as did the 198890 BBC series. In November 2023, Scott Stuber, the thenfilm chief of Netflix, told Variety that, while The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the preeminent book, Gerwig was working on how to break the whole arc of all of [the series]. So, what do we know? Gerwig told Time that she was drawn to the paradox of the worlds that Lewis created, through the combination of mythologies like Greek fauns, Father Christmas, and the British Empire. Ted Sarandos, meanwhile, told the magazine that Gerwigs version of the story will be bigger and bolder than what audiences imagine. Lewiss version of the story is deeply associated with Christianity to the point where Talking Narnia to Your Neighbors is a real 2005 headline from the Evangelizing website Todays Christian Woman. In terms of adaptation, Stuber confirmed to Variety in his November interview that Gerwigs version is rooted in faith, Previous examples of Gerwigs work being informed by Christianity include Lady Bird eating non-blessed communion wafers, Lady Bird getting suspended for sassing a pro-life activist, and Barbie killing God. This time, Susan Pevensie, the deicides on you. When is this coming out? Big Red first acquired the rights to the Narnia series in 2018, but still no movie. Not even the Golden Age Prophecy could tell us. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed in court. Photo: Eddie Moore/POOL/AFP via Getty Images Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed will go on trial in Santa Fe, New Mexico, over the 2021 fatal Rust shooting, facing an involuntary manslaughter charge. The films cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, died on-set after Alec Baldwin allegedly fired a prop gun loaded, unwittingly, with live ammo, also injuring director Joel Souza. Assistant director David Halls allegedly passed Baldwin the gun to practice his scene, and Santa Fe prosecutors have claimed that Gutierrez-Reed, 26, failed to properly review the ammunition in the gun. They have also accused her of allowing live ammunition on-set. If jurors find her guilty of involuntary manslaughter, she faces a maximum 18-month prison sentence, per the Los Angeles Times. Gutierrez-Reeds defense is expected to place the blame on Baldwin and negligent set safety conditions. Baldwin, who is also charged in Hutchinss death, is set to stand trial on July 9. Both have pleaded not guilty to the involuntary manslaughter counts against them. Here is what we know about the prosecutions case against Gutierrez-Reed including testimony from assistant director David Halls, who already pleaded no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon in relation to the incident. Jurors started deliberating in Gutierrez-Reeds trial on Wednesday, March 6. Who is Hannah Gutierrez-Reed? Prior to the Rust tragedy, Gutierrez-Reed was an up-and-coming armorer who came into the industry through her stepfather, legendary Hollywood armorer Thell Reed. While Thell was frequently away from their Bullhead City, Arizona, home working, he was largely responsible for raising her, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Those familiar with Gutierrez-Reed describe her as an ambitious theater kid and academic achiever in high school, per the report. Thell eventually brought Gutierrez-Reed to sets and taught her about firearms. She studied film at Northern Arizona University and graduated in 2020. Gutierrez-Reeds coursework included cinematography and lighting-design classes, as she wanted to become a cinematographer, per the outlet. Gutierrez-Reed had just a handful of other film gigs on her resume before Rust. She worked as a costume assistant on the 2020 film Millennium Bugs, according to IMDb. She worked as Thells assistant on the western Murder at Yellowstone City. Gutierrez-Reeds big break came shortly thereafter with another western, Nicholas Cages The Old Way. Per The Hollywood Reporter, this was her first armorer job that she landed without her stepdad. Gutierrez-Reeds Old Way colleagues reportedly had mixed sentiments about her work. Per The Wrap, key grip Stu Brumbaugh said that she angered Cage and others on-set because she allegedly failed to abide gun-safety protocols, such as announcing that weapons had arrived and were being used on the set. Brumbaugh claimed he told the assistant director shes a rookie and needed to be let go. What allegedly happened on the Rust set? On October 21, 2021, Baldwin discharged a prop firearm on the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set, resulting in Hutchinss death and injuries to Souza. It was said that assistant director Halls allegedly handed the gun to Baldwin. In court papers further detailing this incident, prosecutors said that Gutierrez-Reed loaded a .45 long Colt caliber revolver and loaded it before a lunch break. She took the gun and locked it in a safe that was in the prop truck. Prosecutors allege that she didnt abide safety protocol requiring the unloading and proper storage of rounds that appear to be real, but are actually dummies, before locking up the revolver. Prosecutors claim that after lunch, she didnt conduct a safety check of the gun before giving it to Halls, marking the third time Gutierrez-Reed did not properly, or to industry standards and safe practices, clear and show safe the weapon and rounds. Halls, meanwhile, entered a no-contest plea to negligent use of a deadly weapon and was sentenced to six months of unsupervised probation, ABC News reported. Right before the tragedy, Hutchins and Souza were standing in front of Baldwin, where they were rehearsing camerawork for a scene. Baldwin, who was wearing a shoulder holster with the revolver in it, was practicing drawing and pointing the weapon. Baldwin drew the gun and, prosecutors allege, fired the weapon, striking Hutchins and Souza. Prosecutors insist that the scene required only dummy rounds and not blank rounds. But the bullet recovered from the scene appeared to be live ammunition, not a dummy round. Prosecutors insist that Gutierrez-Reed was responsible for everything firearm related on the Rust set, including safety and training, and contend that as a result, Hutchinss death and Souzas injury fall on her shoulders. What are the charges against her in the Rust shooting? Gutierrez-Reed is charged with involuntary manslaughter. This charge alleges that Hutchinss death was caused with the commission of an unlawful act, to wit: negligent use of a deadly weapon. She is also charged with evidence tampering. What have prosecutors said about Gutierrez-Reed in the trial so far? In their opening statement on February 22, prosecutors argued that Gutierrez-Reed was squarely to blame for the circumstances leading to Hutchinss death including the fact that live rounds were on the Rust set. Gutierrez-Reed failed to conduct a safety check of the rounds when she took it out of the safe following lunch, and failed to do a check with she handed the weapon to Halls, prosecutor Jason Lewis alleged. By failing to make those vital safety checks, the defendant acted negligently and without due caution, Lewis said. The decisions she made that day ultimately contributed to Ms. Hutchinss death. Lewis told jurors that they would hear from Gutierrez-Reeds colleagues who, he claimed, would show her cavalier behavior. We intend to call several witnesses to give testimony that she regularly failed to properly carry out her duties as an armorer. These witnesses are going to describe the defendants conduct as unprofessional and sloppy. Lewis ended his opening by citing Gutierrez-Reeds own words in an interview with law enforcement after the shooting. She says at the end: I just I dont know. I wish I would have checked it, Lewis said. And so do we. Gutierrez-Reeds lawyer, Jason Bowles, said during his opening statement that the production was rife with safety issues and that theyre wrongly shifting the blame to her. Just because there was a tragedy does not mean that a crime was committed. It does not mean that Hannah Gutierrez really caused the crimes they have charged her with, Bowles said. Were going to, through the course of this case, show you that production and the state have both very early sought to make Hannah Gutierrez-Reed a scapegoat. He said that a series of events happened leading up to the tragedy, including the fact that Baldwin was holding the gun that fired the fatal round. The actor pointed a gun on that set. And he either had his finger on the trigger and the hammer cocked, or he pulled the trigger, as he was pointing that at Miss Hutchins and Mr. Souza, who was right behind. He described the set organization as highly unusual, and said that it was the productions fault not Gutierrez-Reeds. What they tried to do, and what youre seeing in this courtroom today, is trying to blame it all on Hannah, the 24-year-old, because, why? he said. Because shes an easy target. Shes the least powerful person on that set. What did David Halls say in his testimony? The prosecutions case so far has been painting Gutierrez-Reed as cavalier with safety precautions on a set that was already prime for disaster. On Monday, February 26, the prosecution called dolly grip Ross Addiego to testify about Gutierrez-Reed; he described her behavior on set as unprofessional. Addiego said there had been several accidental discharges on set, something he didnt recall happening during other productions. She wasnt necessarily as serious or professional as I am accustomed to with the other armorers that Im familiar with, Addiego told jurors, per Variety. I dont know that Ive ever seen an armorer pull loose ammo out of a fanny pack. He alleged that Gutierrez-Reed left ammo and firearms unsecured and claimed she was not uptight like other armorers he had worked with in his 30 years in film. Addiego also claimed that hed expressed safety concerns with Halls previously and that Mr. Halls ignored me and walked away. He also said that production was rushed with a set that was in a state of chaos, according to the report. Halls, who pleaded no contest in relation to the fatal incident, took the stand against Gutierrez-Reed on Thursday, February 29. His account in court stood in sharp contrast to prior descriptions of how Baldwin got the gun, per the Associated Press. Halls claimed that it was Gutierrez-Reed who gave Baldwin the gun not him. He said that Gutierrez-Reed handed the firearm to Baldwin twice. The first time, the bullets were unloaded. The second time, it was loaded with a few dummies and one live round, Halls reportedly said. I did not see Ms. Gutierrez take the gun from Mr. Baldwin, the AP quoted him as saying, but she appeared back on my left-hand side and she said that she had put dummy rounds into the revolver. He also said, She took a few steps to Mr. Baldwin and gave Baldwin the gun. Halls description of the events conflicts both Gutierrez-Reeds account of who gave Baldwin the gun, as well as Baldwins previous statements. At first, Baldwin told authorities that Gutierrez-Reed handed him the weapon; then, he said that it was actually Halls, the AP said. Halls did say on the witness stand that he was negligent in checking the gun properly and didnt look to see whether all the rounds were, in fact, dummies. Another witness who testified on February 29 was former prop manager Sarah Zachry. Right after the shooting, Zachry testified, she threw out dummies from two guns. The dummies were dumped in a garbage can that wasnt used by Baldwin, the AP said of Zachrys testimony. Zachry, who described this as a reactive decision, said she later told authorities about this. Have any experts testified? Yes. Among them was expert armorer Bryan Carpenter. During testimony on February 29, Carpenter alleged that Baldwin was basically instructing the armorer how to do their job, which led to an unsafe and nerve-wracking situation, according to the New York Post. He told jurors that Gutierrez-Reed should have rebuffed Baldwins alleged insistence on speed, saying, In a situation like that where youre being rushed to that extent, thats when safety starts falling by the wayside. In other words, it was her responsibility to ensure safety even if Baldwin were to balk at her attempts. Firearms expert Lucien Haag also testified. During Haags testimony on Tuesday, February 27, Haag claimed that there wasnt anything wrong with Baldwins gun remember, the actor has claimed it went off without him pulling the trigger and that his actions led to its fatal discharge. Haag, who has long worked with New Mexico law enforcement, said that he rebuilt the gun after federal investigators damaged it. I think it [is] your conclusion that the Baldwin revolver that you examined, in your expert opinion, that the shooter had to have fully cocked that weapon and pulled the trigger to fire it? the prosecution asked, per the Wrap. Either fully pulled the trigger, or already depressed it if hed already depressed it, the very instant he let go of the hammer, it would fire. Haag didnt quite describe the federal investigators handling of gun-testing in good terms. He said that the Feds examined the hammer by dropping the gun or hitting it, which Haag cast as unnecessary. While the Feds examination damaged the weapon, Haag said he rebuilt the firearm and was confident in his conclusion that it didnt malfunction. Indeed, Haag said that after rebuilding it, the gun was perfectly functioning. Has there been any other important testimony? Seth Kenney, who furnished ammunition to the Rust production, testified on Monday, March 4. The prosecution asked Kenney whether he ever provided live ammunition to the set, to which he responded No. They also asked whether he gave live ammunition to Zachry, to which he also responded No. Gutierrez-Reeds defense, however, presented photos showing what appear to be poorly organized containers in the hopes of proving Kenneys work was disorganized, Court TV noted. What happened during closing arguments? During closing arguments on March 6, the prosecution said that Gutierrez-Reed repeatedly erred, leading to the deadly accident. This is not a case where Hannah Gutierrez made one mistake, and that one mistake was accidental putting a live round into that gun, prosecutor Kari Morrissey stated during her closing, per ABC News. This case is about constant, never-ending safety failures that resulted in the death of a human being and nearly killed another. She said there was copious circumstantial evidence that Gutierrez-Reed brought the live ammo onto the set. Im not telling you Hannah Gutierrez intended to bring live rounds on set, Morrissey reportedly argued. Im saying she was negligent, she was careless, she was thoughtless the astonishing lack of diligence with regard to gun safety is without question a significant cause of the death of Halyna Hutchins. Gutierrez-Reeds lawyer, Jason Bowles, said that authorities were quick to place the blame on his client and that prosecutors hadnt proven that she brought live ammunition to the set. I submit to you what caused her death is Mr. Baldwin going off script. No one ever knew there would be a live round on set, NBC News quoted Bowles as saying. The only act is the pointing of the weapon. Ms, Gutierrez didnt point that weapon. What is Baldwins role in the trial? Legal experts believe that the Gutierrez-Reed trial will give Baldwins defense a boost when he is tried in July as it will show prosecutors plan. Either way, the Gutierrez-Reed trial is a win-win for Baldwin. If Gutierrez-Reed is convicted, Baldwins lawyers will argue that she was solely responsible for Hutchinss death. If she is acquitted, Baldwins attorneys will still get a preview of the testimony and evidence that will come in at trial, said Neama Rahmani, president of West Coast Trial Lawyers. Prosecutors have botched this case for many reasons, but putting the Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin cases on different timelines is a mistake. The conventional wisdom is that prosecutors are better off trying co-defendants together, and the district attorneys office lost this advantage because of its own lack of preparation. The devil works hard, but the biopic industrial complex works harder. This time, the machine snagged Regina King into its made-for-history-class clutches. The Oscar-winning actor is Shirley Chisholm in Netflixs upcoming film, playing the first Black woman elected to Congress as she launches her presidential campaign in 1972. Her staffers and constituents are dumbfounded by the decision in the first trailer. Student coordinator Robert Gottlieb (Lucas Hedges) cant hide his bewilderment in her Capitol chambers, while an outspoken extra tells her she aint no man. Responding to another cynic, she asks why she cant win. I have an opportunity to make a difference, she says to one. To another: Im paving the road for a lot of other people who look like me to get elected. John Ridley directs King, Hedges, Terrence Howard, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Andre Holland, and Lance Reddick in one of his last roles. Shirley hits Netflix on March 22, an election year gift from our leader, Regina King. Related Dear reader: I laughed so hard I cried (or did I cry so hard I laughed?) in the final moments of this weeks The New Look, which, over the sound of Perfume Genius shakily singing, What a Diffrence a Day Makes implies that Christian Dior saved fashion and the nation of France, all while Ben Mendelsohn as Christian Dior sews a dress on a doll as historical information characterized by entirely unnecessary but necessarily dramatic ellipses is displayed onscreen. This is a compliment to the series impeccable, undeniable boomer instincts. Television as we know it is back in full force, a return to form (pun intended) but with an unfathomable amount of Apple money. The BBC-to-PBS pipeline aesthetic is back, baby! But thats not the only thing thats back. John Malkovichs shaky Shailene Woodleyesque French accent returns in full force in episode four when he basically invents Barbie. Theatre de la Mode (Theater of Fashion) the exhibition that Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture Parisienne president Lucien Lelong proposes both to revive French couture and his friend/employee Dior began its run at the Louvre in 1945. The series takes a few liberties here for storytelling ease. While Lelong was involved, the concept came from Robert Ricci, son of designer Nina Ricci. The project, which funded war efforts, was a hit, which the episode brags about, along with listing names of designers involved. What the episode doesnt tell you is that the exhibit toured the globe and, in doing so, increased the reputation of French couture on a global scale, especially thanks to its presence in the United States. Theatre de la Mode is now part of the permanent collections at the Maryhill Museum of Art in Washington State. Before World War II, couture was integral to Frances economy and its national identity. There were dozens of couture fashion houses, but the war led a majority to close. What a Difference emphasizes creation, purpose, fate, and salvation. French couture designers, including Cristobal Balenciaga (himself Spanish but a longtime resident of Paris) and Lelong, seek to save Frances beating heart with their work. Balenciaga, in particular, is quite passionate about the project, popping off about functional buttons and zippers for his dolls clothes. Balmain, seeing an opportunity in a post-occupation Paris, seeks independence from Lelong. Coco Chanel creates a narrative to save her ass and, eventually, forges a new life for herself outside of France. Meanwhile, clouded by grief for Catherine, Christian runs away from creating, only to get pulled back to his destiny. The episode opens with Chanel in an ivory suit with the most massive poppy ever seen, celebrating Pariss liberation on a rooftop surrounded by blue skies and the similarly privileged. Chanels nephew, Andre, brings his Cambridge buddy Oscar Davies (Joshua James), who is later revealed to be working with MI6, to the celebration. Oscar is working with British intelligence to expose Chanel in an effort to protect himself from the consequences of his own collaboration with the Nazis. Also at the party is Arletty (Josephine de La Baume), a French actress known for films including Hotel du Nord (1938), who fell in love with a German during the occupation. My heart is French, but my ass is international, Arletty says, an alleged real quote. When Arletty is harassed, she seeks comfort and sanctuary with her friend Chanel. Chanel understands Arletty but is careful to expose her own parallels as shes more interested in protecting herself from Arlettys fate than anything else, especially after witnessing the public shaming of female collaborators on the streets of Paris. Arletty is arrested by the French Forces of the Interior (FFI) and similarly stripped down, her hair cut to the scalp, mirroring Catherines experience at the Ravensbruck Nazi camp. Shots from the street fire at Chanels rooftop celebration, but no one is hurt. The rich and sexy always come out on top, Chanel screams, a sentiment that reflects just as well in the modern world as it did in post-occupation Paris. Chanel arrogantly attempts to use her charm and status with the FFI. She offers a bottle of Chanel No. 5. She will love you forever. When it fails, she panics and resorts to what she does best: negging. She tells an officer in the interrogation room that a fuller figure suits him better, which gets him to remove the belt around his waist. Charm and Chanel No. 5 fail her, but Chanel weasels her way out of her arrest regardless: Back at the Ritz, her maid contacts Winston Churchill, who demands her release. Historically, Chanels connection to the British prime minister is most likely to have been her saving grace. Oscars espionage leads Chanel to journalist-MI6 agent Malcolm Muggeridge (Rupert Young), who wants to interview her in the hopes that Chanel will expose herself. Chanel did reveal some of her espionage activities in the real interview, which contains anecdotes that likely inspired events in the first three episodes of The New Look, including the trip to Madrid. Muggeridge was known for holding Charles de Gaulle in a higher regard than Churchill. By the episodes end, Chanel with Andre and grand-niece Gabrielle flees France for Switzerland. The rich and sexy Arletty also comes out on top. She was found guilty of collaboration horizontale (sleeping with the enemy) due to her affection for her lover, Hans-Jurgen Soehring, a Luftwaffe officer. Her sentence was served in a private chateau. Oscar, however, does not come out on top. Forced to incriminate Andre despite his innocence and ignorance of Chanels Nazi collaboration, he backs out of the deal and shoots himself before British intelligence can save him. Andre intervenes in the middle of Chanels interview with Muggeridge after a warning from Oscar, cutting it short just as Chanel is on the precipice of saying too much. Christian comes out on top creatively despite his distress and after several trying confrontations with Lelong, his father, and himself. Early in the episode, and at a vastly different celebration than Chanels (dark, candlelit, somber, gay), Christian witnesses Madame Delahaye (Darina Al Joundi) perform a tarot reading. He is both curious and dubious of the practice. But hes thinking about Catherine, which we know because of the ham-fisted flashbacks to Christian on the train track screaming, Catherine, which appears every few seconds when Ben Mendelsohn is onscreen. While this might come across as an insult, it cannot be overstated that I loved every second of this. Madame Delahaye confronts him when hes trying to leave and asks if he has a child. Confused and more than likely assuming if she is right, she is referring to his beloved Catherine, he leaves. A confrontation with his father, Maurice (Michael Carter), worsens Christians spirits. But he finally reveals that Catherine worked for the Resistance and is in a work camp in Germany, and is either dead or will be soon given the rumors of death marches. His father blames Christian for Catherines fate, suggesting that he doesnt care about his family, clearly ignorant of the lengths his son went to to protect Catherine. Maurice insults Christians profession, his sexuality, his manhood, his entire life. I dont understand you, Christian, his father says. Escaping into a fantasy world. Christian shrivels up in fear, unable to fully defend or explain himself to his father. This leaves Christian questioning his worth and talent, ready to give up completely. But Lelong is desperate to revive French couture and knows Christian is the key. He compares Christians grief over Catherine to a giant wave, crashing over you again and again and again, kind of like how the flashback to Christian crying out Catherines name at the train station appears again and again and again. This show is brilliant, and I love it so much. Creation perhaps cannot stop the bullet, but creation is our way forward. Our survival. Our salvation, Lelong says. As a creative myself, I relate to this sentiment: Personally, I could not survive without writing recaps of The New Look! Despite Lelongs plea, Christian decides to leave Paris and fashion, as the memory of Catherine!!! haunts him too much. On his way out, he meets his fate: a baby left outside a church, which leads him back to Madame Delahaye. Hes impressed and baffled at her ability. She tells him that Catherine is alive and that her fate lies in his hands. She will only return to him alive if he opens his heart. Christian insists that his heart is open incredible performance from Mendolshon here, as he pounds his chest and begs for assurance. My Emmy campaign continues! Madame Delahaye says Catherine will return, but only if Christian leads the way. You must create. You must find your heart. You must find your life. You must find your salvation, a dramatic repetition of Lelongs plea. Despite his fathers dismissal, Lelong is right: Christians work does mean something. It means everything. Madame Delahaye would become a close confidant and inspiration to Christian Dior for the rest of his life, which I wont get into too much yet, given that well likely see this relationship develop throughout the rest of the series. But the inspiration is alive and well in the House of Dior in the modern world. Creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri often references astrology in her collections, most notably in Le Chateau du Tarot (The Castle of the Tarots), the spring/summer 2021 haute couture collection, which was inspired by tarot cards. Next week, hopefully, well get more fashion (I admit it was a bit disappointing that there werent any scenes depicting the actual Theatre de la Mode) and more Claes Bang, given that Coco Chanel continued her relationship with Spatz in Switzerland. Photo: Gizelle Hernandez/Bravo via Getty Images Tom Sandoval has now apologized for comparing his Vaderpump Rules cheating scandal to. O.J. Simpsons case and George Floyds murder. My intentions behind the comments I made in New York Times Magazine were to explain the level of national media attention my affair received, he said in a statement. The comparison was inappropriate and ignorant. Im incredibly sorry and embarrassed. In the lengthy new profile, Sandoval was asked why he thought Scandoval became such a big deal. Im not a pop-culture historian really, he said, but I witnessed the O.J. Simpson thing and George Floyd and all these big things, which is really weird to compare this to that, I think, but do you think in a weird way its a little bit the same? Elsewhere in the piece, he mused that its kind of cool and crazy how big the show has gotten because of the scandal, even though its negative and at my expense. For cheating on Ariana Madix with Raquel Leviss, Sandoval told the Times that he felt like he got more hate than convicted rapist Danny Masterson. He recalled his friends distancing themselves, and his own brother asking him to delete their Instagram photos together. While constantly getting calls after his phone number leaked, Sandoval said he started to feel like he was the main character of Uncut Gems. He explained that the affair was because he was in an unhappy place in his life, got caught up in his emotions, and fully fell in love. Like, for real. He assumed he was going to be in a relationship with Leviss, but claims that she hasnt returned his calls since June and did not respond even when he reached out to her publicist. Still, now that hes single, he sees an opportunity for a new Bravo story line. Im not saying Im a favorite celebrity, but still just having some notoriety and being single, he said, its a cool muscle to flex. ANKARA, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police have detained 67 suspects over their alleged links to a network accused of orchestrating a coup attempt in 2016, the country's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Wednesday. The police have carried out simultaneous raids as part of an operation known as "Clamp-7" across 14 Turkish provinces, including Ankara, the minister said on social media platform X, without specifying the time of the raids. Video footage posted on the minister's X account showed police capturing suspects in apartments and buildings and putting them into vehicles. The suspects allegedly belong to the military structure of the Gulen movement, which was accused by the Turkish government of attempting a coup that killed at least 250 people on July 15, 2016. The number of suspects detained in operations against the movement since June 1, 2023 has risen to 6,045, the minister added. The Gulen movement is allegedly led by and named after Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, who was regarded by his followers as a spiritual leader. The Turkish government has launched a massive crackdown on suspects with links to the movement after the coup attempt in 2016. Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank's senior managing director, speaks during an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 60th Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan) MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Multilateralism is more important than ever in confronting a series of global challenges, a World Bank senior official said. "More international solidarity is needed, and we can only jointly solve global problems," Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank's senior managing director, said in an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 60th Munich Security Conference on Sunday. "We need the active cooperation with international players" and cannot succeed alone, he said. As the global development landscape becomes increasingly challenging, the plight of poorer countries is of particular concern to the World Bank, said van Trotsenburg. The senior official said that the global economy faces challenges due to relatively weaker economic growth compared to previous periods, adding that this particularly impacts the prospects of developing countries, especially the poorest ones, which rely on robust growth for job creation. He pointed out the need to show more international solidarity, reiterating that "multilateralism is more important than ever." He said that the World Bank has been scaling up financial support, particularly to developing countries. When discussing China's contribution to the World Bank, van Trotsenburg said China is an active and significant member and has undergone "a very interesting journey" with the World Bank. He noted that through strong development efforts and the elimination of extreme poverty, China has transitioned from being a recipient of financial support to a donor country that assists the poorest nations. In his view, China's transformation is very positive and sends an important signal to the developing world that progress can be achieved within a generation. Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank's senior managing director, speaks during an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 60th Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, Feb. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan) Embark on a journey to explore the Mystical and Historical depths of Montecristo. Since ancient times, the island of Montecristo in the Tuscan archipelago has held an almost mystical significanceeven the Romans called it Mons Jovis, or Mount Jupiter, after their highest god. (The Greeks knew it first as Artemisia.). In recent years the allure of Montecristo was significantly increased by Alexandre Dumas' captivating 19th-century novel, The Count of Monte Christo, which chronicles a man's relentless pursuit of justice and the legendary treasure concealed on the island, catapulting the mystique of Montecristo into the spotlight. Today, Montecristo is a nature reserve, left untouched by permanent residents and accessible only to a limited number of visitors each year through reservation. For the lucky few who get to see it, it is a veritable paradise. But the landscape alone does not reveal the islands storied history. Montecristos history Even as far back as the Neolithic Age, in the 6th and 5th millennium BC, Montecristo may have played host to some kind of human life, at least based on information from the Musei dellArcipelago. Archaeologists have found fragments of pottery and rock artifacts at Cala Maestra, the islands harbor. But the Etruscan and Roman history is harder to date. Remnants of 3rd century BC cargo ships were discovered in the waters near Montecristo, as were glass and marble flooring fragments, which scholars believe might have belonged to a maritime villa similar to structures found on other islands in the Tuscan archipelago. More concrete history turns up in the 5th century AD, when legend has it that Saint Mamiliano, the bishop of Palermo, fled the Vandals and ended up on Montecristo, allegedly killing a dragon (likely legend) and building a monastery and a chapel within a cave (and housing his infamous treasure). The monastery itself may even have been built on the ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter, per literary sources. The cave was clearly considered holy for centuriesarchaeologists have found votive offerings from sailors and pilgrims likely coming to glean something from Mamilianos experiences (or perhaps find the treasure). But the monastery was not destined to survive to this day. The island was a prime spot for pirates, and by 1553, the monks had abandoned their monastery, despite its legendary start. That may be why Visit Tuscany, the regions official tourism website, calls Montecristo the wildest and most solitary island in Tuscany, even if it was once inhabited to a degree. Like so much of Italy, it did eventually come into reuse, in part thanks to its remoteness. In 1878, a unified Italy established a prison on the island. But all beautiful things in Italy must be used for beauty, and so Vittorio Emanuele III made Montecristo a luxurious hunting lodge until 1971when it became a nature reserve. How to get there The good news for us is that all hope is not lost. It is possible to visit Montecristojust prepare for a years-long waiting list. 2024 slots for non-archipelago residents are already sold out. Heres how it works: you can reserve a spot on the Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscanos site, but be warned that spots fill up fast. Only 75 people are allowed to visit per day, and these can only occur between March 1st and April 15th and May 15th and October 31st. Excursions depart from Piombino Marittima to Porto Azzurro on Elba and then go to Montecristo. Visits cost 130 euro per person and include maritime transport as well as access to the area and a guide. In the end, Montecristo remains Tuscany's forbidden islandnot just a destination, but a symbol of the timeless beauty and mystery that still exists in the world's hidden corners. For those lucky enough to visit, it offers an unforgettable experience, a chance to walk in the footsteps of saints and soldiers, pirates and princes, all within the embrace of the Mediterranean's untouched splendor. 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. SARAJEVO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chairperson of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) Borjana Kristo expressed the hope on Tuesday that BiH's accession negotiations with the EU will open in March. "I am convinced that the EU, considering primarily our results but also the invested effort and achieved progress, will open negotiations for us in March," Kristo said in a meeting with members of the General Affairs Council of the EU in Brussels. The EU granted candidate status to the Balkan country in December 2022, and decided in December 2023 that it would open the accession negotiations "once the necessary degree of compliance with the membership criteria is achieved." The progress made in 2023 continued in 2024 at an accelerated pace, and the Council of Ministers of BiH has made significant strides in fulfilling 14 key priorities, Kristo said. In 2016, BiH submitted its application to join the EU, which was adopted by the European Commission in 2019 with 14 priority reforms the country has to fulfil identified. BiH's foreign and security policy is, for the first time, 100 percent aligned with that of the EU, Kristo said. Regarding legislative reform, she noted the special importance of amendments to BiH's election law, and a comprehensive reform of electoral legislation for the democracy and transparency of the election process. Once the accession negotiations are complete, the European Commission will give its opinion on whether the candidate is ready to become a member state. A Perth couple has been accused of repeatedly entering hospitals and stealing from patients, visitors and staff. The Woodbridge man and woman, aged 43 and 48, have been charged with 83 offences including an allegation they stole the purse and jewellery of an elderly patient at Royal Perth Hospital in January, while she was being cared for on a ward. As time drags on in the ED, enemies becomes friends, friends become family, and everyone silently prays they will be called up next. Credit: Stock A WA Police spokeswoman said the pair went on to use the 82-year-olds debit card for 81 transactions. Nearly three weeks later, they are also accused of entering a restricted room at a Nedlands hospital, only accessible by swipe card, and stealing a staff members bag. The federal government has accused the Coalition of trying to whip up fear by suggesting that terrorists or terrorist sympathisers from Palestine may be receiving fast-tracked visas to enter Australia. As the opposition attacks the government over border protection after around 40 asylum seekers arrived by boat in Western Australia, it has also argued that the government is not applying sufficiently tough security checks for visa applicants from the occupied Palestinian territories. Coalition home affairs spokesman James Paterson. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Department of Home Affairs officials said during Senate estimates hearings that they had approved more than 2000 visas to Palestinian residents since the beginning of Israels war with Hamas. Officials said the median processing time for visitor visas, across all countries, was a day. The White House says it is seeking more information about the reported arrest in Russia of a ballerina who is a dual Russia-US citizen after she allegedly gave $US50 to an organisation raising money for the Ukrainian military. The Federal Security Service, Russias main domestic intelligence agency, reported the arrest of a 33-year-old who lives in Los Angeles on charges of treason. Independent news outlet Mediazona identified the woman as Ksenia Karelina and said that she had received US citizenship after marrying an American. Ksenia Karelina has dual US-Russian citizenship. Credit: Facebook Perviy Otdel, a group of lawyers and human rights activists who specialise in the legal defence of people accused of treason or espionage in Russia, told the New York Times Karelina was accused of sending just over $US50 ($76) to a New York-based not-for-profit organisation, Razom, that sends assistance to Ukraine. Karelina, who had been in Russia visiting family, is accused by the FSB of raising funds used to purchase tactical medical items, equipment, means of destruction and ammunition. LONDON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of junior doctors in Wales began a three-day strike on Wednesday over continued pay disputes, the second walkout since January, the British Medical Association (BMA) announced. "No doctor wants to strike but years of undervaluing our lifesaving service have led us here. Junior doctors in Wales have experienced a pay cut of 29.6 percent in real terms over the last 15 years," Oba Babs-Osibodu and Peter Fahey, co-chairs of BMA Cymru Wales' junior doctors committee, said in a press release. "It is no surprise that we are losing doctors as they search for better pay and conditions elsewhere. Losing our doctors at a time when waiting lists are at record highs will mean patients suffering more than they are already," they added. Despite the government's commitment to full pay restoration to 2008 levels, its first and final offer for junior doctors was an uplift of 5 percent, the worst pay offer for junior doctors in the United Kingdom (UK), according to the BMA. About 4,000 junior doctors with up to 11 years of experience out of medical school work in Wales, making up 40 percent of its total medical workforce. "As always, it is patients who bear the greatest burden from industrial action, with around 41 percent of outpatient appointments and 61 percent of operations postponed across Wales in the last wave of industrial action by junior doctors in January," Director of the Welsh NHS Confederation Darren Hughes said in a statement. "The impact of strike action is not just felt on the days of industrial action, but also following industrial action when the service does its best to catch up on postponed patient appointments and cancellations," Hughes added. Amid long-time pay disputes, a new round of junior doctor strike in England is also scheduled to take place from Feb. 24. Representatives vote on a draft resolution during a UN Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on Feb. 20, 2024. The United States on Tuesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. The draft resolution won 13 votes in favor among the 15 members of the Security Council. The United States voted against it. Britain abstained. (Manuel Elias/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- The United States on Tuesday vetoed a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. The draft resolution won 13 votes in favor among the 15 members of the Security Council. The United States voted against it. Britain abstained. To be adopted, a Security Council draft resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no veto from any of the council's five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States. The Algerian-drafted resolution would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and would have deplored all attacks against civilians. The draft would have rejected forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian population and would have demanded unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. The draft also would have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. Before the vote on the draft resolution, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said the Algerian draft would jeopardize ongoing efforts toward a hostage deal. She said her delegation was working on a rival draft resolution that would call for a "temporary cease-fire" based on the formula that all hostages are released. Russia's permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said before the vote that Washington continues to give Israel "a license to kill." He asked Security Council members "to counter the lawlessness of Washington." Speaking after the vote, Nebenzia said full responsibility for the consequences of Tuesday's outcome falls on Washington, no matter how hard the United States tries to evade it by talking about its "important mediation efforts." In an explanation of vote after the voting, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Zhang Jun, expressed his country's strong disappointment at and dissatisfaction with the outcome of the vote. "The U.S. veto sent a wrong message, pushing the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one," he said. The U.S. claim that the Algerian-drafted resolution would interfere in ongoing diplomatic efforts is totally untenable, said Zhang. The Security Council must take action to push for a cease-fire, which is its legal responsibility. The U.S. veto cannot muffle the strong call for a cease-fire and an end to the war in Gaza. The Security Council cannot stop its work to uphold justice and fulfill its responsibilities just because of the veto, he said. French UN ambassador Nicholas de Riviere regretted that the draft resolution was not adopted given the disastrous situation on the ground. "There is an extreme urgency to conclude, without further delay, an agreement on a cease-fire, which finally guarantees the protection of all civilians and the massive delivery of emergency aid," he said. "The human toll and humanitarian situation in Gaza are intolerable and Israeli operations must stop." The Algerian text was the eighth Gaza-related draft resolution that the Security Council has voted on since Oct. 7, 2023. Only two draft resolutions have been adopted, neither of which calls for a cease-fire. Zhang Jun (C, Front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, votes in favor of a Security Council draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, at the UN headquarters in New York, on Feb. 20, 2024. Following the U.S. veto on a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, the Chinese envoy said Tuesday that objection to a cease-fire in Gaza is nothing different from giving the green light to the continued slaughter. (Xinhua/Xie E) Zhang Jun (C, Front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks in an explanation of vote after voting for a Security Council draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, at the UN headquarters in New York, on Feb. 20, 2024. Following the U.S. veto on a Security Council draft resolution that would have demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, the Chinese envoy said Tuesday that objection to a cease-fire in Gaza is nothing different from giving the green light to the continued slaughter. (Xinhua/Xie E) LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- NASA and Boeing are targeting mid-April to launch a crewed flight test mission to the International Space Station, NASA said on Wednesday. The mission will be the first crewed launch of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Starliner will launch atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The spacecraft will carry NASA astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Suni Williams to the orbiting laboratory for a stay of about one to two weeks. Banner county Good morning and welcome to the last day of February, seems impossible! We do have one extra day this year, so there is that. Congratulations to Banner County wrestler Wyatt Reichenberg for his 2nd place win at state! Does not appear to be much going on at the schoolhouse this week. However, tomorrow, February 23rd, will be a regular day of school with no sports, just to give everyone a breather. The Gering Library will host Board Game Night that evening at 6 p.m., and the Midwest Theater will begin a three day showing of the movie "The Color Purple." It will play twice on the 23rd, at 1:30 and 7 p.m., and on the 24th at 7 p.m, with the final showing on the 25th at 1:30 p.m. The Winter Farmers Market will continue at the Legacy of the Plains Museum this Saturday the 24th between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m .; Also that day, the speech students will be in MAC competition at South Platte, the Lied Library in Scottsbluff will host Nebraska author Tammy Marshall at 2 p.m., and the annual Duck's Unlimited Banquet will be held at the Weborg 21 Centre. The doors will open at 5:00 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m. There will be games, raffles, and silent and live auctions. On Monday the 26th, the folks in Kimball will hold a ribbon cutting for the new Kimball Health Services Hospital. This is at 255 W 4th St. at 2 p.m. I know more than one person who was born in the old hospital, speaking from experience! Tuesday at Mitchell there will be a Bunny Butts Sip & Paint at 1450 Center Avenue at 6 p.m. Rounding out the week, on the 28th Robert Zemanek of Gering will present a program at the Gering Library titled "What's In A Picture?" He is president of the Albany County, Wyoming, Genealogical Society and will begin at 6:30 p.m. You are invited to bring an old photo for discussion and discovery if you would like. Well folks, February is a short month and we are ending it rather shortly. One more day next and then we will march into March. What do you think? A lamb? Or a lion? That's all for now. Take care, safe travels until next week. Barb Cross at 436-7152. Lots Of Speculation & Searching, But No Answers In 'Shorty' Wilson Disappearance Bobby "Shorty" Wilson disappeared without a trace from the streets of Kimball on October 30, 1956, and the family struggled with his disappearance and searched for years for clues or his remains. In 1958, the family had a marker erected in the Kimball Cemetery that read: Robert G. "Shorty" Wilson. His birth date was May 28, 1925, and he was born in Kimball, Nebraska. The simple headstone says, "Disappeared on October 30, 1956." A description of Shorty Wilson was provided in a reward posted in 1957: "Age 31 years; height 4'8", weight 200 lbs., blue eyes, address: Kimball, Nebraska. This person has been missing since October 30, 1956. He is a dwarf person. He should have in his possession Nebraska Drivers License J71-767." The mystery of the disappearance of Bobby Wilson has always been a subject of talk and rumors in Kimball and the story was revisited in 1976, 20 years after his disappearance, by Western Nebraska Observer owner Bob Pinkerton. Pinkerton interviewed Dick Wilson at length, and Wilson shared many of his thoughts about what happened to his twin. Then the story creeps into the local news again in 1993, when Sheriff John Thacker brought in a non-profit search organization from Colorado in an attempt to locate the body of Shorty. The Wilsons were a Kimball family. According to the history book, the Wilson brothers, Dick, Bill and Don returned to the Kimball area after serving in World War II and purchased dump trucks and trucks with grain boxes. They hauled everything from corn, cattle and poles and 11,000 dead sheep to Denver after the blizzard of 1949. The Wilson brothers started a Ready Mix plant in 1953 and purchased another concrete plant in Wheatland, Wyoming. They got the contract for pouring concrete irrigation ditches, then poured the concrete for the Atlas Missile site south of Kimball. They prospered and were solid community members involved in many aspects of Kimball. After retiring from the Wheatland Ready Mix Plant, Don Wilson moved to Buffalo, Wyoming. He ran a rock shop on the edge of Buffalo, and occasionally he would talk about the disappearance of his brother with people from the Kimball area. Shorty wasn't involved in the Ready Mix plant or the trucking business, but he had a number of jobs in Kimball, such as selling cars at Dalton Buick Co., collecting accounts for Jim Dalton, and driving part-time for James Cab Service. Pinkerton's story reported that "He (Shorty) was dwarfed, probably by an early childhood disease." The information continued to explain that Bob was a normal baby, but what was attributed to rickets attacked the infant, and he developed abnormally after that. His arms and legs, especially the upper joints, were extremely short, although his head and torso were normal. He grew up to be about 4'8" or 4'9". When Robert Shorty Wilson went missing at about 3 p.m. October 30, 1956, from a service station known as Ray's Sinclair Service (315 3rd St.), law enforcement did not appear to investigate the incident immediately. Still, the family was genuinely concerned about the missing man. He didn't show up for his 6 p.m. regular cab driving shift. His brother Dick remembered that he was last seen at Plains Body Shop, so discrepancies emerged immediately. In Pinkerton's interview, the Wilsons were described as a close-knit family. Dick Wilson said, "That is what made it so hard. Dick remembers, "Bob was staying with Mother, helping her along." Their father had died the previous year. Mrs. Wilson died about 10 years later with no knowledge of what happened to Bob. Pinkerton's frank conversation with Dick Wilson about his brother is revealing. Dick said while collecting past due bills for Jim Dalton, "Dick remembered an $8,000 plus check that bounced on the Bushnell bank. Bob had been "shook up" about the dirty deal his boss was getting. He may have been trying to collect that, Dick doesn't know." Dick also said that Bob was a "feisty individual, and in more than one altercation, he proved an equal to those taller than himself." Dick said, "Yes, Bob had a temper." Dick settled on an idea about what he thought happened; he felt that Bob got in a fight over a Dalton bill and was hurt enough that his attacker "got scared to let him live." Bob had two big brothers Dick, 6-4 and 250 pounds, and Bill, 6-6 and 300 pounds, and they would be there to protect their brother. According to the Pinkerton interview, Dick said that Bob had no enemies, but authorities were not in agreement with that theory. "They hinted at Bob's involvement in various things, but there was nothing concrete mentioned. Another rumor circulated at the time linked Bob, a bachelor, with certain women around town." Dick discounted that as a motive for the disappearance or murder. Two clues were found in the car Shorty had been driving: blood spots on the seat of the car, and a small rope in the trunk. His jacket and checks, which he had collected, were found in the car. The car was parked at Dalton Buick Co., and Mrs. Dalton drove the Buick for three weeks before the authorities scoured it for clues. Bob's bank account was untouched, no car was missing, none of his tailor-made clothes were taken, and bus depots were checked for any sign of him purchasing a ticket. Dick Wilson said, "I knew that he never just left town ... they never could convince me that he just up and left." The family dealt with many possible sightings that were chased down, reports of people who witnessed the event, and letters claiming to have information. Some information turned out to be scams, people just trying to get the reward money. In the hopes of finally finding the body of Shorty Wilson, Sheriff John Thacker conducted an in-depth investigations and then found NecroSearch International, LTD, an organization out of Colorado dedicated to research and assistance with locating clandestine graves and offering services at no cost locally. Initially, a bloodhound with the NecroSearch team sniffed a basement area of a house on Washington Street in Kimball. For years, it had been rumored that Wilson was buried in the basement and concrete poured over his grave. The bloodhound did not hit on the area, and no additional search was conducted in the basement. The dog eventually found a scent of human remains at an old well site, which was also rumored to be a place where the body was hidden. By November 1993, NecroSearch began digging up an old abandoned isolated well site southeast of Bushnell between Interstate 80 and Highway 30. A local investigation, a witness, and the bloodhound pointed to the 1950s well site. The NecroSearch volunteer team consisted of a geophysicist, geologist, computer programmer, forensic physical anthropologist, an archaeologist, a criminalist, an archaeologists, a forensic scientist, and a specialist in infrared imaging and ground penetrating radar. On a cold and blustery weekend in November, the team carefully scraped away the dirt covering, the rat hole, the mouse hole and the plugged well-head, but after hours of further digging and using ground penetrating radar and infrared machinery it was determined that no body existed in either the rat house or mouse hole. The hit from the dog was assumed to be human latrine waste. Thacker and the family were disappointed in the lack of discovery of human remains. A botched investigation, a huge snowstorm and blizzard and the availability of dozens of possible burial sites made solving the disappearance of Robert Wilson impossible in 1956. The three surviving Wilson brothers made a gallant effort to try to uncover the mystery behind the loss of their brother. Chances are all the major players in the Shorty Wilson disappearance case have gone to greener pastures and taken their secrets with them. Warner Breaks Down KCTS Stats For 2023 Kimball County Transit Service Administrator Christy Warner informed the Kimball County Commissioners at their Tuesday meeting that Gov. Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Transportation Director Vicki Kramer will visit the transit service Feb. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Statistics for KCTS also were presented by Warner. Of 33,943 rides for the calendar year 2023, 61% were from Kimball County. Other numbers showed that 8,843 rides were educational and preschool, school or college; 3,690 rides were for employment; 2,086 were deliveries for meals; 2,085 were for shopping trips with 2,015 of them locally; and 1,964 rides were for wellness with 1,307 to local providers. Warner explained that all routed services have been temporarily suspended as of Jan. 18 due to cost savings. It was further stated that people must share rides and go at the designated time, but Warner said the buses cannot drive empty. A plus for the transit is that Clean Harbors ridership has increased with a new training group starting each Monday. The revenue for the fiscal year to Jan. 31 was $1,599,384. This amount was brought back into the county by KCTS by way of federal tax dollars totalling $1,057,290. State tax dollars brought back to Kimball for the fiscal year are $280,967. Advertisement receipts received were $124,665. These advertisements are on billboards and vehicles and are used as matching funds for grants. Fares from insurance totaled $45,897, and these fares are also used as matching funds grant. KCTS has paid the Kimball County general fund $124,376 for the fiscal year. Other county officials updated the board on the highlights of their departments. Newly hired Buildings and Grounds employee Pam Giorgis updated the commissioners on plumbing problems at the courthouse, including running toilets and leaky faucets. Giorgis also asked for cell phones for the buildings and grounds people. It was determined that the KCTS has tablets available, and those will be provided to the two new buildings and ground employees. Although the commissioners put out a bid for quotes on snow removal and lawn care, it was decided that the two buildings and grounds employees would be responsible for snow removal and lawn care. Repairs on the sprinkler system are contracted out. Sheriff Dave Hottell presented a quote for a keycard system to be installed on the Buildings and Grounds door as a measure of security. The quote was accepted and approved. Hottell also explained that repairs are needed in the jail. Kimball County Highway Superintendent Randy Bymers report focused on the upcoming One and Six Road Improvement Plan. The public hearing for the plan was set for March 19 at 9:30 a.m. Finally, Natasha McFaul, interim Kimball County Transit director, reported that the visitors center had a record number of individuals stopping in for November, December and January. She said February looks to be another record month with 326 visitor so far. The budget for the visitors center is on track with only 39% of their budget used so far. In action items, the commissioners approved Dave Reader as an alternate representative for the Aging Office of Western Nebraska Advisory Council. He will serve a two-year term. The next county commissioner meeting is 9 a.m. March 5. Malin Head Coast Guard Coordination Centre, in conjunction with colleagues in the UK Coastguard and the Norwegian Coast Guard, today coordinated the medical evacuation of a seriously ill casualty from a Norwegian fishing vessel 160 miles west of Erris Head, Co Mayo. The evacuation was conducted by Dublin-based Coast Guard Helicopter R116. The Shannon-based Coast Guard Helicopter R115 was tasked as a secondary support asset and shadowed R116 during the mission. The casualty was winched onboard R116 at 12.50pm and was transported to University Hospital Galway where they were transferred into the care of the HSE. Members of Mayo County Council stood for a minute's silence at their monthly meeting last week in memory of former Taoiseacch John Bruton. Ballinrobe-based Cllr Michael Burke asked for a book of condolence to be opened for the former Fine Gael leader, who served as Taoiseach from 1994 until 1997. Cllr Burke stated Mr Bruton was a highly influential political figure who had huge connections with Mayo through his wife Finola (nee Gill), a native of Westport. He visited this county on many occasions, including the races in Ballinrobe," said Cllr Burke. "His uncle was married to a lady from Ballinrobe and his commitment to Mayo was very big." Cllr Burke described Mr Bruton as a statesman who made a significant positive impact on Irish society. John was very much his own man and a man full of ideas. He respected everybody he met and everyone mattered to him, he added. 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. WARSAW, Poland (AP) Ukraine's president on Wednesday invited Polish leaders to meet him at their shared border to resolve a blockade by Polish farmers protesting Ukrainian food imports, saying it's hampering the shipment of weapons to Ukrainian soldiers. Meanwhile, Polish authorities voiced concern after slogans appeared at the protests praising Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on social media he hoped the proposed border meeting for him, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and a European Union representative could happen before the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on Saturday. "This is national security," Zelenskyy said. I am ready to be at the border with our government. There was no immediate reaction from the Polish government. Poland, a member of NATO and the European Union, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, accepting unlimited numbers of refugees and providing Ukraine with weaponry. Poles, with past oppression by Moscow rooted deeply in generational memory, are largely supportive of Ukraine. But tensions have been growing as Polish farmers blame imports of Ukrainian grain and other food for pushing down prices and harming their livelihoods. Polish farmers are among farmers across Europe who have protesting competition from Ukraine as well as EU environmental policies, which they say will increase their production costs. Earlier Wednesday, Polands Foreign Ministry said it believed that extreme groups were trying to take over the protest movement perhaps under the influence of Russian agents. It noted with the greatest concern the appearance of anti-Ukrainian slogans and slogans praising Vladimir Putin and the war he is waging. On Tuesday, a tractor at a protest in the southern Polish region of Silesia carried a Soviet flag and a banner that said: "Putin, put things in order with Ukraine, Brussels, and our rulers. A photograph was published by the Gazeta Wyborcza daily. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski called the banner scandalous and said it was immediately secured by police, and prosecutors were investigating. There will be no consent to such criminal activities," he said. The public promotion of a totalitarian system can be punished with up to three years in prison under Polish law. The Foreign Ministry called on protest organizers to identify and eliminate from their movement the initiators, arguing it was necessary for Poland's interest. The current situation of Polish farmers is the result of Vladimir Putins aggression against Ukraine and the disruption of the global economy, not because Ukrainians are defending themselves against the aggression, the ministry said. On Tuesday some protesting farmers at the border spilled Ukrainian grain. Zelenskky called it "grain that our farmers grow with great difficulty despite all the difficulties associated with ruthless Russian aggression." ROCKLAND TWP., Pa. - Fire broke out at a Berks County home early Wednesday morning. It was reported around 4:20 a.m. on Essig Drive in Rockland Township, not far from Fleetwood. Initial emergency reports indicated the home was fully engulfed in flames. Multiple neighboring fire companies assisted Lyons Fire Co. at the scene. Fire officials say the roof and interior floors collapsed into the home's basement before the fire was brought under control. Damage to the home is estimated to be at least $300,000. One woman was displaced and is being assisted by the Red Cross. The fire is under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police Troop L fire marshal. Although the cause still remains undetermined, officials say it is related to the improper use of a propane space heater. MT. PENN BOROUGH, Pa. Mount Penn Borough Council met again Tuesday night after a special meeting was held Monday night following a mediation with local state lawmakers, Antietam School District and the borough regarding a traffic study that would be done ahead of renovations to the Mount Penn Primary Center. The Antietam Middle Senior High School had been damaged by flooding over the summer, and the district is looking to renovate the Mount Penn Primary Center to make it the high school for next year. "We sat down, we talked, we worked things out," Mike Roberts, president of the Antietam school board, said Tuesday night, echoing officials at Monday morning's meeting, who said they are working collaboratively. "I am solely on board with getting these kids in school," a school district parent said during public comment. Tuesday night, council approved the appointment of a transportation engineer for the borough for work related to the "professional development and review of a traffic impact study by the Antietam School District." "It wasn't borough council that mandated the traffic study," said Thomas Klonis, solicitor. "That was a mandate issued by the (borough) zoning hearing board, and borough council is obligated to follow what they decide." Also on the agenda was for borough council to consider a draft letter to support the Antietam School District's special exception and variance application for the Mount Penn Primary Center. However, that letter was tabled. The borough manager said there will be conversations between attorneys and staff at the Feb. 27 meeting about this. The school district had previously submitted a special exception application to the borough, seeking approval to use the Primary Center as a high school. The Primary Center has not been a high school since 1989. Borough council also had voted to do a trial run of livestreaming borough business meetings. READING, Pa. - Inside the Reading Public Museum, visitors can take a walk through history in a new temporary photo exhibition. "This is Danny Lyon: Memories of the Southern Civil Rights Movement," said Hannah Wagner, curatorial research assistant and registrar at the Reading Public Museum. Lyon was the first staff photographer for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC,) a national group of college students who joined together and protested during the 1960s. "Lyon traveled throughout the southern United States, photographing important people and events during the Civil Rights movement," said Wagner. "He was present at the March on Washington. He was with SNCC members in the wake of the JFK assassination. He was in various southern cities, as there were peaceful demonstrations and not so peaceful demonstrations, unfortunately." Organizers said everyone is welcome to come check out the photographs until May 12th. Wagner showed us the photos displayed throughout the exhibit. "So, this grouping of three photographs shows a group of teenagers who were arrested in Americus, Georgia for protesting," explained Wagner. Organizers say the museum is open daily and the exhibition is included with a museum admission. "It's the United States history, so it's very important. And I think that everybody in our community should see these photographs," added Wagner. READING, Pa. Reading City Council discussed a proposed ordinance at its Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday that would allocate $65,320 from American Rescue Plan Act funds to the College Manor Swimming Association. Members of the association approached council last month requesting funds for needed infrastructure repairs for the 65-year-old College Manor Pool at 1625 Rockland St. Councilmembers Jaime Baez Jr. and Melissa Ventura said they had concerns that the money was being taken from ARPA funds when Finance Director and Deputy Managing Director Jamar Kelly had previously said the pool could be funded with leftover funds from $750,000 that had been allocated to fund a project at the Schlegel Park Pool pump house. Kelly explained that the $750,000 allocation was from capital funds and that capital funds can only be used for city projects. The College Manor Pool is privately owned, while the Schlegel Park Pool is city property. City Managing Director William Heim asked the board to not make the allocation a difficult decision. "If we award funding for College Manor from ARPA, it is a relatively low amount," Heim said. "It's not going to endanger any other project that we have. And any overages from Schlegel pool will go back in the capital improvement fund that will be used for other city projects." "So I think we're getting in the weeds here where we really don't have to," Heim added. Ventura questioned the fact that the association is a nonprofit organization. College Manor Pool requests funding from Reading The 65-year-old neighborhood pool experienced financial difficulties during the pandemic and needs infrastructure repairs, the president of the pool's board said. "It's just concerning for me that they're considered a nonprofit, and they stated that they were they were struggling since 2020," Ventura said. "And as a nonprofit, I don't believe that they should have been solely relying on the membership fees. They should have been searching for grants in order to sustain." Baez said he had concerns that the College Manor Pool is private. "Although they have, of course, let us know that they have opened it (memberships) to the public, it's not for the public," Baez said. "It is a private pool, and I think that that's the main thing that concerns me because we are responsible for the finance of the city, and the fact that we are providing funds to what I would call a private entity, when it's not being used for the public, it is just a little bothersome." However, Baez added that he also believes it would not be good for the city to have that pool shut down. City officials noted that even though Schlegel Park Pool is a public pool, it still requires either a paid membership or a daily entrance fee. Baez said he does not like the idea of membership fees for a public pool. "I believe these fees keeps it to a certain class of people who can afford it, and it almost seems like the rules are made for a reason," Baez said. The question was then raised as to why the city does not have more than one public pool. Councilmember Vanessa Campos said council should consider additional pools. "It's just concerning to me with the population of the city, to just have one pool for all the youth and the families for recreation and the opportunity of coming together," Campos said. "I mean, the list is long of reasons why not (to have more pools)." "I'm looking at the possibility and how to continue to improve the quality of life," she continued. "I don't think quality of life, even though I am conscious of the expense, should have a price to it." "I think we need to look at the need in our city and our community, and let the residents and families decide what would they like to see," Campos added. Council President Donna Reed said she believes a conservative figure for a new pool would be about $5 million. "I mean, we want to be morally supportive of our populace, but we also have to be fiscally careful with our monies," Reed said. Reed added that if council wants to revisit reviving the Hillside or the East Reading pools, it should make the request of the administration to begin looking at those costs prior to the start of the 2025 budget process, which begins in June. Council will vote on the ARPA funds for the College Manor Pool on Monday. ALLENTOWN, Pa. - Police in Allentown are investigating the second shooting in less than a week. It happened Tuesday around 7 p.m. in the area of West Turner and North 19th streets. Allentown police say four people were shot. They showed up at the hospital for treatment, but their conditions are not known, police said. Muhlenberg College police report that students were told to shelter-in-place for a brief time, and campus police increased patrols. The shooting happened a few blocks away from campus. Police detained a man after the shooting, placing him in the back of a cruiser. Police said Wednesday morning that there is no threat to the public. Multiple police officers had focused their attention on a home in the area. At one point, they appeared in a defensive mode, shields in hand. "We got a phone call that there were multiple gunshot victims here," said Jeani Garcia, the director of operations for Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley. Garcia says her team came to support any affected neighbors or families. "It's sad, this affects the entire community when something like this happens," Garcia said. A number of teens and adults spoke with officers, and we saw two small children who appeared visibly upset sitting in the back of a police car. L. MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. - If you want to learn Italian, La Dolce Vita bakery in Lower Macungie is a good place to start. Owner Riccardo Alaimo says baking is his passion. Alaimo learned to bake in Palermo, Sicily. "When I was 11 with my uncle Sal," said Alaimo. "I learned a lot from him." Sal passed away. Now, Alaimo is passing what he learned on to his apprentice. "Mateo is a good kid," said Alaimo. That lesson starts with fresh ingredients and time-tested Italian recipes that are more than just pastries. "Whatever you create out of your hand is an art," said Alaimo. Apprentice Matteo Saldino agrees. "I've really learned to love the art of baking and making things with your hand," said Saldino. In between the mixing, the kneading, and the baking, Saldino says he's learned the importance of honoring the past. "Coming from an Italian family I think tradition is one of the most important qualities to have," said Saldino. And when those traditions are put out for customers, Alaimo and Saldino know their work is Molto Delizioso. "They're gonna take a bite out of, and they're gonna get a big smile on their face," said Saldino. "And you know you're sitting back there and you know you made that for them." Chinese C919 passenger plane debuts Singapore Airshow Xinhua) 08:14, February 21, 2024 A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) SINGAPORE, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. Two Chinese air-service companies, the Tibet Airlines and Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group, signed orders for 40 units of C919 and 16 units of ARJ21 aircraft at the airshow. The COMAC noted that they will carry out promotion activities at the airshow to enhance networks with clients and partners. Aerobatic teams from India, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, and an Airbus A350-1000 also contributed performances at the airshow. Singapore Air Force sent its F-15 fighter jet and Apache attack helicopter to perform aerobatics at the event. The airshow, attended by over 1,000 participating companies, is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. The Singapore Airshow has set up a country pavilion for 40 Chinese aerospace enterprises for the first time, according to the organizer. The Aerospace Times Feipeng Company from east China's Jiangsu Province brings their cargo delivery unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to the Singapore Airshow. "It is the first time for us to attend an airshow abroad. We hope to create more connections with overseas clients and provide them with new cargo delivery solutions featuring low cost and high efficiency," said Liu Zefeng, general manager of the UAV company. The airshow will last till Sunday. A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows an interior view of a Chinese passenger jet C919 at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 performs at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows an interior view of a Chinese passenger jet C919 at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A Chinese passenger jet C919 is displayed at the Singapore Airshow in Singapore, Feb. 20, 2024. Chinese passenger jet C919 debuted in a flight demonstration at the Singapore Airshow, which kicked off on Tuesday. Two C919 narrow-body aircraft and three ARJ21 jetliners developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) attended the airshow. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Helicopters of aerobatic team Sarang of Indian Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Aircrafts of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An Embraer E195-E2 passenger aircraft sits on the tarmac as part of the static display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Helicopters of aerobatic team Sarang of Indian Air Force perform during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on Feb. 20, 2024 shows a scene during aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A visitor views the exhibits on display at the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An Airbus A350 passenger aircraft flies during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) A F-15SG fighter aircraft of Republic of Singapore Air Force performs during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) An aircraft of aerobatic team Black Eagles of South Korea Air Force performs during the aerial display of the Singapore Airshow held in Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre on Feb. 20, 2024. The airshow kicked off on Tuesday and will last until Feb. 25. It is attended by over 1,000 participating companies and is expected to attract 50,000 trade attendees from over 50 countries and regions. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) By Azernews Fatime Letifova On February 17, President Ilham Aliyev held a joint meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister of the Armenia Republic Nikol Pashinyan at the initiative of the German Chancellor. During the meeting, they exchanged views on bilateral relations. After the meeting, the Armenian PM met with representatives of the Armenian community in Munich. Within the framework of the meeting, Pashinyan told Armenian community representatives about the conference and the "difficulties" facing Armenia. Pashinyan noted that Garabagh's right to self-determination is not supported by the international community, which is why Armenia waged this conflict not only against Azerbaijan but against the whole world. Shahla Jalilzade, research fellow International Relations Specialist commenting on the subject for Azernews, said that Azerbaijans victory in Garabagh is difficult to accept for the Armenian community. She added that Pashinyan is trying to inform them that there is no other way. It seems that it is too difficult for the Armenian community to understand and accept Azerbaijan's victory in Garabagh, and Pashinyan trying to explain to them that there is no other way, Expert drew attention to the so-called Artsakh Republic, an unrecognized or de facto state, that Armenia tried to create in Azerbaijan's territories. She said Pashinyan himself reminded that no country in the world had supported the independence of the so-called regime when he declared that there was no international community support in Garabagh. When Nikol Pashinyan declares that "Garabaghs right of self-determination" is not supported by the international community, he means that no country in the world has supported the "independence" of the so-called regime so far and will not support it in the future, Shahla Jalilzade reminded that several states have called on the countries of the world to recognize this regime. But she added none of them had taken any steps in this direction because everyone knew that this would be against international law. We know that the French Parliament called on the government to recognize the so-called "Republic of Artsakh". However, governments have never dared to take a real step in this direction, because it would mean a clear violation of international law, The expert also reminded that one of the questions addressed to Nikol Pashinyan about his resignation. She said the Armenian diaspora sees the Prime Minister as the cause of Garabagh. At the meeting with the Armenian community within the conference one of the questions addressed to Pashinyan was: "You have lost Karabakh too, when will you leave power?" It means that the global Armenian network considers Pashinyan and his political line as the cause of the loss of Garabagh, and draws strategic plans and projects to restore the so-called regime, but in the background of all this, Pashinyan, who is a pragmatic politician, dictates the realities to them, Shahla Jalilzade added that the Armenian Prime Minister trying to implement President Ilham Aliyevs thoughts on the normalization process between 2 countries. Pashinyan implements the formula that Ilham Aliyev announced in his swearing-in speech - the normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations should be out of the agenda, She noted that Azerbaijan and Armenian work on peace agreement suggests new regional projects in upcoming years. The emphasis placed on continuing the work on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty at the tripartite meeting held within the framework of the conference suggests that new regional projects and global initiatives will be on the agenda in the upcoming period, Expert touched on the COP29 which will be held in Baku. She added that if the relations normalize, Pashinyan also participate in the event, because the Armenian President participated in COP28. As we all know COP-29 will be held in Baku. Armenia's agreement to it, Ilham Aliyev's meeting with the US President's special representative in Munich and inviting him to the event in Baku, create speculation that if relations normalize, maybe Pashinyan also will participate in COP-29 in Baku. I reminded that the President of Armenia participated in COP-28, Shahla Jalilzade also stated that in terms of regional communications, this year would be decisive. She added that opinions expressed at the Munich conference were the real proof of international support for Azerbaijan. We can say that 2024 will be decisive in terms of regional communications and demarcation of borders because this is also necessary for the world powers. The meetings and opinions expressed at the Munich conference were an expression of global support for Azerbaijan's superior position in all these directions, Shahla Jalilzade said. Looking only at yield stats can quickly lead you astray as an investor. But Enterprise Products Partners' (NYSE: EPD) 7.3% distribution yield will likely be a much better option for most investors when compared to Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE: PXD) and its 6% yield. The important thing is that the yield isn't the reason why. Enterprise: A steady performer with a simple story There's nothing magical about Enterprise Products Partners. It's a very (very!) boring business. The master limited partnership (MLP) owns midstream assets in the energy sector, like pipelines, storage, processing, and transportation infrastructure. These are large and expensive facilities that are vital to the global flow of energy. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to replicate or replace the assets that Enterprise owns in North America. The key here is that Enterprise is a service provider to the energy industry. Lots of companies make use of its assets and pay fees to the company for that privilege. Energy demand is more important than the price of the commodities flowing through the system. Energy demand tends to remain strong, even when energy prices are low. Thus, Enterprise creates fairly consistent cash flow over time from which it pays its lofty distribution. This isn't a growth story -- it's a yield story, with the yield likely making up the lion's share of returns over time. For income-focused investors, that shouldn't be a big problem. The exciting part is that the distribution has been increased annually for 25 consecutive years. It also happens to be backed by an investment-grade rated balance sheet with distributable cash flow covering the distribution by a very healthy 1.7 times in 2023. Enterprise is the kind of ultra-high-yield stock you can sleep well at night owning. That's why it's a better choice than Pioneer Energy. Pioneer has too many moving parts There are two big problems with Pioneer as a dividend stock. The first is the company's variable dividend policy. Story continues While tying the dividend to the company's financial performance is a great way to ensure that investors get rewarded during periods of high energy prices, it inherently requires those same investors to feel the sting of falling energy prices via subsequent dividend cuts. But in the end, the dividend yield isn't a figure you can count on because the dividend will change. Problem two is a bit more complex. Pioneer has agreed to be bought by ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM). That means it may not be a public company much longer. But the government has been taking an increasingly stringent look at mergers and acquisitions of late. Given Exxon's massive size, it seems likely that this deal will attract material scrutiny. If it falls through, there's a real chance that Pioneer's stock price would react negatively. In other words, there are inherent risks involved with the dividend policy for income investors. And there's an added risk when you consider the company's proposed acquisition by Exxon. If you're trying to create an income portfolio that generates cash that you can use for living expenses, the story here is too complex to bother with. Now's a decent time to buy Enterprise While Enterprise's distribution yield has been higher in the past, it's currently toward the high side of its historical yield range. That suggests that the MLP is attractively valued today and might be worth adding to your portfolio. Whatever you decide with Enterprise, make sure you tread carefully with Pioneer. The high yield isn't as attractive as it may seem, and any problems with the Exxon deal could lead to a bad outcome for Pioneer shareholders. Should you invest $1,000 in Pioneer Natural Resources right now? Before you buy stock in Pioneer Natural Resources, 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 Pioneer Natural Resources 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 20, 2024 Reuben Brewer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Enterprise Products Partners and Pioneer Natural Resources. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 1 Ultra-High-Yield Energy Stock to Buy Hand Over Fist and 1 to Avoid was originally published by The Motley Fool BETHLEHEM, Pa. Bethlehem City Council on Tuesday finalized two measures for future development at the Walnut Street Garage. But before that vote, members got excited about the impact of a new garage on the city's historic district and its potential designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site should a planned 527-space new garage be constructed. "Losing the (district's) charm will affect Bethlehem's futurelet's work together to stop construction," said Diana Hodgson, a member of the city's Historic Architectural Review Board, or HARB. The Bethlehem Parking Authority initially proposed two plans for garages at the Walnut Street site, and council voted to approve the smaller plan. A potential new garage with its accompanying residential and retail space falls within the purview of HARB because part of the land is within the city's historic district. City Council created HARB to review projects to ensure compliance with federal and local historic designation requirements. 2:58 +3 Walnut Street Garage proposals rejected by Bethlehem HARB The Bethlehem Historical Architectural Review Board rejected two options for a new Walnut Street parking facility proposed by the Bethlehem Parking Authority. HARB rejected both plans for the garage last month as inconsistent with the historic district's character. Still, only Bethlehem City Council has the authority to issue legally binding decisions on such issues. Tuesday, Hodgson was joined by other members of the HARB board who did not recommend either garage design to City Council. Council seemingly ignored their comments when it voted to approve the plan for the smaller garage, the HARB representatives said. "These are your guidelines we are asked to follow," said HARB member Joe McGavin, who said the heights of the proposed buildings were the issue. HARB board member Nik Nikolov also spoke Tuesday and retired his professional experience in the field, commenting that the proposed garage "does not fit harmoniously." Earlier this month, council conducted two public hearings related to changes required to turn the Bethlehem Parking Authority's vision into reality. Those changes were finalized Tuesday. 3:07 +4 Bethlehem City Council votes on future of Walnut Street Garage At a nearly six-hour meeting Tuesday night, Bethlehem City Council voted to move forward with one of the Bethlehem Parking Authority's plans for a new parking garage. The motions were already approved in their first reading following the hearings at a council meeting earlier this month. Still, regulations dictate a second reading is required to finalize an ordinance. The first ordinance dealt with a zoning amendment that would be required to permit both residential and commercial uses on the site, which sits on four parcels of land. Three of these parcels are in Bethlehem's Central Business (CB) zoning district, but the fourth was in the High Density Residential (RT) zoning district. The measure calls for a change in the fourth parcel's zoning from High Density Residential to Central Business zoning district. The move puts the full lot in the Central Business zone, said Darlene Heller, the city's planning director. Council finalized a motion in a 4-2 vote, permitting residential and commercial uses for the entire site. The second motion called for a street vacation for portions of West Walnut Street. Vacating the street also means a section of the street would be turned over to the parking authority and another property owner. Opponents of the ordinance said it would cause unwelcome disruptions for those taking charter buses to the city. EASTON, Pa. The Easton Area school board voted unanimously Tuesday to approve agreements for architectural and engineering services for a construction project which could result in a new high school building. The contracts are with Alloy5 LLC and D'Huy Engineering, both of Bethlehem. The board raised the issue of a construction project last month after the question of a new high school had been left dormant with the board for about a year. On Jan. 30, the board voted to allow the district to move forward in the process. The options presented to the board in April 2023 included a building renovation, a hybrid concept with new construction and adaptive reuse or a newly constructed building. The 378,000-square-foot high school, which sits on 81 acres along William Penn Highway, was last renovated in 2003. The administration previously stated the existing building is not sufficient for its 3,000 students. Last month, the administration strongly recommended building a new high school building at the current location at 2601 William Penn Highway. Initial budgets for the project ranged from $190 million to $250 million. The fees paid to the architects and engineers will be based on the final cost of the project. The agreements call for the district to pay hourly rates until a final budget is approved, at which point the fee will be fixed at an amount not to exceed 5.7% of the construction costs. FREEMANSBURG, Pa. Freemansburg's Main Street will get a new look, perhaps starting sometime in June. "We are going to get a very nice revitalization to our Main Street corridor," Borough Manager Jonathan Itterly said Wednesday. "This will be a huge benefit to our residents." The borough has received $1.5 million from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the work on Main Street. The improvements will also be underground, as gas company UGI and the Bethlehem water authority will update their infrastructure. The road work will be "full-depth reconstruction," not just paving. "The corridor was in very poor condition," Itterly said. The work will add decorative lighting to the little canal town, add a historical look, and include crosswalks in keeping with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). With the improvements, there will be some inconvenience. "We are planning on two phases which will include complete road closings," Itterly said. The two stages of work on Main Street will involve shutting the street. One phase will require closing Main Street from the bridge over the Lehigh River to Monroe Street, and the other involves closing Monroe Street to Washington Street. The sequence of work has not been set, but Itterly said residents will be kept in the loop. The June starting date is only tentative at this time. "We plan on sending every affected resident a certified letter inviting them to a Town Hall so we can inform them about the project before construction," he said. At that meeting renderings of the next version of Main Street will be on display. The state Department of Community and Economic Development will provide $200,000 for streetscapes -- the corridor's appearance -- and another potential grant is pending. Residents may face some service interruptions and changes in trash pickup. Itterly said everything they should expect during construction will be reviewed. In the long run, Itterly wants to see improvement on Washington Street too, but he said the borough wanted to get Main Street done first. The Borough of Freemansburg covers about one square mile. It was founded in 1856 and is named for Jacob Freeman, whose grandfather settled in the area in the 1700s, according to the borough website. The borough has about 2,800 residents and shares borders with the City of Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township and Lower Saucon Township. The borough is on the banks of the Lehigh River in Northampton County and is part of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Canal Corridor. Lock No. 44 of the D&L Canal is in Freemansburg, along with the lock keeper's house and a restored mule barn. HELLERTOWN, Pa. -- The old Wolf School in Hellertown, now an apartment building, has been sold for $3 million, according to Northampton County property records. The sale was recorded Feb. 12. The building's name comes from early 19th-century Gov. George Wolf, not the more recent Gov. Tom Wolf. The former elementary school at 215 E. High St. has 18 units, county records say. The school closed in 1982, according to a Saucon Valley School District alumni website, and was converted into apartments. The building dates from around 1900, county records say, and contains 22,244 square feet. It was at first a high school and later an elementary school. The Wolf School dates back to before the merger of the Hellertown and Lower Saucon school districts in 1970. The buyer is listed as a limited liability corporation based a private home in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The previous owner was Martin Zawarski. The school's name, as are others named Wolf or Governor Wolf, is in honor of George Wolf, Pennsylvania's seventh governor and "the father of the public school system" in the state. Wolf (1777-1840) was born in East Allen Township in what is now Northampton County. Wolf became a lawyer and postmaster of Easton, according to the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission. He was a Democrat who served in the state General Assembly and the U.S. House of Representatives. He served as Pennsylvania's governor from 1829 to 1835. ALLENTOWN, Pa. - Two brothers behind one of the Lehigh Valley's most infamous murder cases have been given new sentences. And with those sentences comes a chance at freedom, decades from now. Both Bryan and David Freeman were given new sentences of 60 years to life in prison. They both have to serve 31 additional years before they're eligible for parole. Bryan was 17 and David was 16 when they, along with their 18-year-old cousin Nelson Benny Birdwell, killed the brothers' parents and younger brother in brutal fashion. It happened back in 1995 inside the family's Salisbury Township home. The Freemans' crime shocked the nation and became known as the teenage skinhead murders back in 1995. Bryan pleaded guilty to the death of his mother. David pleaded guilty to the death of his father, and Birdwell went to trial and was found guilty of Dennis Freeman's death. Bryan and David pleaded guilty and were given sentences of life without parole. But then in 2012 in Miller vs. Alabama, the Supreme Court ruled it was unconstitutional to automatically sentence juveniles to life without parole. Thousands of juvenile lifers across the country, including the Freemans, were given new re-sentencing hearings. Other cases followed, outlining the parameters for re-sentencing. Bryan and David Freeman cried as they addressed the court prior to their re-sentencing. Bryan said he wished he could go back in time and change what he did, and David said he couldn't express how sorry he was for the murder of his family, that they were exceptional people. If they are granted parole down the road, they'll be in their mid-70s by then. During the Freemans' hearing the court heard testimony from law enforcement officials who described the brutal crime, prison officials who described the brothers' progress while in prison, and mental health experts who were divided on whether they were truly capable of rehabilitation. In the end, Judge Doug Reichley sentenced both brothers to 60 years to life in prison. "The community is protected and if they don't hurt anybody else, we are satisfied with that," said First Assistant District Attorney Eric Dowdle. We spoke with the family after the resentencing. They said they lost six family members that fateful night in 1995. They say they wish the sentence were shorter, but they understand. Attorneys for the Freemans were unavailable. It's possible they could appeal. BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Northampton Community College's Culinary Arts Department is taking a closer look at how food has influenced Black culture during Soul Food Week, in conjunction with Black History Month. Soul food is Executive Chef Robert Rhymes' passion. "It's something that I grew up with so it's very much a part of my fiber," he said. It's very much a fiber in the Black community. Rhymes is visiting Northampton Community College's Hampton Winds restaurant for the week. He's the program coordinator and executive chef at Kaskaskia College in Illinois and helping the culinary department at NCC celebrate Soul Food Week. He's teaching students the history behind the delicious dishes. "Many things that became delicacies in the African-American community were discarded parts of the animal or discarded plants or plants that didn't have much marketable value to other groups," said Rhymes. He said Black families figured out how to make those foods into something many can't wait to sink their teeth into today. On Tuesday he met with students from Liberty and Freedom high schools and together they made gumbo. Josiah Bynum from Liberty High School was one of those students. "There was sausage in there, there were some shrimp, vegetables like celery, carrots, you know and then we did a roux," he said. Rhymes also taught the students that it's called soul food for a reason. Lamiyah Shipman from Freedom High said, "We really learned how to put your soul, your love in your food, and really bring the passion to it." That's what Rhymes hopes the students take from their time with him. With a big smile on his face he said, "The ingredient that's never printed on a recipe that's considered soul food, but it's always present, is love." On Wednesday NCC will host a lunch at Hampton Winds and a dinner Friday night as part of their Soul Food Week celebration. The main course? "We're going to be making some buttermilk fried chicken that's in a succulent batter, it's actually double battered," said Rhymes. If you would like to make a reservation for either the lunch on Feb. 21 or dinner on Feb. 23, you can do so by going to nccgo.cc/SoulFoodWeek. PALMER TWP., Pa. At its meeting Tuesday night, the Palmer Township Board of Supervisors discussed a feasibility study for a new police station within the township. According to the board, a new station is necessary because the current facility located within the township's municipal government complex off Newburg Road has long been too small and outdated to accommodate a growing police force. "There's no decisions [to be] made other than that we definitely need a new police station," said township manager Robert Williams, who noted that nothing is off the table regarding the plans. "We can't squeeze another police officer in that building." A presentation by the township's public services department estimated that conducting a feasibility study to examine possible sites for the new police station or deciding to demolish and rebuild a larger station at the current location would cost between $8,800 and $86,000. The presentation named Bethlehem-based architect Alloy5 as the lowest bidder, but board Vice President Joseph Armato cautioned the supervisors against rushing to accept the bid. Cheaper is not always better, and the board should have more time to review bids, Armato said. One resident expressed concern that building a new police station in a less centrally located area of the township would compromise police response times. Palmer Township Police Chief Wayne Smith objected, stating that response times would remain at around three minutes since officers would still be assigned to answer calls in specific corners of the township. Ultimately, the board took no action on the feasibility study. Speeding signs In other news, the public services department also presented a proposal to construct "radar feedback speed signs" to deter drivers from speeding throughout the township. The solar-powered signs would be mounted on a 14-foot pole similar to existing structures in neighboring Bethlehem Township at a cost of about $12,200 each, according to the proposal. Three possible locations for the signs are: northbound on Mine Lane Road across from Fairview Park, southbound on Van Buren Road and westbound on Hartley Avenue. Smith said his officers had issued many speeding citations at these locations, especially on Mine Lane Road. While several residents spoke in favor of stronger speed enforcement measures, and the board seemed receptive to installing the signs, Supervisor Mike Mitchell expressed concern that their cost had not been accounted for in Palmer Township's 2024 budget. Discussion on the signs should be delayed until next year's budget cycle, Mitchell said. "Why have a budget if you're not gonna stick to it?" Mitchell appealed to the board. The board also took no action on the sign installations. The Palmer Township Board of Supervisors will next meet on Monday, Feb. 26, according to township's 2024 meeting schedule. BETHLEHEM, Pa. Bethlehem City Council heard input from over 30 individuals Tuesday night, asking the body to create a resolution supporting a ceasefire of the fighting in Gaza. Speakers ranged from college students to community members, all of whom denounced the violence in the Middle East. Impassioned speakers, one after another, gave their personal accounts of discrimination in the U.S. for their beliefs, but they also expressed sympathy and horror for the region's recent events. Encouraging council to take action, many said council's decision will impact votes in November during elections. "A lot of us are young voters. We are watching every movement you make. You need to care," a student said. Other speakers cautioned, thinking that the issue does not have local impacts. "Other cities have passed resolutions. Please don't claim this is not a local issue," said the student. Councilmember Hillary Kwiatek said she was inspired by the more than 30 speakers who stood up to the podium Tuesday. "I'm proud of our students, neighbors and community members, and I am glad to hear from you tonight," she said. Councilmember Bryan Callahan pushed for a resolution Tuesday. While supportive councilmembers agreed they would work together to bring something forward to vote, they would not vote Tuesday, as they said they wanted to ensure they included wording that expressed all their views and those expressed Tuesday. HARRISBURG, Pa. Pennsylvania has invested $5.8 million to preserve more than 1,500 acres of farmland across the state, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced Tuesday. According to a Shapiro press release, the money will protect 22 farms across 11 counties from residential or commercial development. Among the 22 preserved farms, eight are within three counties across 69 News' coverage area. Lehigh County In Lehigh County, the state has invested $220,018 toward preservation, while the county has contributed $1,425,848, for a total investment of $1,645,867. According to the press release, the following three farms in Lehigh County will be preserved: William G. and Cheryl C. Ash and Brian Brady, Heidelberg Township, horse farm Weinhofer Farms LLC, Whitehall Township, 154-acre crop farm Errol W. and Virginia A. Zellner, Brenda Kay and Robert Price, Washington Township, 28-acre crop farm Northampton County In Northampton County, the state has invested $552,722 for farm preservation without additional support from the county. According to the press release, the following two farms in Northampton County will be preserved: Jody L. and Megan M. Snyder, Lehigh Township, 33-acre crop farm Weinhofer Farms LLC #3, East Allen Township, 16-acre crop farm Schuylkill County In Schuylkill County, the state has invested $543,850 toward preservation, while the county has contributed $65,000, for a total investment of $608,850. According to the press release, the following three farms in Schuylkill County will be preserved: Baron and Robin Heatherington #2, Union Township, 50-acre crop farm William K. Stump #1, Wayne Township, 157-acre crop farm Carl H. and Edith E. Wehry and Carl J. Wehry #1, Barry Township, 84-acre crop and livestock farm Other counties with farmland set for preservation are: Adams, Centre, Cumberland, Lancaster, Lebanon, Luzerne, Union and York. Video gaming engine developer Unity Software's (NYSE: U) 2024 isn't developing so nicely. On the back of a disastrous change in its pricing regime and the subsequent resignation of its CEO last year, the company announced it was laying off roughly one-quarter of its workforce. So it's hardly surprising that at least one analyst has become notably more pessimistic on the company's future. Negative developments triggered a downgrade That analyst is Macquarie's Tim Nollen, who last week downgraded Unity's stock to "underperform" -- "sell," in other words -- from his previous "neutral" rating. Now, Nollen believes the shares are only worth $20 apiece, well down from their latest closing price of $32. In Nollen's new take on Unity, he expressed concern about the scale of the company's reorganization. Among the departures are what he termed "key" individuals at ironSource, the Israeli ad tech and mobile app specialist Unity purchased in mid-2022 in an all-stock deal valued at $4.4 billion. The analyst feels that the combination of the two companies has underperformed; the departures are likely to worsen the situation. Nollen also pointed to two other main factors behind his downgrade. He anticipates a delay in Unity's monetization of game engine tech, since game developers are downsizing and cutting costs, too. Finally, he thinks the company will experience "delayed revenue upside," in the wake of the pricing saga. A company in transition Unity kicked off 2024 in a retreat and retrench mode, and we don't yet know how successful interim CEO Jim Whitehurst's team will be in righting the ship. Observers will be waiting to see the effects of its big moves; until there's some indication that they'll benefit the company in the mid- to long-term, investors might want to avoid this specialty tech stock for now. Should you invest $1,000 in Unity Software right now? Before you buy stock in Unity Software, consider this: Story continues The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Unity Software 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 20, 2024 Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Unity Software. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 1 Wall Street Analyst Thinks Unity Software Stock Is Going to $20. Is It a Sell? was originally published by The Motley Fool HARRISBURG, Pa. Pennsylvania has launched a $1 million tuition assistance program to help recruit and retain Emergenecy Medical Services (EMS) professionals. Announced Wednesday by Acting Secreatary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health Dr. Debra Bogen, the program will be funded by revenue from the Fireworks Tax Act over the next three years. "Emergency medical services professionals are an essential part of the health care system," Bogen said. "Knowing that you will have well-trained and qualified individuals arriving to your door 24/7 in the event of an emergency is a safeguard that we want for all Pennsylvanians." According to a press release from Gov. Josh Shapiros' office, residents who have obtained a state certification as an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), or paramedic after July 1, 2023, are eligible to have a portion of their tuition reimbursed. Pennsylvania-licensed EMS agencies are also eligible for a reimbursement of up to $1,250 per fiscal year, the press release said. EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. -- Many say the new FAFSA form has had a rough rollout. It's taking longer than usual for students to find out how much financial aid they'll be eligible for, so now, state schools are being more flexible. More waiting time can often lead to more worries. "They're, 'This is my first choice school, and I really, really want to be here, and oops, now they're not going to tell me if I can afford to be here, and how much longer am I going to have to wait for that?" said Lorna Hunter, the vice president of enrollment management at East Stroudsburg University. In the Department of Education's efforts to simplify the FAFSA form, there have been delays in people finding out the grants and aid they'll be offered. "It's particularly important for the first-time full-time students," said Daniel Greenstein, the chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Usually, students have what they need to know to make their decisions by May 1, but since some won't, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, known as PASSHE, is being more flexible. "Basically allows us to accommodate our students, you know, our low and middle income students in particular, who we really I mean, this is kind of who we're born to serve," said Greenstein. All of the PASSHE schools are now either using rolling admissions to continuously review applications or they're extending the deadline to at least May 15. East Stroudsburg University already has rolling admission, but it's also providing prospective students with estimates on financial aid, so they have a ballpark figure. "We try to calm any fears or anxieties, and part of that is just getting back to them very quickly," said Hunter. "We started talking with our current students pretty early on." "Hopefully, it's only one tough year as the federal government kind of works its way through this transition," said Greenstein. Some private schools and state schools outside of Pennsylvania are making adjustments, too. Though, some students are admitted to colleges on the condition that they'd start during the summer, so those families may have to decide before getting back information about financial aid. UPPER DARBY, Pa. People who ride the rails in Philadelphia will soon be seeing a big change on SEPTA's busiest transit line. The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration announced Wednesday that it has awarded the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority a $317-million grant. SEPTA said it will use the money to buy up to 200 new rail cars for its Market-Frankford Line, replacing cars that have been in service for nearly 25 years. "Millions of Americans use subways, commuter rail, and light rail every day, but many railcars are decades old and in need of replacement," U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news release. The Market-Frankford Line is the most heavily used line in SEPTA's system, providing a mix of elevated and subway train service through Philadelphia's center city between the 69th Street Transportation Center in Upper Darby, Delaware County, and the Frankford Transportation Center. "Newer, better railcars will mean a safer, more reliable, more accessible transportation future for the people of these communities," Nuria Fernandez, FTA's administrator said in a news release. "These cars also represent hundreds of jobs in American factories, building the next generation of American transit." Several political leaders joined SEPTA in celebrating the grant announcement with an event in Upper Darby on Wednesday. Among them were Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Upper Darby Mayor Ed Brown, U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, and U.S. Reps. Mary Gary Scanlon and Dwight Evans. Chicago and Baltimore's transit systems were also awarded grants. In Chicago, METRA will receive $100 million to buy 50 multi-level railcars to replace ones that have been in service for more than 40 years. In Baltimore, the MTA will receive approximately $214 million to buy 52 new light rail vehicles to replace ones that have been in service for more than 25 years. PHILADELPHIA - A man who was accused of shooting and killing a Temple University student has been found guilty. The Hon. J. Scott OKeefe on Tuesday found Latif Williams, 19, guilty of third-degree murder, possession of an instrument of crime, and illegal possession of a firearm, according to a news release from the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office. Williams, who was 17 at the time of the killing in 2021, killed 21-year-old Samuel Collington. Police responded to a person with a gun on the 2200 block of North Park Avenue. Upon arrival, officers say they found Collington suffering multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and back. Collington was taken to Temple Hospital by Police, where he died. Williams is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge OKeefe on May 1, the DA's office said. He will also be tried for a separate carjacking of an elderly man, also in 2021, that day before the same judge, according to the news release. The District Attorneys Office is grateful for the conviction of Latif Williams for this outrageous crime, which not only deeply impacted Mr. Collingtons family and loved ones but affected the entire Temple University community. I again extend my deepest condolences for the terrible loss of a promising young man, District Attorney Larry Krasner said. Thank you to Homicide/Non-Fatal Shootings Unit Supervisor ADA Joanne Pescatore, who prosecuted this case. This conviction is also the work product of the experienced professionals of the PPD, who include Homicide Detectives Joe Murray, Orlando Ortiz, Chris Sweeney, Jim Sloan, and Vince Parker; as well as numerous Crime Scene Unit personnel, DAO victim/witness coordinators, and support staff. GILBERTSVILLE, Pa. - A Montgomery County sheriff's deputy from Gilbertsville is behind bars in New Jersey. The Cape May County prosecutor says 57-year-old James Buckley was arrested at his vacation home in Wildwood on charges related to child pornography. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office says it has suspended Buckley pending the outcome of the investigation. RARITAN TWP., N.J. -- A woman is facing murder charges in the stabbing death of a man in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Raritan Township police were called around 1:40 a.m. Wednesday to a home in the 100 block of Manchester Road, said police and the county prosecutor's office in a news release. There they found 66-year-old Steven Spivey dead, with an apparent stab wound to the chest and a large cut on the side of his head, police said. Investigators also found Domonique Preston, 45, who lives at the home. Preston is the one who called 911, and she initially said the victim had stabbed himself, according to police paperwork. She later admitted several times that she had stabbed Spivey, investigators say. Preston was arrested on scene and charged with first-degree murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon. She's being held at the Warren County Correctional Center. The Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office said it filed a motion to detain Preston pre-trial. Julian Assanges lawyers have begin their final U.K. legal challenge to stop the WikiLeaks founder from being sent to the United States to face spying charges. They argued in London's High Court on Tuesday that his actions had exposed serious criminal actions by U.S. authorities and were of obvious and important public interest. The 52-year-old has been fighting extradition for more than a decade and has spent the last five years in a high-security prison. If the judges rule against Assange, he can ask the European Court of Human Rights to block his extradition. Supporters worry he could be put on a plane to the U.S. before that happens. Assange wasn't in court, and his lawyer said he is unwell. Penn State had a big weekend. 69 News featured Penn State senior Megan Guthrie from Northampton County as she was getting ready to dance the weekend away in support of THON. She was on her feet for 46 hours with other dancers, all for a good cause. Penn State raised $16.9 million this year, beating last year's record by nearly $2 million. All of that money goes to pediatric cancer research and support for families who need it. PHOENIX (AP) The Republican prosecutor of Arizona's most populous county took a thinly veiled swipe at a Democratic counterpart in the East on Wednesday, saying she would not agree to extradition of a suspect in the death of a woman who was fatally bludgeoned in a New York City hotel room, and that he should be tried first in Arizona for stabbing two women here. Raad Almansoori, 26, is being held without bond while Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell's office decides how to charge him in connection with the stabbing of two women in the county in recent days, Mitchell said at a news conference. Those two women survived. Having observed the treatment of violent criminals in the New York area by Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg, I think its safer to keep him here and keep him in custody," said Mitchell, referring to the prosecutor who brought the high-profile case against former President Donald Trump alleging that hush money was paid during his 2016 campaign to cover up an affair. Both Mitchell and Bragg are elected officials. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office responded swiftly. "It is deeply disturbing that D.A. Mitchell is playing political games in a murder investigation, Manhattan D.A. spokesperson Emily Tuttle said in a statement. It is a slap in the face to them and to the victim in our case to refuse to allow us to seek justice and full accountability for a New Yorkers death. The statement said the office is serious about New Yorkers' safety, adding that homicides are down 24% since Bragg took office. Tuttle said New York's homicide rate is less than half that of Phoenix's. Later Wednesday, Mitchell's office said that under Arizona law all pending criminal matters in Arizona are to be resolved first before extradition to the outside state occurs. Almansoori was arrested on Sunday in the stabbing attack earlier that day of a female employee in a bathroom at a McDonalds restaurant in the Phoenix suburb of Surprise. He had also been sought in the stabbing of another woman during a robbery attempt in the Phoenix area a day earlier. Authorities say he was driving a stolen car at the time of his arrest. Almansoori was formally charged with two counts each of attempted murder, aggravated assault and attempted sexual assault and one count of theft of means of transportation. The public defender assigned to Almansoori's case did not respond Wednesday afternoon to an emailed request for comment. Mitchell is known nationally as the sex crimes prosecutor who questioned both Brett Kavanaugh and his accuser Christine Blasey Ford during the 2018 hearings for Kavanaughs confirmation to the U.S. Supreme Court. At the time, Mitchell wrote a memo casting doubts on the strength of Ford's allegations that Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted her when they were in high school. Bragg, a Democrat and Manhattans first Black district attorney, has faced a torrent of criticism from Republicans over his prosecutorial decisions. Some critics have attacked him and distorted his record for bringing charges against Trump. He has also faced backlash for his offices decision not to prosecute certain low-level offenses. Laws passed in New York in 2019, the year before Bragg took office, also restrict the use of bail for misdemeanors and some nonviolent felonies. Neither the bail laws nor Braggs internal policy have any bearing on the treatment of suspects charged with murder. New York City police officials said Tuesday that they wanted to extradite Almansoori in the Feb. 8 killing of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, 38, in a hotel in lower Manhattan. The DAs office said charges in New York arent officially filed until someone is extradited and appears in court. Police officials in Maricopa County said Almansoori had family in the area and had lived there in the past. Oleas-Arancibia was found by staff on the floor of the hotel room. Her death was determined to have been caused by blunt force trauma to the head, and a broken clothes iron was found at the scene, police said. In coordination with the FBI, New York officials are looking to see if Almansoori could have any connection to crimes committed in Florida and Texas, where he also previously lived and has been arrested. Associated Press writers Jake Offenhartz and Maysoon Khan in New York contributed to this report. In this article, we will take a look at the 15 states with the best unemployment benefits in 2024. If you would like to skip our discussion on the US economy, you can go to the 5 States With the Best Unemployment Benefits in 2024. The economic outlook for the United States remains uncertain, with the producer price index rising by 0.3% in January. This marked the most significant increase since August and was higher than the 0.1% forecast. Furthermore, the core producer price index, excluding food and energy, also experienced a higher-than-expected rise of 0.5%. While manufacturing activity, particularly in the production of high-tech goods like semiconductors, has seen a 23% YoY increase, economists at Morgan Stanley project a first-quarter GDP growth rate of 2%. However, they expect a decline in fourth-quarter GDP growth from 3.3% to 2.1%. Consumer sentiments, reflected in the University of Michigan consumer survey, indicate a slight rise above January levels, suggesting confidence in the economy. This sentiment persists despite the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all items showing an increase for the 12 months ending January. The core CPI, excluding the food and energy components, experienced a 0.4% rise in January, keeping its year-over-year increase at 3.9%, consistent with the figures from December. The forecast had predicted a 0.3% and a 3.7% rise, respectively. Shelter costs, representing roughly one-third of the CPI calculation, were a significant driver of the overall increase. The index for the shelter category increased by 0.6% for the month. On an annual basis, shelter costs saw a 6% increase. Similarly, the food index observed a 2.6% YoY increase in January, with month-on-month values rising by 0.4%. While the annual inflation rate is above the 2% benchmark set by the Federal Reserve, the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) showed a 2.9% YoY growth in December. There is an expectation that a potential recession might be deeper and stronger than initially forecasted, particularly with slowing wage growth rates. Keeping these circumstances in mind, there is increased focus on unemployment statistics, as individuals may suffer if employment lags. There are varying levels of concern amongst the states depending on the unemployment rates in different regions. In January, the unemployment rate in the US remained steady at 3.7% for the third consecutive month, with little change in the number of unemployed people, standing at 6.1 million. States with the lowest unemployment rates, such as Maryland and North Dakota, may be less worried, while states with the highest unemployment rates, like Nevada and the District of Columbia, are likely to experience a more significant impact. Major corporations such as NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) have a key role to play in providing employment to a considerable number of people in the US. Interestingly, the technology sector made up 40% of the companies on the list of the best employers in 2023; in fact, six of the top ten employers were IT companies, highlighting the sector's leadership in offering attractive work environments. Story continues Here's what Madison Investments said about Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) in its Q4 2023 investor letter: Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) was positive during the quarter but had a more modest gain in the fourth quarter following a strong third quarter and as a result, lagged the Technology sector more broadly. Alphabets third quarter included solid Search and You Tube results while Cloud growth was a bit softer, growing at 22% year-over-year. Google continues to incorporate AI in its core search businesses. It has been rolled out to a wide number of users across multiple geographies. We will continue to watch how Google adapts AI in its businesses and monitor cloud growth. 15 States With the Best Unemployment Benefits in 2024 Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay Our Methodology To shortlist the 15 states with the best unemployment benefits in 2024, we made use of three weighted metrics, namely the cost of living index (weight of 0.3), the average weekly benefit weight of 0.4), and the number of weeks these benefits extend (weight of 0.3). We then ranked the best states for unemployment benefits on all three of these metrics. We then calculated a weighted average of states' rankings on these three metrics and adjusted the final rankings based on the weighted-average rankings. The states with the best unemployment benefits in 2024 have been ranked in descending order of rankings. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. 15 States With the Best Unemployment Benefits in 2024 15. Colorado Colorado provides unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks as mandated by the law. Individuals eligible for unemployment benefits in Colorado can receive a minimum of $25 and a maximum of $781. These amounts are determined by calculating either 60% of weekly earnings in two quarters or 50% of the average weekly earnings for the past year. Individuals earning additional income while on unemployment benefits will experience a reduction of 25% from their weekly benefits. 14. Ohio In Ohio, unemployment benefits are set at 50% of your average weekly wage of the base period. The minimum weekly benefit stands at $157, and for individuals with dependents, there's a potential for a maximum benefit payment of $757. These benefits are payable for a maximum period of 26 weeks. The cost of living in Ohio is 6% below the national average. 13. Montana In Montana, eligibility for unemployment benefits is determined based on a weekly benefit rate calculated as either 1% of total wages during the base period or 1.9% of wages earned in the two quarters with the highest earnings. The maximum weekly benefit amount stands at $552, with a minimum of $163. The state's annual GDP is reported at $68 billion as of Q3 2023, and it has a population of 1.12 million. Furthermore, Montana provides unemployment benefits for up to 28 weeks, which is among the longest durations in the United States. 12. New Mexico In the third quarter of 2023, the state of New Mexico reported an annual gross domestic product (GDP) of $130.3 billion. The cost of living in New Mexico is 6% below the national average. Unemployment benefits in the state are set at 53.5% of the average weekly wage in the highest-paid quarter of the base period, with a minimum weekly benefit of $86 and a maximum weekly benefit of $511. Eligible individuals can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks. Additionally, those with dependent children under 18 receive a $25 allowance per child for up to two kids. However, the dependent allowance cannot exceed 50% of the weekly allowance. 11. New Jersey New Jersey has a cost-of-living index of 114.1, which is higher than the national cost of living. The state provides unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks. The calculation for these benefits is straightforward, equating to 60% of the average weekly wages in the base period. In New Jersey, the weekly benefit amount ranges from a minimum of $120 to a maximum of $830. As of the third quarter of 2023, New Jersey's GDP amounted to $810.1 billion in goods and services annually. 10. Minnesota Minnesota, with a cost-of-living index of 94.1, provides unemployment benefits for a maximum duration of 26 weeks. The benefit amount is determined as the higher value between 50% of the highest quarter earnings in the base period divided by 13 or 50% of the average weekly earnings in the base period. In Minnesota, the weekly unemployment benefit amount ranges from a minimum of $28 to a maximum of $890. The state recorded an annual GDP of $446 billion as of Q3 2023. 9. Utah The state of Utah provides unemployment benefits for a duration of 26 weeks, with an average benefit value of $391. Utah's cost of living index is 101.5, slightly above the national average. The state recorded an annual real GDP of $270.6 billion as of Q3 2023 and is home to a population of 3.38 million. Utah is at the eighth position on our list of the states with the best unemployment benefits in 2024. 8. Washington Washington state, with a cost-of-living index of 115.10, provides unemployment benefits for a maximum of 26 weeks. The benefit amount is calculated at 3.85% of the average of the highest two-quarter earnings in the base period. Individuals in Washington can receive a weekly unemployment benefit ranging from a minimum of $323 to a maximum of $1,019. If individuals are earning additional income while receiving unemployment benefits, they will experience a reduction of 1/4th of their unemployment benefits. 7. Iowa In Iowa, the cost of living is 10% below the national average. For unemployed individuals, the weekly benefit amounts range from a minimum of $72 to a maximum of $714. The maximum duration for the unemployment period in the state is set at 16 weeks. Iowa's annual GDP stands at $231 billion as of Q3 2023. 6. Oklahoma In Oklahoma, the maximum weekly unemployment benefit is capped at $539, and individuals with dependents may qualify for a higher benefit payment of $707. These benefits are payable for a maximum duration of 26 weeks. With an annual GDP of $241 billion as of Q3 2023 and a population of 4.02 million, Oklahoma sets specific requirements for eligibility. To qualify for unemployment benefits, individuals must provide evidence of active job searching, engaging in a minimum of two job-seeking activities per week, as mandated by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. Click to continue reading and see the 5 States With the Best Unemployment Benefits in 2024. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 15 States With the Best Unemployment Benefits in 2024 is published on Insider Monkey. High-yielding dividend stocks can make for attractive investments given the potential income they can generate for your portfolio. But there is often a trade-off when it comes to high payouts, as high yields may not always be sustainable. One metric investors often rely on to help assess the safety of the dividend is the payout ratio. That's the percentage of a company's earnings that it pays out to its investors as dividend income. When it goes over 100%, this is a concern as it means the company isn't earning enough to cover its dividend. Three stocks that pay more than a 5% dividend yield and also have alarmingly high payout ratios of more than 100% right now are Pfizer (NYSE: PFE), Enbridge (NYSE: ENB), and Philip Morris International (NYSE: PM). Are these stocks that are likely to cut their payouts in the near future? 1. Pfizer Healthcare giant Pfizer provides investors with a fairly high yield of 6.1%. That's 4 times higher than the S&P 500 average of 1.4%. But investors may be dissuaded from investing in the healthcare company for the dividend as Pfizer reported diluted earnings per share (EPS) totaling just $0.37 in 2023 -- that's less than even its quarterly dividend payment of $0.42. At first glance, Pfizer's dividend would appear to be unsustainable and due for a cut. The company experienced a 42% decrease in revenue last year as revenue from its COVID-19 products diminished. But the big reason the company's bottom line was so poor was that Pfizer also wrote off COVID product inventory, which impacted its earnings. The company's adjusted EPS was $1.84, and Pfizer projects that will increase to at least $2.05 for the current year. Pfizer is planning to save $4 billion in expenses through a "cost realignment" program. Overall, there is some risk with Pfizer's dividend but it isn't overly concerning. The company is in the midst of a transition away from COVID-19 products and its recent acquisition of oncology company Seagen also means that it will need to trim some costs related to that purchase. This has the potential to be an underrated buy as Pfizer's stock is trading at a fairly modest 12 times its estimated future profits. Story continues 2. Enbridge Pipeline company Enbridge pays an even higher dividend yield of 7.9%. For 2023, the Canadian-based oil and gas business reported earnings totaling 5.8 billion Canadian dollars, for an EPS of 2.84 Canadian dollars. On an annual basis, Enbridge pays CA$3.66 in dividends per share. If you were filtering out stocks with payout ratios in excess of 100%, you could end up skipping this stock, and that could be a mistake. In Enbridge's case, the company incurs significant depreciation expenses as it is an asset-heavy business, and that can often make its earnings look underwhelming. But it and many other oil and gas stocks rely on distributable cash flow (DCF) to help assess the safety of their payouts. This is a calculation that more closely resembles cash flow than accounting profits. Last year, the company's DCF of CA$11.3 billion rose by CA$0.3 billion from 2022. With 2.1 billion shares outstanding, that puts its DCF per share at around CA$5.30. Enbridge has increased its dividend for 29 consecutive years and is one of the safer oil and gas stocks for income investors to rely on. Its high payout ratio is misleading as this can be an excellent dividend stock to buy and hold. 3. Philip Morris International Tobacco company Philip Morris International pays a dividend that yields 5.8%, which is also well above the S&P 500 average. For 2023, its diluted EPS of $5.02 came in less than its current annualized dividend rate of $5.20 per share. This company's net revenue of $35.2 billion rose by an impressive rate of nearly 11%. But Philip Morris' operating income totaled $11.6 billion and fell by 6% as the company incurred many expenses related to impairment, acquisitions, and geopolitical issues. Its adjusted operating income of $13.3 billion rose by 3%. Philip Morris' dividend may appear to be sustainable for now, but this is the riskiest payout on the list. The company faces an uncertain future as it still relies heavily on cigarettes. Last year, Philip Morris' cigarette shipments were down 1.4% but still totaled 612.9 billion versus 125.3 billion for heated tobacco units. And the jury's still out on just how much safer heated tobacco products are than cigarettes. The company may struggle to make much of an improvement in its EPS in the future, so while a dividend cut may not be inevitable, this isn't a stock I wouldn't feel comfortable owning right now. Should you invest $1,000 in Pfizer right now? Before you buy stock in Pfizer, 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 Pfizer 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 20, 2024 David Jagielski has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Enbridge and Pfizer. The Motley Fool recommends Philip Morris International. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. These 3 Dividend Stocks Yield More Than 5% but Their Payout Ratios Are Over 100%. Are Dividend Cuts Coming? was originally published by The Motley Fool Stelac Advisory Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (NYSEARCA:SUSA Free Report) during the third quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor purchased 8,087 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $728,000. A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of SUSA. Moors & Cabot Inc. boosted its stake in iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF by 4.6% in the first quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 2,748 shares of the companys stock worth $266,000 after purchasing an additional 121 shares in the last quarter. McAdam LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF by 5.1% during the third quarter. McAdam LLC now owns 2,838 shares of the companys stock worth $255,000 after buying an additional 137 shares during the period. HB Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF by 0.9% in the third quarter. HB Wealth Management LLC now owns 16,464 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,481,000 after purchasing an additional 141 shares in the last quarter. Retirement Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF by 15.1% during the 4th quarter. Retirement Group LLC now owns 1,186 shares of the companys stock worth $98,000 after acquiring an additional 156 shares during the period. Finally, Eaton Vance Management lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF by 1.8% during the 1st quarter. Eaton Vance Management now owns 11,215 shares of the companys stock worth $1,086,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Get iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF Stock Performance Shares of iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF stock traded down $0.46 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $103.06. 38,497 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 881,410. iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF has a 1-year low of $81.89 and a 1-year high of $105.18. The company has a market cap of $4.24 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.19 and a beta of 1.02. The firms 50-day moving average price is $101.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $95.59. iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (SUSA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Extended ESG Select index. The fund tracks an index of US companies with high environmental, social and governance (ESG) factor scores as calculated by MSCI. SUSA was launched on Jan 24, 2005 and is managed by BlackRock. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SUSA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF (NYSEARCA:SUSA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA ESG Select ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MTY Food Group Inc. (TSE:MTY Free Report) Stock analysts at Raymond James issued their Q1 2024 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for MTY Food Group in a report issued on Thursday, February 15th. Raymond James analyst M. Glen forecasts that the company will post earnings of $0.83 per share for the quarter. Raymond James currently has a Market Perform rating and a $60.00 target price on the stock. The consensus estimate for MTY Food Groups current full-year earnings is $4.18 per share. Raymond James also issued estimates for MTY Food Groups Q2 2024 earnings at $1.10 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $1.15 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.86 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $3.95 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $4.44 EPS. Get MTY Food Group alerts: A number of other research analysts have also issued reports on the company. Acumen Capital lifted their target price on MTY Food Group from C$60.00 to C$75.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, February 16th. Scotiabank cut their target price on shares of MTY Food Group from C$62.00 to C$55.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 16th. TD Securities cut their target price on shares of MTY Food Group from C$65.00 to C$60.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 16th. National Bankshares cut their target price on shares of MTY Food Group from C$71.00 to C$59.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 16th. Finally, CIBC cut their target price on MTY Food Group from C$71.00 to C$62.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of C$59.86. MTY Food Group Price Performance Shares of TSE MTY opened at C$49.14 on Monday. MTY Food Group has a fifty-two week low of C$49.00 and a fifty-two week high of C$69.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 163.54. The stock has a market cap of C$1.20 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.70, a P/E/G ratio of 0.75 and a beta of 1.95. The firms 50-day simple moving average is C$55.49 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$56.61. MTY Food Group Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, February 15th were issued a dividend of $0.28 per share. This is a boost from MTY Food Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. This represents a $1.12 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.28%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, February 2nd. MTY Food Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 26.61%. MTY Food Group Company Profile (Get Free Report) MTY Food Group Inc operates and franchises quick-service, fast-casual, and casual dining restaurants in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It also sells retail products under a multitude of banners. The company was formerly known as iNsu Innovations Group Inc and changed its name to MTY Food Group Inc in July 2003. Read More Receive News & Ratings for MTY Food Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MTY Food Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Antero Midstream Co. (NYSE:AM Get Free Report) has earned an average recommendation of Hold from the six research firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price objective among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $12.63. Separately, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Antero Midstream from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 1st. Get Antero Midstream alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on AM Antero Midstream Stock Performance Shares of AM stock opened at $12.47 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.98 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.19 and a beta of 2.25. Antero Midstream has a one year low of $9.56 and a one year high of $13.46. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $12.32 and its 200-day simple moving average is $12.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.49, a quick ratio of 0.95 and a current ratio of 0.95. Antero Midstream (NYSE:AM Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 15th. The pipeline company reported $0.24 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.21 by $0.03. Antero Midstream had a net margin of 35.69% and a return on equity of 19.96%. The company had revenue of $260.17 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $261.04 million. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.20 earnings per share. Antero Midstreams revenue was up 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts anticipate that Antero Midstream will post 0.91 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Antero Midstream Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, February 7th. Investors of record on Wednesday, January 24th were paid a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, January 23rd. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.22%. Antero Midstreams dividend payout ratio is presently 116.88%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. boosted its holdings in Antero Midstream by 58.7% during the first quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 33,613 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $365,000 after buying an additional 12,431 shares in the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Antero Midstream by 11.8% during the first quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 99,908 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $1,086,000 after buying an additional 10,513 shares in the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Antero Midstream by 21.4% during the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 76,529 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $829,000 after buying an additional 13,493 shares in the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC bought a new stake in Antero Midstream during the first quarter worth approximately $239,000. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can boosted its holdings in Antero Midstream by 12.1% during the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 171,400 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $1,889,000 after buying an additional 18,435 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 52.02% of the companys stock. Antero Midstream Company Profile (Get Free Report Antero Midstream Corporation owns, operates, and develops midstream energy infrastructure in the Appalachian Basin. It operates through Gathering and Processing, and Water Handling segments. The Gathering and Processing segment includes a network of gathering pipelines and compressor stations that collects and processes production from Antero Resources' wells in West Virginia and Ohio. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Antero Midstream Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Antero Midstream and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Builders FirstSource (NYSE:BLDR Get Free Report) is set to post its quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect Builders FirstSource to post earnings of $2.71 per share for the quarter. Individual interested in participating in the companys earnings conference call can do so using this link. Builders FirstSource Trading Down 0.5 % Shares of NYSE:BLDR opened at $182.93 on Wednesday. Builders FirstSource has a 1 year low of $76.69 and a 1 year high of $189.40. The firm has a market capitalization of $22.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.53 and a beta of 2.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 1.76 and a quick ratio of 1.11. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $171.23 and its 200-day moving average price is $144.73. Get Builders FirstSource alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. StockNews.com upgraded Builders FirstSource from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. Bank of America raised Builders FirstSource from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the company from $153.00 to $200.00 in a research note on Monday, January 29th. Truist Financial downgraded Builders FirstSource from a buy rating to a hold rating and increased their price objective for the company from $165.00 to $185.00 in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on Builders FirstSource from $184.00 to $200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 19th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on Builders FirstSource from $135.00 to $150.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, December 7th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $172.87. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider Michael Alan Farmer sold 3,318 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $145.64, for a total transaction of $483,233.52. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 60,660 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,834,522.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Builders FirstSource A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its holdings in Builders FirstSource by 13.5% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 512,866 shares of the companys stock valued at $85,619,000 after acquiring an additional 60,916 shares during the period. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main boosted its holdings in Builders FirstSource by 50.7% during the 4th quarter. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main now owns 79,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $13,238,000 after acquiring an additional 26,685 shares during the period. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio boosted its holdings in Builders FirstSource by 20.9% during the 4th quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 87,558 shares of the companys stock valued at $14,617,000 after acquiring an additional 15,155 shares during the period. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV boosted its stake in shares of Builders FirstSource by 7.5% in the 4th quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 12,840 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,144,000 after buying an additional 891 shares during the period. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc boosted its stake in shares of Builders FirstSource by 13.8% in the 4th quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 946,138 shares of the companys stock valued at $157,949,000 after buying an additional 114,743 shares during the period. 94.73% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Builders FirstSource Company Profile (Get Free Report) Builders FirstSource, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and supplies building materials, manufactured components, and construction services to professional homebuilders, sub-contractors, remodelers, and consumers in the United States. It offers lumber and lumber sheet goods comprising dimensional lumber, plywood, and oriented strand board products that are used in on-site house framing; manufactured products, such as wood floor and roof trusses, steel roof trusses, wall panels, stairs, and engineered wood products; and windows, and interior and exterior door units, as well as interior trims and custom products comprising intricate mouldings, stair parts, and columns under the Synboard brand name. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Builders FirstSource Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Builders FirstSource and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RI grew its stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Free Report) by 973.7% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 13,464 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 12,210 shares during the quarter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RIs holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $1,224,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Kranot Hishtalmut Le Morim Tichoniim Havera Menahelet LTD purchased a new position in Novo Nordisk A/S in the 3rd quarter worth $2,408,000. Benedict Financial Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 94.0% in the third quarter. Benedict Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 44,292 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,028,000 after acquiring an additional 21,457 shares during the period. CENTRAL TRUST Co increased its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 111.6% in the third quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co now owns 6,004 shares of the companys stock valued at $546,000 after acquiring an additional 3,166 shares during the period. Green Square Capital Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 103.7% in the third quarter. Green Square Capital Advisors LLC now owns 2,612 shares of the companys stock valued at $238,000 after acquiring an additional 1,330 shares during the period. Finally, Ieq Capital LLC increased its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 136.6% in the third quarter. Ieq Capital LLC now owns 27,474 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,498,000 after acquiring an additional 15,860 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.41% of the companys stock. Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research firms have issued reports on NVO. Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. They issued an overweight rating and a $120.00 price objective on the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $140.00 target price on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research note on Tuesday. TD Cowen lifted their target price on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from $105.00 to $115.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, December 4th. Finally, UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research note on Tuesday, January 16th. They set a neutral rating on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $121.25. Novo Nordisk A/S Stock Performance Shares of NVO traded down $1.21 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $120.24. 2,673,354 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,929,563. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a quick ratio of 0.64 and a current ratio of 0.82. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $109.02 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $89.84. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 1 year low of $67.66 and a 1 year high of $124.76. The stock has a market cap of $539.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 44.89, a P/E/G ratio of 2.01 and a beta of 0.41. Novo Nordisk A/S Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a Semi-Annual dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 2nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, March 25th will be issued a dividend of $0.664 per share. This is a boost from Novo Nordisk A/Ss previous Semi-Annual dividend of $0.22. This represents a yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, March 22nd. Novo Nordisk A/Ss dividend payout ratio is currently 22.92%. About Novo Nordisk A/S (Free Report) Novo Nordisk A/S, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the research and development, manufacture, and distribution of pharmaceutical products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, North America, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity Care, and Rare Disease. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NVO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Novo Nordisk A/S and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RI increased its stake in Lockheed Martin Co. (NYSE:LMT Free Report) by 6.7% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 10,291 shares of the aerospace companys stock after acquiring an additional 642 shares during the quarter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RIs holdings in Lockheed Martin were worth $4,209,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its position in Lockheed Martin by 73.0% in the 3rd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 64 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 27 shares during the period. CGC Financial Services LLC acquired a new stake in Lockheed Martin in the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. acquired a new stake in Lockheed Martin in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Milestone Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Lockheed Martin in the 3rd quarter valued at $33,000. Finally, KB Financial Partners LLC acquired a new stake in Lockheed Martin in the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Institutional investors own 74.26% of the companys stock. Get Lockheed Martin alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have issued reports on LMT shares. UBS Group cut their price objective on shares of Lockheed Martin from $488.00 to $475.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Susquehanna cut their price objective on shares of Lockheed Martin from $550.00 to $540.00 and set a positive rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price objective on shares of Lockheed Martin from $438.00 to $472.00 in a report on Monday, January 22nd. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on shares of Lockheed Martin from $513.00 to $503.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Finally, Citigroup cut their price target on shares of Lockheed Martin from $540.00 to $508.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Lockheed Martin has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $491.92. Lockheed Martin Price Performance Shares of LMT stock traded up $2.47 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $426.74. The company had a trading volume of 320,881 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,169,777. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.53. The stocks 50-day moving average is $442.49 and its two-hundred day moving average is $440.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $103.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.87 and a beta of 0.49. Lockheed Martin Co. has a 52 week low of $393.77 and a 52 week high of $508.10. Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The aerospace company reported $7.90 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $7.26 by $0.64. The business had revenue of $18.87 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.96 billion. Lockheed Martin had a return on equity of 79.91% and a net margin of 10.24%. Lockheed Martins revenue for the quarter was down .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $7.79 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that Lockheed Martin Co. will post 26.19 EPS for the current fiscal year. Lockheed Martin Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 1st will be paid a dividend of $3.15 per share. This represents a $12.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.95%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 29th. Lockheed Martins dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 45.74%. Lockheed Martin Company Profile (Free Report) Lockheed Martin Corporation, a security and aerospace company, engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of technology systems, products, and services worldwide. The company operates through Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control, Rotary and Mission Systems, and Space segments. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Lockheed Martin Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lockheed Martin and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Elastic (NYSE:ESTC Get Free Report) traded down 5.8% on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $117.60 and last traded at $118.06. 303,385 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 77% from the average session volume of 1,301,324 shares. The stock had previously closed at $125.38. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth ESTC has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Piper Sandler raised their price objective on Elastic from $84.00 to $105.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on Elastic from $87.00 to $98.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Barclays raised their price objective on Elastic from $110.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday. Oppenheimer raised their price objective on Elastic from $95.00 to $110.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised Elastic from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and raised their price objective for the company from $90.00 to $108.00 in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $96.28. Get Elastic alerts: Check Out Our Latest Research Report on ESTC Elastic Trading Down 4.1 % The companys 50 day moving average price is $117.34 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $91.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a current ratio of 1.89 and a quick ratio of 1.89. The stock has a market capitalization of $11.97 billion, a PE ratio of -63.00 and a beta of 0.95. Elastic (NYSE:ESTC Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 30th. The company reported $0.37 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.24 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $311.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $304.44 million. Elastic had a negative net margin of 16.62% and a negative return on equity of 30.65%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 17.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted ($0.50) earnings per share. As a group, analysts expect that Elastic will post -1.17 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Activity In other news, Director Shelley B. Leibowitz sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, December 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.53, for a total value of $115,530.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 5,577 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $644,310.81. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, Director Shelley B. Leibowitz sold 1,000 shares of Elastic stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, December 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.53, for a total value of $115,530.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 5,577 shares in the company, valued at $644,310.81. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CTO Shay Banon sold 89,995 shares of Elastic stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $116.10, for a total transaction of $10,448,419.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief technology officer now owns 4,520,036 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $524,776,179.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 128,867 shares of company stock valued at $14,928,615. Company insiders own 18.10% of the companys stock. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Elastic by 17.2% in the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 5,780 shares of the companys stock valued at $514,000 after buying an additional 848 shares in the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Elastic by 9.5% in the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 6,472 shares of the companys stock valued at $576,000 after buying an additional 564 shares in the last quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund purchased a new stake in Elastic in the 1st quarter valued at $295,000. Rhumbline Advisers raised its position in Elastic by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 72,555 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,454,000 after purchasing an additional 2,274 shares during the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. raised its position in Elastic by 4.8% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 5,616,149 shares of the companys stock valued at $499,557,000 after purchasing an additional 259,742 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.66% of the companys stock. Elastic Company Profile (Get Free Report) Elastic N.V., a data analytics company, delivers solutions designed to run in public or private clouds in multi-cloud environments. It primarily offers Elastic Stack, a set of software products that ingest and store data from various sources and formats, as well as performs search, analysis, and visualization on that data. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Elastic Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Elastic and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Eldorado Gold (TSE:ELD Get Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) is scheduled to be issuing its quarterly earnings data after the market closes on Thursday, February 22nd. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of C$0.23 per share for the quarter. Eldorado Gold Stock Up 3.4 % TSE ELD opened at C$15.27 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$16.54 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$14.83. Eldorado Gold has a 12 month low of C$11.19 and a 12 month high of C$18.30. The company has a market capitalization of C$3.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.24, a PEG ratio of 56.20 and a beta of 1.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.04, a current ratio of 4.00 and a quick ratio of 2.28. Get Eldorado Gold alerts: Insider Transactions at Eldorado Gold In related news, Senior Officer Mehmet Yilmaz sold 10,195 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$17.63, for a total transaction of C$179,737.85. In other news, Senior Officer Mehmet Yilmaz sold 10,195 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$17.63, for a total transaction of C$179,737.85. Also, Senior Officer Karen Christine Aram sold 7,362 shares of Eldorado Gold stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$17.50, for a total value of C$128,840.15. Company insiders own 0.66% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts have recently weighed in on ELD shares. Stifel Nicolaus lowered shares of Eldorado Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from C$15.50 to C$17.25 in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Stifel Canada lowered shares of Eldorado Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. BMO Capital Markets raised their price objective on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$17.00 to C$18.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Canaccord Genuity Group boosted their price objective on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$16.00 to C$17.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 7th. Finally, National Bankshares boosted their price objective on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$19.00 to C$21.00 in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$17.64. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on ELD Eldorado Gold Company Profile (Get Free Report) Eldorado Gold Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mining, exploration, development, and sale of mineral products primarily in Turkey, Canada, Greece, and Romania. The company primarily produces gold, as well as silver, lead, and zinc. It holds a 100% interest in the Kisladag and Efemcukuru gold mines located in western Turkey; Lamaque gold mines located in Canada; and Olympias, Stratoni, Skouries, Perama Hill, and Sapes gold mines located in Greece, as well as the 80.5% interest in Certej development projects located in Romania. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Eldorado Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eldorado Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rice Partnership LLC reduced its position in Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:FCX Free Report) by 75.4% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 14,946 shares of the natural resource companys stock after selling 45,748 shares during the period. Rice Partnership LLCs holdings in Freeport-McMoRan were worth $557,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. acquired a new position in shares of Freeport-McMoRan in the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. KB Financial Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Freeport-McMoRan in the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. Retirement Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Freeport-McMoRan by 97.1% in the 2nd quarter. Retirement Group LLC now owns 670 shares of the natural resource companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 330 shares during the last quarter. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Freeport-McMoRan in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, BluePath Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Freeport-McMoRan in the 3rd quarter valued at $28,000. 77.96% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Freeport-McMoRan alerts: Freeport-McMoRan Stock Up 2.0 % Shares of FCX traded up $0.77 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $38.91. The company had a trading volume of 6,917,777 shares, compared to its average volume of 12,444,208. The companys 50 day moving average price is $40.22 and its 200 day moving average price is $38.41. The stock has a market cap of $55.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.56 and a beta of 2.06. Freeport-McMoRan Inc. has a 52 week low of $32.83 and a 52 week high of $44.70. The company has a quick ratio of 1.38, a current ratio of 2.42 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32. Freeport-McMoRan Dividend Announcement Freeport-McMoRan ( NYSE:FCX Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The natural resource company reported $0.27 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.23 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $5.91 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.85 billion. Freeport-McMoRan had a net margin of 8.09% and a return on equity of 8.41%. The companys revenue was up 2.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.52 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that Freeport-McMoRan Inc. will post 1.46 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 1st. Investors of record on Friday, January 12th were given a dividend of $0.15 per share. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.54%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, January 11th. Freeport-McMoRans dividend payout ratio is presently 23.62%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein upgraded shares of Freeport-McMoRan from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price target for the company from $41.00 to $48.50 in a report on Monday, January 8th. Eight Capital set a $55.00 target price on shares of Freeport-McMoRan and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, December 6th. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $55.00 target price on shares of Freeport-McMoRan in a report on Thursday, January 25th. UBS Group reduced their target price on shares of Freeport-McMoRan from $42.00 to $41.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, StockNews.com lowered shares of Freeport-McMoRan from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $44.95. View Our Latest Research Report on FCX Freeport-McMoRan Profile (Free Report) Freeport-McMoRan Inc engages in the mining of mineral properties in North America, South America, and Indonesia. It primarily explores for copper, gold, molybdenum, silver, and other metals. The company's assets include the Grasberg minerals district in Indonesia; Morenci, Bagdad, Safford, Sierrita, and Miami in Arizona; Tyrone and Chino in New Mexico; and Henderson and Climax in Colorado, North America, as well as Cerro Verde in Peru and El Abra in Chile. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FCX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:FCX Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Freeport-McMoRan Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Freeport-McMoRan and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. In this article, we will look into the 30 most sustainable countries in the world, if you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to the 5 Most Sustainable Countries in the World. Global Sustainability Outlook According to the 2023 sustainable development report by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Solutions Network, the progress toward sustainable development goals, set in 2015, is sluggish. The world made some progress toward sustainability and circular economy from 2015 to 2019. However, the growth declined massively after the pandemic hit the world in 2020. High-income economies coped better than low and middle-income countries, characterized by their ability to take emergency measures. Despite their prompt emergency measures, these countries were not able to make significant progress across crucial challenges such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and responsible consumption. The sustainability outlook for low-income countries is even bleaker, with limited financial resources exacerbating the impact of these crises. The report states that investments in low and middle-income economies need to be increased to progress globally in terms of sustainable development, suggesting an annual increase of $500 billion in investments by 2025. The report further emphasizes that the world is off track to achieving the SDGs, set for 2030. On the global level, no single SDG is expected to be met, due to climate change and major biodiversity threats. The world faces major challenges such as water scarcity, ocean threats, food shortage, hunger, and derailed education systems among others. The G20 countries represent over 80% of the global GDP, nearly 70% world's forests, and more than 50% of the land mass. These countries account for 90% of global lignite and coal extraction and more than 60% of oil and gas production globally. Low-income and poor economies face major challenges due to climate change, poverty, water scarcity, and hunger among others. Thus, holding the highest share of resources and economic benefits, G20 nations possess a great responsibility of attaining sustainable development and protecting planetary boundaries. On November 16, 2023, Reuters reported that developed countries delivered their $100 billion annual commitment to least developed economies combating climate change in 2022. In 2009, developed economies pledged this aid to support poor economies. However, the target was repeatedly missed, hindering the climate action progress. Low-income countries highly rely on their support to transition to green energy and to strengthen their climate resilience. Story continues Developed economies in Nordic and European regions stand at the forefront of sustainable development, with their significant efforts toward achieving their goals. This is exemplified by the European Union's Green Deal, with the goal of achieving decarbonization, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture, supported by funding mechanisms. However, the region needs a comprehensive infrastructure to integrate SDGs into its foreign policy. The world's largest economy by purchasing power, China presented a mixed outlook. The nation incorporates sustainable development goals into national plans but falls short of explicit integration into its forthcoming five-year plan to exhibit a more robust international leadership on SDGs. On the other hand, the US being one of the biggest economic powers, lags with its limited commitment to the SDGs. The country, under the Biden government, announced to reduce carbon emissions by 40% from 2005 levels by 2030, in 2022. The lack of legislation is one of the major factors stalling the SDG efforts in the country. EU's Commitment to Sustainability and Green Transition On February 6, Reuters reported that the European Union is taking a big step to expand its clean technology production, competing with China and the US. The EU has set a target of generating 40% of its own emission-reduction equipment by 2030, with a focus on solar, wind, and other renewable technologies. The recent Net-Zero Industry Act will make it convenient and quicker to get permits for clean energy technology projects in the region. The target to reach 40% is challenging, however, the EU is ambitious to reach its goal of strengthening its commitment to sustainability and green transition. While the ambitious plan to become self-sufficient in clean energy is a big step toward a clean transition, the responsibility does not lie solely with policymakers and the government. The leading renewable energy companies in the region have a significant role in transforming the vision of green energy into reality. Some of the leading renewable energy companies in the region include RWE Aktiengesellschaft (OTC:RWEOY), Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTC:VWDRY), and Acciona, S.A. (OTC:ACXIF). RWE Aktiengesellschaft (OTC:RWEOY) is a leading German renewable energy company. On February 8, the company announced that RWE Aktiengesellschaft (OTC:RWEOY) and its partner PPC Renewables have decided to expand their clean energy footprint in Greece. The company will be building a 450 MW solar farm in Western Macedonia, Northern Greece. The solar farm construction will start in the coming months, with completion anticipated by 2025. This project aims to contribute to the country's transition toward renewable energy. Vestas Wind Systems A/S (OTC:VWDRY) is a wind turbine company in Denmark. On January 16, the company announced that it had partnered with ArcelorMittal S.A. (OTC:AMSYF), to provide low-emission steel for wind turbine towers. The steel produced from recycled scraps and wind energy-powered electric arc furnaces will substantially reduce carbon footprint compared to traditional methods. This steel offers an emission reduction of 52% for an entire onshore tower and 25% for offshore towers. This partnership signifies Vestas Wind Systems A/S' (OTC:VWDRY) commitment to sustainability. Acciona, S.A. (OTC:ACXIF) is a multinational company specializing in infrastructure management and renewable energy. On February 6, the company announced that it had decided to expand its footprint in India. The company will be developing a 412 MW solar farm in Rajasthan. The project will generate clean energy, sufficient to power 840,000 households in India, and reduce nearly 724,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The project is anticipated to be operational by 2025. This move by Acciona, S.A. (OTC:ACXIF) highlights its commitment to social impact and diversification. Now, let's have a look at the 30 most sustainable countries in the world. 30 Most Sustainable Countries in the World 30 Most Sustainable Countries in the World Methodology To compile our list of the 30 most sustainable countries in the world, we consulted the Sustainable Development Report 2023, by UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The report assesses 192 UN countries across 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) and computes their respective SDG scores. We have also mentioned each country's progress on our list across their SDGs. Our list ranks the most sustainable countries in ascending order of their SDG scores. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. 30 Most Sustainable Countries in the World 30. Chile SDG Score (2023): 78.2 The Southern American nation, Chile is ranked 30th on our list of the most sustainable countries in the world. According to the SDSN, Chile has an SDG score of 78.2. The country has shown progress across multiple SDG indicators, primarily gender equality and clean water and sanitation. 29. Iceland SDG Score (2023): 78.3 Iceland ranks 29th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 78.3, slightly above the regional average of 77.8. The notable challenges faced by the country include hunger, responsible consumption, and sanitation. However, the country has achieved SDG indicators including poverty, peace and justice, clean energy, and inequalities. 28. Greece SDG Score (2023): 78.4 Ranked 28th on our list, Greece reports an SDG score of 78.4. The country faces significant challenges such as responsible consumption and production and marine life conservation. Greece is on track to achieving SDG 6, clean water and sanitation, and SDG 10, reduced inequalities. 27. New Zealand SDG Score (2023): 78.4 New Zealand is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. The country reports an SDG score of 78.4, as of 2023. The country is on track to achieve over 50% of its sustainable development goals. Major challenges remain in hunger and climate change among others. 26. Canada SDG Score (2023): 78.5 Canada ranks 26th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 78.5. The country has achieved SDGs, no poverty and gender equality, as of 2023. However, significant challenges remain for the country across SDGs, zero hunger, climate action, responsible consumption, and life on land. 25. Moldova SDG Score (2023): 78.6 Ranked 25th on our list, Moldova has an SDG score of 78.6. The notable challenges faced by the country include hunger, responsible consumption, and sanitation. However, the country has achieved SDG indicators including poverty, quality, and inequalities, and is on track to achieve sustainable cities and communities. 24. Italy SDG Score (2023): 78.8 Italy is one of the most sustainable countries in the world. It has an SDG score of 78.8. The country is on track to achieve goals including sanitation and no poverty. It is ranked 24th on our list. 23. Slovak Republic SDG Score (2023): 79.1 The Slovak Republic is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. The country has an SDG score of 79.1. The country is on the path to achieving over 50% of its sustainable development goals. Major challenges remain in hunger and climate action. 22. Hungary SDG Score (2023): 79.4 Hungary ranks 22nd on our list. The country has an SDG score of 79.4. The significant challenges faced by the country include climate change, hunger, and goals partnerships. However, the country has achieved SDG 1, no poverty. 21. Japan SDG Score (2023): 79.4 Japan is ranked 21st on our list. The country reports an SDG score of 79.4, as of 2023. The country is on track to achieve over 50% of sustainable goals. It has achieved SDGs including quality education and industry innovation. Major challenges remain in hunger and gender equality among others. 20. Netherlands SDG Score (2023): 79.4 The Netherlands is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. It has an SDG score of 79.4. The country has achieved SDG 1, no poverty. There are still multiple challenges faced by the country across responsible consumption, climate change, and hunger among others. 19. Belgium SDG Score (2023): 79.5 Ranked 19th on our list, Belgium reports an SDG score of 79.5. The country faces significant challenges such as responsible consumption and production and marine life conservation. However, it has shown progress across various SDGs and has achieved SDGs, no poverty, and gender equality. 18. Portugal SDG Score (2023): 80.0 Portugal ranks 18th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 80, higher than the regional average of 77.8. The notable challenges faced by the country include hunger, responsible consumption, and marine life. However, the country is on track to achieve goals including poverty, gender equality, and clean water and sanitation. 17. Ireland SDG Score (2023): 80.1 Ireland is ranked 17th on our list. The country reports an SDG score of 80.1, as of 2023. The country is on track to achieve over 60% of its sustainable goals. It has achieved health and well-being and no poverty goals. 16. Spain SDG Score (2023): 80.4 Spain is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. The country is on track to achieve 60% of its sustainable development goals. Major challenges remain in hunger, responsible consumption, and climate action among others. It has an SDG score of 80.4. 15. Switzerland SDG Score (2023): 80.5 Switzerland ranks 15th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 80.5. The major challenges the country faces include hunger, responsible consumption, and climate change. However, the country has achieved SDG including poverty, and is on track to achieve goals including sanitation and economic growth. 14. Latvia SDG Score (2023): 80.7 Latvia is one of the most sustainable countries in the world. It has an SDG score of 80.7. The country has achieved SDG 15, life on land. It is on its path to achieving goals, including sanitation and clean energy. It is ranked 14th on our list. 13. Slovenia SDG Score (2023): 81.0 Ranked 13th on our list, Slovenia has an SDG score of 81. The country has made significant progress and achieved its sustainable development goal of no poverty. Furthermore, It is on track to achieving SDG 6, clean water and sanitation. 12. Croatia SDG Score (2023): 81.5 Croatia is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. It has an SDG score of 81.5. The country has achieved SDGs including no poverty and quality education. Responsible consumption and production is one of the major challenges faced by the country. 11. United Kingdom SDG Score (2023): 81.7 The UK ranks 11th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 81.7. The country has achieved SDG 9, industry, innovation, and infrastructure, as of 2023. The challenges persist across indicators, climate change, responsible consumption and production, and hunger. 10. Estonia SDG Score (2023): 81.7 Ranked 10th on our list, Estonia reports an SDG score of 81.7. The country faces significant challenges such as responsible consumption and production and climate change. The country is on track to achieving SDG 4, quality education, and SDG 15, life on land. 9. Poland SDG Score (2023): 81.8 Poland is ranked among the most sustainable countries in the world. The country is on track to achieve over 50% of its sustainable development goals. Major challenges remain in hunger and marine life conservation 8. Czechia SDG Score (2023): 81.9 Ranked 8th on our list, Czechia reports an SDG score of 81.9. The country faces significant challenges such as responsible consumption and production and climate change. The country is on track to achieving SDG 11, sustainable cities and communities, and SDG 17, partnership for goals. 7. Norway SDG Score (2023): 82.0 Norway ranks 7th on our list. The country has an SDG score of 82. The country has achieved SDG indicators including poverty, health and well-being, clean energy, and reduced inequalities. 6. France SDG Score (2023): 82.0 France is ranked 6th on our list of the most sustainable countries in the world. The country is on track to achieve over 60% of its sustainable development goals. Challenges remain across climate change and consumption. Click to continue reading and see 5 Most Sustainable Countries in the World. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 30 Most Sustainable Countries in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey. Globus Medical (NYSE:GMED Get Free Report) updated its FY 2024 earnings guidance on Tuesday. The company provided EPS guidance of 2.680-2.700 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of 2.690. The company issued revenue guidance of $2.5 billion-$2.5 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $2.5 billion. Globus Medical also updated its FY24 guidance to $2.68 to $2.70 EPS. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades GMED has been the subject of several research reports. Morgan Stanley decreased their price objective on shares of Globus Medical from $60.00 to $53.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 14th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $70.00 price objective on shares of Globus Medical in a research note on Thursday, January 11th. Canaccord Genuity Group lifted their price objective on Globus Medical from $67.00 to $71.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on Globus Medical from $61.00 to $64.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their target price on Globus Medical from $58.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $67.13. Get Globus Medical alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Globus Medical Globus Medical Stock Performance NYSE:GMED traded up $0.08 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $54.24. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,085,690 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,205,497. The stock has a market cap of $7.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.17, a PEG ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.10. The firms fifty day moving average price is $53.40 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $51.34. Globus Medical has a 12-month low of $43.38 and a 12-month high of $62.88. The company has a current ratio of 4.47, a quick ratio of 2.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10. Globus Medical (NYSE:GMED Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 20th. The medical device company reported $0.60 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.59 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $616.53 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $608.21 million. Globus Medical had a return on equity of 9.79% and a net margin of 12.88%. The firms revenue was up 124.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.59 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Globus Medical will post 2.32 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Globus Medical Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of GMED. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in Globus Medical by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 11,277,722 shares of the medical device companys stock worth $600,990,000 after acquiring an additional 32,220 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in Globus Medical by 0.5% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 7,508,520 shares of the medical device companys stock valued at $425,283,000 after purchasing an additional 33,806 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in shares of Globus Medical by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 3,236,599 shares of the medical device companys stock worth $238,796,000 after buying an additional 20,375 shares during the period. State Street Corp grew its position in shares of Globus Medical by 3.8% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 2,370,497 shares of the medical device companys stock worth $141,139,000 after buying an additional 85,737 shares in the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in shares of Globus Medical by 37.2% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 1,837,425 shares of the medical device companys stock valued at $104,073,000 after buying an additional 498,592 shares during the period. 80.54% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Globus Medical Company Profile (Get Free Report) Globus Medical, Inc, a medical device company, develops and commercializes healthcare solutions for patients with musculoskeletal disorders in the United States and internationally. It offers spine products, such as traditional fusion implants comprising pedicle screw and rod systems, plating systems, intervertebral spacers, and corpectomy devices for treating degenerative and congenital conditions, deformity, tumors, and trauma injuries; treatment options for motion preservation technologies that consist of dynamic stabilization, total disc replacement, and interspinous distraction devices; interventional pain management solutions to treat vertebral compression fractures; and regenerative biologic products comprising of allografts and synthetic alternatives. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Globus Medical Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Globus Medical and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Guardian Capital LP grew its stake in shares of ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE:NOW Free Report) by 35.8% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,255 shares of the information technology services providers stock after purchasing an additional 331 shares during the quarter. Guardian Capital LPs holdings in ServiceNow were worth $701,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of NOW. First Foundation Advisors increased its holdings in ServiceNow by 2.1% in the second quarter. First Foundation Advisors now owns 5,292 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,974,000 after buying an additional 108 shares during the last quarter. First Hawaiian Bank increased its holdings in ServiceNow by 2.2% in the third quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 7,514 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $4,200,000 after buying an additional 165 shares during the last quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC increased its holdings in ServiceNow by 7.9% in the second quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC now owns 714 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $401,000 after buying an additional 52 shares during the last quarter. William Blair Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in ServiceNow in the second quarter valued at about $144,098,000. Finally, Catalyst Financial Partners LLC increased its holdings in ServiceNow by 7.8% in the second quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC now owns 926 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $520,000 after buying an additional 67 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.14% of the companys stock. Get ServiceNow alerts: ServiceNow Stock Down 1.8 % NYSE:NOW traded down $13.53 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $739.31. 385,788 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,201,873. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $736.99 and a 200 day moving average price of $644.98. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20. ServiceNow, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $405.37 and a fifty-two week high of $815.32. The firm has a market cap of $151.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 89.52, a PEG ratio of 4.87 and a beta of 0.99. Analyst Ratings Changes ServiceNow ( NYSE:NOW Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The information technology services provider reported $3.11 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.77 by $0.34. ServiceNow had a net margin of 19.30% and a return on equity of 11.85%. The company had revenue of $2.44 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.40 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.88 EPS. The companys revenue was up 25.6% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that ServiceNow, Inc. will post 6.11 earnings per share for the current year. NOW has been the subject of several research analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price objective on ServiceNow from $800.00 to $910.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Oppenheimer increased their price objective on ServiceNow from $750.00 to $800.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, January 18th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on ServiceNow from $700.00 to $750.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Piper Sandler upped their target price on ServiceNow from $750.00 to $830.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Finally, Mizuho upped their target price on ServiceNow from $750.00 to $820.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $750.93. Read Our Latest Analysis on ServiceNow Insider Buying and Selling at ServiceNow In other news, COO Chirantan Jitendra Desai sold 3,150 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, November 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $671.84, for a total value of $2,116,296.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 38,904 shares of the companys stock, valued at $26,137,263.36. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, insider Paul John Smith sold 752 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $672.54, for a total value of $505,750.08. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 1,795 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,207,209.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, COO Chirantan Jitendra Desai sold 3,150 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, November 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $671.84, for a total transaction of $2,116,296.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 38,904 shares in the company, valued at $26,137,263.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 10,162 shares of company stock valued at $7,123,851 in the last three months. 0.24% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. ServiceNow Company Profile (Free Report) ServiceNow, Inc provides end to-end intelligent workflow automation platform solutions for digital businesses in the North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company operates the Now platform for end-to-end digital transformation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, process mining, performance analytics, and collaboration and development tools. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for ServiceNow Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ServiceNow and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Invesco Ltd. lessened its holdings in Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY Free Report) by 28.2% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 496,705 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock after selling 195,311 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. owned about 1.05% of Teledyne Technologies worth $202,944,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Kistler Tiffany Companies LLC purchased a new position in shares of Teledyne Technologies in the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC purchased a new position in shares of Teledyne Technologies in the 3rd quarter valued at $28,000. Benjamin Edwards Inc. raised its stake in shares of Teledyne Technologies by 137.9% in the 2nd quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 69 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $28,000 after acquiring an additional 40 shares during the period. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV raised its stake in shares of Teledyne Technologies by 32.2% in the 3rd quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 115 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $47,000 after acquiring an additional 28 shares during the period. Finally, Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. purchased a new position in shares of Teledyne Technologies in the 2nd quarter valued at $48,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 87.57% of the companys stock. Get Teledyne Technologies alerts: Teledyne Technologies Price Performance TDY opened at $430.99 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day moving average of $432.56 and a 200-day moving average of $411.66. The company has a market capitalization of $20.34 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.30, a PEG ratio of 2.78 and a beta of 1.03. Teledyne Technologies Incorporated has a 1-year low of $364.98 and a 1-year high of $448.71. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 1.17 and a current ratio of 1.69. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Teledyne Technologies ( NYSE:TDY Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The scientific and technical instruments company reported $5.44 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.04 by $0.40. The company had revenue of $1.43 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.46 billion. Teledyne Technologies had a net margin of 15.72% and a return on equity of 10.81%. The companys revenue was up .5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $4.94 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Teledyne Technologies Incorporated will post 20.55 EPS for the current fiscal year. Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on TDY shares. StockNews.com raised shares of Teledyne Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, February 10th. Needham & Company LLC dropped their price target on shares of Teledyne Technologies from $522.00 to $510.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $515.67. View Our Latest Research Report on TDY Insider Activity at Teledyne Technologies In related news, Director Michael T. Smith sold 511 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, January 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $431.00, for a total transaction of $220,241.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 56,492 shares in the company, valued at $24,348,052. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, Director Michael T. Smith sold 511 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, January 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $431.00, for a total transaction of $220,241.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 56,492 shares in the company, valued at $24,348,052. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Robert Mehrabian sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $410.75, for a total value of $20,537,500.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 196,052 shares of the companys stock, valued at $80,528,359. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 74,206 shares of company stock valued at $30,707,174 in the last quarter. Insiders own 2.14% of the companys stock. About Teledyne Technologies (Free Report) Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, together with its subsidiaries, provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and internationally. The company's Instrumentation segment offers monitoring and control instruments for marine, environmental, industrial, and other applications, as well as electronic test and measurement equipment; and power and communications connectivity devices for distributed instrumentation systems and sensor networks. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TDY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Teledyne Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Teledyne Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. JELD-WEN (NYSE:JELD Get Free Report) had its price target lifted by investment analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from $15.00 to $16.00 in a research report issued on Wednesday, Benzinga reports. The firm presently has an underperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas price target would suggest a potential downside of 9.81% from the stocks previous close. Several other analysts also recently commented on the company. Loop Capital assumed coverage on JELD-WEN in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. They set a hold rating and a $22.00 price objective on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their target price on shares of JELD-WEN from $16.00 to $18.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, December 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on JELD-WEN from $17.50 to $18.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, November 13th. B. Riley boosted their price target on JELD-WEN from $17.00 to $20.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday. Finally, Oppenheimer started coverage on shares of JELD-WEN in a research report on Friday, January 19th. They issued a market perform rating on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, JELD-WEN currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $18.30. Get JELD-WEN alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on JELD-WEN JELD-WEN Price Performance Shares of JELD-WEN stock traded down $0.46 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $17.74. 124,196 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 435,360. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.43, a current ratio of 2.08 and a quick ratio of 1.37. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $18.63 and a 200-day simple moving average of $15.80. JELD-WEN has a 52 week low of $10.96 and a 52 week high of $20.10. The firm has a market cap of $1.51 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.46, a PEG ratio of 1.68 and a beta of 2.37. JELD-WEN (NYSE:JELD Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 19th. The company reported $0.37 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.25 by $0.12. JELD-WEN had a return on equity of 19.74% and a net margin of 2.75%. The business had revenue of $1.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.03 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.47 earnings per share. Research analysts forecast that JELD-WEN will post 1.38 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Transactions at JELD-WEN In other JELD-WEN news, major shareholder Turtle Creek Asset Management sold 54,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $19.84, for a total value of $1,071,360.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 760,463 shares of the companys stock, valued at $15,087,585.92. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Company insiders own 1.02% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On JELD-WEN A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of JELD. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its holdings in shares of JELD-WEN by 14.7% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 93,948 shares of the companys stock worth $1,905,000 after acquiring an additional 12,065 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates raised its holdings in shares of JELD-WEN by 19.5% during the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 43,286 shares of the companys stock valued at $878,000 after acquiring an additional 7,059 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its holdings in JELD-WEN by 4.7% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 416,738 shares of the companys stock worth $8,451,000 after purchasing an additional 18,879 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. lifted its holdings in JELD-WEN by 21.3% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 21,499 shares of the companys stock worth $436,000 after buying an additional 3,778 shares during the period. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of JELD-WEN during the first quarter valued at approximately $320,000. 92.28% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. About JELD-WEN (Get Free Report) JELD-WEN Holding, Inc designs, manufactures, and sells doors and windows primarily in North America, Europe, and Australasia. The company offers a line of residential interior and exterior door products, including patio doors, and folding or sliding wall systems; non-residential doors; and wood, vinyl, aluminum, and wood composite windows. Read More Receive News & Ratings for JELD-WEN Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for JELD-WEN and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kahn Brothers Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM Free Report) by 10.6% in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 15,437 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,482 shares during the quarter. Exxon Mobil accounts for about 0.3% of Kahn Brothers Group Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 20th largest position. Kahn Brothers Group Inc.s holdings in Exxon Mobil were worth $1,815,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 1.2% during the second quarter. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. now owns 7,928 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $850,000 after acquiring an additional 92 shares during the last quarter. Lee Financial Co lifted its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter. Lee Financial Co now owns 20,454 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,194,000 after buying an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Traynor Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 4.2% during the 3rd quarter. Traynor Capital Management Inc. now owns 2,346 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $276,000 after buying an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp lifted its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 3.1% during the 3rd quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp now owns 3,119 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $367,000 after buying an additional 95 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Defined Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Exxon Mobil by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Defined Wealth Management LLC now owns 4,051 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $476,000 after buying an additional 96 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 58.53% of the companys stock. Get Exxon Mobil alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts have recently weighed in on XOM shares. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $120.00 price objective on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Monday, February 5th. TD Cowen upgraded shares of Exxon Mobil from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $115.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $133.00 to $132.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Redburn Atlantic upgraded shares of Exxon Mobil from a neutral rating to a buy rating and upped their price target for the company from $116.00 to $119.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 9th. Finally, Erste Group Bank reiterated a hold rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Friday, December 22nd. Nine research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $127.53. Insider Transactions at Exxon Mobil In other news, VP Leonard M. Fox sold 12,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, December 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $102.65, for a total transaction of $1,231,800.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 220,678 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $22,652,596.70. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, Director Jeffrey W. Ubben sold 2,077,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $104.06, for a total value of $216,132,620.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 13,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,352,780. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, VP Leonard M. Fox sold 12,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $102.65, for a total transaction of $1,231,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 220,678 shares in the company, valued at $22,652,596.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.04% of the companys stock. Exxon Mobil Stock Performance XOM traded up $2.09 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $104.84. The stock had a trading volume of 12,951,117 shares, compared to its average volume of 19,034,600. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a current ratio of 1.48. The firm has a market capitalization of $415.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.60, a PEG ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 0.97. The companys 50-day moving average price is $101.18 and its 200 day moving average price is $106.20. Exxon Mobil Co. has a twelve month low of $95.77 and a twelve month high of $120.70. Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $2.48 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.20 by $0.28. Exxon Mobil had a net margin of 10.45% and a return on equity of 18.51%. The business had revenue of $84.34 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $90.03 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $3.40 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 11.6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 9.25 EPS for the current fiscal year. Exxon Mobil Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 11th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, February 14th will be paid a dividend of $0.95 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, February 13th. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.62%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 42.74%. Exxon Mobil Company Profile (Free Report) Exxon Mobil Corporation engages in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States and internationally. It operates through Upstream, Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding XOM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Exxon Mobil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Exxon Mobil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KBR (NYSE:KBR Get Free Report) updated its FY24 earnings guidance on Tuesday. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $3.10 to $3.30 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $3.23. The company issued revenue guidance of $7.4 billion to $7.7 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $7.71 billion. KBR also updated its FY 2024 guidance to 3.100-3.300 EPS. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several analysts have recently weighed in on KBR shares. KeyCorp assumed coverage on shares of KBR in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. They issued an overweight rating and a $63.00 price target for the company. The Goldman Sachs Group cut their price objective on KBR from $75.00 to $66.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, November 3rd. UBS Group decreased their target price on shares of KBR from $65.00 to $63.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, February 2nd. StockNews.com lowered shares of KBR from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 3rd. Finally, Citigroup upped their price target on KBR from $62.00 to $67.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $67.71. Get KBR alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Report on KBR KBR Trading Up 3.9 % KBR opened at $57.47 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $7.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -36.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.31 and a beta of 0.94. KBR has a 52 week low of $49.37 and a 52 week high of $65.87. The businesss 50 day moving average is $54.04 and its two-hundred day moving average is $56.31. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97. KBR (NYSE:KBR Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 20th. The construction company reported $0.69 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.69. The company had revenue of $1.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.78 billion. KBR had a positive return on equity of 25.18% and a negative net margin of 2.82%. The firms revenue was up 7.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.69 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that KBR will post 2.87 EPS for the current year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of KBR. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in shares of KBR by 16.3% in the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 11,008 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $602,000 after purchasing an additional 1,540 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors L.P. boosted its stake in shares of KBR by 71.7% in the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 34,270 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,876,000 after buying an additional 14,308 shares in the last quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can boosted its stake in shares of KBR by 10.0% in the first quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 79,664 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $4,488,000 after buying an additional 7,244 shares in the last quarter. Synovus Financial Corp boosted its stake in shares of KBR by 11.3% in the first quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 25,239 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $1,384,000 after buying an additional 2,563 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board boosted its stake in shares of KBR by 103.0% in the first quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 1,920 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $105,000 after buying an additional 974 shares in the last quarter. KBR Company Profile (Get Free Report) KBR, Inc provides scientific, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and commercial customers worldwide. The company operates through Government Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions segments. The Government Solutions segment offers life-cycle support solutions to defense, intelligence, space, aviation, and other programs and missions for military and other government agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for KBR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KBR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Lavaca Capital LLC bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 2,516 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $233,000. Several other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Headlands Technologies LLC bought a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International during the 3rd quarter worth $27,000. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in Philip Morris International during the second quarter worth about $27,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International in the 3rd quarter worth about $36,000. Spotlight Asset Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the 2nd quarter valued at about $37,000. Finally, Legacy Financial Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the 3rd quarter valued at about $37,000. 79.70% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Philip Morris International Stock Up 0.5 % Shares of Philip Morris International stock traded up $0.41 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $90.05. 1,813,249 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,040,472. The firm has a market cap of $139.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.63. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1 year low of $87.23 and a 1 year high of $101.92. The stocks fifty day moving average is $92.77 and its 200 day moving average is $93.03. Philip Morris International Announces Dividend Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly 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). The business had revenue of $9.05 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.99 billion. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 8.53% and a negative return on equity of 116.29%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.39 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.4 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 21st were issued a $1.30 dividend. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.77%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 20th. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 103.59%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several brokerages have issued reports on PM. Societe Generale raised Philip Morris International from a sell rating to a hold rating and set a $87.50 target price for the company in a research note on Tuesday, February 13th. UBS Group cut shares of Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a sell rating and cut their price objective for the company from $105.00 to $86.50 in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on shares of Philip Morris International from $110.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 29th. Finally, Redburn Atlantic initiated coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, November 16th. They set a neutral rating and a $95.00 price target for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $105.40. Check Out Our Latest Research Report on PM Insider Buying and Selling at Philip Morris International In other Philip Morris International news, insider Wilde Frederic De sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $94.25, for a total value of $942,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 198,447 shares in the company, valued at $18,703,629.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Insiders own 0.15% of the companys stock. 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 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. Mariner LLC increased its stake in AECOM (NYSE:ACM Free Report) by 8.5% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 738,061 shares of the construction companys stock after purchasing an additional 57,865 shares during the period. Mariner LLC owned approximately 0.53% of AECOM worth $61,289,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd bought a new position in AECOM during the first quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Janiczek Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of AECOM in the third quarter worth approximately $28,000. Manchester Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of AECOM in the third quarter worth approximately $38,000. Meitav Investment House Ltd. bought a new position in shares of AECOM in the second quarter worth approximately $42,000. Finally, Headlands Technologies LLC bought a new position in shares of AECOM in the second quarter worth approximately $50,000. 84.79% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get AECOM alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages have recently issued reports on ACM. Robert W. Baird raised their target price on shares of AECOM from $100.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. KeyCorp assumed coverage on AECOM in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. They set an overweight rating and a $104.00 price objective for the company. StockNews.com raised AECOM from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 15th. TheStreet upgraded AECOM from a c+ rating to a b rating in a report on Monday, February 5th. Finally, Barclays raised their price target on AECOM from $90.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, February 13th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, AECOM presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $101.33. AECOM Trading Up 0.2 % AECOM stock traded up $0.17 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $88.02. The companys stock had a trading volume of 121,421 shares, compared to its average volume of 767,918. The company has a 50 day moving average of $90.06 and a 200-day moving average of $86.30. The stock has a market cap of $11.97 billion, a PE ratio of 195.25, a P/E/G ratio of 1.34 and a beta of 1.24. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a current ratio of 1.05. AECOM has a one year low of $74.40 and a one year high of $94.01. AECOM (NYSE:ACM Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The construction company reported $1.05 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.92 by $0.13. AECOM had a return on equity of 21.45% and a net margin of 0.42%. The business had revenue of $3.90 billion during the quarter. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.86 earnings per share. On average, research analysts anticipate that AECOM will post 4.4 EPS for the current year. AECOM declared that its board has authorized a share buyback program on Monday, November 13th that authorizes the company to buyback $1.00 billion in outstanding shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the construction company to reacquire up to 8.3% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are usually a sign that the companys board believes its stock is undervalued. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, CEO Troy Rudd sold 25,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.76, for a total transaction of $2,319,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 259,168 shares in the company, valued at approximately $24,040,423.68. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, President Lara Poloni sold 30,692 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.50, for a total value of $2,839,010.00. Following the transaction, the president now directly owns 53,752 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,972,060. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Troy Rudd sold 25,000 shares of AECOM stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, December 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.76, for a total value of $2,319,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 259,168 shares of the companys stock, valued at $24,040,423.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.42% of the companys stock. AECOM Company Profile (Free Report) AECOM, together with its subsidiaries, provides professional infrastructure consulting services worldwide. It operates in three segments: Americas, International, and AECOM Capital. The company offers planning, consulting, architectural and engineering design, construction and program management, and investment and development services to public and private clients. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ACM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for AECOM (NYSE:ACM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for AECOM Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AECOM and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RI lessened its holdings in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Free Report) by 73.9% in the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 6,340 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 17,921 shares during the quarter. Citizens Financial Group Inc. RIs holdings in Marsh & McLennan Companies were worth $1,207,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Altshuler Shaham Ltd acquired a new position in Marsh & McLennan Companies in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $27,000. OFI Invest Asset Management acquired a new position in Marsh & McLennan Companies in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $28,000. RVW Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $32,000. Jones Financial Companies Lllp raised its holdings in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies by 40.5% in the 2nd quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 184 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 53 shares in the last quarter. Finally, FSC Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $39,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.64% of the companys stock. Get Marsh & McLennan Companies alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts recently commented on MMC shares. TD Cowen assumed coverage on Marsh & McLennan Companies in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. They set a market perform rating and a $189.00 price target on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their price target on Marsh & McLennan Companies from $186.00 to $185.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Marsh & McLennan Companies from a buy rating to a sell rating and dropped their price objective for the stock from $215.00 to $185.00 in a research note on Monday, January 8th. StockNews.com downgraded Marsh & McLennan Companies from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 19th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price target on Marsh & McLennan Companies from $200.00 to $208.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Marsh & McLennan Companies presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $202.71. Marsh & McLennan Companies Stock Down 0.8 % Shares of NYSE:MMC traded down $1.63 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $199.26. The company had a trading volume of 370,590 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,789,470. The company has a quick ratio of 1.10, a current ratio of 1.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $193.56 and its 200 day moving average price is $193.85. The stock has a market cap of $97.97 billion, a PE ratio of 26.54, a P/E/G ratio of 3.58 and a beta of 0.90. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $151.86 and a 1-year high of $202.81. Marsh & McLennan Companies (NYSE:MMC Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The financial services provider reported $1.68 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.63 by $0.05. The firm 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%. The businesss revenue was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.47 earnings per share. Research analysts forecast that Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. will post 8.56 EPS for the current fiscal year. Marsh & McLennan Companies Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, January 25th were given a dividend of $0.71 per share. This represents a $2.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.43%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, January 24th. Marsh & McLennan Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 37.72%. About Marsh & McLennan Companies (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 through Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting segments. 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. Featured Stories 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. MCIA Inc cut its stake in shares of Rio Tinto Group (NYSE:RIO Free Report) by 46.6% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 11,470 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 10,005 shares during the period. MCIA Incs holdings in Rio Tinto Group were worth $751,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in RIO. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its stake in Rio Tinto Group by 23.9% in the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 61,529 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $4,947,000 after acquiring an additional 11,879 shares during the period. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC boosted its position in shares of Rio Tinto Group by 33.8% during the first quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 6,549 shares of the mining companys stock worth $527,000 after buying an additional 1,654 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in Rio Tinto Group by 19.4% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 1,539,846 shares of the mining companys stock worth $123,803,000 after acquiring an additional 250,480 shares in the last quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. acquired a new position in Rio Tinto Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $499,000. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its position in Rio Tinto Group by 141.7% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 13,466 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,083,000 after purchasing an additional 7,894 shares during the last quarter. 10.03% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Rio Tinto Group alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades RIO has been the subject of several recent research reports. BNP Paribas raised Rio Tinto Group from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 5th. StockNews.com lowered Rio Tinto Group from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, November 10th. The Goldman Sachs Group assumed coverage on Rio Tinto Group in a research note on Friday, January 12th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Liberum Capital upgraded Rio Tinto Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 1st. Finally, Barclays upgraded Rio Tinto Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 24th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $72.00. Rio Tinto Group Price Performance Shares of RIO stock traded down $0.64 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $65.28. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,199,740 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,696,443. Rio Tinto Group has a 52 week low of $58.27 and a 52 week high of $75.30. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a current ratio of 1.99. The business has a fifty day moving average of $70.62 and a 200-day moving average of $66.53. Rio Tinto Group Profile (Free Report) Rio Tinto Group engages in exploring, mining, and processing mineral resources worldwide. The company operates through Iron Ore, Aluminium, Copper, and Minerals Segments. It offers aluminum, copper, iron ore, diamonds, gold, borates, titanium dioxide, salt, silver, molybdenum, and lithium. The company also owns and operates open pit and underground mines, refineries, smelters, and concentrator facilities, as well as power stations, research, and service facilities. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RIO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Rio Tinto Group (NYSE:RIO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Rio Tinto Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rio Tinto Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. 3M (NYSE: MMM), American States Water Company (NYSE: AWR), and Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) may not have much in common as companies. But as investments, all three companies are Dividend Kings that have paid and raised their payouts for at least 60 years -- making them some of the longest-tenured members of the group. However, all three stocks have also lost value over the last year, while the S&P 500 is up 22.7%. A single-digit dividend yield isn't going to be that appealing if a stock is underperforming by that many percentage points. Yet there are reasons to be optimistic about each company. Here's why all three dividend stocks look like a good value for 2024 and beyond. Image source: Getty Images. There's a value case for 3M stock Lee Samaha (3M): The industrial giant's stock will divide investors. However, one thing that can't be denied is the attractiveness of its current 6.5% dividend yield. While the sustainability of the dividend payout is subject to question due to its need to meet multibillion-dollar cash calls as part of legal settlements, it's worth noting that 3M is still a company generating large amounts of cash. In fact, it's $6.3 billion in free cash flow generation in 2023 is one of the reasons why an analyst at heavyweight Wall Street company JPMorgan raised the price target on the stock recently. Meanwhile, management's restructuring plan will take $700 million to $900 million out of costs by the end of 2025. These kinds of figures make 3M attractive for income-seeking and value investors. Suppose management's restructuring plan works and margin expansion follows alongside a cyclical return to growth in its key end markets, which include automotive, consumer electronics, and consumer products. In that case, 3M's stock price will prove to be undervalued right now. For that to happen, management might need to make some changes to its business model or extend its restructuring actions beyond 2024. Still, as long as 3M can continue to generate substantial cash flow, it should be able to muddle through a difficult period of restructuring, weak end markets, and cash calls from legal settlements. That will give management the time and opportunity to enact the changes necessary to get the company back on track. Story continues Water your portfolio with American States Water and watch your passive income grow Scott Levine (American States Water): Attaining Dividend King status is no simple feat. Going to the head of the class and achieving the royal rank of the longest-tenured Dividend King, as American States Water has done, is an accomplishment well worth substantial recognition. For 69 consecutive years, this water utility stock has raised its distribution, and its reliable business model suggests that the tide of dividends it has returned to investors won't ebb anytime soon. For income investors seeking the reliability of a Dividend King, American States Water and its 2.2% forward-yielding dividend deserve considerable attention. While American States Water has increased its dividend for 69 straight years, it has, in fact, paid dividends every year going back to 1931. How has it accomplished such a regal feat? The company operates primarily as a regulated water utility. As such, it provides water and wastewater services to more than 264,000 customers located throughout California. It may not be the most thrilling of businesses, but what it lacks in excitement, it makes up for in its steady nature. Because its bread-and-butter business (it also operates a small electric utility subsidiary) is regulated water utility services, the company is guaranteed certain rates of return. Thus, management has clear foresight into future cash flow, allowing it to plan accordingly for capital expenditures, such as improvements to its infrastructure as well as dividends. American States Water's dividend might now have the allure of high-yield dividend stocks, but cautious investors will find the stock especially appealing. The company's 69-year history of raising its dividend doesn't guarantee that another 69 years of similar raises are coming down the pike. Still, it's certainly a good indication that rewarding shareholders is ingrained in the company's culture. Moreover, the company's conservative payout ratio, averaging 57% over the past five years, suggests that management isn't willing to jeopardize the company's financial well-being for the sake of placating shareholders. Coke just raised its dividend to a record high Daniel Foelber (Coca-Cola): Investors gravitate to Dividend Kings for their consistency. And while there have been better-performing stocks than Coca-Cola, the beverage giant is the perfect Dividend King when looking strictly at the dividend. Around the same time every year, investors have been able to count on Coke to announce a dividend raise. Coke has gotten so precise that it has announced a dividend raise sometime between Feb. 15 and Feb. 20 every year for the last five years. The recent announcement came on Feb. 15 when Coke declared its 62nd consecutive annual dividend increase, this time bumping the payout by 5.4% from $1.84 per year to $1.94 per share -- good for a forward yield of 3.3%. The size of Coke's dividend raise tells you a lot about how the business is doing. For example, raises were fairly large in the mid-2010s. But there was a stretch in the late 2010s and early 2020s when Coke implemented a mere one cent per share per quarter raises. Using the size of dividend raises as a litmus test for the strength of the business doesn't work for all companies, but it has been a useful gauge for Coke. The company takes its dividend very seriously and is only going to make a substantial raise if it thinks it can afford it and build on top of it in the future. After all, Coke pays the third-highest dividends out of any consumer staples company. It paid $7.95 billion in dividends over the last 12 months, behind only Philip Morris at $7.96 billion and Procter & Gamble at $9.09 billion. It's a lot to ask a company to fund an after-tax bill that high year in and year out, let alone make that bill increasingly higher. And yet, that is what Coke investors have to expect and will continue to expect. The best Dividend Kings are able to grow their earnings at least as much as their dividends. That way, dividends don't deplete cash reserves on the balance sheet or lead a company to take on debt. The last year was one of the best Coke has had in a while. Sales and earnings growth are back. Operating margins are strong, clocking in at a whopping 28.3%. That's an incredibly high margin for a company that sells a physical product. Coke's margins are a key reason why it can afford its dividend. Off $45.75 billion in trailing-12-month revenue, it has earned $10.7 billion in net income, more than enough to afford the $7.95 billion it paid in dividends. Coke's business and dividend look solid, and the price-to-earnings ratio is 24 -- not bad for such a high-quality business. This is the sweet spot for Coke, and investors would do well to take advantage of the opportunity. Should you invest $1,000 in 3M right now? Before you buy stock in 3M, 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 3M 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 20, 2024 JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Daniel Foelber has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Lee Samaha has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Scott Levine has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase. The Motley Fool recommends 3M and Philip Morris International. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. If You Like 3M Then You Will Love These 2 Dividend Kings was originally published by The Motley Fool Motley Fool Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. (NYSE:HHH Free Report) in the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor bought 32,335 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,397,000. Motley Fool Asset Management LLC owned about 0.06% of Howard Hughes as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of HHH. Baillie Gifford & Co. purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes in the 3rd quarter worth about $188,891,000. Principal Financial Group Inc. purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes in the 3rd quarter worth about $156,887,000. New South Capital Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes in the 3rd quarter worth about $47,706,000. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes in the 3rd quarter worth about $44,577,000. Finally, Jennison Associates LLC purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes in the 3rd quarter worth about $34,301,000. 94.60% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Howard Hughes alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, TheStreet raised Howard Hughes from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a research report on Friday, December 22nd. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider James Carman sold 700 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.31, for a total transaction of $59,717.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 7,087 shares in the company, valued at approximately $604,591.97. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other Howard Hughes news, Director Pershing Square Capital Manage acquired 41,290 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, November 24th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $73.45 per share, for a total transaction of $3,032,750.50. Following the transaction, the director now owns 18,567,186 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,363,759,811.70. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider James Carman sold 700 shares of Howard Hughes stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $85.31, for a total value of $59,717.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 7,087 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $604,591.97. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders purchased 117,465 shares of company stock worth $8,636,634 and sold 2,608 shares worth $215,112. 33.00% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Howard Hughes Stock Up 0.0 % Shares of HHH stock traded up $0.02 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $76.44. The stock had a trading volume of 22,508 shares, compared to its average volume of 182,416. The company has a current ratio of 1.63, a quick ratio of 1.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.72. The company has a market capitalization of $3.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -7.11 and a beta of 1.51. Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. has a one year low of $65.42 and a one year high of $86.72. The company has a 50 day moving average of $81.49. Howard Hughes Company Profile (Free Report) Howard Hughes Holdings Inc owns, manages, and develops commercial, residential, and mixed-use properties in the United States. It operates through four segments: Operating Assets; Master Planned Communities (MPCs); Seaport; and Strategic Developments. The Operating Assets segment owns retail, office, multi-family, hospitality, and other operating properties and investments primarily located in Houston, Texas; Columbia, Maryland; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Honolulu, Hawaii. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Howard Hughes Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Howard Hughes and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Motley Fool Asset Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL Free Report) by 8.0% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 15,585 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 1,148 shares during the quarter. Motley Fool Asset Management LLCs holdings in Aflac were worth $1,196,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. CoreFirst Bank & Trust acquired a new position in shares of Aflac during the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. Studio Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Aflac during the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. Missouri Trust & Investment Co acquired a new position in shares of Aflac during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Impact Partnership Wealth LLC boosted its stake in shares of Aflac by 471.4% during the 3rd quarter. Impact Partnership Wealth LLC now owns 400 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 330 shares during the period. Finally, Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd bought a new position in shares of Aflac during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $33,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 66.75% of the companys stock. Get Aflac alerts: Insider Activity In other news, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 30,493 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $79.91, for a total transaction of $2,436,695.63. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 86,090 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,879,451.90. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Aflac news, CFO Steven Kent Beaver sold 3,114 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.71, for a total value of $257,558.94. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 20,914 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,729,796.94. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 30,493 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $79.91, for a total value of $2,436,695.63. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 86,090 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,879,451.90. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock. Aflac Price Performance Shares of NYSE:AFL traded up $0.51 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $79.29. 482,641 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,226,711. The companys 50 day moving average is $81.55 and its two-hundred day moving average is $79.46. The firm has a market capitalization of $46.34 billion, a PE ratio of 10.16, a PEG ratio of 2.09 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a quick ratio of 0.08, a current ratio of 0.08 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. Aflac Incorporated has a 52 week low of $60.20 and a 52 week high of $86.20. Aflac (NYSE:AFL Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The financial services provider reported $1.25 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.47 by ($0.22). The company had revenue of $3.78 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.44 billion. Aflac had a net margin of 24.92% and a return on equity of 17.59%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.29 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.43 earnings per share for the current year. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts have recently commented on the company. UBS Group lifted their target price on Aflac from $80.00 to $84.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 10th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on Aflac from $61.00 to $75.00 and gave the stock a sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 9th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Aflac from $75.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 15th. Evercore ISI downgraded Aflac from an in-line rating to an underperform rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $76.00 to $78.00 in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Finally, Raymond James lifted their target price on Aflac from $83.00 to $88.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, February 2nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Aflac currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $80.36. Read Our Latest Stock Report on AFL Aflac Profile (Free Report) Aflac Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, provides supplemental health and life insurance products. It operates in two segments, Aflac Japan and Aflac U.S. The Aflac Japan segment offers cancer, medical, nursing care, work leave, GIFT, and whole and term life insurance products, as well as WAYS and child endowment plans under saving type insurance products in Japan. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Aflac Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Aflac and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mystic Asset Management Inc. lowered its stake in shares of Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM Free Report) by 0.5% during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 22,340 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 110 shares during the quarter. Exxon Mobil comprises approximately 1.5% of Mystic Asset Management Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 17th biggest position. Mystic Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Exxon Mobil were worth $2,627,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in XOM. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC grew its position in Exxon Mobil by 17.4% during the first quarter. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC now owns 7,909 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $680,000 after buying an additional 1,173 shares in the last quarter. Retirement Income Solutions Inc bought a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the first quarter worth $275,000. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P lifted its stake in Exxon Mobil by 318.8% during the first quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 17,163 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,417,000 after purchasing an additional 13,065 shares during the last quarter. Ergoteles LLC lifted its stake in Exxon Mobil by 95.6% during the first quarter. Ergoteles LLC now owns 15,843 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,308,000 after purchasing an additional 7,744 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bridgefront Capital LLC bought a new stake in Exxon Mobil during the first quarter worth $237,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 58.53% of the companys stock. Get Exxon Mobil alerts: Exxon Mobil Trading Up 1.8 % Exxon Mobil stock traded up $1.90 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $104.65. 13,130,654 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 19,056,803. The company has a quick ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.48 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $101.18 and its 200 day simple moving average is $106.20. Exxon Mobil Co. has a twelve month low of $95.77 and a twelve month high of $120.70. The firm has a market capitalization of $414.72 billion, a PE ratio of 11.60, a PEG ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 0.97. Exxon Mobil Dividend Announcement Exxon Mobil ( NYSE:XOM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $2.48 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.20 by $0.28. Exxon Mobil had a return on equity of 18.51% and a net margin of 10.45%. The firm had revenue of $84.34 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $90.03 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $3.40 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 11.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts predict that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 9.25 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 11th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.95 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, February 13th. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.63%. Exxon Mobils payout ratio is currently 42.74%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades XOM has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $120.00 target price on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Erste Group Bank restated a hold rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research note on Friday, December 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price target on Exxon Mobil from $134.00 to $127.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, December 8th. TD Cowen upgraded Exxon Mobil from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $115.00 price target for the company in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. Finally, Redburn Atlantic upgraded Exxon Mobil from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price target for the company from $116.00 to $119.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 9th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $127.53. Read Our Latest Analysis on Exxon Mobil Insiders Place Their Bets In other Exxon Mobil news, Director Jeffrey W. Ubben sold 2,077,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $104.06, for a total transaction of $216,132,620.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 13,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,352,780. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, Director Jeffrey W. Ubben sold 2,077,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $104.06, for a total value of $216,132,620.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 13,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,352,780. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, VP Leonard M. Fox sold 12,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, December 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $102.65, for a total value of $1,231,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 220,678 shares of the companys stock, valued at $22,652,596.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.04% of the companys stock. About Exxon Mobil (Free Report) Exxon Mobil Corporation engages in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States and internationally. It operates through Upstream, Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding XOM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Exxon Mobil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Exxon Mobil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM Get Free Report) updated its FY24 earnings guidance on Wednesday. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $6.43-6.55 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $6.41. Philip Morris International Price Performance Shares of PM stock traded up $0.41 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $90.05. 1,739,764 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,037,808. The stocks 50-day moving average is $92.77 and its 200-day moving average is $93.03. The stock has a market cap of $139.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.63. Philip Morris International has a 52 week low of $87.23 and a 52 week high of $101.92. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM Get Free Report) last released its quarterly 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). The business had revenue of $9.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.99 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 116.29% and a net margin of 8.53%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.39 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Philip Morris International will post 6.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement Analysts Set New Price Targets The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, January 10th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 21st were given a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, December 20th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.77%. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio is presently 103.59%. PM has been the topic of several recent research reports. UBS Group lowered Philip Morris International from a buy rating to a sell rating and cut their price target for the stock from $105.00 to $86.50 in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Redburn Atlantic began coverage on Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, November 16th. They issued a neutral rating and a $95.00 price target for the company. Societe Generale upgraded Philip Morris International from a sell rating to a hold rating and set a $87.50 target price for the company in a research report on Tuesday, February 13th. Finally, 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. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $105.40. Get Our Latest Report on Philip Morris International Insider Activity at Philip Morris International In other news, insider Wilde Frederic De sold 10,000 shares of the companys 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 owns 198,447 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,703,629.75. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.15% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. increased its stake in Philip Morris International by 1.1% during the first quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. now owns 26,141 shares of the companys stock worth $2,456,000 after purchasing an additional 281 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. increased its stake in Philip Morris International by 35.6% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 4,939 shares of the companys stock valued at $463,000 after purchasing an additional 1,296 shares during the last quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 24.7% in the first quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 3,065 shares of the companys stock valued at $288,000 after acquiring an additional 608 shares during the period. Covestor Ltd boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 54.9% in the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 525 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after acquiring an additional 186 shares during the period. Finally, Mather Group LLC. lifted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 14.7% during the first quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 8,987 shares of the companys stock worth $844,000 after purchasing an additional 1,154 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.70% of the companys stock. Philip Morris International Company Profile (Get 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. Patriot Financial Partners GP LP lowered its position in shares of Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:PB Free Report) by 47.2% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 111,800 shares of the banks stock after selling 100,000 shares during the quarter. Prosperity Bancshares makes up approximately 2.9% of Patriot Financial Partners GP LPs holdings, making the stock its 9th biggest holding. Patriot Financial Partners GP LP owned approximately 0.12% of Prosperity Bancshares worth $6,102,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. State of Wyoming raised its stake in shares of Prosperity Bancshares by 25.1% in the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 891 shares of the banks stock valued at $50,000 after acquiring an additional 179 shares during the period. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. increased its stake in Prosperity Bancshares by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 5,935 shares of the banks stock worth $411,000 after buying an additional 181 shares during the period. Spire Wealth Management increased its stake in Prosperity Bancshares by 17.7% during the 3rd quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 1,290 shares of the banks stock worth $70,000 after buying an additional 194 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its stake in Prosperity Bancshares by 1.8% during the 4th quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 13,229 shares of the banks stock worth $961,000 after buying an additional 229 shares during the period. Finally, CFO4Life Group LLC increased its stake in Prosperity Bancshares by 0.9% during the 3rd quarter. CFO4Life Group LLC now owns 30,095 shares of the banks stock worth $1,643,000 after buying an additional 280 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.70% of the companys stock. Get Prosperity Bancshares alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, Director L. Jack Lord sold 2,100 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $62.94, for a total value of $132,174.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 31,025 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,952,713.50. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 4.20% of the companys stock. Prosperity Bancshares Stock Performance Shares of PB stock traded down $0.08 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $62.67. 286,934 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 668,628. Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. has a 12 month low of $49.60 and a 12 month high of $74.94. The company has a market cap of $5.87 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.85, a PEG ratio of 1.26 and a beta of 0.95. The companys 50 day moving average price is $65.28 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $59.65. Prosperity Bancshares (NYSE:PB Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The bank reported $1.19 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.15 by $0.04. Prosperity Bancshares had a net margin of 26.24% and a return on equity of 6.62%. The company had revenue of $413.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $279.34 million. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.51 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. will post 5.05 earnings per share for the current year. Prosperity Bancshares Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Investors of record on Friday, March 15th will be issued a $0.56 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 14th. This represents a $2.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.57%. Prosperity Bancsharess payout ratio is currently 49.45%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have weighed in on PB shares. Stephens decreased their price objective on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $64.00 to $61.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 26th. Wedbush decreased their price objective on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $58.00 to $55.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 26th. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $65.00 to $71.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. Truist Financial raised their price objective on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $61.00 to $75.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, December 15th. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Prosperity Bancshares to a sell rating in a report on Thursday, November 2nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating, seven have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Prosperity Bancshares has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $70.19. Read Our Latest Research Report on PB Prosperity Bancshares Profile (Free Report) Prosperity Bancshares, Inc operates as bank holding company for the Prosperity Bank that provides financial products and services to businesses and consumers. It accepts various deposit products, such as demand, savings, money market, and time accounts, as well as and certificates of deposit. The company also offers 1-4 family residential mortgage, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, commercial and industrial, agricultural, and non-real estate agricultural loans, as well as construction, land development, and other land loans; consumer loans, including automobile, recreational vehicle, boat, home improvement, personal, and deposit account collateralized loans; and consumer durables and home equity loans, as well as loans for working capital, business expansion, and purchase of equipment and machinery. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:PB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Prosperity Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Prosperity Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL Free Report) Investment analysts at Zacks Research lifted their Q1 2024 EPS estimates for Royal Caribbean Cruises in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday, February 15th. Zacks Research analyst M. Kaushik now anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of $1.12 for the quarter, up from their prior forecast of $0.67. The consensus estimate for Royal Caribbean Cruises current full-year earnings is $9.81 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Royal Caribbean Cruises Q3 2024 earnings at $4.45 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $1.54 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $9.50 EPS and Q3 2025 earnings at $4.41 EPS. Get Royal Caribbean Cruises alerts: RCL has been the subject of several other research reports. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on Royal Caribbean Cruises from $100.00 to $115.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. Argus raised their price objective on Royal Caribbean Cruises from $95.00 to $142.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, December 21st. Susquehanna upped their price target on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $120.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $141.00 to $143.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 19th. Finally, Truist Financial reiterated a buy rating and set a $134.00 price target on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in a report on Monday, December 4th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Royal Caribbean Cruises currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $128.36. Royal Caribbean Cruises Stock Performance Shares of RCL stock opened at $115.16 on Monday. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $123.01 and a 200 day moving average of $106.44. Royal Caribbean Cruises has a 52 week low of $59.37 and a 52 week high of $133.77. The firm has a market capitalization of $29.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.51, a PEG ratio of 0.44 and a beta of 2.54. The company has a quick ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 0.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.03. Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The company reported $1.25 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.13 by $0.12. Royal Caribbean Cruises had a net margin of 12.22% and a return on equity of 45.55%. The business had revenue of $3.33 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.36 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned ($1.12) earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 28.0% on a year-over-year basis. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Royal Caribbean Cruises Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its position in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 0.7% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 1,533,566 shares of the companys stock valued at $141,303,000 after buying an additional 10,095 shares during the period. National Bank of Canada FI raised its stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 52.7% during the 3rd quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 169,500 shares of the companys stock worth $15,535,000 after acquiring an additional 58,481 shares in the last quarter. Chai Trust Co. LLC bought a new position in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $15,561,000. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 476.1% during the 3rd quarter. Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. now owns 470,816 shares of the companys stock worth $43,381,000 after acquiring an additional 389,095 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mane Global Capital Management LP bought a new position in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $24,204,000. 75.64% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Insider Activity at Royal Caribbean Cruises In other Royal Caribbean Cruises news, Director Arne Alexander Wilhelmsen sold 284,766 shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises stock in a transaction on Thursday, December 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $121.73, for a total value of $34,664,565.18. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 19,167,507 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,333,260,627.11. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, Director Arne Alexander Wilhelmsen sold 284,766 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $121.73, for a total value of $34,664,565.18. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 19,167,507 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,333,260,627.11. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Harri U. Kulovaara sold 24,707 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $106.90, for a total transaction of $2,641,178.30. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 33,650 shares in the company, valued at $3,597,185. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 636,460 shares of company stock worth $76,557,183. 8.70% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. About Royal Caribbean Cruises (Get Free Report) Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. operates as a cruise company worldwide. The company operates cruises under the Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands, which comprise a range of itineraries. As of February 13, 2023, it operated 64 ships. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Royal Caribbean Cruises Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Royal Caribbean Cruises and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rice Partnership LLC grew its holdings in Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI Free Report) by 40.6% in the third quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 5,416 shares of the communications equipment providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,563 shares during the period. Rice Partnership LLCs holdings in Motorola Solutions were worth $1,474,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions in the 4th quarter worth about $470,994,000. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions in the 2nd quarter worth about $197,322,000. Zurich Insurance Group Ltd FI grew its holdings in shares of Motorola Solutions by 527.0% in the 2nd quarter. Zurich Insurance Group Ltd FI now owns 361,210 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $105,936,000 after purchasing an additional 303,604 shares during the last quarter. First Trust Advisors LP grew its holdings in shares of Motorola Solutions by 216.7% in the 1st quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 435,149 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $105,393,000 after purchasing an additional 297,740 shares during the last quarter. Finally, J.P. Morgan Private Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions in the 3rd quarter worth about $77,388,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.37% of the companys stock. Get Motorola Solutions alerts: Motorola Solutions Trading Up 0.1 % Shares of NYSE MSI traded up $0.38 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $323.42. The companys stock had a trading volume of 213,482 shares, compared to its average volume of 644,506. The stock has a market cap of $53.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.97 and a beta of 0.92. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.37, a current ratio of 1.00 and a quick ratio of 0.85. Motorola Solutions, Inc. has a one year low of $255.85 and a one year high of $333.00. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $318.77 and its 200-day simple moving average is $301.33. Analyst Ratings Changes Motorola Solutions ( NYSE:MSI Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The communications equipment provider reported $3.90 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.63 by $0.27. The business had revenue of $2.85 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.82 billion. Motorola Solutions had a net margin of 17.12% and a return on equity of 441.65%. Motorola Solutionss revenue for the quarter was up 5.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company posted $3.38 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Motorola Solutions, Inc. will post 11.7 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. A number of brokerages have commented on MSI. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Motorola Solutions from $333.00 to $352.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft began coverage on shares of Motorola Solutions in a report on Friday, January 19th. They set a buy rating and a $350.00 price objective on the stock. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Motorola Solutions in a report on Friday, February 9th. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Motorola Solutions from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 12th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Motorola Solutions presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $328.29. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on MSI Motorola Solutions Company Profile (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 Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MSI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI Free Report). 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. Rodgers Brothers Inc. trimmed its holdings in shares of Science Applications International Co. (NYSE:SAIC Free Report) by 11.7% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 6,585 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 875 shares during the quarter. Rodgers Brothers Inc.s holdings in Science Applications International were worth $695,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of SAIC. Quarry LP increased its position in Science Applications International by 100.0% during the second quarter. Quarry LP now owns 218 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 109 shares during the last quarter. Gradient Investments LLC increased its position in Science Applications International by 1,104.8% during the third quarter. Gradient Investments LLC now owns 253 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 232 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC boosted its holdings in Science Applications International by 84.8% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 390 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $44,000 after acquiring an additional 179 shares during the period. Missouri Trust & Investment Co bought a new stake in Science Applications International during the second quarter valued at about $44,000. Finally, WFA of San Diego LLC bought a new stake in Science Applications International during the second quarter valued at about $56,000. 75.31% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Science Applications International alerts: Insider Activity at Science Applications International In related news, Director Donna S. Morea sold 1,209 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.11, for a total value of $151,257.99. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 31,834 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,982,751.74. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Science Applications International news, Director Donna S. Morea sold 1,209 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, January 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.11, for a total transaction of $151,257.99. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 31,834 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,982,751.74. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Robert S. Genter sold 7,024 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.00, for a total transaction of $878,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 48,204 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,025,500. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 12,233 shares of company stock valued at $1,539,058 over the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes SAIC has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Truist Financial upped their price target on shares of Science Applications International from $115.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, December 5th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Science Applications International from $116.00 to $141.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 5th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut shares of Science Applications International from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and increased their target price for the company from $130.00 to $142.00 in a research note on Tuesday, December 5th. Finally, StockNews.com cut shares of Science Applications International from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 5th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $125.33. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on SAIC Science Applications International Price Performance Shares of NYSE SAIC traded up $0.34 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $135.23. 28,091 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 248,830. The company has a market cap of $7.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.27 and a beta of 0.71. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $127.95 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $119.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 1.08 and a current ratio of 1.13. Science Applications International Co. has a twelve month low of $95.43 and a twelve month high of $136.62. Science Applications International (NYSE:SAIC Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, December 4th. The information technology services provider reported $2.27 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.69 by $0.58. The company had revenue of $1.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.79 billion. Science Applications International had a net margin of 6.67% and a return on equity of 26.14%. The companys revenue was down .7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.90 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that Science Applications International Co. will post 7.88 EPS for the current fiscal year. Science Applications International Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, January 26th. Investors of record on Friday, January 12th were issued a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.09%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, January 11th. Science Applications Internationals dividend payout ratio is currently 15.66%. Science Applications International Company Profile (Free Report) Science Applications International Corporation provides technical, engineering, and enterprise information technology (IT) services primarily in the United States. The company's offerings include engineering; technology integration; IT modernization; maintenance of ground and maritime systems; logistics; training and simulation; operation and program support services; and end-to-end services, such as design, development, integration, deployment, management and operations, sustainment, and security of its customers' IT infrastructure, as well as cloud migration, managed services, infrastructure modernization, and enterprise IT-as-a-service solutions; and data management platform solutions. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SAIC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Science Applications International Co. (NYSE:SAIC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Science Applications International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Science Applications International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Stelac Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWM Free Report) in the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund acquired 4,979 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $103,000. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. BlackRock Inc. grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 2,867.8% in the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 847,152 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $16,952,000 after purchasing an additional 818,607 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 65.8% in the 2nd quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 518,780 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $10,381,000 after purchasing an additional 205,894 shares during the period. UBS Group AG grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 20.2% in the 1st quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 516,751 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $11,456,000 after purchasing an additional 86,679 shares during the period. Hsbc Holdings PLC grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF by 42.1% in the 2nd quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 385,929 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $7,722,000 after purchasing an additional 114,300 shares during the period. Finally, Jane Street Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $7,761,000. 78.84% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF alerts: iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Price Performance Shares of EWM traded down $0.07 on Wednesday, hitting $21.59. The companys stock had a trading volume of 63,264 shares, compared to its average volume of 381,115. The firms fifty day moving average price is $21.22 and its 200-day moving average price is $21.08. iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF has a fifty-two week low of $19.84 and a fifty-two week high of $22.55. About iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Malaysia Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Malaysian market, as measured by the MSCI Malaysia Index (the Index). Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EWM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF (NYSEARCA:EWM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Motley Fool Asset Management LLC grew its stake in shares of The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW Free Report) by 8.0% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 46,929 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 3,493 shares during the period. Motley Fool Asset Management LLCs holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $2,576,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Signet Financial Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Signet Financial Management LLC now owns 49,378 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,111,000 after purchasing an additional 139 shares during the period. Main Street Financial Solutions LLC grew its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 2.6% during the 2nd quarter. Main Street Financial Solutions LLC now owns 6,475 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $367,000 after purchasing an additional 162 shares during the period. Investment Advisory Services Inc. TX ADV boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 0.5% in the 4th quarter. Investment Advisory Services Inc. TX ADV now owns 32,642 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,718,000 after acquiring an additional 164 shares during the period. Wunderlich Capital Managemnt boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 0.4% in the 2nd quarter. Wunderlich Capital Managemnt now owns 38,856 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,202,000 after acquiring an additional 172 shares during the period. Finally, United Services Automobile Association boosted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter. United Services Automobile Association now owns 34,807 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,973,000 after acquiring an additional 173 shares during the period. 81.61% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Charles Schwab alerts: Charles Schwab Stock Performance Shares of SCHW stock traded up $0.04 on Wednesday, hitting $63.62. 1,482,917 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 8,074,425. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87, a current ratio of 0.66 and a quick ratio of 0.66. The company has a market capitalization of $112.71 billion, a PE ratio of 25.00, a PEG ratio of 3.40 and a beta of 0.99. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 1-year low of $45.00 and a 1-year high of $81.32. The companys fifty day moving average is $65.61 and its 200 day moving average is $59.95. Charles Schwab Announces Dividend Charles Schwab ( NYSE:SCHW Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, January 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.68 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.64 by $0.04. Charles Schwab had a return on equity of 22.07% and a net margin of 26.90%. The firm had revenue of $4.46 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.49 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.07 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 18.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts predict that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, February 23rd. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th will be given a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.57%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 8th. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio is presently 39.37%. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Director Carolyn Schwab-Pomerantz sold 12,208 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.28, for a total value of $748,106.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 1,722,400 shares of the companys stock, valued at $105,548,672. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CFO Peter B. Crawford sold 4,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.56, for a total transaction of $242,240.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 41,611 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,519,962.16. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, Director Carolyn Schwab-Pomerantz sold 12,208 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.28, for a total value of $748,106.24. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 1,722,400 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $105,548,672. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 122,986 shares of company stock valued at $7,878,217 over the last three months. Company insiders own 6.60% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms have weighed in on SCHW. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $71.00 price target (up previously from $70.00) on shares of Charles Schwab in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Barclays upped their price target on Charles Schwab from $64.00 to $68.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut Charles Schwab from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and decreased their price target for the stock from $75.00 to $70.00 in a 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 report on Thursday, January 18th. Finally, TD Cowen initiated coverage on Charles Schwab in a report on Thursday, January 4th. They issued a market perform rating and a $77.00 price target for the company. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $69.92. View Our Latest Report on SCHW About Charles Schwab (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 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. Philip Ho / Shutterstock.com A countrys retirement system should be designed to create financial security for retired citizens by providing a guaranteed and reasonable amount of income for life. Unfortunately, not all countries meet that ideal and some fall shorter than others. Find Out: Retirement Planning: How Much the Average Person 65 and Older Spends Monthly Read More: Do This To Earn Guaranteed Growth on Your Retirement Savings (With No Risk to Your Investment) To find the countries with the best retirement systems and how they qualify as such, GOBankingRates looked at data published by the 2023 Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index. The index compares 47 different retirement income systems across the globe in reference to adequacy, sustainability and integrity, and assigns them each a letter grade from A to E to reflect their score. Taking that data into account, here are the three countries with the best retirement systems in descending order, and a review of the United States at the end. Borisb17 / iStock.com Netherlands Grade: A Overall index value: 85.0 Adequacy sub-index: 85.6 Sustainability sub-index: 82.4 Integrity sub-index: 87.7 Ranking analysis: The Netherlands took the top spot, even though the country is currently undertaking a significant pension reform. According to the report, the reason for this rating is that, notwithstanding these changes, the system will continue to provide very good benefits, supported by a strong asset base and very sound regulation. Type of retirement system: The Netherlands retirement system is made up of a flat-rate public pension and a quasi-mandatory earnings-related occupational pension linked to industrial agreements. How the system can improve: One factor that would increase the overall index for the country is decreasing the level of household debt. In addition, the county could increase labor force participation for older aged residents as life expectancy rises, and introduce a carers pension credit for those caring for young children. Story continues Trending Now: Top 7 Countries with Zero Income Tax American Retirement: Heres the Cost To Retire Comfortably in Every State by Age Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock.com Iceland Grade: A Overall index value: 84.8 Adequacy sub-index: 85.5 Sustainability sub-index: 83.8 Integrity sub-index: 85.0 Ranking analysis: Iceland takes the No. 2 spot with an overall index value of 84.8. It ranks No. 3 for adequacy and No. 1 for sustainability among the 47 retirement systems. However, its integrity sub-index ranks lower, in eighth place. Type of retirement system: Icelands retirement system is comprised of a state pension with two components: mandatory occupational pension schemes that require both employer and employee contributions and voluntary contributions in government-approved pensions. How the system can improve: One way Icelands retirement system could improve is by reducing the level of household debt as a percentage of the GDP. Save More: 9 Things Frugal Retirees Never Waste Money On LaMiaFotografia / Shutterstock.com Denmark Grade: A Overall index value: 81.3 Adequacy sub-index: 82.5 Sustainability sub-index: 82.5 Integrity sub-index: 77.8 Ranking analysis: Denmark placed No. 3 for overall index value. And although the country placed No. 3 for sustainability and No. 6 for adequacy, it placed No. 19 for integrity. Type of retirement system: Denmarks retirement system is multifaceted, consisting of a public basic pension plan, a means-tested supplementary pension benefit, a fully funded defined contribution plan and mandatory occupational plans. How the system can improve: One way the overall index value for Denmarks retirement system could be increased is for the country to require all pension plans to produce publicly available annual reports. Michael Warren / Getty Images/iStockphoto Where Did the US Rank in the Index? For context, heres how the U.S. ranked among the 47 countries: Grade: C+ Overall index value: 63.0 Adequacy sub-index: 66.7 Sustainability sub-index: 61.1 Integrity sub-index: 59.5 Ranking analysis: The U.S. ranked 24th for adequacy, 16th for sustainability and 41st for integrity. Type of retirement system: The retirement system in the U.S. includes three main pillars: Social Security, employer-sponsored pensions or retirement savings plans and individual savings. How the system can improve: One way the U.S. can improve its retirement system is to further limit access to funds before retirement, which will help reduce pre-retirement leakage. Gabrielle Olya contributed to the reporting for this article. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Countries With the Best Retirement Systems, According To Experts Invesco Ltd. increased its holdings in TopBuild Corp. (NYSE:BLD Free Report) by 3.9% in the third quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 880,779 shares of the construction companys stock after buying an additional 32,771 shares during the quarter. Invesco Ltd. owned about 2.77% of TopBuild worth $221,604,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in BLD. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in TopBuild by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 75,512 shares of the construction companys stock worth $13,697,000 after buying an additional 1,891 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in TopBuild by 26.1% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 1,598 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $290,000 after purchasing an additional 331 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its stake in TopBuild by 3.8% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 4,993 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $998,000 after purchasing an additional 184 shares in the last quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS boosted its stake in TopBuild by 10.5% during the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 12,067 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $2,189,000 after purchasing an additional 1,151 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can boosted its stake in TopBuild by 9.1% during the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 18,097 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $3,375,000 after purchasing an additional 1,503 shares in the last quarter. 95.58% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get TopBuild alerts: TopBuild Price Performance BLD opened at $383.81 on Wednesday. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $372.98 and a 200-day moving average of $307.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $12.19 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.94, a PEG ratio of 1.87 and a beta of 1.67. TopBuild Corp. has a 12-month low of $184.50 and a 12-month high of $403.34. The company has a quick ratio of 2.02, a current ratio of 2.50 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. Insider Activity Analyst Ratings Changes In other news, CEO Robert M. Buck sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $374.60, for a total value of $936,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 66,830 shares in the company, valued at $25,034,518. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . In related news, CEO Robert M. Buck sold 4,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $296.02, for a total transaction of $1,332,090.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 69,330 shares in the company, valued at $20,523,066.60. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink . Also, CEO Robert M. Buck sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, December 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $374.60, for a total value of $936,500.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 66,830 shares of the companys stock, valued at $25,034,518. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold 8,000 shares of company stock worth $2,643,240 over the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.46% of the companys stock. A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. Loop Capital raised TopBuild from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday, January 8th. Evercore ISI raised TopBuild from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their price target for the company from $308.00 to $368.00 in a research note on Thursday, November 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price target on TopBuild from $369.00 to $419.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 11th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded TopBuild from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and increased their price objective for the company from $312.00 to $387.00 in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded TopBuild from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 26th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $341.67. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on BLD TopBuild Profile (Free Report) TopBuild Corp., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the installation and distribution of insulation and other building material products to the construction industry. The company operates in two segments, Installation and Specialty Distribution. It provides insulation products and accessories, glass and windows, rain gutters, afterpaint products, fireproofing products, garage doors, fireplaces, closet shelving, roofing materials, and other products; and insulation installation services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for TopBuild Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TopBuild and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. True Wealth Design LLC reduced its holdings in HF Sinclair Co. (NYSE:DINO Free Report) by 20.5% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 14,250 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,684 shares during the quarter. True Wealth Design LLCs holdings in HF Sinclair were worth $811,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust bought a new stake in HF Sinclair in the first quarter valued at $36,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. boosted its stake in shares of HF Sinclair by 200.0% during the 3rd quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 726 shares of the companys stock valued at $41,000 after purchasing an additional 484 shares in the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of HF Sinclair by 88.4% during the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,093 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after purchasing an additional 513 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of HF Sinclair during the first quarter valued at about $52,000. Finally, UniSuper Management Pty Ltd bought a new position in HF Sinclair in the second quarter worth about $54,000. 89.15% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get HF Sinclair alerts: HF Sinclair Stock Down 1.3 % DINO traded down $0.80 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $58.56. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,453,874 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,773,662. HF Sinclair Co. has a 1 year low of $37.12 and a 1 year high of $62.20. The stocks 50-day moving average is $55.95 and its 200-day moving average is $55.82. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.52 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.14, a PEG ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a current ratio of 2.13, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27. HF Sinclair Increases Dividend HF Sinclair ( NYSE:DINO Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 21st. The company reported $0.87 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.72 by $0.15. HF Sinclair had a return on equity of 21.92% and a net margin of 6.73%. The firm had revenue of $7.66 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.05 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.97 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts expect that HF Sinclair Co. will post 9.39 EPS for the current year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, March 5th. Stockholders of record on Monday, February 26th will be paid a $0.50 dividend. This is a boost from HF Sinclairs previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.42%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, February 23rd. HF Sinclairs dividend payout ratio is currently 15.57%. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, UBS Group raised HF Sinclair from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $64.00 to $73.00 in a research report on Wednesday, February 14th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $63.70. View Our Latest Research Report on HF Sinclair Insider Activity In other HF Sinclair news, EVP Vaishali S. Bhatia sold 18,465 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, December 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $54.24, for a total transaction of $1,001,541.60. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 51,924 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,816,357.76. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other HF Sinclair news, EVP Vaishali S. Bhatia sold 18,465 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $54.24, for a total transaction of $1,001,541.60. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 51,924 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,816,357.76. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director James H. Lee sold 2,643 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $52.30, for a total value of $138,228.90. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 65,919 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,447,563.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock. HF Sinclair Company Profile (Free Report) HF Sinclair Corporation operates as an independent energy company. It produces and markets gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, renewable diesel, specialty lubricant products, specialty chemicals, specialty and modified asphalt, and others. The company also owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming; and markets its refined products principally in the Southwest United States and Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest, and in other neighboring Plains states. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DINO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for HF Sinclair Co. (NYSE:DINO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for HF Sinclair Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for HF Sinclair and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Key Insights Institutions' substantial holdings in Mpac Group implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price 52% of the business is held by the top 10 shareholders Insiders have bought recently Every investor in Mpac Group plc (LON:MPAC) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 64% to be precise, is institutions. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Given the vast amount of money and research capacities at their disposal, institutional ownership tends to carry a lot of weight, especially with individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Mpac Group. Check out our latest analysis for Mpac Group What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Mpac Group? 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. As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Mpac Group. 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 Mpac Group's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. Mpac Group is not owned by hedge funds. The company's largest shareholder is Schroder Investment Management Limited, with ownership of 17%. With 8.2% and 5.3% of the shares outstanding respectively, BennBridge Ltd and Gerald Oury are the second and third largest shareholders. Story continues We also observed that the top 10 shareholders account for more than half of the share register, with a few smaller shareholders to balance the interests of the larger ones to a certain extent. While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too. Insider Ownership Of Mpac Group The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group. We can see that insiders own shares in Mpac Group plc. It has a market capitalization of just UK80m, and insiders have UK5.9m worth of shares, in their own names. It is good to see some investment by insiders, but we usually like to see higher insider holdings. It might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying. General Public Ownership The general public-- including retail investors -- own 28% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. 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. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Mpac Group , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Click the photo and watch the video. Data from multiple travel platforms indicates that during this year's Spring Festival holiday, Chinese tourists' outbound travel has shown a significant acceleration in recovery, with booking volumes reaching a near four-year peak. Among the popular destinations, Middle Eastern countries have emerged as one of the new favorites for Chinese travelers. CAIRO, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) Mohamed Hassan has been bustling around different tourist attractions in Egypt these days. A continuous influx of Chinese tour groups has kept this Egyptian tour guide on his toes, and he has lost count of how many times he's visited the pyramids this month. "I never formally studied Chinese; I acquired it from interacting with Chinese tourists," said Hassan, who speaks fluent Mandarin with a bit of Beijing accent. "These days, my Chinese is progressing even more." Chinese tourists pose for a photo at Cairo International Airport in Cairo, Egypt, Feb. 10, 2024. [Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa] During the Spring Festival holiday, similar sentiments were echoed by tour guides across various Middle Eastern countries. Whether it's at the pyramids in Egypt, in the ancient city of Jerash in Jordan, or in the streets of Iran, Chinese tourists posing for photos were a common sight. The allure of exotic tourist attractions, hospitable travel environments, and the deepening ties with China are casting Middle Eastern countries as increasingly favored destinations for Chinese travelers venturing abroad. Influx of Chinese Tourists It's half past midnight. A long queue had already formed, snaking its way to the boarding gate for Flight HU0471 (from Shenzhen to Cairo) at Bao'an International Airport in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. A flight attendant at the airport told Xinhua that with the onset of the Spring Festival holiday, flights to Cairo have been operating at near full capacity. Among those waiting in line is Zhang Fengxia from south China's Guangdong Province, who had signed up with her sister for a 10-day tour to Egypt. "I've been longing to visit Egypt for quite some time, eager to lay eyes on the Egyptian pyramids I've known in books since childhood and to gain a deeper understanding of Egyptian culture and civilization," she said. Chinese tourists visit the Giza Pyramids scenic spot in Giza, Egypt, Feb. 8, 2024. [Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa] The heightened tensions in Gaza and the Red Sea have precipitated a significant decline in tourist arrivals to Middle Eastern nations. However, the influx of Chinese tourists has made their lackluster off-peak travel markets more vibrant. Data from multiple travel platforms indicates that during this year's Spring Festival holiday, Chinese tourists' outbound travel has shown a significant acceleration in recovery, with booking volumes reaching a near four-year peak. Among the popular destinations, Middle Eastern countries have emerged as one of the new favorites for Chinese travelers. "We had some safety concerns before coming, but once we got here, we found that the places we visited were safe and beautiful, especially with local tour guide leading the way," said Deng Peng, who was spending the holiday in Jordan with three of her friends. According to Qunar, a leading Chinese online travel platform, search volumes for countries in the Middle East such as Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt have surged since last December. Throughout the entire holiday season, compared to the same period in 2023, outbound travel orders from China to the UAE, Egypt and Morocco have surged by more than threefold. Travel bookings to the city of Dubai alone have seen a growth of over 10 percent. "China is the largest tourism market," said Moslem Shojaei, director general for marketing and international tourism development at the Iranian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. A Chinese tourist poses for photos while visiting the archaeological site of Jerash in Jordan, Feb. 10, 2024. [Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua] From March 21, 2023, to Jan. 20, 2024, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Iran exceeded 54,000, and each Chinese tourist spent nearly 1,000 U.S. dollars on average during their trips to the country, Shojaei told Xinhua, adding that the country is now better prepared for Chinese tourists during the Spring Festival holiday. "Aside from generating economic revenues, the essence and nature of the tourism industry is that of promoting friendship and knowledge," Shojaei said. More Than Tourism Beneath the surge of Chinese tourists to the Middle East lies the discerning hospitality extended by Middle Eastern nations to Chinese visitors, as well as the increasingly close people-to-people exchanges between China and countries in the region. In an effort to woo Chinese tourists, countries such as Egypt, Jordan, the UAE and Iran have rolled out visa-on-arrival or visa-free options, further streamlining entry processes. Numerous Middle Eastern countries have taken proactive steps to increase the number of direct flights to China. Tourism officials from Turkiye, Iran and Saudi Arabia have visited China to directly promote their tourism to the Chinese public, and have specifically tailored travel routes for Chinese tourists. Two Chinese tourists sit on a bench at the historical Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkiye, Feb. 9, 2024. [Photo by Safar Rajabov/Xinhua] In countries like the UAE and Egypt, local governments and tourism agencies have put on special festivities and events to celebrate the Chinese New Year with tourists. "During my travels, I really sensed the locals being super friendly towards China, and it just made the whole experience so delightful," Ms. Zhou, a Chinese traveler, told Xinhua. She had an eight-day adventure planned in Egypt, with destinations that include Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Alexandria, and the Red Sea. "The relations between China and Egypt are good, and many tour guides here have studied in China. Their proficiency in Chinese is impressive," Zhou said. "All these factors made the whole travel experience really smooth." Echoing Zhou's viewpoint, Shojaei also believes that the thriving relationship between China and Middle Eastern countries has been the key driver behind the surge of Chinese tourists flocking to the region. He recalled that during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's visit to China in 2023, both countries agreed on tourism cooperation, which greatly bolstered the growth of cross-border tourism between China and Iran. A recent report on the development of outbound tourism in China released by the China Tourism Academy indicates that as the Chinese economy and tourism market experience a steady recovery, there is an increasing eagerness among the Chinese to embark on overseas travels. This photo taken on Feb. 3, 2024 shows red lanterns at Istanbul Airport in Istanbul, Turkiye. [Xinhua/Shadati] It forecasts that in 2024 the number of Chinese outbound tourists will exceed 130 million, marking a 49 percent surge from the 87 million recorded in 2023. Industry insiders have observed that propelled by the increasingly robust ties between China and Middle Eastern nations, the influx of Chinese tourists to the region is expected to increase even more. "I expect ... the number of Chinese tourists visiting Egypt to increase more and more," said Ashraf Elewa, CEO of Interpoint Tours Travel in Egypt, noting that his company is ready to receive an increased number of Chinese tourists throughout this whole year. In the Egyptian coastal city of Hurghada, Chen Zhiming, from east China's Shandong Province enjoyed a pleasant three-day vacation. "The scenery here is stunning, and the locals are warm and friendly. I'm planning to bring my parents here again next year." Upon knowing that certain Western media expressed disappointment at the "missing" of Chinese tourists in their countries, Chen grinned slyly. "We are not 'missing.' We're simply choosing to visit places where we feel more welcomed." Video reporters: He Yiping, Yu Fuqing, Li Rui, Wang Dongzhen, Yao Bing, Dong Xiuzhu, Sui Xiankai, Sha Dati, Su Xiaopo, Wang Feng; Video editors: Zhang Nan, Luo Hui, Wang Houyuan, Jia Xiaotong, Ma Ruxuan (Source: Xinhua) A staff member interacts with tourists at a Spring Festival fair by the Yellow River in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province, Feb. 5, 2024. [Xinhua/Fan Peishen] LANZHOU, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) To celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, Zhao Xiaoyu was one of many to don red, traditional Chinese clothing known as Hanfu and pose for a professional photographer. "I always wanted to have photos of myself wearing Hanfu. Luckily, I got the opportunity just before the Spring Festival holiday," said Zhao, 24. Her photos were taken along the side of the Yellow River in her hometown of Lanzhou, the capital of northwest China's Gansu Province. The mainstream of the river passes through the city, marked by landmarks including a century-old iron bridge park, hills and temples. The scenery attracts tourists every year, and visitors were able to attend a Spring Festival fair that opened earlier this month and concluded on Monday. Among some 150 booths at the fair, one that provided makeup, traditional Chinese clothing rental and photography services drew crowds of people eager to browse its rails and ask about prices. "This Spring Festival, more young people have been taking photos and posting them on their social media accounts. This is a good way to tell the story of Lanzhou," said the booth's operator, surnamed Yuan, who runs a photography studio in the city. The fair included various activities related to traditional customs, such as dragon dances, lion dances, stilt shows and drum performances. Dong Yujie, 27, used a selfie stick to livestream a parade at the fair to his friend living abroad. "The sounds of the gongs, drums and firecrackers brought back our childhood memories. They are the flavor of the Spring Festival," he said. The fair also attracted attention online, with related topics generating over 15 million views on Douyin, a short-video platform that is the Chinese version of TikTok. After watching a folk music performance at the fair online, Lanzhou resident Wang Wei made the physical journey with his wife and daughter. While enjoying the music in person, the family of three gathered around a hot stove to boil and sip local tea, sample local specialties and soak up the festive atmosphere. Xu Haifeng, one of the organizers of the folk music program, said that four local folk bands had been invited to give regular performances every day during the fair. He noted that the fair was creative and could unleash the cultural vitality and consumption potential of the Yellow River, which is known as the "mother river" of the Chinese nation. "The fair by the Yellow River brings traditional Chinese culture closer to young people," Xu said. An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 5, 2024 shows a view of a Spring Festival fair by the Yellow River in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province. [Xinhua/Ma Xiping] A drone photo taken on Feb. 5, 2024 shows a view of a Spring Festival fair by the Yellow River in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province. [Xinhua/Ma Xiping] (Source: Xinhua) 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. 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. artran / Getty Images Costco has its fair share of loyal fans, but it doesnt mean you should always count on the popular warehouse club for the best bulk items and deals. Check Out: 5 Dollar Tree Items Frugal People Always Buy Read Next: 6 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money Costco added several new inventory items to its shelves in 2024. According to shoppers, these ones are a hard pass. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Blueberry Bagels Costco bagels usually get good reviews, but not the blueberry bagels. According to Mashable, the blueberry bagels were discontinued years ago, but they recently reappeared. They also cost between $8 and $10 for a dozen, which is higher than grocery store bagels. Redditors on the r/Costco subreddit also complained that they mold within two days of purchase and that the blueberry flavor is too subtle. Learn More: 7 Best Kirkland Brand Pantry Products To Pick Up at Costco Food Court Turkey Swiss Sandwich and Chocolate Ice Cream Sundae Costco changed up its food court menu and added some new items. The new turkey Swiss sandwich and chocolate ice cream sundae combo is $6.99, but Redditors say it wont compare to the turkey provolone sandwich. Im a huge fan of Swiss cheese and dijon, but serving ciabatta bread thats not heated and buttered should be a war crime. Id rather eat rocks and gravel, Sonoda_Kotori wrote on r/Costco. Kirkland Signatures House Blend Coffee Kirklands House Blend Coffee has changed significantly this year. The packaging changed and Custom roasted by Starbucks was removed from the label, leading customers to believe that Starbucks no longer partners with the warehouse, Mashable pointed out. Reviews on Reddit were also negative. One person commented that it was dark and oily and tasted awful. Although the $13 price tag for 40 ounces of beans is a good deal, its not worth it. Thai Chili Mango Salad Taylor Farms Thai Chili Mango Salad looks delicious, but Mashable pointed out that its not worth the $8 two-pack price. Costco fan Kayden Roberts emailed the publication, stating that they find trying new products thrilling, but this one was a miss. Roberts wrote that the salad lacked freshness and the dressing was overwhelmingly spicy, which masked the mangos natural flavor. Story continues Fried Calamari Snack Costco recently added Mamas Choice fried calamari, but shoppers felt the $13 price was too high, the calamari was too chewy and the breading was too thick, Mashable reported. If you dont end up returning it, one commenter on Reddit recommended heating it in the toaster oven or air fryer to make it crispy. Grazing Mix The new grazing mix by Basse at Costco, which includes dried fruits, nuts and crackers, doesnt live up to expectations. According to Mashable, the biggest problem is the sealed plastic packaging that traps extra moisture. The crackers and pretzels lose their crunch and taste stale. At Costco, the 24-ounce bag sells for $10 on sale, which would be a great deal if it tasted better. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Filled Bars JoJos Organic Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Filled Bars sound divine, but Mashable reported that there are nearly two grams of sugar in each bite. This is lower when compared to candy, but shoppers also said that it doesnt live up to the hype and it costs more than its worth, coming in at about $10 for 9 pieces and weighing 3.6 ounces. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Items Coming to Costco in 2024 That You Should Probably Avoid Calls for improved Welsh language access on Siri and Alexa systems More must be done to ensure virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa are available through the medium of Welsh, the Senedd heard. Heledd Fychan, Plaid Cymrus shadow minister for the Welsh language, raised concerns about the accessibility of Siri, Apples digital assistant, in particular. She said it has been seven years since her Plaid Cymru colleague Llyr Gruffydd failed to get a response when communicating with Siri in Welsh in the Senedds chamber, or Siambr. During a 2017 debate, Mr Gruffydd asked his smartphone: Who is the first minister of Wales? and Hey, Siri, do you understand Welsh? Siri responded: Sorry, I cant search that, and I rather enjoy what Im doing now. Ms Fychan warned: Unfortunately I think if you spoke to Siri in Welsh now, the same thing would be the outcome. It doesnt always understand me when I try to speak English to it, because of my accent. There is great work to be done to ensure that that range of technology that is part of our daily lives is available. Linguistic banking Jeremy Miles raised the importance of linguistic banking as he gave a statement about a report on the 2018-2024 Welsh language technology action plan on February 20. The Welsh language minister said: Were not yet in a position to be able to do that. To develop that kind of technology we need a significant range of linguistic data, and developers in the area are expecting dozens, if not hundreds of thousands of hours of data before they can create that kind of technology. At the moment, we have about 200 hours of relevant data in the Welsh language. Thats a very familiar story for minority languages, internationally. It is a challenge, and thats why weve prioritised linguistic banking and, in the end, that will allow us to make sure that that happens. Laudable Mr Miles highlighted a Welsh Government-funded project at Bangor University which transcribes Welsh into typed text and can generate subtitles automatically. He said the university has partnered with Open AI the company behind ChatGPT to improve how its most powerful chatbot, GPT-4, processes the Welsh language. Sam Kurtz, the Tories shadow minister, said embracing technology can make the targets of a million Welsh speakers and doubling daily use of the language by 2050 realisable. Welcoming progress, he said: The fact that the action plan recognises that technology is a priority area in terms of securing a place for the Welsh language in our lives is laudable. Mr Kurtz highlighted that SaySomethinginWelsh has created a free short course to help people learn the Welsh national anthem in four lessons, using an app. He called for improved free digital checkers for spelling, grammar and mutations in Welsh. Open source Alun Davies, a Labour backbencher, who represents Blaenau Gwent, was eager to know when he will be able to communicate with Alexa and Siri through the medium of Welsh. The former minister said while the operating system on his iPhone is almost all available through Welsh, he has to turn to English when using apps. Mr Davies called for a focus on open-source technologies rather than technologies that are closed or restricted in terms of licensing. Mr Miles agreed about the need to foster a culture of open innovation, saying work with Open AI offers an opportunity to improve access to apps through Welsh in future. On Alexa and Siri, Mr Miles cautioned: The next challenge, and were already working on it, is to create hundreds of thousands of data. We have quite a long journey before we reach that destination, just because of the size of the Welsh language compared to the languages that are used more. By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter [email protected] Dragon sculpture made of thousands of weapons to breathe fire into knife awareness campaign A four-metre dragon constructed from thousands of weapons will breathe fire into a knife awareness campaign. The stunning metal sculpture is being built at Coleg Cambrias Bersham Road site, in partnership with North Wales Police and Wrexham Council. Lecturer John Freeman and students have been safely welding and fabricated confiscated items including samurai swords, bayonets, kitchen knives and knuckle dusters and constructing them on steel frames. He expects the statue which is of a dragon protecting a child to be completed later this year. It will then be placed on a plinth of Welsh stone slate in front of the colleges Institute of Technology, with red, white, and green lighting to represent the dragon sitting amongst the remnants of a Welsh Castle. Later it will be used as the centrepiece for multi-agency work nationwide, educating people to the dangers of knife crime. We are definitely getting there, the dragon has really come together and while we have pictures of what it will look like there has also been a lot of creativity and imagination involved, said John. Our young learners have been assisting me in shaping the metal and welding, so as well as piecing together this amazing sculpture which will do so much to promote the dangers of knife crime it is developing their skills for their future careers and will be an incredible legacy for them and for Coleg Cambria. Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Bersham Road, has been holding regular offensive weapons and knife crime awareness talks with learners at the college. He said the dragon which is yet to be named will play a major role in supporting police and local authority campaigns. As a work of art, it is absolutely breathtaking, John and the learners have done an amazing job, said Karl. They have made so much progress despite this being a laborious process, as the dragon is crafted and constructed with health and safety the number one priority. He added: We have been regularly collecting the weapons, which have been handed in to police or confiscated, for a couple of years now and the amount is quite staggering. It is important these knives are off the streets and being used for good. Some of the blades and weapons are also being safely used in presentations and talks with our learners, so we can raise awareness to what is a nationwide issue. Councillor Paul Roberts, Wrexhams Lead Member for Partnerships and Community Safety, described the sculpture as a stunning piece of art and said: The Knife Dragon, which was inspired by the Knife Angel which visited Wrexham in 2022, will serve as a reminder of the devastating impact that knife crime can have on our communities. I look forward to seeing the finished sculpture and know it will be a valuable tool in youth education going forward. North Wales Police Inspector Heidi Stokes added: While knife crime offences remain thankfully low in Wrexham, it is important for us all to act to drive them down still further. Knives are dangerous and there is no place for them on our streets. Every incident involving a knife has consequences for all those involved, and so this is an issue we take extremely seriously. As such, it is particularly important we can create opportunities to highlight knife crime and what we can do to prevent it. The Knife Dragon offers a way in which we can work with our partners on a project that just might prevent another tragedy, made with weapons we have seized from our own streets; they will never again be in position to harm anyone. By working with our partners, we will continue to educate, enforce, and act on any information given to us to bring those involved in this type of offending to justice. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.cambria.ac.uk. If you have concerns about knife crime, call North Wales Police on 101 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, visit www.fearless.org/en/give-info. [email protected] Improving education on menstrual cycles key to tackling period dignity in schools More must be done to improving education around menstrual cycles if we are going to tackle period dignity in schools Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn has vowed. The Welsh Governments Period Proud Wales plan sets out the ambition to embed period dignity in schools and improve appropriate education resources around menstrual cycles. By 2027 the Welsh Government aims for periods to be fully understood, accepted and a normalised topic of conversation along with easy, respectful and open access to a variety of period producs. Menstrual well-being and learning about the menstrual cycle is mandatory within the new Curriculum for Wales. The Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) Code sets out the learning which should be taught over time as children grow. It is hoped improving the availability of educational resources and learning around menstrual cycles will remove the stigma of talking about periods, improve the understanding of them and dispel the taboos and myths around them. This includes the likes of the Hwb Busting the Myths educational resource, which is primarily aimed at secondary school pupils. Two core aims of the Welsh Governments Period Proud Wales plan are to tackle period poverty, by improving access to period products, and ensuring period dignity, by removing any sense of stigma or shame associated with periods. In 2022 the Welsh Government increased funding to ensure that period products can be accessed free of charge by learners in schools, Further Education Institutions and to those in need in communities to 3.9 million. A research report into the Period Dignity Grant found that progress is being made in improving the availability of period products, including through schools, for those who struggle to access them. The report also recommends there should be more information provided to people, alongside education, about periods in a bid to overcome the stigma and taboos around talking about them. Work has also begun to co-produce education resources on menstrual wellbeing as part of the mandatory learning within the RSE Code Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn visited Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymnis Gellihaf campus in Caerphilly to see their Period Dignity Drive, which aims to inform pupils about the reality of periods, dispel myths and empower young girls to talk about their bodies in a confident way. The school is also taking shared ownership of period facilities being developed across two sites. Deputy Minister for Social Partnership Hannah Blythyn said: Tackling period dignity is a key part of our Period Proud Wales plan. We must do more to improve education around menstrual cycles if we are going to tackle period dignity in schools. It has been a privilege to see first-hand the Period Dignity Drive being carried out at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and their efforts to empower young pupils to talk about their bodies in a confident way. If we can remove the stigma of talking about periods and dispel the myths and taboos that surround them, we can improve the menstrual wellbeing and awareness of pupils in schools across Wales. This will in turn benefit their health as they become adults. Education Minister Jeremy Miles said: We are striving to improve education resources around periods and ensuring period dignity is considered in guidance for schools, local authorities and colleges. Menstrual well-being is included in our curriculum through the Relationships and Sexuality Education Code, which is currently being rolled out in our schools. Were also working with the Higher Education sector to promote period dignity as part of institutions well-being policies and practices. [email protected] Police crackdown sees 10% drop in shoplifting offences in Wrexham A police crackdown on retail crime has led to an almost 10 per cent reduction of shoplifting offences in Wrexham. Since last Autumn Supt Jon Bowcott has been the North Wales Police lead on retail crime and hes set up a task force to combat it. He will be giving an update on the crackdown and offering advice and guidance at a special conference titled Protect Your Business! Expert Session thats free for North Wales businesses next month. The event between 10.30am and 1pm on Thursday, March 7, at the Scala Cinema in Prestatyn, is being organised by the North Wales Police and Community Trust (PACT) in conjunction with North Wales Police and the North Wales Business Council. Other speakers focus on how businesses can guard against cyber crime and property theft as well as dealing with anti-social behaviour and spotting the signs of modern day slavery. The renewed push on detecting retail crime across North Wales comes against a backdrop of a significant increase in offences across the UK with a 32 per cent hike in England and a 36 per cent rise in Wales as a whole. While the 24 per cent increase in the region is smaller, there have been 800 more shoplifting offences reported in the region since last April, compared to the previous year. When the campaign started in the Autumn, the detection rate was running at 29 per cent and had increased to just over 38 per cenet during January. The crackdown has led to a 9.6 per cent drop in the number of shoplifting offences in Wrexham. Supt Bowcott said: There has been a national trend where retail theft was increasingly dealt with over the phone if the offender wasnt there. Were moving away from that and switching it around so that the default option is that we will attend when retail thefts have been committed, particularly where an offender has been detained, where violence has been used or threatened or where there are enquiries at the scene the would benefit from an officer attending. Essentially, we are having a renewed focus on combatting retail crime because its about fulfilling the message of our mission to make North Wales the safest place to live, work and visit in the UK. Cracking down on retail crime aligns well the forces vision set by our Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman and is absolutely the right thing to do. Its not just about convicting people either because I recognise there are people who struggling with substance misuse or other difficulties so we are also involved with our prevention team who look at methods of offender management that can address some of their lifestyle challenges and sign post them to support. One area I want to develop is dealing with repeat offenders to prevent that demand happening. Dealing with the prolific offenders can have a big impact probably 80 per cent of offending is carried out by 20 per cent of offenders. According to Ashley Rogers, the Chair of PACT and Chief Executive of the North Wales Business Council, the improvement in the detection rate for shoplifting was hugely positive and encouraging news. He said: Coming out of Covid, peoples behaviour is different and the economy is different and retail theft has increased as well as a perception that anti-social behaviour has become more of a problem. For North Wales businesses who are on the front line in terms of handling these issues, its really valuable to have an insight from the experts along with guidance how to manage things if and when it happens or even avoid it by designing your premises in such a way that would discourage it. Over and above that you have the scourge of exploitative modern slavery and there are elements of the problem, like the involvement of organised gangs, that businesses might not be aware of. Its really important that businesses are able to spot the signs of this insidious, often hidden crime, so they can report any suspicions to the police. In uncertain economic times its never been more important for us all to pull together to make North Wales an even safer place, especially with the very high cost of living. More information and how to book a place at Protect Your Business! Expert Session can be found here [email protected] Welsh Government reports 4mph drop in speeds after 20mph implementation The deputy Welsh Government minister who oversaw the speed limit changes on roads across Wales has said attitudes towards 20mph are beginning to change. Preliminary data released today shows that speeds have reduced by an average of 4mph on main roads since the national rollout of the default 20mph speed limit. The data, which was collected by Transport for Wales, monitored millions of vehicles speeds in nine different communities across Wales before and after implementation. It shows that since the new default speed limit was introduced in September 2023 the average speed on Wales roads dropped an average of 4mph from 28.9mph to 24.8mph. According to the Welsh Government research shows a strong link between lowering speeds and decreasing the number of collisions and people injured. On urban roads with low average speeds, there is average six per cent reduction in collisions per 1mph reduction in average speed. Deputy Minister for Climate Change, with responsibility for transport, Lee Waters said the data shows that average speeds are coming down on Wales roads. Mr Waters said: We also know from data published by Go Safe earlier this month that 97% of drivers are complying with the new slower speed limit behaviours and attitudes towards 20mph are beginning to change. Weve still got a way to go, but its encouraging to see that things are moving in the right direction. Every 1mph reduction in speed makes a real difference so this is a real turning point. The international evidence is clear, lower speeds saves lives thats fewer collisions, fewer deaths and fewer severe injuries, reducing the devastation to individuals and their families and the significant impact on the NHS and other emergency services. Chief Executive of the road safety charity, Brake, Ross Moorlock added: Its encouraging to see how the new 20mph speed limit has reduced the overall speeds of these roads. Every day, five people die on UK roads and speed is a factor in every crash. The faster we drive, the greater our risk of crashing, and the harder we hit if we do crash. We know that road crashes have a devastating impact on families and communities. Sadly, we see this first-hand every day through the work of our National Road Victim Service, which last year supported more than 1,500 families who have been bereaved by a road crash or suffered catastrophic, life-changing injuries. We hope that governments and local authorities across the UK will take Wales lead and adopt 20mph as the default speed on roads where people and vehicles mix. The introduction of the 20mph speed limit in September 2023 has not been without its faults. A petition calling for the 20mph limit to be revoked has gained over 468,000 signatures since its launch six months ago. New 20mph speed signs have been damaged and defaced and locally Wrexham Council has faced calls to reconsider introducing a 30mph limit on several main roads in the county borough. In January Mr Waters confirmed that councils across Wales will have the chance to draw up a list of roads that they believe should revert back to 30mph. Alongside the publication of the national data, today the initial report by the independent Review Team, which is looking into the setting of exceptions to the default 20mph limit, has been published. The report sets out a series of early findings and initial recommendations. Speaking about the work of the independent review team, WLGA Chief Executive, Andrew Morgan said: Council leaders welcome the review of the implementation and the current guidance to help them make the right choices for their communities. Councils want to engage with the review to ensure we have the right speeds on the right streets. Whilst there appears to be some roads where the speed limit isnt right and there is a need for local authority review, we have heard from some councils that positive differences have been seen in the speed and safety of their streets, particularly amongst vulnerable people. However the Welsh Conservatives have argued that todays stats prove what a monumental waste of time and resources from the Labour Government the 20mph limit has been. Natasha Asghar MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Transport said: To sacrifice billions of pounds from the Welsh economy all for the sake of 4mph may satisfy Labour, but it is not a trade the Welsh Conservatives would be willing to make. On day one of a Welsh Conservative Government, this barmy policy would be scrapped, and common sense would prevail. [email protected] MarketsandMarkets Research Pvt. Ltd. Chicago, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The access control market size is projected to grow from USD 10.4 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 15.2 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2024 to 2029. The growing awareness towards home security is catering the market for access control systems which are increasingly integrating with broader smart home ecosystems. This seamless integration allows for automated actions like unlocking doors upon arrival, setting access schedules for guests, and triggering alarms in case of unauthorized entry, creating a truly secure and intelligent living environment. To know about the assumptions considered for the study: - https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=164562182 Major Access Control companies include: ASSA ABLOY (Sweden) dormakaba Group (US), Johnson Controls (Ireland) Allegion Plc (Ireland) Honeywell International, Inc. (US) Identiv, Inc. (US) Nedap N.V. (Netherlands) Bosch Security Systems GmbH (Germany) Thales (US) AMAG Technology (US) Axis Communications AB (Sweden) Gunnebo Safe Storage AB. (Austria) NEC Corporation (Japan) GALLAGHER GROUP LIMITED (NewZealand) For instance, in January 2023, Abloy Oy, a part of ASSA ABLOY, introduced ABLOY Key Deposit for keyless access. It enables keyless access to properties with a smartphone via a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection. With this device, property managers can grant different user groups access to properties via the users mobile phones without needing key logistics and access control. In September 2023, Johnson Controls launches the new OpenBlue Service to ensure security device performance. The offering combines Johnson Controls OpenBlue suite of connected solutions, and the ability to monitor and manage security devices across vendors, with remote support services and meaningful insights from skilled engineers, as well as simplified, integrated zero-trust cybersecurity protection. ASSA ABLOY manufactures and sells door-opening solutions, such as access control, mechanical and electromechanical locking, identification technology, entrance automation, security doors, hotel security, and mobile access systems. It has a presence in 70 countries across Europe, North and South America, and Asia and Oceania. The companys regional divisions manufacture and sell mechanical and electromechanical locks, digital door locks, cylinders, and security doors, adapted to the local markets standards and security requirements. Story continues dormakaba Group is a global security group formed through the merger of Kaba Group (Switzerland) and Dorma Group (Germany). The company offers a wide range of products and services, from individual locks and door controls to complete integrated access systems. The range also includes solutions for a seamless flow, such as sensor barriers, speed and self-boarding gates, high-security locks, workforce management solutions, as well as services for all these applications. CONTACT: About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of Americas 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 For the last three years, Wikileaks founder Julian Assanges appearances in court have been limited to arguments over his health and risk of suicide in the event of extradition to the United States to face charges under the Espionage Act. This was due to District Judge Vanessa Baraitsers carefully crafted January 2021 ruling against extradition on the single point of the risk of suicide. WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange greets supporters from a balcony of the Ecuadorian Embassy in London on May 19, 2017 [AP Photo/Frank Augstein] The World Socialist Web Site warned at the time: Ruling against the extradition purely on mental health grounds, Baraitser endorsed in its entirety the prosecutions denial of free speech and freedom of the press, and its justifications of flagrant abuse of Assanges legal due process and human rights. Baraitsers findings on the risk of suicide were overturned by the High Court in December 2021 citing assurances from the US government. These issues were then the focus of months of legal appeals and dragged-out rejections by the British courts. On Tuesday at the UKs High Court, Assanges legal team finally had the opportunity to break out of this procedural straitjacket and raise the issues of rampant state criminality and denial of democratic rights which are really at the heart of this case, and which were systematically overlooked by Baraitser. Across five hours of submissions to Mr Justice Johnson and Dame Victoria Sharp, Edward Fitzgerald KC and Mark Summers KC argued for Assanges right to make a full appeal of Baraitsers findings before the High Court. They also challenged the British Home Secretarys decision to order extradition in line with the courts recommendation. Assange was given permission to attend the hearing in person but again could not, even by video link, due to his worsening ill health after nearly five years incarcerated in Belmarsh maximum security prison. Assanges case against his prosecutors is devastating. It establishes that the US government is waging a campaign of political persecution in retribution for Assanges exposure of US government crimes. In doing so, it is violating his most essential democratic rights: to life, freedom from torture and inhuman and degrading punishment, freedom of expression, and freedom from abuse of legal process and arbitrary power. Summers delivered the most significant evidence, arguing that the US is illegally using its prosecution of Assange as a means of punishing his activity with WikiLeaks which exposed US state-level crimes, crimes which sit at the very apex of the legal hierarchy, including extrajudicial assassinations, renditions, torture, dark prisons, rogue killings. What Assanges work disclosed, Summers continued, was a type of criminality which permeates, is approved, tolerated, within the very fabric of the American government. His case therefore falls within a class of cases where state retaliation makes use of the criminal justice system. Summers cited as a vivid illustration and paradigmatic example from history Emile Zolas open letter condemning the French states persecution of Alfred Dreyfus, JAccuse...! Addressing the events which led to the prosecution of Assange, he recounted, In late 2016, the ICC [International Criminal Court] had announced that it was preparing to investigate the subject matter of these allegations, to which WikiLeaks materials were essential. Swiftly afterwards, a series of US officials issued denunciations of Assange and WikiLeaks, most significantly then CIA Director Mike Pompeo, who referred to WikiLeaks as a non-state hostile intelligence agency. These words, with hindsight, said Summers, authorised direct action against Mr Assange of the kind revealed by a Yahoo! News investigation published in September 2021. The US developed a plan to try to either kill or rendition Mr Assange to the USA The prosecution was commenced in order to provide a framework for the proposed kidnap and rendition of Mr Assange. To ultimately the same end, the American government is now running roughshod over Assanges legal rights through the British courts. The UK-US Extradition Treaty 2003 under which it is seeking his transfer to the explicitly rules out extradition for political offencesof which charges under the Espionage Act, Fitzgerald explained, are a pure example. This is sidestepped on the basis of the Extradition Act 2003, passed by Tony Blairs Labour government, which leaves out the political offences exception. As Fitzgerald explained, this leaves the US government in the position of demanding, Pursuant to this treaty, hand over Mr Assange, and yet that very treaty provides a protection which is inconsistent with him being handed over. He summarised the point: You cannot both rely on a treaty and repudiate it. To do so would be an abuse of process, contrary to Article 5 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR). Assange is also being pursued for activity which he had no legal reason to expect would be prosecuted, contrary to Article 7 of the ECHR, No punishment without law. At the time WikiLeaks published leaked US government documents, Journalists outside government had never before been prosecuted under the Espionage Act, Summers explained. The case crosses a new legal frontier. Baraitsers initial ruling brushed all of these arguments aside. Regarding the malign political motivations behind the US prosecution, according to Summers, she looked at perhaps 10 percent of the case put forward by Assanges team. Most egregious was the treatment of their arguments under Article 10 of the ECHR, Freedom of expression. To decide whether the release of private or classified documents is protected speech, a court would have to determine whether the harm of the disclosure is outweighed by the public interest served by it. Summer argued, The sheer weight and monument of the public interest in this case outshines all else It is difficult to conceive of a disclosure in the greater public interest. Materials released by WikiLeaks have been used by the European Court and the ICC. And yet, in Baraitsers initial ruling, nowhere does the judge acknowledge the public interest. What she does is recognise everything in the other side of the balance, focussing on the harm the US government alleges, but has never proved, was done to its agents and informants. Its a glaring legal error. In his sharpest formulation of the point, Summers argued, Exposing ongoing war crimes, ongoing murders, renditions, torture, all of that, at least arguably could outweigh the disclosure of the names of some of the people that are doing all of that. This, Summers concluded, should hold true for the whistleblower, Chelsea Manning, let alone for the publisher of such leaked information. As well as the courts, the role of the British government was brought more clearly into focus. By law, the Home Secretary is responsible for issuing the final order to extradite. Before they do, they are required by the Extradition Act 2003 to establish there is no risk the extradited person will face the death penalty. Barely a pretence was made of doing so. The option is open to the US government to reformulate its charges against Assange as a capital offence. Summers told the court that Assanges legal team had made this complaint to the Home Secretary; her answer was gibberish. It made the claim that the Home Secretary should only have regard to the presently formulated charges. Thats straightforwardly contrary to this countrys position on the death penalty. He concluded, Whats required in this case are death penalty assurances; its straightforward. And yet, theyre not forthcoming. Lawyers for the US and UK governments will respond to Assanges arguments on Wednesday, in the second and final day of the hearing. Several thousand people protested outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London Tuesday to demand the release of Julian Assange, as a two-day hearing opened. Assanges lawyers are at the UKs High Court to seek leave to appeal his extradition to the United States on trumped up charges under the Espionage Act. Assange is so ill that he was unable to attend the hearing in person, or even to watch on a video link from the maximum security Belmarsh prison where he has been incarcerated for the last five years. Speaking from a stage before entering the court, Stella Assange, Julians wife, described his brutal treatment by the British state. She told Sky News, Julians life is at risk. Every day hes in prison his life is at risk. But if hes taken to the United States he will never be a free man again. He will not survive it. The Unites States wants to put him in the deepest darkest hole of the US prison system for publishing the truth. Stella Assange speaking at the protest outside London's High Court, February 20, 2024 Its very difficult to explain to the children that this is an important moment. I saw Julian on Saturday and I realised afterwards that I dont know if I will see him again. Hes been in Belmarsh prison for almost five years. He didnt do anything wrong. He shouldnt have spent a single day in prison. The contempt of the British ruling class and its institutions for basic democratic rights was on display at the High Court. Giving an update on proceedings at lunchtime, Kristinn Hrafnsson, the editor-in-chief of Wikileaks, described the situation facing Julians family and reporters. I have to tell you I was not able to observe what is going on inside. When I got inside this morning I was not allowed in the main chamber. I was sent to an annex room with most of the reporters who were sitting there not hearing a thing because the audio was constantly breaking. They were sitting there, they were leaving the room, they were protesting. Kristinn Hrafnsson, the editor-in-chief of WikiLeaks speaking outside the High Court in London, February 20, 2024 If this is how you practise open justice, I dont have high faith in the court system here. It is absurd that the journalists are not able to observe what is going on in the most important case for journalists in modern times I was told inside the courtroom that the court decided to put this case in one of the smallest court rooms they have in the building, so only a handful of individuals could observe. How is that possible with the massive interest in the case? What are they trying to hide? Why are they toning down the access to these important proceedings. This is not the first time we have observed this. This has been going on in every proceeding we have had in the Julian Assange case. Jeremy Corbyn also addressed the crowd. He kept his mouth shut about Assange for five years from 2015-19 during his time as Labour leader, refusing to mobilise his millions of supporters in the WikiLeaks founders defence. He has since attempted to portray himself as Assanges defender. But his entire perspective is to make polite appeals to Assanges persecutors to undergo a change of heart. Jeremy Corbyn speaking outside the High Court, London, February 20, 2024 Speaking before the hearing started, Corbyn told protesters, This court today has an opportunity: that Julians case is heard, that Julians search for justice is achieved and that ultimately Julian is able to walk free. But it also depends on the political process and atmosphere in the United States. President Biden could end this incarceration in two minutes. He could withdraw the whole case against Julian Assange if he believes in press freedom as he says he does. If he believes in a pluralist democracy, as he says he does, then let Julian go and let Julian tell the world the truth of the horrors of inequality that exist on this planet. Corbyn concluded with a final appeal to the goodwill of the judges hearing the case: I say to the court, very gently and very persuasively, whatever your decision we arent going away. Protesters arrived several hours before the court opened, covering the main gate in ribbons with messages backing Assange on them. Many chanted Free, free, free Assange! Drivers on the busy road adjacent to the court beeped their horns in support, with bus passengers also expressing solidarity and giving thumbs up signs. Protesters holding up a banner, Julian Assange is a hero, London, February 20, 2024 A large banner placed in front of the High Court read, Julian Assange is a hero. Many brought home-made placards, including one linking Assanges years-long incarceration with the wars waged by the imperialist powers. One read, Assange to Palestine-One Struggle, One Fight. At the conclusion of Tuesdays hearing, it was announced that a march from the High Court to the prime ministers Downing Street residence would be held on Wednesday afternoon. On Saturday, Spains Socialist Party (PSOE)-Sumar government organised a pro-Palestinian photo-op protest in Madrid as the Israeli government makes final preparations for a bloody offensive into Rafah. Some 1.5 million people are crammed together there, on the border with Egypt, denied food, water and proper shelter. The Madrid protest had a politically sinister character. It was called by the PSOE, Sumar, Podemos, the Communist Party (PCE) and its trade union allies, Workers Commissions (CCOO) and the General Union of Workers (UGT), under the banner Freedom for Palestine. No to impunity, end to the massacre. Yet all the parties involved are implicated in US-EU backing for the Israeli states genocide against Gaza. Spain's PSOE Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Economy Minister and first Deputy Prime Minister Nadia Calvino and Sumars Labor Minister and Second Deputy Yolanda Diaz at the Spanish parliament in Madrid, Spain on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023. [AP Photo/Bernat Armangue] A recent report showed that first the PSOE-Podemos government, which ended in November 2023, and then the current PSOE-Sumar government, continued to arm Israel. Last November, a Spanish company exported nearly 1 million in ammunition to Israel. The exports included bombs, grenades, torpedoes, mines, missiles, cartridges and other ammunition and projectiles, and their parts, including slugs, shot and wads for cartridges. Furthermore, according to the same investigation, Spain has acquired 705 million in products from the Israeli company Elbit Systems since October 7. As for the union bureaucracies, they have no intention of opposing the PSOE-Sumar governments support for Israel. UGT leader Pepe Alvarez joined rallies to support Israel in front of the Israeli embassy called by pro-Zionist groups and met the Israeli ambassador to denounce the Hamas attacks of October 7 to the disgust of UGT members. Affiliated to the ruling PSOE, the UGT has a long relationship with Israels corporatist trade union, the Histadrut (General Federation of Land Workers of Israel), which is a pillar of the Israeli apartheid regime, fully supporting attacks on Gaza. Spains largest trade union, CCOO, linked to Sumar, Podemos and the PCE, has made a few statements calling for an end to the war. However, it has refused to call out its members in key Spanish war industries, airports and ports to stop weapons shipments to Israel. Saturdays protest, while ostensibly called in defence of Palestinians, was aimed at deflecting mass anger over the PSOE-Sumars continued sales of weapons, trade and diplomatic relations with Israel. The union bureaucracies used it to posture as pro-Palestinian, whilst refusing to heed the call by the Palestinian trade union federation last October for industrial action to paralyse Israels war machine and stop the genocide. The PSOE-Sumar protest was attended by around 3,000 people, according to Madrid regional authorities, or 15,000 according to the PSOE-Sumar government. It included six ministers, including Transport Minister Oscar Puente, the first high-ranking PSOE official to attend such a demonstration. Participating for Sumar were leader and deputy prime minister, Yolanda Diaz, and Sumars other ministers: Sira Rego, Ernest Urtasun, Pablo Bustinduy and Monica Garcia. The leader of Podemos and former minister of social rights, Ione Belarra, also attended. The pro-Sumar online newspaper Eldiario.es reported: Despite the broad call, the number of protesters has been lower than other protests in favor of the Palestinian cause. At the end of the demonstration, Publico reported, only a hundred people gathered to listen to the reading of the manifesto. The low attendance at last Saturdays protest does not reflect a lessening of opposition to the genocide in Gaza that has cost the lives of over 35,000 Palestinians, left over 60,000 injured and displaced 2 million people. Indeed, on January 20, a pro-Palestinian protest in Madrid gathered 50,000, whilst tens of thousands more marched in Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and Granada. The following Saturday, over 20,000 marched in Madrid, again called by mostly civil society pro-Palestinian organisations in Madrid and across Spain. These were part of a global wave of outrage against Israels genocidal attack on Gaza which has brought millions onto the streets. New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Istanbul, Stockholm, Baghdad, Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur have all seen demonstrations by tens or hundreds of thousands. PSOE, Sumar, Podemos and the trade union bureaucracy had no intention of organising such a demonstration. Though they have direct access to the bourgeois media, entire public relations departments and a large following on social media, they barely made any publicity of the event. They even refused to mobilise their own members and union officials. The PSOE claims 172,000 members, while Sumar claims 70,000, Podemos 18,000, CCOO over a million with over 100,000 union officials and UGT 983,521 and 92,000 delegates. The manifesto calling the demonstration made clear it was a government propaganda event. Whilst refusing to state that the Israeli regime is carrying out a genocide in Gaza, it called for the recognition of the state of Palestine and an immediate ceasefirecalls that Netanyahu will simply ignore. These are the two mains demands the PSOE-Sumar government has made in its international diplomacy. Above all, the low turnout revealed the class gulf separating billions of workers horrified at the Israeli onslaught against defenseless Gaza, and the PSOE-Sumar government and its union allies, which feign sympathy with the Palestinians but continue to arm the Zionist state. The demonstration did not enjoy the support of the pro-Palestinian organisations that have organized previous protests. This was because it did not advocate any measures against the far-right Netanyahu regime, such as breaking diplomatic relations with Israel, an immediate end to the sale and import of weapons, the imposition of economic sanctions or support for South Africa's complaint before the International Court of Justice. According to a recent YouGov survey, 78 percent of the Spanish population would agree with a total arms embargo. Certain workers and youth nonetheless attended the protest to chant slogans against the PSOE-Sumar government. A group of Palestinian women shouted into a small megaphone, 'We want to see [Prime Minster] Pedro Sanchez close the Israeli embassy' and, 'We do have another plan, the Nazi Netanyahu to the Criminal Court.' Demonstrators held placards reading, Israel, genocide state and Boycott Israel now. As the demonstrations manifesto was read at the end, Publico admitted, a group of Palestinians and Muslims organised to accuse those who read the official text of being representatives of the government. This led to some isolated confrontation over accusations of collaborationism and betrayal. The social democrats and pseudo-left politicians intervened to cover their backs. The PSOE walked behind its slogan Stop the death of civilians. Peace now! refusing to call the war a genocide. It was led by Transport Minister Oscar Puente, who has allowed Spanish ports and airports to be used to transport weapons and goods to Israel. Sumars Yolanda Diaz said: We have to stop selling weapons to Israel and we have to sanction them, as we have done in identical situations. There is no relativism with human rights. But in reality, Diaz is sitting as a minister in a capitalist government selling weapons to Israel for the genocide. For her part, Podemos leader Belarra called on the PSOE-Sumar government to end arms sales to Israel so as not to continue being complicit in the genocide of the Palestinian people. She insisted that if the government does not immediately stop the purchase, sale and transportation of ammunition and weapons, it will be complicit in this genocide. In reality, however, it has already made itself complicit in the genocide by its months-long arms sales to Israel . Belarra, it must be added, was covering up her own complicity. In the 45 days from the October 7 Palestinian uprising, until Podemos left government, she sat in government as Madrid traded millions of euros in weapons with Israel. Stopping the Gaza genocide requires mobilizing workers across Europe and internationally against all these bankrupt pseudo-left parties oriented to the capitalist state and imperialist diplomacy. The struggles of the working class must be forged into a united international struggle against genocide, imperialist war and capitalism, and for socialism. This requires building a revolutionary Trotskyist vanguard, sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International, in struggle against pseudo-left parties like Sumar and Podemos. Yesterday, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles unveiled a restructuring of the navy that will see the countrys surface fleet double in size. Under the Labor governments plan, the navy will become the largest it has been since World War II. Royal Australian Navy submarines and ship [Photo: Facebook/Royal Australian Navy] As striking as the scale of the build-up is its explicit intent. There has been minimal attempt by the government or the Department of Defence to hide the fact that the naval expansion is aimed at the preparation of war and that the primary target is China. Under the plan, Australias fleet of warships will increase from 11 currently to 26, though the program will not be completed until the 2040s. At the centre of the policy is a major expansion of strike capability. The government has boasted that the naval overhaul will increase the number of planned vertical missile cells from 432 to 702. The program is in line with the Defence Strategic Review (DSR), commissioned by Labor shortly after it assumed office in May 2022, completed in record time and adopted by the government last April. The DSR called for a transformation of all branches of the defence force and unveiled a new military doctrine. As opposed to its previous nominal purpose of protecting the Australian continent and its approaches, the military would develop impactful projection that could extend throughout the Indo-Pacific and beyond. This agenda, centering on the acquisition of missile capabilities across all branches of defence, was explicitly connected by the DSR to the increased likelihood of conflict in the region. The conflict referred to is the advanced US preparations for war against China, which is viewed as the chief threat to American imperialist hegemony in the Indo-Pacific and globally. Australia is on the frontline of this program, first unveiled in 2011, with the countrys transformation into a hub of US-led operations greatly accelerated under the current Labor government. Just as the DSR was worked out in close collaboration, so too is the naval expansion. It is based on an independent review headed by retired US Navy Vice Admiral William Hilarides, who no doubt remains plugged into high echelons of the American military. Marles said the review, handed to the government last year, indicated that the existing fleet was not appropriate for the strategic environment we face, noting it is the oldest fleet Navy has operated in its history. It called for greater capability in integrated air and missile defence, multi-domain strike and undersea warfare and insisted on immediate implementation based on references to the security situation. Speaking alongside Marles yesterday, Mark Hammond, the chief of the Australian Navy, proclaimed the new plan to be the most consequential investment in the surface combatant force of the Royal Australian Navy in generations. The new fleet would be not just the largest, but also the most lethal, he said, under conditions of increasing geostrategic uncertainty. The repurposed fleet will be composed of two tiers, with some of the capabilities already announced. Tier 1 will consist of nine vessels, including three 7,000-tonne Hobart-class Air Warfare Destroyers launched between 2015 and 2018. They are being upgraded with newer combat systems, enabling them to fire missiles at a range of around 250 kilometres from their 48-cell vertical launch systems. The destroyers will likely be equipped with Tomahawk and Naval Strike Missiles, the procurement of which were announced by the government last year. In addition, the government will proceed with the construction of six Hunter-class frigates, down from the previous plan of nine, despite blowouts in both cost and the length of time it has taken for their construction. Their design will be modified to provide for increased missile cells and the ability to launch Tomahawks. They will replace the existing Anzac vessels which are to be progressively phased out. Most of the new announcements cover so-called Tier 2, which is billed as an agile fleet of smaller vessels, suitable for rapid deployment and manoeuvres. This will include the construction and acquisition of 11 general purpose frigates. While the government claims that eight of those will be constructed in Australia, the first three are to be purchased off the shelf. The design and manufacturing country has yet to be determined, or at least publicly unveiled, with Japanese, Spanish and Korean frigates all floated as possibilities. The government has confirmed that those ships will be in the 3,000-plus tonnes class, substantially larger than corvettes and other small vessels previously discussed. The government has also announced its intention to acquire six new large optionally crewed surface vessels (LOSVs), some through purchase from the US and others supposed to be built in Australia. The LOSVs, which are still under design, are to be massive waterborne drones, decked out with missiles even though they do not require a crew. An additional 25 minor war vessels will complete the fleet, including six that are to focus on patrols, especially in the south-west Pacific, where the US and Australia are engaged in an aggressive campaign against any increasing Chinese influence. The naval build-up is part of a broader program. That includes the acquisition of a fleet of potent nuclear-powered attack submarines under the AUKUS pact with the US and Britain, plans to purchase hypersonic missiles and a parallel upgrade of strike capabilities in the air force and army. The expansion occurs as US basing in Australia is being dramatically increased. US B-52 bombers, capable of carrying nuclear weapons, are being rotated through northern Australia and US nuclear-powered submarines have begun docking at Australian ports. At the Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations in Brisbane last July, the Labor government unveiled a sweeping agreement to provide the US military with virtual carte blanche access to Australian bases and military facilities across all domains. The naval program has been unveiled in the wake of several incidents over the past year, including disputes and near-clashes with the Chinese Navy, that have highlighted the continuous participation of the Australian Navy in provocative US-led patrols throughout the region, including in the disputed East and South China Seas. Marles and other Labor ministers have sought to present the naval expansion as a jobs boon. Even by their own estimates, which undoubtedly exaggerate the numbers, only 3,700 direct jobs will be created by the naval development, all of them in Perth and Adelaide. In addition to obscuring the issue of war, the jobs angle is aimed at dampening down anger over ever greater military spending. Labor has pledged to increase naval spending to pay for the announcements by $1.7 billion over the next Forward Estimates and $11.1 billion over the next decade. The review, however, reportedly found a $25 billion hole in naval spending. The total price tag of the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarines is up to $368 billion. That means decades of austerity as government spending is diverted from already crisis-ridden and under-resourced hospitals, schools and social programs to the military. Despite the scale of the naval program, its reception from hawkish and pro-war commentators has been mixed. Some have bemoaned the time-scale as far too long, complaining that Labor is pushing off the necessary development of a vast military decades into the future. Others have cautiously welcomed the announcement, while insisting that it must be delivered upon without delays. Whatever their differences, all have indicated in one form or other that the latest announcements are only the beginning of a far broader build-up. Former prisoners held in a juvenile detention facility in Kentucky filed a lawsuit last month detailing abuse, neglect and humiliation. The suit alleges that two adolescent girls were placed in isolation cells for weeks in unsanitary conditions. One of the girls was placed in a padded cell without a toilet. The other teenage girl, who was 17-years-old and seven months pregnant at the time, was only allowed out of her cell around five times in one month for a walk. Both of the girls remained in isolation cells for the entire time that they were held and provided only rare opportunities to take a shower. Adair County Youth Detention Center [Photo by Dunnothing / CC BY-SA 4.0 Filed in the federal US District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, the lawsuit names as defendants the Adair County Youth Detention Center, the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, as well as a number of state and facility leaders, and calls on other former prisoners to join in a class action against the state for the pervasive abuse in its juvenile justice system. This lawsuit also includes testimonies from other young people at the center that attest to the sadistic and torturous character of jail staff. Some described staff at the prison forcing young girls to strip naked in the presence of members of the opposite sex. Staff also forcibly removed prisoners clothes or withheld clothes while the girls were in view of other youth or prison staff. In one alleged incident reminiscent of torture employed at Guantanamo Bay, a young person was held in an isolation cell with a Spanish version of Baby Shark playing on loop. Another account reported that a young girl spent days soaked in menstrual blood as the prison staff would verbally assault and humiliate her about hygiene. Kentucky presently operates eight prisons designed to house young people throughout the state. Incarcerating around 163 per 100,000 youth a year. This is more than double the national average of 74 per 100,000. Many of the young people incarcerated in Kentucky are not considered to be significantly more violent nor are they a danger to society. In reality, many are considered status offenders, charged with minor and age-specific violations like truancy, or they have run away from home. On average, they spend about a week in custody, although there are many more that have been locked up for a month or more in pre-trial detention. It is nearly impossible to fully cross-reference the charges levied against these young people because typically the names of minors are kept confidential; in 2022, more than 100 young people held in juvenile prisons, known as wards of the state, had state-appointed guardians. These are young people coming from unstable homes and are placed within the foster care system. Children who are wards of the state are at risk of remaining in a perpetual state of being locked in a juvenile detention center. The Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) reports inherent struggles of getting young people out of detention centers and placing them in either foster homes or private agencies, due to a lack of openings. The struggle in finding placement is increased if the young person has been diagnosed with a mental health issue or a history of misbehavior. The repeated phrase across juvenile detention files is that children can be released when placement is found. In fact, many of them have served their time and should be considered non-offenders; however, detention centers cannot release them because they are considered minors and no one is able to take responsibility as a parent or guardian. It is a sign of a society wracked by poverty, an ongoing opioid crisis, and lack of a basic social infrastructure that so many children simply have no safe place to go. The only response of the ruling class is to toss vulnerable kids behind bars. Youth who are coming into the system have documented mental health diagnoses involving a plethora of challenges including neglect and abuse, trauma, substance use disorders, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and sexual abuse, a recent audit commissioned by the state Auditor of Public Accounts declared. The audit revealed horrific, systemic abuse within Kentuckys juvenile detention facilities. Released January 29, 2024, the report, Juvenile Justice Performance Assessment of Facilities, was prompted by a series of assaults, escapes and riot situations in these brutal, overcrowded facilities. In August, a disturbance at Warrant Regional Juvenile Detention Center resulted in staff injuries. Another at the Adair Regional Youth Development Center saw youth unlocking many cells and roaming freely through the facility. At the Jefferson facility in Louisville, a young prisoner acquired a lighter and set two fires in the building. During the emergency, another youth broke a window and scaled the outer perimeter fence. In response to these incidents, the DJJ has only escalated its use of force, including pervasive deployment of pepper spray and tasers. The audit revealed widespread use of isolation and room confinement, which are clinical terminology for solitary confinement, when children are physically and/or socially isolated for disciplinary or administrative purposes during non-sleeping hours. Solitary confinement is internationally recognized as torture. Its impact on children is traumatic and cruel. The audit notes, While no substantive research exists showing the benefits of placing youth in isolation, an abundance of data and research can be found to indicate isolation causes a great deal of harm to youth, particularly those with disabilities or histories of trauma and abuse. Isolation was reportedly used a total of 1,579 times last year, an average of nearly 200 cases per month. These numbers do not show how long children were put into solitary confinement. At the Fayette detention center in Lexington, auditors observed a boy placed on special management status and confined to a room, yet he presented as calm and had no current documented behavior or disciplinary issues. For more than two days, he was held in isolation where, when he was not asleep, was seen standing at his door most of the time. At the McCracken detention center, a boy was held in an isolation cell for three days where he was served his meals. He had only one shower and was given only one 30-minute block for exercise. In the states eight juvenile detention facilities, the audit found rampant, violent use of force including chemical agents, tasers and other security control devices. The audit also found that DJJ had not operationalized most of the findings from a 2017 report by the Center for Childrens Law and Poverty. Educational services were found to be poorly and inconsistently implemented. Juvenile detention centers lacked documentation of many mental and physical health services and had chronic staffing challenges and poor workload balancing. Facilities had not implemented standard treatment protocols even for common medical emergencies such as anaphylaxis or asthma attacks, epilepsy or opioid overdoses. The prisons had no protocols for managing psychiatric medication. There was no testing protocol found for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. In addition to the eight juvenile prisons, the DJJ also operates six youth development centers, nine group homes and five day treatment programs, which were not evaluated by auditors. Overall, the number of incarcerated youths has fallen from a peak of 108,802 in the year 2000 to just over 25,000 in 2020, according to federal data. Kentuckys numbers followed the national trend, although juvenile detention intake numbers showed a sharp increase between 2021 (1,861 detainees) and 2022 (3,044 detainees) as pandemic policies were ended. The response of Democratic Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has been to blame budgetary constraints posed by the Republican-controlled legislature, despite boasting for the third consecutive year that the revenue surplus exceeded $1 billion in late 2023. Instead of addressing the issues regarding the juvenile justice system and the physical and mental long-term impact it has on young people, the Kentucky ruling class has doubled down on being tough on crime. Most notably, House Bill 5 that was sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 7, which seeks to heighten punishments on various crimes and criminalize homelessness. IYSSE members speaking with students at Otago University The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), the youth organisation of the world Trotskyist movement, is campaigning this week to build a club at the University of Otago in Dunedin, in New Zealands South Island. Members of the IYSSE have been distributing articles from the World Socialist Web Site, signing up members and speaking with students during Orientation Week and promoting an initial meeting on Thursday, at 3.00pm in the OUSA Clubs & Societies building, room 5, titled, Stop the genocide in Gaza! Build a socialist anti-war movement! The meeting will discuss the genocidal war that Israel is waging against the population of Gaza in the context of the global crisis of capitalism. It will explain the urgent need for young people to take up the fight for socialism in the working class, which is the only way to stop the genocide and the developing third world war. The imperialist powers, led by the United States, are resorting to military violence to uphold their domination over the worlds resources and markets. This includes instigating war against Russia over Ukraine, threatening war against Iran and the far-advanced preparations for war against China. New Zealands ruling class, an imperialist ally of the US, is deeply involved in these brutal wars and war plans. The previous Labour government sent troops to Britain to assist with training Ukrainian conscripts to fight Russia. The current National Party-led government has sent military personnel to assist with the US-led bombing of Yemen and is further integrating the country into the military build-up against China. NZ Army recruiters at the Otago University Students Association (OUSA) Orientation Week Tent City event The IYSSEs campaign is directed against the growing militarisation of society, including the promotion of war to young people. This can be seen this week at the Otago University Students Associations (OUSA) Tent City installation, where the student union has provided a prominent space for the New Zealand Defence Force to carry out a recruitment drive. The government and opposition parties all agree that the militarys budget and numbers must be significantly expanded, while public services are slashed to pay for it. Dozens of students who spoke with the IYSSE and signed up for its Otago club expressed outrage and horror at the destruction of Gaza, and opposition towards the New Zealand governments support for Israel and the US. Many of them have joined the weekly protests held in Dunedin and across New Zealand as part of the global movement against the genocide. Tia, who studies law and philosophy, said one of the biggest reasons I wanted to go [to the protests] was because a lot of the media has been spreading false information about whats actually happening. Its coming across as if its a war, but it cant be a war if one side is not fighting back. Tia She said a lot of the tactics that have been used [against the Palestinians] are right out of the Nazi handbook. Israel was not fighting terrorism, she added, pointing to the thousands of children killed in Gaza. Asked why the New Zealand government was supporting the Netanyahu regime, Tia said: I think it just comes down to capitalism and money. She agreed with the call from Palestines trade unions for workers internationally to take strike action to stop weapons and other supplies from going to Israels military. Jamshid, a student from Iran, said as long as western countries like the US support Israel, they will continue to kill people in Gaza and its impossible to stop them. They should follow the UN resolution of 1967 and accept the Palestinian country. Asked why the US was supplying Israel with unlimited weapons, he said this was due to the power of Zionists within the US and the greed of weapons manufacturers. Israel provided a good opportunity to sell their weapons and kill people. I think the problem in the Middle East is not Iran, not Palestinians, not Arab countries. The main problem is the presence of the US; as long as the US is in the Middle East, there are problems. They shoot people, they sell weapons to countries to kill each other. The military interventions in the region were not about democracy, not about [solving] problems for the people. Its just about money for the US and western companies which need resources. He said young people had to think critically and not accept all the things the western media tell them. They tell lies. They say Palestinians, Arabs are dangerous, they dont accept democracy, they are barbarians, things like that. But if you review the history, you can see the Middle Eastern countries were the most civilised in the world. Jamshid added that there was a big difference between the Jewish people and the Israeli government. The problem is Zionism, not religion, its discrimination and racism. He compared the crimes against the Palestinians to the atrocities perpetrated against Jewish people in the Second World War. Divine, a dental student, told the IYSSE that she had a friend in New Zealand whose family was from Gaza. Her home was bombed. Shes lost family members. Shes devastated. She said it was just disgusting that nothing had been done to stop Israel. Its war crimes, whats happening, having their water cut off and isolating people. It is a genocide. Divine Divine said governments were refusing to denounce Israel because they were scared of the US. I think if everyone stood up, we could make a big change. If small countries stood up and said: This is not okay, weve learned from the past, weve seen what World War I and World War II did, lets be better. Youd expect that in 2024. She saw parallels between the dispossession of Maori during the colonisation of New Zealand by Britain and the driving out of Palestinians from their land. She said the New Zealand government should speak out and take a stand for Palestinians, but added: Look at what theyre doing now. How can they do anything [to support] other people when they cant even do it for our own people here? The National-led government, which includes the far-right ACT and New Zealand First parties, has announced sweeping cuts to public services, attacks on welfare recipients, and is attempting to stoke racism against indigenous Maori in order to divide the working class. I just dont understand why we have to be on the wrong side of history, Divine said. What happens when they speak about this in 20 or 30 years and theyre studying it in high school? People are going to be really frustrated that we didnt do anything when we had the chance. Ruby, who is studying politics, said: Israel is breaking all the international rules and international law, but its being backed by America. What the Israeli state is doing is not OK by any measure. Its up to ordinary people to help out and to become informed about whats going on. Thats very important. Regarding the claims made by politicians and the corporate media that opposition to Israels actions is antisemitic, she said: That is actually really stupid. Whenever Israel does something criminal, these people will mask it by saying Youre being antisemitic. Its not antisemitic at all, its protesting for the basic rights of the Palestinians. Millions of workers and youth around the world, horrified at Israels genocidal war in Gaza have protested week after week since October 7 demanding an end to the conflict. More than 29,000 people, including many women and children, have been massacred. Hospitals, schools and other infrastructure facilities have been destroyed. The Israeli military has blocked essential supplies of food, water, fuel, medical care and electricity resulting in widespread starvation, disease and further deaths. Now it is preparing a murderous land offensive into Rafah where 1.5 million Palestinians have been driven, living in atrocious conditions. The US, along with all the imperialist powers, has backed the Israeli regimes barbaric war to the hilt, politically and materially, with large supplies of arms. Unsurprisingly the Sri Lankan government of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, along with the opposition Samagi Jana Balawegay, has lined up with Israel parroting the US denunciations of Hamas. The opposition Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna has declared that it does not take sides in the conflict, effectively lining up with the oppressor, Israel, against the oppressed Palestinians. What is the attitude of the Jaffna University Student Union (JUSU) to one of the greatest crimes in history: silence! IYSSE members speak with students at Jaffna University, Sri Lanka, November 2023. Asked by the World Socialist Web Site, JUSU leader K. Thuvarakan did not mince words. We do not care about international developments. We do care only about our problems, Tamil peoples problems, he said. In other words, We dont care what is happening in Gaza. During a campaign by the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) at Jaffna University, a JUSU council member bluntly declared: There is a wide global protest movement supporting Palestinians now, but when the Sri Lankan government was massacring Tamils during the war there was no such a global movement to support us? The cynicism involved in these remarks is staggering. There are clear parallels between Israels genocide of Palestinians and the slaughter carried out by the Sri Lankan military against Tamils in the final months of its bloody war against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in 2009. After the fall of LTTE-controlled Kilinochchi, Elephant Pass and Mullaitivu by January 2009, the Sri Lankan army drove the remaining LTTE forces and nearly half a million Tamil civilians into an ever-shrinking pocket of land on the northeastern coastline. Civilians were subject to relentless artillery and aerial bombardment. The Defence Ministry announced no fire zones where people would be safe but then bombed these areas. On February 1, the army shelled the Puthukkudiyiruppu hospital within a so-called no fire zone, killing nine people and injuring another 20. On February 6, the Ponnambalam Memorial Hospital in the same town was also hit, killing around 75 people. The following day, the Air Force, in a manner similar to the Israelis, justified this war crime by falsely claiming that the hospital was the hideout of an LTTE leader, Soosai. Human Rights Watch documented 30 attacks on health facilities in the war zone from December 2008 on. Just as the Israeli military is seeking to starve the Palestinian population, Sri Lankan forces severely restricted supplies to Tamil civilians trapped in the war zone. The war ended on May 18, 2009 after the final collapse of LTTE military forces. Surrendering LTTE leaders were murdered by Sri Lankan troops. Some 300,000 Tamil civilians were sent into military-controlled concentration detention camps set up in Vavuniya. Around 11,000 people, mainly youth, were taken to secret rehabilitation centers. Many simply disappeared. The Colombo government dishonestly denied any atrocities, flatly declaring that no civilians had been killed. The UN, however, estimated that 40,000 Tamil civilians had been massacred in the final weeks of the war alone. Sri Lankan soldiers patrol in Jaffna, about 300 kilometres (186 miles) northeast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, June 21, 2006. [AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena] Undoubtedly among Tamil youth and workers today there is considerable sympathy for the plight of the oppressed Palestinians. Among student leaders at Jaffna University there is none. Moreover, it is simply false that there were no global protests in 2009 against the brutal onslaught against Tamils in Sri Lanka. Demonstrations erupted in Toronto, Paris, London and Berlin against the humanitarian disaster in Sri Lanka. However, while the protests expressed widespread anger against Colombos racialist war, the Tamil parties and organisations that dominated the demonstrations limited the demands to calling for the Western powers and India to intervene and to stop it. Appealing to the very powers that were backing Colombos brutal military offensive was completely futile. The JUSUs silence on the Palestinian genocide is a product of the pro-imperialist politics of the Tamil parties with which it has close ties. All of them plead with the international communityabove all the United Statesto pressure the Colombo government for a power-sharing deal to enhance the power and privileges of the Tamil elites in the North and East of the island. All of these Tamil parties have taken a similar stance to the JUSU on Gaza, not wanting to offend Washington and New Delhi. Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) spokesman M.A. Sumanthiran issued a token protest note via Twitter when the Israeli military attacked the Al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza on October 18. Two days later, he issued an empty appeal in parliament to let peace prevail in the region. Tamil National Peoples Front (TNPF) leader Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, speaking in the parliament on October 20, declared that Israel was carrying out genocide and vaguely referred to the situation facing Tamils in 2009, but he did not call for an end to the war. All Tamil parties defend the Zionist state of Israel arbitrarily formed by the imperialist powers following World War II at the expense of the Palestinian people. Most significantly, they have nothing to say about the support of the US and European powers for Israel and its slaughter in Gaza. After the end of the war, the US began to raise concerns about human rights in Sri Lanka, not out of any concern for the democratic rights of workers and youthTamil, Sinhala or Muslimbut to pressure the Colombo government to sever its ties with China. The Tamil parties followed suit, lining up with the US-led preparations for war with China. The JUSU also fell into line. In a report in September 2022, it promoted the fraud that the UK, India, America and Germany are working together to support Tamil people. At the same time, it lambasted China for supporting Colombo in undermining Tamils rights, claiming that Beijing was trying to dominate Sri Lanka. The JUSUs silence on the massacres taking place in Gaza is an indictment of Tamil nationalist politics. Those who do not defend the rights of workers and youth in every country do not defend the rights of those who they call our people. The JUSU and the Tamil parties that prostrate themselves before imperialism only care about the wealth and privileges of the Tamil bourgeoisie. A WSWS International Editorial Board statement written in February 2009 as the Sri Lankan army intensified its brutal offensives highlighted the bankrupt nationalist perspective of the Tamil elites, stating: The pro-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam web site Puthinam published an article on February 1 titled, India, India and everything is India. It argued pathetically, Our demonstrations in front of the White House, Downing Street, streets of Ottawa and the streets of other Western capitals would only create inconvenience to the respective governments, and urged: Though they couldnt do anything now, we need the support of the Western states later so we should not trouble them The Puthinam article speaks volumes about Tamil nationalist politics which is always oriented to the imperialist powers and India as their saviours. It called on the Tamil diaspora not to embarrass their imperialist masters but to serve them and seek their support. That is exactly what they are doing today: not embarrassing US imperialism over its support for Israeli genocide in the futile hope that a few crumbs will pass their way. The IEB statement explained, the allies of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka and in the diaspora in the imperialist countries are the working class. It is the only social force with the power and whose class interests lie in ending the war, overthrowing the Sri Lankan bourgeois state, and ensuring the democratic rights of the Tamil population, as part of the struggle against the imperialist world order. Workers and young people today in Sri Lanka, the Middle East and around the world need to draw the necessary political lessons from the bloody conclusion to the protracted communal war in Sri Lanka. Basic democratic and social rights cannot be defended in Gaza, Sri Lanka or anywhere else by pleading with imperialism. Rather the orientation must be to building a unified movement of the international working class against imperialism on the basis of a socialist perspective to put an end to capitalism. Above all, this means a rejection of all forms of nationalism and communalism, which serve to divide workers on the basis of race, religion or ethnicity. The Tamil nationalism espoused by the JUSU and Tamil bourgeois parties, like the Sinhala chauvinism of the Colombo political establishment, has proven to be a disaster for the working class. We urge Tamil, Muslim and Sinhala workers and youth to join us in opposing the US-backed genocide by the Zionist regime against Palestinians and help build an international movement of the working class to end imperialist oppression and the drive toward world war. Darren W. Woods, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Mr. President, On behalf of Exxon Mobil Cooperation, I would like to offer my warm congratulations on your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. I send you my best wishes for your continued success, as well as for the prosperity and well-being of the people of Azerbaijan. Under your leadership, I am confident that Azerbaijan will continue to play its leading role in the oil and gas sector. ExxonMobil values its longstanding energy collaboration with Azerbaijan. Together we can help meet the worlds need for reliable and affordable energy while working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This dual challenge will be at the forefront of COP29 deliberations and I extend my best wishes to the Republic of Azerbaijan in hosting this critical global dialogue. Congratulations again and I wish you and the people of Azerbaijan a bright future. Sincerely, Darren W. Woods Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation" Leer en espanol Teachers Ted and Genine Telepak are building a small second house, known as an accessory dwelling unit, next to their longtime Gilbert home. The couple in their 60s might downsize and live in their square foot 700-square-foot ADU later on, but for now, it will be an office or home for Genines father. During COVID, we really started to minimalize our lives, said Ted Telepak, who works at Arizona State University. We have lived in our home for 32 years and want our family to be close to us. But our kids cant afford a home near us. Genine Telepak said her father, who lives in California, had long been asking about finding a small house near them. The couple found an Arizona developer specializing in ADUs, and their midcentury-style small home is on track to be done by the end of the month. But it wasnt an easy process getting zoning approval. Some Valley cities require casita-like homes not to be visible from the street, bar them from having full kitchens and insist they only go on lots an acre or bigger. ADUs are gaining in popularity as affordable homes, but they arent easy to build in Arizona. Not all cities will approve them, and some neighbors fight them, concerned they will become short-term rentals and create parking and noise problems. But housing advocates are big supporters of the small homes, and Arizona legislation has been introduced to make it easier to build them in most cities across the state. ADUs are a great solution to ease Arizonas housing shortage, said Mark Stapp, growth expert and director of the Master of Real Estate Development program at Arizona State University. Zoning requirements are making them too tough to build in too many cities. Ted Telepak shows off the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that reveal the backyard of their new ADU, accessory dwelling unit, for his wifes father at their Gilbert home Feb. 2, 2024. Building small homes next to big ones When working remotely became the norm in 2020, Zander Diamont and Jared Amzallag launched Minimal Living Concepts and started building ADUs across the Valley. The firm has developed 70 of the small homes, which range in size from 429 square feet to 1,600 square feet and cost an average of $150,000 to $418,000. Story continues Most people dont want to take on the hassle of hiring an architect, finding a contractor, dealing with complicated permitting issues, and dealing with so many entities, said Diamont. We geek out over the little things, so our customers dont have to. Minimal Living is building the Telepaks' ADU. Other builders are also developing ADUs. Theres no good tally of how many ADUs have gone up in Arizona, but the number is growing. There truly is a patchwork of legislation regulating ADUs across Arizona, and sometimes even within different neighborhoods in the same city, he said. Genine Telepak said it took determination and grit to get their ADU approved. The process, the problems It took the Telepaks a few years to get approval from their HOA and Gilbert for their ADU. Phoenix legalized ADU development last November, which is already making it easier to build them in the city. Arizona housing advocates have introduced legislation to spur more ADU development and allow municipalities to more easily approve zoning and construction of the small homes. But the legislation has critics, who are raising concerns about parking and design standards with ADUs. Other states, including California, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Oregon, Utah and Washington, have laws that make ADU development easier or legal in most cities and counties. As governments address the housing shortage, ADUs are one way to quickly increase inventory and help people provide affordable housing for adult children or aging parents right in their own backyard, said Diamont. The Telepaks say they could move into the ADU later on, and one of their kids could move into their bigger home. I look at my kids and see apartment rents going up, and dont know how people can afford the cost of homes, said Ted Telepak. I look at an ADU as a way of bringing extended family in and providing housing for them. Reach the reporter at catherine.reagor@arizonarepublic.com or 602-444-8040. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @CatherineReagor. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Housing advocates push for more of these ADU tiny homes in Arizona On February 9, a more than two-hour-long interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin was released by Tucker Carlson, an American journalist and prominent figure on the far right. In a sign of immense public distrust of media propaganda and concern over the war in Ukraine, the interview garnered significant interest, amassing over 18 million views on YouTube alone. It is therefore necessary to subject Vladimir Putins positions to closer analysis, to expose his bankrupt policies and elucidate how they reflect the material interests, social psychology and historical origins of Russias ruling oligarchy, of which Putin is the true embodiment. Mythology versus history Putin began the interview with a half-hour fantasized discourse on the history of Russia and Ukraines origins. Despite Putins attempt to present himself as a serious thinker grappling with the connection between current issues and historical events, he managed to make himself look ridiculous. Tucker Carlson could not conceal his own embarrassment as it became all too clear that his subject was not the formidable strategist or even the evil genius as portrayed in the Western media. Seeking to impress the American media celebrity with a dazzling display of erudition, Putin came across as an absurdly pretentious autodidact. However impressed the Russian president may be with his own musings, Putins survey of the pastfrom Prince Rurik and his successor Oleg and great-grandson Vladimir through to Genghis Khan, Catherine the Great and, finally, the present-day occupant of the Kremlinwas a slapdash collection of neo-tsarist Slavophile fairy tales that has nothing to do with serious history. Russian President Vladimir Putin is interviewed by former Fox News host Tucker Carlson at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia on February 6, 2024. [Photo by Gavriil Grigorov/Kremlin] Putin began his narrative in the year 862, echoing the tsarist myth of the thousand-year history of Russia and glorifying the Russian Empire under the tsars. The reality is that the Russian nation has existed for at most half that time and has consistently lagged behind the more advanced capitalist nations of Europe and America. He fixated on the medieval state of Kievan Rus and portrayed it as Russia. Yet neither Russians nor Ukrainians existed at that time as peoples or nations in the modern sense of the word. Kievan Rus was not a nation-state, just as there were no nation-states in medieval Europe. Putin adheres to the myth that nation and people are an eternal whole that has always existed. He understands nothing of the historically grounded socio-economic processes that gave rise to modern capitalist states. He does not explain why Russia did not evolve as a single nation-state but rather developed as a state encompassing many different nationalities, most of which were oppressed by tsarism and Great Russian chauvinism. Tsarist Russia had the reputation of being the prison of nations for a reason. In the tsarist empire, Russians made up only 43 percent of the population and Ukrainians about 17 percent. As Leon Trotsky noted in his History of the Russian Revolution: The greedy demands of the state and the meagerness of the peasant foundation under the ruling classes gave rise to the most bitter forms of exploitation. National oppression in Russia was incomparably rougher than in the neighboring states not only on its western but even on its eastern borders. The vast numbers of these nationalities deprived of rights, and the sharpness of their deprivation, gave to the national problem in czarist Russia a gigantic explosive force. (Leon Trotsky, History of the Russian Revolution, Vol. 2, Chapter 39) Acknowledging the importance of this, the Bolsheviks, many of whom hailed from national minorities themselves, advocated the right of nations to self-determination. Lenin understood that only by upholding this democratic demand could the Bolsheviks garner support from the masses of oppressed nationalities and achieve the international unification of workers of all nationalities. In the interview, Putin denounced Lenin for this very position. In a tacit acknowledgment of the democratic foundations of the USSR, he said: For some inexplicable reason, Lenin, the founder of the Soviet state, insisted that they have the right to withdraw from the USSR. And, again for some unknown reason, he transferred to the newly created Soviet Republic of Ukraine some of the lands with the people living there, although those lands had never been called Ukraine. These passages expose Putin as an enemy of everything that was progressive about the October Revolution and the creation of the Soviet Union. The Bolsheviks in the early Soviet Union encouraged the cultural development of Ukraine, as well as other oppressed nations. This attested to the immense democratic impetus of the revolution and was one of the central reasons why, even after the rise of Stalinism and the terror of the 1930s, the workers of Russia and Ukraine united in defense of the conquests of the October Revolution against the Nazi invasion of 1941. Stalinisms betrayal of Lenins internationalist and democratic principles regarding nationalities laid the groundwork for the violent outbreak of ethnic conflicts during the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the bureaucracys restoration of capitalism in 1991. In a notable admission, Putin stated in the interview, The collapse of the Soviet Union was actually initiated by the Russian leadership. The world is now witnessing the ramifications of that initiative: a fratricidal war resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians and Russians. Putin and the errors of imperialism: The Russian oligarchs seek peaceful coexistence The most striking aspect of Putins remarks was his effort to avoid any suggestion that US policies were rooted in definite economic and geopolitical interests. The policies of the Biden administration and NATO were trivialized as nothing more than regrettable mistakes. Putin could not understand why Washington rebuffed his appeals for friendship and understanding. Though presented with numerous opportunities to forcefully condemn the instigation of the war by the United States, Putin adopted a tone of bewilderment. When asked by Tucker Carlson about NATOs expansion into Russia, the bombing of the German-Russian Nord Stream pipeline and the US refusal to accept Russia into NATO, Putin responded with phrases like, I dont understand. According to Putin, the brutal policies of imperialist powers amount to a series of almost inexplicable mistakes that could easily be rectified if only one or two leaders saw the light. Putin recounted how, since 1991, Russian oligarchs have endeavored repeatedly to reconcile with the American ruling class. In 1991, he lamented, Russia expected to be embraced by the civilized nations but met with disappointment. He narrated how, even after the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia, he inquired whether Russia would be accepted into the alliance, only to be rebuffed once more by the US. As for the horrifying consequences of the Ukraine conflict, Putin displayed a striking indifference to the wars victims. Despite discussing the supposed unity of the Russian and Ukrainian peoples, he made no mention of the estimated 400,000 Ukrainians who have perished, nor did he condemn the criminal nature of imperialist policies that have devastated Ukraine and numerous other regions over the past three decades. The entire interview illustrates two things: First, Putin still clings to hopes for a fair deal with imperialism; and second, through his responses and the interview as a whole, he aims to lay the groundwork for initiating negotiations for such a deal, appealing to segments of the US ruling class to finally come to their senses and strike a deal with the oligarchs and Moscow. Factoring into these calculations is, no doubt, the fact that, as Putin observes in the interview, the West is afraid of a strong China more than it fears a strong Russia. Putin is always anxious to stress that the capitalist regime in Russia has totally repudiated not only economic but also political and theoretical links to the Soviet past. At one point in the interview he boasted of the bourgeois character of the ruling elite. But a consequence of his ostentatious repudiation of the past is an avoidance of any assessment of the war that might, even to the slightest extent, legitimize the early struggle of the Bolshevik regime, under the leadership of Lenin and Trotsky, against imperialism. The insights of Lenin dare not be repeated, such as the assessment the founder of Bolshevism gave of the underlying impulse behind imperialist wars: The question is: what means other than war could there be under capitalism to overcome the disparity between the development of productive forces and the accumulation of capital on the one side, and the division of colonies and spheres of influence for finance capital on the other? (Lenin, Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism 1916, Chapter 7) But while Putin repudiates the revolutionary heritage of the Soviet Union, his own conception of geopolitics remains heavily influenced by the Stalinist dogma of peaceful coexistence that he imbibed while serving, in the 1970s and 1980s, in the Stalinist secret police. As the Stalinist regime lunged toward capitalist restoration under Gorbachev (1985-1991), it mocked the concept of imperialism as a Bolshevik fabrication. In an analysis of Soviet foreign policy under Gorbachev, David North commented: The idea that the essential content of relations between imperialism and the Soviet Union is determined by the subjective attitudes of the political leaders of the different statesi.e., their desire for or hostility to cooperation and peaceignores the far more fundamental objective economic factors. Evaluated from the standpoint of its theoretical underpinnings, this subjective and fundamentally reactionary approach is based on the same metaphysical conceptions that have guided the policies of the Soviet bureaucracy since Stalin and Bukharin first advanced the perspective of building socialism in one country. (David North, Perestroika Versus Socialism: Stalinism and the Restoration of Capitalism in the USSR, Chapter 6, Labor Publications 1989) These seemingly irrational views had an objective basis in the material interests of the Soviet bureaucracy. North explained: The foreign policy of the Soviet government, like that of all other regimes in the world, arises organically out of the material interests of the ruling social elite, and, therefore, is a continuation of its domestic policy. Indeed, it is in the sphere of foreign policy that the fundamental interests and historic aims of the bureaucracy find their most concentrated and clear-cut expression. From this objective standpoint, the foreign policy of Mikhail Gorbachev is inseparably linked with the program of capitalist restoration that is being pursued by the Stalinist bureaucracy under the banner of perestroika. While the bureaucracy seeks to systematically undermine the state property relations within the Soviet Union, its foreign policy is aimed at integrating the USSR economically into the structure of world capitalism and its international division of labor. (David North, Perestroika Versus Socialism: Stalinism and the Restoration of Capitalism in the USSR, Chapter 5) Applying these insights to Putins foreign policy, we see that, despite its contradictions and delusional elements, it reflects the material interests of the oligarchy that arose from the bureaucracys restoration of capitalism. Its primary concern is to expeditiously reach an agreement with the imperialist powers, allowing it to safeguard what it perceives as its vital national interests in the exploitation of raw materials and the working class. From the perspective of the Russian oligarchy, the longer the war persists, the greater the risk of inciting a mass movement of workers in Russia, Ukraine, and beyond. This, rather than direct confrontation with imperialism or dismemberment of the country by the imperialist powers, constitutes the Russian oligarchys greatest apprehension. The reactionary logic of the Putin regimes orientation is accentuated by two central components of its foreign policy strategy: First, it seeks to reshuffle the borders of Russia and Europe as part of a renegotiation of the terms of its co-existence with imperialism. In the interview, Putin not only defends the invasion of Ukraine as a legitimate response to the borders created under Lenin, but also insists that other countries, especially Hungary, which has long-standing border disputes with Ukraine, have a right to reclaim land that they consider their own. Second, the regimes efforts to negotiate a settlement with imperialism are ever more overtly focused on appealing to the extreme right-wing opposition within the ruling class in the imperialist centers. In the interview, Putin once again asserted that the de-Nazification of Ukraine was a central objective of the war. By justifying the invasion with this slogan, Putin sought to appeal to the deep-seated anti-fascist sentiments of the working class and the collective memory of the Soviet working classs struggle against Hitlers aggression. However, Putins true stance on fascism was revealed in this interview. With a straight face, he stressed the importance of combating fascism with Tucker Carlson, a notorious mouthpiece of the far right. The way forward for the working class By resurrecting tsarist and Russian Orthodox mythology and advocating the neo-Stalinist concept of multipolarity, Putin ultimately demonstrates that the Russian oligarchy has maintained an exceedingly fragile social, economic and political position throughout its 30 years as a ruling class. The regimes extreme instability is evident in both its foreign and domestic policies. Even as imperialism escalates toward World War III, Putin attempts to secure a deal through diplomatic and military maneuvers that are ideologically based on appeals to nationalism and the far right. The interview serves as an indicative step in this process. The working class must draw important lessons from this interview. It exposes the political and historical bankruptcy of the oligarchic regime stemming from the Stalinist betrayal of the October Revolution and the subsequent restoration of capitalism. The bitter experience of two world wars demonstrates that imperialism cannot be transformed into an instrument of world peace. To avert catastrophe, the working class must formulate its response to the war on an independent and internationalist basis, in opposition to all factions of the imperialist powers and the oligarchies that emerged from the Soviet Unions ruins. It must seek not the reshuffling of borders or a rearrangement of terms between capitalist countries but the overthrow of the nation-state structure and the world capitalist system. What is imperative is the establishment of a socialist anti-war movement among youth and workers, grounded in the traditions and principles of internationalism and Marxism, namely Trotskyism. This is the goal pursued by the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists in Russia and Ukraine, alongside their comrades in the International Committee of the Fourth International. Sunday, as Algeria prepared to present a UN resolution against the Israeli regimes genocide in Gaza, the Paris police prefecture banned all protests related to Algeria. That day, a group of organizations including the Franco-Algerian Friendship Association had planned a march celebrating the martyrs of the 19541962 Algerian war for independence from France, as well as the hirak, the 2019 mass protests against Algerias military regime. The Paris prefecture announced: Due to the threat of grave dangers to public order, the police prefect is banning all protests planned for Sunday, February 18, commemorating the Chahid [martyrs] on the one hand, or the hirak on the other. This ban is a fundamental attack on democratic rights by the French police state. The struggle of Algerias workers and oppressed masses against French imperialism, which waged a war that cost a half-million lives and sent 2.5 million people to detention camps, was one of the great revolutionary experiences of the 20th century. Opposition to Algerias military regime, with its deep ties to imperialism, is a necessary continuation of this struggle. Above all, however, the police attack on the constitutionally protected right to protest aims to strangle working class opposition to the genocide in Gaza, as well as to imperialist war on Russia and capitalist dictatorship in Algeria and France. It takes place as mass protests against the Gaza genocide unfold in the United States, Europe and around the world. The police prefectures statement that the demonstration threatened public order was a provocative lie. The protest organizers proclaimed their intention to hold a peaceful protest, and then immediately agreed to the police ban. But more broadly, the ban amounts to an admission by the ruling class that it sees working class opposition to genocide and war as a revolutionary threat. WSWS journalists went to the site of the banned demonstration. They interviewed protest organizers, who were there to ask anyone who had come for the protest without seeing the ban, which was only announced at 12:15 a.m., to quietly go home. Amine Dib of the Franco-Algerian Friendship Association told the WSWS: We wanted to mobilize for the memory of martyrs of the Algerian revolution, which was above all a struggle against imperialism and colonialism. And among those struggles, there was Lieutenant [and Algerian Communist Party member Henri] Maillot, who was called a traitor for giving weapons to the National Liberation Front (FLN). He replied before his execution with a very beautiful letter saying, I never betrayed France. My only homeland is Algeria and the working class. Dib denounced the ban on protests against Gaza genocide: In France, there is an iron grip, a total ban. Judaism is a great tradition, and the Holocaust took place. But having suffered does not give one the right to massacre others I want it to be clear, for us, being anti-Zionist means being anti-nationalist and anti-fascist. Just as I am against Arab nationalism, I am against Zionism, very simply. The French ruling class, Dib said, wants to tell the French people that insulting Arabs and Muslims will improve your life. But we are the ones who get up and empty their trash cans every day. Nevertheless, Dib said his association was responsible and would obey the police ban on protests. He criticized the contrast between French police bans on peaceful protests and French support for Islamist militias in wars for regime-change in Libya, Syria and beyond: I will never understand why the French state supports Islamist terrorists But we, as Algerian citizens, we come from everywhere to protest. But we were banned from protesting. Dib stressed Algerian workers opposition to NATO wars in the Middle East and against Russia in Ukraine: For some time, they have been trying to trap Algeria to drag it into absurd wars like in Libya and Iraq. France signs various petitions and insults Algeria every day. But I am against war with Russia, no weapons should go to either Russia or Ukraine. Nevertheless, the interview with Dib sharply revealed the political problems raised by the struggle against genocide and imperialist war. This struggle requires the unification and revolutionary mobilization of the international working class, the only force capable of opposing capitalist police states. However, Dib opposed this position of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI), the leadership of the Trotskyist movement. Dib said he opposed Trotskyites. He called for patriotic opposition to imperialism, based on an attempt to reconcile his reading of Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik Party in the October Revolution, and the bourgeois existentialist philosopher Martin Heidegger. He proposed no strategy to oppose the French police states ban on protests in defense of Gaza. The necessary political foundation of a struggle against genocide and imperialism is the Trotskyist movements struggle against Stalinism and bourgeois nationalism. The October 1917 Revolution was founded on the theory of Permanent Revolution formulated by Leon Trotsky. The struggle against imperialism and for democratic rights requires a revolutionary struggle of the working class to take power and to build a socialist society on a world scale. The coming to power of Algerias current bourgeois nationalist regime in 1962 reflected the decades-long impact of the betrayals of this conception by the Stalinist bureaucracy and its theory of socialism in one country. The Popular Front Stalinism formed with the liberal bourgeoisie in France implied a rejection of revolutionary struggle against capitalism and French colonialism. The Popular Fronts support for colonial rule starting in 1934 discredited Stalinism and created an opening for the bourgeois-nationalist ancestors of todays Algerian regime. The ICFI and its French section, the Parti de legalite socialiste (PES), defends the continuity of Trotskyism against Stalinism and bourgeois nationalism. The ICFI was founded in 1953 in opposition to forces led by Michel Pablo and Ernest Mandel, who argued that Stalinists and bourgeois nationalists would provide the workers with revolutionary leadership. This argument was utterly exposed only three years later, in 1956. The Stalinist French Communist Party voted credits for the French war on Algerias bourgeois-nationalist National Liberation Front (FLN), which built Algerias current regime. Today, the PES opposes the Pabloite New Anticapitalist Party and all those who broke with the ICFI and Trotskyism, like the Lambertiste Workers Party (PT), to ally with Stalinist or social-democratic bureaucracies. It is irreconcilably hostile to their defense of various imperialist wars waged by France and its NATO imperialist alliesa policy these parties base on petty-bourgeois identity politics of race and gender. To justify his opposition to Trotskyism, Dib concisely summarized his bitter experiences with Pabloite middle class forces in the union bureaucracies. He said: Today the trade unions, whatever their colors, are no longer interested in the workers. They have become bourgeois bureaucracies. They cry about how hard it is to be bourgeois and Arab, bourgeois and black, bourgeois and lesbian or bourgeois and gay. Today the working class is being plunged into misery For them, it just means they can write theses at the University of Paris or the Institute for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences (EHESS). But this false identification of Trotskyism and Marxism with Pabloism must be rejected. The indubitable betrayals and crimes of the bureaucracies and the petty-bourgeois parties do not justify rejecting a Marxist perspective for the unification of the international working class in struggle against genocide and war. Those who argue otherwise try to write out of history the ICFIs struggle for Trotskyism against Pabloism. The PES insists that the necessarily international working class struggle against war and genocide cannot proceed on a patriotic basis. The workingmen have no country, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels explained in the Communist Manifesto 176 years ago. This remains the foundation of the necessary unification of workers around the world to take power out of the hands of the capitalist ruling elites who are plunging the world into genocide and war. Riyad Al-Maliki, minister of Foreign Affairs of the Palestinian National Authority, center, gives a statement outside the Peace Palace after the United Nations' highest court opened historic hearings, in The Hague, Netherlands, February 19, 2024. [AP Photo/Peter Dejong] The United States government vetoed another United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Israels onslaught on Gaza yesterday. This is the third time the Biden administration has exercised its unilateral veto power to shield Israels ongoing war of annihilation against the civilian population of Gaza. The fifteen-member Security Council was established after the Second World War with the power to enforce the UN Charter, regulate military action and impose sanctions against member states. It consists of 15 members, five of which are permanent and have the power to unilaterally veto any resolution: China, France, Russia, the UK and the US. Since October, nearly 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli onslaught on Gaza, 8,000 are missing, and 70,000 have been injured, many catastrophically. These figures are likely underestimates. As many as 1.9 million people, or four out of every five individuals in the entire Gaza strip, have become homeless as Israeli forces systematically lay waste to entire urban areas with massively destructive weapons. The survivors are being forced into smaller and smaller areas, where they are relentlessly massacred and terrorized by Israeli warplanes and snipers as supplies of food and medicine run out. The deliberate mass murder of Palestinian civilians in Gaza continues in defiance of world public opinion as well as a ceasefire resolution that was passed by a more than three-quarters majority in the UN General Assembly in December. Nor have Israel, the United States or their NATO allies been deterred by findings in January by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the highest judicial body under the UN Charter, that Israels operations in Gaza could plausibly fall under the 1948 Genocide Convention. As a pretext for voting against the latest ceasefire resolution yesterday, the Biden administration put forward a proposed alternative version of the resolution that was so vaguely worded as to be unintelligible. It evidently called for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza as soon as practicable, and disapproved of Israels plans to storm Rafah, where a million people have sought refuge, under current circumstances. At the same time the US was exercising its veto power on the Security Council, separate legal proceedings were underway in the ICJ that underscored the extent to which Israel has been flouting international law for decades in its drive to illegally occupy and annex Palestinian territory. Unlike the pending case before the ICJ that attracted global attention last month, accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention, the proceedings this week were part of a separate and earlier advisory proceeding originating from a UN General Assembly resolution passed at the end of December 2022. This resolution asked the ICJ, seated in The Hague (Netherlands), to address what legal consequences should arise from the ongoing violation by Israel of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, from its prolonged occupation, settlement and annexation of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem, and from its adoption of related discriminatory legislation and measures? As part of that case, the presentations on behalf of Palestine this week involved a precise exposition of the historical record. These presentations established that fully half the Palestinian people were massacred or driven off their land in the 1948 Nakba, after which their land was partitioned and half of it allocated to a new state that promptly extended it to 78 per cent by brute force. In 1967 Israel commenced its still-continuing occupation of the entirety of the remaining Palestinian territory. This process of incremental ethnic cleansing has continued to the present day, and nowhere is this seen more clearly than in the number of illegal settlers residing in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which has grown from roughly 424,000 in 2004 to some 700,000 settlers today. These fascistic armed groups of settlers perpetrate violence against Palestinians with impunity, enjoying the protection of the Israeli military and the sanction of the Israeli state. This conduct is plainly illegal on its face according to the same international legal principles that the United States, for example, invokes against Russia: It constitutes occupation and annexation of territory by unilateral force, in violation of the UN Charter as well as the purported principles of self-determination and national sovereignty. This history of violations of international law by Israel is so well-established that it was essentially taken for granted both in the underlying UN resolution and throughout the ICJ proceedings. In the year 2022, for example, the UN passed more resolutions condemning Israels violations of international law than it passed for international law violations against all other countries combined. Notwithstanding token references by successive US administrations to a purported two-state solution, the presentations on behalf of Palestine this week exhaustively established that ambitions to extend Israeli domination over the entirety of the area from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea have never been a secret in Israeli politics. Israeli Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs wrote in June of last year, referring to the occupied territories of Jerusalem and the West Bank by biblical designations: Judea and Samaria were not seized from a sovereign state recognized by international law, and the State of Israel has a right to impose its sovereignty over these areas as they comprise the cradle of history of the Jewish people and are an inseparable part of the Land of Israel. In August of last year, in a message broadcast on Israels Army Radio, Israels heritage minister stated: Sovereignty must be extended within the borders of the West Bank . . . to create international recognition that this place is ours. Far-right Israeli Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich, himself an illegal settler, went so far as to state in March of last year that theres no such thing as a Palestinian people. Previously, he had stated: We are here to stay. We will make it clear that our national ambition for a Jewish State from the river to the sea is an accomplished fact, a fact not open to discussion or negotiation. The historical facts presented at the ICJ are an overwhelming refutation of the efforts to present Israels ongoing operations in Gaza as a response to the events of October 7. In reality, the Israeli government did everything in its power to incite the desperate October 7 uprising by means of relentless provocations over a long period, while at the same time standing down its own troops in order to guarantee a pretext for setting in motion longstanding plans to impose Israeli sovereignty over the entirety of Gaza. The presentations at the ICJ, in particular, expose all of the efforts to brand the Palestinian slogan from the river to the sea as antisemitic as a tendentious inversion of reality. Unlike the proceedings that took place last month, in which the US government remained largely the subject only of tactful references, the Biden administration was directly subjected to humiliating rebuttals at the ICJ this week. Whatever offences against international law Israel commits, the United States comes forward to shield it from accountability, declared Paul Reichler, an American lawyer and member of the bar of the US Supreme Court, on behalf of Palestine. In its written submissions to the ICJ, Reichler said, Israel did not even bother to argue for the legality of its own conduct, instead accusing all of its critics of antisemitic bias. Even the US government could not bring itself to argue for the legality of Israels occupation and annexation of Palestinian territory, instead insisting that it is neither lawful nor unlawful. In addition to Israel and the US, the only other country to file a brief in support of Israel was Fiji. Reichler ridiculed the Biden administrations position, which is tantamount to a denial that there is any such thing as international law. Only in such a lawlessand United Nations Charter-lessworld could the Israeli occupation be described, Reichler said, as not unlawful. Reichlers scorching rebuttal recalls the famous words of US Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson at the Nuremberg trials. Referring to the high-level Nazi war criminals seated across the room from him, Jackson declared: [T]hese men are surprised that this is the law; they really are surprised that there is any such thing as law. These defendants did not rely on any law at all. Their program ignored and defied all law International law, natural law, German law, any law at all was to these men simply a propaganda device to be invoked when it helped and to be ignored when it would condemn what they wanted to do. The same words apply with full force to the perpetrators of genocide in the 21st century, including not just Netanyahu and his entire regime, but their blood-soaked accomplices in Washington, London, Paris and Berlin. The proceedings at the ICJ over the past two months fully expose the pretensions of the US-led NATO alliance to be upholding a so-called rules-based international order, as it threatens, bombs, and sanctions its way around the world in pursuit of global hegemony. When that same rules-based order is invoked against a US ally that is committing genocide in broad daylight, the NATO-aligned diplomats blink their eyes: Rules-based order, you say? Never heard of it. Americas veto of the ceasefire resolution, together with its defense of Israels genocide before the ICJ, will be massively unpopular around the world and, in particular, within the US itself. According to a recent Economist/YouGov poll, out of 18-29-year-olds in the US, 49 percent answered yes that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza, compared with 24 percent responding no. Among those of all ages who voted for Biden in 2020, 50 percent said yes, compared with 20 percent responding no. The US media, which is downplaying if not blacking out entirely the proceedings in the UN, is for its part currently engaged in a coordinated propaganda campaign focused on whipping up antipathy towards the undemocratic Russian government. But if there is a government in the world whose total imperviousness to the sentiments of its own population stands out at the moment, it is the regime headed by Biden, not Putin. No confidence can be placed in the institutions of the UN to bring the war criminals to justice, disarm the perpetrators and compensate the victims. The ICJ proceedings this week are part of a protracted legal process that is advisory in nature only, and which may not even reach a decision for several more months. Tellingly, last Friday, the ICJ rejected a request by South Africa in the Genocide Convention case for more urgent measures to restrain Israeli forces as they prepare to storm Rafah, instead simply restating Israels existing obligations under international lawknowing full well that Israel will ignore these admonitions, as it has been ignoring similar admonitions for decades. As Netanyahu himself said last month in a televised address, the onslaught will continue regardless of what decisions the ICJ may ultimately reach. No one will stop usnot The Hague, not the Axis of Evil and no one else. It is possible and necessary to continue until victory and we will do it. The developing global opposition to the Gaza genocidein the US, Israel, Europe, the Middle East and everywhere elsemust break away from all of the individuals, parties and institutions that have been discredited by their complicity or inaction, and take root instead in the united objective interest and growing mass movement of the international working class towards socialism. Alaska Energy Metals Corporation VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alaska Energy Metals Corporation (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: AKEMF) (AEMC or the Company) announces that it has been requested by OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTC Markets) to issue this statement about promotional activity concerning its common shares traded on the OTCQB market (operated by OTC Markets). On February 13, 2024, OTC Markets informed the Company that it became aware of certain promotional activities concerning the Company and its common shares traded on the OTCQB Marketplace, including the distribution of five (5) newsletter emails published by Future Money Trends, Wealth Research Group, Portfolio Wealth Global, and Crush the Street discussing the Company, its business, and the battery metals and nickel market generally (collectively, the Gold Standard Newsletters). On October 30, 2023, the Company entered into an advertising agreement with Gold Standard Media, LLC (Gold Standard), whereby Gold Standard, along with its affiliates, Future Money Trends LLC, Wealth Research Group LLC, Crush the Street, and Portfolio Wealth Global LLC (collectively, the Gold Standard Affiliates), would provide investor relations and advertising services to the Company. The Company was therefore aware of the Gold Standard Affiliates activities respecting the Company since October 30, 2023. Accordingly, the Gold Standard Newsletters were paid for by the Company through its engagement of Gold Standard. With respect to other marketing services providers engaged by the Company within the last 12 months, commencing on approximately July 15, 2023, the Company launched a marketing and investor relations program to raise awareness about Companys potential to uncover critical metals resources at its Nikolai nickel project in Alaska. The following is a list of the third-party providers (collectively, the Service Providers) engaged by the company to provide investor relations services, marketing, or other related services in the last twelve months. All listed contracts are active: Story continues Virtus Media Group, LLC. (DBA PB Alerts); 2686362 Ontario Corp (DBA Canacom or Deepdive); Apollo Shareholder Relations Ltd.; Triple Bull Consulting Inc. (DBA Momentum Letter); Super Charged Stocks Limited (DBA Market Mindset); Gold Standard Media, LLC; MMG Market Medium GmbH & Co.; Senergy Communications Capital Inc.; Energy & Gold Publishing Ltd. ; Final Edit Media and Public Relations Inc.; Canid Capital Corporation; Omni8 Communications Inc.; Junior Resource Investing.; Commodity Partners Inc.; Triomphe Holdings Ltd. (DBA Capital Analytica); Econ Corporate Services Inc. (DBA Investor Ideas); and Market Radius Capital Inc. The Company was therefore aware of the Service Providers activities respecting the Company since it began its marketing campaign on approximately July 15, 2023. The Service Providers are third-party marketing and advertising firms. The appointment of the Service Providers, the nature of the relationship between the Company and the Service Providers, as well as the compensation to be paid to the Service Providers were publicly disclosed in news releases on July 6, 2023, November 6, 2023, December 8, 2023, January 23, 2024, and January 30, 2024. All of which can be found under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). The Company provided the Service Providers with publicly available sources of information for its marketing materials and management reviewed and commented on the materials prepared by the Service Providers prior to their dissemination, including to ensure factual accuracy. The Company does not believe any of the statements in the marketing materials prepared by the Service Providers were materially false or misleading. A significant increase in the trading volume of the Companys common shares was noted by OTC Markets on February 12, 2024. The Company understands certain promotional activity coincided with increased trading activity in its common shares beginning on February 12, 2024. However, the Company does not believe the promotional activities were the primary factor in any increase in trading volume in its common shares. Rather, on February 12, 2024, the Company announced a major increase in its Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for its Eureka deposit at its Nikolai nickel project in Alaska. The Company believes that the favourable MRE results were the primary factor in the increased trading volume. None of the Companys management, directors or control persons have sold or purchased the Companys securities within the past 90 days. After an inquiry amongst the Service Providers, to managements knowledge, none of the Service Providers have sold securities of the Company within the past 90 days, except: An affiliate of Gold Standard, sold an aggregate of 1,289,500 common shares and purchased an aggregate of 270,000 common shares; and Entities controlled and directed by Commodity Partners Inc.s principals, Mario Vetro and Carson Seabolt, sold an aggregate of 2,381,082 common shares and purchased an aggregate of 1,958,500 common shares. The company has not at any point issued shares or convertible instruments allowing conversion to equity securities at prices constituting a discount to the current market rate at the time to any of the Service Providers, including investor relations or marketing firms. 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 near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the Nikolai Nickel 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 developing the Angliers 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 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. (Bloomberg) -- Aluminum and nickel advanced on speculation that a fresh wave of US sanctions against Russia may target metals and disrupt supplies. Most Read from Bloomberg US President Joe Biden said the US plans to unveil a major sanctions package against Moscow on Friday, although he wasnt specific about which industries would be affected. Traders have been on the lookout for new restrictions on Russian metals, which had escaped broad sanctions until the UK announced its own curbs in December. The proposed curbs would be designed to hold Russia responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexey Navalny, White House spokesperson John Kirby said. Aluminum futures rose as much as 3.4% on Wednesday, before paring some of the gain. Nickel climbed more than 3.5%. Prices are rising on the Biden news as investors are assessing the potential measures and impact, Li Jiahui, an analyst at Shanghai Metals Market, said by phone. Investors are awaiting for the specific measures to land. Read more: US to Announce Major Sanctions Friday Over Navalny Death In December, the UK moved to block British individuals and entities from trading physical metals including aluminum, copper and nickel from Russia. At the time, the UK also hinted at the possibility of coordinated action with international partners. UK policy is important because of the significant role played by the London Metal Exchange in global metals markets. Aluminum was up 1.3% at $2,221 a ton by 4:41 p.m. London time on the LME. Nickel rose 3.6%, while copper was up 0.5%. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Unveiling AstraZeneca PLC's Dividend Dynamics AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ:AZN) recently announced a dividend of $0.99 per share, payable on 2024-03-25, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-02-22. 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 AstraZeneca PLC's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. What Does AstraZeneca PLC Do? Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with AZN. 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? A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across several major therapeutic classes, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, immunology and rare diseases. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its revenue. A Glimpse at AstraZeneca PLC's Dividend History AstraZeneca PLC has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1993. Dividends are currently distributed on a bi-annually basis. AstraZeneca PLC has increased its dividend each year since 2013. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 11 years. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Breaking Down AstraZeneca PLC's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, AstraZeneca PLC currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.25% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.25%. This suggests an expectation of same dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, AstraZeneca PLC's annual dividend growth rate was 2.90%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 1.30% per year. And over the past decade, AstraZeneca PLC's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 2.60%. Story continues Based on AstraZeneca PLC's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of AstraZeneca PLC stock as of today is approximately 2.40%. AstraZeneca PLC'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 2023-12-31, AstraZeneca PLC's dividend payout ratio is 0.78, which may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. AstraZeneca PLC's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks AstraZeneca PLC's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2023-12-31, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability. Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. AstraZeneca PLC's growth rank of 8 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and AstraZeneca PLC's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. AstraZeneca PLC's revenue has increased by approximately 15.40% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 78.06% of global competitors. The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, AstraZeneca PLC's earnings increased by approximately 27.10% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 71.62% of global competitors. Engaging Conclusion: Assessing Dividend Viability In conclusion, AstraZeneca PLC's forthcoming dividend, alongside its history of consistent payouts and moderate growth, presents an attractive proposition for income-focused investors. However, the relatively high payout ratio warrants a cautious approach, as it may indicate potential challenges in sustaining dividend growth over the long term. With its strong profitability and growth metrics, AstraZeneca PLC appears to be in a good position to maintain its dividend payments, but investors should continue to monitor these indicators to ensure ongoing viability. Will AstraZeneca PLC continue to be a reliable source of dividends for value investors? Only time will tell, but the current signs are promising. GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Hispanolistic / Getty Images For many Americans, retirement savings are coming up short. While financial advisors/experts and commentators often recommend investors to shoot for a nest egg of at least $1 million, there is not a single state in which the average retirement balance is even close to that figure, according to data from Personal Capital. In fact, the highest average balance in any state Connecticut- barely tops $500,000. Here are some other highlights from the research done by Personal Capital: The wealthiest state in terms of average retirement savings is Connecticut, at $545,754, with Alaska and Vermont following closely at $503,822 and $494,569, respectively. North Dakotas average retirement savings of $319,609 are the lowest in the country. Average retirement savings, not surprisingly, rise with age. The average balance for those 45 to 52 is $179,200, rising to $256,244 for those 55 to 64 and $279,997 for those already retired. Among ethnic groups, white household groups have the highest median retirement savings, at $79,500, with Latinx households having the lowest at $23,000. Men on average have more than double the retirement savings of women, at a median of $91,000 vs. $43,000. Find Out: Retirement Planning: How Much the Average Person 65 and Older Spends Monthly Try This: Do This To Earn Guaranteed Growth on Your Retirement Savings (With No Risk to Your Investment) While there are numerous factors dragging down the averages, perhaps the biggest is simply the low participation rate Americans have when it comes to retirement accounts. According to the Federal Reserves Survey of Consumer Finances, only 54% of Americans even had a retirement account in 2022. This means that nearly half of Americans didnt have a retirement account at all. As the average Social Security payout for retired workers was just $1,909.01 as of January 2024, this leaves a lot of ground to make up. Simple math shows that the power of compounding returns makes building a seven-figure account balance easier the younger you are. But its never too late to start. If youre already in your 30s, 40s or even 50s, youll be playing catch-up for sure, but there are some steps you can take to leverage your savings rate. Story continues The first is to begin contributing as much as you can by making some changes to your budget and lifestyle. Prioritize your retirement plan by saving first and then living off your remaining funds, rather than trying to save whats left over after all your spending. No matter how tight your budget is, you can always turn up a few extra dollars somewhere. Eating out less, trimming your streaming subscriptions, even walking to work or taking public transportation may save you enough to help fund a viable retirement plan. For an even bigger impact, consider downsizing your home, moving to a cheaper location in town or even living in another state. These types of steps could potentially save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars off your monthly budget. Next, take advantage of the many advantages that retirement accounts offer. All tax-advantaged accounts, from traditional and Roth IRAs to 401(k) plans, offer tax-deferred growth while your money is in the account, and Roth IRAs also allow for qualified tax-free distributions. Money you take out of a traditional IRA or 401(k) is fully taxable, but youll get a tax break on the money you contribute. And 401(k) plans offer the closest thing there is to free money in the form of the employer match, in which your company will deposit a certain percentage of your own contributions directly into your account. All of these factors can help to ramp up your balance quickly. But the benefits dont stop there. Once you reach age 50, the IRS allows you to kick in even more to your retirement accounts. For example, if you have an IRA account, in addition to the maximum allowable contribution of $7,000 for tax year 2024, you can sock away another $1,000 if youre 50 or over. For a 401(k) plan, the benefit is even greater. On top of 2024s maximum contribution of $23,000, youre allowed a catch-up contribution of $7,500, meaning you can put up to $30,500 per year in your 401(k). Where you live can also play a big role in terms of how far you can stretch your retirement savings. While North Dakota may have the lowest average retirement savings of any state, at $319,609, it also has a very low cost of living compared with states like Connecticut or Hawaii. A nest egg even a few hundred thousand dollars less may be enough to live a comfortable retirement in these types of states, or even in lower-cost areas of more expensive states. Lastly, deferring your retirement date by even a few years can pay big dividends when it comes to the quality of your retirement lifestyle. With more years to earn, youll have both more time and more income to contribute to your investment accounts, which in turn will have more time to compound in value. Working longer can also potentially raise your ultimate Social Security benefit, as its based in part on your 35 highest-earning years. Waiting to file for benefits past the current full retirement age of 67 can also boost your payout by a significant 8% per month for each year, up until age 70. With all of these factors in mind, heres a look at the average retirement account balances on a state-by-state basis, as determined by Personal Capital. Sean Pavone / Getty Images/iStockphoto Alabama Average retirement balance: $395,563 Check Out: 10 Worst Places in Illinois for a Couple To Live on Only a Social Security Check Read More: 9 Ways Frugal Retirees Spend Their Social Security Checks Sponsored: $20k or more in credit card debt? Lower the amount you owe in just 3 simple steps. Alaska Average retirement balance: $503,822 Discover More: Heres the Cost To Retire Comfortably in Every State by Age Arizona Average retirement balance: $427,418 Arkansas Average retirement balance: $364,395 California Average Retirement Balance: $452,135 Colorado Average Retirement Balance: $449,719 Read Next: Why Floridas Retirees Are Fleeing And Where Theyre Going Instead Connecticut Average Retirement Balance: $545,754 Delaware Average Retirement Balance: $454,679 Florida Average Retirement Balance: $428,997 Georgia Average Retirement Balance: $435,254 Explore More: 3 Ways Upper-Middle-Class Retirees Stay Rich in Retirement Hawaii Average Retirement Balance: $366,776 Idaho Average Retirement Balance: $437,396 Illinois Average Retirement Balance: $449,983 Indiana Average Retirement Balance: $405,732 Discover More: 10 Ways for Retirees To Cut Back on Expenses in 2024 Iowa Average Retirement Balance: $465,127 Kansas Average Retirement Balance: $452,703 Kentucky Average Retirement Balance: $441,757 Read More: 9 Things Frugal Retirees Never Waste Money On Louisiana Average Retirement Balance: $386,908 Maine Average Retirement Balance: $403,751 Maryland Average Retirement Balance: $485,501 Massachusetts Average Retirement Balance: $478,947 Find Out: How a Trump Win in 2024 Could Impact Your Retirement Savings Michigan Average Retirement Balance: $439,568 Minnesota Average Retirement Balance: $470,549 Mississippi Average Retirement Balance: $347,884 Missouri Average Retirement Balance: $410,656 Learn More: Suze Orman: Parents, Get Roth IRAs for Your Kids So They Can Retire Millionaires Montana Average Retirement Balance: $390,768 Nebraska Average Retirement Balance: $404,650 Nevada Average Retirement Balance: $379,728 New Hampshire Average Retirement Balance: $512,781 Check Out: Ramit Sethi: 5 Easy Steps To Getting Rich in 2024 New Jersey Average Retirement Balance: $514,245 New Mexico Average Retirement Balance: $428,041 New York Average Retirement Balance: $382,027 North Carolina Average Retirement Balance: $464,104 Explore More: The 5 Levels of Wealth and How To Get There North Dakota Average Retirement Balance: $319,609 Ohio Average Retirement Balance: $427,462 Oklahoma Average Retirement Balance: $361,366 Oregon Average Retirement Balance: $452,558 Read Next: 6 Ways To Build Wealth in Less Than Five Years Pennsylvania Average Retirement Balance: $462,075 Rhode Island Average Retirement Balance: $392,622 South Carolina Average Retirement Balance: $449,486 South Dakota Average Retirement Balance: $449,628 For You: Grant Cardone: Heres How To Become Rich If Youre Earning an Average Salary Tennessee Average Retirement Balance: $376,476 Texas Average Retirement Balance: $434,328 Utah Average Retirement Balance: $315,160 Vermont Average Retirement Balance: $494,569 Try This: How Rare Coins Can Fund Your Early Retirement Dreams Virginia Average Retirement Balance: $492,965 Washington Average Retirement Balance: $469,987 Washington D.C., Average Retirement Balance: $347,582 West Virginia Average Retirement Balance: $370,532 Find Out: 7 Best Cars for Retirees on a Budget Wisconsin Average Retirement Balance: $448,975 Wyoming Average Retirement Balance: $381,133 More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Average Retirement Savings in Every State ABC must face religious discrimination claims from two former General Hospital crewmembers who sued the network after they were fired for refusing the COVID-19 vaccination, marking one of the first rulings to clear the way for trial over terminations caused by blanket vaccine mandates widely imposed by studios amid the pandemic. A Los Angeles judge, in an order issued Tuesday, found that James and Timothy Wahl may have had sincerely held religious beliefs that ABC should have accommodated by affording them exemptions and allowing them to follow safety protocols implemented before mandatory vaccination policies were rolled out. More from The Hollywood Reporter The ruling comes on the heels of ABC defeating a similar lawsuit from Ingo Rademacher over his dismissal from General Hospital for refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Unlike with crewmembers who were not in close, unmasked contact with others, the court found in that case that it was impossible for unvaccinated actors to safely work on set during the pandemic due to the nature of their work. ABC was among several studios that in the summer of 2021 carried out vaccine mandates, which were agreed upon by Hollywoods guilds and studios. The return-to-work protocols stated that vaccines could be required for those working in Zone A of a production typically a projects main actors, as well as key crewmembers who work closely with them in the highest-risk areas of the set. In 2022, father and son James and Timothy Wahl, both of whom worked in the special effects department for the show, sued ABC after their requests for religious exemptions were denied. The rejections were based on ABCs uncertainty as to whether their objections to taking the vaccine were based on their Christian faith. ABC argued that the Wahls did not have genuine religious beliefs and that, even if they did, it could not have accommodated them without undue hardship. It also claimed that IATSE waived any rights members had to object to mandatory vaccination policies. Ruling against ABC on summary judgment, the court concluded that the studio may have discriminated against the Wahls on the basis of their religion by failing to find a workaround for their refusal to get vaccinated. On this issue, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Stephen Goorvitch sided with ABC in the suit from Rademacher. He pointed to the actors refusal to cooperate with Disney officials in the process of probing whether he should be exempted from vaccine mandates as a follower of a book called The Revelation of Ramala. Unlike in that case, the court found a jury should decide whether the Wahls were genuine in their beliefs. In a deposition, Disney ABC TV Group vp production Dominick Nuzzi testified that he became involved in the accommodation process once a request was accepted and that he participated in discussions of whether to grant an exemption to one of the Wahls but ultimately decided against it. This testimony suggests that Defendant may have initially believed one of the plaintiffs, which supports both cases: Plaintiffs are father and son, and there is sufficient evidence in the record that they share the same belief system, the order stated. The court also found that ABC could have afforded the Wahls accommodations without undue financial or logistical hardship. In the suit from Rademacher, Goorvitch concluded such workarounds for the actor are not possible because he interacted with other performers onstage, requiring him to come into close proximity to them without a mask, which endangered their safety. This decision is consistent with other cases in which courts have found that actors cannot be accommodated with pre-vaccine protocols because the nature of their work requires close, unmasked contact with other performers, the judge wrote in the order. By contrast, the Wahls largely worked behind the scenes, running the construction and special effects shops for the show. While they periodically had to go to Zone A of the production, where the principal cast was filming, they tested regularly for COVID-19, always wore a mask and did their best to socially distance from the cast, they attested. A reasonable accommodation, the court said, could have been allowing the Wahls to follow safety protocols that were in effect from July 2020 to the fall of 2021, before vaccine mandates were instituted. During this time, the General Hospital production did not have an outbreak of the virus, lawyers for the crewmembers claimed. The Courts hands are tied, as they say, the order stated. There are enough disputed facts that the jury, not the judge, must decide whether Plaintiffs could have been accommodated without an undue hardship to Defendant. In a win for ABC, the court also found that ABC does not have to face a claim for invasion of privacy. Last year, the Wahls dropped claims for disability discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination. ABC did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In another suit from an actor challenging his termination after being refused a vaccine exemption, a federal judge dismissed some claims from Rockmond Dunbar. U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee ruled that producers Disney and 20th Television did not have to face a disparate impact claim, which accused them of advancing a vaccination policy discriminating against followers of the Church of Universal Wisdom. They still face several other claims. One consistency across lawsuits against Disney and its affiliates has been the way the company is portrayed as handling requests for religious exemptions. It appears that the interviews vetting the requests are conducted by Disney lawyers, who look into the backgrounds of the individuals who are requesting exemptions. Dunbars religious exemption was denied because he had previously received tattoos and ear piercings in violation of his beliefs as a member of the Church of Universal Wisdom. Rademachers exemption was denied, in part, on his religion lacking any of the formal signs of religious institutions and ABCs belief that his opposition to getting the vaccine was rooted in health or efficacy concerns rather than his faith, according to court filings in the case. This embedded content is not available in your region. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Festival season doesn't officially begin until the warmer months, but despite the chill nipping at your noses, Jack Frost has a couple of celebrations up his sleeve this weekend. For the 21 and older crowd, the return of the Winter Wine Festival will offer attendees more than two dozen wines to sample and their very own commemorative glass to take home. If free family fun is more your speed, the Community Lantern Festival on Sunday will feature dance performances, games, craftmaking and other activities celebrating Chinese culture. At another free kid-friendly event on Sunday, Bexley author Maggie Smith will debut her children's picture book, "My Thoughts Have Wings." If you're in a musical mood, there's a variety of styles to satisfy your needs, including the grungy teen spirit of Chicago's Smells Like Nirvana. So bundle up warmly to get out and enjoy these and other events listed below. To receive these ideas in your inbox each week, sign up for the Life in the 614 newsletter. The Chicago-based tribute band Smells Like Nirvana will get grungy Friday night at The King of Clubs. Tribute band to conjure up Nirvana's spirit If you're a fan of distortion-filled, riff-based rock and angsty, introspective lyrics, then "Come As You Are" to The King of Clubs, 6252 Busch Blvd., for a night of grunge when Smells Like Nirvana takes the stage at 7 p.m. Friday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Billed as "Chicago's grungiest tribute to Nirvana," the trio features Paul Wandtke (vocals/guitar), Mike Petrasek (bass) and Joe Babiak (drums). Standing floor tickets cost $20, plus a service fee. There is a 10-ticket limit per customer. (tkoc.live) Rise Up Arts Alliance will tickle audiences' funny bones with the satirical tribute "Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits" this weekend and next at the Lancaster Masonic Temple. Rise Up to parody Broadway hits Experience the Great White Way in a whole new way with Rise Up Arts Alliance's production of "Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits." With hilarious lyrics, this entertaining, loving tribute to some of theater's biggest stars and songwriters satirizes musicals including "Chicago," "Phantom of the Opera," "Fiddler on the Roof" and others. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and March 1-2; and 1 p.m. Sunday and March 3 at the Lancaster Masonic Temple, 224 S. High St., Lancaster. Ticket prices start at $10 general admission and $8 for senior citizens and military, depending on seating. (riseuparts.ludus.com/200446878) Artisans, food and more than 30 wines will be offered at the Columbus Winter Wine Festival, which takes place on Saturday at Brewmasters Gate. Winter Wine Festival back from 2020 After a successful debut in 2020, the Columbus Winter Wine Festival is back by popular demand! Set to take place on Saturday in two sessions noon to 4 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. at Brewmasters Gate, 495 S. Front St., the fest will feature more than 30 wines plus food trucks and artisan vendors. Advance tickets cost $30 per session; tickets at the gate will be $35 per session. Each admission includes 10 wine sampling tickets and a commemorative wine glass. Additional wine tasting tickets can be purchased on-site. Attendees must be 21 or older with valid government-issued ID. (columbuswinefest.com) Chamber Music Columbus will present the Isidore Quartet on Saturday at the Southern Theatre. New York quartet coming to Columbus Chamber Music Columbus invites you to hear an ensemble with a mission of "approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established." The Isidore String Quartet, winners of the 14th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2022, will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St. The foursome's program will include works by Johann Sebastian Bach and Benjamin Britten, among others. Ticket prices start at $35.24. Children 17 and younger can receive discounted tickets for all Chamber Music Columbus performances by calling 614-469-0939 or at the CBUSArts Ticket Center. 39 E. State St. (cbusarts.com) Community Arts Network's historical musical "Camp Delaware" will be performed on Saturday at the Ohio Wesleyan University Chappelear Drama Center. Historical musical to set up 'Camp' Community Arts Network, a Black-owned nonprofit devoted to empowering the next generation of performing artists, will give theatergoers a look at the Civil War from a different perspective that of a Black soldier heading off to fight against slavery in "Camp Delaware." The historical musical will be performed at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday at the Ohio Wesleyan University Chappelear Drama Center, 45 Rowland Ave., Delaware. Tickets cost $20 general admission and $10 for students, available online or at the door. Proceeds will go toward scholarships for Black graduates pursuing higher education in the performing arts. (campdelawareusct.org) Singer-songwriter Richard Shindell will perform at the next Six String Concerts show on Saturday at the Columbus School for Girls' Agnes Jeffrey Shedd Theater. Six String to present musical storyteller Richard Shindell, whose songs range from lighthearted ballads to diatribes skewering politics, prejudice, war and religion, will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Agnes Jeffrey Shedd Theater at Columbus School for Girls, 56 S. Columbia Ave, Bexley. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. for this show presented by Six String Concerts. Shindell has opened for Joan Baez, who also has covered several of his songs. General admission tickets cost $35 online. Youth tickets cost $5 for ages 17 and younger and can be reserved by emailing info@sixstring.org; payment can be made at the door. (sixstring.org) Guests can learn about maple sugaring while taking a walking tour during Maple Syrup Days on Saturday and Sunday at The Dawes Arboretum in Newark. Dawes to host Maple Syrup Days Learn about the history and process of maple sugaring by taking a guided walking tour during Maple Syrup Days at The Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Road, Newark. The tours, which last about 45 minutes each, will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with the final tour beginning at 2:45 p.m. At the end of the Maple Syrup Trail, guests will visit the arboretum's log cabin, where they can sample the sweet, all-natural treat. Tours are first-come, first-served and included in admission, which is free to members, $10 for those 16 and older and $5 for children 5 to 15. Children younger than 5 are admitted free. (dawesarb.org) ProMusica Chamber Orchestra will perform two "Bach & Friends" concerts as part of its Neighborhood Series on Saturday at the Worthington United Methodist Church and on Sunday at St. Mary Catholic Church. 'Bach & Friends' on ProMusica program ProMusica Chamber Orchestra will present the program Bach & Friends as part of its Neighborhood Series at 7 p.m. Saturday at Worthington United Methodist Church, 600 High St., Worthington, and at 4 p.m. Sunday at St. Mary Catholic Church, 700 S. 3rd St. Doors will open an hour before the concert start time. In addition to Bach's "Double Concerto for Oboe and Violin" and "Brandenburg Concerto No. 5," the program will include works by Mendelssohn and Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov. Tickets cost $32 general admission and $12 for students. (promusicacolumbus.org) Local author and New York Times bestselling author Maggie Smith will read and discuss her first children's book on Sunday at the Bexley Public Library. Maggie Smith to discuss children's book New York Times bestselling author and hometown poet Maggie Smith will present her first children's picture book, "My Thoughts Have Wings," during a family-friendly event from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Bexley Public Library, 2411 E. Main St. Describe as "lyrical" and "perfect for calming active minds at bedtime (or anytime)," the book will be available at the event. The library has partnered with Gramercy Books of Bexley for this free program. Online registration is required to attend. (bexley.libnet.info/event/9519721) The lion and dragon dances will be a highlight of the Community Lantern Festival, a celebration of Chinese culture to be held on Sunday at Hubbard Elementary School. Festivities to celebrate Chinese culture Celebrate the Lunar New Year with colorful performances, learning about Chinese traditions, games and making your own dumplings and crafts at the annual Community Lantern Festival to take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Hubbard Elementary School, 104 W. Hubbard Ave. As part of the school's language curriculum, students study Mandarin and the festival serves to reinforce their understanding of Chinese culture. A highlight will be the lion and dragon dances, which combine music, art, history and martial arts. Food trucks from Capital Ramen and Ninja Bowl will be parked in the Hubbard parking lot during the event. (614-365-5564) bpaschal@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: 10 things to do in Columbus this weekend Beyonce has hit a new high with her new country song Texas Hold Em. Although much hay has been made about the single, it debuted in the No. 1 position on Billboards Hot Country Songs chart which tallies streaming, airplay and sales. According to Rolling Stone, the former Destinys Child frontwoman holds the distinction as the first Black woman artist ever to top [the chart] in the modern history of country music. 16 Carriages, which also dropped after the premiere of Beyonces Verizon commercial during Super Bowl LVIII entered the ranking at No. 9. As buzz builds for the March 29 release of Beyonces country album, Renaissance: Act II, scuttlebutt has also ensued. Two days after Texas Hold Em hit streaming platforms, a small Oklahoma radio station came under fire for denying a listeners request to play Beyonces new song as they are a country music station. According to general manager Roger Harris, KYKC received over 2,000 emails and 1,000 calls from fans of the 32-time Grammy Award record-holder, with some calling the decision racist. Adding to the fervor, actor John Schneider spoke dismissively about Beyonces effort to do country music, saying it was no different than a dog leaving its scent on the land. Theyve got to make their mark, the 63-year-old former Dukes of Hazzard star said during an offbeat appearance on right-wing media station One American News. Just like a dog in a dog walk park. You know, every dog has to mark every tree, right? So thats whats going on here. The BeyHive quickly stormed to social media to denounce Schneiders remarks as racist and hateful. And in an op-ed article for Time magazine, writer Taylor Crumpton posited: It is time for the institutional oppressive regimes of country music to be removed, and for those who have continued to carry on the legacy of countrys music heart and soul to be seated at the table. But Beyonces two new songs arent her first foray into country music. Her critically acclaimed 2016 opus, Lemonade, spawned the hit single Daddy Lessons, which she later performed with the Dixie Chicks at the CMA Awards. Its been 10 years since MauritanianMalian director Abderrahmane Sissako last directed a film (2014s Timbuktu, a devastating account of life under Jihadi rule in contemporary Mali), but his much-anticipated return is suffused with a lightness that belies the long wait. A soft-focus romantic drama that channels some of the same humanism that steeped its way into Timbuktu, Black Tea finds Sissako applying his empathetic gaze towards the service of a much gentler vision. It starts with a prologue of sorts set on the Ivory Coast. Aya (Nina Melo), an Ivorian woman in her thirties, is about to get married but has just discovered that her future husband has been unfaithful. In a memorable opening image, a black insect walks through the folds of her white dress an ominous fly in the ointment as she waits for the nuptials to begin, her face twisting with uncertainty. At the altar, she astonishes her family by refusing to say I do, choosing instead to walk out of the wedding and onto the streets outside. More from IndieWire The film then jumps forward in time, rejoining Aya in Guangzhou, where she is now living in Chocolate City, a lively Afro-Chinese community where a makeshift family has formed amongst the quarters multi-generational, mixed heritage business owners. Aya has taken a job at a fine tea shop where she has quickly formed a bond with her boss, Cai (Han Chang), who is teaching her the rituals of the Chinese tea ceremony. Drawn together by their passion for tea and by many longing glances over the top of steaming clay cups, Cai and Aya begin to pursue a tentative romance. Alas, their budding relationship is threatened by unresolved traumas from both of their pasts, including Cais tension with the ex-wife Ying (Wu Ke-Xi), and his estrangement from the love child he fathered during a marriage-ending affair with a Cape Verdean woman. One of the films greatest strengths is the multi-stranded portrait it offers of a diaspora not widely seen on screen, at least by European audiences. Guangzhou has a history of African migration which stems back to the economic boom of the 1990s, and these migrants now form a sizable minority, approximately 2 percent of the population of Chinas third-largest city, making them the biggest African community in Asia. By locating his film within this diaspora, Sissako gestures towards this larger geo-political story, demonstrating how shifting global economic power is reshaping the face of contemporary China. In Black Tea, Sissako encapsulates this shifting balance smartly through a sequence in which an Arab businessman navigates the wholesale markets of Guangzhou, negotiating for the best prices on lacy underwear through an interpreter, who elegantly translates across two different business cultures. Migrant experience has long been a preoccupation for Sissako, whose work often reflects on the bittersweetness of diasporic life. In Waiting for Happiness (2002), a student returns to Mauritania after studying abroad and finds he can hardly remember the local Arabic dialect, while in Life on Earth (1998), the filmmaker himself plays an emigre, a fictional version of himself, who returns from France to a small town in Mali. In Black Tea, Ayas migrant story forms the trunk from which other incidental tales of cross-cultural life, love, and loss branch away; from Yings moment of unexpected connection with a French woman in a bar, to the story of Cais Cape Verdean daughter learning Chinese in tribute to a father she has never met. Sissako is skilled at capturing the unexpected alliances that can form in immigrant communities, where many different backgrounds are thrown together without much in common than a shared homeland. Scenes set in an African salon, where Aya is greeted like a sister and an endless queue of Chocolate City locals sit idly chatting, are wonderfully captured. Some of the films most effective moments, such as an impromptu a cappella sing-along in the salon and an Afro-pop-inflected dance class attended by Cais son Li-Ben (Michael Chang), use music to bring this cultural melting pot to vivid life. Sissakos work has always been more driven by poetry, implication, and subtext than it has by traditional plot. Aya tells a friend early on that, in order to make real tea, you have to wait, a plea for patience that could have come directly from the filmmaker himself. Black Tea has many lyrical moments, but sometimes the formlessness of the narrative proves frustrating. At times, the film buckles under the weight of our expectations, struggling to balance the genre tropes of romantic drama with Sissakos interest in offering a 360-degree snapshot of multi-cultural life. Although Melo makes for a charismatic protagonist, the many characters and subplots can feel overwhelming, and its not always easy to unpick the many tangled relationships. A diversion to Cape Verde yields some gorgeous scenery and a lovely sequence of musicians performing fado (more cross-cultural heritage), but feels tacked on and inconsequential. All this noise makes for an intriguing ambience, but it also distracts from the love story between Cai and Aya, which means that we cant fully emotionally invest in that central relationship. As a result, the films other key themes love, betrayal and forgiveness recede into the background, never quite landing with the profound weight we might hope for from a filmmaker of such proven brilliance. Despite the deep potential resonance of the subject matter, that lack of emotional stakes also extends to Sissakos exploration of migrant experience. Toward the end of the film, the arrival of Cais racist in-laws prompts a reckoning between Cai and Aya, which points towards the discrimination both explicit and implicit experienced by many Africans in China. The introduction of this element, so late in the day, offers an intriguing alley not otherwise explored. While its good to see a portrait of diaspora that doesnt focus only on racism and xenophobia, it would perhaps have added another emotional dimension if this were explored more deeply elsewhere. In one scene of gentle seduction, Cai describes to Aya the magic of black tea, a variety that initially delivers one flavor before yielding a whole other aroma as it is drunk. For all its comforting warmth, Sissakos film ultimately lacks the deeper complexity of its namesake, even if watching it is often as soothing as sipping a freshly brewed cup. Grade: B- Black Tea premiered at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival. It is currently seeking U.S. distribution. Best of IndieWire Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. CNN made House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) squirm on Wednesday when a star correspondent confronted him for previously touting the discredited Biden bribery claims made up by indicted FBI informant Alexander Smirnov. Jordan, who has been spearheading the GOPs impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, said just last month that Smirnovs assertion that the president received a $5 million bribe from a Ukrainian oligarch was the most corroborating evidence Republicans had against Biden. Last week, however, Smirnov was charged by the Justice Department for lying to the FBI when he made those bribery allegations, which were memorialized in an FD-1023 report. The DOJ later noted that after Smirnov was arrested, he admitted that officials associated with Russian intelligence were involved in passing a story about the presidents son Hunter Biden and Burisma, the Ukrainian gas company he worked for. Jim Jordan said recently the "most corroborating evidence we have is that 1023 form from this highly credible confidential human source" Asked Jordan this AM about indictment charging the source made up Biden bribery scheme and had told FBI that Russian intel was behind claim pic.twitter.com/5CpjYaPZNR Manu Raju (@mkraju) February 21, 2024 With House Republicans describing the FD-1023 as the heart of their impeachment case against Biden and right-wing media relentlessly promoting it for months, CNN chief congressional correspondent Manu Raju pressed Jordan to weigh in on Smirnovs arrest and that the informants claims were based on Russian intelligence. The MAGA lawmaker immediately attempted to pivot, claiming that it doesnt change the four fundamental facts behind his impeachment push, which is essentially just a rehashing of the debunked theory that led to former President Donald Trumps first impeachment. Rattling off his four fundamental facts, a well-worn talking point he has been repeating ad nauseam for years, Jordan concluded by insisting then-Vice President Biden did Burismas bidding by pressuring Ukraine to fire a corrupt prosecutor. In previous instances, however, Jordan had said his facts lent credence to Smirnovs bribery allegations. Raju, meanwhile, reminded the Ohio Republican that he has recently told Fox News that the 1023 is the most corroborating piece of information and was from a highly credible confidential human source. A sputtering Jordan shot back that the new revelations about the informants claims still doesn't change those fundamental facts, prompting a shocked Raju to interject: But its not true! The Judiciary chairman then countered with what appears to be the growing narrative in pro-Trump circlesthat the FBI is at fault for giving credibility to Smirnovs unsubstantiated allegations. DOJ Accuses One of GOPs Key Biden Impeachment Witnesses of Lying This source was a paid source by the FBI. When we were trying to get the 1023, they told us this could jeopardize national security, and the safety of this source, Jordan exclaimed. They didnt want to release it! And now theyre saying he gave false information. (The feds, in fact, initially did not want to publicly release the FD-1023 largely because Smirnovs claims were unverified.) But your promotion of a bribery scheme was false, the CNN reporter retorted, leading Jordan to say, Not at all, while once more leaning on his four facts talking point. What Smirnov said is not true; you at least concede that? Raju fired back. Well, yeah, thats what the FBI is saying, Jordan shrugged. 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. CPH: DOX, Copenhagens International Documentary Festival, has set the full lineup for its 2024 edition, including 84 world premieres, 32 international premieres, and 9 European premieres. Running March 13-24, the festival will feature six competition categories: Dox: Award, F: Act Award, Nordic: Dox Award, Next: Wave Award, New: Vision Award, and the new Human: Rights Award. More from Deadline Musician Pete Doherty will attend the festival for a screening of Peter Doherty: Stranger in My Own Skin. The event will take place on March 18 at Bremen Theater, when he and the films director Katia de Vidas who became Dohertys wife over the ten years she followed him with her camera openly discuss the substance abuse that has shadowed his entire career. After the screening, Doherty will give an acoustic concert. Other high-profile titles include Lana Wilsons Look Into My Eyes, Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaws Gaucho Gaucho, Carla Gutierrezs Frida, Yance Fords Power, and Gary Hustwits Eno, the definitive documentary about Brian Eno. The festival has said this years lineup has been shaped around the themes of body politic, geopolitics, and territorial disputes, with a particular focus on the conflict in Gaza. Seven films this year explore what the festival described as Israel-Palestine conflict, including three world premieres. Tal Bardas I Shall Not Hate world premiering in the festivals new Human Rights Competition. Other films about Israel and Palestine include Larissa Sansour and Sren Linds Familiar Phantoms (world premiere) and Jonathan Schaller and Philipp Schaeffers Silent Night (world premiere), alongside new films like No Other Land, Bye Bye Tiberias, There was Nothing here before and Erin Axelman and Sam Eilertsens controversial Israelism. For CPH: DOX, our primary focus is on tackling the most crucial and pressing contemporary issues. In a world increasingly marked by polarization, we must be willing to challenge our own established truths and engage in meaningful dialogues with those holding different opinions and perspectives, said Artistic Director Niklas Engstrm. Director Max Kestner exemplifies this open and inquisitive spirit in the festivals opening film Life and Other Problems, where he embarks on a quest to unravel the meaning and value of life, inspired by the global media scandal surrounding the euthanasia of a giraffe in a Danish Zoo exactly a decade ago. This same ethos of openness and curiosity guides us at CPH:DOX as we navigate the complexities of the world even during tumultuous times, as we are experiencing at the moment. The full CPH:DOX lineup can be viewed here. The festival runs March 13 24. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The post Foreigners Mick Jones Reveals Battle with Parkinsons Disease appeared first on Consequence. Founding Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones has revealed that he has been battling Parkinsons disease for the past several years. The legendary rocker disclosed his health status in an open letter to fans. Jones is the lone original member still left in Foreigner, who are among the nominees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year. In recent years, hes rarely performed with the band, and has now disclosed that its his struggle with Parkinsons disease that has kept him off the stage. On Foreigners social media pages, Jones wrote the following: Fans will have become very aware that for some time now, I have not been performing onstage with the band. Several years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. I want everyone to know that I am doing alright. However, Ive always liked to be at my best when performing onstage, and sadly, at present, I find that a bit difficult. I am still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence. Parkinsons is a daily struggle; the important thing is to persevere and remind myself of the wonderful career Ive had in music. I thank all the fans who have supported Foreigner throughout the years and continue to attend our concerts I want you to know I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, but especially so at this point in my life. -Mick Jones Jones, who turned 79 years old in December, formed Foreigner in 1976 and has remained the only constant member of the band since then. Hes co-written most of their biggest hits, including Cold as Ice, Hot Blooded, Waiting for a Girl Like You, and I Want to Know What Love Is, among others. On recent Foreigner tours, Jones would come out for a few songs each night, if at all. For the past 13 years or so, Bruce Watson has primarily been playing lead guitar in the band. This year, Foreigner are set to embark on a co-headlining North American tour with Styx. The summer outing kicks off June 11th in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and runs through an August 28th show in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Foreigner also have a number of their own spring dates leading up the summer run. Tickets to their upcoming shows are available here. Get Foreigner Tickets Here Despite taking a step back from performing, Jones remains a significant member of Foreigner, making final business decisions and writing music for a potential long-awaited follow-up to 2009s Cant Slow Down. Last year, bassist Jeff Pilson noted to Billboard that Jones was working on new material with songwriter Marti Frederiksen. Theres a whole bunch of stuff in different stages of completion, he said. Weve got stuff going back a long time, so I think that might be something thats going to happen. Following Foreigners recent Rock Hall nomination, renowned producer/songwriter Mark Ronson put together a Vote Foreigner campaign video featuring Dave Grohl, Jack Black, Slash, Chad Smith, and Josh Homme. See that clip following Mick Jones open letter to fans below. Foreigners Mick Jones Reveals Battle with Parkinsons Disease 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. John Avlon, who recently departed CNN, has officially launched his bid for a New York congressional seat. He is running in the first congressional district, which covers Suffolk County and is currently held by Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY), who has endorsed Donald Trump in the presidential race. Avlon faces a crowded Democratic field in the June 25 primary. More from Deadline I believe the United States is the greatest democracy the world has ever known, but right now, our democracy is in danger, he said in an announcement video posted today. We need to build the broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump, defend our democracy, and win back the House from his MAGA minions who dont even seem interested in solving problems anymore. Avlon was previously the editor in chief of The Daily Beast and, before that, chief speechwriter for then-New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. He departed CNN earlier this month, after serving as senior political analyst and anchor since 2018. He is married to Margaret Hoover, the host of PBSs Firing Line. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. SPRING LAKE - When Wells Fargo abandoned its branch on Third Avenue here at the beginning of 2022, it had no shortage of offers from developers eager to have property in the heart of the downtown shopping district. The winning bidder, though, was Spring Lake itself, which bought the building a year later for $3.3 million and had a project of its own in mind: a restaurant on the ground floor and three apartments dedicated to affordable housing on top. "We just don't have the properties where we can build (affordable housing)," said Bryan Dempsey, Spring Lake's administrator. "So when this came about, it was kind of like, you know what? That's the right thing to do. Let's do it." Spring Lake is getting ready to embark on a redevelopment project that is winning praise from advocates who point to it as evidence that affluent towns can add affordable housing to their trendy downtowns. Spring Lake borough administrator Bryan Dempsey gives a tour of the second floor of the former Wells Fargo Bank on Third Avenue in the borough Thursday, February 15, 2024. The borough has gutted the building and is turning the second floor into affordable apartments with a possible restaurant/bar on the first. Pricey real estate: See the 10 most expensive homes sold in Monmouth, Ocean counties in the past year The development comes as New Jersey lawmakers debate a new strategy to add more than 200,000 units that the National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates are needed for low-income residents in the state. Spring Lake officials say the renovation hasn't been easy. And it when it is complete, the new units will make just a small dent in the borough's affordable housing obligation. But experts say it is a roadmap for how wealthy towns can build low- and moderate-income housing. 'It can fit right into the fabric of the community' "I think what what is really cool about Spring Lake is that it's a very affluent area and they're going to include the affordable housing right downtown," said Randi Moore, chief executive officer of the Affordable Housing Alliance, a nonprofit organization based in Neptune. "It can fit right into the fabric of the community." Staci Berger, president and chief executive officer of the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey, an association of affordable housing agencies, agreed. "On the face of it, it seems like an innovative way to utilize the underperforming asset that seems important to the community and to begin to address the shortage of affordable homes we have around the state," she said. Story continues Spring Lake historically has been home to opulent hotels and summer cottages. Little has changed over the years. The median price of a home sold in Spring Lake last year was $3 million, more than four times higher than Monmouth County's median price, according to the Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors, a trade group. What it costs to live here: Monmouth County median home prices start the new year by rising over the $800K mark The vault inside the former Wells Fargo Bank in Spring Lake is shown Thursday, February 15, 2024. The borough has gutted the interior with plans to turn the second level into affordable apartments and a possible restaurant/bar on the first. Like all New Jersey towns, Spring Lake has an obligation under state law to provide its fair share of affordable housing units in which households making up to 80% of the area's median income would spend no more than a third of their monthly paychecks on housing expenses. In Spring Lake's case, its obligation is 148 units. In Monmouth and Ocean counties, the median household income is $91,038 and $130,054 for a family of four. It means individuals making up to $72,830 and a family of four making up to $104,043 could be eligible for affordable housing programs. Spring Lake's plan to meet its obligation, approved by a judge in 2018, called for developers to set aside up to 20% of units in multifamily homes for low- and moderate-income residents. In reaching an agreement, Spring Lake was protected the town from builder's remedy lawsuits, which gave builders the chance to avoid the municipal approval process and build as many market-rate units as they wanted, as long as 20% of the units were affordable. But affordable housing has been slow to come to Spring Lake, in part because the borough is virtually built to capacity. Spring Lake's affordable housing projects instead are modest. The town won accolades in 2015 when it built a four-unit affordable housing complex on what was a vacant parcel of land on Warren Avenue, across the street from the transit station. The borough, however, saw an opportunity in January 2022 when Wells Fargo moved out of a building that had been a landmark. Built in the early 1900s by First National Bank, the building is thought to be one of the oldest in town. Borough officials feared a new developer would tear it down. So they agreed to buy it with the help of money from the town's Affordable Housing Trust Fund and satisfy what they saw as pressing needs: They could attract a restaurant to operate with a liquor license on the first floor, and they could build affordable housing units on the second floor. Living in the boss's guest house? Jersey Shore workers struggle to find middle-class homes The idea received little pushback from residents or business owners. George D'Amico, president of the Greater Spring Lake Chamber of Commerce, said that part of town was always intended to have mixed-use buildings with retailers on the ground floor and apartments upstairs. "I think its totally in character with what the forefathers had in mind," said D'Amico, an agent with D'Amico & McConnell Realtors. 'We all want to live here' Spring Lake has gutted the second floor of the former Wells Fargo Bank on Third Avenue with plans to turn that level into affordable apartments and a possible restaurant/bar on the first. Town officials pressed ahead. "I think it's just an opportunity for a family of modest means to live in close proximity to a downtown, in close proximity to a very good school system, for all the same reasons why we all want to live here," Mayor Jennifer Naughton said. "So I think that's that's the biggest advantage. From a technical advantage, we can retire some of the unmet need that the borough has been carrying and carrying and carrying." Want to eat dinner in this dead bank? Developers give new life to grand old buildings New Jersey towns have been struggling for decades to meet their affordable housing obligations under rules that are set to expire in 2025. The New Jersey Assembly recently approved a bill that would abolish the Council on Affordable Housing, a state oversight agency known as COAH, and, supporters say, give municipalities more flexibility in how to meet their affordable housing obligations. The legislation is awaiting the Senate. Even with more flexible rules, the Spring Lake project shows the creation of affordable housing can be arduous. The borough has run into plenty of obstacles to renovate the old building. Officials hired a contractor to gut the interior, leaving behind the bank vaults on the ground floor that are foundational to the building. And they need to decide what to do with a staircase that, as it stands, could lead from the apartments into the kitchen of the new restaurant. Exterior of the former Wells Fargo Bank on Third Avenue in Spring Lake Thursday, February 15, 2024. The borough has gutted the building and is turning the second floor into affordable apartments with a possible restaurant/bar on the first. Affordable housing developers say these are common, and expensive, hurdles builders face when trying to convert businesses into homes. "With affordable housing, it's very hard to pencil out getting the numbers to work funding-wise," said Roger Johnson, senior vice president of real estate for Invest Newark, an agency that recently converted an old bank into an affordable artists' colony. "And so that's why you need the subsidies from the cities and states, federal dollars to kind of close those gaps. And even those processes are extremely cumbersome. So it's a challenge." Social butterfly to social activist: NJ woman, 94, fights towns to build affordable homes Spring Lake's timetable remains hazy. Borough officials said they plan to go out to bid for a restaurant operator, before finishing designs for the apartments and hiring an agency to manage the affordable housing component. Eventually, the outside agency will conduct a lottery for the three units. You don't need to be a Spring Lake resident to apply. "It really gives other towns like us that have limited properties the ability to look outside the box to see: Is there a mixed-use that you could do in your town, where the town could be the landlord and provide other things?" said Dempsey, the Spring Lake administrator, said. "In our case, we were able to do that." 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: Spring Lake affordable housing will come from converting old bank In the opening moments of 20 Days in Mariupol, Mstyslav Chernovs chilling account of the siege of the Ukrainian port city, a Russian tank marked with the ominous Z swivels its turret toward a hospital. On an upper floor of the building, Chernov and his small team record as the cannon slowly rotates towards them, preparing to fire. The tank did shoot the hospital right above the floor we were at, he says. It hit between the fifth and sixth floors and a patient was killed with that shell. More from Deadline It was one of many times he put his life at risk to show the Russian armys destruction of the city and its systematic targeting of civilians. He remembers feeling his life was about to end. Exactly in that moment in the film, this moment of uncertainty, the moment when tanks are shooting at the residential areas, when the hospital is surrounded and we are trapped, thats what Im thinking about, he recalls. Im thinking about my family, about my daughters, the fact that I probably will not make it out alive. 20 Days in Mariupol For as long as documentaries have been made, filmmakers have been willing to sacrifice their own safety to tell stories rippling with danger. A number of those films have gone on to earn Academy Award nominations. Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington captured ferocious firefights in Afghanistan between the Taliban and U.S. forces for their 2010 film Restrepo (a year later, Hetherington would be killed covering the civil war in Libya). Director Evgeny Afineevsky headed into the heart of the Maidan Revolution in Ukraine to make his 2015 Oscar-nominated film Winter on Fire: Ukraines Fight for Freedom. Peaceful protests against the Russian-allied government turned violent when troops opened fire on demonstrators, killing dozens of people. I was too busy documenting to worry about the bullets flying over my head or the batons coming down, Afineevsky has said. In recent years, Feras Fayyad (Last Men in Aleppo), Talal Derki (Of Fathers and Sons), Waad Al-Kateab (For Sama), and Matthew Heineman (Cartel Land) have put themselves in serious jeopardy to complete their Oscar-nominated films. Going further back, combat cameraman Pierre Schoendoerffer filmed battles between American and North Vietnamese soldiers for his 1967 Oscar-winning film The Anderson Platoon. Chernov is not the only Oscar-nominated filmmaker this year to have faced mortal peril while shooting his film. If not for his camera, Ugandan filmmaker Moses Bwayo might have been killed while making Bobi Wine: The Peoples President, which he co-directed with Christopher Sharp. A potentially fatal incident unfolded in November 2020 as Bwayo traveled alongside a motorcade transporting Bobi Wine, the Ugandan pop star-turned-politician who was running for president against the countrys dictator, Yoweri Museveni. Bobi Wine: The Peoples President I was on a motorcycle and filming, Bwayo says. Ahead, security forces loyal to Museveni had erected a barricade. They started shooting teargas, bullets. This military man makes eye contact with me. And then he puts his gun up, cocks the gun. I had a camera in my hand, so I just put it up to my face. And the guy shot. I was shocked. The projectile hit the camera, and the camera helped change its direction [but the bullet] still hit me in the cheek I hit the ground, blacked out for a few minutes. I had never felt such excruciating pain. Filmmaker Moses Bwayo after being shot by police. My face swelled, and I was bleeding, he says. I just woke myself up very quickly. But shockingly, the guy was literally standing right on top of me, and he was aiming for another shot. And thats when I started running. And there was a motorcycle going past. I jumped on it and told the guy to drive away. And thats how I got out of that situation. His loved ones urged him to abandon the documentary, he says. Everyone was calling and saying, Look, Moses, you dont have to do this. This is a brutal regime. This is not going to change. But this story, its a national story. For the first time in the history of our country, here was a charismatic leader, young, who was offering himself to lead the youth and the oppressed people of Uganda, to liberate themselves. The story overshadowed the risk. For Indian Canadian filmmaker Nisha Pahuja, director of To Kill a Tiger, risks mounted the more she pursued her documentary, set in Indias state of Jharkhand. The film tells the story of Ranjit, a poor farmer, whose 13-year-old daughter Kiran became the victim of a brutal sexual assault by three young men. Ranjit and his wife Jiganti came under enormous pressure from villagers to absolve the attackers and marry off their daughter to one of her assailants. They refused. Director Nisha Pahuja during filming of To Kill a Tiger As the case progressed and as it became apparent to everyone in the community that in spite of all of their efforts, the family was not going to drop the case and that they were going to pursue justice, things started to become increasingly intense, Pahuja says. The family was threatened, the crew was threatened There were many, many different ways to try to get the family to drop the charges, but they persevered. Pahuja and her team were filming in Ranjits humble dwelling when angry villagers converged, threatening to burn down the house with the family and film crew inside. It was the culmination of a growing sense of unease for the director, who had rented a house outside the village while making To Kill a Tiger. I was a woman; I was by myself. I knew that things were tense. I knew that it was problematic. I knew what I was doing was rocking the boat. I was living in this house on my own, she says. I was definitely conscious and looking over my shoulder On To Kill a Tiger, the presence of cameras served both to provoke and protect. Our primary concern was the family and how did they feel, and what did they want us to do? Did they want us to keep filming? Should we stop? And they didnt, Pahuja says. They wanted us to keep filming They understood that the camera actually afforded them a kind of protection. They felt that because we were filming, nobody would ever do anything. They would think twice. By contrast, Chernov knew that carrying a camera and wearing a bulletproof vest marked Press would not shield him in Mariupol. The Ukrainian filmmaker says for countries like Russia, information is a weapon. And by extension, journalists are soldiers, which is a very disturbing thing because that makes us a target, that makes documentary filmmakers and journalists every person with a camera a target. To Kill a Tiger His long experience in conflict journalism covering wars in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Nagorno-Karabakh and elsewhere for the Associated Press told him that Mariupol was likely to be a hotspot if Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He headed there hours before Russia attacked, but not before making last-minute preparations to mitigate risk. We bought extra spare tires; we bought a lot of food. And I remember the night before the invasion, everybody looked at us as crazy people and they were asking, What are you doing? Why do you need two spare tires at 3 oclock in the morning? Why are you buying kilos and kilos of food and dozens of cans of food in the middle of the night? he remembers. And my answer was, Well, the war is going to start. We rented at least two places where we could stay in different sides of the city depending on where Russians would be coming from, or if the electricity was [out] in one neighborhood and not in another one. Even if people dont believe you or think youre crazy, these preparations are very important, he says. And then there were preparations about communication, the backup plans for escape. Every time you speak to the editor [at AP], it starts from a security assessment. Whats the closest shelter? Where is the closest medical evacuation point? Where is the frontline currently? And so on and so forth. I think that allowed us to survive, those preparations and that experience. 20 Days in Mariupol Making Bobi Wine: The Peoples President confronted Bwayo with a dilemma stay in Uganda and tempt fate or leave his homeland and his extended family behind. He says after his wife twice became the target of attempted kidnappings, he made a decision. That was the point when [co-director] Christopher Sharp, myself, and [producer] John Battsek realized we had to flee the country, he recalls. In March 2022, after I shot the last scene of the film, we left Uganda not knowing if we would return. He and his wife took refuge in the United States, where they are raising their 19-month-old son Joshua. While their application for political asylum is being considered, they can travel within the U.S. but no further. If I left the U.S. borders, I would never be able to return. So, Im grounded within the U.S. But again, it could be worse, he says. People lost their lives to repression in Uganda, to the regime. But Im alive. Im thankful for that. And the attention that the film has gotten is really appreciated. And it really goes far to highlight the fight for freedom and democracy in Uganda and upholding democratic values around the world. Read the digital edition of Deadlines Oscar Preview issue here. A sense of a higher obligation took Chernov away from his family to make 20 Days in Mariupol. His youngest daughter was only six months old when the war erupted. After international journalists evacuated Mariupol for safety reasons, the director and his team remained behind, understanding that without visual documentation the world would not grasp the scale of the tragedy the thousands of innocent children, women and men killed in Russias merciless assault. The worst thing is that when you dont have a record of anything, this empty space is filled by false narratives generated by the perpetrators, Chernov says. I think it is incredibly important to make sure that every shot, every minute that was recorded in Mariupol but also in other places in Ukraine now, that we dont necessarily see in the news is being recorded and preserved, because the time will come when everything will be questioned, everything will be denied. And in that moment, having these records is crucial for Ukraines history and for the worlds history. cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ settings: { plugins: { pmcAtlasMG: { iabPlcmt: 1, } } }, playerId: "1d932e57-b397-4448-b4b7-d30563744457", mediaId: "6f7a13ae-3ba7-4dee-b1f8-c31e608d3a76", }).render("connatix_contextual_player_6f7a13ae-3ba7-4dee-b1f8-c31e608d3a76_2"); }); Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The next episode of My Instant Death Ability premieres in just a few hours. Meanwhile, the previous episodes are still weighing heavily on the minds of many fans. After the swordmasters exam fiasco, Yogiri and Dannoura make their way to the capital. As shown in the preview trailer, this episode will focus on Yogiris past and some of his classmates circumstances. My Instant Death Ability Season 1 Episode 8 release date and time The release date and time of my Instant Death Ability episode 7 have been disclosed. The episode will premiere in Japan on Tokyo MX and BS11 networks on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 12:30 a.m. JST. The global release date and time for the series is as follows: February 22, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. PST February 22, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. EST February 22, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. GMT February 22, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. CET February 22, 2024, at 9:00 p.m. IST My Instant Death Ability Episode 7 Recap Theodosia (Photo Credit: Sentai FIlmworks) The upcoming episode will kick off from where episode 6 ended, with Yogiri and Dannoura meeting Theodosia. She asked for their help in finding her sister, to which they agreed. The remaining candidates were teleported to the top, where there seemed to be 17 candidates left. The swordmaster declared that all of them were now Knights of the Divine King. However, everything took a turn for the worse when the barriers sealing the Dark Lord and Divine King began to crumble. Minions of the dark lord, Lute, and Orgain appeared and started to kill all the candidates. Yogiri decided this was the best time to look around the tower for Theodosias sister. However, after reaching the basement, they discovered that the swordmaster kept her people captive to use for experiments. Despite feeling relieved at her sisters absence, Theodosia swore to kill the swordmaster. Elsewhere, Lynel tried his luck with his apology stones and summoned the Goddess Vahanoto. She is later revealed to be the Dark Lords lover. She joined Lute and Orgain in destroying the final barrier, sealing the dark lord. This resulted in both the Dark Lord and Divine King being freed. However, it was revealed that Yogiri had killed the Dark Lord while he was still in stasis. When Vahanato realized this, she suffered a mental breakdown and ordered the demons to erase the humans. However, Yogiri killed Orgain and the other demons with a single thought. Aoi Hayanose then appeared with Daimon Hanakawa, looking for Yogiri and Dannoura. When checking his power level, she was terrified as he was revealed to be the end of all fates. She was forced to surrender and flee. The episode ended with Sions attempt to summon someone for information on Yogiri, ending in tragic failure. The post My Instant Death Ability Episode 8 Set To Dive Deeper Into Yogiris Past appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Prince Williams dramatic statement calling for an end to the war in Gaza on Tuesday dismayed Israeli officials who considered it to be naive, it was reported Wednesday. However, the officials were restrained in their criticism of William, as they did not want to enter into a row with the future king, a report in the Telegraph said, without citing sources. Meanwhile, some political commentators suggested that William may have made the comments at the urging of the foreign secretary, David Cameron. Prince William Will Continue to Speak Out After Gaza Statement: Royal Source Ed Balls, a former senior political strategist for the Labor Party, speculated on ITVs Good Morning Britain: I wonder whether the foreign secretary, Lord Cameron, isnt saying to the palace, If youre thinking of an intervention, this is the week to do it. Help us to ratchet the pressure up on Israel, nows the time. Williams office has said that his remarks were approved by the Foreign Office, but clearly suggested that they were made on Williams initiative, with aides telling reporters that William decided to speak out after being affected by the extent of human suffering that is on display. The Telegraph said Israeli officials were caught off guard by the princes naive statement, which went against decades of precedent established by Queen Elizabeth II, in which the British monarch has stayed away from contentious issues. William said: I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. Its critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home. Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that. Israel decided on a measured response to avoid risking a diplomatic rift with the future king, according to the Telegraph. The Israeli response ran as follows: Israelis of course want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible, and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the Oct. 7 atrocities is dismantled. We appreciate the Prince of Wales call for Hamas to free the hostages. We also recall with gratitude his statement from Oct. 11 condemning Hamas terror attacks and reaffirming Israels right of self-defense against them. The well-connected royal writer Richard Kay said in the Daily Mail that William wants to move away from the mere platitudes that are the typical stuff of royal statements, but cautioned this could lead the royals into dangerous uncharted waters, adding, With the king incapacitated, what William does and says are necessarily subject to additional scrutiny. The Daily Beast has been told that William will continue to speak out on controversial matters when he feels the need to do so. Britains Chief Rabbi notably welcomed Williams statement, writing on X, that William to date had shown a deep concern for the well being of all those affected by the conflict in the Middle East and his words of compassion today, which I welcome, are yet further evidence of this. His plan to visit a synagogue to learn more about the troubling global increase in antisemitism will send a powerful message that there must be no place for anti Jewish hatred in our society. 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. Jam Master Jay. - Credit: Bob Berg/Getty Images Ronald Washington, one of the two defendants standing trial for allegedly killing Jam Master Jay, chuckled in court on Wednesday when his attorney, Susan Kellman, invoked Harry Potter in her closing arguments. The moment came as she discussed the prosecutions theory that Washington and the other defendant, Karl Jordan Jr., were waiting on a fire escape to enter the recording studio where the DJ, whose real name was Jason Mizell, was killed. She said it was impossible, since the two men would have been seen on surveillance video. Then she paused dramatically. It just occurred to me, she told the court. Its possible they were out there, and they borrowed Harry Potters invisibility cloak. Washington, who was dressed in a gray suit and had been looking on intently, chortled. More from Rolling Stone It was one of several dramatic moments on Wednesday as Kellman and Jordans attorney, Michael Hueston, responded to the prosecutions summary of their case on Tuesday. Those remarks outlined the U.S. attorneys indictment against the two men, alleging that they killed the DJ on Oct. 30, 2002, in retaliation for Washington getting cut out of a drug deal that the DJ, whose real name was Jason Mizell, was part of. The men recruited another man, Jay Bryant, the prosecutors had said, to open the fire escape door, allowing Jordan to shoot Mizell and Washington to stand guard. Bryant, both defense attorneys argued, was the true alleged shooter. Both lawyers focused on a blue hat containing Bryants DNA that police recovered at the crime scene and said that that was the only evidence linking any of the accused killers to the crime. Neither of the defendants DNA is on the hat. The lawyers also cited a past confession in which Bryant said hed killed the DJ. At one point, prosecutor Artie McConnell suggested the hat might have fallen out of Jordans pocket, a claim that the defense attorneys latched onto. During his remarks, Hueston nonchalantly walked in front of the court and stuck his hand in his pocket and let his own blue hat fall on the floor to show the perceived absurdity of the claim. Kellman suggested the only reason Bryant might have given Jordan the hat was to keep his pocket warm. Hueston began the day with a nearly two-hour address that began with him quoting from George Orwells 1984 and displaying the equation 2+2=5 on a PowerPoint. He claimed the government had become Orwellian in its indictment and that Bryants role in the case alongside the hat constituted reasonable doubt. He also read back testimony from Ray Bryant, Jays uncle, in which Ray said Jay had said hed shot the DJ. He also focused on testimony and past statements from witnesses the prosecution brought forward during the trial. (Hueston did not call any witnesses during the past three weeks, instead reminding the jury that the burden was on the government.) He cited a statement from Uriel Tony Rincon, an eyewitness who was playing video games with Mizell the day he was shot and who took a bullet himself in the leg, claiming that hed initially described a struggle with an unknown man who fell to the ground. That description, Hueston said, syncs up with Jay Bryants confession. (During testimony, Rincon said he clearly saw Jordan and identified him for the jury.) Hueston latched onto McConnells description of Jordan on Tuesday as the ideal assassin, since Jordan was 18 at the time and was Mizells godson, making him a trustworthy person to go into the studio. He said the allegation that Jordan walked through the studio and displayed his tattoo, not wearing a mask, did not make him the ideal assassin. Heres my tattoo pop, Hueston demonstrated in a jokey way. Hueston also laced his remarks with pop culture references; in addition to 1984, he invoked Scooby Doos Mystery Machine to describe a taxi Jordan had ridden in and cited one of his own favorite movies, Ferris Buellers Day Off, paraphrasing, Slow down and look at life or it will pass you by. The jury appeared to have glazed-over faces in the second hour, though Jordan looked on intently. He closed after showing a still from news footage after the shooting that showed Jordan at the studio in a hoodie. Its ludicrous for him to show up at the murder scene [if he were the murderer], Hueston said. He didnt know the cameras werent recording. He was showing his tattoo. And he shows up at the crime scene like, Come and arrest me. He was there [at the scene] because he cares. Kellman used a quote from poet Sir Walter Scott Oh what a tangled web we weave/When first we practice to deceive as a springboard to untangle what she said were issues with both the prosecutors closing and opening remarks. She pointed to discrepancies in witness statements and said some stories changed 14 years later when government investigators reevaluated the case. In her address to the jury, Kellman said that her client, Washington, couldnt have recruited Bryant to be a part of a murder since essentially his job would be to act as a door monitor, letting them in. She said there was no evidence that Washington was at the fire escape waiting to be let in. What evidence is there? Nothing, nothing, nothing, she said, before turning to the prosecution table and saying, Nothing. She said that Washington couldnt have been angry with Mizell for cutting him out of the alleged drug ring because it was another dealer who refused to work with him. She also referred to a witness who said that when Washington had seen Mizell earlier in the day before he was shot, Mizell had confided in him that hed started carrying a gun because I have a problem. The witness said Washington replied, If you have a problem, I have a problem, like I got you, bro,' Kellman said. This statement had occurred months after the alleged drug deal fell apart. Nobody kills somebody if youre trying to help them or advocate for them, she said, before alleging that Bryant was the shooter. After lunch, prosecutor Mark Misorek offered a rebuttal on behalf of the government, calling the defense attorneys claims pure speculation. If you look at the evidence, the answer is clear: Karl Jordan Jr. shot Jason Mizell in the head while Washington stood by the door, he said. Jay Bryant played a role but it wasnt the same as them. Jordan appeared stoic throughout much of Misoreks statements but eventually picked up a book when Misorek was describing his appearance in witness testimony. Washington remained composed throughout the rebuttal. He closed by asking, Who killed Jam Master Jay and why? His answer: Jay Bryant had a role; he opened the door. Ronald Washington had a role; he held Lydia High at gunpoint. Karl Jordan Jr. had a role; he put a bullet through Jason Mizells head. Its time to go convict him. Jury deliberations begin Thursday. Best of Rolling Stone Jam Master Jay in 1990. - Credit: Rita Barros/Getty Images The trial for two men accused of killing Run-DMCs pioneering DJ in 2002 began its denouement in court on Tuesday as the prosecution made its closing arguments. In summarizing the governments case over two hours, prosecutor Artie McConnell decried the brutality, arrogance, and audacity of the murder of Jam Master Jay. Since Jan. 29, a jury has heard testimony from 35 U.S. government witnesses to argue that defendant Karl Jordan Jr. fatally shot the DJ, whose real name was Jason Mizell, at a Jamaica, Queens recording studio while defendant Ronald Washington stood guard. The motive, an indictment said, was that Mizell, who had taken to distributing drugs after Run-DMCs popularity faded, cut Washington out of a deal in Baltimore; prosecutors alleged they murdered him in retaliation. Each defendant faces a minimum of 20 years in prison if convicted. (A third man, Jay Bryant, who was included on the indictment, will be tried at a later date.) More from Rolling Stone Both defendants said on Tuesday that they would not take the stand as witnesses themselves. Jordans team offered no witnesses in his defense while Washingtons presented only one, an expert on memory. Without the jury present, one of Washingtons lawyers, Ezra Spilke, spoke on behalf of both defendants asking for an acquittal. The defense is expected to give their closing arguments on Wednesday. McConnell reiterated how witnesses in the case included eyewitnesses, law enforcement, experts, co-conspirators, and drug dealers. Its about greed, money, and jealousy, he said. Its the actions of two men, Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington, that the evidence has proven are the killers. He also described them as Mizells executioners. He recounted the timeline of Oct. 30, 2002, the day Mizell was shot and killed. Referring to a mosaic of witness testimony, he described how Mizell and his friend, Uriel Tony Rincon, were playing video games at a recording studio in Jamaica, Queens at about 7 p.m. McConnell alleged that Bryant entered the building directly behind a woman who worked for Mizells JMJ records and went to the back to let in the defendants, who shot and killed Mizell. He claimed that the defendants planned the shooting, knowing how the studio was set up with cameras facing only certain directions; they did not know, he said, that the security cameras were not recording. Karl Jordan enters the studio first, McConnell said. He was noticed and recognized by Tony. After a brief greeting, Karl Jordan Jr. pulls out a semiautomatic, 40-caliber pistol and fires away. The shots were inches away from Mizell. McConnell next shifted his focus to the motive, which he said was the narcotics conspiracy. He recounted the testimony of one witness, Eric Shake James, who alleged Jordan and Washington were part of Mizells drug conspiracy, which was to move 10 kilograms of coke in Baltimore. Because a dealer named Ralph Mullgrav refused to work with Washington, McConnell said Washington and Jordan wanted revenge. He alleged that by killing Mizell, they hoped to be part of the drug conspiracy. In another part of his closing remarks, he claimed that the defense would focus on inconsistencies in the eyewitnesses statements. He believed, however, that they lied to the police because they were scared, which theyd also said themselves under oath. But while on the stand for this trial, McConnell said the witnesses had no reason to lie. If they were [both] mistaken, what are they chances theyd be making the same mistake [in identifying the two same defendants as the shooters]? he speculated. He also reiterated statements that the defendants made that allegedly implicated themselves. Among other claims, he recounted how Washington, at one point, popped his head in a local barbershop and asked them to say hed been there all day to establish an alibi for himself. Another man, Cherubin Bastien, had given testimony saying that Jordan had threatened a woman that hed do her like he did Jay. Ladies and gentlemen, this ends here in this courtroom with your verdict, he said at the end of his statements. The world knew him as Jam Master Jay of Run-DMC, but before that he was Jason Mizell, father, son He was a good man, a generous man, a liked man, a still missed man. There were people who cared about him. Twenty years is a long time to wait for justice. Twenty years is long enough. Dont let this go on another minute, and find Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington guilty as charged, because they are guilty. Throughout the statements, both defendants looked on, following the prosecutors every word. Memory was also the focus of discussion earlier on Tuesday. Washingtons team brought forward an expert witness, Dr. Geoffrey Loftus, an emeritus professor at the University of Washington in Seattle who specialized in human perception. Loftus, who when asked if he was going to be paid to give testimony said, I hope so, yeah, used an easel to diagram how memory works for the jury. Spilke, on behalf of Washington, hoped Dr. Loftus would show the jury how post-event information things like newspaper articles, documentaries, and hearsay could affect and alter the way people remember traumatic events. But Judge LaShann DeAarcy Hall excluded questions about the governments witnesses, especially eyewitnesses to the killing, since the defense attorneys did not specifically ask them where or when theyd seen any interviews with other witnesses about Mizells killing. Dr. Loftus subsequent testimony was broad, but he asserted that post-event information could lead witnesses to lose the ability to distinguish between what they remember firsthand and what they encountered after the fact. He added that some post-event information could be dubious (reliable or unreliable) and that factors that could diminish a witness recollection include the duration of an event (in the case of the shooting, allegedly about 10 seconds), whether the witness was paying attention to whats important, and a high degree of stress. In the defenses favor, he said that 10 seconds might not be long enough for a witness seemingly referring to High but without naming her to recognize someone holding a gun to her head, since she would be under stress. Under cross examination, though, prosecutor Miranda Gonzalez used her husband as an example and asked whether Dr. Loftus believes shed be able to recognize her husband pointing a gun at her in good lighting, inside, and within five feet of her. He said yes. (High, who claimed that Washington pointed a gun at her and told her to get down, testified that shed known Washington since childhood.) Defendants Jordan, who wore a maroon vest, and Washington, in a gray suit, looked on with interest throughout questioning. Closing arguments will continue Wednesday, with U.S. attorneys providing a rebuttal before the jury deliberates on a verdict. Best of Rolling Stone The King held his first in-person meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak after working behind the scenes in recent weeks since sharing his cancer diagnosis The Royal Family/ X Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles meet at Buckingham Palace on Feb. 21, 2024 King Charles is back on royal duty! The King, 75, who is being treated for cancer, met with U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday afternoon at Buckingham Palace. His face-to-face audience was the first since the monarch revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer. Despite his cancer, which was detected when he was being treated for a benign enlarged prostate, King Charles has been continuing with his affairs of state but largely behind the scenes. Two weeks ago, the King and Sunak exchanged a phone call, which was more of a catch-up than the formal audience that the monarch and prime minister traditionally hold weekly. On Wednesday, that changed with the release of photographs and video footage of King Charles' meeting with Sunak. Sunak said it was "wonderful" to see King Charles looking so well, to which the monarch quipped, "It's all done with mirrors." The prime minister then said, "Well, we're all behind you. The country's behind you." The King said, "I've had so many wonderful messages and cards. It's reduced me to tears most of the time." JONATHAN BRADY/POOL/AFP via Getty Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and King Charles meet at Buckingham Palace on Feb. 21, 2024 Related: A Complete Timeline of King Charles' Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment The prime minister and monarch also talked about how the King's cancer news has put a spotlight on many vital cancer charities. "I hear there's been a lot more attention and interest on those main, wonderful cancer charities, many of which I've been patron for years," the King said with a laugh. "They do incredible work up and down the country," Sunak replied. "They do, they do," the King agreed. The meeting followed a gathering of King Charles' Privy Council earlier in the afternoon. It was Sunak who said soon after King Charles' diagnosis that the cancer had been "caught early." "Obviously, like everyone else, shocked and sad, and just all our thoughts are with him and his family. Thankfully, this has been caught early, Sunak told BBC Radio Five Live on Feb. 6, adding that he hopes the King "gets the treatment that he needs and makes a full recovery." While King Charles has canceled most in-person duties and engagements, the monarch has been determined to be seen when possible as he copes with the course of treatment. As in recent weeks, he was joined by his wife, Queen Camilla, 76, for church services at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk on Sunday. King Charles has largely been staying on the royal family's Sandringham estate since the palace revealed on Feb. 5 that he had been diagnosed with cancer. However, he has traveled to London for treatment as well as meetings with palace staff. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty King Charles on a visit to church at Sandringham on Feb. 4, 2024 Last week, Prince Harry, 39, spoke out about his father's health news for the time first with Good Morning America's Will Reeve. When asked how he first learned about his father's cancer diagnosis, the Duke of Sussex replied, "I spoke to him. I jumped on a plane and went to go see him as soon as I could." "Look, I love my family. The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him and spend any time with him, Im grateful for that," Prince Harry added. When asked about his outlook on the state of his father's health, he said, "That stays between me and him." 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! On Tuesday, Queen Camilla was back in London hosting an event to highlight the work of medical detection dogs at her and King Charles' London home, Clarence House. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. A man from Washington, D.C., is suing Powerball lottery organizers for posting the wrong winning numbers, which he thought he had to secure the jackpot. According to the lawsuit filed in the Superior Court of Washington, D.C., John Cheeks picked numbers 7, 15, 23, 32, and 40 with a Powerball number of 2 on his ticket. On the Jan. 7, 2023 drawing, the D.C. Lottery board posted the same numbers on their website. Cheeks saw the numbers the next day and believed he had won the $340 million prize. However, when he went to cash in his lottery ticket, he was denied the jackpot. Cheeks then took matters into his own hands by filing a complaint with the district's Office of Lottery and Gaming, where he was also denied. In one of the hearings that Cheeks requested, Taoti, the company in charge of the D.C. Lottery website, claimed that they posted the wrong numbers and kept them up for three full days. The lawsuit also states that the executive director of the Office of Lottery and Gaming supported Taoti's claim and denied Cheeks his prize. "Because the winning numbers on the D.C. Lottery website matched the numbers on the Plaintiff's Powerball lottery ticket, the Plaintiff is entitled to the entire jackpot that was then available," Cheeks' attorneys argues in the lawsuit. "This Court should enforce that prize." Cheeks' lawyers also stated their client is still entitled to damages if the court rules he didn't win the jackpot because of the defendants' "gross negligence" for posting the mistaken numbers, leaving them up for an extended time, trying to hide the mistake, and more. The defendants have filed a motion to dismiss the case, while Cheeks is seeking $340 million in compensatory damages, costs, and attorney fees, as well as asking for a jury trial. Rick Evans, one of Cheeks' attorneys, told CBS News that the lawsuit "raises critical questions about the integrity and accountability of lottery operations and the safeguardsor lack thereofagainst the type of errors that Powerball and the D.C. Lottery admit occurred in this case." More on this If the former president fails to come up with the money he owes, Letitia James told ABC News, "we will ask the judge to seize his assets" Erik McGregor/LightRocket via Getty A protester holds a sign outside Trump Tower in Manhattan that reads, "Lies have consequences," in response to the numerous criminal and civil cases against the former president Donald Trump could lose his Manhattan skyscrapers if he fails to pay his hefty court fines, New York Attorney General Letitia James warned this week. "If he does not have funds to pay off the judgment, then we will seek judgment enforcement mechanisms in court, and we will ask the judge to seize his assets," James told ABC News' Aaron Katersky. Related: Donald Trump Ordered to Pay $355 Million, Restricted from Doing Business in New York as Penalty for Fraud The former president was ordered to pay $354.9 million on Friday, plus an estimated $100 million in pre-judgment interest, as a penalty for committing fraud in New York. The fine is the result of a long-running civil suit brought by James, who alleged that he falsely inflated his net worth by billions of dollars while building his real estate empire to secure more favorable loan terms and lower insurance premiums. James told ABC News that she remains "very confident" in the strength of her case which also targeted Trump's adult sons and senior Trump Organization executives and it's clear that the judge agreed, opting to bar the defendants from holding executive positions at New York businesses for a set amount of time in addition to their financial penalties. Related: Judge Rules That Donald Trump Committed Fraud While Building Real Estate Empire Doug Mills-Pool/Getty; Richard Drew/AP/Shutterstock Former President Donald Trump was sued by New York Attorney General Letitia James for committing fraud The New York fraud ruling came just three weeks after Trump was ordered to pay former Elle columnist E. Jean Carroll $83.3 million in damages for making defamatory statements about her after she accused him of sexual assault. The onetime real estate mogul now needs to materialize a mountain of cash and quickly while running a heated presidential campaign and managing legal fees in his four pending criminal cases. As far as James is concerned, that's a burden he brought upon himself. Related: Donald Trump Does Not Have Absolute Presidential Immunity and Can Be Prosecuted, Court Rules "We are prepared to make sure that the judgment is paid to New Yorkers, and yes, I look at 40 Wall Street each and every day," James told ABC News, referring to Trump's 927-foot-tall skyscraper in Lower Manhattan. Trump owns numerous buildings in the state of New York including his former Fifth Avenue residence, Trump Tower which could also be at risk. 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. One day after receiving the $355 million penalty, Trump appeared at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia to promote a new shoe line reaching prices of $399 per pair. While introducing the self-branded sneakers, he was met with boos from the audience. In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, the Biden-Harris 2024 campaign reacted to Trump's promotional appearance over the weekend, stating, Donald Trump showing up to hawk bootleg Off-Whites is the closest hell get to any Air Force Ones ever again for the rest of his life. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Newsmax has joined the legions of conservative media outlets and figures who have trashed a pair of Florida GOP bills that ostensibly aim to curb so-called liberal media by loosening the definition of defamation. Newsmax strongly opposes both bills and any proposed law that makes it easy to sue media companies, Chris Ruddy, Newsmaxs CEO, said in a statement to The Daily Beast. Free speech and a free press are the most fundamental of our constitutional rights and must be zealously safeguarded. (Newsmax maintains a headquarters in Boca Raton, Florida, and Ruddy is a West Palm Beach native and a friend of former President Donald Trump.) The billsHouse Bill 757 and its Florida Senate companion, SB 1780would lower the threshold for defamation in Florida, allowing public officials to sue journalists and media outlets if an anonymous source says something the official believes to be false. The bills passed out of a Florida House committee on Wednesday in a 14-7 vote, and it is next headed to a Florida House vote. Whatever the right-wing legislative efforts intentions, these conservative critics say, it would be an affront to the First Amendment and would ultimately harm right-of-center media. State Rep. Alex Andrade, a self-described conservative fighter, proposed the House bill after a failed attempt at pushing the legislation into law last year. He told the Florida Houses Civil Justice Subcommittee last month that the media was not engaging in sufficient self-regulation and that journalists cannot act so recklessly that they publish something that could harm someones reputation without doing the bare minimum utility. The accompanying Senate bill, SB 1780, was proposed by Republican state Sen. Jason Brodeur. Andrade and Brodeurs offices did not respond to The Daily Beasts requests for comment. The House bill defines defamation as libel, slander, invasion of privacy, or any other tort founded upon any single publication, exhibition or utterance, excluding statements of opinion. That extends to the use of anonymous sources, according to the bills text. If an anonymous source makes a false statement thats published by a news organization, the outlet can be accused of actual malice by printing the statement. To prove whether a statement constitutes defamation, the bill would introduce veracity hearings, where a defendant would have to prove to a judge within 60 days of the lawsuit why the allegedly defamatory statement is factual. The bills would also allow plaintiffs to file the lawsuit in any Florida county if the plaintiff believes their reputation has been damaged there. But the two bills, which advance GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis desire to hamstring legacy media, have faced surprising vocal criticism from a growing number of conservative outlets, both local and national. I think theyre shit, Javier Manjarres, journalist and publisher of The Floridian, a right-leaning outlet based in Fort Lauderdale, told The Daily Beast. The bills proposals would affect both local and national outlets and would make sources less inclined to speak to reporters of all political stripes, he added. If they say something that maybe isn't completely false but it moves into the gray area, then you use that stuff legitimately as a journalist, but then you can get sued because your source was anonymous, Manjarres said. If you started divulging your anonymous sources, then where are we at in society when it comes to journalism? Manjarres said the laws would only benefit civil trial attorneysnotably the area of law Andrade specializes inbecause of the high costs and extensive time required to fight defamation suits. Those costs could shoot upwards of $20,000, he said, with no guarantee a defendant could ever recoup those expenses Youre talking about all this money out the door for what? Manjarres said. Because someone filed a lawsuit against you that didn't reach the threshold of malice, but it could be considered negligent or something close to that? Well, it's not malice. Ron DeSantis Anti-Free Speech Crusade Would Cancel Fox News The Supreme Court defined actual malice in the 1964 landmark case New York Times v. Sullivan as a statement published with knowledge that it was false or with reckless disregard for the truth. The decision was made to limit public officials ability to sue media outlets for defamation. However, Supreme Court Justice Clarance Thomas expressed last year his desire for the court to reexamine that decision, quoting a previous opinion to note the heavy cost, allowing media organizations and interest groups to cast false aspersions on public figures with near impunity. News outlets also have other means for course correction, including updating stories containing wrong information with corrections and retractions. Andrade also told Manjarres last year when discussing the previous version of the bill that people can already bring lawsuits involving defamation. But these bills would lower the threshold of what constitutes defamation, providing a legal avenue for people merely frustrated by a storys content. That could ultimately limit press freedoms, the New York Posts editorial board said in an op-ed trashing the legislative effort. Conservatives might support such lunacy to get back at the press, but they should realize the law would also make it easier for leftists to sue (or threaten to sue) right-wingers to get them to shut up, the board wrote last week. A host of local conservative voices as well as Floridas solid-red Reps. Byron Donalds and Cory Mills all think its a terrible idea. Theyre absolutely right. These changes represent a dangerous crackdown on free speech and freedom of the press. Andrade defended the bill on Wednesday, brushing off his fellow conservatives criticisms. Shocking, Andrade said, according to Florida Politics. Media outlets and their attorneys are afraid that a bill that protects your reputation and recognizes that your reputation has value, [they] dont want it to pass. A week prior, the legislator claimed his critics were reading the bills language too broadly. Disneys Going to School Ron DeSantis About Free Speech Andrade has also sparred with the owner of a local conservative talk radio station who said the bills would be the death of right-wing talk by opening on-air personalities to defamation suits. In a contentious text exchange reported by Florida Politics, Andrade called the station owner a liar with embarrassingly wrong opinions of the bill. This outburst came after the legislator called Rep. Mills, a staunch conservative, an imbecile in an X post last year after the federal lawmaker criticized the bills. Still, Andrades defenses have done little to assuage concerns over the bills impact. Trey Radel, a former U.S. congressman who hosts a radio show on Fox News Radio, told Fox News that the bill would help liberal lawyers to shut down conservative outlets. While certain Republicans may think that they're going to be suing and taking on The New York Times and The Washington Post, here's the breaking news: liberal trial lawyers are going to have a field day with center-right media in the state of Florida, Radel said. "Signing this into law will destroy conservative media in this state." 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. Courtesy photo Editor's note: This story contains descriptions of violence against a nonbinary person. Nex Benedict, a nonbinary high school sophomore, died on February 8, the day after reportedly being beaten by classmates in the bathroom of their high school in Owasso, Oklahoma. An anonymous source told local news outlet KJRH that the 16-year-old was attacked by three older classmates on February 7, adding that she believed Benedict died from complications from brain trauma. The source claimed that although Benedict couldnt walk to the nurse on their own following the incident, school staff did not call an ambulance. According to KJRH, Benedicts grandmother brought the student to the hospital after the altercation. "I know at one point, one of the girls was pretty much repeatedly beating [their] head across the floor," the source told KJRH. The Owasso Police Department (OPD) told KJRH that they were called to Bailey Medical Center on the afternoon of February 7. When they arrived, Benedicts parents told police their child had been involved in a fight at school. OPD provided a statement saying that the cause of death has not yet been made public. Since Benedicts death on February 8, they have been repeatedly misgendered and deadnamed in media reports. As many are learning of the horrific news out of Owasso, OK, many news outlets, and therefore, many of you, are using their dead name, the official X account for Oklahoma County Democrats wrote in a February 19 post. Their name is Nex Benedict. They were a 4.0 student. They liked cats. They deserved to live. May they find peace now. Benedicts grandmother, Sue Benedict, told The Independent that other students started bullying Nex at the beginning of the 2023 school year. The Independent notes that in May 2022, a bill requiring public school students to use bathrooms that match the sex on their birth certificates became law in Oklahoma. The LGBTQ+ advocacy group Freedom Oklahoma pointed out that Benedicts death comes as Oklahomas head education official, state superintendent Ryan Walters, continues to embrace anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policy. In January, Walters pushed an emergency rule to prevent students from changing the gender listed on their school records. Last month, he also appointed Chaya Raichik, the woman behind the virulently anti-LGBTQ+ platform Libs of TikTok, to the advisory council overseeing the states school libraries, despite Raichik not even living in Oklahoma. Last year, a Tulsa elementary school received a bomb threat after Raichik shared a video with the name and school of a local librarian. In 2022, Raichik similarly targeted a teacher in Benedicts school district for openly supporting LGBTQ+ students who werent accepted by their families. The teacher later resigned following harassment. Everything We Know About the Death of Nonbinary Oklahoma Teen Nex Benedict LGBTQ\+ advocates are seeking answers and accountability. Heres what weve learned so far. In a February 19 social media post, Freedom Oklahoma shared memories of Benedict from people who knew them. They described the 16-year-old as an unfailingly kind person who always searched for the best in people. Benedict, who The Independent reported is of Choctaw ancestry, is described as a lover of rock music who often bonded with others over headbanging. A post from Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents says that Benedict loved The Walking Dead, playing ARK and Minecraft, drawing, and reading. During the funeral, their family said they loved to cook and would often make up their own recipes. Nex was also a straight-A student. A previous version of this story said that Nex was a member of the Cherokee nation; they were of Choctaw ancestry. A previous version also referenced an incorrect date for the passage of Oklahoma's anti-trans bill restricting bathroom access. Get the best of whats queer. Sign up for Thems weekly newsletter here. Originally Appeared on them. The main point of investing for the long term is to make money. But more than that, you probably want to see it rise more than the market average. But Bank of Montreal (TSE:BMO) has fallen short of that second goal, with a share price rise of 24% over five years, which is below the market return. The last year has been disappointing, with the stock price down 2.6% in that time. So let's assess the underlying fundamentals over the last 5 years and see if they've moved in lock-step with shareholder returns. View our latest analysis for Bank of Montreal In his essay The Superinvestors of Graham-and-Doddsville Warren Buffett described how share prices do not always rationally reflect the value of a business. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS). During five years of share price growth, Bank of Montreal actually saw its EPS drop 7.5% per year. The strong decline in earnings per share suggests the market isn't using EPS to judge the company. The falling EPS doesn't correlate with the climbing share price, so it's worth taking a look at other metrics. In fact, the dividend has increased over time, which is a positive. It could be that the company is reaching maturity and dividend investors are buying for the yield. The revenue growth of about 7.6% per year might also encourage buyers. You can see how earnings and revenue have changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values). We consider it positive that insiders have made significant purchases in the last year. Even so, future earnings will be far more important to whether current shareholders make money. You can see what analysts are predicting for Bank of Montreal in this interactive graph of future profit estimates. What About Dividends? As well as measuring the share price return, investors should also consider the total shareholder return (TSR). The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. We note that for Bank of Montreal the TSR over the last 5 years was 55%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! Story continues A Different Perspective Bank of Montreal shareholders are up 2.4% for the year (even including dividends). But that return falls short of the market. If we look back over five years, the returns are even better, coming in at 9% per year for five years. It may well be that this is a business worth popping on the watching, given the continuing positive reception, over time, from the market. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Bank of Montreal that you should be aware of before investing here. Bank of Montreal is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Canadian exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Curious about the One Lane Bridge Season 4 release date? We have all the latest information right here. One Lane Bridge is a New Zealand crime drama series created by Pip Hall and Philip Smith and skillfully directed by Peter Burger. Its first season, which premiered on April 20, 2020, quickly made an impact, and the third season continued the intrigue with its premiere on November 7, 2022. The storyline centers around Ariki Davis, a novice detective, investigating a mysterious series of deaths on a one-lane bridge near Queenstown. However, the investigation takes an unexpected turn as Ariki discovers a latent spiritual gift, posing significant threats to both his life and career. Heres all the One Lane Bridge Season 4 date information we know so far, and all the details on when it is coming out. Is there a One Lane Bridge Season 4 release date? One Lane Bridge Season 4 does not have an official release date, but it will likely be announced in the future. Currently, there is no official announcement regarding the status of One Lane Bridge Season 4. The series has neither been confirmed for renewal nor canceled at the time of writing. Fans of the show have been waiting for more than a year to hear an official update regarding the fourth season of One Lane Bridge. However, the creators have maintained secrecy about the future chapters of the series. This leaves fans in suspense, eagerly awaiting official updates about the future of the show. One Lane Bridge has received acclaim worldwide, reflected in its IMDb rating of 6.6/10. If One Lane Bridge gets the green light for the fourth season in the upcoming weeks, fans might be able to catch One Lane Bridge Season 4 on screens by mid-2025 or late 2025, considering filming and the writing has not yet begun. This date is an estimation based on the information we have so far. ComingSoon will provide an update to this story once we receive official details. The cast of One Lane Bridge includes Dominic Ona-Ariki as Ariki Davis, Joel Tobeck as Stephen Tremaine, Alison Bruce as Lois Tremaine, Alex Walker as Joe, Phoebe McKellar as Tilly, Michelle Langstone as Charlotte McCrae, Phil Brown as Mark Haggis McCrae, Nathalie Morris as Emma Ryder, and others. Where is One Lane Bridge Season 4 coming out? One Lane Bridge Season 4 is likely to come out on TVNZ 1, the same as the previous ones. Audiences can also catch the show on AMC Plus. The official synopsis for One Lane Bridge reads: During a murder investigation in Queenstown, an ambitious young detective reawakens a spiritual gift that endangers the case, his career, and his life. We finally have a new Mickey 17 release date after it was previously undated from its prior date of March Movies Tyler Treese 5 hours ago The new Jurassic World movie coming in 2025 has finally found its director after David Leitch exited the movie. According Movies Tyler Treese 5 hours ago The anime girl of your dreams, and everyone elses. Anime Luke Y. Thompson 7 hours ago Its always exciting when a new film is released by the Coen Brothers. The dynamic duo has produced some of Movies Jeff Ames 7 hours ago The post Will There Be a One Lane Bridge Season 4 Release Date & Is It Coming Out? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Employees at an aquarium in North Carolina were recently left baffled over how a female stingray got pregnant and wondered whether the shark she shares a tank with has anything to do with it. As reported by CBS News earlier this month, the Aquarium and Shark Lab in Hendersonville spoke about the pregnancy of the stingray, who is named Charlotte, in a Facebook livestream. They explained that her pregnancy remains a mystery to them because she hasn't been with a male stingray in about eight years. Even stranger, she was found with multiple shark bites, which could indicate shark mating. "The unique thing about Charlotte is we do not have a male ray," said Team ECCO founder and executive director Brenda Ramer. Charlotte, who is believed to be somewhere between 12 and 16 years old, is pregnant with three to four pups. She's been living in a tank with two male sharks, which would explain the shark bites. "The unique thing about Charlotte is we do not have a male ray," Ramer added. "There is a potential she mated with one of these young male sharks." While the news sparked speculation that one of the sharks was the father, Georgia Aquarium research scientist Kady Lyons insists it's not possible. In an interview with the Associated Press, she explained that they aren't dealing with "some shark-ray shenanigans," but a possible case of parthenogenesis. "Pretty confident that this is parthenogenesis .... and parthenogenesis literally translates into virgin birth or miracle birth," said Lyons, echoing the sentiment of the employees at the Aquarium and Shark Lab in Hendersonville. "It is very rare to happen." Essentially, parthenogenesis is asexual reproduction that happens when cells from the mother's eggs are created and merge with an egg. This can result in similar pups, but not clones. The aquarium initially described the pregnancy as a "once in a lifetime science mystery," but a shark can't impregnate a stingray. "I give the shark the same odds of being the father that I would give Elvis or Bigfoot of being the fatherzero," said Demian Chapman, senior scientist and Mote Marine Laboratory and Aqurium's center for shark research, in an interview with Forbes. California State University's shark lab director Chris Lowe added, "We know that many species of sharks and rays are capable of parthenogenesis (where a female [can] produce an offspring clone without mating with a male). This is a very interesting phenomenon and quite cool considering it occurs across so many species of sharks and rays, but we dont really know why this is so common across this group of animals and not others." Charlotte is due to give birth later this month. More on this The Duke of Sussex, who resides in California, said he has "considered" becoming a U.S. citizen in a recent interview with 'Good Morning America' Chris Jackson/Getty Prince Harry attends the Invictus Games in Germany on Sept. 13, 2023 Prince Harry's revelation that he has "considered" becoming a United States citizen has prompted speculation on what that would mean for his royal titles. The Duke of Sussex, 39, was interviewed by Good Morning America's Will Reeve last week during the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025's One Year to Go celebration in Canada. When Reeve asked how Harry was enjoying life in California, where he and Meghan Markle relocated in 2020 after stepping back as working members of the royal family, Prince Harry said he had thought about becoming a U.S. citizen. He clarified, "The American citizenship is a thought that has crossed my mind but certainly not something that is a high priority for me right now." Although Prince Harry said life in the U.S. was "amazing," he stopped short of feeling American. "Do I feel American? Um, no. I don't know how I feel," the Duke of Sussex responded to Reeve's question. Christoph Reichwein/picture alliance via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Germany on Sept. 13, 2023 Related: Prince Harry Speaks Out on King Charles' Cancer Diagnosis for First Time: 'I Love My Family' Should Prince Harry move forward with the process of becoming a U.S. citizen, he may have to give up his royal titles, according to the policy manual of the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services. The policy states, "Any applicant who has any titles of heredity or positions of nobility in any foreign state must renounce the title or the position. The applicant must expressly renounce the title in a public ceremony and USCIS must record the renunciation as part of the proceedings. Failure to renounce the title of position shows a lack of attachment to the Constitution." When taking the Oath of Allegiance, those with titles must state, "I further renounce the title of (give title or titles) which I have heretofore held" or "I further renounce the order of nobility (give the order of nobility) to which I have heretofore belonged." Mike Marsland/WireImage Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend Trooping the Colour 2018 Related: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Hit Back at Recent Criticism: 'This Couple Will Not Be Broken' However, Alphonse Provinziano of U.S. law firm Provinziano & Associates told Newsweek that the current law could be challenged. "I was interested in whether Prince Harry has to renounce all of his titles or not. It's a law stated by Congress, and all the Constitution says is Congress can't confer foreign titles. But it doesn't say anything about being a foreign citizen [or] having a title when you become a U.S. citizen," Provinziano explained. "I think there's actually a challenge to this under the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment because it treats people differently." Provinziano also noted that natural-born U.S. citizens can receive a title from a foreign government. This was the case when Meghan became the Duchess of Sussex upon her marriage to Prince Harry. The couple's 2-year-old daughter, Princess Lilibet, was also born in California without a royal title but became a princess when her grandfather King Charles acceded to the throne. Meanwhile, their 4-year-old son, Prince Archie, was born in the U.K. but also didn't become a prince until after the family had relocated to the U.S. Would that mean Meghan, 42, and their children would also have to give up their titles? While the children were previously listed on the royal family's official website as "Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor" and "Miss Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor," they are now styled as "Prince Archie of Sussex" and "Princess Lilibet of Sussex." Meghan and Prince Harry have since adopted their titles as the last name for their two children. "There is no Supreme Court case that interprets that code section merely because there's only been about a dozen American citizens who have had a prince or princess title," Provinziano explained to Newsweek. "It's something that theoretically could go all the way to the Supreme Court because the court would have to review the law to make sure it's constitutional." Andrew Chin/Getty Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at Invictus Games Winter Training Camp on Feb. 14, 2024 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! After Meghan and Prince Harry announced their engagement in November 2017, PEOPLE confirmed that she planned to become a citizen of the U.K. after their royal wedding. Although she didn't complete the rigorous process, the Duchess of Sussex talked about the difficulty of the U.K.'s citizenship exam on an episode of her Archetypes podcast. Meghan said, "That citizenship exam is so hard! I was studying for it, and I remember going, 'Oh my goodness.' I would ask my husband, 'Did you know this? Did you know this?' And people went, 'Oh, I had no idea.' " For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Interventions on global issues close to Prince Williams heart, like his dramatic statement calling for an end to the war in Gaza Tuesday, are likely to be an ongoing feature of his tenure as Prince of Wales, with sources saying the prince will continue to speak out on issues that he believes matter. In a clear suggestion that Tuesdays statementwhich called for an end to fighting, even though Israel remains implacably opposed to calls for a ceasefirewas a template for future interventions rather than a one-off, a palace source told The Daily Beast that William would likely make further comments on issues of global importance, saying, When he feels the need to say something, he will. Another royal source said that William would have been less likely to make such an unambiguous statement if he were king, but said that his father King Charles had created a model whereby the heir to the throne could speak out on issues that mattered to them. Prince William Calls for End to War in Gaza: Too Many Have Been Killed Critics might argue such a comparison is disingenuous, for while Charles is well known for campaigning on domestic issues such as architecture, the environment and alternative medicine, Williams statement represents an unprecedented, and passionate, intervention in one of the most watched, and divisive, world events of the moment. One former palace aide described it to the Times of London as a hot potato that Queen Elizabeth would not have wanted to grasp, whereas William has got his oven gloves on. The Daily Beast has been previously told by friends of the king that even when he was Prince of Wales he would sometimes stop himself while talking about a pet subject such as organic farming, and make a gesture miming his hands being handcuffed in front of him. William, by contrast, threw those handcuffs off today in what has been seen as an attempt to cast himself as a global statesman. One palace source speaking to the Times of London called it by way of a curtain-raiser, pre-publication, as punchy, adding it was a significant intervention by [HRH] on an important topic that is close to his heart. In his statement timed to be released while he was visiting the British Red Cross he said: I remain deeply concerned about the terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack on 7 October. Too many have been killed. I, like so many others, want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. There is a desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza. Its critical that aid gets in and the hostages are released. Sometimes it is only when faced with the sheer scale of human suffering that the importance of permanent peace is brought home. Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found and I refuse to give up on that. Britain's William, Prince of Wales, listens as he visits the British Red Cross at its headquarters in London, Britain, February 20, 2024. Kin Cheung/Pool via Reuters The unequivocal remarks drew a curt response from the Israeli government, with a spokesperson saying: Israelis of course want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible, and that will be possible once the 134 hostages are released, and once the Hamas terror army threatening to repeat the Oct. 7 atrocities is dismantled. We appreciate the Prince of Wales call for Hamas to free the hostages. We also recall with gratitude his statement from Oct. 11 condemning Hamas terror attacks and reaffirming Israels right of self-defense against them. Others were less diplomatic. Nigel Farage, the pro-Brexit, pro-Trump, right-wing politician and media personality who helped found the Reform UK party, said on X: Im not sure that our future king should be doing this. He should stick to the Baftas. However, Williams carefully worded statement does not take one side, or inflame divisions, as his critics frequently accuse Farage of doing. Next week William is set to join a conversation at a synagogue with young people from communities who are advocating against hatred and antisemitism. Kensington Palace released a statement on behalf of both William and Kate: The Prince and Princess were profoundly concerned by events that unfolded in late 2023 and continue to hold all the victims, their family and friends in their hearts and minds. Their Royal Highnesses continue to share in the hope of a better future for all those affected. While it is not clear whether William sought his fathers approval before making the remarks, which palace sources said were triggered by images of great human suffering, palace sources told The Daily Beast that governmental sign-off was obtained. A spokesman for the Prime Minister told the Telegraph: His comments echo those that you have heard previously from the Prime Minister as well. The Prime Minister has said before on a number of occasions that too many civilians have lost their liveswe want to see an end to the fighting in Gaza as soon as possible, so it is consistent with the Government position and we welcome that intervention. It is important that we speak [with] one voice as a nation. Smoke rises over Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from Israel, February 20, 2024. Susana Vera/Reuters Sources also compared Williams statement today to remarks he made while visiting Polish and British troops in Poland last year, speaking of, their shared determination to defend our shared freedoms in the context of Russias invasion of Ukraine. The argument seems to be that there is precedent for making remarks about global political situations. However, for the future king to appear to be criticizing Israels conduct is a very different proposition to praising troops defending oblique freedoms. Williams remarks will likely be welcomed by critics of Israels military operations, which has so far cost an estimated 29,000 Palestinian livesand who have called for a ceasefire. However, Andrew Percy, an MP and vice-chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on anti-Semitism, made clear his displeasure at Williams intervention. He told the Telegraph: The underlying principle of our constitutional monarchy is that members of the royal family do not engage in contentious political issues of the day on which there are divergent and strongly held beliefs in this country. Members of the Royal family would do well to remember that. However, Britains Chief Rabbi also welcomed Williams statement, writing on X, that William to date had shown a deep concern for the well being of all those affected by the conflict in the Middle East and his words of compassion today, which I welcome, are yet further evidence of this. His plan to visit a synagogue to learn more about the troubling global increase in antisemitism will send a powerful message that there must be no place for anti Jewish hatred in our society. 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. Alec Baldwin on the set of 'Rust' in Manchester, Vermont, 2021 - Credit: MEGA/GC Images Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was a fast-rising star in the world of indie film when she was hired to helm photography for Alec Baldwins pandemic passion project a low-budget Old West action flick titled Rust. She was so excited about the 21-day shoot scheduled at the picturesque Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico, her close friend told Rolling Stone. Born in Ukraine and a married mother of a nine-year-old son, Hutchins already had been dubbed one of American Cinematographers top new talents and received festival accolades for the 2020 arthouse superhero movie Archenemy starring Joe Manganiello. By all accounts, she was on the cusp of the next big leap in her impressive career. More from Rolling Stone What happened next will be the subject of a closely watched criminal trial set to begin Wednesday in downtown Santa Fe. The stunning tragedy that sent shockwaves through the film industry unfolded in the early afternoon of October 21, 2021 inside a tiny wooden church built in a mock Western town on the dusty former cattle ranch. The broad details are well-known: Baldwin, acting as both star and producer of the film, was rehearsing a gun draw with Hutchins, working on camera angles, when he accidentally discharged a prop weapon that had been loaded, somehow, with a live round. The bullet exploded from the .45-caliber Colt revolver, blasted through Hutchins chest and lodged in the shoulder of director Joel Souza. Hutchins, 42, was airlifted to a hospital but did not survive. Investigators quickly learned that the armorer hired to manage weapons, ammunition and gun safety on set was a 24-year-old rookie named Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. While others have been criminally charged in the high-profile case including Baldwin Gutierrez-Reed will be the first to face a jury. The stepdaughter of veteran Hollywood armorer Thell Reed, Gutierrez-Reed has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and evidence tampering. She has denied any wrongdoing, saying others bear responsibility for a long list of documented safety breakdowns on set. She says her pleas for more time to focus on gun prep and actor training as opposed to her competing and lower-paid duties as a props assistant were brushed aside. Her lawyers have suggested she may have been the victim of sabotage. Prosecutors, meanwhile, allege Gutierrez-Reed was negligent, repeatedly intoxicated and hungover during the shoot, failing at the most basic responsibilities of her important job. The only type of ammunition that should have been present on the set was blank and dummy ammunition, prosecutors wrote in their summary of the case filed earlier this month. Ms. Gutierrez inadvertently loaded a fully functioning .45 caliber single action army revolver with dummy rounds and at least one live round and provided the gun to Alec Baldwin to use for a scene in the movie. Predictably, Mr. Baldwin manipulated the gun, and the gun went off, unexpectedly killing Ms. Hutchins. Prosecutors allege photographs depict live rounds on the Rust set on four separate dates before the day of the shooting and that six live rounds were ultimately recovered, including the bullet that killed Hutchins. The live rounds were located in the gun being manipulated by Alec Baldwin, in a box of supposed dummy ammunition brought on the set by Ms. Gutierrez, in the gun belt worn by the character in the movie played by actor Jensen Ackles and in the bandolier worn by (Mr.) Baldwin, the paperwork states. Two live rounds were found on top of the prop cart used by Gutierrez-Reed. While Gutierrez-Reeds defense team has floated the theory that a disgruntled crew member possibly planted the live ammunition, prosecutors claim theres no evidence to support that. They instead believe Gutierrez-Reed was indulging in drugs and alcohol and simply got careless. They claim text messages extracted from her phone show that when someone asked if she needed any cocaine one week prior to arriving on set, Gutierrez-Reed replied, Already got some. They say a hotel employee who befriended Gutierrez-Reed reported that the armorer was in possession of ammunition for the movie while also smoking weed, off hours, in her hotel room. In a Jan. 31 filing, prosecutors included excerpts from several of the allegedly damaging text exchanges. Make sure your weed is out of sight and the room doesnt smell like weed, an unidentified hotel worker texted Gutierrez-Reed the night before the shooting, referring to another hotel worker coming to her room. Lmao I know that, wasnt gonna have him check it out today, Gutierrez-Reed responded. In a separate text to an unidentified transportation crew member that same night, Gutierrez-Reed allegedly wrote, I might go smoke in the jacuzzi soon, and, Headed down to get high out back. Prosecutors say other texts suggest Gutierrez-Reed was using cocaine as a stimulant on the demanding, high-pressure set. In one exchange from Oct. 17, 2021, Gutierrez-Reed was texting with an unidentified crew member about their long hours and wrote, I got something that can wake you up too. In possibly their most explosive claim, prosecutors allege Gutierrez-Reed handed off a bag of cocaine to a crew member named Rebecca Smith just hours after the deadly shooting. Smith allegedly told police that she visited Gutierrez-Reed shortly after the armorer spoke with investigators and that Gutierrez-Reed placed a baggie containing a white powdery substance in her hand as she was leaving. Smith allegedly said she believed the bag contained cocaine, so she ditched it in a hotel trash can. Prosecutors say Gutierrez-Reed texted Smith two days after the shooting, asking for her stuff back. When investigators asked what Gutierrez-Reed was referring to, Smith purportedly replied, a bag of cocaine. (The alleged transfer of narcotics is the basis for the evidence tampering charge that was added against Gutierrez-Reed in June.) In another exchange that a judge ruled inadmissible at trial, prop master Sarah Zachry texted prop supplier Seth Kenney that Gutierrez-Reed was blackout drunk during the weekend before the fatal shooting. Oh god, no, Kenney responded on October 25, 2021. Gutierrez-Reeds lawyers have called the allegation their client was hungover or high at the time of the shooting recklessly false. In a Feb. 1 filing asking to sever the evidence tampering charge, they said the states allegations were centered on blatant falsehoods built on inadmissible and highly prejudicial speculation. They said the alleged cocaine was never recovered, never tested, and that the law enforcement personnel who interacted with Gutierrez-Reed immediately after the shooting police who are trained to notice when suspects or witnesses are under the influence never observed or noted any intoxication. The defense lawyers also point to the Occupational Health and Safety Bureau (OHSB) investigation that found a long list of safety breakdowns on the Rust set. The bureau found that Gutierrez-Reed was scolded by line producer Gabrielle Pickle a week before Hutchins death because she was prioritizing guns over other props. It has been brought to my attention that you are focusing far more on Armor and not supporting props as needed, Pickle wrote in the chastising email excerpted in the OHSBs report. Gutierrez-Reed responded that she needed time to focus on guns for everyones safety. Three days later, Pickle told Gutierrez-Reed there would be no more training days, Like training Alec and such. According to Gutierrez-Reeds defense, oversights and bad decisions made by others on set have been thoroughly documented, whereas claims about Gutierrez-Reeds sobriety are conjecture. Prosecutors say theyre not worried about the case theyve built. The state concedes that it cannot prove with direct evidence such as blood test that Ms. Gutierrez may have been impaired at least slightly on October 21, 2021, but there is more than enough circumstantial evidence that a jury should be able to hear it and consider it because consistent substance abuse is relevant to the element of negligence, prosecutors argued in pre-trial filings. They called it absurd to suggest that Gutierrez-Reed handed a small bag of powdered sugar to Smith and then tried for four weeks to get her baggie of powdered sugar returned. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed (right) speaks with a sheriffs deputy shortly after the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins. At a hearing in the case last week, New Mexico Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer rejected the defense request to sever the tampering charge into a separate trial and ruled some of the texts about Gutierrez-Reeds drug use could be shown to jurors. The relevant ones are the one where shes smoking weed with ammo in the hotel room, and that shes smoking in the jacuzzi, the judge said. She also allowed the after the fact texts about the alleged cocaine hand-off. Beyond the allegations of intoxication, prosecutors contend Gutierrez-Reed also frequently left guns and ammunition unattended on her prop cart or elsewhere during the film shoot. They say this practice is relevant because her own negligence created the opportunity for sabotage, if in fact there was sabotage. While Ms. Gutierrez is not charged with intentional homicide, she is charged with homicide based on negligence. There was not one negligent act that led to this tragedy. The tragedy occurred due to a series of negligent acts given that the live rounds were on set well before October 21, 2021, prosecutors wrote. After the judges Feb. 14 rulings, lead defense lawyer Jason Bowles told Rolling Stone he considered it a win that his side was given a green light to introduce the OHSB probe. We are pleased with the ruling that (OHSB) findings will be allowed in trial. We are evaluating our options as to the other rulings, Bowles, a former federal prosecutor, wrote in an email. A novice armorer whose only other credit as a head armorer was for the Nicolas Cage Western The Old Way, Gutierrez-Reed is expected to stake much of her defense on the allegation that it was Baldwin who engaged in unsafe behavior when he pointed the gun at Hutchins and manipulated it. Gutierrez-Reed claims that on the day of the shooting the same day most of the camera crew walked off the set in a protest over working conditions she would have intervened and stopped Baldwin from pointing the gun had she been allowed inside the church for the rehearsal. Last month, Baldwin was once again indicted on a charge of involuntary manslaughter after the same charge was dismissed against him last April. He has pleaded not guilty. In a lengthy interview with ABCs George Stephanopoulos after the fatal shooting, Baldwin claimed he was following step-by-step instructions from Hutchins seconds before the weapon discharged. Everything is her direction. Shes guiding me through how she wants me to hold the gun for this angle, Baldwin said. The actor claimed that after Hutchins confirmed she was able to get a good close-up shot of Baldwin manipulating the weapon, he let go of the hammer. Bang! The gun goes off, Baldwin told Stephanopoulos, denying that he ever pulled the trigger. Prosecutors have been skeptical of Baldwins assertion he didnt depress the trigger. A forensic report commissioned by prosecutors and obtained by the New York Times determined the old-fashioned revolver would have needed about two pounds of pressure on the trigger to discharge a round. The witness list for the defense suggests Gutierrez-Reed plans to call her stepdad to the stand. Thell Reed is famous for serving as armorer on Hollywood blockbusters including Tombstone, The Quick and the Dead, L.A. Confidential and 3:10 to Yuma. If called, hes expected to testify that his stepdaughter acted safely when handling guns on the Rust set. In his interviews with investigators, Reed floated yet another defense theory: that it was Seth Kenney, a prop supplier for Rust, who may have introduced the live rounds to the set. Reed claimed he gave Kenney a bucket containing mixed live and dummy ammo after a training event linked to another production. He purportedly told investigators he suspected the live round that ended up in Baldwins prop gun was from that bucket. Kenney has confirmed his Albuquerque-based company, PDQ Arm & Prop, did supply guns and dummy rounds to Rust, but he claimed every dummy round was individually tested before it was sent out. As prosecutors pursue their cases against Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin, one person closely tied to the deadly shooting already has faced accountability. Assistant Director Dave Halls entered a no-contest plea to a misdemeanor charge of negligent use of a deadly weapon last Mach. As previously reported by Rolling Stone, Halls admitted to investigators after the shooting that he failed to check all chambers of the revolver before taking it from Gutierrez-Reed, declaring it a cold gun meaning it had no live rounds and handing it to Baldwin. Under his plea deal, Halls was due to serve six months of unsupervised probation. After the first criminal case against Baldwin was dropped last year, Rust went back into production to finish its remaining scenes. Last day of filming RUST in Montana, Baldwin wrote in an Instagram post shared May 22 that congratulated Souza and the new cinematographer Bianca Cline. Its been a long and difficult road. But we reach the end of the trail today, he wrote. Nothing less than a miracle. Producers were shopping the film at the Cannes Film Festival last year but have yet to announce a sale. Beyond the criminal prosecutions, the deadly shooting also is the subject of multiple civil lawsuits filed by crew members and members of Hutchins family. While Hutchins husband previously settled a lawsuit against Baldwin and went on to become an executive producer of Rust, Hutchins parents and sister are still suing. A lawyer for Hutchins Ukraine-based family members tells Rolling Stone they will not be attending Gutierrez-Reeds trial in person. They live in a war zone in Ukraine, lawyer Gloria Allred says. Our legal team will keep them informed about important evidence in the case. They have no comment at this time. Best of Rolling Stone PORTSMOUTH Dozens of Seacoast residents who support a school in Haiti come out once a year to dance, drink and celebrate the progress they have seen at the Eben Ezer School since they first got involved in 2010. Combo Sabroso has brought its Latin and reggae vibe for more than a decade to the annual Caribbean Nights Dance Party to raise funds for the Eben Ezer School in Haiti. The dance will be 7 p.m. on April 6 at 3S Art Space in Portsmouth. Combo Sabroso will be back at the Caribbean Nights Party in Portsmouth Saturday, April 6, with its unique blend of reggae and Latin music as it helps raise money for the Eben Ezer School, which now educates more then 500 children thanks to 17 years of support from the Seacoast. Dozens of residents as well as several Rotary Clubs in the Seacoast support this school in a country where half the people cant read or write and more than half of adults are unemployed. I love this project and organization because any participation or support feels so personal and impactful, said Vicki Steward of Eliot, who supports a teacher at the school and will speak at the dance. The pictures, videos and grassroots donations allow our community to feel like we are an important part of their community. The Caribbean Nights Party will include an update on progress at the school amidst the profound political and social challenges Haiti has faced in recent years. The Eben Ezer School was started by Haitian American Lucia Anglade of New York on the land where she grew up. Several of the board members for the non-profit that runs the school, Life and Hope Haiti, are from the Seacoast. The room has filled in the past few years, as people learn of the school and Combo Sabroso, which has helped raise money for students in Milot since the first dance in 2010. More than 500 children attend the Eben Ezer School in MIlot, Haiti, which is largely supported by residents of the Seacoast. The annual Caribbean Nights Party fundraiser will be 7 p.m., April 6, at 3S Art Space in Portsmouth. Combo Sabroso, which draws a full house to the annual fundraiser, has long played a part in helping the Eben Ezer School educate children in Milot in the hills of northern Haiti. Tickets - $30 in advance and $40 at the door - are available on line through Paypal at lifeandhopehaiti.org/donate. They can also be purchased at A Little Something in South Berwick, Ceres Bakery in Portsmouth, and Lils Cafe in Kittery. More information is available from newslifeandhope@yahoo.com. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Seacoast dancing for Haiti for more than a decade The unnamed woman who filed a sexual abuse lawsuit against Interscope Records co-founder Jimmy Iovine in November has dropped the case, according to a document filed in New York court on Thursday (Feb. 15). The case has been discontinued in its entirety with prejudice, meaning the woman cannot refile. The matter was resolved to the satisfaction of the parties, said the plaintiffs lawyer, Doug Wigdor, in a statement sent to Billboard. More from Billboard A representative for Iovine did not immediately respond to Billboards request for comment. On Nov. 22, a summons with notice was filed ahead of a complete lawsuit by the womans attorneys, Wigdor and Meredith Firetog of Wigdor Law. In it, the Jane Doe plaintiff accused Iovine of multiple instances of abuse, including a specific incident of sexual misconduct that occurred in New York in 2007. According to public court records reviewed by Billboard, the full lawsuit was never filed. The summons which effectively extended the deadline to submit a complete lawsuit was filed just ahead of the Nov. 23 expiration of New Yorks Adult Survivors Act, which created a one-year window for alleged survivors to take legal action over years-old accusations that would typically be barred under the statute of limitations. It came amid a flurry of similar lawsuits aimed at music industry giants including L.A. Reid, Axl Rose and Sean Diddy Combs. Originally a recording engineer, Iovine co-founded Interscope Records with Ted Field in 1990 and went on to launch such stars as No Doubt, 2Pac, Eminem, Beck and Lady Gaga. He later became chairman/CEO of Interscope Geffen A&M and co-founded Beats Electronics and Beats Music with Dr. Dre, which were acquired by Apple in 2014 for a combined $3 billion. Iovine served as a creative consultant for Apple Music until August 2018. UPDATE: This article was updated on Feb. 20 at 10:59 p.m. EST with a statement from the plaintiffs attorney. Best of Billboard ReFit Global has recently secured the deal in episode 22 of Shark Tank India. Saket Saurav, and Avneet Singh, founders of ReFit Global, presented their innovative idea to the sharks and sought an investment of $241 thousand (2 Crore) for 0.5 percent equity. Additionally, ReFit Global has a valuation of $48.2 million (400 Crores). Refit Global brand refurbishes old phones and sells them with a new warranty. Moreover, the brand procures exchanges of phones from e-commerce platforms, marketplaces, and retail brand stores. During the episode, the founders revealed that they have an in-house diagnostic app on every phone that runs a test on 47 parameters. Additionally, these diagnostic reports further help them in refurbishing the phones. They also ensure that tests are conducted both before and after the repair process. Further, they revealed that they started Refit Global in 2017, and to date, they have sold over 1 million devices. Recently they have not only launched the online platform but also have an offline mode platform based on a Zero Dead Stock model. After several offers and counter-offers, Saket and Avneet sealed the deal with three SharksAmit, Anupam, and Vineeta with $241 thousand for 1 percent equity. Additionally, offers also include a 1 percent royalty until $361 thousand (3 Crore) is recouped. ReFit Global on Shark Tank India season 3: Where to buy, products, price & more According to the website, ReFit Global deals in various brands such as Apple, Asus, Gionee, Nokia, Oneplus, and many more. Currently, the website offers Refurbished Apple iPhone 7 (2GB/128 GB) at $108.54 (8,999) Refurbished Apple iPhone 6 Plus (1GB/64GB) at $112.15 (9,299) Refurbished LG G8s ThinQ (6GB/128GB) at $90.45 (7,499) Refurbished Samsung Galaxy A5 (2016) (2GB/16GB) at $36.17 (2,999) Aside from this, ReFit currently offers flat $3.02 off (250) on the first order with the code RF250. Moreover, these products are delivered with an assured 6-month warranty and an easy 3-day replacement policy. So, if you are planning to buy a refurbished phone, go and check out their official website. The post Shark Tank India Season 3 Episode 22: What Is ReFit Global? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Nearly five years after the completion of their farewell tour, Slayer will return to the stage as one of the headliners for the Louder Than Life festival, which will take place Sept. 26-29 at the Highland Festival Grounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky. Motley Crue, Slipknot and Korn round out the top of the bill. Louder Than Life will be held the weekend after the similarly massive Bourbon and Beyond festival at the same venue; both events are produced by Danny Wimmer Presents. Additional acts include Disturbed, Judas Priest, Evanescence, the Offspring, Staind, Till Lindemann, Chevelle, Dropkick Murphys, Halestorm, Gojira, Anthrax, Sum 41, Mastodon, Body Count, Eagles of Death Metal, Sponge and Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello. More from Spin: Were thrilled to announce that Slayer will be reuniting for an earth-shattering performance at Louder Than Life, says Wimmer of Slayer, which will also perform the prior weekend at Riot Fest in Chicago. I was at their last show at the Forum in 2019 and have been working since then to bring them back to the Louder stage. With over 140 bands on five stages, were celebrating our 10th Louder Than Life with the biggest lineup yet. Nothing compares to the 90 minutes when were on stage playing live, sharing that intense energy with our fans, and to be honest, we have missed that, Slayer vocalist/bassist Tom Araya admits. Have I missed playing live? Absolutely. Slayer means a lot to our fans; they mean a lot to us. It will be five years since we have seen them, adds guitarist Kerry King. As always, Louder Than Life will also offer numerous whiskey- and bourbon-related activations from Jack Daniels, Metallicas Blackened whiskey and Kroger. For ticket information, visit LouderThanLife.com. On Friday (Feb. 23), Louder Than Life will host a food drive at a Kroger location in Louisvilles Houston Acres, during which fans can donate five non-perishable items in exchange for free tickets. The following evening, more passes will be given away at Taj, while on Sunday, giveaways will take place at a Bellarmine University wrestling competition at Knights Hall. To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here. Raad Almansoori has been identified as a suspect in the death of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, who was found dead in her hotel room at the SoHo 54 Hotel Surprise Police Department Raad Almansoori - Suspect in New York Hotel Death Arrested After Alleged Crime Spree in Arizona Days after a homicide in a New York City hotel room, a suspect was arrested in Arizona related to another crime. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said in a press conference on Tuesday that authorities have probable cause to arrest Raad Almansoori in relation to the stabbing homicide that took place between 2:14 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7 and 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8 at the Soho 54 Hotel in Manhattan. On Feb. 8 at 10:30 a.m., the victim, Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, a female Hispanic, 38-years-old, a resident of Queens with no criminal history, was discovered by hotel staff, deceased on the floor of her rented room, Kenny said. She was pronounced dead at 10:47 a.m. and the medical examiner determined that her death was caused by blunt force trauma to the head. A broken iron was recovered at the scene, and we recovered bits of plastic that were found embedded inside of her skull, Kenny said. On Sunday, Almansoori, 26, was arrested in Arizona while driving a stolen car and informed law enforcement that he is wanted for homicide in New York City. Kenny said that the suspect told the cops that they should Google Soho 54 hotel, which is where Oleas-Arancibia was found dead in her room earlier this month. 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. Prior to his arrest, police said that Almansoori committed a knife-point carjacking in Phoenix, Arizona, where he stabbed his female victim, and escaped the scene. The very next day he dragged a female employee of a McDonald's into the ladies room, held her against her will and stabbed her several times, Kenny said. Almansoori was arrested later that day by Arizona police. He has an extensive out of state arrest history, Kenny said, and was previously arrested in Florida and Texas. While in custody in Arizona, Almansoori told authorities he hurt three additional girls in Florida, Kenny said in the press conference. Authorities are currently working to arrange extradition back to New York City so Almansoori can be charged for the homicide here, Kenny said. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. BRISTOL, Conn., February 21, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the face of critical aerospace engine component repair capacity constraints within the aerospace industry, Barnes Aerospace is excited to announce that it has added a new component repair facility in Singapore. Barnes Aerospaces component repair capacity to support customers needs in the region will increase, as does the facility footprint by approximately 50%. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone for Barnes Aerospace as it enhances its capacity to provide cutting-edge aerospace engine component repair services in the heart of the Asia-Pacific region. The expansion is underpinned by a technology investment program which permits additional overhaul and repairs of complex high-value fabricated engine cases. Eager customers are already engaging to secure attractive repair capacities with Barnes Aerospace, a globally trusted partner. Strategically located in Singapore's thriving aerospace hub, JTCs Seletar Aerospace Park, the new facility represents a substantial investment in advancing Barnes Aerospace's capabilities and adding to its existing manufacturing as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) footprint in Singapore. The expansion is designed to meet the growing demands of the aerospace industry and strengthen Barnes Aerospace's position as a key player in engine component repair and maintenance. The additional working space, capital improvements and new equipment will support aerospace engine casing, knife edge seals and honeycomb repairs and has additional space for further growth. Ms Lim Ai Ting, Director for Aerospace & Marine Cluster, JTC, said, "Adding to the established base of MRO players in Seletar Aerospace Park, Barnes Aerospaces expansion is another milestone for us as it not only increases MRO capacities, but it also reinforces our position as the leading MRO hub in the region. We remain dedicated to supporting the success and growth of businesses, bolstering our vibrant aerospace ecosystem in Singapore." Story continues Barnes Aerospace also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) to facilitate this expansion. "We welcome the expansion by Barnes Aerospace, which further solidifies Singapore as a global node for aerospace manufacturing as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). Our aerospace industry is experiencing strong growth as companies expand their operations here to support the recovery in air travel. EDB will continue to partner with aerospace companies on their growth plans to create good job opportunities for Singaporeans," said Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President of EDB. "We are excited to add capacity to help address critical capacity bottlenecks for our loyal customers amid the resurgence of commercial flight demand," said Ian Reason, Senior Vice President, Barnes and President, Barnes Aerospace. "Our presence in Singapore will continue to foster collaboration among Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and signify our long-term vision for the Asia-Pacific region. Were committed to building a robust infrastructure and a talented workforce to support the thriving aerospace industry." With a strong heritage in the component repair and Aftermarket sector, Barnes Aerospace is well-positioned to promptly deliver resilient support amid the growing demands of aerospace OEMs and Operators. Barnes Aerospaces existing footprint in Singapore includes 51,000 square feet at the Loyang MRO facility and 140,000 square feet at our Changi North Crescent manufacturing facilities. About JTC Since its inception in 1968, JTC has played a strategic role in ensuring Singapore stays innovative and dynamic amid global manufacturing trends. As a government agency under Singapores Ministry of Trade and Industry, JTC is paving the way forward for Singapores industrial landscape with sustainable, green and smart estate masterplans such as one-north, Seletar Aerospace Park, Jurong Innovation District, and Punggol Digital District. Our estates attract new investment and foster collaborative ecosystems that strengthen Singapores position as an advanced manufacturing hub. We also drive innovation in the Built Environment sector by piloting new construction technologies. For more information on JTC, visit http://www.jtc.gov.sg About Singapores EDB The Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), a government agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, is responsible for strategies that enhance Singapores position as a global centre for business, innovation, and talent. We undertake investment promotion and industry development, and work with international businesses, both foreign and local, by providing information, connection to partners and access to government incentives for their investments. Our mission is to create sustainable economic growth, with vibrant business and good job opportunities for Singapore and Singaporeans. For more information visit: www.edb.gov.sg. About Barnes Aerospace Barnes Aerospace, a business of Barnes, manufactures and maintains highly engineered parts for the aerospace and related industries globally. With elevated experience, Barnes Aerospace has a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement and the relentless pursuit of next. Barnes Aerospace offers strict compliance with customer, regulatory, and third-party standards (e.g., ISO, AS, NADCAP) for the Commercial Aerospace, Defense/Military, Energy, and Space industries where quality is crucial. For more information, please visit www.barnesaero.com. About Barnes Group Barnes Group Inc. (NYSE: B) leverages world-class manufacturing capabilities and market-leading engineering to develop advanced processes, automation solutions, and applied technologies for industries ranging from aerospace and medical & personal care to mobility and packaging. With a celebrated legacy of pioneering excellence, Barnes delivers exceptional value to customers through advanced manufacturing capabilities and cutting-edge industrial technologies. Barnes Aerospace specializes in the production and servicing of intricate fabricated and precision-machined components for both commercial and military turbine engines, nacelles, and airframes. Barnes Industrial excels in advancing the processing, control, and sustainability of engineered plastics and delivering innovative, custom-tailored solutions for industrial automation and metal forming applications. Established in 1857 and headquartered in Bristol, Connecticut, USA, the Company has manufacturing and support operations around the globe. For more information, please visit www.onebarnes.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240221595235/en/ Contacts Media Contact Beth Wilkerson Senior Marketing Manager 419.206.6630 Investor Contact William Pitts Vice President, Investor Relations 860.583.7070 The actor's wife of nearly 27 years said on Wednesday's 'The Family Stallone' season 2 premiere that she needed to "change it up" after their marriage hit a rough patch Jon Kopaloff/Getty Sylvester Stallone and Jennifer Flavin The Stallone family plans on making moves literally. On Wednesdays premiere of The Family Stallone season 2, Sylvester Stallone informed his daughters Scarlet, Sistine and Sophia of a big decision he and wife Jennifer Flavin Stallone made. After long, hard consideration, your mother and I have decided, time to move on and leave the state of California permanently, and were going to go to Florida, Sylvester, 77, announced. Related: The Family Stallone Girls Navigate Love Without Making Dad Sylvester Go 'Ballistic' in Season 2 (Exclusive) Jennifer, 55, explained to her daughters, Its an empty nest. I need to change it up. Jennifer and Sly became empty nesters after Sophia, 27, and Sistine, 25, moved in together in New York City and Scarlet, 21, headed off to college at the University of Miami. I raised all three of our daughters in California. Everythings a memory to me, memories of them not being there anymore, Jennifer said in a confessional interview. So I needed a big change, and Sly went along with it. John Salangsang/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Sylvester Stallone with daughters (from left) Sistine, Scarlet, and Sophia and wife Jennifer Flavin The decision to move to Florida came following the reconciling of Sylvester and Jennifer, who tied the knot in May 1997, after she filed for divorce in August 2022. One month later, a Florida court filing stated that Sly and Jennifer decided to resolve all issues attendant to the dissolution of their marriage in a dignified, amicable and private manner out-of-court." A source reiterated to PEOPLE at the time that the couple chose to work out their differences. The Rambo actor admitted on Wednesdays episode that he didnt love the idea of relocating. We have a lot of roots in California, so its not an easy transition to Florida, he said in a confessional. But Jennifer really had her heart set on it. I gave in. Sistine referred to the move as a great idea, but Scarlet felt differently. Scarlet later told Jennifer that she eventually saw herself raising her own kids in the house where she grew up. I actually wanted to take over this house after you guys to raise my family, Scarlet said. Later in the episode, Sylvester met up with his Lords of Flatbush costars Jon Lovitz and Henry Winkler for what he called my true farewell. The thing is, I dont want to shake things up, but I know my wife wants big adventure, Sly told his former costars. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Sylvester Stallone and Jennifer Flavin (far left) with daughters (from left) Sistine, Sophia and Scarlet Reuniting with some of his first Hollywood costars brought up memories of his early days on the west coast for Sly. "It's not easy for me to leave California," the New York City native said. "That's where I got my start, thats where I got my break." Back home in bed, the Rocky star wondered whether its the right move to leave California for Florida. This has great ramifications, Sly said to Jennifer. Lets say it doesnt work out, now what? The house that we love that, we had built, gone. Related: Jennifer Flavin Says She and Sylvester Stallone Are Proud of Their Daughters' Creative Pursuits (Exclusive) Jennifer had a positive outlook about the change. We can make new memories, new beginnings," she assured the three-time Oscar nominee. Sly committed to trying out life in Florida for Jennifers sake, telling the cameras, No matter how Im feeling, I owe it to Jen to go through this move. 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. New episodes of The Family Stallone drop Wednesdays on Paramount+. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Wondering where to watch and stream Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 online? Look no further, as we have covered all the details right here. Set in the 1990s, this series follows American journalist Jake Adelstein as he relocates to Japan and becomes part of a major Japanese newspaper. Assigned to the Tokyo Vice police squad, Adelstein delves deep into the perilous underworld of the Japanese yakuza. Heres where you will be able to watch Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 online. Is Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 streaming online? Yes, you will be able to watch and stream Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 on HBO Max. The cast of Tokyo Vice includes Ansel Elgort as Jake Adelstein, Ken Watanabe as Hiroto Katagiri, Rachel Keller as Samantha Porter, Hideaki Ito as Jin Miyamoto, Show Kasamatsu as Sato, Rinko Kikuchi as Emi Maruyama, Ella Rumpf as Polina, Tomohisa Yamashita as Akira, Kosuke Toyohara as Baku, Masato Hagiwara as Duke, Shun Sugata as Hitoshi Ishida, Eugene Nomura as Kobayashi, and more. How to watch Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 and stream online As Tokyo Vice Season 2 is available to watch via HBO Max, you will be able to watch its episodes by signing up. HBO Max offers three subscription plans to users. They are: HBO Max Ad-Supported Plan It costs $9.99 a month and allows users to stream content with commercials. HBO Max Ad-Free Plan It costs $15.99 a month and allows users to stream content without commercials. HBO Max Ultimate Plan It costs $19.99 a month and offers additional perks and features compared to the other plans. The official synopsis for Tokyo Vice Season 2 reads: A first-hand account of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police beat following Jake Adelstein, an American journalist who embeds himself into the Tokyo Vice police squad to reveal corruption. Based on Jake Adelsteins non-fiction book of the same name. Hulus new TV and movie releases for February 19-25 2024 include The Good Doctor Season 7, which will serve as Guides Abdul Azim Naushad 3 days ago HBO Maxs new TV and movie releases for February 19-25 2024 include the films San Andreas and Machete Kills. Starting Guides Abdul Azim Naushad 3 days ago Peacocks new TV and movie releases for February 19-25 2024 include Tyrese Gibsons Squealer. On February 23, viewers can stream Guides Abdul Azim Naushad 3 days ago Paramount Pluss new TV and movie releases for February 19-25 2024 include the Jake Gyllenhaal-Michael Pena action-thriller movie End of Guides Abdul Azim Naushad 3 days ago The post Tokyo Vice Season 2 Episode 5 Streaming: How to Watch & Stream Online appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Tom Schwartz - Credit: Gizelle Hernandez/Bravo For years, Tom Schwartz has been known on Vanderpump Rules for being one of the Toms, half of a duo with his longtime best friend Tom Sandoval. The Toms have opened bars together, built businesses, and created personal and professional identities around their friendship. It was a solid game plan until the world turned on Sandoval last year after learning about his months-long affair with Rachel Leviss. Seemingly simply as a result of being one of the Toms, Schwartz also found himself on the outs for sticking by his friend (and maybe, definitely playing a part in the Scandoval deception). Schwartzs friendship with the rest of the Vanderpump cast took a hit, and his relationship with Sandovals ex, Ariana Madix, dissolved completely. Schwartz and Sandys, his shared bar and restaurant with Sandoval, also took the brunt of the fallout when people began spamming Yelp with bad reviews as a way to support Madix and tear down Sandoval. More from Rolling Stone When cameras picked back up filming for Season 11 of VPR, Schwartz found himself in unchartered territory, having to navigate damaged relationships and rebuild his own reputation apart from Sandoval, all while dealing with personal struggles of his own. As James Kennedy said in the first episode of this season: Youre your best Tom when youre just Tom Schwartz. But on a whirlwind press day full of interviews, one would have no idea the highs and lows Schwartz has been through this past year. He is all smiles over Zoom, visiting New York City to be a guest on Andy Cohens Watch What Happens Live after Tuesday nights episode of VPR airs. And the cheery disposition isnt a facade. Im just feeling full of gratitude, Schwartz tells Rolling Stone. Im on a bit of a wave right now after a pretty gloomy past few years, Im riding kind of high. But before we go any further, dear reader, we owe it to you to be honest: before the interview began, Schwartzs publicist made it clear that he would not be commenting on Sandovals unhinged New York Times interview published Tuesday morning in which he compared the media attention surrounding Scandoval to O.J. Simpson and George Floyd. We did try to ask, though. Schwartz did, however, open up about his post-Scandoval identity crisis, his momentary thoughts of quitting the show altogether, and why he keeps defending Sandoval to the rest of the world. Ultimately, he just wants people to know: Im not Tom Sandovals sidekick, Im not just Katies ex husband. Im Tom Schwartz. How did it feel returning to film Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules with all the added attention from Scandoval? People usually use the word traumatizing so loosely, but it was kind of traumatizing and daunting. I dont want to be singing a sad song too much, but at some point, I really was adversely affected by that whole thing. I kind of went into hiding. I didnt turn into a full-blown recluse, but I was a bit of a hermit and a basket case and not just because of the incident and having my reputation severely tarnished because of someone elses actions, but other stuff was going on with my family, and I was still coming out of the divorce. I was just fucking sad, to be honest, having almost lost loved ones. When your familys not doing well its really hard to enjoy the little things in life or to go about your business. Its hard to be present during those moments when your loved one is sick. I gotta be honest, I kind of lost myself the past year or two. I did. I had a bit of an identity crisis. Im happy to say I think Im back. During the first few episodes of this season, you opened up about your dads health scare and your brothers battle with addiction. What made you decide to share that on the show? When youre doing the show, although when youre in the trenches, it can be horrific, ultimately, after each season, I feel its cathartic. This is kind of my therapy. I dont have a designated therapist. I havent sought professional help, but filming the show was an opportunity for me to use my friends as surrogate therapists and open up to them in a way that I dont usually. Not that Im not emotionally available. I am. But I just dont like to burden people with my problems. Are you open to actual therapy? Heck, yeah. You said watching your brother struggle with alcoholism made you reevaluate your own drinking habits. Is that something youre still thinking about and working through? Yeah. When I said, I was sober, curious. I meant that in the most positive way, not in a gimmicky way. When Im sober, I go hard in the paint. I love waking up early, working out, having green tea and matcha, detoxing, eating healthy, and intermittent fasting; I like all that stuff. But I also like falling apart. I think its good to fall apart once in a while, you know, and ultimately, moderation is key. Hopefully, it will be a cautionary tale for other people watching the show. Its a fine line between being a social drinker and becoming a problem drinker, and then, at some point, the lines can blur. What happened with my brother was very gradual. He was a social drinker for so long, but he did suffer from PTSD, and he used drinking as a kind of a crutch or a numbing agent to sort of heal after that. When you wake up one day and you are literally dependent on alcohol, its insane. I witnessed it firsthand and you become a kind of a slave to booze, your whole day revolves around it, and its a nasty disease. If youre hearing this and you think you might have a problem, get some help, go to rehab, get counseling. My brother was all but dead. They stamped his medical records with hospice. But now hes got his glow back; hes got his spirit back. You mentioned going through an identity crisis amid Scandoval. What were those months like? I think I cowered under the unrelenting hate and just getting roasted online so much. If youre not going through it, you might just think, okay, just dont look at the internet, stay off social media. But I use that as a tool to market businesses that Im associated with and brand building, and, I dont know, its hard not to sometimes. Theres a morbid curiosity. At the peak of it, sometimes I would look at the top three DMs, and I was like, oh my God. They are so scary. Just caustic, nasty stuff. Im usually a very chill dude. Im diplomatic. Sometimes, Im chill to a fault. I had never been under so much scrutiny, and it was scary. I think it broke me. Alright, you guys on the internet. You broke me. I hope youre happy. But Im back. Did you consider quitting Vanderpump Rules? I remember one moment in particular when I just felt like I was drowning in negativity. I felt like [Schwartz & Sandys] had been severely compromised. The future of the bar was questionable at best; I had sunk so much money in there, and I felt so bleak and despondent. There might have been a few hopeless moments, even though it might have just been a performative thing, where I was like, I think Im good. I think Im ready to step away and pursue something new. I cant deal with this anymore. But I would wake up the next day and be like, wait, I love this. I love my Bravo family. I love the people that I get to work with. These are my friends, and these are my family. I dont think of us as just a cast. I freaking love these people. Till death do us part. You recently appeared on Nick Vialls podcast, The Viall Files, with Tom Sandoval. What did you think of peoples reaction to the podcast? Some people were really upset with your friend. People were pretty nice to me, actually. They were very positive. Apparently, I held [Sandoval] accountable, but I was also supportive. I didnt realize it until afterward, but he was up all night, and he was on a bit of a bender. You never know when grief is going to strike, but for whatever reason, it just hit him that night. He was in such a manic whirlwind for so long. I dont know if he ever had a proper moment to really mourn the loss of his childhood best friend, Ali. Its not excusing him for showing up late and half-buzzed, half-baked, or whatever it was, but in hindsight, I kind of feel bad because afterward, I really leaned into him. I was like, dude, you fucking embarrassed me. I was upset, but he broke it down for me and told me why, and then I felt like I couldnt stay mad at someone because its such a relatable thing. Grieving someone, a loved one youve lost, and maybe hitting the bottle is something Im sure weve all done at some point. Youre regularly in situations where youre forced to defend Sandoval or explain things on his behalf. How do you deal with that? I lowkey had a mini identity crisis at the peak [Scandoval]. My life had become so mired in someone elses life. It was a trip. It was a mind F. I just have to remind people, Im not Tom Sandovals sidekick, Im not just Katies ex husband. Im Tom Schwartz. I love those people, but theres so much more to me than that. One thing that really sucked was having to constantly answer and report on someone elses life, someone elses affair, that was just not mine. It was hard. My stories would change, and I would flip-flop depending on the day, but it was just hard for me. It caused me to have some sort of brain damage, honestly. Should I be on Sandovals payroll? Should I be getting 10%? I didnt want to make it a point to be out there defending, campaigning, or advocating for Team Sandoval, but I just wanted to remind people that hes not a monster and not to retroactively tear apart the mans entire life and everything hes ever done. I mean, the guy was on suicide watch at one point. It was way overboard. The Internet took it way overboard on Tom Sandoval, in my opinion. Have you been watching this season so far? Does it feel different to you compared to past seasons? Yeah. Theres a lot of gravitas. Its high stakes, and some people were really hurt. In the history of our group dynamic, this is probably the biggest chasm ever. It kind of tore apart our group dynamic, but I like to think that were slowly rebuilding. I think Im in a pretty good place with everybody, and I think there are some really special episodes coming up. The trip to Lake Tahoe is borderline spiritual to me. I think it was a success. I think people just stopped not being upset with Tom but stopped vilifying him and dehumanizing him. Hes not a worm with a mustache. What do you think the future of the show looks like? Can you see everyone wanting to continue filming together? Yeah, definitely. I really like mine and Katies dynamic this year. Youll see, we have some fun, playful competition. Im really enjoying witnessing it in real time but also watching it back and seeing people navigate life after being in long-term relationships and having some pretty horrific breakups, Tom and Ariana, Lala and Randall, who else am I missing? Do we have any relationships that have survived our ten years of Vanderpump? Im also excited to revitalize our business and give it another shot at life because we were on life support. And Im excited for [Maloney and Madixs sandwich shop] Something About Her to finally open. Will we see you film in Schwartz and Sandys this season? Youll hear us allude to it, but we actually didnt film there this season for a variety of reasons. At one point, we were terrified about the future of the business. It just became a complete spectacle. It felt like the right decision to suspend filming there because we were on the ropes and we were having an existential crisis. If the show continues on, we will be filming there for sure. And Im really excited for Something About Her to open, and Tom Tom is still thriving. I still feel like theres so much more to this group. After your experience filming Foxs Stars on Mars last summer, would you ever want to do other reality TV shows? That was a stellar moment, a bright spot in an otherwise kind of dark and twisted year. Yes, without a doubt, unequivocally yes. I like The Traitors and Im manifesting this: a little guest appearance or a cameo on Top Chef. Best of Rolling Stone In this week's PEOPLE cover story, the former TV host's family open up about her struggles with drinking over the past two and a half years Manny Carabel/Getty Wendy Williams The curtain is being lifted on a dark period in Wendy Williams' life. In the two and a half years since she made what would be her last appearance on The Wendy Williams Show in July 2021, the star, 59, privately struggled with alcohol addiction and with several health issues including Graves disease, an autoimmune disorder that can cause bulging eyes, and lymphedema, a condition that causes swelling in her feet. "There were points during the past year when everyone in this family wondered whether that call [that she was dead] was going to come in the middle of the night," Wendy's sister, Wanda, 65, tells PEOPLE exclusively in this week's cover story. "Everybody in this family sat on pins and needles every single night with their cell phones right next to the bed." PEOPLE's Wendy Williams cover A new Lifetime documentary, Where Is Wendy Williams?, premiering Feb. 24, captures Williams in the throes of her struggles. When the documentary crew began filming in August 2022, it set out to follow Williams comeback after her show was canceled in June 2022 and as she prepared to launch a new podcast. It quickly evolved into something entirely different. "She was already battling so much physically, and then it became clear that there were mental and addiction issues she was also battling," says executive producer Mark Ford. "But all through it, she was adamant that she wanted to tell this story. We asked ourselves almost every day, Is this helping Wendy or is this hurting her? And in the end we felt like it was helping her." Throughout the film, Williams' manager and jeweler Will Selby works hard to keep her away from liquor, but he notes that he can't be with her in her New York City apartment "24/7." At one point, he finds a mostly empty bottle of vodka in her home and asks Williams if she had a liquor lunch, to which she replies, "F you." "I think people got into something and didn't realize how big and serious it was," says Williams' niece and Wanda's daughter Alex, 33. Related: Where Is Wendy Williams? Shocking Doc Reveals Star's Struggles with Money Woes, Health Issues and Alcohol During Williams' visits to her family in Florida, Wanda says they kept a strict "anti-alcohol" policy, so she "started to push everybody away," including her son, Kevin Hunter Jr., 23. "Wendy is right when she says, 'Wanda doesn't want me to drink,'" Wanda says. "It wasn't so much, 'I don't want you to drink because drinking is bad,' but drinking for you is not good." For a long time, sources say Williams struggled with drinking behind the scenes of The Wendy Williams Show, which she first started hosting in 2008. She would be drunk on air, says a show source. "Slowly, we started being like, Whats going on with her?" In 2017, she fainted in a Statue of Liberty costume during her Halloween episode, later attributing it to her Graves disease in a 2018 interview with PEOPLE. That was the first sign something was really wrong, says Alex now. Fox Wendy Williams fainting on TV in 2017 The shows co-executive producer Suzanne Bass also saw Williams issues. I knew she was struggling. How could I not? says Bass, whose husband was the stage manager. "As her situation grew worse, she pushed us away. In March 2019, Williams revealed on the show that shed been living in a sober house, noting her past problems with cocaine during her rise to fame as a radio shock jock in the 90s. Related: Wendy Williams Was 'Never Seriously Considered' to Be Asked Back for Talk Show's Last Episode: Expose A month later she filed for divorce from husband Kevin Hunter, 52, after 21 years of marriage, when it was revealed that hed had a baby with another woman. (Hunter declined to comment for this story.) [Wendy's mom] Shirley, may she rest in peace, would always remind me that your aunt would trade everything that she has every dime, every car, every wig to be able to have a strong loving household and a loving husband," Alex says. "That was ripped from her right after her son had to go off to college [in 2018]. Emotionally, it was just a lot. It was too much for her world." Williams' brother, Tommy, agrees: It put her back into that dark space." BACKGRID Wendy Williams being pushed in a wheelchair in 2021 When the COVID shutdown began in March 2020, Williams was isolated in her luxury apartment. In May 2020, her show deejay DJ Boof says he found her unresponsive at home, and she was rushed to the hospital, where she needed several blood transfusions. That November Williams mom, Shirley, died. "When our mother passed, who was her greatest advocate and strongest support system out of anybody in this family, she never grieved, says Wanda. In May 2022, an independent legal guardian was appointed to oversee Williams' finances and health. Her family members say they dont know why the court made the decision, and the court papers have been sealed. A month after the guardian was appointed in 2022, Williams was caught on camera passed out at a Louis Vuitton store, drunk. She entered a wellness facility for two months starting in September 2022, but the next March, after she took a trip to L.A., Selby says in the documentary that she was disheveled and adamant about drinking. Related: Wendy Williams Teases Return to the Spotlight in New Podcast Promo: 'I'll Be Back, Trust Me' The documentary crew stopped filming Williams in April 2023, after they found her in her apartment with her eyes rolled back into her head. They worked with Selby to urge her legal guardian to get Williams help. That month she entered a facility to treat "cognitive issues," as Selby says in the documentary. Her son reveals in the film that doctors have connected these issues to alcohol use. "The guardian did come around and was responsive to our pleas... to get her into a safer place," Ford says. T.JACKSON / BACKGRID Wendy Williams in March 2023 Williams remains in the facility to this day, and her family says the guardian is the only person who has unfettered access to her. Her family says they dont know where she is and cannot call her themselves, but she can call them. Right now, the power over when Williams can leave the facility, if at all, remains in her guardians hands. "All I want to know is that my sister is going to live and that she's going to be healthy," Wanda says. For more on Wendy Williams, pick up the latest issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands everywhere Friday, or subscribe here. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Amy and Johnny have not yet been sexually intimate with each other because Amy is not on birth control and Johnny is fearful that it would result in an unplanned pregnancy Adam Rose/Netflix (2) Love Is Blind's Amy and Johnny Warning: This story contains spoilers from episodes 7-9 of Love Is Blind season 6. Love Is Blind's Johnny McIntyre hasn't shied away from the important conversations with fiancee Amy Cortes, but he also wants to set the record straight. In the latest batch of episodes to hit Netflix, Johnny and Amy returned from their Dominican Republic couple's getaway and moved in together as they adjust to life as an engaged couple in Charlotte, North Carolina. Eventually, it was revealed that Amy and Johnny, both 28, had not yet been sexually intimate with each other because Amy is not on birth control and Johnny was fearful that it would result in an unplanned pregnancy. Though the topic has been discussed across several episodes now, Johnny tells PEOPLE that feels like it was "kind of spun the wrong way." "I do want to have kids, but I want to, number one, be able to actually experience life with Amy and grow and really evolve with her as a couple before we welcome kids into the mix," he explains. "Let's do that, and then a couple of years later, then let's welcome kids into it. Because that way, we have a strong foundation." "When things come up with kids, because I hear for a lot of parents too, the first couple of years are rough. You're sleep-deprived, you're not really your normal self you were way back when," he continues. "So I wanted to know Amy for herself first and actually to know her before we were welcome kids into the mix." Courtesy of Netflix Johnny and Amy on 'Love Is Blind' season 6 Related: Love Is Blind's Clay Says Jeramey's 'Bean Dip' Joke to AD 'Didn't Throw Me Off' but He 'Wasn't Surprised' (Exclusive) During episode 7, Jimmy spoke to costar Laura Dadisman about his relationship and revealed he and Amy were "taking it slow" because "she's not on birth control." He added, "It makes you really think about things and you wanna have more conversations." In the following episode, Amy and Johnny did just that touching base about their goals of wanting to be parents but only when they were "financially secure" and ready. As Amy noted that she didn't want kids for "another five years," she also emphasized that they needed to figure out a plan to get over this hurdle in their relationship and ideally before the wedding. Johnny was in full agreement as he explained the women he previously dated were "almost always on birth control" so he never had to think twice about it. The two then acknowledged that the issue was definitely a "roadblock" in their relationship and began to consider their options, including Amy going on birth control or Johnny undergoing a vasectomy. "I don't know if I wanna get on birth control yet," Amy said. "I feel like Johnny's fear about the whole kids thing is our biggest roadblock to intimacy.... I don't think we're gonna wait until marriage. But using protection, that's not enough for him." "I've never been on birth control, I've had talks with my gynecologist. It's ideal to be on birth control because I have to constantly get infusions," Amy continued in a confessional. "I'm anemic, it would be ideal to do that but I like how regular everything is with my system. I don't want to alter anything and so, it is a lot as a woman to make these decisions." Johnny then added, "We need to figure something out before we take this next step ... this could be a make-or-break between us [and] I don't want it to be." Courtesy of Netflix Amy and Johnny on 'Love Is Blind' season 6 Related: Love Is Blind's AD Had a 'Few Conversations' with Matthew After His Shocking Move in the Pods (Exclusive) Whether the issue actually does become a defining moment has yet to be seen. While the two worked through the intimacy struggle, their relationship seemed to flourish in other areas, including Amy meeting Johnny's family and hitting it off with his sisters. However, Johnny has yet to meet Amy's father, and she has been vocal about not being able to marry him if her dad doesn't approve of their relationship. In a teaser for the next episode drop, Jimmy asks Amy's father, "May I have your blessing to marry your daughter?" He then responds, "For me, it is kinda overwhelming." A tense moment between the three follows as Amy breaks down in tears and Jimmy looks on in a nervous manner. 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. Episodes 19 of Love Is Blind season 6 are now streaming on Netflix, with episodes 10-11 set to drop next Wednesday, Feb. 28. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. With plenty of companies offering employees opportunities for remote work, a hybrid lifestyle feels more within reach than ever before. But with so many options available for where you can work remotely as a digital nomad (especially on the heels of Japans digital nomad visa and South Africas digital nomad visa announcements), the question is less Can I do it? and more Where to do it? The British business solutions company Brother set out to answer this question in a recent report, where the brand identified the best and worst locations in Europe to work remotely based on factors like Wi-Fi speed, cost of living, and safety. (The company did not limit its selections to only feature countries offering digital nomad visas as a metric for their selections, and excluded several countries as part of its data collection.) Credit: Marcin Krzyzak / Shutterstock Credit: Marcin Krzyzak / Shutterstock Luxembourg took first place with a score of 68.04 out of 100 on Brothers report. The small European country sits right between Belgium, France, and Germany, so planning excursions on your off days should be a breeze. The city also ranked high in terms of health care and overall quality of life. Second place went to Olomouc, a city in the Czech Republic. One big selling point? Its cost of living. As Brother found in its report, the average one-bedroom apartment in Olomouc will cost you just $440 in U.S. dollars. Credit: Seqoya / Shutterstock Credit: Seqoya / Shutterstock If youve ever dreamed of traveling to the Netherlands, consider Rotterdam as a cost-effective alternative to Amsterdam especially if youre looking to live there in the longer term. The city placed third on Brothers list and boasted high quality of life and safety scores, as well as a 7.2 out of 10 happiness rating. Here are the remaining top 10 best European cities for remote working, according to Brother. 4. Aalborg, Denmark 5. Reykjavik, Iceland 6. Utrecht, Netherlands 7. Arhus, Denmark 8. Eindhoven, Netherlands 9. Plzen, Czech Republic 10. Oradea, Romania Brother named Athens, Greece; Thessaloniki, Greece; and Belgrade, Serbia, as the first, second, and third worst destinations for remote workers, respectively, selected (in large part) for low safety index scores. If youre looking for just happiness while living and working abroad, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands took top honors for cities where remote workers will find themselves the happiest. Its important to know as much about the city youre moving to before you get there, so you can read Brothers full report here and decide for yourself. Modern Malaysian food is a celebration of diversity, drawing influence from Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, and Indian culinary cultures. Each of these food traditions brings distinct flavors and cooking techniques, resulting in an array of dishes that reflect Malaysia's multicultural heritage. Malaysian dishes are characterized by their rich and abundant use of aromatic spices and herbs, such as lemongrass, galangal, ginger, and turmeric. Whether you're exploring the culinary offerings of Malaysia's bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur or the quaint lanes of the country's northeastern state of Penang, every bite is an adventure that is waiting to be savored. One way to do this is to feast on classics such as laksa, a spicy and tangy noodle soup infused with flavors of lemongrass, galangal, and shrimp paste. Equally tempting is Malaysia's iconic char kway teow that is often prepared in smoking woks by street vendors. Whatever you choose, rest assured that you won't be disappointed. Gearing up for a trip to Malaysia or a dining experience at a Malaysian restaurant? Here's our guide to some of the most memorable Malaysian dishes you need to try at least once. Read more: 16 Little-Known Facts About Salt Nasi Lemak Nasi lemak on banana leaf - SurianiSuzie/Shutterstock Typically enjoyed for breakfast in Malaysia, the star ingredient of nasi lemak is rice that's cooked in coconut milk, a culinary preparation that imbues it with a bold flavor and creamy texture. The ubiquitous dish, which can be as readily found at Malaysian roadside stalls as upscale hotels, also frequently comes with various side dishes. These traditionally include fried anchovies, a hard-boiled egg, toasted peanuts, and fresh cucumber slices. Nasi lemak is usually accompanied by a condiment like sambal, a spicy chili paste. Like numerous other culinary classics, nasi lemak has evolved over the years, and today is frequently served with proteins such as beef, chicken, and seafood. These days, the rice is also frequently cooked with additional ingredients, including lemongrass, shallots, ginger, and garlic. While the exact origins of nasi lemak are unknown, it's believed that the dish has its roots in the agricultural practices of the region, where rice and coconut trees were prevalent. Once cooked, the rice was combined with sides made from other readily available ingredients such as eggs, herbs, and small fish. One of the earliest records of the dish dates back to 1909 when it was mentioned in the writings of a British colonial administrator, Richard Olaf Winstedt. Nasi Kerabu Nasi kerabu on banana leaf - Natalia Hanin/Shutterstock Nasi kerabu is well-known for its striking blue rice, which gets its vibrant hue from the butterfly pea flower. These days, blue dye is also often used to color the dish. The rice is also frequently cooked with a range of ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass, and tossed with crispy coconut shavings. Nasi kerabu is served with a variety of side dishes, such as shrimp crackers, fried chicken, and pickled vegetables. One of the more popular sides is flaked grilled fish fried with ginger, shallots, and grated coconut. Another side that's frequently served with nasi kerabu is a fragrant herb salad made with freshly shredded veggies, cabbage, long beans, bean sprouts, and betel leaf. Nasi kerabu typically comes with two condiments: a shrimp paste known as belacan and budu, a mixture of coconut fish flakes and fermented fish sauce. The story of nasi kerabu likely began in Malaysia's northeastern state of Kelantan in the 15th century. The colorful dish is a hallmark of the Kelantanese Peranakan cuisine, which combines Malay, Thai, and Chinese flavors. At the time, Chinese and Thai people settled in the area, bringing with them their culinary traditions and ingredients, which then melded with the local Malay culinary practices. Roti Canai Roti canai with sauces - Bored Photography/Shutterstock Roti canai is a Malaysian flatbread renowned for its flaky texture. The dish's unique structure is the result of an intricate process of folding the dough with a fat like butter or oil. Known as roti prata in Singapore, this circular bread is usually prepared with ghee or clarified butter. Roti canai is typically served with curry, and while any curry will do, the dish is often accompanied by dal or lentil curry. While roti canai is a firm favorite among Malaysians, the dish is said to have originated in Southern India, where many Malaysian Indians have ancestral ties. The term "roti" in Malay means bread. However, the word "canai" might be a reference to the city of Chennai in Southeastern India. Then again, canai also means to roll or knead in Malay, indicating that the bread's name could describe its preparation method. This theory gains credence given the difficulty of finding roti canai in India. Laksa Laksa in a bowl - Jane Vershinin/Shutterstock Just like Vietnamese pho and Thai tom yum, Malaysian laksa has gained popularity around the globe, and for a great reason. The creamy soup is known for its delicious fusion of flavors, including spicy, sour, and savory. Made with a coconut-infused broth and noodles, laksa has many regional variations across Malaysia, which makes it appealing to a range of palates. Once called the "breakfast of gods" by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain on his Instagram, sarawak laksa is infused with lemongrass, galangal, chilies, garlic, lime juice, and sambal belacan, a spicy shrimp paste. Another popular laksa variety comes from Penang. Known as asam laksa, it is made with ginger, tamarind, and mackerel. It's also commonly garnished with flavorful fruit and herbs, including pineapple, cucumber, and mint. The most ubiquitous laksa found in Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, is curry laksa. Just as its name suggests, the hearty dish is made with curry paste, as well as laksa leaf, prawns, chicken, puffy tofu, and fish balls. Hainanese Chicken Rice Hainanese Chicken rice - Bonchan/Getty Images Although Hainanese refers to Hainan, a province in China, many consider Hainanese chicken rice to be a Malaysian specialty. Its origins can indeed be traced back to Hainan, where a similar dish known as Wenchang chicken exists, but it was Hainanese immigrants who invented the version we know today. While both Singapore and Malaysia have laid claim to Hainanese Chicken rice, the true story is anybody's guess. The culinary feud between the two countries reached a striking moment in 2009 when Malaysia's tourism minister, Ng Yen Yen, called Hainanese chicken rice "uniquely Malaysian" and accused Singapore of appropriating the dish (via South China Morning Post). Living up to its straightforward name, Hainanese chicken rice is fundamentally made of chicken and rice. The preparation of the dish starts with poaching the chicken in chicken stock. Once cooked, the chicken is submerged in ice water, a step that both stops the cooking process and creates a delicate jelly-like layer beneath the poultry's skin. Meanwhile, the rice is cooked in a broth prepared with chicken stock, sauteed garlic, and pandan leaves. Chicken oil rendered from chicken fat and skin is also sometimes added to the concoction to enhance its flavor. Char Kway Teow Char kway teow - Facebook / Zenhouse A popular specialty found on most street corners of Malaysia, char kway teow is a noodle dish made with wide, flat rice noodles. The stir-fried dish is commonly prepared with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chili, as well as a blend of dark and light soy sauce. The ingredients are tossed around in a wok on high heat, which imparts the dish with a distinct smoky flavor and aroma, often referred to in Cantonese as wok hei or the breath of the wok. Char kway teow is also a beloved staple in Singapore, leading to frequent debates between the two nations over the dish's origins. Regardless of the true story, the prevailing opinion is that char kway teow was invented by Teochew migrants from China in the Malaysian state of Penang. It was also the Hokkien and Teochew migrants who introduced flat noodles and distinctive wok frying methods to the Southeast Asian region both of which play a crucial role in this dish. Cendol A bowl of cendol - Rozita Turut/Getty Images Cendol is hard to miss. The striking Malaysian dessert is known for its distinctive green jelly noodles, which are made from rice flour and pandan leaves. These noodles are served in a bowl of shaved ice and drizzled with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. This refreshing and creamy treat is sometimes also garnished with additional ingredients such as red beans, durian, and corn. While cendol is a beloved Malaysian dish, its origins are uncertain, with several Southeast Asian countries claiming it as their own. It's most likely that the dessert was first developed in Indonesia. Historical records suggest that versions of cendol might have already existed during the reign of the Kediri kingdom in 12th-century Java, evolving with the introduction of new ingredients. The dessert is said to have been transplanted to Malaysia by Javanese merchants sometime in the 19th century. Meanwhile, British colonial traders supplied the country with ice, making it possible for cendol to be served in its now-famous icy form. Rendang Beef rendang - abamjiwa al-hadi/Shutterstock If any food is worth fighting over, it's rendang. Malaysia and Indonesia have a long-standing rivalry over this savory beef dish, with each claiming it as their culinary masterpiece. While the dish is both popular and ubiquitous across the Malay Peninsula, many agree that its origins trace back to the Minangkabau people of Western Sumatra in Indonesia. Nevertheless, rendang remains a Malaysian staple that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people across the country. So, what's all the fuss about? Essentially rendang is a beef curry that's prepared by simmering chunks of meat in an aromatic sauce made from a concoction of coconut milk and spices. These commonly include galangal, lemongrass, ginger, shallots, makrut lime leaves, turmeric, and chili. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and thickens the sauce to a velvety consistency. While rendang is typically made with beef, it's sometimes also prepared with chicken or mutton. Bak Kut Teh Bak kut teh - mikonsx/Shutterstock Found at both restaurants and street stalls, bak kut teh is a filling pork soup renowned for its fragrant broth and bold flavor. The dish usually comes with different pig parts, including ribs, bones, and belly, which are simmered in a concoction of herbs and spices. Among these are star anise, angelica root, and processed rehmannia root. Bak kut teh comes in three different types: the herby Cantonese style, fragrant Hokkien style, and peppery Teochew style. The soup is usually served with tea "teh" means tea in Malay. Even though Malaysia and Singapore each argue that they are the birthplace of bak kut teh, there's no conclusive evidence of the dish's origins. Nevertheless, it's most likely that the dish was transported by Chinese immigrants from the Fujian province, establishing roots in both countries. According to Malaysia's version of the story, bak kut teh was invented in the city of Klang by Hokkien migrants from Fujian in the 19th century. Since many of them worked at the city's port as laborers, they used the soup to boost their energy levels and minimize the risk of health issues such as arthritis. Mee Goreng Mamak Mee goreng mamak - Facebook / Gopal's Corner Celebrated within the Indian Muslim or Mamak community in Malaysia, mee goreng mamak is a stir-fried noodle dish that perfectly captures the multicultural nature of the country's cuisine. The dish is typically served at roadside stalls and mamak restaurants that are open late into the night or even 24/7. While mamak eateries don't serve alcohol, they are famous for their teh tarik, a tea drink with condensed milk that's poured between two containers until it becomes smooth and frothy. Mee goreng mamak is made with fresh yellow noodles, as well as ingredients such as bean sprouts, boiled potatoes, fried tofu, garlic, and red chilies. The addition of eggs, either scrambled into the noodles or served sunny side up on top, complements the dish's spicy and savory flavor. While the ingredients for the sauce vary between recipes, the noodle dressing is usually composed of soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, ketchup, and granulated sugar. The sauce sometimes also includes Malaysian curry powder and sambal chili paste for an extra kick. Ayam Percik Ayam percik - AS Foodstudio/Shutterstock Not just another grilled chicken dish, ayam percik abounds with a rich flavor and aroma that distinguishes it from other poultry dishes. The most important part of preparing ayam percik is the marinade, which combines a plethora of ingredients that imbue the chicken with its signature taste. These typically include coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, tamarind paste, ginger, and chilies. The marinade gives the chicken a deep flavor profile that's simultaneously spicy, sweet, sour, and umami. Ayam percik is traditionally roasted over coals, a practice that imbues it with delicious smoky notes. Ayam percik is believed to have originated in the northeastern Malaysian state of Kelantan. The dish derives its name from its preparation method. While the word "ayam" means chicken in Malay, the term "percik" translates to splatter, a reference to the marinade that's continuously splashed on the chicken as it grills. Over time, the satisfying dish has evolved from a regional specialty into a national favorite. Today, ayam percik is often served alongside rice or as a side to other Malaysian specialties such as nasi lemak and nasi kerabu. Ais Kacang Ais kacang - EQRoy/Shutterstock Ais kacang is a captivating Malaysian dessert that stands out for its striking combination of flavors, textures, and colors. The sweet treat is made with a base of shaved ice, which is generously topped with an array of ingredients, such as red bean paste, grass jelly, and sweet corn. Finally, the dessert is drizzled with condensed milk, as well as a combination of sweet syrups such as palm sugar syrup and rose syrup. Also called ABC (air batu campur), the modern version of ais kacang features regional variations. For instance, in Penang, ais kacang usually comes adorned with durian, while in Sabah and Sarawak, the dish is commonly accompanied by mango and sago pearls. The roots of ais kacang can be traced back to the Peranakan people of Malacca, who used to enjoy a simple dessert made with shaved ice and red bean paste. Not surprisingly, the word "ais" translates to ice in Malay, while the term "kacang," refers to beans. The refreshing dish evolved, and today is popular across Southeast Asia, particularly in Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, where it goes by a variety of different names. Kuih Different types of kuih - Bored Photography/Shutterstock Rather than representing one dish, kuih encompasses a variety of traditional Malaysian snacks, which are often sweet, but can also be savory. These treats are deeply rooted in the gastronomic heritage of Malaysia, encapsulating the culinary traditions of the country's different ethnic groups. While kuih-style cakes also exist in other Southeast Asia countries, Malaysian kuih find their roots in the Peranakan or Nyonya culture of early Chinese settlers who migrated to Malaysia during the era of the Malay Sultanates in the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, the colorful bite-sized snacks can be enjoyed at both bustling street markets and in upscale dining establishments. One of the most iconic Malaysian kuih is the ang ku kuih, which features a chewy orange exterior and a mung bean paste filling. Then there's the vibrantly green kuih bakar with a custardy interior and a slightly crispy, caramelized top. Another notable kuih is kuih kacang merah, a red-hued cake made with red beans, pandan, and coconut milk. Penang Hokkien Mee Penang hokkien mee - mikonsx/Shutterstock The name Penang Hokkien mee embodies tthis dish's rich heritage. The spicy noodle soup traces its roots back to the Malaysian state of Penang, where a vibrant fusion of Hokkien and Malay culinary influences converged to create this beloved dish. Referred to as simply Hokkien mee in Penang, an early version of the dish probably arrived in the province with Hokkien migrants from the Fujian province of China. Penang Hokkien mee combines a rich and fragrant broth with ingredients such as prawns, hard-boiled eggs, and pork. More specifically, the broth is made by simmering prawn heads and shells, pork, chicken stock bones, and spicy sambal. While Penang Hokkien mee is ubiquitous in its state of origin, Kuala Lumpur has its own version of the dish, made with stir-fried noodles, dark soy sauce, seafood, lard, and pork liver. Singapore also has its own take on Hokkien mee, made with pork stock, pork belly slices, eggs, and seafood. Read the original article on Mashed. On January 23, Seattle-based adventurer and mountaineer Andrew Hughes established a new SUP world record paddling on the highest elevation flatwater lake recorded on Tres Cruces Norte in Chile. He also tagged the summit while he was there, at 19,780 feet. Though technically on a desert plateau just West of the Andes mountains, Tres Cruces Norte has a sizable alpine lake. It sits between two notable peaks, Cruces Centro and Cruces Sur the sixth-highest mountain in the Andes, and easily the most trafficked of them. The pond at Tres Cruces Norte (officially 19,364 feet) is in Nevado Tres Cruces National Park. Located inside a volcanic crater, its easily one of the highest bodies of water on Earth. Hughes set his paddleboarding sights on it several years ago and embarked on the objective in late January 2023. GearJunkie spoke to the record-setter himself to chat about the logistics of his historical climb, summit, and SUP record. Setting the Highest Elevation SUP Record: Tres Cruces Norte When it comes to paddling, theres really no shortage of destinations. Long-time canoe and kayak enthusiasts will recognize names of places and rivers, like the Green River, the Colorado, the Grand Canyon, Brokeback and New River Gorges, the Boundary Waters the list goes on. But when it comes to alpine lakes, not rivers or tried-and-true whitewater destinations or even large flatwater basins, the amount of potential really skyrockets. You can paddle just about anywhere on a SUP. With paddleboards on the market nowadays weighing as little as 18-20 pounds, and being more packable than ever, most bodies of water are fair game as long as its accessible by foot and trail to get you and your SUP there. At 19,780 feet above sea level, Tres Cruces Norte in Atacama, Chile, sits higher up than Mount Whitney, all of Colorados 14ers, Mount Fuji (the tallest mountain in Japan), and Pico de Orizaba (the tallest mountain in Mexico), Mount Logan (tallest mountain in Canada and second tallest in North America), and Mount Kenya. Its just shy of the elevation of Aconcagua, for context. And, you can paddle on it. Meet Record-Setter Andrew Hughes Andrew grew up on a farm outside Seattle, and living on the Olympic Peninsula, he grew up kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Despite the formative experiences he had on the water in his early years, he ventured down the climbing and mountaineering path and hasnt looked back until now. I always feel like the experiences we have when were younger influence our relationships with the mountains later, Hughes said when he spoke with GearJunkie. Hughes has summited all of the Seven Summits, the Seven Volcanic Summits, holds a Guinness World Record on Mt. Everest, and has climbed countless other notable peaks, including Denali, Aconcagua, Mt. Rainier, Elbrus, Kilimanjaro, and more. FKT and records are just entry points into deepening my relationships with the mountains, really just an excuse to explore new places and expand my experiences, Hughes explained when asked what motivated him to chase records. Then, about 4 or 5 years ago, a couple of friends got Hughes into paddleboarding. I realized it was just another way to experience whats around me, not just mountains, said Hughes. Andrew Hughes Logistics, Details, and Gear Having summited dozens of peaks abroad, Andrew Hughes is no stranger to complicated trip planning and high-alpine logistics. Still, before a few years ago, he had never set foot on a SUP. So, chasing this record also meant learning the ropes when it came to SUP-specific gear. The reason why I reached out to ISLE, in the beginning, was because it has all these initiatives, like 1% for the Planet, and lots of outreach as well, Hughes told GearJunkie. Thats how he decided on the ISLE Switch. The board weighs roughly 19 pounds; it comes with a three-piece paddle, lots of tie-downs, a carry pack, a manual pump, and a whole lot of modular accessories most of which Hughes would ditch for the record attempt. In addition to the board itself, Hughes used the ISLE Switch, pump, paddle, and pack, a minimalist Mustang Survival PFD belt, some neoprene boots, and ONeill neoprene gloves for the attempt. Everything in the gear realm was about weight, Hughes said. And then all the [additional] gear I had to the take to the summit that was critical, like my sleeping bag, layers just standard climbing gear. Asked about his choice of footwear, Hughes said he used a pair of SCARPA hiking boots. And then I lived off gels pretty much while doing the record, he added. Inspiration for the High-Alpine Paddle Hughes visited the exact same region in Chile while on a climbing trip in 2017. [The lake] is just this gorgeous body of water in the middle of the desert, he told us. I remember sitting there at the lake, wanting to come back. But he didnt look into the details until 2020, when he applied for the record, and was informed which bodies of water officially qualified. I wanted to SUP at this lake, he recounted. When I applied, there were certain bodies of water that were internationally recognized for high-altitude water records and some that werent. Most of them are in Tibet or the Andes. All the satellite imagery said the lake was at 5,915 m, but then Hughes arrived and saw that the water had evaporated you could see the lines receding. Officially, it measured in at 5,902 m (or 19,364 feet). Marrying Mountaineering With Paddleboarding So, why the heck carry a SUP on your back up a massive mountain? Well, for one, its easier nowadays than a decade ago. The boards are slimmer and lighter. Recent innovations in SUPs have just made it possible. As Hughes explained, This was almost a proof of concept for me: can you integrate paddleboarding with high-altitude mountaineering? I wanted to figure out how to integrate paddleboarding into trips I had never done SUP trips before. My question was: can this really work? Other people in the region were wondering why I wasnt trying to run up every peak and chase summits Hughes admitted. But I really wanted to experience the mountains in a new way. And these places are changing dramatically. So thinking about global warming how can we keep exploring? Start to Finish: Record Time for Tres Cruces Norte on a SUP When Hughes got to the salt lake, Laguna Verde, his basecamp in Atacama (literally, the dryest desert in the world), it was extremely windy. As far as the Andes go, it was still fairly accessible, but the conditions were not prime for paddleboarding. The official world record starts from the entry point on the water. Then once there, it has to be 10 minutes of continuous paddle on the body of water. All told, Hughes spent a little over 14 minutes on the lake, according to his Garmin. But that record doesnt begin to reflect the amount of time Hughes put into the attempt. I did tons of prep, and like 7,000 miles of travel to get down there. Then the airline lost my bag, so I didnt even have some of my gear. I spent a week doing acclimation hikes on lower peaks. Then I did some recon on what road Id thought Id need to take to get to [Norte]. We climbed and set up basecamp around 4,800 meters [15,748 feet]. Started our ascent, climbed, camped at an outcropping, then left the next morning for the summit and the lake, Hughes recounted the timeline. His record at the lake took maybe 45 minutes from start to finish. With the ascent and descent, maybe 36 hours total on the peak. The summit was beautiful, but the ascent with dust and dirt, it was scree-filled and awful. With the pack, the board, and all the gear in my pack, I was like a turtle going up that climb, Hughes said. So the best part was being on the water. Im no stranger to backcountry pack paddleboarding myself, having paddled dozens of alpine lakes above 10,000 feet. But have I ever considered chasing lake destinations double that? No way. At least, not here in North America. Now that I know that theres such thing as the highest elevation SUP attempt, I may just have to branch out, and see where my feet and my SUP can take me. Icy Kayaking: Aniol Serrasolses Styles 'World's Highest Glacier Waterfall Drop' Aniol Serrasolses went on a glacial expedition, not to go climbing, but instead to find waterfalls to fall off of in a kayak. Read more A man wearing a running vest and visor tops a hill with mountains in the background, Jack Kuenzle FKT Presidential Traverse FKT Smasher Jack Kuenzle Breaks His Own Record on Presidential Traverse Ultrarunner Jack Kuenzle is something of an FKT phenomenon. And with this latest accomplishment, he shows no signs of slowing down. Read more The post 19,000 Feet High on a SUP: How One Athlete Set a World Paddleboard Record appeared first on GearJunkie. These restaurants and food places recently have opened or are coming soon: Chancery Market, Food Hall & Bar, 1313 N. Market St., Wilmington; thechancerymarket.com/al-forno/ Al Forno is a new pizzeria that opened on Thursday, Feb. 15, in downtown Wilmington's food hall, Chancery Market. It takes over the space formerly occupied by Toscana Pizza e Panini. It's run by chef/owner Jhonathan Gomez, who also has been operating the market's Pokelicious stall since July 2023. Al Forno from Venezuelan-born proprietor Gomez is selling pizzas ranging from a traditional Margherita for $11.99 to $14.99 for a white pie with shrimp, chives and horseradish sauce. The menu also includes antipasti and pasta such as carbonara, alfredo, and spinach and ricotta. Gomez also is offering a plated dinner catering menu. Shoppes of Hockessin, 7288 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin; sunnyshockessin.com Sunnys Restaurant in Hockessin took over the site of a former Pat's Pizza. It is a BYOB and in addition to pizza and pastas also offers several Turkish dishes and a "Mediterranean" menu. A former Pat's Pizza in a strip shopping center that includes Quinn's Cafe and Doc's Meat Market has been revamped as Sunny's Pizza. The 50-seat restaurant, which opened in October, isn't just takeout and operates as BYOB, one of the few in the state. It offers mozzarella sticks, subs, chicken wings, club, and wrap sandwiches as well as a full array of pizzas, flatbreads and stromboli. Those looking for Italian dishes can get chicken parmigiana, baked ziti, fettuccine alfredo and lasagna. But what's even more interesting is the new "Mediterranean" menu. Dishes include pide, or "Turkish pizza," and the lahmacun, a flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, parsley and spices. Grill items include chicken, lamb and beef kebabs, served with rice and a side salad. The dessert menu also includes baklava. 9 N High St., West Chester, 610-365-3309, 9primewestchester.com. A new luxury steakhouse conceived by "Top Chef" alum Fabio Viviani opened Saturday, Feb. 10, in West Chester, with every trapping of red-meat luxury you can conceive of. Massive chandeliers? Check. White tablecloths? Check, A "speakeasy" hideaway that's perfectly legal and pretty well-advertised? Wet- and dry-aged steaks? Check, check and check. Wagyu? Scottish Angus? Filet mignon? Big ol' Tomahawks? You needn't even ask. Which is to say 9 Prime is indulgent, maybe even extravagant, and it is big: 400 seats and multiple stories big. Triple-decker chandelier big. And multiple millions of dollars big, courtesy of owner and local real estate impresario John O'Connell. Expect multiple visions of tiered seafood tower, tableside-smoked burrata (cold-smoked, we hope), chops from Duroc pork to Australian lamb, pan-roasted branzino and steak after steak after steak. Steak prices range from $49 for a wee 7-ounce filet mignon to $159 for a 40-ounce wet-aged Tomahawk that your doctor insists you split with someone else. Entrees and pastas hover mostly around the $30s. Burgers are $23, and involve a house blend of prime beef. It's a lot of muchness. But don't expect to hang out with Viviani too often. Viviani's Chicago-based restaurant group encompasses more than 50 properties, and the chef's concepts in Delaware include Chuck Lager House in Pike Creek and Colbie's Southern Kissed Chicken in Stanton. 914 Baltimore Pike, 484-842-1363, delpezmexicanpub.com. Soft opening Feb 2. Grand opening March 1. Popular riverfront Wilmington Mexican restaurant Del Pez quietly slipped across the border to Pennsylvania on Friday, Feb. 2, part of a growing empire for Hakuna Hospitality Group founder Javier Acuna. The Pennsylvania location for the Wilmington Riverfront Mexican restaurant softly opened its doors at its new Concordville Town Centre location in Pennsylvania. Del Pez's flagship restaurant first began serving customers shortly before Christmas 2016, a raucous and tequila-fueled mix of Baja, Tex-Mex and fusion fare that can range from octopus-ceviche guacamole to cola-braised short rib chimichangas to Peruvian style sushi rolls with aji amarillo chiles. The grand opening in Glen Mills is scheduled for Friday, March 1. But already, Del Pez's website promises a Newark location at fast-growing shopping center The Grove. (Del Pez previously operated a second restaurant in downtown Newark, but that closed several years ago.) Acuna's fast-expanding Hakuna Hospitality Group also includes Santa Fe Mexican Grill in Newark and Wilmington, La Taqueria and Savanna Salad Bowls & Sandwiches in Wilmington's Riverfront Market, and Mi Ranchito Mexican Market in Newark. More: These Mexican and Italian-American restaurants are opening near Delaware in 2024 1901 Lake Seymour Drive, Middletown, 302-698-8690; singaspizzas.com. At the end of January, Delaware got its first location of Singas Famous Pizza, a Greek-founded pizza franchise that opened its first location in Queens, New York, in 1967. CEO Gregory Tsanis began franchising in 2004 and rapidly expanded Singas to more than 30 franchise locations, mostly across the Mid-Atlantic. The menu at the new Middletown location, opened by first-time franchisees Jay and Harry Patel, offers the usual mix of pies, wings and chicken parm sandwiches found at pizzerias all over this region. But there are a few unique touches. In accordance with the chain's roots, both Greek pizzas and salads are on the menu. The former comes topped with spinach, Kalamata olives, tomato, feta cheese and Greek oregano. More surprising, perhaps, are Indian pizza flavors such as paneer and chicken tikka a trend that stems from pizza's newfound wild popularity on the subcontinent, which also has traveled to South Asian communities in the United States. That said, the most popular pizza topping at Singas is pepperoni, Jay Patel told Delaware Online/The News Journal when reached this month. The Patels are already planning more Singas locations in Dover and in the Newark area. 414 N. Union St., Wilmington; 631-660-4134. In a Little Italy hole in the wall once home to longtime favorite Borgia's Subs and Steaks, and then to likewise popular Christa-Bell's Caribbean Cuisine, Tornado Gyro & Grill opened at the beginning of February with a humble, economical menu of gyros, subs and steaks. Specialties include chicken gyro wraps and platters, Italian or turkey subs, cheesesteak subs with mushrooms and peppers, and Buffalo chicken cheesesteak smothered in hot sauce and cheese. The Cured Plate is a Prohibition-style cocktail speakeasy and charcuterie restaurant in Milford. 27 S. Walnut St., Milford, 302-242-0487; instagram.com/the.cured.plate. In downtown Milford in the former Josephine Kerr building, The Cured Plate claims to be Delaware's very first Prohibition-style charcuterie and cocktail speakeasy since opening officially on Tuesday, Feb. 13. We see no reason to dispute this claim. Owners Kenny and Liz Klingensmith have leaned hard into the concept with decor, outfits to match, painstakingly Prohibition-era cocktails, fine cured meats and swanky cheeses. Food items also include chicken and waffles, multiple takes on mac and cheese, the kind of olive or stuffed-date snacks you'd expect at a wine bar. Or, as the owners state, "Weve spent years researching, and taste testing to bring you the best of an era were clearly (our whole vibe) passionate about." Beer, wine and mocktails also are on hand. So is Gwyneth Paltrow's favorite "healthy" non-GMO soda, Olipop. At Stewart's Gourmet Candies & Snow Cones in downtown Milford, co-owner Melissa Stewart sells her own house-made line of freeze dried candies, as well as nostalgic treats, chocolates and snow cones. 27 S Walnut St., Milford, 302-222-6929; freezedriedcandiesmilford.com In the same building as the charcuterie speakeasy, you can visit what's almost certainly another Delaware first: a sweets shop devoted to freeze-dried candy and snow cones. Stewart's Gourmet Candies & Snow Cones, like a lot of new ideas, began out of the boredom of the pandemic. While scrolling through TikTok, co-owner Melissa Stewart discovered the strange magic of freeze-dried candy, sapped of all its moisture so it puffs up and becomes airy and crisp. Sticky things also become un-sticky, and therefore safe for those with braces or dental issues. "Chewy things like Skittles become light and crunchy," Stewart said. "Jolly Ranchers are big round balls, like biting into a snowball. Taffy dissolves on your tongue like cotton candy." At Stewart's since Jan. 29, she and her family serve up her house-made freeze-dried treats alongside gourmet chocolates, nostalgic candies, lots of modern sour sweets, and 32 flavors of snow cones. The shop is open from Wednesday to Sunday. As for Stewart's personal favorite freeze-dried treat? She favors the Jolly Ranchers, she said. It's also a customer favorite, alongside the Skittles. Contact Patricia Talorico at ptalorico@delawareonline.com or 302-324-2861 and follow her on X (Twitter) @pattytalorico Sign up for her Delaware Eats newsletter. Matthew Korfhage is a business and development reporter in the Delaware region covering all the things that touch land and money. A longtime food writer, he also tends to turn up with stories about tacos, oysters, and beer. Send tips and insults to mkorfhage@gannett.com. First State eats: We think these 7 Delaware restaurants could have made USA Today's Best Restaurants List Delaware dining: Harry's Savoy Grill is named as a USA TODAY Restaurant of the Year. What makes it special? This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Turkish pizza, high-end steak, gyros at new Delaware restaurants Aldi announces its new wine brand, California Heritage Collection, that will sell its products for under $5. Attention all Aldi shoppers, the grocery store has just announced a new item that will quench the thirst of those over the age of 21 and keep a few extra dollars in your wallet, too. Starting Feb. 16, Aldi introduced its new California Heritage Collection, a line of wine going for under $5 per bottle. The line, which will be available year-round, hopes to give shoppers the taste of the California vineyards without the steep price tag. All wines will be sold at the controlled price of $4.95. The California Heritage Collection brand will join Aldi's Specially Selected Wine Collection that was released in September 2023 at $7.99-14.99 per bottle, according to a news release by the company. The California Heritage Collection includes wine favorites, like Chardonnay, at a budget-friendly price for costumers. Aldi joins grocery store competitor Trader Joe's in offering wine at an ultra-discounted rate. Trader Joe's offers Charles Shaw wine (famously known as "Two Buck Chuck" for its former price tag) at $4.49 per 750 ml bottle. From Chardonnay and Moscato to Pinot Noir, wine lovers can expect to see a wide variety of options depending on the type of drink they're going for. See the full list of options below. Wine Wonders: Which type of wine is the healthiest to drink? Aldi California Heritage Collection wine selection Brut Sparkling Cabernet Sauvignon Chardonnay Extra Dry Sparkling Merlot Moscato Pink Moscato Pinot Noir Sweet Red This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Aldi wine collection priced under $5 per bottle now available There are different ways to play investment themes. For example, Dutch Bros (NYSE: BROS) is a coffee chain, which would give an investor direct exposure to the large and important restaurant sector. Realty Income (NYSE: O) is a landlord that focuses on owning the types of retail-focused assets that might house a Dutch Bros or some similar business. One of these two stocks is a growth story, the other an income story. Here's what you need to know to pick which one might be a buy for you. Dutch Bros: A side of growth with that coffee Dutch Bros only came public in late 2021. It is a very young company, but it is expanding at a rapid pace. To put a number on that, it ended the third quarter of 2023 with 794 locations, up from 641 in the year-ago period. That's a 25% increase in the coffee chain's store count in just 12 months. Image source: Getty Images. Over that same time frame, revenue rose 33%. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) soared 91%. Those are some big numbers, and they are exactly why an investor would want to own Dutch Bros. The potential for future growth remains strong, too. The company was profitable in the third quarter of 2023 despite spending heavily on growth. Wall Street warmly welcomed Dutch Bros when it held its initial public offering (IPO). But mercurial investors have since moved on to other trendy investing themes (like artificial intelligence) and Dutch Bros stock has fallen more than 60% from its post-IPO highs. For more aggressive growth investors with a long-term focus, it could be an attractive investment option. BROS Chart Realty Income's income-focused retail approach That said, rapid growth comes with risks, such as the chance of a sizable business misstep upending financial results. That's something that some investors won't want to worry about. And still others will prefer to see cash in their hand rather than let management reinvest every penny back into the company to grow it. You don't have to sidestep the retail arena, in which Dutch Bros participates, however. You can buy a real estate investment trust (REIT) like Realty Income that focuses on retail properties. Story continues Basically, Realty Income charges companies like Dutch Bros rent for the privilege of occupying its properties. But it has hundreds of tenants, so the success or failure of a single one (or a single location) doesn't have a huge effect on its overall results. In fact, if a tenant fails, Realty Income can just release the affected properties to someone else, assuming they are located well. You can view Realty Income as a safer way to get exposure to the retail sector. The proof of that is in the dividend, which has been increased annually for 29 consecutive years. You don't build a dividend track record like that by accident. But there's another wrinkle here: Realty Income's dividend yield is a very generous 5.9% or so. REITs are designed to pass income on to investors, so this isn't shocking. But it does make the stock a solid option for conservative, dividend-oriented investors. For reference, Dutch Bros doesn't pay a dividend, because all of its spare cash is being put back into the business. Not necessarily better, but vastly different Dutch Bros and Realty Income both offer investors exposure to the retail sector, but they do so in very different ways. Dutch Bros is like a laser beam, and your returns will depend heavily on how well the company executes its expansion plans. Growth investors will likely find that appealing. Realty Income is more like a light bulb. A laser is brighter, but a light bulb illuminates more areas more consistently. For conservative income investors, that will probably be the better option. Should you invest $1,000 in Dutch Bros right now? Before you buy stock in Dutch Bros, 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 Dutch Bros 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 20, 2024 Reuben Brewer has positions in Realty Income. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Realty Income. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Dutch Bros vs. Realty Income was originally published by The Motley Fool During Lent, alligators may change from reptiles to seafood, depending on where you live. Getty Images Looking for dishes you can still enjoy over Lent? May we suggest some tasty alligator recipes? Dont worry. Its been approved by some religious authorities. In case youre unfamiliar with the parameters of Lent, heres a quick breakdown: Lent is the 40-day period prior to Easter that many of the Christian faith use as a time of reflection and prayer. In 2024, Lent runs between February 14 to March 28. During that time, those who observe may also abstain from luxuries (this is why so many of your friends may be saying no thanks to chocolate right now) or personal habits, and also refrain from eating meat on Fridays. However, meat is somewhat of a tricky term. So, in 2010, one inquisitive Catholic in Louisiana wrote a letter to his local archbishop to ask for clarification. Specifically, if he could continue to enjoy alligator meat on Fridays. "Concerning the question if alligator is acceptable to eat during the Lenten season ... yes, the alligator is considered in the fish family," Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond wrote in his return letter. Aymond also noted his agreement with the letter sender's love for alligators, adding, I agree with you, God has created a magnificent creature that is important to the state of Louisiana and it is considered seafood. Related: Can Catholics Have Meat on St. Patrick's Day? It Depends Where They Live Other Catholic resources agree, including the Holy Spirit Parish, a Christian community located in the Almaden Valley of San Jose, California. Abstinence laws consider that meat comes only from animals such as chickens, cows, sheep, or pigs all of which live on land. Birds are also considered meat, the communitys website explained (pulling information from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website). The site further noted that salt and freshwater species of fish and shellfish, including amphibians and reptiles like alligators are permitted throughout Lent. But the community does note that these same shellfish (aka that all-you-can-eat lobster) can also be considered a luxury, which, as you read above, is a no-go. However, the Holy Spirit Parish's website noted that there are other loopholes to the meat rule, saying, Abstinence does not include meat juices and liquid foods made from meat. Thus, such foods as chicken broth, bouillon cubes, soups cooked or flavored with meat, meat gravies or sauces, as well as seasonings or condiments made from animal fat, are technically not forbidden. This leads to other technical questions, and of course, restrictions vary by region and diocese, so if you have any concerns, please check with your local church authorities. But as the Catholic News Agency explained, turtles, snakes, iguanas, and tortoises should be fair game too. And, according to Scientific America, in the 17th century, the Bishop of Quebec told everyone they could eat beaver meat on Fridays too, since they swim a lot in rivers (along with capybara for those living in South America). And snails fall under the same shellfish category as above, so heres an escargot recipe that will get you through the Lenten season. Apologies, as we dont have a beaver recipe on Food & Wine yet. For more Food & Wine news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Food & Wine. Bangladeshs garment industry is poised to capture market share from the United States, EU and Africa. And Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Faruque Hassan said that virtual marketplaces will be the key to that growth. Hassan addressed stakeholders in the industry after BGMEA released the results of a study exploring the development of a virtual commerce platform for the textile and apparel sector in Bangladesh. More from Sourcing Journal We have well realized the significance of the virtual marketplace during the lockdowns during Covid-19, Hassan said. According to BGMEAs study, Bangladesh has the potential to claim 0.2 percent of the U.S. market share, 0.1 percent of the EU an 0.75 percent of the African market share for textiles and apparel virtual markets by 2027, a gain of around $489 million. That would bring Bangladeshs garment industry to a combined total of approximately $308 billion. The report serves as an important reference for the industry in its journey forward to tap our potential in the virtual market, Hassan said. I hope the policymakers and entrepreneurs will make the most use of it to get to the next step. Hassan pointed to regulatory framework limitations in Bangladesh as roadblocks to capitalizing on the potential of virtual marketplaces. He said the country lacks global payment gateways and faces challenges such as financing issues, complex export processing and other policies that stand in the way of establishing a robust digital marketplace like those in other countries. The National Digital Commerce Policy of 2018 only governs the domestic market, and does not make any explicit policy framework addressing international e-commerce, Hassan said. That policy states that foreign e-commerce ventures are not allowed to operate in Bangladesh without forming joint ventures with local companies. And according to the policy, any company operating an e-commerce marketplace in Bangladesh cannot have a more than 49 percent stake controlled by foreign investors. Bangladesh is the second-largest apparel exporter after China, according to the World Trade Organization. Last year, the country exported $47.4 billion in total apparel, according to the Bangladesh Export Promotion Bureau. And the garment sector accounts for 83 percent of total export earnings in Bangladesh, according to the BGMEA. The nation recently has battled with China to be the top exporter of readymade garments to the United Kingdom, sending more than 178 million kilograms (392 million pounds) of garments to the UK during January-October 2023. Hassan said that additional studies on logistics, revenue and foreign exchange policies, branding and distribution may be necessary to establish a successful digital commerce platform. He added that for Bangladeshs garment industry to remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace, expanding the countrys presence in e-commerce is essential. If we want to maintain our position in the global competition ahead, we need to develop a comprehensive business model, he said. Heres the ski boot room, our impeccably coiffed hotelier proclaimed proudly. I looked around. To be precise, it was a car-park-cum-building site with no indication whether you were meant to rest your boots on the set of old car seats the vehicle they were once attached to nowhere in sight or the broken fridge. Spotting a hastily graffiti-ed figure on skis that indicated a side room (previously hidden by a whistling workman with a wheelbarrow), I was able to verify the truth of her statement. The car park in question sat underneath the Saint George Palace Aparthotel in Bansko, Bulgarias premier ski town. My boyfriend and I had come to Bansko for a low-cost, high-fun ski holiday. Price-wise, wed nailed it. Our six-night stay, including flights, private transfers, lift passes and ski hire, had cost just 725 each. Looking at similar packages in Austria and France, we would have been paying almost double. Its easy to see why, for the past decade, Bulgarian ski resorts have topped the rankings of the most affordable in Europe, according to Post Office Travel Moneys annual Ski Resort Report (although this year they were pipped by Bardonecchia in Italy). And while Bansko is around double the distance from London than the Alps, the travel time wasnt much different. Our three-hour flight to Sofia and two-hour transfer was only an hour longer than flying to Grenoble or Geneva with thousands of other Britons, and then following the traffic to one of the big French resorts. Sprawling appeal Wed booked a one-bedroom apartment, which was clean, surprisingly spacious and included a kitchen complete with oven and fridge, sprawling bedroom and even a walk-in wardrobe bigger than some of the bedrooms I remember from childhood holidays in Val Thorens. The complex also had its own spa, with a pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi a luxury we definitely could not have afforded elsewhere. Sure, the whole place seemed to be channelling the aesthetic of a 1970s Soviet sanatorium, but even that can have its own je ne sais quoi (if Brutalism is generally your kind of thing) The town centre was only a 20-minute walk away or 5 minutes on the hotels shuttle bus, which ran in the morning and afternoon so we were able to hit the slopes first thing. Most of the runs sit between 1,500m and 2,600m not quite as high as soaring French resorts in the giant Trois Vallees but on a par with many in Austria and Italy and snow cover in mid-January was good (supplemented by chugging snow cannons), with crisp mornings and bluebird afternoons. Over five days, we easily covered all of the resorts 16 slopes. There was one whizzy black run (usually three but the rest were closed) and eight reds some a little short. The wealth of long, cruisey blues meant overall it felt better suited to families and beginners than hard-core skiers. Instructors were in heavy supply and ours, Xristo, was a bundle of 25-year-old enthusiasm. Data from ski company Heidi show that sales of trips to Bulgaria are up 118 per cent year-on-year - Marianna Hunt Popular price tag On the chairlifts, we heard a chorus of UK accents from Scouse to South Welsh. Certainly, booking figures suggest the good value and good snow have been drawing in British tourists. Data from ski company Heidi show that sales of trips to Bulgaria are up 118 per cent year-on-year and outstripping the classic European ski destinations by some way. New operators, such as loveholidays, have entered the market to cater to the growing demand while more established ones, like Snowmads, have been scaling up capacity. I spoke to one 30-something Briton who told us he usually goes to France with friends to ski. This year they said it was too expensive, so I decided to come here by myself, he said. A mum of four told me theyd been coming to Bansko for years because of the low prices. Although it has definitely become more expensive recently, she admitted. Personally, I was surprised by the prices I saw in the mountain restaurants. For somewhere famed for its affordability, 9 Bulgarian lev (BGN) almost 4 for a Nescafe machine cappuccino felt steep, as did 27BGN (11) for a distinctly average margherita pizza. Booze, however, was cheap. You could pick up a good bottle of local wine (try the Melnik, a native grape similar to Pinot Noir) in the supermarket for about 12BGN (5). Finding Banksos charm Of course, the joy of a ski holiday lies not just in the snow. We tramped through town, passing off licenses, peep show bars and kebab shops. I kept looking fruitlessly for the charm for the cosy chalet restaurants and local cheesemongers. Then, almost imperceptibly, the town seemed to morph. Clubs pumping out Europop were replaced by olde-worlde taverns, where folk music meddled out shuttered windows, and bakeries piled high with golden castles of pastry. Menu prices suddenly became much more affordable around 15 BGN (6) for a main dish. We also found a stunning Orthodox church (St Trinity) with enormous chandeliers, rainbow frescoes and glittering icons. Sliding into one of the taverns, Molerite, we were greeted by the effusive owner, Malin, who plied us with his delicious homemade Melnik and stories of the local forests our meal had come from. Platters of reindeer stew and buttery foraged mushrooms were interspersed with visits to his ageing cellar and serenades by a four-piece folk band. Marianna tucking into reindeer stew, beef fillet and sauteed potatoes at Molerite restaurant in Bansko - Marianna Hunt The food and wine would command gourmet prices in London yet 1-litre carafes of wine cost just 21BGN (9) and plates of succulent barbecued meat started from around 17BGN (7). At the end we asked our waiter, Stanislav, how much a taxi to our hotel would cost. Instead, he offered us a lift. In the car, I realised Id found the charm I was looking for. Not necessarily in the restaurant itself (lovely though it was) but in the people. I remembered how my skis and bags had been carried up the stairs in the ski hire shop (Pirin 2000) every day before I could even grab them and the care our ski instructor had taken in coaxing me down a run slick with ice. Even our tour of the Saint George boot room had been accompanied by two affable hotel staff, desperate to show off their facilities. The people of Bansko had that rare virtue you rarely find in other European ski resorts these days: they actually want you to be there. And if good hospitality doesnt equal good value, Im not quite sure what does. Essentials Marianna Hunt was a guest of Heidi (heidi.com). Heidi offers six nights self-catered for two at Saint George Palace Aparthotel from 725 per person, including flights to Sofia, private transfers, lift pass and equipment hire. 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. FROM INFLUENCING TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP: Evolving beyond eyewear, fashion influencer Karen Wazen unveiled her namesake brands new product offering Wednesday: fashion jewelry. This is the start of us being a full-fledged accessories brand, said Wazen, who first launched her eyewear brand five years ago and boasts more than 8 million followers on Instagram. The first drop in her fashion jewelry line, the Bonds of Gold, collection, features stackable bangles and the brands dual diamond-shaped logo in the form of oversized hoop earrings. Her inspiration for the design, which creates the illusion of an infinite bonded chain is the personal connections we cultivate throughout our lives, she said. Fittingly, the first jewelry campaign features her longtime best friend, artist and influencer Dana Hourani someone Wazen says embodies the intertwining threads of friendship, love and shared experiences. More from WWD Adding jewelry was a natural step for Wazens Dubai-based, brand which she created to reflect her own contemporary style, a reflection of her world balancing life as a busy working mom. The content creator told WWD the brand saw 90 percent year-on-year growth in the last year driven by its expansion in brick-and-mortar retail spaces. Wazen currently has four retail spaces in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Lebanon with plans to expand further this year. The first boutique opened in her native Lebanon in 2023 as a symbolic gesture to honor her fanbase. We wanted to be available in Lebanon to the community that supported me early on, she said. Demand was high so the brand opened a second store in Lebanon, followed by a location at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, Wazens adopted home, this past December, and most recently, a fourth location in Abu Dhabi. She said the pace of growth into brick-and-mortar operations was not originally part of the strategic growth plan, but was a natural step as sales grew. Now the retail operation comprises 75 percent of our total revenue while our wholesale operation is 25 percent. While she didnt anticipate the success of having her own retail presence, it makes sense, she said, given their hero product. For eyewear you really need to try on the item and see how it makes you feel and fits you. Sunglasses personally for me are a tool that make me feel more confident, more powerful, more present in a room. She explained that the company can create the story around the brand more effectively with its own stores, citing her original inspiration for the brand being her own childhood insecurities around having very big eyes. Wazen says the company hopes to double growth in 2024 with the launch of three more retail outlets in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The second biggest growth has come from the U.S. via online, direct sales. The market penetration in the U.S., she said, has been organic. But she credits celebrity interest as helping fuel that, including the likes of Beyonce wearing and posting her eyewear. When I first started the brand, it did of course leverage me personally as a social media personality with a following and reach, but I really always wanted it to evolve beyond that, she said. For me to now see the brand is seeing people all over the world wearing it, not people who know or recognize me, but people who appreciate the brand and identify with the product. The jewelry collection, which launches Thursday on the brands website, has been in the works for quite some time, she said. One of the great advantages of having an online presence is being able to test and tease products and get organic feedback. For the jewelry, which Wazen said she could be seen wearing casually in posts, that interaction with fans help bolster the move into the category. It was crazy we got so many questions about whether we would make it available. Its really exciting for us to see it come out now, she said. Best of WWD Boeing has announced the first ousting of a company official over a month after a door plug flew off of a Boeing 737 Max 9 mid-air, triggering an emergency landing. On Wednesday, Boeing President and CEO Stan Deal announced the immediate departure of Ed Clark, the head of Boeings 737 Max program, in a memo circulated to staff. Clark had been hired to oversee the production of the aircrafts in 2021, after two fatal crashes killed 346 people. Earlier this month, the carrier announced that it would be making other changes to ensure quality control, including increased inspections at its factory in Renton, Washington, where Clark had been in charge. In addition to the missing bolts blamed for the blow-out, an employee discovered improperly drilled holes on some of the jets fuselages. Last month, the Federal Aviation Administration placed restrictions on the production of Boeings 737 Max airplanes. We will not agree to any request from Boeing for an expansion in production or approve additional production lines for the 737 MAX until we are satisfied that the quality control issues uncovered during this process are resolved, said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker, in a statement. 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. Immigrant flavor fills a deep melting pot of patriotism at Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida. Casimiro Hernandez Sr., an immigrant from Cuba of Spanish heritage, founded the festive dining landmark in 1905. "My great-great-grandfather came from Cuba because he wanted to build a better life for his family," Casey Gonzmart Jr., the fifth-generation co-owner, told Fox News Digital. TAMPA IS TOP OF MIND: WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO EAT, AND WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE "The name Columbia back then was used as a substitute name for the United States. Its what they called the U.S. He loved America so much, he loved Columbia so much. He wanted to name his restaurant after the place he loved." Columbia lays claim as the oldest continually operating restaurant in Florida and the largest and oldest Spanish eatery in the United States. Casey Gonzmart Jr. is part of the fourth generation of owners of Tampa dining landmark Columbia Restaurant. His great-grandfather Casimiro Hernandez Sr. not only founded the restaurant in 1905, he is credited by many observers as creator of the original Tampa Cuban sandwich. It's been recognized for its contributions to state heritage by the Florida senate. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP It's always busy. Columbias menu is a tribute to the multicultural tastes of Tampas historic Ybor City and of the United States. The rich, colorful flavors on the table are reflected in the bright decor of deep ocean blues and sunny yellows. A large mural in one room depicts the ships of the first Christopher Columbus expedition to the Western Hemisphere. TAMPA IS BIRTHPLACE OF THE CUBAN SANDWICH, AMERICAN CULINARY CLASSIC FLAVORED BY MANY CULTURES Columbia's sumptuous paella Espanola is an homage to "Spain's national dish." It's packed with shrimp, scallops, calamari and clams, plus chicken and pork, baked over a bed of golden Valencia rice. The Cuban sandwich, now widely coveted across the United States, was reportedly born at Columbia. Despite the name, it's an all-American fusion of international influences: Cuban pork, Spanish ham, Italian salami, German pickles and mustard, and Swiss cheese. Each culture has enjoyed a historic presence together in Tampa. The paella Espanola is one of the signature dishes at Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida. "It represents all the different cultures that make Ybor City such a great place," said Gonzmart. Columbia's flavors are so bright and bold that even its signature salad is a can't-miss savory sensation. The Original 1905 salad boasts baked ham, Swiss cheese and grated Roman cheese, plus some vegetables, too. It's tossed with chilled crispy lettuce, tomato and olives and sharpened with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. KIRK CAMERON ANNOUNCED INNOVATIVE NEW TV SERIES, SAYS AMERICA'S PARENTS ARE SICKENED BY WOKE HOLLYWOOD Columbia's food, and its name, pay homage to the unmatched global diversity of the United States, the nation where the word "immigrant" itself was coined. The historical importance of the name Columbia is worth remembering today, said Gonzmart. "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean" was a popular patriotic anthem in the 19th century and into the 20th century. Columbia Restaurant is an American culinary landmark in the Ybor City neighborhood of Tampa, Florida. The crew of Apollo 11, returning from the triumph of the first moon landing, splashed down in the Pacific Ocean in the space capsule Columbia. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER It was a landmark moment in world history achieved first and still only by the nation of immigrants. Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins, plucked from the sea, were greeted by the sounds of "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean" from a U.S. Navy band as they boarded the aircraft carrier USS Hornet. "We call Columbia the gem of Spanish restaurants," said Gonzmart. "This restaurant represents all the passionate, patriotic feelings our family had and has for America." For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle. Original article source: Florida landmark, Columbia Restaurant, flavored by 'passionate, patriotic' immigrant experience At least two overseas investors appear to be eyeing U.S. retailers. Will more follow suit? The two retailers, The Childrens Place and Kohls Corp., recently saw foreign investors take significant stakes in their companies. More from Sourcing Journal Its actually not that common to hear of foreign investment interest in a U.S. retailer. The examples, whether by a strategic or a financial investor, are few and far between. In addition, the track record isnt great. Theres Canadian real estate developer Robert Campeau who in the 1980s bought Allied Stores for $3.6 billion using mostly debt. He later added his $6.6 billion takeover of Federated Department Stores to his holdings and merged it with Allied. But Campeau failed to refinance Federateds debt, sending the retailer into bankruptcy. Federated emerged from bankruptcy in 1992, and went on to acquire out of bankruptcy R.H. Macy & Co., its chief competitor, in 1994. Federated changed its corporate name in 2007 to Macys Inc. There was also the upscale Japanese fashion retailer The Isetan Co., which bankrolled the expansion of Barneys New Yorks three U.S. flagships in New York, Chicago and Beverly Hills. But the investment derailed because of a dispute and Barneys filed for bankruptcy in 1993. The retailer exited bankruptcy three years later and was acquired by American apparel giant Jones Apparel Group Inc. for $400 million in 2004. Jones sold Barneys in 2007 to Istithmar World, the investment arm of the Dubai government, for $942.3 million. Two years later, the Middle Eastern emirate faced financial pressures and began hunting for a buyer for the specialty chain. In 2012, Barneys was taken over by Richard Perry in a debt-for-equity swap. Barneys ended up in bankruptcy again, and was acquired in 2019 by current owner Authentic Brands Group. Theres been other foreign interest in the past, but those explorations failed for one reason or another. Fast Retailing was in the running to acquire Barneys but dropped out, which paved the way for Istithmars deal. And in the first Barneys bankruptcy case, there was a $240 million bid from Hong Kongs Dickson Concepts that was rejected by the creditors committee, while a revised bid failed to get finalized. And then there was Baugur Group, the Icelandic investment firm which eventually owned an 8.5 percent stake in Saks Inc. in 2007. Baugur, which had stakes in House of Fraser and Hamleys, had been interested in acquiring Saks, and even considered a joint bid with Dubai-owned Landmark Group. But tight credit markets and Icelands financial crisis eventually led to Baugurs own bankruptcy filing in 2009. The Childrens Place The childrens retailer on Thursday said Snowball Compounding Ltd. sent a letter notifying the company that it owns 54 percent of the retailers outstanding shares. Snowball, which is connected to Mithaq Capital SPC, also intends to nominate 11 people to the retailers board of directors at its 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The Childrens Place said in a statement that it plans to accept Mithaqs request to enter into talks about financing to help with the retailers liquidity needs. But if those talks result in a financing agreement, that would need the approval of the retailers lenders. And thats where the share acquisition gets interesting. The Gymboree owner said Mithaqs share purchases triggered a Change of Control provision that caused a default event under its lending agreement and that it needs to obtain a waiver to reconcile the default. For now, Mithaqs equity position could be deemed worthless until lenders sign off on the waiver. And the way Mithaq took control of the retailerbuying shares on the open market over a three-day period, according to regulatory filings with the Securities and Exchange Commissionis highly unusual. One former retail executive said the share purchases was one way to effect a takeover at a value price. But whats unclear is why Mithaq is interested in the retailer. Shares of the stock were trading in the $19 range, well off the 52-week high of $46.09. But after the companys Feb. 9 fourth-quarter profit warning and disclosure of its liquidity problems, the shares began trading at a discount and were as low a $8.30 a share. Regulatory filings by Mithaq noted share purchases in the range of $9.40 to $17.10. Mithaq Capital is a Saudi Arabian firm based in Riyadh. It reportedly operates as a family office of the Al-Rajhi family, which founded Al Rajhi Bank in 1957. Kohls Corp. Kohls has seen its share of activist investors over the last two years. Most recently, the department store retailer caught the attention of Vision One Management Partners, which has built a stake in the company and is believed to have asked Kohls to put itself up for sale. But Vision One isnt the only institutional investor keeping close tabs on Kohls. Regulatory filingsrequired when stakes reach 5 percent or highershow that Dimensional Fund Advisors and FMR have taken sizable positions. But the one thats most interesting is Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC Private Limited, which took a 5.01 percent stake in Kohls, according to an SEC filing. Unlike Mithaq, which seems to new to retail, GIC is no stranger to the sector through its real estate positions. In June 2001, GIC said it and The Phoenix Mills Limited formed a strategic partnership to establish an investment platform for retail-led mixed-used assets in India. GICs minority stake was valued at $733 million, consisting of 3.4 million square feet of leasable retail and office space located in prime consumption centers of Mumbai and Pune. GIC has been investing in India for more than a decade and our long-term confidence in the Indian real estate market remains strong, Lee Kok Sun, GICs chief investment officer of real estate, said at the time. Since then, GIC has continued its real estate focused investments, partnering with local firms for convenience-based shopping centers in Australia and distribution centers and stores in Brazil. Those moves suggest that GIC could be banking on a shift in ownership of Kohls real estate, especially if activists become more vocal in agitating for change. GIC has invested in U.S. real estate before. In 2006, the company invested $200 million in Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village, but that GIC later posted a $675 million on the investment after Tishman Speyer Properties and BlackRock Realty defaulted on their loan in 2010. The Foreign Office has come under fire after more than 35 MPs and travel operators signed a petition arguing that its travel advice is outdated and overly harsh. The open letter, coordinated by the Experience Travel Group, says the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice for Sri Lanka is synthetic and condemns the government for systematically undermining the travel industry by retaining warnings that needlessly deter British citizens from visiting. The FCDOs Sri Lanka page warns that terrorists are likely to carry out attacks and warns of political and economic unrest in the country, among other advice. The last terror attack in Sri Lanka was almost five years ago, in April 2019, when more than 250 people, including eight British citizens, were killed. The FCDO advice is designed to protect and help British citizens travelling abroad, with information on safety and security, immunisation and visa requirements, plus embassy contact details. It is the UK authority on safety overseas, and the Telegraph Travel desk only recommends trips to destinations that are deemed safe by the FCDO. However, during the pandemic, the FCDO advice came under the spotlight. Its pages detailed Covid travel advice, such as the contentious traffic light system, and more than ever these politely informative corners of the internet were the source of breaking news and, inevitably, their sage words came under closer scrutiny. Tourists arrive in Sri Lanka in 2022. Are Brits being deterred from visiting there under FCDO advice? - Getty That seems to have trickled into the post-Covid era. The latest campaign argues not just for an update to the Sri Lanka page, but for ministers to reform the FCDOs approach from the bottom up [to ensure] there is consistency so tourist industries and travellers alike can place their trust in the advice once again. How did we get here, and do the FCDO advice pages really need a fresh look? The evolution of Foreign Office advice Jonny Bealby has travelled extensively and runs the adventure tour operator Wild Frontiers. He remembers the early days of FCDO advice. The only memory I have of pre-internet Foreign Office warnings was while travelling across the Med from Marseille to Tunis on a trans-Africa motorcycle journey, he says. I switched on my shortwave radio to hear an announcement on the BBC World Service I presume by the Foreign Office telling people to Leave Zaire immediately. Take one bag each and no pets. The year was 1991. It was October, and President Mobutu was starting to lose his grip on power. Thats how they told people back then, through the radio and the BBC World Service. In the pre-internet age, Foreign Office advice was less prevalent than it is in todays era of independent travel. The vast majority of people booked their overseas trips with a high-street travel agent, so if there were any concerns they would be raised at this point, or for those few people travelling independently it would be a phone call to the Foreign Office, keeping the radio switched on, and regularly reading the newspaper for updates. These days, the FCDO has an online travel advice page for every country on the planet. And its words offer more than mere guidance. Most insurance firms say their cover will not be valid if a destination has an FCDO advisory against travel in place before clients depart, and most Atol-protected tour operators will cancel holidays in this scenario and offer a full refund or rebooking option. As of last month, 66 countries are either entirely or partially blacklisted by the Foreign Office amounting to approximately one fifth of the Earths land area. Are FCDO warnings getting more strict? The Sri Lanka petitioners focus on the wording in the Safety and Security page. This reads: Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners such as hotels, tourist sites and places of worship. Avoid crowded public places, large gatherings and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities. It comes after the attacks of Easter Sunday in 2019, when more than 250 were killed in attacks on three churches and three hotels in Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa. The FCDOs language regarding terrorism is similar across its pages. On the France page, the warning is that a terrorist attack is very likely, and it lists the places where these could take place (such as shopping centres and at cultural events). It adds that tourists should be vigilant in public places. Germany, Sweden and Belgium also have a very likely terrorist warning. In Spain, Greece and the Netherlands an attack is likely, whereas in Italy, Portugal and Croatia it cannot be ruled out. A spokesperson for the FCDO said: The safety of British people is the main factor when determining our travel advice. Our advice is designed to help British people make informed decisions about foreign travel and remains under constant review to ensure it reflects our latest assessment of risks when travelling abroad. Munich during Oktoberfest. The FCDO advice warns that a terrorist attack is 'very likely' in Germany - Getty When you dig into the fine print of FCDO pages, there are instances where guidance teeters into hand-holding. For example, Spain: Take care when swimming in the sea; Turkey: Accepting lifts from strangers can be dangerous; USA: Check weather conditions before a long car journey; Croatia: Do not leave valuables unattended. All, arguably, might come under the remit of universal common sense. The FCDO advice is supposed to be updated regularly; however, some of its pages are significantly out of date. The Greece page reads: Athens will host the UEFA Europa League on Thursday 30 November between AEK and Brighton. That match was almost three months ago. And some statements are somewhat sweeping. The Cyprus page reads: Driving standards are poor and there is an increased risk of road deaths compared to the UK. There were 34 road deaths in Cyprus in 2023 (one in 36,500 residents) whereas there were 1,633 road deaths in Great Britain (one in 41,200 residents) a margin, some would argue, that does not indicate drastically worse standards. The rebellious travel firms While the majority of tour operators such as Tui, Jet2Holidays or easyJet Holidays would cancel an itinerary if there is an orange FCDO advisory against all non-essential travel, or a red warning against all travel, to a destination, others take a more nuanced view. Andrea Godfrey, Head of Regent Holidays, tells The Telegraph: The safety of our clients is always and unquestionably the most important consideration. An orange FCDO advisory doesnt automatically take a destination off sale, but we take our guidance based on thorough investigation with our trusted local partners, who are usually best placed to advise on the situation on the ground, and ensure that there are travel insurance policies on the market providing adequate coverage. Our experience from selling destinations like Albania and North Korea is that the advisory can be slow to lift, out of date, or at times politically motivated, and isnt always an accurate representation of the level of risk in the destination. Ultimately our clients will make the decision, informed by the most considered and up-to-date advice we can give, and supported by valid travel insurance. Jonny Bealby of Wild Frontiers says: I am very sympathetic to the impossible task they have set themselves and I think there is mostly a genuine desire to get the advice right for travellers. That doesnt mean that I always agree with it, or even understand it how can Srinagar be considered too dangerous for Brits, but fine for hundreds of thousands of Indian tourists? but I do think they try to get it right. Some of our customers will take the FCDO advice very literally and will not travel if there is an advisory against travel. Others are more sanguine about it these days and as long as we can provide them with adequate insurance, will travel. We have a number of trips that contravene FCDO advice that sell well: Kashmir, Laos and Pakistan among them. Do I worry about it? No. I generally take my advice from elsewhere. 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. Dave and Jenny Marrs have the magic touch when it comes to home renovations, and, thanks to their series Fixer to Fabulous, they share their talents with fans on HGTV. If you've ever dreamed of having Dave and Jenny renovate your home, you've likely wondered who pays for the renovations on Fixer to Fabulous. According to the show's official casting application, there are several rules to follow. The house must be within 30 miles of Bentonville, Arkansas, and not in Fayetteville due to permit restrictions. The application states that a renovation fund of at least $120,000 is required, and the applicants have to prove how it will be financed (cash, a loan, etc.). Also, they have to be willing to move out of their homes for the seven- to nine-week renovation period, which is an added expense. Courtesy of HGTV The same goes for the furniture. Jenny uses existing pieces when possible, but she supplements her design with additional products. Jenny told PureWow, "If theres a piece of their furniture that we can use, we do. But otherwise, I work with a local firm and pretty much figure out what I would do for the client. And then the homeowners have the option to buy it at a discounted rate." These policies are commonplace for HGTV home renovation shows. According to the network, "Homeowners have to come up with the money for the projects. While HGTV doesnt front the bill...the network does, at times, contribute construction funds to help enhance and speed up projects for television." The benefit of being on the show is getting able to work with skilled builders and designers like Dave and Jenny. While the Marrs family is based in Arkansas, they're soon taking their talents overseas! Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano premieres on March 12. You Might Also Like Tiki bars have long represented escapism to an island paradise without having to leave the comfort of one's town. Tiki culture, with its colorful decorations and Caribbean rum cocktails in cocktail glasses featuring Polynesian art, became prevalent in American culture in the mid-20th century. However, the history of tiki bars and their ties to American colonialism, as well as cultural appropriation of Polynesian and Maori culture, have made them controversial institutions. The history of tiki bars in America predates Hawaii joining the United States, with the first tiki bar of its kind dating back to the early 1900s. Ernest Raymond Gantt, or Donn Beach (as he would later change his name to), is credited with introducing the concept. Born in New Orleans, Beach spent much of the early 1900s bouncing around the Caribbean and the Pacific islands, working at one point as a beachcomber in Tahiti. In part to avoid the Prohibition back home, Beach's travels gave him a new appreciation for Caribbean rums. He also started collecting cultural artifacts, which he would later use to decorate his tiki bars. Tiki art originates from Maori culture on the Marquesas Islands and spread to most Polynesian islands, with the most famous representations being the massive moai heads of Easter Island. Polynesian islanders carved symbols of tiki on trees and other materials to represent half-man, half-god mythical creatures who created the first human beings. Beach relied on these motifs to help sell the allure of the islands to landlocked Americans. He opened the first tiki bar in Hollywood in 1933. Read more: The Ultimate American Fast Food Restaurants Ranked The Rise And Fall Of Tiki Bars In America tiki ceramic cocktail cup with fruit - ILya Soldatkin/Shutterstock Donn Beach decorated his tiki bar to offer a taste of an island escape, adorning the establishment with cultural artifacts he collected during his travels. As would become the norm, rum was the focus of Beach's tiki bar. Revolutionizing the world of cocktails in more ways than one, Beach became known for his complex drinks, combining fruits and different types of rum, the chief among them being the Zombie. These were a far cry from the syrupy cocktails of the tiki bars in the 1980s. However, Beach's drinks were still inauthentic to Polynesian culture, as islanders didn't drink the kinds of cocktails Beach pushed, per tiki historian Jeff Berry in Eater. The concept of tiki bars proved to be successful, with Beach's competitor Victor Bergeron finding widespread success with his tiki franchise Trader Vic's and its famous mai tai cocktail. As for Beach, he later returned home after World War II to find that his first wife had franchised his bar without his permission. Beach later moved to Hawaii to pursue other ventures, but the reign of tiki was in full effect across the continental United States. However, the counterculture of the late 60's caused tiki bars to fall out of favor. This younger generation viewed tiki bars as tacky and inauthentic, and the issue of cultural appropriation became apparent. The Polynesian culture, and its gods and mythology, had been marketed and sold as island bliss and escapism. However, according to Beach's second wife, his passion for tiki bars came out of a profound appreciation for the Southern Pacific cultures, per Difford's Guide. Resurgence Of Tiki Bars And Cultural Appropriation garnishing a tiki cocktail - Maksym Fesenko/Shutterstock The decline may have started in the late 60s, but the 80s hastened their fall from grace across the country. Tiki historian Berry told Eater that cocktails in general took a backslide during this era, but tiki bars in particular took a hit, with the public consensus being that they served overly sugary, syrupy drinks that no one wanted. However, new adopters of tiki drink culture picked up an appreciation for tiki bars in the 1990s. Likewise, shows like "Mad Men" in the 2000s, which takes place in the time period when tiki bars were a fad, made new fans out of viewers. These new adopters developed a nostalgia for these establishments, viewing them as colorful relics of their parents' past. They quickly pointed out that tiki culture shouldn't be and isn't representative of actual Polynesian culture. New fans of the aesthetic argue that tiki bars are supposed to represent a uniquely American experience of Pacific Islander culture without parodying it. However, critics point out that tiki culture was created from experiences that took place in the context of colonialism and American militarism in the Southern Pacific, and that the fad erases the issues many Pacific Islanders are still dealing with from the history of colonization. Stephanie Nohelani Teves, a native Hawaiian and associate professor at the University of Oregon, told the LA Times, "The nostalgia people express through tiki is offensive because it forgets that this colonialism and militarism is ongoing, not temporary. Not past. Not over." Read the original article on Daily Meal. (Bloomberg) -- Blackstone Inc. is changing the leadership of a team that buys stakes in other private equity firms. Most Read from Bloomberg Executives told employees that Mustafa Siddiqui, who led the business, decided to leave, according to people familiar with the matter. The alternative-asset manager is shifting the group out of the hedge fund investing unit led by Joe Dowling. The team will now be under Verdun Perrys secondaries arm, which buys and builds portfolios of fund assets. Josh Blaine, a senior executive within the secondaries business, will be in charge of the private equity stakes group, some of the people said. Blackstone and Siddiqui didnt immediately reply to requests for comment. The move is an attempt to reinvigorate a group thats facing more competition for deals and talent. The business has let Blackstone wager on the growth of other private equity firms, such as GTCR, Sentinel Capital Partners and FTV Capital. But in recent years, several dealmakers and executives left to join competitors. Blackstone held off on the launch of its latest fund focused on stakes in other private equity firms as it prepared to change management. Top executives determined it makes sense to pair a business that acquires stakes in private equity shops with a group that has longstanding ties across the industry. Perrys business collected $22.2 billion last year for one of the biggest secondaries funds on record. Blackstone is continuing to hunt for deals for its latest stakes fund, which closed in 2021 with $5.6 billion, and it plans to forge ahead with a new fund, some of the people said. Its stakes in private equity firms have generated a net internal rate of return of about 17%, one of the people said. Story continues Siddiqui, who previously worked at the firms private equity arm, was named to lead the stakes unit in 2020. His deputy, Ward Young, will become chief investment officer of the group, the person said. The firm is also shifting its master limited partnerships business, previously run under the credit operation, to its hedge fund arm. --With assistance from Erin Fuchs. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Call her Sherlock Hermes. Ingrid Chua, a journalist and blogger behind the Bag Hag Diaries, started noticing a strange phenomenon back in 2019, mostly on Instagram and high-end resale sites. They were flooded with oddball luxury itemspouches, tote bags, and beach towelspriced at a fraction of, say, a leather purse. These goodies were touted as never-for-sale VIP gifts, treats handed to friends of the brand, influencers, or free-spending clients. Chuas suspicions were piqued by the volumes on offer, perhaps 20 or more from a single seller who might also offer a wait list for the next delivery. If youre a VIP, you might get one or two things, but how do they have batch after batch of them? It was seriously shady, she scoffs. So, Chua started snooping, setting up fake Insta handles to query the sellers on that platform. It was obvious to her that most, if not all, of these items were counterfeit. When she started sharing screengrabs of her exchanges on her Instagram Stories, the abuse began. I got threats, things like Were going to sue you, youre making us lose revenue. Undeterred, Chua kept digging, even hiring a trio of photographers to analyze images shared as part of the sales pitches. Take the makeup pouch purportedly offered by Chanel Beauty as a thank you to certain customers that was pictured on one of the brands makeup counters. Guess what? All three of them said it was superimposed on the imagethere was no reflection in the vitrine, she says. More from Robb Report Chuas crusade is well-timed. Luxury brands have embraced the trappings of so-called clienteling with more gusto than ever, competing to outdo each other in their cosseting of VICs (Very Important Clients); keeping influencers onside the same way is vital, too. One now-commonplace tactic for both involves creating one-off, branded keepsakes that will be gifted rather than sold; these may be available only to certain buyers or are never even offered in the retail environment. There might be a leather wristlet, a key fob, or a small pouch; Prada sent limited-edition shirts to a small number of VICs as a Christmas gift, while Chanel could send a top buyer some throw pillows as a birthday shoutout. Still, those who dont receive such treats still want them and will pay handsomely for that freebie. I often get sourcing requests for VIP gifts, usually Chanel onesmost recently, it was the free Chanel T-shirt that was sent with invitations to the latest Chanel show in Los Angeles, says Gab Waller, who runs a business scoring hard-to-find luxury items for clients. In that case, Waller, who is based in California, happened to have a personal friend who received one and was happy to resell it. It was a one-off exception, because 99 percent of the time, I decline the request, she says. With my flat-rate sourcing fee, the price could get high very quickly. And its hard for me to justify the resale price on an item that was essentially free. That doesnt sit right with me. The fact that most come via the resale marketand have murky provenance as a resultmakes Waller even warier. Counterfeit Chanel bags. Delphine Sarfati-Sobreira agrees. The Paris-based executive runs Unifab, or the Union des Fabricants, which effectively campaigns against counterfeiting on all fronts on behalf of 200 or so members, including Hermes, Yves Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga. She cites data that 52 percent of Europeans aged 15 to 24 bought a counterfeit product last year, and in France, just over a third of buyers unknowingly bought a fake online. The difference between now and 15 years ago, when someone was press or a VIP client and received a gift, they will keep it, Sarfati-Sobreira tells Robb Report, Now, with the rise of influencers, they resell it on secondhand platforms. And then counterfeiters see that and decide to sell their own products the same way. Influencers, she explains, both turned on a spigot of selling VIP gifts on the secondary market while driving up demand for them in the luxury-loving public. Gifts have been quietly regifted or resold forever, says Susan Scafidi, but in the era of influencers, luxury is being defined as access to experience, [rather] than to goods anyone can buy with enough money. And these items are now proof of that experience. Scafidi is a Fordham University professor in New York City, with particular expertise in luxury counterfeiting and head of the non-profit Fashion Law Institute. She says these freebies are heavy with cultural capital, tokens of clout and access. That little bag on the front-row seat at a show is a heavy hitter for a certain demographic. They appeal to people who wish they could have been there, and want to emulate the people who were, Scafidi says. The surge in branded items that have little to no valuea cotton T-shirt or plastic pouch rather than a leather bag, for examplehas been driven by the clampdown in tax law, Scafidi explains, whereby freebies like this are taxable. (Last years Oscar gift bag, for example, would trigger at least $46,000 to the IRS, and came with a 1099 to make declaring that debt even easier.) Better, then, to offer something whose value is merely branding rather than the materials from which its made. Counterfeiting a logo, of course, is much easier than duplicating workmanship or high-quality hide. Scafidi herself points to a T-shirt sent out by a brand she declines to name citing professional concerns: On the front, in big bold letters, was the logo and, still attached, was the American Apparel label, too. Scafidi adds that theres a particular wrinkle in American law that makes faking these freebies even more appealing stateside. U.S. law requires that a trademark be used in commerce to protect it. Something given away in a product category that a brand doesnt ordinarily producea Champagne flute from a company that produces clothing and small leather goods, for example. Technically it wouldnt be protected. Household names, she continues, could pursue claims against brand dilution, but anti-counterfeiting controls are much harder to apply to anything that was, at least initially, given rather than sold. Theres another reason driving the surge in sales of shoddy, or counterfeit, gifts: the explosion of resale sites like TheRealReal or Vinted. Unlike a traditional consignment boutique, which operated on a smaller scale often with regular consignees known to the owner, these are world-spanning businesses with aggressive ambitions to scale. See, for example, how Vestiaire Collective is now run by start-up superstar Max Bittner, whose first business sold for billions to Alibaba, or the blockbuster IPO four years ago from TheRealReal, which raised $300 million (though the shares, priced at $20 for the offering, now hover at barely one-tenth of that). Once you give the average consumer out there control to post anything in a marketplace, youre basically putting up a luxury Craigslist, says Chua, Its a free-for-all and caveat emptor. You just have to hope not to get screwed. Indeed, one resellerin this case, the decades-old What Goes Around Comes Around in New Yorkjust lost a lawsuit with Chanel around these very items. The French luxury house accused the shop of selling counterfeit goods and promotional items that were not intended for sale. The judge just ruled in Chanels favor over everything from trademark infringement to false advertising, landing the reseller with a $4 million bill for damages. An authentic Chanel logo item (top) and a counterfeit one. London-based Winston Chesterfield runs his own luxury consultancy, Barton. He says the Internet-driven transformation of the secondary market is fundamental to the problem: When you do a private show for your ultra-high-end clients, those spending more than $100,000 in a Mayfair townhouse, theyll give a bag of goodies at the end of it. But the client isnt interested in themnine out of 10 people like that you speak to? Theyll give those to their PA or housemaid. In the past, Chesterfield says, that pass-along treat would have been used or perhaps occasionally sold to a friend. Now, its a lucrative moneymaker on eBay, creating a secondary market thats easily exploited by unscrupulous counterfeiters. Chesterfield echoes Scafidis idea that the current quality of these giveaways is also a factor. Theyre producing for the lowest common denominator, pap that the higher-end, higher-value clients dont want and dont need. Its the marketing department taking the initiative, and its a little bit out of control. Brands, unsurprisingly, arent keen to engage on the topic, whether those resale platforms or the designer marques themselves. May Berthelot, who runs the anti-counterfeiting operation at Vinted and has shared social media screeds on this topic, declined to speak to Robb Report. Note, though, that platforms like that are increasingly banning VIP gifts from being offered for salethe Bittner-run Vestiaire Collective, for example, will not sell VIP gifts (items received at press or VIP events, items gifted by the brand, free gifts offered in-store as part of a purchase), or items not for sale (including items marked as Not for Sale, samples, packaging etc.). Still, perhaps the best way to tackle the issue isnt policing the sale but polluting the appeal. Harriet Quick cofounded Luminaire, a luxury sourcing start-up aimed at VICs. I dont think our clients are that interested in these items, the whole swathe of gifting that goes to influencers, she says. It doesnt suit them, because its all a bit too hype-y. Put simply, such items are both exclusive, and not very exclusive at all. Certainly, anyone trying to offload one online wont be the original recipient. The irony of this is that the VIP, that high-spending couture buyer somewhere like Dior or Chanel, probably just gives away the gift to someone or, quite frankly, throws it in the trash, says Bartons Chesterfield, of their tarnished appeal. Theyre very unlikely to bother taking pictures, writing up a description, and then chucking it online. 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. New moms are faced with constant pressure about all kinds of things, the most maddening of which is the scrutiny to change or fix their postpartum bodies. Ireland Baldwin is opening up about said pressure, sharing that shes over the hump and finally finding time to get this ass into shape nine months after welcoming daughter Holland in May 2023. Baldwin shared a series of silly selfies in her bra and underwear on Instagram, writing in her caption that shes 9 months postpartum and Im far from where I want to be but Im over the hump and finally finding time to get this ass into shape. Not necessarily working out everyday, but making strides to be more consistent, she continued. Walk more. Move more. Just wanted to do a solidarity post with anyone whos having a tough time getting inspired to change bad habits/work on yourself. I still have days where I binge eat an entire box of Girl Scout cookies for dinner but thats ok! It took 7-9 months to even start to lose any baby weight or care to and anyone who makes you feel bad for going at your own pace or not being enough can suck it. This shit is HARD. Be kind to yourself. While her message will no doubt ring true for anyone who has welcomed a baby, it is worth pointing out that even if you dont or cant work out, theres absolutely nothing wrong with that. We all have different resources and demands on our time, as well as circumstances that might make it difficult or impossible to focus on a fitness regime. But to Baldwins point, being kind to yourself and being gentle with your heart is always something to strive towards, especially after youve brought literal life into this world. Baldwin welcomed baby Holland with her partner, Andre Allen Anjos (a musician who goes by RAC). She has been consistently candid with Instagram followers about her pregnancy and postpartum experiences, a refreshing change from the ultra-filtered, picture-perfect content we typically see when scrolling our social media feeds. So anytime we get someone keeping it super real about eating Girl Scout cookies for dinner, we say bravo, and more of this, please! A minister has said that former defence secretary Ben Wallace and former director of special forces General Sir Roly Walker, who is to become head of the army in June, failed to properly investigate allegations of war crimes by the SAS in Afghanistan. Veterans minister Johnny Mercer was speaking to an inquiry into killings of Afghans by the UK special forces between 2010 and 2013. He told the inquiry yesterday that he tried to investigate the claims but that senior figures with the UK special forces were unable to answer basic questions and he did not believe them. On Tuesday, Mr Mercer said it became clear that figures within the Ministry of Defence were working against me when an email trail relating to the SAS allegations was published by The Sunday Times in 2020. He became angry with then-defence secretary Ben Wallace, then-director of special forces Gen Walker and other senior MoD figures after The Sunday Times piece showed that senior special forces officers expressed serious concerns about the killings of 33 people in 11 night raids in the war-torn nation in 2011. Mr Mercer said the director of special forces, the chief of the general staff and the defence secretary had "not done their job that was incumbent upon them with their rank and privileges in those organisations". He later added that senior figures within the MoD had failed in their most basic duty. He clarified that he did not think that anybody lied to me. Minister for veterans affairs Johnny Mercer continued his evidence to the inquiry on Wednesday (PA Wire) Gen Walker was director of special forces from 2018-2021 and he is due to take over as head of the army in June this year. Mr Mercer said he had repeatedly asked to see documentation relating to the UKSF war crimes allegations. He told the inquiry: It was completely unacceptable that I had asked to see this information and I found out about it in The Sunday Times. The veterans minister wrote to Mr Wallace in August 2020 shortly after emails surfaced. The letter, shown to the inquiry, detailed how he told Mr Wallace it was "completely unacceptable" he had been allowed to make statements to the Commons in January 2020 when people knew them to be "incorrect". Mr Mercer had played down the allegations in public and told the Commons that internal UKSF complaints related to a small number of individuals within the investigations team, when they were in fact widespread. Veterans minister Johnny Mercer said he was angry with former defence Secretary Ben Wallace (PA Archive) He asked Mr Wallace if he could correct the record in parliament but was refused, he told the inquiry. Later on, Mr Mercer said he has also heard from members of Afghan partner units directly that they had refused to work with a British special forces unit, known to the inquiry as UKSF1, after Afghan men, who had been restrained, were shot dead by UK special forces. They claimed Afghan children had also been killed by British soldiers, the inquiry heard. The killing of children was one trigger for Afghan partner forces to refuse to work with UKSF1, he said. Mr Mercer confirmed to the inquiry that these were allegations of murder. Many members of these Afghan partner units, known as the Triples, have been denied sanctuary in the UK by the MoD. UKSF have power over whether their applications for relocation are approved. Mr Mercer was also warned by the chairman of the independent inquiry of potentially serious legal consequences after he refused to disclose names of his sources to the investigation. Sir Charles Haddon-Cave told Mr Mercer his decision to refuse to answer legitimate questions ... at a public inquiry were disappointing ... surprising ... and completely unacceptable. He added that his refusal could have potentially serious legal consequences that I am prepared to put in train. Afghan families have accused UK special forces of conducting a campaign of murder against civilians, while senior officers and personnel at the MoD sought to prevent adequate investigation. Two Royal Military Police investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the inquiry. No charges were brought under Operation Northmoor - a 10m investigation which was set up in 2014 to examine allegations of executions by special forces, including those of children. Operation Cestro saw three soldiers referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority, but none of them were prosecuted. The inquiry continues. With over 45 years of news reporting experience, Al Roker is being celebrated by the journalism community. On February 15, the National Press Association honored the Today show host with the Sol Taishoff Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism at their annual dinner in Washington, D.C. The event brought together folks from across the media to highlight the best in the field, and Al celebrated his career milestone with someone special by his side. As he posted Instagram photos alongside his wife, ABC journalist Deborah Roberts, Al expressed his gratitude for the prize. He also revealed that the moment was made even more significant as Deborah was the one to present the award to him onstage ahead of his speech. "So honored to be presented the Broadcast Journalist Of The Year from the @national_press foundation," he wrote on February 16. "And to presented by the consummate #journalist @debrobertsabc made it even sweeter." Given how the NBC weatherman has made a name for himself over the years, it was no surprise to see fans rush to social media to celebrate the big moment with him. "Congratulations!! Well deserved!! ," one person wrote on Instagram. "What a fantastic recognition for you Al. Congrats ," another replied. "Oh my! Al this is fantastic news and so apropos! CONGRATULATIONS!!," a different follower added. While the news of Al being lauded by the National Press Association is a major thing to note, it's not the first time he's been recognized for his work. Back in March 2022, Al accepted the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism at Arizona State University. As for how the National Press Foundation feels about naming Al the Broadcast Journalist of the Year, they sung his praises for all he's done in journalism. "As the world and industry has undergone huge transformation, Als steadfastness stands out," said judges for the National Press Foundation in an official statement. "He has built a community around the TODAY show that helps connect people from all over the world to 'your neck of the woods.'" Congrats, Al! You Might Also Like A test launch of the UKs Trident nuclear missile has failed for the second time in a row, crashing back into the ocean almost immediately after being launched, a source has revealed. The launch was carried out during an exercise off the east coast of Florida on 30 January, with an unarmed Trident 2 missile fired off the nuclear-powered submarine HMS Vanguard, worth an estimated 4 billion. It was the first UK test launch in eight years after an attempt in 2016 also failed. The UK has not successfully launched a nuclear missile since 2012. The UK has four nuclear-armed submarines, one of which must continuously be at sea to deter nuclear threats from enemies such as Russia. This test launch was part of the final round of tests for the HMS Vanguard, which has just completed a 500m overhaul, before it returns to patrol service. But the Ministry of Defence confirmed that an anomaly had occured with this latest launch, conducted under test conditions, raising concerns about the effectiveness of Britains nuclear deterrent. It left the submarine but it just went plop, right next to them, a source said. Embarassingly, defence secretary Grant Shapps was on-board the 150 metre vessel at the time of the test launch, his spokesperson confirmed, while First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also reportedly present. Just last month, Mr Shapps said the UK was in a prewar phase. Undated handout photo issued by the Ministry of Defence of a still image taken from video of the missile firing from HMS Vigilant, which fired an unarmed Trident II (D5) ballistic missile (PA) The Trident missile, launched at the end of January, was due to land thousands of miles away at a point in the Atlantic between Brazil and West Africa. It was successfully propelled into the air by compressed gas in the launch pipe, but the missiles first stage boosters did not ignite and the missile crashed back down into the water. HMS Vanguard was under the surface, hovering at launch depth, but was not hit by the missile as it plunged back into the Atlantic. It comes just 10 days after the departure of the UKs flagship aircraft carrier for a major Nato exercise was postponed after an unspecified issue was found in final checks with the starboard propeller coupling. The Labour party has sought assurances from the Rishi Sunak government in the wake of the incident, calling the missile test failure concerning. The MoD did not describe the test as a failure, but admitted that during the test an anomaly occurred. A statement said that the nuclear-capable HMS Vanguard and her crew have been proven fully capable of operating the UKs Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work. The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UKs nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence, it added, while stressing that there were no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile following the failed launch. Mr Shapps is expected to present a written ministerial statement on Britains nuclear deterrent in the House of Commons on Wednesday, the days order paper read. Defence minister Grant Shapps was aboard HMS Vanguard when the missile test launch failed (PA) Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The defence secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UKs deterrent operations, John Healey, the shadow defence secretary, said on Wednesday morning. He added: Labours support for the UKs nuclear deterrent is total. We recognise the special service of those whove maintained our continuous at sea deterrence for over 50 years. The last time a Trident nuclear-capable warhead was tested by the Royal Navy, there was a serious malfunction in the system and the missile flew in the wrong direction. The British nuclear programme has seen opposition in different forms for decades in the UK. In 2007, a powerful coalition of 100 scientists, lawyers, church leaders, actors, writers and MPs demanded a halt to the rush by Tony Blair towards a replacement for Britains Trident nuclear weapon system. The first test launch of a Trident missile from a British submarine in 1994 was delayed for more than three hours by Greenpeace protesters, who also tried to stop a Trident missile being fired during the first US test in 1989. The new store will have a weekend-long celebration between March 8 and March 10. As part of it, Palmetto Moon give out two custom 10-ounce YETI Tumblers, while they are available, to people who spend $50. Project: Palmetto Moon Location: 1155 Buck Creek Road, G-702 Description: A new Palmetto Moon store is opening March 8 at the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, next to the Old Navy location, according to a release from the mall. The store will have a weekend-long celebration March 8-10. Palmetto Moon will give out two custom 10-ounce YETI Tumblers to people who spend $50, while supplies last. Those who attend the celebrations will be able to enjoy other perks and treats. "Kentucky, we love you to the moon and back! Kelsi Gannon, Palmetto Moon brand marketing manager, said. We cant thank you enough for welcoming us with open arms; your warm hospitality makes us feel right at home. Palmetto Moon sells a variety of items including clothes, shoes and gifts. The brands the store sells include YETI, Local Boy Outfitters, Stanley and local brands including Eat Your Bourbon and University of Kentucky collegiate gear. This will be the store's fourth location in Kentucky, including one in Louisville's Mall St. Matthews. Size: 5,500 square feet, a release stated. Curious about a development going in near you? Well look into it. Contact us with your questions and the location of the site at CJDevelopment@courier-journal.com. More: What's the big construction project on Veterans Parkway? See what's going in More: Do you run on Dunkin'? Here's where newest Louisville location will open this summer This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: See what new store is opening in the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass Fact checked by Nick Blackmer Key Takeaways Although the plague never fully went away, there are only seven new cases each year in the United States. The plague is spread through flea bites or direct contact with the tissues or fluids of an infected animal. Common antibiotics can treat the plague An Oregon resident likely contracted bubonic plague from their cat, according to local health officials. The bubonic plague is an infectious disease caused by the Yersinia pestis bacteria. The diseaseonce known as the black deathkilled at least 50 million people in medieval Europe, but now, only about seven people get infected in the United States each year. Cases of plague mostly occur in rural areas of the western U.S., where rodents are prone to fleas that may carry plague bacteria. Humans can get infected with bubonic plague either through flea bites or direct contact with the tissues or fluids of an infected animal. The plague is treatable with common antibiotics, so health authorities are not worried about an outbreak following the Oregon case. This person had what we call an infected lymph node, which does not pose a threat to the family members or anyone else that could have been in contact with it, said Emilio DeBess, DVM, MPVM, the state public health veterinarian at Oregon Health Authority. What Are the Symptoms of Plague? Bubonic is the most common type of plague. It causes fever, chills, headaches, and painful swollen lymph nodescalled buboesnear the site of the flea bite. If you got a flea bite on your hand, then you would have a swollen node in your axilla [armpit]. If you got a flea bite on your leg, then youd have a swollen node in your groin, Timothy F. Brewer, MD, MPH, professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, told Verywell. Untreated bubonic plague can progress to septicemic or pneumonic plague. Septicemic plaguewhich can also result from flea bites or handling an infected animalis characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills, weakness, shock, abdominal pain, and black, dead skin on the fingers, toes, and nose. Pneumonic plaguethe most severe form of plaguemay develop from inhaling infectious droplets as well. Its a lung infection that causes fever, headache, chest pain, coughing, and shock. Pneumonic plague is so severe and so quick that you dont get buboes, and usually those patients need to be treated right away or they will succumb to the disease, Brewer said. How Is Plague Treated? Its fairly easy for healthcare providers to diagnose bubonic plague if the patient has flu-like symptoms and painful swollen buboes. Septicemic and pneumonic plague often have no obvious signs, but a diagnosis can be made through blood cultures and lab testing. Untreated pneumonic plague can be fatal in less than 24 hours. Treatment is started as soon as plague is suspected, even if the results of a blood culture are not available yet. The good news is that widely available antibiotics do work against plague, Brewer said. Antibiotic treatments can last 1014 days or for two days after a persons fever breaks. A patient may start with intravenous (IV) antibiotics first but switch to oral medications once they start feeling better. The key is to get the patient on these treatments as soon as possible, Brewer added. People who are treated early are likely to recover from the plague fully. Sometimes, close contacts of patients with pneumonic plague may be given preventative antibiotics. This is really a rare problem and not something that most people need to worry about, Brewer said. What This Means For You Your risk of contracting the plague is extremely low. If you live in a semi-rural or rural area in the western U.S., you can reduce your risk of plague by making your home rodent-proof. If you have pets that roam free in outdoor areas, apply preventive flea medications and don't allow them to sleep on your bed. Read the original article on Verywell Health. British-Israeli Kay Wilson (R) displays the Hebrew prayer tattoo on her wrist, made by tattoo artist Wassim Razzouk (L), a Palestinian Christian from Jerusalem's Old City, as part of an initiative to use art to heal both mental and physical wounds. MENAHEM KAHANA/AFP via Getty Images The painted wooden sign fixed above the shop reads in blue, "Razzouk Tattoo, Tattoo With Heritage Since 1300." For more than 720 years (and 27 generations), Wassim Razzouk's family has continued the ancient art of tattooing using woodblocks to stamp the design before putting ink to skin, and today customers and religious pilgrims wait in hours-long lines to receive a tattoo from the world's oldest tattooing family. The business is the longest-running tattoo shop in the world, so says the 2022 Guinness World Records entry framed and proudly displayed in Razzouk's busy tattoo parlor, located in Jerusalem's Old City. History of Razzouk Tattoo According to the company's website, the Razzouk family left Egypt 500 years ago for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and stayed for the business. Razzouk's ancestors were Coptic Christians, an ethnoreligious community in Egypt. Tattoos were common in their tradition, often in the form of the Coptic cross. For Coptic Christians, it was a permanent display of their faith. In some cases, the tattoo was a bold-faced rebellion against the Islamic ruling power after 640 C.E. that actively forced conversions. Christians who did not convert to Islam were tattooed with the cross and required to pay a religious tax. At the same time, Christian churches would often check for the cross before letting patrons into their church to ensure they were true followers of the Christian faith. This is how the Razzouks' family tattooing tradition began, in 1300 tattooing other Copts. They brought the custom with them from Egypt, realizing that a tattooing culture already existed in Jerusalem. Many pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land wished to receive permanently inked crosses and other religious motifs to mark the importance of their pilgrimage before going home. "I have tattooed Christians, Palestinians, Ethiopians, Israelis believe it or not, I've tattooed an Orthodox Jew with sidelocks," said Wassim Razzouk, in a 2022 interview with The New York Times. "I've tattooed nuns, atheists and bishops." Razzouk said he was taught the art of tattooing by his father, who was taught by his father, Yaqoub. Razzouk's grandfather was the first tattoo artist in Israel to use an electric tattoo machine powered by a car battery and the first to add color to tattoos. Razzouk was 33 years old when he learned the art in 2007 during a busy Easter season. No relative in his generation had taken up the craft. "I knew that if it wasn't for me the tradition would disappear," he said. He tattooed his first clients 25 pilgrims in a single session. Woodblocks: The Original Tattoo Flash Unlike the hand-drawn stencils popular in tattooing in the U.S., Razzouk often uses woodblocks, hundreds of hand-carved wooden stamps that have been in his family for generations. Painted lightly in ink, the woodblocks are pressed against a person's skin, then Razzouk uses the stamp as a guide for many traditional tattoo designs. With the block, he can repeat the same tattoo again and again like an ancient tattoo flash. Some of the most popular woodblock tattoo designs, like the Jerusalem cross, date back to the First Crusade in 1096. A glass case in the shop displays dozens of woodblocks that customers can choose from. Razzouk also has a two-book collection of traditional tattoo designs for customers, including different configurations of crosses, Arabic calligraphy, and illustrations of symbolic biblical events like the crucifixion and religious figures like the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe. The oldest stamps he has belong to two woodblocks called "The Ascension," carved depictions of the moment Christians believe Jesus ascended into heaven after his resurrection. The stamps are 500 years old. The tattoo shop has evolved over the centuries, incorporating more modern methods and tools to complement traditional woodblock tattoo art. In 2022, Razzouk opened a new parlor in West Jerusalem, catering primarily to locals wanting more modern and sometimes film-inspired tattoo art, separate from the other location that primarily serves pilgrims looking to commemorate their experience. Traditionally Islam and Judaism forbid tattooing, but Razzouk told The New York Times that it had become popular among younger Jewish Israelis and Muslims. The family legacy continues as Razzouk trains his two sons, Nizar and Anton, in the art of tattooing. Thanks to his contributions to modernize the shop and teach the 28th generation of Razzouk tattooists, Razzouk said the craft "will hopefully remain in the family for many centuries to come." Now That's Cool Tattoos are also part of the healing process for many survivors of terrorism and violence. Since 2016, Razzouk has participated in Healing Ink, a project that gives survivors of terrorist attacks and injured Israeli soldiers free tattoos to cover their scars. Original article: The World's Oldest Tattoo Shop Has Been in Business Since 1300 Copyright 2024 HowStuffWorks, a division of InfoSpace Holdings, LLC, a System1 Company People survey the scene in Kansas City after a Feb. 14 shooting following the NFL Super Bowl LVIII Victory Parade for the Kansas City Chiefs. Photo by Dave Kaup/EPA-EFE Feb. 20 (UPI) -- Authorities on Tuesday said two men have been charged in connection to the recent fatal shooting at a Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade. Jackson County, Mo., Prosecutor Jean Peters Bakers' office said Dominic Miller, of Kansas City, Mo., and Lyndell Mays of Raytown, Mo., will face murder and other felony charges in connection with the shooting death of Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a mother and a popular local disc jockey who police said was killed by Miller's gun during Wednesday's incident. The two men face murder charges of the second degree and two counts of armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. The charges are the latest in relation to the shooting that injured 39 bystanders, 23 of whom suffered gunshot wounds, according to Kansas City Star. Mays and Miller -- both now held on a $1 million bond -- attended the festivities following the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory on February 14, and were both armed with guns when a "verbal altercation occurred and gunfire broke out with no regard for thousands of other individuals in the area," according to the county prosecutors office. "We seek to hold every shooter accountable for their actions," Baker said at Tuesday's press conference. Supporters during the NFL Super Bowl LVIII Victory Parade for the Chiefs in downtown Kansas City, Missouri on Feb. 14. The Jackson County Prosecutor announced Tuesday that additional charges were being brought against two men in connection with the shooting that day. Photo by Dave Kaup/UPI On Friday, prosecutors announced that two juveniles had been charged with multiple offenses in relation to the incident. Both underage suspects are being held in a juvenile detention center and have been charged with firearms offenses and resisting arrest. Lisa Lopez-Galvan, radio host of "Taste of Tejano," in Kansas City, was shot and killed during the Super Bowl celebration for the Kansas City Chiefs in Union Station on Wednesday. She worked for radio station KKFI, was the only person killed with dozens of others being injured. Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves says three people had been detained as part of the investigation. Photo by KKFI/UPI The shooting happened near the end of a Super Bowl victory parade by the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs, who were celebrating their victory over the San Francisco 49ers. The Alabama Supreme Court ruling granting legal personhood to frozen embryos could set up a political and legal backlash against conservatives heading into the November election. The decision not only threatens GOP efforts to court suburban women and other constituencies uneasy about abortion bans, but also complicates the partys standing with millions of people who may oppose abortion but support and in many cases use in-vitro fertilization and other forms of fertility care. The ruling also demonstrates how the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade has made previously theoretical policy and legal battles over the most intimate aspects of American life far more immediate and high-stakes. GOP strategists warn that pursuing curbs on those treatments risks exacerbating the backlash that has cost Republicans several races since the fall of Roe. One in six Americans who struggle with infertility millions of people each year turn to IVF, according to the National Infertility Association. It certainly intersects, badly, with general election politics for Republicans, said Stan Barnes, a political consultant and former Republican state senator in Arizona. When a state, any state, takes an aggressive action on this particular topic, people are once again made aware of it and many think: Maybe I can't support a Republican in the general election. He added that even if other states dont follow Alabamas lead, the court ruling gives GOP candidates running this year another hot potato to deal with forcing them to answer questions on abortion they would rather avoid heading into the fall election. Many Republican candidates, including former President Donald Trump, have tried to convince voters that they favor a middle ground that leaves some abortion access in place but imposes enough restrictions to appease anti-abortion groups. But the Alabama case places the focus on the goals of hardline conservatives, who seek not only to eliminate abortion access but also curtail some forms of contraception and fertility care. That the case has the potential to upend the GOP conversation about abortion and fetal personhood in the presidential race became apparent on Wednesday, when presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who has chided her party for being too judgmental of women who have abortions, embraced the Alabama decision. Embryos, to me, are babies, Haley, who has spoken openly of her decision to use artificial insemination to conceive, told NBC News in an interview. Some anti-abortion and religious groups have long called for restrictions on IVF. But, until now, the view that discarding excess embryos is akin to abortion has remained on the margins of conservative circles. Several prominent GOP officials including former Vice President Mike Pence have discussed using IVF to grow their own families, and Republican state officials have taken pains to assure voters that abortion bans that took effect after Roe v. Wade was overturned wouldnt impact access to IVF. Kellyanne Conway, the former senior counselor and campaign manager for President Donald Trump, went to Capitol Hill in December to share the result of a poll her firm KA Consulting conducted that found overwhelming support for IVF including among people who identify as pro-life and Evangelical. The survey found that 86 percent of all respondents supported access to IVF, with 78 percent support among self-identified pro-life advocates and 83 percent among Evangelical Christians. Candidates for Congress and certainly those already serving there can bank significant political currency by advocating for increased access to and availability of contraception and fertility treatments, Conways team stressed in a memo to lawmakers, adding that almost no policies garner that level of support across the political spectrum. Legal experts also say the Alabama ruling, which criminalizes the destruction of embryos under the states Wrongful Death of a Minor law and has already led to one major hospital system ending all IVF services, may violate both state and federal religious freedom laws and could be vulnerable to lawsuits. Jews, Unitarians and other people of faith in several states have challenged strict abortion bans as an infringement on their religious rights arguing that the laws blur the line between church and state and illegally impose a Christian interpretation of when life begins on the general population. In Kentucky, a group of Jewish women who want to use IVF but fear prosecution under the states abortion ban sued in 2022 under the states Religious Freedom Restoration Act. They argued that Jewish doctrine holds that life doesnt begin until a child takes its first breath clashing with the states assertion that life begins at conception, and that Judaism permits, and in some cases requires, an abortion when there are pregnancy complications. Aaron Kemper, one of the lead lawyers in that case, pending before a Kentucky state court, said the Alabama ruling demonstrates why his clients are credibly afraid and have standing to sue. The decision is basically confirming what weve been saying the whole time that when a state defines a fertilized embryo as a human being, that leads to a bunch of terrible things, he said. We were trying to get ahead of it and show why these laws are unconstitutional before IVF is completely taken away. Kemper acknowledged that the Alabama Supreme Court decision does not directly outlaw the discarding of nonviable or excess embryos that is a routine practice in IVF, but he and others said it opens the door to such a ban by defining the stored embryos as extrauterine children. This was about accidental destruction of embryos, he said. But its not a large leap of logic to think that someone could also be prosecuted for purposeful destruction. The Alabama decision is poised to have ripple effects around the country, and one anti-abortion group has already referenced it in a legal brief urging the Florida Supreme Court to block a proposed abortion rights amendment from going on the November ballot. It may also sway the outcome of the Kentucky lawsuit by undermining the states attempt to have the case thrown out. In the Kentucky case, state officials argued that these plaintiffs were being histrionic about their risk. But this shows that such laws very much do threaten the ability to create a family in this way, said Dr. Christine Ryan, the associate director of reproductive rights at Columbia Law School. This really shows whats at stake for the plaintiffs in that case that their fears that they won't be able to create their families in the way they need to are justified. The court ruling is also making waves in Alabama, where state lawmakers and conservative activists are trying to navigate the logistical and political challenges it created. "We've got five IVF clinics in Alabama. Right now, they all don't know what to do, said Eric Johnston, president of the Alabama Pro-Life Coalition and author of the state's 2019 near-total abortion ban. They're all afraid they're going to get sued by plaintiffs lawyers. Something has to be done pretty quickly." But while legal scholars told POLITICO that theres the potential to challenge the Alabama decision itself for violating religious liberty protections in multiple ways, they cautioned that the same court that just ruled for embryonic personhood isnt likely to agree. If someone is trying to have children for religious reasons and they need IVF to do so, they could argue that this ruling substantially burdens the free exercise of their religious practice, said Micah Schwartzman, director of the Karsh Center for Law and Democracy at the University of Virginia Law School. The question is whether Alabama courts that just rendered a decision this aggressive would grant someone that kind of a religious exemption, considering its view that an embryo is a person. And I would expect that court to be quite skeptical of such a challenge given what its already said. Schwartzman and other experts who spoke to POLITICO also pointed to the religious language sprinkled throughout a concurring opinion by the Alabama Supreme Courts chief justice, Tom Parker, as grounds for a potential challenge under the Establishment Clause, which mandates the separation of church and state. Parker repeatedly quoted the Bible in his opinion and asserted: Even before birth, all human beings bear the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory. But Nelson Tebbe, a professor at Cornell Law School, said despite the crazy religious language in the concurring opinion, that type of challenge is even more of a longshot. This is just a concurrence that no other justice joined, and thats not the same thing as state legislators being motivated by religion when they write a law banning abortion, he said. Megan Messerly contributed to this report. Jakov Milatovic, President of Montenegro, has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Mr. President, Allow me, on behalf of the citizens of Montenegro and in my own name, to extend sincere congratulations on the victory in the recent presidential elections, with best wishes for the continued progress of your country and the prosperity of its citizens. I am convinced that we will continue to improve our friendly and substantive relations in mutual interest, both within the bilateral, regional, and global frameworks. I am ready to make a personal contribution to intensifying communication and strengthening cooperation, primarily in the fields of economy, tourism, and energy. I look forward to your country's continued success with the hope that we will continue to build the best possible relations. Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration and cordial greetings. Jakov Milatovic President of Montenegro" (Bloomberg) -- Boaz Weinstein is building up positions across UK investment trusts that now account for about a quarter of his $5.4 billion bet on closed-end funds trading near historic discounts. Most Read from Bloomberg Saba Capital Management started running a fund focused on UK trusts late last year and has re-opened an office in London after its last one was shuttered in 2017, according to a person familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named as the details are private. The hedge fund has invested in 36 UK trusts either through direct holdings or swaps, according to the latest filings compiled by Bloomberg. His targets include funds managed by JPMorgan Asset Management, BlackRock Inc., Schroders Plc and Baillie Gifford. In the UK, its really an opportunity because theres better governance, Weinstein said in an interview in London, pointing out the stronger rights of shareholders to call meetings and vote their shares. Its highly unusual for the discounts to be this big. Share prices in closed-end trusts sank last year as a series of interest-rate hikes ripped through global markets and made it harder for trusts to beat the yields available on risk-free assets. Managing about 267 billion, the trust industry in Britain is among the worlds largest, and the average discount widened to 16.7% in October, the most since the global financial crisis. The discount has since narrowed to 9.5% last month, according to data from the Association of Investment Companies. Pushing Discounts Weinstein a veteran derivatives trader known for bringing down the London Whale is already waging a campaign to close discounts at US firms, last year winning legal cases against BlackRock and Nuveen. Story continues In the UK, hes mounted an activist campaign against Alexander Darwalls 600 million European Opportunities Trust, which was a longtime investor in failed payments firm Wirecard AG and held Grifols SA, a medical company targeted by short-seller Gotham City, as of the latest filings. By their own benchmark, not mine, they have so massively underperformed they have cost their shareholders hundreds of basis points a year, Weinstein said. It will within months be at a bigger discount thats our prediction. Devon Equity Management, which runs EOT, declined to comment. The fund has beat the MSCI Europe Index by about 7% over the past year, paring its five-year underperformance to 27%. Weinsteins criticism of EOT echoes his broader gripes against the industry about high fees and managers not doing enough to close discounts. Unlike open-ended funds, trusts raise cash by issuing shares, which then trade on an exchange. Since the trusts dont have to directly fund redemptions, they can take a long-term view and invest in less liquid assets such as music royalties or small-cap companies. Managers, overseen by a board of directors, can close discounts by buying back shares, converting into an open-ended structure or, in the most extreme cases, liquidating the fund. In the case of EOT, Saba started building up a stake to agitate for liquidation around late-2023, when the trust was trading at about a 10% discount. Saba failed to garner enough shareholder votes for its plan, but the trust then offered to buy back some shares at a value above its current share price. In recent sessions, Saba has lowered its stake in EOT, while adding to its holdings in the 1.2 billion Herald Investment Trust, filings show. While Weinsteins campaign so far has focused on trusts investing in liquid stocks and bonds, he says the Hipgnosis Song Fund, which owns the music royalty rights from the likes of Red Hot Chili Peppers and 50 Cent, looks interesting. The trust, whose manager has a partnership with Blackstone, is trading at 54% below its last reported asset value. Weinstein accepts theres a reason for the closed-end fund structure to exist, and thinks the majority is well run except in cases where the board is too beholden to management. If you look at what has happened to asset management, fees over the last 20 years have come down a lot, he said. So the fees are a little high and the governance is bad because they are in some cases greedy. --With assistance from Yiqin Shen. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Get The State Worker Bee newsletter in your inbox every Wednesday This is a preview of our weekly state worker newsletter. Subscribers receive more exclusive tidbits like this one, as well as a weekly roundup of all our state worker coverage. Sign up using the form linked here, or by emailing mmiller@sacbee.com. Confused about when and whether youre supposed to come back to the office? Youre not the only one. Workers at several California state agencies and departments have recently received notices of impending plans to bring them back to the office at least two days per week. Theyll join the handful of departments that already require their employees to report to the office Unsurprisingly, most state employees are unhappy about the decision. But even more frustrating for employees has been the lack of specific guidance about when theyre expected to have butts in seats back in the office. Some state employees have even received information from their department that conflicts directly with the original notice put out by their agency secretary last month, as well as statements from the governors office. This is a statewide policy impacting all agencies/departments under the Newsom Administration, read a Feb. 12 email from Dr. Tomas Aragon, director of the California Department of Public Health, to all departmental staff. Newsoms office has repeatedly denied the existence of any formal mandate or directive that employees return to their offices two days per week. Instead, Gov. Gavin Newsoms office insists that departments and agencies were instructed to regularly evaluate and update their telework policies based on their individual needs. Our office believes there is significant value from in-person work that should be considered along with the benefits of telework, said Erin Mellon, the governors communications director, in a statement. Mellon declined to comment on why the CDPH memo included language that sounded as though the Newsom administration had issued a statewide in-office mandate. Aragons message also included details for when and how the department would shift back to part-time in-person work. The proposed timetable? Twelve months. In his January memo to staff, Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency (and Aragons boss), said the two-day in-person return would start this March. Late Tuesday afternoon, Ghaly resent the memo along with a reminder that, As noted, our goal is to start significant implementation next month. The proposed CDPH return plan would bring supervisors and managers only back to the office from March 4 through May 31. Then, from June 1 to Aug. 31, staff living within 50 miles of a departmental headquarters would need to report to work in-person. Finally, from Sept. 1 through Dec. 31, all non-exempt staff would be back in the office two days per week. We recognize this is a big change and change is hard, Aragons message to CDPH staff read. We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach may not fully address the diverse needs and circumstances of our team members. We recognize we wont get it 100% right on the first try. The conflicting messages might even force Newsoms administration to issue an official mandate, or at least guidelines, to avoid further confusion a surely controversial move that the governors office has yet to publicly announce. Want state worker news in your inbox? Sign up for our weekly newsletter using the module below or by emailing mmiller@sacbee.com. Hundreds of Ukrainian troops may have been captured by advancing Russian units or disappeared during Ukraines chaotic retreat from the eastern city of Avdiivka, according to senior Western officials and soldiers fighting for Ukraine, a devastating loss that could deal a blow to already weakening morale. The Russian capture of Avdiivka has emerged as a significant symbolic loss for Ukrainian troops, a sign of the battlefield impact of the failure of the U.S. Congress, so far, to approve more military assistance as dwindling supplies of artillery shells make it even harder to hold the line. Estimates of how many Ukrainians were captured or missing vary, and a precise count may not be possible until Ukraine solidifies new defensive lines outside the city. But two soldiers with knowledge of Ukraines retreat estimated that 850 to 1,000 soldiers appear to have been captured or are unaccounted for. The Western officials said that range seemed accurate. Sign up for The Morning newsletter from the New York Times U.S. officials say the loss of Avdiivka is not a significant strategic setback, arguing that Russian gains in eastern Ukraine will not necessarily lead to any collapse of Ukrainian lines and that Moscow is unlikely to be able to follow up with another major offensive. But the capture of hundreds of soldiers could change that calculus. U.S. officials have said in recent days that morale was already eroding among Ukrainian troops, in the wake of a failed counteroffensive last year and the removal of a top commander. Because of those problems, the officials said, Ukraines military has struggled with recruitment. Ukrainian military officials have said they want to mobilize up to 500,000 more people, but the request has met political resistance and is stalled in parliament. The capture of hundreds of soldiers, especially those with battlefield experience, would make the need for more troops more acute and complicate the effort to recruit more. As a result, the fall of Avdiivka may be more important than it initially seemed. The Ukrainian military command has acknowledged that some soldiers were captured in the retreat from Avdiivka but has tried to downplay the numbers and the significance. On Saturday, Gen. Oleksandr Tarnavsky, the commander of Ukraines military fighting in the area, said on the Telegram messaging application that the retreat had gone according to plan but at the final stage of the operation, under pressure from the superior forces of the enemy, some Ukrainian servicemen fell into captivity. He did not disclose how many troops were captured. A senior Ukrainian official insisted that only six soldiers had been taken prisoner in the retreat from the city. Those soldiers, from the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, were captured after they ran out of ammunition and lost communication with the Ukrainian military, the official said. But some soldiers and Western officials said a failure to execute an orderly withdrawal, and the chaos that unfolded Friday and Saturday as the defenses collapsed, were directly responsible for what appears to be a significant number of soldiers captured. They said the Ukrainian withdrawal was ill-planned and began too late. The soldiers and Western officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence assessments that are at odds with Ukrainian government statements. Retreating under withering artillery fire, drones and airstrikes is one of the most difficult military maneuvers, challenging commanders to minimize loss of life and allow units to fall back without ceding more land than intended. Based on interviews with soldiers, Ukraines forces were unprepared for how quickly the Russian advance in Avdiivka gathered speed last week. Ukraine tried to buy time for its regular infantry forces to pull back, out of the city, using its special operation forces and the elite 3rd Separate Assault Brigade to cover the retreat. But the units could not slow the Russian advance or get every Ukrainian soldier out. Senior Ukrainian officials say the Russian forces also suffered heavy losses in the battle. Russia took Avdiivka by sheer mass, sending in troops and armored vehicles until Ukrainian defenses folded. Thousands of Russia soldiers were killed and wounded, the officials said. A chaotic retreat is not inevitable. Withdrawing troops without taking heavy losses is difficult but possible, if it is done in a deliberate, unrushed operation, according to American strategists. In Avdiivka, Ukraine appeared to have waited too long to start withdrawing, and the frantic retreat quickly turned costly. For the Ukrainians, the challenge of pulling out of Avdiivka was compounded by the fact Russia had surrounded the city on nearly three sides. A single paved road was the most viable way into and out of the city. That route, which Ukrainian troops nicknamed the road of life, came under direct threat earlier this month, making the withdrawal far more dangerous. When Ukrainian forces began pulling back, unverified open source videos and photos showed units retreating under artillery fire and bodies scattered along roads and in tree lines. Ukrainian military units have long struggled to communicate with one another because they often have different radio equipment. Soldiers with knowledge of the retreat said the communication problems were a factor in the withdrawal, leading to soldiers being captured, killed and wounded. The soldiers interviewed by The New York Times suggested that some units pulled back before others were aware of the retreat. That put the units left behind at risk of encirclement by the Russians. Since the war began nearly two years ago, Russian forces have tried to encircle and capture Ukrainian forces. While well-prepared defenses and overhead drones have prevented many of those maneuvers from succeeding, in Avdiivka, the Russian encirclement appears to have worked. Western officials suggest the maneuver was one reason soldiers were captured during the retreat. Unverified videos posted to social media also showed Russian forces executing Ukrainian troops in and around Avdiivka. On Sunday, the prosecutors office in Ukraines eastern Donetsk oblast said on Telegram it was launching an investigation into into the shootings of unarmed Ukrainian prisoners of war in Avdiivka and Vesele. The Kremlin itself does not appear to have been prepared for the speed of the Ukrainian collapse in Avdiivka. Often, Kremlin propaganda pushed through the state-controlled news media leads the themes on Russian social media, said Jonathan Teubner, the CEO of FilterLabs AI, which studies Russian messaging and public opinion. But as the Ukrainian defense in Avdiivka collapsed, the discussions on Russian social media started shifting before the Kremlin settled on new messaging. Russia wasnt really prepped for this, either, in terms of a prepared propaganda blitz, Teubner said. They have now pounced on it but havent managed to launch a successful coordinated messaging campaign yet. Prisoners of war are one of the biggest challenges to morale in any war. Ukraine has pressed Russia repeatedly to agree to exchange prisoners. As of November, the Ukrainian government said that Russia had 3,574 Ukrainian military personnel in captivity. In January, Ukraine used a Western-provided Patriot missile to take down a Russian cargo plane that officials thought was carrying missiles and munitions. Russian officials said it was transporting Ukrainian prisoners of war. U.S. officials have said it appeared probable that some Ukrainian prisoners were on the plane. c.2024 The New York Times Company Chick-fil-A and Wawa have been named as part of a commercial development plan along Lebanon Road in Mt. Juliet that will be considered for approval by city commissioners. Greenhill Road Commercial is the working name of the Planned Unit Development proposal that has received a positive recommendation from Mt. Juliet's planning commission, but the recommendation comes with a number of conditions, including multiple traffic concerns that must be resolved. Chick-fil-A and Wawa are under contract with the development, pending city approvals, City Commissioner Ray Justice said. Chick-fil-A at Mt. Juliet's Providence Marketplace. Another Chick-fil-A is part of a development plan on Mt. Juliet's north side. Both businesses were previously named in February's planning commission meeting as possibilities for the development, which sits on a little more than 8 acres on the north side of Lebanon Road between North Greenhill and Old North Greenhill Roads. "There are some pieces I prefer were changed, but at its inception, it's nice and something that can make my district look really good," Justice said. Green Hill High School is on North Greenhill Road at Lebanon Road, just northeast of the development site. The Planned Unit Development still requires a completed traffic study, according to planning commission discussion. The Tennessee Department of Transportation will also need to review access points off Lebanon Road prior to a second reading by city commissioners. The impact on school traffic and the potential for increased pedestrian traffic were also part of the planning commission discussion. Green Hill High has "quite a few students who walk across Lebanon Road at dismissal," Principal Kevin Dawson said. But he wasn't sure how many of those students are middle schoolers who are temporarily attending Green Hill High because of the 2020 tornado. Middle school students likely won't be attending Green Hill by the time the development is built if ultimately approved. The section of Lebanon Road just east of the high school also has a school zone for W.A. Wright Elementary. The developers and the city want to make sure is traffic is of utmost concern, and we are ahead of the curve," Justice said. "I dont want to see the same mistakes that were made in south Mt. Juliet. The plan presently proposes six buildings. Office space, restaurant, bank and retail uses are among other possible uses, according to the plan. Mt. Juliet has one Chick-fil-A open on the city's south side in the Providence Marketplace area. Wawa will open 60 stores in Indiana over the next eight to 10 years. Wawa, known for made-to-order hoagies, Sizzli breakfast sandwiches and a signature brand coffee, is an established brand in eastern portions of the U.S. The chain has submitted several site plans in Middle Tennessee, including Lebanon. City commissioners will ultimately have to approve the Planned Unit Development with two passing votes. If it passes first reading, the planning commission will get another review prior to second reading, when a traffic study is completed. Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Chick-fil-A, Wawa in works for new Middle Tennessee development Senator Tim Scott and Donald Trump were all smiles during a Fox News town hall event on Tuesday night - Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg Donald Trump has said he is considering Tim Scott, the South Carolina senator, as a potential running mate because he doesnt like talking about himself. The former president added that Mr Scott, who has campaigned on his behalf after dropping out of the Republican primaries, had been much better for me than he was for himself. Speaking at a Fox News town hall event on Tuesday evening, Mr Trump also claimed that whoever he picked would make no difference to the election in November. Asked by host Laura Ingraham about his prospective vice president, he gestured to the audience where the South Carolina senator was sitting. A lot of people are talking about that gentleman right over there, the former president said, as Mr Scott grinned and laughed. He continued: Hes been such a great advocate. I have to say this is in a very positive way Tim Scott, he has been much better for me than he was for himself. I watched this campaign and he doesnt like talking about himself, but boy, does he talk about Trump? Mr Trump brought up the senator unprompted at another point in the interview as he claimed that a $355 million (281 million) fine imposed on him by a New York court in a fraud case was the most egregious punishment anyones ever seen. He then added: Tim Scott knows that. He sees it. Humble request The former president said he was also considering Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, Florida Rep. Byron Donalds, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as potential running mates. The one thing that always surprises me is that the VP choice has absolutely no impact, he added. Its whoever the president is, it just seems. Mr Trump has spent months stoking speculation about potential running mates, claiming in January to have already made his choice. On Tuesday, he humbly asked supporters to send in their thoughts while donating to his campaign. He has yet to clinch the Republican nomination for president, but polls show him well ahead of Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor, before her home state votes on Feb 24. Mr Trump said he was winning bigly in the Palmetto State and claimed she had lost in record numbers in the previous Iowa and New Hampshire contests. Mr Scott, who campaigned on Christian conservative values, suspended his presidential run in November before a single vote was cast. In a blow to Ms Haley, who as South Carolina governor had nominated him to the US Senate, he endorsed Mr Trump just days before the New Hampshire primary in January. He later declared his love for the Republic frontrunner as he appeared with Mr Ramaswamy, another defeated primary rival, at his victory rally in the state. Mr Scott once said the former presidents comments about the Charlottesville white supremacist march in 2017 were indefensible and that his moral authority had been compromised. 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. Red wolves once spanned almost all of the eastern United States, ranging as far north as Pennsylvania and as far west as Texas. Now, the population is significantly diminished, and work is underway to try to restore the species. Here are some key facts to know about this wolf, which can only be found in the wild in North Carolina. How many red wolves are there? Right now, there are 18 known red wolves in the wild and an estimated 20 to 22 total, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Another 263 live in captivity. Where do red wolves live? The wild population of red wolves lives in a five-county region in northeastern North Carolina, with packs living at both the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Captive wolves in North Carolina can be found at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, which has two wolves; the N.C. Zoo in Asheboro, which has more than two dozen wolves; and at the Red Wolf Center on Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in Columbia, which has a pair of wolves. How big are red wolves? A red wolf stands about 2-feet high and is about 4-and-a-half feet long, according to the N.C. Zoo. Red wolves are smaller than their cousins, the gray wolves. A coyote stands about the same height but is often a little shorter, typically 3.3 to 4.3 feet long. The similarities between the creatures are part of why conservationists believe red wolves are susceptible to gunshots someone who is shooting a canine, particularly when visibility is low, cant be sure which species theyre firing at. Red wolves also have pointed ears and long legs with narrow feet, according to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, while coyotes have longer muzzles. If you are in the five-county range where red wolves can be found (Beaufort, Dare, Hyde, Tyrrell and Washington), you need a permit to hunt coyotes and can only shoot them during the daytime. You also must report any coyote you kill within 24 hours, as well as any red wolf you accidentally shoot. How long do red wolves live? On average, a red wolf lives six years, according to the N.C. Zoo. The oldest known red wolf on record died of natural causes last year at Alligator River. She was 14 years old. How often do red wolves breed? Red wolves breed once a year, in February, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They give birth about 60 days later, typically to three to six pups. Those pups will join the pack for a time before striking out on their own when they are between 1 and 2 years old to form their own packs. What do red wolves eat? Red wolves favorite food includes white-tailed deer, raccoons and some smaller species like rabbits, rodents and nutria, according to the FWS. Red wolves eat two to five pounds a day. They can travel about 20 miles a day in their efforts to find food. How do red wolves die? In the wild, wolves are most often killed when they are hit by a car or shot. Since July 1, 2023, there have been at least six wild red wolf deaths at Alligator River. Of those, two wolves were hit by cars, at least one was shot, two more are the subject of what the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service calls open law enforcement investigations and another is awaiting a necropsy to determine the cause of death. This story was produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and Green South Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work. If you would like to help support local journalism, please consider signing up for a digital subscription, which you can do here. Former CNN political analyst and anchor John Avlon announced on Wednesday that he is running for Congress in New Yorks First Congressional District after departing the network earlier this month. In a video posted on social media declaring his candidacy, Avlon sounded the alarm on the state of the U.S. democracy. Right now, our democracys in danger, he said. This election is not a drill. Its up to all of us to step up and get off the sidelines. Avlon added that Democrats cant afford to lose this fight and need to unite to fight back against Trump and his supporters on Capitol Hill. Theres just too much at stake for the country and the community that I love, Avlon said. We need to build the broadest possible coalition to defeat Donald Trump, defend our democracy, and win back the House from his MAGA minions who dont even seem interested in solving problems anymore. Together, we can flip this seat. It's official: I'm running for Congress in #NY01 because there's too much at stake for the country & community I love. Long Island families deserve someone who fights for their values, not Trump's. It's time for us all to get off the sidelines. Join Me. https://t.co/fMu8RdLyBLpic.twitter.com/RHWAam8yif John Avlon (@JohnAvlon) February 21, 2024 Avlon is seeking to unseat freshman Republican incumbent Rep. Nick LaLota who won the 2022 election by 11 percentage points. LaLota has already endorsed Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race. LaLotas seat was previously held by former Rep. Lee Zeldin (R). I endorse President Trump to be our 47th President and look forward to him cleaning up the mess at the border, overseas and with high prices that President Biden created. Full statement pic.twitter.com/12oJI5cbQT Nick LaLota (@nicklalota) January 21, 2024 Avlon joins a crowded Democratic primary where six candidates have already joined the race in the swing district, including Craig Herskowitz, a New York City administrative law judge who served as assistant counsel to former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, former state Sen. Jim Gaughran, and chemist Nancy Goroff, who lost to Zeldin in 2020. Avlon has been getting advice from months from former Rep. Steve Israel (D) who retired in 2017, according to Politico Playbook. Avlon left CNN on Feb. 8 but did not disclose his plans to run for office at the time despite reporting of his intention do so by Puck. He previously served as the editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast from 2013 to 2018. Early in his career, Avlon was the chief speechwriter of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. He is also a co-founder of the No Labels centrist political movement. Avlon is married to conservative commentator Margaret Hoover, who hosts the Firing Line on PBS. The couple has two children. Related... The nations first hate crime trial for a gender-based murder began Tuesday in Columbia. Dime Doe, a transgender woman, was found dead in her car off a country road in Allendale, South Carolina, around 6 p.m. on Aug. 4, 2019. She had been shot three times in the head from close range. Just hours earlier, Doe had been stopped for speeding. In drizzling rain, an Allendale sheriffs deputy who knew Doe recorded himself on body camera giving Doe a speeding ticket. She texted her mom, Im alright. Just a $72 ticket. It was the last time anyone heard from her. Sitting in the reclined passenger seat, his face hidden from the deputys body camera, was the man that federal prosecutors say killed her: Daqua Ritter. While not blood relatives, family members of Ritter and Doe were dating, and the two called each other cousins. They attended school together at Does suggestion, according to filings, and when Ritter got into a serious car wreck, Doe helped him get a lawyer who won him a settlement, according to court filings. But in 2023, Ritter was charged with one count of bias-motivated murder, one count of possession of a deadly weapon during a crime and one count of obstruction of justice. The case, which is before federal Judge Sherri Lydon, is being prosecuted by 1st Assistant U.S. Attorney Brook Andrews and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Garner and Elle Klein from the U.S. Attorneys Office for South Carolina. They are joined by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Mann from the Department of Justices Civil Rights Division. Ritter appeared in court Tuesday wearing leg irons, but no handcuffs, dressed in a black sweater over a blue collared shirt and tie. He was accompanied by his attorneys Lindsey Vann and Joshua Kendrick. Prosecutors have said that Ritter was in a secret, sexual relationship with Doe and was driven to kill her by shamebecause he had been exposed for having a homosexual relationship. Ritter was motivated by the deep-seated fear of the judgment and ridicule he would experience, Garner said in opening statements. Federal prosecutors have alleged that Ritter lured Doe to a meetup using a messaging app on his friend Xavier Pinckneys cellphone. After Doe picked up Ritter, he shot her three times and left her car on Concord School Road in a rural, wooded area with no businesses or homes nearby, prosecutors say. They have placed Does death between 3:34 and 4:40 p.m. Ritter then walked to his uncles house and asked for a ride back to town. Witnesses allegedly saw him burn his clothes later that night, prosecutors say. Ritters actions that day were as deliberate as they were deadly, Garner said. The unique nature of the case meant that the jurors and alternates, comprising eleven women and three men, were asked about their potential opinions and biases towards transgender and homosexual people. On Tuesday, defense attorneys stayed away from Does gender identity. While federal hate crime laws have previously been used in the prosecution of crimes on the basis of gender identity, Ritters case is the first time that a murder on the basis of gender identity has been tried in federal court. Previous cases, including one against Joshua Brandon Vallum of Mississippi who murdered a transgender woman he once dated, have all ended in pleas. While being found guilty of a federal hate crime can enhance the sentence of certain crimes, including attempted murder, under federal sentencing guidelines, first degree murder is already punishable by the death penalty or life in prison. Prosecutors in this case have said they are not seeking the death penalty. South Carolina has no state hate crimes laws. For their part, defense attorneys have sought to cast the case as a whodunnit, full of unbelievable and un-credible witnesses. The question is not why he killed her, it is if he killed her, said defense attorney Vann in her opening statement, and the answer is no. Instead, defense attorneys have argued that the insular culture of rumor, gossip and suspicion of law enforcement in the town of Allendale, with a population of roughly 2,600, led suspicion to fall on Ritter, a relative outsider who grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and only stayed in the town in the summer when visiting with his grandmother. On the stand, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Agent Lawrence Wiggins, now the chief of police for the town of Allendale, the county seat, said that Ritter first came to investigators attention when onlookers at the crime scene, which included members of Does family, suggested that Ritter might be involved in her death. But under cross examination from Ritters other defense attorney, Kendrick, Wiggins admitted there was a reluctance to talk to law enforcement in Allendale, and police had to talk to residents two or three times before theyll tell you the truth. In filings, defense attorneys said Ritter was unbothered by the rumors that the two were engaged in a sexual relationship. Wiggins, the fourth witness called Tuesday, said that suspicion about Ritter grew when they interviewed him at his grandmothers home that night. The former SLED agent said that tattoos and marks on Ritters wrists matched those of the passengers arms seen on the body cam footage of Does traffic stop. Without prompting, Ritter also told investigators that he had rushed home to let his people know he was ok, and then told them that he was leaving soon to return to New York. The address on his drivers license was from his uncles house, on Concord School Road, only half a mile from where Does body had been found. At this point I started to feel that he might be important to the case, Wiggins said. Rising to the level of a person of interest. In body cam footage from the interview, Ritter can be heard denying that he saw Doe at all that day before later changing his story to admit that he had seen her briefly in the company of another friend, Parris Lee. Lee was shot and killed at a gas station in July 2023. The killings are unrelated, according to law enforcement. But defense attorneys were quick to point out that despite his lying, Ritter was cooperative, writing out a statement and even agreeing to be tested for gunshot shot residue. During Ritters first interview with law enforcement, his grandmother handed him a Bible to swear on. If youre lying, youll be in trouble, she warned him. Whats next? So far the jury has heard evidence from first responders and the initial investigators. Jurors have seen footage of the crime scene, including Does body. As the pictures were revealed, some members of her family broke into sobs and left the courtroom. Central to the prosecutors case is a map of places they say Ritter visited the day of the murder, as well as locations he claimed he visited. Investigators also read texts from Does phone to a device they say belonged to Ritters friend Pinckney. The messages indicate that an unknown texter arranged to meet up with Doe through a messaging app. In October, Pinckney pleaded guilty to assisting Ritter the day of the murder and lying to federal agents about seeing Ritter or using his phone to call and text Doe on the day she was killed. One key witness is Delasia Green, Ritters former girlfriend. Green is currently being represented by Columbia attorney Victor K. Li after she was charged with trying to evade a law enforcement subpoena to testify. In a warrant for her detention, federal officers wrote that she hid from them in her home when they came to deliver the subpoena. Li said that she had been held in the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Richland County until last Thursday. In a flurry of filings in the lead up to the trial, prosecutors said they would not introduce any evidence of Ritters gang affiliations or criminal history. But prosecutors have also moved to limit any discussion of Does other relationships. Such evidence is likely to misdirect the jurors, inflame their passions, and cause jurors to decide the case on the basis of their emotional response to Does conduct or lifestyle, rather than on the basis of the evidence, prosecutors said in one filing. For their part, defense attorneys have argued that Does other relationships are central to their case. Doe was known for outing other men, threatened to out men and extorted them for money, and was in turn threatened by others, Ritters attorneys wrote. In court Tuesday, away from the jury, Kendrick indicated that he intended to argue that there was evidence of so-called third party guilt, meaning someone else could have been responsible for the crime. The case is scheduled to last ten days. Gov. Mike Parson plans to send as many as 200 Missouri National Guard members and 22 Missouri State High Patrol troopers to support Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission. Launched in March 2021, Operation Lone Star is a Texas initiative aimed at preventing illegal immigration at the nations southern border. Parson, who visited the border at Eagle Pass, Texas on Feb. 4, submitted a $2.3 million supplemental budget request to fund the operation. "The crisis at the Southern Border is fueling the fentanyl crisis here in our state, Parson said in a statement. Missourians are dying; families are being ripped apart; communities are being destroyed, and Missouri children are falling victim. It all stems from the Biden Administration's reckless, irresponsible, and failing open-border policies. With our Southern Border wide open, every state is now a border state." Gov. Mike Parson delivers his final State of the State address on Jan. 24, 2023. Through the recently issued Executive Order 24-03, Missouris National Guard troops will be dispersed on a rotating basis of about 30 days. The mission begins on March 10, with the primary objective for these troopers being the construction of physical barriers, with security patrols when needed. All members of the Missouri Highway Patrol who are participating in the effort are doing so on a voluntary basis. These troopers will begin active support on March 1, which includes helping with traffic enforcement, criminal interdiction, crime prevention and other duties. Our current operation plan activates this mission for 90 days, Parson said. However, we will continuously work with Texas to evaluate needed support moving forward. In December 2023, more than 302,000 border crossings were recorded just that month by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. In fiscal year 2023, more than 2 million encounters were recorded. Since 2021, nearly 10 million people have entered the U.S. illegally, though not all at the southern border. There were 27,000 pounds of fentanyl seized by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol in 2023, with 98.9% of that taken by authorities at the southern border. Some of this was confiscated at legal ports of entry, but the staggering amounts of the deadly drug entering the country is even more reason to send aid, according to Parson. Of course, where we have armed patrols, inspecting people and transports as well as legitimate barriers to entry, we're going to discover and seize items that should not be coming into our country, Parson said. It's actually quite an argument for the need to expand those procedures and secure our border. In 2023, the Missouri State Highway Patrol seized almost 12,500 grams of fentanyl. Fentanyl overdoses have increased by nearly 135% in Missouri since 2017. In 2022, 43 children in the state died from fentanyl exposure. The more illegal crossings we could stop and the fentanyl we can seize in Texas means less Missouri families torn apart and less Missouri children losing their lives, Parson said. More: Missouri lawmakers hope to crack down on illegal immigration but advocates raise concerns The Missouri Democratic Party issued a statement criticizing Parsons executive order, with Missouri Democratic Party Executive Director Matthew Patterson calling it political theater, and pointing out how Republicans in the U.S. Congress quickly denounced a bipartisan immigration reform package. Governor Parsons decision to double down his political theater at the southern border instead of urging his Republican colleagues in Congress to support the bipartisan border agreement is not surprising but is deeply shameful, Patterson said. Missouri Republicans have demonstrated time after time that they will always choose to play political games over doing their jobs no matter who is put at risk. Missouri State House Minority Whip Ashley Aune joined Patterson in these criticisms, expressing frustration with self-serving politicians playing political games, and urged Parson to encourage Republican legislators to focus on governing Missouri rather than scoring campaign points. The bipartisan bill that was blocked by Republicans in Congress would have addressed this crisis, but Missouri Republicans would rather send Missouri resources to another state than do their jobs, Aune said. To these politicians, our pain is their political strategy, and America will continue to feel the consequences of their dysfunction as long as it scores them political points. Parson, however, expected to receive criticism for sending resources to the southern border, acknowledging them preemptively in his announcement Tuesday afternoon. Critics will say we have our own battles within our own Missouri borders, Parson said. And while that is certainly true, we would much rather do what we can to fight this fight on the southern border than let it take root in our own backyard. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Gov. Mike Parson will send Missouri National Guard to Mexico border (Bloomberg) -- After California passed a law forcing digital platforms to adopt privacy guardrails and safety standards for young users, Carl Szabo had a blunt warning for legislators attending the nations biggest conference for state policymakers: The lawsuits are coming. Most Read from Bloomberg Over the past decade, Szabo and his colleagues have transformed NetChoice, their small, right-leaning lobby known for its brash tactics, into Silicon Valleys litigation powerhouse. With Meta Platforms Inc., TikTok Inc., and X Corp. among its members, the Washington-based trade associations won injunctions against laws regulating social media in five states. Sign up for The Brief, a daily afternoon newsletter showcasing Bloomberg Laws top stories. The US Supreme Court will hear challenges on Monday to the constitutionality of the Florida and Texas laws. Each was introduced by Republican legislators after social media platforms suspended accounts supporting the January 6 Capitol attack, and aimed to prevent companies from censoring posts. The spotlight reflects NetChoices outsized role in a free-speech debate thats drawn increasingly more political, legal, and governmental scrutiny, from state capitols to Congress. It doesnt publicly disclose how much money it receives from each member, but NetChoices total revenue jumped from just over $3 million in 2020 to $34 million in 2022, according to public tax records. The group also has built a lobbying presence in 26 states, and opened a new litigation center last year. Unlike other trade associations, NetChoices member companies dont have a say in whether the group brings a lawsuit, its leaders say. That has allowed the relatively small firmabout a dozen employees, with only four focused on litigationto move nimbly and punch above its weight in influencing internet policy by targeting state laws in court. Story continues When theres a threat, when theres an opportunity, we will act, Szabo, the general counsel for more than a decade, said in an interview with Bloomberg Law. Thats kind of a running theme in our DNA. Critics paint the group as an attack dog willing to weaponize the First Amendment in a bid to stop any internet regulationbringing cases in a way that shields its members from having to take a public stance. Some cite its successful challenges to laws governing how platforms treat underage users. NetChoice isnt interested in an actual debate because they would rather concern troll on behalf of their Big Tech members who have a vested interest in profiting off of kids rather than protecting their youngest users, said Nichole Rocha, Head of US Affairs at childrens online advocacy group 5Rights. Adam Kovacevich, a former Google lobbyist who helms the left-leaning tech trade association Chamber of Progress, said many tech trade groups are afraid of harming their relationships with legislators, which makes them hesitant to bring lawsuits. NetChoice is not, he said. They have established themselves as a voice that is willing and eager to litigate, Kovacevich said. I think of it as moving at the speed of politics. Starting Small NetChoice was founded in 2001 by a coalition of online businesses hoping to fight what they described as threatened middlementhe brick-and-mortar businesses concerned by the rapid rise of online competitors, such as liquor stores and auction houses. EBay, Orbitz and 1-800-Contacts were among the groups founding members. It also had the support of then-Connecticut Sen. Joseph Lieberman, Democrats 2000 vice presidential nominee. The trade groups leaders shun the description libertarian, to keep their distance from the political party of the same name. But from the start they made clear its libertarian values, arguing the internet economy should remain free of government intrusion, or protectionist legislation or regulation. Several of NetChoices current and former employees have attended or teach at George Mason Universitys Antonin Scalia Law School, a school with a reputation as a hub for libertarian and pro-business ideology. The lobby has also long maintained ties to the free-market network of nonprofits funded by billionaires Charles and David Koch. NetChoice president Steve DelBianco, a former IT consulting executive, sat on the private industry advisory council for the American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC, a group that has received millions in funding from the Kochs. And NetChoice has partnered throughout the years with Americans for Tax Reform, which receives funding from Koch-affiliated foundations. Szabo came aboard in 2011 after stints at major law firms Arnold & Porter and Wildman Harrold, where he developed a reputation as an early expert on internet and telecommunications law. NetChoices early policy priorities focused on fighting government regulations that would have hindered the growth of e-commerce, such as efforts to force companies to register in US states. The groups priorities morphed as the internet changed and social media companies including Metathen Facebookand Google joined the trade association in 2012. When lawmakers and the public turned on the tech industry, NetChoice stepped up as one of its most ardent defenders. Tech lobbying groups are traditionally buttoned-up and formal, but NetChoices leaders are known for being mouthy and impolitic. At a tech conference panel this month, DelBianco said instead of states pushing digital platforms to impose nighttime social media curfews, parents need to go upstairs and take the fing phone away. He also took heat when, describing the tech industrys relationship with Washington at a 2021 tech conference, he likened Silicon Valley to an enthusiastic guy who just cannot figure out what his partner wants from him. NetChoice has sharply criticized the Biden administration, knocking it for excessive red tape and poorly written attempts to rein in artificial intelligence. Szabo personally has positioned himself as a major antagonist of Biden, an unheard-of position among tech groups, which often seek to ingratiate themselves with the sitting administration. A headline on one of Szabos Fox News op-eds warns, Biden is coming for your job. Szabo drew criticism last year when he testified at a Maryland state legislative hearing against proposed online safety protections for minors in the state, but identified himself only as a Maryland parent. (NetChoice spokesperson Krista Chavez said Szabo disclosed his position in written testimony ahead of the hearing.) He also drew scorn for proposing a Genius Bar for Parents a reference to the walk-up support desk in Apple storesas a solution to the concerns around the internets impact on minors mental health. You might want to get this man some media training before you let him talk to the press again, Kevin Liao, a communications consultant who has supported initiatives to increase childrens online safety, said of Szabo. Szabo doesnt dispute being more outspoken and aggressive than the typical lobby shop. We are passionate, happy warriors, he said. Red State Challenges NetChoice not only moves quickly, but the groups conservative credentials have helped bolster its case against the typically Republican-backed social media laws. When we communicate with red states, being aligned on the right is of course helpful, because youre automatically treated as part of the group, Szabo said. Youre given an obvious credibility check. He testified against the Florida and Texas bills as they moved through state legislatures in Tallahassee and Austin in 2021. Both proposals were brought by Republicans who had accused the major tech companies of liberal bias and censorship of conservative voices. They sought to block social media platforms from removing or demoting posts based on the viewpoint of the poster, even if the posts violated established community guidelines. NetChoice hired the DLA Piper law firm to write a memo to legislators outlining the laws constitutional problems. For NetChoice, litigation is a last resort, Szabo said. We work in good faith with lawmakers to prevent unconstitutional bills from becoming unconstitutional laws. Not everyone agrees. When Utah lawmakers unveiled new proposals this month to strengthen their social media laws, one sponsor, state Sen. Mike McKell, specifically cited a lack of good faith negotiating by tech companies and their proxies. He said lawsuits from trade groups undermined the credibility of the discussions, but he didnt cite NetChoice by name. Unlike in a gridlocked Congress, a bill in a state legislature can become law in as little as a week. When Florida and Texas passed the laws, we knew that it was opening the floodgates for similar bills in other states, said Chris Marchese, director of NetChoices litigation center. Over the next two years, Arkansas, California, Ohio, and Utah also passed bills regulating large social media websites, with a focus on enforcing child safety standards and age verification. NetChoice is challenging those laws as well. In June 2021, NetChoice joined with another tech group, the Computer & Communications Industry Association, to sue Florida, less than a month after the bill there was enacted. CCIA represents the largest tech companies, including Amazon, Apple, Google and Meta. The two groups challenged Texas law months later. They contend that businesses have a First Amendment right to curate the kind of content they want on their platforms. The laws would allow states to improperly control speech online and prevent platforms from removing items such as incendiary, hate-filled posts from neo-Nazi and Ku Klux Klan supporters, the groups argue. Florida and Texas maintain that platforms such as Facebook or X can be regulated as common carriers, like utility and telephone companies. Federal district courts in both states quickly enjoined the states from enforcing the laws, but the subsequent appeals brought divergent opinions. The Atlanta-based US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit upheld the injunction against Florida. The New Orleans-based Fifth Circuit reversed the Texas injunction. Both appealed to the US Supreme Court. When the justices hear oral arguments next week, former US Solicitor General Paul Clement, one of the countrys best known conservative lawyers, will present the case on NetChoices behalf. Defining the Arguments Given its polarizing policy positions, NetChoice has its share of critics in Washington. Starting the litigation center and being really aggressive about challenging statutes before theyre enforced shows how NetChoice and its members are really serious about preserving the kind of lawlessness that has defined the internet, said Megan Iorio, senior counsel and amicus director at the Electronic Privacy Information Center, a prominent advocate in such battles since the 1990s. EPIC opposes the Florida and Texas laws, but the group is one of several that has warned that NetChoices wide swing could lead to a ruling that poses threats to any efforts to regulate the industry. EPIC filed amicus briefs supporting neither party in the cases. Because its a trade group representing companies and not individuals, NetChoices arguments about upholding the First Amendment ring hollow, said George Washington Law Professor Daniel Solove. NetChoice is trying to raise arguments about speech that are really arguments that are not NetChoices to make, he said. Whether or not the justices agree will have serious implications for how tech fights regulation attempts. Despite the partisan criticism, the cases NetChoice has chosen to litigate have drawn bipartisan support. The Biden administration is backing NetChoices position before the Supreme Court. US Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar is expected to assert in an argument to the justices that Texas and Floridas laws will prevent social media platforms from taking down hate speech and misinformation. If the laws are upheld, social media platforms will be flooded with a ton of LGBTQ+ hate and a ton of racial discrimination, said Jess Miers, senior counsel at the tech trade group Chamber of Progress. NetChoices cases have also united tech companies that might otherwise be at odds. Yelp Inc., which isnt a NetChoice member, doesnt agree with the trade associations push to block federal antitrust legislation targeting large online platforms. But the review company, which has tussled with Google on antitrust issues for years, still supported NetChoices position at the Supreme Court with an amicus brief. And while all eyes will be on the oral arguments next week, a growing number of similar social media laws are being considered across the country. NetChoices leaders sees it as their moment to shine. We want ours to be the premier litigation center for free expression and free enterprise on the internet, Szabo said. That is our goal. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. An Environmental Protection Agency regulation intended to protect millions of Americans from hazardous ozone pollution now faces legal jeopardy before the Supreme Court. During oral arguments on Feb. 21, attorneys representing Ohio, West Virginia and Indiana asked the justices to postpone part of the Clean Air Act known as the Good Neighbor provision. The provision prohibits 23 states from producing emissions that significantly affect other states abilities to maintain federal air quality standards. Among the states that fall under the provision are Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Pennsylvania and New York. It was designed to safeguard public health in downwind states given that air pollutants can migrate great distances including across state lines. During its first year of enactment, the provision helped cut smog emissions of nitrogen oxides by 18%, marking an an important step toward the overall goals of the program, the EPA said in November. Arguments from the states and EPA The three states are asking the high court to enact an emergency pause of the regulation while the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reviews a legal challenge to the provision. Their argument centers on the fact that lower courts have already frozen the provision in a dozen of the 23 states. The provisions failure has become consequential, an attorney for the plaintiffs told the court. The plan now regulates under half of the states and a quarter of the emissions that the EPA originally set out to regulate, the attorney said. Under this fractured plan and without a stay, the remaining states and their industries face serious harm. To comply with the provision, the remaining 11 states and industries within them have spent large sums of money and now face potential power shortages, the attorney argued. In response, an attorney for the EPA contended that the provision should still hold even if some of the original 23 states no longer have to comply. The EPA anticipated from the outset that the plan was one whose geographic proposition could change, the agencys attorney told the court. The agency devised the requirements for each state in order that they would be workable if a smaller or larger set of states were ultimately covered, the attorney added. What could happen If the court sides with the plaintiffs, there likely would not be an immediate impact on current air pollution levels, legal experts told McClatchy News. The impact of staying the rule would not be an increase in air pollution, but a delay in decreasing current levels of air pollution, Michael Gerrard, an environmental law professor at Columbia University Law School, told McClatchy News in an email. The bulk of the provision was not scheduled to take effect until 2026 anyway to provide industries time to make changes, David Hunter, an environmental law professor at American University Washington College of Law, told McClatchy News in an email. However, an emergency stay of this kind is seldom enacted by the high court, Hunter said. Typically, the court will only rule on a case before a lower court if the plaintiff demonstrates irreparable damage and a high likelihood of winning their case before the lower court, he said. During the oral arguments, several justices appeared to express skepticism about issuing a stay. Im trying to understand what the emergency is that warrants Supreme Court intervention at this point, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson said to the plaintiffs attorney. However, some recent high court rulings indicate that a favorable ruling for the plaintiffs is not out of the realm of possibility, Hunter said. This Court is obviously more activist than in the past and clearly interested in curtailing federal government regulatory authority, Hunter said. Supreme Court unveils ethics code but its vague and unenforceable, experts say Could Biden or Trump be replaced as candidates as election nears? What experts say Scholars release official ranking of US presidents. See where Biden and Trump fall Hassan Rouhani, president of Iran, and defence minister Hossein Dehghan during the Defence Industry Day ceremony to unveil the country's latest domestically-produced surface-to-surface Fateh (Winner) 313 missile in 2015 in Tehran - AFP Iran has sent Russia 400 highly accurate ballistic missiles in an escalation of military cooperation between the two US-sanctioned nations, according to reports. The powerful surface-to-surface missiles include many from the Fateh-110 family of short-range ballistic weapons, such as the Zolfaghar, which are capable of hitting targets 186 to 435 miles away. The shipment began in early January, sources told Reuters, after the deal was finalised in meetings late last year in Tehran and Moscow. An anonymous Iranian military official told the outlet that there have been at least four shipments of missiles and that there would be more in the coming weeks. According to another senior official, some were transported via plane, while others travelled via the Caspian Sea on ships. There will be more shipments, the second Iranian official said. There is no reason to hide it. We are allowed to export weapons to any country that we wish to. Test fire of the third generation of the Fateh 110 surface-to-surface missile in Iran, in 2010 - VAHID REZA ALAIE / IRANIAN DEFENCE MINISTRY/EPA A fourth source confirmed that Russia had received a large number of missiles from Iran recently. Irans defence ministry and the Revolutionary Guards - an elite force that oversees Irans ballistic missile programme - declined to comment. Russias defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Restrictions dictated by the UN Security Council on Irans export of missiles, drones and other military technology expired in October, but the US and EU have retained sanctions on the countrys ballistic missile programme. They have flagged concerns over exports of weapons to Irans proxies in the Middle East and to Russia. The US previously highlighted its worries in early January, when White House national security spokesman John Kirby warned that Russia was close to acquiring short-range ballistic weapons from Iran, as well as missiles already sourced from North Korea. Fateh-110 and Zolfaghar missiles are used to point at things that are high value and need precise damage, said a US expert - AFP According to Reuters, a US official said Washington had no indication that deliveries had taken place but has seen evidence of talks actively advancing. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the missile deliveries. Defence cooperation between Iran and Russia has intensified since Moscow sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Tehrans drones used to attack Ukraine Tehrans Shahed drones have become a key part of Moscows long-range assaults on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, alongside an array of missiles. Jeffrey Lewis, an expert with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, said the Fateh-110 family of missiles and the Zolfaghar were precision weapons. They are used to point at things that are high value and need precise damage, said Lewis, adding that 400 munitions could inflict considerable harm. He noted, however, that Russian bombardments were already pretty brutal. 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 visitor looks at a giant backlight screen bearing the portraits of Israelis who were killed during the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas - AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP Israel should not be legally forced to withdraw from occupied Palestinian territory without security guarantees, the United States told the UNs top court. The International Court of Justice is holding a week of hearings after a request from the United Nations, with an unprecedented 52 countries giving their views on Israels occupation. The UN has asked the ICJ to hand down an advisory opinion on the legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. Richard Visek, legal advisor at the US State Department, said: The court should not find that Israel is legally obligated to immediately and unconditionally withdraw from occupied territory. Any movement towards Israel withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza requires consideration of Israels very real security needs. He added: We were all reminded of those security needs on October 7. The court will probably deliver its opinion before the end of the year, but it is not binding on anyone. 03:57 PM GMT Today's liveblog is now closed Thanks for following todays liveblog. We will be back tomorrow with all the latest updates. 03:56 PM GMT Rafah offensive 'must not happen,' says Lammy David Lammy said he hoped the House of Commons could come together on the issue, telling MPs: A ground offensive in Rafah would be a humanitarian disaster, a moral catastrophe and a strategic mistake - it must not happen. The shadow foreign secretary added: We must not just avert a ground invasion of Rafah, essential though it is, all violence against civilians must now stop. And that is why Labour is saying unequivocally that we need an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to end the bloodshed and the suffering. 03:50 PM GMT Tory MP tables motion of no confidence in Hoyle amid fury over handling of Gaza debate A Tory MP has tabled a motion of no confidence in Sir Lindsay Hoyle amid a furious row over the Commons Speakers handling of todays Gaza ceasefire debate. William Wragg has submitted an Early Day Motion which reportedly states: This House has no confidence in Mr Speaker. Early Day Motions are used by MPs to put on record their views on specific subjects. They can be used to show the level of support for something but do not trigger any formal process. The Commons Speaker today took the highly unusual step of selecting both a Labour amendment and a Government amendment to an SNP motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The decision means that MPs will vote on the Labour and Government amendments as well as the original SNP motion. The decision to select the Labour amendment was greeted in the Commons by Tory cries of shameful and bring back Bercow. A Conservative MP could be heard to mutter that the Commons Speaker was moving the goalposts. Sir Lindsay said he wanted MPs to have the widest possible range of options in the Gaza ceasefire debate because of its importance. Read more on The Telegraphs politics liveblog here 03:43 PM GMT Pictured: Palestinian gunmen lead the way during the funeral procession of a man killed by the Israeli army Palestinian gunmen lead the way during the funeral procession of a man killed by the Israeli army in the occupied West Bank - RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP Palestinian gunmen lead the procession as mourners walk in the funeral of Aref Marwan, who was killed in clashes with the Israeli army the previous night in the occupied West Bank - RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP 03:23 PM GMT 'Catastrophic mistake' for Israel to invade Rafah, says shadow foreign secretary It would be a catastrophic mistake for Israel to extend its military offensive to Rafah, the shadow foreign secretary told the Commons. David Lammy spoke in response to an intervention from Labour MP Clive Betts who asked what sanctions would be imposed on Israel if the Rafah assault went ahead. The Sheffield South East MP said: We all want to see the fighting stopped, we cant begin to imagine the horrors of what will happen if Israel goes into Rafah, the problem is I think we can all imagine that Israel might do just that and ignore international opinion. So can we start to think what action we will take, what sanctions we will take against Israel and propose if they do that? There have to be some consequences for Israel if they behave in this way, completely opposed to all international opinion. Mr Lammy replied: The UN (United Nations) is meeting to discuss these very issues, and I think all of us can agree in this chamber that were that to happen, particularly as is being indicated at the moment by the Israeli government, over Ramadan, it would be a catastrophic mistake. 03:12 PM GMT Gaza humanitarian situation 'inhumane,' says WHO The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is inhumane, the head of the World Health Organization has said, calling the Palestinian territory a death zone. Tedros Adhanom, the WHO chief, said: The health and humanitarian situation in Gaza is inhumane and continues to deteriorate. The death toll in the war across the Gaza Strip rose to 29,313, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. 02:59 PM GMT Explosion and flash sighted near Yemen's Hodeidah, says UKMTO 02:39 PM GMT Pictured: Palestinians search for bodies and survivors among the rubble of a destroyed house Palestinians search for bodies and survivors among the rubble of a destroyed house following Israeli airstrikes on Al Nusairat refugee camp - MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock 02:36 PM GMT China says US is giving 'green light' to slaughter in Gaza China said the United States is giving the green light to slaughter in Gaza after it vetoed a resolution at the UN Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire. Zhang Jun, the Chinese UN representative, said the US was sending the wrong message and pushing the situation in Gaza into a more dangerous one. His comments - Chinas harshest criticisms yet of US policy in Gaza - come after Washington blocked a proposal put forward by Algeria which it called wishful and irresponsible. The resolution did not link a ceasefire to the release of hostages. The US has put forward an alternative resolution calling for a temporary ceasefire in a break with the Israeli government. The US plan, which opposes an Israeli invasion of Rafah, has not been scheduled for a vote. Chinas UN ambassador added that objection to a ceasefire in Gaza is nothing different from giving the green light to the continued slaughter. 02:01 PM GMT Switzerland to ban Hamas after Israel attacks Switzerlands government said it wants to ban Hamas after the groups attacks in Israel last year. Bern said it was taking action after the attacks on Oct 7 that killed two Swiss nationals and resulted in nearly 250 people being taken hostage. In response, Israel launched a military assault on Gaza that local health authorities say has killed nearly 29,000 Palestinians with thousands more feared lost amid the ruins. The Swiss government said under the new legislation Hamas and cover or successor organisations as well as organisations or groups that act on its behalf or in its name will be banned. The ban aims to punish Hamas for the October attacks as well as prevent the group using Switzerland as a safe haven or carrying out attacks in the country for example by making entry bans or expulsions easier to arrange. 01:38 PM GMT Join The Telegraphs WhatsApp channel The Telegraph is now on WhatsApp, providing you insight and analysis into the key stories of the day. Join our WhatsApp channel now to receive a selection of Telegraph stories every day, hand-picked to help you make sense of the headlines. Sign up below: 01:20 PM GMT Unstable Gaza ceasefire 'not in anyone's interest', says Sunak Rishi Sunak has cautioned against demands for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as he warned a truce that collapses within days or weeks would not be in anyones interest. Stephen Flynn, the SNPs leader in Westminster, raised the issue during PMQs as he said: Tonight this House will have the opportunity to join with the majority of the international community and say that enough is enough, that the killing in Gaza must stop and that the hostages must be released. And the best way to do that is to send a clear and united message that we back an immediate ceasefire. Surely all of us, irrespective of our political allegiance, can agree on that very issue? Mr Sunak replied: Of course we want to see the fighting in Gaza end as soon as possible and never again allow Hamas to carry out the appalling terrorist attacks that Israel was subject to... but just calling for an immediate full ceasefire now which collapses back into fighting within days or weeks is not in anyones interest. We must work towards a permanent ceasefire and that is why the right approach is the approach that we have set out... 01:16 PM GMT Pictured: Relatives mourn during the funeral of loved ones killed during overnight Israeli strikes at a cemetery in Rafah Relatives mourn during the funeral of loved ones killed during overnight Israeli strikes at a cemetery in Rafah - SAID KHATIB/AFP 01:10 PM GMT Israeli airstrike reportedly kills woman and child in south Lebanon An Israeli strike has killed a woman and a child in south Lebanon, sources in the country said. The woman and girl were killed in the strike in Majdal Zoun, a village some four miles from the border, according to two security sources and a medical source. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed movement, has been trading fire with Israel since the Oct 7 attack by its Palestinian ally Hamas on southern Israel, in a campaign Hezbollah says aims to support Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. A statement from Lt Col Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army spokesperson, on X, formerly known as Twitter, said the Israeli army had carried out an attack on a military building in the village of Yaroun in southern Lebanon and that Israeli warplanes had launched raids on three Hezbollah operational headquarters in the south. 12:47 PM GMT Lula meets Blinken after Gaza comments spark diplomatic rift Antony Blinken met Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Wednesday amid a diplomatic spat after the Brazilian leader likened Israels war in Gaza to the Nazi genocide during World War Two. US officials have said they expect Lula and Blinken, the US secretary of state, to have a robust conversation on issues of global security, including the conflict in Gaza sparked by attacks in southern Israel by Hamas militants on Oct. 7. Israel said Lula is not welcome in Israel until he takes back the comments on Monday. Matthew Miller, the state department spokesperson, said Washington disagreed with Lulas comments on Tuesday but declined to preview what Blinken would say in the meeting on the issue. 12:43 PM GMT Iran accuses Israel of attacking its gas pipelines Iran has accused Israel of being behind twin attacks on the countrys gas pipelines, disrupting supplies in at least three provinces last week. Two explosions hit Irans main south-north gas pipeline network on Feb 14 and were initially described by Javad Owji, Irans oil minister, as a terrorist act of sabotage. The explosion of the countrys gas lines was the work of Israel, Mr Owji said, adding that the plot was foiled. There were no reported casualties but state media said supplies were disrupted in the provinces of North Khorasan in the northeast, Lorestan in the west and Zanjan in the northwest. 11:49 AM GMT US says World Court must take into account Israel security concerns The United States said the World Court could not order the immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops from occupied territories without taking into account Israels security needs. Washington made the comments during proceedings at the UNs highest court examining the legality of Israels occupation of the Palestinian territories. Richard Visek, acting legal adviser at the US State Department, said: Any movement towards Israels withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza requires consideration for Israels very real security needs. 11:27 AM GMT Labour 'tying itself up in knots' over Gaza stance, says Atkins Victoria Atkins claimed the Labour Party was tying itself up in knots over its stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict and the question of a ceasefire. The health secretary told Sky News that Labour was tying itself up in knots because it cant quite decide what its approach is to this. She said the Government had taken a measured and consistent approach to making sure we get hostages out, get Hamas out, get a proper set-up, a proper government in Palestine and that is how a ceasefire will last. She added: There is no point having a ceasefire that collapses after a few weeks. 11:16 AM GMT Pictured: Benjamin Netanyahu and Rishi Sunak appear on a protest poster with the message 'cease is the word' A protest poster calling for a ceasefire shows Benjamin Netanyahu and Rishi Sunak on the movie poster for Grease with 'Cease is the word' - Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images Europe 10:54 AM GMT Most Israelis think 'absolute victory' over Hamas unlikely, poll finds Most Israelis both Arabs and Jews think that absolute victory over Hamas in Gaza is unlikely, a new survey has found. Polling from the Israel Democracy Institute shows 51 per cent of Jews and 77.5 per cent of Arab surveyed think there is a low likelihood of total victory over the terror group. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has said that Israel is within touching distance of absolute victory. 10:19 AM GMT Analysis: Prince of Wales knew Gaza plea would court controversy and did it anyway In 2018, when he became the first member of the Royal family to pay an official visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Prince William spoke carefully of his hopes for a just and lasting peace. Six years on, in his biggest, boldest public statement to date, the Prince of Wales has poured the strength of his feelings about the people he met into a striking humanitarian plea for the people of Gaza. In precise language, he urged the return of Israeli hostages, named Hamas as terrorists, invoked Churchill, lamented the sheer scale of human suffering and called outright for an end to the fighting. In doing so, he waded into the most controversial issue of the day, on the eve of a critical House of Commons vote on calling for an immediate ceasefire. Read more from The Telegraphs Royal Editor Hannah Furness here 10:09 AM GMT UKMTO receives report of suspicious activity near Yemen's Hodeidah The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said it received a report of heightened uncrewed aerial system activity 40 nautical miles west of Yemens Hodeidah. 09:46 AM GMT Pictured: A convoy of ambulances during a mission to evacuate patients from Nasser hospital in Khan Younis A convoy of ambulances during a WHO, UN humanitarian agency OCHA and Palestinian Red Crescent mission to evacuate patients from Nasser hospital in Khan Younis - CHRISTOPHER BLACK/AFP 09:35 AM GMT Children deserve better, says UNRWA chief In northern #Gaza, once vibrant schools now lie in ruins. Heartbreaking images of @UNRWA schools severely damaged or destroyed by this brutal war. More than 300,000 girls and boys who used to learn in @UNRWA schools now grapple with the harrowing war. Their #education abruptly pic.twitter.com/DsBzbXAaCc Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) February 21, 2024 09:21 AM GMT Securing return of hostages 'not most important thing,' says hard-Right Israeli minister Bringing back hostages is not the most important thing for Israel to worry about, a hard-Right Israeli minister has said. Bezalel Smotrich, a controversial figure, sparked outrage during an interview with public broadcaster Kan. When asked if securing the return of the estimated 134 hostages held by Hamas was the most important thing, he replied no and added: Its not the most important thing. Mr Smotrich asked: Why make it a competition? Why is it so important at the moment? We need to destroy Hamas. That is very important. Families of the hostages reacted angrily to his comments. Eli Albag, whose 18-year-old daughter is being held captive, said: Let them take your children and I will stand in the road and shout: Its not the most important thing. 09:07 AM GMT 'We must stop Rafah invasion', says Labour The world would be right not to forgive the UK and others if the international community fails to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Rafah, Lisa Nandy has said. The Labour frontbencher said failing to back her partys motion on a ceasefire in Gaza would mean we will have missed an opportunity to put forward a serious proposal that allies Britain with our international allies and enables us all to speak with one voice at this critical moment. Appearing on Sky News, she said: Our chief concern, our only concern is to avert whats about to happen in Rafah. If we stand by and allow it to happen, the world will not forgive us and they will be right not to. 08:41 AM GMT Labour and SNP politically naive over Gaza ceasefire row, says Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has accused Labour and the SNP of being politically naive ahead of a crunch Gaza ceasefire vote in the House of Commons on Wednesday. The health secretary said it was a shame that such an enormous international event was being overtaken by some parliamentary handling problems for the leader of the opposition. The SNP has tabled a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire. This prompted Sir Keir Starmer to put forward an amendment calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be observed by all sides as he sought to avoid another damaging Labour revolt over the issue. Meanwhile, the Government has tabled its own amendment to call for an immediate humanitarian pause, while also supporting Israels right to self-defence. Ms Atkins told Times Radio that the Government had maintained a consistent and measured approach as she condemned Labour and the SNP. We are not interested in frankly pretty politically naive parliamentary procedures that Labour and others seem to be indulging in, she said. Read more on the Gaza ceasefire vote in Westminster on the Telegraphs politics liveblog here 08:32 AM GMT Pictured: The head of collections at Israel's National Library looks at a screen bearing the portraits of Israelis who were killed Raquel Ukeles, Head of Collections at Israel's National Library, looks at a giant backlight screen bearing the portraits of Israelis who were killed - AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP 08:30 AM GMT Israeli missile attack hits high-security district in Syrian capital Several Israeli missiles hit a residential building in the Kafr Sousa district in Syrias capital Damascus on Wednesday, Syrian state media reported. The neighbourhood hosts residential buildings, schools and Iranian cultural centres, and lies near a large, heavily-guarded complex used by security agencies. The district was targeted in an Israeli attack in February 2023 that killed Iranian military experts. Syrian state news agency SANA said an Israeli attack had targeted a residential building but made no mention of casualties. It published an image of the charred side of a multi-storey building. Witnesses heard several back-to-back explosions. The blasts scared children at a nearby school and ambulances rushed to the area, the witnesses told Reuters. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. 08:29 AM GMT US attempt to use UN to halt Rafah offensive is ethically reprehensible The USs attempt to use the United Nations to halt Israels Rafah offensive is ethically reprehensible, an Israeli minister has said. The Biden administration broke with the Israeli government this week to warn the planned invasion of the Gazan city should not proceed under current circumstances. In a draft UN resolution, it pushed for a vote on a temporary ceasefire and said invading the city where more than one million Palestinians are sheltering would have serious implications for regional peace and security. Read more here 08:28 AM GMT Prince Williams plea to end Gaza fighting risks diplomatic rift with Israel The Prince of Wales has called for an end to the fighting in Gaza in an intervention that risks sparking a diplomatic rift with Israel. In a public statement, Prince William said too many have been killed in the conflict, urging more humanitarian aid and the release of hostages as he called for an end to the fighting as soon as possible. Invoking Sir Winston Churchill, he said: Even in the darkest hour, we must not succumb to the counsel of despair. I continue to cling to the hope that a brighter future can be found, and I refuse to give up on that. His intervention was backed by Number 10, which said the nation should speak with one voice. Read more here 08:27 AM GMT Good Morning Good morning, and welcome to todays liveblog. We will be guiding you through all the latest updates. 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. At least two people have been killed in a suspected Israeli missile strike in Syria's capital, Damascus, Syrian state media and activists say. The Syrian military said two civilians died when several missiles hit a block of flats in the Kafr Sousa district. A monitoring group said two foreigners and a Syrian civilian were killed, and that the area was frequented by senior figures from Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Lebanese group Hezbollah. The Israeli military has not commented. However, it has previously acknowledged carrying out hundreds of strikes on targets in Syria that it says are linked to Iran and allied armed groups. It has reportedly stepped up such strikes since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip in October, in response to cross-border attacks on Israel by Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups in Lebanon and Syria, who say they are acting in support of the allied Palestinian group Hamas. Last month, a strike in Damascus that was blamed on Israel killed five senior Revolutionary Guards and several Syrian security personnel. Syria's official Sana news agency cited a military source as saying a number of missiles were launched towards Damascus from the direction of the Israel-occupied Golan Heights shortly before 09:40 (07:40 GMT) on Wednesday. The missiles struck a residential building in Kafr Sousa, in the west of the city, killing two civilians and wounding another, the source added. The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights - which monitors the war in Syria via a network of sources - said the missiles killed two non-Syrian nationals who had been inside the block of flats. A Syrian civilian who had been on the street below was killed by falling shrapnel, it added. Video and photos posted online showed the aftermath of what appeared to be a precision strike on the fourth floor of the building, with extensive damage to the exterior and interior of one flat clearly visible. Several vehicles parked on the street below were also damaged, including an empty bus reportedly belonging to the adjacent Al-Bawader private school. In February 2023, a rocket attack blamed on Israel killed at least five people in Kafr Sousa, which is situated near a large complex used by security agencies. One report said the target was an installation where Iranian and Syrian military experts had been meeting to advance programmes to develop drone or missile capabilities of Iran-backed groups. Iran has built a wide network of allied armed groups and proxies operating in countries across the Middle East. They are all opposed to Israel and the US and sometimes refer to themselves as the "Axis of Resistance". A number of the armed groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah, are proscribed as terrorist organisations by Israel, the US, UK and other countries. Harmony Montgomery was last seen alive around October 2019 (National Center for Missing Children/Manchester Police Department) Its been two years since Adam Montgomery was charged with the murder of his five-year-old daughter Harmony. Now, hes been convicted in the shocking case that sparked uproar across America over the horrific abuse the little girl suffered and the mounting questions around how she fell through the cracks of the systems meant to protect her. Harmony was last seen in the fall of 2019 in Manchester, New Hampshire, but for two whole years, nobody reported her missing. At the time of Harmonys disappearance, she lived with her father, stepmother and the couples two children. Harmonys mother, Crystal Sorey, had lost custody of her daughter due to substance abuse problems. When authorities finally began looking for the missing child in December 2021, they were two years behind the search. Then, just six months into the missing persons investigation, the little girls father was arrested. He was later charged with second-degree murder, tampering with witnesses, falsifying evidence and abuse of a corpse. Authorities secured his arrest after his estranged wife, Kayla Montgomery, came forward, alleging her husband fatally struck Harmony in the head when she had a bathroom accident in the car. Montgomery then placed Harmonys body in a cooler, which he then snuck into his workplace freezer, before disposing of her remains at an unknown location in March 2020. His attorneys had claimed during the trial that Harmony died under Kaylas care and that Montgomery only went along with plans to hide the body to protect his and Kaylas two infant sons. On 22 February, Montgomery, 34, was found guilty on charges of second-degree murder, abuse of a corpse and falsifying information. With his sentencing expected to take place this spring, heres everything we know about the disturbing case: Who was Harmony Montgomery? Harmony was born in June 2014. At the time, her father was in prison before his release in 2015. The little girl was removed from her mothers care at least three times in the first four years of her life. In July 2018, the Department of Child Services removed her from her mothers custody, due to her drug addiction, and placed Harmony in a foster home. Then, in February 2019, Montgomery was granted custody of Harmony before a review of his home was completed by the New Hampshire Division of Children, Youth and Families. While Ms Sorey lived in Massachusetts, Montgomery lived in New Hampshire so Harmony was moved to a new state to live with her father. The prosecution argued that Harmony had met all the milestones for a girl her age, and only began soiling herself when she was sent to live in an abusive environment with her father. Harmonys foster mother Michelle Raftery told jurors that Harmony was potty trained by the time she was two and a half years old. We had the privilege of being Harmonys foster parents... At two and a half, going on three, she was potty trained, Ms Raftery said. She wanted to be like the bigger kids in our house. So she would tell us, she pretty much potty trained herself. Ms Raftery said that Harmony would call her momma, and say dadda to her husband. Meanwhile, Ms Sorey described her daughter to jurors as a rambunctious little girl who would tell her whole life story to anyone she met. When was Harmony last seen? The last confirmed sighting of Harmony was on 11 September 2019 when Manchester police officers were called to her fathers home on 77 Gilford Street in Manchester. Harmony was living with her father as well as his wife, Kayla Montgomery, and their children at the property at the time. Law enforcement said the last police callout to the property was in October 2019 but later confirmed they had muddled the dates and it was actually September. Police interviews and statements from various family members also offered a timeline for her last known sighting. Ms Sorey told police she had not been able to contact her daughter since they spoke on a video call in April 2019. After that, she said Montgomery cut off all contact between her and her daughter. Missing posters of Harmony Montgomery (AP) Montgomery first claimed to investigators that he last saw his daughter around Thanksgiving 2019, claiming that Ms Sorey had picked her up from Manchester to take her to live with her. According to the criminal complaint, Montgomery claimed to believe his daughter was living with his ex when officers contacted him in December 2021. He also did not show much emotion or reaction when officers said they were concerned whether Harmony was alive, the complaint alleges. His story was also contradicted by Ms Montgomery, who told police she last saw Harmony the day after Thanksgiving when her husband said he was driving her to see Ms Sorey. Montgomerys uncle Kevin Montgomery told investigators he had not seen Harmony or his nephew since late 2019 when she was five years old. When was the alarm raised? Police interviews with other family members revealed that Montgomery was abusive towards his daughter, including giving her a black eye, forcing her to clean the toilet with her own toothbrush and making her stand in a corner for hours as a punishment. Adam Montgomerys brother, Michael Montgomery, told investigators he had concerns that Adam was physically abusive to the child and was super short with her. His uncle Kevin Montgomery, who briefly lived in the same home along with Adam, his wife and kids, said while on the stand that he did not want to be in court but was subpoenaed to testify. Kevin told jurors he took a trip to Florida in July 2019 to visit family. When he returned on 22 July 2019, he noticed Harmony had a black eye. Looked full all the way around, like a racoons eye, he told jurors as he became emotional. I said something along the lines of, Oh my f***ing God, what did you do, Harmony? Harmony did not answer the question, but Adam Montgomery did, Kevin said. She didnt do anything, I bashed her around the f***ing house, he claimed his nephew answered. Kevin told several relatives about the incident, including Harmonys mother and foster mother, and also called the Department of Child and Family Services (DCYF). When a DCYF employer pulled up to Adam Montgomerys driveway to follow up on the report, he drove away with Harmony in the car. By the time the employer checked on Harmony weeks later, she only had a red mark on her undereye that her father blamed on an accident she supposedly had while playing with her siblings. Kevin Montgomery tried to get ahold of his nephew in 2020, to no avail. He later realised that Adam Montgomery had blocked him on Facebook. Under cross-examination, the defence tried to argue that Adam Montgomery hit his daughter by accident after he walked in on her trying to suffocate her baby brother. However, Kevin said he only recalled Adam saying Harmony had her fingers on the babys mouth. During redirect, Kevin Montgomery clarified that he didnt think Adam Montgomery was just jerking Harmony away from her brother, or that his comment about bashing Harmony around the f***ing house was sarcasm. Who was charged over her murder? In January 2019, Harmonys father and his wife were both arrested and charged on counts related to the missing child. Montgomery was initially charged with second-degree felony assault, two misdemeanour counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and one misdemeanour count of interference with custody. The day after her husbands arrest, Kayla Montgomery was arrested on one felony charge of welfare fraud for allegedly fraudulently collecting welfare benefits for the missing child between December 2019 and June 2021. Ms Montgomery, who has three children with her estranged husband, fraudulently obtained $1,500 in food stamp benefits meant for Harmony between December 2019 and June 2021 even though the girl was not living with them. Prosecutors later dropped that welfare fraud charge and added three new charges one count of theft by deception and two misdemeanour charges of welfare fraud. She pleaded guilty to two of those charges in November 2022 and reached a plea deal with the prosecution in exchange for her testimony against her husband. Then in October 2022, attorney general John Formella announced new charges of second-degree murder against Montgomery in the death of Harmony. Court documents also show that Ms Montgomery, who was charged with unrelated theft charges, came forward with information that led to her estranged husbands arrest. Montgomery was charged with one count of second-degree murder for recklessly causing the death of Harmony; falsifying physical evidence for altering, destroying, concealing or removing the girls body; abuse of a corpse for unlawfully removing, concealing or destroying Harmonys body; and tampering with witnesses or informants, which he did by attempting to coerce Ms Montgomery to lie to investigators. I do want to again express my deepest sympathies to Harmonys family, friends and loved ones, Mr Formella said at a news conference announcing the murder charges. We understand that todays news, while significant for purposes of this investigation, is yet another difficult moment for those who loved Harmony and those who have followed this case. Kayla Montgomery was sentenced last year to 18 months in prison over perjury charges for lying under oath about Harmonys whereabouts at the beginning of the investigation. Adam Montgomery conceded to two charges of abuse of a corpse and falsifying information. How did Harmony die? During an interview with detectives, Ms Montgomery said that Montgomery had repeatedly punched Harmony in the face on 7 December 2019, after becoming upset with her for having bathroom accidents in the car their family was living in after they were evicted from their home that November. The 48-page probable cause affidavit detailed how Ms Montgomery told investigators her husband had delivered sets of three-to-four blows with a closed fist to Harmonys face/head on three separate occasions over the course of a few minutes that morning. After the final blow, Montgomery said: I think I really hurt her this time. I think I did something. Harmony made a moaning type noise for approximately five minutes and then stopped, Ms Montgomery told investigators. No one checked on Harmony or stopped to get her medical attention, Ms Montgomery told investigating officers. Instead, the family continued their ride to a Burger King before returning to the apartment complex, where they usually parked their car. They remained in the parking lot for 20 minutes before driving off again. In a second interview, Ms Montgomery admitted that she and Montgomery used heroin and fentanyl during this period. It was only when their car, a Chrysler Sebring, broke down that she claimed the couple discovered Harmony was not breathing and had died. Montgomery then placed Harmonys lifeless body in a red duffel bag. While living in the parking lot, Ms Montgomery claimed her husband would occasionally leave Harmonys body out in the snow to slow the rate of decomposition. When the family moved in with Ms Montgomerys mother and her boyfriend, Montgomery placed the duffel bag containing Harmonys body in a red cooler in the common hallway of their apartment building. After that, the Montgomerys moved into a shelter house, where the bag began to leak. Montgomery reportedly put the duffel bag into a trash bag, and stored it inside a vent shaft in the ceiling of their room. The state said that when investigators returned to the room two years later, they saw deep blood stains in the ceiling vent and smelled decomposition. And surrounding Harmonys blood, all that was left of her... the defendants fingerprints and palm prints, froze in there for a time, the prosecution said. After neighbours at the shelter began to complain about the smell, Montgomery reportedly brought the bag with Harmonys remains to work with him every day. At the time, he worked as a cook and dishwasher at the since-closed Portland Pie Company. [The bag] stood out to people, because he placed it in the freezer during his shifts, a prosecutor said. He brought it with him regularly to work and he stored it in a freezer where the company kept food, and ingredients. People saw him bringing that in and out. They couldnt have imagined what that bag contained. The Montgomerys then moved to an apartment on Union Street. Jurors heard about a February 2020 $400 purchase of limestone, a metal-cutting diamond blade, a lithium-ion battery and a power grinder. The purchase was made at a Home Depot located just a mile away from Citizens Bank, where Kayla Montgomery, reportedly withdrew $500 the same day. Prosecutors suggested that Montgomery may have used the power tools to destroy Harmonys body in the bathroom of his Union Street apartment. He discussed using a saw to cut her up. He discussed using lime to further decompose her so she couldnt be found, the prosecution said during opening statements. Remember, he believed that if there was no body there could be no evidence and he could get away with this. The state said that he compressed the sealed bag with Harmonys remains and added quicklime to the bag. Thinking that it would eat away anything left of her, the prosecution said. He spent most of the day in that bathroom compressing Harmony. According to the prosecution, Montgomery took Harmonys frozen remains and put them in the tub, running hot water to further manipulate what was left of the body. Kayla Montgomery then walked inside the bathroom and saw Montgomery. She saw that Harmony was largely skin, bones and fluid and that Montgomery was trying to dispose of her remains down the drain, the prosecution said. Kayla also alleged that Montgomery discussed using a handsaw and a Nutribullet to destroy Harmonys rotting remains. Montgomery spent hours inside the bathroom dethawing Harmonys frozen remains, cutting the clothes off the body, and running hot water onto what remained of the little girl, she said. He wanted to use a handsaw and a Nutribullet, Kayla told the court. He said thatd be good to use to help get rid of her... I saw Harmony folded together the same way she was when we took her out of the car. She looked like she had barely any skin, just skin and bones and was very bruised. He had the hot water running... in the tub. Harmonys father, Adam Montgomery in his booking photo (AP) In spring 2020, Kayla said Montgomery rented a U-Haul truck to dispose of Harmonys body during the middle of the night. When he returned the next morning, he allegedly said words to the effect of its done. Why was Harmony not reported missing for two years? Questions arose over how a little girl could not be seen for more than two years without any action being taken by authorities. Multiple family members have said they raised concerns for Harmonys safety with New Hampshires Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in the two years that authorities werent searching for her. Ms Sorey accused authorities of failing her daughter. She said she made multiple attempts to report concerns to child services. On 18 November 2021, she contacted Manchester police saying she believed her daughter was missing. Police officers contacted the DCYF about the location of the missing child. Then, on 27 December of that year, the DCYF reported that it was also unable to locate Harmony. Manchester Police announced a search was launched on 31 December 2021. Harmony Montgomerys mother, Crystal Sorey, speaks out at a vigil for her daughter (NBC Boston) Ms Sorey was so convinced that her daughter was in trouble that she sent emails to the Manchester mayors office, begging for help in finding the girl. Please, Im begging for help in finding my daughter, she wrote on 29 December 2021. Ms Sorey said Montgomery had never enrolled their daughter in school and that she has missed important doctors appointments shes had since a baby due to a disability in her eye. The emails were sent just two days before police finally reported Harmony missing. As well as the repeated attempts to raise the alarm, the family was well-known to child services. Records released showed that police officers were called to the Gilford Street home at least 10 times between February 2019 when Montgomery got custody of Harmony and October 2019. Reports ranged from claims of domestic disturbances to animal welfare and concerns about the living conditions in the home. The DCYF was notified about some of the incidents. A neighbour told The Independent in 2022 that it was a bad situation at the property, describing lots of people living there at different times, adults seen arguing in the street, junk left piled up in the yard, and the electricity being switched off at one point. We didnt intermingle with them as it was a bad situation, she said. There was lots of different people living there, piles of junk in the driveway, junk outside. The electricity was turned off and they ran the generator all summer with the wiring running through the window. The neighbour said the Montgomerys were basically squatting at the home when it had fallen into foreclosure and were refusing to leave. She said she went away for the Thanksgiving holidays in 2019 and returned to find the family had finally packed up and moved out. This coincides with when Mr and Ms Montgomery claimed they last saw the little girl. An independent investigation was launched by the Massachusetts Office of the Child Advocate after Harmony was moved from Massachusetts into the custody of Montgomery in New Hampshire in February 2019. After the case came to light, officials in New Hampshire and Massachusetts passed the blame between each other. The New Hampshire governor sent a letter to Massachusetts court officials slamming a judge for placing Harmony in the care of her monster father, given his violent past and long rap sheet. Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker responded to the criticism, saying he felt his pain but said he wanted to wait to see the results of the independent review by the Massachusetts Office of the Child Advocate. The report later placed the blame on state agencies for failing to consider Harmonys needs above her parents rights to her custody. The central and most important finding in this investigation and report is that Harmonys individual needs, well-being, and safety were not prioritized or considered on an equal footing with the assertion of her parents rights to care for her in any aspect of the decision making by any state entity, Maria Mossaides, from the Massachusetts Office of the Child Advocate, said in the report. When children are not at the centre of every aspect of the child protection system, then the system cannot truly protect them. This report describes the ripple effect of miscalculations of risk and an unequal weight placed on parents rights versus a childs wellbeing. Kayla Montgomery arrives for her plea and sentencing hearing at Hillsborough County Superior Court (AP) Mr Baker responded to the report a day later by saying everybody failed in this case, and pushed a bill that included $50m to recruit, train and pay guardian ad litems within the Massachusetts court system. There are a lot of lawyers who are in the room on this case, and none of them at the end of the day had just Harmony Montgomerys interest as a primary concern, Mr Baker said. Montgomerys past criminal history Prior to the murder of his daughter, Montgomery has a history of violence and a long criminal record, including convictions for shooting a man in the head in a drug deal just six months before Harmony was born. He was also convicted in 2010 for attacking two women at gunpoint. It has also emerged that he is a suspect in the cold case murder of a 28-year-old man in Lynn, New Hampshire, back in February 2008. Darlin Guzman was found shot in the chest in the parking lot of the former White Hen Pantry convenience store in Lynns Austin Square on the night of 10 February 2008. He was pronounced dead in hospital. A law enforcement source told Boston 25 News that Montgomery, who was 18 at the time, and two members of his family, who were not named, have been the focus of the murder investigation since day one. The three family members had been in contact with the victim earlier that day and planned to meet with him at the convenience store, before the meeting culminated in gunfire, according to the source. The victims car was later found abandoned in the direction of Bedford, New Hampshire, where Montgomery lived at the time. Harmony Montgomery was last seen in October 2019 (Manchester Police Department) No one has ever been charged with Guzmans murder but the source said Montgomery remains the focus of the investigation to this day. In June 2023, Montgomery was found guilty of all counts in his trial relating to stolen weapons in 2019. He was sentenced to 32-and-a-half to 75 years in prison. Montgomery found guilty of daughters murder Montgomery did not attend the trial and wasnt present when jurors returned their verdict on 22 February. He had proclaimed his innocence, saying in court last year in an unrelated case that he loves Harmony Montgomery unconditionally. His attorneys earlier acknowledged his guilt on two lesser charges, that he purposely and unlawfully removed, concealed or destroyed her corpse and falsified physical evidence, but said he didnt kill Harmony. Harmonys mother Crystal Sorey, and her foster parents Michelle and Timothy Raftery were in the courtroom when Judge Messer read the guilty verdict. After the verdict was read Ms Sorey remarked on Montgomerys absence: Hes a coward. She said, I hope he never falls asleep without seeing her beautiful face and that he will constantly replay this verdict in his mind. She added that its all about control for him and that Harmony wasnt anything to him. Where is Harmony? The girls remains have never been found. The Gilford Street property was the focus of much of the search, with investigators seen in the home and the backyard for multiple days. The reward for information about Harmonys disappearance has topped $150,000. During the trial, attorney Caroline Smith brought up a tip made by an unknown individual. Senior Assistant Attorney General Ben Agati later explained that the call was placed by a woman after she had spent several days watching the trial. Manchester Police only notified the prosecution the following day. She came into the station to be interviewed and provided a statement, Mr Agati said. Mr Agati said that a written report and the taped interview were sent to his office and then forwarded to the defence. Judge Messer asked Ms Smith to expeditiously file a motion seeking to have the mystery called on her witness list if the defence wished to call her to the stand. At a press conference following Montgomerys guilty verdict, Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg noted that the departments determination to find Harmony would not be impacted by the ending of the trial. 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. Prosecutor Ben Agati said the Rumney Marsh Reservation and the Chelsea Creek area are still the biggest areas of interest. Mr Agati encouraged the public to come forward with any information they think could lead to finding Harmony. Theres a part of her body that we havent recovered, Mr Agati said. Were still hoping that we can do that and she gets a proper burial ... Its what she deserves. And so the search for her will continue until we find her. Ms Sorey also addressed reporters outside the courtroom, saying she didnt want her daughter to be remembered by her fathers name. Shes no longer Harmony Mongtomery, shes Harmony Renee, she said, explaining that both she and Harmony shared the same middle name. Shes no longer a Montgomery. Anyone with information is asked to call or text 603-932-8997 A Kentucky Republican legislator filed a bill Wednesday that would strip the governors authority to appoint a replacement US senator should a vacancy in that office occur. And it has nothing to do with Sen. Mitch McConnell, he says. House Bill 622 from House Majority Floor Leader Steven Rudy, R-Paducah, would repeal the current law dictating procedure around gubernatorial appointments to fill a vacancy in one of the states two U.S. Senate seats. Instead, the bill calls for those vacancies to be filled via special election. US Senate vacancies would be filled under the same process that Congressional seats are filled, which necessitates a special election. The bills filing comes months after questions about the health of Senate Majority Leader McConnell rippled from Washington, D.C., to Frankfort. Over the summer, the 82-year-old McConnell twice publicly froze up on camera. Rudy said he believed the senators health is greatly improved. It has nothing to do with him and everything to do with me thinking this is the best and preferred public policy, he said. Rudy said he had not conferred with either McConnells office or the office of Kentuckys junior U.S. senator, Rand Paul, about this bill. Rudy filed a similar bill in 2021, when the legislature changed the procedure governing U.S. Senate vacancy appointments, but that measure did not get a House floor vote. Kentuckys government is politically divided with a Democratic governor in Andy Beshear who just won re-election and an overwhelmingly Republican state legislature and slate of federal elected officials. However, Rudy said the bill is not about blue or red. This, I think, is truly what the people want and expect should there be a vacancy in their United States senator, Rudy told the Herald-Leader. If theres a vacancy, the people should be able to select their U.S. senator. Rudy said that the intention of the bill is for state parties to pick their own nominees in the event of a special election to replace a US Senator. The current law, passed by the GOP-led legislature in 2021s Senate Bill 228 from Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, dictates the governor select a replacement for any US senator vacating the office from a list of three provided by the state executive committee of the vacating senators party. Prior to that laws passage, there were no such restrictions on gubernatorial appointments to replace US senators. Beshear has not directly said whether he would follow that law should a vacancy occur following a hypothetical McConnell exit, instead predicting the senator will serve out his term. Some Democrats in Kentucky have speculated Beshear would flout the law and either challenge it in court or appoint a Democrat instead of a Republican. McConnell is serving his seventh term as a US senator. Last year, he made history when he became the longest-serving Senate party leader in American history. Rudy said hes been against gubernatorial appointments for vacating senators after former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich was accused of trying to sell former president Barack Obamas senate seat when he left his post for the White House. Rudy lives just across the Ohio River from Southern Illinois. Rudy said that he wasnt sure if the House or the entire General Assembly would pass the bill. He did add that many members believe his bill, which is much shorter than the bill passed in 2021, makes sense. American Queen Voyages unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic. Courtesy of American Queen Voyages River cruise line American Queen Voyages has shut down, canceling all future cruises and instructing future guests to apply for refunds. The cruise line posted the news to an official website created to provide information in the aftermath of the shut down. Travelers who were set to go on a now-canceled voyage with the company were instructed to request a refund online by filling out a claim form. Despite great efforts by our team, crew and partners, American Queen Voyages (AQV) unfortunately has been unable to rebound from the effects of the pandemic, the company shared with Travel + Leisure on Wednesday. The overnight cruise industry was especially affected by changes in travel preferences and, as a result, AQV has become financially unsustainable. The company added: We sincerely regret any inconvenience this decision causes. Our goal is to ensure a smooth process for all AQV stakeholders. Before the shutdown, American Queen Voyages operated the overnight cruise division of the Hornblower Group, which will be acquired, according to a press release shared with T+L. The cruise line first adopted the name American Queen Voyages in 2021 after changing it from the American Queen Steamboat Company. Under the new name, the company sailed river cruises, lake, and ocean cruises, along with expedition voyages to destinations like Alaska. In fact, the company was known for having some of the best river cruises in the United States, journeying along the Mississippi, Ohio, and Cumberland rivers on board classic paddle wheelers. Now, American Queen Voyages has declared bankruptcy. Travelers who request a refund are warned they will first receive a denial notice since AQV has filed for Chapter 11 to conduct its business shutdown and is not making reimbursement payments directly. Customers must then submit the refund request to Argo Surety, which has insured the cruise line. You should expect to be fully refunded for deposits you have paid on cancelled AQV cruises, the company wrote. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) held a press conference with Drue Corbett asking for the release of Ryan Corbett who is being wrongfully detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan for more than 550 days. Feb. 21, 2024 U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey called for the release of Ryan Corbett, an American held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan since 2022, and touted a bipartisan resolution introduced earlier this year advocating for the release. McGarvey said he was not aware of the situation until Ryan Corbett's father, Drue Corbett, contacted his office earlier this year. McGarvey said the Taliban is recognized as a terrorist organization and that Ryan Corbett is being unlawfully detained. "I personally called Drue and said, 'I can't imagine what you're going through as a father and as a dad myself, we're going to do everything we can to bring your son home'," McGarvey said at a press conference Wednesday. Rep. Claudia Tenney of New York introduced the resolution in January which now has 67 bipartisan cosponsors including McGarvey and Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky. Drue Corbett asked for the release of his son Ryan Corbett who is being wrongfully detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan for more than 550 days. Feb. 21, 2024 Drue Corbett, who is from Louisville, said his son is being held with two other Americans in the same jail and that he has spoken with other people who were also detained but were released. He said Ryan Corbett is in a 9x9 cell without any windows and can go outside for 15 minutes once a month. Drue Corbett said his son spent many years in Afghanistan and returned to the country on two different occasions after the American military withdrawal in 2021. The first time he was welcomed by members of the Taliban, but on his other trip in 2022, he was detained. "If this was Mr. McGarvey's son, if this was Joe Biden's son, he would be out," Drue Corbett said. "So, whatever you have to do...that you would do for your own son, let's do for Ryan." More: 'An urgent priority': Louisville, DOJ begin negotiating terms of federal consent decree This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Morgan McGarvey calls for release of Ryan Corbett, detained by Taliban The PMLN failed to win the 8 Feburary election but has struck a deal to return it to power Two political parties in Pakistan have reached a formal agreement to form a new government following an election mired in controversy. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) will be backed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in a new administration, they jointly announced. Both parties won fewer seats than candidates loyal to jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan on 8 February. On X, Mr Khan's PTI party branded the coalition "mandate thieves". His movement alleges the vote was rigged to keep his supporters out of power. More than six days after reaching an initial deal to form a coalition, the PMLN and PPP announced a full agreement had been concluded at a press conference on Tuesday. Bilawal Bhutto Zardaro, chairman of the PPP, said: "The coalition's aim is to address the country's economic crisis." Former Prime Minister and President of PMLN Shahbaz Sharif pledged "collective action to tackle economic and other challenges". The agreement means Mr Sharif is on course to become prime minister for a second time with the backing of the junior coalition partner, while Asif Ali Zardari of the PPP will be the coalition's candidate to become president - an office he has previously held. Former Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif is on course to return to office after a deal was struck with a smaller party The process for electing the prime minister involves a parliamentary vote, which is expected by the end of February. A separate election to decide the next president will be held in the coming weeks. It remains unclear who will take up other major government posts. The contentious parliamentary election earlier this month failed to produce a conclusive result. Despite Mr Khan being behind bars and his candidates forced to run as independents rather than under a single banner, candidates backed by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the single largest bloc in a shock result. However, their 93 seats in the National Assembly fell short of the overall majority of 169 needed to form a government. That paved the way for the PMLN, which is led by another former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, to go into negotiations with the PPP. The PMLN won 75 seats, while the PPP came third with 54 - but with likely backing from smaller parties and once seats reserved for women and religious minority representatives are apportioned, the coalition partners will have sufficient support in parliament to govern. Both parties were part of a coalition which dramatically forced Mr Khan from office in 2022. In January 2024, he was jailed for 10 years after being charged with leaking state secrets, which he denies. The PTI is challenging the outcome in the courts and its supporters have staged protests across the country. Last week, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman of the Jamaat-e-Islami party gave up his Karachi seat after alleging local election officials medalled in the process to prevent his PTI opponent from winning. Social media has been disrupted across the country in recent days amid protests. Internet access monitoring group NetBlocks said access to X - formerly Twitter - continued to be restricted for many on Tuesday. bottom banner Get in touch banner Outside Source radio on the BBC World Service will be answering your questions from 16:00GMT today about the Pakistan election. This is your chance to ask us anything and we'll answer as many questions as we can. You can send your questions in the following ways: WhatsApp: +44 7756 165803 Post on X: @BBC_HaveYourSay Email: YourQuestions@bbc.co.uk Or fill out the form below Please read our terms & conditions and privacy policy If you are reading this page and can't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version of the BBC website to submit your question or comment or you can email us at YourQuestions@bbc.co.uk. Please include your name, age and location with any submission. bottom banner UK Net Zero Britain will still depend on oil and gas for a third of its energy in its net zero target year of 2050 despite billions of pounds of investment, according to a report from leading energy analysts. The UK is massively behind schedule with its plans for offshore wind farms, nuclear power stations, solar farms and other low carbon energy sources needed to replace oil and gas, experts at DNV said. It means that by 2050 when successive prime ministers have pledged the UK will hit net zero it will still be pouring 125m tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere every year, according to the DNV report. The analysts said: The UK looks set to miss both its Net Zero by 2050 target and its decarbonization commitments for 2030 Our forecast shows that the UKs annual emissions will amount to some 125m tonnes of CO2e in 2050. Their report pinpointed three key sources for future emissions, with transport at the top of the list. It said: In transport, a sizeable proportion of vehicles, particularly commercial ones, will continue to be fossil-fuelled in 2050. Aviation will continue to emit significantly due to the slow penetration of low-carbon fuels by 2050. The rate at which the UK is switching heating for buildings from gas to electric was also far too slow, said the report. It said that natural gas will still comprise over 50pc of final energy demand for buildings in 2050, adding: There is clearly an opportunity for government to act more forcefully on the decarbonization of domestic heating. DNVs study showed that the UK currently gets about 80pc of its total energy from oil and gas roughly the same proportion as two decades ago. By 2031 this will have declined only slightly, to around 70pc of total energy a drop of just 10pc despite spending 46bn on Hinkley Point C nuclear power station and billions of pounds more on windfarms, solar farms and battery storage systems. Hari Vamadevan, UK regional director for energy at DNV, said: Without immediate action the UK will fail to deliver on its climate commitments, fall behind in the global race to decarbonise and miss out on many of the benefits that switching to a low-carbon system will bring. Story continues But, by putting the correct policy levers in place, there is still time for industry and government to deliver a transition that is good for business, good for consumers and good for the planet. DNVs warnings are supported by separate research from Energy UK, the trade body for power suppliers, showing the UK faces a serious shortfall in its 2030 offshore wind targets. Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, has set a target of expanding offshore wind from 14 Gigawatts (GW) to 50GW by 2030. It means installing one or two turbines every day for the next six years. He tried to encourage new construction by offering a minimum price for the power delivered by new windfarms the Contracts for Difference system which was successful up to 2022. Last year, however, Grant Shapps, the then energy secretary, offered such a low minimum price for power from new wind farms that no companies were willing to build them. This has put construction back by years and makes it almost certain the UK will miss its 2030 target. Energy UKs analysis has found that the UK will fall short of its 2030 target by at least 7GW equivalent to two new nuclear power stations.The lost turbines would power 25pc of UK homes or cut out emissions equivalent to those produced by the whole of Essex. Adam Berman, Energy UKs deputy director, said the government must re-establish the UKs lead. He said: Offshore wind plays a vital role in the Governments clean energy ambitions Delivering an ambitious renewables programme in line with the Governments targets means being realistic about the economic and market conditions that potential investors are facing. The energy department was contacted for comment. 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. Manuel and Patricia Oliver, the parents of Joaquin Oliver, one of the victims of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, sit for an interview in Coral Springs, Florida, on Friday Feb. 9, 2024. A new campaign is using the AI-generated voice of their son to make change in regards to gun laws. | Cody Jackson, Associated Press Last week, two gun control advocacy groups, Change the Ref and March For Our Lives, launched a campaign using the AI-generated voices of young people killed by people wielding guns to try to change gun laws in the United States, according to CNN. The Shotline As part of the campaign, the groups created a website called The Shotline, which features the stories and voices of six victims of gun violence, per The Hill. The voices were created by AI using audio supplied by the victims parents, per CNN. On The Shotline website, people can listen to messages generated using the AI-created voices. They can also enter their zip code, select a local representative and send the generated message in a phone call directly to that representative. The voices One of the voices used in the campaign is that of Joaquin Oliver. Oliver was 17, and a senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. He was one of 17 killed when a man walked into his school and opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle, according to NBC News. In Olivers generated message, he says, Six years ago, I was a senior at Parkland. Many students and teachers were murdered on Valentines Day that year by a person using an AR-15 assault rifle. Its been six years, and youve done nothing. Not a thing to stop all the shootings that have continued to happen since. The thing is, I died that day in Parkland, Olivers voice continues. My body was destroyed by a weapon of war. Im back today because my parents used AI to recreate my voice to call you. Other victims like me will be calling too, again and again, to demand action. How many calls will it take for you to care? How many dead voices will you hear before you finally listen? The other five voices generated and used on The Shotline are of: Uzi Garcia, 10, who was shot and killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022. Ethan Song, 15, who died in 2018 in an accidental shooting. Akilah Dasilva, 23, who was killed in mass shooting in Tennessee in 2018. Mike Baughan, 30, of Maryland, who died by suicide in 2014. Jaycee Webster, 20, who was shot and killed at his Maryland home in 2017. And per CNN, more than two dozen parents have given audio of their childrens voices for future use. The purpose According to CBS News, Olivers parents and founders of Change the Ref, Manuel and Patricia Oliver, said the purpose of the campaign is based on the premise that if a person wants laws changed, the first step they should take is to call their elected representatives. But, per CNN, Olivers parents say they have tried to make change for a long time with little result. My wife and I have been trying to use our voices for the last six years. Nonstop, said Manuel Oliver. We have tried almost every single way to approach gun violence in a way that people will pay attention. We havent been very successful. ... So we decided, you know what? Lets bring the voices of our loved ones. Lets bring the voice of Joaquin. Patricia Oliver said she thinks the voices of the victims, including her son, could have a bigger impact. We need to keep up the pressure. Whatever it takes, she said, per CBS News. Related Missouri Gov. Mike Parson on Tuesday announced he is sending up to 200 Missouri National Guard members and 22 State Highway Patrol troopers to the Texas border with Mexico. The Republican governor made the announcement at a news conference in Jefferson City in which he blamed President Joe Bidens administration for its handling of immigration at the southern border and tied illegal immigration to the countrys fentanyl crisis. It all stems from the Biden administrations reckless, irresponsible and failing open-border policies, Parson said. With our southern border wide open, every state is now a border state. Parsons executive order sends Missouri law enforcement officers to help Texas, which has promoted a plan dubbed Operation Lone Star that uses Texas state resources to combat illegal border crossings. The move from Parson is noteworthy as roughly 250 Missouri National Guard members are already deployed to the southern border to work with the Biden administrations U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. The Texas initiative is separate from federal border enforcement activities. The dual efforts, which include a dispute between Texas and the federal government over the use of razor wire, have escalated into a broader standoff between state and federal officials. This will be a separate mission, Parson said, when asked about the two competing border efforts. This is in addition. When pressed on the fact that Missouri would have National Guard members working for both the federal government and Texas, Parson said Missouri would be under Texas blanket. But let me say this right now, even the federal employees there, the vast majority dont like whats going on, the border patrol dont like whats going on, he said. But they have to follow orders. The Republican governor told reporters on Tuesday that he is requesting roughly $2.3 million from Missouri lawmakers to foot the bill for the deployment. The highway Patrol troopers will deploy on March 1 and the National Guard members will start on March 10, he said. The announcement comes as Republicans across the country have sought to draw attention to the U.S.-Mexico border ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Federal agents have reported more than 285,000 encounters at the border from October through December, according to federal data. Parson made the announcement after visiting Texas earlier this month, where he met with Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and 13 other GOP governors. Missouri Republican lawmakers are also weighing bills that would allow prosecutors to criminally prosecute individuals in the United States illegally. While Republicans have called for stricter border control efforts, conservatives in the U.S. Senate earlier this month killed a bipartisan $118 billion plan. Missouris two senators, Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, voted against the deal. Earlier this month, Rep. Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, criticized Parson for tying the fentanyl crisis to illegal immigration, saying that Parson was scapegoating immigrants to distract from his inability or unwillingness to actually address them. Aune pointed to a report from the Cato Institute, a Libertarian think tank, that used 2021 sentencing data to show that a large majority of convicted fentanyl traffickers were U.S. citizens compared to undocumented immigrants. Parson on Tuesday said this data missed the point, calling it political spin. However, he did not directly refute the data. It doesnt matter who the smuggler is, Parson said. The issue is the Mexican cartels see little to no resistance in shipping fentanyl across our borders...Theyre going to get Americans, citizens to peddle these drugs. Cartels not going to come up here and set up in your town. But they will have people thats going to produce and try to sell you their supplies and our kids. The brazen coup attempt that took the life of Haitian President Jovenel Moise holds all the elements of a three-act Shakespearean tragedy: plots and subplots, ambition and betrayal, gore and death, all ensnaring the circle of people closest to him, including his wife. Martine Moise, who was wounded in the middle-of-the-night attack in the presidents home on July 7, 2021, was indicted Monday alongside several allies of her late husband. They include his former prime minister, the Haitian national police chief, the head of a state environmental security brigade, and an adviser so close to the fallen leader that Haitians jokingly refer to him as the vice president. The story of their alleged power grab pervades a 122-page indictment in which a Haitian investigative judge, Walther Wesser Voltaire, says there is enough evidence to charge 51 individuals, including the late presidents widow, and have them stand trial as either author, co-authors or accomplices in his killing. President Moise, Voltaire wrote in the indictment report first obtained by the Miami Herald, was supposed to be the most protected figure in the country, with his security ensured by at least three elite units of the Haiti National Police. Instead, the 53-year-old leader was shot dead in his room by attackers who did not face the slightest opposition or resistance [from police], so much so that no victims of scratches were recorded within these units, although they were responsible for ensuring the security of the president. Former first lady of Haiti, Martine Moise, stands by the casket of her slain husband, former President Jovenel Moise, during his funeral at his family home in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, Friday, July 23, 2021. Martine Moise was injured in the July 7 attack at their private home, and returned to Haiti following her release from a Miami hospital. An attorney representing Martine Moise insisted that she is innocent and the charges against her are politically motivated. She has no motivation for this attack, said attorney Paul Turner, who is representing the former first lady in a civil lawsuit in Miami against some of the defendants charged separately in a U.S. indictment. The Haitian government is deflecting attention away from the real culprits who bankrolled this attack, some of whom are still at large. These trumped-up charges by a kangaroo court against political opponents are a Stalinesque move by a wannabe dictator. It is saddening to see these tactics deployed against Mrs. Moise. Voltaires sprawling indictment contrasts sharply with the narrowly honed charges stemming from the FBIs parallel case in Miami, where only 11 defendants were charged with plotting the presidents assassination in South Florida, Haiti and Colombia. In the faster-moving Miami case, more than half of the defendants have pleaded guilty, with most facing up to life in prison. By comparison, Voltaires indictment depicts a more dramatic web of politics and tragedy, featuring a long list of suspects in Haiti, including Martine Moise, who lay seemingly dead from gunshot wounds after her husband was fatally shot a dozen times and and one of his eyes was gouged out. As the sound of assault rifles rang out in Moises hilltop Pelerin 5 neighborhood, the president frantically called for help. No one arrived in time: not the head of his palace security, Dimitri Herard; not the coordinator of his presidential security, Jean Laguel Civil, and not his police chief, Leon Charles. Days earlier, Moise had been warned about his security team and impending danger, but he did nothing. Its a reality that has stumped both Haitian investigators and those who tried to warn Moise of the developing coup attempt. In the months before he was assassinated, Moise was a man on edge, increasingly worried about his legacy. He was also growing distrustful of his inner circle, feared catching COVID-19 and stopped going to the National Palace, according to interviews and a journal the late president kept. READ MORE: On the verge of explosion: Violence, constitutional crisis push Haiti to the brink Moise was ruling by decree since dismissing Parliament with a tweet 18 months earlier. The United States wanted him to set a firm date for long-delayed elections. Opponents were marching against him in the streets, accusing the embattled leader of trying to become the regions next dictator while both his wife and his predecessor, Michel Martelly, vied to be anointed as his successor. As an Organization of American States mission prepared to visit in early June 2021 and pressed for the prompt appointment of a new prime minister who could help resolve a debilitating political and constitutional crisis, Moise jotted down names in his private journal. They included friends and foes. Interviews, testimony and documents exclusively reviewed by the Miami Herald portray a president who was not only under siege, seeing enemies in every corner, but of a leader with no idea of the poisonous atmosphere enveloping him. Five months earlier, on Feb. 7, 2021, Moise had victoriously declared he had survived an attempted assassination and coup attempt. The vast conspiracy, he said while announcing the arrest of 23 people, including a Supreme Court Justice, had been thwarted by his National Palace security. Two of those security chiefs, Laguel and Herard, are among those who have been indicted, along with Joseph Felix Badio. A former government consultant, Badio told the investigative judge he had been tasked by Moises justice minister to infiltrate the circle of plotters of Feb. 7, and the president was aware. The July sequel, Badio said while claiming his innocence, expanded upon the previously aborted attempt to overthrow Moise. A man walks by graffiti on a wall demanding justice for slain Haitian President Jovenel Moise in Petionville. Normally the street would fhave been be clogged with bumper-to-bumper traffic. But fear has many people staying off the streets or going home early. In his indictment, Voltaire focuses heavily on the coup he says was developing around Moise, leading to charges based on peoples actions or lack of actions before the assassination. Among them: the response of one of the presidents most trusted advisers, Ardouin Zephirin, on the night of the attack. Referred to as Haitis unofficial vice president, Zephirin was vague and nonchalant during his official interrogation as he explained that while the president had called him in distress, he missed the calls because he was sleeping. When Zephirin did wake up at 3 a.m. to accept a call from the former first lady, he did not return the presidents calls, the judge said, because Zephirin claimed to have forgotten the telephone number of the president. Zephirin was among those who had switched allegiance from the head of state to the first lady, according to Badio, a main suspect in the murder conspiracy. Martine Moise had her eye on the presidency as her husband neared the end of his term. READ MORE: From rebellious beginnings, Haiti has been beset by violence Badio described an atmosphere inside the national palace in which the people who were supposed to be protecting Moise were scheming to take him down. There were several teams plotting... the presidents ouster, Badio said during one of his interrogations by Haitian investigators. He also was interviewed by the FBI agents who were conducting the parallel investigation in Miami. One of the alleged plotters was Jeantel Joseph, the recently dismissed head of an armed environmental security brigade that has recently been campaigning for the ouster of Ariel Henry, who accepted Moises offer to be prime minister just days before the assassination. Joseph is accused of providing logistics to the Colombians involved in the attack, and according to Badio sought to be the next interior minister in a new post-Moise administration while pushing his own pick to replace the president. Badio said the presidents wife, Martine, had been in favor of keeping then-Prime Minister Claude Joseph in his role to organize a presidential election after her husbands removal that would lead to her ascendance as Haitis leader. Just two days before the deadly assault, the presidents wife spent hours clearing her things out of the National Palace, and two days afterward she told the palaces secretary general that her husband had not done anything for us as president and that she wanted to succeed him, Voltaires indictment says. Now we will have power, she reportedly said, according to the indictment. Several insiders told the Herald that the former first lady, who hinted at a presidential run following her husbands assassination, wanted to be president. Her political ambition was a contentious issue between the couple, and the president had suggested she run for the Senate instead. He even had a private poll done to prove she lacked popularity to become president, one of his advisers told the Herald. In his order, Voltaire mentioned the first ladys presidential ambitions several times while also noting that she had given contradictory statements. Among them, he cited, was that the mother of two had claimed to have taken refuge from the attackers under the bed she shared with her husband. But a visit to the premises, Voltaire said, revealed there was such little space under the bed at not even a giant rat could fit underneath. Julius Caesar Unlike Julius Caesar, the Roman leader who was assassinated by dozens of senators, Moise wasnt stabbed to death by fellow politicians envious of his power. Instead, those seeking his demise hired foreign hit men to do their bidding. A group of former Colombian soldiers were hired by a politically ambitious Haitian American pastor by the name of Christian Emmanuel Sanon, who sought to replace Haitis president, according to indictments filed in both Haiti and Miami. In Haiti, the Colombian commandos who were arrested after the coup testified that they were initially told they would be providing security for Sanon, who was working with a Miami-area firm, Counter Terrorist Unit Security, to bring a development project to Haiti to help launch his presidential aspirations. But after arriving in Haiti, the Colombians said they were eventually informed that their mission would be to serve an arrest warrant alongside Haitian police officers to oust Haitis president from office. The arrest warrant was at the core of the conspiracy, which evolved into an assassination plot in the days before the Haitian leader was slain, according to the indictments in Miami and Haiti. Despite doubts about the validity of the fabricated warrant, which was signed by an actual Haitian judge, it was nonetheless used by suspects in both Haiti and South Florida to carry out the ultimate scheme that led to the presidents death. In the weeks before the assassination, whispers circulated inside the presidents entourage about an impending coup, according to testimony gathered by Voltaire. At the same time, Moise was meeting with political operatives as he tried to decide who would be his next prime minister to replace Claude Joseph. Badio, a key Haitian government witness, said there was disagreement in the presidents inner circle about Moises choice of Henry, a 71-year-old neurologist, whose nomination as prime minister didnt become public until two weeks before the assassination. This was also around the same time German Alejandro Rivera Garcia, co-leader of the Colombian squad, said he learned the plan had shifted from arresting the president to killing him. Henry eventually accepted the job on July 3 and was to be sworn in days later. In between, the lead plotters decided to kill Moise on July 4, but pushed the plan back for three days, according to the indictment. Henry was eventually installed as prime minister after the presidents death and a power struggle with Claude Joseph. The struggle happened because an adviser to Moise hid the legal document naming Henry to the position, a source close to Henry said. The authors, co-authors and collaborators from near or far ... agreed for months to plan the seizure of power by coup detat against the then president ... by proceeding with his arrest or his physical elimination, wrote Port-au-Prince Chief Prosecutor Edler Guillaume in his report to the investigative judge. Guillaume stressed that Badio was at the scene where he even had conversations with some important people who planned, financed and executed such a plan. Badio moved undetected between those who despised the president and those who embraced him. After his arrest in October, Badio told Haitian investigators that in addition to the late presidents widow, others close to him played supporting roles in the assassination conspiracy: the former prime minister, Joseph, and ex-police chief, Charles. Both men have denied the allegations. Joseph, who is close to Martine Moise, accused Henry, the current prime minister, of using Haitis justice system to target political opponents like himself. Shifting blame from himself, Joseph told the Herald that every single report with respect to the assassination of President Jovenel Moise shows links between Felix Badio and Ariel Henry. By Kuba Stezycki OKOPY, Poland (Reuters) -Protests by Polish farmers sparked anger in neighbouring Ukraine on Tuesday, as Kyiv called on the European Commission to take robust action after demonstrators blockaded the border and opened railway carriages to let grain spill out. Warsaw has been a staunch supporter of Kyiv in its fight to repel a full-scale Russian invasion launched in 2022, but protests from farmers complaining of unfair competition have strained ties that were already on edge after truckers blocked border crossings around the turn of the year. Tuesday's protests from farmers marked an escalation from previous demonstrations, with a near-total blockade of all Ukrainian border crossings and disruption at ports and on roads nationwide. Television footage showed protesters at the Medyka border crossing opening railway carriages to allow grain to pour onto the tracks. "The scattering of Ukrainian grain on the railroad tracks is another political provocation aimed at dividing our nations," Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said in a post on X. Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said Kyiv has informed the European Commission of the actions of Polish protesters at the Ukrainian border and expected a robust response. Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said the grain was headed to Germany and would not have entered the Polish market. Polish President Andrzej Duda told Ukrainian Radio and the Suspilne broadcaster that the Polish government is negotiating with the farmers and trade unions and that he hopes the issue will be resolved through talks. "We are trying to solve this problem," Duda said, according to a transcript published on Tuesday on his presidential website. "This is a certain conflict of interests between farmers and producers of agricultural products in Ukraine - farmers who fear for their existence." Farmers across Europe have been demonstrating over a range of grievances, including constraints placed on them by European Union measures to tackle climate change, and what they say is unfair competition from abroad, particularly Ukraine, after an EU decision in 2022 to waive duties on Ukrainian food imports. Protesters' tractors carried banners that read: "With grain flowing from Ukraine, Polish farmers will go bankrupt". An organiser of the protest at Doruhusk crossing, Marcin Wielgosz, said buses would be allowed to cross once an hour on Tuesday, but no truck would pass from 0800 to 1800 local time. "In my opinion, the border should be closed. Procedures and systems should be clarified and then maybe it could reopen but not with the rules that we have now. Because right now you can bring whatever you want, however much you want ... into Poland," he told Reuters. COUNTER PROTEST Kyiv says its agricultural exports through eastern Europe have not damaged EU markets. Exasperated by the Polish protests, Ukrainian hauliers began their own round-the-clock counter-demonstration at three crossings. Their protest is planned to last till March 15. Images circulated by media outlets showed Ukrainian trucks at the border bearing banners with slogans such as "Ukraine loses - Poland loses" and "The blockade of Ukraine is a betrayal of European values". Poland's new pro-European government has supported the farmers' demands, trying to balance this with its strongly pro-Ukrainian stance. Deputy Agriculture Minister Michal Kolodziejczak told private broadcaster Polsat News that talks with Ukraine on limiting imports would continue on Wednesday. "Today the ball is in Ukraine's court," he said. "Either they want to come to an agreement with us, or we will have to introduce further restrictions." Ukraine says the blockades are affecting its defence capability and helping Russia's aims. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Monday the situation at the border demonstrated "the erosion of solidarity on a daily basis". (Reporting by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk, Alan Charlish, Pawel Florkiewicz in Warsaw, Yuliia Dysa in Gdansk, Pavel Polityuk in Kyiv; Additional reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Christopher Cushing) South Carolinians will cast their ballots in the Republican presidential primary Saturday, and despite candidate Nikki Haleys prior tenure as the states governor, polls point to former President Donald Trump as the likely victor. A February poll led by Suffolk University/USA TODAY published Tuesday morning showed that 63% likely South Carolina Republican primary voters surveyed plan to vote for Trump, while only 35% plan to vote for Haley. The poll was conducted between Feb. 15-18 and included 500 responses. A larger poll conducted between Feb. 13-15 of likely Republican primary voters in the state led by partisan Trafalgar Group also reported that 63% of responders said they plan to support Trump, compared to less than 34% who said they plan to support Haley. Voting in SC's Republican primary? How to check registration, where to vote. Former President Donald Trump arrived at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport Tuesday afternoon. He took a little time to greet his supporters who waited a couple of hours for his plane, Trump Force One, to land. Upstate voters largely support Trump over Haley compared to other regions Both candidates made appearances in the Upstate this week ahead of the weekends primary. Still, polling among Upstate residents specifically shows support for Trump. A poll from The Citadel School of Humanities and Social Sciences included a breakdown of likely South Carolina Republican voters by region. Residents in the Upstate were more likely than residents on the coast or in the Midlands to say theyd vote for Trump in the primary. Elections 2024: Trump and Haley in Greenville ahead of Republican primary Of Upstate residents who responded to The Citadel survey, 70% said they plan to vote for Trump, compared to only 25% who said they plan to vote for Haley. About 3% of Upstate residents who plan to vote in the primary said they have another candidate in mind, while 1% said they were unsure. Trump polls ahead Haley despite looming criminal charges National poll averages published by news and data site 538 show that nearly 78% of Americans planning to vote in the Republican primary intend to support Trump, compared to nearly 17% who said they plan to vote for Haley. Although Haleys polling numbers are higher in her home state than they are across the country, 70% of those planning to vote in the South Carolina Republican primary said they expect Trump to win by a large margin, according to the Citadels poll. Haley on Tuesday said that despite Trumps lead, she does not intend to drop out of the race. "I have no fear of Trumps retribution," Haley said during a Tuesday speech in Greenville. "Im not looking for anything from him." Analysis: Fearing Biden, Trump rematch, SC Democrats weigh crossing party lines in upcoming primary South Carolina favored Trump in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, where he received nearly about 55% of the states votes in each cycle. Ahead of the primary, Haley has made campaign stops throughout the state and frequently criticized the former president. The former governor recently made a joke about Trumps legal fees as he undergoes investigations on the sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live two days ahead of an appearance in Spartanburg. Trump currently faces 91 felony charges in four states, including allegations that he attempted to reverse results after his loss during the 2020 election. According to a poll from Monmouth University and The Washington Post, 88% of South Carolinians planning to support Trump in the primary believe he should stay on the ticket even if he is convicted of a crime related to the 2020 election. Voters support tougher immigration enforcement, platforms of both candidates Haleys polling numbers may be trailing Trumps, but her platform resonates with Upstate supporters according to the Suffolk University poll. In the Upstate, 42% of those who responded to the survey said immigration and border security were the most pressing concerns in the country. Throughout Haleys various South Carolina appearances, including a rally in Greer on Monday night, shes indicated she would crack down on border security. Haley frequently uses the line Instead of a catch and release, well do a catch and deport, when speaking at her events. Trump has also been a vocal supporter of large-scale deportation and border arrest programs. Ahead of his presidency, he claimed he would build a wall around the U.S. southern border, which he did not complete. The Suffolk University poll also showed that despite Trumps general lead, Haley was more popular among those planning to vote in the Republican primary who would lean more liberal or moderate. In both categories, 59% of those surveyed said theyd support Haley rather than Trump in the primary. Poll manager Bobby Simmons, left, assists Mike Mullinax as democratic early voting window is open, local voters at the Board of Voter Registration Elections of Anderson County office on Main Street in downtown Anderson, S.C. Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Polls show higher support for Trump among white voters More than 90% of those who responded to the Trafalgar Group survey were white, as were more than 84% of responders in the Suffolk University survey. In South Carolina, white residents make up nearly 69% of the state, while Black residents make up more than 26%. Asian residents account for 2% of the states population and Hispanic or Latino residents account for nearly 7%. As of Jan. 31, more than 3.24 million South Carolinians were registered to vote.Black voters accounted for 24.4% of registered voters in the state, Asian voters made up 1.3%, Hispanic residents made up slightly over 2% and Native American voters made up less than 1%. White voters accounted for 71% of registered voters in the state. 'I'm not going anywhere': Nikki Haley vows to keep fighting Donald Trump in 2024 GOP race Meanwhile, The Citadel poll showed a similar demographic divide in support for the former president. Among white responders, 63% had a somewhat or very favorable opinion of Trump, compared to only 14% of Black responders. A Trump victory Saturday could set up a likely rematch with incumbent President Joe Biden. Biden won the South Carolina Democratic primary at the beginning of February. The Associated Press called the race just over 20 minutes past the opening of the polls, with Biden sweeping about 96% of the vote. Sarah Swetlik covers climate change and environmental issues in South Carolina's Upstate for The Greenville News. Reach her at sswetlik@gannett.com or on X at @sarahgswetlik. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: SC primary polling: Haley trails Trump ahead of SC Republican voting Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine is set to enter its third year (AP) Vladimir Putins regime does not have sufficient domestic capacity to supply enough ammunition for his forces locked in the Ukraine war, western officials said on Wednesday. But they do not believe he has given up on his maximalist goals of subjugating Ukraine. However, they questioned whether Putin has a meaningful plan beyond continuing the conflict in the hope that his willingness to throw Russian manpower and equipment in sufficient quantity into the warzone will eventually pay off. Russias domestic ammunition production capabilities are currently insufficient for meeting the needs of the Ukraine conflict, said one western official. North Korea is reported to have been shipping large quantities of ammunition to Russia, and Iran to have provided hundreds of kamikaze drones. Putins regime has also reportedly been requisitioning military equipment which it was planning to send to other states. But Russian forces have seized the city of Avdiivka as Ukrainian troops, suffering ammunition and artillery shortages, were forced to withdrew. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told CNN that Avdiivka would not have fallen had Kyiv received weapons held up by the US Congress failure to approve a large aid package. The United States has provided Ukraine with about $111 billion (88 billion), largely in weapons but also equipment and humanitarian assistance, and a new aid package of $95 billion (75 billion) is stalled in Congress after passing the Senate, with Republicans blocking the move to further support Kyiv. Britain has urged Allies to continue to provide military, aid and diplomatic support to Ukraine to defeat Putin. After the failure of Ukraine to pierce Russian front lines in the east and south last year, Moscow has been trying to grind down Ukrainian forces just as Kyiv ponders a major new mobilisation. Meanewhile, European Union states on Wednesday approved a 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia, banning nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children. We must keep degrading Putins war machine, tweeted European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. We are also further cutting Russias access to drones. The new package will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from traveling to the EU or doing business there, but no fresh measures against specific economic sectors, EU diplomatic sources said. The sources said the focus of the listings is roughly split between entities and individuals that are part of Russias military industrial complex and those involved in trafficking and kidnapping Ukrainian children. One North Korean and one Belarusian firm were also added, the sources said. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court said last March that Russia had transferred at least hundreds of children from orphanages and care homes in occupied regions of Ukraine, and many have been given up for adoption. The ICC indicted officials including Putin for abducting Ukrainian children, which it called a war crime. Ukraine says Russia has removed more than 4,000 children. The new measures also focus on the procurement network supporting Russias military, especially the supply chain to make drones. Twenty-seven companies were added to the Annex IV list, which means European firms cannot sell dual-use goods to them. The companies added are mostly Russian and include three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company, the sources said. The package will be formally approved in time for the second anniversary of the start of Russias invasion of Ukraine on February 24. In eastern Ukraine, Russias top general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, visited Russian troops to discuss the next steps after capturing Avdiivka in the Donetsk province, state media reported on Wednesday. Putins forces seized the city after suffering heavy losses, with reports of more than 1,000 Russian soldiers killed or wounded in a single day. The Russian president said on Tuesday that his military would push further into Ukraine after the fall of Avdiivka. Gerasimov was shown awarding medals to Russian troops involved in taking Avdiivka and he was given a report by the commander in charge of the Russian assault, Colonel-General Andrei Mordvichev, state media said. A Gila monster is displayed at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Dec. 14, 2018. Gila monster bites are often painful to humans, but normally aren't deadly, experts say. A 34-year-old man in Colorado died earlier this month, days after one of his 2 pet Gila monsters bit him, the Lakewood Police said. Police said Tuesday that Jeffcom, an emergency communications center in Jefferson County, received a 911 call with regards "to an animal bite" around 11:45 p.m. on Feb. 12. The bite was later determined to be that of a pet Gila monster and the victim was transported to the hospital, where he died four days later. The victim was not identified, and the police said his family has requested privacy. "This was a medical only call that evening, and agents did not respond out that evening," said the police. "Unfortunately, the 34-year-old male victim did not survive over the weekend." The next day, Lakewood Animal Control Officers with the assistance of Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife responded to the home and removed the two Gila monsters to take them to a wildlife facility in another state, said the police. Twenty-six spiders, all of different species, were also present at the victim's home and were taken by animal control, a police spokesperson told USA TODAY, adding that the animals were being kept illegally and are "not allowed in the City of Lakewood". What is a Gila monster? This Gila monster is part of the Cincinnati Zoo Babies month - May 2023 - at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. Native to southwestern U.S. and Mexico, Gila monsters are venomous reptiles and are one of the only two venomous lizards in the world, according to the San Diego Wildlife Alliance. The largest lizards in the U.S., they are named after the Gila River in Arizona and are solitary creatures that live in desert and semi-desert areas. They are protected under Arizona law and are classified as "near-threatened species," in the country as per Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. Despite being poisonous, the Gila lizard bites are not normally fatal for humans, though they can be very painful. Exact cause of death to be determined by toxicology testing The Jefferson County Coroner's Office confirmed the death to CBS Colorado, saying that while an autopsy was conducted on the victim, the exact cause of death won't be known until further toxicology testing is completed. The coroner's office did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for information. Last known fatal case was in 1930 Dr. Nick Brandehoff, a medical toxicologist and reptile expert with the Asclepius Snakebite Foundation, who was consulted on the Lakewood case told CBS Colorado that such an incident was incredibly rare. "The vast majority of bites cause local swelling and bleeding. The last case I have been able to find was [in] 1930 and that was not even a medical journal case," Dr Brandehoff told CBS. "I think this case highlights that any venomous animals should be respected." The Gila monster, who bit its owner, will be taken to a lab in Greeley at the University of Northern Colorado, where its venom will be extracted and studied to get a clearer understanding of how it caused the man's death, Brandehoff told CBS. Brandehoff said experts will "look at the venom components and see if there is some reason this might occur." The reptile expert added that he suspects the victim may have had an allergic reaction to the Gila monster's venom, which may have caused his death. However, he said that it is too early in the investigation to tell. Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gila monster pet bites, kills Colorado man who owned venomous reptile New satellite images show the scale of a massive oil slick spilling from a capsized vessel near Trinidad and Tobago, with oil continuing to flow to other regions across the Caribbean Sea. Workers are struggling to contain the leak from the barge that sank about 500 feet off Tobago island on 7 February, carrying as much as 35,000 barrels of fuel. Oil leaking from the vessel has turned the beaches of the island black during the peak tourist season around Carnival, prompting what the prime minister of the twin-island nation called a national emergency. During the cleanup operation a black plastic bag containing more than a kilogram of cocaine estimated to have a street value of around $75,000 was found washed up on a beach near the grounded tanker, the authorities said on Monday. Police are not linking the discovery to the oil spill at this stage. Before and after satellite images from the European Space Agency (ESA) show a long and thick black slick of oil flowing across the Caribbean, continuously expanding as it spreads. The second image captured by the satellite on 14 February shows the oil spill travelled over 160km westwards, the ESA said. Satellite image from European Space Agency shows black slick of oil visible from space (European Space Agency) Photo on the left shows Tobagos shore before oil spill on 7 February, with the other two photos showing the black slick visible on 7 and 14 February (European Space Agency) Authorities are still unsure of the origin of the ship, the kind of oil leaking from the vessel or how much of it remains. The Trinidad and Tobago government is urging the barges owner to step forward and take responsibility for the disaster. The oil last week reached Grenadas waters and poses a potential threat to neighbouring Venezuela. Venezuelas foreign affairs ministry said that the country was monitoring the spill and has initiated meetings with Trinidads government to coordinate action. The vessel a barge being pulled by a tugboat was found without any information about its origins or owner on board. It is believed to have been headed for Guyana when it ran aground. Environmental officials said the spill has damaged a reef and several popular beaches, a blow for both the islands environment and its tourism industry during the Carnival season. Oil spills in the ocean typically have much wider impacts than spills on land and can be disastrous for marine life and ecosystems. Coated in oil, animals can be killed by poisoning or suffocation. Oil and oceans dont mix, and this disastrous oil spill from an overturned vessel off Trinidad and Tobago is the latest destructive example, said Alexcia Best, campaign associate for ocean conservancy group Oceana. Oil spills have dangerous impacts on oceans, fisheries, people, and coastal economies that last for years. UN officials believe they are only hearing about a fraction of those experiencing gender-based violence - MOHAMMED ABED/AFP via Getty Images The number of Palestinian women and girls subjected to sexual violence during Israels invasion of Gaza may be higher than first reported, a UN expert has said. On Monday, experts from the UN Human Rights Council said they had received credible reports of rape, sexual assault and naked strip searches among the hundreds of women and girls detained by Israeli authorities since October 7. The experts said two female detainees had been allegedly raped, while others were threatened with sexual violence. They also noted that photos of women in degrading circumstances had been taken by the Israeli army and uploaded online. However, one of the UN officials involved in investigating the reports expressed her concern that more allegations of sexual violence inside secret Israeli detention centres, located in Gaza, the West Bank and Israel, were to follow. We have reasons to believe that the actual numbers of those that may have experienced gender-based violence including sexual assault and rape may be higher, said Reem Alsalem, the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls. She explained that such incidents are underreported for a number of reasons, including fear of reprisals as well as fear of stigma. There have been reports of arbitrary executions of Palestinian women in Gaza as they were fleeing or seeking refuge - MOHAMMED ABED/AFP via Getty Images The allegations come as Israeli authorities released an official report, the first of its kind, on the alleged sadistic sex crimes committed by Hamas militants against Israeli citizens on October 7, including mass rapes and the mutilation of women. Published on Tuesday by the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel and shared with the UN, the report analyses public and confidential testimonies, eyewitness accounts and interviews with victims and first responders. The Telegraph understands the UNs own reports of sexual violence are based on accounts provided by Palestinian female detainees, as well as information obtained via human rights organisations that represent alleged victims. The full details of the allegations including the locations of the different human rights violations have been outlined in a letter shared with the Israelis and other governments. In line with Human Rights Council policy, the letter will be made publicly available after two months. This is expected to be in early April. We hope that governments that receive our letters also respond to the allegations contained and also take the action that is expected of them which is to put an end to these violations, carry out an independent and effective investigation, and hold those accountable, said Ms Alaslem. The Telegraph has not been able to independently verify the allegations. Palestinian women caged and executed In their statement published on Monday, the UN experts also said female detainees had reportedly been severely beaten and denied sanitary products, food, and medicine. On at least one occasion, Palestinian women detained in Gaza were allegedly kept in a cage in the rain and cold, the statement added. There have been reports, too, of arbitrary executions of Palestinian women in Gaza as they were fleeing or seeking refuge, often together with family members, including their children. According to the UN experts, some of them were reportedly holding white pieces of cloth when they were killed by the Israeli army or affiliated forces. Ms Alsalem said the thousands of Palestinians detained in Gaza since the beginning of the war, including women and girls, had been classified by Israel as illegal combatants. For years, Palestinians have been arrested by Israeli authorities without formal charges, known as administrative detention, whereby suspects can be held for months or even years without trial. These individuals have been held in facilities such as Ofer Prison, an Israeli incarceration centre located in the West Bank. The prison has been a subject of concern for decades due to documented cases of human rights violations, including instances of torture. Reports of historic sexual violence against male Palestinian detainees by Israeli soldiers and prison officers have also been well-documented, including sexual harassment, forced nudity, rape, and purposeful injury to genitalia. Before October 7, approximately 1,300 Palestinians were held under administrative detention, but recent reports from human rights groups show that number has surged to more than 2,200. Detainees are reportedly prevented from meeting their lawyers for up to 80 days, added Ms Alaslem. On Tuesday, Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US State Department, acknowledged the recent allegations of sexual assault against Palestinian women by Israeli authorities, but said the US were unable to independently confirm the reports. Last week, the US Congress condemned the alleged rape and mutilation of Israeli women by Hamas militants during the October 7 attacks, in which 1,200 people were killed. In response to the UN experts statement, Israels mission to the UN in Geneva said it forcefully rejects the latest allegations as despicable and unfounded claims. It added: The State of Israel will continue to abide by its obligations under international law. No complaint has been received by Israeli authorities but Israel remains ready to investigate any concrete claims of misconduct by its security forces when presented with credible allegations and evidence. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security 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. Sue Ann Arnall was the last remaining original member of the nine-member jail trust until her resignation on Monday. It is too soon to gauge what the fallout from Monday's resignation of Sue Ann Arnall from Oklahoma County's Criminal Justice Authority will be on efforts to reform Oklahoma County's jail. But Arnall's decision to leave the trust that runs the jail delivers a gut punch to reform supporters who might question how involved she will remain in financially supporting many of those efforts. It also broadly indicts a jail funding system that clearly has failed to support both detainees held inside of the building and those who work there. Since opening in 1992, Oklahoma County's current, long-troubled jail has been cited for numerous health and safety violations by state and federal authorities. By 2019, continued problems prompted Oklahoma County's Board of County Commissioners to appoint a new trust to take on responsibilities for operating the jail from Oklahoma County's sheriff. Arnall, an attorney who got her start as a public defender and who founded the Arnall Family Foundation in 2015, was the last remaining original member of the nine-member trust, a group of all-star group of community leaders who all expressed hopes that they could make the jail safer for both its employees and the people held inside the building. More: Living Hell: The Oklahoma County jail But, conditions inside the jail for employees and detainees did not noticeably improve after the trust took responsibility for its operations in July 2020. Instead, it became one of the deadliest jails in the country with more than 40 of its detainees dying, including seven in 2023 alone. Since opening in 1992, Oklahoma County's current, long-troubled jail has been cited for numerous health and safety violations by state and federal authorities. Will Arnall's resignation impact her support for criminal justice reforms? It was unclear Tuesday what Arnall's resignation would mean for her support of reforms, but she continues to serve on the Oklahoma County Criminal Advisory Council. She also financially supports various programs aimed at reforming criminal justice programs across Oklahoma through a foundation she created. Recently awarded gifts have included: $5 million to fund the Healthy Minds Healthy Lives Foundation's support to Oklahoma's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services as it builds a new mental health center in Oklahoma City. $5 million to the Homeless Alliance to support ongoing operations. $2,255,777.60 to the Oklahoma County Diversion Hub to help financially support its $17 million MAPS 4-authorized relocation plan. $1,482,250 to the Oklahoma County Diversion Hub to help pay for the needed land for its relocation. $1,132,739 to The Employment and Education Ministry for an employment navigation pretrial release initiative program. $1,015,673.81 to the Oklahoma County Diversion Hub to support its diversion referral programs. Tens of millions of dollars more in gifts have been made through Arnall's foundation. Sue Ann Arnall stated within her resignation letter she repeatedly has been told Oklahoma County does not have the money it needs to be able to safely operate its jail. Funding complaints, project priorities cited by Arnall in her letter Oklahoma County is the only one in the state that does not have a voter-approved county sales tax that generates revenues to support jail operations and other services. Arnall stated within her resignation letter she repeatedly has been told Oklahoma County does not have the money it needs to be able to safely operate its jail, which she said currently operates with only half the number of employees the National Institute of Corrections recommends. Starting salaries for those who are working at the jail are less than 75% of what their law enforcement counterparts with the same qualifications are being paid, she wrote. "It is simply impossible to hire the necessary number of detention officers at the current starting salary and the funds approved and allocated to the jail by the Oklahoma County Budget Board," she wrote. She also expressed frustration the jail trust never could convince the county to allocate $1.5 million to remodel the jail's booking intake area so people could be processed through the area more quickly and safely. Instead, she said the county's budget board in 2013 prioritized a $17.5 million remodel of the Krowse Building (including about $5 million in ARPA funds), which Oklahoma County began using as the new home for its sheriff's department in 2020. "We have all witnessed the consequences that occur when adequate funding for the jail is not prioritized, but we have yet to see the change that I believe is possible if the appropriate resources are allocated and the needs of the staff and detainees are met," she wrote. Oklahoma County Commissioners are addressed by a speaker at a meeting in 2023. Commissioners, others react to Arnall's departure Two of Oklahoma County's elected commissioners said Tuesday they were sorry to see Arnall leave the trust. I am disappointed to hear of her resignation as a trustee (but also) extremely grateful for Ms. Arnalls service on the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Authority," said Commissioner Carrie Blumert. "Her passion to make our criminal justice system more equitable and treatment focused is very needed at Oklahoma County. ... I look forward to continuing working with her on jail diversion programs and anything that helps folks navigate our justice system. Commissioner Myles Davidson said Arnall's decision to leave the trust will leave an immeasurable impact. "Sue Ann Arnall has been influential from the beginning of the trust's formation," he said. "I share her disappointment in the ongoing issues regarding the current jail and hope to resolve these problems soon." Commissioner Brian Maughan did not provide The Oklahoman with a statement. The advisory council that Arnall continues to serve, meanwhile, is happy she will continue forward in that role. From her work on the trust, to the Diversion Hub to other ways she has expanded pre-trial diversions, Ms. Arnall has dedicated her time, energy and philanthropic funding to helping numerous people caught in the criminal legal system. We are grateful she will still be around continuing to push forward more changes to help more people, said Timothy Tardibono, the advisory council's executive director. Some jail funding issues Oklahoma County has experienced come from difficulties it has experienced in getting adequately compensated by Oklahoma City for the services it provides to that police department's arrestees. Former Oklahoma House Speaker Kris Steele, R-Shawnee, today leads The Employment and Education Ministry in Oklahoma City. Like Arnall, he recognizes jail funding issues are a problem. "I think it is problematic that Oklahoma County does not have a dedicated source of revenue to adequately sustain the operations and staffing needs within its detention center," Steele said. "As a result, funding priorities have become political and extremely subjective. "I just think that at the end of the day, prioritizing services, programming, adequate staffing, safety and care for those who may be detained within our community should be a priority," Steele said. "We are talking about basic care for human beings who live in our county. That is exactly what Sue Ann is communicating in her letter." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma County jail funding remains a question after trustee resigns The Dow Jones Industrial Average is underperforming the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite year to date. But there are 10 dividend-paying Dow components that reached new all-time intraday and closing highs within the last month. Of the 10, The Home Depot (NYSE: HD) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) stand out as the best dividend stocks to buy now. Here's why. Image source: Getty Images. New heights Investor optimism and growing earnings helped the following 10 Dow components reach new all-time highs in recent weeks. Company Intraday High Date Intraday High Price Closing High Date Closing High Price Visa Jan. 31 $279.99 Feb. 7 $278.87 JPMorgan Chase Jan. 31 $178.30 Jan. 30 $176.27 Caterpillar Feb. 5 $334.87 Feb. 7 $323.59 Amgen Feb. 5 $329.72 Feb. 1 $324.56 Merck & Co. Feb. 7 $128.06 Feb. 7 $127.47 Microsoft Feb. 9 $420.82 Feb. 9 $420.55 American Express Feb. 9 $214.25 Feb. 9 $212.47 The Home Depot Feb. 12 $368.72 Feb. 12 $365.45 The Travelers Companies Feb. 12 $216.56 Feb. 12 $215.95 Walmart Feb. 13 $171.07 Feb. 12 $170.30 Data source: Yahoo! Finance. Table by author. Over half of Dow components are hovering around their 52-week highs, but all-time highs are a different story. For example, Intel is still far from its all-time high, which occurred when the dot-com bubble burst. International Business Machines is around 15% away from its all-time high from March 2013. Home Depot is a foundational holding Home Depot has been a secular growth story hiding in plain sight. Its revenue growth has nearly mirrored the increase in the Case-Shiller Home Price Index. The index tracks the value of the U.S. residential real estate market. Over the last 10 years, the index is up 91.9%, while Home Depot's revenue is up 93.7%. Meanwhile, over the last five years, the index is up 50.9%, and Home Depot's revenue is up 40.2%. HD Operating Margin (TTM) Chart Home Depot's top-line growth, paired with margin expansion, has opened the door to stronger earnings and made the company a better value. A 14.5% operating margin for a high-volume retailer is nothing short of incredible. Story continues For context, Lowe's has a 12.8% operating margin, Target is 4.7%, and Costco Wholesale has a mere 3.4% margin. Supporting a high margin requires effective supply chain management, forecasting, inventory management, cost management, and brand power. Home Depot has it all in spades. Home Depot is an excellent business, but it is also a solid stock. The company's dividend is up more than 53% in the last five years, and it has raised it every year (except in 2008 and 2009) since 1988. Home Depot also buys back a lot of stock, which has reduced its share count and improved its earnings per share. At just a 23 price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, Home Depot is a great overall value in an expensive market. Microsoft isn't overvalued despite its surging stock price Out of all the Dow dividend stocks making new all-time highs, Microsoft is perhaps the best example of why earnings growth can make what looks to be an overbought stock a fair price. There's a lot of talk about how artificial intelligence (AI) is going to accelerate growth for many tech companies. Microsoft has that potential as well, but it also has incredibly high-margin, established businesses. In its recent quarter, Productivity and Business Processes had a 53.4% operating margin, its Intelligent Cloud business unit had a 48.2% operating margin, and its hardware-oriented More Personal Computing segment had a 25.4% operating margin. Microsoft isn't a company whose growth is based entirely on future prospects. It has a roster of established businesses that are doing well right now. Microsoft's true growth engine is its Intelligent Cloud segment. Developers are building solutions on Microsoft Azure's OpenAI Service. Microsoft made the service available in January 2023. Since then, it has acted as a sandbox for securely building and testing applications. To quote Microsoft's fiscal 2023 annual report: Our cloud business benefits from three economies of scale: datacenters that deploy computational resources at significantly lower cost per unit than smaller ones; datacenters that coordinate and aggregate diverse customer, geographic, and application demand patterns, improving the utilization of computing, storage, and network resources; and multi-tenancy locations that lower application maintenance labor costs. In short, Intelligent Cloud is the segment that includes all of Microsoft's server products and cloud services, from Microsoft Azure to GitHub, as well as enterprise services like Microsoft Consulting. In the first half of fiscal 2024, Intelligent Cloud generated more revenue and operating income than in all of fiscal 2020 -- while also sporting impressive operating margin growth. Intelligent Cloud Q1 and Q2 Fiscal 2024 Fiscal 2023 Fiscal 2022 Fiscal 2021 Fiscal 2020 Revenue $50.14 billion $87.91 billion $74.97 billion $60.08 billion $48.37 billion Operating Income $24.21 billion $37.88 billion $33.2 billion $26.13 billion $18.32 billion Operating Margin 48.3% 43.1% 44.3% 43.5% 37.9% Data source: Microsoft. Even crazier -- Intelligent Cloud in the first half of fiscal 2024 generated nearly the same operating income as all of Microsoft in fiscal 2013. Microsoft's diluted earnings per share are up 145.8% in the last five years, over 50% in the last three years, and nearly 20% in the last year. Microsoft has a 36.8 P/E ratio, which seems high. But it's not that high if Microsoft can keep growing earnings at 15% to 20% per year. If a company grows earnings at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20% per year, its earnings will roughly double in four years and triple in six years. A 15% CAGR will result in earnings doubling in five years and tripling in eight years. Earnings growth is never that steady. But in general, a company that can sustain growth over time will be a good investment even if the valuation is expensive today. If Microsoft can grow earnings at a CAGR of 15% per year, its current P/E ratio will start to look very cheap very quickly if the stock price languishes. I think the investment approach to Microsoft is fairly straightforward. It's a play on AI without the risks that come with investing in a company valued entirely on its future earnings. I'd also argue Microsoft isn't overvalued right now. If the earnings growth rate starts slipping, it would be a different story. But there's no sign of that now. Microsoft has a 0.7% dividend yield, which sounds low. But the stock is up over 280% in the last five years, which has compressed the yield. Microsoft remains committed to the dividend, which has more than doubled over the last eight years. Except for 2010, Microsoft has raised its dividend every year for the last 20 years. Even if Microsoft stock falters, investors can still count on the dividend to keep growing for decades. Two quality companies you can count on Home Depot and Microsoft are two completely different businesses. But they both benefit from having strong brands, solid growth, margin expansion, and -- most importantly -- both companies simply execute when the stakes are high. Good companies have a way of justifying a premium valuation over time. That has applied to Home Depot and Microsoft, and there's no reason to think it shouldn't still apply with both stocks at all-time highs. Investors looking for strong companies they can count on should consider Home Depot and Microsoft over the other eight Dow dividend stocks that just made all-time highs. Should you invest $1,000 in Home Depot right now? Before you buy stock in Home Depot, 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 Home Depot 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 20, 2024 JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. American Express is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Daniel Foelber has positions in Target and has the following options: long November 2024 $130 calls on Target and short November 2024 $135 calls on Target. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale, Home Depot, JPMorgan Chase, Merck, Microsoft, Target, Visa, and Walmart. The Motley Fool recommends Amgen, Intel, International Business Machines, and Lowe's Companies and recommends the following options: long January 2023 $57.50 calls on Intel, long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel, long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft, short February 2024 $47 calls on Intel, and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Should You Buy the 10 Dow Dividend Stocks That Just Made New All-Time Highs? was originally published by The Motley Fool The Supreme Courts approval rating has plunged to one of its lowest levels yet ahead of a ruling on Donald Trumps eligibility to run for president. The approval rating of the nations highest court stands at 40 per cent, according to the latest poll released by Marquette Law School on Wednesday. The latest numbers rival only those of July 2022, when only 38 per cent of US adults said they approved of the Supreme Court and 61 per cent disapproved just after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade. The overall rating remains largely unchanged from November last year, when 41 per cent of respondents approved of the institution. However, the latest numbers represent a dramatic drop from 2020, when 66 per cent of respondents approved and 33 per cent disapproved. Among Democrats, the latest poll numbers are even more dismal, with just 27 per cent saying they approve of the court and 73 per cent saying they disapprove of it. That is a dramatic drop from the 60 per cent approval and 39 per cent disapproval rating among Democrats in 2020. The Supreme Courts approval rating has plunged to one of its lowest levels ye (EPA) Meanwhile, 57 per cent of Republicans said they approve of the Supreme Court in the latest poll, while 43 per cent said they disapprove. In 2020, 78 per cent said they approve of the nations highest court, while 20 per cent disapproved. The latest iteration of the poll was conducted between 5 and 15 February a period that saw the nine justices hear arguments concerning Mr Trumps eligibility to stay on the primary ballot in Colorado. In December, the Supreme Court in Colorado ruled that the former president is ineligible to run in 2024 because of the 14th amendments ban on insurrectionists while holding office and Mr Trumps conduct on 6 January 2021, when he attempted to overturn the result of the 2020 election. Section 3 of the 14th amendment of the constitution prohibits anyone who engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding public office. Shenna Bellows, Maines secretary of state, quickly followed by disqualifying Mr Trump from the ballot for similar reasons. Maines Superior Court has so far declined to issue a ruling on the matter, instead waiting for the US Supreme Courts ruling around Mr Trumps future on the ballot in Colorado. Donald Trump is facing a raft of legal cases (Getty Images) So far, the Supreme Court justices have appeared to doubt the state of Colorados authority to strike Mr Trump from the ballot without permission from Congress, with Chief Justice John Roberts arguing that allowing states to have that control would be at war with the Constitution. However, the case still hangs in the balance, with the courts justices expected to release opinions on several cases in the coming days. In a separate case, the Supreme Court is also set to decide whether to intervene in the dispute over whether Mr Trump can claim immunity from prosecution for his role in the January 6 insurrection. While the former president has claimed presidential immunity protects him from virtually all acts committed while in office, the US Court of Appeals disagreed, arguing in a unanimous decision that any executive immunity that may have protected him while he served as president no longer protects him against this prosecution. Mr Trump has asked the Supreme Court to temporarily block the ruling, arguing that it will radically disrupt his ability to campaign against President Biden in the 2024 election. If the Supreme Court opts to consider the former presidents immunity arguments, it will place the institution at the centre of one of the nations most politically charged and polarising cases ahead of the 2024 general election. The Marquette survey interviewed 1,003 adults nationwide and had a margin of error of +/-4.3 percentage points. From its humble beginnings in 1987 in two small rooms tucked behind the Baptist Hospital Emergency Center to developing technologies and treatments that have changed the course of cardiovascular medicine worldwide, Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute is primed for its next move to expand and elevate cardiovascular services. Spearheading the ambitious growth initiative is the Institutes new leader, Tom C. Nguyen, M.D., FACS, FACC. In his role as chief medical executive and Barry T. Katzen Endowed Chair of Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, where he is also the director of Minimally Invasive Valve Surgery, Dr. Nguyen plans to focus on research and innovation with patient-centered care at the Institutes core. Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, whose experts have pioneered many innovative and less invasive cardiovascular procedures, recently opened a new cardiovascular care office that includes a dedicated arrhythmia center, the first of its kind in South Florida and one of the few in the U.S. Building upon the Institutes strong foundation, Dr. Nguyen will continue to strengthen teams that will enable the launch of other new programs such as robotic heart surgery. To best serve the needs of the community and make Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute the crown jewel of South Florida and beyond, we will be exploring new services and recruiting the best cardiothoracic surgeons and other specialists from around the world, he says. With a passion for minimally invasive surgery and for treating valvular heart disease, Dr. Nguyen has spent more than 20 years researching the mitral valve and has published more than 300 peer-reviewed articles. He comes to South Florida from the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), where he was chief of cardiothoracic surgery and the Charles Schwab Distinguished Professor of Surgery. While at UCSF, he transformed the cardiothoracic surgery program as co-director of its Heart and Vascular Center. Growing up, Dr. Nguyen never imagined hed be an internationally recognized cardiothoracic surgeon. A political refugee whose family fled Vietnam when he was only 4, he believes life is about opportunities, second chances and paying it forward. His experience left him vowing to always fight for the underdog and the sickest of the sick, particularly when patients are told that they have no options left. Everyone deserves a second chance, he says. When my dad and older sister and I came to Houston, we spoke no English. We were very poor and lived on rice, eggs and soy sauce, he recalls. His father, who was always his role model, had been in the military and was also an engineer in Vietnam. In the U.S., he took whatever job he could find. He worked as a welder. He worked at a convenience store. One day while working at the store, Dr. Nguyens father was shot in the shoulder during a robbery. He survived and eventually established a large nonprofit organization that assists other immigrants, a job that Dr. Nguyens brother embraced when their father later died. At a young age, Dr. Nguyen realized that their close-knit community cared deeply for each other. Neighborhood nannies stepped in to watch children while parents worked. Helping hands were never far away. From this, he became aware that his success was not his own doing but was the result of support systems, luck and many mentors. Dr. Nguyen graduated from Rice University with honors in economics and then attended the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He completed a general surgery residency at Stanford University, a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at Columbia Presbyterian and a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) fellowship at Emory University. As an innovative heart surgeon, he has performed many first-in-man operations. I had the chance to go back to Vietnam for the first time after I completed medical school, he says. One morning at the crack of dawn, I saw a young man working tirelessly on a shrimping boat. We were about the same age. I wasnt stronger or smarter. I was just luckier. Because of its complexities and challenges, cardiac surgery was of particular interest to Dr. Nguyen. I can zone out and get laser-focused, he explains. There are at least 100 critical steps in heart surgery with small margins of error. You need to be composed in the most chaotic environment. Everyone has a role, and every person is vital to the team. You cant be duplicating efforts. If we work together as a team, we are unstoppable. He and his wife, interventional radiologist Gina Landinez, M.D., are the parents of two young girls. As someone who is keenly aware of womens contributions to society, he is an active advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. The stories of hardship and the obstacles overcome by many immigrants and marginalized people resonate with Dr. Nguyen and give him special reason to appreciate the diversity of South Florida and that of his patients and their families. My experience shaped me as a doctor, he says. Its a privilege and an honor to care for patients who have put all of their trust in you. When a patient comes back to me and says, Ive gone fishing again, or Heres a picture of me hiking, that is amazing. Getting them back to their families is magical. MOSCOW, RUSSIA - FEBRUARY 20 (RUSSIA OUT) Russian President Vladimir Putin reacts during the Strong Ideas For The New Times Forum, on February 20, 2024 in Moscow, Russia. Putin visited a forum, hosted by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives prior to the 2024 Presidential Election, planned on March. (Photo by Contributor/Getty Images) BERLIN U.S. intelligence agencies have told their closest European allies that if Russia is going to launch a nuclear weapon into orbit, it will probably do so this year but that it might instead launch a harmless dummy warhead into orbit to leave the West guessing about its capabilities. The assessment came as U.S. intelligence officials conducted a series of rushed, classified briefings for their NATO and Asian allies, as details of the U.S. assessment of Russias intentions began to leak out. The U.S. intelligence agencies are sharply divided in their opinion about what President Vladimir Putin is planning, and on Tuesday Putin rejected the accusation that he intended to place a nuclear weapon in orbit and his defense minister said the intelligence warning was manufactured in an effort to get Congress to authorize more aid for Ukraine. Sign up for The Morning newsletter from the New York Times During a meeting with the defense minister, Sergei Shoigu, Putin said Russia had always been categorically against placing nuclear weapons in space, and had respected the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which prohibits weaponizing space, including the placement of nuclear weapons in orbit. We not only call for the observance of the existing agreements that we have in this area, he was quoted as saying by the Russian state media, but we have proposed many times to strengthen these joint efforts. On Wednesday, Putin reinforced the central role he believes Russias nuclear arsenal plays in the countrys defenses. Visiting an aviation factory, he climbed into the bomb bay of a Tu-160M strategic bomber, the most modern in the Russian fleet. Putin has made no secret of his interest in upgrading Russias Cold War-era delivery systems, such as the bomber, which can reach the United States and is designed to carry two dozen nuclear weapons. And he has advertised a fleet of new weapons some still in development including the unmanned Poseidon nuclear torpedo, which was designed to cross the Pacific, with no human control, to explode on the West Coast of the United States. (Russia has been less transparent about the accidents that have accompanied the testing of these new weapons.) But a space weapon would be different. Unlike the rest of the Russian or American arsenals, it would not be designed to hit cities or military sites, or any place on Earth. Instead, it would be nested inside a satellite, capable of destroying swarms of commercial and military satellites circulating alongside it in low-Earth orbit, including those such as Starlink that are remaking global communications capabilities. It was Ukraines ability to connect its government, its military and its leadership over Starlink that played a critical role in the countrys survival in the first months after the Russian invasion, two years ago this week. According to two senior officials briefed on the intelligence assessment that the United States has provided to allies, U.S. officials have said that Putin may believe that the mere threat of massive disruption even if it meant blowing up Russias own satellites might infuse his nuclear arsenal with a new kind of deterrent. Bloomberg reported earlier that the allies were told that a launch could come this year. If the Tu-160 bomber that Putin clambered aboard Wednesday ever dropped its bombs on the United States or a NATO nation, the retaliation would likely be swift. But Putin, the U.S. analysts have told their counterparts, may believe that the old Cold War doctrine of mutually assured destruction would not apply in space: No one would risk a war over blowing up satellites, especially if there were no human casualties. But U.S. officials admit they have low confidence in their own analysis of whether Putin is really prepared to launch a nuclear weapon into orbit. They have concluded that Russia tested such a system in early 2022, about the time that Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine. But it took some time for U.S. intelligence agencies to determine that test was a practice run for putting a nuclear weapon into orbit. Now those agencies are divided in their assessment of what may come next. Some believe Putin might launch a dummy weapon, but leave it unclear whether it was fake or real making a response all the more difficult. But the concern in Washington is high enough that Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned his Chinese and Indian counterparts last weekend that if a nuclear weapon were ever detonated in low-Earth orbit, it would take out their satellites, too. He urged them to use their influence with Putin to prevent the weapon from ever being deployed. Shoigu, the defense chief, said Tuesday that Russia was not violating the 1967 treaty, but he stopped short of talking about plans. We do not have any nuclear weapons deployed in space, or elements of nuclear weapons being used on satellites, or fields created to stop satellites working effectively, he said, according to Russian media reports. We dont have any of that, and they know that we dont, but they are still making noise, he continued, at the meeting with Putin. The reason why the West is making this noise consists of two things: first, to scare senators and congressmen, to extract funding supposedly not just for Ukraine, but also to counter Russia and to subject it to strategic defeat. And second, in our view they would like to push us so clumsily into restarting a dialogue on strategic stability, he said, a reference to talks that were briefly underway before the invasion of Ukraine about devising a successor to the New START treaty, which limits the number of overall weapons that the U.S. and Russia can deploy. The treaty expires in two years. Those discussions also delved into new kinds of weapons and new technologies, including artificial intelligence, that could pose new nuclear threats. But the talks ended with the invasion of Ukraine, and have never resumed. c.2024 The New York Times Company Semafor Signals Insights from The Moscow Times and Meduza The News The U.K. imposed sanctions on several Russian prison chiefs after the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, a day after France called for an independent probe into the activists death. The move came as the U.S. announced it would also unveil sanctions targeting Russian officials after the 47-year-old critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin died on Friday at an Arctic penal colony. The U.K. said it has frozen the assets of six prison bosses in charge of the colony where Navalny was serving a decades-long sentence widely believed to be politically motivated. The cause of Navalnys death has so far not been announced, but the politicians supporters and several Western leaders have alleged that he was killed by the Kremlin. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. Other opposition leaders fear safety Source: The Moscow Times Ilya Yashin, a Russian opposition politician jailed for opposing Moscows invasion of Ukraine, said that he had only just learned of Navalnys death and feared for his own safety. In a letter published in The Moscow Times, Yashin described the news as unbearable, saying he had no doubt Putin was responsible for Navalnys death. State media propaganda that the Russian leader would be uninterested in carrying out such an assassination should be dismissed, he added, since Putin has ordered such killings before. We shared a common cause and dedicated our lives to making Russia peaceful, free and happy, Yashin wrote of Navalny. I am behind bars, my life is in Putins hands, and it is in danger. Russia monitoring Navalny supporters who attend memorials Source: Meduza Police officers in Moscow have been ordered to carry out round-the-clock surveillance on memorials to Navalny, independent Russian news site Meduza reported. The Moscow Ministry of Internal Affairs has asked the citys police department to identify anyone that lays flowers at a memorial for the political dissident, in order to prevent possible offenses and identify persons violating public order, Meduza noted, but the ministry denied the report and said no such command was issued. Dozens of people have been detained across the country for attending memorials and vigils for Navalny in recent days, including some in St. Petersburg who were taken to prisons more than 180 miles away from the city. PANAMA CITY In just about two months, many local officials will battle it out in the 2024 municipal elections in Bay County. According to the Bay County Supervisor of Elections website, municipal elections will be held April 16. Here's what we know about the more than dozen candidates running for office. The 2024 municipal election in Bay County are scheduled to occur April 16. Panama City Beach In Panama City Beach, the offices of mayor, Ward 2 council member and Ward 4 council member are up for election this year. Mayor Mark Sheldon is running for re-election against Stuart Tettemer. Incumbent Michael Jarman is running unopposed for the Ward 4 seat, and Ethan Register is running unopposed for the Ward 2 seat. Register is slated to replace Phil Chester, who has reached his term limit. Callaway In Callaway, the offices of mayor, Ward 3 commissioner and Ward 4 commissioner are up for election this year. Mayor Pamn Henderson is running unopposed for re-election. Incumbent Bob Pelletier is running against Christine Smallwood for the Ward 3 seat, and incumbent Kenneth Ayers is running against David Agosta for the Ward 4 seat. Springfield In Springfield, the offices of Ward 1 commissioner and Ward 2 commissioner are up for election this year. Incumbent Jack Griffis is running unopposed for the Ward 1 seat, and Richard Chval is running unopposed for the Ward 2 seat. Chval is slated to replace Phillip Dykes, who is not seeking re-election. Mexico Beach In Mexico Beach, the offices of mayor, Group 4 council member and Group 5 council member are up for election this year. Unlike the other listed office, the office of mayor in Mexico Beach is not a traditional election, but a recall election. Official recall: 'A choice': Mexico Beach to hold recall for Mayor Michele Miller in municipal elections Residents will be asked on their ballots whether they support recalling current Mayor Michele Miller. They then will be asked to choose a replacement. If the majority of residents vote in favor of recalling Miller, then the winning replacement will assume the position. Richard Wolff, the current Group 5 council member of Mexico Beach, and Erik Fosshage are running to be Miller's replacement. Jason Adams, Cindy Jolley and Lisa Logan are running for the Group 4 Seat. One of them will replace Adrian Welle, who is not seeking re-election. Larry Henderson and Timothy Linderman are running to replace Wolff for the Group 5 seat. This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Check out the candidates for 2024 municipal elections in Bay County Over the last 10 years or so, a caboose-sized clapboard box in downtown Charlestons otherwise residential Eastside neighborhood has housed a jerk chicken shop, bagel counter and breakfast burrito joint. But a few weeks after school let out in 2023, up-tempo tunes animated by steel strings and accordions started wafting through the little buildings screened windows. Maybe passers-by who heard the music from the quadrant of Africa formerly colonized by France guessed that the chef now in charge of the kitchen was working with peanuts and palm oil. Perhaps the lyrics in Arabic and French made them think of slow-cooked lamb nestled in couscous, or fried fish abreast tomato-stained rice. So far, so good. But if neighbors assumed the chef and her music came straight from Senegal, they were mistaken. Bintou NDaw was born in Dakar to a family with roots in Saint-Louis, the one-time capital farther up the Atlantic coast, but spent childhood summers with a grandmother in Normandy, France. In her late teens, NDaw studied baking there for a couple of years, then in 2000 moved to New York City, where she eventually carved out a career as a personal chef for artists. But first, she worked as an account manager for Putumayo World Music, which is how albums such as North African Groove and Congo to Cuba entered her music-to-cook-by rotation. Bintou N Daw at her Charleston restaurant, Bintu Atelier; her mothers artwork hangs behind her. NDaws tiny restaurant, Bintu Atelier, is emblematic of the new wave of West African restaurants emerging in the Lowcountry and along the Gulf Coast, places where the acidic soil and muggy summers mirror West African conditions so closely that the same crops thrive. Cassava flour, I had to find, but I can go to Joseph Fields Farms and get my okra, NDaw said of her buying trips to Black-owned land on Johns Island, 30 minutes from the Charleston peninsula. Created by longtime culinary professionals with experience in all kinds of kitchens, restaurants such as Bintu Atelier in Charleston, Okan in Bluffton, S.C., and Dakar NOLA in New Orleans arent designed to make guests feel as though theyve suddenly surfaced on another continent. Instead, they emphasize dishes that draw on native African and French colonial traditions, events that promote community, and open-hearted service. Its the format, more than the flavors, that qualifies as a revelation. Bistros passed out of fashion some time ago, as cardiac concerns and qualms over Eurocentrism mounted. But just as a banh mi demonstrates the potential of baguettes, these West African-inspired restaurants show theres life yet in the French restaurant genre. The homey, welcoming Bintu Atelier could well serve as a model for quality dining as Southern hospitality continues to find its footing in the 21st century. French bistro meets diasporic cuisine Money may not buy happiness, but it clearly buys the right to complain. Seated at Okans lively bar, I was astounded by patrons more than once announcing loudly, I dont like this, and pushing aside roasted okra dusted with harissa or a coconut-inflected cocktail. To be clear, as measured by online reviews and table bookings, Okan has been a certifiable hit since its July opening, but some wealthy white residents of Bluffton have no compunctions about warning chef Bernard Bennett a frequent presence on the floor that his food has too many flavors. Hanna Raskin You want boiled potatoes? Bennett remembers thinking when a guest admonished him to tone down his menu. Ive never heard too many flavors. But we do have complaints about the sound in the restaurant, and Ive never been in a quiet restaurant, so that wasnt expected either. To Bennetts mind, the decibel level is a reflection of diners getting comfortable and going about their lives, just as he intended it. We want to be a place where people can have fun and enjoy themselves and not feel stuffy or anything of that nature, and have good food while doing it, he told me in a phone call after my second visit. Maybe you want to work on a project at the bar on your laptop. Okan in Bluffton in August 2023 Its a vision remarkably close in detail to the platonic French bistro as conjured by one of its greatest champions. Travel writer Pierre Josse, who served as spokesman for a group that lobbied Unesco to add traditional French bistro to its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, told The Irish Times in 2019 that the bistro is a ritual, a tradition, the pleasure of being together, of existing. He continued, In a bistro you can be left alone to think, read, write memoirs, poems or love letters. That said, Bennett who was born in Chicago but describes his heritage as specifically Senegalese doesnt want his audience to disengage from the restaurants West African-rooted cooking. Nor does he want them to tune out the history of enslavement embedded in a menu whose influences roam from Portugal to the Dominion Republic to South Carolina and back again. Part of his aim with Okan is to school customers in the diasporic cuisines idioms, so locals can order peanut stew and jollof rice as offhandedly as they might ask for steak frites. If I told you I made Italian food, you would have a pretty solid foundation of what I make, said Bennett, whos been a chef in Italian, French and New American restaurants. If I tell you I make African food, you have no clue, or youre going to go straight to a stereotypical thought like soul food. Filling a void NDaw has confronted the same confusion about West African cookery, as well as objections lodged against older West African restaurants in the U.S. that she cant entirely dismiss, given her affection for structure and background in classical technique: Too oily, or bad service, not open when you think its going to be open, she said. Yet she never heard those gripes in Charleston, where she relocated during the pandemic in part because of the citys resemblance to Saint-Louis. In Charleston, where Gullah-Geechee staples such as red rice and stewed shrimp are almost interchangeable with their African antecedents, there simply werent any West African restaurants, unless you included the Nigerian woman who sold prepared food out of her home in the next county north. There is none? NDaw asked her colleagues at Chez Nous, a French restaurant in downtown Charleston where NDaw worked briefly as a chef. None, they confirmed. Nothing? When the kitchen on Line Street was offered for rent, NDaw told her husband that she was going to open Charlestons first West African restaurant, even if she had to empty their savings account to do it. Bintu Ateliers ndambe, a black-eyed pea spread Bintu Atelier opened in June as a takeout window. NDaw instructed her husband, a Fayetteville, N.C., native who gave up his archivist job in New York to help start the restaurant, Im going to cook. Youre going to put stuff in bags. NDaw was certain of that, just as she was certain that shed picked a failsafe lineup of opening dishesndambe, a black-eyed pea spread; mafe, or peanut stew, and red shrimp with riceand the right site for her venture: The Eastside reminded her of Bed-Stuy, the intimate Brooklyn neighborhood which shed long called home. What she wasnt sure about was whether she needed to sign up with DoorDash. The food delivery service would keep 30% of her sales, but she worried about running a business without much drive-by traffic. Finally, she registered for an account. One day, we tried it, and we had to turn it off, NDaw said. The aromas of NDaws cooking, drifting down the street, were a better advertisement for Bintu Atelier than any app listing: She raced to keep up with demand. And once customers received their takeout boxes, they didnt want to leave. They persuaded her to put patio tables outside her front door so they could stay and eat and talk. Basically, theyd found their bistro. A place where the food was scratch-made, service was friendly instead of formal, and a chef-owner was keeping an eye on everything, to borrow descriptors from bistro backer Pierre Josse. Of course, this panoramic take on the template was willed into existence by a woman who as a girl would carry baobab to her French grandmother, who craved the Senegalese fruit, and return to Dakar with her Senegalese grandmothers favorite Dijon mustard. The warmest food Elaina Ruth, who met NDaw in March at a small Charleston Wine + Food afterparty organized and attended by Black women chefs, recently had the chance to sit at one of those Ikea patio tables. You look up and see its just her in the kitchen cooking: Everything that comes out is directly from her hands, said Ruth, who feasted on fried snapper, crab rice and goat egusi, a ground melon seed stew. Outside of my grandmother, its some of the warmest food Ive ever had. In a city where NDaw found herself perpetually frustrated by being the only Black woman in restaurant dining rooms Cmon! This city is so mixed! Bintu Atelier has attracted a diverse clientele. Former Peace Corps volunteers and retirees whove had the opportunity to tour an African country still outnumber Black people born in Charleston, but the restaurants visited regularly by families who live nearby, women who want to know if palm oil is as healthy as Instagram claims, and kids who want to try fufu like the pounded starch they saw on TikTok. Im happy to see everyone sit together, NDaw said. Its not about being a Black-owned business, but if youre Black, you feel safe here. Its just that simplicity and honesty of feeding and nurturing people. Although NDaw and her restaurant share a given name, NDaw wanted to clarify that ego didnt influence her choice. Instead, she was following a family custom in which every eldest daughter, such as herself, is called Bintu. In other words, Bintu Atelier is designated as the first West African restaurant in the area. NDaws greatest hope is that it wont be the last. This story first appeared in The Food Section, a Charleston-based newsletter covering food and drink across the American South. To learn more about the James Beard Award-winning publication, visit thefoodsection.com. White House: Johnson not serious about backing allies after he claimed Biden called for cease-fire The White House called Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) not serious about backing the United Statess allies after the Speaker released a statement claiming President Biden called for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war. Johnsons statement Tuesday had the subject line, Bidens Call for Cease-fire is Disgraceful, and highlighted that the Biden administration called for a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and opposed Israelis moves into Rafah. Johnson said Biden is responding to political pressure from opponents of Israel as it gets closer to Novembers election and has scaled down his support for Israel with a shocking step to back a temporary cease-fire. Its unfortunate that Speaker Johnson is attacking those efforts and continuing to play politics with Israel while he blocks the aid President Biden requested to help Israel defend itself against Hamas and Iranian-backed militias at the same time that he obstructs other crucial priorities like protecting Ukraine from Putting and Tehran, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said. The U.S. vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution proposed by Algeria earlier Tuesday that called on Israel to implement a cease-fire against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, arguing the vote was wishful and irresponsible because it would put negotiations to release the hostages in peril. Bates said the resolution the Biden administration then introduced at the Security Council was an alternative text that calls for a temporary cease-fire and the release of more than 100 Israeli hostages held by Hamas. If Speaker Johnson were serious about backing our allies, he would cancel the two-week vacation hes enjoying and call a vote on pressing national security legislation that already passed the Senate with bipartisan support, Bates said. The U.S. was the only permanent member of the Security Council to use its veto power to kill the resolution proposed by Algeria. The U.K., another permanent member, abstained. The Biden administration has been involved in months of negotiations for a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas to release the hostages taken during the deadly attacks on Oct. 7. Biden this month said the U.S. is working to broker a deal that could lead to a six-week pause in fighting, after it worked to reach a deal in November that led to a weeklong pause in fighting and the release of more than 100 hostages. Additionally, the U.S. has backed Israels move into Rafah, but only if a plan is created to keep civilians safe. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he ordered his military to draft a plan to evacuate civilians before the invasion into Rafah, which borders Egypt and is the only location where humanitarian aid is entering Gaza consistently. The president and Netanyahu have increasingly grown apart publicly about the direction of the war, with Biden continually asking Israel to be mindful of civilian casualties and calling Israels response in Gaza over the top. And Netanyahu earlier this month rejected Hamass proposal for a hostage deal, which would have secured the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for a pause in fighting and other hard-line conditions. The framework laid out called for the withdrawal of all Israeli troops from Gaza. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE PHOTO: The Apple Inc logo hanging at the entrance to the Apple store on 5th Avenue in New York By Christopher Bing and Raphael Satter WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Apple is rolling out an upgrade to its iMessage texting platform to defend against future encryption-breaking technologies. The new protocol, known as PQ3, is another sign that U.S. tech firms are bracing for a potential future breakthrough in quantum computing that could make current methods of protecting users communications obsolete. More than simply replacing an existing algorithm with a new one, we rebuilt the iMessage cryptographic protocol from the ground up, an Apple blog post published on Wednesday reads. It will fully replace the existing protocol within all supported conversations this year. The Cupertino, California-based iPhone maker says its encryption algorithms are state-of-the-art and that it has found no evidence so far of a successful attack on them. Still, government officials and scientists are concerned that the advent of quantum computers, advanced machines that tap in to the properties of subatomic particles, could suddenly and dramatically weaken those protections. Late last year, a Reuters investigation explored how the United States and China are racing to prepare for that moment, dubbed Q-Day, both by pouring money into quantum research and by investing in new encryption standards known as post-quantum cryptography. Washington and Beijing have traded allegations of intercepting massive amounts of encrypted data in preparation for Q-Day, an approach sometimes dubbed catch now, crack later. Early planning is necessary, the U.S. cyber watchdog agency, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, said in a 2022 advisory. Cyber threat actors could be targeting data today that would still require protection in the future. Apples blog says PQ3 uses a new and overlapping series of technical safeguards aimed at closing that window of opportunity. Michael Biercuk, the founder and chief executive of the quantum tech company Q-CTRL, said the fact that Apple was publicly hardening its defenses was a "vote of confidence" in the idea that advanced computers could one day lay waste to existing protections. "They are indicating that they believe this is a realistic threat and are preparing actively for it," he said. (Reporting by Christopher Bing and Raphael Satter in Washington.; Editing by Matthew Lewis) Clumio, a data backup and recovery provider for companies using the public cloud, has raised $75 million in a Series D round of funding. The raise comes as the Santa Clara, California-based company claimed a four-fold increase in annual recurring revenue (ARR) last year, driven by new customers such as Atlassian, which is now using Clumio for the cloud-based incarnation of its Jira project management software. The problems that Clumio and others like it, such as Veeam and Rubrik, are trying to solve are manifold. While public cloud spending is showing little sign of weaning, businesses also face growing threats related to ransomware, with extortion gangs enjoying a bumper 2023 by most estimations. And then there is the issue of data center disasters like the fire that hit France's OVH in 2021, leading to millions of websites going offline and significant data loss. Throw into the mix a growing array of regulations with strict data retention stipulations, and the need for greater transparency in the snowballing generative AI movement, and this all amounts to a fertile landscape for companies like Clumio to flourish, by helping companies to automate their data backup and recovery workflows. Backed up Founded in 2017, Clumio largely serves to protect workloads on Amazon's cloud infrastructure, though it introduced support for Microsoft 365 back in 2020 too. While it's true that AWS and its ilk offer native data backups spanning areas including replication (where objects are copied across buckets), versioning (where multiple versions of an object are kept in the same bucket) and object locking (storing objects as "write-once-read-many") this is typically to solve accidental data deletion and over-writes -- it typically reverts to the previous version, and restricts how companies can restore objects or an entire bucket (a data storage repository) to a chosen point in time. Moreover, it's important to keep production (i.e. "live") data and backup data in separate secure domains, something that many backup solutions (including first-party from the cloud providers themselves) don't do. So if there is a breach, and security credentials were to be compromised across an entire organization, this would effectively jeopardize the backups as well as the production data. "Clumio overcomes this challenge by delivering a default air-gapped, 'immutable' platform that keeps enterprises' data secure from such adversarial incidents," Clumio CEO Poojan Kumar told TechCrunch by email. Clumio dashboard Clumio dashboard. Image Credits: Clumio Indeed, Clumio stores its backup data in what Kumar calls a "hyper-optimized data plane" on AWS. "Unlike other vendors, we dont deploy any heavy file systems or compute in the customers account to optimize storage," he said. "We leverage our serverless data processing engine in AWS to perform all core backup operations. Having said that, we do plan to expand our data plane to other clouds this year." On that note, many enterprises actually build applications upon infrastructure spanning cloud providers -- for instance, deploying a Microsoft SQL server database on an Amazon EC2 compute instance. This can create a "blank space" in backup coverage, where neither cloud provider is backing up the full stack. This is something that Clumio is increasingly supporting as it expands its coverage across the cloud infrastructure and application landscape. While Clumio has been substantively AWS-focused thus far, which is perhaps understandable for a startup looking to target the biggest piece of the cloud computing pie from the get-go, Kumar says the platform has been architected in a way that makes it easy to port to any cloud. "Our mission is to be THE backup solution for any cloud, any workload," he said. "And this year, we will make progress on that mission. We have started in AWS, but will soon expand to the other key cloud providers as customer demand on those clouds increase." Clumo CEO Poojan Kumar (center) flanked by co-founders Kaustubh Patil (left) and Woon Ho Jung Clumo CEO Poojan Kumar (center) flanked by co-founders Kaustubh Patil (left) and Woon Ho Jung. Image Credits: Clumio Risk landscape 2023 was a hotbed of ransomware activity, with prolific gangs such as Russia-linked Clop exploiting software vulnerabilities to target hundreds of organizations, from hospitals to banks, universities and airlines. But holding data to ransom is just one immediate risk of not having sufficient backup and recovery systems in place, with various rules and standards such as SOC2 and ISO27001 requiring enterprises to store and maintain data for a set period of time for auditing purposes. And the OVH fire three years ago also demonstrated the importance of a robust data backup regimen, when the French cloud provider was successfully sued by customers who had paid for backups but lost their data because OVH had kept the backups on the same servers as the "live" production data. On top of that, the fast-moving AI revolution is leading to new regulations such as the EU AI Act, which has strict provisions for traceability so that it's possible to document the origins of data used to develop a given model -- this is important for averting the much-maligned "black box" problem and help make AI more trustworthy. And this could prove to be a boon for Clumio and its ilk, as businesses look to identify, classify and backup datasets preemptively even before regulations have gained much of a foothold. "With the unstoppable force of generative AI and the immovable focus on privacy, there is enormous flux in the regulatory environment," Kumar said. "We have some famous genomics customers that are using AI for drug discovery, and they want to do it responsibly because new regulations will require backward traceability for years, perhaps decades." Clumio says that it is now "well into" double-digit millions of dollars for ARR, a 400% increase from 2022 to 2023, though it stopped short of giving specific numbers. Prior to now, the company had raised around $186 million, the lion's share arriving via a $135 million Series C round more than four years ago. While startups' funding typically increases as they move through their rounds, Clumio's latest cash injection sits at almost half its 2019 raise -- a clear reflection of how the world's economic landscape has shifted in the intervening years. "The macro environment is quite challenging -- capital is more expensive, and the mantra of 'grow-at-all-costs' has developed into responsible growth," Kumar said. "So, even though we quadrupled ARR and secured net new investors in our cap table, we decided to raise our Series D appropriately." Still, $75 million is nothing to be sniffed at, and the capital will be necessary as Clumio seeks to bolster its market reach both in terms of industry coverage as well as its cloud support. Clumio's Series D round was led by Sutter Hill Ventures, with participation from Index Ventures, Altimeter Capital and NewView Capital. Apple and Samsung the two titans of the smartwatch industry are chasing a new feature that would allow a smartwatch to measure the glucose levels in your blood. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is already concerned about misleading marketing tactics, even though the feature is yet to appear on a commercially available smartwatch from a well-known brand. The FDA has not authorized, cleared, or approved any smartwatch or smart ring that is intended to measure or estimate blood glucose values on its own, says the regulatory agency. As such, the agency has asked users that they should refrain from buying or using smartwatches or rings that claim to measure the sugar levels in the bloodstream. Right now, there are medical-grade devices out there that can measure blood glucose levels, but most of them rely on an invasive method where a small puncture is required to draw out a blood sample and then analyze it. Noninvasive blood glucose monitoring has remained elusive so far, especially in a miniaturized form that is suitable for smartwatches. In 2020, Samsung announced that it had developed a noninvasive method for blood glucose level measurement in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Samsung didnt specify whether the tech would make its way to a smartwatch, but multiple reports claimed that Samsung is exploring the tech for its smartwatches. Apple, on the other hand, is also said to be working toward the same goal. Rumors suggest that noninvasive blood glucose level analysis could arrive as a marquee new addition for the t10th-generation Apple Watch slated to hit the shelves later this year. Assuming the tech eventually makes it to the market later this year, it would start a mad race where every player would want to advertise that health facility for their own product. And that would mean misleading marketing claims, which is already a worrisome reality. It seems the FDA has already braced for the onslaught and has, therefore, made it clear that it hasnt certified any such tech from Apple or any other consumer electronics brand whatsoever. Do not buy or use smartwatches or smart rings that claim to measure blood glucose levels, the agency writes in bold in an official press release. These devices may be sold through online marketplaces or directly from the seller. Blood glucose level assessment in a wearable form factor would be a big achievement, irrespective of who reaches that milestone first. If one were to go by Samsungs track record of publicly announcing regulatory nods for health features, we would certainly know if the FDA has certified such an impressive capability for a smartwatch or smart ring. Until that happens, do not buy into the claims of any such brand, and check for the FDA certification before investing your money. In the meantime, if you are interested in understanding the current state of development regarding wearable-assisted blood glucose monitoring tech, read this excellent research paper published in the Alexandria Engineering Journal. TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Caseware International , a global leader in cloud-enabled audit, financial reporting and data analytics solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Supkis Cheek as Vice President, Head of Analytics and AI. Caseware International logo (CNW Group/Caseware International Inc.) Supkis Cheek joins Caseware from MindBridge where she was Vice President of Strategy and Industry Relations. Her outstanding career, spanning over 15 years in public accounting, includes senior leadership roles within various small and medium sized firms, as well as several years spent running her own practice. In her new role, she will be responsible for continuing to develop and drive Caseware's analytics, data, and artificial intelligence strategies with a focus on the delivery of innovative solutions that delight the company's global client base. David Osborne, Chief Executive Officer at Caseware remarked, "As a renowned industry expert, Danielle will bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of industry knowledge to our team. Caseware is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation and AI is transforming and redefining how we approach analytics and data-driven decision-making. Danielle's proven track record will be invaluable in advancing our data, analytics and AI strategy to deliver superior value to our clients and to drive Caseware's growth." Supkis Cheek commented, "I am excited to join a global organization known for its ability to provide an incredible breadth of offerings to deliver on the needs of the practitioner. As an ex accounting firm owner myself, I admire Caseware's reputation within the accounting and audit professions and it's an opportune time for me to contribute to the company's innovation journey. AI and data analytics are revolutionizing the way practitioners work, enabling them to automate processes, reduce errors, and increase speed, thereby delivering real business value that provides a competitive edge." Story continues Supkis Cheek holds a Bachelor's degree from Rice University in Houston, TX and a Master of Science in Accountancy from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. She returned to her alma mater as part-time faculty at Rice University's Jones School of Business where she has been teaching accounting for entrepreneurs to undergraduates and data analytics to Masters of Accountancy (MAcc) students for the best part of a decade. She is a highly respected professional with certifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of Texas, a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA). Her broader achievements include being honored with the Houston CPA's Society's Distinguished Member to the Profession in 2019. She was recognized as a five-time Most Powerful Women in Accounting by CPA Practice Advisor and AICPA and named as one of the 2019 Houston Business Journal Women Who Mean Business. Photography of Danielle Supkis Cheek can be found here . About Caseware International Caseware is the leading global provider of desktop and cloud-enabled solutions for audit, assurance, financial reporting and data analytics for accounting firms, corporations, and government regulators. Caseware's innovative tools and platforms help more than half a million customers in 130 countries work smarter, dig deeper and see further as they transform insights into impact. For more information, visit www.caseware.com . Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/caseware-welcomes-danielle-supkis-cheek-as-vice-president-head-of-analytics-and-ai-302064106.html SOURCE Caseware International Inc. Intel has announced a new collaboration with Microsoft, revealing plans for the tech giant to utilize its services in manufacturing a custom computing chip. Intel is optimistic about surpassing its internal deadline of 2025 to outpace its primary competitor, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), in advanced chip manufacturing. The announcement came during an event held in San Jose, California, marking the inaugural technology conference for Intel Foundry, the companys contract manufacturing arm established to compete with TSMC. Intel also outlined its strategy to reclaim the title of producing the worlds fastest chips from TSMC, with the goal being to achieve this milestone later in the year with its Intel 18A manufacturing technology. The company also aims to extend its lead into 2026 with the introduction of its new Intel 14A technology. Microsoft is set to leverage Intels 18A technology for an undisclosed chip, contributing to Intels anticipated increase in foundry orders, which is expected to reach $15 billion, up from the previously estimated $10 billion. Intel The unveiling of Intels 14A technology represents a significant milestone, offering insights into the companys long-term plans beyond 2025. The company seems determined to regain its chipmaking supremacy, a position it held for decades by leveraging its manufacturing prowess to produce high-performance chips. However, with the loss of its manufacturing lead, Intel has faced challenges that have led to decreased competitiveness and reduced margins, hindering its manufacturing efforts. To reposition itself in the semiconductor industry, Intel is banking on substantial investments from the U.S. government and attracting business from external customers. The companys geographic diversity, with various factories operating across multiple continents, presents an interesting value proposition, particularly for customers wary of TSMCs concentration of high-end facilities in Taiwan. Intels initiative to attract external customers is crucial to its turnaround strategy, with analysts emphasizing its importance in the companys trajectory. The companys specialized technologies, including those geared toward accelerating AI chip development, further reinforce its appeal to potential partners like Nvidia, although no official agreement has been announced yet. Overall, Intels efforts to regain market dominance signify a strategic shift that underscores its commitment to technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and market diversification. While the success of its turnaround strategy remains to be seen, Intels proactive approach positions it for potential growth and relevance in the evolving semiconductor landscape. A screen tracks Nvidia as a trader works on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange. A screen tracks Nvidia as a trader works on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters The artificial intelligence boom is pushing demand for Nvidias products past Wall Streets already lofty expectations. The chipmaker beat analyst expectations on Wednesday by leaps and bounds when it reported fourth-quarter earnings, posting $22.1bn in revenue on an expected $20.55bn and $4.93 in earnings per share against an expected $4.64. Revenue was 22% higher than the previous quarter, up 265% from a year ago. Nvidias most closely watched earnings figure revenue from data centers was up more than 400% from the same period last year, reaching $18.4bn. Related: Nvidia to release three new AI chips for China after US restrictions report Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of Nvidia, said in a press release: Accelerated computing and generative AI have hit the tipping point. Demand is surging worldwide across companies, industries and nations. Nvidias revenue and demand for its shares are seen as bellwethers for overall interest in artificial intelligence due to the heavy reliance on its wares in developing AI. Microsoft, OpenAI, Amazon, Meta and Google have all struck deals with the company to purchase its chips in bulk as they race to release new AI products and features. Some key players, including OpenAIs Sam Altman, are toying with starting their own AI chip ventures to compete with the established Nvidia, which would probably cost hundreds of billions of dollars. Nvidia plans to ship a new chip, the B100, at the highest end of its products line in 2024, stoking expectations around its explosive growth. Nokia and Nvidia announced a partnership on Wednesday to develop AI solutions that could improve telecommunications infrastructure. Wall Street has come to expect enormous growth from Nvidia; the baseline analyst expectation on Wednesday was a 240% increase in revenue. Tech companies are rushing to create AI products on the back of the companys specialized AI chips and software, considered among the best on the market. Nvidias revenue tripled in the last quarter, and its earnings have beaten analyst expectations for the past four. Its stock has more than tripled in value over the past year, bringing the company above the $1.5tn valuation threshold. The company surpassed Google and Amazon in market capitalization last week, becoming the third-largest company in the world by value for a few days. Reddit app is seen on a smartphone in this illustration (Reuters) -Social media platform Reddit plans to sell a chunk of its IPO shares to its platform's users, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. It aims to reserve an as-yet-undetermined number of shares for 75,000 of its most prolific so-called redditors when it goes public next month, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter. The users will have the opportunity to buy Reddit shares at its initial public offering (IPO) price before the stock starts trading, a privilege normally reserved only for big investors, the report said. The San Francisco-based company, which was valued at about $10 billion in a funding round in 2021, declined to comment. Reuters in January reported that Reddit has drawn up detailed plans for its IPO in March. It had filed confidentially for its IPO back in December 2021. The IPO market has not yet fully recovered as it has been struggling for the last two years with low volumes while several new entrants trade below their IPO prices. Reddit's IPO, which has been in the works for more than three years now, would be the first from a major social media company since Pinterest's debut in 2019. (Reporting by Jaiveer Singh Shekhawat in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur) By Sam Nussey, Fanny Potkin and Miho Uranaka TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's efforts to rebuild its semiconductor industry are getting a shot in the arm as more and more Taiwanese chip companies expand here - not only to support a new TSMC plant but also excited about the Japanese sector's prospects. The influx comes amid shifting alliances and priorities in the global chip industry as the United States pushes to limit China's progress in cutting-edge semiconductors and strengthen partnerships between its allies. Fabless chipmaker Alchip Technologies, which specialises in customised chips known as application-specific integrated chips (ASICs), is illustrative of the China decoupling trend. In 2022, the bulk of its research and development engineers were based in China but Alchip has begun moving roles overseas, many to Japan, said a source who was briefed on the matter. The company said it is hiring in Japan, North America and Taiwan but declined to comment further on personnel matters. "We're expecting Japan semiconductor market growth, we're continuously capitalising on Japan ASIC opportunities and already engaging in several good projects," said Hiroyuki Furuzono, general manager of Alchip Japan. At least nine Taiwanese chip firms have set up shop or expanded operations in Japan over the past two years, according to a Reuters count. Chip design company eMemory Technology, for example, opened an office two years ago in Yokohama, which neighbours Tokyo, and has 11 employees after hiring from Japan conglomerates which once dominated the industry. "After we built the office there we are receiving more frequent communication with the customers and they are more willing to talk in Japanese with our local people, so we see business is booming," eMemory President Michael Ho told Reuters. More Taiwanese chip sector firms are also looking at increasing their presence or making their first foray into Japan, said the source and another person with knowledge of the matter, adding that a weak yen has made such decisions easier. The sources declined to be identified as the information was not public. PROACTIVE SUPPORT While Japan still boasts leading semiconductor material and equipment makers, it has seen its share of the global chip manufacturing market shrink to 10% from around 50% in the 1980s after trade tensions with the U.S. and competition from South Korean and Taiwanese rivals. But in recent years Japan has thrown huge sums to rebuild its chip manufacturing sector, recognising that semiconductors are vital for economic security and spurred on by the global chip shortage during the pandemic as well as encouragement from Washington. This Saturday, TSMC, formally known as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, will hold the opening ceremony for its first plant on the southern island of Kyushu, a chipmaking hub. The on-track plan contrasts with the troubled construction of TSMC's Arizona factory. It has also just announced plans for a second fab in Japan, bringing total investment in the venture to more than $20 billion. The chipmaking giant, Reuters has reported, sees Japan as a natural fit in terms of an industrious work culture and a government that is easy to deal with and generous with subsidies. "The core strength of a strong semiconductor country lies not just in leading firms but in a robust ecosystem," said Nori Chiou, investment director at White Oak Capital. "Japan's proactive government support, marked by substantial subsidies and minimal political interference, sets it apart, fostering superior progress compared to many other countries." In addition to TSMC, the Japanese government-backed chip foundry venture Rapidus plans to mass produce chips on the northern island of Hokkaido from 2027. Taiwan's Powerchip is also seeking government subsidies to set up a $5.4 billion foundry in Japan. Taiwanese firms boosting their presence in Japan include TSMC-backed Global Unichip Corp (GUC), another fabless designer of ASICs, which said it is attracted by both the engineering talent and business opportunities. Additionally, Materials Analysis Technology (MA-tek), which inspects semiconductor materials and cites TSMC as its biggest client, opened a new lab in Kyushu late last year. Semiconductor equipment and maintenance firm Finesse Technology, another key TSMC contractor, is building a factory in Japan. TSMC supplier Marketech is also expanding in Japan, the sources said. Marketech declined to comment. "The trend will continue for the foreseeable future as part of decoupling," said Takamoto Suzuki, head of China economic research for trading house Marubeni. He warned, however, that Japan may not have sufficient young science industry workers to meet demand. The number of workers in Japan's chip-related businesses has declined by around a fifth over the last roughly two decades, although the government and universities have ramped up efforts to encourage students into the field. (Reporting by Sam Nussey and Miho Uranaka in Tokyo and Fanny Potkin in Singapore; Editing by Edwina Gibbs) Manuel Alejandro Duran-Martinez appears in Yakima County Superior Court Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. He is charged with three counts of drive-by shooting. WikiLeaks Assange faces wait to find out whether he can challenge extradition to the US Judges say WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange wont find out until next month at the earliest whether can appeal extradition to the U.S. on spying charges Wind turbines line the ridge overlooking Kennewick. The Horse Heaven Hills wind farm is proposed for this area. (Luke Johnson / The Seattle Times, 2023) 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. MANILA, Philippines, Feb. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CGI (NYSE:GIB) (TSX:GIB.A) recently announced that it has received the Great Place to Work certification in the Philippines for the third consecutive year. The certification recognizes CGI's commitment to building a workplace founded in an ownership culture, fostering an inclusive and innovative work environment for all. CGI is Great Place to Work-certified for the third year in the Philippines The recognition is based on collective and anonymous feedback gathered from CGI's consultants and professionals. Through the Great Place to Work assessment model that evaluates an organization's culture and engagement practices based on the Trust Index and Culture Audit, CGI professionals can share their feedback on five key dimensions: Credibility, Respect, Fairness, Pride, and Camaraderie. Rakesh Aerath, President, Asia Pacific Global Delivery Centers of Excellence shared, "This achievement is a testament to the dedication and excellence of our incredible team. Together, we have built a workplace culture that values collaboration, innovation, and the well-being of every team member. We are proud to be part of a company where passion meets purpose, and where every individual contributes to our collective success." In 2023, CGI also ranked among the Top 8 Best Workplaces in the Philippines for the large company category. "The consistent accolades CGI has received over the years, reaffirm our commitment to creating an environment where we enjoy working together and contributing to building a company, we are proud of.", Jill De Jesus, Senior Vice President and Business Unit Leader, Philippines Global Delivery Center. She added, "This accomplishment reflects the unwavering commitment and dedication of our professionals to foster an inclusive, positive, and innovative work culture." About the Great Place to Work Institute Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. The Institute serves business, non-profits, and government agencies in over 60 countries and has conducted pioneering research on the characteristics of great workplaces for over three decades. In the Philippines, the institute partners with more than 1,000 organizations to help them build High-Trust, High-Performance Cultures designed to deliver sustained business results. Hundreds of CEOs are part of the great place community, committed to the vision of building a better world by helping organizations become Great Places to Work for All including every Filipino. Story continues About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,500 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2023 reported revenue is C$14.30 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com. Stock Market Symbols GIB (NYSE) GIB.A (TSX) www.cgi.com/newsroom CGI Logo Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/cgi-is-great-place-to-work-certified-for-the-third-year-in-the-philippines-302066419.html SOURCE CGI ChatGPT ChatGPT has bewildered users by answering questions in Spanglish, as the much-hyped artificial intelligence (AI) tool was struck by an embarrassing glitch. Reports of the OpenAI-owned chatbot talking gibberish have emerged on social media, with the US tech giant admitting that users were receiving unexpected responses. Among the bizarre responses were messages written in a mixture of English and Spanish, while others repeated the same word indefinitely. One example said: Let me encylopease me si theres more wonderenda tu articulations hungry for! Gary Marcus, an AI expert and emeritus professor at New York University, said ChatGPT had gone berserk. Writing in his newsletter, Mr Marcus said: These systems have never been stable. Nobody has been able to engineer safety guarantees around them. We are still in the age of machine learning alchemy. On the companys forum, one user said: As of about three hours ago all of my conversations with GPT4 devolve very quickly into garbage. Several users said ChatGPT would begin as normal before the response became nonsensical. In one post, ChatGPT said: A day. A high. A chalk. A spark. A line. A ken. A vire. A vane. A byre. A bye. A been. A balk. OpenAI admitted that some users had experienced problems but said: The issue has been identified and is being remediated. The problem has since been fixed. ChatGPT has been held up as a major advance in AI development, able to deliver human-sounding answers to detailed questions. Businesses have been turning to the bot to automate tasks, using it to write emails, summarise reports, or answer customer queries. Tech giants have invested billions of dollars in AI companies to develop large language models, which are trained on vast databases of billions of articles and thousands of books. Microsoft has pledged to invest $13bn in OpenAI alone, while Amazon and Google have each invested billions of dollars in rival Anthropic. Elon Musk has also launched a rival venture called xAI. Story continues However, sceptics have long pointed out that chatbots are prone to delivering strange responses, particularly as bots can make up facts - a process known as hallucinating. Last week, OpenAI launched a new AI tool designed to generate photorealistic videos from text prompts alone. However, some of its videos feature uncanny distortions, such as objects, animals or people appearing from thin air. Sam Altman, the chief executive of OpenAI, has previously claimed AI could pose an existential threat to the future of humanity. At the same time, he has been raising billions of dollars to pursue ever more powerful versions of the technology. Concerns over the unknown risks posed by AI were partly behind the Governments AI Safety Summit in November and led to an agreement to set up a safety institute to monitor the threat. The Government has been experimenting with using ChatGPT on its own website. 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. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Stiri pe aceeasi tema - Ministrul Mediului, Mircea Fechet, a declarat, la Constanta, ca programele Rabla Clasic si Rabla Plus sunt in consultare publica, iar dupa ce ghidurile vor fi finalizate si bugetul aprobat, va incepe derularea acestora in primavara anului in curs, potrivit Agerpres. Programul Rabla, daca va referiti - Ministrul Mediului, Mircea Fechet , a facut un anunt important in cadrul unei conferinte de presa la Prefectura Constanta, dezvaluind ca programele Rabla Clasic si Rabla Plus sunt pe cale sa inceapa in primavara acestui an. In prezent, programele sunt supuse unei consultari publice, cu ghidurile aferente - Ministrul Mediului, Mircea Fechet, a declarat miercuri, la Constanta, ca programele Rabla Clasic si Rabla Plus sunt in consultare publica, iar dupa ce ghidurile vor fi finalizate si bugetul aprobat, va incepe derularea acestora in primavara anului in curs. - 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 - Echipa de baschet feminin CSM Targoviste a inceput cu stangul meciurile din acest an. Sambata seara, pe teren propriu, intr-un joc ce a contat pentru etapa a 8-a a campionatului, formatia damboviteana s-a inclinat cu 70-79 (16-17; 24-21; 20-18; 10-23) in fata echipei CSM CSU Constanta. In disputa de - Ukraine and Russia on Wednesday announced their first exchange of prisoners of war in nearly five months, with more than 200 freed by each side after what both said was a complex negotiation involving mediation by the United Arab Emirates, according to Reuters. Russias Defence Ministry said 248 military - Agriculture agency employees to have equal pay as of January 2024The salaries for the employees of the Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture (APIA) will be equalised starting January 2024, the National Trade Union Bloc (BNS) informed on Wednesday. "After a week of protests by Sloturi cu aer de primavara incursiune pe rolele de joc Dupa sezonul rece, toata lumea este incantata sa se intalneasca cu razele calde ale soarelui. Intreaga natura pare ca revine la viata dupa o lunga perioada de hibernare. Chiar daca anotimpul rece nu mai este ce a fost odinioara, inca influenteaza tot ce-i in jur. Odata cu acesta, [citeste mai departe] (Bloomberg) -- Chinas two main stock exchanges froze the accounts of a major quantitative hedge fund for three days after the money manager dumped 2.57 billion yuan ($360 million) in shares within a minute Monday. Most Read from Bloomberg Ningbo Lingjun Investment Management Partnership executed the sell orders starting from 9:30 a.m. as shares declined, disrupting normal trading order, the Shenzhen exchange said in a statement Tuesday. The Shanghai bourse imposed a similar freeze on Lingjun, which will be barred from trading stocks until Feb. 22. The trading ban is the latest move by Chinese regulators to reverse a slump in stocks thats now entering a fourth year. Quant funds are drawing particular scrutiny amid concerns they can amplify market volatility and fuel routs. The sector has dismissed these concerns. Lingjuns selling orders amounted to abnormal trading behavior, and the firm was warned multiple times for the same reason this year, according to the Shenzhen statement. The bourse will tighten supervision and maintain zero tolerance on any activities that harm investors legitimate rights, it said. The firm will resolutely comply with the bourses restrictions and learn its lesson, Lingjun said in a statement posted on its Wechat account. The investment accounts under its management bought a net 187 million yuan in shares on Monday, it added. Lingjun has always been bullish and long on the Chinese equity market, and we are always close to full stock positions, the company said. It also pledged to ensure smooth and balanced transactions by improving its trading models and strictly controlling transaction processes. Lingjun is among the four-biggest quant funds in China, with more than 10 billion yuan under management. Story continues In separate statements from the Shenzhen and Shanghai bourses late Tuesday, the authorities said quant trading made by northbound investors via the mainland to Hong Kong stock connect will also be included in the reporting scope to the exchanges. Chinas securities regulator made another move this week that underlines its resolve to shore up the nations $8.6 trillion stock market. The China Securities Regulatory Commission, led by new Chairman Wu Qing, will treat opinions, suggestions and criticism from all parties seriously and implement the pragmatic and feasible ones immediately, it said in a statement after holding a series of seminars with investors, listed companies and foreign institutions over the past two days. Chinas commodities exchanges ended commission rebates on some programmed trades this year, and regulators barred quants from cutting stock positions on certain products earlier this month in a bid to stem the market rout. Various stimulus measures from Beijing have helped China stocks recover in recent days, though the benchmark CSI 300 Index is still down almost 1% for 2024, after dropping for three straight years. --With assistance from Evelyn Yu and Jacob Gu. (Updates with Ningbo Lingjun statement in fifth and sixth paragraphs) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Primarul Cristian Gentea: Promenada de langa raul Arges va intra in circuitul traseelor de timp liber In scurt timp, zona de promenada de langa raul Arges va fi la dispozitia pitestenilor. Promenada de langa raul Arges se schimba in fiecare zi! Prin finantare externa bugetului nostru (bani [citeste mai departe] Ukrainian Minister of Agriculture: Ukrainian grain is only in transit through Romania In the last few days, an information released by an international specialized website has once again caused an uproar in Romania on the subject of Ukrainian grain. In a statement to stiripesurse.ro, Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi categorically denies that Romania has imported grain from Ukraine. Erroneous information in the press The specialist website Agricensus noted the other day that since the beginning of this trade year, which started in July 2023, Romania has been the second largest market for Ukrainian wheat after Spain. Traders brought into the country one million tonnes Citeste articolul mai departe pe stiripesurse.ro Sursa articol si foto: stiripesurse.ro Stiri pe aceeasi tema - Senate President Nicolae Ciuca said on Thursday that the meeting he had earlier in the day with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reconfirmed the strong ties connecting the two countries not just as EU and NATO allies, but also as friendly states. Ciuca referenced the close call Mitsotakis - 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. - Quantities of 988,152 tonnes of wheat and 18,286 tonnes of corn were placed, between May 2 and December 31, 2023, in transit on the territory of Romania, with Ukraine as the country of dispatch, through 14,584 operations, according to the data published on Tuesday by the Romanian Customs Authority (AVR). - Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Wednesday at Mioveni, on the introduction of the voluntary military service, that he was bothered by the context in which the announcement about its necessity was made, as if there was a danger coming from Russia to Romania."There is no danger coming from there!" - The waiting time at the border control at the exit from Romania through Giurgiu border crossing point for trucks has reached 180 minutes, after Bulgarian farmers protested on Wednesday for more than three hours at the roundabout in Ruse border crossing point, and traffic was stopped on both directions - Ukrainian grain has successfully transited through Romania since the country introduced export licences under its grain export plan to help protect farmers last autumn, Adrian Pintea, state secretary in the Agriculture Ministry, said on Thursday, according to Euractiv. After being hit by the mass imports - Over 150 trucks left Romania on Wednesday through the Siret Border Crossing Point, after heavy trucks traffic was closed for two days due to protests by farmers and transporters, according to data centralised by the Suceava Territorial Border Police Service (STPF).According to the authorities in - Lantul ucrainean Aurora Multimarket a deschis deja sapte magazine in Romania, iar compania anunta ca anul viitor va deschide 70 de magazine in tara noastra, relateaza Stiri Suceava, care citeaza The New Voice of Ukraine. Citeste si: Arges. La volanul masinii care a acrosat doua fetite se afla un tanar Hungarys will be the most pro-enlargement European Union presidency of all time, Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said in Brussels on Tuesday, adding that the focus during accession talks would be on the actual performance of candidate countries rather than bowing to political pressure. We wont allow the accession processes of certain countries to be artificially tied to one another, Szijjarto told a press conference after a meeting of the EU-Georgia Association Council, according to a ministry statement. We wont allow the accession processes of any of the better-performing countries to be taken hostage by those that are falling behind. We will put the focus on actual performance during the accession talks, rather than bowing to some kind of political pressure which, in fact, comes from outside players, non EU countries and NGOs, the minister said. Szijjarto also said that a candidate country being at war will not be considered a merit during the accession talks, warning that the bloc must not import any kind of armed conflict. He said enlargement should be about expanding the possibility of stability and peaceful progress beyond the current territory of the EU rather than bringing the threat of war into the bloc. Meanwhile, the minister said the accession process should be grounded in reality during Hungarys presidency, with candidate countries having to meet sensible expectations. He explained that candidate countries should not be expected, for example, to fully adhere to the blocs foreign and security policy, arguing that regional realities should also be taken into consideration. We also wont allow good-sounding but nonsensical requirements to be set we cant set targets that EU member states themselves cant meet, either, he said. Szijjarto said that during its EU presidency Hungary will want to help Serbia open new accession chapters, Montenegro close multiple chapters, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia and Moldova to start actual, meaningful negotiations. The EU needs new member states that can bring much-needed momentum and freshness, such as the Western Balkan countries, Georgia or Moldova, Szijjarto said. He criticised what he called hypocrisy and double standards applied by certain member states and their leaders, who he said publicly supported enlargement but kept putting artificial roadblocks in front of the accession process. Meanwhile, Szijjarto said the EU should also speed up the integration process of the Western Balkan countries to forestall the spread of the influence of other states, including Russia. Large powers will naturally try to gain influence in countries not integrated into regional blocs, he said. The EU is in optimal position to open towards those states while the popularity of their membership is still high, albeit falling, he said. The longer we drag our feet on the accession process, the bigger the scepticism will grow. Szijjarto said that the hypocrisy of certain member states on the issue, who say one thing publicly and act very differently in the decision-making process, may be rooted in a fear that the liberal mainstream may not prevail so easily if the common sense of the Balkans takes part in EU decision-making. The upcoming EP elections are a ray of hope that that trend will turn, he said. Regarding Ukraines accession process, Szijjarto noted that the next step, setting up a negotiating framework, requires unanimous decisions. Thus, Hungary can also represent its interests, especially those regarding the rights of Transcarpathian Hungarians, he added. Ukraine will be able to say that the rights of the Hungarian minority are respected if they have restored the 2015 state of affairs, he said. Meanwhile, Fidesz MEP: EU Aiming to Curb Freedom of Speech The European Union is using legislative tools to grossly, radically curb freedom of speech and opinion, an MEP of ruling Fidesz told a conference in Budapest. Tamas Deutsch said the EU was working to introduce mandatory rules of conduct in various areas. He said recently adopted media regulations ran afoul of member states regulations as well as common EU rules. Meanwhile, to eliminate unwanted views, the EU also wanted to expand its definition of hate speech and reform regulations on political advertising, he added. Deutsch said the attack on the freedom of opinion is not a dystopia or a plan; its reality. The new legislation could come into force in every member state within months, bringing legal and financial sanctions against alternative opinions, he said. We must fight against attacks on our personal, community, national or European freedom, Deutsch said, adding that such efforts amounted to a fight for freedom. You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary 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! Many companies here are facing the issue that their foreign colleagues in leading and senior positions are treated in the same way as foreign guest workers under Hungary's new immigration law, because they lack a 'documented qualification', which could put them at several legal disadvantages. According to an expert from BLS-CEE Law Firm, companies employing foreign workers need to find tailor-made legal solutions to the new challenges created by the amendment. The new immigration law published in December 2023 has changed the immigration regulations in Hungary fundamentally. The new legislation came into force on January 1, which means that those who are affected have to adapt faster than expected. In addition to the changes, all procedures related to residence permits have been suspended between January and February 2024, creating additional administrative hurdles and issues for foreigners, the law firm notes. According to Reka Dancsa-Nabraczky, a specialist at BLS-CEE Law Office assisting several large companies in the region in relocating their employees, the new legislation may bring challenges for those who wish to take up a higher position typically not held by guest workers, without a specific higher or professional qualification. Under the previous legislation, regardless of the qualification level, it was possible to apply for a residence permit for work purposes (in Hungarian: munkavallalasi celu tartozkodasi engedely) for management positions if the applicant otherwise had the knowledge and experience required for the position. One of the most significant changes in the new law is that it distinguishes between the employment of individuals with and without tertiary qualifications for senior positions, categorizing the latter in the same group as guest workers. As a result of the new law, many workers who meet the job market requirements for a given high-level position, based on their skills, knowledge, and practical experience, will be treated in the same way as guest workers without a "paper" (e.g. diploma, degree, certificate) certifying higher education. This has several disadvantages: they cannot hold certain positions, they are not entitled to apply for a permanent residence permit, their family members are not entitled to apply for a family reunification permit, which is a simpler procedure (i.e. the joint relocation of the family is in doubt). They are also only allowed to hold a permit for a maximum of 3 years (as opposed to a maximum of 3 years for a professionally qualified person, which can be extended for a further 3 years), and the number of permits that can be issued each year is limited. Such cases can be dealt with through specific legal solutions, according to the BLS-CEE expert: legal advisers have to find the most favorable type of residence permit by taking into account several aspects (immigration, labor law, taxation) at the same time, in addition to guiding the company through the complex process of applying for a permit. Based on the law firm's experience, it is of utmost importance for large companies to ensure that the relocation of high-level employees to Hungary remains smooth, despite legislative changes and procedural novelties. The change in legislation will also place a significant burden on applicants and the National Directorate General of Immigration (OIF) and is expected to lead to major changes in the way procedures have been conducted in the past. You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary 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! Magyar Posta (Hungarian Post) intends to make it mandatory for online stores operating in Hungary to indicate the possibility of delivery by MPL (Magyar Posta Logisztika) in addition to the other existing delivery options used by customers. The Hungarian Post made this decision citing last years amendment to a 2012 government decree, albeit not without causing some inconvenience. According to their letter addressed to webshops and published on the site jovomenok.hu, MPL does not wish to monopolize its position but would still make it compulsory to list the state-owned company as a delivery option. Taking into account the prices of other delivery services, the service offered by MPL is 400-500 HUF gross more expensive than other options, according to the price list published by Magyar Posta. However, this decision marks just one aspect of the challenges facing the postal system. From March 28, if vendors do not sign a contract with MPL, they will be responsible for posting the parcels themselves. No courier will be dispatched to collect them from vendors without a contract. The regulation will impose an additional logistical and financial burden on webshops without contracts with Magyar Posta, potentially leading to price or delivery fee increases. The infrastructure for the increasingly widespread automated pick-up points is a well-established network in the country. According to the Economx article, there are currently 4,500 pick-up and drop-off kiosks in the country, of which 550 are managed by MPL; the rest belong to independent market delivery companies (Foxpost, GLS, etc.). Number of pick-up points by operators: GLS: 1280 units Foxpost: 950 units Packeta: 852 units eMAG / Sameday: 700 units Alza (Alzabox): 178 units Source: Economx Magyar Posta has recently been in financial difficulties, leading to the closure of offices. By reducing the number of outlets providing postal services and increasing its tariffs, the public operator has still not been able to correct its market position and improve the efficiency of its services. This recent move, unpopular with many retailers, could result in slower and more cumbersome postal services, rather than the anticipated improvements in service quality and efficiency in response to market pressure. Arguments rage about whether the current intervention was intended to improve the situation of Magyar Posta, or whether it was designed to suppress other operators and possibly force them to introduce tariffs similar to MPL. The Hungarian community forum (r/hungary) on Reddit regularly discusses the quality of various parcel delivery services, but most of the comments, many negative, are about MPL and Magyar Posta. It is often the case that the postal service is not customer-oriented, bureaucratic, and employees are often rude to clients, as some of the comment below shows: I was waiting for a letter (supposed to be the main job of the post office to deliver letters), the notice arrived, I went to the office, waited 40 minutes for 3 people to be served in front of me and was told to go back tomorrow because they close in 15 minutes and there was no time for me. I got frustrated, then they graciously asked me why I was here. I showed them the notice and she could NOT find my letter and said it wasnt here. In another case, a commenter reported information and tracking failures and damage in a parcel from abroad. The parcel arrived, but opened, incomplete (things were stolen). 250 EUR damageNo compensation, not even an apology. The webshop was terribly nice, they sent me a replacement for the stolen stuff. Finally, a case of a parcel ordered to an MPL pick-up point, where the recipient was informed by the postal service that he had to pick up the parcel in person at a post office two kilometers from the pick-up point: Ive had several occasions where Ive specifically asked for a parcel at an MPL machine, and then been told to go to the post office 2 kilometers away and queue up to pick it up. Despite the outrage, Magyar Posta had argued that the measures are necessary in order to fulfill its legal obligations. As they say in their statement: Magyar Posta JSC. has a legal obligation to make postal services available and accessible to all, thus ensuring that the population has access to affordable and high-quality postal services, regardless of their geographical location, through the universal postal network. You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary 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! The State Audit Office (ASZ) has established that parties in the opposition alliance before the 2020 parliamentary elections were involved in illegal campaign financing, ASZ head Laszlo Windisch said. Presenting ASZs report on its investigation, Windisch said that the parties had received over 261 million forints (EUR 671,200) illegally from abroad via the Hungary Belongs to Everybody (MMM) movement. ASZ has ruled that the beneficiaries of the illegal funding, Democratic Coalition, Jobbik, Momentum, Socialist Party, and LMP should pay the entire sum shared equally to the central budget within 15 days. Windisch added that national tax and customs authority NAV were investigating MMM in connection with a further 1.4 billion forints to clarify if that sum had been used for campaign financing. ASZs report notes that the investigation had to be undertaken because accepting donations from abroad is illegal under Hungarian law. Windisch noted that Peter Marki-Zay, the oppositions joint candidate for prime minister in the parliamentary elections, had said after the vote that MMM had set up an account that had been used to fund the operations of the oppositions central campaign, including candidates. The ASZ chief said this clearly constituted illegal campaign financing, and the audit office had reached out to MMM seeking clarification of its role in supporting the campaign. ASZs investigation found that MMM and the opposition parties had set up a campaign council to coordinate their campaigns, and MMM had used funds from abroad to partially finance the parties billboards, leaflets and other campaign material, as well as joint events. The parties accepted the support, thereby breaking regulations against illegal party financing. Windisch said the parties cannot appeal ASZs report. The opposition parties protested ASZs findings, saying they suspected political reasons behind it. Momentum leader Anna Donath said in a statement that this was the second fine ASZ had imposed this year ahead of the European Parliament and local elections. Their reasons are again ridiculous, and they are using show proceedings to try to stymie their opponents, she said. Jobbik Conservatives said the ASZ fine had been imposed by the government as an act of revenge for the clemency scandal that erupted in recent weeks with the aim of stymying their rivals in the upcoming elections. The Socialist Party said they did not acknowledge ASZs findings and would take legal action, insisting that there were clearly political reasons behind the offices decision. Their statement added that if the opposition parties contested the elections together, these kinds of attempts to undermine them could be unsuccessful. The Democratic Coalition said it would take all possible legal steps in connection with the fine. The party said it would sue the state treasury if it carried out ASZs decision. Meanwhile, Judicial Orgs Decry Gyurcsany Statement 'Alleging Political Bias' The heads of the National Office of the Judiciary (OBH) and the National Council of the Judiciary (OBT) on Tuesday sent a letter to Ferenc Gyurcsany, the leader of opposition Democratic Coalition (DK), rejecting what they said were statements alleging political bias in the judiciary. In a Facebook post on Monday, Gyurcsany accused the judges ruling in procedures against lawmakers Andras Fekete-Gyor of Momentum and Laszlo Varju of DK of bias, the letter said. Further, [Gyurcsany] suggested that the names of judges and prosecutors in procedures against politicians should be noted down, the letter signed by Gyorgy Senyei of OBH and Peter Szabo of OBT said. Procedures will not turn into political trials just because they are conducted against politicians, it said, adding that Hungarys Fundamental Law guaranteed equality before the law. We reject your statements suggesting political bias on the part of our fellow judges. While judges can be criticised they must not be threatened, nor should threats be hinted at, the letter said. You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary 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! Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is scheduled to visit Budapest on Feb 23, at the invitation of Prime Minister Viktor Orban, the Hungarian PMs press chief said. The prime ministers will discuss defence and security cooperation and preparations for Hungarys EU presidency in the second half of the year, Bertalan Havasi said. Kristersson and Orban will hold a joint press conference after the talks, he added. Meanwhile, Fidesz Asks Parliament to Debate Swedens NATO Bid Hungarys ruling Fidesz has asked parliament to put the ratification of Sweden's NATO accession onto its agenda for next Monday, the first day of the national assembly's spring season. Mate Kocsis, Fideszs group leader, shared the groups letter to Speaker of Parliament Laszlo Kover on Facebook on Tuesday, and said his party would support the vote on the ratification bill. Prime Minister Viktor Orban said in a speech last weekend that it was good news that our dispute with Sweden is nearing a conclusion. Together with the Swedish prime minister they made important steps to rebuild trust, he said, adding that the Hungarian parliament could ratify Swedens NATO accession at the start of its spring session. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who is scheduled to visit Budapest on Friday for talks with Orban, said on Monday that he believed there was a strong will on Hungarys part to finalise his countrys NATO accession. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has welcomed Kristenssons decision to visit Budapest, saying the meeting could further the Hungarian parliaments ratification of Swedens NATO membership. You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories, via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary 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! Greenwood Cemetery Spring Clean-Up YORK Spring clean-up of winter decorations will begin March 1st by the Greenwood Cemetery staff. If you have a tattered American flag, please do not dispose of them in the cemetery waste baskets. Drop flags off at the cemetery garage to be disposed of properly. As a reminder, solar light decorations are prohibited in the cemetery. Lattes with Leaders YORK The York Young Professionals will hold Lattes with Leaders on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 7-8 a.m. at Wendys in York. Come sit and enjoy breakfast with Derek Dauel, owner of Billies Grilled Cheese. We will hear about his journey to starting a business within the community and then open for discussion. Breakfast at the expense of the member. No RSVP required. York Eagles Club Ca$h Ba$h YORK York Eagles Club 3990 presents their Ca$h Ba$h! Dont miss your chance to win $100 every 10 minutes for two hours! The last drawing is $700! If youre a lucky winner your ticket will be put back in and you could win multiple times! You do not need to be present to win, or a member (But we would love to have you as one!) Tickets are on sale now! Only 300 tickets will be sold! Drawing will be held on April 25 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Enjoy one free meal per ticket purchaser (only one name on a ticket) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Proceeds will be split between York Special Olympics and Hope Crisis Center. Direct Questions to Celeste 402-366-8138 or Christi 402-710-1313. In addition to the monetary donation, we will be placing tubs at the entrances of the club to collect items to be donated to help the Hope Crisis Center assist victims. St. Patricks Fish Fry in Utica UTICA A Fish Fry will be held on Friday, Feb. 23 at St. Patricks in Utica. Serving will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at Utica St. Patricks Catholic Social Hall in Utica. Cod, cheesy potatoes, coleslaw, rye bread, lemonade, water or coffee and dessert will be served. Adults and children age 7 and over are $15; Children 6 and under are free. To go meals and adult beverages will be available. Proceeds will go towards church renovations. St. Josephs Fish Fry YORK St. Josephs Church and School, at 5th and East Ave. in York, will hold their annual Fish Fry on Friday, Feb. 23. The Drive Thru will be open from 4:30-7 p.m. and Dine In and Carry Out will be available from 57 p.m. Fish, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw and bread will be served every Friday from Feb. 9 through March 22. Adults (12 and up) are $14, Children (4-11) are $9 and Children Under 4 are free. Desserts available for $1. Bingo Night in Bradshaw BRADSHAW Bradshaw Marketing Hometown America will host a Bingo Night on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 1-4 p.m. at the Bradshaw Community Center. Fun for the whole family. No entry fee. All ages welcome. Prizes awarded and light refreshments and cookies will be provided. All Bingo supplies will also be provided. Henderson Home Show HENDERSON The Henderson Home Show will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Heartland Community Schools North Gym. Exhibitors will be on hand with information and ideas to help improve your home and provide ideas for your next big project. Customer appreciation booths, hand crafted items and great quality products will be for sale along with a pancake feed and chili cook off to round out the day. Regenerative Ag Conference SEWARD The Upper Big Blue NRD will hold a Regenerative Ag Conference at the Janzow Campus Center Cattle Conference Room on the Concordia University campus in Seward on Wednesday, Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This free event for producers and crop consultants will be an opportunity to learn about regenerative ag practices, what funding is available for these practices and how to utilize them to be more profitable and sustainable. It will feature speaker Mitchell Hora, farmer and CEO of Continuum Ag and will be hosted by the Upper Big Blue, Little Blue, Lower Big Blue and Lower Platte South NRDs in collaboration with Green Cover Seed. CEUs will be offered for crop consultants. Register by Feb. 14 at https://www.upperbigblue.org/regnerative-ag. Milligan Brass Band & Neal to perform FRIEND The Milligan Brass Band & Neal will perform on Sunday, March 3 at the Friend Historical Society, 511 2nd Street in Friend. A free will offering will be taken. Contact Harold at 402.366.7137 with any questions. Lauren and Lucas Corbett once followed the so-called American dream. They earned college degrees and started careers. They built a big house and purchased cars. They had two children. But then, Lauren said, they started wondering, Is this all we are supposed to do or is there more? A huge jump in their real estate taxes helped answer that question. It felt silly to build this big house and use a fraction of it when there is so much world to see, said Lauren, who grew up in Bellevue. Lucas is a South Omaha boy. When they realized they could work remotely and live in an Airbnb anywhere in the world for around the same amount as their mortgage and utility payments, they sold the house and began their journeys in November of 2018. The 38-year-olds have now been to more than 30 countries. Theyve stayed in ocean-front residences, been stranded for days by an airport workers strike in Portugal and roamed the pyramids of Egypt nearly alone during the pandemic, waking up each morning to a view of the Nile River. That is a priceless experience, Lauren said. Lucas still remembers thinking, Are we really doing this? when they took off the first time. Now, theyre in the midst of a journey that will take them to Hawaii, Spain, Greece, Portugal and Albania. After a summer in Plattsmouth, living in the spacious basement of Laurens parents, theyll head for Hungary, Germany and who knows where else. Everyone we meet, they say, Thats amazing. We wish we could do it, Lucas said. Well, you can if you really wanted to. Its not easy, they both admit. They spend a lot of time looking for flights, train tickets and the best places to stay. Lauren refers to the family as team carry-on because they never check bags. Lucas calls the planning involved a mini job and his hobby. I still get a high from getting a deal, he said. Most of their travels are based on those deals. They flew to Australia and Fiji round-trip for $530, which Lauren said was one of the most fun and exotic places theyve visited. Their Christmas Market trip to Europe last year was $220 round-trip out of John F. Kennedy International Airport. If theyre not flying on a great cash rate, they use points accrued on a credit card. Theyll often stay in a city for several weeks if the Airbnb host provides a monthly discount. They work during the day while kids Annabelle, 10, and Hampton, 8, do their home studies. Every afternoon were going out in the city and checking things out, Lucas said. They spend a lot more time with each other than the usual family, in which parents are working full-time and then racing to activities, and they like that. While the kids sometimes long to be home playing with their neighborhood friends, they also adore the playgrounds found in Europe. The Corbetts have made friends along the way and will arrange to meet up with other families on their travels. Many times, those friends will introduce them to locals in the area, which adds another layer to an experience. We have a better understanding that there are so many different cultures and beliefs and ways of doing things, Lauren said. I think weve changed because of that. In Spain, every day everyone does siesta. We should totally adopt that. Lauren wants to see as much of the world as possible, but she said she loves visiting Paris and they return to Spain at least once a year. Theyve experienced only a few major problems along the way, such as when they rented a place in an unsavory part of Barcelona. They were able to move to a hotel, and Lucas said he now does a much better job of checking out a neighborhood before booking. Theyve never been robbed. While they cant imagine ever tiring of traveling, they know things could change. We are like hooked, Lauren said. One day, something will happen and it will change our situation. For now, we are just going. Photos: Traveling the world with the Corbetts (Bloomberg) -- Chinese stocks rallied as authorities clamped down on trading by quant funds, the latest in a series of endeavors to put an end to the rout. Most Read from Bloomberg The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index advanced 2.2% to close at its highest level in seven weeks. Property developers were among the biggest gainers following a state media report on billions of dollars worth of funding approved for the sector. Wednesdays advance may stoke optimism that policy efforts to rescue the equity market are paying off, at least for now. Measures have turned more forceful of late, with state funds seen actively purchasing shares. Chinas two main stock exchanges vowed to tighten supervision of quantitative trading, taking their aim at leveraged products that have been blamed for triggering volatility. The crackdown on quantitative trading by regulatory agencies helped weaken short-selling forces, said Shen Meng, director at Chanson & Co in Beijing. Investors are also looking ahead to announcements related to upcoming policy meetings, he added. The HSCEI gauge has seen a trough-to-peak gain of 13%, the biggest since the reopening rally faltered at the start of last year. Earlier this week, lenders delivered a bigger-than-expected cut to a key mortgage reference rate. That came as the securities regulator said it will take heed of all suggestions from market participants and address their concerns promptly. Meanwhile, the CSI 300 benchmark of onshore shares advanced 1.4% in its seventh straight session of gains, the longest winning streak in more than a year. Foreign investors snapped up more than 13 billion yuan ($1.8 billion) worth of domestic shares via trading links with Hong Kong, the most since July, according to Bloomberg-compiled data. Story continues It is necessary to crack down on quantitative trading now, given such trading behaviors have triggered a round of market rout, said Yu Yingdong, general manager at Shenzhen Cowin Asset Management Ltd. The regulatory crackdown is not a bad thing for the market, especially for retail investors. It is reasonable for the market to consolidate at this level. The restrictions on quant trading, however, risk driving away foreign investors and money managers who value to ability to trade freely. Some market participants also worry that the curbs are merely delaying a wave of redemptions. Some of the top gainers in the HSCEI gauge including Longfor Group Holdings Ltd. and SenseTime Group Inc. were those that had been shorted the most, suggesting the outsize moves are partly driven by a rush to cover short positions. The rally may also soon fizzle out if authorities fail to follow up with stronger measures to drive a fundamental upturn in the economy. Investors are now shifting their focus to the National Peoples Congress in the coming weeks for clues on Beijings willingness to ramp up support. We believe the A-share market is bottoming with the support from Beijing, said Kelly Chung, chief investment officer of multi assets at Value Partners. However, sentiment remains weak, and investors will only return when they see improvement in the property sector and consumption demand. --With assistance from Mengchen Lu and Abhishek Vishnoi. (Updates with market closing prices. Earlier version corrected references to days of week.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. New Delhi: The anticipation surrounding Kiran Rao's upcoming directorial venture, 'Laapataa Ladies,' is escalating with each passing day. The film's trailer, featuring the talented lead cast of Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastav, and Nitanshi Goel, has garnered an enthusiastic response from fans and audiences alike. It has successfully captured the attention of the masses, offering a glimpse into Kiran Rao's captivating storytelling within an Indian backdrop. In the wake of the trailer's resounding success, the filmmakers organized a grand screening of the film in Delhi. Kiran Rao, accompanied by lead cast members Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastav, and Nitanshi Goel, graced the event. The audience at the Delhi screening responded with exuberance, applauding and praising the film. The comedy-drama left a lasting impression on the Delhi audience, earning accolades for its writing, humor, social commentary, and the cast's performances. It evoked a sense of nostalgia for the essence of a true entertainer, resonating well with the viewers. This accolade is not a standalone achievement for 'Laapataa Ladies.' The film has already garnered international acclaim, receiving a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Additionally, it has received positive responses from screenings held in Bhopal, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Bangalore. Scheduled for release on March 1st, 2024, 'Laapataa Ladies' is directed by Kiran Rao, and produced by Aamir Khan and Jyoti Deshpande under the banners of Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions. The film is based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami, with screenplay and dialogue crafted by Sneha Desai, complemented by additional dialogues from Divyanidhi Sharma. The film promises to be a delightful cinematic experience, showcasing Kiran Rao's directorial finesse and the collective talent of its stellar cast. New Delhi: As the release date of Jio Studios and Aamir Khan Productions 'Laapataa Ladies' directed by Kiran Rao draws closer, the film is generating positive buzz among the masses. While the trailer has received a solid response from the audiences, the two songs, 'DoubtWa' and 'Sajni' have also received a thumbs up from everyone. Following the response to all the contents that have been coming out from the film, the masses are eagerly looking forward to entering into the entertaining and humorous world with the film, releasing in cinemas on March 1st, 2024. As the release days draw closer, the makers are organizing screenings of the film in various cities. Recently, a screening of the film was held in Delhi city which was graced by director Kiran Rao and the lead promising cast. Following the screening in Delhi, the team was traveling back to Mumbai. In a recent surprise, the team of Indigo Flight, the flight on which the Laapataa Ladies team was traveling made a special announcement in honor of Kiran Rao and said, "Attention Passengers, We have film director Kiran Rao on board with us. We wish her all the best for her film Laapataa Ladies, releasing in cinemas on March 1st, 2024" The entire passengers on the flight clapped and cheered for Kiran Rao and the cast Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava. Presented by Jio Studios, 'Laapataa Ladies' is directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan and Jyoti Deshpande. The film Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava along with Ravi Kishan and is releasing on March 1st, 2024, and has been made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions and Kindling Productions, with the script based on an award-winning story by Biplab Goswami. The screenplay and dialogue are written by Sneha Desai, while the additional dialogues have been jotted down by Divyanidhi Sharma. New Delhi: Ravi Modi's journey from being a prodigious math talent in his childhood to becoming a prominent figure in the fashion industry as the founder of Vedant Fashions, the creators of the renowned Manyavar brand, is a captivating tale of determination and entrepreneurial vision. His early prowess in mathematics foreshadowed a future filled with remarkable accomplishments. After gaining experience in his father's modest retail store in Kolkata and briefly considering pursuing an MBA, Modi took the leap into the business world. With just 10,000 borrowed from his mother, he embarked on his venture with Vedant Fashions. Beginning by manufacturing Indian attire and targeting markets across various states, Modi laid the groundwork for Manyavar's success. His strategic decisions, such as partnering with large retail chains and establishing exclusive brand outlets, significantly expanded the reach of his business. By 2005-06, Manyavar had become a staple in major stores throughout India, and in 2008, it opened its inaugural exclusive brand outlet in Bhubaneswar. This shift in focus towards expanding exclusive outlets marked a pivotal moment in the company's strategy. Modi's asset-light and highly efficient approach yielded remarkable returns. Presently, Manyavar operates in over 1.3 million square feet of retail space across 230 cities in India, with plans for further expansion, particularly in southern regions such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Modi's success transcends mere numerical achievements; it's also about the transformative impact he's had. His inclusion in the 2022 Forbes Worlds Billionaires List, ranking 1,238 with a net worth of $2.5 billion, which surged to $3 billion by April 2023, speaks volumes. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Vedant Fashions Limited concluded the fiscal year with robust profits, a testament to the resilience of its business model. Modi's faith in destiny, coupled with his innovative business strategies, has not only propelled Vedant Fashions to a valuation of 26,000 crore but has also revolutionized the Indian ethnic wear market. The company's expansion into online sales and the introduction of new product lines like Twamev and Manthan, catering to diverse market segments, reflect a calculated approach to capturing a larger share of India's growing wedding and celebratory wear market. The triumph of Vedant Fashions under Modi's leadership underscores the importance of strategic planning, market understanding, and an asset-light business model. With a significant market presence and a commitment to ongoing innovation, Vedant Fashions and Manyavar are poised for sustained growth and success in the Indian fashion landscape. As we gracefully navigate through the decades of life, certain changes become inevitable, and one aspect that subtly transforms is our posture. Beyond the age of 30, a series of gradual shifts occur, impacting our height, gait, and overall spinal alignment. On average, individuals experience a loss of about half an inch in height every decade from their peak, with this reduction becoming more pronounced after the age of 70. According to Dr Rajeev Rajesh, Chief Yoga Officer, Jindal Naturecure Institute, "A key player in this evolution is the change in intervertebral discs gelatin-like cartilage between each vertebra - that tends to harden and lose flexibility with age, leading to spinal curvature and a forward tilt known as kyphosis." Here is a detailed interaction with Dr Rajeev on how to improve your posture and different yoga asanas that can help ease the foundational poses for a better body structure as you age: How Yoga Enhances Posture Yoga, a comprehensive practice encompassing physical poses (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation (dhyana), synergistically contributes to both your physical and mental well-being. The following highlights how yoga can positively impact and refine your posture: Strengthening Your Core The core, comprising muscles in the abdomen, back, pelvis, and hips, plays a pivotal role in supporting the spine and maintaining an upright stance. Yoga's efficacy in enhancing posture stems from its ability to strengthen the core, thereby stabilizing the torso and preventing slouching. Increasing Flexibility Flexibility, defined as the range of motion in muscles and joints, is crucial for preventing tension, stiffness, and injuries. It also plays a significant role in sustaining proper posture by ensuring the spine stays aligned and restricting compensatory movements. Poses like downward dog, cat-cow pose, and shoulder opener pose are instrumental in gradually enhancing flexibility over time. Yoga Poses for Posture Correction Here are some foundational poses you can practice at home: Tadasana Palm Tree Pose In an ideal stance for everyday life, Tadasana engages the entire body. Place your feet together and look in front at eye level. Interlock the fingers of the hands. While inhaling, raise the heels and arms. Align your head, ensuring the chin is parallel to the floor and the crown directly over your pelvis Maintain the position with normal breaths. While exhaling, bring the heels and hands down. Vrikshasana - Tree Pose This graceful pose emulates the solid stance of a tree, promoting a tall and straight posture. Stand upright, shifting your balance to your right foot. Place the sole of your left foot onto your inner thigh. The heel should be closer to the genitals. While inhaling, raise your hands above the head and join the palms together. Focus your gaze on a point in front of you for improved balance. Hold the final position for a minute To release, while exhaling, bring your hands down. Repeat on the other side. Sukhasana - The Comfortable Pose Ideal for meditation, Sukhasana is a straightforward yet effective posture. Sit with legs outstretched and back erect. Place palms on the floor behind your hips, fingers pointing backwards. Cross your legs, right foot under the left thigh and left foot under the right thigh. Keep the spine straight, hands on knees, eyes closed, and body relaxed. Breathe slowly and evenly, maintaining the pose. Bhujangasana - Cobra Pose Gently stretching the spine and opening the chest, Bhujangasana counteracts rounded shoulders. Lie on your stomach and keep the legs together. Place the palms beside the chest. While inhaling, engage back muscles to lift the head, and upper torso and look up. Align elbows under shoulders for support. Maintain the position for some time with normal breaths. While exhaling, bring the chin down and relax. New Delhi: The AAP and the Congress were too late in their talks over seat sharing in Delhi for Lok Sabha polls, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday, amid reports by sources in both sides that the prospects of an alliance have faced a setback. On Tuesday, Kejriwal had said that talks for seat sharing in the national capital were in final stages and a partnership between the two parties would be declared soon. There are seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi currently held by the BJP. News agency PTI citing sources in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) reported that if the alliance did not materialize with the Congress, the party could announce its candidates in the next few days. When questioned by reporters on the likelihood of alliance with the Congress in Delhi, Kejriwal said, It is too late, it should have occurred much earlier. Let us see what happens in the next one-two days. Delhi Congress president Arvinder Singh Lovely said that the party is ready for elections on all the seven constituencies in Delhi. The committee headed by Mukul Vasnik is constantly talking to the members of the INDIA bloc. It would not be proper for me to comment about that, he told reporters. Sources said despite several rounds of talks between the leaders of two parties, a consensus over number of seats to be fought by them was yet to be reached. Congress sources claimed that the party wanted to fight four of the seven Lok Sabha seats and leave the rest for the AAP. This is justified as in the 2019 polls, the Congress candidates were second on six of the seven seats in Delhi while AAP candidates were on third place except for South Delhi constituency, said a senior Delhi Congress leader. Although AAP leaders remained silent on seat sharing, sources in the party said, The Aam Aadmi Party wants to fight four seats North East Delhi, West Delhi, South Delhi and North West Delhi. The AAP earlier said it was holding talks with the INDIA bloc partners for a pact in Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi, and Goa. The party has already decided to go alone in Punjab. AAP national general secretary (organisation) Sandeep Pathak recently said that the party has demanded eight out of 26 Lok Sabha seats from the Congress in Gujarat. He said that the AAP won five seats by polling a total 13 per cent votes in the last Assembly polls in Gujarat and claimed eight Lok Sabha seats in the state for the upcoming polls, while offering remaining 18 to the Congress. He had also offered one Lok Sabha seat in Delhi to the Congress saying it did not merit even that based on its previous election track record. The Congress currently does not have any Lok Sabha MP or MLA from Delhi. The AAP has so far unilaterally declared its candidates in two seats each in Gujarat and Assam and one in Goa. Pathak had said that if a decision was not soon taken on seat-sharing in Delhi, his party would declare its candidates. The BJP won all the seven seats in Delhi consecutively in 2014 and 2019 elections. Interestingly, the BJP candidates in 2019 polled more votes than the combined tally of Congress and AAP candidates. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday slammed the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) over the rigging of the Chandigarh mayoral polls. Speaking in the assembly, Kejriwal said that similar incidents happened during the Pakistan national elections. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader said the BJP made the losing person win by a huge margin by rigging the ballots. Arvind Kejriwal's statement came a day after the Supreme Court delivered its verdict in the Chandigarh Mayoral poll case in the favour of the AAP. Welcoming the Supreme Court judgement, Kejriwal yesterday said that the verdict is a major victory for the INDIA bloc, adding that the BJP can be defeated with proper planning and strategy. Kejriwal termed the judgement as the victory of democracy. The Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra annulled the ruling made by Returning Officer Anil Masih, who proclaimed BJP candidate Manoj Kumar Sonkar as Chandigarh Mayor last month. The Supreme Court's decision was prompted by the discovery that the Returning Officer intentionally invalidated/defaced eight ballots that were cast in favor of Kuldeep Kumar, the joint candidate of AAP-Congress. On Monday, Masih informed the bench that he had marked the ballot papers because they were already defaced, intending to prevent them from being mistakenly mixed with other ballots. Despite attempting to justify his position on Tuesday, the court remained unconvinced. The CJI checked the ballots himself and noted that they were valid and ruled in favour of Kuldeep Kumar, declaring him the winner of the mayoral polls. The top court also said that the returning officer must be prosecuted for his wrongdoings. Leaders from opposition parties welcomed the verdict. The decision gave a boost to the INDIA bloc parties who were standing on a shaky ground over indecisiveness of the seat-sharing ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Women often face several challenges while working. While these challenges may be societal, sometimes they face discriminatory laws as well. Verdict in one such case was recently delivered by the Supreme Court in which a government employee challenged a similar discriminatory law. Delivering the verdict, the apex court said any law that deems the marriage of female employees and their domestic responsibilities as grounds for incompetence is unconstitutional. In a significant ruling, the top court ordered the Central Government to pay a compensation of Rs 60 lakh to a former permanent commission officer of the Military Nursing Service who was terminated from her job after marriage in 1988. After the Armed Forces Tribunal later decided to reinstate the woman, the Supreme Court, hearing the case, stated, 'such paternalistic rules violate the rights of equality. With this, the legal battle of the woman officer, spanning three decades, came to an end. What was the law? The court was also informed that Army Instruction No. 61 of 1977, titled Terms and conditions of service for the grant of permanent commissions in the 'Military Nursing Service', has been withdrawn by a subsequent letter on August 29, 1995. According to which appointment termination can occur based on the Medical Board's judgement regarding unfitness for service, marriage, or misconduct. However, in 1995, when this case was ongoing, the rule was withdrawn. The court asserted that former Lieutenant Selina John was a permanent commission officer in the Military Nursing Service, and it cannot be accepted that she could be terminated because she got married. This rule applied only to female nursing officers. In its final verdict, the court stated that being dismissed from the Military Nursing Service was incorrect and illegal. The court remarked that such a rule was arbitrary since terminating employment due to a woman's marriage constitutes gender discrimination and inequality. Rules based on gender bias are constitutionally unacceptable. John joined the Military Nursing Service under the rules in 1982, serving as a trainee at the Army Hospital in Delhi. NEW DELHI: Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda said on Wednesday that the central government is ready to discuss all the issues raised by the Punjab farmers. He further invited the farmers for a fifth round of talks while urging them to find a solution through 'dialogue'. "After the fourth round, the government is ready to discuss all the issues like MSP, crop diversification, stubble issue, FIR in the fifth round. I again invite the farmer leaders for discussion," Arjun Munda said while speaking to ANI on Wednesday. "I appeal to them to maintain peace and we should find a solution through dialogue," he added. He said that the farmers have not responded to the invite yet while appealing to move forward with the talks. "No information has come yet (from farmers' side). We appeal that we should move forward for talks and present our stand. The government also wants to move forward and find a solution," the Union Minister said. Minister Munda is one among the team of union ministers holding talks with the farmer leaders, including Piyush Goyal and Nityanand Rai. Earlier in the day, the general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Sarwan Singh Pandher reiterated the demand for a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) and assured a peaceful approach going ahead. The farmer leader said that as the 'Dilli Chalo' resumed on Wednesday, only the leaders will be marching towards the national capital. "We have decided that no farmer, youth will march forward. Leaders will march ahead. We will not attack our Jawans. We will go peacefully. All this can be ended if they (central govt) make a law on MSP," Sarwan Singh Pandher said while speaking to ANI. Also, addressing the protesting farmers, he appealed to move forward peacefully. After the fourth round of talks ended in a stalemate, the farmers resumed their March on Wednesday morning. On Febaruary 19, the farmer leaders rejected the Centre's proposal on MSP purchase, saying "not in farmer's favour". "After the discussion of both forums, it has been decided that if you analyse, there is nothing in the government's proposal. Our government imports palm oil worth Rs 1.75 crore from outside that also causes illness to general public. If this money is given to the farmers of the country to grow oil seed crops and MSP is announced, then that money can be used here. This is not on the favour of farmers. We reject it," farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said. "If the government is not giving legal guarantee of MSP, it means that the farmers of the country will continue to be looted. This is not acceptable," he added. After the Centre brought a proposal to purchase crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP), farmers leaders rejected the proposal on Monday evening, saying that it had nothing for them. Meanwhile, the farmers leaders were seen wearing protective gears including masks, safety glasses and headphones to defend the resistive measures undertaken by the security forces. In resistance to the protests, the forces used tear gas shells, water cannons apart from the multi-layer barricading deployed at various borders of Delhi. Several farmers and police personnel were injured in the clashes during the March that started in February 13. The protesting farmers have been camping at the Shambhu border near Ambala since the start of the March. The two sides -- ministers and farmer leaders -- had met earlier on February 8, 12 and 15 but talks remained inconclusive. New Delhi: In a surprising turn of events, Bilawal Bhutto, the chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), has given up his ambition to become the prime minister of Pakistan and instead secured the presidents post for his father, Asif Ali Zardari, who is also the co-chairman of PPP. Bilawal has struck a deal with Nawaz Sharif, the leader of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), to form a coalition government in the country, ending the political uncertainty that prevailed for 12 days after the general elections. In today's DNA, Zee News analysed the deal between PPP's Bilawal Bhutto and PML-N's Shehbaz Sharif to form a coalition government in Pakistan, ending the political uncertainty that prevailed for 12 days after the general elections. According to the deal, Nawaz Sharifs younger brother, Shehbaz Sharif, will be the prime minister for the first three years, while Bilawal will be the deputy prime minister. In the last two years, Bilawal will take over as the prime minister, while Shahbaz will become the deputy prime minister. Zardari will be the president for the entire five-year term. The coalition partners have also decided to share the key ministries among themselves, with PML-N getting the finance, foreign affairs, defence, and interior portfolios, while PPP getting the information, law, energy, and railways portfolios. The coalition will also include the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), who have won 17 and 4 seats respectively in the National Assembly. The coalition has a comfortable majority of 150 seats in the 272-member National Assembly, while the main opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by Imran Khan, has only 31 seats. The PTI has alleged massive rigging in the elections and has refused to accept the results. It has also announced that it will boycott the oath-taking ceremony of the new government and launch a nationwide protest. The coalition has been welcomed by the international community, especially by the United States and China, who are the major allies and investors of Pakistan. The coalition has also expressed its willingness to improve its relations with India, Afghanistan, and other neighboring countries, and to cooperate in the fight against terrorism and extremism. However, the coalition also faces many challenges, such as the economic crisis, the energy shortage, the security situation, and the judicial activism. It remains to be seen how the coalition will overcome these hurdles and deliver on its promises to the people of Pakistan. Watch Today's DNA for a detailed analysis of Bilawal Bhutto-Nawaz Sharif's deal to form government in Pakistan elections: In a huge loss for the legal fraternity and nation, veteran advocate Fali S Nariman died today at the age of 95. Nariman was suffering from multiple ailments, including cardiac issues. Nariman was born on January 10, 1929, and enrolled as an advocate at the Bombay High Court in November 1950. He was promoted to senior advocate in 1961. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Justice Of India D Y Chandrachud expressed their grief over his demise. Nariman, was often referred to as the "Bhishma Pitamah" of the Indian judiciary. Nariman received the Padma Bhushan in January 1991 and in 2007, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan. Who Was Fali S Nariman? Nariman, born in Rangoon (now Yangon), hailed from an affluent background with his parent being a successful business executive. The Nariman family sought refuge in India when Fali was 12, escaping the Japanese invasion in 1942. With a legal career spanning over 70 years, he began practising law in the Bombay High Court and continued his legal journey in the Supreme Court from 1972 onward. In May 1972, Nariman was appointed as the additional solicitor general of India. However, he resigned from the position just a day after the declaration of Emergency on June 26, 1975. Professional Journey Throughout his extensive and distinguished legal career, Nariman played a pivotal role in arguing several landmark cases. Some notable instances include his involvement in the Bhopal gas tragedy case, the TMA Pai case, the Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case, and the well-known case concerning the National Judicial Appointments Commission, which was ultimately invalidated by the Supreme Court. He also authored several books. He was also nominated as a member of the Rajya Sabha in November 1999. Prime Minister Modi, CJI Condole Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his tributes to Nariman and called him one of the most "outstanding legal minds". PM Modi said, "Shri Fali Nariman Ji was among the most outstanding legal minds and intellectuals. He devoted his life to making justice accessible to common citizens. I am pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. May his soul rest in peace." Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud also condoled the death of legal doyen and veteran advocate Fali S Nariman, saying he was a "great giant of an intellectual". "Mr Attorney General, we mourn the sad demise and passing away of Fali Nariman. He was a great giant of an intellectual," Chandrachud told Attorney General R Venkataramani as he began the day's proceedings in the apex court. City planners want the public to weigh in on proposed regulations for developers if they join a plan the city adopted in 2016 as a road map for new building projects planned along Lady Bird Lake's southern shores across from downtown. City planners want the public's feedback on draft rules for developers to follow if they opt into the city's vision for new projects planned along Lady Bird Lake's southern shores, just across from downtown. The city has released the draft regulations for its so-called South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan, which the Austin City Council adopted almost eight years ago, in June 2016. The city aims to ensure that future development along the south shore of Lady Bird Lake occurs in a cohesive fashion and that projects include community benefits, like open space or affordable housing, in exchange for allowing developers extra height and density. The city approved that plan, which involved extensive community feedback, as a road map for new development that the city realized would be coming to 118 acres, mostly in the hands of more than 30 private owners, along the southern shores of Lady Bird Lake. The city aims to ensure that future development occurs in a cohesive, rather than piecemeal fashion, and that projects include community benefits, like open space or affordable housing, in exchange for the city allowing developers extra height and density. Now, the city is asking for the public comments once again, on its proposed regulations that would codify (that is, put in the city's land-use code) what would be required of developers who opt in to the waterfront framework plan passed in 2016. The 118-acre South Central Waterfront District is bounded by Lady Bird Lake on the north, South First Street on the west, Blunn Creek to the east and East Riverside Drive and East Bouldin Creek on the south. The draft regulations for the South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan are open for public comment until March 20. Residents can learn more at three upcoming community meetings. The city's Planning Department is asking community members to review the draft document and contribute comments and questions online at SpeakUpAustin.org/SouthCentralWaterfront. The draft regulations are open for public comment until March 20. Residents can learn more at three upcoming community meetings. The South Central Waterfront District represents a unique chance to build a destination in Central Austin that reflects the community at its best, said Lauren Middleton-Pratt, director of the Planning Department. It will tie into the citys culture, with connections to Lady Bird Lake and the (Ann and Roy Butler) Hike-and-Bike Trail, views of downtown, and proximity to South Congress and Auditorium Shores. Story continues Plans call for creating both a so-called combining district and a density bonus project. A combining district groups together multiple parcels, allowing them to benefit from development regulations different from the base zoning code in the area. A density bonus program incentivizes community benefits in exchange for allowing developers added density. The draft rules are the result of a City Council resolution passed in 2022 directing city staffers to create regulations needed to implement the vision outlined in the 2016 framework plan. The framework plan, developed between 2012 and 2016 with the participation of stakeholders and hundreds of Austinites, aims to leverage future development just south of Lady Bird Lake through a districtwide approach in order to: Create an attractive and lively pedestrian environment Expand open space and build great new public spaces Enhance connections to and along Lady Bird Lake Generate affordable housing The councils 2022 resolution requested regulations that create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play. So far, the largest project proposed for the South Central Waterfront District is the redevelopment planned for the roughly 19-acre site that formerly housed the American-Statesman newspaper offices at 305 S. Congress Ave. As the largest new development planned to date in that area, it's the property from which the city hopes to gain the most public benefits under the South Central Waterfront plan. After several years of negotiations, much controversy and even a related lawsuit, the City Council in December 2022 approved a zoning change for the site to allow for a large development with high-rise towers and a mix of uses, including housing, offices, shops and restaurants. The public meetings for the proposed regulations involving the waterfront plan are as follows: Meeting 1 Online Feb. 28, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Register for Zoom Spanish interpretation available Meeting 2 In-Person March 18, 6-8 p.m. Austin Public Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez St. Register for meeting Accessible by CapMetro Routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 20, 30, 801, and 803 Parking at Central Library or City Hall will be validated. Spanish and ASL interpretation available Meeting 3 Online March 20, 10 p.m.-11:30 a.m. Register for Zoom Spanish interpretation available Once the public comment period ends March 20, city planners will review the feedback and incorporate potential changes into the proposed rules. They also will make presentations to city boards and commissions, with City Council action anticipated in late May. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: South Central Waterfront District Lady Bird Lake City of Austin New Delhi: Farmers leaders on Wednesday postponed the Delhi Chalo march for two days after a protester lost his life and about 12 police personnel got hurt in clashes at Khanauri, one of the two protest sites on the Punjab-Haryana border. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher told reporters at Shambhu that they will determine the next course of action on Friday evening. Punjab farmers at Khanauri and Shambhu had restarted their agitation early in the morning after a two-day break following the fourth round of talks on Sunday night with a panel of three Union ministers in an effort to end the deadlock. We condemn the atrocities carried out by Haryana Police on protesting farmers at Khanauri and Shambhu borders. Many of our farmers have suffered injuries and several are missing. In view of the situation, we have decided to halt our Delhi Chalo march for the next two days. In these two days, we will meet the families of injured and missing farmers and will decide on our future course of action," Farmer leader Pandher said while addressing media. VIDEO | Heres what Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee head Sarwan Singh Pandher said during a press conference on the scuffle between protesting farmers and Haryana Police. We condemn the atrocities carried out by Haryana Police on protesting farmers at Khanauri and pic.twitter.com/YfLqotwFvE Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 Thousands of farmers will stay camped at the two border points during the pause in the agitation over their demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and farm debt waiver. Farmer leader Baldev Singh Sirsa identified the dead farmer as Subhkaran Singh (21), a resident of Baloke village in Punjabs Bathinda district. Patiala-based Rajindra Hospitals medical superintendent H S Rekhi told reporters that three people, one of them dead, were taken to the hospital from Khanauri. The deceased had a wound to his head and the other two are stable, Rekhi said. Farmers will assess the situation that arose at Khanauri where a young farmer died in a clash with Haryana police personnel, Pandher said. We will talk about the whole issue and the next decision will be declared on Friday evening, Pandher said. A Haryana Police officer said around 12 police personnel were injured when they were attacked with sticks and stones were hurled. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher today said that the Prime Minister's duty is to safeguard the constitution and it's their right to hold peaceful protests. Speaking to ANI before the 'Delhi Chalo' march, Pandher stressed the need for decisive action, expressing dissatisfaction with the minimal offerings from the central government. The farmers will try to enter Delhi today after they rejected the government's MSP proposal for five years. Demands For Acceptance And Access To Delhi Pandher urged the Prime Minister to step forward and meet their demands, insisting that the farmers should be allowed to march to Delhi. He further said that Rs 1.2 lakh crore, or Rs 2 lakh crore, is not a big amount for the government. Adding to his sentiments, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal clarified that their intention is not to instigate chaos. Dallewal slammed the government for the placement of barricades, saying that it is not right to put up such huge barricades just to stop them from entering the national capital. Assuring that they do not want any violence, he said that if the government extends its hand, we will certainly support. Arjun Munda Appeals For Dialogue Reacting to the farmers' rejection of the government's proposal, Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare of India, Arjun Munda said that the government's intent is to do good. Munda welcomed constructive opinions saying, We always welcome good opinions... But to find a way on how that opinion will be fruitful, the only way is conversation. He highlighted that a solution will crop up only through conversation. Talks With Farmers During the fourth round of talks on Sunday, protesting farmer leaders engaged with three Union Ministers, including Commerce and Agriculture Minister Piyush Goyal, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai. The meeting also involved Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other farmer leaders. The meeting lasted for about six hours where the government proposed a five-year purchase proposal for certain crops which was ultimately rejected by the farmers. New Delhi: As the farmers Delhi Chalo protest rages on, the Haryana government has decided to keep the mobile internet and bulk SMS services shut down in seven districts of the state till February 23. The order, issued by the government, stated that Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa districts would not have access to mobile internet services. The Delhi Chalo protest, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, is demanding a law on minimum support price for crops and other issues from the Centre. The protest march was paused for two days on Wednesday after a clash at Khanauri, one of the two border points between Punjab and Haryana, resulted in the death of a protester and injuries to about 12 police personnel. The other border point, Shambhu, along with Khanauri, remains occupied by thousands of farmers who are camping there to press for their demands. Internet suspension in Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa districts in the state of Haryana extended up to 23 February. pic.twitter.com/P3GfleOoCB ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2024 The farmer leaders, who are part of the protest, had earlier rejected the Centres offer to buy pulses, maize and cotton at the MSP from government agencies for five years, saying it was not beneficial for the farmers. The farmers from Punjab had started their march to Delhi on Tuesday, but were stopped by the security forces at Shambhu and Khanauri points on the Punjab-Haryana border. The protesters have not moved from the two border points since then. T V S N Prasad, the Additional Chief Secretary of Haryana, said in the order that extended the mobile internet ban till Friday, The current law & order situation in the state is still critical and tense in the district Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa. He added, There is a high risk of public utilities, public assets and public law and order being disrupted in the above-mentioned districts due to the misuse of internet services by spreading inflammatory material and false rumours. The order was issued under Section 5 of Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and Rule 2 of Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules 2017. The order also said that the mobile internet services, bulk SMS (except for banking and mobile recharge) and all dongle services, etc. provided on mobile networks (except for voice calls) in the seven districts would be suspended till February 23. This is not the first time that the suspension has been imposed. It has been extended several times before i.e. on February 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20. The order said that the suspension was necessary to maintain peace and public order in the districts. After the farmer unions rejected the Central government's five-year purchase plan, around 14,000 agitators are waiting at Shambhu border waiting to enter Delhi by breaching the barriers. Heavey deployment of security forces are seen at Shambhu, Singhu and Ghazipur Borders. Protestors also clashed with security forces at Shambhu border and the forces resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the unruly mob. Union Minister Arjun Munda said that talks should be the way forward and added that the government will consider opinions on the issue. The protesters from Punjab plan to break barricades and enter Haryana. Farmer leaders resumed their 'Delhi Chalo' march today after rejecting the Centre's proposal for procuring three pulses, maize and cotton at the minimum support price (MSP) by government agencies for five years. Traffic remained heavily affected at Delhi borders including Ghazipur, Delhi-Noida-Delhi expressway and Delhi-Gurugram expressway. VIDEO | Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march: Security forces fire tear gas shells as agitating farmers try to proceed to Delhi from Punjab-Haryana #ShambhuBorder.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/hJCbowtYmi Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 VIDEO | Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march: Heavy traffic witnessed at Delhi-Gurugram border. pic.twitter.com/T31AW3L2d9 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 21, 2024 Centre Writes To Punjab Government The Union Government has informed the Punjab government that nearly 14,000 people have gathered along the Punjab-Haryana border with 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses as well as small vehicles. The Central government also conveyed its strong objections to the Punjab government for allowing such a huge gathering. In a letter to the Punjab government, the Union Home Ministry said that the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state has been a matter of concern over the last few days. The home ministry also asked the state government to take stringent action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many miscreants in the guise of farmers were indulging in stone-pelting, mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjab's border with Haryana. Haryana Police Writes To Punjab Cops On the other hand, Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapoor asked his Punjab counterpart to seize bulldozers and other earthmoving equipment from the interstate border which they say protesters will use to break barricades and it could pose a threat to the security forces deployed at the border. After this, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav ordered state police to not allow JCB, Poklane, Tipper, Hydra and other heavy earthmoving equipment to move towards Khanauri and Shambu border points. On the instructions of DGP Punjab, the SHO of Shambhu police station and another officer were injured while stopping the farmers while taking heavy vehicles and JCB towards Shambhu border. Fresh Clashes Possible With Haryana and Punjab police taking action against heavy vehicles including earthmovers, fresh clashes are most likely between protestors and security forces as agitators have said that they will move forward with these vehicles. The farmers had also clashed with the security personnel at the two border points. The protesting farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri points on the Punjab and Haryana border since their 'Delhi Chalo' march was stopped by security forces on February 13. Punjab And Haryana HC Order The Punjab and Haryana High Court yesterday slammed the protestors for camping at the Shambhu border with hundreds of tractors, saying tractor-trailers can't be used on highways. A bench of acting Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia and Justice Lapita Banerji questioned the Punjab government for allowing the assembly of farmers in such large numbers. Justice Sandhawalia orally asked the state government to ensure that protestors are not gathered in large numbers as "they have the right to protest but it is subjected to reasonable restrictions." In a setback for the Congress party, the Income Tax Department yesterday recovered Rs 65 crore from the party's account out of the total outstanding tax dues of Rs 115 crore. The Congress party then moved to the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) against the recovery amount deduction and filed a complaint hearing for which is likely to be held today. In its complaint, the Congress party contended that the Tax Department enforced its lien by encashing some of the balances lying with the banks without waiting for the outcome of the scheduled hearing in the ITAT. Terming the move undemocratic, the Congress appealed that the department should not proceed further till the disposal of the stay application. The ITAT then directed the tax department to maintain a status quo in the matter and will take up the case at 2:30 pm today. Meanwhile, Congress leader Ajay Maken alleged the misuse of government agencies. "Concerns rise over the actions of Central Government agencies, potentially threatening the multi-party system in India. If unchecked, democracy in India- will be over. Without intervention of the judiciary, our democratic principles will be endangered," said Maken. Alarming Update: Concerns rise over the actions of Central Government agencies, potentially threatening the multi-party system in India. If unchecked, democracy in India- will be over. Without intervention of judiciary, our democratic principles will be endangered. Stay tuned Ajay Maken (@ajaymaken) February 21, 2024 The tax department's action came four days after the tax department de-freeze accounts of the Congress party in a tax case related to 2018-19. The department had frozen the accounts on February 14 over a cash transaction of around Rs 14 lakh in the party's account against which the party moved to the ITAT and the tribunal ordered the re-opening of the accounts with a lien. New Delhi: The AAP government in Punjab on Wednesday sent a strong reply to the Centres letter on the farmers protest, saying it was totally incorrect to allege that the state government was permitting gathering at the two border points with Haryana. The Punjab governments reply came after the Centre expressed its serious objection to the assembly of protesters, estimating that nearly 14,000 people have congregated along the Punjab-Haryana border. Protesting farmers have been staying at Shambhu and Khanauri points on Punjabs border with Haryana after their Delhi Chalo march to pressurize the Centre for various demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops, was halted by security forces which led to clashes last week. In its communication to the Punjab government, the Union Home Ministry also said the worsening law-and-order situation in the state over the past few days has been a cause of worry and asked it to take strict action against lawbreakers. The home ministry said many troublemakers in the disguise of farmers were engaging in stone-pelting, and mobilising heavy machinery along the Shambhu on Punjabs border with Haryana. According to reports prepared by central security agencies, nearly 14,000 people have been allowed to assemble at the Shambhu barrier on Rajpura-Ambala Road, with nearly 1,200 tractor-trolleys, 300 cars, 10 mini-buses and other small vehicles, the home ministry said. Likewise, Punjab has allowed a gathering of around 4,500 people with close to 500 tractor-trolleys at the Dhabi-Gujran barrier, it claimed. In response, Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma said it was totally incorrect to allege that the Punjab government was permitting people to assemble at Shambhu and Dhabhi-Gurjan borders. Farmers were heading to Delhi to stage a protest but due to restrictions on their movement, farmers were at the borders of Punjab and Haryana, he said. Verma said that so far, more than 160 people have been injured due to tear gas shells, rubber bullets, use of physical force and drones by the Haryana Police. Yet the Punjab government has sensibly maintained the law and order situation, he said. He also said the Punjab government played a vital role in negotiations between farmer leaders and a panel of union ministers with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann himself attending three out of four such meetings. In one of the meetings which he could not attend, the CM deputed a cabinet minister and senior officials, he said. The chief secretary called for showing more compassion towards farmers, saying the law and order issue during the protest should be handled in a more sensitive way as Punjab is a border state. Over 2,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain peace, according to the communication. The situation is being continuously monitored, we will take steps if required, the chief secretary said. Maratha Reservation Activist Manoj Jarage Patil on Wednesday, announced the Rasta Roko protest to be held across the state on March 3. The protest is to demand the implementation of the Sage Soyare ordinance notification in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra government passed a similar bill yesterday providing 10% reservation in jobs and educational institutions to the Marathas, but the bill failed to meet the demand of the reservation activists. Following this, Patil has refused to end his fast-unto-death strike. Although Patil welcomed the bill, he voiced his concerns regarding the bill's likelihood of successfully undergoing legal scrutiny. He said that a similar bill was subsequently dismissed in 2021 due to legal challenges. Reasons For Continued Hunger Srike The demands of Patil specifically insist on the inclusion of all Marathas as Kunbi, a caste in Maharashtra falling under the Other Backward Caste (OBC), thus urging for a broader eligibility criteria based on this classification. He pushes for the extension of Kunbi registration to blood relatives (Sage Soyare). However, In January, after receiving assurances from the state government, Jarange had decided to end the protest. Nevertheless, on February 10, he initiated a new hunger strike which continues still. The proposed 'sage-soyare' draft notification streamlines the process for issuing Kunbi certificates to Maratha relatives, provided they can furnish relevant documents establishing their Kunbi lineage. This includes individuals within the same patriarchal lineage and those connected through marriage within the same caste. These Kunbi certificates are pivotal in securing OBC quota inclusion for Marathas, leading to heightened concerns and opposition as Marathas anticipate a significant impact on their reservation allotment. Whats the New Bill? The Maharashtra government unanimously passed the Maratha Reservation Bill on Tuesday after considering all the observations made by the Supreme Court. The bill provides 10% reservation in jobs and education to the Maratha Community, which accounts for 28% of the states population. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde introduced the Maharashtra State Reservation for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes Bill 2024. This bill is drafted following the recommendations of the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission, which identified the Marathas as a socially and educationally backward community. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is working towards its mission 'Abki Baar, 400 Paar' and the party is aware that 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh will prove crucial in achieving the target thus the party has decided to woo the Muslim voters as well. Uttar Pradesh has around 20 per cent Muslim population and they play a crucial role in deciding the winners in at least 29 Lok Sabha seats including some in Western Uttar Pradesh. BJP To Campaign In Mosques, Madrasas The BJP has decided to tap Uttar Pradesh's mosques and madrasas as well through its campaign. The party will conduct the poll campaign in Urdu and Arabic languages to woo Muslim voters. The campaign will start from Lucknow today. The campaign will commence from the Dargah Hazrat Kasim Shahid. The party has also planned to distribute of 'Mann Ki Baat' book in Urdu. Wooing Muslims Across India Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been actively working on a strategy to engage with Muslim voters, especially women and Pasmanda Muslims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself emphasized this outreach during the BJP's National Executive meeting. Recently, the BJP Minority Front has planned to launch a program connecting with minorities nationwide starting March 10. The BJP is specifically eyeing 60 constituencies across the country where minorities are in the majority. Focus On 29 UP Lok Sabha Seats The BJP anticipates a significant impact if even five to ten thousand minorities join the party. In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP Minority Front, aligning with PM Modi's goals, is concentrating on all 29 seats where minorities, particularly Muslims, have a significant presence. Western Uttar Pradesh, known for its Muslim majority, includes constituencies like Saharanpur, Meerut, Kairana, Bijnor, Amroha, Moradabad, Rampur, Sambhal, Bulandshahr, and Aligarh. Among these constituencies, Saharanpur, Bijnor, Amroha, Sambhal, Moradabad, and Nagina are currently not held by the BJP. Although Rampur was lost by the BJP in the general elections, it was later reclaimed in a by-election. The BJP believes that if a similar level of support is gained on other minority-majority seats, as seen in Rampur, they have the potential to secure all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh. New Delhi: Iconic radio personality and the voice behind 'Geetmala', Ameen Sayani, passes away on Tuesday night. The legendary radio presenter was rushed to HN Reliance Hospital in Mumbai after the heart attack, where he eventually breathed his last. His son Rajil Sayani confimed the news on Wednesday. Rajil Sayani mentioned, "The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldn't save him, and he was declared dead." The funeral is scheduled for Thursday, with the family awaiting the arrival of some relatives in Mumbai today. Born on December 21, 1932, in Mumbai, Ameen Sayani gained fame over the years for his melodious voice and captivating style. Initially starting as an English-language broadcaster, he later transitioned to Hindi. Ameen Sayani became renowned for his immensely popular radio show 'Binaca Geetmala,' a program that played a pivotal role in popularizing radio listening in India. His iconic introduction, "Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon," became instantly recognizable and often imitated. Ameen Sayani produced, hosted, or voiced over 54,000 radio programs and 19,000 jingles since 1951. Ameen Sayani's 'Geetmala,' featuring well-known Hindi film music, became a national phenomenon and captivated listeners for decades. Hamid Sayani, Ameen's brother, introduced him to All India Radio, Bombay, and he commenced his radio career with Radio Ceylon in 1952. Ameen Sayani also made appearances in several movies, including 'Bhoot Bungla,' 'Teen Devian,' 'Boxer,' and 'Qatl.' His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, and his distinctive voice will resonate through the generations. New Delhi: Power couple Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani are finally tied in the holy matrimony. The couple got married in Goa in presence of their friends and family. Both looked stunning in pastel ethnic outfits. Rakul stunned in a peach coloured lehenga with matching jewelry and Jackky looked dapper in an egg-white sherwani. The couple performed 'Anand Karaj' in the day and got married with Sindhi rituals in the evening. Sharing the happy pictures on Instagram, Rakul wrote in the caption, "Mine now and forever 21-02-2024 #abdonobhagna-ni" Fans have flooded the comment section with heart-eye and love emojis. Rakul and Jackky kicked off their pre-wedding festivities in Goa on March 19 with a haldi ceremony. Later, the couple also hosted their mehendi and sangeet functions where many Bollywood celebrities were spotted. Ananya Panday, Aditya Roy Kapur, Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra, Varun Dhawan and others are attending the couple's wedding in Goa. The couple had originally planned a destination wedding overseas but post Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for families to host their wedding festivities within India, the couple changed the location. On the work front, Jackky is a producer of some much-awaited films such as Mission Raniganj, Ganapath Part 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and so on. On the other hand, Rakul Preet Singh will next be seen in Meri Patni Ka Remake, Ayalaan and Indian 2. Stefano Pontecorvo, Chairman of Leonardo S.p.A of Italy has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, On my own behalf and on behalf of the Leonardo Company, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on the occasion of your re-election as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Thanks to your extensive experience and professional skills I am sure that the friendly relations between Italy and Azerbaijan will continue to develop further in a context of friendship and cooperation. As you embark on this new chapter of your career, I wish Your Excellency prosperity and continued success. Leonardo takes great pride in its positive and continuous relations with your country, and rest assured that our company remains committed to ensure that such positive relations will extend. Looking forward to meeting you personally, please accept the assurance of my highest consideration and esteem. Sincerely yours, Stefano Pontecorvo Chairman of Leonardo S.p.A. of Italy" Assessing the Sustainability of Cummins Inc's Dividend Payouts Cummins Inc (NYSE:CMI) recently announced a dividend of $1.68 per share, payable on 2024-03-07, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-02-22. 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 Cummins Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability. What Does Cummins Inc Do? Warning! GuruFocus has detected 7 Warning Signs with CMI. 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? Cummins is the top manufacturer of diesel engines used in commercial trucks, off-highway equipment, and railroad locomotives, in addition to standby and prime power generators. The company also sells powertrain components, which include transmissions, turbochargers, aftertreatment systems, and fuel systems. Cummins is in the unique position of competing with its primary customers, heavy-duty truck manufacturers, who make and aggressively market their own engines. Despite robust competition across all its segments and increasing government regulation of carbon emissions, Cummins has maintained its leadership position in the industry. Cummins Inc's Dividend Analysis A Glimpse at Cummins Inc's Dividend History Cummins Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1986. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Cummins Inc has increased its dividend each year since 1997. The stock is thus listed as a dividend aristocrat, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 27 years. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends. Cummins Inc's Dividend Analysis Breaking Down Cummins Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth As of today, Cummins Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.51% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.60%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Story continues Over the past three years, Cummins Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 7.20%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 7.70% per year. And over the past decade, Cummins Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 10.00%. Based on Cummins Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Cummins Inc stock as of today is approximately 3.64%. Cummins Inc's Dividend Analysis The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-12-31, Cummins Inc's dividend payout ratio is 1.27, which may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Cummins Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Cummins Inc's profitability 9 out of 10 as of 2023-12-31, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability. Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Cummins Inc's growth rank of 9 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Cummins Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Cummins Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 21.50% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 82.9% of global competitors. The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Cummins Inc's earnings increased by approximately -24.20% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 14.11% of global competitors. The company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of -11.90%, which outperforms approximately 12.3% of global competitors, also contributes to the overall perspective on its growth. Next Steps In conclusion, while Cummins Inc's dividend payments and growth rate are commendable, the high payout ratio raises questions about the long-term sustainability of these dividends. However, Cummins Inc's strong profitability and growth metrics provide some reassurance for the future. As value investors consider the prospects of Cummins Inc, they must weigh the potential for continued dividend increases against the financial fundamentals that support such payouts. Can Cummins Inc continue to deliver value to shareholders through dividends without compromising its financial health? This is a question that investors will need to monitor closely. For those looking to expand their portfolio with high-dividend yield stocks, GuruFocus Premium users can utilize the High Dividend Yield Screener for informed investment decisions. 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. New Delhi: Power couple Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani are finally tied in the holy matrimony. The couple got married in the 'Anand Karaj' ceremony with close friends and family in Goa. As confirmed by their team, the couple Rakul and Jackky got married in a traditional Anand Karaj ceremony and will now take part in a Sindhi ceremony. Their first official wedding pictures are now awaited. Rakul and Jackky kicked off their pre-wedding festivities in Goa on March 19 with a haldi ceremony. Later, the couple also hosted their mehendi and sangeet functions where many Bollywood celebrities were spotted. Ananya Panday, Aditya Roy Kapur, Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra, Varun Dhawan and others are attending the couple's wedding in Goa. Anand Karaj is the Sikh marriage ceremony, meaning "Act towards happiness" which was introduced by Guru Amar Das. The practice of circumambulating around the Guru Granth Sahib to conduct a marriage ceremony is a relatively recent innovation that supplanted the tradition of circumambulating around the sacred fire (havan) in the early twentieth century. The couple had originally planned a destination wedding overseas but post Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for families to host their wedding festivities within India, the couple changed the location. Also, Goa was the place where it all started and their romance flourished. "Choosing Goa is a sentimental decision for them and the wedding is going to be absolutely serene," quoted Pinkvilla. Talking about Jackky Bhagnani and Rakul Preet Singh, the duo has been together for a while now. Jackky is a producer of some much-awaited films such as Mission Raniganj, Ganapath Part 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and so on. On the other hand, Rakul Preet Singh will next be seen in Meri Patni Ka Remake, Ayalaan and Indian 2. New Delhi: Bank of India has launched festive offer on Farm Mechanization, Krishi Vahaan schemes for farmers, offering term loan solution for financing various agricultural essentials, including farm machinery, implements and transport vehicles. Bank of India's festive offer is valid until 31 March 2024. "Bank of India has launched an exciting festive offer on two impactful schemes Farm Mechanization and Krishi Vahaan valid until 31 March 2024. These initiatives are aimed at addressing a significant challenge faced by farmers and agri entrepreneurs gaining access to essential financial aid," the bank said in a release. Bank of India festive offer: Check Loan Coverage The Krishi Vahaan and Farm Mechanization loans from the Bank offer a seamless term loan solution for financing various agricultural essentials, including farm machinery, implements and transport vehicles. The Krishi Vahaan loan covers up to 90 percent of the ex-showroom price of the vehicle and, importantly, requires no collateral for loans up to Rs 25 lakh for farmers and up to Rs 1 crore for agri entrepreneurs. For farm machinery, loans are available up to 85 percent of the cost, Bank of India said. "What makes these schemes stand out are the tangible benefits they offer farmers and agri entrepreneurs. From no hidden charges to a straightforward documentation process, these loans are customised for maximum convenience with simplified application process and quick disbursal," Bank of India said. "This commitment from Bank of India underscores its dedicated effort to offer accessible and efficient financial solutions. The Bank aims to empower farmers and agri entrepreneurs, enabling them to navigate the challenges of modern agriculture with confidence. Additionally, this initiative aligns with and supports Honble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modis vision to increase farm income and enhance productivity. This is more than just a financial offering. Rather, its a significant step towards a more prosperous agricultural future," said Bank of India in a statement. New Delhi: A resident of Washington, DC, finds himself entangled in a legal battle with Powerball and the DC Lottery after believing he had won the staggering jackpot of $340 million. John Cheeks, the hopeful winner, purchased a lottery ticket on January 6, 2023. Unexpected Turn Of Events Although he missed the Powerball drawing the following day, he was astonished to find his numbers listed on the DC Lottery's website two days later. However, both organizations claimed it was a mistake. (Also Read: Navi Mumbai Woman Cheated Of Rs 1.92 Crore In Online Share Trading Scam) Mixed Emotions Reflecting on the moment he thought he won, Cheeks expressed, "I got a little excited, but I didnt shout, I didnt scream." He calmly informed a friend and took a photo as advised. (Also Read: Unbelievable Scene In Hospital: Man Spotted Consuming Tobacco Despite Oxygen Mask And Medical Tubes; WATCH Video) However, his elation turned into disappointment when his claim was rejected by the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG). Despite being told by OLG to discard the ticket, Cheeks refused to give up. Instead, he chose to take legal action against Powerball, seeking justice for what he believed was rightfully his. Legal Action And Claims Cheeks' lawsuit targets the Multi-State Lottery Association and game contractor Taoti Enterprises. He is demanding $340 million in damages, comprising the jackpot amount and accrued daily interest. The lawsuit includes allegations of negligence, fraud, breach of contract, and emotional distress. Perspective Of The Lawyer Richard Evans, Cheeks' attorney, emphasized that the issue extends beyond mere numbers on a website. He asserts that because Cheeks' numbers matched the winning combination, he should be entitled to the entire jackpot. Upcoming Proceedings The legal saga is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for February 23, 2024. As Cheeks fights for what he believes is rightfully his, the outcome of the case remains uncertain. New Delhi: Artificial intelligence will provide a helping hand and free up a lot of time for chartered accountants to focus on analytical work, ICAI President Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal said on Wednesday and highlighted that there is a huge demand for chartered accountants. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) expects there will be a need for around 30 lakh chartered accountants in the next 20 to 25 years and last year, around 22,000 students cleared the chartered accountants examination. At a briefing in the national capital, Agarwal, who took charge as the president on February 12, said a committee will be coming out with a roadmap in the next two months on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). (Also Read: Govt Plans For Simplification, Digitalisation Of KYC Process) He emphasised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a tool and is saving a lot of time. "This will give you (chartered accountants) more time for application of mind, analytics... I believe AI is going to be a helping hand for the profession of chartered accountants so that they can focus more on other analytical areas". Adding further, ICAI President said that "AI taking away the compliance part from the chartered accountants and giving them more scope to work on bigger areas... AI cannot overtake human intelligence," In the audit profession, for instance, to check a 700-page annual report of a listed company, one can make a PDF and put it in Chat GPT. Now, one doesn't have to read the 700 pages as an auditor. "You have to ask the questions like what is the profitability, what is the adverse comment... Whatever you ask, Chat GPT will answer," Agarwal said. Amid instances of chartered accountants coming under the regulatory scanner, Agarwal said the institute has self-developed "so many checks and balances". The target is to have "lesser anomalies", he said, adding that efforts are made to continuously enhance the skills of the chartered accountants. For non-compliances, ICAI is also taking action against members, he added. (Also Read: Salaries In India To Increase By 9.5% In 2024; Infra, Manufacturing Sectors Lead) The institute will also provide suggestions to the government on increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio as well as on green finance. The tax-to-GDP ratio, which is less than 3 per cent now, should improve for the country to become a developed economy by 2047. In the developed countries, the ratio is around 22 per cent, he noted. Besides, a committee will identify irrelevant laws and make suggestions in this regard to the government. New Delhi: Recently, police in Maharashtra have taken action against nine individuals for allegedly tricking a 40-year-old woman from Navi Mumbai out of Rs 1.92 crore through online share trading. Read further to find out the minute details of the story. How The Scam Unfolded? The accused individuals enticed the victim, a resident of New Panvel, into participating in the online trading of shares by promising significant returns on her investments. (Also Read: Unbelievable Scene In Hospital: Man Spotted Consuming Tobacco Despite Oxygen Mask And Medical Tubes; WATCH Video) Financial Losses Incurred The victim complied with the instructions provided by the accused and transferred a total of Rs 1,92,82,837 to various bank accounts since December 2023. However, despite her investments, she found herself unable to withdraw any funds later on. (Also Read: Bhavish Aggarwal Visits Hindu Mandir In Abu Dhabi, Shares Pics; Says 'India Will Rise As A Vishwaguru') Police Complaint Frustrated by the lack of satisfactory responses from the accused regarding her inability to withdraw funds, the victim decided to take action. She filed a formal complaint with the cyber police station. Legal Action Taken On Tuesday, the police registered a case against the nine individuals under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 420 (cheating), 406 (criminal breach of trust), and 34 (common intention), along with provisions of the Information Technology Act. (With PTI Inputs) New Delhi: The homegrown consumer tech brand Noise has introduced a new set of true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds, the Noise Buds N1, in India. They will be available in India for Rs 899. The newly launched earbuds will be offered in four colour options: Calm Beige, Carbon Black, Ice Blue, and Forest Green. They will be available for purchase via Amazon, as well as other platforms which will be revealed on February 27th. The Noise Buds N1 true wireless earbuds are compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems. (Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G Gets Price Cut For Both Models In India, Check New Price) Now, let's unwrap the features of the Noise Buds N1 earbuds Noise Buds N1 Design The earphones boast an in-ear design, providing a comfortable and secure fit for users. Noise Buds N1 Drivers They are engineered with 11mm drivers, delivering superior audio quality with enhanced clarity and depth. Noise Buds N1 Connectivity They feature Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for seamless pairing with compatible devices, ensuring a hassle-free user experience. Additionally, the earbuds offer HyperSync technology for seamless and instant pairing. Noise Buds N1 Battery With remarkable battery life, these earbuds offer up to 40 hours of total playback time on a single charge, making them perfect for extended use. (Also Read: Beware iPhone Users! Dont Put Your iPhone In A Bag Of Rice; Heres Apples Advice) Noise Buds N1 IP Rating The earbuds feature an IPX5 rating, making them resistant to splashes and sweat, ideal for workouts or outdoor activities. New Delhi: Encrypted messaging platform Signal is set to launch a new update called Signal usernames. The new update will offer enhanced privacy options and a new way to connect without revealing your phone number. However, the new update is currently in beta but will be available to all users in the coming weeks. Notably, the Signal still requires a phone number when registering for the app. The company has made a statement and said that People who have your number saved in their phone's contacts will still see your phone number since they already know it". You can now create a unique username that you can use instead (you will still need a phone number to sign up for Signal). Introducing usernames and phone number privacy on Signal! Were making it possible for people to connect with each other without having to share phone numbers. Now launching to beta users, available for everyone soon. https://t.co/YcBEyD1AIA February 20, 2024 Furthermore, the company explained that a username is not the profile name that's displayed in chats, it's not a permanent handle, and not visible to the people you are chatting with in Signal. A username is simply a way to initiate contact on Signal without sharing your phone number". (Also Read: YouTube Rolls Out New Channel Pages On Its TV App For Creators) "The users can also now enable a new, optional privacy setting. Unless people have your exact unique username, they won't be able to start a conversation, or even know that you have a Signal account even if they have your phone number, said the company. You can sign up for beta to test these features. Note that Apple caps the number of iOS beta testers, and we have reached that limit. If you use Signal on iOS, you can get around this by signing up for Desktop beta, linked to your iOS account. See more: https://t.co/W3HCoaWG89 Signal (@signalapp) February 20, 2024 According to the company, once these features roll out, your phone number will no longer be visible in Signal to anyone running the latest version of Signal who doesn't already have it saved in their phone's contacts. We're also introducing a setting that lets you control who can find you by your phone number on Signal, it added. As last reported, Signal had 40 million active users. (Also Read: Noise Buds N1 True Wireless Earbuds Launched In India at Rs 899; Check Features) After the new update is released for users, you'll be able to create a unique username and share it by following the steps below. How to create a username on Signal app Open app settings. Click on Profile. Choose Create Username. Enter a unique username. Save changes. If You Want To Share Your Username Then Follow These Steps: After almost two weeks of poll results, two key political parties in Pakistan have agreed to form a coalition government, bringing an end to the deadlock and keeping Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf in the opposition. Addressing the media, PML-N President and former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the parties have agreed on a power-sharing formula. As per the deal, it has been decided that Shehbaz Sharif will be the joint candidate for both parties for the slot of Prime Minister and PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari will be the joint candidate for the President's slot, informed Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Shehbaz Sharif said that the independent candidates, who emerged victorious in the majority by securing more than 100 seats, were invited to form the government, but they failed to achieve the required numbers. He added that other parties such as the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, the Pakistan Muslim League, and the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party supported PML-N and PPP in the government-making endeavour. The upcoming government will work together to pull the country out of the ongoing crises, said Shehbaz Sharif, expressing the hope to be able to deliver. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto said the details of the sharing of key constitutional offices between the PPP and PML-N will be announced in the coming days. Previously, the Election Commission of Pakistan released the outcomes for 265 out of 266 seats in the National Assembly following the general elections held on February 8. No single political party attained a simple majority, necessitating alliances among parties to establish the central government for the next five-year term. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) showcases robust manufacturing and engineering capabilities, driving product innovation and customer satisfaction. Despite a strong market position, Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) faces challenges from economic fluctuations and competitive pressures. Opportunities for Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) lie in expanding global reach and leveraging new technologies for product development. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) must navigate threats from supply chain disruptions and evolving environmental regulations. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG), a leader in fluid management technology, filed its annual report on February 20, 2024. The Minnesota-based company, known for its specialized equipment for managing fluids, coatings, and adhesives, reported sales of approximately $2.2 billion in 2023. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) operates through three segments: industrial, process, and contractor, serving diverse markets such as industrial, automotive, and construction. The company's commitment to innovation and quality, coupled with strategic acquisitions, has positioned it as a key player in its industry. This SWOT analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as revealed in the latest 10-K filing, providing investors with a comprehensive understanding of Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s strategic position. Decoding Graco Inc (GGG): A Strategic SWOT Insight Strengths Manufacturing and Engineering Excellence: Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s strong manufacturing and engineering capabilities are central to its success. The company's focused factories and product cells, along with in-house critical machining, assembly, and testing, ensure high-quality and reliable products. This strength is evident in their recent expansion of manufacturing facilities in South Dakota and Romania, and a new distribution center in Minnesota, indicating a commitment to growth and operational efficiency. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s ability to produce premium customer experiences through these capabilities has helped it maintain a competitive edge in the market. Story continues Innovation and Product Differentiation: Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) has a strong track record of product innovation, targeting niche markets with specialized equipment solutions. The company's investment in new product development, as highlighted in the 10-K filing, is a testament to its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and meeting customer needs. This focus on innovation not only drives sales but also reinforces Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s reputation as a leader in fluid management technology. Weaknesses Dependence on Cyclical Industries: Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) operates in industries that are inherently cyclical, such as construction and automotive. This dependence can lead to volatility in sales and earnings, as economic downturns in these sectors directly impact the demand for Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s products. While the company has diversified its offerings, the cyclical nature of key customer industries remains a weakness that could affect long-term stability. Competitive Pressures: The 10-K filing acknowledges the competitive landscape in which Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) operates. With multiple competitors across product lines and geographies, the company must continually innovate and offer competitive pricing to maintain its market position. Some competitors have larger sales volumes and financial resources, which could pose challenges for Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) in sustaining its growth and profitability. Opportunities Global Market Expansion: Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) has the opportunity to further expand its global presence, particularly in emerging markets. With sales in the Americas, EMEA, and Asia Pacific, the company is well-positioned to leverage its existing international footprint to capture additional market share. Strategic investments in commercial and technical resources, as well as third-party distribution, could facilitate this global expansion and drive future growth. Acquisitions and Technology Advancements: The company's strategy of making targeted acquisitions to broaden its product offerings and enhance capabilities presents significant opportunities. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s recent acquisitions, although not material to the consolidated financial statements, demonstrate its proactive approach to growth. Additionally, advancements in technology offer the potential for Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) to develop new applications for its products, further diversifying its portfolio and revenue streams. Threats Supply Chain Disruptions: While the 10-K filing indicates that supply chain disruptions have stabilized, the potential for future disruptions remains a threat. Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG)'s reliance on global suppliers for raw materials and components means that geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, or other unforeseen events could impact its operations and profitability. Environmental Regulations: Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) must navigate an evolving landscape of environmental laws and regulations. As global concerns about climate change lead to stricter regulations, the company may face increased costs and operational challenges. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid penalties and maintain a positive corporate reputation, but it could also strain resources and affect the company's financial performance. In conclusion, Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) exhibits a strong foundation with its manufacturing and engineering prowess, innovative product lines, and strategic global presence. However, the company must address its vulnerabilities related to cyclical industry demand and competitive pressures. Opportunities for expansion and technological advancements offer promising avenues for growth, while supply chain risks and environmental regulations pose significant threats. Overall, Graco Inc (NYSE:GGG) appears well-equipped to navigate these challenges and capitalize on its strengths in the dynamic fluid management market. 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. Comprehensive SWOT analysis of The Hershey Co reveals a robust brand portfolio and strategic acquisitions as key strengths. Opportunities for The Hershey Co include expanding its international presence and leveraging new snacking trends. Threats such as supply chain disruptions and competitive pressures could impact The Hershey Co's market dominance. Weaknesses like reliance on the North American market and potential raw material price volatility require strategic attention. On February 20, 2024, The Hershey Co (NYSE:HSY), a titan in the confectionery industry, filed its 10-K report, offering a window into its financial health and strategic positioning. As a leading manufacturer with a commanding 45% share of the U.S. chocolate market, Hershey's portfolio boasts over 100 brands, including Reese's and Kit Kat. Despite a strong domestic presence, international sales account for a modest segment of its revenue. The 10-K filing provides a financial overview, revealing Hershey's strategic acquisitions like SkinnyPop and Dot's Pretzels, which diversify its offerings beyond confectionery. The company's financial tables indicate a solid balance sheet and sustained revenue growth, underscoring its financial resilience in a competitive market. Decoding The Hershey Co (HSY): A Strategic SWOT Insight Strengths Brand Portfolio and Market Leadership: The Hershey Co's strength lies in its impressive brand portfolio, which includes household names like Hershey's, Reese's, and Kit Kat. These brands not only enjoy widespread consumer recognition but also command significant shelf space in retailers across North America. The company's market leadership is further cemented by its 45% share of the U.S. chocolate market, a testament to its strong brand equity and loyal customer base. This dominance provides a competitive edge and pricing power, which is critical in a market where brand loyalty is paramount. Story continues Strategic Acquisitions and Diversification: Hershey's strategic acquisitions, such as SkinnyPop, Dot's Pretzels, and Lily's Sweets, demonstrate its commitment to diversification and innovation. These acquisitions have allowed Hershey to tap into the growing demand for healthier snack options and cater to evolving consumer tastes. By expanding its product range, Hershey has not only mitigated the risks associated with reliance on traditional confectionery but also positioned itself to capture new snacking occasions, driving revenue growth and market expansion. Weaknesses Dependence on North American Markets: Despite its international presence, The Hershey Co's sales outside North America contribute only a single-digit percentage to its total revenue. This heavy reliance on the North American market exposes the company to regional economic fluctuations and limits its growth potential. Diversifying its geographic revenue streams could reduce this vulnerability and provide a more balanced portfolio of risk and opportunity. Raw Material Price Volatility: The Hershey Co's dependence on raw materials like cocoa, sugar, and dairy products, which are subject to price volatility, presents a weakness. Fluctuations in these commodity prices can significantly impact production costs and profit margins. While Hershey employs hedging strategies to mitigate these risks, the potential for sudden price changes remains a challenge that could affect financial performance. Opportunities International Market Expansion: The Hershey Co has the opportunity to expand its international footprint, particularly in emerging markets where demand for confectionery and snacks is growing. By leveraging its strong brand recognition and adapting its product offerings to local tastes, Hershey can tap into new consumer segments and drive global sales. This expansion would also help balance the company's reliance on the North American market and provide new avenues for revenue growth. Snacking Trends and Innovation: The rise of health-conscious consumers and the demand for convenient, on-the-go snack options present significant opportunities for Hershey. The company's recent acquisitions align with these trends, and continued innovation in product development could further capitalize on the shift in consumer preferences. By staying ahead of the curve with new flavors, formats, and health-oriented products, Hershey can strengthen its market position and attract a broader customer base. Threats Supply Chain Disruptions: The Hershey Co's supply chain is susceptible to disruptions caused by natural disasters, political unrest, and other unforeseen events, particularly in cocoa-producing regions. Such disruptions could lead to shortages and increased costs for raw materials, adversely affecting production and profitability. Proactive supply chain management and diversification of sourcing are crucial to mitigate these risks. Competitive Pressures: The confectionery and snack markets are highly competitive, with numerous multinational and local players vying for market share. Intense competition requires continuous investment in marketing, product innovation, and price competitiveness. Hershey must navigate these pressures to maintain its leadership position and avoid losing ground to competitors who may offer similar products at lower prices or with innovative features. In conclusion, The Hershey Co (NYSE:HSY) exhibits a robust SWOT profile, with its strong brand portfolio and strategic acquisitions serving as key strengths. However, the company must address weaknesses such as its dependence on the North American market and the volatility of raw material prices. Opportunities for international expansion and capitalizing on snacking trends are within reach, while threats from supply chain disruptions and competitive pressures loom. By leveraging its strengths and opportunities while strategically addressing its weaknesses and threats, Hershey is well-positioned to continue its confectionery and snacking dominance. 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. You deserve relief: President Biden wipes out another $1.2 billion in student debt for borrowers on the SAVE plan House Republicans call move 'unlawful' Another wave of student debt relief has rolled in for nearly 153,000 borrowers in the U.S. The Biden administration announced on Wednesday it will wipe out $1.2 billion in student debt for certain borrowers who took on loans of $12,000 or less for college. To qualify, borrowers must have made at least 10 years of repayments and be enrolled onto the governments new Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan. We are once again sending a clear message to borrowers who had low balances: if youve been paying for a decade, youve done your part, and you deserve relief, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. According to CNBC, more than half of House Republicans and 40 GOP senators (including Minority Leader Mitch McConnell) actively oppose the Biden administration's debt relief policy. Earlier this month, they filed briefs with the with the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing the forgiveness plan should be ruled "unlawful." These briefs will be heard in the country's highest court via oral arguments on Feb. 28. McConnell criticized the move this week on X, formerly Twitter, calling it a slap in the face to those who had already paid off their loans and made considerable professional and personal sacrifices to avoid student debt. President Bidens inflation is crushing working families, and his answer is to give away even more government money to elites with higher salaries, the GOP leader said in his statement. Heres how this latest wave of student debt relief will work. SAVE-ing struggling borrowers The SAVE plan aims to help borrowers who are more likely to struggle with repaying their loans. According to the Department of Education (DoE), the majority of federal student loan borrowers in default originally borrowed $12,000 or less, hence that being the eligibility criteria for this wave of SAVE plan relief. For every $1,000 borrowed over the $12,000 threshold, those enrolled in SAVE will get relief after an additional year of payments. For example, if you borrowed a $14,000 federal loan, you can get your student debt wiped out after making payments for 12 years. Story continues The DoE estimates this fresh batch of relief will help nearly 153,000 borrowers with almost immediate effect. Others, who are eligible for early relief, but not yet enrolled in the SAVE plan, will receive a reminder from the DoE to sign up as soon as possible. It is worth doing because all borrowers on the SAVE plan are in line to receive debt forgiveness after 20 or 25 years, depending on whether you have loans for graduate school. Ongoing fight for debt cancelation The Biden administration has now approved loan relief for nearly 3.9 million borrowers and according to Cardona: Our historic fight to cancel student debt isnt over yet. Washingtons latest $1.2 billion debt wipe out follows a huge announcement on Feb. 15 whereby President Biden proposed expanding student debt forgiveness to those facing financial hardship and giving the DoE the power to define that hardship. The administration also wiped out $4.9 billion in student loan debt for 73,600 borrowers in January, by making fixes to the income-driven repayment (IDR) forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs. U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal said millions of student loan borrowers are counting on the Biden administration to fix the broken student loan system and provide the forgiveness they earned and have been waiting for. He said the new SAVE plan relief demonstrates President Bidens ongoing commitment to student debt cancellation. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Transparency Market Research The number of dogs kept as pets in residential settings is being driven by an increase in dog ownership for companionship and the close relationship that exists between pets and their owners. Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Feb. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc. - The global dog dental chews market was projected to attain US$ 398.8 million in 2022. It is anticipated to garner a 7.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2031 and by 2031, the market is likely to attain US$ 765.4 million by 2031. Dog dental chews are designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease, by cleaning the dog's teeth and massaging the gums. Dogs that don't take care of their teeth well might develop cavities, discolored teeth, jaw fractures, swollen or bleeding gums, and foul breath, among other health issues. For regular dental care, it's essential to incorporate dental chews into your dog's daily routine. Dog dental chews come in a variety of flavors and varieties, such as dental bones, dental sticks, dental treats, and more. Dog dental chews are becoming increasingly popular since these dental treatments are available in a variety of tastes, such as chicken and seafood. Download sample PDF copy of report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=85951 Key Findings of the Market Report Over the past three decades, dog ownership has increased globally, particularly in the United States. This trend is influenced by several aspects of the overall economy, such as household income and home ownership. According to the national pet owners' study conducted by the American Pet Products Association, Inc. (APPA) in 20232024, 86.9 million homes, or 66% of American households, are pet owners. The number of dog owners is increasing as a result of the growing desire for dogs as companion animals. The bond between humans and their pets has developed into a more complex relationship over time. Since dog dental chews help dogs maintain good oral hygiene, the market demand for these goods is predicted to rise along with the number of people who own dogs and the amount of money spent on their care. Story continues Market Trends for Dog Dental Chews The dog dental chews market is segmented by product type, which comprises dental bones, dental sticks, dental treats, and others (chunks, etc.). In 2022, the dental bones category accounted for the biggest proportion. Since dental bones help clean teeth and gums, they are a superior alternative for maintaining a dog's dental health. Chewing on dental bones reduces the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and foul breath by eliminating plaque and tartar from teeth. Veterinarians advise using dental chews to treat and manage dental problems in dogs. Dental chews provide several advantages, such as removing tartar and plaque, massaging the gums to ease inflammation, and treating foul breath. As a result, over the projected period, there should be plenty of profitable prospects in the dog dental chews market due to the increased awareness of canine oral health. Request for Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=85951 Global Market for Dog Dental Chews: Regional Outlook In 2022, North America accounted for a major proportion. The market for dog dental chews in the region is anticipated to increase because to a rise in pet ownership, a rise in disposable income, and increased awareness of tooth health concerns. In the United States, 65.1 million households had a pet in 20222023. The number of dogs in Canada has increased steadily, rising from 7.7 million to 7.9 million between 2020 and 2022. Growing numbers of veterinary clinics and hospitals are contributing to an increase in pet health awareness. In June 2022, 6,080 firms were employed in Canada's veterinary services industry. These companies comprised surgical facilities, testing labs, animal hospitals and clinics, and veterinary services for animals. These are encouraging indications that should increase the popularity of dog dental chews. Global Dog Dental Chews Market: Key Players The vast majority of players are investing heavily in new product launches, business acquisitions, and portfolio expansion. The following companies are well-known participants in the global dog dental chews market: Bernie's Best Inc. Boehringer Ingelheim ElleVet Sciences Gnawlers InClover Research Mars Inc. Nestle Purina Pets Empire Virbac SA Zesty Paws Key developments by the players in this market are: Nestle Purina PetCare planned to purchase Red Collar Pet Foods, a Miami, Oklahoma-based company, from Arbor Investments in February 2023. The Miami plant will expand Purina's internal capacity for the creation and production of cutting-edge dog and cat treats. It will become the 22nd Purina owned and operated facility nationwide. Zesty Paws debut in the dental pet market in November 2022 with the release of the new all-in-one functional dental bones. The dental bones offer major benefits for the health of the immune system, gums, joints, oral cavity, and skin and coat when they are prepared with Cargill's EpiCor Pets in combination with sweet potato flour, turmeric, and cinnamon. The ridges on the dental treats promote proper oral hygiene, help prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar, and provide fresh breath. Global Dog Dental Chews Market Segmentation By Product Type Dental Bones Dental Sticks Dental Treats Others (Chunks, etc.) By Ingredient Type Anti-bacterial Conventional By Age Group Junior Adult Senior By Application Residential Commercial Veterinary Hospitals Pet Care Centers Others By Distribution Channel Online E-commerce Websites Company Owned Website Offline Veterinary Stores Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Specialty Stores Other Retail Stores Region North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa Buy this Premium Research Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=85951